Phoenix
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The accusing questions slowly became inquiries and even insights and suggestions as time went on. Still, others refuted or disagreed with some of these points, but that was the idea of introducing the precepts of Kori no Tate on the first day. It weeded out, for him at least, who might be unable to endure the style and those that showed the promise to keep true to what his idea of combat was really for.
"Life is for living. How you live, where you live, what you live for, and why you are living are largely the same for most everyone. And this 'living' isn't necessarly relevent to the World of the Living. This 'life' I'm talking about is simply existance. We all exist to persist. We want to better ourselves, whether that be through helping others achieve lofty goals or actually reaching those yourself. We exist and then we fade away. We're all needy and superficial, crying for the things we cannot attain ourselves at birth and forever seeking approval of others as our life continues."
Some still couldn't agree with such sweeping "answers" for something so broad. "'Approval' changes from person to person. This can be a lasting impression to merely a smile or even a tear shed by another that was caused by one's self. 'Approval' is both a positive and negative thing, depending upon who's viewing the 'approval.'" He reminded everyone to keep a wide mind and to stretch the meanings of words to what they could mean rather than what they think they mean automatically.
"The reason for the preposition 'for' in the twelfth and fourteenth precepts is to not only keep one's well-being healthy but to do it for the sake of living a comfortable life, in respect to the thirteenth precept. It also has to do with being wary of the choices made on your own behalf as well as the effect it may have on others. This 'pleasantness' will be contagious, given the proper audience. And because of this, Life incorporates everything. Though life is simply for existing, existence should be comfortable for all."
"Life is for living. How you live, where you live, what you live for, and why you are living are largely the same for most everyone. And this 'living' isn't necessarly relevent to the World of the Living. This 'life' I'm talking about is simply existance. We all exist to persist. We want to better ourselves, whether that be through helping others achieve lofty goals or actually reaching those yourself. We exist and then we fade away. We're all needy and superficial, crying for the things we cannot attain ourselves at birth and forever seeking approval of others as our life continues."
Some still couldn't agree with such sweeping "answers" for something so broad. "'Approval' changes from person to person. This can be a lasting impression to merely a smile or even a tear shed by another that was caused by one's self. 'Approval' is both a positive and negative thing, depending upon who's viewing the 'approval.'" He reminded everyone to keep a wide mind and to stretch the meanings of words to what they could mean rather than what they think they mean automatically.
"The reason for the preposition 'for' in the twelfth and fourteenth precepts is to not only keep one's well-being healthy but to do it for the sake of living a comfortable life, in respect to the thirteenth precept. It also has to do with being wary of the choices made on your own behalf as well as the effect it may have on others. This 'pleasantness' will be contagious, given the proper audience. And because of this, Life incorporates everything. Though life is simply for existing, existence should be comfortable for all."
"Very good point. However, I never said conflict is either bad or unhealthy," he said. Of course he was cherry-picking, but it was true. "Still, conflict is for conflict's sake. The only thing to gain from conflict is fatigue, injury, and pain. I do not deny that relief can come from a physical discharge of aggression, but our culture especially encourages aggression. Those who are not willing to listen or understand, going so far as to requiring conflict in order to understand, are not adept at verbal communication. These precepts take into account that our culture is one based on conflict and, thus, requires physical conflict in order to understand the other side. A strict form of communication was not addressed among the precepts, just that it was necessary. How two individuals choose to communicate is up to them. Assuming its through conflict still proves that there is a misunderstanding or an ability to accept. Furthermore, these precepts merely prevent two people from fighting each other to the death for the sake of hoping to understand each other.
"But what about those that wish the end of others, more specifically yourself?" he asked broadly, a sweeping question for the crowd. "Their opinion is that you must die and your instinctual opinion is that you must remain alive. But how should you know that your life is actually beneficial? How do you know that everyone is better off without the other's existance? This is why I've developed Kori no Tate. We don't know for sure what our existance has to offer this realm or any other. We're not entirely sure of the reprecussions we constantly cause by our actions. All we know is that Hollows must die and Pluses must survive in a continued balance for all realms to remain tangible. Because of this uncertainty, simply enduring and defending against another's 'disagreement' is the safest way to ensure that we do not take away from existance what is necessary or keeping an existance that is a hindrance."
Perhaps it went deeper than the children considered possible, but it was around this time that he would hear silence among the crowd. But now was the time to move into the next subject, which was the Soul.
"Everyone is a part of an environment. But how far does that environment stretch? For example, you are all part of the evnironment which is this dojo, but this dojo is part of the district we are currently in. So does that mean our environment is this district? But this district is part of the Rukongai which is further part of the Spirit World. That's a large environment to be a part of.
"And because of each of you is part of the environment, the others around you are part of the environment. Because others are part of this same environment, it's necessary to respect it. You like your environment to be comfortable and safe, so keep it comfortable and safe for others since they are part of the same environment. But what if someone deems the environment too dangerous and must be destroyed? Well, under what authority do they make that claim? What is precisely 'wrong' or 'dangerous' about it and is there a way to amend this?
"Furthermore, how you treat your environment, and even yourself, can and will affect others. How you keep your surroundings impacts the others around you. When you twitch or shift your seating, others are distracted by this, but only for a moment. But this moment was dedicated to you rather than the self. But, then again, others are part of your environment and dedicating some time to others can keep your environment safe and comfortable.
"But the environment doesn't respond without stimuli, and it doesn't produce much of its own. So if we strip down to the fact that the environment changes due to individuals or groups acting as one, then an individual can be considered 'an environment.'"
"But what about those that wish the end of others, more specifically yourself?" he asked broadly, a sweeping question for the crowd. "Their opinion is that you must die and your instinctual opinion is that you must remain alive. But how should you know that your life is actually beneficial? How do you know that everyone is better off without the other's existance? This is why I've developed Kori no Tate. We don't know for sure what our existance has to offer this realm or any other. We're not entirely sure of the reprecussions we constantly cause by our actions. All we know is that Hollows must die and Pluses must survive in a continued balance for all realms to remain tangible. Because of this uncertainty, simply enduring and defending against another's 'disagreement' is the safest way to ensure that we do not take away from existance what is necessary or keeping an existance that is a hindrance."
Perhaps it went deeper than the children considered possible, but it was around this time that he would hear silence among the crowd. But now was the time to move into the next subject, which was the Soul.
"Everyone is a part of an environment. But how far does that environment stretch? For example, you are all part of the evnironment which is this dojo, but this dojo is part of the district we are currently in. So does that mean our environment is this district? But this district is part of the Rukongai which is further part of the Spirit World. That's a large environment to be a part of.
"And because of each of you is part of the environment, the others around you are part of the environment. Because others are part of this same environment, it's necessary to respect it. You like your environment to be comfortable and safe, so keep it comfortable and safe for others since they are part of the same environment. But what if someone deems the environment too dangerous and must be destroyed? Well, under what authority do they make that claim? What is precisely 'wrong' or 'dangerous' about it and is there a way to amend this?
"Furthermore, how you treat your environment, and even yourself, can and will affect others. How you keep your surroundings impacts the others around you. When you twitch or shift your seating, others are distracted by this, but only for a moment. But this moment was dedicated to you rather than the self. But, then again, others are part of your environment and dedicating some time to others can keep your environment safe and comfortable.
"But the environment doesn't respond without stimuli, and it doesn't produce much of its own. So if we strip down to the fact that the environment changes due to individuals or groups acting as one, then an individual can be considered 'an environment.'"
His eyes remained straight ahead as with the boy who spoke out before. Again, his response was cold and quick. "I never said anything about not sharing one's disagreement. Didn't I say 'communication is key'? This is why we must 'be considerate about our disagreements.' They are inevitable. You cannot possibly agree with everything anyone does or believes. Understanding does not mean agreeing. Acceptance does not mean taking their beliefs as your own. It's understanding that they believe something different and accepting the fact that you do not see eye-to-eye."
His responses seemed almost scripted, but his speech remained simple and conversational. It was clear he'd done this countless times before. There were few new questions he'd be asked at this point in his career. Most new questions would come from his shihan, anyway. "And this is why 'Conflict will cease when understanding is met.'"
His neck now twisted for the first time since being up on the platform. He looked across the crowd of new students he'd be teaching. It was clearly already proving difficult for some of the students to handle. Such philosophical precepts in a martial art was largely unheard of, but Akimoto had a very philosophical mind. It was only inevitable that he would merge the two. "Are there any questions? What can I clear up for you?" he asked, insinuating that any questions asked before this point were out-of-turn.
One asked why he would be part of the Gotei and fight Hollows if it was really just a disagreement. He corrected him by clarifying that his style of combat is purely defensive, never striking at the opponent unless out of necessity, which can also be argued. One asked why he would bother fighting if it was below him to which he responded with "combat is not below me. It is part of my duty as a Captain of the Gotei 13. No one organization or government is without its own conflict. We are humans and lash out at cultural taboos other cultures commit. No one has all the answers. Some are unwilling to find them. Because of this, we fight to protect our home and, more importantly, our souls. A shinigami's first duty is to protect and guide pluses into the Rukongai. Hollows are manifestations of pain, anguish, sorrow, and hatred. They still have minds, but they are poisoned. But this topic belongs in the Academy," he cut himself off from his ramblings.
His voice grew softer as the discussion continued.
His responses seemed almost scripted, but his speech remained simple and conversational. It was clear he'd done this countless times before. There were few new questions he'd be asked at this point in his career. Most new questions would come from his shihan, anyway. "And this is why 'Conflict will cease when understanding is met.'"
His neck now twisted for the first time since being up on the platform. He looked across the crowd of new students he'd be teaching. It was clearly already proving difficult for some of the students to handle. Such philosophical precepts in a martial art was largely unheard of, but Akimoto had a very philosophical mind. It was only inevitable that he would merge the two. "Are there any questions? What can I clear up for you?" he asked, insinuating that any questions asked before this point were out-of-turn.
One asked why he would be part of the Gotei and fight Hollows if it was really just a disagreement. He corrected him by clarifying that his style of combat is purely defensive, never striking at the opponent unless out of necessity, which can also be argued. One asked why he would bother fighting if it was below him to which he responded with "combat is not below me. It is part of my duty as a Captain of the Gotei 13. No one organization or government is without its own conflict. We are humans and lash out at cultural taboos other cultures commit. No one has all the answers. Some are unwilling to find them. Because of this, we fight to protect our home and, more importantly, our souls. A shinigami's first duty is to protect and guide pluses into the Rukongai. Hollows are manifestations of pain, anguish, sorrow, and hatred. They still have minds, but they are poisoned. But this topic belongs in the Academy," he cut himself off from his ramblings.
His voice grew softer as the discussion continued.
"You are wrong!" Akimoto-sensei almost screamed back at the boy though did not make eye-contact with him. "Both sides hold a close-mindedness." In one breath, his voice returned to normal. "How do we know the Hollows couldn't organize themselves if we allowed it? Have we not instilled a status quo that creates this conflict and encourages it? How do we know that we are not the ones that are the oppressors? Be honest in your ignorance!"
"But I may be just as wrong. Conflict is best resolved through communication. Understanding comes from words and less from actions. Actions are expressions of beliefs, but misinterpretation can occur. Actions indicate beliefs at that singular moment, but people change. Ideas change and opinions change. We are not without internal evolution. But we are not beyond internal degradation. Because of this, it is best not to 'Strike at contradiction,' whether that be another's hypocrisy or heresy. Learning their intentions and understanding them can stop a conflict from occurring.
"But I may be just as wrong. Conflict is best resolved through communication. Understanding comes from words and less from actions. Actions are expressions of beliefs, but misinterpretation can occur. Actions indicate beliefs at that singular moment, but people change. Ideas change and opinions change. We are not without internal evolution. But we are not beyond internal degradation. Because of this, it is best not to 'Strike at contradiction,' whether that be another's hypocrisy or heresy. Learning their intentions and understanding them can stop a conflict from occurring.
"That statement is what causes wars. It is also an observation. The Gotei has had eight civil wars in its history all because they wanted individual power over others." His voice returned to a normal level, though more authoritative than the beginning. "The Arrancars believe this statement to be true and act upon it. Some of the Noble Houses believe themselves above the Gotei and can use them as means for their own ends.
"The Soul King was not wrong in appointing an organization of thirteen different Divisions each with their own tasks to organize the souls which reside in this realm. He was also not unwise to allow these individuals power in order to combat our natural enemies. But since their is conflict, does this mean there is close-mindedness between these groups? And which side does this close-mindedness come from?"
He paused for another moment though gave no indication that he wanted a student to speak. The shihan stood behind him in a neat line with their hands behind his back. They spoke not a word which somehow made most of the new students follow their example. Of course, there was always one student that lacked the understanding of social cues. "From the Hollows, obviously!" The boy's voice was small even though Akimoto-sensei's elevation was not much higher.
"The Soul King was not wrong in appointing an organization of thirteen different Divisions each with their own tasks to organize the souls which reside in this realm. He was also not unwise to allow these individuals power in order to combat our natural enemies. But since their is conflict, does this mean there is close-mindedness between these groups? And which side does this close-mindedness come from?"
He paused for another moment though gave no indication that he wanted a student to speak. The shihan stood behind him in a neat line with their hands behind his back. They spoke not a word which somehow made most of the new students follow their example. Of course, there was always one student that lacked the understanding of social cues. "From the Hollows, obviously!" The boy's voice was small even though Akimoto-sensei's elevation was not much higher.
It looked more like a palace than a dojo. Dojo's were typically modest and quaint. This building was made from the finest timber and constructed by the finest carpenters. Akimoto helped in its construction, of course. But after the renovation, the feeling of authenticity waned as his classes soon became armies of young men and women working to enter the Academy or simply learn to protect themselves and those they care for most. It certainly wasn't the same building it was almost a millenia ago.
Akimoto-sensei stood atop a shallow stage, his shihan ready demonstrating today's lesson. As a new year was on its way, he was told to start from the teaching the precepts of Kori no Tate and then into the various techniques. Though the first week was about learning twenty precepts about a martial art, this did not make it a slow start into the discipline. Many graduated students would say the most difficult week was the first. To learn the precepts properly, one needed to be them. There was much preparation in becoming those precepts.
"Welcome," the man in the center of the stage greeted the kneeling students. He bowed unnecessarily deeply as did his shihan for the purposes of respect for their sensei. "This is the dojo of Kori no Tate. You will learn how to be a shield of ice. One, that when large and sturdy enough, will be able to withstand anything." His speech was unusually colloquial as well. Did he lack a sense of authority or pride in himself? He was even wearing a white belt, placing himself at the level of the newest students.
"I will start today by teaching you the precepts by which we follow as practitioners of Kori no Tate." He motioned behind him as his shihan pulled some ropes connected to the ceiling of the dojo. The whining of canvas unrolling itself sounded as a large tarp fell to reveal the twenty precepts that they were to learn. Separated into categories, it seemed easy enough to learn.
Precepts of Kori no Tate
MIND
1. Conflict is close-mindedness
2. Be honest in your ignorance
3. Do not strike at contradicitions
4. Be considerate about your disagreements
5. Conflict will cease when understanding is met
SOUL
6. You are part of your environment
7. Others are part of your environment
8. Respect your environment
9. Others are affected by your environment
10. You are your environment
SPIRIT
11. Life is singular
12. Take care for yourself
13. Pleasantness is contagious
14. Take care for others
15. Life is all-encompassing
BODY
16. Mind your body
17. Keep oneself centered
18. Awareness is survival
19. Keep oneself strong
20. Mind your heart
Actually reading them, one might see a large margin of interpretation these precepts allowed. "Conflict is close-mindedness!" He bellowed, his voice changing drastically from his introduction. "The Gotei 13 is a useless organization full of power-hungry individuals seeking self-fulfillment!" The words echoed endlessly throughout the large open room.
He paused a moment to see the reaction among the sea of children before him. Most widened their eyes while others contorted their faces in confusion. A few seemed rightfully angry or upset while a few others seemed accepting of the statement, already believing this statement to be true.
Akimoto-sensei stood atop a shallow stage, his shihan ready demonstrating today's lesson. As a new year was on its way, he was told to start from the teaching the precepts of Kori no Tate and then into the various techniques. Though the first week was about learning twenty precepts about a martial art, this did not make it a slow start into the discipline. Many graduated students would say the most difficult week was the first. To learn the precepts properly, one needed to be them. There was much preparation in becoming those precepts.
"Welcome," the man in the center of the stage greeted the kneeling students. He bowed unnecessarily deeply as did his shihan for the purposes of respect for their sensei. "This is the dojo of Kori no Tate. You will learn how to be a shield of ice. One, that when large and sturdy enough, will be able to withstand anything." His speech was unusually colloquial as well. Did he lack a sense of authority or pride in himself? He was even wearing a white belt, placing himself at the level of the newest students.
"I will start today by teaching you the precepts by which we follow as practitioners of Kori no Tate." He motioned behind him as his shihan pulled some ropes connected to the ceiling of the dojo. The whining of canvas unrolling itself sounded as a large tarp fell to reveal the twenty precepts that they were to learn. Separated into categories, it seemed easy enough to learn.
Precepts of Kori no Tate
MIND
1. Conflict is close-mindedness
2. Be honest in your ignorance
3. Do not strike at contradicitions
4. Be considerate about your disagreements
5. Conflict will cease when understanding is met
SOUL
6. You are part of your environment
7. Others are part of your environment
8. Respect your environment
9. Others are affected by your environment
10. You are your environment
SPIRIT
11. Life is singular
12. Take care for yourself
13. Pleasantness is contagious
14. Take care for others
15. Life is all-encompassing
BODY
16. Mind your body
17. Keep oneself centered
18. Awareness is survival
19. Keep oneself strong
20. Mind your heart
Actually reading them, one might see a large margin of interpretation these precepts allowed. "Conflict is close-mindedness!" He bellowed, his voice changing drastically from his introduction. "The Gotei 13 is a useless organization full of power-hungry individuals seeking self-fulfillment!" The words echoed endlessly throughout the large open room.
He paused a moment to see the reaction among the sea of children before him. Most widened their eyes while others contorted their faces in confusion. A few seemed rightfully angry or upset while a few others seemed accepting of the statement, already believing this statement to be true.
Bleach: The Hollowing (8 Months Old)
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