The New Winds

Kaidan has advised him to find his center and let go of things. After Kenji's fire overpowered him yesterday and today, he made his way to the temple of Amtaterasu. Dressed in the plainest clothes Kenji had, he entered the temple.

He sat cross-legged under the last Tori gate before the temple began to meditate.

He had disappointed the clan with his performance so far, his ideals had caused a dispute with Kokyou that he didn't know if he could ever solve, he was too passionate and the voices of his parents didn't let him go.

He needed guidance and help.

After some time, a monk sits down next to Kenji, just sharing the space with him until he was ready to speak.

"Greetings Monk-san, I am Kakita Kenji, may I ask your advice?" he asked softly

"As you have probably already heard, my performances during the championship were not the best. The voices of my parents are gnawing at me. I hardly think I can do justice to them, or my big brother."

The monk listens intently, looking at Kenji, but does not speak yet.

"I don't know what to do. I try my best to prove what I can do, but I just can't seem to succeed at it, like I'm cursed." He shook his head "The mantra: disappointment, failure, dirt, repeats over and over again in my head and I just can't stop the voices. I'm afraid I'm a disgrace to the clan, Monk-san."

The monk nods and stays silent for a few more moments before speaking gently.

"Remember the Three Sins, Kakita-san. Do not let yourself become overwhelmed by them."

"A friend of mine told me I wasn't centered enough. I was hoping to get guidance here because I actually believe the three sins have trapped me. I try to avoid this circle, but it's not easy."

"Coming to the Temple, or to the Shrine is a good first step. Pray to your ancestors, the Fortunes, and the Kami to ask them for guidance. Meditate to help clear your mind as well."

"Thank you, Monk-san. "Would it be too much to ask if I could stay at the temple tonight? I have much to think about"

"You are welcome to use one of our guest rooms, Kakita-san. If you are staying though, it would be nice if you help with the maintenance of the Temple."

"Thank you and of course, Monk-san"

(Not knowing, do i give him the money or is there a box somewhere? Or do he actually want me to do things?)

((Box for donations, and he expects you to do stuff like sweep and clean))

Kenji got up. "Where can I find a broom, Monk-san? Amaterasu may sinking already, but I will use the rest of the light."

The monk smiles and stands as well.

"Come, I will show you."

Kenji followed the monk, but when they passed a donation box Kenji stopped briefly, clapped his hands, bowed and put a Bu in it. After that he followed the monk further.

The monk led him to the back of the temple where the rooms were, out of the way and out of sight from those who would be visiting and worshiping at the temple.

"Here is where you can sleep,"

He hands Kenji a broom that was leaning on the wall

"And here is your broom."

"Thank you, Monk-san. I'll start to do my part right away."