A New Beginning

[Om3ga]

A cultural jewel, this is what these people must imagine when they see this city. This clearly must be the heart and pride of this country. These sculptures are certainly of high quality. It reminds me of home. Though it is obvious that people here feel I don't belong. I stand out like a sore thumb. Not only do I not have a similar appearance but I am quite a bit larger then most here. I didn't have to go through this at home because I was always with my father and I was a person of influence back home.

A grand horizon like one that has never been seen before is placed in awe of a city so grand that Buddha himself must acknowledge its superiority. Don't you think?

Yes, it is quite the sight.

Sooo child, its clear your not from around here. What brings you to our capitol. The heart and soul of our people?

"Laughs" What gave me away my appearance or perhaps my body language that clearly screams ignorant?

"Laughs" Actually it was the odd writing on your coat and the symbols on your sword that caught my attention. You seem to keep a close grip on that sword.

Yes, its very important to me. Its a family heirloom.

Ahh, its quite beautiful and well taken care. So to go back to my original question. What brings you to Luo Yang?

Well like you acutely deduced I'm not from here so I came her looking to educate myself. What better place to learn the truth of someone's soul then there heart. Its the place where we keep all that is dear to us.

"Smiles"Ah, well my child I know much of the city and its people. Perhaps I could share some of my knowledge with you. Also perhaps you could accompany me on a few of errands within the city.

It would be my pleasure. Lead on sir.

[Om3ga]

All right my friend, so where are we headed first?
There is something different about this man. This air about him, and his demeanor. He is definately not your typical old man. He has sense of confidence of himself. He seems very sure of himself and moves with sense of grace. Perhaps I'm reading into this too much, or perhaps I'm not reading being careful enough. I guess we'll soon find out.

First we are heading for the marketplace my boy. I need to get some herbs and spices. I have get somewhat of special treatment in the marketplace and this city has the best herbs and spices around.

Ah, a man of culinary arts I see. Do you have any specilities or recipes you could teach me. Its always good to expand your herizons. Especially when it comes to a fine meal.

"Laughs" Well my child I mostly use these particular ingredients in salves and medicines but I do make a mean home made stew. I'll let you try some once we finish up here.

I look forward to it!

So here we are, the marketplace. This part of the city is constantly busy. All of the shops are centralized in this area so if you needs supplies for anything this is where you go.

The market place, as you enter this part of the city its almost sufficating. There is so much life and activity. There is a sense of a almost savage nature. Everyone is looking to get some form of edge or advantage. Both shop keepers and customers are doing everything in their power to improve their position, survival of the fittest. One wrong move and your shop will be undercut by a new competitor looking to take your postition in this economic amazon, where you can lose your lively hood in the blink of an eye.

Suddenly the men are overcome by quick and familar lose of weight. This feeling is all too familar for anyone who has been around the block once or twice. This feeling can mean only one thing. A pickpocket.. Both men already new what had transpired without having to even contenplate their situation. A young thief had gone straight for their wallet. Unfornately this thief had picked the wrong marks. As soon he grabbed their pouches and looked to escape in the crowd he found himself airborne heading straight for the ground. With a swift leg sweep Korin had removed the would be thiefs feet from under him, leaving him with a greater sense of those then any pickpocket could leave their victums with. He had lost all sense of control. Right before the young rogue was about to make impact with his new destination, the ground the old shifted his 90 degrees to the right and caught the young boy before he met a painful landing on the earth below.

Oh I see you came to give us our money back didn't you young man. Takes the two money pouches filled with gold.[/i]

Let me go! Put me down!

As you wish. (Drops the young boy with complete abandonment)
Owwwwwww!

"Laughs" Ouch! That looked like it hurt. You know if you were low on funds you could've just asked. The proffesion you've chosen doesn't leave its employees with a very long life span. Not to mention it doesn't offer very many benefits. Your just lucky that we were the ones that caught you and not someone less compassionate.

Ask? Yeah right! Like that would've worked!
Try it.

Fine, may I please have some money to get something to eat.
Sure. (Hands the boy a undiclosed amount of money)

The boy's eyes glisten with the joy he has not known for an entire lifetime.Really?! Really!.. I ... I... Wow, WOW! Thank You, Thank You! I won't forget you mister!

The old man smiles and thinks to himself.

[shinsayaken]

Rasa wandered around the market browsing the stalls. Hungry, he picked up an apple and kept walking. He bit into it and realized he had forgotten to pay. at a glance from his companion he sighed. "Old habits die hard." He returned to the stall and deposited some money on the counter. You would never have done that before, you know. "Yeah, I know." He studied the woman next to him. Silent as always. She really doesn't like you. "Gah, I'm so bored! Doesn't this town have anything exciting to do?" This made Ly'rea stop in her tracks. "What? You know you're bored too! Come on, let's find something exciting." He heard a child shouting in glee. Shifting his gaze he say an old man and... "I've never seen anyone that looked like that before. Maybe this won't be such a waste of time after all if he can entertain me. Ly'rea, think you could tail our new friends and see what they're up to?" Rasa faded into the crowd as Ly'rea approached the men. Making sure his weapon was loose and ready he watched the three of them like hawks.

[Om3ga]

Hmm.. you seem to be quite a bit more compassionate then most in this day and age my young friend! "Smirks and Laughs Joylessly"

Well I have seen my fair share of misery and have no desire to add to anyone else's.

Alright well let us be on our way. I have all the supplies I will need for the day and I believe you wanted to try my homemade stew.

All right lead the way.
Hmmm.. that same sensation as before.. I feel like I'm being watched. But wait.. Nooo... this is different. There is almost a intense bloodlust behind this. Hmmm, perhaps I'm just being paranoid. Well I guess we'll come to that bridge when we get there.

A school?! A martial arts school!? Your a teacher!? Well I guess I'm not that surprised. How many students are here?

Uhhh.. I say about a couple hundred.

A grand school with the a small army of martial artists. All of them have vowed to dedicate their lives to a lifelong goal. The sounds of hundreds of students moving in unison echoed throughout the walls of the building. This was a place of discipline and higher learning. A place to be both appreciated and respected.

Come my boy and I'll show you around.

Wait... I know you feel it. We are being followed. Someone is here and I don't get the feeling they have good intentions.

[shinsayaken]

Ly'rea quietly followed the two men indicated,enjoying the sights of the capital. "It's pretty here." As they approached a school, the darker man stopped the older one. They seem nervous. This wasn't a good idea. What should I do? She began to pace in a short circle. I have to be strong. Father taught me to be strong. She approached the two men. "Um, excuse me. I'd like to...um...join your school?" Her voice shook so much she was afraid they'd kill her on the spot. "I...want to learn how to fight. My name is Ly'rea." I hope they don't say I'm too young. As scared as she was of these two men, she realized that she was actually enjoying this.

[Om3ga]

Oh my such a sweet child? We seem to be awfully popular today aren't we my friend.

It would seem so. She says she wants to learn how to fight. This seems so sudden. While its clear her desire is genuine but will she be able to follow through and put in the time. For that matter what does your family think of this decision? From what I can tell this school only has male students. Well don't you think sir? Was this what I felt earlier? No, it couldn't be, this girl isn't causing that feeling of pressure and excitement. She seems more nervous than anything. Whats causing this sensation?


Well I have always been sucker for children but as you said before my school has only male students and bringing a young girl in the school would disrespectful to them. They have vowed to deny themselves all earthly pleasures and focus solely on their training. Hmmm.. but perhaps their is a another solution. Young Man! You can teach her!


ME!? What makes you think I can teach her?

Well its clear you are seasoned warrior and martial artist. Anyone trained in martial arts can tell that from looking at you, not to mention your little stunt in the market earlier today made it very clear.

"Sigh" Well ... first let me learn a little about my potential student.
You said your name was Ly'rea, how old are you and what does your family think about this. I'm new to this city so its not like I have a school to teach you in or a permanent residence.

[shinsayaken]

Rasa watched Ly'rea work her magic. He nearly laughed out loud. This was getting more interesting every minute. Sitting down on a nearby chair he genuinely smiled. He forced himself to relax. His wife was clearly competent enough on her own. She didn't even need his help. If her plan worked he would be able to see his target fight without even fighting himself. Maybe being married wouldn't be so bad.

Ly'rea hesitated a moment. Get this man to teach her? He looked more like a devil to her. He'd try to kill her! No, Rasa would be watching. Surely he wouldn't let anything happen to her, right? "I'm eleven. My family..." she glanced down and to the right shyly. "They won't object. What's your name?"

[Om3ga]

Eleven huh? Well at least she's not to young that it would be difficult to teach her. I suppose I can stay in town long enough to teach her a few things. My name is Korin O'niru.

Alright well come in side with my friend here and we can get something to eat. After that we'll get you started.
The way she dodged my last question would lead me to assume that either they won't be okay with me teaching her, or her family is no longer with us. No matter which one it is this could make things a little difficult. I mean I just came to this country and I already have a student. Learning martial arts takes years of training and dedication. Am I really willing to take care of this girl and teach her for years to come? I have my own ambitions to attend to. Well lets first see what she is capable of, she might just quit once she finds out how much work it will be.

So Korin, what do you think of the soup?

Its delicious! I haven't had food this good since I was back home! You have to give me the recipe! What do you think Ly'rea? Oh and tell me about your family, the must be very proud to have such a lovely daughter.

I don't like to be pushy, especially with such a young girl but I need to confirm what I believe to be true.

[shinsayaken]

Ly'rea ate in silence. She had never been good at talking, that was more Rasa's thing. She'd much rather just do what was needed then talk about it. But she had been asked a direct question and felt she should respond. "It's lovely," she responded shyly. "Thank you for feeding me." She then turned her attention to her would be instructor. "My father is a hunter." She suddenly stared intensely. "Do you think you can teach me how to shoot a bow? You're a samurai from Japan right? I've heard they're master archers."

[Om3ga]

Hmmm.. she assumes I'm a Samurai. I guess she came to that conclusion from my sword. Well she is accurate up to a point, I am from Japan and I do have archery training. I guess I shouldn't get hung up on her assumption.

Yes, I can teach you to shoot a bow. We're going to have to build your upper body strength a bit so you can shoot larger bows. That way you can get some power and distance behind each shot. Actually a bow would be a appropriate weapon proficiency for you to learn. But don't think that shooting a bow is the only thing you'll be learning if your my student. There is more to martial arts then simply self defense. I will not only strengthen your body but your heart and soul as well. No student of mine will abuse or misuse anything I teach them! Understood?

Korin looks up as he finishes his meal.

Do you mind if I use your training grounds for the time being my friend and I would like to borrow a bow as well if possible. I don't have one with me currently.

Of course my boy, in fact since I feel a little guilty about forcing you into teaching you can have this bow for your new student.

Thank You. Now Ly'rea, show we begin?

[shinsayaken]

Rasa perched on top of the wall, watching Ly'rea's attempts to use a bow. Her shoulder length hair in a single black braid. He laughed out loud. "Oh Ly'rea, you prove more interesting every day. Bravo." He clapped his hands excitedly. "What a marvelous show." He turned to her instructor and bowed deeply. "My name is Rasa. Thank you so much for participating in such a grand event." He seemed to remember something suddenly and turned back to Ly'rea. "Oh, but that was rude of me to interrupt your training. Please by all means, shoot. Learning to fight is certainly an excellent idea." Then to the instructor, "She lacks strength and experience, but she's very strong willed. Stubborn to boot. I doubt you could find a more capable student you'd be willing to teach. So tell me to whom am I loaning my wife to?"

[Om3ga]

WIFE!?!
But... she's... so young..

The old monk looked on at the young wily looking man before him. He smiles and bellowed out a glorious laugh.

Ah I see this is the cause of the heavy air we've been feeling. Well come in young man, SIT DOWN, have some stew!

Ly'rea, your married! I assume your family approved of the wedding. That is unless you felt the need to leave any other details out. Just so you know lying is a really bad way to start a relationship.

Korin looked to Ly'rea with almost a feel of absolute confusion and annoyance. She said her family wouldn't mind her training and that her father was a hunter. Come to find out she's married to this man who is clearly the one who was giving him that sense of uneasiness.

Korin looked on at the man who claimed to be Ly'rea's "husband".
The man your loaning your wife to is Korin O'niru. The best possible man anyone could loan their wife to!

[shinsayaken]

Rasa laughed so hard he fell off the wall he had been perched on and hit his head on the ground. "Ow." He rubbed at his hair rapidly as he rolled into a sitting position. "Korin O'niru? Hmm..." He began making a show of thinking hard. "You certainly seem confident, though surely you jest. I could list off at least five others I would rather trust with something precious right now if you wanted. Although you are certainly capable of applying for the spot of number six. Although seventh might be better as you believe her to be lying." He looked to the old man. "Do you serve tea? A cup would be appropriate right now, wouldn't it? Oh yes, before I forget," turning back to Korin. "You sound surprised by our union. Do they not have marriage in your country? How do you know whom is related to whom? Where was I..." he trailed off as he spotted Ly'rea trying to hide in a corner. "Oh dear, now I've gone and made her mad again." Rasa sighed. "The lady has spoken! I must resign myself to boredom for yet another moment." And finally, stopped talking.

[Om3ga]

Korin watched carefully at Rasa's comical yet almost controlled antics. He couldn't help but snicker at what appeared to be his misfortune and possibly lose of control.

Yes, we do have marriage where I come from. But I personally always thought it odd to get married at such a young age. I also have my own personal views on someone's reason for getting married.

Alas, it seems you have on the back burner for the position I see. Though I'm not sure what you would call the position I have acquired. Ah, but look at it this way my comical friend. You may have me at six or seven but she did ask me and my friend here personally to teach her. I was hand selected you see. So that must account for something. Oh and lets not forget, she did ask me and not her husband to teach her. But that is neither here nor there. Though I will have to remember that Ly'rea is your off switch. I'll remember to keep that switch handy at all times.

The old monk laughed as the two young men took jabs at one another. Yes my young lad, I do have tea. The best tea I've been told. Outside of my stew its the only thing my students really look forward to when it comes to meals.

But if you doubt my ability to teach.. among other things then I issue a challenge. I wager that I can have Ly'rea shoot this apple off the top of your head in one try with this bow and arrow. Korin pulls a small compact bow and a Fuji apple from his possessions Oh and I don't mean after some more practice. I mean right now! Do you accept? Korin throws the apple to Rasa.

[shinsayaken]

Rasa didn't react to the apple. Instead he stood there and let it hit his chest and fall, seemingly by coincidence, into his upturned right hand. He considered the apple for a minute before lifting it to his mouth and taking a large bite. "An interesting proposal," bits of the fruit escaped from his mouth as he spoke. "But there are two things you're mistaken about. The first," he swallowed and took another bite, "is that I have no doubts about Ly'rea's capabilities."