Chapter 9: Yamatsuki Kumo
As Ryu strode through the bustling streets of the capital, his thoughts still consumed by his recent altercation with Garret the Iron Fist, he had little tolerance for distractions. Fate, however, had other designs.
Amongst the throngs of people, a figure caught Ryu's attention. Dressed in fine garments and exuding an air of privilege, the young man stood out amidst the urban chaos. Ryu paid him scant regard, his focus fixed solely on securing provisions for his forthcoming journey into the wilderness.
Their paths converged once more within the guild hall. Standing at the counter, Ryu's gaze fixed upon the quest board, he sensed a presence looming behind him.
Kumo: "Excuse me, are you Ryu?"
Ryu turned to face the newcomer, his expression inscrutable.
Ryu: "Who's asking?"
Kumo: "I'm Yamatsuki Kumo. My father sent me here to prove my worth as a swordsman."
Ryu's eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of the Yamatsuki name, but he remained silent.
Kumo: "I've heard of your exploits as a hunter in the guild. I was hoping we could team up for a quest."
Ryu's gaze lingered on Kumo, his silence a palpable rebuke.
Ryu: "I prefer working alone."
With that, he returned his attention to the quest board, dismissing Kumo with a single word. Yet destiny had other plans.
Later that day, as Ryu perused the available contracts, one in particular seized his interest: the eradication of a rampaging minotaur terrorizing a nearby village. Despite the formidable challenge it posed, Ryu was resolved to see it through.
As he readied himself for departure, he sensed someone beside him. Turning, he found Kumo standing there, his demeanor eager and hopeful.
Kumo: "I heard about the quest. I want to assist."
Ryu's patience wore thin as he regarded Kumo.
Ryu: "Can you handle it?"
Kumo: "Absolutely! Though inexperienced, I'm a quick learner."
With a resigned sigh, Ryu acquiesced, recognizing the necessity of additional aid. Together, they ventured into the wilderness, their paths entwined by fate.
Approaching the minotaur's lair, Ryu prepared to strike, his strength far surpassing that of the beast. Turning to Kumo, he issued a command.
Ryu: "Finish it."
But Kumo stuttered, his nerves betraying him.
Kumo: "I... I can't do it!"
In the ensuing chaos, the minotaur seized its chance, shattering Kumo's sword and launching a ferocious counterattack.
Ryu sprang into action, his movements fluid and decisive. With a swift motion, he dispatched the minotaur, severing its head in a single blow.
As the dust settled, Ryu regarded Kumo with icy detachment.
Ryu: "Useless."
With that, he walked away leaving kumo on his knees on ground shocked.
Kumo: How did he even..
After all of this Kumo went to Yamatsuki Family Mansion to Meet His Father
Kumo: Father, I joined in a quest with someone as you told me.
Hirai: Did you kill the minotaur
Kumo: Uh- it wasnt me
Hirai: Did you even kill a single monster in your training mission.
Kumo: I.. Couldnt kill anyone
Hirai: You are such a shame for this family! We yamatsuki family a royal bloodline of swordmen! You are just ruining our reputation useless!
Kumo: Dad i just cant kill anyone
Hirai walks away and leave kumo without letting him finish his sentence
Hirai: You are not welcomed until you prove yourself
The old servant Loomian Walks to Kumo and put his hand over his shoulder
Loomian: I think he just looking for you to be a strong man and lead this family after him
Kumo: Sir Loomian its just that i cant kill anyone , i do not like blood i never asked for this
Loomian: Listen Kumo, I know you are a nice boy from inside and that you do not want to hurt anyone if everyone was like you , then Sir Hirai wouldnt need to guard the City
Kumo: You know what i will try again!