Chapter 220: Stakes I
In the end, it was Kazi who emerged victorious. Seconds passed, the king remaining captured, several pieces surrounding it. The Eternal Emperor blinked thrice. Total annihilation. "Huh." His expression was full of surprise. This was an outcome the Eternal Emperor did not anticipate.
"Was it enjoyable?" Kazi asked.
Slowly, Emperor Toru replied, "I have not lost a game of shogi in three hundred years."
Kazi refused to let surprise colour his face. ’Three hundred years...? That’s one hell of a win streak.’
The Eternal Emperor hummed, index and thumb stroking his smooth chin. A smile worked its way on him and his sun-dipped eyes shimmered. He had brought Kazi inside as a way to pass the time. He would play and joke and clown on him until he was satisfied and send him on his way. That was what the Eternal Emperor always did—unless the jester gained his genuine interest. He eyed the brown man with the intensity of the sun, contemplating his next move. His whimsical nature went hand-in-hand with his generosity. The more entertaining he was, the more he was to negotiations.
Kazi was one step closer to his goal.
"Let us play another game," the Eternal Emperor suggested. Kazi opened his mouth to accept but he was too slow.
Snap!
Something enveloped him—something soft and malleable—and the colour around him changed. The smell of flowers dissipated, replaced by a hot, musty odor and the viewpoint became darker and full. There were grunts and yells and he suddenly found himself in the courtyard. The sounds of clashing swords and grunts of exertion assaulted his bearing. The courtyard was expansive, with well-manicured gardens bordering the perimeter and elegant architecture.