Disclaimer: Fushigi Yuugi belongs to Watase.Y & the respective companies.
Scroll 3 - Byakko no miko – Lita's introduction （第三章：リタの紹介）
The days went by with the rolling clouds and thunderheads, refreshing the still air, the soil and all those who need it. The people of Sairou all agreed that it was a miracle and Byakko had given them the sigh that he had not abandoned them. Emperor Shiro Shimo too witnessed the rainfall and the sight of it had given him relief. He went on his knees and thanked Byakko, praying for the safety of the maiden and the seishis who were with her. From his ministers, the rumour of the maiden's existence had now becoming a reality each day. He had heard that one of the 7 seishis had fed the starving village of Shinkou with a small pot of rice. Another seishi who was sentenced to death by burning had brought rain into Sairou with the prayer of the maiden. The deeds of the maiden soon became elaborated with colourful descriptions - the most talked about was the maiden, herself, had buried the children of Shinkou with her bare hands. Emperor Shimo found the tales immensely enchanting and was never tired of hearing them over and over again. These tales had lifted up the spirits of his oppressed people. Though the Kage Kemono had destroyed the statue of Byakko, it was nothing compared to the Maiden now. The statue could be rebuilt within a few years but it took hundreds of years before the maiden reappear in this land. He mustn't give up.
As he continued to glaze at the welcoming rain, his heart felt at peace. The Kage Kemono woman hadn't been in here for days, which Emperor Shimo really wanted. She was the tormentor to him, plaguing him that the maiden was a folklore that children listened to it when they get bored. Now, was the maiden folklore? While he indulging himself with sweet revenge, he suddenly remembered something that red haired wretch had said.
Whether the Byakko no miko exists or not, I'll find her and tear out her heart right in front of you.
Emperor Shimo stood up in alarm at the realization of her absent, she was after the maiden! Her seishis wouldn't be able to stand a chance against that demon that killed without any decant human conscious. His eyes trembled at the horror thought of the demon bringing him the body of the maiden with her heart torn out. She would surely have the maiden's body in disremembered limbs and send them to all parts of Sairou, devastating the people's hearts and souls. Then, that would be the end of everyone. The end of their culture and their way of life.
NO!
He mustn't let that happen.
He must sneak out of the palace and find the maiden.
He must warn her.
He must protect her.
Even if he had to die for her…
*****
When Ameturi had recovered from his injuries, the Byakko no miko and her seishis moved on their journey to find the remaining four seishis. It was still drizzling but that did not dampen the lively spirits of Kazuko and Ameturi. They were happily chatting to each other like brother and sister as each of them talked about their way of life. Toroki said nothing as she listened to the two of them. She peeped at her little brother, who as usual was very quiet. However, like Ameturi, he was interested to know about Kazuko and her world. Her descriptions seemed very glamorous and hard to believe. A building so tall that could touch the sky, could also accommodate hundreds of people at the same time? Machines that her people used to travel had the capability to surpass the fastest horse in Sairou and only needed a liquid substance named petrol? Machines that are able to travel over land, sea and air? How can that be possible? Could the machine fly like the birds in the sky? Food of all kinds could be bought at one place? Kazuko had given them each a candy that was made from her world. A pinkish chewy candy that tasted sweet with a fruit-like note to it. Strawberry candy? Strawberry? What was that? How did her people make it? She doesn't know? How could she not know? The candy was machine-made? How? How can things made of metal could produce such goodies?
All the seishis were so transfixed on whatever Kazuko said about her world that it took an awfully long time for Kazuko to realize that she was the only person talking throughout the whole trip. She blushed at her chattiness and prompted the rest to talk.
Toroki and Kokie were born in the northwestern lands of Sairou. Their parents were farmers, who were devoted worshippers of Byakko. From young, both siblings had been told about the Maiden time and time again with of course, the rumours that the Maiden will return to the Sairou again as predicted by the former seishis. At first, their parents had no idea that their children were meant to be the Baykko seishis. When Toroki was a year old, she was crying continuously for no reason. Frightened, her parents took her to a local doctor to be examined. It was then her parents discovered Baykko's seishis' symbol on her right ear, shimmering in light so white that it outshined the sun itself. Not wishing to let this secret to be leaked out, their parents and the doctor promised to keep it to themselves. A year later after that incident, Kokie was born, this time with the Byakko's symbol on his stomach. Likewise, the secret was to be kept under wraps. Knowing full well that their children were destined to serve the Maiden, their parents had send them to a school where they could learn how to read and write and learn some martial arts. Though the fees were expensive, the family worked hard to make ends meet.
However, a severe drought came to Sairou when Toroki was twelve and Kokie eleven. It had lasted for 7 years and soon famine strike the land. Many died during the years and Sairou nearly became a graveyard. Then, like a miracle, rain came, quenching the land with its waters of life. All thought that their suffering had come to an end but it was actually the beginning. The Kage Kemono had sprung up from nowhere and taken control of the royal palace. A few days later, the Emperor decreed a law that banned the worship of Byakko and all those who do not obey will be put to death. Days of destruction followed soon after that, many people were pulled out from their homes and never return. Toroki, Kokie and their parents fled from their homes to escape the persecution. Nevertheless, the doctor from their village reported to the authorities about Toroki and Kokie being the Baykko no seishis for the Maiden. They were hunted down like dogs and were caught. Instantly, the guards checked at the places where their symbols were supposing to be but found nothing. The doctor was killed but they were not spared either. The guards have thrown them into prison where the rest of Byakko worshippers were to be executed. Late at night, they prayed for a miracle to happen. Like an answer to a prayer, Taiitsukun's nyan-nyans appeared and took Toroki and Kokie to safety. Both siblings wanted to take their parents along but the foul creatures of the Kage Kemono appeared and prevented them from doing so.
The Nyan-nyans brought the siblings to Mount Taikyoku where they first met Taiitsukun. The siblings wanted badly to rescue their parents. Unfortunately, the Kage Kemono had them executed immediately. Since then, they stayed with Taiitsukun where she taught them how to use their seishi's powers. When things had settled down in Sairou, Taiitsukun send them to Ouiron under alias' names to work as inn owners as well as waiting for the coming of the Maiden.
Ameturi was born on a rainy day in the village of Shinkuo. His grandfather told him that when his grandmother bathed him, she saw Byakko's symbol on his left chest. Like Kokie's and Toroki's, it shined so brightly that his family was delighted yet afraid. The symbol shone every time it touched water. So, his family was very careful not to let him play with water in public. Likewise, they did not want too many people to know about it. Strangely as Ameturi grew older, the symbol ceased to appear so did the family's concern. Ameturi was six when the drought came. His parents and grandmother were among those who perished during the 7 years. At 13, at the early times when Kage Kemono took over Sairou, Ameturi lead a group of children to savage for edible roots in their fields. Though the villagers were forbidden, he could not stand the sight of starvation. Under the moonlight, they dug at the fields with their bare hands. Once something edible was found, it was eaten on the spot. Hunger like a wolf, drove the children to fought among themselves till they made a loud commotion. Ameturi tried to hush them down but the children were too occupied in getting their bellies filled. The guards arrived on the scene and Ameturi was forced to run for his life. Many were caught with a few escaped. Ameturi advised the lucky escapers not to return home, as they would be looking for them. No one listened and return home. Ameturi remained hidden for a few days before returning. His grandfather cried with relief and held him close to his heart. Later, Ameturi learnt about the hanging of the children and those who returned were taken away and had the same fate. Angered and yet guilty, Ameturi went back to the field and tried to bury them. Like he had expected, he was caught and taken into prison, where he awaited for his execution.
After Toroki told him that they had buried the children, Ameturi was extremely grateful. He thanked them profusely. Before the group started the journey, Ameturi offered incense to them and prayed for their forgiveness and wished them to rest peacefully. Like Kazuko, he vowed to avenge their deaths.
During their long conversation, the group approached onto the next topic – where are the remaining four seishis? Time was definitely not on their side. Kokie feared that the news of the Maiden had already spread through Sairou and the Kage Kemono would be searching for them and the remaining unfound seishis. Kazuko took out her Byakko scroll and read (with Toroki's help) the next clues while the rest settled their things under a tree and prepared the evening meal.
Once united
Once departed
Now meandering
Like two breezes
The two will untie again
By beads of the sea
Once united
Once departed
The falling snow brings them together
Now the cycle spins again
Once more?
Or turn elsewhere?
"So, what does that mean?" asked Ameturi quizzically, looking hard at Kazuko.
"Ah…" Kazuko stammered, "I don't know but it seems to be hinting that we can find two seishis this time."
"Are you sure?" challenged Kokie. "Maybe it's trick to make you believe that."
"Still, the first phase does sound that way," Toroki commented. "But the second phase doesn't seem to be related to the first."
"That's true," Kazuko chewed on her food. "What do you think, Ameturi?"
"Who me?" Ameturi pointed at himself, gravy dripped onto his chin. "Don't ask me." He slurped his drink. "I don't know much about poetry. Why don't you read the next clues for the remaining seishis then we will know how much seishis that we can find based on each poetry."
"For a boy who can eat a horse surely knows how to make useful suggestions…"
"Of course, Toroki!" he grinned widely as Kazuko proceeded to read the next clue.
The last star the Maiden seek
Is brewed by enmity
Animosity blows whatever it goes
Calamity is its guide
The tempest of the stars
Yet a lost wing will guide it
To the haven it seek
"This sounds different from the others… very different," Kazuko swallowed.
"For once I'm with you," agreed Kokie.
"Me three."
"Me four."
"Does that mean that the earlier clue means that we'll be able to find 3 seishis at one time?" Kazuko scratched her head.
"No way!" Ameturi burst out. "Two is considered good enough. But three! That's too much to ask for!"
"That will help us save a lot of time," Kokie thought for a moment. "As usual, the second phase posed a serious problem. The line 'under the falling snow'… We don't have snow in Sairou. Genbu will surely have snow at this time of the year…"
"Don't tell me that we have to go to Genbu to find a Byakko seishi!" groaned Ameturi.
"But there is a possibility since many people left Sairou during the drought," pointed out Toroki. "err… Kazuko, are you ok? You look a bit peaky."
"Genki… genki… (I'm fine)" Kazuko said wearily. "It's that I think that we have to do a lot of things before we can find the remaining four."
"Relax, will you?" Ameturi licked up the last morsels. "We'll find them. Right now, let's get a good night's sleep." He stretched out his limbs and gave a yawn. "A sleep will refresh your mind and tomorrow we'll see."
*****
With the help of his ministers, Emperor Shimo managed to slip outside the palace walls and rode hard to the village of Shinkuo. His commoner clothes should at least disguise his royalty but his ministers were afraid that his manners would expose him. Shimo scorned at their remarks. This was not the time to discuss how he should act in public. He had to find the Maiden quickly. Besides, what kind of an emperor would not know of his own lands? Additionally, this would enable him to learn more about his people rather than hearing those dreadful reports by his ministers. Perhaps, to find out more about the Kage Kemono. If he could find their weakness, it would certainly add advantage in his flavour. The disease was not in Sairou only but also in the lands of Genbu, Kutou and Konan.
He rode on, resting occasionally along the riverbanks. At day, he pressed himself hard on the grasslands and the dusty roads. The effort of finding the Maiden had drained him most of his strength, the windless air made him felt lightheaded. The day passed and night came and he was a day's journey from the village of Shinkuo. He fished for his dinner that night, using a hook and line that he had brought, cooked and ate his catch. Shimo grinned with satisfaction that his trainings that not been in vain. With a sleeping rug, he laid back and tried to sleep. He remained awake with deep thoughts of how the Maiden would look and behave like. Was she really from another world as said in the legends? How should he react to her and her seishis? It would be best if he doesn't mention a single thing about the royal blood that flowed in him. That would make them feel uncomfortable and he wouldn't want that to happen. He hoped that he could make friends with them. After all, being at the top doesn't mean that he would have true friends.
Sunrise was glowing red from the east with a gathering of clouds welcoming the day. Shimo rose and started out again. By the next noon, he reached the village of Shinkuo. The villagers were eager to tell him of the miracles that the Maiden had performed. Shimo listened closely, picturing on how the Maiden would look like. From what he had learnt, the Maiden had 3 seishis with her. Thanking them for their hospitality, he rode on to the direction that the Maiden had taken. They should be in the neighbouring town by now. Light rain fell upon his skin but that didn't bother him. The sign of rain signaled the freedom that he and his people needed. Yet, the winds gusted sharply a question at him.
Why hadn't he heard about the red-haired demoness?
*****
The town of Nas was a complete contrast to the village of Shinkuo. The streets were filled with lively people with haggling buyers over goods. Sellers deliberately serving those who could afford the price with their silver spooned tongue. Little children skipped along with games that they had created or little wooden toys. The mules, whose impatient owners were trying to reach their destination as soon as possible, dragged the hay wagons. Kokie lead the way to an inn with Ameturi at the back and the girls in the middle. The waiter led them to an empty place at a corner. Toroki checked the menu while Ameturi busied himself with the appetizers. Kokie was talking to the owner about the prices of the rooms required. Kazuko, resting her chin on one hand, lazily looked at the customers, drowning mugs of foamy beers and swallowing pieces of meat without chewing. Then, at the bar counter, she noticed one of the waitresses.
Her shoulder-length hair was whitish green that curled around her shoulders. She had big rounded apple eyes that matched her button nose and faint rosy lips against the rather fair skin. Dressed in an orientated waitress suit, she moved around the inn carrying large trays of drinks and foods like she was dancing. Her politeness and smile always brought merry cheer to her customers. Some had invited her to join them. One of them tried to touch her but she skillfully pulled his hand aside and added a cheeky comment. The customers laughed and some gave her a tip for it. Kazuko sensed a certain bonding with her. Within a few minutes, the waitress brought them their meal.
"Please enjoy your meal," she said friendly. Her eyes looked up at something. Kazuko turned and saw a man outside the bar doors. He was tanned with dark green hair; dark eyes with a twinkle of cheekiness in them and had a charming smile. The waitress signaled to him and the man nodded and faded into the crowd. She then quietly slipped into the kitchen. Toroki, who was watching the entire scene, smiled.
"The romance of courtship," Picking up a piece of meat with her chopsticks. "It's wonderful to see such things in times like these. Don't you think so?"
Kazuko nodded. "But I think that I'm too young for it."
"Too young?" Toroki laughed. "You are old enough to be wed, my dear. I could recommend you to my brother but I think that he is not interested in women yet. On the other hand, the way you and Ameturi get along is like you two are siblings all your life."
"Yeah and I bet that you will take at least 10 years before you can get your man," teased Ameturi. "That waitress is a lot prettier than you."
"NAN DESU NE? (What was that?)"
Kokie drank a spoonful of soup, totally ignoring the bickering between the two seishis and looked at Kazuko, who was picking her food. Her eyes were still at the direction where the waitress had taken.
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing. It's that I sensed that I should get to know that waitress. I don't know why. There doesn't seem to be any reason but…"
"Gut instincts?"
"Guess so."
"Nothing wrong with that. The Maiden and her seishis are bonded through the power of Byakko. They have the ability to sense each other's presence. But since Taiitsukun has sealed the remaining seishis' powers as a form of protection. They may not be able to sense your presence. However, you can."
"That doesn't prove that that waitress could be the one that we are looking for."
"True," Helping himself to drumstick. "But you should consider why you paid attention to her and not the other waitress or other people. It's best that we find out a bit more about her before coming to a suitable conclusion. Nesan (older sister). Could you ask the owner about her?"
"Huh? Why me?" Toroki just finished stuffing Ameturi with a chicken wing. "Why can't you ask?"
"Because I wouldn't want to give any wrong ideas," Kokie replied irritably. "The owner may be her father…"
"Like real," Toroki took a slip. "Where do you think you are in? Some kind of storybook?"
"Just do it!"
Toroki sighed and waved her hand at the owner, a big bulky man with thick moustaches. Kazuko had this feeling that he definitely looked like those inn owners in storybooks. Biting her lip, she felt a bit silly with herself. She was indeed inside a storybook.
"How may I help you?" The owner asked in a deep voice.
"We would like to know the name of the waitress who had served us a few hours ago. Her service is one of the best I have met including the food," flattered Toroki.
The owner twisted his moustache with sudden gush of pride, "She is my daughter, Iria. Her service was something that is passed down from our blood for years. This inn had been in the family for 10 years…" Kokie gave his sister the I-told-you-so look. "Iria is the talk of this town because she will be marrying the mayor's son."
"Does he has tanned skin and dark green hair?" asked Kazuko before Toroki could stop her.
The owner's thick bushy eyebrows knitted together. "No, my dear child. He doesn't look like those heroes in storybooks. But he is well educated and my daughter will surely be given the best in the world. She wouldn't need to work hard to keep food on the table. That's what every father wishes for their daughter. I have to work now. Your rooms have been prepared. Have a nice stay." He gave a slight bow and left.
Toroki bent her head closer to Kokie, who seemed to be extremely relaxed. "Okay, how in the world did you know that Iria was his daughter?"
"Simple… it has always been in this way. The prettiest one in the inn is the owner's daughter. Stereo, I know but it's a fact of life."
"But that doesn't justify your claims," objected Ameturi. "You were being lucky."
"Nope, and I can tell you about the mayor's son. I bet that he doesn't look one bit like the man we saw just now."
"And how would you know?" Both Toroki and Ameturi asked.
"It has always been in this way. Stereo but true."
"And the next thing that you'll tell me is that man is going to fight for his woman. Maybe take her away from the wedding night?" Toroki smirked.
"Exactly." Kokie took a deep slip. "Stereo but true."
"We are not in a fairytale book, you know that, don't you?"
"Want to bet?"
"Okay!" Ameturi slammed his fist on the table. "You are on!"
"If I win, you will have to cook breakfast, lunch and dinner for the next 2 days. If I lose, I'll cook the 3 meals for the next 3 days. Deal?"
"Deal!" Both men shook their hands. Toroki's eyebrows arched like she already knew whom the winner would be
Kazuko kept silent.
Where do you think you are? In a storybook?
We are not in a fairy tale book, you know…
But it is true. I'm in a book and Kokie, Toroki and Ameturi are just characters
But….
Could a real person from the real world be as real as they are?
"Congratulation for your son's oncoming wedding," Lita raised her goblet to the Mayer of Nas, a plump gray-haired old man with a wrinkled face like a raisin. Her lips curved at the corner with a hidden intention. "I trust that the wedding will be the highlight of this town."
"Oh yes, it will be," The Mayor pouring more wine into her goblet. "And it will be even great honour if your lady would be there. But of course, your lady has many things to build the stability of this land."
"Indeed I do have many things to do but it so happens that I have business to conduct in this town and your cooperation is certainly most required." She plucked out a grape from a bronze-rimmed bowl and inserted into her mouth. The Mayer displayed interest and eagerness like a willing servant to the master. Lita slowly swallowed the grape down her throat and dap her mouth with a napkin.
"I need to find 4 people in this town. They are," She tilted her head. "The key source to the stability and wealth of this land. My resources told me that they have arrived in this town. I need your men to seek them out."
"As your lady wishes," The Mayer responded quickly. "My men will find them straight away as long as your lady could give us a description of how they look like."
"That would not be necessary. Your men will do just fine."
"Forgive my bluntness, Lady Lita but how can my men find them if they don't know how they look like."
"That is taken care of," Lita flicked her fingers at cloaked figure who opened up a case. In it, were sticks of ebony wood. "This stick will react when it senses the people that I seek. It'll transmit white light into their bodies and when it does, your men will have no probably capturing them. Bring them to me when you do catch any one of them."
"Absolutely, your ladyship." The Mayer bowed. Lita rolled her eyes at the worthless effect the fool was trying to get into her good books. She signaled him to leave and watched the imbecile leaving the room. Bringing the goblet to her lips, she thought of a possibility.
If the Maiden is here, then that means the few of the remaining seishis could be here. Let her find them and when she does, I'll go down like a eagle and scoop them up like rabbits in an open field.
*****
The Maiden and her seishis are resting peacefully in their neatly swept rooms. It had been a while for them since they last slept on comfortable mattress and soft, fluffy pillows under their heads. Kazuko was glad that they were able to afford the rooms, as she wasn't used to rough journeys and nights lying on hard bumpy grounds that made her body sore each morning. Tucked snug in her own bed, Kazuko felt restless and thought about Iria. She didn't know the reasons why but she knew that she had to find out more about her. Carefully, she dressed herself and slipped out of the room, not wanting to disturb the sound asleep Toroki. Tiptoeing down to the bar counter, she hoped to catch a glimpse of Iria when she heard voices.
"Zan, what are we going to do? We can't hide this forever," said a female voice, which Kazuko recognized as Iria. "Father has agreed to the marriage and even though if we can talk to him, he will never accept you."
"I know, my love," answered a deep voice. "That's why we have to leave tonight."
"Tonight!" she gasped. "That's eloping! But can we? For some reason, there are so many guards at the outer walls."
"That's nothing," he said confidently. "I can sneak in and out their security like a rat. The most important thing is that we leave tonight. If we don't, I'll regret this for the rest of my life."
"But…"
"We can't hold back. We gave each other our pledge to be married. And I'll give my heart and soul to the underground if that is what it takes to make it a reality."
There were a few minutes of hesitation from Iria. Finally, she gave in. "What's the plan?"
"Meet me at the outer gates at midnight. The nightshift guards tend to be less strict than the dayshift guards. I love you, Iria. I promise to make you the happiest wife in the world."
"To be with you has already made me the happiest."
Silence fell again as the lovers embraced each other. Kazuko slowly crept back to her room, envying them for their bravery. Kokie would have to cook for the next 3 days. That wouldn't be a big deal.
Kokie was really a fantastic cook.
*****
Night blanketed the town with its darkness. The guards lined the outer gates sluggishly in their tainted armours. Two strangers groped their way to the gates, almost toppling over each other. One duty officer, seizing the chance to abuse their authority, roughly pushed them to one side of the wall for questioning. He demanded for their names.
"Asah and Roke, sir," said a ragged, whitish green haired woman. The duty officer held his nose high against the offensive rubbish smell that was coming from her. Under the torch, he studied the pitiful piles of rags that were strapped to their backs. Worth not more than dust. He glanced at the staggering man whose face was covered by his cape. The duty officer pushed back the cape and lifted the man's chin up. Sores dotted on his skin and thick milky fluid flowed from where his eyes should have been. He gagged. No wonder these two trashes did not leave town during the day.
"Be gone!" He chased them out of the gates. The two strangers scurried into the darkness. The officer wiped his hands cleaned and muttered curses as he searched his pouch for any bits of tobacco. He took out an ebony wooden stick. His eyes widen in horror.
Iria and Zan fled to an abandoned shed a few miles away from the town where they discarded their disguises and put on new clothes.
"That was too close," hissed Iria.
"At least we are out."
"By luck!"
"Fine," Zan, not wanting to start an argument. "Let's get out of here before they find out that you are missing in the morning." He placed a saddle onto a horse. "The strangest thing is that I felt a force weakening me back at the outer gates when the officer was standing in front of me. Thankfully, he wasn't smart enough."
"And he was severely dealt for his insolence," said a vile voice from behind. The startled lovers saw a red haired woman, cloaked in peacock blue cape. Her pose was hunched like a cat at hunt. A rolled leather whip was hanging smoothly at her hip. By her side, were soldiers and the Mayor of Nas was standing next to her.
"What the…. How?" Iria panicked. "There is no way that they could get here this fast."
"Iria?" The Mayor stared at her stunned. "What are you doing here? And with him?"
"Iria?" Lita glanced at the frightened girl. "So, this is your daughter-in-law. How romantic of him to come rescue you from your arranged marriage."
"What?" The Mayor stuttered.
"Nonsense, dear Mayor," Lita cut him short. "Iria had been under a spell caused this man that you see before you. He studies witchcraft and bewitched your darling Iria into eloping with him. Kill him and Iria will be saved. That includes you and your people as well."
"Lair!" snarled Zan, bringing out his staff from his sleeves. "I remember you, Kage Kemono whore. The real witch is you, killing people wherever you go, sparing no one even children. The one that should be dead is you!"
"Enough talk, little boy. Your corpse is something that I need to catch someone else. Get him!" she commanded.
The soldiers charged towards Zan, who smiled devilishly. That's right, come over here like slaves. Zan jumped up and swung his staff like a fan. Like flashes of light, he appeared and disappeared in front of the guards, making them confused and frustrated with his movements. Lita remained stoical and slashed out her whip at him. Zan spin around to dodge. The whip parted itself into many snake-like threads, hanging onto Zan with magnets. Another flash of light and Lita's whip crumbled to the ground. Sensing his presence, Lita wheeled around and barely avoided Zan who leaped from behind to attack. Moving swiftly, she gave a turning kick to Zan in the midsection. Zan was thrown back but he stabbed his staff into the ground the break the impact. Lurching forward, he dared to attack Lita but was forced to retreat at the sight of her whip. Flashing again, he appeared next to the Mayor of Nas and punched him aside. Grabbing Iria, he flashed out again, hoping to escape. Suddenly, an unknown force hammered them to the ground. The lovers rolled over. Zan shook his aching head and opened his eyes. Surrounding them were those blasted wooden sticks, shimmering in the night.
"Cheaters!" Zan sheered. "Always have something to back you up instead of going one on one."
"Don't be such a spoilsport," Lita approached him. "Allowing you to use your teleportation powers and letting you to live is being too generous. On the other hand, a live wriggling worm can catch a bigger catch than a dead one. Byakko no seishi."
"What?"
Lita's red hair flared, releasing her powers, roaring out like an uncontrollable flood. Zan felt everything exploding around him, burning everything. His skin felt like its on fire. The power, hot with fury, wrapped around Zan's neck and chest like shackles, tightening and suffocating at the same time. There was a feeling of being pulled into a phantom pit of the underworld. He could hear Iria's cries, sounding like another dimension away. He saw darkness enclosing around him. His strength gave way consciousness was leaving him. A final thought floated in his mind before the darkness took him over.
Why did she call him Byakko no seishi?
*****
"What!" exploded Kokie. "Are you sure? They eloped last night?"
Kazuko nodded as she drank her sweetened tea. "I overheard them yesterday."
"Iria wasn't here the whole day," Ameturi added.
"Plus, the Mayor's son doesn't look that bad," Toroki joined in. "I saw him at the entrance of his house. Combed hair, manly chiseled face, black eyes… nothing to resembles the typical pig-faced groom that the heroine had been forced to marry."
"So, since Zan, that the name of Iria's lover, rescued her last night which is not on the wedding night, which is tonight. Therefore, it means that you…"
"LOSE!" Kazuko, Ameturi and Toroki chorused together. Kokie was too flabbergasted to defend himself.
Toroki clapped her hands together, "How romantic of Zan. I bet that the two are in utopia by now." She pressed her hands together. "I really do envy them."
"Hush!" Ameturi shoved a bun at Toroki. "Here comes the father!"
The inn owner was indeed in a foul mood. He merely placed their food on the tables and grunted. Toroki, feeling a bit bold, congratulated him on the oncoming marriage of Iria.
"The sooner the better," he growled back.
"What you do mean by that?" Kazuko asked innocently.
The inn owner took a mug of beer from a tray and drank heavily. "Last night, a warlock came and tried to take Iria as his bride. Fortunately, the Mayor was here to stop it from happening. Tonight, he intends to behead the warlock to break a spell that he had cast on Iria. After his head had rolled, Iria would be released from the spell and she will be married happily." He wiped his mouth with his sleeve. "And the warlock happened to pay regular hours eyeing on her. His description is actually what you said, dark skin, and dark green hair. To think that I categorized him as a hero." He spat. "On with the beheading, I say, let no warlock live. They are evil creatures."
"How did the Mayor and his men managed to capture them?" Kokie was puzzled and yet seeing the light that he had not lost the bet yet. "Surely a warlock could easily take them on."
"The Mayor had invited a guest as a witness to the marriage. I don't know who that person is but she is very important. She was there to capture him," he dug out a wooden stick and waved it in front of Kokie. "See? This thing has the power to detect any witch or warlock." Kazuko saw the stick shimmering faint white light, she gasped at Kokie's face. Toroki, sensing the danger, deliberately rolled a cup towards a waitress who unknowingly stepped onto it. She screamed as she lost her balance, sending down her tray of plates clashing onto the floor, causing a huge commotion. The inn owner instantly darted to the scene, leaving the stick on the table. Toroki wrapped it with a thick rag and signaled Ameturi to move upstairs. Kazuko and Toroki heaved the ghastly pale Kokie to their rooms and locked the doors. Kokie collapsed onto his knees, breathing as if smoke was in his lungs.
"What the heck was that?" Ameturi hissed softly. "Toroki, your right ear is shining."
"I know. It does that whenever I sense danger." She held out the wrapped stick. "This thing is made up of wicked magic. Luckily, the inn owner's back was facing me, allowing me to create a diversion. Kokie, what did you feel just now?"
"Something chocking me," Kokie sat up straight again. "Like it's draining energy from me."
"The Kage Kemono is here then," concluded Ameturi. "It didn't react when the inn owner was holding it till he waved it at Kokie. And Kokie was affected by it."
"Is the cloth strong enough to deflect it?" asked Kazuko worriedly.
"Daijoubu (Don't worry). This fur cloth was given by Taiitsukun. She said that this fur cloth was made from Byakko's fur, which protects the seishis from any harmful objects that the Kage Kemono can come up with. Look on the bright side, at least we can use this to find the remaining seishis."
"That depends if the Kage Kemono didn't sense the reaction," said Kokie. "If we are on the same page, Zan could be also a Byakko no seishi."
"Or a bait to get us," Ameturi warned.
"No," Kazuko objected. "Iria loves him deeply. There is no way that he could be a bait for us."
"Either way, we don't have much of a choice." Toroki crossed her arms. "Guess we have to plan another rescue plan for Zan and Iria."
"Iria!" Ameturi protested. "Why do we have to include her?"
"Even if we rescued Zan, he would insist to get Iria," Kokie rubbed his chin. "As usual, we have a serious problem, planning a rescue plan. It's not going to be easy like the last one."
"You mean you guys don't know how to think of one?" Ameturi stared dumbfound. "Then, how did you rescue me in the first place?"
"I prayed to Byakko to release your powers," answered Kazuko timidly. "But that is not going to work with these sticks…."
Toroki nodded. "The Kage Kemono would used this to sense our presence…"
"Excuse me…" Ameturi interrupted. "But anyone can tell me what's my power?"
Everybody spin their heads at him.
"YOU DON'T KNOW??"
"IMPOSSIBLE!! You have been with us and you don't have not a single clue?"
"It is something that I never thought I will hear from a seishi."
"Hey! It's not my fault!" The embarrassed Ameturi defended himself. "I just received my seishi powers, remember?"
"That's true…" Kazuko agreed.
Kokie sighed. "Fine, let's settle this. Nesan (older sister) and I don't have time to protect you while we are fighting. Ameturi, your grandfather said that whenever you touched water, your symbol would appear. Maybe your power has something to do with water."
"Like bringing down rain?" Ameturi suggested. "I managed to do that."
"Maybe…" He raised an eyebrow. "Okay, fine. We'll leave it as that for now. After we rescued Zan and Iria, we seriously have to do something about your power and Zan's. Now, the rescue plan. Err…"
"You don't know how to do one, don't you?" Ameturi hitting the nail as he looked up at the ceiling like he had expected it. "I wonder what were you doing with Taiitsukun, didn't she teach you anything about rescuing people? But…" He held out his hand. "I have one in mind already. It involves a lot of team work but if we can pull this off… that will give something to the Kage Kemono."
He grinned like a fox. "And this is stage 1 of sweet revenge."
*****
The town of Nas was thickened with soldiers in the inner and outer walls, checking everyone who passed and pulling out anyone who seemed suspicious. The Mayor, donned in his glory, was extremely worried on not what might enter in but what will come out. He was concerned that a rescue attempt would be made on the warlock, Zan. He believed that it would fail because garrison was at its full strength and the security measures were at its peak. Plus, he had Lady Lita and her power on their side. The wedding must proceed on this auspicious day without any interruptions. How dare the fools challenge the mighty Kagemono, who save Sairou from the great drought. He heard from his servants that his daughter-in-law, Iria was still in tears about the execution of the warlock. Indeed, his black magic had a strong hold on her mind. When that hell creature's head rolled to the ground, the spell would be broken and everybody would be free from his cursed magic. Lady Lita would be there to make certain of it but he must not disappoint her. He must gain her trust and confidence in his capability. The Kagemono reigned supreme over Sairou not the weakling Emperor, whose presence was a mockery to all those blinded by their faith in Byakko. There was no guardian to protect the people when the great drought. Baykko never came. Looking down at the courtyard filled with clowns and sellers of food and drinks, the Mayor felt very sure that his people understood his decisions and was all willing to support him. The wedding would proceed and it would be the talk of all the lands of Sairou.
He heard the sound of the trumpets announcing that the wedding was about to begin. A gate opened and a group of soldiers immerged and dragged the chained warlock to the execution site. His son and wife to be were lead to the heavily decorated stage where the priest was standing. Lifting his satin cloak, he turned and walked down the winding steps.
Zan, despite the beatings he received in prison, kept his eyes on Iria. She was dressed in white silk grown with its splendor that the best tailors in Sairou could provide. Although a thick veil covering her face, he could visualize the outline of her face. She sat very still and her hands crutched the tears soaked handkerchief. He wanted so badly to tell her that everything was going to be all right if he could remove the gag in his mouth. If he were to die today, she would join him soon. They made a pact with each other and that was they would always be together though life and death. Nothing would separate them. One of the soldiers blindfolded him and pushed his head onto a wooden block. The sound of trumpets came and the voice of the Mayor boomed over the courtyard.
"People of Sairou. I welcomed you to the wedding of my son. To celebrate this joyous occasion, we will have the warlock, Zan executed as warning for all those who defied the supreme Kagemono. Let it be known that Sairou will not tolerate black magic…"
"KILL HIM!" screamed a woman vehemently. She was in rags and her hair in disarray. "He kill my family with his vile magic of the underworld. Afterwards, he ate their flesh and grinded their bones to dust which he used to cast his evil spells on Iria. KILL HIM TO SAVE IRIA!! KILL HIM TO SAVE OURSELVES FROM HIM!!"
Some townspeople were stirred by her speech and took up the cry. Kill him, they cried out angrily, pressing closer to the execution site. The soldiers held them back with their spears while the commanding officer barked orders to gain control. The Mayor was overwhelmed by his people's response. Glowing inside with pride, he lifted his hand to signal the executioner, who raised his axe high. The crowd cheered so loudly that no one noticed the shadowy forms that crept up to a horse-wagon. One of them lit the hay in the wagon while the other loosened the reins of the horses. Then abruptly, a burning wagon was charging straight into the heart of the courtyard. Cries and screams rang through the walls as the people ran at all directions to avoid the wagon with its terrified horses. The wagon collapsed at the execution site, sprouting its flames onto the ground. Toroki raced towards it, finished with her deception, lit tiny jars filled with oil and threw them at the soliders. Kazuko joined her after leaving her hiding place. Kokie and Ameturi picked up the abandoned spears and attacked the soliders that remained at the site. Ameturi tossed Kazuko the keys from a fallen guard and yelled at her to free Zan while they covered her.
Fire burned in Zan's eyes as he tried to stand up after Kazuko freed him from his bonds
Kokie yelled at him, "Rescue Iria and meet us at the outer gates."
"The outer gates?" Zan yelled back, "They would have guards stationed there already!"
"SHUT UP AND DO IT!" Kazuko glared at him. "OTHERWISE YOU AND IRIA WILL NEVER BE TOGETHER!"
Zan grunted at her. "Not bad spirit for a little girl like you." Flashing out, he reappeared at the stage where the Mayor's son was leading Iria back to safety. Zan grinned and punched him unconscious. "Sorry but you would have to annul this wedding." Wrapping his arms around Iria, "We can talk later but we have to escape with our rescuers." He turned to the Mayor who stumped to the ground, shaking like a leaf in a tornado. His lips mumbled something inaudible. "You see, the Kagemono never care about Sairou let alone this place. All they care is about themselves." Using his teleportation skills, Zan appeared at the outer gates, he saw soliders at the outer gates, the remaining barrier towards their freedom. Turning back, he could see the uncontrollable flame sweeping through the inner courts. He clenched his teeth. Their rescuers sure have a plan of getting themselves out.
Appearing from a corner were Kazuko and her seishis, Zan frowned at the sight of the group being lead by a girl who was old enough to be his little sister. Then the man who yelled at him earlier shouted his other two companions.
"Nesan, Ameturi, quick!"
"Okay!" replied Ameturi, his Byakko symbol shining brightly on his chest, as he dipped his hand into a small bucket of water. "I don't know what power I have but here goes!" Water enhanced by the power of Byakko rose up like a wave and knocked the frightened guards to the ground. Toroki with her symbol shining on her right ear sent her Byakko chi at the soliders, pounding them to the walls.
"I do apologize for being unladylike but a lady got to do what a lady got to do."
Zan stared with his mouth gaped open; Kokie slapped him on the shoulder. "What the heck are you doing? Move! Kazuko is with Iria. Hurry! The fire will keep the soliders occupied till we reached somewhere safe."
"After which, you guys have a lot of explaining to do." Zan agreed. Within minutes, he found himself riding on a horse with Iria in his arms, galloping through the plains with the wind blowing on their faces. They rode on towards a creek, where Kokie signaled to the group to have a moment of rest after experiencing what he would consider a completely reckless rescuing plan. Immediately, Zan, holding Iria close to him, walked up towards them and began to speak.
"I know that I should be thankful but at least tell me your names and why do you risk your necks for mine?"
"Because you are one of us. You are one of the Byakko no seishis," answered Kokie, showing a thin rectangular furred bundle. "This stick only activates when it is in the presence of a Byakko seishi. That was the reason that the Kagemono wants you dead. If one of the 7 Byakko seishis is dead, the Maiden would not be able to summon Byakko. I'm Kokie This is my sister, Toroki. Ameturi. Last but not least, the Maiden of Byakko, Kazuko."
Zan blinked his eyes. "I know stories about the Maiden and her seishis. It is impossible that I should one of you. I don't have the symbols that you have. Neither do Iria."
"When the Kagemono took over Sairou, Taiitsukun had sealed the symbols of all seishis including their powers. That is why you are able to see yours although I can't explain why you are able to teleport," said Toroki. "Maybe Taiitsukun didn't have enough time to do so."
Kazuko walked up to Iria and smiled. "You can remove your veil now. Zan is going to be your husband."
"I know…" Iria looked away. "I'm worried about father. I hope that he isn't…"
"When all this is over, we will go back and see him," Zan comforted her. "And tell him everything that we wanted to say to him." He fingered the edge of the veil. "You are my wife now and forever."
He lifted up the veil and gave a shocking cry. The others too were all stunned.
It was not Iria who was in the wedding gown.
It was Lita.
*****
Emperor Shimo was startled to see clouds of smoke from the town of Nas. People were scurrying about bringing buckets of water to quench the flames. Something happened some time before he arrived. He hoped that it wasn't the work of the Kagemono. He sighed and tucked at the reins of his horse. The Maiden and her seishis were probably somewhere else and he would have to work harder to find them.
Please let me to be with you soon, Byakko no miko…
Lita smirked, "How incredibly stupid you seishis really are." Her flaming hair flared fiercely at Zan. "Next time, please check before running off with the wrong bride." She locked her almond eyes on Kazuko. "So, this is the famous Byakko no miko. My name is Lita, one of the Kagemono who seeks your death and the other mikos that have appeared in the other lands."
"Yumi, Miwa and Chiaki…" Kazuko trembled. "If you want my death, why do you drag innocent people into this? Why do you have to kill them?"
"As long as there are people who believed in Byakko, they have to die," Lita held out a sword. "Even if they are children, like those in the village of Shinkou."
Ameturi let out a fury cry and charged towards her. Lita raised her sword to strike. Kazuko screamed. Toroki released her Byakko chi and set up a protective shield over Ameturi and deflected the sword as it swept down. Yet, the force of the blow set both of them sprawling onto the ground. Zan flashed at multipliable positions to attack but Lita unleashed an energy globe, which hit him in the chest, slamming down to the earth. Kokie stood protectively over Kazuko, concentrating his Byakko chi. Images of the Maiden and her seishis materialized all over the grassland.
Lita lowered her sword and examined the new situation. "Omoshiroi (interesting)… creating illusions to prevent the enemy from detecting you. Even so, there is someone whose illusion skills are far powerful than yours." Her red hair glowed redder and spread out. "I know where you are!"
The Kagemono flame lanced from her, shattering the illusions to bits. Kokie leaped away, carrying Kazuko in his arms. Lita pounced on them and kicked Kokie, knocking him backward. Kazuko slipped from his arms. She screamed as she fell to the ground, bruised. Lita gave a blow at Kokie's throat, clouted him painfully to the ground. She landed gracefully and focused on Kazuko, who groaned as she tried to get onto her knees. Lita lifted her sword and struck. Zan appeared with his teleporting skills and yanked Kazuko aside. Lita swung a second time and Zan caught hold of the sword between the palms of his hands.
"How sweet of you to save the Maiden when you should be saving your love."
"What do you mean?" Zan struggled to steer the sword away from him. "What have you done to Iria?"
"I knew that she is in love with you and she will rather take her life than being forced to marry another man. So, I took her to the akki forest where she will find a flower named shibou. Once she eats it, she will die. Since she completely believes that you will be executed today, I have absolute faith that she will keep her end of the pact that you two have promised to each other."
"Damn your soul, Lita," Zan cursed.
"My soul is already damned," Lita's eyes narrowed. "In fact, it's dead."
Bright white light shot up between the two, Lita held up her arm to block her eyes from the glaring light. Kokie came from behind and pinned her down. Meanwhile, Zan felt himself pulled sideways, his eyes met Toroki's; her face was bleeding on one side.
"Zan, go to the akki forest and stop Iria before she kills herself for no reason. Take Kazuko and Ameturi along with you."
"But…" Kazuko protested.
"No buts!" hissed Toroki. "The Maiden must live to summon Byakko. Kokie and I can handle this. Now go!" Zan nodded. Ameturi grabbed hold of Kazuko and half-carried her to the nearest horse. Toroki cringed as she felt the impact of Lita's power breaking through her chi barrier. Still, a spilt second of satisfaction gave a smile when the sound of running hoofs rang through her ears. Kokie let out a cry as Lita flung him to the ground. Lita's hair flipped across her face, her eyes fluming at the sight of her prey escaping. Toroki grinned at her.
Lita snarled, like a wild beast, she tore away her cape, dropped her sword and charged, closing the distance between them. Her armour gleamed beneath the light her feline figure leaned forward. Toroki could smell the blood thirst in her breath. Instinctively Toroki brought out her chi to meet the attack. It caught and tangled with Lita's before exploding, blowing them away down the grassland. Both fighters rolled down to the ground, tumbling into a heap. Lita was almost on top of Toroki. She jumped away, Lita's fingernails gazed at her legs. Toroki kicked hard at Lita's chin. Lita fell backward. Toroki launched forward without thinking the possibility that Lita could release her power. Lita did so, sending Toroki spinning backward into a straying tree that nearly took her breath away. She dropped to the dirt, weakened and dazed. Retrieving her sword, Lita walked towards Toroki, who forced herself to get her feet. Lita raised her other hand and shot out her power. Toroki, barely standing, saw it coming towards her.
Suddenly, Kokie jumped up and absorbed the blow, crashing them both through the tree. Toroki opened her eyes and see Kokie in a crumpled heap. Blood was leaking from his mouth and nostrils. A burning smell was coming from his torn clothes and blackened skin. Toroki crawled over, turned him aside and checked for a pulse. Thank Byakko that he survived! She turned and saw Lita, her face shown great displeasure that both seishis were not dead yet. Then, an unknown force hammered her to the ground. Lita calmly held out an ebony stick and a fur cloth.
"I think you dropped this," The stick shined brighter. "Another mistake that you have made. No, two mistakes." Lita's hair flared, Toroki felt that her skin was on fire. The Kagemono magic held on to her like shackles, chocking her. "The Maiden may escape from my clutches but it is just a matter of time when I find her in the akkai forest. According to what you call as legends, all 7 seishis must be present otherwise the Maiden lacks the power to summon Byakko. If so, you two will be starters."
"Nevertheless, the Maiden will still find a way to summon Byakko…" Toroki gasped for breath. "And the Kagemono will be defeated."
"Your spirit is something to be accounted for. I'll make sure that this will be written as part as history when the Kagemono dynasty is established."
*****
Zan, Ameturi and Kazuko stood in front of the Akkai forest. Its trees clustered together with the vines that it seemed to create a rampart. The atmosphere was still yet humid that it made the back of their clothes stick to their skin. Zan grunted at the uncomfortable situation, took out a dagger from the inner folds of his boots and extended the dagger to the length of a spear and proceeded to cut down the undergrowth.
Ameturi looked skeptically at the forest, feeling awkward, he asked, "Zan, what do you know about the Akkai forest?"
"Just a normal forest…"
"I heard about it from the elders of my village. They said that it is haunted."
"Haunted? I would say that it has been my home for so long to call it haunted."
"You live here?" Kazuko blinked her eyes a couple of times.
"Yeah, why?" Zan turned, "Are you going to help me or not? Iria is still in danger."
Ameturi took out his sword and helped Zan with the undergrowth while Kazuko persisted in her questioning.
"You know about the flower, shibou that the woman, Lita, mentioned about?"
"The nectar of Shibou is sweeter than honey yet the poison is lethal. Once touched on the tongue, its victim will fall into a trance, the poison will transfer throughout the victim's body particularly with the mind, which will be affected. The victim will start to imagine things and said his most secret desires or wishes. Soon, the poison will reach the artery system of the victim and his heart will slowly beat slower and slower until he is dead. By then, the victim will be unconscious and it will already too late to save him."
"Then, do you know the cure?"
Zan became motionless. "No, I don't…" His voice was harsh. "There hasn't been a cure. The thing is that Shibou is able to grow at any conditions and the forest would be probably be filled with them. If I could teleport, I won't be able to find her in time." His grip on the spear loosened. "If she were to die, I will never forgive myself… never…"
Ameturi closed his eyes and thought hard. "If I were to die, my wish would be to die in my village or be buried in my village…"
"That's it!" cried Kazuko excitedly. "Zan, you said that this forest is your home, correct?"
"Yes… but what does it got to do with…"
"Don't you see? You and Iria must have a special place like all lovers have. Think, Zan! Think!"
Zan buried his hands in his dark seaweed hair. "There's a pond sheltered by an old tree… that's where we first…"
"Then what are you waiting for? Use your teleporting skills and rescue her! Idiot!" yelled Ameturi. "Kazuko will be safe with me." He shoved Zan in the back. "Move it!!"
"Thanks," Zan replied bluntly before he vanished.
In the deep heart of the Akkai forest, away from the vegetative rampart, there was a small pond. The earth surrounding it was dark and rich. Tiny delicate flowers and green moss grew at the edges. A lean and fragile tree sheltered the pond; holding out a shattering bunches of pink flowers laced with ruby. Its green leaves waved with the breeze. Beneath the tree was Iria; tears from her apple eyes fell into the pond, creating small circular ripples. In her hands, held a flower that had only 4 petals in the formation of a wine glass. Inside the flower, was a golden coloured liquid that twinkled in the little sunlight that managed to penetrate through the thick canopy. Its honey scent beckoned her to drink.
"Zan…" Her hands trembled, lifting the flower to her lips. "I love you so much…"
The nectar went down in her throat so smoothly and quickly. Iria never felt anything that would be so sweet and so inviting. Her vision become misty and the surroundings seemed to be muffled in their shapes and colours. In the midst, she thought she saw a bright white light and a man. A dark-skinned man. He was calling her name. His hand was stretching out for hers….
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