While waiting for her parents to return from the local hall of records, Niamh has plenty of time to go over what she needs to tell them.. as well as occasionally checking outside to see if Noboru is really waiting to take them to the shrine. When they finally do return, she practically launches herself at them - telling them what she learned from Miyuki about the original shrine, the nature of the angry (and apparently evil) spirits and how they may be bound to the site, her encounter and apparent defeat of the Akaname that had been harassing bathers - and finally Noboru's invitation to a mandatory meeting with the local kami to get their permission to operate as visiting yokai. She also explains that she could not dissuade either Miyuki or Noboru of the whole yokai thing.
"So we have to go and give offerings.. or sacrifices.. of things that are important to us," she concludes. "Noboru is waiting to escort us." She leaves out the bath-house byplay between herself and the kitsune, along with her 'deal' with him. She's technically an adult by the standards of her home (where the village girls would be married by her age), so doesn't feel it necessary to share all of the details. Especially when she isn't certain if she's being teased or courted. She also doesn't mention the idea that her 'wild yokai spirit' is dormant and just needs to be woken up.
Flynn listens to all of this, looking more and more concerned about everything. "You really should have known better than to talk so much to these spirits; they are very different than those back home, lassie. The mayor of this town warmed me that most of all, kitsune are not to be trusted; errant tricksters at their core. Granted this one seems shrine-bound, which makes it a little different, but still. He's dangerous. I don't think you should speak to him any more."
Comyna chimes in now. "Flynn, dear, you may be over-reacting. He hasn't done anything to anyone we know of yet, and he's a messenger, supposedly. Give him some benefit of the doubt? It isn't like he tried to seduce and steal our daughter away," she says.
"But I want to spend more time with Miyuki," Niamh says, trying to side-step the issue. "And he hangs around her a lot, so I need to at least be friendly. There's a lot to learn about the yokai! The one in the bath-house wasn't anything like the spirits back home. It's like they're filling specific niches."
"He's an animal. He's dangerous. They're masters of illusions. They could," Flynn tries to argue but stops once Comyna places her hand upon his shoulder. "Why don't we let him show us what kind of creature he is instead of believing stories. You know how people tend to exaggerate them," she says kindly.
"Just promise me you won't kiss him or something," Flynn asks of Niamh, sounding defeated.
"They say that we're dangerous and untrustworthy too, father," Niamh claims. "You also told me not to kiss faeries, and no disasters happened when I did."
"No? What about the ones that tried to bring you presents and court you?" Flynn points out. "We did not need a wagon full of mushrooms!"
"Well.. it's not my fault there aren't any wizards or human peers within convenient travel distance," Niamh nearly snaps back. If she were normal this wouldn't be an issue, but having a strong spirit ability is something the family doesn't want diluted.
"What are we going to offer them?" Comyna asks, trying to change the subject. "We did not bring that much with us, and I am not sure what we have that they would even want."
"Blood? Aid?" Flynn suggests, "One of our children?" That last bit comes with a glance towards Niamh.
"I brought a bar of chocolate," Niamh admits. "I've been keeping it wrapped in spirit-infused cloth so it wouldn't dry out." Solid chocolate is only a few years old in Britain.. so it probably hasn't reached this side of the world yet.
"Don't even joke about that!" Comyna snaps and promptly swaps Flynn on the back of the head.
"They already think I'm dangerous," Niamh points out. "And since I exploded an evil ghost this afternoon they aren't likely to think otherwise.. yet."
"The chocolate might work," Flynn concedes. "And we best be going there soon. They don't even trust us enough that they sent that beast to escort us."
"He's very polite and tame," Niamh claims. Mostly so she can prove it by riding on his back.
"He looks like a wolf with three other wolves glued to his butt," Flynn comments.
"But the chocolate is important to me, you might want to offer up something personal," she notes. "Jewelry, or.. uh.. a book?"
"I heard that," Noboru comments from somewhere outside.
Niamh doesn't respond that she's always liked wolves.. but since she's never gotten to meet one it probably wouldn't go over well.
"Lets see what they would accept as an offer, then, and get this over with," Flynn agrees. His wife, though, says, "Do not sound so ... upset over this. It could end up being a great honor and expand our knowledge."
"If they don't like us they'll expect us to leave," Niamh emphasizes. "We can't deal with evil spirits and all of the local yokai! Plus.. I am not getting right back on that horrible ship for another horrible three months at sea." She is very adamant about that last part, looking directly at her father.
Flynn rubs his face, then walks out the door.
"Don't worry, dear. Your father just fears that one of them might drag you away and make you their mate underneath a full moon; and then you might bear a litter," Comyna notes as if the idea is completely silly. "It's a father's nature to suspect all men. Just because this one is on four legs doesn't make him less dangerous." Then it's her turn to head for the door.
Niamh sighs. She knows how to prevent pregnancy after all.. a faerie taught her! She picks up her wrapped bundle of precious chocolate and follows.
"Finished arguing over how we will take your virtues and corrupt you?" Noboru asks from where he lounges outside. His four tails idly flick all about.
"You heard that?" Flynn asks. The kitsune replies by flicking up one tail and pointing at his ears. "There are not just here to look pretty; though that is a plus of having them," he explains.
"Neither of you needs to worry about me," Niamh grumbles. She already accomplished more on her own! Granted, she is a target for things like the Akaname anyway.. otherwise why would it have come out during the day? She goes straight to Noboru. "Just to prove you aren't some dangerous wild animal, let me ride on your back all the way to the shrine," she says. Of course, she only does because she already got him to agree to it, but still.. she feels it necessary to tweak her father, who thought it was safe enough to go on a dangerous sea voyage but he can't trust her to use good judgment! Sure, the faeries back home were.. not quite as manipulative.
"Right," Noboru notes, rises, then shakes himself off. "I am sure that riding me will leave you breathless and panting for more," the kitsune remarks ever so innocently. This makes Flynn's left eye twitch and as he's about to say something, Comyna cuts him off. "It's just a gesture of trust and good will," she says quickly. "She will be on his back. His back."
So Niamh hands the chocolate to her mother, hikes her skirts up to her knees and carefully straddles the kitsune's back. She wonders how to hold on.. because if she doesn't she knows he'll wrap his tails around her 'for stability' or something, but is fairly certain she shouldn't grab onto his ears. So she just tries to make do by grabbing the fur on his neck.
As if reading her mind, two of his four tails flick up and coil about the girl like some great fuzzy serpents, holding her firmly to his back. His eyes narrow, and he smiles. "I will meet you at the shrine," he tells her parents; and before they can argue, he takes off light lightning! Good lord, he can move! The ground is a blur beneath him ... then there is no ground as he leaps up and runs along the top of a stone wall effortlessly. Another leap, clearing twenty feet, and now he's running across rooftops, and leaping between each of them with surprising grace for when he lands, it is never jarring.
"Aahh!" Niamh yells in fear! She's never gone this fast before.. that she could feel! "They.. don't.. know.. the.. way!" she tries to get out through often gritted teeth! She has to lean forward and hug Noboru's neck!
If he hears her, he doesn't act like it! Soon he veers off to the right, taking a completely different path! A massive leap and suddenly he's outside the down. Trees and brush blur by, birds chirp and squawk as they dart out of the way, and that blasted kitsune soon starts bounding between, and off them like catapults, great shoots of bamboo as he takes a more scenic detour through wilderness outside of the town.
"Slow down!" Niamh exhorts him.. not because she thinks it's too dangerous now, but because she can't appreciate the forest. "I want to come back this way later!" she then growls.
"So, which is it? do you want a ride, or to appreciate the forest, hmm?" Noboru asks as he slows down for the moment. "Or if you want both, does that mean you'll owe me a second favor?"
"This was not a proper ride," Niamh says, taking the brief respite to get some of her hair out of her face. "A ride should be dignified! Otherwise you should expect your favor to be just as unexpected in how it is granted." It's hard for her to argue for propriety, she realizes, after parading naked in front of the kitsune earlier.
"Semantics. You were not very specific on your asks, so I interpreted them in a way to entertain myself," Noboru points out and looks back at Niamh, which means she's soon looking into one very crimson eye. "Can you truthfully tell me feeling the rush of the wild was not enjoyable?"
"If I'd been prepared for it I would have enjoyed it better," Niamh counters, still a bit flushed. "It makes me think you're trying to frighten me. I may have to ask Miyuki to.. chide you."
"Oh yes, being chided by her would be so horrible," Noboru barks and laughs. "She's a child." But, at least he is moving a bit slower now, allowing to see the tall trees and bamboo that surround them. It's quiet here, oddly peaceful, with only the occasional bird chirping now.
Niamh has to wonder about that. She has no idea how old Miyuki is, due to the size differences. "How old is she?" she decides to ask in the sudden serenity. She also tries spot any nature spirits, but also wonders if kitsune are predators of other spirits now.
"It is always impolite to ask a woman her age," Noboru points out, "If she wishes you to know, she will tell you." She doesn't spot any spirits immediately, but she does spot a few familiar things. Like a squirrel, and a few rabbits. Also, a strabge looking rock-blob with a head that twitches periodically. Oh, wait, that's not anything she recognizes.
"Is that an animal or a yokai?" Niamh asks, pointing to the.. blob. "And I am sixteen years old," she informs the kitsune.
"That's a kodoma, a spirit that lives in the trees here," Noboru explains. "I am five hundred and sixty-three in your human calendar," he counters.
"What happened to your fifth tail?" the girl asks, and waves to the kodama. She likes tree spirits.
The funny-looking creature's head sort of wobbles a bit and makes a clicking sound. "I sacrificed it," Noboru notes. "It will grow back, eventually."
"What did you sacrifice it for?" Niamh presses, as she looks up into the trees.
As they travel along at a far more slowly place, Niamh spots what looks like the remains of an old Torii gate out here. Much of the paint is gone, and the lower of the two supports at the top has broken in two and fallen down. Then she spots something odder, there's a head peering around one side of the gate, a great, almost equine-looking head, covered in mostly scales, with a single bent arching horn growing from its forehead. It seems to be watching Niamh warily, and the weird part is ... she can't see its back half at all; just the head peering around one of the old posts.
"To save the life of one of my sisters," Noboru answers. "And that's all I will say on it."
Niamh goes wide-eyed at the sight of the.. dragon-unicorn? She knows she's read about this.. "Is that a kirin?" she asks, her accent adding a bit of a lilt to the latter syllable. "Is it afraid of you?"
That post must be like the faerie gates, Niamh thinks to herself. She doesn't want to ask about it out loud.. she doesn't want to give away all that she might know, or not know, all at once.
"Mmm?" Noboru inquires and looks over. "Ah, hello Daiki-sama," he greets the creature. To Niamh he answers, "Yes, that is a kirin. Daiki is his name. He has been here since this forest was young. He does not fear me; it is more likely concern about you."
"Because I'm human, or because I look funny?" Niamh asks. Unicorns should find her charming, she thinks.
"Noboru-chan," the kirin replies in a voice far deeper and more resonate than expected. "You have a monkey on your back. And why are you speaking this barbaric tongue?"
"You should also stay away from that old gate, it is dangerous," Noboru warns. "And yes, because you are human. To him, you are just a hairless monkey that causes trouble."
"Only slightly worse than a kitsune that causes trouble," Daiki remarks rather dryly.
"I don't cause trouble," Niamh promises. "I'm just a young, naive foreign yokai. If Noboru will indulge me, I can speak in a way you will find more civilized."
"It is nice to see you again too, Daiki-sama. Taking a break from acting as Amaratsu's herald?" Noboru inquires. "Quite; I have not had some time to simply be in several hundred of those human years. One of the Ookami is standing in my stead this season," the kirin replies.
"We don't have time to spend speaking with him; you have your parents' to meet up with, and kami to prostrate yourself to," Noboru points out, and sounding terribly, ah, amused about the prospect.
"The gate is a door to the realm of the kami then?" Niamh asks after all. "I've been through something similar back home once before."
"That gate? No, I speak of the temples, and we should hurry now," Noboru remarks and picks up the pace. It's not as fast and wild as it was before, but the forest does start to pass more quickly. Up ahead she can spot a stairway leading up the back-side of the midori shrine.
"I see how it is," Niamh tells the kitsune. "You don't want to share me."
"No, I have duties and being late to see the heralds is not a good way to win their favor," Noboru points out a bit more seriously. Soon he's heading up the back stairs to the shrine, and passing beneath familiar gates that mirror the city side. As they reach the top, Niamh's parents are waiting, panting, and looking mad.
Niamh looks around for Miyuki, partly to avoid meeting her parents' gazes.
The miko is nowhere to be seen. Noboru draws to a stop near Niamh's parents and those two tails that hold her actually lift her off his back carefully and sets her down. They do not release until it seems Niamh's standing on her own, only then do they draw back.
"What was that!?" Flynn actually angrily demands of Noboru. "You could have killed her!"
The girl pats her hair back into place, before saying, "He wouldn't have dropped me or let me be hurt, father. Otherwise the kami would be upset with him."
"Just so. She wishes a ride, and I gave her one that she would remember," Noboru states without sounding insulted in any way. "Now here is were we must part ways for now. Up ahead, inside that pagoda, is the shrine to Inari, one of the kami here, and my ultimate, mmm. She is the God of my kind, and that of the rice harvest. You will meet with two of her heralds; my mother and father. Hiroki and Kana. They are both seven tails, soon to be eight."
Comyna pats Flynn's shoulder. "Come, dear, you know spirits live by different rules. Stop being such an Irish father right now; she is fine, and will have a story to remember," she says.
"We aren't human to them," Niamh says more softly. "We're of the line of the Tuatha de Danann and they recognize that in us. So.. we represent them in this land."
Noboru saunters off, only to hop up onto the top of a Torii gate and stretch out, legs and tails hanging down.
"Then we should get this over with quickly and politely. We are just here to help the innkeeper, nothing more," Flynn says as he slowly lets out a held breath. He paths both of their shoulders, then heads towards the indicated pagoda.
This time Niamh falls in behind her parents out of respect.
They pass into the building; it's dark in here, but ornate from what little she can see. There isn't any wood that isn't carved and lacquered, nor any stone that isn't polished smooth. Ahead is a statue of a beautiful, almost ethereal-looking Japanese woman sitting with her hands in her lap, and large bundles of rice carved in stone stacked around her. "This isn't spooky at all," Comyna remarks softly.
"She's a goddess," Niamh says, struck by the statue.
One by one balls of light flicker into being near the statue. One, two, three ... a total of seven appear on the statue's left, then seven on its right. The air beneath them seems to ripple and bend, then large white fox tails slowly come into view, seemingly growing from the tip down; seven on each side. They join up on each side, then what flows from that are two more foxes, large, ethereal, and glowing with white light that seems to come from their silvery fur. Around the neck of each one is a red sash, and all along their bodies are swirls and streaks of glowing red lines. Each of them peer at the de Sidhe family with intensity; such that each of them can feel the hairs on the back of their necks stand on end. "You speak the barbarian tongue, do you not?" the one on the right of the statue asks; its voice deeper, masculine. "English, it is called, beloved," the one on the left says with feminine tones.
Glancing to her father, Niamh remains silent. So far none of the local English speakers have had trouble with their accents, at least.
"English and Celtic," Flynn says and bows deeply. "And others for a time, if we are allowed to learn it from those we touch."
Niamh follows suit with the bow. Forty-five degrees, bend at the waist she recites to herself. At least until it's time to prostrate themselves.
"You are yokai," the one on the right, probably Hiroki, says. It's not a question. "What brings you to our lands? Are you heralds of an invasion to come?"
"Beloved, do not always assume the worst. Our traditions are that yokai should always come to the local kami immediately upon entering the territory ... but these are from far-away lands. They would not know this," Kana notes gently, one of her tails flicking over to stroke her mate's side gently.
Flynn and Comyna rise, and it's Flynn that answers, "We were asked to come help with the problems at the town inn; the one built upon a former shrine."
Surprisingly, foxes can frown. "It was decreed that this shrine will not help those that desecrate that wish rightfully belongs to the kami," Hiroki says, firmly. Kana interjects, though, and notes, "They are not of our lands, and are not bound by the contracts that we are, beloved. If they wish to involve themselves, it is not an affront to this shrine."
"Be that as it may, there is one tradition that must be honored, even by these yokai. What can you offer to this Shrine and Mother Inari to get her blessing to be here?" Hiroki asks.
Niamh thinks that technically the imprisoned spirits involved themselves with them first, but she isn't about to say it. She looks to her mother, who has the offering. It never occurs to her that chocolate might not be appreciated.
"Ah ... we can offer ... chocolate?" Comyna says a bit hesitantly. "It is a delicacy from our homelands, if it would please you?"
The two heralds look to each other, then nod in unison. "A gift like that would be acceptable for part of obtaining Inari's blessing," Hiroki notes, "But, for children of Danu, that seems a ... cheap offering."
"You could offer your daughter to the shrine; to serve Inari until the end of her days," Kana suggests, tone still gentle. "We both sense what she is, and the potential of what she could be."
That doesn't sound good, Niamh thinks. She supposes bringing up her importance to the continuation of her family line might carry weight. For now though.. she just looks nervous.
"Now just a minute ... " Flynn starts to say, only to have Kana interrupt politely, "Step forward, child. Let us see you."
Niamh steps forward towards Kana, still trying to maintain her bow. Do they smell Noboru on me? she wonders, and if the kitsune misled her about what it meant.
Kana's tails flow out and gently draw Nimah closer, until the kitsune can sniff at her. "You have spent time with my son," Kana notes. "And ... made promises."
"What!?" Flynn blurts out just before Comyna can silence him!
"Your son is very forward and presumptuous," Niamh replies honestly. "He likes to mark me with his scent to tease me, I think."
One of Kana's tails curl under her chin and lifts it so that she's looking in Kana's eyes. "And you like this, do you not?" she inquires.
"I'm not used to that sort of attention," Niamh admits. "It is flattering. If it amuses him, it also amuses me."
"Will you offer to bear him a litter?" Kana inquires. "Wait a minute here! She will not!" Flynn blurts out as Comyna tries to silence him again.
Niamh reacts to that inquiry with a barely held back snicker. "Ah, no, I do not know him well enough," she says. "Only time will let me judge his suitability as a father. Should that time be granted. I owe him a favor, but I was clear it could not be that."
"Then you are not without some sense," Kana says and bobs her head. Her tails release Niamh as she now says, "Would you be willing to offer to look into matters that are difficult for kitsune? Many yokai can sense us and it makes dealing with some matters problematic at times."
"That is agreeable to me," Niamh says. "I think I can hide my presence with some practice."
She doesn't say that she already knows how to be bait.
"Then if your parents' are also agreeable to those terms, and your offer of this ... chocolate, then I suppose that will be an adequate offering to gain the blessing to live here as yokai," Kana says and Hiroki nods. Hiroki turns his head and says, "Miyuki-chan, you can come out of hiding and accept their offer of this delicacy."
There's some noise in the shadows, then a very stiff-legged Miyuki comes from the shadows, trying to not look frustrated that they knew she was there already. "Of course," she says and bows deeply to the two spectral kitsune. "I live to serve."
"You will also keep an eye on this young yokai, there are many that would take advantage of her if they could," Kana remarks. "Yes, like Noboru," Miyuki mutters. Kana's ears flick, then she says with a bit of amusement, "Noboru-chan is a good son and protector. We will not deny him the amusements due to being a kitsune of his stature. He would bring no undue harm to this young yokai and you know this."
Looking to her parents, Niamh notes, "I've been attacked twice at the inn already today. May I spend some time with the Miko before returning?"
"As you say," Miyuki says formally while remaining bowed. Her tone doesn't sound entirely convinced."
"Of course. This place is safe," Flynn says, "And you are being honest you wish to speak to the Miko, and not to the fox-demon?"
"Yokai," Miyuki corrects, sounding irritated. "Demon in your language implies evil. There are many kinds of yokai."
"I want to learn some protection spells," Niamh says. "And I may wish to speak to her about Noboru."
Flynn says, "As you like. But do return before it grows dark. Twilight is when the supernatural grow; you know this lassie."
"Which is why I want to be better prepared before going to sleep," Niamh replies. "After the Akaname incident, the other spirits may be holding a grudge against me."
"You can purchase protection talismans here," Miyuki offers.
"Are they effective on desecrated ground?" Niamh asks. "Also.. I don't have any money."
Flynn and Comyna bow again. "If that is all, thank you Hiroki-sama, Kana-sama, for allowing us to remain. We shall not keep you occupied further," Flynn says. With a worried look from Comyna, the adults leave, leaving Nimah, Miyuki, and two very old and powerful kitsune.
"No money. At all?" Miyuki asks, suspicious.
"I've.. never actually had cause to use money," the redhead admits.
"I don't believe that, at all," Miyuki notes and crosses her arms. "Now ... what did you want to ask me about?" she asks and gestures for Niamh to follow so as to not further impose upon the heralds.
"Well.. protection spells," Niamh says. "And whether I should be panicking about owing Noboru a favor. He's not really interested in human girls, is he?"
"As for the money thing.. uh.. I grew up in a small castle of sorts," she explains. "I never had to buy anything myself."
Miyuki facepalms and rubs her face. "You promised him a favor? What kind of favor?" she asks.
"I didn't exactly agree to it, but he kissed me and said it was a binding pact," Niamh claims. "But I did say it couldn't result in pregnancy."
"What sort of favors does he normally ask?" she asks with a bit more concern.
Miyuki's eyes get wide. "You gave him a promise for virtually any favor he wanted?!" she squeaks out! "I can't .. how .. are you that sheltered? You never promise an open-ended favor to any yokai!"
"I didn't!" Niamh says defensively. "I asked if I could ride him, and he said I'd have to grant him a favor.. but I never actually said that I'd agree, unless asking about the favor did that. So.. do I actually owe him a favor, or is he just trying to trick me?"
Miyuki rubs her forehead again. "You owe him a favor," she admits. "Noboru is a kitsune. While he won't hurt you, he will probably pick something that would make you squirm or feel embarrassed about. It's his nature to poke at those who make foolish agreements."
"But I didn't.." Niamh starts to insist, then throws her hands up. "Well.. once he said it was a done-deal, I figured I could use that in case things didn't go well with getting permission. That maybe the kami wouldn't kick us out until the favor was granted or something. And you'll also probably tell me it was a mistake to let him see me naked."
Miyuki just stares at Nimah. "Have you been hit on the head often?" she finally has to ask.
"A kelpie hit me and dragged me into the lake once," Niamh admits. "It looked like a pony! A really nice pony. But Noboru's a wild animal spirit.. why should I think it would matter to him? I still find it hard to believe he married a shrine maiden once."
"Besides, the bathwater was getting cold," she adds.
"Ktisune take human mates; it's not that uncommon. They were very happy together from what he told me," Miyuki explains as if talking to a small child. Then she has to pause. "You took a bath with him?!?!"
"No, he came in on me while I was in the bath, looking all human and such," Niamh says. "It was after the Akaname attacked me and I made it explode accidentally on purpose."
"Accidentally ... on purpose?" Miyuki has to ask, her head tilting a little in confusion. She sighs again and admits, "You will not survive a week."
"I warned it off with the soap.. and it.. swallowed my arm while I was holding the soap out. So it exploded," Niamh says, waving it off as if trivial. "Why do you have such perverted spirits? Do you know what that thing does with its tongue?"
"Of course I know what it does. It's a harmless yokai. There are far, far, worse ones," Miyuki says as she shakes her head slowly. "Come on, I best make you some talismans of protection lest you die from some sort of freak accident involving tipping a boar."
"You have boars running around loose?" Niamh asks in disbelief. "And you say we're uncivilized?"
"Even your local unicorn gave me the evil-eye," Niamh mutters.
Whatever Miyuki says now, it's muttered in Japanese. She gestures for Nimah to follow, and she leads her off into another part of the temple. She opens a door on her left, then guides her into a spartan quarters which is mostly a rough desk, a stool, a mat on the floor, and a small clothing chest. She sits down at her desk and pulls out several sheets of thin, but long paper. Then she opens a case on the top and takes out a plate, some sticks, and a brush. Next she grabs a bottle of water and pours a little in the indention of the plate, then takes a stick and swirl-rubs it there until the liquid turns solid black.
So of course Niamh leans over the girl's shoulder to watch every step of what she's doing.
Miyuki glances over her shoulder at Nimah a moment. "You have ink in your lands, yes?" she asks as she picks up the brush.
"Of course," Niamh says. "It's the ritual I wish to observe."
"Our ink comes in bottles though," she notes.
"Barbarian," Miyuki claims. She lifts up her brush now and blows a bit on the bristles, making them fan a little.
Niamh could be seeing things, but for just a moment it looks like Miyuki's breath has a faint glow to it that intertwines into the bristles. But, after a blink, it's gone and may have just been a trick of the candlelight. She dips the tip of the brush into the ink, then begins to pain upon those strips of paper, writing out in fluid and delicate movements ... characters Niamh cannot make heads or tails of.
"So, you infuse the characters with your spirit?" Niamh asks, wondering about the glow. "Or with the spirit of your kami?"
"Yes," Miyuki remarks, sounding distracted as she writes, and writes. One strip is set aside, then she starts on the next one ... and writes what looks like the same characters again.
"May I touch the finished one?" Niamh asks the shrine-maiden.
"If you want," Miyuki agrees, then pushes it a bit further away so she can. Soon, she's onto the next one.
Niamh picks up the slip of paper and stares at it. It didn't seem like Miyuki was putting much energy into it, but Niamh tries to sense it anyway.
There's definite spirit energy in the talismans, more than should have been given what little she saw Miyuki do. But, since she doesn't really know the feel of any of the kami of this land, Nimah can't really tell what kind it is.
"Hmmm," the redhead ponders, and tries get a better 'read' on the energy. If it isn't Miyuki's, she isn't sure that she can use it to get an idea of what was actually written, even though it's fresh writing, which should be easier. There must be some pattern, after all - otherwise any mark on the paper would be sufficient, rather than actual characters. She isn't going to risk adding her own energy to something like this.. not yet. "Can you write something for me that isn't.. blessed?" she asks.
The energy and writing are just too alien for Niamh to get much of anything from, other than it is there. Miyuki gives her an odd look at that request, then switches to another brush. This one she doe snot blow on, but instead simply dips it and writes a few characters onto a strip of paper and slides it over.
Setting the charm down, Niamh picks up the new strip and first makes sure there isn't any foreign spirit attached to it.
I can do this, Niamh tells herself. The writing is fresh, the author is right there.. so she begins to put some of her own spirit into the paper to 'boost' the psychic imprint of the writing. Come on, show me what you mean, she coaxes the 'spirit' of the writing.
The paper ... crackles. Suddenly it feels warm ... then it busts into fire in her hands! Which means, now Niamh's hands are on fire.
"Blast!" the girl curses, and pushes her ectoplasm outwards to try and extinguish the fire and soothe her hands.. it's mostly water after all.
There's a surprised burst of Japanese from Miyuki as she almost falls over! "Gah, what are you doing?!" the girl squeaks as she quickly tries to use the handing sleeves of her robe to put out Niamh's hands! It doesn't feel like there are any blisters, but it does feel like she spilled some hot water on them.
"I was trying to read what you wrote," Niamh claims, holding her hands still. "What did you write?"
Miyuki looks at Niamh. "No, you tried to use yokai magic on a talisman that wards yokai from entering the place adorned with these," the Miko points out and waves the tip of the brish at Niamh's nose after she has released her hands. "You did not think that through."
"Wait.. why would you write the same thing.." Niamh starts to ask, then stops. "I was not using yokai magic," she quietly insists. "It isn't magic."
"Yes, it is," Miyuki insists as if she was dealing with a small child. "Yokai magic is using your own essence to affect the world around you; such as trying to read unknown things. You really do not have any idea how to be yokai." That last bit ... Miyuki sounds as if she feels sorry for her.
"Why would I?" Niamh asks in frustration. "Things don't work this way where I come from. And the kitsune keep hinting that they know what I am as if it's something different from my parents, just because I've got some abilities that only show up once a century or so in my family. What do they think I am? What do you think I am?"
"Lost. Scared. And confused," Miyuki answers, a bit more gently this time. "I can't speak for what they think, only what I do."
"Then how about you explain things to me instead of always berating me for not knowing what I couldn't possibly know beforehand?" Niamh asks, her cheeks flushing a bit.
"Because you should know this stuff, otherwise you would have been dead by now. More powerful creatures will prey upon the weak and inexperienced and take their spirit power for their own," Miyuki says, though her voice is gentle about it, "If you haven't been taught anything about this, then someone failed you terribly, or you were just like Noboru's sister and didn't listen. Had he not sacrificed part of himself to her, she would have died."
"Where I grew up, nothing in the forests would harm me," Niamh says. "With a few exceptions, my home's spirits aren't so.. malicious. Not anymore, because we pushed the really nasty ones out. I don't understand how you can tolerate such.. behavior.. from your spirits. You say the old shrine had evil spirits imprisoned because they were dangerous.. yet then tell me the Akaname that was imprisoned there was harmless? Where do you draw the line?"
"He wasn't imprisoned there, he was drawn by the negative energy from those that were," Miyuki explains and folds her hands in her lap. "As for why we tolerate it ... because we believe in allowing all things to be true to their nature. We don't bend nature to some arbitrary rule that we decide on. Only when something becomes a threat to the many do we act on it. Is it right to kill a snake simply because it is a snake, even if it has never really harmed anyone? Or a spider? Or even, say, a fox? I know they hunt foxes in your lands; how do you think that makes the kitsune here feel?"
"Not my lands," Niamh growls. "I'm not from England! They invaded my land. My land's history is nothing but invasions! My ancestors were driven to mystic islands and the otherworld. My family only exists because a few decided to come back. So how do you think it makes me feel when you call my family invaders? We came here to help someone that nobody else was helping. That's who we are! We aren't servants, or wild beasts, or gods. We just want to keep people safe from dangerous spirits."
"Noboru is a dangerous spirit," Miyuki notes, quietly, "So is Daiki-sama. Dangerous and a threat are different. All spirits can be dangerous." She also rises and gestures to the talismans on the desk, adding, "And those talismans made by a servant will keep you safe from any yokai that is a threat. Or at least they should unless it is on par with Daiki-sama or Noboru-sama."
"I didn't expect you to make them," Niamh says. "You said you weren't going to interfere. I thought you'd just teach me how to set up a protection circle. Back home I could do it with some salt, but your spirits just don't seem to respect boundaries."
"I made the talismans. I am not the one placing them," Miyuki points out. "I'm bending the rule in a way that permits me to assist."
"But you couldn't make them for Mr. Tanaka?" Niamh asks.
"No, because he is not yokai, and is is from here, and worships here," Miyuki says. "Since you are not from here, you are not bound by the same rules. It is why none of us have tried to stop you."
"You, long term, do not have to worry about offending a deity here," Miyuki adds.
Sitting down on the floor, Niamh says, "I still don't understand it all. If there are rules, then.. why didn't they prevent that land from being sold in the first place?"
"I'll also talk wit Noboru-sama about releasing you from your promise," Miyuki says, "So that you won't have to have much interaction with us."
"They did. And they chose to ignore them, and thus the people involved in the transaction are being punished," Miyuki explains.
"Humans are not bound in the same way to rules as yokai are," Miyuki explains. "They can break them easier; but they still have to face consequences for doing that."
"I saw some of the forest, and I want to go back there," Niamh says. "I want to learn. I like Noboru, even if he is.. ungentlemanly. I like you even if you don't respect me at all. I'm not a barbarian. I don't expect you to know about my world. Not that you seem to care to, as if not knowing will protect you from it. The British own half the world now. They own my land, and they'll eventually own yours too if you aren't prepared for them."
Miyuki stands. "I am trying to protect you, de Sidhe Niamh," she says politely, and perhaps a bit sadly. "You have seen that this place is not as safe as what you are used to. I am a dangerous person, given my role. I will attract, and deal with things from nightmares, eventually. I am not the sort of person you should want to get close to. Nor do I think you would ever fully understand or accept me if you knew everything about me."
"You're more human than I, by your standards," Niamh points out. "And I already know how dangerous humans are. Ultimately more dangerous than gods and more cruel than evil spirits. But I can accept humans for what they are, Miyuki-san. I just know they can be better. What binds you to this life of darkness, anyway? Yokai can follow their natures, but humans can't?"
"It is ... not something I wish to discuss," Miyuki says and bows her head. "I have other duties to attend to. I cannot stop you, so you can return later if you wish."
"Is there a rule that says you can't have allies or friends?" Niamh asks.
"Not if I don't want them hurt," Miyuki says. "Please, go. I have much to tend to."
"You should try some of the chocolate," Niamh says, and gets up. "It will help you be more cheerful." As she leaves, Niamh can't help but feel a little angry that Miyuki is expected to face enemies by herself. Even if it seems Miyuki is the one putting those expectations on herself. I feel like beating something up, she realizes. She should set some spirit traps when she gets back to her room..
Logfile from Envoy. (OOC) Log start: d:\logs\cjpn\12_08_2017-contracts.htmlWhile waiting for her parents to return from the local hall of records, Niamh has plenty of time to go over what she needs to tell them.. as well as occasionally checking outside to see if Noboru is really waiting to take them to the shrine. When they finally do return, she practically launches herself at them - telling them what she learned from Miyuki about the original shrine, the nature of the angry (and apparently evil) spirits and how they may be bound to the site, her encounter and apparent defeat of the Akaname that had been harassing bathers - and finally Noboru's invitation to a mandatory meeting with the local kami to get their permission to operate as visiting yokai. She also explains that she could not dissuade either Miyuki or Noboru of the whole yokai thing.
"So we have to go and give offerings.. or sacrifices.. of things that are important to us," she concludes. "Noboru is waiting to escort us." She leaves out the bath-house byplay between herself and the kitsune, along with her 'deal' with him. She's technically an adult by the standards of her home (where the village girls would be married by her age), so doesn't feel it necessary to share all of the details. Especially when she isn't certain if she's being teased or courted. She also doesn't mention the idea that her 'wild yokai spirit' is dormant and just needs to be woken up.
Flynn listens to all of this, looking more and more concerned about everything. "You really should have known better than to talk so much to these spirits; they are very different than those back home, lassie. The mayor of this town warmed me that most of all, kitsune are not to be trusted; errant tricksters at their core. Granted this one seems shrine-bound, which makes it a little different, but still. He's dangerous. I don't think you should speak to him any more."
Comyna chimes in now. "Flynn, dear, you may be over-reacting. He hasn't done anything to anyone we know of yet, and he's a messenger, supposedly. Give him some benefit of the doubt? It isn't like he tried to seduce and steal our daughter away," she says.
"But I want to spend more time with Miyuki," Niamh says, trying to side-step the issue. "And he hangs around her a lot, so I need to at least be friendly. There's a lot to learn about the yokai! The one in the bath-house wasn't anything like the spirits back home. It's like they're filling specific niches."
"He's an animal. He's dangerous. They're masters of illusions. They could," Flynn tries to argue but stops once Comyna places her hand upon his shoulder. "Why don't we let him show us what kind of creature he is instead of believing stories. You know how people tend to exaggerate them," she says kindly.
"Just promise me you won't kiss him or something," Flynn asks of Niamh, sounding defeated.
"They say that we're dangerous and untrustworthy too, father," Niamh claims. "You also told me not to kiss faeries, and no disasters happened when I did."
"No? What about the ones that tried to bring you presents and court you?" Flynn points out. "We did not need a wagon full of mushrooms!"
"Well.. it's not my fault there aren't any wizards or human peers within convenient travel distance," Niamh nearly snaps back. If she were normal this wouldn't be an issue, but having a strong spirit ability is something the family doesn't want diluted.
"What are we going to offer them?" Comyna asks, trying to change the subject. "We did not bring that much with us, and I am not sure what we have that they would even want."
"Blood? Aid?" Flynn suggests, "One of our children?" That last bit comes with a glance towards Niamh.
"I brought a bar of chocolate," Niamh admits. "I've been keeping it wrapped in spirit-infused cloth so it wouldn't dry out." Solid chocolate is only a few years old in Britain.. so it probably hasn't reached this side of the world yet.
"Don't even joke about that!" Comyna snaps and promptly swaps Flynn on the back of the head.
"They already think I'm dangerous," Niamh points out. "And since I exploded an evil ghost this afternoon they aren't likely to think otherwise.. yet."
"The chocolate might work," Flynn concedes. "And we best be going there soon. They don't even trust us enough that they sent that beast to escort us."
"He's very polite and tame," Niamh claims. Mostly so she can prove it by riding on his back.
"He looks like a wolf with three other wolves glued to his butt," Flynn comments.
"But the chocolate is important to me, you might want to offer up something personal," she notes. "Jewelry, or.. uh.. a book?"
"I heard that," Noboru comments from somewhere outside.
Niamh doesn't respond that she's always liked wolves.. but since she's never gotten to meet one it probably wouldn't go over well.
"Lets see what they would accept as an offer, then, and get this over with," Flynn agrees. His wife, though, says, "Do not sound so ... upset over this. It could end up being a great honor and expand our knowledge."
"If they don't like us they'll expect us to leave," Niamh emphasizes. "We can't deal with evil spirits and all of the local yokai! Plus.. I am not getting right back on that horrible ship for another horrible three months at sea." She is very adamant about that last part, looking directly at her father.
Flynn rubs his face, then walks out the door.
"Don't worry, dear. Your father just fears that one of them might drag you away and make you their mate underneath a full moon; and then you might bear a litter," Comyna notes as if the idea is completely silly. "It's a father's nature to suspect all men. Just because this one is on four legs doesn't make him less dangerous." Then it's her turn to head for the door.
Niamh sighs. She knows how to prevent pregnancy after all.. a faerie taught her! She picks up her wrapped bundle of precious chocolate and follows.
"Finished arguing over how we will take your virtues and corrupt you?" Noboru asks from where he lounges outside. His four tails idly flick all about.
"You heard that?" Flynn asks. The kitsune replies by flicking up one tail and pointing at his ears. "There are not just here to look pretty; though that is a plus of having them," he explains.
"Neither of you needs to worry about me," Niamh grumbles. She already accomplished more on her own! Granted, she is a target for things like the Akaname anyway.. otherwise why would it have come out during the day? She goes straight to Noboru. "Just to prove you aren't some dangerous wild animal, let me ride on your back all the way to the shrine," she says. Of course, she only does because she already got him to agree to it, but still.. she feels it necessary to tweak her father, who thought it was safe enough to go on a dangerous sea voyage but he can't trust her to use good judgment! Sure, the faeries back home were.. not quite as manipulative.
"Right," Noboru notes, rises, then shakes himself off. "I am sure that riding me will leave you breathless and panting for more," the kitsune remarks ever so innocently. This makes Flynn's left eye twitch and as he's about to say something, Comyna cuts him off. "It's just a gesture of trust and good will," she says quickly. "She will be on his back. His back."
So Niamh hands the chocolate to her mother, hikes her skirts up to her knees and carefully straddles the kitsune's back. She wonders how to hold on.. because if she doesn't she knows he'll wrap his tails around her 'for stability' or something, but is fairly certain she shouldn't grab onto his ears. So she just tries to make do by grabbing the fur on his neck.
As if reading her mind, two of his four tails flick up and coil about the girl like some great fuzzy serpents, holding her firmly to his back. His eyes narrow, and he smiles. "I will meet you at the shrine," he tells her parents; and before they can argue, he takes off light lightning! Good lord, he can move! The ground is a blur beneath him ... then there is no ground as he leaps up and runs along the top of a stone wall effortlessly. Another leap, clearing twenty feet, and now he's running across rooftops, and leaping between each of them with surprising grace for when he lands, it is never jarring.
"Aahh!" Niamh yells in fear! She's never gone this fast before.. that she could feel! "They.. don't.. know.. the.. way!" she tries to get out through often gritted teeth! She has to lean forward and hug Noboru's neck!
If he hears her, he doesn't act like it! Soon he veers off to the right, taking a completely different path! A massive leap and suddenly he's outside the down. Trees and brush blur by, birds chirp and squawk as they dart out of the way, and that blasted kitsune soon starts bounding between, and off them like catapults, great shoots of bamboo as he takes a more scenic detour through wilderness outside of the town.
"Slow down!" Niamh exhorts him.. not because she thinks it's too dangerous now, but because she can't appreciate the forest. "I want to come back this way later!" she then growls.
"So, which is it? do you want a ride, or to appreciate the forest, hmm?" Noboru asks as he slows down for the moment. "Or if you want both, does that mean you'll owe me a second favor?"
"This was not a proper ride," Niamh says, taking the brief respite to get some of her hair out of her face. "A ride should be dignified! Otherwise you should expect your favor to be just as unexpected in how it is granted." It's hard for her to argue for propriety, she realizes, after parading naked in front of the kitsune earlier.
"Semantics. You were not very specific on your asks, so I interpreted them in a way to entertain myself," Noboru points out and looks back at Niamh, which means she's soon looking into one very crimson eye. "Can you truthfully tell me feeling the rush of the wild was not enjoyable?"
"If I'd been prepared for it I would have enjoyed it better," Niamh counters, still a bit flushed. "It makes me think you're trying to frighten me. I may have to ask Miyuki to.. chide you."
"Oh yes, being chided by her would be so horrible," Noboru barks and laughs. "She's a child." But, at least he is moving a bit slower now, allowing to see the tall trees and bamboo that surround them. It's quiet here, oddly peaceful, with only the occasional bird chirping now.
Niamh has to wonder about that. She has no idea how old Miyuki is, due to the size differences. "How old is she?" she decides to ask in the sudden serenity. She also tries spot any nature spirits, but also wonders if kitsune are predators of other spirits now.
"It is always impolite to ask a woman her age," Noboru points out, "If she wishes you to know, she will tell you." She doesn't spot any spirits immediately, but she does spot a few familiar things. Like a squirrel, and a few rabbits. Also, a strabge looking rock-blob with a head that twitches periodically. Oh, wait, that's not anything she recognizes.
"Is that an animal or a yokai?" Niamh asks, pointing to the.. blob. "And I am sixteen years old," she informs the kitsune.
"That's a kodoma, a spirit that lives in the trees here," Noboru explains. "I am five hundred and sixty-three in your human calendar," he counters.
"What happened to your fifth tail?" the girl asks, and waves to the kodama. She likes tree spirits.
The funny-looking creature's head sort of wobbles a bit and makes a clicking sound. "I sacrificed it," Noboru notes. "It will grow back, eventually."
"What did you sacrifice it for?" Niamh presses, as she looks up into the trees.
As they travel along at a far more slowly place, Niamh spots what looks like the remains of an old Torii gate out here. Much of the paint is gone, and the lower of the two supports at the top has broken in two and fallen down. Then she spots something odder, there's a head peering around one side of the gate, a great, almost equine-looking head, covered in mostly scales, with a single bent arching horn growing from its forehead. It seems to be watching Niamh warily, and the weird part is ... she can't see its back half at all; just the head peering around one of the old posts.
"To save the life of one of my sisters," Noboru answers. "And that's all I will say on it."
Niamh goes wide-eyed at the sight of the.. dragon-unicorn? She knows she's read about this.. "Is that a kirin?" she asks, her accent adding a bit of a lilt to the latter syllable. "Is it afraid of you?"
That post must be like the faerie gates, Niamh thinks to herself. She doesn't want to ask about it out loud.. she doesn't want to give away all that she might know, or not know, all at once.
"Mmm?" Noboru inquires and looks over. "Ah, hello Daiki-sama," he greets the creature. To Niamh he answers, "Yes, that is a kirin. Daiki is his name. He has been here since this forest was young. He does not fear me; it is more likely concern about you."
"Because I'm human, or because I look funny?" Niamh asks. Unicorns should find her charming, she thinks.
"Noboru-chan," the kirin replies in a voice far deeper and more resonate than expected. "You have a monkey on your back. And why are you speaking this barbaric tongue?"
"You should also stay away from that old gate, it is dangerous," Noboru warns. "And yes, because you are human. To him, you are just a hairless monkey that causes trouble."
"Only slightly worse than a kitsune that causes trouble," Daiki remarks rather dryly.
"I don't cause trouble," Niamh promises. "I'm just a young, naive foreign yokai. If Noboru will indulge me, I can speak in a way you will find more civilized."
"It is nice to see you again too, Daiki-sama. Taking a break from acting as Amaratsu's herald?" Noboru inquires. "Quite; I have not had some time to simply be in several hundred of those human years. One of the Ookami is standing in my stead this season," the kirin replies.
"We don't have time to spend speaking with him; you have your parents' to meet up with, and kami to prostrate yourself to," Noboru points out, and sounding terribly, ah, amused about the prospect.
"The gate is a door to the realm of the kami then?" Niamh asks after all. "I've been through something similar back home once before."
"That gate? No, I speak of the temples, and we should hurry now," Noboru remarks and picks up the pace. It's not as fast and wild as it was before, but the forest does start to pass more quickly. Up ahead she can spot a stairway leading up the back-side of the midori shrine.
"I see how it is," Niamh tells the kitsune. "You don't want to share me."
"No, I have duties and being late to see the heralds is not a good way to win their favor," Noboru points out a bit more seriously. Soon he's heading up the back stairs to the shrine, and passing beneath familiar gates that mirror the city side. As they reach the top, Niamh's parents are waiting, panting, and looking mad.
Niamh looks around for Miyuki, partly to avoid meeting her parents' gazes.
The miko is nowhere to be seen. Noboru draws to a stop near Niamh's parents and those two tails that hold her actually lift her off his back carefully and sets her down. They do not release until it seems Niamh's standing on her own, only then do they draw back.
"What was that!?" Flynn actually angrily demands of Noboru. "You could have killed her!"
The girl pats her hair back into place, before saying, "He wouldn't have dropped me or let me be hurt, father. Otherwise the kami would be upset with him."
"Just so. She wishes a ride, and I gave her one that she would remember," Noboru states without sounding insulted in any way. "Now here is were we must part ways for now. Up ahead, inside that pagoda, is the shrine to Inari, one of the kami here, and my ultimate, mmm. She is the God of my kind, and that of the rice harvest. You will meet with two of her heralds; my mother and father. Hiroki and Kana. They are both seven tails, soon to be eight."
Comyna pats Flynn's shoulder. "Come, dear, you know spirits live by different rules. Stop being such an Irish father right now; she is fine, and will have a story to remember," she says.
"We aren't human to them," Niamh says more softly. "We're of the line of the Tuatha de Danann and they recognize that in us. So.. we represent them in this land."
Noboru saunters off, only to hop up onto the top of a Torii gate and stretch out, legs and tails hanging down.
"Then we should get this over with quickly and politely. We are just here to help the innkeeper, nothing more," Flynn says as he slowly lets out a held breath. He paths both of their shoulders, then heads towards the indicated pagoda.
This time Niamh falls in behind her parents out of respect.
They pass into the building; it's dark in here, but ornate from what little she can see. There isn't any wood that isn't carved and lacquered, nor any stone that isn't polished smooth. Ahead is a statue of a beautiful, almost ethereal-looking Japanese woman sitting with her hands in her lap, and large bundles of rice carved in stone stacked around her. "This isn't spooky at all," Comyna remarks softly.
"She's a goddess," Niamh says, struck by the statue.
One by one balls of light flicker into being near the statue. One, two, three ... a total of seven appear on the statue's left, then seven on its right. The air beneath them seems to ripple and bend, then large white fox tails slowly come into view, seemingly growing from the tip down; seven on each side. They join up on each side, then what flows from that are two more foxes, large, ethereal, and glowing with white light that seems to come from their silvery fur. Around the neck of each one is a red sash, and all along their bodies are swirls and streaks of glowing red lines. Each of them peer at the de Sidhe family with intensity; such that each of them can feel the hairs on the back of their necks stand on end. "You speak the barbarian tongue, do you not?" the one on the right of the statue asks; its voice deeper, masculine. "English, it is called, beloved," the one on the left says with feminine tones.
Glancing to her father, Niamh remains silent. So far none of the local English speakers have had trouble with their accents, at least.
"English and Celtic," Flynn says and bows deeply. "And others for a time, if we are allowed to learn it from those we touch."
Niamh follows suit with the bow. Forty-five degrees, bend at the waist she recites to herself. At least until it's time to prostrate themselves.
"You are yokai," the one on the right, probably Hiroki, says. It's not a question. "What brings you to our lands? Are you heralds of an invasion to come?"
"Beloved, do not always assume the worst. Our traditions are that yokai should always come to the local kami immediately upon entering the territory ... but these are from far-away lands. They would not know this," Kana notes gently, one of her tails flicking over to stroke her mate's side gently.
Flynn and Comyna rise, and it's Flynn that answers, "We were asked to come help with the problems at the town inn; the one built upon a former shrine."
Surprisingly, foxes can frown. "It was decreed that this shrine will not help those that desecrate that wish rightfully belongs to the kami," Hiroki says, firmly. Kana interjects, though, and notes, "They are not of our lands, and are not bound by the contracts that we are, beloved. If they wish to involve themselves, it is not an affront to this shrine."
"Be that as it may, there is one tradition that must be honored, even by these yokai. What can you offer to this Shrine and Mother Inari to get her blessing to be here?" Hiroki asks.
Niamh thinks that technically the imprisoned spirits involved themselves with them first, but she isn't about to say it. She looks to her mother, who has the offering. It never occurs to her that chocolate might not be appreciated.
"Ah ... we can offer ... chocolate?" Comyna says a bit hesitantly. "It is a delicacy from our homelands, if it would please you?"
The two heralds look to each other, then nod in unison. "A gift like that would be acceptable for part of obtaining Inari's blessing," Hiroki notes, "But, for children of Danu, that seems a ... cheap offering."
"You could offer your daughter to the shrine; to serve Inari until the end of her days," Kana suggests, tone still gentle. "We both sense what she is, and the potential of what she could be."
That doesn't sound good, Niamh thinks. She supposes bringing up her importance to the continuation of her family line might carry weight. For now though.. she just looks nervous.
"Now just a minute ... " Flynn starts to say, only to have Kana interrupt politely, "Step forward, child. Let us see you."
Niamh steps forward towards Kana, still trying to maintain her bow. Do they smell Noboru on me? she wonders, and if the kitsune misled her about what it meant.
Kana's tails flow out and gently draw Nimah closer, until the kitsune can sniff at her. "You have spent time with my son," Kana notes. "And ... made promises."
"What!?" Flynn blurts out just before Comyna can silence him!
"Your son is very forward and presumptuous," Niamh replies honestly. "He likes to mark me with his scent to tease me, I think."
One of Kana's tails curl under her chin and lifts it so that she's looking in Kana's eyes. "And you like this, do you not?" she inquires.
"I'm not used to that sort of attention," Niamh admits. "It is flattering. If it amuses him, it also amuses me."
"Will you offer to bear him a litter?" Kana inquires. "Wait a minute here! She will not!" Flynn blurts out as Comyna tries to silence him again.
Niamh reacts to that inquiry with a barely held back snicker. "Ah, no, I do not know him well enough," she says. "Only time will let me judge his suitability as a father. Should that time be granted. I owe him a favor, but I was clear it could not be that."
"Then you are not without some sense," Kana says and bobs her head. Her tails release Niamh as she now says, "Would you be willing to offer to look into matters that are difficult for kitsune? Many yokai can sense us and it makes dealing with some matters problematic at times."
"That is agreeable to me," Niamh says. "I think I can hide my presence with some practice."
She doesn't say that she already knows how to be bait.
"Then if your parents' are also agreeable to those terms, and your offer of this ... chocolate, then I suppose that will be an adequate offering to gain the blessing to live here as yokai," Kana says and Hiroki nods. Hiroki turns his head and says, "Miyuki-chan, you can come out of hiding and accept their offer of this delicacy."
There's some noise in the shadows, then a very stiff-legged Miyuki comes from the shadows, trying to not look frustrated that they knew she was there already. "Of course," she says and bows deeply to the two spectral kitsune. "I live to serve."
"You will also keep an eye on this young yokai, there are many that would take advantage of her if they could," Kana remarks. "Yes, like Noboru," Miyuki mutters. Kana's ears flick, then she says with a bit of amusement, "Noboru-chan is a good son and protector. We will not deny him the amusements due to being a kitsune of his stature. He would bring no undue harm to this young yokai and you know this."
Looking to her parents, Niamh notes, "I've been attacked twice at the inn already today. May I spend some time with the Miko before returning?"
"As you say," Miyuki says formally while remaining bowed. Her tone doesn't sound entirely convinced."
"Of course. This place is safe," Flynn says, "And you are being honest you wish to speak to the Miko, and not to the fox-demon?"
"Yokai," Miyuki corrects, sounding irritated. "Demon in your language implies evil. There are many kinds of yokai."
"I want to learn some protection spells," Niamh says. "And I may wish to speak to her about Noboru."
Flynn says, "As you like. But do return before it grows dark. Twilight is when the supernatural grow; you know this lassie."
"Which is why I want to be better prepared before going to sleep," Niamh replies. "After the Akaname incident, the other spirits may be holding a grudge against me."
"You can purchase protection talismans here," Miyuki offers.
"Are they effective on desecrated ground?" Niamh asks. "Also.. I don't have any money."
Flynn and Comyna bow again. "If that is all, thank you Hiroki-sama, Kana-sama, for allowing us to remain. We shall not keep you occupied further," Flynn says. With a worried look from Comyna, the adults leave, leaving Nimah, Miyuki, and two very old and powerful kitsune.
"No money. At all?" Miyuki asks, suspicious.
"I've.. never actually had cause to use money," the redhead admits.
"I don't believe that, at all," Miyuki notes and crosses her arms. "Now ... what did you want to ask me about?" she asks and gestures for Niamh to follow so as to not further impose upon the heralds.
"Well.. protection spells," Niamh says. "And whether I should be panicking about owing Noboru a favor. He's not really interested in human girls, is he?"
"As for the money thing.. uh.. I grew up in a small castle of sorts," she explains. "I never had to buy anything myself."
Miyuki facepalms and rubs her face. "You promised him a favor? What kind of favor?" she asks.
"I didn't exactly agree to it, but he kissed me and said it was a binding pact," Niamh claims. "But I did say it couldn't result in pregnancy."
"What sort of favors does he normally ask?" she asks with a bit more concern.
Miyuki's eyes get wide. "You gave him a promise for virtually any favor he wanted?!" she squeaks out! "I can't .. how .. are you that sheltered? You never promise an open-ended favor to any yokai!"
"I didn't!" Niamh says defensively. "I asked if I could ride him, and he said I'd have to grant him a favor.. but I never actually said that I'd agree, unless asking about the favor did that. So.. do I actually owe him a favor, or is he just trying to trick me?"
Miyuki rubs her forehead again. "You owe him a favor," she admits. "Noboru is a kitsune. While he won't hurt you, he will probably pick something that would make you squirm or feel embarrassed about. It's his nature to poke at those who make foolish agreements."
"But I didn't.." Niamh starts to insist, then throws her hands up. "Well.. once he said it was a done-deal, I figured I could use that in case things didn't go well with getting permission. That maybe the kami wouldn't kick us out until the favor was granted or something. And you'll also probably tell me it was a mistake to let him see me naked."
Miyuki just stares at Nimah. "Have you been hit on the head often?" she finally has to ask.
"A kelpie hit me and dragged me into the lake once," Niamh admits. "It looked like a pony! A really nice pony. But Noboru's a wild animal spirit.. why should I think it would matter to him? I still find it hard to believe he married a shrine maiden once."
"Besides, the bathwater was getting cold," she adds.
"Ktisune take human mates; it's not that uncommon. They were very happy together from what he told me," Miyuki explains as if talking to a small child. Then she has to pause. "You took a bath with him?!?!"
"No, he came in on me while I was in the bath, looking all human and such," Niamh says. "It was after the Akaname attacked me and I made it explode accidentally on purpose."
"Accidentally ... on purpose?" Miyuki has to ask, her head tilting a little in confusion. She sighs again and admits, "You will not survive a week."
"I warned it off with the soap.. and it.. swallowed my arm while I was holding the soap out. So it exploded," Niamh says, waving it off as if trivial. "Why do you have such perverted spirits? Do you know what that thing does with its tongue?"
"Of course I know what it does. It's a harmless yokai. There are far, far, worse ones," Miyuki says as she shakes her head slowly. "Come on, I best make you some talismans of protection lest you die from some sort of freak accident involving tipping a boar."
"You have boars running around loose?" Niamh asks in disbelief. "And you say we're uncivilized?"
"Even your local unicorn gave me the evil-eye," Niamh mutters.
Whatever Miyuki says now, it's muttered in Japanese. She gestures for Nimah to follow, and she leads her off into another part of the temple. She opens a door on her left, then guides her into a spartan quarters which is mostly a rough desk, a stool, a mat on the floor, and a small clothing chest. She sits down at her desk and pulls out several sheets of thin, but long paper. Then she opens a case on the top and takes out a plate, some sticks, and a brush. Next she grabs a bottle of water and pours a little in the indention of the plate, then takes a stick and swirl-rubs it there until the liquid turns solid black.
So of course Niamh leans over the girl's shoulder to watch every step of what she's doing.
Miyuki glances over her shoulder at Nimah a moment. "You have ink in your lands, yes?" she asks as she picks up the brush.
"Of course," Niamh says. "It's the ritual I wish to observe."
"Our ink comes in bottles though," she notes.
"Barbarian," Miyuki claims. She lifts up her brush now and blows a bit on the bristles, making them fan a little.
Niamh could be seeing things, but for just a moment it looks like Miyuki's breath has a faint glow to it that intertwines into the bristles. But, after a blink, it's gone and may have just been a trick of the candlelight. She dips the tip of the brush into the ink, then begins to pain upon those strips of paper, writing out in fluid and delicate movements ... characters Niamh cannot make heads or tails of.
"So, you infuse the characters with your spirit?" Niamh asks, wondering about the glow. "Or with the spirit of your kami?"
"Yes," Miyuki remarks, sounding distracted as she writes, and writes. One strip is set aside, then she starts on the next one ... and writes what looks like the same characters again.
"May I touch the finished one?" Niamh asks the shrine-maiden.
"If you want," Miyuki agrees, then pushes it a bit further away so she can. Soon, she's onto the next one.
Niamh picks up the slip of paper and stares at it. It didn't seem like Miyuki was putting much energy into it, but Niamh tries to sense it anyway.
There's definite spirit energy in the talismans, more than should have been given what little she saw Miyuki do. But, since she doesn't really know the feel of any of the kami of this land, Nimah can't really tell what kind it is.
"Hmmm," the redhead ponders, and tries get a better 'read' on the energy. If it isn't Miyuki's, she isn't sure that she can use it to get an idea of what was actually written, even though it's fresh writing, which should be easier. There must be some pattern, after all - otherwise any mark on the paper would be sufficient, rather than actual characters. She isn't going to risk adding her own energy to something like this.. not yet. "Can you write something for me that isn't.. blessed?" she asks.
The energy and writing are just too alien for Niamh to get much of anything from, other than it is there. Miyuki gives her an odd look at that request, then switches to another brush. This one she doe snot blow on, but instead simply dips it and writes a few characters onto a strip of paper and slides it over.
Setting the charm down, Niamh picks up the new strip and first makes sure there isn't any foreign spirit attached to it.
I can do this, Niamh tells herself. The writing is fresh, the author is right there.. so she begins to put some of her own spirit into the paper to 'boost' the psychic imprint of the writing. Come on, show me what you mean, she coaxes the 'spirit' of the writing.
The paper ... crackles. Suddenly it feels warm ... then it busts into fire in her hands! Which means, now Niamh's hands are on fire.
"Blast!" the girl curses, and pushes her ectoplasm outwards to try and extinguish the fire and soothe her hands.. it's mostly water after all.
There's a surprised burst of Japanese from Miyuki as she almost falls over! "Gah, what are you doing?!" the girl squeaks as she quickly tries to use the handing sleeves of her robe to put out Niamh's hands! It doesn't feel like there are any blisters, but it does feel like she spilled some hot water on them.
"I was trying to read what you wrote," Niamh claims, holding her hands still. "What did you write?"
Miyuki looks at Niamh. "No, you tried to use yokai magic on a talisman that wards yokai from entering the place adorned with these," the Miko points out and waves the tip of the brish at Niamh's nose after she has released her hands. "You did not think that through."
"Wait.. why would you write the same thing.." Niamh starts to ask, then stops. "I was not using yokai magic," she quietly insists. "It isn't magic."
"Yes, it is," Miyuki insists as if she was dealing with a small child. "Yokai magic is using your own essence to affect the world around you; such as trying to read unknown things. You really do not have any idea how to be yokai." That last bit ... Miyuki sounds as if she feels sorry for her.
"Why would I?" Niamh asks in frustration. "Things don't work this way where I come from. And the kitsune keep hinting that they know what I am as if it's something different from my parents, just because I've got some abilities that only show up once a century or so in my family. What do they think I am? What do you think I am?"
"Lost. Scared. And confused," Miyuki answers, a bit more gently this time. "I can't speak for what they think, only what I do."
"Then how about you explain things to me instead of always berating me for not knowing what I couldn't possibly know beforehand?" Niamh asks, her cheeks flushing a bit.
"Because you should know this stuff, otherwise you would have been dead by now. More powerful creatures will prey upon the weak and inexperienced and take their spirit power for their own," Miyuki says, though her voice is gentle about it, "If you haven't been taught anything about this, then someone failed you terribly, or you were just like Noboru's sister and didn't listen. Had he not sacrificed part of himself to her, she would have died."
"Where I grew up, nothing in the forests would harm me," Niamh says. "With a few exceptions, my home's spirits aren't so.. malicious. Not anymore, because we pushed the really nasty ones out. I don't understand how you can tolerate such.. behavior.. from your spirits. You say the old shrine had evil spirits imprisoned because they were dangerous.. yet then tell me the Akaname that was imprisoned there was harmless? Where do you draw the line?"
"He wasn't imprisoned there, he was drawn by the negative energy from those that were," Miyuki explains and folds her hands in her lap. "As for why we tolerate it ... because we believe in allowing all things to be true to their nature. We don't bend nature to some arbitrary rule that we decide on. Only when something becomes a threat to the many do we act on it. Is it right to kill a snake simply because it is a snake, even if it has never really harmed anyone? Or a spider? Or even, say, a fox? I know they hunt foxes in your lands; how do you think that makes the kitsune here feel?"
"Not my lands," Niamh growls. "I'm not from England! They invaded my land. My land's history is nothing but invasions! My ancestors were driven to mystic islands and the otherworld. My family only exists because a few decided to come back. So how do you think it makes me feel when you call my family invaders? We came here to help someone that nobody else was helping. That's who we are! We aren't servants, or wild beasts, or gods. We just want to keep people safe from dangerous spirits."
"Noboru is a dangerous spirit," Miyuki notes, quietly, "So is Daiki-sama. Dangerous and a threat are different. All spirits can be dangerous." She also rises and gestures to the talismans on the desk, adding, "And those talismans made by a servant will keep you safe from any yokai that is a threat. Or at least they should unless it is on par with Daiki-sama or Noboru-sama."
"I didn't expect you to make them," Niamh says. "You said you weren't going to interfere. I thought you'd just teach me how to set up a protection circle. Back home I could do it with some salt, but your spirits just don't seem to respect boundaries."
"I made the talismans. I am not the one placing them," Miyuki points out. "I'm bending the rule in a way that permits me to assist."
"But you couldn't make them for Mr. Tanaka?" Niamh asks.
"No, because he is not yokai, and is is from here, and worships here," Miyuki says. "Since you are not from here, you are not bound by the same rules. It is why none of us have tried to stop you."
"You, long term, do not have to worry about offending a deity here," Miyuki adds.
Sitting down on the floor, Niamh says, "I still don't understand it all. If there are rules, then.. why didn't they prevent that land from being sold in the first place?"
"I'll also talk wit Noboru-sama about releasing you from your promise," Miyuki says, "So that you won't have to have much interaction with us."
"They did. And they chose to ignore them, and thus the people involved in the transaction are being punished," Miyuki explains.
"Humans are not bound in the same way to rules as yokai are," Miyuki explains. "They can break them easier; but they still have to face consequences for doing that."
"I saw some of the forest, and I want to go back there," Niamh says. "I want to learn. I like Noboru, even if he is.. ungentlemanly. I like you even if you don't respect me at all. I'm not a barbarian. I don't expect you to know about my world. Not that you seem to care to, as if not knowing will protect you from it. The British own half the world now. They own my land, and they'll eventually own yours too if you aren't prepared for them."
Miyuki stands. "I am trying to protect you, de Sidhe Niamh," she says politely, and perhaps a bit sadly. "You have seen that this place is not as safe as what you are used to. I am a dangerous person, given my role. I will attract, and deal with things from nightmares, eventually. I am not the sort of person you should want to get close to. Nor do I think you would ever fully understand or accept me if you knew everything about me."
"You're more human than I, by your standards," Niamh points out. "And I already know how dangerous humans are. Ultimately more dangerous than gods and more cruel than evil spirits. But I can accept humans for what they are, Miyuki-san. I just know they can be better. What binds you to this life of darkness, anyway? Yokai can follow their natures, but humans can't?"
"It is ... not something I wish to discuss," Miyuki says and bows her head. "I have other duties to attend to. I cannot stop you, so you can return later if you wish."
"Is there a rule that says you can't have allies or friends?" Niamh asks.
"Not if I don't want them hurt," Miyuki says. "Please, go. I have much to tend to."
"You should try some of the chocolate," Niamh says, and gets up. "It will help you be more cheerful." As she leaves, Niamh can't help but feel a little angry that Miyuki is expected to face enemies by herself. Even if it seems Miyuki is the one putting those expectations on herself. I feel like beating something up, she realizes. She should set some spirit traps when she gets back to her room..