"Humans complex creatures, multidimensional if you would, a collection of different experiences, different narratives, different beliefs, principles, and standards, there are more opinions than there are visible stars in the sky... but most choose to hide in a burble of illusions, too afraid to come to terms with the reality in front of them, the truth is always harsh and unforgiving, some choose to hide in an illusion of strength, bunnies with delusional fangs and claws, clinging on to false moral values, all for the sake of appearing strong but good. a bunny isn't strong or good... a bunny is food... BE A LEVIATHAN, BE A DRAGON!!" Haruto shouted as he kicked off his feet, a feeling of raging waves hitting his body as he unconsciously channeled his Chi.
He swiped his hand, creating a wave of Chi, sharp as a sword that dug the ground beneath as it made its way towards the instructor, a resonating clang, metal against metal as the invisible force clashed with something and dissipated.
"I'll kill you now, boy," the instructor said, his spear raised high and swung without hesitation making contact with Haruto's flesh, blood spilling on the wet ground adding another layer of color to the muddy floor.
*** A FEW HOURS BEFORE****
In the dimly lit chamber, shadows danced upon the walls, casting an eerie glow that seemed to flicker and wane with each passing moment. The atmosphere was heavy with tension as the six figures gathered around the rosewood table, their expressions a mix of solemnity, curiosity, and perhaps a hint of amusement.
Elder Takeshi Ironheart sat at the head of the table, his rugged features etched with lines of experience and determination. His gaze was steely, his voice firm as he spoke of military affairs and the need for strength in times of uncertainty. Beside him, Elder Hanzo Shadowblade leaned forward, his sharp eyes gleaming with the keen intellect of a master tactician. He valued discipline and efficiency above all else, his words cutting through the air with precision and clarity.
Opposite them sat Elder Ayame Whisperwind, her presence as ethereal as the breeze that whispered through the chamber. She spoke of diplomacy and negotiation, her voice soft yet commanding as she argued for a more diplomatic approach to the challenges ahead. Beside her, Elder Yumi radiated an aura of assertiveness and loyalty, her unwavering support for the clan was evident in every word she spoke.
On the other side of the table sat Elder Roku, a serene figure whose calm demeanor belied a fierce determination. He spoke of balance and harmony, his words soothing yet profound as he sought to find a middle ground amidst the conflicting perspectives of his fellow elders.
And at the center of it all sat Lord Bloodfire, the leader of the Jigoku clan, his presence commanding respect and authority. His crimson eyes burned with an inner fire as he listened to the debate unfolding before him, his lips curled into a faint smile as he savored the tension in the air.
"Why this exam, this early in the year?" Elder Takeshi's voice boomed, breaking the silence that had settled over the chamber like a heavy fog. "Are we to subject our youth to such trials without cause or reason?"
"Perhaps it is a test of their mettle," Elder Hanzo countered, his tone measured and deliberate. "To see who among them has the strength and resilience to rise above adversity."
"But at what cost?" Elder Ayame interjected, her voice tinged with concern. "We cannot risk the lives of our youth without proper justification."
"Indeed," Elder Yumi agreed, her eyes narrowing slightly. "We must ensure that their safety is paramount."
"Balance must be maintained," Elder Roku added, his voice calm yet firm. "We cannot afford to lose sight of what is truly important."
Lord Bloodfire remained silent for a moment, his gaze sweeping over the assembled elders with a mixture of pride and amusement. "Ah, but where is the fun in that?" he finally spoke, his voice laced with a hint of mischief. "Let us not forget that life is meant to be lived, not merely endured."
Lord Bloodfire's voice cut through the tension like a blade through silk, his words carrying the weight of authority as he addressed the assembled elders. "The reason for this test, my esteemed colleagues, is clear," he began, his tone commanding attention. "A school, forged through the accord of the emperor and the leaders of other kingdoms, stands as a beacon of cultivation excellence—a bastion of knowledge and resource that surpasses the limits of individual clans."
He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "It is a place where talented youth can thrive, where they can gain access to resources and knowledge that our clans alone cannot provide. And it is our duty, as leaders of the Jigoku clan, to ensure that we contribute our finest to this noble endeavor."
Lord Bloodfire's gaze swept over each elder in turn, his crimson eyes burning with intensity. "Do we wish to present unprepared youth to this prestigious institution?" he questioned, his voice resonating with authority. "Or mediocre students who will only serve to showcase the weaknesses in our clan's training?"
With a collective nod, the elders seemed to reach a consensus, their expressions varying from solemn to determined as they prepared to discuss their chosen candidates.
Elder Takeshi Ironheart, known for his rugged demeanor and unwavering commitment to strength, spoke first. "We need warriors who can stand tall in the face of any challenge," he grumbled, his voice deep and resonant. "I say we send those who have proven themselves on the battlefield—those who have demonstrated true resilience and prowess."
Elder Hanzo Shadowblade, a master tactician with a penchant for efficiency, interjected with a sly grin. "Strength alone will not win us this battle," he remarked, his eyes glinting with intelligence. "We must also consider strategy and discipline. I propose we send those with keen minds and a knack for thinking on their feet."
Elder Ayame Whisperwind, known for her diplomatic finesse and silver tongue, raised an elegant eyebrow. "Let us not forget the importance of diplomacy and negotiation," she suggested, her voice smooth as silk. "We must choose those who can navigate the complexities of politics and forge alliances on behalf of our clan."
Elder Yumi, a fierce warrior with unyielding loyalty to the clan, nodded in agreement. "But let us not overlook the value of assertiveness and loyalty," she added, her tone firm and resolute. "We need individuals who will stand by our clan without hesitation—those who will fight tooth and nail to protect our interests."
Elder Roku, the embodiment of balance and harmony, offered a serene smile. "Indeed, we must strive for balance in all things," he said, his voice calm and measured. "Let us choose those who embody the virtues of our clan—those who possess strength, intelligence, and unwavering resolve."
"We are supposed to send, twelve youths each clan is to make no excuses," Said Lord Bloodfire. " I have chosen my Heir, young lord Ido will be going and if I'm correct in assuming all of you have candidates from your family that just leaves six spots, two are filled by members of the clan's training that awakened their Jigoku recently, Yu and Hiruko" Lord Bloodfire continued.
"So this test is to determine who will be given the four spots left open," Lady Ayame said.
"I say we send more, nothing says we have potential than sending more capable youth than the other clans" Lady Yumi intervened.
"If that is the case and we have more people to send I'd like to send three from my family"
"Don't you dare, we already agreed to send only one per family and the rest will be filled with the youth in the commoner district"
"If that's the case let's send 20 students my lord if you would allow, this way we solidify our clan's standing above the rest and prove we have more to give than them," Lord Hanzo said.
"I vote for, Zen and Kyo, they have displayed good strength and resistance," Lord Takeshi said, his booming voice irritating his neighbor.
"I vote for this one, his way of doing things is intriguing to say" Lord Hanzo had voted.
"Why do I feel like you're leaving the girls out of this, these two here have good bodies with a bit of teaching they can be very good negotiators," Lady Ayame said, her devious smile evident as she licked at her lips.
"I vote for young lady Rui and Maki," Said the dignified elder, taking his sip of lavender tea.
As the discussions with the elder continued, Haruto, accompanied by Kaito, Chen, Fu, and Rui made their way up the mountain accompanied by the female instructor who cursed her rotten luck, she led them out of the fog and into a cave that leads to a well-built chamber within the mountain.
"Welcome young youth, before we conduct the final phase of the exam, we are going to test you for a few things, we determine the power you have as well as your potential before we send you to the final phase, those who display good results here, will pass and not take part of the final exam," An instructor in gold robes and a white belt indicating he was stage two of cultivation Grade A said, his colorful cloth was a nice change for the students.