kailightarashi

[kailightarashi]

Journey with a Black Wolf - Part I

I padded through the forest, the space around me hidden in the darkness of night. A crescent moon shone in the breaks between the thick canopy above, however did little to reveal what lurk about me. Yet I could hear the rustling behind me as my pack followed my trail and I could smell their distinctive scents surrounding me.

They hurried up beside me, flanking me on either side. Their eyes glowed in the shimmer of moonlight and I felt pure joy enclose me. Kaiah bounded ahead with a few spirited leaps, eager to race through the forest and explore every nook. Her sleek black and white fur shimmered in the dim light, her red tinted tail raised in excitement. Keiya loped after her sister, her smooth black and brown fur also shining. Her tongue was lolled out in happiness, her brown eyes glowing with exultation.

I trotted after them, my pure black fur rustling in the cool breeze. We all looked similar; thick pelts, pointed ears, large paws, streamline bodies. Nonetheless I differed from these two dogs, these Canis lupus familiaris, being a wolf, a Canis lupus. I was wild, free, untamable.

And yet these two dogs had spirited personalities, a sense of their own wildness. And they were my friends and made up my pack. I wouldn't have wanted it any other way.

I picked up speed, easily ranging through the trees, with the Saberheart sisters behind me. A distant roaring sounded farther ahead of us and it sent a shiver down my spine. Kaiah didn't seemed bothered by it, drifting ahead of me as I slowed my pace. Keiya glanced back at me and quickly slowed her gait to match mine.

The sound was gaining closer and I barked a warning at Kaiah, causing her also to slow down. We were now at the edge of the forest and the three of us crept out from the undergrowth to what laid beyond.

A snarl formed in my throat as I saw the source of the noise and I bared my fangs in disguise. Large metal contraptions zoomed busily on a hard black surface, a harsh light glaring from their faces. They took no notice of my pack as we stood from the safety of the brush, nor of the unfortunate raccoon that laid in the middle of their path. I could smell its decay from here and had to stifled the urge to leap upon the nearest metal beast that didn't seem to care about the death that was before it.

I knew it would be redundant to attack, of which would only cause harm for my pack. And it wouldn't aid us in our mission at paw. I nosed Kaiah's cheek and pressed my shoulder against Keiya's in comfort. The only way to reach our destination was to cross the harsh black path.

I flicked my ears forward, motioning for them to follow closely. Cautionary we made our way up to the hard surface and I tentatively placed a paw on the path. It was still slightly warm from the previous day's sun and my black claws scraped roughly on it as I pressed down. It was safe enough and I looked side to side to watch the approaching contraptions. When there was a small break in between the oncoming beasts I darted forward, with the dogs quickly flanking me.

I felt the pressure lessen at my right side and I gasped in horror as Kaiah scudded away from me towards a drifting brown thing. I could smell food scents coming from it and knew that Kaiah had also.

I hurriedly pushed Keiya off the path and onto the haven of the grass beyond and turned to follow Kaiah. She didn't notice the approaching metal beast as she scarfed down the yellow food things; this one having no lights on its face.

I barged into her, sending her flying to the grass on the side of the path, and felt hot pain as the beast rammed into me before I could fully leap away. My breath was knocked out of me as I crashed heavily into the ground and I grunted as pain lanced my right hind leg.

The beast screeched away, not bothering to check whether I lived or died. But soon I heard another slowly crept toward me, its light shining harshly in my eyes.

Kaiah and Keiya were making their way towards me and relief filled me when I saw they were both alright. Yet I couldn't have them placed in more danger as this new threat crept near me so I growled roughly, commanding them to stay away. I pointed with my nose to the woods in the distance, indicating for them to go without me.

Reluctantly they obeyed and trotted off, leaving me to face the danger alone. I turned my head back to the metal beast and saw that it had stopped, through it still shone its bright eyes on me. Something was crawling out of it, startling me that such a thing was possible. Who heard of prey crawling out of a predator's stomach?

The new creature shone another strange light on me, beaming off my dark black pelt. I didn't care to meet this newcomer so I pushed myself to my paws as best as I could and stood up. I was still a bit shaky and mine right leg ached pretty bad but other than that I seemed okay.

Limping as fast as I could I dashed towards the trees and away from the odd looking creature. It shout a few strange sounds at me but I paid no mind as I took cover into the trees.

Kaiah and Keiya raced to me when I was halfway there, rumbling happily. Yet I didn't stop until I reached the tree line and glanced back, making sure the creature wasn't following me. It had gotten back into the metal creature and was pulling away.

Kaiah and Keiya were licking me with joyful yips and I nuzzled each of them in turn. Nevertheless, my gaze never left the aberrant path, the moonlight reflecting off my one blue and one green eyes.

[kailightarashi]

Weird. Feeling this way today. And my dog is a similar looking husky like the one in the photo :)

Support system

[kailightarashi]

Kaiah's and Keiya's Adventure~

A short story by the pups

Kaiah’s Light

She raced through the darkening forest, her paws barely touching the ground as she slipped between the trees. In the distance she heard the cries of the family of coyotes that lived near her home. She felt her sister shiver beside her, from fear or excitement she did not know for her scent was mixed with both.

"Kaiah," her sister whispered as they dashed side by side. "Are you sure this is a good idea? You know what Zelda would say, 'Only dogs would be as foolish as to chase shadows they couldn't see'."

"Don't let that silly cat get to you, Keiya," Kaiah barked, amused by her sister's obsession with the feline species. "I know she is just as curious as to what is out here as we are. But you know cats, too busy with their naps and grooming to do anything that's worth any fun."

"You're right," Keiya sighed, "I just wish the cats would play with us more."

"That will happen when dogs learn to fly. Of course I'm working on that," Kaiah laughed and pushed herself faster. Her poor heavier sister couldn't keep up with her pace as she flashed through the woods like a bolt of black and white lightning.

She allowed herself a moment of pure exultation, feeling the stretch and pull of her muscles, the wind stroking her fur, and the lightness of her body as her legerity overtook her. Flashes of light guided her paws, drawing her forward into the night. She was surrounded by thousands of twinkling lights, illuminating the path before her. The trees loomed around her, casting shadows along the way mixing in with the light.

At last she glimpsed a break in the woods and she shifted into an impossible gait, reaching a speed she never dreamed of achieving. She emerged into a glade and pressed down on her haunches, drifting into abrupt halt. Billions upon billions of fireflies raised to the heavens, sparkling like a host of stars.

Kaiah drew in a breath, awe catching in her throat. The little lightning bugs scattered away, drifting on the still air, matching the beauty reflected in the night sky. She felt her sister trot up behind her and they both fell into silence as they marveled at the wondrous scene.

"Is this what we were seeking?" Keiya whispered into her sister's ear. "Not shadows but the light?"

"Yes," Kaiah breathed. "This is it. This is the light of life."

The stars shone in brilliant radiance as the moon ventured upon its path. The two dogs, sisters in heart, sat side by side watching the journey of the heavens above. They lifted their heads, pointing their muzzles to the sky, and howled in pure joy. The family of coyotes soon joined into their song, they too witnessing what grace could be found in the world.

"Next time," Keiya spoke after their song was done, "Let us bring the cats."

Keiya’s Grace

Keiya chewed the old battered jolly ball, pondering what she should do that day. The blue ball was her favorite; even though it was supposed to be Kaiah's, who received it for her first birthday. Oh well, Keiya thought as slobber dripped onto the ball, Her most cherished gift was me anyways, us having become sisters so close to her birthday. Besides we have three other jolly balls now.

It had been a year since then and the ball had seen better times. The handle was close to being chewed off, marked by her own teeth. She worked tirelessly on that task, her salvia foaming on the toy. Yet, despite the gasping hole, the ball remained its shape and could still bounce high if toss on the ground.

Keiya stood up and stretched her wearily limbs, tossing the ball aside. She wanted to see what her sister was up to and what they could connive for that day. Perhaps they could convince the cats to play and all would be merry.

She nosed the ground, catching her sister's scent and followed it to where she knew the husky roamed. She could tell by the scent that her sister was spirited and happy.

Perhaps she had found peanut butter, Keiya knew that was her favorite food. Well Kaiah seemed to like all food, never missing a chance to gobble any scraps down. Oft the swift husky stole away the bits of food before Keiya even had a chance to realize they were there. Nevertheless, Keiya knew if she bid her time she could snack on the pieces that her sister had buried and enjoy its taste at her leisure.

Keiya chuckled to herself, thinking of how the husky would scrap away at the earth, place the food item there, and push the dirt back over it with her nose. She would walk away afterwards with a big chunk of soil collected on her snout.

Wanting to see her sister the shepherd picked a faster gait, choosing a ground-eating lope. Her long tail swung in a crazed loop, supporting her bulk and giving her momentum.

She wondered if this was how Saber had ran, having been a shepherd as herself. He was much beloved by the others and his lost strung even her own heart though as she had never met him. She felt his presence by her side and knew it was her role now to give comfort. She knew the larger shepherd would be proud of her.

At last Keiya came across her sister. The husky was peering through the brush towards something that had caught her attention.

The shepherd slowed, but it wasn't enough to stop herself from bumping into Kaiah. Her sister shook it off good-naturedly and gave her a glance that told her to be quiet.

In the meadow before them played a young fox. His bright reddish-rusty pelt shimmered in the noontime sun and his brushy tail fanned out behind him as he leapt into the air. With a twist he landed on his black paws and swirled to bat at a yellow butterfly drifting on the breeze.

"Let us play!" Keiya bounded out of the bushes in a clumsy canter. She halted in front of the startled fox and bent down on her forepaws in a bow and wagging her tail on her raised hindquarters.

The fox jolted backwards, arching his back while curving his body. He crouched on his legs, lashed his tail and pressed his ears against his head. His lips drew back, revealing sharp fangs and he let out a hiss.

Keiya sat down in astonishment, tilted her head, whimpering, and pawed the ground before her. Kaiah trotted to her side and nuzzled her cheek.

"Sister," she spoke softly in her ear, standing alert with a solid stance, her ears perked and her eyes never leaving the fox, "You frightened the poor champ. You are rather large and intimidating, you know."

"I just wished to make friends..." Keiya drawled, lowering her head in sadness.

"You can be friends. Yet remember, just like the cats he might not understand everything. For example remember that a cat wagging her tail doesn't mean she is happy; it actually means she is angry. You can't just assume that your intentions are always clear," Kaiah spoke nonchalantly.

The fox had sat down with his tail tucked over his paws, watching the dogs curiously. He leaned his nose forward, sniffing inquisitively, and flicked his ears to them. "You want to be friends?" he yipped with a slight accent. "I would like that."

"Really?" Keiya sat up overjoyed, wiggling in excitement.

"Yes," the fox nodded. "You two seem very nice and it never hurts to have friends."

"Awesome!" Kaiah hopped over to their new companion. "Let's play! Catch me! Catch me!" She leapt away, her paws a blur beneath her.

The fox and Keiya exchanged a glance and grinned in agreement. They pushed to their paws and chased after the husky, releasing amused barks.

The fox, husky, and shepherd would be friends forevermore.

[kailightarashi]

Ending for the Fanfic

I finally finished it (unless I decide to work more of the ideas I had for it). It was fun to write again and with no stress that it had to be perfect. To write just for fun, that’s how it should be. I love to daydream these adventures but I didn’t want this one to be lost into the abyss of my mind. I think what happened in my head was better than what I wrote but it always seems to work that way. I wish I had a computer that could record the scenes as they played out in my mind, to capture what I miss when translating it to the written word. Oh well... I hope you enjoy nevertheless.

_

Weeks passed as Ashia seemed lost to the madness. She didn’t regain awareness of her former self, just remained like a maddened beast.

“Obi,” Zen stood before him, “I command you to take a break. You’re doing no good if you let yourself be worn out.”

“I’m fine, Master. You need me here.”

“I already had another guard to replace you. Now go.”

“Okay, Okay,” Obi left, knowing that Zen wouldn’t give up until he did as he was told. He walked around the palace grounds but saw nothing. While his body might be able to leave that room his mind could not.

He refused to give up on Ashia. He had promised he would never do so again.

Obi hurried back to the room, his master would have to forgive him for only taking a short break. It didn’t feel right to be away from Ashia.

As he neared the room, his heart started to pound. The door was cracked open and when he looked inside he froze. Ashia was gone and the ones inside were severely wounded.

“Hey, what happened?” Obi went to help the ones inside, “Where’s Ashia?” Others were rushing in to tend to the injuries.

“She escaped,” gasped the wounded guard. “I couldn’t stop her, I’m sorry.”

“There are even more people hurt on the castle grounds. Someone needs to stop that monster before she gets too far!” growled a soldier that had come to help.

Obi sprinted out of the room. It wasn’t hard to follow her trail, their was a lot of commotion in her wake. O I knew he had to reach her quickly, before someone decided it was easier to kill her rather than stop her. He had just reached the edge of the castle when he heard Zen calling to him.

“Master! We have to hurry and catch her...” Obi stopped short when he saw his master’s expression. “No, please Master!”

“The order has already been given. I’m sorry, Obi. She’s too dangerous like this and there is little chance she will recover from it. There is no other choice.”

Obi gave him a stern look before leaping away. There was no way he would let anyone hurt her. He would save her.

He found her running towards the rural farmlands in the east. He caught up to her and pulled her to a stop, holding her in his arms. She struggled against him, trying to fight but her breaths were too ragged to put up a real fight.

“It’s okay, it’s okay,” Obi patted the top of her head. “You have to settle down now.. or else they are going to kill you. Calm down, just calm down.”

Ashia seemed to settle and she fell slack into his arms. “Obi?” she mummer, looking up at him with drowsy eyes. “What are you doing?”

“Are you feeling better?” Obi asked her, letting her go.

“What happened?” Ashia stepped away from him, looking at the dried blood on her hands in horror.

“You don’t have to concern yourself. As long as you get better it wouldn’t matter. I would let them kill you.”

“Kill me?” she took another step back, her eyes filling with fear. “I’m scared, Obi. I don’t want to die.” Her words choked in her throat when a sharp pain pierced her back.

“Ashia!” Obi stepped in front of her, shielding her from any more arrows. “Halt your fire! She’s not the enemy!” A snarl behind him made him glance back. Ashia’s awareness was washed out by a savage blank stare. He quickly knocked her unconscious and threw her on his back, racing off. There were be no compromise for her life while she was mad with rage.

He soon lost the pursuers in a nearby woods and continued onward until he found an abandoned farmhouse. He found some rope and bounded Ashia’s arms and legs. “I’m sorry, Ashia.” He pulled out the arrow, causing her to wake up and hiss at him. She tried to bite him as he wrapped her wound.

“All done,” he smiled at her and patted her hand. “Now just settle down and relax. We will find a way out of this.” He turned to grab the water he had collected beforehand.

“Obi,” her voice was weak behind him, “Thank you.”

“Ashia, you’re back!” Obi hugged her in relief. “You’re getting better, aren’t you?”

“Obi, I want it to be you. I want you to be the one that ends my life.”

“No way! I would never do that. I’m going to save you, Ashia.”

“Please Obi, promise me that it will be you.”

Obi gave her a grim look but turned his gaze to the surrounding forest. Soldiers stepped out from the shadows, their swords hold pointed forward. Zen steps forward with Mitsuhide and Kiki beside him.

“Obi, step aside,” Zen commands.

“That’s one order I cannot obey,” Obi stares at Zen sternly, pulling out his shuriken. He turns sharply to block an attack from behind but stops short from attacking when he sees it is Ashia, her eyes filled with nothing but empty rage. His hesitation to defend himself causes him to lose his footing when she crashes against him with great force. She steals the shuriken that fallen from his hand, using it to engage a soldier approaching her.

“Ashia stop!” he pleaded, trying to wake her awareness. Despite her sickness, Ashia fights with remarkable skill, beating anyone who draws near. Obi goes to her aid but she slashes the shuriken at his face, forcing him back.

Obi touches the blood on his face, his gaze fixed on Ashia who was surrounded but the soldiers. “I ordered them to make it as painless as possible,” Zen spoke, coming up beside him.

“Master. Let me be the one to do it. That’s what she wanted.”

Zen nods and calls off his men. Ashia glares out at them with savage eyes.

Obi slowly approaches her, leaving his hands unarmed. He grabs her arm when she goes to attack with the shuriken, causing her to drop it. He pulls her close to him and whispers into her ear, “Everything’s going to be alright now. Don’t you worry anymore. I love you, Ashia.”

He leaned in and kissed her, holding her to him.

Zen sighed from where he stood. From his line of sight he noticed that Ashia’s eyes cleared, losing all trace of the madness. Not even a speck remained, her eyes were as clear as before her disappearance.

Obi grabbed a shuriken from his belt, holding it behind him.

“Obi, wait!” Zen shouted, knowing that the sickness was now gone from her completely.

The shuriken was already at her neck, slashing a bright red ribbon deep within it.

[kailightarashi]

Ashia stayed in the ‘prisoners’ ward from then on, receiving treatments while Obi stood on guard. Her health took a turn for the worst and everyone involved was working tirelessly to find a cure. Shirayuki insisted on being part of the team, much to the displeasure of Ashia and the rest. But she insisted she was going to help her friend and they knew they wouldn’t be able to stop her.

Obi never left her side, his heart growing wary as he watched the madness slowly creep within Ashia. Then it happened where she attacked the one treating her and Obi had to hold her back from hurting the assistant. They had to bound her from then on to prevent any further incidents.

Sometimes she was aware of herself and at other times she was nothing but a growling beast. She would rage against her resistants until she fall into unconscious from pure exhaustion.

When Ashia was aware of herself Obi tried to cheer her but she seemed to be falling into a deep desolation. She would often curse him and tell him to get out but he never took what she said to him to heart. He knew it was her way of trying to distance herself from him, she didn’t like him seeing her like this.

“Ashia, I still love you. Nothing will ever change that,” he said to her one day, “And I know you feel the same even through you deny it.”

“You’re a fool,” Ashia snarled at him, “I’m tired of hearing such folly things from you. Leave me be.”

“See, that means ‘I love you too’ in Ash language,” Obi laughed her remark off.

“Shut up,” Ashia growled, annoyed.

“Come on, why don’t you just admit it? You like me. You told Shirayuki as much.”

Ashia turned her face away from him, refusing to speak to him. She had requested a different guard awhile ago, when the madness first started taking over. But Obi wouldn’t leave her.

“Ash, I just want to make you happy. And I think you want the same.” Obi walked around the bed to face her, kneeling she they were eye level. “It might help you to get better quicker.”

Ashia did the one thing she could at the moment, she spat in his face. Obi stepped back with a look of disbelief, hurt clouding his eyes. Maybe she really didn’t like him anymore. He turned away and took up his position by the door, saying no more.

“Obi,” Ashia whispered, knowing she went too far, “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be,” Obi grunted, “You don’t have to apologize to a mere guard.”

“You are more than that to me! I just... don’t want to hurt you.”

“Once you are better I’ll leave you alone, just like you want.”

“I don’t want that!” Ashia cried, sobs breaking her words, “I want you, Obi. I want you to be by my side forever. I love you.”

“Then why....?” Obi went to her side again and touched her hand.

“Forget it,” Ashia reverted back to her cold self. “I didn’t mean it that way.”

“We both know that you did,” Obi grabbed her shoulders. “Don’t go back to denying it again!” He lean in close and kissed her on the forehead.

When he pulled back he noticed tears filling her eyes once more. “It’s because I would rather have you hate me then be hurt when I die.”

“Die?” Obi blinked. “You’re going to get better.”

“I’m not. This is an incurable disease. Everyone but you knows that. I’m going to die.”

“You’re not,” Obi argued.

“Go talk to Shirayuki if you don’t believe me,” Ashia replied.

Obi went to find Shirayuki as Ashia suggested, when the next physician came. He promised to be quick and left. He found Shirayuki at the medical wing, mixing herbs.

“Miss, Ash... she’s going to be okay, isn’t she?”

“I don’t know,” Shirayuki answered honestly. She stood up to face him, her face downcast. “Ashia is dying, Obi. There is no known cure. There is nothing else we can do but make her comfortable.”

“No!” Obi slammed his fist onto the table, making her jump. “Promise me that you will find a cure! Please you have too!”

“I promise I will do everything in my power to find one,” Shirayuki spoke with determination.

Obi left, heading back to Ashia. He would tell her that Shirayuki would find a cure for, she didn’t have to worry.

When he got to the door he heard something hard hit the wall. Quickly he opened the door and saw Ashia free of her restraints, standing over the physician who was laying unconscious on the floor, blood splatter around him.

The movement of the door drew Ashia’s attention and she leapt for him, slamming into him. It took all his strength to hold her back, and he called for help. It soon arrived and Ashia was struck with a sleeping medication. They quickly re-secured her restraints and attended to the injured physician.

Obi slumped into his chair, worry draining him of all strength. He didn’t know how much more of this Ashia could endure.

[kailightarashi]

Obi stayed close by Shirayuki’s side, rarely taking a break from his duty. He didn’t say much and guarded with her with a fierce resolve. Zen and the others tried to talk to him and cheer him up but he remained shut off, staying cold and distant. Months passed and no more was heard about Ashia nor the group that had attacked them.

It was a warm summer day as Shirayuki and Obi walked the streets of the castle town. They stopped when they saw a large mass of people gathering around a cloaked person laying in the street. Shirayuki ran forward to help the one who had collapsed and Obi followed close behind. They pushed through the crowd and when they could see what was going on, Obi froze in his tracks.

Ashia was the cloaked person, unconscious in the street. Shirayuki leaned over her, checking her status. “Obi,” her expression was surprised but stern, “Help me bring her to the medical wing. She needs treatment.”

Obi hurried over and lifted Ashia onto his back. He could feel the warmth radiating from her, knowing she was very sick. They brought her quickly to the medical wing where Obi was told to wait outside.

After what seemed like forever, Shirayuki came out to talk to him. “She is going to be okay, Obi,” she smiled in relief. “It looks like her wounds were treated, but poorly. She has an infection but she’s strong so we know she will recover after some time. She’s still unconscious but you can go see her.”

Obi went inside and sat down beside her. She was breathing roughy and trembling slightly. He reached over and squeezed her hand. This time he would not let go, no matter what came at them.

Night fell and Obi gazed out the window at the rising moon. The others had came and gone, grateful that Ashia was doing remarkably well given what she had gone through. Her fever was already lower and her breathing more regular. She really was going to be alright.

Zen had sent out some soldiers to investigate the area where Ashia was found. It seemed odd she would suddenly appear. But they came up empty handed and it was concluded that she must have escaped on her own and managed to make her way here until she finally succumbed to her injuries.

Obi scolded himself for giving up on her so quickly. He had believed that she hadn’t survived and searching would only led to disappointment. If only he had more faith in her and went out to find her, she wouldn’t have went through so much suffering.

He resolved that he would never make that mistake on her again. Shirayuki had told him that Ashia had admitted her feelings towards him, hoping that it would give him comfort in his lost. So perhaps now they would follow a new path together.

Obi found himself drifting asleep as the moon floated higher in the sky and dozed in the chair beside Ashia’s bed, never letting go of her hand.

A voice calling his name woke him up. “Obi,” she called again in a raw voice, her hand he wasn’t holding pushing against his hair in an attempt to arose him. “Hurry and wake up.”

“Ashia!” He bolted upright in his chair. It was nearly dawn as the sky outside was lightening.

“You have to listen to me,” she spoke urgently, trying to sit upright in her bed. Obi helped her to get a more comfortable position. “You have to do as I say,” her voice cracked from months of unused and she took a breath to recover. “You have to kill me.”

“What?!” Obi jumped out of his chair. “No way, I would never do that.”

“I don’t care if it’s you or someone else. Just get it done, quickly.” Ashia’s body shook but her eyes never wavered from what she said.

“Why would we do that? You are going to be fine. You’ll recover.”

“You don’t understand. I wouldn’t recover. I had a sickness that can’t be cured and —”

“How do you know that? If it’s an unknown sickness Shirayuki and the others will find a way to cure it!”

“It’s too dangerous. Listen, Obi, I don’t know how much time I have. My captors didn’t count on my ability to resist it for so long. They infused me with a disease that causes madness. I bet they would hoping that the physicians wouldn’t find it until it was too late and instead be focused on my injuries. Then while they were treating me I would turn and attack them. They knew Shirayuki was a court pharmacist, that I would end up hurting her or worst.”

“I don’t understand. Ash, you would never hurt anyone.”

“Please Obi,” sobbed Ashia, tearing streaming from her eyes, “I don’t know what else to do.”

Obi noticed for the first time just how frail she looked. Her hands were trembling from fatigue, her shoulders drew in, her eyes redden by more than just tears. She looked defeated. He could even see something on the edge of her being, something creeping from within.

“Okay, I believe you. But since we know what we are dealing with, we can take countermeasures. We will be careful and watch out for any creeping madness. I wouldn’t have you killed to deal with it. There has to be another way. Actually I have an idea.”

Obi scooped Ashia in his arms and made his to the window. “What are you doing?” Ashia huffed in alarm, trying to escape from his grasp. “Surely you can think of a better way of disposing me other than throwing me out the window.”

“Hush. Just bear with me for a bit.” Obi opened the window and leapt out. He hopped along the rooftops, avoiding curious eyes and made his way to the lower parts of the castle. He entered an empty room, grabbed a set of keys and made his way down a dim lit hallway. He stopped at the seventh door and used the keys to open it.

Inside was a well furnished room. Obi set her on the bed. “This is where they keep their ‘important’ prisoners. You can stay here while they figure out your sickness. And I will stand guard while only a few select people treat you. I’ll make sure Shirayuki stays safe. Does that sound like a good plan?”

“Yes,” Ashia agreed, “But you better go tell the others what is going on before they discover us gone from the medical wing.”

“Maybe we should let and they’re think we went off on our own to elope,” Obi laughed, feeling like his old self. He still didn’t think this disease was as serious as Ashia made it out to be. She would be healed before long. And maybe then they really could get engaged.

“Just go,” Ashia sighed, waving him off.

[kailightarashi]

Ashia poured the rest of the water out of her boot onto the stone floor. “I’m sorry, Shirayuki, it looks like we are stuck here. It’s too dangerous to travel the mountainside in this rain.”

“That’s alright, Ash. I think we could all use the rest anyways. You and Obi are all worn out,” Shirayuki laid out the blankets around the fireplace where Obi was working on starting a fire. The mansion they found when it started pouring was abandoned and most of its furnishings were gone or too worn to be of any use.

“The fire is set,” Obi stood up, “Don’t bother setting up any bedding for me Miss, I’ll be standing guard outside.”

“Nonsense, it’s too cold out there,” Shirayuki argued. “You’ll stay in here with us, right Ash?”

“There are bandits in these woods. It might be a good idea if one of us keeps watch,” Ashia nodded at Obi, “Obi and I will take turns of course.”

“I will take first shift. You two get some rest.” Obi waved and exited out of the door.

Shirayuki fell asleep quickly and Ashia sat against the wall, listening to the falling rain. Nothing more had happened between her and Obi after she told him that those type of feelings would intervene with their job. Besides she wasn’t even sure if she felt that way about him. He mattered a lot to her, but she had never before experience feelings of love and was unsure what it felt like.

A noise disrupted her thoughts. “Obi?” she called but was cut off when a cloth covered her mouth. She took an involuntary breath in and knew that the cloth was laced with a sleeping drug. She had to do something fast or else the toxin would soon take affect. She kicked out with her foot smashing her opponent’s leg. Her attacker released just enough pressure from her mouth for her to call out, “Obi!” before the hand was back at her mouth.

Darkness dimmed her mind as she saw that Obi had heard her, rushing through the door. Another figure emerged from the shadow to attack him and she saw another one near Shirayuki who was now awake.

Obi threw a shuriken at the one nearing Shirayuki and attacked the one approaching him. More appeared from the door behind him and the one holding Ashia dropped her to the ground to join in the fight.

Her body was heavy but she knew she had to help Obi. Shirayuki ran over to her and helped her to her feet. “Do you have anything to counteract the toxin?” she asked.

“Not with me,” Shirayuki replied, “We have to get you out of here.”

“Don’t worry about me,” Ashia whispered, “Listen closely, you need to do exactly what I say..” she spoke softly into her ear.

“We can’t do that!” Shirayuki protested, looking at her worryingly.

“It’ll be fine. Just stay with Obi.”

Ashia drew her sword and went to aid Obi. She fought well as she could with the effect of the drug clouding her mind. These people were more than mere bandits, most likely were hired to dispose of the soon to be princess. She looked back and saw it was all set. “Obi, guard Shirayuki. I’ll be right behind you.”

He did as she told him and leapt to Shirayuki’s side near an empty hallway. Ashia ran to the fireplace where a little flame still burned, just enough for what she needed. Taking a small log she tossed it before the hall, where a flame leapt up to block the entrance.

Her opponents then turned to face her, rage boiling in their eyes. She raised her sword to block an attack and slashed it out at another behind her back. Normally fighting even this many opponents would have been easy for her but the drug was dulling her senses and movements. She snarled at herself for letting them have the upper hand.

Two of them attacked simultaneously, knocking out her legs from underneath her and flinging her sword from her hand. A sword flew at her, where she was left unable to defend herself. A quick movement burst from the flames and blocked the attack on her.

“Obi!” she called in shock.

Obi knelt before her, his face pained. “Did you really think I would leave you behind to die?” He coughed, blood spilling from his mouth. He picked her up and raced through the now dying flames. He raced through the hallway and down a staircase to the right. He quickly closed the door of the room and secured it.

“Obi!” Shirayuki cried, “You’re hurt.”

“I’m okay,” he grunted. “I think there is a tunnel leading out of here. Ash, you take Shirayuki and make for the forest, they wouldn’t be able to follow you in this rain. If anyone can navigate through the forest in the middle of the night in a rainstorm it’s you.”

“And leave you behind? That’s crazy! Aren’t you just the one who just came back for me?” Ashia protested.

“I can’t travel far with this wound right now. Don’t worry I will hide and rest, then catch up with you when I can.”

“We will stay with you then,” Shirayuki argued.

“It’s too dangerous. Besides I can stay hidden better alone.”

“Fine. But let me wrap your wound before we leave.”

The sounds of footsteps pounded overhead as the men searched for them. It wouldn’t be long before they headed down here. “I’m fine, you two need to go.”

“Treat him. I need to rest a bit before I move again,” Ashia closed for eyes and slumped against the cold wall.

Shirayuki quickly wrapped his wound and were ready to set out.

“Don’t do anything stupid, Obi. Don’t die.” Ashia looked at him with a grave expression.

Obi looked at her with a surprise expression then grinned. “I’ll stay alive.”

Ashia and Shirayuki raced through a long hallway, twisting and turning many ways. It was a maze down here, probably an escape route for the residents that once lived in the mansion.

Ashia couldn’t keep Obi from her mind. Him saving her from the sword kept flashing in her head. That frightened her more than she wanted to admit. She was afraid of losing him. Not just losing a companion or a friend. It was a feeling she didn’t understand, a feeling she didn’t even realized she had.

Ashia was breathing hard when they reached a small room. “Let’s rest here for a moment,” Shirayuki suggested, “I think we will be safe for a little bit.”

Ashia didn’t protest and sat down, wiping the sweat from her brow. “Do you think Obi will be alright?”

“His wound wasn’t too deep. And Obi is quite stealthy, he will be fine,” Shirayuki replied, “You love him, don’t you?”

“I...” Ashia paused as realization of how she felt hit her. “If you were to ask me before tonight I would have said no. But now... my answer is yes, I love him.”

“I knew it,” Shirayuki smiled, “You and Obi being together would make me so happy. You both deserve to be happy.”

“But I... we can’t be together. It would get in the way of our job,” Ashia protested.

“I don’t think it would. In fact I believe it would make you stronger.”

Footsteps echoed down the hallway towards them. It was too many to be Obi. Ashia grabbed Shirayuki’s hand and hurried out of the room into another long hallway. They hurried along but their pursuers were gaining on them.

“Shirayuki, stay behind me. I’ll hold them off.”

The clash of swords echoed down the hall. Ashia knew she couldn’t hold them off for long, she could only hope that Obi would arrive soon. Maybe together they could push them back.

Obi arrived shortly, racing towards them and joined the battle. He seemed slower than usual but he fought fiercely. It was no use though, he was too worn to keep up the pace of the fight. He was knocked back and a sword was aimed at his chest. He had no way of blocking it as he fell. Time seemed to move in slow motion as blood spattered in front of him. Ashia had stepped in between the attacker and him, the sword piercing her chest.

“It’s up to you now to protect the princess,” she grunted, pushing him away from the fight and towards Shirayuki. She slashed at something on the wall of the tunnel and an iron gate fell downward, blocking Obi and Shirayuki from Ashia and the attackers.

“Ashia!” Obi shouted in despair. He could do nothing as she was stabbed with another blade through the stomach. She crumbled to the ground, blood pooling around her. “No!”

Some of the opponents were trying to lift the gate, its age making it possible. Obi grabbed Shirayuki and ran down the hallway. He hated leaving Ashia behind but there was nothing else he could do. If they stayed and fought, they would all die. And he wasn’t even sure if Ashia was even alive to be saved. She wouldn’t want her sacrifice to be in vain and he had to honor it no matter the cost.

[kailightarashi]

The moon was peering through the snow heavy clouds as Ashia blew into her hands to warm them. “What are you doing out here? I thought I told you to rest,” she spoke to the shadow approaching through the snowstorm.

“Here, let me,” Obi cupped her hands in his own and blew his breath on them.

“Wha-what are you doing?” Ashia step back, pulling her hands away but Obi grabbed them again before she could get too far.

“I want to talk. Will you hear me out?” He looked into her eyes with an intense expression.

“I will. But do you have to hold my hands to do so?”

Obi dropped her hands. The wind blew, whipping snow around them.

“What is this about?” Ashia asked, looking up at him.

Obi looked away from her gaze, rubbing the back of his neck. “Umm well I would like to tell you something. Actually I have something to confess. To you.”

“You can tell me anything, you know that. I’ll support you no matter what it is.”

“I wonder,” Obi mused, mostly to himself.

“I’m serious,” Ashia touched his arm, “You are... my best friend, Obi. I never had friends before, not before I met you and the others. Being your friend, it means a lot to me and I will always honor that.”

Obi looked at her again, his face flushed. He couldn’t find his voice to speak.

“Just tell me.”

“I like you, Ash. More than just a friend.”

She stood stun, her face turning pale. “Wha-?”

“I don’t want to hide my feelings from you. I... I love you.”

“I... I think you are confused, Obi. You’re mixing up your feelings. I mean we spend a lot of time together and it’s only natural we will like each after awhile and —”

Obi put his hand over her mouth, interrupting her, and leaned in close. “I know how I feel. I love you, there is no mistaking that.” They stood there for a moment, neither of them moving.

Obi sighed and released Ashia. “I will take over watch. Go get some rest.”

Ashia nodded and headed towards her quarters.

“And Ash,” Obi called after her, “I wouldn’t be hurt if you don’t feel the same towards me. It’s just we shouldn’t keep secrets from each other. We are a team, after all. I wanted you to know that you can trust me.”

[kailightarashi]

Akagami no Shirayukihime Fanfic continued

Obi and Ashia worked well as a team protecting Lady Shirayuki as the months passed. Ashia got on well with Shirayuki and found herself becoming a part of the group of her close friends. Her and Obi also grew rather close, working as well as Mitsuhide and Kiki did.

Yet while the others were well aware of Obi’s more affectionate feelings towards Ashia, she was completely oblivious to it. She thought of their friendship as strictly part of the job, nothing more or at least that’s what she decided. Their job was too important to put anything else first.

Ashia took a sip of her tea, its warmth a comfort against the cold of Lyrias. She glanced out at the falling snow as the others engaged in a lively conversation around the table where they sat.

“It’s really coming down, isn’t it?” Obi spoke up next to her and nudged Zen’s arm on his other side, “Want to build a snowman, Master?”

“Better not, His Majesty might catch a cold,” Kiki remarked, sipping her tea nonchalantly.

“Kiki!” Zen protected as the others laughed.

“Just think of it this way, Master, the Mistress will tend to you while you are ill,” Obi grinned.

“What about you? If you get sick then Ashia can tend to you!” Zen shot back, standing up from the table.

“I’m not a pharmacist, what could I do?” Ashia sighed, staring out the window. “At any rate we better hurry back before it gets dark. This storm looks like it’s getting worst.”

“Ashia is right,” Mitsuhide stood up, “We better get going.”

The group left and made their way through the snow cover streets. Obi walked behind Zen and Shirayuki, listening to their happy chatter. His eyes lingered on their hands linked together.

“Why don’t you just tell her?” Kiki spoke softly so that the others couldn’t hear. “Ashia may be like Mitsuhide when it comes to the job but perhaps she shares your feelings. We managed to work it out so I believe you two could also.”

“You and Mitsuhide aren’t even engaged yet. Besides my and Ashia’s relationship is different,” Obi rubbed the back of his neck in embarrassment.

“You should tell her how you feel. You will never know what will happen if you don’t try. And that will hold you back from moving forward.”

Kiki dropped back to talk with Mitsuhide. They were nearly at their residence now when Obi felt a touch on his arm.

“Ashia,” Obi acknowledged her. “Do you need something?”

“I’ll take first watch tonight,” Ashia replied, “You should get some rest, you seem worn out.”

“Okay, thanks,” Obi nodded and went inside to his room. He shut the door behind him headed to his bed, falling on his back. He looked at his arm lit in the light of the fading sun. Should I tell her?

[kailightarashi]

A sample of my original story

~Rain~

Rain dripped upon the ferns, sliding gracefully to its edges and pooling on the earth. The steady pattern could be heard throughout all the forest, striking upon the canopy and onto all that lived below in the open.

The black wolf snuggled her head deeper in white fur, purring peacefully as his scent filled her senses. They curled in a small burrow under the dirt, where they had escaped from the downpour earlier. The smoothing tone of the rain had lulled them to sleep.

She felt the white wolf shifted next to her and felt his warm breath on the back of her neck. He started lapping softly at her fur and she purred deeper.

The rain continued in a cadence pace, giving the hollow a sense of serenity. The wolves watched from the entrance as drops raced down the leaves. A moment like this could last forever, as it were a piece of heaven's divine bliss.

After he finished glooming her fur, the white wolf got to his paws and stretched. The tip of his white brushy tail tickled her nose as he left the shelter of the burrow and made his way to the opposite side of the hollow. "The others will be waiting for us," he woofed softly, peering back at her with steady blue eyes.

"I know," she got to her paws and stretched her warily limbs. "Aria is probably fretting her fur off. Let's go!" She bounded towards him and set a brisk pace through the sodden trees. The rain continued to drip from the leaves overhead and onto her sleek fur, glittering on the black like starry diamonds.

"We should tell them, you know," he glanced at her with a wary look. A shadow passed through his eyes before it was replaced with a masked blank expression.

"About my powers? I am just afraid I will scare them. What if they think I am the enemy here?"

"No, not that," he shook his head. "And I don't think they will turn against you. Though for now it's best we keep it to ourselves. I am talking about the other thing. Where I am a danger to you. They should know so that they could help protect you." The white wolf trotted ahead, not wanting to meet her eyes.

"Leon. I told you not to worry about that. It was an accident, that's all." She caught up to him and pressed against his side.

"It wasn't and you know it," Leon growled bitterly. "Perhaps it would be better if they knew I was the monster."

"Don't say that," the black pup whimpered, touching his ear with her nose. "You are my hero. You always will be, no matter what happens."

"Zeka..." he drawled, desperation entering his voice.

"Let's just keep both of our secrets to ourselves for now," Zeka gave his cheek a lick and bounced away. She didn't want his feelings of despair to dampen his relationship with her. She didn't blame him for what had happened. If anything it was her own fault, her uniqueness making her vulnerable.

The rain pelted her fur more roughly as she entered a small break in the woods. She lifted her muzzle to the grey skies, closed her eyes and reveled in the touch of the water. It washed the grim from her fur, soaking her skin and rinsing away the dirt. It cleansed her, washing away feelings of fear and doubt and replacing them with strength and determination.

She felt the presence of the white wolf brushing against her side and pressed into him, drawing comfort from his being. Surely the rain could wash away all the negative thoughts within him like it did her and give him peace. She drew in a deep breath, catching the scent of hope.

The rain washed away the uncertainly of the future and replaced it with anew hope. She knew that they would need that hope in the coming times.

"Hail, Leon-saiku, Zeka-zen," Anika called to them as they emerged from the forest. The rain had slowed to a drizzle, coating the packs' fur with mist. "We have been awaiting your arrival."

"Where have you been?" Aria growled, her fur prickling with irritation. "We have been waiting ages!"

"We have only been here for half a sun mark," Aragon swatted his sister's silvery ears playfully. "You didn't want to get your fur wet."

"You have my sincere apologies," Leon bowed to her. "As leader I should have been the first to arrive."

"Oh, it's alright," Aria dropped her gaze, blushing. She licked a paw, avoiding meeting the white wolf's gaze.

A blue flash drew the gathered creatures' attention to the sky and they watched in awe as Kōsei's landed among them. Neiko hopped to the ground and scampered onto Zeka's shoulder.

"Welcome, Kōsei, Neiko," the white wolf greeted them, giving nod to each of them.

"The rain continues to fall, disappearing in the depths of the sea," Kōsei spoke in his sing-song voice. Neiko nibbled nonchalantly at Zeka's ear.

"Well that is real helpful," Keiran snorted, flicking water from his black ears. "Leon, let's get started already."

"Right," Leon agreed and turned so that he stood before all the pack. "The AkarisaShine pack has grown strong over the last few moons. We have a group of strong members, really to tackle the threat to own homeland. I suggest that we divide ourselves and focus on multiple areas of the region. That way we can cover more ground quicker." The pack looked to each other and nodded in agreement. "Okay, so I thought we could split into these assignments: Zeka and I will search the Zyta Field and the DragonMoon Mountains, Aragon and Aria can take the Essence Forest and Upper DragonMoon Mountains, Atticus and Asbel the Emerald Meadows and Promise Lake, Kaya and Kaelia the Gryphon Canyons and West Mountains, Kōsei and Neiko the FireStar Mountains and Akarisa Forest, Keiran and Anika the Black Forest and Crimson Peaks."

"It is decided then," Kaya spoke in an approving voice. "When shall we gather together again and discuss what we have found?"

"In two moons, when summer ends and autumn begins. That should give us good time to seek out the problem," Leon decided, his eyes glowing with determination. "We will save our home. With all of us working together will guarantee our success. I just know it." He felt Zeka bump against him reassuringly and saw the resolved looks in his pack members eyes. He lifted his head proudly and held his tail high.

The darkness within him wasn't going to stop him from saving his home. For it wasn't just his home, but all of his friends too. And in saving the land he could protect Zeka. He could give her a place to belong, where she was safe. Even if he had to leave her in the end. All that mattered to him was her protection and happiness and his darkness would not hinder that.

The white wolf lifted his muzzle to the sky where rain still fell and howled. His pack joined him, eagerness and determination echoing in their song. The rain added its own melody, rinsing away muddled thoughts and renewing it with a fresh spirit.

[kailightarashi]

Five horses trotted along the forest path, carrying the six companions. They were enjoying a rare outing, a little break from their busy lives. The afternoon was warm, shining bright on the leaves of the trees.

They came to a stop in a small garden and Zen dismounted his horse first, then helped Shirayuki down. The rest followed suit, Obi handing his reins to Mitsuhide. “I’m going to scope the area. Be right back.”

“Wait Obi,” Zen called. “This area is safe. I had something else in mind for you to do. Ashia,” Zen turned to her, “Since you and Obi will be Shirayuki’s guards from now on I thought it best if you two had a duel. That way you will recognize each others’ strengths and weaknesses and be able to work together based off that.”

“Wait Master, I can’t fight her,” Obi looked at Ashia guiltily.

“Why not?” Zen inquired, a smirk forming on his lips.

“Well she just became a knight... and she doesn’t know my fighting style,” Obi fumbled for an excuse.

“Why would that matter? Unless... you already know hers?” Zen remark with laugher lacing his words. “If you are that concern why don’t you just go easy on her until she catches on to your style?”

“It’s quite alright, Prince Zen,” Ashia spoke up, humor lighting her eyes, “He doesn’t need to bother going easy on me. I’m quite sure he doesn’t know everything about my fighting style. Besides if he decides to take an easy on me that you will find the duel over even faster than if he did not.”

“Now that sounds like a challenge,” Mitsuhide grinned. “Are you sure you will be able to win, Obi?”

“Okay, okay, let’s just do this,” Obi obliges, taking his position opposite of Ashia. “Are you ready?”

“First move is yours,” Ashia nods, placing a hand on her sword but not drawing it. Her face remained blank, giving no hint on her intentions.

Obi sprinted forward, hooped to the side at the last moment, and struck out his arm in an attack. But he hand meet nothing but empty air. Shock stunned him but he quickly shook it off and tried once again to strike Ashia.

His attempts remained unsuccessful as Ashia dodged him again and again. “Not what you expected, huh Sir?” she laughed when she blocked another move.

“Finally someone as nimble as Obi!” Zen grinned, “Let’s take bets guys. I personally think Ashia will win.”

“I agree,” Kiki responded. “And when she does Obi buys us dinner.”

“Sounds good. My bet is on Ashia also,” Mitsuhide nodded.

Obi snorted, this time dodging an attack on Ashia’s end.

“I think Obi has a good chance to win,” Shirayuki smiled, “So I will bet on him.”

“Thanks Mistress,” Obi grinned. He sprung into a nearby tree and disappeared. Ashia may be able to keep up with his attacks but she wouldn’t be able to dodge an attack she couldn’t see.

But as he leapt from tree to tree he found that he had lost sight of her. He landed on the ground, cautionary observing his surroundings.

A hand at his neck came out of nowhere and he didn’t have to look to know she was behind him. She tapped his neck lightly with her hand. “I guess that makes me the winner, right Sir?”

“You can dropped the Sir. Just call me Obi.” Obi turned to her. “I’m sorry if I offended you earlier. You really are a skilled knight, Miss.”

“Thank you... Obi. And call me Ashia or Ash if you prefer. You are quite skilled yourself, I didn’t know how long I could keep up.”

“Are you serious? It didn’t look like you even broke a sweat.”

“Hey! Obi!” Zen called from the garden. “Did you lose yet? I’m hungry.”

“I guess we better get back,” Obi rubbed the back of his neck.

“Yeah,” Ashia nodded, “Hey Obi? We can say you won if you want. I don’t want you to have to buy dinner.”

Obi looked at her in surprise. “Naw that’s okay. You can pick whatever you want, it’s my treat.”

[kailightarashi]

As so it continues...

Here is the next part to my fan-fiction for Snow White with the Red Hair. I’m really enjoying this writing exercise and I hope you can enjoy it. ^^ (Note- Since I’m writing for fun, I’m not in the process of heavy editing so there may be mistakes)

~

As the months passed Obi kept an eye on the girl but never once approached her. He watched her from the shadows, learning her patterns and behaviors. She was very skillful with a sword and it didn’t take her long to pass to become a knight. She interacted little with others but was always kind to them when she did. She was often outdoors and rarely strayed into the interior of the castle unless she had to. She spent a lot of time in the stables and kennels, and often would watch the local wildlife in the nearby forest.

Along with spying on the newcomer, Obi kept busy being a personal guard to Shirayuki. She was often surrounded by admirers of the soon to be princess and on occasion assault by those who opposed a commoner becoming royalty. It never ended well for the latter for Obi did his job well.

This day Obi felt it would be a bore for Shirayuki was going to work in the herb gardens all day and not much happened there. He lounged in a nearby tree keeping lookout as she tended to the garden. It was warm and he was tired; his master had given him a late night errand. He felt his eyes drooping when he heard a shout.

Obi leapt out of the tree and hurried to the source of the sound. A cart crashed down the steep dirt path, right to where Shirayuki stood. She had wandered a ways away and he knew he wouldn’t make it in time. But as the cart rolled on by Shirayuki was gone from where she previously was, instead she stood on the side of the path next to a knight who wore a hooded cape.

“That was close, miss. Are you alright?” Obi checked on Shirayuki before turning to the knight, a shuriken hidden behind his back. It was too convenient for this knight to be in the right place at the right time, probably plotting the whole thing to win favor from the future princess.

“As for you-” he stopped short when he caught the gaze of the knight, her multicolored eyes shining under her hood.

“Your name is Ashia, right?” Shirayuki spoke up, smiling, “Thank you for saving me. I have been wanting to meet you; it was a great thing you did for those soldiers at the fort. Oh I forgot to introduce myself, I am Shirayuki. And this here is Ob-”

“We have to go,” Ashia interrupted her, grabbing Shirayuki’s wrist and pulled her away from the cart. Obi stood stun until he smelt it and ran after them. The cart exploded behind them, shattering debris everywhere. The place they stood moments before was smothered in flames.

“Phew, we almost didn’t make it,” Ashia pulled the hood from her head as she spoke. “Are you hurt, my lady?”

“I’m fine, thanks to you again,” Shirayuki replied.

“Shirayuki!” A shout from the distance draw their attention. Zen was rushing to them, Mitsuhide and Kiki behind him. “Are you hurt?”

“I’m fine, thanks to Ashia here,” Shirayuki reassured him. “Ashia, this is Zen, Mitsuhide, and Kiki,” she introduced them, “And I didn’t get the chance to acquaint you with Obi here yet.”

Obi averted his gaze when the others turned to him but didn’t say anything. He rubbed the back of his neck and pretended he was interested in something he saw in the sky. The others gave their greetings but Obi remained silent as they talked together. Some guards came over and reported the the suspect involved in the cart incident was caught and detained.

Shirayuki, Ashia, and Kiki headed towards the medical wing while Zen, Mitsuhide, and Obi went back to his chambers.

When they got there Zen turned to Obi, “You don’t think Ashia was involved in this incident, do you Obi?”

“No, Master. If she was why would she put herself at risk to save her?” Obi replied matter of factly.

“I trust your judgement. Besides you would know her motives best since you spent the last half of year spying on her.”

Obi flinched, caught off guard. “I... err..”

Mitsuhide slapped him on the back, laughing. “It’s alright, Obi. It doesn’t take a genius to guess that you are quite infatuated with her. It’s not like you to be so shy when there is a pretty girl around so I know it must be serious.”

“It’s not like that!” Obi protested, waving his hands in a defensive matter as the others teased him.

Zen cleared his throated and looked at Obi earnestly. “But in all seriousness, do you think we can trust her?”

“I do. I would bet my life on it,” Obi spoke solemnly. He meant what he said. There was just something about that girl he knew he could depend on.

“Than it is official. Along with Mitsuhide‘s and Kiki’s reports of her I have decided to appoint her as Immediate Knight to Shirayuki. You will be working with her to guard Shirayuki.”

[kailightarashi]

A bit of Fan-Fiction (Snow White with the Red Hair)

I don’t usually write fan-fiction but after finishing the anime Snow White with the Red Hair, and falling for the character Obi, I played out a little daydreaming in my head and decided it was good enough to make a story out of. And it feels good to write again, maybe after this I can get back to writing my own stories. At any rate please enjoy the beginning of this tale!

~

Dawn was not far off as Obi stroll along the castle’s walkway, stifling a yawn as he went. If he didn’t hurry his master would be angry; there was much work to get done that day. There was a lot of restlessness in the kingdom, especially since the engagement between Second Prince Zen and Court Herbalist Shirayuki was announced. He was happy for them but he wondered after they were married how he would feel, in particular for Shirayuki since he didn’t quite understand exactly what he felt for her.

Obi stifled another yawn as he went, the sun prickling his eyes as the first rays of morning shone over the castle’s walls. He wasn’t too worried about being punished for being late; he actually kind of enjoyed it.

He was crossing over the upper walkway when something in the lower courtyard caught his eye. A single knight was practicing alone, the sun gleaming off the blade of the sword. Yet it wasn’t the sword that had drawn his attention, rather the one wielding it who was a women with black hair. She stopped suddenly and glanced to where he stood on the upper pathway, her eyes locking with his.

Obi startled and ducked behind the railing where she couldn’t see him. Her gaze unnerved him, which was odd since not much did. Her eyes were beautiful, one was green and the other blue, but her expression was fierce.

“What are you doing, Obi?” a voice broke through his thoughts and he jumped.

“Err, nothing Master,” he replied, not wanting to mention the girl. Mitsuhide and Kiki were with the Prince as usual.

“Oh really, then who was that you were watching?” Zen laughed and turned to look down in the courtyard. The girl with the black hair was still there, practicing her sword fighting as if she had not noticed the people watching above.

“That’s Ashia, she just begun her training as a knight,” Mitsuhide informed them, “She saved a bunch of soldiers from a group of bandits attacking an fort. They were outnumbered and all the men were injured but she managed to drive the bandits off without a single fatality. She was quite impressive so she was offered a chance to prove herself as a knight.”

“She might prove to be a match against you, Obi,” Zen laughed again, “Or rather a match for you seeing that you are quite smitten with her.”

“Like the Master will give me any chance for fun,” Obi smiled cheerfully, dismissing his previous feelings. “Anyway, don’t you have a girl waiting on you?”

Zen scowl and rushed off. “I wouldn’t if I had a decent attendant who could be on time,” he called over his shoulder.

Obi went to follow but before paused a moment and glance once more at the courtyard. Something stirred within him as he watched the girl training below but he shook it off and continued on his way.

~

Well I hope you enjoyed it! I apologize if there are many mistakes, it’s late at night and I have to work tomorrow, so I don’t feel like going over it. Have a nice night everyone! :)

[kailightarashi]

I love this quote ❤️

[kailightarashi]

This is me

This is me, doing this thing, expanding my horizons, trying to reach out to the world and connect to something new.