Post by Deleted on Apr 30, 2016 23:11:02 GMT -5
Hwa-Jae always considered the main temple building to be both a place of comfort and a looming structure of intimidation. The building itself was constructed with large blocks of sandstone to the shape of a wide pyramid. Long flags marked with the symbol of the Kasai Order draped across the sides of the pyramids walls. Grand braziers of brass held roaring fires and burning embers set to light not by flint and tinder, but rather through the power of the Kasai Guardians. As night fell upon the temple grounds, the light of the braziers gave light to the steep stone staircase that led to the temple entrance. Old Master Fuega claimed to have built the temple by herself almost eight hundred years. If this was true, then the fact that it stood for so long was a testament to the Kasai Order.
How many times did Hwa-Jae walk these same steps seeking guidance and wisdom? How many times did she march up the stone stairs to face Elder Sister Pyya and her particular brand of discipline? Countless times each, Hwa-Jae guessed, nevermind her daily and nightly runs up and down the steps. On her last count, there were one hundred and eighty nine.
Yet something seemed different about the ascent she did now. With Cineza by her side, Old Master Fuega taking the lead, and Pyya taking the rear, something about their little procession unnerved Hwa-Jae. She felt a heaviness in the air. Something profound was about to happen, she could feel it.
The four entered the main structure to be met with the massive, two storey pyre that roared in the center of the massive chamber. The Sacred Flame, the burning symbol of the Kasai Order, was said to have burned even longer than how long the Order existed. Seeing the Flame gave Hwa-Jae a good measure of comfort.
They continued past the Sacred Pyre and headed for the elder quarters, no one saying a word. Only the sound of crackling flames, boots, wooden sandals, and Fuega’s cane echoed in the stone halls. It was odd to Hwa-Jae that they did not see any other Guardians or Sisters in the main temple building. Even at this time of night, there would have been some semblance of life within the halls. Did Fuega send them away, and if so, why?
As soon as they arrived at Fuega’s personal quarters, Fuega opened the sliding paper door with her cane and motioned for her three pupils to enter. All three kneeled on offered cushions that surrounded a small table. Pyya took her spot at Fuega’s right hand. Cineza sat across from the Old Master as top student. Hwa-Jae knelt at the last remaining seat to Fuega’s left. Despite being the room where the founder of the Kasai called her own, the room itself was sparse of decor. A futon, a scroll stand, and the table made up the furnishings. Only four wall scrolls hung for aesthetics detailing four sacred beasts: the tortoise, the tiger, the phoenix, and the dragon.
“Would anyone like some tea?” Fuega offered. All three nodded in acceptance. Gathering up clay tea cups and a kettle, Fuega began the work of serving her students a warm beverage.
“It is better to have a relaxing drink with my honoured students before I give them news. We have much to discuss. I hope you do not mind ginger tea.” Fuega held the kettle in her palm and her skin started to glow like a burning ember. In a few moments, the kettle began to whistle, and Fuega prepared the tea.
As her Master worked, Hwa-Jae looked down on her own hands. Her teal gloves seemed to mock her. Every one of the Kasai Guardians and many of the students could control the Sukinbaningu, or the Burning Skin technique. Old Master Fuega showed her mastery of the second core skill of the Order with a kettle, bringing it to a boil in seconds. Hwa-Jae could not control the heat in her hands and thus had to wear the gloves of a novice. She suspected that was the reason she never took the Guardian Trials. Cineza removed her gloves when she was twelve. Hwa-Jae was twenty and embarrassed by the fact.
Fuega poured four cups of tea and placed them on the table. She then took her seat at her spot and took a sip. “Ah, that hits the spot,” Fuega said, “Please forgive the lack of refreshment beyond tea. I would prefer no distractions for the coming discussion. I have a presence in the energy of the world. I have felt the return of the Black Fire Witch and we are not prepared to face her in battle. The twilight of the Kasai has come.”
Silence hung heavy in the room. Tea was not consumed. Hwa-Jae felt her hands shake. The Black Fire Witch was little more than a bogeyman, a lesson on hubris taught to young acolytes. The tales of destruction the Witch wrought were something that made nightmares. Fuega always feared the return of the Witch. Hwa-Jae did not think it possible.
Cineza shared such feelings and gave them a voice. “Are you sure, Old Master? Isn’t the Witch a story? A legend?”
“Even legends have a modicum of truth, my child,” Fuega answered, “When I founded the Temple to share the wisdom of the Flame, the Black Fire Witch was my first student. Her power was undeniable, but she tapped into a source of pure chaos.I was forced to defeat her, but could not slay her, instead choosing to seal her away. Now the Witch has gathered enough strength to be free, and she will seek vengeance.”
Hwa-Jae took a deep breath and stopped her shaking hands. “Old Master, What can we do to protect our Temple and the world?”
“Ah beautiful Hwa-Jae, always so quick to be a Guardian, and you have not even taken your trials yet.” Fuega smiled at Hwa-Jae and gave the younger woman a feeling of calm. “That is why I called you here.”
“I have called you here to inform the three greatest of my students of my plan to defeat the Black Fire Witch.” Fuega met eyes with Hwa-Jae. She never thought she’d see the grandmotherly Fuega appear so serious.
“In the four corners of the world, I had hidden four brass braziers that contain powerful energy. This was meant to be a contingency plan in the event of the Witch’s return. I am sending you on a journey to those corners, the great mountains of the Earth: Mount Frappe, Mount Paozu, Mount Kiwi, and Fire Mountain. I had planned to use this journey to find an heir to my position as master, but in this time of need, desperate measures are required.”
Cineza smirked with her usual confidence. “Find some braziers in the world? That’ll be easy. Hwa-Jae and I will be done in a few days tops. Then we’ll show that Black Fire Bi--”
“You will remain here to provide defense for the Temple,” Fuega said, “your training with Pyya will also intensify. We must take all precautions for when the Black Fire Witch finally reveals herself.”
After being denied by Fuega, Cineza lowered her head, though Hwa-Jae could see her friend glowering with anger. She was not used to being denied anything, and Cineza longed to explore beyond the Temple’s walls. Granted, so did Hwa-Jae, but she had hoped to travel the world with her closest friend. Doubt filled her head. What if she failed? What would happen to the Temple then?
“
“Master, would it not be more prudent to send Cineza instead of Hwa-Jae?” Pyya regarded her master with a questioning eye. “While I do not doubt her ability, I doubt her strength will be enough for the coming trials.”
“Strength is not what is required,” Fuega replied, “I have faith in Hwa-Jae. The Black Fire Witch will focus her attention on us, not a lone acolyte.”
“By your will, Master.” Pyya bowed her head in respect and submission to her Master.
With a nod of her own, Fuega motioned to the three gathered. “We must be prepared to do our parts. If the Kasai are to survive, then our fiercest warrior will need the four embers from my hidden braziers. And always remember, my daughters, that even the smallest flame can create the greatest flame.”
Fuega cleared her throat. “That is all. Pyya, prepare Cineza for the weeks ahead. Hwa-Jae, I would ask that you remain here for some time.”
Hwa-Jae watched as Pyya left first, followed by Cineza. Left alone with the Old Master, Hwa-Jae could not help but feel nervous. Yes, she was personally tutored in the ki arts by Fuega but the fate of the Kasai did not rest on those lessons. She fidgeted in her seat as she waited for Fuega to address her.
“Hwa-Jae, a difficult task has been laid upon you,” Fuega said, taking another sip of her tea. “I must ask... are you afraid?”
Hwa-Jae felt her chest tighten at the question. The temple was the only home she ever knew and now she was to be sent away into a world she didn’t know with a people she did not know how to interact with to find lost braziers in the far reaches of the world. Of course she was afraid, she was terrified.
“Yes, master,” Hwa-Jae answered honestly. “I’m afraid of the world beyond the temple, the world you want me to explore by myself. I’m afraid I will fail the Kasai. I’m afraid that I will never see my friends ever again.”
“And yet, if you do not go, all you hold dear will be consumed by the ebon flames.” Fuega placed a wrinkled hand on one of Hwa-Jae’s. “You are a fine young woman who will bring honour to the Kasai. Of this I have no doubt. I will send you a message when I feel the Black Fire Witch grow in power, pleading that you return to the Temple with all haste. As you search for the braziers, know that there are other martial arts masters who will help you grow strong. I believe with the strength and skill gained by both you and Cineza, the Black Fire Witch will not stand a chance.”
Hwa-Jae stood up and bowed to Fuega, her heart elated by her Master’s words. “Thank you for your confidence, my Master. I will strive to make the Kasai proud. We’ll stop the Black Fire Witch together.”
“Of that I have no doubt, dear pupil.” Fuega stood up and took hold of her cane. “Now, child, go and get some rest. Your journey will begin tomorrow. I will have provisions prepared for the road ahead. Good night.”
Hwa-Jae bowed to Fuega one last time before leaving the quarters and walking down the stone corridors once again. Her mind swam with all of the possibilities for the journey ahead. What would she? Who would she meet? Would she encounter new friends or new foes? One thing she knew for certain, she needed to speak with Cineza to ascertain her friend’s feelings.
She did not have to search far as Cineza waited for outside the main temple entrance. The lithe blonde leaned against the cold stone with her arms crossed. The light from the braziers, the night sky, and Cineza’s slight scowl gave her a disturbing visage.
“Cineza,” Hwa-Jae said, “I...”
Cineza shook her head. “No words right now. Let’s head down to the circle.”
Hwa-Jae nodded and joined Cineza down the steps of the temple towards the training grounds. The temple grounds were illuminated by several tall torches as the lights from the watchtowers. As they made their way to the circle, the pair passed a few of their fellow Sisters, Guardians on their nightly patrols. Hwa-Jae greeted her Sisters while Cineza remained silent.
The training grounds, simply referred to as the circle, was literally a massive stone circle arena with several stone pillars standing tall. Everything was blasted by scorch marks, evidence of centuries of Kasai training. Hwa-Jae knew what was to come, but she wanted Cineza to say it. It would make both of them feel better.
“Let’s spar,” Cineza said, entering her rather low battle stance. Hwa-Jae smiled, nodded, then took on her own stance with palms outstretched.
“Ki attacks?” she asked. Cineza shook her head.
“Hand to hand,” Cineza replied. “After our fire baseball game, I think it’s best to keep it simple. Ready?”
Hwa-Jae nodded, keeping her palms outward. She counted silently to ten and watched as Cineza sprung into action, just as Hwa-Jae expected. Cineza was strong, but her opening was always predictable. The blonde surged forward, spinning in the air and swinging her heel at Hwa-Jae’s head. She raised her forearm to block the heel kick. The strike reverberated through her her bones.
As Cineza landed on her feet, Hwa-Jae pressed the attack with several palm strikes aimed at Cineza’s head. Cineza showed her fighting acumen as she parried each of Hwa-Jae’s strikes with ease. She then retaliated by throwing a series of punches, each one timed just enough to throw Hwa-Jae off. She managed to dodge the blows, but Hwa-Jae could feel the aih blow past her face with each near miss.
With every strike Cineza made, she advanced while Hwa-Jae kept getting pushed towards the edge of the stone circle. Hwa-Jae grimaced as her pressed against the edge of circle. She needed to get the upper hand.
Taking drastic measures, Hwa-Jae threw a wild roundhouse kick. It had the required effect, forcing Cineza backwards, giving Hwa-Jae some much needed room. Cineza clenched her teeth and threw herself into another charge. Seeing this, Hwa-Jae took to the air, jumping clear over Cineza’s head and landing right behind her. She then threw a back kick taking aim at the small of Cineza’s back.
However, Cineza always showed to have excellent battlefield presence. Before Hwa-Jae’s foot could connect, Cinza caught the extended ankle. With a hard twist, Cineza forced Hwa-Jae to spin in the air. Hwa-Jae gave a yelp as she landed on the cold stone, but she knew there was no time to moan in pain. Cineza already lifted her heel high in the air for a devastating axe kick.
Hwa-Jae rolled out of the way just in time for Cineza’s heel to smash into the stone. Splinters of rock kicked up from the blow, but they were little more than a nuisance. Spinning onto her hands, Hwa-Jae propped herself into a handstand. She the extended her legs, taking hold of Cineza’s head between her calves. Without giving Cineza a time to react, Hwa-Jae used her whole body weight to throw Cineza with a head-scissor takedown. Cineza landed on her back with a thud, but she quickly jumped back to feet. The two Kasai took up their stances once more, slowly circling each other.
“You’ve learned a trick or two since the last time we trained,” Cineza said.
Hwa-Jae smiled. “You’ll find I’ve been expanding my repertoire.”
To prove her point, Hwa-Jae struck with a knife edged chop at Cineza’s neck. When Cineza inevitably blocked the strike, Hwa-Jae turned her entire body a swung her other hand for a stiff backhand strike. Cineza managed to duck under the back fist and landed a couple punches on Hwa-Jae’s midsection.
Hwa-Jae coughed from the twin blows, recoiling away from Cineza with one hand clutching her gut while the other acted as a feeble guard. She did manage to tighten her abdominals, but it was meager in the face of Cineza’s incredible strength. Being struck by Cineza gave her pause: if she could not stand against her best friend, how could she stand against enemies beyond the Temple’s walls?
Clenching her fists, Hwa-Jae lashed out with a side kicked meant to take out Cineza’s sternum. The kick moved swiftly yet Cineza still managed to block the attack. Before Cineza could counter, Hwa-Jae jumped up and twisted her body so she could throw another swinging kick. This one connected with the head, sending the blonde flying across the circle.
Cineza skidded against the stone until she recovered, bouncing back to her feet with frustration in her eyes. She then chuckled. “I can always count on two people to pressure me the most out of all the Kasai: Elder Sister Pyya and you.”
“Elder Sister Pyya kicks both of us around on a weekly basis,” Hwa-Jae replied.
“We’re the strongest of the Kasai,” Cineza continued, “We should be on this journey together, not sending you into the wilds of the world by yourself! We always planned for this day, but now I’m stuck here to train with Pyya still!”
Hwa-Jae knew Cineza had a temper, but she never saw it flare up like this before. The ground shook from the pressure exuded by Cineza’s immense ki. In her hands two fireballs formed which gave Hwa-Jae alarm. She opened her palms as well creating two hinotamas. She did not intend to use them against Cineza, but prepared them for her own defence.
“Cineza! Enough!” Hwa-Jae shouted, “Remember your training! What does it say about your strength if you can’t control your emotions!”
“I have mastered the hinotama, the iyashino-en, and the sukinbaningu! That’s more than you can say, Hwa-Jae! You still wear the gloves of a novice! I should be the one on the journey! Me!” Cineza’s golden aura flared up around her. Never had Hwa-Jae seen Cineza so furious.
“Groys Shol!”
The voice of Elder Sister Pyya shook the night as a blue segmented shell of ki surrounded Cineza. She roared, but the ki shell muted her voice. Pyya stepped out from behind one of the stone pillars, staring down both young women with disgust. Hwa-Jae let her fireballs dissipate. After a time trapped in the shell, Cineza hung her head and cancelled her own hinotamas.
“It is because of your lack of personal control that the Old Master did not choose you. I see this now.” Pyya turned to look at Hwa-Jae. “Return to your quarters, Hwa-Jae. You will need rest, and I must speak with Cineza in private.”
Hwa-Jae relented to her superior, bowing low before turning away. She gave one last lingering look to Cineza, then turned to return to the living quarters. Her arms stung now that the adrenaline rush of battle wore off. Fatigue followed soon after, and Hwa-Jae’s movements began to be sluggish. She yawned and stretched then made her way back to her room.
The room was small with two bunk beds and a single dresser meant to be shared between two novices. Of course, Hwa-Jae shared the room with Cineza. Lined on their walls were various photographs, some old and faded, some new and clear. All of them showed Hwa-Jae and Cineza in various stages of life. Since they were small, the two were inseparable.
Now that would all change overnight.
Hwa-Jae sat on the foot of her bed, kicking off her boots and then slipping off her socks. She removed the rest of her uniform except for her sarashi bindings. Instead, she slipped on her sleeping robe, tied it around her waist, and then slid into bed.
Before deep slumber took her, Hwa-Jae heard boots stomp against the stone floor of her room. She felt the edge of her bed depress and the sound of boots being thrown across the room with a clatter. Hwa-Jae heard the rustle of clothes and the grumble from Cineza. Still silent, Hwa-Jae suddenly felt her mattress shift as Cineza joined her under the covers. She had not done this since they were children.
“Hwa-Jae?” Cineza spoke uncharacteristically timidly. “I’m sorry about earlier. I’m sorry for my outburst. You’ll do the Kasai proud. I just... I just...”
“I just don’t want you to leave me.”
Hwa-Jae did not know what to say in the face of such an admission, but before she could say anything at all, Cineza already slid out of the bed and jumped up to her own bunk. Her eyes welled up with tears and her body felt like a ton of bricks. As night wore on though, she knew she needed to sleep. Perhaps there would be time in the morning to speak with Cineza, or even petition to Old Master Fuega that the two should journey together after all.
She let her eyes close and tried to get some sleep. It did not come easily.
***
The morning sunlight peeked through the windows, rousing Hwa-Jae from her sleep. She stood up, yawned, and stretched then swung her feet out of bed. The stone floor felt cool to the bottom of her feet and only helped to wake her up.
“First day of the rest of my life,” Hwa-Jae muttered as she began to get dressed in a fresh uniform. She looked to see if Cineza slept in as she was known to do, but the top bunk was not only empty, but the bed was made perfectly. Hwa-Jae shook her head; she never understood the need to make a bed one would sleep on again.
Except this time, Hwa-Jae would not sleep in her bed tonight. She would be elsewhere tonight, far from the walls that she called home. She would be far from the wisdom and knowledge of her teachers and mentors. She would be far from friends who gave her comfort in turbulent time. She would be far from Cineza.
Hwa-Jae sighed and started to make her bed. Someone else might move in now that she would be gone. Once the bed was cleaned up, she found a sack and filled it with spare clothes, a prayer scroll, and lastly she picked up two photographs of her and Cineza. She smiled at them and tucked them safely in her sack. They would remind her what she journeyed for.
Slinging the sack over her shoulder, she made her way out of the living quarters to see the Old Master and the Elder Sister waiting for her at the edge of the stairs. Hwa-Jae bowed to her superiors in greeting.
“Ah, Hwa-Jae, good morning.” Old Master Fuega smiled at her student. “Are you prepared for the coming journey?”
“This will be the most harrowing trial you have ever faced,” Pyya added, “Remember your training and when in doubt, be like the calm hearthfire before unleashing a raging inferno. Analyze the situation, then choose a course of action. You have not encountered the people outside the Temple. Many will wish you harm.”
“Posh, the world is filled with many wonderful people that will help you.” Fuega nodded to Pyya and the latter handed Hwa-Jae a sack filled with food and zeni. “Those supplies will last you well until you reach west city.”
Pyya also gave Hwa-Jae a map. “I’ve marked the locations of the four mountains on that map. Return swiftly with the four embers. We don’t know when the Black Fire Witch will return, but we can’t take the chance that we time to squander.”
“Don’t worry, my mentors,” Hwa-Jae said, “I’ll find the embers and be back before the Black Fire Witch can cause any harm to the Order.”
“Then go with the blessing of the Kasai.” Fuega then bowed to Hwa-Jae. Smiling at her mentors, Hwa-Jae looked to the sky. She closed her eyes as she levitated into the air, ascending higher and higher until she began to soar away from the temple.
“Hwa-Jae!” Cineza’s shout echoed in the air, causing Hwa-Jae to stop in mid-air. Cineza floated next to Hwa-Jae and took her into a floating embrace.
“When next we meet, I think we’ll be vastly different people,” Cineza said.
“Not so different that we won’t still be friends.” Hwa-Jae gave Cineza a little extra squeeze before the two separated. “I’ll be back as soon as I can. Then we’ll face the Black Fire Witch together.”
Cineza smiled that wicked grin of hers. “She’ll definitely won’t see us coming. Now go on. You have a journey to complete.”
Hwa-Jae gave one last smile and a two-finger salute before hurtling off towards west city. Whether or not she flew off to her destiny, only time would tell.
***
WC: 4098
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How many times did Hwa-Jae walk these same steps seeking guidance and wisdom? How many times did she march up the stone stairs to face Elder Sister Pyya and her particular brand of discipline? Countless times each, Hwa-Jae guessed, nevermind her daily and nightly runs up and down the steps. On her last count, there were one hundred and eighty nine.
Yet something seemed different about the ascent she did now. With Cineza by her side, Old Master Fuega taking the lead, and Pyya taking the rear, something about their little procession unnerved Hwa-Jae. She felt a heaviness in the air. Something profound was about to happen, she could feel it.
The four entered the main structure to be met with the massive, two storey pyre that roared in the center of the massive chamber. The Sacred Flame, the burning symbol of the Kasai Order, was said to have burned even longer than how long the Order existed. Seeing the Flame gave Hwa-Jae a good measure of comfort.
They continued past the Sacred Pyre and headed for the elder quarters, no one saying a word. Only the sound of crackling flames, boots, wooden sandals, and Fuega’s cane echoed in the stone halls. It was odd to Hwa-Jae that they did not see any other Guardians or Sisters in the main temple building. Even at this time of night, there would have been some semblance of life within the halls. Did Fuega send them away, and if so, why?
As soon as they arrived at Fuega’s personal quarters, Fuega opened the sliding paper door with her cane and motioned for her three pupils to enter. All three kneeled on offered cushions that surrounded a small table. Pyya took her spot at Fuega’s right hand. Cineza sat across from the Old Master as top student. Hwa-Jae knelt at the last remaining seat to Fuega’s left. Despite being the room where the founder of the Kasai called her own, the room itself was sparse of decor. A futon, a scroll stand, and the table made up the furnishings. Only four wall scrolls hung for aesthetics detailing four sacred beasts: the tortoise, the tiger, the phoenix, and the dragon.
“Would anyone like some tea?” Fuega offered. All three nodded in acceptance. Gathering up clay tea cups and a kettle, Fuega began the work of serving her students a warm beverage.
“It is better to have a relaxing drink with my honoured students before I give them news. We have much to discuss. I hope you do not mind ginger tea.” Fuega held the kettle in her palm and her skin started to glow like a burning ember. In a few moments, the kettle began to whistle, and Fuega prepared the tea.
As her Master worked, Hwa-Jae looked down on her own hands. Her teal gloves seemed to mock her. Every one of the Kasai Guardians and many of the students could control the Sukinbaningu, or the Burning Skin technique. Old Master Fuega showed her mastery of the second core skill of the Order with a kettle, bringing it to a boil in seconds. Hwa-Jae could not control the heat in her hands and thus had to wear the gloves of a novice. She suspected that was the reason she never took the Guardian Trials. Cineza removed her gloves when she was twelve. Hwa-Jae was twenty and embarrassed by the fact.
Fuega poured four cups of tea and placed them on the table. She then took her seat at her spot and took a sip. “Ah, that hits the spot,” Fuega said, “Please forgive the lack of refreshment beyond tea. I would prefer no distractions for the coming discussion. I have a presence in the energy of the world. I have felt the return of the Black Fire Witch and we are not prepared to face her in battle. The twilight of the Kasai has come.”
Silence hung heavy in the room. Tea was not consumed. Hwa-Jae felt her hands shake. The Black Fire Witch was little more than a bogeyman, a lesson on hubris taught to young acolytes. The tales of destruction the Witch wrought were something that made nightmares. Fuega always feared the return of the Witch. Hwa-Jae did not think it possible.
Cineza shared such feelings and gave them a voice. “Are you sure, Old Master? Isn’t the Witch a story? A legend?”
“Even legends have a modicum of truth, my child,” Fuega answered, “When I founded the Temple to share the wisdom of the Flame, the Black Fire Witch was my first student. Her power was undeniable, but she tapped into a source of pure chaos.I was forced to defeat her, but could not slay her, instead choosing to seal her away. Now the Witch has gathered enough strength to be free, and she will seek vengeance.”
Hwa-Jae took a deep breath and stopped her shaking hands. “Old Master, What can we do to protect our Temple and the world?”
“Ah beautiful Hwa-Jae, always so quick to be a Guardian, and you have not even taken your trials yet.” Fuega smiled at Hwa-Jae and gave the younger woman a feeling of calm. “That is why I called you here.”
“I have called you here to inform the three greatest of my students of my plan to defeat the Black Fire Witch.” Fuega met eyes with Hwa-Jae. She never thought she’d see the grandmotherly Fuega appear so serious.
“In the four corners of the world, I had hidden four brass braziers that contain powerful energy. This was meant to be a contingency plan in the event of the Witch’s return. I am sending you on a journey to those corners, the great mountains of the Earth: Mount Frappe, Mount Paozu, Mount Kiwi, and Fire Mountain. I had planned to use this journey to find an heir to my position as master, but in this time of need, desperate measures are required.”
Cineza smirked with her usual confidence. “Find some braziers in the world? That’ll be easy. Hwa-Jae and I will be done in a few days tops. Then we’ll show that Black Fire Bi--”
“You will remain here to provide defense for the Temple,” Fuega said, “your training with Pyya will also intensify. We must take all precautions for when the Black Fire Witch finally reveals herself.”
After being denied by Fuega, Cineza lowered her head, though Hwa-Jae could see her friend glowering with anger. She was not used to being denied anything, and Cineza longed to explore beyond the Temple’s walls. Granted, so did Hwa-Jae, but she had hoped to travel the world with her closest friend. Doubt filled her head. What if she failed? What would happen to the Temple then?
“
“Master, would it not be more prudent to send Cineza instead of Hwa-Jae?” Pyya regarded her master with a questioning eye. “While I do not doubt her ability, I doubt her strength will be enough for the coming trials.”
“Strength is not what is required,” Fuega replied, “I have faith in Hwa-Jae. The Black Fire Witch will focus her attention on us, not a lone acolyte.”
“By your will, Master.” Pyya bowed her head in respect and submission to her Master.
With a nod of her own, Fuega motioned to the three gathered. “We must be prepared to do our parts. If the Kasai are to survive, then our fiercest warrior will need the four embers from my hidden braziers. And always remember, my daughters, that even the smallest flame can create the greatest flame.”
Fuega cleared her throat. “That is all. Pyya, prepare Cineza for the weeks ahead. Hwa-Jae, I would ask that you remain here for some time.”
Hwa-Jae watched as Pyya left first, followed by Cineza. Left alone with the Old Master, Hwa-Jae could not help but feel nervous. Yes, she was personally tutored in the ki arts by Fuega but the fate of the Kasai did not rest on those lessons. She fidgeted in her seat as she waited for Fuega to address her.
“Hwa-Jae, a difficult task has been laid upon you,” Fuega said, taking another sip of her tea. “I must ask... are you afraid?”
Hwa-Jae felt her chest tighten at the question. The temple was the only home she ever knew and now she was to be sent away into a world she didn’t know with a people she did not know how to interact with to find lost braziers in the far reaches of the world. Of course she was afraid, she was terrified.
“Yes, master,” Hwa-Jae answered honestly. “I’m afraid of the world beyond the temple, the world you want me to explore by myself. I’m afraid I will fail the Kasai. I’m afraid that I will never see my friends ever again.”
“And yet, if you do not go, all you hold dear will be consumed by the ebon flames.” Fuega placed a wrinkled hand on one of Hwa-Jae’s. “You are a fine young woman who will bring honour to the Kasai. Of this I have no doubt. I will send you a message when I feel the Black Fire Witch grow in power, pleading that you return to the Temple with all haste. As you search for the braziers, know that there are other martial arts masters who will help you grow strong. I believe with the strength and skill gained by both you and Cineza, the Black Fire Witch will not stand a chance.”
Hwa-Jae stood up and bowed to Fuega, her heart elated by her Master’s words. “Thank you for your confidence, my Master. I will strive to make the Kasai proud. We’ll stop the Black Fire Witch together.”
“Of that I have no doubt, dear pupil.” Fuega stood up and took hold of her cane. “Now, child, go and get some rest. Your journey will begin tomorrow. I will have provisions prepared for the road ahead. Good night.”
Hwa-Jae bowed to Fuega one last time before leaving the quarters and walking down the stone corridors once again. Her mind swam with all of the possibilities for the journey ahead. What would she? Who would she meet? Would she encounter new friends or new foes? One thing she knew for certain, she needed to speak with Cineza to ascertain her friend’s feelings.
She did not have to search far as Cineza waited for outside the main temple entrance. The lithe blonde leaned against the cold stone with her arms crossed. The light from the braziers, the night sky, and Cineza’s slight scowl gave her a disturbing visage.
“Cineza,” Hwa-Jae said, “I...”
Cineza shook her head. “No words right now. Let’s head down to the circle.”
Hwa-Jae nodded and joined Cineza down the steps of the temple towards the training grounds. The temple grounds were illuminated by several tall torches as the lights from the watchtowers. As they made their way to the circle, the pair passed a few of their fellow Sisters, Guardians on their nightly patrols. Hwa-Jae greeted her Sisters while Cineza remained silent.
The training grounds, simply referred to as the circle, was literally a massive stone circle arena with several stone pillars standing tall. Everything was blasted by scorch marks, evidence of centuries of Kasai training. Hwa-Jae knew what was to come, but she wanted Cineza to say it. It would make both of them feel better.
“Let’s spar,” Cineza said, entering her rather low battle stance. Hwa-Jae smiled, nodded, then took on her own stance with palms outstretched.
“Ki attacks?” she asked. Cineza shook her head.
“Hand to hand,” Cineza replied. “After our fire baseball game, I think it’s best to keep it simple. Ready?”
Hwa-Jae nodded, keeping her palms outward. She counted silently to ten and watched as Cineza sprung into action, just as Hwa-Jae expected. Cineza was strong, but her opening was always predictable. The blonde surged forward, spinning in the air and swinging her heel at Hwa-Jae’s head. She raised her forearm to block the heel kick. The strike reverberated through her her bones.
As Cineza landed on her feet, Hwa-Jae pressed the attack with several palm strikes aimed at Cineza’s head. Cineza showed her fighting acumen as she parried each of Hwa-Jae’s strikes with ease. She then retaliated by throwing a series of punches, each one timed just enough to throw Hwa-Jae off. She managed to dodge the blows, but Hwa-Jae could feel the aih blow past her face with each near miss.
With every strike Cineza made, she advanced while Hwa-Jae kept getting pushed towards the edge of the stone circle. Hwa-Jae grimaced as her pressed against the edge of circle. She needed to get the upper hand.
Taking drastic measures, Hwa-Jae threw a wild roundhouse kick. It had the required effect, forcing Cineza backwards, giving Hwa-Jae some much needed room. Cineza clenched her teeth and threw herself into another charge. Seeing this, Hwa-Jae took to the air, jumping clear over Cineza’s head and landing right behind her. She then threw a back kick taking aim at the small of Cineza’s back.
However, Cineza always showed to have excellent battlefield presence. Before Hwa-Jae’s foot could connect, Cinza caught the extended ankle. With a hard twist, Cineza forced Hwa-Jae to spin in the air. Hwa-Jae gave a yelp as she landed on the cold stone, but she knew there was no time to moan in pain. Cineza already lifted her heel high in the air for a devastating axe kick.
Hwa-Jae rolled out of the way just in time for Cineza’s heel to smash into the stone. Splinters of rock kicked up from the blow, but they were little more than a nuisance. Spinning onto her hands, Hwa-Jae propped herself into a handstand. She the extended her legs, taking hold of Cineza’s head between her calves. Without giving Cineza a time to react, Hwa-Jae used her whole body weight to throw Cineza with a head-scissor takedown. Cineza landed on her back with a thud, but she quickly jumped back to feet. The two Kasai took up their stances once more, slowly circling each other.
“You’ve learned a trick or two since the last time we trained,” Cineza said.
Hwa-Jae smiled. “You’ll find I’ve been expanding my repertoire.”
To prove her point, Hwa-Jae struck with a knife edged chop at Cineza’s neck. When Cineza inevitably blocked the strike, Hwa-Jae turned her entire body a swung her other hand for a stiff backhand strike. Cineza managed to duck under the back fist and landed a couple punches on Hwa-Jae’s midsection.
Hwa-Jae coughed from the twin blows, recoiling away from Cineza with one hand clutching her gut while the other acted as a feeble guard. She did manage to tighten her abdominals, but it was meager in the face of Cineza’s incredible strength. Being struck by Cineza gave her pause: if she could not stand against her best friend, how could she stand against enemies beyond the Temple’s walls?
Clenching her fists, Hwa-Jae lashed out with a side kicked meant to take out Cineza’s sternum. The kick moved swiftly yet Cineza still managed to block the attack. Before Cineza could counter, Hwa-Jae jumped up and twisted her body so she could throw another swinging kick. This one connected with the head, sending the blonde flying across the circle.
Cineza skidded against the stone until she recovered, bouncing back to her feet with frustration in her eyes. She then chuckled. “I can always count on two people to pressure me the most out of all the Kasai: Elder Sister Pyya and you.”
“Elder Sister Pyya kicks both of us around on a weekly basis,” Hwa-Jae replied.
“We’re the strongest of the Kasai,” Cineza continued, “We should be on this journey together, not sending you into the wilds of the world by yourself! We always planned for this day, but now I’m stuck here to train with Pyya still!”
Hwa-Jae knew Cineza had a temper, but she never saw it flare up like this before. The ground shook from the pressure exuded by Cineza’s immense ki. In her hands two fireballs formed which gave Hwa-Jae alarm. She opened her palms as well creating two hinotamas. She did not intend to use them against Cineza, but prepared them for her own defence.
“Cineza! Enough!” Hwa-Jae shouted, “Remember your training! What does it say about your strength if you can’t control your emotions!”
“I have mastered the hinotama, the iyashino-en, and the sukinbaningu! That’s more than you can say, Hwa-Jae! You still wear the gloves of a novice! I should be the one on the journey! Me!” Cineza’s golden aura flared up around her. Never had Hwa-Jae seen Cineza so furious.
“Groys Shol!”
The voice of Elder Sister Pyya shook the night as a blue segmented shell of ki surrounded Cineza. She roared, but the ki shell muted her voice. Pyya stepped out from behind one of the stone pillars, staring down both young women with disgust. Hwa-Jae let her fireballs dissipate. After a time trapped in the shell, Cineza hung her head and cancelled her own hinotamas.
“It is because of your lack of personal control that the Old Master did not choose you. I see this now.” Pyya turned to look at Hwa-Jae. “Return to your quarters, Hwa-Jae. You will need rest, and I must speak with Cineza in private.”
Hwa-Jae relented to her superior, bowing low before turning away. She gave one last lingering look to Cineza, then turned to return to the living quarters. Her arms stung now that the adrenaline rush of battle wore off. Fatigue followed soon after, and Hwa-Jae’s movements began to be sluggish. She yawned and stretched then made her way back to her room.
The room was small with two bunk beds and a single dresser meant to be shared between two novices. Of course, Hwa-Jae shared the room with Cineza. Lined on their walls were various photographs, some old and faded, some new and clear. All of them showed Hwa-Jae and Cineza in various stages of life. Since they were small, the two were inseparable.
Now that would all change overnight.
Hwa-Jae sat on the foot of her bed, kicking off her boots and then slipping off her socks. She removed the rest of her uniform except for her sarashi bindings. Instead, she slipped on her sleeping robe, tied it around her waist, and then slid into bed.
Before deep slumber took her, Hwa-Jae heard boots stomp against the stone floor of her room. She felt the edge of her bed depress and the sound of boots being thrown across the room with a clatter. Hwa-Jae heard the rustle of clothes and the grumble from Cineza. Still silent, Hwa-Jae suddenly felt her mattress shift as Cineza joined her under the covers. She had not done this since they were children.
“Hwa-Jae?” Cineza spoke uncharacteristically timidly. “I’m sorry about earlier. I’m sorry for my outburst. You’ll do the Kasai proud. I just... I just...”
“I just don’t want you to leave me.”
Hwa-Jae did not know what to say in the face of such an admission, but before she could say anything at all, Cineza already slid out of the bed and jumped up to her own bunk. Her eyes welled up with tears and her body felt like a ton of bricks. As night wore on though, she knew she needed to sleep. Perhaps there would be time in the morning to speak with Cineza, or even petition to Old Master Fuega that the two should journey together after all.
She let her eyes close and tried to get some sleep. It did not come easily.
***
The morning sunlight peeked through the windows, rousing Hwa-Jae from her sleep. She stood up, yawned, and stretched then swung her feet out of bed. The stone floor felt cool to the bottom of her feet and only helped to wake her up.
“First day of the rest of my life,” Hwa-Jae muttered as she began to get dressed in a fresh uniform. She looked to see if Cineza slept in as she was known to do, but the top bunk was not only empty, but the bed was made perfectly. Hwa-Jae shook her head; she never understood the need to make a bed one would sleep on again.
Except this time, Hwa-Jae would not sleep in her bed tonight. She would be elsewhere tonight, far from the walls that she called home. She would be far from the wisdom and knowledge of her teachers and mentors. She would be far from friends who gave her comfort in turbulent time. She would be far from Cineza.
Hwa-Jae sighed and started to make her bed. Someone else might move in now that she would be gone. Once the bed was cleaned up, she found a sack and filled it with spare clothes, a prayer scroll, and lastly she picked up two photographs of her and Cineza. She smiled at them and tucked them safely in her sack. They would remind her what she journeyed for.
Slinging the sack over her shoulder, she made her way out of the living quarters to see the Old Master and the Elder Sister waiting for her at the edge of the stairs. Hwa-Jae bowed to her superiors in greeting.
“Ah, Hwa-Jae, good morning.” Old Master Fuega smiled at her student. “Are you prepared for the coming journey?”
“This will be the most harrowing trial you have ever faced,” Pyya added, “Remember your training and when in doubt, be like the calm hearthfire before unleashing a raging inferno. Analyze the situation, then choose a course of action. You have not encountered the people outside the Temple. Many will wish you harm.”
“Posh, the world is filled with many wonderful people that will help you.” Fuega nodded to Pyya and the latter handed Hwa-Jae a sack filled with food and zeni. “Those supplies will last you well until you reach west city.”
Pyya also gave Hwa-Jae a map. “I’ve marked the locations of the four mountains on that map. Return swiftly with the four embers. We don’t know when the Black Fire Witch will return, but we can’t take the chance that we time to squander.”
“Don’t worry, my mentors,” Hwa-Jae said, “I’ll find the embers and be back before the Black Fire Witch can cause any harm to the Order.”
“Then go with the blessing of the Kasai.” Fuega then bowed to Hwa-Jae. Smiling at her mentors, Hwa-Jae looked to the sky. She closed her eyes as she levitated into the air, ascending higher and higher until she began to soar away from the temple.
“Hwa-Jae!” Cineza’s shout echoed in the air, causing Hwa-Jae to stop in mid-air. Cineza floated next to Hwa-Jae and took her into a floating embrace.
“When next we meet, I think we’ll be vastly different people,” Cineza said.
“Not so different that we won’t still be friends.” Hwa-Jae gave Cineza a little extra squeeze before the two separated. “I’ll be back as soon as I can. Then we’ll face the Black Fire Witch together.”
Cineza smiled that wicked grin of hers. “She’ll definitely won’t see us coming. Now go on. You have a journey to complete.”
Hwa-Jae gave one last smile and a two-finger salute before hurtling off towards west city. Whether or not she flew off to her destiny, only time would tell.
***
WC: 4098
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