Early in the morning all apprentices of floor two stood at attention at the entrance to their rooms, wearing full training uniforms. Even John Smith, the young American wasn't wearing his armor. The uniforms resembled karate-gi and included belts of various colors. The sun symbol of the order was placed on each uniform where the heart is. Everyone stood in complete silence. You could clearly hear them breathe. A young, tall teenager with a shaved head covered with red bandana opened the door to the staircase declaring "Master Lezner has arrived!"
"Os!" replied everyone simultaneously.
Out of the darkness marched into the hallway a massive, muscular, smoking black man. He passed his gaze along the two lines. "Let's get the ceremony over with," stated Lezner loudly, the cigar slightly moving in his mouth as he talked. The teenager turned to the students' direction and exclaimed "let us state our values, the five core values of the order!"
Everyone except Lezner and Metsuhai answered unanimously, speaking decisively "Humanity's survival and triumph over our enemies is above all." The apprentices continued less loudly, speaking now as if to themselves rather than to everyone, still more or less with the same rhythm:" for this I shall fight with courage against all odds, using all my power, skill, intelligence and will to complete the mission, even give my life for the cause if I must." A very strong statement, befitting an army. When the last of them finished speaking they continued in perfect unison again. "Human life is precious and it is the duty of us, proud warriors of the order to defend it. I will risk my life to protect my comrades, my peers, fellow members of the order and civilians." Metsuhai could only stand silently and listen, since he never learned these statements before. Everyone else however clearly memorized them by heart. Well they did say them every morning.
"Discipline is absolute. A commander's word is law. It is my sacred duty to obey orders even if they are difficult or uncomfortable. I shall do my best to understand and execute any command impeccably."
Metsuhai noticed one of his roommates, Nao, was usually the one who finished the personal part of the declarations last.
"Professionalism is critical. I will train and work hard to become a better warrior, actively seeking to improve my skills and their implementation on the battlefield."
"Responsibility is vital. I know my actions have consequences and are to be judged by my superiors. I must report all relevant information accurately. On the battlefield I am a symbol thus I am to act and dress appropriately to represent the order with honor."
"Good," said Lezner and roared "let's go!"
The students were standing in perfect lines and columns forming a square in the large training hall, facing the master. The wall behind him was covered with mirrors, so the warriors could easily see their reflections. The room was lit by yellow lamps. The floor was made of soft wood. The students were already sweating. They had just finished their warm up. No student was talking. "It seems we have a new guy, so I'm gonna repeat introduction," Lezner smoked between words, "some people think that inferno dimension is hell. They are wrong. This is hell. And I'm the devil. Every day of training will be harder than the one before. You will regret ever joining this army. And…"
Something clearly distracted Lezner and drew his attention away from his victims. Something no one else heard. Silence had descended on the training hall. Then they heard it. Heavy steps. Something big was clearly making its way towards the room. Each step was heavier than the previous one.
"Here I come" sounded a manly voice. Then something collided with the room's entrance wall. It seemed to miss the door. An incredibly fat guy made his way through the entrance. Fumbling his hearting head with his hand. The enormous overweight was wearing his thick leather armor and carrying a massive war hammer. "Kuma Hoiru, ready to report sir!" said the fat guy bravely. He saluted and his war hammer flew out of his hand crushing into a mirror, breaking it to bitts. Lezner looked at the fat guy with pale face. A wave of laughter echoed in the training hall. Some tried to suppress the laughter, yet with no success. Kuma looked from side to side with a bitter face.
"Shut up!" Lezner shouted with rage. Graveyard silence befell upon the class (no one wants to mess with Lezner, except Kuma- maybe). Lezner slowly walked towards Kuma. "Sorry sir…" Kuma started talking but Lezner didn't even let him finish. "Sorry doesn't cover it," he said and smashed his balls with a deadly knee strike. Kuma folded forward in pain, but Lezner wasn't done yet. He extinguished his cigar on Kumas exposed backside of the neck. Kuma was struggling not to cry. Metsuhai really felt sorry for this loser. "Next time I will not be so forgiving. This is martial arts lesson. Next time leave the hammer back in your room. Wear the fitting uniform, and o yeah, the mirror comes out of your paycheck. Now everybody choose a partner and let's get started."
All the trainees immediately organized into pairs. It was clearly not the first time and all of them had favorite partners. Everyone except three: Metsuhai, Kuma and a tall blonde girly-looking, blue eyed guy. Kuma looked at the blonde guy and Metsuhai, trying to make his pick when a Japanese teenager nearby whispered "this is Koi Murasaki," tilting his head towards the blonde handsome one, "He is the strongest in our group, he is very dangerous." Kuma made his way immediately to Koi. That left Metsuhai only with Lezner.
Lezner approached Metsuhai, whose body was cramped from stress. "Today we practice front fist," dictated Lezner, "good against medium strength opponents. You gonna have a sparring match with your hands alone and you are allowed nothing but the front fist. Careful not to kill your sparring partner." Lezner took a few steps forward. Metsuhai standing in his shadow. Metsuhai put his fists up trying to copy one of the students nearby. Lezner was just looking with his Stalin-like gaze right into Metsuhais eyes. "Waiting for something? On the battlefield the enemy will not wait," Lezner's lit cigar moving in his mouth as he spoke. Metsuhai sent his fist forward towards Lezner's face. Lezner deflected a blow, then dodged the next. Lezner put his arms down, allowing Metsuhai to hit. Since Metsuhai didn't close his fists right, his palm broke formation as it slides to the side of Lezners body. The fourth time Metsuhai attacked Lezner blocked with his elbow. Lezner's bones were hard as steel. Metsuhai felt as if his fist was shattering. Lezner hit Metsuhai with his fingers. The fingers sank deep into Metsuhais flesh. It was extremely painful. Metsuhai stumbled back paralyzed with pain. Looking back on this moment later, this blow might have killed him. This attack was not fitting for Metsuhais current level. "Is that really all you can do?" Lezner was clearly disappointed.
Takeo who was supposed to be busy with his own training partner was observing Metsuhai as well. A displeased look covered his face. On the other hand, his training partner, Nao- the snoring guy, couldn't care less about Metsuhais performance. He was a huge guy, comparable to Lezner in size. Hard to believe he was Japanese. However, size was the only similarity between the two. Nao Shiranui had short red square hair and calm smiling manly personality. "Hey man," Nao called out to Takeo, "We are supposed to be hitting each other." Takeo reluctantly turned to face his training partner, still thinking about Metsuhai. He is bound to get eaten by demons. The two began sending fists, most of which landed on the air. To Metsuhai this would look like expert fighting if he was looking, but he wasn't. Lezner on the other hand had a different opinion. "Kamaru! Look at his face." He barked, "He is not down there. Shiranui! Are you asleep?" Not far from this pair, Masaru, the melancholic longhaired guy with sharp tiny mustache was moving gracefully. Easily deflecting any incoming blow from his American opponent John Smith, yet he did not rush to counter attack. Giving John a lot of breathing space.
"Don't play around. Challenge him. You can't possibly hope to fight like that on the battlefield!" (Lezner)
"Yes sir!" declared Masaru. However, as soon as Lezner turned away Masaru got back to doing the exact same thing.
If Metsuhai was struggling, Kuma had even harder time. Kuma walked around in circles with his heavy steps. His fists, clutched and lifted up to protect his face. By his gaze it was obvious he means business. For now, Koi was standing in battle stance and not moving. One of the students commented, "He is probably dumb to take on Murasaki. He is an intimidating opponent." Kuma turned his gaze to the side "what?"
This was all the opening Koi needed. A devastating, bone-breaking fist smashed into Kumas face. Kuma flew back, knocked down, crushing another unfortunate student. He didn't even understand where he is. "Get off me!" nervously called out the angry victim. Kuma was struggling to get back to his feet. Suddenly it was very easy. Lezner pulled him to his feet from the hair. "You are irreparable. You are slowing down the entire class. Go train with someone of your own level." Lezner pointed at Metsuhai. "Murasaki. You are training with me." For a second a worried look spread across Koi's face, but he soon regained his confident self.
Embarrassed, humiliated and defeated, Kuma dragged his feet towards Metsuhai. He only raised his head slightly to examine his new partner with sad eyes. "Go on, laugh like the others," he said with a trembling voice."
"I am not gonna laugh at you." Kuma looked at Metsuhai with confused eyes. "But I am gonna hit you hard. Let's train."
Kuma gaze was shining like a rainbow after the storm as he raised his fists.
Kuma did not wait. He threw a fist right at Metsuhai. He stopped a few centimeters from Metsuhais face. "Why don't you dodge?" He asked.
"How?"
"You need to move back or to the side." on the side of the hall Lezner was slowly cornering Koi.
"Now you try to hit me," suggested Kuma. Metsuhai released his fist, aiming right at kumas face. The blow was easily deflected aside by Kumas palm. "You need to close your fist strong and not to lock your hand on the joint." Kuma explained to Metsuhai exactly how to close his fists right, demonstrating. Metsuhai looked with a wondering gaze at his fisted hand.
"Thank you senpai," he said without much thinking. "You said what?" Kuma responded with astonishment." "I thanked you, what's wrong with that?"
"Let's just keep working," Kuma answered, struggling not to cry.
Since Kuma entered the order he had nothing but trouble and disrespect. He had no friends. Everyone looked down on him, and his instructors threw him from one class to another. This is how he got here in first place. Sure, Metsuhai never before fistfighted in his life. So Kuma was actually better trained in every way, but so far Metsuhai was the only one treating Kuma as a warrior and not like a clown.
The lesson was coming to an end as Metsuhai and Kuma were exchanging punches. Kuma performed much better but Metsuhai felt with his subconsciousness that Kuma was still holding back. A gong-like ringing announced the official end of the lesson. Koi was completely worn out. His blonde hair in a mess. "Fifteen minute break. See you at the jim."
Metsuhai, who now wore sports outfit, lifted weights nonstop. Sweating. A drop of sweat fell from his face down to the floor. Everyone around him were busy as well. Lifting weights of various sizes. Others were doing pushups, crunches, working with bars and running on treadmills. Kuma was laying on a training bed, trying desperately to lift from himself the biggest and heaviest weight in the room (no success). Lezner was as usual walking around and barking orders. "More! I want more!"
Metsuhai considered himself to be in shape, but here he was far behind. Even the thin Masaru lifted weights far beyond Metsuhai's ability.
Next lesson was the swimming session. Everyone stood at the edge of Olympic size swimming pool. They were wearing swim-suits. Only now Metsuhai realized how much Kuma was incredibly fat.
"You may think you are here for fun, but…" (Lezner)
Kuma was shouting and interrupted the lecture once more. He seemed to have lost his balance on the wet floor and was falling to the pool.
"Will you shut up!" Lezner roared. "Yes sir" Kuma saluted as he falls to the pool with a big splash. "This guy is provoking my patience," stated the angry trainer, "Now I want 20 laps and make it fast!"
At least after the exhausting swimming lesson Metsuhai got a bit of rest. The students sat in a dimly lit auditorium, listening to a short grey haired Japanese elder lecturing in his never changing tone. "…That's how three thousand, two hundred and twenty four years ago the noble Arisu family was established…"
Metsuhai who was so tired he almost fell asleep instantly forced himself to focus on the lecturer's words. But he had hard time concentrating, with his suffering muscles and tired body.
Kuma was vigorously writing in his notebook every word, sitting near him. Before Metsuhai figured out why the Arisu family, which was called noble, was mentioned, a heavy large hand descended upon his shoulder. A suffocating smell of smoke revealed Lezner's identity before he even said a word. "Fugughuu, you are coming with me."
"Yes sir," Metsuhai answered without revealing how nervous he is. Knowing Lezner he will take me to an isolated location and murder me because I'm the weakest link who is no good in training and only hold the group back.
Metsuhai followed Lezner without saying a word. They went through streets that Metsuhai haven't been to before. These streets were unusually quiet. Only a group of very small children, playing with paper swords and the chirping of birds were heard anywhere around. Lezner stopped in his place and put his hand on the hilt of the sword on his belt. Was the sword there all the time? I'm sure I didn't see it before. A stranger wearing yellow robe appeared. He carried on his shoulder a massive blade, so wide that it can barely fit into a closet.
"Oh, it's you Nazirov. Stealthy as ever," remarked Lezner, removing his hand from the disappearing sword.
"I haven't seen you around here for a while. What's the occasion sensei?"
"I'm taking this boy to the armory. Unfortunately no time to drink together."
"Why through here? Going through the library district is faster."
"I'm giving him the honor of visiting the Forbidden Hall."
Nazirov nodded for goodbye and Lezner kept walking. Soon they arrived to a gold- coated gate. Two policemen were standing and guarding the gate. The doors opened on their own, letting them pass. The cops saluted to Lezner as they entered the long steel corridor. Carved on the two walls at the sides were names and dates, more than Metsuhai could count. Every inscription was tiny and they were dense. Throughout the corridor were millions of them. The corridor was lit by faint neon lamps. Lezner and Metsuhai walked slowly on the steel floor. Metsuhai examined several of the writings, surprised by the old dates. Dating as far as 1500 b.c. From time to time Metsuhai saw detailed paintings of men. Metsuhai broke the silence. "Who are these people?"
"These are heroes from days past. Fallen during battle. The Arisu family ordered for them to be remembered forever. The once painted by masters were especially heroic. Some of them the best of their generation. Their bravery will not be forgotten, and we will remember and never forget the price we paid." Metsuhai and Lezner reached a staircase leading down.
"We ran out of room so we are building a new floor," explained Lezner, "Also deep underground are the graves themselves. The corpses that we managed to retrieve, at least." Lezner led Metsuhai away from the staircase continuing straight forward. "Now do you understand?! I am cruel during training so that you have a chance to survive. I lost numerous people I knew and respected." Metsuhai didn't know what to say, so they just kept walking in silence. Metsuhai could already see the daylight of the outside when his gaze met a torn picture. The tear went straight across the painting and through its middle. "A case of vandalism?" wondered Metsuhai aloud. "No... He was a traitor"
"What did he do?"
"He did a ritual dual. Do you know what that is?"
"No, I have no idea," answered Metsuhai a bit too quickly.
"Sure, how could you… But you will know in due time."
"Why wasn't his painting permanently removed?"
"Because the Seto family intervened. You should be familiar with them (Metsuhai wasn't). They are the second most powerful noble family in the order. They became very stubborn until the matter escalated to be a matter of personal honor. The order almost broke in half. There was a risk of inner war too. Only the demon threat prevented that war. Eventually after long arguments and debates where no one would back down we decided on a compromise. There you have it." That concluded the tour in the forbidden hall, where you can visit only on holidays and funerals. Finally Lezner led Metsuhai to the armory. The great grey uninviting building had no windows at all and was sealed by a heavy descending steel gate. When the two stepped close enough the gate rose up slowly, revealing sharp blades at its bottom. The gate kept rising until it completely disappeared into the upper wall. Metsuhai and Lezner entered the jail like building. The inside of the armory was as grey as the outside, and filled with locked safes. At the end of the entrance hall was a table covered with white cloth. On it laid a large pile of weapons. So big the table could hardly take it. There was every imaginable weapon there. Weapons from all sizes and shapes. Swords, spears, maces, battle axes, clubs, bows, daggers, guns and more exotic stuff. Metsuhai was so occupied with the weapons he missed the short guy standing near the table right until he spoke. "Lezner! Let me guess, another one of your apprentices died."
"Don't remind me," Lezner said while exhaling the chocking smoke.
"Well, let's have a look at you," continued the short man as if Lezner didn't say anything, rushing to Metsuhai. He grabbed his hand, measured his height (jumped to do so) and carefully examined his body. Metsuhai felt somewhat uncomfortable with the extensive measurement.
"Why am I here?" he asked mainly Lezner, but it was the armory master who answered "You are obviously here to select your first weapon. Every aspiring warrior of the order passes through here. You've probably heard of the strongest legendary weapons, wielded by the most powerful warriors. Well, you won't find them here now…" He spoke very fast but was easy to understand. "…Since they are too priceless to give a beginner. But everyone starts from something. Be aware, you have but one chance to select a weapon for quite a long time, that's until your weapon breaks or you become an officer. Of course you can buy weapons at the many stores of the order, but that costs, costs a lot."
Metsuhai nodded, as his gaze goes along the loaded table. "You can pick a traditional weapon, that's what most warriors do," the armorer kept talking "or you can choose an exotic weapon: a whip, a fishing rod, a hand- attached blade, nunchakas maybe. Those weapons are hard to attack with, but they are also hard to defend against. The problem is, there are hardly any available trainers to teach you how to use these. Everyone are busy fighting, and hardly really thinking of the future of our order." Lezner exhaled a huge smoke cloud in Metsuhais direction. "Get to business, the next training session is approaching." The armorer wasn't rushing.
"Oh, I haven't introduced myself. Sushi Kyoto, war veteran."
"Metsuhai Fugughuu," answered Metsuhai as he sent his hand to the table.
"Oh, Fugughuu. Haven't heard this one for a while." Metsuhai stopped in place, shocked.
"Your father was a good fighter," continued Sushi "one of the best. He was good blacksmith too. Unfortunate how things turned out. Well I've been on the job for a long time so I do get to see those things."
"We are getting late!" called out Lezner but with no effect. "Tell me about my father," demanded Metsuhai. "Gin Fugughuu, fourth generation in the order. He got as far as Lieutenant. This guy was wouldn't lose. If the order had more champions like him we wouldn't be losing. He even forged his own sword. One day he was sent to fight Magnus, a powerful sorcerer. Probably the strongest one ever lived. You know how we treat sorcerers. Magnus won. As punishment he sealed Gin's power away, putting on him a seal the order did not know how to break. After returning to the order, Gin was humiliated and demoted. Raging with fury he quit the order. He fled and took his own life before we had the chance to erase his memory. I mean, his power was already sealed away. We did not need to drain it. But I'm sure you knew most of this." Metsuhai was completely confused. The conversation raised more questions than it answered. How could his father be dead if he is alive? Next time dad and I meat he'll have to explain everything.
"Will you finally pick your weapon?! I'm getting old here," raged Lezner. Metsuhai lifted a spiky mace on a chain, not really intending to wield it. Rather he was buying time, to avoid provoking Lezner further. "Excellent choice," called out Sushi "this weapon is strong, especially hard to block if you don't have a shield." Metsuhai put the mace back on the table, shaking his head. "No matter, take your time," said Sushi as if to anger Lezner on purpose, "this is too important a decision to make hastily." Metsuhais attention was drawn to a massive two handed, double edged war axe. He picked it up for just a moment, "too heavy, not practical," he explained as he puts it back in place. "Indeed, you are not experienced enough for this," stated Sushi "you need mountains of muscle to wield this." Metsuhai looked at the pile of weapons again. How is he supposed to make such an important choice? Metsuhai remembered Chizues graceful fighting style and more importantly his short training session with Marko. His attention turned to the swords. Metsuhai pulled out a one and a half handed long sword. The hilt felt convenient and the sword looked like it belonged to a hero. "Excellent! Good range, well balanced weapon, which can be used in multiple ways, classical."
"I think this is it," admitted Metsuhai, swinging the sword in the air using both hands.
"Careful with this. It's not a toy," barked Lezner "Sushi, go on."
Sushi helped Metsuhai selecting his defensive gear as well. Metsuhai left the armory wearing chainmail armor and carrying a round steel shield. The shield was quite heavy but Metsuhai had confidence in its necessity in battle. Chainmail armor was a good addition as well, giving excellent protection from various attacks. It was a better defense than the flexible leather armors, yet not as heavy and restricting as plate armor.
The weapons training was actually taking place outside. The apprentices were wielding various weapons against each other. Takeo and John were using medium swords, fencing, with John having the upper hand, no doubt. Nao wielded two double-edged heavy axes but struggled against Koi who used a hundred-fold Katana. Masaru was defeating two sword wielding opponents at once, disarming one of them. His saber whistling through the air. Everyone wore armor: Nao and John- a heavy plate armor. Takeo was sort of an exception, wearing tight black leather clothes that fit more for a thug than on a demon hunter. But the one who really stood out was Masaru. He wasn't wearing armor at all. He was wearing a European blue shirt clearly of noble origin, with white crowns sewed into it. A blue hat with a white feather rested on his head. Classy leather boots covered his feet. He moved gracefully. Noises of clashing steel were everywhere.
Lezner and Metsuhai were late, Metsuhai having a broad smile. Kuma was standing alone, far from the rest of the group, his hammers head touching the ground. No one wanted to train with him. Metsuhai rushed to him while Lezner was starting to review the action. Overexcited, Metsuhai said "prepare to face my new weapon!" Kumas mood changed immediately from one extreme to the other. "Now listen, this is no fist fight. We just practice technique, you don't kill me, I don't kill you. We both go home slightly more skilled than before. Though for you it's better to have a partner with a blade rather than a war hammer." Kuma looked with hesitation into Metsuhais eyes. "I don't care, let's get to work" declared Metsuhai.
Metsuhai sent his blade with an accurate, rapid movement just like Marko taught him but Kuma was ready. His hammer blocked the blade. Metsuhai kept attacking fiercely. Kuma dodged, deflected, or blocked every time. For his size he was very fast. Kuma counterattacked and Metsuhai put the shield on the way. The hammer smashed into the shield, sending Metsuhai off his feet. Metsuhai felt sharp pain flowing through his arm. Kuma helped Metsuhai up. "You don't block with a shield a war hammer. The shockwave will go right to the bones and the fight is over. Though you can deflect or dodge. Warhammer is in theory a very dangerous weapon."
Metsuhai nodded and the two continued to practice. Kuma found out to be much more serious opponent than anyone expected. There was clearly a power gap. "There is one thing I don't get," Metsuhai said as he dodges that deadly hammer, "how is it that cold weapons affect those beasts so efficiently? Shouldn't we try running them over with cars or something?"
"I understand what you are asking," replied Kuma "cold weapons, because of the way they are made, draw great power into them. Battle energy which all humans possess to some extent. Hot weapons on the other hand (Metsuhai dodged the hammer again) affect only E and D levels. For higher level, Bullets go around them causing no damage. The simplest spell can render technology useless permanently (Kuma dodges), unless you charge every bullet and bomb with energy, and even that's no good against armored opponent. Charging bullets with energy is a rare art. Few are capable of enchanting the bullet well enough for it to be useful. The problems don't end here. The enchanter must keep the bullets close and maintain his concentration constantly so the energy wouldn't fade away. Few choose this path." Tired Metsuhai overswang and Kuma easily avoided the strike. "What's E and D levels? How many levels are there?"
"Not all demons are of the same strength..."
"Tell me about it," mumbled Metsuhai.
"…So we classify them into power levels… The infant levels, you know the tiny ones are Es. Than there the grown-ups who are far more powerful. They are D. Those are common enemy soldiers. There are loads of them. Now it gets worse. There are C levels. Exceptionally dangerous masters of combat. They are different from one another. There is lots of difference between the inner strength of Ds and Cs within. Cs also begin to possess human like intelligence. That's not the end of the story. There is a B and even greater A levels as well. Massive monsters that you meet in your worst nightmares." Kuma sneaked a burger into his mouth in middle of battle, starting to chew. "What about baron Phaulin?" asked Metsuhai. Kuma choked on his burger and stumbled back with frightened expression. After regaining his breath he spoke "baron Phaulin is a demon lord. He is on a level of his own, far beyond the A class. No one ever defeated a demon lord. You see him, you run!" Kumas hammer stopped inches away from Metsuhais shoulder. "Killed you!" announced Kuma.
The most exotic lesson was basic energy training. Most lesson they were practicing breathing exercises or sitting in meditation positions. Lezner was guiding them, but in Metsuhais opinion his orders only made this more difficult. Who can maintain the flow when Lezner shouts on them to be more relaxed. Either way, Metsuhai was successful and felt the exhilarating feeling of the power circulating through him.
"Combat practice time!" declared Lezner near the end of the lesson.
Each trainee stood in front of the human like dummy assigned to him, attempting to attack it with combat energy.
Many couldn't do much damage to their target, releasing only small sparks or tiny beams, fading away before ever reaching the target. Kuma was among those. Not able to release energy whatsoever. Metsuhai was confident in his ability, after all he did it before. And indeed, his energy beam exploded violently on the dummy. I have to be careful not to use anything but basic combat energy. But soon Metsuhais beams turned small and harmless. The reason was obvious. Metsuhais body reached his limit. He was completely exhausted. This level of training was new to him. It's a miracle he didn't feint.
At evening, Metsuhai dragged his exhausted body to the bedroom in the barracks. Every muscle in his body was screaming with pain. He collapsed to his folding bed without even taking a shower. I'll do it in the morning, he thought and only set his alarm clock before his eyes closed on their own.
….
The next few days were challenging although repetitive. The basic training was very similar, containing martial arts, body building and of course cold weapon disciplines. It was tiring, hard but rewarding. Metsuhai knew he needs it to survive. And he was improving. Becoming stronger, faster, more techniqle and better in every possible way. Besides the training he endured, were also the lectures. The class learned from several elders, learning many topics. The lectures included different aspects of history and were enlightening. They thoroughly described some of the turning points in the war history of the order (without any mention of ritual duels), including complicated political rivalries and different regimes. Some lectures were particularly important like the one about common demon races and their battle techniques. Metsuhai ate three times a day in the barracks dining room. The food was diverse and healthy but not particularly tasty. It was served only at the designated hours, leaving Metsuhai somewhat hungry in the late evenings. He did begin taking some food away from the dining hall although it was controversial, possibly against the regulations. Metsuhai always practiced with Kuma. Kuma was still ahead and was acting as an instructor. But from time to time he had his slips. Once during balance exercises he stumbled back, stepping on Lezners foot with all his weight, which in turn caused Lezner to slap him in the face. Some other time, he got distracted by a cleaning maid and he hit himself with his own hammer. Metsuhais roommates were training hard as well, but Metsuhai was catching up fast. He wasn't sure if it was because of his talent or hard work. Metsuhai didn't neglect his magic either. Every evening except for the first, he went to a nearby training field, which was always empty at these hours. Metsuhai trained on his faith magic, shooting beams on the grass-covered ground until he was spent, creating tiny craters. He also trained his sorcery by lifting small rocks. It wasn't as strong as with the amulet, but he did improve with time. He practiced until the small rock wouldn't go up no more. He knew there were risks involved in training sorcery. If people found out, they might hate him. And there were the for-now mild side effects. He wanted more, wanted to use sorcery all day long and had hard time thinking of anything else at times. Although, this frightened him less than the occasional pain in the spider mark. It would seem like Metsuhai found his place in this new reality, but on the morning of the fourth training day he realized it was time to deal with his lack of income.
On the morning of his second day of training, he received a text from 'The Holy Bank'- the central bank belonging to the order. It stated simply that Metsuhai was going to receive his first paycheck only in the beginning of the next month, and it was 3500 dollars. Not an insignificant sum especially for a Japanese. But everything also cost in dollars here as well. More importantly, Metsuhai couldn't wait to the next month. His bottle of medicine was half empty. What made Metsuhai feel worse about all this was his parents' virtual disappearance. Neither his father nor mother answered any of his calls, and as an apprentice he couldn't just leave the fort city in the middle of the day.
For these reasons, at the evening of his fourth day Metsuhai visited the stores on the potion district. He looked for the ingredients needed to make another dose of medicine. He was careful to compare prices in several stores before making any purchase. Luckily, all basic ingredients were cheap, so cheap he managed to buy them with the little he had in his wallet. Everything but the amethyst powder. It was the third store he entered, desperately looking for the powder.
As Metsuhai opened the door, a pleasant ringing sound of Japanese steel sticks rang softly. The inside of the store was overfilled with merchandise thus dense. There was a powerful smell of perfume in the air. It could have been worse. An old energetic seller immediately approached Metsuhai. "You came to the right place. The badest and most powerful sorcery. We have everything you need. Dog shit is on discount. It has so many uses and I, Sakiu, will deliver." Metsuhai got straight to the point. "I need blue amethyst powder." Sakiu was quiet for a moment. Metsuhai clearly took him by surprise. He raised his voice "Do you think I'm a millioner? You will never find amethyst powder. Sure, three hundred years ago, maybe. I was an apprentice back then, but we are losing the little grip we still have in this city and in this order. And amethyst powder can be found here no more." Metsuhai clenched his fists strongly. Sakiu saw how displeased his customer is, so he suggested "you could bring a blue amethyst to me. I'll grind it for you in no time. The hard part is getting one. They are extremely rare and precious."
"I'll be back," promised Metsuhai to Sakiu and went to the jeweler. He ran all the way, not able to afford even a bus ride.
"Four thousand!" exclaimed Metsuhai in front of the cynical trader. "The smallest ones cost 4000, 3900 with a discount. Yet we have a bigger exhibit costing 15000. Blue amethysts are not free," the trader coldly explained. Even the smallest damn stone costs more than my monthly salary. I'm screwed. Metsuhai left the jeweler store, defeated. I need money, and I need it now. To make matters worse the spider mark started hurting again. Metsuhai was filled with anger. The spider mark pulsated as if excited. His hands started shaking and were covered with red aura. Then flames appeared on his palms. Metsuhai forced himself to calm down, although he had the feeling he has remnants of the evil inside him. Going berserk here will only get me into trouble. There's got to be a way out of it.
Metsuhai took out his phone and looked at the screen with a desperate expression on his face. All his friends from the past were far and enjoyed a simple and safe life. It would be unbelievably hard to try explaining anything to them. They probably wonder why I didn't attend school for a whole week. They might come to my home and achieve nothing. From their point of view I'm gone. But why in hell can't I contact my mother?! His two newest contacts came to mind. Chizue and Marko would understand his troubles perfectly but he couldn't ask them for a loan. Marko was stationed in Akihabara and was on a mission. He could be busy for weeks. Chizue on the other hand was not far, and clearly had the money. However Metsuhai refused to ask her help. He wanted to show his best to her, not to be in debt. The answer came to him in a moment of clarity. Metsuhai approached the first guy he had seen. A teenager wearing classic mages hat (a long pointy one) and a blue robe with yellow stars. He had long brown hair and his eyes seemed as if any moment now he is going to cry. The guy walked while looking down at the brick road. "Can you tell me…" began Metsuhai only to be interrupted "will you leave me alone!" (Metsuhai started to get angry) "All I wanted is…" the guy looked at Metsuhai and his gaze immediately fell on that long sword, "…you to show me where the bank is."
"Go to the end of the market square and turn right". Suddenly Metsuhai recognized the guy.
"I know you."
"Now that's unusual."
"I saw you at the potions guild!"
"Yes yes, I am Asas Tamaguchi, I work at the potions guild. I always worked at the potions guild. You can find me there. Now will you please leave me alone."
Metsuhai quickly made his way to the nearest Holy Bank branch. The bank building view from the outside resembled something in the middle between a castle and a massive mosque. The massive round building colored in blending curved stripes of orange, yellow and blue. The building was like screaming 'I am here to stay'. It was also clear this magnificent palace was built very long ago. From the inside however it had a very modern look. Concrete walls, square floor, desks and the like. Like a huge government office. In the entrance sat an official, wearing suit with tie and glasses. He sat in front of a computer, typing non- stop. On his desk laid a mountains of documents. The bank seemed mostly empty at the moment. Aside from an old lady mopping the floor and several security Metsuhai saw no one. "Welcome to the Holy Bank, the best place to keep your money," said the official, "You are?"
"Metsuhai Fugughuu." The worker quickly typed something and answered:" Oh, you are newly recruited. Please proceed to floor 3, room 325."
Metsuhai thanked the official and proceeded to the elevator. Soon enough he found his way to the right room. There he met Itsuki Mitsubishi. A man in his forties, wearing a perfectly tailored suit and a piercing gaze. "Come in, Mr. Fugughuu. I'm Mitsubishi, I represent your interests here. How is your training progressing?"
"I'm doing fine. You seem to know a lot about me."
"Comes with the job. Your bank account is already open, you will receive your salary on the 14th… Now then, what can I do for you?"
"I need a loan."
"What for?"
"That's personal."
"You do get food, bedchamber and training for free. How much do you need?"
"I need four- thousand."
For a second the bank official sat silently. "Nooo, no no no. I can't do that. You were just recruited. You might die in battle. You might get crippled. You might drop out because you can't take the training or the discipline, or both. For heaven's sake, you can just take the money and run away… You have everything you need. Let's give it some more time. See how you fit in. Then talk to me again."
As frustrated Metsuhai was leaving the room, Mitsubishi added "and thank you for visiting the Holy Bank. The best place to put your money."
Metsuhai returned to the barracks angry and defeated. He felt like his life is collapsing on him. His spider mark was a bit itching. Red energy gathered around his palms again. As he calmed himself and his hands, he heard strange noises from around the corner. Metsuhai picked beyond the half open door, his hand on the hilt of his sword. The noise and light were coming from the maintenance room, a room supposed to be empty except for brooms, buckets and mops. There was something big in there.
Metsuhai stepped nervous into the room and discovered… Kuma. And he was having the time of his life. Chewing, surrounded by cakes, cookies, candy, ice- cream, and he was eating non- stop.
"I can explain!" called out Kuma.
"No need," reassured Metsuhai.
"Oh it's you Metsu."
"What are you doing here?"
"You have to understand, all those rough trainings, all those laughing students, all the times Lezner was abusing me. It puts strain on me. And when I'm strained I eat… A lot."
So this is how he is still so fat, after so much training.
"You must not tell the officers," asked Kuma "I'll be in deep trouble. Even my patron up in the ranks might not save me from this."
"My lips are sealed," promised Metsuhai.
"You want some? There is for you too."
To hell with this. At least I'll have a good last meal.
"Yea sure. Why not"
For some time the two were just sitting and chewing. Then suddenly Kuma got up, raising his open palm.
"Fast summon!" he declared, smashing at the floor with his hand.
Metsuhai looked confused. Out of nowhere more food appeared. Mountains of it.
"So this is how the food got here in the first place," said Metsuhai.
As the feast continues, Metsuhais belly was already full and swelling, while Kuma was still eating at an astonishing rate. Man, Kuma has his flaws, but no one can beat him in eating.
"You don't look happy," said Kuma while stuffing his face with cake "for me, one or two ice- creams can make the difference."
"You got that right."
"Fast su…"
"That's not what I meant. I have terrible financial problems. I'm cornered."
Kuma, with full mouth:" what happened? Gambling debts maybe."
"Worse," answered Metsuhai showing the spider mark, "It's a deadly poison, as we speak it begins to spread. I already feel the pain. There is no cure. I can only slow it down. But I need blue amethysts."
"It is known that gemstones have healing properties. About the spider, how did you get it?"
"You wouldn't believe me even if I told you."
"How much do you need?" Metsuhai blinked with both his eyes.
"Four thousand."
"Sure pal, why not" said Kuma as if there's nothing to it. Metsuhai was stunned. He did not believe his ears. "Thank you."
Metsuhai vowed in his heart to never forget Kuma's kindness.
As Metsuhai turned to leave the room Kuma added, "pay me back when you can."