Soulriders 5.0: Legend of the Unending Games

The province of Cephrio is a peaceful elven land, adjacent to the sea and three generall benign human provinces. When warlike incursions do occur, the elven martial might is brought to bear. More than one army has turned tail and fled from hundreds of arrows brought forth from seemingly empty forests, and even those that managed to close on the elves find their Samurai warriors more than capable with the blades they wield.

Forty miles from the border of Cephiro, deep within the High Forest is an elven canopy town, where house built into and hanging off the massive blackwood trees are inhabited by about a hundred elves. Everyone knows everyone else. The elves are going about their daily business; foraging, hunting, smithing, building, training, and the general tasks that must be done in any community. The town is aesthetically pleasing to behold, and is joined together by various bridges and the occasional rope swing.

A few elven samurai are keeping watch, though it's highly unlikely anything is going to attack. They look impressive in their armour, which despite being made of metal is light and flexible to allow room for movement. Katana and wakizashi hang at their belts, but their most useful weapon is the one in their hands; their enormous Daikyu's, ready to unleash a flurry of arrows on any enemy of elfdom.

Three elfmaidens sit inside one of the elven houses, chatting away aimlessly at this and that. They know it's their turn to take watch in an hour, but they also know that that mostly consists of more talk..

During this conversation, a pointy-eared head pops through the curtain-door. "Fuu-san, Umi-san, Hikaru-san. You've been relieved from guard duty. Instead, Master Toshi would like to see you in half an hours time. He said it was important, but wants you to have the rest of your time free before he sees you."

With that, the face leaves, leaving the girls to wonder..

OOC: Ok, physical descriptions, girls. I'll start the game proper tomorrow, so have some fun, or whatever. The house is yours to toy with. ^^

"I wonder what Master Toshi wishes to see us about?" says on of the elf girls, rising from her seat.

Fuu Phoenixwind stands at near average height for a female elf, barely topping five feet. She is dressed in a loosely fitting, wide sleeved gi top, with a Tao symbol on the front. Underneath that she wears a similarly coloured dress, tied with a black obi, which flares out into a knee length skirt. Her legs are also covered by leggings which come down to just above her ankles, and she wears comfortable indoor slippers on her feet. The uniform green of her attire is only broken by the trimming, which is a light brown, matching her fairly short hair.

Umi Dragonsblossom, a 5'2''-tall moon elf with rich, long sky-blue hair stands up and turns to look at her two friends, her large light-blue mantle flutterring. A blue tunic, complementing her eyes perfectly, covers the elfin girl's upper body to the waist, where it splits into twin long, loose flaps that extend down to her knees. The split between the tunic's tails shows that the girl's modesty is guarded by a black leotard, worn underneath her clothing. Her legs are covered by flexible white boots that reach her thighs, while white, elbow-length gloves inlaid with large azure gems, complete the attire.

"I don't know," Umi replies to her blonde friend, before focusing her mind on the azure gem in her left glove, which glows in response. A mithril shirt and a pair of arm bracers appear on her, fitting in perfectly with the rest of her clothing, as if they were tailored towards that end. At the same time, a long rapier appears in her hand. The sword's hilt is made in the image of a dragon, the wings serving as the crossguard, and it glows slightly as she gives it a few practice swings, the large, deep-blue shoulder guards of Umi's outfit not restricting her motions in the slightest.

"But I figure we might as well be prepared," she says, returning her weapon back into the glove, yet keeping her armor on.

Fuu smiles indulgently, "I doubt we will need to be armed just to visit Master Toshi," she says, walking over to a nearby shelf and picking up a quiver of arrows which she ties onto the obi round her waist. Nodding once it's secure, she goes to the door and takes the long, forest green cloak which hangs there, swiftly donning it, while at the same time kicking off her slippers and sliding her feet into a pair of soft leather boots. Her preperations almost complete, she finishes by grabbing her Daikyu from where it hangs on the wall, securing the unstrung bow underneath her cloak. "But since we will likely have to begin our watch after seeing him, there is no harm in getting ready."

The third of the group stands up and giggles. "At least I don't have to worry about that very much. I hardly need to get ready at all."

Hikaru Lionheart smiles from the bench where she's been listening to the exchange between the other two. The girl, slightly shorter than either of her companions, is clad in a soft pink lotus-patterened silk kimono, with the cuffs and skirts hemmed in golden thread, the garment held in place by a deep scarlet obi. Her short pink hair is somewhat messy, and a smile plays at the corner of her mouth. "I hope Toshi-sensei's got something interesting for us to do; guard duty every day is kind of boring. Maybe we'll get to go out on a long scouting trip or something."

"A scouting trip... how exciting," Umi says, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "You're right, though," she continues, deflating slightly. "Daily guard duty doesn't exactly give us enough chances to meet worthy opponents."

"I'm sure whatever Master Toshi has for us will be important, since he would hardly call us out simply to tell us to do what we were doing anyway," Fuu points out reasonably.

It isn't long after this little talk that the tree elfmaidens find themselves in front of their esteemed Master's presence.

Toshi was known throughout the elves as Master; not because of his fearsome fighting prowess, but because of the great deal of lore he had acquired on many different topics. When an elf had a question, the first person to turn to was probably master Toshi. He was a great storyteller to children, a learned teacher to young adults, and a consultant to everyone.

He acquired much of this knowledge on his oft-talked about journey throughout the rest of Japania, and is the subject of some heroism with younger elves. His hut is rife with odd items.

It's also something of a chaotic mess at the moment, as the elfmaidens step into the area. Toshi has apparently been searching for something. Maps, books, the occasional weapon, open chests of odd junk, a strange hair ornament, something the girls remember him calling a 'clock' (some gaijin invention that's meant to tell the time, but what use is telling the time when nobody else can tell it?), and all sorts of other assorted junk were strewn about.

The elf himself was kneeling in the middle of all this rubble, a lock of black hair hanging from his face. He was a middle-aged elf; right up there in the four hundred bracket. No wrinkles showed on his face, and like all elves, he was beardless. He was wearing lots of white; a white gi top and hakama pants, with a yin-yang stiched on the breast and on the back.

He was apparently meditating on something. His katana was at his side; a rarity for Toshi. Despite his incredible skill with the blade, he was not often seen with it, stating often that to carry a blade is to have the intent to use it.

"Ah, girls," he says, opening his eyes when they walk in. "Sit, sit. Oh, clear some space, I don't need most of this junk. Would you like some tea?"

The girls all instantly pick up he's worried about something; Toshi does not often mince words, not to mention the state of his usually pristine hut and the fact that he's wearing his blade..

Fuu quickly moves aside a few items to clear enough space that she can kneel before the Master.

"Some tea would certainly be nice, Master Toshi," she says appreciatively. Besides which, he seemed rather distracted, and making tea would no doubt give him a few moments to collect his thoughts.

"Yes, of course," he replies, quickly going about the motions with a kettle in his fireplace.

A few moments later, when everyone has a cup of tea in their hands, he seems to collect himself.

"The Matsu family is massing on the northen border," he says, abruptly changing tone. "Again. Apparently they believe that after a few years we will be less strong than before."

You all have flashbacks to that last Matsu invasion. They had managed to push a fair way into the forest, but were turned back when the main elven force was brought to bear. Hundreds of arrows demorialized their troops, even more than simply inflicting casualties. While they managed to burn some chunks of woodland, they eventually turned with their tales between their legs. The elves approached other, neighbouring provinces whom they were more friendly with. These provinces agreed to place trade sanctions on the Matsu. The Matsu were extremely bitter, but could not retaliate because they knew the Elves would not take kindly..

"My scouts have told only me this today, but it will be common knowledge by midsun tomorrow. I am.. concerned," he continues. "The Matsu attacked us originally for our land, but this time around, I fear they may be out for revenge. My early scouts reported that instead of preparing an army for taking of ground- that would consist mostly of archers and infantry- they are preparing catapults, burning oil.. they observed archers being trained in firing flaming arrows.

They've even brought a few shugenja along; in typical Matsu fashion, most of their weaves are focused on destruction, I'm told.

However, this concerns me to a great deal. While it is true that human samurai often worry far too much about marks on their honor and so forth, we defeated them in fair combat. An invading force dedicated to destruction seems over the top for Otoshi, the Matsu Champion. While he is seemingly devoted to taking as much territory as possible, never once has he simply set out to destroy, rape, and pillage as we believe this army is going to do."

Toshi lets out a sigh, and produces something from the rubble.

It's a small bowl filled with liquid that does not tip out no matter which way it turns. You all remember seeing it before.

"This is, as you likely know, a scrying dish. I have been trying to use it to spy on the Matsu camp from afar.. but my efforts are blocked, somehow. I don't know where the Matsu would have acquired a device to prevent my scrying; I know for a fact that their spellweavers are not skilled enough to prevent my spying.

Before I decide on what to do, I'm interested in what you have to say about it. Youth may see what age does not," he finishes, with a chuckle.

Hikaru groans. "I wanted something to do besides guard duty, but this is NOT what I had in mind."

She gives the scrying dish a curious glance. "If the Matsu themselves can't stop you from spying on them, who can? I mean, it's obvious they've got some kind of help, but figuring out who it is will be the tricky part."

"The Himura, or possibly the Asahina," replies Toshi. "I believe both those clans were allied with the Matsu.. but it seems unlikely, to me. The scouts didn't report any samurai except Matsu samurai at the camp, and neither of the other clans would have left such a potent power in Matsu possession without leaving a group to guard it, even if it is just a token resistance."

Fuu sips her tea thoughtfully as she considers her response. After a moment, she sets the cup down and speaks, "Perhaps whomever is blocking your scrying is also the one instigating the Matsu to act in this manner. Rather than the Matsu making use of someone of considerable power to hide their army, perhaps it is someone of power who seeks to use the Matsu as a catspaw against us? Someone of such power would no doubt possess considerable leverage amongst the humans."

Toshi nods, smiling. "Exactly what I thought, Fuu. I do indeed believe that someone or something is manipulating the Matsu. Furthermore, I have suspcions on who it may be," he says, producing a strip of purple cloth emblazoned with an image of a green tiger.

"This is the insignia of the Daidoji clan, a clan which, as you well know, is extremely well versed in trickery, deception, and working behind the scenes.

We can now eliminate them from our list of possible subjects," he finishes, putting it away. "One of my scouts found it far too easily; it must have been a plant."

"Well, you obviously have some idea about the likeliest suspect, Master Toshi," Umi comments. "More than any of us would, in any case."

"You're correct," says Toshi. "I believe the most likely possibility is the Doji, a breakoff clan from the Daidoji. The Doji loathe the Daidoji for a number of reasons, not least of which is the fact that they were once part of the same clan and were exiled."

He strokes his chin, thoughtfully. "I cannot be sure, however. It may be a ruse within a ruse within a ruse. The webs some people weave are altogether too thick for my liking.

So I have decided to have you lead a small party of soldiers to scout out the Matsu camp in more detail," he finishes. "Only three of my nine scouts returned," he says. "The three that survived spoke of their allies being slain via magic, instead of arms, as the Matsu would be prone to do. Instead of sending scouts, I would rather send some people with a little more experiance in the human world," he says, giving a rare smile.

"We would certainly be interested in getting to the bottom of this matter, especially if it could avert another war with the Matsu," Fuu says, smiling as she recalls their last trip to human lands. "So when would you have us leave, Master Toshi?"

"Within an hours time," replies Master Toshi. "I will see to preparing a group to travel with you.

I do not wish to fight this sort of battle. While I am certain we would be the 'victor'.. I do not believe there is any real way to 'win' a war, if you understand what I mean.

How you approach the Matsu is up to you. Through stealth or by approaching them with the right of parley. As Samurai, they will be obligated to give you safe conduct.. though I am not so sure they would be so willing anymore."

Fuu rises and bows respectfully. "Very well, Master Toshi, we shall see to our preperations and be ready to depart within the hour."

Toshi himself rises, and bows. "Is there anything you wish to know or add before we begin?"

"Master Toshi, if we use the right of parley," Umi asks, cocking her head, "and attempt to reason with the heads of the Matsu, how much discretion could we use? And, again, if that fails and they choose war?"

Toshi ponders.

"Normally, you would have the right to demand their reasons," he says. "Honor dictates they answer, and the Matsu are- well, were an honorable can.

Were being the point in clause. You are not samurai. This brings advantages and disadvantages, as I'm sure you're well aware of. While morally, it would be wrong to kill you if you chose to parley, I believe that if the Matsu really are bent on sheer destruction.. it would not be wise to go in without an escape plan.

If they being to march towar, don't bother reporting to me. Head straight to the capital and tell the Sakura, Clan Champion. I have already dispatched a runner to inform her, but she would not know if they were actually marching."

"Perhaps it would be best to try and observe the situation before revealing our presence," Fuu muses.

Toshi nodded. "As I thought. Well, I must see to preperations now. In an hour.."

With that, he walks out, one hand on his katana.

Hikaru blows out a breath as she leads Umi and Fuu out of Toshi's home. "Definitely not what I had in mind when I was hoping for a scouting trip. I hate all this political stuff.

"I like Fuu's idea though. If these guys are really just out to destroy everything, I want to make absolutely sure we've got a way out before we try talking to them. I just hope we can get our soldiers out too."

"Of course we will!" Umi tells Hikaru. "I'm not accepting any plan that sacrifices them so that we could get away."

"Well, as Master Toshi said, the Matsu are an honourable clan. It wouldn't surprise me if our mysterious third party is putting pressure on them to attack in this manner. Honourable warriors tend to chafe at being forced to act against their usual code. We might be better served by not commiting to any negotiations until we have a clear idea of who is instigating them, and then helping the Matsu to understand that they would be better served by remaining on our good side, over the other group," Fuu suggests as they enter their home.

"He said they were honorable. What if they're so determined to get revenge that they've let their honor fall aside? I know we don't know that yet, but it could still be true."

Fuu's smile slips. "If that is the case, then nothing we can say will change their course. Our only option, then, would be to try and stymie the efforts of their army before getting word to Sakura-sama so that our forces can rally to defend the forest."

"And maybe, more options will be open to us when we know more about the situation," Umi adds, smiling. "Let's not be so pessimistic!"

After an hours time of preperation, the elves are kitted out and ready to go. Their little group consists of about 6 Samurai (all trained in stealth, of course), and one of the original scouts who looked over the camp.

There was an amusing rift between the Samurai and the elfmaidens. While, technically, the Samurai outranked them, and as such they were supposed to report to the Samurai, it was an unspoken rule that in times of joint cooperation, they would work with the three girls as leaders, in a sense.

Toshi is also there, standing to one side. "You should be able to reach the camp a short time after night has fallen. Koshi will advise you on the layout of the camp, for he has seen it.

Is there anything else you want to know?"

"I believe we are ready to go, Master Toshi, unless you have any other information you feel is relevant," Fuu answers the older elf's question before turning to her friends, "Can either of you think of anything we should ask about?"

Umi shrugs. "I'm good to go, Fuu."

As the elves agree, a rustling is heard in the bushes.

Suddenly, something leaps out of a nearby tree, latching onto Umi with incredible strength!

"Umi-chaaaaaaaaaaan, are you leaving again? Why didn't you tell me?" a voice cries out, audiable to all.

It is, of course, Ami, a young elfling who views Umi as something of a hero. She's even tried using a rapier to emulate the sometimes-adventurer; however, it's a little too big for her frame, and the gaijin who sell them don't import child-sized swords.

She's wearing a childs kimono taht dosn't hinder her movement in the slightest; it's been cut short at the legs. A 4'4 ball of compacted energy describes her best.

"Gah!" Umi exclaims articulately, tumbling. "Ami, stop that," she says, squirming.

Ami refuses to let go. "Last time you left, you didn't come back for months!" she exclaims. "You didn't say goodbye that time, either," she complains.

"I wonder why," Umi says, more to herself than for the child's benefit. "Listen, Ami, how about I teach you something cool when I get back?"

"Something cool?" the kid exclaims, jumping off Umi, doing a little flip, and landing on her feet. "Like what?"

Fuu hides a giggle behind her hand as she watches Umi try to deal with Ami.

"If I told you now, it wouldn't be a really cool surprise, now would it?" Umi asks, climbing to her feet.

Ami looks like she's about to protest further, but Toshi intervenes. "Now, Ami, Umi won't be gone long, though I'm as interested as you to see what she was to teach," he says, a small smile playing across his face. "But really, it's time to go," he says, turning serious. "Be back as soon as possible."

With that, the small part of elves leaves, heading for the northen border..

<->

"The Matsu camp is pretty typical," says Koshi, the scout who was sent with you. "Well, at least, it looked pretty typical. We didn't expect so many spellslingers.

They havn't bothered erecting a pallisade, but they did dig a fair sized ditch around the camp; a couple of metres deep, I think. It's not so wide, it's pretty much just a token defence against a charge.

Anyway, I remember we all got in the camp fine. It's laid out haphazardly, so if you need to run, that'll work to your advantage. It's sort of a rectangle in design, with the Champions tent right in the middle. You can't miss it, it's got his banner flying from it. Aside from that, all the sleeping quarters were at the front of the camp; that is, they were adjacent to the forest. Did I mention the camp is like ten metres away from the forest?

Well, at least it was. I'm pretty sure they'll have used it for catapult practice or something by now, so by the time we get there, they'll probably be a further distance away.

I remember there weren't many guards; it was sorta surprising, getting in and snooping about was pretty easy. But then, well, one of the Shugenja spotted Tojo, and it all went to hell. They've got these wands and walk in pairs; one of them has something that'll freeze you in your tracks, and then the other just blasts you until you're dead. We would've gotten away so easy if it wasn't for them."

He sighs, looking downcast.

Fuu fingers the edge of her cloak as she walks alongside Koshi, "That being the case, I'm beginning to think trying to parley with them could prove especially dangerous. We should definitely make a careful investigation of their camp before we risk revealing our presence."

"If you say so, Fuu." Umi shrugs. "Who goes to check out the camp, though? The more people that come, the larger our chances to be discovered by those Shugenja."

"I think myself and Koshi would be the best choices. We are both trained in stealth, and I have a few spells which would prove useful if we have to make a hasty retreat," Fuu answers, a frown marring her features. She might be good at sneaking around, but she'd much rather she didn't have to...

"Then don't take any stupid risks," Umi tells Fuu, smiling. "That's my department." She gestures at Hikaru and the rest of their group. "Us eight would just wait for you to get back... but we'll be there at the first sign of trouble."

Hours later, at night..

The party has arrived close to the enemy camp.

However, between them and the camp lies an expanse of scorched earth. Apparently, the catapults have been firing for quite some time; a few rocks are around, but mostly they must have been using oil, judging by the expanse of black land.

The samurai elves have quickly set up a small camp of their own about a hundred metres into the woods, and presently await orders.

The camp itself, from this distance, seems to be as Koshi described it; sort of a rectangle in shape, but the tents are all over the place. Elven sight allows you to see the few guards wandering around from your vantage point of the forest. They patrol in groups of three; a single samurai and two shugenja, each carrying a slender wand.

The night is thankfully both moonless and cloudy, however, giving the elves an advantage of sorts.

As she strings her Daikyu, Fuu outlines her plan to the others. "We will go to the edge of the forest, where I will cast a Silence spell on myself. Then Koshi and I can sneak into the camp, hopefully undetected, until we reach the Champions tent. Once we are safely hidden near there, I will cast a spell to see if I can detect anything evil here - which should point us towards what is manipulating the Matsu." She sighs softly before continuing, "If I cannot detect anything, we will have to try and investigate the Champion's tent itself. If we get into trouble, the results should be obvious to the rest of you."

Finished explaining, she looks around for any suggestions or problems to be pointed out.

"If I were you, I'd sneak around first before trying to solve everything with spells," Umi says, before snorting. "Of course, if it were me, I wouldn't bother to sneak into their camp in the first place. Take care, Fuu."

Putting her now strung Daikyu on her back, Fuu pulls over the hood of her cloak as she leads the other elves to the edge of the forest. "The spell will keep us silenced for a few moments - long enough to reach the champions tent, but remember to stay close to me at all times," she tells Koshi as they walk.

Reaching the edge of the forest, Fuu hunkers down under the cover of the foliage and watches the pattern of the patrols, waiting until there are none covering the path between the elves and the camp.

It's not long before Fuu can decipher the patterns of the guards and find a hole in their defensive perimetre to slip into..

Once she has determined the best way to enter the camp, Fuu waits until the hole in the patrols presents itself once more. "Here we go, wish us luck," she smiles at Umi and Hikaru before casting a Silence spell centred upon herself. As she finishes, and all sound within the area ceases, she beckons Koshi to follow, and exits the cover of the forest, keeping low to the ground as she approaches the ditch surrounding the camp. Picking up her speed, but still remaining completely silent thanks to the spell, she takes a running jump to clear the ditch, before using a nearby tent for cover and peeking round to get a better view of the camp interior.

The camp is set up all over the place, as Koshi said. Most of the soldiers and samurai are sleeping in the tents, though a few are placed here and there, surrounding cracking fires and talking about stuff Fuu can't quite hear without getting closer.

The Champions Tent was visible; it was about 75 metres into the camp.

Fuu also saw a few women dressed in kimonos coming and going from tents; they must have been geisha, given their extremely pale skin, their hairstyles, and even just the way they walked promised absolute pleasure for anyone they spoke too..

Using the other tents as cover, Fuu stealthily makes her way towards the Champion's tent, being careful to peek around each tent and check for no patrols or alert samurai before she continues on her way.

Fuu almost crashes into a pair of Samurai chatting about some recent events today, just barely skittering off into a hiding spot from which she could move out of easily.

"..and that Usagi-chan, just sublime. Otoshi's done us all a service, bringing those geisha along on this trip."

"I'll say.."

Biting her lip, Fuu slowly backs off from the conversing Samurai, staying to the shadows until she can duck around the corner of a nearby tent. Then she continues on in that direction until she gets a clear path to continue back towards the Champion's tent.

Fuu manages to sneak around the side of Champions Tent, and just barely manages to drop to the ground and make like some grass as Otoshi himself emerges from the tent.

Standing 6'3 and wearing Great Armour, he's an imposing figure. With broad shoulders and strong muscles, a nodachi strapped to his back as well as the standard Katana and Wakizashi on his belt, and a flushed expression on his face as if he's just done some streneous physical work, he looks every part the warrior champion he is supposed to be.

He strides off, leaving his tent unattended..

Confirming that there is no one else nearby, Fuu checks on Koshi, putting a finger to her lips before quietly casting a Detect Evil spell.

There's a source of Evil emnating from within the Champions Tent. It's quite strong.

There isn't any other evil to be spoke of around the immediate area, though.

Meanwhile, back at the forest edge..

"Umi-san," one of the Samurai says softly. "We should split up around the forest outskirts instead of clumping in one area. If we must flee, it makes it easier to give cover fire and split up."

Fuu grimaces slightly at the strong feeling of evil coming from the tent, then she recalls how Otoshi had looked, and blushes. "Oh, my..."

Deciding to be extra cautious, she quietly casts Detect Magic to get a better idea of what to expect inside the tent.

"Alright," Umi replies just as quietly. "Hikaru, take a group with you and flank them, while I'll wait here for Fuu. If you have to run and can't meet up with us, head to report to Sakura-san as we've been ordered."

Hikaru nods. "I'll stay close enough to keep an eye on you though. Best if we don't get separated if we have to get out of here in a hurry."

Picking out three of the samurai, she heads towards the side of the camp, making sure to remain concealed in the forest as much as possible.

There are two sources of magic; one is of moderate strength, the other is of comparably low strength. The moderatly strengthed aura is coming from the same presence the evil aura is; the other item appears to be being worn by it.

Motioning Koshi to stay where he is, Fuu edges closer to the tent, keeping low to the ground, and peeks through the partially open flap.

Inside the tent you can make out a half-dressed geisha, pulling on a silken kimono. She's sitting on a slightly rumpled futon.

She's also wearing a ruby ring that stands out via your spell..

Firming her resolve with the knowledge that this person is evil, Fuu bursts into the tent and aims a thrust kick right at her head, with the intention of knocking her out in a single mighty blow!

With nary a shout, the woman drops to the ground, her mouth an 'o' of surprise.

The ring on her finger is glowing..

Giving a quiet thanks to Windham for her good fortune, Fuu looks around the tent for any battleplans/maps/journals, or anything else that would provide insight on the Matsu's plans.

Turning the place upside down, Fuu finds two things of intrest.

The first thing is a stack of scrolls with various maps and lines drawn on them; some text here and there, all relating to an invasion of the capital of Cephiro..

The second thing is another scroll, in a langauge Fuu can't understand.

At that moment, Koshi pokes his head it. "We have to move!" he whispers, before ducking out.

<->

Meanwhile...

Hikaru and Umi have split up. Each have taken three samurai with them,
and are quietly watching the camp.

Hikaru and her fellow Samurai hear a slight rustle behind them. Turning about, they see.. monks.

Five monks are approaching, wearing the Doji style outfit; light pants and light shirt with a headband emblazoned with a serpent. The leader of the group is the only one with hair; he has a long ponytail reaching to the ground.

He also looks a little disgruntled that you spotted them, but nonetheless, his brother monks charge Hikaru and her party all too fast. Soon, the samurai are locked in combat, with Hikaru managing to escape a direct confrontation by just a few metres.

Meanwhile, Umi sees movement coming from Hikaru's position..

Umi gets the attention of the samurai in her group, and tells two them to flank those attacking Hikaru's group along with her. She leaves one in reserve to wait for Fuu, and to alert them to other attackers, if he spots them.

Quickly gathering up all the maps and scrolls, Fuu folds them and puts them in her gi, also pulling the glowing ring from the woman's fingers and pocketing it before leaving the tent and ducking into the shadows.

Hikaru manages to step back from the growing melee and casts shield on herself, risking a glance back in Umi's direction to see if she's noticed the trouble yet.

Hikaru sees the Samurai and Monks going at it as she weaves her spell. The Samurai are very good at their job; one of the monks is already down, and the rest are hard pressed to keep up.

All of a sudden, the ponytailed Monk leaps in and takes a samurai out for the count, leaving two standing.

Hikaru also sees Umi approaching; she'll arrive in about 10 seconds at her present rate.
<->

Fuu gets out the tent; she also notices the ruby ring going dull as she picks it off the womans hand.

Once safely outside, she sees Otoshi returning towards the tent..

OOC: Hikaru, there's one more round before Umi reaches you. 3 standard monks and a dude with a ponytail on vs. 2 samurai and you.

Hikaru grimaces. Facing the ponytailed monk, she draws a trio of shuriken from her obi and hurls them towards the monk; they burst into flames as they leave her hand and speed towards their target!

One of the Shuriken goes wide, but the other two impact on the ponytailed monk. With a sizzle and a cutting sound, they stab into his leg, but they barely slow him down as he unleashes more blows upon the samurai..

Another monk goes down, evening the odds somewhat.

Materializing her rapier, Umi attacks the ponytailed monk, having pegged him as the strongest opponent from what she'd seen while getting to Hikaru's aid.

Seeing Otoshi approaching, Fuu decides to make her getaway before he realises his tent has been ransacked and his... companion, isn't actually sleeping.

Slipping around to the other side of the tent, so it lies between her and Otoshi, she gestures Koshi to follow then makes her way to the next tent. Once away from the Champion's tent. she returns back the way she entered the camp, using the tents for cover and keeping low and to the shadows.

Hikaru gestures towards the tree nearest the long-haired monk, and as she mutters the words of an incantation the trunk explodes in a cloud of splinters.

The splinters barely scratch the monk, as he zips past the Samurai and rushes at Hikaru..

..just in timed to be intercepted by Umi's rapier. He quickly rediverted his attack into a straight punch to the womans midsection.

The monks and samurai are still fighting, but with Umi's reinforcements, that battle is decided already.

OOC: 6 damage, j0.

Grimacing, but not letting the pain distract her, Umi shows the monk her true skills with the rapier.

Hikaru draws three more shuriken from her obi, stepping to the side to get a clear shot at the monk. She aims carefully, then lets the projectiles fly once again.

Two of the shuriken smack into the ponytailed monk, who is breathing quite heavily now. With Umi's prompt stab, he backs off, bleeding quite a bit.

"You'll never make it back to town alive, *elf*," he snarls, before rushing off into the woods.

Meanwhile, the Samurai are finished dealing with the monks, who fall to the ground.. and vanish into mist.

The downed Samurai aren't dead, just unconcious.

<->

Fuu hasn't gotten far from Otoshis tent when a cry of rage is heard, and she can hear the man screaming, "Spies! Spies in the camp! Kill them!"

She's about halfway from the champions tent to the edge of the camp..

Grimacing, Fuu decides to take the most direct route to the perimeter of the camp, keeping to the shadows and using any available cover as she does so.

"There she is!" comes a shout. Fuu feels a wash of magical energy going through her.. and dissapating, apparently to know effect. In the corner of her eye, she can see that there's a man pointing a slender stick at her, along with a buddy, also pointing a stick-

A blast of energy impacts soon after the earlier spell, but it's pretty weak. Fuu barely registers it.

"Hikaru, create a diversion!" Umi tells her friend, hearing the cries from the camp. "Then, don't stick around and retreat to our previous camp."

Having said that, she glances at one of the remaining samurai, telling him, "We can't let him get away!" and dashes off after the head monk.

Seeing that the game is most definitely up, Fuu casts Obscuring Mist to cover her getaway before she dashes for the perimeter of the camp.

Hikaru turns to the remaining samurai. "You two, take care of the fallen. Try and get them back to our camp if you can." She turns to the third of the group. "Stay with me, I'm just going to create a distraction and then we're getting out of here."

Hikaru turns to the near edge of the forest and casts Fiery Eyes. A moment later, two beams shoot from her eyes, and she focuses them on the trees at the edge of the forest in an attempt to set them ablaze.

As Hikaru casts her spell, she sees a mist pop up within the camp.

Her diversion attracts a slight amount of attention from guards, who rush over to investigate.

<->

Fuu is safely ensconced in her mist and manages to make it to the ditch, coming face-to-face with a fully-armed Samurai warrior, sword drawn and pointing at her!

<->

Umi barely manages to keep sight of the monk as he rushes away, and he's slowly drawing away..

As she nears the Samurai, Fuu casts command, saying "Surrender," to the battle ready warrior.

"Come on, let's get out of here!" Hikaru motions to the samurai remaining with her, and the two quickly head back to the elves' camp further inside the forest.

"Damn!" she curses, breaking off the pursuit and signaling the samurai following her to do so as well. "He's too fast. Our next priority should be to help Fuu escape." She thinks for a brief moment. "Meet Hikaru and the rest at our camp, and tell them to head back as soon as everyone else gets there. I'll get Koshi and Hikaru back, and join you later."

With that, Umi heads back towards where she'd left a samurai to wait for Fuu, keeping an eye out for anyone, be they human or elf.

The Samurai shakes his head, oblivious to the spell. "I am Hideo Shikuwara! Your time has come!" he announces, rushing and slashing open Fuu's chest with a powerful blow.

"Perhaps another time, Shikuwara-san," Fuu grimaces through the pain as she pulls an invisibility potion from inside her gi and swiftly downs it.

Shikuwara tries to stab at Fuu again, but is presently stopped by two things; firstly, her sudden dissapearance, and secondly, an arrow that promptly lodges itself in his head.

<->

Umi manages to reach the samurai she left to wait for Fuu, who just fires a bow as she gets there. Umi can't see Fuu from her position.

"She was just there," whispers the samurai. "But she vanished."

<->

Hikaru makes it back to the camp, which the samurai quickly set about breaking..

Fuu blinks at the fallen Samurai, wishing she hadn't wasted her only invisibility potion now. Seeing a clear path, she leaps over the ditch and makes a beeline for where she had left her companions, running full out under the cover of invisibility.

Umi glances at the samurai. "Vanished? Was she taken away?"

Fuu easily makes it back to the lone samurai waiting for her, who hears her footsteps, as does Umi.

"Fuu-chan?" the samurai asks empty air, hand straying to his blade..

"Here," Fuu says, willing the invisibility effect to end. "I have aquirred the Matsu battle plans as well as some other documents that might prove useful. We should make haste to the capital at once so that Sakura-sama may recieve this information."

"It's that bad?" Umi asks, grimacing. "Alright." Looking around, she asks, "Where's Koshi?"

Fuu looks around worriedly, "He was with me until I entered the Champion's tent, and warned me when it was time to leave... I never saw him after I left, so I assumed he had already made his way out..."

Umi frowns. "Okay. Fuu, take Taishi back to our camp, and tell him what you found out.  Then," she says, turning towards the samurai, "please report to Master Toshi, and also tell him that we'll be making our way to Sakura-san post-haste." She pauses briefly. "I'll wait here for Koshi for a couple of minutes, before bringing up the rear."

Fuu nods, as she starts walk with Taishi, gesturing for him to wait a moment as she spontaneously casts Cure Moderate Wounds on herself, sacrificing the Remove Paralysis spell she had memorised in preperation for dealing with those wands...

That done, she tells Taishi of what occured. "I detected a powerful evil spellcaster within the Champion's tent after Otoshi had left. I suspect she is a part of whatever is instigating the Matsu against us. Luckily she was somewhat distracted by her previous activities with the Champion, and I was able to incapacitate her and steal the Matsu battle plans, as well as another strange document," Fuu makes a mental note to use a spell to read that document once they are safely away from the camp, "I also took a magical ring that she had on her person, and will see about getting its purpose identified when we reach the capital," Fuu shows him the ring so he can describe it to Toshi.

Taishi nods. "I'll make sure to repeat that, word for word, Fuu-san," he replies.

The two quickly reach the base camp, which has now been Packed Up.

<->

Waiting avails Umi of nothing. Apart from a few shouts from within the camp, there dosn't seem to be any activity.

Frowning once more and hoping that Koshi escaped by some other route, Umi stealthily makes her way back to their own camp.

Upon seeing Fuu arrive with Taishi, Hikaru rushes over to give the taller girl a hug. "I'm so glad you're safe! I was worried when I heard the shouting. I couldn't do much else after I set those trees on fire, so I came back here and started breaking down the camp-we're going to have to get moving fast, I think."

"I'm alright, Hikaru-chan," Fuu reassures the shorter elf, "But I am worried about Koshi-san..."

Shaking it off, Fuu grabs up her things, "And yes, we should depart quickly. Getting the information I discovered to Sakura-sama could save countless lives."

Taishi nods at the girls. "We had best depart too. Toshi will probably evacuate the villiage or some such, seeing as he can't view the plans."

Fuu takes out the battleplans from her gi, unfolding them and skimming over them to see how the Matsu attack plans deal with her home village.

Hikaru perks up as she remembers something. "Oh yeah! Tell Toshi-sensei that it looks like he was right; I was attacked by a group of monks just before the shouting started, and they were wearing Doji clan symbols. It's a small thing, but he'd probably want to know about it."

The plans are fairly detailed.

Apparently, tomorrow the Matsu were going to begin burning the forest something chronic. This was to continue for several days until the army reached Toshi's villiage, which would then be sacked.

From there, it was a war of movement and burning. Matsu raider parties would set fires in the middle of forests and towns while the reserve force steadily pressed on from outside the trees.

Eventually, so much of the High Forest would be burnt out that the elves would lose their otherwise decisive advantage; that of being able to shoot while hidden.

More disturbing was the fact that Doji forces were supposed to be on the way; parties of monks were supposedly already deep within Cephiro territory, but locations were not mentioned.

The plans also indicated, strangely enough, that the Doji were supposed to be used as a cleanup force; their army of monks was well suited to movement. The Matsu force was supposed to attract attention initially.

Most of the attacks would occur along the northen side of Cephiro, but the south was relatively untouched.

"Oh, my..." Fuu breathes, "It seems the attack is scheduled to begin tomorrow. We had best hurry!" she refolds the plans and puts them back into her gi. "Taishi-san, tell Master Toshi that the Matsu plan to burn as much of the forest as possible, while Doji monks are already hidden within the forest to act against us. No locations are mentioned, but at least knowing they are there will help somewhat."

Fuu refolds the plans and stashes them before turning around to see if Umi is coming.

Umi appears, a frustrated look on her face. "He didn't show up," she tells her comrades, grimacing. "And we have to leave, now."

Taishi nods. "We'd best leave immediatly. Come on, men!"

The samurai quickly slink back into the woods, bowing on their way out.

Fuu nods. "I am prepared to go," she says, having gotten her gear in order.

"Wait a moment, please," Umi calls out to the samurai. "Perhaps it'd be best if you split up into two-men teams. Two of those would head to warn Master Toshi, while the last one come with us to the capital, in case we run into more of those monks."

Taishi nods. "Kikuchi, Hayate, you go with them," he says. "You and you go that way, and we'll go this way," he continues, nodding to himself.

The elven samurai split up as spoken.

<->

The quickest route to the capitol of Cephiro is, of course, a straight line. However, the elves would probably want to stop for supplies along the way. So the best and fastest route would most likely be to trek through forest until they reach the town of Otsu, from which they could rest and get supplies, along with leaving a message for the Master of the town.

It would take about a day to reach Otsu, then another day of trekking through forest before the reached the edge. After that, it was about a four hour long walk across farmland to get to the capital.

The group of five travel through the forest towards the villiage of Otsu. The samurai are quiet, contemplating what the future holds for them, but they are also wary, trekking the entire journey with their bows strung and in their hand.

The elves come across the main trail to Otsu soon enough, but along the way, they come across a pair of elven corpses; one male, one female. They're both wearing simple clothes, and their bodies have been mutilated.

The male was apparently a swordsman, if not a samurai, but his sword is shattered on the ground nearby, and the sheath broke in two.

"Oh, my," Fuu covers her mouth as she nears the bodies, looking to see how long they have been dead, and whether they have been deliberately mutilated, or whether it looks like the work of a wild animal.

On inspection, it seems that the innocent elves were ripped apart, but there are no claw marks or the like to signify that it was a wild animal. It's more like they were ripped apart with somebodies bare hands.

Turning to her companions, Fuu frowns. "It would appear that the Doji clan monks have already begun to act against us. Though I cannot imagine what would possess them to mutilate the bodies in such a barbaric fashion."

"Could you give these two a decent burial?" Umi asks Kikuchi and Hayate. "We'll take care of warning the master of Otsu, and resupplying, waiting for you at the Master's residence."

The samurai nod, disgust and anger plain across their faces.

"You'd best hurry. Whoever did this was likely travelling to Otsu. Doji scum," Kikuchi says. "We'll join you as soon as we are able."

"Of course." Umi nods, glancing at her companions. "Hikaru, Fuu, let's go!"

Fuu nods grimly, readying her bow in case they run into trouble on the last stretch of road towards Otsu.

Hikaru shakes off her horror at the brutal scene, then turns to follow the other two elf maidens, a determined expression on her face.

At their quickened pace, the elves soon see a pillar of smoke rising from what should be Otsu..

Umi rushes towards the smoke, summoning her rapier.

Fuu follows Umi, her bow ready to deal with whomever is responsible for this atrocity, even as she starts considering how to deal with the wounded in the town.

As the trio of elves near the town, they are witness to a battle scene.

Various buildings are burning here and there, but nobody is thinking of putting out the fires right now; all the attention is at the town gates, where the few bushi alive are fighting it out with Doji monks.

Right in the thick of it is Master Jyoshin, who fights with a quarterstaff. He's bruised and bleeding, and his thick white hair is matted with blood. In short, he looks like hell.

Nonetheless, he keeps on trying to the utmost..

Seeing the outnumbered Elves in a mass brawl with the Doji monks, where her arrows are as likely to hurt friend as foe, Fuu casts Summon Monster II, calling forth a Celestial Eagle above the battle to swoop down and harry the Doji monks.

Umi charges one of Master Jyoshin's opponents with a loud battle cry.

Hikaru brings up the rear, following the other two as quickly as she can manage. She casts Shield as the group nears the melee in preparation for the fight ahead.

Umi skewers a Doji monk from the rear, almost grazing Master Jyoshin from the sheer power of the attack. She's instantly surrounded by elven bushi and Doji monks alike, and the fighting is extremely fierce.

Jyoshin himself dosn't note her presence; he's too busy spinning his staff back and forth to register her.

The celestial eagle swoops down and starts to harry the Doji monks, causing one already beaten and bruised monk to drop.

OOC: Umi's right in the thick of combat, you two are about 30 feet away.

Replacing her Daikyu on her back, Fuu casts Shield of Faith on herself as she nears the melee.

Hikaru draws a wand from her pack and gestures with it, summoning a Celestial Badger to assist Fuu's eagle in distracting the attacking monks.

Umi manages to poke a hole in another monks head, but then she recieves a jarring blow to the rear, which almost knocks her down. the celestial creatures pite ankles and peck eyes, disorientating the Doji force.

Jyoshi takes out another monk himself, his staff twirling to thwack another up the rear. Battle cries sound all around, as well as the screams of elves elsewhere in the villiage.

Her Shield of Faith in place, Fuu wades into the melee, punching out at the nearest monk as she makes her way towards Master Jyoshi.

Righting herself from the blow, Umi begins fighting more defensively, still attempting to aid Master Jyoshi.

Hikaru steps back and takes careful aim at one of the monks on the edge of the combat before casting Fire Shuriken at him.

Hikaru's shuriken slam into the nearest Doji monk, who screams and drops to the ground. Fuu's punch is unfortunately blocked by her target, who retaliates with a fierce backkick that Fuu can easily deflect.

Meanwhile, Umi impales yet another monk, her rapier now dripping with blood and brain.

The odds are countable, now, there's exactly 9 monks and 12 elves left in the fight.

Suddenly, a high-pitched whistle is heard, and the monks break up from the fight and spread out, rushing from the villiage and away from the villiage.

But still the sounds of elfin screams are heard from within the burning villiage..

As the monks break off, Fuu unslings her bow and swiftly nocks an arrow, shooting it at the nearest fleeing monk's back.

Normally she might frown on using tactics such as these, but the Doji had proven themselves to be dishonourable, and undeserving of courtesy.

Hikaru quickly readies her shortbow and lets an arrow fly towards one of the retreating monks.

Umi flicks her rapier, trying to clear it of the gunk. Turning towards the head elf, she asks, "How many more are attacking the village, Master Jyoshi?"

Fuu misses by a long shot, her arrow slamming into the ground just in front of Hikaru, giving her a start. Despite that, Hikaru's shot brings down a monk, getting him soundly through the chest.

<->

"Not many," replies Jyoshi, leaning on his staff. "They're waving around torches and setting fire to anything they can. Go, quickly! All of you!" he continues, waving his hand at the remaining bushi. "Save what's left!"

The bushi scatter..

Fuu's facial muscles twitch in annoyance as she reaches for her quiver and nocks another arrow, hoping for better luck as she shoots another Doji monk.

Hikaru hops sideways a few inches as Fuu's arrow nearly impales her foot. After shooting the brown-haired elf a reproachful glance, she takes aim and looses another arrow at one of the monks.

"We came too late," Umi says angrily. "The Matsu have allied themselves with the Doji, and plan on invading us and destroying everything. We were just on our way to report to the capital and Sakura-san."

As she speaks, Umi looks over the older elf for wounds.

Jyoshi is battered, bruised, has several broken bones, and a few cuts here and there.

None of the wounds look serious by themselves, but when put together, you get someone who looks like they just walked through a river of blood then fell down a flight of 50ft stairs.

"I'll be fine," he says. "Go with the bushi! I don't know how many monks there are in the villiage. And try and take one prisoner," he snarls. "I'll find out just why the Doji aid the Matsu."

<->

Fuu's arrow slams into the neck of a fleeing monk, while Hikaru barely misses her own toe when she trips over her feet.

Umi nods. Calling out, "Fuu, please help Master Jyoshi!" she rushes into the village, looking for Doji monks or elves in need of assistance.

Hikaru takes a deep breath to steady herself, then fires again at the distant backs of the monks.

Hikaru misses the monk she was aiming at, her arrow flying wide. Misjudging by even a small amount can ruin a shot at this range.

Meanwhile, Umi comes across a pair of Elves closing in on a lone monk..

Hikaru shakes her head in disgust at having missed the shot. She slings the bow on her back, then runs over to Fuu to see if she needs any assistance in taking care of Master Jyoshi.

Remembering Jyoshi's words and the importance of her mission, Umi flanks the monk, tryng to remain out of his sight for as long as possible while he's focused on the two bushi, and strikes at his legs.

Before Umi can reach the monk, however, the Bushi slash down on him with their swords-

-and promptly crumple to the ground, victim to both fists of the monk. Umi can now recognize him as the monk from earlier; the ponytailed monk who vanished. Amazingly, he dosn't even look puffed, as one would think after travelling nonstop to the villiage and then getting straight into a fight.

"Well, well, well," he murmers, eyes turning to Umi. "Let's see how you fare without your allies backing you up.."

He relaxes into a martial stance..

Umi abandons her earlier plan, and eases herself into a defensive stance, opting to fight that way. "Speaking of allies," she says in a casual tone of voice, "are you sure you're up for a fight without hiding behind a horde of Matsu samurai?"

The monk just smirks, and slings a trio of shuriken at Umi! They fly past her guard and smack into her chest through her armour, stinging like wasps and biting like ants.

Angry, Umi springs into action, attacking the monk with her rapier.

The ponytailed monk rushes forward himself, and the two warriors clash.

He ducks under Umi's stab and tries to sweep her feet out from under her, but she nimbly jumps over it, finishing just in time to block his second blow on her dastana..

Umi feints a strike at his head, redirecting her rapier at the last possible moment to try and run it through the monk's torso.

The monk dosn't see the feint, but Umi dosn't see his foot as it slams her in the midsection, ruining an otherwise perfect shot and turning it into a light graze.

Umi makes a wild slash at the monk's face, backing away.

The tip of Umi's rapier slashes across the monks face, causing him to bring his arm up to stem the flow of blood.

"You.. elf bitch!" he yells, rushing forward..

Umi retreats from her opponent, trying to keep him at bay with her sword, and calling her friends' names loudly.

"What's wrong?" the monk smirks. "Calling for your friends to help you?"

His arms start moving in delicate patterns, trails of light wisping from his fingertips..

Gritting her teeth instead of replying, Umi slashes her rapier at the monk's arms.

As the monks flee beyond her range, Fuu follows Umi's orders, heading over to Master Jyoshi and spontaneously casting Cure Moderate Wounds on the older elf, sacrificing the Sound Burst spell she had prepared.

Hearing Umi calling for her and Hikaru, Fuu doesn't stick around long, quickly running in the direction the yells came from.

Hikaru stands by Fuu as she assists the injured Master Jyoshi, but as she hears Umi's cry she darts away to help as quickly as she can.

Umi's slash cuts open a deep trail of blood across the monks arm, handily disrupting his spell in the process.

Hikaru and Fuu arrive to see that Umi looks much like Master Jyoshin just did; severly roughed up, with several bruises and some shuriken stuck in her chest.

The monk glances over at the newcomers, and an angry growl rushes from his mouth.

He rushes off before anyone can react, dissapearing behind a building..

"It was the same one," Umi says, breathing heavily. "The same monk that attacked your group, Hikaru."

Fuu briefly considers pursuing the monk, but seeing Umi's state puts paid to that idea. Rushing over to her friend, she spontaneously casts Cure Moderate Wounds, sacrificng her prepared Wind Wall spell. "He looks to be a formidable opponent," she says worriedly after healing the blue haired elfmaid.

A wash of healing energy spills over Umi, healing her wounds somewhat. She's still battered and bruised to a fair extent, but she'll be ok.

OOC: 11 HP healed, for reference.

"You shouldn't have tried to fight him by yourself, Umi-chan. You're lucky you weren't hurt any worse than that-call us to help next time!"

Hikaru glances over in the direction the monk ran off. "I wonder who he is, though, to have gotten here so fast."

"I wasn't alone," Umi says, shaking her head sadly. "Not at first. He killed the two bushi before I could do anything, and then, well, I was just too angry to think." She takes the shuriken out of her armor one by one, wincing each time. "I just hope I gave him as good as I got."

Recalling Fuu's question, she nods at the brunette. "All that and more. He seemed to be a caster as well, in addition to his skills in hand-to-hand."

Fuu nods, "We should be careful, there are still a number of Doji monks within the town, and I suspect we haven't seen the last of our friend. We have to drive off the remaining monks, but I think it would be best to stay together." Taking in Umi's still rather bedraggled condition, the fair haired elf looks concerned, "Do you need me to cast another healing spell on you before we continue?"

"I'm good to go," Umi replies. "Hell, he only got this close because I got careless and tried to capture him, first." Looking at her two friends, she says, "Between us three, though, we should be able to subdue any Doji monk, so that Master Jyoshi will interrogate him afterwards."

"Yes," Fuu agrees, stowing her Daikyu and looking/listening to find out where the action is, now.

Hikaru has a sad expression. "I wish I could heal you the way Fuu-chan does, but hopefully this will help if we run into any other monks." She places a hand on Umi's shoulder, casting Cat's Grace as she does so.

Umi thanks Hikaru, smiling, and then joins Fuu in trying to locate any ongoing fights in the area.

It's not hard to find a fight in the villiages present state; the trio soon located a pair of Doji monks looming over a young elfgirl and a pair of even younger apparent siblings of hers. Their father is lying in front of them, blood trickling from his face. He looks quite dead.

The children are right outside a burning building; it looks as if the monks are trying to force them inside.

Umi breaks into a run, charging at the monks and trying to get between them and the young elves, if possible.

The tip of Umi's rapier cuts deep, opening a vicious cut over one of the monk's chest. He does not fall, but the monks are too stunned to react.

The elven children are too frightened to run, however.

Hikaru runs off to the side of the combat. As soon as she comes close enough, she cast Fiery Eyes and glares at the two monks, attempting to set their robes ablaze.

OOC: Trying to flank them before I set their clothes on fire.

Not wasting any time, Fuu charges the Monks, letting Umi take one, while she swings a fist at the other, trying to knock him out.

Umi's blow takes out the monk, who drops to the ground, unconcious.

Meanwhile, Hikaru's burst of fire from her eyes does indeed set fire to the other monks robes. With a pained shout, he drops to the ground and rolls around foolishly, making him easy prey for Umi's deadly blade..

The other fights around the area appear to have stopped, and some of the villiagers are coming out from whatever hiding spots they managed to find, looking about their mostly scorched villiage like lost sheep..

Umi ties up the unconscious monk and gags him, before looking around for Master Jyoshi.

Master Jyoshi can be found barking commands to the few unscathed elves about forming a bucket brigade to put out the fires. He seems to have the survivors well under control.

The air is thick with the stench of blood.

Umi grabs her prisoner, and delivers him to Master Jyoshi. "What can I do to help?" she asks him, once there is a pause in his commands to the other elves.

"You can talk to me," replies Jyoshi, wearily. "What was it you said about the Matsu and the Doji earlier? I know nothing about the reason for this attack."

"The Matsu are marching to war against us, probably as we speak," Fuu tells the Master, "They are seeking to burn down the forest, while Doji monks already hidden within the forest strike out at us... though I never expected them to mount a full scale attack like this..."

Reaching into her gi, she pulls out the Matsu battleplans and relates the details to Jyoshi, before concluding, "It is imperative that we deliver these plans to Sakura-sama at the capital as soon as we can." She sighs sadly, "I wish we could stay and help with the damage your village has suffered, but attacks like this are probably occuring all over Cephiro, and we cannot afford to delay in meeting with Sakura-sama."

"We could spare a few moments to find out whether the monk we captured knows more," Umi counters her friend. "You said that you had ways to make him talk, Master Jyoshi?"

"The Matsu are marching to war?" replies Jyoshi, shocked. "With Doji raiding parties going ahead?"

He looks down at the plans, and shakes his head. "We may not have proven victorious here were it not for your intervention. The attack was carefully planned; many of them had used some magic to transform their bodies into those of elves. That was why the burning had spread throughout the entire villiage.

But as for this prisoner.. well, my wife makes Truth Potions in her spare time, for settling disputes and crimes.. we'll force him to swallow one of them, and then make him talk.."

"Would it take long to make the preparations, Master Jyoshi?" Umi asks.

"As long as it takes him to wake up," replies Jyoshi. "Drag him back to my house, it's one of the few untouched by the flames."

He turns and walks into a nearby, unscorched house..

Umi shrugs, and drags the captured monk along, resisting the urge to kick it along the way.

While the elves drag off the body, they see the samurai they left behind rush into the villiage, and look around in amazement.

There's blood on their armour, and they're breathing heavily.

"Umi-sama!" one of them yells, rushing up to her. "We ran into some Doji monks after we had dug the graves. I apologize, they delayed us for some time."

Umi nods. "It's good to see you make it here. Do you need any medical treatment?"

"No, we're fine," the samurai says. "Now I see what the monks were fleeing from.."

They fall in step behind Umi, murmuring between themselves..

"Did you see Scarface?" Umi asks the two samurai. "He got away too."

Hikaru remains behind with the three children, trying to comfort them after the fight's conclusion.  Once she has managed to calm them down a bit, she looks around for someone willing to take care of them before going to look for Umi.

Fuu follows Umi and Jyoshi, hoping they can get some decent information from the Monk without tarrying overlong.

"No, Umi-sama," replies one of the samurai, respectfully. "We only saw the monks we dealt with."

Hikaru manages to find another elf to look after the children. She's also informed that the unfortunate elves are now orphens..

Inside Master Jyoshi's small house, the trio see that he lives a fairly spartan existence. Two futon are against the wall, a small cabinet and cooking area are to the otherside. A warddrobe and a bookshelf complete the room; there are seemingly no anemities.

The man himself is going through the cabinet, quickly producing a vial of liquid.

"The truth potion," he says. "Unfortunately, it does not force the drinker to speak when asked, but there are ways around that.

Are there any questions you wish to ask? After all, you have seen more of these monks than I have, perhaps it would be better if you asked the questions."

"It'd be helpful if he could tell us where the other Doji monks are, since the battleplans we took had no details on that," Fuu suggests, before sighing, "Of course, they are probably already moving, but it will give us some idea."

"I see. Well, best get to it, then."

After quickly checking to make sure the arms and legs of the monk are bound and tied, Jyoshi forces open his lips, holds his nose, and pours the Truth Potion down it.

Coughing and sputtering, the monk awakes. His initial attempts to get free are subdued by Jyoshi's staff jabbing him between the ribs.

"Keh! You elven sc- gyahh!"

Jyoshi removes his staff from the monks head, glaring down at him. "Elven scum? And what angers the Doji so?" he barks back. "What sort of scum attacks a peacable land? What sort of scum attacks innocents? The Doji do! Compare us not to you, disgusting creature," he finishes, thwacking the monk with his staff all the while.

Instead of replying with angry words, the monk remains silent.

"Umi-san, Hikaru-san, Fuu-san, ask him what needs to be asked," says Jyoshi. "If he fails to reply, perhaps some stimulation will be in order," he continues, glaring down at the monk, who, in spite of all this, is grinning like a madman.

"Where are your comrades?" Umi asks the monk bluntly.

"All throughout Cephrio," replies the Monk, grinning. "You'll never find them all in time."

"Humor me," Umi continues, "and tell us the details. If we can't get there in time anyway, why bother hiding them?"

"Why do you think? Surprise is the best weapon in any fight," replies the monk. "So you know. So what? You can hardly warn everyone.."

One of the samurai is bristling with anger, hand unconciously groping his sword hilt..

Umi holds out a hand in front of the angry samurai, and shakes her head slightly. Then, she smirks at the monk. "Okay, how about if I ask you really nicely?" She takes out her rapier, and makes a shallow cut across the monk's cheek with its tip.

The monk flinches slightly. "There's a band for every villiage," he says. "We'll burn them all and the Matsu will finish off what's left behind."

Hikaru's eyes harden as Umi cuts the monk's face.

'This may be necessary, but I don't have to like it,' she thinks as she turns away.

"Some of you are disguising yourself as elves," she states. "How many in each band are capable of that?"

The monk spits in Umi's face. "Kill me already," he says, boldly.

She wipes the spittle away with her left sleeve. "All in good time." She pauses, glaring at him. "It's not a question of when, but of how. Now, answer me!" Umi swipes her rapier at the monk's leg, leaving a gash in it, while careful to give all of his bonds a wide berth.

The monk inhales sharply as the blood starts spilling from his leg. "All," he replies in a wheezing voice.

"There was a monk I faced twice already," Umi says, describing him from memory. "Who is he?"

The monk starts laughing again. "Shigen. Shigen Oniko."

"How many of your clan participating in these raids are as strong as he is?" Umi inquires.

"None," replies the monk, smirking. "But you should be praying to your gods on bended knee."

Umi snorts. "I wasn't the one running away from both our encounters." Her eyes narrow. "Now, I want to hear about your clan's spellcasting abilities. What are the monks attacking our towns capable of?"

"Killing elves," replies the monk, sarcastically. "How many graves will be dug tonight? Or how big will the cremating fire be?"

"You may be under the false assumption that only the method of your death has been left undetermined, monk," Umi tells him coldly. "But you should also think on the amount of time it will take you to leave this Earth."

Hikaru's voice comes from behind Umi. "Why? Why are you doing this?"

"I'm dying anyway, elven bitch. What does the method matter? You're no master of torture," shoots back the Monk.

Jyoshi stands back, watching with a critical eye..

"You could still be healed. Again and again." Umi smirks again. "Tell me about your fellow monks' spellcasting abilities."

"No," replies the monk, smirking.

"This will have to do, Master Jyoshi," Umi tells the older elf, not taking her eyes off the monk. "And we should return to our main mission. Do you need this murderer alive for a bit longer?"

"I don't need him for anything," replies Jyoshi, with disgust. "Though I am interested to know why the Doji are so violent towards us.."

The monk smirks. "You elves.. fools, all."

"I suppose the rumors of the Matsu subverting the Doji Champion with magic and using the monks for their own revenge on us were true after all, Master Jyoshi," Umi says thoughtfully.

Jyoshi ponders this. "I.. see, Umi-san."

However, the monks eyes narrow. "How did you find that out?" he asks, too quickly.

Masking her distaste for Umi's method of interrogation, Fuu steps forward. "We already know for a fact that the Matsu are being manipulated themselves, though if they are subverting the Doji, it adds a further layer of complexity to this skein." She then turns to the monk and gives a thin-lipped smile, "There isn't much that can remain hidden for long when one is properly motivated to find answers. The information we discovered in Otoshi-san's tent proved most... illuminating."

"The Matsu? Subvert the Doji?" The monk sniggers. "Believe what you will."

"Is there a reason why cowardly Doji monks wouldn't sell their souls to the Matsu?" Umi asks in a curious tone of voice. "Surely, you don't expect us to believe that you are the ones doing the subverting!" She snorts in derision.

The monk smirks. "Maybe I should answer you. But I fear it's time for me to depart."

His mouth clamps shut, and a look of intense concentration comes over his face..

Fuu leans forward and slaps the Monk to disrupt his concentration.

Umi runs the monk's throat through with her rapier as soon as she sees him concentrating.

Just as Umi stabs the monk, there's a sickening sound from his mouth, which soon falls open, revealing that he bit his tounge in half.

Jyoshi sighs. "I fear he is leading us into a trap. He could have killed himself at any time, if that was his intent."

"Perhaps he wanted to boast, first," Umi muses. "And we do have information from other sources that someone else, probably the Doji, were influencing the Matsu."

She shakes her head, and makes her rapier disappear into her glove. "No matter. Master Jyoshi, we must hurry on to the capital and meet with Sakura-san. Would you be able to spare a few people to inform the nearby villages, while the rest of you retreat?"

"If you have any horses to spare," Fuu puts in, "it would help us out tremendously."

"Horses.. yes, I believe so. If the stables have not been burned, anyway. They're near the opposite gate," Jyoshi replies. "As for sending messages to the other villiages, that will be arranged shortly.

Be wary of what this man said. I do not know how he may have twisted the truth, but assume nothing," he finishes.

"He hardly gave us anything concrete enough to lead us on a path, wrong or otherwise," Fuu says, before bowing, "We thank you for letting us use the horses, and I hope when we next met it will be under better circumstances."

With that, the green-clad elf turns and exits the building, heading towards the stables Jyoshi indicated.

Umi nods at the older elf. "Of course, Master Jyoshi. In that case, we'll go and search for five horses, to take us to the capital." She turns to look at the pair of samurai that follows them. "Are you ready to leave?"

"Yes, Umi-sama," reply the samurai, exiting. "If they can disguise themselves as any elf, they may have already infiltrated the capital," one says. "Perhaps we should be wary."

"Alright. Hikaru, can you go with them and secure our horses?" she asks of her pink-headed friend. "I'll join you in a moment."

Then, she turns towards Master Jyoshi. "Excuse me, but do you have any idea how the monks are disguising themselves as elves? And what could be done to find out their true nature, or snap them out of their disguise?"

Jyoshi shrugs. "I cannot say. I feel it must be magic; I know that I could pick out most any crude disguise. But to train an entire army of monks in magic? No, there must be another source.

Regardless, a spell used to detect magic or true forms or some such may reveal them. Sakura may have an item that will allow simpler detection for all I know, she has many odd devices from her youth.."

Umi nods again. "That's just one more thing we must discuss with Sakura-san, then. Thank you, Master Jyoshi." She bows to him, and walks out after her friends.

The stables are thankfully intact, and five horses are easy to secure. A short time later, the five elves are riding hard towards the capital..

The Capital..

It's a big place. Surrounded by a solid stone wall and a moat, it's more a fort. The front gate is kept open, but all travellers in and out must state their business.

And so, the party of elves soon reach the gate. The guards faces light up as they recognize Umi, Fuu, and Hikaru.

"Good day, ladies. What brings you here this fine day?"

Hikaru nods to the guard. "We're here to see Sakura-sama. Can you direct us to her?"

"She's in the castle," replies the guard, pointing to the far end of the city towards the place itself. "Do you want your horses stabled before you see her?"

"I suppose we should take care of that. Where are the stables?" She swiftly dismounts, taking her horse's reins in hand.

"Just over there," replies the guard, indicating a building around the corner. "Good to see you, Hikaru-san. Let her pass!" he calls out to his fellow guards, who nod back.

Hikaru smiles and nods to the guard before she leads the group over to the stables to have their horses cared for.

A short while later, the horses have been dealt with, and the party are in the midst of the Capital.

Most of the buildings, unlike other towns of elven make, are made of stone with wood as a supplement, as opposed to just wood or huts build in trees. The city is much more like a human city than an elven town, and one notices several humans wandering around, from samurai to merchants. Many master human craftsmen aided the elves in the construction of the captial, with great emphasis placed on the castle.

The city itself is bustling, completely oblivious to the events taking place outside. There is a large marketplace where goods of all kinds are bought and sold, along with many taverns, inns, and restraunts. Several gaijin men are flaunting their wears, including straight-edged broadswords, rapiers similar to the one Umi uses, the ever-popular ticking clock, art, clothes, and many other things. More typical Japanian goods are prevaleant throughout the marketplace.

Like any major city, the Capital of Cephiro has it's fair share of street muggers, pickpockets, murderers, and shifty merchants. The town guard is ever watchful against this sort of thing, and tends to follow up complaints extrodinarily quickly.

It's about midday, and things are going strong. The Castle looms over the city, the courtyard open to the public.

Resisting the lure of sight-seeing, Fuu leads the party straight to the castle.

The courtyard of the castle is expansive, and filled with wonders of elven nature-working. Carefully planted gardens that almost look unreal aboud, and even the path into the castle is but a pleasent lawn.

Upon reaching the main door into the castle, the elven guards look at the party. "What's your business here?" they ask, a little more harshly than the elves at the gate.

"I am Fuu Phoenixwind, and these are my companions; Umi Dragonblossom and Hikaru Lionheart," Fuu introduces them, her expression grim, "We are here to see Sakura-sama with urgent news regarding the combined Matsu and Doji attack on Cephiro."

"Is that so?" says the guard. "I would love to invite you in, but the worthy is not present."

Fuu frowns slightly. "Well, where is Sakura-sama? It is absolutely imperative that we get this information to her at once."

The guard indicates the sea. "Sakura-sama is on a cruise with a gaijin diplomat," he says. "I believe she will be gone until tomorrow, noon."

Fuu swears in a most unladylike manner, before swiftly composing herself. "The timing is most unfortunate. Very well, with Sakura-sama indisposed, we shall have to take this information to Okina-dono, and hope he can make good use of it until she returns."

"I see. Wait a moment," the guard says, dissapearing inside the castle.

A short while later, he reemerges. "Follow me," he says, leading you inside.

The party is brought into the castle, which is, like the courtyard, full of life where human architects would simply put stone and mortar. You are soon brought to an audience chamber, where a fairly old elf is standing, waiting for you. He has long white hair, but piercing blue eyes. Unlike Master Jyoshi and Master Toshi, his physical form is not as fit and well-trained as theirs, but his wit remains just as sharp.

"The Matsu and the Doji are coming to fight us, you say," he says, not bothering with formailities. "How, why, and when?"

Reaching into her gi, Fuu retrieves the Matsu battleplans. "These are their plans which we aquierred from Otoshi-san's tent in their warcamp just outside of Cephiro," she says, handing them over to Okina. "We also retrieved a document in a strange language," she takes out the document, "If you give me a moment, I will attempt to translate it." She then casts Comprehend Languages and reads it.

The document reads as follows;

"Usagi, the raiding parties are in place. Shigen has been assigned to test the three potential candidates. We will begin in three days. Induce Otoshi to proceed in five days.

Make sure to kill the head of each villiage. They are unsuitable and may prove a serious threat if left alive.

Make sure Otoshi burns as much as possible. Upon reaching the capital, further correspondance will be entered into.

The plan is going well.

                                                                   A."

Meanwhile, Okina peers over the battle plans, growing more concerned as he reads them..

Fuu faithfully repeats the contents of the document to Okina, before adding, "I overheard the Matsu samurai referring to Usagi as one of the geisha in their camp, and I suspect she is the one I found within Otoshi's tent. She appeared to be a spellcaster of some power, but I caught her by surprise."

She reaches into her pocket and produces the magic ring she found, "She was wearing this, though I cannot fathom it's purpose, it is definitely magical."

Hikaru looks thoughtful. "Shigen... didn't the Doji we caught say that was the name of the guy with the ponytail that Umi and I have fought?"

Umi nods. "And while he could've been lying about a lot of things, I think that part of the monk's words was true. Also," she says, turning towards Okina, "Master Jyoshi told us that some of the Doji monks were disguised as elves, and infiltrated the town, which helped their attack greatly. If they are everywhere, and even in the capital, just waiting for their sign...."

"They will have us in a complete rout," Okina says, gravely. "But why would they attack us so? What do they hope to gain? If these plans are true, then there will be no worthwhile land left to occupy. I cannot believe the Matsu are so vengeful, and judging by that foriegn message, the Doji are attempting to manipulate them.

Either way, preperations must be made. If they really are laying waste to villiages right and left, refugees will begin to trickle in in a few days. Not to mention preparing the town for a battle and trying to discover as many of these.. monks before they strike.

And what could they mean by possible candidates? And why do the Doji hate us? Can you answer any of these questions?"

"The Doji monk we interrogated was racist scum, so the reason for their hate could be simple," Umi says, scowling. "And the only ones this Shigen 'tested' were, well, us three. Though the number could be a coincidence, of course."

She is quiet for a moment, before adding, "We've sent word to our own home town, and asked Master Jyoshi to inform the nearby villages. The rest of our towns, however, are completely unaware of the threat, Okina-san."

"If the Doji launched provincewide attacks simultaneously, it is already too late," replies Okina, scowling. "I must send word to Jyoshi to evacuate back to here.

But judging by their strategy, that is exactly what they are trying to force us into doing. If the Matsu have appeared with a fully-fledged army, supported by Doji monks, we may even have to flee to the ocean. I pray that will not occur."

He starts pacing. "If you sent word to your own villiage, Toshi would likely have evacutated by now. That is a relief, though I fear for all the other masters. If Toshi and Jyoshi are the only survivors... I don't need to tell you that a single master is worth a hundred men.

And if the Doji have infiltrated the city as it is, we are at their mercy. It is very unsettling.

Do you have any idea how long the Matsu will take to get here?"

"According to their plans, the Matsu were to commence their attack three days ago. If they haven't changed their timetable, I expect they will reach the capital within five days," Fuu reports grimly.

"Perhaps. But seeing that you have found their plans, they might have accelerated their march on the capital," replies Okina. "As it stands, we must begin preperations for refugees, Doji infiltrators or not. If you three would help, I would be-"

At this point, a pair of samurai walk in, helping a wounded elf stagger inside the audience chamber.

"Okina..dono.. Sakura's ship. Most of the sailors were.. Katsu bushi in disguise."

"Katsu bushi? How? Why? The Katsu are hundreds of miles away!" exclaims Okina, astonished.

"They let me go.." the elf continues, perhaps unhearing what Okina was saying. "They're holding her hostage, but they havn't made any demands.. gah!"

The elf suddenly starts coughing up blood..

Fuu rushes over to the wounded Elf, spontaneously casting Cure Light Wounds on him by sacrificing her Shield of Faith spell.

The elf coughs and sputters a bit, but regains his voice.

"The Katsu are lead by a Doji monk," he says. "Long hair. Extremely skilled. We didn't have a chance.

Now the ship is floating. They've made no effort to move it, it's like they're waiting for something.."

"Or someone," Umi finishes, looking at her friends. "Well, we did come here to meet with Sakura-san. Now, how do we get to that ship?"

"I'll accompany you to the docks and make them lend you a boat," says Okina. "Or perhaps the Gaijin will allow us to borrow one of theirs, seeing as their minister was also on board."

Fuu holds up a hand as she speaks, "Rather than put ourselves at their mercy by charging in in full view, it may be more advantageous to wait until nightfall before making a more covert approach to the ship," she suggests.

"It depends on what you plan on doing when we get there, I guess," Umi tells Fuu. "If you're thinking of infiltrating the ship over the cover of darkness and rescuing Sakura-san, then I suspect that monk, Shigen, won't fall for it." She thinks for a moment. "Unless you want to draw him away from the Katsu to attempt and negotiate, while a crew of warriors supplied by Okina-san uses the darkness and this distraction to get onboard the ship?"

"I was actually planning on us three attempting a daring rescue," Fuu admits ruefully, "Taking along a larger force has a much greater risk of the hostages being killed..."

Fuu looks thoughtful for a moment, before shaking her head, "If an infiltration is unlikely to succeed, what do you suggest? That we attempt to negotiate in good faith?"

"I believe that Scarface wants something. And he is obviously waiting for someone to hear what that something is." Umi shrugs helplessly. "If you think our chances of going either through or around him at night and rescuing Sakura-san from all the Katsu men are better, I'll do tha in a flash."

Hikaru speaks up quietly. "It seems like a trap to me. Why do this now, right as we arrive here? And if they really wanted to disorganize us, why wait to kill Sakura-sama?"

She shakes her head. "One thing is bothering me. How does this Shigen know where we're going? He ran right into me back at the Matsu camp, Umi ran into him again at Otsu. Now he's here, or fairly close to here."

"Perhaps one of our scouts was captured and interrogated by the enemy," Umi says, frowning. "They would know the instructions we received from Master Toshi, which are to report to Sakura-san, as well as which route we would likely take to get to the capital."

"I cannot say how he knew to meet us at the Matsu camp - it could have been happenstance, but as for the rest, it would be fairly easy to deduce we would head straight for the capital with the information we gained. Or as Umi said, they could have gotten the information from capturing one of our men. We still don't know what happened to Koshi-san," Fuu says to Hikaru, "And you are right, there is nothing for them to gain by keeping Sakura-sama alive, unless they wish to use her as bait for someone else. Or three someone elses..."

Hikaru sighs. "If that is the case, then do we give him what he wants or not? If the three he's 'testing' are the three of us, what do we do if we go to meet with him?"

Umi blinks. "We find out what he wants in exchange for returning Sakura-san, of course. And maybe, what is the point in the Doji attack on our lands."

Hikaru sighs. "I don't want to go at all, but it looks like we'll have to. Umi, your plan sounds like the best idea; we act as a distraction for Shigen while another group frees Sakura-sama."

"So what is the plan? We wait until nightfall, before making an open approach while another group attempts to inflitrate the boat and secure the hostages? In that case, we had better provide a very effective distraction if we don't want to risk their lives," Fuu says worriedly, before firming her expression, "Nonetheless, it does seem like our best chance of getting everyone out of this alive."

"It would also be best," Umi says, nodding to herself, "if the second group is tested after being chosen, to see that they are indeed who they are supposed to be, and be able to make a distinction between the real Sakura-san, and a decoy the Doji and Katsu might have onboard, if they anticipated a rescue attempt."

Finished, Umi turns towards the old elf. "Okina-san, with your permission, we would like to execute that plan."

"I fear we may be playing right into his hands.. if it is you three he wants, perhaps you should remain here," says Okina. "The plan is sound, but there is a possibility he already knows everything you are going to do."

His eyes sweep over the party of elves. "There is always the possibility that a traitor is in your midst."

"What else can we do, though? If they want us to come, they will likely kill Sakura-sama if we don't go. And if they're that determined to meet us, what will they do the next time?" Hikaru sighs.

"And I can't believe that any of us would be a traitor, Okina-san! I trust my friends with my life, and they put the same trust in me."

"That's what scares me, Hikaru-chan," replies Okina. "What if one of you has been killed and then replaced, perhaps by one that has studied you for a long time?"

"I see no reason why this couldn't be checked right away," Umi says, moving to stand by the exit. "Okina-san, do you have any spell or device which could be used in this room to show us whether there is an impostor amongst us?"

Okina thinks for a moment.

"I believe the Shugenja have a pair of wands that dispel all magic from a person," he says. "If these people are using magic to transform, that may be best. If they are using more mundane means, well, a more direct approach would work just as well."

"I'll make sure no one attempts to leave before getting tested, then," she says, bowing.

"Of coures. I'll have the Shugenja find it right away- and I'll put together a team of bushi to assist you," replies Okina. "That will take time, naturally, but we have to wait until dark as it is.."

"While we are here, Okina-dono," Fuu says, getting the older elf's attention, "Do you perhaps have anyone who could discern the purpose of this ring I found?" she agains shows him the ring she took from 'Usagi'. "It is obviously magical, but I do not know what it does.

"Also, if I can get access to a scrying dish or similar device, I could try and divine something about the situation aboard the ship. My skills may not be as good as Toshi-sama's, but I do have some ability."

"I'll see if the Shugenja can work anything out," Okina says. "If there is anyone to trust, it is them. As for a scrying bowl, yes, we do have one. If you'll excuse me, I'll see what I can do.."

Okina leaves. A short while later, he comes back, armed with a small pouch and a crystal ball.

"The shugenja want the ball back," he says. "And they will require time to work out the ring. I have some gold for you, and you are welcome to stay in the castle or go into the city, if you wish."

Hikaru nods. "I could stand to restock some of my spell components, actually. I'll go out to take care of that, then come back to see how you're doing, Fuu-chan."

Umi accepts the money from Okina, and bows again. "I'll come with Hikaru and get something for Ami, I guess. We'll be back before you notice, Fuu."

Concentrating on the crystal ball, Fuu tries to divine the situation aboard the ship where both Shigen and Sakura are...

OOC: I have no clue how Scrying works, so sorry if my description sucks...

Fuu peers into the murky depths of the crystal ball, searching out her clan Champion and her captors..

She sees.. a boat. A fairly large boat, which isn't moving. She can see broken wood and dried blood across the deck.. there was a fight here. There is no wind, and the boat appears deserted. The sails are a tattered mess..

The colours of the ball shift, and change..

The ship brig is seen, several elves kept in it, huddling and naked. Some have long, vicious cuts drawn in intricate diagrams. They've clearly been through torture. They are in a wretched state, whimpering and crying. If they can be saved, it dosn't look like they'll amount to much.

Several humans are also kept in a seperate cell, but unlike the elves, they are fully clothed and look only beaten, not mutilated.

In a final, even more seperate cell lies Sakura herself, long black hair in a state of unkemptness. She is the only elf to be wearing anything, but she dosn't look much better than them. Bruises mark her face, but grim determination is her expression. Unlike the other elves, she has not broken yet...

<->

Meanwhile, Umi and Hikaru return to the marketplace. Apart from the usual odds and ends being sold, they also see a strange-looking merchant in a black tent, a bare table in front of him. He's wearing red robes and a red mask, but dosn't seem to be getting much business.

Elsewhere, trinkets and the like are being sold allover, along with more utility-based items.

OOC: You can basically get anything from the PHB for it's listed price; if you want something special, just look for it. >_>

Umi heads towards the strange merchant, hoping he would have something cool.

Fuu reports her findings to Okina, before settling in to wait for her friends to return.

As Umi and Hikaru approach the man, they see his eyes glint behind the mask.

"Welcome, ladies! Welcome to the Emporium of the Masked Mage!" He gestures to the empty expanse of his little shop, which is completely bare of anything that could be sold, except the desk he sits behind, the clothes he wears, and maybe the tent itself.

"As you can see, we are somewhat understocked at the moment. However, I can promise you that there are many items I can buy, manufacture, or otherwise acquire for your benefit! A middleman, am I, with contacts from here to cold Saldora, and to the land of Tsoh, which is said to be ruled by a fire dragon who lights the underground furnace each day that keeps the ocean in that place at boiling point. Foodstuffs, books, clothing, weapons, I can acquire all!"

He peers down at you.

"Though you seem to be the type who may be less interested in mere trinkets as in things of utility. Perhaps I can oblige you! If there is something you need, I am sure I can acquire it, provided you have the necessary funding to do so."

Okina's face turns grave.

"Horrendous! I already know that they hate us greatly, but it becomes more shocking every time," he says. "I am torn, Fuu-san. Sakura has not been gone longer than her expected trip, so none of the public will see anything amiss.

If I were to give a public address on the matter.. I fear it may do more harm than good. The people will begin to distrust each other, and while that may catch out a few of these imposters, I fear for what it may do to our society in the long term.

On the other hand, not saying anything could be just as bad.

At any rate, we must get Sakura back and try to prevent the public from knowing what has taken place. At least for now. Then we still have a spare stone to drop, if need be."

Fuu sighs, "Hopefully we can have Sakura-sama returned by tomorrow... but as for your other concern, I cannot truly say what the best course of action would be. It would definitely be in our interests to alert people to the Matsu invasion, so we can prepare our defences, but as to the Doji's more insidious style of attack..."

The elf girl spends a moment pacing as she considers the problem, "At a time like this, it is more important than ever that we present a united front - which is probably part of why the Doji chose to attack in this manner; even after we figure out their plan, it has a detrimental effect on our society..." she continues pacing as she speaks, before stopping and turning to Okina, "Perhaps the best policy would be to have your Shugenja patrol the city while detecting magic. Anyone suspicious could be detained on some other pretext, so that we can make a more thorough examination away from the public eye. If they are indeed Doji monks, they can be quietly dealt with, and if not, they can be let go while being none the wiser."

Finished speaking, she looks at Okina to guage his reaction to her plan.

"Yes, that may work.. perhaps. The Shugenja are not particularly numerous, and such spells do not last long. Still, it is a start," replies Okina.

"As for the Matsu.. if they do not have insurgents from within the city, they will crumble against our walls, certainly.

And once they have done that, I do not believe Sakura-sama will be as.. leniant as she was in the past."

Fuu nods, "I know the spell as well, though I only have it memorised once right now... I can at least check the castle itself, then after Hikaru returns, both she and I can meditate to restore our spells, with that particular one memorised several times. We can then lend some assistance to the Shugenja before we depart to rescue Sakura-sama."

With that, Fuu casts Detect Magic.

Okina immediatly pops up on Fuu's magic-sensing scope, along with the middle of the audience hall.

The man himself blinks. "Fair enough, I suppose," he says.

Fuu waits for the spell to reach its third stage before doing anything.

Okina's kimono is postively reeking of Abjuration magic, while the audience hall contains Evocation magic.

"As you may have guessed, Fuu-chan, my kimono shields me from harm," he says, chuckling. "And the audience hall is enchanted so that the speaker's voice echoes throughout."

At that point, a woman dressed in a extrodinarily well-made kimono rushes into the room. She's giving off a general magic aura, which points her out as a spellcaster.

"Okina-dono! We've discerned the purpose of the ring!" she says, looking somewhat upset.

"Oh? What does it do?" the man himself asks.

"It's a device that casts a 'message' spell continuously," says the Shugenja. "We know it's linked to somebody else, and that somebody has everything the ring picks up stored in *his* ring. Presumably there's a way to stop it sending, but we don't know. All we worked out is that is was operating when we checked it."

Fuu turns a very deep shade of purple at this news. "Shigen! That's how the whore's son was able to predict our movements!"

Her purple quickly turns to pink as she realises what she just said, "Ah, pardon my language, Okina-dono," she sighs, feeling far older than her one hundred and fourteen years, before bowing deeply, "I also apologise for bringing such trickery before you... now Shigen knows the details of our plan to rescue Sakura-sama, we may have to come up with a new plan..."

"But by now he must know that the Shugenja have unlocked his spell," replies Okina, smiling slightly. "No doubt he must think we will go with a new plan. Perhaps some reverse psychology is in order?"

"It would not unduly surprise me if he has prepared for either eventuality," Fuu sighs. "Still, it is a sound plan, so perhaps we would be best served by sticking to it."

Okina nods.

"Remember something else, Fuu," he says. "Just because the Doji disguise themselves as elves and play by such foul trickery does not mean they are the only ones who do so. Indeed, there are some from Cephiro who have mastered such arts with no need for disguises. I beg of you, be cautious."

"I understand, Okina-dono," Fuu responds gravely, "I will wait for Hikaru and Umi to return from their shopping, then we can meditate to restore our spells before we go to assist the Shugenja."

Okina nods. "As you say. I can have a room prepared, if you wish."

"Very well, Okina-dono. I shall retire for now," Fuu says.

"A rapier," Umi says, smiling, "for a child. Unless it's beyond your abilities?"

"Of course! I can easily procure such a thing!" bellows the Masked Mage.

"Loathe as I am to say it, though, the gaijin at the docks are selling such trinkets. Perhaps you would be better served there than to wait a few days for me to find your item."

Umi shrugs. "Might as well check for it there, then. Wanna come along, Hikaru?"

Hikaru smiles and nods. "I don't see why not. Fuu-chan's probably got everything under control with the scrying right now, and I don't think we'll be needed for much else for a little while."

Umi nods, and glances at the merchant again. "If I'm ever in the area and need awesomely cool stuff, I'll be sure to check with you."

Having said that, she heads to the docks.

The docks smell of fish.

This can be attributed to the large amount of raw fish being sold, just recently brought it by Cephiros veritable armada of fishing boats, which did more to keep the province fed that the few farms nearby the Capital.

Along with the fish are a few gaijin stalls, selling all sorts of odd trinkets, miniature weapons among them..

Umi goes to check out the miniature weapons the gaijin are selling, looking for a rapier.

Miniature bows, spears, swords, axes, everything is being sold. Apparently, a small rapier would cost 6gp.

"They're for these freaking half-people," says the merchant. "Half as tall as us, and twice as rude, I swear."

Judging by some of the talk gaijin produce, these half-people must be *pretty fucking rude*.

"That's okay, it's a gift for a normal person," Umi says, barely able to keep a smile off her face as she pays a merchant for the minature rapier. "Just young."

"I see," says the merchant. "A pleasure doing business with you!" he says, handing over the miniature stabbing-stick.

Umi nods, taking the rapier and glancing over at Hikaru. "Do we go back to meet with Fuu now?"

Hikaru nods. "That's fine with me. I don't have anything else I need to buy," she replies.

It isn't long before Umi and Hikaru are shown to the same room Fuu is in. It's a guest room, with a large single bed and various pictures and fine works of art here and there ot make it look appealing.

The time is about 4pm.

As the two walk in, Fuu completes her meditation time for her spellcasting..

Rising, Fuu tells the others about the plan for assisting the Shugenja in detecting disguised Doji monks before they go rescue Sakura.

Then her expression becomes grim as she relates another piece of news. "Also, that magic ring I found in Otoshi's tent; we discovered its purpose. It was casting a continuous message spell, no doubt to Shigen. So now we know how he anticipated our movements."

Umi curses, upon hearing that. Eventually, she relaxes, and shakes her head ruefully. "Well, there's nothing that we can do about it now. Do you think this should affect our rescue plan, Fuu?"

"At first I thought we should alter our plan, but then Okina-dono pointed out that Shigen would expect us to do that... rather than waste time second guessing ourselves, we agreed it would be best to continue the original plan - it is a sound one, after all," Fuu says.

Umi nods in agreement. "I like the way you think, Fuu," she says with a smile. "I might as well rest here for a while, as you go and look for monks, so I can be fresh for the meeting with Shigen." She shrugs. "It's not like I could see the disguised monks, anyway."

"I should be able to manage things," Fuu says, nodding, "Even if I do encounter a Doji monk who proves troublesome, the city watch is never far. What about you, Hikaru? Up for a little monk-hunting?"

Hikaru smiles. "I suppose I can help with that. I do have a Detect Magic spell prepared, and I rarely use it as it is. How exactly do you plan to go about this, Fuu-chan?"

"Take care, Fuu, Hikaru," Umi says, still smiling, though her grin turns mischievous. "Don't do anything I would!"

"I'll remember that, Umi," Fuu smiles at her friend before she leads Hikaru from the room. "Basically we have Shugenja patrolling the city and using Detect Magic, anyone who appears to be under an illusion or polymorphed is to be quietly taken for questioning to try and determine if they are a Doji infiltrator. This prevents us from causing a panic among the people. We should go speak to Okina-dono to ask what areas of the city we should check."

Upon reaching Okina, he says, "You should probably check out the barracks. The other Shugenja aren't as well equipped as you two to deal with someone if they decide to get.. hostile, and I'm not sure if they can survive before they can get help against a determined foe."[/i]

Fuu nods, "Very well, Okina-dono, that shall be our first stop."

Hikaru bows to the older elf. "We will do our best, Okina-dono."

Okina nods. "After that, you should check the docks.

Oh, shouldn't Umi be with you? In the event of resistance, she would be the most capable among you of putting down anyone who decides to play nasty.."

"Hmm..." Fuu looks thoughtful, "Umi said she was planning to rest before we rescue Sakura-sama, but I see your point. Perhaps it might be best to bring her along..."

"We can catch her on our way over to the barracks." Hikaru nods. "We'll be on our way now, Okina-dono, unless there's anything else you need."

"Just assurance that you'll be safe," he says, chuckling.

<->

Shortly after, the three of you are outside the barracks. Located away from the castle, it is a fairly large complex, built for holding a few hundred elven soldiers and samurai.

It is surrounded by a wall, and consists of four two-story buildings, each of which is much longer than it is wide. The guards at the front of the barracks allow you to enter, and you can see that some bushi are hard at training to the rear of the complex.

Hikaru nods. "I suppose we might as well get started then." Without further preamble, she casts her Detect Magic spell, although quietly enough not to attract attention from the bushi practicing in the yard ahead.

Hikaru sees two bushi that are with a magical aura. Further checking reveals that they are both under the effect of minor Transmutation magic. Furthermore, a few bushi have magical weapons, though not the bushi themselves enchanted.

Hikaru speaks to her companions in a low voice. "There are a few magical weapons, but there are two bushi being affected by Transmutation magic. The one in the brown gi with the blue headband, with the green hair, and the red-haired one in the light green gi."

"Transmutation... that could mean a polymorph spell," Fuu sighs. "I hope not, but we had best take them in for 'questioning' to be sure."

"I'm up for some fun," Umi says, before making her way to the first bushi indicated by Hikaru, stopping at a short distance from her target and waiting for him to acknowledge her.

The bushi looks over at Umi after a short while. "Uh, can I help you, miss.." he says, looking kinda shy.

"Umi. Dragonsblossom Umi." She smiles, flicking a loose strand of blue hair behind her ear. "May I now have the honor of knowing your name?"

"Tenko Senko," he replies. "Um.. did you want something?"

"A spar," she replies, giving him another smile. "Your training routine caught my eye, and I wanted to test myself against you. Would you be so kind as to grant me this wish?"

"Uh, sure," he says. "Did you want a practice sword?" he says, gesturing to a small rack of wooden swords..

Umi walks up to the rack, and picks a practice sword she'd be comfortable with, giving it a few test swings. "Yes, this will do nicely, I think," she tells Senko, sliding into a stance opposite of him.

"Uh, ok," he says, settling into his own stance.

Umi instantly picks up that it's not the standard kendo stance most elven bushi use; the Kaze no Tenchi Ryuu style. It's more a variant on an aggressive human style; perhaps the Matsu, or possibly a province further inland?

Umi shows no outwards signs of noticing her opponent's unusual stance, and decides to try and take him out off the start, with an overhead strike.

The boy seems surprisngly good, blocking her blow on his own weapon, then trying some kind of spinning technique which left his side wide open for Umi to score a blow, perhaps a little more powerful than it should have been.

Another couple of thwacks and the boy was out cold.

Umi looks around, and noticing the other bushi that Hikaru indicated earlier watching her, she gestures him over. "Could you help me take my sparring partner into the barracks?" she asks, picking up the boy's upper body.

"Yes! Of course!" he says, eagerly rushing over to help cart around the body.

A short while later, the five elves are in the barracks, with the unconcious elf lying on a bed..

Now that they have some privacy, Fuu turns an intent look towards the still awake transmuted 'elf'. "Care to explain how you and your friend are under the effects of a Transmutation spell?" she asks, betraying no emotion in her tone.

The boy pauses before answering. "It's, uh, a spell the shugenja cast on us before we started training! It's supposed to make us more resilant, so we don't hurt as much!"

"You two are friends, then?" Umi exclaims, clapping her hands. "You must've trained together, too!"

"Well, actually, uh, no, we didn't," the second boy says. "See, I was trained as a monk, and he was trained as a swordsman.."

"And what makes you warrant such special attention?" Fuu asks, "Shugenja are not in the habit of casting spells simply to make training a little less strenuous." Disbelief is now fairly clear in her voice.

"Oh, she's my sister," the kid blurts out.

"Perhaps we should take you and your friend to the castle? I'm sure the Shugenja there will be happy to clear this up?" Fuu suggests, smiling thinly.

The boy pauses, placing his hands over his friends head for a moment. "I'm not sure that's such a good idea, we've really gotta go back to training.."

"I think that's an excellent idea!" Umi says happily. "Much better than the alternative, right Fuu?"

"Umi," Fuu says chidingly as she catches on to her friend's ploy, "We're trying not to worry them, after all, it might not be..." her expression turns rather sickened, "that."

"Couldn't be wh- oh, he's waking up!" says the kid, looking at his friend, who is indeed rubbing his eyes.

"Welcome back to the land of the living," Umi says, stepping back slightly so she could see both of the boys. "Thank you for a pleasant fight."

"Ugh.. oh, right," he says. "Yeah, it's too easy to get hit," he says.

"I'm not sure I recognize your style," Umi says thoughtfully, tapping her chin. "Did you train in it here, at the capital?"

"Oh, no," says the boy. "I'm not from Cephiro, though. I was trained in Silverhome."

Silverhome, as you well know, is about as far from Cephiro as you get, being across the other side of the continent. It *is*, however, one of the five elven provinces in the entire land.

"Hello," Fuu says to the recently awakened 'elf', "We were just discussing how you appear to be under the effects of a Transmutation spell. Perhaps you can shed some light on this?"

"Oh, uh, yeah! That spell! It was a spell that made us move faster! Y'know, so we could train at hi-"

At this point, the other boy interrupts his friends speech with a vicious punch to Fuu's face, stunning her! "You *idiot*, Koshii!" he barks, rushing past Umi and leaping at Hikaru..

Umi's rapier materializes in her arm in a flash, and she swipes it across Koshii's face. "You know what I can do with a sword," she tells him, keeping it trained on the boy.

In response, Koshii screams as his eyes are taken out. He manages to chuck his blankets over the elf woman, entangling her, and stumbles out the bed, groping aimlessly..

"Fuu!" Hikaru swiftly draws her tanto from her sash, striking out at the boy as he jumps towards her.

Hikaru's tanto cuts across her opponents chest, but it isn't a very powerful weapon, leaving behind only a small slash..

OOC: Umi, your action.

Umi slashes upwards at the sheet with her sword after a momentary pause, trying to cut it in half and then take in the scene in the room.

The sheet folds, and Umi can see.. Fuu staggered over, in a daze, Hikaru fighting off the other boy, and the boy she just stabbed, screaming, arms outstretched. She can also hear the sound of footsteps appraoching the barracks..

Umi rushes forward and slams the hilt of her sword into the blind boy's face, trying to knock him out.

The boy is essentially a walking target, and drops quickly.

Hikaru stabs out with the long knife again, hoping to keep the 'elf' occupied until someone can arrive to help her.

Hikaru takes a light blow to the chest in response, but the fight is interrupted by a group of bushi, rushing in and pulling the woman apart from her agressor, both of whom are now held in strong arms.

"What's going on here?" a burly-looking elf says, loudly, directling his gaze at Umi. "Umi-san?"

"Please wait a moment," Umi says. "Don't let anyone in or out in the meanwhile." Turning to Fuu, she asks her, "Are you alright? Could you cast Detect Magic?"

Fuu manages to snap out of her daze, and the burly elf gives a nod of his head.

Nodding in reply to Umi, Fuu casts detect magic.

The burly elf dosn't show up on Fuu's radar, only the two elves she already knows are magically enhanced appear on it. Fuu gives a slight nod to Umi..

OOC: I'm taking liberties with your character to hurry things along, Eb. Speed has always been one of my highest priorities, but if you have a problem with me doing that sorta little thing, just tell me.

Satisfied by Fuu's nod, Umi addresses the burly elf, not fully taking her eyes off Hikaru's contained opponent. "The castle has been infiltrated by outsiders who disguised themselves to launch a coordinated surprise attack on us. Those two," she says, indicating the pair her friends' magic had caught, "have been spotted by Hikaru's magic and fell for Fuu's line of questioning, at which point they attempted to attack us and escape." Umi takes a deep breath. "Since any other infiltrators are likely to have been alerted by now, would you help us look for them amongst the rest of the bushi?"

"Hrmph," says the guard. "I trust your word, Umi-san, but we ourselves have no means of detecting magic. Oh, release her," he says, signalling to the other bushi, who releases Hikaru.

"What exactly would you have us do?"

"Let's try to gather as much bushi in a single area as possible, under the pretense of a drill or somesuch," Umi muses, glancing at her friends. "Fuu could then cast Detect Magic again on the lot of them, and we'll see who else is amongst the impostors. Those who wouldn't show up would be under suspicion, until we could see them and assure that they are indeed who they claim to be." After pausing momentarily, she adds, "And the two here should be incapacitated in the meanwhile, until we are free to interrogate them more."

Hikaru smoothes out her kimono as the bushi releases her, wincing a bit at the lovely bruise forming on her chest. She speaks quietly. "We should be very careful then, Umi. If their numbers are evenly spread throughout the bushi the way these two were, we could quickly find ourselves outnumbered."

"Well, there are still certain to be more genuine elves than infiltrators among the bushi, but I see your point, Hikaru, it would be best if things did not degenerate into a mass melee..." Fuu says to her redheaded friend.

OOC: I don't mind Fuu being NPC'd to just go along with whatever's happening, just so long as I don't miss anything important...

The lead bushi nods to Umi's words. "I'll see it's done. What should we do with these two?" he asks.

Hikaru crosses the room and picks up one of the sheets, using her knife to help her cut it into strips. "We can bind them and leave them here with one of your men as a guard, if that is quite all right with you. We can deal with them once we've taken a look at the rest of the bushi."

She nods towards the blinded, unconscious boy. "That one at least isn't going anywhere anytime soon."

"Of course, Hikaru-san. Oi! You lot! Get to it!" barks the bushi, sending all but two of the soldiers outside. The other two start tying up the now-protesting elf and his fallen comrade..

OOC: Quick pause if you want to say anything to each other.

Umi knocks out the protesting 'elf' with a scowl. "He should be easier to tie up now, I think," she comments, before waiting for the burly elf to return.

A short while later...

With the resistant elves safely secure, the burly elf has been true to his word, assembling 60 or so bushi in the training area. He approaches Umi..

"Umi-san, there are several not in attendance. Roughly seven or eight. We can comb the city for them, if you wish.."

Umi nods. "We'll do that after checking the majority of them." Pondering something for a moment, she tells the burly elf, "We should have them stand at distances from each other, I think, in case those whose identities are found out would try to assault the others in the ensuing confusion."

The elf nods. "Well, do your thing. I have the men you inspected from the barracks standing by in case something happens," he says.

"Thank you," Umi says sincerely, and turns to Fuu, the corners of her mouth quirking. "Work your magic?"

Making sure she is close enough to encompass all the assembled Bushi with her spell, Fuu casts Detect Magic once more.

Umi scans the crowd with her eyes, standing close enough to Fuu to react should anyone try to attack her.

A few enchanted swords glow with magic, but none of the bushi appear to be enchanted themselves..

Satisfied, Fuu turns to Umi and Hikaru. "No one here is using magic to disguise themselves," she informs the others.

Umi nods, satisfied. "Then we only need to check on the few that couldn't be found, Mr...?" She trails off, glancing at the burly elf questioningly.

"Hisame," he replies. "They could be anywhere, however, but I'll get some men on it right away."

Umi frowns. "Perhaps it would be best to keep everyone together, for now. Small groups sent after the missing bushi might get ambushed, and replaced like the two Hikaru found. Besides," she muses out loud, "if we split up our forces such a short time before we'll need them...."

Hisame nods.

"I see what you mean, but there are many loyal bushi, and apparently only a few insurgents. If we travel in groups of six to ten, even if they were to be ambushed, it would not be difficult to raise the alarm. Nobody can ambush that many people in a busy city without a hitch."

OOC: I live! For about fifteen minutes, mind. >_>

"Alright, let's make that ten," Umi agrees, nodding. "And in the meanwhile, we could interrogate the two in captivity. Is there a supply of truth serum handy, or would we need to inquire with Okina-san?"

Hisame gives a short bark of laughter. "We don't usually interrogate people in the barracks," he says. "Okina may have some, or you could try the castle prison or the shugenja themselves."

"The prison would be our best chance, then," Umi decides, nodding to herself. "We could hold them there, afterwards." She gives Hisame a smile. "I won't keep you away from your duties any longer with my questions."

Hisame bows. "It was an honor speaking to you, Umi-san.."

<->

A short while later, the two traitorous bushi are safely ensconced in prison. As Umi, Fuu, and Hikaru are invited to come and have a 'chat' with him, they see someone being released from the prison itself.

He's a human, looks to be about 25-30 years of age. He's handsome, as humans go; with shoulder-length flowing blue hair and a beautiful face, with an aquiline nose and deep, piercing eyes.

He seems a little irritated, muttering about 'unjust imprisonment', at least until he has a sudden coughing fit and drops to his knees, leaning on a long, wooden cane.

Umi recognizes the cane as a concealed sword; fairly common amongst travellers who want bandits to underestimate them, or with rogues themselves looking to appear like a normal person with a cane.

[23:33] <Kind-GM-Rat> We may as well start from where we left off.
[23:33] <Kind-GM-Rat> While you two headed to the prison, Umi said she had 'something to do' and told you two to go on ahead.
[23:33] <Kind-GM-Rat> And, directly c/ping from my last post..
[23:34] <Kind-GM-Rat> A short while later, the two traitorous bushi are safely ensconced in prison. As Umi, Fuu, and Hikaru are invited to come and have a 'chat' with him, they see someone being released from the prison itself.
[23:34] <Kind-GM-Rat> He's a human, looks to be about 25-30 years of age. He's handsome, as humans go; with shoulder-length flowing blue hair and a beautiful face, with an aquiline nose and deep, piercing eyes.
[23:34] <Kind-GM-Rat> He seems a little irritated, muttering about 'unjust imprisonment', at least until he has a sudden coughing fit and drops to his knees, leaning on a long, wooden cane.
[23:34] <Fuu> "Are you alright?" Fuu asks in a concerned voice, hurrying over to him.
[23:35] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Ah," *hack* *cough*, "no, but I'll manage," he manages to say, struggling to his feet.
[23:36] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Wretched disease.."
[23:36] <Hikaru> "What illness do you have, sir?" Hikaru asks quietly.
[23:36] * Prince_Herb is now known as Prince_Herb[in_town]
[23:37] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Tuberculosis," he coughs out, producing a handkerchief from somewhere and wiping a bit of blood off his chin.
[23:39] <Kind-GM-Rat> "You elves are lucky, you know. I havn't seen a single elf with the disease.. but then again, it originated in human lands, and how many people with a disease <a href="http://go-all.com?go=travel" onmouseover="window.status = 'goto: travel';return 1" onmouseout="window.status=''">travel</a> so far?" he continues.
[23:40] <Hikaru> "Why ARE you here? And what did you do to be thrown in prison in your condition?"
[23:40] <Kind-GM-Rat> "I'm here looking for.. something. As for being thrown into prison.. perhaps you could tell me."
[23:41] <Kind-GM-Rat> "I had permission to use the castle library, when all of a sudden, a pair of shugenja approach me."
[23:41] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Apparently, I'm under suspicion of being a spy."
[23:41] <Fuu> "These are dangerous times," Fuu says quietly.
[23:42] <Kind-GM-Rat> The man snorts. Or at least tries to, before it dissolves into another cough.
[23:42] <Kind-GM-Rat> "..hah..ha.. as if someone in my condition!" he says, choking it back down.
[23:42] <Kind-GM-Rat> "It was hard enough just getting here, never mind getting out again to 'report' to my 'Doji masters'."
[23:43] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Do you accuse every human of being a spy, or just the sick ones?"
[23:43] <Fuu> "Oh, some of them aren't sick..." Fuu says, remembering the punch to the face she had taken not that long ago.
[23:46] <Kind-GM-Rat> "If you say so," he replies. "You wouldn't be able to tell me what's going on, would you? No, I suppose that's a secret."
[23:47] <Kind-GM-Rat> "I don't know where all this suspicion towards the Doji is coming from, last I heard, they were at it again with the Daidoji, only a month ago.. but then again, it has nothing to do with me."
[23:47] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Thanks for your concern, at least." With that, he starts staggering off, in the general direction of the castle library.
[23:48] * Fuu watches the man go for a moment, before turning to Hikaru. "Well, I suppose we had best get to questioning our other friends..."
[23:50] * Hikaru nods. "I wish we could do something for that poor man, though."
[23:51] <Fuu> "Sad to say, we have more important things to worry about, Hikaru," Fuu says, her voice resigned as she heads into the prison.
[23:52] * Hikaru nods and quietly follows Fuu into the prison.
[23:53] <Kind-GM-Rat> Once inside the prison, you are greeted by a Shugenja, who hands you a a pair of small vials. "Truth serum," she says. "Watch out, we caught another one before, but he bit his tounge and bled to death."
[23:54] <Fuu> "Yes, the same thing happened in Otsu," Fuu says with some annoyance.
[23:55] * Hikaru tucks the vial into her wide sash. "Perhaps you could stop them with a healing spell, Fuu-chan?"
[23:55] * Fuu grimaces, not wanting to waste her spells on Doji scum. "I suppose I could, but I'd rather we just stopped them from biting their tongues to begin with..."
[23:56] <Kind-GM-Rat> The shugenja smiles grimly. "It takes a long time to bleed to death that way, and it's agonizing to do so. Only the truly desperate or the truly terrified would do such a thing."
[23:58] <Fuu> "But are they terrified of us, or what their masters would do if they talked?" Fuu asks, her tone equally grim.
[23:59] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Or possibly the truly fanatical," the Shugenja continues. "Either way, I leave it to you."
[23:59] * V-chan is now known as Umi
[00:00] <Fuu> "Very well," Fuu accepts the serum, bowing and heading into the cell.
[00:00] * Umi is now known as guest58480
[00:01] <Hikaru> "Thank you for your help." Hikaru bows slightly to the shugenja before following Fuu.
[00:01] * guest58480 is now known as V-chan
[00:01] <Kind-GM-Rat> Inside the cell, you find the traitorous elves both tied to wooden chairs, unconcious. A bucket of water sits just outside, specially prepared for one purpose, and one purpose only..
[00:02] * Ana-brbagain is now known as Anastasia
[00:05] <V-chan> Umi splashes the rightmost prisoner with a bit of water from the bucket.
[00:05] <Fuu> Her expression cold, Fuu marches up to the 'elf' that had stunned her earlier, and punches him hard on the jaw, aiming to break it and prevent him from biting his tongue.
[00:06] <Kind-GM-Rat> Fuu gets wet.
[00:06] <Kind-GM-Rat> However, combined with the water and the punch, the elf wakes up, a fearful expression in his eyes.
[00:07] <Fuu> None too gently grabbing his broken jaw, Fuu forces the truth serum down his throat, holding both his mouth and nose close to force him into swallowing.
[00:07] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elves eyes bulge out in pain, and tears of pain slide down his cheeks as he swallows the serum..
[00:09] * Fuu nods approvingly. "Now, you're going to answer all of our questions, aren't you?"
[00:10] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf slowly nods his head, giving a furtive glance to his partner.
[00:11] <Fuu> "Good," Fuu says in a bright tone, betrayed by her still cold expression, "That way there won't be any more unpleasantness. How many of you are in the city?"
[00:11] <Kind-GM-Rat> "..lotsh," replies the elf, wincing as he speaks.
[00:12] <Fuu> "Lots... so, more than a hundred, would you say?" Fuu cajoles.
[00:13] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf nods. "Welsh, I thinksh sho," he continues. "Nobody toldsh me."
[00:13] <Hikaru> "Where are they?" Hikaru asks with an expression of distaste. "With the bushi? Living in the city?"
[00:14] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Hersh ands theresh," he replies.
[00:14] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Everywhersh."
[00:14] <Fuu> "What is the signal for you to attack us?" Fuu asks, deciding he probably doesn't know much about other cells of infiltrators.
[00:16] <Kind-GM-Rat> He pales at that question, and shakes his head.
[00:16] <Fuu> "I can't hear you," Fuu says, leaning in closer.
[00:16] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Shigensh," he says. "Shigensh shaid it would be clear."
[00:17] <Hikaru> "How was he supposed to let you know? Surely he couldn't speak to every one of you himself."
[00:17] * Fuu sighs. "Yes, I'm sure he did. And was it Shigen that provided the means for you to be polymorphed into the form of an elf?"
[00:17] <Kind-GM-Rat> "He shaid it should be obvioush," the elf replies.
[00:17] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Nosh," he says to the second question.
[00:18] <Fuu> "Who did it, then?"
[00:19] <Kind-GM-Rat> "We *arsh* elvsh," he says, simply.
[00:20] * Fuu blinks, surprised. It should be impossible for him to lie... "Then what is the spell on you?"
[00:20] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Shpell? Cast Magick?" he says, questioningly.
[00:22] <Kind-GM-Rat> "No sphell," he continues.
[00:22] <Fuu> "You have a Transmutation spell upon you. The one we asked you about before your friend over there blew your story," Fuu says, her patience fraying. Has the serum worn off?
[00:23] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Ohsh, thshat," he says.
[00:23] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Shore sha Himishtsu Deshu."
[00:24] <V-chan> Umi twitches. "Fuu, he doesn't really need both ears to hear you, does he?"
[00:24] * Fuu grabs his jawbone and jostles it a little. "What was that, I had trouble understanding you."
[00:24] <Fuu> "I'm sure one ear will be sufficient for our purposes," she adds to Umi.
[00:25] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf sets his chin, awaiting his punishment.
[00:26] <Fuu> With a last squeeze to the broken jawbone, Fuu steps back a little to let Umi do her grisly work, staring at the elf's eyes all the while.
[00:26] * Hikaru turns her head to the side, unwilling to watch Umi.
[00:28] <V-chan> Umi's rapier flashes, slicing at the elf's right ear, while she holds his head steady with her free arm.
[00:28] <Kind-GM-Rat> The ear simply drops off. The elves eyes bulge out in pain, and blood starts trickling from the wound.
[00:28] <Kind-GM-Rat> His eyes then roll back into his head, and he goes limp.
[00:29] <V-chan> Umi walks back towards the bucket of water, and splashes him with some of it again, making sure not to hit Fuu this time.
[00:29] <Hikaru> "I suppose we should stop the bleeding at least. We don't want him to bleed to death, after all." Hikaru frowns.
[00:30] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf fails to wake up this time around. He's well and truly out of it.
[00:30] <Fuu> Fuu nods, spontaneously casting Cure Minor Wounds to at least keep him from dying on them, even if it won't actually do much for his injuries.
[00:30] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf dosn't wake up, but his ear wound does close up.
[00:32] <V-chan> Umi goes to punch the second elf in the jaw, much like Fuu had done earlier.
[00:33] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf wakes up, but his chin is made of sterner stuff than the other elf, failing to break.
[00:33] <Kind-GM-Rat> His jaw.
[00:33] <Kind-GM-Rat> Yeah.
[00:34] * Hikaru walks over to the second elf, forcing the second vial of truth serum between his lips and forcing him to swallow the same way Fuu did to his companion.
[00:35] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf, surprised in his barely-awake state, gurgles down the serum..
[00:36] <V-chan> "Where are you from?" Umi asks once the elf has taken the serum, ready to try and break his jaw if he tries to do what her other prisoner had in Otsu.
[00:36] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Kyuden Oniko," he replies.
[00:37] <V-chan> "Where is Castle Oniko?"
[00:37] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Japania."
[00:38] <V-chan> "Which part of Japania?" Umi continues, mentally cursing the inventors of the truth serum.
[00:39] <Kind-GM-Rat> "To the West."
[00:39] <Kind-GM-Rat> Umi notes that Cephiro is on the Eastern coast.
[00:40] <Hikaru> "Which province?"
[00:40] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Kaisho."
[00:40] <Kind-GM-Rat> That name rings a bell.
[00:41] <V-chan> "Why do you attack Cephiro?"
[00:41] <Kind-GM-Rat> Kaisho is a long-lost elven province that is spoken of only in legends. It was once said to cover roughy 1/4 of the entire Japanian continent, stretching from the Southwest coast to the centre. However, the legend says that internal infighting within the elves made them easy prey for more warlike humans on the outskirts. Inevitably, the elves were scattered across Japania...
[00:42] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Because Shigen-sama orders us to," he replies.
[00:42] <Fuu> "Why do you follow Shigen?" Fuu interjects.
[00:42] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Because he is the brother of the Champion," he replies.
[00:42] <V-chan> "Does Shigen want to see Cephiro destroyed?"
[00:43] <Kind-GM-Rat> "No."
[00:43] <V-chan> "What is his goal, then?"
[00:43] <Kind-GM-Rat> "He says he is looking for something."
[00:43] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Something that will lead us to greatness."
[00:44] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Something that will allow us revenge."
[00:44] <Kind-GM-Rat> He abruptly stops, realising he's said too much.
[00:44] <V-chan> "Revenge against whom?" Umi asks, curious.
[00:44] <Kind-GM-Rat> He gives an incredulous look. "Who do you think? You elves, of course," he replies.
[00:45] <V-chan> Umi frowns. "And are you an elf?"
[00:45] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Yes."
[00:46] <Hikaru> "Why do you want revenge against us?" Hikaru asks flatly.
[00:47] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Because you are responsible for making us want revenge against you," he says, cryptically.
[00:47] <V-chan> Umi shakes her head. "Okay. What is the Champion's name? The one who is Shigen's brother?"
[00:48] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Akira. She is the champion," he says.
[00:48] <V-chan> "Where is she now?"
[00:49] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Kyuden Oniko."
[00:50] <Fuu> "What is the transmutation spell that has been cast upon you?" Fuu asks, still wanting to know about that.
[00:51] * Fuu (danielmcdo@modem-3487.alligator.dialup.pol.co.uk) Quit (QUIT: )
[00:52] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf gives a glance at his companion. "He musn't have told you. What makes you think I will?"
[00:52] * Fuu (danielmcdo@modem-1548.dasyure.dialup.pol.co.uk) has joined #rawr
[00:52] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Fuu
[00:53] <Kind-GM-Rat> [00:52] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf gives a glance at his companion. "He musn't have told you. What makes you think I will?"
[00:53] <V-chan> "Because you're smarter?" Umi suggests.
* Retrieving #rawr modes...
[00:55] <Kind-GM-Rat> He dosn't reply.
[00:55] <V-chan> "How about an easier question?" Umi asks suddenly. "Did you train at the place you grew up?"
[00:56] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Yes."
[00:57] <V-chan> "How about your friend over there?" she asks, pointing at the second prisoner.
[00:57] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Yes."
[00:57] <V-chan> "Were you trained by humans?"
[00:58] <Kind-GM-Rat> "No."
[00:58] <V-chan> "I see." Umi nods to herself. "Has the palace been infiltrated, beyond those of you amongst the bushi?"
[00:59] <Hikaru> "How long have you been here in the capital?"
[01:00] <Kind-GM-Rat> "I would presume so. We have been here a week."
[01:01] <V-chan> "Do any of the shugenja belong to your group?"
[01:01] <Kind-GM-Rat> "I don't know."
[01:01] <Fuu> "What was your plan for after recieving Shigen's signal to attack?"
[01:02] <Kind-GM-Rat> "To kill."
[01:02] <Fuu> "Just randomly attack? There was no plan for a coordinated attack against specific targets?"
[01:03] <Kind-GM-Rat> "We were not to kill any bushi."
[01:03] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Unless provoked."
[01:03] <V-chan> Umi recalls something the elf had said earlier. "Is your reason for attack jealousy at Cephiro's success and prosperity?"
[01:04] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Jealousy may play a small part."
[01:05] <Fuu> "But when you attack, the bushi would be honourbound to stop you. How do you reconcile being ordered not to kill them unless provoked with the sure knowledge that they WILL provoke you?" Fuu asks curiously.
[01:05] <V-chan> "What's the bigger part, then?"
[01:06] <Kind-GM-Rat> "We will run, of course. As for the bigger part.. it will be revealed to you. Later."
[01:06] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Much later."
[01:06] <Kind-GM-Rat> "When you see Shigen again.. remember. He wants to save you three."
[01:07] <Fuu> "Yes, we had gathered as much," Fuu says grimly.
[01:07] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Enough. I can speak no more."
[01:08] <Kind-GM-Rat> There's a tone of finality to his words.
[01:08] <V-chan> "How about one more question?" Umi asks. "Did it hurt to have your eyesight taken away from you, that time?"
[01:09] <Kind-GM-Rat> "It did."
[01:10] * Fuu looks askance at Umi, wondering why she is asking such a question.
[01:10] <V-chan> "That enchantment on you must be pretty handy, then," she comments idly, returning Fuu's glance.
[01:10] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Oh, it is," he replies, grinning suddenly. "Very useful indeed."
[01:14] <V-chan> Umi nods to herself, and hits the elf's jaw, applying more strength this time to hopefully break it and knock him out, though not killing him.
[01:15] <Kind-GM-Rat> The elf goes out cold.
[01:15] <V-chan> Umi checks that both elves are still out cold.
[01:15] <Kind-GM-Rat> Both elves are indeed out cold.
[01:15] <Fuu> "We've learnt all we can here," Fuu says coldly, "Let's go. We have to prepare for our mission tonight."
[01:16] * Hikaru nods solemnly.
[01:18] <V-chan> "Let's go find Okina-san, first," Umi says, "and report our new findings, as well as tell him not to trust any elf who joined the castle's ranks over the past week."
[01:19] * Fuu nods, stepping out of the cell.
[01:19] <Kind-GM-Rat> You hear footsteps behind you.. "Oh, good, I was supposed to take you to him." It's a familiar voice..
[01:19] * Hikaru turns to see who it is.
[01:19] <Kind-GM-Rat> ...none other than Master Toshi himself, who looks like hell.
[01:20] <Kind-GM-Rat> He's got blood all over him, for starters.
[01:20] <Kind-GM-Rat> His gi and hakama are ripped, and he's going to have a new scar on his cheek.
[01:20] <Kind-GM-Rat> "The Shugenja said my rest would have to wait," he says, mournfully.
[01:20] <Kind-GM-Rat> "They healed me up, but my clothing is damaged forever."
[01:21] <Fuu> "Toshi-sama!" Fuu is startled by his arrival, "But, if you're here... has Shiko fallen?"
[01:22] <V-chan> "The wisest choice would've been to evacuate, once the bushi we sent to warn it arrived," Umi says grimly.
[01:22] <Kind-GM-Rat> Toshi shrugs. "The village may have, but we are all alive," he replies. "But you must see Okina now. By pure chance, he has stumbled across something."
[01:22] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Exactly what, I'm not sure."
[01:23] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Oh, yes. Ami is exceedingly irritated with you, Umi," he continues.
[01:23] <Fuu> "Very well, let us go," Fuu nods, relieved that at least everyone got out okay...
[01:23] <Kind-GM-Rat> "She thought she'd see you again sooner, never mind that we'd left and didn't expect to see you."
[01:25] <V-chan> "I'm positive that my exceedingly cool gift to her will placate her," Umi says, trying to reassure herself.
[01:25] * Fuu (danielmcdo@modem-1548.dasyure.dialup.pol.co.uk) Quit (QUIT: )
[01:25] <Kind-GM-Rat> "I'm sure she can't wait. And neither can I. I am in desperate need of a bath, so if you'll all hurry onto Okina..."
[01:25] <Kind-GM-Rat> <->
[01:29] * Fuu (danielmcdo@modem-2182.alligator.dialup.pol.co.uk) has joined #rawr
[01:29] * ChanServ sets mode: +o Fuu
[01:30] <Kind-GM-Rat> Toshi leaves you at the door to the Audience Chamber, complaining about his ruined outfit and that he must have left a thick smell of blood all through the halls.
[01:30] * Night_Onion (ssj_harbin@xula.edu) Quit (QUIT: gone for the day. Big test monday. Study, study, study, study...)
[01:31] <V-chan> Umi opens the door, heading inside.
[01:31] <Kind-GM-Rat> Inside, you immediatly notice two things.
[01:31] <Kind-GM-Rat> The first is Okina, pacing back and forth.
[01:32] <Kind-GM-Rat> The second is none other than the man you ran into heading to the prison. He seems to have temproarily gotten over his cough, and is sipping on some tea, kneeling.
[01:33] <Kind-GM-Rat> Okina turns to look at you three, a slightly happier expression coming across his face. "I trust your interrogation bore fruit?" he asks.
[01:39] <Fuu> "We did learn a bit, Okina-dono," Fuu says, casting an annoyed glance at her silent comrades. "Firstly, it seems that some of the infiltrators are not actually disguised, but really are elves. However, they have some enchantment on them, though the nature I could not determine."
[01:39] <Fuu> "They claimed to represent 'Kaisho', and the Doji monk, Shigen, is the brother of their champion, a female named Akira."
[01:40] <V-chan> "We do know that a traitorous elf that lost his eyes to a sword strike only a short time ago regained his eyesight, and it might be related to the enchantment," Umi adds.
[01:40] <Fuu> "They weren't told exactly when to attack, just that the signal would be obvious. Oddly, they were ordered not to kill any bushi unless provoked..."
[01:42] <Fuu> "It seems the infiltrators only started arriving within the last week, so we should definitely examine carefully any recent additions to the bushi and shugenja ranks," Fuu suggests.
[01:43] <Kind-GM-Rat> Okina listens intently. "I see. Then you must have worked out that Shigen cannot be a Doji monk."
[01:43] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Or perhaps not.. I should explain."
[01:43] <V-chan> "As well as any other elves admitted into the castle during that period," Umi says. "The two elves we caught were masking their real skills, and it won't be inconceivable that others would do the same."
[01:44] <Kind-GM-Rat> "They said they were elves, did they? You must have been surprised, even doubted if your truth serum was working correctly."
[01:44] * Fuu nods, the thought did occur...
[01:45] <V-chan> Umi nods at Okina's words.
[01:45] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Well. Before I continue, let me say that we have had no new recruits within the last week, and I know exactly how they are capable of disguising themselves.
[01:46] <Kind-GM-Rat> "While I do not know the how, or the why, I can tell you that these elves.. they are 'special', in their own way. I stumbled across Ukyo here reading a text in the library, and things started to make sense."
[01:46] <Kind-GM-Rat> "These elves are elves who have crossbred with demons. They are known as the "Fey'ri".
[01:46] * Fuu gasps!
[01:47] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Because of their long-spread taint of demonic energy, they have mutated to gain various.. talents? Abilities? Whatever you call it."
[01:48] <Kind-GM-Rat> "One such ability is that they can change into any humanoid form at will, similiar to the 'Alter Self' spell."
[01:48] <Kind-GM-Rat> "As for why they are here.. well, Ukyo can explain better than eye."
[01:49] * Fuu turns her attention to the human.
[01:49] <Kind-GM-Rat> The human blinks, and turns. "Yes. Well. It begins and ends with Shigen," he says. "My tale, at least."
[01:50] <Kind-GM-Rat> "In sparing you the details, let me simply say he is responsible for the present state of my body."
[01:51] <Fuu> "He gave you tuberculosis?"
[01:51] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Yes, but it isn't normal tuberculosis."
[01:51] <Kind-GM-Rat> "It attacks the mind and soul as well as the body. As each day passes, I see things less clearly, my body does not work as I wish it should, and I begin to lose control over myself."
[01:52] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Though I hate to be so melodramatic, I am plauged with nightmares of the night he inflicted this upon me."
[01:52] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Me, and my entire family."
[01:53] <Kind-GM-Rat> "He tricked me, you see. His ability to change shape allowed him to pose as a wandering medicine man, who told me of a special relic, called the 'Heaven Flower'. It is supposedly capable of curing any illness, healing any wound."
[01:53] <Kind-GM-Rat> "I conducted some of my own research on the topic, and soon set out to find this so-called miracle cure.
[01:54] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Reality, however, is cruel. The 'Heaven Flower' is also known as the 'Demon Flower'. While it's exact abilities are unknown to me, I have surmised that should a demonic being hold it, they will gain great power.."
[01:55] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Shigen used me, you see. I do not know what he was busy with, but I managed to track the location of this flower to Cephiro."
[01:55] <Kind-GM-Rat> "He had me followed, I guess; I didn't know when I saw you outside the prison."
[01:56] <Kind-GM-Rat> "He must have known as soon as I entered the province, and begun his preperation for an invasion of sorts. Perhaps it is simply fate that the Fey'Ri loathe the elves as the Doji loathe the Daidoji."
[01:56] <Kind-GM-Rat> He suddenly bursts into a coughing fit. While he struggles to control himself, Okina starts speaking.
[01:58] <Kind-GM-Rat> "They wish to have this magical artifact, clearly. I have never heard of it. I cannot understand why the Fey'Ri have coerced the Matsu into attacking us. Perhaps they simply hope to kill us all first and then find the item in the wreckage."
[01:58] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Either way, the origins and terminal objectives of the Fey'Ri are still unknown to us."
[01:59] <V-chan> "But if that's true...." Umi shakes her head. "Why the Katsu attack?"
[01:59] <Kind-GM-Rat> Okina shakes his head. "Don't you see? The Katsu are not the Katsu, but Fey'Ri, disgusing themselves to confuse us."
[02:00] <Fuu> "And the same with the Doji?"
[02:00] <V-chan> "So they disguise themselves as Katsu and Doji, but not Matsu...."
[02:00] <Kind-GM-Rat> Ukyo nods. "The Fey'Ri do not have the numbers to mount a full-scale assualt on Cephiro."
[02:00] <Kind-GM-Rat> "While they could certainly spread confusion by acting within the city, they could not destroy it outright, I am sure."
[02:00] <Kind-GM-Rat> He starts coughing again, unable to speak for long.
[02:01] <Kind-GM-Rat> "So they would have moved to control Otoshi of the Matsu clan," finishes Okina.
[02:01] <V-chan> "Then, perhaps, it's not too late to avoid war with the Matsu?" Umi ventures.
[02:01] <Kind-GM-Rat> "It is possible that it can be stopped, yes."
[02:02] <Kind-GM-Rat> "But the Fey'Ri have also kidnapped Sakura, creating a problem."
[02:02] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Most of our forces will be committed to rooting out the Fey'Ri from within the city, and standing guard for the Matsu."
[02:03] <Kind-GM-Rat> "You three and Toshi are easily the best candidates for this sort of work," he says.
[02:04] <Kind-GM-Rat> "Well, by that I mean either resucing Sakura-sama, or sneaking into the Matsu camp and trying to sort out the Fey'Ri there."
[02:04] <V-chan> "If our opponents are elves, and they know we're coming, there our old plan for rescuing Sakura-san is flawed," Umi says.
[02:05] * Fuu nods. "The geisha within the Matsu camp are obviously the Fey'ri..."

"Doubtless," replies Okina, moving to help Ukyo, who sounds like he's about to die.

"To convince Otoshi to stop, you would have to show him the true nature of the Geisha. To do so, you would have to reveal their true forms to him. A Fey'Ri is quite obviously demonic when in it's natural form, so Ukyo tells me. The only question is, how."

He suddenly gives Hikaru a look. "How are your magical studied coming along, Hikaru?"

"Fairly well, Okina-dono. It's been a bit tough to find time to study my books with all that's happened in the past few days, but I manage well enough. Why do you ask?" The pink haired elf inquires.

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."

"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.

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

"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.

"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.

"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."

"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.

"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.."

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...

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

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

"*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.

"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."

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

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

Okina stands. "Then I will see what can be done," he replies..

OOC: To be continued in... SEPERATE THREADS.