Soldiers of Light, ch. 1: "Here we go again"

[Raiden]

The sound of heated battle echoed through the halls of the dark fortress. Supernatural flames of purple and green lit up the throne room where Talkatz, the Demon King, sat and listened to the fighting going on outside. He stood at 11 feet tall, his skin a dark blistering mix of crimson and black, with six orbs glistening in his chest. His warped double-edged blade rested against his throne of stone, but he gave it no particular care.
It wasn't an uncommon occurrence for one of his station. Shogun, solitary heroes, and ragtag groups lead by a young soldier with hair and sword bigger than his brains often believed they would be the one to put him down. That they had the special something that made them unique compared to the hundreds of others who came before them. But it always ended the same. Just more stains on the front walk that had to be mopped up by the kappa. Most never even made it inside the fortress walls, and even those that did were put down like mad dogs by his Weapon Altmas. At this rate he'd run out of humans to eventually rule.
A loud knocking on the large steel double doors leading into his throne room began to clang. The demon lord's three eyes looked to stare at the doors as they were smashed open, the corpse of his Sword Altma tossed into the room with his head hanging to the body by only a thread of flesh. Following it in with a tipsy stride was a single warrior, his armor of samurai design with a facemask depicting a bird. The man reeked of cheap alcohol, and the stains and wetmarks on the front of his clothing indicated he had been drinking intensely.

"Ah! Talkatz! It's good to see you! Heard so much about you, but the stories just plain don't do you justice, sir!" The samurai stepped on the dead dog demon's corpse as he walked in, a loud crunching sound being heard. "Oops. Your dog left a mess on the floor."

The demon lord looked the warrior up and down. Just this one man got through his Altmas? And he was insulting him in his own house?

"Miserable little cretin. Do not think yourself a God because you slew a few of my soldiers." The demon lord got up from his chair, his full height towering over the human samurai. His hand grasped the massive double-edged blade and hefted it up. He only hesitated when a flash of light seared his eyes, making him cover them.

"Oh, you don't like that? Yeah, it has that effect on you things." The samurai was holding a glowing katana inscribed with seven runes, the aura alone was causing Talkatz to feel his strength starting to drain away. "Beautiful, isn't she? Makes you just want to look at it for hours." The samurai reached for a gourd at his hip, pulling a plug out with his teeth as he drank down the alcoholic contents. Talkatz frowned deeply.

"You realize I am going to kill you now, human trash."

"It'd be borrrring if ya didn't." His words were starting to slur more.

"And whose name should I spread as the latest samurai to be gutted and fed to my followers?"

"Yer mother." With that the samurai sprinted at the demon king, his glowing sword slashing in low.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
1000 years later
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Daisuke Kurama awoke in his bed. He'd had that dream again. It always went the same, like someone holding a book up to his face and telling him to look at it over and over. He stood up off his bedroll, tying his long black hair back into a ponytail. The Raigaki was leaning against the door of the small room, reminding him to take it before leaving. He still had a bad habit of leaving it lying around, but when you've been forced to carry something for the past decade or so, you tend to be more comfortable with leaving it lying around. He picked it up and attached its sheath to his hip, letting the sword bump against his leg each time he walked. He exited the small house, hurrying off to a meeting point where his friends should be waiting.

[Bard The 5th LW]

Akemi Ichirou couldn't help but grin to himself like a maniac as he made his way to the target. How fortunate he was to get such an order! Kill Daisuke Kurama, the descendant of Daisuke Tama. If power was hereditary for humans, then this would be oh so much fun! Ichirou wasn't the only one with the order either, but he had made sure to sprint off so as to be the first to land an attack. This was going to be his game to play, not theirs! They can have their turn later.

As stealthily as someone like Ichirou can be, he made his way off to the home Kurama was residing in. When he got their, he followed his natural instinct, and ripped a hole in the back wall with his gloved hands.

"HEY! ANYONE HOME? I WANNA HAVE SOME FUN!," he shouted manically. He scanned the surrounding room he had busted into with disappointment. "Oh son of a samurai," he muttered to himself. He was too late! The descendant of Daisuke Tama had fled!

Despondently, the half-demon exited through the front door of the home like a normal person. He was too depressed to rip another hole in the wall kool-aid man style. His spirits lightened however, when he exited the house to find that apparently someone had just left.

"Hey you there," he shouted waving around a hand at him, the gold aura over his gauntlets waving around. It had just occured to him that he never actually stayed around to get a description of Kurama, so he may as well see if this guy knew anything, or if he was anyone important seeing as he had a sword. "Friend, can you tell me where I can find Daisuke Kurama, help a guy out," he said. Any normal person would run away, and Ichirou knew it, but he figured it was worth a try. No matter what the answer turned out to be, Ichirou was so going to off this guy after he got an answer. It didn't matter if the guy told him where to go, or he just screamed in terror.

[Julford Hajime]

Not too far away from the house, a short woman waited. Kurama was walking almost leisurely, like he didn't expect her. Fool. How many times had she warned him that she'd strike him down when he let his guard down?

She reached into the spirits bound to her will, dredging out their power. About five feet in front of Kurama, and two feet off to his left, a small bunch of rocks burst straight into the air*.

Hopefully distracted by the magic, Kotone made her move. Behind Kurama and a little to his right, Kotone teleported in, stick ready and in the air as she swung downwards, aiming for his right shoulderblade. "Today I win Kurama!" she shouted as she swung her weapon.

*: Basically, a group of rocks shoot upwards and fall back down, not near Kurama**.

**: I got the impression that we'd typically be using characters last names (In this case most would refer to me as Yuiri), but Yuiri Kotone is disrespectful to y'all, hence Daisuke is being called Kurama :P

EDIT: Ninja'd by Bard. I'mma assume she just didn't notice Akemi starting the discussion.

[Raiden]

Kurama looked up, then smoothly stepping to the side as Kotone's stick fell past and struck on the ground. He was about to say something when a strange fellow with a glowing glove just...tore a hole through his house.

He looked up at the man. Then down at Kotone. Then back up at the man. He then pointed down at Kotone. "That's Kurama."

He then went back to walking toward his meeting place.

[batgirl]

Jade leaned back against the trunk of the tree, her arms behind her head. She had made it to the meeting place early and had leaped into a tall tree to wait out Kurama and the others. She was stealthy at first, carefully hiding herself behind foliage and such, but after at least an hour in the broad daylight, she had gotten bored and was now lounging on a thick tree branch waiting for the others. "Why is it that when we need to meet everyone is late but me?"

[Overcast]

A sip of tea, gently bitter, perhaps a bit nutty, warm enough to feel good entering his empty stomach, cool enough not to scald his mouth. His sharp eyes staring out at a scene that if he could say so was marked by one human trait,

"Stupidity."

Ieyasu was sitting at the top of a hill, little campfire and a little teapot sitting next to it. Next to it now because he had already steeped it to the proper degree, and he didn't want to overboil it. He had been watching over the gauntlet wearing creep for a bit after he had taken off to try to take down the wielder of the holy sword. He wasn't impressed. Charging up to the scene and breaking things, no subtlety, no plan. Just a messy situation. He didn't mind just sitting up here with his tea, watching it all unfold. He didn't mind letting someone else take the risk while he kept to himself, he might even be the one to save the creep. To be honest though if he got so lucky as to actually beat that grand decedent he'd be sure to put an arrow in the stupid creep's skull and steal the glory for himself.

That was just the kind of guy he was, and really might just assure his immortality.

For now though he just poured himself another bowl of tea, keeping an eye on all the players down below. Particularly the one with the sword at his hip.

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo arrived at the meeting place at a decent time. He still had a little time to kill before everyone else got there.

"Why is it that when we need to meet everyone is late but me?" he heard a voice say.

He looked up and noticed Jade lounging about.

"Don't be silly Jade." He said as he strolled towards the tree she was in, "We still have time before everyone should be arriving."

He then leaned back against the tree trunk and looked back towards the meeting place. Soon everyone they knew would be gathering but he wasn't quite sure why they were gathering here. The info he got from Kumura was vague and just said to meet him here at the given time. They still had a bit before the scheduled time but that was alright, he could relax till then.

"Hey Jade," Yojimbo said as he looked up at her, "Do you have any idea what this is all about?"

[batgirl]

Jade was shocked when she heard a voice and almost lost her balance and fell out of the tree. She righted herself and looked down to see Yojimbo. "I have no idea, but I assume it's important if he called everyone." She decided that the tree was a bad idea and slipped from it, landing nimbly on her feet. She stretched and adjusted her scarf. "I hope it's something useful though, maybe he found a piece of the Demon Lord's body or something."

[Bard The 5th LW]

"Hmm," Ichirou said with a confused look, tilting his head to the side. That name seemed inaccurate for the person, but the accuser did seem pretty quick and confident in his accusation of the alleged Daisuke Kurama. "That's and oddity, Kurama is usually a boy's name. At least I think it is (http://www.shiroitsubasa.com/shiroitsubasa/Kurama_Wall_800.jpg)."

'Wait, don't just leave," Ichirou shouted at the swordsman when he began to walk off. "There's no way to properly tell yet!" He then stood in thought for a brief moment, hand to his chin. "I got it," he shouted gleefully, making a clank as he clasped his hands together. "I'll take both your skulls. Twice the fun and less the risk of getting it wrong!"

"So which one of you wants to go first," he inquired, eyes opened wide. "Perhaps the swordsman or maybe the lovely young lady with a boy's name! I'll let you two decide and then take the initiative on your own!"

[lazy man]

Suzume looked at the pile of rocks in front of him with a bored look on his face. Was this really the spot? Those people in town couldn't have been wrong, could they? One of them said it was this place, anyway...

There was no sign of life, no footprints, nothing. This was getting annoying. He thought he'd found the right place for once...

RRRRRUMBLE

So annoying, finding the right place for these kinds of things.

RRRRRRUMBLE, CRUNCH

If only there were better ways of finding places, like magically being told where they were every minute or so.

RRRRRRUMBLE, BOOOM, CRU--"Would you shut the hell up! I'm busy complaining in my head... here... oh." Suzume yelled as he turned around, seeing the large pile of rocks shaping itself into the earth demon he was being paid to hunt. "So this WAS the right spot..."

Not having time to react, the earthen monstrosity roared as it grabbed the puny demon hunter and threw him with all its might. This, of course, meant Suzume began to sail through the air VERY fast. Whatever he would hit was gonna be painful. And even more painful would be finding the thing again since it would probably end up moving.

"Ah, fuck it."

Suzume pulled back his hand and threw his arm forward, a bright blue beam of pure force hurtling towards the demon below and throwing Suzume off at an angle in mid-air. With a confused look on what had to be its face, the demon blew into an uncountable number of chunks and its soul--looking like a small blue flame to Suzume--flew off and into the demon hunter's body.

"Aw yeah! Eat that, bastard!" the demon hunter yelled in celebration as twelve small blue flames danced around him. The yelling continued until Suzume realized he was still in the air. And that he was beginning to fall very, very fast toward a hillside some distance away.



-----At the meeting place for the good guys------

"oh fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu--" was all that could be heard by anyone in the area before a figure, decidedly human, plummeted through the tree Jade had been in, bounced off the ground twice, and rolled into a rock not too far away.

"Uuuuuuuuuuuugh..." was all that could be heard from the lump on the ground that was a demon hunter named Suzume. He had no idea he had just crashed into a meeting that would determine the destiny of the world, but flying through a tree and into a rock tended to distract your priorities. Although had he known, he would have just shrugged and rolled with it.

[POS Industries]

A man, dressed in a dusty and worn dark green kimono, rested against the side of a building down the road from the commotion and exploded house, face shaded under the brim of his straw hat, kitana resting against the wall next to him in its light brown scabbard. He turned a dull, glimmerless eye toward the crazy man shouting at random strangers, a swordsman ignoring him and continuing down the path with a young woman standing with a stick behind him.

A crowd was beginning to draw. The half-demon was an idiot who would not be missed. Dai was already busy not missing him.

He turned his eyes away from the scene for a moment, spotting a young boy who'd come out to survey the scene with his parents who was now looking straight at him with confusion and concern. Dai certainly wasn't a healthy sight, color drained away from cold, waxy skin, dark circles around sunken eyes, black hair laying in a limp frame around his face.

Dai smiled, hoping to reassure the child that there was nothing wrong in his direction, and quickly tilted his head to gesture toward the current ruckus. It having seemed to work and the boy's attention drawn away, he pulled the brim of his hat further down in front of his face and continued to watch the scene unfold himself through his periphery.

[krogothwolf]

"I have no idea, but I assume it's important if he called everyone." Jade said as she jumped down the tree and landed, Yojimbo was always shocked and impressed at how silently the girl seemed to move.

"I hope it's something useful though, maybe he found a piece of the Demon Lord's body or something."

He nodded at that. "I wonder if we'd ever be that lucky, at most he would here rumours and send off us investigating. Oh well, that's half the fun though eh."

Yojimbo ended with a smile then heard something weird and then looked around. What the hell was that noise. He looked stepped away from the tree and looked around before looking up.

"What the hell?" He mumbled, seeing the object falling.

He leapt back and drew his swords as the thing? A human? flew from the sky and smashed into the tree and rolled into a rock. Yojimbo was used to weird things, but even he didn't expect to see something like this. Random people falling from the sky generally don't happen everyday. He walked cautiously towards the prone form. Not sure if it was friendly or not. His one sword a blazing fire in his hand while the other glittered in the sun.

"I say," Yojimbo said loudly, "do you still live? If you do you best start talking."

[lazy man]

Still dazed from his fall and clearly confused, Suzume looked up at Yojimbo after managing to move so he was actually facing the person addressing him. Attempting to stand only led the mess of a man to fall over into the rock and flop down onto his side. The ground was actually much more comfortable than he remembered. Very sturdy, not moving in every direction at once. Maybe his head could be like the ground in a minute...

"I'm... alive? Don't know... Can't tell... Ow..." Looking up at Yojimbo's swords, something like dazed ADD kicked in as he mindlessly said "Ooooo.... shiny....." How he was still conscious was anyone's guess, but he was. Barely.

[Raiden]

Kurama waved off the loud yelling man. "How about you two fight, and then the winner comes to get me? I've got an appointment." His walk picks up speed as the young fighter moved to quickly get out of the town before the two nutjobs decided to wreck everything.

[Overcast]

Ieyasu stared boredly as the scene continued to unfold. It seemed the man was going to fight someone, someone who genderly could not possibly be the target. Oh joy. Meanwhile the most likely candidate was sneaking off, and so he picked up his teapot and followed far behind.

He didn't want to be noticed, else he might actually have to worry a bit about defending himself against someone who knew he was there. He didn't want to lose him though. He wondered if there were any other of Talkaz nearby, he could use the fodder if it came down to a fight. Not that he couldn't fight close, he just preferred when the death to life ratio was in his favor. He'd have to keep an eye open, and maybe he'd get lucky.

[Julford Hajime]

Waitwaitwaitwaitwait. Did Kurama just say she was him? She looked back, to see Kurama walking back as she mumbled "The hell, Kurama?" Turning back briefly to finally notice the other man, who was a bit larger than herself. Still, that was all he had going for him; some punk with a shiny pair of gloves? "Not worth it." Using her magic, she created a bright flash of light directly in front of the glove-wearing punks' eyes; it wasn't meant to blind him, but instead display that there was no sense messing with her.

By the time the flash of light would have ended, she'd already teleported back another five feet, which was close enough to take another swing at Kurama. This time it was a broad left-to-right motion at chest height. "Dammit, fight me, you arrogant sunovabitch!"

[Astral Harmony]

Tsubasa smiled at the utter ridiculousness before her. She wasn't hiding and even seemed obtrusively visible. She sat on the edge of a roof, watching Kurama walking quickly by after putting his identity on someone else's shoulders. "Aww, it's not polite to run from those two, Dai-sama." Tsubasa said, inclining her head slightly. "Destiny would have you fight that half-demon imbecile eventually. You really should end it now since the opportunity presents itself so easily."

Despite how close Tsubasa was to Daisuke and Kotone, not more than twenty paces and an elevation difference of about ten feet, Tsubasa made no move to engage Daisuke or even follow him. Instead, she just seemed to be enjoying the warm sun and the comedy routine, her unearthly white hair swaying gently in the wind like wheat.

[Toastburner B]

Osamu felt like he could almost smell the Raigaki. Almost taste it.

Of course, he had no way of knowing if it really was or not. Osamu just liked to wax philosophic sometimes.

But as far as he could figure, the Raigaki, and by extension the idiot that carried it, was near.

Osamu smiled. The wielder was of no importance to him personally. Once he took the sword, undoubted some other demon loyal to Talkatz would kill him. He knew others were hunting the wielder of Raigaki. It would be easier to wait until they came before Osamu tried to claim the blade.

"Redemption is nigh," he said to himself.

[PhoenixFlame]

Some distance away from the scene, on a small, quaint hill overlooking Daisuke Kurama's house, formerly owned by Genkai Kurama, whom bears little to no relation to Daisuke Kurama, and is most certainly not the same man in an alternate universe, there was a quiet forested patch of land. A medium sized mountain bear can be seen in view, its brown fur reflecting dully in the scattered canopy sunlight. It is feeding on a small berry bush.

From the darkness of the thick nest of small pines, a low, feral growl is heard. The bear, curious, but unafraid due to its status as top predator, rises onto its rear paws, and turns towards the noise, sniffing the air. The underbrush crackles roughly, and there is silence. The bear lowers its head, waiting for the next sound.

Like a bolt of lightning, a massive white wolf bursts from the foliage on the bear's flank, leaping over the smaller animal as it attempts to react, far too slow for the assailant. The wolf rotates mid-jump to face its prey as it passes, catching the top of the animal with its forepaws as it does so, throwing the bear off balance. It staggers to regain its footing as the wolf skids to a stop, tearing ragged cuts into the ground as the massive predator attempts to rapidly change momentum.

A roar of pain is cut short through the treetops, causing a number of perching crows to become startled and take flight.

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo sheathed his sharper taito and grabbed the man and picked him up on to his feet. Figuring the poor bastard would fall if he let go of him he held him up, though he kept his flaming one free just in case. You never knew what you could run in out here, and anyone who could survive falling from the air was worth being suspicious about.

He waited for a minute for the man to regain his senses before letting him go and handing him his waterskin.

"You mind telling me who you are?" Yojimbo asked with the most authoritative voice he had. "Not everyday a man falls from the sky, if you are a man...."

He looked the person over, he did look human after all but still, something about the man made him suspicious. It was probably the fact he survived a crazy fall like that without looking to worse for wear. He held is blade in his hand just far enough away so he didn't burn the man but close enough so he could see it. He was trying his best not to be to threatening to the dazed man.

[Darth SS]

High guard, left jab, range out. Opening. Close, jam arm, right jab, false cross, right shovel. These were the thoughts going through Drak's mind as he sparred with his newest adversary. Normally he would ignore challenges, but the man had made a claim he could not refuse. Upon claiming that he could teach Drak how to bring an opponent off balance without tying up his hands, Drak became curious. Japan was an interesting place. It had all of the customs and tradition of France, but also seemingly had none of the irony or greed that accompanied it. People seemed to genuinely behave in a proper fashion because they felt that it was the right thing to do, not due to obligation or greed. No one's ass was kissed for sake of it, but rather respect was shown all around. This intrigued Drak more than anything. Nevertheless, he had a job to do.

"Now," said the kindly japanese man as Drak was stepping back. The man took a half step forward, stepping onto Drak's foot. A simple foot trap, he'd seen it before. Anyone else would have fallen back, but Drak brought his weight forward, and place his heel into the man's hip. With a quick push, his balance was gone.

"Thank you sir," said Drak, "Had I found you a month ago, I would have been most surprised by this technique. I regret to inform you that someone else has already demonstrated that technique to me." There was a faint murmur amongst the small crowd, so Drak felt compelled to keep talking. "I thank you very much for your time and wisdom." He bowed deeply, as seemed to be customary in this part of the world. Quickly, he gathered up his cane, put his shoes back on, and put on his coat. No sense dallying about. Upon slinging his bag over his shoulder he dusted off his pants with a quick pat, and continued on his way. He had been edge of the village, so it did not take long to break into the forest.

Farther down the path, he could see a gentleman he had seen a few times. Kura-something was his name. Drak had not seen much of him, but one experience stood out. They had been in a tavern where a skirmish had broken out. While Drak had used his cane to defend himself, Kurama had drawn a very unique sword. He struck with the flat of the blade, until a group had thrown a table at him. Kura-sumthinerother had clove the table in two without pause. Since that event, Drak had been overcome with curiousity as to the origin of such a blade.

Before his eyes, a figure spontaneously attacked Kura-watzisname, teleporting in doing so. Curious to see how he would respond to such random agression, but also too far away to do much, Drak slowed his pace.

[Zero Hex]

As the commotion raged on, Yoshitsune walked into the scene, his ample cloak hiding his body whilst the hood darkened his features. He moved at an uneasy pace, carefully tapping the floor in front of him with his staff before taking steps, often turning his head to random directions as if trying to make out a sound's direction, loudly voicing "Would anyone have some spare coin for an unfortunate soul?" every few steps. Not that he was really blind. However, Yoshitsune had learned that people tended to help blind men more than they did those who appered to be healthy or otherwise unimpaired. He had wandered in this town a few days ago and was just leaving when some colorful characters showed themselves, piquing his interest.

Seemingly oblivious to the general situation, he stumbled about repeating his message whilst looking as meek as possible, sizing up the people involved. As Kotone made her swing, Yoshitsune crashed hard into her back, stumbling backwards a bit and bowing deeply "Ooooh, I am terribly sorry good sir. Please excuse a blind man's clumsyness"

[Arcanum]

Izuko had been tempted to disobey Kurama's instructions and not go to the meeting place. He had been tempted to join Kurama as he left his house, and accompany him in case anything might happen. After all he had made a promise to his father, and if the occasion arose he would gladly give his life to protect Kurama's. However, Izuko knew that Kurama could take care of himself should anything arise, so he decided that he would go to the meeting place after all.

As he arrived at the set location he was glad he had made the choice he made. He arrived to see another of Kurama's followers, Yatsume Yojimbo if he wasn't mistaken, with his swords drawn while facing a man who seemed delusional. If Izuko's eyes weren't playing tricks on him, this man seemed to be the object that had fallen out of the sky mere moments ago. Izuko was actually rather impressed that the man was still conscious.

"I don't think the man is much of a threat in his current state, Yojimbo. However if it will make you feel safer I could chain him up for you," Izuko said with a slight chuckle. He gave a leisurely wave to the swordsman and noticed an easily noticeable orange scarf, which he gave a polite nod and said, "Hello Jade. Are there any others here or is it just us three and our unexpected guest?"

[Menarker]

Erayo's large brutish human form laid almost drunkenly against one of several stone huts, his eyes glazed with boredom and appearance of exhaustion although his mind was incredibly lively and active, and the mugs strewed around him being merely water and just for show... a pity that he couldn't had been left undisturbed. With the various forces running wild, even he, the Demon of Slumber, was reluctantly awaken much like a persistent mosquito buzzing around one's face as they slept. Either way, he wanted the conflict to end. And since the humans tend not to meddle in the realms of demons unless beckoned, that was the choice he made.

His aura radiated invisibly but powerfully as he willed everyone but him to drop, as he wished to see whom were capable advocates and whom were useless busybodies. Bodies of the crowd slumped over practically dead and sleeping, as Erayo himself pretended to sleep. Exhaustion and weakness crept up on everyone else, practically tempting those with weakened bodies and minds to a comatose state. Only the strong would remain awake, although still weaken... And that is when Erayo can further judge the situation...

[PyrosNine]

Scrape. step. slide. Scrape. step. slide. Scrape. step. slide.

The trip had been more arduous than he'd thought.

Scrape. step. slide.

The wounds, though they had been given time to recover, made every step excruciating.

Scrape. step. slide. step. Scrape.

Stumbling, on an old dirt road, twigs and thorns, snagging roots and feral squirrels, all steps were hard.

Scrape. Step. Slide. Step. Scrape.

He had to get to the next town before nightfall, or else he was afraid he'd wake up the next morning too sore to move, and suffer some animal chewing on his face while he lay there. Pick up the pace.

Step. Scrape. Step-Step. sliiiide-STEP.

Maybe slow down a little. Haste makes tumble down on face.

Maybe if he stumbled upon others, he could pay them to carry him. On a wagon. Good wagon. He had money, money meant for treatment, armor, aloe vera.

Scrape. Step. slide step step step slide step.

Uh-oh.

Step step slidescrape slide, slide, step half-step trip fall-mudsplash.

Blarghle murphr muck glarble blurp.

Pyros rolled over, having the fortune to have what was hopefully cold, cool mud break his fall. It had not rained today, as far as he could tell, so this was good. Even if it was poo, it was good. Meant there were people, livestock, on a road.

He could hear...could he hear? Mud in ear.

No! He could hear, he could hear a town! A town, with people! Maybe there would be a fishing hole? No, more important matters. Food. Healing. Wolves not chewing on his face while he slept. Good things.

Raising his head, he looked at his back, and the mess of feathers it was.

...This would be problematic.

Far off, he heard a bear die. That was even moreso.

He reached forward with an aching, bandaged arm and seized the mud and muck before him, and pulled. On his belly, like a worm in the muck, he crawled forward, towards what were surely the town gates.

[Dauntasa]

Katashi watched the meeting place from afar. So far 3 men and 1 woman had arrived, though none fit the description of Kurama. One of them did appear to have some sort of glowing sword, but it seemed to be glowing less from internal power and more from being on fire, so that probably wasn't it. Katashi didn't get a good look at the one who fell out of the tree, but, judging by the flaming sword now held in the "I don't want to seem threatening but I still want to be able to stab you" position and pointed in his general direction, that probably wasn't Kurama. So, decisions, decisions. Should he take out Kurama's friends and the guy from the tree and then fight Kurama when he arrives, or jump Kurama and stab him to death, then fight his friends? Probably better to get them out of the way, then fight Kurama on even terms. Decision made, Katashi picked up his Naginata and started toward the meeting area.

[Dracorion]

Daisuke Yoshiro was going back. He was going back home, to a faraway mountain and live the rest of his life in peace. He had left home, despite being told that the world was a violent and ugly place, and gave the world every chance to prove him wrong. He travelled far, and saw death and conflict everywhere. The Demon Lord's invasion had only helped to exacerbate the inherent darkness in humans, but even if Talkatz weren't around they would still be killing each other. And Yoshiro had had enough.

He was only passing through a simple town, but he saw that even here conflict had erupted, and he was compelled to stop and watch. It seemed two people were looking to hurt a man wearing samurai clothing, while a third sitting on a rooftop who seemed to be talking at the man. There was some confusion between the attackers, but it became clear from the dialogue that the man in samurai clothing was the one they were looking for.

And then a blind man bumped into one of the attackers. Great. Yoshiro sighed as he stepped forward. This was going to end badly. He stepped between the blind man and the woman he had bumped into. "Sir, you had better leave this place. It's not safe." Yoshiro told blind man, before turning to the woman. "Miss, might I ask why you two are seeking to harm that man?" He indicated Kurama. "What wrong has he caused you?"

[Raiden]

Kurama grinned at the blind man who ran interference. He flicked him a coin before walking off. "Always good to help the helpless."

He trotted off faster, hoping to get to the meeting place before something else weird happened.

[Julford Hajime]

BUMP. Before Kotone even had the chance to swing around and clobber the oaf who was getting in her way, another man jumped between the two of them. What the hell was going on today? What's with all the interuptions? She looked quickly from the blind fool, to the meddling man, back to Kurama. She sighed. Now her mood was ruined; there'd be no joy even if she did get Kurama today. There would always be another time to win, and she'd just have to relish the victory then.

Looking back to the two men who'd just now interupted her, she noticed that the man who'd tried to defuse the situation was carrying a spear. "Interesting... Wonder if he can use it?" she wondered as she ignored the meddler's questions. Or rather, sidestepped them to ask her own. "Spear, eh? I wonder, can you use it?"

She took a quick swing at the man, aiming for his left-side knee with her rod; there was enough force there to knock a man off his feet, if not outright break the knee. Regardless of how that attack went, she followed it up with a quick gust of air, strong enough to knock most people off their feet, going forward right towards her new opponent. She remained ready to teleport at a moment's notice, though, should something unexpected happen.

[Dracorion]

Yoshiro quickly jumped over the woman's swing, but while he was still in the air he was knocked backwards by a gust of wind, landing on his back. He sighed as he got up and dusted himself off. Yep, this was going to end badly. Yoshiro drew the spear, though he made no motion to attack, he simply held it perpendicular to the ground.

"Why have you attacked me?" He asked, his anger rising. "I have no intention of harming you. I simply wished to defuse the situation and avoid any needless violence."

[mauve]

As though the indignity of crawling face-down through the mud wasn't bad enough, now Pyros had someone poking him with a stick.

"Oho, here's somethin' you don't see everyday!"cackled a voice. "A dead tengu (http://www.obakemono.com/obake/tengu/)!" The stick wedged itself under Pyros' arm and flipped the man on his back.

"All right, birdy. What kinda treasures are you hiding.... Oh! So, you're still alive, eh? Hello there!" Pyros found himself looking at up a withered old woman, barely five feet tall. She prodded him with the end of her walking stick.

"You're awful good-lookin' for a tengu, ain't ya bird-boy?" she asked. "Hoo, but you also look like you've been a chew-toy for a pack of wolves. C'mon son. Don't play around in the mud." The old woman reached down and grabbed Pyros by the collar. With a surprising strength, she hauled the injured Pyros to his feet. She gave him her stick to lean on.

"Now that's better, innit? C'mon, Tengu Boy. There's a village just over there. No need to bleed yerself to death out on somebody's back lawn when you could do it somewhere where there's better food and drink. And of course, once you're feeling well enough to give back my stick, you'll be gracious enough to spare a few coins so good old Oki can eat too." She patted his arm and started to lead him down the road.

[rapter200]

Two thunderous blasts sounded off in the distance, the ground around Matsuoka Katashi erupted into rubble. Sulran had noticed the unfamiliar figure from a far off distance, his face was not one he readily recognized as an ally of Kurama. Thus the two warning shots. The suspect man wouldn't be difficult to hit at a range like this, he was huge. Built like a brick house. He kept his weapon trained on the man as he made his way to the meeting point, he didn't want to kill an innocent man but this man did not look so innocent.

When he reached the top he noticed three familiar faces and one he had never seen before. “Hello Yojimbo, Izuko, Jade.” he greeted each one then turned to the newcomer his face showing apprehension. “Strange this is the second unfamiliar face I have seen around here, it seems like we have attracted unwanted attention.” Sulran readied Kore Wa Desu,“I spotted an unknown man headed this way as I was walking. I fired off two warning shots, hoping to scare him off. If he has anything that could pass for intelligence he would know to start running in the opposite direction. Now tell me who is this man who seems to be quite out of place in our meeting area.”

[lazy man]

Suzume happily took Yojimbo's water, still not quite realizing the danger he was in by apparently not having the trust of these people. He noticed Jade not too far away, not knowing what to think, and then noticed the flaming sword being waved in his face nonchalantly. Suzume may just have thought about fighting if not for Izuko arriving and mentioning chaining him up. Which of two would be worse was something the demon hunter couldn't really decide on, so he decided for introductions instead.

"The name's--" and was promptly interrupted by Sulran. Everyone seemed intent on killing him for some reason. Why was that? He'd just fallen from a large distance, normally people would try and be helpful to the injured person.

"Alright, fine, I give up. I just flew who knows how far, fell through a tree, straight into the ground and into a rock, and you guys wanna kill me or tie me up. Pfeh! Whatever! I'll have you know my first impressions are telling me yer a buncha assholes!" And with that, he went and sat down on the very rock he'd rolled with his back to the group, greedily drinking Yojimbo's water. Might as well get something out of this mess.

[krogothwolf]

"I never said I was going to kill you, you don't offer a man a drink if you plan on killing them." Yojimbo replied to the exasperated man. "We just want to know who you are and why you fell from the sky, you can understand people being suspicious about that in this day and age."

He nodded to Sultan

"What this about another stranger?" He asked as he looked in the direction he heard the shots from and noticed what looked to be a man walking towards them. "Did you get a look at the other one?"

He was still looking at the other one and rested his free hand on the hilt of his other sword, just to be ready for anything and waved his flaming sword at the direction of the sitting man.

"I don't think this one here is much of a danger aside from his ungodly ability to survive falling from the sky and smacking into things. Don't know much about him but we may not have time to ask to many questions."

[Astral Harmony]

Tsubasa watched Kotone and Yoshiro carefully. If the two of them got into a fight and weakened each other, it'd be all too easy to kill them both and be done with it. Now that Daisuke Kurama was about to begin his journey to destroy Lord Talkatz, powerful humans and demons alike were crawling out of the woodwork, herself included.

There was no hurry to destroy Kurama. Let the lesser demons try to deal with him first and if they could, then no problem. And if they died, well that was probably for the best, as well.

[Zero Hex]

Yoshitsune bowed deeply and "searched" the floor for the dropped coin, randomly tapping around before picking the coin up. He was going to thank the man when he suddenly felt...tired? He surveyed the area again and, to his chagrin, spotted members of the crowd dropping like flies. Oh joy, someone with the power to force others to sleep he thought as he shook his head, pushing the unnatural feeling of weakness and drowsiness from his mind. He carefully considered attacking Kotone from the back, but that was hardly honorable and he'd be risking his disguise by doing so, instead opting to follow the spearman's advice and scuttle off in the kind swordsman's direction. It was clear he was the "Kurama" the gauntlet wielding maniac was looking for and now that he'd been involved, he wanted to find out why.

Staying away from the swordsman, he moved at a slow and leisury pace, though a careful observer would notice that he never lost track of Kurama and that his wooden sandals made much less noise than they normally did. It had been a while since he'd been involved in the events of the world but it troubled him to find so many people with abilities with this man in the center of it all, and he'd be damned if he let him out of his sight before he knew what was happening.

[Dauntasa]

A gun? Now that was interesting. Katashi hadn't seen a gun for a long time, they were quite rare in this area, but he recognized it. Guns were perhaps Katashi's least favorite weapon. Powered by some strange force, not magic, because they could hurt him, but some science. His armour hadn't been totally bulletproof the last time he'd encountered one, and he wasn't eager to test it again. This might require more guile than he was accustomed to using. He needed to keep walking, but slower and with his weapon slung, and he needed to get close to the gunman...

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo stepped in front of Sulran and walked a bit towards the walking man before stopping. His blazing sword still in his hand while his other hand was resting on his second blade.

Sulran, get your gun trained on this bastard." Yojimbo said to him, "He was obviously not smart enough to heed the warning shots, nor does he care his is outnumbered. Unless Flying man is on his team, but it'd still be 2 to 1 odds."

He then watched the man slow his pace and sling his weapon. Ha, that's kind of silly, slinging it or not he still had it out before.

"HO!" Yojimbo yelled at the advancing man. "Come no further friend. If you wish no harm to come to you, leave this area."

[Dauntasa]

The man's flaming sword was most certainly magical. That was good. He'd blocked the gunman's shot, as well. That was better. He was getting close, now. Almost close enough to strike. His naginata would take too long to draw for this, he'd have to use his sword. If he could keep the man talking for another minute, that would be enough. Hmm. But what to say? It didn't have to be convincing; just not immediately obvious. He cleared his throat. "I was told to come here," he said in a gravelly voice, "that there was to be a meeting."

[Arcanum]

Izuko watched Suzume sulk off with Yojimbo's water, and was about to go console him when his attention was taken by the new stranger that was approaching. He didn't like the look of this new man, and he couldn't even see a face that he may or may not recognize. He also ignored Sulran and Yojimbo's warnings without breaking his stride. The man was either very confident or very stupid. Regardless he was getting too close for comfort, and something about his vague answer set off a warning bell in Izuko's mind. Preparing for the worst Izuko withdrew Shirogane, holding the kama handle in his left hand and the loops of chain in his right.

"I think that's close enough there," Izuko called out. "We wouldn't want you within striking distance before we know who you are. If you come any closer I won't hesitate to disarm and restrain you before finding out how you know about this meeting."

[Menarker]

Erayo passively watched the antics between the spear user, the sword-woman and the one possessing the gauntlets being ignored as everyone else of no consequences dropped to the ground fast asleep. The blind man that had trodded off was also a figure of particular notice. These were among several of mortal and potentially demonic agencies which he himself would have to attend to.

Continuing to lay solvenly against the hut, he focused the debilibating effect of his aura against the sword-woman, in the attempt to make her think twice about fighting 2 vs 1 odds with a crippled body. If the gauntlet user would attempt to attack, he would just switch back the focus of his aura back and forth between the two. The spear user seemed like a total pacifist, so attention on that figure was... negliable. His own body tensed as he prepared for any assault on his person with his own brute strength, his body always well rested and powerful as a result.

[Julford Hajime]

"I said, can you use it?" Kotone demanded, casting a bright flash of light in Yoshiro's eyes right before teleporting behind her spear-weilding opponent. Something went wrong, though, and instead of a bright light it was merely a dull glow, like that of a lanturn. Still, though, the teleport worked.

As she teleported directly behind Yoshiro, she made a swing towards the ribs on the side he wasn't holding his spear on*; there wasn't nearly as much force as a normal swipe, though, and this did not go unnoticed. Why was her magic less effective, and why were her muscles so... tired? Was this man with the spear doing this? Is this why he was buying for time?

Heh. Guess he does have some strength, then.

[PhoenixFlame]

The mutilated carcass of a bear graced the formerly serene woods on the hill overlooking Kurama's house, behind the standing figure of a tall, white-haired woman wearing red armor laced from indeterminately shining scales. The figure brought its left arm up to her face, before wiping the blood from her mouth, flicking it off to one side, extending the fingers at the end to send the droplets as far as possible.

Koyuki walked past her meal, pushing the underbrush out of her way as she strode through it. Her nose, up until a minute previous, had focused on the rapidly clustering number of entities in the village below, several of whom had not bathed in days and one... very distinct signature that seemed faintly fishy. There were demons, some of which were likely part of Talkatz' forces but none of whom had deigned to rendevous with her as had been initially planned.

No doubt they all wanted to kill Kurama themselves and steal the glory! She could not fault their logic, but she could rather heavily fault their sense. Well, no matter. Wherever the glory-seeking deserters might be, t'was time to go scatter the sheep, and let the wolves give chase.

With long strides, she began to powerfully descend the hill towards the unfolding scene.

[Dracorion]

The woman had issued a dull glow, which Yoshiro assumed was meant to be a bright flash. Her actions were slow. Yoshiro found it easy to move out of the way of her swing. Strange. Her first attack had been much faster. He looked at the crowd and saw they were all asleep. That had to be it. Someone was putting people to sleep and making the enemies tired, but Yoshiro felt fine. Why hadn't it affected him?

He would deal with that later. Right now, he had a bloodthirsty woman who, despite being tired, was still a threat. She could teleport, so trapping her was out of the question. Still, he would have to test her abilities. Suddenly, a wall of flames erupted from all directions around the woman and descended on her. Behind it, Yoshiro rushed forward, flames parting to let him through as he attempted to slam her into the ground.

[krogothwolf]

"Tch" Yojimbo said as the man took another step forward, "looks like the idiot doesn't care about the odds. I'll engage him first, you back me up if you figure I need help Izuko, I trust your judgment on these situations."

Yojimbo then charged, quicker then the man probably expected and brought his Blazing tachi Okibi down at the man's head. He saw the arm go up and wanted to laugh at the idiot who was sacrificing his arm. The blade bit in to the arm, barely, and the fire dieing out where it connected. Yojimbo's eyes widen in surprise at that and almost didn't see the blow coming in at his side. He barely drew his other tachi to block it, the man's blade cutting into his side slightly.

Yojimbo jumped back and launched a counter attack with his blood tachi Garou, though slower then he normally would have as he was still surprised that his blade went out briefly. His opponent rolled to his right away from the lunge and came up to his feet with a glare in his eyes.

"A defensive man?" Yojimbo said to the person as he looked at him, loosening his muscles, "heavy armour hides the fact you are resistant to magic, am I right? though you move fast for what you wear."

[Bard The 5th LW]

"You know Tsubasa, it ain't nice to call people names," Ichrou said at Tsubasa's accusation of him being an imbecile. He didn't really seem hurt though. At this point, he knew that the samurai walking away was the real Daisuke Kurama, but he didn't care at the moment. He'd have another chance.

He was about to make an advance when Kotone made some flash of light in front of his eyes. "Now that was pretty," he exclaimed, cackling at her attempt at intimidation. He did not flinch in the slightest at it.

"You seem to be a nothing but a walking firework show," he noted as she lashed out at the random man with a spear. This was going to be a great day!

"Hey don't ignore me ya' hypocrite," he shouted, "you call Kurama arrogant for ignoring you, but just shrug me off! That ain't nice miss, I'm going to have to force your attention!"

It was too late however, as the Spear man seemed to have a decent handle on the fight. "Arr," he grunted, "I'm too late. Guess I'm going to have to do what I normally do in this kind of situation. Break everything!"

Cackling like a maniac, Ichirou raised his arms into the air and charged forward at Kotone and the man with the spear. "COME ON SHOW ME WHAT YOU TWO CAN DO! MAKE IT WORTH PASSING OVER DAISUKE KURAMA!"

[Julford Hajime]

Ugh. The tiredness was just getting worse. What the hell kind of power was this? She'd loved to have it for herself. Still, more pressing matters needed to be attended to, like the man who despite claiming not wanting to fight, had sapped her strengthand then surrounded her in flames in a damn heartbeat. She hated hypocrites.

And then there was that huge roar, which she couldn't understand over the sound of the flames crackling so close to her and her general need to focus on the spear. Still, it was loud and pretty close. If she was going to deal with both, first thing she needed to do was-

UGH. Her mind was getting so slow and groggy that she'd just stood there as Yoshiro slammed her to the ground. The pain, if nothing else, had helped clear Kotone's mind for a moment to realize something; this was an unwinnable situation.

Reaching out much faster than she usually did, Kotone teleported herself five feet away towards town. The way everyone had been angled, it would put her directly behind gloveman while being off to the left of the spearman, and out of the sight of both, to boot. She began picking herself up, using her rod for support, as she looked around and finally noticed the village had become quiet. Really quiet. Had the spear-weilder done this to an entire village just to strike at her? She'd have to keep this in mind the next time they fought.

[Dracorion]

The woman vanished out of sight as soon as Yoshiro slammed her to the ground. He hoped he had managed to scare her away, but he didn't ignore the possibility that she was simply waiting for a chance to strike. Then a man wearing glowing gloves, one of the attackers, came charging through the flames at him. Yoshiro sidestepped him, and in an instant the wall of flames moved to trap the man. Inside, there were four fiery wolves circling him. There was a small hole in the flames though which Yoshiro could see the man's face.

"Surrender." He said coldly. "I won't harm you. Leave this place and never come back."

[Menarker]

Erayo switched his aura yet again now that the sword-woman had fled. He now targeted the one possessing the gloves, draining her arms, legs, heart, body and mind. If things continued as they did, the situation will naturally disperse in everyone's unwillingness to fight a losing battle.

[Bard The 5th LW]

Ichirou stumbled a bit when Kotone teleported from his view, and the wolves began to descend upon the area. What was happening here? He didn't know, but he wasn't leaving now.

"Surrender," Ichirou replied inquisitively, making eye contact with Yoshiro. His gold and red eyes gave off a maniacal look. "You think that just because I'm not the brightest tool in the world, you can beat me? Kill me even? That's funny! I'll tell you this! I've destroyed countless lives without ever thinking about it! Yours will be no different in excecution, just length of time it takes to accomplish!"

Ichirou then lunged straight at Yoshiro, bringing a powerful gloved arm down upon him. This was it! Thrill of the kill! The first blood that Ichirou lived for, and he intended to follow through. He could feel his arms becoming sluggish, but it mattered not to him, he had strength to make up for it. The impact would only be diminished a little bit, it would still be enough to injure Yoshiro. Slowing his mind made little difference to, as Ichirou rarely used it when he was on his combat high. He took after his father, after all.

[Raiden]

Kurama, meanwhile, had managed to make it over to the meeting area during all the fuss.

"Man, guys, I cannot even begin to tell you what was going on back in to-" That's when he noticed the fighting going on.

"...seriously, what is with people today."

[POS Industries]

Dead men don't sleep.

However, the fact that everyone around a particular dead man was asleep presented a predicament for him. He couldn't make an exit without being Captain Obvious of the HMS Heylookatmeoverheredoingstuff, but when one door closes, another opens. There was now no one awake to notice a corpse just laying out in the open. In fact, such a thing would blend in seamlessly with the slumbering masses.

And so, having abandoned his host shell for the moment, the ghost of Ochi Dai followed invisibly behind Kurama, eventually led all the way to what appeared to be a fascinating conspiratorial gathering of would-be heroes, or at least what should have been but it was just more loonies yelling and fighting each other.

[Dracorion]

Yoshiro brought Tetsukaki upwards, blocking Ichirou's strike with the shaft. Tetsukaki held, but Yoshiro staggered backward. Damn, that hurt. Even though he stopped the blow, the shock was substantial. This man had an insane amount of strength. Or maybe it was the gloves.

Either way, Yoshiro recovered quickly. He extended his arm, his palm facing the attacker, and a large blast of fire erupted from it. "I have no intention of dying, nor of killing you. But I will stop you from harming anyone."

[lazy man]

"...seriously, what is with people today," Suzume heard not far away from where he wasn't looking.

"Ha! Tell me about it!" he shouted rather loudly, turning around on what he considered his rock to see Kurama. Tossing Yojimbo's waterskin off into its owner's general direction (and not caring that he was in the middle of a fight) Suzume continued on about... well that didn't really matter now, did it. "Any idea why today of all days is like that? Because I honestly have no idea. I just kinda... well, fell here, honestly. Is there really anything wrong with that?"

[Menarker]

Erayo almost arched an eye... if it wasn't for the fact that demon who boosted incredible physical power were a dime a dozen. He himself could perhaps be counted as one. Anyhow, if forcing a weakness didn't do much... Then gifting the spear user with a gift of refreshment might be a sudden shock for the antagonizing brute.

Erayo diverted his aura, this time focusing everything on the pacificist warrior, practically enlightening his mind and reactions, his body feeling like it never had a better night sleep, well rested and full of spunk, step and energy.

[Bard The 5th LW]

"Well then hold still kill joy," Ichirou slurred as he lurched forward. He was moving a bit sluggishly now, but that wasn't going to stop him, he would fight the sleepiness and kill it like he would anything else. Violently. Oh yeah, he was also set on fire, that was an inconvenience. He did all he could do, he torte off the rags around his torso that had become alight. There were still some scattered flames around his torso, but Resilience was helping him ignore the burns that were around him.

"I hope you can forgive my patheticness today," he said as he swung a blow at Yoshiro. It missed, but the strenght could still be felt behind it, "I'm feeling under the weather today, and fire isn't helping.."

Alleviation was felt however when Erayo shifted his attention to Yoshiro. He was still a bit lethargic, but his strength was returning. "It appears that I'm just a quick healer though," he said, increasingly more energetically, "so lets continue our game." He wasn't in perfect shape to focus or lift his arms at the moment, so he began to flail his arms wildly as he approach Yoshiro, dropping powerfully at the man. It wouldn't take too long for him to get full-power again, and this wimp would be in for a beating when he was fighting fit. Although, it would be best if he could kill the guy quick, so he doesn't suffer any lasting effects on the fire.

[PhoenixFlame]

*thump, thump, thump*

Koyuki surveyed the din and chaos that unfolded beneath her as she ran down the hillside, picking up an easy burst of momentum thanks to gravity's assistance. There were flames, burning buildings, destroyed walls, chaos, sleeping bodies and corpses strewn across the street and accompanying buildings, which if the historical records of Daisuke Tama were to be believed, was a perfectly auspicious sign. No doubt, this man 'Kurama' would share his ancestor's love of sake, carry a blade, and be dressed without signification to draw little attention to himself.

With these clues, it was not hard to suspect the man broken away from the group as being the most likely candidate. This put all the chaos and destruction in his wake, where it belonged. Koyuki diverted her run to intercept him, stalling her momentum to a jog and then a dignified walk as her hill sloped to the flat grass alongside the road. Pulling her Hachigame from her sash, she slid the metal headband over her forehead, pulling the paired phoenix feathers through her hair to arc over her head in a regal fashion.

Still approaching Kurama at a powerwalk, she does not hail him nor speak first.

[PyrosNine]

"....don't have big nose." Pyros mumbled, trying to thank his benefactor but feeling a little too worse for the wear to get the words out, especially since he'd had always wondered if he was a Tengu, and this train of thought was crowding out the more useful ones, like if he'd wind up once again paying for full room and board for strangers at his own expense. He tended to be a sucker for charity, especially when it came to being charitable to people who seriously did not need it.

There seemed to be a commotion in town, and boy, did Pyros feel....zzzzzz

[Arcanum]

"Hey don't look at me," Izuko said in defense of himself as Kurama arrived. "I wanted to restrain the man and figure out why he was here before Yojimbo decided to attack. Oh excuse me for a second."

Izuko, having kept his eyes on the fight despite talking to Kurama, finally saw his opening as the two opponents separated briefly. He spun Shirogane's weight in a quick circle before launching it at the ground. The weight bounced off the ground and was now on a direct course for the hand holding Katashi's sword.

[DanteFalcon]

Motou finally entered, following the rather obvious route that Ichirou had taken, rather made, through the wall. It seemed he had already rushed into things and was engaged. This presented him with a unique situation. He could attempt to sneak attack the engaged opponent. Or he could rush into things.

It was a choice that needed no real thought. His opponents may not get time to suffer if he did a sneak attack.

That being said Motou rushed toward Yoshiro, gauntlets raised to guard his upper body and face, parting his cloak enough to show his black garments underneath. He wouldn't be at the enemy immediately but it wouldn't take him long to cover the distance. He would enjoy the fight if nothing else. And he wanted some blood to drink.

[Dracorion]

Yoshiro dodged Ichirou's flailing arms and jumped back a few feet, surveying the area. The crowd was still asleep. He was being assailed by a superstrong giant. And a shadowy figure had appeared from nowhere and rushed him. Very very bad. And if he kept fighting here, there was a good chance he would burn down the whole village.

This next trick would take some effort. Luckily, Yoshiro was feeling refreshed like he just woke from a good night's sleep. He closed his eyes for a second, concentrating, then swung Tetsukaki at nothing in particular. At once, walls of fire shot up all around him and his two opponents. Ichirou and Motou found themselves in separate parts of a maze made out of a flames. A simple, short maze leading to a forest outside the village, with arrows captioned "COME AND GET ME" pointing the right way.

At the end of the maze, inside the forest, waited Yoshiro. Hopefully, the enemies would follow him, and he could hopefully get them to surrender, or failing that confront them here away from innocents.

[Geminex]

Tensuo had got word of battle taking place several miles south of his current hideout, and hadn't hesitated. He knew that the time had come that they had prepared for, and he had already set things in motion. Mercenaries were gathering, scouts were riding out... and assassins should, hopefully start converging soon. Nothing high-quality yet, but the skilled ones had long waiting lists. It'd take some time until he got a response from them, but they'd respond eventually. For now, he would wait, and coordinate, and maybe lend a hand himself.

He'd arrived on the outskirts of the village quickly enough, but the afternoon sunlight limited what he could do quite strongly. Scouts reported a variety of engagements, word was that even the Vile Blade-bearer himself was involved!
But alas, shadows were his territory. Not the light of day.

Though now one of their foes, a fire-wielding half-demon had entered the forest. And if there was one thing forests had in abundance, other than trees, it was convenient shadows. He felt himself meld with them as he entered the forest, felt himself becoming immaterial, unseeable, and very, very quick. And now, where was that half-demon?

[Bard The 5th LW]

"Ahh hey there pal," Ichirou said to Motou during his attack on Yoshiro. "Good to see you, don't worry, I'm in a good mood. Willing to share some of the bloodshed. That's just assuming it lasts long enough however.."

The battle was likely approaching its end. The man obviously wanted to move the battlefield, and Ichirou frankly never cared for that. He was simply going to charge and take him out.

"Just get a medic on hold," Ichirou said to Motou as he patted the flames off his shoulder and chest. He couldn't let Yoshiro get too far away, so he had to act quickly.

"AHHH AHHHH AHAHAHHA," was the noise that resounded as Ichirou made a mad rush through the fire labyrinth. He wasn't taking any turns nor was he stopping, he was taking the brunt of the fires as he charged through. He apparently had a thing for self-immolation. He didn't show it through his actions, but he was in bad shape. The lack of pain was all that was keeping him forwards, seeing as how small fires were starting on his back and shoulders. His gauntlets were increasing in heat to, and his hair was singed with embers.

When Ichirou finally broke through the walls of fire, he looked like something straight outta Hell. He was on fire and giggling like a maniac when he rushed at Yoshiro, raising a burnt arm to deliver a punch. He could slowly feel Resilience running out, and his injuries would catch up within the hour. It was Yoshiro or Ichirou at this point, do or die.

[Astral Harmony]

Tsubasa shrugged. There was just too much commotion and nothing was going to be resolved on either side. So, with only a small sigh, Tsubasa made her exit. "When you're done with that one, feel free to join me, would you?" she called down to the other Team Rocket members. "I'm going to go keep an eye on Dai-sama."

Know your enemy. Daisuke Kurama had allies for sure. Tsubasa was eager to learn who they all were. So, not willing to add to combat that already seemed one-sided and a certain victory, the demon kunoichi in the white kimono exited the village, not exactly keeping Kurama in her sight, but tracking him from a distance. There just wasn't enough hiding places to track him from a closer distance.

[DanteFalcon]

Motou flinched with the fire and actually did take the turns, not being the berserker that Ichirou was but also was not backing down. He ran through the rather simple maze and followed Ichirou out towards the forest.

"You're going to get us both killed at this rate." Despite saying this he was clearly undaunted and was more than ready to enjoy this fight. And if Ichirou got too close to death he'd serve as a nice blood font for Motou.

[Dracorion]

Yoshiro easily dodged Ichirou's half-assed punch, and jumped back a few paces, setting a distance between himself and his attackers. "That is enough." He said angrily, and suddenly the flames on Ichirou engulfed him completely. But they extinguished just as quickly as they had spread, as Yoshiro caught his temper. "Leave this place. And leave me alone." He said calmly, now holding Tetsukaki perpendicular to the ground.

[Geminex]

"Leave this place. And leave me alone."

Tensuo smiled. However steely his voice, and threatening his manner had been, he really didn't feel like it. And now he had extinguished his fires, inviting the shadows back, and turned his back to him. Tensuo was all for picking his battles, and not being hasty, but this was about as good an opportunity as he was going to get. Still, no need to be hasty... the dagger could wait. For now...

His crossbow was already drawn, and, as he sped from shadow to shadow, he stopped a few meters away, just momentarily, took brief aim, and fired off the steel bolt, disappearing in the darkness again, already reloading, before he it had even struck.

[Menarker]

Erayo sighed as everyone left town. And another figure jumped in. At this rate, it would never finish.

The flames had been snuffed out by the user's own will, so the tall broad humanoid demon, who could easily resemble a bear, picked himself from his resting place, yawned heavily with a large stretching motion and charged toward the forest, his body never getting fatigued or weak as the Demon of Slumber and thus of rest. He disliked getting personally involved, but he hated destructive demons and busy-bodies even more. He'd never get any sleep.

Erayo radiated his aura outwardly so that himself and the spear user got the benefits and everything and everyone else felt tired and drained. Selecting out of all the targets involved, he focused on Motou as he dashed with impressive base speed and power, swiping his large powerful arms toward the demon's chest with the force of the bear, his favorite animal. Typical for someone who loves hibernating, really.

[DanteFalcon]

Motou felt a sudden state of lethargy, eyes closing slightly and movements slowing. Very atypical of him. Possibly some other effect at work. He didn't really have time to consider though as apparently a rather large and mostly hairless bear was attacking him.

Correction: A rather large and very stupid hairless bear.

Who or whatever it was had taken swipes at his chest. The area he was currently protecting with metal, spiked gauntlets. He didn't need to be fully awake or aware to slightly reposition his arms so the spikes would block and injure his opponents arms or hands.

[Dauntasa]

Katashi was annoyed. Generally, he hit people and then they died. This was not the case with his current opponent. And there was Kurama. From what he had been told about the man, that was a fight he could only win one on one. That not being an option, it was time to beat a retreat. As he turned to find an opening, he noticed a large metal object attached to a chain coming for him. Catching it in one hand, he swung it around at Yojimbo, who dived flat to avoid it. Then he sent it flying back at Izuko, and, sensing an oppurtunity, took off the way he came.

[Menarker]

Erayo noticed the spiked glove but paid no heed as he threw his entire body weight into his blow, impacting the gauntlet and the chest that laid behind it. That heavy impact would wind him, causing him to lose even more strength and focus to the draining aura that he emitted. The bear's strength knocked the demon some distance back, seperating Motou from his partner's side. His paw was certainly bleeding, but his thick body fat and muscle combined with his domain of rest eased whatever pain he would feel. He continued to assert his aura, as his gaze fixed on the retard who started the entire commotion.

"Tedious. Absolutely tedious."

[krogothwolf]

Dove and rolled under the flying chain and came up to his feat in mere later, but by then the man was already turning tail and running with a decent lead. He could catch the slower man in his heavy armour but it could also lead into a trap so he let him go and walked back towards the others, sheathing both his blades as he went.

"I was trying to exhaust him," Yojimbo said to Izuko, "The last time we tried to restrain a fresh person it nearly killed us."

He then nodded to Kurama and bent over and picked up his water skin. Only to be surprised with how much the man had drunk from it. He took a gulp and reattached it. Scanning the area quickly to check to see if there were anymore surprises heading their way. Satisfied there wasn't any for now he relaxed slightly, but was still on his guard.

"Feeling a bit better friend?" He asked to the guy before turning back to Kurama, "So, what have you called us in for anyways? Any good leads on what we're looking for? And what craziness are you talking about?"

[Raiden]

"Well, I called you all in because I was hoping we could get a move on collecting the pieces today. Well,technically for all of you to get a move on today. I have a plan for collection, but most of it involves you all staying together as a group while I go see to another one of the parts." He spoke over at Yojimbo as well as the rest of the group.

"I thought it'd be fine if we all stayed together, but assassination attempts have been getting more common...and a lot less subtle, by the way. If we break apart for a while, it raises the chances of you all gathering some of the pieces without being too harassed, hopefully."

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo nodded at what Kurama had said and thought for a minute then looked at the new guy.

"Well friend, looks like you've been drafted into helping save the world." He said with a wide grin. Then turned back to Kurama with a more serious expression on his face as he thought of what next to ask.

"Do you require a body guard? I'm assuming now that the little exchange I had with the man out here was far from being a coincidence. I know you can handle yourself against all kinds," Yojimbo said politely, "Obviously they know about this and if they come after you in mass even you might have difficulties with that."

He knew Kurama would say no, but he had to ask anyways.

[Overcast]

"Interesting group aren't they?"

Ieyasu had caught Tsubasa taking the same method he had been doing for a while. The group seemed to be just as hostile and foolish as half the people he had to associate himself with. Why else would they be already halfway to killing each other when there wasn't another servant(for lack of a better word) of Talkatz nearby besides those skulking in the background?

He poured out another cup of tea in amusement. Sipping silently, not a reason to ready himself to attack yet. He would be waiting still for that perfect opportunity, because if he didn't...well than he was just wasting ammo.

[Dracorion]

Yoshiro was distracted by the sudden appearance of a large hairless bear attacking one of his enemies, when he felt a sharp pain in his back. "What..." Damn, more? Seriously? This was bad enough as is. And whoever his new opponent was, they seemed able to hide quite well.

Damnit. he thought, pulling the crossbow bolt out. He knew how to scare the enemies away, but it would not be at all pretty. He concentrated for a moment, then swung Tetsukaki. All around him, a massive wave of flames erupted, spreading out to all directions. His foes were engulfed in flames, and all the trees in a half-mile radius caught fire. Yoshiro sprinted past the burning wood, deeper into the forest. He would let the fire spread a bit, scaring away the violent bastards, before putting it out. He purposefully kept the flames from spreading in the direction of the village.

[PhoenixFlame]

"Well, I called you all in because I was hoping we could get a move on collecting the pieces today."

Without a doubt, that man had identified himself. Koyuki continued to walk towards him, suprised that his numerous bodyguards had made no attempt to force her to identify herself, nor attack. Perhaps they simply thought she was one of them. So much the better! Ten feet, six, four...

*clap*

Koyuki gently clapped her left hand over the back of Kurama's left shoulder, and leaned her mouth into his right ear.

"Hello, Daisuke-san. Be a good boy, call off your friends and accept a duel like a true gentleman."

[Steel Shadow]

"Alright. I apologise for me lateness. However, was that really necessary to tear up the area so badly?" Kita asked sternly, striding into the meeting area. After a short glance around, he apparently decided that he didn't need to take any steps at the moment. “So much energy for such an early hour. Please do have some respect for the ones living in the town. I'm sure they would appreciate your consideration if you lowered your voices.” He gave everyone a repoachful look, even though only one eye showed from under his rather erratic fringe of hair. He held his walking stick easily at his side, even though he didn't walk with a limp, and in fact barely made a sound when moving one foot before another.

Then he noticed the mood of the people gathered there. “What? Did I miss something?” His dull white kimono rustled pointlessly in the wind.

[Raiden]

Kurama's hair stood on end. Normally a woman whispering sweet nothings into his ear was a good thing, but considering there was the smell of something...dead...in her breath, it was likely not going to end in a fun time.

"Lady, you must be the third...maybe fourth duel I've been challenged to today." His limbs and joints almost visibly loosened and relaxed. "And I haven't even had breakfast yet."

[PhoenixFlame]

"Out of stamina already, saviour?" Koyuki added, savoring the feel of panic in Kurama's voice and in his scent. Gently tightening her grip on the man's shoulder, she brought her forefinger and thumb up to the base of his neck.

"You see, In my estimation, you simply have no other alternative."

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo looked shocked. He had taken the girl by her pace and distant as Kurama's bodyguard during his fun times back in town. Obviously he was mistaken and shame ran through him for making a fool error. He had challenged the other because he figured he was a threat, the woman he had not figured a threat, in fact he hadn't even paid heed to her because she seemed so relax and at ease. He cursed himself for being so fooled.

His anger was boiling and there was nothing he could do at this moment, he wasn't even close enough that his quick reflexes could help, maybe if he inched closer...he caught the look the lady gave him, if he moved harm would befall Kurama. He looked over at Sulran. Perhaps a shot from his gun would be quicker then her. If it was he could move in fast enough to engage her. Blast what to do..

"My Lady," Yojimbo said pleasantly, "Surely there could be another way to resolve this. Perhaps you can tell us what this is all about. Sometimes Kurama can be forgetful with women's names after all"

Maybe if he can keep her talking, distract her or something, Then perhaps Jade could get her away. The way she was moving her hands did not sit well with Yojimbo, something definitely was amiss.

[Raiden]

"Well it's obvious, Yojimbo. This woman, demon, whatever wants me head." He smiled over at Yojimbo, then looked back over at Koyuki.

"And I'm afraid I have to disagree. There are several alternatives. I could piss myself. I could faint. I could piss myself and then faint. I could run. Lot of options, though not many of them good or ending with me in dry pants. So I suppose I must accept in order to keep my pants dry. Though you are rather close for a duel to start." He shifted his hip, letting the handle of the Raigaki rub against her side.

[Bard The 5th LW]

Things were getting intense now. Things were flying by for the half-demon. This was the end. He was almost completely on fire at this point. In a flash, instinct took over.

'Kill the source!'

With that one thought in his head, the immolated half-breed darted straight at Yoshiro. Yoshiro's plan may have been to make Ichirou run off, but the effect was just the opposite. Ichirou's instinct told him that if he killed the guy creating the fire, it would stop, and he would be safe.

There were no restraints or half-assery about it this time. Using the last of his combat high, Ichirou erased as much pain as possible. In a single moment, he shot a gloved fist straight at Yoshiro's gut with incredible speed.

[PhoenixFlame]

"Surely there could be another-"

"Silence." The calmly spoken word carried to everyone in the meeting, radiating the authority of a person whom did not suffer interruption. She felt Kurama's body squirm next to her, and while she felt and appeared in control of the situation, she held no illusions. These were not honorable people, and they would not respect her request nor would they idly stand by while she spoke. Gears turned with a sound louder than the shrillest music.

"I take your silence as tacit approval, Daisuke." Koyuki responded, releasing her grip and reflexively stepping backwards as the handle of the Raigaki glanced agaisnt her abdominal guard. She took a long step back, and followed it up with a second, raising her right hand to her back to flash-draw the Angetsu Shouten overhead, the obsidian blade glittering in the sun as it clicked free of its long saya.

"You will not interfere." Koyuki spoke dryly to those beyond Kurama, "This is not offered twice."

[Raiden]

"So angry. And she completely ignored my wit. That's the saddest part." He let out a deep breath, his body relaxing even more. His hands hung limply, his knees were bent, with his back leaning slightly.

"You know, that anger's not healthy for you."

[Steel Shadow]

Kita shrugged and moved over to the others. "Kurama can handle himself. I will not interfere in your little duel." It was true, too, so far as he knew. Besides, it didn't seem she was leaving them much choice in the matter.

He stopped next to Yojimbo and planted his staff down upright in the ground, leaning against it. "You look tense. Have some faith in our friend, he can get out of his situation, I am sure." He paused and watched Koyuki. "If you can't find it within yourself to do so, at least wait and observe her tactics. We have no idea what she is capable of, yet." The woman was worrying, certainly. There were not many who got so close. And she hadn't killed him outright when shehad the chance. Kita was an honourable man, but he bore no illusions about anyone else. This woman was up to something. Was there somethign he was missing? If there was, there was little he could do about it now.

Kita's body seemed to relax, though his eyes remained as sharp as ever, watching everyone around him like a hawk. After a moment, he looked back to Yojimbo with a curious look on his face. "So what did I miss, anyway?"

[krogothwolf]

"You look tense. Have some faith in our friend, he can get out of his situation, I am sure. If you can't find it within yourself to do so, at least wait and observe her tactics. We have no idea what she is capable of, yet."

"I have faith in him, it is just these foolish things are delaying us more then anything." Yojimbo said to Kita, "We have worked to be done. Sorry friend, I am impatient at times and Kurama is to important to be wasted on a petty duel with a demon."

He looked back at the two and shook his head, such waste and he had an strange feeling about these things. He had heard Kurama mention other craziness back towards town and was worried it would follow them here.

"So what did I miss, anyway?" Kita asked curiously

"Already we encountered one not to friendly man who seemed intent on disrupting this meeting, even knew about it. Crazy man over there fell from the sky and broke that tree. Poor tree, I'll remember it fondly." Yojimbo answered him. "And apparently the way Kurama came was even more excitement, I feel that the enemy is moving against us and we have little time to waste here, we should be on guard for anymore uninvited guests."

[Zero Hex]

*tink!* A single gold coin glittered in the air before landing in the middle of the fighters "I'm afraid I cannot accept your token of good will, mister swordsman, for it was granted to me through subterfuge" Yoshitsune was sitting in a rock close by, his hood peeled back to reveal a pair of very functional eyes and a friendly, if a bit odd grin "You must be a very interesting man to be able to gather so many followers and assasins in such close proximity. I would like to have a chat with you, if you manage to survive"

Reaching into his cloak, he pulled out his wineskin "To your success and to a honorable duel. Whatever happens, the Heavens will it so" he said loud and clear before taking a long sip "A warning to you, demon woman. Fight fairly or be killed".

[PhoenixFlame]

"You know, that anger's not healthy for you."

"The Daisuke line's sarcasm is legendary." Koyuki snorted, smiling back at the human, himself equally as arrogant as she.

"A warning to you, demon woman. Fight fairly or be killed."

"You say nothing new, waste no breath." She dipped her sword ahead and to her left, walking in a slow counter-clockwise circle around Kurama. The man was relaxed and limber, like a martial artist, yet to draw his blade, pinning him firmly in the Iaido category. It was time to deliver a strike not easily countered.

With a sudden lunge, Koyuki brought her trailing foot forward, stamped the ground and thrusted forward with her blade at Kurama's midsection, twisting her grip as she did so to bring the edge vertically, shifting fluidly into a rising cut follow-up using the leverage of both of her arms.

[batgirl]

((OOC: Geez I go to work and I get left soooo behind))

Jade had been watching the series of events unfold with a sharp eye. When Yojimbo had grabbed the fallen man, she had tensed. When Katashi had come in threatening, she had placed her hands on her swords and waited for a moment to strike. Then the man turned and ran, and Kurama had arrived and again Yojimbo took the lead, offering to be a bodyguard. Jade had thought in a similar pattern, though she thought that her experience with assassinations would make her a more suitable bodyguard. And then the demon showed up, it was all moving at the speed that Jade could run, fast.

She was getting ready to zip behind the demon unnoticed, but Kurama had agreed to the duel. She threw her hands up in frustration and leaned back against the tree. "Be done with this stench filled demon quickly Kurama, some of us have appointments to keep."

[rapter200]

“A duel, really. Do you expect us to believe that a fair fight is what will be had. This is the most ridiculous proposal I have ever heard.” Sulran spoke up ignoring Yoshitsune after staying in the back ground for a bit, he hated close quarters combat, but something this insane needed to be brought down quick. “How can a Demon be trusted in anyway, I am sorry but I can't not let this happen.” Sulran raised his oversized weapon of choice and pointed it at Koyuki. At this distance his advantage wouldn't be as great from far away but still he could easily fire off a few slugs. “Explain to me why does honor matter, honor gets you killed. I trust Kurama could easily dispatch you in any sort of duel. But he shouldn't have to give you a chance to injure him. You are in the midst of his allies and at least one of them doesn't need to move from his spot to help”

Demons are disgusting abominations, their very existence is an affront to nature and all of creation. They would use a man's honor against him. Honor though was meaningless and gets you nothing in the end. He just wished everyone saw it for what it was. Sadly most people would die for their honor, good for humanity.

“Think of it this way demon, a duel will only win you death. If you lose you die, if you win I will make sure you die. Your situation is quite lose lose” Sulran said with disgust in his voice. It was a mistake for this demon to come here.

But he was ignored, and there was nothing he could do about it. He would have to watch as his most powerful ally tempted death at the hands of some petty demon. Sulran kept his eyes trained on the demon. After holstering, if need be he could easily pull out and fire. “Remember you kill him and your dead to.”

[Krylo]

A lone figure sat at an elevated position some way from the small town, a sheathed blade sitting on the ground by his side, all the life around it withered and dying. He merely sat and watched and waited.

A dust rose from a building near the edge of town, and he waited. A bear cried in agony, and he waited. All the movement in the city stopped, and he waited. Fires burst out in and around the city and he waited. Loud claps that, if were a bit more experienced, he might recognize as gun shots rang out, and he waited.

Slowly he let out a small sigh, as he looked around his resting place. This was the place Lady Shimokaze had asked he and the other servants of the Dark Lord to wait. He was sure of it. So then, why, were none of them here? Even the Lady herself.

"They are late," he said aloud, to no one in particular, before allowing his gaze to trickle back down to the city. "It is unlike Lady Shimokaze..."

His eyes glanced down to the blade at his side, "Yes, I suppose they may be... but I was asked to wait. ... Hmmm... yes, he may... Yes, you are right, but the Lady's orders are absolute. ... Very well. We will move down to the city if the others do not arrive soon."

[Raiden]

Kurama's body remained limp and motionless even as the dark blade came slicing towards him. At the last moment the muscles in his leg tensed up and pushed off like a piston, his sandals scraping along the ground and leaving shallow trenches as his loose body dodged to the side. The momentum put him into a spin, his right hand whipping to the handle of his blade and bringing the Raigaki out in all its glory, the brilliant glowing blade searing through nearby shadows. The momentum kept him and the blade going, slicing upwards to the side of the still-thrusting Koyuki.

[Astral Harmony]

Tsubasa abandoned any kind of tracking she might as done when she saw that others were already going about it. Whatever. That wasn't nearly as important as what Tsubasa felt now.

A calling? A higher power? Tsubasa knew these for sure, and decided that the best thing to do was simply to answer it. After all, it wasn't like she was needed anywhere else.

Tsubasa found Kenikua by himself and approached him carefully so as not to anger him or put him on his guard. She didn't know him exactly, but in a way, she felt intimate with him, like some deep, primal connection that she neither could explain nor wanted to.

Tsubasa, wordless and respectful, stepped forward and sat down near him, keeping him in sight but not sure what to say to him. Maybe saying nothing was for the best.

[Mesden]

"Boy this place is loud," Ta mused outwardly to herself on the way to the congregation of the rest of Talkatz's force. While she enjoyed a good bar fight or, hell, any kind of fight, she couldn't help but feel embarrassed for the ridiculous brawl she had passed by that had somehow drug itself into the far off woods.

She barged into the domicile, expecting to be late and wanting to draw attention to her arrival, but only saw two figures sitting there quietly -- the ever talkative Tsubasa and the never talkative Kenikua. A bit confused at the lack of bodies present, she asked, "So, Talkatz's elite force has a very bad sense of time, or happen to be much smaller than I was told."

[Naqel]

Establishing an end to the fight between Yoshiro and Ichirou by sending the former to a nearby tree in a relatively unharmed state and evacuating the later away from fire.

Also establishing a position in the group.

A warrior dressed in black flew above San'jays head and stopped at a nearby tree, he didn't look badly hurt but there was no time to check that or finish him off. The snake demon was in a rush, for he has heard a familiar growl coming from within the flames.
"Akemi sssama." He said so softly as if whispering, when he finally approached the burnt and injured half-demon.
"I asssume you have been attacked by Kurama'sss alliesss, Massster." He took off his robe to use it as a fire blanket. "These cowardsss would have ssstood no chance against your might alone. They mussst have usssed sssome tricksss to weaken you, Massster. I sssensssed an aura being emitted." He continued as he aided his "Master" in putting down the small fires on his body.
"We need to get away from thisss fire. Kshshsss~" He advised the, now not aflame, battle hazed half-demon, as he pulled him by the arm towards what appeared to be a relatively safe path outside of the flames.

[PhoenixFlame]

The Raigaki flew free of its fetters as Koyuki twisted her sword into her upward slice, stepping away from Kurama's swing and turning the missed follow-up into a block with the flat of the Angetsu Shouten, as any proper lesser katana might, for fear of damaging its striking edge. The steel and obsidian blades ground together for an instant, showering purple sparks as Koyuki shoved her weight agaisnt his momentum, shunting the Raigaki past her.

The recoil from this attack brought her blade high and to the left of her head, but with ease, Koyuki twisted her body to make a low, wide reverse-spinning cut while simultaneously kicking backwards with her powerful legs, carrying her clear of the striking distance of her sword, seperating the two combatants. The so named 'New Moon Fading Cut' reset the battle's initiative while deterring pursuit.

She ignored the gunman.

"The Daisuke line's skill with Kenjutsu is legendary, but your Iaido is weak."

Spinning Angetsu Shouten behind her, Koyuki returned it to its sheathe.

[krogothwolf]

Keeping a weary eye on the surroundings as to not be to distracted with the duel itself. He looked over at each of the others who were watching the duel, he was also curious who the new stranger was but there was time for questions later.

“Remember you kill him and your dead to.” He heard Sulran say to the Demon.

"You know, considering she had Kurama in her grasp and challenged him to a duel, Honour dictates that avenging a death from a duel means you would have to challenge her to a duel yourself." Yojimbo mentioned as he watched the girl sheath her sword, "Impressive skills for one such as yourself, it's a shame you use it for the wrong side."

He then looked over at Kurama, he was wondering why he was being so sloppy with this opponent as she did not seem to be one to be taken lightly. Again he scanned the area around them, there was to much happening today not to be cautious right now.

[mauve]

SUMMARY: Oki "helps" Pyros, runs into Kurama and Company.

"Hmmm." Oki grunted, watching the winged man faint. "I suppose I could go back to my original plan of pickin' your pockets and leavin' you for dead.... Nah. This at least gives me an excuse to go down into the town. Who'd turn away a poor old lady and a wounded man? Er, tengu... Or whatever the heck you are. Sorry kid."

With an unusual display of strength from an old woman, Oki hefted the much taller man up over her shoulder as though he were made of paper.

"You can be a charitable little boy and repay me in food," she decided. "It's been ages since I had some decent gyoza."

The monkey demon prattled on to Pyros' unconscious form as she walked, systematically mapping out how the poor man should repay her "kindness" in terms of food, sake and money. It was probably a good thing that Pyros wasn't awake-- He'd probably wish Oki would have let him die in the mud.

Oki stopped suddenly, hearing the sounds of a fight coming from up ahead. She sniffed the air.

"Oho," she said. "We ain't the only demons around here, Tengu Boy. I wonder what's going on?"

It would have been smart to go around the battle, seeing as how she had no idea who was fighting, why they were doing so, and whether they were stronger than her. But Oki followed her own twisted brand of logic, which stated that the loser, whoever that might be, would either A) be dead and therefore fair game for robbing or B) be alive and disappointed, and searching for "mystical guidance" about how to earn back his/her honor. Fortuneteller Oki would be happy to provide that guidance for a fair price.

"I think we aught to say hello," Oki said. "You don't mind, do you?" Pyros remained unconscious. "Didn't think so."

She rounded the corner, coming upon the scene of a young man and strange woman dueling in the middle of the road. An assortment of shady-looking characters stood around, watching uneasily. Her eyes narrowed. That woman was a demon, and not one of the friendly variety. The monkey sniffed the air again. Wolf. Oki didn't like wolves.

"Hoo!" she said, wrinkling her nose. "What smells like a wet dog? Oh, begging your pardon, miss. Don't be offended by the ramblings of an old lady! Ha!"

She eyed the contestants. The wolf demon was powerful-- Oki could sense that. But this human she fought against.... There was definitely something unusual about him too. But would he be able to stand up to her? Either way, Oki didn't feel up to interrupting their fight and bringing their wrath upon herself. She might as well let them continue.

Oki sat cross legged on the side of the road, dumping Pyros on the grass next to her.

"Oh, don't mind me, children," she said. "I won't get in the way of your little fight, which is currently blocking my path. This poor boy here can wait for his medical attention, which I sure hope I have enough money to pay for." She wiped away a tear.

[Raiden]

Kurama's smile stayed on his face as the point of his blade aimed at Koyuki's direction. His grip was loose, the handle bumping into his palm as the weight of the blade tipped it downwards.

"Well, when one is drunk it's hard to pull things out." His whole body stayed relaxed and loose as he slowly circled the wolf demon. "Though are you now attempting to do a strike of your own, or simply given up?"

[Overcast]

Ieyasu didn't feel a thing. Perhaps it was his concentration, or maybe the feeling was only being broadcast to the demonic parties, but regardless he was far more interested in watching the heroes at work. He sat down again and laid out a little spread for himself. He was just about out of tea, which was a shame because he was hiding and it wasn't really a good idea to start up a fire when you were trying to hide.

So he tied up his tea drinking supplies and pulled off his bow. He slung the arrows into the ground and stood up placing his feet so his area of accuracy spread across the party completely. He breathed in nice and deep and stared across the group, both active in the fight and decided that there was someone he wanted to kill just a smidge more than Kurama.

Gunman. Skilless, artless, pathetic and lame. It took years of training for him to be able to kill in one shot with his weapon. You could give a gun to any child or peasant and they could kill. He hated the fools with a passion, and it was difficult for him to control himself really. He wanted to get his arrow knocked and destroy the creep utterly...but then he would lose this chance at watching Kurama wearing himself down, getting sloshed, and possibly even getting killed.

But he REALLY hated gunmen.

He sighed...there would be plenty of chances to chase him in the future. He grabbed an arrow, pointed his bow into the air and began to pull it back very slowly. He was the arrow. It was shot almost straight up, and he grabbed another. One off to the right of the gunman to ricochet off a tree. He grabbed one more. One going straight for the white of his eye.

Three arrows. Three trajectories. All timed to hit about the same time.

This was bound to be fun.

[Bard The 5th LW]

Ichirou's punch never made it to Yoshiro. He wasn't really sure why himself, he was too frenzied. Either way, Yoshiro gets to keep himself in one piece today. The lucky bastard narrowly avoided having the same fate as Kurama's wall.

He took notice of himself being taken away from the battlefield, and he recognized the voice as being that of the snake demon. He couldn't entirely recall his name though.

He opened his eyes to find that San'jay had taken him to a safe location and had gotten to work removing the fire. Ichirou forced an eye closed in pain. When you're the guy who can turn off injuries, burn marks begin to sting a whole lot more when they finally catch up with you.

He muttered a few scattered agreements and a thank you to the demon as he mulled over what just happened. He wasn't particularly angry at San'jay over something as trivial as pulling him out of a raging fire.

The man he fought though... he lived. This man had fought Ichirou and got away in one piece, alive.

"Ah... hah... ahahaahahahhahahaha!" Ichirou shouted, He was laughing like a maniac once again, despite being burnt and injured. "This is new," he said calming down. "Now.. I get to fight him again! I've never done that before! This is a happy day my friend!" That was Ichirou for you, even happy when he doesn't get the kill, because he is thrilled at the knowledge that he gets to try again some day.

[Dracorion]

Yoshiro was vaguely aware that the large man with the glowing gloves was following him as he made his escape. He was about to retaliate, when he was suddenly thrown against a tree by something. He recovered quickly and saw Ichirou being hurried to safety by a snake person. Was that the same one that fired the crossbow bolt at him? Except he didn't see a crossbow.

Regardless, Yoshiro got back up and pressed on. He began to slow down the fire's spread, and he would extinguish it completely soon. A good distance away from the flames, he sat leaning against a tree and closed his eyes, clearing his mind.

Yoshiro shut off everything from the outside world, save for subconsciously keeping the forest fire away from the village, and entered a state of absolute peace. The wound were the bolt hit began to close very slowly.

[Krylo]

Kenikua's eyes drifted to Tsubasa as she moved to sit near by, and then toward Ta as she walked forward and began, in her own way, lamenting the lack of punctuality on the part of the servants of Talkatz, much as Kenikua had been before.

The demon reached out quietly and lifted his sword from the ground, leaving a patch of dead rotting grass and bugs where it had sat, and placed it in his lap, with the pommel over his shoulder. It did not do to have the blade sitting unattended now that others were beginning to show.

Staring down at the city once more, the demon spoke, "So you each await Lady Shimokaze as well? Good... though Jinitami believes she may have foregone this meeting and is already amidst the chaos." Kenikua brushed one hand out at the town below, flames raging near it.

[PhoenixFlame]

"Heh." So Kurama wasn't stupid, was he? Surely, the man merely acted like he was to take advantage. No doubt he was looking for any attempt to disengage. "Don't be too confident, Daisuke-san."

Koyuki kept her hand on the handle of Angetsu Shouten, fingering the tsuba in anticipation that contact with the Raigaki had been sufficient to wake her sword's lesser kami. Pulling it free as she had done before, the blade glittered as it had previously, but halfway free the air around the blade hazed and unevenly bled into a white, flamelike aura. "Not optimal", Koyuki mused internally, "But will do."

Raising her left leg and holding the sword aloft with her right arm, she brought her left hand upwards to frame Kurama between her thumb and index finger. Perhaps... Perhaps the bystanders should have chosen a safer perch.

[Zero Hex]

Yoshitsune remained sitting atop the smooth rock, watching the match with the intense interest only those dedicating their lives to the arts of combat could, taking in every step, every thrust, every twist of the wrists and every swing of the blades. It was a most interesting fight, in his humble opinion.

As both fighters stepped away from eachother, he took hold of his wineskin and was moments away from taking a drink when he spotted something strange in the sky Not a demon of any kind, definitely not a bird either...AH! It's arrow, that's what it is...wait, an arrow?! A quick glance at the trajectory revealed the target as well.

Discarding his cloak and wineskin, Yoshitsune exploded from his sitting position with preternatural speed leaving behind a large cloud of dust and leaves as he dashed towards the gunman's side, delivering a gentle but firm punt that knocked the man to the floor and away from the arrows...oh crap there was more than one. Without even a second to spare, Yoshitsune's arms and legs began to emit an azure glow, his entire body almost blurring from the speed as he sidestepped to the right, smashing the straight shot down with his right hand, his left rising to catch the attack from above whilst his right leg shot upwards in a crescent arc, reducing the rebound arrow to splinters all in a single, fluid motion. Smiling like a child, Yoshitsune slowly returned his body to a normal position, almost as if he was trying to show off his physique. No, scratch that. He was definitely showing off his scarred, built body.

"Whoah! Those were some mighty good shots! You should be lucky I caught a glimpse of one of them, or else you'd be leaking all over the place" He dropped the intact arrow in front of Koyuki's feet "So this was your plan all long? Nah, the archer would've shot Kurama if it were"

[rapter200]

As Sulran fell to the ground after being pushed he wondered what the hell was going on, but when he saw that man who pushed him down actually saved his life from a fistful of arrows he was very grateful. There was a bowman somewhere nearby, and he hated bowman. Practitioners of a dying art, being replaced with guns. To be effective with a bow you needed to train for many years, but a child could kill with a gun. Though a child couldn't do it as well as he himself could.

When he got up he made sure to thank the man who stopped those hated arrows, and then quickly replaced his gun's current load with explosive ammunition. This bowman won't receive mercy from him. Sulran had no idea where this man was but that didn't matter to him. He was sure of the general area and that should be enough. Five angry blasts came out of his weapon, each aimed into the forest, nowhere in particular though. The bullets thuded into the trees and a few seconds later blew up, sending splinters and shards of what used to be tree everywhere.

[Raiden]

"Don't need to be confident when you're naturally handsome. And don't have dead meat breath." His blade glowed brighter still as his the kanji on the bottom of the blade became a deep red color. The arm of his sword hand began to strike like a whip, back and forth in three strikes that were nowhere near Koyuki. However, he had no intention of having his actual blade strike the demon, as three blades of solidified light came flying out of the whipping sword and flying to strike into Koyuki.

[PhoenixFlame]

Kurama began a reply attack as Koyuki launched hers, unmoving in confidence that her superior initiative would carry the day. The twin moon handguard of Angetsu Shouten rotated outwards to line the two crescents up, and illuminated the blue jade gem in the pentagonal formation. The white aura the blade had accumulated fluxed jaggedly like an arc of lightning, and she brought the sword down with a thunderous kiai.

Halfway down, the jagged energy gushed off the sword into a torrential wavelike arc, shattering agaisnt the ground before bouncing again towards Kurama at a waist-heighth. The energy tore through the quickly erected lightblades tearing towards Koyuki, but only their inside edges. This "Lightning Whip Smites the Water" mugen would bounce once more before guttering outward into an otherwise harmless concussive air pressure burst. Yet by then, it would be far past him.

In the aftermath, the exterior ends of Kurama's blades of light caught Koyuki's sleeves and hakama, tattering the fabric's trailing edges and clipping one of the feathers in her hachigane. Unpreturbed by the skin-deep wounds, Koyuki flicked her blade to her side, sending waste heat in the form of steam into a tiny cloud at her feet.

[Raiden]

Kurama grinned even wider as the bouncing stream of dark energy honed in on his midsection. The second kanji from the hilt on his blade began to glow a furious orange, and with almost no effort Kurama pushed upwards with his feet. Motes of light trailed in the air as the seemingly effortless gesture sent him flying up dozens of feet into the air, the searing hot energy skittering underneath to singe the hem of his pant legs and then sputter away harmlessly.

The motes of light dissipated after a few moments, his ascent slowing as he seemed to hover above the trees. Then his descent began, his body flipping to a head-first dive with the Raigaki pointed down beneath him, gravity pulling him down on top of Koyuki.

[PhoenixFlame]

Koyuki's head tilted back, eyes locked on the ascending Kurama as she unexpectedly shot skyward, taking him clear of her attack. She raised her blade to guard, watching as he shifted weight in midair to aim his descent.

"Impressive."

Changing strategies at the last second, she took the Angetsu Shouten in both hands and made a powerful crosswise-slash at just above her head level as Kurama descended, knocking the Raigaki and her own weapon aside with copious force as the samurai toppled down atop her, dropping to her knee in an attempt to shunt his momentum over her shoulder.

[Overcast]

Gunshots rang out in the forest, and Ieyasu was already on the move. They hit the trees without much an issue, but then the gunman showed that he was even more pathetic than he originally figured. The trees went boom. He rolled away from the debris and put his back up against the leftovers. He stuck the ground with a few arrows and peaked over to see where the gunman was. Still exactly where he was before...he slunk behind a still intact tree and breathed in deep.

He took his first arrow, concentration mounting as his mind followed the pathway of the projectile from where he was to where he wanted it to be. He took his stance and shot up again before shifting his stance left and right firing an arrow in both directions.

The two bounced from tree to tree with devastating precision before leaping out from the trees like an ambush for the gunman. The arrow above began to drop, the least obvious it was meant to hit him when he moved away from the first two.

He just hoped that damn busybody wouldn't interfere this time.

[Raiden]

Koyuki's swing knocked Kurama's Raigaki to the side, his grip tight and causing him to spin from the falling. His back struck against the dog demon's shoulder, continuing forward as he rolled down her back and onto the ground. His feet were the first to touch the soil, and a mix of the speed of the fall and his momentum kept him sliding further enough away from her to deny a counterstrike.

"Hmm. Quick reflexes at least. Very quick." His form was still loose and relaxed, his eyes half-lidded.

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo saw the stranger move and was impressed the old man could move so quicky. With his back to that way he had never seen the arrows coming. He was glad he wasn't the only one keeping an eye out. He drew his blades and cursed even more.

"Kurama, finish this damn thing quick," Yojimbo yelled out at him, "we don't have time to deal with this. The enemies already know we are here and we have things to do."

He span the surroundings and saw were Sulran was shooting at and stared at the location. He barely saw the 2 arrows coming from the side as they were fired. Blast it all, this was getting them nowhere fast.

"Arrows, beware from above." He shouted as he moved his twin tachi's moving at a flash and slicing the arrows in two. He scanned the area to follow the man if he made a move again. "How many of these bloody bastards are there?"

[lazy man]

"Well friend, looks like you've been drafted into helping save the world."

"Huh?" was Suzume's brief reply to that. And then his head seemed to break briefly as things went to hell around him. Koyuki fighting Kurama, energy blasts floating by him, arrows being shot near him... What the HELL had he fallen into?

"Seriously, what the HELL did I fall into?!" he yelled suddenly as Yojimbo cut the next set of arrows in twain. "Urgh, can someone just.... kill the bastard or something?! And if you can't I'll show you how it's done!"

Extending his hand out into Ieyasu's direction, although not quite sure of where he was exactly from not quite paying attention, a blue flame-like column rocketed out from Suzume's palm with intention for destruction. He turned around before hearing the gratifyingly large explosion, unsure of the results but smiling like an idiot.

"THAT is how it's done!" Suzume yelled, his eyes suddenly a bright blue like the color of his attack. And anyone who could see them would see eleven small flames swirling around him. Although the likelihood of someone seeing demon souls was rather low. "And oh man I hurt all over..."

(OOC: Overcast, I trust you won't take that head on like the coward you're playing. Glad I could provide some 'splosions, though!)

[Overcast]

EVERYTHING IS EXPLODING.

Seriously the thought that it might be a bit cliche would have passed his mind if he wasn't so pissed and scared out of his wits about the fact. By luck like everyone that had shot at him today the person had done it with an almost ludicrous lack of accuracy. Still the size of the explosion had shaken him. He tried to gather his wits about him and stood out of cover completely this one time as he stuck three arrows into the ground. He pulled each one up back to back like a wild dream and they flew at the flaming sword wielder, flame sprouter, and gunman in a straight shot. Radically accurate, they were meant to distract so none of them could slow him down as he slung his bow back over his body.

And away he went cursing under his breath with just about every word he could. He wasn't about to sacrifice his life holding them off like an idiot. If he wanted to see some sort of result he'd do them one better if he could lead them back to the town.

If he could he was sure that one good murderer who was far more keen about facing these kinds of odds head on would take his place, and he could sit in the back gathering his composure for that next big surprise.

[krogothwolf]

Holy Hell and Tarnasions, why the hell was everyone trying to blow up things. That new guy certainly packed a punch with whatever forces he possessed. He began to move forward towards the explosion when he saw the man pop out and start firing and an extreme pace. He was probably one of the faster bow users Yojimbo had ever seen.

Taking notice of where the arrows were going he knew he could only get to 2 of them as the one to Sulran was to far apart from the new guy. He figured he could warn Sulran and intercept the missile headed to him and falling man.

"Sulran, another arrow, dead ahead," Yojimbo shouted as he cut the arrow headed for him down the center then moved quickly, leaping backwards in 2 quick and large jumps he caught up with the arrow and slashed it in half.

"Good job friend," Yojimbo nodded to the new guy, he then spun on his heals and headed back up the hill, he could no longer see the man who had engaged them and he paused halfway there. Scanning the area. Damn, another one ran away.

"Keep an eye out for others!" Yojimbo shouted down to the others as he slowly backed down the hill again, keeping an eye out in case the guy had not ran away. He was not stupid enough to follow the guy to whatever trap he may have in waiting. This day was just getting crazier and crazier.

[Steel Shadow]

Kita had begun moving as soon as Yoshitsune caught the arrows. It had been an impressive feat, but Kita was far more worried about the archer taking shots at them. It was some comfort that they hadn't been aimed at Kurama, but that was likely only because the man was a moving target. Why Sulran had been targeted instead was a mystery, but there could have been any number of reasons for it. Not really that important an issue right now, anyway.

The dark haired warrior plucked his staff from the ground and jumped, hopping from branch to branch, climbing into the tree tops in seconds. He moved easily, only making contact with the tree bark when it was necessary, and flitting through the leaves like the wind. The arrows had come from...

*BOOM*

...Over there. Well, Sulran's approach to the problem had it's merits. Whether or not it worked however...

There! The archer appeared and shot once more. Skilful, but fortunately this time his allies were prepared.

*BOOM*

And had retaliated accordingly. Impressive, but not that accurate. Kita dashed through the trees quietly, trusting in the aftershock of the explosions to cover his approach. If the Archer got wind of him too soon he'd lose his advantage.

It seemed to work. Instead of noticing him, the archer shot off more arrows, then bolted. Kita frowned. A dirty, unprovoked sneak attack, and then running once the situation no longer favoured him. A sharp blade extended out of Hami no meiou, giving it the proper look of a Scythe. This coward deserved no mercy. He increased his pace, trying to catch up. Soon he was directly overhead.

With a leap and a tight flip, the warrior silently hooked his legs around the next overhanging branch and swung upside down, swinging Hami beneath him. As the failed Assasin ran underneath him, Hami's sharp and pointy blade rushed down and backwards, aiming solidly for the centre of his chest.

[Zero Hex]

Yoshitsune stood still, observing Sulran's magnificent handling of his massively oversized and singularly destructive weapon (maybe he's overcompensating?); Suzume's skill in materializing highly explosive waves of blue flame (definitely some anger issues there) and Yojimbo's feats of agility and skill with his blades which he guessed could match his own expertise in combat (...I got nothing), a wide grin plastered in his face despite the debris from the multiple explosions raining down on them. Even after years of living the life of a hermit and his master's pacifist teachings, his body could never forget the thrill of battle. Now, surrounded by more powerful people than he had ever met, his blood practically boiled with excitement as he felt himself return to his days of youth. It was...exhilarating.

"Don't worry gunman I got this!" he voiced in a tone way too cheery for someone putting his life at risk as he once again moved at extreme speeds, swiftly dashing towards the arrow meant for Sulran. He could almost see it moving in slow motion as he approached the moment of impact.

"Closer...clooooser...NOW!" he screamed out as he pivoted off his left foot, spinning out of the way of the arrow while catching it with his right hand. Without wasting a single motion Yoshitsune completed the spin and threw his arm forward, launching the arrow back to where it came from without breaking his run. Pretty soon he'd catch up with the sniper and show him how a true warrior fought...if he hadn't been killed already.

[batgirl]

Just when Jade thought she could relax a little and watch the duel, arrows came out of nowhere towards her new comrades. She was going to leap into action, speed was her thing after all, but it seemed like Sulran and the others had taken care of them. She was impressed, some of the people she knew little about had skills, and she was happy for that. She moved into a crouched position and waited for a glimpse of the enemy, ready to move to his position and stealthily slit his throat, but apparently her comrades favored big booms over anything else. As the man turned tail and ran from the energy blasts and explosions, she saw Yoshitsune run off after him, a foolhardy decision. He did have speed though, so she moved from her crouched position and ran after him, nothing but an orange blur. She caught up to him after a moment and skidded to a stop in front of him.

"A foolhardy venture. He is too well shielded by this forest and could easily attack again if we follow. He is retreating, and without the others you could be running into an ambush of many more than just him. It would be best to go back to the group and wait for that duel to end, I can assure you we will be seeing and fighting him again soon. You will get your chance."

((OOC: Had to change my text color since it was taken. This one might be too. I'm just gonna be revolving text colors aren't I?))

[Zero Hex]

Yoshitsune broke off his run, coming to a stop inches before the female ninja in front of him. Man was she a fast one. This day just kept getting better and better. "While it's flattering to have such a nice young lady worrying for my health, I'd worry about your friend who chased the archer before I did. I think he wielded a staff of some kind". Yoshitsune shrugged as he cracked his neck left and right "Come on, we should at least try to capture that guy before he has a chance to settle down. If you two are as skilled as the rest of your companions, then we should have no trouble at all, don't you agree?" he extended his fist towards her as a sign of trust. If she trusted him, she'd bump fists with him and then they'd give chase. If not, oh well, he'd have to go off on his own anyway. He was too excited to stop now.

[batgirl]

Jade looked at the fist, then back at the man, then back at the fist again. She then shrugged, very well, may as well get some action in today." She then extended her fist to him and bumped his. "You seem fast, I'll race you," she said, grinning before she sped off.

[Overcast]

He had caught the man early, but his bow was already slung over his body, and unless he took one complex stop to remove it he was essentially beyond shooting. Besides he wasn't in stance, and that was half of what made him so damn good. He was ready though when he came in for the attack. The scythe cleaved down, and Ieyasu slid down below it.

For the moment the two were one fluid motion passing by each other. A proper moment that he would remember for the good will of his memories. Then he spun around on the ground and faced the scyther's back.

He gripped his sword and gave a proper strike from sitting. Pure iaijutsu, a rising slash. The sword screamed as it felt itself exposed to the world like someone who was walked in on taking a bath. A proper person anyway. Out came the flash as it tried to keep anyone from seeing it in a panic. Energy flowed out with the high pitch screech and blasted the man away. The energy wasn't fatal unless he hit with the blade(and he was too far away for that) but it would hurt quite a bit.

The sword automatically shoved itself back into the scabbard, irritated for being so mistreated. It wouldn't be able to come out for a while, not until it let it's guard down again. Ieyasu was already on his feet though and pulled his bow off, not to fire this time but to be ready for someone catching up with him again.

He had no sword to stand on if they hit him again.

[Mesden]

"So, should we go investigate if that i-" Ta's brief inquiry was made even briefer by the sounds of exploding trees and dramatic fight scenes, "Oh goodie, I thought it was just a bunch of idiots throwing fire everywhere but it sounds like they can actually do things! Want to go and see if wolf-lady is in the mess? Sounds like her kind of scene, " Ta was optimistically banking on the two to follow her to what sounded like a very grandiose battle, but would leave with or without their accompaniment.

[Steel Shadow]

He missed. Damn. Kita kept up the momentum of his swing, twirling around the branch he'd anchored himself to so that he stood upright again. He looked down and met the eyes of his fortunate target for a moment, then noticed him reaching for a sheath. A sword? The warrior shifted his stance slightly, switching his mentality from preparing to dodge arrows or jump down to finish the job, to a more defensive mindset for whatever was coming. Something that size wouldn't be able to reach up here, would it? Not right out of the sheath, at least...

A nasty miscalculation on Kita's part, as it turned out. The blade screamed, it's attack slicing through the air even as the assassin pulled it free. "Woah!" Kita cried, dodging to the left, along the branch. Unfortunately he'd been prepared to block a sword strike, not avoid a ranged attack, and he wasn't quite fast enough. The blow caught his shoulder and sent him spinning off the branch. "Ooof!"

His fall was uncontrolled for only a moment, before he righted himself and reached out to snag another branch, swinging himself back to the tree tops. "Nasty trick there, eh Hami?" he muttered, grasping the scythe all the tighter while using his uninjured arm to check the damage. Some blood, but not as bad as he'd feared. "Good thing you've such a long reach. That probably would have hurt a lot more closer in."

Reassured the wound was superficial, Kita began to move once more, searching for the Assassin before they got too far away...

[Zero Hex]

Yoshitsune raced behind the swift woman, his feet barely touching the ground as he moved at what most people would consider breakneck speeds, lifting a trail of dust behind him. And yet it was not enough to outrun that girl. He could keep the distance between eachother from increasing and maybe even close in a bit, but never fully close the gap. "Hmmm, this just won't do" he commented to no one in particular as he took a massive leap, propelling off the strength of his legs and leaving a clear imprint of his sandals on the floor.

His momentum carried him a sizeable distance and placed him right above Kita's current position, his landing rocking the tree to it's core and threatening to snap off the branch he'd fallen in. "Why hello there" he called as he kept up with the moving warrior "My family name is Higashi, given name Yoshitsune and I will be helping you catch a spineless coward today. Any thoughts on how to approach this?"

[PhoenixFlame]

Kurama slid and rolled away, out of reach, but Koyuki wasn't about to let him take another breather and reset their tempo. Pivoting out of her crouch to face behind her, she lunged forward, drawing Angetsu Shouten into a full-circle overhead slice that cut through the air with the rapid sound of ringing crystal.

It was a very long sword.

[Arcanum]

Ever since the first man ran off Izuko had taken a rather lax approach to dealing with everything else that was happening. He was leaning against the tree, casually swinging Shirogane's weight back and forth, and occasionally in a small circle. He watched the scene unfold with a certain lack of interest that came from knowing that it was Kurama who was fighting, and that he had nothing to really worry about. He had considered for a very brief moment to go help deal with the other assailant, the one that felt the need to shoot arrows at their meeting place, but he gave up on the thought as everyone either retaliated with ranged attacks or dashed off after him with ridiculous speed. Besides, crowded forests only hampered his abilities.

He looked around at those who decided to stay back and either watch Kurama's duel or ensure that there was no more foul play. His eyes came to a rest on the stranger who had come tumbling out of the sky and, for a brief moment, he thought he caught a glimpse of a wisp of flame flicker above his shoulder. It was gone before he had even realized it was there, so he resigned that his eyes were playing tricks on him. Regardless, he now realized that nobody here had even given the man a proper hello, and with his latest display of talent, as well as a knack for surviving large falls, Izuko decided he might as well formally request the man to join their group. He walked over to Suzume's rock and sat down next to him.

"Hello friend," he said with a friendly smile. "Sorry about this mess that you landed yourself in. Still, you seem like you can hold your own and we can use all the help we can get. Would you be interested in helping prevent the return of the Demon King?"

[lazy man]

Izuko's offer didn't quite fall on deaf ears, but now that Suzume finally knew what was ACTUALLY going on the gears in his head were beginning to turn. It wasn't exactly hard to figure out a reason to join or not join, but only one reason for either side came up easily. If he joined, he'd be guaranteed entertainment for most of the journey with opponents like the one Kurama had been fighting. No doubt they could even be stronger. Of course, killing the demon king would probably bring an end to demons, which put Suzume out of a job and just made him another thug. Not to mention he wouldn't be able to blow shit up whenever he felt like it.

Big fight. Lose out on your job. BIG fight. Lose out on your job. BIG FIGHT. Lose out on your job. BIIIIIIIG FIGHT. Lose out on your job. FIIIIIIIIIIIGHT. BIIIIIIIG.

"Biiiiiiig fight, huh...?" Suzume muttered to himself, a small grin visible on his face. "Yeah, I like the sounds of that. Seems like it'd be fun!"

Suzume made like he was going to put his hand up, but froze for an instant and cringed. He still wasn't in the best shape after being thrown like that, but it wasn't stopping him from doing anything. Maybe if he got a bit of adrenaline flowing... but then he'd just hurt more later. Oh, choices!

"Yeah, I'm in..." he said impatiently, wanting to spring up and fight something but holding back because it'd just be a pain in the ass later. "Just, uh, gonna need a day or two to feel like I didn't just get crushed by a boulder. Name's Suzume, by the way. Demon hunter... er, ex-demon hunter? Eh, you get the idea. I kill things and I love doing it!"

[Raiden]

Kurama's sharp eyes noticed the shifting in the dog demon's weight, his calf muscles suddenly shifting from loose and relaxed to tight and tense as he pushed backwards and away, the blade of her sword missing him by inches. As he slid backwards his sword lashed out in an x-strike, the bottom kanji glowing red as two blades of light shot from his sword and flew towards Koyuki in an x-shape attack.

[Bard The 5th LW]

Ichirou was content to just sit back and let his wounds settle for the time being, but what with all of the explosions heard off in the distance, he was getting slowly impatient. They were having fun without him! This was an outrage!

"Well thanks for the help friend," Ichirou said, as he refitted his gauntlets over his arms, "but I think I'm in good enough shape to go out and play some more."

Fighting the stinging pain left over his torso from the burns, Ichirou slowly raised himself from the ground and began moving off in the direction of the conflict. "You can come to," he said to San'jay as he started to pick up on speed. He was far from out of this conflict!

[Naqel]

"Yesss my massster."
The snake said, while internally discontent that his "master" wasn't someone with a stronger developed sense of self preservation. He could try to convince Ichirou how a great strategist would perform a recon prior to engaging any combat, but then again having him do the dirty job was the reason he went to Kurama's house/hideout while San'jay stayed behind to watch it turn into a forest fire.

In any case, making sure his "master" survives long enough to have his body stale Kurama's sword while he delivers a lethal bite(or seven) was a priority, so he followed as soon as an offer was made.

[Arhra]

Suzeka Toshi walked down the halls of his ancestral home, striving to keep his face expressionless. A worried frown tugged at his brows and the corners of his mouth.

Masumi was leaving.

They needed her here. He needed her here.

Had it only been a month ago that she'd arrived? He did not know what they would have done without her.

Before she had come into their lives, disease had. A curse had descended upon their house, robbing them of health and strength. Even those who were still able to leave their beds were listless and hollow eyed. At night, the house had creaked and groaned like an old man crying out in his sleep and fire stalked the halls. Whatever evil had taken root here was a powerful one.

Many of the servants fled and he had sent a retainer for an exorcist but the man had never returned.

And then Masumi had come.

The priestess was strong and beautiful and wise. She'd brought them back from the very brink of despair, tending to the sick and tirelessly patrolling the grounds to ward off evil influence. Their nights had been quiet again.

He slid open the door in front of him and stepped through.

It was a pleasant bedroom, the door partially open to let light and the gurgling of water come in from the courtyard outside. Masumi was inside, kneeling and humming a simple tune under her breath. Next to her, Toshi's sister lay on a bed mat, like a little doll. She was the only person who had not woken up. Her hair was spread out around her. The priestess had been combing it.

She looked up at the sound of the door opening, amber eyes so dark they were like deep, reflecting pools. "Lord Suzeka, you sister is well today. I'm sure she will wake up any day now."

Once again, Toshi wished his father hadn't passed away. The old man had children late in life and Toshi felt too young and inexperienced to be master of the house. Uncertain in front of this poised and elegant creature in front of him.

"Must you really go?" he blurted.

The priestess smiled softly, easing his embarrassment and inclined her head deferentially.

"Lord Suzeka, I have consulted every means of divination open to me and it is unquestionable. There is an evil force moving through the world once more and I must find the one who seeks to confront it. I am thankful for every kindness you have shown me but I must leave."

She unfolded her long, graceful limbs and rose to her feet.

"I have given careful instructions to Mize." Masumi said. "She will be able to care for your sister."

"But she won't be you." Toshi said. He immediately regretted it; he'd sounded like a petulant child.

The faintest blush crept into Masumi's cheeks. "This person is honoured that you think so much of her meager talents."

Suddenly gallant, Toshi plunged on before he lost his nerve. "No, ever since the day I met you, Masumi, I've known. You're the kindest, most beautiful woman I've ever met. If you could stay just one more day, just one more hour, I would be the happiest man to have lived."

Masumi's smile was like the sun rising. They embraced.

There was a sudden pain in Toshi's back. He stumbled backwards, feet giving out and falling to the ground.

Masumi looked down at him, the same expression on her face and a bloodied dagger in her hand. Ghostly fires blossomed to either side of her.

"Poor Toshi, does it hurt you to know you were so deceived?" she asked, brushing a hand through her long, black hair as cat-like ears emerged.

"Do not worry." she purred as he struggled to speak. "You will not die alone."

The doors and windows of the house slid shut, a phantasmal barrier sealing them. Fire spread from her ghostly flames as they licked the walls. They wandered away from her, passing through the walls and deeper into the house.

Toshi's sister rose to her feet like a marionette pulled by strings and followed Masumi into the courtyard in the middle of the house.

"You're so very young, Sakane." Masumi told the girl, stroking a cheek. "You'll be so very pretty when you're older." She licked her lips. "I would have liked to stay to see that but the world is an unkind place and so I must leave. It was wonderful while it lasted."

The fires were rising and the great house was sealed shut. "I will give you a little miracle." she told Sakane, spiritual chains unravelling to lay her on the ground. "You will live today, when so many others will die."

She brushed back the girl hair and kissed her forehead. Over the crackle of flames came shouts of panic.

"We'll meet again someday, I'm sure." Masumi said. She turned and walked into the burning house.

* * *

There was a hill outside the town. Three figures waited there.

One was a thin man, in a tattered hakama and straw hat. His hair was loose, hanging down his back. He sat with his legs crossed, a sword in his lap with the pommel resting on its shoulder. Light seemed wary of the blade, drawn into its grip.

The other two were women. One sat near him, pale skinned and her white hair long and fine. Her red eyes were dull and lifeless. She wore a white yukata, much shorter than the norm and tied with a red bow.

The last was standing and impatient for battle. Her hair was as black as the glossy armour she wore, entire body sleeved in the shadowy carapace. Enthused by the distant explosions and rising plume of smoke, she was ready to head off.

A fourth figure crested the hill, a wide, conical hat on her head and a parasol tucked under one arm. A black and gold kimono clung to her figure, cinched in at the waist by a golden obi.

"That is a wondrous sword you possess, samurai." Masumi said to Kenikua. "May I see it?"

[Bard The 5th LW]

Ichirou chose to blindly trek off to the woods were the fighting was going on. This was unfortunate for Sulran, as the half-demon somehow managed to show up right behind the unfortunate gun-man.

Like something out of a horror movie, Ichirou grabbed Sulrand by the back of his neck and pulled him back into the shroud od trees. Before Sulran could fight back, Ichirou slammed his head into a nearby tree, knocking him unconscious. Ichirou ducked down to see the damage he had done, and noticed he failed to kill the gunman. Normally, he would have followed through and finished him, but he was so overtaken by the thrill of leaving survivors. Instead, he satisfied himself by taking Sulrans cloak, seeing as he had no shirt. The man would have another pair, and the look on his face would be priceless if they ever met again. Why didn't he do anything about the gun? Who knows, he is insane after all.

So wearing his newly stolen cloak, he walked out upon the scene of battle. "Hey everyone," he said waving a hand around, "whats going on here?"

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo noticed from the corner of his eye the thing move to grab Sulran and was moving incredibly fast. He had warned him about things attacking him and he had even been a target, why would he stand with his back to a tree. With most of the team chasing after the bowman the guardians were limited now and he was not going to let the damn thing interrupt the duel though.

He was closing in on the trees when the thing stepped out into the open, wearing Sulran's cloak. Damn looters! Yojimbo thought as he was closing quickly on the thing.

"Hey everyone, whats going on here?" The thing said wazing its arm around like it was greeting people. What crazy thing were they fighting now.

Yojimbo didn't bother answering him, instead he came up beside him and slashed his twin swords at him both going up sideways from the opposite in a crossing slash at his side. One a blazing fire and the other glittering in the sun.

[Naqel]

Noticing the samurai coming at his "master" the snake demon dashed from behind the trees, a bit to the side so as to get a better view at the attacking swordsman, and launched a short stream of his blinding venom at his face. Even if the samurai could see the attack, the momentum would most likely still have his face caught up in the sprayed toxin. Without even checking the result of his action San'jay vanished back behind the tree line immediately.

[Bard The 5th LW]

"Ooh you guys are so quick to answer," Ichirou said gleefully as Yojimbo came at him. Sulran's cloak seemed to serve a better purpose, it hid Ichirou's gauntlets. Casually, the half-demon lifted both arms and let the swords take a strike at them. Yojimbo wasn't the only one with otherworldly strength. His arms were definitely hurt by the impact of the blades, but they failed to cut him due the armor.

Ichirou also took into account San'jay's venom that was being shot out, and knew he would have an upper hand. Immediately, he shot his hands outwards and grabbed the blades of the swords. Once he felt his hands were secure enough on the sword, he began to lift upwards. His hope was that he would be able to take at least one of the swords and throw them away. It was just a battle of who was stronger now, and seeing as how Ichirou was actually using his arms, and San'jay was assisting the attack, Ichirou was likely to get some sort of victory.

[krogothwolf]

The guy grabbed his blades and lifted them upwards. Yojimbo also saw the venom sprayed towards him. He grinned as he knew the answer to this combo. He decided to go with the flow. Twisting his body around he ran up the things chest, the venom spray destroy a bit of his clothing and stung a little but that was about it. He then threw a vicous kick at the things head. Then using his speed, reflexes and powerful strength, he spring boarded off of his chest with his other leg, twisting around quickly so that he managed to pull his swords free. He landed and rolled to his feet facing the creature.

He grinned at the thing and then brought his swords up. One angled in front of him and one off to the side. If he was going to have a little helper in the forest he would wait for him here, confident his speed would be able to carry the day against such a thing.

"Your move," He said quietly to himself as he watched the thing, a large smile sprayed across his lips.

[Steel Shadow]

"Why hello there" Kita looked up as Yoshitsune bounded into the tree tops. Impressive jump. "My family name is Higashi, given name Yoshitsune and I will be helping you catch a spineless coward today. Any thoughts on how to approach this?"

"The Depends, Higashi. Can you find the fool?" Kita considered how trustworthy his newfound ally likely was, and while he didn't exactly let his grip on Hami relax, but did allow himself to resume looking for the assassin. "I got a good look at him, but he had some kind of enchanted blade. The blast reached me up in the tree tops." He shifted his injured shoulder, indicating it with a slight tip of his head. "Good lesson in humility. I will not underestimate my foe again. But in the meantime, not too sure where he's gotten too..."

Kita bounded off into the next clump of trees, looking for any sign of his opponent, perhaps not moving as fast as Yoshitsune or Jade, but moving with an instinctive grace so great that he could move through near impassable areas with ease. In effect, he took short cuts. "Oh," he stopped and spun around on a branch, looking back to Yoshitsune, "and my familiy name is Kita. Kita Masaru." he said with a nod, before turning back to the hunt and bounding off again.

[Overcast]

His original plan to lead them out to the fight wasn't working. He was dealing with some fast customers, so he knew he wouldn't outrun them, by extension he was leading nothing. In just a moment he would be overtaken, surrounded, and very likely strung across the branches in multiple parts. Because none of them had enough honor for him to take advantage of. He kept his eyes open and waited for that one opportune moment, and swung himself to stop short. Past him went the hermit, the scyther, the orange blur. All chasing after what they thought was far enough ahead that they were trying to catch up to it.

The wonder of tunnel vision.

He was much better at hiding than he was at running. He let them move, not keen to reveal himself again. The question was...where was he going to go now? After they moved far enough they were going to realize he was either so far away they were never going to catch him, or that he had pulled the old full body slight of hand on them and were going to use their excessive speed to get him again.

It seemed he would HAVE to fight eventually. So he tried to grant some advantage. He slunk about the forest planting his arrows in the ground his mind trying to put together some kind of strategy that might work. His quiver emptied out soon enough and he sat by a stump just hiding and waiting.

He should have just held his fire.

[Arcanum]

"I'm Reikketsu Izuko," he said to Suzume, "and it's good to have you- shit. You stay here and rest, it looks like Yojimbo could use some help."

Izuko stood up and ran off to assist his outnumbered comrade by the tree line. From what he saw there was the large man who had assaulted Sulran, and a snake-like demon that had gone back into the trees, possibly waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Izuko arrived at the fight just as Yojimbo pulled himself free from Ichirou's grasp and he didn't bother wasting any time. Using the momentum from his run he lashed out with Shirogane's weighted end. The silver weight missed Ichirou by a few feet, then bounced off a tree behind him. With its new trajectory Shirogane's chain would get caught on Ichirou's arm and cause the weight so spin around him and fully ensnare him.

[Naqel]

The samurai fared surprisingly well on a physical and instinctual level, much better than anticipated from an average human. He clearly had an advantage over Ichirou in terms of speed, and matched him, in raw strength. Since he was not blinded by San'jay's attack, there was also no advantage beyond there technically being two on one... Technically, since San'jay did not look forward to having a direct confrontation with someone who would probably be strong willed enough not to be hypnotized into submission...

"Massster~"
Saying this only to catch Ichirous attention and hold him from immediately attackin, the snake demon once again left the tree line. His robe was left somewhere behind, and he did not keep his usual upright stance instead, he'd move like an actual snake, having his arms folded at his chest. He slithered towards his "masters" side.

"He isss weak, Massster."
Said the snake while circling the samurai, almost drilling him with his hypnotic gaze. By now San'jay leveled his head with that of the samurai. If the swordsman would merely catch a glimpse of his eyes now, his attention would be fully absorbed by them, and it would spell his downfall.
"Wouldn't ssstand a chance if you were in full health."

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo ignored the snake thing. He wouldn't look it in the face as it had spat that venom at thing and kept most of his focus on the larger demon, only keeping the corner of his eye on him. The one that was able to clasp his blades with ill effect seemed mighty indeed, their strength was even, though he was probably harder to hurt them him, Yojimbo's advantage was his speed. As the snake like thing came into his field of vision though talking like he knew him, which was really strange, Yojimbo reacted. moving with a blinding speed he leapt forward, landing beside the Snake thing.

He lashed at the thing's head with the butt of the hilt of his sharper sword, hoping to catch the creature on the side of the head and daze him and sent a knee at the creatures, chest? He wasn't sure how to describe the thing to be honest. He wasn't sure if either attacked hit with any force as he quickly leaped backed away from the creature to keep himself from being overwhelmed by both of them.

[Bard The 5th LW]

Ichirou managed to force a smile on his face despite the growing bruise left on him by Yojimbo's kick. "Hahahah," he chuckled, "intense, isn't it!"

He continued to watch amusedly while Yojimbo took a stance and tried ti ficus on him and San'jay. This guy was serious! He wasn't going to half-ass this fight. And Ichirou was glad for that.

Ichirou was admittedly caught off guard though when Izuko's chains captured him. Yeah, wasn't expecting that. Only one thing to do; struggle. Immediately, Ichirou oulled himself to the left, pulling the chain taught as he used his strength to jerk the chain. He wasn't sure what this would do, at best, it would pull Izuko to the ground, or wh knows, maybe even break the chain. Ichirou wasn't thinking to hard about it.

[Arcanum]

As Ichirou started to pull and struggle and the chain Izuko smiled as Shirogane's Unnatural Leverage kicked into effect. And then the smile was promptly wiped off his face he was pulled forward a few feet by Ichirou's massive strength. Izuko quickly recovered, dug his heels into the ground and properly braced himself. He slid forward a few more inches then stopped as they came to a stalemate. He didn't expect Ichirou to be this strong but that didn't matter any more now that he was prepared and focused. To be honest he hadn't faced too many opponents with this much strength, and had gotten used to Shirogane being able to take down almost anything. It was a refreshing awakening to say the least.

Still, something needed to be done. He couldn't stay chained to the half-demon for ever, and he didn't want to close the distance between the two of them just yet.

"Yojimbo!" he called out. "Take this one out while I have him subdued! You can play games with the snake after!"

[Bard The 5th LW]

"What! End it so soon? We just got started!" Ichirou was tryig his best, but he knew that he wasn't going to break these chains any time soon. Worse even, he wasn't going to turn the tables, this guy knew how to use these weapons.

'Well there is one thing I can still do,' Ichirou figured. If he didn't try something, mister silent sword was going to come by with a slit to his throat.

"GRRRRRRAAAAAAAAAAHAHAHAHAHAHa!!!" Ichirou howled, rousing himself as he used the little room he had around his legs to rush Izuko. The chains could only prevent movement away, not towards. Although his pace was slowed by the chains around his legs, he still pushed on, using his strength in an attempt to overcome it. Intimidation was his best tactic at this point. He couldn't move his arms, but if he gave off the appearance of confidence and a sense of victory, then the man may change tactics. Fortunately, appearing psychotic and self-assured came naturally to the half-demon.

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo heard the shout and looked as he landed to see the thing chained by Izuko. Damn he's good with those Chains.

Yojimbo moved forward to the other one quickly, he was faster then the snake thing so he could help out Izuko for the time being. Till the beast charged, oh that was not good.

"Damn," Yojimbo hissed silently and began to move quicker. He had to stop the charge or Izuko was in trouble. He knew what to do, with him preoccupied with the charge, Yojimbo closed the gap quickly and sliced is Sharp blade at the thing's calf, while his Blazing sword cut in towards his sides. Then not pausing to see the damage he had cause he leaped forward. During that he kicked out at the creature, aiming his foot for his knee as he passed him before landing at Izuko's side.

He spun around and readied himself again, half expecting this insane creature to charge once again. Now that the odd's had evened things started looking up.

[Astral Harmony]

Tsubasa nodded and stood up to follow Ta on their search for Koyuki. "I shall go. Shimokaze-sama is a dog demon, correct? I hear they can be rather...impatient. And highly motivated when their opponent is in sight."

It was pretty likely, at least in Tsubasa's mind, that Koyuki had a habit of disregarding her own orders whenever she found something more alluring. She may have wanted to end their mission early by taking Daisuke Kurama down pre-emptively. "Let us go, but we should be careful. No doubt the fighting has agitated all of the combatants. We should expect pitched battles."

[Bard The 5th LW]

Ichirou's charge did indeed stop as he was forced to take the beating given by Yojimbo. He was bleeding where the sword struck him, and he was briefly thrown off center at the kick. If only his arms were free, then this man would suffer so much!

Fortunately for the half-demon however, he was getting very pumped up by the damage he was taking. In fact, he was laughing mad at the hits. Shit, he was using resilience. It was time for him to throw caution to the wind.

In his pain-killed frenzy, Ichirou found himself gaining more strength to fight the chains. He wasn't breaking them, but sort of pushing them away from himself. It wasn't too long before he manged to free a single arm from the chains. Insanity was allowing him to fight back. Immediately, he reached out and grabbed the chain that was reaching out, and swung it forwards. It seemed that he was a kleptomaniac as well as a normal maniac, as he was trying to use his single arm to steal the chain from Izuko! That probably wasn't good!

[Zero Hex]

Yoshitsune kept up the pace for a while longer before giving Kita's words a bit more consideration. He'd gotten too excited and had made a foolish move, dragging someone else with him. He really wasn't cut out for the "wise old man" role. "Waaait wait wait!" he yelled out "we should be able to easily see him from up here, right? We've been moving forwards for a while and have seen nothing. If he's able to outrun all three of us then chasing him has no point. Even if he simply hid in the area looking around for him will be pointless, lest we raze the entire forest down".

Using the rather flexible branch he had landed on as a trampoline, Yoshitsune took another massive leap, flying through the air without clearing the treeline and landing in front of Jade "Maybe we should head back now? Those explosions might have garnered you people some unwanted attention".

[Mesden]

"Wonderful, it'll be a veritable Ladies' day out, but hopefully with more casualties." Ta made eager their departure to the brawl, not particularly caring if Tsubasa or Misume was keeping up with her light run. It wasn't a long nor interesting walk, but Ta was happy with her discovery, "Koyuki hogging the good fight, just great!" Ta eyed the potential combatants, "Idiot, slouch, don't care, don't care, idiot number two, don't care."

After a brief moment of ill-condoned judging, Ta noticed the forest anterior, torn apart by someone -- who, she didn't really care -- but she could figure 2 and 2. A lot of missing people, sounds and signs of exploding coppice, and her impatience for a good fight left one logical course of action.

"Ah, forests. I like forests. Never much cared for finding people in forests, though." Ta waxed aloud, kneeling to touch the large shadow of the underbrush that spread across the ground, stretching far across extremity of the treeline. Her hands grasped at seemingly nothing but the grass and dirt, but withdrew much more, tearing what appeared to be a giant slab of metal from nothingness, it's length growing exponentially with the ascent of the makeshift grip she had created in it. Upon hoisting the impressively large plate of metal, she touched one hand along the front edge, smoothing it over with her thumb. Her focus was unwavering, completely deaf to those around her as she partook in her craft.

"Guys might want to watch your heads!" Ta shouted, gesturing to those behind her -- she didn't want to kill any bystanders, really, as that wouldn't be a proper battle.

She heaved the magnificent, dark metal edge over head and quickly reared it backwards, the back side slicing the air for an, at a glance, unfathomable distance behind her and high above any in her wake, before swinging down, using her entire body as the pivot of a massive blade. It sheared through the brush swiftly and with an eerie placidity, like a scythe through wheat. The moment of peace was short, though, as the forest before her began to tumble down, incidentally causing small tremors throughout the entire vicinity.

As the majority of the trees fell, so did the bulk of the canopy, and with it the source of longevity for her improvised giant machete, the shadows that formed it fluttering away with her lack of focus and source material.

Ta, grinning devilishly from ear to ear, began her pursuit, ready to carve another swathe in the treeline should she need.

[lazy man]

Suzume was getting bored of watching fights, but he wasn't exactly itching for a fight now that his body was getting settled into the "FUCK YOU I HURT" state. Ignoring that was easy enough, but it was just annoying to sit there feeling useless. If only he had some booze, that would make everything better.

FWOOSH

"Ah, such a nice breeze..." Suzume thought as a sudden breeze swept over him. It was so relaxing, he almost thought he could go to sleep right then and the--

THOOM

A tree fell right in front of him as he was wanting to go to sleep, reminding him that he wasn't really in the best spot to be falling asleep. And of course the whole forest falling down around him and somehow not hitting him was something to think about too.

Wait, what?

"Someone seriously did that? I never thought ANYONE could top me in destroying stuff... GAH! Where are they? Where are-- oh" Looking at the source of the shadowy blade that had cleaved the forest in two, Suzume saw Ta, Tsubasa, Misume, and Kenikua a good distance away. Three good looking girls and... what was that guy, dead? Anyway, the one covered in black had caused the forest-wide destruction and was conveniently headed in the direction of the ruckus that had briefly been put to a rest. And was she looking at him like some secondary idiot? Didn't matter, really.

"Yo, sweet stuff! How'd you do that? Mind giving a few pointers?" Suzume yelled out, not really noticing that the four of those enemies could easily kill him if he wasn't paying attention. Which he wasn't.

[Mesden]

"Not interested, gotta kill people, praise Talkatz!" She yelled back dismissively, doing her best to shun away tag-alongs. Mouthing off whatever fickle goal she had in mind for the day tended to work.

[Astral Harmony]

Tsubasa followed Ta carefully, not really approving of what she did but not in the mood for an arguement. She was never in the mood for arguements.

Tsubasa's problem with Ta's destruction of the forest was that she was really killing the advantage. Ninja like Tsubasa thrived in hiding spots which offered good positions from which to covertly assassinate targets. Granted, there were still numerous places for her body to get out of sight, but if the trees were still standing, a far more open range of blind spots would have been available. Obviously, Ta wanted a straight-up fight. Tsubasa could do that, but it just wasn't her style.

[Naqel]

San'jay pretends he was knocked out by Yojimbo, then shit happens.

The gentle pat on the head caught San'jay a bit off guard, in fact it sent him crashing to the ground face forward. A knee probably aimed at where his body was earlier swung above his head, and the samurai was now backing away.

For a while, the snake demon would consider getting up, but coming of as far weaker than he actually was was a part of his usual modus operandi. Instead he'd gasp as if losing consciousness, and lay there keeping a half-open eye on the situation. He noticed Ichirou being now the one with the numbers against him, but before he managed to act upon it...

"The foressst eksssploded?"
A short comment escaped him, luckily the sound of the falling trees covered it, preventing the breaking of his act.

[lazy man]

Being ignored? That was one thing. But being ignored to kill people? What the hell? This chick was something else, that was for sure.

"Aw, c'mon, you clear forests that easily and I gotta wonder how ya do it!" Suzume yelled, hopping off of his rock and heading out to intercept her. "Annoying" is what her perspective may have seen, but Suzume was being purely inquisitive. If she gave him some pointers, imagine how much easier hunting would be! One explosion, and BOOM! No effort at all! The pain he was feeling now would no longer be a concern!

"This place isn't even that fun anyway!" He paused to think about that one. "Yeah, no fun at all! Everyone's doing the fighting and I'm just sitting here! Might as well just go kill someone else!"

(OOC: Exclamation points! Yeah!)

[Mesden]

"I like your attitude, but, for one, your ass already looks kicked enough, you don't want my brand of pointers. Secondly, don't get in front of me, " he didn't have much time to consider her words before the half-demoness kicked off from one of the many newly made logs and again off of his head, leaving a nasty boot mark on the head of oblivious Suzume.

She didn't really care if he followed her, but standing in her way? Ta couldn't leave him without hurting him a little.

[lazy man]

"OW FUCK" ran through Suzume's thoughts like a gunshot as Ta's boot smashed against his head and put him off to the side. For the second time that day his skull was ringing, but this time he was actually feeling excited. Was this a fight in the making? Suzume didn't know, but his eyes gave away his excitement as a bright blue began to flare up in them again.

"DAMN that hurt!" he muttered as he got up and rubbed what was turning into a nasty lump on the side of his head. Still conscious, at least. And she was still moving, great. "Hey, that wasn't sweet. I'm just being all nice and you just step on me? What the hell?"

Aaaaand she wasn't listening. What the hell indeed? Nobody seemed to be listening to Suzume today.

"I SAID what the hell?!" Suzume asked more forcibly, grabbing Ta's shoulder to stop her so they could have a nice "chat". A nice, peaceful "chat".

[Mesden]

"Ahaha, oh no. No, he really just didn't," Ta liked to think of herself as a reasonable woman. Abrasive? Sure. Condescending? One of her best traits! But certain things, whether they be from repressed memories or purely from pride, pissed her off. Ta could handle orders, challenges, even insults and keep her head as level as is usual with her. But hands, laying hands on her? Man, woman, or confused monkey, it didn't matter. Ta batted his hand away from her, forcefully cutting the mans arm with an improvised blade on the spaulder of her armor with the brush -- there'd be no declaration of intent or challenge today, for he had picked his fight.

She withdrew her blade from the makeshift rack on her back and swung it forcefully around, intending to either cleave the poor idiot in twain like so many trees, or force him away from her, where she would readily pursue.

[lazy man]

Suzume's thoughts could have stuck to the new cut on his arm or the large claymore heading right for his midsection, but his instincts were beginning to kick in instead of his head. Ducking down below the slash and immediately pulling out his sword he counterattacked with all the speed he could muster. And all it did was bounce off of her armor.

"Useless piece'a..." Suzume mumbled as he rolled off to the side wondering why he didn't have anything fancy like all these other people did. Maybe he could ask one of them where they got their pretty little things from later. It would have to wait, though, since another blow was coming at his head.

Suzume jumped backwards to dodge, planting his feet on a nearby fallen tree and springing forward with all his might and aiming his sword at Ta's head in retaliation.

[Mesden]

Unfortunately for Suzume, Ta was not one to leave any part of herself vulnerable to assault, reacting to his telegraphed assault on her one open body part by pulling forth an elaborate helmet, stylized in demonic fashion from her days as a foot soldier in the hordes.

But even with headgear attached, Ta was not fool enough to let a strike freely land on her skull, and parried the sword with her wristguard, deflecting the blade skyward and away from her head while subconsciously strengthening and thickening the onyx metal as it blocked. Despite not being a demon of renown brute strength, she used her more than adequate power to force an opening, pushing past his blow with her left arm, and thrusting her claymore with her right.

Not to go easy on the man she now considered nothing more than an annoying tree, the thrusting blade's shadow rose with the slash itself, latching onto the tip of the sword and effectively doubling its thrusting power and length in one blow.

[lazy man]

Still in the air and unable to dodge or block, Suzume panicked and put his free hand in front of the incoming shadow blade. A wall of blue flame erupted in front of the helpless man and solidified into a sort of translucent material that stopped the attack in its tracks. Of course, momentum being what it is, Suzume was thrown away from Ta. Still being in the air, however, left him open to another attack like that.

After Ta's attack bounced him away in another direction and his shield dissipated, Suzume lined his hand up directly in his enemy's direction and launched a soul straight at her. Blue flame streaked out in Ta's direction, pure energy searching to destroy something with its demonic nature.

Suzume, meanwhile, smiled at the thought of the ensuing explosion as he landed on the ground in a not-so-graceful manner.

[Mesden]

Ta threw a curious look towards the soul hijinks Suzume let loose -- of all the many fights she'd been in, she never saw someone attack and defend so efficiently with the same magic...aside from herself. Not one to take any attack on the chin, Ta dropped to one knee and placed her forearm in front of her, emulating a defensive stance with a shield, but lacking the shield. Within the split second of travel time between the soul blasting her square in the chest, Ta urged forth a veritable wall of steel, pulling some from the armor already on her and some from the ground, forming a solid, large plate of demonic alloy to block the blast.

While effective in completely mitigating the brunt of the attack, Ta was not actually a tree, and like many things that aren't trees, she did not have years of rootwork tunneling into the ground to prevent sudden movement. The blast pushed the wall back against her, pushing her across the many broken logs and stumps she had created. Despite the dramatics of the knockback, she picked herself up, unharmed, but the blast had cost her the armor on her left arm and and leg, leaving nothing but slightly tattered black cloth, if only for a moment.

She reset her footing as she watched Suzume plummet to the ground awkwardly, taking the time to make sure all was in order with her armor as the lingering shadow wall dissipated into nothing. Once Suzume has regained his footing, Ta picked up on their quickly ended conversation from before, "You've got a couple of neat tricks, almost enough to actually hurt me. If you hadn't have laid your hand on me I might've humored this fight a bit more. But now I'm forced to show you why you respect a lady."

Despite calling herself a lady, Ta's condescending remarks were barely more dignified than a sneer at this point, but, mannered or not, she was no less a vicious duelist. Suzume wondered what she was talking about, but understood why she made the declaration quickly enough. Ta put away her sword and knelt back to the ground, grasping at the small shadows between the logs and debris on the ground, and pulled, similar to her deforesting stunt before, but much less grandiose. Two black veils wafted from her hands, a smile cracking on her lips through the mask as she pulled the veils together in front of her and, as quickly as that, vanished into the shadow, taking "absence of light" to a different level as all reflections around her passed right through, the world of light completely unaware of her existence.

Suzume stared blankly at what used to be Ta, before uttering a muffled, "Oh fuck."

Though invisible, Ta's movements could atleast be heard as she walked across the forest remains, but the clattering sound was very subtle, and direct movements were almost impossible to determine. Suzume had been a line of sight fighter for most of his experience, so this was completely new to him.

"You asked for pointers from me, so I'll give you an important one, do not lay your hands on a woman without her permission," she commanded, her voice nearly haunting as it bellowed forth from her armor, invisible in origin. Suzume was very tense, wary of what might happen when he felt it. A sharp, metallic elbow to the side of his head sent him reeling towards the ground, shocking him from the sudden impact.

"Hate to end the fight so soon, but this is what you get fo- " Ta's monologue was cut short, and instantly her illusory veil collapsed, showing a statuesque stance of her, holding her sword poised to strike at Suzume. At first the demon slayer was shocked, expecting the blade to swipe down on his prone state, but what followed was more surprising. Ta, without warning, collapsed to the ground, armor chattering as her ragdoll collided with the earth.

Only seconds ago she was intent on ending, or atleast maiming Suzume, and now, despite her demonic garb, she lay rather peaceful on the ground in a deep sleep.

[lazy man]

Suzume looked at the sky from his position on the ground, wondering what had just happened. He was going to die for sure and his opponent... fell asleep? That was something new. He'd never seen that in all his near-death experiences.

Just to make sure he wasn't completely screwed just yet Suzume had wanted to get up and maybe poke Ta's sleeping form with his sword or something, but his body wasn't exactly responding. He had taken enough blows to the head to put anyone else into a coma, and the results were kicking in now that the adrenaline in his system was wearing off.

"Ugh, I need a break..." Suzume muttered as he counted his souls. Nine in all. Three used and not replaced in one day. A new record, by any stretch. Well, that was something else to think about. The floating fireballs began floating around in a hypnotizing pattern, almost telling their owner to go to sleep in their own way. "Uuuuugh..." was the last groan that came out of his mouth before he finally passed out from all punishment he'd taken in less than an hour.

[Overcast]

Sometimes it was worthwhile to make strong friends. Right around his shadowy position Ieyasu had been able to get a good look at the fight between that creep that had tried to blow his ass up earlier and the lygomancer. By the viewpoint it seemed that she was on his side, if someone could assume such a thing. He inched himself out and contemplated picking up her helpless body and taking her to safety. On the one side it would include him having to carry the unnecessarily large claymore and armor which would just be murder on his back. On the other hand...he really needed someone who could make a proper distraction since everyone and their mom seemed to be good at stopping his arrows.

All that shadow manipulation was enough to disorient this one in a massive way, together they could make a rather good combination. Hopefully the, dragging your body away from a potentially dangerous situation was enough to earn the trust he would need.

He had no idea about how schizophrenic her goals were, and that he might once more have to deal with a battle when she woke up and suddenly want to save the holy swordsman, recognize him as a Talkaz associate and remind him why he saved her in the first place. Though in the worst kind of way.

That was just his luck though, throw out your back trying to save someone who is probably going to kill you.

And you don't even know it yet.

Kindness never pays, even if it seems like it should.

[Raiden]

Kurama had enough with all these attacking demons. He widened his stance, the bottom of his sandals digging into the earth to help stabilize his form. The third kanji on his blade began to glow a brilliant yellow, the light of the Raigaki increasing in intensity as Kurama's blade went up high to strike...

Until a strange sound reverberated through the air. The yellow light faded away as Kurama looked up. In the sky was...a boat? A large ship with several massive propellers kept it aloft, wings of dark paper helping to keep it steady. He had no idea what he was looking at until he heard a voice coming from the ship.

"WARNING ALL THOSE WITH SKIN EASILY BROKEN! THIS MAY HURT!"

Four large metal cylinders shifted over the side of the boat, beginning to spin with a high-pitched noise. Kurama's eyes widened as he started to run to the side, his movement quickly followed with a new deafening noise from above and dozens of small metal pellets firing at high speeds down into the crowds.

[Astral Harmony]

Tsubasa moved quickly, using her strength to pull trees over Ta and Suzume to form a sort of protective barrier against the storm of metal pellets. She didn't have a whole lot of time to do so, but the barrier held. The pellet rain subsided and Tsubasa inspected both combatants.

Suzume had been completely spared, miraculously. Ta was hit a few times, but also had protection in the form of her own armor. Tsubasa winced as she unbroke her finger and, reaching into her leg, violently pulled out a pellet that actually entered her body. She would heal in due time. With that done, Tsubasa moved over to check Suzume out more.

She didn't know who the guy was, so she wasn't sure if protecting him was a good idea or not. But saving Ta was. At any rate, with the bullet rain over, Tsubasa began to remove the half-assed tree fortress from Ta should that Tsubasa could carry her out of the destroyed forest. With her hands underneath Ta's shoulders, Tsubasa began to drag the dozing half demon over the many logs, felled by Ta and splintered by Daisuke's airship. She wished to find Kenikua and Koyuki fast, as those two were the best two to ask for where Daisuke might travel on the airship.

[PyrosNine]

Pyros, though down, was not out, and before his elderly 'savior' could act to defend herself, she found him upright and sword out, deflecting metal pellets with his blade with speed and skill, moving, twisting and blocking, the tattered things on his back sending up a storm of feathers with every quick movement: instead of moving, he 'flew' to every position, ignoring the pain of having to use his tattered body in favor of his tattered wings.

He continued to do so until the bullet rain passed, whereupon he finally moved something other than his arms and wings, assuming a battle stance, sword raised.

At once, all the fires created as a result of the battle that day were extinguished, as if drowned by invisible water, and the entire battlefield felt to those who were in the area of effect slightly colder.

He followed up this action....by standing still. Still and stiff. As if he was....

...Standing asleep.

A light breeze soon toppled him back over.

[Bard The 5th LW]

At this point, ichirou had manged to get both arms free from the chains, and was about to go to town on Izuko. Oh this would be good! Murder and destruction!

It was cut short however by the imminent airship attack. Seriously, what the fuck was this shit. "No time to think to hard about that," Ichirou said as he observed the battleship loom overhead.

"Well it seems I have to go now, don't forget to ring me up in the future if you want to finish this. Also, the guy overcompensating with the gun is probably still alive, so you should check on him. Want to see his reaction to me having his cloak." He was a chatty guy it seemed.

As soon as the fire started, he used all his adrenaline to remove the unbreakable chains from his body. God dam! He wasn't used to things not breaking when he wanted! He had to literally lift himself out of the metal trap.

As soon as he was freed, Ichirou took off running. He knew when he was beat, and he was beat when Airships began hailing bullets from the sky. He was also sure to pick up San'Jay before making his speedy exit. Hopefully, they would e to preoccupied with cover to give chase.

It had appeared that most cover, trees, had been destroyed by someone who wasn't him. That was a nusiance. He did his best, and hid himself behind the tallest remaining tree trunk he could find. It was truly a sad say for mother Earth. He siimply stood the brunt of the bullets here. Before it ended, Ichirou found himself shot about 3 times. Letting San'jay go, Ichirou picked himself up from cover and began to find a way out of the forest. The snake demon could probably walk now. He didn't need Ichirou to lift him the whole way.

To be truthful, Ichirou wasn't sure where he was going, he figure if he chose one direction long enough, he'd find a way out. Fortunately, he came across Tsubasa carrying a sleeping Ta, so he didn't have to use pure luck. "Hey there Tsubasa," he said giving his signature wave as he dragged himself over the fallen logs. "How has your day been." He was walking with a sort of limp at this point, as he hadn't bothered to remove the bullets in his legs. "I've been enjoying myself, have you? I bet Ta has."

[Steel Shadow]

"Waaait wait wait!" Yoshitsune yelled out "we should be able to easily see him from up here, right? We've been moving forwards for a while and have seen nothing. If he's able to outrun all three of us then chasing him has no point. Even if he simply hid in the area looking around for him will be pointless, lest we raze the entire forest down."

Kita sighed. He'd been thinking something similar. He cast on final look around, hoping to spot the fleeing man, before grunting in annoyance. Closing his eyes for but a moment, he pictured the Archer, the view of his face he'd seen as the man had ducked under Hami's blade. "I'll remember you, coward," he muttered quietly.

Using the rather flexible branch he had landed on as a trampoline, Yoshitsune took another massive leap, flying through the air without clearing the tree line and landing in front of Jade "Maybe we should head back now? Those explosions might have garnered you people some unwanted attention."

"That's likely true, if there have been as many assassins around as Yojimbo said. We should hurry back to Kurama. Hopefully he'll be done with his dual by now. If not- What the-!" Kita leaped backwards as not far ahead something struck through the trees with a sharp Crack. "A shadow?" He asked in confusion, staring at the blade that whipped through the trees like they were mere air. The destruction didn't quite reach the group, but it was still impressive. Kita watched in disturbed awe as the trees ahead crashed down to the ground.

"....Well now we'll never find him," Kita murmured in sotto. He raised his voice "Yeah, better get back to Kurama and sort out- Oh now what?"

That was when the airship dropped down into view. Kita stared. "What."

"WARNING ALL THOSE WITH SKIN EASILY BROKEN! THIS MAY HURT!"

"Oh you have got to be-" The airship swung out its weapons and opened fire. "Hami! Full shield!" He shifted his grip on the scythe, tightening his hold while running his thumb straight down the grip's spine. In response, blades popped out of the 'staff', crooked and at different angles, but forming a full layer of pointed metal all along it's length.

Calling out the technique name had been unnecessary, but it felt so right.

"Willing to share, by the way!" He called back to the others, as the bullets began to ping off his makeshift shield.

[Dracorion]

Yoshiro's eyes flew open. He wasn't sure how much time he'd spent tranced out. The wound where the crossbow bolt hit on his back was now closed, only scar tissue remaining. Immediately, he put out the forest fire he had started and sighed. Starting that fire was a bad move. In retrospect, there were a million different, better ways to get out of that situation. A good chunk of the forest was now turned into charcoal.

But there was no changing that. Yoshiro was still going back home, on a faraway place up north, where he couldn't be forced into making mistakes like that again. He would have to cross the town again, hopefully without incident this time, follow the road for a couple of weeks and then head north.

Yoshiro did indeed cross the town without anything happening, but after that was a whole different story. Fighting. Lots of it. On a hilltop and in the forest. Well, what was left of the forest. Someone had mowed down a large number of trees. Then an airship appeared and started firing upon the crowds, and Yoshiro was just close enough that he'd have to deal with it too. Well, at least whoever was on that ship had the decency to shout out a warning.

He raised Tetsukaki above his head and began spinning it quickly. A vortex of fire erupted from the spear and rose up into the air, sucking up all the bullets raining down on Yoshiro's vicinity. Once the hail ended, Yoshiro at once sprang toward the forest. There might still be violent savages there, even if the bullets kept them from tearing at each other, but at least he could use the trees for cover.

As he made his way through the forest, Yoshiro heard voices. Don't go check. But he couldn't help himself. Moving slowly and quietly he approached the place where the voices came from and stopped when the trees suddenly ended. Staying hidden behind the treeline, Yoshiro saw four people among a mass of fallen and splitered trees. Two of them seemed to be unconscious. One of them, a woman he recognized from the village, was carrying one of the unconscious people away. There was also the large gloved man who Yoshiro had fought, who didn't seem content with the bad burns he'd gotten and decided to get himself a fresh set of injuries after escaping the fire.

Yoshiro was in no mood for round two. He hadn't been in the mood for round one, anyway.

[batgirl]

Jade had skidded to a stop when Yoshistune landed in front of her. "Waaait wait wait!" Yoshitsune yelled out "we should be able to easily see him from up here, right? We've been moving forwards for a while and have seen nothing. If he's able to outrun all three of us then chasing him has no point. Even if he simply hid in the area looking around for him will be pointless, lest we raze the entire forest down." Shit, he was right. She had been preoccupied with her comrades that she hadn't even realized she had outrun the person she was chasing. "Maybe we should head back now? Those explosions might have garnered you people some unwanted attention." She turned her head towards the explosions and nodded, getting ready to break into a run again, only to be cut off by a loud booming voice.

"WARNING ALL THOSE WITH SKIN EASILY BROKEN! THIS MAY HURT!"

She looked up, cocking an eyebrow, and seeing the giant boat could only say two words, "oh boy." As bullets began to rain down, Jade unsheathed her swords and began dodging, using her swords to deflect and stray bullets she could not dodge.

[Overcast]

"WARNING ALL THOSE WITH SKIN EASILY BROKEN! THIS MAY HURT!"

He did not like the sound of that at all. When he looked up from the narcoleptic body of the lygomancer he caught a view of the steel rain and for a moment he was just stoic. He had finally passed over the line of cowardice to the point of apathy. Annoyance and irritation...he finally understood how that sword felt. Still there was nothing he could do now, he was stuck with the heavy comrade in his hands and he was in no position to dodge.

Guess it was up to fate.

As fate would have it Tsubasa happened to cover everybody in the current space, including that creep with the penchant for explosive overkill. It also included himself though so he found it forgivable. Eventually she dropped down to look over healing and dragging, and considering her bloodline he left that to her because that armor was just doing a number on his spine,

"Don't bother with the other one. He is one of theirs."

He contemplated putting an arrow in him...then he realized he had none. He had put down his last one just outside the barrier. He stared around and all his planted arrows were busted and bruised to uselessness by the bullet barrage. His sword was out of commission as well so he had no means to execute. Which really was a shame, because he didn't much like the guy.

He sighed and simply followed along, collecting from the wreckage what he would need to fashion himself a new quiver before the next confrontation. He hoped it was a while, he was just a little shot from the mental stress.

[Naqel]

Being lifted and then dropped during the bullet hail was definitely something San'jay did not anticipate to happen. Especially the bullet hail part. He felt something ripping through his side, but luckily it didn't go as deep as to barely scratch the ribs, the possible scar had him worried though, he was always very proud of his beautiful scales.

"Foucusss! Damn it! Shhh~"
He cursed himself for thinking about his beautiful scales in a moment his life could have been in danger.

He raised his head to see where did Ichirou went after he dropped him and followed.
Lack of clothing bothered him rather little, though he didn't like the idea of having to get a new robe for representative purposes.
Bleeding slightly from the side, he finally caught up with his "master", who has by then finished greeting a female San'jay recognized as one of the most renown assassins in the underworld.
He'd bow with proper respect, but neither introduce himself nor offer to carry the unconscious one he did not recognize.

[Menarker]

Erayo had stared down the opponent of the spiked gauntlet, but it was apparent that the long delay indictated that he was either faking or unconscious... if he was dead, he would be stuck in an eternal coma, courtesy of his innate ability. Things however didn't even last as long as expected.

"Impotent."

Looking over his shoulder with a sense of paranoia, the large figure removed himself from the forest's premise as he walked back to town, rather disgruntled about the entire affair.

"WARNING ALL THOSE WITH SKIN EASILY BROKEN! THIS MAY HURT!"

Erayo looked above toward the skyborn ship and spied bullets incoming at an intense pace. Possessing little in the ways of actually deflecting bullets, the large figure had to react fast. Erecting his aura outwardly in a short radius to cause the townfolks close by to instantly fall asleep, he charged into a wall with brute force, breaking through it as he sheltered himself within the house with its sleeping inhabitants and... 3 and a half sturdy walls. They were in the middle of lunch time. He snuck himself a large handful of rice and sake, as they slept unaware and left the house. He was relatively pleased that he could practically always find a comfortable place to sleep and eat. When everyone else around you falls asleep, who can possibly protest? He then left heading up the hill, unknowingly heading for a large gathering.

[Zero Hex]

"WARNING ALL THOSE WITH SKIN EASILY BROKEN! THIS MAY HURT!"

Yoshitsune looked up at the airship. Okay, that was it. First half a forest had fallen down in front of him, effortlessly cleaved down by what appeared to be a shadow of some sort. Okay, alright, he could process that. If it was a person doing it, he could fight back and maybe even win.

But that thing in the air? What the hell?

As he stood there almost frozen in place, his mind instantly went through the entire acumen of colorful and rather innapropiate phrases he had gathered throughout his life at the same time, his brain trying to pick the perfect words to express his feelings towards the current situation. Instead, a muffled "...wat" echoing Kita's own escaped his lips as he stood there staring at the spinning metal cylinders trying to convince himself that it had to be an illusion of some sort, even as they opened fire towards his current location. Not feeling particularly inclined towards even trying to deflect the onslaught despite likely being capable of doing so with little injuries, Yoshitsune quietly sought shelter underneath Kita's shield, watching the pellets ping off the wondrous weapon's multiple blades, falling heavily on th floor. Yep, they were definitely real. There was a very real boat thing in the air shooting very real metal spheres at everything in sight.

"Okay, that was...unexpected to say the least" he said as the attack subsided "Let's head back before that thing up there decides to shoot some more death metal at us?"

[krogothwolf]

The creature had freed himself from Izuko`s chains but it was now 2 to 1 odds as he had seem to have dealt with the snake thing temporarily, then a shadow seemed to be caste around them and shout was yelled loud and clear.

"WARNING ALL THOSE WITH SKIN EASILY BROKEN! THIS MAY HURT!"

Yojimbo looked up and his jaw dropped as he saw what was above them and what was soon to happen. He started to dodge, moving and weaving throught the incoming storm and uses his blades to defend himself. Though he wasn`t 100% successful, a few had gotten through, a rip on his thigh, one on his bicep one along his side. he kept moving though, distancing himself as well as he could from the hail storm coming down at them.

"What the hell is going on, who is firing on us?" he yelled as the day got crazier and crazier.

[Raiden]

The ship began to lower closer to the ground after the crowds of fighting combatants had dispersed. Several thick climbing ropes were dropped down for those that had stayed behind to climb up. As the ship got closer, it was easier to see a man standing on the railing of the ship.

He was thin and lanky, with burnt clothing and goggled strapped to his face. His hair was frizzy and wild, with a large cone held in front of his mouth that he yelled into.

"KURAMA AND COMPANY, CLIMB ABOARD THE WONDER BOAT!"

[POS Industries]

The assortment of pointless battles having no interest to him and the meeting between the target Kurama and his allies being disrupted to the point of useless toward the goal of gathering information about their next move, Dai had opted to move on, returning to his body and quietly making his way out of the village while everyone remained asleep.

He made his way to an open field, a fair distance away from the sounds of combat, explosions, and rampant and sudden deforestation that were all occurring nearby. It was, in fact, a beautiful morning. Sunlight from the east glistened against the dew on the grass, a warm breeze billowed his kimono and carried the scent of nature under his nose as birds sang all around in the surrounding forest.

And he was numb to it all. Still, the distant memory of such mornings lingered, and for a brief moment a contented smile crossed his face as the scenery triggered recollection of different and happier times.

The field suddenly found itself covered in shadow, and Dai looked up to see a ship sailing through the sky overhead. Deciding that was as much a sign that it was time to get back to work as any, he began to shuffle off behind it, following its course back to Kurama's meeting site.

Perhaps this time it will be less dull.

[PhoenixFlame]

Koyuki rolled right at the end of her strike, carrying her clear of Kurama's X-shaped attack, and regained her feet just in time to witness what was quite possibly the most absurd entrance in the short history of skyships.

Calmly, she returned Angetsu Shouten to its Saya, and spoke with a malicious tone. "We will be back, dustlings. Do not grow complacent."

Her hair whipped up as if taken by a strong gust of wind, and with a crackling flash was replaced with a massive, forked-tailed white wolf. With prodigious speed, it bolted for the nearby forest.

[mauve]

"Oh?" Oki asked herself, watching as the odd winged man leapt to his feet and deflected a hail of bullets, all while apparently asleep. He then collapsed back on the ground. "Ah. Well I certainly picked the right guy to rescue, eh Tengu?"

She got to her feet.

"You're unconscious and therefore unable to make rational decisions, so I still consider your debt to me unpaid," she added. She slung Pyros back over her shoulder.

"Whelp, I reckon we aught to get moving. No point in letting you bleed yourself to death before you repay me. We can't be far from the town, so we'll be...." her voice trailed off as a shadow fell upon her. She looked up, her eyes widening in awe. A flying ship hovered above her.

"Ooooooh," she said, looking up at the airship. "I've never been on an airship before! It's so shiny!" She looked doubtfully in the direction of the town. It seemed small and boring by comparison.

"Change of plans, Tengu." she said. She took off her sandals, tucked them under her obi and retreated some ways into the charred woods. Once she thought the others wouldn't notice, she adjusted her grip on the unconscious Pyros, and with a surprising display of agility, scurried up a tree and leapt up to the hull of the ship. She grabbed a trailing rope and slung herself onboard.

"Ah, this is the way to travel!" she said, looking around. "C'mon Tengu. Let's go see where they keep their food."

Apparently being a stowaway was nothing new to her.

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo moved as soon as the hail ended, quickly heading over to check on Sulran. The man was out cold, though wasn’t seriously wounded aside from the giant bruise on his head. He hadn’t be even been hit by the hail of bullets. He picked him up and slung him over his shoulder and grabbed his gun as well, stupid big giant weapon.

He then quickly headed over and checked on the falling man, he was out as well and looked someone beaten, but again another one who was undamaged by the hail of bullets. What is with these lucky buggers he thought, though he did see the trees around them, who ever had moved em possessed a strength probably greater than his own. He made sure the man had his weapons then tossed him over his shoulder as well.

He heard the guy from the ship yell and he looked up to see the ropes get tossed over. At least they had a way out of here though, and it should be safe. Though with how crazy this day has been he wasn’t really sure safe was actually true.

“Well least you guys lived through this,” He looking at the ropes, “but how am I possibly going to get you on the ship?”

HE then noticed the old lady use the tree as a spring board to climb on. Genius he thought a he then moved to mimic her actions, though he had the strength to actually propel himself on the ship. Jumping up onto the tree he coiled his legs and propelled himself upwards, going over the rail and landing on the ship. He saw the old lady heading off somewhere.

“That was a good idea ma’am, jumping like you did onto the ship with a wounded man, saved trying to climb up with the bodies.” He then extended his hand while still holding on the gun and having the forms slung over one shoulder. “Yatsume Yojimbo at your service.”

[mauve]

Oki cleared her throat nervously. Damn. She didn't think anyone had spotted her. Oh well, it wasn't like she'd never had to BS her way out of trouble before.

"A pleasure, Yojimbo," she said graciously. "I am Zaru Oki, mystic and soothsayer." She shifted Pyros' weight on her shoulder.

"This.... person here came to me seeking a glimpse into his future. I saw this airship, and the poor boy was determined to find it. I told him he would not live long if he continued to ignore his injuries, but he was determined to follow his path, even if it ended in death. As I was the one to reveal this to him, I only felt it was my responsibility to accompany him and make sure he got here." She set him down on the deck. "Poor little tengu boy. Never even told me his name." She shrugged. "It's against my policy to pry into customers' personal information, you know."

Oki had developed a flair for the dramatic over the years.

"Now I see there are others here with interesting futures." She took her geta sandals out from under her belt and put them back on her feet. "But in spite of our journey and my amazing mystical abilities, I'm still just a poor old woman. Aside from aiding this young man's destiny, I've no right to be on this ship. Still, I would hope you wouldn't be so cruel as to throw me overboard, starving and tired, probably to a miserable and lonely death, after I've come such a long way?"

[krogothwolf]

Yojimbo laughed, he liked this old lady. She had a way with words for sure, and she seemed sincere enough. He didn't feel overly trustworthy today all things considering but he couldn't really see a reason to distrust her. Damn was she good he thought, playing the old woman card after he saw her move like that. The Old Woman had made him guilty for making her nervous and sad that she thought he'd throw her off. He shook his head and smiled.

"Soothsayer eh?" Yojimbo commented as he looked at the old lady, she seemed alright he supposed, not overly threatening. Why she was at the site was beyond him though, could have been chance luck or the sound of battle could have drawn her to it.

"Well, I for one could not in good conscious throw and old lady over board, even if they do move fairly well for one," He finally said again, "and after what has gone down there and knowing what surrounds that location I certainly can't let the wounded man or yourself to return. I am sure Kurama would not mind."

He then looked down at the man, he looked hurt in a bad way. Out cold like these two as well. He bent down and picked him up as well.

"Well, we should get these three to a cot to lay down so they can rest," Yojimbo nodded to the lady, "I will carry them so a Poor Old Lady such as yourself would not be forced to carry such a heavy load, I am sure your back might not be able to take it."

He grinned at her and chuckled as he turned and headed down to the hold to look for a place to lay the three of them. "I am sure there is food down here Oki, and you are more than welcome to it I am sure."

He then disappeared down into the hold and found the cots to lay them on before heading to find the eating area himself, he was hungry after all this work after all.

[Julford Hajime]

The ladders near Kurama erupted in flame; THIS was her chance to strike. Kotone ran up behind Kurama, metal pole in her hand but otherwise being held in a non-threatening manner. Her usual loud mouth was quiet, and her footsteps did little to betray her position either, as the sound of the battles around Kurama were much louder. To even better conceal herself, Kotone was using her typical light spell for a different purpose; bending the light around her so that she was practically invisible to anyone not explicitly staring in her direction.

If Kurama tried to make a move towards any of the non-burning ladders, or any others were thrown down, she'd burn them just as quickly. If any bullets were fired at her, she'd simply deflect them with some simple wind magic. Should something else happen, Kotone would be ready to counter it with a spell. She was focused, finally; the kami's had grown tired of her obsession with this man, and kept themselves quiet so that they could finally finish things here before moving on. Along with this focus, she could feel greater control of her magic than usual; while making the "Wonderboat" suddenly explode was not within her grasp, something as wimpy as her usual methods of a couple lights in the face were not to be expected of her.

[mauve]

Bingo. Oki handed Pyros over to this "Yojimbo" and bowed in thanks.

"That's very thoughtful of you, young man," she said. "Fortune will smile upon you for your kindness." At least it would as long as he didn't give Oki a reason to rob him blind. Meanwhile, the monkey demon was busy sorting through the information Yojimbo had given her. The head of this group was named Kurama. Good to know. Oki guessed this was the swordsman who earlier dueled with the wolf demoness. He must be pretty strong. Also, either incredibly wealthy or very important, since he owned an airship or at least had one at his command. She'd keep that in mind.

Free information was a good thing, but free food was even better.

"If you'll excuse me, son, I think I'll go see if I can get something to eat. It's been several days since I last had a meal." Several days, or several hours.... something that had the word "several" in it. She bowed again and went off in search of the galley. She was curious as to what kind of food people kept on airships.

[Steel Shadow]

Getting on the airship seemed to be popular, and quite honestly, the longer the group stayed in the area the more fighting there would be. Kurama had only delayed for a few seconds and he'd already been attacked by someone with a death wish (Kita had a somewhat high regard for Kurama's skills).

"Well," he muttered, accepting the inevitable, "It's better than nothing."

And with that he snagged a rope ladder and pretty much ran directly up it.

"Do hurry up with that fight!" He called down. "We've long over-stayed our welcome! No need to toy with her."