The Divine Core

Deep within the Heian Era, Daemons ascended, their presence unyielding with most prominence in Japan. The shackles of shattered harmony in the realm of epic proportions bloomed. The bridge between good and evil emerged to commence a quest: to restore balance, to rewrite destiny; that the world may know peace once more. But, with a saga forged in strife, a Celestial storm brewed, valour ablaze… > > As the sun dipped behind Tokyo's skyline on a mid-August evening, the city prepared for the annual Obon celebration. Lanterns adorned streets, casting a warm glow upon kimono-clad figures. Families, draped in vibrant yukatas, gathered in parks, their laughter resonating with the rhythm of traditional taiko drums. The air hummed with anticipation as dancers, adorned in intricate yukata patterns, swayed gracefully to folk melodies. Against the city lights, the night embraced a joyous spirit, with locals and visitors alike partaking

••• ∅ ••• "There comes a point when a dream becomes a reality and a reality becomes a dream…" ••• ∅ ••• ••• Ten Years Later ••• Thirty-three masters-in-training gathered to observe a variety of sparring sessions between their sensei, a master of the arts, and a handpicked student. The student took advantage of the opportunity to practice techniques learned against the best of the best. The landscape unfolded in a canvas of flat, well-tended ground. Grassy patches underfoot provided a soft landing for the combatants, while sturdy trees stood at a distance, their leaves rustling in a gentle breeze. The weather, perfectly suited for combat, presented a cool and dry atmosphere. The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm glow without the oppressive heat. The breeze, just brisk enough to keep things comfortable, carried with it the earthy scent of the surrounding nature. The clear blue sky overhead offered an unobstructed view, ensuring that visibility was at its pri

••• ‡ ••• Once upon a time, I was lonely. Just a basic kid with a basic life. Then I thought, 'what really is the point of life?' 'Cause it seemed like I had no reason to live. Being an introvert really is a pain in the ass, but you'll grow to love the pain. About a month ago, dad came up to me to have a talk… "Now that you're all grown up, I think you're ready to give an answer, right?" he asked me. "Oh dear God, we're doing this again?" I asked reluctantly. "C'mon son, it's about time we got this over with." "Alright, fine," I resented, sighing. "Great!" he said, pleased with my decision. "Now tell me, what exactly is your purpose in life?" "Hmm…." I thought. "As of recently?" "Yeah, sure." "Uhhh…. Hmm…. Let's see…. If I were to have one reason for living right now, it would perhaps be… to defeat Shujin-sensei in battle and prove that I'm not just a punching bag." I meant that as deep as the depth of my soul. "Huh... Well, if that's your purpose, you better start working

••• ∅ ••• I never wanted it to be this way. I never wanted it to change. I enjoyed life the way it was before— a life surrounded by friends and family who love you. Heck, I got momentarily punched in the face by an old man or whatever, but it was still alright. But now, at the blink of an eye, well more like in a hand gesture, everything I knew, everything I lived for was gone. You better have a good explanation for doing this Sensei or whoever it is this "authority" seems to be. ••• ∅ ••• Shujin and Kai were welcomed to the world of Daemons. ••• ∅ ••• I admit. This world actually looks amazing. Everyone, everything's just simply stunning. The view, no words. But, that's not why I'm here. C'mon, you think I'm gonna throw off the main agenda just like that? What is this, the medieval times? See, I've got questions, Sensei, and you're the only one who can provide me with some answers. ••• ∅ ••• Shujin called for a ride. "Shujin! Long time no see. How's it going? How long

"The Core of Chaos? And who's that supposed to be?" Kai questioned Owari, oblivious to the unfamiliar name."He is a powerful Daemon who wreaked havoc among our kind and shook the balance between good and evil in the world we protect," he explained."He is a menace who only follows in the path of darkness. His ever growing power was too much for us Daemons to handle. Killing him wasn't an option either. So, we sealed him away," he continued."This is crazy talk," Kai interrupted. "How does this involve me? And why does he want me anyways? I'm not a Daemon or a Demigod and I certainly don't want some crazy old half assed blood thirsty Daemon all up in my neck so…""See, that's where you're wrong, Kai," Owari claimed. "I think your mind needs to come down to earth. The realm where Cosmos is being held captive is a place constructed by powerful Daemons where it is impossible for him to use his abilities to breakthrough 'cause he'd lose his mind doing so.""It's a space, time and spirit pr