Chapter 8
Dixie stood in front of the mirror in her room adjusting her hair and dress. She had told her father about what Raiford had said. Mr. Collins was startled at the news, and was quite suspicious of its truthfulness. He wasn't exactly ready to just let his only daughter go gallivanting off into Crawgon country without much more than some boy's words about Chikorai's whereabouts. However, finally he had caved in; he knew how much Dixie loved Chikorai (despite how much he would have preferred her liking Raiford.) She had assured him that Raiford would have a well guarded carriage, as well, as guards to escort them into Crawgon territory.
After Dixie assured herself that she was presentable, she left her room, and met her father at the door.
Smiling, Stone hugged his daughter tightly. "Just be careful. I don't want to even see a spec of dirt on you when you come back.", he chuckled. Releasing their embrace, Dixie returned his smile. "Don't worry, I'll be fine. With all the people going with us, I'm not afraid at all." He nodded. "Well, still, come back safely ya'hear." "I will.", she replied warmly.
There came a knock at the door. Mr. Stone opened it.
"Ah, Raiford, so good to see you."
Dixie tried hard to hide her contempt for him, as he shot her a sly grin.
Jigoku switched dispositions, and returned Mr. Collins happy gesture with a handshake. "And so good to see you, sir." He turned to the angered girl. "Shall we be off Miss Dixie?"
"I suppose.", she muttered.
Jigoku smiled. "Very good. Off we go then." He linked arms with her (as a gentlemen should), and they bid good-bye to her father, as they climbed into the well guarded carriage.
Stone watched the carriage until it had disappeared from view, then, with a sense of nervousness, shut the door. "I surely hope they will be alright. The Crawgons are so dangerous."
As Dixie and Jigoku sat in the carriage, not a word passed between them for a long time. Dixie because of her strong dislike for him, and Jigoku because he was pondering other things.
He glanced at the beautiful girl next to him. The more he set his eyes upon her, the more desirous she became to him. True, she was human, but then again, so was he (more or less) at the moment.
The thought had vaguely crossed his mind earlier, but now, the thought seemed to be more prominent. Did he really want to rule Uisuki all by himself? Would perhaps having.someone- no, not just someone, perhaps.a woman at his side, be all that bad? It was truly an intriguing idea. Especially if he could make the stunning.Dixie Collins that woman.
However, there seemed to be quite a few obstacles to overcome in order to achieve this so called goal. First off, she hated Raiford. Second, she was in love with that stupid Chikorai boy. And third, she seemed like a goody-goody; not very apt to do evil. It would be a very difficult task, but then again, so would taking over the planet. Adding an extra reward to himself here and there shouldn't be too hard right?
Dixie caught Jigoku's wandering eyes.
"What are you looking at?", she said coldly.
He turned away blushing. "Nothing, nothing at all."
What??? Did I just blush? Hm, apparently the human emotions go along with the human body. Interesting. , thought Jigoku, as he turned his eyes to take another look at the girl beside him.
Meanwhile, Dixie, trying to ignore the constant stares from Jigoku, looked out the window, pondering whether or not the trip was worth it.
Raiford better be right about this. She thought. If he's lying to me, I swear I'll ring his neck. Can't say I care much for that scumbag anyway.
Jigoku cleared his throat. "Well, Miss Dixie, since you seem so intent on looking out the window, perhaps you have noticed we are now entering the Crawgon territory."
To be perfectly honest she hadn't been paying a whole lot of attention to the scenery up until this point. But; now that he had mentioned it, the sky had turned very gray, and all the once beautiful flowtrees seemed to be wilting, if not already dead. Dixie had never been to this region of the planet, and now understood how it earned the nickname of "Death Valley."
After they had traveled about a mile farther down the road, she noted that they seemed to be coming up upon a small town, or village.
"Just an hour or so Miss Dixie, and we will arrive at the Crawgon castle. Be sure and stay close to me; without those scoundrels king there, there's going to havoc I can assure you.", said Jigoku calmly.
Dixie ignored Jigoku's last statement. Something out the window had caught her eye.
In the middle of the town, surrounded by malicious guards, and angry townsmen, was a small, white Doggon that appeared to be around the age of ten or eleven, being kicked and slapped about, by the ruthless Crawgons.
Shocked to see this injustice, she yelled. "Raiford! Stop the carriage! There's a little Doggon being beat up by Crawgons!"
Normally Jigoku would have been overjoyed to see something like this going on. Those Doggons were nothing but trouble, and a constant reminder of his defeat. What business did a Doggon have doing out here anyway? But because not reacting 'ethically' to the situation would make Dixie lose all trust in him (and hate him even more), he decided to help out the little whelp.
"Sham! Stop the carriage!", he yelled, to a short, golden colored Doggon atop the carriage.
The vehicle immediately stopped, the driver's apparent anxiety of the demand showing.
Jigoku kicked his side of the carriage door wide open.
"Raiford, what are you doing?!", yelled Dixie, "You can't go out there and fight those things off by yourself!"
Jigoku shifted his eyes speedily. He needed to think of a good excuse, one that didn't involve, 'Don't worry I can blow them up if I need to.'
"Just trust me!", he stammered. "I know what I'm doing!" And with that the ebony haired man ducked out of the way of the door and slammed it behind him.
Dixie fumed as she watched him walk towards the Crawgon mob. I can't believe it! This idiot is going to die trying to impress me!
The Crawgons continued to ramble, as the small boy shivered in fear.
"We should put 'im to death I say."
"I agree with you there. We just can't have little traders running wild 'round here, now can we?"
"No! He was even born a trader!"
A loud cheer mixed with howls and roars of sorts filled the air.
Jigoku pushed and shoved his way to the Crawgon nearest to the supposed Doggon; receiving angry, cold stares from the surrounding mongrels. He tapped the Crawgon on the shoulder. Just as he turned to face him, Jigoku landed an astoundingly strong blow to his jaw, causing him to fall limply to the ground.
The Crawgons became infuriated by his course of action, and set their sights on destroying him.
A Crawgon with a few gold teeth questioned him gruffly. "What'd you do that for? You'll pay for this with your life! No human strikes a Crawgon and gets away with it!"
Jigoku's eyes glowed crimson, as he revealed a serpent like tongue. He grabbed the now petrified Crawgon by the collar. "Whoever said I was human.?"
The Crawgon let out a yipe as Jigoku flung him to the ground. The crowd backed away trying to keep a defensive stance in the midst their horror.
"Who are you?", demanded a Crawgon soldier, jabbing his spear.
He looked to them maliciously. "Do you not recognize your master when you see him?"
Their confusion mounted.
"Ah.so you're just as stupid as I remember.", he hissed. "It is I, Jigoku!"
The crowd stood back in fear and awe. Judging from the small amount of power he had shown them, they assumed it to be him. But the question still arose in their minds as to why he had appeared to them in human form.
The Doggon sat in the middle of the circle trembling. The presence of evil he felt radiating from this being was unbearably ferocious.
Jigoku turned to the crowd. "Hand me this Doggon.", he commanded.
"He isn't a Doggon!", said one.
"Then what is he?", he answered impatiently.
"He's a Crawgon.but look at his fur! Its white! This symbol of purity is an insult to all that we stand for!"
The crowd growled and snarled in support.
Jigoku turned to the unusual Crawgon. "Interesting.", he paused. A white Crawgon? But how is this possible? All their genes have been created so that their fur should be black, and evil. unless- no! Its just not possible; a Crawgon born with a heart void of evil and darkness? Perhaps this weakling really is worth looking into.
"But regardless!", he continued. "Hand me the boy! I shall take care of him as needed."
Without further instruction, a female Crawgon picked up the young one (who struggled with his life to get away might I add) and handed him to Jigoku. The demon's eyes and tongue returned to normal, as he headed back to the carriage in a calm manner.
The awestruck group of Crawgons stared blankly, as they watched Jigoku, along with the carriage, ride away until it had disappeared from sight.
*********************************
Chikorai, Aijin, and I had traveled a short way into the swamp by nightfall. After trudging in the green muck for about an hour, we found a nice solid piece of ground to sleep on.
Morning came swiftly, and we arose to look for food. (Anything had to be better than that mud we were served at the prison.) We searched through thickets and tall, mossy flowtrees, and finally found a good flowtree bearing an orange like fruit we call kanton.
As we talked over our meal, I decided now would be a good time to discuss the voices I had heard two nights ago.
I interrupted Aijin and Chikorai's bickering over last night's unusual squabble involving the Crawgon guard falling in love with Chikorai.(Which had been discussed and fought over at least three times.)
"Would you two please shutup! I have something important to tell you."
Chikorai and Aijin continued to hold cold glares towards each other, but stared at me attentively, as I explained my ordeal.
"So, he's the one helping Raiford do all these awful things. ", said Chikorai dolefully. "Figures that he'd be greedy enough to become enslaved to Jigoku."
"Yes. And I'm sure that he's only a tool for Jigoku's master plan. After Raiford has served his purpose, Jigoku will most likely dispose of him.", I replied.
Aijin looked confounded. "But, the question is, if Jigoku is planning to ultimately be in control of Uisuki, why does he need to use Raiford? Wouldn't it just be easier for him to take everything by storm?"
I rolled my eyes, "Ugh! Didn't you ever pay attention in grad-school?"
"Heh, no.", she grinned.
"Well, then I guess you'll have to be told again. You see, Jigoku cannot have direct control over the people yet. He must first use someone to carry out his bidding.such as the killing of King Ganko. Jigoku, though powerful, can't physically injure anyone, until. he has his sword returned to him."
Chikorai spoke inquisitively, "So, what you're saying is, that if Jigoku can use Raiford to retrieve his sword, he'll have his full power returned to him, and can practically over throw our planet?"
"Not quite. remember, there is another sword as well, that belongs to Tengoku. He still possesses it, however, if a battle between he and Jigoku were to occur.it would destroy Uisuki."
The remainder of the group glanced down dismally, but I quickly revived their spirits with my idea.
"Oh, come on, don't worry like that. Listen, if we can make it through this swamp I will tell the King of Jigoku's plans to regain power, and he can send a military force to destroy Raiford before he has a chance to give Jigoku his sword."
Chikorai smiled slightly, "That's a great idea Iyogi.but," his face saddened, "what if Jigoku were to jump out and get someone else to get his sword? Wouldn't we just be back to square one?"
I contemplated his question with a tad of frustration. I hadn't thought of that.
Aijin broke the silence (what a surprise) and answered the question rather carelessly. "Um.couldn't someone jus get the sword before him, and destroy it?"
Chikorai's eyes widened eagerly. "Aijin! That's brilliant! Why, the three of us could find the sword, and destroy it, while the Doggon army attacks the Crawgons!"
I interrupted him bluntly. "No. That's impossible. For one, the sword is indestructible, and two, no one knows where (in the Shujin forest) it is located. Tengoku, and Jigoku are the only ones who really know. Its said that the sword is secured deep inside a cave.but even if it were possible for us to find it.the chances of any of us being powerful enough to wield it are slim."
Chikorai stared at me sternly. "That may be true, but there's still a chance we can find it, a chance that one of us could wield it, and.a chance that perhaps.if Jigoku were slain by his own sword.it would kill him for good."
His last words captured my attention greatly. ".Yes.that is possible.that he, being indestructible in himself.could be destroyed by something; namely his sword, that is indestructible."
A cloak of silence took us over, as each of us pondered the idea, and the possibility of its working.
"Well.", said Chikorai, pausing. "I'm willing to risk my life to save Dixie from Raiford's grubby paws, and to save Uisuki from a being as evil as Jigoku."
I nodded in admiration of his bravery, and agreed to follow in his footsteps.
We looked to Aijin for a decision on her part. She grinned in an almost impish way. "Well, of course I'm going! Everyone knows men can't do anything without women."
"What?", I roared, "the world would be a lot better if it weren't for women.especially women like you."
She smiled blatantly. "Oh, really? Funny how my livelihood revolves around helping men that are too pathetic to get a girlfriend on their own.", she started to laugh, "and you say men don't need women's help! You should see some of the guys I've worked with.heh, let me tell ya.there was this one named Stephen." (LOL ROFL!!!! JK!! Sorry Stephen I just had to do that. Don't worry this won't be in the final print. ()
"Grr! Will you cut that out!", I growled demandingly. "Are you coming or not?"
Aijin rolled her eyes at me and sighed. "Yeah, yeah, yeah, sure.I'll go help ya get the sword no one's found, defeat Uisuki's most powerful demon, and uh, oh yeah, help Chiko over here rescue that anorexic chick."
Chikorai glanced at me anxiously, "What's a chick? Certainly, Dixie isn't some kind of bird. And what's anorexic? ", he looked to Aijin angrily, "If its some kind of dinosaur. I'll be sure and get you with that sword when we find it."
Aijin burst out laughing, Chikorai (once again) looked confused, and I.well, I looked on hopelessly with a sweat drop formed on the side of my head. I sighed. WE, US, (from the looks of it, the three stooges) were going to try and save the planet. Well, I thought to myself, this.should be interesting.
************************ The furry Crawgon's tall slender ears perked up timidly, as Dixie started to question Jigoku about his strength and seemingly dominant behavior over the Crawgons.
"How in the world did you just get those Crawgons to hand you over this boy? And more importantly, how did you knock a Crawgon to the ground with just one punch? Those things are monstrously strong!"
Jigoku searched for a creditable answer unsteadily. "Um, well, like I told you.I uh, have connections. They realized who I was and handed the little one over to me."
"That may be true;" she answered. "but that doesn't explain how you hit that Crawgon so hard."
Jigoku looked at the small Crawgon, and hoped he wouldn't have the stupidity to correct his lies. "Well," he replied, "that shot was really out of pure luck. I was surprised myself."
Dixie accepted his answer skeptically, she knew he was hiding something. She just needed to find out what.
Next, the beautiful girl picked up the Crawgon and sat him on seat with a smile. She noted his ragged gray shirt and black cloak. She stared into his nervous golden eyes, and grasped his paw. "Its ok little one, you're safe now. Those mean old Crawgons can't hurt you anymore.", she paused. "Now, tell me, how did a sweet little Doggon like you end up in a place like this?"
The Crawgon looked as if he was going to speak, but then stared down dejectedly with watery eyes.
Jigoku interrupted as Dixie tried to apologize for making him cry.
"He's not a Doggon. Look at the white cloth draped around his neck."
Dixie picked up the piece of cloth that almost went to his knees. Painted on it was the symbol for Doggon with an X marked over it. (*note* The Doggon symbol with one slash through it is the symbol for Crawgon.)
She turned to Jigoku quizzically. "I don't understand.is he half and half?"
The Crawgon shook his head, and Jigoku answered for him.
"No, he's a Crawgon alright; just a white one. Never has there been a white Crawgon, so, in white being a symbol of purity, the Crawgons created that as a symbol of betrayal, or abnormality."
Dixie looked to the Crawgon sympathetically. "So that's why they were hurting you."
He nodded innocently.
"Whats your name?", she asked.
"Kyoto Quaziihito."
Dixie giggled. "What a cute name, it suits you."
Kyoto blushed with a weak smile. "What's your name?"
"Dixie. And this over here is Raiford."
Kyoto tried to avoid eye contact with the imposter. He knew the monster's true identity, but was plenty smart enough to know not to tell the truth just yet.
"So, how old are you?", Dixied continued to question.
"Twelve." He answered. "My parents and I have been trying to hide from the other Crawgons since I was born. They knew if they ever found us we'd be dead for sure. If.Raiford", he stammered. "hadn't have saved me, I'd probably be dead."
Jigoku grinned at the young Crawgon. Smart move short-stuff.called me Raiford, hmph.
Dixie's eyes grew teary. "Aw, that's just awful. Where are your parents now?", she asked unsteadily.
Kyoto started to wipe the steady stream of tears from his eyes. "They were hung two days ago. We-we were coming out of out hiding in the swamp for food, when a Crawgon spotted me. My parents ordered me to turn around and run home while they dealt with the situation. I saw them grab my mom and dad, as they sent another Crawgon after me. They caught me shortly, and the next day killed my parents right in front of me, telling me I was next."
Dixie gave Kyoto her hankerchief and tried to comfort him.
"I'm so sorry. I wish we could have come and helped sooner. But, don't worry, you're with us now, we won't let anything bad happen to you. Will we Raiford?" she hugged the boy closely.
Jigoku gritted his teeth in envy. "No.of course not. He'll be perfectly safe with us."
Just then, Sham, the carriage driver turned around and poked his head through the window to the driver's seat. "Mr. Raleigh, take a look out the window, we're close to the Crawgon castle."
The three passengers stared out the windows.
Dixie ad Kyoto looked on in awe at the massive structure. It was composed of three, humongous towers, and an enormous bottom floor. The stones were black and weathered after centuries of use, and moss (the only living vegetation around) abounded in numerous places all over the castle.
The clip clop of the Umaraion's (an animal half horse half lion) hooves switched sounds as it began to travel over the beaten wood bridge leading to the Crawgon's royal living quarters, as well, as the supposed 'insane and maniacal' Chikorai.
The carriage pulled up to the castle gates, and Jigoku got out to speak with the guards. As he approached, the four armored Crawgons pointed their spears towards him in hostility.
"Come now gentlemen, there's no need to draw weapons here. I am your master, and king, Jigoku; now if you'll kindly step aside."
The Crawgons doubted his credibility severely, and growled at him while jabbing their spears.
"Liar!", said one. "You're a human!"
Jigoku grabbed him by the throat, and pulled him close to his face, as it shifted into a more demonic form. "Don't let my human form deceive you.". he hissed. The other guards stumbled back in fear.
He set the Crawgon down brusquely. "Now! Do as I say, and open the gate. And get me Captain Onaji; I must see him at once." The petrified guards, nodded, as two went to get Onaji, and two opened the huge steel gates.
Jigoku climbed back into the carriage with a calm demeanor.
Dixie eyed him suspiciously. There was some type of power he seemed to hold with the Crawgons, and she was determined to find out what.
The carriage entered into a small area surrounded with stone. It was sort of a parking lot before going to the throne room.
Jigoku asked Sham to stay with the carriage, and promised him they wouldn't be long.
Kyoto nervously insisted on waiting with Sham, but Dixie told him it'd be better for him to go with her.
A large red door with gold designs around it representing destruction, lead to the throne room, where the now dead Ganko once sat.
The three entered the massive chamber, where they were greeted by practically every Crawgon in the Castle; Captain Onaji stood before them all, awaiting Jigoku's arrival.
Onaji was tall, and dark with mysterious green eyes. He was bigger, stonger, and smarter than most of those present; the only exception being a captured Doggon scientist named Iyashii.
Jigoku met the Captain in the center of the room, crowd behind him, and shook his monstrous black paw.
Onaji kneeled to his guest and bowed his head. "Welcome back." He spoke in a deep voice, as he rose to his feet.
The crowd behind him howled and cheered wildly.
Kyoto and Dixie clung to one another tightly. Dixie's mind raced. What is going on here? , she thought. The snowy Crawgon next to her knew the answer, but he wouldn't dare say anything right now.
Jigoku smiled at the Captain slyly. "I have one request.", he paused.
"Anything your majesty.", replied Onaji.
Dixie's eyes widened, in fear, and confusion. MAJESTY??!!
"Take me to the dungeon I have guests I must show to prisoner Chikorai." said Jigoku demandingly.
Suddenly, Onaji's, as well, as the crowd's face turned to worry and fear.
"I, um, I'm afraid I can't do that."
"What? Why?", Jigoku replied, trying to hide his anger for Dixie's sake.
"Three of our prisoners escaped last night with the help of a guard.and one of them was Chikorai."
A voice from the crowd spoke up. "But don't worry about the guard, we took care of him!", he laughed. The crowd chuckled along with him.
Onaji looked nervous.
Jigoku gritted his teeth. "What were the names of the other two prisoners?"
"Aijin Akuma, and Iyogi Kai."
Dixie began to panic; Aijin Akuma was the Kitsune princess.and Iyogi Kai that sounded familiar too. As she stared into the evil faces of the Crawgon crowd she wished she had never come to this awful place.
Jigoku nodded. "I see.have you sent out a search party?"
"No sir, they headed out into the swamp." Onaji answered hopefully.
Jigoku hung his head, faking sadness and regret, as he turned to Dixie. "Miss Dixie.you do know what the swamp is.don't you?"
She shook her head timidly.
"The swamp is a place filled with over-sized animals.some of which are very deadly. No one's ever made it out alive.so you may as well count Chikorai as a dead fugitive."
Tears began to stream down her face. "No! I will not believe it. Chikorai's not dead!"
Jigoku wrapped his arm around her. "No, maybe not yet, but the chances of him making it out alive are very slim, even if he does have the help of some fellow prisoners."
As Dixie began to sob, Kyoto hugged her waist, in effort to comfort her. He had no idea who Chikorai or any of the others were, but he had the unnerving feeling that they were innocent people taken advantage of by the Crawgon government. Just like him and his parents. He had an idea that would help his new and only friend, but it would have to wait until they left.
Jigoku turned to the crowd. "What are you staring at? Leave!", he barked.
Pandemonium broke out amongst them, as they scattered in different directions to escape; soon, the room was empty save the three.
A dark silence fell upon them.
"Maybe.", said Jigoku softly. "we should just leave. We can discuss this later. I'm so sorry Dixie, I wanted you to see Chikorai." The demon glanced down, suddenly noticing a bright red stone hanging from a leather necklace about Kyoto's neck. Something about it seemed familiar he just needed to find out what.
"It doesn't matter anymore.you tried Raif, that's all that counts. At least now I know where he is." Dixie burst into tears again.
Kyoto's blameless eyes went misty. It hurt him to see her cry like that.
The two men lead her out quietly; they needed to be home by nightfall.
************************
After a very short while of riding in the carriage Kyoto tugged at Dixie's dress, and motioned for her to lean closer. Jigoku studied the two charily, as Kyoto quickly whispered something into her ear.
"Excuse me, Raiford, could you stop the carriage for a moment?", she asked shakily.
He eyed her with skepticism. "Why? We need to be home before dark."
Dixie fumed slightly. "Raiford just stop the carriage!"
Jigoku rolled his eyes, as he got Sham's attention, and asked him to stop the carriage.
The vehicle came to rolling halt, and Kyoto and Dixie opened the door, and climbed out.
"What are you doing?" Jigoku asked impatiently.
Dixie furrowed her brow. "Just hold on a minute!" She slammed the door and turned to Kyoto. "Ok, now that we have captain insano out of the way, what's this super- duper plan of yours to save Chikorai?"
"Well,", he said excitedly, "I've lived in that swamp all my life, and survived perfectly fine with my parents. I know every nook and cranny of the place, and can take on any animal they might encounter; so, if you'll let me, I can go now, back to our cabin in the swamp and search for them. I promise you I can bring them back to the Doggon empire safely."
Kyoto's words were skeptical to her; but did she have any other choice? Could this little boy really bring Chikorai and the others back? But; also, what if Chikorai really had turned into an insane killer? She just couldn't live with herself if anything happened to this innocent little Crawgon.
Dixie's eyes grew teary. "Kyoto, that's very brave of you, but how can I know you'll be safe?"
Kyoto reached under the white cloth across his chest, and showed her the crimson stone necklace.
"Wow, Kyoto, that's beautiful. What is it?", she asked.
"This is the Stone of Rakkii. My dad gave it to me for my twelfth birthday. He said, that when this stone is dipped into Rakkii lake it turns into a twisted staff with the stone atop it. Its said to contain unknown magical powers, and abilities.but it can only be used by those that are pure of heart. Since I am the only Crawgon ever born, without evil in his heart, it just has to work. Rakkii lake is located in the swamp, I've seen it dozens of times, and I know that if I dip the stone into it, I will have its protection. Miss Dixie, you have to trust me."
The uncertain woman stared into his bright, hopeful eyes. She had no choice.
Dixie grasped his furry paws. "Ok Kyoto, I trust you. But you have to come back safe you hear me?"
He nodded exuberantly. "I won't let you down." They gave one another a long hug good-bye, and Kyoto whispered to her.
"Dixie, whatever you do, don't make Jigoku mad."
Her confusion mounted, but by the time she could ask what he meant by that Kyoto Quaziihito took off running into the distance. Dixie could see a dark forest-like place a few acres away that she assumed to be the swamp.
She climbed back into the carriage warily, as she watched Kyoto disappear from her sight.
Jigoku began to question her gruffly about the recent turn of events, but Dixie just ignored him with her usual contempt.
I just pray he'll be ok, she thought. Also. I pray he finds Chikorai, so we can clear his name. Somehow.I get the nagging feeling that Chikorai is innocent, that he didn't commit any of the crimes charged against him, and that someone else did.
The troubled woman glared at Jigoku in anger and distrust. There had to be a good reason those Crawgons feared and reverend him so much.she just needed to find out what that 'reason' was. And why did Kyoto say not to make Jigoku mad? He was just a legendary demon.wasn't he?
Dixie stood in front of the mirror in her room adjusting her hair and dress. She had told her father about what Raiford had said. Mr. Collins was startled at the news, and was quite suspicious of its truthfulness. He wasn't exactly ready to just let his only daughter go gallivanting off into Crawgon country without much more than some boy's words about Chikorai's whereabouts. However, finally he had caved in; he knew how much Dixie loved Chikorai (despite how much he would have preferred her liking Raiford.) She had assured him that Raiford would have a well guarded carriage, as well, as guards to escort them into Crawgon territory.
After Dixie assured herself that she was presentable, she left her room, and met her father at the door.
Smiling, Stone hugged his daughter tightly. "Just be careful. I don't want to even see a spec of dirt on you when you come back.", he chuckled. Releasing their embrace, Dixie returned his smile. "Don't worry, I'll be fine. With all the people going with us, I'm not afraid at all." He nodded. "Well, still, come back safely ya'hear." "I will.", she replied warmly.
There came a knock at the door. Mr. Stone opened it.
"Ah, Raiford, so good to see you."
Dixie tried hard to hide her contempt for him, as he shot her a sly grin.
Jigoku switched dispositions, and returned Mr. Collins happy gesture with a handshake. "And so good to see you, sir." He turned to the angered girl. "Shall we be off Miss Dixie?"
"I suppose.", she muttered.
Jigoku smiled. "Very good. Off we go then." He linked arms with her (as a gentlemen should), and they bid good-bye to her father, as they climbed into the well guarded carriage.
Stone watched the carriage until it had disappeared from view, then, with a sense of nervousness, shut the door. "I surely hope they will be alright. The Crawgons are so dangerous."
As Dixie and Jigoku sat in the carriage, not a word passed between them for a long time. Dixie because of her strong dislike for him, and Jigoku because he was pondering other things.
He glanced at the beautiful girl next to him. The more he set his eyes upon her, the more desirous she became to him. True, she was human, but then again, so was he (more or less) at the moment.
The thought had vaguely crossed his mind earlier, but now, the thought seemed to be more prominent. Did he really want to rule Uisuki all by himself? Would perhaps having.someone- no, not just someone, perhaps.a woman at his side, be all that bad? It was truly an intriguing idea. Especially if he could make the stunning.Dixie Collins that woman.
However, there seemed to be quite a few obstacles to overcome in order to achieve this so called goal. First off, she hated Raiford. Second, she was in love with that stupid Chikorai boy. And third, she seemed like a goody-goody; not very apt to do evil. It would be a very difficult task, but then again, so would taking over the planet. Adding an extra reward to himself here and there shouldn't be too hard right?
Dixie caught Jigoku's wandering eyes.
"What are you looking at?", she said coldly.
He turned away blushing. "Nothing, nothing at all."
What??? Did I just blush? Hm, apparently the human emotions go along with the human body. Interesting. , thought Jigoku, as he turned his eyes to take another look at the girl beside him.
Meanwhile, Dixie, trying to ignore the constant stares from Jigoku, looked out the window, pondering whether or not the trip was worth it.
Raiford better be right about this. She thought. If he's lying to me, I swear I'll ring his neck. Can't say I care much for that scumbag anyway.
Jigoku cleared his throat. "Well, Miss Dixie, since you seem so intent on looking out the window, perhaps you have noticed we are now entering the Crawgon territory."
To be perfectly honest she hadn't been paying a whole lot of attention to the scenery up until this point. But; now that he had mentioned it, the sky had turned very gray, and all the once beautiful flowtrees seemed to be wilting, if not already dead. Dixie had never been to this region of the planet, and now understood how it earned the nickname of "Death Valley."
After they had traveled about a mile farther down the road, she noted that they seemed to be coming up upon a small town, or village.
"Just an hour or so Miss Dixie, and we will arrive at the Crawgon castle. Be sure and stay close to me; without those scoundrels king there, there's going to havoc I can assure you.", said Jigoku calmly.
Dixie ignored Jigoku's last statement. Something out the window had caught her eye.
In the middle of the town, surrounded by malicious guards, and angry townsmen, was a small, white Doggon that appeared to be around the age of ten or eleven, being kicked and slapped about, by the ruthless Crawgons.
Shocked to see this injustice, she yelled. "Raiford! Stop the carriage! There's a little Doggon being beat up by Crawgons!"
Normally Jigoku would have been overjoyed to see something like this going on. Those Doggons were nothing but trouble, and a constant reminder of his defeat. What business did a Doggon have doing out here anyway? But because not reacting 'ethically' to the situation would make Dixie lose all trust in him (and hate him even more), he decided to help out the little whelp.
"Sham! Stop the carriage!", he yelled, to a short, golden colored Doggon atop the carriage.
The vehicle immediately stopped, the driver's apparent anxiety of the demand showing.
Jigoku kicked his side of the carriage door wide open.
"Raiford, what are you doing?!", yelled Dixie, "You can't go out there and fight those things off by yourself!"
Jigoku shifted his eyes speedily. He needed to think of a good excuse, one that didn't involve, 'Don't worry I can blow them up if I need to.'
"Just trust me!", he stammered. "I know what I'm doing!" And with that the ebony haired man ducked out of the way of the door and slammed it behind him.
Dixie fumed as she watched him walk towards the Crawgon mob. I can't believe it! This idiot is going to die trying to impress me!
The Crawgons continued to ramble, as the small boy shivered in fear.
"We should put 'im to death I say."
"I agree with you there. We just can't have little traders running wild 'round here, now can we?"
"No! He was even born a trader!"
A loud cheer mixed with howls and roars of sorts filled the air.
Jigoku pushed and shoved his way to the Crawgon nearest to the supposed Doggon; receiving angry, cold stares from the surrounding mongrels. He tapped the Crawgon on the shoulder. Just as he turned to face him, Jigoku landed an astoundingly strong blow to his jaw, causing him to fall limply to the ground.
The Crawgons became infuriated by his course of action, and set their sights on destroying him.
A Crawgon with a few gold teeth questioned him gruffly. "What'd you do that for? You'll pay for this with your life! No human strikes a Crawgon and gets away with it!"
Jigoku's eyes glowed crimson, as he revealed a serpent like tongue. He grabbed the now petrified Crawgon by the collar. "Whoever said I was human.?"
The Crawgon let out a yipe as Jigoku flung him to the ground. The crowd backed away trying to keep a defensive stance in the midst their horror.
"Who are you?", demanded a Crawgon soldier, jabbing his spear.
He looked to them maliciously. "Do you not recognize your master when you see him?"
Their confusion mounted.
"Ah.so you're just as stupid as I remember.", he hissed. "It is I, Jigoku!"
The crowd stood back in fear and awe. Judging from the small amount of power he had shown them, they assumed it to be him. But the question still arose in their minds as to why he had appeared to them in human form.
The Doggon sat in the middle of the circle trembling. The presence of evil he felt radiating from this being was unbearably ferocious.
Jigoku turned to the crowd. "Hand me this Doggon.", he commanded.
"He isn't a Doggon!", said one.
"Then what is he?", he answered impatiently.
"He's a Crawgon.but look at his fur! Its white! This symbol of purity is an insult to all that we stand for!"
The crowd growled and snarled in support.
Jigoku turned to the unusual Crawgon. "Interesting.", he paused. A white Crawgon? But how is this possible? All their genes have been created so that their fur should be black, and evil. unless- no! Its just not possible; a Crawgon born with a heart void of evil and darkness? Perhaps this weakling really is worth looking into.
"But regardless!", he continued. "Hand me the boy! I shall take care of him as needed."
Without further instruction, a female Crawgon picked up the young one (who struggled with his life to get away might I add) and handed him to Jigoku. The demon's eyes and tongue returned to normal, as he headed back to the carriage in a calm manner.
The awestruck group of Crawgons stared blankly, as they watched Jigoku, along with the carriage, ride away until it had disappeared from sight.
*********************************
Chikorai, Aijin, and I had traveled a short way into the swamp by nightfall. After trudging in the green muck for about an hour, we found a nice solid piece of ground to sleep on.
Morning came swiftly, and we arose to look for food. (Anything had to be better than that mud we were served at the prison.) We searched through thickets and tall, mossy flowtrees, and finally found a good flowtree bearing an orange like fruit we call kanton.
As we talked over our meal, I decided now would be a good time to discuss the voices I had heard two nights ago.
I interrupted Aijin and Chikorai's bickering over last night's unusual squabble involving the Crawgon guard falling in love with Chikorai.(Which had been discussed and fought over at least three times.)
"Would you two please shutup! I have something important to tell you."
Chikorai and Aijin continued to hold cold glares towards each other, but stared at me attentively, as I explained my ordeal.
"So, he's the one helping Raiford do all these awful things. ", said Chikorai dolefully. "Figures that he'd be greedy enough to become enslaved to Jigoku."
"Yes. And I'm sure that he's only a tool for Jigoku's master plan. After Raiford has served his purpose, Jigoku will most likely dispose of him.", I replied.
Aijin looked confounded. "But, the question is, if Jigoku is planning to ultimately be in control of Uisuki, why does he need to use Raiford? Wouldn't it just be easier for him to take everything by storm?"
I rolled my eyes, "Ugh! Didn't you ever pay attention in grad-school?"
"Heh, no.", she grinned.
"Well, then I guess you'll have to be told again. You see, Jigoku cannot have direct control over the people yet. He must first use someone to carry out his bidding.such as the killing of King Ganko. Jigoku, though powerful, can't physically injure anyone, until. he has his sword returned to him."
Chikorai spoke inquisitively, "So, what you're saying is, that if Jigoku can use Raiford to retrieve his sword, he'll have his full power returned to him, and can practically over throw our planet?"
"Not quite. remember, there is another sword as well, that belongs to Tengoku. He still possesses it, however, if a battle between he and Jigoku were to occur.it would destroy Uisuki."
The remainder of the group glanced down dismally, but I quickly revived their spirits with my idea.
"Oh, come on, don't worry like that. Listen, if we can make it through this swamp I will tell the King of Jigoku's plans to regain power, and he can send a military force to destroy Raiford before he has a chance to give Jigoku his sword."
Chikorai smiled slightly, "That's a great idea Iyogi.but," his face saddened, "what if Jigoku were to jump out and get someone else to get his sword? Wouldn't we just be back to square one?"
I contemplated his question with a tad of frustration. I hadn't thought of that.
Aijin broke the silence (what a surprise) and answered the question rather carelessly. "Um.couldn't someone jus get the sword before him, and destroy it?"
Chikorai's eyes widened eagerly. "Aijin! That's brilliant! Why, the three of us could find the sword, and destroy it, while the Doggon army attacks the Crawgons!"
I interrupted him bluntly. "No. That's impossible. For one, the sword is indestructible, and two, no one knows where (in the Shujin forest) it is located. Tengoku, and Jigoku are the only ones who really know. Its said that the sword is secured deep inside a cave.but even if it were possible for us to find it.the chances of any of us being powerful enough to wield it are slim."
Chikorai stared at me sternly. "That may be true, but there's still a chance we can find it, a chance that one of us could wield it, and.a chance that perhaps.if Jigoku were slain by his own sword.it would kill him for good."
His last words captured my attention greatly. ".Yes.that is possible.that he, being indestructible in himself.could be destroyed by something; namely his sword, that is indestructible."
A cloak of silence took us over, as each of us pondered the idea, and the possibility of its working.
"Well.", said Chikorai, pausing. "I'm willing to risk my life to save Dixie from Raiford's grubby paws, and to save Uisuki from a being as evil as Jigoku."
I nodded in admiration of his bravery, and agreed to follow in his footsteps.
We looked to Aijin for a decision on her part. She grinned in an almost impish way. "Well, of course I'm going! Everyone knows men can't do anything without women."
"What?", I roared, "the world would be a lot better if it weren't for women.especially women like you."
She smiled blatantly. "Oh, really? Funny how my livelihood revolves around helping men that are too pathetic to get a girlfriend on their own.", she started to laugh, "and you say men don't need women's help! You should see some of the guys I've worked with.heh, let me tell ya.there was this one named Stephen." (LOL ROFL!!!! JK!! Sorry Stephen I just had to do that. Don't worry this won't be in the final print. ()
"Grr! Will you cut that out!", I growled demandingly. "Are you coming or not?"
Aijin rolled her eyes at me and sighed. "Yeah, yeah, yeah, sure.I'll go help ya get the sword no one's found, defeat Uisuki's most powerful demon, and uh, oh yeah, help Chiko over here rescue that anorexic chick."
Chikorai glanced at me anxiously, "What's a chick? Certainly, Dixie isn't some kind of bird. And what's anorexic? ", he looked to Aijin angrily, "If its some kind of dinosaur. I'll be sure and get you with that sword when we find it."
Aijin burst out laughing, Chikorai (once again) looked confused, and I.well, I looked on hopelessly with a sweat drop formed on the side of my head. I sighed. WE, US, (from the looks of it, the three stooges) were going to try and save the planet. Well, I thought to myself, this.should be interesting.
************************ The furry Crawgon's tall slender ears perked up timidly, as Dixie started to question Jigoku about his strength and seemingly dominant behavior over the Crawgons.
"How in the world did you just get those Crawgons to hand you over this boy? And more importantly, how did you knock a Crawgon to the ground with just one punch? Those things are monstrously strong!"
Jigoku searched for a creditable answer unsteadily. "Um, well, like I told you.I uh, have connections. They realized who I was and handed the little one over to me."
"That may be true;" she answered. "but that doesn't explain how you hit that Crawgon so hard."
Jigoku looked at the small Crawgon, and hoped he wouldn't have the stupidity to correct his lies. "Well," he replied, "that shot was really out of pure luck. I was surprised myself."
Dixie accepted his answer skeptically, she knew he was hiding something. She just needed to find out what.
Next, the beautiful girl picked up the Crawgon and sat him on seat with a smile. She noted his ragged gray shirt and black cloak. She stared into his nervous golden eyes, and grasped his paw. "Its ok little one, you're safe now. Those mean old Crawgons can't hurt you anymore.", she paused. "Now, tell me, how did a sweet little Doggon like you end up in a place like this?"
The Crawgon looked as if he was going to speak, but then stared down dejectedly with watery eyes.
Jigoku interrupted as Dixie tried to apologize for making him cry.
"He's not a Doggon. Look at the white cloth draped around his neck."
Dixie picked up the piece of cloth that almost went to his knees. Painted on it was the symbol for Doggon with an X marked over it. (*note* The Doggon symbol with one slash through it is the symbol for Crawgon.)
She turned to Jigoku quizzically. "I don't understand.is he half and half?"
The Crawgon shook his head, and Jigoku answered for him.
"No, he's a Crawgon alright; just a white one. Never has there been a white Crawgon, so, in white being a symbol of purity, the Crawgons created that as a symbol of betrayal, or abnormality."
Dixie looked to the Crawgon sympathetically. "So that's why they were hurting you."
He nodded innocently.
"Whats your name?", she asked.
"Kyoto Quaziihito."
Dixie giggled. "What a cute name, it suits you."
Kyoto blushed with a weak smile. "What's your name?"
"Dixie. And this over here is Raiford."
Kyoto tried to avoid eye contact with the imposter. He knew the monster's true identity, but was plenty smart enough to know not to tell the truth just yet.
"So, how old are you?", Dixied continued to question.
"Twelve." He answered. "My parents and I have been trying to hide from the other Crawgons since I was born. They knew if they ever found us we'd be dead for sure. If.Raiford", he stammered. "hadn't have saved me, I'd probably be dead."
Jigoku grinned at the young Crawgon. Smart move short-stuff.called me Raiford, hmph.
Dixie's eyes grew teary. "Aw, that's just awful. Where are your parents now?", she asked unsteadily.
Kyoto started to wipe the steady stream of tears from his eyes. "They were hung two days ago. We-we were coming out of out hiding in the swamp for food, when a Crawgon spotted me. My parents ordered me to turn around and run home while they dealt with the situation. I saw them grab my mom and dad, as they sent another Crawgon after me. They caught me shortly, and the next day killed my parents right in front of me, telling me I was next."
Dixie gave Kyoto her hankerchief and tried to comfort him.
"I'm so sorry. I wish we could have come and helped sooner. But, don't worry, you're with us now, we won't let anything bad happen to you. Will we Raiford?" she hugged the boy closely.
Jigoku gritted his teeth in envy. "No.of course not. He'll be perfectly safe with us."
Just then, Sham, the carriage driver turned around and poked his head through the window to the driver's seat. "Mr. Raleigh, take a look out the window, we're close to the Crawgon castle."
The three passengers stared out the windows.
Dixie ad Kyoto looked on in awe at the massive structure. It was composed of three, humongous towers, and an enormous bottom floor. The stones were black and weathered after centuries of use, and moss (the only living vegetation around) abounded in numerous places all over the castle.
The clip clop of the Umaraion's (an animal half horse half lion) hooves switched sounds as it began to travel over the beaten wood bridge leading to the Crawgon's royal living quarters, as well, as the supposed 'insane and maniacal' Chikorai.
The carriage pulled up to the castle gates, and Jigoku got out to speak with the guards. As he approached, the four armored Crawgons pointed their spears towards him in hostility.
"Come now gentlemen, there's no need to draw weapons here. I am your master, and king, Jigoku; now if you'll kindly step aside."
The Crawgons doubted his credibility severely, and growled at him while jabbing their spears.
"Liar!", said one. "You're a human!"
Jigoku grabbed him by the throat, and pulled him close to his face, as it shifted into a more demonic form. "Don't let my human form deceive you.". he hissed. The other guards stumbled back in fear.
He set the Crawgon down brusquely. "Now! Do as I say, and open the gate. And get me Captain Onaji; I must see him at once." The petrified guards, nodded, as two went to get Onaji, and two opened the huge steel gates.
Jigoku climbed back into the carriage with a calm demeanor.
Dixie eyed him suspiciously. There was some type of power he seemed to hold with the Crawgons, and she was determined to find out what.
The carriage entered into a small area surrounded with stone. It was sort of a parking lot before going to the throne room.
Jigoku asked Sham to stay with the carriage, and promised him they wouldn't be long.
Kyoto nervously insisted on waiting with Sham, but Dixie told him it'd be better for him to go with her.
A large red door with gold designs around it representing destruction, lead to the throne room, where the now dead Ganko once sat.
The three entered the massive chamber, where they were greeted by practically every Crawgon in the Castle; Captain Onaji stood before them all, awaiting Jigoku's arrival.
Onaji was tall, and dark with mysterious green eyes. He was bigger, stonger, and smarter than most of those present; the only exception being a captured Doggon scientist named Iyashii.
Jigoku met the Captain in the center of the room, crowd behind him, and shook his monstrous black paw.
Onaji kneeled to his guest and bowed his head. "Welcome back." He spoke in a deep voice, as he rose to his feet.
The crowd behind him howled and cheered wildly.
Kyoto and Dixie clung to one another tightly. Dixie's mind raced. What is going on here? , she thought. The snowy Crawgon next to her knew the answer, but he wouldn't dare say anything right now.
Jigoku smiled at the Captain slyly. "I have one request.", he paused.
"Anything your majesty.", replied Onaji.
Dixie's eyes widened, in fear, and confusion. MAJESTY??!!
"Take me to the dungeon I have guests I must show to prisoner Chikorai." said Jigoku demandingly.
Suddenly, Onaji's, as well, as the crowd's face turned to worry and fear.
"I, um, I'm afraid I can't do that."
"What? Why?", Jigoku replied, trying to hide his anger for Dixie's sake.
"Three of our prisoners escaped last night with the help of a guard.and one of them was Chikorai."
A voice from the crowd spoke up. "But don't worry about the guard, we took care of him!", he laughed. The crowd chuckled along with him.
Onaji looked nervous.
Jigoku gritted his teeth. "What were the names of the other two prisoners?"
"Aijin Akuma, and Iyogi Kai."
Dixie began to panic; Aijin Akuma was the Kitsune princess.and Iyogi Kai that sounded familiar too. As she stared into the evil faces of the Crawgon crowd she wished she had never come to this awful place.
Jigoku nodded. "I see.have you sent out a search party?"
"No sir, they headed out into the swamp." Onaji answered hopefully.
Jigoku hung his head, faking sadness and regret, as he turned to Dixie. "Miss Dixie.you do know what the swamp is.don't you?"
She shook her head timidly.
"The swamp is a place filled with over-sized animals.some of which are very deadly. No one's ever made it out alive.so you may as well count Chikorai as a dead fugitive."
Tears began to stream down her face. "No! I will not believe it. Chikorai's not dead!"
Jigoku wrapped his arm around her. "No, maybe not yet, but the chances of him making it out alive are very slim, even if he does have the help of some fellow prisoners."
As Dixie began to sob, Kyoto hugged her waist, in effort to comfort her. He had no idea who Chikorai or any of the others were, but he had the unnerving feeling that they were innocent people taken advantage of by the Crawgon government. Just like him and his parents. He had an idea that would help his new and only friend, but it would have to wait until they left.
Jigoku turned to the crowd. "What are you staring at? Leave!", he barked.
Pandemonium broke out amongst them, as they scattered in different directions to escape; soon, the room was empty save the three.
A dark silence fell upon them.
"Maybe.", said Jigoku softly. "we should just leave. We can discuss this later. I'm so sorry Dixie, I wanted you to see Chikorai." The demon glanced down, suddenly noticing a bright red stone hanging from a leather necklace about Kyoto's neck. Something about it seemed familiar he just needed to find out what.
"It doesn't matter anymore.you tried Raif, that's all that counts. At least now I know where he is." Dixie burst into tears again.
Kyoto's blameless eyes went misty. It hurt him to see her cry like that.
The two men lead her out quietly; they needed to be home by nightfall.
************************
After a very short while of riding in the carriage Kyoto tugged at Dixie's dress, and motioned for her to lean closer. Jigoku studied the two charily, as Kyoto quickly whispered something into her ear.
"Excuse me, Raiford, could you stop the carriage for a moment?", she asked shakily.
He eyed her with skepticism. "Why? We need to be home before dark."
Dixie fumed slightly. "Raiford just stop the carriage!"
Jigoku rolled his eyes, as he got Sham's attention, and asked him to stop the carriage.
The vehicle came to rolling halt, and Kyoto and Dixie opened the door, and climbed out.
"What are you doing?" Jigoku asked impatiently.
Dixie furrowed her brow. "Just hold on a minute!" She slammed the door and turned to Kyoto. "Ok, now that we have captain insano out of the way, what's this super- duper plan of yours to save Chikorai?"
"Well,", he said excitedly, "I've lived in that swamp all my life, and survived perfectly fine with my parents. I know every nook and cranny of the place, and can take on any animal they might encounter; so, if you'll let me, I can go now, back to our cabin in the swamp and search for them. I promise you I can bring them back to the Doggon empire safely."
Kyoto's words were skeptical to her; but did she have any other choice? Could this little boy really bring Chikorai and the others back? But; also, what if Chikorai really had turned into an insane killer? She just couldn't live with herself if anything happened to this innocent little Crawgon.
Dixie's eyes grew teary. "Kyoto, that's very brave of you, but how can I know you'll be safe?"
Kyoto reached under the white cloth across his chest, and showed her the crimson stone necklace.
"Wow, Kyoto, that's beautiful. What is it?", she asked.
"This is the Stone of Rakkii. My dad gave it to me for my twelfth birthday. He said, that when this stone is dipped into Rakkii lake it turns into a twisted staff with the stone atop it. Its said to contain unknown magical powers, and abilities.but it can only be used by those that are pure of heart. Since I am the only Crawgon ever born, without evil in his heart, it just has to work. Rakkii lake is located in the swamp, I've seen it dozens of times, and I know that if I dip the stone into it, I will have its protection. Miss Dixie, you have to trust me."
The uncertain woman stared into his bright, hopeful eyes. She had no choice.
Dixie grasped his furry paws. "Ok Kyoto, I trust you. But you have to come back safe you hear me?"
He nodded exuberantly. "I won't let you down." They gave one another a long hug good-bye, and Kyoto whispered to her.
"Dixie, whatever you do, don't make Jigoku mad."
Her confusion mounted, but by the time she could ask what he meant by that Kyoto Quaziihito took off running into the distance. Dixie could see a dark forest-like place a few acres away that she assumed to be the swamp.
She climbed back into the carriage warily, as she watched Kyoto disappear from her sight.
Jigoku began to question her gruffly about the recent turn of events, but Dixie just ignored him with her usual contempt.
I just pray he'll be ok, she thought. Also. I pray he finds Chikorai, so we can clear his name. Somehow.I get the nagging feeling that Chikorai is innocent, that he didn't commit any of the crimes charged against him, and that someone else did.
The troubled woman glared at Jigoku in anger and distrust. There had to be a good reason those Crawgons feared and reverend him so much.she just needed to find out what that 'reason' was. And why did Kyoto say not to make Jigoku mad? He was just a legendary demon.wasn't he?
