"Stop that wriggling, you're only making this harder on yourself."
Hanako snarled into her gag, twisting back and forth in the bottom of the rowboat as she tried to tear through the bindings on her wrists and ankles. She glowered up at her captor, a squirelly sort of man with shifting, beady eyes. What she wouldn't give to be able to use her fire!
The leather collar clamped around her neck- unobtrusive enough in appearance- seemed to be blocking her abilities. She couldn't even change forms, which was usually as simple to her as breathing.
It had been three hours of this, since the warlock had slipped something into her drink and she'd woken up collared and bound. She thrashed again, knocking into the side of the small boat.
"I said stop that!" A foot lashed out and caught her in the ribs. Her sharp cry of pain was muffled into the gag and she glared daggers up at the man, how seemed to be having a good deal of trouble actually getting the boat into the gentle surf. She's only caught a glimpse of the ship anchored off shore before he tossed her in the bottom of the boat like so much cargo, but with the way this was going it would take him all night to actually get her there.
She wriggled again, rocking the rowboat against his shins. He cursed and reached down to slap her, sending her head slamming against the wood. She saw stars.
Slavers. Slowly, Ronin wrapped the bandages around his wrist. The katana leaning against his shoulder. Slavers a contract ordered dead. To be ridded of the world. Slowly, the blind warrior tightened the bandages around his wrists, the boat gently swaying with the sea. With a sigh, he finally finished wrapping it around his fists, slowly standing up, padding off his coat.
He had snuck aboard the ship and was going to eliminate any slaver in the vicinity. Free their prisoners and return to the contracter. Slowly, he felt the anchor being pulled up and the sails set. The ship slowly in movement as the last slaver, a magician, with a Kitsune boarded.
With a slow sigh, Ronin stood up, the unsheathed katana resting on his shoulder, with slow treads, he walked up the stairs and stepped onto the deck. Lowering the tip of the blade against the floor, before holding it up. A silent threat.
Hanako's captor dropped her to the deck and she gave a grunt as her bruises protested. "What the hell-?!"
Twisting, she managed to get a glimpse of what had so shocked him. Her eyes widened. A warrior, she could see that easily, but a strange one. How could he see through that blindfold? Was he with the slavers?
Judging by the spell the warlock began muttering, she doubted it. Not a slaver then. Did that mean she was saved?
The hope was shaky and weak, withering in her chest when her captor shot a jolt of arcane power in the stranger's direction. She shouted against her gag, writhing in yet another desperate effort to free herself.
The blind half-orc tilted his head as the bolt flew past. He raised his blade and with a swift step, slashed it down with both hands at Hanako's captor. Hitting him in and through the shoulder. Just like that. As the arcanist collapsed to the ground, bleeding from a mortal cut, he stood into pose again. Facing the sea. Blind as a bat.
Yet. A band of slavers surfaced at the commotion. Ronin immediately turned around to the group of five's footsteps. Sword raised. The five charged at him with a loud cry, going for relentless attacks against their blind foe.
And Ronin made short work of them. Not even making an effort as to save their lives. Immediatly going for the kill with tremendous force. Awaiting the next foes.
Hanako couldn't do much more than watch, wide-eyed, as he defeated foe after foe. Strange warrior maybe, but a more than capable one.
She rolled away from her fallen captor, trying to get out of the way of most of the fighting while simultaneously looking for something sharp she could use to cut her bindings. If she could get out of here while everyone was distracted...
No more footsteps? Wait. No. Three pair more. A group of three slavers charged at him, armed with maces. Again. These were no match for the half-orc's superior swordsmanship.
As Hanako rolled to the side, the green giant turned to her, swacking the blood off of the blade and sheathing it at his hip once more. He ducked infront of the magical fox. "Are you alright?" Was what he inquired. Unable to see her physical state.
Breathing heavily, she looked up at him. She'd figured out by now that he was blind, or at least nearly. Struggling against her bonds, she muttered "Mmph mm nnhph!" which was about all she could get out through the gag.
"Let me help you.." Was what he muttered slowly, putting his hands on her head and softly tracing down her facial features, findly finding the gag. He pushed forward his sheathet blade and clicked it out slightly, cutting through the gag and pulling it out of her mouth. "Better?"
Hanako flinched at the touch, used to being hit by now, then drew in a sharp gasp when the gag fell away. "Thank...thank you," she panted out. "My wrists and ankles...I'm tied up, I can't-"
She wriggled a bit and gave a pathetic whine, twisting in an effort to bring his hands in contact with the ropes on her wrists, silently pleading to be let go.
Ronin nodded slowly. "I apologise for any innapproperiate touches I might make. I cannot see." He said with a bitter chuckle, putting his hands on her shoulders and slowly tracing down to her wrists, once more inching the blade out slowly and cutting the restraints. He held out a knife to her. "I am certain you know how to cut he ropes on your ankles." As soon as the knife was taken from him, he stood up. "Where are the other slaves?"
She cut the ropes around her ankles easily, standing with a few winces and rubbing her wrists. "I'm not sure," she replied quietly, eyes scanning the carnage on the deck. "I was just brought here. Maybe they're kept below?"
She looked at him sidelong, calculating. "What are you doing here anyway? How'd you get here, if you're not a slaver?"
"I see. Can you lead me to the nearest door?" He inquired, looking in the general direction of the kitsune, hand resting on the hilt of his katana.
"I snuck aboard at night. Someone paid to see these slavers out of commision. I was told to free a small girl at the same time. Her name is Cassandra." He said as he still waited for Naovi's guidance.
Hanako nodded slowly. She couldn't see any reason why he'd be lying- if he wanted to do her harm, he could have just left her to the slavers.
"Here." She took his hand gently, pulling him toward the first door she saw that looked like it may lead below decks. She sniffed the air cautiously as she moved, then growled in frustration. The collar still seemed to be dulling her senses.
But she supposed she could deal with that when the slaves were free.
"Locked." Was what he said as his hand was pressed gainst the door. He stepped back. With a spinning kick, he rammed the door from it's hinges, hand still resting on the hilt. They were met by soft and surprised gasps.
Ronin slowly descended the stairs. His eyes perked.
She blinked at his destruction of the door, rather impressed, then followed him down. A row of tied prisoners was the first thing she saw and her lips curled back in an instinctive snarl.
"Yeah, we're in the right place," she muttered. Even with her dulled senses, the stink of fear and misery washed over her. Her hackles raised and she shuddered.
"Help me free them." He stated, clicking the blade from it's sheath and pulling it out, slowly walking over towards the nearest prisoner, feeling around for his binds and slicing the ropes, breaking the wooden casks around their feet with his bare hands. "Free the others." Was what he said to the young man, who nodded frantically and went to work.
Hanako nodded- then remembered he couldn't see her and said, "Yessir"- and leaped to work. It would have been easier if she could have brought her claws out, but she made do with untying the bonds rather than slashing through them.
There were just over two dozen would-be slaves, all told, and she worked as fast as she could. "Cassandra?" she asked as she worked, remembering what her strange savior had said. "Does anyone know if a little girl is here?"
And old man, his hands shaking as Ronin freed him, grabbed his face. "M-many thanks, kind ser!" Overjoyed at his freedom. The blind warrior gave a small smile in return and pulled the man up, the rest of the more fit slaves freeing the others.
"My.. Little Cassandra.." Was what the man muttered at the mention of her name. And little girl. Ronin looked in direction of the old man, still supporting him and walking with him up the stairs. "She's been.. Taken to the captain's quarters.."
Ronin slowly nodded. And as they surfaced from the stairs, the group of freed slaves, Hanako and Ronin were surrounded by a band of slavers. And their captain, in the middle of the group.
His voice was harsh and bitter. A thick accent as a dog of the sea. But, it was understandable. The man had challenged Ronin to a duel.
"Woman," a lack of a name made this the first term he went to to get Hanako's attention. "Hold the old man." He said as he released his grip on the elder, before stepping forward into the group.
She caught the man on reflex, looping his arm around her shoulders. "All of you, get behind me," she barked to the freed slaves, trying to maneuver herself in front of them protectively. She passed the elder off to a young woman who seemed reasonably steady and sank into a fighting crouch, snarling at the slavers.
"Four with bows," she hissed, hoping the blind warrior could hear her and would take the warning. Gods, what she wouldn't give for her fire right now!
Ronin held a hand out to Nahako. Stopping her in her tracks. "The challenge was posed to me. Not to you." Ronin took a deep breath. "Remember what I said? All of them." At that, he charged forward, blade still sheathed. His hand on the base of the sheath, other hand clenched around the hilt. Deflecting the first blow by drawing the sword when the captain answered his charge with an overhead strike.
Immediatly following up after the parry, Ronin ducked and slid around the captain, before slamming the hilt of his nlade against his foe's tailbone, arm going upwards and fingers closing around his throat from behind. He pulled the man's neck down, arching his back, immediatly stabbing the katana through his back and letting him drop on it.
Hanako's eyes widened, but she didn't really have time to react. She settled for slinking back to guard the others they'd freed, baring her teeth at the slavers.
Who seemed to be stuck in a state of shock at the death of their captain. But she didn't expect that to last long.
The state of shock indeed didn't last long. Ronin sheathed his sword and pressed both his hands together. Raising the index and middlefinger of his left hand, his right hand clenched shut. And with a dry huff. A spectral form of him appeared. Along with three blades of some sort of blue energy hivering behind his back.
With a loud shout, the slavers charged at him. Arrows shot at the blind warrior. But none found contact as Ronin and his shadow went to destroying every slaver that came at them. Not even recieving a scratch.
Well. He seemed to have things in hand. Slowly, Hanako began to let herself relax, easing out of her crouch and watching the battle intently, trying to see if there was a moment she could jump in and help.
There didn't seem to be. With how fast the blind warrior fought, she'd be just as likely to hit him as she would an enemy. Or he'd mistake her for an enemy, and after seeing him fight she had a strong feeling that was not something she wanted to happen.
"You said the girl was in the captain's quarters?" she asked abruptly, addressing the ex-slaves over her shoulder. One of them nodded. "Where?"
He pointed and she nodded in return, starting to edge her way around the dying battle to get to the door he'd indicated.
As the last foe fell before him, his ears twitched. Running. Perhaps someone to take Cassandra hostage and survive. He turned around towars Hanako's footsteps. One of the blue swords slamming down on the door infront of her. "What do you think you're doing, slaver?" The blade wrenched itself from the wood, floating infront.of Hanako.
The kitsune squeaked, eyes going wide. "I-it's me!" she stammered, backing away from the blade. "I mean- oh, my name's Hanako, by the way- it's just me. There aren't any slavers left."
She was babbling a bit, but damn if that attack hadn't surprised her!
Ronin let out a slow sigh as the blade dissipated, forming behind him once more. Yet the shadow dissappeared. And soon the blades followed suit. "Sorry Hanako. My name is Ronin." He said, before walking over to where he heard her voice. "Cassandra?" Was what he asked the Kitsune. Whether she had found the young girl or not.
"In here," she said, nodding at the door before realizing he wouldn't see that. "Oh, um...here." A little warily, she darted forward to take his hand and guide it to the doorknob, adding a belated, "Pleasure to meet you."
Ronin nodded slowly, pushing open the door, hand on his hilt. He walked in. "Cassandra?" He asked softly.
Sniffing the air, Hanako followed after him cautiously. Her eyes swept over the captain's quarters, then fixed on the desk pushed against a side wall. Was that a flash of hair?
"Cassandra?" She came up beside Ronin, kneeling down to peer under the desk. Wide, childish eyes stared back at her. She smiled, keeping her lips closed to hide her sharp canines. "We're not gonna hurt you," she murmured. "Ronin here was sent to find you." She glanced up at the warrior. "Uh- who sent you anyway?"
Maybe a familiar name would coax the girl out.
The girl charged forward at Ronin. He heard her footsteps and kneeled down, the small girl throwing herself in his arms. She seemed to be in a poor state, her clothes shredded. "I got paid for this. But I would've done it anyway. They took Cassandra.." He murmured, hugging the small girl closely. She looked up at Hanako. "She's an orphan.. A street urchin. She tried stealing my sword." He said with a chuckle as he picked up the girl, walking back to the deck. "Are you alright, Cassie?" He murmured to the girl, who nodded vigourously.
"Oh..." A smile smile spread across the kitsune's face and she waved at the girl. "Why try to steal a sword you can't even lift?" she asked teasingly, tilting her head at the child.
She fell into step beside the warrior, flashing a quick smile at the people huddled at the other end of the deck. "We've gotta get these people to shore," she murmured, looking around for lifeboats.
The girl looked at Hanako. "Monies for mama!" Was what she said, causing Ronin to slowly chuckle. "We do.. There must be small lifeboats around.." Was what he muttered.
"Over here." Hanako had spotted the boat she'd been hauled over on, along with two others lashed down to the deck. She waved to the would-be slaves. "C'mon, help me with these. Let's get you people home."
Slowly, they came forward. Hanako began counting as she untied one of the boats, frowning a bit and tilting her head. "We're going to have to make two trips," she murmured to Ronin, giving the child he still held another smile. She was a cute little thing. "They won't all fit."
"I'll stay on the boat constantly. If there's anyone waiting on the coast, I'll handle them." He said with a slow nod, walking over to the sound of the lifeboat. "You stay here, I'll be right back." Was what he said as he put Cassandra down. Rather leaving her for the time being.
If the coast was filled with more slavers, he'd have his hands full.
"I'll take a boat too," she said decisively.
It took some doing, but Hanako and the others managed to get the first load of boats into the water. The kitsune decided she better guide them to shore, seeing as how she had just traversed this surf herself and- well, she could actually see.
"Are there multiple boats, then?" Ronin asked. For all he knew, there were multiple and they could make it to shore in one go. Wich would save a lot of trouble.
"Just three," Hanako answered, judging the distance down to the water. Should she jump? "I can go with this first group and guide them to shore, then bring the boats back for the rest of you." She gave him a curious look. "You think you can...well, navigate back to shore?"
"Others can. I'm just muscle. And someone needs to guard the beach." Ronin said, taking a deep breath. "Me acting as the first to set foot on the beach is safest."
Hanako shrugged. "Whatever you say." Reaching out, she touched his arm lightly. "I'm going to guide you into a lifeboat, alright?" She didn't want to startle him and have him attack her like before.
Ronin nodded slowly, grabbing her hand. "Alright."
Carefully, Hana guided him over the side of the ship and into the last lifeboat being lowered into the water. Then she jumped into one herself, landing lightly enough that she barely set the thing rocking.
Giving the people still on deck a reassuring wave, she nodded to those in the boats. It was dark, just barely enough light to make out the other shadows in the water, but it was enough. "Let's get you people home," she murmured, taking an oar and setting to work.
Ronin did the same, sitting down with the guidance of some slave and taking an oar, seemingly effortless rowing in rythm with the others. Loads of training and an orcish heritage made him possess great strength.
Soon, the lifeboats entered the coast, with the slow grinding of sand. Immediatly, Ronin jumped out and landed on the beach, katana brandished. Ready for any opposition to show itself.
Hana climbed out of her own boat and helped people disembark, counting as she did. "There are ten people left on the ship," she said softly, urging the ex-slaves to stick close to one another. "We'll only need to take two of these back."
"Alright. Can you handle those two while I guard the beach?" The half orc inquired, looking over his shoulder, in direction to Hanako's voice.
She nodded. "Got it." Waving one of the humans over, she nodded for him to take one of the lifeboats while she took the other. "Be right back," she said cheerfully, pushing into the surf.
She was getting used to this rowing thing, and they reached the ship fairly quickly. She let the ex-slave fill his boat first before gesturing for the remaining people to jump into hers and begin heading back to shore. She ended up with Cassandra in her boat, assuring her that Ronin was waiting for them back on the beach when she was asked. She cast a glance back at the hull of the ship as they rowed away, glaring.
What she wouldn't give for one good fireball.
Ronin stood frozen in place. They seemed to be alone for now. No reinforcements on the coast. It didn't surprise him. Yet, his training had him belief the worst possible outcome. And that was a lot of reinforcements.
So, there were none. Nothing. And the half orc stood there, as a blind sentinel. Waiting for Hanako's return to shore.
Coming ashore the second time, Hanako practically bounced out of her boat, Cassandra balanced on her hip. Her rather carefree nature was beginning to shine through now that it seemed the danger was behind them.
She slipped up beside Ronin, announcing he presence with a quiet, "Just me," before she tapped his shoulder. "See, sweetheart, told you it'd be fine," she said to Cassandra, ruffling her hair and smiling.
"That ended better than anticipated." Ronin said as he slowly sheathed the sword again. "These freed slaves will find their way again. I'm going to bring Cassie back." He said with a soft smile down at the girl, who was giggling at the roughling. "Do you wish to accompany me?"
Hana smiled at the little girl. "Yeah, I think I do, if you don't mind," she said. The little human pup was pretty sweet, she'd like to see her home if she could.
Hefting the child higher on her hip, she frowned a bit and reached up to scratch under the collar still around her neck. "Lead the way, then," she muttered to Ronin, tugging experimentally and growling a bit when the leather refused to come loose.
Ronin chuckled slowly. "Lead the way? You'll have to ask Cassie that." He grinned, the small child giggling once more. "There!" She blurted out, pointing her finger to the west, a small path visible.
"Right then." Hana nodded and set off, letting the child down to walk when she started wriggling. she knew she should be on guard, but she was distracted by the damned collar, working her fingers over, around, and under it in a futile attempt to find any weakness.
Nothing. She gave another soft growl. Of course this just had to be one of those spells that didn't die with the caster.
Ronin followed Cassandra's footsteps closely. Using them as a guidepost. He arched an eyebrow as he heard the soft growl. "Something bothering you?"
"That bastard collared me," Hana replied in a low grumble, not wanting the child to overhear. "I can't...seem to get...the damn thing...off." Each phrase was punctuated by a sharp tug.
"Cassie, wait up a second," Ronin said as he turned to Hanako. "Here, allow me." He said as he formed an odd sigh with his hands, before pressing his hand against her throat.
Yet, the seal was far more powerful than Ronin had imagined. A blue force sucked his hand against the collar, the veins in his arms turning blue and radiating in a pulsing light. The half orc tried to pull back with all his might and eventually succeeded, ripping the collar of with a pained cry. Smoke raising from his arm.
"What the-?!" Hanako gave a cry of surprise and pain, clutching at her throat as she staggered back, panting.
"What- what was that?!" she demanded, wincing and staring at him with wide eyes. The collar was gone- she could see it in his hand- but for some reason she still felt it's weight around her neck.
Then she smoke and the light fully registered and she sort of lurched toward him. "A-are you hurt?" she asked, still rubbing absently at her throat, reaching out to touch his arm cautiously.
Ronin gripped the arm with a pained his. "I'm fine.. I'm surprised that.. Necklace didn't kill you.. The amount of power.." He panted breathlessly, his arm feeling like it was on fire. Pretty accurate, his blood was boiling due to the arcane influence.
Worried, Hanako wrapped her fingers around his wrist, trying to examine his arm.
And drew back with a sharp hiss, eyes going wide. A much smaller jolt of that same feeling at run through her at the contact. "What...?"
She looked at her hand, then at his arm. Shaking it off, she tilted her head and said, "You're too warm. Should we...fix that?" Not that she really knew how, but...
"Just have to work it down.. It's comparable to poison.." Ronin said with irregular gasps. This really hurt like hell. But. At least whatever Hanako was, she was now truly free. Or so he thought. Little did he know he now acted as the collar around her neck.
Brow furrowed worriedly, she nodded slowly. "If you're sure," she muttered, wishing she could do something to help. A small smile crept across her face after a moment and she added a heartfelt "Thank you," relieved to be free of the collar.
Cassandra had stopped up ahead and was coming back to them, obviously anxious to be home. Hanako reached up to touch his shoulder- once again there was that little jolt, but even less powerful than the last time now. "Think you can keep walking?"
"Even when both my legs are broken." Ronin said with a morbid grin, scooping up Cassandra and placing her on his shoulder. "Where do I go, Cassie?" Ronin asked, the child giggling. "Fowward!"
Shaking her head but smiling softly, Hana followed them. Absently, she flexed her fingers and looked down at her hand. She rather wanted to summon a quick burst of flame, or even shift to her hybrid form- something to prove to herself that she was really free.
But she didn't want to startle the child, so she figured that could wait until the girl was home. "You know how much further, Cassie?" she asked, falling into step beside Ronin and looking up at the girl.
The child looked at Hanako, arching her eyebrows. "Day!" She finally blurted out with another giggle. Ronin only chuckled. "We'll be there by noon."
Hana tossed a look at the just rising sun and shrugged. Oh well, it wasn't like she had anywhere she needed to be. "Alright then."
She couldn't wait until noon to use her powers, it would drive her mad. Glancing at the girl, she gave her a reassuring smile and said, "I'm going to do something a little strange, but you don't need to be scared, okay?"
She stepped a little away from them, giving herself room, and inhaled deeply, letting a shift wash through her.
Something happened, some unidentifiable snap of power that seemed to start in her head and ricochet down to her feet then back up again. She gave a sharp cry, knees giving out as a wave of pain pulsed through her body. Her hand scrabbled to her throat where it felt as though the imprint of that leather collar was burning against her skin, though she knew nothing was there.
Ronin stopped in his tracks, frowning. Was she going to use her magic? The green-skinned warrior turned around, he wanted to.. Witness this. Seeing was out of the question. Cassandra nodded slowly, looking at her with big and curious eyes. Ronin slowly put the girl down as he felt something pinching in his arm.
And, right as the snap of power pulled through Hanako's body, Ronin's arm lit up once more. His veins turning to a throbbing and a radiant blue again. Yet he didn't feel any pain.
He rushed over to Hanako, catching her before she fell. His eyebrows arched.
It took a moment for anything other than shock to registered. When it did, she realized the reason she hadn't felt the jolt of contact with the ground was because Ronin had caught her. Blinking, she focused fuzzily on his face, then let her eyes wander to find Cassandra.
"What..." Hanako groaned, trying to sit up a bit and one hand still brushing absently at her throat. "What just happened?" she muttered blearily. She'd never felt anything like that before.
"I.. Don't know." Ronin said, standing up slowly and pulling her up. "I felt.. Something. I can't really describe it.. An arcane force."
Letting him pull her to her feet, Hana frowned. "I couldn't...use my powers," she said slowly. "I don't understand. The collar is gone, but I still feel like-" She wasn't wure what she felt, exactly.
Shaking her head, she decided it was something she could worry about when they got Cassandra home. Giving the girl a quick smile, she ran a hand through her hair and tried to put it from her mind. Probably just some sort of aftershock, I'll deal with it later.
She smiled at the girl and offered her hand. "C'mon, little one, let's get you home."
Ronin's jaw dropped slightly as she explaindd to him that she couldn't use her powers. That she still felt as if the collar was present. "It can't be.." He raised his right arm. "I think.. I accidentally became the catalyst instead of the collar."
Hana froze, blinking at him dumbly. "Wait...what?"
That...did not sound good. In fact, that sounded very bad. "A-are you sure?" she asked, a little panicky. "I mean- how could you tell? What does that even mean?"
"I don't.. Understand it either." Ronin said, clenching his fist. "From what I heard.. And felt. You tried casting magic and failed. I had the same sensation.. I can't describe it. Like something was cramping up in my arm."
She growled in frustration. Yeah, definitely not good. "Oh, fu-" Her eyes snapped to the child and she swallowed the curse with difficulty. "Fun. Oh fun."
Running her hands through her hair, she let out a sharp breath and looked at Ronin calculatingly. "Do you think you can fix it?" she asked bluntly.
Ronin smirked as she cut herself off. Pretty clear what she was going to say. Yet, Cassandra blinked in confusion. "How dat fun?!" She loudly inquired.
Ronin glanced down at Cassandra and back to Hanako. "I.. Have no idea.. When we're in town, I'll get some supplies.. And try to."
Sighing, Hanako nodded, then remembered he couldn't see it. "Okay," she muttered. Then another sigh. "Okay..." Was she ever going to be free of this damned spell?
She forced a smile for the little girl. "C'mon, Cassie, lead the way." The sooner they could get her home, the sooner they could fix this mess.
"Up we go." At that, Ronin grabbed the small girl and placed her on his shoulder again, starting to follow the direction the small girl indicated.
Hanako followed after them, a little more sedately than before. Questions were turning over in her mind: what if Ronin couldn't fix this? What if her powers were locked away forever?
She shuddered at the thought, pushing it away as she increased her pace to fall into step beside the taller warrior.
After a short while, the three would enter a small village, just before noon. Some villagers stopped whatever they were doing and watched the two newcomers, before Cassandra, sat on Ronin's broad shoulder, waved enthusiastically to the villagers.
These smiled and waved in return, before heading back to their duties.
"We're here," Hanako told Ronin, then looked up to smile at Cassandra. "Where do you live, sweetling?"
It was a fairly small village, but she didn't think they should just go knocking door to door looking for the girl's home.
"Inn!" Cassandra beamed in response, pointing at one of the bigger buildings. Ronin only chuckled as he started to walk again, following Cassandra's loud advices.
Hana followed after them, brow furrowed in thought. "Ronin," she said quietly as they walked. "What if, um...what happens if- if you can't fix...whatever's happened?"
"Then I would have stained my own honor and have no choice but to commit Seppuku." He answered dryly. Clear as day. No arguments to be had. "And, most likely, that would solve your issue aswell."
Her eyes went very round. "Um, no need to go that far," she told him hurriedly, her own problems forgotten for a moment. Gods, he was a serious one wasn't he?
She knocked on the door to the inn, adding brightly, "Look, I'm sure there's a solution, right? No spell is unbreakable." She hoped.
Ronin chuckled. "It's my way. If I damaged someone innocent. So be it. I will pay for it." And he spun it off like it was normal. "There most likely is. Don't fret."
Before Hanako could protest some more, the inn door swung open. "Oh, hello," she said brightly to the rather haggard but pleasant looking woman in the doorway. "We seem to have found something that claims it belongs here." She nodded to the girl seated on Ronin's shoulders with a smile.
The woman's eye grew bigger. It was clear that she had been crying a lot. "My little Cassie!" She said as she teared up again, met by a squeel from the small girl. "Mommy!" And she practically jumped into her mother's arms. "R-Roland! They got our Cassie back!" The woman shouted inside, sobbing heavily.
Ronin smiled slowly, putting a hand on Hanako's shoulder. "Let's give them time for now. We'll check back in half an hour to get a room and try to get this spell undone."
Hana nodded, smiling at the reunion. Feeling much lighter, she spun and practically skipped down off the stoop. "Where to then?" she asked Ronin, bouncing on the balls of her feet and reaching op to brush her fingers against his arm so he knew where she was.
"Nearest general store where they have ink, paper or papyrus and a quill." He answered in response, following the gentle brushing on his arm with a soft nod and a gentle smile.
"Mm..." She bit her lip, looking around. "Oh, this looks promising." Not wanting to overstep her bounds but thinking she should give him some direction, she let her fingers brush against he back of his hand as she set off, so soft it could have been an accidental touch.
He felt the touch. Didn't mind it. Though, he didn't really follow the touch of direction. It said nothing. But rather listened to her footsteps and followed them. If she'd keep talking, it would be way easier. But, he wasn't going to annoy her with that.
Hanako was not quiet person by nature. "What do you need a quill and ink and stuff for?" she asked, unable to keep silent, looking at Ronin as they approached the small building that appeared to her to be some sort of store.
Normally she would have assumed such things were for writing a letter or something, but...well, he was blind.
"To create wards. Charms and seals and such." He said with a chuckle. "You don't know an awful lot about warding techniques, do you?"
She shrugged, frowning slightly. "I've never needed to," she responded primly, stopping in front of the door and raising her hand to push it open. Glancing at Ronin, she muttered, "Oh, here- um, I'm gonna touch you, just a warning."
She reached out and took his arm, guiding him a bit was he was standing directly in front of the door and wouldn't whack into the door frame or something when he tried to go in. Maybe it was unnecessary, but better safe than sorry, she figured.
"Fair enough." The half orc said, before nodding slowly at Hanako. "Thank you." He walked in with her guidance, met by a verbal greeting of the shopkeeper. Ronin stepped towards the counter, placing his hands ontop of it, starting to order the products he mentioned.
The shopkeeper bustled off to collect Ronin's order and Hanako looked around the place. It was cozy, she supposed, a small town shop with just the tings a small town would need.
"It's nice here," she said to the warrior without thinking. "There's a big window, and some little shelves tucked into a back corner with some toys and games and things- maybe Cassie would like something? And-"
She stopped, flushing. Would he think she was patronizing him? "Oh, um...sorry, I'm chattering. I just thought..." She wasn't sure what she'd thought, actually. Her blush deepened and she cleared her throat.
Ronin nodded slowly. "Mayhaps. But that doesn't concern us now." He said with a slow chuckle. "Let's focus on getting this seal off first."
Relieved he wasn't offended, Hanao nodded determinedly. "Yes. Right." She glanced around the small shop. "Should we, um...get some space?" If that reaction from earlier was any indication, it seemed like a good idea for them to not be around people when they tried this again.
"We'll return from the inn and ask a chamber there. Or at least tell them where we're headed for this. Then if something goes wrong, help will arrive sooner." He nodded at the shopkeep as he placed a leather purse on the counter. "That qhould suffice." He said, before gathering the things and walking out.
"Alright." She said, shrugging. Seemed like a solid enough plan to her. With a quick smile for the shopkeeper, she followed after him, letting her shoulder bump him lightly to nudge him in the right direction when he drifted slightly.
"I'm glad we could get her home," she noted casually, smiling as she thought of Cassie. With a slightly bitter laugh, she added, "Even if I did end up with a human collar."
"Half orc." Ronin corrected her with a short snicker. "And. I am truly sorry for the collar. I will set this straight."
Hana patted his arm reassuringly. "Wasn't your fault, you were just trying to help." She tilted her head a bit. "Half orc? I guess that explains the whole green thing..."
Realizing that probably wasn't polite, she blushed and cleared her throat, picking up her pace a bit as they neared the inn.
"And yet I only made it worse." Was what the half org said. "None but I am to blame."
Ronin only huffed dryly in response. He was used to that answer.
So serious. "Well, if you can fix it we're square," Hanako said brightly. They'd reached the inn now and she knocked once, sharply.
"I hope I can." He nodded curtly. The door was opened by Cassandra's mother, who smiled brightly at the two. "Gan I help you two with anything? And do come in," She said with the same, unwavering smile.
Hanako nodded and smiled in thanks as she slipped inside. "We came to check on the girl," she said quietly. "But we'd like a room, too, if you've any available."
Her eyes flicked to her companion, waiting for him to speak before she offered more information.
Ronin ducked slightly to evade the rather low door, it obviously wasn't build for him. The woman smiled. "Roald. Prepare a room for Cassandra's saviours." She said with a gentle voice, before looking back at the pair. "She is currently sleeping.. The poor girl needs the rest."
"Of course." Hana smiled and nodded. "Ah, how much for a room for the night then?"
The woman chuckled. "I wouldn't dare to think of letting my daughter's saviours paying. You're free to stay." She smiled and turned around, waving to follow her and starting to walk on a flight of stairs.
Ronin traced the footsteps closely and followed the woman up the stairs.
Hana started to follow after her, then paused on the stairs. Shifting closer to Ronin, she murmured, "Six more steps, then there's a left turn."
She didn't want him to think she was being patronizing, but she also found herself wanting to look out for him.
"Hanako," Ronin let out a slow chuckle. "The gesture is appreciated, I am blind, but my ears are without a doubt sharper than yours. I can hear your footsteps, the direction you go and the creaking of stairs.. Or creaking of wood. I know where I am headed." He smiled warmly. "Again. It is appreciated. But unnescessary."
"Oh." She flushed. "Right. Er, sorry." A nervous chuckle and she practically fled after Cassandra's mother, rubbing uncomfortably at the back of her neck.
More because she felt awkward and wasn't comfortable with silence than anything else, she tossed back over her shoulder, "You can call me Hana, if you want."
"Let's keep the courtesy of pet names untill after we fix this mistake." He said with a slow nod as he stepped up the stairs and followed the woman into the room.
It was a fairly small room. Only one larger bed with nightstands to each side and a cupboard. "I'm sorry," the woman started with an awkward laugh, "but this is the only room we had. The others are already rented to other patrons. I hope you do not mind sharing." Ronin snorted slowly. "I'll sleep against the wall." Was what he answered in response. Too serious to be able to actually kid around.
Giving the warrior an exasperated look- then remembering he couldn't see it- Hana turned quickly to the woman with a bright smile. "It'll do fine. Thank you so much for your generosity." When she left, the kitsune turned to her companion with an ached eyebrow.
"You will do no such thing," she said briskly, pacing around the edges of the room to get a feel for the place. "The bed's perfectly big enough for two, doesn't make sense not to use it."
The female warden left again, closing the door behind her.
Ronin sighed slowly. "Are you comfortable enough with that?" He let out a slow chuckle, "I take a lot of space." That and he didn't feel nearly comfortable enough around the woman to spend the night with her in the same bed. He had gotten a good feel for Hanako's personality. So admitting that would cause her to most likely tease him with it.
She shrugged. "I'm fine with it. I've shared bed space with worse," she joked, though...honestly, it was probably true.
Lips curling up on one side, she probed, trying to get a reaction from the taciturn man, "Why? You worried I'm gonna steal your virtue or something?"
"How would you even attempt such a thing?" He turned his head to the roof. Coughing shortly. "Let's try to get this magic ward dispelled." He said hastily, trying to avoid the subject for now.
Aha. She'd hit a chord. Filing that mental note away, Hanako nodded and moved toward him with an emphatic, "Yes, please. Being human so long is making me itchy."
Ronin nodded and sat down, taking a piece of paper and the pot of ink. He pulled the cork off and dripped some on the paper, pressing his fingers down in it and starting to srcibe strange runic symbols on the paper, he did the same to his arm, the exact same pattern running up his arm. "It's actually just disenchanting the magicka my body absorbed. Wich should only be dangerous to me," he folded his legs and pressed his hand against the paper. He started to concentrate.
And the paper and his arm slowly light up in a blue light, growing brighter and brighter each second, before the entire room was engulfed in a blinding, blue light.
The paper was completely charred. Yet Ronin's arm was still pulsing with the blue energy. He frowned slowly and closed his fist. "I.. Didn't manage to disenchant it. However." He opened his fist again. It seemed like he had.. Control. "Try using your arcane powers now."
Clenching her eyes shut against the light, Hana blinked to clear her vision when it faded and shifted warily closer to Ronin, kneeling in front of him.
"Okay," she said slowly, looking him over. "You alright though?" He didn't seem to be hurt.
Even as she asked, she reached for the fire in her core and cautiously tapped into it, willing her human form to fade. Her ears shifted and grew, moving toward the top of her skull, and she felt her canines lengthen, tails sprouting from the base of her spine.
Now in her "half" form, as she called it, Hanako gave a delighted laugh, beaming. "It worked! Oh my gods, thank you!"
"Hmm..Soka.." He murmured to himself, resting his hands on his knees. "I did not manage to.. Disenchant the magic. Though I managed to reduce it to a limit where I can control it. Now, you are completely free to use any ability. And I will most likely never change that." He slowly sighed. There were some bad sides to this aswell. And if her life didn't depend on his survival and vice versa. He would've already tried ritual suicide.
"Still, this is a hell of a lot better than that collar." Calming herself a bit, Hanako reached out and laid a hand on top of one of his. "Thank you," she said gratefully. "Really." She grinned, pulling away and saying lightly, "Guess this means you don't have to kill yourself, right?"
Okay, maybe a joke in poor taste, but she couldn't seem to help herself.
Ronin looked ather and sighed. "If you'd be free from the influence if I killed myself, I would have. But. Your soul is linked to mine. If I die. You die. And the other way around." Ronin sighed slowly, before he got on his knees, pressing his hand against his chest and looking at the floor.
"Hanako. You are my master now. I have made a mistake even suicide can't cleanse. I am under your command for as long as you will." He seemed so serious and genuine.
Wait-
What?
"H-hold on." She waved her hands in front of her, eyes wide. "Master? What the hell are you- so you mean we're sorta stuck together?" Oh great. "Please don't do that," she begged, reaching out to touch his shoulder and try to push him out of the submissive position.
"Ofcourse, lord Hanako." He said as he went to sit down cross-legged again. "I do not have a choice. It is that or live a life dishonoured. I do not wish for that." He nodded slowly. "We are stuck together. No 'sort of', no 'buts'. We are stuck, lord Hanako."
Great. Just great.
Groaning, Hana dropped her head into her hands, ears drooping dejectedly. "Please don't call me that," she muttered. It was the only thing she could think to say. "If you can't manage Hana, just- Hanako is fine. Please."
With a sharp breath, she sat back, dragging her hands down her face. "Okay. Okay, there has to be a way to fix this," she said quietly, eyes narrowing as she tried to think.
"I'm sorry, Hana." Ronin leaned forward slightly, putting his hands on her shoulders, before pulling her in for a hug. "I truly am sorry. But these conditions can and will not change."
Surprised by the hug- and by his use of her nickname- it took her a moment to relax. When she did, she let out a heavy breath and let her head fall onto his shoulder, ears flicking back and forth in anxiety.
"Not your fault," she mumbled, circling her arms around him and patting his back hesitantly. "You didn't do it on purpose. You were just trying to help." She was feeling a little shell shocked, falling into a role of comforter so she didn't have to think about what was actually happening.
"It is, however, my fault. I understimqted the strength on the seal." He sighed slowly. He didn't need consoling. At all. Hanako, to him, was sounding panicked and desperate. That would explain the hug. And he was still in an eternal debt to her. So. Comforting her, or at least, making her more comfortable was a thing he was obliged to do.
"Gods." Her tails swished in agitation and she sat back, tugging at the ends of her hair. "I guess...I guess we'll just have to make the most of this then, won't we?" she muttered eventually.
With a soft sigh she shook her head and stood. "Look, I'm tired. We've both had a long day. Let's just- let's get some rest and see how things look later, okay?"
Ronin looked in her general direction, one of his hands raising the blindfold to around his forehead, instead as an actual blindfold, his sclera thick and hazy, his irisses grey and dull. He was obviously bliend. "Alright.. You take the bed.," was what he insisted on with a soft smile, his eyes, blind and hazy had somewhat of a kind and warm spark in them.
Hanako leaned down to touch his hand, guiding it to her face so he could feel her lips curving in a small smile.
"I meant what I said before," she said softly, kindly. "We can share the bed. Master's orders or whatever." Straightening, she climbed onto the bed and curled on her sigh, urging, "Come on then. Promise I won't pounce on you or anything."
"May I?" Ronin raised his other hand, but holding off from touching her face. "If I touch your face, I can more or less get a proper idea of what you look like."
"Hm? Oh- sure." She shifted closer, taking his hand and pulling him gently closer. She guided his hand to her face and let her own hand drop, doing her best to hold still despite how strange she felt doing this. Her ears flicked, tails swishing behind her as she kept the rest of her body stock still.
Ronin ran his hands over her face, gently using his calloused thumbs to feel the details of Hanako's face, after a short while, he pulled back again. "Thank you."
"Uh, you're welcome." Clearing her throat, she fell back on her usual defense mechanism- scathing humor. With a smirk, she sat back and quipped, "What, you only gonna touch my face? Not interested in anything else?"
Ronin gulped audibly, shaking his head. "N-No. Not at all. I mean-" He sighed slowly. She had him there, how much he hated to admit it. The half orc decided it would be best to just shut up now.
Giggling, Hanako flopped back onto the bed with a teasing, "So serious! We're gonna have to fix that." She yawned and let her head drop onto a pillow. "Go on and lay down, we should both get some rest," she urged, two of her tails curling over her legs to give him room.
Ronin only let out a slow grunt at the teasing tone, standing up slowly, pulling the katana from his hip and placing it against the wall, next to the bed, before lying down. Back turned towards Hanako.
Not because he didn't want to talk, but more for her comfort and privacy. That's what he kept telling himself.
It was for his comfort he was laying down like this.
She definitely was tired- but all in all, today had been a narrow escape for her, and now that she could actually relax her playful nature was starting to reassert itself. Keeping her eyes closed and evening her breath as though asleep, she flicked one of her tails in Ronin's direction, brushing the tip ticklishly along his leg.
If they were going to be stuck together, she may as well have a little fun with it.
His hand immediatly shot for the tail, grabbing a hold for it and only now feeling the fuzzy texture in his hand. "Is this yours?" He asked, rather obliviously.
Surprised, Hanako squeaked and jolted a bit at the touch. "Yes!" she exclaimed, swishing her other tails to brush against his wrist. "Those are mine too, by the way. For future reference."
Ronin let out a slow huff and released her tail again. "Alright. Good to know." He let out a slow breath, mentally noting anything furry touching him would be Hanako. And that her tails were probably sensitive, thus, possibly easily hurt.
Settling back onto the bed, Hana muttered after a moment, "I've got ears too- fox ears, I mean. I can't imagine they'll be brushing up against you-" they were even more sensitive than her tails- "but just in case, don't...freak out or anything."
"I won't hurt you." Ronin replied as his head turned slightly towards Hanako. "But. Brush up against me? What are you planning?"
"Nothing!" she protested, laughing quietly. "Well, at least I wasn't..." She grinned wickedly and rolled over, scooting closer so her tails draped over his legs and hip and ducking her head against his back, flicking her eyes against the nape of his neck.
Then she rolled away, smirking to herself, and chirped innocently, "Sleep well!"
The half orc flinched at the touch, his eyebrows arching as he felt her cheek pressed against his back. "You mischievous little thing you.." He murmured in response to her sleep well, before shutting his eyes.
The kitsune's smirk widened, but she didn't say anything else letting her body relax as she drifted closer to sleep.
Mischievous? Oh, he had no idea.
It seemed like most of the teasing had subsided. After a short while, Ronin had fallen asleep.
And somewhere even past midnight, the half orc rolled over and grabbed Hanako, pulling her in a gentle embrace while he slept. And remaining that way untill he would wake up.
Her eyes shot open and she gave a small gasp at the unexpected touch, instinctively tensing to fight off an attacker. Then she realized what was happening, who had a hold of her, and relaxed slightly.
Twisting her head a bit so she could look over her shoulder, Hana smiled slightly and let out a soft laugh. "Big, scary warrior," she murmured, eyes glinting, and relaxed back into the bed.
It was still night. She had no interest in waking up just yet, and she didn't mind the embrace. Ronin was quite warm, it was actually rather comfortable. Her tails swayed gently to drape over his legs and hip as she drifted back to sleep.
The big, scary warrior was infact sleeping like a brick. Not even noticing Hanako's movements or voice. He justvkept sleeping. And even when it was already morning, he still kept sleeping.
Her internal clock woke her just after sunrise and Hana groaned, attempting to roll over before she was stopped by a rather large person at her back.
Oh. Righ.
"Ronin." She wriggled around to face him and put her hand on his shoulder, shaking lightly when her voice alone got no response. "Ronin? It's morning, wake up."
He stirred with a low groan as Hanako started to wake him. Yet, all of a sudden, his eyes shot open. There was someone in his arms. He immediatly rolled on his back, releasing Hanako by throwing one of his arms up. As if he disn't touch her at all. "I am sorry."
She couldn't help the burst of laughter that bubbled up from her chest at his quick reaction. "It's alright," she assured him, reaching to lay a hand on his shoulder gently. "I didn't mind, really. You just startled me at first, that's all."
Sitting up, she stretched her arms over her head and gave a wide yawn. Her stomach growled loudly and she chuckled. "You hungry?"
"It wasn't intentional." He replied, sitting up slowly with the hand on his shoulder. Yet, he couldn't surpress a grin as he heard her stomach rumbling quite obviously. "You should be concerned about yourself."
Hanako laughed again, softly. "Well, I already know that I'm hungry," she pointed out with a grin. Bouncing off the bed, she moved toward the door, tails swishing behind her. "Come on, let's see if we can beg something to eat downstairs."
Ronin slowly rose and picked up the sheathed blade again, resting it on his shoulder and nodding. "Lead the way." He murmured as he followed Hanako.
The kitsune tripped her way lightly down the stairs and into the main room of the inn, looking around and sniffing the air.
Food. That way. She followed the scent toward what she assumed served as the dining hall or tavern or whatever these people called it, making sure to tread heavily so Ronin could follow the sound of her footsteps.
Ronin followed Hanako in silence, his nose pocking up the scent aswell. Yet. He remained following Hanako closely. After a short while, the two would reach a door. When it was pushed open, they did indeed enter some kind of mess or dining hall.
There were quite a few empty tables dotting the room and Hanako moved toward one, spotting Cassie's mother and waving to the woman with a friendly smile, forgetting that she still currently bore the ears and tails of a fox.
"I know she let us have the room for free," the kitsune murmured as she took a seat, "but we really should pay for a meal. I'll-" She reached for her coin purse, then remembered that the slaver who'd kidnapped her had taken it.
Swearing quietly, she dropped her head into her hands. "Great. Just great."
"Looking for this?" Ronin asked as he juggled the coinpurse in his hand. "The sound of these ringing coins when I fought him was really off-putting. Is this yours?" He put the purse down on the table.
Her eyes widened and she looked up at him in surprise for a moment, then a wide grin stretched across her face. "Ronin!"
Spontaneously she lunged across the table and threw her arms around his neck, laughing incredulously. "You're amazing," she giggled, settling back into her chair and grabbing the small purse as she did.
"You might be a fox spirit," he chuckled slowly, "but you're not the only one who can be cunning." Yet, he liked the compliments. He enjoyed making people happy. So. A good start of what seemed to be a good day.
She giggled again and waved to the innkeeper, flagging him down. "Well, I think you e earned yourself a meal. On me," she teased lightly. "Gods, I hope whatever they're serving tastes as good as it smells, I'm starving."
Ronin chuckled slowly. "Seems like a lucky day." He noted as he sat back, folding his arms.
The innkeeper came over, bowing deeply infront of the two. "My thanks for saving my daughter." He stood up again. "Now. What can I get'chu two? 'N call me Roald."
Hanako smiled and waved off his thanks, nodding at Ronin. "He's the one who really deserves your gratitude." Her stomach growled and she flushed lightly, adding quickly, "And I'll take whatever you're serving that's hot."
"Aye. My thanks, warrior." Roald nodded curtly towards Ronin, only then noticing he was blind. Ronin shook his head with a chuckle. "I've been raised to fend for the weaker. I would not have forgiven myself if I failed there." Roald nodded slowly. Not really understanding Ronin's reasoning. But nevertheless, he saved his beloved daughter.
And they were hungry. And no one left his inn with an empty stomach. With a broad grin, "aye. Two mushroom beef stew comin' right up, ya want sum ale with that?" He asked with the same grin plastered to his face.
She supposed it was a little early for it, but alcohol had never had quite the effect on her system that it seemed to on humans. Hana smiled at him again and nodded with a small shrug. "Sure, I'll take some. Thanks, Roald."
Glancing at her companion, she added with a crooked grin, "I don't speak for the big guy, but whatever he wants is on me."
"Make that two." Ronin added, folding his arms. The inkeeper nodded and walked away from their table, rubbing his hands.
"So." Hana looked at him, propping her elbows on the table and lacing her fingers together to create a small shelf for her chin. "Raised to defend the weak, huh?"
She looked at him curiously, eyes sweeping up and down. "You know, if we're gonna be stuck together, we may as well get to know each other. Tell me about yourself."
"Not much about me. My father raised me and thought me how to fight, my mother was a tailor." He shrugged slowly. "I don't have a grand legacy or some kind of tragic past."
"Most people don't," she pointed out lightly. "Doesn't mean their pasts aren't interesting." She let one of her hands drop to the table, clicking her nails against the wood.
"Where'd your father learn to fight like that then?" He had a fairly unique style and apparently honor code she was curious about.
"My grandfather." Ronin chuckled. "It has been in the family for a long time. However.." He sighed slowly, sitting back. "I was one of the first to leave the temple and become a wanderer."
"You lived in a temple?" Her ears perked up with interest and her tails swished behind her. Any little piece of information about him was valuable to her.
She was so absorbed in her companion she didn't notice Roald moving back toward their table.
"Yes. Me and several other children. And their parents. A small clan." He chuckled slowly, already smelling the food and ale for the two. The plates and mugs were placed down and Ronin nodded. "Thank you."
Hana squeaked and started a bit, surprised by the sudden arrival of the food, but she managed to nod and thank Roald.
"That sounds nice," she mused, tucking into her meal. "Like one big family."
"It was." Ronin smiled softly, putting his hand on the mug of ale. "It was beautiful." His thoughts seemed to wander a bit. Perhaps he was homesick?
Looking up from her food, Hanako hesitated a moment. "I'm sorry," she murmured. "Should I not have asked? I didn't mean to make you..." She trailed off and waved a hand vaguely, though she knew he couldn't see it. Still, she hadn't intended for the questions to make him melancholy.
Ronin turned to her. "Eh?" He shook his head slowly. "No, it's fine. Just a bit.. Distracted, that's all."
"Mmm..." She let it drop, returning her attention to her food. "You know, either I'm absolutely famished, or that Roald is a great cook," she said after a moment, finally taking a break from the stew to actually breathe and sip at her mug.
"Oh hey, there's something we can learn about each other!" She beamed at him. "What kinda food do you like? Or not like?" Really she was searching for any information at this point.
Ronin chuckled slowly. "He's a great cook. But I promise you. I'm better." He said as he was eating his own meal aswell. "I'm not picky. It just has to be well prepared."
"You cook?" She perked up a bit. "Gods, that's good to hear. If we're gonna be stuck together, at least one of us can make something edible," she chuckled.
Ronin chuckled. "I mostly cooked for my students. Training was harsh so some of them slept over at my house. I always enjoyed it." He smirked as he took a swig from his ale.
Hana grinned. For some reason she could picture that very easily. "Seems like you were happy," she mused, taking another bite of her stew. "Why'd you leave?"
"I was. Very happy." Ronin smiled warmly. Yet the same warm slike turned to a rqther cold and broken ond. "I will explain that in time."
"Oh." She bit her lip. Seemed like a touchy subject. "Sorry." She ate in silence for a moment, then ventured slowly, "So... You just- wander around?" And she'd be stuck wandering with him. Although she supposed it wasn't that different from what she'd probably do on her own, really.
"I have shamed my family and lost my honour. I still follow the code my fathet taught me. But I pledge my allegiance to anyone hiring." Saying it like that, Ronin realised once again how his life went to utter shit.
Hana's ear pressed down against her skull, eyes softening in pity at his tone. "Are you a...mercenary then?" she ventured, frowning. That didn't seem quite right- he'd helped Cassandra without expecting any reward, that didn't seem like something a mercenary would do.
"Occasionally, yes." He snorted slowly. "Though I tend to keep my contracts towards hurting bandits or slavers.."
She smiled softly and reached across the table to touch his hand, keeping the contact light. "Well, I'm glad you did," she murmured. "I don't think I ever properly thanked you. You saved my life back there."
"And then I ruined it by tying it to mine." Ronin took another swig, before proceeding to eat.
Hana frowned. "Complicated. Not ruined," she corrected, taking a generous gulp from her own mug. She cracked a small smile and attempted to joke, "Honestly, that binding thing probably saved my life too. You obviously know how to handle yourself in a fight, I might be better off."
Ronin shook his head. "I get into trouble." He swallowed slowly. "Life threatening troible."
She gulped a bit at that. Oh boy. She'd been a little afraid of that.
Then, forcing cheery brightness into her tone, she waved him off with, "Well, now you have someone to back you up. Two heads are better than one and all that."
"I see it more as me now having someone I need to protect with my life and calculate in my plans." He said gruffly. "Sorry."
Hana pouted at him slightly, though she knew he couldn't see it. "Hey, I can hold my own," she defended herself.
Then, as an afterthought, she added, "And won't defending me with your life kinda defeat the purpose? If you die, I die too, remember?"
He chuckled slowly. "A paradox, isn't it?" He shook his head. "I'm not saying you can't. But as you might've seen, I'll have to learn how exactly you sound when walking or moving. And make sure I take most of the blows aimed at you. It makes it more dangerous."
She sighed, rubbing her temple. "If I ever find that mage slaver in the afterlife, I'm going to strangle him," she muttered, glowering at the table. Another sigh as a thought struck her and she added, "You're going to have to learn how to identify all three of my forms, too. Sorry, that just makes this more complicated."
Ronin put a hand on her head and ruffled her hair. "We'll sort it out. Somehow. I'll even teach you a thing or two."
Her ears perked up and she smiled a bit, grumbling about the hair ruffling more for the form of the thing than because it really bothered her.
"Maybe I'll teach you," she replied lightly. The man needed to loosen up, learn to have a little fun.
She was good at fun.
"Perhaps I will." He said with a shrug as he finished up his stew, another swig of ale also emptied the mug
"So." Hana tapped her fingers on the table, cocking her head to one side. "What's your plan, oh great warrior? Where do we go from here?"
"I was hoping you had that planned." Ronin leaned back in his seat.
Hanako shrugged. "I'm...a bit of a wanderer myself." She pursed her lips, thinking. "I suppose we could head inland, toward on if the bigger cities. Maybe we could find someone to help us with this whole bonded situation!"
"That sounds like an idea." Ronin nodded slowly as he let out a soft chuckle. "Do you know of any towns nearby."
She bit her lip, thinking. "We could head to Cerenis," she mused after a moment. "Port city, lots of people in and out... Even if we didn't find someone who could help us, we might at least get pointed in the right direction."
"Cerenis. Never been there." He noted. "But. It sounds like we could learn more there." He put his hands behind his head. "Cerenis it is. We need to get supplies."
Hana smiled. "Back to that little shop then?" she guessed, starting to stand and looking around the tavern so they could find Roald and pay.
"Probably." He nodded slowly as he stood up.
Flagging down the innkeeper, the kitsune fished out her purse and nodded in Ronin's direction. "Right. Wanna check on Cassie quick before we leave?"
"Hm. She's probably still resting. Best not to disturb her." He navigated through the door, putting his hand against it, waiting for Hanako to join him again. "Besides, I'd get all emotional."
She hurried to his side, finding a small smile twitching at her lips. "Aw, you're just a big softy, aren't you?" she teased, elbowing him gently. "You don't want to say goodbye to the kid, you like to cuddle in your sleep- it's hard to remember how good you are in a fight sometimes," she laughed.
Ronin chuckled slowly, putting his hand on Hanako's head. "Perhaps I am," he pushed the door open and stepped out the room adjusting the katana on his hip.
Hanako trailed after him, casting a last glance around the inn before moving toward the door. "What supplies do you think we'll need?" she asked over her shoulder. She usually traveled light, hunting for food and using streams for water.
"At least some rations and two bedrolls. We might not make it to an inn before nightfall." He nodded slowly. "They probably have that at the nearest general store. Probably where we bought the ink and such."
"Alright." She glanced down the street, then touched his arm lightly and said, "This way," setting off toward the little shop.
Ronin nodded slowly, following Hanako's footsteps with his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. He did look quite imposing like that.
Hana bounced happily into the store, humming quietly to herself as she glanced around the shelves. She was more awake now, energy crackling through her. "Bedrolls over here," she chirped, pausing in front of a shelf and swishing her tails.
Ronin followed the sound of her voice and nodded. "Alright. Is there anything else you would need travelling?" He put his hand on the bedrolls, pulling two from the shelve. "I'll strap these to my back when we travel."
She shrugged. "I normally travel pretty light. A change of clothes, a canteen, maybe some food. Not much else." She turned to look around the shop. "What else do you think we'll need?"
"A backpack. Rations. Enough water. Some medical supplies." He answered as he propped the bedrolls under his arm.
She flitted about the shop, collecting supplies as he lifted them off. "Alright, this should do." She let her shoulder bump his as she moved past him toward the shopkeeper, urging him to follow while she fished out her coin purse again.
Ronin followed Hanako as she did, stepping behind her with large treads. "Perhaps I'm going to need some new armour.. Or at least a proper outfit," was what he murmured to himself.
Chatting politely with the shopkeeper as she paid, Hana glanced over her shoulder at him. "Is there a clothes shop nearby?" she asked brightly.
The owner of the store gave her some quick directions and she took Ronin's arm as she moved to leave. "No armor in a town this small I'm afraid, but let's get you some clothes, yeah?"
He got pulled along by Hanako, quirking an eyebrow. "I didn't mean right now," damn fox
She quirked an eyebrow at him. "Well, why not? May as well while we're here, right?"
"No armour in a small town like this. Your words. I'd prefer to combine the two." He shrugged slowly. "So..what direction are we headed?"
"Toward Cerenis?" She paused, trying to remember where exactly the were on Serendipity's coast. "North," she decided after a moment, turning on the main road through the town. "Should be a sign or something somewhere...aha!"
North Road. Excellent. She set off with a little bounce in her step, chirping, "Come on then."
Ronin adjusted the backpack, making sure it was comfortable enough for the travel. Following the sounds of Hanako's footsteps.
The town was small enough that they were on open road quickly enough. Hanako fell back a bit to walk beside her companion instead of in front of him.
"So." She worried her bottom lip. "This bond thing... You said out lives are tied together, but is there anything else I should know?" Did she have some sort of magical leash now, for instance?
"I'm basically the controller. I can shut down your magic whenever I want." He glanced in her general direction. "Not that I ever would, rest assured."
"Huh." That revelation hit her like a punch in the gut. She found she believed him, trusted him not to just cut off her magic, but the fact that he could...
It was not a pleasant thought.
Clearing her throat, she physically shook the thought away, ears pressing back against her skull and tails drooping a bit. "Okay then. That's...good to know."
"I'm sorry." Ronin said as he walked with quite the pace, he was taller than Hanako, so, his strides were bigger.
Having to take two paces for every one of his, Hana shook her head. "Not your fault," she said with a sharp breath. "Really. Sorry, I'm not trying to make you feel guilty, it's just...this is taking some getting used to."
He shook his head in return. "It is." He sighed slowly. "You don't need to apologise. I am responsible."
She sighed, running her hand through her hair and scratching at the base of one ear. "You've really gotta stop beating yourself up about that," she mumbled.
Looking up at him with a small smile, she said with open sincerity, "I'd rather be stuck to you than live with that collar for the rest of my life."
Ronin halted, "I did something harmful and possibly irreversable to you." He ducked slightly and closed his hand around the hilt of the sword. "Stand ready."
Opening her mouth to protest again, Hana froze and sank back, a low growl rising in her chest, ears perking up while her eyes flicked around warily. "What? What is it?"
A slow laughter resounded as several scruffy looking people emerged from the bushes. "A green ape 'n sum fox bitch. I hope ya guys have some coin." Ronin glanced in Hanako's direction. "What kind of magic do you practise, actually?"
"Illusions and tricks, mostly," she said quietly, eyes sizing up their opponents. "And fire. I'm real good with fire."
Her lips curved into a wicked grin. "Scare 'em off or light 'em up?"
"Oi! What'chu talkin' about?! If y'ain't got the coin, we'll be takin that piece of ass." Ronin huffed, standing up straight again. "I'll leave it to your better judgement."
Hana growled, eyes narrowing. "Fire," she decided, eyes locking on the one who'd made the "piece of ass" comment. She flicked her hand out, and a jet of blue-white flame shot toward the bandits.
"I'll keep them busy, sneak around and attack from behind?" she suggested quietly to Ronin, dnacing back a step.
"A blind man sneaking." Ronin huffed. "Quite the sense of humour." He shook his head slowly and leaned forward , ducking slightly, his hand hovering over the hilt of his sword. "I'll show you the fuits of a youth filled with vigourous training, Hanako." His hand shot down for the hilt and he dissappeared from sight. Only a small cloud of dust from where he was.
Suddenly, three of the bandits fell with an explosion of blood, several others followed immediatly after. The rest were for Hanako to burn.
Ronin appeared back to where he was before. With one swat in the air, all the blood was wiped off. He sheathed his blade again with a slow sigh.
Whoops. Yeah, she hadn't really thought that one through. Still, Ronin seemed to handle himself fine.
"Impressive," Hana admitted, flicking her hand again and sending out another jet of flame, this one more intense than the first, roasting the bandits in a matter of moments.
"And that merely was my Shunpo," he coughed slowly. "Flash step." He corrected himself, resting the palm of his hand against the hilt. "I think we're about done here? The stench of burned flesh is becoming quite distuingishable."
"Yep." She popped the p, wrinkling her nose. "C'mon, let's get out of here before someone comes along to investigate." She knew the fire would burn out on its own before it could really hurt the land around them.
Ronin nodded. "Brigands and outlaws. Truly a pest." He murmured to himself as he proceeded on his way again.
"I take it you don't like pests," Hana muttered, glancing over her shoulder as she hurried to fall into step beside him. She gave a little shiver, flicking her tails primly. "Men are pigs," she muttered, screwing up her face as she thought back to the bandits.
"Er...no offense," she added quickly, flushing and looking up at him.
"Not these kind of pests." He said, his face having a bitter expression. He glanced at Hanako. "Men without honour are," he corrected. "None taken." He held up his hand, three coinpurses in it. "Think this'll be enough for new clothes and the armour?" He asked, planning to give the rest to anyone in need. He disliked taking someone's possessions. But honestly. It probably weren't the brigand's to begin with.
Hana's eyes widened and she gave a quick, surprised laugh. "Well aren't you full of surprises?" she teased delightedly, eyes sparkling. "Yeah, I think that'll be enough and then some."
Ronin shrugged. "Same trick as before." He said, "not really a surprise as I pulled it off before. But I'm glad it can please you." He chuckled slowly as he tucked them into the backpack.
Still chuckling quietly, Hanako shook her head. "You know, if you wanted to give being a little less honorable a try, we could make a killing as pickpockets," she commented playfully.
Ronin shook his head, missing the actual joke in it. "It's a way of life. You don't follow it when it's benificial." He smirked bitterly. "Even though I am not allowed to practise it, I still do. It gives me some direction."
She rolled her eyes. She really was gonna have to teach this guy how to lighten up a bit.
His rather bitter tone caught her attention though, and she glanced up at him. "Not allowed to practice it?" she asked a little warily.
"Yes. Not allowed to practise. I'll explain it later." He said with the same bitter tone. "At sunset when we're stopping forthe night."
"Oh. Um, alright." Her curiosity was piqued, but she decided not to pester him about it. She let her eyes skim over the road ahead of them.
It was actually pretty peaceful. If the situation had been a bit different, she probably would have enjoyed it more.
Ronin moved in silence, not really knowing anything to talk about, so he just kept walking, closely listening to Hana's footsteps. As the sun was setting, he stopped. "Is there an inn nearby? Or should we set up camp somewhere around here?" It was most likely the latter, since he didn't hear the sounds one would occasionally associate with an inn.
"I think we're camping outdoors tonight," Hana replied, slowing her pace and looking around. The last marker they'd passes had declared the nearest town was still ten miles down the road.
There was a small grove of trees just off the road that looked like it would do a decent job of hiding them from sight. She touched the back of his hand lightly as she started to move off. "C'mon, this way."
Ronin nodded slowly. "Alright." He said as he turned around, following Hanako's footsteps.
She led them into the trees, finding a relatively clear path of ground where they could set down their supplies and calling Ronin over with a quick, "Here."
She turned in a little circle, taking stock. "If I clear some of the leaves and things I could light a fire," she mused, wondering if that was a good idea so close to the road.
Ronin nodded as he pulled the backpack from his back, putting it down on the floor. "That could do. Need help?"
She grinned, snapping her fingers and creating a cheery little blaze. "Nah, I got it." Hana settle back against the trunk of the tree, holding her hands out toward the flames and humming contentedly.
"I'm hungry," she said, looking up at her companion. "What do we got to eat?"
Ronin pulled the backpack closer, opening it. "Smoked fish, dried meat.. Cheese and bread." He said as he pulled someof the rations out. "This should last us for some days." He glanced back at Hanako"'s general direction and sighed slowly. "Now. You wanted to know why I am not with my clan?" He inquired, hoping that she'd actually dismiss it. But the chance of that was very slim.
The kitsune pounced forward and grabbed a portion of the food, using a stick to begin roasting a piece of cheese over the fire. "I did," she chirped, too hungry to pay much mind to the dip in his tone.
Ronin nodded slowly. Way too cheerful. But he shrugged it off. "It happened when I was roughly seventeen years of age," he started with a slow sigh. "The temple was in ruins. My clan subjected to a brutal and unexpected attack from an allied clan. They sought the forbidden art we guarded. This was locked in the Kurohitsugi." Ronin smirked slowly. "It was that day I became blind." He noted, "I was hiding with an infant. And I stumbled across this artifact. It opened to me and the infant. The newborn absorbed part of the powers and I witnessed the secrets. The horror was too big and in an insane frenzy, I blinded myself." He looked at Hanako. "The infant witnessed it all. She was immediatly given away with a ritual mask. My superiors hoped she'd never discover the source of her powers. I pity her. She is constantly chased by the demon of these forbidden arts."
He took a deep breath. "I was held responsible and cast out. That is how I became a wanderer and mercenary."
Hanako stared at him for a long moment in silence.
"But..." She frowned. "But- it wasn't your fault!" That struck her as entirely unjust, and the flames leaped a little higher in response to her emotions.
Ronin chuckled bitterly. "Ofcourse it wasn't. But I was touched by the corruption. They know, and I know that it is still festering to this day. And that I will return one day to seek the full power when I lose my mind to it." He let out another sad sigh, his normal, proudful aura diminishing and his pose drooping. "I was a danger there. That was why I was outcasted."
She paused a moment, then shuffled closer, letting her shoulder bump his lightly. "Maybe..." she started slowly, quietly, "Maybe if we can find someone to help us figure out this bond thing...maybe they could help you, too."
Ronin shook his head. "It's a part of me. I need it as much as a beating heart to survive."
Hana sighed, drawing her knees up to her chest and wrapping her arms around her legs. "I'm sorry," she murmured, not quite knowing what else to say.
Ronin shook his head and put an arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. "Don't. I don't need pity." He said with a sigh.
Her eyes widened at the unexpected closeness, but the kitsune recovered quickly, hesitantly letting her head rest against his shoulder.
"It's not pity," she murmured, letting two of her tails swish around behind them, one gently touching the small of his back. "It's...empathy."
Ronin nodded slowly. "Thanks." He said with a slow sigh. Not sure what else to say or how to continue the conversation.
Hanako stayed leaning against him for a moment, then pulled away. "You should eat something," she said briskly, getting abruptly to her feet. She was feeling twitchy all of the sudden. "I'll, um...I'll put up some wards or something."
She wasn't great at magic that wasn't illusions or fire, but she felt like she had to do something.
Ronin nodded slowly as he pulled up a piece of bread. "Don't worry about wards," he said as he put the piece of bread in his mouth, pressing his hands together and folding his fingers, weaving some kind of gesture. With a poof, A spectral version of Ronin appeared. Pitch black. As if it was his own shadow. "The kurohitsugi's influence." He explai.ed as he proceeded to eat, the shadow going around and starting to perform several rituals and placing wards.
Yelping, Hana jumped back and gave the shadow conjure a wary look. "Ah- if you say so," she muttered, slinking back to the fire and curling in toward the warmth, wrapping her tails around to lay in her lap, ears flicking back and forth.
The shadow immediatly poofed put of existence as soon.as it was done with the warding rituals. Ronin pulled a bedrollup and tossed it over to Hanako. "You might beore comfortable in this." He said as he stood up slowly, hand on the hilt. "I heard a waterfall closeby. I'm going to investigate and do some excercices."
"Oh." She caught the bedroll and set about laying it out, glancing up at him. "Um... Be careful, I guess."
Ronin nodded. "Don't worry. It's some shadowboxing. I'll come back in one piece." He chuckled slowly. "If I don't get lost in the woods, that is."
She paused at that, not quite able to tell if he was joking or not. "Do you...want me to come with you?"
Ronin let out a slightly louder laughter. "No, no. I was joking. This site is warded, I can find my way back even if I have to pinpoint their aura." At that, he turned around, clipping the sheath loose and resting it on his shoulder.
"Oh. Alright. Uh- have fun?" she called after him with a small, slightly bemused smile. Shrugging, Hana eyed the bedroll and then cautiously climbed into it. She'd never actually used one before, and found it surprisingly comfortable.
Ronin only raised his hand in return, dissappearing between the trees.
His ears didn't fail him once again. He came at a small cascade of water. He pressed the sword in the ground and sighed slowly, activating his clairvoyance to, although it was actually more mapping it with arcane force, see his surroundings. A small pond.
He glanced back over his shoulder. Probably Hanako would like this kind of scene. He'd tell her in the morning.
The kitsune tossed and turned a bit, trying to figure out a way to comfortably fit in the bedroll. With a sigh, she concluded that her tails would have to go and let her form shift into human.
For a few minutes, she simply laid there, looking up. She found she was getting rather anxious, waiting for Ronin to come back. Perhaps it was the link between them, but even though she knew logically that he could look out for himself, she was still twitchy about his absence.
After several hours, Ronin surfaced frol the edge of the clearing again, silent to not wake Hanako up.
Dozing lightly, Hana didn't notice his return, having finally gotten herself to relax. Even in the bedroll, she curled unconsciously toward the fire, not so much for the warmth but for the tingle of recognition it sparked in her magic. It was soothing.
Ronin sat down infront of the fire, the fire between himself and Hanako. He let out a silent sigh and pulled another bedroll from the pack, putting itbdown and lying ontop of it.
The noise was just enough to stir Hana from her dozing, and she blinked, fuzzily focusing ont he figure in front of her. There was a flash of instinctive wariness, then she settled. Oh, Ronin. Good. With a small sigh, she settled back down and let her eyes slide closed, drifting off.
Ronin didn't notice waking Hanako, he was just resting on the bedroll, before he closed his eyes.
By the time she woke, Hanako had somehow managed to roll herself almost into the fire- which was now some sputtering embers- in her search for warmth. She grumbled sleepily and groped around with one hand without opening her eyes, sighing contentedly when she found the dying fire.
Ronin's ears twitched at the sudden sound, he was already awake, sitting cross-legged on a rock with his blade in his lap. Hearing the grumble and content sigh, he knew it was his companion and ignored it for the time being.
It took a few more minutes, but Hanako finally managed to wake herself up completely. Sitting up, she covered a yawn with her hand and arched her back in a stretch.
"Ronin?" Her eyes flicked around a moment until she found him and she yawned again. "How long you been up?"
"Several hours already." Was what Ronin answered as he stretched his neck, popping it as he did.
Hana blinked at him. "Did you sleep at all?" she asked incredulously, getting to her feet and starting to roll up her bedroll.
"Yes. I'm just an early riser." Ronin said as he looked in Hanako's direction.
She snorted softly and mumbled, "That makes one of us." Packing up their few other supplies, she practically skipped over to him. She may not like waking early, but once up she was up. "Right! Let's be on our way, shall we?"
"Before we go-" Ronin said, stretching his arms, "do you wish to take a bath? There's a pond down where I went yesterday."
"Bath?" Though human, she could have sworn her ears perked up a bit. "That sounds lovely." Bounding over to take his arm, Hana said happily, "Show me?"
"It's my courtesy to warn you that it is infact cold," Ronin said as he felt her grabbing a hold of his arm. "Then again, you can conjure fire, that shouldn't be a problem. You can make it into a hot spring," Ronin chuckled slowly as he started to walk down to where he went training the night before.
Chuckling, Hanako allowed her form to shift back to her "halfling" state. "If I did, would you want in?" she asked with a grin.
"I'd never say no to something that releases tension," Ronin said with a smirk. "Code of honour or not." He arched an eyebrow. "Your footsteps have changed." He noted.
"Oh, have they?" She glanced down at her feet, then back up. "I have my tails again. I suppose they throw my balance off a bit- I'm so used to it, I must just correct my steps automatically," she said with a small shrug.
Ronin tapped his ear. "These are my eyes." He said as they entered the small clearing with the pond.
"Hmm"ing quietly, Hana's attention was suddenly caught by the little clearing and she looked around with a smile. "Oh, this is quite pretty, actually," she said happily, dropping his arm and tripping toward the pond. She stuck a toe in, frowned, then flicked her fingers at the water.
A jet of flame raced across the surface of the pond and she smiled when another toe test proved it was now quite warm. "Someone said something about a hot spring?" she said over her shoulder, stripping out of her clothes- what did it matter? He was blind- and slipping into the water with a happy little squealing noise.
Ronin chuckled slowly as he heard the fire razing. "That sounds like it did the job." He said as he himself also stripped down, pulling the blindfold of aswell and stepping into the water, also completely naked. Seemed he wasn't affected by this at all.
"I'd say so-" She started to turn, actually saw him, and whipped back around with a small squeak.
She certainly wasn't blind.
"Not a shy person, are you?" Hanako noted dryly, moving out into the water a bit to put some space between them.
Ronin arched an eyebrow at the squeel, huffing bemused. It was a pretty funny, and cute, sound Hanako just made. He arched an eyebrow at her remark, sinking down in the water, it reached his throat. "Why would I be? I have nothing to be ashamed off." He noted. It was true, he had a pretty broad and strong physique, yet, also a large scar running from his shoulder down to his waist.
"Yeah, I could see that," the kitsune muttered, glancing back at him. Well...if he wasn't embarrassed, she saw no reason why she should be.
Allowing herself to relax a bit, Hana rolled over to float on her back. "What's the scar from?" she asked casually in the interest of making conversation. "You don't have to tell me if you don't want to. I was just curious."
"Sparring accident with an overeager pupil." Ronin chuckled, "Hinata, his name, thought he was allowed to use a blade. So I showed the danger of it with my own blood."
She quirked an eyebrow and commented, "That seems a little extreme just to teach a lesson."
"It was a shallow cut. It just never healed properly," he shrugged slowly, "else he might hurt another pupil and himself. And he isn't the type to listen to a scolding."
Curious, Hana drifted a little closer to get a better look at the scar, making a concerted effort to keep her eyes above his waist. "You must have been a very dedicated teacher," she murmured, ears perking toward him a bit.
Not like he could see her effort to do so. Only hearing her movements in the rushing of the water. "I dedicated my life and soul to forging my pupils into strong, capable and honourable warriors." He nodded with a deep hum. "And I do not regret this scar at all."
A small smile quirked at her lips and, on impulse, Hanako circled her fingers around his wrist and lifted his hand to her face so he could "see" it.
"Would you ever take on another student?" she asked quietly, tilting her head to one side and flicking her tails back and forth in the water.
Ronin arched an eyebrow at the sudden touch, feeling the corner of her mouth going upwards. She was smiling. "I want to. But I can't. I have fallen from grace."
"Weeeell," she mused slowly, letting her hand fall from his wrist. "What if you taught me? Not all official-like, just some basic stuff. Ya know, to pass the time while we're traveling."
"If you're interested, I can give you lessons on history and philosphy. I can't teach swordsmanship since I am unable to see your form if I did."
She hadn't actually considered that. Still... "Well rounded warrior, huh?" Hana teased lightly, tapping the tip of his nose with a forefinger. "I've never been much for book learning, but I'd be willing to try to sit through a few sessions."
Ronin sighed slowly as his nose was poked. "I'll try to teach you meditation and introspection. I'll drop the history." He said with a nod, resting his hands on the sides of the pond.
Wrinkling her nose slightly, she muttered, "Tobin tried to get me to meditate. I was never very good at it." She waved a hand by her head. "Too flighty. Can't quiet my mind or whatever. I'll give it a shot though."
She hadn't realized how close she'd drifted to him, but when she turned to roll over on her back again her leg brushed his under the water, dangerously high. Yelping quietly, she shot back with a splash, face flushed. "Ah- sorry, my bad." Mumbling apologies, she ducked her head under the water and scrubbed her fingers through her hair.
"That is what I'm afraid off. Still. It is worth the try." He frowned at the touch and sudden yelp. "What's wrong?" He asked, brow furrowed and his tone serious.
"Nothing," Hanako gasped, coming up for air and just catching the question. "Absolutely nothing. Don't worry about it." She ran her fingers through her hair again, sighing in contentment as she felt travel dust come loose.
"Hanako." His emphasis on the 'o', his tone demanding and inquisitive. Repeating his previous question.
Glowering- even though she knew he couldn't see it- she muttered, "I just didn't mean to brush your leg, alright? It was a little...personal."
Ronin folded his arms, looking extremely displeased. "That was unforgivable." The corner of his mouth twitched up slightly, before he burst out in laughter.
Hana froze for a moment, thinking he was actually annoyed with her. Then she scowled. "Hey!" she protested, splashing water in his direction and sniffing primly "Well excuse me for trying to have some propriety. Wasn't just you it got personal for!"
She snapped her mouth closed quickly, wishing she hadn't said that last part.
Ronin chuckled slowly, "so that explains the yelp." He said with a smirk, before rasing his hands defensivly. "I'm sorry."
Growling, Hanako sent another splash his direction. "I do not yelp," she protested petulantly, conveniently forgetting the little noise she'd made. Or rather blocking it from her mind.
Ronin arched an eyebrow. "That sound was definitly a yelp," he noted. "And it was adorable."
Hana gaped at him. "I am NOT adorable!" She pouted, folding her arms over her chest while her ears flicked in irritation. "I am an incredibly powerful creature of fire and magic!"
It probably didn't help her case that her voice squeaked a bit at the end of that particular declaration.
Ronin smirked slowly. "Correction. You are an adorable and incredible being of fire and magic." He saod with a soft chuckle.
"You-!" Huffing, the adorable creature of fire and magic paddled a little closer to smack his shoulder lightly, then put her back to him and folded her arms over her chest. "I'm not talking to you," she said primly, tails flicking through the water in irritation and unwittingly brushing back and forth across his chest.
Ronin chuckled slowly, before grinning. "Fine." He noted, the tails brushing across his chest. He grabbed the three of them and holding them in place, carefully, making sure not to hurt Hanako. "Though you may want to avoid tickling me when you're not talking to me."
Hana gasped, eyes going wide, and went very still. Her tails were quite sensitive, and while a few light touches really didn't get much of a reaction, being grabbed like that sent a strange jolt down her spine.
"A-alright," she mumbled, not moving an inch. "Sorry."
Ronin smirked cheekily. He could understand why Hanako was like this. It was fun once in a while. "I thought you were pouting and wouldn't talk to me." He said in response. A slight teasing tone slipping into his sentence.
She huffed, trying to ignore the little tingles his touch was sending through her tails to the rest of her body. "I'm not," she said petulantly, refusing to turn around to look at him. "I'm...talking to myself. Yeah, that."
"Alright then." Ronin said as he leant back against the side of the pond, closing his eyes, still holding her tails.
Hanako gave an experimental twitch with her tails, ears flicking back and forth. "And- to myself- I may note that my tails are rather, er...sensitive. And unless you're planning on following up on the physical messages you're sending, you might wanna let go."
Her cheeks were quite red, arms folded defiantly over her chest.
Ronin's eyebrow arched and he released her tail. "Sorry. I didn't know," he sighed then smirked slowly. "Do you want me to follow up on that?"
She whipped her tails away, wrapping two around her legs and one around her waist. Then her eyebrows crept almost into her hairline and she slowly turned to look at Ronin.
"You know," Hana said after a moment. "I'm really not sure if you're joking or not."
Ronin kept resting against the side, his eyes closed as he slowly sunk to his chin. "I'm not joking." He simply stated as he looked at her, arching an eyebrow.
"Huh." Hana fell quiet for a moment, considering that. Slowly, she drifted a little closer, just within arm's reach.
"How do you know- hey, for all you know, I could have a third eye growing out of my stomach," she said suddenly. "You sure you're not joking?" Her head tilted to one side.
"That would be.. Disturbing." Ronin said with a slow chuckle. "But, only with your consent. I am not joking."
"Huh," she said again, blinking. Her eyes flicked up and down his form, or as much of it as she could see, and she moved a bit closer, reaching out slowly to lay her hands on his shoulders.
Well, if they were stuck together- what harm could having a little fun do? "I don't, by the way," she said with a crooked grin. "Have an eye on my stomach." She shifted a little closer.
"I'll take your word for it." Ronin said, glancing in direction of his shoulder.
Hana smirked. "What, you don't wanna check?" She reached for one of his hands and guided it to touch her belly. "With all that big talk, I was expecting a little...more," she teased, ears flicking.
"So.. That's how you want to play it." Ronin said as he touched her belly, slowly rubbing it, he put a hand on her shoulder and switched around with her, causing Hanako to be up against the side and Ronin infront of her. He pressed a soft and tender kiss against her cheek, then one in her neck.
"Oh!" Hana gave a squeak of surprise when he flipped them around, then felt the touch of his lips and her lashes fluttered a bit. "Oh..."
Her hands slid around to his back, holding him gently against her. "You know, I thought you were more a fighter than a lover," she teased a little breathlessly.
Ronin chuckled gently in her neck. "It doesn't take much to be tender, Hana.." He said with another soft kiss on her shoulder.
"Actually- mm- I think you're wrong," she muttered, back arching a bit as her head tilted back. "Sometimes it's harder to be gentle than be strong..." One hand slid up to twist her fingers through his hair.
Unconsciously, she flicked a tail around to trace a line across the small of his back, shivering delicately at the sensation.
"It just comes as natural to me.." Ronin said with a soft chuckle, before putting a soft hand on her face and pressing a gentle kiss on her lips.
Hana's breath hitched a bit but she kissed him back easily, tilting her head into his touch while her ears flicked back and forth with a sudden nervous energy.
"I can see that," she murmured with a breathy chuckle when she broke away for a moment, staring at him with wide eyes. The kitsune let her hands trail down to grasp his upper arms and pulled him a little closer, leaning up for another kiss.
Ronin trailed his hands down her back and softly pressed her closer as she spoke, a soft smile on his lips. "Ssh.. Too much words." He whispered faintly, before pressing back against the kiss, one of his hands trailing up over her back to cup the back of her head.
Though talkative by nature, Hanako found herself agreeing with him. She wrapped one arm around his neck and parted her lips just slightly underneath his.
Arching her back up into him to press their chests together, she reached around to guide the hand on her back lower to brush against the base of her tails. Even though she was the one instigating the touch, it sent little shivers up her spine and a soft mewling sound spilled out of her lips.
Ronin felt the touch, on his hand, guiding her somewhere, feeling the base of her tails. Faintly recalling the same incident that had brought this about. Her sensitive tails. It seemed to be pretty obvious that this was a very sensitive spot. And thus, Ronin gently brushed the base with his thumb.
As he felt Hanako's lips opening up slightly, he followed the exemple by opening his own, gently stroking the back of her head.
A soft gasp escaped her and Hana wiggled her hips back against his hand, two of her tails curling around to brush against his legs. She let one hand drift absently up and down his back, urging him closer.
That elicited a much sharper gasp as she pressed herself flush against him, shivery tingles racing over her skin.
Ronin indeed pressed closer to her, the simple brush manged to ellicit a soft groan from his aswell. He broke the kiss and rested his forehead against Hanako's, still brushing the base of her tails. "Ready?" He asked with a soft murmur.
Hana's eyes flicked down and she bit her lip, little shivers running through her from his touches to her tails, then she looked back up and placed a rather chaste kiss to his lips. Moving slowly, she hooked one leg over his hip and pressed against him. "When you are," she said, going for a pithy tone but ending up with something decidedly more breathless.
Ronin out one hand on her hip, the other arm around her shoulders as he nodded slowly. He swallowed heavily as he pulles back slighty, before thrusting forward, letting out a ragged groan as he did, his eyes fluttering shut. He gently squeezed her hip as he opened his eyes once more.
Another little yelp, this one turning into a breathy moan as her head fell back and her eyes fluttered closed. "Gods," Hana whispered. She reached up to grab his shoulders and gave an experimental roll of her hips, hissing in pleasure as she did.
Ronin let out a muffled 'damn', as he felt Hanako's sudden movement, his hand slipped down to her tigh as he squeezed it slightly, before starting to slowly move in and out of Hanako, steadily increasing his pace however. Ronin leaned forward and attempted to seal his lips with Hanako's once more, breathing audibly.
"Ah-" Her short cry was cut off as she tilted her head into the kiss, chest rising and falling rapidly as her breath started to come in sharp little pants.
Reaching back to brace one hand on the bank of the pond, she used the leverage to boost herself up and curve her other leg around Ronin's waist, now relying on him entirely to hold her up. "Oh dear gods," she rasped out, trailing kisses down his neck to the slope of his shoulder.
With another muffled grunt, Ronin felt Hanako propping herself up in his lap and immediztly went tobsupport her with his calloused hand on her back. Gently clawing at her back.
"Hanako.." Ronin gruffly bit out her name as he felt the kisses on his neck and shoulder, the hand on her hip finding occupation on one of her buttocks and resting there, his thumb gently caressing across one of her tails near it's base. Ronin nuzzled against the side of Hanako's head, panting more laboured now.
Rocking her hips forward, Hana turned her head to focus her attentions on his neck, kissing and nipping lightly while her hands clawed at his back as she clung to him. Every touch to her tail sent another little tingle zinging up her spine and she groaned out a quiet, "Ronin..."
"Daisuke," Ronin bit out with a soft grunt, "Daisuke.. Is my real name.." He said breathlessly between soft groans and louder pants. He rested his chin on Hanako's shoulder. Shivering at the sensations, both from their connection and at the affections to his neck.
"Daisuke..." Hana repeated, a little thrill going through her that he'd shared it with her. A particular movement of her hips had her moaning and arching her back, one of her tails arcing up behind her to send droplets of water sailing through the air. "Daisuke," she said again, louder, nails biting into his back as a shudder ran through her.
Ronin, or Daisuke, answered to Hanako calling out his name with speeding up his movements underneath her ever so slightly. He also started to lift Hanako's hips up and down against his own movements, suggesting for her to proceed doing that.
He pressed his lips against her chest as she arched her back, gently trailing kisses, nibbles and nips.
Taking the hint, Hanako fell into his rhythm with a shuddering gasp, tightening her legs around his waist. Every little buck had their hips crashing together and the water was churning around them.
Panting, she reached up to cup the back of his head, tangling her fingers in his hair as his lips traced over her chest. "Gods, yes," she whispered, eyes fluttering closed with a low groan.
"Beautiful," Daisuke grunted deeply, panting heavily, hot weat trickling down his body. "You're.. Beautiful, Hana.." He grunted out slowly, still brushing his lips across her chest. His hands irregularily squeezing her buttock and clawing softly at her back.
Hana's breath hitched and her hand in his hair tightened, nails scratching at his scalp. One of her tails curled up to wrap around his wrist, encouraging his attentions to her rear.
She sort of wanted to make a quip about how he could possibly know if she was beautiful or not, but the heat building in her core and the feeling of him everywhere decidedly killed that thought. "So good, Daisuke," she whispered, tilting her head to drag her lips across his collar. "Gods, I- I'm close."
Ronin's hand was guided to her rear, finding occupation on her other buttock with another soft squeeze, he started to assist Hanako in her movements aswell, still paying the same ministrations to her chest. He felt the kitsune's hands scarping across his scalp, but it didn't hurt. It was a strange sensation and even some sort of stimulation, rather than pain.
He grunted in acknowledgement of her call. He was also pretty close. But he had to hold on untill after Hanako was pushed over the edge. So he could pull out. Finishing when still inside of Hanako was just asking for problems.
The way he was holding her, moving her against him, brought her quickly to the edge. Then she was tumbling over with a cry, the animal instinct in her making her drop her head and bite down on his shoulder as she tightened around him. Her hands clawed at his back and she mewled against his skin, riding out the aftershocks with delicate little shudders.
Ronin didn't feel the pain of the gnaw on his shoulder at all. A trickle of blood was even draw as she bit, but he didn't even notice. He was way too preoccupied with the pleasure. And as Hanako was tumbling over the edge, she tightenedon him all of a sudden, causing a breathless cry to emerge from him.
With a squeeze on her rear that was a tad harder and rougher, he pulled Hanako off, before letting out another soft groan as he finished. Outside. Thank the gods.
Gasping and shuddering, Hana collapsed back against the edge of the pond, staring up at Ronin with wide eyes. Still panting, she reached out to grab his waist and used the anchor to pull herself up a bit, trailing tired kisses down the center of his chest, heedless of the mess they'd made in the water.
"Oh gods," she whispered, nuzzling against him. "That- that was... Damn."
Ronin panted slowly, laboured, his hands still placed on her rear. Still enjoying the afterglow, he was going to be sore in the morning. And this was only the start of the second day of their trip to the seaside city of Cereni.s.
He smirked faintly, gently hugging Hanako closer in the water. "That felt amazing.." Was what he murmured to her.
Hana slipped her arms around him in a loose hug, smiling a little smugly as she leaned up to kiss the hollow of his throat.
The scent of blood hit her and she froze, eyes flicking over his shoulder and finding the bite mark she'd left. "Oh..." Frowning, she reached up to touch the spot lightly.
"I'm sorry, I didn't mean to- ahem. I didn't want to hurt you," she mumbled, tilting her head back a bit to see his face.
Ronin idly stroked her back, briefly closing his eyes, before looking down at Hanako, also just noticing now the stinging sensation on his shoulder.
Ronin shrugged slowly, chuckling slightly. "You didn't hurt me, Hanako," he smirked slowly, "I was too caught up in the moment to notice."
"Oh. Um, well...that's good, I guess." Her eyes drifted half closed and she made a little sound in her chest that was almost a purr as she arched back a bit into his touch.
"We should probably...get moving," she said lazily, feeling rather fuzzy and boneless as she let herself relax against him with a soft exhale.
Ronin put a hand on the edge, wrapping his arm around Hanako. With a low grunt, he set himself leaning against the edge with Hanako still in his arms. "Why?" He asked when he nuzzled her neck with a soft smile. "There's no hurry.." He murmured gently.
"Hmm..." Her tails flicked lazily back and forth and she let her head rest on his shoulder. "Guess not," she admitted with a small smile, pressing a quick, almost apologetic kiss to the mark she'd left on his skin.
"So I take it your honor code doesn't make you a monk," Hana teased lightly after a moment, because she really just couldn't help herself.
"It doesn't," Ronin said with a soft chuckle as he gently pressed his lips against Hanako'd forehead. "Else there wouldn't be offspring."
"Fair point." Wriggling around a bit, Hanako managed to wrap her arms around his neck and hook her legs around his waist again so she was clinging to him, inching herself up along his torso to bring their faces level.
"You called me beautiful," she noted quietly after a moment. She wasn't quite sure what she was asking- or if she was really asking anything- but she couldn't deny there was a slight curiosity in his use of the praise if he couldn't actually see her.
Ronin smirked and rather unceremoniously, placed his hand on her face. "Beauty isn't to be seen. It's to be experienced," he said with a soft chuckle.
"Oh." Giving an awkward little laugh, Hana turned her head to kiss his palm. "Well, I guess you definitely, er, experienced that then," she mumbled, blushing a little but sort of smirking too.
Ronin chuckled slowly as he lowered his hand and hugged her closer. "It certainly was an experience."
"Mhm," she agreed lazily, tucking her head into the curve of his neck and placing a soft kiss on the column of his throat. Her ears flicked instinctively when they brushed against his cheek and she pressed them back to lay against her skull in an effort to get them out of the way.
Ronin closed his eyes as he leant back against the side. "We should do this again." He muttered softly.
Hanako giggled, leaning back a bit to see his face again. "That's your line of seduction? We should do this again, really?" Sniffing primly, she turned her nose up and tossed her hair, mock offended. "I'm a lady, I need some wooing."
Ronin gently squeezed her shoulder. "Don't lie, you liked it as mich as I did." He said with a soft chuckle, before pressing a gentle kiss on her cheek. "But I can woo, if you want to be wooed."
"I never said I didn't like it." She smiled when he kissed her cheek, catching at his wrist and bring his fingers to her lips so he could feel it. "But I have to say, I'm kinda interested about what you wooing looks like."
"Be sure to tell me what I look like," he chuckled playfully, "because I won't be able to see it."
Hana snorted and rolled her eyes, pressing a kiss to the side of his neck and slowly working her way down to his collar. Sighing softly, she let her legs slide down from around his waist to settle her feet on the bottom of the pond.
"Come on," she said, moving toward the bank. "Sun's climbing, we really should get going."
Ronin nodded slowly as he stood up aswell, pulling.himself out of the pond and offering a hand for Hanako.
She took his hand and sprang out, shaking water off like a canine, ears and tails flicking every which way. "Clothes," she muttered, looking around. "Where did I- ah!"
Letting go of his hand, Hana moved over to the pile of fabric she'd abandoned by the side of the pond and set about getting dressed.
Ronin rubbed the back of his head awkwardly. Didn't think this one through.
One of the curses of being blind. You couldn't find your own clothes if you forgot where you put them.
Fully dressed, Hanako turned to Ronin, ready to move off- then stilled, arching an eyebrow while a smirk quirked up one corner of her mouth.
"Here." She moved forward and grabbed his clothes from where he'd left them, then turned and offered them to him. "Searching for these?"
"As a matter of fact, I was." He took the clothes and slodly started to put them on again.
After a short while, he adjusted the straps of his katana, his sleeveless coat and the blindfold around his head, nodding slowly.
"Alright then." Hana hesitated a moment, then took his hand and started making her way out of the grove and back toward the road. She didn't really think he needed the touch for guidance, but she enjoyed the contact.
Ronin felt her hand taking his. He frowned and almost wanted to explain again that her footsteps were sufficient. But he knew she knew that.
So it was another reason.
When he didn't protest the contact, Hana smiled slightly and her steps lightened just a bit as she led them out into the road and started down if. She even began humming absently under her breath.
Roninvarched an eyebrow as he heard Hanako humming the tune. It sounded familiar. Slowly, he started to pick in on ot.
Surprised, Hana glanced at him and her humming faltered for a moment. Then she smiled and started to sing softly under her breath. She honestly didn't know how she knew the song- it was one of her vague memories from before Tobin had found her. Not quite a lullaby, too quick for that, but soft enough that the melody was obviously meant to please and soothe.
Ronin slirked slowky as he fell in with the song with a deep, but very soft voice.
Delighted, Hanako her voice rise and fall in a simple little harmony, giving Ronin's hand a quick squeeze without thinking. After a minute or so, she started laughing happily and spun around on the road to face him, beaming.
"Where'd you learn that song?" she asked, still grinning and bouncing a little on the balls of her feet.
"Hm?" He chuckled slowly, "Cassie taught me."
With another little laugh, Hana rocked onto her toes to press a kiss to his cheek before turning around to continue walking again. "You really like kids, huh?" she noted, smiling softly.
Ronin chuckled at the kiss. "Yes. For some reason, I am very good with them. Perhaps because I'm patient?" He asked with a soft smirk. He was patient. Very patient.
She sniffed, mock offended. "If that was a dig at me, I do not appreciate it," she informed him loftily. Voice dropping to a grumble, she added petulantly, without thinking, "If you like kids so much I'm surprised you didn't give more of an effort to knock me up."
Ronin frowned. "I didn't mean to." He arched an eyebrow and.glanced at Hanako, trying to resist the heat running to his face and ears. "I thought..-" He put a hand on Hanako's shoulder, "did you want children?"
"What-?"
Her face went red and she shook her head from side to side quickly. "Oh gods no! I was kidding! I'm way to irresponsible for kits!"
Staring at him with wide eyes, she squeaked out, "Did- did you actually-? I mean...ahem."
"I was actually planning on explaining to you why we shouldn't have children." He arched an eyebrow, putting both his hands on.her shoulders, sighing. "Don't make these jokes. I'm too responsible to just make you pregnant. You hadme worried."
Still blushing, Hana mumbled, "Sorry." She had a bad habit of making a joke out of everything, even when she knew she shouldn't.
By way of apology, she twisted her head slightly to kiss his wrist, nuzzling her nose against the hand on her shoulder. His words echoed in her head though and she looked at him sidelong.
Why they shouldn't have children. She honestly hadn't even been thinking about that- it was lucky he had been, apparently. But now her curiosity was piqued. She knew she didn't want kits, at least not any time soon. But she was rather intrigued that he seemed to share the opinion. Her previous partners hadn't seemed to care one way or another if she wound up pregnant.
Trying to put the thought from her mind, she murmured softly, "Come on, let's keep moving. We've got a lot of ground to cover."
"Just.. Try not to, next time. You make me worry." He said with a soft smile, before nodding. "Lead the way."
Keeping her hand in his, Hanako set off again, a bit more sedately than before. It didn't take long for the bounce to reassert itself in her step though.
She glanced at a mile marker on the side of the narrow road, weathered and crooked but still legible, and said brightly, "Two miles to the next town."
Ronin nodded slowly. "Hopefully, they have an inn." He noted with a soft smile.
"I'm sure they will," Hana chirped, tails swaying happily behind her as they walked. "Let's see... If I remember right, it's this little town- think it's called Bright Cove or something- then another about a day's walk north, then another night of camping, then we're in Cerenis."
"So.. Three days of travelling?" Ronin nodded, putting a hand on Hanako's.
"Should be, long as we don't run into any trouble," she said brightly, lacing her fingers through his.
Ronin squeezed her hand. "Knowing my luck.." He chuckled slowly. After a shortbmoment he looked at her
"Daisuke Shizuka..." He looked at Hanako. "Please. Call me Daisuke.."
She paused a moment, glancing up at him, then rocked onto her toes to kiss his cheek. "Only if you call me Hana," she said quietly, playfully. Then her tone softened and she added, "Daisuke."
"Didn't I do that before?" He said with a chuckle, "I'll keep it in mind, Hana."
"Mm. Just making sure it wasn't strictly a heat of the moment thing," Hana replied, bumping his shoulder lightly.
After a moment, she said a little softer, "I like Daisuke. Why don't you use it?"
Ronin smiled, "it originally was." He admitted with a soft chuckle. "But I'll stick to it." He squeezed Hanako's hand softly. "I only allow the people closest to me to call me that.. I technically don't have a first, or last name."
She looked up at him, a little line forming between her eyebrows. "Because of the whole...outcast thing," she ventured slowly, her grip on his hand tightening slightly without her quite realizing it.
"Indeed. So I took the name of Ronin, outlaw, upon me." He said with a sad smile, yet, he shrugged. "I have few regrets. So. That is a plus."
"Hmm. Well that's good." Seeing the edges of the town coming up, Hana paused a moment and swung around in front of him, stretching up on her toes and cupping his face in her hands to kiss him softly.
Settling back, she murmured with a small smile. "I hope you don't regret me, Daisuke Shizuka."
Ronin ran a soft hand across her cheek as they kissed, smiling softly.
"I'll make sure not to." He said with a soft chuckle.
Hana made a happy little "Mm..." sound and tugged on his hand as they came up on the edge of the town. "C'mon, let's find an inn," she chirped, bounce back in her step as she looked at the buildings around them, ears perked curiously.
He nodded slowly. "That sounds like a plan." He said with a soft smile as he was tugged along.
Bright Cove was a fairly sleepily little town, and they didn't pass many people on their way down the main road. Those they did pass stared a bit, but Hana supposed that wasn't really surprising.
Finding a sign that proclaimed the largest building was an inn and tavern, she pulled Ronin behind her up to the door and poked her head inside.
Her nose wrinkled at the heavy smell of alcohol and too many people, but... "Well, it's better than nothing," she murmured quietly to her companion, slipping inside.
Ronin curled his nose as they stepped inside, putting an arm around Hanako's shoulder and pulling her closer to him protectivly.
She was a little startled by the gesture, but maybe just a tiny bit pleased, too. Moving toward the man who seemed to be running the establishment, Hana let her ears and tails melt away as she took human form and offered her best smile.
"Hello," she greeted pleasantly, drawing the man's attention. "Do you have a room free?"
The innkeeper looked them up and down. "Depends. You got money to pay for one?"
"Yes. We do." Ronin fell in, pulling up a coinpurse from his belt.
The innkeeper grunted in acknowledgement and nodded. "Twelve coppers for the night, includes two meals. Only rooms we got left have just the one bed- but I doubt that's a problem." His eyes skimmed over Hanako meaningfully, then flicked to Ronin, obviously not realizing that the taller warrior couldn't see his look.
The kitsune rolled her eyes. She was actually- unfortunately- used to being mistaken for some sort of exotic whore or concubine. "Yes, that's fine, thanks," she said, bored, reaching for the coinpurse so she could count out the appropriate amount.
Not that she thought Ronin wasn't capable of doing it himself, but...she figured it was better to be safe.
Ronin was indeed quite unaware of the look. He let Hanako indeed take the purse and pay the appropriate amount. Again one bed. It seemed fate was really testing his patience.
Then again, trusting Hanako, it didn't seem half as bad as before. And well, they had intercourse earlier on, so, sleeping together wasn't even the worst.
Thanking the man again, Hana took Ronin's hand and pulled him up the stairs to the room he'd directed them to. Pushing the door open, she gave a little squeal of happiness and flung herself onto the bed.
"Gods, real bed. So nice," she purred. Sitting up, she kicked her legs aimlessly and looked at Ronin. "What do you say to dropping the supplies and heading downstairs to see what they have to eat?"
Ronin chuckled at the squeel. "I stand by my point of you being adorable." He said as he sat down, putting the backpack down on the bed. "That sounds like a plan." he said with a chuckle.
"Hmm..." Smirking, Hana crawled over to wrap her arms around his shoulder, pressing herself against his arm and planting a quick kiss on his cheek. "Y'know, I think I don't mind adorable so much any more."
Ronin chuckled slowly, turning to return a soft kiss on her forehead. "Now I have no way of teasing you.." He murmured with a chuckle.
She snorted softly. "Somehow I think you'll figure something out."
Bouncing suddenly to her feet, she took his hand again lightly. "C'mon, let's go eat. I'm starving!"
"I'll try," Ronin chuckled as he heard the kitsune jumping up again, feeling her hand on his, he nodded slowly, standing up.
Hana wrinkled her nose at him. "Don't go putting too much effort into it. Mischief is my job," she quipped, leading him back out of the room and down the stairs into the tavern proper.
Again, alcohol, food, human sweat, and a few other scents she didn't really want to analyze swamped her senses. She sneezed a few times, searching for some remotely quiet corner of the room.
"For a small town, this place is packed," she muttered.
Ronin frowned. "It sure sounds that way.." He said as he leaned back into his seat, folding his hands behind his neck.
Hana was jumpy, not used to or comfortable with crowds. Eventually, she managed to hail one of the girls who seemed to be serving food.
"What can I getcha?" she asked, giving Ronin a quick double take before her expression smoothed into a bored mask. Hana figured she'd seen her fair share of unique customers.
"Anything spicy," she replied promptly, fidgeting in her seat.
Nodding, the barmaid looked to Ronin. "And you?"
Ronin looked up at the voice, then back at Hanako, "I'll have what she's having," he fell in, "And two mugs of ale, please." He was absolutely positive Hanako wanted a mug aswell.
The woman nodded and waltzed off to get their orders.
Propping her elbows on the table and resting her chin in her hands, Hana asked teasingly, "You trying to get me drunk, Daisuke?"
"I don't know. Do you want me to?" He asked with a soft chuckle.
She giggled. "You're welcome to try, but it'll probably take more alcohol than this place has in stock," she warned. Her bare foot slid forward under the table to nudge his leg playfully as she glanced around.
"Gods, I hope that girl brings our food soon." Hana glanced at him, tilting her head. "Didn't peg you as a lover of hot foods, by the way."
Ronin chuckled. "Big talk. For an adorable powerful being of fire and arcane arts." He said with a low chuckle. "I drink you under the table." He grinned at her.
He nodded at her statement, however, "Yes. I'm also quite hungry." He glanced at Hanako. "I'm not."
Hana pulled a face, then realized he couldn't see it and informed him, "I'm rolling my eyes at you." Smiling wickedly, she added, "I highly doubt you could drink me under anything, but I'd like to see you try."
Her head tilted to the side. "Then why'd you order what I had?" she asked, laughing. "If you don't like spicy, it doesn't make much sense."
"Easily." Ronin chuckled, grinning at Hanako. The poor soul didn't even know what he was getting himself into.
He shook his head. "I didn't know the menu, nor did I say I dislike it. I'm curious." He noted with a soft shrug.
Noticing the serving girl approaching with a tray of food, Hana giggled and said, "Then you're in luck."
The woman slid two bowls in front of them, some sort of stew that smelled delightfully of spices and perhaps some sort of beef. "Thanks," the kitsune said with a smile as she put two mugs of ale onto the table as well. "Oh, and keep those coming."
As she walked away, Hana grinned at Ronin, nudging food and drink closer to him. "You're so on."
Ronin smirked as his hand found the first mug, "bottoms up." He said as he downed the first mug, before starting to eat.
Hana quirked an eyebrow and toasted him, though she knew he couldn't see it, before downing her own drink. Then she tucked into her food with gusto, humming delightedly.
"Gods, I didn't even realize how hungry I was," she muttered.
"Pretty good." Ronin muttered as he ate, glancing over at Hanako.
"Good," she laughed quietly. "Guilty pleasure of mine I guess, spicy foods."
The serving girl came back around to put two more mugs in front of them then moved away again. Hana nudged Ronin's drink toward him and took her own. "Number two." She downed it.
"Hm. Spicy isn't a taste. It's a feeling," Ronin chuckled slowly, "it's pain." He said as he nodded, taking his own drink and downing it as fast as it was given to him.
Hana's eyebrows went up. "Are you implying I'm a masochist?" she asked lightly, taking a few more bites of her food.
Two more mugs were slid onto the table.
"I'm implying nothing." Ronin chuckled slowly as he took the other cup. "Third down." He said, before downing the entire drink.
"Cheers." Hana sipped at her drink, but she still finished it quickly. "Sure you don't wanna start taking it easy there?" she teased as the barmaid once again slid drinks onto their table, her expression rather incredulous.
"This is nothing!" He exclaimed, just a tad louder than he would originally intent, it seem to have a little bit of influence, at least. He grabbed the fourth drink and downed it in one go again, putting the cup on the table again. "Easy."
Chuckling, Hana downed drink number four. "Hey, it's gonna be your hangover in the morning, not mine," she said lightly.
The serving girl passed by again. Another drink.
"Less talking.. More.. Drinking." Ronin noted, grabbing his drink. "Great warriors don't get hangovers!" He snerked dryly and laughed loudly.
"Uh-huh," Hana said skeptically, completely unconvinced. She was just starting to get a warm tingly feeling in her stomach from the drink. "Well, if you pass out I'm not hauling you up those stairs."
"Winner carries the loser, no sweat." Ronin blurted out with a smirk, pushing aside his plate as he was done.
Mug number six arrived and Hana chuckled, shaking her head. "Whatever you say, oh great warrior," she muttered, smirking, as she downed her drink.
"You're not dzrinking it!" Ronin claimed loudly. "There ish the reashon you are winnin'!" He grabbed his cup and downed it again.
"Oh gods." She couldn't help laughing, signaling to the approaching barmaid that they'd had enough. "Alright, big guy, I think that's enough for one night. C'mon." She stood and took his arm, trying to tug him away from the table.
"Being of fire and magic, remember?" she chuckled as she tried to get him to his feet. "Little alcohol doesn't bother me."
"I am!" He took a deep breath. "A great- warrior!" He glanced in Hanako's direction as he felt the tug on his arm. "What'sh wrong?" He looked at Hanako with a stupid look on his face. "Liesh and shlander." He murmured as he slowly got to his feet.
"Yes, yes," Hana soothed, patting his arm. "A great warrior, I know. Come on, Daisuke, let's get to bed." Figuring he would protest that he was just fine- when he obviously wasn't- she added, "I'm tired."
Ronin seemed to immediatly zip it when she said she was tired, he nodded slowly, still wobbly and drunk. "Sh-shure.. Help me get there.."
She chuckled again, ducking under his arm so he could lean on her as she led him out of the tavern and up to their room.
"Gods, you are so going to regret all those drinks in the morning," she muttered as she pushed the door open.
"Great warriorsh.." He muttered as he trudged along with Hanako. He heard her pushing the door open, thus realised they were in their room. He faintly put a hand on her shoulder and pulled her from underneath his arm, stumbling forward and landing half on the bed.
Hana sighed and moved forward to perch on the edge of the bed, pushing at his shoulder lightly in an attempt to get him to lay down. "Alright, sleep it off," she murmured, letting her hand move to rub circles absently over his back.
With a rather unceremonious groan and equally majestic movements, Ronin used only his feet to push himself fully on the bed, the katana clicking of his belt.
He wrapped an arm around Hanako's waist and pulled her into a soft hug, cuddling her closely.
She gave a small squeak at being grabbed, then relaxed and nuzzled into him, smiling softly. "Night, Daisuke," she murmured, kissing his cheek as she let her eyes drift closed.
He only returned a silent snore as greeting, softly hugging her tighter as she spoke.
Hana chuckled again and tucked her head up under his chin, letting herself drift off.
Ronin woke with a low groan, noticing Hanako in his arms, he kept quiet. He didn't want to wake her.
His eyes fluttered shut again at the sudden influx of light, his head hurting quite badly.
Drowsily coming around, Hana snuggled closer to Ronin and swung her leg up over his hip, still half-asleep.
The quiet groan dragged her a little closer to consciousness and her eyes opened to little slits. "You up then?" she asked quietly, yawning.
He put a soft finger on Hanako's lips, "just sleep," he muttered. he was going to try doing the same. The headache was getting too bad.
She smirked. "Told you that you were gonna regret those drinks," she mumbled against his finger. One of her hands slid up to rest against the side of his face, fingers rubbing at his temples in an effort to relieve some of the headache she knew he must have.
"I knew you'd say that," was what he whispered in response, pressing a soft kiss on her forehead. The rubbing on his temple managed to elicit a soft murmur of approval from Ronin, before he put a soft hand on the leg around his hip. "Is this an invitation, Hana?"
"Hm?" She tilted her head at him, smiling wickedly. "Well, I suppose it could be. If you're feeling up to it."
Shrugging, she added carelessly, "Though I'd be surprised if you were, honestly, great warrior or not."
Ronin softly stroked the leg. "You won yesterday.. So you need a reward," he murmured softly. "Is that a challenge?" His lips twitched upwards in a soft smirk.
"Maybe." Still smirking, Hana leaned forward to kiss and nip lightly at his neck, hooking her leg more securely over his hip.
Ronin murmured something inaudible under his breath, running from her leg up to her rear softly. Trailing to the small of her back, only to find that the sensitive base of her tails were missing. "Human form?" He inquired as he softly pressed forward against her.
((Implication or add details?))
[Mm...let's give detail a shot.]
Hana shivered at the touch, nodding. "Mhm. That spot's...still pretty sensitive though," she murmured, trailing light kisses down his neck to his collar, letting her hand drift around to his back.
"Noted," he remarked softly as he slowly rubbed his hand across the same spot, his hand cupped the back of her head as he felt the soft kisses on his collar.
He pressed his own hips closer to Hanako's at the same time, the bulge in his pants softly rubbing against her sex.
((Alrighty. You know to pm me when you get uncomfortable ^^))
[Got it! (:]
Hana gave a pleased little hum against his skin that turned into a soft moan. She arched her back, pressing her hips closer against his as her eyes fluttered closed.
Trailing the hand on his back over to his side lightly, she eventually slid her fingers to her own leg and tugged at the hem of her kimono, pulling it higher.
And Ronin pulled it even a tad higher after Hanako did, his fingers brushing back against the spot just above her rear. His other hand lowered from her head to rest on her shoulder. "I'm going to need some help with this," he murmured as he softly pushed his bulge against her crotch again.
"Mmm." She pulled at the hem of his pants, shivering as she was caught between the stimulation to her back and between her legs. "I think I can manage that," she murmured, leaning up to nip lightly at his ear.
Ronin let out a soft groan as his pants was pulled down, his member 'popping' out. He let out a ragged pant as pressed a kiss in Hana's neck, his hand on her shoulder slipping into the kimono and pealing it down from her shoulders delicatly.
Hana growled softly, pressing her hips forward to grind herself against him with a soft moan as she shrugged out of her clothes.
She ran her hands under his shirt and up his chest, peppering kisses along his neck and shoulder.
Ronin grunted softly as Hanako was gyrating against him. One of his hands found occupation on her chest, the other softly trailing down her back to grip the hem of her underwear, gently peeling it down from her hips.
Hanako wriggled around to make getting out of her undergarments easier, hissing in a sharp breath at the way that brought their hips together.
She arched her back slightly, pressing her chest up against him and moaning quietly, eyes fluttering. "Gods, Daisuke..."
Ronin smirked faintly as he slowly rubbed his member against Hanako, teasing her for a short while.
He put his hand on Hana's behind as he slowly pressed forward, slipping himself inside of her, softly groaning at the sensation, panting once he was inside.
"Oh..." Hana groaned and dropped her head onto his shoulder, breath coming raggedly. She grabbed at his waist and bucked her hips forward gently, giving a soft whimper at the sensation.
Ronin let out a soft pant, "Hana," he murmured as his grip on her rear tightened slightly when she bucked forward against him, "damn." He hissed softly between his teeth.
"Daisuke." She used her leg hooked over his hip to roll them over so she was perched above him, dipping her head down to catch his lips in a searing kiss as she did.
He put both his hands on her buttocks and squeezed them softly, gently pressing back against the kiss, opening his lips for Hanako.
Hana purred into the kiss, flicking her tongue out to trace the outline of his lips as she rocked her hips against him, shuddering delicately. Her hands moved to grip his upper arms and she repeated the motion, grinding their hips together with a sharp little moan.
Ronin softly slid his tongue out into Hana's mouth, gently trailing the inside, his breath still smelled and tasted of alcohol, however.
With soft squeezes in her buttocks, Ronin slowly guided Hanako up and down, letting out soft groans as he did.
She let the kiss linger for several long moments as she fell into a rhythm with her hips, then trailed her mouth along the edge of his jaw to his neck where she latched on, nipping and licking.
Reaching back with one hand, Hana gripped his wrist and guided one of his hands up to the small of her back, moaning softly at the touch to sensitive skin.
Ronin let out soft groans and whimpers at the ministrations paid to his neck. As Hanako got into rythm, he slowly started to thrust upwards against her aswell, grunting deeply as he did.
A grip on his hand guided him to the small of her back, remembering how sensitive she was there, he slowly started to stroke the spot.
"A-ah!" Hana threw her head back and continued to rock against him, picking up her pace slightly as she encouraged his attentions to the small of her back with soft little gasps and moans.
Ronin took a hold of her hip and sat up slowly, still having one hand on the small of her back. He pressed his mouth against Hanako's and slowly pushed her down on her back, readjusting the grip on her hip to her shoulder, still softly stroking the small of her back.
And, when Hanako was sprawled infront of him, he slowly started to pick up his pace.
Hana gave a little noise of surprise when he started to push her down onto the bed, but she didn't protest. As he picked up his pace she arched against him, eyes fluttering.
"Daisuke," she crooned, sliding her hands up to grip his shoulders, then cupped his neck as she parted her lips against his.
"Hana," he muttered in response with soft pants and muffled grunts, gradually picking up the pace of his thrusting, parting his lips as she pressed hers against his.
A keening moan rose up in her throat and Hanako broke the kiss to throw her head back, panting sharply as she bucked her hips up to meet his thrusts. "Oh gods," she whimpered, nails digging into his skin as her hands clenched. "Gods, Daisuke, yes."
"Hana.." He grunted slowly, "Hana.." He murmured her name again as he took deep and heated pants, not minding the nails that were digging into his skin, he pressed himself down to kiss and nip at her throat.
Breathing raggedly, Hana moved one of her hands up to tangle in his hair and let him nurse at her throat for a moment before she became impatient and pulled him up to catch his lips heatedly.
With a hot breath, his face was pulled up. He pressed his lips against Hanako's, picking up his pace ever so slightly.
Hana whined needily into the kiss, moving her hips against his. She was getting close, she could feel the tension coiling tight, heat building between them. She threw her legs around his waist and arched her back, clutching at his back and shoulders.
Ronin felt the legs grasping around his waist, he put both hands down. Hana's head betwen them and let out muffled growls and grunts. He felt the tension building up in him and let out another slow groan.
Growling and gasping softly, Hana used her leverage around his waist to pull him against her with more force. Panting between sharp little moans, she turned head and placed a rather soft, tender kiss on his wrist, her rhythm stuttering as she drew closer to the edge.
He clawed at the sheets as he grit his teeth, before letting out a slow breath. He tilted his head forward as he relentlessly thrusted forward, too heated to actually follow a solid pattern, so staying in rythm with Hanako was just completely impossible.
Their erratic pace only pushed Hana closer to her peak and she gave a desperate little mew, grabbing at Ronin's upper arms and gripping hard enough for her nails to bite into skin.
"Gods, Daisuke," she groaned, panting. "Close. I'm so close- please."
Ronin let out a loud growl of pleasure, his ears twitching at the plea. He angled himself a.bit, trying to find the sensitive spot he had found the first time they had intercourse. Because he was close as well. Pretty damn close. Still letting out heated grunts and growls, panting loudly as he was practically ramming himself inside of her.
Sweat glistened on his skin as he grit his teeth, desperatly trying to keep on for as long as he could.
The little shift and suddenly he was hitting that perfect spot with every thrust. Hana threw her head back and keened, eyes clenching shut as she writhed underneath him, panting out curses and urges for him to keep going in between sharp breaths.
"G-gods-!" With an animal moan her back arched and she saw stars, his name spilling from her lips in a sharp, loud cry.
And the urges had quite the effect. Letting out the same growls and grunts as he kept slamming against Hanako at a fast, strong and steady pace. It was only when he heard his name blisfully cried out that a stagger was felt in his movements. He groaned Hana's name out as he made another few, slower, but forceful thrusts, before completely pulling out, shooting white trails of semen over her body, even reaching her face.
He let out a shuddering moan as he still hung above Hanako.
Hana simply lay there, panting, uncaring of the mess he made of her as she just tried to get her breath back. Weakly, she reached up and curved her arms around his neck, pulling him down to her to seal her lips over his.
Ronin was pulled down, still panting heavily, pressing a soft kiss against Hanako but breaking it rather quickly, still trying to catch his own breath.
She trailed tired kisses down his neck to nurse at his throat, panting. "I think...we should probably call for a bath," she muttered eventually, giving a breathless chuckle.
"That would be a good idea," he murmured between pants, sitting up slowly with Hanako in his arms.
"Mm." Hana nuzzled her nose against his cheek, then pressed a kiss there. "Think you could manage that? It may take some work for me to be...presentable."
Ronin smirked faintly, putting his hand on his sword, "that bad, eh?" He asked as he stood up, finding the door with the katana in his hand. "Sorry about that."
She chuckled, shaking her head at him, and calling teasingly, "You don't need to look so proud of yourself," as he left the room.
Ronin smirked as he descended the stairs, walking over to the counter and leaning forward on it, "do you provide baths?" He inquired, hearing the breathing of someone present, assuming it was the warden.
As Ronin left, Hana slipped off the bed and looked down at herself, wrinkling her nose a bit. She searched the room briefly and found a blanket tucked away under the bed, she assumed for colder nights.
Shrugging, she used it as a towel in an attempt to get most of the mess off herself. Hopeful Ronin's efforts to procure a bath would go well, because she still felt...odd.
Ronin knocked on the door with a slow sigh, before walking in, carrying a large kettle filled with water. "This is what I got," he murmured. Not really the best, but at least it was something.
Hana glanced up and smiled at the promise of water. Not as good as a proper bath, but definitely better than nothing. "Thanks," she chirped, skipping over to him to take the kettle and setting it down.
Not having many options, she simply used her hands to splash water over her body and used the clean spots on the spare blankets to dab herself off.
"There, all yours," she proclaimed, straightening up and moving to the bed to collect her clothes.
Ronin nodded slowly as he undressed again, splashing the water on himself and washing himself down. "What to dry with," he murmured to himself as he frowned.
"Here." Kimono half on, Hana grabbed the blanket from the bed and turned to him. "We're not going to be staying here another night, may as well."
She crossed to stand in front of him and started patting him dry without permission, rocking onto her toes to properly reach his chest and shoulders.
Ronin nodded and extended his hand to grab the blanket, so he was at least surprised when Hanako started to dry him off.
He smriked slowly as he lowered his hand, pressing a quick kiss on Hanako's lips as he started to dress again.
She hummed happily into the kiss, rubbing the blanket down over his torso to finish drying him off and letting her touch slip teasingly low before bringing her hands back up and tossing the makeshift towel away.
Whirling away from him, Hana wriggled a bit to get properly back into her kimono, tugging the hem so it laid properly.
Ronin let out a soft chuckle at the teasingly low touch. "We just got cleaned ," he said as he strapped his katana to his waist tightly.
"Hm?" Hana glanced at him with wide eyes and said innocently, "I have no idea what you mean." Crossing to stand in front of him, she leaned up to press a soft kiss just below his ear and added quietly, "And I'm not sure I like the implication. What must you think of me?"
Ronin chuckled slowly. "You mischievous little vixen," he murmured as he put an arm around her shoulders in a soft embrace, pulling back slightly and pressing a gentle, lingering kiss on her lips. Breaking it momentarily, "if only this damn headache would at least soften.."
"Well I am a fox," Hana chuckled. Then she winced guiltily, biting her lip and looking up at his face. "Damn, I actually forgot about that. Sorry." She ran her thumb over his cheek softly. "Want me to get some water or something?"
Having never experienced a hangover herself, she wasn't sure how to go about curing one.
"You don't have to," he answered with a soft smile. "Let's just get back on the road. Teaches me to try having a drinking contest with a magical fox."
Laughing, completely unabashed, Hana said brightly, "I did warn you." She flitted about the room, gather up their pack before returning to him. "Alright, let's get out of here and be on our way."
"And I did not heed said warning. Ignorance on my part," he snerked with a faint grin as he pushed the door open again.
Hana giggled as she tripped lightly down the stairs. "I dunno. It was kinda funny- you're cute when you're drunk," she teased, moving toward the door to the inn.
At that, Ronin stopped and pressed a hand on her shoulder. "I am not cute. Ever," he said as he smirked. "That is your job."
She giggled again, slipping out onto the main road of the town and twisting to grab his hand, lacing her fingers through his. "Hmm, but it gets tiring being cute all the time. It's nice to share the burden."
Ronin shook his head as he walked alongside Hanako. "I am not cute. Perhaps handsome or attractive. But certainly not cute." He replied with an arched eyebrow.
"You can be both," Hana persisted, rather enjoying this particular train of taunting. As they got closer to the edge of the little town, she let her human form slip into her halfling one, sighing with relief as she was finally able to move her ears independently. For some reason that was the thing that bugged her most about being human.
Ronin let out a deep sigh, deciding not to persue it further. His ears twitched as he noticed a slight change in her steps."Different form?" He inquired with an arched eyebrow.
"Mhm." She swished a tail around to brush against his side. "I'm most comfortable in this one. I mean, full animal is nice too, but a little overwhelming after a while."
Ronin nodded slowly. "I never heard you in your full animal form. I'm starting to rzcognise your human form and your.. Hybrid form?"
"Hybrid's as good a word as any," Hana said with a nod.
They were just leaving the town now, and she glanced over her shoulder, thinking. "Do you want to hear the fox? No one's really around, so I probably won't cause a panic."
Ronin shook his head. "Perhaps more secluded. We are still on a main road."
Decent point. "Alright," she said with an easy shrug, drifting a little closer to him and reaching to take his hand again. "If I remember right, we should be able to follow this road most of the way to Cerenis. I think maybe half a day's walk once we switch."
Ronin tangled his fingers with hers, nodding slowly. "Sounds good."
Humming a quiet acknowledgement, Hana let her mind wander. A thought that had been niggling at the back of her mind bounced to the forefront and she glanced up at Ronin.
"Hey, um... Can I ask something and you'll answer honestly?"
Ronin glanced down at her. "Have I ever not?" He asked with a gentle smile.
She squeezed his hand and pointed out lightly, "Well, I don't think so, but I have no real proof." Taking a breath, she sobered a bit and murmured hesitantly, "If we can- y'know, break this bond or whatever... What would you do? Just go off on your own again?"
Ronin arched an eyebrow, "I haven't tought about it, honestly," he smiled. "Do you want to stay with me?"
"Well...there are certainly worse traveling companions," Hana muttered, ducking her head slightly. "I suppose I...wouldn't mind it. If you'd let me."
Ronin nodded. "Now you say that, without the 'I don't give a damn' attitude." He said with a chuckle.
She turned her head to look at him and wrinkled her nose. "That an order, oh great warrior?"
"I'd love to hear it," Ronin said with a soft chuckle.
"Fine." She huffed, falling silent for a moment, then said softly, "I'd...like to stay with you, for a while at least. If you'd have me."
She wasn't used to having genuine emotion so easy to read in her voice, and didn't quite know if she liked it.
"That wasn't so hard, was it?" Ronin said, putting a gentle hand on Hanako's shoulder, squeezing it gently. "And ofcourse I'd want that."
Hana made a face. "Wasn't hard for you, you didn't have to say it." But she was smiling softly, and she reached up to guide his hand on her shoulder to her lips for a moment.
"Tell me something," she said abruptly, glancing up at him. "Something I don't know about you."
Ronin frowned, looking down at Kiara, "err.. I absolutely abhor the taste of bananas?"
"Really?" She laughed lightly. "That's...such a random flavor to dislike." Still giggling, she looped her arm through his and tucked herself closer to his side as they walked.
"Still," he shook his head, "I hate it." He said as he wrinkled his nose.
Hana giggled again, twisting her head to press a kiss to his shoulder. "Adorable," she noted, eyes twinkling.
Ronin snorted lowly and looked down in her direction. "I am not adorable," he said with a slow sigh.
"You are," she retorted, nuzzling into his side. "Underneath all the big tough warrior-ness, you are."
Ronin let out an annoyed sigh. "Nevermind," he answered with a soft grunt, deciding not to persue the matter further.
Taking that as a victory, Hana purred happily and let her hand trail down his arm to lace their fingers together. "You know, I could get used to this," she said brightly, swinging their joined hands lightly.
"I had a feeling you would," Ronin said, still a teensy bit cranky about her so-called victory over him just now, then again. It didn't really get to him. And Hanako was still Hanako. An ancient fox spirit that was as playful as mischievous.
"You love it," Hana teased, rocking up onto her toes to kiss his cheek.
Her eyes lit on a wagon coming down the road toward them and she tugged his hand lightly, pulling him slightly to the side so they could let it pass.
Ronin let out a soft chuckle as he turned his head slightly, putting a quick peck on her lips. "No comment," he replied with a chuckle, before following her gesture to let the wagon pass.
"I will take that as agreement," she informed him, smiling for the kiss.
To her surprise, instead of just passing by, the wagon slowed as it neared them. The driver, a graying man with a rather round belly, waved a hand to hail them. "Hello there! Don't suppose you could help an old man out?"
Normally Hana would have just nodded and asked what he wanted, but recent experience made her a bit wary. "What's the trouble?" she called back, tucking herself ever so slightly closer to Ronin's side.
Ronin nodded slowly, his ears twitching at Hanako's voice, he wanted to ask the same, but she beat him to it. He noticed the gesture from Hanako, but didn't answer to it, looking up at the voice, trusting her judgement.
"Could you tell me how far it is to the next town? The mile markers are down a ways back on this road."
"Oh." Hana relaxed, smiling at him. "Just down the road, you're almost there," she said brightly.
Again. Hanako beat him to it, he softly squeezed her hand as she answered the question, befire turning around slowly starting to walk again.
The kitsune waved to the man as they continued on their way, casting curious glances at the wagon.
"Wonder if he's a trader or something," she mused aloud.
"Could be," Ronin shrugged slowly, "why don't you go ask him?"
Hana shrugged. "Well, I don't really need anything, so why bother? He seems to be pretty happily on his way."
She couldn't help glancing back at the wagon though. That was an awful large bed for one older trader...
Ronin nodded slowly, shrugging. "Perhaps you want to know what goods he peddles?"
"Hmm..." She frowned after the wagon, then shook herself. "No. Not important. I just had a funny feeling for a second, that's all."
Hanako tightened her grip on his hand slightly and set off again, more determined.
Ronin arched an eyebrow, "you sure?" He asked with a soft smile.
"Yeah. I'm sure." She smiled and bumped against his side lightly. "Thought I smelled magic, but- must have just been this bond thing screwing with my senses or something." That had been happening the past few days, but subtly enough that she hadn't really been worried.
Ronin arched an eyebrow, "hold on." He opened stopped in his tracks and turned to the wagon, opening his clairvoyance wide.
"Ah- okay." Hana stopped and turned to look at him, arching her eyebrows in puzzlement. "What...are you doing, exactly?"
"Checking out the magic you smelled," Ronin stated as he took a deep breath. "It's nothing special, just some enchanted weaponry." He murmured slowly, "interesting."
He glanced at Hanako, "think you can catch up to him?"
"If you want me to," she replied easily, eyes flicking from him to the retreating wagon. "Why? Think the weapons would be useful?"
He shook his head. "I don't need weaponry, Hanryo, however," he squeezed the hilt of his katana. "Needs some sharpening up and the glyphs need to be etched out. Anyone selling this kind of weaponry is bound to know the basics."
"Let's go then." She started to walk, then paused. "Actually- it'd be faster if you rode."
Not bothering to explain, she let another shift wash over her, taking her animal form. Though definitely a fox in shape, she was easily the size of a horse, plenty big enough to ride.
Crouching down, she nosed Ronin's side. "Climb on then."
"Rode?" He asked, before he felt a nose against his side, putting his hand on her furry flank. "This seems like a role reversal to me," he chuckled as he pulled himself ontop of Hanako, "except for this morning."
Hana snorted. "Believe me, next chance we get the roles will be back in order," she assured him sweetly, starting after the wagon with a few easy steps to let him adjust to her gate before she broke into a lope.
"Should I be quivering in anticipation or just scared?" A slow chuckle left him. Still, it was a odd idea he didn't think he could get used to. Hanako becoming his 'steed'. It was foreign.
She barked a laugh. "I'll let you figure that one out on your own."
Coming up next to the wagon, Hana lowered her voice and murmured, "Maybe you should get his attention. A giant fox is hard enough for most people to swallow, let alone one that talks."
Ronin nodded, knocking his hand on the side of the wagon softly, "hello?" He called out with a soft grin, a strong yet friendly voice.
The old man glanced over, then yelped, drawing his horses up short with wide eyes. Hana gave a soft huff of amusement.
"Ah. Hello." The trader was staring at them with wide eyes. "You- from before, with the girl who gave me directions." He shook his head, seemingly getting a handle on himself, and asked, "Can I help you?"
Ronin gave the man a soft smile, unclipping the sheathe from his hip and holding up the blade, "I believe you can help me with this? It needs some sharpening, the etchings need to be engraved." Immediatly getting down to bussiness. He was hoping the man was at least enthusiastic about his bussiness. Since he knew any arcane smith could appreciate a proper sword like Hanryo.
"Oh." A business deal, and the trader was beaming. "Of course, of course. Here." He climbed down from the wagon and Hana moved back to give him room.
Tottering around to the back of the wagon, the man gestured for them to follow and Hana padded after him. "Should have you fixed up in no time," he chattered away. "By the way, where did your companion disappear to? And I don't recall seeing you're rather...unusual steed."
Again, the kistune huffed a laugh.
Ronin prodded his ankle softly against her flank, a warning she should remain silent for now. "Oh, she went on ahead." Ronin chuckled as he pulled a scroll from his belt, showing it to the man, "summoning magic," he explained briefly.
"Ah, yes, yes." It was clear that the man was only politely interested, and he really wanted to get down to work. "Now. Let's see that blade of yours then."
Ronin nodded and he got off of Hanako, unsheathing the blade and holding it out to the man. "Here," he murmured as he forced a surge of magic through it, causing the glyphs to light up in a radiant blue.
The trader's eyes lit up. "This is very fine work," he admired. "Where'd you come by something like this?"
Hana nudged her nose against Ronin's side and whined quietly, quickly growing bored with the whole "not talking" thing.
"I didn't buy it, I forged it with my clan," he said with the same soft smile, "myself and several scryers meditated and honed the blade." He put his hand on Hanako's head, rubbing it softly. "Patience," he murmured to the kitsune.
"Interesting..." The trader set to work, his attention entirely focused on the blade.
Hanako nudged her head against Ronin's hand and grumbled. Feeling wicked, she flicked her tongue out and licked from his neck to his cheek, tails waving in a rather puppyish manner.
Ronin arched an eyebrow at the lick and softly pushed her head away. "Not now, Hanako."
Yipping a soft laugh, Hana nuzzled a cold, wet nose into his neck.
"Hanako?" The trader glanced up. "Oh. The animal." He went back to his work. "Pretty thing. Looks like it takes quite a hand to tame."
The kitsune growled quietly at that. She was not tame.
"Yes. Quite the mischievous animal," Ronin answered with a smirk. "She was actually fairly easy to tame,"'he teased, glancing at Hanako with a sly grin.
Oh. He was so going to pay for that later.
Hana growled playfully and flicked one of her tails at him sharply.
The trader chuckle. "I can see that she's a handful, but you seem to control her quite well." Looking down at the blade and resuming his work with a chuckle.
Ronin ignoree the tail. They were too soft to actually hurt him. "Mutual respect and kindness go a long way. Even with animals,'" he replied with a soft smile.
"Ah, yes, of course."
Hanako glared, shoving her nose into the warrior's back and huffing indignantly. Yeah, he was definitely going to pay for that.
The trader fiddled with his blade for a bit more, then held it out to Ronin for inspection. "What do you say? Satisfactory?"
Ronin took the blade and unsheathed it, fingers tracing along the flat end of the blade. "More then, how much do I owe.you?"
He felt the shove of Hanako. He knew she was going to go for revenge as soon as she could.
"For that kind of blade? One gold, but I'd take it in silver."
Hana frowned a bit. That seemed high to her, but then again, she really didn't know much about weaponry.
Ronin arched an eyebrow, folding his arms. "One gold. That's a bit much for regular maintenance. 60 silver," he offered. Hoping the trader would settle for at least 80 silver.
The man arched an eyebrow, eyes glinting at the challenge of a barter. "Ninety," he countered. "And that's being far too generous."
Hana huffed and rolled her eyes. Trading had always bored her- which was why she tended to just pickpocket when she needed coin.
"Meet me halfway, seventy five," was what Ronin offered in return, his face a neutral expression.
"Eighty," the man countered immediately. "Won't go lower than eighty, good sir."
"Deal." Ronin said with a gentle smile. "Eighty silver for a job well done," he said as he fished his purse from his belt and pulled out the according amount, holding it out for the trader.
The man beamed and accepted the praise, and the coin, graciously. "Thank you very much. Pleasure doing business with you."
Whining quietly, the kitsune pawed at Ronin's leg, eager to be on their way.
"The pleasure was all mine," Ronin said as he clipped the sheathed katana back to his hip again, pulling himself ontop of Hanako again. "Safe travels," he said to the man before Hanako went on her way again.
Setting back off down the road, Hana waited until they were some distance away before grumbling, "Easy to tame, really?"
Ronin chuckled, "I need some way to get back at your teasing. This was a valid means."
Without warning, Hana sat back on her haunches, toppling him to the ground. She glowered over her shoulder at him. "I am not tame."
Ronin landed on his feet, arching an eyebrow. "Hit a sensitive spot?" He inquired with a chuckle.
Shifting back to her halfling form, Hana stalked forward and planted her hands in the center of his chest.
She shoved lightly, a low growl rumbling in her chest. "You knew you were going to pay for that the moment you said it. You wanna pay now?"
Ronin's build being more imposing that Hanako's, he stood his ground, looking down at her, "depends. How would I be paying for it?"
She smirked. "I'm not shy, Daisuke, but I have a feeling you don't want me to drag you down and ride you in the middle of this road." She leaned up to nip at his neck and added, "Which I am about four seconds away from doing."
"So.. Some form of abusive.. Revenge sex?" He asked, the frown on his face heard in his voice. "I'd rather not."
"Abusive, no," she said, pressing her lips to his neck over where she'd bitten. "Revenge, yes. Unless you take it back."
"Hm." Ronin snorted slowly, "you take back me being adorable first," he murmured in response.
"Mmm..." Hana pecked his lips. "But see, that was true. Me being tamed- not so much."
"I strongly argue against that." He said with a soft chuckle. "Me being adorable, that is. So we can move on from this if we both take it back, no?"
"We could," she conceded. "But it's not really in my nature to back down. So. You first."
"No. You first. You said it first," Ronin retorted.with a rather sober look on his face.
Hana gave a soft growl and nipped at his neck again. "Then I'm afraid we seem to have reached an impass," she murmured.
Ronin let out a soft snort. "You just want to do this in public, don't you?" He chuckled slowly. "Perverted vixen," he murmured under his breath.
She smirked against his skin. "Hey, I gave you an out," she purred. "Besides, it's kinda fun when there's the chance you'll get caught."
Rocking back on her heels, Hana shrugged and added teasingly, "Though if you're feeling really squeamish about it, there's some bushes over there that might offer some cover."
Ronin smirked softly. "I am still trying.to work out how exactly you're going to force me into this," he said with a low chuckle.
"While I could," she murmured pointedly, "It'd be more fun if I didn't." She let her hand trace down his chest to the dip of his hips and lingered, tails swishing slowly from side to side.
"C'mon, Daisuke," Hana murmured, mock pouting and pressing closer to him. "Do you really suddenly not want me anymore?"
"Not where the occassional traveller can find us," he retorted sternly. "And enlighten me. How will you force me? I am intruiged."
"Fine." Hana huffed, wrinkling her nose at him and muttered, "No sense of adventure." With a little shrug, she added, "I'm stronger than I look- er, seem."
"Having sex in full view doesn't even come close to an adventurous side. The word you are looking for is exhibitionism," he retorted bluntly. "And. Do elaborate."
"Elaborate?" She arched an eyebrow. "I mean...I'm strong. I'm not sure what else there is to say." She shrugged. "If I really wanted to I could probably carry you in this form, if that's any indication."
Ronin let out a soft chuckle, pressing his hips forward against Hanako's sharply. "I meant this, Hana," he whispered with a grin. "The more technical details."
The kitsune sucked in a sharp breath at the contact, looking up at him through half lidded eyes. "It's not hard for me to get a man's body to respond, Daisuke," she murmured. Then she frowned. "I wouldn't really make you do anything you didn't want to though. I have some decency."
"Through magic? You truly are a perverted vixen," he smirked slowly. Though he had to admit. This talk was getting him quite aroused. And the presence of Hana's body against his. Each passing second did make the bush sound better and better.
Hana smirked at him. "You said I needed magic?" she teased smugly, wrapping her arms around his neck and wiggling her hips against him.
Her smirk widened as she felt the barest brush of his body's response. "See?"
"I never said that," Ronin said with a breathy tone, softly pushing back against Hanako. "Besides, you'll have to do better. I am only half mast here," he whispered in her ear with a breathless chuckle.
Chuckling quietly, Hana murmured, "I thought you didn't want me to do this." She wiggled her hips again, letting one hand trail down to his thigh, stroking lightly up and down.
"You have that effect," he whispered in response, "but not on the road." He slowly rolled his hips against hers. "We did it this morning aswell. So you'll have to try harder."
She snorted softly and rocked up to press her lips to his cheek. "I can think of a few things I could try," she murmured. "But I have a feeling you wouldn't want me to do those in the middle of the road either..."
"The bush?" He whispered in a questioning manner.
Laughing, Hana teased, "You certainly changed your mind quickly," but she started pulling him gently off the road, letting her hands drift to his hips as she tugged him along.
"You keep rubbing against me like a desperate housecat," he murmured in response as he was pulled to the promised shrubbery that would hide their intimacies from sight.
"Do you want me to stop?" Hana whispered, stilling her movements and simply standing pressed against him, smirking.
"I never said that," Ronin murmured with a faint blush, pulling her closer. "Are we out of sight?"
"Mhm." Her hands on his hips, she started to sink down, tugging gently to pull him with her. "If you sit, anyway. You're rather tall."
Ronin nodded slowly, sitting down with a muffled grunt, pulling a rather uncomfortable branch from underneath him and discarding it.
Hana smirked, leaning back so he could settle himself before wriggling herself in between his legs and stretching up to kiss his neck, then his jaw, then his lips, pressing as much of herself against him as she could manage.
Ronin grunted softly as their lips met, gently pressing back against her and parting his lips slowly. His hands slipped underneath the kimono on her shoulders, softly spreading the robes open.
She squirmed around a bit to get her kimono to fall around her waist without breaking the kiss. One hand on his hip, Hana traced the other down to his thigh, then over to cup him through his clothes.
He grunted in the kiss, letting out a soft groan as he felt her hand on his crotch
Hana grinned wickedly and trailed kisses down to his neck again, letting the heel of her hand rub teasingly against him.
"You can tell me what you want, you know," she murmured between kisses.
Ronin let out a grunt between his teeth, shaking his head slowly, "I know you know what I want," he said with a slow sigh.
"Do I?" She smirked and leaned up to peck his lips, letting her hands move up to the hem of his breeches and slowly starting to pull them down. "Am I getting closer?"
"You do.." Ronin let out a breathless pant, "yeah, slowly. Getting there."
Hana decided she was having far too much fun with this, but she really couldn't find it in her to care.
Chuckling quietly, she worked his breeches down to his knees and then set about presses teasing little kisses down his torso, pushing his shirt up so she could linger at his navel, humming quietly against the skin.
Ronin let out soft grunts his head slumping back as he put his hands down behind him, leaning on them and closing his eyes in pleasure.
Glancing up at him, Hana gave a wicked little smile and abruptly wrapped her lips around him and bobbed her head down, fingers digging lightly into his hips as she did.
A slow, ragged gasp left him as he felt Hana's lips around his member, he sat up slowly and put a soft hand on her head, "Hana," he whispered with a breathy voice.
Humming in acknowledgement of her name, Hana continued to work him, giving a few rather dexterous twists and flicks of her tongue as she fell into a rhythm.
And surely, Ronin did harden fully, gritting his teeth as he leaned forward. "D-damn," he whispered breathlessly.
Feeling a little triumphant, Hana pulled away and tilted her head back to peck his lips. "See? No magic required," she teased quietly, shifting forward to settled herself on his lap, knees to either side of his hips.
Ronin chuckled. "Felt magic," he answered as his hands found occupation on her rear, softly squeezing her buttocks before bringing his hand up to gently rub the base of her tail, stroking his member against her folds, "ready?" He asked with the same pant in his voice.
Groaning quietly as her whole body seemed to light up with a shock of sensitivity, Hana let out a shaky breath and murmured a mock challenging, "Are you?"
Shuffling her hips around, she sank down onto him almost abruptly, gasping as she did and clutching at his shoulders.
Ronin took a sharp breath in as she suddenly lowered herself on his entire length, before letting out a short, breathless huff. "Do I have.. A choice?" He asked with a low grunt as he started to move his hips underneath Hanako.
With a whining little moan, Hana started rocking her hips to meet his movements. "You- could tell me to stop," she pointed out, a little breathlessly.
"Would you-.. If I did?" He asked with a slow grin, resting his head in Hanako's neck, softly kissing her.
Whimpering softly at the suggestion, Hana gave a jerky nod. "If- if you really wanted me to," she panted out.
Thrusting her hips against his and grinding down, she added with a soft moan, "But I don't think you do." She tilted her head to the side to bare more of her neck.
Ronin let out a soft grunt. "You got me.." He whispered as he started to angle himself slightly under Hanako, trying to find the spot that made her yell his name in bliss last time, not even thinking they were just next to the road, greedily licking and nipping her neck as he did.
It didn't take him long to find that sweet spot, and when he did Hanako gasped, her rhythm stuttering for a moment.
"Holy gods," she panted, one of her hands flying up to tangle in his hair. "St-still think I'm tame?" she rasped, bucking her hips against him, hard, to get that blissful feeling again.
Ronin pressed a panting kiss in her neck, "you liked that.." He grinned faintly in her neck. "Do you really.. Want me to answer that?" He inquired breathlessly, trying to find her sensitive pose again and keep thrusting inside her at that angle.
"Yes," she hissed. "Yes I liked that- ah!"
Again he found the perfect angle and Hana groaned, not even bothering to try to keep her voice down. "No," she decided, panting. "I don't care if you answer. Just keep doing that."
Ronin smirked as he put both his hands on her rear again, speeding his own thrusting up against her with low pants and loud groans, resting her head on Hanako's shoulder. "Hana.. Fuck.." He whispered breathlessly.
Mewling, Hana wrapped her arms around him and tangled her hands in his hair, nails scraping lightly against his scalp as she let her head fall back and arched into him, increasing her pace to match his.
"Daisuke," she almost whimpered. "G-gods...fuck, Daisuke..."
Panting heavily, his grip on her rear tightened as he assisted in her movements by bouncing her up.and down. He pressed a series of furious kisses in her neck and down her chest, pressing heated kisses and soft licks on her chest.
Hana encouraged his attentions with soft gasps and moans, her back arching and two of her tails curling down to stroke against his legs lightly.
It seemed like with ever thrust he was hitting that sweet spot now, and she started to give sharp little cries each time their hips came together.
And the only thing he could do with such encouragement was continuing, he toyed with her breasts by brushing his lips, pressing hot kisses, making gentle nips and licks. All the while he panted hotly as he kept thrusting inside her at, more or less, the same angle.
Clenching her hands in his hair, Hana gave a keening groan and clenched her eyes shut against the waves of pure sensation rocking through her.
"Close," she panted out, getting up the energy to tilt her head and feather kisses to his temple. "I'm so close, Daisuke..."
"I'll take.. Care of that," he murmured between bitten groans as he slowly lifted Hanako up. Almost breaking contact before he slammed her down with one enormous thrust, pulling out swiftly and repeating this over and over again, still trying his best to hit the sensational spot.
Hana actually screamed, throwing her head back and clutching at him desperately. It only took a few thrusts to send her sailing over the edge and she tightened around him with a rasping cry of "Daisuke!"
Daisuke let out loud groans as he pushed Hana over the edge, pulling back and gritting her teeth, sweating glistening on his face and arms. While Hana was forced over the edge, Ronin kept thrusting inside of her, for he wasn't done just yet.
And after several second, he let out soft pants and groans, "Hana.." He bit her name out.
Panting desperately, Hana groaned and let her head fall onto his shoulder as he continued to move, the relentless pace sending another shock of pleasure through her. She mewed out another moan, his name catching on a breath, as another climax followed on the heels of her first.
Ronin grit his teeth and let out a loud groan, panting before biting out her name with soft grunts repeatedly. "Hana.. I gotta.." He groaned as he slowly lifted Hanako off.
Understanding what he meant but feeling rather boneless, Hana did her best to sort of roll off of him, ending up on her hands and knees beside him with her head hanging low as she panted, desperately trying to get her breath back.
Ronin held her close still as he pinched his eyes shut the instant he pulled out, pressing his lips on hers passionatly. He didn't finish however. He just hald Hanako close and kissed her passionatly.
Breathless, Hana kissed him back, reaching up to wrap her arms around his neck.
Then, as coherent thought slowly started to return, she broke away to gasp a breath and murmured, "Don't you- I mean you didn't..."
He wrapped his arms around her under her arms, closing his eyes as he did.
As she broke the kiss, he shook his head with a soft smile, "it's alright."
She frowned at him, shaking her head. "No, that's not fair." Her hand trailed down his back to his waist, then curved around to where his hip met his thigh.
Hana tilted her head, fingers stroking ever closer to the fork of his legs. "I could..." She trailed off, wrapping her fingers almost delicately around him.
His length was throbbing as she touched it. Ronin glanced at her momentarily, swallowing heavily as he felt the touch around him. Letting out a shuddering breath.
Taking that as permission to continue, Hana slowly started to stroke up and down, keeping her eyes on his face as she lowered herself down to take him into her mouth again.
Ronin grit his teeth as he felt the soft stroking, feeling her move down at the same time. "Hana.. Hou don't have to-"' his sentence was cut off by a sharp breath, "Hana.." he let out another grunt.
Hana's eyes flickered over his face and she resisted the urge to smile, dragging her tongue from his base to his tip. "I know I don't have to," she murmured. "I want to, Daisuke. I want to make you feel good."
She dipped her head down again, gripping his hips and shifting her angle a bit so she could nearly swallow him whole.
"Oh.. Hana.. fuck.." he let out a ragged breath as he felt her tongue slowly running across his entire length, before bobbing her head down. Wich was rewarded by a loud groan from Ronin.
One that resounded even louder as Hanako nearly took in the entirety of him. And he wasn't small in any way. He couldn't resist putting a hand on her head, bucking his lips and softly pushing her down the last bit, letting out loud pants.
Smirking, Hana let him push her down, then lifted her head, running her tongue along his length before bobbing down again. She repeated the pattern a few times, pace steadily increasing as she did.
Ronin kept panting loudly, his hand trailing through Hana's hair, his other finding occupation on her shoulder. After several moments, he grunted deeply. "Hana.. So close.." He bit out with a deep groan.
Hana hummed in acknowledgement and swirled her tongue around him. Wanting to avoid a mess this time around, she lifted her head up for a moment to murmur, "It's okay, let go," before she bobbed down again.
And let go he did. He forced Hanako completely once more, his hand squeezing her shoulder as he came, releasing his climax down her throat with a heated grian that contained her name at least thrice.
Her eyes widened slightly as she swallowed, gaze flicking up to his face while a tiny glow of pride lit in her chest, a little delighted that she could make him come apart like that, it was her name on his lips.
Pulling away from him and drawing in a ragged breath, Hana sat up, letting her hands trace lightly up his sides. "So?" She smirked, leaning forward to nuzzle under his chin. "Worth the bush?"
Ronin panted softly as she nuzzled against histhroat, holding her close. Only now realizing they were in fact, next to the road. He nodded faintly, "I can ask you the same question," he whispered softly.
She smiled smugly. "Definitely worth it," Hana purred, pressing her lips lightly to the column of his throat.
Ronin chuckled, still out of breath. "At this rate.. It'll take longer to get to Cerenis.." He smirked softly.
Hana leaned back, slowly pulling her kimono back up and fixing the hem. "Well, if you're that worried about it, I suppose we should stop," she said lightly, eyes glinting.
"I never said that," Ronin murmured wuth a chuckle as he pressed forward and pushed a soft and loving kiss on Hana's lips.
"Hmm..." Hana returned the kiss happily, adding a few more pecks before she pulled away and started to get to her feet. "Come on, we've still got some ground to cover before nightfall."
Ronin nodded and pulled on his pants again, getting dressed fully again and standing up aswell, "lead the way."
She reached for his hand and twined their fingers together as they started off down the road again, one tail flicking over lightly to trace the back of his leg.
Ronin smiled softly and squeezed Hanako's hand softly as they walked.
As they walked, Hana noted that the trader from earlier had a founded complaint in saying that all the mile markers were down. She frowned, trying to remember how close they were to the nearest town.
"I think we might be sleeping outside again," she murmured eventually with a small sigh.
"Perhaps we should look for a spring," Ronin said with a soft smirk. "Sleeping outside isn't all that bad, now is it?"
"Hmph." She sniffed, wrinkling her nose. "Well. I suppose it's better with you than on my own," she admitted.
Ronin smirked. "You told me you wanted to try meditation once?" He inquired with a soft chuckle.
Oh, right. She had said something like that, hadn't she?
"Yeah. I mean, if you're willing to put up with teaching me," Hana said lightly, giving him an affectionate little nudge with her shoulder.
Ronin chuckled. "It's not really teaching. It's more like.. Guiding." He smirked slowly. "Guided by a blind man."
"Gods help me," Hana mumbled, rolling her eyes even though she knew he couldn't see it.
Fonin kept smirking. "And that sass.will bring you nowhere."
"Oh, I don't know." She grinned, pressing closer to his side as they walked. "I think you secretly like my sass. I think it turns you on a little," Hana teased.
Ronin shook his head with a chuckle, "it doesn't turn me on. At all," he assured with a soft smile.
"Hmm." She mock pouted, leaning against his arm for a moment. "Well I must do something you like," she mused. "I can't be entirely annoying- you wouldn't bother keeping me around."
For a moment, she actually forgot about the magic bond tying them together.
Ronin stopped in his tracks and put his hands on her shoulders. "Circumstances forced or not, you're trustworthy and reliable. I'd almost say respectable, but you wanted to do it in the middle.of a road," he chuckled softly. "You're easy on the.. Err," smooth one, Ronin, "..Hands?"
Hana giggled at his little slip, but she found her cheeks flushing at his praise. "You know, you may be the first person who's ever described me as trustworthy," she noted, chuckling.
Lips curving in a small smile, she looped her arms loosely around his waist and twisted her head to kiss his hand on her shoulder.
Ronin stepped closer, one arm around her shoulder and another hand on her left buttock, he pulled her up softly and pressed a tender kiss on her lips, softly sucking her lower lip.
Hana's tails swished happily and she stretched up onto her toes to return the kiss, giving a pleased little hum at his attentions and shivering lightly from his contact on her rear.
"You know," she muttered, breaking away for a moment only to feather kisses along his jaw, "For someone who was so scandalized by the idea- you're getting awfully affectionate in the middle of the road."
"This is just a kiss," he answered with a chuckle. "Even if I wanted to, I'm not sure if I would have the energy to," he murmured softly.
"I meant this." She wiggled her hips to press her rear back into his hand, tails flicking. With a smile and another soft kiss, she added, "Honestly, you may have even tired me out- and that's not easy, trust me."
Ronin smirked and gave her ass another soft squeeze, "what about it?" He asked before letting out a soft chuckle. "I'll take that as a compliment."
He frowned, shoulders tensing as he looked to the sky. "Desperation," he murmured to himself.
Suddenly. Out of nothing a creature (https://xxxandysixxxxx.files.wordpress.com/2010/07/vastolord_ichigo_by_bluedemon131.jpg) stood infront of them. Watching the two. The influx of demonic powers were easiky sensed. Whatever this was. It was powerful.
"Daisuke.. Shizuka.." A voice, originating from the creature, whispered his name and threw a white mask on the floor, "you sensed it. The child.. Has succumbed." It stepped forward, Usagi's mask cracking under his foot.
He raised the black blade, a whisp of black energy flakkering, and thrusted it through Ronin's heart. Not hurting him physically. "You are her sucessor," the creature held out a mask, similair to the previoud one.
Ronin was frozen solid in place. Paralyzed in fear.
Whipping around, Hana growled in instinctive fear as she felt a strange power wash over them, ears flattened to her skull and tails whipping back and forth behind her. "What the-?"
Her voice seemed to choke off and her eyes widened. Gods preserve us.
She couldn't speak, couldn't move, just staring at the creature while she trembled with tension and fear.
Then if attacked- or at least that's what it seemed to her- and a yowling sort of cry tore out of her. Shifting to her fox form in a breath, the kitsune lunged forward, white hot flame sparking to life beneath her paws and a snarl curving her lips.
She just charged right through the etheral being. It glanced at her, before turning back to Ronin. "You cannot touch me, fox spirit." It was true, it was almost like it existed across several dimensions.
Ronin grit his teeth as he took the mask, "I carved out my eyes.." It let out a slow hiss. Almost amused. "Not fast enough. The hunt is on. It is your turn, Daisuke."
The creature turned around and dissappeared as if it never was there. Not a puff. Not a a sound. It was just gone.
Hanako whirled around again, snarling as she shifted back to her halfling shape, claws and teeth bared as the thing disappeared.
"What the hell?" she growled, masking fear with aggression. Her eyes flicked to Ronin and suddenly her expression melted into concern and something approaching panic. "Are you alright? What was that thing?"
She moved toward him, reaching to touch his arm lightly.
Ronin seemed to be overtaken in a panical fear, his hands trembling as he dropped the mask and fell on his ass, "no.. No.. No no.." He shook his head in disbelief. Rational thinking deafened by panicked cries in his mind.
"Daisuke? Daisuke!" Hana dropped to her knees beside him, grabbing his shoulders and ducking her head to try to read his face. "What's going on? Talk to me, please," she begged, leaning forward and wrapping her arms around his neck for lack of any other ideas to soothe him.
He was overwhelmed. Hana calling his name. It sounded so distant. It was laughable. Truly. He thought he had blinded himself in time to avoid the corruption. But cruel fate didn't agree.
He chuckled bitterly. The irony was painful that it became funny. "You just.. Witnessed the contents of the Kurohitsugi."
"The- the what?" Hana blinked, tightening her arms around his shoulders and searching his face. "Daisuke, please, you're scaring me. What was that thing? What just happened?!"
"That thing.. Is what my clan tried to keep sealed away.." He looked up at Hanako. "That thing.. Heralds the end for all who have seen him.."
For a long moment she was silent, staring at him.
Then Hana threw herself forward, wrapping her arms around him so tight it probably hurt and hiding her face against his neck. "No," she snarled. "No. I won't let it."
In that moment, it didn't even occur to her that if Ronin died she would too.
Ronin let out another bitter chuckle. "You can't defend me from myself.. I will go mad of the power.. Mad because of the stalking. He is watching. He is always watching."
"I can," Hana growled fiercely. "Watch me."
Impulsively, she leaned forward and kissed him, harsh and desperate, not really knowing what else to do with the swirl of emotions in her chest.
"Doesn't matter what he does," she murmured when she broke away, resting her forehead against his. "I won't leave you alone, okay?"
Ronin shook his head with a sigh. "I am bound to die," he closed his eyes and put his hands on Hanako's shoulders. "I was naïve.."
"No." The kitsune shook her head frantically. "No. Because...because..."
Eyes lighting with determination, she suddenly remembered, "Because you promised to protect me, and if you die, I die, remember? So you have to live."
He shook his head slowly as he got to his feet. "I have to think about this.."
"Daisuke..." She didn't know what to say. Biting her lip, Hana climbed to her feet as well, gripping his hand tightly.
"It'll be fine, Hana," he let out a slow sigh. "We'll work it out.."
While his tone wasn't exactly encouraging, it was better than his defeatist comments earlier. "Okay." She leaned up to kiss his cheek, letting the touch linger a moment before settling back down and tugging his hand lightly.
"Come on. Let's find a place to camp and- and then we can talk."
Ronin nodded slowly and smiled faintly, "lead the way.."
She nodded, silent, and lead him a little further down the road to what appeared to be an abandoned hostel of sorts, the building offering three walks and heavily patched roof.
"Here." Hana ushered him in and set about trying to find materials for a fire of some sort, trying to keep busy so she didn't have to think.
Ronin nodded and walked inside, slowly sitting down in the middle of the room and putting the sword on his lap, running his fingers along the porcelain mask he had recieved.
Getting a small fire going, Hana hesitantly sat down beside him, watching his fingers run over the mask.
"What is that?" she asked quietly, drawing her knees up to her chest.
"This thing," Ronin said as he held up the mask (https://img0.etsystatic.com/061/1/10959475/il_340x270.797333152_kfx5.jpg), "will keep me alive." He answered with a slow sigh. "It.. Doesn't approach when I have this on me."
Hana stared at it, then at him. "Do you- you always have to wear it then?" she said softly, shuffling a little closer to press her shoulder against his.
"Not per se wear it," he murmured with a soft sigh, "I just need to have it on me.."
She tilted her head against his shoulder, frowning. "There has to be a way to stop it," she whispered, a hint of desperation in her tone. "A way to kill that- that thing."
Ronin shook his head. "It's an anomaly.. Technically.. It does not exist unless we see it." Ronin sighed slowly. "And we can only see it if it wants to be seen."
Hana frowned. "If- if it kills anyone who sees it, how come I didn't get a mask?" she demanded, searching desperately for some sort of loophole.
"It cannot kill.. It is an omen.. A nightmare into existence.." He sighed slowly as he rubbed his temples. "I don't know how to explain it, but it is.. The opposite of creation. The opposite of everything.. It shouldn't exist," he glanced at Hanako, "it hasn't targeted you."
"Okay..." She furrowed her brow in thought. "If we can't kill it- there has to be some other way to stop it."
Glancing up at him, Hana spontaneously threw her arms around him, hugging tightly. "I'm not gonna let you die, Daisuke."
"I'll die of old age," he answered with a soft chuckle. Putting the mask aside and hugging her closely.
"Very old age," Hana agreed, voice slightly muffled as she fought back the sudden onset of tears. "Very, very old age. Peacefully. With a couple dozen grandbabies and all that other sappy family stuff."
"Eager students, pupils or masters asking me for sagely wisdom," Ronin chuckled slowly as the hug tightened. "I.don't want to die," he whispered.
"You won't." Hana was crying now, little trickles of tears that she was mostly able to keep out of her voice. "I won't let you. If you die, you- you'll have me to answer to, got it?"
Ronin chuckled sadly as he rested his head against her shoulder, "now that's scary.."
"Good." She sniffed again and pressed a quick, clumsy kiss to his cheek. "So you know what's at stake then," she tried to joke.
Letting out a sharp breath, Hana pressed closer against his side, nuzzling into his neck.
"I'm.sorry to put you through," a helpless gesture of his hands, "all of this." He put an arm on Hanako's shoulder and sighed softly.
"Not your fault," Hana mumbled into his neck. "Just- don't go giving up on me, alright? We'll figure something out."
"Still," Ronin pressed a soft kiss on her head. "You're dragged in this.. I feel sorry for that. You don't deserve bein put through this."
"Then make sure I'm not put through anything," Hana muttered. "Don't die."
She tilted her head to peck his lips. Her hands went to his shoulders, turning him slightly and pulling him more firmly against her. "Daisuke...don't die." Her eyes started to itch and she blinked to clear them.
"I won't.." Daisuke murmured slowly. He shook his head and hugged Hanako tightly. "I won't, Hana." He softly rubbed her back, "I love you."
She burst into tears, clinging to him desperately.
"I- I love you, Daisuke," Hana murmured in response, sniffling. She couldn't remember the last time she'd said that to someone.
Ronin chuckled sadly, fighting back tears himself, "what're you crying for, stupid," he said with a shakey voice. "A confession.. Is a happy thing.."
"Shut up," Hana chuckled, still crying and shoving lightly at his shoulder. "I'm not good with emotions, okay?"
She leaned forward and kissed him before he could give a response, letting her hands slip up to cup his face.
Ronin softly pressed back against the kiss, finding her hand with his and letting their.fingers entangle.
Though the kiss started out gentle, Hana found herself pushing for a little more, then a little more, arching up against him and parting her lips with a soft, pleading sort of sound.
Ronin arched an eyebrow at the sound, but followed her exemple none.the less, pressing forward against her body as he slowly flicked his tongue out to explore the inside of her mouth.
Hana leaned back, pulling him with her and letting her tongue clash with his. She hooked a leg over his hip and arched her back, wanting to get as much contact as possible.
The storm of emotions in her chest was too confusing to address directly, so she coped the only way she knew how, kissing him desperately.
Ronin pressed his hips forward against hers at the inviting, and all too familiar gesture of her leg. He broke the heated kiss momentarily. "I thought you were tired out.. Because I know I am.." He whispered softly.
"O-oh..." Hana took a breath, trying to force herself to calm down. She blinked and swiped at her eyes. "You're right. I'm sorry, Daisuke, I just-"
She sniffed quietly and turned her face into his chest. "Not good with emotion, like I said. This- this is the only way I can- I don't know how else to..." She trailed off.
Ronin shook his head slowly, "it's alright.." He muttered as he sat up again, pulling Hanako slowlhmy with again. "Tell me.. I'll teach you how to handle those emotions.. How do you feel? What do you feel?"
The kitsune settled herself onto his lap, curling her legs up and turning her face into his shoulder. "I'm- I'm scared," she admitted in a whisper. "It's been a long time since I've- I've felt this close to someone. That would be hard enough, but..."
Hana sniffled again, tightening her arms around him. "Gods, Daisuke, I don't want to lose you."
Ronin shook his head, pressing a soft kiss on her cheek, "meditate with me," he said with a soft sigh.
She didn't let go of him, but she leaned back a bit to search his face. "Will- will that help?"
"I know it helps me," he said with a faint smile. "But I can't promise it will help you. It might."
Sniffing again, Hana wiped at her eyes one last time and nodded, sitting back. "O-okay. What do I do?"
Ronin nodded slowly, patting the ground next to him, "sit down next to me."
Nodding again, Hana shuffled off his lap and settled beside him, crossing her legs as she's seen him do before and resting her hands on her knees. "Now what?"
"Close your eyes, take deep breaths in and out. Start counting, each time you breathe in, you add one to the count." Ronin took a deep breath. "Keep doing that.. If you lost count, don't worry. Just start over." Ronin smiled softly. "You'll find yourself at peace. You will barely react to outside stimuli. Then you start thinking, what has happened. What is going to happen? How do I feel about it, all of those things." Ronin took another deep, sighing breath.
"As soon as you feel distressed again, you empty your mind and count your breath once more."
"Um...okay." The kitsune shifted a bit, bringing her tails around to rest in her lap and letting her ears relax back against her skull slightly. She took a deep breath, trying to empty her mind.
One...
An image of that creature popped into her head. Her ears flattened back and she whimpered quietly, then tried to empty her mind again.
One...
What if they couldn't stop it? What if that thing killed him?
One...
This was gonna be a long night.
Ronin clipped his blade from his sid and put it on his lap. Seemingly doing the same excercice. His face was one of neutrality.
While Hana couldn't quite seem to get the knack of real "meditation" the rhythmic breathing did quickly start to calm her down, almost lulling her.
It didn't take long for her to fall asleep, and she started listing to the side, eventually collapsing onto her side and curling up, completely unconscious.
Ronin arched an eyebrow as he heard the thud, arching an eyebrow. Softly calling out her name.
If she didn't answer, Ronin put the sheathed sword down next to him and sighed. "Or. You can fall asleep," he murmured with a faint chuckle, pulling two bedrolls from the bag and putting them on the ground, next to eachither, before softly picking Hanako up and putting her down, cuddlingbher closely as he closed his eyes aswell.
Hana murmured in her sleep as he moved her but didn't wake, snuggling against him with a contented little sigh.
After several hours, Ronin woke again, sitting up silently and stretching, before standing up slowly. He wouldn't admit it to Hana. But he was even more worried than she was. He pulled a bitter expression as he picked Hanryo up, clipping the sword on his side again.
With the sudden absence of warmth, Hana frowned in her sleep and murmured, rolling over. She woke slowly, her back to Ronin- and when she realized she was alone she snapped upright, eyes going wide.
"Daisuke!" She whipped around, saw him not three feet away, and slumped in relief, dragging in a shuddering breath. "Gods- don't scare me like that!"
She knew she was being ridiculous, but she couldn't seem to help it.
Daisuke immediatly turned to her. "What's wrong?" He asked, with a sheen, the katana slid from the sheath. He arched an eyebrow and let out a soft breath. "Scare you?"
"You- I woke up and you were gone," Hana snapped, then winced. Dear gods she was acting completely crazy.
She dropped her head into her hands with a sharp breath, shoulders slumping. "Sorry, I'm sorry," she mumbled, climbing to her feet. "Not your fault. I just...I was worried."
Ronin sat down next to her, putting a soft arm around her shoulder. "I promise, I won't leave like that." He answered with a soft smile.
"You'd better not." She twisted to nuzzle into his neck. "I'd hunt your ass down," she muttered, trying to bluster through the emotion building up in her chest.
Ronin chuckled slowly, "now now. Don't get agressive now," he answered with a chuckle as he pulled her closer.
"Watch me," Hana grumbled, wrapping her arms around his waist and nipping lightly at his neck before kissing the spot.
Sighing, she moved to pull away. "Come on. We should keep moving."
Ronin let out a soft chuckle at the nip, before he stood up, holding his hand out to pull her up.
She let him pull her up, rocking onto her toes to kiss his cheek before starting back out toward the road. "I think we should be in Cerenis before sundown," she noted casually, trying to establish some air of normalcy.
Ronin smiled at the kiss, before he went to work on rolling up the bedrolls, packing them up and joining Hana silently.
Hanako paused, glancing over at Ronin for a moment before she reached out and laced her fingers through his cautiously, pressing in against his side.
"Is it..." She paused, then let out a sharp breath and just asked the question. "Is it easier in crowded places? I mean, to hide from that- that..."
Ronin looked at Hanako, softly grabbing her hand. "It doesn't show itself infront of other people.. I think it marks you as an exception, since you also saw it," he said with a soft sigh, hooking the mask to his belt. "It claimed the life of the child I tried to protect.. Back then." He admitted with a sigh. "It claimed Usagi's life.. Or at least, her powers, else it wouldn't show up here."
The kitsune's ears drooped and she bit her lip. "Poor kid," she murmured, eyes dropping to their feet.
Then a thought struck her and she glanced up at him, brow furrowing in worry. "So...even if I'm with you it could still- it could still come after you?"
He nodded slowly. "She was scarred for life," he added with a sigh. And it was his fault. He couldn't residt opening the Kurohitsugi in a desperate attempt to aid his clan.
He sighed slowly. "I don't know. I think it will. Since you saw it aswell."
"I'm sorry." Hana pressed closer against his side, trailing absent kisses from his shoulder down his arm. "I'm so sorry, Daisuke. Can't I- isn't there something I can do?"
He shook his head slowly. "We'll have to accept it. And stick to the mask."
She shook her head sharply, squeezing his hand. "I'm not accepting anything," she muttered. "I'll figure something out. There has to be a way."
With a small sigh she let her head drop, steps a little heavier than normal as they made their way down the road.
"Hana.. I don't want to make you despair. But that thing.. It doesn't exist.. Only to the ones it wants to exist.. It's an abomination.of reality that shouldn't even exist." He sighed slowly. "There is no way."
Hana gave a soft whimper and curled herself around his arm, clutching him as tightly as she could.
"You promised you wouldn't die," she murmured. "You promised, Daisuke, and I will hold you to that."
Ronin sighed softly. "I know. I don't plan to leave you," he murmured softly.
"You'd better not." She lapsed into silence as they walked, thinking.
Ronin shook his head with a small smile, remaining silent as they walked.
The sun was starting to creep toward the horizon and they still hasn't reached Cerenis. Hana sighed, shaking her head. "I think we're camping outside again," she muttered. It seemed their little delays has caught up with them.
"We'll get there," Ronin answered with a soft smile. "You still have meditation to do." He said with a chuckle.
She grumbled a bit at that, eyes flicking around to search the side of the road for an appropriate place to bed down.
"C'mon," she murmured, taking his hand and tugging him after her when she spotted a small ring of shrubbery. It would offer some protection at least.
Ronin smirked at the grumble, before letting out a surprised 'woah', as he was pulled into the shrubbery, asking an eyebrow. "Eager, aren't you?"
Hana quirked an eyebrow at him, despite the fact that she knew he couldn't see it. "What, for meditation? Hardly," she scoffed.
"You weren't half bad," he answered with a chuckle. "Even though you fell asleep, you did keep pretty still for a good amount of time."
"I don't like keeping still," Hana grumbled, taking the bedrolls from him so she could lay them out side by side. "It's not in my nature."
Ronin put the backpack down when Hanako had taken the bedrolls, shrugging. "Still. I expected you to give up halfway through and start to annoy me."
Her expression tightened a bit and she found herself unable to look at him. "I...wasn't much in an annoying sort of mood last night," she murmured.
Ronin shook his head, putting an arm around her shoulder and bumping his forehead against hers. "I was joking, Hana."
She sighed, nuzzling against him a bit. "I know. I'm sorry, I just...I'm worried. And I can't shake it. And I don't like being worried."
She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed a quick kiss to his cheek, huffing out a quiet breath as she let her head drop onto his shoulder.
Ronin hugged her closer as she rested her head against his shoulder. Taking a deep breath, but remaining silent after that.
Hana shifted a little closer, pressing against his side. "Daisuke?" she asked softly after a few minutes. "Are you...okay?" The silence was starting to make her antsy.
"Just.. Thinking," he answered with a soft kiss against her temple, pulling her on his lap softly, before hugging her again.
"Mmm..." Hana settled herself more comfortably on his lap, letting her knees slide to either side of his hips so she could better curl against his chest. "Penny for your thoughts?" she offered quietly.
"Why did it leave that mask. If it's the only thing that stops it from approaching us," he murmured as he looked down at Hanako, resting his chin on her head. "I shouldn't think about it too much.." He said as he softly squeezed her.
She furrowed her brow for a moment. Then a very disturbing thought struck her and she clung a little tighter.
"It's- it's like me," she whispered. "It wants to...play before it- it..." She sniffed and buried her face in his neck. "It's like this, horrid, evil version of me."
"Thay's what I thought, besides it being similair to you," he murmured as he patted her shoulder. "But why, if he wants to play. Why these masks.. Why appear and explain.." He held up the mask he had recieved infront of Hanako. "Why is it decorated like this?"
He put the mask back down, shaking his head slowly and sushing Hanako softly. "It's alright, Hana. We still have eachother..
She nodded rather dejectedly, cuddling closer against him. "Love you," she mumbled, blushing as the words left her mouth.
Tilting her head back, she pressed a soft kiss to his lips, nuzzling her nose against his.
"Love you too," Ronin answered as smiled softly against the kiss, pulling her a tad closer.
Hana hummed contentedly into the kiss, reaching up to cup his face in her hands. She hesitated, meaning to pull away, then changed her mind and tilted her head to deepen the contact, letting her lips part slightly.
Ronin smirked softly in the kiss as Hanako tilted her head. He put his hands on her shoulders and flicked his tongue out to trace the lines.of her lips softly.
Giving a small sound of appreciation for the touch, Hana let her tongue flick out to meet his and shifted on his lap so she was arched up over him, still straddling his hips and tilting his head back as she deepened the kiss.
Ronin leaned back in the kiss, holding Hana for support as he softly pressed his tongue against hers, before pushing past, softly squeezing her shoulders.
She growled low in her throat, putting more heat into the kiss and letting her hands drift down to grip his shoulders, then pass down over his sides and grab at the hem of his shirt, tugging insistently.
Ronin arched an eyebrow as he broke the kiss momentarily to pull off his vest and hold his arms up for her to pull off his shirt, before partaking.in the heated kiss again, pushing the cloth around her shoulders down.
Hana wriggled around to strip off her kimono and dove back into the kiss, breath starting to come a little faster and heavier. She whined softly, trailing her hands down to grip the hem of his pants as her tails swished through the air behind her.
"Someone's eager," Ronin momentarily broke the kiss to let out a breathy chuckle, putting one hand on the base of her tails, the other resting on her shoulder as he pressed a soft kiss on her throat.
"Are you complaining?" Hana retorted breathily, trailing kisses down his neck to graze her teeth lightly over his shoulder. She shivered slightly and pressed back into the touch at the base of her tails with an encouraging little sigh.
"I wouldn't dare.." He murmured with a soft breath, starting to softly stroke the tail as he grunted slowly, bucking his hips softly.
Hana drew in a sharp breath and rolled her hips to meet his almost instinctively. Her tugging at his breeches became more insistent and she dipped her head to nurse at the curve of his neck and shoulder, flicking the occasional little lick across his skin between kisses.
Ronin let out a breathy chuckle at the impatient tugging. "I can't take it off.. With you on top and lets crossed.." He whispered with a hot breath.
"Oh. Right." She flushed a bit and scrambled off his lap, but she kept kissing him as long as she could, trailing up to his jaw and then his lips when she could manage it.
Ronin pulled.down his pants and.underwear, before leaning forward to.kiss Hanako.passionatly, pulling her closer and ontop.of his lap once more.
Hana threw her arms around his neck and pressed as close as she could manage, gasping and giving an almost involuntary buck of her hips.
"Gods, Daisuke," she rasped out, shifting on his lap so she could grind against him.
With several soft grunts and deep gasps, Ronin ground firmly.back against her, his length stroking against her underwear. "Hana.." He murmured softly.
She drew in another sharp breath, reaching down to tug at her underclothes.
"Say you want me," Hana whispered suddenly, an edge of almost panic in her voice. "Promise you won't leave me. Tell me you love me..." Tossing her clothes somewhere over her shoulder, she crashed her lips onto his. "Please, Daisuke."
Ronin arched an eyebrow as she whispered, breaking the kiss momentarily to look at her. "I love you, Hana," he whispered soflty. "I won't leave.." He kissed her cheek, moving down to her throat with a trail of hot kisses. "And I.. Definitly want you.. Right now," He whispered softly, squeezing the base of her tails to back his argument up.
Something like a sob rose up in her throat and Hana kissed him hungrily, rocking her hips forward against him. "Good," she murmured, and let her hips sink down until she was pressed flush against him, shivering slightly as she did.
Ronin grunted slowly, looking up at Hanako. "Hana," he muttered her name as he broke softly. "A-are you alright?" He grunted the question out.
She nodded slowly, eyes clenched shut. "Yes," she murmured quietly, kissing his cheek. "I- I'm perfect, now."
She leaned back slightly, wrapping an arm around his neck to pull him with her as she rocked her hips gently. "Just love me, Daisuke," she pleaded softly, kissing him again. "Make me forget everything else."
Ronin nodded with a soft pant, rolling his hips up against Hanako, parting his lips against Hanako's as she kissed, his cheeks getting red. He flicked his tongue out to lick her lips.
Hana moaned softly into the kiss, leaning further until she was lying on her back, dragging Ronin with her. She curled her legs up over his hips and bucked against him, drawing in a sharp breath at the sensation.
She let her lips part and wrapped her arms around his neck, tilting her head into the kiss.
Ronin put his hand down next to Hana's head, leaning over her, keeping his lips locked to hers. He slodly thrusted against her with soft grunts and groans. He pushed his tongue forward, hoping to.meet Hana's halfway.
She let her tongue flick out to meet his, rocking her hips up to match his thrusts and moaning softly. Her hand drifted up to the back of his head, fingers tangling in his hair while the other slid down to grip his waist, clutching him to her as much as she could.
The hand on the base of her tails slowly ran down to her rear to pull her closer. Squeezing her buttock softly as he used the grip to make his thrusts more forceful.
He softly pressed his tongue forward against Hanako's, softly grunting in her mouth.
Hana whimpered quietly as the sensations started to become overwhelming, heat coiling in her core. She bucked up against him a little more desperately, breaking away from the kiss for a moment to gasp for air, then diving back in to rain soft, almost chaste kisses over every bit of skin she could reach.
Ronin let out several pants and groans as she broke the kiss, starting to thrust faster against Hanako, sweat glistening over his body. He pressed his body down against Hanako's, the hand on her ass trailing to her tigh slowly, pushing her leg aside softly.
Hana surrendered control, letting him have his way with her, though her frantic little bucks against his hips didn't stop.
"Daisuke," she moaned quietly, head falling back. "Just- a little more, please." Her nails scratched at his back as she clutched him closer.
Ronin let out a louder groan, pressing deeply against her, shutting his eyes. "Don't.. Worry.." He bit out with grit teeth.
She arched her back, clinging to his shoulders and panting heavily. "I love you," Hana whispered, voice cutting off in a low moan as she bucked up against him, tightening her legs around his waist.
"I.. Love you too," Ronin panted heavily, his hand on her tigh squeezing her softly.
Hana mewed and writhed underneath him, trying desperately to hold off her peak. She wanted to be as close to him as she could for as long as he would let her. "Don't stop," she murmured, pressing a kiss to his cheek, then nipping at his ear. "Oh gods, don't ever stop..."
Ronin let out several grunts. "Hana.." He muttered her name incoherently, before letting out a shuddering breath. "I'm.. Close.."
"Me...Me too," she panted, hooking her ankles together behind his back. "Daisuke..." She could feel herself teetering on the edge and finally just let go, crying out his name as she clutched him to her.
Ronin let out several low grunts, that turned to loud groans as Hanako pulled him against her. "I gotta.." He grit his teeth. "Hana.. I can't.." He bit out again as he tried to pull out, the lock around his hips restricting this.
And with a deep groan, he finished inside of her. Muttering her name repeatedly under his pants.
Hana arched her back, dragging her nails down his back and turning her face into the crook of his neck. "I love you," she whispered, pressing as close against him as she could manage.
Ronin let out a shuddering breath at the nails scratching at his back, holding Hana close as he flipped over to lay on his side with her, not even thinking about pulling away any more. "I.. Love you too.. Hana.."
The kitsune shuddered delicately, wrapping herself even more around him, which was rather difficult to do at this point. "Let me sleep like this?" she asked quietly, nuzzling against his chest.
Ronin sighed slowly, "It'll be a bit cold," he answered with a soft hoff, pressing his lips against the top of her head. Gently grinding his hips against hers, still.
"We can use one of the bedrolls for a blanket," Hana grumbled in reply, rocking her hips forward just a bit to meet his and giving a shuddering sigh at the sensation.
Ronin nodded softly and lifted Hanako up weakly, scooting forward with a sharper movement of his hips, he let out a soft groan.
He released brought his hand up with a lazy grunt and grabbed one of the bedrolls. Pulling it over himself and Hanako.
Hana gasped quietly, then settled down against him. "Gods, aren't you done after that?" she laughed tiredly, wiggling her hips against his in gentle retaliation.
"I don't think-" He let out a soft breath. "I.. Couldn't pull out.." Another soft gasp. "And now I'm still.. Being stimulated.." He softly pressed his hips forward against hers. "And it feels.. Like you also want more.."
She smiled softly and raised her head to kiss him. "Well, if you insist," she murmured, wriggling against him again with a wicked glint to her eye. "Show me what you can do, Daisuke," Hana challenged in a whisper.
Ronin gave her a soft smile. "I'm also exhausted." He started to circle his hips around, not pulling out, yet softly circling them against Hana, closing his eyes. "Tender.." He murmured slowly as he pressed a soft kiss on her jawline. Then one in her neck, nuzzling her softly.
Hana shivered delightedly. Letting her head tilt to offer him better access, she rolled her hips gently against him. "I think...I can manage tender," she said softly.
Ronin let out a soft, shuddering breath. "Like that, Hana," he said with a shaky whisper. He moved down, pressing a soft kiss in the cleft of her breasts, before slowly dragging his tongue to one of her nipples, before softly sucking on it. His other calloused hand softly stroking the other.
"O-oh..." Her head fell back and she rolled her hips again with a soft moan of encouragement for his attentions.
Hana was hardly some virtuous maiden, but she couldn't say she had ever experienced anything quite like this. Her romantic encounters were usually of a fast and fiery nature. She'd never really felt like this before.
"That's...really good," she murmured, reaching up to stroke a hand gently through Ronin's hair.
He kept softly rolling his hips against Hanako, softly humming against her bosom, the vibration of the hums possibly giving her even more pleasure. With a another soft chuckle, he lifted his head, pressing his lips down on her other breast. Hand going for her bare breast and softly starting.to stroke the nipple once more. His free hand trailed down to the base of her tails, starting to stroke those softly aswell.
"Daisuke- oh gods, Daisuke, yes," Hana hissed, clenching her eyes shut as little waves of pleasure thrummed through her, growing steadily in intensity. "Just- just like that..."
She let her hands slide down his chest to his hips, then slip around to grip his rear and pull him a little closer, gasping at the shift in the angle that their hips connected.
Ronin groaned softly as she pulled his hips closer, a slight hitch in his movements. He was very sensitive due to his previous climax. He momentarily lifted his mouth and smirked. "Keep making those sounds," he whispered softly, before pressing his mouth down again.
Hana was more than willing to oblige that, gasping and mewing as she ground her hips in little circles against his. She could feel herself climbing again, quickly approaching her peak. "I can't...much longer," she whispered through a soft moan, rolling her hips to press as close against him as she could.
"I'm.. Pretty close," he murmured softly, before groaning a tad louder and pressing his lips down on her breast again, still pleasuring the base of her tails aswell.
She whimpered, arching into him as much as she could and twining her arms around his neck, panting lightly. "D-Daisuke," Hana groaned as she reached her peak, gasping and crashing her lips onto his.
Ronin pressed his lips forward against Hanako's as he pressed further inside, letting out several soft groans as Hana reached her peak.
He was following only shortly after as with several soft grunts, he came inside of Hanako.
"Ohhh..." Hana sighed blissfully, eyes sliding closed as she tightened her legs around his waist, trying to keep him locked against her as close as she could manage.
"That was- that was amazing," she whispered, pressing slow, lazy kisses to his lips. "Gods, Daisuke...I've never felt anything like that."
Ronin panted softly as he pulled out again and softly laid down next to Hanako, keeping his lips locked on hers as he pulled her close again. He broke the kiss softly. "I love you.."
She gave him a small smile, catching at his wrist to bring his fingers up to her mouth to feel it. "I love you too," she murmured, kissing the tip of his nose as she relaxed against him with a contented sigh.
He softly stroked his thumb across her lips, before pressing another soft kiss on them. He softly wrapped his arms around her and pulled her close. "My adorable little Hana.." He murmured softly.
Hana's smile grew and she kissed him back gently. "My brave warrior," she said quietly, nuzzling her nose against his.
Pressing closer, she tucked her head into his chest and whispered, "Get some sleep, Daisuke. We've still got a ways to travel tomorrow."
Daisuke huffed soflty, yawning and closing his eyes. "Sweet dreams.. Hana.." He murmured softly before he went to sleep.
"Sweet dreams," the kitsune whispered back, drawing their makeshift blanket up a little higher and letting herself relax into sleep.
Ronin was already soundly asleep when Hana answered, breathing softly, and deeoly, through his nose.
Hana was sleeping soundly, physical and emotional exhaustion taking their toll on her. She drowsed past sunrise, which was unlike her when she was sleeping in the open.
Roughly half an hour after sunrise, Ronin stirred and woke slowly, feeling Hana in his arms. Breathing softly. He concluded she was still sleeping and decided to let her sleep in. He slowly tried to fall asleep again.
Shifting in her sleep, Hana frowned and muttered something that sounded like "leave him alone". She clutched at Ronin, pressing closer to him unconsciously.
Ronin frowned softly as he heard the sound and felt Hana pressing closer against him. He softly pressed a kiss on her forehead, before yawning softly.
Whatever nightmare the kitsune was having seemed to be growing in intensity. She whimpered quietly and her sleepy little shifts started to seem more like she was struggling to escape something.
Then with a soft gasp she came awake, eyes wide and chest rising and falling rapidly as she panted. It took her a moment to remember where she was and who she was with, but once she did she went limp, shivering lightly.
Ronin hugged her closely as the nightmare seemed to get worse, pressing soft kisses against her forehead.
"Daisuke." His name was a sigh of relief and Hana curled closer into his chest. "I'm sorry," she mumbled. "Did I wake you?"
He shook his head softly. "I was awake already.." He murmured softly, "what'd you dream about?"
Hana bit her lip and ducked her head, even though she knew he couldn't see her expression. "Doesn't matter," she mumbled. "Just a bad dream, that's all."
"You sure you don't want to tell me?" Ronin asked as he pressed a soft kiss against her head.
She shook her head firmly. "I don't want to think about it." Tilting her head back to kiss his cheek, she added softly, "You're here. It doesn't matter."
Ronin nodded softly. "Alright.." He murmured, before yawning softly. "What time is it?"
Hana twisted in his arms to judge the angle of sunlight. "Just after sunrise," she murmured, turning back to face him. "We should probably start moving," she sighed reluctantly.
Ronin pulled her closer again. A soft sigh coming from his nose. "Let's just stay a while like this.." He murmured softly.
The kitsune huffed and smiled. "Well, if you insist..." she murmured, snuggling a little closer against him.
A deep, content breath left his nose as he relaxed against Hanako's snuggling with a soft smile.
Hana reached up to stroke her hand over his cheek gently. "We really can't stay too long you know," she said quietly, reluctantly.
Ronin let out a soft snort. "I know.." He murmured with a soft yawn. "Five more minutes?" He asked with a soft chuckle.
She smiled, kissing his forehead. "Alright. Five minutes." She let her hand rest on the top of his head and absently petted his hair.
Ronin let out a soft grin as he pressed his lips ontop of her head, holding her close in a warm and comfortable manner. Letting out a soft, content 'hm'.
Hana chuckled quietly, nudging her head up under his chin. "My big, strong, cuddly warrior," she murmured playfully.
"My little, adorable Hana," Ronin retorted with a soft murmur, squeezing her softly.
"Hmph." She poked his chest. "Watch yourself, Daisuke," she mock grumbled. "I'll make you pay for that."
"Ofcourse you will," he answered with a soft chuckle.
"What, you don't believe me?" She scowled dramatically and wriggled in an attempt to get away from him that was more for show than anything else. "You just wait and see," she huffed, trying to squirm out of his arms.
It only resulted in Ronin hugging her tighter. "You're so warm," he murmured softly. "And stop squirming.. You're ruining the mood.."
She sniffed. "Well, if you'd put some clothes on, you wouldn't need me to be warm," Hana muttered petulantly, renewing her efforts to "escape". And conveniently ignoring the fact that she was still unclothed as well.
"Hanako.." He murmured softly. "Sssshh." He sushed as he tilted her head up to place a a soft kiss on her lips.
"Don't you shhh me-" His kiss cut her off and she let herself melt into the kiss, humming contentedly.
Ronin smirked softly under the kiss, pulling her closer ever so slightly, before breaking it. "You're too energetic in the morning.."
"You're too mellow," Hana retorted, though she relaxed against him a bit more. "All the time. You need me around to keep things interesting."
"I've been able to keep myself entertained enough before you showed up," he answered with a soft chuckle. "Killing slavers, rescuing children, being a hero," he smirked softly. "Y'know. The usual."
The kistune snorted softly, giving his shoulder a playful nip. "And so modest too," she teased, one tail swishing out from under the bedroll they were using as a blanket.
Ronin chuckled softly. Nuzzling against her forehead, before resting his chin ontop of her head again.
Hana let her tail drift over to wrap around his waist and crooned happily, nuzzling into him. "I really do enjoy this, Daisuke," she murmured after a moment, "but if we wait much longer we'll be camping by the road another night before we reach Cerenis."
Ronin let out a soft.sigh, stretching his arms behind Hanako. "Let's go.." He mjrmured softly as he sat up.
She smirked, wrapping her arms around his waist and kissing his back, between his shoulder blades. "Might wanna get some close on first, great warrior," she murmured, twisting to look for her kimono.
Ronin took a deep breath as he pushed the bedroll to the side, feeling around for his clothes.
"Here." Hana pushed his clothes closer to his searching hand, wriggling into her own garments and standing with a small sigh.
"Oh." Her brow furrowed slightly and she twitched her hips. She felt rather odd, sorer than their previous encounters had left her. Perhaps that had something to do with the sheer duration.
Ronin brushed his hand past hers as she slipped his clothes closer, pressing a soft kiss on her cheek as he did. He wentbto clothingbhimself and stood up when he was done, clipping the sheathe on his side again and glancing over at Hanako. "Hana. Ready?" He inquired, not having noticed her murmur.
"What? Oh, yeah. Mhm." She smiled and nodded quickly, helping pack up the bedrolls and then falling in beside him to lead him back onto the road.
"Hey, Daisuke?" she said suddenly after a few moments of quiet. "I just want to- I feel like I should say-" She sighed, running her fingers through her hand awkwardly. "Thank you," she mumbled after a moment. "For last night."
He followed Hanako's footsteps in silence, hand resting on.the hilt of Hanryo.
A soft frown as he put a hand on Hanako's shoulder with a.soft sigh, pulling her around into a soft kiss, breaking.it shortly after. "I told you that I loved you, didn't I?"
"Well, yes." Hana leaned up to give him another quick kiss. "But still...thank you. I've never really...been with someone like that before," she murmured.
Ronin smiled softly, before heading his way again. "I'm glad," he said as he stopped several.paces infront.of Hanako. "Remember our first time? At the spring?" He asked with a soft chuckle. "It was my first time, there."
"Wait." Hana's eyes widened and she stopped dead. "Your first time there, like...your first time ever?"
Ronin nodded softly, before shrugging. "It seemed meaningless in the heat of the moment," he answered with a soft chuckle. "But I'm glad it was you."
"Oh my gods." Her eyes were very round. "You were- I was- gods, Daisuke, why didn't you say something?!" she demanded, starting to panic a bit. "If I'd known that I wouldn't have- I mean I'd have been-"
She wasn't actually quite sure what she was trying to say. She'd never been in a situation like this before.
He chuckled softly. "It was new. I was nervous," he retorted as he waoked over, placing both his hands on her shoulders. "Again. I'm glad it was you."
"I still wish you'd told me," Hana grumped, reaching up to cover his hands with hers. "I would've...I could've done something different. Made it...better," she mumbled, twisting her head to kiss his wrist.
A bit of her natural playfulness reasserting itself, she added quietly, "Though I'm glad I didn't disappoint, apparently."
"It's what caused us to get together in the end," Ronin smiled warmly, "it couldn't have been more perfect than that."
Ronin chuckled softly at her remark. "Way to ruin a mood," he said with another chuckle.
"What can I say, it's a gift," Hana chuckled. She leaned forward and wrapped her arms around his shoulders in a quick, tight hug.
Sobering slightly, she added, "If- if you're happy, then yes. It was perfect." She kissed his cheek lightly.
"You do have a knack for it," Ronin retorted with a gentle grin.
Ronin twisted his head catch her lips, rather than have her kissing his cheek, "It was," he assured as he broke the kiss.
Hana sighed happily and nuzzled her nose against his for a moment before she moved around to tuck herself against his side again as they continued walking.
"Next time I'll...I'll do something different though," she mumbled. "Gods, I feel like I corrupted you."
Ronin let out an awkward chuckle. "Perhaps you did," he glanced at her with a soft smirk. "Perverted fox."
She wrinkled her nose at him. "You love me," Hana retorted, nudging her head against his shoulder and swinging one tail around to brush against his legs.
"I never disagreed on that, " Ronin answered with a soft chuckle. "Doesn't mean you're any less of a perverted fox."
Hana huffed incredulously. "Would you love me if I was any different?" she retorted, dropping his hand to skip a few paces ahead and turning to look at him, walking backwards.
"Perhaps," Ronin answered with a shrug. "But, that's not the case." He answered with a chuckle, "and I still love you, either way."
"Sweet talker," Hana accused happily, falling back next to him and linking her arm through his.
"What can I say, it's a gift," Ronin chuckled as he repeated her words from earlier.
She chuckled quietly, shaking her head at him but smiling. Picking up the pace a bit, she chirped, "C'mon, we should be almost there!"
Ronin nodded, following her pace with large strides.
The road forked ahead of them and Hana paused. "Er..."
She suddenly couldn't remember which direction they were supposed to go.
"What's wrong?" He inquired when they stopped, arching an eyebrow and glancing down at Hanako.
"I...um..." She cleared her throat and admitted with a sheepish laugh, "I'm not actually sure which direction we're supposed to go. And there aren't any signs." She bit her lip, scowling. "Damnit."
Ronin let out a soft chuckle. "Really?" He let out a soft shrug. "Either way. We can always turn back."
Hana gave a dramatic groan. "Yes, but turning back means we'll probably have to spend another night outdoors." She chewed her lip for a moment, then shook her head and pointed. "this way. I'm...almost positive it's this way. Come on."
She took his hand again and started off down the road.
"Whatever you say," Ronin said with a soft chuckle, following her as she took his hand. Squeezing hers softly in acknowledgement. "I trust you in finding the right way," a slight hint of cheek to his tone, " don't dissapoint me."
Hana groaned dramatically. "Great. No pressure," she grumbled, lacing their fingers together.
"None at all," he said with a soft smirk on his face. "If you're almost positive."
The kitsune scowled and bumped his shoulder. She was feeling more confident as the road continued on, the landmarks growing more familiar.
"I'm kinda surprised we haven't run into more foot traffic," she murmured after a while.
"Perhaps because it's the wrong way," Ronin started with a soft chuckle.
Hana paused. "No, we're definitely-"
She looked around.
"Probably..."
There was a long moment of silence.
"Damnit," she sighed, ears flicking down to press against her skull. "C'mon, let's turn around," she grumbled.
Ronin couldn't help but let out a loud laughter at the scene.
"Hey!" Hana shoved his chest lightly, pouting. "You know what, you wouldn't even have gotten this far if it weren't for me."
She huffed dramatically and spun to put her back to him, tails flicking back and forth like an irritated cat.
Ronin took several deep breaths as he tried to recover, not even staggering at the shove, putting a hand on Hanako's shoulder as he tried to catch his breath. "True," he said, still partly breathless.
She sniffed, turning her nose up at him. "Maybe you should be thanking me instead of making fun of me," Hana teased playfully, flicking one tail at his legs.
He grabbed the tail before it could even reach me, giving it a soft rub between his fingers. "Hmm," he chuckled softly. "Mayhaps."
Hana shivered at the touch, her eyes fluttering half closed as she bit down on a soft moan. "Daisuke..." she whined quietly, pouting at him over her shoulder. "You're teasing me."
Ronin smirked softly as he released the tail again. "It's a bad habit," he chuckled softly,'"flicking at me with them, that is."
She pouted. "Doesn't mean you have to go grabbing me," the kitsune grumbled. "It's making me all tingly."
"I know it does," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle. "I'm merely the one defending myself from your tails, here."
"Tease," Hana muttered. She bumped his shoulder lightly as they made their way back toward the fork in the road.
"Just taking a page out of your playbook, dear," Ronin hummed with a soft chuckle, following her back.
She couldn't really argue with that, but that didn't stop her from grumbling and scrunching her nose up at him.
"C'mon, dear," she sniffed as they reached the turn she'd made incorrectly the first time. She took the right path this time.
Ronin chuckled softly. "We took the correct path now, right?"
Hana gave him a soft growl. "Yes," she muttered, tails flicking like an irritated cat. Her eyes twitched at what sounded like footsteps approaching.
"Well, at least now we know we're heading in the right direction," she noted, pressing a little closer to Ronin's side and nodding at a small group of travelers as they passed.
Deciding not to tease her further, Ronin nodded. "That's good," he said with a soft smile, squeezing her hand gently.
The kitsune relaxed slightly, lacing her fingers through his as they walked.
The rest of the road to Cerenis seemed to pass quickly enough, and soon they were approaching the outskirts of the city.
"Finally," Hana sighed. She leaned into Ronin's side. "What do you say to some food and a real bath?"
Ronin let out a soft chuckle. "Words waste time," he answered with a soft smirk. He wanted proper food and a bath at least as much as Hanako wanted.
"So true." She slipped her hand up to the crook of his arm and tugged him along down the street.
Cerenis was a loud, busy port city and just about everywhere smelled of fish. Still, it wasn't exactly an unwelcoming place, and Hana found a small bounce inserting itself into her step.
She paused a moment to ask a woman who looked local where the best inn was, then thanked her when they were pointed in the direction of "The Captain's Daughter." It was only a few streets over.
Ronin was pulled along with her, he dien't mind it. So he let Hanako take the lead.
The Captain's Daughter was rather crowded, and Hana shrank back against Ronin for a moment instinctively. Then she shook her head and tightened her grip on his hand, weaving them through the crowds to what appeared to be the proprietor.
A room wasn't as expensive as she'd expected, and soon enough she was pulling her companion up the stairs and through a door, looking around cutiously.
She arched an eyebrow. "This is rather nice," she noted, pleasantly surprised, and crossed the room to inspect the bed, and the metal tub tucked away in the corner.
Ronin let his fingers run across the wooden end off the bed. "It seems like it," he answered as he glanced to Hanako's direction. "Happy?"
She just about purred as she flopped onto the bed. "Very," Hana said brightly. She's called for a bath when the rented the room, and already she was looking forward to it.
"That's good," Ronin answered, sitting down next to her and stretching slowly.
"Mhm." She turned and curled into his side, nudging her head up under his chin. "What do you say we go get something to eat? Bath will probably be ready by the time we come back."
She smirked an added, "I might even let you win another drinking contest."
"That sounds like a good idea," Ronin agreed as he rested his chin on Hanako's head. "And. Please. Don't," he answered with a soft chuckle.
She giggled and tilted her head back to kiss the underside of his jaw, then twisted away and hopped to her feet.
"Come on then," Hana chirped, taking his hand and pulling him after her to the door.
Ronin stood up as he felt his hand taken, being dragged behind the cheery kitsune.
Ducking back through the crowds, Hana managed to find the taproom and pulled Ronin to a table, flagging down a barmaid and ordering whatever they had that was hot, which turned out to be some sort of stew.
"Oh, finally," she sighed, sinking into a chair with relief. "Gods, why do I travel so much?" she joked lightly.
"You're just like me," Ronin answered with a thoughtful huff, "a wanderer. An adventurer, reasons might differ, but here we are." A soft chuckle followed his words. "And I don't think either of us are going to give it up soon."
"Eh, you're probably right," Hana agreed with a quiet laugh. She took a few bites of her food and nudged his foot with hers under the table.
She was quiet for a moment, thinking, then suggested, "Think we should check out the markets tomorrow?"
"I know I'm visiting a tailor and an armourer tomorrow," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle as he started to eat aswell. "But, sounds like a plan."
She nodded and took a sip of her drink- just water this time. "Then I can look for a mage, someone who might be able to help us with this whole bond thing," she said with a quick nod.
Ronin nods softly. "Good idea," he said, taking a sip of his own water. "Care for some ale?" He asked with a soft smirk.
Hana laughed. "I think I'm alright, thanks," she said, nudging his foot again playfully.
"Then just me," Ronin answered with a soft smirk. "Drinking with reason, this time."
"That's my boy," Hana teased. She leaned forward to peck his cheek. "Don't want you with another hangover. I'd have to fix it again." She smirked.
"Oh, dear." Ronin answered with a soft chuckle, before continuing to eat. "I'd pay to see you drunk. Although I think I would regret that."
"Oh, I am a wonderful drunk!" Hana protested laughingly. "It just makes me more fun."
With a smirk, she added, "It would probably take more than this inn has in stock to get me there though."
"Huh," Ronin arched an eyebrow. "More fun," he grinned slowly. "Heavens beware," he added with a chuckle.
She laughed again, ears flicking playfully back and forth. "Maybe I'll show you sometime," she said smugly, taking the last few bites of her stew.
"Warn me in advance," Ronin answered with a chuckle as he bumped his shoulder against her, having finished his meal.
"No promises."
Feeling giddy and a little playful from her full belly, the kitsune leaned over to kiss his cheek, then let her lips trail to his neck, heedless if people were watching.
"I feared such," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle, before putting a soft hand on Hanako's head. "Not here," he murmured softly.
She pouted, but stopped her kisses with a quick nuzzle. "No one's paying attention," she protested with a quick grin, more for the form of the thing than anything else.
"Still," Ronin argued with a soft sigh. "Anyone can if they want to," he answered.
Hana shifted around so she was pressed a little closer to him and let her head rest against his shoulder. "Then you should hurry up and eat," she encouraged teasingly, nudging her head up under his chin.
"And here they say I'm blind," Rnin chuckled as he folded his arms. "I was done before you were," he murmured softly.
((He was already done ^^))
[Oh, whoops! Sorry :3]
Hana found herself flushing a bit. "Oh. Ahem. Guess I got a little distracted." Trying to cover the slip, she nestled a little closer and took his hand to lace their fingers together. "You seem to have the effect on me."
((No problem))
Ronin smirked. "Then I do have some effect," he answered with a chuckle. "You ever heard of Kunata?"
"Kunata?" She repeated the foreign word with a frown and tilted her head. "No, I don't know what that it."
"It's a city," Ronin answered, "and I always wanted to visit there. I even have a contract leading me there." A soft chuckle left him. "Sounds like a plan?"
Hana tilted her head the other way. "Yes. I believe it does. Where is it? How far?"
"It is very far from here," Ronin admitted. "Several weeks, if not months."
She sighed dramatically. "Then I guess we'd better enjoy the comforts of a real bed and food while we can."
Hana bounced to her feet, tails swishing, still holding his hand. "Come on. I'm beat."
Ronin nodded. "And we should prepare accordingly."
He was pulled up by Hanako and nodded slowly, lettingbout a soft chuckle. "Lead the way."
She led them back to the room and practically threw herself onto the bed, then curled up and draped her tails over her own waist.
"Much better than sleeping on the ground," she purred happily.
Ronin took his sheath and armour off, before resting down kext to her with a content huff. "Way better," he agreed.
"Mmmm..." Hana rolled over and curled into him, pressing her nose against his collar and letting out a contented sigh. "Hold me," she demanded playfully, wrapping one tail around to rest over his hip.
"Normally, there's a 'please' that follows," Ronin replied with a soft snort, before he turned to his side and pulled Hanako closer.
"Please and thank you," Hana chirped. She pressed a kiss to the hollow of his throat and let her eyes drift shut. "This is good," she mumbled sleepily.
"Look at you, all civilized," Ronin muttered with a soft grin, taking a deep breath and pulling her closer. "It is."
"I don't know what you mean," Hana sniffed. "I am a perfect lady." She nuzzled against him a little closer to kiss his neck.
"Ofcourse you are," Ronin said with a hint of cheek to his voice.
Hana shoved his shoulder with a quick laugh. "Watch yourself," she growled playfully, rolling over to put her back to him. "None of your sass, great warrior."
Ronin pulled her closer and hugged her from behind. "What? I agreed with you, didn't I?" He said, not being able to surpress the soft smirk.
"There was definite cheek," Hana retorted, but she was unable to keep the smile from her voice.
Pressing back against him a little more, she reached up to gently grasp his arm around her and let her eyes slide closed.
"Was there?" Ronin answered with a soft and content hum. He gave her an acknowledging squeeze before bringing his free hand up to pull the blindfold off. "Sweet dreams," he murmured softly, closing his eyes aswell.
"And you," Hana whispered as she drifted off.
Thankfully, if she had any nightmares she didn't remember them when she woke the next morning. She smiled, twisting in Ronin's arms to cuddle against him and kiss his cheek softly.
"Morning."
Ronin stirred woth a soft grunt to the kiss on his cheek. "Morning," he replied with a.soft yawn before he put a hand on her shoulder and squeezed her. Ronin sat up and stretched slowly. "Hrrm. I'll have to get back to excercising," he murmured to himself.
The kitsune suddenly grinned wickedly. "I could help with that," she purred and leaned up and wrap her arms languidly around him from behind. Her head nudged against his shoulder and her hands slipped around to stroke lightly down his chest to his stomach.
Ronin let out a soft smirk at the sudden touch. "I didn't mean that kind of excercice," he answered with a soft chuckle.
Hana mock pouted and kissed the back of his neck. "You're no fun," she whispered against his ear as she nuzzled into him.
"I never said I didn't want this," Ronin retorted, "it just doesn't hone my swordmanship."
A smirk worked its way across her mouth. "I think that depends on which sword you mean, love," Hana teased, skimming her hand down to teasingly dance across the front of his breeches.
Ronin let out a soft groan. "So help me god," he replied with a soft grin, before turning slightly and pressing a kiss to her forehead.
She giggled and crinkled her nose. "I didn't hear a no," Hana pointed out smugly, but she did let her hand slide back up to rest more chastely against his chest.
"I never said no," Ronin replied with a soft murmur. "But your answer was completely expected," he answered with a soft chuckle. "You're getting predictable, perverted fox"
"Oh, I am?" Hana sniffed and put her back to him. "Fine. Maybe I'll just go down and get breakfast then," she said, tossing her hair over her shoulder.
Ronin let out a soft chuckle as he turned to her. "Such a tease," he answered as he hugged her from behind, cupping her chest with a soft kiss in the crook of her neck.
She gave a soft, purring sort of hum and arched her back to press into his hands. "What was that? I couldn't quite make it out," Hana snipped as she reached back to cup him through his breeches.
"What was what?" He answered with a soft chuckle, softly pressing his hips forward against her, giving her breasts a soft squeeze.
Hana let out a shuddering sigh and twisted around to face him. "And you say I'm a tease," she huffed as she trailed her hands over his back and pressed forward to kiss his neck.
"Oh, so you did hear." Ronin let out a soft chuckle. He pulled her closer, before gently laying her down on the bed again. "Any preferences?" He inquired with a soft chuckle.
Her expression suddenly softened, the teasing glint in her eyes replaced with a soft glow of affection. "I promised, didn't I?" she whispered, reaching up to cup his cheek. "This time we'll do things right."
Hana leaned up to kiss him, soft and loving. "Just love me, Daisuke," she urged quietly. "However you want. Whatever feels right."
Ronin answered the soft and loving kiss with an equal amount of tenderness, before softly pushing her body down and breaking the kiss, pressing several kisses on her throat, then collarbone. Slosly moving down.
"Mmm..." Hana hummed quietly as a delicious shiver ran through her body. She reached up to glide her fingers through his hair and gently urge his kisses lower. "Just like that, love," she murmured, eyes fluttered closed with a blissful sigh.
Somewhere around the bottom of her ribcage, Ronin dragged his tongue down to her bellybutton, before placing descending kisses, even slower than before. Smirking softly.
The kitsune arched up against him and groaned quietly. "Such a tease," she murmured, breath starting to come in sharp little pants as she resisted the urge to guide his mouth lower.
Ronin gave her stomach, right above her womanhood, a long kiss, before he moved down again. His fingers hooked at the hem of her underwear and he slowly pulled it down.
Ronin slowly dragged his tongue down her folds, before licking upwards again.
"Mmmmmhhh..." Hana's whole body shivered with delight and her hands clenched in the sheets to either side of her. "Oh, Daisuke," she whispered, resisting the urge to buck against him. "So good, love...keep going, please."
Ronin smirked briefly, before heading back to the ministrations to Hanako's womanhood.
The kitsune keened quietly and clenched her eyes shut against the little waves of pleasure surging through her that were gradually growing in intensity. She murmured his name breathlessly, trying not to writhe beneath his attentions but really just unable to keep herself still.
After a short while, Ronin sat up and laid down next to Kitsune, pulling her ontop of him. "Ready?" He asked with a soft pant, pulling his own underwear down.
Hana answered by reaching between them to stroke him for a moment before sliding down onto him with a soft moan.
She leaned down to kiss the center of his chest, grinding her hips in a small circle against his.
Ronin stat up slightly, groaning softly as his hand clawed at the sheets. He out his free hand.on Hana's shoulder and tried to catch her lips in a soft, passionate kiss.
She tilted her head up to return the kiss as she started to rock her hips against him gently. "Tell me what you want," Hana encouraged quietly when they broke apart, moving her lips to nurse at the curve of his neck and shoulder.
Ronin let out several soft grunts and pants in the kiss, letting out a heated smile at Hana's question. "Just you," he whispered softly.
Hana smiled against his skin. "Then I'm yours." She started to lift and fall on him, gently at first but with a growing intensity.
Ronin let out several heated groans and sharp pants as Hanako started to move up and down in his lap. "I love you," he murmured softly as his hands wrapped around Hana's waist to guide her movements.
"And I you."
Hana smirked and suddenly rolled them over so Ronin was on top of her. "But I don't wanna do all the work." Her hand stroked down his back gently, then scooted lower to grab his ass.
"C'mon, Daisuke. Show me what you've got."
A soft, breathy chuckle escaped him. "Playful," he murmured softly as he sat up. Grabbing her hips and lifting her waist slightlt, before thrusting forward quickly, already starting with a decent pace, only to pick it up with several loud groans.
Hana laughed. "Are you surprised?" she chuckled, then gasped quietly as he started thrusting into her more intensely.
"Mm, just like that, love," she breathed with a soft moan of encouragement. Her back arched to press herself closer against him and tilted her head to nip playfully at his collar.
"Not at all," Ronin replied with a heated smirk, before sucking in a deep breath. He kept going at the same pace Hanako approved off, letting out small pants and groans
One of hands slipped down to her buttocks, softly trailing down. He gave a soft squeeze just above the back of her knee. "How agile are you?" Ronin inquired with a husky whisper.
One of her eyebrow's arched and she smirked, wriggling her hips into his touch when she had the chance.
"Pretty agile," she crooned, pressing a trail of kisses up his chest to his neck. "Do what you want with me, love. I can take it."
It was almost a challenge with her tone.
Ronin let out a breathy chuckle. "I just.. Don't want to hurt you," he said with a deep groan. Ronin softly pulled her leg up, putting it against his chest, pressing a soft kiss against her calf as he proceeded to thruzt against her.
"Mmm!" Hana tossed her head back and dug her fingers into his back as she rolled her hips up against his.
"That's it, Daisuke," she groaned. Taking his idea a bit further, she hooked her other leg up against his chest so she was nearly bent in half as he thrust into her.
"Hana," he groaned her name out softly, "oh fuck Hana," he murmured with another groan as he wrapped one arm around her legs, the other resting on her hip. The grip on her legs allowed him to speed up, which he did. "I'm going to," he groaned with a ragged breath, "where?" He inquired all of a sudden, sweat glistening on his brow.
She knew what her answer should be to that, but somehow found herself panting, "Don't- don't leave me."
Hana's back suddenly arched and she tightened around him as she came with a sharp cry, skin damp and glistening while her nails dug into his forearms.
Ronin let out a deep groan. His grip around her legs tightened when he climaxed inside of her, her name ripped from his lips with a deep and ragged breath.
Hana threw back her head and gave a keening moan as she felt him spill inside her. She squirmed and arched up under him and suddenly she came again with a sharp cry.
Ronin panted softly as he pressed several faint kisses against one of her legs. "Sorry," he murmured softly after her second orgasm.
"Why?" Hana panted when she'd gotten her breath back a bit. She slowly lowered her legs and reached up to cup his face in her hands. "That- that was amazing, love."
Ronin took a deep breath as she felt Hanako's hands against her face. "Inside-" he said breathlessly. "I came inside.."
The kitsune shrugged slightly and nuzzled into the curve of his neck. "I told you to," she murmured. "Not your fault."
Besides, she was hardly the most virtuous person in the world, and she had yet to get with child from any of her previous partners- she sort of figured it might not be possible with someone who wasn't her own kind.
Ronin tool another deep breath in an attempt to get his breath back, turningbto rest next to Hanako. "What if you get pregnant?" He inquired with a soft pant.
She turned onto her side to face him and kissed his forehead softly. "I don't think I will," Hana murmured. "I haven't yet, so..."
She shrugged. "I'm thinking I'll buy a charm in the market today though. Something to make sure that doesn't happen, just to be safe."
Ronin nodded softly and hugged her closer kissing her nose softly. "Alright."
Hana smiled and crinkled her nose happily. Two of her tails swung around to drape over his legs and she nuzzled into his chest.
"We should get up soon," she murmured. "Get something to eat, run a few errands..."
"Train actual swordsmanship," Ronin added with a soft chuckle. "Get new armour," he smirked. "The list goes on."
Hana giggled, then pushed herself up onto her elbows with a small sigh. "Then I guess we'd better get started."
She dipped to kiss him quickly, then sat up. "Come on. Let's clean up a bit and get moving."
Ronin nodded softly, sitting up as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Alright."
The kistune crossed the room to a small basin of water and dabbed herself off, then quickly pulled her kimono back on.
She moved to the door and glanced back over her shoulder, waiting for Ronin to join her.
Ronin put his clothes on and walked towards the door, smiling gently as he pushed it open.
Hana led them down to the common room and ordered them some breakfast- a decent enough porridge seasoned with some sort of cinnamon or nutmeg maybe.
After eating, she got to her feet and leaned in to kiss Ronin's cheek. "I'm going to check the markets then. You'll be alright on your own?"
Logically she knew that he'd gotten along very well without her for most of his life, but she couldn't help being concerned.
Ronin followed her down and ate a tad lighter of a breakfast. He let out a soft smile as she kissed his cheek. "I'll be fine. Meet here at sunset?"
She nodded and smiled, lifting his hand to her lips so he could feel it. "Okay. See you soon."
Hana pecked his cheek again, then swished her way out of the inn and back onto the streets of the city.
She found the section of the market that sold magical goods easily enough. First she asked around for someone who may be able to help her and Ronin with their magical tie, but- not entirely surprisingly- no one seemed to know what to do about it.
"See you later," Ronin replied as she left.
After several minutes, Ronin stood up aswell and headed into the forest to catch up on his training. Several hours later, he surfaced again and headed to the market, asking the first person he met for the best armourer in town.
After the instructions were given, he nodded his thanks and left for the 'Steel Stag'.
Though Hana couldn't find anyone to help with their magical mix up, she did manage to find an older woman who sold a variety of charms. She purchased a threaded bracelet laced with herbs and a simple spell that was meant to essentially render her sterile as long as she wore it.
That task accomplished, the kistune spent a few more hours wandering around Cerenis, picking her way through the markets and even performing a few tricks with her fire on a street corner to earn some extra coin.
By the time sunset rolled around she had made her way back to the inn and was perched by the hearth in the main room, nursing a mug of cider and watching the flames.
So much measuring. It took up most of his day. Yet, right before sunset, the tailor, leatherworker and blacksmith were done working with Ronin. It was kight, felt comfortable and most of all, protected his sword arm and other vital parts of his body. Having payed the last of his coins, he walked back to the inn completely broke. Yet glances of awe were cast at the half orc samurai.
He entered the inn again. A soft shift in his magical signature as he activated his clairvoyance to find Hanako. After he located the Kitsune, he stepped next to her and smiled softly. "May I?" He inquired with a soft chuckle as he sat down.next to her. His legs, chest and right arm were armoured by several light, lamelled steel plates. Richly decorated with crimson cloth and golden finishes. It looked like a masterwork. His left shoulder and part of his left chest was bare, revealing his muscled arm and chest. The shoulderpad on his right arm was the mask he recieved from the Anomaly.
"So. Next up, Kunata?" He asked as he rested his hand on the hilt of his sword.
Hana glanced up as she heard Ronin's voice and her eyes widened fractionally. "Please," she chuckled, shifting over so he could sit beside her.
Her eyes roamed over his form and her lips curved up on one smile. "Very official," she praised, leaning in to kiss his cheek lightly. "My brave warrior."
Lowering my her voice, she trailed her lips closer to his ear to add in a playful purr, "Makes me want to rip that armor off- but I have a feeling you wouldn't be too pleased with me."
Ronin smirked. "The tattered cloak was becoming a tad too tattered," he said with the same soft smirk.
He arched his eyebrow at her whispering, frowning slowly. "I'd be sad, it was told it looked very nice." He said, putting an arm around her shoulder and pulling her closer with a soft chuckle.
"Oh, it does." Hana smirked. "I just think you look better naked."
She nuzzled a little closer to let her head rest against his shoulder. "So. What's this job of yours in Kunata?"
"That's your opinion," Ronin replied with a murmur, before taking a deep breath. "Opressed village. Some kind of warlord is currently ruling over them."
The kitsune frowned. "I don't like bullies," she muttered.
Shaking her head, she added in a slightly more even tone, "There's a ship leaving first thing in the morning, I asked around at the docks."
Ronin nodded slowly. "Than we're taking that," he answered with a soft smile. "Once there, we will see about contactong the village."
"Alright." Hana gave a dramatic yawn and wrapped one of her tails around his waist. "We should probably head to bed now then."
Feeling cheeky, she nuzzled into his neck with a purred, "What are the chances of you carrying me?"
Ronin arched an eyebrow as Hanako purred in his neck, having stood up with her without a word. He smirked softly and raised her over his unarmoured shoulder with one arm, letting.out a.soft laugh.
Hana gave a squeak of surprise, then laughed. "You know, this isn't exactly what I had in mind," she chuckled through a pout.
((Autocorrect? :P))
Ronin smirked. "You never specified," he retorted as he escalated the flight of stairs.
[oh shoot! Yes -.-]
She snorted and rolled her eyes. "Watch yourself, Ronin," she growled playfully, using his title instead of his name.
((Made me chuckle))
"How possibly could I watch myself, Hanako." He snorted softly. "I am a blind man."
She snorted. "You are a cheeky man," she retorted. "You know what I meant."
She twisted around to kiss the back of his head, wiggling in his grip. "If we're near the bed, you can put me down now."
Ronin let out a soft chuckle, deciding to not push his luck any further. He pushed the door open and Pmput Hanako down. "There we are." He said with another chuckle.
The kitsune chuckled and skipped her way over to perch on the bed. "I did some shopping of my own today," she chirped suddenly. "Got one of those charms I was talking about..."
Her voice trailed off suggestively.
"I see," Ronin answered as he pulled the sheathe of his boade from his hip. "That's good," he murmured with a soft smirk.
"Mhm..." She rose up into her hand and knees, swishing her tails behind her. "Should make things easier...and maybe a little more fun," Hana said with a smirk.
Ronin let out a soft sigh as he pulled the armour off. "You're exceptionally eager today," he murmured with a soft grin.
Hana mock pouted at him, crimson eyes glinting. "Aw, you say that like its a bad thing."
"Never intented to," Ronin retorted with a chuckle as he sat down on the bed. "Tomorrow we're leaving for Kunata, by the way."
"Mhm." She moved forward to wrap her arms around his middle and nuzzle into his side. "How long is the trip, anyway?" the kitsune asked as she tilted her head to press a soft kiss to his cheek.
"By ship? I think a week or two, then we'll have to travel by foot through the mainland to reach the village." Ronin let out a soft smirk as he turned to face Hanako, returningba soft peck on her lips.
Hana kissed him back gently, then gave a dramatic little pout. "That's an awful lot of travel," she noted, brushing her nose against his. "After this, you should take a vacation."
"A hero takes no vacation," Ronin said with an overly dramatised smirk.
"Aw, c'mon." She pouted and let herself flop across his lap, ears and tails flicking back and forth. She reached up to stroke her fingertips over his jaw and neck lightly. "Not even a few days? Imagine a nice little cabin, all alone, relaxing..."
Ronin chuckled. "That sounds pleasant," he hummed in agreement.
Hana grinned. "Right?" She leaned up to wrap her arms around his neck and pulled him in for a soft kiss.
Trailing kisses down to his neck, she nuzzled against him with a soft hum. "Why don't you get your armor off so we can go to bed?" she suggested quietly.
Ronin answered the kiss by pulling Hanako up slowly, before chuckling at her suggestion. "Ofcourse," he whispered as he pulled the arm and chestguard off slowly.
The kistune twisted around to help him get the armor off, letting her hands trail over his chest and shoulders.
"Gods. You're a girl's fantasy, ya know that?" she purred quietly and pressed a kiss to his collar.
"Seeing that I'm not a girl," Ronin chuckled softly, "no." He ran a soft thumb across her cheek, pressing forward to kiss her lips softly.
Hana chuckled and parted her lips into the kiss with a soft sigh.
"I still can't believe you never had anyone before me," she mumbled between light kisses.
"I'm that charming?" Ronin inquired with a soft chuckle as he pulled her on his lap, pressing another softx yet deeper kiss on her lips again.
She giggled against his lips. "That, and you're built like an ox," she purred. She wriggled around on his lap to settle her knees on either side of his hips and cupped his face in her hands as she leaned into another kiss.
Ronin smirked softly under the kiss, before partings his lips, hands having found occupation around her waist.
Hana flicked her tongue out and nipped lightly at his bottom lip with quiet, playful growl. She wrapped two of her tails around to brush against his legs as the other swayed lightly behind her. She rolled her hips against his slowly, teasingly.
One of his hands moved up to caress the base of her tails. Ronin let out a soft grunt in the kiss, suckling on her upper lip softly, tracing it with his own tongue.
She shivered delightedly and pressed back into his touch slightly. "Wanna get these off?" Hana murmured, tugging at his breeches and shirt.
"I don't have a choice," Ronin murmured into the kiss, before smirking softly, breaking it and leaning back to pull his shirt off, before locking his lips with Hana's again, still caressing the base of her tails.
Hana hummed quietly into the kiss and pulled at the tie of her kimono to let it fall open, slipping off her shoulders.
"You always have a choice," she murmured with a small smirk. She traced one hand over the planes of his torso. "Do you choose me?"
"Ofcourse," he answered with a soft smile, leaning back slightly. "It goes without saying."
He lowered and pressed a soft, warm kiss in the crook of her neck.
She purred happily and her tail arched up behind her back, letting her head loll to the side to expose more skin.
Her hands traveled down to his hips, then she slipped one into his clothes to stroke her fingers down his length lightly.
Ronin smirked at the gesture, further paying ministrations to her neck, letting out a hitched gasp as she felt slender fingers caressing his girth. Causing him to pinch her tails lightly.
"Ah!" Hana's back arched and she crooned low in her throat. "I take it you like this, then," she murmured teasingly, wrapping her fingers around him and starting to pump her hand up and down.
Ronin grunted loudly, softly bucking his hips before he dragged his tongue across Hanako's shoulder, to her jawline. "Yes," he murmured as he pressed a soft kiss under her ealobe.
"Mmm." She grinned. "Good." She lifted her other hand to pull at the hem of his breeches, working them down over his hips to give her more room to work as she took him more firmly in hand.
Slowly, she tipped onto her side and pulled Ronin with her. Tilting her head to kiss the underside of his jaw, she whispered, "Tell me something you've always wanted to do. What's your fantasy, Daisuke?"
Ronin let out a sharp gasp as Hanako gripped him tightly, hips bucking softly. He followed her down and laid down on his side. "I.. I don't know," he murmured betweeb pants. "I never really had time.. To fantasize.."
Hana smiled and shrugged the rest of the way out of her clothes. "I suppose I'm not really surprised," she murmured teasingly. "You know, in a lot of ways you're too innocent for your own good."
She trailed her lips down to his neck and rolled her hips forward against his, adjusting her grip so she could grind against his length.
"You know you love it," Ronin replied with a soft croon. "Ah-ooh," he groaned between pants, hips bucking gently against her.
"Mmh-" Hana bit her lip and shuddered. "I do," she agreed quietly. "I really do."
Not willing to wait any longer, she lined them up and bucked her hips forward to envelop him with a soft groan.
Ronin let out a groan in unison with Hanako, breathing softly, this time, deciding to let her take lead. "Once.. You used your mouth," he said breathlessly. Stammering quite clearly.
"Oh?" Hana smirked a bit and pulled away from him, then slipped down to trail kisses from his chest down his stomach. "You mean this?" She licked along his length lightly.
Ronin let out a rather loud grunt as she felt Hanako dragging her tongue across his girth. He gave a shaky nod before letting a.deep breath escape. "Y-yes.. That was good.."
She grinned, thrilled to have found something he seemed to particularly like, and set about licking him quite enthusiastically, pressing the occasional kiss along his shaft and sucking gently on the tip of him.
Ronin's breath turned to ragged pants and sharp gasps, his hips softly pushing forward as Hana sucked the tip. "Hana-That feels.. God.." He murmured breathlessly.
The kitsune hummed, rather pleased with herself, and bobbed her head down to take as much of him into her mouth as she could..
She pulled back slowly, twirling her tongue around him and sucking as she did. "Gods, you're so big," she purred quietly, reaching a hand up to pump along his length as she bobbed her head down again.
Ronin let out a series of grunts and moans to the ministrations. He let out a breathy chuckle as she told him he was rather big. "Built like an ox, wasn't it?" He replied, sentence hitched by desperate gasps for air.
Yet, he let out another soft moan and grit his teeth. "Like that," he bit out as he rested a hand on Hanako's head. "Like that, Hana.." He murmured softly.
Her ears twitched back and forth a bit and she dipped her head lower, taking him in to the hilt. With a soft grunt for the effort, she closed her eyes and suckled at him, clenching her hands on his hips to hold him still as she worked.
Ronin let out a loud moan as his length was practically swallowed whole. He took several deep breaths. "How did.. Hana," he panted loudly. "A-amazing.. Hana.."
Hana hummed around him, rather smug, and slipped one hand around to cup him as she let her mouth work along his shaft.
The hum was too much. He let out another soft moan. "Hana.. Fuck.. I'm.going to.." He bucked his lips forward all of a sudden, shaft twitching as he came.
Hana squeezed her eyes shut and worked her mouth down to swallow him whole again, swallowing as he came. Her nails bit into his hips and she was breathing rather heavily through her nose as she worked him through his climax, then slowly pulled back.
Ronin let out deep, sharp pants as a shiver went down his spine. "Hana.." The name was ripped frop his lips as he let out a grunt when she pulled back slowly.
The kistune smiled and leaned up to kiss him gently. "I take it you liked that," she purred against his lips, jut a little smug.
Ronin let out a soft and shakey nod. Still too overwhelmed for words.
Hana nuzzled into his neck. "You wanna return the favor?" she whispered after a moment, nipping lightly at his throat.
Taking a deep breath to collect himself again, Ronin swallowed heavily, before nodding. "You want me to return the favour?" He added with a smirk.
She chuckled quietly. "Hell yes." Hana's ears flicked back and forth, brushing against his neck. She slid her hands up to tangle in his hair and pulled him in for a quick, fierce kiss.
Ronin let out a breathless chuckle in the kiss, breaking it and pressing a soft kiss on her neck, before sitting up on his knees. He grabbed her ankles and pulled her legs over his shoulders with barely any effort. A soft smirk as he wrapped his arms around her legs and pulled her closer. "So. Return the favour it is," he murmured as he pressed forward with a slow lick across her folds. His grip tightened to lock her legs down against his shoulders.
"Eep!"
Hana clapped a hand over her mouth too late to muffle the squeak and glared, daring him to comment. But then he was licking her and her eyes rolled back slightly, lashes fluttering. She gave a soft moan of encouragement, doing her best to nudge her hips up against him.
He let out a soft smirk at her reaction, but immedaitly went back to his ministrations.
After several licks, he pressed a soft kiss on where he believed her clitoris to be, prodding his tongue against the bud of nerves.
Hana's back arched, pressing her hips against his mouth, and she whimpered, gasping. "O-oh dear gods!"
Her hands clenched in the sheets and she panted lightly, tails whipping back and forth quite without her making the conscious decision to do so.
Her moans and cries only spurred him on further, pushing his tongue past her labia and start licking her insides.
Hana groaned low in her throat and bit her lip hard enough to draw blood. "Daisuke," she whimpered, squirming under his attentions. "H-holy gods...Daisuke."
Stopping was the last thing he would do, he kept licking Hanako furiously, at the same time prodding and sucking the same small bud of nerves.
"A-ah- ohhh..." Hana's body suddenly bowed out as his ministrations sent her crashing over the edge with a sharp cry. Her nails tore into the sheets and she practically shrieked, "Daisuke!"
Ronin kept going even when she came, only lifting his head several seconds later. "Favour returned?" He askwed with a soft smile.
His persistence drove her climax to linger, so when she finally started to come down from the high the kitsune was panting and whimpering slightly.
"Yes," she purred breathlessly, her whole body shivering a bit. "Oh dear gods, yes." She let her legs slip down and fall to either side of him, reaching up to grip his shoulders and pull him down to her.
He pressed a soft kiss on her nose as he was pulled down, softly rubbing his girth against her sex. "Now.." He murmured with a soft and breathless chuckle.
Hana bucked her hips up to meet him, tilting her head back to claim his lips heatedly. "Yes," she whispered. "Now. Please, Daisuke."
And without any hesitation, Ronin angled himself and slammed into Hanako, pressing his lips down on hers and parting in the kiss.
"Ah-! Ooohhh..." Hana threw her head back and moaned to the ceiling, writhing up under him to slam their hips together. "Yes, Daisuke," she hissed. "More, please..."
"As you wish.." He bit out under a soft grunt, starting to speed up the forceful thrusts. At the same time, he began teasing her neck with his tongue.
Hana groaned and tilted her head to offer better access to her neck. "Just like that," she purred as she arched her back to press up against his chest. Her nails dragged lightly down his back.
His arms wrapped around her arched back and pulled her closer as he kept thrusting back and forth at the same pace. His ministrations to her neck stopped briefly as he let out a soft grunt. "Hana," he murmured her name. "Coming.." He hissed between his teeth as his movements seemed to hitch momentarily.
"Yes," Hana moaned, writhing up under him and throwing her legs around his waist. "Let go, Daisuke," she panted, a moment before she went sailing over the edge and clamped down on him with a wail of pleasure.
Ronin panted sharply, letting out deep groans and grunts as he came inside of Hanako. His movements hitched and jarred. But he didn't stop pounding her in the slightest.
"O-oh..." She stared up at him, panting. "Someone's energetic today," Hana teased breathlessly, rolling her hips up to meet him.
"Do I hear complaints?" Ronin grunted out the question with another forcefuk slam.
"I wouldn't- ah!- dream of it," Hana gasped out, tossing her head back with a breathy groan. "Oh gods, I'm so close- just a little more, love, please!"
Ronin let out another groan as he let out a heated gein. "You're tightening, dear," he murmured under his breath. After a short while, he let out sharp pants as his movements hitched again.
And he thrust forward one last time, trying to push himself as deep as possible when he came.
"C-can't help it- oohhh, Daisuke!" She arched her back, changing the angle of her hips to take him as deep as she could as she went tumbling over the edge.
Shivering in the aftershocks, Hana collapsed back to the bed and stared up at him, panting. She twined her arms around his neck and pulled him in for a tired kiss.
"Hana..-" he sucked in a deep breath as he came, letting out desperate pants to catch his breath again. A sheen of sweat was visible on his body.
She pulled him down for a tired kiss. Ronin broke it before swallowing heavily, resting his forehead against hers.
Hana smiled and closed her eyes, nuzzling into his neck. "Love you," she murmured quietly as she let out a long, tired breath.
She chuckled. "Gods, I could sleep for a week."
"I love you too," he murmured softly as he rolled away from her, hugging her closely.
She smiled and pressed her face into his neck with a happy little purr. "Get some sleep," she murmured. "We have to be up early to catch that boat."
Ronin nodded with a soft sigh. "Just have to catch my breath first," he replied as he closed his eyes.
Hana couldn't help giggling, though she was a still a little breathless herself. "I'm just that good, huh?" she teased quietly with a soft kiss to his shoulder.
"Hmm, I'd say I've bed better," he smirked coyly. "But you know it's a lie."
The kistune gave a strangely delicate snort. "Damn straight." She wrapped her arms around his neck and snuggled against him, closing her eyes. "I'm the best you're ever gonna get," she sniffed, lips twitching into a lopsided grin.
"Aren't you humble," Ronin answered with a faint chuckle.
"Well, if I have anything to say about it, you'll never find out," Hana pointed out primly. "You're mine, Daisuke. You're stuck with just me." Her voice was teasing, but there was a tiny, possessive sort of growl embedded in her tone.
"And thus, today was the day a fox spirit laid claim to my soul," Ronin answered with another soft chuckle.
"Oh, don't be so dramatic," Hana laughed. "Besides, I claimed your soul days ago," she added teasingly, curling up into his chest and letting her eyes slide closed.
"Hm, true," Ronin answered as he yawned, slowly drifting off.
When she was almost positive he was asleep, Hana tilted her head back to kiss him softly. "And you have mine," she whispered, feeling her cheeks flush as she let herself drift toward unconsciousness.
Ronin stirred slightly at the kiss, but didn't wake.
Hana slept long and deep, though she managed to wake just before dawn. She sat up with a yawn and a stretch, blinking as she looked around.
"Daisuke." She shook his shoulder lightly. "C'mon, love, get up. We should get moving."
Ronin sat up at Hana's urging and yawned. "Let's go," he murmured.
((Fast forward to Kunata mainland?))
[Works for me!]
Hana giggled and ruffled his hair, unable to help herself. "Of we go then," she chirped as she whirled around the room to pack their things up.
The ship they managed to secure passage on was a trading vessel, with a few more stops scheduled along the Serenian coast. They were at sea for just over two weeks.
The first week passed extremely slowly. There was nothing to do on such a ship. So after several days, Ronin started to train again. Seemed like the wobbly floor of the ship made for an excellent challenge ontop of his regime.
And soon, other passengers and members of the crew came to admire him. Some of the children even assisted him in his training during his pushups. Happily to do so.
And after a solid week, Ronin started to teach people who were interested on how to defend themselves from yout average brigand.
Yet, everything came to an end and soon, both Ronin and Hanako stood on the docks. The ship leaving for Cerenis again.
"So here we are," Ronin said as he put an arm around Hanako's shoulders.
The kitsune leaned into him slightly as she looked up at him with a smile.
"Here we are," she agreed softly. As much as she usually disliked travel by boat, she found she was a little wistful to see the vessel departing. The weeks they'd spent on the ship had been a sort of dispensing of normality, allowing them to relax.
"So, directly to the village?" Ronin asked with a soft smirk.
"Mhm." She stretched her arms over her head with a sigh, then leaned up to peck his cheek. "C'mon. The sooner we get this taken care of, the sooner we can take that vacation," she teased lightly.
Ronin nodded,"another week lf travel and we'll have reached the village." Ronin answered, rolling his shoulders. "Let's go."
Hana nodded and laced her fingers through his as they started off. A week of travel wasn't so bad- she was used to such things.
For some reason though, even just a day of walking proved to be near exhausting to her. She was finding it difficult to catch her breath, though she tried to hide it as best she could. She didn't want to slow them down.
Hanako was pretty good at hiding it. Ronin didn't seem to notice it for the time being.
After three days of travel, during noon, the pair was walking down an earthern road, before Ronin stopped. A dark figure, completely clad in black armour that was similair to Ronin's samurai armour stood in the middle of the road. Barring their passage.
Hana jerked to a halt as they saw the figure. The hair on the back of her neck stood up and she felt her tails arch up stiffly behind her, ears flattening back against her skull.
A low growl started up in her chest. "Daisuke," she hissed. "Is...is that...?"
"It isn't," Ronin answered as he pulled his hand from Hana's. "The aura isn't present," he explained as he stepped forward, hand on the katana. "Hail warrior," Ronin started.
The dark warrior nodded curtly. "State your bussiness, travelers. You enter Warlord's Kumiko's lands."
Hana allowed herself to relax, just slightly. At least a mortal adversary she could deal with.
Could kill, if she needed to.
She kept quiet and shifted a little closer to Ronin, one of her tails brushing against his legs.
"Tell your warlord that I challenge him," Ronin said as his blade clicked from the sheathe. "After I defeat you, return to him and report a Ronin is hunting him. And tell him I won't be as merciful as I was with you," Taking a final step away from Hanako, he pulled the sword from his sheathe and held it up in an offensive stance.
The dark warrior clicked his tongue. "Strong words from a dishonoured," he replied as he followed Ronin's exemple, facing off against the blind warrior.
Hana felt herself tense as Ronin challenged the other warrior. She took a step forward, then hesitated. She may not entirely understand his honor code, but she had a feeling he wouldn't want her interfering in this fight.
Reluctantly, she stepped back, murmuring, "I trust you, Daisuke. Be safe."
"Ofcourse," he murmured, before glancing over at the warrior.
A short bout later, Ronin stood above the warrior, who kneeled and clutched to his arm, blood running down. "The wakizashi," he stated, "that is the item I will kill your master with."
The man glanced up and pulled the smaller sheathe from his side and threw it to Ronin's side. He put his foot down on the sword and pulled up a flask of water, taking a deep swig and spraying the water in his sword over his bloodied blade to clean it.
"Begone," he stated. Voice harsh and cold. The man nodded and left down the path.
Hana let out a breath she hadn't realized she'd been holding as Ronin stood above his opponent. She waited until the man had started on his way before rushing to the half-orc's side.
"Are you alright?" Her hands skimmed over him, searching for injury. "You're not hurt, are you?"
"I didn't get hurt," Ronin replied as he ducked through his knees to grab the shorted blade, unsheathing it slightly. A light hum of energy emnanating from it. Ronin smirked softly. "He didn't even know which sword he was carrying around."
"What is it?" Hana tilted her head at the blade, ears pricking up at that strange humming feeling she usually got around magic.
"An ancient sword, forged back in the first era of the warring states. Among those warring states was my clan, the Shizuka. But also the Akimoto clan. One of the former rival's. This is one of the swords their first head used. And it had been passed down." He smirked softly as he pushed the blade back in the scabbard again. "Since time immemorial."
She gave a low whistle. "Fancy knife." She shook her head once, then glanced down the path. "We're getting close then, huh?"
"We're already in his territory. And they all know already. This one was sent to get rid of us," Ronin answered, sighing as he.strapped the sword to his belt.
"Sooo..." Hana looked around warily. "Do we just...wait for him to send someone else?"
"No," Ronin started. "We go to the village that contacted us and set up there. After we have disrupted their movements enough, I will stand up to challenge the warlord."
She nodded. "Let's keep moving then."
The kistune started off, but she hadn't gotten very far before her pace slowed. She frowned, a hand going to her stomach. She felt nauseous. "Um, Daisuke? H-hang on a second..."
She darted off the road and suddenly retched into the bushes. It was honestly a little terrifying for her- she only rarely got sick.
Ronin arched an eyebrow as she ran off into the brush,m. He frowned and walked over, putting his hands on her shoulders and holding her hair back. "Ssh.. Are you alright," he said with a hushing tone.
Panting, Hana sat back with a frown and spit in an attempt to get the taste of bile out of her mouth. "I- I don't know," she admitted, one hand still pressed to her belly. "It just sort of...snuck up on me."
She stood slowly, cautiously. "I feel alright now though..." This was weird. When had they last eaten? No, no, that couldn't be it- if it was something she ate, Ronin would be sick too.
"Let's- let's just keep moving," she mumbled after a moment, grabbing at her water flask and swishing the liquid in her mouth to try to clean it a bit.
"Perhaps the change of atmosphere?" Ronin suggested as he helped her standing up. "Here, I'll carry you," he offered as he die t her off of her feet, treading down the path again.
"You don't have to- oh!" Hana squeak quietly as she was swept up in his arms, tensing for a moment before she settled.
"You're being overprotective," she informed him with a small smile, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I can walk fine."
"Perhaps so," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle. "But normally you beg me to carry you," he answered with a chuckle.
"Well, yeah." She smirked. "But that's when you're carrying me to bed. Or something equivalent." She nuzzled into his neck and kissed the underside of his jaw lightly.
"You're enjoying this, don't lie," Ronin answered with a soft smirk.
"Maybe a little," Hana laughed, nuzzling her head into the curve of his shoulder. "And I gotta admit, I've been getting tired more often lately, so this is nice..." She frowned. "Maybe I really am getting sick," she mumbled.
"Well, I'll take care of you if you do," Ronin replied with a soft chuckle. "Just don't infect me," he followed up with a soft grin.
"Well that's romantic," Hana teased. She let her head flop into his shoulder and muttered, "Wake me if I have to burn someone," letting her eyes drift closed.
"I will," Ronin answered as he walked down the path.
After several hours, they'd arrive in the village and shake Hanako slightly to wake her up.
"Mmmph." Hana squirmed around a bit and blinked her eyes open reluctantly. "We're here?" she murmured around a yawn, ears drooping sleepily and tails sort of dragging toward the ground.
"Yes we are," he replied with a soft chuckle. "We have to meet with the elder, think you can walk?"
"Mhm." She nodded and squirmed out of his arms, covering another yawn with her hand. "So where's this elder person?" She peered around curiously.
"His house, ofcourse." Ronin answered, chuckling softly. "Let me do the word," he said as he put an arm around her shoulder and walked to a house, knocking the door and entering, before pulling off his boots and proceeding thriugh the room.
Already barefoot, Hana tried to scrub the soles of her feet on her legs briefly as she followed Ronin into the house. She kept quiet, though glanced around with unabashed curiosity.
It was small and rather sober, yet at the same time, it looked very homely.
A man rose from his kneeling position at a nearby table and nodded at the two. "Ronin?" He inquired. Daisuke nodded. "That would be me," he answered as he sat down on his knees at the table after bowing to the man, who returned the gesture and kneeled down aswell. "You asked for me?" Ronin fished, trying to get the conversation started.
It had been a long time since Hana had followed such formalities, but she bowed in turn before she settled herself beside Ronin, hands folded demurely in her lap and eyes downcast. Her tails wrapped around her legs and she shifted slightly to settle herself.
"This woman, is she your-?" The man inquired and Ronin nodded. "My lover. Is this an issue?" Theelder glanced at Hanako briefly. He was rather old, before shaking his head. "As long as it does not distract you," he answered. Ronin nodded slowly.
"Now, this Kumiko, how do we disrupt his rule?" Ronin inquired.
Hana frowned a bit at the idea that she might be a "distraction". Perhaps she didn't have Ronin's training, but she was a fighter in her own right thank you very much!
Of course, she couldn't help the little flash of pride that he claimed her so easily. Her people were rather possessive when it came to such things.
"They often come here and recruit some volunteers," the elder started. Voice laced with venomous spite. "It's usually three men, they take roughly five people, even women and children." Ronin frowned slowly. "They are never seen again," the man explained as he noticed Ronin's frown.
"Why women and children. They aren't labourers.. Nor would they be sold into slavery," Ronin pondered aloud. The man nodded. "You're going to overpower them with some men of the village and warn them to not come here."
Ronin let out a soft, dissapproving hum. He disliked blowing his cover so soon, but if the elder insisted. "When do they arrive?" Ronin asked.
"Either within an hour or tomorrow," the elder answered, causing Ronin to nod.
Hana clenched her hands in the hem of her kimono, eyes downcast. She was suddenly very nervous. Trying to be as subtle as possible, she reached over to take Ronin's hand and squeezed tightly.
This was happening a lot faster than she would have thought.
Ronin didn't even waver at Hanako grabbing his hand. Not even as much as a change in his facial expression. He had to keep this tough attitude. Yet, he softly squeezed Hana's hand in acknowledgement. "That's all?" He asked.
And the elder nodded. "Izuru will show you to your house," he said. A youngster, looking roughly around his sixteens,nodded and gestured for Ronin and Hanako to follow them.
The kitsune dipped her head respectfully again and got to her feet, drawing her hand back. She offered a small smile to the kid- Izuru- but kept silent, as that seemed to be what was expected of her.
The child seemed sad, glum even and didn't respond to her smile. He rather walked out without a word, trailing through the village and stopping at a small house. "Here," he said, his voice quivering lightly.
"Ah, thanks." Hana nodded at him, then let her head tilt to the side. "Hey, kid, ah- you okay?" she ventured slowly.
The child gave her a brief look in the eyes. His gaze testified of grief. Someone close to him had recently dissappeared from his life. Roninbput a hand on Hanako's shoulder and shook his head. "Not now," he murmured softly to her as the kid just walked off.
"Oh." Hana bit her lip as realization dawned. She watched the kid walk away, then sighed and turned to slip into the house. "C'mon," she murmured, taking Ronin's hand and pulling him after her.
Once they were out of sight, she practically threw herself into his arms. "I hate this man," she murmured. "He needs to be taken down."
Ronin was pulled inside, he closed the door behind him and caught Hanako, sighing softly. "I know. And I will take him down." Ronin grit his teeth. "I will bury him myself." He gave her a soft squeeze. "In time. If we attack him now and manage to kill him, someone else will take his place. We have to destroy the honor that stands by his name as a warlord and beat him infront of his men."
She gave a quick nod, sniffling slightly. Gods, why was she so emotional? It wasn't like it was the first time she'd seen something like this. Hell, they'd met on a slave ship.
"What can I do?" she asked quietly as she leaned back to look at his face.
"Help me kill those soldiers," he answered with a soft murmur. "Only one needs to be left alive to report back."
Hana nodded again. "Okay. You can count on me." She leaned up to peck his cheek, then let her head rest against his shoulder.
"Gods, I just- I hate the waiting, you know?"
"I understand completely," Ronin said, before gabbing hzr hand and squeezing it softly. "Lead me around the house," he murmured softly.
She squeezed his hand and laced their fingers together with a soft smile. "Okay."
Hana led him around their rather small, cozy, accommodations. She did her best to describe what was around them, warning him when a door frame was too low and taking special notice of the placement of the sparse furniture.
The house wasn't built with a posture like his in mind, that was for sure. Ronin kneeled down at the small table, unclipping the two blades from his belt and placing them down, sighing softly. "I don't think it'll be for today," he started with a soft murmur.
Hana knelt at the other end of the table, curling her legs slightly to the side. "You're probably right," she murmured.
Her eyes flickered around. "So...what should we do? Just...wait?"
"We have untill tomorrow evening," Ronin answered with a nod. "It was either today, which it isn't. Or tomorrow."
She frowned. "I hate waiting." The kitsune glanced around again, tails flicking nervously, then sighed and got to her feet.
She meandered around the table and sank down onto her knees behind Ronin. Her hands came up to fiddle with his armor, fingers slipping under to rub soothing little circles over his shoulders. She just needed something to do.
Ronin leaned forward as he closed his eyes, letting out a soft hum off approval. "That feels good," he murmured softly.
Hana smiled and continued the ministrations, pulling his armor off to get more room to work. "Good." She leaned forward and kissed the back of his neck softly. "You're already too tense, Daisuke. It'd do you good to relax every once in a while."
He rolled his shoulders and leaned forward more, allowing Hanako more room to work with. He let out a soft and exhilirated sigh. "Don't be afraid to dig in there," he replied with a soft chuckle.
She smirked. "Alright then." Leaning into her strokes, she started to dig the heels of her palms into his back and shoulders.
Her head dipped forward to trail feather-light kisses over the back of his neck and shoulders as she worked and she nuzzled briefly into his shoulder.
He let out a soft groan. "Like that," he murmured softly.
Yet a quivering and very unmanly moan left him as he felt her lips in his neck.
Hana laughed softly and slid her hands around to stroke over his chest. "What was that?" she purred, nuzzling under his ear. "I couldn't quite make that out, love." She nipped at his neck playfully.
"I didn't think.. I could make such a sound," he responded with a soft gasp.
Hana hummed against his skin and leaned over him to trail her kisses along his shoulder. "I wonder what other sounds I could get you to make," she whispered playfully.
He let out a soft breath at the ministrations, taking her hand on his chest and lowering it to have it rest on his codpiece. "Try me," he whispered softly.
She growled softly and twisted around gracefully to kneel in front of him. Her fingers worked deftly to remove the rest of his armor, lingering teasingly on the codpiece.
"You sure?" Hana breathed, lightly teasing, leaning in to kiss the side of his jaw. "Wouldn't want these impressionable villagers to hear and get the wrong idea about you..."
Ronin let out a breathy chuckle. "I'll just need to muffle the sounds then," he answered with a soft pant.
She chuckled again and slid her hands up under his shirt to graze over his chest. "What if I want to hear you?" she breathed, leaning in to kiss the hollow of his throat and bucking her hips teasingly against his.
Ronin let out a soft gasp as he tilted his head to kiss her ear, before letting out a heated whisper. "You're welcome to try, love." At that, he grabbed her ass and gave it a playful squeeze. "But what are you planning," he asked with a breathy chuckle in her ear.
Hana yelped, then laughed and wriggled her hips into his touch. "If I told you, it wouldn't be nearly as fun," she murmured with a soft giggle.
In a burst of movement, she rolled them over and perched atop him, knees to either side of his hips. Her hands braced against his chest and she swooped down to claim his lips in a fierce kiss.
"Of course," Ronin replied before they rolled over. He let out a soft chuckle as Hana perched atop of him, before responding to the kiss with an equal amount of passion.
He broke the kiss softly and took a sharp breath. "There's something I heard during my travels," he started with a soft pant.
"Mmm?" Hana dragged her lips down along his collar, then to his chest as she worked his shirt off. "What is it?"
Ronin let out a soft and breathy chuckle. "I'm curious," he murmured softly, as he put his hands down on her buttocks again. "Not sure how to say it," he glanced up at her with a shy smirk.
Hana smiled against his skin and nudged her head up under his chin. "You can tell me anything," she murmured encouragingly, stretching up to kiss the tip of his nose. "C'mon, Daisuke."
"It's emberassing," he replied with a chuckle, before his finger trailed between her buttocks, brushing against her asshole. "But, is this also pleasurable for women?" He inquired with a soft frown.
Hana froze, startled. Gradually, she relaxed against him.
"It can be," she murmured, kissing his cheek. "Personally, I- ahem, I mean, I've never actually-" She found herself blushing and ducked her head against his chest.
Ronin shook his head softly. "I was just curious," he murmured with a soft chuckle, pressing a kiss on her head. "I wasn't asking whether you wanted to do such.."
"Well, I mean..." She swallowed and nuzzled against his cheek. "If- if you wanted to- I mean, I'd consider it."
She pressed a kiss to the side of his neck and let her hands trail down to trace over the planes of his stomach.
Ronin shook his head, closing his eyes briefly. "Only if you want," he murmured softly.
"Maybe..." She tilted her head, considering. "Maybe someday."
Hana trailed her mouth down to his chest, bumping her head up under his chin affectionately. Her hands skimmed down his sides to grasp his hips gently. "Is there- is there anything else you want? Something I could give you now?"
Ronin nodded softly. "Only if you want to," he replied with a soft smile. "Only you." He said as he rolled his hips softly.
"Hmm." Hana nipped at his collar and hooked her fingers around the hem of his pants and started working them down over his hips.
She flicked her tongue out to trace teasing little patterns over his chest as she wrapped her hand around him and started to stroke along his length. "I'm all yours," she purred. "Always."
Ronin smirked softly, before letting out a soft groan. He put his hands on her hips again akd let out a soft sigh. "I know.. But you're such a tease.."
She smirked. "I told you, I want to see what sorts of sounds I can get out of you." She leaned up to nip at the shell of his ear and hiked up her kimono so she could press her hips forward and grind against him.
"Well, like this," he let out a soft groan, "you won't get much else." Another soft groan left him as he rolled his hips against Hanako's.
"Oh, won't I?" She smiled and leaned in for a kiss, grinding her hips slowly against his. "I could make you beg," Hana teased quietly, nuzzling her nose against his.
"You wouldn't," he answered with a soft pant.
"Hm." She tilted her head, pretending to considered it, then relented, "You're right. I wouldn't."
Rather abruptly she sunk down on him, gasping as she braced her hands against his chest and pressed her hips flush to his.
Ronin let out a soft chuckle that was drawn short by a soft gasp and a groan at her suddenly forcing herself down.
Hana purred, tails flicking through the air behind her, and slowly started to roll her hips against his. Her nails dug into his chest lightly and she gave a soft, blissful sigh.
Grinning wickedly, she dipped to press a kiss to the curve of his shoulder, then nipped at the spot, just over the edge of gentle, all the while maintaining the almost painfully slow movement of her hips. "More, Daisuke?" she crooned.
Daisuke let out a soft grunt, resting his head against Hanako's shoulder, "I think.. We can both agree..-" he was cut short by the nipping at his shoulder, letting out a soft sigh. "Please."
"What was that?" She was having far too much fun teasing me him. "I don't think I quite caught that last bit." She suddenly rocked her hips against his fiercely, then still. Her chest rose and fell rapidly with little pants, but she resisted the urge to really start riding him.
"You sultry vixen," Ronin grit his teeth as he grabbed her hips, before leaning forward to push her down on the table and sitting up on his knees. A soft chuckle left him as he softly rolled his hips against hers. "Let's see who's the patient one," he murmured with a soft grunt.
"You love it," Hana retorted, then gasped as their positions were reversed.
"Oh, sweetheart." She smirked and wrapped her legs around his waist. "Just try me," she challenged, bucking her hips against his.
"I think I am," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle as he thrust against her with a deliberate and almost antagonising slowness.
Hana actually whimpered as she let her head fall back. "I- I won't do it," she panted out. "I won't b-beg- oohhh..."
She clenched her eyes shut and bit her lip, desperately trying to swallow a plea for him to move.
Ronin let out a breathy chuckle, her words made him move even slower. "So we're at an impasse."
She hissed in a breath and wriggled against him desperately. "Damnit, Daisuke." She meant to growl the words, but they came out as more of a whimper. "Pl-"
She bit down on the word and clenched her fists. "I know you want me too," she gasped out. "C'mon, love..."
"True," Ronin answered with a soft grunt. "But I.. Won't give in, my dear Hana.."
Somehow the endearment was almost harder to resist than his agonizingly slow movements. She groaned and arched her back, bucking up against him desperately.
"Damn you," she breathed. "P- Please, Daisuke..."
"Please.. What?" He asked as he started to make movements that were just a tad bit faster than his previous ones. Yet they were still so dreadfully slow.
She groaned, half in frustration and half in pleasure. "Please, just take me damnit!" she gasped out, throwing her head back.
"You'll have to be more specific, dear," he answered with a breathy chuckle.
She groaned again. "I'm glaring at you," Hana informed him breathily.
But she gave in. "Fuck me, Daisuke. Please."
"I'm sorry.. For not seeing that.. Or anything," Ronin replied with a breathy chuckle, before gritting his teeth.
"That wasn't so hard.. Huh.." A loud groan came from him as he pulled back and slammed forward against Hanako. "We got several weeks to make up for.." Ronin grunted as he pulled back to make another forceful slam against her.
Hana wailed and arched up against him, practically throwing herself into his thrusts. "Gods, Daisuke," she groaned, lashes fluttering. "M-maybe we should make up missed time more often..."
"I don't think.. Either could wait long enough.. To get lost time," he murmured as he put a hand down on Hanako's shoulder to put more force at his thrusts.
She sort of laughed, but the sound was swallowed in a sharp gasp. "You're p-probably right..." Her head lolled to the side and she moaned encouragement. "Gods, Daisuke, you feel so good," she breathed. "Don't stop..."
Ronin let out several sharp gasps and groans. A breathless chuckle escaped him. "Damn," he murmured softly.
Hana moaned as she felt herself drawing closer to the edge. One hand flew out to lock around his wrist, nails biting unwittingly into skin.
"More," she panted, skin flushed and far too warm. "Just a little more, love, please."
A sharp breath left Ronin, nodding as he sped up his thrusting ever so slightly.
"Mmn...oh!" Hana tossed her head back and arched up to meet him as much as she could. Unable to help herself, she snapped up against his chest to wrap her arms around his shoulders, slamming her hips into his in a few desperate bucks before she went sailing over the edge with a soft cry, unconsciously biting down on the curve of his shoulder.
Ronin hugged Hanako tightly as she came. He felt her teeth on his shoulder, a trickle of blood travelling down his collarbone. Yet he kept pounding her, groaning deeply. "I'm close," he murmured softly.
She groaned encouragement as he didn't stop moving, though a little flash of guilt ran through her and she pressed a series of soothing kisses and licks to the bite mark she'd left.
"Don't stop," she breathed against his skin. "Don't hold back. I want to hear you, love."
A soft groan rose from his throat, "Hana-" he murmured in the groan, closing his eyes. He made a last forceful slam inside of Hanako. Finishing inside of her as he panted heavily.
The kitsune gasped quietly as she felt his release and clung to him, breathing heavily. "Daisuke," she whispered. "Daisuke..." She couldn't seem to form other words.
A soft shiver crawled down Ronin's spine. He closed his eyes and bumped his forehead against hers, before planting a soft kiss on her lips.
Hana kissed him back, running her hands over his shoulders and chest. She paused, fingers skimming her bite mark.
"Sorry," she murmured against his lips. "I didn't hurt you, did I?"
Ronin softly shook her head. "Just a small pinch," he replied with a soft, breathy chuckle.
She frowned, but let it drop with, "Alright, if you're sure." She pressed a slow trail of kisses up his neck and along his jaw to his lips.
"I hope this place is relatively soundproof," she chuckled after a moment, giving a teasing little wiggle of her hips. "Wouldn't want that elder person to think I'm distracting you."
Ronin let out another breathy chuckle. "I don't think they would hear it," he murmured as he rolled around and pulled Hanako ontop of himself. "Still, we aren't done yet, dear.."
Hana grinned crookedly and dipped to kiss the hollow of his throat as she gave another little buck of her hips.
"You're right," she purred, "I still want to see what sorts of sounds I can get out of you..." She curled her fingers slightly and dragged her hands down his chest to scratch gently, one nail inadvertently catching at a nipple as she did.
Ronin swallowed heavily, still trying to regain his breath. "Let's try." He added with a soft smirk.
A soft gasp left him as he felt her nail hooking behind his nipple.
Hana paused. "Daisuke?" She very cautiously repeated the gesture, studying his face. "Good or not?" She bent to kiss his neck lightly as she asked.
Ronin grunted softly. "Surprising," he replied, "that's for sure," he replied with a soft panting.
"Hmm..." She trailed her lips down his chest to kiss his sternum, then licked her way back up to his neck. Her fingers danced over him, testing this new discovery.
"It was certainly a new sound," she teased quietly, kissing the sensitive skin below his ear.
Several soft whimpers came from him as she toyed around over his chest. "Damn," he murmured, before he let out a soft whimper at the ministrations underneath his ear.
Hana gave a smug little purr and gently started to rock her hips against his, still paying ministrations over his chest and neck.
"So...good?" she murmured, picking up her pace just a bit.
"Good," he murmured with a soft murmur, resting his head back with several pants and groans.
She grinned and gave her hips a sharp buck, then bent down to claim his lips with hers. Her movements started to become more feverish and she trailed her mouth down to his chest again, licking and nipping at sensitive skin.
Ronin let out several soft grunts and whispers. He put a hand at the base of her tails, the other on her buttock, giving both a firm squeeze. He sat up slightly, "fuck me like you mean it," was what he grunted in her ear.
A chill ran up her spine and Hana moaned quietly. She lifted away from him slightly then slammed her hips against his with bruising force.
A yelp was drawn from her lips as she repeated the movement. "Like- like this?" she gasped out, eyes glinting.
A ragged groan came from Daisuke as he nodded faintly. "Yes.. Like that," he breathed in her ear as he stroked the base of her tails.
She gasped, little tingles of pleasure racing up her spine from his touch to her tails. "Gods, Daisuke," she mewled, slamming her hips into his again and again. Something fevered and primal seemed to have taken ahold of her and she tossed her head back with a sharp cry.
Ronin groaned loudly as he forced his eyes shut. Movement faltering slightly as Hanako cried out. "Hana," he bit out her name. "L-ike tha-fuck I'm going to.." His words interrupted by a sharp breath.
"Me- me too-" Her voice cut off in a low moan as she slammed their hips together again and suddenly froze, tightening around him.
Hana ground against him in little circles as she rode through the waves of her peak, panting and mewling softly.
Ronin grit his teeth. Eyes rolled to the back of his head as Hanako tightened around him. It felt like she wanted to coax it all out. With several low, yet loud and long groans, Ronin also came, panting heavily with a soft sheen of sweat over his body.
Gasping, Hana let herself collapse against his chest. "Feel better?" she purred when she got her breath back a bit. Her hands traced up and down his sides absently.
Ronin let out a soft breath. "Much," he replied as he softly stroked her tails. "I'm just scared of the mess.. When I pull out," he said with a breathy chuckle.
"Mm." She smiled and kissed his neck. "Then don't. There's bound to be a place to bathe around here somewhere. You can stay with me if you carry me there," she murmured.
"So we sneak out stark naked to find a hot spring?" Ronin inquired with a breathy chuckle.
"I'd be okay with it." Hana smirked and nuzzled his neck. "Though I have a feeling you might object, huh?"
"Good guess," Ronin answered with a soft smirk.
She mock pouted at him and brushed her nose against his. "Then I guess you'll just have to make a bit of a mess," she murmured, kissing the tip of his nose. She shifted a bit against him and shivered at the little tingles of sensation.
Ronin let out a soft hum. "Let's stay like this a while longer.."
Hana nodded and settled herself more comfortably against his chest. "Alright." She shifted around a bit to bring her knees higher on his hips and tuck her head against his shoulder, closing her eyes with a quiet purr of contentment.
"Love you, Daisuke," she murmured.
"Loce you too," he murmured softly, pressing a kiss on her head.
"Mmm." Hana smiled and kissed his collar. "If we don't move soon, I'm going to fall asleep like this," she warned playfully.
"That would bebless than ideal," Ronin said. He took a sharp breath, pulling out. Which in turn caused another soft gasp to errupt from him.
Hana whimpered as he slipped out of her, instinctively trying to press her legs together. She sat back with a quiet sigh, moving off of him to sit curled against his side.
"We really do need a bath," she murmured. Her hand trailed up and down his chest. "You're all sticky."
"Hm, perhaps so," Ronin answered with a soft smirk.
"Well." She got to her feet, legs just a bit shaky though she tried to ignore it. "I'm going to look for a bath house or something. And I don't particularly care if I have clothes on, so if you do you'd better some with me," she sniffed.
"Fine," Ronin said with a soft murmur. "But do put some clothes on."
Hana chuckled. "If you insist." She pulled her kimono on loosely so it was falling off her shoulders, but at least it covered anything important.
"Come on." She knelt to gather some of Ronin's clothes and pressed them into his hands. "Throw something on so we can go wash up."
Ronin nodded softly and started to get dressed, leaving his armour for what it was.and nodding. "Let's go, Hana."
She nodded and slipped her hand into his, leading him back out of the house and in to the little village.
Hana glanced around curiously, trying to figure out where she should go. There didn't seem to be many people out and about- not entirely odd, considering the situation, but it left her without anyone to ask for directions.
"I don't suppose you know where we should go," she said with a small laugh, ears twitching as she looked up at Ronin.
Ronin shook his head slowly. "I do not," he answered with a soft murmur.
"Wonderful," Hana sighed. She pricked her ears, listening for running water. At this point, a clear stream would do.
"Ah." She started slipping between houses. "There might be something this way, c'mon."
"Lets not get lost again," Ronin added with a cheeky chuckle.
"Oh." Hana dropped his hand and spun to mock glare at him. "If that's how you're going to be, you can just go get a bath on your own." she slipped around a house at the edge of the village and started making her way toward the sound of running water.
"Tch," was all what Ronin could reply as she slipped away. He raised both arms, holding two fingers up infront of him and two fingers up in the air. He slowly circled the stretched arm down, before joining hands and dissipating in a puff of shadows.
Glancing over her shoulder, the kitsune gave a sharp yelp of surprise as he vanished. "Daisuke?" She turned in a small circle. "Daisuke?"
Well...he wouldn't just abandon her, right? She kept walking, slower now, eyes searching with every step.
Ronin however, was already at the running water Hanako had heard earlier. A small pond away from the village.
Hana reached the pond quickly enough and scowled when she caught sight of Ronin.
"Neat trick," she grumbled, moving toward him. "Mind never freaking me out like that again?" She poked his shoulder, tails swishing in irritation.
Ronin chuckled softly. "It was you who abandoned me there," he replied with a soft smirk. "Besides, I didn't even know I could do that," his smirk froze and faded. "These powers are manifesting."
Hana's usual playfulness left her in a heartbeat.
"Daisuke?" She wrapped her arms around his middle, eyes searching his face. "Do you...feel alright?" she asked cautiously.
"I am," Ronin replied with a soft sigh as he put his hand on her head. "It's just a reminder that something still plagues me. Plagues us."
Hana's brow furrowed as she looked up at him, biting her lip.
"It's going to be okay," she said softly after a moment. "I promise it'll be okay." She nuzzled into his chest with a small sigh. "I'll protect you."
It might have seemed odd, what with the way she was clinging to him, but she really was feeling quite protective.
Ronin nodded softly, resting his hands on her shoulders. "I know you will," he answered.with a soft murmur.
Hana nodded silently, letting the embrace last a few moments longer, then stepped away from him toward the pond. "Come on, we should clean up," she murmured quietly, shrugging out of her clothes and stepping into the water.
Ronin nodded with a soft smile, starting to undress aswell and stepping into the water.
Hana held her hand flat above the water and closed her eyes for a moment. Fire flashed from her palm, racing across the surface of the pond and heating the water to a comfortably warmth.
She sighed happily and started scrubbing at her skin and hair, rinsing the sweat from her body. "Much better." She glanced over her shoulder at Ronin and sidled a little closer to him.
"Such convienient power," Ronin said with a soft chuckle as he started to clean himself off, standing up straight, the water reaching up to his waist.
"I think so," Hana replied smugly. Her height left the water just under her chest, though if she rose up onto her toes she was nearly level with Ronin.
She yawned and stretched, then leaned over to float on her back. "I'm so tired," she mumbled, letting her eyes close. "I swear I usually have more stamina than this..."
Ronin got to his knees, before completely submerging and rubbing his head to wash his hair.
He surfaced with a soft breath and went behind Hana, hugging her from behind, pressing a soft kiss on her cheek. "Maybe you're weary from the boat?"
"Hm!" She gave a soft noise of surprise as his arms came around her, then relaxed back against him. "Maybe," she relented. "Boats have never bothered me much before though."
She sighed and shook her head, ears flicking droplets of water every which way. "I better not be sick," she mumbled, frowning. "I don't get sick." Although the little episode from that morning begged to differ.
She put it from her mind. It didn't matter, as long as she could help Ronin fight when the lord's men came the next day.
"It'll be fine," Ronin reassured as he gently stroked her shoulder. "We'll take that vacation soon.."
"Mmph." She twisted around in his arms to lay her head against his shoulder. "I'm gonna hold you to that," Hana warned playfully, tails swishing lazily over the surface of the water.
She sighed again and pressed a little closer. "After those men come tomorrow- what happens next?"
"Two things can happen," Ronin mused. "They back off and we have enough time to organise as a rebellion.. Or the most likely case us they come back with larger numbers. If we beat those, they will leave us alone."
"If?" She tilted her head back to look at him. "We'll be able to, won't we?"
Ronin nodded softly. "We will."
Hana nodded slowly and nuzzled a little closer. Her hands stroked up and down his back absently. "And then we can take that vacation," she murmured, trying to lighten the mood a bit.
"After that, after we overthrow a tirannical warlord," he replied with a soft chuckle.
"I meant after that," Hana sniffed. "I mean, how hard can that really be?"
One tail flicked around to brush against his side and she shifted her arms up to twine around his neck. Sobering a bit, she murmured, "Everything's going to be okay, right? I mean that- that thing isn't going to come after you while we're in the village?"
"There are other people around there.. As long as I have the mask-," his expression changed to one of shock. And as if on cue, the Anomaly appeared out of thin air. Standing on the water surface. Staring down at Ronin and Hanako.
It was as if it had been there the entire time.
She felt him tense and whirled around, hackles raised and teeth bared. In an instant she took her fully beast form, a growl rumbling in her throat as she planted herself firmly in front of Ronin, water dripping from her fur.
A soft, almost tired sigh came from the creature, staring Hanako down and approaching over the surface. Walking on the water. Dead silent. It seemed like their surroundings had completely silenced aswell. No birds, no wind.
Just complete and utter silence.
Hana couldn't even hear her own growling, but she felt it rumbling in her chest. She took an instinctive step back from the creature, pressing up against Ronin as she did.
Ronin put a hand on Hanako's back, before stepping forward. "What do you want?" Yet his voice was lost in the torpor of silence.
A soft hissing voice resounded, as if thousands spoke, all around them.
"I'd punish your lack of commitment, but your powers are evolving, Daisuke Shizuka."
The kitsune whimpered quietly and pressed against his side, feeling helpless and hating it.
"That shadowwalking you had just displayed. It caught my attention. It was sloppy and slow. But one day, you might become close to your female counterpart." The creature folded it's arms and stared down at Ronin.
"She's dead, isn't she?" Yet his voice was once more silenced. "She isn't. Only far beyond your reach."
Ronin grit his teeth and stepped forward. "Why do you not end me then?! Right here? Right no-" his sentence was cut off as the creatures ethereal claw slid through his chest.
"I can, but I wish to see how long it'll take before someone like you falls into the pit of despair," a soft snarl errupted from the creature. "Amuse me," and like that. It dissappeared. Everything went to normal again. The rushing of water, a gentle wind. Birds. As if nothing had happened.
Hana tried to Yelp, to whirl to Ronin's defense, but the sound faded to nothingness and the creature was as solid as air.
Then suddenly sound returned and she almost collapsed into her humanoid form.
She spun to face her companion, eyes wide and chest heaving. "You promised," she hissed, tears gathering in her eyes. "You promised, Daisuke! "End me here and now"- what the hell was that?!"
Ronin grabbed her closely, hugging her tightly as he slumped forward against her. "He wouldn't do it.. Both you and I know," he murmured softly. "It would've been too easy.."
Crying, she threw her arms around him and clung tightly, turning her face into his neck. The fear-driven anger faded to a desolate kind of panic and she just held him, sniffling.
"It's never going to stop, is it?" she whispered, though she knew the answer.
Ronin smiled sadly. "I'm sorry.. You deserve none of this," he hugged her weakly, resting his head on her shoulder. "I'm selfish to hope you stay around.."
Hana shook her head and clung all the tighter. "You couldn't get rid of me if you tried," she sniffed, kissing the slope of his shoulder gently. She clenched her eyes shut in an attempt to stem the tears. "I love you. I'm not leaving."
"I wouldn't even try," Ronin answered with a soft murmur. "I love you too."
She gave a shaky nod and just held him, not sure what else to do. Her whole body was shaking and she couldn't seem to stop crying, though at least the tears had slowed to a trickle and the occasional sniff.
Ronin hushed her softly, keeping the kitsune close. It was a painful situation.
A deep sigh resounded as he pressed several soft kisses on her head.
Hana pressed a little closer and ran her hands up and down his back. "We should...be getting back soon," she murmured, still hiding her face against his chest.
"We should," Ronin replied as he rested his lips on Hanako's head, squeezing her softly.
She nodded, but made no move to step away.
"I don't want to let go," she admitted quietly. "I- it feels like if I do you'll slip away..." Her grip tightened and she whimpered quietly.
Ronin nodded softly. "I love you," he let out a faint smirk. "And I promised you a vacation.."
Hana gave a watery chuckle. "That's right, you did." She leaned back enough to look up at him and poked his chest gently. "I'm gonna hold you to that promise."
Reluctantly, she moved away from him to climb out of the pond, though she kept her grip on his hand as long as she could.
Ronin nodded. "No doubt about that," he smirked softly. "How hard can it be to defeat a warlord," he followed with a chuckle, following her out.
Dressing herself, Hana leaned down to gather up his clothes and pressed them into his hands. "Exactly. Think positive, it'll be fine."
She wrapped her fingers around his wrist and squeezed lightly, seeking the comfort of the touch despite the levity in her tone.
Ronin chuckled softly as he started to get dressed again.
When she felt the squeeze at his wrist, he grabbed her arm and pulled her in for a soft kiss.
The kitsune leaned into the touch, humming quietly against his lips. "I love you," she murmured when they broke apart.
Taking a sharp breath, she tried to force herself to calm down and moved her fingers to lace through his. "C'mon, we should head back. Big day tomorrow, you need some rest."
"I love you too," he replied as she stepped back. Ronin gave her hand a soft squeeze when he felt Hana lacing their fingers together. "Tomorrow, everything'll change. Are you ready for it?"
Hana nodded slowly, then murmured. "Yeah, I think so." She leaned into him slightly as they walked. "Are you?"
Ronin shook his head softly. "I'm not sure I am. I'm scared, honestly," he admitted with a soft smirk. "People will get hurt."
"Oh, Daisuke." Hana turned her face into his shoulder and pressed a soft kiss there. "You have such a big heart, love," she murmured.
After a moment of quiet, she suggested slowly, "We could evacuate the villagers. Before Kumiko's men even show up."
"I doubt they would want to," Ronin replied with a soft sigh. "It's their home and I won't crush the spirit they still have left."
She sighed, biting her lip. "Just until the fighting is over? Or maybe we could just move the children..."
Her ears flicked and she muttered, "I- I could protect them." She hated the idea of leaving Ronin to fight on his own, but if there was a chance to spare innocent lives...
"We'll ask around who wants to guard the people who cant defend themselves," Ronin answered, "the rest, including you will force a direct confrontation," he continued. "I'd rather have you by my side, for obvious reasons and the matter that you are powerful. With you at the front, the line will be heavily fortified. If they get through us, it doesn't matter how many guards we've put." He coughed softly. "Or am I making this too complicated?"
Another sigh and Hana leaned into him a little more. "I don't know," she mumbled. "I've never been in a situation like this before."
She let out a sharp breath. "I'll do whatever you say, Daisuke. I trust you."
"We will see what tomorrow brings," he answered, wrapping an arm around her m. He gave her a soft squeeze and smiled faintly.
Hana nodded and wrapped her arms around him in turn. She halted just outside of the village, wanting to let that bit of time alone together last.
"It's going to be okay," she murmured, not sure if she was really trying to reassure him or herself. "This is all going to be okay."
"It will be," Ronin answered with a soft nod and another squeeze. "I may have lost my honor. But my heart remains and that is all I need to do what is just," he chuckled softly. "We'll be on a vacation before you know it."
She gave a shaky little sigh and kissed his cheek. "I don't care what you say, you're the most honorable man I know."
She kissed the tip of his nose, then pulled away reluctantly, but she left her hand cupping his cheek. "And you've got the biggest heart."
She let her hand slide down to twine her fingers with his and started walking again. "I think it needs to be a long vacation."
Ronin gave her a warm smile. "Thanks," was the only word he could muster to reply.
He fell into step next to her and nodded. "It'll be as long as you want."
Hana suddenly paused again, just outside of the little house they'd been offered to use. She stood in front of him, hands on his shoulders and eyes searching his face.
"Do you mean that?" Her voice was light and teasing, but there was a soft undercurrent of sincerity to it. "What if I said I wanted months? Maybe a year?"
Ronin nodded. "I promise." He said simply, putting his hands on her hips.
Once again the kitsune found herself blinking back tears. Gods, why was she so emotional lately? "I love you," she murmured, tucking her head against his shoulder as she stretched up to hug him tightly.
She let the embrace last a few moments longer, then pulled away and moved toward the door, grasping his hand gently to tug him with her.
"I love you too," Ronin replied as he pulled her closer with a soft and content sigh.
As she broke the hug, Ronin followed her inside, squeezing her hand softly.
"Let's just get some sleep," Hana murmured, guiding Ronin toward the bedroom. She seemed rather unwilling to let go of him, her fingers twined through his as she pressed up against his side.
Ronin nodded slowly. "Alright," he said with a soft smile, pushing the door open to their small bedroom.
"Wait." Standing before the bed, Hana placed her hand gently on his chest to still him. "Just- let me take care of you for a minute?" Her fingers trailed down to the hem of his shirt where she fiddled with the fabric.
Ronin forwned softly but nodded. "Alright," he murmured with a soft huff.
Hana nodded and murmured, "Thanks." She lifted his shirt off over his head, folding it and laying it at the end of the bed. Her hands brushed over his chest, up to his shoulders and she urged him onto the bed.
"Come here." She laid down and curled around him, combing her fingers through his hair.
Ronin pressed a soft kiss against Hana's cheek as they laid down on the bed. He wrapped his arms aroundbher.and pulled her closer with a soft snort.
She smiled and kissed his forehead. "Shh. Get some sleep love," she murmured, nuzzling his temple. She started humming quietly, running her hands soothingly up and down his back.
Ronin nodded with a soft yawn, snuggling closer against her body, befofe letting out a soft, yet content huff.
Hana's smile widened as she felt him start to drift off. She pressed another kiss to his forehead, then let her eyes close as she slipped into unconsciousness with a small, contented sigh.
Ronin pulled her closer as he felt the kiss, stirring slightly in his half sleeping state, before properly drifting off.
He would wake several hours after sunrise, if not woken earlier.
For once, Hana was up first. Not quite sure what to do with herself, she carefully disentangled her limbs from around Ronin and pressed a soft kiss to his temple before sliding out of the bed and padding to the door, slipping into the main room of the little house.
She sniffed the air. There had to be some food around here somewhere...
There indeed was. A small cupboard with some basic supplies in it. It'd last them roughly some days.
Hana had never been much of a cook, but she managed to make a decent breakfast with what she found in the cupboards, setting the food out on the small table.
She didn't want to wake Ronin, sure he needed his sleep, but now she really didn't know what to do with herself. Perhaps she could explore the village a bit.
Yet a loud stumbling was heard from the bedroom. Several minutes later, Ronin emerged with a small girl slumped over his shoulder. Hands and legs tied, several blades visible on her body.
She wore some kind of dark crimson robes and armour. Which would hint more at some kind of assassination unit, rather than a warrior.
Hana shot to her feet, eyes wide. How had she not sensed someone so close. "What happened?" she hissed, hackles raised as she eyed the girl.
"An assassin," Ronin replied with a shrug. "Young, female. In her teens if I had to go by her weight." He let out a soft sigh, putting her down on the floor. "But she is also fairly inexperienced. I think she even might be a former villager here. Else she wouldn't know her way around the house like that."
The kistune eyed the girl, stepping around her in a small circle. "What do we do with her?" she muttered, stopping protectively in front of Ronin.
Ronin sat down at the table, folding his arms. "Hand her to the elder. If she was any older, I would have broken her neck. But I do not kill children." Ronin answered with a soft snort. "He can shine some light on this."
The girl looked up at Hanako. Silent. Unmoving. Yet her red eyes sparked with something dangerous. Bloodthirst andbkilling intent like no equal. As if there was a weapon infront of her, rather than a living and breathing being.
Hana shook her head slowly. "I think they did something to her. She doesn't feel...human anymore."
Ronin grit his teeth, before calming down and sighing softly. "And she is just a child," he looked up at Hanako. "This Kumiko needs to die."
A low growling had started up in the kitsune' chest and she nodded. "We should get her to the elder," she murmured, eyes narrowed. "Maybe a healer could help her."
Ronin nodded and stood up straight, picking the girl up, who snarled softly. Ronin sighed. "It's alright," he sushed. And it seemed like it had some positive impact, the snarling subsided.
Ronin pushed the door open as he walked into the village.
Hana fell into step beside them, still wary of the girl but also finding her heart aching for her. "No one is going to hurt you," she soothed softly. "We're gonna get you some help."
After a short while, they reached the elder's house. Ronin knocked on the door, before walking in. "Elder. I found her in my house," he stated as he put the girl down against the wall.
The man's eyes widened and he stepped back. "Izuki," he whispered, obviously shocked.
"So she is from here?" Hana knelt next to the girl, head tilted to one side as she observed her. "You name's Izuki?" She tried for a small smile. Maybe whatever had been done to her could be undone.
"She's my granddaughter," the elder said as he dropped back ln his ass. "Izuru's sister," he murmured, resting his face in his palms.
Izuki looked up at her, snarling softly.
Hana sighed quietly. "Do you recognize him?" she murmured to the girl, gesturing toward the elder.
Another soft snarl came from her as she struggled against her binds.
The kitsune sighed again and got to her feet. "I'm no scholar, whatever they did to her is magic beyond me. I'm sorry."
Ronin sat down and let out a soft sigh. "I don't think it's magic.. Or at least, it wouldn't have this much of an effect," Ronin shook his head. "They broke her mind and trained her, she will need to recover."
He glanced over at the elder's direction. "Or at least, I think that is what happened."
Hana shrugged. "She needs a healer, at any rate. There's really nothing we can do for her here."
Ronin nodded softly. "Indeed," he looked at Hanako. "We have other matters to worry about, however."
"Right." She took a sharp breath and straightened her shoulders. "Elder- sir- why don't you take your granddaughter to a healer? D- Ronin has a plan for us to confront these soldiers of Kumiko's."
The elder nodded, "go," he said as he kneeled down infront of Izuki. Obviously too preoccupied now with his granddaughter.
Hana looked at Ronin helplessly, then reached out and touched his arm lightly. "I think we should give them some space," she murmured, keeping her voice low enough that the elder wouldn't hear.
Ronin nodded softly, putting a hand on Hanako's shoulder and walking out.
Once outside, she let out a sharp breath and leaned back against Ronin's chest, closing her eyes. She was shaking slightly.
"That felt wrong," she whispered. "Whatever they did to her- gods, I just hope someone can fix her."
"I mostly feel for Izuru.. But now we know what we can expect. And she couldn't report back, so our presence is not compromised," Ronin said, sighing softly. "We'll find a way to fix her."
Hana nodded dejectedly. "Right. Right, of course we will." She took a fortifying breath and straightened her shoulders, then took a step away.
"Alright. We should get ready, yes?"
Ronin nodded. "Inform the villagers, I'll take up position at the gate."
"Alright." She moved off to do as he said, letting her tail and ears melt away into her fully human form. People usually seemed to respond better to her that way, at least at first.
Ronin put a hand on the sword on his hip, stopping at the gate. He sat down with crossed legs and clipped both blades from his belt, resting them on his lap.
Waiting.
After making her way around the village, Hana made her way back to the gate, taking her fox form. She gave a small huff to alert Ronin of her presence as she came up beside him.
Ronin's hands were pressed together in an odd sign, his eyes widened. "They are approaching," he replied to the soft huff.
And indeed, in the distance, three mounted figures steadily approached.
Hana sank into a crouch, lips pulling back in a snarl as a growl rumbled in her chest. These bastards were dead.
The riders soon approached Ronin and Hanako. Three of them. One arched an eyebrow and sat back. "Oi!" He called out towards the man and the fox. "Get outta the way, we got bussiness here on Lors Kumiko's behalf."
Ronin looked up at the men, smirking softly. He slowly rose to his feet and clicked the katana from its sheath. "You'll have to get through me."
Hana took her place beside Ronin, teeth bared and tails lashing in anger. "And me," she growled. A few small fires leaped into life around her paws.
"Doesn't this guy fit the descriptio-" his voice was cut off by a loud gurgle as his head rolled down from his shoulders, Ronin standing behind the horse, bloody blade brandished. "Hana, take the other. Leave one alive."
The massive fox barked an affirmative and leaped for the other soldier, fangs and claws bared.
It was a nearly painless kill, which she almost didn't think he deserved, her jaws closing around his throat and snapping his spine in one motion. Dropping back to four paws, she shook the body once, like a dog with a bone, then tossed it away.
The remnant's eyes widened and he stumbled off of the horse, crawling backwards, between his fallen comrades, eyes wide in anguish. Ronin stepped forward, flicking the blade to the side to get the blood off, before sheathing it.
"You report back to your master. This village belongs to me now." He stated with a soft snarl.
Hana took a stance beside the warrior, tails lashing and lips drawn back in a snarl as a low, continuous growl rumbled in her chest. She barked, and a jet of flame leaped into being a few paces in front of the remaining soldier, meant to scare, not harm.
Well...maybe meant to singe a little.
The man seemed to be petrified, crying out in pain as his feet got singed, he crawled back. Ronin sighed softly and ducked down, before flinging the severed head over into the man's lap.
"Run," he stated coldly.
And that was all the motivation he needed. He stood up and started to run for dear life.
With a huff Hana reverted to her halfling form, straightening her shoulders and cracking her neck.
"Well." She tilted her head as she watched the man run. "That went pretty smoothly, all things considered."
She turned to look at Ronin, then hissed in a quiet breath at a sharp pain in her side. She glanced down, pressing a hand over her hip. "Oh, damnit," she muttered. "Bastard nicked me when I knocked him off the horse."
Ronin glanced at her, a large streak of blood across his face and chest, but it clearly wasn't his. He stepped forward to support her.
"Are you alright?" He asked, voice laced with concern.
She tried to wave him off, but the warmth and familiarity of his arm around her was hardly unwelcome, even with the scent of blood clinging to them both.
"I'm fine, it's just a scratch," she assured him, wiping at her mouth with the back of her hand in an attempt to clear some of the blood away. "We should check on that girl," she sighed after a moment.
"They'll be back in several hours, we have to attend to you first," he answered with a soothing tone.
Hana saw the logic in that, much as she didn't want him fussing over her. "Fine," she muttered. "There's a healer around here, right? We'll just grab some bandages and patch me up, no big deal."
Ronin nodded. "We'll ask the elder," he said as he jerked his head towards the house. "Then we also check up on the girl. Two birds with one stone."
"Right. Good." Hana nodded and straightened up, brushing his arm from around her shoulders but taking his hand and squeezing lightly as she moved toward the house. She didn't want him to worry and coddle her, but she did appreciate the gesture and the contact with him.
"Hey, um, elder?" she called, knocking at the door. "Soldiers are dead. And we- I kinda need a healer."
As they approached the house, a dreading aura slowly epanated from it. Like the bloodthirst Hanako had sensed from the girl first. Only more controlled, colder and more calculated.
It felt like the Anomaly.
If she proceeded to knock, Ronin grabbed her hand before she did and glanced at her. "Careful."
Hair standing up on the back of her neck, the kistune drew back. "What is that?" she asked quietly, shrinking back against his chest.
Ronin urged Hanako backwards, drawing out his blade again.
He stepped back, kicking the door completely down, stepping in with the katana brandished.
"So you have returned," the small girl said, sitting on her knees at the table, a cup in her hands.
The entire place scented of blood, and next to her was something covered by a blanket. No doubt the elder's corpse.
Hana growled and shifted, flanking Ronin as she caught the scent of blood. "What are you?" she snarled at the girl, hackles raising.
"Exactly the same as him," she replied as she stared at Ronin. "A disciple," she explained, before notioning. "Sit. I mean no harm, I will explain."
Ronin glanced at Hanako, before nodding and walking over. He put his katana on the table for quick access, before sitting down. "You killed your grandfather."
She nodded. "I know. And I regret it. Lord Kumiko.. Can infuse others. Much like the Anomaly."
She crept into the room, still growling quietly, and laid curled around her lover, ready to spring to her feet at any moment, tails lashing in anger.
Ronin nodded softly. "And if you're an assassin of his, why do you not attack me now and attempt to kill me?"
The girl let out a soft sigh. "I easily could. But aswell as infusing, he curses us. Free thinking is taken away. But he must be exhausted and fail to exert his control for long enough. I harbor no sympathy towards him. The Anomaly also wishes to remove him."
"So what do you want then?" Hana growled. Her tails curled protectively around Ronin as she stared the girl down.
"I want to lend my assistance to you to make Kumiko dissappear," she replied with a soft sigh.
The kitsune huffed but kept quiet, waiting for Ronin to respond. Andrenaline still ran through her, distracting her from various twinges of pain over her body.
"What so you think?" Ronin inquired as he goanced pver at Hanako. "She can no doubt be a great asset," he answered. "But can we trust her? She did kill the elder, after all. And we're discussing here like nothing happened."
She shrugged. "Up to you. I don't know what she is, but it's not entirely human. Just because we can't trust her doesn't mean we can't use her."
Ronin nodded, glancong back at the girl. "Good. As you might know, the three soldiers sent here were disposed off. One has returned and is probably reporting to Kumiko right as we speak. Then we'll have to deal with a batallion sent for the village."
Hana got to her feet with a small wince. "Someone needs to tell the villagers their elder is dead," she murmured, tails sweeping in a low arc behind her.
Ronin nodded. "After today, we will grant him the proper rites," he followed to Hanako.
"I'd like to make those arrangementents," the dark assassin requsted as she got to her feet. "I know I used to love this man with all my heart. I would like to honor the memory to that life."
The kitsune shrugged, her fur rippling. "Do as you like, he was your kin." She looked to Ronin. "I'll tell the others about the elder and gather them in the square. You should talk to them then, explain what they need to do."
Ronin nodded softly. "I will," he replied as he turned around to exit the building.
It didn't take her long to gather the members of the village- it was a small place. She took human form to do so, and it was how she greeted Ronin when everyone had collected in the center of the small town, moving to his side and brushing his arm lightly so he knew who she was as she took her place beside him in silence.
Ronin nodded softly at Hanako. "Did you get someone to look at the wound aswell?" He inquired with a soft murmur, before looking at tuhe gathered villagers.
"Not yet," she replied just as softly. "Seems like we've got bigger issues to deal with at the moment, ya know? I'll get to it."
He nodded slowly, before turningbto the villagers. He coughed loudly to get their attention.
A soft breath. "Some of you may have seenbme around here already. I am but a mere Ronin, hired to protect the village and coordinate the rebellion against Kumiko," he started. "And I will do as such. As you have heard, Hanako and myself have dispatched of the regular patrol. A division will be sent for us." He took a deep sigh. "But, there is more grave news. Your elder lies dead. Murdered by Kumiko's deceit. I am truly sorry, but now is not the time."
He stepped forward. "Those who wish to fight for their homes, stand here. Those who are unable to fight, follow Izuki." Ronin stated, not having missed the assassin that silently slipped into the shadows, before stepping out again. People were surprised at the mention of her name, but followed her regardless.
"Good speech," Hana murmured out of the corner of her mouth, unable to help herself. "Short, sweet, to the point. You could make a living out of this, if you ever tire of the whole wandering hero thing."
"Just finding the right words," Ronin answered, waiting for Izuki and the people deciding to remain uninvolved leaving. He glanced back at the small group and sighed softly. "Arm yourselves and report to the main gate in fifteen minutes."
"I'll see a healer," Hana murmured as he gave orders. "Fifteen minutes should be enough time to patch up a cut, yeah?"
She laid a hand on his shoulder and leaned up to kiss his cheek with a whispered, "Well done, my brave warrior."
Ronin nodded. "Should be plenty."
He put a hand on Hanako's shoulder, pressing a quick peck on her lips. "Along you go. Get patched up," he urged with a soft murmur.
She smiled at him, catching his hand and raising it to her lips for a moment so he could "see", then slipped away, twisting and tripping through the small village to the healer's hut on the outskirts- she really only knew where she was going because of her earlier trek around the village to gather its residents.
"Ma'am? I think I need some bandaging, and a poultice if it's not too much trouble."
The old woman must have been some sort of midwife by trade, but she made a decent healer all things considered. When Hana asked why she hadn't followed Izuki, she simply muttered, "Fighting always means plenty of wounds to patch up. Figured I'd be more useful here."
"Hmm." The kitsune sat back and let the woman work, tapping her foot a little impatiently until the healer swatted at her head and told her off for it.
"Now, I know you're kind heal quick, but try to go easy on this for a while," she said once her work had been done. She frowned as Hana stood with a nod and murmured thanks. "I must say, I can't approve of you fighting in your condition, but I can't very well stop you."
Heading for the door, Hana paused. "Condition? What condition?"
The healer blinked at her, then understanding seemed to cross her face. "You don't know." She huffed out a breath. "I suppose it's understandable, still early on, but I've got a sense for such things. It's why I do what I do."
Hana felt her stomach sink. "What condition?"
The healer sighed again. "You're with child."
Oh. Oh no. The world sort of tilted sideways and Hana gripped at the door frame for support. Her mind whirled and she felt sick. All she could manage to get out, amid the dozens of thoughts clamoring to heard, was, "Don't- don't tell Ronin." And she staggered back out to meet the others.
Ronin returned the soft smile, before turning around.
In these moments of silence before the storm, Ronin always felt serene.
He sat down again, legs crossed, both blades on his lap. His hands rested ontop of those. All he could do nowbwas making sure he wasn't too.nervous.
His calmth and serenity inspired the villagers that joined him. At first, they were wary, but soon, others started to follow his exemple.
Hana reached Ronin quickly, but she hesitated, not wanting to alert him of her presence. He would tell something was wrong- her breathing was elevated, heart rate too fast, and gods only knew what sort of voice she could squeak out at the moment.
So she took a few deep breaths to calm herself, then moved forward and settled herself beside him, taking her hybrid form as she did. She didn't say anything, her mind racing even as she tried to calm it.
How had this happened? They'd been using that charm- but before, once or twice... Damnit.
Ronin looked in her direction and nodded softly. He got to his feet and sighed. "Kumiko's men will be here soon."
Hana nodded and stood beside him. "Right." She cleared her throat, shoving what the healer had said from her mind. "I can sneak around through the trees and flank them, attack from behind in fox form."
Ronin nodded softly. "I'll engage from the front, but you stay back and hurl fire at them, rather than getting close."
"Alright." She frowned slightly and touched his arm. "You know I've got your back, but...be careful, love. Promise."
"I promise," Ronin replied with a soft smile, before walking out the gate, the villagers following him.
Taking a fortifying breath, Hana moved into position just at re village gate, gathering fire in her hands at at her feet, waiting.
Ronin took some of the villagers to be the bulk of the small group, him spearheading it.
And in the distance, a small group of soldiers was visible.
The kitsune felt a growl building in her chest. Hands outstretched, she sent a jet of fire at the soldiers, heat and light exploding at their feet in warning.
Ronin smirked softly, clicking the katana from his sheath.
Shields were raised. A figure appeared from the shadows next to him. It was none other than Izuki. "You know you'll have to use it," she merely stated, before dissappearing again.
Ronin could only nod. The small girl was right.
He stretched one arm up, the other down, circling them before clapping his hands infront of his chest.
At that, he dissappeared with a puff of shadows. Coming back into existence behind the wall of shields. The villagers charged as he disrupted the defenses, Izuki having appeared by his side and fighting alongside Ronin.
Hana was dying to be a part of the fray, but she had her orders. She hung back, tossing fire into the soldiers' midst and chanting soft spells under her breath, summoning illusions when she could to confuse and distract them.
The villagers came crashing down into the soldiers
And a bloody battle later, only some villagers were left standing alongside Ronin. The soldiers were decimated.
A soft breath came from him, before he slumped to his knees, gritting his teeth, an knife sticking out from his chest.
Hana's eyes were sharper than most, and as they battle died down she cried out and raced forward. She slid on her knees to collapse next to Ronin, holding his shoulders and barking, "Get the healer, now!"
Eyes wide and panicky, she tried to lower the warrior to the ground as gently as possible, cradling him on her lap. "Hey, sweetheart, you stay with me okay? You're gonna be okay..."
When she got closer however, it was clear this wasn't the only one. Besides the bruises and shallow cuts, several needles sticking from his neck, shoulder, torso. Practically every weakspot.
A soft and menacing chuckle sounded as something rose from Hanako's shadow. "Die," resounded a deep and gritty voice.
But the killing blow never reached her. The assassin's head whipped back with a trail of blood, a knife planted right between his eyes. "Amateur," was what Izuki stated, before she rushed over to Ronin.
Hana barely glanced at the assassin, at how close she'd come to death. She held Ronin against her and stared at Izuki. "Please," she whispered. "Please. You must be able to do something. Don't let him die, please."
Ronin seemed.to barely breathe, even his throat was punctured by several of the needles. A miracle th t he was still alive.
Izuki pulled down the cloth infront of her mouth, pushing one of her fingers underneath the needles, dabbing the blood against her tongue. "Poison. He is dying," she said, standing up again. "Kumiko sent a group for him, purely to kill him."
She sighed softly and got on her knees. "There is nothing we can do, if you have any words for him." She glanced down, a hint of pity seen in her eyes.
Hana's heart felt like it was ripping in two. She choked back a sob and clutched him to her, pressing her forehead against his.
"No," she whispered, tears streaking down her cheeks to fall on his. "No no no no. You promised, Daisuke, you can't leave me alone, please. Please, love, please..."
Crying in earnest now, she kissed him, harsh and desperate. "I can't do this without you," she sobbed. "Please, please. You have to stay, stay with me."
Her hand circled his wrist, slowly pressing his palm to her belly. "Stay with us. Please."
His lifeforce was slowly seeping away. And so was hers, she would feel the drain. The bond they had shared frop the beginning.
Yet, the instant the word us was spoken. Something stirred. Something dark.
Shadows slowly manifested around him, his left eye cracked open, iris completely red as it frantically looked around, the needles slowly started to disintegrate, the wounds closing.
In her panic, Hana had actually forgotten that his death meant hers as well. She gasped as life started to drain from her, cold creeping in- then it suddenly stopped.
She stared at Ronin as the shadows emerged and he started to heal, eyes wide. "Daisuke?" she breathed.
He grabbed the knife in his chest and pulled it out, blood spluttering from the wound as he sat up. Only instants later, the wound was healed. He looked at Hanako with that one red eye. The other still closed. "Haanako," he whispered, before putting his bloody hands on her face. "So this is you.."
A sob caught in her throat and she cupped his face between her palms in turn, uncaring of the blood he smeared across her cheeks.
"Hi," she whispered, her eyes flicking over his face, then fixing on his eyes. Eye. "Oh gods, Daisuke, I thought I'd lost you..."
She broke down, pressing her forehead to his and crying quietly as she peppered soft little kisses over his lips and cheeks, tasting blood on her tongue and not giving a damn.
Ronin let out a soft sigh, closing his eye again, resting his forehead against hers. Hehugged her tightly, pulling her closer.
Hana clung to him as she did her best to swallow the sobs. "We- we should get you to the healer," she hiccuped quietly. "Just to be safe, yeah?"
Ronin took a deep breath. "Are you hurt?" He asked. He was healed now, he didn't know how, but he most certainoy did know by what.
"No. No, I'm fine." Now. Her chest still hurt in that strange, heart-ripping way, but the pain was dulling.
She leaned back a bit, smoothing stray strands of hair out of his face. "What happened? What do you remember?"
"I was just," Ronin took a deep sigh. "Everything went dark.. And cold.. I heard you calling out, but I couldn't make out the words." He sighed softly. "I- I can't remember clearly, but somewhere.. Something.. Told me I wasn't allowed to die."
A few more tears trickled down her cheeks and she smiled, leaning in to kiss him deeply. "Come on." She slipped his arm around her shoulders and started to stand, pulling him with her. "Your troops need healing, and you need rest."
Hana reached up a hand to smooth her thumb over his cheek, looking at his now red eye. "You- you can really...see me?"
Ronin stood up straight with a soft nod, leaning on Hanako for support. He nodded softly. "I can," he answered with a soft sob.
Laughing and crying, she threw her arms around his middle and leaned up to pepper kisses over his face.
Once she'd taken a few breaths to calm herself enough to speak, she joked haltingly, "So? Do I live up to expectations?" She started to move them forward slowly, trying to guide him back into the village.
Ronin stepped along with her, smiling faintly. "More beautiful than I could possibly imagine.."
Hana smiled, blushing through the streaks of blood smeared over her cheeks. "I think you're just not used to seeing," she chuckled quietly.
She steered him toward the town square, where the healer had set up shop, tending to wounded villagers sprawled over the ground or leaning tiredly against houses.
Ronin smirked softly, but decided to try and catch his breath now. "I'm fine," he stated. "Let's just go home.."
She frowned. "Are you sure?" Her eyes flicked to the healer- the woman was busy, and if all he really needed was rest.
"Fine," she huffed. "But once things calm down I'm getting her to take a look at you." She started moving them back toward the house.
Ronin nodded softly. "Deal," he breathed softly.
Bustling him into the house, Hana pushed him toward the bed, then immediately set to work stripping him out of his armor and clothes. Sure he said he was healed, but she really wanted to see for herself, just to make sure.
A soft sigh of relief escaped her and she smoothed her hands over his skin, brushing away smears of blood. Her head dropped forward onto his shoulder and she shook slightly with suppressed sobs.
Ronin pulled her closer and sushed her softly. "It's alright, Hana," he muttered, pressing soft kisses on her head.
"It's not alright," she sniffled. "That was just their first wave. What if- what if-"
A sob caught in her throat and she hid her face against his chest. "I c-can't do this alone, Daisuke."
She hadn't wanted to tell him, had feared it would only be a distraction, but now...
Ronin shook his head softly. "With these losses they suffered, they won't send anyone any time soon," Ronin replied, lips still resting on her head. He squeezed her softly. "And you won't do it alone."
"That's...that's not what I meant."
She found she couldn't raise her head, keeping her face hidden against him. With a shaky breath, she murmured, "You- don't remember? What I said when you were...?" Well. Dying.
"I couldn't figure out the words," Ronin replied, cradling her softly.
"I-"
The words seemed to catch in her throat, rendering her mute. She opened her mouth, but sound refused to come out.
With a huff, she held him a little tighter and murmured, "You- you should get some sleep. I can't even imagine how overwhelmed you must be right now."
She couldn't tell him. Not now, not after she'd just got him back.
"You wanted to say something else?" Ronin inauired with a soft hum.
She lifted her head to smiled at him, reaching up to stroke his cheek. "Later," she murmured. "It's... Later."
She got to her feet and kissed his forehead, letting the touch linger. "I'm gonna get some water so we can wash some of this off." She gestured to the blood that was still streaked over their skin and clothes. "Just- rest, alright?"
Ronin nodded softly. "Tell me later," he answered. Leaning back against the table and closing his eye with a sigh.
"I- I will." Another kiss and she slipped out of the house, making her way to the small well the village seemed to get most of its water from and returning with a bucket full as fast as she could.
The scent of death and blood permeated the air, she didn't want to linger any longer than she had to.
Back in the house, she approached and gently touched Ronin's arm, a habit to alert him to her presence. Then she remembered and withdrew her hand with a soft, "Oh. Right."
She huffed out a breath and settled beside him, dipping cloth into the water and setting about wiping at his face and neck gently.
Ronin smiled softly as he felt the touch on his arm. "Old habit, huh," he said with a smile.
He sat up, tilting his head to allow her better acces.
Hana smiled at him in return and murmured, "I guess so." She moved to his chest and shoulders, shucking her own clothes as she did so she could swipe at the streaks of blood over her body.
She suddenly paused, realizing that despite how often they'd lain together, Ronin had never actually seen her naked. She flushed, then shook her head and cleared her throat, trying to put it from her mind as she resumed her efforts to clean them both.
And he was staring alright. It was the first time he'd see about anyone naked. Jaw dropped slightly, obviously speechless.
Glancing up at his face, Hana leaned back, brow furrowed. "Daisuke?" She looked down at herself- clean now- then back to him, and her face flushed. "Um...s-something wrong?"
Ronin shook his head. "I'm sorry, everything's fine," he murmured.
She tilted her head at him and swiped at the last few streaks of blood over his chest and stomach. "You sure? You looked kinda out of it for a second," she murmured, dunking the cloth back into the bucket and then standing with a sigh, stretching her arms over her head and arching her back.
Ronin looked up at her, taking a deep breath. "You're beautiful," he whispered softly.
Hana started and blinked at him. Her cheeks flushed and her ears flicked back against her skull almost shyly, tails curling around her legs as she bit her lip.
"Thank you," she murmured, meeting his eyes with a small smile. Why did she feel like a nervous adolescent all of the sudden? She shook herself, then held her hand out to him. "Come on, sweetheart. Let's go to bed."
Ronin took her hand and stood up, pulling her closer for a soft kiss. "Let's," she murmured.
She returned the kiss gently, moving back toward the small bed as she did. She sat, pulling him with her, and wrapped her arms around him as she leaned in for a few more light, airy kisses.
Ronin softly pushed her down on the bed, resting his knee on the edge as he leaned in above her, he pressed a soft kiss to her cheek, then her lips.
Hana hitched in a soft breath, twisting to catch his lips with hers and bending her knee to press her leg against his hip.
"Daisuke..." She clutched at his shoulders, hugging him to her tightly. "You really scared me today," she mumbled into the curve of his neck, feathering kisses over his skin.
He nodded faintly. "I'm sorry," he whispered.
She shook her head. "I know. I just-" She let out a sharp breath. "When you- I started to feel you going. I mean feel it, the bond or whatever. And I knew I was going to die too, but I didn't even care at that point."
She was crying again, hiding her face against his shoulder. "I've never felt like that about anyone before," she sniffled. "It- it scares me."
"It's love," Ronin replied as he rolled next to her, hugging her close as he did. "And I feel the same. And it is terrifying."
Another sniffle and she tucked her head up under his chin. One tail came around to wrap over his hip and she hooked her leg over his, pressing as close as she could.
If this was terrifying, how on earth were they going to handle a baby?
Oh gods, she had to tell him. It wasn't doing either of them any favors to keep it secret. "Daisuke, I- I'm-"
She took a breath, then said in a rush, "I went to the healer and she said I shouldn't be fighting in my condition and I didn't know what she meant so I asked and she hedged and I got frustrated and then she told me I'm going to have a baby."
His eye widened slightly. "Y-you're pregnant?"
Hana swallowed, then nodded very slowly, mute. She couldn't bring herself to meet his gaze, keeping her eyes fixed on his chest.
Ronin nodded softly, pressing a soft kiss on her scalp. "We'll get through it," he said, before letting out a faint chuckle. "We're going to be parents, Hana," he leaned back to look her in the eyes, smiling softly. "After this, we'll settle down, kick back and raise a child, I'll take a calm and dull job to make sure I don't get hurt." He squeezed her shoulders slightly. "After we kill Kumiko."
She burst into tears, throwing her arms around his neck and raining kisses over his face. "Y-you're certainly taking this better than I d-did," she said with a watery chuckle, pressing her forehead to his.
Hana squeezed her eyes shut and took a shuddering breath. "I don't know how to be a mom, Daisuke," she whispered. "I- I'm less scared of Kumiko than I am of this..."
Ronin could only chuckle softly. "You'll do fine, Hana," he pressed a soft kiss on her lips. "I know you will. I trust you will." He smiled against her lips. "If you don't believe yourself, believe in me, since I believe in you."
She let out a soft breath, kissing him back gently. "Okay," she murmured. "Okay. I can do that."
A very small smile curved at her lips and she kissed the tip of his nose. "You're going to be a father, Daisuke Shizuka."
Ronin smirked softly. "You're going to be a mother, Hana."
He chuckled softly. "We're going to do this.. Together."
Hana nodded, tucking herself closer against his chest and twining her fingers through his. "Together," she repeated, eyes fluttering closed as a yawn overtook her.
"Together," Ronin repeated, before chuckling softly. "Let's sleep," he murmured.
"Mhm." She kissed the hollow at the base of his throat and wrapped another tail over his hip, ears perked forward as she closed her eyes and snuggled in with a soft, contented sigh before starting to drift off.
Ronin yawned softly. "Hana?" He tried softly.
"Mm?" Eyes still closed, she forced herself to be awake enough to answer. "Wassa matter?"
"You're beautiful," he murmured in response, drifting off aswell. "I love you, no matter what."
Her cheeks warmed pleasantly and she purred, kissing his cheek and then nuzzling into his neck. "I love you too," she murmured just before she slipped into unconsciousness.
Shortly after Hana fell asleep, Ronin grunted, hugging her close as he rolled on his back again, pulling her up with him. He pressd anlther weak kiss on her scalp before falling asleep himself.
Hana murmured and snuggled closer in her sleep, but otherwise was fairly still during the night. She woke around dawn to find herself curled up on Ronin's chest, legs drawn up toward her stomach and arms wrapped around his neck.
She smiled and leaned in to kiss his cheek softly, not wanting to wake him but evidently unable to help herself.
Ronin stirred slightly at the kiss, letting out a soft snort as his eye fluttered open. "What time?" He inquired.
"Several minutes past sunrise," Izuki's voice came from a corner of the room.
"Gods!"
Hana yelped and rolled off the bed, landing in a crouch with her ears flatted to her skull and tails lashing.
She huffed out a breath and glowered at Izuki as she started to calm down. "What the hell are you doing?"
"Guarding you two," she stated as she got to her feet. "Kumiko's assassins don't sleep."
"And you couldn't have given us some sort of warning about what you planned to do last night?" she demanded, exasperated.
"You were already asleep, it seemed unwise to wake you for such trivial matter," she replied coldly.
Ronin couldn't help but chuckle. "Next time, Izuki, warn at least one of us. Even if you have to wake me or Hana up."
The kitsune dragged a hand down her face with a quiet grumble. "Yes. Please."
Remembering she wasn't wearing anything, she bundled herself back under the covers with a small shiver and glanced at the girl. "Don't suppose you'd be willing to grab my clothes from the other room?"
Izuki nodded softly, turning around as she dissappeared with a puff of shadows, reappearing next to the bed as she held Hanako's clothes out. "Here."
"Thanks."
With a sigh as the girl made no move to leave, she ducked under the covers and set about dressing herself.
Ronin stood up straight, stretching slowly as he yawned, before getting dressed aswell.
"They're going to choose a new elder," Izuki stated. "And the possibility of you being sent away exists."
Hana sighed as she emerged from the bed. "Can't say I'm surprised, exactly," she muttered. She looked to Ronin. "Where would we go?"
Ronin let out a soft sigh. "I don't know," he glanced at Hanako. "Besides, we can't stop now. We have to take Kumiko out."
"You're right." Another quiet sigh, then she shook her head firmly. "One thing at a time." She leaned in to kiss his cheek and murmured, "Get dressed, love, I'll scrounge up something to eat."
Ronin nodded. "One thing at a time," he smiled softly, starting to pull his clothes and armour on.
Izuki snorted softly. "I'll sneak around the village a bit, see what the word is," she said, before turning around and dissappearing into the shadows.
Hana nodded and slipped out to hunt up some food. She didn't find much, but it was enough to get them by, and she returned to the bedroom offering a plate. "Here."
Ronin glanced over his shoulder as he clipped the sheathe of his sword to his belt. "Thank you, dear," he replied as took the plate, sitting down on the floor with crossed legs, patting the floor besides him. "Let's enjoy the peace and quiet while we still can."
She smiled and settled beside him. "Alright." She leaned into his side as she picked at her food.
"This is weird," she laughed quietly after a moment. "It's so...normal."
"It's peaceful," Ronin answered, turning to press a soft kiss on her head. "We'll do this each morning during our vacation."
"Mmm..." She leaned into him a little more. "We'll need more food than this," she laughed after a moment. "I have a big enough appetite when I'm not- well. Ya know..." She waved a hand toward her belly, cheeks heating a bit.
"I'll make sure food isn't an issue," he murmured softly.
Hana blushed a little darker and kissed his cheek. "Eat your breakfast," she murmured, uncomfortable with the emotions swirling in her chest as she got to her feet, stroking his arm gently.
Ronin chuckled softly as he glanced up at her. "Yes dear," he said with a soft grin, before proceeding to eat.
She crinkled her nose at him and dipped to kiss the top of his head, stroking her hand over his hair lightly before moving away to straighten up a bit.
If they were going to be leaving, she may as well keep the place nice for the its next inhabitants.
After he was done, Ronin stood up and went to find Hanako.
When he did, he hugged her from behind and pressed a soft kiss on her cheek. "I think it'd be best to return to Kunata," he murmured.
Hana let out a soft breath and leaned back into his embrace, realizing she felt instantly safer with his arms around her.
"Could we?" she murmured softly. "How far does Kumiko's influence reach? Once he's gone, his people may not be happy with us."
"Not to Kunata," Ronin answered with a soft sigh. "But if we prove I can defeat his leader one on one, I find it hard to believe his troops would rally under him."
She twisted in his arms to look up at his face, brow furrowed and eyes narrowed with concern. "Can you?" she whispered. "I've seen you fight, Daisuke, I know how good you are. But- but this guy doesn't play fair. I almost lost you yesterday..."
"I have no choice," he replied with a soft sigh. "If he's assassinated, someone else. Someone possibly more ruthless would take his place. And more people will be killed. And more people like Izuki will be made."
"I know. I know..." She trailed off and clenched her eyes shut, pressing forward against his chest. "I just- I'm selfish, Daisuke. I'm not a hero, I'm just...me."
She looked up to meet his eyes. "I can't lose you. Even if we weren't bond together."
"I know," he soflty runbed her arm as he hugged her tightly. "And it makes me happy you feel that way," he admitted, pressing a soft kiss to the back of her head.
He gazed down in her eyes. "And I couldn't all the same, Hana. I love you dearly."
"Then promise me." Hana hid her face in the crook of his neck. "Promise me you won't let him k- hurt you, or I swear I will knock your ass out and drag you back to the docks myself to get us off this island."
"It's a duel, Hanako. I will get hurt regardless," he hugged her tightly. "But I refuse to die."
"Good." She hugged him back, and though she was loathe to break the contact she knew they couldn't hide out in the house forever.
"We should go," she whispered reluctantly.
Ronin nodded slowly, squeezing her softly before letting go. "We should. He gained this time, but the battle is not over yet."
Hana nodded and took a breath. She stepped back and smiled at him softly. "I follow you, Diasuke Shizuka."
Ronin smiled faintly and walked to the door, pushing it open and walking out. Met with a crowd of people, Uzuki standing at the head of them.
And all of a sudden, she kneeled down, the villagers following her exemple.
The kitsune blinked, utterly bemused. "Um...what's happening?" she whispered out of the corner of her mouth.
"I have.. No idea," Ronin answered, rather taken aback at the scene.
"Do not leave," one of the villagers at the front stated.
Hana skittered back a step, startled, and pressed against Ronin's side. She looked over the gathered crowd, unsure what to say to them- or if she should say anything at all.
Ronin also seemed rather speechless. "Without you, Kumiko will be able to easily destroy this village to crush any traces of a rebellion," was what Izuki stated as she stood up straight, joining at their side. "Congratulations, Elder."
"Um." Hana raised a finger. "Question: would someone please explain what the hell just happened?"
Roniç stepped back, shakiçg his head slowly. "I.. No. I can't be the village elder," Ronin stammered. "I.. I can't."
Izukii blinked at Hanako, "there is no one who can be an Elder here. Ronin is the only one who can properly protect this village now."
"Well, tell him that!" Hana exclaimed, eyes round. "I'm not his keeper."
She pressed closer against his side, gripping his hand tightly. "I'm with you," she murmured, low enough that only he would hear. "Whatever you choose, I'm with you."
Ronin squeezed her hand tightly. "I'm not ready," he whispered in return to Hanako. "But these people.. Will die if I don't."
Ronin took a deep breath. "So be it," he brought forth, stepping forward, still holding Hanako's hand.
She nodded slightly, squeezing his hand and moving forward to stay at his side. One tail curved around to wrap gently around his legs, chin held high and ears perked forward.
"I'm right here," she murmured, lips barely moving. "I'm right here with you."
Ronin nodded softly, squeezing her hand softly in response. "This will be our new home," Ronin stated as he glanced at Hanako with a soft nod. "Let's defend it," he stated. For the village, but also for Hana in particular.
The kitsune met his gaze and nodded firmly. "Right."
She looked out at the crowd. "Well. I suppose we'd better get started."
Ronin nodded softly. "Those who can still carry a blade will recieve combat training," he stated. "People will die the coming days. But a lot more will perish if we allow Kumiko's rule to proceed. Those who cannot, or do not have the stomach to, fight. Help out the village in other ways. Tend to the wounded, gather resources, build defenses. We need to reinforce the walls so that their only way in is a chokepoint we can heavily guard."
Ronin snorted softly. "Combat training will be set when the sun is at it's highest. Now, we have to focus on the wall. We have respite now Kumiko's men are beaten. I will be in the elder's house. Dismissed."
The villagers nodded and scrambled from the field, heading to their bussiness.
Hana watched curiously as he gave orders. "What should I do?" she asked softly as the villagers scurried to their assigned tasks.
Ronin glanced at Hanako, nodding softly. "There are some things I want to dicuss with you."
"Okay." She forced a small smile. "I'll pretend that doesn't sound ominous."
"It isn't a bad thing," Ronin answered with a soft smile. "Come," he nodded towards the house.
Hana nodded, taking his hand and slipping into the house with him. "Alright. What's on your mind?"9
Ronin followed her closely, before glancing at her. "This might be a stupid question.. But do you have a last name, Hana?"
"Hm?" She paused, then suddenly blushed. "Um...no, I don't actually. Not really. I was...found when I was a kit. I don't know who my people are."
It struck her suddenly that despite how well they new each other, she hadn't really talked about her childhood before.
Ronin nodded softly. "I see," he smiled softly. "Is there any name you ever wanted?"
"Hmm. No, not really." She turned to loop her arms around her neck and smiled at him. "I've always been happy just being Hanako."
Her eyes softened a bit and she added quietly, "Although...I suppose...Shizuka isn't a bad name, really..." Her cheeks flushed and she ducked her eyes.
Ronin stepped in to hug her closely, shaking his head softly. "Shizuka is out of the question. I am not entitled to that name."
Hana shook her head. "It's still yours," she murmured, pressing her cheek against his chest to feel his heartbeat.
Then she shrugged and tilted her head back to smile at him. "But like I said- I've always been content with just Hanako. Why do you ask?"
"It isn't, Hana. As much as I regret that," he oressed a soft kiss on her head. "It's because we need a last name.. And a name for the child aswell." He smirked softly. "Elder Ronin doesn't sound very good."
Oh. Right. Her hand fluttered unconsciously toward her lower belly, pressing lightly. "Well...Tobin, the man who found me... His surname is Sorrence. He's pretty much the only family I've ever had, so..." She shrugged.
"Sorrence?" Ronin hummed softly. "Is that a name you'd want to use?"
She tilted her head, considering. "I certainly don't mind it," she murmured eventually. "What do you think?"
Ronin smiled softly. "I like it."
"Alright then." Hana smiled in response and leaned up to kiss him softly. "Sorrence it is."
Ronin smiled softly, putting his hand on Hana's belly. "How should we call him.. Or her?"
She jumped slightly at the touch, not expecting it, then smiled and placed her hand gently over his. "I don't know," she laughed. "I hadn't really given it much thought..."
Ronin smiled softly. "Do we want to give it any thought now?"
"Well, what do you want to call him? Her. It?" Hana screwed up her face and laughed again. "Should we pick two names? Boy and girl?"
"It?" Ronin inquired with a soft chuckle.
"We should just list some names," Ronin answered with a soft smile.
She huffed and glanced at her belly with a small, considering frown. "Yuki?" she suggested after a moment. "That works for a boy or a girl."
"I like Yuki," Ronin answered with a soft smile. "Though I also like Mamoru for a boy," he pressed a soft kiss on Hana's head. "He who protects."
"There we go then." She smiled and tilted her head back to kiss his cheek. "Yuki for a girl, Mamoru for a boy."
Ronin smiled softly, turning his head to press a kiss on her lips in return. "We'll make it through, Hana. We always do."
Hana shivered slightly, wrapping her arms around his waist. "How do you always know when I'm worried?" she grumbled as she hid her face against his shoulder.
"Because I know you," Ronin answered truthfully, planting a kiss underneath her ear. "I love you," he murmured softly, closing his eye.
Hana moved her arms up to hug around his shoulders and purred quietly as she tilted her head to offer him better access. "I love you too," she murmured, kissing his nose, then his lips softly.
She sighed quietly. "I wish I could steal you for the day," she whispered. "I swear to gods I'd keep you in that bedroom until you couldn't see straight."
Ronin couldn't help but chuckle. "We have several hours untill I actually have to do something," he offered with another gentle kiss on her lips.
She growled playfully and nipped at his bottom lip. "You really shouldn't have given me that opening..."
"Perhaps," Ronin chuckled. "But perhaps it was a bait and all part of my elaborate masterplan," he answered with a soft grin, hands dropping to her hips as he pressed another soft kiss forward against Hana's lips.
Hana laughed quietly into the kiss even as she started to move back with shuffling steps, leading him to the bedroom. "You devious man, you," she teased quietly. Her hands moved to tangle in his hair and press against his back lightly.
Ronin chuckled softly. "You're going to tie my hair when we're done, however," Ronin added with a soft smirk, before picking Hanako up, pushing her up against the wall of the bedroom.
A soft gasp left her, then she chuckled quietly and wrapped her legs around his waist. "Deal," she purred, tilting her head to kiss his neck. "Now." She rocked her hips into his. "I sort of wonder what you can do to me now that you can actually see what you're doing," she teased.
"Did I fail to please you in the past?" Ronin inquired with a soft chuckle. He pressed a soft kiss on her cheek, holding her up with one hand, fumbling at his pants with the other. He chuckled softly. "Some help?"
"Never," Hana breathed, nipped gently at his ear. Her hands slid down to help him slide his pants down over his hips, then hiked the hem of her kimono up around her waist and rubbed against him teasingly.
Ronin left out a soft grunt as he felt Hanako rubbing her folds across his length. "Good," he managed to say between pants. One of his hands slid down to squeeze her ass softly, before he thrust forward against her. "And no underwear?" He breathed softly. "Naughty."
"Mmn!" Hana panted quietly and dropped her head forward onto his shoulder, his fingers curling around his biceps. "You love it," she murmured, nuzzling into the curve of his neck and shoulder.
She rocked forward against him, grinding her hips against his and shivering delicately. One hand moved down to his, splaying his fingers over her ass to brush against the base of her tails.
Ronin let out a ragged chuckle. "perhaps," he breathed, angling himself slightly to find the best angle for Hana.
He felt his hand being guided to her the base of her tails. He smirked softly and started to stroke her the base slowly. A soft smirk came across his face as he glanced down at Hanako's body, drinking in the sight. It was after all a first time.
His other hand gripped around her tighs to support her more easily. "You're.. Beautiful," Ronin grunted softly.
Hana gave a soft whimper as tingles of pleasure shivered up her spine and she gripped his shoulders for an anchor.
Despite everything, a small blush rose to her cheeks at the simple compliment and she dropped her eyes, panting lightly. "I- I'm just...me," she whispered. She tightened her legs around his waist and rocked against him a little more fiercely.
"Oh gods, Daisuke." She kissed him with growing hunger, pleading softly, "More, love. Make me forget everything else."
Just.. You is.. Beautiful," he breathed with a soft grin, before groaning deeply as he felt Hanako forcing herself back more fiercely.
After he heard her practically beg for it, Ronin grit his teeth and started to pick up the pace, stepping back slightly. The only thing keeping her up now was Ronin. And he started to bounce her up and down.
"A-ah...mmm. Ahh! Ahhhn!" Hana clutched at him desperately, frantically rocking her hips as he moved her against him. "There, right there- oh gods, Daisuke!" Her nails bit into his shoulders and she threw her head back with a soft wail, tails whipping back and forth behind her.
Ronin grunted softly at the stimulation, forcing his eye shut as he panted softly. "Hana," he groaned breathlessly.
Hana caught his lips in a desperate kiss, panting lightly as she clutched him as tight as she could. "I'm...getting close," she breathed against him, her hands moving to bury her fingers in his hair.
Ronin broke the kiss again and rested his forehead against hers. His movements hitching slightly. "Me.. Too.m, Hana," he bit out with a deep groan.
She tightened her legs around his waist as much as she could and slammed her hips against his, taking him in as deep as she could.
With a cry her back arched and she clawed at his shoulders as she came around him, shivering and mewling through the aftershocks.
Ronin let out several deep pants as Hana forced him as deep as she could. "Hana-" he managed to groan out as he came aswell, shortly after her orgasm.
Hana clung to him, panting and shaking lightly. "Love you," she rasped put, turning her face into the curve of his neck and shoulder. "I love you, Daisuke."
Ronin let out a soft breath, leaning against the wall, Hanako still in his arms. "I love you too," he breathed.
She hummed quietly and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek as she slowly let her legs slide down from around his waist.
Ronin smiled softly. "I can still see straight," he teased, holding her close as she got to her feet again.
Hana chuckled and rocked onto her toes to kiss him. "Then I suppose we'll have to fix that," she murmured, pushing his shoulders to urge him back toward the bed.
Ronin sat back on the bed, smirking softly. "Yeah, let's."
"Cheeky," Hana accused with a laugh. She crawled up onto the bed, situating her knees to either side of his hips and bending to press a slow trail of kisses over his chest.
Ronin smirked softly, pressing a kiss on her forehead. "You're still wearing no underwear, though."
"Are you complaining?" Hana say back and lifted her kimono up over her head, tossing it to the side. She leaned over him again, smoothing her hands over his chest and kissing his neck languidly. Her hips rocked against his, slidin herself teasingly along his length with a soft moan.
"I wouldn't dare," Ronin answered with a faint chuckle, resting her hand at the base of her tail again, rubbing it softly. He tilted his head back as his eye fluttered shut, letting out a soft hum off approval. Followed by a soft groan at her teasing.
Her breath hitched and Hana started to rock her hips a little faster, though she still didn't take him inside. Her hands splayed over his chest and she mewed quietly as she bucked herself between his hand on her tails and his sex rubbing against hers.
Ronin grunted softly, before giving her a slow grin. "Enjoying yourself?"' He inquired with a soft chuckle, rubbing her tails softly to add force to the question.
"Mhhmmmm..." She smirked in response, grinding her hips in a little circle against his. "Very much."
She stroked his length teasingly. "I'm sorry, is this a little frustrating for you?" Hana purred.
Ronin let out a soft groan, resting his head back slightly. He wanted to push her down so badly. A soft grit of his teeth at her teasing. This wasn't frustrating. It was near torture. Each time she brushed past, it felt like she was finally going to push herself down, only to pull back. He panted softly, "please," he murmured silently.
"Well." She dipped to kiss him. "Since you asked so nicely."
In a sharp movement she rocked herself down onto him, slamming her hips into his with a lengthy moan and arching her back, head tossed back and eyes falling closed as her breath started to come in pants.
Ronin groaned deeply, closing his eye as she slammed down. His grip on her tails tightening, before loosening again. He panted softly and looked up at her. "Evil," he breathed softly.
"You love it," Hana retorted, though her voice was breathy and low. She started to rock her hips against his, her hands moving to clutch at his shoulders. The fluctuation in pressure on her tails made her whimper softly and she clenched her eyes shut with a small gasp.
"I hate it," Ronin breathed in response. "The pointless teasing," he said with a soft pant, raising his other hand to grip her tails. "Now.. Here is your punishment," he whispered, squeezing her tails with both hands now.
"Ahh-" Hana shivered atop him as electric tingles raced up her spine. "Wh-what do you want?" she gasped, eyes tight shut. "An apology? O-oohhhhh..."
"That would be-ah," he groaned softly. " a start," he concluded, occasionally squeezing and loosening her tails.
She bit her lip and rolled her hips against his. "I- ahhh, I'm s-sorry," she breathed, little whimpers and mewls drawn from her lips. "Oh, ohhh, don't stop. Please, Daisuke, don't stop..."
"Apology accepted," he groaned softly, leaning forward to nurse the crook of her neck as he softly rolled his hips up against her. He grinned softly, before groaning again. "Because-hnnggh.. You asked so.nicely," he breathed, squeezing her tails again.
Hana wailed quietly and her while body shivered against his. "And- and I'm supposed- to be the...sly fox," she panted out as her hands clawed gently at his back. She arched her spine to press her chest against his, whimpering and mewing as her tails snapped back and forth through the air behind her.
"A little more," she whispered, twisting her head to kiss him. "Just a little more, please... Gods, Daisuke!"
Ronin let out a ragged chuckle at her remark, still softly rolling his hips upwards against Hana, squeezing her tails occasionally, pressing soft kisses at the curve of her neck.
"Oh- mmmn, Daisuke...I'm gonna-" With a sharp cry she clenched around him, nails digging into his back and eyes clenching shut.
Daisuke grunted deeplybas he felt Hana tightening all off a sudden, causing him to squeeze her tail a tad harden than before, aswell as buck his hips upwards all of a sudden, panting softly and trying to get back to the slow and rythmic rolling of his hip.
Hana slumped back, a soft cry pulled from her lips as he squeezed her tail. "Just- just a bit too hard, love," she panted, shuddering atop him as she cried to find that rhythm with her hips again.
With a quiet groan she admitted defeat- it was taking too long to come down from the high- and rolled onto her side, pulling him with her. She twisted to prop one leg up on his hip and slide the other under his own legs, offering him more freedom to move.
"I just need...a minute," she whispered, smiling and stroking his face a little shakily.
"Sorry-" Ronin breathed softly, pressing a series of soft kisses on her neck. "Didn't mean.. To hurt you-" he whispered, before pressing a soft kiss on her lips now.
As they rolled over, Ronin smiled warmly, holding still for a moment. "I'll be gentle," he breathed, before leaning forward to press soft kisses on her chest, before moving to softly suck on one of her nipples. One hand still on her tail and rubbing it very carefully. He started to move his hips again, with slow, long and loving movements.
"It's okay." She smiled and petted at his hair gently. "It didn't really hurt, just startled me a bit." She kissed him softly before he moved to busy his mouth elsewhere and her eyes fluttered closed with a groan.
Her tails shivered as he moved, fur rippling along their length, and her breath hitches slightly as she shifted to widen her legs invitingly. Her hands smoothed up over his chest to wrap around his neck and she gave a quiet croon as his attentions to her breast continued.
Ronin let out a soft groan. "Still," he breathed softly, before starting his ministrations to her breast.
Ronin let out a soft smirk, but proceeded to softly suck and nibble her nipple, still slowly thrusting back and forth against Hana.
Hana arched up against him with a quiet mewl, lips parted slightly as she panted. "You..seem to be feeling quite...playful today," she noted with a breathless chuckle that turned into a soft "Mmmn" sound at his attentions.
Ronin didn't do anything but glance up at her at the remark, before closing his eyes again, keeping the ministrations going, aswell as thrusting against her at the same slow and long pace.
Her head fell back and she groaned quietly, one hand scratching lightly down Ronin's back to grip his rear while the other slipped between them so she could rub at herself gently, fingers brushing against his length where they were joined.
He felt the soft caressing on his shaft, his free hand joining hers, brushing his fingers over her slith before his hand settled down, thumb running circles on her clitoris.
"Ahhh..." Hana squeezed her eyes shut and drew in ragged breaths. "Gods, Daisuke, I'm gonna..." Her voice trailed off in another low moan and she grabbed more firmly at his ass, pulling him against her.
"Come with me," she begged quietly.
Ronin grunted softly, trailing soft kisses from one breast to another now and proceeding to pay the same ministrations to her other nipple. He felt himself being forced forward and let out a soft groan, the slow and tantalizing movements hitching slightly. He was close aswell, no doubt about that.
"Mm- ahhh." Hana dipped her head to muffle her moans against his skin as once again she found her peak and tightened around him, going still in his arms and shivering lightly.
A soft groan came from the half orc as his eyes fluttered shut, hips hitching slightly as he came aswell. Slowly rolling his hips to ride out both their orgasms.
A few more shivers and mewls and Hana finally collapsed against him, panting and completely sated. "Mmm...so good," she purred, nuzzling into his neck.
Ronin panted softly, pressing soft kisses against the side of her head. "It was," he agreed with a soft murmur.
"But I...promised you not seeing straight." She pouted slightly and kissed the tip of his nose. "Just give me one minute, I'll make good on that..."
Ronin chuckled softly, returning a kiss on her lips with a soft smirk. "I only have one eye.. So technically."
Hana laughed quietly into the kiss, then let her forehead rest against his. "Just hold me," she murmured, a small smile on her lips as she leaned into the heat of his body.
Ronin did as asked, wrapping one arm around her waist, the other around her shoulders, pressing another soft kiss on her cheek.
"Mm." Hana nuzzled against him happily. "You'd better get your fill while you can. Soon enough I'll be so big you'll want nothing to do with me," she teased
"I'd love you.. Each day of the year," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle.
She crinkled her nose dramatically. "But I'll be all fat. And grouchy. And the morning sickness is only going to get worse..."
Hana started to pale as her teasing sobered into a quiet panic. "Oh gods." She buried her face in her hands with a groan.
Ronin couldn't help but let out a soft laughter at the sudden panick. He pressed a soft kiss on her forehead. "So be it."
But Hana wouldn't be calmed, her breathing suddenly sharp and fast, eyes wide. "I can't do this," she whimpered. "After all that, then I'l have to- oh my gods, no. No. Nope. It- it'll just have to stay inside, everything will be fine, it'll just stay in."
Roninbsighed slowly. "Hana," he murmured qoftly, gabbing her wrists. "It'll be fine. I'll be there with you, the entire way."
"Easy for you to say!" Crimson eyes were wide in her suddenly very pale face. "No one is going up to you saying, "Oh, is that your nostril, mind if I shove this little person through it?"!"
Ronin sighed deeply, pulling her up for a hug. "And the days after that won't be easy either. Waking up for the child, consoling it, feeding it." He smiled softly. "And I don't exactly enjoy seeing you in pain either." Another soft kiss on her forehead. "But it'll be worth it, because it'll be our child."
Another whimper and Hana snuggled into his arms as much as she could. "I'm not ready to be a mother," she whispered, voice tiny and terrified. "I- I never had one, I don't know what to do..."
Ronin shook his head. "You worrying that much.. Testifies that you will be a good mother," he hugged her closely. "We'll do this together."
She didn't say anything, either to agree or argue, and just held him as tight as she could, hiding her face by ducking her head, ears pressed flat to her skull.
"Hana?" Ronin asked softly, shaking her every so slightly.
"I'm...okay," she squeaked out shakily after a moment. "It's just...big. Huge."
He pressed a soft kiss on her forehead. "We'll be fine."
She sighed. "I'm glad you're so calm," she muttered. "At least this kid will have one rational parent."
Ronin shook his head softly. "He'll have two. And a very loving, and lovely, mother."
"Hrmph." She wasn't so convinced.
But worrying wasn't goin to do her any good. She shook her head. "I'm being ridiculous, I'm barely a month along."
Ronin chuckles softly, smoothing his hands up and down her back. "Your words, not mine," he said with a soft smirk.
She mock glared at him. "Thank you for your unconditional love and support, dearest," she grumbled.
Then her expression softened and she kissed his cheek. "Really. Thanks."
Ronin let out a.soft breath, before kissing her forehead. "I love you, Hana. And I'll be there for you."
"I know you will." She let her head rest against his chest with a soft breath. "I love you too."
Ronin let out a soft, content huff, idly smoothing his hands down her back. "You still have to tie my hair," he murmured after a short while of silence.
Hana huffed quietly. "Here, turn over." She reached to card her fingers through his hair, gathering it neatly at the nape of his neck, though it was awkward to do so when she was facing him.
Ronin nodded softly, sitting up and turning around, closing his eye as she started to work on his hair.
Hana smiled gently and combed her fingers through his hair as she gathered it into a horsetail. "I need a tie," she murmured, leaning in to kiss the back of his neck softly.
Ronin nodded slowly, glancing around to find just where he had thrown Hanryo. He took a deep sigh and leaned over softly to grip the sheath of the katana, pulling a small brown ribbon from it. "Here," he said, holding up the small tie.
She took the tie, fingers brushing his gently, and wound it around his hair to secure the tail. "There." Another loss to the back of his neck and her arms went around his middle. "Done."
"Thanks," Ronin answered with a soft breath, twisting in her arms to press a soft kiss on her lips.
"Hm." Hana kissed him back and pressed her forehead against his. "Of course."
She snuggled into his arms and gave a soft sigh. "I wish we could stay like this forever."
"Not yet," Ronin answered with a soft smile. "Just gotta get this over with. Then we'll settle down."
"I know." She smiled a bit and let her head rest against his shoulder. "Doesn't stop a girl from dreaming."
Ronin smiled softly, pressing a kiss on her forehead. "Soon, Hana. Soon," he assured.
"Hmm..." She snuggled a little closer. "If we don't move soon I'm going to fall asleep like this..."
"You can," Ronin replied with a soft smile. "I just have to train some people."
Hana pouted at him. "I can help." She yawned, then added, "And I'll take the excuse to stick with you."
Ronin smiled softly. "Alright," he answered, sitting up. "Then let's get dressed."
She gave a few grumbling complaints, more for the form of it than anything else, and reluctantly slipped out of bed to retrieve her clothes and dress.
Ronin couldn't help but chuckle at her grumbling, he started to gather his clothes, being dressed quite quickly.
Hana moved to slip out of the little house and back toward the village square, glancing over her shoulder for Ronin.
Ronin trailed behind her closely, stepping out into the village square aswell. He sighed softly, it was a long time since he had taught anyone anything. And besides that, these were adolescents already. Warriors like him, or Kumiko, or Kumiko's soldiers, had most likely been trained since they were children. And he couldn't catch up to years of training with just weeks. He had his work cut out.
Hana touched his shoulder gently. "You can do this," she murmured.
Ronin smiled softly. "Thanks," he murmured.
Ronin stepped forward, the small congregation of villages looked up at him. He sighed slowly. "Who of you have ever held a blade?" Some of the villagers raised their hands. Ronin nodded. "Did everyone bring a weapon of some kind?" A soft cheer and people raised their weapons, causing Ronin to chuckle. "Good. People with scythes, pikes, lances and such, step to the left. People with short weaponry, like clubs, katanas, knives, step to the right."
And so the group obeyed. Ronin nodded softly, seeing some of the people brandishing actual katanas and shortswords. It seemed some had managed to scavenge weaponry prior. At least that made it all a tad easier.
He started with the short weaponry, performing an overhead slash, telling the group to repeat after him. And so, they started. Next, he walked over to the group with pikes and polearms and the likes. He could make some kindbof unit with crude shields from this. He showed them how an imaginairy shield was held up, at the same time thrusting forward with their pikes.
As soon as they were also practicing, he started to patrol around them, correcting where needed.
Izuki appeared next to Hanako, glancing at the training before glancing at her with those cold, emotiinless eyes. "He's good. But he is not a magician." She started.
Hana watched the group with narrowed eyes, mind working as she sat with her legs crossed, tails twitching.
She gave the young woman a quick glance. "Maybe not. But he's got me."
"And you have the child," Izuki replied, folding her arms and kneeling down next to her, watching the group.
Hana stiffened. "How do you know about that?"
The girl glanced at her, then tapped her finger right underneath her eyesocket. "We, touched by.. What you call the Anomaly, have a variety of abilities." She sighed softly. "Ronin is able to perform things such as shadow step or make a shadow puppet he can control. I can only perform shadow step, but I also have a sight way better than his," she glanced back at him. "I can see one's essence. And, you carry two different shapes of essence."
The kitsune's ears flattened against her skull and she found herself sort of curving forward, arms wrapped around her middle. "Well...just don't share that information, alright?" she mumbled, glancing away.
Izuki shook her head. "Rest assured, Lady Hanako, I won't," she shook her head. It wasn't beneficial to anyone if this information had gotten out
She snorted. "No need to call me Lady. Just Hanako is fine." With a huff she got to her feet and stretched, then looked down at the girl.
"Know if anyone around here is sensitive to magic?"
"I insist, perhaps you rather hear master or mistress Hanako?" Izuki inqiired, oblivious to what the latter might entitle. "And, do you mean anyone here having an affinity towards it, or sensitive to the use of it? If it's the prior, myself and my brother, Izuru."
She decided to drop the argument about a title- she had a feeling she wasn't going to win it. "Anything. Any ability with or sensitivity to magic at all, I can probably train you to at least make it partially useful."
"I'll let Izuru know, Lady Hanako," was what Izuki replied. "He can control water."
"Alright. I'll...be here, I guess," Hana murmured, flicking her eyes out to watch the others in the square.
"Oh? I can get him right now, Lady Hanako," Izuki stated, before she suddenly poofed away in a black mist.
And several seconds later, she reappeared again, the boy Izru sitting besides her. And she dissappeared once more, leaving Izuru there with a shocked and bewildered expression.
Hana smiled in what she hoped was a reassuring way. "Hello. I'm not sure if we were ever properly introduced, my name's Hanako."
"Izuru," the boy replied, glancing at Hanako and relaxing slightly.
Her smile grew. "I remember." She sat and patted the ground beside her. "So. Your sister says you're sensitive to water magic?"
The boy scooted over a tad closer, nodding softly. "Yes," he murmured softly.
"Alright." She crossed her legs and turned to face him properly. "Show me what you can do, what you're comfortable with."
Izuru nodded softly, pressing his hands together, before pulling them apart, a droplet formed between his hands. "I can only form and barely control but a droplet.."
Hana smiled and moved to cup her hands around his. "That's alright. Every rainstorm starts with a drop, yes? Now, water is a special element, a healing element. You don't necessarily need to create and control just yet, you can simply connect with what is already there."
She took his hand and pressed his fingers against her pulse. "Our bodies are mostly water. Try to feel mine."
He blinked slowly. He never looked at it that way. But it made him realise, people like Ronin and Hanako worked hard for their abilities. Unlike his sister, who was exposed to dark arts. He nodded as she spoke, blushing slightly however. It wasn't every day a beautiful woman held your hands and offered to teach you music.
Yet he looked down at her wrist and nodded regardless, starting to focus on trying to feel the pulse through her blood.
She felt the barest brush of his magic against her own and nodded encouragingly, ears flicking back and forth. "There you go. Now, see if you can touch me. Not physically, touch my magic. It'll be a bit harder, 'cause I'm fire, but you should be able to."
"Touch.. Your magic?" Izuru inquired with a soft frown. "I.. Don't know what you mean."
"Just close your eyes and clear your mind. Reach out to me mentally. You'll know it when you feel it," Hana urged quietly.
Izuru nodded slowly, closing his eyes and resting his hands on his knees as he started to focus. He tried his best to reach out to her and actually managed to do so. Albeit that his power was weak and brittle.
"There, see? Feel that." She smiled and let her magic brush against his, much stronger and brighter, trying to coax his power out a bit more.
Ronin turned his head towards the mair, walking over to sit down next to Hanako, keeping an eye on the villagers who were repeating the same excercice. This wasn't nescessarily technique, it was more for discipline and to give them a proper physique. After all, they were just swinging a sword in the same way repeatedly, or stabbing in the same way, yet in unison. Something that made Ronin happy to see happening. They would be fighting side by side, after all.
He glanced at Hanako, giving her a soft smile, before looking at Izuru, yet keeping silent. They were obviously busy.
Several droplets of water started to form around Izuru as he focussed.
Hana leaned into Ronin automatically as he sat beside her, though she kept her eyes on the boy.
Trusting he was focused enough that he wouldn't hear her, she whispered, "The girl knows. About me- about the baby. She says she'll keep the information to herself."
And Ronin kept his eyes on the troops who were still excercising, putting an arm around Hanako's shoulder. "I'm not surprised," he murmured softly. "She's very resourceful."
"Mmph." She twisted her head to kiss his shoulder and leaned into him a little more. "Still, makes me nervous. She said she could...sense it. That the people Kumiko has...changed or whatever have these extra abilities. What if one of them could- could hurt the baby?"
"Ronin glanced at her, sighing softly. "The soldiers that came yesterday didn't have any kind of abilities. I think it is purely for his assassins and trusted men," he replied. "Still, I understand your concern."
He pressed a soft kiss on her forehead. "But I won't allow anyone to do that."
Hana sighed softly and hid her face against his shoulder. "I know," she muttered. "I know, I do. I just..."
She was already worried and she wasn't even showing yet. The baby wasn't even a baby yet, just the possibility, and she was already turning into an overprotective mother.
Ronin smiled softly. "It's alright," he murmured, hugging her closer with one arm, slicking some of his hair back with the orher and glancing back at his troops, happily concluding they were still doing the same excercice. And even better, doing it with passion. These men, and the occasional woman that felt called to physically defend, were clearly prepared to give their lives for their home.
"Hmm." She glanced at those practicing, then at her pupil. "Take a breath," she advised the boy.
The boy nodded slowly, sucking in a deep breath, before exhaling softly. "Aquamage?" Ronin inquired as he glanced at Hanako.
"The beginnings of one." Hana smiled and put her hand over the boy's. "Why don't you take a break, kid? Good work so far."
Ronin smirked softly and nodded.
Izuru glanced up, the droplets of moisture crashing down as his focus was broken. He nodded solemnly and looked around, pushing himself up to give the two some privacy, yet, only after he bowed his head and said "thank you for the lesson, Lady Hanako."
She was starting to think it was pointless to try, but she said, "Please, just Hanako, or Hana," as she waved the boy off.
The boy didn't answer, only turned to return the wave, before completely leaving.
Ronin chuckled softly. "Disliking the title?"
Brow furrowed, Hana huffed and grumbled petulantly, "I'm not a lady. I'm not even a- a miss. I'm just me. A fox, a trickster."
Ronin chuckled softly. "You're more than that," he said as he pulled her a tad closer again. "You're my lover, Lady Torrence. A powerful pyromancer that will burn Kumiko to a crisp."
She made a small, noncommittal grunting sound and snuggled into his side. "Bet your ass I will," she muttered. "But see, I still don't think that makes me a lady."
"We're village elders now," Ronin snorted. "People are taking it well. And they are looking up to us."
She huffed out a breath. "Not sure I'm ready to be looked up to. Guess it'll be good practice though..."
"Not like either os us have a choice now," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle.
Hana just gave another noncommittal grunt and kept quiet.
Ronin pulled her in closer and saueezed his arm around her shoulder, pressing a soft kiss on her forehead. He then got to his feet and took several steps forward, a sharp whistle resounding. "Take a break!" He called out, before turning back to Hanako. Ronin sat down next to her and sighed softly.
"What now?" Hana murmured as she leaned into his side.
"I haven't trained an army before," he answered with a chuckle. "Tutoring one student was difficult enough."
"We need to figure out a way to beat those shadow soldiers," she said softly. "Normal men, mortals we can handle. If we can neutralize the others, we've won half the battle."
Ronin nodded with a soft sigh. "That is true. But the only way to beat those is magic.. Or making our own. And I'd hate the latter."
"Yeah. But magic..." Her lips twitched up on one side. "Magic I can do."
"I know, I'd rather have you safe with the child," he snorted softly. "But there's only three of us who can handle what is probably twenty of them. Our army would be devastated. And I'm not sure just how strong they are."
"Daisuke." She turned her head to kiss his shoulder. "I know you want to protect me, but you have to look at this logically. I'm not mortal, not the way the rest of you are. If you send me in first to deal with the shadow soldiers, I can clear a path."
"No, but you do feel pain," he replied with a soft sigh, closing his eyes. "You can be captured, tortured," he let out a soft breath. "We can't rely on one person either. They can easily split up."
"I can handle torture." She furrowed her brow at him. "It's our best plan and you know it, Daisuke. It's not great, but it's the best we can do."
"Mayhaps," Ronin answered as he rubbed his temples. "But, if you are captured, it takes a major chunk out of our force. They will no doubt come for Izuki and me." He grit his teeth. "And you know what happens if I die," a soft sigh left him.
And a small voice appeared from behind them, belonging to the young assassin, Izuki. "We should create our own shadow soldiers," she glanced at Ronin. "His direct exposure to the Kurohitsugi allows him to.. Infect others."
"No." Hana shook her head immediately. "No, we can't do that to innocent people."
Ronin nodded. "Indeed," he murmured, sighing softly. "I think the three of us know just how difficult life like this is."
Izuru sighed slowly. "Yes. But these people want to protect their homes with their lives. Why not let them? There will be less casualities. Less people hurt."
"No." Another shake of her head. "If that's how we win, we're no better than him. We'll find another way."
Ronin nodded with a slow sigh. "We can't allow more.. It might be strong. But we can't force it on people."
Hana nodded as she leaned into his side for a moment in a show of support.
Then she stood, almost abruptly, and murmured, "We should eat something. You'll be no use to anybody fainting from exhaustion."
Izuki only momentarily nodded and dissappeared again. Ronin glanced at Hanako, nodding, before getting to his feet, raising his hand. "Training's over for today!" He called out, people nodded and slowly left the field.
"I..." Hana bit her lip, then murmured, "I need to take a walk or something, I'll be back soon." She leaned in to kiss his cheek then started to walk away.
Ronin nodded, turning his head to make the kiss on his cheek a small peck. "I'll see you in the house," he answered, turning around to leave for the house.
She nodded, shifting into her fox form as she padded around the edges of the village and into the wilder areas.
She was gone for a while, panting lightly by the time she finally returned to the house and slipped inside, curling up by the doorway and flicking her tails around to cover her muzzle.
Ronin frowned softly as he lowered the flute he had found earlier on the table, standing up. One of the things of the bond between them was the presence they shared. One another could feel when they were close or distant.
He stood up and walked to the door, opening it gently. "Hanako?" He inquired, glancing down on her in her fox form.
The kitsune raised her head and huffed at him, crimson eyes softening slightly. She stood and padded past him into house, brushing against him as she did.
Ronin followed her in, closing the door behind her. "A-are you alright, Hana?" He inquired as he trailed behind her, frowning softly. Worry apparent in his voice.
She nodded at him over her shoulder, giving a soft, reassuring huff, but she kept her fox form, curling up in front of the fire.
Ronin nodded, frowning softly. He followed her and sat down next to her, absently patting her head. "Thinking?" He inquired, folding his legs.
Another nod and she dropped her head into his lap, curling into his side with a little shiver of fur that traveled down and made her tails flick back and forth.
Ronin scratched behind her ear and nodded softly. "Alright," he answered, before silencing and just staring at the flakkering fire.
Hana sighed and nuzzled into him, ears pressing back against her skull as she let her eyes close.
[and we're back]
Ronin let out a soft breath as he hugged Hanako tightly. "We should eat and get some sleep," he stated after a short while.
The kitsune sort of shimmered at the edges and melted into her half-way form. "I'm not hungry," she murmured.
Ronin frowned slowly, pressing a soft kiss on her forehead. "Talk to me, love," he sighed softly as he pulled her up slightly. "What's on your mind?"
Hana shifted as he tugged her up so she was settled more comfortably on his lap, head tucked against his shoulder.
"I don't-" She bit her lip. "I'm...not sure we can win this. Not with what we have now..."
Ronin nodded slowly. "I'm not raising an army to fight Kumiko's army," he pressed a kiss on her head. "I'm raising an army to fortify the village. Kumiko is smart enough not to attack this village with all of his forces, since he will lose a lot and other villages will also rebel, then." He smiled softly. "While yourself, me, Izuki and other able warriors will go to annoy an pester him with small strikes to disrupt him."
He sighed slowly. "He will become angry and call out for a duel infront of all of his troops. And I will fight him and beat him," he let out a deep breath. "And that'll be the end of it."
"But what if he doesn't?" She wrapped her arms around his neck. "What if he just decides to wipe this place off the face of the earth?"
"Then we either manage to escape or die, knowing that Kumiko will be overthrown," he answered. "Besides, if he'd want to do that, he'd have done so already," he answered with a soft sigh. "Before we actually managed to reinforce."
Hana sighed and hugged him a little tighter. "Take me to bed?" she murmured suddenly. "I don't- I can't think about this anymore."
Ronin nodded and pressed a soft kiss on her cheek, shifting slightly so he was on his knees. He scooped Hanako off of the ground and held her in his arms. His eye met hers and he smiled softly, before heading to the bedroom. He placed her down on the bed. "I'm going to get something to eat. I'll be with you in five minutes," he murmured as he pecked her cheek softly, before standing up again.
He stepped back from the bed and walked out again, scouring their supplies for food.
And indeed, roughly five minutes later, he pushed open the door of the bedroom again and walked in.
She curled up on the bed, murmuring an affirmative as he left but shivering slightly with the absence of his warmth.
She sat up quickly when he returned, holding her arms out to him in a manner that was almost childlike.
Ronin noticed the gesture and pulled the sheath from his hip, before pulling off the heaviest pieces of his armour. He walked over to her when done and leaned forward, hugging her closely and laying down on the bed.
Suddenly anything childlike about the kitsune was gone. She clung to him, rolling them over so she was perched over him and claiming his lips in a fiery kiss.
Her hips moved almost without her consent, rubbing against him as she growled softly against his mouth, her body making demands her voice couldn't seem to get out.
Ronin's eye widened in surprise as she practically assaulted him. He wanted to say something, but his voice was muffled due to the kiss.
Having recovered from the shock, he closed his eyes again and started to press back against her lips. One hand smoothing down her back to softly squeeze the basevof her taiks, groaning softly as she gyrated against his crotch, the rubbing of rhz fabric causing a bulge.
Hana gasped and shivered delightedly, her tails starting to flick wildly back and forth. She rocked her hips into his harder, mewling softly as heat started to pool low in her belly.
Her lips moved to his neck and she nipped lightly. "Harder," she groaned against his skin.
Ronin let out a soft groan, closing his eyes as he started to apply more pressure to her tails, still grunting softly as she was rubbing their crotches together, the bulge in his pants only growing under the attention. He swallowed softly as his free hand travelled down to slip inside her trousers, fingers caressing over her slith.
She moaned and gasped softly, rocking her hips demandingly into his hand even as her own fingers traveled to the hem of his pants.
She hiked the hem of her kimono up with her free hand and started to palm him gently, lips parted slightly as she panted.
Ronin extended two fingers to slip past her folds, starting to push them in and pull them out. The half orc let out a soft grunt as he felt Hanako started to rub his member.
He kept squeezing her tails and fingering her slith, starting to pant softly aswell.
Hana tossed her head back, eyes half closed as she bucked her hips forward. "More," she breathed. "Gods, more. Please, Daisuke."
She gripped his breeches to pull them down over his hips, nails scratching his skin inadvertently in her haste.
And, she recieved as she asked, Ronin sped up the rate at which he was sliding his fingers in and out of Hanako, the intervals between the squeezes on the base of her tails also lessened in time. He felt his legs being scratched when his underwear was pulled down, member springing out in it's fully erect state, eliciting a deep groan from Ronin.
She wasted no time, grabbing his wrist to pull his hand away from her core so she could rock forward and impale herself along his length sharply.
A sharp cry slipped out of her lips and she arched her back, pressing her hips into his as much as she could.
Ronin took a deep breath as Hanako crashed her hips into his, before groaning deeply, his eye fluttering closed. "Holy-" he managed to breathe out as he felt the Kitsune's warm insides clenching around his member.
Something fierce and primal seemed to have taken over Hanako and she slammed her hips into his again, and again, refusing to let up on her onslaught. Her ears pressed back against her skull and she braced her hands against his chest, nails that were more like claws digging in.
"Harder," she gasped again, tails whipping through the air behind her. "Gods, Daisuke, please harder."
Ronin didn't make notion to the pain of her nails, either because he didn't care, or he didn't feel due to the sheer heat he felt drawing to his underbelly. He grunted and grit his teeth in pleasure, rolling his hips against hers in this fierce love-making.
Hana seemed determined to claim him like it was the last chance she'd get, bruises forming on her hips though she didn't give a damn.
Her hands clutched at his chest, nails scratching over his nipples, and she suddenly leaned back to brace her palms on his thighs and buck against him at a new, sharper angle. Her breath came in desperate pants and her eyes were clenched shut as tension coiled in her belly.
Ronin closed his eyes and let out a elongated groan as Hanako leaned back and changed her position, he still thrust up against her, panting heavily as his abdomen tensed. "Hana-," he bit out as his cock twitched inside of her. "F-fuck.. Don't stop," he breathed heavily. "I'm.. Close."
With a soft gasp Hana suddenly clenched around him, a low groan pulled from her chest. But she didn't stop, riding him through her climax as she gripped his legs tighter.
Ronin grunted deeply as he felt Hanako's walls clenching down on his member, he couldn't hold back any longer and sprayed his orgasm inside of her, eyes fluttering and muscles tensing as he did. "H-Hana," he managed to breahte loudly again.
She growled as she felt his release and tossed her head back, sharp canines glinting through parted lips.
Then her eyes snapped open and she looked down at him, panting, "We're not...done yet."
She rolled them over, clasping her legs around his waist and rolling her hips up underneath his as she attacked his neck with nips, licks, and kisses.
Ronin was rolled over, breathing heavily, before pausing, putting a hand on her shoulder, closing his eyes and taking a deep sigh. "Hana-" he murmured, "I'm not.. Complaining.. But you-" he grunted softly. "You're riled up."
"Yeah." She slid her hands down to grip his ass and pull him tight against her. "I am. You should fix that."
Ronin frowned softly, before leaning down to press a soft, tender and caring kiss on her lips, softly starting to roll his hips against hers, sliding his cock in and out softly and gently. "Just.. A breather," he replied, before leaning down to press a soft kiss on the column of her throat.
Hana nodded, letting her head lull to the side to offer better access to her neck. "Just love me, Daisuke," she whispered as she closed her eyes.
"Don't worry," he whispered softly. "I do," he sped up his pace slightly. "Each.. And every.. Second."
A shuddering sigh left her and she rocked her hips up into his with the rhythm he set, arms around his neck and lips peppering kisses over her face every chance she got.
Ronin grunted softly as he gripped Hanako's ass with one hand, the other giving ministrations to the base of her tails.
Whimpering and mewling in delight, Hana bucked up against him and dragged her nails down his back, scoring marks unintentionally.
Ronin let out a soft grunt, closing his eyes as he kept on the same rythmic pounding of Hanako, the hand on her ass slipped away, starting to travel down her abdomen instead and occasionally rub her clit.
Hana gasped, then whispered, "Yes, yes, yes," as she writhed beneath him. "Oh gods, love, more, give me more..."
Her back arched and she bit down on the curve of his neck to muffle a cry.
Ronin grunted softly and whinced as she chomped down on his neck. He was able to handle the scratches and the nails, but her sharp teeth portruded his flesh easily.
However, he didn't relent his movements in the slightest, the gyrating of his hips, along with the rubbing of her clit sped up ever so slightly, Crimson eye falling closed.
Another gasp, then she threw back her head screamed her release, renewing rhe frantic bucking of her hips as she shudderingly rode through the shocks of pleasure.
And Ronin's movements hitched every so slightly as she cried out her orgasm, once more clenching down on his member. His movements hitched for a second time, accompanied by the twitching and throbbingbof his cock, indicating the release that followed only seconds after.
And once again, he didn't relent in his movements, riding himself and her through the orgasm.
Hana purred delightedly as he kept moving, letting him take control with a breathy, "J-just like that. Don't stop, love, please don't stop..."
That was the plan. He couldn't even fathom stopping now. He wouldn't stop, plain and simple. Perish the thought.
Ronin leaned forward, softly kissing her neck, blood trickling from his own. "I'm going to fill you up," he murmured soflty, before proceeding to kiss the column of her throat, still keeping the same tempo, the same ministratiins to both the base of her tails and her clitoris.
"Yes." She arched her back, then curved her neck to kiss the mark she'd left on his, licking the blood away apologetically. "Gods, I want you to fuck me until I can't think anymore," she begged quietly, legs locked around his waist.
Ronin groaned between his pants. "Will.. Do.." He managed to bite out.
With the hand right abover her ass, by the base of her tails, he pulled her up as his abdomen tensed to pull himself up aswell, having her straddle his lap, before he started to gyrate underneath her at the same pace, now penetrating her from a sharper angle, making sure to rub her upper walls when he fucked her.
He also proceeded to stimulate the base of her tails and her clitoris, leaning down to kiss and suckle on one of her breasts.
"Ah-ahh!" She et her head fall back and rolled her hips against his feverishly. "Daisuke," she panted as her fingers dug into his shoulders for an anchor. "Gods, Daisuke, Daisuke."
Ronin grunted deeply, still having the peak of one of her breasts inside her mouth. He kept forcing his cock in and out of Hanako without abandon, slowly starting to build up a bigger pace.
Her nails scratched at his scalp as she dug her fingers into his hair and whimpered, clutching him to her chest. Two of her tails wrapped around to brush at the small of his back.
"I love you," she breathed as she rained kisses over every inch of him she could reach.
Ronin once again only grunted in response, before drawing his head back whilst still softly suckling one of her mounds. "Hana," he murmured as ghe breast slipped from his mouth. "I- I love you," he bit out, turning his attention to her other breast, teeth grasing along her nipple.
She groaned appreciatively and arched her spine to press closer against him. Her pace jarred slightly as she suddenly felt herself toeing the edge.
"Fuck, oh fuck," she hissed, clamping down around him and mewling quietly. "L-love you. I love you..."
Ronin buried his head in the cleft of her breasts, nursing and kissing it softly as he groaned and panted deeply. Her suddenly tightening up around his cock, as if she desperately needed every last drop of his seed, caused Ronin to shoot his release inside once more.
His movements now jarred and hitched more, yet he tried his best to keep up the pace, even through their synchronised orgasms.
Hana gave a shuddering sigh and went sort of limp in his arms, her upper body falling back until his embrace stopped her, though her hips continued to buck weakly against his as a stream of pleas and murmured praise burbled from her lips.
And Ronin still kept going, panting heavily and squinching his eyes closed. "Hana-" he grunted out deeply as he still kept pounding Hanako.
Back bowed in a long arch, lips parted as she drew in ragged breaths, Hana stretched her arms out over her head to grip the sheets, claws tearing the fabric. She whimpered and gasped softly, legs tightening spasmodically around his waist.
Ronin laid her back on the bed again, leaning over her to proceed fucking her at the same, rythmic pace, teeth grit as his eyes slid shut as he panted heavily.
"Daisuke..." She slid her fingers into his hair and arced up against him. "O-oh, just- just a little more, please..."
Ronin needn't more encouragement than that and kept going the way he did, pounding against her while squeezing the base of her tails, his hand returning to brush against her clit again.
Hana suddenly tensed, then her eyes slammed shut and she wailed quietly as shudders pulsed through her frame and she clutched at his hair, tugging unconsciously.
Ronin grunted deeply, hissing between his teeth, his movements jarring as he also came due to Hanako suddenly clenching down on him. And Ronin was finally done, panting heavily as he swallowed slowly. "There," he murmured slowly, pressing a soft kiss on her lips. "How was that?" he breathed softly.
She nodded quickly, parting her lips against his as she struggled to get her breath back.
Silently, she wrapped her arms around his shoulders and tucked her face against his chest, shaking lightly. She was crying.
[Was he that bad? o.o]
Ronin panted softly, only after a short while actually hearing her sobs and realising she was crying. He looked down at her head and sushed her softly. "Hana," he murmured softly, pressing a kiss on her head. "Talk to me, Hana.."
[Looool, no. Hana is having issues]
She hiccuped a few breaths and shook her head. "I'm s-sorry," she murmured, kissing his cheek, then his lips. "I love you, Daisuke. I'm sorry..."
[I know, I know ^^ was just joking.]
Ronin pressed another soft kiss on her head, sushing her softly. "I love you too, Hana," he murmured softly. "But talk to me.. What's wrong? Please."
"I'm scared," Hana sobbed into his chest. "I'm so scared, Daisuke. When I thought I lost you, I-"
She swallowed thickly and clung tighter. "I can't feel that again, I cant't. When I thought you were gone, I wanted to die. I wanted to be with you."
She shook her head. "But I can't feel like that, not if- not when I'm going to be a mother. And I'm scared."
Ronin sushed her softly. He couldn't say much to make her feel better. "It's gonna be alright, love," he answered. "I promise, no more mistakes. I love you. I promise I won't die, for your sake."
She was still crying, but she nodded slowly. "I love you." Her lips sought his. "I love you so much."
"I love you to bits," Ronin murmured as his lips brushed hers. "Words can't explain, Hana," he murmured softly.
Taking shuddering breaths, Hana slipped her arms down around his waist and tucked her head against his shoulder. "Just...hold me for a while?"
"I.. Might not let you go," Ronin answered with a soft breath as he pulled her in closer, eyes sliding shut.
"Good." She cuddled into his warmth and let her eyes drift closed with a sigh.
Ronin hugged her closely, smiling sadly. He closed his eyes aswell and took a deep breath, trying to fall asleep.
Hana stroked her hands up and down his back, attempting to soothe him into sleep as she cuddled closer.
Ronin pressed another soft kiss on her forehead, before slipping off into conciousness.
She waited until she was sure he was asleep, then leaned up to kiss his cheek as she disentangled herself and slipped out of bed.
Hana didn't have the best penmanship, but by the time Ronin woke a note would be in her place, scrawled hastily onto what looked like a page that had been torn out of a book:
We can't do this alone. Don't look for me, you don't have time.
I love you. I'm sorry.
[This will.. Go worse than she hopes.]
Ronin woke up with a soft snort, feeling around for Hanako. His eye cracked open as he felt and heard a paper crumble, pulling it up and frowning, only to read it.
His eye widened as he jumped up, grabbing his blade, knocking one of the pots on the nightstands off.
He slammed open the door to look around in the small hall, before running outside, looking around with a bewildered look, completely naked.
She was gone.
Don't look for me.
He grit his teeth as he felt tears welling up in his eye. The arcane bond only affirmed that she was long gone.
Struck by grief, Ronin returned back inside, starting to get dressed, putting on his armour and strapping the katana and wakizashi to his side, he walked out again, Izuki suddenly appearing next to him. "What's happening?"
But the half orc didn't answer, instead, he walked to the village's stables and slapped a large coat around his shoulders that hid the features of his armour, only the tip of the sheath stuck behind him. He pulled up the straw hat and pulled himself in the saddle, before riding out of the village, teeth grit.
They couldn't do this alone. He'd show her that they could.
[Yeeeeeah, she doesn't always think things through. Impulsive nature]
Hana kept her fully animal form as she traveled, paws barely skimming the ground and leaving the occasional burning ember in her wake in her agitation.
She hated this. The further apart they got, the more she hated it- it felt like the bond between them was an elastic tie, stretched to its limits and threatening to snap back.
But she had to do this. They needed help, and she didn't know where else to look.
Ronin's trek by horseback would take two days and would go rather uneventful, bar the crashing rain that started during the morning of day two.
And the rain ensued for the entire day, leaving Ronin drenched as he reached Kumiko's camp. He looked like a weary traveler, hidden underneath a straw hat and clad in a dark green cloak. He sighed softly.
Here goes nothing.
Gods she hated the rain.
Normally it didn't bother her so much, but she was considerably on edge. Time, she needed more time.
And more and more she was hating being away from the village. What if Ronin tried to come after her? What if he did something more stupid?
And what he was doing was indeed something very stupid, the gate opened and the horse stepped inside.
Ronin pulled himself from the saddle and tugged the cloak off, pulling out the katana and slicing up the guard near the gate.
Loud shouts resounded and soon Ronin was surrounded by soldiers. All or nothing now.
Two down, one to go.
Hana suddenly froze, head snapping up and tails whipping as the hair went up along her spine. Something felt...wrong.
Ronin held the blade brandished, gritting his teeth and glancing around, surrounded by the enemy soldiers.
He grit his teeth, another two soldiers fell to his blade. "Kumiko!" Ronin called out loudly, before another soldier charged for him.
Something set her even more on edge than she'd been and Hana growled as she continued running. Just this last place to check, then she could return to the village.
Ronin was still fighting Kumiko's lackeys. He was tiring out and getting overwhelmed, their numbers far outstretched his and for every character he cut down, another two took his place. He just had to hold on a little while longer. Kumiko soon would reveal himself.
"Move!" A loud and bellowing voice resounded, promting all the soldiers that attacked Ronin to back up and withdraw. Ronin turned to the voice, it sounded too familiar. His eyes widened as he saw the man he had called father. "You've proven yourself, Daisuke. It's over. Submit." The shock for Ronin was unimaginable. The katana slipped from his hands and Ronin dropped to his knees.
He blinked and the green-skinned man was gone. A sharp and burning sensation shot through his back before he dropped to the ground, looking up to a blonde, blue eyed woman who wore a soft smirk, flicking the poisoned dagger in her hand. "So gullible," she chuckled slowly. "Kumiko will break you," she stated as Ronin slowly passed out.
Hana suddenly stumbled, yelping. Something felt wrong, she was dizzy and suddenly weak.
But she kept pressing on, now accompanied by a creature like her, black furred and bearing six tails to her three. He whined at her when her paws stuttered but she shook her head.
It would take them days to get back to the village. They had to keep moving.
It was a dagger coated in some kind of poison that had put him asleep, his body was transported and the next morning, he woke up in an ill lit room. He blinked slowly and looked around trying to familiarize himself with his surroundings. But it was too dark.
Before he heard a whip crack and felt a burning pain smacking against his chest, letting out a cry of pain. And little did he know, this was merely the beginning.
The two kitsunes reached the village in fairly good time, both melting into human form. Hana's companion was taller than her, with black hair and golden eyes.
He kept silent as she grabbed the first person she saw. "Hey, get this guy a place to sleep, will you? And do you know where Daisu- Ronin is? I should find him, tell him I'm back."
Izuki appeared between the two, in full combat armour, several blades and knives strapped to her small body. "Master is gone," she answered with a soft sigh. "He set off several days ago, in the morning. He seemed incredibly agitated," she explained, glancing up at Hanako. "Who is your companion, Lady Hanako?"
Her hackles raised. "Gone? Where did he go?" Oh gods, he had done something stupid.
Seeing the female was evidently not going to introduce him, her companion murmured, "I am called Fang. Kiba, if you prefer. My young cousin told me you needed aid."
"He.. Didn't tell," Izuki started, frowning slightly. "But I'm sure he went right to Kumiko's."
The young girl looked at 'Kiba', nodding slowly.
Hana blanched. "Wh-what? Why-? Oh gods."
She whirled to Fang. "Can you protect the village? I- I have to go after him!"
"Hanako." He took her shoulders. "You must calm yourself, you are-"
"Don't you fucking tell me to calm myself!" she shrieked, not caring how much attention she drew. "Now let me go so I can save my fool mate or I swear to gods I will make you!"
Izuki sighed slowly. "That was my plan, Master Hanako," she gestured at herself, before turning around. "If you wish to join me, you may."
Dang let her go with a slow nod. "Izuki you need to stay here," Hana said quickly. "Teach him the ropes. There will be more of my mind coming to help defend the village."
She would do better on her own, sneaking in and out.
"Master Hanako, with all due respect," she started, fully turning to the female kitsune. "I am no tutor. Nor do I think it is wise to put the other village elder in danger."
She shook her head. "I'm not the elder. I'm going to get the elder back. And you don't need to be a tutor, you just need to show Fang and the others where the best places to defend the village are."
Izuki opened her mouth to argue, but immediateky shut her mouth and clenched her jaw together. "Ofcourse Lady Hanako," she answered, before turning to Kiba. "If you'd follow me," she said, before poofing away, to appear several meters away from them.
And Hana was gone. Now that she knew what she was looking for, she could follow Ronin's scent to Kumiko's fortress.
Please please please don't let me be too late.
But as fast as she could run. She was already far too late. Ronin wasn't dead, else she would be aswell, yet the bond that connect them, for some reason seemed frail. Almost distorted.
As she reached the fortress, it was silent, eerie. Yet undisturbed. If the bond didn't tell her qhe was very close now, it would seem like nothing had happened.
Hana was in fox form as she crept into the far too quiet fortress. She was enough a creature of stealth that she could use that shadows to her advantage, but she wasn't sure how long that would last.
Though weak, the bond was like a thread she could follow and she padded after it.
She'd reach him easily, standing quite literally next to him from the feel of it.
"Stop right there," a familiar voice called out, it was none other than Ronin's. The male stepped out of the shadows, he looked different. He felt different. Both his eyes were open, both had those deep, crimson color.
He stepped forwards to Hanako, putting his hand on the hilt of the katana.
She shivered into her halfling form, slumping slightly in relieve, too glad to see him to realize something was very wrong.
"Daisuke." She moved toward him, expression anxious.
Ronin stepped forward as he clicked the blade from his sheath, before completely drawing out the katana, brining the tip up to Hanako's throat. "Don't move."
She froze. "D-Daisuke? What- what's going on?"
Ronin didn't reply. His eyes were cold, distant. It seemed that the usual bright spark was gone. Sveral other soldiers surrounded the two and went to tie Hanako's hands together.
It was like she couldn't move, stunned into silence except for a quietly whispered, "Daisuke..."
She just stared at him as they bound her wrists, eyes wide and confused.
"Throw her in the dungeons," he said. "Tomorrow, we move on the village. Those farmers do not know how to put up a fight. And the fox is captured. There's barely any threat left." He nodded at the man and lowered his blade again, sheathing it and turning around, while the soldiers pulled her along, into the fortress.
That was when Hana started to fight. She snapped and snarled at the men around her, tails lashing and eyes snapping fire.
"What is this?" she hissed. "What did you do to him? Daisuke! Daisuke!"
The men tried their best to control her, but Hanako had proven to possess superior strength. Ronin raised his hand and closed his fist, to choke her magic off with the bond.
"Do not say that disgusting name. Daisuke is dead," he snarled in response.
Hana actually choked as she felt her magic bottled up, locked away. Legs shaking, she stared at him with wide eyes.
"You promised," she whispered, heartbroken. "You promised, Daisuke. Please..."
"I do not recall any promises with a fiend like you," Ronin answered coldly. "Throw her in the cells, Lord Kumiko shall decide her fate." He snorted as he turned around, walking off.
She wailed softly as he turned his back. Then the soldiers started tugging her away and she snarled, channeling grief and confusion into rage.
Her magic was blocked, but she still had claws and fangs. She was determined to use them, snapping and hissing at anything in reach.
Ronin glanced over his shoulder at her struggling, seeing the soldiers having quite a difficult time to get her to the cells. The warrior let out a soft sigh and turned around, dashing forward, edging his hilt out to smack it against her chest, to knock her out cold. As he did however, he whispered 'sorry, I love you,' under his breath.
Hana's eyes widened. Had he just- had she imagined that?
Her vision went dark and she slumped, unconscious.
As Hanako slumped forward against him, Ronin made no point of keeping her up but with the end of his hilt. "Take her away," he barked at the soldiers, who approached again and dragged her to the dungeons.
She didn't know how much later it was when she finally opened her eyes, but she was bound and chained the the wall of a cell.
Hana coughed and tried to sit up, then fell back with a groan. Her head was pounding, vision fuzzy.
She was all alone, there was no one present.
And she sat there for days, no one coming to visit or feed her. It was as if they wanted her to suffer that way, rather than actually torture her.
But, after those several days, even with the dungeons being underground, loud commotion was heard, along with the clattering of weapons. Kumiko's soldiers were mobilising.
And several minutes later, a figure rose from the shadows, Izuki, who rushed to undo her chains and set her free.
Hana was near delirious by the time Izuki reached her, weak and shaky. She had just enough presence of mind to gasp out, "What- what's happening?"
The girl pulled her closer and sushed her softly. "We're breaking Kumiko's line.. They didn't expect Ronin still being on our side," she answered. "Nor did we, for that matter."
With a soft shimmer of shadows, they were transported to the courtyard. Izuki still remained on her knees, holding Hanako close to her in protection. The courtyard seemed to be cleared, apart from spots of bloods and a corpse here and there, both sides had ceased fighting, Ronin standing in the middle, hand resting on his katana. He was wearing the same straw hat he left with and waited for his foe.
None other than Kumiko, who descended from the steps of the main hall, loudly inquiring what all this ruckus was. "Kumiko!" Ronin called out his name, the warlord frowned slowly and spat on the floor. "A disgusting ronin approaches me, what do you want?" He called out, ignoring the battlefield around him.
"A duel," Ronin answered with a soft snort, causing Kumiko to laugh. "A duel. And with what honour?!" The half orc grinned softly. "Scared?" He inquired as he stepped back, causing the warlord to huff and step down the stairs. "Fine. I have time to play around," sounded the reply. A long scraping resounded as Kumiko pulled a large katana, longer than Ronin's forearm from the enormous sheath on his back.
Ronin only tsk'd. A nodachi. The man had more reach, but was way slower.
"Fine, ronin. I shall take your duel. Your men's morale shall be broken by your death. Now come!" Ronin didn't wast any time and clicked the blade from it's sheath and stepped charged forward.
And thus, the duel started. Both were extremely skilled fighter, however, the end would soon be reached. Both men were tired after the fighting and both made another move. They both charged forward. "'I'll shut those eyes of yours again!" Kumiko called out as he made a downards slice for Ronin's head, who stepped forward to thrust the blade through Kumiko's chest.
The nodachi scraped past his eye and sliced through his cheekbone as blood splattered from the wound. Yet it was Kumiko who had lost, the katana pressed in his chest to the hilt. "I win," Ronin panted, his wounded eye shut and blood trickling down, the nodachi dislodging from his face and clattering to the ground.
Dizzy and still feeling not quite right in the head, Hana could do little more than cling to Izuki as the girl brought them out into the courtyard. She did her best to focus, but it was so hard, she was so tired...
Fires flickered around the dying battle, points of light that marked where the kitsune she had recruited to their cause fought. But she wasn't looking for that, she was looking for-
"Daisuke..."
Her heart jumped up into her throat at the duel began and she clenched her fists, claws digging into her palms. A cry ripped out of her when she saw the flash of blood, but then it was over, so quickly she wasn't quite sure what had just happened.
Her knees shook, threatening to give out, and she whimpered quietly as she sank toward the ground.
Ronin grit his teeth at the burning pain in his cheek, before turning around to see Hanako slumping down. He rushed over and slid on his knees towards her, pulling her up again. "Hana," he called out softly, tears gathering in his still good eye, blood streaming down his face. "I'm sorry.. I.. I'm so sorry," he looked up. "We need a healer!" He called out immediately, before back at her.
"I'm so sorry," he whimpered. "We'll get you patched up," he murmured as Izuki pulled a flask of water from her belt, handing it to Ronin, before dissappearing to go and scavenge food. "Here, drink," Ronin muttered weakly as he pressed the flask against her nether lip, starting to tilt it ever so slowly.
"I-" Hana coughed and tried to sit up a bit in his arms. "I'm...alright," she murmured, though it was plainly a lie. "Just...tired."
And starving. And dehydrated. Her hand was pressing against her belly unconsciously- despite how early along she was, the lack of nutrition certainly hadn't been good for her or the baby.
She gulped down a few mouthfuls of the water gratefully and leaned into him. "I'm sorry," she whispered, head lolling onto his shoulder as her eyes fluttered closed. "I- I shouldn't have left. But I was coming back. I promise, I was coming back..."
"We'll talk of this later," he answered. "I love you.. I love you regardless. Just keep looking in my eye," he murmured, a tear rolling down his cheek. "Just.. Keep looking at me," he whispered, releasing the flask from her mouth.
At that, Izuki appeared again, hauling quite the amount of food. No doubt had she stolen it from Kumiko's quarters, but it didn't matter now. Ronin got a handfull of grapes. "Just eat.. Nothing else," he answered as he put one in her mouth, moving her jaw if she needed assistance to chew.
She gave a sort of protesting groan, batting at him weakly, and only managed to get down a few mouthfuls before her body jerked and she leaned away to be sick, a raw cough rising up in her throat.
"Just...just water, for a bit," she panted. "I can't...keep anything else down right now. Damn kid..."
Ronin held her close even if she did throw up, uncaring for the puke that might inevitably get on his hands and clothes. He only nodded. "Sorry," he murmured as he brought up the flask to her lips again.
"Stop- stop apologizing." She gulped at the water, panting lightly, and let her head fall onto his shoulder again with a groan. "I want to go home," she whimpered quietly.
Fang, who had been among the villagers with the rest of her "cousins", stepped forward and nodded politely to Ronin. "We could take her back to the village, if you must stay here to organize things. She needs rest and care." His ears and tails flicked in a way that was similar to what Hana's did when she was concerned, though his expression was neutral.
Ronin looked around, Kumiko's soldiers were being round up and thrown in chains. He looked back down at Hanako and pressed a soft kiss on her head, before looking up to Fang. "I'd.. I'd rather stick by her," he answered, before glancing down at Hanako.
"Alright." He nodded again. "Perhaps try to feed her some broth. She and the kit both need nutrition, but it may be a day before she can keep down solid food."
Hana was blinking rapidly, trying desperately to stay conscious. "How- how did you-?"
Fang smiled slightly. "I can smell it. You would notice the difference if it was not your own scent."
Ronnin nodded, before looking back at Hanako, another soft kiss on her head. "Just rest, love. Just rest," Ronin murmured. "How.. Are we going to travel?" Ronin asked as his eyes widened in panick. He knew she wouldn't make the trek. Nor had they the supplies to take care of her during it.
Izuki stepped forward, snorting almost offended as she kneeled down next to Hanako, putting a hand on her shoulder and one on Ronin.
And within the blink of an eye, they were back in the small village where it began. Izuki looked pale and was panting, having done quite the feat. "I'll be fine," she panted heavily, dropping on her behind.
Ronin nodded and stood up, several of the villagers looked taken aback at the battered warrior and the frail kitsune. "Water and broth. My home. Now!" He called as he pushed himself up, face still profusely bleeding. He didn't care however, he bit through the pain to get to their own house and put her on the bed. Pulling the blankets over her before he stumbled back against the wall.
And at the same time, several village women entered with a bowl, a flask and several warm and wet towels, they gave Ronin a hesitant look, yet their doubts were easily cleared when he snorted and told them he'd be fine. That they had to take care of her first.
"W-wait-" Hana really couldn't do much to protest as suddenly everyone began fussing over her. She kept trying to tell people that she'd be alright, they should see to the seriously wounded first, but no one seemed to be listening.
Laying on the bed, she reached a hand out for her mate, fingers shaking slightly. "Daisuke..."
Ronin looked up at her and gave her a weak smile, having tied a makeshift bandage around his eye and cheek. He scooted closer to her and grabbed her hand, giving it a soft and comforting squeeze. "I'm here, Hana," he whispered softly. "I'm here.."
She frowned and reached up to touch the bandage lightly. "He hurt you," she growled weakly, clutching his hand tighter. Her vision was sort of swimming at the edges, exhaustion finally taking its toll.
"Daisuke." Her voice was small and scared. "Don't- don't leave, okay?"
"I won't," he promised with the same weak smile. "Just rest now," he murmured softly, closing his good eye again. "I won't ever leave you again."
"I'm sorry." Hana curled into his side as much as she could. "I'm sorry. I love you..." She was out in a matter of moments.
Ronin hugged her closely, kissing her hand and forehead. "Don't apologise," he murmured as she was already falling asleep. "It's alright.. I love you," another soft, yet this time lingering, kiss on her forehead as.tears rolled down his cheek. "It's over now. It's all over."
Even in her sleep Hana clung to him, so thoroughly exhausted she seemed almost dead to the world, unaware of anything going on around her.
Ronin held her close, even when his face was treated, the wound on his cheekbone sewn shut and his eye and face bandaged slightly, he didnt even flinch, holding the Kitsune close.
Completely asleep, Hana was unaware when the old healer woman entered their home and walked right into the bedroom.
She tapped shook Hana, but when that elicited not response tapped Ronin's shoulder. "Forgive me, Elder, but you need to get up."
Ronin looked up at her and frowned. "Why?"' He asked, but he stood up regardless, pulling the Kitsune up in his arms as he did.
"She needs to take this." She pressed a small flask in his hands that smelled strongly of herbs. "Her body will try to heal itself first- this is for the little one."
Ronin nodded slowly, accepting the flask and inclining his head. "Thank you," he asnwered, unsure how she realised Hana was pregnant, but he didn't care in the slightest, he was too tired, too wounded and too preoccupied with his lover in his hands to ccare for it.
The old midwife nodded. "I'll leave you to it then. Make sure she gets the whole thing down. If she gets sick, come find me and I'll make more." She moved toward the door, then added, "Her, ah...cousins are still here, by the way."
Hana mumbled in her sleep and curled up a little tighter.
He nodded once more in response. "Thank you," he answered, holding Hanako tight against his chest, putting the flask down on her. "Are they? Make sure they are treated well, as guests of this village," he answered. "I would speak to them but.. I have more urgent matters right here," he answered with a soft smile, feeling Hanako curl up in his arms.
She nodded again. "Of course. They don't seem to have any intention of leaving, I'm sure you'll get your chance to talk to them." She snorted and slipped out.
Hana stirred a bit more as she felt him shift, frowning and turning her face into his chest with a sleepy mumble.
Ronin chuckled weakly. "I had expected that," he answered, sitting down again as the woman left.
He felt Hanako stir in his arms and pressed a soft kiss on her forehead. "Sssh," he sushed with a faint smile.
Hana's back arched a bit, then she relaxed again, her brow smoothing out while one hand clutched at his arm in her sleep.
Ronin leaned against the wall, before slowly sliding down against it. His eye fluttered shut and soon, he found himself drifting off to sleep aswell, yet he woke each time his head slumped, forcing himself to stay awake.
And refusing to let go of Hanako as he did.
Hana was thoroughly unconscious, barely stirring even as she felt Ronin shift subtly. She seemed perfectly content to sleep away days, if not awoken.
Ronin yawned slowly, he was getting rather tired himself now. He stood up straight and moved to put Hanako down on the bed, following immediately and hugging her closer again. He didn't even bother to take off his armour or sheath.
And Hana continued to sleep, onto stirring slightly at their shift in position before she curled back against him, instinctively seeking warmth.
As Ronin woke in the morning, he'd try to coax Hanako awake with soft kisses on her forehead, lips and cheeks, gently sushing and shaking her as he did.
Very, very slowly Hana came around, blinking her eyes open halfway and arching her back slightly in a stretch.
"Daisuke?" It was very hard to keep her eyes open for some reason. "I'm so tired," she murmured, curling into him. "Please, just let me sleep..."
"I'll let you, love," he murmured in response, before pulling up the flask the midwife had given her. "You just need to finish this in one go," he murmured with another soft kiss to her cheek. "For the baby," he added, holding up the flask against her lips.
"But-" She sighed and relented, sitting up to down the contents of the flask. Her face screwed up an she coughed. "Gods! That tastes like ass."
"She did press on having you drink it entirely," he answered with a tired chuckle, taking the flask back and putting it on the nightstand again, pressing a soft kiss on her lips. "Go to sleep again, love," he murmured softly now.
Hana flopped back onto the bed, tugging at his arm weakly in an attempt to pull him with her. "Have you been sleeping?" she murmured tiredly, though concern was plain in her tone.
"I have," Ronin murmured in response. "But it's not too comfortable with the armour and swords," he answered as he was already setting about to pull them off. Drawing back from her momentarily.
After several minutes, he was done and wasted no time to pull Hana in a protective hug again, closing his eyes. "Better," he concluded.
"Good." She threw her arms tiredly around his neck and pressed as close as she could. After a moment, almost asleep again, she murmured, "I'm sorry... I won't leave again. I promise."
And she was asleep.
Ronin smiled softly as she murmured the words, he wanted to answer, but she had already drifted into a soft sleep. Instead, he leaned forward to press a soft kiss on her forehead, before he closed his own eye.
Whatever the healer had given her seemed to do the trick, because while Hana slept a good long while, she was eventually able to open her eyes and not feel like she couldn't even move her arms.
She groaned quietly and tried to roll over, but Ronin's grip around her prevented it. She smiled to herself and snuggled in.
Ronin felt the tug of Hanako trying to roll over, while the half orc didn't completely wake, he did pull Hana closer against his chest with a content little snort.
Hana chuckled softly as he pulled her in closer and settled in, content to lay there as long as she could get away with it.
After another hour, Ronin's good eye slowly slid open agai. Every so slightly, accompanied by a soft grunt of confusion. He glanced down and pressed a soft kiss on Hana's head, tightening the hug momentarily.
Hana smiled as she felt the kiss and blinked her eyes open sleepily. "Hey." She arched her back and looked up at him. "You're awake?"
"More or less," Ronin answered with a soft snort, looking down at her with a faint smile.
She frowned slightly and tucked her head down. "Please tell me we don't have to get up yet." Her voice was small and plaintive.
"Not yet," he answered with a soft chuckle, before whincing in pain. "Don't make me laugh.. It hurts.."
That had her sitting up a bit and her frown deepening. "Where? Let me see," she demanded quickly.
Ronin gestured at the patches and bandages on the left side of his face, infront of his eye aswell. "Both my eye and face were cut.. But I managed to make a killing blow in return,"
He smiled faintly. "Let's take that holiday now," he murmured softly.
"Yeah." She smiled tiredly and placed a cautious kiss on his unbandaged cheek. "Sounds good to me."
Ronin smiled faintly as he wrapped his arms around her shoulders. "How're you feeling.. Except for tired?"
"I'm fine." Hana smiled softly. "Really. All better now. I was just dehydrated before, mostly." And malnourished. Neither of which had gone over well with a body trying desperately to protect a new life.
But she didn't want to worry him, so she just kept quiet and allowed herself to be held.
Ronin nodded softly. "Good," he murmured in response, pressing a soft kiss on her head. "I'm glad.. You are alright."
"Of course I'm alright." She sniffed. "Powerful creature of fire and magic, remember?"
Ronin huffed softly. "You forgot adorable," he mused with another soft kiss on her head. "We did it," he murmured after a brief silence.
"We did." Hana smiled slightly and snuggled closer. "We really did it."
Ronin took a deep breath. "Let's kick back.. Let's live here.."
"Whatever you want." She huffed, then added, "I'll have to send word to Tobin though, eventually."
Ronin let out a soft chuckle. "You don't want to? You seem quite.. Ondifferent to the idea."
"I do want to, if it's what you want." Hana tilted her head back to give him a small smile.
He pressed a quick peckbon her lips. "But I want to know what you want. Completely disregarding me," he answered with a soft smile.
She chuckled and rolled her eyes. "I can't do that. All I want is to be with you, Daisuke. We can do or do whatever you want, as long as we're together."
Ronin smiled softly. "Then let's," he shook his head. "I love you so much Hana," Daisuke stated. "I.. Will no longer unsheathe my blade. I'm done fighting.. Let's just live, prosper and raise our child."
[Kinda short. But it has fitting music (https://youtu.be/5E7kT9Kuemo). The title also makes sense.]
Hana smiled and curled into his chest, wrapping her arms around his neck. "I love you, Daisuke," she whispered happily.
[Time skip?]
[Timeskip!]
The months that passed went rather uneventful, life in the village went on as usual, both Ronin and Hanako were viewed as the elders of the village, leading the residents. But nothing major happened, life looked up after the fall of Kumiko.
And so, days turned into weeks, weeks turned into months.
By the time things had settled into what Hanako could call "normal"- the kitsune she had called for aid returned to their homes, the village rebuilt and its residents content again- she felt like she was spending every other day chasing the healer off, the old woman convinced the baby would be born soon.
"I swear, it's not like I'm going into labor any minute!" She stormed into the cottage, or at least tried to, but it was rather difficult when she had to mind her now very round belly. Fuming silently, she stomped her way into the kitchen to search for something to eat, relieved to be out of the bustle of the village for a few moments.
While most of the nightmare involving Kumiko was gone, there were still hints at the nightmarish event. Firstly, there was Daisuke's face, a scar from his eye to his lip, aswell as a cut that pulled from his cheekbone l, through his ear.
Secondly, while Daisuke promised to never unsheath his blade again, a promise he had kept over the months and one he would keep, the villagers still wanted to have some kind of protection. So it fell to him to instruct and teach the villagers his swordmanship. He liked it. It reminded him of his past, eager students that looked up to him.
And thirdly, Izuki still remained, pestering both elders about a branch in their security force dedicated to eliminating threats before they even showed up, from the cover of shadows.
Ronin, who happened to enter the cottage just minutes after Hanako heard her messing around in the kitchen, he walked up and hugged her from behind, pressing a soft kiss on her cheek. "Is everything alright, dear? How are you feeling?"
"Oh, don't you start," Hana groaned even as she leaned back against him. Her tails and ears flickered irritably. "I just finished chasing off the midwife, don't tell me I have to reassure you too."
She twisted her head slightly to kiss his cheek before stepping out of his embrace, munching on an apple she'd found.
"I'm just worried," Ronin answered with a soft chuckle. "About both of you," he saod, leaning against the cupboard as she got out of the hug.
"Yes, yes." She waved a hand at him and bustled her way into the main room of the little house. "We're both fine- hungry, but fine."
The strange shifting sensation below her navel that she'd gotten used to over the past few months drew her attention and she laid her hand on her belly absently.
Ronin chuckled as he trailed behind her into the main hall. "That's good to hear," he answered, before glancing over his shoulder. "We do have enough food, still?"
Hana glared at him. "Oh ha ha. We're fine," she snipped, crunching another bite of her apple. Then: "Oh!" She blinked and glanced down at her hand on her stomach, then chuckled, "That was quite a kick."
"I.. Was being serious. Whether I had to go for supplies tomorrow," Daisuke answered, before shrugging. Then he frowned glancing at her belly. "Are you alright?" He asked again. If it was.. Quite the kick as she said, well, enough time had passed ever since. And the midwife that constantly pestered Hanako was also a telltale sign. It could be any day now.
"Oh." She flushed a bit- perhaps she'd been sensitive lately. "I'm fine, really. It was just a kick." She smiled and reached out to pat his hand. "I'm...tired. I think I might go lay down."
Daisuke nodded and czught her hand, giving it a soft squeeze. "I'll be right here," he answered with a soft smile.
Another smile and she slipped into the bedroom, curling up and dropping off to sleep quickly.
Daisuke turned around and started to prepare dinner, letting out a soft sigh as he did. It was so closeby, it could be any second now Hanako went into labour. And it was ennervating, he couldn't even displace the thoughts, before whincing in pain, having cut his own finger. He shook his head to try and clear the thoughts, but it simply did not work.
The smell of food dragged Hana from her nap and she blinked, then sat up with a yawn. "Daisuke?" She pushed herself off the bed with a grunt and shuffled her way back out into the main room.
Daisuke looked up as Hanako entered back into the main room. He smiled softly as he held up a bowl. "Surprise beef stew and fried potatoes," he said with a soft smirk. "And lots of garlic. I'm sure you're hungry, love."
A smile curved her lips and she moved forward to wrap her arms around his waist. "Have I told you lately that I love you?" she murmured with a quick peck to his cheek before taking the bowl gratefully.
"Not much, but I know you do regardless," Daisuke answered with a soft chuckle, before getting back to his own dinner. "Enjoy," he added with a gentle smile, before continuing to eat.
Hanako practically inhaled her meal. She was always hungry these days, despite the times of her odd cravings seeming to have died down.
A sharp twinge in her abdomen made her shift uncomfortably and she scowled, but she was too intent on her food to really pay it much mind. At least until there was another twinge several minutes later, this one more persistent and sharper. She yelped and her hand pressed to her belly.
Ronin also ate, regarding her with a soft frown at the scowl, but deciding to not persue it, interrupting her while eating was a bad idea these days. Yet as she yelped, the frown only deepened and he decided to speak up. After all, he was both a lover and a soon to be father. "Hana?" He inquired softly. "Everything alright?"
"Yeah... Yeah, I just- oh!" Another sharp twinge and Hana jerked in her seat. Wide eyed, she looked up at him. "I, um...something feels weird. And not good weird."
As she jerked into motion once again, Diasuke basically dropped the bowl he held back to the table, getting to his feet immediately. "We're seeing the midwife, now." He said, while he wasn't agressive in the least, it was his serious tone. The one kind that just did not tolerate any argument. He walked over to Hanako to help her up, while his tone was serious, the worry was readable on his face.
"I- okay." Hana leaned on him a bit as she got up. Another twinge- okay, not a twinge, a jolt, a pang- and she squeaked with a quick wince of pain.
"I, um, just give me a second," she panted, taking a bit more effort than she would've liked to actually put one foot in front of the other.
But Daisuke nor Hanako had a second to spare. Instead of waiting, he scooped her up in his arms with ease and a surprising tenderness to it. He turned around and practically kicked open the door, dislodging it slightly from it's hinges. Then he made his way towards the midwife, ignoring all onlookers' questions or comments, which were mostly well-wishings. Most knew what was up.
But the two elders were way too preoccupied now. Without much grace, Daisuke repeated his treatment of doors when he carried a near birth giving woman and kicked open the door of the midwife's house, immediately stepping in. He'd fix everything later.
The old healer looked up in surprise, then her mouth drew into a thin line and she stops with a sigh.
"Fool girl," she grumbled at Hanako. "How far apart are her contractions?"
Tails twitching nervously and wars flattened to her head, Hana muttered, "Um...five minutes? They started really fast."
"Hmm." The midwife jerked her head at Daisuke. "Unusual. Perhaps it's a fox thing. There's a bed through there, set her down and then give me room," she ordered sternly.
Honestly, the former warrior didn't know too much about all that stuff. But, the midwife had a more commanding tone than he had. Perhaps it was age, perhaps it was because she was female, but she was the kind of person to overrule even Daisuke's commanding tone. It was quite scary. "Yes," he answered hurriedly as he made his way towards the indicated bed.
And he did as told, immediately stepping back from her, yet making sure not to break his line of sight with her.
"You, out." The midwife bustled into the room and shooed Daisuke toward the door. Hana sat up quickly.
"W-wait-!" Another contraction made her hiss and clench her eyes shut.
Daisuke nodded at the midwife, before his eyes met Hanako's. "I'll be right outside, dear," he answered with a faint smile. "Nowhere else, I promise," he added, before pushing the door open and walking out.
"Hold on a second-!" Hana whimpered quietly as he left, looking to the healer fearfully.
"Just breathe, girl." The midwife shut the door, then sat beside her. "Women have been doing this long before you and they'll be doing it long after. Try to relax."
If the kitsune had wanted to respond she couldn't have- another contraction gripped her, this one much more insistent, and she gave a high cry of pain.
Daisuke stood next to the door outside, her cry of pain ripped through him, his eyes widened and he wanted to storm inside. But he couldn't take away the pain. Not this pain. It was impossible to do so.
For a while the sharp cries and gasps seemed to be the only sounds Hana could get out. Then there was a scary silence, then more screams- a few curses for Daisuke and men in general thrown in there- and the midwife's calm voice coaching her over the shouts.
At one point the healer opened the door and darted out of the room to grab a piece of fabric, then disappeared inside again. More cries, then quiet.
Then the distinct sound of a baby wailing.
[Preference on boy/girl baby?]
[Entirely up to you! If you don't know, I can flip a coin xD]
Daisuke leaned against the wall, listening to the cries and shouts, his eye closing momentarily. He had survived battles by the skin of his teeth, overthrown tyrants and fought with demons. Yet even he was shocked by the screams someone could produce. The silence made him just more nervous, fighting the urge to storm in there. Yet he knew that he'd just get in the way.
Then the shouting started again, cursing his name and being, causing him to smirk faintly. If she could formulate insults like these, it meant she was alright, a soft breath escaped him as the insults carried on. It only reassured him more.
However, when the midwife slipped out, before returning several seconds later, Daisuke couldn't hold himself back anymore and his slipped in behind her.
Hana had collapsed back into the bed, eyes half shut as she panted weakly. The midwife was wrapping up a small, squirming bundle.
"Here." The healer turned and delicately laid the baby in the kitsune's arms. The little thing wailed and wriggled, and Hana managed to sit up a bit to hold the child closer to her chest.
"Shh, shh. I know, I know, it's scary out here," she murmured. "It's alright, shhh..."
The midwife turned and moved to slip past Daisuke. "Congratulation, papa. A girl."
Hana seemed to have retreated into her own world with the newborn, who had stopped fussing in favor of seeking out her mother's warmth. The fine, whispy hair that covered her head was already jet black, and a pair of curiously twitching fox ears flicked back to press against her skull. The kitsune smiled down at her and kissed the top of her head delicately, crying quietly.
[I used a magic 8 ball :3]
[That works xD]
Daisuke was speechless, even when the midwife slipped past him and told him he now had a daughter. The warrior blinked slowly, before shaking his head, walking over to Hanako, kneeling down next to her, pressing a soft kiss on her cheek, before looking at the child. "Yuki," he murmured with a soft smile.
She nodded, mute, still just staring down at the kit. Her kit. "Yuki," she agreed quietly, finally lifting her eyes to smile at him.
She shifted a bit to give him room on the bed and twisted. "Here." Carefully cradling the baby with one arm, she took his wrist and guided him to hold her head before passing her off.
Daisuke took the small child, smiling warmly at the little child in his arms. "She's beautiful," he murmured, still smiling. "Our Yuki.."
"She is." Hana traced the outside of one folded little ear and the baby screwed up her face, wriggling in her father's arms.
Utterly exhausted, Hana let herself lean into her mate's side, one hand resting lightly on her daughter's chest.
Daisuke smiled softly, before chuckling. "I love you, Hana," he murmured softly. "Get some rest," he whispered after a short while. "Me and Yuki.. We'll stay right here."
"I love you too." She smiled softly and cradled Yukonclose again, kissing te baby's forehead before slipping down to lay properly on the bed, one arm a protective sheild around her kit.
There was a soft knock and the midwife stuck her head into the room. "If the little one starts fussing, make sure she's fed properly."
Daisuke smiled at her and pressed a soft kiss on Hana's cheek, before glancing at the door that opened, sighing softly as he got to his feet. "Yes, thank you," he answered with a soft nod, before glancing back at the two, thinking on how to go about moving them back to their cottage, which didn't possess the fuss of a midwife.
Hana was put in a matter of moments, curling around Yuki so her body formed a crescent around the baby. Her tails draped over her hip to wrap around the kit like a fluffy blanket and for the first time in weeks she seemed to be sleeping peacefully.
Daisuke looked back at Hana, shaking his head with a faint smile. Seemed like they were spending the night here, then. He couldn't even consider moving her now, seeing he didn't want to disturb his lover and child's rest.
Unfortunately, Hana didn't get to sleep long. She had a feeling that was going to be common from now on.
Yuki started fussing, then crying, eyes scrunched shut and tiny fists waving. Hana jolted awake, scooping the baby up and holding her to her chest. "Shh, shh." She panicked a bit, not sure what to do. Was she hungry? How did she-
She looked up at Daisuke. "I- I have no idea what I'm doing!"
Apparently Yuki did. Closer to her mother's milk, she managed to quest her way to Hana's breast and started fussing again. The kitsune did her best to mollify her, trying to figure out how to nurse the baby.
Daisuke glanced at her, smirking wryly as he sat up aswell. "Just.. What feels natural.. I don't know what else I can say," he answered truthfully. There were matters he could help with, but feeding the baby was not one of those things. Because he lacked the feminine attributes she possessed.
He did however, shuffle back behind her, supporting her physically, putting a hand on the one she was holding Yuki with.
When Yuki finally managed to start nursing Hana let out a sharp breath and shifted to better support the baby. She leaned against Daisuke slightly.
He smiled faintly, softly squeezing her shoulder in support. A soft kiss on her cheek followed before he sat back, supporting her.
Hana let herself relax back against him, figuring out how to support Yuki as the baby drank her fill, then eventually subsided and promptly fell asleep against her chest.
Ronin chuckled softly. "I think we'll get rest now," he murmured, kissing Hana's cheek softly. "After all, you sleep best after having eaten properly. And I doubt Yuki doesn't let herself go hungry that easily."
She nodded, already starting to nod off as she leaned closer against him.
Ronin put a hand on her shoulder, softly guiding her down to the bed again, chuckling softly.
Hana was asleep in moments, but Yuki seemed to be done with her nap shortly after her mother passed out. She didn't fuss much, but she wriggled and made small sounds, eyes squeezed shut.
Ronin kissed Hana's forehead softly as she went to sleep, before looking at Yuki, smiling softly. He tried to gather the small child from Hanako's arms, cradling her into his own arms if he actually managed to get her from the kitsune's grasp.
Hana shifted and frowned but didn't wake. Yuki fussed a bit more, then subsided, snuggling into his arms as much as a newborn could.
Daisuke smiled softly, unable to resist such a broad smile due to the sheer adorableness the little child possessed. It was out of this world.
He slowly and silently tried to lay down, making sure not to make Yuki fuss more.
Both Yuki and Hana seemed content to be dozing. The kistune curled toward her mate's warmth instinctively and the baby settled into the curve of their bodies.
Daisuke closed his eye aswell, allowing himself to drift off aswell, hugging Hanako closer while still holding Yuki in one arm.
Hana wasn't sure how long later it was that she woke, but Yuki was curled into the curve of her father's arm, Hana herself curved around the baby as much as she could be.
Daisuke was still fast asleep, holding both the baby and Hana close. His nostrils occasionally flared, his eyes moving behind the lids. It was quite obvious he was in quite the deep sleep.
She smiled softly and moved to sit up, but Yuki seemed to dislike the movement. With a few soft sounds to shush her, she picked the baby up and rocked her gently as she did her best to sit up and lean back against the headboard.
As Yuki was removed from his arm, Daisuke stirred slightly, his soft snoring hitching momentarily. Yet he turned on his other sound with a soft smacking of his lips, before proceeding to snore softly.
Hana just smiled a bit and settled the baby against her chest. She let her eyes roam over the infant's face, memorizing every detail. Yuki yawned and burbled quietly and her smile grew.
After a few hours, Daisuke stirred and snorted softly, before his eye fluttered open. He pushed himself up and rubbed the back of his head with a yawn.
"Hey." Hana tilted her head at him with a small smile, though her eyes were quickly drawn back to the baby. "We should probably get home soon, huh?"
"We should," Daisuke agreed quickly, leaning in to kiss Hana's cheek, hugging her closer, his eyes also drawn to Yuki. "Before she comes back."
The kitsune nodded, moved to stand, then realized with a small squeak that her legs were still too shaky to really support her and she sat back down abruptly.
Daisuke smiled softly as she sat down again. He stood up and made his way to her side of the bed, picking her up in his arms, along with Yuki, carefully. "Not too difficult," he said with a soft smile.
"D-Daisuke-" She tried to protest, but honestly she was still exhausted and it felt amazing to be held. She shifted Yuki to be curled more securely against her chest and let her head rest against Daisuke's shoulder.
"Sssh," he sushed softly, making his way towards the door, which he pushed open with one hand, using his other arm t hold Hana and Yuki up with relative ease. "I'll tuck you both back in at home," he answered as he tried to slip out of the house undetected.
And if he was succesful, after a short while of walking, he'd chuckle softly. "Daisuke, scum of the earth, huh? And that was one of the lighter ones."
Hana winced, then chuckled sheepishly. "Hey, if you were the one who had to go through childbirth, you'd have been cursing me too," she protested.
"Oh I don't doubt it,".he answered with a chuckle. "It was amusing to hear how much swearwords you actually knew." He smirked softly, glancing down at her. "Or how creative you got."
She grinned at him, completely unabashed. "It's a sign of intelligence. Can't help that I'm a genius."
"Hm, don't think I can," he answered, pecking a soft kiss on her forehead.
He stopped infront of their door, turning around to push it open with his back, shuffling inside to turn around agaon, headed for thethe bedroom.
Hana giggled, then quickly shushed both herself and her mate as Yuki stirred against her chest.
"She's so small," she murmured almost disbelievingly as she stared down at the tiny creature.
"She is," Daisuke murmured in response. "And so adorable," he chuckled softly as he slowly placed Hanako down on the bed. "Just like her mother."
Hana screwed up her face at him and stuck out her tongue, then settled into the bed and gently laid Yuki down so she could curl around her. Her tails wrapped around to cradle the baby.
Daisuke smiled softly at the two, taking several steps back, before turning around to head into the small living room, doubling as the place where they ate, closing the door behind him. He still had a mess to clean up, the mess made when they went for the midwife in a hurry. Yet the former warrior knew that getting these dtains out of the floor was nigh impossible.
Still exhausted, Hana fell quickly into a very deep sleep.
After a short while, Daisuke pushed the door to the room back open, sitting down next to Hanako, pressing a soft kiss on her forehead, softly shaking her shoulder to wake her from her sleep.
The kitsune groaned quietly and lifted her head. Yuki stirred, whimpering, and she automatically hushed her with a few murmurs and a stroke of her floppy ears.
"What's wrong?" she asked quietly, blinking up at Daisuke.
"It's noon," he whispered softly. "How painful it might be.. You'd have to get up.. We don't want you to start living at night," he said, pressing another apologetic kiss on her cheek.
"Mph." Reluctantly, she sat up with a yawn and a stretch. Her eyes flicked down to Yuki and she tilted her head. "I'm surprised she slept so long..."
As though on cue, the baby started to fuss, wriggling and giving soft noises of complaint.
Ronin chuckled softly, settling down next to her as she stretched.
He scooted over picking up Yuki as she started to make her discomfort know. He smiled softly. "What's wrong, hm?" He sushed softly as he cradled her.
Hana bit her lip. "Do you think she's hungry?" she asked nervously.
"I.. Guess that's the thing," he murmured withsoftly a soft chuckle. "Because I don't feel her.. relieving herself on my arm."
"Alright." Hana held her arms out. "Give her here. I guess we'll...figure this out."
"Like everything," he softly put Yuki in Hana's arms. "We're tied together with a kind of magic neither of us understands," he chuckled softly. "We freed slaves and defeated an oppressive warlord," he gave her a soft smile. "It's fair to say we're able to figure it out."
She snorted softly and pulled the shoulder of her kimono down to bear her breast. "Alright. Um..." She lifted Yuki to her breast and the infant started questing, making her squeak quietly when her tiny lips finally latched on.
"Oohhhhh this feels weird." She looked up at Daisuke with wide eyes.
He could only chuckle in response. "I'll never experience it," he answered, grinning softly as he rolled his shoulder.
She pulled a face at him and rolled her eyes, grumbling, "Smartass."
Her attention was drawn to the baby as she suckled, a very small smile curving her lips. "Wow. She's just...she's so little. How can she eat this much?"
Ronin soflty rested his hands on her shoulders, letting out a bemused chuckle. "It's amazing, isn't it?"
Hana nodded, obviously distracted. She leaned back slightly to settle herself against the pillows and glanced up at Ronin. "Oh, we're not keeping you are we? Don't you have...responsibilities?"
"I'm sure I do," Daisuke answered with an awkward chuckle. "But let Izuki take care of it. What kind of father andand husband would I be if I left now?"
She smiled and leaned against his side a bit. "We're not technically married you know," she pointed out with a soft chuckle.
"Hm?" He chuckled warmly. "That doesn't matter," he said with an answer. "Do you want to make it official?"
Hana's brow furrowed a bit and she shrugged. "I never really thought about it- doesn't matter much to me, but if you want to I don't mind."
Daisuke shook his head. "I love you, regardless," he answered with a soft smile. "I don't want your 'I don't mind', I want you to want it."
She sighed and let her head rest back. "I've never been told to want it," she told him with an arched brow. "It's my understanding that my kind don't really practice marriage. I never really thought it was all that important."
She shrugged, carefully so as to disturb her nursing kit as little as possible.
Daisuke shook his head, pressing a soft kiss on her cheek. "Then we don't," he whispered softly. "We're already bound regardless," he said with a faint chuckle.
"Mmm." Hana smiled as she glanced down at a slowly subsiding Yuki. "S'pose we are." The baby yawned and released her breast, cuddling back in to sleep. She chuckled and wiped at her mouth with the corner of the blanket.
Daisuke nodded with a soft smile. "I don't think it's nescessary," he added with a soft nod, glancing down at Yuki and smiling warmly.
Hana nodded, then yawned again. "I think I need another nap," she chuckled tiredly, lashes fluttering against her cheeks.
Daisuke nodded slowly. "Hmm," he nodded slowly. "Do you want me to stay here?" He asked with a soft frown and a gentle smile.
"If you want." She glanced down at the baby and frowned a bit. "We need a proper place for her to sleep..."
He shook his head and squeezed her shoulder softly. "That's not the question here," he answered. "What do you want? I'd gladly stay here, but I can also find something else to do." A soft chuckle followed his words.
The next remark made him look at their little critter and he nodded in agreement. "I'll look into that."
"Maybe...if you could find even a basket or something for her? Just for now, something I could wrap her up in so she'd be safe."
Daisuke chuckled softly. "I'll rummage around to find somethi-" as on cue, a small figure appeared from what seemed to be nothing, holding up a large, empty basket that could be used. She bowed deeply and, held the basket out. "Were you eavesdropping, Izuki?"
She glanced at Daisuke and nodded. "Indeed, Village Elder," she answered rather plainly, as if sheI had done nothing wrong.
Suddenly much more awake, Hana glowered. "Oi. How many times have I tried to explain personal space to you?" she grumbled, clutching her baby tighter.
Izuki put the basket down, before glancing up at the child, flustering ever so slightly at the sight.
Daisuke glanced at the girl, frowning slowly. It was the first time he saw Izuki shy like that. If it was her typical behaviour, she'd have dissappeared by now.
Yukon started fusssing again and Hana attempted to quiet her, completely absorbed in her child.
Daisuke glanced at Izuki, before back at Hanako.
The girl coughed momentarily, before disappearing again. "That.. Happened," Daisuke murmured as he rubbed the back of his neck, heading to pick up the basket.
"Hm."
Hana was rocking Yuki now as the baby began wailing. "Oh no no no, shh. You're alright, it's okay," she crooned, glancing up at Daisuke with wide eyes.
He returned the wide eyed glance with a soft frown. "Maybe Izuki scared her?" He suggested, hoping their child was not imprinted with the demons he and Izuki shared.
"Maybe." Hana stood and started rocking slowly from side to side, trying to calm the now thoroughly distressed baby.
Daisuke walked over, hugging Hana and cradling the child with her, sushing softly. "It's alright," he murmured softly.
"She won't stop crying." It was taking a lot of self control for her to not start wailing like the baby in her arms.
He nodded slowly, taking a deep breath, leaning over to rest his hand on Yuki. He closed his eyes with and kept sushing the baby. "It'll be fine, Yuki, we love you," he murmured as he used his clairvoyance to see whether there was any corruption in the child's body.
Yuki continued to cry and Hana had to sit at the edge of the bed, still rocking her gently. "I don't know how to do this," she mumbled under her breath. "I don't know how to do this, what am I doing, this is insane..."
Daisuke sat down next to her, pulling her into a gentle hug, cupping Yuki's back with his free hand. He pressed a soft kiss on her cheek. "Maybe," he answer with a soft sigh. "But we can do this, Hana, together."
He smiked softly. "I know we can."
Oblivious to her mother's panic, Yuki continued to wail. Hana took a few deep breaths and renewed her efforts to calm her, rocking and murmuring soothing nonsense.
Daisuke leaned forward, also starting to murmur along with Hanako, softly stroking Yuki's chest aswell, before he started to hum softly.
The baby just continued to cry, and now Hana was close to tears herself. "I'm sorry, I'm sorry," she wailed. "I don't know what's wrong, sweetie, I'm sorry..."
Daisuke also seemed at a loss of what was wrong. Yet he had to comfort the two of them, rather than Yuki alone.
He softly squeezed Hanako's shoulder and softly started to sing a lullaby.
The one they sang together when they had just met.
Yuki was still crying, but miraculously she seemed to be drifting off as her wails died down to sniffles. Hana slumped and nearly cried with relief.
Daisuke took a deep breath, starting the lullaby again. At least something was working. As soon as he was certain Yuki had calmed down enough, Daisuke stood up straight and grabbed the basket, examining it for a short amount of time.
He then glanced at Hanako. "Do we have a spare blanket somewhere?" He asked with a faint smile.
She sat on the edge of the bed, head bowed over the baby. "Maybe in the main room?"
Daisuke nodded slowly. "Perhaps. I don't know what's best for her. Or for you," he said with a wry smile, wiping away a stray tear.
Hana shook her head. "I don't know how to do this," she whispered. "She's a tiny person, and we're supposed to make sure she's okay..."
"We'll make do," Daisuke answered with a soft sigh. "And we'll raise her to a proper, big person." He offered her a soft smile, pressing a soft kiss on her lips. "It'll be fine."
The kitsune whimpered a bit but didn't argue, holding Yuki closer and leaning back against him.
[From here on the timeskip? Or you want this to get on a bit longer? Also, how far are we jumping again?]
Daisuke held her close, still smiling softly. "We'll do this together, Hana."
[Yeah, here is good. And I figured like 2/3 years?]
Hana nodded sleepily, struggling to keep her eyes open. "Gods, I am not prepared for this," she muttered.
[Got'cha, if you need anything changed, don't be afraid to PM me ^^]
And so, three years passed. And the pair did what they always do. They made do, and after all, they seemed to be at least decent parents. After the stress of several weeks, it seemed like things looked up and slowly, among the many sleepless or short nights of parenthood, happiness returned.
It took two years for other villages to contact Daisuke, informing him of trade routes, caravans. He accepted all for the interest of the village, to make sure everyone was warm and fed. However, there were also feudal lords who wanted to take the village 'under their wing'. The truth was that they feared any kind of insurgents with free reign. But they didn't dare to send troops. After all, Daisuke had made quite the example with pushing back Kumiko.
However, he made sure other villages didn't follow his principle. It was in their best interest to stay under their feudal lords. He started to train people that were interested, after all, they still needed protection. He didn't fear an attack, yet he was quite solid on the fact that they needn't slack off. The stress started to show after three years.
What used to be a warm, jet black crown started to get littered with several grey hairs. Yet he never wavered or hesitated to spend time with Yuki or Hanako. He was taking everything on his shoulders and seemed content with it. Even though it visibly took it's toll.
And so, Daisuke was sat upon their porch one evening, cross legged with the still sealed sword on his lap. Softly playing the flute. A half empty bottle of sake next to him.
Kitsune did not age as mortal creatures did. Three years was not so long a span to them, but Hana felt her whole world change in that time. She may not have shown the aging the way her mate did, but it was clear in the new depth to her eyes one might occasionally notice.
She sat listening to Daisuke play, legs crossed with Yuki trapped between them as she ran a comb through the little girl's hair. Black fox ears twitched under the attention and she wriggled, trying to escape.
"Ah-ah!" Hana wrapped her arm around her daughter's middle to hold her still. "This'll only take longer the more you fight it," she pointed out.
With all of a toddler's logic, Yuki pouted, "No it won't. Don't wanna."
Daisuke lowered the flute, letting out a soft chuckle at the interaction. He laid the wooden instrument down on his lap and regarded mother and child with a soft smile, before looking at the setting sun.
"A lot changed, didn't it?" He murmured with a wry smirk.
Hana smiled a bit and nodded. She bent to press a kiss between Yuki's ears as the girl fidgeted again.
He rested his hands on the sword, glancing up at the settling sun. A soft sigh left him as he pushed himself up. "I have to talk with someone," he said with a soft smile. "Don't stay up for me," he added as he leaned over to press a soft kiss on Yuki's cheek. "Sleep well," he murmured to her, before standing up straight and making his way down the small porch.
"Papa." Yuki reached up for him, frowning, but Hana shushed her, standing with the child on her hip.
"Be home soon," she murmured with a small smile before turning to go inside.
He walked over to Hana, leaning over to press a soft kiss on Yuki's forehead, before standing up, pressing a soft kiss on Hanako's lips. "Won't be long," he promised with a soft smile.
At that, he made his way down once again glancing over his shoulder with a soft smile before leaving.
He made his way down the path, soon to be joined by the small figure of Izuki. They both made their way to a rather secluded spot.
Izuki sighed softly. "So, you felt it too?" She inquired after glancing around to make sure there weren't any obvious on-lookers. "The avatar has been released. We'll be targeted soon." Daisuke nodded slowly. "I feared such.. I don't want to fight." Izuki shook her head. "Allow me to plant these powers in others. Make a band of people like us, volunteers."
Hana's tails twitched absently as she moved inside, Yuki's arms around her neck and her head on her shoulder. The toddler was quickly falling asleep and she rolled her eyes with a small smile.
"Little terror," she murmured affectionately, kissing her temple as she moved to lay the girl on the small cot that had been placed at the foot of the bed once the child was big enough to leave her cradle.
It took several minutes for Daisuke, shaking his head bitterly. "I won't allow it," he murmured with a soft sigh. "You know the night terrors associated. You know the pain one suffers for this," he answered, scowling slightly.
Izuki grit her teeth, shaking her head. "So, then what?! We let ourselves be killed by that thing?! Without fighting?!" It was the first time he witnessed Izuki raising her voice. She was always calm and cold. Yet this time, she seemed afraid. "No, we'll give it a fight. But if we let more people tap into the shadows, the avatar will only grow more volatile. More powerful."
Izuki hissed bitterly. "People will die," she gestured a the katana to his side. "You even come to meet one of your operatives alone, in the forest with a sword you have vowed to never use again. What are you even thinking?!"
Daisuke shook his head. "Because I trust you," he clapped a hand on her shoulder. "Give me time to think. I will consider it," he finally sighed.
With that said, Daisuke turned around and made his way out of the forest, back towards their house. He picked up the bottle and made his way inside.
Hana was curled up around a sleeping Yuki, the girl having refused to sleep in her own bed. The kitsune was nearly asleep herself, ears barely twitching when she heard her mate's approach.
Daisuke, placed the bottle down on theher table with the mental promise of cleaning it up later. He softly pushed open the door of their bedroom and immediately adjusted his step to be more silent.
He stripped down his vest and most garments, silently crawling underneath the sheets and slowly drifting off.
To a rather distressed and fitful sleep.
Hana shifted over automatically to make more room for Daisuke, then she was asleep again, well and truly exhausted from a day of chasing an energetic toddler- who was beginning to show an aptitude for her mother's magic.
It seemed he settled in the night, right up until he almost jumped up, his good eye wide. A soft panting came from him as icy cold sweat traveled down his body.
As soon as he got a grip on reality, Daisuke sighed softly and rested his head in his hands, trying to focus more on the two next to him, rather than the whispers that had started to cloud his mind for some days now.
Hana was awake in an instant. "Daisuke?" She reached out to touch his arm, her other hand stroking Yuki's back as the girl stirred slightly.
He took a deep breath and rested a hand on Hanako's. "Just a dream," he whispered softly.
Convinced her daughter was still asleep, Hana shifted to wrap both arms around his waist. "Go back to sleep," she murmured. "I'm right here."
Daisuke nodded slowly, managing to enforce a faint smile. "I know," he answered in a hushed voice. "I love you," he added as he slowly laid down again. He took another deep breath and closed his eyes again. "It was just a dream," Daisuke murmured softly.
Hana nodded and stretched up to kiss his forehead. "Sleep, love," she murmured, closing her eyes.
He let out a soft breath. "Yes," he only murmured in response, closing his eyes briefly.
It didn't take him longer than ten minutes for him to slowly get up, making his way out of the room.
"Papa?" Yuki rubbed her eyes and raised her head sleepily. "Where ya goin'?"
"Just outside, sweetie," Daisuke answered with a tender smile, heart warming at the question. "Papa needs some fresh air. You keep mommy warm," he whispered softly, before stepping out.
He made his way to their small porch, picking up his flute on the way through. He settled on his knees with a soft grunt and looked up the night sky, before raising a hand to his face.
A silent sob following.
"M'kay." Yuki settled down again, curving into her mother and wrapping her puffy black tail over her own legs as she curled up.
Hana opened her eyes a few minutes later and glanced around. "Daisuke?" She kept her voice soft in an effort not to wake the child.
He wasn't currently in the room, so her call went unanswered.
Outside, Daisuke took a deep breath to steady himself. He sat back in a more casual manner. Thoughts overtook him. Those mostly consisted of this so called avatar.
"Mama?"
Hana winced. Seemed she'd woken the girl after all. "It's okay, sweetling. I'm just gonna go see where Papa went, okay?" She dipped her head to kiss Yuki's brow and climbed out of bed carefully.
He remained in thought, even as Hanako stepped out on the porch and joined him eventually. He was looking at the small flight of stairs before him. A frown plastered on his face.
Hana remained quiet as she settled herself beside her mate, two of her tails wrapping around his waist silently. The other two- she had four now, having earned another soon after Yuki's birth- folded into her lap.
She knew he'd talk when he was ready.
Daisuke glanced at her as the tail wrapped around, before he returned back to staring off into the distance. Complacent and silent. It took him several minutes before he spoke, either because he couldn't find the right words or because he was still lost in thought. Chances were, it was either of those.
"I'm scared," he admitted with a soft sigh. Those, that was a right start, or so he told himself. "The dream- Nightmares are getting worse. The voices are becoming louder," he sighed softly. "And it's not only me. Izuki told me the same."
Hana was quiet for a few moments.
"Okay," she said slowly. "So. What's the next step?"
"I.. Don't know," Daisuke answered, taking a deep breath to try and soothe himself. "I don't even know how it'll escalate from here. But it will."
She shook her head and leaned against him. "Then we take things as they come."
A soft sigh left the half orc. "I.. It'll get worse. The voices.. The dreams. It's a spiral, Hana."
Hana twisted her head to kiss his shoulder.
"Like I said. We'll take it as it comes." She stood and held her hand out to him. "Come on. It's late, you've had a long day, and your daughter will want to see you when she wakes up."
Daisuke clasped his hand in hers, letting out a soft grunt as he pulled himself up. A faint smile on his face. "I'd hate to disappoint her," he agreed, leaning in to press a soft kiss on her lips. "Thanks," Daisuke murmured softly as he stood up straight again, before wrapping an arm around her shoulder. Only to start moving back inside the house while holding her close.
"Mhm. It's what I'm here for," Hana murmured, smiling slightly as she led him back to their room.
"No, for so much more," Daisuke whispered softly, accompanied by a soft squeeze on her shoulder. He rested his hand on the door and took a deep breath. "We.. Should think about a room for Yuki," he said with another soft whisper, trying to meet her eyes. "Y'know.. For when it gets.. Worse."
"Daisuke." She turned and laid her hands gently on his waist, looking up at him. She nodded slowly. "Okay. But you know she's only going to sneak back in here if she has a nightmare or something."
She rocked up onto her toes to kiss him. "She's love you. We both do."
He returned the soft kiss, pulling her closer against him. "I know she will.. But she won't have a nightmare each night," he answered with a soft chuckle. Unlike him, she wouldn't.
"I know you do. I know Yuki does.. I love you both as much as possible," Daisuke said with a soft sigh. "That's why I want to save her from the sight of her father jolting upwards in the middle of the night, muttering incoherently. I don't want to scare her."
Hana sighed and nodded again. "Alright." She kissed him again, then laced her fingers through his and pulled him to the bed. "But that can be a problem for tomorrow.
Yuki stirred slightly, perhaps roused a bit by the noise, and curled into a tight little ball so her fluffy black tail was almost covering her face.
Daisuke nodded softly. "I'll add it to the list," he jested with a soft grin, shaking his head.
The former samurai got into bed again, resting down behind Yuki's back. He snorted softly and scooted closer to draw the little girl in, cuddling her softly, arm raised as an invitation to Hana as well. One of the advantages of being as big as he was.
The kitsune smiled and snuggled into the bed, curling her body around Yuki's and subsequently tucking her head against his chest. "Get some rest."
"I will," he murmured, closing his eyes and once more, trying to catch some sleep. And soon, he did drift off into a deep sleep. Gods knew he needed it, he was exhausted from the past days. Stress taking it's toll.
He woke up in the morning as the sun peaked through the blinders. Daisuke grunted softly, sitting up, rubbing the back of his head.
Hana woke when she felt her mate stirring, and Yuki grumbled something and rolled over onto her back, ears twitching and nose scrunched up.
He glanced down at Yuki and smiled softly, shaking his head. But regardless, he got up, before tucking both Yuki and Hanako back in. He walked out the room, to their small kitchen area to prepare breakfast.
Hana sat up a bit and covered a yawn with her hand, watching him go with a very small frown.
It took several moments before the scent of fried eggs and re-heated stew would fill the bedroom. The sizzling and crackling of fire audible.
Yuki's nose twitched and she suddenly sat up, rubbing her eyes. "Papa?" She looked around, then up at Hana. "Mama, wha-"
She chuckled and pulled her daughter into her arms. "I believe he's making breakfast, sweetling. C'mon."
Preparing breakfast was indeed the thing he was doing. Heating up yesterday's stew, but lacing it with honey, along with warm, toasted bread. He was halfway through putting the bowl of stew and the tray of fried bread on the table as Yuki and Hana walked in. Causing him to smile softly. Something he did way too few the past months. "Good morning Yuki," he stated with the same soft smile, unwavering.
"Mornin', Papa." The little kistune reached up to him, demanding silently to be picked up.
Daisuke chuckled softly, picking up the toddler and placing her to sit on his arm. He moved over to Hana as well, placing a soft kiss on jer lips. "Did you sleep well?" He inquired. Despite having her outside with him. Apart from the waking up in the middle of thethe night in cokd sweat part.
Eyes soft, Hana nodded and leaned up to give him another kiss.
"Ick!" Yuki protested, wrinkling her nose up and sticking out her tongue.
Daisuke looked down at Yuki and chuckled softly, shaking his head. He squeezed Hana's shoulder once more, before taking a step back, walking over to place the young girl in her seat.
Smiling, the kitsune took a seat herself and ruffled Yuki's hair, making the girl pout and squirm.
He shook his head with a soft smirk, leaning over to scoop the little kitsune's portion in, putting down a slice of fried bread next to it. "Here you go," he said with a soft smile. "Daddy's magical sweet stew."
The child made a sound of delight and fell on her food. Hana laughed. "Gods, you'd think we never feed the girl," she chuckled, shaking her head.
A soft chuckle as he nodded in agreement. "I've seen wolves less ferocious," he fell in with a soft grin.
Not quite sure if she was being teased or not, Yuki frowned at them for a moment before she continued eating.
The frown caused Daisuke to chuckle softly, shaking his head as he started to eat as well. He looked to Hanako and smirked softly. "How is it?"
She smiled, nodding. "Delicious. Thank you." She shifted a little closer to him, letting her shoulder press against his.