In the teahouse a few hours ago,
"I see that you are well-informed of all the things that are happening in this world," Nagumo's alluring gaze descended towards the teapot on the table.
As Akari lifted the cup to her lips, she spoke softly, her voice tinged with a hint of wistfulness. "Only a few memories remain," she admitted, savoring the taste of the drink. "Throughout my years, I've roamed far and wide, venturing into countless places." She paused, reflecting on the advancements that had enhanced her biological brain, enabling her to absorb and preserve knowledge for centuries.
Yet, despite the remarkable neural enhancements she possessed, Akari couldn't escape the bittersweet truth. The experiences she had gathered over the years seemed like fragile wisps of recollection, fleeting moments that slipped through her grasp. The vastness of her travels and the wealth of information her brain held were no match for the fleeting nature of the human memory.
Sighing, she set down the cup, lost in the contemplation of all the stories and encounters that had slipped away like grains of sand. The weight of forgotten adventures lingered within her, a poignant reminder that even with enhanced abilities, time remained an unyielding force. The transient nature of her memories reminded her to cherish each passing moment, for they too would soon fade into the tapestry of her past.
"Regret fills the heart as we realize that those who once held us back, the places we've been, and the fleeting memories of the past are now nothing but a poignant tale." Nagumo replied.
As Akari gazed out of the window, her eyes filled with a mix of determination and reflection. "I had no regrets," she whispered, her voice carrying the weight of her convictions. She knew that every action she had taken to aid those in need had been worthwhile. Regret had no place in her heart when she had devoted herself to making a difference.
Her attention shifted to the gleaming mechanical blade resting nearby. Its presence served as a reminder of the battles fought with her past comrades and the sacrifices made. Memories, both bitter and sweet, intertwined with the metal that lay before her. But Akari understood that dwelling in the past would hinder her present and future. With a resolute nod, she acknowledged the truth in those words. The past was a chapter she had closed, and its hold on her had faded away. The person she had become now would not be burdened by the echoes of what once was.
As Nagumo raised the cup to his lips, he couldn't help but be captivated by the mysterious glow emanating from Akari's right hand. The soft illumination danced and flickered, casting a gentle light upon her features. It was a familiar, yet, ethereal sight and one that demanded her full attention.
"Let me see your hand," Nagumo's voice carried a gentle request. Akari extended her weathered, metallic right hand towards Nagumo and was caught in the grasp of her hands. She looked at both Nagumo's hands. She wondered how would it feel to press into those beautiful, yet, fragile and soft hands of her.
With a smile gracing her face, Nagumo regarded Akari's hand with both admiration and reverence. "It's a remarkable piece of craftsmanship," she remarked,her voice filled with genuine appreciation.
Akari's gaze shifted downward, a hint of shyness coloring her response. "To be honest, this replacement isn't truly mine," she confessed, her voice carrying a touch of vulnerability. "A hermit gave it to me,".
"But look, it does recognize you as its owner. It fitted very well in you, and it all seems like you were one with it,"
"It is programming, and nothing more,"
"It is more than anything in this world, my dear," Nagumo's voice resonated with a sense of ancient wisdom as she gently turned Akari's hand, exposing the palm to the light. As her touch met Akari's metallic surface, a breathtaking spectacle unfolded before them.
The rustic and metallic palm of her seemed to come alive with an ethereal radiance. Strange and enchanting symbols materialized, dancing in a mesmerizing display. Each symbol carried an air of mystique.
Utterly shocked, Akari could only muster a bewildered response. "What is this...?" Her voice trembled, unable to fully grasp the magnitude of the extraordinary sight before her.
Nagumo regarded the radiant symbols with a serene smile, her eyes reflecting a profound appreciation for the otherworldly display. "Isn't it beautiful?" she asked, her voice filled with both reverence and awe.
Overwhelmed by the unexpected revelation, Akari swiftly withdrew her hand, concealing it as if shielding herself from the sheer magnitude of the spectacle. Shock and disbelief flooded her senses, rendering her momentarily speechless.
Nagumo stood with a determined resolve, and makes her way towards the window, feeling the cool breeze against his face as he reached for the latch. With a gentle push, the window creaked open, revealing a world painted in darkness.
As she gazed outside, the moon emerged from behind a shroud of clouds, casting its pale glow upon the auspicious landscape. It was a solitary sentinel, the only source of illumination in the velvety expanse of the night sky. Its soft light caressed the forest, revealing subtle contours and casting shadows that danced in harmony with the night.
"In the dawn of the tumultuous era of history, amidst the strife of the old warring states, there was once a warrior named Tokugawa Ieyasu who ascended to prominence, destined to shape the course of history," With a graceful motion, Nagumo opened her palm, revealing a hidden device within the folds of her kimono sleeve. Nestled within her elegant attire, a ๐๐ช๐ด๐ฆ๐ณ๐ถ emerged, its slender form glinting softly in the ambient light.
"With astute political acumen, military prowess, and an unwavering ambition, Ieyasu sought to unify the fractured land under his rule," Her gaze fell upon the lamp suspended by a slender chain next to the open window. She reached out and delicately lifted the lid, revealing a dimly flickering flame within. The warm glow danced in the darkness, casting soft shadows upon her face.
With careful precision, Nagumo plucked a small piece of smoldering charcoal from the heart of the flame, its ember radiating a gentle heat. The fragrant smoke of memories past lingered in the air as she skillfully inserted the charcoal into the waiting pipe of the ๐๐ช๐ด๐ฆ๐ณ๐ถ.
"It was said that during one of his campaigns, Ieyasu's forces laid siege to an ancient temple hidden in the deep caves within the rugged mountains. Within its sacred confines, Ieyasu discovered an artifact of mythical proportions โ the ๐๐ข๐ฎ๐ช ๐ฏ๐ฐ ๐ต๐ฆ๐ฃ๐ถ๐ฌ๐ถ๐ณ๐ฐ. Whispers of its origins swirled in the air, speaking of its divine creation and the essence of Amaterasu infused within its very metallic fibers. Some even believed it to be a final gift bestowed by the goddess herself, before humanity's departure from this mortal realm," As she delicately held the ๐๐ช๐ด๐ฆ๐ณ๐ถ pipe to her lips, wisps of smoke gracefully billowed forth, dancing through the air. Her exhale was a poetic release, forming ethereal clouds that swirled and wove intricate patterns before dissipating into the surrounding atmosphere.
"Recognizing the potent symbolism and potential power of such an artifact, Ieyasu reverently claimed the artifact as his own. Their ornate design, forged from ancient metals and adorned with intricate engravings on the gauntlets, served as a visual testament to Amaterasu's mercy and judgement,"
"The discovery served as a rallying point for Ieyasu's forces, inspiring awe and fear among his adversaries. The tales of one's exploits spread across the land, further fueling the legend of the powerful warrior who wielded the god's might and with the power that it held, he reunited the entirety of the land within the course of history,"
Nagumo's intense gaze shifted towards Akari, his eyes locking onto her.
"The rusty gauntlet that was tampered in your arm, it is an artifact of the gods," Her attention momentarily diverted, and he reached for his pipe. The tip of the pipe touched his lips, and he drew in a deep breath. Smoke gracefully billowed forth, leaving an enigmatic trail behind.
Yet in the quiet solitude of her thoughts, Nagumo pondered. "It was a fable that had been whispered to little ones, their innocent ears eager to believe in the unwavering protection of the gods, The tale promised that as long as prayers were offered with unwavering devotion, the divine forces would never forsake their devoted followers". "It's a narrative that falls short of reality," she murmured softly.
Akari's eyes remained fixed upon Nagumo, an unshakable suspicion lingering within her gaze. In that moment, Nagumo recognized the doubt reflected in Akari's expression, unable to conceal her curiosity any longer.
A gentle chuckle escaped Nagumo's lips, a mix of intrigue and amusement intertwining in the sound. "I can see the flicker of uncertainty dancing across your face," she mused, her voice carrying a hint of playfulness. The air seemed to shimmer with intrigue as she spoke.
Leaning closer, Nagumo continued, "If you truly desire to uncover the mysteries surrounding that enigmatic artifact, seek out the last remaining descendants of the Tokugawa lineage. They reside across the sprawling Kamigawa district."
With a deliberate motion, Nagumo extinguished the smoldering tip of the ๐๐ช๐ด๐ฆ๐ณ๐ถ, bringing an end to the wisps of smoke that had enchanted the air. Taking a moment to delicately wipe away the residue and dust, she carefully inserted the pipe back into the folds of her kimono sleeve
"But the road ahead is dangerous, I must prioritize your safety more than anything else,"
Gently, Akari voiced the question that lingered in her mind, her voice tinged with a hint of self-doubt. "Why would you go to such lengths to help someone like me? I am but a face lost among the masses, inconspicuous and insignificant."
"You are important to me, my child," A warm chuckle escaped Nagumo's lips, its sound carrying a resolute affirmation.
As the shadows cast by the setting sun stretched across the landscape, Nagumo's gaze shifted back to the darkness beyond the window. Her voice carried a mixture of urgency and concern as she broached a grim testament.
"With the arrival of dawn, the lord's formidable army will ascend upon this place," she began, her voice laced with determination. "Promise me, no matter the circumstances, that you will flee this perilous ground."
Akari's face turned worried, her eyes pleading for answers. Confusion mingled with her concern, seeking understanding as to why she had not been informed earlier.
"I had my reasons for withholding this information," Nagumo responded calmly, her voice tinged with a hint of mystery. "Furthermore, you have your own burdens to bear, your own personal quest to pursue. Taking on additional strife is a weight you need not carry."
Akari's eyes grew serious, her determination unfaltering. "I cannot make that promise," she countered, her voice filled with conviction. "The kindness you have shown me, I shall repay it at any cost. I will stand against the oncoming tide and strike back."
A soft smile graced Nagumo's lips, radiating both wisdom and reassurance. "There is no need for you to shoulder such a burden," she gently replied. "This old lady has weathered storms far greater than these. I assure you, I can protect myself."
Akari's protests were met with a gentle interruption as Nagumo pressed a finger against her lips, silencing her concerns. A smile danced across Nagumo's face, filled with a sense of unwavering confidence and tranquility.
"Trust me," she whispered, her voice carrying the weight of experience and resilience.
With a mixture of obedience and contemplation, Akari nodded, surrendering to Nagumo. Uncertainty flickered in her eyes, but she found solace in the trust she had placed in the teahouse owner's capable hands.
As Nagumo stood beneath the open expanse of the sky, her gaze lifted towards the heavens. The celestial dance unfolding before her eyes was a sight to behold. The moon, who was the solitary guard of the dark skies, gradually retreated from its perch high above, seeking refuge amidst the cradling embrace of the distant mountains.
On the opposite horizon, a vibrant glow began to emerge. The first tendrils of dawn's gentle touch painted the sky in hues of pink and gold. A soft warmth permeated the air as the sun prepared to make its grand entrance, casting away the remnants of night with its radiant light. In the fading embrace of twilight, a sight unfolded that would linger in memory, forever etched in both of their hearts. Yet within its beauty lay the seeds of strife, for sometimes, even the most captivating scenes held the power to ignite the flames of conflict.
"But if you would grant my one request..." Nagumo whispered in Akari's ear.
A change of juncture occurs, as the spectacle changed, chaos ensued, and the clouds of dust kicked up by the commotion had made it difficult for the soldiers to see what was happening. They had been coughing and spluttering for what felt like hours, their eyes stinging from the swirling grit.
Suddenly, the dust began to clear. As the soldiers looked around. They thought that the general had done his job of separating Nagumo's head from her body, assuming that he would make quick work, yet, they could see that something was wrong.
Standing between Eiji and Nagumo was a battle-scarred ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ฉ๐ช, its right arm raised to shield Nagumo from the force of Eiji's blade. The general was frozen, his sword caught in the ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ฉ๐ช's arm, which glinted ominously amidst the crackling circuitry and the smoke bellowing out of its metallic limb.
The soldiers watched in horror as the ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ฉ๐ช pulled its arm back, tearing his royal armor and impaling him with its huge, mechanical blade. Blood sprayed from Eiji's back, but despite the dire predicament, the general looks unfazed.
Eiji couldn't utter a single word. His eyes piercing and gazing at the figure that stood in front of him. As he look at the ๐๐ถ๐ด๐ฉ๐ช's face and felt a sense of familiarity. He remembers, what the others had warned him about.
The Bushi hopped away, distancing itself away from him, though made itself vulnerable from the guards scattered at her back.
They gritted their teeth and clenched their fists, raising their weapons to take their chance.
The general raised his hand, and with a single flick, their agitations flipped calm, yet, not lost.
"Why have you not left, my child?" cried Nagumo.
"I cannot do it," Akari replied, gritting her teeth as she angrily stares at Nagumo.
"Seek refuge at Tokugawa!" Nagumo screams as the guards walked towards her and drags her away. The guards dragged and threw Nagumo on top of one of their horses and hurriedly leaves.
"I cannot leave you behi--" Without hesitation, she prepared to pounce, ready to defy the odds and fight the guardsmen for Nagumo's freedom; yet, in that crucial moment, Eiji's swift intervention disrupted her intentions.
His blade, honed with lethal precision, arced dangerously close to Akari, forcing her to abruptly change her trajectory. A gasp escaped her lips as the blade sliced through the air, barely missing her by a hair's breadth.
Reacting with instinctive agility, Akari swiftly pivoted, evading Eiji's lethal strike. Her body moved with grace and finesse, narrowly avoiding the imminent danger. Sensing the urgency of the situation, she skillfully backed herself into a corner.
Baffled and astounded, Akari's eyes fixated on the grievous wound that marred Eiji's abdomen. Her confusion echoed in her trembling voice as she uttered the incredulous question, "How are you still alive?"
Her gaze widened, unable to comprehend the inexplicable scene playing out before her. To her astonishment, the gaping wound that should have spelled certain doom for any ordinary being began to stitch itself together, as if time itself was rewinding. The sight unfolded in an instant, defying the laws of nature, leaving Akari in awe.
"You must be Akari, Himagawa Akari," He raised the ominous, and gargantuan curved blade, pointing at her.
"How did you know about me?" she has taken a few steps aback. With a firm grip on her mechanical blade, she held it aloft, prepared to defend herself
"You speak our tongue fluently, and yet you are an outsider. I will hold no custody towards you. But if you resist and pursue us, I will not intend to let you live any longer,"
As a foreboding energy enveloped Eiji, his very presence seemed to transform into something dark and menacing. An aura, tinged with an unmistakable territorial intensity, radiated from him.
"Should you choose to depart from this land, your life shall be spared," he declared, his words laced with an unyielding authority.
In the face of Eiji, a defiant retort escaped Akari's lips. Her voice carried a tinge of skepticism, challenging the very foundation of his words.
"Though you speak of honor, I find no emblem of it upon you. Mere words devoid of substance," she replied with a firm resolve. Her eyes, steady and unwavering, pierced through the veil of his authority, seeing through the faรงade he presented. She refused to be swayed by empty rhetoric.
"Thus, you possess no rightful authority to detain anyone," she continued,
As Akari spoke, a knowing chuckle danced upon her lips, a hint of amusement seeping into her voice. It was as if she held secrets of her own, knowledge that allowed her to see through the veil of titles and positions.
"You must be Lord Eiji Nakamura," she declared, her voice laced with a mixture of familiarity and curiosity. "Rumors have whispered your name, claiming you to be one of the esteemed vassals of the Shogun."
"I'll take a guess, Shiranui told you about me, or you are just rather well-informed than I was expecting," Amidst the charged atmosphere, a flicker of curiosity danced within Eiji's eyes as Akari spoke. Her words hinted at a knowledge beyond his expectations, causing him to ponder the source of her insights.
"It doesn't change the fact that you have defiled the holy grounds of the Shogun. You can only leave here or die trying. Be careful in choosing your next answer," The choice was now laid bare before her.
In response, Akari's voice remained calm and composed, a stark contrast to the tension that pervaded the air. "I can help you," she spoke.
Caught off guard by Akari's unexpected offer, Eiji's curiosity deepened, mulling over the implications of her proposition. "What are you talking about,"
"Well, if that seems to be the case," Akari released a weary sigh,
She then declared, her voice carrying the weight of an unspoken code. "I challenge you to a duel! Eiji Nakamura!"
Her right hand ascended, and to Eiji's astonishment, her metallic fist emitted an ethereal purple glow. Intricate runes adorned its surface, whispering to Eiji like it was an invitation of death.
Eiji responded with a gaze, a surprise momentarily flickering across his face before he released a resigned sigh of his own. "Very well," his blade answering to his opponent's call.
The once serious countenance of Eiji underwent a transformation, a sinister grin curling upon his lips. The flicker of mischief danced in his eyes, his primal instincts awakened by the prospect of battle. The thrill of combat mingled with a hint of dark anticipation, painting a chilling portrait of the conflict to come.
"The reaper has answered my call," he muttered.