Chapter 5
Restraint's Not Really My Thing
She ran across a field, savoring the feeling of tall grass against her shins and her ponytail streaming behind her. Her speed increased as she let her strides grow longer, and her legs pump faster. Leaping over a fallen tree to enter the forest, something dawned on her—she hadn't felt this free in a long time.
Such a wonderful moment this was. The sun peeking through the brilliant green forest warmed her skin and the smell of soil and pine lifted through the air and calmed her racing thoughts.
Traveling had always been one of her favorite parts of a mission. The anticipation for where she was going, the ability to push her physical limits, the unshackled wilderness. Well, not always wilderness. Even making her way through the smaller towns brought her a distinct type of joy. She was almost obsessed with seeing the different cultures and foods that made each place unique.
She had been on hundreds of missions, but this time it was different.
She would make meals from her heart now, cooking delectable stews or mixing wild berries into sweet jam each night. She would let herself swim in the rivers or sharpen her blades while lounging in a tree. She had no master, no rules holding her back.
There was no more militant "balance" or efficiency. She would take her time to stare at the stars and shop at the villages. She had nowhere to be other than away from the Kinkou. She let herself enjoy this time. Because she knew eventually, she would go back to work. Go back to helping people who couldn't help themselves.
But for now, The Rouge Assassin traveled South though Ionia. Towards the port town of Weh'le, where she planned to take a boat into the untamed city of Bildgewater.
"I'm not sure, but she did have the strangest look on her face when rummaging through my pantries."
"I noticed her acting a bit strange too Cook. She usually will stop and chat with me for a min', but she seemed rather in a hurry."
The quick voice of Shima jumped into the conversation. "You mean she will usually stop and tease you, huh Ogai?
The lean man ran a hand through his short mahogany hair, tussling the curls slightly. "I suppose you could say that Shima, but it isn't the point. Akali was being a tad strange when she left for her trip a couple days ago. I wonder if we did something to upset her?"
"Dontcha worry too much Ogai! I may not have been here all that long, but Luka said the way she was rushing about was strange too. I doubt it has anything to do with you."
"Shima…" the cook warned in a low, calm tone, "…remember to speak to Ogai with respect. He is your superior here despite being your friend. Everyone who lives here in the Order had training before you fresh crop of acolytes arrived."
Shima turned her attention to the Cook. "Yessir. I meant nothing by it! I'm just getting used to all the rules here… But back to Master Akali." The ward's voice brimmed with excitement. "Do you think I'll get a chance to train under her once she comes back? Having her and Master Shen teach me was what I was most excited for when traveling here!"
Ogai glanced towards the door to the mess hall, hesitant to give Shima the answer she wasn't looking for. "I'm not so sure…the mission must have been pretty serious for even Akali to be seldom when leaving. But you'll get to train with the Masters soon enough Shima."
The three Kinkou members—an old cook, quiet man, and youthful apprentice—quieted their speculations as they entered the mess hall, totally unaware that Akali's path was leading her far away from ever teaching Shima.
After three days of traveling by foot, Akali had found herself at the base of the Southern Navori Mountains. Knowing fully well that she had too few supplies to cross through the dangerous peaks and get to Weh'le, she was forced to stop at a lively town nestled between the river and the mountains.
Though it wasn't on the map she had brought along, the town was full of bustling tradesmen and other weary travelers. Songbirds perched on the shingled roofs of the town's happy little homes and shops. Children crowded around a baker selling sweets as a quilt-maker looked on jealously.
Being careful to not become distracted by the delectable smells coming from the inn, the ninja wandered her way through the cobblestone streets.
The road opened into a crowded—but rather quaint—plaza where rows of tradesmen sold their wares to those preparing to make it through the mountain pass. Low budget weapons, foods of all kind, and potions laced with feeble magic were the most popular. But behind the more crudely made stalls, Akali saw real talent. A mage with powerful talismans, a skilled blacksmith proudly displaying quality steel, and a heavily built group of mercenaries talking amongst themselves. All were likely taking advantage of the business that must flow through this well-placed town.
She couldn't help but slip through the crowd over to the blacksmith and his shop.
There's nothing wrong with a quick peek. I'm only checking it out…it's not like I'm buying anything.
The blacksmith, locked in a conversation on price with a heated knight, didn't even glance her way as she scanned his booth.
The only regret she had about the way she left was not saying goodbye to Kennen. The little Yordle really had been, and still was, an important friend to her. They would have silly competitions on who could guess how many times Shen would say "balance" in training, or who could get the healer to laugh first.
Her favorite memory of him was when he had dragged her along to go tour the Placidium Academy. This had eventually led to him "accidentally" electrocuted one of the sniveling professors who was getting a bit too…diplomatic with her.
Irelia had scolded them quite a bit after that, but Akali knew the only reason the professor didn't teach there anymore was because of the mature woman. Nevertheless, the lecturing never stopped Kennen from being the prankster of the Kinkou. He always was one to keep things lively by not being afraid to show his personality.
Seeing the shuriken—Kennen's chosen weapons—glinting at her from the table almost mocked these treasured memories of her friend. Before even realizing it, she had bought them.
Salutations my lovelies! Still trying to figure out how I'm structuring this story, so please try and be patient between chapters! The action is going to begin in the next few chapters, so stay tuned!
Also don't forget to leave reviews on how I can improve. This is my first fanfiction so I'd love feedback! 3
