69

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"It's good to see you, Ibaraki," Byakko calls out to me with a grin, his shades sitting low on his nose so his eyes peer over the top.

He's leaning back against the wall of the gym with his hands in the pockets of his black sweatpants. On his torso sits a simple grey loose tanktop with long drop arm holes. The only statement piece of his outfit is the silver chain that hangs loosely around his neck, weighed down by a large medallion engraved with a roaring tiger. Though with how loose the tank top is and how little it covers, his muscles are enough of a statement for passersby. As evidenced by the admiring looks he gets from men and women alike.

"Good to see you too. Though I was surprised when you reached out to me." I respond as he stands up and falls in step with me, the two of us heading to the entrance.

After my talk with Izanami, I received a surprise message from Byakko asking if I was busy and if I wanted to hang out. With time to spare, and more than a little interested in what prompted this, I decided there wouldn't be any harm in seeing where this led.

That is how I ended up here, entering a members-only gym with Byakko just outside the Shinra clan's territory in Kyoto.

Thankfully, Byakko hadn't just sent me the address without an explanation so I'm at least dressed for the gym. I settled on a simple and sporty outfit consisting of matching white shorts, a white sports bra, and a cropped black hoodie.

"I wanted to get to know you more, both to smooth over the misunderstanding of our first meeting and because you're close to Suzaku." He responds with a wide smile as we breeze through security, the staff bowing to him as we pass.

"And to deal with the lingering issue of your family's martial arts?" I ask casually and he shrugs.

"If you also want to deal with that today, then sure. I'll admit that I want to settle that but if Suzaku trusts you enough to date you, I can trust her enough to not push too hard." A bit of tension leaves my shoulders as the mood continues to trend towards something friendly.

I was worried that there would be some lingering animosity. Even if I'd be able to deal with it, one of Suzaku's close friends disliking me would make our relationship more awkward than I'd like.

We wind our way through long lines of exercise machines and weight racks, all being used in the packed gym. The choice of venue Byakko chose is odd, considering how public it is.

"I don't mind, it would be better for both of us to get that out of the way." I shrug and continue, "I'd also like to hear how things are progressing with our political issue. I have some news on that end to share too."

Byakko's jaw sets into a grimace and his shoulders tense. After a moment he shakes his head and rolls his shoulders to loosen up.

"You're all business today, huh? I didn't ask if you wanted to hang out for that, but sure, we can discuss that too." He sighs and his previous easy grin becomes a bit forced.

I feel a bit awkward as the mood drops and change tracks mentally.

Clearly, I misunderstood what this was about, and if anything this works better. If he's willing to put our first meeting in the past and try to start from zero like this, I have no reason not to do the same.

We approach a set of guarded double doors at the back of the gym and the guards open the doors for us after they notice Byakko.

Unlike the gym we just passed through, which is a modern upscale gym, what is through the doors is a traditional dojo with the addition of… well, magical variants of vintage weightlifting equipment, if I had to describe them.

The equipment looks decades old and would seem mundane if it weren't for the sealing tags covering the weights. Hell, the heavy bag hanging in the corner is even layered in its own seals. That and a fair amount of duct tape.

Besides that, there are two doors at the back of the room. From the labels, one leads to a sauna, and the other to a 'Pressure Room'.

After the doors close behind us, Byakko looks over at me with a wide grin and spreads his arms outward in a grand gesture. "Welcome to my temple."

He looks inordinately proud and not a small amount smug at his declaration, "You won't find a better place to work out in Kyoto. I'd stake my life on that claim."

"Impressive?" I hedge and he gives me a look that screams confusion.

"It's state of the art," He continues slowly, "The seals analyze the capabilities of the user and adjust the weight or resistance accordingly. It's a very complex system of seals that create an ideal environment for training."

We stop in the center of the room as his explanation ends and he rubs his chin with a frown. "I assumed from your muscles that you'd appreciate the equipment here. Is it a cultural thing? Do you only use natural training, like sparring, body weight exercises, and rocks or something?"

It's my turn to be confused and I tilt my head as my eyebrows furrow, "Yes and no? I like to spar and do light exercise to stay limber I guess but most of my physical training is Body Refinement. I don't need to lift, you know?"

Byakko looks shocked as he processes my explanation, "Seriously? But… How do I put this…"

"Have you not noticed that your physical growth is plateauing or the rate of growth is becoming glacial? Doesn't it feel like your body is becoming almost resistant to that method?" He questions as he starts to pace.

I nod along slowly and he looks assured, "Hm, that's what I would expect. I won't pry into your exact training methods, in case they're secret techniques, but there's a reason I have a facility like this."

"Humans can certainly use techniques similar to what you call Body Refinement; gradually and permanently enhancing their physiques through internal energy. Of course, only families with long histories and strong foundations in martial arts have techniques of their own nowadays. " This comes as a surprise to me because Hanuel seemed completely unaware of that possibility till I showed him how to do it.

Maybe his family's history is far shorter or never experimented in that direction.

"But the point is we can and do use what you call Body Refinement." Byakko's expression is passionate as he speaks and I can tell that this is more than memorization for him.

He's invested in the subject beyond mere academic interest.

"I don't know the intricacies of your physiology but I was lectured on universal truths of martial arts constantly growing up. Case in point these principles; A vessel solely refined from within will soften, becoming permeable to Inner energy or burst. A vessel solely refined from without will harden, becoming brittle to Outer force or collapse. Therefore a balance between Inner and Outer skills is essential for any true martial artist." He stops his pacing abruptly and turns to me with a serious expression.

"Outer Arts may be tedious and slow to bear fruit but the results are beautiful because of that," Byakko states as though expounding a religious truth, and perhaps it is one to him, "Lifting is more than simple exercise, it's community, the harmony of the body and spirit, and enlightenment all at once."

I'd be lying if his words didn't speak to me on some level. If working out helps me become stronger then there's no reason for me to avoid it. It's not as though I have issues committing to training.

As if sensing I'm close to seeing things his way, he puts his hand on my shoulder and smiles, "Besides, working out will help refine your physique even further. If Suzaku thinks you're sexy now, after you put work in at the gym she'll find you irresistible."

"Fuck it! Let's do this." I grit my teeth and prepare myself, shuddering at the excitement in Byakko's eyes.

"You won't regret this decision! I'll help you dial in your technique and teach you all the tricks of the trade." He pumps a fist in joy, "It's so hard to find a gym buddy who can keep up with me. Neither Suzaku nor Seiryuu can keep up in raw strength and Ouryuu doesn't have that passion."

"There are other members of the Shinra Clan who are close enough in ability to me but there's a power imbalance with me being the Inheritor of the White Tiger. It makes casual interactions stiff and that's not what lifting is about, you know?" He sighs and shakes his head.

I nod along, understanding what he's getting at. Not being able to share your passion with your friends on a level that's fulfilling sucks.

Well, he already sold me on working out with him before saying that so it's not like I'm pitying him, "I'll try not to disappoint. What are we starting with?"

"Before we begin with that though, let's deal with the formalities." My eye twitches as he shifts away from the topic of lifting.

Don't get me fired up if we're going to deal with the other stuff first!

He rubs his jaw in consideration, "There's not much to update you with regarding the Devils. We only just reached out to their Foreign Affairs and with the magnitude of the issue they won't respond before careful consideration.

They won't make us wait either but it will be a day or two before we hear back."

"Altering the martial arts you copied is more important at the moment." Glancing over at some of the benches he heads over and takes a seat.

After I sit on one across from him he continues, "I guess to start, I need to explain how my clan's martial arts work and what we are going to need to alter for you to freely use them."

I raise a brow and he waves a hand dismissively, "Just so nobody in my clan causes any issues if they see you using them. I agree that you didn't 'steal' the techniques and I did try to kill you."

"Where was I? Right, martial arts." He snaps his fingers as he gets back on track, "There are two main philosophies for reaching the pinnacle of martial arts; The incarnation of abstract ideals or the perfection of technique. Both are acceptable paths to pursue and all martial arts do both to some degree but my family's technique focuses on the embodiment of the abstract."

Before Byakko can continue I interrupt him, "Why not pursue both fully? If both approaches produce the result you want and can be done together, wouldn't the best result come from completing both paths?"

Byakko sighs and shakes his head, "It isn't that simple."

"One method relies on addition and the other on subtraction. How can you shave away unnecessary movements in a technique while also adding symbolic motions on top of it? A strike that mimics a tiger isn't the most efficient claw strike, its power comes from the ferocity and symbolism. If you take that away, gaining a more efficient application of force, you lose the power added by the symbolism." He briefly demonstrates the two variations of claw strikes he's talking about.

The one he is used to shows incredible power and ferocity, while the second more efficient one is slightly faster but lacks power.

"Moving on, my family's technique embodies the White Tiger of the West. By utilizing the skills and techniques of the White Tiger, you gain the power of the White Tiger." Byakko flares his Touki to prove his point.

"The nature of my Ki becomes that of the White Tiger, my fingers become its claws, my skin its hide, my body that of the Sacred Beast." He smiles proudly, "Though without being the inheritor of the White Tiger, it's more difficult since the direct connection speeds up the process."

"Theoretically, if you reach the pinnacle of the White Tiger Mystic Art, whether you're the inheritor or not you'd be able to wield the full might of the original White Tiger of the West." He crosses his arms across his chest and looks smug.

While his explanation is cool, it can't be that simple, right? If all it takes is to copy something strong then over history there would've been dozens of lunatics who mimicked Ddraig and slaughtered gods with their martial arts.

"That doesn't explain the method though," I say slowly, "It's the breathing and ki circulation methods that truly make the difference. After all, the actual techniques of your martial arts aren't too different from the one I created mimicking a normal tiger."

Byakko nods happily, "I'm glad you noticed, it'll make explaining easier if you're able to realize that."

"The White Tiger Mystic Art is called such because it can't be considered a 'pure' martial art." Byakko confesses, "From an academic standpoint, martial arts are divided into Inner or Outer arts which are powered by Ki or Force respectively."

He mentioned those terms before when discussing my Body Refinement and I get the gist of the meaning. Inner arts would be those that use Ki to generate the majority of the effect while Outer arts would use physical power instead. Like the difference between a hit from a normal punch or projected Ki.

"The White Tiger Mystic Art, on the other hand, uses Ki as a vessel to hold something more powerful, the divinity of the White Tiger. The breathing technique draws in the divinity and the circulation method combines it with your Ki." His explanation gave me insights I had been missing before.

From this new information, multiple answers about the nature of Touki and its variations become clear. If normal Touki is the manifestation of Fighting Spirit, the White Tiger Mystic Art manifests the divine aura of the White Tiger. This means that the red Touki I used to fight my ancestor, was a manifested aura of rage and slaughter. The precursor to my aborted apotheosis into a Kijin, and a form of divinity.

With that revelation pushed aside, I focus on Byakko again, "That is why you mustn't be caught using the technique. It isn't just because it is a secret of the Shinra clan, it's a spiritual connection to both the Sacred Beast which defends us, and the Kami we worship."

I mull that over with a frown. If it's a religious matter it makes sense it would be a touchy issue.

"So would you rather I not use it at all?" I ask hesitantly.

While it would be a large loss for me to give up the technique, I can still use what I've learned from it to create something original.

Byakko waves my question off with a laugh, "No no! Well, not completely. Like I said earlier, we can modify it."

"We just have to rework the breathing and circulation methods so that the parts that accumulate the White Tiger's divinity and incorporate it with your Ki no longer function the same. I'm sure we can create something new without a massive loss in effectiveness compared to the original." Byakko seems excited and optimistic about the undertaking so I see no reason to object.

"I'll be in your care then." I rub the back of my neck and give him a wide smile.

"Great! Let's start with the breathing technique…"

After an hour of slowly altering the breathing technique together and trying to account for the differences between human and oni biology, we shifted over to working out.

Altering a foundational technique with such a long history will take some time and Byakko did originally ask to hang out, not strictly for business. So after we got a start on that, we vibed.

Byakko threw on some music and showed me how to use all the equipment. He demonstrated what everything was for and the proper technique; then I had a go with each exercise.

Despite it sounding boring, I had fun.

Since the seals on the equipment adjusted to the strength of the user, every exercise was challenging. Not only that, even when we used Touki to enhance ourselves they adjusted to that too. It's an incredible feeling to push myself physically outside a fight to the death and just revel in the powerful physique I've cultivated.

With Byakko there working out with me, there was another motivator too. Seeing him pushing himself with each exercise meant that I couldn't just do the bare minimum. I would feel embarrassed if I didn't try my hardest.

Yet we both encouraged each other as well, cheering each other on as we reached our limits to squeeze out a couple more reps.

During rests, we would trade jokes and barbs, keeping our spirits up.

The breaks were necessary too because I was breaking a sweat, something that came as a shock when I noticed it. In a battle where I'm giving my all, I expect to sweat a bit, but outside that I haven't worked up a sweat in years. I thought my body quite literally transcended the need for heat regulation from something as mundane as exercise a while ago. Apparently, I just wasn't trying hard enough.

The breaks also gave me time to snap a few pictures and send them to Suzaku while the pump was still fresh. I was definitely feeling the pics, so hopefully, she enjoys them.

With our cool-down finished, it's pretty much time for me to head out.

I feel awkward though, with Byakko helping me modify his family's techniques so I can use them in public without any issues, I'm getting more out of this than he is. Sure, he seemed like he was having as much fun hanging out as I did but I don't want to leave things like that. There was one thing I noticed as we were working out that I could help Byakko with.

As he exhausted his Ki, it didn't seem like he could draw in and purify Ki from the environment in large quantities. If he can only slowly refill his reserves through a breathing technique then I might be able to help him as well.

"Hey Byakko, stay still for a second," I call to him as I stand up from the bench and walk over to him.

He raises a brow but otherwise doesn't question the request. Grinning, I circle behind where he's sitting and place my hands on his shoulders.

"Not that I'm ungrateful, there are staff members in the main building if I wanted a shoulder massage." I roll my eyes at the attempt at banter.

With a dry tone, I shoot that down, "As if, just focus on your breathing technique while I teach you something."

He chuckles but does as I ask. Meanwhile, I focus on the flow of Ki in the area caused by his technique and intervene, explaining what I'm doing at the same time, "The flow of Ki and purification that your breathing technique executes is something that can be done through your will alone. To do that you need a sharp Ki sense but for now, I will do the process for you."

"Draw in the Ki from around you, from all directions, towards your core. As the Ki flows inward, focus the negative energy and begin to separate it. By the time the energy reaches your core, a portion should be completely pure and ready to be incorporated into your reserves." Byakko has begun to sweat from the process but is fully focused now.

"Take the portion that still contains the negative energy now, and circulate it through your body, slowly purifying it. This can be done with your natural reserves of Ki but you can't do it within your core. That's how you avoid any corruptive influence." Byakko nods and follows my instructions to surprising effect.

The Ki he has cultivated which contains the divinity of the White Tiger is extremely effective at eradicating negative energy. By the time he's made two circulations of the Ki through his body, it's already purified. He begins to draw the purified energy to his core again to incorporate into his reserves when I click my tongue.

"No, you have to release that." I tug the energy out of his grip and push it outwards.

Of course, if he resisted I wouldn't be able to interact with his Ki like this but from the surprise in his aura, he is too off balance to even try to hold onto the energy. As it disperses back into the grasp of nature.

"What was that about?" Byakko asks gasping for air.

I let go of him and shrug awkwardly, "I'm going to teach you how to properly accumulate Ki. If you're going to be my workout partner, you need to be able to keep up."

He barks out a sharp laugh in response, "Dude, you don't need to trade me a technique. This wasn't meant to be a transaction."

I growl back while crossing my arms, "Shut up and thank me rather than arguing. I like having strong friends and this will help you keep up with me. As long as you have a little talent you should be able to grasp properly sensing Ki after a few lessons."

"Do you want me to shut up or thank you?" He asks cheekily and I shove him in retaliation.

"Catch you later, Byakko. Hit me up next time you want to hang out." I lazily wave over my shoulder as I walk away.

"Don't be a stranger," he calls back.

I close the door behind me and wind my way through the gym again, slipping my hoodie back on as I walk. It's less crowded in here now, though still quite busy.

Either way, I mostly space out till the exit trying to decide where I want to go next today. Going back home and grabbing a shower is a must but beyond that, I'm not sure.

I probably shouldn't double-dip on more physical training today meaning more spiritual training might be good. Or, I could relax some; go shopping, grab something to eat, maybe see if Suzaku is free.

I exit the gym lost in my thoughts, only to be jolted out of them by a voice that raises my hackles, "I heard you wanted to get a hold of me."

I lash out instinctually with a punch, only to feel a lurch and find myself staring up at the sky from the sidewalk. Worse, Susanoo's smug face is staring down at me blocking the sun.

"Bit of a violent response for someone who wanted to speak to me." He drawls, still holding my wrist after the throw he executed.

"Sorry, the upswell of disgust from hearing your voice triggered that reaction. Mind letting go?" I snark back, picking myself up when he laughs and steps backward.

"You're lucky I find you interesting. I normally don't allow insults like that from my minions." He warns casually wiping his hand off against his side.

Despite his casual words, however, there's a sharpness behind his eyes that tells me his statement was a warning.

I grumble but shift the topic rather than push further, "Thanks for coming so quickly."

"You're welcome!" He smiles widely, "Isn't that easier?"

I sigh and barrel onward rather than allowing him to drag me into his games, "I wanted to ask if you have any interest in joining Yasaka, the Shinra clan, and me in negotiations with the Devils for the return of a political hostage."

"Oh, I know. I quite enjoyed watching you and your friends storm Miss Shax's compound." He flashes a thumbs up, "Very entertaining."

My annoyance continues to rise and I mentally cross off anything draining from my plans for the rest of the day. I'm going to want to just sleep and forget about this interaction once I'm done.

"Is that a yes or no?" I question flatly to the annoyance of a god across from me.

He strokes his beard and purses his lips, "It could be fun. I haven't spoken to Serafall in a while either."

He reaches over and ruffles my hair between my horns and smiles, "Sure, count me in, little minion."

"Great." I grouse ducking my head downward to resist attacking him.

Still, I allow him his moment of fun. One day, one day I will repay him for every indignity I've suffered.

"Thank you, Ibaraki." Susanoo says suddenly and so earnestly that I get tonal whiplash.

My neck snaps upward to look at him in surprise but I'm met with an empty sidewalk and a warm breeze.

"You didn't need to continue being a friend to my mother after leaving Yomi. You could've simply put that all behind you and never thought of her again till your death. I won't forget that." The breeze whispers as it fades away.