Chapter 5: Chapter 4 – The Aftermath
Ask yourself the following question: How would you define evil?
I imagine you'd cite a comprehensive list comprising: Merciless dictators, infamous serial killers or possibly even corrupt governments and organisations, however is anything, (or indeed anyone) inherently evil? Did those seemingly evil personalities begin their lives as soulless reincarnations of a Luciferian devil? Humans are born from light; whatever faith, spiritual or intellectual understanding you align yourself towards, "Light" remains an eternally existent entity, slowly diminishing within the venomous and unrelenting darkness. Darkness births within the light, however the light will never truly be extinguished, inevitably returning to maintain balance in this infinitely wondrous universe within which we reside.
Perhaps this is why I remain ever hesitant, unable to castigate those abundantly dark individuals in spite of hasty outcries telling me otherwise. My beliefs never overstep the boundaries into altruism, however a belief in morality and the potential for good to overcome evil can't be wrong. In similar fashion to Oskar Schindler's noble quest, the dangers remain ever-present and yet for now my resolve remains unwavering. However, every human has a breaking point, as a great man once said:
"Either die a hero, or live long enough to see yourself become the villain."
Therefore, the question remains: How much more can I possibly endure before finally falling head-first over the edge??
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"Miss Marcien-san, your timing has been almost a tenth of a second slower than usual. I believe this session would prove more beneficial at a later date."
Sienna Marcien's pent up frustration was released with one final exasperated cry, her right ankle connecting firmly with the bottom of the large red boxing bag held by her trainer Komugi. Regardless of how much power or weight she threw behind her punches or kicks; the bag remained permanently immovable, as if being held steadfast by plates forged of reinforced diamond.
"Komugi, I see you maintain your stubbornness in refusing to refer to me on a first name basis. Your uncompromising dedication towards your Japanese heritage remains truly remarkable…. Also please forgive my unusual lack of effort…. I'm still... Somewhat in disbelief."
"Perfectly understandable Miss Marcien-san. The steam room has been prepared for your immediate use; I shall now humbly proceed to take my leave." Absolute efficiency, never wasting even a single Joule of energy for a menial day-to-day occurrence such as frivolous small talk. Komugi Itawabi was Japanese ex secret service, hired to personally hone the fighting abilities of the elite warriors within the SoL. Bowing his head in typically polite fashion, Komugi silently exited the 12 ft by 12 ft matted sparring-room, providing the Portuguese beauty some solitary privacy in order to recover.
Dressed in a pulsating skin-tight black vest and matching shorts; Sienna glanced down towards the 2 tiny puddles of sweat collecting in extremely unfeminine fashion directly below her tape-strapped hands. As is habit amongst soldiers requiring momentary thinking time; Sienna's eyes glossed over whilst involuntarily clenching and unclenching her fist, before proceeding to rip the tape off her hands and wipe any remaining sweat onto the side of her vest.
"Ami….. If only… I was there… Maybe… Things could have been different." Whispering under her breath; Sienna's words lacked conviction, tainted by feelings of despondency and regret. Wishes to reverse the flow of time, stem from self-destructive feelings of helplessness, inevitably culminating in a never-ending cycle of negativity. However, being a veteran within the SoL meant acting as a role model for the new recruits. Having joined the SoL as an eager yet reckless youth at the sprightly age of 24; 6 years down the line and her refusal to publicly display emotion highlighted not only her resolute strength of character but furthermore, the astonishing rate of development in her maturity, fondly admired by both superiors and juniors alike.
With a small reminiscent shake of her head and an extremely weary sigh; Sienna trundled into the women's changing room, carefully stripping off her clothes and undergarments before scrutinising the bruising she'd come to expect from a typically intense Komugi training session. Content with the acceptable levels of damage, (whilst also stealing a few customary glances towards her famously pert behind), Sienna proceeded to wrap the cosy lavender-scented towel around her naturally tanned skin, paying careful attention to cover anything which could potentially have her labelled as an exhibitionist.
The recently-built, state of the art WFA facility was situated deep within the heart of Tokyo, Japan; on account of being co-funded by numerous governments around the world, its resources were virtually limitless. Therefore, it's only fitting that in-house facilities, (in particular for members of the cherished SoL) would be the utmost premium. The gym, sparring mats, swimming pool, tennis courts and boxing ring were available for either gender. However, each gender-specific changing room contained multiple showers, a jacuzzi, sauna and steam room, whilst physiotherapists and massage therapists were available around the clock. Personal entertainment facilities were also readily available comprising: A cinema, bar, skating rink, arcade room and karaoke room. Finally, nutritional provisions were comparative to 5-star Michelin quality; world-renowned chefs working 24 hours a day to provide irresistible palates, with careful consideration towards dietary and nutrient requirements.
Slight detour in narrative notwithstanding; Sienna wrapped her fingers firmly around the large brushed-metal handle of the steam-room door before proceeding to open the door, immediately finding herself enveloped in a thick plume of steam forcing a hasty aversion of her gaze.
"You're letting all the steam out, hurry inside and close the door."
Being caught unaware twice in the space of roughly 30 seconds was generally unheard of for the fastidiously alert veteran; Komugi's constant reminders towards maintaining a professional and emotional balance began feeling increasingly important. Subsequently the origin of the emotionless voice ordering Sienna to close the door was never in doubt. The harshness of tone, outright refusal to address Sienna by name and (most importantly), the overarching arrogance, could only be attributed to a single, (slightly intolerable) female. Her inherent talents and polished techniques were undeniable, her ruthless efficiency second only to the hardened warrior, Komugi Itawabi.
Unquestionably the most powerful remaining member within the SoL, (after Felicity's less than glamorous departure): The self-proclaimed Flame Princess, Rea Kazuki.
Weekly Power Status
-- Power
Ranking 
-- Power
stone