*shadow Ninja*

Leo, gash was getting worse with each passing second the kick sent some of the blood toward red but also made it pour out quicker. He had practically no sight in one eye at this point. However she got in too close for his recovery, she hesitated. Giving Leo the opportunity to headbutt her, He was realizing he had to end this soon and so when she stumbled back he dropped his broadsword and reached for one of his daggers in his shirt, unholstering it he threw it over her right shoulder, long enough to distract her and slam his shield into her gut again.

this time, while she was winded he tackled her to the ground. In the scramble he got on top of her and reached for his second dagger as quickly as possible, Kitsume, finally realizing what it is like to lose. Being at Leo’s mercy he pushed the dagger down towards her neck and stabbed it into the ground next to her. An inch closer would have killed her.

Leo was catching his breath, he luckily came to his senses before he killed her, Red, was likely on edge with how close that was. Finally when he caught enough of his breath he leaned into kitsume and claimed his prize. He gave her a long kiss on the lips. And grabbed the dagger from the ground. Getting off of her he stood up, reaching out to help her up.

“I’m not your superior. Kitsume, you’re my equal.” He smiled before the adrenaline wore off and he felt the stinging pain or the gash above his eye. He winced a little wiped his eye with the sleeve of his shirt. Realizing that Red had no medical experience he turned to Kitsume. “Hey uh....” He paused “this might be mighty inconvenient to ask, considering we were just trying to kill each other. But you think you can maybe patch up my eye?” His face was flushed with embarrassment.

 

Leo did as she said, pushing the fabric against his head, the chance of Infection probably wasn’t all that high anyway. Though it would be ill advised he walked over to his thrown dagger and and holstered it again, along with the one he grabbed from the ground. Walking over to his broadsword he sheathed that as well before eventually making his way to Red, and sitting down on the steps once again.

Leo smirked and couldn’t miss the opportunity he had. “I know you probably thought I was seeing RED.” He said to Red. Before letting out a laugh.

 

Red didn't turn to face the newcomer, keeping his eyes focused on the duel. However, he had noticed her approaching and turn his head ever so slightly in her direction as he replied.
"Got a duel going on. I'm here to make sure they don't accidentally kill each other."
There were a couple of close calls, close enough that a bead of sweat rolled down Red's cheek. However, even when Leo held a dagger dangerously close to Kitsume, Red didn't intervene. Once again, he turned his head slightly as he explained why to the newcomer.
"See, you might be thinking "he's about to slice her open!" But that's not the case. I've had enough duels with him myself to know when he's seriously out for blood and right now, he's just showboating a little bit."
However, despite his calm demeanor and aloof explanation, another bead of sweat rolled down his cheek.
"At least...I'm pretty sure that's what just happened. I think. I hope."
In the blink of an eye, the tense moment passed and Leo was soon claiming his rightfully-earned prize, to which Red gave a quick wolf whistle.
"Heh. That probably looked a little weird without context, but long story short, they made a bet before the duel started."

Red gave a light laugh as he replied.
"Nice one."
He gave Leo a thumbs up before turning his full attention to the newcomer.
"Fun show, huh? If they go at it again, I'm totally charging admission. Anyway, the name's Wulfred, but I usually just go by Red. You don't look like you're from around these parts, so what's your story?"

Alkelda spoke up first.
"Not at all, thank you for hospitality, Lord Kaname. That being said, I am curious about that...situation you mentioned. What happened here?"
Theodoric spoke up so Falicita wouldn't have to.
"As I said, it is a rather delicate matter. Suffice it to say, the Nagasaki have rather unique customs and at times, they engage in...rather aggressive negotiations with dignitaries and local lords."
Ranulf chuckled.
"What, seriously? That's pretty badass."
"Hmm. Yes, 'badass' indeed. In any event, I would like the two of you to keep that particular encounter to yourselves."
Alkelda and Ranulf nodded, and the conversation carried on.

"Now then, I would like to hear your latest report. As I said, Kaname is a trusted friend and I have no qualms with him hearing anything you might have to say."
Alkelda nodded.
"Of course, my lord. We arrived at our destination without incident and after some searching, we found the two warriors that the rumors spoke of. Their names are Shizukesa and Cinder, and they seemed to be in some kind of relationship. Negotiations went smoothly--for the most part--and they have agreed to join our cause, so we gave them directions to our capital in Shiroyama Forest; they should be headed that way as we speak."
"I see. Then it seems as though the mission was a resounding success. Gods be praised, I was beginning to think that good fortune had forsaken us entirely."
Ranulf raised an eyebrow.
"So...things haven't gone that smoothly over here?"
Theodoric sighed, taking a moment to choose his words carefully.
"It is as you say. I will explain further in due time, but for now, could you give me a moment with Lord Kaname? I need to ask him an important question in private."
Alkelda and Ranulf looked at each other, then back to Theo, unsure of what to make of the situation.
"Yes...of course, my lord."
"You got it, Boss Man."
The two stepped out of the room and closed the door behind them. When they did, Theo turned to Falicita with a deadly serious expression.
"I will get straight to the point. I believe we should inform them of the situation in full. They will keep your secret to their dying breath if I tell them to, and they may be better able to assist you if they fully understand what has happened. That being said...I understand how important your secrecy is to you, and if you do not wish for them to know, I will keep them in the dark for the time being. That being said, I have a feeling they will find the truth at some point, but I can keep your secret for now if you wish. I have made my recommendation, as I believe it will be easier for all involved if we let them in now, but the choice is ultimately yours.

 

Leo was used to injury and getting patched up. He didn’t even flinch when the rubbing alcohol went into his open wound. As kitsume hovered the thread over his eye and asked him if he was okay he just nodded. As she stitched him up he paid attention to the new people who approached Red.

He only listened as their conversation went on, waiting and allowing for Red to make new friends. while Kitsume was patching him up he took a moment to reflect on the battle. During that time he didn’t realize he seemed to be staring kitsume down and smiling.

As she finished up he took the moment to speak up. “We should get moving once Red is done talking to his new friends. we should also probably get the old man and save the princess, she is waiting for her knights in a shining chariot after all.”

 

Red caught the bag of coins, a look of surprise on his face at the stranger's sudden generosity. As he put the coins away, he composed himself and waved back to Serako.
"Likewise. Take care of yourself out there."

Red smiled and took her teasing in stride.
"New girlfriend, huh? Well, she was pretty cute and she helped me score some gold, so I think I'd be alright with that."
He shrugged.
"As for where she went, no clue, she wouldn't say. It seemed like she wanted to keep to herself, like she's got something to hide. I wonder what that's all about."
Then he gave a dismissive wave.
"Ah well, no use worrying about it now. Who knows? Maybe we'll run into each other again somewhere down the road."
He gave her a little grin, ready to give some teasing right back.
"Or maybe not, after all, not all of us can be as lucky as you two. Ahh, to see true love blooming on the battlefield...it's just so darn poetic!"
He gave Kitsume a pat on the shoulder.
"Just so you know, you've got my blessing, and I would love to be Leo's best man."

Theodoric fell silent for a brief moment with a subtle, nostalgic look on his face. He chuckled a little as he replied.
"Ahh, my apologies, I was lost in my thoughts. For you see, your brother asked me almost exactly the same question soon after we first met; in fact, his expression looked much like yours does now. It reminded me of just how similar the two of you truly are."
After reminiscing for a time, the smile faded from his face, settling into a melancholic expression.
"Truth be told, I had hoped that Kaname would have explained all of this to you at some point. Though I can see why he never found the time. It is not a story easily told, and it is certainly not a tale to uplift one's spirits. Even so, it is a story worth telling, and one that absolutely must be remembered."
He stood up from his chair and started making his way to the door.
"Before we begin, I would like Alkelda and Ranulf to join us. They need to hear the truth anyhow, and when they do, they can help me tell our story."
He opened the door and fortunately, Alkelda and Ranulf were waiting patiently, having put aside their bickering for the time being. They grasped the gravity of the situation and silently waited for their king to speak.
"We have much to discuss. Come."

After closing the door and locking it, the three sat down and Theodoric began, addressing his subordinates.
"I want the two of you to understand that what I am about to tell you is to be treated with the utmost secrecy. I tell you this because I know you both to be warriors of honor and strong character, and I trust you without reservation. Therefore, I call upon you to swear your most solemn oath that you will keep this information secret and safe, no matter the circumstances. Swear."
Alkelda nodded.
"I swear it, my lord. Upon my honor and my life."
Ranulf nodded as well.
"I swear it. On my warrior's pride."
"Very well, then."
He looked to Falicita.
"I can tell you, as surely as the coming of the morning sun, your secret is safe. Now...Alkelda, Ranulf, there is something you must know. The person sitting before you is not Lord Kaname."

Ranulf turned and gave Theodoric a wide-eyed stare. Alkelda gasped in surprise and spoke up.
"My lord?! But...how can this..."
She turned to Falicita.
"Then...a body double?"
"Hardly, she is no mere decoy. I tell you truly that she is Kaname's flesh and blood. You see before you Kaname's sister, Falicita."
"Sister...?"
Ranulf leaned forward.
"I was right! Well, I mean, I wouldn't have guessed this exactly, but I knew that something about her seemed a little...I don't know, feminine? But I don't know much about the Nagasaki clan, so I thought maybe my gut instinct was way off."
Theo shook his head.
"It would seem your instinct is as keen as ever."
Ranulf slumped in his chair, exhaling deeply.
"Well, I'll be damned..."
"But then...what happened to Lord Kaname?"
Alkelda had a look of deep concern as she turned to Theodoric, who simply shrugged.
"We do not know where he is, currently. There was a terrible accident, a fire that had spread out of control, and Kaname risked his own life to save another. He was nowhere to be found when the fire died out, and his whereabouts are still unknown. That is precisely why I must return home soon. I wish to begin the search for Kaname in earnest, as his return cannot come soon enough in these dark times. But for now, Falicita rules in his stead, and I would have her know the truth behind the White Lion clan."

Alkelda and Ranulf lowered their heads into solemn, reflective gazes. Theodoric continued, now looking to Falicita.
"First, an answer to your question. Although I have never felt that the title is entirely appropriate for my position, and even though I feel less than worthy to call myself as such, by the tradition of the White Lions, I am indeed the king of my people. However, a great deal of context needs to be given for that title."
He leaned forward, resting his head on his folded hands, his eyes lost in an empty stare.
"It was about ten years ago now. As I'm sure you are aware, we were not born in this country, we came here from a faraway land. The continent we hail from is called Eirgaror and it is home to the Alamannia Alliance, which we were once a part of. We were a proud warrior culture; in battle, we show honor and ferocity, and in all other matters, we show grace and chivalry. This was our tradition, our code, our creed, and though we were a harsh people, we were dignified and proud."
He sighed.
"Perhaps we were too proud. You see, we had been a strictly isolationist people for many, many years. Having emerged victorious from a long and bloody war with a foreign nation some centuries ago, our ancestors wanted nothing more to do with the outside world, and policies were put into place that endured for centuries. Eventually, distrust gave way to hatred, and that hatred led to a prideful sense of superiority among the Alamannian people. Even so, we were content to leave the outside world alone...until one man took the nation's power for himself."

Anger welled up in Theodoric's narrowed eyes.
"Origen Damascius. Preying upon the people's fears, their pride, and their long-hidden greed and ambition, he rose to prominence quickly in the Alliance. He made grand promises of untold riches and unlimited possibilities that were supposedly waiting just outside our doorstep. Through sheer charisma and devious political schemes, his grew by leaps and bounds, and there was no doubt that he would soon become the supreme ruler of the land. There were some who had foreseen his ascension, and they worked in secret to protect our country. But they could not operate in secret for long. When they were inevitably discovered, their secret machinations turned to open rebellion, and they did their utmost to rally the people against the newly-crowned Emperor Origen. Leading the charge...was none other than my father, Theodemir. At the request of the allied lords who rebelled, he was named King Theodemir, ruler of the Free Peoples of Alamannia."
Theodoric hadn't even noticed that a slight smile found its way into his expression.
"They say that he fought like a dragon in human form, with an unyielding ferocity that inspired terror in his enemies and perhaps his allies to some degree. I wanted nothing more than to join him on the field of battle, but he would not have it. "Stay home, my son, and stay safe. For you are the future of your people." I remember those words quite clearly, and as much as I hated to be left behind, I took them to heart."

His expression turned grim, clearly showing the sting of grief.
"Now...I will never have the chance to fight at his side. Even though he was a wise leader and a great tactician, and despite the bravery of those who fought at his side, he was vastly outnumber and the tide of war eventually turned against him. City after city was reclaimed by the Emperor, and as my father lost ground, many lords lost faith in his rule and withdrew from the cause. Soon after, it became apparent that he was fighting a losing battle, and he made what was surely the most difficult decision of his life. In a secret meeting with the remaining lords, he called for a mass evacuation from the land of Eirgaror, to a distant land where the fires of war would not consume what little of our free nation remained. Our people, our army, and our ships gathered at a port city on the edge of the continent and preparations were made. However...my father would not be joining us."
He paused for a moment.
"This city was hidden behind a tall and treacherous mountain range, giving it a natural defense against invasion. There was only one passageway through the mountain, and it was a narrow one at that. Our plans were eventually discovered by the enemy, an outcome not entirely unexpected, hence our decision to evacuate from there specifically. My father...took a small detachment of warriors to the pass to hold off the enemy army. Despite the overwhelming disadvantage they faced, they held the line for countless hours, giving us the time we needed to set off on our journey. The Emperor's ships did not pursue quickly enough to find us, and we set off for a new place to settle. To his last dying breath...my father fought for his people, for my mother, for myself, and he gave us a chance at a new life. I will always be grateful to him for that."

At this point, Ranulf chimed in.
"Hard to believe it's been ten years since this all happened. I had just turned 13 when word got to us on the countryside. My mother woke us up in the morning, and damn it all if I don't perfectly remember the horrified expression she had on her face. She told us the war was over, and...we lost. She said we were leaving, and when I asked when we were coming back, she just shook her head and said "pack your things. Hurry, or we'll miss the ships!" I still didn't completely understand what was happening, but I know this for sure, I've never been so scared in my life."

Then Alkelda spoke up.
"I remember...asking my parents if I could join the last battle. I told them I was ready. I can wield a sword. I am ready to lay my life down for my people! But they told me that the king would never allow it. He chose those warriors very specifically. He only took men and women who were older, more experienced, and most importantly, had no family to care for. He made sure that wives, husbands, sons and daughters made it aboard the ships...to keep those families together in whatever their new life held for them. I was so thankful to King Theodemir for that...because it meant that my father, who had been in the army until that point, could join us in our new life.

Theodoric continued.
"The rest of the story is fairly straightforward. Without hesitation, the remaining lords named me as King Theodemir's successor, even though we hardly had enough people left to call ourselves a proper nation. When we first arrived here, Shiroyama Forest was a dangerous, inhospitable place, a wretched den of thieves, assassins, and secrets exchanged in the dark. We took up the challenge to purge the land of such filth, and when we did, we settled down in their place, leading to the formation of the White Lion clan. That is the story of my clan, and of the looming threat that comes this way."

 

“Don’t get ahead of yourself Red.” Leo playfully responded. “If you were anywhere near as cute I’d have laid one on you already too.” He stood up smirking. Before taking into consideration what Kitsume was saying. He thought about it for a moment or two, or three.

“I suppose you’re right we should clean ourselves up... but... I wanna get moving. Decisions, decisions... hmmmmmm....” It was clear that Leo wanted to be lazy by his reaction if he bathed he’d want to sleep, delaying his plans of leaving. Then he came up with a bright idea. “Kitsume! You can clean up for the both of us.” He smiled at his newfound genius idea.

Though Kitsume didn’t seem too happy at his response. Leo turned his attention to Red, and his now lined pockets. “Guess you have the next few days of drinking lined up for us after getting paid for the spectacle that we just had.” Leo tried to start walking away and heading to the stables but, he was confident that either Red or Kitsume would drag him back.

 

Red gave him a smirk and a thumbs-up.
"You got it. I gotta give you guys some kind of kickback, since you were kind enough to help me make a little extra gold on the side. That's gotta be worth at least a few rounds."
He gave a small tap on the pouch of gold that was now tucked safely away, looking quite pleased with "an honest day's work."

Red shrugged.
"What was I supposed to do? Chase her down and give her some cheesy line like "Wait! Don't go. Please, I simply must know more about you! Tell me...do you believe in love at first sight...?" Yeah, that'll be the day."
He rubbed his chin in thought.
"Though I guess I have done weirder things in my time. Especially when I've had a few. I wonder if those priestesses are still pissed at me for fondling their statue."

Red gave Leo a not-so-subtly patronizing glance.
"Looks like you've got your hands full, buddy. Have fun with that, I've got a horse to haggle for."
He waved to Leo and Katsume and started making his way to the stables.

A little while later, he was standing before the front door of the stables and gave it a few casual knocks. When the owner opened the door, Red greeted him with a friendly smile.
"Geoffrey, old pal! Remember that incident with the bandits?"
The owner nodded.
"I figured you'd be here to call in the favor at some point. So, what are you buying?"
He invited Red inside and the two got straight to haggling over the price of a horse.

Theodoric thought carefully about Falicita's question before answering.
"Well, to answer your first question, the difference is worlds apart. Our old life is behind us, as distant as a past life; when we speak of home now, we speak of Shiroyama Forest, not Eirgaror. Some still wish to return, yet most of us see the beauty in what we have made for ourselves in this new land. The White Lion clan is both courageous and resilient beyond measure, and I...truth be told, I still feel unworthy to be called the king of such noble people. There are times when I wish my father was still among us, as he would have doubtlessly been a more capable leader in those dark times--"

"That's not fair!"
Alkelda's shout immediately silenced the room, shocking both Theodoric and Ranulf. Though she seemed somewhat embarrassed at her sudden emotional outburst, she continued.
"If I may be so bold, my lord...you have been a great and wise leader to your people from the moment you gained your title. You inspire the people more than you know. Through your strength of will, we found hope and resolve; through your tactical mind, we found confidence and security; through your honest and fair diplomacy, we found peace with our neighbors. Our people have thrived because you were the light they needed in those dark times, and none other. I can say with absolute confidence that if you are not worthy of the crown, then no such ruler exists!"
There was a moment of uncomfortable silence, which was mercifully broken when Theodoric spoke up again.
"Alkelda. Thank you. I will...think carefully on what you have said here today."
It was subtle, but there was the faintest hint of a proud smile on his face. At least there was, until Ranulf spoke up.
"So, uh...not to take anything away from that, I mean, I feel the same way you know, but what about Kaname--no, wait, Falicita's other question?"

Theodoric nodded, his expression turning deadly serious.
"Indeed, that is a matter of the utmost importance. To answer your question, though the thought has crossed my mind, I have no real desire to return to Eirgaror. However...based on the information we have recently received, it would seem that Eirgaror is not quite through with us."
He pulled out a small insignia and laid it on the table. It featured two crossing swords in an "X" shape, a halberd sitting vertically behind them and a red skull featured prominently in front.
"A short while ago, a small scouting party was discovered on the edge of the continent bearing this insignia on their uniforms. I assume you have never seen it before, as very few on this continent have, but we know it all too well. This is the emblem used by the armies of the Alamannia Alliance, the Blood Reavers. If they are here in these lands, you can be assured that they have come with a single purpose: They are preparing to invade, and none will be spared along their path to conquest."

 

Leo didn’t see much use in resisting Kitsume, she was pretty insistent on him cleaning up, though he was more than comfortable just moving forward. “I suppose you’re right. If we get lost we can find a way forward but aimlessly walking around might get tiresome and we need to conserve our energy.” Leo smirked. “Unless you plan on sapping whatever energy I have left” It was a very clear lewd comment, One thing was for certain he still loved getting on her nerves.

Leo followed behind her as he stretched his arms & legs. It was a little late but he realized that the horse he lost never returned to the stables and the Stable master might not be happy with Red and overcharge him for the next horse they grab. “Damn no future drinks, all that money is going to the next steed.” He thought to himself.

“Y’know Kitsume” he said in a more calm and friendly voice. “You didn’t have to cut my brow so bad. not that I’m not used to injury. I just now have a permanent scar on my face past the weathering.” Leo sounded bummed towards the end. “Now no babe is ever gonna want me.”

 

Leo followed behind her, stripping down and throwing his clothes in the basket along with hers, as he stepped in the baths he let out a sigh of relief. It was also followed by a yawn, he sat down next to Kitsume and got his bearings before he would speak.

“There was no way to predict what you did. It was something I’ve never seen before, you were nimble, graceful, and precise. It was clearly a technique of your own creation or a technique from your clan, I know how important a banner is here in the East.” He paused, and let out a second sigh. Though it brought him melancholy, it was no surprise she already knew.

“I fought in many battles, Lead battalions to their death, was a special operative, now I am here on a mission that I deserted. I care little for recovery, if I find the person they want me to capture I will instead kill him.” He paused, letting Kitsume get any comment she might have in. “I wasn’t ever concerned about losing to you, I’ve fought harder battles, in piles of bodies, you were a strong fighter, your father trained you well, but his technique is similar to everything I’ve seen from the east. The only secrets he holds is generational knowledge...” though it seemed like he was switching subjects he wanted to acknowledge her before continuing. “You are in a lot of senses my equal, you just lack the experience that I have, The superiority was to get under your skin. I think of no man or woman as lesser than me. In some ways you remind me of my sister.”

Leo placed his hand on kitsumes shoulder only for a moment, He wanted to have a more direct conversation with her while maintaining eye contact. “I am here to hunt down a man named Jonathan, to you back to my original topic.” His eyes were filled with anger and disgust. Just speaking his name. “He... nearly killed me, if it weren’t for my Sisters quick wit in incapacitating Jonathan when she did, I may not be alive now.” Leo tried to force a smile to her, though he showed her the massive impale wound as a scar before. In complete nudity she saw it in full detail. “Jonathan is a monster in my eyes. He is a warrior for an opposing military. His past is alleged to be that of a rampant murderer, why any king would allow for such a man to be on the battlefield is beyond me. But seeing him rip apart waves of people made me not question his bladework.”

Leo had finished what he had to say. She knew more about him than most people in the village did. It was a sign of trust and friendship to him. “Thank you for the battle, Kitsume.” Though it seemed disingenuous his next words could be perceived as insulting if she took it out of context. “It’s been a long time since someone left a lasting impression on me.” He pointed to his new scar. “As for the princess... Well, I’m not so much interested in the reward, I just need to Keep myself and red motivated.”

Leo took another moment to collect himself before he finally spoke. “If we’re calling it a night after the baths and to the bar, I’ll have to pass. My sword was blunt the entire time we fought.” He let out a chuckle “even if a strike landed it wouldn’t cut. I think tonight I’m going to focus on sharpening my weapon. You could get easy cash by fighting some of the patrons, they’d pay to try and beat a girl, They saw me beat you so they might think they have the ability to do the same.” He smiled before sinking back into the bath. His gaze never really left kitsume. He was fascinated by her.

 

Red nodded his head.
"Yep. They're bangin'."
Then he gave a slight shrug and sighed.
"Man, I wonder how long they're gonna be at it."
Fortunately, despite losing the rental horse, Red was able to work out a decent price for purchasing a horse. It went a little something like this:

"Look, I'm sorry, alright? You know how it goes when we get a little tipsy."
"You call that a little tipsy?"
"...Okay, fair point. You know how it goes when we get shit-faced drunk."
"I'm starting to wonder if you're still drunk right now, asking me for another horse right after you tell me you lost the last one. How do you lose a horse?! They're pretty big!"
"You know, that's another fair point, but I paid that security deposit, didn't I?"
"You did. I still wanted the horse back, though! He was a good horse, and now I have no idea where he went!"
"Just hear me out on this. I get it, that was a colossal screw-up and I really am sorry, but what if I buy a horse this time instead of renting? Then you don't have to worry about getting him back, everybody wins."
"Hmm, I suppose that could work. But why are you suddenly in the market?"
"Well, I don't know how long we're gonna need this one. Something important came up and we might be out for a while. So what do you say we get down to brass tacks?"

Red let out another sigh.
"Damn...who knew horses could be so expensive. Even with a discount, the old money pouch is feeling a lot lighter now."
After waiting around for a little while, his eyes started to drift back to the tavern.
"Geoffrey's holding onto the horse until we leave, and all that negotiating has got me a little hungry."
He chuckled a little.
"The lovebirds will probably be at it for a while. Should be plenty of time to get a quick bite to eat.
With that, he made his way inside the tavern. Looking around for a place to sit, he spotted the mysterious girl from earlier.
"It's that girl...Serako, right? And that guy sitting with her must be her brother."
He made his way over to their table. He put his hand on an empty chair and looked at the two with a smile.
"Would you look at that, fate brought us together again. So, is this seat taken?"

Theodoric nodded in reply to the first question.
"It is as you say."
When Falicita asked her second question, Theodoric folded his arms in thought.
"Both possibilities seem plausible at face value, but there are a few things you must understand about the Blood Reavers and their emperor. First of all, I believe it is possible, yet highly unlikely that they know of the White Lion clan in the first place. Their isolationist nature prohibits trade with other nations, they have never been seen on this continent until now, and even if they captured one of our ships at sea, they would not recognize our insignia. But even if they did know, I firmly believe that the former is more likely. Emperor Damascius craves bloodshed and conquest, and I have no doubt that his subjugation of Eirgaror would only fuel his megalomania rather than sate it. Whether he knows of us or not, make no mistake, he will unleash the fires of war upon this land and all of its people until all is under his absolute rule. That is why we must prepare now. Our clans alone will not be enough, we need to create a united front against this threat, from the smallest lords to the Emperor himself. I have already sent messengers to our neighboring clans and to the Emperor, but I wanted to come here and tell Kaname in person. Since he is not here, I must ask you...will the Nagasaki clan join our cause and stand against the forces of Eirgaror?"

 

“I’ll probably go to a smith eventually, I just need to get it sharp enough now to be able to fight with it on the road, and I don’t have the coin here to sharpen my weapons. Smiths are expensive in this clan.” Leo sighed, it was more work than he was wanted to take on. He continued. “Red is going to think we’re lovebirds anyway, ideas or not. I’ve known the man long enough to know that if you go down there with me or without me he will suggest you either tuckered me out or we took forever and he was waiting for us.”

Leo waited for Kitsume to leave to finish cleaning himself off, once done he grabbed a towel and headed back to his room waiting for his clothes to be cleaned.

 

Wulfred put his hands up and gave a nod.
"Not a fan, got it. Don't worry, I'm not gonna try to pull anything, I just wanted to say thanks for earlier and make a little small talk."
Despite his best efforts, he could practically feel Shiro's eyes burrowing into his skull.
"This conversation is gonna go nowhere quick if I don't at least try to get this guy on my side."
Just as he was thinking this, the barmaid came over to ask for his order and Red saw his opportunity.
"I'll just have some tea, but more importantly..."
He motioned to Serako and Shiro with a smile.
"Put their order on my tab."

When the barmaid walked away, Red turned his attention back to the siblings.
"Right, I never did introduce myself, did I? I'm Wulfred of Dalfirth, but I usually just go by Red. To answer your question, Serako...well, kind of. As much as anyone from the White Lion is "from around here," you know?
Then a thought occurred to him.
"Oh, right, maybe you don't know. Here, take a look at this sword."
He pulled his sword ever so slightly out of its sheath, just enough to see the blade.
"See that? It's no katana, that's for sure. This here is a double-edged blade--we just call them longswords--and you don't see too many of 'em outside of Shiroyama."
He then put the longsword away.
"That's because we brought them with us. Most of us weren't born here, we came here from another land about ten years ago. That's...a pretty complicated story, and not a very happy one, unfortunately. But hey, we're doing pretty well for ourselves now."

He raised a finger to cut off questions preemptively.
"Now, you might be thinking, "but not all of you are using those swords, what's with that?" Well, when we moved here, some of us decided that we liked the style of weapons we saw here. Now, King Theodoric isn't really a stickler for tradition, he's a pretty practical-minded kind of guy. That's why he actually encouraged us to study the weapons here, learn from local swordsmen, and combine our fighting styles and tactics with anything we could learn from nearby clans. That's how I ended up with this."
He pulled out his Kiseru battle pipe.
"I wouldn't exactly take it to a battlefield, but it's a decent backup weapon if you're caught off-guard while you're trying to have a nice, peaceful smoke."
Putting away the pipe, he continued.
"Some of the White Lions really got into these new weapons. I joined the main army for a while, and I remember this guy named Ranulf from basic training. He used a katana, which was still pretty rare at the time. Apparently, he...didn't exactly have a good relationship with his old man, so he ended up learning his sword techniques from an old hermit who lived nearby. He stuck with the katana because that's what he was taught with."
He rubbed his chin in thought.
"The guy always seemed like he had something to prove...wonder if he ever got over that."

Theodoric gave a respectful bow as a sign of appreciation; Alkelda and Ranulf soon followed suit.
"Thank you, Falicita. I know that you love your people dearly, and as a fellow clan leader, I understand all too well that this must have been a very difficult decision for you to make. However, I truly believe that we will only survive the days to come by standing united, and it is my hope that the other leaders will see the wisdom in joining together as one. I hope they can display the courage that you have shown here."
He gave a proud smile.
"I believe your brother will be pleased as well, when we finally find him and bring him home safely."
With a small sigh and his eyes closed, Theo whispered under his breath.
"We will manage in your absence, old friend. Even so, return to us quickly. You've kept us waiting far too long already."
He opened his eyes again, getting back to business.
"For the time being, it is enough to know that we have your support, so I will ask only this of you: Prepare. Prepare your soldiers for combat; prepare your walls for a siege; prepare your weapons for warfare. Once we know more about where the enemy is and when they will invade, then we can discuss strategy. In the meantime, I will continue to secure as many alliances as possible and prepare my own defenses while we search for Kaname."

"There's just one thing I don't get."
All eyes turned to Ranulf as he suddenly chimed in.
"That girl who was being escorted out when we got here...who was she, really?"
Alkelda shook her head.
"I thought we settled this matter. Can't you just drop it?"
"Aw, come on! There's gotta be more to that story than what we saw, right? Aren't you even a little curious?"
"Not particularly."
"Oh...well, that doesn't mean you've gotta ruin my fun."
"If Lady Falicita doesn't want to talk about it, that's it, discussion over."
"Well, how can we know if we don't even ask?"
He turned to Falicita.
"So, what's the deal with that crazy-eyes girl?"
Alkelda rubbed the bridge of her nose, letting out an annoyed groan.
"Lady Falicita, please don't feel obligated to indulge his misguided curiosity."
Theodoric nodded in agreement, looking slightly annoyed as well.
"As she says, there is no need for you to answer if it is a personal matter.

 

Leo’s clothes were brought to him, along with his weapons with the clothes, he quickly got dressed and reached into his pocket, but to no avail, no whetstone. He will just have red buy him one and sharpen if he can have him sharpen it for him. In preparation for a safer voyage, Leo got on his knees and prayed. “I only ask for guidance on this voyage” he spoke to himself. The open air surrounding him. Upon finishing he got up and walked out of the room.

He turned his attention to Kaname’s room and started walking towards it. To his surprise he saw Kitsume in there talking to him, Leo was ready to go but it was clear they weren’t. “Sorry for intruding, I wanted to check over our new friend to see if there was any signs of a fight. Something ain’t sitting right with me. Since you’re already here and closer to him, you should do it Kitsume. I insist.”

Leo turned around and quickly went down to the Tavern, where he saw Red and 2 other people sitting together. Instead of Leo taking that as a point of leaving he sat down next to Red hearing none of what was previously discussed he instead waited for red to finish whatever he was saying and butted in.

“I see you’ve met Red, A warrior, poet, and true romantic he is. But he also chats more than he should and given his demeanor” he pointed to Shiro “I’d say he has had about enough of it.” Leo didn’t know much about anything going on, but he decided to take the risk of asking the 2 strangers himself.

“You guys are travelers, if you’re in the white lions village that just shows it. So I’ll cut to the chase, A man who looked pretty burned showed up last night, He was talking about a princess, that Red and I here plan on totally saving. And I gotta ask, do you know anything about it? Or perhaps were you the culprits?” Leo wasn’t trying to be sly he was trying to get answers, it throwing them into question would help get any answers he would accuse them of a lot more.

Leo sat and listened, watching their faces with each word, he wanted to make sure they weren’t going to lie to him.