[b [#104BC2 "Come on sis, where the hell are you?"]]

Lost Angel had been tracking this guy for a while now. Helping her twin out, yet she was no where to be seen. Just great. Finding out she had family wasn't all it was cracked up to be it seemed. Her sister was a stubborn one, and that was putting it lightly. While she could work with people, it was obvious why her boss had her work alone most of the time.

[b [#104BC2 "If she doesn't show up soon I'll just take care of it and collect the money for myself."]] She muttered, pulling her hood over her head and walking out of the alleyway.

She stayed a good distance behind the man, who didn't look out of the ordinary at all. But she knew that wasn't true. It was always the ones that looked too ordinary. This guy wasn't on the good side of Hoshiko's boss, and he wanted him brought alive. Lost had no idea why Hoshiko wanted her help, but it seemed it would be because she was too lazy to do the job herself. Didn't matter to her though, more money in the end.

Tacking him took no time, and with no help. Now it was just a waiting game to get him either alone or with little witnesses that they wouldn't bother to report it. Didn't take long, the idiot walking into a part of town that people only went to if they really needed to. Smiling, she rushed a bit past him and turned around.

[b [#104BC2 "Yo! Your boss is angry with you."]] Lost then punched him in the face, knocking him out instantly. An easy job it seemed.

After turning him over to the boss, she had some more money. A job well done she figured. Her phone rang then, looking at it, she sighed and answered.

[b [#104BC2 "You're not getting the money. I got it myself."]]

[b "Lost, find Sai."]

[b [#104BC2 "You know he only shows himself when he wants to be found."]] Lost Angel replied, leaning against the wall of the building, spotting a cute guy in the distance.

[b "Find him Lost, I mean it. I saw the woman again, I know I did."]

Now Hoshiko had her attention. [b [#104BC2 "Wait, the one that you said was chasing you and kicked your ass?"]]

[b "Yes...just find Sai and let him know."]

[b [#104BC2 "Why can't you?"]]

The phone cut off then. Lost looked at it, a bit confused. Lost hadn't seen the woman before, but Hoshiko had told her about it. But why now all of the sudden? And why had the phone cut off?

[b [#104BC2 "This better not be a joke..."]]

Finding a single man in a city with population over a million wasn't easy. It took a lot of skill for that to be pulled off. Knowing the target's habits, stakeouts, research, utilizing contacts... All that and more was needed to find someone who wanted to hide.

Sai'Len had everything needed in spades, and then some. You didn't operate as a bounty hunter in a city like this without making a few friends... And a lot of enemies.

Right now he was observing his next target. The man, dressed in a pristine white suit as he lounged in a club at the top floor of one of the higher buildings in the area, had his head wanted by some company that dealt with biological weapons. Apparently he was a major competitor in that area, and Sai'Len's current employers wanted him taken alive so that they could "persuade" the man to work for them.

Too bad for them that it wasn't going to happen... But Sai'Len would send them a copy of the man's research, while forwarding it to every other competitor he could find. As for the man himself...

Sai'Len shooed the crow that had dared to land on his sniper rifle. The train would pass through the raised overpass under him any moment now, and he needed to time the shot perfectly in order to mask the sound...

Lost Angel stood on the roof of a building, looking over the city in attempts to find something. She knew it would be impossible, but it was worth a shot. The building held apartments, one of them belonging to Hoshiko and her roommate. Lost had been staying there whenever she was called back into the city for a job or such. She had to admit, Hoshiko's roommate was very cool with all the Projects and such that came through. Then again, she had stated she and Hoshiko had been roommates for a while.

She had returned to the apartments shortly after the strange call with Hoshiko. Walking in, she found that Hoshiko hadn't been home since the night before. Lost had seen her walk out to go do a job, and then she got a text asking for help on another one.

[b [#104BC2 "It's normal for her to be out for an extended amount of time, but that call...It doesn't make sense..."]]

Pulling out her phone again, she went through her contacts. She made sure her siblings numbers weren't under their actual names. Sure she made sure her phone was on her at all times, but she always had to think ahead. Finding the nickname she gave Sai, she quickly selected it to call.

[b [#104BC2 "You better pick up this time..."]]

He could hear the train coming, the sound becoming clearer and louder with each passing moment. Any second now it would come, drowning the gunshot... If Sai'Len could make it despite the crows that were enjoying messing with his still form...

The bounty hunter started counting down in his head. Ten, nine, eight... He started to squeeze on the trigger, spooling it. Seven, six, five... The train moved under him, rattling loudly. Four, three, two...

And that was when his phone vibrated in his pocket. The unexpected occurence threw off his aim just as he pulled the trigger. The shot went wide, missing its intended target and hitting the club's bartender. Glass, drinks and blood flew in the room, the screams probably loud enough to be heard even at his position if they weren't drowned by the train.

With a loud curse in Chinese Sai'Len scrambled on his feet, his hand patting at his pocket before he found the phone and answered it. "What?!" He shouted in the receiver, trying to be heard over the passing train even as he ran across the overpass' rooftop.

[b [#104BC2 "Hello to you too brother"]] She replied in a smart ass tone. Lost could hear the train very clearly, and figured part of it was just so he could be heard. The rest of his tone though, she could easily tell he was pissed. She must've ruined a mission for him. He would get the guy later.

[b [#104BC2 "Listen, I hadn't seen Hoshiko since last night. Normally, that wouldn't be a cause of concern, since she disappears sometimes while doing jobs. But this time is different."]] She waved a few doves away from where she stood. Crazy city birds always getting close to people to get food when normal birds wouldn't dare. [b [#104BC2 "She just called me and said to find you. After I made a protest, seeing as though neither of us can find you when we want, she said I had to. Sai, she said she saw that woman you two met. The one that really pissed Hoshiko off and almost killed her. You know her as well as I do that if she really did spot that woman, she's going to go after her."]]

Lost really didn't like this. Even though she was still learning about the two, she had gathered quickly that once Hoshiko had a grudge, she wasn't letting it go. Hell, she still had one against their father and Lost didn't know why. All she knew was that it was from a few years ago.

[b [#104BC2 "I guess she figures you can help track her better, but why she didn't just contact you is beyond me."]]

Pissed... Pissed didn't even begin to describe Sai'Len's state of mind. The man was dangerous to the entire world. He could unleash plagues unlike anything imagined, things that would rival the Black Death in lethality, only scaled up for modern times.

"This better be good." Sai'Len snarled, partially from irritation, partially in plain as he unfolded his wings from his back and took off, using them to glide to another building. It would probably be something important, he doubted that his sisters would call him for a social call, or invite him for dinner...

The family just wasn't like that.

Sai'Len almost dropped out of the sky when he heard what had Hoshiko found. The woman! The Tengu! Sai'Len had been searching for her high and low, trying to find any trace of her. He got nothing though... Face recognition software failed to find her on any camera in the city or private grids he had hacked into (with some help), his informants never saw her, and every attempt to get her attention failed...

"What? Where is she? Wait, where are you?" He asked, pausing on the rooftop for breath Even just gliding, a sniper rifle wasn't something easy to carry one-handed...

[b [#104BC2 "I don't know where she is. She just said to call you and when I asked why she couldn't call you, she hung up on me."]] Lost blinked as she realized something, and quickly ran back inside and down the stairs. [b [#104BC2 "Wait, I just realized. She called me because she doesn't remember your number, only mine. And she wouldn't have to remember my number unless she didn't have her phone!"]]

The stairs would take too long, so she jumped over the railing and let her wings sprout out. Hissing in pain, the white feathers spread out to let her float down at a safer speed. She still wasn't used to her wings, and she rarely used them. Finding the right floor, she grabbed the guard rail and landed on the stairs again, rushing into the hall and into the apartment, her wings folding up again.

Lost opened the door to Hoshiko's room and quickly looked around for her sister's phone. [b [#104BC2 "Her phone isn't in her apartment. She had it with her then, but she somehow lost it."]]

Now there were more questions for her that she needed answers to. Where was Hoshiko? Why didn't she have her phone? And what was she trying to do now that she saw the woman again.

[b [#104BC2 "Please tell me you have a way to track her without her phone?"]]

Doesn't remember his... Of course she doesn't, Sai'Len thought bitterly as he fished a case from behind a chimney and started to disassemble the rifle, keeping the phone lodged between his cheek and his shoulder.

"Of course... She either forgot it, or..." Or she was forced to leave it behind. No, there was no sense in that. After all, she had seen that woman, and was allowed to call Lost, and through her him... He was just being paranoid.

Though in his line of work, paranoia was just healthy thinking.

"Not unless she hasn't changed or washed her clothes since the last time we met." Was his answer to the last question. He always set up trackers in important people's clothes, but the stickers were short-lived and, while easy to miss, disappeared completely when soaked.

"But I have a suggestion." He continued as he closed the briefcase. "Call your boss, have him ask his men if they had seen her. Someone's bound to have glimpsed her."

[b [#104BC2 "Well, I would hope she had washed her clothes since then."]] Lost replied sarcastically. She always seemed to have that tone, even in this sort of situation. Hearing Sai'Len's suggestion, she had to admit, she should've thought of that before. But she wouldn't beat herself up that much about it. [b [#104BC2 "Got it, I'll call back when I get answers. I'll still be in the town until I hear from her again and I get a location."]]

Hanging up, she then called Hoshiko's boss. Of course, he wasn't the one that picked up, but once she got through who she was, the phone was handed off. The man had a deep voice that sounded friendly but had a hint of coldness too it. That was his nice tone, it meant you were in his graces. His other tones, not so much.

[b [#104BC2 "Hoshiko's gone, and I need to know if any of the other men have seen her."]] She quickly said, not bothering to waist time. Of course, he thought nothing was wrong, knowing full well that she would disappear every now and then. Lost quickly explained the situation to him. Not everything, but enough for him to know she was in trouble and Lost really needed to know some answers. He understood, thankfully, and said he would call back as soon as he had something.

It was a great thing the boss cared about his employees enough to be concerned. Then again, perhaps it was just Hoshiko because of how valuable she was to him. After all, she couldn't die, and she was practically a master with her sword. She was the perfect hitwoman. It would be horrible for him to lose her. Hoshiko probably knew this and played at it a lot.

Lost stayed in the apartment, waiting for a call. She didn't panic, keeping herself calm. She knew panic would only make things worse, and wouldn't help at all. The girl knew Hoshiko had been in some pretty bad situations before, hearing about a few, so she knew her twin would figure something out.

Her phone rang again and she quickly answered, hearing the boss on the other end. [b [#104BC2 "You sure that's what they saw? Okay, thank you. Yes, we'll find her."]] She hung up and called Sai'Len again with her answer. [b [#104BC2 "Sai, he said some of the boys spotted her on the south edge of town. She handed off the target she caught to them and then flew off out of town. They said she was a bit on edge. That must have been when she spotted the woman."]]

"Don't get sassy with me." Was Sai'Len's response to Lost's sarcasm. Seriously, what was with this family? Everyone was cheeky, sassy and sarcastic at all times! Him included!

As Lost hung up so did he. With the conversation over, for now, he could change suits. Thankfully, that was easily done. The air in front of him shimmered and as he walked through the curtain he emerged on the other side, dressed in his suit. Coupled with the briefcase, he looked like a young office worker... That was walking on the top of an eight-story building. Correction, walking off the edge. His wings snapped out, startling a crow that flew too close for its safety, allowing Sai'Len to glide in the side alley and emerge in the ever-present crowd of people.

He navigated the stream of bodies, making his way towards his apartment. He could have used the Red Night, but he needed to be available for the next call from Lost... Or from Hoshiko, if he was lucky. Though he didn't put much faith on the last one. He wasn't worried about her, there was nothing he knew of that could kill his dark-winged sister. And if she was contained, well, he and Lost were going to find and break her out sooner or later.

Lost's next call came when he was already at his apartment, enough time having passed for him to even open a can of coke and down most of it.

"South edge? But there's nothing of note there." He frowned as he heard where was Hoshiko last seen. "Okay, we have a location. Meet me... Hmm..." He tried to remember any landmarks at that side of the city. "Ah. There's a fast food joint where many truckers stop." And other people as well... People from his job. "You'll find it easily." With that he hung up. It was time for him to use the Red Night for transportation...

Joy.

[b [#104BC2 "Exactly, which makes me wonder why the woman would be there. Unless she wanted a place with hardly anything noteworthy."]] Her gears were turning as she tried to think of why Hoshiko would go that way. Sadly, she couldn't think of a reason. But it wasn't surprising since they knew nothing about this woman. Just that Hoshiko thought she was a bitch.

[b [#104BC2 "Alright, meet you there then."]]

With their meeting spot picked, she made her way back out into the street. Her hood was over her head again, hiding her face from anyone just passing through. It was a habit of hers, something she was told to do at the Labs. She was never experimented on, instead she brought them their new test subjects and took out any that had attempted to escape. She regretted it now, but what was done was done.

Walking there would take too long, especially since she figured her brother would be taking the Red Night. He would be waiting around for her and precious time would escape from them. Sighing, she knew what she had to do and quickly turned into an alleyway.

[b [#104BC2 "I hate flying."]] She muttered, her wings sprouting again. It still hurt her to let them out, but at least it was starting to hurt less. She guessed Hoshiko had done it so many times that it no longer bothered her, or it was part of her never dying thing. Once she was in the air, Lost Angel was fine, it was just letting her wings out or putting them back.

Once in the air, she quickly flew towards the south side of town. On her way, she noticed quite a few birds almost keeping up with her. Normally, she would've thought nothing of it, but something was odd. All of the birds that were flying with her were white. She would have to think more about this later, she spotted the fast-food place and needed to land.

She gave a sort of shiver and hiss as her wings retracted. recovering from that, she walked out of her hiding spot and into the place, taking a seat near the back. Seemed she got here before he did, but she doubted by much.

The year was 1864, the Tokugawa Shogunate drawing to a fierce close. War ravaged the land as the Imperialists battle the Shogunates forces, staining the land with blood. In the center of this "Hell on Earth" as the population of Japan referred to it was the city of Kyoto, Capital of Japan. Two forces met at heads the Ishin ShiShi and the Shinsengumi two groups of Japans fiercest warriors, neither side seeming to give an inch to the other, resorting to petty tactic such as starting fires under the cover of night and, using assassins to target high ranking politicians

One such assassin, hidden from light, Hitokiri Battousai.. A man-slayer feared by all who would encounter his blade, walking the line between life and death. Trained in the Hiten Mitsurugi style, he was known as the man with god-like speed, unmatched in battle, unable to be slain, even referred to as the Devil with Crimson Hair.

[center - [b [size12 KYOTO]] -]

Smoke billowed from the outskirts of town, another farm house engulfed in flames, the smell of burning flesh stained the air surrounding, a fate known to many Imperial supporters, with tensions drawing to the climax the death count grew, but this was normal, Kyoto being as large as it was, acts such as these would only be but stories in a paper or words passed by way of mouth of some drunken samurai. The city itself would move on as normal, people would move day to day, women would cook, men would gamble. Families would go home and eat, the populace had become desensitized to the bloodshed around them, fear remained, but what could they do?

Seiji, a member of the Imperialist Ishin ShiShi, sat silently outside yet another war council, the politics meant nothing to him, just his next order, the next life he must take to bring Japan one step closer to peace, a peace outside of the grasp of Tokugawa. The breeze was gentle to him this day, the sun glowing as it turned itself in for the long night, it was as if nature did not know of war, of the fires that burned her, it was almost serene. A small glimpse of the world he had hoped to be building. Hitokiri Battousai..a blade to carve the old world to ribbons, bone and all.

She was beautiful, many swooned over her whenever she walked by. Many stated that if she wanted, she could even have the emperor himself and be his main wife. However, if told this, she would quickly say that wasn't true, and that she was beaten out by many women in beauty. Many couldn't even believe what she did. She was a dancer, but also a maid within the Imperialist Ishin ShiShi, serving the men their meals and retrieving messages for them. Little things, but she was still seen as important.

No one really knew who she was or where she came from. She didn't even know. From what she was told, she had hit her head as a child when her family was trying to run from their village and she was left behind. She was then found by the general Takatsukasa, and taken in as their adopted daughter. Hence why she had his last name. He and his wife named her, saying she would learn to be a maid within the group.

Sayako was her name, though many called her Tsuka, a pet name made to make fun of the general in a friendly way. She didn't mind at all and responded to both. She was just happy where she was, a simple life, but with excitement mixed in.

Announcing her arrival to the room, she slid the door open and bowed. Kneeling down to close the door, she then took her trey and went around the room, serving the men their drinks. Making her way around, she soon finished and noticed a man sitting outside, watching the night sky. She smiled, knowing who this was, and walked over to him, kneeling down beside him.

[b "Would you like a drink Seiji?"]

From the commotion in the room Seiji could tell that the decisions on the night so called activities were almost complete, it would be several minutes still before he would receive his brief on the target. Until that time the Samurai would remain as a statue, resting on his knees, blade laid out horizontally before him, eyes locked into the distant twilight sky. It wasn't long before a voice, gentle in tone announced her entrance, giving the men time to cover the sensitive material from her eyes.

Like a stone to feathers the mood changed drastically. "Tsuka-Chan" the men belted, an endearing face that eased the hearts of the warriors of Ishin ShiShi like no other. Takatsukasa Sayako, a girl from nowhere, with nothing, not much different then Seiji himself in that respect. Raised herself by the current General she was raised with manners and proper grammar, adding even more to her allure to the regular grunts that took the battlefield.

Seiji felt her presence as she crossed the room to kneel beside him, much like before she had a cheerful look to her face, catching only a glimpse as his cold eyes reverted their attention back to the night sky.

[b " I have no tolerance."] speaking in reference to the Sake in the urn that was place upon the maidens tray. Not one for drinking, or partaking in any other such luxury he believed he did not deserve or need. The Samurai closed his eyes and let the wind blow across his face, ruffling his bangs slightly. [b "But thank you for your kindness Takatsukasa-Sama"]

The men were a bit rowdy tonight, which meant something good was happening. She never bothered asking, knowing she wouldn't understand anyways. She wasn't one for politics or military talk, so she stayed out of it. The men knew this and freely talked about it sometimes with her around. They would sometimes joke that she better not say anything to anyone, and of course, she would always promise she wouldn't.

Sayako did recall that Seiji didn't drink, which made it a bit strange for her to ask if he wanted some of the sake. Still, she was more being polite than anything. But since he did not want it, she wouldn't push it. Instead, she smiled softly and gave a soft chuckle.

[b "I still have no idea why you use -sama for my name when I am obviously of lower rank than you, Seiji-sama."] She said softly, looking up a the sky as well for a bit. [b "It's rather beautiful tonight. A shame the men don't wish to see this as well. Instead they'd rather drink at the moment. But at least that leaves some peace."]

Calmly the Samurai, adjusted himself to a crossed legged position, picking up his blade and resting the hilt on his shoulder. [b "I am a Man-Slayer, nothing more, even one such as you who distances herself from the darkness can not hide from the stories, the sin I commit place me at the bottom.] His expression remaining cold and still. [b "As for the drinking, they say Sake helps them feel at ease before the go out to what could be there last night on this earth."] Seiji did not intend to give off such a grim vibe, but he also saw no point in sugar coating life, not when he himself has faced of against the abyss.

[b "My apologies Takatsukasa-sama, there is no reason to pollute your mind with such darkness."] Seiji opened his eyes once more, this time to look upon the face of the woman beside him as she stared at the sky.

The summer air was cool and the sweet smell of the Sara trees filled the air around them, the garden illuminated solely by the moon and the fireflies that made it their home. It was as she said, beautiful, if only every night Seiji experienced were like this forever, but like most things it would soon end. That was when a man approached from inside the room, a handler if you will for the Battousai. Leaning over the Samurai the man whispered a name quietly into his ear before slipping him a small note and quickly shuffling away.

She listened to what Seiji had to say. It seemed he still thought his work put him on the lowest of the low. Yes, some people thought that, but no one would say it out loud. Sayako didn't see it that way though. She followed status structure that was in place and didn't go against it. And because of that, she wasn't going to argue with this man about the structure, it would be out of place for her.

[b "No, do not worry about it Seiji-sama."] Sayako replied. [b "You know I'm perfectly capable of handling conversation over any matter."]

Sayako noticed a man approach them. She quickly turned towards him and bowed down, showing the respect she was to give to him. He paid no mind to her, not needing to, and went on with his business of telling Seiji his next target. She watched silently as he whispered and handed the Samurai the paper before walking back in. Raising herself again, she looked towards Seiji.

[b "Guess you will go off on your next target then."] She gave her soft smile to him, wishing him luck in hopes of returning. [b "I should probably return to the men as well, I'm sure they're ready for another round of drinks."]

Nodding in concurrence Seiji raised himself from the ground and brushed off any dirt that had collected. [b "Thank you for your time Takatsukasa-sama."] Turning away from the woman Seiji began his descent into the shadows, tonight the Battousai would strike. The target was no simple task, a member of the former daimyo Ii Naosuke's inner circle, one of the last few members that held the secret of Naosuke's assassination from the Shogun. After the incidents regarding the Ansei Purge the Oniwaban increased their presence in Kyoto making it more difficult to carry out mission such as this in the city.

Seiji wasted no time moving across the rooftops, keeping his presence concealed in shadow. His target, according to the note would be hiding in the abandoned Tenshu of Nijō Castle. No small task to get over the mote and past the guards. though with the Hiten Mitsurugi style no man would stand a chance against the Hitokiri Battousai. Light as air his feet hit the ground, as the two men guarding the front gate dropped dead, their blood misting into the air around him. This was god-like speed, a blade drawn so fast it was as if men would fall just from his gaze. Without hesitation the red-haired samurai pushed forward, his only route a long bridge across the first mote. If luck remained on his side the guard would not be alert to his presence until the deed was done.

[b "May you have luck."] Sayako muttered as he left, watching him sink into the shadows.

She stood and walked back into the room with the drinks, greeted happily by the men. The girl smiled and started making her rounds again. While she poured the drinks, one of the men called out to her.

[i "Tsuka-chan! Dance for us, please!"]

[b "Oh I couldn't, there aren't any musicians here."]

Sayako wasn't in the mood for a dance, so having no one to play the instruments were a good thing for once. She had much on her mind at the moment, and she didn't wish to give them a sad dance. But they persisted, sending out another servant to go and find musicians willing to play. It didn't take them long, pulling in two that were ready to play. Because of that, Sayako agreed and was given two fans before she walked over to take her position.

The song was light, starting slow as she turned, holding her fans out. All the men turned silent and watched her in awe as she started to turn the fans, her arms flowing like water. As she danced, the music sped up, her arms matching the rhythm perfectly. While she danced, she only thought of the mission Seiji was just sent on. She didn't know who the target was, but she knew it was of high rank. He was a famous Samurai, so he was always on the most dangerous missions. She had to admit, she worried about most of the Samurai, but she hadn't seen most of them lately, so they were out of her mind at the moment.

As the dance ended, she bowed down, the men applauding and complimenting how great it was. She smiled and thanked them, excusing herself saying she needed to get more drinks. They protested but let her go, wanting drinks more. Once out of the room, she was able to breathe. She didn't mind entertaining them, but they were a handful when getting drunk. That was usually when she handed them off to one of the other maids.

Making her way out into the garden, she looked up at the sky again, seeing the stars. The smile she had before came back to her face as she watched the night sky. She could name all the constellations, her adoptive father having taught her them. Sighing, she lost the smile for a bit.

[b "It's times like these that I wish I could still speak with you father..."]

Blood spattered across the paper screen door as Seiji's blade pierced his targets heart, he felt no joy, no excitement, no dishonor, for he felt that his cause was just, to use the Hiten Mitsurugi style to remove the pain from the hearts of the people, to bring an end to the Shogunate. With a quick flick of the wrist the Assassin flung the remaining blood from his blade and returned it to its scabbard, his intention were now to escape through the shadows and return home in the night, it wouldn't be long before these murders were discovered and to save face he made sure to take their coin purses and a few artifacts from the building and throw them into the mote, if it looked like a robbery gone awry it would be harder for Tokugawa to wage an open attack on the members of the Ishen ShiShi without a just cause.

Seiji had no problems carrying out an order, regardless of the task, he did not live for family or honor, he lived not to kill but to save, using his body as a catalyst to repair Japan and it's people. His eyes cold, soulless, eyes of a man who had tasted deaths kiss on several occasions and was still able to walk away. As a child he experienced his first taste of death when his parents died of Cholera, his second was when his slavers were murdered by bandits and in the process the three girls who designated themselves his care taker were murdered holding him in their arms. No, death was no stranger here, it was a pain that tainted a pure heart, and now it was a tool for revolution.

Hours had passed before Seiji made it back, it was roughly somewhere between midnight and two in the morning, he wasn't sure, on the track back he made sure to double back several time and even cut through some crowded areas just to lose any tails he might have acquired, Kyoto was notorious for spies and ninja and that was the last thing he desired, for blood to be shed in the place he called home, for innocents to be involved in battle because he was careless, no matter how cold he appeared the Red-haired warrior cared deeply for the people otherwise he had no reason to pick up a blade.

Seiji lept down from the wall quietly landing in the garden he had been in prior, he took special care to come in under the cover of night and to not use the main entrance due to the fact that he was usually covered in blood and it wasn't something the servants and regular workers needed to see.

Sayako had returned to the men after a while, only to deliver more drinks. She believed they had enough, but it wasn't her place to say so, despite the other maids believing it as well. Seiji was right, they were drinking because they were about to head into battle. But it was a good thing they weren't going out tomorrow because their hangovers would take some time, even with the remedies they had.

[b "I don't get the appeal of sake, but it's what they want to forget, so why take that from them."] She chuckled, now back outside again.

It was a warm night, the fireflies flying around, shining brightly. She remembered as a child going out at night to catch them. She would then use them as a sort of night light and then let them free in the morning. Growing up, she was one of the only children in the whole place. But Sayako was loved by her adoptive father and mother. Her mother died about two years after she was adopted, so for the most part it was just her and her father. She was fine with that, he would bring her into the meetings they had and let her play next to him, sometimes falling asleep there. She always woke up in her own room though, but she had no reason to be mad about it.

The night was turning late, and Sayako was getting tired. She sat on the porch, leaning against a beam, as she continued to watch the garden. It was nice here, one of the few places in Kyoto that seemed to be peaceful, despite where it was. Rather ironic really.

As she fell asleep, Seiji was returning. She didn't hear him approach, nor did she really see him. She thought she saw a figure, and she had it in her mind that it was Seiji, but she was too exhausted. Sleep was quickly overtaking her.

[b "Welcome home..."] She muttered softly.

Seiji looked a bit surprised to see the young woman in the spot he had left her, was she waiting for him or was it just a coincidence? It was almost comic watching her fade in and out of consciousness right there on the deck. [i What a precarious place to sleep] he thought to himself as he made his way to where she was. The garden was rather large but it took him no time to cover the distance, and arrive to the young Miss' side, kneeling down Seiji noticed that she had fallen fast asleep regardless of the noise the men were still making, even with war on the horizon they stayed up drinking and chattering, calling geisha's and rough housing. Though it seemed obscene to be doing a thing here and at such a crucial time in the revolution, it was a necessity, it was safer here than drunk on the streets and it kept tensions low.

[b "It is not safe here, that it is not."] he mumbled to her before adjusting his sword and leaning down to scoop up the girl in his arms, careful to avoid getting any of the blood on her Kimono. [b "Women should be careful around groups of drunk men, that they should."] Seiji smiled briefly before taking back his grim expression.

Seiji walked quietly to Miss Takatsukasa's room, it was located in another area of the temple grounds and it would seem very odd if someone saw him carrying her around, a man carrying a woman, alone in the dark, covered in blood, it would raise questions, that and a good portion of the people here had never seen Seiji, only heard stories of the demon Hitokiri Battousai. Himura decided to stick to the garden paths, moving quickly across the small bridges under the cover of darkness in between the tall grasses and trees.

She hadn't noticed Seiji picking her up and taking her towards her room. Sayako was fast asleep and dreaming. Once the girl closed her eyes to sleep, she would be asleep, not much waking her until the sun rose. If anything did, it was only by chance most of the time. She didn't fear falling asleep in the garden, having done it before a few times. Someone always seemed to take her to bed, she never really found out who, but she imagined it wasn't the same person each time.

Though many would be weary, Sayako trusted these men very well. She grew up surrounded by most of them, so she had no reason to think against them. Also, they seemed to not want to go against her father's wishes, so most watched their tongues around her. They did for any of the maids, but more so around her. Of course, they never know the language her father used while around her. He was more free willed when it was just the two of them, even with her mother was still alive. She was used to it, but they didn't know and she wouldn't tell them.

The dream she had was peaceful, remembering her father again. She had many of these dreams since his passing a few years ago. They were mostly of when she was little and he would have time to actually play with her. He was busy, and she knew that very well, so she treasured these moments a lot.

While in Seiji's arms, she sighed softly and started to stir. It was one of those chances where she would randomly wake during the night. As she did, she slowly realized she was being carried. But by who? Glancing up, she saw Seiji and smiled a bit.

[b "Good, you made it back safe."] She said softly. [b "I'm sorry I made you carry me, I should've went to my room for the night. But I really liked the stars and fireflies tonight."]

The streets were rather crowded, which was to be expected. People were at stalls, selling goods from near and far. Foods from their family farms, silks from the lands far away, spells and charms to offer good luck or health. If you needed something, you were going to find it here, you just had to know where to look. And so far, she couldn't find the right place.

Lyanna Nightmore, in line for a spot on the Council. She knew what she had, body wise, so she showed it off rather easily. She knew men watched as she walked by, just as she knew some women cursed her as well. Even with a scar taking up half her face, it seemed to only add to her beauty, which was lucky for her. Still, she didn't take it for granted. She used it when she saw fit, but she didn't rely on it solely. She was a powerful gem user, able to create weapons from the gem on her choker. It was her main gem, her most powerful one. She had others, but none of them were as powerful as this one. It wasn't because of the type of gem, or the power that locked inside of it. But because of something else that she wouldn't tell anyone. All they knew was that this gem in particular was powerful and she had it.

She continued through the streets, only stopping at stalls that sold spell ingredients. She was looking for one ingredient in particular, but so far, was having no luck. It was a rare one to find, so she wasn't too much surprised. Still, she really needed to find it if she was going to perform that spell. It was a rather dangerous spell, one that should only be performed by true masters. Lyanna didn't see herself as a true master, but she figured she was close enough to try. Besides, if she pulled this off, it would look great in the eyes of the Council. Might even be enough to get her a seat. Or at least real missions aside from accompanying people from one place to another.

[#6B0648 [b "It's got to be somewhere. Surely someone would have the ingredient..."]] She muttered, leaving yet another store with nothing.

Looking around, Lyanna had to think of any other magic shops that might sell the ingredient. That's when she remembered that a new store had opened recently. The store owner was said to be a spider woman, which scared some people off. Lyanna didn't really have a preference, not like she had seen anything creepier than a spider person before. After all, the scar on her face was from a horrid creature.

So, Lyanna was off to find the store, which wasn't that hard to find. The front had no windows, just a huge wooden door with a sign above it. [#6B0648 [b "So, this is the place. Well, let's hope they have what I need."]]

Opening the door, she stepped into a rather dim shop. No sunlight broke through, aside from when the door opened. It would've been completely dark, if it weren't for the glowing potions hanging on the tops by something. There was a counter with all the spells and ingredients behind it. Some potions were being brewed, others looking like they were about to be bottled or put together. There was another room behind the counter, and stars to the side. A rather nice place for a just starting business.

[#6B0648 [b "Hello?"]] She called, closing the door behind her. [#6B0648 [b "Anyone around?"]]

Business was shit. No one would come in to her shop because she was part spider. Being the child of a drider wasn't the worst thing in the world! She couldn't count on her hands how many times she'd had to throw mobsters out of her store. There was one in particular, this dragon kin guy. Martin.

He'd been spreading rumors about her since she'd thrown him out with his mouth and hands bound by web. If she'd known running a shop would be this difficult, she'd have considered staying with her father. And he was literally half spider.

She was right in the middle of brewing a potion when her phone went off. She reached a carapaced hand and thin fingers into her back pocket under her thick smock. It was a message from Fatui.

[+grey 'Hope the ingredients I delivered work out for you. Tell me if you need anything else. Good luck.']

What a sweetheart. The bubbling cauldron in front of her changed colors rapidly. Uh oh. Time to let this thing rest for a while, she didn't have much choice as her acute senses heard the door open. Hopefully it was actually a customer. She leaned her head out the door of the brewing room to see a woman, a new face. Hopefully a customer.

[+magenta "Hello, and welcome to my parlor. I am Ladrya, how can I help you?"]

She had her thin fingers crossed she was here to fucking BUY something.

Lyanna looked over to see the woman peaking her head out and smiled. [#6B0648 [b "Nice to meet you Ladrya, I'm Lyanna Nightmore. I've been looking for some ingredients. A rather common one and then a special ingredient for a spell but I haven't found it anywhere. It's quite a rare item actually, which is why I'm having a hard time finding it."]]

She walked up to the counter, looking at the potions on the shelf. Seemed she had almost every potion you could think of, which was great. If this woman had what she needed, she might return more often. Still, even if she didn't, she couldn't hold it against her, and would be getting at least one of her ingredients here. After all, she had heard not many people came by. Sadly, Lyanna could think of a few reasons why, and they were reasons she wanted to take care of anyways.

Placing her hands on the table, she smiled softly to the girl. [#6B0648 [b "First, I need some Winter Darning Needle, and then I need Yellow Spring Eytelia. I'll understand if you don't have the Yellow Spring though, but I do need it for a very important spell."]]

Thank. The. Fucking. Gods.

A person with some sensible requests. She wanted one common ingredient, one not so common. But she had the best source for ingredients she knew, a treasure hunter. And one who wasn't afraid to keep his eyes open for a little money.

[+magenta "Certainly, I have what you need here. The Yellow spring is pretty pricy though. You paying in gold, bills or credit?"] she was finally going to make some profit. She was the only GOOD apothecary on this side of the city. People would realize it eventually. She reached under the counter and into one satchel, then another. The requested herbs now on the counter.

Something was troubling her however. Neither of these plants were active reagents. She'd need a catalyst to use these. She may as well bring it up.

[+magenta "I'm not going to claim to know your business, but this spell of yours sounds like it's missing an active catalyst. You realize that right?"] a simple question, she probably shouldn't have asked. Now she seemed nosy.

And the last thing she wanted was more rumors being spread about her.

[+Magenta "By the way, these are Trade standard price if you're buyin'."]

She had leaned over on the counter, reaching under and retrieving a burlap bag for her to use to carry the herbs. Last thing she wanted was a potential future customer getting mugged for valuable reagents.

[#6B0648 [b "Perfect!"]] She called, happy to finally have the Yellow Spring. It was a rare ingredient, only used in a handful of spells, and usually ones that required a lot of training and power.

Lyanna nodded to the woman's question. She was bound to get questioned what she needed the Yellow Spring for. After all, it wasn't every day someone asked for that item. At least Lyanna wouldn't be bothered by it. She figured Ladrya was only asking because it could be used for bad spells. The last thing she needed was people finding out she sold to people using forbidden magics. But Lyanna's intentions were good, never dabbing into the dark stuff because of her position.

[#6B0648 [b "I'm going to use it for the Surge of the Angels spell."]]

It was a spell created long ago, and only used a small number of times. It had been attempted by many, and most failed. The level of failure was rather high, being from just the ingredients burning out, to death in the more horrid way. One slip up and the spell was ruined, no chance in fixing it. You had to be in the right state of mind the whole time, and have the same level of power pouring into it. Of course, Lyanna was told she was insane to try and attempt the spell, but she wasn't going to listen. She knew she could cast it and she was going to.

[#6B0648 [b "Of course."]] Lyanna replied, agreeing to the price. She knew it was going to be pricey, and she had the money, pulling out her sack of gold. Counting the coins needed, she then handed them over, glad she had some coins left. She could go and get a pastry on her way back now.

Surge of the Angels? Seems her store had brought in a crazy one. From what she'd read, it was a spell as misunderstood as it was old. She'd done some reading up on it as a child, but only because it had a lot to do with alchemy.

Her father hadn't been the best dad. He was a drider after all. But he made sure she was the best damn alchemist around and that she knew how the world worked. At least he did that right.

She knew the spell had been incomplete for a long time. It was so old, that was bound to happen. Some of the knowledge got lost between some exchange or another. She didn't even know what the purpose of this spell was, but it was obvious from here that Lyanna was going to end up dead if she continued alone.

[+magenta "You know that spell has been incomplete for a really long time right? Even I don't know everything is supposed to be together for it, though I'm no wizard."] she spoke in a monotone, not sure how she'd help her. Well, the forsaken capital was where the spell was created.

[+magenta "The only place you'll find the original is the forsaken capital, and even then, you'd need a LOT of help to get in there, you'd also have to know where to look."] she dreaded the thought of being out in the sun longer than necessary, but she REALLY needed to make some friends out here.

[+magenta "I could help, for a price."]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond [+orange "Holy shit this was a bad idea."]

He rubbed his hands together in a vain attempt to stave off the creeping cold. There was no snow [i yet] but that didn't mean it wasn't damn freezing this high up. A dungeon was his goal. There was one up here, supposedly. Only when he found himself there did he recognize the near impossibility of his task. All around were mountainous cliffs. Jagged cliffs and patches of vegetation clinging to the rock as if they were slowly slipping, a second away from plummeting.

[+orange "Sure, the damn thing is supposed to be up here. Somewhere. But how in the hell am I supposed to find it?! FUCK!"]

He kicked a nearby rock off the ledge, and watched it sail out of sight below. He'd made himself a small camp at the center of a rocky plateau. A tent, and a campfire. Basic stuff. He could build a fortress if he wanted, in a matter of hours even... but that would be a waste of resources and gold.

Stomping back to the camp he sat down next to the fire, pointing his hands to the fire. The man grumbled.

[+orange "If only frost resistance ACTUALLY worked against this cold... Stupid as hell."]

After a moment he laid down. Cold and tired, spending a few hours at camp resting was something he wasn't entirely against. It had been nearly a week of searching these mountains only to continuously turn up, not a fucking thing.

A ravenous core. That was what he needed. It was what they had used back then, and it was what he was going to use again.

The warmth of the fire convinced him to close his eyes. Sure, he had a bedroll, and a tent, but moving the tent any closer to the fire... A bad idea. You can't exactly put a fire inside of, or too near a tent for a large number of well known good reasons. So in an attempt to shield himself slightly from the wind, he curled up next to the fire. A nap should be fine. A passing thought warned him that he should probably set an alarm through the menu system, but he figured it would be fine as is.


Not like there was anyone real waiting on him any more...

A pair of black silhouettes were painted against the snow. The man they stalked either hadn't taken notice of them or didn't care. Most likely the former. Black chitin and pale skin were the defining features. The figures were both gaunt, and could easily be mistaken as shadows of the mountain. They were looking at what appeared to be a lone adventurer in a camp that had been assembled on the plateau. The feminine figure drew back her hood, blood red hair spilling out onto her shoulders. She chuckled to herself, loud enough to hear.

[+violet "Is he really just going to go to sleep there?"] four eyes, each tinged a bloody red stared down the man who'd lain next to his campfire. She chuckled again, and ran her tongue over the fangs that hung over her lower lip. The other figure, a very shrouded one, his features hidden under a porcelain mask, spoke up.

[+purple "I certainly hope not. He's gotten so close to his goal."] the masculine figure stepped over the snowbank, his fine, black leather boots crunching the snow down as he approached the camp. From either side of himself hung an ornate blade, one straight, the other for thrusting. His pants were finely tailored, black,and tucked neatly into his boots. From the waist up his body was bound in wrappings, all the way down to his fingers, not a bit of his skin was visible, but his hair hung unkempt from the top of his head, ending just below where his ears presumably were.

The woman was behind him, wearing a heavy parka, and a pair of what seemed to be blue jeans. She didn't have any weapons, but her face was alluring, dangerously so. Her skin was as pale as the snow she walked on, a regular pair of grey sneakers donning her feet. Anyone who looked at her could tell she was spiderkin. The four eyes, the fangs, and the large bobbing abdomen that swayed behind her. Her compatriot was some unidentified humanoid, but they knew each other, and knew each other well.

[+violet "So, what brings the fly to the spiders web?"]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond His bright blue eyes snapped open at her words. Just as his hand had found the alarm clock instinctively in the past, it found his sword.

[+orange "Nnnggh. Can't even take a nap this far up without some shit happening."]

In a flash he was up and at them, taking a fighting stance, his feet spread wide. Nearly put a foot in the fire to do that, and had to shuffle slightly to the side to actually achieve this action.. The sword was visually of low quality, with several chips in the blade. One could almost catch tetanus just from looking at the thing, with how rusted it was. It was held out towards them, angled strangely sideways, a slight indication that he was probably

On his chest was a dark plate that if one had observed him moments ago, was not there. It was chitinous not entirely unlike that which one of his two foes possessed naturally.

Analyzing his opponents, he found one to be a mummy and the other to be... a spider girl.

He frowned, as if he'd suddenly been fed something bitter. This wasn't going to be pleasant, he surmised.

[+orange "Well.. we gunna do this or what..."] He nodded towards the mummy, or more specifically his swords.

[+purple "Very well, let us do this."]

He looked back at the woman for a brief moment. The woman nodded towards the man, and he rushed quickly into the adventurers sword range, not having drawn his blade, but rather throwing out his arm quickly. He grabbed the adventurers hand and quickly began shaking it vigorously. After a moment or two of the adventurer letting his sword arm hang limply in an awkward silence, the man stopped and took his mask off, revealing a faintly masculine face, gentle curves feeding into a strong jawline with a pair of stern purple, and faintly luminescent eyes. His fangs were hanging ominously from his upper jaw, and his breath smelt faintly sweet.

[+purple "My name is Fatui."]

[+violet "My name is Magistra,] [+magenta and we are spider siblings."]

They had no reason to kill this man. They were up here for the dungeon, same as him. It only made sense to the two of them to work together.

[+violet "I'm an alchemist and Fatui here is a sword for hire more often than not, sometimes he's a male pros-"]

[+purple "What my sister is trying to say is that we are here for a rare ingredient for a wealthy customer. It should be in the nearby dungeon, and we wanted to know if you wanted to tag along."] he had backed away from the man at this point, replacing his mask and shrugging his shoulders at the end of his statement, an informal party invitation.

If he didn't accept, it wasn't any skin off their back. It would just take a fair bit longer to clear the place out.

[+violet "We aren't looking for trouble, we just know this dungeon doesn't get visitors too often, so any help is welcome."]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond

With an exhale he let out the sudden tenseness that had come with having his 'opponent' rush him, only to shake his hand.

[+orange [i That's some speed holy shit.]] He thought to himself, as the man introduced the two of them.

It took a moment for their words to sink in, as he had been lost in the concept that for once, he wasn't dealing with hostile shitstains. If the guy was going to attack him, the dude would have used that speed to hit him while he was napping.

[+orange "..Wait, so yall know where the dungeon is? Hooooh. I been up here for the last week trying to find that stupid thing."]

He let out a dry, half laugh.

[+orange "Shit yeah.. That. That sounds nice.. I'm St-"]

He tripped over his name, almost forgetting that if they weren't hostile now, dropping his name might change that. The fact that his name would be revealed if he joined their party forced him to follow through.

[+orange "Stax... "]

There was a short pause after he said his name, as he attempted to read their faces for any sort of change. Either they didn't care, or it was much more difficult to understand the subtle facial ques that indicated derision, of someone who didn't have an entirely human face.

He found himself staring slightly too long at the girl's face. Magistra.
Dropping the usual 'fuck it, it's probably fine if I haven't been stabbed yet' logicbomb on the aforementioned infamy thing he returned to the issue at hand.

[+orange "Ahem. Nice to meet you guys. Leme just grab my shit and we can get on our way then.. eh?"]

They had caught him off guard, as they did with every fly. This one was particularly useful, and from the way he looked at Magistra, he may very well be caught in a different web altogether. Magistra smiled honestly, giving her plump lips a lick to keep the frost from building up on them. At that though, she put her hood back on her head, ass length red hair still spilling out onto the black parka.

Fatui answered his questions while she remained silent, rooting around in a leather satchel on her side for something.

[+purple "Yes, we've been before. Your issue is that the door often gets snowed in. We have an easy way through that little obstacle though."] it ticked in Magistra's mind that Stax was a name she knew. She'd even seen him fight before. She knew who he was. At this thought she chuckled.

[+violet "You're [b that] Stax aren't you! I saw you fight! I actually won a lot of gold that day."] it was then that she bit her tongue quickly. Fatui sighed aloud.

[+violet "Hope you still fight that fiercely. Who knows what we'll run into in there. Come on."] it seemed he had grabbed most of his necessities.

The three of them set off, Fatui leading the way while Magistra and Stax followed. The telltale signs of a trail were there, except not. Fatui was leading by memory alone, he could see something the other two couldn't until he stopped at what seemed to be just a massive snowbank.

[+purple "Alright Magistra, do your thing."] with a little giggle she stepped forward while Fatui stepped back. She quickly took her parka off, revealing her pale skin to the winter weather, an ornate bustier being her only clothing under it, and upon the black leather were dozens of tiny strange vials. But those weren't what she was reaching for, she was turning her parka inside out, revealing a grey furred interior lined with bigger potions, all glowing red and emitting a warmth that could be felt several feet away. She tied the inside out garment about her waist and began tossing the potions into the snow.

[+violet "Cover your ears boys!"] at this, a multitude of fiery explosions erupted from the snow, blowing or melting it away and revealing in the side of the mountain, a massive and meticulously designed door.

[+Magenta "Here we are."]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond As he stamped out the fire, evidently Magistra did know him, as she promptly explained.

[+orange "Ehe. Well. Not sure how to take that. Thanks for not betting on the other guy I guess?" ]

As they reached what Fatui seemed to say was their destination, he couldn't help but be puzzled as Magistra pulled out several potions.

[+orange "Wait.. those aren't-"]

A multitude of explosions drowned out his words, as his jaw dropped. When the seemingly mad alchemist was done chucking potions he cried out.

[+orange "YOU HAVE GRENADES?! I MEAN, UH. EXPLODING... BOMB... POTIONS?!"]

The adventurer seemed quite surprised at what Magistra had in her arsenal. She chuckled a little.

[+violet "Don't know much about alchemy do you big guy? I've got explosive potions, poisons, acids, healing pots, aphrodisiacs and love potions. If you're looking to buy, that is."] she'd say shooting him a wink and meshing her carapaced hands together, inverting them, then pushing them outwards, causing her knuckles to pop.

[+purple "Let's get inside before the weather decides to pick up."] With these words, Fatui moved to the center of the huge door and put his wrapped hands on them, pushing with all his might. And sure enough, a loud creaking could be heard as the ancient door moved aside before his strength. The berth was so wide that Fatui had to step forward whilst opening it. After a few seconds of effort, the doors were open wide enough for the three of them to enter with little issue.

On the inside was a massive antechamber, looking more befitting for a tomb. It was warm, and ancient Braziers burned all over the room.

[+violet "Alright Fatui, and Stax I guess. I'm guessing you aren't great at identifying alchemical reagents. I'm looking for Malokk's Grasp. It's a lot like ivy, but hostile. I need about two feet of it. I remember one of the tombs in this place had some wrapped around it last time I was here."] Fatui nodded in her direction, moving forward to begin exploring the chamber.

[+purple "Let's see what we can get into."]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond

[+orange "I.. uh. Know some...Er yeah, lets just get inside. I like that idea"]

The three would advance inside the dungeon, the front chamber presenting likely the least danger of all the room. Usually they were safe. Usually.

[+Orange "Yo, Fatui, we might want to party up before we actually start moving forward. Even if it is only temporary. So I guess the question is do you want me to invite the two of you, or, as I assume you are already in one of your own, will you be inviting me?"]

[+Violet "I'll invite you. Just a moment."] She closed her eyes for a moment, and focused on Stax for a brief moment, just long enough that when she opened her eyes again, he had a pending invitation to their party. He would be a good fighter if he could keep up. If he couldn't, he'd make a nice distraction.

[+purple "Good thing you reminded her. She's generally party leader cause she's a rog-"]

[+Violet "[b Alchemist.] I don't call you a fighter. I call you a duelist."] she'd say, wanting everyone to refer to her prestige class CORRECTLY.

[+Violet "Just accept the invite and we'll be on our way."]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond [+orange "Good good."]

He quickly accepted it. The first thing of note would be the fact that he completely lacked the usual blue mana bar, and that instead, there was a gold bar in its place. Something that, was entirely unheard of.

Secondly his class was called Bio-Knight, which to the knowledge of an inhabitant of this world was a gibberish word preceding an actual class.

Lastly his level was unusually high. 37, just 3 shy from the wall that was 40. It was possible to go above 40, but the amount of EXP one needed to do so was insanely high compared to how much one could earn at that point.

[+orange "Your card isn't broken on your end. Lets just say its an issue on my end, so don't worry about that stuff."]

He'd managed to explain away the strangeness of his stats that way before, and so it only made sense to do so here.

[+Violet "If you aren't questioning any of my extra meters, I'm not questioning yours."] she had a strange character portrait as well. Of note was a bar that looked like webbing, and a bar that was a wispy green, and an adjacent that had a wispy pink. Both of them had these bars, but Fatui had an extra that had nothing in it and simply read "Rhythm" on the backdrop. Though, all duelists had a rhythm bar, it built up as the fight went on and was expended when he performed actions specific to a duelist.

The other three bars were spiderkin specific, two representing poison, the other representing how much webbing their body had available.

Both of them had these bars.

[+purple "Bio-Knight? The hell?"]

[+Violet "Nevermind that, he's level thirty seven. I've only known one person higher and that was mom. Level forty something."]

[+purple "Level forty two. Yes, then she vanished. Likely to ascend."] the two of them hadn't even breached thirty. They were both level twenty seven, each having taken twenty levels in their base class and seven in a specialty.

[+Violet "Again, nice to have you along. Let's get on with this, shall we?"]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond

It was liable to be a short meeting, as the duo only had to advance what was likely only part way into the dungeon, but even still, it would be nice to save his strength for when they parted ways. He was after all, intending to go all the way down.

[+orange "That was what I meant. I'm not as strong as that number would have you believe..."]

While that wasn't entirely true, it wasn't entirely false either.

[+orange "Well either way, now that we have that settled, we can push forward with... reckless abandon!"]

Obviously joking, he nodded for Fatui to proceed as he had intended.

Even though it had been revealed that he was higher level than they were, he had no intention of doing anything more now. Besides that, it was best someone who was familiar with the place lead.

It was at Fatui nodding back to Stax that the room began to rumble. It was growing in intensity, and a giant ring began to spin in the center of the room, all the while, the rumbling was growing stronger. Fatui had been trained to hold his stance under intends circumstances, but Magistra was sent flying across the room. She reached out to grab a hold of something, but didn't find anything, so she found herself slammed into a wall, where she loosed a little web from her abdomen, and proceeded to put her hand on it.

It lasted about a minute, the ring finally stopping its spinning, as it did, the ancient mechanism crumbled and collapsed, the floor beneath them breaking apart and falling deep into the mountain.

Magistra drug herself to her feet, wiping some dirt off of her parka.

[+Violet "So, that's never happened."]

[google-font http://fonts.googleapis.com/css?family=EB+Garamond] [size15 [EB+Garamond Stax nearly fell on his side as the floor began to move, instead managing to turn the fall into a 'I meant to kneel down on the floor like this' kind of pose.

[+orange "The hell... why is th- oh its going faster."]
Realizing the floor was speeding up even more, he slammed his hands one at a time deep into the stone, and then followed with his feet.

Notably the armor on his torso had disappeared, a set of spiky carapace-like gauntlets and sabatons had taken their place on his hands and feet respectively. This would have the effect of lodging the man into the ground like a tick.

This would also force the man into an indiana jones style run as the center collapsed. Fortunately he was quick enough to not have to partake in the cliche that was; jumping at the last second as the bits of stone crumbled away beneath him and just barely catching the ledge.

When the rumbling had stopped, he let out an annoyed sigh, an equally irritated look on his face.

[+orange "It will of course be one of [i THOSE] dungeons isn't it. Great start..."] After scanning the room to assure the other two hadn't fallen in, he added, [+orange "AND the door is closed."] Having noted that the entrance had either closed on its own or one of them closed it and he didn't notice. Either case was entirely plausible.

[+violet "Not in any of the times of my being here has that ever happened. Sure the place is an old ass tomb, but the mechanisms never functioned for us. And they sure as hell didn't break apart."] Magistra drug herself to her feet by her little webbed hand, dusting herself off further and walking to where the floor had broken apart.

Peering down already was Fatui, his eyes not particularly surprised by what he saw down there. A big light, coming from some indiscernible object far below where they were currently standing.

[+purple "Yeah, so. That's a core."] Magistra could tell from there as well, a rare and arcane thing.

[+violet "Now that's a treasure worth taking, but I'm sure you already knew that was there Stax."] Magistra, the more cunning of the two had put that together easily. Why else would one person spend a week looking for this place?

She was tired. Stumbling along, she had used a lot of energy to get away. Even though it was easy to do, that didn't mean it wouldn't take a lot of energy. But she had gotten away, and she was glad for that. But now where would she go? Clutching her book tightly, she continued on through the small alleyway she suddenly appeared in.

Transportation was a tricky one. It's easy to use, but no one ever mentioned just how much you needed for a spell. It depended on how far you wanted to go and since she didn't know how far or where exactly she wanted to end up she was bound to use up a lot. Now that she was paying for it, she had to figure out her next move.

She was in a strange place, not seeing anything familiar around her as she looked out into the street. She just hoped it was far away enough to where she wouldn't have to worry about that person. Even if that left her with nothing but her notebook, she was okay with that. That's how she usually lived anyways, so why would it be any different?

The girl couldn't walk any further, sitting down at the edge of the alley. She needed to catch her breath and relax before she passed out of exhaustion. Her bare feet didn't feel the cold of the sidewalk at all, and she wasn't cold in the least with just wearing a white sun-type dress. Her long black hair was a bit wild, but that was normal, and her blue eyes seemed to glow softly in the shadows. She was alone, once again.

A couple of guys who seemed to be rather tough walked up to her. She quickly looked away, not wanting to get into anything. She was too tired for this, and she didn't wish to be chased out of another town so soon after leaving the last one. They seemed to not care though, calling her names, asking if she wanted to have a good time. After a few minutes of ignoring, she felt a hand grab her dress and pull her up to be face to face with one of the guys. He was obviously drunk, and that's what made it scary. She still held her book, but she couldn't think of anything to do. She couldn't yell for help, nor could she tell the guy to stop. What was going to happen to her now?

Another night, another couple of degenerates who weren't getting back into his bar. This young lady was fortunate he was taking the trash out at the exact moment she was getting harassed. Dante reached to his side and pulled a revolver from a holster on his belt, a glimmering steel piece, old fashioned and with intricate engravings made in the barrel. He held the weapon to the sky and pulled the hammer back, the distinct clicking sound echoing through the alleyway.

The men made no motion at the sound, so he pulled the trigger. The bullet bounced off of some brickwork he just so happened to be aiming at. At the noise, the two drunks fell to the ground, the girl being released in the process. One turned back to look at him.

[+red "Hey, whaddyou want?"] He struggled just to get back on his feet. Dante took a moment to formulate his response.

[+Teal "To put a bullet in your kneecap, you two have exactly one opportunity to leave peacefully before I do so."] even in the dim light shining from a streetlight behind himself, he could see the men's forms. Neither of them were terribly imposing. Then neither was Dante.

[+yellow "Yeah, so why don't you? You a chicken?"] Welp, that was all the antagonizing that Dante was in the mood for. He quickly shifted his arm to aim at the man's kneecap and pulled the trigger. The sound of a gunshot echoed, but went unnoticed as the man's cries of pain quickly overlapped them.

[+red "Jesus Christ! You shot him!"] The man went to his friends side and tried to calm him down, but the man was squirming on the ground in a frantic manner.

[+teal "Yeah, I did. And I don't want him bleeding in my alleyway. Beat it."] at that, the man grabbed his shrieking friend and vacated the space as fast as he could, given his friend still bawling about having a bullet wound. Dante put his weapon back where it belonged, and approached the young woman, and took a notice of her lack of shoes, or, belongings in general.

[+teal "Are you alright? Are you homeless, running from somebody?"]

With the sound of the gunshot, she looked over to see who it was with the gun. She hoped this guy wasn't some kind of leader of these drunk guys. Thankfully, though, it seemed he wasn't, telling them to leave before he shot them. The men were too drunk to really heed his warning, one challenging him to shoot. she could tell just by the look of the guy with the gun that he wasn't joking around.

And he proved it by shooting the guy in the knee. She was quickly dropped and she pushed herself up against the wall, so not to become the next target. The men were scared, quickly carrying off their wounded friend, hopefully, to the nearest hospital.

Her heart was still racing from all that had happened that she almost missed what the man asked her. She blinked a few times and glanced at him for a second or two before she opened her book and quickly wrote. She was a fast writer, and her handwriting was surprisingly readable. When she finished she held it up for him to read.

[+blue Both I guess. Running from someone and ended up here. Thank you for helping me. My name is Azura.]

She quickly realized something and added to what she had written, showing him again.

[+blue I can't speak, so I write.]

When she was sure he was done reading, she closed the book and held it against her chest tightly as she waited for a response.

Couldn't speak, on the run. No home to speak of.

This wasn't the first runaway Dante had run across, she wouldn't be the last.

[+teal "Name's Terra, Dante. I own that bar right there. We're closed right now, but I've got an extra room. Come on inside."] Dante walked back to the door he'd come out of, holding it open for the girl. As he did, a woman with short black hair and a bored expression on her face came out of it, she was taking a drag on her cigarette and walking to the opposite side of the alley to smoke.

[+green "Damn Dante, did you HAVE to shoot the guy?"] she asked, smoke coming out of her mouth with her words. Then she looked to the girl, eyeing her up and down.

[+green "Who's she?"]

[+Teal "Another runaway."] the woman scoffed at him, it turning into a chuckle, before she took another drag on her cigarette.

[+green "You need to start a business taking them in."] She flicked the cigarette at Dante, the filter bouncing off of his vest as she left the alley, heading for her car no doubt.

[+teal "I'll take that under advisement Liz. Come on Azura, I'm no enemy of yours."]

Azura nodded and started to follow him towards the door. She stopped as a woman walked out, taking a smoke. The woman looked at her and Azura tried to make herself seem small, so not to be a threat. Seemed it either worked or the woman just didn't care at all, simply asking who she was and then actually not caring at all.

So, Dante took in runaways a lot. Perhaps she could be okay here for a bit. She wouldn't stay here long, she never could. Someone was bound to figure out about her abilities, and then either chase her away or try to use her. It was always the same.

As the woman walked away, Azura made her way into the building. She wasn't too worried if the guy was lying, having her own escape always at the ready. She wrote in her book again and held it up for him.

[+blue Thank you for letting me stay. How shall I return the favor?]

Azura always believed in paying back someone, especially if they did a kindness towards her. It was also her way of figuring out if she could really trust this person or not simply by telling her what she could do in return. While she wasn't a master at reading people, she still had enough skill to know if she should run or not.