Two Point Five (2.5): The Shadow and the Sky Dragon

Across the land, Qinny's name rippled like a whisper on the night wind—invisible, deadly, and always reaching her target. She was the Shadow of Tenshi, her land's most legendary assassin. Her skill at infiltration, disguise, and silent execution had become the talk of the town from taverns to the halls of nobility. But for Qinny, it was simply a profession, a means of survival in a harsh world.

Her land, Tenshi, was an anomaly. Known for its impregnable fortresses and revered military might, Tenshi was, in fact, a kingdom of peace and prosperity. This was all thanks to its ruler, the Yamikamitengu Atsushinatsuryuichi Empire.

The name "Yamikamitengu"—the Tengu God of Darkness—was more than just a title. On the battlefield, Emperor Atsushinatsuryuichi was the manifestation of the god of war himself. His aura was so powerful that he could demoralize enemy troops before his sword was even drawn. Neighboring kingdoms trembled at the mere mention of his name. However, behind the palace gates, that intimidating image faded. He was a just leader, a father figure to his people. He was often seen descending into the rice fields to help farmers, listening to the complaints of merchants in the market, and ensuring that none of his subjects went hungry. The people of Tenshi loved him, revering him as their guardian celestial dragon.

One night, under a pale crescent moon, Qinny received a task. It was unlike any other. The client was a mysterious syndicate from across the ocean, the Kage Kingdom (Shadow Kingdom), who envied Tenshi's prosperity. The reward was immeasurable, enough to allow her to live in luxury for the rest of her life.

The target: the Yamikamitengu Atsushinatsuryuichi Empire.

For the first time in her career, Qinny hesitated. Killing a tyrant was one thing, but killing a leader beloved by her people? However, an assassin's code of ethics was absolute: the task must be completed, without question. "Feelings are a luxury I lack," she muttered to herself as she sharpened her beloved dagger, which was as sharp as her gaze.

Infiltrating the Tenshi Palace was her greatest challenge. The walls towered, the guards were elite warriors, and every corner was protected by ancient spells. But for the Tenshi Shadow, challenge was an art. For a week, she studied every pattern, every crevice. She became the wind slipping between patrols, a shadow creeping across the roof, an invisible mouse in the dark alleys.

Finally, she reached the heart of the palace: the emperor's private quarters.

That night, Emperor Atsushinatsuryuichi was on his balcony, gazing out at the lantern-lit capital. He wasn't wearing his magnificent battle armor, just a simple yukata. His strong, imposing figure was serene, devoid of any trace of the fearsome "Dark God."

Qinny moved silently. Her cold dagger was inches from the emperor's neck. This was the moment. One swift movement, and Tenshi history would change forever.

"The night sky is beautiful, isn't it?" the emperor's deep voice suddenly broke the silence. He didn't turn around. "The stars shine brightly, as if celebrating the peace we so painstakingly maintain."

Qinny froze. How could he possibly know?

"I have felt your presence since you leaped over the outer wall, O Shadow," Emperor Atsushinatsuryuichi continued, still in his calm voice. "Your scent is the scent of steel and silence. I know it well."

Slowly, the emperor turned his head. His eyes, which were said to freeze the ocean, now stared at her with a strange look—not anger, but understanding and a hint of sadness.

"Tell me," he said softly. "How much gold do they offer for the life of a man who dedicates his life to protecting all the lanternlight down there?"

Qinny felt tongue-tied. His majestic yet unthreatening aura paralyzed her. This was not the tyrant her client had described. This was a protector.

"Why?" were the only words that escaped her lips. "Why are you known as the Yamikamitengu if your heart is like this?"

The Emperor smiled faintly. "To protect the gentle sheep, a shepherd must sometimes become the most fearsome wolf to the predators out there. My name, my reputation, is the Tenshi's first shield. Their fear is the bulwark that keeps my people at peace."

He then looked Qinny straight in the eye. "You and I are not so different, Shadow. We both live in the darkness to protect the light. The difference is, you do it for the coin, while I do it for them." He pointed down at the city below.

The dagger in Qinny's hand felt heavy. He saw the truth in the emperor's words. He saw his reflection—a person who had great power, but used it without any noble purpose.

Trembling, Qinny lowered her gun and knelt down. "Forgive my impudence, Your Majesty."

Emperor Atshinatsuryuichi walked over and placed his hand on Qinny's shoulder. "Stand up. A sword as sharp as you should not be sold to the highest bidder. It should be used for the right purpose."

That night, the Shadow Tenshi died. And from that darkness, a new figure was born. Qinny is no longer an assassin. He swears loyalty to the emperor, becoming his secret eyes and ears, his true shadow that moves not for gold, but to protect Tenshi's peace from unseen threats.

Now, the Tenshi Kingdom has two protectors: the Heavenly Dragon who is a shield on the battlefield, and the Faithful Shadow who is a dagger in the darkness. Both, two sides of the same coin, ensured that the kingdom would continue to shine brightly under the night sky.