Kakuto: Well... this is awkward...
Kakuto:*Inner Monologue* Now I know what your thinking, How the hell did I get myself in this situation?... at least that's what I think you're asking yourselves. Well, I'll tell you anyway.
After yesterday's event had transpired the student council as ordered by the Director to pick up the step-siblings and showed them around while they were at it.
Chrysti: I'm surprised the Director himself picked you up. Said while walking to the final destination of the tour.
Kakuto: Yeah. And I got to say, for a manhandling a team that basically has the fate on the world on their hands. He is surprisingly laid back.
Detsuya: That's the Director for you.
Musagen: Guys useful as a bag of potatoes. (Can't think of an insult)
Chrysti: Now, now be nice. Anyways this will be your team's dorm. Your teammates have already been situated so why don't you go in and make yourself at home.
Kakuto: Yes, please!!!
Kakuto hurriedly opens the door stumbling on the door until he finally opened the door.
Kakuto: *wide eyes* Oh. Oh No!!!
???: I keep telling you that's not... A... toy
Silence... awkward like really awkward silence between the two.
???2: You must be our teammates come in I'll help you unpack.
Shizuha: *recomposed* oh, right.
???3: *looks between them* You know what I'm actually kinda hungry right now sooooo... brb.
He said as he left the two in their own world.
Kakuto: Soooo... how have yo-
???: Save it!
Kakuto: Wait! I-
But she marched away angrily.
Kakuto: *thoughts* Just what does it take for you to forgive me?
I grabbed my bag from outside and went to a vacant room. I went inside one of the rooms, and I was greeted by a nice and comforting warmth when I entered. There was an oakwood table with a desk lamp, next to it was a nightstand with three drawers, and finally the bed. The bed was a nice single-person bed, with two pillows, and a big blanket, and on top of my bed was the school uniform.
A Maroon coat and pink vest with black trousers and maroon necktie
Kakuto: Huh, so now they decided to give us our uniform
I put away my stuff and went to put on the uniform and went to class.
Timeskip
Kakuto: Nothing's good enough. Said as he slammed his head on the table.
Sanji: Why the long face bud? He slid his chair next to his desk
Kakuto: It's Junko.
Sanji: Junko Kurenai? Man...you really do have interesting tastes.
Kakuto: It's not that. He sat upright and faced Sanji We've been friends for a long time. She was like a sister to me.
Sanji: what happened?
Kakuto: Well...it happened a long time ago...
Flashback (KakutoNarration)
We were 5 at that time, we lived in the mountains Practicing... Arts
Sanji: like Martial Arts
Kakuto: Kinda but no
We have the best memories with each other and there was not a single day without her by my side. We were basically prodigies in the Arts so no one could keep up with us except each other, but that didn't stop the family from taking me in.
Sanji: You say 'the' family, shouldn't you say you're family?
Kakuto: They were in a way, but they weren't my actual Parents. I was Adopted.
Sanji: Man, that's rough
Kakuto: It was rougher when we first met
It was a rainy night and like most kids without a home that is hungry, we beg for food, and if we can't beg we scavenge for food. I kept going street-per-street, alley-per-alley until I saw a big building on top of a mountain.
Kid Kakuto: Hey! Mister, what's that building over there?
Stranger: What building? Are you on something, kid?
Kid Kakuto: No, I'm sorry
I asked some more but they all saw the same thing, there was no building. No one saw what I'm seeing, determined to get to the bottom of it. I decided to investigate, and maybe they might have some food.
I walked to the building following the stone staircase
Kid Kakuto: Convenient
After I made it to the top I looked around the facility and found no one, I then tried the front door but the handle was too high for me to reach so I find another way in. I went to the back and found a window leading to the kitchen climbed on and I looked at what was cooking. Fish, steak, rice, chicken a complete feast. My stomach began rumbling starving for food, seeing no one around I was about to eat until I stopped myself
Kid Kakuto: No! This isn't right
I pulled my arm back and climbed back out, or I was until she came in. She barged in the kitchen and kicked me in the side causing some kitchenware to go all over the place.
Kid Junko: what are you doing here!? In fact, don't talk at all.
We then began brawling making a mess in the kitchen, she initiated first by going for my liver so I did my best to defend myself. The outcome was expected, I was destroyed face bruised possible cracked ribs, and cuts on my clothes.
Trying to make space I backflipped into the cooking range and began running, I then grabbed the exhaust vent at kicked her in the face, I dropped down and began going on the defensive, I kept throwing haymakers targeted at her center mass or the head. She counter-attacked by tripping me and pushed me to the ground but on instinct, I grabbed her arm and clamped my legs on her neck executing a triangle choke.
???: Enough!! A massive voice exclaimed
Kid Junko: Master! There was an intruder and I-
Kid Kakuto: She attacked me, I was just gonna leave until she just beat me up!
Kid Junko: Liar!! He was trying to eat the meal we prepared for the Grandmaster.
Kid Kakuto: Grandmaster?
???2: what's all this noise about?
Then a man with a very long beard and all-black kimono with Shiny Red accents
Master and Kid Junko: Grandmaster
The old guy and Junko hurriedly kneeled down at the Grandmaster's presence, he scanned the room until he laid his eyes on me.
Grandmaster: Young man, how did you find this place?
Kid Kakuto: Well... I was out looking for food until I saw this big building on the mountains
Master: That's impossible! No one has able to find this place it has been well hidden with Ninpuu arts!
Kid Kakuto: Well it's kinda hard to miss a big building on a big mountain
Grandmaster: You have managed to look past the invisible barrier that is cast on the shrine? Isn't that Impressive, Master Junpe
Master Junpe: Yes Grandmaster, I will admit it is.
Grandmaster: Then how about it young man, Do you want to join our clan
Kid Kakuto: Can I really!?
Grandmaster: *chuckle* Yes, You can really.
Kid Kakuto: But is it really a good idea for me, what if the others won't like me...?
Grandmaster: Nonsense!! In this clan, we are all family
Kid Kakuto: Family
He pondered as tears began dripping
Grandmaster: *grabs Kakuto's shoulder* Yes young man, Family.
Kid Kakuto: wipes tears I'll join!!
Grandmaster: Excellent! Come, walk with me
The Grandmaster then took me around the building and he requested that everyone should gather in the main hall. When we looked around there were people training, practicing arts.
Kid Kakuto: That looks so cool!!!
Grandmaster: And you can do that too!
Kid Kakuto: Really!?
Grandmaster: Yes. You have great potential and with the right training, you would be a strong warrior.
After the tour we headed to the main hall, there we were met by a lot of eyes and 3 people standing in front of the crowd, one is a middle-aged man his sleeves are tucked and his black robe loosely tied and wearing a white cloak that says 武器 in Scarlet, the other one looks to be in his prime age, he is the opposite of the first one, his clothes and hair is well kept and he also wears a white cloak but it says 忍術 in Green and the last one is a bit older than the first one, he holds a staff on his right and has a white beard a bit longer than the Grandmaster, he wore a white robe instead of black and a black cloak that says 風の道.
Grandmaster: Master Bukido, Master Heiji, Master Jinpen.
Heiji, Bukido, Jinpen: Grandmaster.
Heiji: Master, may I ask why we are summoned here?
Grandmaster: This child, will be joining our family said as Master Jinpen looked at the boy
Bukido: Are you sure that's a wise idea, Grandmaster!?
Jinpen: I see why you chose this young one, Grandmaster. Said as he strokes his beard
Grandmaster: Ahh, so you see it as well Master Jinpen?
He nods in reply
Heiji: Then may I ask how he manages to find this place?
Grandmaster: Young man, tell them what you told me.
Kid Kakuto: I was just looking for food until I saw this place on top of the mountain.
Heiji: Impossible, how did you find the royal shrine when it's encased in an invisible barrier?
Kid Kakuto: Well it's kinda hard to miss a building this big
Heiji: I've been bested...by a child
Heiji dropped to the ground in sorrow
Bukido: Hahaha, Then this shows how far you can still go until you master your craft. He smacked Heiji's back
Heiji: I suppose I still have a lot to learn. Very well, I'll accept his enlistment
Bukido: If the Grandmaster says Yes then so do I!
Jinpen: *nod*
Grandmaster: Then it's settled. You are now a part of the family.
Kid Kakuto: I don't have any
Grandmaster: How about Kakuto?
Kid Kakuto: Kakuto?
Grandmaster: Your name, Kakuto. Do you like it?
Kid Kakuto: I love it!
I was so happy that the Grandmaster gave me a name. It made me feel like I was truly part of a family
Flashback end
Sanji: so that's how you got your name?
Sanji said as he took a bite of his lunch
Kakuto: yep, that's how. I'm still grateful to this day
He said as he took his
Sanji: so what about the rest of the clan. How were you living with them affected you?
Kakuto: It's not easy if that's what your asking
Flashback
My stay there was awful not to mention the training they gave me. Master Bukido immediately starred me of with sword fighting, and you will not feel pain in your life when you've been whacked multiple times by a bamboo sword.
Bukido: Again!!
He commanded as his trainee's swung their sword
Trainee's: Ha!
Bukido: Again!!
Trainee's: Ha!
I arrived just as the training started
Bukido: Kakuto! Your late!!
Kid Kakuto: I'm sorry Master Bukido
Bukido: 30 swings!! I want them strong and fast, you hear me Kakuto!!
Kid Kakuto: Yes Master!!
*crash*
At the back, Junko manage to break her training dummy with her bamboo sword still intact
Bukido: Great work Junko!!
Mastering the art is the same thing however its more of an elemental pain.
Kid Kakuto: *whoosh* Argh!!
Heiji: Concentrate, Kakuto! Lose focus, and the cast will be unstable.
Kid Kakuto: Yes master
I dusted myself off and began concentrating on forming a ball made of wind, but it failed again. Meanwhile, Junko managed to fuse Water, Fire, Earth, and Wind together
Heiji: Magnificent work Junko
And don't get me started on Martial arts training
Jinpen: Empty your mind, open your heart, be one with your soul!!
I was sitting on a bed of hot coal and out of nowhere a hot rod was pressed against me cauterizing my skin and breaking my meditation.
Jinpen: You must not let outside forces hinder you from your connection with your spiritual self, take Junko for example
Junko is seen submerged in a pool of ice-cold water while having stacks of bricks on top of her head getting taller and taller.
A few days after that I overheard voices talking about me
???: We just don't understand how you saw potential in him Grandmaster
???2: Yes, he hasn't shown any talent nor have the skills to even stay here
Grandmaster: Then maybe traditional methods cannot reach him
???2: Grandmaster he's a failure!!
This news shocked me to the core, instead of running away I decided to listen more to what they are saying.
???: Heiji's right Grandmaster, he's been slacking and shows no motivation in his training.
Heiji: It's the same from my class, like Master Bukido's training he has shown no potential at all. Maybe it was a fluke that he found this place.
Having enough I ran away, away from the place I thought I could call home, I didn't care who I ran passed I just kept running.
When I got outside instead of running to the courtyard, I ran to what looks like a garden. What I saw in the middle was a big Tree taller than any normal tree. Having no place to be I climbed to the highest branch I could climb and just sat there.
Days turn to weeks ever since I sat on the tree. Because here I felt at peace that no-one can harm me, I wish I just know what this tree is
???: The Beacon of Heaven
Kid Kakuto: Oh, Master Jinpen I didn't see you there
Jinpen: You haven't been training lately so I came looking for you.
Kid Kakuto: Master Jinpen, Do I really have the potential to be as great as them
Jinpen: To tell you the truth sonny me and the Grandmaster never really saw potential in you...
Said as he sat down below Kakuto
Kid Kakuto: So I really am a failure
Jinpen: Let me finish!
Kid Kakuto: Sorry master
Jinpen: The Grandmaster and I didn't saw potential, we saw change
Kid Kakuto: Change?
Jinpen: Indeed, young one
Kid Kakuto: But what am I changing
Jinpen: why, the whole clan of course
Kid Kakuto: But how!? How can I change something that I don't even know the basis of?
Jinpen: Come down, let's talk.
I then dropped down to Master Jinpen as he drew two figures in the soil
Jinpen: you see...This clan started many years ago, and with that came tradition. With that tradition, we grew our talents to something better than before. However, Times change and so must tradition, that is what the Grandmaster wants a fresh start, he has noticed that the old ways can't always be the best option.
*he then points his staff to Kakuto*
Jinpen: You can change that.
Kid Kakuto: But what about Junko? Isn't she the change you all wanted?
Jinpen: Junko is a prodigy, she was born into the clan therefore it is expected for her to exceed in her age. You however joined the clan by external means
Kid Kakuto: Then how could I change the old ways, Master if I don't even have what it takes to even learn it
*bonk*
Kid Kakuto: ow!
Jinpen: You are looking at this differently Kakuto. It's not about learning the past for you to change its future, it's what you could do now to make the future. A future you want
That's what he said before standing up and continuing on his regular duties.
Kid Kakuto: My future
Jinpen: There will be an annual tournament in a few months showcasing what the students have learned and the placement in rakings. If you want to have a foothold there's your chance
Watching him leave something sparked inside of me, Motivation. I then began my training to meet the expectations they have set for me.
I kept thinking about what I could change to be beneficial to the clan until I remembered what Grandmaster said with Master Bukido and Heiji
Grandmaster: Then maybe traditional methods cannot reach him.
Kid Kakuto: Tradition...what part in my time here had Tradition been influenced. The Arts, I got it!!
Now I learned what I have to practice. At the start, I learned the basic Ninpuu Arts. Simple ones like casting a fireball and water whips, to earth prisons and a dragon made of Fire!!!
While learning I stumble across a weird book that I haven't come across.
Kid Kakuto: Science 4 kids?
Intrigued by the color of the book I decided to bring it with me to study.
Kid Kakuto: Argh!! I can't get this at all, why does the explanation so complicated
I pulled countless all-nighters just to study each art with its over-the-top explanation, "Form a canceling eruption sign while performing the ignition stance and pronounce the incantation 'Let the flames of the flame dragon burn thy enemies, Volcanic Belch'" . I was about to take a break until I remembered the weird book I came across, I begrudgingly read it as I was amazed at how simple it is
Kid Kakuto: Fire is the rapid oxidation of a material in the exothermic chemical process of combustion, releasing heat, light, and various reaction products.
Kid Kakuto: Flames consist primarily of carbon dioxide, water vapor, oxygen, and nitrogen
3rd POV
Now armed with the new knowledge he then began visualizing, but rather than doing the way the scrolls have taught students for generations, he decided to visualize on how fire is made and make it form in the palm of his hand. He then felt a warm sensation on his palm, when he opened his eyes...
Kakuto found a ball of blue flame in his hand
Kid Kakuto: I did it, Yeah!!!
Kakuto then began relearning each Art from beginning to end. He found out he could cast Ninpuu Arts without doing any incantations or signs. He could not do however do any Heavenly Dragon Arts due to it being impossible to replicate. He did however found out that he could use talismans as a way to bypass it by having the incantation on the talisman while exposing it to the element Kakuto wanted thus performing most of the Heavenly Dragon Arts, the only thing left is to test it.
While Kakuto was experimenting with the talismans Master Jinpen has finished his duties and was about to check up on Kakuto, he heard materials falling in the room so he decided to check in on his pupil
Jinpen: Having trouble Young Kakuto?
As Master Jinpen entered the room, he was met by a Blue flamed Dragon facing Kakuto in all his glory, the master couldn't help but be awestruck by the boys' achievements
Kid Kakuto: Yes It worked!! It...worked
Kakuto said before collapsing
When Kakuto passed out the dragon disappeared shaking awake Master Jinpen from his awed expression, after he recomposed himself he went to Kakuto and see him sound asleep
Jinpen: You manage to pull something like this off in a few days when it took others decades to even perform such a feat. You really outdid yourself this time
Kid Kakuto: *snore*
Jinpen: *chuckle* Rest now boy. You have earned it
After Master Jinpen layed Kakuto down on a nearby bed, he walks over to his workplace and saw scattered notes and talismans all over the desk even some post-it notes on the wall all either contain formulas or incantations
Timeskip (Kakuto POV)
Kid Junko: I'll say this to you now, drop out
Kid Kakuto: What? Afraid you'll lose?
Kid Junko: it's the opposite really, I care about family and I'd rather not give them a bad time by making them face against you
Kid Kakuto: We'll see when we fight each other in the finals.
Kid Junko: We'll see
she said before walking away
Kid Kakuto: You have a crush on me, don't you?
Kid Junko: *blush* What!!? No!!
Kid Kakuto: Yeah, sure
Kid Junko: *Grrr*
My first opponent against the best pupil in Master Bukido's class, next to Junko at least. I forgot his name, not like it matters anyway.
Fighter 1: Well, well, well...if it isn't the shrimp. So you didn't listen to Junko?
Kid Kakuto: is that a problem?
Fighter 1: No, I'll just have to mop the floor with you
He then pulled out a massive greatsword from his back and took his stance, while I took out a kunai from my back pocket and twirled it around my finger.
Fighter 1: Is that your weapon? Get real! Use a real weapon!!
Kid Kakuto: no, this will be enough
Fighter 1: Ok,
he then dashed towards me
Fighter 1: Don't say I didn't warn you!!
He dashed to me so fast that the ground from where he was cracked, when he reached me he swung his sword near my head at lightning speeds, but I just tilted back completely missing me.
Fighter 1: You dodged my attack, not bad. Let's see what you can do!
He turned to me and had his sword ready to block whenever and wherever I strike. Sad to say that I had a trick up my sleeve.
I twirled my kunai a bit more before reeling it back, I then dashed up to him, aiming for his center mass. He grew a wide grin and blocked my attack
Kid Kakuto: Predictable
I then infused my kunai with lightning as I dashed through him, leaving a trail of purple lightning and a loud thud signifying that he was unconscious.
The crowd's jaws were dropped as the weakest member of the clan had just taken down one of the strongest pupils of Master Bukido's class. The announcer was awed for a bit before recomposing and stated the winner
Announcer: Winner: Kakuto!!
Rather than being met with claps and cheers, I was met with whispers and speculated looks. However, I paid them no mind as I went back to my waiting room for my next fight.
Junko manage to take down her oppositions two rounds ago with her Heaven dragon: fire breath and Lotus style: Ameragi
Kid Kakuto: Fascinating, well my turn on the big stage.
Announcer: In the Northern section of the ring, he has defeated the mighty sword of Escalon. Please welcome Kakuto
It's safe to say I got nothing but silence
Announcer: and in the South section we hav-
Kid Kakuto: *Thought* You know I haven't really thought about how they manage to get an announcer while being really secretive.
Announcer: He has full remarks and has mastered 2 element ty-
Kid Kakuto: I wonder what the outside looks right now
Announcer: Please welcome.
Kid Kakuto: *thought* I really want to go to that tall thing in the distance, it's so bright during nighttime. Wonder how they built it that high
???: Are you paying attention?
I heard a voice in front of me say
Arrogant man: Such incompetence no wonder your the weakest among us, do you have anything to say for yourself.
Kid Kakuto: My butt is really itchy
Arrogant man: You mongrel! I'll show you your place!! Crimson pillar: incinerate and burn my enemies to ashes!!
He cast as three magic circles form in front of his hand with one slightly bigger one holding the three in place in a form of a triangle. Then a pillar made of fire was coming towards me, I imagined a mirror in front of me and it manifested before me essentially stopping the attack, while taking the attack I decided to angle the mirror to the right my a millimeter and watched as the pillar of flames is deflected back to him.
Finishing things quickly I imagined a rope made of lightning and watched as it manifests before me. I whipped it around my opponent and tighten it so he couldn't move
Kid Kakuto: conceit?
Arrogant man: Not to the likes of yo- *shock* grrr-grrr-grrr
I stoped when he dropped to the floor unconscious, giving me another win
Kid Kakuto: *thought* I'm coming for you Junko
I then went back to my waiting room for the finals.
Finals(3rd POV)
Kid Junko: so this is it? Now I don't know how you made it this far, just know that I won't hold back.
Kid Kakuto: That's what I expect. I'll be doing the same.
The two then took their stances eager to prove that they are better.
Announcer: Fighters ready...Fight!!
Kid Junko: Fire dragon: pay heed, and burn those who oppose me!
She cast as a dragon head formed and breathed fire in Kakuto's direction. He wastes no time as he dashed away from her attack
Kid Junko: You won't get away!!
She drew her wakizashi from her back as she engulf it in flames, Kakuto reciprocate as he drew his kunai as he engulf his in lightning meeting her blade in the middle.
Kid Junko: A kunai? You idiot, take this seriously!!
She exclaimed as she overpowered Kakuto, forcing him to jump back.
Kid Junko: If you won't take this seriously, I will!!
She then began doing three hand signs in quick succession.
Kid Junko: Come noble dragon, Renkai!!
Junko bit her thumb and infused it with fire and slammed her bitten hand to the ground, and in mere seconds the ground began shaking and cracks began appearing. The ground then erupted and out flew the noble dragon, Renkai
Kid Kakuto: Woah! Ok, time to get serious as well
Kakutothrew aside his kunai and reached to his back pocket and pulled out a blue talisman with the words Summon: Lion written on it
Kid Kakuto: Come, Senki!!
He held his talisman high calling out his summon. Then a massive wave of water appeared behind him, followed by a massive roar of a Lion. The height of the wave began dropping to give a clear view of a lion standing atop the wave.
It roared once more before riding down the wave and jumping to its master's side standing proud against the massive dragon.
Kid Kakuto/Junko: Sick 'em/take care of them
With the command of their masters, they jumped each other meeting in the middle. Senki initiated by clawing the dragon before biting near the head. Renkai retaliated by tail whipping the lion before biting its side and dragging it to the ground.
After a few seconds, Senki broke free from Renkai and clawed him away gaining space. They walked around each other growling at each other before running around as they took their battle to the skies.
Kid Kakuto: Well that wasn't the outcome I was expecting.
Kakuto quipped as he barely dodged a kama aimed for his head. The kama's chain was pulled back by Junko as she twirled it around her while staying low to the ground
Kid Junko: Were not done!
Kid Kakuto: We really aren't
He pulled out a scroll and unrolled it with one hand before becoming a katana. He held the katana and secured it on his back horizontally, he pulled out his blade and took his stance facing Junko.
The two were battling each other at rapid speeds as they reached every part of the arena, but the two kept going showing no signs of stopping. They meet in the middle once again but this time locking their weapons in place
Kid Junko: Why did you hide it?
Kid Kakuto: Hide what?
Kid Junko: Don't play dumb, you just did Ninpuu that no one in the clan had ever done. How come you did it like it's nothing?
Kid Kakuto: I don't know...I visualize?
Kid Junko: ...That's it? You visualized? Do you know how stupid that is!?
Kid Kakuto: That's all that I did I promise.
Junko then kicked off him creating space as she wore an enraged expression
Kid Junko: That's it!! I'll beat you quickly. Ninpuu Overdrive!!
She shouted as her flames grew intensely. This is her Phantasma, it allows her to increase her damage output tenfold while also increasing her stats. She then made three more hand signs and unleashed a big streak of fire at Kakuto
Kid Junko: Ninpuu Burn Art: Flame Streak Pillar!!
Kakuto then out of instinct put his hands up trying his best to protect himself from her attack. Before the attack reached him, however, there was a chain that has been broken from inside of Yin as if he unlocked something from within himself.
The attack finally reached Kakutoas he braced himself for the pain he'll receive
*shatter*
The attack was negated the spell shattered like glass
Kid Junko: What!? How is that possible!?? Huh?
Junko looked at Kakuto strangely until she notices something wrong with him. His eyes were yellow and have a gold marking on the right side of his face.
Kakuto? Then rushed Junko and being forced into hand-to-hand combat. Anytime they found an opening they manage to exploit it exchanging blows while at it.
Kakuto's Mindscape
Kakuto is seen waking up in a garden filled with blue flowers
Kid Kakuto: where am I?
Kakuto looked around the place figuring out where he went.
???: beautiful aren't they?
Kakutoturned around to meet the voice and was met by a man in an all-black tuxedo, like one from a royal family sitting at a two-person table sipping tea
Kid Kakuto: yes they really are, But can you tell me where I am?
???: You're in your mind, the mind that I inhabited for the moment. Tea?
Kid Kakuto: Sure, I guess...
Kakuto then sat down on the chair that was vacant as the figure poured him a cup of tea
Kid Kakuto: But if I'm here, then what's happening to my body?
???: Currently fighting in your stead
One of the flowers then grew at a rapid pace, which then projected a video of Kakuto still fighting Junko though having a bit of trouble due to her attacks being negated
Kid Kakuto: Wow! How am I doing that!?
???: This is your power...well a fraction of it.
Kid Kakuto: A fraction?
???: Indeed, however, soon enough you will unlock its full potential.
Kid Kakuto: Then...Can I ask who you are?
???: I am not of importance as of yet, but I have a feeling that one day we'll meet again.
The figure said as everything around them including themselves are turning into blue particles
???: Looks like our time together was ended
he said as he took one last sip from his teacup
???: and remember "you are made for great things in your life, you just have to search for it"
The figure bid as they are about to be engulfed by a white light
???: Now I believe you have a competition to win
This snaps Kakuto back to reality and faced the figure one last time
Kid Kakuto: I won't let you down, I promise to be better than I could ever imagine.
???: I know you will the figure then placed his hand on the boy's shoulder. Walk tall young one
The figure said before being engulfed by the light bringing him back to reality
Real-world
Kakuto and Junko attacked simultaneously launching themselves back, Kakuto then groggily stood up and recover for a bit
Kid Kakuto: Why don't we end this already?
Hearing Kakuto speak she stood up in pain as she finds her footing.
Kid Junko: Took the words right out of my mouth.
The two then whistle to get the attention of their summons. Hearing their masters calling them, they left their feud and hurriedly went to their master's side
Junko then put her hands in front of her then swung her arms from left to right, before jumping high in the air with Renkai following her
Kakuto looked at Senki as they nod at each other knowing what Senki's master is planning on doing. Senki took a few steps back and prepare for a roar, as Kakuto backflipped to Senki. When Kakuto is near Senki's head height, Senki then let out a strong roar which erupted a Geiser from its mouth towards Junko.
When Kakuto's speed began to decrease he fixes his form into a kick toward Junko as she twirled in the air with Renkai flying around her as she twirled before settling behind her.
Once she finishes her spin she put one foot outward as Renkai blast a wave of fire that exploded behind Junko causing Her to speed towards Kakuto meeting his kick halfway.
The wave of fire and water from their kicks caused a large amount of steam to form as the audience was on the edge of their seats eager to see who won the fight.
Two bodies flopped to the ground at the same time both equally hurt as they exhausted all of their stamina forcing the match to a draw.
Flashback end
Sanji: Man, what an epic fight!! Wish I could've seen it.
Kakuto: Yeah, that might have been the toughest fight I have ever been in as a kid.
Sanji: So is that the reason why she keeps avoiding you?
Kakuto: No, in fact, I was as confused back then
Flashback (Kakuto narrative)
You see, after the fight seeing as though I "beat" Junko and she "beat" me, the Grandmaster decided that we were the best in the clan.
Sanji: so she's mad because you also get to be the best?
Kakuto: Can you let me finish?
Sanji: sorry...hehe
She wasn't mad at me for beating her nor was she mad because I get to be the best with her. In fact, she was surprisingly neutral to me.
Sanji: define neutral
Well, for one she helps me when I needed it not in the way with the others but enough to show a bit of hospitality to me
Each day we trained if were not training we're running errands from the Grandmaster. I wouldn't say that she finally opened up to me, more like accepted the Grandmaster's decision even the other masters accepted it as well with the show that I put out.
Sanji: so she was stuck up even though you both are strong?
Kakuto: A bit, not until that one faithful night...
(3rd POV)
On a stary night and a full moon, Junko sat on top of the shrine watching the stars. Kakuto is just rounding up a few tasks before heading to bed, he was about to hit the hay until he notices Junko watching the stars alone. Having thought of an idea he went to his room and brought something with him to the roof
Rooftop
Junko is looking at the night sky with a hint of sadness in her eyes not noticing Kakuto coming up. She heard plastic being rustled behind her, fearing an attack she turned around with her guard up but just saw Kakuto struggling to open a bag.
Kid Junko: *sigh* what do you want?
She said as she sat back down
Kid Kakuto: Well, I wanted to see how have you been. Have you eaten yet?
Kid Junko: Well as you can see I'm fine, and yes I've eaten so if you would jus- *growl*
Kid Kakuto: Well your stomach says otherwise said as Junko turned away and pouts
Kakutowalked up to her and lent her some of his snacks
Kid Kakuto: Pocky?
Junko was surprised as to why he's offering her some of his food.
Kid Kakuto: Come on, you haven't eaten right?
Junko hesitated a bit before reluctantly grabbing one and looking at it a bit. After Junko grabbed some Pocky he sat beside her and looked at the stars with her.
Kid Kakuto: Beautiful aren't they? Do you know there are billions of those out there? Who knew that each light billions of years away can bring many wonderful memories.
Kid Junko: I don't get it
Kid Kakuto: Well you see, the stars we see now are many lightyears away and 1 lightyear is very far so when someone say many lightyears it means its like a lon-
Kid Junko: Not that!! I don't get why are you being so nice to me, To all of us here. We treated you like scum, we didn't care about how you felt, we didn't care if you've eaten, we didn't even care that you existed!!
Junko then began tearing up while having an outburst
Kid Junko: We left you alone, not even batting an eye. The Masters didn't help you in fact they disgraced you instead of motivating you. Then didn't help you, they just embarrassed you!!
Kid Kakuto: Junko its fine-
Kid Junko: No it's not fine!!
She then put her knees to her chest and held onto her legs while holding the pocky
Kid Junko: Why...why don't you hate us, resent us. Why!!!?
Kakuto moved closer to Junko and hugged her while rubbing her arm
Kid Kakuto: because if not for all of you, I would never even be where I am now. You've all helped me so much and showed me such amazing things. Now come on eat, wouldn't want to wake up everyone because of your stomach, right?
Kakuto then gave Junko some space and looked at stars once more and ate his pocky while Junko looked at her hand where she holds the Pocky to see it crushed. Kakuto noticing Junko looking at the crushed Pocky he handed her another one and they enjoyed the stary night together
Kid Junko: Thank you, Kakuto.
Kid Kakuto: No problem, what are friends for right?
Kid Junko: Friends?
Kid Kakuto: Yeah, friends! That's what friends do, we help and forgive each other. We always tell them what's wrong and never lie to them.
Kid Junko: Friends...so were Friends?
Kid Kakuto: yep!
He then sat up straight and looked at Junko
Kid Kakuto: Do you not want to?
Kid Junko: *shakes head* No, I do. Thank you...friend
She smiled as she ate her Pocky peacefully. Seconds turned to minutes as both of them were just mesmerized by the stars, their trance was interrupted by Junko asking a question that came out of nowhere.
Kid Junko: Hey, you'll stay with us forever right?
Kakuto was quiet, he looked down with his hair covering his eyes
Kid Junko: Hey, Kakuto. Your staying right?
Kid Kakuto: *shakes* huh? Sorry, must be tired from all the work
he stood up and headed down to his room
Kid Kakuto: You should sleep too. Good night.
Junko pondered whether if it was right to ask that from him as Kakuto grips his hands tightly as he forced himself to sleep.
Flashback end
Sanji: So you became friends, all because of Pocky?
Kakuto: Yep, one of the dumbest things I have ever done. I did it nonchalantly as well
Sanji: but why didn't you answer her question back then?
Kakuto: because...
Flashback (3rd POV)
Junko is seen walking to the Grandmaster's throne room, she was about to knock and walk inside until she heard a voice other talking to the grandmaster
???: I want to leave, Grandmaster
Kid Junko: that voice, it sounds like...
She whispered as she pressed her ear against the door
Grandmaster: can I ask why?
Kid Kakuto: It's just, after spending time here. I feel like it's not for me.
Grandmaster: I see. And what about Junko?
Kid Kakuto: what about her?
Grandmaster: well, you both seem to grow fond of each other, have you told her that you were leaving?
Kid Junko: he's leaving!?
She thought as her mouth began to quiver and tears about to fall
Kid Kakuto: No...I feel like I'll just burden her if I'm around
Kakuto and the Grandmaster heard crying near the door, as they looked they see Junko on her knees crying, seeing this shocked Kakuto afraid if she heard what him and the Grandmaster was talking about.
Kid Kakuto: Junko!
Kakuto tried to reach her but she ran away tears still falling from her face and something dark has manifested from within her.
Grandmaster: I'll have someone ready your things. Go to her, it looks like she needs you.
Kakuto looked back hesitantly at the Grandmaster but he only gave an assuring nod, which is enough for Yin to go to Junko's room
Junko's Bedroom door
Kid Kakuto: *knock* Junko!! Are you in there?
Kid Junko: Just leave me alone!! Isn't that what you were going to do!!!
Kid Kakuto: Listen, I-
Kid Junko: I don't want to hear it!!!
Kid Kakuto: Junko, just hear me out
Kid Junko: Just...leave me alone
There was silence between the two and the darkness within her grew
Kakuto placed his hand and head to the door, thinking if he should knock again. He settled by searching around his coat for something until he pulled out his last box of Pocky that he saved for the road. He placed it near the foot of the door and placed his hand on the door again, he steeled himself before knocking once again this time not saying anything. Kakuto took a few steps back waiting if she'll open the door, but there was no response making him believe that Junko shut him out for good.
Having no response from Junko, Kakuto then went to the gates where the Grandmaster, as well as master Jinpen, waiting for him
Kid Kakuto: Grandmaster, Master Jinpen! What are you doing here?
Jinpen: well I can't just let my best pupil leave without saying goodbye now can't I?
Kid Kakuto: *hug* I'll miss you Master Jinpen
Jinpen: *chuckle* I'll miss you too, young one.
Grandmaster: Remember what you learned here Kakuto. Let it be your guide to the future you desire.
Kid Kakuto: I will. Thank you Grandmaster *bow* for everything
Grandmaster: There is no need for gratitude. Now go and know that you are special, your time here proves that.
With those final words, Kakuto walked out the gates and into the outside world.
Meanwhile
Junko peaked through her door that she slightly opened and looked around. She stepped out only to kick something that was near her door, she looked down and see Kakuto's box of Pocky that he left her with a note on the front that says
I'm sorry :(
This broke Junko down again, falling to her knees and clutching the box close to her chest as she kept on crying as the darkness within her consumed her with a red light forming where her heart should be.
Flashback end (Kakuto POV)
Sanji: Damn, no wonder she's mad.
Kakuto: Yeah, it's all my fault.
Sanji: Hey, you just did what you think was right for you.
Kakuto: And in return hurt the only friend that was with me when I was a child.
Sanji: Listen, if you really want to set things straight with her. Go straight to the point, force her to listen and if she doesn't forgive you, then You'll just have to accept it.
Kakuto: If only it was that easy
We reached my team's dorm, so I bid him goodnight and went inside, to smell delicious.
Daniel: Hey we haven't introduced ourselves yet. My name is Daniel Blake and the one cooking is Oda Yakana
Oda: hello, dinner will be ready soon.
Kakuto: Hi, you guys met my sister Shizuha and I don't feel like eating right now
Shizuha: is something wrong, bro?
Kakuto: nothing serious. Is Junko here yet?
Daniel: No, but she'll be back soon.
And right on cue, she walked through the front door, she bats an eye at me before going straight to her room. I went to stop her but she just walked by me with hate in her eyes.
Daniel: Don't worry about her. She's like that with everyone.
Daniel tried to reassure me but I still feel a bit of regret in my chest.
Kakuto: I'm gonna head to bed, ok sis
Shizuha: Ok...
Daniel: but what abou-
I slammed my door at him and changed before going to bed clutching my pillow and forced myself to sleep awaiting the beginning of tomorrow.