enevi

[enevi]

Here’s Why You Should Read Bokura no Kiseki

Fun little fact: I read the first 50 something chapters within a few days the first time I read it. The second time I read those same 50 chapters within two days on a busier than normal schedule. These chapters are LONG folks. I had homework.

General Summary: Minami Harusumi grows up knowing he’s the reincarnation of a princess. After being bullied for years about claiming to have been a princess, he resolves to be just Minami Harusumi in high school–but then his classmates begin to remember, too, and they start to piece together the circumstances of their deaths.

tl;dr highlights: WORLDBUILDING LORE MAGIC, romance that doesn’t want to make you scream, side characters with personalities and relationships among each other and not just with Minami, angst, friendship, the conflict of past vs present

detailed, spoiler-free highlights under the cut!

Keep reading

[enevi]

Back on track

The English version of The Beast Player was published not so long ago and I decided to do its sequels first, as probably most of Nahoko Uehashi's fans got their hands on it quite recently and maybe want to know what happens after that cliffhanger ending. The anime has something resembling epilogue but it's more of a tease than anything else. So, if you want to know what happens in between the cliffhanger and the anime epilogue, strap in ;)

The first two volumes were published in 2006. The anime Kemono no Souja Erin and the manga cover the same material with the latter being much MORE faithful to the novels (no strange hair color change, no obnoxious sidekicks and no unnecessary side characters). The abovementioned The Beast Player is also the compilation of the first two parts, so don't worry if the book count doesn't match. Then came 2009 and the sequel novels (The Quest Chapter and The Final Chapter) were published and some time later one more book saw the light of the day - kind of interquel, kind of spin-off, titled simply Kemono no Souja: Gaiden - Setsuna ('The Beast Player: Side Stories - The Moment'). It consists of three stories with the eponymous Setsuna ('The Moment') being the main part and Hajimete no… ('The First…') as its sequel. We also get Himegoto ('The Secret') that tells the story of Esal's secret past. The paperback version has very tiny bonus story of Soyon nursing little Erin but it's not very important plot-wise and there's really nothing to write about in it. As Setsuna tells the story of how Erin and Ial got together I'll post its summary first (by the end of the week for sure) and then go to The Quest Chapter which chronologically takes place a few years later. I'll write the summary of Esal's story sometime later, because it doesn't fit anywhere in the main storyline. Hope you're ok with that :). By the way, I just CAN'T get over the transliteration used in the official translation of The Beast Player and am much more accustomed to use the one from anime version and the one I used in my graduation thesis (it was long, long time ago and I had to improvise…). It mainly deals with changing "r" to "l" and getting rid of "u" in some cases as it's frequently omitted in spoken language. The differences are not that big so I hope that you'll bear with me…

[enevi]

Woah, that's all… For now, at least, since the third anthology of short stories from Twelve Kingdoms universe is suppose to come out next year. Will get my hands on it as soon as possible… Next I plan to write the summaries for a few other novels, mainly by Uehashi Nahoko, because I'm crazy about her Kemono no Souja and Moribito series. And as only two volumes of both series has been published in English so far and there's no information about more coming out in the upcoming months, I'm planning to work on that. Hoping you liked the plot of Shirogane no Oka, Kuro no Tsuki as much as I enjoyed writing the summaries :D

[enevi]

Shirogane no Oka, Kuro no Tsuki - Volume Four

Welcome to Mt. Kan'you where overwhelming darkness and silence are its captive only companions. Seven long years spent in total isolation while desperately trying to survive. One miraculous encounter later newly freed King gets straight into… With no one to seat on the royal throne the kingdom slowly falls into ruin, winters are becoming harsher and there's not enough food and coal to survive the long period of heavy frost. Also the wild beasts roam the ravaged country. Some come out of the depths of the earth and one of them sleeps in the bowels of Mt. Kan'you. Having investigated all of its accessible corridors Gyousou starts to prepare a trap for suugu he found there. Knowledge gathered during those few years spent in the wasteland of Yellow Sea and the accidental gift found in the basket, make it possible for him to improvise and successfully catch the beast. Taming it is difficult and dangerous but he manages and names his new companion Rakou. All of this brings back some memories of Taiki and how Gyousou was able to make a young kirin happy just showing him the way to set the trap. So many years have passed and even though the king knows that Taiki is probably all grown up, he's unable to imagine the adult version of the sweet and innocent child he once knew. Everyone said that kirin's disposition didn't fit in with the fierce personality of Tai itself. For one has to be temperamental enough to survive country's harsh climate. Does it now? Still imprisoned in the dark, Gyousou apologizes to Taiki for not having been able to save him. Then thanks the Heaven for giving him the means to escape…

*** Meanwhile in the capital city of Kouki the guards foil the attack on Taiki and the quick investigation leads the ministry to Shison, who desperately tries to convince others that he just tried to save the country from kirin impersonator and when he sees that his master doesn't come to his rescue, he confesses that Chouun was the real mastermind and having the testimony of various officials within the ministry, the royal court is able to get rid of both Shison and Chouun at the same. Thus despite some protests and thanks to Asen's support Ansaku becomes the temporary chousai, but he still plans to become something more and starts his own game for real… *** At the same time more and more people start to come to Seisai where Gyousou's followers are gathering forces, with the official reason being the restoration of the local temples destroyed in the purge few years ago. Risai and her companions are full of hope and with the Kyuusan's rebels lending their hand in Gyousou's search the task doesn't seem so impossible anymore. That is, till Sekirei brings the report from Tonkou saying that something suspicious is happening in the local office as the provincial army got the orders to prepare the accommodations for the troops coming from the capital itself. For a moment the group debates if the government has somehow gotten the wind of their actions, but as the number of mobilized soldiers (around 2500) is quiet small for the forces moving under the order to annihilate the rebels, they come to the conclusion that there must be something else… And as the rumor says that the coming troops are interest in getting to Mt. Kan'you the resistance is not really happy about the possibility of having to abandon their search that has yet to really begin… *** As forces led by Yuushou and Ukou arrive at Rin'u they discover that previously thought to abandoned Mt. Kan'you and neighboring cities are occupied by the rebels. And when Yuushou plans what to do, Ukou proposes what he thinks to be the easiest solution: attack the bandits, make the cooperate in digging through the corridors and after getting their hands on Gyousou simply get rid of the workers. Quiet simple, but somehow Yuushou is even more disgusted with Ukou so he temporarily backs out. After leaving one unit (500 men) in Rin'u the troops head for Sokou and send the messenger to Kyuusan demanding him to let them through to the Mt. Kan'you. Kyuusan's people suggest contacting the resistance (Risai and co.), but their leader quickly shoots down the idea stating that it's ridiculous since they're no allies and yes, they cooperated once but that's it. And as the band plans to hold out as long as possible for innocents to escape, resigned Yuushou gives the order to attack. Rebels don't give in for some time, but then suddenly evacuate under the cover of the night leaving the city empty. Fearing them coming back Yuushou leaves yet another unit in Sokou ordering them to get in contact with those waiting in Rin'u and leads the rest of the troops towards the mountain. Not long after that the resistance stationing at Seisai gets the news about the siege of rebels' city and people start to discuss sending reinforcements, but since Sougen doesn't know Kyuusan in person to him Kyuusan's people are just plain criminals and he simply has no intention in aiding them, as their involvement may result in Asen discovering their existence and sending the army to destroy them, before they're able to get enough people to fight back. As of now they've only gathered around 5000 people, most of them not being real soldiers and what’s more they still have no idea about Gyousou's exact whereabouts. Risai and Kiitsu try to convince to convince him, but knowing it might take too much time to really make a difference for Kyuusan, Kenchuu leaves the group to gather volunteers and manages to get around forty to go with him. In the end Risai is able to convince her friends to help and starts to make preparations to move out with Sougen's forces backing her own. Meanwhile Yuushou's forces continue the siege of Anpuku and impatient Ukou has enough of it and ignoring the order to stay put he gathers his men and they move out to get rid of the runaways. As they discover the small group of the rebels hiding in the ruins of the two abandoned villages they proceed to annihilate them with Ukou taking a great pleasure in dismembering an old woman himself in the second village and leaving the young mother with children to his people. As Kenchuu and his companions run into Ukou's men, Kenchuu himself gets wounded by their leader himself who getting the job done runs back to his own companions, extremely angry that he lost his expensive mount and had to use the one left by his man. As he nears the place where he left one group of his men, he's greeted with the suspicious man easily defeating his subordinates. As he observes the man fighting he recognizes the one they where suppose to dig out in the first place and hearing Kenchuu's men getting closer, he runs. When Kenchuu and the others make it there they just find a mysterious man holding a crying child, the corpses of Ukou's man and after searching the nearest house are shocked to discover just what Ukou is capable of doing. Since there's not many of them they fall back taking the unresisting man with them. Yuushou's becoming more and more impatient with the siege taking so long and starts to think about finally using air cavalry to speed things up, but suddenly there's commotion and Ukou's barging in saying that he saw Gyousou. Yuushou's surprised and displeased with Ukou's actions but sends the soldiers with hi to go after the king. Sometime later his men come back and their leader, Shishin is furious because not only did Gyousou got away, but the soldiers discovered the aftermath of Ukou's massacre and are voicing their complains about involving Ukou in the first place. Yuushou promises to address this matter later, but now they have to go after Gyousou. Even as the night falls Yuushou decide to go after Gyousou and sends order to move out to the unit in Sokou. Kyuusan gathers survivors and as the army leaves they prepare to escape the fallen city and try to get the attention of the rear forces in order to aid their escaping families. But as they make across the river they discover that their friends were destroyed earlier by Ukou's men and also that something else than them is stopping army's advance. This something being soldiers protesting against Ukou's actions and demanding Yuushou to intervene but as they're in the middle of the battle there's little he can do and what's more the hated groups laughs off the threats saying that Asen's backing them. This enrages soldiers even more and Ukou uses the commotion to his own advantage and escapes with his surviving and Yuushou has to send a search party for them, which in the end is unable to locate them. As the dawn nears Yuushou seeing the state of his troops and orders them to go back to Anpuku to regroup. Noticing that Kyuusan's group makes a desperate run toward the abandoned city but finds the air cavalry there. Seeing the backing army and air troops going after them, they think that it's the end but suddenly they hear the battle cry of thousand voices and one of the Kyuusan's companions who managed to climb the slope cheers seeing the forces coming to their aid. Shocked Kyuusan can't do much more than staring as Risai descends from the sky on the back of her powerful beast. The general greets the rebels and sends them ahead to join their surviving families. As rebels escape Risai starts thinking about withdrawing as defeating royal army was not the purpose of this escapade. It was simply to disorient the troops and make it possible for the Kyuusan's band to run away, but as they talk, Seishi's cry announces the sudden arrival of Sougen's forces, because as Kiro explains, the provincial army was not moving so Sougen decided to mobilize his troops effectively entrapping Yuushou's forces and making it resistance surprising victory. The mysterious cavalry from Anpuku turns out to be some of Risai's former forces under the lead of her long-lost companion, Oukou, who general is extremely happy to see. She learns from him that even though much of her troops perished in the purges, about half of the people survived, including three of five of her direct subordinates, one of them being Kouyuu, currently moving with his soldiers to Bun Province. Yuushou himself quickly becomes resigned to his fate when he discovers that the air cavalry flying from Anpuku does not belong to his troops. He's also furious because clearly his troops walked into the situation with no way to win. Not knowing beforehand about rebels occupying Mt. Kan'you, underestimating their numbers and abilities and on a top of that having to tolerate Ukou's behavior and soldiers consequent protests. Yuushou and his men were once Asen's people and took pride in it. But with this defeat everything comes to an end. In the aftermath of the battle resistance forces settle in ruined capital of Kan county, Saihou, regrouping and dealing with the prisoners. Suddenly though Risai and Sougen are informed about the existence of the suspicious man whom Kenchuu's forces took captive and as the officers noticed his weapon, they thought it necessary to inform their superiors. Risai takes one look at the sword and quickly demands to be taken where the prisoner is held. Full of hope but also dread Risai and Sougen run to the ruined house and discover that the emaciated man clad in rags is no one other but Gyousou himself. The king doesn't hide how glad he is to see them but is also fairly amused with their spontaneous reactions - Sougen, Seishi and Oukou openly crying and Risai frozen in place. As the news about Gyousou's sudden appearance travels through the camp and soldiers are celebrating, Yuushou quietly contemplates his own situation, musing that if the situation were reversed Asen probably could never get the same reaction. At least, the person who Asen has become - withdrawn, but also merciless and unnecessarily cruel. Coming to terms with the 'death' of his former master Yuushou bids him farewell and readily accepts his fate. Whatever it may be. In the meantime, Risai introduces Gyousou to the people without whom she wouldn't make it this far. After hearing the story of Zui'un Temple the king expresses his gratitude towards the priests that spoke up for him when no one else did and thanks Kyoshi for everything. He's also really intrigued by Houto, who comes from the same province as him and praises his design of the new flag for the resistance troops - the same white one as used by survivors of Tetsui, but with touches of the black ink to differentiate themselves from normal pilgrims. Then they proceed to discuss their immediate plans - escorting Gyousou to En Kingdom to ask for help. First they will take him to the nearby city of Rokou to rest and then depart for the abandoned mountain in Kou Province to get above the Sea of Clouds and then to En. They not only want to visit Touka once again and thank its residents for help, but also are reluctant to use any nearer mountain in fear of getting unwanted attention and alarming the capital. And as they have to travel away from the prying eyes they will need to take a long way around through the mountains of Ba Province in the west and then moving south to Ten County in Kou. The next day Gyousou leaves camp for Rokou. Sougen, on the other hand, goes to talk with the captured leader and as he makes way though the makeshift prison, some of the arrested soldiers ask after Gyousou and make their allegiance to him clear, but Sougen doesn't respond to that. First he needs to speak with Yuushou and he's afraid to hear that somehow Asen got the wind of their actions, because if that's the case he will have to order his people to get rid of everyone captured, his former friend included. Thus he extremely relieved that Yuushou's purpose was to investigate Mt. Kan'you and bring Gyousou back. In turn Yuushou asks about them coming to rebels help, but also congratulates Sougen on finding the missing king, to which Sougen answers that his master freed himself and they met him by accident. They joke about it for a moment, but then Sougen turns somber and asks Yuushou what he's intending to do. The defeated leader readily declares that he himself would gladly serve Gyousou as Asen finally went to far, rejected his loyal retainers and tolerated Ukou's behavior. Then Yuushou proceeds to convince his subordinates to defect to resistance and they agree, becoming the part of Sougen's forces. They also talk about the situation in Hakkei Palace. Yuushou is shocked to learn of the possibility of Taiki lying, but then describes how the court reacted and how many people still have their doubts about the Asen being New King, but on the other hand it's hard to not believe kirin's word as it comes straight from the Heaven. Sougen in turn is worried at first when he hears that Taiki's bodyguard, Kouryou ran away, but is assured that Saiho's not alone and has a few loyal subjects by his side. With all the preparations the Gyousou's escort group of twenty led by Risai consisting of Oukou, Kiro, Kyoshi, Houto and the others, depart with their flying beasts towards Ba Province. *** Sometime before the battle in Bun Province takes place Asen decides that they need someone to take over the post of the governer in Hakurou as the current one has become the useless puppet and in the end the choose Keitou. The man himself is clearly unwilling to go as he's got his post as deputy governor and works for Taiki, but as he goes to his liege, kirin calmly explains that he was the one to nominate him for the provincial post, as he needs the trusted individual to take control of Bun Province and if necessary provide help for Risai and her companions. Hearing that Keitou gladly agrees and leaves some time later with charm against jisen provided by Yari. The deputy of the former Minister of Heaven, Kakei, takes over his post and for the time being everything seems to work in favor of Taiki, as after the uproar of Chouun and Shison's betrayal most of the courtiers come to conclusion that Ansaku being Chouun's direct subordinate makes him suspicious enough and kirin being the creature of mercy is the safest political option. That it, until the report from Bun Province comes stating that Yuushou's forces were defeated by the local rebels. Asen discusses the situation with Ansaku and Shukuyou but there's not enough information, but suddenly Ukou barges in and after dismissing the courtiers Asen gets his report about finding out Gyousou and him witnessing Yuushou's defeat by the unknown army. The next time Asen talks to the ministers the second message delivered from Bun, states that the one leading the resistance is Risai. Hearing that Asen is clearly surprised that she survived that long after being found guilty of assassinating the king. He also muses what if he met her earlier and knew her better, because as far as he's concerned Risai wasn't Gyousou's followers. They went together to Mt. Hou and then it turned out that she wasn't to be the king, later became king's general and, in Asen's experience this kind of relationship quickly turns to hate, at least from the person of the lower rank. But then it's all in the past and nothing will change it so Asen proceeds to order the ministers to prepare for the new purges as rebels cannot run freely. He also keeps Gyousou's escape secret and wonders what he would do if the roles were reversed coming to conclusion that the most efficient thing to do is heading west and trying to get hold of the castle or two. *** With Risai and Gyousou having departed for En, Sougen relocated his troops to Rokou as not to endanger Seisai new residents that have nothing to do with the resistance. While he and Yuushou discuss other generals' (Eishou and Gashin's) whereabouts and come to the conclusion that with all the gathered forces they finally stand a change against Asen's army, Sekirei comes with the report from Tonkou that Bun provincial office prepares for the purges. And not having enough information, Sougen believes it'll be safe to leave Rokou in the hands of the surviving rebels and focus on finding other place. Then Seishi tries to convince Kyuusan's group to escape, but Kyuusan says that too many of his comrades died the awful way and he can't forgive Ukou's man and he along with some of his man want to fight against the usurper's army. *** On their way to Ba Province Risai's group leads Gyousou to the ruins of Tetsui so he can pay his respects to its fallen citizens. After that they come upon the burning village and a little group of rebels stealing what they can. On Gyousou's demand the group goes to help free the citizens who were supposed to burn to death, as the revenge for standing against the rebels who in the past often cam by the village to demand not only food but also hostages with villagers later finding the missing people's bodies discarded along the nearby valley. Now that they all almost died the citizens are desperate and ask for the travelers' help. But the group needs to move on and doesn't answer their plea. In turn one of the residents who recently lost his mother to the rebels suspects that it might involve certain traveler who disappeared right after the residents got freed… *** Not so long after that Asen gets information that someone witnessed person resembling Gyousou making their way through the south-eastern parts of Bun Province and immediately plans to send the air cavalry unit to go there and investigate. But in the meantime… Kisen, who was supposed to go meet with his superior and other officers to discuss the placement of the remaining Yuushou's soldiers, is suddenly summoned by Asen to the Inner Palace. The man is overjoyed at the possibility of finally properly serving his lord but before he goes there, he sends a message to Santou explaining that they won't be able to go together to the meeting with Hinken. Santou is surprised but goes to the meeting alone. There he learns that Hinken knows nothing about it and starts to worry, but tells his superior and himself that it's good that Asen finally acknowledged them and that there's no doubt that soon Hinken will also be summoned. On the way back to his quarters Santou visits Kisen's place and finds him there, but the man's eyes are strangely empty and he acts as if he doesn't recognize Santou. Not that he can do anything about and is forced to leave Kisen be. Impatient Ukou happily goes to Asen's side who finally thought of summoning him, but as he gets there the unpleasant awaits. It turns out that Asen doesn't plan to let him lead the forces that are suppose to hunt down Gyousou and his companions. Ukou is furious but as he sees who is there to replaces him he just laughs, but quickly becomes enraged when Asen pulls out the charm to get hinman out of him, for this was the source of Ukou's remarkable fighting abilities. Though he doesn't have much time to hate Asen as suddenly Kisen draws his sword and cuts him in half. The Kisen himself is still somewhere there inside and can't help but feeling sad and lonely when Asen orders him to take the air cavalry, kill the rebels and bring Gyousou back alive. Some time after the cavalry departs Asen is visited by very displeased Taiki who demands the explanation about using the forces under his command without him at least getting notified about it. Asen bluntly answers that he did it to hurry up Gyousou's return and get rid of the rebels. When at first Taiki questions his decision and then tries to leave, he's stopped dead in his tracks by Asen asking if he's intending to contact new governor of Bun Province to get him to aid Gyousou's escape. When Taiki doesn't answer, he pulls out the charm and explains that even if Keitou were already in Hakurou, he wouldn't answer Taiki's call, because the charm he got from Yari is useless. Taiki is visibly shaken and asks how can Asen even do something like this to his own subject. To this Asen says that Keitou is no longer his subordinate and that he doesn't care. Outraged Taiki reminds Asen that actions such as these can result in Heaven forfeiting their blessing, to which Asen just laughs bitterly and says that he knows the whole 'New King' thing is a lie and that he's been simply playing along to see what Taiki would do. For it was simply impossible that Taiki would choose him. For once the idea itself is ridiculous as Asen's had too many things that disqualify him as the candidate for the throne. And what's even more important Taiki is suppose to be unable to fulfill his role as the envoy of Gods ans Asen cut off his horn sealing his powers. Which means he can't hear the Heaven, can't sense the king's aura and can't make anyone a monarch. Truth to be told, Asen barely managed to stop himself from killing younger Taiki, because of the hatred he felt for him for choosing Gyousou to be a King. And after that Taiki's disappearance spared him from having to interact with kirin, because of the necessity to keep both Taiki and Gyousou alive to stop the next king from taking throne from Asen. But then Taiki's returned and announced that Asen was to be appointed as a rightful leader of Tai. Asen couldn't believe but accepted the fact that Taiki has willingly became his hostage and never planned to aid him in case of any problems. But as it turned out he had to act because Taiki got involved if conflict with Chouun and started to gain real support among the courtiers. Even when Taiki managed to pledge himself to Asen he still didn't believe. Taiki was too calm and too convinced about his abilities to make things work the way he wanted them to. And the fact that unflappable kirin was finally forced to show his emotions makes Asen really, really happy. So he tells Taiki that the only thing he can hate if the Heaven itself. For it made him choose Gyousou as the king. When Taiki comes back to his mansion he's confronted by Minister of Fall who tells him that according to Chouun's statement his deputy, Kakei, has been arrested for her part in the attacks against Taiki. Taiki's own protests are ignored and he's informed that due to the suspicion of more people being involved with the traitors and to keep Saiho he and his retainers need to be confined within the mansion and no one is suppose to enter or leave without Asen's approval. Thus Taiki becomes the prisoner in his own home. *** As the royal army is making their way towards Rin'u Sougen and Youshuu plan their own movements in case they are attacked After discussing all of the options they come to conclusion that even if the royal army move against them the provincial one is just there to pose as a threat, since it's clearly impossible for Asen to organize such a great hunt as the last time since this time he's about to be enthroned and can't risk enraging the Heaven. So they split up their troops, escape from the vicinity of Mt. Kan'you, gather back and the try to get a hold of a most available castle. But the most important thing is to no engage in battle and to save their strength for later. As the royal army arrives in Rin'u the message from mysterious informant in Hakkei Palace is delivered stating that Asen sent the air cavalry to take Gyousou captive. At first Sougen is unsure whether to believe this letter or not, but is quickly convinced that they can't ignore it, even if it's fake and have to arrange for someone to go and warn the group traveling to Ba. They manage to gather twenty five soldiers and hurry for the border between the provinces, but they don't have much time and even if they'll make it in time, it's may not be enough to stop the enemies from abducting their king, as Sougen suspects that also the provincial army of Ba is ready to make its move. *** Five days after helping with the fire in the village of Nanshou, the king and his entourage finally make it to the provincial border that's just beyond the mountains ahead of them. It won't be long before they see their friends in Touka… But as they travel through the dense forest one of their scouts suddenly flies back and informs them that there are strange shapes in the distance not so far behind them. At first Risai can't believe but the only think they can do now is to hurry to the border hoping that the lose their pursuers on the mountain trail. But just as they start to run, the wild beasts attack them. One of them is especially problematic as it can call over the others with its cry and being small and agile is very hard to kill. Kiro ends up getting killed by of the beasts and Oukou urges Risai, Gyousou and the others to go ahead. They run but the enemies catch up with them and only thanks to Hi'en's reflex and Gyousou's help Risai survives the brutal attack of the soldier she recognizes as one of Asen's followers. As she and Gyousou make it further, they quickly talk about the time when Ukou attacked the king and how the trained beasts were also there and how unexpectedly hard Ukou was to fight. Gyousou suggests that it might have a hinman but their discussion is interrupted by the sudden appearance of the soldiers just ahead of them. Kyoshi's mount gets hurt and the man falls to the ground. As they try to get to him on of archers aims his arrow at Gyousou. For a second Risai is terrified that it's too late to save him, but suddenly Kisen jumps between the archer and the kings and takes the shot for him, as he blearily remembered something about needing to keep Gyousou alive, but even as he succumbs to his wounds he's not sure what it was all about. Oukou that was left behind if found by the group sent to help and together they try to make it in time to help Gyousou and the others. As Risai gets attacks once again she can't locate Gyousou, then after a moment she sees him going for the fallen Kyoshi. Houto and his friend are closer and try to get to him, but their beast gets attacked by the enemy and they also fall to the ground. As Houto runs for Kyoshi and is one step from grabbing his hand another soldier appears and strikes him with the sword. As the man falls to the ground, shocked Kyoshi hears Houto shouting at him to run. Then someone grabs him by the arm and it turns out to be Gyousou, who then gives Kyoshi his sword and practically puts him on Rakou's back telling him to hold on tight and orders his suugu to fly away. As the young priest and Rakou disappear into the night, Gyousou calmly kneels over dying Houto, not even trying to run from the soldiers closing in on him. Yes, he hears his followers crying for him to go, but something in him breaks and he knows that they probably won't make as the enemies just keep coming. Too many people have already died for his sake, too have suffered because of the empty throne. Suddenly he's extremely tired and simply just can't take it anymore, seeing his people getting decimated… Risai tries to make to Gyousou, but is stopped by the only other man left alive, who tells her to go back to Sougen and report the situation and he will go after Gyousou. Then he runs not giving her enough time to answer. The next moment Risai sees Oukou coming with help and tells him that the provincial army attacked, but they can still make it in time to save Gyousou. She wants to go with them, but they convince her not to as Hi'en is badly wounded and won't be able to hold the fast pace for to long. Noticing that Risai urges them to go, but begs them not to go through Ken county as Zui'un survivors are out there and if they're found by Asen's army the local citizens will be left without the people to make medicine for them. *** In the meantime, Sougen gets the news from Hakurou that the provincial army left the capital for the western parts of Bun. At first the gathered are confused but quickly deduce that it probably means that the army succeeded in capturing Gyousou and that one provincial army plan to deliver him to the other to finally get him over to Rin'u or somewhere nearby for the royal army to take him to Kouki. Then Risai suddenly appears and confirms their suspicions. For a moment they grieve for the dead, but have no time to spare, as if they want to get Gyousou back, they'll need to recapture him before the provincial army meets with the royal one. And so they start to plan their next movements wondering where the transfer would probably happen and where to attack. Back in Hakurou Tonkou warns Houyou about the local government movements and urges her to be very cautious. Then he goes back to the provincial castle to wait with the other officials for the arrival of the new governor, who might be able to help the resistance since in Kouki he'd been serving Taiki and probably knows the situation. Everyone gathers in the courtyard to welcome the next head of the province and when the man suddenly arrives Tonkou is shocked and devastated when he notices Keitou's unresponsiveness and his soulless eyes… At the end of the fourth month the great battle takes place in the central part of Bun Province, but even as the resistance desperately fights to reclaim the captured Gyousou, it fails and Risai and Sougen's troops are forced to fall back. They are also attacked by the local people furious about the rebels destroying the crops they worked so hard to get ready for the upcoming spring. Nothing gets to them as they throw the stones at 'the criminals', because the rumors of Asen's enthronement spread quickly and the only king they now is in the capital city of Kouki, not caring about the one being transported by the army marching through the land. As they try to escape Kyuusan gets badly wounded and Risai trying to save him urges Kenchuu to go ahead while she herself covers them. But as the group of enemy soldiers suddenly attacks again, thrashing Hi'en throws her off its back and Risai desperately tries to fight them, but as the last of the man comes at her fallen Hi'en is suddenly there covering the general with her body and only seconds later the beast grabs her owner and flies away from the battlefield. All Risai can do is to watch her forces being chase by the enemy troops, while knowing that her loyal mount is heavily bleeding from the wounds it took for her… As Sougen finally makes it back to Seisai, he heads to the mansion where the wounded are being looked after and tries to get Kiitsu's attention when he notices that the young priest has just finished taking care of Kyuusan, who unfortunately didn't make it. Sougen asks about Risai and as Kiitsu regards him with a grave expression he suspects the worst, even though he never saw Risai getting seriously injured. But Kiitsu assures him it's not Risai he's sad about. It's Hi'en. And when Sougen walks into the courtyard he sees Risai sitting in the corner with Hi'en's head on her lap. When he comes closer Risai starts talking about how Hi'en had always been there for her, be it Kei, be it Mt. Hou. And how Taiki always looked forward to see Hi'en… And how her precious friend protected her. They sit there for the moment in silence stroking Hi'en's already cold fur. Then Sougen quietly thanks the beast for saving Risai this one last time and slowly walks away to plan yet another attack on troops transporting Gyousou to Kouki. And they do try to get their king back, but still don't succeed. Many of them die and despite their efforts the cart transporting Gyousou makes it to Zui Province, now heading straight to the capital city. And the ones that were suppose to join the resistance are forced to go into hiding as the news about royal army destroying the rebel forces spread through the country… The newly appointed governor of Bun Province ordered his troops to get rid of the resistance and the army stormed the city of Seisai. Some of the residents made it to Rokou, but almost half of those who stayed behind didn't survive. Allies from Sekirin and Koutaku also didn't make and about two thirds of Risai and Sougen's combined forces didn't come back from the battlefield. Now Risai stands in front of Yotaku's grave trying to cheer up grieving Kiitsu, who hates the fact that he had to evacuate with others to Rokou. What's more Houyou's estate in Hakurou was burned to the ground along with almost all of its residents. As the survivors talk to Tonkou, who fled the provincial castle after the new governor ordered the purge. He tells them that the only thing that can do is to escape, otherwise they'll be destroyed. The army stands at the province border and no one on a flying beast will get through to Zui. It's time to give up, at least for some time. Since there's no way that Asen will spare Gyousou and will most probably stop Taiki from choosing another king, the surviving resistance troops can only wait for the new kirin to be born and when it chooses the next king, then they can avenge their fallen leaders by killing Asen. But for now, there's nothing they can do. Risai and her companions can't simply accept that it was all for nothing. Not after sacrificing so much in their last attempt to free their king. If only they knew then what they know now… *** Meanwhile Ansaku is trying to convince Asen to accept his plan and to his relief 'the New King' likes it. They need to make a show out of Gyousou's abdication and for that they need audience. For that it's important to spread the false information about Asen being the true king whose place Gyousou took by force all those years ago, having wounded and used the young kirin. And after Asen confronted him about it Gyousou fled the capital and made Taiki disappear thus making it impossible for the rightful king to ascent the throne and rule the country, which consequently fell into chaos. And for that Gyousou has to publicly apologize to Tai citizens. Ansaku also emphasizes that it's dangerous to let Gyousou leave the kingdom at all and the best way to get rid of him is to incite the crowd gathered in Kouki to kill him 'the usurper'. Just provide them with the stones and have someone throw the first one and others will follow seeking justice for all their suffering through all these years. Simple: the people get their justice for all those years of suffering and Asen gets Gyousou dead. What's more, not by his own hand… Some time later the messenger comes to Taiki's mansion announcing that the strict protection is no longer needed as the traitor were executed. Not that it makes its residents as they are still confined here… Juntatsu cannot believe that Kakei could have been guilty, but Taiki says that the truth doesn't really matter anymore. He also proceeds to tell the others about Asen's plan concerning Gyosuou and and he's suppose to be there too. Ganchou laments that his king will die dishonored and hated, as the Gyousou would never put his own life above kirin's, if it comes to Asen threatening him with taking Taiki's life if the king won't submit. And Gyousou would have no way to tell if Asen's telling the truth or not. But Taiki assures Ganchou that he won't let it happen as he intends to get to Gyousou and bow before him in front of the all gathered people. This might throw both people and some soldiers into confusion, giving Gyousou the chance to escape. But as Ganchou ans Yari thinks about they come to the conclusion that Taiki being black kirin may take away the impact needed to move the crowds, since in everyone's mind the envoy of Gods always has golden hair which makes them stand out thus they're instantly recognizable. On the other hand, Taiki with his unusual, but still black hair won't be instantly recognizable to anyone as no one from the crowd knows what he really looks like. Also, how is Taiki even suppose get to Gyousou in the first place as Asen plans to surround him with guards. To that Ganchou and Yari promise to do everything in their power to make it possible for Taiki to get to Gyousou in time. Taiki himself really wants believe that his actions will be meaningful, but as he thinks about it, he begins to realize that it probably won't change anything. Because Taiki has no idea where Gyousou is being kept and that he won't be able to see him before the judgment day comes. There is nowhere to get information from and what's more, there will be no help coming from the outside, as news about resistance's defeat is spreading like a wildfire and it's hard to believe that Risai or anyone else survived the purges. So the only person able to do something is Taiki himself… But Asen is also planning to let any of the remaining rebels inside the capital and get rid of them if they do anything like trying to save Gyousou himself or at least his honor. The royal army will be ready and as the show starts, the soldiers will close all the gates making it impossible for anyone to escape. So Taiki decides to at least try to save Juntatsu's life and thus sends him with the letter to Touka in Kou Province, also asking him to take the beast which Taiki himself came with to the Royal Palace, because he promised to send it back… Not that the letter will change anything. Taiki writes to the citizens of Touka to thank them and apologize for every trouble he and his companions caused along the way… *** The most people gathered in Bun decides to travel to Kouki, to pay their respects to their leader. They know that there's no coming back from that and that most of them, if not all, will die while trying to do something for Gyousou. They won't let him be killed by his own people like some kind of traitor. They'll at least try to free him to let him die like a warrior he's always been. Risai tries to convince her followers to leave for En as they're not bound to sacrifice their lives, but no one wants to even hear about it. Oukou won't let his general go alone this time, Seishi's been too long with Risai to suddenly leave her side and Sekirei has always admired Risai as not only great general, but also as the fellow woman in the army, who's always been her hero and the evidence that even in the environment dominated by men women also can become successful. So does Sougen and Yuushou's subordinates. Even Kenchuu and some of the rebels plan to join them. In the end those left alive prepare to depart for the capital city where they'll die with their liege… *** The day before planned abdication Yari watches the crowds coming into the capital, while also noticing how tightly guarded the whole place is. As she reports it to Ganchou, she also confirms that there's no way that someone would be able to save Gyousou and get him out of the city. Dejected Ganchou leaves the mansion for a moment and then Taiki tells Yari how he's already given up and that since he already caused so many deaths and couldn't do even one useful thing for Gyousou, he at least intends to show everyone who the real king is, since he may be useless as kirin, but he's never regretted choosing Gyousou. Then he thanks Yari for everything and asks her for one last favor: to help him get to Gyousou during the abdication. Yari seems slightly overwhelmed by it and leaves without a word to find Ganchou and inform him that Taiki plans to die tomorrow together with his king. When Ganchou protests, the girl says she agrees that there is no other way to save Tai. As kirin's death will place the fate of the kingdom in Heaven's hands and it's the only certain way defeat Asen. Yari also says that she intends to make Taiki's wish come true no matter what… *** At the same day Risai and others make it to Kouki silently following the great numbers of people who's come here to see the traitor for themselves, while Risai and others came to save him, even if only in metaphorical sense. They stay the night at the local temple and early next morning go the great courtyard in the public part of the palace where normally celebrations like coronation take place. Now there stands a big platform with one post in the middle. People start gathering for the show that's supposed take place exactly at noon. Risai sees people like Sougen, Seishi and together they try to get as close to the platform as possible, for they won't have much time to free Gyousou before soldiers step in. When the bell rings the plaza becomes quiet and the Palace doors open to show courtiers gathered inside. Risai is shocked to see that the blinds next to the main throne pulled down as it means that Taiki's there to watch. Then the side gate opens and the executioner brings out the traitor. Gyousou followers hold their breaths as the prisoner makes his way through the crowd and is finally being chained to the pillar. Seishi can't stand this sight and barely stops himself from acting, when suddenly there's a huge commotion among the courtiers… *** Just before the Palace doors open everyone takes their respective places. Taiki just beside Asen's throne, surrounded with guards and weaponless Yari at his back. The girl carefully observes those closest to her as the show starts, when Taiki's gaze suddenly flies toward the close side gate and after a moment Gyousou is brought in chains in front of the crowd. The second he's placed on the platform and Taiki abruptly stands up, grabs the arm of the nearest guard, while stealing his blade and stabs him in the gut. Then he storms from behind the blinds and runs down the dais with Yari by his side. No one knows what's going on and the courtiers fly into panic, while Taiki hurries through the crowd towards the platform and Yari gets rid of every person getting in their way. The second the soldiers turn toward the Palace Risai and her companions attack and the whole plaza falls into chaos as people have no idea what's happening. When Risai notices Taiki she runs to him. Taiki throws himself to his knees before Gyousou apologizing for his long absence. And when he looks up he suddenly can't speak while his king laughs warmly commenting on how his Kouri is all grown up. Taiki bows before his kings, but as Ansaku shouts for soldiers to stop him, as there's no way that the real kirin could have killed a man, he's almost dragged away. 'The rebel' saves him and when Seishi tries to free Gyousou and another guard tries to stop him Taiki lifts his stolen sword and injures the man who stumbles back only to be cut down by Sekirei. As bloodstained Taiki stands there trembling Gyousou takes the blade out of his hand while saying that he's done enough. And when their eyes meet, Taiki suddenly transforms to his beast form… Everyone is struck dumb when they see the jet-black creature with the magnificent horn bowing before 'the criminal' and nuzzling up to him. When dazed Asen just stands there and watches, Ganchou and Rousan comment on how they can't believe at what's happening and Rousan says that it's Taiki's win as he managed to hide the fact that his horn has healed for such a long time. In the meantime Gyousou's followers gather around him and Taiki and when Gyousou climbs onto Taiki's back and the group tries to make it through the panicked crowd only to find the city gates closed. But then they open and there is Eishou coming to their aid with his and Gashin's troops. As they get away from the capital Eishou and Gashin explain what they've been doing for the last few years and how Risai and Sougen's actions in Bun made it possible for them to gather in secret and get ready to strike. Gashin also tells Risai and Gyousou that thanks to one lost suugu and its rider they found in Ba Province, they managed to send the messenger to En Kingdom with Gyousou's sword and Taiki's false passport tied to it. They also managed to get a hold of one provincial castle where the envoys from En already await Gyousou's arrival and that En warships are moored just beyond the country border. Then suddenly Taiki faints from the blood poisoning and the one to save him is Keito, who was most probably brought there by Rousan. As some of the soldiers want to go after her transformed Taiki stops them by saying that despite everything that happened Rousan is most likely their ally, to which Yari says nothing. The battle continues as the royal army goes after them but the runaways are able to fight the army off and get to their temporary base, where Gyousou meets with Shouryuu and Rokuta, who are very happy to see him and gladly offer their help. The next few days are the celebration of reunions while also grieving the ones died or has gone missing. Risai reunites with Kaei and they both talk about how Ganchou managed to free tortured Seirai and get her to safety. They also discuss Taiki's condition which gradually worsened and they had to take him to Mt. Hou for healing and that he'll probably be able to come back within the next month… Away from all the commotion Kouryou finds Kyoshi and they talk about returning to Touka, as it's Kyoshi home and Kouryou promised Enshi that he'll come back to her side… *** A few weeks later in the middle of the summer Enshi is working with other women gathering the flowers for the medicine. She wonders how Kouryou is doing since she's heard about Gyousou's return and him getting a hold of one of the castles in the northern part of province. She hopes that maybe one day Kouryou'll come back, not knowing that this tranquil and quiet area will soon become the stage to another uprising… *** And from the Kingdom Chronicles we learn that in the end of the tenth month Gyousou manages to strike Asen down and finally reclaim his throne with Taiki by his side… THE END BACK

[enevi]

Shirogane no Oka, Kuro no Tsuki - Volume Three

Welcome back to Hakkei Palace where winter reigns and living ghosts grow in numbers, whereas in Bun Province the chilling wind blows away the last vestiges of hope... Or does it? With the winter descending upon the capital city of Kouki disquiet comes over the residents of kirin household. The feeling of both mental and physical unease grows among the servants as Heichuu and Tokuyuu (along with Juntatsu, one of the two Bun'en's assistants delegated to take care of Taiki) are becoming more and more distant in both metaphorical and literal sense, the former being suddenly transferred to the Inner Palace and the latter simply disappearing from his room just the other day. Kouryou is also one of the affected ones with perpetual headache and exhaustion making his doubts going into overdrive. He also really doesn't like the fact that Keitou was nominated as the deputy governor and Taiki not speaking his mind doesn't help the situation. As if sensing all this Taiki takes Kouryou for a walk around the garden. The day is cold so it's unlikely that their talk will be overheard by someone uninvited, but just in case they leave Yari to watch for any possible eavesdroppers. Like Shouwa for example, who is spying for one of the ministers, Risshou and whom others already suspect as she's not really good at that as opposed to her actual job as a caretaker. They take their seats in the garden pavilion by the little waterfall and the long and heartful conversation starts. Kouryou voices his doubts about Keitou's appointment and as Taiki explains about his decision, he finally agrees, that indeed, there was no other choice as the rest of the courtiers are either uncooperative or incompetent. Or both at once, like previous deputy Shison who was not only dismissed but also place in the house arrest by the Minister of Fall. As Kouryou thinks that is all, the Taiki, as if knowing that this talk is long overdue, finally opens up to somebody. He shares his doubts and Kouryou's not only surprised but also shocked that at the very beginning even Risai was under Taiki's suspicion as he had no way to know if it really were the general's genuine efforts and wishes that brought him back home. Or maybe it was Asen plan all along? Maybe he had known something about Taiki's worsening condition in Hourai and wanted him alive so he used Risai and Taiki's relationship as a guise to get other kingdoms to the work for him? Taiki had no way to be sure, but still had to take that leap of faith and if by any chance it turned out that Risai was really working for Asen, then well… It would have been that both Gyouso and Taiki were basically screwed (his words, not mine). Fortunately, it all turned out well and as Risai did not pursue Taiki after his sudden disappearance with Kouryou, kirin could take one big sigh of relief and finally start trusting his companions. Kouryou included. Especially in Hakkei Palace, where almost everyone has to be seen as their enemy, for it's really easy to trust the wrong person and consequently fail, as far as their mission is concerned. As of now Taiki trusts no one apart from Kouryou. And with more and more people disappearing it's difficult in the long term to find someone useful and trustworthy. Also as so many years have passed, they had no way to know anything about Gyousou's whereabouts. In case he was kept somewhere in the palace, someone had to get in and investigate. And who better than Taiki himself whom others couldn't really harm, if they wanted to keep the throne empty, for if they lose their kirin, the fate of kingdom goes back into Tentei's own hands and all that's left for the subjects to do, is to wait for the new kirin to be born and king to be chosen when the former matures enough to do it. What's more, the lie about the new ruler would also serve the purpose of taking the Court's eyes from Risai's search. As it all depends on kirin's instincts and sensing the king's aura, no one can verify the truth before the factual ceremony of ascension takes place. And it is known that kirins can't escape their nature and no say in the choosing, they also aren't likely to lie about it (or something like that…). Nevertheless, Taiki does acknowledges the fact that he really underestimated the whole situation and did not expect it to be so complicated. Thus, the current troubles. Kirin is also quietly surprised at Kouryou confessing his doubts about the 'New King' lie, and apologize for to reassuring him earlier, for there was no occasion for them to speak openly as there was always some else around. He also says that his gaze often strays, but not toward the Inner Palace, but toward the north. And that’s where Risai is and presumably Gyousou, too… At the same time, as someone constantly interferes with his plans, he's intending to pay Asen a surprise visit. The faster, the better - like tonight, for example. Of course, Kouryou doesn't want to hear about Taiki going alone, but then is seemingly convinced that going together is no the best idea, as there is no law about kirin being forbidden from going to any part of the Royal Palace (King's private quarters included, whereas Kouryou being a simple bodyguard wouldn't go unpunished, if found. And as the access to Inner Palace, where Asen resides, is heavily restricted and as (thanks to Seirai telling him in the past) Taiki does know how to use the secret shortcuts, it’s better for him to go alone… So as Taiki sneaks out his mansion under the cover of the night, it’s no surprise that Kouryou actually plans to follow him, but at the last moment is stopped by Yari, who tells him that she is more suited to do it as she did it a few times before and was never caught. He agrees and it ends up with Yari shadowing their willful kirin. As she goes after him she can't help but compare his current personality with the stories she heard from Ganchou. Stories about kind-hearted, innocent and intelligent child full of curiosity and respect for his surroundings. On the other hand, the grown up version is overly cautious, distrustful to the point of being paranoid, secretive and calculating. Also prone to scheme and telling a lot of lies. Far from typical kirins, to be sure. And so much more interesting. As she sees one of the marionette-like servants watching she also hears a suspicious a dove-like sound. And discovers a beast perched just beneath the building rooftop, jisen - a bird-like youma that has the power to suck out people's souls out of their bodies. Yari did suspect that something like this could be responsible for the state of the palace servants and clearly disturbed she quickly runs after Taiki. To Taiki's surpise he finally does find Asen, but not in the main part of the Inner Palace, but (quiet incidentally, to tell the truth) in one of the inconspicuous building in the eastern palace. In the dimly-lit room Taiki watches him seating all alone and humming the certain well known song about the gruesome and sad fate of the foot soldier, and wondering if this is the perfect reflection of Asen's unwillingness to take up the mantle of leader. The man himself is fairly surprised to see Taiki in such a place, but quickly recovers and becomes his normal distant and sarcastic self. For a moment they talk, but as Taiki points out that he doesn't think that Asen rebelled against Gyousou purely out of envy and spite, Asen quickly cuts him off and asks what is he really doing here. To that Taiki says that he wants Asen to step up and actually rule the country, for its citizens need the government help to survive the winter and to restore at least some of the court's basic functions. He also requests for Seirai to be released and returned to his side, but fed up with his advisor's audacity Asen summons his guard to transport Taiki back to his quarters and says that nothing can resume without the documents that Seirai supposedly stole. As kirin is brought back to his mansion, enraged Chouun barges in demanding the explanation and for Taiki not to do anything without consulting him beforehand. They get into a serious argument and everyone suspects that from this moment the slighted minister will be openly hostile toward already hated Taiki who in turn is absolutely calm and shrugs it off. As does Asen throwing out the letter from Chouun in which the minister demands him to take a clear actions against Saiho. At the same time he notices that another one of his puppet has just become useless and needs to be dealt with. For they are quiet easy to make but much more difficult to keep usable for the long time. They may have the right spells to somehow weaken the symptoms of jisen-induced 'illness', it still spreads, albeit much slower, though it transforms infected person into a living corpse that can be easily manipulated. Just a moment later Rousan invites herself in and while they have a 'friendly' chat about this and that, Asen starts reminiscing about his rivalry with Gyousou and how it brought upon his fall from grace. How it all began and how became a living hell for Asen himself when quiet friendly rivalry changed into desperate race to outspeed his shadow. For people said they were so much alike, started comparing them and finally came to conclusion that Asen was Gyousou's shadow and not the other way around. And then when after disobeying the king's orders Gyousou resigned from his post and went away, Asen came to realize that their rivalry might had been strictly one-sided and that all his excitement and respect were never reciprocated in the first place. That to Gyousou he had never been a challenge he'd look forward to. It hurt, but so be it, his nemesis left the royal courts and would just be forgotten with Asen's humiliation and hate. But to no avail, for the king himself demanded Gyousou's return and the man did come back eventually. And it just deepened Asen's already deeply-rooted hatred for the man. But he did manage to keep a lid on his emotions, to stop them from overflowing. Then Gyousou was named a new king and all Asen could do was to curse his fear of getting this ultimate confirmation of Gyousou's superiority. But then he had a talk with Rousan who told him that it wasn't really preordained that it was Gyousou who was supposed to be king. As kirin is the creature of instinct and could only sense the aura of the person not their exact personality and as Asen and Gyosou were so much alike, then who knows. Maybe if Asen had decided to climb the Mt. Hou at the same time as his rival, then maybe just maybe he would had been chosen. That gave Asen some ideas and while he was sure that Rousan might had just been feeding up his delusions for her own purposes he could stop thinking what if. Now, in the hindsight, Asen thinks, it might had been because Rousan, who counted herself among the most trusted of Gyousou's people, started to hate kirin for taking her place as the side of her liege. Not that Rousan confirms his suspicions. Instead she tells him that even though she has deeper feelings for their lord, her curiosity and the need to know everything about the relationship between rulers and the Heaven trump it all. And as no one would give her this knowledge on the platter, she had to find for herself… She also tells Asen to follow Taiki's advice and start ruling, because Heaven might become impatient and take back Its hard-won blessing before he realizes it's too late. In the meantime humiliated and outraged Chouun who was ignored by his liege one time too many, proceeds to make Taiki's life even more difficult and appoints previously dismissed Shison as the minister directly responsible for Saiho's well-being. Everything to make him regret going against the Prime Minister and getting rid of a troublesome subordinate at the same time. For if Shison does unwittingly interfere with Taiki's plan out of misguided feeling of obligation to Chouun for 'saving' him, he will be punished for his mistakes and no one will connect his actions with chousai himself. As Chouun trashes his own office in the fit of rage, his assistant, Ansaku, quietly observes while making the plans of his own…

*** Meanwhile in Rin'u Risai withdraws from the investigation and spends all her time in temple stables seeking consolation by Hi'en's side. But then Kenchuu brings invitation from the Sekirin Temple head priest herself and Risai knows she can't reject it because the monastery is normally closed for common people. There they're welcomed by the leader, elder woman named Mokuu, and by her side they see a few residents from Rouan. Among them is the village elder and the boy Risai and the others met by the grave of the unnamed soldier. As it turns out, not long after the group left Rouan, Kaisei left for the Temple to report the villagers' alleged crime and as they went after him to and also made it to Sekirin, Mokuu thought it wise to invite other people involved. So the chief deputy the proceeds to explain everything. About half year after King's disappearance the residents of Rouan did indeed find a wounded soldier, who eventually turned out to be one of Gyousou's supporters but at that time every city and village guilty of harboring the fugitives was burned to the ground, so they had to keep quiet about it. The years went by, but the man never fully recovered as he recklessly forced his body to get better and repeatedly fell ill. At the end, when his condition started to worsen rapidly he lied to Kaisei and refused to take the medicine because it was too expensive, so his caretakers had no choice but to secretly put it into his meals and the boy mistook it for the poison. As the soldier died in the end and not long after that the two deserters made it to Rouan and described Gyousou's appearance they then came up with the story that if any of the kings supporters came to search for him they would tell that it most probalby had been him. On the other hand, if the followers of newly elected king suddenly arrived, they were to tell them, that there had not seen anyone suspicious. Everything to protect themselves from eventual accusations. And while Seishi's furious, Risai says that she does understand their way of thinking and doesn't hold the lie against them, emphasizing how it is the sages' duty to think about the king, country and its people and that there's nothing strange with commoners prioritizing their own survival. Then Mokuu reveals that there's something really suspicious about the announcement of Asen's ascension, because her usual informant (the one separate from her 'spy' network) sent her the message. She doesn't know who this person is, but their predictions and warnings always come true and the bird used to deliver those letters is an expensive and very rare one that someone can't simply buy as it's mainly by the courtiers. Therefore, there is still hope for Gyousou's followers. When Mokuu withdraws to her quarters and the people from Rouan leave, Risai is then approached by the woman (named Shunsui) she rescued from the bandits not so long ago. As it turns out, both she and Kenchuu belong to the group that survived the purge of Tetsui, that right after the uprising started searching for Gyousou's whereabouts in the vicinity of Mt. Kan'you after the attack on him and the cave-in that happened not long after the incident. And as gathering so much people would have only encourage unwanted suspicion, they went to Sekirin for help and under the guise continued their investigation. And it still continues as Tetsui citizens will never forget or abandon their savior. Unfortunately they haven't found any trace. To that Risai answer that if Gyousou knew, he would be grateful for the effort itself. On they way back to their base, the group discusses the need to move somewhere else, as they already have too many suspicions eyes looking their way. Risai takes Hi'en and flies to the city of Sokou, where Kyuusan resides. When there she asks him for help and he agrees to provide them a new safehouse in Seisai where no one will bother them. As they prepare to leave Rin'u, Kiitsu unexpectedly visits them. The frail woman accompanying him turns out to be the reason why the local Temple wasn't so eager to help them. Just around the time of Gyousou's disappearance woman was one of the refugees illegally going in and out of the Kan'you mine and one day witnessed something she and her friends weren't suppose to see. Sometime before the attack on the king the unknown soldiers had brought two suspiciously looking and gigantic wooden boxes into the mine. And the things inside were moving and causing the soldiers some distress. Not long after that the cave-in happened. The cave-in preceded by something that sounded like an unearthly howl of some kind of beast. Then some of the surviving soldiers came out running and saw the refugees. The unwanted witnesses had to be dealt with and the woman was the only survivor... When Kiitsu takes the woman back to the hiding place, Risai and Seishi shadows them as it seems that the men that followed the group back from Houyou's mansion still haven't left. They corner the men and after some questioning learned that Risai and her companions where suspected of trafficking the refugees since it's happening all over the province. People are being taken to the city capital by force to increase the number of the soldiers in the capital. And as they get no real training they are meant to be a cannon fodder during the eventual war. When they finally talks things through the men ask for some time to contact Houyou and promise to go back. *** In the meantime the capital city of Kouki is the witness to the personal tragedy of newly appointed Shison who no matter how hard he tries, can't seem to please kirin he's supposed to care for. For Taiki does not appreciate any of his gifts and stops any kind of Shison's initiative to make Saiho's mansion more livable place… As annoying as the whole situation is, Taiki can't just shut him out since it would probably result is Shison wailing and prostrating himself in front of the main gate. But even this whole performance can't distract Taiki from his plans to sneak out again. This time to investigate the heavily-guarded place around the gate leading to the eastern part of the Inner Palace. As they finish discussing their plan and go back to the mansion they're met with very displeased and agitated Juntatsu who begs Taiki to give him any kind of explanation, since he's not very keen on getting punished for the things he has no knowledge about. And with Heichuu and Shouwa mysteriously disappearing he's just too afraid and confused. As Taiki hesitates Yari assures him that it's ok to trust Juntasu as she got rid of every jisen in the mansion. Then they learn the truth about the beast's effect on people and how Yari suspects that even if Asen somehow got his hands on them, he couldn't and still can't fully control them and that results with random people becoming puppets and to hide this fact, Asen just has no other way but to make them his direct subordinates. Such a great number of infected people clustered in one place also results in the appearance of the miasma that pulls in even more beasts. And so the situation is gradually becoming worse and worse. As Yari and Kouryou leave Taiki for the meantime, they talk about the whole situation and how it's impossible to bring back some of the already infected people. The girl also explains that it was most probably Rousan who helped Asen, as she, just like Yari herself, comes form the tribe of people living out there in the Yellow Sea and undoubtedly knows a big deal about youma and their habits. Yari also makes Kouryou aware that the morality of the people living in the wasteland of Mt. Hou is so much different than that of normal kingdom's subject. Meaning they feel no special kind of obligation or loyalty toward king or their kirin and Yari herself decided to serve Taiki because she thought him interesting enough to follow. And so once again Taiki and his guards leave the mansion under the cover of the night, this time using the system of underground tunnels which Yari knows pretty well. On the way to the eastern palace the three of them get their hand on some weapons, as it is certain that they will meet some guards. As Yari and Kouryou engage in battle with the soldiers Taiki is force to seek the place alone and finally comes upon the prison cells and one of turns of to hold kirin's long-lost governess, Seirai, who was charged with stealing country registers and consequently imprisoned and tortured for information. But the cell is closed and there is no key in sight. Taiki spies the guard probably holding it and desperately tries to convince himself that he will be able to kill if necessary. He already did… Even if it was him just desperately trying to find his place in that other world, for there was that one and only person who made him feel safe and welcomed… He's also different than any other kirin and was never truly conditioned to abhor violence and blood like the others of his kind. After all, kirins do kill, just not by themselves. They use their servant beast to protect themselves or others close to them and the same time avoid dirtying their own hands. Nonetheless, it's still a murder. So killing someone directly shouldn't be that much different, in the first place… As Taiki proceeds with his plan and almost finishes of the guard, Kouryou and Yari come to his aid and he's spared from having to do the killing, but at the same time Kouryou criticizes him for hesitating, because the man would have died anyway, as he failed to stop the intruders and that usually means getting executed. And while freak-out Taiki tries to process it all, they have no time to spare, therefore he has to go see the prisoner. Then he's literally brought to tears when he sees the state Seirai is in. But malnourished, dirty and repeatedly tortured woman is strong and her spirit has not been broken. She's so happy to see her lord all grown up and well… She's also eager to share the information she possesses. Information which Asen's interrogators haven't been able to get out of her for the last seven years. She urges them to send someone to Ba Province, as that's where General Eishou's retainers hide. Taiki's desperate to get her out but Seirai understands that it's not possible, because if they did, Asen would know it was them. So Kouryou and Yari have no choice but drag their grieving charge back the way they came from. But as they make their escape, it occurs to them that if someone is suppose to get out of the Palace it has to be now, because later there'll probably be no way out. As Yari assures Kouryou that she will take care of Taiki, the man himself hesitates but his master urges him to go as it is the easiest way to actually get to contact Eishou with Kouryou being one of his former officers. So Kouryou leaves them and makes his way to Ganchou who'll help him get out of Kouki. Meanwhile Taiki and Yari go back safely to the mansion and the girl's wondering how the whole situation will turn out as they most certainly be questioned about tonight's happenings and the only person to save them from direct accusations is Taiki himself. Next day around noon, they are visited by Keitou and the one accompanying him is Shukuyou - the Minister of Summer. As they politely make their enquiries, Taiki calmly answers, that yes, he's aware of his guard disappearing and was just commence a search as lately Kouryou seemed quiet unwell and as Heichuu and Shouwa went and disappeared, Taiki suspects that the same thing must have happened to Kouryou and is really worried about him. After obtaining no useful information, Keitou and Shukuyou are readying to leave, when suddenly Asen shows up after clearly having taken a walk along the secret passage hidden in the gardens. Taiki calmly welcomes his king and urges him to take a seat and while at first they talk rather normally, Asen finally snaps. He grabs kirin and brutally throws him to the floor demanding Taiki to pledge himself to the King here and now. When Juntatsu tries to intervene he's stopped and as Keitou move in front of him to defend the servant from Asen's wrath, Taiki simply bows and swears an oath to his New King… And then kirin is swallowed by darkness. It hurts, hurts so much. Like his head is about explode. But he can make it. He has to, for so many were suffering when he killed them and he has no right to complain. No, it doesn't hurt at all… As the pain finally stops and Asen's leaving, Juntatsu kneeling over Taiki notices the blood in kirin's eyes. And still, it’s nothing, for his body was made by the Heaven itself and really, it doesn't hurt at all. As Gogetsu and Boushuku were lately transferred to guard the entrance to Taiki's mansion, they are equally confused as they are happy when they see Asen coming out. Especially the latter as that's the first time he actually sees his Kings with he own eyes. Gogetsu goes to escort his liege back to the Inner Palace and has a short conversation with him, during which he notices that Asen seems strangely dazed and clearly disturbed by something… After Asen goes back to his quarters, Rousan invited herself to accompany him and together they talk about what happened. The minister is surprised and somehow disappointed that Heaven actually seems to approve of Asen, but at the same time she doesn't hide her displeasure about Asen actually flying into rage after someone uncovered his shameful secret. The secret being imprisoned Seirai, who still successfully resists Asen's interrogations. So frustrated and furious Asen had to take it out on somebody and found his target in Taiki. Strangely enough it doesn't make Asen like Rousan any less, as she's the only honest person around and he really appreciates that. Thinking back Asen wonders about how his initial plan failed. How even if he never planned to kill Gyousou in the first place, how actually close it came to it, when the man entrusted with the mission to imprison the king went one step too far. How for all this time Asen's had no idea about what's was about to happen. Because he had to separate the king from his kirin and with Taiki by his side, horn sealed and unable to locate Gyousou, he was supposed get the support of the ministers. But Gyousou had disappeared somewhere below the pile of stones and Taiki was swept by meishoku to the other world… How close it came to utter failure… Fortunately for Asen both Gyousou and Taiki somehow made it and where nowhere to be found. But it still didn't give Asen the sense of peace he'd longed for. There was no escape from Gyousou as he became the shadow sitting on the throne of the rightful king. He had to go and make it so all of the evidence of Gyousou's existence were destroyed. So he mercilessly hunted down the king's supporters… And still it didn't make him feel good enough… As Asen bitterly laughs and points out that Gyousou would laughed, if he was here, Rousan says that Asen's wrong and that Gyousou was aware of him this whole time and never ignored him. For they are really much alike, both Asen and Gyousou. It's just that even long before Gyousou ascended to the throne, Asen had already lost himself in the pursuit of glory while serving the former king. And Gyousou never did… *** After a few days of no word, Risai and her companions suddenly get the message from Houyou, who's inviting them to her villa in the city of Hakurou. When they get there they discover that indeed, the Fu family, for quiet some time, has been gathering not only vagrants and refugees but also deserters from Gyousou's army. She was also getting ready for the inevitable fight and has produced a great amount of weapons of all kind. Along with flying beast and provisions to feed the small army she's been housing in her villas all around the country. She also explains that with the province's leader affected by the strange malady, it's been fairly easy to get away with so many things as long as one did nothing openly suspicious. Houyou also arranges for Risai to meet the official from the Ministry of Winter responsible for covering Houyou's tracks. Tonkou turns out to be even older that Risai suspected as he's been in his office long before since the formed king ascended and and has a great deal of knowledge about the happenings inside the provincial offices. He also emphasizes that with a person of the sufficient rank (meaning someone like Risai) it could be more that possible to lay a siege to the castle and actually take control of it. And if only Gyousou was there, gathering even more people and marching toward the capital, would be even more possible. But as he's not here, everything is still ready. They just need some to take the lead. Risai politely declines the offer, explaining that she wants to focus on finding their king and Houyou answers that they'll gladly wait. *** In the meantime the New Year came and went and as before no celebration took place, Chouun expects everything to go as planned. For he's sure that this time he'll actually be able to Ministers to agree to restrict Taiki's movement even more. To his surprise he finds the Throne Room already occupied and Asen sitting on the throne with Saiho by his side. Asen then proceeds to announce his incoming enthronement, criticizes the work of the court and demanding immediate improvements. Back in his office Chouun rages and makes a plan to make the others work for him, as he's not to blame of any of the mistakes made and Ansaku agrees, while privately commenting on his incompetence. Not long after that Boushuku is forced to let uninvited guest into Taiki's quarters and is calmly assured by Gogetsu that Ganchou is the most welcomed, which seems to be confirmed by Taiki's reaction. For kirin clearly moved and close to tears as he kneels beside his retainer even going as far as laying his head on Ganchou's shoulder. That unexpected display of affection shocks Boushuku as he's never suspect kirin to be so humane. And just a second later Taiki appoints Ganchou as his new bodyguard. Then he invites the former general to his mansion and they have a long conversation about Ganchou having no choice but stay at the court when the ones close to him were taken hostage, about being demoted and being looked down upon while living in the small quarters and taking care of Gyousou mount, Keito, being his only purpose… Fortunately his retainers were spared the same fate. Ones like Santou who was taken in by Hinken and appropriately looked after by him and Kisen. Santou himself being glad and thanking Heaven for making it possible for Ganchou to take his new post at Taiki's side. *** At the same time Risai and her companions with the addition of Sekirin priest, Sodou, brainstorm about possible routes Gyousou could have taken while escaping Mt. Kan'you. Finally they settle on going north, even if Gyousou taking the difficult and extremely dangerous and pilgrim trail seems very unlikely. As Risai along with Kyoshi, Seishi and Sodou leave for Mt. Takuou, Houto and Yotaku make further preparations for the move to the city of Seisai. The infamous trail turns out to be even more dangerous and exhausting than Risai expected but they finally arrive at Koutaku and along the way they find the evidence of soldiers coming through. As they make their way through the crowded city Risai is unexpectedly approached by a few men and recognizes one as Kiro from Sougen's corps. It turns out that a few years ago the general and his men made it to the local temple and are hiding there to this day. As a big religious centre, the city of Koutaku, turned out to be a good hideout as, the influence of the priests is bigger than the kingdom officials'. As Risai is reunited with her friends they talk about everything that's happened to this day and to her dismay she discovers that for all these years Sougen's people have searched for Gyousou and found nothing. Suddenly though Risai thinks what if their King never made it out of the bowels of Mt. Kan'you? What if he's still there? And as they discuss the possibilities they come to conclusion that it's almost certain that Gyousou's still there. For there is one youma big enough to fit into that secret wooden box and one that has the power to move the earth itself with its howls and it's called ririku… So, the preparations begin. They have to gather enough people and get rebels to help them dig through all the rubble to may a way and possibly locate Gyousou. *** For his part, Asen always knew that something could go wrong when he chose the scum like Ukou, to do the job. But as the man was vile and cruel, he was also extremely efficient. Asen was also terrified of the possibility of his men rejecting his plans. Was terrified of becoming even bigger failure than he already was. So he planned the whole thing himself and with the help of Rousan got his hand on the pair of boar-like ririku powerful enough to cause the cave-in. Unfortunately they was no way to test their abilities and the dying scream of the beasts turned out to be too much, for all the things Asen was planning. Yes, he wanted to imprison Gyousou in the bowels of Mt. Kan'you but with the way to actually to oversee the entire situation. But the cave-in had much bigger scale than he wanted and Gyousou fell into the abyss… Even after losing more than half of his men Ukou came back with the disgusting smile on his face, fiercely proud of almost finishing Gyousou off and getting the job 'well done'. For all this time Asen's live in fear of not knowing anything and expecting every day to be Gyousou's last. With time he cut himself off from his retainers and withdrew from politics holing up in the Inner Palace. Now he wonders if this has been Gyousou revenge, all along… *** Somewhere in the Bun Province there's abandoned village with only one family still living in their old home. Once a month the man takes his little daughter to the riverbank and together they make a small offering of the basket filled with little things. An offering for the dead. The girl doesn't understand as they already have almost nothing to eat and with her sister starving to death not even two months ago… Still the girl is somehow happy because, her father resuming the tradition of monthly offerings means that he's getting better. Even if just a little bit. The man apologizes to his daughter for his selfishness and tries to explain that it's all for the person who long, long time ago made sure that the citizens of certain city survived their king's wrath. For the descendants of those people never forgot about Gyousou's part in saving the city of Tetsui… And as the basket full of offering drifts right into the dark caves of Mt. Kan'you man has no idea that his gifts are being delivered to the right person. *** Gyousou himself made some unforgivable mistakes… He'd known that he'd most likely get into the trap, but he couldn't ignore the possibility that runaway chief of Tetsui really needed his help. He also thought that it might be his chance to get the actual prove that Asen was planning something, because he obviously couldn't get rid of the man basing on his suspicions alone. Unfortunately he gravely overestimated his own abilities while underestimating the opponents who almost got him killed. Never before had he felt so powerless and desperate. Then there was a cave-in and long days of total darkness. At first he wasn't able to even feel his limbs wondering if one or two or all of them were gone. Then came the pain and the with it the knowledge. His arms survived the fall almost intact but both of his legs were broken. Fortunately there was no one to hear his screams when he had to set his bones. When he was finally able to move he begin to explore the cave and while he found some things necessary to survive a few tunnels and there was a flowing water nearby, he couldn't find any way out. And he knew he must had fallen really deep since somewhere above his head was the hole that let light and rain in. But it was so far away. Despite all that he never gave in to fear and despair as he was the King. He simply couldn’t. There were also a little things that gave him strength to go on. Like an occasional food offerings that made it possible for him to survive al those years. There was also one big and clear sign that he still had the Heaven's blessing. For one day he found a single youma in these depths. And for all the time spent in the wasteland of the Yellow Sea, he does know how to catch a suugu. *** One day officer Yuushou is summoned in front of the King and entrusted with the mission to bring back the fallen one. After hearing that order and seeing Ukou, responsible for all this mess, Yuushou can't help feeling betrayed by his liege. On one hand he know that if any of the retainers had known at that time about their master's plan they would have tried to stop. On the other hand Yuushou wished that Asen had more faith in them and gave them that forbidden order instead of giving it to the vile man like Ukou. Still, he has no way but to prepare and go to Mt. Kan'you. Not long after, agitated Keitou arrives at Taiki's mansion and begs kirin to release him from his duties. Surprised Taiki says that he force the man to stay, but he at least want to know the reason for this sudden decision. As Keitou breaks down he says that he can't no longer serve the man like Asen. That getting away from his lord, made him see how he fooled himself and tried to convince himself that there must have been some good reason for Asen to actually get rid of Gyousou, as Keitou himself had nothing against him. And as the situation has become clear he can't just stay here and work for the usurper. Taiki for moment hesitates but then calmly explains that Asen's not the king and that's why he'll need Keitou assistance when the time comes. Meanwhile Ansaku is quietly observing as his superior still deludes himself that nothing is his fault and that he actually can get Taiki's forgiveness for going against him so many times. Because as the situation stands, after Asen coming back to politics and giving direct orders more and more courtiers started to come to Saiho's side as he finally was able to actively start helping the struggling citizens by opening provincial storages and giving the refugees to earn some money by helping with the rebuilding of the city. And so the little bit of sunlight actually reached the Kingdom of Tai through the dense winter clouds… BACK

[enevi]

Shirogane no Oka, Kuro no Tsuki - Volume Two

Welcome to Hakkei Palace where living ghosts roam the empty corridors and nothing is as it seems. The envoy of Gods, the creature of mercy - kirin - has returned to reclaim his place at the side of the New King. But is his lie good enough to make the court look the other way as the search for the rightful monarch continues? At last, the time has come for the kirin to face the person responsible for his injuries. As Taiki and Kouryou are being escorted through the empty corridors and make it above the clouds, they discover that many parts of the palace destroyed by meishoku were never rebuilt and left to rot. What's even more strange is the state of many servants who seem soulless marionettes with no will of their own, their escort being one of them. As they are nearing their destination, suddenly the outraged Chouun shows up with his entourage and tries to stop them from going any further, but as it was ordered by the lord himself the minister can't really do much about, so in the end all of them head over to the Throne Room. After they enter the empty hall and courtiers take their seats, the tense silence falls and Taiki just stands before the dais and looks up trying to see through the lowered jewel blind that are obscuring the view of the throne. Finally Asen speaks up, asking Taiki why did he even come back in the first place. Kirin spins the story about having felt the aura of the king and recognizing it as Asen's, but the man himself remains clearly unconvinced and agitated Chouun demands better explanation. Then eerily calm Taiki goes on how he couldn't and still can’t come to terms with it, as he has no say in who the Heaven chooses as the next ruler. He also calls Asen a traitor and a murderer right in front of everyone. To that Asen just laughs coldly, sarcastically commenting kirin's honesty. But Taiki doesn't stops there elaborating on how he was at first scared of Gyousou, but then understanding the meaning of that fear and how it corresponds to the hate he feels for Asen. Taiki's performance is so convincing that even Kouryou starts to have some serious doubts. It also seems to make sense for most of the ministers but is still not enough as far as Chouun is concerned. But then as he starts to demand more evidence the most unexpected person makes their entrance. Here comes Rousan, who Risai thought to be imprisoned or dead. And to Taiki and Kouryou's shock the woman herself seems well enough and completely unbothered by all of the recent happenings. Turns out, she was the one who disobeyed Chouun orders and told Asen about Taiki's return. What is even more disturbing is the fact that Asen clearly trusts her and listens to her, as the assembled discuss the possibility of the unsual precedence - appointment of the new king while the former one is still alive as indicated by the still living hakuchi). She's also the one to suggest what might be the simplest way to check if the kirin really speaks the truth - wound Taiki. Because if Asen really is the new king, then there is no way that Taiki's beasts will attack him. And while others loudly protest this idea, Asen comes down the dais and without hesitation draws his sword on kirin. He asks if he's really the new King. As Taiki responds with 'unfortunately, yes' Asen proceeds to attack Taiki by slashing his arm. Everyone's shocked and surprised but completely calm Asen just accepts Taiki's return and orders someone to take care of him. Then as if nothing happened he sheaths his blade and withdraws with no concern for his Saiho's wellbeing. Kouryou rushes toward his injured liege who has slumped to the floor and is clearly hurting. When Taiki is being taken care of by the surgeon Kouryou is wondering how long this whole farce can really continue. Asen might have officially reinstated Taiki to his former position and may even want to celebrate his ascension (as some of the other usurpers had done before him) but there is no way that he'll get the Tentei's blessing. And what then? But as he looks at the Taiki's pale and exhausted face, Kouryou can't make himself to question his master's plan right one. As surgeon leaves, Royal Physician, Bun'en, barges in and promptly falls to his knees in front of kirin and is close to tears when Taiki recognizes him and his assistants. They exchange greetings and talk for some time, but Taiki is soon made to rest because of his wounds. As he recuperates, Kouryou and Bun'en discuss the bizarre state of palace affairs. The Court is in impasse as notoriously absent and surrounded by strangely unemotional retainers Asen doesn't do much in terms of politics and is usually holed up in his quarters that are off-limit for almost anyone and with no way to reach him the ministers can't make any important decisions. The truth is that most of them don't even try in fear of displeasing Asen and consequently losing their rank or getting even more severe punishment. Bun'en also suspects that one responsible for servants' strange condition may be Rousan as she clearly has shady tricks up her sleeve.

*** In Bun Province Risai and her companions prepare to investigate Mt. Kan'you and decide that the most easiest way not to stand out to much and be relatively safe from local rebels is to disguise as pilgrims who are often seen in this area. Having made it to the city of Sokou they are taken captive by the bandits while trying to save one of the real pilgrim from being robbed. The band's leader, Kyuusan, is very interested in their suspicious moves as they were seen wandering in the area. The man is smart and quickly deduces who his guests may be after their local guide, Kenchuu, comes to their aid and tries to explain the situation. They get into an argument about the actions of the rebels and in the end Risai concedes that they may have some good reasons for doing what they do. Since it's hard not to see things from Kyuusan's point of view, especially after hearing the story of his life and of the things that happened during the uprising that subsequently led to Gyousou's disappearance. Kyuusan's family became vagrants when he was only thirteen and not only the one of his younger sisters but also his mother were of weak constitution, the life was hard and most money went to medicines. Then suddenly he lost two of his family members, almost one after another - his sister became ill while taking care of mother and other sibling and died shortly after that, whereas his father lost his life in mine accident. Thus the boy was left to care for his remaining family and at sixteen was taken in by local rebels who were and still are in control of the extractive business. Kyuusan quickly rose through the ranks and at twenty already had high position and no longer after that he started running his own group, still connected to the main one but sufficiently independent. As the new ruler came to power rebels became worried about their current position as it seemed that Gyousou would not look the other way as they went on with their business. Thus tried to think about the way to make their actions less illegal. But then one of the groups came down from the mountains and took control of one of the cities making even more enemies along the way. Especially among the locals. The army was mobilized and took care of the problem but then another city was attacked and the situation continued to the point where the King himself decided to come forth when the city of Tetsui became endangered. Not so long before that old acquaintance of Kyuusan asked him a favor to run people off Mt. Kan'you. Kyuusan thought it strange and already suspected that that some up the ladder was behind the whole uprising but couldn’t refuse. And as Gyousou's definitely gone missing in the neighboring area Risai hopes to find some traces. After talking things through Kyuusan offers his help and takes them to Mt. Kan'you where they meet the man name Chuukatsu with whom they try to come up with the most probable scenarios. One of them being refugees illegally excavating in the shut down mine, finding and taking care of the wounded Gyousou, as it is pretty unlikely that heavily wounded man could have made it out of the mine on his own. Or if he did, someone must have found him. Unfortunately as they walk through the dark corridors into the depths of Mt. Kan'you they find nothing and go back to Rin'u empty-handed. And as they leave, the first snow starts to fall. The winter has come to Bun Province. *** Meanwhile in the capital city of Kouki Taiki is frustrated at his inability to proceed with his plans to aid his struggling subjects. As the governor of the Zui Province he's supposed to have certain privileges, but as his deputy, Shison, and Chouun seem do everything to interfere his every initiative and ignore his requests (like having one-on-one meeting with both Rousan and Ganchou or getting any information about imprisoned and probably tortuted Seirai, who was accused of stealing from the royal treasury), he remains powerless. At the same time the ministers have their own set of problems, main of them being Asen's unwillingness to claim his title or make any particular decision in regard to politics. Thus they have no choice but to consult with Taiki. Right on cue comes the new revelation from the Heaven. One which makes Chouun finally respond to Taiki's summons. Gods decided to appoint the new King but before they give him the power the current one has to abdicate to make the position open for Asen. Kirins can be wayward creatures to be sure and their loyalty lies solely with their people, but both Chouun and Kouryou are slightly unnerved by Taiki's cold and apparently dismissive attitude toward his liege's inevitable fate. It makes chousai wonder if Taiki can even be called a proper kirin as he in no way resembles his meek and agreeable predecessor. Rousan and Chouun go over every instance when change of the monarch can occur- from King straying from the Way resulting in kirin being stricken with illness, through regicide, to abdication. And seem to come to the conclusion that it must be completely voluntary. Which may pose some problems as Gyousou was forcibly ousted from power. And even if Asen never intended to kill him in the first place, he's also unlikely to share any information about Gyousou's current whereabouts. An information he certainly possesses. Thus a stalemate continues… Asen's idleness doesn't escape the notice of his faithful retainers, be it his direct subordinate such as Hinken and Kisen or ordinary guard like freshly minted Boushuku or much more experienced Gogetsu. All are as happy, as they are confused and worried. At the same time Taiki's newly appointed aid in the person of Keitou - one of Asen's subjects - tries to do everything in his power to help young governor make things work. Even as Taiki and Kouryou remain openly hostile and reluctant towards him, which doesn't surprise him but at the same time he genuinely wants to do something for his country. He sets out to search for the right candidates for Saiho's protection detail and at first goes to his old friend, Yuushou who also comments on Asen's current doings and how it was rivalry with Gyousou that kept him going and after the latter's defeat their lord just burned out and lost his motivation to go on. *** Back in Rin'u Risai and her companions search for any kind of new lead and seem to get in the form of new testimony from people who saw the group of vagrants transport a suspicious looking cart not longer after the uprising. As it may have something to do with the rumors about the refugees finding impossibly big gemstone back in the day the group heard from Chuukatsu they decide to investigate it. At first they don't seem to find anything useful but the residents of Ginsen behave very suspiciously and no longer after Risai and others leave they are attacked by unknown assailants, but those seem to be so obviously untrained and desperate that Risai decides to let it go for now. Later they reach the ruins of the village they passed by earlier that day and surprisingly find them already occupied by one of the local traders and his companions. As they prepare for the night Risai notices the unusual behavior of trader's guard and as she confront the man, he turns out to be the one of General Gashin's retainers, Seishi, whom Risai once met during the journey to Mt. Hou all those years ago. The trader found injured Seishi and sheltered him for all this time and now has no problem with letting him and his apprentice Yotaku, assist Risai and co. with their search. He also explains that indeed there were refugees transporting precious gemstones but were attacked on their way and slaughtered and that the all that is left of the village that took advantage of the situation are the ruins they are currently staying in. So, once again the group goes back to Rin'u empty-handed and once again they go to investigate possible place were refugees could have stayed in the past. This time Chuukatsu is their guide as they research long abandoned neighborhood of Mt. Kan'you only to find another ruins and remains of the people who desperately tried to survive and didn't make it. *** Somewhere in Bun Province the boy was orphaned once again, as the master he was taking care of has just passed away. The boy is grieving but at the same time blames the man for breaking the promise he made those six years ago. For the two of them were supposed to take the throne back from the monster residing in the capital city of Kouki. They were supposed to go together and all is lost because the master is no longer among the living… *** The winter has finally come to the capital of Tai. Strange apathy seemed to have descended upon the residents of Saiho's isolated mansion and Kouryou doesn't know if it has something to do with the weather or is it Asen's doing. He's also worried because lately kirin's gaze suspiciously often seems to wander in the direction of Asen's quarters. What’s clear is the fact that him and the others desperately need some rest. Fed up with his current situation Taiki decides to make his position clear and summons Shison just to dismiss him from his position as deputy and give it to Keitou instead, who's extremely honored and doubles his efforts to help Taiki. Also after speaking to her liege Yari agrees to be appointed as Taiki's another personal guard, which Kouryou thinks is a good thing because as kind of mercenary the girl doesn't owe allegiance to any of the corrupted ministers. And finally prompted by Taiki's words Chouun decides to publicly announce that kirin has returned bringing the news of Heavens giving their blessing to Asen. *** The hunt for missing gemstones and refugees continues as Risai gets the information about the suspicious activities taking place in one of the stores affiliated with one of the biggest and the most renowned gemstone businesses belonging to Fu family whose many shops can be found anywhere in the kingdom with home base in Hakurou, the capital city of Bun Province. Desperate for any information the group goes on journey only to find out that indeed the head of the family, matron name Houyou, has some shady dealings of her own, but it most likely involves illegal production of weapons and has nothing to do with the missing king… Just as Risai and others go back to Rin'u they are visited by the trader who saved Seishi. The man remembered that one of the more remote villages, Rouan, whose residents were lucky enough to escape the country-wide purge of Gyousou's allies, always issued for more medicines than they apparently needed and lately asked for the delivery of weapon. Hoping that maybe just maybe finally they're getting closer to finding some answers Risai and co. impatiently awaits for trader and Seishi's return. A few days later they are visited by disturbed and agitated Kiitsu who tells them about Asen's apparent ascension. Shocked and surprised Risai and Kyoshi go to the nearby Sekirin shrine whose residents always seem to have proven information, while Houto goes to check in with his trader friends. Unfortunately as they make their inquiries someone overhears them and people starts asking questions much to the priests annoyance. After the moment the chaos is temporarily contained and the priest reluctantly confirms that the rumor seems to be true. At the same time Seishi brings back a devastating news. As it turns out the residents of Rouan were indeed harboring a noble fugitive. Man whose wounds were so grave that is was impossible to survive if he wasn't the sage. Man who never revealed his real name in fear of involving the innocent. Man with white hair and crimson eyes. Man who died at the end of the fall… Confused and even more shocked Risai is confronted with Kiitsu's obvious belief that maybe Taiki purposely left them behind as they might not be able to accept the painful truth. Utterly devastated former General calculates the dates and comes to the conclusion that maybe Kiitsu is right. And then starts to wonder and despair. About Gyousou's supposed death and Taiki's lack of faith in her and consequent 'betrayal'… After calming down and thinking things through Risai decides to visit the Rouan village and ask about the dead noble. There after hearing everything from village leader, the group goes to see the grave for themselves. There they meet the boy, Kaisei, who took care of his dying master. He tells them that he suspects that what eventually killed him were the rumors about people searching for someone. Those people being Risai's group, of course. And that the villagers afraid of the government retribution, poisoned the man in secret, to get rid of any damning evidence. With this he leaves in hurry and Risai and her companions are left to wonder, what if. And now, that the all hope seems lost, they face impossible dilemma - if the news about Asen turns out to be the truth, will they be able to accept the fact that traitor and murderer is the rightful King? And that it means that the country desperately needs him and there's no way anyone would forgive them for even trying to kill him? And what about Taiki himself? Deep down inside Risai desperately wants to believe that her King is still alive… BACK

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Shirogane no Oka, Kuro no Tsuki - Volume One

Welcome to Tai Kingdom where terror and hunger reign. The winter is coming and this time many more than before may not survive the cold season for granaries are empty and outsiders are not welcome anywhere. The country is dying slow and painful death.

 Enshi was born in Jou Province and married at eighteen. Had two children. Three years ago her hometown, like many other places, was burned down for harboring the fugitive and many did not survive. Among them was her husband. Survivors were taken in for the winter by the neighboring village but later they had to fend for themselves. So the young widow left with two children to roam the country in hope to find a new place to call home. Last winter she lost her four year old daughter to the cold and hunger and couldn't even bury the girl herself because the frozen ground was too hard to dig into. The one to help her was the man named Kouryou, the wanderer like herself.

 It was almost one year ago and now the three of them: Kouryou, Enshi and her three year old son, Ritsu are roaming the Ten County in Kou Province formerly known for many beautiful temples. Most of them were destroyed for going against the new government, the most famous of them being Zui'un Temple, burned down for questioning the mysterious disappearance of their liege.

 As the night is falling three weary travelers try to find a place to stay in for the night in the small village of Touka, along the county highway but are driven away by the young shepherd as many villages close their gates for the outsiders not wanting extra mouths to feed. Disappointed but relatively calm the wanderers go on to find the place good enough to camp.

  Then in the nearby forest they are suddenly attacked by unknown assailants. Kouryou tells Enshi to run and starts to fight the attackers. She does but slips in the dark and almost falls down the cliff just to be saved by the young man hiding there. Meanwhile the mysterious woman with a flying beast comes to Kouryou's aid and together they are able to win the fight but not for long as the shepherd lurking in the dark takes the young man hostage trying to save his fallen comrades.

  Unexpectedly it turns out that Kouryou knows their savior and it's General Risai, meaning that the one being threatened is Taiki, the Kingdom's missing kirin. Enshi is shocked that her companion not only is used to fighting but just a few years ago was part of the Royal Army. Also, the young shepherd's name is Kyoshi and he's one of the surviving priests that were taken in by Touka's residents after Zui'un Temple massacre. Later it is explained that Enshi and Kouryou were mistakenly attacked because one of the villagers saw two people of flying beasts and they panicked thinking that the government officials discovered survivors whereabouts and were trying to silence the alleged spies.

  Misunderstanding cleared up everyone goes back to the village to rest and talk about everything that happened till now. Kouryou and Kyoshi find out how Risai and Taiki returned to Tai and made to the one provincial palace but as it was too tightly guarded they never made it inside and had to look for the place to get under the Sea of Clouds. Then Risai remembered about the abandoned mountain in Kou Province and so they came here trying to make it to the part of Bun Province where Gyousou was last seen. In turn Kouryou tells them about his last meeting with the King in the city of Rin'u and how he disappeared after he and twenty five of his personal guards left his troops to do 'something' and never met with the troops that were later going the same way. And how he and his superior decided to go dark after getting Risai's message about Asen's betrayal and then getting order to pursue her as the alleged regicide. They made their arrangements but somewhere along the way their communication network broke and Kouryou was left to roam the countryside without any information about his allies. Kyoshi also tells his story about the escape and coming to the Touka village. And how Zui'un survivors never have stopped believing and praying for the safe return of their rightful lieges as the government under Asen's rule almost destroyed the country that is barely hanging on. Their hope doesn't wane even when Taiki admits to having no kirin powers as his horn was cut off, basically being powerless and defenseless. He also tells them that the easiest way to deal with the problem is to kill him as it will result in Gyousou's death (wherever he is) and the birth of the new Tai kirin. Of course no one wants to hear that and everyone assures Taiki that his return alone is miracle itself and will give people the hope they desperately need.

  After planning their next steps and getting enough rest Taiki and Risai leave Touka for Bun Province accompanied by their flying beast (Hi'en and unnamed suugu) and Kouryou and Kyoshi. Just before their departure Enshi and Ritsu come to say good-bye to Kouryou. She know she's supposed to be happy because after years of roaming around the country they finally found new place to live, but deep down she grieves the loss of the companion and protector whom she came to love so dearly during their journey.

  ***

  Meanwhile somewhere in the hidden cellar in Bun Province the orphaned boy takes care of the man who tried to but couldn't save the boy's father from wandering youma and after man's death took the poor lad in. Thus the boy became his son. His warrior. Now the man lies ill, barely conscious and always singing the old and creepy song about the tragic fate of the foot soldier, whose ultimate fate is to be left to crows after dying on the battlefield.

    As Taiki and his companions travel to Rin'u they meet their guide Houto, whose everyday job is to deliver special medicine made by Temple priests and other goods to every citizen in need. Thanks to his wide connections the group can travel undercover and doesn't have to worry about places to sleep. As they make their way to Bun Province Risai and Taiki come face to face with the dire state their homeland fell into and how hopeless their own situation seems to be. Asen rules with iron fist and every resistance no matter how small is punished by death. The people abandoned by their ruler struggle every day just trying to survive and have no time to worry about the king said to be death, let alone thinking about rising against the new government.

  One morning as Risai prepares to leave the city of Sekijou, she discovers that Taiki is gone. Confused and terrified she confronts Kyoshi who tells her that kirin woke him just before the sunrise and announced that he has no time and that Heaven is telling him 'to go'. Doesn't know where to, but feels that it's his duty to obey the will of Gods. And that the others have to continue to search for any clues about Gyousou's whereabouts. Taiki had wanted to go alone knowing Risai would never let him go but Kyoshi begged him to at least let Kouryou accompany him as a guard. Kirin agreed and together they left. At first Risai feels hurt and betrayed but then admits that Taiki was right, because even as knows that the kirin is all grown up, in her heart he still is a child she remembers him to be. And that she has to make peace with the thought that a the envoy of Gods sometimes he has to do the things that others don't understand. But then she starts to worry as Taiki left behind the travel pass (passport?) provided by Youko and has no way to prove his false identity.

    After a few days of silent treatment Kouryou works up the courage to finally confront Taiki about their destination as they're clearly heading toward the capital city of Kouki. And that's not a good place to be. As they rest in the inn after dinner kirin finally admits that the story about the 'will of Heaven' was I lie and yes, Taiki wants not only to go to Kouki but to gain access to Hakkei Palace. And he plans to tell a lie. Lie about Asen being the new King of Tai to regain his position as King's Advisor and use his influence to aid struggling subjects before the winter comes. Taiki also warns Kouryou that the only way to stop him is to tie him up because if left alone he would just mount his suugu and go without his guard, so Kouryou surrenders and so the next day they leave for the capital. When his companion asks how are they suppose to get in, to which Taiki answers "through the Front Gate". Which tells a lot as there are five city gates and the main one is reserved only for the King and his kirin. And so they do.

  As they get arrested and are escorted by the guards Kouryou notices that surprisingly the city hasn't change a lot during his long absence but he still feels that something's not right. His suspicions get confirmed when they do get into the palace but are placed in a prison cell-like room but slightly better furnished. At first Taiki is calm and reassures Kouryou that he expected this kind of treatment as no one sane would just believe just like that that suspicious black-haired lad is the kirin himself. But after a few days of no information he starts to worry. And when they finally convince the servant taking care of them (man named Heichuu) to tell them something they find out that situation in the Palace is much more complicated than any of them suspected.

  First of all, Asen is not running the show and nowadays he spends his time holed up deep within the Inner Palace and rarely shows up. And that in practice the real person in power is chousai Chouun (former Minister of Spring) and his comrades. What's more strange is the fact that no one among the servants knows anything as it's not clear who gives what orders, which are frequently contradicting and so on. The good example being Heichuu himself - getting suddenly transferred and being told to 'take care of the person claiming to be Saiho' with no further instructions.

  As Heichuu describes it "everything is divided and the Court lost its unity". Which comes as no surprise as we see how worked up the courtiers became after Taiki's arrival. No one knows how to check the validity of the visitor's claim as most of the people who knew him before his disappearance are no longer part of the Palace staff. Finally after the long search they find one person - servant named Shouwa, who was one of the maids taking care of Saiho. And after meeting with Taiki she confirms that indeed the young man is the missing kirin of Tai. Unfortunately, the council suspects that either Taiki himself is lying or someone tries to use him against Asen, thus they make no effort to inform him about his new 'position'.

***

    As courtiers are debating what to do the young girl named Yari sends courier bird to someone and then walks up to the man sitting in stable in front of the stall which Keito - Gyousou's mount is in. The man turns out to be Ganchou who was presumed to be missing. There she informs him about Taiki's return and the revelation he brought with him. Ganchou is shocked and doesn't want to believe it but at the same fears the worst - that the rightful King is really dead.

  The others wondering about the current situation are two of Asen's subordinates - Kisen and Hinken. The former was always proud to be the General's man and is worried that Asen withdrawing from others' company is his way of saying that they failed him. Also he always thought that it was Asen who was meant to be the King. Hinken being sort of older brother figure tries to console him.

  ***

 When Risai and her companions finally make it to the Rin'u they head over to the local temple where the priest already knows the purpose of their visit, so they make it their temporary base. At least in the beginning, because it turns out that formerly renowned and beautiful temple transformed into the refugee camp housing the large numbers of people with no place to go. And as any sort of gathering is strictly forbidden the head priest doesn't want to invite unwanted attention from the province officials, therefore he warns Risai about proceeding cautiously because the safety of the people depending on them is temple's main priority. So the group finds the other place to stay as not to be associated with the Temple just in case something went wrong. And in spite of warnings, the young priest who was appointed as their guide, Kiitsu, starts bringing over them some of the refugees that may know something about King's disappearance. As it turns out he's right, because one of them, the young man, tells them the story of his and his brother pursue to see the marching army during the uprising in the Bun Province that took place six years ago.

 As the men climbed the rocks at night to get to the place with a good view they lost their way and accidentally saw Gyousou riding the narrow mountain pass with his guards only for the guards to come back some time later but in less numbers, some of them clearly wounded and with no King in sight. After hearing man's story Risai and other debate about going after their only the only evidence of Gyousou's presence - the bloodstained belt that was supposedly dropped in the vicinity of Mt. Kan'you where precious gemstones could once be found before the source ran dry...

BACK

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Sakura, sakura... Can't get that song out of my mind

Even Polish University has it's own cherry trees blooming in May.

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So, finally the journey of Alice Academy students ends... 

Photoshop doesn't like me but this picture was just too beautiful.

Hooray for 11 years with "Gakuen Alice"!

Gonna miss you so much.