Fantasy Clear Crimson Mirror | Private

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi listened in silence as Fudo spoke, though she could tell that such was becoming increasingly difficult for him. Here was an oni, laying on his death bed, thanking them for all they had done. He spoke of the hope they had brought, and how he was grateful to have felt that hope. A small smile had crept onto Ayumi's features as he spoke and her gaze began to swim with tears. Fudo had nothing but thanks and kind things to say, despite this end.

As Koki spoke of them making their leave, Ayumi let out a sad breath as she attempted to keep her tears on check. Fudo had slipped into unconsciousness once more. Ayumi, once again, leaned her head down to touch foreheads with Fudo one last time. "May you rest peacefully now," she whispered before sitting back up once more.

Wiping a tear away that had escaped, Ayumi took a hold of Byakuren's hand. She got to her feet, casting one last glance to Fudo before she resigned herself to being led out of the tent.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

As soon as Ayumi had placed her hand within Byakuren's grasp, the oni had drawn her closer to himself as he too couldn't help but give one final glance to Fudo. The sight was enough to put a strong feeling of determination within his heart, the war needed to end. And it needed to end quickly. There was no telling how much more damage Osamu could do if they continued to allow him to go unchallenged, and if he was seen as worthy enough to be able to pick up the mantle of Demon King, he needed to live up to the expectations that were placed upon him. He couldn't afford to be able to fail, not again. Turning his head away, he took in a breath and exhaled, bracing himself for the oasis's reaction. It felt almost as if a heavy weight had been dropped upon his shoulders.

Using his free hand, he brushed aside the tent's flap and revealed the crowd of expectant faces, the hope in their eyes made him lower his gaze as his jaw clenched. From his reaction alone, the air had became heavy as the collective crowd seemed to be filled with agony as tears were quick to follow. Byakuren was unable to find any words to say anything, what could he possibly say? It wasn't as if he could leave either without saying anything, that would just put a bad taste in his mouth. The oni was silent for a few moments longer, his body posture being tense only for him to lift his head as he forced his tone to be steady, "I wasn't able to save your leader; however I will make sure his death will not be in vain." He took in a breath, attempting to gain control of his nerves. It perhaps had been far too long since he had to address a crowd in any sort of way, and he wasn't sure if his words would strike a cord of hope within these people.

"I will see to it that you can return to your homeland, as well as make sure that no one else shares his fate. So please, don't give into your despair and remain strong." It was an awkward delivery, certainly not as eloquent as Izumi's flowery speech, or when his father would formally address a crowd, but from Byakuren's serious expression and the honesty he was trying to convey behind his words, it seemed as even though he could not stop the tears that were falling freely from the crowd's eyes, there was a spark of something within them. Was it hope? Perhaps determination? He couldn't tell, but it almost seemed as if the atmosphere had lightened up, ever so slightly.

An oni had stepped forward, one of the few defenders of the oasis who had bowed to Byakuren and Ayumi, though his eyes were filled with unshed tears, the male had turned his head upward to gaze at both of them, "We will hold your words in our hearts, Demon King. And with it, wherever you tread, know that if you need our aid; we will come. Promise us, when the final battle comes that you will permit us vengeance on behalf of our fallen." The severity and heaviness of his words had caused Byakuren's expression to turn as serious as he could possibly manage. These people were fearful, and pushed out into a desert, forced to survive on limited resources. Judging alone from the warrior's eyes, even as they were feeling endless pain over losing their leader, they wanted revenge. It was something he could empathize with, and if this was enough to keep them strong, who would he be to take that away from them.

"You have my word." He replied, and this had caused the faintest smile to cross the warrior's face as he bowed his head to them both, "Thank you." It seemed like this sentiment had spread to the rest of the crowd who in turn had bowed, though the same resolve was reflected within their eyes.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi allowed herself to be led away by Byakuren as they made their exit. She attempted, as best she could, she make her tears go away before she was outside once more. However, seeing the hopeful looks outside of the tent caused her to have to look away. Their hopeful looks made it very hard to keep the tears at bay since she knew the horrible news that would be coming for them. She stood slightly behind Byakuren as he began to speak, telling the people that he was unable to save their leader.

However, the reaction given was one Ayumi had not anticipated. She watched as determination and the need for revenge grew in the sorrow. As Byakuren gave them his word that he would permit their vengeance, Ayumi gave his hand a gentle squeeze as if to show that she agreed. In most cases, Ayumi stayed far from decisions that insights more violence and hatred. However, these people had a right to vengeance, considering the one behind the cause of the previous attack.

((sorry this is short. Not feeling well))

 

[LONELYRAIN]

(It's all good, hope you feel better soon!)

Byakuren felt a tinge of relief as Ayumi had gently squeeze his hand, considering part of him wasn't sure if she would very much approve of his encouraging the crowd's burning need for revenge, but seeing as she was supporting him; he felt at ease. This led the oni to hesitate however, now that the crowd was burning with their own determination, he didn't desire to take anything from them. However, before Byakuren could begin to express a single word on the need of some sort of supplies before they could leave the oasis, the tent's flap had moved behind him and Koki emerged, causing Byakuren to step aside. The oni's eyes were red, puffy from his tears and his hands... they were covered in the blackened ichor mixed with the crimson of blood. It was clear, he had done the deed to put Fudo to rest.

Koki had looked to Byakuren and Ayumi, his voice raw with emotion, but in this moment he was trying to remain as composed as he possibly could, "I know... I know you two aren't going to stay with us. You need supplies to travel across the desert, and we will be more than happy to provide them to you." The oni's hands clenched into tight fists as he added in a quieter tone, "..Fudo would have wanted this." Turning to the crowd, he raised a bloody hand as he raised his voice, "We know not when our paths will meet again, so let us do all we can to assist our Demon King and his mate! Hurry!" It seemed as if his words had spurred the crowd into action, despite the grieving faces, they had scattered to gather all that they could afford to provide for the journey.

Byakuren looked to Koki, the oni in question avoiding his gaze as he seemed now far more interested in looking at the desert sands, "..Thank you, though I feel as if I'm leaving far too soon-" Koki shook his head at Byakuren, raising his swollen eyes to meet their own, "No. There is no need to hesitate, as Fudo had said, so many of us has been waiting for our purpose to be fulfilled. We have the supplies to be able to spare, we only ask that both of you remain careful," Koki's attention shifted to Ayumi then, "Especially you. Although I have full faith that the Demon King can protect you, you need to be able to defend yourself and be wary of the enemies that could lay in wait. This realm is not kind, so please," It was then that the oni had reached into the folds of his clothing and out emerged a knife, though it seemed to be faintly glowing with a soft heat, "..This was Fudo's knife, I'm sure he would be grateful if you can find some use of it. Think of it as him protecting you in the chance that the Demon King cannot hasten to your side." It was a kind gesture of course, as the oni was only thinking of Ayumi's safety. He had been one to personally see on the battlefield that had been the oasis when Byakuren had went berserk... he'd much rather such a thing not happen again, for the Demon King appeared like a monster.

Byakuren's expression tensed for a few seconds, though he was reluctant for Ayumi to even so much as have to come to harm to have to use the knife, he had to admit that Koki was indeed right. There was no telling what could happen, however he had remained silent as to let Ayumi choose whether she could take it or not.

 

[Keylyn May]

(thank you. I think all the food from this week has finally caught up to me...)

Ayumi turned to see Koki coming from the tent, his hands showing witness to completing what needed to be done to bring Fudo rest. Her heart squeezed at the sight but she moved aside with Byakuren in order to give him space to address the crowd. She listened as he spoke to the crowd about gathering supplies, his actions coming from what Fudo would've wanted. She bowed her head slightly in thanks as she watched the others begin to move about camp and gather up supplies. She just hoped they wouldn't overdo it and deplete their resources while doing this for them.

Ayumi’s amber gaze turned to Koki once more as he addressed the two of them. She was silent as he spoke of the them being careful before he pointed out the obvious. Ayumi knew she had to try to be more careful, especially after the events that had transpired. Yet, she was not prepared when he produced a knife from the folds of his clothing. Ayumi stared at it as Koki explained that it was Fudo’s and felt Byakuren tense beside her as it was offered to her.

Ayumi glanced toward Byakuren momentarily before she accepted the blade from Koki. “I would be honored,” she said softly as she held the blade in her hands. There was some weight to it and it felt foreign in her grasp. Never before had she held a weapon. Her time in the human word had forbidden it and during her time here, she had relied on Byakuren who had also preferred she not have a weapon. Ayumi studied the knife within her grasp now, feeling the soft heat that it gave off. “Thank you, Koki,” she said gently.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

(Oof, I feel you on that. I ate way too much yesterday, regretting it a bit today)

Koki shook his head at her as she had thanked him, "I don't deserve such words of gratitude." Clearly the oni didn't think he was doing much by giving her Fudo's knife, as it wouldn't be of much use if she never felt the need to use it. Instead, the oni's gaze swept over the oasis now bustling with activity, "A word of caution I must give you two before you travel the sands, make sure you prepare yourself for nighttime. Those creatures often like to prowl the sands under the cover of darkness. I wouldn't want you to come under ambush, since they like to travel in packs under the orders of their generals. Once you get to the edge of the desert, you may find a village called Yuhi, if go east toward the sea, you will find them there. They are friendly to our tribe and we often trade supplies with each other, though we haven't been in contact with them for a few weeks, so I'm not currently certain what their condition is." Koki then lowered his head as he heaved a sigh, "Other than that... I cannot help you any further."

Byakuren then had spoken, "You have helped us more than enough. Thank you for everything you have done." Koki's jaw clenched at those words, almost seeming on the verge of tears again, though he forced himself to remain calm and offered a wavering, somber smile though his eyes certainly betrayed his pain. He didn't speak another word, turning away from the two and leaving Byakuren rather grim as he now looked to Ayumi and the knife she had been given. It was obvious that the blade was pulsing with magical properties... at least his eyes could see it. It was as bright as a flame, and clearly had been lovingly taken care of. As much as he was reluctant to allow Ayumi to hold it, he said quietly, "I can show you how to properly use it later. As much as I don't want you to ever use it..." He looked aside, his facial features obviously giving away his reluctance, but he didn't bother finishing the sentence. It was already clear what his stance on it was, for he had expressed it earlier. It was a necessity that he was forced to acknowledge at the moment, that sometimes he wouldn't be at her side and she needed at least something for her to defend herself with. He would be a fool if he were to keep her from knowing at least that much.

His discomfort with the topic had slowly ebbed away as soon one oni had stepped forward with one of the strange reptile-like creatures, upon its saddle was a decent amount of supplies, with enough water to carry them through the journey as well as dried meat that wouldn't spoil too quickly in the heat of the desert. There was also some spare clothes that had been supplied as well as a pelt to keep them warm when the desert's temperatures would drop severely at night. Although it wasn't too much, it was certainly a lot for them to spare on their behalf which Byakuren couldn't help but feel a bit guilty as he approached, "Thank you." The oni had bowed to them, stepping back and allowing Byakuren to then turn to Ayumi, ready to assist her to climb atop the reptile's back, and only once she was secure did he climb up behind her, his arms settling on the creature's bridle although it felt quite odd to do such a thing. Looking back, he saw the many tear-filled faces watching them, and some having bowed their heads in prayer, no doubt praying for their safety. It was a bitter goodbye certainly, but the fact they had went to far as to now send them off had caused the oni's heart to clench tightly in his chest, though his face did not betray the pain that had settled there. He truly wished he could've done more, but there was no time.

Forcing himself to look away, he coaxed the creature into a trot as it begun their journey through the desert. Slowly, the oasis began to grow smaller and smaller behind them until all that could be seen was a small dot within the endless sands that stretched behind them, and even that would vanish as well.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi listened as Koki cautioned them about the nights in the desert as well the small village at the edge of the desert. Their travels would definitely be something of new ground, and Ayumi began to wonder how the rest of their group was fairing. She thought of Yumi and how the last time they had seen each other, Byakuren was gone. Ayumi began to wonder when would be the next time they would all be reunited.

As Byakuren spoke of the knife she now held, Ayumi could see how reluctant he was to the idea. "I understand you don't like this," she said gently, "but I do need to start being able to at least defend myself." Perhaps if she had been able to help, Fudo wouldn't be dead right now. "With any luck, I won't have to use it."

When everything was gathered and their mount delivered to them, Ayumi took hold of Byakuren as he helped her up. She shifted to get comfortable as he climbed up along with her, not knowing exactly how long they would be riding. She was grateful to the oasis for giving them as much as they had. Ayumi watched the oasis grow smaller until she could no longer see it, and then turned her gaze to the seemingly endless sands before them.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

As they progressed through the sands, with the setting sun casting a warm hue over the desert, it was an almost pretty sight. The skies were tinged with reds and pinks, with soft clouds traveling slowly overhead, and the only sound filling the air was their unusual mount's hooves sinking into the sand below. However, despite the peace of the silence that the desert was providing, the heat couldn't be ignored. Throughout the day, the sun's relentless rays had long since been soaked up by the sands below them, certainly making the journey slightly uncomfortable even for Byakuren, though the oni wasn't going to complain anytime soon. He was attempting to make the journey as comfortable as possible for Ayumi, thus he had slightly shifted his position so that she wouldn't feel the full brunt of the rocking pace of the animal beneath them, as the saddle provided little comfort, though he could do little to help shield her from the heat.

This nonstop, relatively quick pace had continued long past the sun had sank away from view, eventually with its dying light had brought out the night skies and with it the full moon which illuminated the desert below, providing some sort of light that Byakuren could rely on. Of course, by now the oni could certainly feel the lasting effects of riding, with the inside of his thighs feeling as if they had been rubbed raw, by not only the saddle but the creature's rough scales that he could feel through the very thin protection of the saddle. A thin sheen of sweat had settled upon his pale skin as well, though he still hadn't voiced an audible complaint, and instead a sound akin to relief had left him as soon as his ears could faintly hear the sound of the ocean, and his keen sense of smell could already pick up the faint salty breeze upon the now chilly winds that came with the desert. Certainly, Koki had been correct about the sheer temperature change between night and day. As the minutes ticked by, Byakuren could begin to see his own breath before himself which made the oni draw Ayumi closer to his own body, hoping to provide some warmth to her with his body heat, as his skin still remained hot even if he currently was feeling the biting cold beginning to gnaw at his skin. The garments that they had been provided only seemed to be a safeguard against overheating, not so much the chill of cold.

However, it seemed before it could become far too unbearable, the ocean had came into view. The calm waters reflecting the moonlight as Byakuren began to guide their mount across the coastline, sticking closer to the ocean as he kept a watchful eye on their surroundings, remembering the clear warning about Osamu's creatures venturing during the cloak of night. It seemed that luck had smiled upon them, since not one creature would appear in the remaining stretch of their journey to the village of Yuhi... though what awaited them was something that Byakuren was unprepared for, nor could any single person prepare for.

Amidst the sand of the coastline, it soon gave way to a path that had been distinctively marked no doubt for travelers which the mount seemed to automatically follow, granted now more at a slower and more relaxed pace as soon what would appear to be a sign post with faded characters read "Yuhi". However, before they got even remotely close to the village's entrance, Byakuren suddenly pulled back on the reigns as his body went rigid. The smell of blood was overpowering his senses and made his skin crawl, however the mount seemed to ignore Byakuren's apprehension and kept moving forward, revealing what would be a simple fishing village having been ransacked. Blood flowed over the dirt of the village's pathway as the dead lined the path, though mostly consisting of women and elders. The most haunting sight however was the blood soaked tree in the center of the village, though appearing strange in coloration, blackened and crooked, it was clear that the men of the village had been strung up, their corpses swaying from the tree's branches and coating the floor. It was at this point that their mount had stopped, leaving Byakuren tense as he looked about wildly, though he could smell nothing. Whatever... or whoever had done this had long since left, though he could've sworn he heard something moving-

Before he could finish that thought, a weak voice had called out, "Y-you fools! What are you doing here?" His attention finally rested upon an oni who was fearfully poking her head out from one of the blood splattered houses, she appeared somewhat young although it was hard to tell due to most of her face being wrapped up in tight bandages concealing some manner of deep gouges upon her skin. She waved them over quickly, hissing, "Ditch the mount quickly before the children come!" That sentence made Byakuren's expression twist in confusion, but nonetheless due to the severity of their surroundings, he had slipped off the mount, grasping hold of the supplies and slinging them over his shoulder before he reached out to Ayumi wordlessly to help her down.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi sat on the mount of the strange beast as the seemingly endless sands kept passing by. Time seemed to drag, though Ayumi didn't say a word. This time of silence may be the only time of silence they would get upon arriving at their next destination. She simply decided, instead, to take this as it was: time to let everything process and sink in that has so far happened. As her thoughts danced around in her head, she did enjoy the colors offered by the evening sky, a small blessing that she savored in her memory. It was best to take small blessings as you could get them now.

As the ride went on and the sun began to sink away, Ayumi had felt Byakuren shift at one point in order to try to offer her more comfort. Even if he did not remember her fully, he was still trying to ensure the best for her. In the folds of her clothing, she could feel the slight weight that now hung there thanks to the knife given to her. The warmth it seemed to give, along with the heat of the desert, served to keep her quite warm for some time. However, as the sun sank away and the evening sky turned dark, Ayumi could feel the cold seeping in. She watched as she slowly began to see her breathe, feeling Byakuren as he pulled her close. Welcoming his attempts to keep her warm, Ayumi snuggled as best she could against him, stifling a yawn as she did so.

This day had been long and draining. The events had sent her on a physical and emotional rollercoaster that she had hardly had time to process. Now it was catching up to her. Ever so slowly, Ayumi's eyes began to close as the rhythm of the mount's strides and the feel of Byakuren's arms around her seemed to begin luring her to sleep's embrace. Ayumi had only slipped into sleep for a few moments when she felt Byakuren stiffen and she woke up to see that they had neared the ocean and the village of Yuhi that Koki had spoken of. Yet as Ayumi rubbed her eyes, she could tell something was off. She also knew that Byakuren had sensed this with his stiffened form. It was the sight of the blood-soaked tree that made her heart drop, already knowing the possible fate of this village.

Ayumu nearly jumped out of her skin, however, when a voice came out of the darkness. Her amber gaze turned to land on a female oni as she peeked out from a house, wrapped in bandages and gauze. Confusion lit Ayumi's gaze at the oni's words. Why did she mean by children? Why did she seem so worried about children? She looked down at Byakuren as he made quick on the female's words, accepting his help down without delay. "Byakuren?" She looked up at him, her amber gaze displaying her confusion and uncertainty about this situation.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

Byakuren met Ayumi's gaze, though it seemed his own eyes reflected her confusion. He wasn't sure what to make of the situation, but he did know that he'd much rather not take any unnecessary risks while they were out in the open. It was nighttime, and there was no telling what could happen if they decide to ignore the oni's warning. As much as he didn't want to put some faith in a complete stranger... they didn't have much of a choice, and if anything Byakuren was now thinking of prioritizing Ayumi's safety over his own. So, he had leaned closer to her and whispered, "Stay close to my side." It was a necessary precaution, just in case this stranger was planning on turning on them. He had no idea what to expect, and right now he was completely on guard, any wrong movements he would perceive as suspicious, he wouldn't hesitate to react to defend Ayumi. Who could truly blame him?

So, the oni had grasped hold of her hand with his free one and had cautiously approached, grimacing at the strong smell of blood wafting through the air with every step he took. Eventually, he had approached the stranger in which she had opened up her ruined home to them fully, waving them hastily inside. Only once were they inside and the door securely closed behind them did he take in how severe the oni's condition was. She appeared no older than Yumi, and currently was leaning on the support of what used to be an old fishing pole, one of her legs having been obviously broken with lacerations and deep teeth marks on her skin. She was shivering from head to toe, whether it from the cold or due to fear, and her crimson eyes darted rapidly between Ayumi and Byakuren as if she couldn't believe they were actually there. Though her condition was concerning, Byakuren also took in the small house they had been invited into rather hastily, and it seemed relatively intact with a tiny lantern positioned toward the very back of the single room they were taking shelter in. This was the only light source, proving to be rather dim and not truly helping anyone to see much. Anything else such as personal belongings weren't out in the open, and if they were, it was far too difficult to pick it out from the dark shapes of wooden stools or tables. There truly was nothing suspicious in the house which had allowed Byakuren to slightly ease off from the idea of needing to fight, as his attention fully turned back to the strange female who had dared to speak, "You two should have never came here, this place is no longer safe!" Her throat seemed to strain as she said those words, only for her to suck in a breath as if it seemed like it hurt for her to speak.

However, she continued speaking despite her obvious pain, "If the children would have spotted you as you were riding in, you two would have been dead! Dead!" As if to emphasize her point, she had pointed with a shaky hand to the door behind them, clearly being spooked beyond making rational sense which made Byakuren frown, his eyebrows furrowing. Considering Koki had said that the oasis hadn't come in contact with the village for a few weeks, whatever had happened had left this one villager scarred beyond making clear sense. So, before the female could even so much as continue in her fear-filled rambling, Byakuren had interjected, "Please, slow down and tell us what had happened from the beginning... no, before that, who are you?" Any sort of identification first would be beneficial, although he also hoped that could possibly calm the rattled villager down. She seemed mere seconds away from having a breakdown, if she hadn't already succumbed to one beforehand.

This seemed to make the woman stop, her wild crimson eyes turning once more between Ayumi and Byakuren, "Mariko." Mariko had stepped away from them, leaning upon her rather flimsy support as she waved for them to come to sit by the lantern's light, which was as far away from the door as possible as she quickly explained, "They're attracted to bright lights, for now please sit near the lantern and I'll tell you what you need to know. But," She paused midsentence and fixed both of them with an icy stare, "Promise me you will not leave until sunrise. I don't want to see more dead." The desperation behind her gaze seemed genuine enough, causing Byakuren to look to Ayumi for a few seconds. In an ideal situation, he would have preferred to have found somewhere far more safe, considering Ayumi had nearly fallen asleep on the journey to the village. However, it wasn't as if they had a choice, and this seemed to be the best place for them to rest for now. Reluctantly, Byakuren had nodded his head, which in response Mariko had visibly relaxed as she had limped her way over to the lantern and had plopped down on the wooden floor, her shoulders sagging as if she suddenly had no energy. It would be almost a pitiful sight if Byakuren wasn't already suspicious of her.

So, he approached where the lantern was, settling down the supplies they had been given behind him as he seemed to take the spot closest to Mariko, as to provide a barrier between her and Ayumi. Considering the way he was eyeing the female oni, he didn't trust her whatsoever, but if Mariko had noticed, she didn't seem to react at all. Instead, she had started with, "..The children are.. or was some human children we had been taking care of, as well as some of our own young. I don't know what had happened to them to cause them to change but... they turned into monsters." Her hands clenched tightly into fists before her, trembling from head to toe, "Each and every single one of them... and they did that." She pointed again to the doors, meaning the absolute carnage that lay just outside as tears of fear began to swell in her eyes. It didn't seem as if she were acting since her fear seemed absolutely genuine at this point, and her injuries also were quite severe and almost seemed as if a beast had gotten to her. This caused Byakuren to lower his gaze as now he seemed disturbed. He had no clue what his father was doing, but this reeked of more experimentation. As for what, he didn't even want to begin to imagine the full extent of it.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi didn't hesitate in remaining next to Byakuren as her gaze swept over the destruction around the small house before them. Any sleep that was attempting the cling to Ayumi previously was driven way by the uneasiness of the entire situation. As they entered the dimly lit hut, and the female oni before them began to ramble about how unsafe it was here, Ayumi grew all the more uneasy. She had understood that Koki mentioned not having contact with this village for a few weeks, but she had hoped that such events hadn't made their way here. It seems her hopes were dashed.

Ayumi's gaze studied the oni as she gave her name, looking at the wounds the female was harboring. Her stomach dropped at the sight, especially when they were made to promise that they wouldn't be leaving. Ayumi was certain that no rest would come to her or Byakuren tonight while they remained in this place. As they moved closer to the lamp for information, Ayumi took note of Byakuren sitting closer to the female in order to remain between the two of them. Ayumi settled as best she could in the uneasy atmosphere, her gaze dancing to everything around them. However, it was the mention of human children that brought Ayumi's gaze back to Mariko.

"Human children?" she asked softly, leaning in ever so slightly. "Why were there human children here?" She glanced between Byakuren and Mariko. From what Ayumi had grown to understand in this realm, the humans that were normally seen here were taken from the human realm and held in captivity. Ayumi's stomach turned at the thought that the same fate was given to human children.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

Mariko's attention shifted to Ayumi as her eyebrows furrowed in confusion, "You don't know?" To the villager, it was odd to see a human that wasn't aware of what had been happening in the three years within the Fire Lands. Even the most rural villages knew of what the capital city did in the cover of night. "W-we were rescuing them from the capital to live a normal life here. They were the last of the children we saved." Her arms crossed before her as she lowered her gaze to the lantern before them, "Even we thought that the torture their parents were subjected to, and even they themselves was too much... If you don't know then I suppose you're not from around here. Count your lucky stars that you are not."

She looked up between Ayumi and Byakuren, her expression severe, "They usually are eaten by the nobles here." That caused Byakuren to visibly tense, his eyes narrowing as he hissed, "What?" The sudden aggression in his tone had caused Mariko to lean away from him, a tinge of fear sparking in her eyes, "I-I'm telling you the truth, I swear!" She lowered her eyes to her hands, now trembling, "The nobles in the capital they.. they all listen to her, because the Demon King tells them that human beings are nothing to us. That if we consume their flesh and blood, we will be awakened to our true selves. And the nobles themselves have changed since she had showed up in Girou's harem." The oni female scowled, her expression turning to one of disgust, "So, our village had become a refuge to the children since their parents are unable to escape."

Byakuren's expression at this point seemed hard to read, though his hands were clenched into tight fists, though he took in a breath and sharply exhaled. Whoever was encouraging this was far beyond merely depraved. "...If you are absolutely certain this is occurring, why hasn't Girou taken any action?" Girou was the Demon Lord, surely he was well aware what was happening with the nobility by now, and if Osamu had convinced the nobility to feast upon human beings... just how deep did this rabbit hole go? Did he already sow seeds of corruption within the nobility? If he convinces enough people to his twisted way of thinking, then things certainly weren't going to look up for the Resistance forces or any Demon Lord who was still fighting against Osamu. What the hell are you doing, Girou?! The angry thought seemed to repeat in Byakuren's mind as Mariko had shook her head at him.

"It's because Girou already is enraptured by her. She is his favorite lover from his harem, or so the rumors say. Some even say that she may replace his mate, Nefari." Mariko's lips turned down in a scowl, "But, she just reeks of being a strong supporter of Demon King Osamu, though I have no clue why Girou puts up with her behavior since she's blatantly tipping the scales out of his favor." Byakuren's arms crossed then as he was lost in thought. Clearly something was wrong there, even if Girou was quite fond of his harem, Nefari had been his official mate to the public. In his faded memories, he often recalled how obsessive Girou was over his official mate. For his affections to suddenly turn to this unknown female... it just didn't seem quite right.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi thought she would be sick. To heat that noble oni ate children here was enough to make her stomach turn. Shifting, Ayumi looked away from Mariko. However, she was still keen to listen to what was being said. Someone new was causing this. She had heard of harems before in the human realm, though she had never witnessed one. It would appear that they work similarly here as well. Ayumi was never fond of this idea. She could never understand why any woman would stand for such a thing from her husband.

At the mention of Girou and Nefari, Ayumi imagined them from the night of the ball when Yumi announced she was pregnant. It was also the night she first told Byakuren that she felt more for him than she should've. Girou and Nefari had been kind enough to her while at the ball. Girou had even invited Byakuren to come to the Fire Lands. Whoever this new woman was in his harem must be something neither of them have encountered before to be able to turn those two oni to act completely different.

Ayumi looked to Byakuren as he seemed to be taking everything in. He seemed to recall who Girou and Nefari were and wondered if his thoughts were along the same as her own. "And... And these children," she started gently, her skin slightly pale, "They still come around here? You seemed afraid of them coming back when you spotted us."

 

[LONELYRAIN]

Mariko's own face paled as she nodded her head rapidly at Ayumi's question, "Y-yes, they're still here. Every night they come with an oni with a deer's skull for a head." She shuddered as her arms wrapped around her middle, rocking back and forth as fear settled within her crimson eyes, "And he would make them drink something before he leaves them to roam. Immediately after the children go into a frenzy." She closed her eyes tight as she whimpered, "They kill anything in their sights, they're nothing like the children we were trying to protect- ah!" She suddenly scrambled to the nearest wall, pressing her ear against it as her body began to tremble again, whispering to Byakuren and Ayumi, her eyes filling with tears, "Th-they're here. L-look." She had pointed then to a small gap in between the shabby building's wooden walls, which would give a clear view of what was happening.

Byakuren's blood felt as if it were boiling within his veins, though the mention of Saburo had made a low growl rumble in his throat. Granted, he made sure he remained as quiet as possible, struggling to restrain the rage that had flared up within him as he looked through the gap in the wall, peering at the sight that would without a doubt make him more so enraged.

...​

Outside from their shelter, the sounds of giggling could be heard as a small group of children was walking behind Saburo, the oni's eyes showing nothing but annoyance as they pulled at his arms and the edges of his armor. "Saburo! Saburo! Can we have more of the juice?" The general had slowed his steps as he looked down at the human children running about his legs, one in particular clinging to him with pleading eyes. In all honesty, Saburo thought this particular experiment was a waste of time. After he had given the vial of Osamu's blood to Yura earlier, the oni had then been secretly poisoning these human children with that very same blood on Osamu's orders. Though it certainly had changed them into monstrous little brats, it was only a matter of time before Osamu's blood will kill them. Even now, he could see the effects of Osamu's blood within them, from their increased taste for violence to the occasional trembling of their limbs, even their irises were slowly beginning to turn red, akin to an oni's eyes: granted not as bright. And they were addicted to the taste of the Demon King's blood.

The general snorted, disgust settling in his heart. Why did he have to take care of these useless souls? It was a waste of his talent, and certainly Yura was far less busy than he with her elaborate parties for the nobility. With the same disgust, he grasped hold of the child clinging to him, gripping the human child's hair and wrenching the little boy's head back, causing the child to cry out in pain as he then tossed the boy to the ground before him, saying coldly, "Let this be a warning, do not refer to me so familiarly. I am not your father, and I am not your friend." Of course, as expected the children cowered before him though the boy he had tossed to the ground had quickly sat up as if unaffected, though his reddened eyes seemed to be filling up with tears, "B-but, I'm thirsty.." This pitiful declaration was repeated by the children surrounding him causing the general to grumble as he reached to a satchel at his side, taking out the vial of Osamu's blood and tossing it before the children, "Here, drink."

He watched in contempt as the children immediately set to attacking the vial, though this resulted in them fighting each other. Pulling hair, biting, kicking and the occasional punch. They were like animals, and it was the only entertainment Saburo received whenever he had to visit Yuhi with the pathetic children tagging alongside him. A chuckle left him as he continued to watch them fight one another; making no movements to stop them whatsoever from hurting one another.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi’s blood turned icy as Mariko spoke of an on with a deer skull for a head. Saburo... Flashes of the battle on the beach when Byakuren had found their group came to Ayumi’s mind and how close Saburo had been to defeating Byakuren there. Of course, Ayumi believed that now any battle would weigh differently thanks to the mirror, but Saburo was enough to send fear coursing through her. He was a terrifying opponent to see Byakuren go up against. She caught Byakuren’s soft growl at the description of Saburo, and hoped he wasn't thinking of anything rash. Yet, Ayumi’s attention came out of her troubled thoughts when Mariko grew tense and spoke of ‘them’ being here.

Ayumi watched as Byakuren move to look through the crack in the wall, though she remained where she was. She wasn't sure she wanted to witness these terrifying children that Mariko had described. Yet, as she listened, Ayumi could hear the laughter they were giving. If she wasn't so apprehensive, it was nearly enough to male her smile. It was in their laughter, however, that they were calling that horrid name. Then Ayumi heard one scream.

She quickly clamped a hand over her lips to keep any noise from coming, ktnowing that they needed to remain as hidden as possible at this time. Ayumi could make out several voices saying they were thirsty though. It must be the drink Mariko mentioned... Ayumi heard what was apparently Saburo giving into their begging as horrid sounds of fighting filled the air. Ayumi shut her eyes, waiting for them to stop and yet the end did not come. She imagine Saburo either was enjoying the sight or simply didn't care since the screams continued on.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

As Saburo was content to watch the children fight one another, though soon displeasure filled him as he realized one of them in particular seemed to have stopped and was backing away from the other fighting children. This one he could remember wasn't taking too well to Osamu's blood. The child in particular was trembling from head to toe, though when he noticed Saburo staring at him, a terrified squeak had left the child's lips as the general approached him, having lost interest in the viciously fighting children behind him. "What is wrong with you now, boy?" His tone seemed to make the child quiver in fear as he looked away from him, "I.. I don't want to fight anymore." Interesting... and incredibly disappointing. It was an outlier for certain, as usually Osamu's blood would be enough to entice a thirst for violence in the most gentle human soul, but this one didn't seem so enthusiastic. The general knelt to one knee, "And why is that? Your friends seem to be doing just fine-"

He looked over his shoulder as he heard a distinct snap, one of the children falling lifeless to the ground, the clinking of the vial reaching him as he corrected, "...Most of your friends are doing fine." The boy's eyes seemed to well up as he looked away, though his eyes were trying to avoid looking at any corpses of any sort causing the oni to release a sigh of disappointment as he grasped hold of one of his distinctive acidic swords, drawing the blade from its sheath as he said in a bored tone, "How disappointing. I expected more from you." The boy's fear was apparent as he shook his head rapidly, backing up from the blade as Saburo's skull clacked together, almost akin to cackling. And then the boy ran. He ran as quickly as his legs could take him, breathing coming in quick gasps as he was running in the direction of the house that Byakuren, Ayumi, and Mariko was taking shelter, drawing ever nearer... until he didn't make it.

Saburo watched as he approached the house, lifting his sword and with disturbing aim, the sword had met its mark. A blood chilling cry had left the boy's lips as the sword impaled him through his middle, pinning his body to the house and with it, the acidic blade sizzled and popped at the poor soul's blood. Mariko herself had scrambled back as far away from Saburo's sword as possible, her eyes growing wide as Byakuren had immediately reacted, pulling Ayumi close to him and away from clear view as his jaw clenched tightly, meeting the gaze of the child now helplessly pinned. The child's eye could be now seen through the small peephole, red eyes filling with tears as he could see the people he had never seen before inside, barely managing to choke out, "..I.. don't... want to... die.." A plea so helpless, but it was silenced as Saburo's heavy footsteps could soon be heard as the oni clicked his tongue, "What a waste."

With such cruel words being uttered, he grasped the hilt of his sword and ripped the blade free, the boy's body falling away from the building with it though the oni had lingered. Was that light he saw through the cracks? Curiosity sparked within him as he took a step closer, though he stopped as soon as he heard one of the children behind him, "Saburo! Saburo! Is there any more? There was so little left!" The general's skull clicked in irritation as he turned away from the trio's hiding spot, "Damn it. What did I say about having a taste?!" The general stomped off, heading back toward the children who were remaining, though the children certainly didn't seem too affected by the two deaths among their numbers, far more concerned about obtaining more of the "juice" that the general carried.

As Saburo had walked off, with the children's voices growing fainter, it was taking all that Byakuren could have in him to not go out and personally attack Saburo. The oni's heartbeat was quick with anger as he could only stare where the child had been mere moments before, his grip around Ayumi tightening as he hissed in frustration. Even if he was stronger now, he wouldn't try to attack Saburo while Ayumi could potentially be harmed, but his eyes never left the sizzling hole where Saburo's sword had previously been. Mariko on the other hand was trembling from head to toe as she had placed her hands over her mouth, tears springing free as she whimpered, "K-Kenta... I'm sorry..." The villager had stifled her sobbing at the very least, but whoever the boy had been clearly had struck deep within the female oni.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi listened as Saburo seemed to be questioning one boy in particular. From the boy's words, it seemed he wasn't going after whatever it was the Saburo had thrown to the rest of the children. Ayumi could hear that Saburo didn't seem pleased by this, yet she would never have guessed the events that followed would unfold the way that they had. She had heard how Saburo seemed to be trying to reason with the child. However, when that didn't work, everything shifted quickly.

Ayumi could hear the pounding of small feet coming closer, and she imagined that the boy was coming closer. She turned her gaze to the wall and could see a figure growing closer through several cracks. She almost willed the child to reach the house, and he did, but not in the way that she had wanted. The sword was the first thing she saw as it pierced the wall, the action causing her to jump. It was the thud of the small body against the wall that caused her to nearly cry out. As Byakuren pulled her close, she clamped a hand over her mouth and turned her face to rest against Byakuren's chest. Her eyes were closed tightly to try to block any sight of what was happening.

She could hear Saburo coming close now and felt Byakuren tense. She could hear the cruel words that Saburo spoke and the sound of the sword being removed from the wall. She willed herself not to make a sound, remaining deathly still except for the small shakes of fear from her body. Ayumi remained as she was as the laughter of children grew farther away, catching the name of the child on in Mariko's whimpers. "He's a monster," Ayumi whispered against Byakuren's clothing, shaking her head slightly. "Pure evil in every word..."

 

[LONELYRAIN]

Byakuren's gaze turned down to Ayumi as she had shook her head. He could feel her terror, the stench of fear like a dense cloud within their small hiding spot. His lips pressed into a tight line as he held her tighter to him, the anger that had coiled tight within his chest beginning to ease as he whispered, "I know." His gaze turned to Mariko who was still whimpering, tears flowing down the female's cheeks. Although he knew both Ayumi and this stranger were without a doubt shaken from the atrocious sight they had witnessed, he needed more answers immediately. The children from what he could see were without a doubt corrupted, although from what exactly... he did not know. The very little he had viewed was enough to make his blood boil, and something obviously needed to be done as soon as possible.

"Who is the person you've mentioned before in Girou's harem?" His tone was cold, as he was trying to put together suspects he could eventually turn his anger on. Although with the war, it without a doubt brought many atrocities to the oni who had to suffer -- or rather those who were not in Osamu's good graces. Unfortunately, it seemed as if Osamu had deemed this village in particular as useless and instead had turned it into a testing zone, though for what purpose was unknown. Even in his fractured mind, he knew that his father simply didn't do cruel acts without a reason, there was always a reason for his experiments or his acts of violence. But, for now the reason for this cruel act was eluding him as such a small village surely couldn't pose much of a threat and was located far away from any notable cities.

Mariko's eyes turned to face Byakuren, her lips trembling as she struggled to take in a breath to attempt to calm her nerves. "Y-Y-Yura." A frown crossed Byakuren's face as his eyes narrowed. He couldn't recall such a name being among Osamu's generals, even during his somehow vivid recollection of the years he had been kept prisoner by his own father. Perhaps whoever this Yura was had been already integrated into Girou's harem, or perhaps was appointed after Byakuren had finally made his escape. Nonetheless, this would make things slightly more difficult as if he didn't know the general, he wouldn't know what they were capable of. "I see." His response was simple, empty as the gears were turning in his mind. Obviously, whoever this Yura was, they were an issue, especially if they were controlling Girou. Most likely trying to rot the Fire Nation from the inside out. He closed his eyes and a heavy sigh left his lips.

His hand gently rested upon the top of Ayumi's head, gently stroking her as if to attempt to calm her down, if he could smell her fear so strongly right now, he could imagine that it could be detected outside of their less than optimal hiding spot. However, as he had opened his mouth to possibly attempt to calm her, his body went rigid as he heard a child's voice from outside of the house, "Aww, I guess Kenta finally died, huh?" Where the boy's body was, there was a ripping sound which Byakuren immediately moved Ayumi further away from the wall, shielding her from the sight as he could see a boy now gleefully holding what appeared to be an arm as the boy giggled, his eyes glowing a bright ominous red, "Hey hey, Oto, come over here!" There was another sound of footsteps that skidded to a halt beside the other child, followed by sniffing and the other boy's voice gleefully rang out, "Oh, is there someone in there? I guess Kenta dying here was good enough for us! So- ah!" There was a scuffling sound as inhuman growls echoed from outside of the wall, the first boy's snarl ringing out, "I found it first! You can't just barge in without- ow!"

Byakuren's teeth gritted together as his eyes narrowed. This was bad, they had been discovered.

His head turned to Mariko who looked petrified, as he hissed to her, "Are there any other hiding spots in here?" Mariko's wide eyes turned to look at Byakuren as she raised a hand and shakily pointed toward an overturned table in the very far corner of the room, cloaked in darkness which had a old, patchy blanket draped over it. It wasn't the best, but it had to do for now. "..Ayumi, go with Mariko to hide. Now." From the sounds of the children's fight outside, they had a small amount of time available to them to be able to hide from view. Time was not on their side.

 

[Keylyn May]

{{ I just looked at this today, hoping all was well with you }}

Ayumi felt Byakuren pull her tighter to himself, pressing her face into his clothing as she attempted to calm herself. However, her efforts were nearly in vain. She could still hear what had been said, the sound of a sword piercing the small body and the wood, and Girou's final words. She screwed her eyes shut as Byakuren seemed to be searching for answers from Mariko. Whoever was behind this was also a monster, perhaps even worse than Girou. I hope we never meet. While Ayumi knew that such a person had to be stopped, she hoped they didn't come face to face with them. For someone to do this to anyone else, especially children, made Ayumi imagine how cold and heartless they must be.

Ayumi felt Byakuren's hand move to rest upon her head, stroking her hair as if to comfort her. She drew in a deep breath in an attempt to comply with the comfort, but such was not to happen. Ayumi felt Byakuren tense and she practically held her own breath as she heard another child's voice just beyond the house. She heard the grotesque sound of tearing as Byakuren moved her away from the wall, away from the sight. She placed her hands over her mouth as the sound, biting her tongue as her stomach turned. You can't get sick. Not here. Not now. She willed herself to keep her stomach's contents down, her body shaking with the effort paired with her fear. If the children had come back, would Girou also be close by?

She looked up as Byakuren asked about other hiding places, watching as Mariko pointed to the distant table. It was overturned, covered with a blanket, and deep in the darkness. Her amber, fear-stricken gaze turned to Byakuren as he spoke of going to hide with Mariko. She didn't dare argue with him now. She gave a nod and shakily got to her feet as she willed herself to release him. She quickly made her way towards the table, though she was careful to keep her footing as light as she could. Her heart jumped with every sound, her gaze on the door of the hut as she knew the children were just outside and surely listening closely.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

(Yep, I've been alright, just been consumed with Final Fantasy 14 lately, as well as a lot of irl stuff that has been happening, but nothing too major. Hope everything is going well with you as well!)

Byakuren's gaze had followed Ayumi as she had moved toward the hiding spot with Mariko not too far behind her. As soon as Ayumi had hid with Mariko grabbing hold of the blanket and covering the spot completely, it seemed as if the fighting had stopped from outside and the flimsy wood wall of the worn down hut had splintered, with the heavy sound of a foot kicking in the wood until finally with a loud crack the wood had caved in revealing a single boy who was standing over now two bodies, blood smearing the child's grinning lips, glee obviously sparkling in the boy's eyes as his eyes focused on Byakuren. "Oh? I thought there was more in here?" The boy pointed to his nose, "I can smell them still after all. You wouldn't be hiding them, would you mister? That wouldn't be too much fun!"

In response, Byakuren's expression tensed. By all means, the child before him was obviously human. His scent didn't betray any sort of mixed blood, but to have such heightened senses enough to be able to pick up keenly upon scents; clearly whatever the children had been ingesting had heightened their abilities to that of an oni's. But, reluctance had settled deep within Byakuren all the same as the child's brilliant smile slowly turned down in a frown as he mumbled, "So you're not gonna tell me where they are? Okay, okay..." The child had grabbed hold of the fresher body upon the ground, hoisting the limp body above his head, his eyes brightened with a devilish light as he exclaimed with glee, "I'll just have to force them out, then we can all play together!" Byakuren rose to his feet as the boy's arms tensed, straining as the body popped and twisted apart, the blood spilling free causing Byakuren to back up, his stomach twisting in knots at the twisted display before him as the boy grinned, blood now splattered upon his face and ragged clothes, "One!" He exclaimed as he threw one half of the body directly past Byakuren, the force that the boy threw it with causing a disgusting sound as the body hit the wall behind him with a solid smack.

There was a moment's pause as the boy had now hoisted the remaining half of the body above his head, "Not there... then... two!" He pivoted, a twisted laugh leaving him as he immediately threw the body in the direction where Ayumi and Mariko were hiding causing Byakuren to react. Immediately, the oni had rushed before the concealed table and a grunt left him as the body collided with his own, blood splattering against his clothing and landing upon the floorboards which made the boy's eyes narrow as his smile seemed to brighten slightly more, "There they are!" The boy charged then, moving with such speed that Byakuren almost couldn't comprehend at first, though the oni grabbed hold of the child before he could duck around him, his arm grabbing hold of the child's in an iron tight grip causing the boy to cry out at first, though soon pain went through Byakuren's arm as in retaliation the boy sunk his teeth deep into his skin, blood spilling up from the wound as the boy's eyes went wide, the red in his eyes brightening before Byakuren grabbed hold of the back of the boy's neck and pulled him away from his arm, tossing him away, a hiss of pain leaving Byakuren's lips as he clutched his bleeding arm tightly.

The boy was motionless for a few seconds before he had then got up from his position on the wooden floor, drool dripping down his blooded mouth as he grinned at Byakuren, "You have the juice!" The boy stood up, his body trembling from head to toe as a maddened light came to his eyes, "More! I want more!" With that, the child had rushed Byakuren again causing the oni to immediately turn and rush out of the broken wall, though the boy was quick to leap upon Byakuren's back, biting deep into the back of the oni's neck causing another hiss of pain to leave Byakuren as the boy's fingers was digging into his skin, his fingernails leaving bloodied welts wherever he scratched, though at the moment it was proving to be nothing more than a mild annoyance to the oni. Certainly nothing life threatening, however considering Ayumi as well as the strange villager was at risk, he needed to finish this out of sight and certainly further away from the house so that he wouldn't be putting anyone else at risk.

...​

Mariko's eyes closed tightly shut as she had cowered in her position behind the table, shaking from head to toe as she tried to block out the sounds of the boy's voice, terror making a whimper leave her lips. Why? Why now? Of course, she knew the reason why well enough. It was these strangers! If only they didn't come to the village, maybe, just maybe the children wouldn't return. However, she knew enough that was a false hope to cling to. The children would always haunt the village streets no matter how much she desired to run away, or even attempt to bury the dead still littering the village grounds, they always would interrupt or try to attack anyone within range. As these thoughts rushed through her head, she heard the distinct sound of something solid being thrown which caused her body to freeze as her heart stopped in her chest.

It was only then that Mariko slowly lowered her hands from her ears as she felt dread fill her from head to toe. This was right, of course... the children would always turn their little haunts into "games". At the distinct sound of "two", she braced herself for whatever was thrown to hit their hiding spot, but it never came. However, it was only then that she peered hesitantly from behind the veil of the blanket to what was happening, and much to her dismay, Byakuren was being attacked by the child. He's already dead. This thought registered as nothing more than fact within her mind. There was no saving the foolish oni at this point, what was he trying to prove? However, as the scene progressed before her eyes, disbelief filtered in her gaze as the oni was attempting to lead the child away. Was he trying to sacrifice himself? That fool!

Of course, to Mariko who was unaware of what Byakuren truly was, she had grasped hold of a broken stool in the darkness, her body trembling from head to toe as she limped out of her hiding spot, a cry leaving her lips as she swung the broken stool at the child who had latched himself upon Byakuren's back, although it didn't seem to do much good as her blows although meeting their mark was doing little to force the boy off from Byakuren and instead caused the boy to turn his head, a snarl leaving the child's lips as he lashed out, an arm swiping at the broken stool and knocking the object from Mariko's hands as he jumped off from Byakuren's back, his teeth bared and bloodied as his hands came down upon Mariko's throat, tightening his grip before his teeth sunk in just moments later into the oni's neck, her eyes going wide as the pain filled her before she fell back upon the wood. "Aa-ahggh!" The gargled cry left her lips as she struggled to pry the boy's inhumanely strong grip off from her. Though, she could vaguely see Byakuren's approaching figure, granted she couldn't hear him much through her own unrestrained terror. Though it was mere seconds that the boy had latched onto her, it felt as if a mere eternity had passed, and with a shocked voice barely registering in her ears, she could feel the boy's weight leave her body though she could no longer begin to will herself to speak, her eyes staring at empty space as she could see vaguely a larger shape beginning to tear into a smaller figure, although the sight was one that was horrid to view, she could no longer see the worse of it, nor could she hear anything too well at the moment. And then it was silent.

The large shape approached her, though the most noticeable was the brilliant white hair. She could feel pressure upon her throat, though even that was becoming harder to feel. Was the figure trying to stop the bleeding? It's too late. Her head struggled to turn as she spotted where the boy who had attacked her earlier was laying. The small body was face down in the dirt, although she couldn't see any visible injuries.. but then again she couldn't see too well at the moment either. Struggling to listen to what was happening, she heard a male voice call out, "Ayumi, quick rip apart some of the blanket!" Her eyelids were growing more heavy as she struggled to speak, however nothing more than blood had managed to come up from her lips as the oni's eyes closed.

 

[Keylyn May]

{{ oh good! I've been alright. I am getting my footing in teaching and making it through as best I can }}

Ayumi ducked behind the table with Mariko as she heard the door of the hut splinter soon after Mariko had shifted the blanket to cover them. Ayumi lifted her arms over her head in reaction, biting her lips slightly as she attempted to keep any noise down. She listened from behind the blanket at the conversation unfolding, the voice of this child sending chills down her spine. How could any child be turned to this? At the sound of something being torn in two, she clamped her hands firmly over her lips. It didn't take much thought to determine what it was that had made that horrid sound, and her stomach turned once again. She was certain she would be sick. She heard a crash and whimper come from Mariko, her mind trying to figure out a way to get out of here while also telling her stomach to settle.

She heard the child hurl something once more and she assumed it was in their direction. She waited to hear the crash of something hitting the table, but no such thing occurred. Instead, the sounds of fighting began to fill the hut and Ayumi immediately shifted to try to see. Ayumi peeked out carefully, her body shaking as she watched in horror as the child attacked Byakuren. She knew Byakuren was holding back, as she knew that Byakuren would have no problem fighting this child. The child, however, seemed to be fighting with all that he had. She heard his words on Byakuren having the juice, but couldn't think on it long as she noticed movement beside her. Mariko was leaving their hiding spot.

Ayumi reached out a hand in the female's direction but she had already lunged at the child now clinging to Byakuren's back. Ayumi watched as she swung over and over and yet her efforts were in vain. Her hits, though they landed, seemed unable to faze the child. Instead, they brought his horrid attention to her, and Ayumi let out a small, strangled yelp as she watched the child attack Mariko. Once Byakuren had removed the child, Ayumi rushed towards Mariko. She heard Byakuren's command on tearing the blanket, watching as he placed his hands on Mariko's neck in an attempt to stem the rush of blood. Ayumi tore at the blanket and brought it over quickly, falling to her knees beside Mariko. Ayumi's gaze locked on the blood, and her mind went to the camp they had just left. Her mind replayed the attack they had just come from, the terror, and the death. "Byakuren..." Her voice came out like a small child as her fists held the blanket out, white from effort. She's going to die...

 

[LONELYRAIN]

(That's good! Best of luck to you! c: )

As Ayumi approached, Byakuren had grasped hold of the blanket as he ripped apart some of it to begin pressing to the open wound on Mariko's neck, however it seemed to no avail. The blood continued without stop to swell from beneath his fingers, staining his pale skin red. It was too much for him to even begin to stop the blood flow, he knew that. She was already as good as dead, and this effort he was taking to try to preserve her life was meaningless. And of course, her breath would soon stop, the woman's life already fading before Byakuren's eyes and all he could do was merely struggle to try and save her. But, once again this was a death he could not prevent, despite the strength he had in his limbs, he could do nothing regarding saving this woman's life and it made him sick to his stomach.

Mariko's last shuddering breath made Byakuren's heart drop in his chest, his hands slowly moving away from Mariko's neck and merely staying at his sides as he stared blankly down at her dead body. "Ayumi." He spoke her name quietly, lifting his gaze to look at Ayumi's face. She didn't need to be here, certainly not now. If anything, both of them needed to immediately leave, as what the child had said disturbed him and as it was, he was bleeding himself from the two deep bites he had received from the boy that attacked him. As much as he felt resentment at his uselessness in this moment, they didn't have the luxury of lingering in one spot, nor did he have time to fully process Mariko's death at this moment in time. His jaw clenched, closing his eyes for a single moment as he took in a deep breath and exhaled, "We have to leave." Even if he wasn't too shaken up by the current situation, it didn't mean that Ayumi wasn't. He could feel that she wasn't alright, and exposing her to more terror without allowing her to get proper rest was not ideal.

The oni stood up, grabbing hold of Ayumi's hand tightly and beginning to walk at a swift pace, picking his way around the deceased villagers that littered the village's grounds. It was silent almost eerily so, with the moon still bright overhead it would seem as if they had a few more hours until dawn would come. This wasn't ideal, but it wasn't as if they had much choice, their one hiding spot was now exposed and the other villager's now abandoned homes had been broken and destroyed past reasonable repair, leaving little room to be able to hide until dawn would come. The walk through the village seemed even more so longer considering Byakuren froze every few moments to check their surroundings before continuing to walk with care through the silence, though eventually the silence seemed to be broken by movement and an odd cry ringing out through the silence.

Tensing up, Byakuren immediately drew Ayumi close to him and ducked behind what would have been the remains of an old well, his muscles tensing as whatever had cried out soon came into view and with relief in his chest it seemed to be the odd creature that the oasis had given them, and it luckily enough didn't seem to be harmed. The creature trotted over in Byakuren's and Ayumi's direction, a snort leaving it's nostrils as it cried out again which prompted more movement to come in their direction, though it seemed to be people on reptilian mounts themselves, although with an odd insignia plastered upon the creature's bridles... something oddly familiar that Byakuren could not remember. In the forefront of the group there was a familiar face, one that hadn't been seen in quite some time: Rose's second-in-command Jun who was grumbling, "I have no idea why anyone would be all the way out here-- huh?" The man's confusion was obvious as soon as he had coaxed his mount to move forward after the other, though he soon spluttered in surprise, "A-Ayumi? What are you... ah.. and you! Byakuren, right?" He pointed at each of them in turn, though this didn't put Byakuren at ease, instead the oni could only feel nothing more than irritation looking upon the man's face as he drew Ayumi closer to him in an automatic reaction, a snarl leaving his lips. Obviously, Byakuren certainly didn't recall much if anything at all, but it seemed as if luck was on their side for once.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi watched Byakuren's attempt to stop the bleeding, but the crimson flow just kept coming. Ayumi knew that there was nothing more that could be done, this being solidified when Mariko took her last breath. Ayumi's amber gaze was still locked on the blood. Why did it seem that so much of it had been spilled in a matter of days? It seemed that everywhere they went, blood was sure to flow. Ayumi distantly hear Byakuren saying her name, and yet her body did not move. It was like she was stuck in her place, rooted by the terror and the blood. So much had been thrown at her in mere days and she hadn't processed any of it correctly.

She moved only when Byakuren had taken a hold of her hand and practically drug her out of the hut. Ayumi still did not make a sound. The cool air of the night seemed to awaken her enough for her to quietly move along, though she didn't dare to hardly even breathe. Where was Saburo? Where were the children? Were there others like Mariko still hiding here? Where were they even going to hide? Were they actually going to escape this nightmare tonight? So many unknowns made Ayumi's head spin, which didn't help with the nausea she was already fighting, yet she kept going. The worst thing to do, she knew, was to stop here and now. To crumble and give up would mean her immediate death.

Ayumi felt Byakuren pull her close and it was enough to bring her mind to the present, hearing the distant noise as he clung to her and kept her close. Ayumi froze as she listened, unable to place the noise immediately. What now?! Looking in the direction that Byakuren seemed to be, Ayumi noticed the oasis creature approaching them. His snorts sent fear through her as she knew that noise would draw attention. As it began to come closer, her fist clutched Byakuren's clothing all the tighter. No, don't come closer! Turn away! However, when they were close enough to be seen, shock filled her features as she recognized Juno upon the back of the oasis creature. She felt Byakuren's reaction to the male as he stated their names in turn.

"J-Juno?" She stammered, looking between him and Byakuren. Byakuren seemed unable to recall Juno, though she was not all that surprised due to the state of his memory. "W-what are you doing here?" Fear gripped her again at the fact that so many threats could be lurking nearby. "You can't be here! You need to leave! Leave quickly before they come back!" Her amber gaze was wide with fear. She couldn't watch someone else, especially someone from their group, be brought to death again. Not now. Not here.

 

[LONELYRAIN]

Jun's expression didn't lose his confusion, however Ayumi's warning certainly seemed to cause the man to give the perimeter of the area another look over. Judging from the destruction alone, Ayumi certainly didn't need to tell him twice to be careful. However, he shook his head at her, now lowering his voice, "They? What are you talking about?" The man only received disturbing reports of unusual things occurring outside of what had be designated as the "safe zone". Granted, the perimeter of their safe zone had only shrunk more and more with each passing year as Osamu's forces only pushed what little of the rebel's army back. If anything, it would only be a matter of time before they were forced to retreat, that is... if Rose hadn't shown up when she did. The only reason why Jun had been sent out to begin with was to perform another daily patrol for those who were fleeing, or to slaughter any of Osamu's creatures. What he hadn't expected was a rider-less creature to trot up to him and drag him all the way to this ruined village.

The man was quick to turn in his saddle, looking to the two other people who had joined him in his patrol, "Go back." He clearly wasn't going to take any chances here, if Ayumi was showing to be this fearful, whatever had happened here was clearly not something they were readily prepared for, and he wasn't going to linger here longer than he needed to be. Even though the moon was providing a steady stream of light, it was certainly not enough to illuminate every single shadow, nor did it seem necessary to do so either for there was a distinct sound as the two other soldiers had begun to ride away of sniffling, though that caused Jun to turn his head to face the direction Byakuren and Ayumi had come from previously, and the boy from earlier who had been knocked into the dirt was approaching. His eyes were swimming with tears, though it seemed more out of frustration as he mumbled, "Don't leave. You can't. I won't let you."

The hair on the back of Jun's neck stood on end, though before he could react, Byakuren seemed to move, immediately putting Ayumi on the creature that they had been provided from the oasis and getting on behind her as he snapped at Jun, "We have to move, now!" As soon as those words left his lips, the child began to scream, the sound piercing and ringing in his ears causing the oni to want to cover his ears from the sheer volume of the cry. The sound was horrid, but much to his dismay he could smell the scent of rot beginning to waft upon the air, and the distant sound of clacking bones. It wasn't too soon after that Jun had begun to move, Byakuren steering his own creature after him as they tore a path through the ruined village, following in the wake of the other soldiers that had left before him. The sound of movement was all around them, though whether it was a trick of the mind was uncertain. However, as soon as they had managed to rush out of the village, Byakuren looked back over his shoulder, seeing Saburo who was looming atop one of the ruined roofs. The light in the general's eyes seemed almost.. amused.

He saw the oni raise a hand, an ominous glow emanating from the armored hand as he pointed it at Byakuren before it disappeared. Whatever had occurred, Byakuren was uncertain, but nonetheless he didn't trust whatever Saburo had done... if he'd done anything of importance at all. However, just as he had dismissed the oddity of that single moment, pain immediately assaulted the oni as he suddenly doubled over in the saddle, a low grunt of pain leaving his lips. At this, Jun had looked over his shoulder, concern showing in his eyes, "Hey, are you alright?" The oni forced himself upright, not desiring to lean too much on Ayumi, but whatever Saburo had done to him it didn't seem obvious for now. Byakuren nodded his head, "Yes... just keep going, we can't - we.. can't stay here for too long." Those words seemed to be far more difficult for him to manage out, however his focus was more so on making sure Ayumi was completely out of danger before he could even think of figuring out what had just happened to him.

 

[Keylyn May]

Ayumi couldn't manage to get any more words out of her lips, though Jun didn't seem to be taking her warning as seriously as she had hoped he would. Ayumi did, however, watch as he sent the others away. That is before the child from before had appeared once again. Ayumi's blood ran cold as her amber gaze looked at the boy. Her usual tenderness towards children was replaced with fear towards this one. She felt Byakuren move to immediately place her on the back of the oasis creature, barking that they needed to leave. A piercing scream reached her ears from the boy. Ayumi ducked her head down against Jun's back, her hand coming up to try to block out the scream though it was to little avail. Ayumi felt the creature take off.

She kept her hands over her ears and her head remained down on Jun's back. She couldn't bring herself to look up anymore. She imagined Saburo and all the children from before coming out of the shadows, inching forward to surround them. She felt Byakuren lean onto her for a moment, heard a faint hiss from his lips, and wondered if something had been thrown. Please! Get away! Run faster! She silently willed the creature beneath them to move on, wanting only to get far from the wretched town as soon as possible. All the while, her eyes remained screwed shut as if trying to block everything out.