An Awkward Book Hunt

[hamnat]

Warning: The following thread contains mature content that is inappropriate for younger audiences. So, if the mods suddenly boot us (which I don't think will happen) because were going to far, that's why. Also, all bunnies have been pre-approved by all parties. If there's any questions on this matter, please PM either one of us. Other than that, enjoy the fan-service!

There's a retired ronin somewhere in Akashima that might have something you could use. An old tome about controlling the mind and body. She can probably help you, like how you helped me.

Tranas' words were still fresh in her mind, determination to see this through holding it in her focus almost every waking moment. She won't be able to help you, bitch. The malicious thought angered her. Arajnehs, I really do hate you. Now shut up and stop trying to interfere. Silence penetrated her thoughts only for a moment, then Arajnehs piercing words shot back out of pure spite. Love you too, bitch. Stop trying to kill me and let me kill you.

Shenjara was furious at Arajnehs chronic impetus. The woman disturbed her greatly, ruining every pleasant moment, driving sleep away just as she was on the verge of Weaving. She hadn't slept in days, and it was beginning to take a toll on her. She'd almost started a fire when a Torch suddenly flared up in her hand two days ago. She'd lost so much control over herself, her spells were doing what they wanted, when they wanted. A couple of weeks before, she'd been driven out of town when Arajnehs managed to sneak a Chill spell through and terrify a whole city street.

It was absolutely horrible. But salvation was close, or so she hoped. The village which Tranas' associate had named, Shiori, was very close. She walked into the village, Kishurin and Mac behind her silently walking. A farmer was carrying a basket full of something which she couldn't see. Shenjara walked up to the man, who eyed her with a little suspicion. "Excuse me, but I'm looking for a ronin woman by the name of Doji. Have you any idea where she lives?" The man looked at her and her companions for a few seconds before pointing to the nearby forest. "Thank you very much. A pleasant day to you and may the Thayne bless your fields."

They walked down the dirt road leading to the forest. It was a peaceful day and there were few clouds in the sky. The sun was bright, but gentle. A cool breeze brushed the grass and fields nearby. It was serene, but Shenjara couldn't appreciate it. Arajnehs had ruined her life, as far as she was concerned. Getting her out of control was her number one priority. She felt bad, though. I've been quite rude to Kishurin and Mac recently...they've been trying to help, but I keep snapping at them. Arajnehs piped up again just to make matters worse. See? Even you're beginning to realize how much of a bitch you really are. We're actually starting to see eye to eye!

A cruel bout of laughter filled Shenjara's head. I'll just have to make it up to them somehow. They'd been walking slowly, but they were already quite close to a house that Shenjara assumed belonged to the Doji family. The ronin's name was apparently Ki, a mother of two and a nine-tailed fox-demon. She was well known is some areas and Shenjara had heard a few tales here and there. Fox-demons with nine-tails are supposed to be exceptionally powerful. I've little doubt she'll be able to help. Arajnehs hadn't given up yet, and she made sure to ruin the brief moment of hope Shenjara had.

Don't count on it bitch. It's supposed to be an ancient tome. She's more likely to be able to tell you how to slice me in two than give you a book to silence me. In an effort to show just how much she could hurt, Shenjara quickly retorted. That's not a bad idea either. And it sounds even more gratifying than merely shutting you up. Nothing came from Arajnehs this time. Shenjara felt victorious, even if only for a moment. She'd finally gotten to her.

[Kishurin]

Kishurin walked calmly along beside Mac and behind Shenjara. His mind was in turmoil however. When they'd first met, their relationship had been great, and they'd taken to one another quickly. But since then, the entity inside Shenjara's head, whom she referred to as Arajnehs, had been destroying her as a person. He'd often wake to find her sitting there, manipulating the flames of their campfire, unable to sleep. And recently, he'd managed to hunt down a deer successfully, but when he brought it back, she was nothing if not critical.

He had returned to being his former self, reserved, introspective, and lonely. He hadn't spoken to her in days, and he rarely said anything to Mac who seemed to be reassessing his relationship with her as well. They saw a farmer on their way, and Shenjara stopped and asked for directions. She certainly was polite enough, but he was sure that the farmer could tell she was not a pleasant person. They had been pointed towards the nearby forest, the apparent location of a ronin who could help her stop Arajnehs from controlling her mind. I hope this ronin can help...I'm feeling more lonely than before I met them. And even if the ronin is able to help, what if she stays the same way?

He didn't know what to do. He wanted to comfort her, tell her that she'd pull through it, but he had become afraid of her. He was so confused and Mac was little help. Kishurin knew Mac meant no harm, but he'd definitely reacted hostilely to her outbursts and her change in personality. And that incident in the street of that one town, What was the name of that town...? They both knew it wasn't her fault, but she and Mac had a row about it. Other than a few stabbing comments, Mac didn't say anything to her either. And he didn't seem to want to say anything to Kishurin.

The forest was pretty, but like Shenjara, he was unable to appreciate it. He could practically feel her anxiety flowing out of her, the sudden swells of anger that he could feel when he was sure that Arajnehs was acting up again. And he could feel her exhaustion. She couldn't control her spells well anymore, but since she'd not had proper sleep in days, she had been helpless when they'd be ambushed by another thief. Shenjara had tried to hit him with a Torch, but nothing had happened. It was very sad to see her practically robbed of her power. And the worst part is that I can't seem to do anything about it...

He felt something different for a moment, a feeling of pure maliciousness, followed by a wave of malicious satisfaction. She'd definitely pulled one over on Arajnehs if she was feeling that way, but the sensation was truly terrifying. It was a nightmare to behold, thoughts and feelings that almost bordered on evil formulating in the mind of an extremely dangerous girl who could snap at any time. Kishurin was brimming with anxiety by the time they could see the door to the ronin's house. There's nothing I can do...

[Axeheart]

Mac kept his peace as they walked towards the village. Mac had really begun to question why he was following her when she was this kind of person. I can understand th' lass is under stress...but i's jus' wrong t' keep takin' i' out on the lad and me. When they'd been waylaid, she'd tripped while trying to defend herself, and after the fact, she blamed Mac for getting in her way, going off on a tirade that left them both shouting.

Mac wasn't without remorse; he'd helped to keep the fire burning and that argument was just as much his fault as hers. Mac couldn't help but feel angry at her, however. Whenever he did say something to her, it was always something like, "Wha'ever ye say, oh great Mistress," or "What're ye gonna do, Torch meh?" He wasn't being very supportive and he knew it.

Kishurin had become withdrawn. According to what he'd told Mac in the past, this was actually worse than his normal social avoidance. The poor lad probly can't tell 'is feet from 'is 'ands right 'bout now...she's go' 'im all rounded up in a circle. Mac didn't know a good way to cheer up moping Scians, though, so he left Kishurin alone to stew in his own thoughts. If only ye were one o' meh clan brothers...

Mac saw the ronin's house ahead on the path before him. He knew that their possible relief was close at hand and that they would soon be rid of Arajnehs, the true cause of all of their problems other than Mac's clan's enslavement. I' will be a very good thin' if th'...ramen noodle...can 'elp 'er out.

[Tsukiko]

Being in heat is no fun. Spring had come and the days were longer and warmer with flowers spouting up and making the garden pretty. But I felt strangely warm with my nose itch as did my nethers making me uncomfortable. I was sitting across from my mother drinking some foul tea that was supposed to calm my body.

“Do you feel any different?” Ki asked as she sniffed the air hoping for a change in scent. The room smelled of my pheromones and it was embarrassing to think I could produce such a scent. My mother’s tails shifted as she waited for an answer.

“I don’t know, my tongue’s numb and I feel like emptying my stomach. But I still feel kind of funny.”

“Ok. So it didn’t work . . . ” Ki looked me over with her tails shifting and then she looked down. It seemed the scent was affecting her too. “I guess the last thing you can do is go take a bath. At least it’ll help a little by washing the scent away.”

“Is that all you can do?” I was rather disappointed that this awful cure had no effect on me.

“Well I’m hoping that the tea will work once you get the scent off.” Ki shook her head a little in pity of my circumstance. “If that doesn’t work, I’m at a loss.”

“I don’t want to go through a whole week like this. It’s hard to sleep or concentrate.” I complained but Ki could only shrug. I got up and bowed. “Thanks for trying.” I went to the bath removed and folded my kimono then dipped into the water and sank in. The warm water felt good, too good really. It tingled against my skin and even made me sigh erotically at the feeling. I really hope mom didn’t hear that. But after awhile it did help as my pheromones were replaced with the scent of the garden’s flowers. Sadly when I got out it would start anew.

[hamnat]

They were very close to the Doji house now. It was a warm place with a red roof and redwood walls, and a wall made of bamboo was on one side of it. The fragrance of flowers filled the air, and it was the first thing Shenjara had enjoyed in some time. This aroma is soothing...I can see why the ronin would live here. It's making me feel happier than I've been in long time. This time, Arajnehs didn't interfere with her enjoyment of the smell. This only compounded her joy. She smiled as she let the wave of bliss wash over her, savoring every ounce she could get.

Serenity was hers as they came to the large door to the house. At peace with the world around her again, she took a deep breath and let it out. She was becoming giddy with the overwhelming floral scents. Hey, bitch! Wake up and don't smell the flowers so much! I'm dyin' in here! Rage flooded through every pore in her body as the comment broke her short-lived happiness. I knew it was too good to last long. And if the smell is so horrible to you, maybe I should breathe even more heavily! NOW SHUT UP!!!

Her fists were clenched tightly; her forearms hurt from the effort of holding them and she could feel her fingernails gouging out chunks of her palm. She slowly released her fists and looked at her right hand. Droplets of blood were growing from cuts in her palm and her fingernails were smeared with her blood. She attempted to calm down enough to knock on the door without sounding rude. After a few minutes of breathing deeply, she was feeling more balanced and rapped lightly at the door.

She looked behind her to catch Kishurin quickly looking away from her to somewhere in the forest. Mac had his eyes directly in front of him; he was determined to ignore her existence. Damn you, Arajnehs...I can't wait to have you shut up for good. A cackle came through. Even if you do learn to suppress me, I'll still be able to haunt your dreams. You won't see the end of me anytime soon. Shenjara waited patiently for someone to answer the door. She had a basic knowledge of how to be polite around people like the Doji family and knew it was important to not seem impatient. She hoped Arajnehs wouldn't make her anger the ronin who she depended on.

[Tsukiko]

I was just starting to relax when I head a knock on a wall. My ears perked up and I could hear my mother stand up and slide open the door. It was strange to expect visitors this time of yeah since everyone’s happy with the spring harvest and everyone has a nice festival. I really wished I could go to a festival, anything other than staying cooped up at home and in heat.

Ki then spoke to break the silence. “Hello and welcome. I’m Doji Ki and this is my house.” I could see my mother bow in my mind. She always bowed when greeting people. Heck she did it so much around me that I took up the habit.

I started to wonder about the guests that came. Would it be merchants looking for a safe and cheap place to rest, pilgrims wanting to speak to a nine tails, a handsome ronin looking to court me? The heat must have brought that last thought. I dreamed of seeing a handsome warrior come in and kiss my hand and carry me off to my room and . . .

Well that day dream seemed to be the final evidence that the tea did not work nor in conjunction with the bath. The warm water did keep my body from feeling funny but my body was soon going to prune and ergo it was time to get out. Leaving the hot spring let the chill nip my body and caused me to shiver and bite my lip. Why does being in heat make even the night air want to tease me?

My mother was speaking again. “So what brings you here this late at night, do you need shelter for sleep or are you lost?” The nine tails asked and my heart started to beat faster and faster.

I went to get a towel and quickly dried myself off and ignore the heightened sensations before putting on my kimono. The scent had returned and I wanted to figure out a way to get to my room without getting noticed by the visitors. But the main hall was on the way to my room, I had to face the visitors.

I walked through the door, unable to keep my cheeks from flushing but at least trying to look graceful. I stepped shyly in and made a bow. “Hi, I’m Tsukiko.” I meant to keep going but I stopped and looked at the guests. They were three people: a cute elf girl, a strong dwarf and a very lovely looking boy. I was a bit stunned and very embarrassed making me unable to move.

Ki looked a bit surprised to see me there standing in the door to the garden. “She’s my daughter; don’t mind her. She’s really nice but not feeling well.”

[hamnat]

The door was opened quickly and Shenjara bowed. The woman gave her name as Doji Ki The ronin... and welcomed them in. Shenjara took the invitation and calmly went in to the front hallway of the house. "My name is Shenjara Flamespire and I-" No, you're name is Bitchy Mizz Flame-tire. Get it right. Arajnehs interrupted. "Forgive me. These are my companions, the Scian ranger Kishurin Misohana and the Dukrav warrior, Mac Axehart of the Krasvert clan. We are here to...request your assistance in a matter most urgent."

Shenjara was trying to be as polite as possible. She wanted to make a very good first impression on the ronin. A young girl in a kimono came into the hallway. She was blushing and clearly shy as she introduced herself. "Tsukiko...a beautiful name to be sure. Are you ill? I might be able to make an herbal remedy for you, if you would like." She wanted to make sure the ronin was inclined to help her, but this was also about the girl. She seemed to be very uncomfortable and Shenjara, for some reason, felt like she should help the girl. The poor thing...I wonder what's wrong with her...I do hope it isn't anything serious.

[Axeheart]

Mac heard the door slide open and looked at the woman standing there. She had ears like a fox and a kimono on. She was beautiful, for certain. At least to other men. Mac, on the other hand, simply saw a woman standing there, apparently the ronin they were looking for. Following Shenjara's example reluctantly, he followed her into the hallway. He kept his reserve as she made introductions, though he definitely felt respect behind Shenjara's introduction of him. Maybe I'm jus' being a crybaby...I guess I could cut 'er a li'l slack...

Another girl in a kimono came into the hallway. She appeared to be out of her element and very embarresed; her cheeks were as red as roof above their heads. She seemed ready to run out of the room at any second. He did feel sorry for her. Such an unfortunate event that the girl before them was feeling under the weather. He shook his head for a moment. What am I thinking? People feel bad all th' time, i's nothin' new or depressin'. Ge' a 'old o' yerself. And he was back to himself, alright. He couldn't smell the pheromones or know they were there, but he had been affected by them. Luckily, the Dukrav have a resistance to the allure of other races, so they weren't so bad on him.

[Kishurin]

Kishurin was lost in his thoughts as the door opened, so he jumped a little. The ronin was pretty, as he'd heard. She welcomed them warmly, offering them her hospitality. He gladly walked into the radiant house, which was just as warm and inviting as its owner. The floors were well cared for and cleaned, the walls were pristine, and the smell of flowers filled the air. There was another smell, but it was so slight, Kishurin couldn't recognize it.

Shenjara made the proper introductions, appearing a good deal stiffer than normal. A young girl entered, a kimono wrapped around her lithe body. Her hair was red like Shenjara's, but it was more orange than fiery. She was short and clearly agile. She was, overall, adorably cute. Her shy voice only betrayed her, adding to her charm. She seemed to be embarrassed and uncomfortable. Kishurin felt a tingling sensation in his limbs, and he felt light-headed. What is this feeling? It's like nothing I've felt before...

This new sensation only increased his attraction. He greatly enjoyed new feelings, and this one was absolutely giddying. He couldn't hear much of anything but her name stuck in his head. Tsukiko...how lovely...

[Tsukiko]

I really regretted going through the door since now I was the center of attention. The guests even forgot about their urgent need and were focused on me. Shenjara was the only one to speak to me as the others were silent. “Please, no more herbs.” I felt my belly cringe at the thought of another herbal drink. “Oh, Umm. Thanks but I tried herbs already.” I corrected myself as my mother made a glare at me. I really didn’t like the place that I was in. “I’m really sorry, just I tried some herbs and they didn’t work. Sorry I didn’t mean to offend, you’re probably a great herbalist.”

I was digging myself a hole. If this kept up I’d have to reveal to the guests that I was in heat. It was embarrassing to have them staring at me. Well Kishurin’s staring was nice in the least. It seemed like he was interested in me. Too bad the dwarf was rather scornful. I was really wanting to keep my present state a secret between me and my mom.

I wanted to run away but that would have been rude then my mother saved me from the attention. She smiled and swished her tails in a manner. “Um pardon me but I think we were talking about something most important. I am quite glad you’re taken with my daughter’s beauty but I would really like to know what I can help you with?” She then turned to me and winked. “How about you go fetch some green tea.”

I was glad to have the respite, being the in heat and the center of attention felt like being in the stocks for stealing candy. Getting out of there to brew some tea and let everyone concentrate at more important business than my spring rut. I brewed the tea and let the smell tickle my nose, another pleasant scent to go with the flower and bury my pheromones. While the tea brewed, I found myself thinking of the azure haired stud and his sweet smile. Maybe being in heat wasn’t all bad. Once the tea was done, I came out and poured a cup for everyone and sat and listened to what the guests needed and hoped that they wouldn’t be wondering what was wrong with me.

[hamnat]

When the girl left the room, Shenjara suddenly felt...less. She didn't care as much as when the girl was there, as though the girl was eliciting those feelings which she had forgotten for so long. Her mind was suddenly clear and focused, albeit shaky because of Arajnehs permanent chaotic drive. What was I here for again? As though to shatter the brief sense of self-control, Uh..being a bitch? Wake up, no-brain! You were here to shut me up, remember?

She suddenly remembered and let Arajnehs snide comment slide; she would save it as ammunition for later. She sat at the table, which probably made of oak and had a banzai tree in the center. "Yes, we are here on the recommendation of a former associate of mine who said you would be able to help me. I'll go ahead and get straight to it because otherwise the problem will rear her ugly little head." Taking a sip of the tea she'd just been served, she paused and told the girl thank you. The smell of the tea seemed to block out the pheromones because the girl's presence wasn't affecting her like before.

"It would seem I am no longer in control of my mind. It is being held hostage by someone else: someone who is very hostile towards me, and I cannot rid myself of her. She has been reeking havoc on my mind for months now. It wasn't much trouble to begin with, but she's been becoming more and more vicious. I haven't slept in days and I've rarely had a moment of happiness or inspiration in two weeks." She took a break here to sip her tea some more and allow the information to sink in. She took a deep breath before continuing, "As I was saying, she's been destroying me as a person. My two companions will hardly even look at me, let alone talk to me anymore; I've snapped at them and been cynical and condescending almost every day because of this. I'm honestly surprised they are still within a city of me."

And if I have MY way, they won't want to be anywhere on the same continent when I'm done with you. Oh wait, I never will be done! Arajnehs cackled horridly inside her mind. Shenjara continued to ignore her. "This is the part where you come in. According to my associate, you have an ancient book that teaches the practice of complete meditation. It is said that with this book, a person can control both their mind and body with full strength and hold. I would be willing to do whatever you ask of me to get this book." Shenjara took another sip, savoring the flavor which was a little bitter but pleasant anyways. She felt it go down her throat and rest inside her stomach where it made her whole body feel at ease. Her muscles relaxed, her mind eased, and her heart slowed a little. It's a good tea...no matter what YOU may say, Araj.

[Kishurin]

Kishurin's mind was ablaze with confusion. Something about that girl made him feel light-headed. He could hear his heart beating in his chest and tingling sensation all over his body. He'd never felt this combination of feelings before. He quietly followed the others to the table and sat down. The girl came out just as Shenjara started speaking and poured everyone a cup of tea.

As she came by to pour his cup with the bitter tea, he inhaled softly. There was a scent there that was appealing to his nose, making him feel funny all over. He was giddy with the smell of this girl next to him. It seemed forever passed while she poured his tea. He was almost certain she'd poured his slowly on purpose. What is this? Is this the feeling humans and elves call "love"? No...It couldn't be...

He watched her moving in the corner of his eye as she bent to pour Mac's tea. Her form seemed so delicate, like a lily in bloom. Kishurin couldn't help but feel like the ronin was watching him, so he hung his head a little to conceal his eyes and watched the girl more while she sat on the other side of Mac. She's so...what's the word? Awe-inspiring. No...that's not it... He didn't really care about the word though, so he dropped the though right there. What he cared more about was that he was sure she was stealing glances at him, too.

[Tsukiko]

I stayed quiet as I sipped the tea and occasionally glanced at Kishurin and even smiled at him before turning away, blushing. Right now I had nothing to do but sit there and listen. Shenjara needed a special book from mom and Ki seemed to know what book.

“I do have a book on meditation. By the great monk Zu but I don’t think it’s what you want.” Ki looked serious for a moment. “While the book you want is by Zu but the man that gave me this book said it wasn’t the legendary book of the Great Void. That is the book that you want and there’s only one copy.”

I was surprised to hear that mom knew a lot about such a rare book. Not that she didn’t read but all I knew that she had been books about adventure and poetry. Ki loved Poetry but really was a terrible poet. I’ve heard some of mom’s poems and they made anyone cringe.

“I do think I know where the book is. There’s an old monastery that Zu lived at and it had fallen to Oni after he had died. If the book was anywhere, then it’d be there. But it won’t be easy to get in.” Ki drank a bit of her tea, she looked a bit grim as she looked at the trio.

I was feeling a little different now. No longer did I want to be alone. I wanted to be alone with Kishurin. But it felt like he was going beyond my grasp to go and fight with the demons for the book and for his friend. Were they more than friends? I was starting to get jealous at that thought. No, I didn’t want to lose him yet, I was sure that his looking at me was more than just thinking I’m cute.

I had to act. “I’ll go with them. That way it’ll be sure they’ll be safe.”

Mom’s ears stood strait up as she was staring at me. “Honey, are you sure? You’re not in the condition to go out to such a battle. You know you are . . . ”

I wanted to crawl in a corner. I knew she would say I was in heat, but I didn’t want Kishurin to know, not yet. “Please mom, I’m better now. That tea helped and you know I’m good with a sword.”

Ki looked at me hard and was probably thinking of sending me to my room but then she relented with her ears flattened. “Well it’s up to you. Don’t do anything stupid now. I know you’re a woman now and go on adventures and make your own way but please think of me before you get your self in trouble.” I hated the way her voice had the weariness of defeat in it. But I wanted to be with Kishurin now. It was the only thing going good for me now.

[hamnat]

Shenjara wasn't too keen on the girl coming with them. She was, after all, quite young, and she was ill too. The girl was insistent to her mother, however, so Shenjara figured it wasn't worth the effort and said, "You are a renowned ronin, Miss Doji. I'm sure your daughter will be able to handle herself. We will all be in good hands, together." She looked over at Tsukiko and with a smile, said, "we would be honored to have you accompany us."

She looked over at Kishurin, who didn't seem to have any objections to her statement. Mac looked a bit uncertain, but she flashed him a look that said, "Just go with it." Apparently, he caught it and let it slide. Shenjara returned her attention to Ki. "Thank you very much, Miss Doji. If we get through this in one piece, I will be deeply indebted to you. We will keep your daughter as safe as we can, though I'm pretty certain she'll be saving us more often than not."

I really hate you... Arajnehs was whining again. I told you she would help. She might not have the book with her, but she knows where it is. Besides, at least she's not teaching me how to disembowel you with my bare hands. She put as much sarcastic emotion on that last sentence as she could. Arajnehs only said, I-I...uh... before being silent again. That's how I thought you'd feel. You are learning well, hehe.

[Axeheart]

Mac really was not certain of a young girl in her state going with them to battle apparently powerful monsters. He was going to protest, but he saw Shenjara give him a look that clearly was telling him to shut up. He didn't want to have another row with her, so he conceded defeat and let the matter go.

Mac didn't really let it go, but thought a little about Shenjara. She really wasn't much older than Tsukiko was. An' if ye coun' her elven blood in there, she migh' jus' be younger than the other lass...An' well, she is an well-known ronin's daugh'er. I s'ppose she woul'n't be too much trouble... After thinking about it like that, it was probably the best thing for them. If they did encounter something dangerous, she could be there standing next to him, beating back the enemy. Everythin' 'ill be alrigh'. Don' sweat i'.

Mac stood up and went over to the young girl. He held his hand out and said, "My name's Mac Axhart, a smith an' a warrior, which is probly obvious based on my appearance, isn't i'?" Migh' as well make a formal introduction if we're gonna be travlin' together.

[Tsukiko]

“It’s good to be by your side, Mr. Mac. I promise that I won’t get in the way.” I bowed and grabbed my blades. Somehow they gave me a bit of comfort. I might be in heat but I still could be very mean with a blade.

It was a good thing that they were going to take me along. Not only was I going to get out of the house, I got to be with Kishurin too. I smiled at the gang, mostly Kishurin and even had the bravery to wink at him. My tail was swishing hard and my mom watched it.

“I won’t stop you but if it’s too dangerous, run away. That’s for all of you.” Ki said with worry mostly for me but for my new friends as well.

“I know mom. You said that when I first left.” I giggled and hugged her. It felt far too good when our bodies touched and the way her breasts touched mine sent tingles through my body was too much. I really felt guilty and was both disappointed and glad that we let go. “I’ll make you proud.” I reassured her that I wouldn’t do anything stupid. Though I really wasn’t sure if I could resist doing anything stupid as far as Kishurin was concerned.

I strode out into the night air of the outside. Again the Chill felt great and made me shiver as we left into the forest. I always loved the spring nights in my home. The woodlands were cool and quiet but not too cold and there weren’t any bugs out to annoy me.

While walking I found my self gravitating to the blue haired love. With the way I felt it could have been love. I smiled into his lovely jet eyes that seemed to swallow me in. “I know I haven’t said much to you.” I was now shivering from nerves and not the night air. “But I think I really like you a lot. Like . . . ” I wanted to say love at first sight but I stopped. Shenjara and Mac were there and I didn’t know how they would act. I probably gave it away already but nonetheless I couldn’t complete my thought and only blush.

[Kishurin]

After a heartfelt farewell between the mother and daughter, Tsukiko prepared to leave with them. There were a few "thank you"s here and there and the four of them left together, Shenjara in front, Mac behind her with his hand on the pommel of his sword, and Kishurin with his hands in his pockets. Tsukiko wasn't very far behind him and was getting closer with every minute. He could feel her eyes drilling holes in him. A strong desire flowed from her, a passionate desire that couldn't be sated.

Kishurin couldn't help but blush as he thought about her reactions to him. He almost jumped out of his skin when she told him that she liked him. That's no normal "liking"...I think she's actually falling for me...or whatever it is that humans say here. He turned his head to look at her. She was a deep shade of red, one to rival turnips. His voice faltered and he also blushed as he said, "Oh, that's really nice. I...like you too, Tsukiko...we can be good friends, ok?" Somehow Kishurin got the feeling that wasn't the response she was looking for.

[hamnat]

Shenjara hadn't wasted much time in the ronin's house after their conversation. A few formalities, some friendliness, and a good farewell was pretty much it. They were on the pathway Ki had pointed out to them. It was quite overgrown, which was believable since, according to Ki, it hadn't been used in decades. Somehow, though, the path had remained distinguishable. Mac was right behind her, Kishurin behind him, and their blush-prone ward was behind him.

Shenjara's ears picked up something that shocked her and Arajnehs to the core. "I really like you..." Oh my goodness...it's so adowable!! Don't you t'ink so too, bitch? Shenjara cringed and sent a wave of hatred at Arajnehs. I swear if you call me "Bitch" again, I will personally dismember you. More silence. It seems you've been making incredible progress today, Araj. Well done. There was no cynical retort, which pleased her immensely. Still though...they've just met. They don't even know anything about each other yet...Does this have anything to do with what Ki was referring to earlier?

She looked back and saw the two of them, both as red as beets. Mac seemed to be doing a great job at keeping his reserve, but she could tell he was finding the show terribly entertaining. She looked back at the path and just barely missed hitting her head on a low branch. For some reason, she felt a small pit in her stomach. What is with this? The others don't seem to be reacting badly to the tea, so it's not that...I can't think of anything... She heard Arajnehs chuckling in her head. You know, this time, I think I WILL keep my mouth shut. You can figure it out on your own. Shenjara was frustrated. It was the worst time Arajnehs could have refused to speak her mind.

[Axeheart]

Mac kept his mouth shut the whole time. He had nothing to say other than his name. With that out of the way, he kept to himself. Once they got on the road though, he could almost taste the awkwardness behind him. Listening to the two of them was like watching two cats play with a mouse. This is absolutely hilarious! Two li'l 'uns infatuated wi' each other. I's so sweet! Hahaha!

Mac almost choked when he tried to hold his laughter back. Luckily, he didn't seem to draw any attention from the other two. The path they were walking on was very erratic. It was wide here, narrow here, there was a tree in the way here, etc. It was also starting to get dark. They'd been walking for a while and the sun had already gotten low. Mac looked at Shenjara. She was quietly walking up in front, probably engaging Arajnehs in another mental battle. Th' poor lass...If there was someone in my 'ead...well...i'd be pre'y bad... Mac pitied her. She faced the hardest trial out of them all.

[Tsukiko]

Disappointment had bitten me hard. Kishurin had only wanted to be friends with me. I did want to be friends with him but I needed to be more. My body cried out with sensations of desire. I needed Kishurin as more than just a friend. I needed him.

The cool night air was of little comfort as it stimulated my body and made my nipples hard and sensitive to even just wearing a kimono. It just didn’t seem right to be so close and to want someone so much but to have him in my grasp.

I needed to work quickly, for I didn’t know how I could fight with my body acting up like this. I needed to do something to get Kishurin tonight and before we would fight the Oni. I looked to the beautiful ranger and then to his companion. I needed for us to stop. “Hey!” I called out to get everyone’s attention. “We should camp and rest until morning before we get to close. Oni are quite dangerous and we need to be in top shape for any fighting with them.” My tail was twitching like mad and my heart pulsed so hard I could feel every throb throughout my body.

I really hoped that they would set up camp. It was only my first move in getting Kishurin. I would also have to get him away from the companions so we could be alone. I would really hate to see how mom would act if either Shen or Mac told my mother. My bottom would be cherry red for a while if Ki got wind what I was plotting to do.

While I prayed for stopping with one part of my mind the other sized up the prize. Kishurin was a pretty man, very young looking and his skin looked as soft as mine. I wanted to feel his hands all over me and to have my lust sated. Oh, I felt like I had a fever all over my body and it clashed with the chill night air to keep me focused on the funny feelings of being in heat. This whole mess would be worth it if I could just get Kishurin.

[Kishurin]

It was beginning to get hard to see. The sun had gone down and the thickness of the trees around them blocked much of the moonlight. Kishurin didn't want to say anything to the others, but they needed to stop and make camp. Luckily, Tsukiko yelled out that they needed to camp. She's smart, too. Why does a girl like her get sick? What did she ever do to the disease?

Kishurin laughed at his little joke. Then he noticed something. There wasn't enough room to camp. The path was so small that they couldn't set themselves up to rest comfortably. This was something he felt he needed too say, so he quietly said, "Um...there's...um...nowhere to camp at...What...are we gonna do about that?" He was unsatisfied with himself again. Why must I always mumble and stutter? I'm so worthless... He looked at Tsukiko for a moment, wondering what she was thinking about. She seemed a bit sad, but she flashed him a smile, as if to say, "That's a good point. Good thinking, Kishurin!" He felt better and began to think hard about what they would do to find a good spot...or make one.

[Axeheart]

Mac took a moment to think about this new problem: How to Make a Campsite on an Overgrown Trail. Shenjara could burn us a spo' t' rest...nah...she migh' create another fire. Hmm... Mac sat down and his weapons thudded on the ground. He looked at them with a smile, then a perceptive look. Maybe I could...yeah..tha's it! Hehe...good ol' Mac Axhart. Mac stood up again and took his axe off his back.

"OI! Everybody stan' back a bi'. Ye really dinnae wanna ge' hit by this thin'!" He heaved his axe when everyone was clear, and then slammed it straight into the side of a tree. Apparently it was dying because it fell almost immediately. Mac had to leap out of the way to avoid being crushed. He gave a chuckle as he stood back up. "I'd be'er be careful. Hey, Kishurin, Tsukiko, see if ye can clear out some o' the lighter stuff with yer swords. Shenjara, try and se' up a good camp fire wit' th' stuff we chop down, okay?" He slammed his axe into another tree and yanked it out of the wood. Hehe...good ol' Mac Axhart.

[Tsukiko]

It was a good thing they were setting up camp, but did they really have to cut down trees to make a camp site. Sure Mac was strong with his axe but it seemed to be his idea to wage war on the plant life to make it a suitable camp. I myself preferred to let the plants be my pillow and bed. Sleeping in a tree can be quite a nice experience if you can find one that can support your weight.

The thought of taking Kishurin into a tree stirred my mind but it was swatted down. I really doubted that either of us could hold the balance in the throws of passion and I was going to have to settle for the ground, if only I could get away with my love. It seemed that the small man wanted to put us to work clearing out long grass and brush to make space for camp.

I really only wanted Kishurin and a soft patch of grass to mate on and fall asleep on, no need to clear out the brush. But that’s what the group wanted and I had to play along for the moment. My blades were not meant for cutting grass but they were sharp and did the job without complaint. I wasn’t so stoic, holding in my whining about the waste. Really why couldn’t they just sleep under the star and let nature make their bed. If they wanted to be comfortable, they could have stayed the night in the den.

But that was not so and I had to wait for Kishurin and figure out a way to take him. I know Mac and Shen would not be pleased to see us making love. We needed a place private. My body was growing hotter as time went on. I really wanted to just throw my kimono to the wind and pounce the ranger with a hot kiss.

But I had to wait and clear brush in the mean time as I promised myself it would be worth the wait. It would be worth it to sprit Kish off into the forest for a night of bliss.

[Kishurin]

According to his idea, they all began to work on clearing space for a camp. Tsukiko seemed to have something she wanted to say, but she either changed her mind or forgot about it. She seemed anxious about something, as well. He pulled out his sword, an unremarkable weapon they had found in a den of thieves. Standing alongside Tsukiko, he slashed at the easily cut grasses and weeds. He saw a beautiful purple flower that would have been right in the middle of the camp, so instead of blindly destroying it, he bent down and cut it low.

He took the flower and turned around, offering it up to Tsukiko with a smile. She seemed almost starstruck for a moment, but she took it gracefully. Were her hands just shaking? She gave him a sweet smile and quickly turned around and continued slashing at the brush with renewed vigor. Kishurin, also empowered by this, also began to attack the brush, slashing and dancing. He was in a major battle, surrounded by numerous grassy enemies. But he wasn't alone, because Tsukiko was right there, fighting that battle with him. It feels so pleasant.

[hamnat]

Kishurin had come up with a pretty good idea. She looked up, reminiscing of home, where she and Joran would sleep in the tree branches on warm nights, counting and naming the stars. But the others probably couldn't keep their balance. Mac definitely wouldn't be able to stay up there, though Tsukiko probably could. It was a shame, really, to cut all these plants down. But they would have a stable campsite, and it would hopefully remain there for anyone who came this way again.

They'd built a large pile of cuttings by now, Kishurin and Tsukiko smilingly bringing grasses and weeds to the pile Is that a flower in her hair?, and Mac TIMBER!! dragging and dodging fallen and falling trees. She could tell it wasn't good for his axe-blade, but he would probably sharpen it afterwards. Right now, it was her job to make both a campfire, and to get rid of the cuttings.

She took and moved everything to the center of where the finished camp would be, and then prepared to burn it. She would use a low-power spell for this to avoid wasting energy on such a mundane task. She had an incantation prepared for a small-energy torch. "Kuranai alsrantokif" The burning ball once again engulfed her hand, smaller and with less light than normal. Unlike the normal Torch, which itched and scratched at her arm if she tried to hold it, this one tickled her delicate skin, it's power flowing and caressing instead of biting and irritating. She knelt down and pushed it into the pile of brush, releasing it with a thought. Well, my job's done...what now?

[Axeheart]

The regimen was quite static. Chop, yank, chop, yank, chop, yank, which was distorted by the occasional falling tree which managed to work its way into falling towards Mac. It was quite boring...Chop, yank, chop, yank, chop, yank, dodge the falling tree, grab the tree and drag it to the pile of dead plants (luckily the trees were young, thin, and light), walk to another tree, start again.

Occasionally he glanced at the two blossoming swordsmen, or rather swordsboy and swordsgirl, as they cut away the lighter stuff. Kishurin seemed to have become quite enthusiastic, like he was putting on a show for Tsukiko. He was practically performing a battle dance, something he'd seen only in the elite Dukrav warrior group, the Larstet. He had nowhere near their skill, but it was still reminiscent of their deadly dancing about the battlefield. If only he could mee' them, they might le' 'im learn their secre's. Then 'ee'd be a magnificen' warrior. He pondered this for a minute, then shrugged his shoulders and got back to work.

They'd cleared a large circle centered on the path, a clearing large enough to support a comfortable camp, complete with raging bonfire and sleeping people. There was already a roaring fire where they'd dragged all the brush and fallen trees, but it was becoming tamer as the lighter, more quickly-burning stuff burned away. Mac wiped his forehead and said, "Alrigh', goo' work everybody. We've made a good campsite for us an' anyone else who comes this way. Now le's relax an' enjoy the evening. Look! Ye can see th' stars through th' new openin' in th' trees." It was an all-around pleasant place to camp.

[Tsukiko]

The campsite was complete for we had cut down every little tree, shrub and grass asunder to leave a relatively flat area for a fire and sleep. Sweat glistened against my body as I leaned against a tree and looking over Kishurin. It seemed silly to get through this camp making but for him it would be worth it. All I had to do was use my foxy cunning to get the privacy to mate. I could wait for the other two to go to sleep and try to stay quiet, but the elf girl wasn’t going to sleep anytime soon. She worried me for being so quiet. She had some problem that this book was hopefully going to cure. But she was the main problem for now. There was no way I would have a chance to mate with Kishurin here.

I blushed and swished my tail. I had to take Kishurin with me. “Umm . . . I know something that could help us on our quest.” I suggested a lie. More like a half truth since I would be a little more capable if my seasonal lust was sated. “You guys stay here and I’ll take Kishurin in case something will happen.” My heart raced as I tried to stay normal and look Shen and Mac in the eyes and look honest. But I was quick to grab Kish’s wrist and lead him out into the forest.

I was happy to be in the trees and away from the wreck we made for a night’s sleep. It was nice to smell the night air, sakura blossoms and Kishurin’s subtle sweat even through my own scent. He looked so pretty in the moonlight like a god of the stars come to bring the world joy.

I dragged my star god under a flowering cherry blossom tree and looked into his dark eyes. There was warmth in him and I could feel it as I held him close. He was soft and strong and it brought me great comfort and edged my body a little bit before bliss. “I think I love you.”

Those words meant the universe to me at the time and the fox blood in me wanted it to be true. A fox would promise herself to her mate until death but there was a part of me that wasn’t sure if I wanted that. My mother was a wanderer before fox, she had finally settled down but did not have one mate. I really wasn’t sure if I could follow her path. I wanted Kishurin and I wanted him for life.

I winked with a mischievous smile. The feeling that we were doing this without my mom or Kish’s friends knowing gave a thrill to the whole romance. I was impatient and simply let my kimono fall to the ground and reveal myself to the beautiful man. My tail wagged as hard as my heart was beating and I almost pounced on him. But there needed to be a little more fun. I was giggling as I laid my body against the cold ground and grabbed some fallen petals to sprinkle over me like some exotic dish. “Please mate with me tonight.” I begged as I laid there covered in flowers and my tail twitching over my lower region to hide it from his view as well as tickle me further into arousal.

[Kishurin]

They had finally finished the campsite. Kishurin's blade-dance had left him somewhat exhausted, but he could still go for a little while longer. Tsukiko was continuously smiling at him with her deep, beautiful red eyes. Then, she mentioned that she knew of something, apparently in the forest, that could help their quest. Shenjara and Mac looked a bit surprised that she only wanted Kishurin to go with her, but they didn't protest and simply said, "By all means, do what ever you must." He could tell they didn’t believe her, but they didn’t seem to really care.

Suddenly, Kishurin felt Tsukiko's hand on his wrist, and he was being dragged into the forest. He began working his legs to keep up with her; she was moving quickly and it was hard to stay at the same pace. The trees changed, and pink flowers dominated the scene. Cherry blossoms. They came into a clearing and Tsukiko finally stopped and let go of his hand. Kishurin was watching her carefully, panting from the fast run they had made to get here. He couldn’t see anything here but the beauty of the cherry trees in blossom and Tsukiko’s form. She turned and looked at him. Passion was in her eyes as she confessed that she longed for him. Her kimono fell to the ground and Kishurin saw for the first time what a woman looked like. Needless to say, Kishurin blushed a deep, beet red. He said the only thing that could come to his mind, the one thing that seemed to be an appropriate response: “I love you too, Tsukiko.”

Kishurin felt a strange sensation in his loins, one he’d never felt before. While he was completely innocent when it came to sexual desires, the body he’d been gifted with had come with all primal instincts, including the drive to procreate. If only his mind had as much innate knowledge as his body. He wanted to fulfill her wishes, and he saw nothing wrong with it. He pulled his cloak, vest, and gloves off, leaving his pants and shirt on. He dropped them in a pile and walked over to Tsukiko, nude but covered with petals. He laid on the ground next to her, and her head followed him. "Tsukiko, I really don't know what I should do, but I will try my best anyway." They were looking at each other and Kishurin took a guess as to what he should do.

Kishurin moved his face closer to hers. Tsukiko’s eyes were sparkling in the moonlight. He could see the color-changing star that was his home in the corner of his eye, but it didn’t matter much. Her lips parted slightly, anticipating what was to come. It was a light kiss, all he could think to do at the moment. A strange, but very pleasant sensation shot through his body. He took a deep breath as Tsukiko turned on her side, locked her arms around him, and drew him in for a passionate kiss.

Her tongue played against his lips, caressing them and teasing them. Trying to learn from example, he turned his tongue on her, sending it through his lips and meeting hers head-on. Her tongue felt soft and warm; it called to him to continue his caress, but teasingly retreated into Tsukiko’s mouth. He put his arms gently around her. Her soft skin was welcoming his touch, quivering beneath his hands. Guessing once more, he shoved his tongue into her waiting mouth. I hope I’m doing this right…I feel hot all over, and she seems to be enjoying it, so maybe I’m not doing too badly, after all. Kishurin let go at that point. He closed his eyes and simply let the flow take him where ever it wanted to.

[hamnat]

Shenjara decided to be nice and let them go. She could easily tell Tsukiko was lying; her face gave everything away. She was visibly trying to lock gazes, and when she did, her eyes gave away her as well. But since what they were going to do while they were gone was none of her business, she decided to let them go. It's so obvious she was looking to be alone with Kishurin. I wonder what they're up to...Oh well. It doesn't matter anyways. As long as they don't track Oni to us or leave us here to die, they can have all the time in the world.

Shenjara was quite tired from the long walk and stretched herself from head to toe, arching her back and tensing her body momentarily. She sighed as she relaxed, feeling totally at ease. I wish Joran was here right now. Maybe we could take an example from those too. She smiled as she thought of him. She slowly closed her eyes and let sleep take her. She wasn't going to Weave tonight. Let the Dream come to me this time.

[Axeheart]

The two young ones rushed off into the forest, clearly not looking to find something for the quest, but somewhere to be alone together. Hehe...I'll be' this is wha' th' Ronin was tryin' t' cover up. If she's anythin' like animals, then she's probly in heat right now. No wonder th' lad's so caugh' up with 'er. It was quite a funny thought: Kishurin romancing some young lass. Mac knew that Kishurin was as innocent as a baby.

As long as she don't hurt 'im someway, I'll keep my mouth shu' abou' it. I'm pre'y sure 'er mother would be sore if she 'eard abou' it. Mac reached into his pack and found his whetstone. His axe was meant for cleaving enemies, not trees, and it had been blunted some during his efforts. He laid the upper part of the axe handle on his lap so the head was just a little bit right of him. He scraped the stone along the blade of the axe, scraping away nicks in the metal and putting the blade back to its pristine condition. It would take a while, though, so Mac started to hum an old Dukrav lullaby. His mother had sang it to him and he found it helped to pass time. So he sat, scraped, and hummed the night away. After he was satisfied with his axe-blade, he set it aside, took his armor off, laid down, and went to sleep. His dreams were of fire and foes, and he was in the middle of a large battle-field, performing a lethal battle-dance. It was a glorious dream.

[Tsukiko]

It’s kinda funny the way we kissed. I had never kissed anyone like this and it was so strange to have someone else’s tongue in my mouth. But still it felt good the way our tongues danced with each other and how my body was feeling hot all over from it. I moaned as I pulled our bodies close so I could feel his form through the fabric of his shirt. I kept the kiss going as long as I could but my body was impatient.

It wanted more than kissing. I wasn’t sure what my body wanted, and I liked the kissing but my body wanted more. Perhaps it wasn’t happy with the barrier between us. I felt myself pull away from his mouth and licked his nose and smiled. “Umm. I don’t think it’s right to have your clothes on during this.” Giggled as I led him up and lifted his shirt then tossed it onto my kimono.

I blushed as I looked at his chest. His skin was smooth like porcelain and not the hard muscles that I’ve seen on many men. Yet despite the lack of mass he had strength and it comforted me that his body would be gentle. Next thing was to remove the pants and Kish had happily complied and we were both naked together.

It wasn’t my first time seeing a male nude but it was the first time being so close and having the sight light a fire in my soul. I was so excited that my tail wagged and harmless fox fire started to dance around me as I jumped into his arms for another round of kissing. It felt a little better to feel his skin against mine as I felt his tongue dance with mine again. I felt his body, running my hand down the bumps of his spine and over his soft butt.

I sighed with delight as I kept feeling his body with mine but there was something else that I needed. My lower self was feeling wet and the base of my tail was damp and I felt a tingle down there. I really wished I knew what I was supposed to do to make my body happy. The kissing seemed to make the unknown desire worse so I decided to stop and lick over his chest and nipples not wanting it to end but needing to do something about the feeling in my nethers.

“Kish, I feel funny down there. Could you do something about it?” I whispered with a blushing smile. I really wished I knew what to do but I really didn’t.

[Kishurin]

Kishurin was blushing again as Tsukiko coerced his clothing off his body. After she’d gotten him to remove his shirt, he’d given in and enthusiastically removed the remainder of his clothing. When they kissed again, their bodies pressed together. Her skin was a downy covering for her lovely shape. He felt her breasts against his chest and marveled at this aspect of the female body. He felt her hands caress his spine, massaging somewhat as her hands explored him. She broke the kiss again, lowering her head to his chest. He felt her tongue, which had been only too recently locked in a dance with his, lapping at his chest, stimulating him.

He was feeling things he’d never felt before. He felt pressure in his loins and an urge that he couldn’t understand. She pleaded with him for release, release that neither of them knew how to give her. Well, her hands were exploring my body, so…maybe I’ll try the same and see if anything happens. He placed his hand on her shoulder and ran it down her arm. She acknowledged his touch, but didn’t react with anything different, so he figured that wasn’t it. So this time, he tried with his hand on her neck. From there, he ran his hand down the front of her body, passing over her breast. She moaned as his hand brushed her nipple. Is that it?

Kishurin had found a spot that she reacted strongly to. He pressed gently on her breast and watched her expression. Tsukiko looked like her mind had left for another plane of existence, one where everything was a pleasurable experience. He tried acting on example again and lowered his head. He kissed her breast, eliciting a passionate moan from Tsukiko, he felt her hug him even more tightly. The feel of her soft skin against his face was phenomenal. It was softer than anything and he tended to her breast, caressing and sucking on her nipple.

She was practically begging him now, “Kishurin, please! Please take care of that feeling down there. It’s driving me crazy!” Kishurin stopped playing with her breast and tried feeling for good spots again. This time, he started at her navel. He moved down, lightly touching her and torturing her with his slow movements. He wanted to make sure he didn’t miss the spot. His hand was almost in the small triangle between her legs and he could hear her draw in breath as his fingers ran over that area. He rubbed his fingers around and she moaned again. Her legs parted and he got his first view of her most private place. His fingers traced everything and he was fascinated by the feelings that were engulfing and drowning him in an ocean of passion. Tsukiko was panting by this point, and the air was filled with a musky smell.

That smell… He was remembering the last time that smell had permeated the air. He had been hunting when he came up on two wolves. They seemed completely unaware of him and more interested in each other. One turned its tail to the other and the other came up behind and began to mate the other. The same smell had been present then and now. “Tsukiko, I think I know what we should do.”

[Tsukiko]

I was putty in Kishurin’s hands once he stopped kissing me and experimented with my body. Every touch seemed to have a bit of a tingle as he tried to bring pleasure to me. But the first few places just didn’t do anything for me until he came to my breast. The feeling of the boy playing with and then sucking my breast was too much. It really was as good as the kissing if not better.

I had no clue what to do but Kish seemed to have gotten momentum and I could barely think as my lower area got wetter and wetter and I was on the verge of collapsing onto the earth but I was able to stay up and gain my baring as he continued to search for the place that would cure my itch. Of coarse I knew where my itch was but I was rather embarrassed to say and after tickling my belly he found it.

My Pleasure was renewed in a way I had never felt and I had to moan with a twitch of my tail as he felt my nethers. I was feeling so hot and cold at once, like a hot iron getting doused by winter air. My lover had an idea just then. “Love, what is it you have in mind?” I asked and looked into his eye as he was grinning.

He gently grabbed my arms and led me to turn around and lay on my hands and knees. My tail was standing up as my body seemed to know what was going to happen and wanted to invite my love in. I wasn’t too sure what he was going to do but I found out soon enough.

I felt something fleshy press against me for a moment. Everything was still save for a slight breeze and the sound of us panting and waiting. The stillness caused my heat to take over again as I couldn’t wait any longer. “Please Kish, don’t make me wait.” I asked as my tail swished back in forth while I waited.

Perhaps I wasn’t ready as I squealed in pain as something entered me and pressed me forward. It hurt but there was an underlying feeling. It hurt but in a good way. I was shivering a moment and Kish was still again. It seemed he had stopped with worry. “Kish, I’m okay. It doesn’t hurt that bad. Please don’t stop.” I was begging, stillness meant the itch wasn’t going away and I really wanted him right now. Body and soul. I was sure we now belonged to each other body and soul now.

[hamnat]

Shenjara was in a city street with Joran. They were speaking to each other but she couldn't hear him. Suddenly, a woman came and grabbed Joran. She dragged him down the street moving faster than Shenjara could keep up. She was running at her full strength and the woman was still outrunning her. She collapsed in a heap as she finally gave in and let exhaustion take her. The woman stopped and paraded him for a moment. But the face of the man she had stolen wasn't Joran's. Kishurin!? Then the woman dragged him out of sight. Shenjara felt a horrible pain behind her left breast, and screamed out into the night sky.

* * *

Shenjara woke suddenly, almost jumping from her prone position to a standing position. She was breathing heavily and was covered in sweat. She recognized she'd just had a nightmare. But it was unusual. Why was Kishurin there? What was he doing in that dream? The pit in her stomach from earlier returned. She still couldn't understand these feelings. Just let it go, Shen. It's just a dream. Whether by some miracle or something else, Arajnehs didn't try to disturb her. She laid back down, her mind in a frenzy, and let herself fall to dreams of fire and arrows.

[Kishurin]

Kishurin couldn't describe to himself this new set of sensations. They were something completely different than anything he'd ever experienced before. "Tsukiko..." he moaned as he emulated the wolves mating in the forest. He knew he was doing the right thing this time. Her words of passion and desire told him he was doing it right and that nothing was more right than their coupling. He had no memory of home nor any desire to return anymore. All he wanted at that moment he had right there.

Kishurin and Tsukiko mated like the beasts of the forest, each one's body nearing convulsions from the sudden surrender to reckless abandon. He heard Tsukiko moan more loudly than ever before and felt pressure in his loins. He shouted her name to the forest as they came together in as a pair of suddenly spasming bodies. They were gasping for breath as they emerged from the ocean of passion, its waves washing over them like a torrent.

She moaned as they separated. He crawled over beside her and let himself fall to the ground. He laid there on his side, smiling at her with a glazed look in his eyes. She dropped to the ground and slid over to him. He kissed her passionately again and said, "Well, did the itch go away?"

[Tsukiko]

The Feeling that Kishurin gave me was hard to describe. It kinda felt like biting into a piece of te finest dark chocolate. There was a tinge of sweetness and a bit of bitterness and something that felt like sensory overload. My body convulsed and I screamed into with my back arching and pressing my chest to the ground. After that moment we were done and back to kissing.

My body was still sensitive to the kissing, even though it was much more subdued now since we were both tired. Kish asked the question about how I was. “Yes, the itch is gone.” My body was happy for that moment in time. It was happy to have found a mate.

The kissing died down and I was content to lay against my lover and simply listen to his breathing. I didn’t want to move at the moment. I felt warm and peaceful, but a simple motion would destroy the feeling. I wanted to be with Kishurin forever but then again that was not going to be the case.

Foxes tended to mate for life but mortal foxes have a short life while mystic kitsune like me live far longer. Mating for life may not be possible and may not be best for a kid I met just now. Though he did make me feel pleasure that I have never felt before. But then I banished such thoughts. Right now was the time to be with Kishurin and to be happy.

I gave him a simple kiss on his nose to end our dance of tongues. “I feel like I’m in paradise.” I snuggled with him under the cherry blossom tree and wanted to drift to sleep before my heat would recur if it would come back, either way I just needed to sleep. “I love you . . . ” were the last words before my drifting to sleep.

[Kishurin]

Kishurin felt something, if only for a moment. Uncertainty? Tsukiko seemed to being having some form of internal struggle. But before he could ask, it was gone. Kishurin's nose tickled from Tsukiko's attention. At least, she sounds happy enough. He smiled as his lover fell asleep in his arms.

Seeing her asleep was like observing valley from the top of a mountain: calm, serene, halcyon. He kissed her on her forehead one last time before he felt tired. Oh, wow...It seems that doing this gives you energy, then takes it away...He could barely keep his eyes open, so he let sleep drag him down into the depths of slumber. He dreamed of a field with a fox in it. He was hunting the fox, and it kept teasing him, showing itself to him, then running off somewhere to hide. Discouraged, he eventually gave up and dreamed no more that night.

[Tsukiko]

I dreamed that night. It was a nice dream but one that would make my heart feel empty. The scenery was a place much like home but with subtle differences. There was no hot spring and no wall to hide the garden. But it was much like mother’s den.

The world seemed peaceful but then in a moment the sound of children giggling ended the silence. There were two children playing. They were younger than I, about ten years younger by human maturity. They had tails and I knew one was a boy and the other was a girl and both had blue hair. Twins like my brother and sister.

They ran up to me and smiled warmly. “Mommy!” The boy said with a wagging tail and the girl was with him, her tail wagging just as hard. “We can transform!” The girl announced and grinned before they turned into a pair of birds to make pretty bird songs.

“Wow, you two are learning so quickly.” I praised them and they turned back into kids with fox tails and we hugged.

The pair seemed happy for a moment then shivered in my arms. “When’s Daddy going to come back?” They asked in unison.

“I’m sorry but he won’t.” My heart felt like it was going to pop.

And it seemed to have.

I woke up with my body on fire and feeling like someone stabbed me at my tail’s base. I screamed and clenched my hands into anything, sadly it was my lover. I could not control my body as I convulsed and cried out at the top of my lungs with tears streaming down my cheek.

I gained a little control and saw that I had done damage to Kish. I recoiled back and laid in the position that I would take as a child when afraid and mother would comfort me by burling around me. The pain soon subsided and I felt a strange sensation on my butt, like another tail was there. I then looked to see two furry tails twitching erratically. First heat and then having another tail growing out. This was too much for a girl like me. The sensations just made it hard to move and I could only stare into Kishurin’s eyes with my own fear stricken, looking for comfort.

[Kishurin]

Kishurin had been dreaming of bathing in a hot spring. The hot water was soothing and he felt every trouble, every ache, washing away. He sighed in contentment and let himself sink into the water. Suddenly a shark attacked and its teeth raked long scratches in his back. The unwarrented lacerations felt like they were burning into his back. He heard the shark roar. Sharks don't roar...what's with this?

Kishurin's eyes shot open. Tsukiko was writhing in pain in front of him, her cheeks flooded with tears. Her wail pierced the morning air. She was digging long grooves into his back and he could feel the blood beginning to run. It hurts...but nowhere near as much as she is... He wrapped his arms tightly around her in an effort to comfort her, to let her know he was there for her.

She stopped convulsing and screaming. Kishurin heard nothing except her quick, heavy panting. She looked behind herself as best she could with her lover's arms wrapped around her, then looked directly into Kishurin's eyes. Her eyes were submerged in horror. Her lip was quivering and she looked like she had seen a ghost. What could be scaring her so much...we didn't do anything wrong, did we? He tried to look behind her and saw that something was quite different about her. Is that...is that a double-tail? Did she just grow another tail?

Kishurin was completely dumbfounded. "Tsukiko...." he mumbled. "Tsukiko...what...what's happening to you?" He couldn't keep his confusion or sudden feeling of fright from invading his words. He was totally at a loss of what to do and think. He had no idea what it could mean or what it might have been caused by. He was quite literally shaking.

[Tsukiko]

I was frightened and in pain but then I felt Kishurin hold me close in his arms. I was shaking and felt paralyzed but having his warmth made me feel better. After a little while of holding me, my breath slowed to normal and I could move. I moved my hands to feel his hair and then nuzzled close before looking into his eyes and blushing.

My two tails twitched and I smiled nervously. “I’m ok.” I said lightly. “Thanks. I was in pain but I’m going to be fine. I just never imagined that a tail growing would be so painful. I thought I was going to die.” I was blushing as it was very embarrassing to act like that.

My body was now in control and I looked to the sky to see it was taking a violet hue. Dawn was coming. I pulled myself away from Kish quickly. “Hurry, get dressed. Your friends will likely be here any minute and they can’t see us like this.”

It would have been bad to have the other two come upon us while we were holding together and naked, especially after that scream I made. I rushed to my kimono and hastily pulled it up around me. And tied it with my tails hidden beneath the silk. I smiled at Kish and leaned against the sakura tree that we made love under. “Lets act like nothing happened.” I suggested as I waited for the other two to come. I was sure that they wouldn’t pry deeper if I told them about the tail.

[Axeheart]

Mac had woken up about an hour before dawn. He usually woke up earlier than the others and spent his time polishing his armor and sharpening his weapons. He couldn't help but wonder why the other two hadn't returned. At about the time when the sun was starting to rise, Shenjara woke up as well. She looked fairly cold, but a weak-looking Torch fixed that for her. It's good t' see she's using 'er power fer somethin' useful again. She always seems 'appier when she can use 'er power for somethin' good rather than blowin' up bandits and stuff. Guess i's probly somethin' cause she feels dangerous.

He smiled as he watched her stare into the flame in her palm. She seemed enraptured in it's chaotic flares and sparks, as if she were trying to predict what it would do next. But the halcyon moment was broken with a scream. I's a gel. An' she's nah far away, either. Could i' be them? "Shen! I think tha's them! They migh' be in trouble." He grabbed his sword and put it at his side, leaving his bulky axe behind. He wouldn't need it if they were going to get to the others quickly.

[hamnat]

Shenjara woke up around daybreak, while Mac was sharpening his axe-blade. The fire had died not long ago, and a chilling breeze went right through her robe and gave her goosebumps. She shivered and said with chattering teeth, "Kuranai alsrantokif." Instantly, a small fireball sparked to life in her palm. She brought it close and huddled up near it. The heat wasn't great, but it was enough to warm her freezing skin.

She watched the small flame dance around mellowly in her palm. There was a crescendo here and a transition there. In the corner of her eye, she could see Mac watching her. He always seemed to be watching her when she wasn't using her magic to kill, as if he enjoyed observing her when she was at her calmest. No doubt, it's a nice break from the normal, temperamental me. Arajnehs broke in for a moment with a quick You mean the normal, BITCHY you. That's more accurate don't you think?

Shenjara ignored her, partly because she didn't want to fight right then, but mostly because she'd heard a scream. It sounded much like the girl they'd recently taken into their group, and it wasn't far off. Mac was ready to go within seconds and was already beckoning to her before she could even banish the little Torch. She jumped to her feet, grabbing her staff on her way up, and pointed towards the trees. "The scream came from that direction. It's the same way that they went last night. We should hurry and get to them; they might be in trouble!"

Mac needed no further encouragement. The two of them ran into the trees in the direction she'd pointed in. It didn't take more than a minute before they came on a grove of blossoming cherry trees. If the situation hadn't been more urgent, and Shenjara less hostile, she would have been lost in the beauty of the cherry blossoms, what the people of the area referred to as Sakura.

They came on a clearing where they quickly saw the two they were looking for. Tsukiko's Kimono was a little wrinkled, and Kishurin's clothes were rather messy, as if they'd been hastily put on. "What's going on? Who screamed?" Shenjara said while she huffed and puffed. Nothing seemed to wrong other than the state of their clothes and...something was different about Tsukiko.

[Tsukiko]

I really wished I had a higher tolerance for pain. If I hadn’t screamed then we would have had time to dress properly. So there I was being the one to explain to Kishurin’s Friends what was going on. It’s not like I could tell them that me and Kish got on all fours and mated like animals and because of that I grew a new tail. Foxes are supposed to be the best liars but I’m not too good of it.

“Well I was screaming. I woke up in pain.” I explained while my tails twitched. “I grew a new tail this morning and it hurt so much that I couldn’t help but screaming.” I turned around and hiked up my kimono to show the two twitching tails. “That’s probably why I was feeling off. It was my tail coming in.”

I smiled at the dwarf and elf and hoped that they bought my half truth. “Well, I’m feeling better. Are you guys ready to go to the temple?” My tails swished a bit more steadily as I was gaining confidence in my feeling. There was one problem; the itch in my lower region had returned a little bit.

I was still in heat though it was slight. I was able to feel mostly normal and while I still loved looking at Kish I was sure that it wasn’t just the heat. At least after that night I could at least function better and would be more useful to the group.