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Fantasy Domain - Tachi and maiden
The woods were sparkling with gentle sunlight on dewdrops. Pretty flowers grew among the moss covered logs while butterflies gently flitted about. The sounds of birds chirping in the tall trees filtered down to the large roots that crisscrossed across the valley floor. One could even say that elves, were they to exist in this setting, might have built homes within the trees themselves for they were massive in size. A child might easily get lost among the roots of these large trunks if they found a way to enter this enchanted domain. However rarely did humans trek this far from their protected settlements except the occasional traveler or huntsman.
So rare did humans travel here that the question of why must surely have entered your mind. You see it is not due to the difficulty in maintaining a path through this towering metropolis of vines and wood. Nor could it be that one might chance themselves lost. Rather, a more deadly reason awaited the unwary. For no matter your race or ability, you could easily become prey to the canines or felines that inhabited these realms. Large wolves with venomous teeth ruled the forest floor. A human might be agile enough to vault over the roots. The wolves powerful muscles sent them flying over them. Yet the felines were the true terrors. Their sharp claws allowed them to walk up virtually any tree or cliff you might find. Death from above was a true fear to those below. So it was with some hesitation that the animals that did live here viewed a human female. She was an agile creature, slender and quick on her toes. Swinging herself over roots that were as high as her waist. Leaping where she could from tree base to moss covered tree base. Her leather outfit did not hide the fact that she was a mere young adult, still easily in her early 20s. Her hair was bound back with a leather strap. Another leather strap circled over one should and under another, attached to her large pouch she carried. She was a girl on a mission. The settlement's doctor needed special herbs for his business and could not brave the woods himself to collect them. So she was here in his place. As she knelt down and carefully pulled some of the plants up, careful to not let them break off at the root, Yumi contemplated how it was that she got this particular assignment. Sure she did odd jobs to help with her expenses. Still, it seemed that either the warriors guild would be better prepared for a trek into these woods than her. Even the mage guild, despite their selfish ambitions, would be better equipped for this. Still, her curious good luck to get out of bad situations was well known. At least, that is what everyone thought. It had nothing to do with luck. Unclasping the pouch and carefully setting the last of the plants she had needed to collect inside, she suddenly became aware that the forest around her had grown incredibly silent. There were no birds singing. If possible, even the insects were completely still. She stayed there frozen, only a moment, then quickly jumped. Flinging herself up onto a large root, she crouched searching for which direction the danger was coming from. To think, she was almost out of here without an incident. A pack of 4 large canine beasts snarled off to the side. She turned and stared at them in a moment of panic, then willed her numb legs to move. Running along the roots like bridges, she sprang back the way she had traveled. They easily followed, catching up with each bound. She was dead if they so much as knicked her once with their teeth. She had to get away. Then they were upon her. It only took Yumi an instant to feel their breath upon her neck, feel complete helplessness and terror, and then suddenly to be flying. Hikari held Yumi in her strong, marbled arms. Yumi looked up at her friend, overcome by Hikari's pure white wings and hair. Even her eyes glowed white on her alabaster face. Hikari was Yumi's secret. Thought to be a creature of myth and legend, Hikari was an angel that lived inside of Yumi. She could come out whenever she pleased. Full of magic, Hikari was a mystery to Yumi in many ways. However one thing she did know, Hikari talked telepathically. When she did use her voice, it was in song. A song so beautiful that all of nature quieted. Wilted flowers regained their beauty. Dead trees grew green leaves. Snarling beasts whimpered and fell asleep. Looking down at the four canines below, howling up at them in anger, Yumi asked, "Can you do something about them?" She felt the cold angels body warm just slightly as the magic within the angel stirred. It came forth in electric beams from her eyes, incinerating the mammals into burnt carcasses. Their teeth would sell for a lot of money. She could claim that they were already dead. That way no one questioned how an unarmed human escaped them unscathed. Yumi slowly returned to earth as Hikari lowered her. Her feet on solid ground once again, Hikari patted her head and went to pull out the large teeth. Careful to not accidently poke either of them with the venomous bones, she put them in the pouch for Yumi. Hugging her goodbye, she seemed to fold in on herself in a swirl of feathers. Disappearing from sight. However Yumi felt the angel inside herself and smiled. The best thing she had ever done was to meet Hikari. Something no one would have believed if she had told them. |
As if separated by an invisible line in the land, the woods were sectioned. Though surrounded by such beauty and gentle creation, soft grasses and easy sunlight, heavy green leaves and deep brown tree trunks, this area was a stark reminder of death in the lively area. Not even the venomous canines dared venture into the dark shadows cast by a canopy of charred black leaves, which appeared to be dead, but clung to their respective branches as if they feared the land below. The creatures that resided here were inedible when killed, and appeared to be in advance stages of decomposition when one killed and cut it open. How they existed in such a state was an absolute mystery, as much a one as was this patch of forest itself. A large area, within twenty miles’ range, only the most desperate a traveler would even near the outer wall of black trees. A feeling of misfortune radiated from within, and death seeped from the brown grasses, like a heavy fog lying over the area. The only things that could flower in such a place were heavy things, with thick petals of dark red or indigo. Their stamens dripped a heavily-scented perfume that often confused outsiders, should they decide to venture inside the area, and put a powerful weariness over them to put them into a deep sleep. The rotting animals took pleasure in this rare treat, and picked off the unfortunate traveler within minutes. The odd, disease-riddled things growled from shadows, and never thought to leave the sanctuary of their dark world. The sound of birdsong and insects buzzing and chirping were alien to the world within, and oftentimes, even flying creatures avoided flying directly over the land. The place was cursed, so many said. Cursed to give refuge to even the most despicable of creatures, things that can turn one’s insides rotten with a touch, or plague you with bad luck with a simple glance. Misbehaving children were made to be good with the threat that the little girl within those cursed woods would crawl out and drag them in to be eaten up by the foul things inside. Of course, Lili never heard of these threats. No one really knew whether a little girl existed within these woods, but the stories instilled fear and obedience in the young. Lili didn’t look, however, as the adults described her. True she appeared to be around eight or nine years old, but her hair wasn’t black as night---it was pale as a cloud, tipped gray, like those of a coming storm. Her eyes were not red, but a reflective gold, allowing her to see in relative dark. Her skin was not scaled, her hands not clawed, but a fair tone that resembled the petal of a real lily, though she’d not seen one in many years. While she did indeed live in the dead forest, she was never plagued by the animals, nor the intoxicating sweetness of the heavy flowers that seemed to put anything else asleep. Lili rested during the night in a nest of twisted tree roots, within the hollowed-out cavern of an ancient oak. The entrance was blocked by an old pelt, which looked to come from one of the venomous wolves that traveled outside the area. Her dress was simple, a sleeveless white slip of a thing that reached her knees and caught any stray breeze. Its hem was loose and a bit frayed from age, the color a bit off from its original white. Lili didn’t appear to be a strong type---she should have been killed the moment she stepped inside the shade of what she now calls home. The animals didn’t dare near her, however. Her shadow wouldn’t allow them---it sent her to destroy the creature before it could even consider its first course of action. And while she slept, he watched over her. The dark forest only became darker when a cloud drifted over the sun. Lili had been awake for a terribly long time---the night brought out the strangest creatures, and she just couldn’t resist capturing them. Crawling into the ever darkened oak’s trunk, she sat on a thick pallet of hay-like grasses and feathers from various crow-like winged creatures that couldn’t quite be called birds. As she laid down, resting her head on folded arms, her skin became black for a moment, and seemed to seep the color. In an instant, her shadow emerged from beneath her skin, acting as her eyes while she slept. She called him Ronin, and he silently accepted the name with a smile when she discovered him. While Lili had no idea where he came from, and Ronin rarely spoke, she had to assume he came from her. Her soul. He had, after all, said that he came from within her, her soul, the very first words he’d spoken, and they had wilted the black leaves of the nearby trees. She assumed this was why he didn’t speak but a very small amount---his voice, while light and airy, instilled death in weak life, even the life of those that appeared to be already dead. At first he had little substance. As Lili closed her eyes with a small smile, he became more solid, his skin lightening just a bit, his eyes glowing before settling for a dark gray tone---his long, stringy hair, looking more like individual tentacle-like arms, didn’t seem to settle, as if they were constantly caught in a light breeze. His clingy clothing stuck close to his skin, forming around his slender, long body, giving him a bit of a stretched appearance. He sat right beside Lili, his gaze fixed on the flap that hid the girl from the world beyond. While Ronin and Lili both emanated a rather unnerving energy, one could never be too careful in such a formidable area of the forest. The silence was almost absolutely complete, save the thin rustling of the dry leaves outside in the treetops. |
The settlement lay in the center of the valley. Meadows, forests, and many unknown havens of treasures or terrors circled the place. Those traveling to and from the settlement depended on the warrior guild whose members were excellent guides. They trained hard to hone their skills. More importantly though, they took the time to learn the terrain and types of animals and plants that existed there. They were caustic realists who could be depended on if you could handle their rather negative outlook on life. It wasn't that they were miserable. However they put their lives on the line daily for the timid and wealthy. So it was assumed that the warriors enjoyed watching those that were of a more fragile nature feel the insecurity of their chosen life. Their guild lay at one end of the settlement. A large, beautiful lodge of such immense size and strength that it could be under siege with little fear. The wood was protected by a special clear tar and it's underground cellars housed supplies as well as a spring.
On the other end of this settlement was the notorious mage guild. Made of stone, cold and imposing, the mage guild showed no similarities to any of the mage guild in the land. Unlike the common belief of those from other places and happier times, the guild was not there to protect the weak and save the day. Aristocrats who didn't want to get their hands dirty found ways to do things from a distance. A safe distance. They were powerful, with their strongest members constantly practicing and experimenting. There was little chance of a child discovering he had the gift and being able to take any member of the guild on. Those who belonged to the guild were ambitious and self-centered. They ruled the city council and set the laws of the land. The taxes imposed were created and carried out by them. Those who practiced magic and didn't join the guild found life very difficult. Taxes and opportunities to "volunteer" increased exponentially. It was a land ruled not by kings, ministers, or elected officials. It was a time of The Council. To escape them required living outside the settlement, an option few dared attempt. Surrounding the settlement was fortifications of stone with tar pits at the base. Guards patrolled along the top of the imposing structures, keeping an eye out for anything trouble. A number of alerts had been set up to warn the settlement of impending danger. Signal fires being the most obvious. Inside the main wall was a smaller, thinner wall meant to provide the people with a chance to pray for their souls before they were killed. For if the outer wall was breached, that would be the only good the inner wall could provide. So the guards on duty stayed alert. They kept an eye open for anomalies, creatures, and anything unusual. Such as a young female walking on the road alone. Something they didn't want to see, but knew was inevitable. The road was dusty under the shining sun. Yumi turned her brown eyes up and watched the guards watching her. They had seen the direction she had traveled. They cautiously worried something might have followed her back. Her tanned skin showed no injuries or stains of blood. So it was assumed all was well. Still, no one could be too careful with so many inside relying on their judgement. Yumi knew that she was a liability in many ways to the community. Yet also, her willingness to live outside the city gave her privileges that few others could afford. Being free from The Council's taxes was one such benefit. Still, she had to keep Hikari a secret. Hikari was a magical being. When she had been a young child, Yumi had been at a stream and seen a beautiful white stone. Reaching into the crystal clear water, she pulled the cool gem out and admired it for it's beauty. After a moment, she had started to return the stone back to the river when is warmed slightly and a sensation to kiss it filled her. As her lips brushed the stone, it has slipped inside her. Unbearable burning and freezing had filled her, causing her to cry out. Then it was like the world tilted into place. Hikari had been born. Now Yumi had some magic ability, an extension of Hikari's. Still, she had no desire to practice it and left that to Hikari. To this day, looking into Hikari's beautiful white face was like seeing her for the first time. Breathtaking. Reaching the settlement, she made her way through the city towards the doctor's residence. Reaching the white picket fence, she started to head to the office when she saw the doctor ambling out the front of his house. Business and home side by side, he never was hard to find. She thankfully went after her. "I have the plants you asked for. I also found some dead wolves out there. I have their canine teeth if you are willing to pay extra for them." She held her breath as he stared at her in surprise. Slowly but thankfully he responded, "Most people would have sold them to one of the guilds. They have more money. Thank you for your thoughtfulness. That will help in creating remedies. Come on inside." He led the way into his home. She could only feel relief that he had not questioned her further. |
Lili’s sleep was a long one. It allowed the sun to fall behind a gathering of clouds as her rest revived her mind and body, and gave her strength for the rest of the day. Her softly-lashed eyes flew open as though she hadn’t been asleep at all, and she pushed herself up to meet the gray gaze of Ronin. He hadn’t moved since she closed her eyes the first time, but now, he did. Standing, a trail of black mist followed his every move, and he lifted Lili with ease to her feet. “Lili. Our home is infested.” His voice was calm. Quiet. It was a general ease that made it so unnerving, and because Ronin never seemed to raise his voice when he used it, the sound placed an odd easiness into those outsiders that heard it. At these simple words, Lili’s gaze focused and she gasped. “What...?” Her small voice, light and airy, was certainly surprised. “What kind of infestation, Ronin?” “Humans.” Ronin whispered, a hiss that was more like a breath of air. “Bad humans. They seek us. They seek you. You, Lili. Their words are bad.” “What do they want with me?” Lili shivered. She’d been left alone for most of the time, and when some people managed to wander around the area, they’d be killed quickly. They never even realized she and Ronin were around before their rather gruesome demise. Some, she discovered, came in search of the flowers that grew here, rare things that only resided within the deathly shadows of only this particular place. They were good for sleeping and numbing tonics that were usually vital in medical practices, especially when one had an infection that needed to be operated on at once. Ronin moved to the flap that stretched over the doorway, moving with a fluidity that no human could. “They know of what you are. They want to capture you, take you away, and me too. And they want the flowers. They know they can get good money for it, and use that money to leave their needed jobs. They’re guards. They’re supposed to protect the settlement not far from here.” “We can’t... I mean... I can’t let them take me. And you. They can’t hurt you, Ronin.” “Oh, they won’t harm me, Lili.” Ronin’s dark face smiled lightly. “But I worry for you. Come.” He stepped toward her, becoming slightly transparent, and lost form, falling upon Lili as she closed her eyes and absorbed Ronin’s essence. She went to the flap, pushing it aside and leaping over the nest of high tree roots that obscured the area from whatever could maneuver the path outside. Indeed, she heard something. It wasn’t a good sound. Running to the shelter of a series of heavy bushes, she dove inside and stood still. Voices. Amazing how they had gotten so far into the area without death. As they came into view, she understood why. There were four. They all wore heavy masks that shielded their noses, mouths, and eyes from the sickly sweet perfume of the flowers they picked from time to time. As the flowers separated from their stems, a light hiss filled the air around them. “Where’s the girl gonna be?” One asked suddenly, staring around them. “In the trees?” “Don’t be so stupid. She’ll probably be in one of these ugly old trees.” One of the others took the lead, arranging his weapon in his hand. It looked something like a staff, tipped with a spearhead. Lili stared at the weapons as her black skin lightened, absorbing the rest of Ronin’s essence. “See now, Lili? They’re searching for you.” His voice echoed from within her head. “They’ll take you away from home. Away from me.” “Not you...” Lili’s voice shook. “Quiet now. You have to act if you want to protect our home.” Lili stood from where she crouched, and stepped onto the path. The men stopped, almost running into one another. They were warriors, their stance and gear spoke of it. One stepped forward. “Little girl...” He muttered. “”We’re here to help you.” Lili didn’t move. He stepped forward, and she tensed. “Can you understand me? We’re gonna take you out of this bad place. Come here...” “You’re not here to help! You want to take me away! Take Ronin away from me!” Lili brought up her hands. “I won’t let you!” “Kid---!” The one in front leapt up and back as she went forward, seeming to generate energy from the air around her as she willed a black, smoky object into existence, something that looked like a blade, and brought it down on the frontman. There was no sound outside a shocked gasp from the recipient, and a quick crunch that indicated crushing bones before he fell into two piles of bloody limbs and indiscernible clothing. The other three gasped, but one was far too close to Lili. She wrenched her hand back and went forward again, this time with nothing but her fist, and bored a hole through the plate armor on the man’s chest, grabbing something and pulling. His heart. It still beat for a few moments as she dropped it and pounced, like a wildcat, on the third, standing just behind her, as he raised his weapon. His neck was bare, so her teeth went for it. They had grown suddenly, with the help of Ronin’s own power fueling her anger at their presence. The last guard struggled away, taking the moment to get away. They had lined their path with pale gems, found in rivers and streams all over the place that gave off a light glow. As Lili’s teeth severed the man’s head from his shoulders, Ronin tugged at her mind. “He’s gone.” Leaping up, she followed the trail. It twisted first to the left, then quickly to the right, before the path escaped the darkness of the decayed area. She skidded to a halt, wiping her bloody hand and mouth on the soft green grasses as the surviving guard sped through the trees. “Where’s he going?” She asked. “There’s a settlement that way. Down in a bright, sweet valley full of life and animals that don’t try to rip your heart out.” Ronin’s voice was still calm, despite what had happened. The guard was gone. He would most likely not keep his mouth shut. |
Letting what little breeze there was play with her long brown hair, Yumi happily worked her way through town. She took care to avoid any mages she saw. It was rumored that those in the mage guild had powers of such a variety that a few could sense magic in others. She didn't want to put Hikari in danger or cause any trouble for herself. So Yumi found other routes when she saw them ahead. Working her way, she finally reached the gates of the settlement. Waving to the guards, she ignored their obvious bafflement at her enjoyment of being outside the settlement.
Along the outside of the walls, just past the wide tar trench that circled the settlement, were the small farm plots and small orchards. Those who dared tend these food sources were hardy and dedicated. Some might say cynical. In a few cases, some built homes on their plots and lived there too. On one such orchard was a small cottage. The older lady who lived here had strangely pink hair. Her eyes were full of paranoid suspicion and distaste. Yumi didn't seem to care as she reached this cottage with it's fruit trees surrounding it. She loved the old woman. She had purposefully saved one of the canine teeth to give to her. Figured that Usica could use them just as well as any herbalist or doctor. Seeing the red cloaked figure standing under a tree, Yumi smiled and ran happily over to her. Usica looked down with distaste at the younger female, "Yumi, how many times must I ask you not to bother me? I told you I don't like having visitors, yet you harass me all the same." Yumi realized that Usica was not in the most generous mood at the moment. Hesitating, she cautiously asked, "Do you have something to drink? Been out and about a lot today." Usica looked pained but turned and stalked back her cottage. Yumi followed, glad that she could give the tooth to Usica without the possibility of prying eyes. Once inside, she accepted the cup of cool water and settled on the couch. Usica snapped, "I never said you could sit! Drink and leave." Yumi shrugged, finished off the water and handed the cup back. "Usica, before I leave, I have something for you. Here..." she carefully opened her pouch and gingerly took the dangerous tooth out. She moved slowly so that Usica would not be alarmed. Despite her best precautions, Usica's sharp intake of breath signaled that she was surprised and nervous. Handing the tooth to Usica with the pointed side away, she smiled and said, "Here. I'm sure you can find use for this." Usica took it and glared at her, "Yes, ripping out your throat. Leave!" Smiling, Yumi turned and left. Heading out, she worked her way to the orchard next to Usica's. Her own plot. Originally her whole family had lived here but over time the disasters that they faced daily had taken their toll. Yumi was the only surviving member of her family. Thankfully her fruit didn't take much work. It was a type of fruit that grew overnight and was able to be picked only a few days out of a year. Precious fruit that made a variety of good things to eat as well as many uses depending on how it was prepared. She dropped off her punch at the door of her empty cottage and looked around the empty room, suddenly lonesome. A swirl of light and feathers came from her mid-section and Hikari was there. You are not alone young one, mind spoke the white marbled creature as she bent down and closed Yumi in her arms and wondrous wings. |
"You have to leave." "I don't want to, Ronin. I haven't left in years..." "I know, Lili. But it's best you do. They may send an entire army. The news of a girl who looks so innocent, so sweet, killing three armed guards in moments? Piercing armor with her bare fist? Love, it's best you leave this decayed place behind. We can always create another, can we not?" Lili nodded. Ronin's voice was within her head, and he spoke so much truth that she couldn't just ignore it. Standing on the topmost root of the largest outside tree, Lili decidedly leapt off of it, falling onto the ground. Her white hair spilled all around her, and when it brushed the ground, it left a charred track, just as her feet did as she stepped onto lively, new grass and thriving soil. Her first few hundred steps seemed to suck the life out of the earth below her feet, but as her body completely returned to the living world, she resembled and seemed like a normal human girl. Sometimes, in the shadow, however, Lili would seem to emanate a light dusting of blackness, and when a cloud grew too dark over the sun, Ronin's black bat wings would appear for an instant, and simply blow away in a gust of wind. She sighed, as she walked. Lili felt so tiny in this world of bright existence, and it smelled so plain. She had become terribly used to the thick, foggy scent of the decayed forest's heavy-petal flowers. And it seemed so loud. The insects in the grasses and trees, birds lying in their nests and flying overhead. She used to be alone with Ronin in her own little area of the world, where people and animals alike feared to tread. Now... "Ronin!" Lili huffed. "I hate it out here! I can't get used to everything, it makes me so uneasy..." "Calm, Lili, you know I watch the world for you." As a breeze hissed through the tall grasses and thinning trees, Ronin's dark essence encircled her, empowering the girl. "I'm always here with you, Lili. You'll never be without a bit of familiarity in even the most alien place." "I know..." Lili shook off the sensation of being watched by anyone more than Ronin. He saw what she saw, and then some. She slid down a hill and into a clear area, surprised to see farmland stretching before her. So wide open, it was odd. So odd, and so colorful and bright. Little houses dotted here and there before her gaze, and trees lined perfect little rows to her left. She went there, for the shade these short trees provided. "What if no one wants to be near me?" She asked suddenly. "What if everyone knows what kind of thing I am? Strange. Bad luck. Bad in general." "Love, you're not bad luck, nor are you bad. You defend yourself, as everyone does. That is nothing to be ashamed of, nor is it something to condemn yourself for." Lili sniffed. She and Ronin---mostly she---was on the run, in a sense. She'd killed three warriors. What would they think of her? Or did that fourth see her clearly enough? She didn't want to think of it. Instead, she turned her gaze on the trees, and walked through them. The little house nearby was cute, and easy on the eyes. But she didn't feel she could approach it. Ever. |
Inside the cottage, Yumi began to go through the cupboards. Finding an empty canister, she put that day's earnings into it and set it back on the top shelf. Closing the door and walking to the small pantry, she pulled out some vegetables and carried them to the sink. Hikari smoothed the girl's hair and turned to start preparing the meat for stew. They worked in companionable silence for a little while, then put their ingrediants together in a large pot. Hikari carried the heavy thing to the fireplace and in quick magic snap, had a fire going beneath it. Yumi wanted to curl up with Hikari to wait for it to boil, but Hikari was already swirling in on herself until she was but light radiating back into Yumi. Sighing, the girl went to the door and opened it.
Stepping outside, she stretched and wondered aimlessly towards the small creek. It divided her cottage and orchid plot from another. The small but quick creek provided fish for those who were willing to take the time to catch some. She wasn't one of them. Yet her good luck of not falling prey to the dangers of the world outside the settlement sometimes attracted visitors. They would pay to use her side of the creek to fish. No one had come in awhile though. The animals that ran wild had been acting more vicious than normal. Not even her good luck was enough to tempt a home with freshly baked fish. She didn't blame them. If an animal did attack, she couldn't help them without giving away Hikari. That was not something she wanted to do. For now, she tiredly walked to the edge of the creek and leaned against one of her trees. Staring into those depths, she suddenly had a feeling of being watched. Someone or something else was here. She froze. Then with acrobatic agility she leaped up and over, crouching and scanning for the disturbance. |
Lili's eyes were upturned, staring at the sky, admiring its blue tone against her pale peach-colored eyes. They watered a bit as the clouds parted even more, letting sunbeams hit the ground. She walked almost aimlessly through each row of short, squat trees, stepping over the roots where they popped up, touching a leaf or two as she went. It was admirable how they kept color, such a bright green, and were so thin. Perhaps the animals here didn't weigh down the branches and shake them so much, so their delicate frame could handle living without extra weight or durability. Walking out of the orchard rows, she looked again toward the cottage. It was still silent, standing like a stone in the middle of a small, bare area. She went toward it, though she'd never walk right up to the door. She wanted so badly to admire the artful way it had been built. It had been years since she'd been met with a real housing structure. "Someone's nearby." Ronin's voice, though still its eerie calm, was quick and urgent. Lili gasped. "What!? Where?" "I don't know, Lili. But you must remain calm. Remain calm and don't harm them. They don't seem bad." "But... Wh-what if they think me bad? And you? What if they try to harm us? I don't want to do anything to them!" She put her hands over her face, bracing for a moment, and as she did, her own power leaked through the soles of her feet and blackened the grass around her in a several-foot radius. She gasped, and ran toward the right of the home, toward where she could hear water. It was a shaded area, a good place. Shadow was good, it was always good. Ducking below a low tree branch, she skidded to a stop in front of a creek. As she stood, the grass again began to die under her. Settling for her left, she ran again, but tripped suddenly, quickly, over an especially tall root as she stole a glance behind her. Lili somersaulted once, landing on her hands, and as they hit the thriving ground, it sapped the life once more out of the grass, fertile dirt, and nearby wildflowers. Snatching herself away, she crossed her hands over her chest and cried. Whoever came for her, it was for the best. To be kept in a world of stone or metal, away from the living, may be best. |
Staring in complete surprise at the scampering girl, Yumi admired her somersault in complete fascination and wonderment. As she landed, the plant life around her turned black and to dust. Bewildered and immediately on guard against this seemingly helpless creature, Yumi stepped back with her hands in front of her in a defensive posture. Still though, the girl was crying. Who could resist a crying child? She could, but not Hikari's distress for the girl. Feeling Hikari's concern for the child, Yumi swallowed hard and slowly approached. Walking softly, she examined the child and the grass around her as she approached. As she neared the blackened circle, she slowed to a stop and knelt. Confusion written on her face, she looked over this strange little girl with her fair features. Such a child could not have so deadly an ability - could she?
Swallowing, Yumi let out some murmurs. "Shhh shhh shhh, hush child shhh shhh shhh." She wished she was hiding behind a tree instead but if this dead grass and flowers was any indication, the orchard was in just as much danger as she. Unless it only hurt plants and not creatures. Still, Yumi had no desire to test it and she felt Hikari's agreement. "Child, ease your sobbing. Who are you?" There had to be an answer to who this child was, why she was here, and what she wanted? If the magic guild sent her, then Yumi would give nothing away. If the magic guild didn't know of her existence, then it was better left that way. They would do anything to control the girl's abilities just as if they knew about Hikari's existance. |
Lili covered her face and curled in on herself. This was terrible. She’d not harmed anyone that didn’t mean to harm her. If she couldn’t get ahold of her emotions, she’d do something terrible...! “No, stay away!” She scuttled back. “I don’t want to hurt anyone!” Turning, she found herself face to face with a massive tree, cut off from escape. Her heart raced so quickly it felt as though her chest would vibrate away, and her breaths were shallow and quick. This young woman wasn’t someone to harm. Her voice was kind, her eyes soft, her movement slow, and the apparent worry that creased her face pulled at Lili’s heart. “Calm, Lili.” Ronin’s voice whispered, easily, and his essence surrounded her in a dark hug, squeezing for an instant before releasing. “You’ll not harm this girl unintentionally. She houses a power within that will not allow such a thing.” “Yo-you’re sure...?” Lili asked quietly. “Indeed. Approach her, Lili. She wishes to know your name.” Yes, that was right. The woman had asked her name. Had even called her child. She’d not been called child in... decades. “My name... is Lili.” She muttered. “I... I’m sorry. I don’t mean to come onto your land. I thought this place was... was empty.” She sighed shakily, easing her heart. Perhaps she wouldn’t have to harm anyone now. |
Finding her an interesting little girl, Yumi stayed knelt there letting her calm down. "My name is Yumi. I often share my land with others. Don't worry, I'm not angry with you." She paused. If she was afraid like this girl, what kind of reassurance would she want? "In fact, I am happy you are here. I've had a long day and would treasure the company. Especially from one as pretty as you. Will you give me your hand Lili?" Slowly, Yumi held out her hand in a welcoming and beckoning way. She felt Hikari inside her using her boosting abilities that she used for the sick. The wave of calming and caring that flowed from Yumi's fingertips was Hikari's power, but Yumi felt a little like it was herself. For her heart was in complete agreement and wished for it to be so. This child was so scared. Surely being held and served would do her some good. Also, Yumi liked the idea of playing hostess.
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As the young woman, introducing herself as Yumi, reached out, Lili felt an odd power flow through the air. When it met her, Ronin’s own power crackled in her ears as though it were an interference, but in fact, Ronin was reacting to it wordlessly. “Er, I don’t know...” Lili shrank away. “I-I wouldn’t want to be a burden...” She sniffed, getting her emotions under control. She’d probably kill the tree behind her if she didn’t. “Yumi has much power.” Ronin said suddenly. “But most of it isn’t hers. It’s of a clean, pure source within her.” “You’re not pure, though.” Lili muttered. “No, no I’m not. I’m of darkness, despair, born of cruelty and humanity’s anger. This one is... very different. A protector, like me to you.” Lili stared at the young woman. She held a clean, pure, good power, good energy. Good could always be tainted with bad. Even if Ronin didn’t mean to, he sometimes unknowingly corrupted creatures around him. But if he were right, and his reaction was anything to go along with, he wouldn’t accidentally do anything, just as Lili wouldn’t. She shakily stood. “I... suppose.” She said at last. “If I’m not a bother to you.” As she spoke, Lili bowed her head. |
Laughing happily, she said, "A bother? No, you are a most welcome guest. If you will hold your abilities for a moment, observe." She turned her palm face down and leaned into the dead grass. A musical melody floated into the air. A voice so divine that it had not words. Yumi's skin started to glow a beautiful white and with her eyes closed, she felt Hikari inside of her begin to sing her song. A song that healed and restored. A song that drew the sad, scared, anger, bitter, and lonely. A song that made everything feel worth something. The grass and flowers began to glow. As the melody died away, what remained was new sprouts of grass and budding flowers. Sighing in happiness, Yumi opened her eyes and smiled at Lili, "Do you trust me now not to become hurt?"
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Lili stepped back as Yumi glowed white, a tone so bright she had to look away. And a tinkling song seemed to fill her head, not of her own accord, but as if the song were inside her. Ronin fidgeted at the presence, and pushed it away, out of Lili. The young girl didn't quite know if that were supposed to happen, if the song were something within Yumi, but she was sure of what she felt. "You have... an angel inside you." She said suddenly. "I know that feeling. I can---" she cleared her throat. "I can trust... as long as you can trust me..." She put her hands in front of her, folded as if in prayer. Ronin stirred, coming to the surface of her skin and filling her veins with flowing darkness. He seemed to bloom from her back, unfurling hooked bat-like wings. He didn't take full form, remaining as a shadoy darkness behind Lili with hands protectively in front of the girl. "My protector is a born of evil, and darkness. But darkness not corrupted by lies." Lili whispered. "If your angel can accept him, he can accept her." Ronin nodded, twisting vine-like hair hanging about him like snakes, surrounding him and Lili. |
Staring in surprise at the dark creature behind Lili, Yumi looked down at the girl herself. She knew about angels? They were a myth to so many. Yet this girl recognized this angel's presence. Hikari unfolded out behind Yumi, her alabaster skin and white glowing eyes outshone by her long feathered wings. Speaking with her mind but so that all could hear her, she said, "My name is Hikari. Who are you, protector of Lili? What is your intentions in this world?" Yumi, slowly stood up and stepped back trustingly into Hikari's blissful arms. Not because she was nervous or scared, but because of the welcome sanctuary she always found there. Hikari wrapped the girl in her arms and leaned forward to listen to whatever his answer might be.
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Ronin spread his wings, shielding Lili a bit more, and bent over her. Lili reached back to take hold of his hands. Ronin’s reply was within his mind as well, but specific for only those present. ”My name is Ronin, protector of Lili. I exist not for myself, but for the life of this child, a watcher while she sleeps, while she walks a world she long ago left. I manage her power, for if she were to be alone, an entire forest would die in a moment.” It was true. That was why Lili lived specifically in the dark forest that no one wanted to walk through. That was why she feared leaving. When her emotions became too erratic, as they had a while ago, Ronin couldn’t contain all of Lili’s power, and they would seep out, killing grass, or a tree, or flowers. She’d not unintentionally harmed a human in a very long time. |
Hikari continued to lean poised over Yumi, her eyes simply observing. Yumi looked up at her, then looked back at Lili and Ronin. Well if her guardian wasn't going to ask any more questions, then she would have to do something. Looking around past the orchard, she couldn't see anyone. Still, why take that chance. If the magic guild found out about either of them, she would face high fees just to enter town until she joined the guild and their regulations. No telling what they would do with Lili and Ronin. "We should go inside. If anyone sees us... I've worked long and hard to not have Hikari found out. I protect her just as she protects me. Please..." she walked back to the cottage and opened the door for her two guests.
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Lili didn't want to move. She wanted to go home. Whatever that was, but she found comfort in its darkness. Ronin, however, nudged her along, even as he became a black mist and once again enveloped her, fading away. “I'd never betray Ronin's existence. Not Hikari's either.” Lili's voice was soft. Her skin was dotted with remnants of Ronin's presence, which faded as well, concentrating within her, where Ronin said her soul resided. He always told her that he protected her soul from harm, from darkness, from what could be evil and dark, outside him, anyway. Lili never considered him dark, but he always said otherwise. She stepped through the doorway, glad to be in a place enclosed, like her little patch of forest. |
Grateful the skittish girl had come inside, Yumi quickly closed the door and stood there for a moment uncertainly. The smells of the souping cooking in the fireplace filled the air with its mouthwatering fragrance. Moving there to stir it, she asked, "Do you like vegetables? That is the kind of soup I am making. It has meat too." Yumi had no idea what Lili ate or if Ronin required nourishment too. Hikari lived on the energy of Yumi's soul. If Yumi was depressed and have given up on life, she had no doubt that Hikari would become ill. That was what made her face each day with determination. Her favorite quote was "Strong and serious, matchless and marvelous, energetic and courageous!" It was what she told herself every morning when she woke up, every evening before she slept, every time she faced a challenge, and every time she reached a goal. To be a bright light in the world so that Hikari would always be her bright light in return.
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Lili stood near the door, until she was nudged forward with a kind push from Ronin. Stepping up, she twisted her hands together. ‘Um... Well, I don’t know. I mean...” She thought. “I usually eat whatever I can find. Mostly those flowers.” Recalling them, Lili smiled a bit. They smelled so good, but looked so dire. Their healing properties were well known though they provided food for those that managed to survive in the darkness. Including Lili. They grew rampant, and oftentimes Ronin would help by gathering the ones high above her head. Ronin, on the other hand, didn’t seem to eat. He’d told her once that he subsided on the evils of the world, pulled from the very air itself, and from Lili’s soul, so she wouldn’t be overwhelmed with where her power was derived. |
Not sure what to think of just eating flowers, Yumi decided to not over think it and just accept it as Lili's way. Giving the girl a bright smile, she turned and said, "Well then you are in for a real treat. This is my special recipe and can never be duplicated... mostly because I just throw stuff to gether." Winking to show her mirth, Yumi turned back to the kitchen and easily set up the table in a few deft motions. Simple but the faster to eat. Taking the bowls one at a time to the fireplace, Yumi scooped in the soup and set them back on the table. Adding a bowl of crackers to the center and one meal was ready to eat. "Come on over here and have a seat. This stuff isn't as good cold." She took a seat herself and started crumbling crackers into her soup.
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Lili stepped over as Yumi sat. She didn't feel as though she should be allowed to be in someone's house, but here she was. That, and being treated like a normal person. She knew she wasn't. But without trying to decline, she crawled up into the other chair and, being small, lifted herself onto her knees. The bowl steamed, lifting the scent of combined meats and vegetables to her face. Cautiously, she lifted the spoon beside it---something she hadn't used in many years---and dipped it into the mix, stirring a bit before putting it in her mouth. “Is good!” She commended, smiling at the savory soup. “Not so strong as the flowers, but really good.” It was like a nostalgia, bringing back a feeling she hadn't felt in quite a while, and where a memory should have been, only blurred shapes and tones melded together. She couldn't really remember anything beyond the day Ronin had sealed to her soul, though. |
The soup's savory taste smoothed it's way down her throat, erasing any last bit of tension that Yumi had. This small child before her was a treasure and a rather delicate one. Not that Yumi doubted Lili's abilities or that of her shadow guardian. But Yumi wondered if the heart that Lili had inside of her could handle the emotional drama that would come from rejection. She was clearly not used to being around others. Something Yumi wondered was a blessing. Humanity, though not all bad, was a majority self-centered. A lesson that the Mage Guild brought home all too often.
Inside of her, she felt her life force shift as her angel twisted awake with a jolt. Yumi paused and waited. Hikari would not normally be startled like that and would tell her what had caused it. "Yumi, go check the window. Usica comes. For her to leave her cottage is not normal for her. Her presence is unusually strong as well." Yumi jerked her head up and eyes towards the window. Usica? She never left her orchard. What could have inspired her? Placing her spoon beside her bowl, she shifted and stood up. Walking swiftly to the window, she pulled back the edge of the curtain just a bit to peek out. A figure hurried across the space between their orchards. It was hard to tell who with trees and their leaves in the way. Still, with Hikari's warning, it was most likely her neighbor, Usica. The strange lady who hated humans despite being a human herself. With unnatural speed, the old lady reached the lawn around Yumi's cottage in seconds. Yumi turned from the window to look at the door with wide eyes. She didn't have time to reach it. That old lady was already there, turning the handle, opening the door and stepping in as if she had taken a slow stroll down the road. |
Between bites of soft meat, Ronin shivered. It caused Lili to glance upward, and found Yumi had a strange look on her face. She’d become still, and seemed to be listening to a voice only she could hear. No doubt the angel within her. She wanted to speak, but Ronin did so for her: ”Someone comes, Lili. I find their essence disturbing. Avoid it.” Watching Yumi move to the window, Lili gasped and slid down from her chair, curling into a small ball under the table and hiding slightly behind the chair just as the door opened. Ronin shifted again, and she could feel his gaze looking out from behind her own eyes. It was with little doubt that her pale gaze had become black with his own. But he wouldn’t move until it was absolutely necessary, and though she knew she could handle herself, Lili still shivered. |
Stepping into the room, the woman closed the door behind her and scanned until she saw the table. Humphing, she turned to her neighbor, "Child, you were careless. Members of the mage guild are on the way. I don't know what you have been up to or have done to warrant their attention, but I assure you that your chances of dealing with them favor you in the forest. Begone." She turned and strode halfway across the room to stand squarely in front of the table. Looking towards it, she crossed her arms. In her brisque voice, she stated, "Little girl, know this. I don't like you. You are a nuisance. However, because your companion is okay, I will tolerate you. Bye." Turning, she was at the door, opening it, and gone.
Yumi gave a startled glance at the table and then turned to the window. For an old woman, Usica was sure fast. She was already out of sight. Yet there was no sign of the mage guild members who must be on the way. Usica, despite her gray hair and red dress, must really have had advance notice. Turning and walking back to the table, she crouched down to apologize. "I'm sorry, she hates humans." |
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