The Fox Hunting Tiger

As the sun broke free of the night, the various sounds of Rider City echoed throughout the air; cars, people, and even animals seemed to be lively. Though, in a rather lonely section of the city, there stood a male. His surroundings were bare, but the light did not neglect him – it shined down without prejudice. He was not of this world, but he didn't seem to care. Perhaps it was the city landscape, or the twilight that occupied the sky, but the feeling of peace was evident upon his face. The golden, flaxen irises he possessed stared off into the distance, and his pastel lips curled to form a toothy grin – a look of happiness. The day had just begin, but he seemed to be enjoying what little had already come to pass.

"I suppose, it was a good idea to return in the wake of a new day. Don't you think, Kojin?" The male spoke, his voice soft yet resilient. There was nobody around him, therefor he spoke to no one. Though, the lack of an audience did nothing to his confidence; his lips continued to part, forming words eagerly. "I've learned quite a bit, don't you think? I'm sure I can live up to their expectations now." A spark ignited within him, his voice thickening as it turned from a whisper to a roar. It was as if his spirit, much like Rider City, was beginning to wake up.

"I have a problem with talking too much, Kojin. So. . . perhaps I should just head out, huh?" The male would speak again, his eyes drifting from left to right; he was restless. Though, he knew patience was what he needed. As such, he remained calm – his composure instead solidified by his enthusiasm. He had but one goal, and there was but one way to adhere to it. It was in this instant, as this realization dawned upon him, that a black rift opened up before him. He did not flinch, nor did he question the rift's availability. Instead, he simply stepped into it – his body transported instantly to the spiritual realm.

The journey wasn't but a few seconds, but Kōsa took the time to compose himself. How long had it been since he had seen his master? Five months? Six? To be honest, he hadn't really kept count – his mind was preoccupied. As such, when the rift opened before an estate, a look of nostalgia occupied his face. Who would answer the door? Would it be Kuniharu, his master? Perhaps it would be Seireitou, or Minato – the powerful student-teacher duo. Whomever it was, Kōsa intended to greet them with a smile.