Hamburupi

A conversation between generations!

— I thought you'd talk about them. The message those two young men gave me was very clear. They have quite a spirit, they just need more training.

The musketeer paces restlessly back and forth in the commander's office. Shirei-Kan follows him with his eyes, as if waiting for some abnormal reaction from the kyapen.

— This had better be taken very seriously, Renāto. Araukaria's union was at stake after your accident with Kosuta. You need to understand that: Either we settle this once and for all, or this region will split into two weakened territories. I can't let that happen.

— Very soothing, like your mother was. You talk as if I want war. I came here exactly to help you with that, Commander.

— I didn't say that. You're here out of necessity on both sides, due to your fight with...

Renāto interrupts the commander by punching the table. The punch reflects his emotions more than the strength of the kyapen.

— You know more than anyone what happened in that fight!

His eyes flash instantly, but Renāto soon realizes his exaltation and calms down.

— I'm sorry about that. But it all seems to come down to one mistake, and that's not true.

— Then what was it? — Gurenāru asks.

— An oversight. When I was at the apex, I didn't see that the control had reversed position.

Shirei Kan calmly turns his gaze to Renāto's large bandaged weapon.

— Yes, I remember exactly what happened. And yet you still carry it with you. May I examine it?

Then Renāto unsheathes the great sword, and a white, blue, and black-hilted sword is revealed. On its side, there are sharp teeth, like saws. In the corner of the sword's tip, a sharply curved part is seen, like that of a scimitar sword. And its base is very thick, as if it had more functions than just a base. Renāto places the sword on Gurenāru II's table, who takes turns looking at it and the musketeer's eyes.

— As bright as that day. Are you managing to control it? I know it's a lot to take in after so long.

— Whenever I think I am, memories of my companions and Kosuta come back to me. These memories make me lose control of my movements, and I'm back to square one. That's why I train every day, both physically and psychologically, so that I don't let Hamburupi influence my Dentō again.

— And is that burden worth it, musketeer?

— My greatest disadvantage can also be my greatest advantage, sir. It doesn't matter how long I'm isolated to achieve this.

— Well, you'll have to do it much sooner than expected. I want you to go to Dō no Mori with your Kai, and settle this matter with the chimaras. And I want you to include Kosuta in this because his influence could be essential for peace to happen.

— You can't be serious... — says Renāto, making a sarcastic face.

— More than you know. Tell them the real story, the same one you told me. Promote peace somehow. No one else could do that but you, old friend.

— Do you want me to lose control again? — exclaims Renāto, in a slightly louder tone than usual — It's like sending a lamb to the slaughterhouse, only the lamb has the chance to turn into a wolf.

— And what do you want, Renāto? Do you want a united Araukaria, just as my father and mother always wanted? Your oath may be in check due to isolation, but respect their will!

Renāto remains silent, as a gesture of respect and consent.

— That's what I thought," adds Shirei Kan, "you'll leave tomorrow morning. Rest your mind, you'll need it.

Renāto picks up his sword, re-bandages it, and keeps it behind his back

— As you wish, sir. Is my Kai already gathered?

— Yes, they're waiting for you at headquarters. They say they have a technique that will unseat your role as kyapen — says Gurenāru, breaking the ice.

— That's what we'll see. I also have a few new tricks up my sleeve. So long.

Just as Renāto was about to leave the room, Gurenāru called out to him.

— Oh, and one last thing.

— Sir?

— Don't let her control you again. That's an order. 

— Hamburupi is the only thing left of my companions, sir. I give you my word that it will never happen again. After all... We'll always be all for one!

Renāto leaves the room, responsibility weighing heavily on his shoulders, aware of the challenge that awaits him. He knows that his dedication and training during his isolation will bring results in eastern Araukaria!

Next stop: Dō no Mori!