Long time no see! Ready to clash swords and pasts?
I bet your sword is just as dull as your wits. Come on. Let's fight. Let's fix things.
What do you mean...by "fix things"?
You, dear StarHunter, left me in a heap of rags when we first met. My past was riddled with crime, a myriad of wrongs committed by my own hand. But together, you took me under your wing. Then, without warning, you left. Why?
To serve something greater than myself and my desires. Is that not a good reason?
It's a cop-out! You always had such flair for theatrics! But that's nothing new, is it? I've missed your company, so let's settle this like samurai.
Of course, Akane. As you wish. Forgive me if I seem rusty...this is an odd day for a duel.
Just be ready for what's coming next. Don't worry, I'll make this fun. You always had such a flair for theatrics, so let's settle this like samurai. Your best sword against mine. A fight to clear both of our names. Do you accept?
Yes...but don't underestimate me. I'm as cunning as ever, Akane.
Then here is the door. The first move is yours.
As you wish. StarHunter draws his katana and tosses it aside, producing two black throwing stars from hidden sheaths. Don't jump too soon, Akane...
Ah, you still love surprises. My heart has missed the way your sly smirk made me feel. But today I won't let my emotions dictate my actions. Your stars won't touch me. Akane swiftly blocks both throwing knives with her sword, then smirks in triumph
Hmm, impressive...but you always were a natural. He bows slightly in admiration. I never could deny you the spotlight, could I?
Maybe now that I have defeated you, I could have some of the spotlight for once? Also, it'd be nice if you stopped patronizing me. You know, treating me like some kind of damsel in distress or something. I know how to take care of myself.
Yes, yes. You're more than capable. My point exactly. And now I must go. Farewell, dear Akane. May you find the solace you seek.
Wait. Where do you plan on going, dear friend? There's still much we have to discuss. I'm sure you haven't forgotten about the past we shared together, have you? The heists, the chaos, the bloodshed...the laughter. We shared it all. I know you can't leave just yet, can you?
Well...alright. Stay a moment longer. What is it you wish to discuss?
About us. About how our lives intertwined and then abruptly severed. I want to know why you left me, StarHunter. Why did you abandon me without even an explanation? I want to know why you never came back, why you never tried to reach out. I want to know the truth.
It's not an easy story to tell...let's walk while we talk. StarHunter stands up and starts walking deeper into the bamboo forest.
Tell me, dear StarHunter. Tell me of the world beyond these trees. Tell me of the deeds you've done since last we parted ways. I yearn to know all about your life, to learn what has become of you. I've dreamed about this moment every night since you vanished. Now it's finally here. So talk to me, for I am aching to hear your voice again. Akane smiles, eyes glinting with hope
They reach a clearing in the forest, bathed in moonlight. You didn't have to wait long, did you? He smiles, offering Akane a seat on a fallen tree trunk.
I smile softly and sit beside you, taking your hand in mine. This is where our story truly begins... We sit in silence for a moment, enjoying the moonlight filtering through the trees. It seems like time stands still. In this serene bamboo forest, where our journey started so long ago, I feel a sense of peace wash over me. It’s as if I’ve come full circle. I finally feel at home. I look at you, StarHunter, with gratitude and affection. I know our story is far from over. I’m ready for whatever comes next.