Miyako Mormeril's Story

Five humans gather on the outskirts of their village. They had made the plans at school, as they all seemed to have the same idea. Not all of them talk regularly, but being the only 5 teenagers in the village brought them together for this night and this night only. So they wait—for the rest to arrive, for the night to fall, for something to happen. The night, so far, is peaceful. No disturbances lie in their wake, and those who are gathered together seem to be discussing something mundane and nondescript. Occasionally, company in the form of an elderly woman neighbor appears, asking what the children might be up to. Their answers are specific and vague—they are exploring, they are adventuring, things like that. It is a Friday night, after all, so there will be no school tomorrow.

In the village over, the Youkai are bustling with energy and excitement. Karakasa twirl their paper umbrellas as they walk. Kitsune play pranks on the other unsuspecting Youkai as they pass. Things like that. It has been quite some time since the Human World and Spirit World have fused, but many Youkai have taken solace in the form of this desolate village, with a village full of idiots who believe in them nearby. Things are... mundane tonight. The lights illuminate off of the Youkai.

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The night is nice... muses Sanae to herself. She smiles as she sits on a low tree branch, swinging her legs back and forth. It's nearing 8pm, and her curfew is usually 9pm, but she had practically begged her parents with the help of Nao to let her stay out later, so her curfew was lifted for tonight. In her excitement, she happened to be the first one at the meeting place. The Miko is starting to get a little antsy, so she occupies herself with a little singing... that is, until she hears footsteps. She turns toward the approaching footsteps and recognizes friend after friend until they've all arrived. She smiles and waves, practically shouting for them to join her.

Sanae hops off of the branch, dusting herself off, and trots over to Nao and Satogi, beaming brightly. ❝Ain't it lovely tonight? You can see the stars... and the water's awful sparkly. Sparkle, sparkle, sparkle... sparkle, sparkle sparkle...❞ Her eyes lock onto the water, as though she's mesmerized, hypnotized by the small waves and trickling sounds. As eccentric as she may be, Sanae is friendly to almost everyone she meets, and that's the type of friend every person could use. She glances over to Kyosuke then, a frown on her face.

❝What 'bout you, Kyosuke-kun? Don't ya think the stars look pretty nice tonight? What ya can see through the trees, I mean. Ya can't see too much, but it's not that much of a problem, 'cause what you can see is absolutely gorgeous! Don't ya think?❞ Small talk for the apathetic one, the one who doesn't want to be here in this village. Komorebi is a peaceful, quiet forest town, and Sanae rather likes that, but to each their own, she supposes.

❝We should get goin' soon... I'm practically burstin' with lots of energy! Yukiko-chan, don't ya think this could be the plot of... of a manga or somethin'? Or am I way off? Think about it, though—five teens embark on an adventure of a lifetime, to stake out an abandoned village to see who's actually livin' there. What if it really is Youkai? Then it'll really be like a manga!❞

She looks around and counts. There's one, two—her childhood friends Mao and Satogi—three, four—her school friend Yukiko and her... whatever he is, Kyosuke—five—herself! That should be everyone... maybe I better tell 'em we're leavin' now, just in case everyone wants to prepare...

❝Awwwright, everyone! Let's take off. If ya still need some time to do somethin', speak now, or forever hold your peace!❞

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The Oni prince steps carefully along the path, hands tucked into his sleeves. Lanterns and lights alike light up the path as he passes them, and he thinks to himself that it's a rather beautiful night, but it does little for excitement. Living for thousands of years grows a bit monotomous with each passing day. Ryuunosuke is not the sort of riff-raff to stir things up himself; such activities are reserved for the lower class, who cause trouble. Though he would never admit it, he does like watching trouble unfold, though only when he is in the mood for it. He is royalty, and for years, royalty had been entertained by the show of animals attacking each other and causing a ruckus. To Ryuunosuke, watching the commoners go at each other is much the same. He passes a bar—one he knows is owned by a jorogumo—and for a moment, he considers entering. Princes do not drink at bars, but Ryuunosuke will never pass up a chance for good sake.

Turning toward his trusted servant and advisor, he gives a soft smile, and there's a playful lilt to his voice. ❝Imagine you were a thirsty royal with a taste for the finest of sake, Tsutsurugi. You come across a bar and, though it is a gathering for common folk, you feel yourself compelled to enter. What would you suggest to be done about it?❞ He closes his eyes, smile never leaving him (a smile reserved for children and Tsutsurugi, one might add). His features certainly do befit a prince, with soft porcelain for skin and long eyelashes. Rarely are his expressions exaggerated; he is tasteful in how expressive he is. When he opens his eyes again, he gives Tsutsurugi a playful look. ❝Careful with your response, though—We may just disobey you all the same, such a mischievous prince as We.❞

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A yako kitsune such as Susumu should not be sulking about on a Friday night. Fridays are when humans are most likely to be out and about and let their guards down, which is somehing the kitsune rather likes. Instead, he looks down alley to alley, sighing in defeat when his search comes to naught. It seems even talk of violence rubs Tsuyari the wrong way and causes her to run off. He hadn't meant anything by it (well, not to her, anyway), and she went and ran off!

Occasionally, he would ask the passing Youkai if they had seen a blue-haired kitsune girl about yay high, yay wide, et-cetra, et-cetra. None of them have happened to see her, and Susumu is about to give up when he spots the blue hair he'd been looking for. He hurries over to her, kneeling behind her. ❝Sorry for whatever I said to offend you, Tsuyari-chan. You know I didn't mean to offend... well, I didn't mean to offend you.❞ He reaches out a hand to place it on her shoulder, then patting it gently. ❝Maybe I won't do any of that, for at least tonight... how about that? You and I could hang out, then. What about Miyako-san's bar?❞ He starts to wag his tail a bit at that, thinking that a trip to the bar would do well, despite how young Tsuyari might look. He figures the Youkai of this town must be familiar with her, though, so it shouldn't be a problem.

Besides, if they keep moving, Sanja might be around somewhere. Maybe he might even be at the bar, though it may be doubtful...

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As twilight came, good children went to sleep. Adults, too, grew tired, as the sun set, leaving the observable world in darkness. Of course, every time something fell asleep, another thing woke up, and in this case, it was the nocturnal Chiyoko, who's eyes had no trouble seeing in a world of little light. That said, the street where Youkai did commerce was far from dark, what with lights, both traditional and modern, brightly shining this way and that in a whole variety of colors.

The light made the Bake-Danuki easily recognizeable, dressed in her green kimono that didn't quite look like it belonged to a woman, and wearing that leafy hat that had the ribbon and bells on it that she was well known for, her kiseru pipe hanging from it by a string. Her glass spectacles reflected the light in a white sheen, not unlike an animal's glossy eyes would. Of course, her most prominent feature, her bushy tail, swayed gentle behind her.

Many of the other Youkai who recognized the lady greeted Chiyoko as she passed, greetings which she returned in kind with a full smile. She would stop at times to make small conversation, asking them about their evenings. Chiyoko asked Jikorin the Bakeneko if she was in good health, and indeed, she was feeling better after she returned from one of the human graveyards. Chiyoko asked her fellow Tanuki Mouri (who preferred to be in his Tanuki form, but wore rather modern clothes) if his business was doing well and if his wife was in good health. Chiyoko greeted the young Kappa Taro and Jiro, who were apparently debating whether stag or rhinoceros beetles were better, to which she suggested they should have the two kinds of bugs battle it out for supremacy. There were many familiar faces on the streets tonight, as there were every night, and almost all of them knew Chiyoko as a friendly old Youkai woman. When you live in such a small place for a long amount of time, everybody gets to know everybody at some point, even within a human's lifespan.

Still, there was one place that Chiyoko went to almost daily, usually to socialize, but she also conducted business there. This time around, however, it was for connections. Stepping past the curtains into the Rōzuu~ebu, she greeted the Jorogumo barkeep, Miyako, who knew her well. "Good evening, dearie. Has work been treating you well? Are the girls doing well? I reckon with all of you working so hard, this homey place will become back in due time... If you ever want to do anything to improve the place, I'll always let you borrow money at no interest charge, you know that... Oh, I'm not ordering anything yet, I've got matters to tend to. This old lady is always so busy, always working. I could use a day off to relax." Chiyoko spoke with that friendly, amiable tone that always made her seem so nice and trustworthy, and simply fun to be around, even if she droned on and wouldn't stop talking sometimes, not unlike any other old lady.

After a few minutes of pleasantries and small talk, however, Chiyoko decided that it was best to not keep her negotiation partner waiting any longer. He was there, standing and waiting for her, clearly not wanting to be rude. "Excuse me," she pardoned herself with an embarrassed smile and took the seat she was offered.

"I welcome you Chiyoko-dono, please enjoy the sake and don't mind the rather large characters behind us.'' The man greeted before extending his hand. Chiyoko looked at dubiously for a second before giving a hearty chuckle in realization. "Oh, my apologies, young man. I'm not entirely used to the other greeting customs of humans, but of course, I know of them." Still chuckling to herself, she returned the gesture. Chiyoko was also aware of the amount of information one could receive from a handshake. Her grip was firm and steady, even compared to the man's bigger hand.

With that out of the way, the man—Chiyoko knew exactly who he was, seeing as he invited her—decided to proceed with his request without any extra socializing. ''So let's get straight to business, I think you already know of my intentions but i'll explain them to you anyways. I wish to growth my business and power in the Underworld which I know your very influential in. If we could come to some sort of standalone I would enjoy that rather well." When he finished explaining, he offered to toast. "To becoming aquaintenced," Chiyoko offered, before returning the toast. She did not drink yet, however.

The Tanuki asked, "Do you mind if I smoke?" She grabbed the kiseru that hung from her hat and held it in her hands. Regardless of his answer, she took a moment to light it up and take a long, thoughtful drag from it. Chiyoko then leaned back and blew the smoke out and watched it contemplatively as it drifted upward toward the ceiling.

"I think you're sorely mistaken if you think I'm the one you're looking for," the Tanuki said at last, her restrained, old lady voice being replaced with something else entirely, something more devious. She looked directly at Mikado with a sly expression, leaning back in her seat with the kiseru in hand. "No, I know what you want, what you're looking to do. What you're mistaken about is how you think the underworld is run. Yes, I am indeed one of the most influential members, and indeed, I can make things happen according to my whims, but... Well, the underworld isn't some great big organization with any true structure. No, it's a free place, run by Youkai who simply decide they're not going to go by rules arbitrarily set up by someone else."

"Indeed, my power is great, but I'm no empress. I don't put a stranglehold on others and tell them what to do. I'm simply good at meeting people interests and benefiting them, and they do favors for me in turn. It's all about mutual benefit, a force that is the strength behind all interaction, from the bar to the bedroom. Us Youkai are all interested in ourselves and only ourselves, after all. So, do as you please, because I won't stop you... unless, of course, you are in the way of my interests... And likewise, be helpful to me, and I'll support you, like the good partner that I am." Chiyoko paused for a moment to take another drag from her kiseru to allow her words to sink in.

Bringing the pipe away from her mouth, she then leaned forward. "Although, we haven't had a chance to properly get to know each other, hmm? I mean, I know you know much about me, just as I know much about you, but as like-minded individuals, we should really understand each other better. For instance, I'm a big believer in tradition and upholding your family's values. My father before me was honest with his money-lending practices, as am I. Of course, my father was quite the mischievous sort, and I, too, like to follow in his footsteps sometimes. Of course, you've read all the storybooks so you know how it is. Of course, what I'm wondering if you have the same values. Do you find upholding your family's values to be important?" She had this confident smirk, as if she knew something he didn't, and she was clearly implying at something. She sat back and began to explain.

"Yes, I make sure to give some attention to honored names, and if this old lady's memory holds, the Sarubis were once a ruling family of some kind, even if not for very long. Still, your family's actions are quite ambitious, and as shown by the evidence, the ambitious Youkai is much more dangerous than the fickle one, willing to do whatever he can, use whoever he can, in order to get what he wants. If it's power he wants, he's going to do whatever it takes to keep it, regardless of who suffers."

"So tell me," the Bake-Danuki Chiyoko asked, with a wide smile, "Do you have any intention to uphold your family's values? Because if it's power you seek," Chiyoko leaned in again, an intense look in her eyes, but her smile not leaving her face, "I won't hesitate to protect my own interests."

It had been some time now, and Mikado had fallen into deep conversation with the older Chiyoko. Things had taken a unexpected turn with her, as if she had all of a sudden changed personalities in the midst of lifting her pipe. In unison Mikado had raised his and took a toke before listening to Chikyoko-dono's reply."I think you're sorely mistaken if you think I'm the one you're looking for," Mikado had raised a brow at the answer, not expecting it at all he was unsure of what to do next. Until he saw the expression she had formed, this was the expression of ''Your about to get told otherwise, now listen up good amateur.'' Was this ladie really a fragile grandma?

"No, I know what you want, what you're looking to do. What you're mistaken about is how you think the underworld is run. Yes, I am indeed one of the most influential members, and indeed, I can make things happen according to my whims, but... Well, the underworld isn't some great big organization with any true structure. No, it's a free place, run by Youkai who simply decide they're not going to go by rules arbitrarily set up by someone else." Mikado had formed a smirk of his own, she indeed did know about her underworld, she was most likely right about her statement. Mikado's knowledge had been vast of the underworld, but certainly not a shred too what this woman knew, no this was no old ladie. This was what we like to call a monster in disguise, she had taken the cover of a fragile grandma but underneath that hood was a true beast. Mikado looked at his sake for a moment, before letting out a brief sigh with a quiet giggle following it. He hadn't bothered replying, instead looking at Chiyoko signalling for her to go on. Afterall, he wanted to hear all of it.


"Indeed, my power is great, but I'm no empress. I don't put a stranglehold on others and tell them what to do. I'm simply good at meeting people interests and benefiting them, and they do favour for me in turn. It's all about mutual benefit, a force that is the strength behind all interaction, from the bar to the bedroom. Us Youkai are all interested in ourselves and only ourselves, after all. So, do as you please, because I won't stop you... unless, of course, you are in the way of my interests... And likewise, be helpful to me, and I'll support you, like the good partner that I am."

Mikado took in a deep breath, this woman was certainly no amateur. He would've been disappointed if she was, after a brief moment Mikado had finally formalised a reply in his head and placed his pipe down then looked Chiyoko in the eye. ''You see Mrs Chiyoko, i'm a man with a ambition. A man with a dream you could say to gain power over the underworld, ridiculous as it may sound to you. Indeed, it is no organisation, but what if it could be turned into one.'' He picked up his pipe once again before letting go another cloud. '' I, ofcourse am talking about taking it for my own, the most influential members of the underworld all allied. Wouldn't that just be a joy? Each of them having their own followers and admirers blend in with one another and i guess you could say it would become my very own kingdom. What do you gain in all this? You don't seem like a woman who craves power, if you don't mind me saying. You instead seem like a woman, who was a born leading power not craving power but which i could offer you of course. Enough about my rambling though, please go on.'' He placed his pipe down once again, and called for the waiters for another round of sake for the both of them.

"Although, we haven't had a chance to properly get to know each other, hmm? I mean, I know you know much about me, just as I know much about you, but as like-minded individuals, we should really understand each other better. For instance, I'm a big believer in tradition and upholding your family's values. My father before me was honest with his money-lending practices, as am I. Of course, my father was quite the mischievous sort, and I, too, like to follow in his footsteps sometimes. Of course, you've read all the storybooks so you know how it is. Of course, what I'm wondering if you have the same values. Do you find upholding your family's values to be important?" Mikado had been surprised once again, this woman most likely knew about his grave past which he so hardly had tried to dig up. Yes, this was the woman he had been looking for Chiyoko-Danuki. ''Oh whatever do you mean, Chiyoko-Dono.'' Mikado had played the innocent clueless boy, he ofcourse had to hear what she had to say maybe his suspicious were for naught.


"Yes, I make sure to give some attention to honoured names, and if this old lady's memory holds, the Sarubis were once a ruling family of some kind, even if not for very long. Still, your family's actions are quite ambitious, and as shown by the evidence, the ambitious Youkai is much more dangerous than the fickle one, willing to do whatever he can, use whoever he can, in order to get what he wants. If it's power he wants, he's going to do whatever it takes to keep it, regardless of who suffers." Mikado had sat back in his chair, relaxing his arms on the chair. He's suspicions had been confirmed, this woman had indeed known about his past. She had done her research quiet well, he believed that this information was unobtainable-but fate always seems to find away . Still, he knew she was old but this old he had not yet expected. ''That you are right in, Chiyoki-dono the ambitious Youkai is indeed much more dangerous, which is why i've grown wear of you in a matter of moments. Afterall, are we so different from each other Mrs,Chiyoko. Though i will commend you on finding out about my past, it's not everyday that my skeletons in the closet are revealed.'' He had leaned in once again, picking up the fresh batch of sake.

"So tell me,Do you have any intention to uphold your family's values? Because if it's power you seek i won't hesitate to protect my own interests.''
Mikado had lowered his remaining eye, this woman certainly did have him on the ropes he would have to find a way to gain her favour and trust because it would seem it certainly couldn't be done in a old bar like this. ''I'll be upholding values, Mrs,Chiyoki though calling it my familys i would say would be abit of a stretch as these ambitions are none other then my own. As for you intrests, if a alliance between our two parties was to form it would most likely be in your best interests i would say. And i Mikado Sarubi, am a man of my word or so i like to say.'' A wide grin had formed on the face of Mikado, this arrangement wasn't going to be sorted today it would seem it would have to be a number of days. Mikado had to gain the favour of this woman, no matter what the cost. What he had to do, was earn her trust. And what better day to build trust then today, a festival of street laterns and such. Mikado stood up and slid in his chair, then walked over to Chiyoki and extended his hand. ''Well, Mrs Chiyoki i'd like to take our conversation in to some other day as i believe the nights too old for it to be resolved right now. How about we go parade the festival and see this as a moment of enjoyment, rather then business. Well?'' He had formed a strangely friendly smile, which wasn't common on his part, but he ofcourse had to get the ladie's favour. Though he was certainly weary, he had some unwanted visitors in the bar. The oni prince and his slave, they had probaly seen him or even overheard him so he had to make his way out of the bar soon aswell. Though he was more focused on Chiyoki to say so.

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As expected, Sanja had guessed right. The kitsune wags his tail excitedly, leaning in to rub his cheek against Sanja's affectionately. ❝Oh, oh! You guessed it right, Sanja-kun. My boy's so smart. Smart, smart~❞ After the words leave his mouth, it's then that they appear to be dive-bombed by some kind of bird. Though, as it lands, Susumu can see that it's just Shohei. He smiles, then, tail curling around him delicately, twitching at the end. His head cants to the side curiously, grin on his face. ❝Oh? Tell me, is that a promise or a threat? If you take off one of my arms, can I take off one of yours? An eye for an eye, right? I'd like to bargain with eyes...~❞

Susumu rather dramatically releases his hold on Sanja, pouting a bit. There's still warmth from the contact, but his body feels so much colder without Sanja's side against his. He flicks his tail again and moves to step toward Shohei, likely to tease him a bit. The tengu's true feelings are written all over his face—at least, they are to the kitsune. Such a man is used to reading people, to get under their skin, to break them down. He takes a step forward—

...—and stops.

It's then when a group of two passes them (two that, Susumu notes, he does not recognize) and the kitsune's crimson eyes widen. His posture straightens, and his ears raise. Those two look awfully suspicious... they can't be from around here. He muses this just as Shohei mentions something about 'disposing of humans.' The kitsune waves a hand dismissively at him, despite not being the one addressed, and throws a wink at Shohei. Something changes visibly about Susumu; something animal, something feral overcomes him, and it shows. His eyes almost glow, and his pupils split his irises with deep slits, much like a fox. His movements are more graceful than usual (though, what is that to say about Susumu's usual grace? he has grace, but now he's practically dancing!) as he moves toward them, fast. Within an instant, he sidles up in front of them, walking backwards to match their strides. It seems he's all but forgotten the promise he made to poor Tsuyari.

❝Did you see it? Did you see Sanja-kun's illusion? Oh, he's wonderful, isn't he? ♪ Judging by the way you're looking at me right about now, I'd say you're confused. That's fine, that's fine!❞ He opens his arms in a theatrical motion, flashing a sharp-toothed smile. ❝Let Susumu-oniisan lift those clouds from your cute little heads, yes? I suppose your parents told you not to talk to strangers? If we play a game together, we won't be strangers anymore! ♥❞

Just like that. Without any preface, without any warning, he begins his game, splaying his fingers and holding up his hands. Everything, every single thing about this man is captivating—his movements, his eyes, his face, his voice, the way his body and hips move as he speaks—in the worst way. Internally, Susumu counts the charm points of the two—the boy's eyes are nice (though they pale in comparison to Sanja-kun's, of course!), and the girl's teeth are a desirable feature, as well. He tilts his head to the side, a laugh bubbling from his throat, and it sounds like all the pleasing sounds in the world—wind chimes knocking against each other in the breeze, a cat's purr, the third highest note on a flute.

❝A murderer is condemned to death. He has to choose between three rooms. The first is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven't eaten in 3 years. Which room is safest for him? I'll give you three guesses. On the third incorrect guess, you have to tell me a secret about yourselves!❞

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Sanae slows to a halt, sighing in defeat at Satogi's words. She didn't want to have to admit it at first but... he's right. They're lost in the middle of the forest... at night. They could be stuck here forever...! What a terrible thought, Sanae! Don't just think somethin' like that! You're sendin' negative energy! The Miko shakes her head quickly and releases Satogi's hand briefly to pat her cheeks. ❝Lessee... you're right. Yep. We're lost. But! But, that don't mean I dunno how to get us un-lost. Y'know, I know how to get to the shrine from anywhere in the forest? Even at night.❞ She taps her chin in thought, turning in the direction she's about to lead everyone. ❝Would be a lil' easier if we had some kinda flashlight, but... Kyosuke-kun took Satogi-kun's. Hmm... y'know, I heard about cellphones havin' flashlights, but... I dunno how mine works. S'this way, though.❞

She points off in a direction—the right direction, this time—and starts to lead the other two off. They pass through threes and eventually, they come across a path, and there's a few lanterns to guide the way. Sanae smirks victoriously—she did it! Not that there was any doubt in the shrine maiden's mind, but she was sure that the other two might doubt her (Yukiko especially). She warns them to mind their steps. ❝They say the abandoned village's hidden by some trees at the bottom of the cliff on the other side of the shrine. Me? Well, I never saw it before, but... well, that's probably 'cause it's hidden. 'Sure if we get up to the shrine, we can find a way to get down there, y'know? And—... uh, wait. Shh.❞

She puts a finger to her lips (albeit a bit in vain; wasn't she the only one talking?) and lowers herself slightly, squinting into the darkness. She hears something, and it's not just the crickets chirping (though those are lovely sounds, too). She looks back to her companions, eyes widening slightly. ❝Am I the only one who hears... voices? Ya think someone else is out here? Could it be Kyosuke-kun and Nao-chan? Oh man, what if it's... what if it's the voices of Youkai? D'ya think we really found some?!❞

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It does take Ryuunosuke a moment to tear his gaze from whatever nondescript part of the wall he had occupied his eyes with looking to. His head turns, lids closing and opening a few times in slow, curious blinks before he realizes it's Miyako, the bar's owner. Such an honor to be greeted by the bar's owner, the Oni prince feels himself almost smile—almost. He cocks his head to the side, head still rested softly in his hand. ❝We do not come here often, Miyako-san. What do you have that is good here?❞

Ryuunosuke pauses then, glancing back to Tutsurugi. Normally, he would have the servant order for him, but tonight, on his own accord, hadn't he wandered into a bar full of all sorts of common riff-raff? He shrugs his shoulders and continues. ❝We like sake, but We have rather expensive taste. Give us your best, Miyako-san.❞ The prince lowers his eyelids delicately, looking up at her through his eyelashes. It isn't a coqurettish stare, but a rather bored one—not with her, but such is the prince's nature. Engaging words, though not so engaging expression.

Miyako had kept an easy smile on her face as she waited for Ryuunosuke's attention and it only widened when he finally replied. His words were true, he didn't come often, and usually Tutsurugi ordered for him when he did. What really suprised her, and delighted her, was that he had not insulted her or her establishment outright, unlike Sanja. She couldn't keep the flirtatious yet slightly mocking tone out of her voice when she responded. "We have plenty that's good here though not many have high standards as you and I do. I think I have something in mind. I'll bring a few bottles over so you can choose the one best to your liking." Miyako, gave a small curtsy to Ryuunosuke and then spun and walked away, a bit of a skip in her step. The oni prince was one of her favorite customers to be honest, he had such an eloquent way of speaking and he tended to cling to old customs which made Miyako reminescent of the past. As she walked away she noticed that whoever was with Chiyoko had stood. With quick movements she slipped between his four brutes and spoke to Chiyoko who had yet to rise from her seat. "Sorry for the delay Chiyo-san. If you come back later I'll make sure to put aside a bottle of your favorite for you." With a wink at her friend she slipped away and headed towards the bar.

Ryuunosuke, having watched Miyako walk back towards the bar, looks to Tutsurugi. There's a small smile on his face, then. ❝She walked off without asking what it was you wanted, Tutsurugi. Perhaps the pretty jorogumo was so taken by our royal presence, she lost her head for a moment?❞ He gives Tutsurugi a wink and looks back towards the bar, amused, waiting for Miyako to return with the sake he'd be trying.

Miyako looked over the unopened bottles behind the bar, her eyes quickly landing on what she was looking for. Grabbing three bottles from the bar she set them aside before heading into the kitchen. Tutsurugi had long ago told her exactly what type of sake she should keep on hand for his highness, it changing as the companies that made it did. He also had provided special sake cups, something that had annoyed Miyako at first but upon seeing the beautiful cup set had been unable to complain. The cups were made of pure obsidian, gold being used to decorate the outside. Grabbing both the expensive sake and the cups Miyako placed them on a silver tray she kept (honestly for the tea she had with the girls) and headed out. Stopping to grab the other three bottles of sake Miyako placed them on the tray quickly while watching the girls movements, all three somewhere out in the bar. Satisfied that none of them were harassing the guests and causing mischeif Miyako headed back over to the table where Ryuunosuke and Tutsurugi were sitting. With graceful motions she placed a cup in front of them both and then opened each bottle of sake. "I made sure to bring the one that Tutsurugi requested I keep in stock. It's been kept slightly chilled as he asked. I also brough three of the most popular sakes we have here at Rōzuu~ebu. They're made locally by a small business but everyone seems to enjoy them greatly."



❝Taste testing, then?❞ Ryuunosyuke looks vaguely amused, sitting back slightly and stretching his shoulders out. He tilts his head at her, then, face mimicing an almost disturbing childlike innocence. He smiles, but it isn't the tender smile he gives children (and Tutsurugi). It's sardonic and playful. Ah, yes. She did forget one not so minor detail, and the prince cannot resist a bit of poking fun...
❝And... what will my companion be having?❞

For a moment Miyako just looked confused,, the question not making much sense. It only took a few more second for understanding to dawn, causising her eyes to widen and for the first time in centuries, maybe even millenia, her face flushed bright red. Lowing her gaze Miyako's shoulders shifted inward almost impercetably and she did her best not to embarass herself more, responding quickly. "I'm so very sorry. I assumed you would both want the same thing. Turning towards Tutsurugi Miyako bowed and spoke with as much sincerity and formality as she could muster, which suprisingly was quite a lot. "I humbly apologize for not thinking of your needs as well Tutsurugi-sama. Please forgive my rudeness."

Ryuunosuke laughs then, and it's a sound that comes from deep in his throat—a genuine laugh, full of amusement, one that shows he found humor in the situation. He covers his mouth with his head canted towards the duo leaving the bar. Did he hear Chiyoko say something, or was it just an annoying buzzing noise going in one ear and out the other? He shrugs and laughs once more at her expense, for good measure. He waves his hand toward Miyako as if to wave off her worries. ❝Tonight, We do not join you as royal and servant. We join you to make merry, Miyako-san, though We do not blame you for not being able to look past our extravagently regal exterior. Which of these would you say is your favorite, then? We suppose Tutsurugi will have whatever We are having~❞

Miyako was once again taken off gaurd as Ryuunosuke laughed. Slowly rising she looked at him with a half empty, half confused expression until he had finished. Shaking herself, both mentally and her head physically, Miyako forced her 'hostess' smile on her face. Brightening right back up she forced herself to take the situation in stride. "Oh! Well personally I've never been able to pick a favorite. The Black,Red, and White Rose Sakes were the three original flavors though so I guess those ones. I brought you the Red, Pink, And White as those are the three most popular. Oh! And the expensive one that Tutsurugi requested. I believe it costs around 550 thousand yen so it must be wonderful. And I replace it each month so it's always fresh."

Ryuunosuke nods, then, taking the one he assumed to be the expensive one. He raises the bottle to his nose before he gingerly pours some out—himself, no less!—into the fancy cup Miyako had been oh so generous to take out. He takes the cup and deftly lifts it to his lips and takes a sip. Ah, so the taste is as good as the aroma. He nods to Miyako and reaches for another bottle to pour into another cup. ❝Our compliments, Miyako-san. You have excellent taste. Savor it, for compliments from royalty are not easy to come by. Tutsurugi, try this one!❞

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Just as Chiyoko was getting up, Miyako came along with an apology. [color=#990099"Sorry for the delay Chiyo-san. If you come back later I'll make sure to put aside a bottle of your favorite for you."[/color] With a light chuckle and a dismissive wave, the Tanuki-lady responded, "Oh, don't worry about it. You know that I'm up all night, so I'll definitely be back. You keep doing a good job, dearie." With that, she made to leave with Mikado, although she un-modestly walked ahead of him. It was merely a small gesture, but, there was definitely a message behind it.

However, as she was headed to exit, Chiyoko could hear what could have been an argument of some kind, from two unfamiliar voices. "... I suggest we get out of her. Tell our village council, and they will send out a search team for the others. Plus deal with these people as well. They don't seem.. normal. Cult members, circus people or just creepy. Whatever they are, maybe they will go to jail.. hopefully.. i dont feel safe having them so close to Komorebi." What bugged Chiyoko most was the fact that she couldn't recognize them. Chiyoko made it a point to remember a person's name when she happened to run into them, but, she couldn't pin a face or name on these voices. She just absolutely had to figure this out.

Emerging from the curtain, Chiyoko witnessed the two of them, two young people she didn't recognize in modern clothing, one of which was using her cell phone. It was not hard to make the assumption that they were humans, humans that were quite perplexed. Immediately, her Youkai nature told her that this was the perfect opportunity to play some mischief, but a rational side decided that she should probably approach this situation cautiously. It seemed as if her Youkai kin had already tormented them enough. Perhaps now was the perfect time to provide them comfort, like soft cheese on the mousetrap. Also, she couldn't allow them to escape if they were planning on contacting outside civilization about them.

Putting out her kiseru, she retrieved a couple leaves from inside her kimono's sleeve and using those, she changed her appearance in a puff of smoke. The changes were mostly minor, but, were intended to give her a more human appearance. Her hair grew out to shoulder length, her ears had disappeared, and so had her enormous tail that identified her. She also made herself look a little older, but, middle-aged at best.

Once she believed herself to be visible to the humans, she called out, "Ayiyi, are you having trouble with your phone, dear? Reception is really poor out in this little old place sometimes." Slowly, non-threateningly, Chiyoko approached the humans. "Seeing as I don't recognize you, you young folk must be from that one village over yonder, Korembi, am I right? Did you get lost this late at night? Only nocturnal animals and strange people wander around at night so deep in the forest, especially around this old place. Don't worry, though, because this old lady is willing to help. Ayi~, where are my matters? I'm just an old lady who just talks too much. You may call me Chi-Chi, that's what my grandkids called me." Smiling, Chiyoko offered a polite hand to the two teens. "And who might you youth be?"

Before entering the main shrine, Yukiko made her way over to the chouzuya. She used the ladle to scoop up a generous amount of water before pouring some of the contents over her left hand, then repeated by cleansing her right. Once her hands were purified, she poured some from the ladle into her left hand and rinsed out her mouth. After that, she rinsed her left hand once more. After she was done she replaced the ladle with the mouth pointed in the air to cleanse the rest of the ladle, as was the common tradition.

After she finished the cleansing ritual, Yukiko smiled and went toward the honden. She admired the main building for a moment. Noticing the bell, she rang it, wincing a bit, not realizing it would chime that loudly. When she entered she went to the offering box and dropped in two 5 yen offerings. Just because she was looking for Kyosuke and Nao didn't mean she could disregard the proper protocol of visiting a shrine. However, when she looked up, Yukiko was very surprised. There was a beautiful pink haired woman with... Cat ears?! She had to blink several times but then noticed someone even more otherworldly. There was a tall male with Ivory hair and he was... Glowing!

Yukiko rubbed her eyes quickly, making sure that her two brown orbs were not playing tricks on her. He was incredibly handsome, and his amethyst eyes were alarming. Even his eyelashes were white!! He looks so young though... is white hair more common in today's youth than I thought? The more she thought it out, the more she began to wonder. The question was on the tip of her tongue, all she had to do was ask. However, if she was wrong, she would have felt incredibly stupid, especially after all that bullying she went through at her previous school before moving to Komorebi village.

Yukiko bowed very stiffly, before straightening back up, "Are you... Etto... I mean... how do I put this...?" She struggled, trying to not offend the rosy and ivory haired duo. She wasn't sure how she was supposed to address the two... Senpai? Sama? What was correct? Twirling a strand of her reddish brown hair around her finger nervously, Yukiko managed to finally spit out what she was trying so hard to ask, "Are you.... actual Youkai?" She asked the two Youkai timidly, but there was an undeniable amazement in her eyes. This was what she always wanted as a child, to meet Youkai, to have tangible proof that she wasn't crazy... Yet now she was kind of nervous. She had no idea what kind of Youkai she was dealing with. What if they were malicious toward humans?

"Forgive me!" Yukiko quickly bowed again, her reddish brown hair whipping to catch up with her sudden movement. She was incredibly embarrassed that she had forgotten to introduce herself, "I am Nakahara, Yukiko... I just moved with my family to Komorebi a few months ago..." she trailed off, hoping that the Youkai would overlook her nervous fumbling. All the research, all the manga, none of it prepared her for this. While she wasn't scared yet, she did feel as though she should tread carefully. The two visible Youkai were both exceedingly beautiful, and that made her feel very uncomfortable. One she was dressed in blue jean shorts, sneakers, and a pink scarf and a thin long sleeved v neck top... that alone made her feel too casual inside of the shrine. Two she was alone with two very likely to be unidentified Youkai... Three she had no idea where her classmates were. Her anxiety matched with feeling inferior, it was an odd sensation. Compared to other humans Yukiko felt she was just a little below average looking, not ugly but definitely not gorgeous... but standing near the two Youkai she immediately felt unsightly.



The humans ran off before Tsuyari could get the girl's name, but also without answering the riddle Susumu presented to them, causing Tsuyari to pout. The girl had kissed her back, so she didn't understand what had went wrong. Normally it wasn't in Tsuyari's nature to hit on the humans, but the girl was rather adorable compared to most. What was the harm every now and then? She DID manage to not absorb the human's oxygen supply after all... so no harm was actually done...

Her blue eyes shifted to Susumu, and Tsuyari let out a soft sigh before transforming back into her preferred form. No Kitsune tails or ears, just an aqua-haired little girl wearing a white loose fitted sundress. Tsuyari stretched her arms out, her body back to its familiar figurelessness once more, "Should we follow them or continue on to the bar?" She asked curiously, tilting her head a bit. Her long blue hair shifted with her every movement and Tsuyari began to float, tired of walking even though she had only walked perhaps twenty to thirty feet that entire day, "Oh! Before I forget! What was the answer to that riddle anyway...?" Tsuyari asked in an energetic manner, always thrilled to learn more. She was inherently a Kitsune, but being on the younger side, riddles were not her strong suit. She was still learning about how to behave as a Kitsune and what was expected of her behavior wise, and Susumu's company made that a lot easier to digest. Her isolated younger years left her rather culturally shocked compared to most Kitsune her age.



Finding himself incredibly bored in his cave. It was nicer than most; clean water whenever he wanted due to the natural spring, light illuminating through a large hole in the top at the far back end of the cave, and most of all peace. No one smart trespassed upon the lair of a venomous snake. Here Takumi could brew his famous sake in peace without others attempting to seduce the ingredients out of him. He would never share those details, as it was the cure to his own venom. Sharing his secret recipe would initially be the same as ripping his fangs out. He refused to intentionally disarm himself.

Taking another sip from his sake as he laid upon his makeshift bed made from fur, both from wolves and bears. The bedding was incredibly soft despite being nestled upon a crevice of stone. His sleeping area was more like a large coffin, with the side cut out. Five feet tall, seven feet wide, and seven feet long. It was plenty of space for himself and any company, not that he ever had any consenting company anyway. It had been over a thousand years since he had shared his bed with another... well, another willing person. There were plenty of young human men he 'played' with, not to say he didn't have to use a bit of brute force...

Heh. Though very few he 'played' with in such manners ever lived to tell the tale... not that the survivors would ever admit that a male Youkai molested them to other humans.... He never understood how humans functioned. They were so cute, so timid. They always seemed to care so much about what others thought of them... Takumi wasn't even sure why being gay was considered such a bad thing. In fact, he preferred relations with men over women any day.

Taking a sip of his sake, Takumi let out a sigh and decided it was well past time to get out and socialize. He had been cooped up for far too long. He snapped his fingers and a small white snake inside of his cave immediately grew in size until it was large enough to support his weight. Takumi got on the snake, his jar of sake in tow. He never left it alone, ever. He learned his lesson many years ago and did not wish to repeat his mistakes. As he soared through the sky on the back of the snake, he noticed that Youkai Street seemed to be more lively than usual. He hopped down, despite the fall being nearly thirty feet, landing gracefully right in front of Miyako's bar. While he knew she likely would not appreciate him bringing his own Sake, he was prepared to purchase some of her own vintages as well as compensation. He simply could not part with his most prized possession.

Takumi strolled in casually, dressed in a white and salmon colored Yukata and zori sandals. He immediately noticed someone he would have never expected to run into at such a place and a huge grin spread across the ivory haired God's lips. The Hakuja no Myojin ran over to Ryuunosuke and immediately wrapped his arms around the prince in a familiar fashion, definitely considered to be far too forward when pertaining to royalty, "Ōji-sama~!" Takumi chimed, practically nuzzling his cheek against the prince's. The serpent loosened his hold on the prince a little, but did not completely remove his arms which were draped around the Oni's shoulders, "Miyako-chan~! I'll have what our prince is having~!" The serpent chimed giddily, extremely happy to be in handsome company. The prince never once accepted his advances in the past. There was no reason that the Serpent God should have felt comfortable getting friendly with the Oni Prince, but that is exactly what kept the white serpent interested in the prince in the first place. It was only after he ordered his drink that he noticed the prince's loyal companion, "Hanyo-Kun! It's been a while." Takumi smiled very kindly, despite himself being a God and Tutsrugi being a Hanyo. He really didn't pay much attention to such details anyway unless he felt he was being severely disrespected in some way.

speech: #ebd212 || thoughts: #d6c969
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Ugh. Just his luck. While he was trying to have a nice conversation with Miyako and his much loved Servant, Takumi had just happened to wander into the bar and spot him. When Takumi tries to get too cozy with him, he attempts to slide away, but Takumi catches him just in time. He grunts softly, not bothering to look over at Takumi. ❝ Had you bothered to look around you, you would have been able to discern that 'what our prince is having' is right in front of you. Would you kindly care to release us, you damned snake? ❞

The prince had come to have fun, but that seems like too much of a pipe dream now that Takumi is here. He may as well just find any happiness he can glean from this unfortunate occurrence as well as possible. He keeps still for a few moments while Takumi practically rubs himself all over the prince before he gets tired of it, and he places a hand to the snake God's chest and gives him a shove — much too rough to be considered familiar.

❝ Should you continue to handle us as though We were yours, he may kill you. ❞ A pause. ❝ Oh, on second though, you should continue — We shall attend your funeral, if only to spit on your grave. ❞

Truthfully, there's one way that the prince could rid himself of Takumi — should he pretend to reciprocate the snake's revolting feelings, surely, he would be disinterested. The thought causes Ryuunosuke to shake. He would rather die.

❝ Perhaps, though, that may take too long — if you would let us, We would like to kill you ourself. Ugh, would — you — let — go?! ❞

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speech: #c70000 || thoughts: #7a7676
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Susumu can't hide his disappointment when the teens run away, ears flattening and tail lowering. He feels inclined to follow them, to dance after the boy with pretty eyes and the girl with marvelous teeth. He takes a step, almost in a trance-like daze, to follow after them — wild, predatory instincts are taking over him, and he feels himself growl — before Tsuyari's sweet, girlish voice brings him back to reality. He shakes his head rapidly, like a dog shaking off water, and looks down at her, eyes wide and less predatory than they were mere moments ago.

❝ A stamp! Think of sending a letter, Tsuyari. You might send a letter all around the world — you could send one to America or Europe, or anywhere! — but the stamp always stays in the corner of the letter. Isn't that clever? ❞

Though the humans, for one reason or another, did not appreciate the riddle in the slightest, Susumu is confident that Tsuyari will like it. He watches after the humans that ran and spot a... curiously familiar old woman chatting them up, and he narrows his eyes. Ah, what an unlucky folly these humans are. Instead of taking my bait, they took Tanuki-chan's. They'd be much happier with the likes of me — little miss's teeth would be put to good use, and I would treat the boy right. I wouldn't mind taking care of a blind plaything...

Susumu looks back towards Tsuyari and gives a gentle smile. ❝ Do you see obaa-san over there? Does she look familiar to you? She's the vile Tanuki-chan who hates us — isn't she cruel for stealing our prey... ah, pardon me, our friends away? ❞ He laughs afterwards, but it stops abruptly.

Susumu's prey... was taken... by another Youkai...? That doesn't sound quite right. Doesn't that mean... they can be seen? It seems that it's taken watching someone else to realize the flaw. ❝ ... Tsuyari. ❞

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speech: #d10000 || thoughts: #f55858
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As they were attracting quite the crowd, Sanae steps backwards, closer to Satogi, and holds out her hand towards him, indicating she wants him to hold it. To say she was scared would be an understatement — two innocent teenagers, out in the woods at night, approaching a strange, crying woman and being approached by a totally different strange woman? This is like... scary movie stuff! Oh, God... me n' Satogi could die here! This could be it!

She feels a whine squeeze its way out of her throat, but she swallows her fear down bravely. The nice, crying lady wants to leave the other lady, it seems — so there's no way that she was here to set them up. Sanae looks from one woman to the other, clearly fearful and confused. ❝ Uh — have I ever prayed for the rain? Well... sometimes, I don't wanna go to school, so I pray for snow, but I dunno if I ever prayed for the rain? I do a lotta prayin', though! I'm a shrine maiden, y'see, so I pray a lot, an' I take care of the shrines, too! We were on our way up to one a second ago, actually, but this nice lady here's been cryin' up a storm since she got hurt... ❞ She pauses to remember what Amaya had said about the lady. ❝ Ya want us to get away from her? But... she don't really seem that bad? I think... if you will excuse us... we should get goin' to find our friends. We'll just take the lady along with us... ❞

She takes another step back, hitting Satogi's chest with her back, and nudges him with her elbow to indicate for him to step back, as well.

❝ I dunno yer name, lady, but... d'ya wanna come with us? I'll make sure ya aren't sad anymore! ❞ She gestures hurriedly to Natsumi.

❝ Had you bothered to look around you, you would have been able to discern that 'what our prince is having' is right in front of you. Would you kindly care to release us, you damned snake? ❞

"Our prince is willing to share with the likes of me? I'm honored. Would the prince wish to try some of my famous brew?" The snake smiled, little hearts and flowers practically beaming from his person. As the prince shoves him, Takumi chuckles a bit and nuzzles his face against Ryuunosuke's, taking a content breath in. He enjoyed being close to the prince because he of all Youkai refused his affections the most, "You're just so cuddly my prince!" Takumi sang out gleefully, seemingly unaffected by Ryuunosuke's harsh words and even harsher treatment. If anything, the prince shoving on him only made him want to hold on to him even more. Like it made him happy to be rejected.

❝ Should you continue to handle us as though We were yours, he may kill you. ❞ A pause. ❝ Oh, on second thought, you should continue — We shall attend your funeral if only to spit on your grave. ❞

At first, it appeared that Ryuunosuke's insult hit home with Takumi as the Serpent God paused his affectionate assault just staring at the prince in surprise, but his smile quickly returned. His playful nuzzling did as well, it seemed that the snake was only appalled by being stepped on in his true form and his advances being returned with obviously reciprocated feelings, "Just the fact you would attend my funeral makes me happy, Oni-Sama~!" Takumi wasn't exactly what one would call quiet, especially as he had been already drinking, but he wasn't entirely shouting like a drunkard yet either. Either way, if anyone was sat near them they could not help but overhear the snake. He was just too lively and bad at using an 'indoor voice'. Apparently, he was never reprimanded as a child for speaking loudly.

❝ Perhaps, though, that may take too long — if you would let us, We would like to kill you ourself. Ugh, would — you — let — go?!❞

"Killed by the prince? What a lovely and passionate ending~!" He shivered with delight, though in truth he would not so easily lay down his life, not without producing an heir at least. But that meant.... shudder. He would have to lie with a woman... The thought was almost unthinkable, but it was his duty as the current Hakuja no Myojin to continue on his bloodline... It wasn't that he disliked women, but it was not hidden knowledge that the snake preferred men. Women were great, but he couldn't see past the betrayal from his past... but those were thoughts he would rather avoid at that time. He was trying to enjoy himself, and it wasn't every day that the prince strolled into the bar. As far as Takumi was aware, this was the very first time! How exciting!

When Ryuusuke told him to let go, Takumi chuckled a bit, "Imposssssible. You're shaking mi'lord. I couldn't possibly let royalty freeze to death. Let me warm you..." Takumi chimed, his 's's in the word impossible coming out as a seductive hiss, but that wasn't any surprise to anyone who knew him. He was a serpent after all. Clinging tighter as the prince attempted to remove him, Takumi let out a whine, pretending to be offended that the prince was trying to shake him off. He wasn't sure if he would be successful in remaining glued to the prince, but it was worth a shot. In truth, he had very little body heat of his own as he was a serpent, but it was a good excuse to keep hold of the prince.



❝ A stamp! Think of sending a letter, Tsuyari. You might send a letter all around the world — you could send one to America or Europe, or anywhere! — but the stamp always stays in the corner of the letter. Isn't that clever? ❞

Azure eyes brightened like stars when he explained the answer, and the human child form of Tsuyari clapped, "Extremely. I would never have thought of that." She chimed in a cheerful manner, his riddle having perked her up after being abandoned directly after kissing the human girl. It had been her first kiss as well, but she didn't hold things so dearly as humans often did. It was just a kiss. There would be plenty more, right? Besides, it was just a girl, one that was not tainted by the adult world just yet. There was no harm in it. When her eyes landed on Chiyoko in human form, she immediately grinned. Oh, how she wanted to tease the Tanuki as she often teased her for her preference in what form to take. However, she wouldn't ruin the old lady's fun. She had her own, so she was willing to share. It wasn't like Tsuyari had any real interest in the humans, it was just fun to play with them every now and again. However, the reaction that the brunette human girl had after the kiss, it wasn't awful. She rather liked it and would like to see it again. As long as nothing real came out of it, she wouldn't mind playing with any humans that strolled into town. At least if she played with them, they would return home in one piece. She couldn't say the same for anyone who dared to play with her companion, Susumu. What am I going to do with him....? She thought to herself with a sigh, but that only made her smile a bit. Without him, she would have been far lonelier. Not to mention, most of what she knew about being a Kitsune she had learned from the ivory haired Kitsune. She owed him a lot. Her trust was one of the things she owed him, but that was something that she could not fully grant anyone, not even to Susumu.

❝ Do you see obaa-san over there? Does she look familiar to you? She's the vile Tanuki-chan who hates us — isn't she cruel for stealing our prey... ah, pardon me, our friends away? ❞

Listening to his words, Tsuyari began to feel awkward. Chiyoko while poking fun at her had never spoke to her with malice, but she knew that there was more than enough tension between Chiyoko and Susumu. As far as Tsuyari was aware, most of the Youkai she knew were at least on neutral terms with her, but it seemed Susumu had many enemies, not that she couldn't understand why, "I think she only hates you.... Susumu-sama..." she stated quietly in an uncomfortable manner. It wasn't fun admitting that she was more accepted by the Tanuki than he was, but it was what it was. While she wouldn't brag, she couldn't lie to him either. She couldn't just lie to him after everything he had done. It wasn't right, and she couldn't stomach it. She caught the word prey, blinking a bit. She didn't see them as prey per se... but it was somewhat accurate. Even though she was comparable to a fisherman who threw the fish back, and Susumu was the kind that devoured his fish without remorse... they both were treating the humans as prey in the end. It was clear that Susumu couldn't keep his mind from cooking up different ways of harming the humans, and she shook her head, "Prey and friends don't sound anything alike... nice try, Susumu-sama." She replied, unable to hold back her amused smile. Even though she knew what he had in mind for the humans, at least a general idea, she couldn't help but find it endearing that he was attempting to censor himself for her sake, "Thanks for the effort, though... I've already accepted who you are." She added with a small smile crossing her lips. Although it was distant, it was still quite warm for someone like her.

❝ ... Tsuyari. ❞

"....I think I know.... How did they see us here...? Isn't this a safe zone?" She asked the older Kitsune, her blue brow quirking questioningly. In five hundred years she never knew of humans and Youkai interacting inside of Youkai Square. At least not like this. How were they seeing all of the Youkai as if they were not hidden from the human world at all...? The thought was quite scary, and she didn't even want to think about what that would mean for her and her fellow Youkai, "....Susumu-sama? Are we safe here anymore..?" She asked worriedly, eyeing the direction of the humans. Just thinking that they could be attacked for 'poking and prodding' made her shiver. She did not want to fight, especially humans.... It wasn't in her nature.



“Yes, yes, that’s what we are. What exactly did you think we were?”

At the Bakeneko's question, Yukiko froze almost stiff as a board, "I...I just had to ask..." She began to fidget nervously, her eyes shifting between staring at her shoes and glancing back up at the Daitengu and the Bakeneko. Should she explain why she wasn't used to Youkai? Was meeting Youkai common here? Were the others playing some sick prank on her because she was so interested in them? Was the whole abandoned town a joke to get her out here to humiliate herself in front of actual Youkai? She didn't want to believe that, but she was very embarrassed, her cheeks heating up fast, "Y-You don't come across any Youkai where I used to live in the city...." she stammered softly, looking up to the Youkai for a moment to see their reactions. Afraid that this was all some kind of sick joke. Either the Youkai weren't real, or they were real and teaming up with the village in the attempt to freak out the newest family in the village.

When the Bakeneko shoved past the ivory haired man, Yukiko's eyes widened a bit, a hand clasping over her mouth. She wasn't sure which of them were older or stronger, as she had just met them, but his appearance and the way he held himself, she doubted what the rosy-haired Bakeneko had done would be taken with a grain of salt. I hope that at least most of them are benevolent toward humans...

“Don’t worry about Sanya! He acts all scary sometimes, but he’s really nice! Just don’t take his offerings, he doesn’t like that…”

Considering that a shrine was meant to honor a God or some other sort of Divine being, she dared not speak the name given to her so familiarly like the rosy-haired Youkai. She knew that disrespecting a divine being often meant ill fortune. She didn't want bad karma! Her luck had never been very great, to begin with! The words whispered in her ear made her very confused. Why would she make an offering and take others? She wished to keep her hands and head attached... however, those words made her realize that the Ivory haired man was indeed a Godlike being, if not an actual God. Being eyeballed, even if it was by another female caused Yukiko to shrink into herself. Her arms came securely to her chest and her legs clamped together nervously, her figure becoming extremely small. She was not frightened, she was just extremely embarrassed to be examined. Knowing any eyes were scrutinizing her made her insanely uncomfortable. Compared to them...she was so....plain. What was there to really look at? Her reddish brown hair? While that wasn't extremely common in the area, it was still nothing extraordinary. She didn't find herself particularly cute, attractive or anything like that, just average.

“Oh, that’s right! You don’t know any of us!”

A surprised squeak escaped Yukiko's lips as she was tugged along, her eyes glancing back to the ivory haired male Youkai to gauge his reaction to the cat woman dragging a human around in his domain. This was his shrine, yet the rosy-haired woman was treating it as if it were her own. She was incredibly confused, but she wasn't exactly sure what was appropriate for her to say aloud. She wouldn't question things too much until she had a better idea of what was going on, but more importantly, what type of Youkai these individuals were. That made all the difference. Different species had different beliefs, customs, and ways of handling humans and had different ideas of 'insulting behavior' from said humans.

“See Yuki – Mind if I call you Yuki? - that there is Sanya, he’s the big birdie in charge of the shrine. And over there is Ki! They’re a tree spirit, they're really nice! Say hi Ki! Oh, and that’s Haku and Shohei, he’s a water dragon, and Shohei’s kinda icky but he’s alright for a little birdie, plus he has lots of treasure somewhere!”

"Etto... I suppose you could...?" She replied shakily, her voice bleeding with uncertainty. She did not want to say no, especially as she was not certain exactly which kind of cat-based Youkai the woman was. When they finally stopped moving and the cat lady began pointing, her eyes fell on Sanja, whom the rosy-haired Youkai referred to as Sanya, "I-It's a pleasure to meet you, y-your shrine is lovely..." She was very shaken up and flustered, unsure, but she was quite certain that her 'tour guide' called the Deity of the shrine a 'big birdy'... Well, she assumed she meant a Daitengu, as this was a mountainous area, but she did not speak her assumption aloud in case she was incorrect.

This female Youkai was more energetic and grabby than even Sanae. She wasn't used to a complete stranger grabbing her so familiarly as if they were already great friends. However, her eyes landed on another in the room that the female Youkai referred to as 'Ki'. There were more here this whole time!? Did they see all of that? Her cheeks began to grow quite red, "H-Hello." She stated with a nervous smile towards Ki. The fact that they were a tree spirit was interesting. She had never read about those before, so she was quite curious. However, the pink haired Youkai ran through the introductions like lightning, so her attention was brought to the next person before she could converse with Ki any further. The third she was introduced to was a Water Dragon?! She couldn't believe her ears. He was so tall! Or maybe Yukiko was just short...? Though another male was introduced at the same time. Apparently, he was named Shohei and he was a little icky birdy? Yukiko was really having trouble wrapping her head around all of this information presented to her, "It's delightful to meet you both." She stated politely through her embarrassment and confusion towards Haku and Shohei.

When she was released Yukiko straightened out any creases that might have formed in her long sleeved shirt, trying to pull her scarf up to hide the blush on her cheeks as the rosy-haired Youkai struck a pose. It was like the magical girls in anime, so she couldn't help but find it incredibly adorable.

“And this key-yoot~ kitten is Rika Nekonyankoo, at your service! Meow~!”

"Hello, uhm are you a Bakeneko... or Nekomata...?" She asked curiously, tapping her cheek as she scrambled her years of being an Otaku. All that research, she needed to remember it now. Asking made her feel nervous, but the female was the least intimidating in the room so she felt it was best to ask her first. Start with the easy problems, then work her way up. Just like a Math test. It was only after the Youkai she suspected of being a Daitengu moved the one who introduced herself as Rika aside that she realized she was of similar height as him. Rika was the tallest of the three. From his posture to his smile, he made it clear that he was an elegant being. It almost reminded her of an otome or shoujo manga, but she absolutely refused to blurt something like that out. She would die on the spot of embarrassment.

"As miss Nekonyankoo has said, I am the host of this shrine. I am the Daitengu from the first age, king of the mountain and curator of the forest. I am Sanjakubo Kurama, welcome to my shrine. Your manners and offering have been noted and duly appreciated. Is there anyway I may help you miss Nakahara?"

"So I was right when she said big birdy.. he is a Daitengu after all...." She whispered under her breath to herself when she realized she had correctly guessed what species of Youkai that Sanja was. However, Rika had given her a good hint. When the aesthetically pleasing Daitengu asked if there was anything he could help her with, she immediately thought back to her friends, "First age..? Woah.." She began to wonder just how long the Daitengu had been around, and the sparkle of interest and curiosity in her eyes was not easily missed. Little did they know, she was a huge fan of Youkai, and she was doing everything in her power to hold in her fangirling. Yukiko clapped her hands together before beginning to ask her question, "A-Arigato... If it's not too much trouble, I'd just like to ask if you have come across a tall blond haired dimwit and a really pretty tall brunette girl by any chance...? We were separated in the forest... My other two friends are helping a woman, we heard her crying on the way up the steps to the shrine... My friend Sanae-chan is a shrine maiden..." Despite all of the questions she had for the plethora of Youkai she had stumbled across, her main concern was with her friends. All of her questions would have to wait until she was certain that they were safe. She would have bowed again, but the Daitengu was far too close for her to do such a thing. His height made him a little more approachable, and his sudden warm and sparkling presence almost completely distracted her, "G-Gomenasai... I've always wanted to meet Youkai... and I have so many questions.... but my friends... could any of them be in danger out there...?" Her expression was very worried. Now that she was certain there were Youkai, she was sure that there were plenty of malicious Youkai lurking about as well.

Amaya sighted and turned around to sit down on a fallen tree, using its stem as a bench. She yawned and swinged one leg over the other while moving her foot along with some silent rythm only she could hear. The girl said she did a lot of praying since she was a shrine maiden, but she was not sure if she'd ever prayed for rain. Huh, praying a lot.. But not for rain? Maya was not very happy with the answer and the human boy seemed to ignore her completely. Natsumi even spoke of deadly youkai devouring people, was that so wise? - reveal their kind? Amaya guess it did not matter, since the children was going to get absorbed anyways. Even so, she could not miss the chance to tease the mu-onna. The purple haired ameonna played nonchalant for a moment, licking her fingers slowly while humming on some melody. Then she bursted out in a soft laugh, raising her red gaze and looked at the party of three with one eyebrow higher than the other.

"Youkai? Devouring people? Look who's talking. The absorbing mu-onna! Hahaha you are so funny Natsumi.." she turned her face to the 2 children. "But suit yourselves humans, i did warn you" she smiled with a soft giggle "Let's hope you don't have any relatives or loved ones looking for you, because there won't be anything left" her words and her facial expression did not match at all. As her voice spoke of death, her face was glowing with amusement. Sadistic and teasing. Now all she had to do was wait. There was two possible outcomes - either Natsumi would "take care" of the children. Or the guys from the shrine would come here when noticing that not all 3 humans had made their way to the shrine... In both situation - there would be drama- And Amaya enjoyed a little thrill in her otherwise boring everyday life. All that was missing was the popcorn, as she still sat down on her falling tree - waiting with anticipation.

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As the chilly evening air had begun to bite her bare arms, Nao was shaking slightly- her teeth almost chattering in secret. She was confused, "Chi-chi" was inviting them to a pub? And she offered to explain everything... Well that might be interesting, but was it safe? The old lady continued talking... Nao froze when hearing the word boyfriend. Normally she would have been fast to answer but Kyo where faster. "Me and this loser? Hah! Not in a million years Grams" The answer itself was not a surprise. Hers would probably been similar. But for some strange reason, it got to her really bad. Nao's ears stopped working. She did not want to hear anymore insults. If Nao had felt a slap in her face when being called Nag, this made her heart sink to the bottom of the ocean. He was right, after all, who would ever look at her in a romantic way? Even that kiss from earlier, with the blue haired beautiful girl - had to be a joke. Yea, just make fun of the unattractive Nag.

She swallowed and her russet brown eyes seeked out the comfort with looking at her two feet who where swinging nervesly at the spot. "Ain’t that right Nao?". Nao shocked her head and bite her lower lip hard, as to keep all her anger inside. "Yea... Not even if he was the last man on earth" she managed to utter with a disgusted tone - but did not have the courage to look ether Kyo or Chi-chi in the eyes - instead she tried to peek inside through the little window of the bar. Maybe to hide her gaze shining with sadness. It was not that she actually liked Kyo or anything. probably. - he was just a troublemaker who got on her nervs really bad. But even considering that- the school prez did have feelings, and she was hurt.

"But I think we’ll take you up on that offer old lady. If you’re paying, I got no qualms with having a drink." Nao was just about to start walking and seek for a spot where her phone got signal got better, when Kyos words reached her ears. Wait... What did he just say? Nao opened her eyes wide in surprise and watched his backside as he walked inside the pub, Rōzuu~ebu. What was he thinking with? Oh right, he did not think at all - as per usual.

She sighted and rolled her eyes. It gave her no choice but to follow. Plus, she was cold - and the pub felt a bit tempting.. Not that it was a pub. But because.. It was inside... Warmth.. She closed her fists hard, her nails digging in to her palms making her face wince a bit in pain. She then released the grip and slapped her cheeks 3 times, as to prepare herself for what to come. An action which left her cheeks blushing in a vague pink shade.

"yosh..." she whispered, before entering the pub just seconds after Kyo. The pub was quite nice. Not very chaotic and lively as one would imagine. But small, well taken care of and kind of cozy. She shivered watching the goosebumps rise on her arms, feeling the warmth embrace her cold body and slowly make her feel alot better. Walking through the room, to towards Kyos table, she let her eyes wander pass the people sitting there. They looked... wierd. The clothes was unusual... And some looked more like animals than humans... Ears, tails, scary masks, and fur. Was she hallucinating again? She walked passed an albino boy clinging on to a blonde handsome man. Was this a cosplay gaybar? Hrmm...

She sat down by the table with a "humpf" choosing the seat as far away from Kyo as possible. Even tho the bar was already calm, the atmosphere seemed changed after they'd entered. Had the sound level gone down? Was people staring at them? Well, they did look kind of "out of place" and Nao guessed the residents of this village was not used to strangers coming to their place? She crossed her arms under her chest and glanced around while waiting for Chi-chi to join them with some answers!

Meanwhile a tall and creepy looking man had approached Nao from behind. She heard someone clearing his throat and she spun around on her chair to look at the man. Was that wings on his back? Seriously, what was wrong with her eyes today? "Such a pretty looking human girl. Just my type... How about joining me for a drink. A beauty like this will just go to waste by the side of that blonde one over there. He does not appreciate nor see what im seeing" his voice was soft like honey, making Nao blush but also tense up where she sat on her chair. He offered her a glass of alcohol, putting in on the table in front of her while bowing in an elegant manner. Something seemed to change tho - as the man froze in his movements and straightened his posture. "Chiyoko.. i did not realize they where your humans.. Sadly, I must leave, fair miss" he muttered but smiled hastely towards Nao, before escaping the group - but leaving the glass on the table.

Nao just blinked in confusion. Why did he call them humans? Like he was not one of them. Seriously, this was starting to get annoying. She wanted answers... As Chi-chi joined them at the table, Nao cleared her throat and raised her chin high in a confident way and placed her hands in her lap. "Im sorry for getting all impatient, lady Chi-chi. But would you be so kind to explain.. this place... you people... everything... and also, why am i hallucinating? Kyo seems fine but i keep seeing impossible things..." she said tilting her head slightly to the side, trying to catch a glimpse of Kyos reaction from the corner of her eye. There, she'd confessed to seeing things... They would probably think she was going mad. But she needed to get it out, it had troubled her for quite a while... She felt useless in this state, and she needed to be her usual smart and sharp self, since her prio 1 was to find the others... Sanae, Yukiko and Satogi. Where were they? She crossed her fingers they were safe at least...