Chapter Eighteen: Fly Like An Eagle
Three weeks into the journey. The foursome's quest, venturing into the territories of Mistral allowed the growing pains to fade. Thus, came the way for a routine. Routines allow structure, leading to expectations of others. Expectations gave way to easing of the group's nerves. The forests and mountains of Vale gave way to wind swept landscapes with lower growth. The grounds were more rocky, arid. As if long swaths of land held different sorts of forests and vegetation before winding areas of difficult growth.
The van curved around the cliff side road before winding through a path down from the plateau. Blair drives the vehicle currently, trained eyes snapping back and forth to scan the land. Possibly due to having stopped five times in the course of their journey to kill a rogue boarbatusk or ursa. That is if Roman didn't win the ensuing argument about just 'leaving the damn things be. There's always more.'
Speaking of, the orange haired maniac lays in the passenger seat, a smarmy look of satisfaction as his foot taps two large sacks in front of his seat. Over their travel, they'd only managed to come across one more Hunting job for a couple of ursa majors. It had paid a hefty chunk, leading to the conman smiling warmly with his money bags.
Right, he'd successfully gotten the bags once Blair took over driving duties for the time being. With a gleeful hum, he'd counted each and every drop of their earnings. He seemed rather content now that profit could be seen.
In the back of the van, Neo bobs her head with a pair of headphones in Carmine's scroll. At this point, it was starting to be counted as hers, given the whole world of information at her fingertips. She'd also successfully bought a new outfit... Her first self owned outfit.
She wears a pair of black thigh high platform boots with white zip sides, a pair of skorts consisting of a brown skirt and black boy shorts underneath, and a white halter-neck top with her pink hood down and pink detailing. At her wrist is a golden bracelet... that the group hadn't noticed she'd taken until they were on the road.
Well, Roman noticed. Carmine and Blair were each furious she'd stolen the simple jewelry. The conman had simply said they should learn to see it coming. Whatever...
Carmine sits cross legged beside the girl in the back seat. In his lap sits a thick book and two papers. Scanning through the pages, he highlights certain words, taking notes in the papers. The words try to soak into the boy's mind, yet bounce from it within seconds if he doesn't stop a reread.
… Mistral's Trade Route runs the gambit from Wind Path to Kuchinashi, connecting to the core City of Mistral... He skips a few lines looking for the word 'South'. Ah-Ha! Southern Mistral's trade towns offer connection to powerful tribal cultures. Several 'trade' towns act as hubs of communication and interaction between these cultures. Most such towns are ruled and governed by individual clans...
Damn it. Nothing on Mibu. Nothing relevant, anyhow. Still, if it's one of the towns controlled by a single clan of peoples, they'll have to be mindful of their surroundings- WAIT! Second page.
… Towns within Southern Mistral such as Akaraka, Shien, and Yuan have banded multiple tribes and cultures together for greater trade opportunities. Other clans such as Hachioji, Mibu, and Lougai answered this growth by playing to special interests...
Beside the passage, a portrayed image showed groomed man with long silky black hair graying at the sides. He wore robes and gave a small smile, standing behind a table. On the display was a long black curved blade, far too long to be a katana, or even a nodachi. The hilt was presented beside it with dust ports.
Its caption states... Master Craftsman and Mibu Clan Head Kourii presents his custom Muramasa blade, named Dark Heaven, capable of utilizing four unique attacks through use of wind and fire dust.
Carmine smirks, bumping Neo's shoulder for attention. The girl removes the headphones, giving her attention. With that, the boy calls out. "Hey, so I found something on Mibu in Oobleck's history books."
The sudden talking prompts Roman to open one eye towards him. Blair keeps her focus on the road. "Anything worthwhile?"
"Apparently the town is entirely run by a Mibu clan, named the city after them I guess. The town is listed under those that play to special markets, but doesn't say what exactly."
"Riveting." Roman groans, earning a scowl from the boy.
"BUT, it does show the Clan boss guy in here alongside a special sword he'd made. Hunter grade. Apparently, he's a special awesome forge master. Maybe Mibu is a weapons trade town?" He ends giving a look to Neo.
The girl perks, finger to her chin in thought. Up front, Blair hums. "That's actually good to know. If true, then we know what AZRL likely uses the town for."
Roman grumbles. "IF that's true, then we're walking into a full blown weapons playhouse then." He looks back at Neo. "Although, I don't recall AZRL arming their kids with anything special. You?"
The girl nods, producing a sign. On it, the words displayed. 'Was never able to comprehend how their main operatives fight. It was always flashy and hard to catch.'
Roman narrows his eye at that. "Ah, so only those they keep get them. That's JUST fantastic." He glares at the boy. "Anything else?"
The boy frowns. "No. How long until we get there?"
The van curves at the final dip, leaving the plateau behind it. Speeding on, it crosses a valley as it dips further into a canyon. The vehicle sticks to the left side of the canyon crevice. The evening sky allowed the Sun to beam down on the dusty trail left by the van. Along the road, they pass a sign, or what's left of it. The name on the sign is gone, as if bitten off, but they clearly saw 10 miles.
"About 5 minutes."
The dirt road trails along the left side of the canyon. Blair glances over Roman, out his window, seeing that the canyon itself had structures build into the right cliff wall of the canyon. Eastern curved roofs stuck out from the cliff face, the in built structures seemed part of the dark red and tan rock. Hanging from the corners of each roof were large, bloated lanterns. Not lit as the mid day sun still beams down upon them.
Trailing along, the group catches sight of a bridge. The road on the left side of the canyon edge turns to towards a large ornate orange and red wooden bridge. The red beams curve upward, upholding the curved roof over the bridge with more lanterns under it. The suspended path dips down, directly into the center of the right canyon wall.
Embedded into the wall is a great large Karamon gate, with overhanging roof and red beams holding them up. The gate is open, a trade caravan leaving as the van passes it and drives onto the bridge. Blair brings the vehicle to a stop as several men in swat style body armor and kabuto masked helmets stand in their way.
All four raise their right brows, tilting their heads in unison at the masks. Carmine looks to the top of the gate, seeing it still a great distance from the top of the canyon wall. "They built the town underground?"
"Makes sense." Blair speaks up. "Any wondering Grimm can only see the town from the west, which limits Grimm conflict. Being underground allows for less Grimm confrontation." She eyes the bridge roof, seeing an antenna out of it and a wire connecting to the main gate. "Seems they do have a CCT connection out here."
"Our lives are saved." Roman adds, dry.
The main gate guard steps to the window as the blonde lowers it. A white monstrous mask faces her as a deep voice questions. "State your business, traveler."
Blair's mouth opens, but Roman is faster. "Ah, my good man! We simply heard of some good wares to be had! What with the terrible beasties and traveling, could always use some new toys."
"Ah. Tourists." The man nods, holding up 2 fingers to his partner still at the gate.
"Is there an issue with accepting travelers?" Blair questions, an irritated glance Roman's way.
"Hm. Some unsavory individuals recently caused a stir. We simply ask what your purpose is." He then calls out to his partner, holding up four fingers this time. "If you require lodging, you can find rooms at Kamiya's on the Eastern side of the town. Markets are everywhere in the center and North." He knocks his fist over his heart, nodding. "Wind guide you."
As Blair nods and closes the window, Roman scoffs. "Great. Religious nuts." He earns a glare from Carmine and Blair, Neo shrugging as the van begins moving again.
Entering the gates, they find the town, a great wide expanse! Stone pillars every other block of buildings hold the great large cavern top up! Each block of traditional wooden buildings in Japanese style line the street. The entrance of the town comes from the West, leading to an intersection.
Over the streets are long wired connecting the blocks of buildings. Each wired allows multiple lanterns to hang, these ones lit bright yellow for light inside the grand cavern, tinting the quarter of the town. The streets were packed, people eating at various restaurants within the western district. Coming to the intersection, they pass to the eastern district, the living district.
Homes, both low and middle class, fill the area as they bring themselves to a nice looking inn, Kamiya's. The residential district is light white, no tint to the area by the lighting. Parking, they exit the vehicle.
As the crew gets out, Carmine looks around at the lanterns, raising a brow. Question for the inn-keeper. They check in, meeting a front desk lady in a pink robe, navy hair down her back. "Hello! Welcome to Mibu. Wind guide you. How may I assist you?"
The chirping voice made Roman recoil. "Two rooms. Each two bed."
"Of course!" She works through her paperwork as she, Blair, and Roman sort it out. As she makes a note, Carmine walks up. "Excuse me? I was wondering about the lights here. Why is each part of the town a different color?"
"Why, they represent the Four Winds! The animal spirits that guided our clan's creation!" She holds a finger up for his attention. "The West Wind is the Golden Tortoise, who shields us through our body. The East Wind is the Silver Liger, who strengthens our spirit. Then, the North Wind is the Azure Drake, whose guidance facilitates our own rise to power. Finally, there us the South Wind of the Red Pheonix, who will rise through whatever strife we face."
"These winds guide us through our hardships, and we have dedicated each section of the city to one of the four." She finishes with a bright smile.
Roman ignores Carmine's whimsical look at the description of the animals. Rather, he takes in the info with indifference, going to their room in silence.
Minutes later, Carmine enters, putting his own bag along a table and smiling. "So cool that they have a belief in these animals. Man, if they exist-"
"It's propaganda." Roman scoffs.
"What?"
"The phoenix. Phoenix are meant to reincarnate and rise from the ashes, right? Well, if anything happens to the town, the phoenix district is last to get demolished." Roman speaks plainly as he checks his ammo in Velvet's drum magazine.
"What's the issue then? How is that propaganda?"
"Well, if west is the entrance, east is for peasants, north is for markets, that means the clan's noble and oh-so inspiring thought leaders reside in the phoenix district. Meaning, they'll be most protected and carry on the clan no matter what happens to the poor fools down here." He fixes the drug magazone around his neck by the string strap. "Their leaders live and survive anything the dirt poor die of."
He scoffs and continues. "Plus the crock of garbage about inner spirit from the liger, and strengthening from the overgrown turtle." He mocks sarcastically. "To make people happy to be the first line of defense, be satisfied. And the magical dragon to inspire? Also happens to be the market place. Good to keep the lowly worker drones busy for the benefit of the top" He snickers then. "It's actually brilliant."
The boy turns in a grumble. "Note to self: Never bring up religion. You're an atheist? Literally everyone holds beliefs relating to humanity's beginning and Grimm."
"Oh, something certainly existed. Then it pissed off and left us in this crap sack called Remnant. I'll hold my breath with the worship." He rolls his eyes as he heads to the door. "You do you, but the minute your holy thou rules upon me, we're done."
Carmine's lips purse, annoyed. "Here I'd figure that you'd just break all the rules anyway and laugh at them."
Snickering, Roman tips his hat towards him. "Stick with me, kid, and I'll learn you a thing or two. Now, come on, brat."
The two quickly exited the inn, finding Neo and Blair out front. All nod as they begin a brisk walk. Walking about, it seemed almost like the locals were dressed for a Vale festival. Like a cultural celebration, except all the time here!
Some children played in the residential district with a ball, a few of the elderly watching over them. Many were kindly with smiles, but something caught Carmine's eye... and it wad their eyes. She thought it was just the innkeeper, but ALL their eyes were bright crimson. Deep saturated reds staring back from all sides.
All around them, red eyes. The hairs on the back of his neck stand. It reminds him of Grimm. Until now, the only person with red eyes he'd seen was Ozpin's top huntsman. The boy shakes his head before he focuses too hard on that thought trail.
Several pubs and restaurants came into view near the central intersection of the town. Taking the chance, Carmine glances up to the adults, Neo on the other end of the foursome. "So, are we splitting up, or no?"
They'd made their objectives clear days ago. Their first night would be devoted to information gathering on the location.
Roman wastes no time. "Yes." He pivots on his heel and turns left at the intersection, moving to the South end. The overhanging lanterns this way light red and orange, as the conman strolls on away from the group.
Blair watches him go in a dry, half lidded stare. "I despise that man." A silent moment of zen and peace occurs as she breathes in and out. Her amber eyes glance back to Carmine. "Yes. I'm going to check something with our funds."
Carmine nods, then looks to Neo, a slight twinkle in his eye. "Check on the weapons?" The girl's own look... brightens? Darkens? A narrow, satisfied look in her eyes with a fairly evil, sick grin. She nods vigorously as she holds up a notebook, then tucks it under her arm.
The blonde looks between them. "Don't cause any problems."
The boy gives a smile as he lightly taps the blonde. "We'll find you if we have something cool to buy." He and Neo start to walk into the marketing district, North. "Come on, Neo!" The two begin a jog off. They enter the different lighting, the market district lit in colors of various blues, violets, and occasional green.
Alone, Blair sighs. "Going to be the death of me." A light tingling sensation tickles the back of the woman's neck... Her back straightens her already perfect posture. Cautiously, she begins her walk.
Something was off... Her eyes glance over her shoulders, the part of the street sparsely populated. Only her and a light blue haired man sitting on a bench some 30 yards off. Not even turned her way for a look at the face. Looking about, she finds no one else remotely interested in her.
Odd...
. . .
Thank any god for the silence. Roman groans, rolling his shoulder and popping his joint. "Freaking playing baby sitter for nearly a month for crying out loud." He mutters under his breath as he withdraws a cigarette and lighter. The entire street is washed in red like a dark room, various buildings on the sides with violet, white, and green signs and their own lighting.
As he marches along, his street senses tingle! That light edge of taking in everything around him. Passing individuals and casing them based on their physical traits. Traits that never change. A man in a suit walks by, having small deer antlers, black hair, tan skin, and red eyes.
All in a split second, he sees the building the man exited... a massage parlor? He had noticed a lot more... shall one say, ADULT tastes in this section away from the market. The faunus is dressed up, but his suit is fitted wrong. Not tailored. Middle class run of the mill guy using his excess cash for pleasure.
Exactly the type of person to question.
Roman spins about, showman smile on. "Excuse me, friend. I'm afraid I may be lost."
The suited man flinches, turning to face Roman with an uneasy smile. Oh? Embarrassed about leaving that establishment? "Oh- Oh? Hello. What exactly are you looking for?"
"Well, first thing's first. I would kill for a good mixed drink heavy, but also want to learn some culture, you know? I'm so fascinated with this place!" Roman plasters a friendly grin, speaking with a light tone. "Where would you recommend?"
Hearing the jovial tone, the nervous guy eases slightly, smirking. "Oh? Well, the BEST drinks come from Yukimira's next to the Grand Temple at the end of the road!" He points into the distance, taking Roman's eye to the destination. "It's difficult to see in the red light for outsiders, but it's beautiful!"
The orange haired man smirks. "Is that so? Hey, I can see you're a man of culture too." He gestures to the massage parlor, prompting a blush on the faunus. "Join for a drink? I think the pleasures here deserve a proper introduction."
The man chuckles nervously, but Roman's already shuffling his arm around the guy and leading him off. "Oh! Uh, sure? My name's Saru."
Roman's boisterous, fake happy voice almost cuts him off. "Nice to meet you! The name's Randy. Now, what were you saying about this fancy temple?"
. . .
The blonde stops in the street, looking at the paper in her hand for a quick double check. Across the decorated and crowded street is her destination: Eagle Services. Under the grand golden sign, a green tag line flashes. 'Where your interests fly.'
Yeah... exactly as cheesy as Roman described. Crossing the street, she opens the front door-
"EAAAAGLLLLE!" A loud shrill male voice sounds from a speaker! Blair's hand recoils from the door, allowing it to shut. Her amber eyes look up through the glass door, seeing the speaker over the door on the inside. Her heart settles as her eyes half lid... She pushes the door open again. "EAAAAGLLLLE!"
Her eyes snap closed, centering herself and reconciling that before leaving, she'll have to hear that again. She goes through, entering onto a well lit room with white marble flooring to a beautifully carved wooden counter. Various statues of the noble wind animals decorate the room on pedestals: A marble liger, an amber tortoise, a ruby fire bird, and a sapphire dragon.
Must cost a fortune, she thinks to herself. She marches up to the counter, no one in the room. She glances down at a counter bell, hesitating before giving it a ring. DING.
Instantly, a disheveled balding man violently quakes up from under the desk in a fright. His brown suit was ragged and wrinkled, his face almost pulled down in a long face. He was paper white with large dark brown sunken in eyes. "O-O-O-OH! H-hello. How may I help you?"
Blair simply stares. Her professionalism stunned paused as her wide eyes blink. She speaks after a long pause. "Is this a bad time?" She glances down to his left chest, a name tag stating 'Dory'. "Mr Dory?"
The man recoils slightly, looking amazing, entranced. "Y-you know me?" His voice cracks, amazed... until she more obviously tilts head head towards the name tag. He follows the gaze, immediately deflating, shoulders sagging. "Awwwww..."
"Look I just need to check an account of mine? Perhaps I'm in the wrong place?"
The man just gives an aghast open look, hollow eyes. "You want to check an account?" His tone seems just as lost as her.
She twitches, but pulls out her paper with the account and routine numbers for Neo's purchase. "I need to verify a transfer that routed here? Is there perhaps a monitoring station I could check it myself."
Immediately, Dory's eyes widen in horror. "Oh, god, you're here to kill someone."
Blair doubles takes. "Sorry? What-"
Suddenly, Dory rocks back from the counter, hands on the sides of his head. The bald front of his head gives a sheen of sweat. "Oh, GOD! You're here to kill me!" He sways back and forth, unfocused. "God, oh why?! Why couldn't I die with hair?!"
"Would you stop and list-"
"I always thought I'd at least outlive ma! Who's gonna feed her-"
Suddenly, Blair slams both hands on the counter top, glaring searing hot death to the man. "STOP!" Dory immediately backs flush into the wall, wide terror filled eyes forward, completely still. The blonde sighs. "Thank you. I'm not here to hurt you, I just want to..." He still hasn't moved.
Eyeing him suspiciously, she side steps down the counter. His dead stare stays forward. He doesn't move a micro inch. She slides back in front, holding up one hand. After a moment, she waves it up and down in Dory's field of vision.
After three waves, his eyes twitch, focusing and finding the woman. He inches off the wall, looking confused. "Hello. What were we talking about?" His monotone was back, looking blank at her. She gives him a cocked stink eye, looking at him and flicks her hand to the wall. "Oh..." His voice drops lower, still little emotion. "My fight or flight response... freezes me in place... I black out momentarily."
"That can't work well." She comments cautiously, but continues. "But I am not here to harm you."
Immediately, his mouth smiles, not quite reaching his eyes. "I get to live?" His arms raise slowly, almost dead weight. "I get to live!... longer..." His arms slowly lower, smile wavering. "Here..." The smile completely wipes away. "Aw..."
Blair continues to glare, but sighs and mutters to herself. "I'm not a psychologist. It's not my problem." But, her thoughts betray, she CAN get information from the make. Swallowing deeply, she leans back on the counter. "Who did you think I was?"
At the question, Dory's eyes widen in terror as he looks down. A fake, cracking laugh comes out as he scratches the bald top of his head. "Oh, no one. I just. I mean. Well I have these clients who are very serious about their documents and accounts. But I can't discuss these things with you if you're not with them."
Blair raises a brow. This idiot might be useful. Deciding to play her card, she reaches into her pocket. "Well, it would do well not to make assumptions. After all..." She places a small cuff on the counter, the cuff showing AZRL's three eyed skull. "You never know who you're speaking to."
She watches as the man's eyes bulge wide, locked on the symbol. Working his mouth, he attempts to speak, only exhaling as his dry mouth sticks and barely articulates grunts. His attention then goes to the paper Blair slides towards him.
The woman speaks low, narrowing her gaze on him. "I would like to see all transfer, transaction, and routing for transactions made through this account. ALL of them... Please." She finishes forcefully.
. . .
A street in an azure tint, dark violet lighting in alleys, and greens lighting the signs. The ornate structures gave way to multiple needs within the market district. Restaurants littered the area, a large ramen stand having caught Carmine's eye.
Thus, he and Neo sit at the stand, mouths watering as they look at two bowls of gorgeous steaming noodles. As the bowls are served, the large red eyed man smiles. "That'll be 30 Lien, kids!"
Carmine grins back as he reaches for his pocket. "On me. I got the check." ... then his other pocket. Then his other pocket. Sweat starts to build as he rapidly pants his pants pockets. "Um..."
DING. His head snaps up to the large man laughing. "Guess the girl has ya kid! No worries." As he hands change back to Neo. Neo smiles at Carmine as she puts the Lien into a wallet... a very familiar wallet.
SHE HAD HIS WALLET! "That's my wallet!" The boy shrieks, jabbing an accusatory finger at the girl. His mouth hangs open as the girl shines a smile his way and slides his wallet back to him. Despite the sweet curve of lips, her eyes shimmer, immaculate satisfaction. She daintily pats his outstretched finger out of her face before taking her first bite of the ramen.
The entire time, Carmine twitches, then scowls, then pouts as he stuffs his wallet back in his pocket. He stews a moment longer before ingesting the first succulent bite of the powerful beef flavored miso ramen.
The boy immediately brightens as they eat in silence. He turns to the old man as he slurps the delicious thick noodles. Gulping down, he speaks up. "Hey, sir? I wanted to ask some two questions if you don't mind."
The large man smiles back and leans over. "Sure thing. Always happy to help my customers."
The boy flicks his eyes to Neo before continuing. "Well, I saw in a book before coming here that your clan's leader was some super special awesome weapon smith."
The man brightens with a grin. "Ah! Master Kourii! Best smith under the sun! I'm so glad you've heard of him. He's forged some of the best weapons in the clan's entire history! He out us on the map!"
"That's awesome!" Carmine brightens and shares a nod with Neo. "Well, we're aspiring Hunters, but we don't have the resources to build a weapon from scratch. Could he make my friend here a weapon for her?"
The shift was instant. The mirth in the bloated man deflated to a saddened downward grimace. "Ah, I see. Well, he's not going to be able to at the moment." At Carmine's own drop at sensing the mood, he continues. "You see, Master Kourii has been ill for some time now..."
At that, Carmine sat quite straighter. Lips curl down, as does his gaze. "I'm sorry. What happened to him? He's going to be okay, won't he?"
The cook looks around the counter. No new customers, nothing demanding his attention, so he leans further to the kid. "Eh, I'm sure the old man will power through. He's the pride of our clan, and he's a fighter, both of body and mind. I'm sure he'll pull out of it. However..."
Neo leans in with interest, hands slightly clenched. She narrows her gaze, but takes a calming breath. Carmine gives her a side glance, frowning.
The server continues. "The problem is that the clan's leadership duties have fallen to the Four Nobles." Both kids flash looks of confusion to him, prompting a chuckle. "Have you heard of the Four Winds we follow?"
Neo nods, flashing up a semblance made sign, making the cook flinch. The sign had a blue cartoon dragon on top, a cartoon turtle below to the left, a white kitten to the right of the turtle, and a smoldering cockatoo on the bottom.
The man snickers. "Neat trick, little lady. Like the artistic interpretation there!" This gets the tricolor girl to grin lightly before he continues. "Well, a decision is made between the wishes of the clan leader and the voices of the people to appoint prominent clan members to positions of power. Four in total in keeping with the great spirits."
Carmine frowns at him. "If they were appointed by both sides, then what's the problem?"
"They weren't properly suited to having that much control." The man responds simply. "Perfect for their original roles, but none are as capable of leading as Kourii. On top of that, they bicker amongst themselves. The only thing they can cooperate on is physical threats, but everywhere else we've taken a hit."
"But..." He straightens up with a smile. "When Master Kourii recovers, it should go back to normal."
"I'm sorry..." Carmine sulks. "I hope it all ends well for you." He spares a glance towards Neo, the girl shattering her sign silently and glaring down. "So, there's no way to possibly get a weapon made here?"
The kind man grins wide. "Oh, I never said THAT, per se." He points down the street. "Further towards the end of the road, you'll find our smithing and weapon vendors. Some of which actually still have some of the more recent of Master Kourii's works." Both kids perk up at that. "Might even get one of our better smiths to do a custom order if you can afford it."
Carmine's grin burst wide, lighting. "THAT'S AWESOME! THANKS!" He turns. "Come on, N-" She's gone... "What?!" The redhead snaps his gaze back and forth, the cook chuckling. "Where did she go?"
"Oh, she disappeared the moment I was pointing down the street." Carmine gasps as he stumbles off the high seat. His hands immediately go to his pockets... wallet gone. "Oh DAMN IT!" The boy waves thanks to the man and sprints away from the stand, rushing down the street.
. . .
"Things going down hill? Here I thought having approved whore houses was a sign of prosperity." Roman cackles, face flushed as he wags a half full glass mug. Flashing a grin. "But seriously? This place is going under?"
Saru, the deer faunus, sighs, slumping next to the man. Both sat at the bar counter, lit under gold ans violet lighting flashing back and forth. Music beat in the background with a small dance floor off to the side. Several dancers bounce with a techno pop beat in the background. Roman had to admit, this Yukimura's chain seems to be pretty damn good.
"The Nobles are trying, but I don't know. We're not collapsing or anything, but it's weird." Saru's flushed face scrunches. "They say that everything's been done. That it's just waiting for the result, but I've SEEN various exotic doctors offer their services. They only let this one guy enter about five months ago, and I still don't know what made him more qualified."
Saru groans, leaning back and looking at the ceiling. "The clan's overall funds have gone up even, but we've lowered production, less people allowed in, we're supposedly exporting what we don't sell, but- ugh." He runs his hand over his face. "It all going well enough, but I'm a consulted accountant. If I don't see how the funds add up, something is left out."
Roman raises a brow at that. He huffs, swatting the man's arm. "Ah, don't be like that." He forces a smile on. "The answers are always in plain sight. Now, account this for me." He cracks a sly grin. "Which girl at that massage parlor should I check out?"
Saru immediately blushes, a dirty chuckle coming out as he looks away. "U-U-Um..."
Roman snickers, snapping for the bartender's attention. A white man with a well trimmed goatee and slightly balding head comes up. His soft yet raspy voice answers. "Something you like?"
"Dominique, I want your three STRONGEST drinks, mixed together..." Roman starts with flippant hand flicks, then he gestures between the two men. "And split it in two mugs for me and my friend here! We need that frown upside down!"
Saru giggles tipsy, trying to wave the conman off. "No, no. I can't."
"Too late!" Roman shouts. He points to the bartender. "Do it, Dominique!"
The stoic bartender nods. "Two Garbage Cans, high class, coming up." The man marches off, quickly returning with two tower glasses filled with a light green mixed liquid. The two men raise the glasses in cheers and begin downing.
The two party on, sharing drinks further into the coming night. Upon finishing another drink, both men overturn their glasses and roughly hit them into place on the counter top. "Ah... Whew, that hits real good." He slightly lets out a slur, looking Saru straight on and chuckling at the accountant swaying in place. "You aren't looking great."
The deer faunus gives a tired glance Roman's way. "Well, I'm among friends, so it's fine!"
The human claps the man on the back, both men having ditched their jackets and unbuttoned the top buttons of their shirts. "That's the spirit! Now, talk to me. Where do ya do your accounting?"
Saru lazily waves his arm out, slurring. "The multi... purpose firm in da marketing side of town." He then twirls his hand mockingly, speech raising in pitch. "Eaaagllle!"
Roman gasps dramatically, leaning in ans speaking in a mock tone. "Where my interests fly?!"
"Oh god." Saru face palms. "That slogan is awful, but yeah." He chuckles. "We're a multi purpose. Accounting, banking, practice law, and consultation in all therein."
The conman whistles. "Impressive! I was actually hoping to check that and possibly open an account!" Roman's eye sharpens focus on the man. "Do I stack up to your typical clientele?"
The faunus huffs. "Sorry to break it, but the boss has said we can't take anymore clients. In ANY of the departments. Full stop on anything new happening for the last eight months after our newest client. Can you believe that?"
Roman pauses, brow raising. For just a moment, he narrows his gaze and smirks. "Reeeaaally?" He composes himself just enough to force a look of confusion. Start by relating to the poor sap. Share a personal experience. "That's weird. I used to have a boss that would make odd decisions like that. Pissed me off."
"Right!" Saru exclaims. "What ruffled your feathers about him, if you don't mind?" Hooked his interest with a common problem. Now, to show superior knowledge about his problem.
With a tip of the hat, Roman smirks at the wall, facing away from the faunus. "Well, he decided to hush down news and jobs for a long time. He wasn't as out of nowhere as yours, but eventually I found out he was clearing the way for an old competitor to come in and take the place over. All for a paycheck for him, and to hell with us." He gives a smarmy grin Saru's way. "Leaving us drones high and dry, as it were. So, I sabotaged his deal and ruined it for him. Left on my own terms on top, even." He finishes with his chin high, pride showing.
Saru watched the man jaw dropped. His eyes glowed as if taking the human in for the first time. "Wow, really? I wouldn't- I mean... I can't even imagine how I would go about that." He then flinches in realization. "N-Not that I'm plotting against my boss. I love my boss like a brother. I just want to know what's going on."
Roman smirks as the man took the bait. Now that the sap believes in Roman, the sap is an open well of information. The orange haired man raises a finger. "Well, it's not something against your boss. You could help him. Step one is identifying the problem." He drops the finger and faces Saru face to face. "No new clients in eight months is all you've said, but come on. Nothing else has caught your attention? What else has changed in that time?"
. . .
"Only nine months of transactions?" Blair narrows her gaze threateningly at Dory. At the counter, he'd turned around one of the monitors for her to view. Upon seeing him shift, she catches herself. "I thought this account was open longer." She lies, covering her confusion. The logs and numbers through the account... Well, it numbered in the thousands!
"Ah... well, that's everything. The account was opened exactly 267 days ago. We get so much work through this account alone..." The sad law man drawls out as he scratches the smooth baldness atop his head.
Blair flicks her eyes through the transfers. Much of the numbers and abbreviations mean little to her, but she CAN make out authorized zip codes in some transactions. It confirms the worst. AZRL is across all four kingdoms for sure. This is just ONE account too!
She glances up at the man. "I'd like copies of all these transactions." She settles him a glare. "Before that, please tell me the current terms and conditions of your agreement with AZRL."
Dory pauses, cocking his head at the woman. "I... what's AZRL?" The blonde purses her lips. Shit. She glances back at the records for the account name. Dory continues. "You're not one of the usual suits. That account is under Doctor Franklin Near." The man's eyes widen fearfully. "Oh god, I just gave confidential information to you. I'm gonna die!"
Blair whips her gaze at him. "You're not gonna die!" She shouts, holding her hands up. Damn it. She'd made an assumption that he was in the know. She groans as the man pauses in fear of her. She makes sure to speak very slowly. "Now... This man. Who opened this account. WHAT do you KNOW about him, and what is your role in all this."
The wide eyed man seems frozen again, almost. Stiffly, he turns his whole body around, glancing about the room. All alone. The action made the blonde view him as less a man and a nonfunctioning robot. He stiffly looks back at her, suddenly whispering. "You're really not one of them? You're not going to hurt me?"
Blair narrows her gaze at him. "No, unless you keep acting like that. My job is to HELP people."
He nods. "Oh. Good." Dory continues nodding as he approaches the counter again. His voice comes out low. "Nine months ago, this doctor showed up to make an account here during a visit to the temple... Not long after, the clan's leader, Kourii, fell ill." He looks around, eyes as wide and perceptive as can be before he leans back in. "After he fell ill, the clan's four Nobles took over leadership and forbade my firm from acting on foreign accounts... except this one."
The blonde nods, her mood spiraling down with the information. "So, you're only a middle man. Can you tell me what many of these transactions are for?"
He sways back and forth, thinking. "Well... most is money management with the larger transactions, but most outgoing transfers are paying for supply shipments to come here."
"And what supplies are in those shipments?"
Dory grimaces. "Most of it is replacing shipments the clan used to use. Most of the clan is backed by this single account. I just thought it was some millionaire trying to own the town." He sighs. "However, a single item in a precise amount of six milliliter vials comes with each shipment, regardless of the source of the shipment. The clan never had it in their manifest before."
Blair nods. "Thank you... May I please have a copy of this statement so I may go?" The man turns the computer monitor around and begins to shuffle to the back. Disappearing, Blair is left alone in the main room.
With a sigh of relief, she composes herself. That was close. Now, just to- "EAAAAGLLLLE!" The door rings, drawing Blair's attention to the entrance. Her eye twitches at the sight. Blue hair... she'd seen this person earlier.
The man... boy? He appears younger than her. Likely Academy age, with shorter loose pale blue hair. Sticking up on both sides were two larger bat ears with slightly darker blue-gray fur. His face was angular, eyes soothingly closed and an easy smirk on his face. He wears a blue kimono top with darker blue bordering at the openings of the fabric. Poking up to his neck under it shows a white button up shirt, and black wrap bracers poke out the kimono sleeves. He wears a dark blue hakama trousers under a black belt, and wears blue waraji, sandals wrapped on with straw rope.
The young man walks into the room, eyes still closed, tapping a cane on the ground in front of him. Blair tilts her head at him, moving out of the way for him. The man walked without opening his eyes. Given the cane... was he blind?
However, she remains quiet and takes a spot at the end of the counter. The man stands where she'd previously been. Her first thought was to ignore him... but something just feels off... In fact...
She turns her head to glance at him, and he's facing her now. If his eyes were open, he'd be staring directly at her... Blair twitches, feeling something wrong from the boy, but unable to feel out what it is. However, the newcomer suddenly raises his hand, waving her direction.
What?
. . .
The buzz of the populated streets fill with 'oos' and 'ahs' in a thick crowd. The tricolor girl blinks wide eyed at what she assumes is her destination. Less than a building as a massive roof with upholding columns. She pushes her way around a few people, pausing a moment as she glances around.
Metallic clangs and sounds of steam catch her ears. Eyeing a break in the crowd, she marches over, curious. She then hears the loud hum of a straining deep voice. "HMMMMMM!" Peaking through, she finds a great, large burly strong man, shirtless and profusely sweating.
With a flick of his hand, he twirls a pair of prongs in his grip, jabbing them into an open blacksmith's furnace! Pulling out, he reveals a searing red hot blade, the prongs latched on the tang of what would eventually become the blade's hilt! With the blade a safe heated distance from him, he dips it within the bath of water, quenching the blade in a steaming, boiling plume through the air. The surface of the liquid even burst to flame for a hot moment.
Neo followed the line down from the man, finding a similarly sized tiger faunus man beating his of heated instrument with a hammer, shaping the cooling metal to a desired form. Then there was another, grinding blades and fine tuning the measurements. And another, applying a black finish to a spear head.
She inches forward, only for a large, muscled woman to step up and around him. The red eyed woman holds a hand up for Neo to halt. "Careful, little one. The burns aren't pleasant!"
The girl steps back, watching the woman march off to her own station on the line. The woman finds a wide assortment of pieces. Individual parts of blades, segmented into smaller parts. Beside the blades, tangs, and thicker metals were several plated metal works. Connectors, wires, and more. Neo perks in understanding. The woman was in charge of constructing the transform weapons! Her gaze trailed up the line, not finding any finalized weapons...
She steps forward again, but when the nearest strong man turns to her, she waves Carmine's wallet in her left hand. She gestures to the wallet with her right hand, then points to the weapons. The man's understanding came after a moment of staring. "Right. Our finished works get placed further in. Over there!" He points further over the crowds.
Neo follows the gesture before smiling and nodding appreciatively. The girl skips her way through the crowd. Keeping her sense of direction, she glances about an the odd couple of patrons. Vaguely, she wonders if Carmine even has enough for these weapons. Reaching the stand, her thoughts went to a resounding 'No.'
2000 Lien for a non transforming sword?! What the actual hell?! Sure, it looks pretty and well made, but the dirty, muggy 400 Lien spear would get the same job done, right?
Her gaze wonders about the racks, ornate single edge blades, some in the form of katanas, nodachis, and more. Pink and Brown light upon a shimmering white blade with a black transformation mechanism along the back of the blade.
She slides over, stopping before the curved weapon. It was like a bulky scimitar, completely different from what she had in mind, but it just... it SPARKLES! Her lips purse upon seeing a price label... hesitating at thought of reading it. Well, better to rip off that bandage-
10,000 LIEN?!
The short girl sat with her jaw gaped at the tag, not even noticing the merchant stepping up. A taller, yet slimmer fox faunus with auburn long hair and red eyes smiles. "Yep, that's the reaction most people have. Did it peak your interest?"
Neo could only numbly nod for a moment, only flinching when the vendor reaches and draws the curved one handed blade from the shelf. "It's a fairly short blade for a one handed blade, perfectly balanced. However, the sword mode is primarily for ease of transportation and extreme close combat. But when you transform it..."
With a dramatic flourish, the black mechanisms along the back of the blade fold back over the handle before extending the grip into a full five foot half! The curved blade remains as a naginata head as a pole arm. He continues to twirl the long weapon with ease, stopping it in an easy pose.
The man smirks at the amazed girl. "And like that, you gain weapon reach advantage on the enemy, and can use dust here." He gestures to various dust slots within the haft, currently empty. "Activating the trigger near the bottom of the haft will activate one dust cartridge. The dust casts over the blade, or can even be conjured into dust casting using the weapon like a staff."
His smirk falls slightly weapon Neo scrutinize the blade. He grins a salesmen smile. "The transformed state would provide significant weapon reach for someone your size, and the dust options meet any power needs. But... I get the feeling it doesn't have you?"
Neo continues to stare at the blade, expression shifting as she eyes each piece. The man wasn't wrong. She COULD use a reach advantage, and the sword form would fall more to her liking. However... she's never once cast with dust.
She finally shakes her head, not for her. The girl conjures a sign. The act makes the man tense, but he relaxes at the image. "Neat trick. Semblances are rare that young." He then reads the sign. 'Never cast dust before. Not for me.'
The man leans back, hand to his chin in thought. He then lights up as he places the weapon back in its sword form. "Tell ya what. Show me what YOU are looking for, and I'll see what I can do for ya."
Neo nods, crouching down and undoing the sipper on the side of her left boot. Reaching in, she withdraws a folded paper. Setting her boot's zipper again, she unfolds the paper and gives it up. She sees a dog tag like necklace on the man with a name plate. The characters she didn't understand were one line. Under it, the name 'Rama' is labeled.
Rama looks over the paper, rubbing at his chin. "Interesting..." He stands taller and tries ti look over the crowds. Suddenly, he frowns disapprovingly. "Sneaky design, good art by the way, but might need some tweaking for pragmatic purposes." He then smiles apologetically to her. "Unfortunately, none of our finished works are what you're looking for."
While she'd perked up at complimenting her art, she scowls angrily at the information. She narrows her eyes on the man, her sign shattering with a new one appearing. It reads 'No Compromises.'
The man chuckles, holding up a hand in surrender. "Now, now. I didn't say there weren't options." He waits a moment for her expression to calm. "Alright, your first option is to custom order something from our smiths. You get FULL control of everything that goes into it, how it's put together, and all functions."
Her head bobs side to side. She conjures a new sign. 'How much is that?'
Rama hums at the response, giving an apologetic smile. "Well, low end, with cheap materials, you're looking at 9,000 Lien with an up charge for the custom order."
9,000... cheap materials... Her shoulders begin to droop.
"Of course, with the exact specifications you'd like, the price could go as high as 25,000." He helpfully informs, the words slamming upon her mind like a dead weight. In dramatic horror, her entire visage morphs to black and white, pink coloring going gray... fully toneless.
Weakly, her hand shakily raises with two fingers up for option two.
Smiling sympathetically. "You can start with a base." His smile becomes a grin. "Although, it still won't be easy on the wallet." He gestures for her to follow as the girl does so. The two weave their way through the crowd, moving to an ornate building near the back of the decorative stalls and vendors. "Here we are. One moment while I retrieve what I believe will interest you."
As he disappears into the building, Neo bobs back and forth on the balls of her feet. Her anticipation builds and builds, until she hears panting breath and feet hitting the ground. "Neeeooooooo!"
She pirouettes in place, wide eyed, as her twist moved Carmine's wallet... as Carmine sprints for the wallet and pursues it. The result is the boy slamming into the small girl! "OOF!" The air knocks from both their lungs as they fall and roll into a heap!
Carmine groans as he pushes up enough to look down at Neo, the mute girl glaring at him. He purses his lips in a pout, side eyeing his wallet in her hand. Holding himself over her with one hand, he reaches over and gingerly plucks the money container from her fingers.
He leans up from her, still straddling her. Maintaining eye contact, he pops the wallet open before peaking inside- Empty. His eye twitches, looking back at her. She's smirking coyly up at him now. "Where's my money?"
The girl gives a mock gasp, her free hand coming to her chest in false shock. Beside her head, on the ground, white shattering letters appear. 'It's gone?'
"Where's my money, Neo?!"
The letters around her head shatter as she continues to smirk and shrug her shoulders. He narrows his glare, a growl coming out. His options are simple. A. Simply let the subject go, and to hell with that! Or B. Search her for his money.
The girl snickers, the letters reappearing. 'I have no idea where it could be.'
"Fine. I'll just find it my... self." He freezes, wide eyed, as the statement goes through his mind a second time. Right. SEARCH her. His gaze looks down, noticing just how little the girl wore today. Covered enough, but no pockets.
Suddenly, a furious blush flushes over the boy before he jerks away, standing. He narrows his twitching eyes, still growling. Just search her. Nothing... suggestive... about that at all. Then again, one too many deep web scroll searches at Beacon... The boy's skin warps beet red as he coughs awkwardly. Right, option A it is. Fuck it.
He chokes on his breath at mentally iterating the curse word, unintended pun given the subject. He looks away, but not before noticing Neo stand up. Her head cocks as she looks at him, then herself... a light blush dusting her face too. Both children inch away from each other for space.
Thankfully, the ornate door bursts open, shattering the awkward atmosphere of the two. Rama exits the building, finding the two kids each relieved to pay attention to him. "Oh! You have a friend. Hello there." In his hands is something obscured by a pink and gold cloth wrapped around it.
Neo immediately slides towards it, curiosity peaking. She points at the wrapped object. Beside her, Carmine scrutinizes the interaction. "What's that?" His eyes trail behind Rama into the building. Inside, he sees a sealed container catch his eye in the far corner. The container is small, but a large black snowflake with a crimson hazard sign within the flake shows. However, the doors shut before he can get a better idea.
Rama gestures to the building. "This building is a safe storage for several of our Master Kourii's latest works before he quit forging recently. We may sell them if the right customer comes. It's also used as a safe house for expensive weapon materials." He ends with a calm, kindly smile at the little girl. "This one, however, has been around for quite a while. No one seems interested in it, but I think it would make a perfect base for you."
He pulls the cloth away, revealing a thin, black rod. Very thin. The grip was obviously built for a slender hand, as Rama takes hold and draws a slender double edge blade from the rest. It's profile was that of a Chinese Jian sword, incredibly thin and lightweight.
However, the entire length of the grip and it's black sheath was covered in slots... empty screw slots and fold-able plating. Carmine's gaze ran along the container of the weapon, no thicker than an inch, no wider than three inches including the sheath. He looks to the blade itself. "What's so special about it?"
Rama's smile remains. "Master Kourii once had the idea of creating weapons that would be easily modified to suit the user's needs. This was the only one he made, and sadly, people did not seem interested in an 'incomplete' weapon." He twirls the blade in a flourish.
"The blade is made of an extremely rare fusion of alloys called Adamant-"
"-tine Cobalt..." Carmine interrupts and finishes. At the quizzing looks from Rama and the confusion from Neo, he gestures to his armored arm. "Most if my armor is made from recycled Adamantine Cobalt. More durable than titanium, lighter. Excellent for channeling aura through."
Neo's eye traces back to the black, wide eyed. Rama nods. "Most rare, indeed. However, this particular blended Cobalt allows the blade an extremely resistance to bending. It is most difficult to damage. Helped significantly by the support of its sheath." He flourishes the blade with a whip of the air, sheathing in smoothly into the thin layer of black material.
He offers the weapon to Neo, the girl gingerly taking the item into her hand. From the side, Carmine leans towards Rama. "You're very brave letting her hold that."
His dry tone is cut off as Neo swings the sheathed weapon at him. The boy immediately yelps, bringing his arm up and blocking the black material. The two press against each other, Carmine frantically glances over to Rama.
"H-hold on! You can't-" Neo pulls back and strikes again with the sheath still on. Carmine ducks the swipe, then blocks another with his arm. "-Cant just abuse a weapon that isn't yours yet!"
Neo lets out an audible giggle as she continues swiping with the weapon. To the side, Rama smiles wide. "Oh, it's quite alright. After all, it can withstand FAR more than anything you can do right now." He leans against the wall. "However, I will stop this once she discovers the sheath's lock system."
Carmine glares at the man. "Oh, so she can just attack me until she figures out how?! AH!" he yelps as Neo jabs at him with a thrust! He claps his hands onto the sides of the sheath, halting the weapon's stab...
Then the sheath in Carmine's hand folds in place as the blade stabs forward out of the sheath! Neo and Carmine both gasp, the girl halting her jab. The silver blade's tip stopping just a hair in front of the boy's nose!
The two remain frozen until Neo pulls back, the sheath folding back around the blade's tip. She gives the panting, terrified boy an apologetic smile. Suddenly, her gaze lights back up on the weapon. Turning to Rama, she holds the weapon up for enphasis.
The fox faunus chuckles. "At it's base, Kourii said it would be called a 'Mod Soul'. A weapon that would change for its owner. Look at its sheath." The three appraise the black mechanical sheath. "It's entire length and grip are a series if connectors, joints, and plating to allow unparalleled customization." He gingerly pulls the weapon from Neo, the girl frowning at the loss.
He continues. "For instance, one could easily utilize gun attachments to turn the entire sheath into any form of ballistic weapon, with any type of trigger built into the modifiable hilt. Or, one could attach a minigun attachment to the end, and line the rest of the sheath with dust cartridges for a literally geyser of dust power. Or the sheath can be modified into a shield, and a dust chamber into the sword hilt, allowing for a dust powered sword and shield combination."
Carmine stares at the blade. His mind immediately goes to the minigun with fire and wind dust, painted in the visage of a fire breathing dragon for a weapon... "Wow..."
Rama smiles at the reaction. "In shirt, the combinations are endless." He turns fully on Neo. "Now, for the design YOU showed me, it would easily be done with this blade as a base. It's sheath would allow all the support installations that would make your idea work."
Neo squares up with the man, eyeing him suspiciously, then looking at the weapon in his hand. Back to him, she nods. A sign conjures in hand, reading 'How much?'
Rama taps his chin in thought, raising his brow. "Hmm. Well, the original price of this work, due to its less flashy nature, was 13,500 Lien." Both kids suck in their breath at that. "But! Rama hums to himself. "We deduct 500 for each attempted sale of a weapon that remains for a long period of time. You are the fourteenth to look at this weapon, and all the previous 13 rejected it for 'perfected works'."
Carmine scrunches his brow at that. 13... times 500... removes... His face lights up in shock. "6500 off?! That's exactly half!" Neo whips her head at that, then back to Rama with wide eyes.
The man smiles earnestly. "Tell you what. Based on previous criticism of the piece, perhaps it IS only 'half' a weapon, and I shall further reduce it's price by another half..." Neo's jaw drops as Carmine stammers over next to her. The fox nods. "3250 Lien, and it's yours."
Both children gape at the man, Neo twitches her look to the boy. Hesitantly, she conjures a sign. She taps him for attention, but he still doesn't register it. Tap tap- He flinches out and swats the hand, but looks at her sign. 'I'm using your money too.'
The boy scowls for a moment, then meets her hopeful gaze... With a groan, he sighs. Guess he's broke already... Even with his money, she'll also clean herself out as well. "... Damn it."
. . .
The bar doors burst open as a rouse of laughter calls out. Roman and Saru exit, arms over the others' shoulders. With a pat, Roman separates from the man, both mildly stumbling. The faunus smirks lazily and stumbles walking backwards. "Aw, man. You're a fun guy! I needed this!" His slurred speech drawls out, entertaining the human.
The drunken flush on Roman's visage was much milder. He grins. "Well, I am a pleaser. Let's do this again! You can show me the town!"
Saru grins wide, waving at the man. "Sure thing, Randy. Stay safe!" He twists about, carrying his business jacket over his shoulder. As the man disappears down the street, Roman's pleasant smile drops.
"Nice guy. Perfect sap." Leaning on his cane, he holds up his finger. Moving the digit and following the movement, he continues for a moment with a self given sobriety test. He looks at the ground, finding a crack in the concrete. He pushes off the cane and walks down the crack, only slightly wobbly. "Ah, good enough."
Smirk back on, he twists towards the temple at the end of the street and walks. Despite the odd stumble every so often, he keeps a good balance. The red lighting overhead tinted the area lightly in red, but seemed to get brighter as other colors get more saturated. The red hues give way to orange, then a mix of colors as he comes upon the end of the road.
The road gives way to steps, leading up to a gigantic wooden gate. Around the gate was a wall spanning one end of the cavern to the other. Portions had slots open allowing view of a ornate gold, crimson, and brown wooden temple inside. On each side of the gate was two statues. On the left were statures of the liger and phoenix. On the right were statues of the tortoise and the drake, each having jeweled eyes matching their lighting district's colors.
He pauses, eyeing the gate with a cocked head. "Fancy... huh?" A fly buzzes around him as he follows it with his drunken haze. Recovering drunken haze, that is. He'd say he's buzzed at worst.
Buzz... the fly zips in front of him. He swats it away before he just marches up the steps. He raises a brow upon eyeing a man standing at the top of the steps. Just in front of the gate, a lanky blonde haired man stands with his back to the criminal.
Blonde messy hair, fairly short. His outfit began with a golden open chest kimono. A white sash ties around his waist, holding a hunk of red and silver behind him with a grip sticking out from it. A transform weapon perhaps. He wore black trouser shorts under it, wearing red sandals on his feet. Beaded bracelets hang off his wrists, and a string necklace with a ruby dangles from his neck.
Roman smirks. "Hello there! Is the temple open to tourists, or just a need to know thing?" He leans on his cane expecting a response, but soon drops his expression when no response comes.
"..."
Roman narrows his gaze but tries again. "Excuse me sir? I'd say a head in the clouds, but we're underground..."
"..."
"Look, I already have one mute to deal with. You better not be another."
The man finally turns to Roman, showing crimson eyes staring the conman's way. His voice comes out disinterested, low and dull. "Hm? Sorry, did you say something?" The man looked young, the scruff on his chin giving an early 20s vibe. A crimson headband pokes through his hair covering his forehead.
Roman glares at the man. "The temple. It's closed to tourists, Yes or No?" A full five seconds tick by as the man just stares dully at Roman. Neither say a word until the man turns back to the gate. "HEY!"
"I'm wondering between an avian or mammal." He speaks aloud. His tone carries genuine curiosity as Roman squints at him.
"What?"
The man points to the center gate. "It's been decided to place a mural upon the temple gate, but I cannot decide if I prefer a picture design for an avian flock or a mammal with fur..."
Roman gives a dull look to the oak wood. "You're all about wind, so do the birds. Now, answer my question-"
He's cut off as the man hums. "But with birds, they'll built and designed for movement in air. Almost all pictures of avian species in flight look the same with wings just out." The man strokes his chin, tilting sideways for a different angle. "A mammal's fur can warp and blow with the wind, giving more energy to the message."
The conman groans. "Great, then go with a poochie dog. Now, my question-"
The man tilts the other way now, nearly leaning his head into Roman, making him step back. "But that can be too ambitious. If the fur gets too messy in the image, the animal can look feral and take away from the message."
Roman scowls. "I'm not going to get an answer, am I?"
Five seconds tick by before the man turns to Roman. "I'm torn. What do you think?" The sudden inclusion confirmed that nothing the conman has said registered to him.
He scowls at the air headed loon. "I think I'll be back another time." He grumbles as he turns around. Buzz Buzz. The fly flicks by him as he swats at it. "Damn fly." He marches down the steps, leaving the blonde man alone at the top of the steps.
Roman continues to stroll down until stepping back onto the road... he straightens his hat, then looks up, finding the blonde man on the road in front of him. His mouth opened for a witty remark, only for a feeling to catch him.
The feeling that prickles, increase in blood pressure, a need to sweat, feeling tense. Almost like a sixth sense, any worthwhile animal's innate warning light. To almost physically feel this thing from something else... killing intent. Roman smirks as a drop of sweat builds. Of course this happens while tipsy.
The blonde man's hand reaches behind him, gripping his compact weapon. "Do you hear it?" The question hangs in the are as the man's weapon shifts. A very light, high pitch hum sounds as his weapon shifts to a long nodachi with a full handguard. The blade blurs with serrations moving up the edge. A micro chain saw blade?
Roman tilts his hand, grip on Velvet Valentine clenching. "Hear what?"
"The song of the wind." The blade sparks as the mystery man suddenly obscures. The sparks of the blade light, then expand as a wave of fire burns and scorches between himself and Roman.
Roman raises his weapon to block, bracing his aura! And the flames pass him, striking the steps behind the conman to his left. The loud flicks of the flames die out as the mystery man's weapon compacts back as he places it back within his sash.
Confusion takes hold as Roman looks around, finding flickering embers dying out and hitting the ground, no bigger than specks in the air. His eye catches one burning speck fall in front of his eyes... a burning fly?
All the specks were just a few flies.
Roman turns back to the man as the blonde walks past him, going up the steps. "I don't like flies." He stops a few more steps up, turning to Roman. "Sorry. Nice to meet you. I am Zaku Mibu, Royal of the South Wind." With little more explanation, he turns away and continues up the steps.
Roman stares up at him, wide eyed. "... sure." What the hell? Taking a look at his weapon, there isn't any dust ports. He made that massive flame without dust? The hell kind of guy was he?
Well... one of the four head hanchos of this town. Roman scowls and leaves, hurrying to the inn.
. . .
Blair taps away on the counter. Her awkward company in the form if a smiling bat faunus still remained. The man/boy was starting to creep her out. She felt like she'd been there waiting for an hour! Thankfully, her wait had come to an end.
Dory exits the back room, a stack of papers in hand 3 inches thick. He scratches his bald head with his off hand, looking up. "I have the statement for you miss-" His eyes find the blue haired boy... and he freezes with his mouth open, gaze wide.
Blair looks at him... then to the kid... then to him... then to the kid... She waves her hand out, but the young man finally speaks. A raspy, higher pitched male voice scratches out. "Give him a minute. He does that."
The blonde sends a mild glare the younger's direction, but cools it immediately. This boy was obviously capable of sensing his surroundings. She didn't wish to offend him despite the closed eyes.
Seconds tick by as Dory finally snaps to. "Hello, Lord Kirran, may I help you?!" He shouts out loudly. His voice raises an octave over the course of the exclamation. Blair initially covers her ears and recoils from the man, then notices the boy's ears flick irritated.
Wait.. Lord? Is this one of the clan Royals?
The boy smiles creepily at the man. "Don't mind me, Dory. I'm sure you can finish your business with this woman."
Dory swallows thickly before turning to the blonde. "Right! Here you go Miss Evans. Is there anything else I can do for you?" He hands the stack of papers to her.
Blair's gaze hardens at the given nickname. A made up on the spot nickname. She'd say it was a terrible sell, but given how he acts to everything... Likely the best she could hope for. Accepting the stack of papers held together by a thick clip, she nods appreciatively. "That will be all. Thank you." Her eyes glance at the man down the counter from them, still giving them an offsetting smile while his own eyes remained shut.
It would be obvious if she asked him about the royals... Too easy to know she's fishing for information. Without knowing the extent of the kid's senses, she smiles and nods. Better not to ask-
"The answer is yes by the way." The man... boy... speaks up, face directed at Blair. She halts and eyes him curiously, so he continues. "You tensed after hearing him title me with 'Lord'. You were wondering if I am one of the Royals?"
Blair glares at him, body chilling. His eyes were closed, yet he picked up on her visual cue? How? Because he's a faunus? Was it a semblance? Quickly, she schools herself, giving a kind smile. As kind as she could muster. "You assume correctly. For someone as young as you. Must be a prodigy of sorts."
The man's smile twitched down at the word 'prodigy'. "Oh, I prefer to think of it as hard work done well."
Blair faces him fully. "And what is your name again? Lord..." If the kid engaged in conversation, she might as well attempt to get something.
He bows his head. "How rude of me? I am Kirran Mibu, Royal of the North Wind." His smile widens. "I hope you enjoy our town. And a word of advise. Keep an ear out. It's a most pleasant to hear." He hums a chuckle, chilling the woman's nerves.
"What is that?" She asks, suspiciously.
"The song." He answers simply, cryptically, before turning about. He summarily ends the conversation by walking to Dory, whose eyes widened slightly at his words...
Blair's hand itches to Florescent Finish with this kid, feeling off. She nods, however, and exits the building with her needed documents. "EAAAAGLLLLE!" She pauses in the doorway, scowling at the annoying voice. With a grumble, she takes her leave.
As the door closes, Dory shakes and glances at the boy. "U-Um, how may I help you, sir?"
He flinches as Kirran leans over the counter. "Oh, Dory. Don't be so scared. I don't care at all about whatever you two discussed." The direct nature of the response made the man flinch in itself. Kirran smiles wider. "In fact, I only need some business done with our accounts."
Dory gulps, like a deer in headlights, as he sweats profusely. "R-Right sir... But... you're not going to punish me?"
"Heavens, no!" Kirran exclaims with a laugh. The relaxed nature made the man finally chuckle and smile back. However, the moment was fated to end. "Why would I care anyway? Her group's fate is already decided." The man flashed white as a sheet when that sentence processed.
. . .
The boy and girl walk along side by side down the street. The area lit in white light, making it closer to their hotel. Carmine pats his pocket with a dull look. All his excitement for money in the last week, gone. Gone like his money. His dull look softens seeing the now peppy girl beside him. "You realize Blair will stab us for having to bum off her now, right?"
Next to him, Neo marches with a pep in her step. Both her hands remained gripped on HER new weapon. Hands ringing tightly around the transform sheath, as if any moment could see the weapon stolen, she hums happily. A shimmer of her aura forms around Carmine's hand.
He glances at his hand, finding shatter wording on his hand. 'Don't care. She can deal with it.'
Carmine chuckles. "Well, you still haven't shown me what your weapon concept was." He leans over, curious and demanding. "Come oooooon. Show me. You showed that Rama guy."
"Nn. Nn. Nnnnn!" Neo vocalizes the happy negative. A rare occurrence. Her eye twitches as one hand lifts from the weapon to rub her throat. Soon the irritation subsides, and she continues to happily march.
Their hotel comes into view, the kids coming to a halt. Carmine raises a brow. "Huh?" The street was clear... no children out... granted, there's no sunlight, but they weren't gone THAT long, were they? Except, there WAS someone.
In front of the hotel was a man. A BIG man... lumbering like an ominous figure... Shadowed under the awning of the hotel, lighting muted around him. All Carmine could tell was one eye was blocked, the other blood red, and a Cheshire grin shines. "Ah.." A warm, yet serious voice vocalizes. "I heard you were kids, but damn. I didn't want to do this to kids THIS young."
Carmine narrows his eyes at the guy. Something felt off. He looked to Neo, who returned the gaze. He steps forward, right foot forward, left hand creeping down to Heulin Noon. "Excuse me. Who are you?"
For a moment, he can only see the eye and smile. "... Do you hear it?"
Carmine's hand grips his gun. He flicks his gaze back to Neo, seeing her glare at the man. Turning back, he cocks his head. "Pardon? Hear what?" Neo clenches her hands around her sword.
"The Song of the Divine Wind." The voice speaks ominously... then the figure bursts out from the shadows. Insane speed catches the boy by surprise.
Carmine draws Heulin Noon, and takes aim, but the figure is on him too fast. Eyes wide, he shouts out. "Damn-"
And the first hit lands, followed by a shatter.
Our first new location! Mission is a go. Obviously, working towards Neo obtaining her weapon as well. Team is learning to work together, etc.
References:
The town of Mibu, and the majority of its inhabitants, are referenced to the anime/manga Samurai Deeper Kyo. This influences the Japanese architecture of the location and its threats.
Dory is the exception to this, being based off the lawyer, Ted, from Scrubs.
Next time, Chapter Nineteen: Four Winds.