Cephiro, Elven Province

[Carthrat]

Okina shrugs. "I thought that you perhaps have learnt Dispel Magic... no matter.

As it stands, we do have a scroll that has the spell scribed upon it, but you would only have the one chance to utilize it. If you intend to go after the Matsu, then I'll give it to you."

[Halbarad]

"Perhaps we should divide our forces? Master Toshi and I could attempt to negotiate with the Matsu, while Umi and Fuu try to rescue Sakura-sama. I doubt I'd be much use for something like that anyway, other than in providing a distraction." Hikaru suggests.

[Carthrat]

"Is.. Shigen *hack* *cough* With Sakura?" struggles out Ukyo, eyes gleaming, interrupting something Okina was about to say.

[Halbarad]

"I believe so... the sailor who reported that she had been taken mentioned a ponytailed Doji monk; that was most likely Shigen." Hikaru glances over at Ukyo.

[Carthrat]

"Then *hack* I'm coming with you," Ukyo says. "A score *cough* to settle.."

He dosn't look like he could settle a score with an ant, let along Shigen.

[Corwin]

"Personally, I don't think we need to divide our forces over this, Hikaru," Umi says. "Since waiting for nightfall is futile, we might as well attempt to rescue Sakura-san right away. Once that is over with, we could afford to think about our next move."

[Ebiris]

"Well, the Matsu are ever encroaching upon our territory, and burning the forest as the march. I am not sure that it would be a good idea to delay dealing with them..." Fuu says thoughtfully at Umi's words, before continuing "On the other hand, if we split ourselves up, we run the risk of failing in both endeavours..." The brown haired elf hems and haws indecisively.

[Carthrat]

"Either way, time is of the essence," interjects Okina. "Sakura herself is no pushover; if all else fails, her presence will lend much to our defence.

However, should the Matsu arrive and begin attacking while you are gone, we have lost you. To be frank, you three are worth a hundred bushi.

Though Sakura may be able to shed more light on the Fey'Ri and this 'Demon Flower', it is more important that we survive. Decide soon, so I can make the necessary arrangements.."

[Ebiris]

Fuu sighs, not looking entirely happy. "It seems we are caught between the devil and the deep blue sea, as the gaijin say... Very well, it would seem we have little choice but to split up, since time is of the essence in both endeavours.

"Umi and I can attempt to rescue Sakura-sama. At best, with her help we may release the other prisoners and retake the ship, though failing that we could at least escape with Sakura-sama. I have a few spells which may assist us there...

"In any case," Fuu continues, reaching into her pack and withdrawing a small flask, "If you have problems with the Dispel Magic scroll, Hikaru, this Holy Water would also unmask the demonic taint of the Fey'ri, though you would have to first prove to the Matsu that it is indeed harmless water," she hands the flask to her shorter friend.

Fuu then looks at all present for any objections or suggestions to the plan, worry gnawing at the back of her mind that her deciding vote may have doomed all of them...

[Corwin]

Umi sighs. "Take care, then, Hikaru. Good luck." She gives Ukyo a glance. "I guess you're coming with Fuu and I, then?"

[Halbarad]

Hikaru accepts the vial from Fuu. "Both of you be careful as well. Best of luck to you in rescuing Sakura-sama."

[Carthrat]

"*cough* Assuredly," struggles out Ukyo.

"How many bushi do you think you'll need?" Okina asks Fuu. "Ten? Twenty? I doubt I can spare more than that, if any."


OOC: Just a headsup: Toshi ain't around. He went to take a bath, remember? He'll pop up soon enough, have no fear.

[Corwin]

"As many as you could spare us, Okina-san," Umi responds. "And, if possible, I would like us to use two boats to approach the one Sakura-san is being held on."

[Carthrat]

"Right," replies Okina. "Is there anything else I should know before I go?"

[Corwin]

"I don't believe so, Okina-san," Umi says, shaking her head.