Demonic Awakening (Volume 2)

By KP Merriweather

When the very forces Chaka Isawa trained for years to destroy slowly consume him, the master swordsman cuts a path of destruction, leaving behind corpses wherever he happens to be.
Controlling such fearsome power tests the strength of the warrior monk Jurou Seiki, who is under orders to kill the man known simply as ‘The Beast’. His task, to destroy the sinister force influencing Chaka proves difficult, as his life is under threat as well!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Majestik Multimedia
• Release date: Jan 5, 2014
• ISBN: 9781311546951

KP Merriweather

KP Merriweather enjoys drawing comics, playing and programming video games, and writing novels. She currently resides in St. Louis, MO.

Book preview

PART THREE

THE AWAKENING

THIRTY-THREE

Moon 10 – 3rd Day

Jurou awoke with a start, gasping weakly for breath, chilled as cold sweat beaded his forehead and neck. Unable to recall his dream, he glanced at his recently replaced door, half expecting a demon there. Relieved when he saw his talisman nailed to the frame, Jurou left his bed, padding for the shower.

After washing and changing clothes, as Jurou slipped on his sandals and pulled into a split outer jacket, a knock sounded at his door. Jurou hurried over and opened it, revealing Baiuko in a beige bathrobe with a running honeysuckle pattern over a yellow sleep shirt.

Why are you up so early? he asked.

A courier dropped off some packages for you, she replied. I signed for you, if you didn't mind…

It's fine.

Would you like to come down and see? Jurou nodded and walked downstairs with Baiuko toward her room. Upon entry, he noticed several crates stacked in the corner of the room near her closet. I think it's your weapons you've been waiting on!

My demon slaying tools, Jurou murmured.

No lying? Baiuko exclaimed, astonished. You don't look like a devil slayer!

Jurou's face flushed and he ran a hand nervously through his hair. Well, what's one supposed to look like? Baiuko laughed and Jurou opened her closet, withdrawing the green-steeled jintachi and golden tsurugi. Do you have something to open this crate with? he asked as he buckled on the blades.

You can always get another if you're worried about damaging it, Baiuko said, rolling her eyes.

Then you pay for it.

Are you that cheap that you can't send for new crates when you ship your tools back home?

Unfortunately, yes.

Baiuko huffed and reached in, pulling out a staff from her closet. I'll show you my strength, she declared. I've been practicing helmet splitting. She twirled the staff in hand, let out a shout and swiftly brought it down, striking the crate.

Jurou's eyes widened when the crate split cleanly in half. You seem so weak in sparring practice, he said in awe.

It's only because I get distracted easily.

Jurou shrugged his shoulders and opened the crates, revealing several weapons that glowed dimly in amethystine light. He withdrew a wakizashi in a decorated silver scabbard and hooked the harness around his waist, pushing the weapon to the middle of his back.

Put up the rest for me, will you? Jurou requested.

Is that all you're taking? Baiuko asked, incredulous.

These two are Chaka's…

What of the third?

He didn't say anything about bringing it.

What if you lose your only weapon?

"That means my genjutsu needs more work."

Baiuko blew a disconcerted sigh. I'll put it away for you, she promised. They'll be safe here.

Thank you so much. Jurou made his way for her door and she called for him to wait. What is it? He turned around, facing Baiuko who leaned against her lacquered staff, blushing slightly.

I want to give you something…

Why give me a gift?

Well, I want to see you succeed.

There's something else, isn't there?

Baiuko nodded. That and seeing that accursed beast Isawa Chaka cut down a few notches! Jurou chuckled in response, watching her approach her nightstand. Baiuko sifted through her drawer then withdrew a small black box tied with twine. Here it is! she said brightly and tossed it to him.

Jurou caught it, unknotted the twine, and lifted the lid, revealing a golden bracelet. His hands tingled as he withdrew the bangle and elevated up his nose as he held it away from him.

"What a gaudy thing! he thought, glancing at Baiuko. Baiuko held a hand to her chest, her hopeful expression turning disappointed. I don't want to make her cry; I don't know what she had to do to get me this…"

Jurou put on a cheerful mask as he grinned broadly. Ah, I'm just taking an artistic glance! he lied and took out the gilded gold chain. This is very kind of you to get me this… I have no way of repaying you.

Just promise me one thing, Baiuko said in a serious tone as Jurou pocketed the box and clasped the chain over his right wrist. He locked the bangle in place and it slid down his slender forearm. Looping the chain, Jurou wrapped it around again to keep it from falling. Promise me you'll get rid of those monsters that are devouring his heart.

I will.

Or bring back his heart, I don't care.

Jurou paled at her statement. You don't mean that, he said nervously, do you?

Please.

Jurou nodded. I'll try my best. Jurou left Baiuko's room and headed upstairs. Approaching the last room on the floor, he knocked on Chaka's entrance and it came ajar. Chaka, are you awake? he called. You said you wanted to spar today. When Jurou heard no response, he opened the door, finding Chaka lying in bed with the covers over his head. Chaka…?

Jurou looked around the room and noticed the numerous varied weapons that hung on the walls, with some stained and others polished.

"Did a shipment also come for him? he mused. Jurou's foot struck ceramic and he glanced down, finding a wine bottle on the floor. He's not asleep, but three sheets to the wind! Jurou approached the bed and shook Chaka by the shoulder. Wake up!" he shouted.

Not today, Chaka grumbled from under the covers.

Why did you drink to excess last night, knowing we had to go out today? Jurou punched him in the shoulder.

I didn't want him to hurt you.

Jurou paused, stunned. What?

He wants to hurt you, Saku…

Jurou pulled against the sheets, ripping them away. Revealing Chaka underneath, he appeared badly beaten and bruised, his chest and arms covered by cuts that had drying blood and his right eye nearly swollen shut.

Jurou gasped and dropped the sheets. Who beat you like this? he cried.

Who else? Chaka grumbled.

How much longer do you think you can fend off those treasure hunters?

Chaka grunted and grabbed for the sheets, pulling them back over his head. Don't stare, he growled. I'm ugly!

Come on out of bed! Jurou pulled the sheets away again and grabbed Chaka's arm, pulling him upright. A nice cold shower should sober you!

"Get me more saké, Chaka said and hiccupped. The pain is unbearable!"

I'll get you some.

I've some barters in my pocket. Jurou stiffened when Chaka grabbed him by the back of the hair. Get me a bottle or I'll beat on you!

You're too drunk for that.

I mean it! Chaka released his grip and socked Jurou in the chest with a swift punch.

Jurou groaned, slipping to his knees. I'm sorry, he moaned and staggered to his feet. "I don't know which is worse, Jurou wondered, his strength naturally or when he's had a few in him!" Reaching forward, he searched Chaka's pockets and Chaka suddenly giggled.

Stop that, Chaka yelped, pushing Jurou away.

I'm searching for barters, Jurou snapped, so stay still!

Chaka giggled again and shoved Jurou to the floor. Jurou grunted once he landed on his rear and Chaka quickly stood unsteadily to his feet, forcing the sheeting falling on the floor, revealing his nude body.

My trousers are over there, Chaka said, pointing to the pile of clothing behind the door. We'll play later.

Jurou's face flushed as Chaka stomped for the washroom. "He's impossible! Jurou thought and grunted. Scrambling to his feet, he approached the pile of clothing and sorted through them, searching for Chaka's coin purse. Why would he suddenly carry barters with him unless he obtained the saké last night…?"

After going through several pairs of slacks, he finally found a small violet satchel that jingled. Jurou felt a cool hand on his shoulder and looked up at Chaka who stood over him from behind. What is it? he asked.

"I'm out of zubon, Chaka said sullenly. I can't shower if I know I have no pants."

You can't wear mine, Jurou said nervously as he rose, standing. Your waist is bigger than mine.

Then get me a skirt.

Are you comfortable with that?

Then I'll go naked.

Jurou hurried to the door and blocked his path. I'll buy you one, all right? he said. You should have enough barters.

"Don't spend any more than fifty Mon, please?"

Jurou's eyes widened. F-fifty? he sputtered.

That's not excessive, is it? Chaka murmured, frowning.

No, no, it's not at all! Jurou gave a tight smile. Will you be here when I get back? Chaka nodded. Go, shower, and take your time, please? I'll hurry back. Chaka nodded again and left for the washroom once more.

Jurou blew a sigh of relief when he heard the chain pulled and water running. He left the room, raced downstairs to Baiuko's quarters, and banged on the door.

What is it? Baiuko's voice cried in alarm. The door came open, revealing the young woman wrapped in a towel. Jurou's face flushed.

I need a skirt. She suddenly laughed and Jurou waved his hands. It's not for me! he cried. Chaka just made this strange demand and he's a bit sick, you see…

Sick, oh? Baiuko teased. Well, there isn't anyone his size that lives here.

Then take me shopping.

You've never been to the shopping district?

Jurou shook his head. I never left campus! he admitted.

Baiuko blew an annoyed sigh. How much time do you have?

Maybe about a bell or half a bell…

Fine, I'll take you. Jurou sat on the floor near the door as Baiuko left his side and headed over to her trunk. You know, getting caught up with him may hurt you. His heart is dark and his soul…

Please, Baiuko, Jurou protested as she pulled out various articles. Not today.

Baiuko huffed and she withdrew a skirt, stepping into it. Jurou glanced away as she let the towel drop to the floor.

How much did he give you to spend? Baiuko asked.

"Fifty Mon, more or less," replied Jurou.

Oh, big spender, eh? Baiuko teased. You can eat well for twelve seasons off that! After dressing, Baiuko approached Jurou and knelt beside him. You must think I'm ugly or something.

What? Jurou said in indifference.

Baiuko grabbed Jurou by the chin, turning him around to face her. Is he that distracting? she demanded.

Jurou smiled warmly, noting her black skirt and green sleeveless blouse. Do you have underpants on? He lifted her skirt and Baiuko smacked him. Jurou laughed and she smiled faintly.

At least you're not obsessed with him, Baiuko said in relief. I know of a place that's not too far. They allow us a student discount. She rose to her feet. Follow me. Jurou stood and stepped out into the hall as she shut her door then followed her outside.

Chaka exited the shower and blindly reached out for his towel on the nearby rack, only to gain one handed to him.

Thanks, he murmured and grabbed for it, then ran it through his hair.

After drying off, Chaka wrapped the towel about his waist, and came to a pause when he felt a cold presence nearby. Whirling around, Chaka faced the crimson knight leaning casually against the counter with his arms folded across his chest.

"You enjoy his touch, do you not? Tannozume teased. Chaka clenched his teeth, taking a step back and his breath thinned as the devil left the counter, approaching him. You want him to touch you more, in other places you like."

Chaka grunted when unexpectedly grabbed by the crotch and given a hard squeeze that sent him to his knees. I'm too ugly to be looked at that way, he moaned from his place on the floor.

"So you rather have his touch heal you?" Tannozume grumbled and Chaka groaned when grabbed by the hair in a firm grasp.

I said nothing like that, he hissed, grimacing as the demon tightened his grip and yanked back his head.

"Then what is it you want?"

Whatever you want.

"Good. Chaka let out a cry once thrown back and the carmine devil faded. Chaka stood unsteadily to his feet and walked mechanically for his chests. Dirty fool, you never wash your things!" Tannozume grumbled as Chaka sorted through his remaining clothes.

I was too busy with the likes of you! Chaka snapped back. I wasted time by neglecting my routine! Finding an overshirt, he pulled it on and grabbed for a loincloth tucked in the far rear to unroll and wrap about his waist.

"If they deem you mad, then you will be left to your devices, which is what I want!"

"What about what I want?" After tucking the cloth in place, Chaka grabbed for an overcoat and slipped into it.

"Who cares about what you want?"

Chaka slammed the trunk shut. I'm not going out like this, he snapped.

"We are going out."

Then take over and save me the humiliation!

Tannozume laughed and darkness entered Chaka's mind quickly.

THIRTY-FOUR

Jurou spent the day with Baiuko, completely forgetting his task. They walked around the market district, browsing shops and speaking with merchants. Jurou felt slightly displaced by the respect he was given and at times free samples of the shopkeeper's wares. Stopping at a diner, Jurou took an outdoor seat and Baiuko ordered for them.

Why do you seem so nervous? Baiuko complained as she sat across from him at the table. Cheer up!

They think of me as some grand warrior, Jurou complained and put his chin in his hand, pouting. I'm only carrying Chaka's weapons; I possibly can't handle these heavy things!

I'd soak up all the attention I can garner! Baiuko noted. If my reputation preceded me, I'd enjoy it all the more!

What reputation? Jurou said sourly then blew a sigh.

A server returned with two glasses of tea and set it on the table with a cloth napkin. Lady's salmon will be ready in a moment, she said, bowing slightly. Will Sir like anything with his rice?

Plain rice is fine, answered Jurou.

No garnishes?

None, thanks.

The server bowed again and left the table.

The reason you're weak is because you don't eat enough! Baiuko said as she picked up her glass. If you're going to best Chaka at all, you have to eat more!

At least it's not white rice, Jurou protested.

"Add some shiitake or a radish or eggplant or something! If all you're having is rice, at least eat nuta for variety!"

Jurou shrugged his shoulders. "I don't think I have enough Mon to stop by a Green Grocer later..."

Baiuko snorted. Well he's got more than enough to eat fresh fish for cycles!

I've never seen him eat really… Jurou said instead, leaning back in his chair.

Baiuko smirked. He probably eats more than a wild boar.

Jurou chuckled. Boars do eat a lot! He took up his glass and sipped his tea, listening to Baiuko talk about trivial matters while his mind wandered about Chaka.

"I wonder what he's doing, he mused. He was so hung over he probably went back to sleep and forgot about sending me out to get him a skirt."

Their meals came and Baiuko clasped her hands, bowing her head. "Ittadakimasu, she murmured then took up her eating sticks, picking at her meal of salmon and broccoli over boiled buckwheat noodles. Jurou nodded, saying the same. Are you guilty about spending his stipend? Baiuko asked moments later. He must consider you a friend if he trusted you with his uchibukuro!"

"He's got all that Hiki and Mon and Zeni and a few Koban in there, Jurou said softly. I never knew he was wealthy."

He doesn't look the part, does he?

Jurou set down his glass and picked up his eating sticks, poking at his brown rice. "He speaks like a Chonin most of the time, he murmured, but his proper speech does betray him at times…"

You can hear he's trying hard to act like a commoner.

And his clothes… they're so plain, yet well made.

That's right, Baiuko agreed. I can't even afford nice attire like that, especially such fine cotton!

What is he running from?

Maybe he's on a warrior's pilgrimage to improve his skills. Baiuko twirled her eating sticks in hand. Or maybe he's a wandering mystic seeking enlightenment.

Jurou suddenly burst out laughing. "On a musha shugyo as a heishin? he said and laughed harder. That's too romantic of a notion; Chaka's nothing like that!"

Then what do you think? Jurou shook his head and resumed eating. "Goshisosama." Jurou nodded, saying nothing.

After lunch and paying for their meal, Jurou and Baiuko continued their trek in the market square, browsing the stalls.

What kind of skirt are you getting him? Baiuko asked as they entered another shop with fine silks.

A long one of course, Jurou answered as he went through the clothes folded on the shelf.

You just don't want to see those skinny legs of his, Baiuko teased, and those knobby rocks he calls knees!

Jurou chortled. I don't think he looks that bad, he murmured.

Oh, how do you know? Baiuko jested.

I've seen him nude a few times. He picked up a long indigo skirt with white paper cranes as the pattern. What do you think of this one?

Oh, at the hot springs? Baiuko shook her head. That's too busy.

No, a few times in the bay when he was swimming and other times in his room. Baiuko's cheerful smile quickly vanished and she struck him in the arm. Hey! Jurou cried and pushed her away.

So you like him more than a friend? she chided.

No, it's nothing like that! Jurou snapped as he folded the garment and placed it back on the shelf. We're just friends and he's that comfortable around me.

Maybe he's trying to get your attention.

Jurou snorted. I don't care.

You'd have to be mad to harbor such feelings for a beast like that!

Would you condemn me if I did?

Baiuko said nothing as Jurou went to another shelf of brown skirts and pulled out one to admire. Jurou ran his hands over the cloth that depicted shoots of bamboo and sparrows.

So do you like girls? Baiuko pressed moments later.

Oh?

You heard me.

Maybe, Jurou answered and placed the skirt back.

So you like men then?

I don't know. Baiuko grabbed Jurou by the arm and he grabbed her by the collar, drawing her close. She gasped and recoiled as Jurou leaned in. If you try looking into my heart again, I will put out your eye, he said evenly. I promised to do that, remember? Baiuko nodded, unable to answer. So don't try that again!

Baiuko shoved him away and brushed off her clothes. I don't know why I bothered to help you, she spat. If he destroys you, it's your fault!

You know, you're a pushy and very nosy girl, Jurou spat back. If you learn to be nice and trust others, then you wouldn't have to be so forceful!

I hope he chops you to bits! Baiuko huffed and stomped out the store.

Oh, you don't mean that! Jurou called after her.

The merchant approached Jurou offside and bowed politely. Sir's lady seems to be in a bad mood, she said.

It's all right, Jurou said, waving the shopkeeper away. She's just a friend.

The merchant smiled. Have you found anything you like?

I'm not quite sure… Jurou blew a short sigh. I don't know his size…

"I have some fine montsuki haori… Tell me which House he hails from and I can add the needed crests to it."

I just need a skirt.

Is it for Ceremony, Sir?

He told me to get a skirt, but didn't specify which kind.

Oh…

"He's about five Koraishaku tall."

My, quite the giant, the shopkeeper said and chuckled. How big around is he?

"Maybe about twenty-five or twenty-seven Tsun more or less…"

Thin fellow isn't he?

That's just by looking at him. I could be wrong.

The merchant nodded. I doubt I have something like that, she replied. Would Sir like for me to craft it tonight and deliver in the morning?

I guess he wouldn't mind that. Jurou withdrew the coin purse and sifted through the currency. Would this be enough? He pulled out a large gold coin and handed it to the shopkeeper.

The merchant cleared her throat. Sir, I don't have the change for this!

He deserves the best.

The merchant swallowed hard. Sir, I doubt my best is good enough for your gold. She bowed deeply. Please, I must kindly refuse.

Jurou shrugged and placed the coin on the counter. If you still can't come up with anything, return it to the boardinghouse and ask for Seiki.

"I will, Kengo Seiki."

Jurou put up his hands. I'm no master, he said.

"Kenshi…?"

My skills aren't enough to be considered a decent fencer.

"Senshi then?"

Er, good enough, I suppose. Jurou left the shop and found Baiuko standing near the door. Why are you still here? he asked, surprised.

It would be rude to leave, she answered.

Oh, so you know the meaning of rudeness? Baiuko punched Jurou in the chest. He grunted and brushed her off. We went through all the stalls here in Shotenmachi, Jurou said instead.

You didn't spend a whole lot.

I know, but I still feel a bit guilty.

Let's get back. It will be evening soon.

Jurou nodded and they started the long trek back for the boardinghouse.

Chaka stood on the edge of the hostel's roof, looking down at the students returning from their day out for the boardinghouse. He clenched tightly to the spear he held and perched on the ledge, gazing at cloudy skies.

It's going to rain soon, Chaka murmured. I wonder if he'll make it back in time.

Chaka grinned when he spotted Jurou walking with Baiuko through the courtyards. He took off running, following them as they headed toward the canopy, speaking in hushed tones to each other. Chaka vaulted off and landed gracefully on his feet, startling Jurou.

Jurou let out a cry in terror and stumbled backwards before striking the ground on his rear. Chaka! he yelped. What are you doing out of bed?

Are you happy to see me? Chaka asked, grinning.

How did you jump down from there? Baiuko demanded. Chaka ignored her and extended a hand to Jurou, helping him to his feet.

It was fairly easy, Chaka answered. Agility is earned, not taught. He turned away, puffing out his chest. I have many plans for us. Are you willing to go through with it?

I don't see why not, Jurou said, nodding. Baiuko punched Jurou in the chest and he pushed her away, grimacing. Quite the strike, girl! Jurou snapped. Keep that up and you might stop my heart!

You didn't even ask for any explanation! Baiuko shouted. If he were leading you to your death, you wouldn't care how he executed you!

Would you care how I execute you? Chaka asked and came at Baiuko with a forward lunge. Baiuko swiftly sidestepped the attack, slamming a foot into the back of his head with a jumping reverse roundhouse.

Painful enough for you? she snapped as Chaka struck the dirt, stunned and the lance he held clattered away. Are you sure you want to do that again?

Quite the speed, Saku, Chaka moaned from his place on the ground. Maybe you should learn a few things from her.

I'd rather not. Jurou answered and stood between Chaka and Baiuko who clenched her hands, enraged. Baiuko, please, leave him be. It's clear he's inebriated.

Don't make me hate you, she snarled.

Oh, you won't be able to find any reasons! he retorted.

I hope he violates you!

Jurou stiffened and Baiuko stomped away. Chaka began giggling and Jurou used his foot to push against him, turning the young man onto his back.

That isn't funny, Jurou snapped.

Did you go to Ichibachiku and pick up a few things for me? Chaka asked, smiling brightly.

You didn't say you were hungry at all. Jurou shook his head. I'm sorry I couldn't. I didn't quite understand what you wanted. Chaka sat up and picked up the spear, holding it between his knees. How much have you had today?

Chaka looked up at Jurou who stood over him. A few more bottles that you had no idea about, he answered slowly.

If I wash your clothes, Jurou said exasperatedly as he grew irritated, will you promise not to drink alone anymore?

A fine offer if I must say.

Come on, you're going to help me wash.

Where?

There's a laundry downstairs.

THIRTY-FIVE

Jurou scrubbed the shirts he held against the washboard and wiped his forehead against his arm, then glared up at Chaka who sat on a nearby crate with his legs crossed, staring at him in interest.

Chaka had his overcoat draped crosswise on his knees, covering his lap and the spear he rest across from where Jurou stood against the wall, with the golden tsurugi and the green-steeled jintachi leaning nearby.

You were supposed to be doing this, Jurou snapped.

Would it surprise you that I have no idea how to do such a task? Chaka asked, grinning. I grew up in the city, you see.

Washing clothes isn't something only someone from the countryside does, grumbled Jurou. I think you like watching me work.

No, no, it's not just that.

Jurou grunted and pushed up his sleeves. Then help wash or just be content with filthy clothes.

Chaka chuckled and set aside his overcoat, then unfolded from his position. Jurou ground his teeth, raking the shirt he held against the washboard as Chaka stalked out the room.

Moments later Chaka returned with two buckets of water and poured them into an empty barrel near Jurou. Jurou passed him the wet shirt and Chaka rolled up the sleeves of his overshirt before taking it and dunking it several times in the water before wringing it.

Where is the line? Chaka asked.

Behind you, Jurou replied.

Jurou relaxed slightly as he washed and Chaka rinsed and hung the articles to dry in silence. After finishing the last pair of trousers, Jurou blew a hard sigh and sat on his knees, leaning forward.

Chaka knelt beside him. I know why you did this, he said coldly. Jurou stiffened as Chaka draped an arm around his shoulders and pulled him closer. "You think by surrounding me with water, you could perform yakubarai and purge my soul of the darkness that resides in my heart!"

The thought never crossed my mind, Jurou cried. Honestly!

Liar!

Jurou sucked in a shallow breath when Chaka pushed him back, throwing him down to the floor. Jurou immediately crawled away as Chaka stood, his bright gray eyes turning dull and blank.

I just wanted to help you with your clothes-washing, Jurou said quickly. That's what friends do!

Chaka's head cocked to the side and a tight smile appeared on his face. Oh? He let out a short laugh. So we're friends when it suits you, eh?

I think of you as my friend, Jurou pleaded. I would really like to be a friend of yours, that's all!

Then as friends, maybe you wouldn't mind wearing a mark of some kind.

What do you mean?

I want everyone to see that we are friends. This mark of friendship we will both share is so that we can never forget, for it is forever binding!

Jurou bumped his back against the wall and Chaka grabbed the nearby spear, tapping it against his palm.

Will you then stop lying to me? Jurou demanded.

When have I lied to you?

"About your family, where you come from… You said you were Chonin and act as if you're a townsman, but you're wealthy!" Jurou dug through his pockets and produced the coin purse.

"Ah, Saku, so you want my okane? Take it. I don't need it."

Jurou tossed the purse at Chaka's feet. No, I wouldn't be a true friend if I took it. He put up his hands. "I don't