Amidst the tense faceoff, a sudden shift occurred as Haku Naoto, captain of the eight rank squad, broke into a warm smile.
Ukichi returned the smile, and the tension dissolved as they embraced each other.
The rest of the squads followed suit, exchanging embraces.
With a warm smile, Haku Naoto extended his wishes, "Best of luck on your first mission."
Ukichi expressed his gratitude, "Thank you. Are you and your squad heading somewhere too?"
Haku shook his head in denial, "Nope, we're just here to bid you farewell."
Kenshin, the Vice-captain of the eight rank squad, chimed in with a playful reminder, "Hey guys, make sure you all make it back, especially you, Kageru. Our race to the throne isn't going to end like this."
Kageru's smile radiated confidence as he replied, "We'll return, and mark my words, one day I'll ascend to the throne of Sugiyama."
Kenshin grinned in response, "In your dreams, Kageru. I'll seize the throne before you have the chance." Their exchange was filled with friendly rivalry,
Itsu Ogata, the third member, offered his well-wishes, "May your journey remain safe and unharmed."
Yasuo Shiro, the fourth member, added, "Come back soon so we can train together again." The Minamoto squad smiled and nodded, acknowledging the sentiment.
Suddenly, Hana and Kasumi, siblings, came bounding towards them, with Hana's voice ringing out, "Brothers, brothers!"
The Minamoto squad turned their attention towards her and knelt down in front of her.
Hana stood before them, holding out handmade lucky charms adorned with each of their names.
"I made these for my brothers," she announced with a beaming smile. "One for Big Brother Ukichi, one for Brother Hiroto, one for Brother Kageru, and one for Brother Uzin."
Each member of the Minamoto squad accepted their respective charm with gratitude, their smiles reflecting the warmth of Hana's gesture.
With a tender smile, Hana revealed another charm and spoke softly, "And this one's for me, with everyone's name on it, It symbolizes our unbreakable bond, even when we're apart. These charms will keep us connected, a promise of always being together."
The Minamoto's fought to contain their emotions as Hana's heartfelt words resonated deeply within them.
Tears welled in the eyes of Mr. Minoru Kasumi and Mr. Kazou as they watched the touching scene.
Hana leaped into Ukichi and Uzin's arms, enveloping them in a tight embrace. They returned her hug with equal warmth, tears silently streaming down their cheeks.
Next, Hana embraced Hiroto and Kageru, and their eyes glistened with unshed tears. Ukichi and Uzin quickly wiped away their tears, masking their emotions with smiles as they tried to hide their tears from Hana.
As Hana released them from her embrace, her smile remained pure as she spoke, "Goodbye, brothers. I'll be praying for your victory"
With a swift motion, Minamotos rose to their feet, turning away from her, and began making their way towards their waiting horses.
As Hiroto, Kageru, and Uzin swiftly mounted their horses, Ukichi paused. His gaze turned on Haku Naoto.
Approaching Haku, Ukichi stood before him with a solemn expression. Placing a hand on Haku's shoulder, Ukichi spoke softly, "Haku, I have one request. If we don't come back, please look after Hana and Mr. Minoru for me."
Haku offered a gentle smile as he placed his hand on top of Ukichi's hand which was on his shoulder, a silent gesture of support.
Quickly wiping away his tears, Ukichi swiftly mounted his horse, ready to embark on their journey.
As the squad's gaze fell upon the grand gate of the Kingdom, Ukichi's voice rang out, commanding, "Charge!" With that, their horses surged forward, carrying them away from their loved ones as they set off on their journey.
Hana dashed after them, her voice echoing in the distance, "Brothers, come back soon! I'll be waiting eagerly. Goodbye!" Her smile was bright as she waved, while the squad rode off, tears tracing silent paths down their cheeks as they departed from the kingdom…
The Last Heirs of Minamoto journeyed for hours until they arrived at Kei Kingdom.
Riding towards Kei Castle, they drew the attention of everyone in the kingdom, sparking murmurs and speculation.
As they entered the grand halls of Kei Castle, the squad stood before the Kei King, their posture erect and respectful, offering a gesture of greeting by placing their fists over their hearts.
Ukichi's began aloud, "We are the Nineth Rank assassins of Sugiyama Kingdom and we-"
"Ah, the failed Minamoto's, aren't you?" The Kei King's interruption cut through the air.
The squad bristled at the remark, with Kageru visibly angered.
Smiling teasingly, the Kei King continued with a mocking tone, "So, what brings you here, kids? Have you lost your way?"
Ukichi's response was firm, "We are here on a mission assigned by the King of Sugiyama to eliminate the Fujis."
The declaration elicited laughter from all the nobles gathered in the castle, including from King Kei himself.
The Minamoto's frustration grew, controlling their anger within them.
"Assigned to kill the Fujis?" Kei King continued to taunt them, "Has King Sugiyama lost his senses?" he jeered. "Even Wrath users couldn't kill them, and he has send wrathless trash to do the job?"
"Apologies for the interruption, but that's the truth." Kageru's voice cut through the mockery, silencing all laughter.
Uzin maintained a composed smile as he spoke, "We would greatly appreciate any information you could share regarding Fuji's."
Hiroto, with unwavering confidence added, "And If you're not willing to share their information then we'll manage just fine on our own. We don't need your information or assistance."
Enraged, the Kei King bellowed, "You insignificant assassins! How dare you address me in such a manner?"
"Cut off their heads Off!" His command to the warriors was swift and brutal.
As the warriors advanced, drawing their swords menacingly.
Kageru's hand moved towards his blade, beginning to draw his sword from his scabbard.
"No, Kageru, don't!" Ukichi's urgent shout echoed through the tension, causing Kageru to halt in his motion. Yet, the warriors continued their relentless approach, their blades aimed perilously at the Minamoto's necks.