[IC] Tales Of Shizuyama (Far-Eastern Monster Girl RP)

[Crowvette]

Io at Terauchi Temple

@Hammerman@The Irish Tree@PaulHaynek @AzureKnight @Rezod92 @Crowvette @Nakushita @Restalaan

Io took her time tending to wounded as well as she could. Io's growing hunger (or perhaps thirst) for magical energy was becoming more pronounced, especially after the various magic she expended during the battle, but she shoved it aside to aid the survivors of the battle. Of course, she also took note of those who did not survive. Io would have considered this battlefield quite a promising area had the situation surrounding it and her stay at Shizuyama been different. She was on her best behavior, of course, and idle experimentation with such a large amount of corpses would not look good to anyone.

When she had done all that she could, she would join the impromptu strategic meeting that formed amidst the leaders and task force members. "I can help with any of these. Though perhaps the raid would be the best for me." Io would rather be in a situation to attack than rescue, all things considered. She would leave the rescue operation to those with a more suited skill set.

Io's brow furrowed at the discussion of anti-magic. To the others, it may have been the most emotion she had displayed since she came to Shizuyama. "To think they would use such things." The concept of sending them back as projectiles amused Io - a barbaric solution to a barbaric problem. "I wonder how they achieve nullification." There were many avenues to do so, though to a layman the end result would seem the same. She would have wanted to study one of their obelisks, except...

There was a fundamentally troubling issue with anti-magic, in that Io was in no small part suffused with magic from head to toe. 'I may need to inform the Task Force...' She thought to herself. Though it pained Io to reveal a weakness of hers, as well as pained what twisted sense of pride she had, it was true. '...I may need to be physically carried if I am put too far into an anti-magic field...' While it was unlikely that she would be destroyed outright from anti-magic (she had studied extensive contingencies for this), it was very possible that she would not be able to move if put under a strong anti-magic field.

Io would have to find the right time. Not in front of so many people that didn't need to know. And ideally, she would pick someone reliable, level-headed, and unlikely to reveal the secret unless it was absolutely necessary.

'Ah.' A bead of sweat (or perhaps just water from her previously cast spells) rolled down Io's brow. 'Finding someone that fits all of those may be difficult.' She dryly thought to herself as she looked over the task force members near her.

[PaulHaynek]

Terauchi Temple

~ @The Irish Tree (EUL), @Rezod92 ~

"And might I ask who you might be?"

Kerry Maros

"Peace, Hornet. I may look like the Varjans, but I assure you they consider me more an enemy than you are." The Warlock-looking fellow said, noticing Kerry's hand nearing her spear.

"I am Revuel Arvida from the Scarce Legion. My legion has forsaken their oaths to justice and has joined forces with the evil and wicked Varjo. I am here to make sure they don't harm anymore of the innocent and further besmirch the name." Revuel introduced himself. "When I heard that a sizeable force of Scarce Legion was invading Shizuyama, I immediately sought passage. That was how I met Lady Kyouko, and she graciously sent me here to fulfill my mission."

Revuel wanted to say more, but he kept quiet since it appeared that Kerry and Eula has an unfinished conversation. Although, his senses told him it was not a particularly pleasant one.

---

~ @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI), @AzureKnight (SHI, HIN & ATS), @The Irish Tree (LIL), @Hammerman, @Nakushita ~

“....Anyone can verify if we can repurpose those anti-magic obelisks, load them into a catapult and see if it shuts down their magic too?

Skarsneek

"That sounds like a great idea! I think! I wasn't here, so I don't know if they even use magic. But if they do? Great idea,"

Liliana

"Errm, I'm pretty sure those anti-magic obelisks need to be rooted in the ground to actually work. Breaking any part of the device will dispel the effect." Ayu was sheepish in her remark, not wanting to be the bearer of bad news. "I know portable ones can be built, but I don't have the slightest idea on how to build one. Nor do I even know if it's worth building one just to lob it at the enemy. Much less, en masse."

Takeshi nodded. "And the Varjans can probably destroy it before we can take advantage of its effects. The only way for us to use it is have it as a stationary device to neuter the enemy's magic. Problem with that is, our side also utilizes a lot of magic."

"I wonder how they achieve nullification."

Io

"Since we're fighting the Scarce Legion, a legion full of spellcasters, I'm pretty sure they know half-a-dozen spells that can imbue an object with anti-magic properties." Ayu answered Io. "But as spellcasters themselves, we'll probably not see much of these in their ranks. I guess if a fort or encampment doesn't have a Warlock in it, then it's likely you'll see this."

"I can turn invisible! I can help with Komatsu!"

Liliana

"I can help with any of these. Though perhaps the raid would be the best for me."

Io

"So we have madams Liliana and Io for the sneak attack on Komatsu Bay. We can certainly use their abilities to really wallop the Varjan garrison there." Ayu noted cheerfully. "Anyone else? Lord Takeshi?"

"I... think I'm going with Kikyo in rescuing her men." The young lord replied, which prompted the aforementioned woman to raise an eyebrow.

---

---

---

~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~

Komatsu Bay

"Lady Kyouko needs a port to dock her fleet to properly engage the Varjan armada and deliver supplies, and that port will be Komatsu Bay. If we're going to liberate the fortress, we'll need help and Ayu says she has a friend for the job. We can join her and go to this friend's house, just outside Komatsu Bay."
-Takeshi Oja

Second Chance

"We almost have everything we need to save my father. However, we cannot leave the refugees of Terauchi Temple defenseless. We need warriors to fortify and defend the temple while we are away. Kikyo knows of some imprisoned warriors who can help replenish our ranks."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TAKAMORI TALES ~~

Teacher And Student

"Lord Takamori said that his traitorous daughter, Setsuna, is training Varjan archers in Ōmiya. I know this frightens him, even if he tries to hide it. If we don't find her and end this, there may be no stopping the archers, and no hope for Ōmiya Springs. We need to see Lord Takamori immediately."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SORAE TALES ~~

The Husband

"Lady Sorae told me that Kana, Sogen's wife, has disappeared during the attack on the temple. She wants help tracking her down as Kana is the only lead we have on the identities and whereabouts of the killers of Clan Tokinomiya."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~

Whispers In The Woods

A villager woman remarked to the taskforce member as the latter passed by.

"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."

"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."

The Other Side Of Honor

A peasant man eating barbecued meat on a stick was startled when the taskforce member approached. It appeared he has news.

"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."

"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."

Shizuyama's Freedom

A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached. "Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."

"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained."

Bottoms Up

A peasant man warming his hands on a bonfire noticed the taskforce member passing by.

"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."

~~ LEGENDARY TALES ~~

The Heavenly Strike

"Dealing with these students of the Heavenly Strike was more difficult than we thought. They have already thrown back two of the taskforce. However, the yokai fought them separately and at different times, so perhaps a more cooperative approach would be more fruitful."
-Takeshi Oja

[Rezod92]

@PaulHaynek @The Irish Tree (EUL)

"Peace, Hornet. I may look like the Varjans, but I assure you they consider me more an enemy than you are. I am Revuel Arvida from the Scarce Legion. My legion has forsaken their oaths to justice and has joined forces with the evil and wicked Varjo. I am here to make sure they don't harm anymore of the innocent and further besmirch the name. When I heard that a sizeable force of Scarce Legion was invading Shizuyama, I immediately sought passage. That was how I met Lady Kyouko, and she graciously sent me here to fulfill my mission."

"Hello, Kerry. I believe he can be trusted. What brings you here? Did Kikyo deliver my message to you?"

Kerry stared at the bald man for a moment longer....before sighing, hand moving away from her spears as she relaxed.

"Alright. If Eula says you're good, then you're good to me as well, Rev.", she spoke to the rebel Varjan before turning her attention to Eula, grabbing a nearby stool as she made her approach. "And no, I came here on my own. Kikyo was too busy reminding people that 'the mamono are not to be trusted. They're lying deceivers and we don't need their help' and blah blah to-the-surprise-of-fucking-no one blah."

The hornet set the stool down in front of Eula and promptly sat down, taking a deep breath before giving the automaton her full attention.

"First off, I need to know: What happened after I flew off? Part of me expected you to follow, but you didn't, so that must mean you stayed."

[Hammerman]

Mentions: @PaulHaynek

Takamori and Sorae were about to retort even more fiercely if it weren't for Ayu stepping in between the two groups, deciding to do something before the situation escalates. "R-Regardless, the Varjans have been beaten back and most of the refugees have been protected. That's all that matters, right?" She raised her hands to divert as much attention to her as she could.

"She's right," Lunatea nodded. "That's all that matters. The civilians are safe and the Varjans are driven back. What more could you ask?" She glared at Takamori and Sorae.

"Oh, look! Lord Takeshi seem to be planning something with the others! Why don't we go join them?" Ayu shifted the topic to something more important than this feud, leading the group towards Takeshi and the others. Sorae and Takamori gave a look at the yokai, but ultimately said nothing and followed Ayu.

"We should."

Without any more words, she followed Ayu, ignoring the look both of them gave towards her.

ᅠ

She listened in silence as members of the Taskforce argued what they should do next. Moving the villagers somewhere else safer was indeed a wise idea but like Takeshi said, there really didn't seem to be anywhere else safer than this place. Not to mention the logistics of moving that amount of people… Ultimately, it was an option they could not take.

"Hmm, should I stay here then?" The wererabbit offered. "I do still need to recover a little bit more, after using that technique…" Her body was still aching all over and it wouldn't go away until a few days had passed.

"Anti magic?" Lunatea furrowed her brows. "To think they would go that far… It makes sense though, knowing how most of us are youkai. Though obviously they wouldn't employ it where it would neuter their own magical capabilities…"

Some of the ruins she visited did have anti-magic traps. Thankfully, the traps didn't really neuter her own monster strength so she wasn't completely helpless against them. And yes, that included just destroying the anti-magic device with her kick. Normally though, she would seek for the deactivation switch first.

[AzureKnight]

---

Terauchi Temple

---

^{@PaulHaynek@Enkryption@The Irish Tree@Restalaan@Rezod92@Crowvette@Nakushita@Hammerman}

---

Shizuka was pleased to see that most of the taskforce members hadn't lost too much stride after the battle, and were already discussing their next move. Although, he was able to tell that some members, like Luna and Io, were quite fatigued. He wised that the force had a little more time to rest, but it appeared that wouldn't be the case.

He had returned from his "talk" with Alice, his heart a bit heavy to bid farewell to her and Carroll. He thought it'd be best to tell Takeshi and the others the news...

"Takeshi-dono," he said. "I'm glad you and everyone else seem to be fairing well. However, there's something that you and everyone else should know." He paused for a moment. "Alice-san and Carroll-chan seem to have left the taskforce, I can confirm because I sensed their chi fading further from the vicinity. Where they plan to go, I don't know, but I felt that you all should know regardless." Shizuka spoke so that everyone present could hear him.

"As for now, I would suggest that anyone who's too injured or tired from the recent attack should stay behind and recover for now. You'll be no good to anyone dead, so no need to push yourself." The ronin continued. "In addition, Ayu-san, I will accompany you on the Komatsu Bay operation. Io-san, Lili-chan, and I will join our talents together for this operation." He looked with a solemn expression. "Io-san, you probably want to hide it, but I can sense that you've used up a great deal of your chi in that battle. If you truly want to go, I won't stop you. But, you're going to need help with this. Plus, a being like yourself won't fare well under an anti-magic field, I'd hazard to guess."

Shizuka then turned to Lord Takeshi. "Takeshi-dono, I wish you and Kikyo-san the best of luck on liberating the imprisoned fighters."

---

The Hangai sisters where relatively fine after the conflict, if still a bit anxious. It was bittersweet, it seemed like after aiding Yurine in the cemetery, they barely got any opportunity to rest in the time between then and the recent attack. The injures Hinami had received in the fight had already healed thanks to her biology, and Atsuha didn't expend that much magic either. They both listened as Shizuka explained that Alice and Carroll had left.

"Aww, the plant lady and the talking sword left? I hope they'll be ok." She said in an innocent, but melancholic tone.

"I'm sure she'll be fine, Nee-chan. She is a queen, after all, as she love to keep reminding us of." Atsuha said, attempting to cheer her up.

They listened to the group as they discussed their next strategy. Takeshi had decided to go with Kikyo in order to liberate the imprisoned warriors. She felt the young lord's hesitation and lack of confidence in his decision. It was as if something had compelled her to aid the lord in this case.

"Skars-kun," she said to her lover. "I feel that it would be best for us to aid Takeshi-san in his endeavor. If you feel your skills are best suited for another mission, I understand. My sister and I will be sure to take care while out."

The sisters then walked over to Takeshi and Kikyo. "Would you care to have us tag along, my young lord?" Atsuha said. She politely bowed to Kikyo. "Hello Kikyo-san, my name is Hangai Atsuha, it's a pleasure to meet you. All things considered, we hope to lend our aid in rescuing those prisoners."

"Same here! Oh, sorry! My name is Hangai Hinami, it's also a pleasure!" Hinami said, following suit with her sister, if a bit more clumsily.

"Kikyo-san, is there anything more you can tell us about the encampment that the prisoners are being held at? Warrior types, the surrounding layout?"

[The Irish Tree]

Liliana

---

@AzureKnight(SHI), @Crowvette

Finally! Finally, finally, finally, Liliana was going to get to see Io's magic in full action! Team pink was finally formed, and Liliana was eager to get going as soon as possible. "Io, I'm glad I'll finally get to see your super wizard magic in action! I kinda showed up right at the end here, but I'm sure you were blowing things up left and right." The fairy would shrink down to her actual size, eagerly flying about. This was going to be great! They'd blow up some Varjan troops, have an adventure, and Liliana could tell Alice all..about...it..

...Oh. Right. She wasn't here right now. Liliana would look around for her once again, expecting her to be off somewhere alone with Carroll but... "She'll turn up eventually! Lady Alice is probably already off on another mission, is all..." the fairy thought to herself, clapping her hands against her cheeks to pep herself back up. And now, Shizuka was even volunteering to go with them! Liliana would flutter over to him and proudly stand on his shoulder. "Mhm! Me and Shizuka have experience in attacking places with lots of water around them by now, so this'll be cake! And if Io's tired, we can give her some cover. Right?" The fairy said, then asked, turning to Shizuka and sitting down on his shoulder.

Eula

---

@Rezod92

"Well...I must admit, I'm rather upset Kikyo didn't pass my message along." The automaton would cross her arms, displaying perhaps the most emotion she'd had in a while as she pouted. "Especially after she ranted at me about how I was simply saving lives so they'd be indebted to me."

Then, Kerry's question came. Tilting her head quizzically, Eula would express her confusion with: "You left, and as such were no longer a threat to the humans in the village. I had no reason to give chase." Perhaps, now it was becoming clearer to Kerry that Eula...didn't actually have any desire to fight her at all, back there. Or even now. "After you and Relica left, I followed the Monk back to his actual home, and there I helped cure the villagers of the disease that was affecting them. It turned out to simply be some poison in the well that was causing the issue. Likely Varjans."

Eula would turn to Revuel, a smile on her face. "My thanks for re-attaching my arm. And, even moreso for your bravery in aiding these people. If there is ever anything I can do to help you, please let me know."

[Rezod92]

@The Irish Tree

"Well...I must admit, I'm rather upset Kikyo didn't pass my message along. Especially after she ranted at me about how I was simply saving lives so they'd be indebted to me."

"Tch, I believe you.", Kerry scoffed. "The sentiment is probably shared by everyone in Takeshi's inner circle. So ungrateful."

"You left, and as such were no longer a threat to the humans in the village. I had no reason to give chase. After you and Relica left, I followed the Monk back to his actual home, and there I helped cure the villagers of the disease that was affecting them. It turned out to simply be some poison in the well that was causing the issue. Likely Varjans."

The hornet stared at Eula with wide eyes, stunned at this revelation. Turns out there WAS village that was sick. Which means....

I robbed a monk of his money for no reason.

Regret and guilt suddenly manifested within her, like giant cockroaches that were crawling up her back.

"Are you serious?", Kerry uttered as she got up and began pacing, chitinous hands on her head as she came to grips over what she had done. "Then why the hell were we at that first village!? Why waste our time going there instead of going straight to the one that needed our help!? Now I feel like an absolute shithead! I...I have to tell Shizuka about this! FUCK!"

At this point, Kerry stopped pacing and took deep breaths to calm herself down. She'll have to resolve this issue as well. Sooner rather than later because if word got around that a member of the taskforce robbed a monk, it would destroy any and all trust the locals may have had with them, however meager that trust was. For now though....

"Okay, note to self: Give that monk his money back. Feel free to hold me to that promise, Eula.", she proclaimed as she sat back down to resume the discussion. "Second and final topic: Why did you shoot a warning shot at me? I get it, I robbed a local and that definitely is a major no-no in the taskforce. But like Relica said, that shot could've taken my head off. I've never seen an automaton react that strongly before. So...why?"

[Crowvette]

Io

~ @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI), @AzureKnight (SHI, HIN & ATS), @The Irish Tree (LIL), @Hammerman, @Nakushita ~

Ayu's answers helped Io gain some insight into her question. Though they were likely a net positive to the enemy, the nullification obelisks were thankfully not one-sided - that kind of magic was likely beyond their spellcasters. In a sense, they could be seen as a marker that their spellcasters were elsewhere. Any amount of information helped, at least.

Io averted her gaze at Shizuka's words for several reasons. 'They left the task force? That is...' Io would have personally labelled Alice and Carrol as the most unpredictable force on the island... Relative to their potential impact, at least, since Liliana would take that classification otherwise. Either way, she didn't like the implications. She could only hope they were working towards a goal that still aligned with the task force.

Of course, the other reason Io averted her eyes was that he managed to notice her fatigue. A small part of her was flattered, though the swordsman's senses were so keen that she doubted he was studying her particularly intently to discern her 'chi.' He probably would notice much more if he took time to study her...

Io blinked, refocusing both her eyes and train of thought. "It's nothing serious. Like Liliana said, we will cover each other." She gave a nod to Liliana, who seemed to have had her own idea about what Io did during the battle (not that Io would correct her).

"Plus." She coyly turned. "I am still plenty good while dead." In truth she had thought of that retort the moment the words passed Shizuka's lips, but she had to wait for the right time - especially since Liliana was here. Io felt it necessary to prove that her cleverness was not limited to the realm of magic.

[Restalaan]

@Hammerman@The Irish Tree@PaulHaynek @AzureKnight @Rezod92 @Crowvette @Nakushita

Skarsneek & Gringor

"Hold up they left?" Skarsneek tilted his head before rubbing it in dismay, that's another fighting force lost. He wondered why on earth did they left at such a crucial moment.

"They found a better fight?" Gringor asked Takeshi, that's probably the only reason he can think of. Not like he was complaining, more fight. Shame they had to leave before they can go bash those heavenly bois. Guess he and Shizuka will have to figure it out, though he wondered if Takeshi was willing to join.

"Bah." Skarsneek clicked his tongue but refrained from commenting further as Atsuha and Hinami voiced where they'd go.

Tapping his fingers, he wondered if he should join them and help Takeshi, the raid on the bay was more of his thing but prison busting is also something he can do.

He eyed his fellow strugglers, then his wife, and Takeshi with Kikyo on the side.

Decisions, decisions.

"I understand," Skarsneek nodded towards Atsuha and Hinami, trusting them on their decision. The two weren't that weak and the big picture take precedent here. "I'll help out the raid on the bay. You'll need some muscles at least to break in and fight back if they got more of those Obelisk."

"Take care, alright?" He rested a hand on Atsuha back and pulled her gently to his side before separating after longer than necessary.

Gringor didn't took long to make his own decision. "If Bois need head to be cracked to fight, then Gringor follow Underboss Takeshi."

That drew a look of annoyance from Skarsneek but a realization came as he considered the choice.

Atsuha would no doubt draw tons of heated looks, but Hinami and Gringor could pass for a human. At a far glance and if the latter wore a bag on his head. One that could help in the midst of chaos, combined with the latter strength, it was a higher chance.

Bah, he hated it but he had no luxury on the matter.

"Don't screw up and free the wrong people."

"Gobbo better hit right target then, and not his friend."

There was less heat in the two banter, this time at least.

[PaulHaynek]

Terauchi Temple

~ @The Irish Tree (EUL), @Rezod92 ~

"...I feel this discussion is something, deeply personal." Revuel awkwardly observed the banter between Eula and Kerry. "I shall excuse myself."

The spellcaster moved to leave but had some parting words. "Oh, and you are very welcome, madam Automaton. Once we have some free time, I shall attempt to repair your eyes as well. Simply seek me out."

---

~ @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA & GRI), @AzureKnight (SHI, HIN & ATS), @The Irish Tree (LIL), @Hammerman, @Nakushita ~

"Would you care to have us tag along, my young lord? ...Kikyo-san, is there anything more you can tell us about the encampment that the prisoners are being held at? Warrior types, the surrounding layout?"

Atsuha Hangai

"Of course, Madam Atsuha." Takeshi quickly answered, the words almost getting stuck in his throat. "You're very much welcome to join us."

Kikyo glared at the Hangai sisters, making her contempt for the yokai clear. Takeshi wanted to intervene but he feared setting off his already fuming childhood friend and so, could only look on nervously. However, Kikyo closed her eyes and sighed before adopting a softer expression. "I suppose it's also a pleasure to meet you, Hangai sisters. I heard you also saved Lord Takeshi in Sanjo Beach. You have my gratitude for that."

"As for your question, the prisoners are held in Fort Tanabe. The fort is pretty small and the Varjan garrison is relatively light... but that's more than enough to defend the place. The fort is on top of a plateau, with only one road going in and out. The garrison only needs to guard and fortify that one opening." Kikyo explained. "The plateau is steep and rocky. Climbing it is nigh-impossible."

"Alice-san and Carroll-chan seem to have left the taskforce, I can confirm because I sensed their chi fading further from the vicinity. Where they plan to go, I don't know, but I felt that you all should know regardless."

Shizuka Kannazuki

"What...?" Takeshi did not wait for a response. He turned around and whistled for his horse, Kuro, who quickly answered his master's call and galloped to Takeshi's side.

"You're going to leave me with yokai?!" Kikyo demanded from her lord. "I thought you were going with me?"

"I am going with you." Takeshi assured as he embarked his horse. "Go on ahead to the watchtower at the bottom of the Fort Tanabe plateau. I'll either meet you or catch up with you there. Don't worry, this won't take long." The young lord then rode off in search of the rogue Alice and Carroll.

"...The yokai has thoroughly seduced him." Kikyo remarked as she watched Takeshi exit the temple grounds.

"He just considers them as his friends." Takamori said, in defense of the young lord. "He did the same thing for Kazenosuke, remember?"

"I thought we all agreed never to speak about that ever again." The aforementioned dancing swordsman complained.

Kikyo addressed the taskforce members going with her so far: Atsuha, Hinami and Gringor. "I shall hold my lord to his word. Let's go, yokai. I don't wanna find him already waiting for us there." The last Kinkakuji led the trio of yokai from the temple and toward Fort Tanabe, much to her consternation.

Ayu then spoke to the taskforce members going with her so far: Shizuka, Liliana, Io and Skarsneek. "Not gonna lie, this is going to be a huge undertaking. I advise taking a few hours of rest before heading out. I'll ride out first, though, to meet up with our contact and inform him about what's gonna happen. Here, I'll show you where his house is. We'll meet up there." The head spy then gave the taskforce members the directions.

---

= Several Hours Later =

---

Komatsu Bay Outskirts

BREAKTHROUGH

~ @AzureKnight (SHI), @The Irish Tree (LIL), @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA) ~

The sun was setting, bathing the land with orange, when taskforce group found the solitary house some ways away from the Komatsu fortress. It seemed a simple wooden home of a typical peasant, albeit larger than most. The group also heard arguing inside with one of the voices belonging to Ayu.

"...keep everything quiet."

"You want quiet?!" A squeaky, male voice responded. "Don't ask me to rile up people who use blood as paint!"

"I wasn't asking." Ayu declared. "Not after Kirisame Shrine."

"That was a misunderstanding..."

"That was a scared Ronin warrior trying to wriggle out of trouble."

"And it worked! I offloaded that sour rice water and you--"

"--had to look over my shoulder, for a month!" Ayu finished. "You owe me, Shizuka."

When the taskforce entered the home, they found Ayu talking to a short but wide, youthful and innocent-looking man with dark brown hair wearing peasant clothes. "Shizuyama's counting on us." Ayu added.

"...I love this island as much as the next guy, but this is too dangerous. It'll never work." Noticing the taskforce that entered his house, he remarked to Ayu. "These the yokai?" He sounded unimpressed.

"You can call them 'Lady Kyouko's Taskforce'." Ayu replied.

The short man, apparently named Shizuka, gasped and quickly bowed his head. "Forgive me, my lords and ladies!" He then raised his head to introduce himself. "I am Shizuka! Upstanding merchant, renowned sake brewer."

"And the best swindler on the island!" Ayu interjected. "That's why he's going to help us sneak into Komatsu Bay."

"I keep telling you, that place is a fortress." The swindler Shizuka retorted. "You'll need an army to penetrate the walls."

"Or, a single delivery of sake."

The swindler let out a sarcastic chuckle before declaring. "It'll never work."

---

Near Fort Tanabe

SECOND CHANCE

~ @AzureKnight (HIN & ATS), @Restalaan (GRI) ~

Under a setting sun, Kikyo and the taskforce group arrived at the base of the plateau where Fort Tanabe was situated in. Indeed, there was a watchtower here although unoccupied. The Kinkakuji lady looked up to behold the steep and rocky plateau, stony terrain covered all sides save for one: The sole entrance and exit of the fort. The rocks formed such a natural barrier that one could not even see the fort from the bottom.

"...and the road's winding too." Kikyo remarked to herself before turning to the yokai taskforce. "We'll wait here for Lord Takeshi, but I doubt he would want us to wait long so we'll begin the rescue in a few minutes. Assuming, of course, we have a plan to break into the fort and free the prisoners. Whom the Varjans will likely kill once they realize what's going on."

"Got any bright ideas, yokai?"

---

Terauchi Temple

~ @Hammerman ~

Lunatea had stayed in the temple to rest after exerting herself in the previous battle. She found herself in the company of Revuel Arvida, who was using telekinetic magic to lift rubble and debris into a neat pile to be cleaned later. "So if I am not mistaken, you are some sort of scholar? Neither seasoned fighter nor warrior?" Revuel spoke to the Wererabbit as he worked.

"I understand that the taskforce was formed to simply spy on the natives about their... deteriorating dealings with The Order. But as you can see, the situation has drastically changed. Combat is at the forefront of the taskforce." Revuel continued. "So why do you stay, Madam Lunatea? Out of pure kindness? I know some monsters who are like that. Or perhaps you fancy one of the locals?"

Before Lunatea could reply, however, a tired Takeshi arrived on his horse. "...I can't find them anywhere." He said to himself as he disembarked.

"No sign of this Alice--"

*SHINE*

Bright, white light shone from the teleportation pagoda, someone had arrived. Takeshi looked to Revuel, both men realizing that the usual greeter, Ayu, was not present. "Go meet them, milord. I shall join you as soon as I'm done with this." Revuel said to which Takeshi nodded and went off. "Going to join him, Madam Lunatea?"

---

~ @Enkryption ~

Alice awakened in a dim, wooden, unfamiliar room. It was thematically Far Eastern, likely somewhere in the Zipanguese Isles in one of their temples. Four pillars stood to support the chamber and on one side, there was a simple shrine with some unlit candles and a few statues. On the opposite side were a set of sliding doors, sunlight shining through them.

One of the sliding doors opened and a young human man with brown hair and red robes clothing entered the chamber. "Hey there! I am Lord Takeshi Oja and welcome to Shizuyama." The young lord greeted, unaware of who he was talking due to the difference in appearance. "Are you sent here by this Lady Kyouko to join the taskforce? Because if so, then you're in luck! You've been successfully teleported to their headquarters." He told Alice with names unknown to her.

"You know, you look a lot like someone I know."

---

---

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~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~

Breakthrough (ONGOING)

"Lady Kyouko needs a port to dock her fleet to properly engage the Varjan armada and deliver supplies, and that port will be Komatsu Bay. If we're going to liberate the fortress, we'll need help and Ayu says she has a friend for the job. We can join her and go to this friend's house, just outside Komatsu Bay."
-Takeshi Oja

Second Chance (ONGOING)

"We almost have everything we need to save my father. However, we cannot leave the refugees of Terauchi Temple defenseless. We need warriors to fortify and defend the temple while we are away. Kikyo knows of some imprisoned warriors who can help replenish our ranks."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TAKAMORI TALES ~~

Teacher And Student

"Lord Takamori said that his traitorous daughter, Setsuna, is training Varjan archers in Ōmiya. I know this frightens him, even if he tries to hide it. If we don't find her and end this, there may be no stopping the archers, and no hope for Ōmiya Springs. We need to see Lord Takamori immediately."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SORAE TALES ~~

The Husband

"Lady Sorae told me that Kana, Sogen's wife, has disappeared during the attack on the temple. She wants help tracking her down as Kana is the only lead we have on the identities and whereabouts of the killers of Clan Tokinomiya."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~

Whispers In The Woods

A villager woman remarked to the taskforce member as the latter passed by.

"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."

"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."

The Other Side Of Honor

A peasant man eating barbecued meat on a stick was startled when the taskforce member approached. It appeared he has news.

"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."

"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."

Shizuyama's Freedom

A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached.

"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."

"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained."

Bottoms Up

A peasant man warming his hands on a bonfire noticed the taskforce member passing by.

"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."

~~ LEGENDARY TALES ~~

The Heavenly Strike

"Dealing with these students of the Heavenly Strike was more difficult than we thought. They have already thrown back two of the taskforce. However, the yokai fought them separately and at different times, so perhaps a more cooperative approach would be more fruitful."
-Takeshi Oja

[Hammerman]

Mentions: @PaulHaynek

In the end, Lunatea decided to stay in the temple, nursing her wounds. She spent most of her days in her bed, either sleeping or staring off into the distance. Sometimes she would go out to interview the refugees to add to her notes of the island. Sometimes she would spend hours jotting down things in her notebook, ignoring any servants that brought her food and drinks.

Until one day, she just so happened to cross paths with Revuel, who proceeded to ask her a question.

"Yes, I am a scholar," the wererabbit answered, her eyebrows slightly raised as she didn't expect such a question to be sprung at her out of nowhere like this. "I investigate ancient ruins and make theories regarding how they came to be and what kind of people inhabited the place before they went extinct. I am very much not a warrior but I am capable of defending myself, all thanks to the monster physiology and the artifact I wore." Her Slyph-blessed magic panties. "What of it?" she asked back, her tone sounding a little defiant.

When he asked why she stayed in such a combat-intensive situation, she paused for a bit, trying to put her thoughts into words.

Unfortunately, before she could answer, Takeshi stormed into the courtyard on his horse, announcing that he could not find Alice. Ah, that troublemaker, Lunatea thought to herself. If she doesn't want to stay, then who are we to stop her?

Suddenly, a bright light crashed down from the sky into the teleportation pagoda. "A new arrival?!" Lunatea exclaimed. Another one? Don't we have enough people already?

"Yes, I'll come with Takeshi," she answered Revuel's question. "Might as well see who the new arrival is."

[Enkryption]

---

ATTN: @PaulHaynek (Ian), @Hammerman (Lunatea)

---

First Impressions (Redux)

A crack, like thunder, before the flash of lightning.

That’s what Alice remembered.

The Queen of Hearts. Her mythical blade. A clash of vorpal steel.

That’s what Carroll remembered.

The Queen of Diamonds, run through, and shot down once more.

That’s what they remembered.

The rest, a hazy memory; fractured and scattered, in disparate parts. Fingers reached out, clawing at the glittering shards; cutting flesh with regret to bone, and releasing them all to the pain of loss...

Losing a fight.

Losing a war.

Losing a kingdom.

Losing... self.

Losing... the right to lose.

She took even that, the capricious she-devil... daughter of the Demon Lord.

Truly, the Queen of Hearts.

"GEH!!!" Alice awoke with a start, her eyes scanned the area, as her hands reached for her living blade. Eyes barely adjusted, but she knew the light streaming in was indicative of society - caves didn’t shore up their entrances with sliding doors, after all. Finding her blade, she rose to her feet, and looked around the shrine - Humans. A better hand than could have been... - before the door sudden slid to the side. A man stood with the simplest of greetings, and the boldest of claims:

"Hey there! I am Lord Takeshi Oja and welcome to Shizuyama.

Are you sent here by this Lady Kyouko to join the taskforce? Because if so, then you're in luck! You've been successfully teleported to their headquarters.

You know, you look a lot like someone I know."

Takeshi

He knew her?

"Carroll..." Alice drew the blade, "Nozarashi"

"Right, right... no rest for the wicked..." groused the Sword Devil, as she was drawn from her shikomizue scabbard in the form of a massive hatchet.

"Tempo...." Alice set her feet, and both hands on the handle, “"Allegro!"

Lunatea soon arrived afterwards. Just like Takeshi, she didn't quite recognize the girl she was looking at either.

"Yes, have I seen you before?" She crunched her eyebrows. "You look familiar…"

"Well, whoever you are, welcome to the Taskforce. I am Lunatea vern Farnsworth." She walked up to her and offered her hand.

Alice narrowed her eyes, as she winced - Why... this pain... - before recovering, and drawing back her arms in a massive, overhead cleave. "Hatc-hit!" she shouted, slamming Carroll into the floor; ending Luna's approach in an instant, and coated the air with dust like a smokescreen. 'Prowl...'

Suddenly, Alice's Demonic Energy vanished, replaced by her Spirit Energy, and fading into the dust. Luna was forced onto her heels out of the blue, and had to rely on her ears to pull movement out of the dust.

However, the Mana that had shifted from Demonic to Human was eerily familiar...

...as was this reaction to her.

"What the—" The wererabbit jumped back when the newcomer swung her sword. "Hey, what do you think you're doing?!"

The room was now filled with dust, blinding the wererabbit from her surroundings. Kneeling down on her heels, she could only rely on her sharp ears to figure out any movements obscured from her.

That, and the sudden and abrupt shift in the mana permeating through the room.

What's this? Her demonic mana is gone? And now I'm feeling a human's spirit energy instead…

Wait, I remember this sensation!

She stood up, gazing straight towards the newcomer. "You're Alice, aren't you?"

Suddenly, the dust cleared, and revealed the cutting edge of the demonic hatchet was inches from Luna's face. "How do you know my name..."

Luna gulped, sweat trailing down her face as her gaze was locked at the sharp edge of the hatchet.

"Y-your Spirit Energy… it feels just like hers!"

What is going on here?!

"ANSWER THE QUESTION!" Alice shouted, inching the blade edge forward with a sharp jerk, almost cutting into Luna's cute nose.

"Oi, oi. Not the nose, now." Carroll groused.

"You were here before!" Luna answered. "Or at least, someone else that has the exact same Spirit Energy like you! She introduced herself as Alice but she looked different from you!"

Impossible... I was... I was just in Wonderland..." Alice says, lowering her blade. What did she do to me... That bitch..."

Alice looked at Luna, You are no March Hare. Where the hell am I..."

The wererabbit glanced at Takeshi, hoping for his support in answering her question.

"You're on the Island of Shizuyama, inside the teleportation pagoda. You should've come from the mainland."

"I came from Wonderland..." Alice says. I was fighting The Queen of Hearts... then... she stabbed me, and everything went blank... I can't remember anything..."

Takeshi’s heart skipped a beat when Lunatea identified the newcomer as Alice, the same one that apparently went renegade. His mind searched for possible answers, even as he evaded Alice’s attacks alongside the Wererabbit.

When the dusty smokescreen cleared and Alice had her hatchet near Lunatea’s face, Takeshi appeared behind the newcomer and was about to draw his tanto near her neck to make her stop when he noticed something peculiar looking at her back. “Huh?”

A small piece of paper was attached to Alice’s back with a light adhesive. Takeshi, curious, took the note which Alice would undoubtedly feel. “It’s… a letter?” The young lord showed the piece of paper to the girls and the latter saw a huge, single ‘I’ letter written on it. “Oh, there’s a message behind it.”

Hey there, taskforce! Mysterious benefactor here! You might be wondering why Alice and Carroll are acting this way and let me tell you: I have no idea! Alice and Carroll contacted me to return to Wonderland since they’re fed up with Shizuyama and I obliged them. However, something weird happened when they tried to enter Wonderland and they were quickly… spat out, so to say. I have a feeling that came with side effects. Watch out for memory loss or bodily deformities. Maybe just memory loss, though.

P.S. Takeshi is ugly and Shizuka is way more handsome.

Takeshi raised an eyebrow at the last line but decided not to dwell on it. “Alice, the last thing you remember is back in Wonderland, right?” He asked the newcomer. “You don’t remember me, or Lunatea, or this place? At all? Lady Kyouko and the taskforce don’t ring any bells?”

"The last thing I remember is... the final battle of the Kingdom Gerrenson, in the snowy shadow of the Miroe Mountains..." Alice says, "...everything burning down... melting away... Her sword, Heartbeat...

Carroll snarled, as she glowed, and transformed into a woman that looked better suited to a school than battle. The only sword to equal me and my sisters..." she crossed her arms. Not of those names ring bells, plain and simple. Clearly, you know us, but I surely do not know you."

"...just who are we to you, boy?" Alice turned, and crossed her arms to Takeshi, allowing him to take in her full body as the light bathed over her.

Takeshi was sullen when it was apparent that Alice and Carroll truly did not know him. A part of him wondered if these two were really the Alice and Carroll he knew but when he looked at this new Alice, the resemblance was there. And her weapon transformed into a person, very much like Carroll. It took a moment for the young lord to answer.

“I… was a friend to you. Same with Lunatea.” Takeshi decided not to tell the whole story of their… complicated relationship. “You were part of a taskforce assembled by Lady Kyouko to help this island, Shizuyama.” He continued to explain. “Your relationship with the taskforce was… strained, but you were with them.”

“But I suppose right now, you know nothing of them. Or me or, anything else really.” Takeshi then sighed before turning to. “Lunatea, what do you think we should do? Alice and Carroll, the original ones, may have come here on their own volition, but these ones haven’t. I don’t want to involve outsiders into a battle they are not aware of, much less have stakes in unless they voluntarily join.”

"I don't believe you in the slightest..." Alice says, as she fluffed her coat. "I am the esteemed Queen of Diamonds, I don't do friends," she says, before looking away bitterly, "Friends die..."

Carroll sniffed the air, and hummed. "Alice... I think... the Human isn't lying... at least, in full..." she smirked, "His Mana has been spiking since he realized you and whoever you are to him are one and the same. Specifically..." Carroll raised her hand to her mouth, before making a jerking motion, while pushing her tongue against her cheek. "Hehehe...~"

"The lies you tell! Damnable sword! Crude bitch!" Alice snapped, before storming over to Takeshi to sniff him.

At the revelations that were occuring in front of her, Lunatea could only stand there speechless. So, they're technically the same people? But not really? The workings of Wonderland are beyond most monsters, including her. Who knows what could happen in that place?

"You're right," she replied to Takeshi. "It's not right to make them fight if they never really agreed to do so in the first place. Unfortunately, unless we can send them back to the mainland, it will be really difficult to have them not be dragged into combat."

She turned to face Alice and her sword, the latter now having transformed into a humanoid form. "We're here to fight against the Varjans and save the people of this island. If you don't share our goal, then we won't force you to fight. Unfortunately, the Varjans will most likely force you into akfight anyway, thinking you're on our side."

Alice's storming stride paused midstep, and pivoted on her grounded heel, "Varjans? Force me? Perhaps, you did not hear me..." she says, "I am the esteemed Queen of Diamonds! There is no force that can subjugate me!" Alice boasted, "From the sound of it, you need someone capable of subjugation in their own right. Fortunately, for you, I am benevolent to Humans and Mamono alike."

Carroll grunted, "So, we're raising our swords for another pathetic lot?"

"Pathetic," Alice smiled, and laughed, "No, no. It is the same as always," she held out her hand to Carroll, "I raise my blade against tyranny; destroy the Heart and silence the Heartbeat."

"Such is the goal..." Carroll says, taking the extended hand in her own. "It's your lucky day, little Human. You've gained royal aid."

Lunatea didn't expect they would end up agreeing to assist them in the end. She glanced back at Takeshi, waiting for his reaction.

Well, they do look like they can handle themselves in a fight… and we do need all the hands we can get…

Still, she would keep an eye on them. Just in case.

Takeshi was blushing, since Carroll managed to identify Alice’s scent on him. Fortunately, Lunatea managed to shift the topic where Alice agreed to help Shizuyama. “Well, I’m glad you’ve decided to fight against Varjan tyranny but…” The young lord scratched the back of his head. “This isn’t going to be a normal liberation, alright? The people of this island and Varjo are once united against… well, you and your kind: The yokai. It’s only recently that this invasion started, so the people here will still be suspicious of you.” He explained.

“All I’m saying is: Don’t expect much gratitude or reverence if you help out.” Takeshi finished. “If you want to back out, that’s all fine with me. And I believe this teleportation circle goes two ways. All we need is a spellcaster to send anyone back to… wherever Lady Kyouko is.”

"Under my banner I have wed the hearts and loins of Human and Mamono. People follow strength, and the example of, thus why I shine as brightly as a diamond," Alice says, smirking, "If you need to bring the hearts and mind of your people and ours, I suggest knocking up the bunny. People are suckers for babies, and there ain't cuter babies than bunlets."

Takeshi had to plant his palm onto his face at the reply. “...That would just make the people of my island hate us even more.” He remarked with a sigh. “But at least you’re confident and optimistic. If you’re really sure about staying, then welcome to Shizuyama, Ladies Alice and Carroll. Again, I suppose.”

"I bid you welcome as well." Lunatea bowed.

Inside her mind, however, she was just as worried as Takeshi that the two might just end up worsening the relationship between monsters like her and the humans that lived on this island.

Alice grinned broadly, while Carroll smirked, before they looked at each other, and high fived.

"TEA PARTY!"

Surging forward, Alice and Carroll would snatch Takeshi and Lunatea, respectively, for a glorious tea party. They had a Dormouse and March Hare, after all, even if it was just a lord as threatening as a one and an inferior stand-in.

However, after a massive battle, the loss of life and livelihood, maybe... a party as grand as only a Mad Hatter could think, and manage, to throw.

[The Irish Tree]

Liliana

---

[@Breakthrough Crew!]
Liliana had to wonder...why was everyone lying? Alice wouldn't up and leave. After all...she was a queen Liliana had absolute confidence in. There's no way someone like that would just leave her friends behind!

...Right?

Liliana wasn't sure, but she was sure Shizuka wasn't a liar but...m-maybe Alice went on a secret mission, and couldn't tell anybody. She's the type to go off on her lonesome and do something dangerous, then brush it off as if it was nothing. Liliana just hoped she'd come back soon.

Still, Liliana would be uncharacteristically quiet during the journey, at least until it was time for the mission. Ayu seemed to be talking to someone, and when he was introduced, Liliana was...confused. "So...Shizuka is Shizuka's brother?" the little fairy would flutter over and gently poke the newly introduced Shizuka's cheeks, chuckling. "Its kinda bouncy! And, if you're shipping sake, I could turn invisible and sneak in with it. Or, Io could put a sleeping spell on the drinks or something," Liliana said, joyfully smushing the swindler's cheeks while they formed their plan.

"Plus, I bet it'll work! If this Shizuka's as brave as our Shizuka, then his name isn't Shizukan't! ...Or...I guess that doesn't really work. Forget it. But pleaaaaase Mr. Shorter, more-fun-to-poke Shizuka? Won't you help us?"

---

Eula

---

@Rezod92

"Hm?"

The automaton was confused on Kerry's confusion. ...Was it not to be expected that they were simply making a stop? He hadn't ever said that the village they'd gone to was their final stop. But, Kerry did at least seem remorseful of what her and Relica had done. The automaton would nod thoughtfully. "I will make sure you keep that promise, Kerry. I promise."

Then came the question of why Eula hadn't simply ended Kerry then and there. Even if she meant to just take the money back for the monk, it was always within Eula's power to sneak one clean shot on Kerry to retrieve it. Eula would hum, seemingly wondering that herself as she tipped her own chin up, casting eyes to the ceiling. "...I suppose...it was more than directive driving me. I was angry. Very much so. I weighed the option of a fatal attack. After all, Monsters are able to be hurt more severely with our own energy than the humans its meant to tempt and beguile. But..."

Eula would look back to Kerry and approach her, without malice or anger in her eyes, motion, or mechanical heart as she tenderly cupped the hornet girl's cheek in her left hand. "Its because I knew you and Relica weren't bad people. You were just confused, given the situation." Kerry would likely notice...Eula was different from before. Somehow...perhaps something had broken. Releasing Kerry's cheek, Eula would take a step back. "There is still a lot to do, given the Varjans' recent boldness. I won't allow them to hurt people as they please."

[Rezod92]

@PaulHaynek @The Irish Tree (EUL)

Despite blushing at the intimate contact, Kerry was rendered speechless. Not just from Eula's words, but from her actions as well. The hornet has rarely ever seen.....well, any mamono behave like this. The level of compassion that Eula showed was.....damn near human. She could see it in the automaton's eyes, yet....there was also something else in them.

A part of her that was......damaged. Broken.....and it was something that no workshop can fix.

Seeing this reminded Kerry of a certain lesson.....Back in those simpler days...

Flashback

"Your feet are open."

"Huh? My fee-GAH!"

A younger and smaller Kerry fell on her bottom in a clearing near a forest. The 18-year-old insectoid got back on her feet, pouting as she glared at her sparring partner. A tall, dark-skinned man wearing a simple tan shirt with rolled up sleeves and brown trousers. Twirling his wooden staff before resting it on his shoulder, he walked up to the little mamono with a smirk.

"You were distracted again.", he spoke in a deep yet warm voice.

"That's because I finally got past your guard, dad! I got excited from that!", Kerry responded while pointing with her own staff, trying to justify where perceived credit was due.

"Yes, you did. But the goal was for you to make me move from my spot without using magic, which you have not done yet. Only when you've done so, we'll proceed with your training.", her father replied, earning him an even bigger pout from his daughter, which only made him chuckle before looking up to see the sun high in the sky. "It's midday. Come, let's head on home. Your mother is preparing lunch."

Later, the father and daughter duo were seen walking through the woods, conversating.

"So, still want to travel the world when you grow up?"

"Ugh, yes, dad. I still want to do it. Did mom convince you to talk me out of it now?"

"She's trying to talk you out of it because she loves you and worries about you, kiddo."

"I-I know that. And why am I the exception? Mom didn't have a problem with Quinn, Wendy and Orissa when we saw them off."

"Quinn is a spitting image of your mother, has her own dungeon, found her husband with it and is expecting their first child. Wendy, despite being a minotaur, became a successful baker down in Gnoll City. And Orissa, a siren, is a popular celebrity at the bard's guild up in East Bandelfall. What separates you from them is the fact you picked rather dangerous occupation to follow your dream, which is-"

"Becoming a mercenary, I get it. Still, seems like you're the only one who's not totally against my decision."

"Because I believe you have what it takes to make it out there on your own. Though, I will admit....I share in your mother's concern. For as much as she and I train you for what life may throw at you, we can't possibly prepare for everything it will throw at you."

"What...do you mean by that?", queried Kerry, trepidation creeping into her voice as she stopped walking, a concerned look on her face.

Her father stopped walking as well and sighed. He then turned to look at his daughter.

Kerry. The fourth born. His little stinger.

Setting his staff against a tree, he walked up to Kerry and put his hands on her shoulders, gazing at her with a serious visage.

"Listen up, Kerry.", he began, his tone loving yet stern. I'm sure by now you and your siblings have heard me regale you plenty of my war stories. As you got older, I've told you stories that were less glamorous and more....real. So I'm not lying when I tell you that I have seen some of the worst of what war brings out in people. When you start your life as a mercenary, you will come across it, at some point. I'm not saying this to scare you, only to prepare you. Fear. Hatred. Cruelty. Injustice. Every sort of bad evil you can think of. They all exist out there. Mainly around humans, but don't be shocked if you see mamono engage in it as well. It's just how the world is, sometimes. It will be harder for you especially because you're a mamono. Most humans will fear you, curse you, hate you or, if given the chance, will try to kill you. So, the best advice that I, your father, can give is this: Walk with a ready fist....while carrying a kind smile. Take in the sights as you go. Meet new people and learn new things.

"But most importantly, when you find the right people, make friends. Who knows? They may have been through the wringer just as much as you have...

"....if not more.", Kerry whispered to herself before sighing, smirking to herself.

Nearly 10 years since she left home and her dad is still taking her to school.

"Well, Eula, it's like you said: There is a shit ton of things to care of and the locals do need our help, no matter how much they bitch about. So let's bury this hatchet so we can get back to saving this island, yeah?"

[Enkryption]

---

ATTN:

---

There were three things you needed for a successful party:

1. Food.

2. Drink.

3. Atmosphere.

Now, Alice could easily handle the first two requirements with whatever she could find lying around. As long as she had water to boil and bread to serve, she could make a small tea party out of that. However, Terauchi Temple was in pain, in mourning; she'd suffered, and needed a proper party.

For that, Alice would have to break out the big guns.

Marching from end to end, then from corner to center, four times over, at the center, Alice would remove her hat, and set it on the ground.

"Ahem~"

Alice cracked her fingers, before squatting down, and touching the ground, "Let's see... mourning... celebration... A somber atmosphere, reserved and safe..." she says, eyes closed, "I understand. You take the safety of those within seriously, don't you, Terauchi? I'll bring their smiles back. I'll throw your party..."

Alice opened her eyes, glowing with a magic; wild, wonderful, and wicked, all the same.

"Invites, invites, o' send out the invites,
Promises of joviality and sublime delights,
Send them, send them, to the gutters and to the manors,
Tell them, Tell them, to the paperboy and to the planners,
Deliver them, whisper them, well into the nights!

So, so worrisome, these crying eyes,
So, so, troublesome, these broken ties,
A party, a party, I bring, I bring,
A party a party, I'll sing, I'll sing,
With treacle, tea and tarts, I'll try, I'll try!

A sober day has come to past,
A sober day with designs to last,
Away, away, I pray, I pray,
Away, away, today, today,
Away, away, this gloom, I cast!

And, so I say, I say...

Callooh... Callay... O' Frabjous Day..."

Alice closed her eyes... and, so it was.

Insidiously, yet explosively.

Subdued, yet overblown.

Soothing, yet invigorating.

Magic flowed from her hat, from her piece of Wonderland, and herself, and washed over the damaged village; from the ground, rubble rattled and prattled, jumping and bouncing, before finding itself, and making itself whole again. In waves, the magic washed over the village; repairing; restoring; rebirthing - from the smallest silverware to the largest building, from the earthen cookware to the wooden furniture, from the finest ring to the simplest sock.

In all things, a little joy returned and grew, until it was whole and hale.

As new as the day it was made.

Followed by cups and cups of treacle, tea, and tarts; to soothe the mourning, grieving bellies, minds, and hearts.

A far and wide party, yet it was all quiet and calm.

Standing, Alice returned her hat to her head.

"Now, then... let's party," she says, tears running down her cheeks, "Everyone's invited..." before she fell on her ass, and flopped onto her back, "I'll take my tea, now."

[Crowvette]

Io

[@Breakthroughfriends.]

Io kept quiet during the preparation and travel to Komatsu Bay - partially to preserve energy, partially because she was taking time to construct spells she might need for the attack.

After they arrived at the outskirts where Shizuka was settled, Io quickly got the gist of Ayu's plan from what she overheard. She returned Shizuka's glance of indifference as she entered. "It will work, so long as we can exploit a weakness." She thought over what Liliana said for a moment. It was somewhat interesting that Liliana formulated two plans that could be plausible. "Sneaking along with the barrels could work, though it would also be dangerous." She looked over at Shizuka's room, sizing up the containers he had ready. "Even I could fit in some of these containers, if it came to that. With the sake in it, if necessary to keep your cover. I do not need to breathe." Io's small frame was a boon in these kinds of situations.

She crossed her arms as she considered the other potential plan. "Poisoning the sake could work for a diversion, but it's likely they'd figure it out before it cuts their ranks too much. Unless the Varjans are less strict with their drinks than I assumed they are...?"

Io nearly smiled as she considered the various ways she could compromise drinks for the Varjans. 'Even hiding in the barrels would likely "taint" it as poison to them. If the way they treated the prisoners is an indication of their drive against us, at least...' Of course, there were far more effective spells that she would opt for first. Ideally ones that would leave the bodies ready for reanimation.

"If we were poisoning it, I could prepare a spell that could cause an outbreak of zombification from the sake, perhaps..." A somewhat sinister gleam crossed Io's eyes as she clearly settled into a dark train of thought - Despite her deadpan expression, it was clear the thought of raising a zombie infestation was something she was enjoying.

[Restalaan]

@PaulHaynek@AzureKnight@Crowvette@The Irish Tree

Skarsneek of the Redhill

He shrugged his shoulders at all the suggestions before going for the true and tried method.

"I suggest we just spike the drink the good old way with some drugs, and do the same for all their water source." Skarsneek pointed out before nodding his head left and right. "Sleeping ones, less obvious and more frustrating for their commanders.Maybe cut it in half and water half of it down perhaps? Make it so that more can join in."

"As to going inside the barrel, I won't suggest it. Too risky, competent soldiers would check all of them, and sake barrels aren't that hard to open either. Not unless one of you could fuddle them during the check." He pointed out before giving them a knowing look. "I tried that method before going in, not as fun as it sounds."

"But what I can do, is climb up those walls from another angle while they're inspecting Shizuka there." Skarsneek looked to the group and assess who he can carry. "I definitely can get liliana in with me, and maybe Io if she's strap to my back."

"Definitely harder for me to carry you, Shizuka." He pointed to the more regal of the two. "And honestly, you might just be able to sneak in the old fashion way. Same with Ayu, all you two need to do is pose as sake merchants."

"You'll have to figure out how to sneak those weapons in, I can carry backup weapons for you but I'll be at more of a risk when I climb those walls."

---

Gringor of the Ironhide Tribe

Gringor looked at the winding paths and rocky outface. It didn't look impossible to scale it but it wasn't going to be quiet.

Though perhaps, maybe they can use a more natural way?

"Spider lady can climb those rocks?" He asked Atsuha and pointed to the terrain. If done properly, they can scale it without much sound and from a completely unexpected angle.

It'll also allow them to actually locate the bois first before they proceed anyways.

"If Gringor up there, can pull you all of you up, Gringor strong." He saw a particular strong boulder that can be used as anchor at the very top, so he can hold and pull them.

"Or better idea?

[AzureKnight]

---

Breakthrough

---

Komatsu Bay: @PaulHaynek@The Irish Tree(Lili)@Crowvette@Restalaan(Skars)

---

In the few hours leading up to the operation, Shizuka opted to bathe, eat a little bit, and provide any relief assistance that was possible for the refugees and workers on the temple grounds. He was still a bit on edge, knowing that while they could stay here anymore, staging a relocation would have to be put on hold. Hopefully, after their defeat, Varjan forces wouldn't waste their resources staging another attack and would focus their efforts elsewhere.

--

Following the directions given by Ayu, Shizuka and the group trek on the Vermillion hued landscape until Komatsu was just within reach. Eyeing a peasant house, he along with the others heard Ayu arguing with someone. Upon entering, they would see the other person was a short and portly man - whose name just so happened to also be Shizuka...

This certainly won't create any confusion or unforeseen circumstances down the road... Kannazuki thought to himself.

They appeared to be arguing over the details of the operation, about which it was planned that the shorter Shizuka would smuggle them into the bay under the guise of delivering sake. Apparently, Ayu's confidant was a rather skilled swindler and smuggler. The others offered alternate means to infiltrate the bay, based on their respective skillsets.

"I don't mind spiking their drinks, but rather not to anything to poison the water supply here." He said. "If there are any innocents there, they'll be affect as well." He then turned to Io, with stern eyes. "I'd rather you not create a small army of undead, it doesn't paint a good picture." Shizuka said solemnly.

"Ultimately, Ayu-san has the final say with what plan we go with. I don't mind posing as a delivery man with Ayu-san or...Shizu-san." He then placed his hand on his sword. "Skars-san, you can carry my blade with you, if you plan on sneaking in on your own. Should be easier than carry another person on your back."

---

---

Second Chance

---

Fort Tanabe: @PaulHaynek@Restalaan(Grin)

---

Following Lady Kikyo, ignoring the dagger-like gazes she shot them on occasion, the party were led through the winding mountain paths and plateaus until eventually Tanabe Fort was within view. Atsuha recalled the information that Kikyo gave them prior, the fort was stationed on a high plateau with only one road that led in and out. The cliff were also indeed stiff. However, to a being like Atsuha, that meant very little.

"I don't think that'd be too difficult. My name is Atsuha, by the way, Gringor..." She responded, in somewhat of an exasperated tone. "If I can climb into the fort without being seen, I should be able to create an opening in which everyone else can enter."

She turned to Kikyo, gesturing on the sakura tree that grew on her back. "This plant I have on my person produces special petals that can induce drowsiness and delirium in people. With the guards incapacitated, I feel that should make it somewhat easier for you to enter and recuse the prisoners."

"Yep! Since my sister's a spider, she can climb on just about anything! Grin-san and I are pretty strong too, so um, maybewe could climb up too...?" Hinami said, beginning to scratch her head while pondering.

[PaulHaynek]

"I read that the warriors of Shizuyama follow a path of honor."

"It is one of the many differences between us."

"Hmm. Then why do my men report that Takeshi Oja fights alongside yokai?"

"My son will never resort to such a thing."

"War brings out who we truly are."

"It has made you a dog."
"Unleashed by The Order, to rape and pillage at their command."

"...Your son strays from your island's sacred traditions. He will become what you hate."
"Unless you rejoin The Order, and their fight to restore peace to the world."

"You don't want allies. You want soldiers, to die in place of your own."

"Consider my offer. Help your son regain his honor, before his cowardice goes too far."
"...And before I bring you his head."

---

---

Komatsu Bay Outskirts

BREAKTHROUGH

~ @AzureKnight (SHI), @The Irish Tree (LIL), @Crowvette, @Restalaan (SKA), @Nakushita ~

"Even I could fit in some of these containers, if it came to that. With the sake in it, if necessary to keep your cover. I do not need to breathe."

Io

"No need to hide in the barrels. My cart's fully covered, you can all fit in there with the sake." The merchant Shizuka said to Io.

"As to going inside the barrel, I won't suggest it. Too risky, competent soldiers would check all of them, and sake barrels aren't that hard to open either. Not unless one of you could fuddle them during the check. But what I can do, is climb up those walls from another angle while they're inspecting Shizuka there."

Skarsneek

"Don't worry, they won't search my cart." Shizuka then let out a devilish chuckle. "At least, not anymore."

"It's the same sake delivery I always sell them. They looove my sake!" The merchant then imitated the voice of a stereotypical Varjan. "Sake, good! Give sake now!"

"And the garrison is too big for an inspection to distract enough soldiers for an opening." Ayu added. "I won't stop you from trying to sneak in through another angle, Sir Skarsneek, but you might get spotted."

"Plus, I bet it'll work! If this Shizuka's as brave as our Shizuka, then his name isn't Shizukan't! ...Or...I guess that doesn't really work. Forget it. But pleaaaaase Mr. Shorter, more-fun-to-poke Shizuka? Won't you help us?"

Liliana

"Hey, hey! Stop that! Only my mother gets to do that." The short merchant shooed Liliana away from his pudgy cheeks. "What's she talking about anyway?"

"Shizuka is also the name of the swordsman." Ayu reluctantly revealed.

"Ohhh!" The merchant then approached the swordsman and patted the latter on the arm. "Nice to meet a fellow Shizuka. I have a feeling this is going to be a beautiful friendship." The azure swordsman could already see schemes forming behind the swindler's eyes.

"If we were poisoning it, I could prepare a spell that could cause an outbreak of zombification from the sake, perhaps..."

Io

"I don't mind spiking their drinks, but rather not to anything to poison the water supply here. If there are any innocents there, they'll be affect as well. I'd rather you not create a small army of undead, it doesn't paint a good picture."

Shizuka Kannazuki

"Yeah, there were a few people there who fought back." Shizuka remarked. "The ones left alive became prisoners... or slaves."

"What are you and they specifically supposed to do inside the fortress port anyway?" The merchant asked Ayu.

"The initial plan was to sneak inside and search for the garrison's commander and captains. Then we get rid of them, make a ruckus, and hope the Varjans get demoralized enough to leave on their own. Basically, a sudden, daring attack on their morale to break them." Ayu iterated the plan to everyone. "But as long as we get rid of the garrison, I can go with any plan the taskforce offers."

"But let's not waste any more time here. We can discuss the plan further as we move to Komatsu Bay." Ayu declared.

"Ah! Let's have a drink first!" The shorter Shizuka attempted to delay to try cancelling the plan. "Talk this through." He smiled sheepishly at Ayu and the taskforce.

But to no avail. "Now, Shizuka!"

-

The taskforce along with Shizuka and Ayu approached the merchant's cart: A surprisingly fancy cart with lanterns and gourd bottles strung on it and a single horse to pull it. Like what the shorter Shizuka said, all sides of the cart was covered with straw and was large enough to hold several barrels of sake. There were already two inside, and the rest of the space was for the taskforce.

"When we get close to the port, you all can hide in the cart with the sake." Merchant Shizuka said as he inspected his cart for a bit. "All set! You sure you wanna go through with this?"

"We can't hesitate now. Not with Terauchi Temple in danger." Ayu answered. "I'm with you, taskforce. Just say where I need to be."

---

Near Fort Tanabe

SECOND CHANCE

~ @AzureKnight (HIN & ATS), @Restalaan (GRI) ~

"Spider lady can climb those rocks?"

Gringor

"If I can climb into the fort without being seen, I should be able to create an opening in which everyone else can enter. This plant I have on my person produces special petals that can induce drowsiness and delirium in people. With the guards incapacitated, I feel that should make it somewhat easier for you to enter and recuse the prisoners."

Atsuha Hangai

"Yep! Since my sister's a spider, she can climb on just about anything! Grin-san and I are pretty strong too, so um, maybewe could climb up too...?"

Hinami Hangai

Kikyo closed her eyes for a moment before pulling several paper talismans on her and checking them one by one.

With a satisfied nod, she replied to the taskforce. "Good plan, yokai. We can definitely do that. But don't use your special petals because if it goes wrong, the prisoners are dead." She then continued, speaking to Atsuha. "Instead, try to free the prisoners and arm them. Then launch a signal and attack the Varjan garrison. Me and your fellow yokai will attack once we see the signal. That way, we'll crush the Varjans between us."

She then handed Atsuha a paper talisman. "This ofuda will launch a ball of light to the air. That'll be the signal."

"Any objections to my plan?" Kikyo then surveyed their surroundings again. "Damn it, where's Takeshi? Should we wait?"

---

Terauchi Temple

~ @Hammerman, @Enkryption, @The Irish Tree (EUL), @Rezod92 ~

Eula and Kerry would see magic from an unknown source repair the temple anew. Fires were put out, rubble rose to the air and reattached themselves to their buildings in an almost dance-like manner. Broken wooden beams were mended, the tiny splinters on the ground returning one by one to reform the wood. Refugees emerged from shelters and laborers stopped working to watch with awe and wonder as Terauchi Temple seemingly repaired itself.

Revuel had just finished lifting the last of the wreckage with telekinetic magic in his area to a suitable corner for salvage, only for the pile to float up and return to their original places in the buildings. The spellcaster was both glad that all was repaired anew and annoyed that his work was all for naught, leaving a neutral expression to his face.

"I'll take my tea, now."

Alice

Takeshi, too, was in awe at Alice's power. He whistled as the magic finished and approached the Mad Hatter lying flat on the ground. "Not bad. Is the jingle necessary?" He said before chuckling. A hand then extended from him for Alice to take. "You can't drink tea from there. Come on, time to enjoy the fruits of your labor."

The tea and tarts that seemingly appeared from thin air were approached cautiously by the refugee villagers. They looked enticing and scrumptious, but they didn't survive the Varjan invasion and made it to Terauchi Temple by being carefree. "Is... is this safe?" The villager closest to the tea party asked.

"Of course not." Sorae approached and looked at the tea and tarts with utmost disdain. "This is magic from Wonderland, one of the most terrifying ones out there. Partake, and you will be lost forever." The warrior woman warned the refugees.

Heeding the warning, some of the villagers began to back away.

---

---

---

~~ TAKESHI'S JOURNEY ~~

Breakthrough (ONGOING)

"Lady Kyouko needs a port to dock her fleet to properly engage the Varjan armada and deliver supplies, and that port will be Komatsu Bay. If we're going to liberate the fortress, we'll need help and Ayu says she has a friend for the job. We can join her and go to this friend's house, just outside Komatsu Bay."
-Takeshi Oja

Second Chance (ONGOING)

"We almost have everything we need to save my father. However, we cannot leave the refugees of Terauchi Temple defenseless. We need warriors to fortify and defend the temple while we are away. Kikyo knows of some imprisoned warriors who can help replenish our ranks."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TAKAMORI TALES ~~

Teacher And Student

"Lord Takamori said that his traitorous daughter, Setsuna, is training Varjan archers in Ōmiya. I know this frightens him, even if he tries to hide it. If we don't find her and end this, there may be no stopping the archers, and no hope for Ōmiya Springs. We need to see Lord Takamori immediately."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ SORAE TALES ~~

The Husband

"Lady Sorae told me that Kana, Sogen's wife, has disappeared during the attack on the temple. She wants help tracking her down as Kana is the only lead we have on the identities and whereabouts of the killers of Clan Tokinomiya."
-Takeshi Oja

~~ TALES OF SHIZUYAMA ~~

Whispers In The Woods

A villager woman remarked to the taskforce member as the latter passed by.

"You better watch out if you're passing Yabo Forest, yokai. It's haunted by angry spirits... Dead samurai, eager to spill blood."

"People go into the woods and never come out. Varjan and Shizuyaman alike! The bodies that turn up have all been killed by Shizuyaman blades..."

The Other Side Of Honor

A peasant man eating barbecued meat on a stick was startled when the taskforce member approached. It appeared he has news.

"Yokai! You have to tell Lord Takeshi, there is another samurai noble who survived Sanjo Beach. His name is Lord Tonchiki. He's in his abode southeast of here. If you go see him, I'm sure he would join your cause."

"Err, maybe not. I guess you'll need Lord Takeshi himself to convince him."

Shizuyama's Freedom

A villager sitting on some stone steps in the temple stood up when the taskforce member approached.

"Yokai, I've heard of a small resistance group gathering in the Imahama Area. I believe they're headed by that shrine priestess that started a fight here not too long ago."

"They're recruiting farmers and fishermen to their cause. Brave, but it'll be dangerous if they're not trained."

Bottoms Up

A peasant man warming his hands on a bonfire noticed the taskforce member passing by.

"Yokai, you must do something! It's Ayane's sake brewery in Imahama. That brewery is the pride of Shizuyama, but soon there will be none left. The Varjans are taking it by force."

~~ LEGENDARY TALES ~~

The Heavenly Strike

"Dealing with these students of the Heavenly Strike was more difficult than we thought. They have already thrown back two of the taskforce. However, the yokai fought them separately and at different times, so perhaps a more cooperative approach would be more fruitful."
-Takeshi Oja

[Enkryption]

---

ATTN: @PaulHaynek (Takeshi & Sorae)

---

Alice was pretty satisfied, as Takeshi approached, and offered her a hand to stand:

"Not bad. Is the jingle necessary?

You can't drink tea from there. Come on, time to enjoy the fruits of your labor."

Takeshi

"Don't hang around many spellcasters, do you? And, I can drink tea anywhere," Alice smirked, displaying that conviction that Takeshi remembered, as well as that soft-spoken poshness. She was different from her last appearance, but her vibe was the same.

"This is magic from Wonderland, one of the most terrifying ones out there. Partake, and you will be lost forever."

Sorae

...and, so was her temper.

"Humans, so unchanging, three-hundred-years of holding a sword to guide the lost, to defend the weak, and bring home and hearth to the desperate in need..." Alice says, standing up, before the softness evaporated from her voice, "Yet, there's still people like you, the vocal minority, that thinks they speak for the whole; the rabble-rouser, the troublemaker, the problem..."

Alice raised her arms, "LOOK AT YOUR VILLAGE! LOOK AT YOUR HOMES! LOOK AT THEM, AND ASK YOURSELF THIS..." she glared at Sorae, "How long would it have taken you?"

Carroll sighed, as she nibbled a tart, "And, she's on her soapbox..."

"Months? Years? Tell me, noisy woman, where's your hammer and nail, where's your measure and saw, where's your brick and mortar," Alice asks. "All I see from you is fear-mongering. Speaking lies as if they were truths. You know nothing about my home, about my people, about the Humans, like you, that live aside Mamono, like me, in the satellite villages, away from hatred and segregation," Alice crossed her arms, "Something you seem well-versed in, this blind racism toward, and segregation of, Human and Mamono, from what we were to what we are. Ignorant that this change might be one that some, like me, never asked to happen, but live with to the best of our ability..."

Alice shifted, "My ability... I have been hailed as a ruling Queen of Humans, a guiding Monarch of Mamono, and binding, as I was once as Human as those that wore my banner, just as I am as Mamono as those that fell under that banner to be free..." Alice cleared her throat, voice softening, "I have seen more dreams fall to your hatred than minutes you've been alive. I have seen more live tore asunder by your segregation than slices of bread you've held," she steeled her gaze, "You speak of becoming lost, yet your words only drag other down the same evil path as you."

"Tell me! As me, what evils have I aspired to enact upon you, what tricks have I chosen to play upon, what cruelty did I desire when casting my spell," Alice asks, motioning around, "Hate me, if you like. It will not change the reason I threw this party," she pointed to the villagers, "I threw it for them. The people that are grieving, mourning, in need of treacle, tarts, tea, and, most importantly, cheer - not fear."

Alice huffed, and turned her back. "So, do what you will, say what you want, but don't make decisions for them," she says, "As long as I am here, I will fly my banner above this village, and defend it as if she were my kingdom. As the Queen of Diamonds, this is my promise," Alice looked back, "And, yes. That includes you and those you bring into your hatred. I will make sure there is always tea in your cups, tarts on your tables, and a sword in the gut of those that threaten you."

"Stand by me, if you like," Alice says, walking away, "or, don't. I won't make decisions for you."

Hands in her pocket, Alice would head off for the area where she was sensing warm water.

"Well, then..." Carroll sighed, munching her eighth unfinished tart, "That's "first impressions" out of the way... I didn't want to be talk of the town so soon," she grumbled, as she set the half-eaten pastry on the table beside her; it had been eaten to the center, dried of all filling, and left as a dry C.