Essmel - A planet of samurai, magic, and mysticism

[Houjun]

Essmel: A Planet of Samurai, Magic, and Mysticism

History:
A large, sparsely populated planet situated approximately 4 light years from Elysia. *The culture of the planet is similar to feudal Japan. *Each of the four continents are ruled by The Clans. *The worlds theology is based on a dual system of good vs evil. *Dakez is the god of light (good) while Fulcron is the goddess of darkness (evil).

All citizens of the planet worship one or the other diety. *Through life long meditation, each citizen becomes intertwined with the CHI force. *This force, if cultivated, can provide the user with extraordinary powers and abilities. *Only a few gifted individuals ever achieve Dasami status. *Most citizens can only utilize their CHI force to enhance their religious beliefs and services. *However, those individuals that have achieved Dasami status can wield unimaginable powers.

The balance between light and dark has remained equal throughout the planets long history. *Both forces in equal opposition to one another has kept the darkness in check. *However, over the last 2000 years, many more followers have chosen the dark path, chosen to worship the beautiful demon goddess. *Three of the four clans (along with all of their followers) have returned their CHI powers to Fulcron. *With all of the additional followers, the balance has shifted and Fulcron was able to escape from the Afterlife Void.

Very few warriors of light remain to battle Fulcron. *If she were to gain enough power to escape from Essmel, the whole universe could be brought under her control. *Dakez is very powerful but does not have enough followers to break free from the Afterlife Void to battle Fulcron.

Currently:

Houjun had revealed to Dorian, Karasu and Lotus that there is a strong possilibity they are the three remaining Dasami Warriors he's been searching for.

Dorian, through Houjun's aid had discovered he is the one Dakez chose to lead the warriors, and help bring Dakez back to the living. However, the samurai has yet to understand and accept his mission.

Fulcron had discovered about Lotus' light weaving ability but she failed to capture the Muse.

Hito caused trouble for the group, specifically between Karasu and Lotus by reporting to the Town Elders that Lotus' Mandate had been broken by Karasu. In lieu of Karasu's execution, Lotus forfeited her title as Muse and went through a series of public humilitation and torture.

Karasu, with an unconscious Lotus left the town and temporarily settled in an old abandoned barn. Houjun left the group for the meantime to collect himself and discovered that Lotus has accepted Dakez, his mark now on Lotus' chest, thus confirming her Dasami status.

(summary for other characters to be added...)

[Houjun]

When Lotus fell, Karasu cried out and rushed forward with all of his might to catch her before she landed in the mud, but was too late. As soon as the ninja arrived by the Muse immediately scooping her up and running towards the inn, but the innkeeper stood defiantly in the doorway his arms crossed, "Where do you think you're going?"

Karasu glared at the rotound man, "I have to get her inside, she's horribly weak, I need a bed to lay her down on and..."

Holding up a hand, the innkeeper says, "No you don't, I'm not having that thing, or you in my inn. I'd loose customers and as far as I'm concerned, she deserves to die."

The ninja's face hardens, "You heartless monster! How can you say that to this lovely young woman that did nothing wrong to this town or you?" As he shouted, cawing could be heard overhead as ravens came about to rest on the perch on the nearby buildings, seemingly staring right at Karasu.

"She endangered this whole town with her promiscuity. She is now nothing but a whore and we have plenty of whores in here as is, we don't need a stuck up one like her." Putting his hand on the ninja's chest she growls, "Just like there's one to many half-breed scum like you, although I should take it you care for her. She's probably the only woman who would sleep with you at any price."

At that moment Karasu wanted nothing more than to draw out his katana and tears out his heart. But already they were attracting too much attention. Several people have already started to stare at them and he did not want any more trouble than nessicary. Immediately he turns on his heels and heads back to where Dorian was, speaking to him without stopping, "My friend, go find some fresh water and food for Lotus here. I'll find someplace out here where to hole up, I will send someone to notify you when we find a place." During his passing there was a multitude of ravens perched along the main street of the town, so much that white buildings looked pitch black. As he left town, as one they took to the air, cawing as the murder followed Karasu out of the town.

About a mile away from where Lotus was exiled, he found an abandoned farm, the barn had collapsed a long time ago but the home still stood. Breaking through the rickedy door, Karasu searched the place finding a couch that wasn't totally rotten the ninja put them down there as lightly as possible. Letting out a slight cry, a raven came in from the outside and rested on the ninja's hand as he cawed to it. Once finished the raven flew out of the building searching for the samurai, finding him the raven side-stepped next to him. "Dorian." the raven croaked, "Outside town, old house. Follow me!" The large black bird then starts to hop about nervously waiting for the samurai to finish his business and follow him to their resting place.

[Houjun]

((KA BUMP! More to come!!))

::It was a long day of much crying and suppression of anger as Midori coaxed her body back into repare or, at least, fit enough to serve. She was a slave, afterall, and soon her Master would call on her perhaps out of pure spite for the injuries he'd cast upon her. Whether they be his intentions or not, Midori had to always be ready to serve or be sold or killed. There was a saying back in the lands of the Eastern Dynasty: "There is no such thing as an indispensible slave." Midori certianly would not be missed.

It was late into the night and early into the day before her Master called upon her. He sent two female slaves of equally low cast to clean her up and aid her in dressing. The geisha style make-up was not applied to her child-like features. Her attire was much, much simpler than that of the Muse when she still held her title. Her kimono was as dark as her long hair which was tied back and stayed in place with a comb and two chop sticks that made an 'X'. She had a black sash but no slippers to fit her feet. With her, Midori brought two stealth katanas with long hilts and blades made to fit her small size. She carried them with as little effort as possible down the hallway and up the stairs to her Master's room. She waited as a servant maid went in and announced her. She waited until he bade her to come.

There were large plushy cushions that padded the wide bed down and were laced about the floor. Women fanned her Master, who wore a short robe tied at the waist with the upper torso showing, in the sweltering heat of the room. Scantily clad slaves sat serenly on pillows, quiet and enjoying this tiny lap of luxury before their next task. Midori, still battered and bleeding in some places, waited in silence until her Master cleared his throat loudly. The other women present looked up at him, rising agily as he clapped his hands twice to signal their dismissal. He waited until they were alone before he addressed her::

"Come closer, Midori."

::She walked forward and stopped at the foot of the bed. She held her katanas at her side, straight despite the pain and twitching in her muscles. Her eyes remained on the floor. She could feel him watching her. His voice was like a thunderclap in the sky::

"Dance."

::As he spoke the words there was a sound fo sliding steel as she brought her katanas up before her face rapidly. She did not move for a moment before she fell into a graceful spin. Her swords flashed as she spun and cut the air to invisible music. her eyes closed and her knees raised as she marched a pace or two before a flash brought her swords into the air over her head. She stepped forward once and pushed up onto her toes and arched her back. She stumbled and fell forward, catching herself at the last moment. Midori grabbed her side with a sword laden hand and grimaced. She ducked her head as her Master's shadow fell upon her::

"Get up!"

::The dancer let out a yelp as a large fist closed in over her robes and yanked her to her feet. Her tiny cry turned into a scream as he noisted her up and over his head, causing her to land and roll onto the bed. Her katanas clattered to the floor. Her hair falling from her delicate up-do, Midori peered up at her Master with utter fright as his shadow towered over her once more. She let out a squeak as his fist grabbed her throat, pinning her onto the array of sheets and pillows. He squeezed his large fingers around her soft flesh and whispered into her ear with gritted teeth. Utter contempt poured from his deep voice as if he could smell her fear as much as he felt her body quiver beneath him::

"Enjoy this."

::A simple command thats he had no choice but to obey::

[Houjun]

::There was a flash of silver in the air and a scream that trailed into a thick gurgle. Then a THUD and all was silent. The sound of feet running along the woodwork of the inn led into a high girlish scream... then another... and another... noise slowly filled the room until that's all that there was within the entire floor of the inn that The Master had taken up with his servants.

He had asked her to enjoy her last moments with him. She made sure she did, though it was not in the vile manner he'd intended. Her last encounter pained her beyond means of repair and the flight of the Muse had shed the light of freedom into Midori's heart. Lotus would be with her love and they would be happy together... that is if she survived the punishment of the Mandate.

He pushed her to the bed and the weight of his body held her there. Midori closed her eyes as tears of pain sprang into them and fell to the soft pillows and sheets. She heard him calling her vile names. Her body was numb to his touch and her noises of hurt were distant. It happened again and again. Each time Midori's anger grew. At one point she was able to reach her arm behind her head to the beautiful combs what pinned her hair. His actions had ripped most of them out, but one remained fastened in place. He turned her over and the stale air of the room touched her skin. She shivered and drew the comb from behind her back. There was a flash of steel in the lantern-light. Not a comb...

Her Master screamed and his throat let out a gurgle of red liquid. His hands reached for her and squeezed her throat as she lunged again. He saw and grabbed her fist, twisting it until the knife clattered to the floor. He hit her and half her body fell over the side of the bed. A sleek long hilt stuck out from under the bed. She reached for it...

Her hands closed around the cold hilt adn she twisted and pulled herself back up onto the bed. She stradled the twitching body and brought ther hilt up above her eyes. In the steel the darkness in her brown, almond eyes was reflected. Her Master's wide eyes were white in the dimmed light of the room. With a yell she brought the sword down.

Silence.

She breathed hard. Realization of what she'd done made her eyes tear until they brimmed over. She sniffled and shook, ducking her head to her katana's hilt.

There were footsteps. Voices. Midori looked towards the door. Horror lit her eyes. She could not be found. She slid off the bed and fell to her knees. Her body ached. She reached for her second katana and her robes, listening to the steel as it scraped the floor. She stood with support and took the other katana from the heart of her Master. No. Not her Master. Not anymore. No one would be so long as she breathed. She limped to the window, half dragging her swords behind her. She cried as she lifted one leg over. It was a long drop below her. She looked back into the room as the voices grew louder, approaching the door. She looked out over the town and prayed::

"Gods give me wings to fly to freedom. If I was meant to be free and soar on the wind, let the wind catch me and carry me away..."

::She spread her wings and fell from the window. Her ebony hair streamed past her cheeks and her black kimono fluttered like a leaf on the wind. Tears fell from her cheeks as the ground rushed towards her. The last thing she heard was a womanly scream. It was not meant for her. They'd found him.

Around the corner, where an unloved young girl fell, pulled a hay cart *piled thick with straw. The horse hooves on the cobblestone streets were too loud for the tiny thud to be heard by the old woman driving the cart back to her farm outside the city. Lights went on inside the inn and the floor with the dead Master was a flutter with chaos. One opened window's shutters thumped in the wind. The little bird who flew to her freedom was gone, clutching a piece of hay and straw in its beak::

[Houjun]

:: It was a lonely deserted path by the side of the mountain. Do you remember the place? The place where one of the Dakez's most loyal monks first learned his mission - to gather the four Dasami Light Warriors to help bring back Dakez and bring Fulcron back to the Afterlife Void. ::

:: If only it was as easy as it sounded. Gathering them was the easy part; Fate had helped a lot. Getting them to achieve their Dasami levels was trickier. The samurai had yet to accept the role of leader, to trust in his own instincts and capabilities. The ninja had excellent skills, too much in fact in which his methods might hinder him from transcending. And that includes too much passion, which could eventually lead to anger. Certainly something a Dasami Warrior shouldn't possess. Then there was the Muse, the inspiration for all, and yet she comes from a place with a different belief and culture. Can she believe in Dakez enough for her to transcend? ::

:: Tired and drained, Houjun can now be found once again sitting on top of the large boulder underneath the tree. His robes were no longer crisp and white, instead gray, dull and drab. His blue hair clung to the top of his head like a wet mop. ::

:: He allowed himself to be one with the silence, letting all the worries drift away. He came here to meditate and refocus, and hopefully have a chance to communicate with Dakez himself. Only, it was near impossible to do so. Too few of people believed in him enough for him to reach out to the physical world. Which is why he had sent Dorian back, to confirm to the monk their mission. ::

:: Houjun eventually levitated off the rock, sitting indian style on thin air. The wind blew itself gently around him, his staff once again skipping around him as if protecting him, jingling and jangling all the way. ::

*Jingle Jangle Jingle Jangle*

:: Light blue energy encircled the monk, radiating a calming glow around. Birds had stopped their flight and perched themselves on the branches, looking at Houjun with utmost curiosity. And in his head, clear as ever he once again saw Dakez's symbol, etched on flesh. Only it was not his... his was on his forehead. Not Dorian's for his was on his arm, and the last time Houjun had saw that, it was still light and unclear. This one in his vision was fresh, yet visible. Strong. And skin was paler, much smoother than theirs. ::

:: Who had started ascending? ::

[Houjun]

~*Lotus*~

::Winds blew the barn door so that it fluttered. Every now and again the wind blew hard enough for it to lightly slap the sinking structure of the barn. All was silent. There was an occasional caw of a raven or crow that flew overhead. On a decaying couch was a girl, wrapped in torn black rags that had once been a ninja's cloak. She did not move and was so battered that for all outsider's guesses, she could have well been dead. Her ebony hair was strewn across her face, soaked and matted as the rest of her. She barely moved.

On one particularly strong wind, where the doors banged particularly hard agains thte wooden frame of the barn, she stirred. No, it was not she that stirred. It was only the wind blowing her hair. The mangled cloth that draped the curves of her chest fluttered. Beneath it something began to glow. It was soft as her lips at first but then it began to glow so brightly that thje black cloth that covered her glowed above it. It was a marking similar to that on Dorian's arm. In fact, it was the same. The exact same. Lotus did not move, but the wind howled and with it the rune-ish marking glowed its brightest::

[Houjun]

:: Still floating above his rock, Houjun kept his eyes closed while his staff skipped like a happy little boy around him, jingling and jangling all the way. ::

*Jingle Jangle Jingle Jangle*

:: His vision started zooming out, revealing traces of black surrounding the skin that bore Dakez's mark. Slowly, the view again expanded, showing more of the black material until it finally presented to view what it really was - a robe haphazardly draping around the body of a woman with skin so fair, despite being scratched and dirtied. The wind blew in the monk's vision and tossed around the female's long, wavy ebony hair. Lotus. ::

:: Houjun smiled to himself. She had accepted Dakez. Despite going through everything, she was now one of them. Their inspiration. The heart. ::

:: In one swift movement, the monk's right hand reached out and clasped his staff firmly. He tapped it twice on the ground and blinked away from his resting spot. ::

:: Back at the beaten down farm house, Houjun appeared out of thin air right beside Karasu. He gently placed his hand on the ninja's shoulder, and when he looked up he saw Houjun's usual bright smile. ::

Beautiful place you have here. :: he said, winking. ::

:: Cautiously, he walked over to the Muse, whose breath was faint and shallow, quite possibly from exhaustion. The monk took one of the chairs and sat beside Lotus. He perched his staff right in front of him, balancing on it's end as he started picking a few of the multicolored threads hanging from the emblem. Little by litte, as he plucked it off with his right hand, his left was busy weaving it, and as the pieces intertwined, it glowed more and more... ::

[Ilyhandra]

Karasu sat alone in the cottage, surrounded by ravens silently awaiting Lotus' return to the waking world. When the mark appeared on her still perfect skin the ninja stood up in surprise, many of the ravens fly out of the room in surprise, not wanting to be part of the magical events taking place. Searching the cabin, Karasu soon finds a pitcher of water for the fair lady, but only gets halfway back when Houjun pops up beside him, "WHOA! you scared me..." He says putting the pitcher down.

In a split second later he grabs the monk's shoulder and leads him towards the sleeping muse, "I'm glad you're here though. Lotus has been through a lot, she's been like this ever since we left town, now there's this strange glyph on her. Please help her..." Karasu says, begging Houjun.

[Houjun]

Strange, you say? :: Houjun asked, his tiny eyes glinting at the ninja. The monk stooed beside the couch, looking directly at the glowing mark shining through the black robe that draped over their muse. He leaned over, making sure he was seeing it correctly, and when Karasu leaned beside him to take a closer look as well, Houjun reached for his staff and stomped it on the ground, hitting Karasu's left foot then shook his finger at the winged ninja. ::

Tut, tut. Must not stare at the lady. It's very rude.

:: Houjun reached for the silky blue fabric, that hung on tha backrest on the rickety chair he sat on. He had finished weaving some of the strands from his staff, and that was the result. He stretched the fabric over lotus like a blanket and it glowed, emanating the monk's CHI. Before the fabric reached Lotus' body, it cut itself up into strips and found their own way, wrapping themselves on the muse's cuts and bruises. ::

:: With a big grin on his face, Houjun turned back to Karasu. ::

You know, that is a strange symbol. Don't you think? It actualy looks like the one I have right over... :: The monk pushed aside the blue hair and pointed at his forehead, which was usually hidden from sight. :: ...here.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus*~

::Snakes, cold writhing snakes crawled over her skin. They wiggled into her wounds, spreading a poisonous warmth throughout her body. Lotus inhaled sharply. Her delicate fingers tightened on the couch cushions and her back arched. She coughed, rouging her lips with freckles of red blood, and then her back slumped back down to the couch fabric. She was silent once more, but she breathed easier. A peaceful expression of calm blanketed her face.

************************************************

::A wagon cart pulled by a single horse came clattering up the dirt drive of the farm where the refugees hid. The driver clicked his teeth and unhitched the hayload to go and stable his horse in the shed over from the barn. The large mound of hay was left there. Within it, there was a groan. Midori stretched her hands out. The hilt of a katane was nudged by her palm and before her fingertips could wrap around it, the sword fell with a ringing clang to the rocky dirt below.::

[RPTink!]

Omi

Omi stood in the shadow of the inn, silent observer of the cruel exhibition in the village. *After the poor ninja and his companion were denied help at the inn, Omi walked inside, making sure to note the ninja's direction in leaving town. *Casually walking about the inn, Omi surveyed its interior and picked out a handsome pitcher. *With a quick glance and a silent swoosh, the pitcher of water disappeared beneath the ronin's earth-colored robes, and he strode out of the inn.

About a quarter of an hour after hiking out of town on the ninja's trail, Omi arrived at a deserted farm - an ideal shelter for such poor exiles. *If there was any doubt he would find the ninja here, it dissipated as a group of ravens flew at once out of the cottage. *But instead of heading for the door to the cottage, Omi strayed to its side opposite the sun, having sighted a cart advancing up the road. *After watching the driver unhitch his load and lead the horse to the stable, Omi prepared to introduce himself to the outcasts, pulling his gift out from under his robes. *He stopped at the sound of metal dropping against the rocky dirt road. *His waist shifted instinctively, bringing the hilts of his katanas where they would be reached most efficiently as he approached the wagon.





((I hope this is ok. *Still figuring things out...))

[Ilyhandra]

Karasu let out a bit of a muffled scream when Houjun whacked his foot, forcing him to hop up and down on it for a few minutes until the pain subsided to a level where he could walk on it. Glaring at the monk for a minute, the ninja then found him revealing his own mark that looks identical to her's. Blinking a couple of times, he lets out a sigh of relief, "Well that's good, that means it's nothing harmful. But what does it mean overall, is she now a monk like you, or one of those light warrior things?"

Before the monk could answer Karasu could hear steel against stone that immediately drew his attenion. "Stay here and watch over Lotus, I'll deal with our visitor..." He says flicking his sword out of the scabard a inch or two. Without another sound, he is out the door. Coming outside he settles his wings in it's default cloak like setting and looks about for the source of the of the sound. He soon found it near a couple of bales of hay, drawing his black katana he says, "Alright, I know you're in there. What do you want now, to tar and feather poor Lotus, because I can't think of anything else that could be more humiliating than what you already did. Come out now and state your intentions!"

[RPTink!]

Omi

Omi's initial instinct told him to hide. This was hardly the introduction he had planned. But this was no time for his little games - the girl in the wagon was in dire need; he could easily tell feeling her breath on his fingertips.
The ronin peeked from behind the wagon.
I doubt this one can harm you, young ninja. Quite the contrary, I'd say.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Midori*~

::Fingertips tried to grasp the cold air outside the haystack, but trembled and found only the scratchy straw and thick wood of the cart. There was blood on the fallen katana, the one that had fallen just behind the cart. She wheezed and her fingertips raked the wood. Dark almond eyes, much like Lotus', opened to mere slits, staring without focus through the straw. On the next shaky exhale, Midori's soft, meek voice just made it through the layers of straw.::

"Help me... please..."

[RPTink!]

Omi

The tips of Omi's fingers touched the girl's neck at its base at a carefully located pressure point. As the numbing effect of his touch slowly spread through her, he leaned close and whispered in her ear, unheard by anyone but her:
Rest... You will be cared for. *I give you my word.

Omi slid his hands under the girl's neck and back and pulled her out of the cart and into his arms. Carrying her, he faced the ninja again. His waist shifted again to make his katanas less noticeable, but he remained, as always, aware of them.
I've brought water, his eyes pointed to the pitcher he left on the ground by the wagon for a quick moment, and would be grateful if you would bring it inside.

[Ilyhandra]

When the ronin arrived, Karasu just looked at him for a minute then turns back to the girl and more importantly her sword. Reaching out wish his sword, the ninja raises it with the top of the katana, "Well I do not know about that sir. It looks like she has already hurt someone, if not more." He drops it back to the floor as Omi puts the bar maid to sleep, forcing the half-breed to take a step forward in concern.

"May I ask what that was for?" Karasu says not lowering his sword, "I thought you were telling me that she was harmless?" When Omi points at the pitcher, the ninja reluctantly sheathes his sword pickes the water up. "Go on inside, but you'll have to find another couch for her, the main one is already taken. Please, don't try anything, there is a high monk inside who could do munch more than what I could to you."

[RPTink!]

Omi

Omi allowed a little smile to form on the corner of his lips as he headed towards the rickety door.

Calm yourself, I merely intended to ease her pain. *If she sleeps, it will be due to fatigue, and none of my doing.

His stride slowed as he stepped inside and his eyes wondered about the cottage's interior and its inhabitants.

Hello, friends.

[Houjun]

:: Houjun was sat on the rickety chair, rocking it lightly as he strained to listen to the voices outside the barn. He was flicking lint off his now immaculately white robe, when a man entered the door, carrying a familiar young woman. ::

Good day! :: The monk greeted cheerfully, as if men carrying unconscious women was a everyday occurrence to him. ::

Very interesting. We have one of those, too. :: he said, pointing at Midori then to Lotus. ::

[RPTink!]

Omi

So, I see. Omi said, looking from the blue haired man to the girl on the couch. Well, it looks like you've attended to her quite well. Would you mind extending the same courtesy to this young lady?

************************************************** **********

Meanwhile outside, having attended to his horse, or his lord's horse if one minds such details, Magatsu walked back to make sure the wagon's secure. He stops abruptly, seeing a ninja about to enter the cottage. This was not the first time the 16 year old laborer had stopped at this abandoned farm to rest during his long trips, but it was the first time he saw someone else here.

[Yumi]

In the shadows on the side of the dirt road leading towards the abandoned farm house sat a small white fox watching the commotion. Hmm, the old farm house sure seems popular today, she thought as she watched the man carrying a girl walk inside the house. Maybe I should take a closer look.

[Houjun]

So, I see. Omi said, looking from the blue haired man to the girl on the couch. Well, it looks like you've attended to her quite well. Would you mind extending the same courtesy to this young lady?

No, I would not mind at all.

:: Houjun took a seat on top of one of the haystacks and motioned for Omi to place Midori near him. :: You must excuse the place, we were not expecting company. :: he said, smiling at the newcomers. While Omi placed Midori down, Houjun's staff detached itself from his back and balanced itself right in front of the monk. Whistling to himself, Houjun started picking out the light blue threads that hung from the orange stone perched of his staff. *For the second time during this day, Dakez's monk weaved the thread through his fingers, and in a few seconds managed to make strips of bandages that glowed as blue as his CHI. ::

:: Upon finishing, Houjun waved his hand and the bandages found the cuts and bruises on Midori's body and applied themselves. ::

Midori may need to rest some more. :: Houjun jumped down from his spot, with his staff following him as he checked back on Lotus. He then turned his attention back to Omi :: What did you say your name was again?

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Midori*~

The child opened her eyes and, though what she saw was out of focus, she recognized the faces before her. Though she knew them not by name, she knew them from her encounter at the inn... the encounter that started Midori's flight.

The child's eyes opened to the group.

"Master Ninja... the Musssee...."

Her eyes closed agains and she sighed. The straw scratched at her skin, but she paid it no heed. She only shivered and muttered when Houjun's weavings found their way onto her body.

"...My swords..."

[RPTink!]

Omi

Omi looked down at the young girl while the monk checked on the woman on the couch, hearing her mutter and paying special attention to the way she still clutched her sword.
Midori, eh?

What did you say your name was again?
I am Omi, and I must ask you to excuse me for a moment. I shall return promptly.

Omi walked back outside, nodding to the ninja and wagon driver on the way as if they were well acquainted. He stopped by the hay cart to pick up the sword Midori dropped and walked back inside.
Omi dropped to one knee at Midori's side, laying her sword beside her and took her free hand, placing it on the hilt of her sword.

Having completed his task, Omi stood and walked over to the blue haired monk.
I have to admit, that's an admirable skill you possess. What did you say your name was again?

[Ilyhandra]

Still keeping an eye on the strange ronin who came found them, Karasu set the pitcher of water down beside Lotus, wondering when she will wake up again. When the strange girl spoke, the ninja stood up and looked at her critically for a few moments, "Yes, I remember you, you are one of the serving girls at the inn, right? The one who was being mistreated? What happened to you after we left, you look horrible," He says kneeling down to look at all of the bandages Houjun just place on her. "And what did you do with that katana?"

When the ronin introduced himself, the ninja stood up and looked at him square in the eye, "I am Karasu Darkwind, one of the last members of the Ankasazi clan of ninja. Although the locals know me as 'that acursed half-breed that defiled the Muse.'" He says leering off in the distance towards the village. Taking in several deep breaths he eventually calmed down. "But that whole ordeal is over with. Now I am just waiting for Lotus," He says gesturing to the beauty sleeping on the couch, "To get better so we can leave this place."

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus & Midori*~

Midori's eyes opened upon hearing her name. There were voices all around her, some familiar and some not. Her eyes were heavy and she felt so tired. Her muscles ached and were tense, but when *her head leaned against the hay and she saw the Lady Muse, Midori's heart wept. She no longer pitied herself for her pain. Nothing could be so bad as the pain of the broken Muse.

The view of the Muse was suddenly interrupted. A man she'd never seen before knelt before her. Something slid into her hand. She immediately recongized it as her katana's hilt and clenched it fiercly as she did her first sword. Both were stained with blood and it didn't go unnoticed. She did not wilt under his gaze.


"Yes, I remember you, you are one of the serving girls at the inn, right? The one who was being mistreated? What happened to you after we left, you look horrible," He says kneeling down to look at all of the bandages Houjun just place on her. "And what did you do with that katana?"

Unlike Lotus when she first met the ninja and the monk, this child did not seem to fear people. In fact, her dark eyes seemed to be liberated from the bonds of slavery's yolk. For a moment anyway, but then she turned her eyes away and spoke in a soft whisper.

"It is a sword, sir. I used it in the fashion that men made swords for."

The girl looked past the ninja, to the Muse. She called out in a tongue that was perhaps unknown to them.

"Tualka lindor ona awra panta lle elea!"

(Immovable Muse, beget pain and open your eyes!)

She stirred on the couch with a moan. Fingers danced along the fabric of the couch and then clenched tight. Ebony hair, much too dirty for what it usually was, fell across her face. Behind the veil of hair, Lotus' eyes opened and looked up at both Karasu and Midori. She whispered breathlessly, angrily, forgetting herself.

"Amin naya ba, hin. N'nyara amin en' awra."

(I should be dead, child. Do not tell me of pain!)

And without another word, she lay her cheek on the couch cushion, closed her eyes and began to weep.

[RPTink!]

Magatsu

Magatsu considered hitching his horse back to the wagon and leaving, but he knew of no other place where he could rest without paying a fee, and no one seemed to mind him thus far.
Hesitantly, the young man knocked on the rickety door, peeking inside.

[Houjun]

I have to admit, that's an admirable skill you possess. What did you say your name was again?

Thank you, Omi. Dakez makes it all possible. :: He shook the ronin's hand, smiling warmly and introduced himself. :: I am his follower. You may call me Houjun.

:: When Karasu introduced himself, Houjun felt the anger nestled deep within the ninja. He stepped beside him and gave him a reassuring pat on the shoulder. ::



"Tualka lindor ona awra panta lle elea!"

"Amin naya ba, hin. N'nyara amin en' awra."

:: Houjun followed Midori's gaze as it settled on a now stirring Lotus. The monk walked over to Midori and gently laid his hand on her head. ::

What Lotus had experienced is too much even for the strongest of beings. Give her time to rest, young one. All will be well.

:: The monk's thoughts were interrupted by a knock and a head peeking through the door. ::

We seem to be really popular today :: He chucled as he brushed his robes and greeted their visitor, his tiny eyes glinting. ::

May we help you, stranger?

[RPTink!]

Omi & Magatsu

Omi greeted Houjun with a tiny smile and then his eyes shifted from person to person as further introductions were made. As everyone's attention turned to the two wounded females, Omi drew back a few strides, making himself less noticeable.

Over by the door, Magatsu lowered his head as he was approached by Houjun.
If you please... I have often sought shelter in this place as I travelled this road in my lord's service, thinking it was abandoned. I apologize for my tresspass and humbly ask for a brief respite from my travels for I am weary.

[Ilyhandra]

Sheathing his sword, Karasu nods, at Midori's comment, "Well that's one thing I could have guessed. May I ask who you used it on, hopefully someone who deserved it..." She says glancing behind her.

When Lotus awoke, Karasu went immediately to her side, putting *hand on her shoulder. "Please don't cry. I, I'm sorry about what I did before, I did not know. I don't know if I could ever make it up to you, but I will do my best to do so. If it takes ten years or ten thousand, I swear that I will protect, serve, and more importantly, love you for all that time," He pledges wrapping his hands about her's and extending one black wing about to further embrace her.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus*~

Midori would not answer Karasu. Instead she turned her face away from the parties of people that had gathered in the room and looked to the wall where the hay stacked against it. Tears formed in her own eyes at the sounds of the Muse sobbing. It made her want to scream.

Lotus wept softly and looked up at Karasu, into his lovingly eyes for a second before she looked back to the floor and hung her head.

"What you did does not matter. So long as you are true to your word, then my sacrafice will not have been in-"

She stopped and her eyes opened, peeking between feathers and wing at the party of people gathered at the door. Karasu would feel Lotus quiver. Shielded by his double embrace, Lotus felt safe... and yet there was still a gaping hole of vulnerability sitting within her soul. She was nothing without her title. With all of the admiration in the world, would she ever feel of use and purpose again? Her tears began to dry, but she remained shaded in karasu's embrace. Again, he would feel her quiver. Her eyes felt heavy again. She leaned her forehead against his strong chest, closed her eyes as a few last tears fell, and exhaled.

[Houjun]

Over by the door, Magatsu lowered his head as he was approached by Houjun.[/i]
If you please... I have often sought shelter in this place as I travelled this road in my lord's service, thinking it was abandoned. I apologize for my tresspass and humbly ask for a brief respite from my travels for I am weary.

Do you mean, sir, that this is not abandoned?! :: Houjun gasped, a look of shock playing on his face. :: We are travelers as well. Come, join us and rest.

:: Houjun rejoined the group and took a spot on a haystack. :: This man here has asked that we let him rest. Of course, being the kind monk that I am, allowed him to do so. Dakez always taught us that more is merrier than one more... or... :: he turned silent as he tried to figure out what he was trying to say. ::

[RPTink!]

Magatsu

Magatsu was relieved when greeted in such a friendly manner and at the mention of Dakez, but as he stepped inside, he found himself surrounded by a broad cast of unusual characters and an undeniable air of sadness.
He acknowledged the people in the room with a courteous nod and hurried to sit himself on some hay, not far from the monk. The silence, laced with quiet sobs, was quite uncomforting, but the 16 year old did not want to disrupt the monk while he was lost in thought.

[Ilyhandra]

Holding the lovely woman close, Karasu did his best not to cry, he had to be strong for her, be her anchor in this tough times. Despite this a single tear managed to lose itself from his eye and lands on her silken hair, wiping away all the grime in it's path. "You don't have to worry about that, us Anakazies never go back on our word to friends or family."

He holds her close as the eyes of others can be felt looking over him, expecially his wings. Lifting his head up but not moving Lotus in the bit, Karasu says to the newcomers, "Do not worry, I won't bite, devour, or steal your soul. I'm not even a true spirit, so don't ask." Turning to look back at Lotus the ninja says, "This place seems to be turning into a rather popular place. We're going to have to start charging admission soon."

[Grey Cloud]

The weary traveller pauses in a forest for a break. *It has been from one place to another, randomly mixing itself into the lives of men and women both. *Sitting calmly under the cool shade of this tree it contemplates upon it's next stop. *Where will it be? *Whom shall it be with? *It does not know, and to tell the truth it does not care. *The thrill of meddling serves as it's entertainment. *Inserting itself into the lives of others seems to be it's calling, for better or worse. *There it sits, under this tree. *Resting.....

....waiting.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus & Midori*~

The Exiled Muse speaks softly to Karasu, with her head down and voice echoing softly onto his chest.

"I do not like all these people here..."

She shifted in Karasu's arms and noticed, for the first time, how horrible she looked. Houjun's healing weavings had worked wonders, for there was not a mark upon her skin. But the weavings could nod rid her skin of the dirt and dried blood that covered her. She looked at her hands and her clothes... or rather the tattered rag that abrely covered her body. Her eyes went wide and she pulled the rags more securely over her limbs.

"I need a bath," she whispered just loud enough for Karasu to hear. She repeated again to make sure he heard. "I do not like these people here..."

Laying on the hay, Midori saw the panic in the Muse's eyes. Title or not, the slave respected Lotus with all her heart. What she did was brave, though foolish to do in THAT town... Midori admired her bravey and dedication to the ninja. With a groan, the child sat up. She still clutched her swords in her hands, which made her movements awkward and wobbly. She would not release them with so many here. Like Lotus, she desired to be clean and rid of the blood that stained her. The Muse would need caring first.

"I must attend the Lady Muse..." She said as she tried to stand.

[RPTink!]

Omi & Magatsu

Omi stepped forward, seeing the girl trying to stand.

Excuse me, little one. *I do not mean to dishonor you, but custom has little meaning in a place such as this. *There is no doubt you are in need of assistance, and seeing how there are no other ladies available to assist, I must offer it myself. *Please allow me to help you up, and make whatever preparations which may be necessary.

Despite the nature of his offer, Omi stood tall and proud, with one hand gripping the dark sash about his waist and the other held out for Midori to take if she chose to.

At the other side of the room, the ever uncomfortable Magatsu, amazed to see a samurai, even though he was undoubtedly ronin, make such an offer, rose to his feet. *With a slight bow aimed at no one in particular he said:

If you please, there is usually wood to be found at the barn, for warming water and cooking food. *I shall fetch some.

[Ilyhandra]

Hearing Lotus' plea, the half-breed just nodded to her, slowly breaking their embrace but definately not by choice, he wanted to hold on to her forever, but now something more important came up. Turning to the gathered throng he claps his hands together, "Alright everybody! Lotus wants to have a bath and since I think *I saw a wall of the bathroom missing we're all going to have to go outside. Have to give her her privacy so everybody out, come on!" He says ushering everybody but Midori outside since she volenteered to help Lotus bathe and was a girl. "My lady wants a bath and she's going to have one, undisturbed by any lecherous spy trying to get a peek at her!" Once everybody is outside, Karasu stands in front of the door, defiantly, keeping anybody from entering while the Muse is bathing.

Meanwhile in the forest a pair of lurking eyes was watching the farm house with interest, seeing everybody leave, a smile creeped across the mouth under those eyes. As soon as they had appeared, they have disappeared back into the shadows.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus & Midori*~

Midori blinked at Omi. She spoke softly with no hint of disrespect and studied the ground intently.

"Sir... forgive me, but you did not know."

Midori shrugged her shoulder and her kimono-like robe slid down her petit frame. On the back of her shoulder was a single mark in ancient script. The meaning was universal, just like the status of being a Muse was known throughout the known dynasties that rules the world. It meant slave. Midori held out her right palm and the mark was there two. Two brandings: one to know her status by, and the other for discipline, a self reminded bestowed upon her by her Master for her disobedience. Shrugging her shoulder, the young girl pulled her robe back over the marking. Her eyes refused to look at him. They studied the ground.

"I am obligated, my Lord. Please let me finish my task for the Lady Muse."

With no other intent than to do as the Lady wished, Midori brushed past Omi and went to Lotus. She tried to display as much strength for them both as she could. She aided the Lady Muse in sitting up, keeping her eyes on the ground. Lotus looked up at Midori and grabbed her chin roughly. Her eyes looked upon her with stern authority, as if realizing for the first time who she was. Lotus dropped her voice to a whisper and spoke in the tongue of Slaves that Midori had addressed her in before, in the language of the old dynasty before it was seized and conquered.

"Mani naa lle umien sinome, Midori?"

((What are you doing here, Midori?))

Midori's eyes remained on the floor.

"Am-"

Lotus tightened her hand on Midori's chin and pushed it up.

"Maa ie'amin iire lle quena! Amin n'naa Turalle!"

((Look at me when you speak! I am not your Master!))

Midori made no sound and looked up at Lotus almost angrily.

"Amin lembe Tulamin. Ro n'anin anta na tue."

((I left my Master. He no longer needs to be served.))

Lotus released her and closed her eyes, gathering patience. It seems since she lost her title she's lost so much grace... so many honorable attributes. Her eyes opened. She saw the blood on Midori's katanas. Her almond eyes quickly looked up to the slave girl. She spoke softly.

"Lle kole sapsa rashwe iire. Lle soore?"

((You bring grave trouble here. Were you followed?))

The child shook her head.

"N'numa."

Lotus pursed her lips and then smoothed Midori's cheek and put her hands on her shoulders. She spoke in a rushed whisper.

"Clean those up then prepare my bath. Asca!"

Midori bowed and then rushed to the back of the barn to see what supplies could be gathered. Lotus closed her eyes and sat back against the couch looking slightly distressed. Midori found a large wooden basin for bathing lambs and cleaned it as best she could. With a grunt, she dragged it into a more accessible position and then went to the front of the barn. She knocked on the door gently and opened the door. She looked up to see Karasu standing guard and looked down.

"Master Ninja... is there wood to make a fire to heat the Lasy muse's bath water?"

[Yumi]

As Yumi neared the farm house she saw people suddenly file out of the house. I wonder what happened. She wanted to introduce herself but figured that it would be hard to do in her present form.

The transformation from fox to human wasn't painful. Not anymore, anyway. She's been doing it for so long know that she's used to it.

Yumi reached the farm house but hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Um, hey, what's going on here?"

[Ilyhandra]

When Midori shows her slave mark to Karasu, the only thing he does is stand there balling his hands into fists in anger and frustration. He wanted to whip out his katana and cut those offensive tattoos of then and there, but that might cause more damage than even Houjun could fix. Instead he just nods at her saying, "Please, just take care of her," Before leaving the house to let the ladies do their thing. When she stuck her head out a minute later and asked for firewood, Karasu simply smiled, nodded and started looking.

There wasn't any logs piled up by the house, so the ninja would have to go looking in the forest, luckily there was a lot of dead wood about, so Karasu just had to pick it up. Then the odd woman came out of seemingly nowhere, and for a minute he just stopped and stared at her feeling something odd in him he never felt before. What was it? It couldn't be love because he loves Lotus and this doesn't feel the same... although it's not totally different. When she asked what was going on he just mubbles out, "Oh, nothing really, just getting some firewood. Hunkering down here for the night. May I ask what a lady such as yourself is doing this far out in the woods?"

[Yumi]

"I'm just taking a walk," she replied. "The farm house is one of my favorite places to visit but it's not usually so...busy."

Yumi looked at the wood the man was gathering and then to the house.

"Do you need any help?"

[RPTink!]

Magatsu

Before long, Magatsu came trotting back from the barn, carrying several halved logs of wood. *He stopped before Midori, not knowing if he should take them inside or set them down.

I trust these will suffice.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Midori*~

Though it was not her place, Midoru watched Yumi with calculating eyes. She studied the woman intently. Perhaps the land she and Lotus came from was a bit more skeptical, but raondom strangers coming from nowhere were an oddity and not to be trusted. Perhaps it was only Midori's nature to feel so uneasy. Still... she regarded the woman and the ninja carefully, that is, until Magatsu came back with the wood. To the young man she looked and smiled gratefully with a bow of her head.

"You are too kind, Young Master. I cannot carry all this wood myself, so you may enter, but keep your eyes in their proper, respectful place. Our Lady has been through much."

When Midori held the barn door for Magatsu to enter, he would see her other hand touch the twin katanas she'd tucked into her belt. While defiling women was not an untriable crime in her land, it was still her job to protect who she serves. For now, her services were dedicated to Lotus and thus she would protect her. She did offer to take some of the bundle from the young man and kicked the barn door closed behind him. She led him towards the back of the barn and then halted him. Taking her bundle she brought it in back to the basin and the kettles of water she'd gathered to heat for the Lady Muse. Lotus sat beyond the hay in total silence, waiting and deep in thought. Midori returned to Magatsu without interrupting her. As she spoke, she reached and took more of the bundle from his arms.

"Forgive my curiosity, Young Master, but I am worried for My Lady's safety with so many strangers about. Where do you come from? Do you and the Older Master... Omi... travel together?"

[Grey Cloud]

Grey Cloud had quietly stumbled upon a man gathering wood in the forest and made itself scarce from the man's sight by submitting itself into the trees above. *Watching him with a peculiar curiosity, Grey Cloud silently glided through the branches of the forest as a means to follow this man to a barn of some sort. *Remaining perched and hidden, it watches warily as the man engages in conversation with a female. *It wonders what they were talking about.

[RPTink!]

"Forgive my curiosity, Young Master, but I am worried for My Lady's safety with so many strangers about. Where do you come from? Do you and the Older Master... Omi... travel together?"
Magatsu kept his eyes on the floor as he stepped inside, being both respectful and shy.
Please, I am no master. *I am but a farmer's boy. *I travel these roads quite often in my lord's service, and have rested in this place many times in the past. *But only once has there been anyone else here but me.
I do not know the ronin, or any of the others. *I simply wish to rest for a little while and I shall be on my way again.

[Ilyhandra]

Looking back at the old farm house, Karasu can only comment, "Yes, it seems like this place is quite popular with the locals, even though nobody sees anybody else about here. You all must have some remarkable timing." When she asked if she could help, the ninja blushed a bit and shook his head, "Oh, no it's alright, *can handle it alright. Just got to drop this stuff off at the barn then..." He is about to finish when he had the odd feeling that tehy were being watched, turning his gaze up to the trees trying to find the vouyer but can only see some slight mist that was still lingering from the earlier rain. Turning back to the woman he says "Huh, thought I felt something... But no matter, I bet Lotus is just itching to get into a nice warm bath. You could follow along and meet the others if you want," He says rather shyly.

Going over to the barn, he knocks on the door to see if Lotus is decent, waiting for a reply Karasu turns back to his guest, "I'm sorry, but I haven't introduced myself, I'm Karasu, who are you?"

[Yumi]

Yumi followed the man's gaze upward figuring that he to felt that they were not alone. She dismissed the feeling thinking that if whatever it is wanted to attack them, it would have done so already. After following the man to the barn, she hesitated when he asked who she was.

"Karasu, huh? That's a nice name. I'm called Yumi." she said with a smile.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus & Midori*~

Midori listened to Magatsu as she wondered into the back of the barn with the rest of the wood. She'd cleaned the area of hay to prevent the barn from catching fire, and cracked two flint stones together against the wood and some purposefully placed hay. When it caught fire and began to heat the water, Midori returned.

"What Lord do you serve? Or do you speak of the Gods? Where do you travel after this?"

Midori wove back and forth between her duties as she spoke. The water was heated and ready. Midori bunched her robes around her palms and lifted the steaming pot, pouring it into the large wooden basin. It steamed as it was churned, raising billowing clouds to the top of the barn. The water would need to cool before her Lady could enter comfortably. She doused the fire and returned to Magatsu.

"Please forgive all my questions... but I also did not catch your name."

[RPTink!]

Magatsu

Oh, I am so sorry. *I am called Magatsu.
I serve the lord Hishido who controls the lands north of here where I was born. *I travel east to trade with the lord Matsuma in his name.

Having been born into servitude himself, Magatsu felt relatively at ease with Midori, and after a slight pause added:
The gods I must serve in silence, for it is not my place to hold anyone or anything in higher regard than my lord.

[Ilyhandra]

"Yumi," Karasu says turning to look at the pretty woman, "That seems oddly familar but I can't quite place it..." Shrugging and chuckling a bit, "Anyway, may I ask where you're heading after you're done resting here? Honestly I'm not sure where we're going after this either, but I know the monk looking person will likely have some place else to go."

[Yumi]

Karasu's first comment concerned Yumi. Had he heard of her? She frowned a bit as she spoke. "Well, the name is fairly common."

Realizing that she was frowning, she tried to lighten her expression as she thought about Karasu's question. "I...I'm not going anywhere in particular. I'll just see where the day takes me."

[Ilyhandra]

Giving a slight laugh, Karasu says, "That's probably it... But still there's something odd about this." He sighs a little bit looking at the barn wondering what's taking Midori so long. Since his arms were all full with the logs he reaches out with his nearest wing, dispelling the cape effect to bang on the door a couple of times before putting it back in it's usual place. Looking over at Yumi he blushes a bit, "Oh, I'm sorry about not telling you, but I got wings. They're from my father's side of the family, I hope that you aren't too weirded out..."

[Yumi]

Yumi watched with bewilderment as Karasu's wing knocked on the door.

A human with wings? Could he be half demon?

"Oh, no, I'm not 'weirded out', just...suprised."

Yumi stared intently at Karasu for a long moment before speaking again.

"Your father...what, I mean who, is he?"

[Ilyhandra]

Looking at Yumi, Karasu blushed a bit at that question, "Well, my father was Hiyrunashira, a mighty Tengu who lived in the moutains by our village. He was a superb swordsman and would take several young ninja as his deciples to become some of the best warriors of our Clan. Many would call him a demon or something completely not human, but he was as good a father to me as any other. You should have seen him teaching me how to fly, I was flailling all over the place and landing in the mud, but he was always there to help me up back to the air."

Laughing a bit, he turns to look at the ground for a minute, "I wish that he was with us right now but, he was killed before I meet up with Lotus and Houjun. Some dark monster burnt down my village and slain him, string him out like a rabbit drawn out on the ground ready to be tanned." Letting out a long sigh, he says, "Back in that village, my nature became known and they were almost ready to string me up by my ankles like a chicken because of it. Why can't people just accept what I am, I'm as much a person as you are after all, right?"

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus & Midori*~

The Muse sank down into the steaming water of the tub and closed her eyes. Water rippled away from her soft petaled lips as she sighed tiredly. She wanted this alone time very badly and had whispered to Midori of that request. She rubbed her aching arms and leg and let the hot water revive sore muscles. She soaked her long, ebony hair and sniffled, feeling herself on the verge of tears. She would not allow that though. Not now. She had made her choice and she could not go back. Lotus remained in silence for a long time, barely moving beneath the water. Finally she looked to her fingertips and they'd begun to prune. She looked around, but found Midori was still out of sight. Good. At least the girl listened. With a sigh, Lotus nestled back into the tub and let her voice lift into the air gently.

"Midori?"

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Despite herself, Midori smiled to the young farm boy. He had a handsome name that relayed his features quite nicely. She felt a sense of comfort with her fellow servant, though she was a branded slave, this boy seemed nice and gentle, as most servants were supposed to be in the eyes of their Masters. She tilted her head though, in awe and curiosity of something he said.

"That's funny... where I am from the Emperor chooses what Gods we worship and we must worship them aloud. We can worship our own in the silence of our homes, but outside practice is dangerous."

She placed the pot with still hot, steaming water down, brushing hay aside with her foot. She could not risk a fire here. Midori looked to Magatsu and gave him a gentle, shy smile.

"Warm your hands by the water. It's still quite hot."

Midori jumped and froze when Karasu banged on the door. Her lips pursed and she looked to the back of the barn, hearing Lotus' call. She looked to Magatsu and spoke apologetically.

"Forgive me, but my Lady calls and the Master is impatient, it seems. Will you stay with us a while, perhaps for supper? I... we would love your company."

Midori, who looked hesitantly back to the sheltered part of the barn, stepped back. She felt her temperature rise and her cheeks rouge.

[Yumi]

"Back in that village, my nature became known and they were almost ready to string me up by my ankles like a chicken because of it. Why can't people just accept what I am, I'm as much a person as you are after all, right?"

As much as a person as me? Yes, if I was human. But we are somewhat alike... Yumi thought as she started to frown again. *She started to think back to that day long ago when villagers came after her family. There was a boy that she liked very much and who liked her just as much. Not wanting to keep any secrets from him, she decided to show him her true self. Ofcourse he didn't take it to well. Late that night the village people attacked her and her family in her home. Yumi was the only one to escape and she's been wandering every since.

Yumi couldn't answer Karasu. She began to get teary eyed so she turned away from him hoping that he wouldn't notice.

[RPTink!]

Magatsu


"That's funny... where I am from the Emperor chooses what Gods we worship and we must worship them aloud. We can worship our own in the silence of our homes, but outside practice is dangerous."
Oh. Well, it is my lord's task to perform most ritual practices in the name of all who serve beneath him. Just as we must look up to him for food and shelter, we must trust him to address the gods in our name.
Still, at times I feel that Dakez has given me a unique gift and I just... Magatsu paused, suddenly feeling like a foolish child as he looked at the attentive Midori. I'm sorry. It is silly.

Magatsu realized how comfortable he felt around Midori. Perhaps too comfortable. He remained silent until they were interrupted.


"Forgive me, but my Lady calls and the Master is impatient, it seems. Will you stay with us a while, perhaps for supper? I... we would love your company."
Magatsu's eyes widened at Midori's invitation. He felt a gentle warmth within him, but at the same time became very uneasy. He quickly lowered his head and turned to the door.

I shall see if I can assist the ninja while you attend to your mistress.
He quickly paced towards the door and exited the barn, coming face to face with the ninja.
May I be of service?
As he waited for the ninja's reply, Magatsu's eyes wondered towards the woman who now stood nearby with her back to them. He didn't recall seeing her with the rest of the group before, yet she seemed familiar.

[Ilyhandra]

When Magatsu came to the door Karasu was a bit surprised to see the young man not the servant girl. "Ah, well I had all of this firewood and was thinking that if Lotus didn't need it for her bath, then maybe we should get started on cooking up something for the rest of us? Of course we're going to have to find it first, but I saw a fire pit over here," The hybrid says leading him about the house to an old burt out impresson in the dirt.

As he was turning the corner, he could see Yumi drawn into herself and thought he could hear some sniffling. Dropping the logs off near the pit the ninja goes over to put a comforting hand on her shoulder, "What's wrong Yumi? Was it something I said, if so I am sincerly sorry, or was it something else?"

************************************************** *******

Inside the barn someone had moved in behind Lotus with a rather warm towel ready to wrap her up as she gets out. As the Muse is wrapped up, she can see that the towel is a light yellow downy cotton, thick and very warm, cleaner than anything else about the place. A pair of hands then start to rub her shoulders giving a bit of a massage with some rather strong hands. About a few minutes, a hot breath could be felt on her left ear and a rather familiar voice was heard, "Hello my fallen angel."

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus & Midori*~

Lotus, who eyes were closed, favored the soft towel that embraced her slender body. She did not turn her head, but opened her mouth to ask Midori where she had obtained such fashionable cloth in such a short time. Then hands unlike a woman's touched her shoulders. She tensed as they began to massage her strong muscles. Karasu would know better than to approach her like that! Even then, the hands felt... the breath on her ear made her tremble even before the voice spoke.

With a gasp she pulled away from him and turned around. her ebony hair spun across her cheeks and covered torso as she backed around the basin of still warm water to the barn wall.

"...No..."

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* ~*~*~*~*~*~

Midori, despite herself, yet again, couldn't help but smile at Magatsu as he left. She turned to attend her Muse, but instead found someone else with her where there should be no one.

"Gurtha a' lle, Rauko!"

((Death to you, Demon!))

She hissed those words and drew her katanas from her robes, leaping toward the man with his hands on her Lady Muse.

[Yumi]

As he was turning the corner, he could see Yumi drawn into herself and thought he could hear some sniffling. Dropping the logs off near the pit the ninja goes over to put a comforting hand on her shoulder, "What's wrong Yumi? Was it something I said, if so I am sincerly sorry, or was it something else?"

Yumi wiped her eyes before turning to look at Karasu.

"I'm sorry, it's nothing really. I guess...I guess your story touched me in some way."

She gave Karasu a weak smile trying to assure him that she was fine. She then noticed the young man standing nearby. Brightening her smile, she walked towards him.

"It's been awhile," she said to the young man, "So these are friends of yours?"

[RPTink!]

Magatsu

Magatsu smiled, pleased at being remembered.

It is you!
I have wondered if I might see you again. *I fear I do not know these people. *Chance has brought them here on this of all days.

[Ilyhandra]

"Yes! :twisted: " Hito says with a rather evil smile on his face, "I must say that your Scourging was the best performance I have seen from you yet. The sorrow coming off of you was almost palitable, it was all I could do to keep from looking away. Through out my entire career, I have seen sorrow on many faces," he says slowly stepping towards Lotus, "Faces of victums, faces of those I stole from, and faces of those I have tortured, but none of them could compare you." He says running a hand down her cheek, "It was perfect, an emotion that could only come from a Muse and I was not disapointed. It was so delicious, I could taste the anguish coming off of you, and I knew that I needed you," He says leaning over to lick her neck. "But that was my intention from the begining, to get you to be stripped of your honorable position and become something as human as that b@stard you seem to hang out with. Then there would be no one to stop me from taking you back to my lair to do..."

Before he could finish, Midori hisses at him causing only a slightly disapointed look to cross his face, "Well, it looks like the slave whench thinks she is a samurai now and want to stop the evil ninja? Alright then, let me give you the first lesson," He says as Midori charges. Quick as lighting his hand reaches into the fold of his costume, drawing out a small dagger, painted black, throwing it at the slave, embedding it into her shoulder, going straight to the shoulder blade. "Samurai never win, they have honor, but no imagination." Soon the black 'paint' that was on the blade soon became evident, as the posion in it starts to course through her system.

[SillyLittleClones]

~*Lotus & Midori*~

Lotus screamed.

"MIDORI!!!"

The slave had fallen back to the dirt and straw, clutching her shoulder with a trembling set of fingers. Her chest heaved but she would not give this man the satisfaction of her cry. She showed no pain as she sat up and tried to stand... but then she felt her legs turn to jelly and she fell back down to her knees. Her long hair fell down over her shoulders and she finally felt her body tremble. She reached a hand to the dagger and inhaled sharply before pulling it from her body. Midori looked at the blade. Poison. She dropped the blade and remained hunched over as she tried to keep her breathign calm, her heartbeat low...

Lotus looked horrified.

"You orchestrated my shame? You did this?

She was against the barn wall, knee-high in hay. She turned her head from him as he licked her. A foul cruel thing, this man. A sudden anger filled her like none she'd ever felt before. She raised her hand and slapped him across the face, hard. Immediately she pulled her hand back and put it to her lips with a gasp of shock at herself. She'd never struck anyone before. Still... she held onto that and looked at Hito, trembling. Beyond him, she glimpsed Midori slowly inching out to the front of the barn, dragging a trail of blood behind her. But she did not let her eyes linger there. She looked at Hito and gave him surprising defiance, willing Midori to make it to the front of the barn.

"Do you have no honor!? I will go nowhere and do nothing with you! You have caused enough shame here. Leave!"

Midori, wheezed and crawled across the hay and dirt. In her hand, limp where she had been stabbed in the shoulder, she dragged her katanas. Her other hand clutched the dirt as she looked to the door of the barn. Her throat was tight, too much to yell. She couldn't breathe. She was too far to reach the doors, so she reached back and took a sword in her hand. As best she could, she threw it against the barn door making a loud THUD! She lifted her second sword and readied to try again...She thought in desperation: please someone hear me!

[RPTink!]

Magatsu & Omi

Magatsu turned back towards the barn door at the sound of a faint thud from within. *He walked back, trying to think of a possible reason for the noise with no success. *If all was well, both ladies would be at the back of the barn. *So who made the noise by the door and why?
Despite his concern, Magatsu hesitated at the door, afraid to foolishly intrude. *He could feel his heart beat against his ribs with an inexplicable fear, but couldn't bring himself to act, secretly praying for counsel.

The young man's prayers were answered almost instantly in the form of Omi. *The 35 year old ronin, who seemed to have disappeared from sight and mind, now stood beside Magatsu.
Without a word, Omi pushed back the barn door and stepped inside, with Magatsu peeking inside from behind him.

[Yumi]

Before Yumi could say another word, Magatsu turned and walked back to the barn in a hurry. She turned to look at Karasu before following behind Magatsu, curious as to what might be happening.

[Ilyhandra]

When Lotus slaps him, Hito just keeps his head to the side after getting smacked, then slowly turns his face back to face her with a grin on his face. He then brings his arm back and backhands the ex-Muse across the face sending her to the ground, in a second he was upon her, hissing into her ear once again. "Of course I have no honor, I am a ninja, if you want honor get a samurai, if you want to get the job done, get a ninja." Taking ahold of Lotus' hair he lifts her to her feet, "Oh, I have not yet caused enough shame to you. At this moment you are a parriah, little better than that escaped slave over there, and I am the Okashira of my Clan. It is well within my rights to do anything and everything I want to you, and I plan to do so..." Hito then holds Lotus tight, giving her a rather agressive kiss that lasts for a minute.

***********

When Yumi, Magatsu, and Omi started to run over to the barn door Karasu spun about on her heels, "What the heck was that?!?!" Rushing forward to the barn, the ninja stops to look at the downed Midori, "What happened here?" He says looking up, he sees a rather familiar figure dressed in black was kissing an almost naked Lotus. Momentarily the half-breed saw nothing but red and growled at the beast defiling Lotus, "YOU!!!! You were at the Scourging and called for my death! Now you are here molesting Lotus!?!?!"

Letting go of the ex-Muse, Hito says with a smirk, "Only as much as you did my dear mongrel. That and I think that even now, such a creature as she is still too pure for a beast like you, she still needs some more defiling and I will be all too happy to comply."

[Ilyhandra]

Glaring at the rival ninja, Karasu said through his teeth, "Foul beast, I know us Oniwabanshu are not the most honest beings in existance, but even that is going too far! Now, let go of Lotus unless you want to be missing a throat!"

At that the evil ninja could only laugh, "Ah, such an ill concieved threat, it is obvious the Anikazie never tought their initiates the finer arts of witty banter. But I definately not going to let my little flower go, I've already put so much work in on my prize and I seriously doubt you could stand against my Guizatiano sword style with what ever crude swinging those carrion pickers teach..."

At this indignaty Karasu let out a roar at the dishonor Hito had inflicted on the memory of his father, wanting nothing more than to gut this b@stard in one motion. When the half breed was about to slash at the opposing ninja's expose side, but in a split second, a sword came out of it's sheath, deflected the blow, and proceded to give the half breed a rather nasty gash across his chest. Gasping for air, Karasu could barely look up at Lotus from the intense pain coursing through his body.

Laughing once again with his mocking, gratting laughter, Hito said, "Oh that was too easy, I thought you half breeds were supposed to be tough, but then again, I guess that is why your kind are usually killed at birth. I know that if I had a kid like you, I would stone them to death myself, even if it was a girl." Turning back to Lotus, Hito holds her tightly and nuzzling her hair, "Speaking of which I should probably stop lodering about in this dump and take my new courtisan to her new home." With a graceful leap, the dark ninja carries Lotus up into the rafters of the barn, hopping out through the door on the second floor, and off into the night laughing.[/anchor][/goto]