【Beginning】
Not unlike Humans, Tengus are social creatures with the inherent social hierarchy. The more powerful Tengus have a higher place in the system. The ones at the top would be titled “Ootengu”, and there were the individuals who would also be able to compete for the head of the clan. Therefore, whenever the clan head nears retirement, the young Tengus would be unusually nervous.
The reigning head was benevolent and powerful, prompting extra expectations for his three sons...His elder son possessed a strong physique; his second son excelled in myriad youkai-jutsu; but his youngest son was neither as strong as the eldest, nor as clever as the second. Hence, he became the black sheep of the family.
Both in his family and in the outside world, Karasutengu was the bullied. Gradually, he lost faith in himself, questioning the purpose of his very existence. He gave up on himself in despair, and regardless of who tried, none were able to persuade him to leave his room. One morning, his father could no longer stand seeing him like this and opened Karasutengu’s doors, dragging him onto the training ground.
【Before Battles】
- Karasutengu: What are you doing? Let me go!
【Enemy Dialog】
- Father: Lift your sword. Attack me!
- Karasutengu: What is the point? I am not like my brothers. I am no match for you, and you...
- Father: I say again. Lift your sword!
【End】
No matter how Karasutengu attacked, his father stood unfazed, as durable as a mountain. On the contrary, Karasutengu was left panting. The audience all ridiculed the child; he felt humiliated and hence, angrily hurled his sword onto the ground and left without looking back.
Karasutengu ran to the back of the mountain, his only shelter. Animals here were close to him and he could feel his value only when staying with them. He frolicked with the animals; patting their warm and soft body soothed his heart. Just then, a giant shadow blocked out the sun. The animals were frightened off, leaving only Karasutengu alone, lifting his head and staring at the source of the shadow.
- Karasutengu: Father? How did you know I am here?
- Father: I noticed that you like to come here when you are upset.
- Karasutengu: Sorry, father. I have disappointed you.
- Father: Yes, you have. But not because of your weak strength or under-developed youkai-jutsu, but because you give up easily.
- Father: A strong body, profound knowledge of youkai-jutsu. All these can be attained through hard work, but...
- Father: ...Benevolence and virtues cannot be trained. Yet, this empathy is inherent within you..
- Karasutengu: Do you mean if I train hard, I will be able to look after everyone like you?
His father nodded, and a smile finally spread across Karasutengu’s face. He had always thought himself replaceable, never knowing his father had such high hopes in him. Since then, Karasutengu trained his body and studied youkai-jutsu harder than others. He also kept in mind his father’s doctrine — empathize with others.