A Challenge Before Agni

[MarkWarrior]

A Challenge Before Agni

"Sorry, but you're not going to become Fire Lord today," Zuko said as he jumped down off of Appa. "I am."

"You're Hilarious!" Azula laughed.

"And you're going down," Katara stepped forward.

"Wait," Azula stopped the Fire Sage from placing the headpiece in her hair. "You want to be Fire Lord? Fine. Let's settle this. Just you and me, brother." She smiled, a menacing glint in her eyes. "The showdown that was always meant to be. Agni Kai!"

"You're on," Zuko stated firmly as Azula smirked.

"What are you doing?" Katara asked as she looked at Zuko. "She's playing you. She knows she can't take us both so she's trying to separate us."

"I know," Zuko said as he continued to look at his little sister. "But I can take her this time."

"Even you admitted to your uncle that you would need help facing Azula," Katara replied.

"There's something off about her," Zuko responded. "I can't explain it, but she's slipping. And this way, no one else has to get hurt."

—
—

The brother and sister faced away from each other, each in a meditative pose before standing up and facing each other.

"I'm sorry it has to end this way, brother," Azula said as she threw off her cloak.

"No you're not," Zuko said as he settled into his stance, prepared for what his sister would be bringing to bear.

Shifting forward, Azula fired off a massive cloud of blue fire, Zuko's responding yellow and orange stonewalling the blue wave as it moved forward, eventually both petering out.

Azula constantly moved forward, her stance fluid as she kicked fire at her older brother while his stance remained firm as he deflected or blocked the incoming fire blasts.

Then, spinning around, Azula launched a massive wave of flame at Zuko, only for him to slide into an earthbending stance that he had learned from Toph as he split the blue flames with his own, the flames dying out rapidly after that.

Setting his stance while Azula panted, Zuko launched his own attack; his sister narrowly avoiding the flames before bracing and using her own flames to launch herself at her brother.

Twisting in a stance he had seen Aang use against him many times over the last many moons, Zuko launched himself up and launched into a spinning kick that stalled Azula's flames before diving down and driving through into an attack. His sister, continuing to rocket around him, found herself barely keeping ahead of her brother before he used another airbending move learned from Aang to kick fire in every direction, one of the blasts hitting his sister and knocking her to the ground.

"No lightning today?" Zuko challenged. "What's the matter? Afraid I'll redirect it?" Zuko confidently stepped forward.

"I'll show you lightning!" Azula retorted as she split her chi, gathering the energy needed as the electricity sparked around her before her eyes latched onto her target. Pointing her fingers at Katara, Azula unleashed her lightning, knowing that Zuko wouldn't have time to set himself properly to redirect lightning. Zuko, jumped in front of Katara, pulling the lightning in and attempting to channel it in, down, up, and out but didn't manage to avoid his heart in time.

In one world, Zuko redirected the Lightning up and into the sky and Katara went on to win the Agni Kai. That is not this world.

Zuko, still focusing on trying to redirect the lightning, twitched wrong and the lightning returned to the one who sent it; striking Azula and sending her to the ground.

"Zuko!" Katara screamed as she moved forward, her water skin meeting her hand as she pulled water in to try and heal him.

"Don't," Zuko said as he felt his heart start to slow. "Go take care of her," he nodded towards Azula. "And tell Uncle that I love him, Zuko closed his eyes as his heart stopped beating.

"No!" Katara slammed her hand on Zuko's chest as she tried healing him, only to stop minutes later after seeing that it was making no difference.

"You better still be alive!" Katara snarled as she moved toward Azula, water out of her water skin and ready to strike.

"Hahahahaha," Azula laughed. "Zuzu doesn't look so good," She crawled over the ground next to her brother and stopped as she saw he was dead. "Looks like I'm the true Fire Lord as dictated by Agni Kai," Azula broke into laughter as her own body eventually stopped working for her and she collapsed, dead next to her brother. Both brother and sister dead due to the broken world left to children to fix.

Katara just knelt beside Zuko's body and cradled his head in her lap as she wept, the tears flowing from her eyes and soaking her tunic as the Imperial Palace began to burn down around her.

---

Zuko opened his eyes, expecting to find himself in the spirit world, and was met with the face of a Dragon.

"It was not supposed to end this way," The Dragon spoke but its mouth did not move. "And yet, the world has already shifted away, fate and destiny ever-changing."

"Agni," Zuko knelt.

"You are not finished yet, little dragon," Agni said amusingly. "There are those who have need of you."

"I am ready to enter the cycle of reincarnation," Zuko stated. "And I accept responsibility for my actions in this life."

"Keep your fire burning strong," Agni spoke into Zuko's mind. "You will need it where you are going, little dragon."

–
–

"Azula," Agni spoke to the young girl. "You are interesting, and fate has ever conspired against you."

"Fate," Azula scoffed. "I make my own fate."

"So you do," Agni smirked. "As has your brother before you. Now, you and your brother are faced with a choice; a challenge, as it were."

Zuko appeared in the space beside Azula, still braced and ready for what may happen.

"You have both invoked my name for your Agni Kai," Agni projected. "And yet, there was no clear winner of said challenge. So I have decided on a new challenge for you. The rules are simple, survive. The one who manages to outlive the other is the winner of this challenge before Agni. Now, begone with you both, there is much to see in this new world."

 

[MarkWarrior]

Chapter 2

July 1, 2997, Imperial City, Luthien

Jasmine smiled as she held her newborn son, her aches and pains seeming to ease as she looked at the little one.

“What is his name?” She asked her husband as a rare smile spread across his face while he watched his wife holding his firstborn and only son.

“Theodore,” Takashi spoke as he leaned over and looked at the sleeping infant. “It is a strong name, and one that will carry him well.”

“It is a good name,” Jasmine said tiredly as she laid her head down on the pillow. “One that brings honor to the Dragon.”

“Do you want me to hold him?” Takashi asked. “I can get a wet nurse in here if you need some rest.”

“I think I will hold him a while longer,” Jasmine spoke calmly. “It is not every day that we get to bring our first child into the world.”

Takashi stilled for a moment, Jasmine spotting the smile disappear from his face for a moment before it resumed as her husband stepped forward.

“Allow me to hold him for a short while,” Takashi said softly. “You should rest. It was a long birth, and I would not have you strain yourself.”

Takashi stepped forward, taking his son out of Jasmine’s arms and cradling Theodore as he sat back down in the chair that had been brought in so that he could remain by his wife’s bedside.

The room became silent as Jasmine finally succumbed to her exhaustion, her head turning to the side as her breathing became gentle and she drifted away from the land of those who were awake.

Looking down at Theodore Kurita, Takashi smiled for a brief moment as his son latched onto a finger, the tiny hand taking hold of the finger and refusing to let go as Takashi placed his son down in the warm cradle that had been set aside for after the birth.

Sighing, Takashi turned to leave the room before looking back with a sigh, the picturesque moment taking its place in his memories, permanently establishing that it would last forever.

Facing the door, Takashi schooled his face as he left the room.

“My son requires a wet nurse,” Takashi said to the staff who were patiently waiting in the hallway for instruction. “And fetch some food for my wife, when she awakes she will be in need of sustenance.”

---

Takashi knelt in perfect seiza, his head down as he awaited the words of his father, the various members of the court silent for once as the gemstones in the map on the ceiling glowing in the light as the grand hall seemingly echoed with silence.

The Coordinator, Hohiro Kurita was in a blood-red Hakama, with a black sash and gold stitching, his katana and wakizashi sitting on the arm of the throne as he surveyed the court.

“Sho-Sa Kurita,” Hohiro Kurita spoke. “Report,” the command resounded in the hall, the sound shattering the silence.

“The House of the Dragon has a new egg, Coordinator-Sama,” Takashi spoke formally and loudly. “He bears the name of Theodore Kurita, may he bear it well.”

“Indeed,” Hohiro said stoically. “The Dragon welcomes this news with joy, much celebration will be had throughout the realm.”

---

“Sho-Sa Kurita, you are summoned to the dojo,” A palace servant bowed low. “Your brother has issued a challenge.”

“I will endeavor to meet the challenge then,” Takashi replied as he dismissed the servant.

Navigating the various passageways of the palace, Takashi eventually reached the Kendo Dojo where his brother was waiting.

Sliding the door closed behind him, Takashi raised an eyebrow at what his little brother had set aside.

“Do you not remember what happened the last time we were drunk?” Takashi asked his little brother.

“Hai,” Miyamoto grinned. “The Academy was never quite the same. But it is not every day that we celebrate the birth of a new dragon,” Miyamoto handed a saucer full of sake to his brother while grabbing one of his own, a small pitcher of the alcohol being warmed by a small device built into the tray. “Besides,” Miyamoto’s face turned sober. “I heard what the doctors had to say about Jasmine, and I would share in your grief in the way that I know best.”

“Kampai!” the two brothers raised their saucers and downed the drink, the warmed rice wine sliding down smoothly.

“I cannot partake as we normally do, brother,” Takashi sighed as he accepted another saucer. “I wish to be by Jasmine’s side when she awakes.”

“Then I will accompany you there,” Miyamoto said as he settled on the ground with his legs crossed. “No Samurai stands alone against the world.”

“Hai,” Takashi gave a sad smile. “The Dragon stands behind us all.”

---

Jasmine woke up from her sleep feeling better than she had since she had given birth to Theodore, gently opening her eyes to look around the room for her husband and son.

As her eyes traced the room, they eventually fell on a picture that would not be out of place in a commoner’s household, in the private room her husband held their son, his head tucked into the side of a chair as the two of them slept, with Takashi’s brother Miyamoto asleep in a chair where he could see the door.

Smiling at the sight, Jasmine treasured this moment, knowing that it would not last forever and that soon her husband and her brother-in-law would once again be far from her as they served in their positions in the Second and Third Sword of Light.”

“Husband,” Jasmine spoke gently, trying to wake Takashi up.

The man startled for a minute, then fully woke up as the bundle in his arms began to cry.

“Bring him here,” Jasmine smiled. “He probably needs to be fed. And while he is feeding you can tell me what it is that troubles you so.”

Takashi handed Theodore over to his wife, a solemn expression on his face.

“The doctors have informed me that it is unlikely you will survive should we attempt to have another child,” Takashi took his wife’s hand into his own.

“Is there anything that can be done?” Jasmine asked, a tear trailing down her face.

“I am afraid not,” Takashi shook his head. “Not with the means available to us.”

“Then it is left to our brother to ensure that the Dragon’s line continues to be strong,” Jasmine said as she stroked Theodore’s little head as he nursed. “For I am unable to do my duty.”

“You have done enough,” Takashi laid a kiss on Jasmine’s forehead. “Your duty has been fulfilled, now it is time for you to rest.”

 

[Ihopethisworks]

So who’s Azula going to reincarnate into? Melissa Steiner? It would funny if Azula’s fighting for the good guys while Zuko’s fighting for the Fire Nation in space.

 

[MarkWarrior]

So who’s Azula going to reincarnate into? Melissa Steiner? It would funny if Azula’s fighting for the good guys while Zuko’s fighting for the Fire Nation in space.

You'll see.

 

[Bear Ribs]

Melissa Steiner would give us a 13-year age difference which hardly seems fair.

My first thought is Romano Liao just because of how similar both Daddy's Girls are but that's also probably too obvious. Hmm, Rhonda Snord's born within a year of Theodore...

 

[MarkWarrior]

Chapter 3
July 5, 2997, Celestial Palace, Sian

Romano stepped into the garden, the clouds dark with the tears they held back. Her white mourning cheongsam shone brightly against the flowers and greenery.

Her hands shaking in rage, Romano fell into a stance that was as familiar to her as breathing, her feet slid into place as her eyes closed. Her hazel eyes blazing as her eyes snapped open, and her fist lashed out as she moved through a kata that was natural to her. As she moved through the basics of the form, Romano poured her rage and emotions into her movements. With every punch or kick she tried to set the garden on fire. Then, it began to rain, the clouds released their heavy drops of water as Romano continued her movements through the rain, the white ceremonial dress clinging to her skin as she moved into more advanced forms.

–
–

Candace watched her sister from the doorway, the younger daughter of Maximillion Liao had remained uncharacteristically stoic as their mother had been reported dead. She had even remained silent during the funeral and afterward, seemingly wishing to grieve in peace until now.

Candace waited until Romano finished whatever kata it was that she was going through, the somewhat familiar motions coming to an abrupt stop as a break in the pattern was revealed, the rain continuing to fall as the older sister moved out to speak.

“Show me,” Candace said as she matched the basic stance that Romano was in.

Romano didn’t speak for a moment, simply breathing deep as she seemed to still, all emotion leeching itself from her form before she nodded and began showing Candace the basic forms of what she knew to be firebending stances but in this world would have been called a martial art.

After moving through the various basic katas with her older sister, Romano eventually started to slow down, the energy levels of her five-year-old body not able to keep up with what she thought she should be able to do.

Candace, seeing that her sister was flagging, went over and helped her get out of the rain, both girls being met by a servant with towels as they both moved inside to the warm air of the celestial palace.

“We’ll find out what happened,” Candace whispered to her little sister as she pulled her in for a rare hug, the opportunity rarely given in the palace environment. “We’ll make whoever is responsible for what happened to mother pay. I swear it.”

Romano met her sister’s eyes, a fierce look in her own. “I will ensure that whoever arranged this burns.”

The two sisters then dried themselves off as they sat in mutual silence, the pact of revenge settling a bond between them.

“I will arrange it so that we may get further training in the arts,” Candace nodded at Romano. “You have demonstrated considerable talent for someone who has only observed those katas before.”

“Thank you, honored sister,” Romano inclined her head in a slight bow. “I am grateful that you chose to join me in my meditation.”

“If we are to survive then we must keep a watchful eye on Anastasiya Teng,” Candace informed Romano. “She has already grown close to father and seems to be aiming to take mother’s place. Candace looked at Romano and nodded at the rage she still saw in her eyes. “It is possible that she did in fact arrange for mother’s unfortunate accident as the rumors say. But we must ensure that we wait until the right time to strike.”

“It is a long game then,” Romano replied as she began drying her hair. “I will make the request to father for the training if you will locate those who would be our allies in the future. I am younger than you, and they would likely think that I was merely playing a game.”

Candace nodded as an introspective look crossed her young face. “It will take time for us to accomplish our goal. So let us get inside and to the baths for now. One thing at a time is best for us.”

---

“Honored Father,” Romano and Candace both knelt before their father as he sat on the Celestial Throne. “I request that My honored older sister and I be trained in the ways of those who are wiser and more skilled than I. The way of the Shaolin Warriors that are a part of my history appeals to myself and my Honored sister.”

“Oh?” Maximilian raised an eyebrow. “And what benefits would the House of Liao receive from this arrangement.”

“My sister and I would gain discipline,” Candace spoke up. “We would also be better conditioned as your heirs,” Candace was unable to find anything else to support her argument while Maximillian smiled in amusement at his young daughters.

“There are some other benefits that you missed,” The Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation continued to smile as he began to instruct his daughters. “Martial arts have long been a respected part of our traditions, and having one or both of you continue in said traditions would support the Confederation as a whole. There are other, less common benefits but you will find those out as you train,” Maximilian inhaled and then loudly proclaimed. “My daughters have requested training in the ways of martial prowess. I see their desires and would have them granted in a way most fitting. Get me a messenger. We will be sending a notice to all of the monasteries and schools in the Confederation to send their wisest and most talented masters. The one who proves themself worthy will then be permitted to instruct my daughters.”

“We thank you for your granting of our request, Honored Father,” Romano said as she continued to kneel.

“Do not thank me yet,” Maximilian stood up from the throne. “Before you are to be instructed you must prove yourself worthy of instruction. “

Candace and Romano met each other’s eyes, a small spark of fear exchanged between the two of them as a dragon statue in the throne room seemed to shine golden in the background, its eyes seemed alive as it watched the proceedings.

“Now, it is late, and it is time for you two to rest,” Maximilian gestured to a handful of servants. “I shall decide on your challenge come morning," His eyes narrowed. "Do not disappoint me.”

 

[Bear Ribs]

Guess I shouldn't have second-guessed myself about Romano then.

 

[MarkWarrior]

Guess I shouldn't have second-guessed myself about Romano then.

Meh. I thought it was fairly obvious. This is going to end up being a study on families just as much as anything.

 

[Bear Ribs]

Meh. I thought it was fairly obvious. This is going to end up being a study on families just as much as anything.

Oh, I thought it was too, I actually just went too deep as my post before the latest chapter said, and decided it was too obvious.

 

[Blasterbot]

that is gonna be interesting. considering how their nations are gonna be temporarily allied with the threat of Fed Com. it will be nice to see a perhaps kinder take on the Dracs though.

 

[MarkWarrior]

Chapter 4

June 7, 3000, Imperial City, Luthien

“Tai-Sa Kurita, tell me, how fare my Otomo today?” Coordinator Hohiro Kurita asked from his throne as his son knelt at the foot of the throne. “I understand that you organized several training exercises with the Second Sword of Light today.”

“Hai Coordinator-Sama,” Takashi responded, his face seemingly set in steel. “The Otomo is as skilled as ever, and the training exercises went as well as could have been expected.”

“It is good to hear that things are as they should be,” Hohiro proclaimed, gesturing for Takashi to take his place as the head of the Otomo once again. “The Dragon shall continue onward in strength.”

The Courtiers whispered a bit before continuing their politicking, the factions breaking away to continue their discussions that had begun before the Coordinator summoned Tai-Sa Kurita in for a debriefing of the training exercises.

“It has occurred to me that I have not piloted the Flaming Sword in quite some time,” Hohiro muttered within earshot of only his closest guards and Takashi. “Arrange it for me, Tai-Sai, I desire to feel the roar of a fusion engine underneath me once again.”

“Hai, Coordinator-Sama,” Takashi gave a bow. “I shall see to it immediately.”

–
–
Takashi observed the three-year-old Theodore Kurita as the child went through the basic Kendo katas that he had been taught so far, the small frame straining to achieve perfection in every movement before shifting to the next.

“Kurita-Sama,” the master of the dojo, an old man brought the Tai-Sa’s attention back to what he was saying. “Your son is talented in the ways of the blade, but we cannot push beyond his limits lest we begin to strain his growth. He may be capable of pushing past those limits in the short term, but long-term growth would be hampered.”

“See to it that he continues at the pace that is proper for his growth,” Takashi said as Jasmine nodded. “The Dragon will e strong.”

“I thank you for your patience, Kurita-Sama,” the old man bowed. “It shall be as you desire.”

“Theodore,” Jasmine called once they were alone in the dojo. “Come, it is time that you washed and we dined, your cousin Isoroku is going to be spending the evening with us.”

“Yes mother,” Theodore walked into the room, sweat dripping off of his small form and being absorbed by the white gi that he wore. “Tou-Sama,” Theodore bowed low to his father, missing the small smile that flashed across his father’s face.

“Come, Theodore-Kun,” Jasmine smiled. “Let us get you washed up and ready to spend time with Isoroku-Kun.”

---

June 15, 3000, Imperial City, Luthien

“It is good to be in a mech again,” Hohiro said to himself as he powered on his Warhammer, the sound of the computer’s voice soothing to his ears after many hours spent in the throne room.

“Voiceprint authorization required,” the voice of Betty said as the computers began their boot-up sequence.

“I do not care what comes after,” Hohiro stated the first part of the passphrase.

“Voiceprint match,” Betty replied. “Continue verification.”

“I have seen dragons on the wind of morning and have flown with them,” Hohiro finished his passphrase and the Flaming Sword’s full array of weapons was unlocked to his satisfaction. “Tai-Sa Kurita, this is the Coordinator, I trust that you have set aside a challenge appropriate for the Dragon.”

“Hai Coordinator-Sama,” Takashi’s voice responded from his Battlemaster. “Come, the Otomo will escort you to the training grounds promptly.”

–
–

“Ahh, it is good to get the blood flowing once again,” Hohiro said as he dismounted from his mech, the technician taking his cooling vest and neurohelmet. “I can see that you are still unsatisfied with your appointment to command the Otomo.”

“I am satisfied with serving the Dragon wherever I am needed,” Takashi responded.

“You can admit that you miss serving on the frontlines facing the Davions,” Hohiro laughed. “Were it that I was a mere Tai-Sa again, I would be out there facing our foes and bringing them to their knees. Alas, I am chained to this throne and have to lead the Combine from it. The Otomo is a position of honor, and I recognize that you would rather be with the Second Sword of Light.”

“I am content with wherever I am needed, Coordinator-Sama,” Takashi bowed low. “I serve at the Dragon’s pleasure.”

“Takashi,” Hohiro said in a rare breach of protocol with a sigh. “Sometimes our duty to the Combine demands things of us that we do not desire to do. Enjoy your position while you can, it is not often that I have time to step away from the affairs of state to enjoy time in a mech once again,” Hohiro looked contemplative for a minute. “I desire to leave a legacy to my grandchildren and have already spoken to Miyamoto in regard to what I will provide for Isoroku. I would leave the Flaming Sword to Theodore once he is able to pilot a mech. It will serve him well as he moves up in life.”

“Hai Tou-Sama,” Takashi gave a small bow. “I will follow your wishes as best able.”

---

Theodore moved through his Kata, the Shinai remaining steady as he moved through the motions, the wooden practice sword allowing him to focus on his meditations as he breathed deep, the peace of the palace filling him as his small body began to sweat.

“Theodore-Kun, are you practicing again?” His mother called from the other room. “You know better than to be practicing right now. You’ll strain your body and prevent your growth.”

“Hai, Okaa-sama,” Theodore said with a small smile as he put the Shinai away.

“Now, come get ready for your calligraphy class, you and Isoroku have much still to learn.”

Theodore smiled as his mother helped him straighten his kimono and hakama before sending him on his way, the feeling of love flowing from both his mother and his father was everpresent in this life. And while he didn’t understand everything yet, he knew that there was something more around.

In the distance, a small dragon painting glowed red, the eyes flashing as Theodore began moving to his calligraphy class, the four-year-old just now beginning to realize who he really was.

 

[MarkWarrior]

Chapter 5

January 30, 2999, Celestial Palace, Sian


"Now, what can the two of you tell me about the current combatants?" Maximilian asked his daughters who were sitting beside him in the viewing booth for this round of the Tournament of Celestial Wisdom. "You should have some idea of how things are shifting and moving by now."

"The Warrior Houses are attempting to eliminate the CCAF from the running," Romano said as she indicated a small group of martial artists in the robes marked with the insignia of the various Warrior Houses. "I am not sure how they plan on doing so, but it is plain to see that it is happening."

"Currently there are more than a few noble houses trying to maneuver themselves into a position where they can form closer ties to our house," Candace shifted her eyes to a few specific noble families that she was allowing to draw closer. "Some of them we can turn against each other, and there are some that will grant us some advantages to draw close to."

"There are a few houses with sons and daughters that are near your age," Max reclined on his throne. "But that is something to consider at another time. Now daughters, I shall tell you what it is that you missed. The Sheng family is attempting to have their daughter become my new Consort while the Xiangs are vying to receive more stability after the latest Davion raids. Pavel Ridzik is slowly working his candidates through the tournament in order to shift more funding over to both the CCAF and his own personal forces. There are countless other political moves that are happening, but those are the most relevant in this moment." Max paused in thought as he considered what to tell his daughters. "You see, this tournament serves as more than just a way to identify a future teacher. It is a place where each of the parts that make up our Nation are demonstrating their strength to the people and to those who would ally with them for a time."

---

The rest of the tournament passed by as a blur in Romano's mind, with moments of clarity punching through the haze as the days wore on.

The scheming and politicking going on that Candace maneuvered them around and through. The gaze of some of the courtiers as they stared at the two young girls and their toddling brother.

Romano remembered the cheers of the crowd as they neared the middle of the tournament, the sun beating down on the fighters below as the roar increased when one fighter would get the upper hand over another.

And the silly things, the candy that you managed to get as the tournament wound on, the spun sugar sticking to her fingers as it melted and the sweet bean paste of the Moon Cakes lingering on her tongue.

The spice of the single sip of vodka and the laughter of her father and sister as she coughed and sputtered at the burning sensation of the drink.

Then the tournament split off, the midway point being a celebration as the New Year was celebrated. Colored Lanterns filled the sky, and fireworks detonated, some large enough to shake the very ground and others being brilliant displays of the Confederation's might.

The tournament continued after that, with some upsets and more dealings done both within and just outside of where Candace and Romano can hear. There are couplings and nobles that are discovered having daliances by servants. Servants that giggle when they think no one is looking as they gossip about what is happening.

But that all slips into the background for Romano. Later, she will care about the politicking and everything else. But for now, her eyes are only on the tournament below.

---

Only four fighters remain…

The politicking is done, all eyes are focused entirely on the four fighters below as the referees give the instructions for the match.

The first match of the set of four is a visual spectacle, both masters of their craft moving and flowing through as they fight as if it's a Shogi match. Every move a countermove to go against it and vice versa.

The Second match, is anything but graceful. No, this is a brutal fight to the death. With one man taking the offensive and battering the other man down until he had submitted or died.

The other two seem to be the usual matches between master Martial artists. A mutual respect and a fight to be honored as the differences in martial arts styles makes itself known to both the spectators and those who are fighting.

The semifinals proceed in a similar manner, with the brutal one taking out another master through sheer momentum, the normally composed man a bloody mess after the match.

And then there were two.

Author's Note: Sorry for the delay on this. I didn't want to get bogged down in a tournament arc. And took a while to figure out how I wanted to write this chapter.

 

[MarkWarrior]

Chapter 6

February 2, 3002 Luthien, Draconis Combine

"Tai-Sa," Hohiro Kurita looked at his son. "One of the Dragon's brood has died where he should not have. It is one thing to meet our enemies in glorious battle and to be slain on the field. It is yet another to die where there were no foes.

Takashi, I entrust you the task of investigating this. Let none stand against the Dragons will. Use what resources you desire, I want to find out exactly who is responsible for this."

"Hai, Coordinator-Sama," Takashi bowed low. "I seek to follow the will of the Dragon."

Takashi turned and made his way out of the hall, nodding to the Otomo that stood on guard as he did so.

"Chu-i Hikigaya, you are to send for an aide from the ISF and allow no one aside from them to enter, I have much to do if I am to serve the Dragon's will."

"I will see to it that it is done, Tai-Sa," Hikigaya gave a short bow before moving to his guard position, while reaching for a comms device that rested on his hip to call for the aide.

–
–

"Kurita-Sama," Jasmine greeted her husband with a small smirk and a certain look in her eye as he entered their quarters. "How may I be of service?"

Takashi locked the door and waited until he was certain there was no one around before embracing his wife, pulling her close and breathing in the sweet perfume that she adorned herself with.

"Theodore is with Isoroku and Miyamoto," Jasmine whispered into Takashi's ear, slowly dragging him back and into the bedroom. "Come, let me ease your troubles for a little while."

A samurai finding comfort in the arms and ear of a beautiful and soft-spoken woman was a tale that had existed for as long as Samurai themselves had. And so, Takashi followed his wife into the bedroom and closed the door behind him with a soft click.

---

Two months later…

Hohiro frowned as he looked at the data that Takashi had just handed him before stepping away with a bow, the ISF Sub-Director that Takashi had brought in following suit as they stepped aside.

"They have concealed this from our sight?" Hohiro stated. "We will bring those who would spite the Dragon to heel. Sub-Director, you will have some men collect those who were responsible for this. They have proven themselves to have no honor, and as such will be made an example of."

"Hai, Dono," Indrahar bowed low. "I will bring them before you."

"Tai-Sa," Hohiro looked at the head of his Otomo. "You have done well, as is expected."

Takashi bowed at the honor the Coordinator bestowed on him; and then left as he was dismissed, his face still as if made from stone.

—
—

"Subhash," Takashi allowed his old friend into the office that was set aside for the head of the Otomo. "I have been informed that Miyamoto Kurita has fallen in battle. You will see to it that his death is properly investigated."

"I will see to it that it is done," Subhash inclined his head. "What shall you do once I have found those responsible?"

"I will see to it that vengeance is properly carried out as is my duty to Isoroku-Kun," Takashi frowned.

---

Isoroku held back tears as the ornate ceramic and bamboo coffin was lowered into the ground, the ceremonies concluding as the first layer of dirt were scattered over the coffin.

"Isoroku-kun," Takashi knelt down, shaking the six-year-old out of his grief for a moment. "Come, there remains one ceremony before your father's soul may pass on."

Takashi led Isoroku and Theodore into another chamber, this one only lit by a few burning lanterns.

"Tradition dictates that when a samurai has passed, that there is something to be past down through the generations. Giving them strength and the ability to continue," Hohiro Kurita began once the immediate members of the family were shut in and seated in Seiza. "Isoroku, step forward."

The young boy shook as he stood up from Seiza, the ceremonial Hakama slightly ruffled as he stood before the Coordinator of the Draconis Combine.

Hohiro recited a handful of phrases in Japanese and removed a Wakizashi and Katana from a pedestal beside him.

"And in time, all things must be passed on to those who come after," Hohiro intoned as he handed Miyamoto's swords to his son. "Take care that your swords are looked after, and they will take care of you."

With that final statement, Hohiro left the chamber, the darkness fading away as the lanterns were replaced with the dimmed lights that were hung from the ceiling.

"Come," Takashi had the boys follow them to the section of the the Imperial Palace that had been reserved for his family. "Isoroku, from now on, you will be as a brother to Theodore. I have had your mother moved into the wing, and I will be responsible for furthering your education."

The boy remained silent, still processing the events of the day.

"And nephew, I will seek vengeance on our behalf," Takashi knelt and had Isoroku look into his eyes. "No matter who is responsible."

Takashi then left the room as the dam finally broke and Isoroku burst into tears, the drops falling on the swords that had been recovered from Miyamoto's mech.

Theodore moved close and in a breach of protocol pulled his cousin in for a hug, the tears staining his ceremonial Hakama as he comforted the older cousin.

"We are as brothers," Theodore echoed his father.

 

[MarkWarrior]

Chapter 7 (Romano's PoV)
Celestial Palace, Sian, 3007

Blue fire flashed out as Romano fought an invisible figure, her fists blazing as she forced the shadows back as light entered the darkness.

The figure flinched back away from the fire for a moment before tackling Romano, a brilliant halo erupting around the figure as its face was illuminated for the first time.

"Who are you?" Romano asked as she drove the figure off of her and stood to her feet.

"I'm the reason that we're not a sniveling wreck right now," Azula laughed harshly. "I went mad once, I can recognize the signs."

"What are you talking about?" Romano drew closer. "Explain."

"Do you not see this?" Azula pointed out the fissures and uneven areas surrounding them. "Did you think this was normal?"

"I don't even know where we are!" Romano finally yelled at the slightly older girl. "I don't know what this is," Romano punched a firebolt into the air for emphasis. I don't understand anything about this."

"Ugh," Azula sighed. "I am surrounded by idiots. I suppose I can explain it, but this will be the only time."

Azula sat and tucked her feet into her chest as she looked around them, gesturing for Romano to do the same.

"This is the battlefield of the mind," Azula explained. "This is where warring thoughts duel, and either meet their end or become one."

"Then those cracks are areas where my mind is damaged," Romano nodded as understanding entered. "How do we fix this?"

"I don't have a clue," Azula shrugged. "And the worst part of all of this is, even if we figure it out, you won't remember any of this."

"So, who are you, anyway?" Romano asked as she scooted in closer.

"I'm you," Azula frowned at that thought. "Or at least am what you once were. What you, we," she corrected herself. "Will become is left to the future."

"Well, we need to figure out how to fix this," Romano looked at the cracks. "And while I'm no expert, I'm pretty sure that we don't have to fix it all at once."

"The difficult we do immediately," Azula repeated the Fire Navy Marine phrase.

"The impossible just takes a bit longer," Romano finished, her eyes moving up and meeting Azula's as they both grinned. "Then it's time to get to work."

---

"What? Where?" Romano sputtered as ice-cold water was thrown over her, her sheets soaking wet as her instructor stood over her.

"You have dreamt the sleep of the young for long enough," the wizened old man smirked. "It is time to arise and face the day."

"There are other ways to wake someone up," Romano grumbled while Candace giggled behind her hand.

"Of course," the master smiled. "There are many ways to accomplish any task, but it is important to pick the one that suits your purposes. I could have shaken you awake, but you would have learned nothing from this. Now, you will be more aware in your sleep, and begin to use your other senses."

Romano grabbed a towel from a nearby servant and patted her face and body dry before shrugging on a gi and following Candace and her master out into the area that had been set aside for their instruction. Her hair and clothing could wait.

"Now, one must remember, that what I teach you is about the body, yes. But it is just as important to hone your mind and spirit as well. Your physical body has limits, but knowledge and wisdom know no such boundaries," the old man stood up and he gestured for them to do the same. "Now, we will begin with stretches today, and then move into the next exercises that we had planned."

---

Maximilian Liao's office…

"Instructor Mukhanov Xinya," Max looked at the broad martial arts master. "Tell me, how do my daughters fare under your instruction?"

"They are excellent students," Xinya responded, his gaze never leaving Max's feet. "Well adjusted, studious, and intelligent. Willing to undertake even the harshest lessons that I have to teach them."

"Excellent," Max smiled. "It is good that they are progressing well under your tutelage. Now, I assume you have prepared Candace to depart and begin furthering her education elsewhere?"

"Yes, I have done as you ordered and taught her what was necessary for her to thrive in any environment."

"Very good, she will be building upon the foundation that you have gifted her while she is at Sian University," Maximilian proclaimed. "You will continue to train Romano until she is of age to depart on her own path. Then, should you continue to please me, I may allow you to train my heir, Tormano."

"As you have commanded, so it will be," Xinya's Russian accent broke through. "I have served and will always be of service to you and to your house. As will my children after me."

"Loyal service will be rewarded in kind," Max stated quietly. "As ever it always is."

…