Sho Minazuki

Silver Gate Academy [Accepting New Players]

Kyoto

Saturday, June 4th 20XX

---

Undisclosed Location

"Lady Seirin, your dinner...", the dimly lit traditionally styled room had barely anyone within it, like a cage the walls formed closely around the two girls who sat here. This was a hidden room within one of Kyoto's castles, a lesser known location normally used for tea ceremonies, but over time had seen no use, and became a safe house for various important members of the Imperial family. On a tray between the kneeling girl and the girl seated with her back turned, was a meal of fish, rice, miso soup, seaweed, pickled vegetables, and tempura.

The girl who was seated, Seirin, was inspecting her arm... An earlier scuffle had injured it, and it appeared she was reflecting on those events. It was gone, whatever injury she had sustained was wiped clean, regenerated completely. 'Almost as if nothing happened', she mouthed quietly. There was a certain sadness to it, which was strange for a wound, but her mind kept wandering to the short time she spent with those strange people. Proof of that event, she began to think... And then she remembered, from her sleeve she produced a ribbon. Yes, it was from that girl Lorelai was it? Should she return this at some point? Well, as it is, she could not wear it, for she was required to be in traditional garb.

"Fuuko... I'm sorry, I'm unable to concentrate. It may be a bit until I decide to eat", the young kneeling lady bowed her head in acknowledgement. There was a silence for awhile before she began to turn, taking up the chopsticks and began to eat meagerly, timidly. Her eating stopped as there was a noise from outside.

"I will investigate. Stay right here", the kneeling girl Fuuko immediately departed to check on the noise. It was of concern. Only other members of the Yatagarasu or Imperial family could know where this was. It was of hope that it would simply be Yatagarasu ninja informing them, but the noise was not necessary.

So simple it would be if it was just an informant.

---

Kyoto Outskirts -- Previous Night

The masked girl leant against a large tree, hidden from view of normal approaching people. Between her mask and red and white garb, she would stand out among the greenery of Kyoto's forests, even at night, and so keeping herself concealed with the surrounding was better. Her stance though it appeared relaxed, was alert, every muscle in her body was ready for the slightest wrong approach, and such and approach did come. With a flash of steel she drew her blade only to meet the glowing finger of a young man, hair slicked back and red eyes. He almost appeared out of nowhere, only denoted by a soft breeze as he made himself known.

"Such sharp senses, truly you have been working hard haven't you? Stumbling over yourself to prove your worth to us", as she identified the man, she put her blade away as he lowered his arm.

"Shinzou... Have you come here to laugh at my failure? I doubt you're here to dispose of me. I'd be dead already if you were",

"Smarter than you seem, so it seems, indeed no. Our leader has decided to bestow you a new task", he flicked his fingers as he pulled out from underneath his yukata from his breast, a black-ish stone, it appeared to glow, yet projected no light, like the shadow of a sun.

"Take this, find the girl, and plunge it into her chest", he held her hand, before placing it in her palm. She looked at it silently... The pressure of being trusted with this weighed greatly upon her. She had worked with them long enough to know they would not lightly trust her with this.

"And... This will let me see... Him, again...?", Shinso tilted his head a bit, then rubbed his chin... Yes he was told about this wasn't he? Her reason.

"Hmhm, yes indeed. Like you had been told before, the fire of Amaterasu is one of life, and Tamamo no Mae who once possessed her light, has the power to grant that. The reward for your service will be to see your loved one once more", interesting he thought to himself, but also... How mean, he thought to himself. He had no doubt Tamamo could perhaps achieve such a feat, if the legends were believed among the yokai, who talk of her great power... But would a fragment and a vessel be enough? This may be interesting.

"Alright... I'll do it. I... May have some idea where she is...", she clutched the stone in her hand tightly, with two hands, almost praying.

"Hm, how diligent. In that case, we shall entrust you with that".

---

Silver Gate Academy [Accepting New Players]

Kyoto

Friday, June 3rd 20XX

---

Otis

@ERode

Hider

"Hm, so you are worried for a friend then. I'm afraid while I cannot do anything about that, I was informed there were students in that city...", he didn't seem thrilled about that. All things considered, Kyoto was in a sensitive situation with a kind of threat, so more things to worry about were not welcome.

"Rest assured they are very well taken care of, Eiseikato is a very safe place. I am sure someone like a teacher is a liaison for the city during their stay, if you wish to ask them anything, it may be better to direct questions to them", the crow-masked ninja conversed as he led the boy out of the convention center, as they ended up outside of in an open expanse of concrete, where one would assume people would line up or mingle before halls opened.

"Please, make your way back to the front gate from here", it was a clear straight shot, so this should be a rather clear instruction. Though as Otis carried it out, there was a sudden distinct peak in a sense of danger. Within moments Otis found himself doubling back as the Yatagarasu ninja jumped in front and blocked an attack of some kind, which soon became clear to be an arrow as it bounced and landed beside him.

Otis peeked out from behind the man to see the attacker, a boy, only appearing a little older than Otis himself, with white hair and red eyes, slicked back wearing traditional Japanese attire looking straight out of a period drama aside from his facial features.

"You forgot the other one", there was a brief look of shock as the ninja-man suddenly doubled around Otis, taking what appeared to be a second arrow that made a pincer movement. It looked as if the arrow materialized out of nowhere, but with how it flew, that did not appear to be the case... The way it fazed into existence made it appear as if it was stealthed.

"Hm, not a clean hit, I had hoped to use that boy as an opportunity, but you have such great command of your body Mr. Yatagarasu, but with an injury, even I may stand a chance. Shall I let this opportunity pass, or... Wait?", their attacker seemed to have them in the palm of his hands, or so it seemed.

"Shinzou... High ranking member of the Yokai group Sennen-No-Matsuri, despite only being half, you command great respect with the group", it was an introduction, but it seems with the way this boy plays it could also be a ploy to shake his resolve just a little with how well-informed he was, but that did not appear to work.

"Ah, it appears you are familiar, as expected. Ninja are very resourceful, perhaps I should recruit my own group of yokai ninja then", the boy imitated what appeared to be the stance for archer, with one finger pointed forward. The sound of whistling wind followed by a forceful gust around him was then topped off with a flash of steel as another arrow was launched. The wind though, appeared to stop as the arrow was visible mid-flight, did Otis' eyes deceive him, or was that arrow slowing down? His astute senses might also notice his crow ninja temporary friend was not behind him anymore, in fact he was gone. Before he could think of asking where he went, he reappeared in front, following a deluge of blades as the one arrow suddenly became three, six, and so on, until it appeared as if he had cut up a rain of arrows.

"I suppose that's why you're guarding this entrance. Of course, none of you would want us to get more potential recruits", he lowered his stance, and eyes turned to Otis.

"But you are not a yokai, I had thought so at first, but your presence is very different... Closer to an owl, than a person even. I had heard of a strange land once, like another world... Were they true...?", he seemed to ponder for a moment, he began to raise his stance again and the ninja began to enter a stance too, but he was stopped as a shadowy figure appeared beside him, whispering a little.

"I see, well, it appears this may not be necessary this time. I am needed elsewhere so it seems, count yourselves lucky my friends", he bowed, and with the black cloak of his mysterious companion, was whisked away. Just so, the arrows around them that were fired from the boy disappeared in shining spiritual dust. The silence of their departure was broken as the masked ninja pulled an arrow out of his shoulder, the one he had taken.

"I must... Inform everyone, you, go, somewhere safe. Please try not to get yourself involved in any of this", he may have questions, such as who was Shinzou, but it didn't look like they could be answered as the man had quickly left, likely to inform his comrades on the events that had just transpired.

Lorelai

@Lonewolf685

Hider

"Oooh that sounds like fun, maybe I'll ask about that or somethin', but hmmmmm... Well, maybe it's fine so long as things are way they are now, everyone's kinda just positionin' for something and I can barely get any info right now so yeah let's hang for a bit", she seemed to agree to the prospect of sticking and hanging out with Lorelai. How long would this last? Who knew.

"So whatchu' wanna do? Based on the movements I saw it'll be maybe two days before I should bail and stay hidden", she seemed rather upbeat about saying something like that, but it seems she'll stick around for awhile. She sat back sitting almost like on the air with her arms behind her head.

"Oh hey, you got good legs, maybe I could show ya somethin', or, we could go get some food, I know some places around here but kinda hard gettin' in and orderin' alone with how fussy everything is right now", just some suggestions so it seemed.

Ultana

@I-Am-X

Hider

Ultana's hunt for ramen landed her in a side hole-in-the-wall store with a house sat on top of it on a slanted street, surrounded by only houses and no other store, only one sign out front and a faded sign on top as a tell-tale that this was indeed, a ramen establishment, and yet... It was absolutely delicious.

On her way here though she spotted Asta again and the two ended up here eating like it was suddenly a ritual as friends. It appeared she was looking for ramen too, hot food seemed to be something she appreciated.

"I wonder if I can learn to brew this for my folks at home. A hot hearty dish like this ought to get their spirits up every now and then", she mused between bites. The store itself was empty except for one salaryman sat far back and eating as well.

"How strange that we had chanced to meet in this town, perhaps it was the rumors about this store being the best", perhaps it was, or did Ultana get here through sheer dumb luck? At the very least, Asta seemed to be here from her own research.

Koyuki

@Amaterasu

Hider

Koyuki was to leave them there for Kuzunoha to sample, or, so she would assume, but as she peered from the hallway she watched as a few tiny foxes appeared around it and began sniffing and inspecting the dango with various results, it was almost adorable as they acted like foxes, but by the end of it they had eaten all of these illusory dango, and the hallway was cleared. It was unclear for a moment whether or not she passed, but... She could at least assume that the small chibi foxes and their delighted expression could be indication of such.

"I can still see you peering from the corridor", the voice came from behind and as she turned she saw a small fox sprite floating in front of her.

"I would like you to return here tomorrow immediately after your shift. Please, try not to be late", and with that... It was gone again.

Silver Gate Academy [Accepting New Players]

Kyoto

Friday, June 3rd 20XX

---

Otis

@ERode

Hider

After listening to Otis' response, he felt the blade be pulled away slowly, before he was allowed to turn to see who this person was. He wore a mask, but those sharp eyes were a distinguishing feature despite this. The blade that was used to hold Otis up had already disappeared, seeing that it was actually attached to his arm, but there was no tool or piece of gear there, suggesting it was either an ability, or magic of some kind.

"Hm, so you're one of them", he began, hopefully referring to the students and not something more controversial.

"I would immediately send you away, but if I don't answer your question you'll more than likely come back... Very well, I'll tell you about your classmates at least", he folded his arms, looking distinctly ninja as he did.

"They are in a powerful yokai's realm, one who is allied and in coexistence with today's society. This place is called Eiseikato. Unfortunately I cannot allow you to enter it, in general any human or non-yokai presence must be of great exception. You see, their desire is to find a way to live in today's society without disturbing anyone, and so as part of a deal, we on this side try to preserve that as best we can. I hope you'll understand why you can't go snooping around for them. Do not worry however, they will be returned to your class before the conclusion of your stay here", was this a satisfactory answer? It was as such, the only thing he was willing to answer. His own identity, he clearly wished to keep hidden beyond being a member of the Yatagarasu, as well as why he was here, which he also wished to keep confidential.

"Now, I must see you out of this facility, you cannot stay here", if Otis was satisfied, he would begin to be led back towards the entrance of this convention centre.

Lorelai

@Lonewolf685

Hider

The lackadaisical Tengu leaned back into seemingly air itself, before crossing her legs, sitting on one leg. She seemed to ponder a bit, the idea of being able to explore without watching her back seemed appealing to her, but on the other hand the other bit went against her duty...

"Well, I like that idea, yanno? We can hang out a bit like that, but unfortunately my only job here is ta observe. There's been no call for assistance from us, I'm jus' a scout", she replied.

"What'd you say yer school was? If ya have or not, I dunno. You don't soun' like havin' a yokai in a class is unusual", it seems the suggestion also piqued her curiosity. It appeared Silver Gate was not exactly a very famous name among yokai communities. They were also even only in passing in magical communities.

Koyuki

@Amaterasu

Hider

The work day for Koyuki went by somewhat slowly, though she was not in the kitchens, every time she passed by there was always a little something in regards to the supply, and she noticed that some of the dishes she was delivering were rationed just a little less. After her work day was over though she was allowed back into town to do whatever she wished, though before she had managed to do anything beyond changing or cleaning herself up, she was visited by a familiar fox sprite.

"I hope you've been in practice, perhaps now is a good time to think about making something of your illusions", it began. The little spirit flitted about around Koyuki before settling in front of her.

"I make sure all of our kind know this. Our illusions are supreme, no illusionist magic practitioner can come close to what we can do. As such, your next lesson is to practice something more substantial. Bring to life an illusion, it can be of whatever you want. When you can manage that much, send that illusion to the front of my door, then we can really begin. Don't worry about whether or not I'll see it. I'll know", and with that, the little illusory fox fairy was gone with just a blink.

Fenixtear - A Fairy Tail RP

Reynard Faust | On the Road

"Scholarly Assistance"
@Spectral@Landaus Five-One

---

As it stands he's treating this all more like another part of a job. He's had to do small jobs for people as a helping hand once in awhile, nothing mage-related, usually something that required extra hands, or he just happened to be around to solve the issue before it exacerbated. Of course he's also had his fair share of seeing mages swooping in to solve large issues, at the time he never imagined himself to be doing that again. He didn't feel safe being part of a mage guild, and frankly he still doesn't... At the very least he felt safer with this one than others, due to their Devil Slayers.

He also agreed that they take a break, if anything it was a good chance to reflect on the job ahead. As he began eating into his meal he considered what might be the main problem, and that would be what the ruins have in store... Or so he thought. His body tensed up a bit as he began to notice the signs of scurrying, and then soon followed squeaks and chirps. It seems Jessica has noticed them too. His time on the road has made him become astute to the presences of others, and these ones felt somewhat small. If this was a threat it would be best to stay on alert, but give no indication they were noticed.

"Just stay alert. When they reveal themselves, be ready", he whispered back, only shifting his body a little bit to help get his words across better to the others. He moved posture a little and a hand to rest closer to his blade, but not obvious.

Silver Gate Academy [Accepting New Players]

Kyoto

Friday, June 3rd 20XX

---

Otis

@ERode

Hider

Otis' careful perusal of the Kyoto International Conference Center at first did not seem to yield the desired results, overall the locale was quiet, perhaps too quiet? Or was this simply the norm? He would never know if that was true or not. His attempts to slip through the barriers of the public venue though was not opposed, the defenses or somesuch were as one would expect from any public venue. There was nothing unusual at this place, or so it seemed. Some of these talismans he's learned may reveal something to him but for now he relied on his senses.

Though as he walked through the areas beyond he would soon feel a breeze of some kind, before he felt a cold sharp blade rest against his throat. The presence was barely detected, denoted only by the earlier breeze. This wasn't abnormal as he was still outdoors of the facility, but that he was surrounded by walls in a corner of the buildings on the outside... A breeze was not likely to be felt, at least naturally. An older male voice spoke to him as they had appeared behind him.

"Who are you? Depending on your answer, I may have to dispose of you", he called. It didn't seem like he was joking, but what did it mean, if Otis was not simply killed for trespassing? Still, he might have to answer carefully.

Lorelai

@Lonewolf685

Hider

Sakichi simply laughed off the response, she didn't at all seem like a threat, but perhaps by her comments there were just a lot of high-strung exorcists out there. She got comfortable as Lorelai came up to eye height with herself, though the feat did not seem unexpected to her. She changed her

"Oooh! Well that'd save me a bit of trouble, see I got so distracted comin' out here I lost track 'o her, and now all the Yatagarasu got her locked up ta make sure nothin' happens to her. All I know is where the Yatagarasu are watchin' is all, no idea where she is or what's goin'... Man was hopin' ta get a chance ta see the young lady, ya know? Ah well, anyway for the dango earlier I'll tell you a little somethin', there's a group'a Yokai that ain't fond of the status quo, shakin' things up. I reckon that's why King Sojobo is interested in keepin' an eye on things here. Heard the leader's a half too, real interestin' stuff, but hey if anyone asks a little bird told ya", Sakichi seemed to like talking a lot, which suited Lorelai.

"Anyway that stuff aside, ya got good legs on ya, not even some of the exorcists I've seen 'round yer age can do somethin' like that so easily".

Aurelius

@Taka

Hider

Akimoto wasn't the most diligent person around, many of his acquaintances can tell you that much, in fact he wasn't wholly invested in training young Aurelius here, or at least at first. The earnestness in his pursuit of the sword was somewhat nostalgic, maybe he was getting old? He's barely in his 20s he would remind himself. He isn't old yet. Once in awhile he'd yell an order or point out a flaw in his form, and this was kept up until Aurelius collapsed, which admittedly, was quite awhile. He had the time to ask Lady to buy them some food while they trained.

After some time, the two sparred at Akimoto's behest, to see his progress. Personally, the form was clearer in his movements, but his body was still getting used to it. It seemed he was able to begin following Akimoto's movements too, so there was some progress in simply understanding the style. Following speed and movement had less to do with skill, and more perception or understanding of the opponent. The fact that their speed and skill remained leagues apart yet he was able to follow some of the movements told him he was actually learning properly.

As Aurelius collapsed to the floor before pulling himself up, Akimoto replied to his overeager desire for more guidance for the day,

"That's enough for today, rest up and practice what you learned today and we'll reconvene tomorrow. No use working your body to death. This is training not a death march", he reprimanded. It seems he would be free for the rest of the day for whatever he wished, as it appeared Akimoto would hear none of it.

Koyuki

@Amaterasu

Hider

"Well, we already do trade with the outside world, but lately things have been difficult. Lady Kuzunoha did inform us that things may be difficult during our stay in Kyoto but management was unable to predict that things would be this dire. It is hard for Yokai to wander around Kyoto at this time after all", she responded. She huffed and sighed for a bit, still, they needed to get some supplies somehow. In any case, perhaps the best she could do was report it and see if they can figure something out.

"Ah, don't fret, we still have enough supplies for a few more days or more, but we would always simply prefer to be almost a month ahead in terms of securing supply", it was rather nerve-wracking having to work on limited supply. Basically it seemed their supply after maybe 4 or 5 days was unclear, but likely to be short on many things.

For the time being it seemed the best option was to head back and inform the management of how things are looking.

"Well, worst comes to worst, we may have to mix illusions in with the food... It'll feel like the real thing, it just may not nourish our guests", she sighed.

"Hmmm, but your illusions are still unrefined, as you are here to train then this may be a good opportunity to practice... Well, that's if it comes to that", which she seems sure it would. Well for now, they would be heading back.

"Once we're back you can take your lunch break and visit town again, but be sure to come back before that ends for the afternoon shift ok?"

Ultana

@I-Am-X

Hider

Ultana's hunt for food through Kyoto proved to be... Difficult, not for lack of food, but the abundance of it. From some of the other Japanese students who were at the Inn, she heard that each region had their own style of ramen, which was the delicious noodle and broth dish she had had in Seidoujima. To think, there was another type out here and in other parts of Japan seemed to be an attractive opportunity to try new things.

That is of course, if she could stomach it after the wide selection of festival foods they like to sell around this month. Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, candied applies, and yakisoba to name a few. That was not to mention just regular restaurants either. Still, she had a few choices of where to go. She had been given advice to find small stores for ramen, and so she could head down some of the less-travelled roads, or check out the varieties of traditional Japanese food they sold at larger stores. Both were ripe opportunities for a meal far as she was concerned, but there was only one of her and therefore, only one route she can take.

Silver Gate Academy [Accepting New Players]

Kyoto

Friday, June 3rd 20XX

---

Otis

@ERode

Hider

"Ah, yes I do in fact", it was an almost surreal image seeing a man steeped in such traditional attire produce a phone from his garb, before exchanging the QR friend code function with Otis, and then saying thanks to one another. His servants seemed used to it though... Not his first time or was he just always a little strange? Regardless, he bowed himself out, and waved goodbye to Otis as he was left with a servant or two to help him find what he needed.

Unlike some other archives, this one seemed to be mainly for the household and it's students, students all the same. Based on a conversation before between Ultana and Utsumi, there was certainly a much larger library as well, but everything within this little store room was intended specifically for techniques.

As for things related to the spirit world he was thinking of, there were certainly some talismans within that created the effect he had witnessed before. It had various names, but from what was understood it was a boundary or field that moved things into the spiritual realm... It wasn't clear... But somehow the terminology seemed familiar, perhaps it was related to another school of magic? Regardless, from within he also found the Tsuchimikado family's onmyoudo, which seemed rather potent. He can make use of it should he please.

When his business was concluded, he could go wherever he pleased within the city, within reason. It appeared likely that the other classmates would be scattered to their own business, so it all came to a matter of who he was looking for, or where there might be some classmates present.

As he was leaving he got a notification on LINE.

It was a picture of Motsumine and his white fluffy cat. "Allow me to introduce you to Kaki-chan"

Lorelai

@Lonewolf685

Hider

"Hm? No it seemed funny at the time, still is", she replied, while taking a bite from one of the dango sticks, the dexterity of her hands as she twirled them between her fingers. She didn't seem at all inclined to move from her position, but her nonchalant reason for stealing a passersby's food was infuriatingly trivial.

"So yer not one of them Fujiwaras or whatever other families hang 'round here? Great, means I can stay a bit longer, love this city yanno?", by now she had finished eating all of them.

"With so many yokai runnin' round this place I figured it'd be a good time to take a peek as those paper-pushers would be busy with the others, no time for a tengu they could spend days chasin' to no avail, plus King Sojobo asked me ta have a look-see at what all the fuss was about", she bent down to sit on one leg, the other pulled over her knee as she rested her head on her arm.

"Anyway, real rare seein' a human who wasn't out here to erase me at the slightest slight, maybe we'll get ta know each other or somethin'. Hey what do girls talk about these days, I'm one too yanno, you got a guy you like? We'll gossip about that", she had a playful almost cheeky smile, but despite her abrasive and thieving habits she didn't seem intent to harm anyone...

"Ah right 'fore that, name's Sakichi, you can just call me Saki or somethin' though I don't mind".

Phoenix Wing: New Dawn

Belius | Phoenix Wing Guild Hall

Interacting: Jane@Zarkun

---

Belius had made himself comfortable in the guild hall as people settled into lively conversations like they always did. Ordinarily he would be rather excitable about all the people present, yet there was a strange sense of disconnection he hadn't felt here until some of the veterans had returned, and it was then he realized, there was very little history between them all. A somber thought, an unusual sight, as he took to some drink and food while he relaxed at a table.

He was soon joined by Jane Addeson, she was a B class mage something he would note in his head second before her choice of magic, energy blades. He felt some sort of irrational unconditional camaraderie with just about anyone who used swords, Jane was included in this. He gave thought to her question, naturally... He was interested in Damian's style, also involving swords, he can learn a lot from watching it, but the other two were Nolan and his Ashen God Slayer magic, which was incredibly unusual as far as slayers went, and Roseletta's Darkness which was versatile to rather formidable extent. The other of course was Penny with her Phoenix Slayer magic and fire magic, but in the middle of it all both were practically indistinguishable, aside from the phoenix aspect it was not unusual to him.

"Now that you mention it, I haven't seen Nolan or Rose in a full fight before", as much as he's challenged Nolan and Rose he was met with refusal even after a whole day of nagging, and then there's Penny who at this point appeared like the guild's face, someone whom he had also challenged at some point and though despite a convincing resistance he still lost. He got up to Jane's invitation as they began to walk, joining the crowd.

"You reckon we can bet on the winners? I wouldn't mind making a little extra alongside a good show", he inquired. There was nothing of the sort mentioned at all, but he wondered if someone in the hall was taking bets or something.

Fenixtear - A Fairy Tail RP

Reynard Faust | Museum

"Scholarly Assistance"
@Spectral@Landaus Five-One

---

The conversation progressed towards the talk of supplies, which Carver had forgot to mention, but it appears he had thought about it in advance already. REMs and canned food and such, which made sense. On an expedition with only yourselves and a bag, there was no luxury when it came to sustenance. On the road, Reynard had consisted on worse before, so the idea of rations like this were not bad to him. Thanks to his childhood he still had a palate that required something better prepared, but the years since had changed this about him.

"No, I'm not so picky. If food and supplies are already provided, then I am ready to go", his stance changed from crossed arms holding his katana, to at ease as his arms came to his sides, his furrowed brow softening a little as he opened his eyes after contemplation.

"Very well, lead the way Carver", he was ready to follow on as soon as they left.

Silver Gate Academy [Accepting New Players]

Kyoto

Friday, June 3rd 20XX

---

Ultana

@I-Am-X

Hider

Poring over hard to read texts proved to be a rather taxing experience, furthermore a small floating shikigami was now permanently floating around her. Monitoring? Or something else...? When asked, it revealed that it would be her assistant. Thanks to it, Ultana was now able to make some sort of headway in her research... So let's see.

The texts on different exorcists were interesting, but their arts not nearly as much. A lot of it were similar to things she'd already learned. Was it really just down to writing onto talismans and chanting? Afraid so.

In particular though, Abe no Seimei... She learned that he was a half-yokai exorcist, a kitsune mother and a human father. His exploits as an exorcist were great, wrought with rivalries and foes, but it appeared he was very much a positive figure. As she went text after text, she eventually reached a shred of paper hidden among one of the dusty old books.

As soon as she touched it, it revealed itself to be a talisman, which activated upon touch. The shikigami beside her began to disipate, before a scroll appeared in her hand, but just as easily as it appeared, it suddenly disappeared when she heard a voice reach out to her, and pretty soon... She blacked out.

-----------

"Well well, isn't this a surprise, for one so young to find my hidden arts... I had made those talismans to only appear to those with a potential necessary, I could not have imagined it would reach the hands of one not even of this world. Perhaps that is fitting",

The image of a handsome dark haired man with a long black cap and flowing white robes appeared before her in a pit of darkness.

"But I'm afraid this is only part 1. When you awake from this transient dream, you shall have written the manual yourself. To find the others... Well, I'm sure my old books have ended up in some old exorcist's library somewhere. Hmhm, well then, I look forward to your progress, should you pursue this path"

Otis

@ERode

Hider

"My my, quite the curious one are you not? Far be it for me to refuse such curiosity", he had listened intently over the barrage of questions with the fan open, closing his eyes after a moment, before snapping his fan closed again.

"Come, we shall walk through the estate", he motioned, and hopefully Otis would not refuse the offer to walk around his estate's gardens.

The Fujiwara estate was rather large, perhaps the size of two football fields. This was an estate set up in the forests around Kyoto too, and it was clear it had it's own storied history to it's construction too. The gardens of the Fujiwara estate were full of old trees, flowers, and the trained alchemist may spot some herbs too, perhaps even recognize that a lot of these flowers were used in certain mixtures and recipes. Truly, this was not simply an expensive estate, quite utilitarian for what appeared to be a pretty house.

"The Kyoto Alliance of Occultism is perhaps better seen as the mediator, rather than the exterminator. It was founded on the principle of harmony, as yokai are natural to this world as well, to eradicate them can have disastrous consequences, though, that in itself is another topic entirely. The spirit world itself is not another world in the same way as Arcanis, but rather the society created by yokai. Yokai that have become powerful however, are capable of creating their own separate 'realms' that mirror our own, or perhaps can be of their own creation entirely. Hm, hopefully that is something you may never need to experience, it can be quite harrowing even for the most experienced exorcist", they moved on as they went over a bridge, set under a tree.

"There are indeed other organizations of our nature, while the Kyoto Alliance is primarily controlled by the families in this region, other organizations work with us too. In Tokyo there is the Japan-Euro Christian Exorcists Organization, the Ainu Spiritualism and Tribalism Group that lives in the far north, and the Okinawan Exorcist Alliance in the south. The JECEO have connections with European groups, while the ASTG are more isolationist, only working with us should it be necessary. The OEA however have been rather cooperative, almost like a sister organization, as some of the families originally from Kyoto have moved southward", he explained. Throughout the whole conversation thus far he has managed to maintain a long thin smile, the same that he had had when Otis first saw him when he conversed with Kuuto.

"Leading into that, I did mention European groups, which do indeed exist. Every world government employs at least one of these, it can be said that the FBI and CIA have exorcists among their ranks in the USA, while the Vatican has it's own private and strict sect that encompass all of Europe, with smaller groups working in cooperation with them", the setting had moved towards some of the gardens just outside the dojo area, where some of the younger recruits of the Fujiwaras were training.

"The Kaganomiyas hm? I am surprised one such as you is aware of them. Though their members are kept secret, their name and presence is important. The role they fulfil may appear difficult to understand, but hmmmm. Perhaps, their approval of us gives us more authority. I predict that even with the influence of the Fujiwara, without a representative of authority, all the families of the Kyoto Alliance may begin to fracture, and eventually break apart. This finely crafted order and society we have made will crumble as a result", the purpose of the Kaganomiyas seemed to be more passive than active, so it appeared...

"And of course...", he stopped at a rather small building, Otis could see into it, a lot of scrolls were kept here.

"Well, the best talisman-writers in Kyoto, that would have to be the Tsuchimikado Clan. I'm afraid it would be quite difficult to help you get in touch with them, as they no longer live in Kyoto, but we do have in store some of their arts. Members of the Tsuchimikado were once part of many large clans in the past, perhaps this alone has made them among the best in writing charms and talismans", he directed Otis' attention to this dusty storeroom-like mini-library.

"Please, show the young man to them. He is one of Kuuto's students, here to learn. Do not be reluctant to show him what we have stored away", he ordered.

"Now... I do believe my free time is over, before I depart, perhaps you can tell me your name?", he inquired. His long smile accompanied by eyes that seemed sharp themselves.

Lorelai

@Lonewolf685

Hider

As Lorelai happily walked along the river, perhaps unknown to her as she was following what might be a trail, but the bustle of the crowd began to really thin. Perhaps not out of the ordinary as she was heading away from the central areas, but it went a bit further than that. As she walked along she began to wonder why she was here, though... The feeling was a bit weak, she almost wanted to turn back, but as soon as she decided not to, she moved her hand around to eat yet another dango, she bit nothing but air. The one she was about to eat was... Gone? She noticed the same feathers again. She still had her others, but as soon as she tried to bite them, a black shadow swept over her for an instant, and they were gone.

Immediately, she would hear some jolly laughter from a female voice.

"Ahahahahaha! If only ya could see yer face! Well, ya did make it pas' the barrier anyhow", Lorelai looked around, but as soon as her eyes went up, standing on one of the houses was a female.

She had a traditional Japanese kosode and hakama with greaves and gauntlets keeping her silhouette thin at the limbs. She had a red mask with a long nose, a Tengu mask, and some black wings. Her hair was short, black, but cleanly cut in a sharp outward shape. Her eyes were sharp, dark, but there was a playful grin to it. In one hand she had Lorelai's dango, and proceeded to take a bite out of one of them.

"Ya really got good taste goin' to that store ya know, so you a whatsit-corsit of somethin'? Otherwise I dunno how you'd be unaffected. Hey look, if yer tellin' me to scram or somethin' I will, just prolly not right now yanno?", she had a pretty heavy slang to her accent, but she was mostly understood.

Koyuki

@Amaterasu

Hider

The duties of the day were pretty straightforward, meeting with clients who supplied the inn with everything for food, washing, tools, repairs, and so on. The streets of Eiseikato were truly something of their own, she was also told that any pictures she took wouldn't actually be viewable outside of here, a kind of interference from Lady Kuzunoha. Which was a shame, but if she wanted any views to be preserved, she should probably see one of the artists that lived here. It appears that physically drawn art would be preserved going from here to the outside world.

The lights of Eiseikato made it appear as if it was in a constant festival, the abundance of traditional garbs mixed with strange shapes and yokai had a truly mystical feeling to it, the festival food sold almost around the clock, the different and varying architectures, the mix of perfectly immaculate streets, to some jaunted and jagged layouts made every corner a small treat of their own. Every tiny street had something too, not just doors to homes or deserted corridors, many held tiny almost hidden restaurants and cafes, or bars among other things, every street they walked down offered something, and the souvenirs on offer were quite interesting, usually depicting yokai. Down a certain street she even saw figurines in the image of Lady Kuzunoha.

This so far was quite the day out, although for Kohane it was a bit more serious. From some of the conversations, it appeared that due to events outside, getting supplies this week might be tricky...

"Hmmmm. If we limit the amount of guests each day... No, not every guest consumes the same amount... And rationing to sacrifice quality may be rather difficult...", Kohane had in her hand a notebook as she scanned it trying to figure out how she might report this to the manager.

"Of course this isn't a problem if we can get another supplier for food... Yokai certainly consume more than normal... Sometimes I wonder what working at a human inn is like... It can't be more stressful right?", she muttered and pondered to herself. The little trip was at a standstill as she stood in the middle of a street, albeit, not so crowded.

Silver Gate Academy [Accepting New Players]

Kyoto

Friday, June 3rd 20XX

---

Ultana

@I-Am-X

Hider

The shikigami Ultana had addressed began to blink nodes and screens across it's face in an ethereal pattern, causing a somewhat awkward pause, before it suddenly spoke up.

"Search complete. 'Fujiwara clan history', 467 results. 'Famous onmyouji', 128 results. If you would like to browse them, please use the magical projection upon my face", that was... unexpected. Though as it said, she could use the projection splayed across it's face like a borderless touchscreen, and browse the results. It appeared the results after the first 10 or so for the Fujiwara clan history were just other journals and notes about certain events. Not at all useful for an overview.

Meanwhile, in the 'famous onmyouji' search, there were plenty of results on just Abe no Seimei, with a few other famous names mixed in, yet that one name kept coming up. So she learns that this library was also a... Well, library, with some harmless texts available for reading, not just for finding scrolls on exorcist arts.

She can make her choice, and a shikigami will be remotely informed of her decision and bring her the necessary materials. She can seat herself anywhere that was not occupied and pore over them as she likes.

Otis

@ERode

Hider

Otis' search was... Not one that would take long. If he pursued his search in just one place, he would end up there anyways, the organization was not much of a secret among them, and in fact was registered as an official organization. All of the shrines and estates owned by the various exorcist families of the city were part of the alliance save a few, but due to the rules, they do not officially conduct exorcist activities. There were even agencies across Japan that were connected to this organization based around keeping order in the supernatural and real world.

Honestly, it felt like he had walked into an entirely new and third world within this world, with Arcanis being his first. In any case, his little research trip would tell him that the Fujiwaras are the biggest within the Alliance. Seemed like they controlled everything with other families being given specialized tasks, like different departments. Their structure despite their use of families was a lot like that of a secret service.

A lot of the onmyou he met in this trip were more than happy to inform of how the organization worked, but they were rather reluctant or refused to elaborate in certain things, though that made sense. He still had the tag with him so to them he was an introspective student.

Although all of his poking around and questioning did seem to yield something...

"My my, you are one of Kuuto's students yes? From Silver Gate", a familiar voice had approached him from behind. If Otis turned with his unique... Feature, being of the strigidae family, he would only simply laugh following an expression of surprise.

The voice was Motsumine no Fujiwara, the head of the Fujiwara family. Was this the jackpot? He was accompanied by a few other onmyou dressed similarly to him. The two that Otis was currently (or formerly) speaking to had bowed acknowledging his presence.

"I am on the way back from some business, but I do hope you're enjoying your stay here. I could not help but hear you inquire of the Alliance. It is rare to get students even interested in the organization, while I am happy they would want to study our arts, the organization is as important to some of us as our traditions", he said, flipping out his paper fan to cover his mouth as he chuckled.

"As such, I shall take a bit of time out of my day to answer any questions you have", he seemed to be in a rather good mood... Well, at first. Otis' sharp vision had noticed a few things about his complexion. He seemed a bit under duress though it was very minor, but it seems Motsumine has an act to stay on top of things.

Lorelai

@Lonewolf685

Hider

Lorelai after her practice was positively free to do as she liked. The results of her training had yielded some results, though the spears she handled were not all that heavy, in fact she got used to them quickly being experienced, she however did find or take to the handling of a yari quite well. There was a unique poise to the way you thrust the spear then brought it back, not present in other kinds of spearwork that were designed for all-in thrusts using the whole arm.

The shopping districts of Kyoto though were a rather refreshing sight. Despite the modern day city being that, the stores here were teeming with traditional Japanese crafts and foods. Traditional Japanese sweets, festival food being sold here all year round in some stores, restaurants, with the occasionally multi-national store like Starbucks. Every little story felt like it held a potential souvenir to take home. Whether or not she would, she can decide now, or later.

Maybe it would be nice to hang out around here and get something to eat with some people another time. Actually, hopefully, they've finished their own business by now, but they still had a few days on them anyway.

Though as Lorelai walked the streets, she could swear she saw feathers among the crowd yet, not a single bird was seen...

Aurelius

@Taka

Hider

The day went by quickly after meeting with that swordsman Akimoto. Who was he? Why was he here? Well, none of those questions really mattered to Aurelius it appeared as he doggedly practiced to do the one trick he was shown, but to no avail. Was there a trick involved? Or was it something else?

Regardless, if he would head back there this morning, he would find Akimoto dozing off on a bench. His face hidden by his sandogasa, a kind of Japanese straw hat for travelling. It was almost surreal seeing a man dressed like he came directly out of the Heian period or pre-Meiji. Yet here he was. Were Aurelius not aware of the year he was in and was transported here he would think he was sent into the past.