Disclaimer: I do not own nurarihyon no mago. I only own my OCs and my story plots.
Retsu is currently 7 years old.
Belladonna
Chapter 23:
Cat and Mouse
"Out of everything and anything you could have done— Nurarihyon's granddaughter?! Really, Sōdaishō?!"
Sazae-oni could proudly say that she has seen much in her years of existence. Being a close aide to Umizatō and one of those who could travel on land, her experiences could only be double that of the average sea Ayakashi. She'd like to say that she could read her commander well enough, always managing to carry out his orders without much words exchanged, but this— she was astounded.
For centuries, they've waited with anxious energy and hope that their scruffy old commander would finally find someone to spend the rest of his life with. They need a heir to their vast territories and near countless members because no one, especially their commander, is getting any younger. Nurarihyon was well retired since the Edo period, his son taking over the clan business and then recently, his child gave him two grandchildren.
Umizatō? He's still alone, and now he's gotten himself involved in a war above the sea by following Nurarihyon's granddaughter?! The rumours had spread far and wide enough that it has even reached the denizens of the sea.
"If it is an alliance with Nurarihyon, we have nothing to say." Because let's face it, who else is a better ally for one who commands majority of the sea than the one who rules most of the land. "But his granddaughter?!"
That's where Sazae-oni draws the line.
The little girl couldn't be anywhere near double digits! How on earth could she have the same level of charisma as her grandfather to— to warrant their commander's undying loyalty?! ... Okay that's— she's stretching it but, still! What can a kid possibly possess that warrants Umizatō's respect to act as a follower?!
Her commander simply sighs quietly, little bubbles escaping his lips. He doesn't even try explaining himself. However, before his departure back to the Nura Clan with some souvenirs in tow, he decided to bring one member along with him. Sazae-oni was practically shoved forwards in the clan's haste and excitement. The messages in their eyes screaming 'go find out for us'. She huffs and gave a curt nod before taking her leave.
Whatever the case, she'd like to see with her own eyes what in the world is really going on, if nothing else.
It was the dead of the night by the time they've reached the Nura Clan's headquarters. Their mansion is alright, she supposes, a little small compared to their fortress. But then again, they don't have sea serpents the size of the mansion itself coming and going.
Reacting to the slight tilt of Umizatō's head out of habit— the Ayakashi is blind, he doesn't need to move his head to see around him, so when he does, it was for the benefit of others— Sazae-oni looks over and sees a pretty Ayakashi in a pink flowery patterned kimono amongst the other servant yōkai hurrying over to greet the newly arrived guests, their heads bowed respectfully. Her long black hair is held back by purple flowers on either side of her temple, a smile so bright it lit up her eyes, the blue hue could make even the most precious of jewels jealous.
"Welcome back, Umi-san! How was your trip?"
Sazae-oni skilfully kept out of the conversation, opting to observe her commander and how he is acting around the flower Ayakashi— there was hardly any doubt, she emits the fragrance of one. He is smiling, much to her surprise, and it wasn't the negative kind or for intimidation purposes. It was, dare she say, tender even. This was the exact moment when Sazae-oni came to a groundbreaking realisation.
Once Saki is out of earshot, heading back to the mansion to relay the great news of his safe return to Retsu-chan. In a brief lapse of control over her own strength, a slap was heard when she places her hand upon his shoulder, neat and manicured nails nearly digging in. If Umizatō felt anything, he sure didn't show it. With an unnervingly blank look, she said, "Apologies Sōdaishō, we had misjudged you."
All these time, he had been thinking about the future of their clan. She could weep in joy.
"Umi-san, you really have impeccable timing." A young lad— an Ōkami most probably, judging by the huge wolf ears sitting on his head— huffs out gruffly, half in relieve and half-harried as he came up to them.
Umizatō raises a brow in question, while Sazae-oni glances curiously between her commander and the Ōkami who dares address him so informally, lips pursed to keep her questions in. She has long learned that some things will gradually reveal themselves if she simply wait, and for an Ayakashi, they have plenty of time.
The wolf demon spreads an arm, gesturing towards the mansion. "Please, come this way. I'll briefly explain the situation at hand."
It has been three months since Umizatō has returned to sea. I did not expect to see him right at this very moment— he does have a clan to run after all, I was thinking that he would only, perhaps, make an appearance during the siege of Kyōto— and I told him as much when I entered the arrival room. Yūga is sitting off to the side, seemingly having just summarised the events that had taken place since the ancient yōkai's absence. Casting a glance to his side where an unfamiliar female Ayakashi sat, I deduced that she is one of his clan members, what with her presence here and water patterned kimono.
Her pinkish hair is long and swirly, secured into a bun atop her head with a simple gold crown-like headpiece. Sultry amber eyes framed by long lashes that looks like it could emit electricity and reddish eyeshadow, blood red lips curled into a playful smile. She has a similar body figure and clothing style as Kejōrō's. Possessing an hourglass shape and kimono that slightly hangs off her shoulders, showing off a generous bust. An Ayakashi that utilises her beauty and charms on unsuspecting human males to drag them to their watery graves, or suck their energy dry, perhaps?
Umizatō quirks a barely there wry smile in response.
"Coincidence." He says, dismissing his perfect timing as such, before tilting his head marginally, as if sensing... something? "Where is Nurari?"
It seems Yūga hasn't gotten to that part yet.
"You've just missed Ojii-chan, he left not too long ago." I relax once I realised he wasn't sensing enemies, moving to take a seat at one of the available cushions. Suzu immediately plants herself on my lap the moment I took a seat, purring softly when I pet her soft fur.
The Shikoku demons seems to have turned in for the night, holing up somewhere. After that hydrangea perfume bomb, Inugami is guaranteed be incapacitated for at least a full forty hours or so, and he'd stink of it for three days straight if Saki's calculations are accurate. The Tengu and Ōkami patrol members has further tightened the system, working hard to sniff them out, the wolves whining just a little about the god awful perfume before the trail went cold in a stream. I have also hinted at them to take note of abandoned areas especially, since there has been quite a few construction projects lately. Those are practically playgrounds for yōkai to hide.
"... I heard your older brother has stepped up. Congratulations." Umizatō says, taking a delightful sip of steaming hot tea. It seems flavoured drinks aren't particularly a common practice back at his hometown, living underwater and all. So he makes use of any opportunity given to drink them.
"Thanks." I mutter, while his aide watches Suzu with a... conflicting expression. 'Did she not like cats or was it her first time seeing one?'
"This is Sazae-oni." Umizatō finally introduces as if sensing my gaze on her. The woman immediately tears her gaze away and straightens into attention.
"A pleasure to meet your acquaintance." She dips her head in greeting and I parrot the phrase right back.
'A snail demon was it? No wonder her hairstyle resembles the shell of one.'
"How is your training coming along?" Umizatō queries. We did stop training on how to fight blind since he left, but occasionally, I still wear blindfolds to walk around the mansion when I'm not busy with work.
"If you're talking about the blindfold thing, she still walks into things on occasion." Yūga snickers as he munches on some... are those shrimp crackers? Since when did we have those?
"He wasn't asking you." I sent a scathing look at the Ōkami, Sazae-oni looking bewildered in the background. Guess she didn't know her commander had helped train me for a little while.
Umizatō, sensing more, smirks humorously. "Oh really?"
The Ōkami gleefully continues to provoke me. "One time she walked straight off the porch."
"Yūga." I warned.
Looking straight into my eyes this time, dark grey irises alight with mischief, he exaggeratedly enunciated each word. "She yelped."
He sprints out of the room with an evil cackle the moment I made a move to get up, sliding the fusuma shut behind him before my backside has barely even left the cushion seat. He sure moves fast when he wants to. I heard a stifled laugh, turning just in time to see Sazae-oni schooling her expression back into a neutral look. Umizatō on the other hand, had no such tact, an all too wide smile on his face and if I could just reach over to slap—
"Glad to know you're still putting in effort at the very least." He says placatingly and I accidentally let out a huff. His smile widens into a grin.
The fusuma slides open just then, revealing night Rikuo standing there. He looks to Umizatō for a moment, inclining his head marginally in greeting and the other nods back. Then, his red and calm gaze falls upon my form. "It's late, go to sleep. You can deal with it in the morning."
I look at him through narrowed eyes. "You as well."
The emergency general meeting has been called and the first to arrive would be by early morning. Karasu Tengu had already doubled the guards for both Rikuo and myself, and are currently making arrangements for the executives of our clan to have at least one guard by their side at all times. The old Tengu is immersing completely into his role as the head of the bodyguards division, much to Rikuo's chagrin.
Excusing myself, I retired for the day, passing by Saki who is bringing in some food from the kitchen for the weary travellers. Umizatō will be overjoyed.
I have yet to tell anyone about that sword, not wanting to cause an unnecessary uproar just yet... well, at least until the mole is dealt with. Letting out a small inward sigh, I thought, 'Might as well off the Brain at tomorrow's meeting, since he had already made the trip to me. Plus, his job to bring in the Shikoku is done, no need to give them too much of an upper hand now.'
I had expected tonight's sleep would be restless, but I was out like a light the moment I hit the bed.
Morning arrived and the Nura Clan mansion is bustling with activities in preparations of the emergency council meeting. Umizatō had brought back souvenirs from his trip back home, the famous shrimp crackers enjoyed by both humans and Ayakashi thriving beside the sea along with... a couple treasure chests.
Corals, pearls, gold, precious gems and the like, most of them being fashioned into accessories worn by the denizens of the ocean. Sazae-oni, one of his closest aide, is handing them out to the remaining female population of the main house, who had all queued up for it, chattering excitedly.
'Since when did we have so many women?' Rikuo thought, eyeing suspiciously at the line of 'females' queueing up. When they caught sight of his scrutinising gaze, they quickly looked away, snapping open their fans and holding it in such a way that their faces remain obscure.
"Are there anymore shrimp crackers left?" Retsu asks around somewhere behind with a purse of her lips. Yūga carefully waved a packet in her face, having snagged one yesterday night and his mischievous stunt was forgiven.
An nearly recovered Kurotabō informs me that Rikuo has left for school— alongside his usual and new bodyguards consisting of Tsurara, Aotabō, Kubinashi, Kejōrō and Kappa. Currently, he is only able to see vague shapes and no more than a couple feet away, colours not included. My older brother had insisted we act as normal as possible, giving the impression of remaining unfazed even with the enemies right at our doorstep. Which is... I can't say he's wrong, but...
'Wouldn't it be better to deal with the issue with just maybe a bit more caution? ...Then again, no one knows the Shikoku has in possession Rihan's murder weapon... my bad then.' It is probably a good thing I didn't tell just yet. We are fooling the Shikoku into thinking they still have their trump card hidden in plain sight, which is true, but not after this meeting.
Whispers fills the entire ground floor of the main house.
"There was an ambush on the pest control team yesterday night."
"I heard Retsu-sama halved their forces herself and that they even managed to capture an enemy!"
"As expected of our young Hime!"
The smaller yōkai chitters and chatters from upon the support beams, pretty much flooding every nook and cranny the mansion has to offer for front row seats. Servants rushes to and fro, in and out of the kitchen to the meeting room, serving the guests their refreshments.
Silently, I walk down the steps and into the inner hallways where the meeting room is located. At this time, most of the council members are already seated. Maybe I wasn't hiding my bloodlust as well as I've thought— or maybe the smaller yōkai were just that perceptive— nonetheless, the whispers fell into a eerie hush and they all hunker down when I pass by. As my destination drew nearer and the last of the servants went back to the kitchen, I readied myself.
'Kirin.'
My thoughts weren't even finished yet before an influx of foreign emotions washed over me like a tidal wave, a thin glass-like barrier separating mine from many others.
Anxiousness. Grimness. Outrage.
It wafts thickly in the air of the general meeting room. Then, something smaller, compressed and well hidden.
Hatred. Bloodlust.
My steps slowed to a halt and I glance unseeingly towards a specific point behind the fusuma doors, enlarging Honjo Masamune from its keychain size within the palm of my hand. Calmly and as quietly as possible, I tuck the sword into my obi belt and unsheathe the blade.
I realise belatedly that even if I did manage to pierce him with my weapon, this isn't Nenekirimaru— an exorcism blade— and I can't use my blue fire in my day form, thus, he won't perish.
A warm pulse of reassuring calm came from somewhere in the middle of my back, and I relax as it moves down my arm. Glancing down at my wrist, I see Kirin melting into the handle of the katana and made itself home upon the steel blade.
Tightening my grip, I aim and slide open the fusuma, willing the blade to extend.
Mitsume Yazura, head of the Three-Eyed Party, camouflages himself amongst the other council members. Observing silently, listens more than he talks, and when he is required to engage in a conversation, he is extremely careful of his words. Things are going along smoothly. Nurarihyon was out of the picture for the moment, having left without a word for whatever reason, but his granddaughter is still around. He grits his teeth, fists clenching and unclenching upon his lap.
'What are the Shikoku demons doing?!'
He gave them everything they would need. Information, a path into the heart of Ukiyoe town, a temporary hideout, the perfect timing of when the clan is still in disarray— though not as much as he would have liked— Yozusume, and even the Mao's hammer. They had such a good chance yesterday, yet they can't even take care of that little seven year old brat! Useless idiots!
He huffs inwardly. No matter, he will continue to see if there are any useful information he could gleam today. The one eyed demon is only useful for running his mouth, asking the questions he would never himself, lest he draws unwanted attention and suspicion, which is the last thing he wants. His current position gave him insight, the best view on the chessboard, he would not ruin it that easily.
He take a small gulp of unneeded breath to calm himself. Can't risk exposing his real identity. Patience is virtue, his plan is coming to fruition soon. Having to wait for over three hundred years to get his revenge on the Nura Clan for what they did had better pay off. Nura Rihan is finally dead after such a long time, his daughter will not change that good news!
'Edo should have been mine to rule. Mine. MINE! MINE!'
He hears the sound of a fusuma door being slide open suddenly. While in and of itself, the sound is nothing out of the ordinary given his location— however, it is noteworthy that it came from right behind him. The front entrance should be further up ahea—
A jab of pain accompanied with a slick sound of something cold and sharp slides mercilessly into his back. He exhaled in surprise, the sound wet to his ears, a gurgle in his throat and he caught the gleam of a katana poking out of his chest. Unconsciously, he reaches out to grab it, blood seeping through his fingers and staining the entire front of his dark coloured kimono. 'Who?'
He tries to turn around and see. One last thought running through his mind in disbelief. 'How?'
The sword bursts into a torrent of violent, vibrant blue-orange-red flames, searing and engulfing heat unlike any other, consuming his entire being hungrily liken to the ghosts of the damned. From his muffled hearing, it seems as if there are panicked yelling and a distant roar, not the flame, but something within— 'No matter. It doesn't matter, not anymore.'
Sanmoto's Brain crumbles away with a barely audible gasp. Thoughts scattering to the wind, his body burning till nothing remains. His soul returns not to Hell, nor to the cycles of reincarnation, but to the final embrace of Mother Nature herself—
Nothing.
Everyone within vicinity of Mitsume Yazura scatters.
The executives scrambles in all directions, away from the fallen Ayakashi, yelling incoherently,assuming it was an attack. Nura Clan members and bodyguards alike rounds the corner, rushing straight towards the commotion, only to be hit with a grenade of emotions that explodes upon impact— confusion, horror and surprise— when everyone saw the culprit is actually me.
Rikuo wasn't here to witness this, maybe it is a good thing.
Once Kirin's exorcism flames died down, I let out a small sigh, of relief or good riddance, I'm not entirely sure. Probably both. I glance at the miniature engraved form of the deity upon the blade and watch as he leaves the metallic part of the sword and retreats back onto my skin. The tattoo unusually warm.
Calmly stepping over the empty spot, I move towards the front. Hari Onna is still tied up, made to sit in the middle of the room under my request, shaking imperceptibly. She may not have been able to see clearly, but I highly doubt she needed her sight to know someone just got exorcised. I am not impressed. 'If she is this terrified, why join in on the attack in the first place? Did she really think we would go down that easily? An easy win without much casualties? Or perhaps... she is fearful of death?'
I walk past her towards the elevated platform, sheathing my sword and gracefully took a seat.
Casting a cursory look at the executives present, I was happy to note that Hihi is sitting right there in his usual spot, wary but otherwise unharmed. Zen-nii is there as well, a little pale as per usual but not kneeling over, and is currently doing his very best to hold a telepathic conversation with his eyes alone. 'I would love some explanations.'
"Let us begin the emergency council meeting." I announce sagely, gesturing to the empty spot amongst the row on my right. "That Ayakashi I've just executed is not Mitsume Yazura. It was an imposter that had let the Shikoku demons straight into the heart of our territories. I will explain in detail as we proceed."
Hushed mutters broke out almost immediately, and the scattered executives quickly moves back to their original seating. Questions were swallowed for the meantime, even Hitotsume was being unusually extra cooperative. Maybe their sixth sense is blaring, warning them that my patience is almost nonexistent today. ...Good for them. The guards that has rushed in here retreats out of the room, although I'm sure their ears are pressed firmly to the fusuma from the outside. Zen blinks, accepting of the situation for the meantime because if he wanted answers, he just had to listen.
"As most of you have been informed, yesterday late at night, while I was out curbing the rogue yōkai population, a certain Tanuki by the name of 'Tamazuki' from Shikoku paid an uninformed visit." I began.
"We have caught one of their members after halving their small force of thirteen, the remaining six are still on the loose. Two are identifiable by name, they are Tamazuki and Yosuzume. The third one resembles a dog demon, exactly which species, I'm not too sure. His most notable feature is that he could separate his head from his body. The fourth yōkai is a big one who is of strength type, a tad bit similar to Aotabō. The last two is small in size and their faces were obscured so none of us got a good look. However, one seems to be a water type demon for it has webbed hands, and the last one strongly resembles a stone statue. We have already circulated the wanted posters of them, so do keep an eye out and notify the main house immediately if they are spotted."
Seeing the apprehensive looks on everyone, I sigh inwardly and throw them a bone. "Any questions so far?"
Glances were exchanged, but no one moved, neither did they utter a single word. Until Daruma, one of Ojii-chan's advisors, slowly leans forward, drawing my attention.
"With all due respect, Retsu-sama. Would it not have been better to capture and interrogate the mole for information...?" The yōkai gestures to the empty spot, genuinely alarmed and confused. I don't blame him, he was probably wondering why I would allow such a goldmine of an informant go just like that. But he doesn't know what I know, the Brain will never give us anything useful. The longer he stays, the more his real body knows... and subsequently his buddy, Seimei.
"...I will not and cannot risk him escaping or get rescued later on. That is Sanmoto Gorōzaemon's brain and one of Niidaime's murderer." I said almost too quietly, and a ringing silence falls upon the room as the words slowly sinks in.
Daruma's eyes widen then narrow at that. Because my wording was different from what we've discussed previously. Instead of a mere speculation, I had just confirmed that the Hyaku Monogatari Clan is definitely involved in Rihan's murder. Those that already knew of the name I had just uttered need not be further informed, and while those who didn't, like Zen-nii, well... the last two words is more than enough for him to grasp the gist of it.
"You have found the evidence then, Retsu-sama?" Gyūki chimes in, his gaze sharpening. The other executives that were out of the loop listens intently, quietly.
I smiled mirthlessly, turning to Hari Onna now, anger simmering beneath the surface, but I kept a firm lid on it. It is simply not the time to release it. Wrong target, wrong place, wrong time. "But of course, the Tanuki was kind enough to show me yesterday too."
I don't need to turn around to comprehend Karasu Tengu's alarmed and horrified expression from his usual perch some paces behind me. Although, he might just berate me later for keeping such a vital piece of information to myself.
"It may have been eighty-three moons since I last saw it." My shoulder shook as I chuckled bitterly. "How very bold of him to assume I wouldn't recognise my father's murder weapon which had been a hair's breath from my face."
Hari Onna is actively keeping her breathing as inaudible as she could manage, a bead of cold sweat rolling down her cheek as the bloodlust surrounding her rises to a suffocating level. All executives present had their sights on her, low murmurs breaking out immediately.
"The murder weapon is with Shikoku?!"
"Did they had a hand in Niidaime's murder too?"
"That old Tanuki commander isn't stupid, neither does he have such tasteless tactics. Besides, Shikoku's power has fallen three hundred years ago."
"The Hyaku Monogatari Clan, weren't they already dealt with in the Edo period?"
"Maybe there are remnants still lurking about."
"... Wasn't Retsu-sama only... what, eight months old then?"
While some realises I remembered, others were distracted with the information on our enemies being thrown out. I raised a hand, and the room quiets down.
"The Shikoku lot is merely cannon-fodder in this case. I highly doubt any of them knew about the true nature of the sword. However, there are very good news." I smiled chillingly. "The fact that the Hyaku Monogatari Clan used another group as a puppet means that they themselves do not have the power to take the Nura Clan head on just yet. All we simply need to do... is make sure not a single one of them live for much longer."
The mole had wanted me dead, for the key words Tamazuki said yesterday were, 'I find it a shame if you were offed just like that.' However, Tamazuki had other plans, he wanted to recruit capable people, hence, did not attack to kill at the get go, that was his first mistake. The Brain had been wanting to take me out first, which is why Hihi is currently unscathed. I couldn't have asked for a better turn of events. Umizatō was out for a couple months and has returned at such great timing. The Shikoku demons had no idea yet because I took out the informant before he even heard about or could inform the Tanuki that he is back.
Daruma speaks up, expression solemn. "Even if the Shikoku demons are not in the aware, this is no mere group of misfits now. We must not treat this lightly."
"The Hyaku Monogatari Clan is still alive and gaining power as we speak. They have been creating new 'tales' all over Japan for the last few centuries, taking care to lay low within Nura Clan territories." Karasu Tengu adds with an almost frustrated look on his face, like they were cockroaches that refuses to die no matter how much eradication methods had been taken. I feel him. "They must be dealt with."
"How can that be?" An executive comments in disbelief.
"Weren't they already destroyed? So it wasn't just the work of some of their remnants?" Another queries.
"No. These tales were recently created." Karasu Tengu answers solemnly and more whispers were exchanged between the Ayakashi present.
"So then, the Hyaku Monogatari Clan is really..."
"It can't be..."
"But if there is someone who is able to create tales..."
"C-could it be that person?"
"He has been revived?! I find it hard to believe that... ..."
"Sanmoto Gorōzaemon himself is not revived." I cut in sharply, heaving a barely audible irritated sigh as the group settles down. "Revival of a being is no easy task, it would have caused a supernatural phenomenon that no one would miss within the immediate area. However, I was informed that he did split himself into many body parts before his main and huge body was taken down by Niidaime. Most likely, one of those body parts has the ability to create tales, or at the very least, they had teamed up to do so."
"I've been listening." Zen leans forward in both parts mild irritation and curiosity. "Just what the heck is that Hyaku Monogatari Clan? Don't just go on with your discussion and leave me hanging!"
An older executive harrumphs. "Ignorant youngsters..."
Zen's head immediately snaps towards him. "What did you just say, huh?!"
"Hey there now." Karasu Tengu chips in, quick to diffuse the spark before it explodes. "Well, we can't blame you, even yōkai born after the Meiji era don't know of our feud with the Hyaku Monogatari Clan. Even more so now that it has reached the generation of the third, with the increased number of factions... Oi, someone explain it to him."
Karasu Tengu must be sick of telling it so many times by now, having already told me once. The same could be said for the executives, for they are looking at each other, as if silently prompting whoever is willing to explain. Honestly, I'm also getting sick of hearing let alone talking about that clan. Tsurara isn't here, alongside some of the social recluse of my group, best handle it all in one go.
Taking a deep breath, I turn to the crane demon with an apologetic furrow of my brows. "Zen-nii, I would have to trouble you to attend a separate meeting later on. Everyone that is not aware of this clan will be attending, I will give a brief summary then."
Zen regards this with a small purse of his lips, but nods once in acceptance.
"Once we're done with this Shikoku lot, we'll have to do a mass scale wipe out on the Hyaku Monogatari Clan. Eventually." I said so with the air of how one handles tedious tasks. "Now... as for you."
I turn to our little hostage, who purses her lips in a last ditch attempt at defiance. I reach out to grab the new laptop Kyō had left behind. While Hihi is present, however, I still had the spirit stay to oversee the Ape yōkai's mansion. Just because the clan head is called over, does not mean his clan would be safe.
"Hari Onna, also known as Kagibari Onna." I read off the Wikipedia and the aforementioned demon tensed. "A female demon with extremely long hair tipped with thorn-like barbs which she uses to ensnare men. She is said to wander the roads of Ehime prefecture on the island of Shikoku."
I paused, looking up from the electronic device, noting how the female Ayakashi still kept her head down. I set the laptop to my side.
Hari Onna did not come here to 'wage war' against the Nura Clan out of her 'undying loyalty' or 'admiration' for Tamazuki. Seeing her shaking with fear in her spot before us confirms it. If anyone else is in her place, let's say, Kubinashi, they would rather seek death than reveal any semblance of weaknesses for the enemies to exploit. They would hold no fear for death nor the highly probability of torture. They will accept it wholeheartedly.
She is terrified of Tamazuki. But it would seem she has yet to realise one vital fact.
If they let you live on a whim. They can also kill you on a whim.
I don't know about her, but I had left the first chance I got. I know, I can't possibly use myself as a comparison with her because we are completely different. She had no power to escape. She couldn't just simply... disappear. Even then, there is no one and no where in Japan that will shelter her.
Her life is not particularly... important to me. I don't actually need her. I don't feel anything for her, in fact, maybe just a little bit, well almost, I almost pity her.
"Hari Onna," She flinches when I used her name. "Let's see... the reason for the fall of Shikoku's influence."
She starts shaking.
"Three hundred years ago, Matsuyama Castle, humans managed to defeat the Shikoku's Hachijuuhakki Yakō with the help of a... special sword." I smiled, gazing down at her. "Is that the same blade?"
No answer. But no answer is also an answer. If one was wrongfully sentenced, they would deny vehemently. Not that I needed her to, I've already got all the necessary evidence I could ever need.
"There aren't many special blades associated with Shikoku if you bother to do some research." The yōkai Kyōrinrin has a tendency to collect books, scrolls and old records of literature and history, even those that were passed down by oral tradition. All I had to do was simply pay one of them a visit to get all these lovely information, that or simply consult one of the ancient fossils living under the same roof as me.
"Considering how awfully confident that Tanuki was when he waltz straight into the heart of our territory with just a vanguard squad..." I trailed off. "Did you know? That blade your leader had been holding yesterday is actually a body part split from a demon that existed three hundred and fifty years ago in Edo. And every single one of you had been played by that Ayakashi."
I looked towards a particular empty spot within the row of executives on my right. "He's done plenty enough, even had the audacity to infiltrate our ranks. Things had gone swimmingly for him so far, but... it's his bad luck to have met me."
Still silence.
"I will be investigating to see if the rest of the members of the Three-Eyed Party are truly who they say they are. If they aren't... well, they will simply join him." I said with a finality to my tone, regarding the female Ayakashi with an unamused look. "I have a proposition that I'm sure you will like. I will give you shelter and protect you for as long as you need."
Almost immediately, murmurs broke out amongst the gathered demons before it was quickly hushed. Leaning forward a little more, I stared right at her, noting she still has the mind to not look up. "All you have to do... is cooperate with me."
When a couple heartbeats passed, I lean back into my seat in faux relaxation. "I don't think it's such a bad deal. After all, you are merely leaving the clutches of someone who can kill you for another, but with protection benefits."
Just then, my phone starts vibrating, informing that I have a call incoming. I check the caller and sure enough, it is Kyō the computer-dwelling spirit.
"Mobile phones are such useful little things..." I brought the little flip-phone up and showed her the device tauntingly. Surely she must have been be able to see the light emanating from the device if Kurotabō could. "You get notified immediately once the call goes through."
I accept the call, a crackle of static was heard before a familiar, hushed yet high-pitched, terrified voice transfers over the device and into my waiting ears. "Good job, I will send some members over."
Ending the call, I turn to the only ape demon within the Nura Clan and informs him in a deadly calm voice. "Hihi, the remaining Shikoku lot is currently paying your home a visit."
Hackles were raised, the room erupts into an uproar that I couldn't be bothered to manage. Taking a look at the tense female demon staring fixedly onto the tatami in front of her, I smiled eerily. "Make a choice now, Hari Onna."
I heard her draw in a breath, my eyes cold and unforgiving. "Do you want to live?"
Hari Onna finally understands why Tamazuki's informant had been so adamant that this Nura Retsu must go, apart from Nurarihyon himself for obvious reasons, even though she is still so young. She can't see due to the lingering effects from Yosuzume's technique, but she has heard everything in that meeting. That was the point, she realises eventually, it was a tactic. A mind manipulation tactic, a warning.
Nothing you do will ever escape my knowledge.
Tamazuki promises to bring Shikoku back to its former glory and head towards its golden age. With his power and charisma, they believe in him, they had hope for their future. Hari Onna, like most of the demons of Shikoku rode on that brief high of Tamazuki's oppressing Osore, ruthlessness and cunningness. They thought Shikoku finally have an ambitious and powerful heir, so they came to Kantō with intentions to triumph over the most powerful force in Eastern Japan. It will not be an easy win, but there will be a victory nonetheless. With the second commander gone and first head getting as old as he is, the grandchildren as young as they are, theoretically, the Nura Clan is at their weakest moment. It should have been a fairly easy takeover. The odds shouldn't have been as high.
It wasn't Tamazuki that is incompetent, no, he is the best they have. It's just that their opponent is very competent.
'A child.' Hari Onna thinks hysterically. A child that just barely stopped reeking of their mother's milk. A child whose age hasn't even hit double digits. A child that possesses one quarter of Nurarihyon's blood. The worst thing of all, is that she has a mind as sharp as the blade she wields.
That was no child.
Inuhōō went down with barely a fight, and he was one of their executives. Blue fire razes the ground and everything that dare stands in its warpath, turning the night so bright it was as if for one moment, she had seen the gates to the depths of hell. There was nothing she could do but watch.
They came expecting a child as their opponent.
A child so peculiar, the likes of which the Ayakashi world has never even entertained the thought of.
Instead, they provoked a vicious female demon hell-bent on protecting her home and has the power to back her up.
Tamazuki came to recruit her, heeding not the explicit warnings of their informant.
Now, that informant is dead, and so is half of their elite forces. She herself is captured, ready to be executed for any slight at any time and being played mind games.
Hari Onna feels everything crumbling away like sand. With Nura Retsu manning the Nura Clan's territory, Tamazuki's first goal of conquering the Kantō region is all but a mere piper's dream.
"Do you want to live?"
Yes, of course she wants to live. But... at what cost?
Yakushi Zen felt cold sweat bead all over his back after the meeting was adjourned. He has never witnesses an event like today before, and he is so disgusted, horrified and elated at the same time. The former two emotions being his reactions to the information he received, while the last was getting to actually see Retsu's rumoured sharp mind and perceptive nature in action firsthand. Today had been a real treat, although he is just a tad bit disappointed that Rikuo wasn't here to witness this.
Hari Onna is taken away for the meanwhile, being unable to give her answer to Retsu's ultimatum. She probably won't be able to make a decision anytime soon— it truly takes a special kind of scumbag to be able to switch sides quickly— so she was kept hostage within the main house until further notice. However, her lack of answer confirms one thing; She is not completely loyal to Tamazuki.
Reinforcements are being dispatched to Hihi's clan right now, a joint collaboration between the Tengu and Ōkami Clan members. Hihi's son, Shōei, is at school during this time of the day, so there is one less person to worry about. The Sanba Garasu alongside Yūga are the overseers for this mission, with Retsu giving out the orders before they depart.
"I don't want any casualties. Chase them out of Hihi's home, but if you see any opportunity to take any one of them down for good, go for it. But do not engage the Tanuki in a battle and no one is to touch Niidaime's murder weapon." She says explicitly, expression stern. "Tanuki aren't generally so stupid like this one, I suspect the blade clouds its handler's mind apart from being able to kill a commander level yōkai."
The reminder that the blade has managed to fatally injure Nura Rihan made the Ayakashi that were to come in contact with the weapon soon raise their guards and wariness.
"I will deal with that sword." Retsu promises, and Zen has a few alarming concerns regarding that, but he keeps quiet for now.
"Understood." The dispatch team chorused before swiftly leaving for Hihi's Clan base.
Zen watches them go, sincerely hoping that none of them would be injured by that blade. The tenseness seems to physically leave Retsu's tiny body, shoulders slumping a margin before she retreats back to her room to rest. The crane demon decides to hold in his questions till later, taking in mind to relay a disturbing news for Nurarihyon when he gets back, and follows her lead to retire to his own room.
The Three-Eyed party members should still be the real deal, it won't do for the Brain to off everyone who knows the procedures and protocols of the Nura Clan. Plus, the Tengu Clan had been patrolling diligently even before I came back. But then again, worst case scenario is that the whole of that clan's territory has been overrun by the Hyaku Monogatari yōkai, so... if I send someone over only find out that the whole group isn't even part of the Nura Clan... they would die.
'Guess I'll have to check the Three-Eyed party myself.' I sigh, opting to do this once night falls.
I weighed and considered whether if I should call Menreiki and Shizuka back from the Bakenekoya now or later. They are still at the restaurant working as my informants, but since they had been seen by the Shikoku forces... I suppose I will have the miasma butterfly stay in hiding there to monitor things, while the mask demon report back to me.
A phone call later, Menreiki is on their way back to the main house.
Glancing at the clock, I decided to cash in that afternoon nap. It's not like I can do anything right now anyway. Placing my phone beside my head so the sound would wake me should Kyō call for any sort of emergency. I snuggle up into bed and sleep came quickly, much to my relief. Using so much brain juice this morning had been taxing.
...
Yūga's puppy form was sprawled out and snoring like a log beside my study table by the time I awoke from my nap. I took it as a sign that the mission had gone as well as it could. Looking at the time, I balked. 'Three hours had passed?!'
Shaking my head, I gathered my showering supplies to take a bath, Kirin and Gyōza leaving to seek shelter in the ceramic water tank as I leave my bedroom. Once done, I went ahead in search for the other personnels that had been sent out earlier and found Kuromaru when I round the corner. My heart drops just a little on reflex before I steeled my nerves and asked for his report.
Half of Hihi's Clan was wiped out by the time reinforcements arrived to chase the enemies off. The Tengu were prepared for Yosuzume, using wind attacks at the get go to nullify her feathers. It did not take much convincing before the few Shikoku troublemakers are retreating. Apparently, Tamazuki, Yosuzume and the strength type demon were the only ones there. The other three of them was not present, one of which is the dog yōkai— which I know for sure is out of commission for a long while yet, Saki's perfume bombs are not to be underestimated— and the two smaller ones.
Hihi is fine, physically. He and his remaining clans members are cleaning up the aftermath. The situation wasn't great, but at least the damage is controlled to an extent. I pursed my lips. 'It will have to do. I've interfered quite a bit already.'
Thanking Kuromaru, I dismissed him and went back to my room. Spotting the phone by my bed, I remembered Kyō and Fūri, calling them, I told them to come back to the main house. The spirit sounded so relieved over the phone. I suppose that's about as much excitement he could take.
Casting a look out the window, I can see the telltale orange glow of the beginnings of sunset. Rikuo should be home by now.
...
Well, he just came home after a small verbal exchange with Tamazuki and his remaining peeps. On the bright side, there wasn't even a small scuffle or just plain no-warning kind of assault. So that's good. Ao and Tsurara, alongside the addition bodyguards, Kubinashi, Kejōrō and Kappa returns safely as well, sandwiching my brother right in their middle like a VIP.
We all gather around to discuss the recent happenings in a smaller meeting room further away from the guest rooms to avoid causing any disturbance or potential eavesdroppers. The ones called to this meeting are of the heads of the patrol team; Sanba Garasu, Yūga and his righthand man, Kiba. I called Zen over alongside a couple from my group, Ame, Neko, Saki, Hidama, Enenra, Kyō and Menreiki, deciding to finish informing those unaware of the Hyaku Monogatari Clan later on.
Tozen is still recuperating from his wounds, so he is unable to attend, but otherwise should function properly once recovered, or so Ippondatara said. That's one concern down. Kurotabō has recovered quite a bit and is sitting with us.
"So what did he say? Word for word?" I ask Rikuo, who looks at me as if saying how would he remember a conversation word for word. I relents, "Anything he said that stood out to you?"
He thinks for a moment, and finally replied. "He said he will gather far more fear than me. ...But I don't really understand what he means."
'Osore then. Belief is power after all.' My eyes narrow, and I ruminates the sentence in my mind. 'There's a few plausible methods. One is randomly attacking humans, causing fear and chaos. Another is...'
I raised a brow as I came to an answer, recalling something important that I've long since forgotten. It started as a chuckle, then a giggle, before it finally erupts into full out sharp laughing, startling and unnerving quite some people.
But not Yūga, he manages to get his snide comments in nonetheless. "The psycho part of her brain has just been activated."
Kiba nods sagely. "Abort mission."
Ame and Kyō looks on with extreme concern etched on their faces and I took a deep breath to calm down, I can get psycho on that Tanuki later. I shake my head. "He just had to blab. If he hadn't, I probably wouldn't have realised he was aiming for the Tochigami so soon."
The Ayakashi gathered immediately made the connection, all except for Rikuo. Karasu Tengu, knowing this, fills him in.
"The Tochigami gain strength and power through the belief of those who pray to them and visit their shrines. This power is also known as Osore, forming the backbone of the local yōkai organization. As a result, Land Gods are protected and highly prized."
"By taking out the Tochigami, the base of people's beliefs and fears will turn towards the Shikoku demons." Kuromaru explains.
"Weakening the Nura Family from the foundation..." Tosakamaru supplies further.
"Considering the Family a given, trying to control the town as well." Sasami finishes.
"Then, the attack on the executive, Hihi's Clan..." Kiba mutters with a frown, and those who just heard of this mess were rightfully alarmed.
"The attack on Hihi's Clan is most probably a distraction so the two smaller yōkai, who weren't present during that raid, could carry this out while our attention is diverted." I mused.
"Yeah, they retreated way too easily this afternoon." Yūga agrees, cutting off the panic before it escalates. "Half their Clan were wiped out before we even reached, but thankfully, we got notified as soon as it happened and reinforcements were dispatched promptly. We managed to save half and chase off the attackers."
"The Tochigami and Hihi's clan..." Rikuo mutters softly, almost despondently. Tsurara glances at him with a worried frown.
'Guess checking on the Three-Eyed Party would have to wait.' All the executives have yet to return home just yet, due to the fiasco with Hihi's Clan. So I still have some time before the Three Eyed party suspects anything happening to their 'leader'.
I turn to those of the Tengu Clan. "Do we have a map of all the Tochigami in our territories?"
"Hai, Retsu-sama." Sasami replies.
"Good, bring me it after this."
She bows. "Understood."
Turning to the small fire bird and smoke yōkai, I gave my orders. "Hidama, Enenra, I'll have to trouble you to go check on the Tochigami. I will pass you the map later, cross out which shrine has been destroyed and report back to me. I'll deal with it once you're done. Make sure no one sees you."
The two yōkai nods.
"It would be faster to assign some guards at the shrines to protect the Tochigami." Yūga muses, his dark coloured eyes flicking towards me in mild amusement. "What're you thinking?"
"... I would like them to think they have the upper hand by playing along with their plan. It won't do to have them change to plan B or whatever and loose what existing control we have." I sigh and sit up straighter. "Of course, we'll protect the Tochigami themselves, house them within the main house until the Shikoku demons are dealt with. As for the shrines, they can be rebuilt."
"... Sacrificing the shrines to keep your enemies' attacks predictable while secretly cushioning the impact and then... perhaps lay a trap they'll walk right into? Since their plan is within expectations, make use of it as much as we can... did I get that right?" Yūga smiles sharply.
"Careful, your psycho face is showing." I jabs, smiling sweetly.
He barks a laugh. "Alright! So how do you plan to milk this for all its worth?"
I hum, I haven't actually thought that far. I suppose I'll come up with a plan soon enough. "We'll get to that once Enenra and Hidama comes back with the updated report."
"For the meanwhile, make sure the patrolling members don't draw too much attention to the shrines." I gave the order, noticing that Rikuo wasn't really taking charge of this issue, or rather, he probably doesn't know how to. No matter, I gave him a front row seat as to how I work, surely he is learning the 'how to'.
"Understood." Kuromaru and Kiba chorused.
"How did the morning meeting go?" Kejōrō queries, Rikuo's bodyguards having missed the whole fiasco. Before Karasu Tengu could fill them in, I recalled something.
"Ah, that reminds me." I blink and turn to Rikuo. "Onii-chan, take two days leave from school. The situation has changed."
"Changed?" He asks, perplexed.
I was silent for a while, Karasu Tengu especially so, carefully organising my thoughts and sentence structure before I broke the news.
"Tamazuki wields a jagged and worn old blade. Three hundred years ago at Matsuyama castle, humans triumphed against the Shikoku's Hachijūhakki Yakō with that thing. Some years ago it made an appearance within Nura Clan territories... it is the exact same blade that killed Niidaime."
I plowed through before they have more of a chance to feel anything too negative and gets swallowed up in their emotions. Kubinashi's face wasn't looking too good. "That is why we will no longer be treating the Shikoku group as a mere band of misfits. Even if we have to wipe these clowns out, we will get that sword and see to it that it is destroyed."
"Although the good news is the fact that the Hyaku Monogatari Clan had to use them as a puppet means they have yet to possess the power to face us. Either or that, they're over-preparing to ensure that whatever plan they had cooked up succeeds."
Nodding to Karasu Tengu, he proceeds to summarise the morning meeting for them, starting with the death of the mole. It didn't take too long thankfully, there's really only three main points. The execution of the mole and subsequently, the plausible notion that the Three Eyed Party members are not who they say they are. The Hyaku Monogatari Clan's confirmed involvement in Niidaime's murder and finally, the blade which Tamazuki wields being the murder weapon.
Which now leaves the summary of who and what business the Hyaku Monogatari Clan has with the Nura Clan. Which I took over in explaining.
"In summary, a human merchant, named Sanmoto Gorōzaemon, wanted to monopolise 'Osore' back in the Edo period using 'The Hundred Tales' method. Basically, the rich and influential would gather around and tell haunted stories. From the hundredth tale that was told, an Ayakashi will be born." I pause to take a sip of water, feeling parched.
"What's interesting is the fact that this person just so happened to come into possession a special item named 'Hyakki Teakettle' that turns Osore into a addictive drink called the 'Conquerer's tea'. You could say he opened up a drug den to control the mindlessly rich with too much free time on their hands. Of course, the Nura Clan wouldn't tolerate a competitor right within our territories, so there were many clashes. Until Niidaime took down the clan head— who had turned himself into an Ayakashi before he died, splitting into many body parts."
"Cursed items and black magic of the sorts are rather popular back in the Edo period." Karasu Tengu supplies.
"However... making them, no, just simply handling and collecting them is no easy task. Not just anyone could do it." Kurotabō points out.
From the depths of my mind, I recall the two foreign yōkai from months ago. "Foreign imports maybe, there are so many rumours of cursed items all over the world."
"However, as there hadn't been any big incidents since Edo... either that particular business is taking extra care to steer clear of the main and organised yōkai clan territories, instead, opting to make a living within less or non-controlled areas in Japan." Yūga shakes his head.
"Perhaps," I allowed the thought, it is not outside the realm of possibility after all. "I intend to look into this once things settled down, but for now, back to topic. Any questions?"
"Just one." Rikuo says, looking right at me. "Mitsume Yazura, or rather the infiltrator... how did you know it was him?"
I smile indulgently. "I have my ways of knowing who is out for my blood within this house. If there's nothing else, we're done for now. Sasami, about that map."
"Right away, Retsu-sama." She takes her leave in search for it.
"Retsu. A word." Rikuo catches me in the second storey corridor sometime before dinner.
Casting a brief look to his brown eyes to determine the severity, inwardly noting the light chill crawling up my spine from meeting his hard gaze, I nodded towards my room. My hunch telling me that whatever he wants to say requires privacy.
The fusuma door slides close and he turns to me. "First Zen-san, then Kana-chan. How did you know something will happen?"
'Kana? Ah right, I asked for her birthday, but that was because of Shikoku. Guess I had indirectly alerted him to take note. Also— 'He said 'How did you know' not 'Did you know'. Ha, he's getting better.'
I smiled ambiguously. "Let's just say my instinct has yet to fail me."
His eyes seem to physically harden before he closes them and lets out a sigh.
"Please." He said, then softly, almost... I wouldn't say defeated—but tired, yes. "Not from you."
I felt a pinprick of pain within my heart and I kind of understood his underlying meaning.
Please no secrets, not from me.
"You really want to know?"
The look he gives me plainly says, 'Duh.'
Tentatively, I rolled up my sleeves. Sensing my intention, Kirin moves from my back onto my forearm, and Rikuo stares at the moving tattoo. I figured a codename was required, and the name came easily. "Sunny, is very good at sensing hostile intentions."
Rikuo doesn't have anything to say. Or rather, he's just a tad bit unnerved seeing a Kirin tattoo. It is a built-in fear on the instinctual level to stay away from those that could exorcise demons with relative ease. He looks at me when Sunny makes a hasty retreat to my back.
"Don't worry." I smile in a way that I hope is reassuring, however, knowing my face these days, it probably came out eerie. "I'm never alone."
Another ruckus in First District, the Shikoku lot is actually rather bold, I'll give them that. The Tengu and Ōkami Clan work together once again, heading for the district with similar orders as to when they went to Hihi's home. There shouldn't be a huge problem if they just adhere to my orders to not engage the Tanuki and the sword.
I called the people I wanted to bring along for the subsequent Tochigami rescue, ready to move out at a moment's notice. Ittan-Momen has been painstakingly stitched back together overnight by Saki and Uwan's help. Due to their efforts, the stitches covering the place where it was sliced in half is only visible if one squints in good lighting. The Tsukumogami is in as good shape as it could be.
Then, I looked for one of our newest member, remembering their particular ability from that time I ran into them at a festive fair. Rikuo having reminded me that it would be good to receive updated information on the Shikoku group.
"How good are you at espionage?"
Menreiki, who is currently wearing a smiley gigaku mask, gave me two thumbs up, and in a flash, their mask changed into a blank slate. They point at that mask. I suppose it is a bit more special than the other masks?
I grin menacingly. "Good. I've got a little errand for you."
...
Enenra and Hidama reports back quickly, just a couple minutes before dinner actually. The smoke apparition is gesturing frantically. I took the map copy of the Ukiyoe's Tochigami shrines from his hands and look it over, noting the number of burnt crosses upon the paper. Definitely Hidama's doing. 'Six, no seven crossed out.'
Squinting, it seems like they are kind of attacking the shrines from the outside and working their way into the heart of Ukiyoe town. Enenra points to the eighth shrine, and if he had a physical body, his finger would of poked through the paper, but as is, the smoke only gathered on the sheet. Hidama flies over and crossed the eighth one out with tightly controlled flames, so it doesn't burn up the entire map instead.
"They are attacking the eighth shrine when you were scouting?" I guess.
They nod in quick successions. Frowning, my eyes settles upon the shrines that wasn't attacked yet. My heart almost stops beating.
Kokehime. Her shrine is the one after the next.
'Was Shikoku arc this fast? It was rather long wasn't it— oh right, anime always drags the time.' I inwardly facepalm, whilst my eye twitches in irritation, staring almost uncomprehendingly at the next dot on the map.
'If I move out now—' Folding the map, I shove it into the pocket of my kimono and gestures for the duo, Menreiki and Ittan-Momen to keep up. I allow the previous dread to push my transformation. 'I hope I'm not too late.'
I breathe in the scent of freshly cut grass from the recently groomed garden, before halting just outside the porch, remembering something important. I order the four to stay put and rushes off towards the kitchen area. Mama was by the stove, and I made sure to make myself known by standing beside her— a good two feet away just in case— ignoring the curious gazes around me. It is her first time seeing my night form, I cannot startle her by suddenly appearing too close.
"Mama."
I managed to smooth out the involuntary frown just as she turns to face me, her chocolate brown eyes widening a fraction of a margin before she blinks it away. Her responding smile is effortless. "What is it, Retsu?"
"I'm going out, so I'll be skipping dinner."
"Hmm... alright, take care~" She chirps, accepting my notification without a fuss, probably having had prior similar situations with Rihan. "Do eat something when you get back!"
I nod once before quickly make my way out, leaving behind a hoard of bewildered Ayakashi in my wake.
...
"Planning to leave without me?"
Without looking back at the shadow leaning against the Sakura tree, I hop onto Ittan-Momen, Menreiki sitting behind me and replied. "If you can't use Meikyō Shisui, then yes, I leaving your ass behind. We cannot get spotted for this."
Huffing a small cocky laugh, night Rikuo pushes off the tree and steps forward. "There's no problem then."
I pause, turning my head around to narrow my eyes at him. A conceited smirk greets me and I study him for a moment, having my doubts before I finally said. "Show me."
He takes in a deep breath and closes his eyes, and right before me, the familiar black smoke like tendrils— Osore— engulfs him. The next second, the place he was standing is now seemingly empty, albeit, there is an unnatural slight chill in the air.
'I thought it was in Tōno did he truly learn this technique... I suppose seeing me use it every training session helped him along?' Either way, he's not too much of a liability right now. Besides... I really wanted to confirm the issue with the Three Eyed Party. "Fine, but get your own ride. We don't have enough space for you and your escorts."
Tsurara and Ao pops out from behind the corridor, while Rikuo calls for Hebi Nyoro, and the serpentine ride comes floating to a stop in front of him.
"By the way, can you see him?" I jabbed a thumb to Enenra, who blinks his weird glowing eyes. Rikuo raises a brow at the question but nods either way.
"Good. Just follow him and Hidama, try not to crash into us."
...
It wasn't until Enenra— plus Hidama— veers off the course we were taking and lead us towards a tiny rundown shrine behind the local hospital was I slapped hard with the reminder. Chills creeps into my blood. 'There had been an incident with Rikuo's classmate there, isn't it?'
We heard the smallest sounds of rustling underbrush, then, we spot it. A little stone statue like yōkai zipping through the dense vegetation. Hidama and Enenra returns to the small lamp hanging from my obi belt upon having completed their mission to bring us to the yōkai.
The little stone yōkai is quick, but Ittan-Momen did not have much of an issue keeping up even with Menreiki and my added weight. Once we are poised over him, I enlarge my sword to its original size and raise Masamune up high, pointing the tip directly above the unsuspecting yōkai's straw covered body, and let the blade extend.
A cry of shock, and we were onto him. I dug a foot into his back to prevent him from moving too much while Menreiki moves towards his head. Ittan-Momen is wrapped around the mask Ayakashi's waist, connecting back to mine to prevent the break in physical bond required for Meikyō Shisui to work on company. She kneels by the Shikoku yōkai. Sodemogi only managing a confused gurgle when he looks up at the smiling female Oni mask in front of him, before a blank mask covers his face, dense Osore latching upon his head viciously.
He struggles, thrashing about underneath the heel of my zori and then, he stills. Menreiki retrieves the new mask with a satisfied eerie giggle before wearing it, deftly removing the previous mask without revealing the true face beneath. The change in appearance and Osore is immediate. I stare down at the replicated Sodemogi with a small smirk, nodding at Ittan-Momen to let go and allow him to continue his intended job. Destroying shrines and 'killing' Tochigami.
'Sodemogi' darts off towards the next shrine, while I ponder on how to get rid of the real body without revealing myself. Just as the thought crosses my mind, the original Ayakashi dissipates into dust and fades away from existence.
'Hmm, I suppose that's a job well done.' I muse just as Rikuo undid his Meikyō Shisui. Thankfully, he has the mind to seek shelter in the thick greenery, although it wasn't doing a lot to hide Ao. A hand appears above the bush and my brother beckons me over like how a maneki-neko would.
Steering Ittan-Momen over, I grab Rikuo's shoulder so that my invisibility extends over to him and subsequently his escorts, passing the lamp which consists of Enenra and Hidama to him before he could so much as utter a word. "I'll leave vacating the Tochigami to you. Don't touch that little yōkai. He's my informant now."
Glowing crimson eyes scans my ride and spots the glaringly obvious lack of one masked member behind me. His attention refocuses back onto me. "And you?"
"Three-Eyed Party clan base." I explain quickly. "I want to check if the clan members is still intact or swapped out like their leader."
Considering for a moment he nods and takes his leave. "Let's go."
"Hai!" Tsurara replies, and soon, they disappear in a swirl of Osore once again when I let go.
Ittan-Momen flies higher into the night sky and we took off towards our next destination. Time to check the status of our subclans.
...
In the end, I was simply too paranoid. The Three-Eyed Party clan members are the real deal, as for the territory they are in charge of, there wasn't any immediate problems. A couple rogue yōkai here and there, other than that, I suppose it would be stupid for the Brain to house his own clan members so close to him. The risks of being found out are much higher that way.
We circle around overhead when I asked for Sunny's assistance to sense intentions, completing two laps before there is nothing else to do, and we head back to the main house.
I frown upon returning to the main house and finds the smaller yōkai in a gossiping frenzy. Based on the atmosphere, it wasn't something bad that had happened kind of news, but... unexpected perhaps? Pausing by the corridor to the eastern gardens, I narrow my eyes in at Umizatō holding a broom and slowly sweeping up any stray leaves into a pile. Leaves are showering in small, steady streams from the trees lining the perimeter of the stone fence whenever he is almost done, and I glance up to see Uwan up there letting the leaves rain. 'What the—?'
"Who is that yōkai sweeping the garden?" A small yōkai mutters from above, having forgotten the blind Ayakashi after not seeing him for a few months.
"Eh, someone that came back with Retsu-sama." Another answers, bored.
I grabbed one of the smaller yōkai from the rafters, scaring the living daylights outta it, and soon found out what is going on. Ojii-chan has returned, and he had brought company along with him. They are currently holed up in a guest room, and Umizatō probably want to eavesdrop.
'That was... really fast.' I hum thoughtfully, letting go of the small yōkai, who sits on the floor in confusion for a moment before scampering back up to rejoin the others.
My stomach growls just then and I promptly turn on my heel to head for the kitchen. Time for some late night dinner and then a good night's sleep.
Nurarihyon is not in a good mood, and that is a huge understatement.
There isn't a lot of special weapons in the history of Japan that could possibly harm Rihan. Apart from the only known high-grade exorcism blade, Nenekirimaru, that was made by the genius Keikain Onmyōji, there wasn't any other notable exorcism blades that had been forged by Onmyōji. Rihan sustained a wound that could only be made by a katana. Therefore, he begin looking for peculiar swords that reside within the Ayakashi world. It would take a very special kind of weapon, one that relies on vile dark magic perhaps.
Then, Danuki mentioned his son came into possession of the Mao's hammer. The exact same one that had wiped out the Shikoku's Hachijūhakki Yakō and completely put a halt to the old Tanuki's ambition three hundred years ago. He explained to Nurarihyon the true nature of that sword's power, of its ability to turn the bodies and hatred of those it kills into power.
He has his suspicions for a long while now. It was one of the biggest suspects. But for that sword to come into his territory, and most likely again—
"Sōdaishō."
Nurarihyon turns to see Zen hanging by the empty corridor, his own brows pinched into a frown. The old Ayakashi relaxes his shoulders, about to ask when the bird yōkai continues.
"I have something to report. It's about Ojou-sama."
That had Nurarihyon's undivided attention.
It was morning by the time I woke up, and I swear I could hear the Tochigami complaining from all the way up here. Kokehime was huffy to say the least, having been removed from her shrine in the dead of the night by demon Rikuo and promptly forced to hitch a ride on Hebi Nyoro is probably rather alarming. But she was rather easy to get sidetracked, for the moment she spots me walking by from her peripheral vision, she's onto me. I left her clutches minutes later with my hair in braids and ribbons.
A mildly haggard looking human Rikuo shoots me an accusing look when I came in for breakfast, as if saying, 'You knew this would happen.'
I didn't actually, so I ignored him and took a seat.
'The Tochigami killer is swapped out and Menreiki will be reporting back as soon as they could. So now... who else could be a potential big problem?' My mind drifts towards the dog like demon amongst the Shikoku's ranks. 'Inugami... has a strong sense of smell and that perfume bomb was dropped on him around thirty hours or so ago. ...He's definitely not in fighting condition.'
Saki was especially mean while concocting that thing. Not only was it guaranteed that the person will stink for seventy-two hours straight— since she instilled some of her Osore into the concentrated liquid, it will not disperse even when one uses the usual methods to remove excess perfume— it also causes an itchy rash like one would not believe.
Kejōrō sets down my food tray and takes her leave. I shook my head in mild pity as I picked up my chopsticks and dig in. 'He's definitely suffering right now.'
...
Somewhere in a half finished construction building, Menreiki— now posing as Sodemogi— could only shake his head in condolences as the dog demon writhes and whines in the building somewhere. The strong perfume was hastily covered with other strong scents, particularly coffee beans. The caffeinated drinks and beans was bought in bulk, then proceeded to be chucked into a pit by the combined efforts of Tearai Oni and Gangi-kōzo, following it was Inugami himself.
Now, he is soaking in cold coffee brew alongside jars of coffee beans stationed here and there within elevated parts of the pit. He is cold and wet. His skin itches something fierce. His sense of smell is shot to all hell— he couldn't smell anything but coffee and perfume. His nose is still running and he can barely keep his watery eyes open. He is absolutely miserable.
It's a wonder the Ōkami wolves haven't sniffed him out just yet.
...
"Why are the Tochigami here?" Ojii-chan asks almost tonelessly after making an appearance in the dining hall, where we had just finished breakfast. As usual, he came in without warning.
Maybe it's instinct, but we sense something is amiss with Ojii-chan, but can't quite decipher what exactly is up. So, having no desire whatsoever to be apart of it, Rikuo points to me just as I point back at him. My older brother had the audacity to gape, while I gave him the side eye look.
Ojii-chan raises his non-existent eyebrows, seemingly perplexed with our behaviour. I felt as if his weird mood had somewhat alleviated in that one moment.
'I did so many things, yet he can't even do one simple job of answering our grandfather.' I grumble mentally, shooting Rikuo a look of disdain to which he promptly ignored. Inhaling and exhaling, I summarised the situation.
"Eight shrines were already destroyed by the time we found out what is going on. I figured might as well let the enemy think they have succeeded, so they don't change to another plan. I swapped out a member within their ranks with one of our own and let them continue to 'kill' the Tochigami while gathering updated intel. ...I thought it was a decent trade." I shrugged, a tad bit defensive at the end.
Ojii-chan did not blink as he makes a non-committal noise of acknowledgement, running my words through his head. He turns on his heel, stepping out into the corridor. "Rikuo, Retsu. Come with me."
We both exchanged a glance. Mentally noting that the other also noticed Ojii-chan is acting weirder than usual.
...
Inugamigyōbu Danuki has shrunk his body size to be able to fit inside the mansion comfortably, nonetheless, he is still fairly big. When everyone is seated, he didn't waste much time to lower himself into a bow to plead for his son's life.
"Somehow, please forgive my son. Whatever type of person he is... he's all we've got left. My fool of a son... I will be sure to make him atone for his actions, no matter what it involves. So please... I beg of you, spare his life..."
'...Tamazuki is lucky he has a doting father.' I stare pointedly at Rikuo, silently telling him to make the decision. He glances right back at me from the corner of his eyes with some reservations. This time, I scowled at him. 'Nuh-uh, not this time. You're the third head candidate not me.'
Rikuo closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, exhales and opens his eyes.
"I have... only one condition."
Danuki looks up tentatively. I suppose he doesn't dare hold out too much hope in Tamazuki's survival.
Fists clenched in his lap, Rikuo nearly bites out the next sentence. "Tamazuki hands over my father's murder weapon."
Based on the utter lack of reaction and absolutely stoney expression, I'm guessing that some unfortunate soul had broke the news to Nurarihyon beforehand. Maybe Karasu Tengu, bless his heart. The old Tanuki commander stills.
I cut in softly so he doesn't start... well, I wouldn't put it past him to begin something akin to hyperventilating at this point. "It doesn't matter if he hands it over willingly or not, although it would save plenty of energy should he simply cooperate. ...Which I highly doubt he would."
Danuki is looking at me now, and I note his amber eyes is pupil-less, vaguely wondering if his sight has perhaps deteriorated.
"Should he resist, please allow me to handle that sword. Due to its nature, it would not do to have any yōkai be cut down by it and add to its power." I requests, not risking the chance of anyone being sacrificed and turned into a pain in my neck.
"As for the Shikoku's main forces that are reaching sometime tonight, we'll be counting on you." Rikuo adds, and that is news to me. I glance at him and noticing my stare, he mouthed the word, 'Tengu' to me.
'Have they forgone subtly and just forced their way through the Nura Clan's borders?' I ponder calmly, humming. 'Tamazuki probs brought every single Shikoku yōkai he could amass. Border clan members aren't suited to barricading a huge horde, especially with no commander giving out orders and influencing them with Osore.'
Danuki is frowning now, hung up on something. Judging from the way he didn't take his eyes off of my form, I'm not sure if he even heard what Rikuo said. "You know how the sword works... yet— no. The sword can affect a person's sound of mind, how will you handle it?"
I smile. "I guessed as much, so I won't be touching it. I have some methods on how to deal with it. By the end of this, one way or another, that sword will burn till nothing remains."
Danuki wasn't too convinced but reluctantly accepts it nonetheless. "I will put a stop to the invasion, I, Inugamigyōbu Danuki, promise that."
Holding the others gaze for a moment longer, we all breathe a small collective sigh.
"Oh." I blink, remembering someone. "We have something of yours. You can take her back."
...
Hari Onna was brought to the room without delay, and the moment her recovered eyes drifts towards the Tanuki sitting within our guest room. The expression that overcame her face was absolutely priceless.
It is late night.
Tamazuki fiddles with his phone. There were no news from their informant, absolutely silent actually. He vaguely wonders if they were somehow found out and done in. He huffs, maybe there just wasn't any notable news to relay, or they were being watched too closely to contact him.
Osore hangs thickly in the air, and he can feel his own demon horde making their way over to him. Tamazuki gets up from his seat to gaze upon the quiet town that lay beneath his feet, a small smirk on his face.
"Tomorrow night."
OMAKE: Emergency Drill
Ukiyoe town is generally quiet, peaceful even, especially in the residential areas. But recently, there are odd occurrences.
It all started with one howl in the dead of the night. Then another, and another. They sounded like it came from huge canines. The call is loud, and it sounds like it was coming from so far yet so close. Echoing through the silence of the sleeping town.
The neighbourhood dogs joins in on the howling.
Lights were flipped on, owners muttering curse words or simply praying, begging their dogs to please shut up and go to sleep.
The Ōkami wolves continues to practice their emergency drill howls.
Author's note:
Whew, I rewrote the first meeting over three times before I was satisfied with it, and wow it felt like there's so many meetings these past few chapters, urgh. Shikoku arc is complete by the next chapter, I'm so happy! XD
Chinese New Year is coming, there is a lot to spring-clean and honestly, I got so distracted with my other plot bunnies, then there's new anime to watch, fanfics to read. Nightmares are still ongoing and... I'm a little frustrated. Which led to a couple cases of feeling so emotionally down it lasts a couple days before I finally go back to being relatively normal. ...I really do feel bad for the long wait. TTATT
Thank you all for much for 395 Favourites and 440 Follows, like, oh my gosh, I never expected this many people! X3 I hope this chapter is satisfactory~
I wish everyone a prosperous and blessed 2020! All the best!
Current members:
•Amefurikozō (Ame)
•Sunekosuri (Neko)
•Tozen (bow Tsukumogami)
•Uwan (the bush)
•Kogane no Gyōza (Koi fish)
•Saki (Flower Ayakashi)
•Fūri (blue fur with leopard patterns)
•Enenra (smoke yōkai)
•Umizatō (the blind one)
-Sazae-oni (clan member)
•Ittan-Momen (cloth Tsukumogami)
•Kameosa (jug Tsukumogami)
•Hidama (small fire bird)
•Yūga (wolf yōkai)
-Kōga [Clan Head, father of Yūga and Ryōga]
-Kiba [childhood friend]
-Ryōga [younger brother]
•Suzu (maneki-neko)
•Kirin
•Kyō (computer-dwelling spirit)
•Menreiki (Gigaku mask Tsukumogami)
•Shizuka (miasma butterfly)
~kirakira_bluemoon