Shirika Annals [One-shot/General IC Thread | CLOSED]

[Shirika]

JOIN SHIRIKA! | GUIDEBOOK | HISTORIA | INTRODUCTION | SERIES | SHORT STORIES | STORY ARCS | DISCORD

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Tell me the stories of long ago, of legends of heroes of old
Of champions and villains, paragons and fiends, of those whose lives were foretold.
Tell me how the gods in heav' came to be, and the earth, sea, and sky
How creatures great and small filled the world, and when mortals opened their eyes.

Tell me the sagas of our ancestors, how from their feeble hands,
Built wonders of stone, made tools from iron, to raise great cities of sand.
Tell me the stories of how strangers came to us from unknown and distant shores
How we loved and hated, spoke out and kept silent, learned to make peace and make war.

Tell me the tales of those who wandered the length and breadth of the earth,
Sing me the hymns meant for kings, sing e'en of princes' birth.
Recite to me the chants from the temple, prayers the gods hear on high
Warn me for the end to come to all things, and pray life itself never die.

Tell me these tales as long as I live, from the day I draw my first breath
To the moment when I shall close my eyes and face the god of death.
I pray thee for the sake of those before us, let not their memory fade
I pray thee for the sake of those that follow, may they be shown the way.

I N T R O D U C T I O N

Welcome to the Shirika Annals, a compendium of creative works by the members of Shirika. The contents of this repository are varied and diverse, ranging from the acts of leaders to the daily routines of his subjects, from the intrigues of the court to the chaos of the battlefield. Let your imagination flow free, and tell your people's stories here. Serials, short stories, and roleplays that may be outside of already existing RPs can be submitted here by Shirika members.

While this repository offers members with the opportunity to post any stories they want that take place within the In-Character universe of Shirika, there are some rules for this thread that are to be followed.

1. The content that may be posted should not be in violation of the NS Forum Rules or the rules outlined in the Shirika Guidebook.
2. No Out-of-Character (OOC) posts are allowed in this thread. This is strictly meant for IC content.
3. Posts should not contain graphic depictions of gore, violence, nudity, and sexual content. Keep things PG-13. Rape is taboo. If the content of the post is meant for a more adult audience, please add the [MATURE] tag at the beginning of your post. Should any IC post be deemed to violate this rule, it will be removed.
4. A minimum of three (3) paragraphs is required for all IC posts in this thread.
5. One-shots/short stories and serials must have a title at the beginning of the post. It is recommended the title be centered in order to better aid the reader what it is all about. Serials and connected stories may have a subtitle to indicate that this story is part of a series.
6. Short story series must end within five (5) posts.
7. Roleplays in this thread should have a discernible header to orient the readers to the next post and should end within eight (8) posts. It is not allowed for players to conduct large-scale RPs here.
8. All images except those used for headers should be put in spoilers or linked to a URL.
9. Factbooks, wiki-style articles, and news entries are not allowed in this thread. There are other places for those things.

[Shirika]

S E R I E S
The Beginning - by The Emerald Isle of the Beare-Mor
Part 1

Tales from the Holy Land - by TheHolyLandsOfGanos
Part 1

S H O R TS T O R I E S
Rise Achesia, Rise! - by Achesia

[Shirika]

S T O R YA R C S
Along the Nishikaido
1

Buzuruk Arc
1

[The Emerald Isle of the Beare-Mor]

The Beginning

The Beginning of Revenge: A Series on the Development of Chase

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The man lifted the boy's chin up, and smiled, "Don't worry Chase. You'll learn to be a castor. It takes time. Don't be so dissapointed in yourself." The boy, Chase, looked up at the mans glowing blue eyes, luminescent symbols printed upon his arms, and the necklace that hung around his neck, containing a crystal. Chase spoke to him, with the higher pitched voice that all prepubescent children have. "I know....but I can almost get it. I swear!" he said, a small crystal hanging from his neck, voice echoing with excitement.
He couldn't have been older than eight. They stood in a clearing, deep within the Whispering Timberlands. The wizard, Atticus, was attempting to train Chase. He was cast out of his village when he started exhibiting abilities. Atticus was a powerful wizard, perhaps the most powerful wizard in the kingdom. Which doesn't speak much for his ability, just his knack for staying alive. But the boy....Chase....he was driven out of his village of Stormcrest. His family feared for their safety, the Wraith Blades would have killed them had they found out.

That had been months ago.

Atticus shook his head out of his reverie, and looked at the boy, nearly chuckling, "I know Chase. I know. But let us not work for too much longer, I have no wish to harm you, my child, and too much energy will do so."

Chase nodded his head, "Alright Atticus, we can work on it more tomorrow."

A rustling in the surrounding underbrush was heard, and Atticus turn his head to the source. An armoured man, breathing heavily, burst into the clearing, weapon drawn. "Atticus! They found us, they found Haven. They are searching for you as we speak."

Atticus rushed forward, towards the knight, and placed his hands on the mans shoulders, and looked straight into his eyes, "Who...who found us? Collect your thoughts, Edwin." The knight, Edwin, looked at Atticus desparingly, "The Wraith Blades! Those hunting castors for the crown!" Atticus looked down, "Damn it!" he cursed violently. He looked over towards Chase.

"Edwin, I need you to look after Chase. Keep him safe. He is a wizard." Atticus reached into his pocket and withdrew a few crystallin objects. "These are the focusing crystals he'll need to train. Keep them with you. They'll another arcan node a few leagues east, at our back up sanctuary. You need to keep Chase safe. I fear I won't live for much longer, I will protect this place with my life."

Edwin nodded, "Yes sir, I shall care for Chase, the child." he said, taking the crystals, "But how will you protect Haven without a weapon? Your abilities aren't all powerful." Atticus looked at Edwin, his glowing blue eyes sowing signs of vengeance, "I will take a weapon from the corpses of our attackers. I will not let Haven fall." Atticus sighed, and headed over to Chase, "My child, I need you to go with Edwin. He'll protect you. Haven is no longer safe, and I want you to be protected. Please go with Edwin."

Chase nodded, but started tearing up, "What of you, Atticus? Will you come with?" Atticus nodded slowly, "Yes...I'll be coming with you, after I do a few things." he lied through his teeth, "But I need you to leave with Edwin first." Chase nodded once more, "Alright, Atticus, I'll go with Edwin." Atticus kneeled down and embraced the boy, holding him tight before releasing him, "I'll see you later, Chase." he said, jogging out of the clearing, towards Haven, before he could hear Chase, before Chase could see the single tear rolling down his cheek.

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The lantern sitting upon the desk was lit, a small wavering flame throwing shadows across the room. A man sat upon an wooden oak chair, the lantern illuminating one side of his face. He had a scar running down one side of his haggard face, and bags underneath his eyes.

Many tomes laid about the room, thrown open. Multiple papers were stacked neatly on the desk, his eyes moving coarsely across the page. He put the paper down, and rubbed his eyes. There was a knock upon the door, thrice it sounded. The man called out, his voice sounding tired, “Enter!”

The door opened, the oiled hinges allowing it to swing open with no noise, and an armoured knight walked in, his visor lifted up. His intelligent blue eyes shone forth, not literally, of course.
He took a knee, “My lord, the sanctuary of Haven for the magical folk has been found, and attacked. But the boy escaped, Chase was escorted out the time while our soldiers were occupied with Atticus.” The knight swallowed nervously, “We wounded Atticus quite badly, but he managed to evade us as well. We believe one of our order has betrayed us, and gave them warning.”

The man, the king, stared vehemently at the knight. He spoke is naught but a whisper, “You mean to say you let the child, a mere child, to escape? Do you know what capabilities he has? He knows the heathen abilities of magic, and they must be eradicated.” The man slammed his fist on the desk, the sudden noise causing the knight to jump suddenly, he continued, “Leave this room now, and find the boy before it’s too late. Do not let him escape to the kingdom of Allinor, they are heathens. Your punishment will be discussed later.”

The knight hurriedly turned back and closed the door behind him. His footsteps can be heard hurriedly walking away. The man, the king, rubbed his eyes, exhaustion starting to claim him. He took a sheet of paper, and a pen and quill. He started writing, ”My dearest Ellen…”

[Oda noh Nobunaga]

Takusato City | Along the Nishikaido - Main Western road of the Empire

The rain was falling hard, its impact making a loud prattle on the roof of the small inn. The bar and sitting area was full of farmers, traders, and local soldiers. An old man who kept bobbing his head carried a tray of sake around, refilling a cup there and a cup here. A group of local ruffians in the back especially kept their cups empty, consuming large amounts of sake with each passing hour. The old bar owner was unhappy with it, but being a lowly peasant could do nothing about them without causing trouble; especially during these recent, dark days.

The old man returned to the counter where a young woman sat with a small keg of sake. “Yumi-chan, fill up these bottles again please,” the old man asked. He set the tray on the counter, and the young woman took each bottle, putting it under the keg and letting more sake run into each. “Those men in the back are being too loud grandfather,” said the young woman. She was wearing a plain yellow kimono with a blue sash, along with a blue ribbon in her long, black sable hair.

“I know dear, I know; but there is little I can do. They are soldiers employed by Dozan, and they protect the village,” replied the old man, knowing that they pillage the village itself more often than protecting it. He took the tray and went back into the crowd. Another loud burst of drunken laughter came from the back.

Yumi sighed and turned back to the window where she had been looking out into the rain. Suddenly the sound of falling rain increased, as the door of the inn opened. Yumi turned and saw a man in a gray kimono, a pair of swords in his sash, a large backpack on his back, and a conical bamboo hat hiding his face standing there. Rain was dripping off his at in rivulets. He raised the edge of his face and a huge smile and a single, friendly eye hit Yumi.

Yumi got up from her seat and went to the doorway, she bowed to the stranger, “Welcome to the Green Leaf Inn, sir,” she said. She looked up and saw that the man had put down his pack and taken off his hat. His hair was long and a bit unkempt, but neatly tied back; his face was smooth and long. He had a proud look in his dark eye. He looked to be about mid 20s. Then Yumi noticed the state of his clothes and the swords tucked into his belt sash. ‘A Ronin!’ she thought to herself. He bent down and set down his hat next to his pack.

“Arigato jo-chan,” the strange man said. He put his things next to the door, then took off his dirty sandals and stepped up into the bar area. “I would like a small table if it’s not too much trouble,” he said, still smiling at Yumi. Yumi simply nodded and led him to one of the only vacant tables, near the loud group of soldiers. The stranger simply whistled and smiled as he sat. “Wow but aren’t you as pretty as a flower.” Yumi blushed furiously, caught unawares, but before she could reply her grandfather appeared.

Yumi’s grandfather stepped forward. “Ah, young man, what may I offer you? And I hope you will be able to pay the bill.” The old man had not missed the state of the young man’s clothes. The young man simply smiled and nodded to the old man.

“Green tea and yes,” the man said. He laid down a copper coin, which the old man hurriedly collected and scurried off to get the young man’s order. Yumi set a cup and tray on the table in front of the ronin and then bowed, and backed away to the center of the room. A few minutes later the old man came back with a small tea pot that had a long stream of steam coming out of it. “Here you are sir,” he said, he pored a little of the green liquid into the cup then set the tea pot on the table. “May I get you anything else?”

“Hai, three rice balls please,” said the ronin, he took his cup and drank deeply from it. He sighed as he brought it down. He smiled when he noticed the old man still sitting there with a small grin of his own. The ronin took out two more copper coins and gave them to the old man. The old man bowed and smiled, then left to fetch the food. The ronin began quietly sipping his tea and observing the other customers. Many of the farmers who had been seated left; many were throwing hard looks at either the rowdy soldiers or at himself, most likely because he was a stranger. Yumi just sat and paid close attention to the ronin. She was curious about him. The ronin grinned big when he caught her staring and she turned away blushing.

“Hey! Girl! Why do you stare at a filthy good-for-nothing, when you could have a real man!?” one of the soldiers half-shouted from his seat. He was tall with dark browned skin and a full black beard. He was stood, drunkenly swaying slightly, over to Yumi. The smell of alcohol reeked from his mouth as he bent down and put his face next to Yumi’s.

“Please sir, I was not staring, and please go back to your table,” she said, then bowed. The man turned to the ronin in anger.

“What is it with you filthy ronin?! Trying to steal a meal?! Drinking that filthy green swill they try to pass off as tea?! I should kill you for just being here!” he shouted at the ronin. Several of his fellow samurai friends cheered him on and waved their cups of sake around. Yumi kept her head bowed. The ronin continued to sip his tea as if did not noticing the extremely rude soldier. This seemed to make the soldier even angrier. Yumi’s grandfather came back bearing a tray with three rice balls on it. He began to set the tray down onto the ronin’s table when suddenly the drunken soldier knocked the tray of food to the floor, and the old man along with it.

“What’s this!? Trying to steal food? That’s a crime around here you know? Isn’t that right?” The man asked and turned to his friends.

“Yea!”

“Course it is!”

“Kill him!”

They yelled a series of slurred encouragement. The ronin sipped his tea once more then set his cup down. He looked up at the soldier for the first time. “I would ask why you are acting like the rear end of an ass in front of the young lady, but what’s the point?” he asked in a calm voice.

The soldier’s eyes widened in shock at being so insulted and he shouted at him. “It’s you who are being rude, not showing respect to a real soldier of the Myudo Clan!”

The ronin shook his head.

“You have no honor and are a fool. You should go home and sleep off the alcohol,” said the ronin, who stood and turned his back on the soldier, heading for the exit of the inn. The soldier, enraged, drew his sword. The other customers in the inn shouted and screamed, seeing a fight about to take place; when suddenly the ronin turned.

No one in the inn remembers the ronin having drawn his sword but, within a heart's beat, the ronin was standing with arm and sword outstretched. The drunken soldier simply stood there, a blank look on his face. He fell backwards. When he hit the floor his head rolled off and blood began to slowly seep from the body, staining the floor.

A hushed silence sat over the inn. He ronin stood erect and swiped his sword smartly to the side, flinging the blood off his sword making it clean once again. Sheathing it, he turned to the old man who was holding Yumi. He bowed apologetically to the old man.

“I am sorry for having disturbed your inn, sir, but this man caused his own death. I gave him fair warning but he drew his sword first.”

The ronin stood and then walked back to the doorway, picking up one of the fallen rice balls as he did so. He slipped into his sandals and put the backpack on, then set his bamboo hat on his head. Bowing once more to the people, who remained motionless, he turned and stepped back into the rain with a sigh.

Narita Masaki had finally found a nice little inn with a beautiful little waitress and what happens? Some buffoon ruins it for him. He sighed again and padded on through the rain. He had another few villages to pass through before he arrived in Nara-Kyo.

"Oi! Ronin-san! Oi! Matte-onegaishimasu! Hold!"

Konishi turned and found a portly looking fellow in a black-silk kimono huffing behind jogging up to him. The man kept his head shaved and a scar ran down his left cheek, a silk eye-patch covering his left eye. A servant of his ran up, following with an umbrella to protect from the rain.

"My name is Kuromega Niji, though everyone calls me Black-Eye," the man introduced himself. "I'm a merchant from the capitol, about to make a trip down to the barbarian lands to the south."

"Yes? And what does this have to do with me?" asked Konishi.

"I'm looking for extra guards here in Takusato before moving on," smiled Black Eye. "Would you be interested? I'll pay you half a koban -- a sword as skilled as yours is worth that much I think -- for the trip down. And if I make a nice profit, I'll give you another half koban on the return. Food and a place to sleep is free of course."

Narita thought about it for a moment, considering the options, then smiled back. "When do we leave?"

"Tomorrow. We're heading to a place called Buzuruk by the barbarians down south."


Nara-Kyo, Capital of the Yamato Empire


The city of Nara-Kyo is the largest city in the Empire, spanning along both sides of the Maeda River that fed into the great inland ocean and thence out to the great sea beyond. The roads were of packed earth, carefully maintained by the citizens of the city so that they were were as like stone-cobbled streets. Each street had been laid out into a grid pattern that expanded outwards such that even a complete stranger could, if given directions, find their way throughout it's great size easily enough. The outer reaches of the city were occupied by the lowest of the servants and peasants that worked the fields beyond the city. As one moved closer to the center, the wealth and majesty of the architecture grew -- until one reached the palace district.

A great moat, fifty-paces wide and sided within smooth stone, was cut between the city and the palace district. The Jodo river filled the moat. Four bridges crossed over this moat, guarded by watchful ashigaru, dressed in colors devoted to the Miyoshi Clan. Each bridge connected to an island, further separated again by other, smaller, fortified islands which surrounded the largest, central island, to which only a single bridge was connected. Here was the ancestral winter palace of the Imperial Family. The various smaller, outlying islands of stone which separated the main palace area from the outer elements of the palace district were filled with homes of the elite nobility and those hereditary servants that served the court. The inner roads and bridges within the palace district were patrolled by groups of samurai, armed with bows, spears, and swords. Messengers were routinely halted, their passes checked before allowed to carry on. Only those bearing written passes from a noble of the Third Rank could walk freely through the palace district, and only when given invitation by a member of the Second Rank, could one enter the inner palace.

The wind was blowing westwards, coolly from the ocean. Sitting in a watch tower above the last bridge that led into the inner palace, eyes closed and enjoying the breeze, sat an unassuming figure. Dressed in the finest silk kimono and wearing the two swords of a samurai, he might have passed for any such guard -- except for the dragon crest that was born on either shoulder of his kimono's mantle. Only members of the Imperial Family were allowed to bear that symbol - upon pain of death.

Minowara Sudara no Kami, as his official full name and title went, seeped into the wind as it blew past. He felt it brush his exposed face and hands and willed it into his being, feeling the ocean's salt and cleanliness fill him. With controlled breathing he carried the sensation throughout his being. Where it passed his muscles relaxed and felt renewed. With a longer outward breath he released it, and felt his inner being feeling more pure. He opened his eyes and smiled.

The tower door flipped upwards from the floor, revealing one of his attendants, Jozen. The man, also wearing a formal silk kimono, but bearing his own family crest, stepped up the ladder and then dropped to his left knee while placing his right hand forward to the floor, thumb stretched outwards. He bowed as a warrior bowed to his liege lord.

"Minowara-dono, I am sorry to disturb you, but you wished to be told the moment that a message arrived from Misaki-san."

Sudara nodded. "It is quite alright, Jozen-san. Thank you for alerting me. Has the message arrived at the palace district?"

"It has arrived at the palace district," replied Jozen. Both knew that Misaki, however strange his personality might sometimes be, would never appear before Sudara before having cleansed himself, washed, and changed into his proper attire -- though Sudara would have been willing to pay a few dozen koban to see what would happen if the palace district guards ever saw him tramping around in his ronin disguise. However, since it was a messenger, it would likely be one of Misaki's shinobi. They'd go into an apoplectic fit of rage, most likely, he thought, thinking of the guards.

"Excellent," said Sudara, standing up. Jozen immediately backed away and opened the trapdoor leading below, bowing to Sudara. "Please summon the messenger at the Hour of the Boar. I'll speak to him then."

"Hai, Minowara-dono."


Sudara left his usual haunt and returned to the beautifully decorated halls of the inner palace. Nobles dressed in the finest silk kimonos that money could buy walked slowly, stylistically through it's halls, moving about on various errands and business. Though the organs of government were located in the city, only the Ministry of the Imperial Household was located here within the inner palace. The current Minister was a cousin to the current Imperial Chancellor, Fujiwara-no-Tadazane of the infamous Fujiwara noble family. Such civil servants that were of the fourth rank or lower, scrupulously moved to the side of the hall and bowed as Sudara passed, their special headdress hats nearly touching the red-lacquered floor. Those of the Third Rank, merely bowed at the waist, showing politeness to the head of the Imperial Guard.

Eventually he reached the East Grand Audience Chamber where the Emperor usually sat in court during the summer months. The West chamber went unused except for special occasions or ceremonies. Outside it's gold-painted shoji doors, two of Sudara's hatamoto warriors knelt to either side. Each bore only their short swords, a box-quiver of arrows, and a large yumi nearly twice their height. Both bowed their heads, right hands pressed forwards, to their master as he approached.

Appearing like a ghoul or kami from the shadows of a nearby pillar a court noble appeared and neatly dipped his head in respect to Sudara. Sudara immediately stopped and bowed the bare minimum of formality at the waist.

"You're arrival seems to be quite fortuitous, Guard Commander," said the courtier. "I was about to have a messenger sent for you."

"I have some business to discuss with his Royal Highness," replied Sudara, his eyes narrowing slightly at the Imperial Minister of the Right, Fujiwara-no-Michinaga. Too many of this family possess power in court.

"I am afraid that all appointments have already been made for the day, Guard Commander," replied Michinaga, smiling outwardly. "But perhaps, if it is urgent, I might bring your message before his Royal Highness? You are asked by the Minister of Justice to attend to a matter in his ministry. I believe it is regarding a warrior family dispute."

"I don't wish to burden you with an imposition," replied Sudara, also smiling and speaking just as politely. Manners dictated every word, etiquette every action. Without either, the world would always be in chaos, neh? "The Minister of the Right is hardly one to act as a mere messenger."

"Please, Guard Commander, it is never a burden to serve the needs of his Royal Highness -- nor help a friend such as yourself. Yes, I am happy to help a friend."

"Friends mustn't burden one another -- what a terrible friend would do such a thing!? -- thank you, but no. I will simply seek audience with his Royal Highness at a different time," said Sudara, finally reaching the point in the conversation where he could politely refuse and break off the conversation.

"Very well, Guard Commander. Please seek out my attendants in the South Chamber. I'm sure they will have a slot of time open for you to come tomorrow, or perhaps even the day after that."

"You are too kind, Minister Fujiwara-dono," said Sudara. He bowed again, at the waist, and turned on his heels. His men, the guards at the door, bowed again as he left, their faces blank and eyes starring into the void -- seeing everything, but seeing nothing. Sudara headed for the Ministry of Justice, silently gnashing his teeth.

[Achesia]

Blue Market Square, Atlas, Kingdom of Achesia

It was a pollution of the senses as the droves of subjects mulled about the the largest of the three town markets in the capital of Atlas. Goods from all over the kingdom and even beyond were being peddled by loud and sometimes galling merchants who would stand upon their boxes and cry out to the passing crowd as they gallantly attempted to earn their profit on anything from crops to trinkets from strange lands. The market was a place of happening within Atlas, only the best information gatherers could be found here as they spilled over gossip from lands afar and trade stories with foreign men of a thousand different persuasions.

The air about the market would be filled with pleasant aromas like perfumes from the far north only then to be purified by the odor of fish brought in that morning as it sat rotting and unsold. As your nose was burning of mixing toxins and your eyes weary of the bright colors of the merchants clothing, it was only natural that even above the chanting and marketing of the common traders that a loud horn blast would deafen you further. The loud calls of the golden trumpets would silence the market even on the busiests of days, and as the last of the merchants took heed to the announcement to be had, the Royal crier would take to the top of the stone pedestal that stood center of the square.

"Hear ye, hear ye, can thee hear me?" A stout man balanced himself atop the raised stone dressed in the regal uniform of the Royal House, a black and violet tunic blazoned with the crest of Achesia.

"We hear thee!!" A common fishwife called back to the aloft crier.

Taking little heed to any response, the crier only turned his nose and cleared his throat while unraveling a scroll on which was written the royal decree from the top of the hill, the Royal Castle and Seat of the Kingdom of Achesia, the Aeon Keep. At the bottom of the yellowed parchment was the red wax seal featuring a lion's head and crossed axes, the sigil of House Daevous and Queen Alexandria.

"As celebration of the summer's harvest and the coming autumn, her majesty Queen Alexandria Maria Daevous has decreed that a Royal Tourney should be held, seven days hence on the tourney grounds of the great city of Atlas. All those knights and aspiring warriors who wish to prove their martial skill in the joust or melee, shall register in six days at the grounds to earn a spot in the lists." The squat man shriveled his face as he continued to read down the parchment. "This celibration shall be open to all of her majesty's' subjects and be a great celebration to the Kingdom and it's people."

The crowd nodded and smiled their approval as they listened to the announcement of such an event. The last tournament earlier in the spring was of popular appeal to many of the common folk, and their regard for the queen's recognition of the common folk was high. Warriors and knights from all of the land would rush to take part in such an event, for those warriors who proved themselves stood to earn a title as a knight, and knights would compete to earn favor in the young beautiful queens eye.

One such knight stood looking over the crowd from atop a balcony that looked over the square. The echoing voice of the crier bounced off all the walls of the buildings as it reached his ears.

"Seems like I have a busy few days ahead of myself." He grinned at a woman who stood behind him. The woman was older than he, but not old by any standard. She clearly dressed as a servant of the Knight whose luxurious tunic of red velvet was a picture of wealth a d status. She sat down a tray of food on a table that sat atop the balcony. The rich interior of the estate a glimpse into the life of a wealthy knight.

"You would ill your fellow knights in front of their queen? They surely would lose face." Her accent was strong, something eastern that did not jive with the local tongue.

"It is only destiny that they should fall, that they should break." He clenched his fist as he watched the crowd return to their business. He had little time before the tourney would begin, and he would need to make arrangements to prepare such an impression that even the Queen could not turn an eye to his class. Sitting down at the table he smiled up to his servant woman, running his hands down the fabric of his trousers he observed the platter of fruits from the Lowlands. He had dark brown hair and green eyes, his light olive skin tone a feature of his frequent outdoor lifestyle and the hint of brown atop his dark locks a kiss from the sun’s rays.


Biting into an apple he looked over his servant once more. She was from a far away land she would tell him, a place where few would bother venturing to. But Sir Jon wondered why, as if all of the women from this land looked like Kano did that more did not try. His eyes followed up her long smooth legs of procyclin that rose perfectly into her the seam of her servant dress that clearly constructed and cut in such a way that it was more for the pleasure of the eyes of those beings served than her own comfort.


It was a welcome distraction from the weight that he bore. He had a promise to keep, an ambition to quench, and a legacy to fulfil. Upon the death of his knight father he made a vow that in his care the House of Requient, a humble House of Landed Knights, would rise to greatness in his stewardship. Sir Jon Requient would ensure that his House's legacy stood only to ascend to legend in his care, his ancestors would bow to the greatness he will shine on their name.

Deep Within the Winding Halls, Aeon Keep, Atlas, Kingdom of Achesia

The sound of wet smacks reverberated through the air and echoed along the stone walls of the ancient corridor of the seat of the KIngdom of Achesia. The Aeon Keep was a massive fortress that sat at the mouth of the river Achesia and had an ever watchful eye over the city of Atlas below it. It was a wonder that the world did not hear the echoing and continuing oscillations of moist affection as they continued in a not so rhythmic fashion. This was met with a soft murmurs of approval and satisfaction as they fluctuate in occurrence and intensity.

Pressed against the wall, a young woman cooed, her eyes shut tight and red hair spread along the grains of the stone wall behind her. Her freckled face contorted and quacked as she breathed heavily under the strain of aggressive bliss that worked its way up and down her soft white neck. The soft lips and wet kisses chilled her to the core as she felt the passion along her throat and down into something deeper within her.


Working her way up and down this euphoric redhead neck was another girl, this one of blonde hair with delicate tanned skin. She pressed her partner against the wall as she smothered her radiant white skin with kisses, a tender spot that one did not let just anyone into. The redhead’s neck was a icy white and was a stark contrast to her fire red hair. And as she tingling sensation intensified, her steely eyes opened provided an even greater light to her complexion and appearance as a heavenly visage of beauty.

"I.. have to go soon Joslynn." The redhead managed to state between sharp breaths as the other girl pursued her inner pleasures. She felt Joslynn’s hand running down the skirt of her white and blue trimmed gown. Soon she quivered as she felt a slight tug, but knew she had business more important than her own pleasure to attend to. Taking her own hands, she explored the thick blonde hair of the girl pressing against her as she tried to lift herself from the stone wall with the other. Squirming it was everything she could do to rip herself away from something that she herself did not want to leave, letting the soft pink lips of the girl plant a few more pecks on her peak of her throat just below the jaw.


"Josylinn!" She exclaimed, knowing she had to shake them both back into reality. The icy skinned woman's chest heaved as she adjusted the bosom of her gown to more modest levels than she had allowed for her friend.

"I'm sorry your majesty..." Joslynn took her head from the other girl's neck, her bright blue eyes and flowing blonde hair now easily visible. "I just couldnt..." She ran her hand around the outer impression redhead’s breast on her gown. "...help myself." Her eye wandering deeper into the body of her freckled friend.

Holding Joslynn’s arms, her steel eyes flickered as she herself took a long drink of the visual senses before her. The young handmaiden, dressed in a lilac gown of fine silks, was just as much of a beautiful sight as she. The two unabashedly savored for the next taste of each other when and where they could find it. Leaning in, her red hair pouring over her shoulders, she locked her lips around Joslynn's circling the warm plumpness of her affection as she held her' face close to her own.

It was then that from around the corner foot steps crept from the shadows of silence, and a large man of older age appeared clad in a fine tunic and cloak crested with jewelry that was befitting a lord. He stood watching the two girls embrace each other without notice of his presence before he finally took his fist to his mouth to clear his throat in the politest way possible.

"My queen." He waited for the last suckling sound of kissing lips to pass as the girls separated themselves for a final time. Both were out of breath, still holding each other at the arms as they turned to notice him. Joslynn immediately stepped back, curtseying as was proper of a lady in such circumstances.

"Lord Koud." Her voice was calm but with a sense of bashfulness.

The redheaded and ice skinned girl was less in a hurry to exhibit courtesy, instead wiping her lips and taking one last look at Joslynn who stood all prim and proper like with hands folded in front of her. It of course was her own prerogative to exhibit any such courtesy on her own time, as she was in fact the queen.

Lord Koud, a saged old man of slight greyness among the short hair and thick beard bowed before his Queen, a girl who was not but a quarter of his own age. However being a faithful servant he knew his place was always as the Queen's most faithful advisor.

"Good Morning." The queen said, taking up the sides of her skirt as she dipped slightly at the knees before her faithful subject.

"Excuse my intrusion." He slyly smiled as he looked to the Queen's handmaiden, who only moments before had been pressing the queen in such a dominant manner against the stone wall. "The members of the Royal Court have assembled, and await your presence at your will your grace." He nodded his head.

Queen Alexandria Maria Daevous was a young ruler of a powerful trade KIngdom in the southern extent of the Reach. Having inherited such a crown from a distant relative just a few short years ago, Alexandria was still adjusting to the pressures of life as the symbol of strength and leadership among her people. Though her skill with speechcraft and that of immense charm had helped her along her way, one of her biggest strengths as a queen was also potentially one of her biggest weaknesses... her beauty.

The flowing red hair, porcelain skin, freckled cheeks, hourglass figure, and ample bosom of the Queen had attracted much attention from suitors from all across Erosis since she ascended to the throne of Atlas. These features while served to inspire great loyalty, also presented a key vulnerability with Alexandira, who was a young girl that could be manipulated in ways that she could not even understand. That is why Lord Koud, the Chief Advisor to the Queen planted Joslynn at her side, knowing the blonde girl of modest birth's persuasion for certain pleasures of the flesh.


This had worked well as he had just observed from the affectionate embrace he found the two in just moments ago. It was a proper distraction for a young girl such as the Queen to be occupied in a sexual nature with one who could not “complicate” the lineage of the Royal Family. This was at least until he could determine a proper suitor for the Queen, though he had a feeling Alexandria felt as if she could rule the Kingdom of Achesia forever on her own merits.

Queen Alexandria swept her red locks behind her ear, preparing to follow Lord Koud into the throne room, but just prior she found herself stepping over to Joslynn once more to give the now skittish and surprised girl a kiss on the cheek.

"Good luck my Queen." She said now less bashful than before, watching the form of her queen and lover stroll away about her duties as head of the beautiful river Kingdom that she had lived all her life.

It was a short walk from the location of her love making to where the rear entrance to the throne room was located. A few Knights of her own guard stood sentinel over this entrance as she approached to have audience with her people, something she found just as exhilarating and rewarding as making love to her handmaiden. A servant approached her just before she was to enter, a golden crown of noticeable wealth and grandeur was held in his arms atop a cushion. Taking it from him, she smiled and nodded her thanks before placing the badge of her office atop her scarlet hair. Looking to her advisor Lord Koud, she smiled to him as she did every day since she ascended to such position. It was a smile she once gave her now deceased father, a smile of confidence and hope as the two entered the vast throne room of the Aeon Keep.

"Now rise for her majesty Queen Alexandria of House Daevous, Queen of the Kingdom of Achesia, and Warden of the Great Achesian River, Defender of Atlas." The crier called out as she stepped into the large stone room. The menacing arch ways hung nearly a hundred feet above her head as she walked to her throne, and the many nobles who gathered to have audience with their liege looked with wonder on the beautiful monarch they all shared.

Placing herself atop the red pillowed seat that was carved ornately from an oak that grew for a hundred years along the Achesian's banks, Alexandria folded her hands atop her lap and waited for the first order of business to be called. Lord Koud would read from each item that was to be reviewed by her that day, though she felt that she was just as much of an audience to this as any of her subjects who now stood in front of her watching the proceedings. Her advisors would handle most of these items, or the entire court would erupt in discussion to which finally her advisors would present her options in which to proceed. It was fairly boring from the young ruler’s perspective, but she would not dare look the slightest bit disinterested with any of the points that were being made.


She tried her best to listen to Lord Koud orate for minutes on end about the ethics of irrigating crops between estates, but she instead resorted to her usual game of people watching. Alexandria would often look out over the crowd before her and try to notice any one new among her court. Occasionally some noble would have traveled from a distant part of her land, but it typically did not show any drastic influxes of newcomers. A queen must always know her subjects, she had convinced herself. And soon her eyes met with someone who she knew she wanted to know more about.

Somewhere near the back of the crowd of court members stood a tall dark haired man, about the same age as she. He wore a rich looking tunic that was of violet color, and black trousers that ran into the thick riding boots that a knight would often wear to ride a war horse. His status as a knight of course was further given away by the longsword strapped to his belt. His hand was resting on the ivory pommel of the blade as he intently listened to Lord Koud's lecturing.

Alexandria had always dreamt of marrying a knight back in the days before she was a queen. Something about such fantasy of course still stirred inside of her, and though she had several hundred potential suitors of all ranks and noble title offer themselves to her, this knight stood out among them. His tunic was emblazoned with a white bird of prey, and his eyes were a bright green that he soon met with her own gaze. Startled that he had noticed her leering, she frantically tried to look away and uninterested. But Jon Requient had seen her eyes meet his, and he smiled brightly at the Queen, a smile so bright that it made her icy cheeks blush nearly as dark a shade of red as her hair.

"Your majesty?...." Lord Koud interrupted her daydream as she quickly looked from the smiling knight with the white Bird of Prey sigil, to her chief advisor who sounded impatient.

"Yes, Lord Koud." She tried to play the whole thing of as if she had been listening.

"Of course your thoughts on the matter of the letter?" Lord Koud continued.

"I completely agree Lord Koud, your advice is wise." She smiled as the crowd nodded. Alexandria had obviously said something right as she crowd responded positively to what she had said. But she could see in Lord Koud's eyes that there would be a lecture in store for her later that night about the importance of state business and her role in it. But there was something she could not get off her mind as the court continued again without her input... That knight, who was he. Surely the name Jon Requient was not known yet to the Queen, but her curiosity would be quenched as she called over with a wave of the hand to one of her other handmaidens. In silent whispers from the queen's mouth to the girl’s ears, she simply ordered her to find out about the knight whom had smiled at her, find out who the knight and the white bird was.

Of course later that evening she indeed received a lecturing on state business from her chief advisor. But it was a shorter one than usual as she simply explained she had felt distracted as of late. Lord Koud instead of continuing on, simply explained to her the contents of the letter they had received from The Lordship of the Northwind and one Lord Edmyn Blackbanks. And like the trusted advisor he was, he already had a draft of the response written up for Alexandria, only needing her wax seal before being sent on its way.

At Court, the Aeon Keep, Atlas, Kingdom of Achesia-

The list had continued for some time as Queen Alexandira twirled her red hair while leaning against the wooden arm of her throne. Droning on for some time her Steward was orating about the finances needed to conduct much needed repairs on the cities cobblestone streets, a strenuous conversation indeed as he argued with a landed knight whom had lived in Atlas for some time about the best ways to fund such an expedition. It was beginning to ware on the young queen who could barely hold her attention to such tedious matters. She could even tell that most of the court felt the same way as some of the ladies began to fan themselves furiously as they huffed and puffed over how long they had been standing. Perhaps, the Queen thought, that this was Lord Koud's way of ending court early so that he may take his afternoon's nap, boring everyone to death.

Fluttering her hand once more to her handmaiden, she waited for the young adolescent brunette girl to rush over with her goblet of fresh Summerset wine, a gift from King Christoffer of Summerset as a token of peace. Before taking the silver goblet she admired the quaint beauty of Addalynn, one of her most studious handmaidens. The wine as she sipped it felt smooth along her throat, and she had quite enjoyed the warm feeling that it brought to her fingertips. The tingling that ran along her arms and into her head and drowned out some of the boredom she was experiencing. Taking another few sips she scanned the crowd once more for her handsome smiling knight from before. Perhaps she had scared him away by staring or her informants had failed to be subtle in any way. Regardless she thought it strange that he would leave so suddenly, but maybe he had knightly things to attend to in preparation for the tourney she soon was to hold. It was but a few short days away when noble warriors, knights, and lords would fight and joust before her for the entertainment of the small folk. It was something she had always found to be supremely interesting, even if it was a bit violent for her taste. Yet even in the most violent parts of such grueling sport she could not help but be fixated at the climax of a lance, or the fall of a mace upon a breastplate.

Her daydreaming was once more shattered as an announcement came from the opposite side of the throne room, a guard announcing the entrance of an official delegation of some sort, perhaps they would excite her more than the last few…

A Week Later, At The Tournament Grounds, Atlas, Kingdom of Achesa

Within the city walls on the north bank of the mighty Achesian river the buildings and houses parted along a large field that on most days was nothing more than an empty patch of dirt and grass, but today was a kaleidoscope of tents and pavilions. This cloth city was erected over the past several days as travelers both baseborn and noble alike traveled to the capital to enjoy one of the greatest spectacles within the Kingdom, the Grand Tourney of Atlas. Warriors would trek from all the way in the fingers to the north to participate in this display of strength and martial prowess. Knights would come clad in their finest armor seeking to joust their way to a rich purse for their victories and men-at-arms prepared to put it all on the line to rise to something greater. Whether and Lord's son or a peasant boy took to the field of the Grand Tourney Grounds, they each would face their own reckoning. But there was infact glory to be had in this crucible.

At the center of this field was a finely erected grand stand of red fabrics that sported banners of the Royal House of Daevous at each peak its canopy. It sat around a walled arena in which most of the events of the tourney were to take place. Jousting, Single Combat, and the Melee could all be held in this circular battlefield, all the while at the very top of the grandstand Queen Alexandria Daevous could watch. Each warrior soon pitted against his Achesian brother, in her name, for her honor.

It had only been a few days since Theitmar had said it was ok for her to leave her chambers where she had been resting under his close supervision due to a sickness she had contracted. Atumble on the steps after the excitement with some diplomats had left her weak and unsettled, but it was nothing that a few good portions and a couple days in bed could not resolve. However she could still feel her court mage's gaze on her pale white skin as he kept a close eye on the Queen. The over zealous mage had made her promise that during the tournament she would not over exert herself. Instead she was to try to relax and enjoy the fanfare of her people wash over the exposition she had given them.

She propped herself onto her arm as she lay on a long red velvet couch that was heavily shaded. She enjoyed the cool breeze of the palm leaf that lapped air over her, it was refreshing in light of the warm air that was coming from the ocean beyond. Alexandria pulled up the hem of her long golden dress to let a bit of her leg feel the breeze, she did not have many concerns about being immodest as far up as she was. Only her handmaiden Joselynn stood at risk of straying a look up the Queen's thigh. However she wondered if her knight guards who stood vigilant over their ruler ever chanced a look at her, even though she imagined it would make them fight for her even harder.

Just below the Queen's grandstand two warriors walked into the arena from opposite sides. They were wearing modest armor of leather and cloth, clearly peasants or veteran levi's seeking glory. The first dozen or so shows were an appetizer to the greater feast of knightly combat, featuring up and coming warriors who had proven themselves to fight before he queen, but not hold a knightly title.

Both men marched to the center of the field, turning to face the Queen as they knelt with humbly bowed heads.

A third man stood in the arena, but much closer to the edge of the wooden walls that encircled the fighting grounds. Clad in a fine tunic of red and yellow and a cap of similar color. He stood pompously with his chin up and shoulders back while the royal trumpeters sounded the beginning of the tournament proper.

"Hear ye, hear ye, can thee hear me?" The crier said nasally.

"Aye we hear ye, gett'on wit it!" A plump peasant wearing a stained jerkin shouted back, he was standing in a crowd of subjects to the right of the Queen's grand stand, all of them waiting for the first blow to be swung.

Grunting his distaste for the lowly heckler, the crier continued even louder. "Queen Alexandria of the House of Daevous, Queen of Achesia, Warden of the Achesian River, Master of the Riverguard of Atlas, Ruler of the Cascades, and protector of the Realm, long may she reign..."

The crowd cheered for their Queen as the crier listed out her titles. Alexandria stood up to let her people see that she was in good health, many had prayed that she would recover in full, and she wanted to assure them that she had. She smiled as she waved to the crowd that had assembled to witness the series of fights that would occur for the next week and a half, humbled by how many chanted well wishes and praise at her name.

Below the crier cleared his throat again, frustrated he had been interrupted. "Yes.. long may she reign..." he again was paused as more applause broke out, but quickly he attempted to continue. "The Queen has decreed that today shall mark in celebration of our grand Kingdom, a tournament in the people's name, to celebrate the strength of Achesia. Today we have before you two warriors who have come seeking glory... and lucky for you, shall seek that glory in single-combat for all to see!” He motioned to the two warriors who still knelt.

"It is in your honor my queen that I shall fight today!" They each chanted the standard salute to the ruler of Achessia. Standing up they faced each other, one with a blunted sword and buckler and the other a club and shield, waiting for the order to begin.

Alexandria held herself by the wooden rails of her stand as she looked out over the crowd. They all hung on bated breath waiting for her to begin the tournament.

"Let the tourney begin!" She yelled as much as her strength let her. And with that the first swings of blade and club were made as the two warriors began their fight till the last man standing, all the whole the roar of the crowd washed out the clank of steel.

Alexandria brushed her hand along the front of her clavicle while watching the two men sweat and bleed for the sake of their glory. She did not think she would ever understand the lengths a man would go for such things.

"My queen, you should sit and rest. I fear if you stand too long now your humors will become unbalanced." Thietmar stepped forward behind the Queen as he stole a glance at her bare back, the golden seam of her dress only beginning at her shoulder sockets and lower back dimples.

"Yes..." She said in a weary tone as she turned towards her couch once more. Thietmar extended his hand to help her back to the cushions but she waved him away, she had to do it on her own if she was to convince her subjects that she was well.

Soon a hand maiden walked up a set of wooden stairs and between the two knights that stood guard. Dressed in a lilac doublet with a long brown braid looped over her shoulder she stood silently until Alexandria acknowledged her.

"Felicity." She said as beckoned the handmaiden to come to her. The quiet and visibly timid girl of no more than fourteen walked forward and sat on the couch with her queen before accepting a large hug from Alexandria.

"What is it you need Felicity?" Alexandria kept her arms around Felicity as she waited for a reply.

"Your majesty, an ambassador from a distant land has arrived and wishes to speak with you." Felicity said softly into Alexandria's ear as she snuck a peek at the continued fighting below. "Would you like me to retrieve them for you?" She said eagerly.

Alexandria smiled as she brushed a strand of hair from Felicity’s forehead. "No hun, stay here and keep me company." The Queen said gently. "Sur Surez, please bring up our guest."

A Few Days Hence, Tourney Grounds, Atlas, Kingdom of Achesia

The flurry of activity during the harvest tournament of Atlas had cast a certain weariness over the city as the constant theater and battles played on through the week. Queen Alexandria herself felt a certain type of weariness as the persistent and lengthy diplomatic visits had sapped her energy for such an affair as a tournament. As the lower levels of competition between the men-at-arms and the sell swords wrapped up, a new level of knightly combat was underway with a flurry of colors and banners representing all parts of her kingdom. Knights from across Achesia entered the lists to unseat their rival knights as they barrel down on each other atop prized war-steeds.

Typically she would enjoy this affair with Felicity, who particularly enjoyed watching such a spectacle, however since the fight a few days hence in which her "champion" Austin was knocked unconscious, she had confined herself to the tower where Alexandria last heard her sobbing. Though she was unsure as to the present condition of Austin, the boy whom Felicity was so astrewn with, Alexandria hardly felt that such a warrior of low birth was worth a noble-lady's lamenting. But she did not pretend to understand the woe's of a young handmaiden. Though only a few years ago she was on the same level as Felicity, the short time she has spent as Queen of the Kingdom of Achesia has aged her perception of the world greatly.

As the trumpets sounded, the Queen sighed as it was finally the deciding tilt in the tournament, the two knights the finalists of the whole competition, and the final event in the tournament overall. Alexandria was happy that this affair was coming to ahead, but she of course had to go through another round of over confident knights asking for the Queen's favor.

She had yet to give any of these dashing anointed warriors a token of her affection, a small green ribbon that was tied to the end of her red hair, and she did not intend to give it to anyone. She found that as the Queen it was best not to let a prideful knight get ahead of himself by getting bragging rights that any sort of affection had been bestowed upon him by her. Instead she would wave her hand and pass them along as they tipped their lances to her, snubbing each and every brightly colored rooster that clucked by on his queerly clad horse.

As she lay to her side along her couch, overlooking the arena that had been transformed into a jousting list, she parted with the final moments of this grand tournament and looked forward to a few days of rest that she was due after such a exbasteraitng week. Trumpets blared louder as the knights prepared to trot into the arena. The first of the two finalists was a tall knight, glad in a checkered black and yellow with the sigil of a lion emblazoned on his shield. His lance was striped in the same livery as his surcoat and his helm was an apothic black that struck a certain part of Alexandria's psyche that she was not warm with.

The crier announced him as one Sur Benot Junderson, a household knight of House Avondale, the bannermen of Queen Alexandria. She was not familiar with the knight but heard he was one to drink in excess, not a quality that she cared for in a position which one is supposed to act the righteous warrior. Like all knights he rode atop his thoroughbred with a certain gravitas that exuded a sense of high self worth, often beyond what they should.

"Will one of these finalists finally carry the Queen's favor in this last tilt?" Joselyn bantered as she sat next to the queen, the handmaiden keeping her body behind that of Alexandria's as she spoke close into her ear.

Hmph'ing Alexandria turned to look at her companion's eyes which were as usual full of levity and sarcasm. She had not seen her for some time as she often kept Joselynn away from state visits. It was a matter of dignity as she did not want to unpurposefully drop clues that there was more going on between the two girls.

"Sur Junderson carries himself high... higher than he should." Alexandria's lips turned to one side as she stared at the iris of her handmaiden.

Joselynn smiled, looking past the Queen as the trumpets and criers declared the next contestant in the final bout of the tourney.

"And how about this knight of violet I see entering? I hear he has a special knack for catching queens as they loose their feet." Joselynn nodded her head towards the arena. That is when the trumpets blared and the crier announced the second finalist of the joust.

Alexandria looked down to the sands of the arena as a knight in violet enameled armor, a plum of regal purple atop his helm, and a white bird of prey emblazoned on his shield dashed out with his steed to the field, his horse rearing as he held his lance high. Alexandria immediately recognized the dashing knight, it was Sur Jon Requient, the knight who brought the fugitive elves to justice, and the knight that caught her when she fell at the steps of her tower. As he led his horse around the arena, arousing the crowd to cheer for him, Joselynn looked knowingly at the queen.

"Your grace?" She smiled as Alexandria seemed lost in the violet of the knight's armor. Fixated on Jon she recalled when she faded to black in his arms, but soon shook herself out of the trance as she looked away and to her handmaiden. She must had missed the rest of his tilts, for the fluttering feeling she felt now had not happened yet this tourney.

"It's of no consequence. Just another leal knight of my Kingdom." She tried to play the whole thing off, but soon Joselynn let a smirk climb across her face.

The blonde leaned in to the Queen's ear, brushing Alexandria's red hair away from her ear as she ran her fingers down the back of her neck. "Should I be jealous?"

"Hardly." Alexandria leaned forward and away as she soon watched both knights approach, lining up side by side as they traditionally tipped their long lances to the queen's perch.

"My queen, I ask of thee thy favor!" Sur Junderson said in a cold brutish way that felt more a recital.

Alexandria simply waved her hand, the typical response that she had been giving these past few weeks to similar requests. But soon Sur Jon stepped his horse to the side, taking one hand to remove his helm, letting his dark locks out from under their violet covering, his eyes meeting those of the Queen as he smiled. Tipping his lance with a single arm which was a feat of strength by itself, he looked directly to his queen and calmly requested the same of her.

"My queen, I wish thy favor to see me forth to victory." His arm only trembled slightly as he held the heavy lance forward. He held his head high as he waited for a response.

It was at this time Alexandria did something she did not expect herself to even do, and equally surprised the crowd. Reaching behind her back, she began to untie the green ribbon from her red hair, the collective breath of the subjects looking on was held as she took the strip of fabric in question and tied it around Sur Jon's lance.

"You have my favor." She spoke aloud for all to hear, pulling the ends of the ribbon into a bow. She did not know what came across her, but the spell that Sur Jon cast over her with his eyes seemed to compel such a un-queen like reaction from her, but rather a action of a young girl taking over.

Sur Jon did not seem surprised by it, but rather smiled charmingly as he pulled back the lance. Soon remounting his helm atop his shoulder he bowed his head to the queen, and then to his opponent who by the posture of his shoulders and the way in which he gripped the reigns seemed to be annoyed at Jon's luck.

"Noble knights, take your sides." The crier yelled out as both Sur Junderson and Sur Requient totted along the list, the crowd cheering out the name of their favorite knight as they both turned to face the opposite end. Sur Jon's horse brayed as he gripped the lance tight under his shoulder, holding his shield firmly with the other arm as he focused his eyes on the black and yellow checkered pattern. Out of the corner of his eye he waited for the signal, a stable boy holding a red flag.

As the boy raised the flag Sur Jon tightened the grip on the reigns, and as it dropped signaling the joust to begin, Jon kicked his horse into action sending it bolting down the list towards his opponent who returned it in the same. Alexandria usually turned her head at this moment as part of disinterest and a wish to not witness the final product of such brutal speeds and lances. But this tilt in particular she couldn't look away from, she could not look away from Sur Jon who shot down the sands of arena like lightening.

It would only take a mere few moments for both knight s to meet, and Alexandria could do nothing but blink, hoping that her favor had won the day for Sur Jon when she opened her eyes. Just as they met with a violent clash, she closed her eyes tight, leaving them in darkness for as long as she dare before the sounds below and the jeers of the crowd subsided. As she opened them to see the outcome, she saw Sur Junderson in the dirt, prostrate under his horse as Sur Jon galloped down the stands, the crowd throwing flowers and cheering his name, all the while the Queen's green ribbon tied rk his lance.

"Perhaps I should be jealous." Joselynn giggled as she watched the Queen stare. The Queen never stared at a knight like this, it was something Lord Koud always taught her was unqueenly to do.

Alexandria took little note of the passing comment, only waiting for Jon as he threw off his helm, and met her gaze, raising the ribbon clad lance over his head in triumph... not the tournament was finally done.

Atlas, Aeon Keep, Throne Room

The torches were dim as the night flared the moon risen high above the city and the Aeon Keep. It was late to be in the throne room, a certain chill fell upon it at this hour as Felicity tended the hearth nearest to the throne. The few handmaidens that were awake in the throne room with the queen huddled close to conserve their natural heat, but the Queen sat apart, still gracefully perched on the Aeon throne, her evening gown hardly made for warmth as her bare white legs jutted from under the seam. She waited hands folded in her lap, staring at the empty hall and the large oaken door opposite her. She thought it strange she would honor such a request so late at night, but something of the tourney champion had her curious… and tantalized.

Joselynn, Felicity, Savanna, and Faith watched their young Queen, and friend, as she contently sat her thrown in the bitter air. She was acting strangely to them, usually above such attempts at charm from young men. They knew their queen to carry herself in such a regal manner that attempts at wooing here were almost conical. But they knew, something was different this time, the way she tied her ribbon around his lance, the look she gave him as he galloped across the arena, and the look she was giving the door as she waited his arrival at such a late hour.

Joselynn of all of the handmaidens knew that Alexandria was smitten with the young knight Jon Requient. Something she had thought was reserved to her and their tossels in bed at late hours. But she knew better than to figure that the Queen would always be her's to deeply kiss and frolic across, she knew that one day a mighty knight would come about to tip his lance to her. She only hoped that there was room enough for her in her mind, though she knew that she could never be a mighty knight to lance the Queen's spirits.

The oaken doors finally opened after what seemed to be a whole night of waiting. Stepping proudly in Sur Jon Requient clad in violet surcoat and cape made his way towards the throne. To his side was the court crier, a humble old man with a bellowing voice, but one that he could make surprisingly soft at times. As they approached he spoke, not in a loud announcement meant for a crowded hall, but rather a more intimate inflection.

"Your grace, Sur Jon of House Requient." He bowed his bald dome and sunk away. Leaving the Queen to her conversation with the young knight clad in violet. The two guards keeping an ever watchful eye on the knight as she bent his knee to the young Queen.

As he sunk down, he nearly could see the bottoms of Alexandria's plump thighs, the dress she wore hardly concealing of the soft flesh around her long legs. He smiled up to the red haired beauty his eyes meeting her steely gaze before addressing the reason he called an audience.

"My queen..."
"I trust..."

The Queen and Sur Jon each spoke at the same time, interrupting the both of them as a few of the handmaidens giggled. Both stunned as to the sudden interruption they both caused, Sur Jon yielded the first word to his liege.

"I... I trust you have reason to call on your queen so late? And to refuse the champion's purse, no doubt in favor of such an audience." She watched the knight knelt before her, admiring the tone of his arms and legs as they each quivered with tension from the constant kneeling.

"My queen, I have come to return something you have given me... something I am hardly worthy of." Sur Jon said as he stood up, producing from under his cloak a bouquet of violet roses tied together with the very green ribbon she had give him as her favor during the last tilt of the tourney. Both of the knightly guards flinched as he produced the assortment of flowers, startled that it could be a weapon.

"You would return my favor?" Queen Alexandria stepped down from her throne, walking a few steps forward to retrieve the flowers. As she bent down her bosom pressed together and filled the collar of her dress. Sur Jon dared only a casual glance as he handed the roses to her, watching her form rise again as she stood to smell their sweet aroma.

"In return for another." He stated boldly, returning to a knee, looking up to Alexandria.

"As if taking up the Queen's evening is not favor enough?" She said coyly. But none the less she was curious as she caught his gaze at her chest.

"Take me into your service... I pledge my sword, and life to you my Queen." He said, unsheathing his sword, the guards startled once more. But he simply brought it forward, resting it in his palms before lowering it to the Queen's feet.

Surprised, Alexandria was not quite sure what to say. Yes she has had many similar offers, but like many aspects this one was different, he was different.

"Why may I ask?" She stepped to the side, looking at the dark hair as it reflected in the shining steel of his sword in front of him.

"Because you are beautiful my queen... and worthy..." His words were like silver as he once again returned to gaze upon all of her, taking each inch of pale radiant skin into account.

Taken aback, Alexandria turned quickly around to reflect on his offer, unknowing offering him another view at the regal nature of her body.

It was some moments before she turned around, looking back at the subject of many waking and slumbering dreams she had since the night that he caught her in his arms. Something between herself ached as she looked at the top of his scruffy black hair. Descending the stone steps that led to her throne, Alexandria knelt in front of Jon, picking up his sword with both hands. It was heavier than the ceremonial sword that was crafted for her, and she almost struggled to bring it upward enough to then lay in on Jon's shoulder.

"Sur Jon of House Requeint, knight of the Kingdom of Achesia. I do here by name you the Queen's champion, and part of my guard." Her words were soft but sure as she switched the flat of the blade over to his other shoulder. Over her face crept a small smile, just as his eyes came to meet hers again. Her hand maidens speechless as they did not expect the queen to let such a young man so close to her in court, nor did Alexandria expect it herself. But she seemed to be lost in their gaze, Alexandria watching as the green of his eyes flickered in the torch light. She was queen... she was allowed to be selfish... she was allowed to have this... Though for now he was nothing more than something she could look at and admire. She dare not cave to more desire than that.

[TheHolyLandsOfGanos]

Tales from the Holy Land
Chapter I:For many false prophets have gone out into the world

The Lower District, The Holy City of Taonas...

The lower district of the city of Taonas was primarily dominated by the harbor where ships docked and set sail almost daily. It was where the poorer of the city lived or begged and the perfect place to get lost if you were looking to do so. Justicar Alvinar knew most of these streets like the back of his hand, every nook and every cranny. There were very few places for anyone to hide when he was walking the streets. The sun had long since set in the city of Taonas, in fact the dawn was not far from approaching. Alvinar had been working late into the night on his most recent case and now found himself at the stoop of the Eamonts. The leather in his glove tightened as he balled his fist and knocked against the front door of the home. It took a few moments before the door finally opened, it was Velanna Eamont, the lady of the home. "Justicar Alvinar, what a pleasant surprise" she stated with a forced smile, "what can I do for you this evening?"

"Mrs. Eamont, I wonder is your husband Andrus at home and may I speak with him" the Justicar asked, his voice calm and sturdy. The woman at the door seemed distracted, she looked back into the house before looking back out at the street and stoop. "Of course Justicar, please come in" she stated finally, opening the door wide and allow Alvinar in the modest home. There wasn't much to see in the Eamont home, it was like most of the houses on the block. Enough furnishings to get buy as well as food. The Eamonts were much, the wife sowed clothes and her husband worked at the docks as most men in the district did. They were relatively young but had not conceived any children, though rumors were that wasn't from not trying. Why Ganos had not bless the home with child was a mystery to most, but not to all.

"Justicar Alvinar this is certainly an occasion, please come in and sit" Andrus stated as he came from the back room of the home. "We don't have much but...Velanna, please make some tea." Andrus requested as he began dusting off a chair for the Justicar. "Please don't go out of your way for me" Alvinar stated as he took the seat, "I don't have long to stay as it is. I was just coming by to see if you could answer some questions for me Andrus?"

"Of course, of course, how can I help?"Andrus asked.

"I was wondering if you'd ever spoken with a man from the harbor named Talon" Alvinar stated.

"I know of the man yes, but I've never spoken with him directly" stated Andrus as his wife served tea. "Has he gotten himself into trouble or something?"

"Indeed" said Alvinar as he sipped the tea. "It seems he's been disseminating some heretic material among some of the men in the harbor"

At that moment a small crash came from across the room, Alvinar and Andrus looked over to see Velanna hovering over a broken teapot on the from. "Velanna are you ok" stated Andrus as he got up to see to his wife. "Yes...oh yes I am so sorry just the thought of heresy in the harbor" Velanna stated, her voice uneasy, "its just very disturbing."

"Indeed" stated Alvinar who got up slowly, "heresy is certainly something to be worried over Mrs. Eamont. I did not mean to scare you however, only to ask you Mr. Eamont if Talon had ever disseminated any of this material to you?"

"To me, no" Andrus stated, holding his wife's hand tightly. "No I would not and were I to have seen anything, I would have surely reported it"

"Of course, of course" Alvinar stated. "I take it you and Velanna were at evening prostration tonight yes?"

"We never miss a prostration Justicar Alvinar" Velanna stated firmly, "we go to morning, noon, and evening prostration at the Sanctuary down the street."

"Of course" Alvinar stated, "please pardon my questing I am just checking everyone from the harbor. Please I have taken enough of your time tonight." Alvinar bowed slightly before turning toward the door. "Please allow the blessing of the prophet be upon y...." the Justicar stopped mid sentence. While turning towards the door he caught it in the corner of his eye. It was faint but clear enough through the slightest of cracks. The brief flicker of a candle, the low dim of light coming from beyond the cupboard. Andrus noticed where the Justicar's gaze had been affixed and began to move toward the cupboard. Alvinar turned and raised his hand, sending the Eamonts flying across the room and pinning them against the wall, not able to move. The Justicar turned and made his way to the cupboard, examined it for a moment and them pushed against his side, it moved open much in the same way as a door. Inside was a small room, with a small bench, a table with a few books and a flickering candle. The Justicar grabbed one of the book and turned back to the couple in the other room.

"So you don't know Talon Mr. Eamont" Alvinar stated holding up the book.

"You don't understand" Velanna pleaded, "we did everything for Ganos and yet he continued to keep a child from us? Why, why should we be punished?"

"You should be punished for your have forsaken him, the one true prophet" Alvinar stated, "Seems you will be coming with me tonight....."

Courtyard of the Grand Cathedral, Taonas...

Hundreds began congregating into the courtyard of the Grand Cathedral as the sun rose high into the sky, by its position it was about noon. Several pyres had been built , many of which had stakes at their center. One was already burning, the fuel for the fire was mostly paper. Books, scrolls, and other materials all of which the Justicars had confiscated the night or so before. When the courtyard was almost full they were parade out for all the city to see. Barely covered in rages, the bodies carrying all the signs of no sleep and torture, the chains clicked and clanked as they walked towards the pyres. The crowd erupted in boos and hisses, rotten food also emerged from the rows and rows of people, hitting several in the criminals in the face, the chest and the back. Justicars pulled on the chains, drawing them closer and then one by one they affixed the heretics to the stakes.

A moment later the boos and the hisses from the crowd turned to cheers as everyone's attention turned to the balcony of the Grand Cathedral. She walked with grace as she descended the stairs and moved towards the stone railing. Her white robes flowed like water in the creek, her veil thick as snow, and her crown sparkled like a northern star. The cheering went on for what seemed like hours as the Supreme Nagus stood there, waving to the crowds and allowing all to declare their love. When at last she rose her two hands and a hush flowed over the crowd until a pin could be heard within the courtyard and everyone waited, anticipating the words of their spiritual mother.

"Glorious is the Prophet Ganos, who didst lead us to salvation, who did fight the evil that would doom us to mortal sin. Did the defeat the old spirits and cast them out? And now, with the strength of our will, he calls us to prevail against the corruption of all unbelievers." the Supreme Nagus stated, her voice echoing throughout the whole of the courtyard. "I ask now, Guide us Ganos on the Path so that we may triumph over the enemy of our salvation, and be with you in the End of Ends on the planes of Aether." The crowd again roared, chanting almost in unison as they prostrated towards the Supreme Nagus Hallowed be Ganos, Prophet of the Holy Word. Chanting again and again they repeated as the Supreme Nagus watch on as they prostrated until at last she rose her hands again and they silenced.

"Justicar Alvinar, holy agent of the Word" she said, looking towards the pyres. "Declare now the crimes of these children and let us judge those for the sins of their soul and that of man's temporal law."

"Most holy mother of the word, guardian of the prophecies,conduit of the voice, Supreme Nagus I come to you today a humbled servant of the Word" Alvinar stated, kneeling towards the direction of the balcony. "These men and women have committed mortal sin. They are apostates and heretics, their homes filled with parchments and books of sin. They have strayed from the path of Word, the path which Ganos has show us. They are unrepentant of these actions and unwavering in their belief of false prophets and beliefs. There can be no salvation for their souls for they embrace the wilderness for which they seek to wander."

Everything was quiet, so quiet it seemed as if you could hear one's own heartbeat until at last the silence was shattered as the Holy Mother spoke. Her voice seemingly so pure, like a gentle sonnet, a harmonious song. "It is written in the scrolls of Ganos that we must make ourselves one with the Path. For it is this journey that will lead us to eternity. However, it is also written in the scrolls that we must leave not the smallest of pebbles, for any hindrance will slow the people's progress towards ascendancy. For Ganos ascended to a higher plan and so shall we but this path is for only those willing to sacrifice everything for it. For those that are not, there is nothing left and thus, we must do only that which is most kind. Justicar Alvinar, holy agent of the Word, return these people back to the nothing from which all life is created so that in return new life should be born of this world, life that can receive the word and begin the path."

Alvinar gave only a nod before rising to his feet and turning back towards the pyres. Other Justicars took their position as well and with one wave of their hands, each started a fire at the feet of their victims. The crowds cheered as they watched the heretics burned at the stake, even the Holy Mother watched for a while before turning back towards the doors from which she had emerged. What followed her was a small entourage of servants and aides. Among them were ministers of the Holy Mother's Kuria to which she confided her fears.

"That was the fourth burning this week" she stated with great sadness in her voice. "The heresy that plagues our people seems to be growing larger and more problematic by the day. We must stop it, root it out like any weed in a garden, and prevent it from spreading any further."

"All reports seem to indicate that these forbidden materials are coming from the ports" stated Cassian, a high member of the Kuria. "No doubt being freely shared by the heretic merchants that come to trade."

"Very well then" the Supreme Nagus stated firmly, "tell the Justicars I am giving them full authority to search each ship that comes to port, throughout the whole realm, for any contraband material and seizing it for as long as the merchant ships are docked. This materials may only be returned upon the day of the merchants departure."

"Very well Holy Mother" Cassian stated, "they may work for now but..."

"Cassian we have spoken on this matter before" the Supreme Nagus interrupted, her voice irritated. "I am not willing to send our a crusade against heretics abroad, however heretical these nations may be. There is so much we know so little about and Ganos brought his original disciples here for its remoteness so that we could dwell in peace away from the great deceivers. No, we will root out heresy here, and leave the greater sinners of the world to rot in their sloth for now so long as it never breaches our lands."

"You are forever wise, most gracious holy mother."

[Oda noh Nobunaga]

Tokusato City | Shipping Piers


The storm broke in the early hours before dawn. By the time the sun rose up from across the horizon, Narita had risen from his small sleeping pallet inside of a rustic old sailor's house by the wharf. Black-Eye the merchant had brought him there after Narita had agreed to serve as a bodyguard, going so far as to provide his new employee with a bottle of sake and two rice balls. After quickly eating his first meal in two days, Narita had fallen to sleep quickly thanks to the hot sake. With the dawn light flooding through the white paper window screen, he struggled to rise and stretch. Morning was never one of his favorite times, especially when he woke up alone and not next to some beauty he'd spent the previous night with.

A knock came at the door. "Sumimasen! Hijitaka-sama! I'm here to fetch you to Black-Eye-sama's ship now!"

"Hai, hai. I'll be down in a short time."

Narita straightened his kimono, made sure his money string was secure -- he only had about fifteen copper mon left -- and picked up his long sword. The katana scabbard was looking a little worn, much to Narita's regret. He made a mental note to see about getting one of Black-Eye's people to find him a new scabbard.

Outside on the already busy streets of Tokusato a servant wearing a simple cotton yukata bowed low to Narita as he stepped outside. Early birds were moving around the streets. Hawkers and sellers were setting up their stalls and hundreds of servants moved about on various early morning tasks. Over his shoulder Narita eyed Tokusato Castle itself. The fortress sat upon the only high ground, a large hill, to be encountered traveling north for the next hundred leagues. To his right, the wharf opened out to a small river that bled out into the great, dark blue sea.

"Let's be off then," Narita said to himself, tucking his arms into his kimono to ward off the morning chill and plodding on.

"Binkusu-no sake-wo, todoke-ni yuku-yo...Umikaze kimakase namimakaseee..." Narita began to sing as he walked along the road. Bink's Sake was one of his favourite drinking songs, or at least he thought it was. He could never find a decent shamisen in the southern parts of Izu province, which Narita supposed couldn't be helped. They weren't within the capital or home province of Nihon after all. He couldn't expect civilization to extend all the way out from the capitol to here.

Narita kept humming to himself for a while, keeping a strong pace on the road. The servant who had greeted him following a few paces behind. Eventually he'd walked for about a mile up the wharf when he felt something wrong. The early morning crowd had tapered off and the street was now nearly deserted. He took off his bamboo hat and fiddled with his pack, looking up at the slowly clearing sky. Narita smiled. It looked like it was going to be a nice morning.

The five ragged-looking men armed with swords, clubs, and one with a bow who stepped out from the alley ways to either side of the road also seemed to share the same opinion.

Narita sighed. "Oi, gentlemen, isn't it a nice morning to be alive?"

"Won't be for you! Black-Eye may have decided to make you guard captain but I don't agree! We're only getting paid a measly fifty mon each!" the one with the bow demanded. The other five formed a semi-circle around Narita, weapons ready. Narita concentrated on the ring leader.

"I really don't think you want to make a fight out of this. It's just a little money," reasoned Narita. "Not worth dying over."

"You're the one who will be doing the dying," one of the men to his left yelled. The others shouted their agreement.

"What a bother," sighed Narita. He slipped his pack off and threw it on the ground, letting his bamboo hat fall next to it. None of the men got any closer.

"Throw the pack to me," demanded the ring leader. "Black Eye said he paid you in advance."

"No," smiled Narita. He crouched and put his hand on the hilt of his katana. The movement was fast enough that it surprised the would-be-bandits and they all flinched back slightly. The ring leader stretched the string back further, the arrow head pointing threateningly at Narita's chest.

"Do it or else I'll put an arrow through your heart!" shouted the ring leader. "Don't think I won't!"

"I think you won't," smiled Narita, spreading his feet ever so slightly.

"Get him!" screamed the ring leader in frustration.

The other four charged. Narita waited a split second before drawing his sword in a wide arc. He caught two of the bandit's swords, deflecting them out. He dropped to one knee while spinning, sending another slash around and opened a 2-foot cut into the bellies of the two bandits wielding clubs. They cried out in surprise and pain, watching their intestines spill onto the muddy ground before they died. The two swordsmen jumped back, swords held rigidly in a guard position, fear clearly plastered over their pale faces. Narita whipped his short sword out and threw it behind him. He'd heard the sloshing of foot steps and was rewarded for his throw with the sound of metal entering flesh. One of the sword wielders fell to the ground with the short sword sticking in his chest.

That's when he heard the bow twang. Without really seeing it Narita spun around and slashed his sword through the air, cutting the arrow clean in two. The remaining bandits stared at him, amazed and in shock. Narita smiled. "Glad both of you are in front of me..." Konishi sheathed his sword and took another stance.

"Ittō-Ryū Iai..." Single Sword-style Release Narita grasped the hilt ever so slightly. "Shishi Sonson." Lion's Song

In the blink of an eye Narita had moved forward ten feet and stood behind the remaining two bandits, his back turned to them. He stood straight and whipped his sword through the air, cleansing it of blood before replacing it in a quick movement to it's sheath. The two bandits fell dead, three cuts each in their chests and faces.

Narita sighed and walked over to his pack and bamboo hat. He was pissed to see that one of the bandits had bled on the hat. "Where am I going to find a new one around here!?" he mockingly wailed. He turned and kicked the offending corpse in the head. He wiped the blood off and put his gear back on. He turned to face the road ahead again when he stopped.

Narita smiled and spoke aloud. "Come along, Shinta-kun, we're keeping Master Black-Eye waiting." The servant, who'd been frozen with shock, suddenly came out of his reverie and nodded, hurriedly following the sword master.

*_*_*_*_*

Black Eye's Ship, The Akaryuu


Black Eye watched over the loading of the last bit of cargo into the hold of his ship, the Akaryuu. It was the pride of his merchant fleet, of which he had fifteen ships. Usually he would have preferred to stay in his mansion back in Nara-kyo, enjoying the delights of the capitol, however every three years he made the trip down to Telosman personally. He was the only merchant who made the trip down there, most others preferring to search north into the wild lands or travel over-land to the stunted-creatures, known as the dwarves. As such, his journey to Telosman always netted him a nice profit off luxurious and unique merchandise that he could sell at five times the amount he'd bought it for at the southern barbarian markets.

He glanced up from his abacus and ink desk to see his new guard captain coming up the gang-plank and onto the ship.

"Morning, Master Black-Eye," greeted the ronin.

"Narita-kaicho," nodded Black Eye. "I hear that you've saved me 250 mon this morning."

Narita had the shame to at least blush and smile. "Indeed. It seems some of the riffraff you hired took a disliking to me. I tried to talk them down, but they refused."

"Oh well, it's to be expected with some of these Eastern ruffians," nodded Black Eye, turning to where he had twenty of his newly hired guards standing around the starboard side of the ship. Most carried swords or yari. Five of them carried bows. They all looked a little sullenly at Konishi, but didn't appear to be hostile. Black Eye had warned them of what happened to the drunk soldier at the Green Leaf Inn the previous night. One of the new comers believed he'd heard of the new kaicho, and that settled them down nicely.

"Anyway, Shinta will show you to your quarters. We'll be setting sail in an hour with the tide at its strongest."

"How long until we reach Buzuluk?" asked Konishi.

"It's called Buzuruk. Remember that, sometimes the southern barbarians can be touchy with their names," warned Black Eye. "But it should only be about a week's sailing at the most. I plan to have the pilot bring us out further into the great ocean to take advantage of the spring winds pushing from the north."

A loud ohmm-sound carried up from below decks. Narita and Black Eye turned to watch as a black robed monk, the black marking him as a Jodo Sect, came walking onto the deck with his staff. Each step he would tap the staff into the deck, the small copper rings at the top of his staff jingling together.

"Ohmmmm...mugen-ni-bi-ze-shin...mushiki-sho-ko-mi-soku...no-jo-i-sai-ku...ko-setsu-han-nya-ha-ra-mita-shu-soku-setsu-shu watsu...ohmmm."

The monk stepped over to the main central mast of the ship and brought his staff down hard, with both hands.

"Gya-tei-gya-tei-hara-gya-tei...ha-ra-so...gya-tei-bo-ji...so-wa-kaaaa!"

With the final phrase of his protective sutra chant, the monk took out a talisman and placed it against the mast. With the power of the monks chanting the talisman pressed itself flat against the mast and stayed there even when the monk left his hand.

"Ohmmm." The monk finished and tapped his staff one last time. All of the crew and guards bowed to the monk as he turned and approached Master Black Eye.

"Thank you again, Banzan," smiled Black Eye, handing the monk a silver kuban. "I feel much better now."

"Your ship will be protected from severe storm and any sea monsters you may encounter," replied the monk, Banzan. He pocketed the silver kuban and turned to the gangplank.

"Talisman protection?" asked Narita.

"I don't like to take too many risks," said Black Eye. "Master Banzan there has protected my ships for the past ten years. I'd never sail south without one of his charms. Now go settle yourself with the guards and prepare a watch schedule. I don't want anyone filching anything from the hold."

"As you wish, Master Black Eye."

[Oda noh Nobunaga]

Black Eye's Ship, the Akaryuu | Port City of Buzuruk


It had taken almost a month to the day for the Nihonese junk to reach the port city of Buzuruk. The trip itself had been uneventful -- a fact that seemed to set Black Eye ill at ease, though Narita felt that his new employer might simply be a bit too paranoid. From what he'd gleaned from the group of thirty or more hired guards on board, Black Eye always faced a few coastal pirates that tried to make a pass at taking down the Akaryuu. Apparently though they had learned their lesson the previous years, for most every vessel that appeared on the horizon gave the junk a large birth. Narita put it down to the size of the ship itself, which was a healthy 230 paces long and 160 paces wide. A big ship might not be maneuverable, but it usually carried a large crew.

The more Narita experienced on the ship, the more Narita started to believe that Black Eye had started out as a pirate before becoming an honest merchant...if there was such a thing as an honest merchant. Even though he'd hired guards for the trip his regular crew were just as dangerous and perhaps even more cut-throat. They'd already thrown over two corpses of new hired guards who'd gotten into altercations with the crew. Narita had turned a blind eye to it and so had the Black Eye's first mate, Dogen.

The city of Buzuruk was a sight to see. The weather was hotter than in Nihon, but not as muggy -- a saving grace for which Narita was grateful for. The port itself sat at the head of a natural harbor. It's walls, dark-bricked, were squat and had broken turrets in places along the wall. It's design was unlike any Narita had never imagined. The first mile along the north-west side of where the city met the coast was a docking area for large ships. Large piers extended out from the silt beaches of the coast, some made from stone and others made of wood. As the Akaryuu passed the first guard tower at the edge of the coastal bank and entrance to the port area, one of Black Eye's crewmen in the crows nest sounded out a horn blast, loud and clear on a conk-shell. The clarion call was answered from the tower and Black Eye's crew raised up a purple silk flag -- a signal that meant a great merchant was arriving in port with a full cargo.

Only the largest births would support the Akaryuu, but that wasn't too much concern as Black Eye's crew expertly guided the ship up against an extended pier and cast the holding lines to waiting wharf workers. The sounds of a busy city metropolis roared over them. Narita eyed it and guessed that it was bigger than his home city of Nagamachi -- but it was definitely smaller than Nara-kyo, the capitol of Nihon. The bodyguard captain turned from the stern side of the ship and saw that Black Eye was already stepping down a walking plank that was lowered to the pier. Stuffing his long sword into his sash, Narita hurried to join him.

On the pier itself a well dressed man with swarthy skin -- darker than that of a Nihonese -- had presented himself and was questioning Black Eye, with whom he seemed to be familiar.

"Sobh Be kheyr, Black Eye!" the man greeted. "It is good to see you again. I hope you have a nice cargo this time."

"Sobh Be kheyr, my friend," smiled Black Eye, nodding his head. "And indeed, I have a good cargo for this year. Is the warehouse I purchased last time still standing or has it burnt down in the last three years?"

"Not at all, it's been kept clean and closed. I am told that you may begin moving your cargo by mid-day. A representative from Khagan Talgat Sanan will most likely be down here to speak with you soon."