A few hours prior.
An elderly couple walked side by side with another young couple.
The Elderly woman asked the other couple, "Ah. You two young lovebirds are you here for the sale at Sweet Night?"
The young man bowed and said courteously, "Yes grandmother. My wife and I are expecting a daughter and with how bad the prices are everywhere else, Sweet Night is the only place I trust and buy from. Now I heard they had a sale and of course I had to rush. In fact I'm sure many others from the various territories are arriving. So as soon as I heard, I brought my wife along."
The old man complained, "Ai. It's those damnable ministers and that wretched Emperor! Each and every day we are getting closer and closer to being shoved onto the roads and starving. The prices are rising like nobodies business and even the quality of life here has decreased greatly."
The young woman laughed, "My grandfather you seem to know alot about the Empire."
The old lady wrapped her arms around the old man's arm and said with a bright smile, "My darling here used to be a scholar in the finance division, he was praised as the golden goose because of how much money he managed to not only save, but also bring in."
The Old man puffed his chest out and waved his hand, "Ai. Don't talk about those times! That's nothing really. Anyway what's the point they sacked me as soon as they could and I was left without thanks or money. I didn't do it for money, but to think they would even steal my personal funds persecuting me on bribery charges. Even after removing the charges, I never got my money back. I had to make my wife and son suffer for many years because of that. I regret it alot."
The young man sighed and said, "Grandfather shouldn't regret, you should be proud of the effort and work you did. You are sadly not unique. My uncle was a general who was very talented and successful, but he was very provocative towards injustice. He reprimanded the Prime Minister openly and was unjustly executed! His own soldiers didn't say anything because they were bribed. To this day I find those former soldiers now old kneeling outside my family home, about how that moment of foolishness haunted them for life."
The old lady scornfully remarked, "There's no justice for the weak. The Powerful will from now till the end always exploit the weak and powerless, dragging us to our knees with cruel and unjust methods. There's no hope for us the Emperor won't do anything, and the Ministers and Scholars will keep bashing us."
The young woman patted her belly, her eyes strumming in confusion...
At that very moment a gigantic screen appeared overhead.
From the screen one could see a young man with pinkish white hair sitting in a room being reprimanded by those around him.
The old man tilted his head, "An attack on Suzaku? I haven't heard of this... Shouldn't a war notice have been released."
The young man on the other hand found his eyes shining. He exclaimed!
"That's Won! The Pavilion Master of Sweet Night and the new Lord of Toko! He is also the one who brought Ying to it's knees! I had the pleasure of drinking with him once, he gave me good advice! To think he would attack those bastards from Suzaku! Good! What a man! What a leader!"
As the people of Ito listened they understood this person who had attacked their Empires great and long Enemy was currently being reprimanded by those who were supposed to be his allies.
Yet many could understand. War was a difficult thing, lives weren't so cheap yet.
Yet then...
"If not for your incompetence would there be a need for me to make such a heavy handed move! If not for you all allowing another Empire to trance upon our land and do as they wish! If you all had showed even a slight bit of respect and consciousness towards the people, even doing a bit of your duty I would not need to make such drastic actions! You all are complaining about my actions when Suzaku is our enemy, it has stolen our lands and the food our children need! Maybe not now or tommorow, but someday this foolish inaction of yours would produce a shattered and torn Ito! You are people in charge of improving the lifestyle of our people, yet instead you focus on your own greed and status! Ministers poison our Empire with their troublesome attitude and behavior, the scholars tirelessly fund a segregation between the classes that is weakening our society! You all produce a result that is lacking and thus force our Empire into a stunted growth, ruining the Empire! Yet the one most at fault is the Emperor for his lack of a spine!"
That honest and powerful voice stirred a chord in all those who heard it.
...
As the Emperor flinched as he saw Won, Won's smile widened.
He stood up!
He looked around, his gaze like a sword pressing against their necks.
Won said, "Even if we are to go to war, it would not be a meaningless and worthless war! The ones who die on those bloodied fields are not simply dead people! No upon those scarred and brutal grounds, they live and die as Heros fighting not for power, not for pride or arrogance, not for the hearts of bitter wicked men! No they fight for the happiness and stability of their nation! For the joy and peace of those they love! You mistake what I fight for too easily, I am not some crooked old man! What I fight for is not for some power move! What I fight for is Ito rising to the sky!"
Perhaps the most wonderful and persuasive aspect of Won's speech was that it was all true. Everything he did was to bring Ito to the sky, never once did he imagine or wonder upon Ito crumbling down. Perhaps he envisioned a different Emperor upon the throne, but never once did he wish to see the suffering and pain of those of Ito.
Roars like that of heavy beats of a drum echoed outside!
Won stepped forward toward the Emperor.
Each step causing those around Won to shake.
Won finally reached the Emperor, his gaze like a noose around the Emperor's throat.
Won said, "I am not a good man, but I will lead our people towards a shining future! I can swear upon my life! I Won shall fetch the skies and stars, and pull them down. They shall become the roads upon which our people traverse!"
Won then turned, sweeping his robe he left the room.
He turned one final time, "I'll take it as you give me your support."
He smirked slightly.
The sun shone upon him.
As Won found his way to the entrance of the Palace, he saw hordes of people packed all alongside the small hill where the palace sat. From the children, to the elderly they all roared!
Won found something oddly awe inspiring of these people.
They seemed rather cool.
As they fought against those who should never be fought against. It was rather enchanting, and perhaps the charm of Humans.
Humans weren't good, but for the survival and well-being of their fellow man sometimes a few could surprise even the most cynical of Cruel Gods.
Yuna appeared at Won's side.
She wrapped her arm around his and said, "Well you were quite cool, you little trickster."
Won laughed, "I thought you would be angry."
She laughed similarly, "Why should I be angry. My man's accomplishments are just as much mine."
"How are my accomplishments yours? Go work harder to fetch your own meritorious deeds."
Yuna acted suprised, "You didn't know? Behind every great man is a greater woman. Hence I am the one who indirectly resulted in your success."
Won showed a - as if face.
Yuna then turned serious and looked away, "And also how could I be angry, when you did what I should have. You corrected my father and those horrid officials, your reasons may be complex, but I can see your genuine concern for the populace. You did what I should have, so all I can do is thank you."
Won signed, "Don't mention it. I'm sure even if you didn't say anything directly, you would work towards improving the lives of the people. You are someone who works hard in silence, willing to take the burden of hate. Yet I will make it so you are recognized for the kind and capable woman you are. Albeit quite foolish and cheeky."
Yuna chuckled.
Won then looked at the crowds of people and sighed again, "Perhaps I do not wish to see another person born the way I did. From the flames of wrath. Although I live my life for myself, not something worthless like revenge. That does not change my roots. I do not wish another child to live through the loss and pain I did. And Perhaps that desire unknowingly appeared in my methods. Although I cannot change the whole world, I will do my best to improve what is in my grasp."
Yuna stared at Won, her eyes twinkling, "Little fool. You are quite admirable."
She then leaned over and gave Won a kiss on his cheek.
"Thank you for telling me about your true self. I will await the day you tell me who you really are."
Won gazed back at her and laughed, "Ah you are really my style! Why don't we get married tommorow?"
...
Won was in his residence, currently working on some papers, when a knock rang at his door.
"Come in."
Ozaris entered.
Ozaris looked at Won and said, "Master. The attendant named Kiyomi, she has regularly taken days off and even snubbed some of her duties. I would like to get your permission to fire her."
Won's eyes peeked up, "Hm. Kiyomi... Ah that girl who had personal issues. Have you done a background check on her?"
Ozaris nodded and took out a file and handed it to Won.
Ozaris briefly described it, "She dosen't have anything out of the ordinary. Her father was a soldier and died many years ago. Her mother survived on her husband's pension, as well as working as a maid. Eventually she saved up enough money and bought a restaurant. She has an elder sister, and a nephew. The elder sister is married to an ordinary man. That's about it Master."
Won stood up and stretched, "Well I have nothing better to do today, things often are more complex that what we see. Furthermore I'd feel bad firing her if something was especially hard in her life."
Won appeared outside of a restaurant, it was quite small yet rather popular. Currently in disguise wearing a straw hat and a plain grey robe, Won stood in line for the restaurant.
Finally entering he was greeted by a middle aged lady, she had short black hair and wrinkles upon her face. Her hands were especially aged, with signs of wear and tear present all over. Clearly she had a harsh life.
She asked, "What would you like young man?"
Won perused the list in front of him and said, "Give me a bowl of rice, this spicy boiled chicken and this drink."
"Okay. Coming right up."
Won then found a place to sit and closed his eyes. His senses drifting in the wind throughout the establishment.
"Mother! Everyday big sister comes here bruised and beaten! Why can't we do anything! Why are we so useless!"
He heard Kiyomi's voice.
"What can we do! That stupid, stupid girl won't do anything! She just takes it! I would give my life up for her, but if she won't fight for herself what's the point!"
"How can you say that! I don't care what it takes I'll Protect her!"
"Now you mind yourself! You have a job in the Lords residence. Have a good life, work hard, don't live like me or your sister. Find something better."
"I don't care. Even if I get fired! I'll Protect my sister somehow!"
"Kiyomi! Please! Please don't make this harder for me! Seeing one daughter suffer is already horrible, yet you wish to throw yourself into flames aswell! No please don't!"
"Mom..."
"We'll talk later. I have food to serve."
Won's eyes peeked open. He sighed.
...
Won burped, as he covered his mouth.
The middle aged woman appeared by Won's side and said, "Did you enjoy your meal sir?"
Won nodded, "Hm. It was quite nice. The chicken was very good."
The woman said, "Thank you. Well the price is 100 silver."
Won nodded and took our ten gold.
The woman said, "Sir this is too much!"
Won smiled and said, "Please call your daughter."
The woman appeared stunned and asked nervously, "Who are you."
Won said, "Won."
"Won? Won! The lord!"
Won put a finger against his lips.
The woman dashed away and Kiyomi appeared in front of Won.
She bowed deeply and said, "I am sorry Lord for my incompetence!"
Won said, "Come take me to your sister."
Kiyomi was stunned.
Won said, "Well your business can be taken as my business. Well let us go."
...
Won was led to a neighborhood, most apparent was the random silence. Even with the warm and comfortable glow of the sun, and the cloudless sky, not a single child was out running as could be seen in other neighborhoods.
Trash littered the ground slightly and a uncomfortable oder filled one's nose.
Kiyomi said, "That is where my sister lives Lord."
Won nodded.
The two went up to the door, Kiyomi informed of their greeting and soon enough two people were kneeling before Won.
Won had learnt that Kiyomi's sister was in an abusive relationship with her husband. At first they were fine, but later her husband was laid off and ever since then he's become violent. He always had a bad temper yet only now did he actually beat Kiyomi's sister. Kiyomi's sister can't leave considering her husband had lots of dark connections and will probably get her hurt, and even reporting him to the authorities dosent matter considered they turn a blind eye or blame her. Eventually to protect her son she decided to stay and handle all the beatings, but everyday it gets worse. Furthermore he got a new job and the money from that means her son can go to a good school and get whatever he needs. She's hoping he'll become successful there and escape this horrible life.
...
Won looked at the couple kneeling.
The woman had bruises on her collar bone, her lip and cheek were swollen. Her foot dragged, and her chest moved unevenly.
The young boy leaning out of the corner, with dark bags under his eyes. A purple bruise on his chin, and his skinny boney hands.
Won looked at the sister of Kiyomi. He felt saddened, perhaps seeing his mother in this woman who endured thinking for her Child, and her weak child who wished to protect his mother yet couldn't.
Normally according to the law, Won had no right to actually do anything. Unless the one in question actually complained, what he was doing was beating a dead donkey. Furthermore it wasn't seen as good to engage and interact with other families affairs.
Won normally couldn't do anything, but bite his lip. similarly that's why Kiyomi couldn't do anything. Her sister was too scared for her son's sake.
Won nodded and then looked at Kiyomi's sister.
He turned towards Kiyomi and nodded.
Suprisingly Kiyomi had a shock appear on her face, as she saw that confident and prideful smile. As if he said I'll handle everything.
Won scratched his nose, and took a deep breath.
He amplified his voice with Qi.
"WHAT IS THAT MADAM? YOUR HUSBAND IS GAMBLING? DOES YOUR HUSBAND NOT KNOW THE LAW? UNDER OUR EMPIRES CONFUCIANISM DOCTRINE, GAMBLING IS FORBIDDEN! AI. LOOK AT THIS PUNK! NO RESPECT FOR THE ELDERS! LOOK AT HIS UGLY FACE, HE'S A BLOODY DISGRACE."
Won grabbed the husband by his collar and dragged him out.
"Ai! Look at this scumbag! You can just tell he's a bastard!"
Won made a big fuss, cussing and cursing the fellow making him seem like the worst criminal and worst degenerate in the world in the eyes of everyone who had rushed here in the chaos.
Kiyomi didn't know what Won was doing. Although gambling was illegal, it only cost a fine. At the end of the day he would be released and then... suddenly all sorts of women and men came close and asked Kiyomi's sister whether she was okay. When they saw the bruises they rushed to get help and when they saw the starving child, they hurriedly gave food.
Kiyomi's sister was shocked, everyone had known of her beatings yet they had always looked indifferently.
Yet now they were acting as a wall, a Protection and gave her strength she had long lost. Strength to care about herself.
She saw the concerned gazes of these people and realized, this wasn't living. She said it was all for their best interest, but it wasn't! Living under that man's Tyranny! No more!
The people around her said that they would stand beside Kiyomi's sister, and would beat this abuser out.
Won walked back slowly having given the man to a guard.
Kiyomi asked, "How did you...?
Won smirked, "Humans are delicate like that. And which normal bastard enjoys the Suffering of others. These Pathetic people were all to scared, yet when an opportunity showed they rushed to show their support. Some did it honestly, others a show of face. Either way, it helped your sister realize she has strength to fight."
Kiyomi smiled joyfully and said, "My lord you are as cunning as a fox! Yet you seem like someone who enjoys others suffering..."
Won looked pitifully, "Hey do I look like a villain? I'm a good guy! I can't stand injustice, so when I see a rotten asshole suffer, I enjoy it! Who wouldn't enjoy it. Why do you think people like public executions so much? Humans are deranged they just need an excuse, otherwise their morality and ethics gets in the way."
Kiyomi nodded, but asked, "My Lord, you talk as if you aren't human."
Won laughed, "Do I? Well I am of a demonic character."