Chapter 1: From Hero to Exiled
Mataski Tenji's journey begins with him as a young boy, filled with dreams of heroism and saving his kingdom. These innocent aspirations stand in stark contrast to his current, broken state as a man exiled from his homeland. Once a noble and trusted commander in the Mamosian army, Mataski's life took a tragic turn when he discovered the dark truth about the king he once served.
The pivotal moment occurs when the woman Mataski loves reveals that the peace treaty between Mamosa and Kleno is a sham, designed to provoke war. The king's sinister plan involves a Mamosian soldier disguised as a Kleno guard, meant to attack Mataski's men and justify an all-out assault. When Mataski's lover warns him of this betrayal, his fellow knights, blinded by loyalty, accuse her of treason and execute her despite Mataski's desperate attempts to save her.
This traumatic event shatters Mataski's faith in the king and leads to his exile. The chapter closes with him lying wounded under a cherry blossom tree, reflecting on his ruined life and the heavy burden of his past decisions. His mother's earrings, a reminder of the family and love he has lost, are the only visible connection to his former life.
Chapter 2: A New Path
In Chapter 2, Mataski wakes from a nightmare that forces him to relive the death of his beloved. The pain of that day haunts him, making peace elusive even in sleep. He finds himself in the warm, comforting environment of a small home, a stark contrast to the cold forest where he was last seen. This new setting introduces Maria Windfield and her daughter, Emily, who found Mataski and nursed him back to health.
Maria is strong and caring, quickly establishing herself as someone who doesn't tolerate self-pity. Her daughter, Emily, is shy and quiet, avoiding direct interaction with Mataski but showing a gentle concern for his well-being. As Mataski tries to get up, his body, still weak from his injuries, fails him, highlighting his stubbornness and pride.
Maria explains that it was Emily who spotted Mataski's earrings, which led them to find him in the forest. These earrings symbolize his past and the family he has lost. The chapter takes a tense turn when Maria confronts Mataski with a knife, demanding to know his identity and why he was left for dead. Mataski, though surprised, calmly explains his situation, admitting to having taken lives, some of which he regrets, and revealing his exile from Mamosa.
Upon hearing the name Mamosa, Maria's attitude changes. She shares her disdain for the king, a sentiment common among those familiar with his cruelty. When Mataski expresses that he has nothing left—no family, friends, or purpose—Maria reacts strongly, chastising him for giving up on life. Her words begin to stir something within Mataski, suggesting that he may still have a future worth living for.
The chapter concludes with Mataski agreeing to help Maria with her work, despite his weakened state. This decision marks the beginning of a new chapter in his life, hinting at the possibility of healing and redemption.
Character Details
Mataski Tenji
Background: Formerly a commander in the Mamosian army, Mataski was exiled after the king's betrayal led to the death of his beloved.
Personality: Stubborn and proud, Mataski is deeply haunted by his past. He struggles with guilt and a loss of purpose but begins to show signs of resilience.
Current Status: Recovering under the care of Maria and Emily, Mataski is starting to confront his past and consider a new path forward.
Maria Windfield
Background: A strong, caring woman who lives with her daughter, Emily. Maria is skilled in healing and has taken responsibility for Mataski's recovery.
Personality: Compassionate yet firm, Maria does not tolerate weakness and challenges Mataski to confront his self-pity. She is protective, especially of her daughter.
Current Status: Maria is focused on helping Mataski heal while managing her responsibilities. She sees potential in Mataski and hopes to guide him toward a better future.
Emily Windfield
Background: Maria's shy and quiet daughter, Emily assists her mother in caring for Mataski.
Personality: Reserved but caring, Emily plays a supportive role in Mataski's recovery, her presence offering him a sense of calm.
Current Status: Emily continues to help her mother care for Mataski, her interactions with him minimal but meaningful.
Writer's Note
Hey everyone,
First off, I want to say a huge thank you for taking the time to read Tenji. Your support means the world to me, and I hope you're enjoying the story as much as I love writing it. As the journey of Mataski Tenji continues, I'm constantly working to improve and bring you a story that keeps you hooked.
That's where you come in! Your feedback is incredibly valuable to me. If there's anything you think could be better—whether it's the pacing, character development, dialogue, or anything else—don't hesitate to let me know. Your insights help me grow as a writer and make Tenji the best it can be. I'm all ears for any suggestions, critiques, or even what you loved most about the chapters.
Also, if you're interested in seeing some random artwork of the characters, be sure to check out my Twitter. Follow me [@senoritarika] for updates, sneak peeks, and more!
Once again, thank you for being part of this journey with me. I look forward to hearing your thoughts and continuing to bring you more of Mataski's story.
Stay awesome, and happy reading!