Arrghhhh!!!!! *Bangs Forehead On Keyboard* Damn writer's block! Where are all my plot bunnies?! I'm going to make rabbit stew out of them! Err, heh, sorry. It's been one of those days…Next chapter…Enjoy! Oh yeah, all conversations will be in Qui's language while they are here!

Chapter 26--Honor Challenged

They were almost out of the market when someone bumped into Qui. He started to apologize then his eyes narrowed. "So you have dared to return after you shamed yourself," he said.

"I was giving permission to leave by my Lord, Nikito. It is none of your concern," Qui said.

"You speak?!" Nikito gasped. "How is this possible?"

"That too is none of your concern. Now let me pass. I have other business to deal with," Qui said.

"First you will deal with me! I challenge you!" Nikito said and drew his sword.

Aragorn stared in admiration. He had never seen such a magnificent blade. His own blade was the finest that could be made in Middle Earth, but this one was obviously the work of a fine craftsman.

The blade was slightly curved and glimmered in the sun. Elegant runes were carved into it. The hilt was made in the likeness of an unfamiliar beast…Aragorn kicked himself mentally. There was going to be a fight and he was drooling over the opponent's sword like a fool.

"If you feel that you must challenge me then I accept," Qui said. He drew his own sword then they bowed to each other.

Legolas noticed everyone around them had backed away leaving the two combatants in a circle and they were all watching silently. He turned his attention back to Qui just as Nikito attacked.

Qui blocked the strike with that eerie grace that seemed strange for his size and struck back. Sparks flew from the blades as they connected.

Nikito leaped back, freeing his blade. "You are still a master with a blade, but I will not be defeated easily," he said and attacked.

The fight got so fast that it was hard to follow. Qui and Nikito moved around like cats, striking and parrying then striking again. Suddenly Nikito was without a weapon and Qui's blade was at his throat.

"You have lost this challenge. Do you acknowledge this and agree to cease?" Qui asked.

"I do," Nikito said. When Qui took the blade away he picked up his blade then knelt at Qui's feet. "By the laws of challenge you have the right to take my life or my blade. How do you choose?" he asked.

"Neither, you are my friend and I will not shed your blood nor will I take your late father's blade from you. I would take your friendship if you would offer it once again," Qui said. "Please stand, you do not need to kneel to me."

Nikito stood slowly. "We need to talk of what you have said, my sword brother," he said. "Will you take a meal with me?"

"I will if you will allow my companions to join us," Qui said.

Nikito eyed them thoughtfully. "Westerners, odd companions, but they are welcome to join us," he said. Nikito led the way to a building. He removed his shoes at the door and so did Qui.

Legolas, Gimli, and Aragorn did the same and then they went inside.

"Welcome to my home, anything you require will be provided," Nikito said.

Legolas felt at home in the home though Aragorn and Gimli seemed a little uncomfortable. Tables were made low to the floor and there were no chairs just colorful pillows. The doors were made of a strange, light, wood and some sort of paper. They slid back and forth instead of opening out and were painted with beautiful designs.

"Please be seated I will have food and drink brought out," Nikito said. Once they were seated on comfortable cushions Nikito sat as well then clapped his hands sharply twice.

A woman entered the room, gaze on the floor. She was tiny, just five feet and petite. She knelt on the floor by Nikito and bowed so low that her forehead touched the floor. "What may I do for you, my Lord husband?" she asked.

"Food and tea for myself and my guest, Makiko," Nikito ordered.

Makiko bowed again then rose and silently left the room.

Nikiko turned his attention to Qui. "Now sword brother, tell me why you have returned after so long," he said.

Qui nodded and began to speak…..

Hmmmm, I think this actually went rather well…what do you think? R/R please….bye now and Happy Thanksgiving all!!!!