Disclaimer: Jadej.j and Wingzero do not own any characters, except for
Gohan, Kitsune, Mishu, and Atsu.
Note: ^^U Sorry if there's any OOC. We try.
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Our Little Japanese Corner.
Baka: Idiot
Ero: Pervert
Itai yo: That hurts! Or It hurts!
Kappa: Water sprite
Kitsune: Fox
Mou: Too many translations.
Sanzo: A high ranking Buddha priest. (or at least we think so. *checks Japanese dictionary*)
Saru: Monkey
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Gohan's staff hit the floor. "Enough. He will not hurt anyone." The young Sanzo glared at the people in the room. "He still has his limiter on." The air seemed to become thick with energy. "He is my friend and protector. If you have a problem with that, take it up with the Gods." Gohan then walked over to an empty table. "Kitsune?" He looked back at his friend.
The people went back to whatever they were doing; however, they murmured something to each other. Kitsune hung his head in shame. It wasn't his fault he was born a demon, a rather weak one in his opinion, but nevertheless, he heeded Gohan's call and padded quietly over to the table before sitting down.
A girl came over to the strange pair. "And what would you two like?" She smiled but Gohan knew she was scared of his companion.
"Everything you have on the menu. My friend is very hungry." Gohan put the gold card down on the table. Being a Sanzo wasn't that bad at times.
The fox demon finally looked up from the table. He smelled fear, radiating off the young girl. As much as he wanted a friend around his age, he knew she would run away before he got the chance to say a few words. Upon hearing the word food, he perked up immediately and a smile returned to his face.
The girl nodded and hurried to the kitchen. "Don't worry Kitsune. We'll eat and then get what we need for our departure." Gohan smiled.
"Let's see we'll need medical supplies, food, plenty of rope, sleeping bags, more food, transportation, ropes, more food," Kitsune ticked off on his fingers. With the limiter on, he had normal human ears, hands, and teeth. When it was off, he had white fox ears, a white tail, very sharp fangs, and claws.
Gohan just smiled. If Kitsune wasn't fighting or sleeping he always talked about food. Moments later, the woman came back with their food. Gohan took his part of the meal, which was small. "Enjoy." The woman then disappeared in a flash.
Even though the fox demon ate a lot compared to most humans and demons, he at least had good table manners, which wasn't the case when Gohan found him. He learned quickly after the many lessons. "Which village are we heading after this one?"
Gohan closed his green eyes. "I'm not sure but we must find a temple. I must find out why the demons have been coming after me." Deep down Gohan knew the Sutras he had on his shoulders. "Let's finish up and get what we need on this trip." Gohan munched on his meal.
Kitsune nodded his head. He knew that demons would come after Gohan's sutras and maybe the sanzo himself. Rumor said that if a demon ate a sanzo he or she would be given immortality, not that Kitsune wanted to try. "Will I have to stay outside?" He knew he wasn't welcomed in most temples or cities for that matter.
"I don't know." Gohan was ashamed that other monks had turn their backs on his friend. "I just want some information. After I get it, we will leave." He squeezed Kitsune's shoulder.
"Oh okay," Kitsune said before returning back to his lunch. He watched as the other people chatting about anything, but mostly about the recent demon activities. A few of them glared at the fox demon. He didn't react to it as they were obviously no match for him, true form or not.
Gohan rolled his green eyes. Why would people think that every demon would want to kill them but as of late demons have been killing everyone they came across? He wanted to know why though. Gohan looked down at his hands: his blood. He had some demon blood in him but it was only ΒΌ . He frowned. "I need to know why, Kitsune...I must find out."
The fox demon finished his meal within a record amount of time as he wanted to get out of there. The air was heavy with alcohol, cigarettes, and fear. He hated it when people feared him for being who he was. Licking the crumbs off the plate, he made sure to eat every last bit of his meal. Who knew if they were going to reach the next town within a day and might have to use rations? "I'm finished."
Gohan was a bit slower but he was soon done. The woman came back and Gohan pay off the bill. "Time to go then." He stood up and headed for the door.
Kitsune bounded after the sanzo, eager to step out into the fresh air. Once out of the restaurant, he took a deep breath and smiled. "No more foul odors."
Gohan nodded. "I just don't understand some people. Sure a smoke, a drink once in awhile but to drink your life away is a waste."
As Kitsune wasn't very familiar with this area, he knew he would easily get lost. He turned his only friend and family. "I never did understand humans. Someone around here should know the directions unless you do?"
A smile crossed Gohan's face. "Well I know we have to go west but other than that..."
Golden eyes scanned the people passing by. He finally settled on one person, milling his way through them. "We can ask him." The person being pointed out just so happened to be one of the local monks. From the looks of it, he seemed to be an apprentice, going on runs for his master.
Gohan's green eyes followed Kitsune's finger. "Sounds like a plan." Gohan moved swiftly to the monk. "Excuse me."
The monk apprentice turned around to greet the sanzo. "Greetings, sanzo- sama. We are honored and humbled by your presence." He was about to ask for a sermon but his eyes locked onto golden ones and he paled considerably.
Gohan paled himself. 'Why did the gods make me a Sanzo.?' "Greetings. My guardian and I need information about all the demon's attacks. I wonder if your elders would know any thing."
"Of... Of ... course," the monk apprentice stuttered, trying to sound coherent. "My masters are currently at the temple, offering their prayer to the gods." He shifted uneasily as the fox demon looked at him very curiously.
"Kitsune is my protector. He has his limiter on at all times." Gohan pointed to the gold necklace. "And of course he listens to me and would never disobey me at all."
"If you say so," the monk apprentice said hesitantly. "Please come this way. The temple isn't far and I must return to my duties. We're rather busy, but I'm sure my master is willing to make time for you." He motioned for the two to follow him.
"I will not take too much of your master's time. I promise." Gohan stepped in behind the monk apprentice. "I do have a question for you though."
"You may ask, but I cannot guarantee an answer, though I will try my best to give you what you need," the monk apprentice replied with a small smile. He was still in training but he kept up with the local evens and such. It was important to know the world around, because one way or another, it was going to affect his life.
"Where would I find some good camping stuff? I need some sleeping bags that would keep us dry if it rains." Gohan walked along the path behind the monk.
"Ah, that I can answer," the monk apprentice replied as he lead the two to the temple. "If you continue further down the road our temple is at, you'll find a nice shop to purchase your supplies at a fair price," he took a glance over at the demon, trailing behind the sanzo, "though it is not wise for you to bring him inside. You see the owner of the shop lost his wife to a rogue demon. He still remains bitter about it. We tried consoling him, but he wouldn't listen to us."
Gohan looked at his friend. "I understand that. I lost my master to some rogue demons but it was Kitsune that brought me out of my sorrow." He lowered his head. "I would have gone mad or worst."
The monk apprentice looked rather shocked but calmed himself when they approached the gates to the temple. "It's good to have friends." He opened the gates and directed them to where the other monks had gathered after their prayer. "I must be on my way. A pleasure making your acquaintance." With a bow, he left them to the other monks.
Gohan returned the bow. "May the Merciful Goddess look after you." He then headed over to the other monks.
The rest of the monks were discussing the recent demon activities and the message the kami's servant gave. None of them could make heads or tails about it. The oldest monk there, as there was no sanzo around, took charge of the situation as there were a few verbal disputes concerning the interpretation.
Gohan walked closer to the group. "Good day to you all."
The monks greeted Gohan with a respectful bow, but they were rather shocked at his companion.
The oldest monk there stepped out from the group and addressed the young sanzo. "Greetings sanzo-sama, what brings you to our humble temple?"
"I am passing through and I'm need of supplies as well I wish to know more about the demon's attacks." Gohan watch the monk's reactions.
"I thought you might inquire about it," the older monk said, rubbing his chin and thinking a few things through. "I need to take care of assigning tasks, but in the meantime, Atsu," he motioned over towards one of the younger monks, "will show you to my studies."
The young monk nervously stepped forward to meet the sanzo and his companion. He was anxious to meet the sanzo, but at the same time, he was scared of the demon.
"Don't worry about my friend. He will never disobey me and his limiter is still on." He motioned towards to the gold necklace.
"Of course, sanzo-sama," Atsu bowed a bit awkwardly. He gestured for the two to follow him.
Gohan followed Atsu. "Do you know any thing about these attacks?"
"They have been increasing for the past week," Atsu answered the question to the best of his ability. The elders hadn't let him on much of the information. "Earlier this month, there were a few random attacks, but it was nothing new. As the days went by, the number had increased steadily. Most of the townspeople are on alert and tension is high. Once we had four attacks in one day."
Gohan shook his head. "What is going on? I don't like this at all." He closed his green eyes and listened to the wind for a moment. "I hope to find away to stop this trouble in some way."
"We have been trying to locate the reason behind this mess," Atsu sighed. He wished he could help the elders. "My master and the other elders often discuss such matters without the presence of us young monks. I have recently graduated from my apprenticeship and became a full fledged monk."
"That's good to hear. I have some bad news to tell the elders but that can wait for now." Gohan shivered from the memory of his own master dying in front of him as the light took him away. "I just need to know which way to go to stop this evil."
"I hope you find a way and if you need it not that you would, I'm willing to help gather information for you," Atsu volunteered. He turned down a hallway and stood in front of a set of heavy oak doors. "This is my master's studies." Even though he wasn't an apprentice, he still called the elder monk his master. Some habits were hard to get rid of.
"Thank you, Atsu. Kitsune and I might have to do this alone though. I've seen too much death even at my age." The young Sanzo touched his chest. "Too much blood." He turned and entered the studies.
The studies had a two book cases full of books and scrolls. They were hazardously thrown onto the shelves as hardly anyone had time to organize them. Besides, in times like these, many people couldn't afford to keep their houses neat and tidy. The elder monk had attempted to keep his study somewhat clean, but even he had his limits. To one side, there was a desk with several papers scattered on it. An inkwell and a pen sat on top of the papers. A stamp with a pad stood off to one side. In behind the desk, there was a plush chair. In front, a ew chairs stood for guests to sit in. Near the book cases, there was a small couch and a tall lamp.
Kitsune watched as Atsu bowed and say a formal farewell before leaving.
"Sorry for sounding so dark..." Gohan walked over to the couch and sat down.
"Do you think he would mind if I sat down?" Kitsune inquired while standing up. The people here clearly expressed their dislike or hatred for demons.
Smiling Gohan moved over and pat the couch. "I don't mind at all my friend."
Kitsune grinned and bounded over there before taking a seat next to his friend. "I wonder what's taking him so long." It was boring to wait for others.
Gohan yawned, so much had happen to him and so fast as well. "He has many things to do first, Kitsune. He must make sure everything is in order before he sees me."
Kitsune nodded his head. The monk seemed to be in charge of the temple and the other monks. It was then he felt something faint. He glanced over to his friend to see if he noticed it too.
Gohan had stood up. "Kuso!" He quickly exited the room as he needed to know what the hell was going on.
"Wait for me~!" Kitsune cried out as he stumbled to catch up with his friend's sudden movements. He felt youki in the area, moving at a fast rate.
"I think they found me." Gohan's face paled for a moment. "I don't want another temple to burn because of me."
Kitsune tilted his head in curiosity. He knew he sensed youki but it didn't seem to be threatening. "Don't you think we should wait?"
Gohan felt strange for a moment. "I don't know." He shook his head. The blue hair fell into his eyes. "I don't know any more."
Moments of silence passed.
Gohan took a breath. "If these demons were attacking we would have heard something by now." Green eyes look at Kitsune. ____________________________________________________________________________ __
"Mou..... are we there?" Goku whined from the back of the jeep, only to be rewarded with a smack from the paper fan of doom as he thought it to be. "Itai yo!"
The group had stopped outside of the temple, but being the bakasaru he was, Goku didn't think it was one.
Hakkai sweat dropped. "Now let's see if any one will talk to us." He headed up the temple steps.
"Baka Saru. We don't have time to go eat." Gojyo headed after Hakkai.
Goku glared at the hanyou. "Who ever said I was hungry? I was going to pass out from your foul odor!" With that, the saru ran behind Sanzo, using him as a human shield.
Sanzo merely rolled his eyes and knocked on the door.
Hakkai smiled as Gojyo shouted at Goku. "I would have taken a bath but no you took the whole water hole for your self."
The doors opened wide, cutting off any retort the saru had. A young monk stood there, his eyes wide and his jaw literally on the floor. Not too long ago, another sanzo had visited their little temple.
"You should close your mouth before you attract any bugs," Sanzo said, looking at the shocked monk. He glared at his companions, meaning for them to be quiet especially the baka saru. "We heard another sanzo was in the area."
"Yes, he is," Atsu stuttered. He had led the two to his master's studies. "He's here if you would like to speak to him." He moved aside to let Sanzo and co through the door.
Gojyo smirked. He had won in a sense one of his and Goku's arguments.
Hakkai was behind Sanzo. "We are in luck then aren't we to find the other Sanzo..." His voice stopped. A teen was standing in the room with another youkai beside him.
Gojyo had hit Goku's head as he entered the room. "So what do we have?"
Sanzo looked over at the other sanzo and the youkai near him. The limiter looked similar to his saru's but it was a choker or a necklace. "So you must be the other sanzo we've been hearing about?"
Goku meanwhile was in a staring contest with the other youkai. The pair of golden eyes looked at each other with curiosity. Hakuryu had perched himself on Hakkai's shoulder and was dozing off after having traveled for such a long distance.
Gohan didn't take note of Sanzo yet. It was the other youkai he wanted to know. He heard Sanzo speak to him. "I guess so...who are your companions?" He had to hold back a giggle at how both gold eyes youkai were acting. "This is Kitsune." He moved his hand to his friend's shoulder.
Gojyo looked at the young Sanzo. "Man, he's just a kid what kind of trick is this?"
Hakkai for once stared at his friend. "Now Gojyo let him explain his state first."
Sanzo twitched and held his trusty gun at Gojyo's head, point blank. "You will not say a single word while I talk with him. I don't want him to be getting the wrong ideas. Do you understand?" He needed answers, but knowing the hanyou's big mouth, he wasn't going to get much if Gojyo didn't shut up.
Goku grinned like an idiot. He wasn't alone. The other youkai had a limiter like his.
"Hi, I'm Goku." He already knew the other's name so he didn't ask for it. "The pervert with the red hair and foul odor is Gojyo. The nice one over there is Hakkai. Hakuryu is the small dragon." He pointed towards his sun. "That's my sun, Sanzo."
"Please just call me Gohan. Good to meet you Goku, Gojyo, Hakkai and," Gohan had move over to Hakkai. "Hello Hakuryu." He reached out to rub the small dragon's head. Gohan smile brightened. Hakkai had to smile at Gohan. Gojyo on the other hand growl at Sanzo.
The elder sanzo removed his gun from Gojyo's head and placed it back in his robes. "You wouldn't happen to know who's in charge of here." He glanced over at the two golden eye youkai who were currently playing with each other in their carefree ways. As much as he wanted to speak to the other sanzo and the head monk, he didn't want Goku to be hyperactive during the meeting.
"That would be my master," Atsu spoke up. He decided to step out of the conversation as he noticed the other sanzo had a gun, a rather large one too.
Gohan turned and looked at the elder Sanzo. "How did you know I was in the area?" Green eyes look into violet eyes.
Gojyo lean up against the wall. He wasn't in the mood to argue with Sanzo at the moment. He didn't want his head blown off either. He just huffed and went to light a smoke.
"Let's say a little birdie in the form of a demon told us," Sanzo replied. "This was the nearest town at our previous location so we thought we'd check it out." He glanced over to Atsu. "Where is your master?"
"If you follow me, I'll show you," Atsu replied. He didn't know why Gohan was out here when he already led him to his master's studies.
Gohan nodded. "I'm sorry I left your master's studies but when Kitsune felt youkai's energy nearby. I just didn't want to see another temple being burn to the ground." He lowered his head.
Gojyo lit the smoke.
Hakkai could feel the sadness in Gohan suddenly. "Come let's go see the elder monk then."
Atsu looked at the two younger youkai play fighting. "Are they coming too?" He didn't want to see his master's studies in ruins with their aggressive playing.
Sanzo merely shrugged. He didn't care whether or not the saru was with him. Also he didn't want any distractions.
"Kitsune, why don't you and Goku remain here for a moment? So you two can get to know each better." Gohan remained beside Hakkai.
"Okay," Kitsune chirped and ran after Goku.
The blonde haired sanzo watched as the two played in the courtyard. The saru had better not get into any trouble. On the other hand, this was a way for the baka to release his excess energy. "Let's go." He turned and followed Atsu.
"I'll stay here and watch the monkey." Gojyo blew a puff of smoke.
Gohan look up at Hakkai. "Coming?"
A small smile crossed Hakkai's face. "Sure." Gohan and Hakkai followed Sanzo and the monk.
Again Atsu showed the visitors the way to his master's study. "He'll be here any minute now. The last time I saw him, he was giving the last orders of the day out."
Sanzo nodded his head in acknowledgement and took a seat on one of the chairs, ignoring the others.
Gohan sat down on the couch again. Hakkai sat down beside Sanzo. "At least Goku made a friend today."
"Then maybe that saru wouldn't be pestering me as much," Sanzo snorted. He wanted to smoke a cigarette, but he didn't want to ruin this nice place or did he?
"Why do you call Goku a monkey?" Gohan asked.
Hakkai rubbed the back of his head and let out a small laugh. "Why don't you tell him Sanzo?"
Why did he call Goku a saru? "It's none of your business why I call him that," Sanzo turned away to look out the window.
"I'm sorry." Gohan sigh. "Kitsune is a fox demon. I just never heard of a monkey demon before..." His voice was small. Hakkai looked at Sanzo.
"What?" Sanzo asked his only companion out of their strangely assembled group without turning around. He was only being himself, cold and distant. Why should he act differently?
Hakkai said nothing. Gohan was confused. "Isn't Goku your friend?"
"He's my charge," Sanzo replied with a voice that meant he didn't want to further into this topic.
Hakkai sighed inside. "How did you end up with Kitsune?" He looked at Gohan, changing the topic away from a volatile one.
The blue hair, green eye Sanzo was playing with the Sutra on his shoulder. He looked up at Hakkai. "I found him when I was at my lowest point in my life. He helped me get out of that dark mood. I still had my master's blood on my robes..." His eyes turned darker.
The door opened and the elder monk stepped into the room. He scanned the other's postures and attitude, for physical communication. The older sanzo was obviously ticked off and wasn't in the mood for long conversation by the way he was looking out the window. The younger sanzo had either told a painful even or was thinking about it. The other seemed to be more neutral. The dragon of course was still napping on Hakkai's shoulder. "Please excuse my tardiness. There has been too much tasks and not enough help."
Gohan snapped out of his dark mood. "That's alright. Thank you for fitting us into your busy time." The young Sanzo stood up and bow. "I came here to find out about the demon's attacks and to get some camping gear for me and my company, Kitsune." Gohan sat back down.
Hakkai nodded. "Yes thank you for the time."
Sanzo tore his eyes away from the window to look at the elder monk, though he said nothing. He wasn't much of a conversationalist anyways and his companion would understand.
"Yes, I've heard from Atsu you wanted information," the older monk stated. He sat down in his customary seat behind his desk. Flexing his finger, he leaned back in his chair. "My name is Mishu. Don't ask where my colleagues picked up that nickname for me, but I guess it stuck. Anyways, as you know we have been having trouble with the surrounding youkai lately. The increase started about a week ago. I think they might be looking for something or someone. They haven't given us a real answer as to why they target our small town."
Gohan lowered his head. "It's me. I think they are looking for..." His voice became small again. He hated being mark by the demons. "Sanzo...do you know why the demons are after people like us?"
Hakkai was in a bit of shock. He realized Gohan had no idea what had been going on with Sutras.
"They are after our sutras," Sanzo replied with a cold voice. He too hated being targeted by rogue demons, but that couldn't be helped. His former master had given him the sutras before dying, making him the next sanzo. "There is also a rumor as well. If a demon eats a sanzo, he or she will gain immortality. There's also that reason."
"But unknown to the demons that just a rumor." Hakkai put up his finger. "Remember Renli she ate a Sanzo and you killed her easy."
Gohan blinked. "Does that mean Sanzo and I are the last sanzos?"
"I doubt it," Sanzo replied with a snort. "There's at five around the world. So there must be at least two more, I would think." He glanced over to Mishu.
"I do not know the exact numbers, but I think he's right," Mishu placed his arms down on the desk. "There have been rumors about powerful youkai that need limiters in order to stay sane. Let's hope we don't encounter any of them."
Hakuryu stirred on Hakkai's shoulder. He chirped and nuzzled his cheeks, meaning he wanted to be let out.
Gohan looked at the white dragon. "Hello.." He smiled.
Hakkai smiled too. "Okay Hakuryu I'll let you out." He stood up and opened the door to let the small dragon out. "You go check on Gojyo and Goku okay?"
The dragon/jeep chirped with enthusiasm before taking off and flying down the hallway at a fast rate. A monk nearly fell over just as the little dragon passed over him.
Hakkai smiled and waved at the monk. He then slipped back into the room.
Gohan pull on his robes. He was still confused about some things. "Why would they want the Sutras?"
"I wouldn't have any ideas," Mishu shook his head. He wasn't a sanzo; therefore, he had no knowledge of it. He glanced over to the other sanzo, hoping he would shed some light on this issue.
"Gyumao's revival."
Gohan's eyes widened. "Gods that's not good."
"We're on our way west to prevent it from happening, but we were sidetracked when we heard another sanzo was in this vicinity."
Gohan looked down at his lap. "So all those demons that been attack me want to use the Sutras to revive Gyumao." He felt his stomach twisting inside him. Hakkai noted Gohan was not looking so good now.
"They have been attacking sanzos or at least I believe them to be," Sanzo spoke up. He noticed Mishu had been awfully quiet. The monk must have not known about such things. "Either you get used to it or hand over your sutras to someone who can and I'm not saying to me either. I have enough on my hands as it is." He could be tactful when he wanted to but he needed to make a point and if it took a good punch to make Gohan get out of his self pity, then he would volunteer.
"I already have two Sutras...I was with my master when he was visiting another Sanzo..." The blue hair teen took a breath. "He made me a Sanzo as a demon ripped him in two. I was blinded by a light and woke up in a blood of his blood. It was raining hard..."
"You don't have to say more," Mishu said with sympathy. He didn't know what it was like to have his own master killed before his eyes. His master had died from old age and most likely, he will pass down his position as head monk to his former apprentice when he was old enough. "I take it you need supplies?"
Hakkai and Gohan nodded in union. Hakkai chuckled. "It seems we all need supplies."
"I would take you there myself, but as you can see, I'm literally swamped with work and papers," Mishu sighed and looked wistfully out the window. He wished it was the good old days, where they could take their time and have fun when they were finished with their tasks. "I hope you know where it is. If not, I'll point you in the right direction."
Note: ^^U Sorry if there's any OOC. We try.
____________________________________________________________________________ __
Our Little Japanese Corner.
Baka: Idiot
Ero: Pervert
Itai yo: That hurts! Or It hurts!
Kappa: Water sprite
Kitsune: Fox
Mou: Too many translations.
Sanzo: A high ranking Buddha priest. (or at least we think so. *checks Japanese dictionary*)
Saru: Monkey
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Gohan's staff hit the floor. "Enough. He will not hurt anyone." The young Sanzo glared at the people in the room. "He still has his limiter on." The air seemed to become thick with energy. "He is my friend and protector. If you have a problem with that, take it up with the Gods." Gohan then walked over to an empty table. "Kitsune?" He looked back at his friend.
The people went back to whatever they were doing; however, they murmured something to each other. Kitsune hung his head in shame. It wasn't his fault he was born a demon, a rather weak one in his opinion, but nevertheless, he heeded Gohan's call and padded quietly over to the table before sitting down.
A girl came over to the strange pair. "And what would you two like?" She smiled but Gohan knew she was scared of his companion.
"Everything you have on the menu. My friend is very hungry." Gohan put the gold card down on the table. Being a Sanzo wasn't that bad at times.
The fox demon finally looked up from the table. He smelled fear, radiating off the young girl. As much as he wanted a friend around his age, he knew she would run away before he got the chance to say a few words. Upon hearing the word food, he perked up immediately and a smile returned to his face.
The girl nodded and hurried to the kitchen. "Don't worry Kitsune. We'll eat and then get what we need for our departure." Gohan smiled.
"Let's see we'll need medical supplies, food, plenty of rope, sleeping bags, more food, transportation, ropes, more food," Kitsune ticked off on his fingers. With the limiter on, he had normal human ears, hands, and teeth. When it was off, he had white fox ears, a white tail, very sharp fangs, and claws.
Gohan just smiled. If Kitsune wasn't fighting or sleeping he always talked about food. Moments later, the woman came back with their food. Gohan took his part of the meal, which was small. "Enjoy." The woman then disappeared in a flash.
Even though the fox demon ate a lot compared to most humans and demons, he at least had good table manners, which wasn't the case when Gohan found him. He learned quickly after the many lessons. "Which village are we heading after this one?"
Gohan closed his green eyes. "I'm not sure but we must find a temple. I must find out why the demons have been coming after me." Deep down Gohan knew the Sutras he had on his shoulders. "Let's finish up and get what we need on this trip." Gohan munched on his meal.
Kitsune nodded his head. He knew that demons would come after Gohan's sutras and maybe the sanzo himself. Rumor said that if a demon ate a sanzo he or she would be given immortality, not that Kitsune wanted to try. "Will I have to stay outside?" He knew he wasn't welcomed in most temples or cities for that matter.
"I don't know." Gohan was ashamed that other monks had turn their backs on his friend. "I just want some information. After I get it, we will leave." He squeezed Kitsune's shoulder.
"Oh okay," Kitsune said before returning back to his lunch. He watched as the other people chatting about anything, but mostly about the recent demon activities. A few of them glared at the fox demon. He didn't react to it as they were obviously no match for him, true form or not.
Gohan rolled his green eyes. Why would people think that every demon would want to kill them but as of late demons have been killing everyone they came across? He wanted to know why though. Gohan looked down at his hands: his blood. He had some demon blood in him but it was only ΒΌ . He frowned. "I need to know why, Kitsune...I must find out."
The fox demon finished his meal within a record amount of time as he wanted to get out of there. The air was heavy with alcohol, cigarettes, and fear. He hated it when people feared him for being who he was. Licking the crumbs off the plate, he made sure to eat every last bit of his meal. Who knew if they were going to reach the next town within a day and might have to use rations? "I'm finished."
Gohan was a bit slower but he was soon done. The woman came back and Gohan pay off the bill. "Time to go then." He stood up and headed for the door.
Kitsune bounded after the sanzo, eager to step out into the fresh air. Once out of the restaurant, he took a deep breath and smiled. "No more foul odors."
Gohan nodded. "I just don't understand some people. Sure a smoke, a drink once in awhile but to drink your life away is a waste."
As Kitsune wasn't very familiar with this area, he knew he would easily get lost. He turned his only friend and family. "I never did understand humans. Someone around here should know the directions unless you do?"
A smile crossed Gohan's face. "Well I know we have to go west but other than that..."
Golden eyes scanned the people passing by. He finally settled on one person, milling his way through them. "We can ask him." The person being pointed out just so happened to be one of the local monks. From the looks of it, he seemed to be an apprentice, going on runs for his master.
Gohan's green eyes followed Kitsune's finger. "Sounds like a plan." Gohan moved swiftly to the monk. "Excuse me."
The monk apprentice turned around to greet the sanzo. "Greetings, sanzo- sama. We are honored and humbled by your presence." He was about to ask for a sermon but his eyes locked onto golden ones and he paled considerably.
Gohan paled himself. 'Why did the gods make me a Sanzo.?' "Greetings. My guardian and I need information about all the demon's attacks. I wonder if your elders would know any thing."
"Of... Of ... course," the monk apprentice stuttered, trying to sound coherent. "My masters are currently at the temple, offering their prayer to the gods." He shifted uneasily as the fox demon looked at him very curiously.
"Kitsune is my protector. He has his limiter on at all times." Gohan pointed to the gold necklace. "And of course he listens to me and would never disobey me at all."
"If you say so," the monk apprentice said hesitantly. "Please come this way. The temple isn't far and I must return to my duties. We're rather busy, but I'm sure my master is willing to make time for you." He motioned for the two to follow him.
"I will not take too much of your master's time. I promise." Gohan stepped in behind the monk apprentice. "I do have a question for you though."
"You may ask, but I cannot guarantee an answer, though I will try my best to give you what you need," the monk apprentice replied with a small smile. He was still in training but he kept up with the local evens and such. It was important to know the world around, because one way or another, it was going to affect his life.
"Where would I find some good camping stuff? I need some sleeping bags that would keep us dry if it rains." Gohan walked along the path behind the monk.
"Ah, that I can answer," the monk apprentice replied as he lead the two to the temple. "If you continue further down the road our temple is at, you'll find a nice shop to purchase your supplies at a fair price," he took a glance over at the demon, trailing behind the sanzo, "though it is not wise for you to bring him inside. You see the owner of the shop lost his wife to a rogue demon. He still remains bitter about it. We tried consoling him, but he wouldn't listen to us."
Gohan looked at his friend. "I understand that. I lost my master to some rogue demons but it was Kitsune that brought me out of my sorrow." He lowered his head. "I would have gone mad or worst."
The monk apprentice looked rather shocked but calmed himself when they approached the gates to the temple. "It's good to have friends." He opened the gates and directed them to where the other monks had gathered after their prayer. "I must be on my way. A pleasure making your acquaintance." With a bow, he left them to the other monks.
Gohan returned the bow. "May the Merciful Goddess look after you." He then headed over to the other monks.
The rest of the monks were discussing the recent demon activities and the message the kami's servant gave. None of them could make heads or tails about it. The oldest monk there, as there was no sanzo around, took charge of the situation as there were a few verbal disputes concerning the interpretation.
Gohan walked closer to the group. "Good day to you all."
The monks greeted Gohan with a respectful bow, but they were rather shocked at his companion.
The oldest monk there stepped out from the group and addressed the young sanzo. "Greetings sanzo-sama, what brings you to our humble temple?"
"I am passing through and I'm need of supplies as well I wish to know more about the demon's attacks." Gohan watch the monk's reactions.
"I thought you might inquire about it," the older monk said, rubbing his chin and thinking a few things through. "I need to take care of assigning tasks, but in the meantime, Atsu," he motioned over towards one of the younger monks, "will show you to my studies."
The young monk nervously stepped forward to meet the sanzo and his companion. He was anxious to meet the sanzo, but at the same time, he was scared of the demon.
"Don't worry about my friend. He will never disobey me and his limiter is still on." He motioned towards to the gold necklace.
"Of course, sanzo-sama," Atsu bowed a bit awkwardly. He gestured for the two to follow him.
Gohan followed Atsu. "Do you know any thing about these attacks?"
"They have been increasing for the past week," Atsu answered the question to the best of his ability. The elders hadn't let him on much of the information. "Earlier this month, there were a few random attacks, but it was nothing new. As the days went by, the number had increased steadily. Most of the townspeople are on alert and tension is high. Once we had four attacks in one day."
Gohan shook his head. "What is going on? I don't like this at all." He closed his green eyes and listened to the wind for a moment. "I hope to find away to stop this trouble in some way."
"We have been trying to locate the reason behind this mess," Atsu sighed. He wished he could help the elders. "My master and the other elders often discuss such matters without the presence of us young monks. I have recently graduated from my apprenticeship and became a full fledged monk."
"That's good to hear. I have some bad news to tell the elders but that can wait for now." Gohan shivered from the memory of his own master dying in front of him as the light took him away. "I just need to know which way to go to stop this evil."
"I hope you find a way and if you need it not that you would, I'm willing to help gather information for you," Atsu volunteered. He turned down a hallway and stood in front of a set of heavy oak doors. "This is my master's studies." Even though he wasn't an apprentice, he still called the elder monk his master. Some habits were hard to get rid of.
"Thank you, Atsu. Kitsune and I might have to do this alone though. I've seen too much death even at my age." The young Sanzo touched his chest. "Too much blood." He turned and entered the studies.
The studies had a two book cases full of books and scrolls. They were hazardously thrown onto the shelves as hardly anyone had time to organize them. Besides, in times like these, many people couldn't afford to keep their houses neat and tidy. The elder monk had attempted to keep his study somewhat clean, but even he had his limits. To one side, there was a desk with several papers scattered on it. An inkwell and a pen sat on top of the papers. A stamp with a pad stood off to one side. In behind the desk, there was a plush chair. In front, a ew chairs stood for guests to sit in. Near the book cases, there was a small couch and a tall lamp.
Kitsune watched as Atsu bowed and say a formal farewell before leaving.
"Sorry for sounding so dark..." Gohan walked over to the couch and sat down.
"Do you think he would mind if I sat down?" Kitsune inquired while standing up. The people here clearly expressed their dislike or hatred for demons.
Smiling Gohan moved over and pat the couch. "I don't mind at all my friend."
Kitsune grinned and bounded over there before taking a seat next to his friend. "I wonder what's taking him so long." It was boring to wait for others.
Gohan yawned, so much had happen to him and so fast as well. "He has many things to do first, Kitsune. He must make sure everything is in order before he sees me."
Kitsune nodded his head. The monk seemed to be in charge of the temple and the other monks. It was then he felt something faint. He glanced over to his friend to see if he noticed it too.
Gohan had stood up. "Kuso!" He quickly exited the room as he needed to know what the hell was going on.
"Wait for me~!" Kitsune cried out as he stumbled to catch up with his friend's sudden movements. He felt youki in the area, moving at a fast rate.
"I think they found me." Gohan's face paled for a moment. "I don't want another temple to burn because of me."
Kitsune tilted his head in curiosity. He knew he sensed youki but it didn't seem to be threatening. "Don't you think we should wait?"
Gohan felt strange for a moment. "I don't know." He shook his head. The blue hair fell into his eyes. "I don't know any more."
Moments of silence passed.
Gohan took a breath. "If these demons were attacking we would have heard something by now." Green eyes look at Kitsune. ____________________________________________________________________________ __
"Mou..... are we there?" Goku whined from the back of the jeep, only to be rewarded with a smack from the paper fan of doom as he thought it to be. "Itai yo!"
The group had stopped outside of the temple, but being the bakasaru he was, Goku didn't think it was one.
Hakkai sweat dropped. "Now let's see if any one will talk to us." He headed up the temple steps.
"Baka Saru. We don't have time to go eat." Gojyo headed after Hakkai.
Goku glared at the hanyou. "Who ever said I was hungry? I was going to pass out from your foul odor!" With that, the saru ran behind Sanzo, using him as a human shield.
Sanzo merely rolled his eyes and knocked on the door.
Hakkai smiled as Gojyo shouted at Goku. "I would have taken a bath but no you took the whole water hole for your self."
The doors opened wide, cutting off any retort the saru had. A young monk stood there, his eyes wide and his jaw literally on the floor. Not too long ago, another sanzo had visited their little temple.
"You should close your mouth before you attract any bugs," Sanzo said, looking at the shocked monk. He glared at his companions, meaning for them to be quiet especially the baka saru. "We heard another sanzo was in the area."
"Yes, he is," Atsu stuttered. He had led the two to his master's studies. "He's here if you would like to speak to him." He moved aside to let Sanzo and co through the door.
Gojyo smirked. He had won in a sense one of his and Goku's arguments.
Hakkai was behind Sanzo. "We are in luck then aren't we to find the other Sanzo..." His voice stopped. A teen was standing in the room with another youkai beside him.
Gojyo had hit Goku's head as he entered the room. "So what do we have?"
Sanzo looked over at the other sanzo and the youkai near him. The limiter looked similar to his saru's but it was a choker or a necklace. "So you must be the other sanzo we've been hearing about?"
Goku meanwhile was in a staring contest with the other youkai. The pair of golden eyes looked at each other with curiosity. Hakuryu had perched himself on Hakkai's shoulder and was dozing off after having traveled for such a long distance.
Gohan didn't take note of Sanzo yet. It was the other youkai he wanted to know. He heard Sanzo speak to him. "I guess so...who are your companions?" He had to hold back a giggle at how both gold eyes youkai were acting. "This is Kitsune." He moved his hand to his friend's shoulder.
Gojyo looked at the young Sanzo. "Man, he's just a kid what kind of trick is this?"
Hakkai for once stared at his friend. "Now Gojyo let him explain his state first."
Sanzo twitched and held his trusty gun at Gojyo's head, point blank. "You will not say a single word while I talk with him. I don't want him to be getting the wrong ideas. Do you understand?" He needed answers, but knowing the hanyou's big mouth, he wasn't going to get much if Gojyo didn't shut up.
Goku grinned like an idiot. He wasn't alone. The other youkai had a limiter like his.
"Hi, I'm Goku." He already knew the other's name so he didn't ask for it. "The pervert with the red hair and foul odor is Gojyo. The nice one over there is Hakkai. Hakuryu is the small dragon." He pointed towards his sun. "That's my sun, Sanzo."
"Please just call me Gohan. Good to meet you Goku, Gojyo, Hakkai and," Gohan had move over to Hakkai. "Hello Hakuryu." He reached out to rub the small dragon's head. Gohan smile brightened. Hakkai had to smile at Gohan. Gojyo on the other hand growl at Sanzo.
The elder sanzo removed his gun from Gojyo's head and placed it back in his robes. "You wouldn't happen to know who's in charge of here." He glanced over at the two golden eye youkai who were currently playing with each other in their carefree ways. As much as he wanted to speak to the other sanzo and the head monk, he didn't want Goku to be hyperactive during the meeting.
"That would be my master," Atsu spoke up. He decided to step out of the conversation as he noticed the other sanzo had a gun, a rather large one too.
Gohan turned and looked at the elder Sanzo. "How did you know I was in the area?" Green eyes look into violet eyes.
Gojyo lean up against the wall. He wasn't in the mood to argue with Sanzo at the moment. He didn't want his head blown off either. He just huffed and went to light a smoke.
"Let's say a little birdie in the form of a demon told us," Sanzo replied. "This was the nearest town at our previous location so we thought we'd check it out." He glanced over to Atsu. "Where is your master?"
"If you follow me, I'll show you," Atsu replied. He didn't know why Gohan was out here when he already led him to his master's studies.
Gohan nodded. "I'm sorry I left your master's studies but when Kitsune felt youkai's energy nearby. I just didn't want to see another temple being burn to the ground." He lowered his head.
Gojyo lit the smoke.
Hakkai could feel the sadness in Gohan suddenly. "Come let's go see the elder monk then."
Atsu looked at the two younger youkai play fighting. "Are they coming too?" He didn't want to see his master's studies in ruins with their aggressive playing.
Sanzo merely shrugged. He didn't care whether or not the saru was with him. Also he didn't want any distractions.
"Kitsune, why don't you and Goku remain here for a moment? So you two can get to know each better." Gohan remained beside Hakkai.
"Okay," Kitsune chirped and ran after Goku.
The blonde haired sanzo watched as the two played in the courtyard. The saru had better not get into any trouble. On the other hand, this was a way for the baka to release his excess energy. "Let's go." He turned and followed Atsu.
"I'll stay here and watch the monkey." Gojyo blew a puff of smoke.
Gohan look up at Hakkai. "Coming?"
A small smile crossed Hakkai's face. "Sure." Gohan and Hakkai followed Sanzo and the monk.
Again Atsu showed the visitors the way to his master's study. "He'll be here any minute now. The last time I saw him, he was giving the last orders of the day out."
Sanzo nodded his head in acknowledgement and took a seat on one of the chairs, ignoring the others.
Gohan sat down on the couch again. Hakkai sat down beside Sanzo. "At least Goku made a friend today."
"Then maybe that saru wouldn't be pestering me as much," Sanzo snorted. He wanted to smoke a cigarette, but he didn't want to ruin this nice place or did he?
"Why do you call Goku a monkey?" Gohan asked.
Hakkai rubbed the back of his head and let out a small laugh. "Why don't you tell him Sanzo?"
Why did he call Goku a saru? "It's none of your business why I call him that," Sanzo turned away to look out the window.
"I'm sorry." Gohan sigh. "Kitsune is a fox demon. I just never heard of a monkey demon before..." His voice was small. Hakkai looked at Sanzo.
"What?" Sanzo asked his only companion out of their strangely assembled group without turning around. He was only being himself, cold and distant. Why should he act differently?
Hakkai said nothing. Gohan was confused. "Isn't Goku your friend?"
"He's my charge," Sanzo replied with a voice that meant he didn't want to further into this topic.
Hakkai sighed inside. "How did you end up with Kitsune?" He looked at Gohan, changing the topic away from a volatile one.
The blue hair, green eye Sanzo was playing with the Sutra on his shoulder. He looked up at Hakkai. "I found him when I was at my lowest point in my life. He helped me get out of that dark mood. I still had my master's blood on my robes..." His eyes turned darker.
The door opened and the elder monk stepped into the room. He scanned the other's postures and attitude, for physical communication. The older sanzo was obviously ticked off and wasn't in the mood for long conversation by the way he was looking out the window. The younger sanzo had either told a painful even or was thinking about it. The other seemed to be more neutral. The dragon of course was still napping on Hakkai's shoulder. "Please excuse my tardiness. There has been too much tasks and not enough help."
Gohan snapped out of his dark mood. "That's alright. Thank you for fitting us into your busy time." The young Sanzo stood up and bow. "I came here to find out about the demon's attacks and to get some camping gear for me and my company, Kitsune." Gohan sat back down.
Hakkai nodded. "Yes thank you for the time."
Sanzo tore his eyes away from the window to look at the elder monk, though he said nothing. He wasn't much of a conversationalist anyways and his companion would understand.
"Yes, I've heard from Atsu you wanted information," the older monk stated. He sat down in his customary seat behind his desk. Flexing his finger, he leaned back in his chair. "My name is Mishu. Don't ask where my colleagues picked up that nickname for me, but I guess it stuck. Anyways, as you know we have been having trouble with the surrounding youkai lately. The increase started about a week ago. I think they might be looking for something or someone. They haven't given us a real answer as to why they target our small town."
Gohan lowered his head. "It's me. I think they are looking for..." His voice became small again. He hated being mark by the demons. "Sanzo...do you know why the demons are after people like us?"
Hakkai was in a bit of shock. He realized Gohan had no idea what had been going on with Sutras.
"They are after our sutras," Sanzo replied with a cold voice. He too hated being targeted by rogue demons, but that couldn't be helped. His former master had given him the sutras before dying, making him the next sanzo. "There is also a rumor as well. If a demon eats a sanzo, he or she will gain immortality. There's also that reason."
"But unknown to the demons that just a rumor." Hakkai put up his finger. "Remember Renli she ate a Sanzo and you killed her easy."
Gohan blinked. "Does that mean Sanzo and I are the last sanzos?"
"I doubt it," Sanzo replied with a snort. "There's at five around the world. So there must be at least two more, I would think." He glanced over to Mishu.
"I do not know the exact numbers, but I think he's right," Mishu placed his arms down on the desk. "There have been rumors about powerful youkai that need limiters in order to stay sane. Let's hope we don't encounter any of them."
Hakuryu stirred on Hakkai's shoulder. He chirped and nuzzled his cheeks, meaning he wanted to be let out.
Gohan looked at the white dragon. "Hello.." He smiled.
Hakkai smiled too. "Okay Hakuryu I'll let you out." He stood up and opened the door to let the small dragon out. "You go check on Gojyo and Goku okay?"
The dragon/jeep chirped with enthusiasm before taking off and flying down the hallway at a fast rate. A monk nearly fell over just as the little dragon passed over him.
Hakkai smiled and waved at the monk. He then slipped back into the room.
Gohan pull on his robes. He was still confused about some things. "Why would they want the Sutras?"
"I wouldn't have any ideas," Mishu shook his head. He wasn't a sanzo; therefore, he had no knowledge of it. He glanced over to the other sanzo, hoping he would shed some light on this issue.
"Gyumao's revival."
Gohan's eyes widened. "Gods that's not good."
"We're on our way west to prevent it from happening, but we were sidetracked when we heard another sanzo was in this vicinity."
Gohan looked down at his lap. "So all those demons that been attack me want to use the Sutras to revive Gyumao." He felt his stomach twisting inside him. Hakkai noted Gohan was not looking so good now.
"They have been attacking sanzos or at least I believe them to be," Sanzo spoke up. He noticed Mishu had been awfully quiet. The monk must have not known about such things. "Either you get used to it or hand over your sutras to someone who can and I'm not saying to me either. I have enough on my hands as it is." He could be tactful when he wanted to but he needed to make a point and if it took a good punch to make Gohan get out of his self pity, then he would volunteer.
"I already have two Sutras...I was with my master when he was visiting another Sanzo..." The blue hair teen took a breath. "He made me a Sanzo as a demon ripped him in two. I was blinded by a light and woke up in a blood of his blood. It was raining hard..."
"You don't have to say more," Mishu said with sympathy. He didn't know what it was like to have his own master killed before his eyes. His master had died from old age and most likely, he will pass down his position as head monk to his former apprentice when he was old enough. "I take it you need supplies?"
Hakkai and Gohan nodded in union. Hakkai chuckled. "It seems we all need supplies."
"I would take you there myself, but as you can see, I'm literally swamped with work and papers," Mishu sighed and looked wistfully out the window. He wished it was the good old days, where they could take their time and have fun when they were finished with their tasks. "I hope you know where it is. If not, I'll point you in the right direction."
