Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Nov 18, 2011 17:21:46 GMT -5
OOC: this thread is a direct continuation of what happened at Shiro Kitsuki with Manji rokuganee.proboards.com/index.cgi?board=dragonhq&action=display&thread=1612. It depicts a series of unfortunate events that will lead to his arrival at the battlefield outside Castle of the Swift Sword. I will post the story in parts, probably three, to easy the reading for those who feel like following it. The events here depicted will have serious impacts on him and represent a turning point in his life, after this, if he survives, he will no longer be a boy.
The idea for this thread came from many things, some of which you may know, one of which is this song (which most of you probably won't like, but I'll post it anyway since the lyrics completely kick ass and have everything to do with what will happen): grooveshark.com/s/The+Witch+s+Heart/2Ce4k6?src=5A Dragon of Ash and Shadow (卍字の神隠し) - First Part (Hatred)The Kami's Roads - Obsidian Fortress, on the path to JigokuManji was violently pulled through pitch black icy waters for what it seemed like an eternity. When he finally lost his breath and began to drown, he was trusted forcefully through the surface of a pond and hurled through the air, landing violently upon cold, wet, hard packed earth. He was bleeding considerably from wounds suffered during his unwilling voyage and a sharp pain in his chest made him aware of a couple broken ribs. The fox struggled to regain his composure and, even though suffering, assess where exactly he had been brought. It was then that he felt the warm sensation coming from the nemuranai on his right arm. The crystal beads glowed faintly and a feeling of sickness began to grow inside him... he looked around carefully, it seemed as if he was in the gardens of a fortress, but the trees were all blackened and twisted, a disturbing mockery of their rokugani counterparts. A strong rain was falling angrily from the starless sky and the only lights visible came from lanterns mounted alongside the vast fortress' walls and from the interior of sparsely distributed military buildings and halls. The landscape’s bleak outlook was accentuated by a smell of ash coming from the rain water, so strong that it could almost be tasted. As Manji realized where he was, a chill ran through his spine and a sense of doom took hold of his heart. From the darkness, the fox heard two voices arguing in the distance. The first was deep and guttural, hurry up you useless mongrel, I've heard something coming from this direction, and the second was sharp and grating, I'm going, I'm going. These blasted lanterns are a pain to light amidst all this damned rain. They should assign that cursed Ninube for patrol, she can see in the dark, to which the owner of the deep voice replied, shut yer yap stupid. She only recently arrived but may already be listening. Manji moved as fast and silently as he could towards a hall at the end of the garden, trying to ignore the sharp pain in his torso, and silently hid himself in the space below the raised floor. There he meditated for a while, employing a Kiho called "Ride the Water Dragon" taught to him during the time spent under Tamori Moriya's tutelage. His wounds gradually closed and he felt invigorated, but the feeling of sickness caused by the strong presence of the Taint persisted. He observed the garden from his hideout for a long time but the voices were silent and he neither heard nor saw anything but darkness and nothingness. Suddenly, he heard the guttural voice again, but this time it roared from above him, gotcha!Manji didn't have time to think, he cursed his carelessness silently and tried rolling to the side but it was too late. A huge hand crashed through the wooden floor, grabbed the fox by his long white hair and pulled him up aggressively. It was then that he saw his opponent. Standing over 10 feet tall, the creature was almost double Manji's size. It's body had a dark blueish hue and was protected by a thick layer of leathery skin. It's head resembled a human one but it had huge tusks, a pair of bull like horns and black eyes with blood red pupils. It wore what appeared to be common military pants and sandals but it was naked from the waist up. Its body sported an absurd amount of bulging muscles and Manji thought immediately that this seemed to be the strongest being he ever met personally, at least physically speaking. Most frightening of all, the Oni carried a huge metallic kanabō with only his left hand. The monstrous being held Manji in the air by the hair, looked him quizzically in the face and his sudden burst of laughter boomed throughout the empty halls, A KID!? And here I was expecting some great enemy of mine, what a disappointment! What are you doing here boy? Lost your mommy? Cold sweat ran down from Manji's forehead, every fiber in his being told him to be afraid, to run, but he calmed himself, mustered his courage and said in a cold voice, I wonder who's going to regret this more... the Oni looked him with disdainful amusement and Manji kicked it straight in the face with all his strength. The monster roared with rage and pain as half of his left tusk broke and his face burned as if touched by crystal. Before the fox could do anything else, the Oni launched him with amazing speed into the air and struck him full in the torso with its kanabō. The force of the blow was such that it threw Manji through the wooden wall, breaking many of his ribs again and dizzying him as he landed rolling across another room's floor. Crystal, such a dirty trick, said the Oni with contempt while spitting out a tooth, I will slowly break your body and feast upon your essence, there is nowhere for you to run... but it abruptly halted its gloating when he saw Manji emerging from the rubble and walking forward, his wounds closing with each step he took. His two white tails moved hypnotically behind him and a cold, murderous look was stamped across Manji's face, all fear burned by the cold hatred that took hold of his heart. I won't run, the fox said in a dead, chilling tone, nor will I merely defeat you... I will erase you from existence, impure beast, as he assumed his fighting stance, black flames swirling around his arms. Something was clearly wrong, for neither hatred nor fire came easy for Manji, but here, in this accursed place, both embraced him like a lost lover and the flames produced by him were as dark and deep as the starless sky outside.
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Nov 26, 2011 11:00:22 GMT -5
A Dragon of Ash and Shadow (卍字の神隠し) - Second Part (Darkness)Obsidian Fortress - Halls of AnguishThe dark flames greedily devoured the room’s faint illumination, creating a gloomy penumbra, but either Manji didn't notice or he didn't care. He had eyes only for his opponent and no thoughts nor doubts plagued his mind. With preternatural speed he lunged forward. The Oni, who had way greater reach than him, tried launching a horizontal sweeping blow with its powerful kanabō. The fox didn't hesitate and, in the right moment, slid below the Oni's weapon, targeting its legs with a kick. The Oni acted fast, avoiding Manji's attack with precise use of footwork and trying to stomp his leg. The fox rolled sideways as the over-sized foot landed heavily on the floor, breaking through the wooden boards and temporarily imprisoning the monster. Seizing the opportunity, Manji landed an atemi with his fiery fists in the Oni's gigantic right arm, followed by a quick punch to the torso that burned through skin and flesh alike, making the creature disoriented. The Oni roared in pain, angrily raising its kanabō with its left arm and swinging it down, in a crushing motion. But the size of the weapon combined with the Oni’s long arm made it hit the ceiling and slow down, giving Manji ample time to step aside. He nimbly circled the abomination, climbed its back with sure steps and grabbed its head with both hands. Desperate, the Oni tried in vain to shake the fox from its back. Manji held on tight, reached into the void, spoke words he didn’t remember knowing and the creature was engulfed in a shadowy pyre that seared its flesh and ate its essence. It all happened so fast that the monster didn’t even have time to scream. After the fire extinguished, only a silhouette made of ashes and shadow was left over the wooden floorboards, to mark what the Oni once was. Manji stood motionless in the middle of the room, trying to grasp the extent of what had just happened. As the flames circling him slowly died down, he felt the hatred within his heart subside but he still couldn’t understand what he had just done. What exactly was the influence this place had on him? What were those flames? But those were questions for later because now he had to focus on surviving and getting out of here as fast as he could. It was then that he felt a surge of terrible pain coming from his arms. He looked at them with surprise, realizing both were badly burned, almost as charred and trashed as the room itself, which now lacked a wall, a part of its ceiling and many floorboards. He fell down to his knees for a moment, trying to control the agony that rippled through his body and focus long enough to heal, but the burns refused to accept either spell or kiho. The fox felt that the inner balance of his elements was off and that these wounds were, at least for now, beyond his magical capabilities. When he thought things couldn’t get much worse, an alarm blared off in the distance, followed the by the disturbing voices and screams of innumerable inhuman beings on march. He stood there for a moment, trying hard to think a way out of this terrible situation, one that wouldn’t result in either a horrible death or endless suffering. Then, from one of the corners of the room, he heard a voice say, in a low, sarcastic tone, you're alive, impressive. My master will be most pleased. But you would do well to follow me now, unless you feel like testing your newfound… abilities… against an army of Oni. ![](http://img684.imageshack.us/img684/8397/tek4eceaf6ed88198308918.png) He looked to the corner and saw a female figure (he thought it was female, but it was hard to tell because of her black clothing) stepping out of the shadows. She made a motion with her hand for him to follow, saying quickly, this way. And be silent, they'll be looking for you, as she grabbed him by the shoulder. Despite his senses being dulled due to the sickness caused by his prolonged exposure to the Taint, Manji felt no evil intent coming from the figure clad in black and decided his best option was to accompany her, for now. The fox raised himself from the ground and feebly followed the sinister emissary through pitch black hallways. How she knew the way he couldn't tell but from her movements he deduced that she could, at least, see in the dark. Obsidian Fortress - The Garden of NothingThey threaded together through utter darkness for some time. The weirder part of it was that his eyes should have started adapting to the lack of light after some time, but here, wherever here was, the darkness was absolute. When the woman stopped, she said in an ominous tone, we've arrived. With a voice full of doubt and suspicion, the fox asked, arrived where? She let out a deep sigh and asked in an incredulous tone, you really have no idea of the power you hold, do you? then she commanded, stop relying so heavily upon your physical senses, to see the truth in any of the worlds you have to use your mind's eye. Close your eyes.He didn't know exactly why, but he obeyed her nonetheless and closed his physical eyes. Now, reach out into the void. The darkness simply conceals the true shape of the things that are and of those that will be. It acts like a protective mantle that may obscure, nurture or destroy. Calm your soul, understand the darkness and you'll see the truth. Manji struggled against pain, fever and weariness but, once he calmed his mind, there was nothing else to him but the darkness. After time beyond counting, where once there was nothing, now he started to feel the subtle details of the place surrounding him. They were still indoors, upon a trail of stones and hard packed earth located amidst what seemed to be a garden. Around them there were many candles that exuded a faint smell of lotus and formed a path leading towards a large, imposing door circled by gofu. The gofu were composed of strange symbols that gave off an impression of tremendous power, but Manji could not identify the spirit they represented. Only once had he felt truly terrifying power in his life but the kind of power present here far surpassed the one held by his ancestor, the Kyuubi, and it was of a whole different kind. While Kyuubi could show malice or aggressiveness when necessary, he was essentially a trickster, a teacher and someone who broke conventions, one who could act freely outside the Celestial Order. The spirit here contained, whatever it represented, was darkness, nothing and malice incarnated and it bore the mark of Jigoku. Still, Manji could feel that this spirit had once been a noble being, which made its current reality that much more bitter. He unconsciously averted his eyes from the portal and looked inside himself for answers. There he found his own history imprinted in blood and void alike, he saw his own darkness, the frustrations that spawned his newfound hatred and he understood what he had to do. He looked to the shapeless woman, truly seeing her for the first time, and thought to himself, Ninube... but his hatred didn't stir for he also understood her role in all this. Here, she wasn't his adversary; she was merely a guide, a herald of something greater. There was no escape, the only way to leave this place would be to risk everything he was and face the Nothing beyond the door. He trembled at this realization and the pain suddenly came back, washing through his body in waves, but he fought hard to keep it in check. The Ninube looked at him for some time, then said, with an almost sad voice, this is your first step towards comprehension. Enlightenment, as some would surely like to call it, is a dangerous thing that may very well destroy you during your quest. This is your first sacrifice. Step forward and remember that, to cross that threshold, your heart must break.The fox walked silently through the inner garden of the fortress, following the path illuminated by the candles. He stood before the huge wooden portal and, before opening it, he said, the next time we meet, we will be enemies. From the shadows, a faint voice answered, I know. He replied, in a pensive tone, thank you, pushed the door open with his scorched arms and disappeared into the darkness.
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Dec 6, 2011 16:53:17 GMT -5
OOC: before I conclude the current story, I've decided to post a quick intermission that will help shed light on some elements concerning Manji's history and give me a bit more time to finish writing. For the record, I'll also post here the two versions of Manji.Manji before "A Dragon of Ash and Shadow": Manji after "A Dragon of Ash and Shadow": EDIT: Almost forgot, this one is Kyuubi (Kyuubi isn't his name, of course, but everyone calls him that. Very few beings know his true name): A Dragon of Ash and Shadow (卍字の神隠し) - IntermissionChikushudo - Heavenly Jade Mountains, Kyuubi's personal chambers (56 months ago)Before you return to Ningen-do, I have a gift for you, said Kyuubi with a uncommonly kind voice, as he offered Manji, with both hands, a weird box made of white wood. The boy extended both his hands to accept his ancestor’s gift and made a deep, heartfelt reverence to him. Inside the box he found a set of crystalline o-nenju but, before he could express his gratitude, the Kyuubi continued with a very serious voice, pay close attention to what I’ll tell you now my son. When you leave the protection of our realm, you will face many dangers. You are no longer human and they will not understand you, some will dislike you for what you represent, others will mistrust you for what you are. The common people will show you reverence, for with you the blessings of Inari will walk and you must show them reverence in return, because both our patron Fortune and the Empire would be nothing without them, he let off a deep sigh and looked at the boy with concerned eyes, but that is not all. You, and some of our descendants, stand at a special place because we are part of the Celestial Order but are also outside it, Manji made a puzzled face but, before he could interrupt, Kyuubi raised his left hand, indicating that he should wait, and continued, know that some will covet both that power and our special link with the other animals. They will seek to change you, to control you and to destroy you. The moment you step outside Kitsune Mori you’ll be in danger…I understand Kyuubi-sama, but I still must go, was the boy’s honest answer. Yes, you must. And that is why I’m gifting you this nemuranai. It will help you focus; it will aid you in learning how to control your shapeshifting and your Void abilities. It is also made of a special crystal; it will protect you from the sickness caused by the influence of Jigoku and will be poisonous to all those touched by the Taint. The most important part though, is that it houses a powerful spirit, an old rival who once owed me a favor, Kyuubi paused for a moment, trying to find the right words, when you find yourself in a difficult situation of which there seems to be no possible escape, when hatred and despair find their way into your heart, say these words… the White Fox murmured the correct words into the boy’s ears, utter his name and scatter the o-nenju. It will both warn me and free the spirit, after which you will be able to temporarily tap into his power. Manji was growing increasingly restless and worried by his ancestor’s concern but the White Fox hugged him affectionately and concluded, You’ll know the time when it comes. Now, you remember what you must do right? Yes, the boy nodded his head, I’ll warn my mother that a tutor will arrive shortly to oversee Chizuru-chan’s training, then I’ll make my way to the Dragon and seek my grandfather, Tamori Moriya. Good, once you arrive there and are safely under the care of Moriya-sensei, I’ll send Ayame to make you company. I imagine you both would like that, the boy let out a visible smile. Kyuubi nodded, then continued, pay as much heed to your grandfather as you would to me, he is a wise man and will help you control the gift and burden of the Void. Nothing but the best will be expected of you, after all, you are my descendant and must rise to act as such. I swear, I will not disappoint you! said the boy eargerly, I know and I know your desire is heartfelt but, from now on, be mindful of what you swear for our words are binding, we live and die by them. And, most of all, do not disappoint yourself. Now go, Ayame will help you with your final preparations, then guide you to the place where you may cross back to Ningen-do, she knows the ritual. We will meet again Kyuubi-sama, don't worry, the boy said while offering the older Fox a deep, respectful bow, then hurried to meet Ayame. Moments after Manji had left, Kyuubi replied, with a sad voice, while looking at the crystal clear waters of the large divination pool inside his chambers and thinking about the arduous path ahead of Manji, yes my boy, we will, we will…
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Dec 14, 2011 11:34:02 GMT -5
OOC: Hello everyone. This will be the final part of Manji's story. After it, I'll make a very small epilogue to wrap things up (you'll understand why I'm doing this once you reach the end). First I thought about making a pool to decide his destiny but, since I don't know if anyone will have the patience to read everything and vote, I kinda gave up on the idea. But, if any of you have specific thoughts on the matter of what happened or what will happen to him, feel free to send me your opinions.
I would like to thank all those who took the time to read this story, especially Mitsouko (who helped me with proof-reading and for her unending patience and advices), Koichi and Enishi (for just being the great guys that they are. Thanks for your support). And sorry for taking all this time to finish writing, not only was the end of my semester very hectic, one of my HDs (the one with the OS) died on me last week, causing many annoyances.
A Dragon of Ash and Shadow (卍字の神隠し) - Final Part (Despair)
Obsidian Fortress, on the path to Jigoku – Sky (Present Day)
He was falling fast, through darkness and a heavy rain. The wind blew so strongly that the young fox could barely keep his eyes open. Small crystals of ice flew swiftly through the air, colliding against his bare skin and adding new slashes to his already beaten body. Manji was trying to puzzle when exactly did he begin to fall but it was hard to tell. In the Spirit Realms, time, space and form are all subjective, being passive of manipulation by powerful beings; sometimes, their mere presence being enough to influence their surroundings. And he knew that he was now in the domains of a very old spirit, whose power was so great that he couldn’t help but shiver constantly and uncontrollably. Never before was he so conscious of his own powerlessness, never has he been so afraid, for the visions he had when he crossed into the Nothing were still fresh in his mind. Despair took hold of his heart as he questioned himself, was it all for nothing? Are the children of Amaterasu truly so blind? Thunder sounded ominously in the distance and lightning crossed the sky. During that brief moment of light, Manji glimpsed something; it was as if the whole sky moved itself around and towards him. Before he could think about it, he was embraced by the shadow, gently caught mid air by… what had just caught him? He couldn’t tell. He only knew that he wasn’t falling anymore, although he could still feel the heavy rain and strong wind against his skin. He was standing over something solid, he didn’t know what but it was clearly alive. With his sense of touch rendered useless by the heavy burns sustained while wielding the dark fire, the only thing he could really discern was a strong smell of ash coming from all around him.
From the darkness came two bright emerald lights and for a time it seemed as if the whole sky was bathed in green. But their size gradually adjusted, until they resembled a pair of eyes. It was then that he heard it for the first time, a voice that would haunt him for many years to come. The voice was power, it was Nothing. Welcome to my domains Manji, child of the Dragon and the Fox, messenger of Inari, it said, in a strong, imperious tone, followed by a gentler statement, Pardon me for the lack of hospitality. My servants here are useful for many things but, unfortunately, entertaining guests is not one of them.
Who… the fox tried to speak but his voice failed him. It was very hard to calm his own spirit, especially with his elemental balance messed up. He touched his o-nenju in order to focus, using the Void to clear his own mind through the utterance of a mantra. But inside himself, instead of the tranquillity he sought, he found only rage. He shouted defiantly, trying to be make himself heard despite the multitude of sounds that populated the darkness, I am at a disadvantage here. You know what I am but I don’t know what you are. A good host would at least reveal himself. An amused laugh sounded from all around him. Manji could clearly see the emerald eyes shining amidst the darkness, but the voice… it boomed across the sky in such a way that it was impossible to tell where it came from, because it came from everywhere. Have you learned nothing young fox? You already know the answer to that question. You saw it before you crossed the threshold and you can feel it even now. You are merely denying the truth out of fear. When you accept it, your vision will become clear. Manji tried reaching into the void to see past the darkness but his mind saw only the dark fire. It hungered and raged, a terrible craving like nothing he had ever imagined. Still, the true meaning of his predicament eluded him and he tried to shut the rage away, for he knew he would need his wits more than never now. But the rage had a voice and deep within his mind he could feel it demanding, release me!
The first thing he realized, once he managed to calm himself, was that Emerald Eyes’ voice could be heard despite thunder, rain and wind, for it was speaking directly into his mind. Two can play this game, he thought, may this rage become a shield to protect my mind. Manji grasped the o-nenju, gathered his remaining strength, focused on the dark rage and opened his mind, then he sent out a thought, what purpose does my presence here serves? Emerald Eyes’ answered, Good, you’re a fast learner. As to the question, your people are elusive by nature and it’s rare to find you outside your own realms, especially one such as yourself. Since we both have information the other wants, when I’ve learned of your whereabouts I decided it would be in our best interests to have a conversation. In our best interests? I was brought here against my will and nearly died in the process, Manji replied defiantly, to which Emerald Eyes said, in a mocking tone, if you had died before reaching me, that would’ve have proved you to be unworthy of my attention and you are not dead, are you? Also no one can be accepted into this sanctuary unwillingly. You’ve proceeded as far as you have because you wished so, which proves to me that I was right about you. What do you mean? Power, Manji-san, power. You recognize it, you feel it and you crave for more, yet, you wield it like a child would, said the Emerald Eyes with stern voice, as if he pitied the fox. You have remarkable power at your disposal, for one so young. There is within you the potential to become one of the greatest shugenja that Rokugan has ever witnessed. Yet, what have you done with that power? You’ve squandered it with cheap tricks used to mend the foolishness of others. You’ve been blindly walking down the road of your own destiny but, make no mistake; you’ll win no favours with the Kami by submitting yourself to what dictates the Celestial Order. For them, that is duty, not virtue. Break your destiny Manji-san, defy the Heavens and lend me your power.
But what good can power do if used only for oneself? It is true that many of my efforts have been roundabout, but that was necessary considering the conflict that threatens to consume the Empire. If I had wielded my power openly, not only would I be feared for what I am but I would also be unable to walk amongst those who needed my help and thus save their lives. What good does you this power when you know neither yourself nor your enemy? Your efforts, despite being noble, are doomed to fail. I don’t ask for you to flaunt your talents, but to learn how to use them and, by doing this, free yourself. And what have you to gain of this? In what fashion do my talents benefit your wishes? Knowledge is what I seek, so that I may understand. Especially in what concerns your ability to communicate with other animals and see through their eyes.
Although he knew that not only his life but his very existence was at stake here, Manji was still incapable of seeing the whole picture. Despite his odd and unfavourable circumstances, he felt no deception coming from Emerald Eyes’ voice. But the darkness did more than hide the true face of his interlocutor; it also hid pieces of the truth from the fox, making him doubt his own decisions. Deep inside his own mind, a faint voice whispered again, release me! While there’s still time…
Then, would you suggest that I trade uncaring masters for an unknown one? he asked with a hint of sarcasm. On the contrary, I do not ask you to serve, I ask you to cooperate with me. And by doing so, you may avert a great disaster, was the ominous answer. Still, in our existences, everything must serve something, be it a purpose or a master; and not one thing of value can be acquired without proper sacrifice, as he echoed the words his ancestor had once told him, a fond memory of his time in Chikushudo came to mind and, almost instantly, he could feel the rage burning inside him again. The fox grinded his teeth, fighting to control the fury, then continued, please tell me, what tragedy do you speak of? A shadow looms over Kitsune Mori. The Foxes, especially your sister and other gifted younglings, are in grave danger. There are forces interested in the gifts possessed by your people and this war is the perfect cover for an attack against those you love. But, you can stop it all if you align yourself with me. I can provide you with the knowledge you need to protect them. I also know what befell your father and your uncle, all those years ago. This knowledge is at your reach, you simply have to lend me your help.
There was simply too much he didn’t know, how was he supposed to reach a decision without even being aware of who, or what, he was talking to? Yet, a decision needed to be made. The young fox held on tight to whatever it was that was carrying him across the skies, he simply stood there, for a long time, feeling the strong wind and the rain against his face. There was only darkness around him, only nothing and he felt compelled to agree with the spirit, after all, what was his life when compared to those of the ones he loved? He knew what the consequences would be to him but wasn’t this worth the sacrifice? close your eyes, so that you might see… said a very faint voice, deep within his mind, so subtle that he might’ve thought it was his own conscience speaking. Oddly, he was reminded of when Kyuubi gave him the o-nenju he carried in his right arm. Never had he felt the presence of that spirit, was this it? He closed his eyes, touched his nemuranai and thought, please, lend me your strength. I am far from home and here, my power alone isn’t enough. Remove my blindfold… but no answers came to him. Within himself there was confusion, fear and the fury, the black rage that accompanied him ever since he arrived in this accursed place. Is this your rage? Is this where you are? he thought silently and opened his heart to embrace the rage. Deep inside himself, together with his disillusions, with his frustrations and his destructive desires, he found it. A black fire that wasn’t a part of him, another being, weakened by a long time of imprisonment and it wore the shape of a nine-tailed fox. It’s eyes were red like blood, its fur made of black fire with flickering blue patterns and on its forehead stood a third eye, with a purple iris. Manji fixated his gaze into the fox’s mind eye and through it he saw and his world shattered with the conscience that there was no leaving here alive, because now he knew where here was.
A majestic dragon of abyssal proportions flew gracefully across the starless sky above the obsidian fortress. Its scales were like ash, its mane was shadow, its eyes… its pristine emerald green eyes were Nothing and on its back stood a small, powerless and desperate little white fox. Hatred and despair… did you know this would happen? Manji thought to himself while thinking about his ancestor. To the Shadow Dragon he answered in a soft tone, trying to find the strength he needed by holding his o-nenju tightly, you’ve said that I have the power to break my destiny and defy the Heavens. You’ve said that my family is in danger and that there’s still time to save them. I will gladly sacrifice myself for them but I won’t give you my life. The Dragon snarled back, little fox, your effort is commendable but ultimately futile. You are in my Realm, if you resist me, your destiny is death! Then he forced his consciousness into Manji’s mind, trying to possess him. A terrible wave of memories and thoughts he couldn’t comprehend flooded the fox’s mind, sapping his reason, free will and strength. In a last, desperate attempt to survive, he gathered whatever was left of his strength and shouted in a defiant tone, this is me breaking destiny and defying the Heavens! I refuse to die here. I may not be able to resist you, but a fox always has a trick, then he scattered the beads of his o-nenju.
A surge of power unexpectedly coursed through Manji’s being, driving the Shadow Dragon’s conscience away from his mind with a violent backlash. During the few instants when the Dragon stood stunned, Manji ran desperately and threw himself from its back, jumping into the empty sky. In a last effort, he focused all the power available to him to do what only his millennia old ancestor could and ripped a portal through the Spirit Realms, mid-air, using only the rainwater as a passage. The last words he heard before crossing over shattered his heart, don’t worry, there are still your sister and the other children.
Spirit Realms – Somewhere along the Kami’s Roads
After fleeing the Shadow Dragon’s grasp, all the power abandoned Manji. He had no energy left, his body was fatally injured, his mind was exhausted and visions related to the Dragon’s memories plagued his thoughts constantly. He walked through the ghostly scenery for many hours, with only one thought on his mind, I need to reach the Swift Sword… Koichi-sama, he needs to know about the Shadow Dragon. When he couldn’t walk anymore he crawled, trying to find a reflective surface somewhere along the way, one last crossing was all that he needed. After much searching, he finally found a beautiful pond beneath the shadow of a large white tree, but by then he was already half conscious and nearly dead. He dragged himself to its margin, placed his burned hands in the clear, cool waters and knew that this was the end of the road for him. The cold slowly seeped into his tired being, giving him a final moment of respite before he finally closed his eyes while thinking, Koichi-sama, Chizuru-chan, I’m sorry…
|
|
Tamori Koichi
Dragon Clan
Dragon Clan * Shugenja * Earth * Void * Yamabushi * Duelist
Posts: 228
|
Post by Tamori Koichi on Dec 14, 2011 18:33:58 GMT -5
please tell me this is the part where I drag you back to reality. ;D
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Dec 15, 2011 11:34:34 GMT -5
Koichi, you are much too kind my friend. I'll PM you about it ;D
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Dec 15, 2011 19:39:11 GMT -5
OOC: Ok, I know I've said this would be only a short epilogue... it's not so short, sorry. But it's not as big as it seems either, I'm simply using more spaces between the speeches I feel like a little explanation about the time passage is needed. The whole thread happened in what appeared to be a day for Manji, but in ningen-do, three weeks have passed since he disappeared from Shiro Kitsuki. At the end of this thread, the conflict between the Dragon and Lion armies in CotSS will at its peak. Also, pardon me for any mistakes I may have committed while using the kanji, my knowledge of japanese is very rusty.A Dragon of Ash and Shadow (卍字の神隠し) - Epilogue (In search of a lost friend)Spirit Realms – Somewhere along the Kami’s RoadsAs the world grew increasingly silent, darkness covered the young fox’s eyes. When he opened them again, he wasn’t lying by the serene pond near the white tree anymore but in a room inside the unmistakable alchemical foundries of Shiro Tamori. Magical fumes and heat filled the ambient; as Manji slowly rose up, he noticed that both his wounds and the constant pain that dulled his senses were gone. A familiar voice spoke from right behind him, you remind me of a young fox I once knew, many centuries ago, who also refused to accept his destiny. He calmly turned his head to find the other fox, with its body composed by flickering dark flames, standing near the room’s entrance. Expecting the worst, he asked pensively, am I dead?
Not yet, but you are very close to it, as am I. If nothing is done, our lives will fade away very soon. Where are we? We are at the only place we could have this conversation, the centre of your own being. I know why I am dying, your power, it was too overwhelming for me to control. But you helped me trick the Shadow Dragon and for that, I am very grateful, the young white fox paused for a second, then said in a cordial tone, although I feel we’ve known each other for a long time, we were never introduced. I am Tamori Manji, it is an honour to meet you. Manji offered the dark fox a courteous reverence, then finished, now, please tell me, why are you dying too? Weren’t you supposed to be released when I broke the nemuranai? The dark fox grinned, as blue patterns flickered throughout his body, I see that Kyouseikyuubi (狂星九尾) trained you well. You may call me Yōko (妖狐), for that is what I am. As you’ve told the Shadow Dragon, we foxes always have a trick. Kyouseikyuubi’s was that I would finally die if ever released from my prison, for I am weakened and no longer have the means to fashion myself another physical body, but, he ultimately underestimated my strength and your resolve. Kyouseikyuubi? Do you mean my ancestor? He said you were rivals once and that you owed him a favour. Yōko huffed dismissively, we were like brothers once, until the Nothing stole away that which I loved the most. I did what Kyouseikyuubi wasn’t willing to do and we ended up enemies because of it. But that is a story for another time, a time that may not come, depending on what we do now.Manji felt a strange empathy towards this being. He didn’t know why, because, if judged by his appearance alone, Yōko would be frightening. His ember red eyes, the dark flames that formed his body, the opened mind’s eye upon his forehead… everything about him was unsettling. But to the young fox, he felt like an old acquaintance. And what can we do? The dark fox sighed, our powers alone aren’t enough to keep any of us alive, unfortunately. And help, albeit on its way, is still far from our reach.Help? But no one knows where I am. The one you call Koichi knows. He sensed your presence the minute we entered the Lion Clan territory. But he won’t be able to arrive in time to help because of the on-going battle. So, we must help one another. How? You need energy and I need a body. If you accept me within yourself, we may combine our efforts in order to survive. This will also allow you to withstand the dark flames, like I can. They usually consume anything they touch and ignore all resistance to fire. That is because they are not native to ningen-do and work under different principles than the common fire. Know that what I offer you is a great honour and I am only doing this because you were able to control the dark flames, to some small degree, without being consumed. You have potential but you are still too young, I can help you shape this into true power. In exchange, you will protect my essence and give me means to interact with the physical world again. What would be the consequences of this to us? This is one of the few things I cannot say for sure. There are multiple possible outcomes and I cannot predict them or how we will harmonize with one another. I can only tell you two things. First, this is no mere possession; I will become a part of you, at least for a time. Second, you’ve said you wanted to defy the Heavens and your own destiny? Well, we were destined to die after you've decided to confront the Shadow Dragon; if you accept my proposal we will thwart fate and our destiny will become ours to shape.Manji remembered the Ninube’s words in the Obsidian Fortress and knew this was one of those moments where, to attain something, he would have to risk everything. This would be his greatest trick, the most dangerous gamble, that and he truly felt compelled to help Yōko. He walked towards the dark fox, touched his face with both hands, looked deeply inside his ember red eyes and said yes.Lion Territory – somewhere near the Castle of the Swift Sword (3 weeks after Manji’s disappearance from Shiro Kitsuki)Even from a distance, the sounds of battle filled the air, along with the smells of fire and blood. Manji walked feebly towards an abandoned hut, in the vicinities of the castle. After his experience within the Realms Invisible, he was a changed man. He had cut his long hair short, with the help of his tantō; his jade green eyes assumed an ember red color, like those of Yōko; and his dragon tattoos were now tinted in shades of black, with green and blue engravings. Shortly after entering the house he collapsed upon its mattress, but still managed to send a last message to his daimyo before falling unconscious. Somewhere in the battlefield, the wind kami whispered to Tamori Koichi: Koichi-sama, if you are here, please, I need your help. Something terrible happened when I was in Shiro Kitsuki. I… too weak… sorry…
|
|
Enishi
Dragon Clan
Ninja * shadow * tattooed * Mad prophet of Nothing
Posts: 254
|
Post by Enishi on Dec 21, 2011 11:12:59 GMT -5
That day, Enishi dreamed of dancing shadows and faceless warriors. None of them were friendly.
Your enemies are closer than you think, nothing whispered to him as he sat motionless in an empty shrine near the Castle of the Swift Sword, waiting for the night to harass the defenders again. He could not remember when he had eaten last; he often forgot about such trivialities for days on end. He needed nothing to sustain him.
Visions of fire, blood and destiny had led him to the Castle. Here, he could nearly feel the Celestial order shaking on its base under the assaults of men. It came as no surprise that his enemies would be there. So far however, he had found no trace of the corrupted Goju nor of the hidden servants of the Dream master, only the misguided followers of the Usurper. Things, it seemed, were about to change.
His whole body shuddered as new visions flooded his mind. He could feel it now - the passing of a being of enormous power. Enormous and blasphemous, the purity of nothing mingled with the stench of Jigoku. He would have felt fear if he could. Instead, he emptied his mind and let himself disappear. He felt nothing, nothing at all.
The dragon left at last.
His corrupted aura did not fade completely tough. Something remained behind it, or rather someone. At first he mistook it for a Goju, but that was not it. The stench of the dragon was not part of that someone, whoever it was. There was something different, something dark and wild and unpleasantly chaotic, but something not tainted.
Enishi's eyes opened. He had to know. He briefly focused his senses on the shadowy aura, traced it to an empty hut he had occupied himself a few days ago, not too far away. It was too close to the battle lines to be a long-term shelter for someone hoping to avoid patrols though. He had to assume its current resident had nothing to fear from Dragon forces.
Enishi seized his jingasa while his body shifted to take the garish appearance of a tattooed monk. He left the shrine and headed to the nearby hut, in search of this new enigma.
|
|
Tamori Koichi
Dragon Clan
Dragon Clan * Shugenja * Earth * Void * Yamabushi * Duelist
Posts: 228
|
Post by Tamori Koichi on Dec 22, 2011 13:08:35 GMT -5
At the Dragon command tentIt was faint, very faint. But the Tamori daimyo heard it nontheless. The message had arrived . It was clear. Manji was here somewhere. Koichi quickly laid out on the table the latest scouting report of the area. He closed his eyes and cleared his mind, focusing only on finding Manji. His spirit channeled through the ground trying to pinpoint the exact location. " Found you." As the image of a slumped shugenja inside a hut became clearer inside Koichi's mind. He let go of the spell and looked back to the map and marked the location he had seen. " That's within enemy territory my Lord." came the voice of the young woman who until only now had been quiet the whole time. " There will most likely be enemies within the area." She smiled. " But knowing you, of course we're still going." " Quite astute as ever, Shizuku." Koichi returned the smile. " Gather the others. We leave immediately to retrieve Manji." " I thought you'd never ask." replied Shizuku with an even bigger smile. Outskirts of the Castle of the Swift Sword Seven. That was the number of men running if one could count them. In the middle of the group was the Tamori daimyo himself encircled by his house guard. " We're getting closer." said Koichi without breaking pace. " Enemies to the front my Lord." said Yashamaru, the burly man at the front of the formation. A few paces ahead was a group of Lion troops. " About 20 troops my Lord." came the immediate statement of Shizuku. " A Nikutai, fourth from the right. Nobody important enough to know. What do we do?" " Kill them all." ordered the Tamori daimyo without the slightest hint of remorse. All six nodded in synchronization. The group slowed slightly. Hyouma and Gendo, the two shugenja flanking Koichi's front sides, withdrew potions and then threw them to the enemy squad. Hands of earth then appeared from the ground and clamped onto the Lion samurai. Others managed to evade the earthen assault but were not free from trouble yet. A fireball enveloped a part of the Lion squad, incinerating some instantaneously. The few remaining fell to the blades of the yamabushi in the Tamori daimyo's house guard. The skirmish was over before it even began. Manji's Location Koichi group finally arrived at the hut. They approached carefully to check if anybody had arrived before them. Sensing nobody else Koichi proceeded inside. " Kuroro. Machi. Yashamaru. The three of you setup perimeter while I go check on Manji." ordered Koichi. Inside the hut, Koichi found the unconscious form of the missing Tamori hatamoto. Koichi rushed to his side, but an eerie sensation coursed through Koichi body upon touching Manji. Manji was quite different now. His physical body had been altered but moreso was what was happening inside. Koichi felt it. Another entity. It was there but it was dormant for now. He would need to look into this further but first he must save Manji. Koichi uncorked a vial and let the healing energy flow. The energy flowed towards Manji, slowly giving strength back to him. Koichi watched unable to do anything more at that point. Thoughts swirled in his head. What had caused this? A whisper escaped his mouth. " Manji, what have you done?" ooc: sorry for the long and nonsensical post. I was quite enjoying the Tamori House Guard card that I decided to integrate it and kill some Lions while doing so. LOL. I really don't know how you guys want to proceed with this so I just cut it to my group arriving to where Manji is. Just inform me what you want to happen next.
|
|
Enishi
Dragon Clan
Ninja * shadow * tattooed * Mad prophet of Nothing
Posts: 254
|
Post by Enishi on Jan 2, 2012 18:40:57 GMT -5
Enishi sensed them before he could see them - or be seen, which was a blessing. Problems.
Maybe the foul smell of tainted shadow had hidden them, or maybe they had just arrived. In any case, his quarry wasn't alone anymore. He calmed his breath, calmed his mind, let the world flow around him and without him. Where he was a mere moment ago, nothing remained to be seen.
There. Green and golden armours and robes: at least he wasn't going to fall into a Lion trap. He studied the mons of the Dragon patrol for a brief moment, and could barely refrain a step back. He had seen those men a few times since he had arrived at the Castle of the Swift Sword, but he had heard of them often. Lion soldiers talked of them in hushed tones in the dark of night when new fires erupted. They were the Tamori houseguard, personnal servants of Tamori Koichi.
Enishi sensed trouble ahead. He also sensed opportunity. Among the very small circle of men and women that could lead him to the secret he was tracking, the Tamori daimyo was probably the most accessible since its Kitsuki counterpart had gone into seclusion and the Dragon champion had left its clan. Of course, if half the wild tales circulating about him were true, he was probably also the most dangerous. But strange situations could make for strange allies... He just had to make good use of circumstances.
Enishi breathed in slowly, focusing on this place, trying to feel the power of nothing, trying to understand what had happened there.
Only a few minutes had passed when the Tamori houseguard suddenly spotted a man approaching, making no effort to hide himself. The man's torso was covered with bright inks that depicted familiar symbols: a dragon, a crescent moon, a scorpion. His golden eyes alone were enough that he could not be mistaken for anything but a kikage zumi. Yet the houseguard did not let their guard down. The man's face was unknown to them. "Who goes there? State your name and purpose!" Kuroro shouted, his voice cold and ever so slightly threatening.
"I am Togashi Enishi. I have come to this place in the hunt for a most foul creature, Tamori-san, and I can but worry if maybe you found it before I did. Be warned that what I am seeking spells doom even for the bravest among men."
He slowly extended his arms, showing he was unarmed.
"I only mean to carry on with my hunt. You have nothing to fear from me."
Though fear was certainly not what he felt, for a moment Tamori Kuroro could not help but wonder about the kikage zumi's dark grin.
|
|
Tamori Koichi
Dragon Clan
Dragon Clan * Shugenja * Earth * Void * Yamabushi * Duelist
Posts: 228
|
Post by Tamori Koichi on Jan 3, 2012 11:01:51 GMT -5
Kuroro's grip on the handle of his katana did not lessen even when the monk showed that he was unarmed. It even tightened more. The Togashi were unpredictable, dangerous with or without a weapon. They had tattoos which granted them abilities that even shugenja could not fathom.
The monk's grin sent an ice-cold chill down the houseguard's spine. But Kuroro kept his stance. "Www.. wait where you are. Do not move." He slowly backed away without averting gaze from the monk. Machi and Yashamaru had already sensed that somebody else had appeared.
"Inform Lord Tamori that somebody else is here. A monk named Enishi." Kuroro said. Machi and Yashamaru nodded and quickly entered the hut.
Inside the hut, Koichi was still trying to heal the injured shugenja. Machi did not want to disturb him but it was needed so she spoke up. "My Lord, our position has been compromised. There is a monk here. I am afraid that if he has found us, the Lion will find us as well. We should probably go."
Koichi broke the connection with Manji. It was difficult to heal him completely at this state, at this place. What he was able to do had to suffice for now. He stood up.
"Yashamaru, carry Manji. We need to get him back to the Tamori provinces. I need to research on his condition first before proceeding any further with his healing. I would not want to harm him by doing something that might make his condition worse."
The large man picked up Manji and slung him across his right shoulder. The group then walked outside to where the monk Enishi and the houseguard Kuroro were still engaged in a staring contest.
Koichi stared at the monk before him, trying to gauge him. There was a huge aura that surrounded the man and Koichi's eyes seemed to play tricks on him. The man's shadow appeared to shift form every time the Tamori daimyo blinked.
Koichi was unsure of him. He had to make sure. The fire in the Tamori daimyo's eyes began to grow.. A simple jade strike should do.
But before Koichi could cast the spell, he felt a hand grip his shoulder. "We really should go my Lord." stated Shizuku.
Koichi let the magic dissipate. Shizuku's statement rang true. They really had to attend to Manji, in a far safer location. Koichi looked again to the monk. He seemed normal now. Maybe it was all in his mind afterall. He had been going nonstop with this war. The transportation ritual with the Asahina had also drained him much. Koichi needed rest as well.
Koichi nodded to the monk. "You must excuse us brother Togashi. One of our numbers is injured. I do not understand how you came to be here but I do not believe in coincidence. If there is reason for our meeting, maybe we should discuss it in camp."
Koichi faced his houseguard. "Let us go." Hyouma brought out another vial and released the concentrated "Wind Born Speed" spell upon the group.
"Do try to keep up Brother monk." Koichi said to Enishi before the group sprinted away heading towards the Dragon army camp.
|
|
Enishi
Dragon Clan
Ninja * shadow * tattooed * Mad prophet of Nothing
Posts: 254
|
Post by Enishi on Jan 3, 2012 13:12:02 GMT -5
Though Enishi didn't flinch, he couldn't refrain the briefest moment of relief. For one second he had been certain the Tamori daimyo was going to hurl some horrific vortex of destructive energy at him - then the man had changed his mind. He took a quick glance at the slumped form the Dragon were carrying. That man - if it was indeed a man - was the one he had felt. Enishi had never seen someone like him, but at least he could confirm there was no shadow taint in the stranger. There was something else, something primal and chaotic and bestial burning brightly for the trained eye to see. Something possibly as loathesome as the Taint, yet unmistakably different.
There was no point in trying to keep up with the patrol while it was carried by the air kami, so Enishi let them go. He would catch up with them soon enough. He kneeled on the ground of the hut, where the stranger had been lying, and focused his mind on what had happened there. Soon enough, he could hear the whispers from nothing.
***
Barely an hour later, sentinels at the Dragon camp stopped an unknown kikage zumi that, after introducing himself, simply asked to be led to Tamori Koichi's tent. Former servants of Hitomi were a rare sight even among the Dragon of late, and so the news spread quickly among the soldiers stationed there and reached the Tamori houseguard in no time.
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Jan 3, 2012 17:59:49 GMT -5
OOC: Been hearing Neurosis lately and it got me thinking. Guess I'll make a post about visions, memories and hallucinations had by Manji while all this was happening in the physical world. I'll edit this post and fit it here once it's done (it should be by tomorrow).
I think this music reflects very well what's been happening with him. It's name is Black, performed by Neurosis, in the album Pain of Mind.grooveshark.com/s/Black/2I49PA?src=5Lion Territory – On the way to the Dragon EncampmentUnaware of what was happening in the physical world, Manji kept hearing a sad female voice singing repeatedly deep inside his mind try to remember everything that's lost... I try to remember everything that's lost.He found himself walking fast through a thick bamboo forest and by his side walked a young white fox. Inside his own heart he could feel intense despair and frustration, a sadness beyond words, and then the white fox told him please, calm yourself brother. Nothing can be done about it now, she is lost to us. No good will come of acting brashly. Manji answered but the voice which he heard was different from his own and the words weren't his words, Calm? How can you ask me to be calm? She was one of us. I LOVED HER! Damn it all, damn it all to Gaki-do and Jigoku. I swear it... brother... if none of you are willing to do something about it, I'll put an end to this even if I must sacrifice everything I am to do it. She deserves this much from me and I will honour her by destroying the mockery that took her place. The images faded away slowly and he heard the voice of the young white fox ask, but where will you go once you've lost your way? Where will you go when there's nowhere to go?For a time, there was only blackness. Then a female voice broke the silence …try to remember everything that's lost. It's the only way you'll control it. What you’ve embraced is not a gift, it’s a curse. The path of the dark flames is a hard one to walk, none have ever mastered it, many were consumed by them and you'll find no solace in it. Manji noticed the silhouette of what appeared to be a woman in front of him, the temperature was hot and the air heavy. She spoke again here I will test you, here you will train and if you cannot control the flames, everything that you are will be consumed by them, you’ll cease to exist. Are you ready? Manji felt himself speaking again, with the voice that wasn’t his, I stand my ground, I will not stray. Good, because your enemies have arrived. First, I want to see you fight without the aid of your fire... as she spoke those words, the images became clear to the young Tamori shugenja. They were in a cave, deep below the surface. The woman talking to him was wearing a kimono of light red silk with orange engravings, although Manji could not discern the images formed by them; she appeared to be in her mid-thirties, her eyes and short hair were bright red like embers, her skin had a coppery hue to it and she was clearly gaijin. There was a peculiar attractiveness about her but she was not what held his attention. All around them he could see shadows moving eerily and amidst them dozens of deformed beasts crawled; the nauseating stench of corruption was everywhere. But he did not flinch, nor did he hesitate. Against his will, his hands reached for his saya, from where he fluidly unsheathed a katana made of clear crystal, and then lunged forward in an offensive motion. Despair, sadness, dreams shattered, a love lost and hatred, so much hatred… all of these feelings fed the flames and they consumed, scorched and purged everything in his path until nothing was left of his enemies and of himself. The images shifted quickly, so many places, so many horrors, it was impossible for Manji to even think about translating his visions into words, they were beyond what words can express and they carved their meaning into his very being. At the end of it all, there was only emptiness, the peace of the Void, and it was then that he killed her. She had been beautiful once, a young fox maiden of brownish hair and fair skin, with a warm smile that could melt even the coldest ice as easily as it had melted his heart. But that smile was no more, replaced by an empty yet malicious grin, touched by madness and evil; her beautiful green eyes were devoid of colour, their life absorbed by the nothingness of white. The best part of himself died with her that night. As he lay motionless on the floor of a misty landscape, his old friend arrived but he was his friend no more. In the eyes where he once saw brotherly affection, now he could see only cold resolution, his old friend spoke brother… what have you done to yourself? Why go so far? Everyone is afraid of you; our brethren calls you demon fox now. Why have you returned? This is where I belong, he answered in a dead tone, where everything began and where it must end. Wise, I stand my ground, I will not stray. Do what you must, for I did what needed to be done, I have no regrets. Manji saw clearly now, the white fox in front of him was his ancestor, Kyuubi, in the prime of his youth and before he had nine tails. I am sorry… was the last thing Manji heard before that misty world disappeared. Manji heard screams, pleas for mercy and tormented cries of agony as the darkness took shape again. Mixed to the sounds of suffering, an evil, uncaring laughter could be heard. He was now amidst the ruins of an old city, which somehow he knew was Otosan Uchi, the former capital of the Emerald Empire. Physical distances seemed to not matter to him and he walked from shadow to shadow as if they were part of a single unity. He had never seen, much less experienced, this form of travel and quickly became disoriented by the pace with which one place turned into another. When the shadows stopped changing, he was inside what seemed to be the underground ruins of a room. Its walls were made of stone; the ground was hard packed earth and in its centre stood a man garbed in black shugenja robes, spotted by drops of fresh blood. Around him, six persons formed a circle and were hanging from the low ceiling by their feet, throats cut, with their blood slowly flowing down and falling into bowls of obsidian, neatly arranged below each victim. The shadow stood still in a corner, as the man chanted the last words of his unholy ritual. Once finished, he spoke it is done. All the pieces are into place, it shouldn’t be difficult for your servants to get a hold of my son now. He is still young and careless while traveling through the Invisible Roads. Once in the fortress, he shouldn’t be capable of escaping your grasp. The man walked to the outside of the circle of bodies to look straight at the shadow in the corner of the room and Manji saw his face. His black eyes had turned into an emotionless sea of white, his hair was greyish and brittle and his smile was full of malicious intent. Still, that was a face that Manji could never forget, a face he have yearned to see for many years, the face of his missing father. How can this be? Father, what have they done to you? As the vision shattered and darkness took hold of the world once again, sadness and hatred filled Manji’s heart. But a familiar voice warned him, there are much more to the Dragon’s memories than this but they are very hard to interpret. Now we feel the same rage again and know what must be done. Yes. That evil must be erased so that our father can be set free. Now we calm our heart and control the hatred. The man we saw wears our father’s skin but he is not our father. That is our uncle. There are much for us to learn and do but things are different now, remember our family, we still have people to protect, whereas in the past we had only a loved one to set free. Manji wanted to cry for his lost father, for all the hatred and sadness he had witnessed. But his tears were dry; the dark fire did not allow weakness or frailty. So he emptied himself and embraced the Void. Now was the time to heal, to live once again and to feel everything he had forgotten during his long imprisonment. He knew that the time to unleash the hatred would come soon, it always did. On the waking world, during the whole travel from the abandoned hut to the Dragon’s camp, Manji kept murmuring one phrase over and over while being carried by Yashamaru. A phrase whose meaning no one but he could imagine, wise, I stand my ground, I will not stray.
|
|
Tamori Koichi
Dragon Clan
Dragon Clan * Shugenja * Earth * Void * Yamabushi * Duelist
Posts: 228
|
Post by Tamori Koichi on Jan 8, 2012 8:56:43 GMT -5
The Tamori daimyo would have slumped into the ground if Gendo had not assisted him when the group finally arrived back at the Dragon encampment.
"Bring Manji to the infirmary. I will look into his condition more when I have rested for awhile. All of you are dismissed for the meantime. Take rest as well. Report back to me as soon as you can." Koichi made an effort to stand on his own, slowly inching away from Gendo. "Thank you Gendo-san." The male shugenja bowed and left. Shizuku made a concerned motion of staying behind but Koichi waved her away with a struggling smile before entering his tent.
Inside the tent, the Tamori daimyo's table could now be seen lined with stacked scrolls, no doubt new reports on the developments in the siege. Koichi ignored them for now, and quickly proceeded to his mat. He let his body crash there. The strain of the war, the massive ritual at Kyuden Tonbo and the retrieval mission finally getting to him.
About an hour later...
"Koichi-sama.." Shizuku's voice trailed inside the Tamori daimyo's tent. Koichi woke up. He rarely got time to enjoy the simple pleasure of sleeping well enough since the war started. "What is it Shizuku?"
"The monk Enishi is here to see you." answered the female. Koichi stood up, dusted off the dirt and straightened the folds of his kimono before taking seat at the back of his command table.
"Allow him in."
|
|
Enishi
Dragon Clan
Ninja * shadow * tattooed * Mad prophet of Nothing
Posts: 254
|
Post by Enishi on Jan 9, 2012 18:14:00 GMT -5
Enishi took a slight breath before entering the Tamori daimyo's tent. Be like the mountain and your enemies will never reach to your head. Be like the ocean and your enemies will never see through to your heart. I'm getting the hang of the Togashi stuff, he thought to himself. As if to contradict him, visions began to dance in the back of his mind, of enemies slain at the base of the Great Climb, of roaring fire deep within the earth and of crystal chambers of scorching light. For all his wisdom, Tamori Koichi was a boiling volcano of boundless anger and energy, and his strong connection to the void only amplified the feelings he projected around him. His power was like a raging tornado echoing in Enishi's blank mind. Everything he loathed. Everything he lacked. Everything, as opposed to the purity of nothing. And now he was going to try and deceive that man, armed only with a handful of half-truths and a lie that, he hoped, would be pleasant to the ear. He felt strangely alive as he passed the tent's entrance.
He took it all in: the simple and functional lodgings, the intricate maps on the table, the imposing form of Koichi seated besides it. The stranger with a soul full of chaos was not present, which could be a good thing or a bad thing. He bowed briefly, with a deference more suited to a soldier saluting his commander. "I apologize for the time it took me to catch up to you, Tamori-sama, although I am sure you put it to good use. I got embroiled in a heated theological debate with a Lion patrol and had to offer them a broader experience of the great cycle." He grinned for a brief moment, then his face grew somber. "The Lion are not what is bothering me right now, though. I have sensed a darker force at work shortly before we met and I do not think it is a good omen for our battle here."
|
|