An eerie silence filled the air. The area was locked in darkness, with only the moon giving a faint light. Junior wandered through a dead forest, passing through the fog that hung in the air. The Transmutant looked around with an anxious expression.
"Where am I?" asked Junior. He searched the area more thoroughly, but was unable to find any familiarity with the place. Junior cupped his hands over his mouth as he took a deep breath.
"Amber! Caesar!" called Junior. His voice echoed in the night, slowly fading away out of his hearing. Junior grunted as he continued to walk through the dirt. The sound of heavy footsteps filled his hearing, causing Junior to stop dead in his tracks. He glanced to his side as he heard the footsteps getting closer. Junior hardened his eyes as he caught a familiar sent.
"You," growled Junior. He immediately turned around and found Destoroyah charging towards him. The larger Transmutant gave a savage yell as he charged towards Junior. The younger Transmutant yelled as he charged towards Destoroyah and slammed against him. The earth around them rocked as they collided. Destoroyah roared as he swiped his claws at Junior, but he missed as Junior ducked under. Junior sent a punch against Destoroyah's chest and sent him flying towards a tree. Destoroyah grunted as he skidded to a halt. Junior yelled angrily as he came crashing down towards the Transmutant from the air. Junior sent fast and powerful punches against Destoroyah.
"I'm gonna kill you!" shouted Junior as he continued to punch Destoroyah. He then opened his mouth as the back of his throat began to glow. He spewed his atomic breath against Destoroyah, causing him to wail in agony. Destoroyah kicked Junior away, forcing him towards a tree. Junior growled as he skidded to a halt and broke off into a charge towards his hated nemesis as he tensed his muscles. As Destoroyah stood back to his feet, Junior sent a strong kick against his knee, causing it to dislocate. Destoroyah cried out in pain as he dropped to the ground. Junior placed Destoroyah into a headlock and growled like a beast. With one quick twist with all of his strength, a sickening crack filled the air. Junior smiled to himself as he heard the sweet sound of his enemy's demise. He then began to pull on Destoroyah's head as he continued to twist. The sound of tearing and splattering could be heard as Junior stumbled back. Junior panted as he tossed the head away in the dirt. Junior watched as Destoroyah's headless body fell over in the dirt, covered in a yellowish liquid. Junior fell back onto his rear and panted.
"I did it. I finally got you. I hope you burn for what you've done to me," said Junior in a low and growling tone. His peripheral vision caught movement from where Destoroyah's body lied. He turned and his eyes widened as he found the headless body rising onto its knees. From where Destoroyah's head once sat, Junior could see something beginning to form. He took light breaths as he watched the form sculpted itself into a head. Junior's eyes widened in horror as he saw the head that had replaced Destoroyah's old head.
"Oh, my god," said Junior in shock. He was staring at a human head that bore his own likeness. Junior panted as the head that was attached to Destoroyah's body began to open its eyes, revealing hellish red and yellow eyes. Junior gasped as he backed away from the creature. The head started to laugh darkly as the body fell apart, revealing a dark scaled body. Junior's mirrored image began to take on a dragon-like appearance. Junior recognized it as his own dragon-like form. Only this form appeared much like the dragon that has haunted his dreams.
"How does it feel?" asked the dragon. His body suddenly burst into a fiery blast that engulfed everything for miles. Junior cried out as his body was burned. A shadow of the dragon's face shot forward towards him as it opened its mighty jaws. Junior clenched his eyes as the dragon approached.
Junior opened his eyes and shot up. His eyes were wide open as he woke up in a cold sweat. Junior's heart pounded in his chest as he searched his surroundings. He was currently in the forest near Neighagra Falls. The fire pit was smoking and the sky was still dark. Junior felt around his body, finding it to be sore, but unharmed by what he had witnessed. Junior sighed to himself as he placed his face into his hands. He turned and found Caesar sleeping soundly with a few fairies lying down on him. Junior turned to his side and found Amber curled up in the leaves, sleeping peacefully. Junior lied back down on the ground and pulled the fairy close to his chest. Amber mumbled in her sleep as she snuggled against Junior's chest, taking in his body heat. Junior frowned as he lowered his head close to the fairy's head and lightly scratched her back.
"I hope I woke up at least a couple hours before the sun rises," whispered Junior. He shook his head as he held Amber and kept her warm, refusing to go back to sleep.
Later that morning...
The morning sun hung in the sky as Koizumi strolled down the streets of Canterlot. The mercenary held a neutral expression and was dressed in a dark grey jacket and his hood over his head. The mercenary took glances all around himself, checking to see if he was being followed. He felt anxious being so close to the city and the other rebels. He held his hands in his pocket with an object in his grip. He held it firmly as to not lose it. Koizumi stopped as a chariot passed by on the road. As he waited for it to pass, he thought back to Inoue. As far as he knew, the young rebel would want to return home as soon as possible. However, he left her in in Baltimare since the hospital staff insisted that she remain there a bit longer. So, Koizumi had decided to return to Canterlot now and return to visit Inoue soon. He cringed at the memory of Yoshi giving him an earful for getting her involved in his work.
Koizumi continued to quickly walk along the side walk as he neared his destination. He found a building that appeared to be a large house. Koizumi reached into his other pocket and pulled out a note. He read the note and then the address of the building. He gave a satisfied nod and approached the large house. As he walked up the steps, he began to knock on it. After a minute of waiting, he heard the sound of footsteps approaching from behind the door. The door opened, revealing a middle-aged woman. The apron that she wore gave away her position as a housekeeper.
"May I help you?" asked the woman. Her voice carried the accent one would associate to be from Trottingham.
"My name is Kira Koizumi. I'm here to see the Vanity. He hired me to take care of something," said Koizumi. The woman nodded in understanding.
"Right this way," said the woman as she gestured for Koizumi to step in. The mercenary entered the large home and removed his hood. He looked over the house and found the foyer to be large, with a glass chandelier to be hanging high above. The railings that were built on the staircase were made up of dark metal. As he followed the house keeper through the foyer, he found a large clock to be standing tall in the corner, covered in gold. Koizumi hummed to himself as he kept his eyes on it. He turned forward and was led to the end of the house, where a middle aged man sat at a desk as he looked over documents.
"Master Vanity, the man you hired is here to see you," informed the housekeeper. Vanity tore his attention away from the documents and smiled.
"Ah. Mr. Koizumi, I presume," said Vanity as he stood up from his desk. Koizumi nodded as the other man approached him.
"You presume correctly," Koizumi said in a neutral tone. He extended his hand out to the man and shook it.
"It is a pleasure to see you, good sir. Would you care for a beverage?" asked Vanity.
"No, I'm just here to drop off the package. I have somewhere that I need to be," said Koizumi.
"Oh, very well then. Come, let us see it!" said Vanity as he led Koizumi away. The housekeeper took off and went on with her duties. Koizumi pulled out the item from his pocket and revealed it to Vanity. The older man smiled as he stared at the hand sized, dragon statue.
"May I?" Vanity held his hand out. Koizumi shrugged as he handed the statue to the other man. Vanity hummed to himself as he looked it over. He ran a finger over the statue's head, causing the eye gems to glow.
"Yes, very good. This is indeed the artifact," said Vanity. Koizumi crossed his arms.
"So, what's the story with this thing? You really seemed to be more worried about it compared to the money that was stolen from your banks," said Koizumi.
"That information is something that you do not need to know," said Vanity. Koizumi glared at him.
"Hey, I killed a lot of people to get that thing back for you. I put two other lives at risk because you insisted that I brought help. I am a professional, but I can also be petty," said Koizumi as he narrowed his eyes. He stepped closer to the man and drew out his hand gun, pointing it at his chin, much to Vanity’s shock. "Now, throw me a freaking bone here. What the hell is that thing?"
"V-Very well," said Vanity as he cleared his throat. He cleared his throat as Koizumi placed his pistol back in its holster. "This artifact has been in my family for the last few generations. It contains mystical powers that can grant wealth by turning material objects into golden ash, which can be melted down to be made into solid gold. It can also heal certain wounds."
"So, this is the purpose of your success? Your family own these banks and you have these riches because of that?" asked Koizumi.
"Precisely. But it's been kept a secret from the public. Unfortunately, my cousin decided to reveal that secret to destroy my families' wealth. He wishes to keep it all to himself," said Vanity. Koizumi scoffed.
"So, he told a very dangerous crime syndicate? Where the hell did you even keep the thing that they were able to find it?" asked Koizumi.
"Heh. We actually had it sitting above the vault door on one of the first banks that my family has ever owned. You see, this was back when crime rarely happened in our fair nation," said Vanity with an embarrassed chuckle. Koizumi scowled.
"Good god. I have never heard of anything as careless as that in my entire life," deadpanned Koizumi.
"Right. Well, after my family has been able to secretly come up with the gold, we used the funding to educate ourselves in the best schools to become entrepreneurs. This is how a number of us have become successful and profitable. All thanks to this blessing," said Vanity as he held the dragon statue. Koizumi sighed.
"Well, you better have that thing closer to you. Also, you may want to take care of that rat cousin of yours. Otherwise, you may suffer for it," said Koizumi.
"Actually, it turns out that he was found dead in Baltimare. I assume that the head of the crime syndicate decided to tie loose ends," said Vanity. Koizumi chuckled.
"Yeah, but I guess your mole was an end he didn't know about," said Koizumi with a chuckle.
"Yes. He was very valuable to infiltrate the group. All I needed was muscle to take back what was ours," said Vanity. He then gave Koizumi a hard stare. "I rather you not say anything about what I have told you. I will double your payment if you forget what I have told you."
"Forget what?" asked Koizumi. He then gave Vanity a wink. Vanity smirked in response.
"Exactly," said Vanity. Koizumi clapped his hands together.
"Right. Well, it was a pleasure doing business with you. Feel free to spread the word. I'll take care of dangerous jobs for the right price. But next time, only ask for me. I'm a professional and I can't risk younger soldiers getting involved. They'll only slow me down," said Koizumi. Vanity nodded.
"Very well," said Vanity. Koizumi turned away and walked towards the foyer of the house. He then made his way out the door and began to walk down the street. Vanity remained silent as he looked over the dragon statue. He turned away and made his way over towards his desk. He placed the statue down and crossed his arms.
"You will be worth the trade, my pretty," said Vanity with a smile.
The Badlands...
"Damn it!!" shouted Chrysalis. The Changeling Queen stood in her throne room as she threw a piece of furniture across the room, causing it to shatter against the wall. Two Changeling guards stood by as Chrysalis seethed to herself.
"How can we conquer Equestria if those damn abominations keep getting in our way?! We have already lost two of our infiltrators and those human soldiers failed to eliminate him!" shouted Chrysalis. She yelled as she threw a stone across the room. She sent a glare towards the guards.
"Leave me be!" shouted Chrysalis. The Changelings nodded and rushed out of the throne room. They closed the door to the room, leaving the Queen alone. Chrysalis sighed as she wandered back to her throne and slumped down in her seat.
"There must be a way to win. Soon, the pupas will hatch and they’ll be hungry. We can't even gather enough love to support all of us," said Chrysalis. The rebels and the Transmutants being in Canterlot made feeding much more dangerous. They were strong enough to stand against her army and she had lost the power that allowed her to stand up to Celestia herself. Chrysalis growled to herself.
"I see that you are troubled, my Queen," said a raspy voice. Chrysalis gasped as she searched for the sound of the voice. She stood up from her throne and looked around.
"Who goes there? Show yourself!" shouted Chrysalis. From the shadows of her throne room, a figure in a dark cloak stepped out. The figure turned to face her and bowed.
"Good day, Queen Chrysalis," said the figure. Chrysalis narrowed her eyes.
"I don't know who you are. Who are you?" demanded Chrysalis. The figure smirked under his hood.
"My name is Thanatos. I am not you enemy. I have come here to offer you a place in this new alliance," said Thanatos. Chrysalis narrowed her eyes.
"I have no interest in allying my people with a stranger. Leave my castle or suffer!" ordered Chrysalis as she flared her wings.
"But my Queen, what of your starving subjects?" asked Thanatos. Chrysalis's eyes widened. Thanatos smiled darkly.
"I know how you are caught in this struggle. We are struggling ourselves. But we can help each other," said Thanatos as he stepped closer towards the Queen.
"How so?" questioned Chrysalis.
"We have strong allies. Allies that can conquer Equestria. You can have a place in our ranks and assist us in overthrowing the Avatars. In turn, you shall be able to enjoy the spoils that arise from this conquest," said Thanatos. Chrysalis's interest began to peak.
"Tell me, what can you do? Who are these allies?" asked Chrysalis. "Perhaps if I'm convinced, I will consider your offer and not kill you,"
"Oh, we can do much. Our influence is great, and our allies are strong. You may be familiar with their kind," said Thanatos with a dark smile.
Zebrabwe...
The air was tainted with the smell of oil. The room was dark with no one else around. There were mechs stationed in the room with cords connected to them. Many of them were severely damaged. A few had a few parts that were replaced, but the rest of their bodies were in bad shape. At the far end of the room, Kiryu stood in silence. It was locked up much tighter compared to the other mechs, and it bore less damage than the rest. However, it was still in need of repairs.
The mech stood in silence. Its damaged optics stared coldly at the wall ahead. Kiryu began to spark in its neck and started to twitch. Kiryu's optics flashed to life, illuminating in its dark sockets. Kiryu whirred as it turned its head as it took in its surroundings. Its vision showed static due to the damage down to its optics. Kiryu scanned the room, which resulted in several heat signatures appearing behind the walls. The mech calculated the figures to be further away from the room that it was locked in. Kiryu turned its head forward and began to look down at the ground.
"Miwa... Junior..." Kiryu spoke in a distorted voice. It's Heads up display began to static, and the text that read, 'accessing memory banks'. Kiryu looked through memories of what the mech had seen during its deployment. It analyzed how the mech engaged Lucky Dragon in a fight.
"My son. Where are you?" asked Kiryu. The mech's vision showed static, causing the mech to lower its head. The vision then cleared up, and revealed something that shocked the spirit inside.
"This is..." Kiryu's vision had changed scenery, showing an older man that stood before him.
Neighpon. Many years ago...
The sun hung over the land in a scorching heat. Across the land, a small village stood out in an open field. Inside of a large house, a middle aged man stood by with his arms crossed as he watched a few young men spar with each other or practice using weapons. He kept a neutral expression as he watched one youngster, who gave quick swings with the katana. The youngster that he was staring at stood to be five foot five. He grunted as he swung the word with ferocity. He imagined his opponents that dared to strike him.
"Gojira!" called the middle aged man in an authoritative voice. The boy flinched and immediately stopped.
"Yes!" responded the young man. The man stepped forward as the other young men stopped and looked on anxiously.
"You must work on your form! You are too sloppy!" scolded the man. The young Gojira Senior nodded.
"Yes, father," responded the boy in a firm tone. The father nodded in approval and turned to the rest of the men. He sent them glares.
"The rest of you! What is it that you are doing?! You! Hold your weapon firmly!" shouted the man as he made his way to a man with a spear. He snatched it from his hand and swung the wooden shaft against his bare arm.
"Ouch!" cried the man as he clutched his reddening arm. The elder man turned to look at man in his mid-twenties with a glare.
"You! Stop flinching from your opponent! He's going to hit you no matter what!" said the elder man in annoyance.
"Y-Yes, Uncle," responded the man in embarrassment.
"And you! You're too rigid! Loosen up!" said the elder.
"Yes, Master," said the man as he bowed. The elder nodded in approval.
"My seed and the seeds of my brothers. You have all been trained to fight for our village. We are warriors with honor! We fight to stop those who threaten peace in our land! We fight for the weak in our midst!" said the elder. He turned towards a painting of a bearded man. He took a katana and swung his sword against the painting, causing the others to flinch.
"This man did nothing to fix the troubles that plagued our country. After him, generations of feudal war between clans went on until my father's generation. Now, the clans have ceased fighting, for now. But some will still seek to conquer others to settle their anger towards another clan," said the elder man. He paced around the dojo. "The new Emperor has asked for our clan to be part of his army. But we will not accept. No, shame has been brought upon us from what happened generations ago. Now, we must correct that and redeem ourselves for the oppression caused. We start with our village and the villages closest," said the elder man. Gojira stepped forward.
"Father, I heard that the Emperor plans to change things. He plans that lords shall not rule over territories, rather the states will be united under the Empire. If we take law and matters into our hands, how could we possibly act without being under the Emperor as warriors?" asked Gojira. "We may get into trouble,"
"If that is the case, we shall move forward with what we are doing. If the Emperor demands that we stop and act under his command, we shall comply. But we must make up for what we've done without the Emperor for as long as possible," said the elder. Gojira nodded in understanding.
Later that day...
Gojira sat in silence on the wooden porch of his clan's home. He looked out to the green fields of his village in silence. The farmers were out harvesting the crops from these fields. Gojira sighed as he leaned against the pillar. His ears picked up the sound of clogs clicking on the wood. He turned and found the elder man walking over towards him. He sighed as he sat down beside him.
"Good afternoon, my son," said Ishiro.
"Hello, father," greeted Gojira. The two sat down in silence as they felt the summer breeze.
"Father, why do we need to protect these villagers? Why don't we just teach them to fend for themselves?" asked Senior.
"My son, that’s what a neighbor does. He helps his fellow man when in need. Some have learned to protect themselves, but they must be able to support our village. Our job is to protect the village from any threat that comes against it," explained Ishiro. Gojira sighed as he slumped in his seat. Ishiro chuckled.
"Gojira, you should be happy to be living in this generation. When I was fifteen like you, I was already fighting. Not too long ago, boys younger than you were commanded to take a spear and go to war with another territory. The lords did not care how old you were. If you can hold a weapon, you were going to war if commanded," said Ishiro.
"That's cruel," said Gojira as he shook his head.
"Yes, times were difficult. That’s why you should appreciate your generation. You will be able to experience Neighpon moving forward," said Ishiro. He pointed towards the south, where a distant village with taller buildings stood. Smoke filled the air.
"Cities that we can only dream of are being built. This is a dawn of a new era," said Ishiro.
"Yes, MONARCH and Equestria extending a hand to help is generous. But, tensions are still high between Neighpon and the Garudas," said Gojira in worry. He recalled the war stories from decades ago back when his father was younger and when his grandfather was alive. The story of the Takeshi clan fighting alongside a few other rebelling clans and the Garudas was what turned the tide in Neighpon's feudal wars. But now, tensions between the two countries grew after the Garudas' interference.
"Yes, but we must have faith that our country will thrive. But I must admit, the industrialism has made the air around here less fresh then what I remember," said Ishiro. Gojira nodded in agreement.
"Yes, uncle and I were out fishing away from here. I would rather much live further from the city," said Gojira. Ishiro chuckled in response and patted his son on the shoulder.
"Well, I'm off. Watch over the village with the others," said Ishiro. Gojira nodded.
"Yes, father," said Gojira. As Ishiro left, Gojira stood up to his feet and walked away. His katana was wrapped around at his kimono's waist. The boy continued on through the village where a few people greeted him along the way.
Gojira spent the next hour wandering out of the village. He hummed to himself as he strolled through the nearby woods alone. He slid down a steep edge on the path that he was walking on and continued to walk off the path. Gojira looked around the area in silence as he bore a small smile.
"Man, it's nice to get away from the village," said Gojira as he took a deep breath and inhaled the much cleaner air of the area that he was in. He sighed to himself as he exhaled. As he continued to walk, he heard a couple feminine screams, causing him to flinch. He immediately stopped and turned to where the screams had come from. He began to run as another scream filled the air.
'The river!' thought Gojira as he picked up his speed. He climbed back up to the path that he had left and ran down towards the river. As he grew closer, he spotted three girls rushing towards him with a look of terror.
"Help! Bandits!" cried one of the girls. Gojira hardened his eyes as he drew his katana. One of the girls that lagged behind tripped and fell to the ground with a yelp. Her friends stopped and looked in horror.
"Tanaka-chan!" cried her friends. The girl that had tripped struggled to her feet but yelped as she clutched her ankle. She turned and gasped as she found four men with weapons coming closer. As the girls continued to run towards their friend to help, Gojira had already ran past them. He drew out his sword and rushed towards the men that grew closer. He held up his sword as he took a firm stance. His heart raced in his chest as he glared at the men that stopped and met with him.
"Leave the girls alone or suffer the consequences," warned Gojira in a firm tone. Truth be told, he was anxious. This was his first time ever confronting actual foes, but he shook off any doubts that he had.
'I can't cower. Not when lives are at stake,' thought Gojira. One of the men laughed in amusement.
"Lookie here! Mr. Samurai's got a death wish!" said one of the bandits as he twirled the sais in his hand. Gojira gritted his teeth as he narrowed his eyes. The girl that had fallen stared fearfully at the bandits.
"Heh. He's just a kid! We can take this little punk," said another bandit as he held the spear in his grip. The third man chuckled as he unsheathed his sword and the fourth man pulled out a club.
"After we kill you, we're taking these sweet young girls. Someone will pay handsomely for them," said the third bandit. Gojira narrowed his eyes while the girls trembled with fear.
"If you want them, you'll have to go through me," said Gojira as he charged towards the men. Senior ducked under the club of the first man and then swung his katana at the bandit with the sais. He managed to cut him, causing the bandit to stagger back in pain as he clutched his bleeding chest. As Gojira turned to attack the bandit with the katana, he was kicked by him. Gojira staggered back while the same bandit charged towards him while thrusting his sword. Gojira caught the blade with his sword and forced it away. He stepped forward and punched the bandit across his face. As the bandit staggered back, Gojira swung his katana at the bandit with the club. He dismembered the man's forearm, causing the girls to cry out as they hid their eyes from the limb. The bandit yelled in agony as he dropped to his knees while Gojira kneed him in his face.
"You bastard!" shouted the bandit with the sais. He leapt towards Gojira with his weapons pointed straight at him. Gojira side stepped away from the man as he dropped down and then sent his sword into his back. Before he could yank his blade out from the bandit's back, his eye caught sight of the bandit with the spear charging towards him. Gojira stepped away before he could be impaled but cursed under his breath when he realized that he had left his katana. The bandit with the spear gave a blood lustful cry as he thrust his spear towards the boy. Gojira dodged the thrusts as he bore a frantic expression. He pondered what he should do to be able to retaliate. His face deadpanned as he came up with a thought.
'Oh, right. Dad always said to use your fists if you lose your weapon,' thought Gojira. As he analyzed the bandit's thrusting motion, he decided to make his move. As the bandit sent another thrust, Senior caught the spear's shaft and then yanked on it. He pulled it out of the bandit's grip and twirled it in his hands. He swung it against the bandit's head and then snapped it in half. The boy tossed it away and sent quick jabs against the bandit's face before kicking him in the neck, knocking the bandit unconscious. Gojira sighed in relief but gasped as he found the remaining bandit coming at him with his katana. Gojira rolled away as the blade came inches from his face. The girls watched in worry as Senior stood his ground.
"You little brat! You're gonna pay for this!!" shouted the bandit. He yelled as he charged towards Gojira with his sword raised in the air. Gojira rushed over to the katana that stuck out of one of the bandits and then yanked it out before turning to face the bandit and clash blades with him. The two struck each other as the steel blades grazed against each other. Gojira grunted as he kicked the bandit away and prepared to strike him down. However, the bandit swung his katana at Gojira’s arm. The boy cried out in pain as his grip loosened on his weapon. His bleeding arm stung as he hunched over. The bandit kicked the boy to the ground. He stalked towards him as he held his sword up. The boy clenched his eyes shut as he waited for his demise.
"No!" cried Tanaka. She reached into the wooden basket that was on her back and pulled out a stone. She grunted as she tossed the stone at the bandit's head. He grunted in pain as he rubbed the side of his head. He glared at the girl that lied on the floor. Tanaka's friends glared at her.
"Why did you do that?!" the girls exclaimed. Tanaka gulped nervously.
"I'm sorry," whimpered Tanaka.
"Not yet you're not," growled the bandit as he stalked towards her. Gojira narrowed his eyes as heard this. He rose himself up and took his katana into his hand, ignoring the pain that stung his left forearm. He silently rushed towards the bandit from behind and stabbed his katana into his back. The bandit gasped as he felt the cold steel blade inside of him. Gojira growled as he pulled the bandit back.
"You forced me to do this," whispered Gojira. The girls stared with wide eyes as Gojira kept his blade in the bandit's back.
"Y-You...bastard," said the bandit. He then slumped his head down as he started to wheeze. Gojira pulled his katana out of the bandit's back and lowered him to the ground. Gojira panted as he stared at the bandit that was slowly dying before glancing at the girls that stared at him with wide eyes.
"Are you three alright?" asked Senior.
"Y-Yeah! Thank you!" cried one of the girls. Gojira nodded to them as he pulled out a cloth and wiped the blood that stained the blade of his weapon and sheathed it at his side. He made his way over to Tanaka, who looked at him with wide eyes. Gojira lowered himself down to her level and kept a neutral expression.
"Can you walk?" asked Gojira. The girl didn't answer. He looked at her in annoyance.
"Hey, I asked you a question! Can you walk or not?" asked Gojira. Tanaka jumped as she came back to her senses.
"Uh...no. No, I think I twisted my ankle," said Tanaka. Gojira sighed in response.
"Alright. Do you live in the village nearby?" asked Gojira. Tanaka nodded to him.
"Y-Yes," stuttered Tanaka.
"Good. Because I rather not go on a quest to carry you across the land," said Gojira. One of the girls scoffed.
"My, aren't you chivalrous?" said one of the girls.
"Sure, complain about me not willing to stray too far from the village that I'm supposed to be looking after with others. Especially when it was me who just saved your lives," said Gojira with a scowl. He scooped Tanaka into his arms and winced as his forearm stung from the wound that he received. The girl glanced at him as he walked down the path with her friends trailing behind.
"Um...may I ask your name, brave warrior?" asked Tanaka. Gojira sent her a glance and then looked forward.
"Doesn't matter," said Gojira. Tanaka lightly frowned.
"All I want to know is your name," said Tanaka.
"I don't care," responded Gojira in a neutral tone. Tanaka's friends looked at Gojira with a glare.
"Come on! You already live in the village with us! Giving her name isn't going to kill you!" said one of Tanaka's friends. The other girl nodded in agreement.
"Yeah! What? Did she hurt your pride when she saved your life?" demanded the girl. Gojira’s brow twitched in annoyance. He was tempted to just drop the girl that he carried onto the ground and leave the girls to fend for themselves.
"Fine! It's Gojira Takeshi! Now get off my back before I leave you three alone!" said Gojira in irritation.
"You wouldn't dare!" said the short haired girl with a glare. Gojira returned the glare.
"Don't test me!" spat Gojira. The short haired girl narrowed her eyes.
"What would your mother say?!" demanded the girl. He scoffed as he turned forward and continued to walk.
"I don't know. I never knew her," said Gojira. The short haired girl lightly frowned as she turned away.
"I...I'm sorry. I didn't mean-"
"Just stop pestering me. She saved my life and I saved yours and told you my name. We're even," said Gojira with a scowl. Tanaka glanced at Senior with a light smile as he kept a firm expression.
"Well...not entirely. I haven't told you my name. It's Miwa Tanaka. Thank you for saving us," said Tanaka as she bowed her head. Gojira glanced at her for a second and then turned forward.
"You're welcome, Tanaka," said Gojira. Miwa lightly smiled as she stared at the boy that carried her.
Later...
"Grr!" Gojira gritted his teeth as he clenched his fists. He was breathing heavily as sweat dripped from his forehead. A woman was kneeling next to him as she drove a needle into the wound in his arm.
"It's your own fault. Your form sucks, cousin," said the woman as she continued to sew up his wounds.
"There were four men against me! I'm lucky to have survived the fight!" said Gojira.
"Lucky is the right word. But you can never count on luck. You need to rely on skill," said the woman as she continued to sew up the boy's wound. Gojira hissed as he scrunched his nose as the stitching was as painful as the stings of bees. "I-I feel like I'm going to pass out," said Senior in a dazed state and with a blurry vision.
"You're such a baby. Well, unless you lost a bit more blood then we originally thought," scoffed the woman in a worried tone. Gojira glanced at the top half of his kimono that lied on the wooden floor of his home. The sleeve was covered in a thick red stain.
"Gee, I wonder which one it could possibly be," Gojira said sarcastically. His cousin rolled her eyes.
"Sarcasm is not attractive, cousin. Cut back on it, and I bet you'll find yourself a lovely dame," said the woman.
"As if. Besides, I'm comfortable without a woman. I'm not the kind of man who needs one," said Gojira. His cousin rolled her eyes.
"Then who's gonna carry on your father's lineage? You are an only child," said the woman. "Why would you deny your father a grandchild?"
"You let me worry about that. Besides, I don't fancy being a teenage father," said Gojira. His cousin chuckled in amusement.
"Well, at least you have your priorities straight," said the woman. As she finished sewing Gojira’s arm, she slapped him on the shoulder. "There you go. Just don't exert yourself for a while so you don't tear your stitches,"
"Thanks," said Senior as he gave his cousin a nod. He struggled up to his feet and began to walk away.
"Goji!" called his cousin. The boy sighed in exhaustion and turned to face her.
"Yes?"
"That girl you were carrying was quite a cutie~" said the woman in a teasing tone. Gojira rolled his eyes in response as he turned away. His cousin began to laugh.
"I'm just kidding with you! Lighten up!" said the woman.
"Yeah, sure," said Gojira as he walked through his clan's home. As he walked, he began to wobble a bit and his head felt light.
"I really should lie down," said Gojira as he made himself over towards a corner in the house and lied down on the wooden floor. He sighed in relief as he lied on his back. "Much better."
As he lied down, his hearing picked up faint voices from outside. He chose to ignore what was being said, but he did recognize his father's voice. Senior sighed to himself as he closed his eyes, not wanting to bother with analyzing his conversation. After what seemed to be ten minutes of resting his eyes, Gojira felt his rib being lightly kicked.
"What?! Huh?!" exclaimed Gojira as he shot up and searched with wide eyes. He turned and found his father looking down at him with a look of disapproval.
"If you plan on napping, at least do it in your room," said Ishiro. Gojira chuckled in embarrassment.
"Right. Sorry," said Gojira as he stood up to his feet. He still felt a little dizzy and light headed.
"Well, since you’re up, come have dinner. You'll need your strength," said Ishiro as he began to walk away. Gojira sighed as he walked before his eyes widened.
"Dinner?!" exclaimed Gojira. He turned his head towards the window and found the sky to be dark. He made his way over down towards a room where his family members sat at a long table. They all conversed with each other as they drank and feasted. As he sat down with a sigh, one of his family members nudged him in the shoulder.
"Hey, tough guy! We heard about your heroic act from this afternoon!" said the older man. Gojira remained silent as he took a plate and began to serve himself the food that sat in the center of the table.
"Hey, nephew! Were ya scared without us to back you up?" asked a man with a scar that ran over his brow. Gojira shrugged.
"Maybe I was a little intimidated at first, but I managed," said Gojira in a neutral tone. He then noticed his cousin that sewed up his wound beginning to pour tea into his cup. She smirked as she sneaked a glance at him.
"Turns out that Gojira had to be saved by one of the girls that were being attacked," said the woman. The male family members all laughed in amusement while Gojira's cheeks flushed with embarrassment.
"I-It wasn't like that!" said Gojira in a defensive manner. He then noticed his father taking a seat across from him. The boy looked down in shame.
"Ah yes, I was having a conversation with one of the girl's father. He seemed to have been grateful for you to have stepped in," said Ishiro. Gojira took a sip of his tea as he bore a scowl.
"Yeah, he better. Saves me the embarrassment of being saved by a common villager rather than another warrior," said Senior in a bitter tone. His uncle patted him on the shoulder.
"Well, we're glad that you made it out alive. Hey, you got yourself your first battle scar! That's something you can tell your kids!" said Gojira’s uncle.
"That is if he can get a girl to bear his children," said another male family member. The rest of the clan erupted in a roar of laughter, causing Gojira to growl in annoyance.
"Yeah, very funny," said Gojira as he angrily ate his food.
"She was cute at least, right?" asked Gojira’s uncle. The boy looked at him in annoyance. Gojira’s cousin nodded as she smiled brightly.
"She was! Cousin, if there's any girl that you could get to know, she's the one!" said the woman. Gojira merely continued to eat as he kept a scowl on his face. Meanwhile, Ishiro rubbed his chin as he kept his gaze on his son.
On the southern side of the Takeshi clan's territory, another village lied further out in the distance. This village was miles away, further from any modern city that was in the process of being built. The village was filled with few people and was as quiet as a mouse. Men with scars and weapons roamed through the village. A few people stood by anxiously as these men passed by. In the center of the village, was a large house that was built near a temple. Inside of the house, paintings of members of the clan's lineage filled the walls of one room. The other room held treasures that once belonged to other clans. Deeper in the house, an elderly man sat down on a throne as he stared down at the men that were in the room. He stared at a young man that knelt before the elder.
"Master, we've learned that your son was killed near the Takeshi territory. He and his colleagues have clearly been killed by a swordsman," said the man. The clan leader lowered his head as his expression took on a look of contempt. He shook his head.
"I told that fool not to venture near that territory," said the head of the house. One of the men growled.
"The Takeshi clan has gone too far! First, they ruin our rule over Neighpon and now they kill a member of our clan!" shouted a family member.
"Yeah! They need to pay!" said another family member. The head of the house shook his head.
"As much as I would love to put the Takeshi clan in its place, we may be risking getting into trouble with the Emperor and his loyal soldiers," said the head of the house. Another man stepped forward. His eyes were yellow and his head was covered in short, dark burgundy hair. His muscles were toned and he stood among his clansmates.
"This isn't the time for worry, Grandfather! The Takeshi clan is inferior to the Spider crab clan! Let us retaliate against them!" demanded the man. The head of the house hummed in thought as he scratched his chin. He looked towards the man and gave him a nod.
"Destoroyah, go and prepare all of our fighters. Soon we shall make the Takeshi clan pay for its crimes against the Spider-Crab clan," said the headmaster as he stood up from his seat. The clan members all gave cheers as they spout damnation against the Takeshi clan. Destoroyah darkly smiled to himself.
"Yes, Grandfather," said Destoroyah as he bowed his head.
Later on that night, Destoroyah walked through the house hold in silence as he kept a hard stare. He stopped as he turned to face a table that held a photograph of a man. Destoroyah lightly frowned as he made his way over towards the photo.
"We'll avenge you uncle. I promise you that I will end the man who killed you and his family as well. Even if I have to burn the entire village to get to him," said Destoroyah. He sighed as he sat down and placed the picture down. He heard footsteps approaching him from his side. Destoroyah turned and found the head of the house to be walking towards him.
"I see that you are greatly troubled, my grandson," said head of the house. Destoroyah sighed heavily.
"It just isn't right. Uncle was strong. How could he have been killed by them?" asked Destoroyah. The head master shook his head.
"Your uncle was arrogant. He may have died due to him underestimating his opponent or he was ambushed," said the head of the house. Destoroyah shook his head.
"Either way, the Takeshi clan will pay. Especially for their rebellion against you during the feudal era," said Destoroyah.
"Yes, but times are changing. Feudalism is no longer a part of our culture. But, we can rise again," said the older man. He began to cough furiously, prompting Destoroyah to look at him in worry. The elder calmed himself as he took a breath. "Our clan was the greatest of all the others. We were strong. But now, we have no power in politics. Our relatives are uncertain of how our clan will hold in the changing ways of Neighpon."
"We will remain strong. We will remain superior," said Destoroyah in a low tone. The head of the family wheezed.
"Destoroyah, I no longer have any sons. Your father and your uncles are dead. Someone must take the mantle of guiding the clan to greater power. I'm afraid that I don't have much time," said the head of the family. Destoroyah lightly frowned in response. He had just recently lost an uncle and now he was reminded how his grandfather's time was short. Just looking at the old man and could tell that he wouldn't last longer, given his frail appearance.
"I cannot rely on your cousins to take my place. I want you to do so," said the head of the family. Destoroyah's eyes widened.
"But...how can I be worthy of your place?" asked Destoroyah. His grandfather gave a weak chuckle.
"My boy, I have taught you the art of combat back when I was still able to fight. For years, I watched you improve in your skills. I've seen how ruthlessly you fight. You can tell the weak from the strong. Our clan needs that rather than me," said the elder as he coughed again. "Remember well, only the strong survive and the weak perish."
"I...I understand, grandfather. Uncle was weak, my father was weak. You were strong, and now you have grown weak," said Destoroyah as he lowered his head. His grandfather nodded to him in response.
"Yes. You know what you must do before you lead our family to war against the Takeshi clan. It has been done in our clan for generations," said the elder. Destoroyah looked at him with a hard stare.
"I do, grandfather," said Destoroyah. His grandfather nodded as he gave him a cold stare.
"Then do it. Succeed me, my heir," said the elder. Destoroyah raised himself to his feet as he closed his eyes. He took calming breaths, wiping away any doubt and hesitation that he had. He then opened them as he approached his grandfather.
Three days later...
It was noon. Gojira was walking alone with his katana sheathed in his side. He mentally sighed in annoyance as his cousin scolded him for going out with his katana. She worried that he would tear his stitches, should he encounter any more trouble. So, he was forced to remain closer to the village. The boy made his way over towards a small hut where he found a few people pouring rice into a boiling pot. As his senses caught the smell, his stomach began to growl. He made his way over to the hut and looked towards a man that was handing a bowl of rice towards a woman, who traded him with yen coins.
"I'd like to purchase a bowl of rice with chicken," said Gojira as he stepped up in line. The man nodded to him.
"Coming right up," said the man. Gojira crossed his arms as he waited for his lunch come through. From the corner of his eye, he caught a few children laughing as they ran across the dusty road and shoved through people. A child bumped into him and stumbled back. She gasped as she stared at him nervously, finding him to be armed.
"I-I'm sorry, Mr. Samurai! I didn't mean to-" the girl babbled as she stood up to her feet and bowed before Gojira. He sighed as he rolled his eyes.
"It's fine. Go play," said Gojira as he crossed his arms. The girl nodded frantically as she ran off. The boy crossed his arms as he waited for his food. An older man got in line behind him.
"Ah Takeshi-san. How are you on this pleasant day?" asked the older man.
"Well, I'm OK. I'm disappointed that I can't wander further away from the village to watch over it. My cousin keeps getting on my ass about the stitches," replied Gojira. The elder chuckled in amusement.
"Oh, my dear boy. You are much too preoccupied with separating from the village. Being around us isn't going to hurt you," said the older man.
"It's not that. I just like to have my space," said Gojira.
"Hmm. Hey, I heard about those young ladies that you saved. Have any of them asked you if they could bear your children?" asked the older man as he bounced his eyebrows. Gojira’s face flushed in embarrassment.
"Tetsu, you old pervert!" said Gojira.
"Hey-Hey! This old pervert is responsible for your family’s weapons and armor! How about a little more respect, eh?" said the old man as he held his chin up. Gojira scowled in response and turned away to keep his eye on the cook.
"Right. Well, none of them asked me such a thing. Besides, they're supposed to marry me first before having to bear a child," said Gojira. The old man gave a cheeky chuckle.
"Well, you best get to marrying one of them! Who else will be willing to cook your meals for you and serve you if you don't have a loving wife?" asked Tetsu. "I mean, you already don't make any friends,"
"I can do it myself. Besides, having my family is worth more to me than friends," said Gojira in annoyance. He looked back at Tetsu as his expression softened.
"Hey, can I ask about the progress on the armor that my father is paying for?" asked Gojira.
"Hmm! My boy, your armor is nearly complete! Your father paid well for its quality and durability! However, I may need to forge it again if you grow a bit more," said Tetsu as he poked Senior's muscle toned arm. Tetsu then hummed in thought. "I'm beginning to wonder if he's spoiling you,"
"Spoiling me? Well, he might be paying much more for this armor, but he wants it to hold. You can't be a samurai with shoddy equipment," said Gojira. He then scratched the back of his head. "Besides, my clan believes in humble beginnings. As a kid, I was put through hours of training. I had to sleep out in the cold for a few years. I was put through a lot of physical pain when it came to fighting with my older cousins. I never received gifts for my birthdays or holidays. I had to earn privileges," said Gojira.
"Hmm. Tough love from your father?" asked Tetsu.
"Yeah, but it's better than not being loved by him," said Gojira. He caught sight of the man in the hut bringing over a bowl filled with rice and pieces of chicken sitting in the bowl. The boy took out his yen coins and traded it with the man for the meal and a pair of chopsticks.
"Well, that's good to hear. Just know that your armor will be ready before the end of the day," said Tetsu. Senior nodded to him.
"OK, thank you. See you around, Tetsu," said Gojira as he walked away with his bowl of food. He sighed to himself after he took a whiff of the smell of his food. He made his way over towards a bench and sat down.
"I humbly receive this meal," said Gojira as he clapped his hands together and bowed his head. He sat back as he began to eat his food. After a minute of eating, he heard a surprised gasp at his side. Gojira stopped eating and glanced at his side with his puffed out from the food stuffed in his mouth. Miwa was standing nearby with a bright smile on her face.
"Takeshi-san!" cried Miwa. Gojira lightly scowled in response.
'So much for being alone,' thought Gojira. He swallowed his food and then lowered his bowl to his lap.
"Hi, Tanaka," greeted Gojira. The girl grinned at him and limped towards him, causing him to raise a brow. Miwa sat beside Gojira on the bench, letting him see that her ankle was wrapped in bandages.
"How's your ankle?" asked Gojira.
"Oh. Well, it still hurts and I'm having a bit trouble of walking. But it's fine," said Miwa. Gojira looked at her in disbelief.
"Why the hell are you out here walking? You should stay off of it!" said Gojira in a scolding manner.
"Yes. Well, I needed to come out here to bring rice home to cook. Otherwise, dinner will be incomplete," said Miwa.
"Couldn't someone else have done it instead?" asked Gojira.
"No, my father is in the fields working and my mother is helping with looking after some children," answered Miwa. Gojira shook his head as he continued to eat. Miwa leaned against the bench as she stared at him for several seconds. The boy's brow twitched in annoyance as she continued to stare at him.
"Why are you staring at me?" asked Senior. Miwa giggled in response.
"Sorry, I just like the way your hair looks," said Miwa. Gojira lightly blushed as the girl leaned closer and ran her hand over the dark hair. He recoiled from her with a look of confusion as his cheeks burned from his blush. Miwa laughed in embarrassment.
"I'm sorry. That was out of line," said Miwa as she rubbed her arm.
"I-It's fine," said Gojira as he brushed his fingers against the top of his hair. Miwa looked at him curiously.
"So, your family is a warrior class clan, right? Does that mean you'll have to shave your hair for when you get your own armor?" asked Miwa.
"I guess so. It's to keep the helmet secured when being worn," answered Gojira. Miwa frowned in disappointment.
"That's a shame. I actually think your hair is rather nice," said Miwa.
"Thanks," said Gojira as he avoided eye contact with the girl. As he ate, Miwa noticed the stitches that were on his arm. She lightly frowned as she recalled the incident from days ago.
"I'm sorry that you got hurt. I feel responsible for what happened to your arm," said Miwa in a sad tone. Gojira stopped eating and then glanced at his sewed up wound.
"Don't be ridiculous. This happened because I was careless. It's my job to protect the village and the people who live in it," said Gojira as he continued to eat. Miwa sighed as she placed her hand under her chin and propped her arm up against the back end of the bench.
"Well, there must be something that I could do to make it up to you," said Miwa. Gojira looked at her in annoyance.
"Are you deaf or something? It's not your fault! I don't want anything for you!" said Gojira as he raised his voice. Miwa recoiled from his tone as she looked at him with wide eyes. He huffed as he went back to eating while Miwa frowned as she turned away and looked down at the ground. The boy glanced at her and noticed her hurt expression.
"I'm sorry. I...I didn't mean to be a bother. I'm sorry if I made you mad," apologized Miwa as she spoke in a small tone. The girl felt as though she was being too pushy with boy. Gojira sighed in response, feeling bad for making Miwa upset.
"I'm not mad. I just don't like that you're trying to claim responsibility for a careless step that I made," said Gojira. Miwa sneaked a glance as Senior placed his empty bowl on the side. He scratched the side of his head as he looked away with a light blush. "I didn't mean to yell at you. Sorry,"
Miwa lightly smiled. She scooted closer to him as she turned to fully face him.
"It's OK. But...can I at least show you my appreciation for saving me and my friends?" asked Miwa. Gojira shrugged.
"I don't really want anything. But if it'll make you happy, then I guess," said Gojira. Miwa smiled brightly.
"Oh! I just had an idea!" Miwa cried out with joy. Gojira slightly recoiled from her high tone.
"Oh?" questioned Gojira. Miwa giggled as she took his hand into her own and held them tightly.
"Yeah! Why don't you come over to have dinner with us? I'd love it if you'd come," said Miwa as her eyes twinkled. Gojira lightly blushed as he felt her soft skin against his hand and looked away.
"S-Sure. I mean, if you want," stuttered Gojira. Miwa grinned in response.
"Awesome! Come on by tonight!" said Miwa. She stood up from the bench and began to limp away.
"I'll see you later, Takeshi-san!" said Miwa as she limped away. She hissed to herself as her sprain ached. Gojira stood up from his seat as he took on a look of worry.
"Hey, Tanaka. How about I help you with getting what you need?" offered Senior. Miwa turned to face as she waved her hand dismissively.
"No, that's OK! I don't want to be a bother," said Miwa. Gojira scowled in response as he made his way to her side.
"Well, you being out here with a sprained ankle bothers me. Let me help you," said Gojira as he took her hand and placed it over his shoulder. Miwa looked at him in confusion but Gojira began to take light steps.
"Just stay off of that foot and walk with the other," said Gojira. He then glanced at Miwa. "Unless you rather I carry you,"
"Uh...no! No, that's alright! This will be fine!" Miwa tittered in embarrassment. The thought of the boy carrying her again brought butterflies into her stomach.
"Then get to hopping," said Gojira as he walked with Miwa. The girl nodded as she looked at the ground and began to step with her left foot.
Later that night...
Gojira sat down inside of a small house inside of a room with a long table. He sat beside Miwa, who bore a smile on her face. Gojira glanced to his front and found a middle aged woman and a man. Senior looked down in front of himself and found food to be sitting in front. Gojira cleared his throat as he ate with the family.
"We are honored to have a Takeshi to be with us tonight for dinner," said Miwa's father.
"Oh. Um...sure. Thank you for having me over," said Gojira with a nervous smile. He mentally sighed and wondered how he had been placed into this position.
"Are you enjoying your meal? Is it too hot? Too cold? Maybe you'd like more tea!" said Miwa's mother with a frantic expression as she kept a forced smile. Gojira gave her a reassuring smile.
"Oh, no it's fine. It's really good," said Gojira as he took another bite. Miwa looked at him as she took another bite of her meal.
"It must be hard being a samurai," said Miwa.
"Well, it isn't easy training to become one. Honestly, three days ago was the first time where I actually had to act as one," admitted Gojira. He almost felt himself freeze with doubt when he encountered the bandits. He thanked his father's training that he did not freeze up.
"Oh my! So you're basically a rookie!" said Miwa's mother. Gojira nodded to her.
"Yeah," said Gojira with an embarrassed chuckle. Miwa's father nodded to him.
"Well, you must have been trained well if you were able to fend off the men who attacked our daughter. We are eternally grateful for that," said the father as he and his wife bowed. Gojira felt slight annoyance from all of the praise and thanks. It happened a lot with his family and a few villagers that heard about the incident. He didn't think that it was as great of a deal anymore, but he thought it was better than being ridiculed from fleeing.
"Again, you're welcome," said Gojira with a nod. As he was about to take another bite of his meal, he heard shouts coming from outside. Everyone stopped eating and heard the shouts growing louder. Senior placed his bowl down and walked out towards the house's exit, Miwa and her family following behind. Gojira stepped out and found several men armed with weapons running around as they slipped on their armor. Gojira looked around in confusion as a few people cried out as they ran away. The boy caught sight of a familiar man running with his samurai armor on his body.
"Uncle! What's going on?!" asked Gojira as he rushed out to meet his uncle.
"Gojira, we need your help to defend the village! We're under attack!" said Gojira’s uncle. The boy's eyes widened in shock. His uncle pointed away.
"Go see Tetsu! He'll have some swords for you! Hell, put on your armor if you can!" said Gojira’s uncle as he ran away to join a few villagers that were armed with bows and arrows or farming tools. Gojira grew anxious and turned to face Miwa, who looked at him with worry.
"Listen, you and your family need to stay indoors! There's trouble going on!" said Senior. Miwa nodded frantically as she and her parents rushed inside their home. Gojira turned and ran down the road, steeling himself for the coming battle. He was filled with a large amount of anxiety from his lack of combat experience and the sudden battle.
"Damn it! Why now?!" shouted Gojira as he made his way through the village and near a hut. He rushed inside and found Tetsu gathering swords into one spot along with a few other weapons.
"Tetsu! Do you have any armor for me to wear?!" asked Gojira with a frantic expression. Tetsu nodded quickly.
"Yes! I have it ready over here!" said Tetsu as he led Gojira to the back of his workshop. Gojira stared at the grey armor that sat on a rack. His grey helmet bore a face plate that resembled a snarling dragon. In the center of the armor, the Takeshi clan emblem was built into it. Gojira hardened his eyes as he made his way over to the armor.
"Father, I will not let myself cower before any threat that comes against us," said Gojira in a low tone.
Later...
The sounds of war cries filled the night air. Swords clashed as smoke and fire hardened the air. Ishiro stood near the village with two swords hanging on the cloth that was wrapped around his waist. He held his helmet at his side. His armor was red and bore the same snarling dragon appearance that Senior's face plate did. Ishiro looked down harshly as a few of his clan members fought off several men that bore broad armor, giving them the appearance of crustaceans. Ishiro narrowed his eyes as he spotted the flag that the enemy had in the back. The flag was crimson and bore a black silhouette of a crab with a body that appeared like a spider's. It appeared to be jagged and bore a white silhouette of an hour glass in the center.
"The Spider Crab clan!" growled Ishiro. He watched as villagers that have trained in the art of combat and were suited up in armor continued on with members of the Takeshi clan. The small numbers of both factions clashed together and fought with all of their might. Ishiro turned as he heard footsteps approaching. He found his son rushing towards his side as he was armed with two swords at his waist.
"I'm here, father!" said Gojira as he caught his breath. Ishiro nodded.
"Good. My son, I know how uncertain things may seem. You have little real combat experience, but I believe in you," said Ishiro. He placed his hand on his son's shoulder as he kept a firm expression. "I have taught you much and I have seen how you have managed to swallow your fears and press on. We need that against this enemy,"
"Yes father," said Gojira as he nodded.
"My son, we must all fight to the bitter end. No matter how hopeless it may seem, we must fight to win," said Ishiro. He pointed towards the battlefield. "Ahead is our greatest enemy! The Spider-Crab clan has been our foes for years! Until now, we've stayed out of each other's way. They are a cruel and ruthless faction. For whatever reason, they have decided attack. But we will not cower before them!"
"Yeah!!" shouted the samurais and armed villagers that were near. Gojira nodded as held his hand near his sword's handle. Ishiro turned towards men that carried dark green flags with the Takeshi clan symbol.
"This is our symbol, men! A symbol of protection! We are men of war who fight not to conquer, but to defend!" shouted Ishiro.
Meanwhile at the other side of the battlefield, Spider-Crab clan members stayed behind with Destoroyah, who wore a more spiked appearance in his samurai armor. In his hand was a large axe. He stood to be over six feet tall in height, most uncommon height for people of the Eastern descent. He looked towards his clan members and the men who pledged their loyalty to his clan as soldiers.
"Our purpose is to rule over those who are weak and do not have the power to survive! We fight to conquer and aspire to become stronger than all who challenge us!" shouted Destoroyah. He then pointed towards the other side of the battlefield.
"The clan you see before us is our sworn enemy! They ruined our rule over Neighpon in my grandfather's generation, and now they slay one of our own! The Takeshi are weak! It's filled with men who are ashamed of what their fathers have done before them to the weak common man! Now, they think they can be better by acting as vigilantes!" shouted Destoroyah.
At the other side of the battlefield, Ishiro took on a solemn expression.
"What our clan had taken part of during the feudal era is unforgivable. We may actually be damned in death for the crimes of those before us. But I am willing to accept that if I can fight and die for the people who have forgiven and given us a second chance!" said Ishiro. A horse was led to him, which he climbed up on and secured himself on the saddle. A few other samurais saddled up on horses as well. Ishiro looked to all of the men with a firm expression.
"Now, cast off thy fear. Turn and face thy enemy. Never give an inch. If thou retreat, thou shall age. Be afraid, thou shall die. Face thy enemy and roar like the mighty dragon, Gojira!!" shouted Ishiro. The Takeshi faction all gave cries as they raised their weapons.
At the other end of the battlefield, Spider-Crab members saddled horses as well. Archers readied their arrows. Destoroyah stomped on the ground as he held his axe into the air.
"Remember this! In this world, only the strong will survive and the weak shall perish!!" shouted Destoroyah. The men of his faction all cried out as they raised their weapons. Destoroyah turned towards the battlefield as he glared at the head of the Takeshi clan, whose red armor stood out among the rest. Ishiro did the same to Destoroyah as he hardened his eyes.
"Attack!!" shouted Ishiro as his horse stood on its hind legs and began to kick its forelegs into the air as it whinnied. The horses all charged in first as the men charged on foot. Destoroyah growled as he pointed forward towards the approaching clan. He would settle his revenge and make his clan the greatest to ever exist.
"Go! Kill them all!!" shouted Destoroyah. The men in his faction all gave war cries as they charged forward. The horses took the lead and charged towards the other horses. The night was filled with war cries and faint lights of fires that were caused by flaming arrows that were shot from both sides. People in the nearby village dared to peak and watch as the battle began. The men that stayed behind to defend the village wished the warriors luck. Miwa limped over towards a spot where she could see pass the small crowd. Her eyes widened as she found the large amount of men that filled each side. They all ranged into nearly a hundred all together. She watched as the factions began to grow closer to each other. She feared for Gojira’s life as she had taken a liking to the boy despite knowing him for a short time. She wanted to know more about him and perhaps become his friend. Unfortunately, he may not survive what's to come.
As the factions drew closer together in their clash, Ishiro pulled out his long bladed katana and swung it against his enemy. The man dropped from the horse, dead. Senior continued on to slash at any of men from the other faction from his horse. The other Takeshi clan members that rode horses struck any enemy that came close. However, a few were either knocked off of their horses by another samurai on horseback or were struck by an arrow that flew across the battlefield. Ishiro's horse was struck by an arrow and whinnied as it fell over. Ishiro cried out as he fell off of the horse and struggled up to his feet as an enemy came at him with a sword. Before he could impale Ishiro, he was struck in his exposed head by an arrow. He slumped over dead while Takeshi faction members rushed to Ishiro's aid. Gojira rushed through the battlefield with his comrades and fought anyone who engaged him. Gojira had forgotten any worry and doubt that he had and continued to clash swords with his enemy. The fighting felt much more natural to him compared to when he fought to save Miwa. The young samurai slashed at his enemy's stomach, causing him to fall over in agony as he slowly bleed. Gojira yelled as he continued to fight more Spider-Crab members.
Destoroyah gave a war cry as he slammed against a few men. He swung his axe wildly against anyone who came close. He struck a Takeshi against his neck, decapitating him. Destoroyah swung his axe against another man's chest, puncturing his lung. The new clan leader removed the axe from the chest and continued to attack any enemy that came close. The factions all fired arrows at each other, causing fires to rage around the field. Some were stuck clashing blades with each other while others jabbed their spears into each other. As the battle went on, the sound of cries of anguish, agony and rage filled the night. Blood stained the green grass and smoke poisoned the air. Bodies began to litter the battlefield as both factions started lose their forces quickly.
Gojira panted as he stood with a few members of his family. He gasped as a magic bolt came flying towards them.
"Look out!" cried Gojira as he looked towards his uncle. Gojira dropped on the ground as the bolt came closer. Unfortunately, his uncle was struck in the chest by the magic bolt. Gojira turned and his eyes widened in horror as he uncle dropped down to the ground.
"Uncle! No!" cried Gojira as he rushed towards his fallen family member. His uncle lied down with wide, lifeless eyes. His eyes welled up with tears as he brought his hand over his uncle's eyes and brought his eyelids down. Gojira gritted his teeth as he heard the sound of a teleportation spell being used. He immediately turned as and thrust his sword at whatever was near. He struck an Elf bandit in his gut, causing him to groan in agony. Gojira forced him back and then stomped on the Elf's neck. He growled as he watched the battlefield and saw his clan and the men that volunteered to fight getting slayed. Gojira yelled as he charged into battle and continued to fight.
Destoroyah stalked through the battlefield with a few of his comrades at his side. He hardened his eyes as an arrow flew towards him. Destoroyah immediately grabbed one of his comrades and held him in front. The man cried out in agony as his chest caught the arrow and was thrown to the ground by Destoroyah. Destoroyah threw his axe across the field and struck a samurai's head. The young clan leader laughed darkly.
"The Takeshi clan will fall! With you gone, we will rule!" shouted Destoroyah. As he took another step forward, his helmet suddenly flew off of his head. His eyes widened as he felt an arrow whiz over his head and graze over his skull. He cried out in agony as he dropped to his knees and clutched his bleeding scalp. As more arrows came, more of Destoroyah's faction was killed off. Destoroyah dove for cover and shielded his head, but cried out in pain as a few arrows struck his arms and exposed areas. Destoroyah staggered up to his feet and snapped the arrows off. He seethed as he narrowed his eyes as he made his way over towards his axe. He yanked out of the dead Takeshi and continued on with more of his comrades passing him up.
Ishiro yelled as he slashed his foes with two of his katanas. He spun as he swung his sword at two men that cornered him and struck them with fatal wounds. Ishiro ducked as another man swung a kanabo at him and pushed him away. Ishiro then stabbed the same man with both of his swords. Ishiro turned and found Destoroyah stomping towards him as his scalp bleed. Ishiro hardened his stare as he charged towards the rival clan leader. Destoroyah swung his axe against another nearby Takeshi and then picked up an abandoned kanabo. Destoroyah then yelled as he charged towards Ishiro and engaged him in combat. Ishiro dodged his kanabo swings and swung his katana at Destoroyah, but only managed to graze the armor. Destoroyah kicked him away and then swung his kanabo at him, making Ishiro cry out as he flew a few feet away. As he landed, Ishiro groaned as he clutched his aching side. The steel bat-like weapon had managed to hurt him under his armor. The Takeshi rolled away from Destoroyah as he swung his kanabo down on him. He shot up to his feet and cut Destoroyah's arm, causing him to yell in pain.
"You bastard! You will pay for killing my uncle! Just like you will pay for killing my clan!" shouted Destoroyah as he rushed towards Ishiro.
"I don't know what you are talking about! You were the ones who invaded our territory!" shouted Ishiro as he swung his sword against Destoroyah but his weapon flew out of his hand. Destoroyah had disarmed Ishiro by swinging his kanabo against it. Destoroyah kicked Ishiro away, causing him to fall onto his back.
"One of you killed him. And as the new head of the Spider-crab clan, I will wipe out your pathetic clan!" shouted Destoroyah as he raised his kanabo into the air. Before he could bring it down, Gojira rushed towards his side and sliced at Destoroyah's side.
"Gah!!" cried Destoroyah as he hunched over and clutched his bleeding side. He turned and glared at Gojira, who twirled his sword in his hand.
"Son!" cried Ishiro as he struggled to his feet. Gojira growled as he held his weapon tightly. Destoroyah roared as he charged towards Gojira and swung his weapon against him. The boy dodged his attacks and then sent a kick towards him. Destoroyah staggered back and growled in anger.
The rest of the clan factions were beginning to dwindle into fewer numbers. More bodies littered the field as the fires raged. The smell of blood overlapped with the smell of smoke. The battle cries grew much quieter as the clans attempted to destroy each other.
Gojira and Ishiro fought against Destoroyah and three of his comrades. They fought with all of their might. Ishiro dodged a sword strike and then jabbed his blade into his enemy. He then drew out his second sword and cut another man's gut. Ishiro rolled away from a third enemy and then delivered multiple jabs before placing his hands around his enemy's head and snapping his neck. Ishiro found an Elf man appearing and charging his magic. Ishiro steeled himself for the fight but noticed that the Elf had just disappeared.
The Elf reappeared inside of the village, but also near the Takeshi house. He chuckled darkly as his eyes flashed green and his irises turned red. He sent a magic beam through the house, where a few cries and screams could be heard. He stepped inside and found a few women and a couple of children inside. The Elf placed his hands together as they sparked with dark magic.
"If we can't beat them, we can sure as hell take away any lineage," said the Elf. The sound of screams filled the air as dark magic flashed in the house. A few men that volunteered to protect the inside of the village gasped as they turned towards the house.
"They've invaded the Takeshi house!" cried one of the men. They all rushed out towards the house and entered through the hole. They gasped as they found their clan members lying dead. One of the men dropped to their knees.
"No..."
Back in the battlefield, the numbers of samurais dropped further. All that was left were Gojira, Ishiro, and Destoroyah. Gojira’s helmet was off, exposing his face to Destoroyah. Destoroyah growled as he glared at the battlefield.
"You bastards! First you kill my uncle three days ago, and now you kill my clan!" shouted Destoroyah in anger. He was confident in his clan's strength and could not comprehend on how he was the only one left. Gojira’s eyes widened.
"Three days ago?" asked Gojira. He thought back the men that he had killed and remembered that one of the bandits bore a familiar symbol as a tattoo. The last bandit that he killed had a spider-like crab on his arm. His eyes widened in shock as he found the same symbol on one of the flags that hung over a dead Spider-Crab member.
"Oh my god. Wh-What have I done?" muttered Gojira as he trembled.
"Gojira! Remain focused!" said Ishiro. Destoroyah growled.
"I'll kill you all!" shouted Destoroyah. Gojira and Ishiro charged towards him and dodged his attacks. They both sliced Destoroyah in his sides, causing him to slump over and cry out in agony. He was bleeding profusely, Ishiro and Gojira panting as they glared at him.
"You're finished," said Ishiro. As he raised his sword to finish Destoroyah, he and Gojira were blasted away by a spell. They both grunted as they landed. Gojira glared at the Elf that appeared before picking up his sword and charging towards him. The Elf suddenly vanished and appeared at Gojira’s side. The boy's eyes widened as he felt his stitches open back up. He growled in pain and was knocked to the ground. The Elf chuckled as he leaned over Gojira and removed Gojira’s protective gauntlet. He found the boy to be bleeding profusely from his open wound. The Elf levitated a small glass bottle and wrapped Gojira’s wound in a black aura. Gojira cried out in agony as he felt the magic burn him and draw out his blood. The Elf chuckled as he stared at the blood. He turned as he found Ishiro charging towards him with his sword. The Elf leapt away from the samurai and landed near Destoroyah.
"See ya!" said the Elf. The two suddenly vanished in a plume of dark magic. Ishiro panted as he glared at the plume of smoke. He turned to Gojira and looked at him worriedly.
"Son, we need to sew your wound!" said Ishiro. Gojira nodded as he was helped to stand on his feet. The two walked across the battlefield in a quick pace and made their way towards the village. They were greeted by a few people, who took Gojira towards a hut. Ishiro turned towards the men that were defending the village, looking down solemnly.
"Takeshi, something terrible has happened while you were gone," said one of the men. Ishiro looked at him in worry. The men led Ishiro towards the Takeshi house and into the hole that was made. Ishiro's eyes widened as he dropped to his knees and dropped his sword, his breaths growing heavy. He gritted his teeth as he stared at the corpses of what he thought were going to be the survivors of his clan. He gave a sorrowful cry to the heavens as he slammed his fists onto the ground.
The next day...
Gojira and Ishiro stood by in silence as they stood inside of the nearby forest. They both stood among many tombstones that displayed the names of the men and family members who had perished the previous night. Gojira looked down in anger. His eyes ran with tears.
"This is my fault. If I hadn't killed those bandits, maybe our clan would be..." Gojira dropped to his knees as he held in his sobs. The guilt that he felt for the death of his family was overwhelming. Never did he imagine that he would lose them all on one night. Ishiro knelt next to his son and pulled him into a hug.
"No, my son. You did it to defend our fellow villagers. What happened is not your fault," said Ishiro as he sniffled. Gojira sobbed into his shoulder. His father rubbed his head in comfort as he lowered his own head. "They died fighting for our home. This is not your fault, my son. Given the Spider-Crab clan's reputation, this was inevitable,"
"I...I feel so empty now. Nobody is left," said Gojira as he gritted his teeth.
"No, our family may be gone, but we are not alone. We have each other, Tetsu, and the village that we protect," said Ishiro. Gojira sniffled to himself. The two released each other and stared at the tomb stones.
"Let's continue to live on for our family, who sacrificed their lives so that our home would be safe," said Ishiro. Gojira looked down in sadness.
"I complained about having to protect the people of the village. I thought...they should defend themselves," said Gojira. He then hardened his stare.
"Now I know that they can't defend themselves against every foe. If we hadn't stepped in, the village may have suffered," said Gojira. He then turned to face his father. "Father, I want to become stronger. I want to be strong enough to stand against any man or beast. I want to be able to prevent massacres like this from happening."
"Of course, my son. I will continue to teach you and together, we will defend our home from any foe," said Ishiro with a nod of approval. The two faced the tombstones again and remained silent. They mourned the family that they had lost. Ishiro glanced at Gojira, realizing that he was the last hope of the survival of his lineage.
One week later...
Inside of a dark cell, Destoroyah sat down in a cell. His wounds were sealed by burns. He was chained and bounded to the cell. A guard looked over his shoulder in disgust.
"I can't wait until you rot and die in your cell. The world is a better place without lunatics like you," said the guard. Destoroyah narrowed his eyes.
"My clan was the greatest thing to ever happen to Neighpon! But you fools had abolished feudalism and took away any power that we had. Now, there is nothing left of us but me," said Destoroyah in a growling tone. The guard smirked.
"Good. No one has to worry about the Spider-Crab clan making a comeback," said the guard. Destoroyah growled angrily as he lowered his head and huddled in the corner. He failed to bring his clan back to greatness and instead led it to its demise. He sighed as he lowered his head.
"I failed you, grandfather," muttered Destoroyah.
The Frozen North...
The night sky was freezing cold. The northern lights illuminated the night sky as the blizzard took hold of the land. A Neighponese Elf man strolled down through the temple of Shadows in silence. He made his way into a large room and knelt down.
"Master Thanatos, I have returned," said the Elf. From the shadows, Thanatos emerged with a neutral expression.
"How did everything go?" asked Thanatos.
"Destoroyah is alive but he's currently locked away in Neighpon. The stupid bastard thought that he could still trust me. I spent years trying to earn his trust. Now it's worked out in the end," said the Elf.
"Excellent. What of Gojira Takeshi?" asked Thanatos. The Elf sighed.
"He's still alive. I had to get Destoroyah out of there," said the Elf. Thanatos sighed as he shook his head.
"That will be a problem. He is a Kaiju reincarnated as well. No doubt that he was reborn to interfere with our plans," said Thanatos. He turned to face the Elf with a hard stare.
"I will let this mistake slide this once. But I want Takeshi dead, or at least broken. The plan cannot fail," said Thanatos. The Elf nodded.
"Yes, but accept this offering, master," said the Elf as he took out a glass vile filled with blood. He handed it to Thanatos, who looked at it curiously.
"What's this?" asked Thanatos.
"Takeshi's blood. With MONARCH's resources and the DNA of the Kaiju that he was reincarnated after, we should be able to make use of this in the future," said the Elf. He waved his hand. "Imagine, a reincarnated Gojira that obeys us,"
Thanatos's interest peaked. He knew what the Elf was getting at. He smiled darkly as he stared at the vile of blood.
"Yes, this will become very useful," said Thanatos. He chuckled darkly a he stared at the blood, a dark scheme brewing in his mind. He then turned to the other side of the room and found Ghidorah standing with his arms crossed.
"Soon, we will be ready with phase one of our plan. I hope you are ready," said Thanatos. Ghidorah smirked.
"I've been ready for almost a thousand years," said Ghidorah.
Present day...
Kiryu stared at the image of Ishiro. The man stood with a neutral expression, adorning samurai armor. The mech stared in silence as it analyzed the man.
"Father..." said Kiryu. Its eyes dimmed to yellow and faded to black. Kiryu shut down as it slumped its head over. The door to the large room began to open, revealing several engineers to be entering.
"Alright guys, let's get to work," said a Neighponese man as he looked at Kiryu.