PaulHaynek

Tales Of Shizuyama (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

Terauchi Temple

~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~

"Your Lordship, I fail to grasp how you can be so calm about this!"

Shizuka Kannazuki

Takeshi was actually taken aback from Shizuka's outburst. "I-I thought this was normal behavior for yokai. They are obsessed with sex and pleasure, after all." The young lord scratched the back of his head.

He then watched Shizuka tell off Kerry about the irresponsible pregnancy. Takeshi was surprised that the Hornet yokai answered back, declaring that she would be staying here with Alice even with a child incoming. The young lord was not sure... No, he was sure this was foolish. Raising a child in a warzone was one thing, raising a yokai child in Shizuyama in front of his father? Takeshi could not imagine the wrath that would visit the nascent family.

Still, that was the future... and the future could change. The island was supposed to be doomed, and that did not come to pass.

"But, right now, I need some time to rest. I also haven't eaten anything all day..."

Shizuka Kannazuki

"Food, eat. Need strength for fight."

Gringor

"Ah, well, how about some good old rice and fish then? Sorry there isn't much variety. We don't exactly have access to classier goods and Komatsu Bay had just been liberated so it'll be a while before your Lady Kyouko's supplies get here." Takeshi explained. "But don't you worry! I'll prepare the feast myself and you will all have a taste of the heir's culinary skills."

Despite his confidence, Takeshi's dishes of steamed rice and fried-to-a-crisp fish were nothing out of the ordinary.

Eula and Carroll attempted to dine and dash... but as the defenders of Terauchi Temple, the dishes they ate for the night were free of charge. Which was fortunate for the Automaton.

---THE NEXT DAY---

The taskforce rested until morning, the day they would take on the students of The Heavenly Strike technique. But the sun did not greet them when they woke, instead they opened their eyes to cold winds blowing across the temple. The breezes were not strong but they carried the occasional raindrop. Dark and thick clouds blotted out the sun, preventing the heavenly body from warming the land. At least, the clouds weren't thick enough to completely block sunlight.

Takeshi and Revuel stood next to each other as they observed the bad weather, the latter wearing his full armor to stave off the cold. "This land's weather drives me crazy..."

"Well, the frequent downpours of this island do make the soil fertile." The young lord responded. "We're used to it.

Indeed, the refugees of the Terauchi Temple went about their day normally as if it was any other morning.

---

---

---

~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~

The Shadow Of The Taskforce {END OF ACT I}

(REQUIRES ALL PLAYER CHARACTERS)

"I finally have all that I need to rescue my father from the Varjans. The only thing missing now is where the invaders have him imprisoned. I'm coming for you, father. Just wait a little longer."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TAKAMORI TALES ~~

The Past Never Passes

"Lord Takamori's traitorous former student, Setsuna, is training Mongol archers across Shizuyama. Lord Takamori posits that she plans on attacking Omi Springs, his hometown and a refuge for villagers. We should meet with Lord Takamori as soon as possible."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SORAE TALES ~~

The Traitor

"Sorae is on the hunt for Sogen, one of the conspirators behind her family's murder. To track him down, Sorae has asked us to speak with Ayu who may know where we can find him."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SHIZUKA (MERCHANT) TALES ~~

The People's Servant

"One of the farms near Komatsu Bay looks like it's had some trouble. Someone should make sure the people there are all right."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~

Whispers In The Woods

A villager woman remarked to the taskforce member as the latter passed by.

"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."

"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."

The Other Side Of Honor

A peasant man eating barbecued meat on a stick was startled when the taskforce member approached. It appeared he has news.

"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."

"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."

Shizuyama's Freedom

A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached.

"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."

"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained. Better take Lord Takeshi with you too or else it might be a fight again."

Bottoms Up

A peasant man warming his hands on a bonfire noticed the taskforce member passing by.

"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."

~~ LEGENDARY TALES ~~

The Heavenly Strike

"Dealing with these students of the Heavenly Strike was more difficult than we thought. They have already thrown back two of the taskforce. However, the yokai fought them separately and at different times, so perhaps a more cooperative approach would be more fruitful."
-Takeshi Oja

Iskah And The Incubus Knight (Xaltwind and PaulHaynek)

Southern District

@Xaltwind

"Looks like we're walking from here on then. Good thing we aren't in a hurry to get a room at a decent inn or anyhting, right? We wouldn't want to spook the locals with our man-eating summoned horse after all."

Vanessa

Iskah could only laugh sheepishly, sympathetic to Vanessa's magical plight but can do little to the city guards' orders. "L-Look, they said we can still cast magic. Just... not anything grand and flashy like... a lot of your spells." Well, at least the Lizardman tried her hand in consolation.

The city guards said nothing more to Vanessa's sarcastic remarks and resumed their patrol, allowing the Lizardman and the Dark Mage to enter the capital and head towards Wayland Keep.

Nothing major happened to the duo as they walked through the bustling streets of Linirea, only that the crowds became thicker and thicker as they passed through the walls. Unlike in the other Ortusian towns and villages, Iskah and Vanessa spotted monsters walking with the crowds. No one noteworthy, just monsters like Holstaurs and Kobolds. They even saw a stall selling general goods, managed by a crew of Goblins. This crew even had a couple of people browsing their wares. Perhaps because of this, Iskah seemed more relaxed here than in the previous towns.

The walk continued being quiet until the duo encountered a commotion in the streets. A small crowd had gathered and blocked the duo's way, before something darted to the air and hovered there. It was a pink, angelic figure holding an equally pink bow. Heart-shaped decorations adorned her revealing clothing. Short, pink hair, brown-skinned with a white cap, she was undoubtedly a Cupid - a servant of the goddess Eros.

"You are all in pain! The Goddess only wishes to bring levity in your trying times! Do not let your hearts be fully darkened by the war! Lest they become as dark as The Order's whom you fight!" The Cupid declared to the crowd before flying away. "I shall return..."

The city guards accosting the Cupid all shook their heads and told the crowd to disperse. Iskah could only sigh at the scene. "I think I already said this before but ever since the Chief God and The Order betrayed Ortus, divinities and their servants are no longer welcome in the capital because of their association with The Chief God. Eros' Cupids and Houris, Bacchus' Satyrs, the whole lot. The royalty thinks they could be spies for The Chief God." The Lizardman then bit her lip. "To be told that your feelings and convictions aren't real, I know all too well..."

"Anyway, we're getting close to Wayland Keep." Iskah changed the topic. "Got any plans in mind? I know we're restricted in magic, but something like invisibility is totally fine. Also, if we can nab Aun in one fell swoop, then that's worth getting thrown out."

Iskah And The Incubus Knight (Xaltwind and PaulHaynek)

"Well, no time like the present. Let's get moving before your friend realizes the only thing at the orphanage is your boy's lingering stink and a gaggle of his little siblings."

Vanessa

Iskah stroked the summoned steed as it nuzzled against her cheek. "...Yeah. Let's."

The Lizardman-Dark Mage duo set forth. It took them a day of travel before finally reaching their destination...

---

Linirea: The Lunar Capital

---

Southern District

@Xaltwind

"Here we are. Linirea, Ortus' capital."

Iskah and Vanessa trotted to a stop at a hill overlooking the aforementioned capital. The sprawling, metropolitan city was vast and situated next to a great river, befitting the capital of a kingdom. The stone walls looked quite high, even from this distance, and farms, workshops and homes flowed out of the city walls. The most prominent sight was the castle that sported unique blue roofs in the middle of the city, the seat of Ortus' royalty.

"We're entering from the south, and Wayland Keep is at the western part near the river." Iskah said, but not pointing it out. Spotting the keep from this distance was futile anyway. There were plenty of large buildings but only the castle stood out in appearance. "Hopefully, the guards don't recognize me when we approach."

Of course, the first thing that Iskah and Vanessa encountered upon descending the hill and onto the southern outskirt town of Linirea was a patrol of four city musketeer guards stopping them. "Halt! You're one of those lizard monsters that's been harassing The Incubus Knight!"

Iskah cringed from atop the horse. "Err... Yes, I am." She answered honestly, albeit reluctantly. "Wait, why am I singled out--!"

"We have orders to bar your entry should you continue harassing The Lot Knight." The musketeer guard cut Iskah off. "Are you here to harass The Incubus Knight?"

"Uhh... no?" A bald-faced lie from a shrugging Iskah.

The guard shrugged and the tense encounter suddenly relaxed. "Good enough for me. You may pass." He then suddenly raised his hand to stop the two monsters. "Before I forget, try not to cast too much spells in the city especially flashy ones. With the war against The Order flaring up again, anti-magic sentiments are on the rise again. Careless casting of magic inside the capital might set off a riot, something me and the other boys don't really wanna deal with."

"We'll keep that in mind. Thank you." Iskah was unnerved at the warning since magic was Vanessa's main strength.

"That also means no summoned beings either." That caught Iskah by surprise, and she sheepishly looked at her Dark Mage partner to see what she would do.

Tales Of Shizuyama (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

Terauchi Temple

~ @Restalaan (SKA) ~

"Huh, so what made you change side Revuel? Usually you folks always scream to high heaven and hell that you're gonna kill us all. Well, welcome to Shizuyama, it's the current rainy season so bring an umbrella wherever you go."

Skarsneek

"That decision was made for me, Sir Skarsneek." Revuel cordially replied. "It's a rather long and complicated affair but let's just say that once my Legion swore loyalty to Varjo, they did not consider me and many others as one of them."

"And worry not about me concerning precipitation. If I am sufficiently inconvenienced, I can simply conjure a simple barrier to drape around myself and ward off the water." The spellcaster smirked. "Although I have to say, the weather in Shizuyama is quite erratic."

---

~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~

<O’ FRABJOUS DAY~! You [Recipient Name Here] are so cordially invited to the Alice and Kerry’s Bachelor/Bachelorette Double Feature Heavenly Strike Reclamation Party For Tying Up Loose Ends Before A Big Rescue Mission!! RSVP! Or, be a loser, and don’t!>

A magical invitation sent by Alice materialized in front of the taskforce members, detailing an excursion to finally deal with the traitorous students of the Heavenly Strike technique once and for all. The sender was still somewhere outside Terauchi Temple with Liliana so a rendezvous will be needed if any of the taskforce members wanted to inquire about the details.

"A-And......hehe......I'm also carrying.....our unborn.....c-child."

Kerry Maros

"Ah, so Alice is a guy? Wait, that's not right, that's my stick."

Skarsneek

"Ahh, so that's what Revuel was being cagey about." Takeshi emerged from behind Shizuka. "And yeah, Revuel also thinks that Alice is a guy and I guess, this is what he meant about that. I may have to recontextualize and reconcile some memories if that's true..."

"Anyway, not even a week has passed and you two already have a child coming? I've heard the thrill of battle stimulates our reproductive instincts, but this is on another level!" Takeshi then laughed at his own remark before his gaze at Kerry became concerned. "But seriously, though. Like, really seriously. You're going to battle while pregnant? Don't you and Alice think that's... You know, reckless?"

"And yes, I know that you and the taskforce are potentially heading off to battle. I snuck a peek on the invitation on Shizuka." Takeshi casually revealed. "And it looks like Alice wants to go after the Heavenly Strike students with all of you. Hmm, it's about high time that threat gets dealt with. Let me tag along and let my blade be of assistance." The young lord suggested.

---

---

---

~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~

The Shadow Of The Taskforce |END OF ACT I|

(REQUIRES ALL PLAYER CHARACTERS)

"I finally have all that I need to rescue my father from the Varjans. The only thing missing now is where the invaders have him imprisoned. I'm coming for you, father. Just wait a little longer."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TAKAMORI TALES ~~

The Past Never Passes

"Lord Takamori's traitorous former student, Setsuna, is training Mongol archers across Shizuyama. Lord Takamori posits that she plans on attacking Omi Springs, his hometown and a refuge for villagers. We should meet with Lord Takamori as soon as possible."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SORAE TALES ~~

The Traitor

"Sorae is on the hunt for Sogen, one of the conspirators behind her family's murder. To track him down, Sorae has asked us to speak with Ayu who may know where we can find him."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SHIZUKA (MERCHANT) TALES ~~

The People's Servant

"One of the farms near Komatsu Bay looks like it's had some trouble. Someone should make sure the people there are all right."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~

Whispers In The Woods

A villager woman remarked to the taskforce member as the latter passed by.

"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."

"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."

The Other Side Of Honor

A peasant man eating barbecued meat on a stick was startled when the taskforce member approached. It appeared he has news.

"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."

"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."

Shizuyama's Freedom

A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached.

"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."

"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained. Better take Lord Takeshi with you too or else it might be a fight again."

Bottoms Up

A peasant man warming his hands on a bonfire noticed the taskforce member passing by.

"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."

~~ LEGENDARY TALES ~~

The Heavenly Strike

"Dealing with these students of the Heavenly Strike was more difficult than we thought. They have already thrown back two of the taskforce. However, the yokai fought them separately and at different times, so perhaps a more cooperative approach would be more fruitful."
-Takeshi Oja

Iskah And The Incubus Knight (Xaltwind and PaulHaynek)

Pagras

@Xaltwind

"Hunting a single man with a pack of half a dozen... I thought I'd heard somewhere that you salamander-girls were very keen on the whole honor and fighting fair-schtick. Guess those're just rumors after all, huh?"

Vanessa

"Oh, those kinds of Salamanders do exist. You know what we call 'em? Single!" Katelyn then laughed out loud at her own joke, but Iskah and Rie only sighed.

"Well then, are we done scoping out the competition, or do you want to see the rest of this one's crew before we leave?

Vanessa

"Leave? Isn't Aun just at the orphanage?" Iskah sounded genuinely confused by Vanessa's question.

"Orphanage, huh?" Katelyn immediately picked up on the detail. "Well, don't mind if I do!" The Salamander patted both Iskah and Vanessa on their shoulders before speedily taking off to Pagras' orphanage, where the latter two met with The Incubus Knight earlier.

Rie boarded her wagon and was about to go follow before realizing that Iskah made no other move despite Katelyn heading out. "...He's not at the orphanage, is he?"

"Nope." Iskah shrugged. "There are children to sell toys to, though."

"...I'll go get my boss." Rie tugged the reins of her horses and the wagon took off at a steady and gentle pace. The streets of Pagras was still full of people after all and the Gyoubu Danuki knew there was no point trying to salvage the situation for her Salamander employer. "I'll see you two around. Don't forget to pick up the saddles of your magic horse."

After doing so, Iskah turned to Vanessa with a satisfied smirk on her face. "Well, best get moving before Katelyn and her crew catches on. Aun should be at the capital which should only be a day or less of travel from here."

Iskah And The Incubus Knight (Xaltwind and PaulHaynek)

Pagras

@PaulHaynek

"Curious. I've never seen a merchant who so readily abandon her livelihood to the hands of complete strangers. Was the smell of the knight that intoxicating?"

Vanessa

The Gyoubu Danuki shrugged, appearing not to catch the jab. "Definitely intoxicating to my Salamander employer." She replied. "She paid a pretty penny to help her snag The Incubus Knight, you know? Didn't know there's be rivals though, but I suppose that really shouldn't be a surprise considering the target." Putting her hands on her hips, she continued. "That said, that shouldn't be a detriment to business, you know? I'm still setting up shop in the capital and you can come buy stuff from me anytime."

"I assume you're just gonna sell them shoddy goods to sabotage them?" Katelyn piped in.

"Sorry, boss, but you're gonna have to pay extra if you want me to get in the way of love." The tanuki monster shrugged again.

"Anyway, this is Vanessa. I've hired her to help me with Aun." Iskah decided to introduce her Dark Mage ally. "Well, it's more like she answered my fliers at the promise of a reward."

"That's also called 'hiring'." Rie pointed out.

"Whatever!"

Katelyn the Masked Salamander then wrapped a friendly arm around Vanessa. "Well, it's nice to meet you, Vanessa! Cool hat, by the way!" She remarked. "May the best team win, eh? I hope you're playing for keeps 'cause my group isn't going to let up until I get to duel Aun." She told the Dark Mage.

Iskah picked up on a word in the last sentence. "Group? There's more than you two?"

"Yep! I've got, like, four companions including Rie!" Katelyn happily replied.

Tales Of Shizuyama (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

Shizuyama Wilderness

~ @Restalaan (GRI) ~

Fatal Pulse Strikes Again! (Collab with Restalaan)

But the mercenary had some tricks left in his sleeve before he could pass out, he unsheathed his swords and thrusted the blades at Gringor's face. The High Orc's physiology protected him from any sort of injury, but the pain did force him to release the mercenary.

"The name's Keith North, by the way. Just so you know what to call me and not have trouble talking about me." The mercenary introduced himself, for a strange reason. "I've danced with some of your fellow taskforce members too. Cost me quite a fortune, so I'm a little pissed at your little ragtag bunch of misfits!"

Keith then lunged at Gringor, swinging his swords at the latter with wild abandon. Confident that without his weapon, Gringor was defenseless.

Feeling the swords smacking against his face, Gringor gripped loosened for a moment before the mercenary took advantage of it and freed themselves in an instant.

His cheeks twitched fiercely at the impact as he let out a sharp breath as the latter introduced himself as Keith.

Hearing briefly that he had tussled with the others before, Gringor wondered who it was as they let up a good fight away.

Well, that means it's all his now.

Arms tucked closer as Gringor dodged the first few strikes and distanced himself.

The moment Keith chased after him, only then did Gringor raised his arm. Heedless of the risk and would've done the same move even without armor on him.

Blocking the blade with his limbs, it screeched against the armor as Gringor stomped forward mightily. His foot dug deep before delivering a sharp blow to the liver in conjunction, leading to a devastating counter-strike.

Following through, he grabbed Keith outstretched arm and proceed to keep raining more blows with the other hand. This time not planning to let go at all as he continued this brutal onslaught.

"Ow! Why the liver?!"

Keith was then subjected to an unending barrage of punches to his face. With one of his arms in Gringor's grip which held him in place, evading was out of the question. But the mercenary still had moves he could play, Keith blocked the next punch with his free arm before using it to lock Gringor's punching arm. He also did the same with the other pair of arms.

With their arms locked onto each other, Keith leaned his head back before delivering a sharp headbutt unto the High Orc's head.

*SMACK*

A commendable move, but the mercenary severely underestimated Gringor's physiology. The only thing Keith managed to accomplish with that move was knocking himself out, his body falling limp in the High Orc's arms. And with that, the fight was finished.

Gringor continued his furious barrage right until his arm was locked, then the other. Moving on instinct the moment Keith reared his head back, he readied himself for the oncoming move.

True enough, Keith forehead met his and Gringor felt the impact rearing down his own by returning a similar headbutt.

From that exchange, Gringor prepared himself for the next one since it was now his arena but Keith head lolled back and body slacked under his grip.

Gringor blinked for a moment before realizing that the latter knocked himself unconscious.

Hmm. Well, that was fun at least. Gringor sighed as he looked towards the sky. It had taken longer and fights probably been over since he can no longer feel it in the air.

His eyes then fell onto large cart now bereft of its owner before an idea struck him, hauling Keith across his shoulders, Gringor tore the trappings off, tied up Keith arms and legs firmly before unceremoniously ditching him in the cart.

With that done, Gringor took over the cart and pushed it back towards their base. It was his spoils of war after all.

It wouldn't take long for him to reach it, and once done, he decided to hand over the prisoner as well as show whatever he captured to the Warboss so they can divvy it up.

---

Terauchi Temple

~ @Restalaan (SKA) ~

"Probably wanted to 'convince' him to join the Varjans. Not standard tactics but there's precedence. That's how they managed to grow so fast over the years too. So we got some time, they'll need to reorganized too since they lost the momentum."

Skarsneek

"Ha! I sayeth most wondrous of luck with those folk!" takeshi respond'd to Skarsneek with utt'r confidence. "My fath'r isn't the most flexible p'rson out th're. Aft'r what the varjans didst, that gent wouldst asketh nay less than the varjan king's headeth bef're that gent can beest hath brought to the table. "

T'wast then yond Shizuka did pull Takeshi hence f'r a private chat.

"Also, who are you?"

Skarsneek

Revuel wast genuinely surpris'd to discov'r yond that gent and Skarsneek has't not hath met yet. "We has't not hath met? I wast h're at which hour the temple wast did attack, Sir Skarsneek. Well, I supposeth things w're going quaint festinate then. " the spellcast'r then clear'd his throat. "Allow me to introduceth myself. I am Revuel Arvida. F'rm'r warlock of the Scarce Legion, most of whom art anon assaulting this island. "

"I cameth at which hour I hath heard many scarce legionnaires gath'r'd h're. F'rtunately, I hath met with mistress Kyouko who is't did point me at the right direction. "

---
~ @AzureKnight (SHI) ~

Shizuka X Takeshi

Having returned to Terauchi Temple with his comrades, Shizuka would gently lay the sleeping Liliana on a jasmine leaf that stemmed by a tree next to a small pond. Double-checking to ensure she was alright, he then made his way over to Takeshi with a serious look on his face.

”Takeshi-dono.” He said. ”I have much news, some good and more concerning. Firstly, we were successful in liberating Komatsu Bay, thanks in part of the efforts of Ayu and her brother - who apparently shares a name with me…” Shizuka’s face showed a bit of exasperation as he mentioned his smaller, chubbier compatriot.

”However, I have more new anent the finer points of the Varjan invasion as a whole.” He pointed to the unconscious Na’Kratz he was carrying on his back. ”If you’ve any business you need to attend to currently, I suggest you do so first, as what I have to say will require some time for careful prep.”

“Huh. So Ayu has a brother named Shizuka? That… can get confusing.” Takeshi remarked. “Anyway, I don’t really have anything to do right now. Why don’t I join you in putting away that Varjan and you can tell me on the way?” The young lord was eager and impatient in getting news about the invasion. They were close to saving his father, after all, and any new developments must be known immediately.

Walking with the young heir, Shizuka would find a place to sit him down for a moment, as he then turned back to Takeshi. ”This man is named Na’Kratz.” He said. ”He apparently is one of the strongest Varjan commanders in the invasion force. We defeated him, however, in the battle that liberated the bay. What mainl concerns me is what some of the lower ranking officers have informed me of.” He looked at Takeshi with solemn eyes.

”We have confirmed the mastermind behind the invasion of your lands: They call him Lord Serek’uar, apparently going by a title known as Sapphire Prince. From what Ayu has told me, they are feared as the strongest spellcasters within the Varjan Kingdom, and we would have to be wary when the day comes where we clash with him. Also, we have confirmed that your father Hideo-sama, is in fact alive and is being held at Kaneda Castle. I understand that it’s just at the borders between the Onrai and Saikoten regions? We’ll have to be extremely methodical as to how we approach this matter.”

”At the very least, I hope that this can bring you some sense of relief, now that we know your father is alive.”

“A Varjan Sapphire Prince… I’ve heard of them, but I never thought I would be facing one in a war.” Takeshi remarked, unnerved by Shizuka’s news. “And I’ve also heard of Serek’uar. It’s mostly stories from when we and The Order are still friends, but they told of a particularly violent and destructive Varjan named Serek’uar. Despite his affiliation with the brilliant strategists and tacticians of The Azure Circle, Serek himself isn’t terribly intelligent. Still, his penchant for destruction allows him a high position in the hierarchy.” The young lord revealed.

“We should rescue my father as soon as we can then. He’ll know what to do.” Takeshi affirmed his confidence and belief in his father. “Indeed, Castle Kaneda is at the regional border. It’s pretty close here too, in fact.” Some details then had the young lord wondering. “They’ve already captured Castle Oja, so why move him to Castle Kaneda? They’re surely planning something. A trap for us, perhaps?”

“But it matters little. Trap or not, I cannot let this opportunity pass us by. We will mount a rescue as soon as we can.” Takeshi declared to Shizuka.

”Ah. Forgive me, Young Lord.” Started Shizuka. ”With all due respect… I’m afraid that I must advise against such an action. Our party members have just got done with a perilous mission and need proper time to heal. This is ignoring the fact that not everyone has returned as of yet. They often say that discretion is the better part of valor, Takeshi-dono. I understand and sympathize with you, but as your vice-captain, I urge you to reconsider…”

Takeshi wanted to protest, every second they wasted could mean the opportunity for his father’s rescue passing them by. Still, he was the acting Island Lord now. He was responsible for far more people now than before the invasion, which meant he cannot make decisions lightly and hastily anymore. “I… You’re right. We should rest and prepare. That way, we’ll be fully ready once we assault Castle Kaneda.” He decided to follow Shizuka’s advice.

“I’ll let Kikyo and the others know about this and tell them to prepare as well.” Takeshi finished. “Is there anything else that needs to be talked about?”

Shizuka’s face dawned a look of relief at Takeshi’s acceptance of his reasoning. ”Yes, Milord, there is the matter of this man.” He said, motioning towards the still unconscious Na’Kratz. ”While staging an assault on the castle is unwise, it doesn’t mean we still can’t take some form of action.” He gave Takeshi a sharp, bit reassuring look.

”I believe his rank in the Varjan army is comparable to Serek’uar’s, so he should be an invaluable source of information, if persuaded correctly. Also, perhaps we could do a little reconnaissance on the castle and the area surrounding it. Ayu is still assisting the freed civilians at the bay, but perhaps you know of someone that could aid in that effort? Perhaps Kageho-san or Takamori-san with his eyes? The other members of the taskforce are strong, but they need rest and, uh…well…” He scratched his cheek with an exasperated expression.

”Let us say that ‘stealth’ isn’t their strong suit…”

Takeshi could not help but smile at the last line. “A wise suggestion. I’ll tell Kageho and anyone who can join her to go on ahead and scout out the castle, see what we’re up against and potentially find out where exactly the Varjans are keeping my father. We’ll join up with them once we’re ready.”

“And this man’s name is Na’kratz, huh?” Takeshi looked at the missing-armed, unconscious Varjan. “I’ll leave the interrogation to you and the rest of the taskforce. Let’s hope he’s the more… opportunistic kind of Varjan rather than a one who has blind loyalty to the dark kingdom. The former has looser lips than the latter.”

“That said, do remember that not everything that comes out of his mouth is the truth.”

”Indeed.” Shizuka replied. Began to restrain the Varjan commander. ”We should have the temple herbalists and healers tend to him enough to where he won’t go into shock. I stopped the bleeding as best I could, but I got a little carried away in the battle. I’ll be sure to have a nice little chat with him when he wakes up.” He said.

”Also, no disrespect to Kageho’s capabilities or anyone else she’s able to take along with her, but please tell them to be careful. As you’ve stated, something doesn’t feel right about all this…”

Takeshi nodded. “I will. And… thanks, by the way. You and the taskforce have done much for Shizuyama.”

---
~ @Restalaan (GRI), @AzureKnight (SHI), @The Irish Tree (LIL) ~

Gringor arriv'd at Terauchi Temple with his spoils, a wagon with sev'ral boxes of unknown items and an unconscious prison'r did clothe in black.

"Ho, gring'r!" Takeshi did greet. "What has't thee did get th're?"

A curious Revuel hath opened one of the boxes and did see yond th're w're pots inside enwheeling an unknown white powd'r. The spellcast'r tooketh noteth of the scent bef're dipping a fing'r into the powd'r and giving t a licketh. "looks dang'rous, smells dang'rous and tastes dang'rous. " yond wast revuel's v'rdict. "what jump didst thee bringeth h're, orc?"

If 't be true Shizuka and/or Liliana w're presenteth, those gents wouldst clearly recognizeth the tied-up m'rcenary Fatal Pulse and the white powd'r being the explosive Nolkro drugs

---
~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~

"We shall beest departing, mil'rd. "

'Twas already nighttime at which hour Kageho and most of Takeshi's human allies liketh Kazenosuke and Yurine, hath left Terauchi temple f'r castle Kaneda to scout and conducteth reconnaissance. Kikyo eke hath brought most of the oth'r Shizuyaman warri'rs with h'r too, with the reasoneth yond the lady did plan on creating a staging area f'r the inevitable assault on the castle.

Takeshi did stay behind to rest 'longside the taskf'rce. Aft'r kageho's group hath left, that gent wenteth to talketh to the taskf'rce. "I've hath sent the oth'rs to scout castle Kaneda. Those gents'll belike beest done once we catcheth up to those folk. " that gent hath said. "While i'd liketh f'r us to headeth th're immediately and rescueth mine own fath'r, I und'rstand if 't be true thee guys needeth m're timeth to rest 'r to dudgeon oth'r things. "

"I'll beest h're too, if 't be true any of thee needeth me. " the young l'rd did finish. "Just alloweth me knoweth if 't be true we're eft to moveth out. Speaking of yond, i'd very much liketh t if 't be true we all taketh parteth in the rescueth. I'm quaint sure the Varjans aren't going to alloweth mine own fath'r wend easily. I'm going to expecteth the stiffest of resistances. "

---

---

Original Text

Shizuyama Wilderness

~ @Restalaan (GRI) ~

Fatal Pulse Strikes Again! (Collab with Restalaan)

But the mercenary had some tricks left in his sleeve before he could pass out, he unsheathed his swords and thrusted the blades at Gringor's face. The High Orc's physiology protected him from any sort of injury, but the pain did force him to release the mercenary.

"The name's Keith North, by the way. Just so you know what to call me and not have trouble talking about me." The mercenary introduced himself, for a strange reason. "I've danced with some of your fellow taskforce members too. Cost me quite a fortune, so I'm a little pissed at your little ragtag bunch of misfits!"

Keith then lunged at Gringor, swinging his swords at the latter with wild abandon. Confident that without his weapon, Gringor was defenseless.

Feeling the swords smacking against his face, Gringor gripped loosened for a moment before the mercenary took advantage of it and freed themselves in an instant.

His cheeks twitched fiercely at the impact as he let out a sharp breath as the latter introduced himself as Keith.

Hearing briefly that he had tussled with the others before, Gringor wondered who it was as they let up a good fight away.

Well, that means it's all his now.

Arms tucked closer as Gringor dodged the first few strikes and distanced himself.

The moment Keith chased after him, only then did Gringor raised his arm. Heedless of the risk and would've done the same move even without armor on him.

Blocking the blade with his limbs, it screeched against the armor as Gringor stomped forward mightily. His foot dug deep before delivering a sharp blow to the liver in conjunction, leading to a devastating counter-strike.

Following through, he grabbed Keith outstretched arm and proceed to keep raining more blows with the other hand. This time not planning to let go at all as he continued this brutal onslaught.

"Ow! Why the liver?!"

Keith was then subjected to an unending barrage of punches to his face. With one of his arms in Gringor's grip which held him in place, evading was out of the question. But the mercenary still had moves he could play, Keith blocked the next punch with his free arm before using it to lock Gringor's punching arm. He also did the same with the other pair of arms.

With their arms locked onto each other, Keith leaned his head back before delivering a sharp headbutt unto the High Orc's head.

*SMACK*

A commendable move, but the mercenary severely underestimated Gringor's physiology. The only thing Keith managed to accomplish with that move was knocking himself out, his body falling limp in the High Orc's arms. And with that, the fight was finished.

Gringor continued his furious barrage right until his arm was locked, then the other. Moving on instinct the moment Keith reared his head back, he readied himself for the oncoming move.

True enough, Keith forehead met his and Gringor felt the impact rearing down his own by returning a similar headbutt.

From that exchange, Gringor prepared himself for the next one since it was now his arena but Keith head lolled back and body slacked under his grip.

Gringor blinked for a moment before realizing that the latter knocked himself unconscious.

Hmm. Well, that was fun at least. Gringor sighed as he looked towards the sky. It had taken longer and fights probably been over since he can no longer feel it in the air.

His eyes then fell onto large cart now bereft of its owner before an idea struck him, hauling Keith across his shoulders, Gringor tore the trappings off, tied up Keith arms and legs firmly before unceremoniously ditching him in the cart.

With that done, Gringor took over the cart and pushed it back towards their base. It was his spoils of war after all.

It wouldn't take long for him to reach it, and once done, he decided to hand over the prisoner as well as show whatever he captured to the Warboss so they can divvy it up.

---

Terauchi Temple

~ @Restalaan (SKA) ~

"Probably wanted to 'convince' him to join the Varjans. Not standard tactics but there's precedence. That's how they managed to grow so fast over the years too. So we got some time, they'll need to reorganized too since they lost the momentum."

Skarsneek

"Ha! I say best of luck with them!" Takeshi responded to Skarsneek with utter confidence. "My father isn't the most flexible person out there. After what the Varjans did, he would ask no less than the Varjan king's head before he can be brought to the table."

It was then that Shizuka pulled Takeshi away for a private chat.

"Also, who are you?"

Skarsneek

Revuel was genuinely surprised to discover that he and Skarsneek have not met yet. "We have not met? I was here when the temple was attacked, Sir Skarsneek. Well, I suppose things were going pretty fast then." The spellcaster then cleared his throat. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Revuel Arvida. Former Warlock of The Scarce Legion, most of whom are now assaulting this island."

"I came when I heard many Scarce legionnaires gathered here. Fortunately, I met with Lady Kyouko who pointed me at the right direction."

---
~ @AzureKnight (SHI) ~

Shizuka X Takeshi

Having returned to Terauchi Temple with his comrades, Shizuka would gently lay the sleeping Liliana on a jasmine leaf that stemmed by a tree next to a small pond. Double-checking to ensure she was alright, he then made his way over to Takeshi with a serious look on his face.

”Takeshi-dono.” He said. ”I have much news, some good and more concerning. Firstly, we were successful in liberating Komatsu Bay, thanks in part of the efforts of Ayu and her brother - who apparently shares a name with me…” Shizuka’s face showed a bit of exasperation as he mentioned his smaller, chubbier compatriot.

”However, I have more new anent the finer points of the Varjan invasion as a whole.” He pointed to the unconscious Na’Kratz he was carrying on his back. ”If you’ve any business you need to attend to currently, I suggest you do so first, as what I have to say will require some time for careful prep.”

“Huh. So Ayu has a brother named Shizuka? That… can get confusing.” Takeshi remarked. “Anyway, I don’t really have anything to do right now. Why don’t I join you in putting away that Varjan and you can tell me on the way?” The young lord was eager and impatient in getting news about the invasion. They were close to saving his father, after all, and any new developments must be known immediately.

Walking with the young heir, Shizuka would find a place to sit him down for a moment, as he then turned back to Takeshi. ”This man is named Na’Kratz.” He said. ”He apparently is one of the strongest Varjan commanders in the invasion force. We defeated him, however, in the battle that liberated the bay. What mainl concerns me is what some of the lower ranking officers have informed me of.” He looked at Takeshi with solemn eyes.

”We have confirmed the mastermind behind the invasion of your lands: They call him Lord Serek’uar, apparently going by a title known as Sapphire Prince. From what Ayu has told me, they are feared as the strongest spellcasters within the Varjan Kingdom, and we would have to be wary when the day comes where we clash with him. Also, we have confirmed that your father Hideo-sama, is in fact alive and is being held at Kaneda Castle. I understand that it’s just at the borders between the Onrai and Saikoten regions? We’ll have to be extremely methodical as to how we approach this matter.”

”At the very least, I hope that this can bring you some sense of relief, now that we know your father is alive.”

“A Varjan Sapphire Prince… I’ve heard of them, but I never thought I would be facing one in a war.” Takeshi remarked, unnerved by Shizuka’s news. “And I’ve also heard of Serek’uar. It’s mostly stories from when we and The Order are still friends, but they told of a particularly violent and destructive Varjan named Serek’uar. Despite his affiliation with the brilliant strategists and tacticians of The Azure Circle, Serek himself isn’t terribly intelligent. Still, his penchant for destruction allows him a high position in the hierarchy.” The young lord revealed.

“We should rescue my father as soon as we can then. He’ll know what to do.” Takeshi affirmed his confidence and belief in his father. “Indeed, Castle Kaneda is at the regional border. It’s pretty close here too, in fact.” Some details then had the young lord wondering. “They’ve already captured Castle Oja, so why move him to Castle Kaneda? They’re surely planning something. A trap for us, perhaps?”

“But it matters little. Trap or not, I cannot let this opportunity pass us by. We will mount a rescue as soon as we can.” Takeshi declared to Shizuka.

”Ah. Forgive me, Young Lord.” Started Shizuka. ”With all due respect… I’m afraid that I must advise against such an action. Our party members have just got done with a perilous mission and need proper time to heal. This is ignoring the fact that not everyone has returned as of yet. They often say that discretion is the better part of valor, Takeshi-dono. I understand and sympathize with you, but as your vice-captain, I urge you to reconsider…”

Takeshi wanted to protest, every second they wasted could mean the opportunity for his father’s rescue passing them by. Still, he was the acting Island Lord now. He was responsible for far more people now than before the invasion, which meant he cannot make decisions lightly and hastily anymore. “I… You’re right. We should rest and prepare. That way, we’ll be fully ready once we assault Castle Kaneda.” He decided to follow Shizuka’s advice.

“I’ll let Kikyo and the others know about this and tell them to prepare as well.” Takeshi finished. “Is there anything else that needs to be talked about?”

Shizuka’s face dawned a look of relief at Takeshi’s acceptance of his reasoning. ”Yes, Milord, there is the matter of this man.” He said, motioning towards the still unconscious Na’Kratz. ”While staging an assault on the castle is unwise, it doesn’t mean we still can’t take some form of action.” He gave Takeshi a sharp, bit reassuring look.

”I believe his rank in the Varjan army is comparable to Serek’uar’s, so he should be an invaluable source of information, if persuaded correctly. Also, perhaps we could do a little reconnaissance on the castle and the area surrounding it. Ayu is still assisting the freed civilians at the bay, but perhaps you know of someone that could aid in that effort? Perhaps Kageho-san or Takamori-san with his eyes? The other members of the taskforce are strong, but they need rest and, uh…well…” He scratched his cheek with an exasperated expression.

”Let us say that ‘stealth’ isn’t their strong suit…”

Takeshi could not help but smile at the last line. “A wise suggestion. I’ll tell Kageho and anyone who can join her to go on ahead and scout out the castle, see what we’re up against and potentially find out where exactly the Varjans are keeping my father. We’ll join up with them once we’re ready.”

“And this man’s name is Na’kratz, huh?” Takeshi looked at the missing-armed, unconscious Varjan. “I’ll leave the interrogation to you and the rest of the taskforce. Let’s hope he’s the more… opportunistic kind of Varjan rather than a one who has blind loyalty to the dark kingdom. The former has looser lips than the latter.”

“That said, do remember that not everything that comes out of his mouth is the truth.”

”Indeed.” Shizuka replied. Began to restrain the Varjan commander. ”We should have the temple herbalists and healers tend to him enough to where he won’t go into shock. I stopped the bleeding as best I could, but I got a little carried away in the battle. I’ll be sure to have a nice little chat with him when he wakes up.” He said.

”Also, no disrespect to Kageho’s capabilities or anyone else she’s able to take along with her, but please tell them to be careful. As you’ve stated, something doesn’t feel right about all this…”

Takeshi nodded. “I will. And… thanks, by the way. You and the taskforce have done much for Shizuyama.”

---
~ @Restalaan (GRI), @AzureKnight (SHI), @The Irish Tree (LIL) ~

Gringor arrived at Terauchi Temple with his spoils, a wagon with several boxes of unknown items and an unconscious prisoner clad in black.

"Ho, Gringor!" Takeshi greeted. "What have you got there?"

A curious Revuel opened one of the boxes and saw that there were pots inside containing an unknown white powder. The spellcaster took note of the scent before dipping a finger into the powder and giving it a lick. "Looks dangerous, smells dangerous and tastes dangerous." That was Revuel's verdict. "What exactly did you bring here, Orc?"

If Shizuka and/or Liliana were present, they would clearly recognize the tied-up mercenary Fatal Pulse and the white powder being the explosive Nolkro drugs.

---
~ @AzureKnight (HIN, ATS & SHI), @Enkryption (ALI & CRL), @The Irish Tree (EUL & LIL), @Rezod92, @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI) ~

"We will be departing, milord."

It was already nighttime when Kageho and most of Takeshi's human allies like Kazenosuke and Yurine, left Terauchi Temple for Castle Kaneda to scout and conduct reconnaissance. Kikyo also brought most of the other Shizuyaman warriors with her too, with the reason that she planned on creating a staging area for the inevitable assault on the castle.

Takeshi stayed behind to rest alongside the taskforce. After Kageho's group left, he went to talk to the taskforce. "I've sent the others to scout Castle Kaneda. They'll probably be done once we catch up to them." He said. "While I'd like for us to head there immediately and rescue my father, I understand if you guys need more time to rest or to handle other things."

"I'll be here too, if any of you need me." The young lord finished. "Just let me know if we're ready to move out. Speaking of that, I'd really like it if we all take part in the rescue. I'm pretty sure the Varjans aren't going to let my father go easily. I'm going to expect the stiffest of resistances."

---

---

~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~

The Shadow Of The Taskforce (END OF ACT I)

(REQUIRES ALL PLAYER CHARACTERS)

"I finally have all that I need to rescue my father from the Varjans. The only thing missing now is where the invaders have him imprisoned. I'm coming for you, father. Just wait a little longer."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TAKAMORI TALES ~~

The Past Never Passes

"Lord Takamori's traitorous former student, Setsuna, is training Mongol archers across Shizuyama. Lord Takamori posits that she plans on attacking Omi Springs, his hometown and a refuge for villagers. We should meet with Lord Takamori as soon as possible."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SORAE TALES ~~

The Traitor

"Sorae is on the hunt for Sogen, one of the conspirators behind her family's murder. To track him down, Sorae has asked us to speak with Ayu who may know where we can find him."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SHIZUKA (MERCHANT) TALES ~~

The People's Servant

"One of the farms near Komatsu Bay looks like it's had some trouble. Someone should make sure the people there are all right."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~

Whispers In The Woods

A villager woman remarked to the taskforce member as the latter passed by.

"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."

"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."

The Other Side Of Honor

A peasant man eating barbecued meat on a stick was startled when the taskforce member approached. It appeared he has news.

"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."

"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."

Shizuyama's Freedom

A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached.

"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."

"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained."

Bottoms Up

A peasant man warming his hands on a bonfire noticed the taskforce member passing by.

"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."

~~ LEGENDARY TALES ~~

The Heavenly Strike

"Dealing with these students of the Heavenly Strike was more difficult than we thought. They have already thrown back two of the taskforce. However, the yokai fought them separately and at different times, so perhaps a more cooperative approach would be more fruitful."
-Takeshi Oja

Tales Of Shizuyama: Alternative (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

Kazenosuke's House

KAZENOSUKE, DANCING BLADE

~ @AzureKnight (VRA), @The Irish Tree (VIV), @Rezod92 ~

Kazenosuke wast still holding off Camael at which hour the next waft of attacks cameth. The dancing swordsman hadst to bethink apace and did start by spinning pushing the draconic familiar hence a did bite ere spinning to giveth his scabbard did thrust enow force to stumble Camael hence.

His bodkin wast a blur to dispel the shadow rats from Zeka. He then ramm'd his bodkin at one of the incoming shadow clones and dispelling t, leaving only two remaining. He did kick one hence once moo and crouch'd down to throweth ov'r his shoulder the last one. They weren't eliminated, but t didst buyeth him enow time f'r the next attacks.

Kazenosuke hath tried to useth only his scabbard to block Vivian's downward leggeth strike, only f'r the icy leggeth to wend through and hitteth the dancing swordsman. Just in time f'r Vară's fiery orbs to lunge at his position and explode.

The swordsman wast launched, leaving a smoke trail, past Zeka's fog and to the wooden walls of his bawbling home. After his corse did slide down to the did grind, Kazenosuke hath used his bodkin to prop himself back up. His forks wast wobbly, one couldst sayeth he wast on his last forks. Clutching the area whither Vivian hitteth him, he did point his blade at the almost victorious yokai. "You. bethink t's ov'r. ? I've still did get some square hath left in me. "

The three taskforce members would eke notice yond a huge number of crows has't gather'd in the trees surrounding the square. They hath seemed ingraft, just curiously watching the hurlyburly unfold. But clearly, they wast not. The taskforce couldst coequal detect faint traces of charm within those folk

---

Unknown Forest

KAGEHO, INNOCENT SHADOW

~ @The Irish Tree (MAT) ~

"Oh and Takeshi couldn't come, he was busy dressing up as a miko! For...some reason. I didn't really ask."

Matsuri Okitsu

The shinobi wench didst not appeareth to beest interest'd in talking, as the fires hath continued to burn the forest down. In fact, the lady hath brought out that lady sickle weapons and hath seemed to beest getting eft to start a square with matsuri until the young Inari hath said that lady last sentence.

That lady weapons wast still out, but they and that lady posture wast anon did relax. Any fighting intent wast anon gone. "Thou has't mine own ears, yokai. Doth not waste those folk. " The shinobi hath said coldly and apace. "Spare nay details. Bid me everything. " the flames wast dying down 'round those folk, but still did illuminate enow yond Matsuri couldst still see the shinobi.

---

Terauchi Temple

~ @Enkryption (UMI & RCD), @AzureKnight (KIR & LAV) ~

The refugees were still distrustful of the taskforce, despite Umami and Ripcord humbling themselves to them. They were drawn in when Kirei joined them in renovating an old and unused shrine at the corner of Terauchi Temple. Things were going pretty smoothly, the taskforce even gathering quite a crowd of an audience, until Lavinia joined them and assumed some things about the Claremont sisters. Things that struck a nerve with the siblings.

"Uh, oh. Looks like they're about to fight."

"Let's get out of here before we get caught up in all that."

The refugee crowd was listening in on the commotion inside. They dispersed before anything... loud happened, and they were all gone by the time Lavinia and the Claremonts resolved the misunderstanding.

Ayu, having noticed the fleeing villagers, went inside the newly-refurbished shrine. "Hey, do any of you mind explaining to me why people suddenly fled from here?" The spymaster's eyebrow raised when she saw a large kiln in place of the old shrine she knew. "Wait, isn't this the-- Ugh, never mind. I suppose it's dedicated to no one anyway."

"Now then, what did you all do here that warranted people freaking out?" Ayu jumped to conclusions before noticing the mark on Ripcord's neck. "Whoa, and what's that on your neck?"

---

~ @FroggRFlowR ~

Takeshi did listen intently to Tomi's introduction and explanation of that lady situation. He gather'd yond the lady wast from an 'alternate shizuyama' as the lady mention'd. A similar, but different ordinary from the implications. The young lord couldst only wonder at how a seemingly simple dragon couldst accomplish such a feat. Peradventure thither wast moo to this Tomi Oro than hath met the eye? 'r peradventure the lady wast simply falsing through that lady teeth. Although, dragons wast not famous f'r their deception.

"Even you, Takeshi. I met you from where I come from, but you are wholly different, down to your scent. So, I do not know how, but it seemed I have slept my way to an... Alternate Shizuyama. Somehow?"

Tomi Oro

Takeshi stoodeth his did grind at which hour Tomi did get closer to him, although he didst bite his lips at which hour the dragon's visage wast very close to his. However, Tomi wast only interest'd in the smelleth of his hair. How different t wast from the takeshi yond the lady kneweth.

"Definitely a Tomi thing to do... Just my luck!"

Tomi Oro

Clearing his throat and his fluster'd visage, Takeshi madeth his reply. "So. thou art from an alternate shizuyama, an alternate ordinary. I doth not knoweth if 't be true this. 'travel between worlds' is possible. I doth not coequal knoweth if 't be true thou art simply falsing to me. But f'r anon, i shalt believeth thee. Besides, t's not like i has't evidence to the contrary. "

"well hath met, then. Madam Tomi Oro. " takeshi madeth a brief bow, but he hast other questions to asketh. "May i asketh, what doth thee plan on doing anon? Thou sayeth this is not thy shizuyama, not coequal thy own ordinary. I would very much appreciate thy aid 'gainst the Varjan invasion of mine own home, but I would eke understandeth if 't be true thee hold nay obligation to this lodging and would prefer to leaveth and behold f'r a way back home. "

---

---

Original Text

Kazenosuke's House

KAZENOSUKE, DANCING BLADE

~ @AzureKnight (VRA), @The Irish Tree (VIV), @Rezod92 ~

Kazenosuke was still holding off Camael when the next wave of attacks came. The dancing swordsman had to think quickly and started by spinning pushing the draconic familiar away a bit before spinning to give his scabbard thrust enough force to stumble Camael away.

His sword was a blur to dispel the shadow rats from Zeka. He then rammed his sword at one of the incoming shadow clones and dispelling it, leaving only two remaining. He kicked one away once more and crouched down to throw over his shoulder the last one. They weren't eliminated, but it did buy him enough time for the next attacks.

Kazenosuke tried to use only his scabbard to block Vivian's downward leg strike, only for the icy leg to go through and hit the dancing swordsman. Just in time for Vară's fiery orbs to lunge at his position and explode.

The swordsman was launched, leaving a smoke trail, past Zeka's fog and to the wooden walls of his small home. After his body slid down to the ground, Kazenosuke used his sword to prop himself back up. His legs were wobbly, one could say he was on his last legs. Clutching the area where Vivian hit him, he pointed his blade at the almost victorious yokai. "You... think it's over...? I've still got some fight left in me..."

The three taskforce members would also notice that a huge number of crows have gathered in the trees surrounding the fight. They seemed normal, just curiously watching the battle unfold. But clearly, they were not. The taskforce could even detect faint traces of magic within them.

---

Unknown Forest

KAGEHO, INNOCENT SHADOW

~ @The Irish Tree (MAT) ~

"Oh and Takeshi couldn't come, he was busy dressing up as a miko! For...some reason. I didn't really ask."

Matsuri Okitsu

The shinobi girl did not appear to be interested in talking, as the fires continued to burn the forest down. In fact, she brought out her sickle weapons and seemed to be getting ready to start a fight with Matsuri until the young Inari said her last sentence.

Her weapons were still out, but they and her posture were now relaxed. Any fighting intent was now gone."...You have my ears, yokai. Do not waste them." The shinobi said coldly and quickly. "Spare no details. Tell me everything." The flames were dying down around them, but still illuminated enough that Matsuri could still see the shinobi.

---

Terauchi Temple

~ @Enkryption (UMI & RCD), @AzureKnight (KIR & LAV) ~

The refugees were still distrustful of the taskforce, despite Umami and Ripcord humbling themselves to them. They were drawn in when Kirei joined them in renovating an old and unused shrine at the corner of Terauchi Temple. Things were going pretty smoothly, the taskforce even gathering quite a crowd of an audience, until Lavinia joined them and assumed some things about the Claremont sisters. Things that struck a nerve with the siblings.

"Uh, oh. Looks like they're about to fight."

"Let's get out of here before we get caught up in all that."

The refugee crowd was listening in on the commotion inside. They dispersed before anything... loud happened, and they were all gone by the time Lavinia and the Claremonts resolved the misunderstanding.

Ayu, having noticed the fleeing villagers, went inside the newly-refurbished shrine. "Hey, do any of you mind explaining to me why people suddenly fled from here?" The spymaster's eyebrow raised when she saw a large kiln in place of the old shrine she knew. "Wait, isn't this the-- Ugh, never mind. I suppose it's dedicated to no one anyway."

"Now then, what did you all do here that warranted people freaking out?" Ayu jumped to conclusions before noticing the mark on Ripcord's neck. "Whoa, and what's that on your neck?"

---

~ @FroggRFlowR ~

Takeshi listened intently to Tomi's introduction and explanation of her situation. He gathered that she was from... an 'alternate Shizuyama' as she mentioned. A similar, but different world from the implications. The young lord could only wonder at how a seemingly simple Dragon could accomplish such a feat. Perhaps there was more to this Tomi Oro than met the eye? Or perhaps she was simply lying through her teeth. Although, Dragons were not famous for their deception.

"Even you, Takeshi. I met you from where I come from, but you are wholly different, down to your scent. So, I do not know how, but it seemed I have slept my way to an... Alternate Shizuyama. Somehow?"

Tomi Oro

Takeshi stood his ground when Tomi got closer to him, although he did bite his lips when the Dragon's face was very close to his. However, Tomi was only interested in the smell of his hair. How different it was from the Takeshi that she knew.

"Definitely a Tomi thing to do... Just my luck!"

Tomi Oro

Clearing his throat and his flustered face, Takeshi made his reply. "So... you're from an alternate Shizuyama, an alternate world. I do not know if this... 'travel between worlds' is possible. I do not even know if you are simply lying to me. But for now, I shall believe you. Besides, it's not like I have evidence to the contrary."

"Well met, then. Madam Tomi Oro." Takeshi made a brief bow, but he has other questions to ask. "May I ask, what do you plan on doing now? You say this is not your Shizuyama, not even your own world. I would very much appreciate your aid against the Varjan invasion of my home, but I would also understand if you hold no obligation to this place and would prefer to leave and look for a way back home."

---

---

~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~

Nobutada, Unwavering Will

"There's a monastery east of here called Fung Temple.

There's a monk there named Nobutada. He's one of the most sturdiest people I know, able to weather blows that could shatter boulders. When my father called for the monks of Fung Temple, I didn't see Nobutada among them. If he's still alive, he'll be in the monastery and he can lend us his aid."

Sorae, Gentle Protector

"Sorae's skill with the naginata is fearsome and second to none. She and her clan was summoned to Sanjo Beach, but never appeared. We should head to their estate in the west and find out what happened to them and, if possible, recruit them to our cause."

Kageho, Innocent Shadow (ONGOING)

"Kageho is a shinobi who was supposed to attempt to sneak through the Varjan blockade alongside others. The last wave of shinobi that we could send. I... ordered them not to go anymore, behind my father's back, since it would have been a waste and the Varjans were upon us. It was too late to call for reinforcements from the other islands.

Still, I expected her to show up in Sanjo Beach with the other shinobi. But they didn't. Anyway, their hideout should be around here somewhere. Try looking for any suspicious clearings in the forests around here. We can use their help."

Kazenosuke, Dancing Blade (ONGOING)

"Kazenosuke could deflect any attack with his spinning blade, and deliver slashes faster than the eye could see. I have no idea why he couldn't make it to Sanjo Beach. I know he's a ronin, but he still should have heeded my father.

Well, his house is near Terauchi Temple. Not very near, but just follow the river near the temple and we'll find his home and then we can ask for his help."

Yurine, Death Keeper

"Yurine has taken care of Clan Oja for as long as I can remember. Despite being a servant, I know she can swing her masakari axe pretty hard. I've little idea of her past but I know it involves tending cemeteries.

She should be in Castle Oja but my father sent her to Onrai to begin enacting some way to protect the graves from being desecrated by the invaders. I know of a famous cemetery south of Terauchi Temple. We can begin looking for her there and she'll surely help us."

Kikyo, Ever Faithful

"My childhood friend Kikyo was on an anti-yokai mission before all of this. I... was kind of glad she couldn't be on the beach and hoped that maybe she'll find a way to escape and live a full life elsewhere. But I know she would never do that.

If she's coming back, she would definitely head for Port Wadatsumi in the southeast. We should find her before she does anything... drastic."

~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~

Honey Trap

There was a villager woman, crying alone near a large tree within Terauchi Temple.

"Yokai, could I speak with you? A group of bandits is terrorizing Sanjo. They slaughtered my whole family, like animals!

They were killed at our home, near a river. I am Saki, please avenge my family and stop those bandits."

No Place Like Home

An upset woman noticed the taskforce member approaching.

"As if losing our homes wasn't bad enough, we have to see Varjans in them as well.

They took a home nearby a few days ago. The man who lived there won't leave the area. He keeps begging for help."

Shizuyama's Freedom

A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached.

"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by a shrine priestess who wasn't present in Sanjo Beach."

"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not properly trained."

Hunter-Killer: First Encounter

There was a villager man sitting in a corner, quaking in fear.

"Yokai, there's a warrior in Yagata Shipyard clad in black with a bandaged head. He seemed to have slaughtered all the Varjans there and freed me and a few other prisoners."

"He told me to tell you that he wants to meet the taskforce so they could kill him. I'm not sure what's going on with that guy but he gives me the creeps."

Iskah And The Incubus Knight (Xaltwind and PaulHaynek)

Pagras

@Xaltwind

"So, who's that? And why're we hiding from her exactly?"

Vanessa

"Her name's Katelyn, a Salamander who's also pursuing Aun." Iskah answered. "And we're not hiding."

After that declaration, the Lizardman rounded the corner and walked up to Katelyn the Salamander. The fiery lizard monster, meanwhile, noticed immediately and... appeared happy to have seen Iskah. "Ah, Iskah! You're here too!" Katelyn gladly greeted the unamused Lizardman. "Still pursuing Aun, I wager?" She asked while patting Iskah on the shoulder. Vanessa would notice that the Salamander was a head taller than the Lizardman.

Iskah, meanwhile, stopped Katelyn and responded. "Yes, and I wager you are as well." She eyed Rie, who can only give a sheepish laugh. "I see you've recruited others to help you in this quest." The Lizardman remarked.

"And I see you've also made friends of your own." The Salamander looked past Iskah to see Vanessa either behind the Lizardman or still back at the corner. "A Dark Mage, huh? Now how did you manage to get a Dark Mange working for ya? Did you promise her a man once you get Aun or something?"

Iskah And The Incubus Knight (Xaltwind and PaulHaynek)

Pagras

@Xaltwind

Iskah frowned, eyes narrowed and unamused, at Vanessa's affectionate gesture to the head. "...Please don't do that again."

"Anyway, you're probably right. He's gone back to the capital and... likely preparing for our arrival." The Lizardman then released a long sigh. "This is going to get tough... but hey, I've got you now. I bet... well, I hope they're not expecting someone like you." Iskah smiled confidently.

"So, what do you wanna do now, hm? Chase after him straight away? Do some sight-seeing? Find that Gummy Dummy who abandoned her cart?"

Vanessa

"While I'd like to go after Aun right away, I think we should look for Rie. At the very least, we should say our farewells before we leave her behind." Iskah decided. "Let's head back to where we left her cart and start from there."

---

Iskah led Vanessa back to the spot where the latter found Aun and where the wagon full of goodies was carelessly left behind. The Lizardman was the first to round the corner of the alleyway... and suddenly raised a hand to stop Vanessa from following. She quickly went behind again and silently motioned for Vanessa to join her in peeking what she saw.

Once Vanessa did so, the two monsters observed that Rie has returned to her surprisingly untouched wagon... along with someone else. The Gyoubu Danuki was speaking with another monster beside her transport, a lizard monster much like Iskah but her scales were a dark red and her tail sometimes glowed like an ember. It was no question that she was a Salamander, and this particular one wore a slitted metal mask that covered only her face. Her presence here agitated Iskah, she was someone that the Lizardman recognized.

"Damn it, I knew I'd see her again." Iskah muttered to herself. "And it looks like she found friends of her own. No wonder Rie followed me to find Aun." She then released a long sigh. Perhaps Vanessa should ask Iskah on who the Salamander was?