Island Valley of Peace

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #39
@Sea ​

Jade Palace
The battle in the Courtyard was over. The Furious Five had defeated the wolf pack. Tigress had defeated Boss Wolf. Akira had defeated Lord Shen. Though the former received some injuries, the statement of his victory gave strength to an army. The Rhino Army had arrived. They began to overtake Tai Lung’s army in the valley below. The tide of the battle was turning. Yet, reality had sunk in. Tai Lung had long since entered the palace. Lord Shen alleged the most dangerous criminal in the Valley of Peace had obtained the inevitable: the treasure of the Jade Palace. He who would be the Dragon Warrior.

Rushed to the palace, Akira made his way up the stairs and to the long stone door. With a hard push, the doors would creak open. The light from the outside would illuminate the poorly lit temple. A long but wide hallway went for dozens of meters, it’s walls high and astounding. A tranquil pool cut the halfway down the middle, stained with blood. Candled lit periodically as the walls went deeper showed the signs of a great struggle. If Akira ran inside and to the other end of the temple, he’d find the basin.

The pool ended in a Great Basin in front of two massive doors, each with a different symbol: one of Takeuchi and one of the other. Yet, before one would reach them, the sounds of a short whimper would echo. In front of the basic, handing to the edge, was a mangled body of a small animal. One whose spiritual pressure was immense, yet defeated. Hanging on to dear life, literally, was Master Oogway’s pupil.

Master Shifu gasped for air.

 

[Sea]

VoP #40
@Ichimonji ​

Akira followed his intuition – making his way up the stairs towards a large stone door, the architecture of grandeur of this island have seemed to make things unnecessarily tedious to say the least but the very palace itself looks intimidating enough to show its grand display. But the main problem wasn’t any of this, but it would be what is inside of the palace, or rather who is in it. Opening the set of stone doors, the boy would notice the poorly lighted temple interior which is only illuminated upon light coming from where Akira stood. A large hallway in which a pool would stood by the middle, each step forth into the long hallway and a sign of battle would quickly tell its story. The boy did not spend long observing his environs, he has to be quick to get to where Tai Lung is. There are two problems Akira must solve, Tai Lung and Kai. One of them must be located beyond this hallway, which is where a large basin would stand, connected to the pool that extended half way through the other end of the hallway – stained with blood.

Before Akira, whom now arrived at the large basin is two massive doors each with a different symbol. But before any further inspection of the strange doors could be made – a whimpering would echo, prompting the boy’s attention to its direct source – Master Shifu. Defeated and weak perhaps from fighting Tai Lung, Tigress’ fears were realized. The boy quickly moved towards Shifu, as his steps though light is discernible with the near deadly silence that echoes the hallway. Shifu would soon notice the towering figure that casted his shadow upon him, as if death has come for Shifu as he held on to dear life. An aura deadly, darkens like a Grim Reaper.

​

But then, Akira would lower himself as he dropped to a knee, dissipating this dark and fearsome aura as the boy asked his question.

“What happened? Where is he?”

A question not of coldness unlike a Spada Pirate nor befitting of an Assassin, it was something with warmth. Akira despite his darkness, held his humanity – he understood a struggle against something that may be beyond oneself, after all his very own struggle could largely be beyond himself instead of getting from objectives to objectives like he always does, a hint of compassion swirls within the boy, seeing the pain and desperation that Shifu seemly held. The boy could tell from the mangled body that the Mink before him took grievous injuries. Any further and he may not be alive. The Mink before him was quite literally on death’s door. Should he leave Tai Lung for later? It is better that Shifu would be brought back to the courtyard at least for help. Or should he leave Shifu be and hope that he would be strong enough to survive his injuries till help arrives? Another decision. One that would change the fate of the valley.

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #40
@Sea ​

Jade Palace
The war had seen the break of Dawn. On the cusp of victory, a single boy turned the tides, bringing an army of rhinos with him. With Lord Shen down, the commander of the military forces, the Tai Lung army was on the ropes. Yet, the goal was not military supremacy, but the famous Jade Palace Vault and its treasure. Akira had been delayed. Inside, Master Shifu could not hold his prior pupil back: Tai Lung had gone inside the Vault. The two doors, each with one apprentice, was before the boy. Master Shifu, heavily wounded, looked up to see The a shadow. His eyes widened at what he saw.

The quivering voice stabilized after his fear left him, and responded.

[Master Shifu] “Tai Lung, lost pupil, has gone inside the Vault. In his hands he’ll have Twilight’s birthright. In his hands… Tai Lung will hold the key to the prophecy.”​

Masteru Shifu tried to get up. His bones were brittle, his body mangled. Try as he might, the body would not comply. The old racoon sat down and caught his breath. Tai Ling had the treasure, there was time to give na old man peace, should Akira wash it. He stared into Akira’s eyes intently, before retreating his gaze in a gentle smile. The words came pouring out like the wounds oozed blood.

[Master Shifu] “Master Oogway, my mentor, did not prepare me for this. Master Oogway did not even tell the complete prophecy. I’d wager he didn’t tell you either, Kurai.“​

​

[Master Oogway] “All according to the old man’s plan, I gather. When our minds are not ready, hearing the truth will only stray us from the truth. Master Oogway knew it.”​

​

[Master Shifu] “A mind is like the sea. When it is agitated, it becomes difficult to see. But if you allow it to settle, the answer becomes clear.”​

Those words. They came from Master Shifu, but seemed to come straight from Master Oogway’s lips. Akira had heard it once before. Deciding to spare the wolves. Aiding the wolves. Refusing to free Tai Lung. Seeking the rhino’s help. Giving an old Rhino a new purpose. Staying and fighting to save lives at the expense of one’s goals. Stopping to give peace to an old man on the his death bed. Would Akira had done all these if the journey had not resurrected that which had been buried by La Spada’s grasp? What had changed?

Master Shifu asked one question. One question Akira must decide and answer for himself. Like the doors, Akira had two paths. Which one he would choose? The terrible La Spada or this new birth of the boy from a dojo?

[Master Shifu] “Would you like to know who the prophecy is about? Is your mind settled enough to hear the answer clear?”​

 

[Sea]

VoP #41
@Ichimonji

The boy approached Shifu whom is gravely injured from his fight against Tai Lung, but from what he gathered – Kai is nowhere to be seen. This means that at this moment, the boy only has to contend with one person. This is further confirmed when Shifu finally spoke, only speaking of Tai Lung heading into the vault and no one else. The boy quickly gathered his thoughts. Kai mentioned he would await him in the Jade Palace yet he is nowhere to be seen. The Spirit Realm. Perhaps the sister sword. The boy starts to formulate his theory, a reason why Muramasa couldn’t strike Kai quite literally. Shifu continues to spoke, his body not willing to listen to the elder’s command, but his voice maintain strength enough to continue his words. Oogway, once more he would appear, this time from master to master – revealing Shifu as the mentee. Though given Shifu’s age it would likely been decades when they were just master and student.

“…..”

The boy did not immediately respond to Shifu when he would mention that Oogway likely did not tell him everything. Though in Akira’s case it seems less of an issue with deliberate hiding the prophecy and more that Oogway just spirited away. Though perhaps Shifu would be right that all these is well planned by Oogway even his death. Who could truly know the mind of the tortoise? Regardless Shifu would start to ramble a little bit, but ultimately he quoted Oogway’s words – something that Akira would remember very well, whilst not exactly word for word, the sentiment stays the same. Lastly, Shifu would finally made a question, posed towards Akira if he wishes to know more about the prophecy and who it is about, or for. But as he did – the boy ripped apart some of the bandages that wrapped around his head, maintaining his facial cover. Death bed or not, the boy did not hesitate. Using those bandages, Akira starts to wrap the bandages carefully around Shifu, ensuring that the bandages would achieve its natural objectives, to prevent further bleeding from the wounds. Despite not knowing how to treat any injuries, simple first aid like this is easy enough to replicate. As Shifu finishes his question, he would find himself lifted up rather carefully as Akira starts to turn away from the vault, moving quickly the opposite direction with Shifu in tow.

“You can tell me as we return to the entrance.”

The Shadow’s choice is clear. From start to end, he never once deviates from his path. A choice not understood from a pirate’s point of view, especially of a crew like his. An Assassin to the letter, but the boy did not sacrifice another innocent life. He would be willing kill pirates upon the orders of the Grim Reaper, but an innocent life not involved in his world – he would not throw away. The boy’s past was one of someone thrown to the life of privacy by force. The pain of his past lingers in his heart and soul. To Shifu, and even the rest of the people in the Valley. These lives he would not sacrifice when offered. He was once in such a position, and with no Devil lurking behind him guiding his actions – the answer is clear. Naïve, one may consider Akira to be, for he is still young. Barely a full-fledged adult.

Regardless of his choice, he would have to face Tai Lung and Twilight’s Edge, and given the whole situation about the spirit realm, he would not put it past that Kai himself is also waiting for him beyond those doors. Another reason, though partially that he decides to try save Shifu, he can no longer control what he would face beyond the door, but he can try to control another’s fate. His mind is clear as day, like the water reflection that shines back to the moon. What Oogway’s prophecy is about he would hear about it. The boy has to trust in himself, and in his heart.

A silent sigh. A look at Muramasa. A dilemma that was settled once more. Perhaps the worst outcome he would find himself in. Perhaps the choice that would send the valley and its inhabitants to the fiery doom that was beyond the doors. Despite his injured leg, Akira was still able to move fairly quick that traversing out to the entrance would barely takes a minute now that he would attempt to quickly get Shifu for help. The boy has to trust in himself, believing that his choice is correct. Not just in the swords that Oogway mentioned. The swords cannot make the decision for him nor Oogway is here to tell him his choice is wrong. For once, Akira puts his trust in this prophecy, in Oogway’s words – that he is the right one.

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #41
@Sea ​

Jade Palace
The young boy went through a row of memories and emotions. Yet, his will remained strong. Remembering the words of Oogway, the boy did something else unheard of - he saved someone not part of his mission. When Akira bent down and bandaged Shifu, Muramasa began to writhe, almost as if twisting in objection. A sword that killed, not saved. Master Shifu, struggling to get up, did exactly that with the help of the boy. A newfound adrenaline rush in the face of this young man’s aid moved him forward. Holding Akira’s leg pants as they walked through the corridor, Master Shifu began to speak.

The Master revealed who the prophecy was about.

[Master Shifu] “The name of the Chosen One is... Yūgure.”​

Like a descending bass line, that last word, that last name, came in slow motion. The name that echoed through the corridor onward to the entrance. The name of the Chosen One. It was not Akira. Through all this time, weeks now, Akira had heard he was the Chosen One, the Child of Prophecy. Yet, Master Shifu, straight from the one who foretold the prophecy, Master Oogway, revealed the truth. A name with a female tone in how Shifu spoken it: Yūgure.

Yūgure, literally meaning “Twilight”. Fittingly, the blade of prophecy was subbed ‘Twilight‘s Edge’, the edge of Yūgure. If Akira’s mind was clear, Master Shifu’s words became clear.

[Master Shifu] “Muramasa and Twilight’s Edge are not Saijo O Wazamono swords for their sharpness or durability. You must have felt it by now, haven’t you…? The blades are Meito because they house souls.”​

Doom! There it was. The secret of the blades. They were less weapons and more living beings. Souls, trapped or housed within the sharp metal. The bloodlust that exuded from Muramasa, the one Akira knew too well, the bloodlust that fomented and fed off Akira’s own, pushing him to hate… it came from a soul. Muramasa was alive. Question is: whose soul did Muramasa possess? And importantly, who was Yūgure?

As the light at the end of the hallway shone, Master Shifu gave his last remarks before arriving back at the entrance.

[Master Shifu] “The time has come, young apprentice. Which soul will you follow?”​

 

[Sea]

VoP #42
@Ichimonji

The young boy took to saving another’s life once more, but his actions did not go unnoticed. An objection. Muramasa writhed as Akira helped Shifu, but met with seemly no obvious reaction from Akira, yet the boy knew something is wrong with Muramasa but choose not to say anything nor to hesitate but to focused on the task at hand. As both the boy and Shifu made their way back to the entrance, Shifu continues his words in regards to the prophecy – here Shifu revealed the name of a chosen one, Yugure. The boy listened intently, considering how many seems to regard Akira as the second coming of Kurai, Shifu gave a different answer that the name of a Chosen One wasn’t him that many have eluded or implied otherwise. Regardless, a surprise for sure as Akira would figure the answer would have been obvious, then again he probably should have expected considering how Shifu has talked about this. The boy didn’t care if he isn’t the Chosen One, he only used this implication made by others to get things done as he did with the wolves, and then the rhinos. He never once thought he would be anything important and his reluctance and hesitation to accept of these in faith seems to in root of his mind. The only thing he has seem to somewhat accept was Oogway’s words that asked him to help deal with the ancient malice that manifesting as a singular entity. A Devil, or so that’s what Akira believes to be.

Here Shifu would reveal more truth in regards to Muramasa and Twilight’s Edge, that they are not the greatest swords simply because of their sharp edge or how well-crafted they are. They were swords that gain that status because they housed a soul within. A revelation, one that completely took even Akira visibly surprised. Perhaps that what Muramasa was, trying to speak to Akira not just from a strange tingling as a weapon with a will, but from soul to soul. The multiple writhing of Muramasa ever since he steps foot onto the island, it would make a whole lot of sense. However, the souls in question – Twilight’s Edge, the name would translate into Yugure, perhaps the truth of the sister sword, that it would house Yugure. But if that’s the case who whom did Muramasa in particular possessed? Both swords are known to be the greatest 12 swords, meaning to put both would have to house a soul since ancient times. The boy continues to contemplate for a little bit but his heart and mind seem to be somewhat clear, he wasn’t too confused. In fact, Akira looks more calm after the revelation. As they finally made their way back to the entrance, Shifu finally gave a final remark before leaving, allowing others to attend to him for his injuries afterwards. The scene would blacken as words would whisper softly.

Which soul will you follow?

Suddenly, the scene changed. In front of the doors to vault, opened – the boy did not take a step in. Questions. Answers. There is still a lot of figure out. The boy stared past into the light of the vaults and as he did, he suddenly moved Muramasa towards the front in a horizontal manner parallel to the ground. Unsheathing Muramasa just slightly out of the scabbard, showing just a glimpse of the bloodied edge.

​

The paintings on the door in the prison. A two warriors, two wielders of the swords. Perhaps….

Kurai.

The boy would sheathed Muramasa once more. Akira has spent too much time, he has to deal with Tai Lung now, and likely Kai beyond. His leg, whilst injured has stopped bleeding – pain acclimated. The boy walked through the vault.

It is time.

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #42
@Sea ​

Jade Palace - The Great Vault
The one who was once called the Chosen One, that idea slayed by Master Shifu’s words, took the old raccoon back to the courtyard. The silence was damming, with the realization Muramasa and Twilight’s Edge housed souls being the driving shock factor. Muramasa had been pulling at Akira’s bloodlust, pushing him to kill, ever since he slayed the villagers of the dojo all those years ago. An evil soul, perhaps? Or was there something more? Kurai, came to Akira’s mind. The tale of the two apprentices of Oogway centuries ago, a tale told by hieroglyphics, is what came to Akira’s mind.

Upon opening up the door to the courtyard, Akira would find Tigress waiting for them. The kung fu master rushed to Shifu, taking him into her arms. She cried when she saw the wounds, thanking Akira for saving him. As Akira left, Togress called out to him, her tone now serious and deliberate.

[Tigress] “When you find Tai Lung…. make him pay.”
​

Make him pay. Akira would be left to face Tai Lung alone. The only one who could defeat Tai Lung was Takeuchi. The prophecy beckoned such. As Akira walked back, unsheathing Muramasa, he’s find it shaking and exuding her own bloodlust, like a evil genius whose plan was foiled. Now with the truth out, Muramasa was more vocal, ending in a shriek that took the hallway back to the Vault. Excitement came from the blade, seeking blood. Akira would feel even his spirit slowly seeping into the blade, as if robbed by a will.

Muramasa had no nee to hide now. The battle would not just be with Tai Lung.

Akira would open the door, passing through the opening. The Great Vault. The landscape was unfathomable. A humongous steel platform was connected to the opening Akira and Shifu entered. Surrounding the platform were large statutes. Statutes of beings Akira had seen before: the petrified masters of Kung Fu he encountered at the Spirit Realm. At the other end of the large platform was a giant triangle-shaped pillar. Shockingly, at its feet was a Poneglyph, this one blue in color. In front of the Poneglyph was a stand for a sword, now gone. A intimidating figure stood in front of the Poneglyph, his fingers tracing the writings. The figure seemed like he was reading it, or, more specifically, sensing the meaning. Muramasa jumped out of her sheathe - Akira would have to catch it - now glowing red, as if jumping for a fight against what she felt.

A deep voice echoed through the Great Vault, ending in a cackle.

[Tai Lung] “So… that’s the treasure. That’s what this blade does. Tahahahahaha!!!”​

Tai Lung slowly turned, locking eyes with Akira. In his left hand was a blade glowing blue. The other blade of legend.

 

[Sea]

VoP #43
@Ichimonji ​

The boy returned Shifu back to the entrance, which was quickly met with more of the Minks whom seems to be waiting for something – likely anticipation of the master more than the outcome. As Akira heads back to the vault door, Tigress gave a rather stern sentence, that Tai Lung should pay for what he has done. The boy could only nod, after all that what he planned to do. A mistake that he mentioned a while ago that he intends to do so. Behind his hidden identity, the eyes of the boy looked back for the moment. A difficult facial expression to tell, but something dark still lingers behind those eyes.

The boy would later unsheathe Muramasa in front of the vault doors, but this time a powerful shriek could be heard, haunting – as the sound reverberates throughout the hallway and room a sign of released bloodlust as it shakes physically. Akira was right on the mark it seems, that not just what Shifu said revealed the truth about the swords but at the same time, perhaps Muramasa has felt Akira’s thoughts. The bloodlust would seek more than just blood, even the boy could felt his own spirit seemly robbed by the will of the sword. But the boy is equally powerful, his will is not easily taken apart – a strong tug came spiritually, and he would temper the blade for the moment as he sheathes Muramasa. Entering the door, the final battle has finally begun.

Upon entering the door through the vault, the light would overwhelm the boy but only momentarily as he would soon find himself in a complete different environment, something which Akira actually recognized. While he did not fully comprehend his location, he has experienced this in the prison – the Spirit Realm. Or so Akira would believe to be. Beyond that the environment is indescribable though a large steel platform stood between him and a large triangular pillar, more petrified statues could be seen around – further confirming his location to be the Spirit Realm. Though of course, it may not be the same but it would easily prove Kai’s words back at the prison to be somewhat logical, that they would see each other again. Regardless, before him stood another Mink, a large cat whom held a blue blade, glowing intensively even from a far.

Twilight’s Edge.

The boy could only surmise the identity of the sword. Both blades looked different from each other, one red but a katana whilst the other – blue yet oriental. Physically they would not make too much sense to be sister swords. But that is perhaps not what the term sisters would be referring to. Perhaps. It is the souls that housed the swords that eventually gave them the pairing and the history behind them. Akira could not know what the history entails between both swords aside from the paintings and the fair few conversations with the wolves. But enough to make a few theories. The Mink – Tai Lung as he would expect considering Kai is nowhere to be seen, his physical body now much easier to connect as the same one in the prison. In front of him stood a sword stand, emptied perhaps as that would be where Twilight’s Edge is originally placed. And in between the large triangular pillar and the stand is a large slab of stone, cut perfectly square. Yet Akira does not know the identity of it. Having not seen a Poneglyph before. Characters are cut into the stones which Tai Lung would seemingly reads. Just then, Muramasa suddenly jumped out of her sheathe, prompting the boy’s quick reaction to almost instantly catch it by the hilt, firmly as the boy realized he will have trouble using Muramasa, the blade whilst normally docile has suddenly changed its temperament ever since Akira step foot on the valley and now Muramasa’s temperament is now at its peak, making it impossible even for Akira to truly control the blade.

A voice echoed from Tai Lung as he spoke, laughing before eventually turning towards Akira. A silent gaze as both stared at each other. On his right hand, Muramasa’s blood stain blade glowed red, against its sister whom glowed blue. Akira did not speak, but his eyes showed tension – focused but he would made a single yet forceful swing towards his side. It would not take long for Tai Lung to understand. Even without words, the battle ready Assassin could not be persuaded otherwise. Fight is the only option. Tai Lung nor Kai could be allowed to live, or it would be the end of the Valley.

​

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #43
@Sea ​

Jade Palace - The Great Vault
The confrontation. Standing in front of the large glyph was the infamous Tai Lung. Around them was the large arch that seemed to contrast the large room. The statues of the old kung fu masters was not unlike the Spirit Realm. This seemed to be a grounded temple in reverence to that realm. However, the arch was out of place. The arch shimmered routinely, giving a magical hue. That hue was not disturbed even as Tai Lung slowly turned to meet the newcomer. As soon as Twilight's Edge came into view of the boy, it began to glow blue violently. A blue hue that had an aura pure. An aura in direct contrast of Muramasa. An aura that seemed to hug everyone in the room. The blade's aura seemed to focus on the boy holding Muramasa.

In contrast, Muramasa let out her own aura, the one foul. As if the two recognized each other, their aura clashed mid-way, seeing the struggle of two polar opposites. While Twilight's Edge was calm, Muramasa squinted from side to side. Akira would need to use both hands to hold the blade in place. As if a hate true came from Muramasa towards what it felt. Polar opposites. Souls in opposition. Souls with history between each other. The time had finally come.

Tai Lung chuckled at what he saw, before his deep intimidating voice filled the room.

[Tai Lung] “So, you're the one: Takeuchi. Shifu spoke of you - he who would wield the blade of legend. What a joke! You're too late, boy. The Goddess' power is already mine."​

Slowly, Ta Lung drew Twilight's edge, showing her beautiful blade. Akira would find something unexpected. The sheathe seemingly had held the true nature of the aura back. When Twilight's Edge was unsheathed, the aura of the blade shifted. Tai Lung did not realize it, but Akira would. The aura changed from alien to familiar. An aura that Akira had felt before, fondly. But where? Muramasa began to siphon Akira's haki in preparation. An anger unlike anything Akira had felt from the blade before.

The prophecy was unfolding right before the stone statue of Master Oogway, looking down from atop the shimmering arch.

 

[Sea]

VoP #44
@Ichimonji ​

A clash of aura, one foul and the other pure – one of polarizing opposites that would meet with each other. Yet despite both swords would seem to glow brightly with differing colors, one showed a calmer sense of power whilst the other, an unbridled rage that shook uncontrollably from side to side, prompting Akira to tightened his hold onto Muramasa further, he already expected this to happened, thus little is unexpected. Tai Lung would laugh, his voice echoed through the surroundings. Having been aware of Akira, presumably even before the boy made landfall onto the valley, he mocked the boy for being too late, that he has acquired the power of the Goddess. That is to be expected, for the boy have made his choice and path that would led to this outcome.

When Tai Lung would eventually withdraw Twilight’s Edge, the blade’s aura shifted from an air of strange calmness to a sense of familiarity, an aura that the boy felt before, or so this sense of nostalgia fleeting for a moment in his mind. Yet nothing concrete came to mind. Perhaps the blade’s soul has a different aura that provokes such strangeness in general. The boy quickly shifted his attention from the blade to Tai Lung, a battle is about to unfold – he would figure it out later when he is dealt with. Haki eaten by Muramasa permeates the foul aura menacingly. Yet this did not throw the boy any further than one would thought so, after all from what he has learnt so far this reaction was more expected than if there is none. The boy would walk towards the side, circling around Tai Lung as he responded to Tai Lung’s provocation calmly, the opposite of Muramasa. His eyes frowned in kind as he stared intensely at the white-coloured Leopard.

“Nothing is ever too late. Soon the blade will be back at where she belongs and your head rolling on the floor, just like your friend.”

The boy is focused, unlike Shen – Tai Lung does not look like the kind of being that uses trickery, his physical build screams strength and power. But he would not throw away such considerations easily. For expecting the unexpected should be what an Assassin did, though he has not really done it that well for the whole time all things considered.

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #44
@Sea ​

Jade Palace - The Great Vault
The showdown was finally about to begin. The two opposing forces, each holding the respective swords of prophecy, ever in opposition, faced off. The sword themselves, together after all this time, showed their feelings through the aura they exuded. One of love. One of hate. The former was one Akira would recognize, somehow familiar. A love that cradled him. Yet, Muramasa’s aura pushed that away, as if acting to separate the two, itching to destroy the sword, nay, the soul, that inhabited Twilight’s Edge. Souls whose past and nature were obscured.

Akira mixed his will amidst the other three, stating that Tai Lung would fall here. circling the tiger, the martial artist gripped Twilight’s edge, a shadow on his face. As the tiger bent his knees, and the ground cracked beneath him, he roared.

[Tai Lung] “Grrrrrrrr! So be it. You may be The Apprentice, but I AM THE MASTER NOW! I SHALL END THE PROPHECY HERE!!!"​

Suddenly, amidst a burst of will, electricity flowed from his body wildly, crackling and lighting the room up. Lightning that seeemd to mix with his will, once blue, now purple. The stream of electricity enveloped Tai Lung 2 1/2 meters all around him. With a large bellow, Tai Ling lunged forward, his aim and color of armaments propelling him perfectly to intercept Akira as he circled. Sword front, Twilight’s edge was swung horizontally from left to right, held by Tai Lung’s right hand, brimming with Haki. Upon contact, an electricity blast followed, exploding violently.

If there was sword clash, Tai Lung’s aura of electricity would kick in. Anyone within that field of Electro would be zapped, able to seize muscles. A close-range battle was Tai LungKs specialty.

Spoiler: NPC/DPS

Tai Lung DPS: 120: 5. Town Level +2 Haki +3 A Rank = 10. Large Country Level

Tai Lung Electro Field: 81-100: 3. Large Building Level +2 Haki +2 B Rank = 9. Small Country Level

Tai Lung

Level 86 x5 = 430
Strength: 120 (71 +24 race +5 MA +20 item)
Speed: 101 (85 +8 race +5 MA)

Movement: 101​

Reaction: 101​

Vitality: 103 (72 +24 race +5 MA)

Stamina: 101​

Durability: 105​

Haki: 100

Precognition: 100​

Offensive Armaments: 100​

Martial Arts: 100

Kung-Fu: 100​

Ittoryu: 100​

Electro: 100 (perk)​

 

[Sea]

VoP #45
@Ichimonji ​

​

Conversation strikes between Akira and Tai Lung, though the outcome of said words from the former has somewhat riled the latter, causing Tai Lung to roar as he bent his knees – causing a surge of electricity to flow throughout the air around him like an aura, following his will as it eventually envelops Tai Lung over a short radius. A lunge forward, Tai Lung moved to strike Akira. The boy, whilst not having fought incredibly strong Minks like Tai Lung, have the small experience of fighting Shen. Whilst their fighting styles are seemly much more different, the core ability that Akira took issue with has been their Electro, the ability to electrify at close range is a powerful tool to dealing with someone like Akira. And unlike Shen he cannot choose to stay back and overwhelm his opponent like this. The other side of his advantage is he is physically still stronger than Tai Lung, being the owner of a Zoan comes with such enhanced physicality.

Aimed to intercept Akira, Tai Lung charged at the boy like an unstoppable force – and with his powerful electrifying aura, Tai Lung perhaps would find it a surprise that all the boy did was instead stop in his tracks. And then, 2.5 metres in – Akira suddenly coated his entire body in Haki as electricity struck the boy, surging and flowing through into the boy, yet the boy took the electrifying attack with no visible damage beyond light burns – his durability greatly enhanced. Then, Tai Lung would swing Twilight’s Edge, which prompted Akira to move his sword forward – yet as Twilight’s Edge is about to hit Akira, whom seems prepared to block the sword with Muramasa. A sudden change in Akira’s action at the literal last second would likely more than surprise Tai Lung. Instead of a sword meeting with a sword, the blade of Twilight’s Edge became struck cold with Akira’s free hand, blood dripping from the impact of Tai Lung’s strike, following with yet another blast of electricity that would flow into the boy, further damaging the boy – this time with stronger effects than before.

Spoiler

Akira's Durability: 8. Island Level (121+, Zoans only) + CoA: +3 = 11. Small Continent Level

Vs Electric Field: DPR 2 or more below dura: Not very effective

Vs Sword Strike: DPR 1 below dura: somewhat effective

But regardless of the damage that Tai Lung managed to inflict onto Akira, he would find the boy strong and resolute. Unlike the battle with Shen where Akira maintained a distance, this time – the boy completely took the attack, though mostly thanks in part as a Devil Fruit user. On his other hand, Tai Lung would have also quickly notice that instead of using Muramasa to dealt with his attack, the blood-stained sword is stabbed onto the ground as he continues to hold on to it, most likely to ensure that the electricity created by Tai Lung is quickly grounded, aimed to mitigate the paralysing effects of Electro. Another reason for this, though not seemly obvious is that Akira decided not to directly clashed Muramasa with Twilight’s Edge. From what he has learned up till now, the thought of the sister swords fighting did not sit well with him, an intuition or a strong feeling being evoked by the auras clashing between both swords.

With his physical strength still slightly greater than Tai Lung, the Mink would find it difficult to budge Twilight’s Edge, and that once Tai Lung’s electricity has quickly past, Akira immediately pulled Twilight’s Edge and with it the red glowing Muramasa finally leaves the ground. With his sword now swung at the Mink with zero warning diagonally upwards, aimed to cut Tai Lung in half, though more specifically at the half that wield Twilight’s Edge which if successfully would more than likely allow Akira to retrieve Twilight’s Edge from him. Whether or not the move is ultimately successful, Akira would either back of with or without Twilight's Edge in tow, away from Tai Lung's field of Electro or Tai Lung would back off which would then result in him simply maintaining a distance of 2.5m regardless.

Spoiler

Akira's DPR: 6. City Level (121+, Zoans only) + CoA: +3 + A: +3 (Sword Rank) = 12. Large Continent Level

​

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #45
@Sea ​

Jade Palace - The Great Vault
The prophecy of the Apprentice would end here, or so Tai Lung declared. The two masters of sword were to clash, with swords neither of them truly understood. While they may believe this was a fight between two beings, they would be wrong - four clashed. Muramasa was screaming for blood. Twilight’s edge wished for peace, yet neither was heard. Those holding the blades with soul would clash. Tai Lung lunged forward, carrying that field of Electro with him. The tigerKs eyes widened in shock as Akira willingly entered the fray, the boy’s body transforming into a being of dinosaur. To more shock, Akira chose to grab Muramasa’s blade at the cost of blood, redirecting the Electro to counter-attack.

Tai Lung’s eyes widened as he saw his end coming upwards. The martial arts master gripped Twilight’s Edge and pushed back, but it would be too late. That is, if things had gone according to Akira’s plan. Suddenly, it would not be so. The camera slowed. Muramasa came upwards but, suddenly, jerked to the side, as if seeking Twilight’s Edge. The sword moved on its own accord. The blade sliced Tai Lung’s exposed chest as it came upwards, yet only an inch deep. Blood came upwards as the two separated. In a battle to be told, the two would come out the first clash with similar wounds.

Tai Lung panted as he stared at Muramasa, a grin on his face.

[Tai Lung] “Haaa… Haaa… I see. The Goddess does not follow your command. It seems you are not Muramasa’s true master, Takeuchi,”​

​

[Tai Lung] “How splendid! 3 vs. 1 sounds fun! Tahahahha!”​

A shocking revelation. Could Tai Lung be speaking the truth? In the prophecy, Takeuchi was always seen holding Muramasa. The wolves deemed Akira the ancestor, the true bearer of the Goddess. If not Akira, then whom?

As if confirming Tai Lung’s words, Muramasa pulled towards Tai Lung. The blade had been disobeying Akira up to this battle - this was no surprise. Twilight’s Edge remained quiet, even as Tai Lung spread Electro through it, launching a ball of elecricity to the sky. The ball slowly began to grow, feeding off static electricity, a mind of its own. The field of Electro surrounded Tai Lung again. This time, the Electro spread through the ground around Tai Lung, harder to be redirected.

[Tai Lung] “Come, my lost Apprentice. Come to your death!”​

Spoiler: NPC/DPS

Akira DPS: 12. Large Continent Level
Tai Lung Dura: 101-119: 6. City Level + 2 (CoA) = 8. Island Level

= Super effective​

​

 

[Sea]

VoP #46
@Ichimonji ​

The boy swung his sword against Tai Lung, preparing to take out the Mink in one swift swoop – his actions enough to catch him by surprised – further evident that Tai Lung himself could not back off in time as Akira would look to end the fight in one swift motion. Yet, in this one swift motion – Muramasa tucked towards the side instead of following Akira’s intent, instead striking Tai Lung, Muramasa changed the trajectory of Akira’s motion, and in turn aimed to hit Twilight’s Edge – prompting what should have been a strike that could end it all, instead cause the swing to graze Tai Lung instead, slicing Tai Lung’s chest an inch deep. Both would back off, but the failure to take his opponent out, or at least fatally injured him may come to bite him. Despite that, the wound is still quite serious as especially a wound on the chest would have cause bleeding to occur.

Tai Lung’s expression went from shock back to a grin as he mocked Akira’s control over Muramasa. The boy could not control her. Something which Akira in hindsight should have known, he expected this to happen after all. He would not expect the control over Muramasa would be so lacking, or perhaps the better way to put it – Muramasa’s spirit has such powerful hold over itself that Akira could not control the blade well, if at all. It has become clear as day from an outside perspective. Akira and Muramasa, their interests and intentions do not align. Murmasa would continue to attempt to strike Twilight’s Edge instead of Tai Lung. And as the Mink would say, it is almost as if it is a 3v1. The boy is outnumbered, figuratively speaking, or perhaps even literally. As they back off, Akira could only take a peek towards Muramasa, before looking forward – focusing on Tai Lung as he beckons Akira, electricity surrounding the Mink once more.

The boy has no choice; in this particular instance he would have to work with what he has. Swinging Muramasa once more, a Haki coated air blade was unleashed upon from Muramasa’s tip – sent towards Tai Lung. Taking the electric field directly is not something Akira wishes to do, at least not without a plan in mind. And this time, Tai Lung would not be taken upon by surprise. He would need to at least see if a ranged attack such as compressed air blades can disperse the field of electricity from Tai Lung, even temporarily.

Spoiler

Name: Crescent Moon
Rank: C
Description: The user can generate an air blade with a swing of the sword. (31 Shuurin, 31 Strength)

Akira's DPR: 6. City Level (121+, Zoans only) + CoA: +3 + A: +3 (Sword Rank) = 12. Large Continent Level

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #46
@Sea ​

Jade Palace - The Great Vault
The two warriors stared each other down once more. Tai Lung crackled with electricity so fierce, they would make the air around them quiver. The sword of legend glistened at his side, for the most part silent. In ever contrast to the sword of legend at Akira's side, squirming in defiance. Whosever soul it was, the soul was roused at the sight of Twilight's Edge. For what purpose, would be lost in the Prophecy. Tai Lung beckoned the young man to come, as if challenging him. A worthy foe. Yet, Akira would not see Kai anywhere. A disturbing thought indeed. As the pillar behind him stood stalwart in stone, electricity was poured in the ground to stabilize. It needed same. For Akira disturbed the very air.

A windblade burst forth, large and in charge. The attack close din on Tai Lung. The master of Kung Fu stabbed his electricity riddled sword into the ground and used it as a vault, the stab robbing the sword of electricity, and kicking towards the wind blade with a powerful kick, creating seven kung fu kicks in impact. The attacks collided. The wind blade was re-directed, kicked at its side, allowing it to pass unhindered, yet drawing blood on Tai Lung's shoulder. The air blade was lost in the distance of the eerie room.

If those dinosaur eyes were worthy of anything, they'd notice the electricity field, disturbed by the placement of wind particles, lagged off for exactly two seconds, before appearing again. A lag of moments. Yet, it was there. A lesson valuable, but perhaps with a price. For Akira had bigger problems below. A pillar of electricity sought to engulf him from below.

​

[Tai Lung] “SURPISED?! I'm not done...”​

The pillar of electricity did not shake the ground to allow the boy to feel its approach. The pillar of electricity did not make a sound drowned by the clash of the wind blade and kung fu kick. As earth is a conductor, it travelled when Tai Lung stabbed Twilight's Edge into the ground, re-directing the electricity on it. The attack would wound, but mainly aimed to paralyze a few moments. If successful, by the time it had passed, Tai Lung would have already been done with his attack, having vaulted forward sword-in hand, still surrounded by electricity, right leg front. The same kicking technique used earlier, coarse with Electro, this one aiming to engulf Akira's upper body and send him trawling back.

This was a true master of arts.

[Tai Lung] "Heavenly Arts: Saikunju!!!"​

Spoiler: DPS

Akira DPS: 12. Large Continent Level
Tai Lung DPS: 120: 5. Town Level +4 (S+ Rank) + 2 (offensive haki) = 11. Small Continent Level

= Effective Parry (Attack is 1 DPR higher: Overwhelms the weaker attack but loses 5 DPR)​

​

Tai Lung Electro Field: 81-100: 3. Large Building Level +2 Haki +3 A Rank = 8. Island Level

​

Tai Lung DPS: 120: 5. Town Level +4 (S Rank) + 2 (offensive haki) = 11. Small Continent Level

 

[Sea]

VoP #47
@Ichimonji ​

An air blade used to test the waters, it would disrupt the electricity field though only momentarily before it would reappear, however – that is not what Akira paid attention to, the Mink would stab Twilight’s Edge onto the ground, using it to vault forward but not before surging electricity onto the ground as it dissipates into the ground. Tai Lung would attack the air blade, using a series of powerful kicks to collide against the incoming air blade before eventually redirecting it by kicking it aside, prompting the air blade to change its trajectory away into the horizon. However, before Akira could react to Tai Lung, a surge of electricity glow beneath him before electricity suddenly surges upwards towards the boy. Akira did not fight many Minks; thus such ability is something the boy did not really account for considering it did not come from Tai Lung directly. The boy, paralyzed by the electricity though only mitigated through coating his body in Haki completely as he was not able to dodge the surprise attack.

!

Twilight's Edge. The image of Tai Lung stabbing the sword into ground came into mind. Yet the damage is done, and Tai Lung whom now made his way before Akira would strike once more, making use of the temporal paralysis to his advantage as he made another series of kicks towards Akira, surged with electricity.

​

A delivery of kicks was made towards Akira’s upper body, the boy whom paralyze could not move yet barely manages to made very small actions, barely seen by any. The boy’s claws gripped onto the ground hard, using his powerful physical strength and sharp talons to resist Tai Lung’s force as much as possible as Akira sinks his feet inwards. Blood spews from the boy’s mouth, as a crackling sound could be heard from the chest, electricity burning away more skin from Akira as even some of his clothing would quickly shred away. The damage is done, that Tai Lung managed to land quite a powerful blow onto the boy. However, he may realize Akira was not fully sent reeling back away from Tai Lung. The power of Zoan is not to be underestimated.

Spoiler

Akira's Durability: 8. Island Level (121+, Zoans only) + CoA: +3 = 11. Small Continent Level vs 2 attacks in order:
Result #1: DPR 2 or more below dura: Not very effective
Result #2: DPR equal to dura: normal damage

Suddenly, Akira’s free hand almost immediately went for Tai Lung’s outstretched leg – breaking free of the pain and paralysis that took hold of him temporarily. Even with pain and the dissipating paralysis, the electricity has slowed Akira once more. But with this close distance, the difference may have been minimal.

​

The boy looked at Tai Lung for a moment – his eyes turning red, anger consumed the boy as his facial expression changed greatly. Muramasa glows red as Haki pours into the blade, jet black lightning now crackles around the sword. Pain. The boy would pull Tai Lung’s leg inwards towards him if successfully grabbed on, aimed to greatly off balance the in mid-air Tai Lung whom unlikely to be able to easily move in his current position and pose. In that instant, the boy let go of the leg if he did hold on previously and even with the lowered speed, Akira used a Soru-esque technique – in a flash all that remained is a trail of red light that would flash past Tai Lung. Akira swung his blade horizontally as he spun at the same time as he moved past his opponent, generating an air blade at literal point blank, aimed to bifurcate Tai Lung, if not at least cutting off one of his leg and greatly injure his waist.

​

Tai Lung have to die now, for taking the risk of fighting any prolonged battles would likely mean the chances of dealing with both Tai Lung and Kai becomes astronomically lower.

Spoiler

Name: Autumn’s Moon
Rank: S
Description: A variant of the Full Moon technique, rather than an Iai technique – the user spins and generates an air blade while striking the opponent at the same time, increasing the potency and power of the attack. [Pic 1] (91 Shuurin, 91 Strength)

Akira's DPR: 6. City Level (121+, Zoans only) + CoA: +3 + S: +4 (Sword Rank) + CoC: +1 = 14. Moon Level

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #47
@Sea ​

Jade Palace - The Great Vault
Tai Lung showed mastery of Electro Akira had not before seen, or expected. The electricity ran course through Akira, paralyzing him, movements hence slowed. A barrage of kung fu kicks clocked Akira, dealing major damage. Yet, the zoan would show its strength, powering through the electro that even accompanied the kicks. Pulling him in, Tai Lung widened his eyes in terror. Only his free hand with Twilights' edge came to meet Muramasa. Akira appeared behind Tai Lung, as blood splurged upwards dramatically.

The next sound would be a body hitting the ground. Tai Lung had fallen to one knee, blood drenching the ground in front of him. Tai Ling had his leg, though mangled, but his stomach had a large gash, held by those mighty paws. Yet, Tai Lung did not scream. Instead, mad chuckling filled the room. Twilight's Edge was glowed bright. The first time Twilight's Edge glowed so bright.

Twilight's Edge had awakened.

​

[Tai Lung] “Yes.... T-T-That's it... T-T-The s-s-s-soul is charged by the Godesses' meeting at the hands of one of the Apprentices. T-T-Thank you, boy."​

​

[Tai Lung] "S-S-Search your feelings. Y-Y-Youve seen this ambience before. Y-Y-You've severed our world and the Spirit Realm!”​

​

A dawning. The clashing of the two swords of legend, held by one of the Apprentices, competed the ritual. What Muramasa sought since the two swords came into view.

The sound of a blade slashing echoed loud. The sound of tearing followed. Tai Lung had swung Twilight's Edge to the triangular shaped pillar next to the Poneglyph. The inside of the pillar began to shake, before the very air shattered. A shimmering pail much like Akira had seen in Chor-Gom prison appeared. Tai Lung's words would now make sense. The kung fu master statues all round the Great Vault, the breathlessly non-ending space, and the aura within it. Akira could recognize it. The Great Vault was eerily similar to the Spirit Realm. As if the room connected the physical realm to the spirit one. That was the treasure of the Great Vault.

The room shook as a hoof stepped forth from the railing.

[Tai Lung] "TAKE FORM, MASTER KAI!!!"​

From the pailing, he who need not be named appeared. The aura green, completing the trifecta of blue (Twilight's Edge), red (Muramasa), and green (Kai), surrounded him. The eyes as malevolent as nigh. King's Haki eneveloped the room, cracking the pillar he came from. Awakened.

The green aura that enveloped the land was simply an aura. The real deal walked y the pillars of the Great Vault. Akira had unwittingly released Kai into the world.

​

(pic even has the pillar behind him!)​

 

[Sea]

VoP #48
@Ichimonji

A strike of anger. The boy swung, though he would not expect Tai Lung still manage to mount a defense to Akira’s offense, and perhaps a stroke of luck that Tai Lung despite his shock managed to do so, for Akira’s swing did not just swung against Twilight’s Edge but also completely able to push through the clash of sword, cutting straight into Tai Lung’s waist and leg, mangling one of his legs and slicing into the Mink’s stomach. As the boy would swing his sword once more, performing a chiburi to ‘clean’ the sword. The clash between Muramasa and Twilight’s Edge however would grant Tai Lung’s mission a success, though something which Akira himself originally intent not to do so, yet the prolonging of this fight – it became the only path forward. Thrown back to the pillar next to the poneglyph Tai Lung did not scream, but unbridled with joy and madness Tai Lung told him to search his feelings for he would recall a similar experience, a feeling of the changing atmosphere.

Here, Tai Lung’s words would have made more sense to their current environment. This isn’t the Spirit World per se. It is the in-between. Akira’s action has linked the worlds together. The room would shake as a hoof stepped forth. Conqueror’s Haki envelops and engulfs the room – following the green aura that permeates from the pillar as Kai finally appears. Tai Lung would shout, as if in reverence of Kai but as he did – Akira suddenly swings Muramasa once more, this time without even looking back at Tai Lung, a powerful air blade, thinly veiled with Haki aimed to behead Tai Lung – making use of his current state of body that he is unlikely to dodge and perhaps in his success that may not even react in time. The boy wasn’t about to let the worst situation to happen. As such he decided to prevent it right now.

Spoiler

Name: Autumn's Reach
Rank: B
Description: By using air blade in such a concentrated and thin manner, the user is able to lengthened the swings of his katana by several meters, thus increasing the range of his strikes. [Pic 1] (51 Shuurin, 51 Strength)

Akira's DPR: 6. City Level (121+, Zoans only) + CoA: +3 + A: +3 (Sword Rank) = 12. Large Continent Level

With his attack, it should be fatal enough even for someone like Tai Lung. Which would take him out at the very least, preventing Tai Lung from joining the battle. Kai aside, Akira still have no answer to, but perhaps with his arrival from another realm – the rules may change, or they may not. It is easier for Akira to assume the same result. Yet the boy’s notable exhaustion has somewhat become apparent. After all, fighting Shen and then Tai Lung with injuries piling onto each other, yet the boy is far from done. A few huff and puffs, the boy slowed his breathing once more. Pain and injuries are one thing. But the boy has a goal. That is stop Tai Lung and Kai. While he would not expect to be the one that would unleash Kai upon this world, he however went into this fight expecting to fight both. Akira’s resolve would be the only reason he stood before both of them, or in this case one after another. Had he not care about the denizens of the Valley he would not be here.

It started from his curiosity, his selfishness to gain insight of Muramasa and himself. And now, his selflessness would put himself at harm’s way, at death’s door to do what is right. A trait not shared amongst his peers. And most importantly, a trait not shared with Muramasa.

Suddenly, his aura flared up once more – a clash of Conqueror’s Haki. He has no answer. But he would have to think of something on the fly. That is all he can do. The boy jumped forth to meet Kai.

 

[Ichimonji]

Valley of Peace #48
@Sea ​

Jade Palace - The Great Vault
Kai was unleashed on the world. The green aura burst into King's Haki, clashing with Akira's; a stalemate. The most terrible evil force the island has seen came through the Spirit World, the shimmering shutting behind him. Tai Lung laughed maniatically, proclaiming he would now be dubbed the 'Dragon Warrior'. A desperate wind blade came to claim Tai Lung, who turned and widened his eyes. The wind blade met blade at its side, parried to the distance. The aura that was at the pillar had disappeared and appeared in front of Tai Lung. Twilight's Edge glowing blue, the blade had met the wind blade, now in the portly hands of the Great Kai, staring down Akira. This was no ordinary foe.

Tai Lung slowly got up, bandaging his wounds with his torn pant sleeve, wrapped around. Kai slowly rose Twilight's Edge towards Akira menacingly, his there hand collecting aura. Yet, his words seemed to speak of another. The deep strong voice of the Great Kai filled the room.

​

[Kai] “A prophecy a thousand years in the making. Finally, it is upon us. Here, the two apprentices have gathered, blurring the line between the Spirit World and the Real World. Ancient Power finally within my reach!"​

The apprentices have gathered. The two blades began to glow upon those words. What did Kai mean with those words? The great burly man began to speak once more, eyes glowing green.

[Kai] "Care to hear the prophecy? After all, it tells not the past, but the future: yours. Do you not understand, boy? The warrior depicted in the paintings all across the land for centuries. One of the apprentices of Master Oogway holding the blade of legend..."​

​

[Kai] "IS YOU!!"​

A descending bass line took the room. Kai revealed Akira was not the "ancestor"; he was the warrior himself. One of the two warriors of legend, destined to battle. It clicked into place. The story of the young boy in the village, ravaged by a shadow. It did tell the tale of the Apprentices: Akira's own story. The Prophecy was not in the past, but the present and future. Would Akira hear the prophecy? Kai asked if he wanted to hear it. As if the bull's words themselves were part of the prophecy. Would Akira be calm enough to hear them now? Master Oogway's words would echo within him.

“Your mind is like the sea, my friend. When it is agitated, it becomes difficult to see. But if you allow it to settle, the answer becomes clear.”

Back in the hall, a thumping sound approached, the earth cracking beneath the portly feet. The shadow ran past the Furious Five and Shifu, straight towards the Great Vault. Anyone with any semblance of Color of Observation could feel it, power en masse approaching fast. Tigress grew cold, eyes wide.

[Tigress] "H-HEY! STOP HIM!"​

 

[Sea]

VoP #49
@Ichimonji ​

The boy attempted to rid one of the two adversaries he would have to face, sending an air blade towards Tai Lung as he focused on Kai. Yet the strange powers of Kai and perhaps Twilight’s Edge allowed the Mink to teleport himself to stand between Tai Lung and Akira, deflecting the air blade away. Something which even Akira’s reaction was not able to discern instantly – a problem that would eventually exacerbate should the boy not deal with immediately. Yet not all is completely out of the boy’s hand. The injury to Tai Lung remains to be rather serious one, movement be damned, worst for wear than even Akira in his current state, no matter how much rest he does, the damage to his leg and waist would not disappear for days. One small mistake and likely not even Kai can save Tai Lung.

Kai would finally speak, speaking about the prophecy that is constantly being bombarded upon Akira ever since he set foot into the Valley. The boy was asked if he would be interested in it, for the prophecy was meant for the future – his future. Yet the boy did not seem taken aback by the change of information. One thing the boy learned from his journey up till now – he has long understood that he would have to accept the information regardless of how absurd it is. Too many anomalies to be logically analysed. Not only that, but given what Kai has said also corroborates the paintings in the prison that is strikingly similar to his own past. His own tragedy. He questioned the authenticity of the paintings and even questioned the history but received no answers. At least for now, one part of the story made more sense than before. The only remaining question is the final painting. What does it mean?

The boy has no way to confirm Kai’s words, Oogway is long gone. Words echoed through the Assassin’s mind, though not in particularly good state which given the injuries sustained from Tai Lung’s attack, the boy surprisingly kept calm. Whether it is the words of Oogway or due to his training that one would expect, the boy could only respond to Kai’s words.

“Humour me.”

Why not? It is a risk – time for Akira to rest his energy even for a little bit and figure out something to deal with Kai and Tai Lung, which is also time for both of them to find a way to deal with Akira, especially for one of them, even a little rest can be enough to revitalize oneself. A shadow approaches. But for Akira, the boy himself could not let himself by distracted by another thing, for any distraction may allow them to strike. Cautious. The boy’s breathing slowed though maintain slight irregularities. Anyone with experience could tell even the beatings the boy took perhaps unnecessarily does have its toll.