Asuka Kazama: The Fierce Protector by Jade Gretz
The humid air clung to Asuka Kazama like a second skin as she stepped off the rickety seaplane onto the glistening black sand of Asura Island. The sun, a malevolent red orb sinking towards the horizon, cast long, grotesque shadows across the volcanic rock formations that dominated the island's landscape. This wasn't your typical beach vacation. This was the location of the Ryuujin Invitational, a clandestine fighting tournament shrouded in rumors and whispers.
Asuka, her fiery red hair pulled back in a tight ponytail, adjusted the straps of her EVA Unit-02 plugsuit, a stark contrast to the lush green jungle that stretched inland. Misato Katsuragi, ever the concerned guardian, had voiced her disapproval of the entire operation. But Asuka, ever the thrill-seeker and desperate to prove herself, had ignored her pleas. This tournament, with its promise of facing legendary fighters, was an opportunity too good to pass up.
A wiry old man with a weathered face and eyes that seemed to hold the secrets of the island materialized from the shadows. He wore a worn kimono, a single katana strapped to his side. This, Asuka presumed, was her contact – the enigmatic Ryuujin, the organizer of the tournament.
"Asuka Kazama," the old man rasped, his voice like dry leaves rustling in the wind. "You've come a long way for a simple fight."
Asuka, never one to back down from a challenge, met his gaze head-on. "Simple? This tournament gathers the best fighters in the world. It won't be simple."
Ryuujin chuckled, a dry, humorless sound. "Indeed. But strength is only one facet of this competition, young one. Here, on Asura Island, you will face not just flesh and bone, but the shadows that lurk in the human heart."
Asuka's brow furrowed. What did he mean by shadows? Before she could ask, Ryuujin gestured towards a group of figures emerging from the jungle. Five other fighters, their faces shrouded in darkness due to the approaching dusk, stood before her.
An electric sense of anticipation crackled in the air. These weren't your average opponents. Each carried an a …(see the rest of the story at deviantart.com/jadegretzAI). For more supergirl, chun li, batgirl, tifa, lara croft, wonder woman, rogue and much more, please visit my page at www.deviantart.com/jadegretzai - Thanks for your support :)
