The Champion and His Illusion
by Clarence B. Panopio
Hailing from a dojo in Itomori, Kentai stands as the final samurai capable of wielding a blade from his once illustrious training ground. An orphan taken in by the dojo, he spent his life under the tutelage of the samurai masters, only to witness their downfall due to a debilitating sickness that left all but one bedridden.
Despite the master's weakened state preventing him from active combat, he imparted to Kentai the specialized moves unique to the Itomori dojo. By the time Kentai turned 17, he had mastered these techniques and, driven by gratitude, embarked on a journey to participate in a competition, aiming to honor his dojo's legacy.
His master, sensing his own imminent fading away, chose to accompany Kentai on this journey. As they ventured out, Kentai, having left the dojo for the first time, marveled at the world around him. In one town, they encountered the shrine maiden of Itomori performing a harvest ritual. Kentai, captivated by her beauty, found himself unable to move, contemplating a future where he might seek her hand in marriage.
Motivated by this newfound purpose, Kentai and his master continued their travels, seeking samurai competitions across the country. Upon reaching Kyoto, they discovered a week-long tournament among the strongest samurais about to commence.
Kentai, fueled by excitement, entered the competition, making it through the elimination rounds with ease. However, witnessing the prowess of other contenders left him nervous, and his anxiety heightened when he realized his master had not entered the competition venue. Despite the worry clouding his mind, Kentai advanced through the rounds, reaching the final with a mix of skill and determination.
In the decisive battle, Kentai faced a formidable opponent, and fear crept into his expression. Yet, he rallied, overcoming his anxiety and securing victory. Tears welled in his eyes as he wept with overwhelming emotion, realizing the significance of his achievement.
When asked for his name, Kentai proudly declared, "Kentai, Sir. From the Itomori Dojo." The revelation stunned the crowd and even the master, as they believed everyone from the Itomori dojo had perished due to a rival dojo's poisoning.
Returning to his hometown, Kentai shared his triumph with the shrine maiden, expressing his wish to marry her. Their union brought happiness to the town of Itomori, unbeknownst to Kentai that a goblin had accompanied him from the dojo to the competition.
Now, the benevolent goblin, having helped fill Kentai's once-empty heart, stands ready to aid another soul in finding their way back up from the depths of despair.
The End