Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Mon Apr 29, 2019 2:27 PM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

Again, it was confirmed–deification did nothing to remove one's personal shortcomings. This was an embarrassment, she thought as the gag reflex was dying down. Niall was handling it better than she was, but there was no way they'd touch that again. The red-haired woman offered to give her something that'd make the churning in her stomach settle down to which Shiloh nodded. "Yeah…that'd be great." Cleaning herself up, time flew by as the sake was set aside and the tea was brought in, Niall was back to his usual energetic self, and she was looking a little less pale. "I remember hearing an old fable of sages who used wine as their elixir, though I suppose the opposite was just as likely." Lady Shizuka jested, lightening the mood. "One of those 'drunken master' stories, right? Somehow I highly doubt that's possible…seeing how alcohol affects perception and coordination." The tension in the air was now gone and the light from the window was now a faint amethyst as dusk was slowly approaching. The skies were something to get used to in Kujishoku. Everything here was fantastical, unusual, and strange. Everything here was humming with otherworldly energy, which often forced Shiloh to close her aura sight off. 

Noticing her glance at the window, Lady Shizuka seemed to know what was on her mind. "There is no need to worry if the hours grow long. The Camellia Pavilion provides lodging for its guests when night comes. The lion-dog guardians ensure the entire building is fully protected by a barrier." Shiloh looked back in surprise, to which their hostess smiled. "As the head of our clan's religious sect, divination is one my talents."  Catching her gist, Shiloh gave a knowing nod. Despite being poorly prepared, things were going surprisingly well. She still felt like she was fully transparent before everyone, so unless her opinion was asked for she didn't say much. The hosts' attention turned to the stranger who had joined them. As the tea was served, Lord Shuten was the one to bring up the next topic. "So young one, how do you like our lovely Kujishoku? Fukugami here has crossed the border quite a number of times already and thus has grown familiar with the city. How goes the world outside the boundaries of the Spirit Realm?" 

Author: Nelanna Fox, Posted: Wed Apr 10, 2019 6:32 PM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

Niall, put simply, was adorable. Nelanna loved ferrets, and his chipper attitude only added to his charm. “It is a pleasure to meet you, Niall. Unfortunately I have been separated from my own familiar for the time being, so I cannot introduce him quite yet.” A sudden wave of alarm hit her as if summoned by her words, and her friendly smile turned anxious. It seemed it wouldn’t be long now before they get to meet him; she had the feeling Kohaku just found out she was gone. Crap.

For the time being she allowed herself to be distracted by the woman and her familiar as they briefly talked of being captains. She blinked with interest. Sailing has always been something she was willing to try, either by air or sea, but never got around to it. Her chances only lessened after becoming the Warden of the Wilds. Finally, General Shuten called over a waiter and ordered…junmai ginjo? What is that? Obviously some sort of drink since it’s a toast, but what kind? Nelanna watched the rabbit person hop away with curiosity, until something caught her interest from the corner of her eye. Fukugami looked far more nervous than before. She frowned a little, but decided against saying anything for the time being. This is only because she didn’t get the chance to speak, for the attendant had already returned with drinks which Lady Shizuka then poured for each of them.

“Thank you,” Nelanna said with a smile of gratitude. Lifting the glass to her lips, she took a sip. It was…different, far unlike any other alcohol she’s ever tasted. But that wasn’t saying much. The only other alcohol she has had before is wine and whiskey, with wine being a personal favorite. For a moment she wondered if Kohaku has ever tried this drink before, and quickly concluded that he must have since he had mentioned he’d been to this place before, long ago. He loved wine, and somehow it was difficult to imagine him not at least trying this drink.

Fukugami took a sip as well, her body visibly trembling. Nelanna raised a brow, silently wondering if she was alright. The first sip was taken, and at first everything looked to be alright. But Fukugami took a sudden turn. She began throwing up, and on instinct Nelanna reached out to her. She hesitated, hands hovering over the woman’s doubled over form, unsure whether the woman wanted comfort from a stranger. And then she was gone, but only for a few short moments before returning. Nelanna blinked rapidly from confusion. What had just happened? She vanished from sight completely, then returned. She shook the questions from her head and lightly placed her hand on Fukugami’s shoulder. “Are you alright? If the alcohol doesn’t sit well with you, I have some remedies that may help settle your stomach. If you wish?” She couldn’t use her healing magic on such things, unfortunately, for that only works on open wounds. Thankfully her skills at making medical remedies improved drastically since Kohaku came along. Apparently he came from an era where everyone had to make their own medicines for everything. A fever, aches and pains, and whatever else. He had to learn about each and every herb, which was best for certain things. Since healing magic and store bought medicines has become far more popular over the years, the old way Kohaku knows have been lost, despite how helpful they still are. She was lucky to have him, and made certain to always bring a little with her on every journey in case something happened unexpectedly. Something like this.

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Sat Feb 16, 2019 11:44 PM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

Thank everything that was good and holy for Niall breaking the silence. She could feel herself breathe again when her familiar got everyone's attention. Finding her voice, she cleared it while introducing him. "Oh, this is Niall. He's my familiar. You can probably tell, but he's special for a ferret." The general and his wife were both amused and intrigued by him, which was a good thing. Proudly, the small creature said: "Yep! That's right, I'm Niall–Captain of Ferrets! Just like how she's the captain of her ship!" With a wry smile, Shiloh muttered. "That's because you're our only ferret…" Either way it didn't dampen his enthusiasm, and the general clapped his hands to signal an attendant. Another of those three-foot tall rabbits came in, with paper and brush in hand. "Yes sir?" With a broad grin, Lord Shuten boomed: "Bring us a bottle of junmai ginjo, your best! Today we have two honored guests with us. No effort should be spared!" Shiloh cracked a nervous smile when her gaze and the general's met, the butterflies in her stomach going wild.

That feeling only got worse when the attendant returned more quickly than she liked. Carefully setting down a tall ceramic bottle and several small lacquer-ware cups, Shiloh already had a sneaking suspicion on what the liquid was. Her heart was pounding as each and every one of them had a drink poured, then the attendant bowed and left with the tray. Niall, on the other hand–was eyeing the mysterious substance with a gleam in his eye. Sliding down and climbing onto the table, he sniffed at an extra cup which Lady Shizuka poured a small amount of the junmai ginjo into. "A toast!" General Shuten declared, raising his cup and his wife doing the same. Legs shaking, Shiloh raised hers, mouth already filled with the taste of regret. Maybe if she only took a small sip it might not happen. Maybe becoming a deity had nullified that along with other bodily needs. Tipping the cup and letting a small bit slide into her throat, she thought it might have worked–then immediately knew it didn't.

"Hrk-!" Eyes widening and slapping a hand over her mouth, she doubled over leaning to the side–head below the table as she and her ferret both simultaneous began to hurl. While Niall went limp, Shiloh was having a severe fit of convulsions as her body violently rejected the alcohol she had managed to ingest. To a group of strangers, it looked like she was suffering a severe bout of poisoning or a seizure. Both hosts were extremely concerned as Lady Shizuka quickly called for a server. For a few seconds, Shiloh flickered out of existence. Using her ring of sanctuary she sent herself to a wide empty alternate dimension where she proceeded to empty the contents of her stomach. After the worst of it was over, she reappeared back in her seat a few seconds later, pale and worse for wear. 

Breathing heavily, she found a napkin and cleaned herself up before coming back above the tabletop. The general, server, and Lady Shizuka were greatly relieved when she was no longer suffering from spasms. "Agh…sorry…about that." She said between breaths. "It seems that alcohol…still doesn't agree with me." Niall rolled into his owner's lap mumbling, starting to recover too. "Please don't blame yourself, perhaps I should have asked beforehand if it was suitable. We had forgotten that other beings may have sensitivity towards certain food and drink." Turning to the server she said softly, "Please bring us jasmine tea." With her breathing back to normal, Shiloh still insisted that she apologize. "No–I should've said something. I didn't want to refuse your hospitality…" 

Author: Nelanna Fox, Posted: Tue Feb 12, 2019 9:14 AM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

The stranger seemed relieved. Nelanna’s smile softened at them, her body visibly relaxing more, until the stranger gave her a warning. She blinked curiously, recalling the Kohaku had mentioned something similar before they had arrived. However, he never explained why due to the belief that they wouldn’t be around long enough. But his warning didn’t sound quite as serious as the stranger made it sound. Perhaps the reason is because Kohaku is very good at making people think and feel they way he wants them to. Well, it works on her, at least.

Before questions had the chance of being asked, the other woman had begun to speak. Nelanna’s turquoise pools turned their attention to the other, large and unblinking as she attempted to take in all of the information being given to her. Camellia Pavilion she says? Nelanna couldn’t say she’s ever heard of such a thing before. Was it something native to this city? Or had she not been out and about enough to hear of it? Either way, it had caught her interest, and for once she was grateful Kohaku wasn’t there to keep her curiosity in check. He often tells her the term “Curiosity killed the cat” may one day apply to her since she’s so driven to know more about everything. And it doesn’t help that she’s so trusting of others. So in her defense this time, she was left unsupervised.

“That sounds fun,” she smiled brightly, deciding to make the best of her current situation before Kohaku locks her up for life once he finds her. She followed the two strangers, looking over the buildings, people, shops and everything else as they walked by. This place was certainly different from the world she knew, yet it was so beautiful. From the architecture and the people, to the decorations and items selling at the shops; this place was certainly somewhere she could see Kohaku living and fitting in perfectly. He mentioned he had been here before; perhaps he had once lived here? Her smile turned a little sorrowful as she began to realize just how little she knew about his past. He never spoke of it, and she never asked, fearful of prying and trying to respect his privacy. It was clear to her that something bad had happened to him long ago, and she suspected it had something to do with Oberon, which could explain why he doesn’t approve of Cecil. But perhaps her fear of intruding was making him feel as though she wasn’t interested in knowing more about him. Or worse, maybe he felt she just didn’t care. That thought frightened her the most.

They finally came to a magnificent building that had Nelanna gazing in wonder, briefly distracted from her thoughts about Kohaku. An adorable rabbit person gave them a welcome and took their reservation before allowing them entry. She continued to follow the strangers into the building, up spirals of stairs and to the third floor. Standing before a door their guide had led them to, Nelanna decided there wasn’t enough people around to gaze at her ears, -as if her outfit didn’t catch enough unwanted attention- and so she pulled her hood down, revealing her luscious fiery curls and triangular ears. Their guide spoke for the last time and hopped away, and then they entered the room.

There was a man already seated, obviously awaiting their arrival. He laughed and spoke the name of one of the strangers, and it wasn’t until said stranger spoke in return that Nelanna knew which was Shizuka. She introduced the man to them as her husband, and General. Did that mean he’s involved in some kind of war? She smiled and curtsied in greeting. “A pleasure to meet you,” she said, then noticed that Fukugami -assuming that’s the name of the other stranger- bowed instead. Oh yeah…traditions here are different. Perhaps she should bow as well. She didn’t wish to offend anyone. And so she quickly attempted to correct herself by bowing, but her sheepishness was becoming obvious at this point and made it a little awkward. “I-I am Nelanna,” she said, attempting to clear her throat and hide her embarrassment, all the while hoping her cheeks weren’t as flushed as they felt. “Please forgive me if I do something out of sorts. I mean no offense. I am not familiar with this world nor its traditions.”

She managed to offer them a friendly smile, then she took the seat next to Fukugami. At first she was quiet, silently wondering if it was best to stay quiet as not to embarrass herself any further than she already has. Her eyes glanced over the other three, perhaps looking for a conversation starter if another didn’t speak first. Though, she supposed she should wait. She was just a stranger they picked up from the streets, and she knew so little of their ways. Perhaps waiting and watching was her best bet. But once her eyes laid on Fukugami, she questioned whether she’s the only one that’s nervous. The other woman looked tense, completely unrelaxed, though it didn’t show as clearly on her face. Funny, Nelanna had the impression Fukugami knew, at least, Shizuka.

She was beginning to lean closer so she could whisper in Fukugami’s ear and ask if she was alright, but then something completely unexpected happened. A ferret appeared from the woman’s bag, chirping a greeting and offering an adorable smile before making his way to stand atop the woman’s head. Nelanna blinked curiously. Was it a familiar? “Hello there,” she replied, offering a soft smile. “Who’s this?” She turned her attention back to Fukugami.

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Sun Feb 10, 2019 4:16 PM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

"Oh…" That was a relief. There was something familiar about the stranger, and this time she confirmed it. She was right–this woman wasn't from Kujishoku. "Just thought you might want to know, make sure to stay indoors when curfew hits. It's dangerous to stay out at night." What she didn't add was that even the locals never disobeyed the curfew, as monsters would roam the streets looking for victims to devour. Lady Shizuka smiled, tapping the edge of her fan against her chin. "Would you like to join us? We were just ready to depart for the Camellia Pavilion. The establishment holds great renown within the city, and rooms are booked completely this time of year."  Since she was also a guest, Shiloh didn't have any objections. If the red-haired woman didn't mind spending some time with a few strangers, that is. The Camellia Pavilion was a massive tiered structure, more than three stories high and each story full of rooms with views of the city. It was the largest restaurant she had ever seen, and it wasn't the tallest in the city either! The exterior paneling was a bright crimson red, and red camellia trees decorated the grounds surrounding it. The corners of the eaves were the signature upturned look that Ataiyan and Karithian buildings had.

It was a major landmark, you couldn't miss it. And due to the camellias it was also a favorite spot for couples during their blooming season. Shiloh herself had never seen the inside of it, but there were people coming in and out at all hours of the day. If the elven lady agreed, they crossed a few streets to the imposing structure. With the celebrations the red building was decked out in strings of globe-shaped lanterns. It was like a glowing red yule tree. A large black lacquered plaque above the entrance had the restaurant's name in the local script, and an anthropomorphic rabbit three feet tall welcomed them. "Ah, welcome! Do you have a reservation?" Lady Shizuka drew a neatly folded red paper from her sleeve and the greeter took it graciously. "Wonderful! Right this way please!" They passed by many window seats on the ground floor, walking up spirals and spirals of a winding central staircase. Finally, they stopped at the third floor and were led to a private room with a painted camellia on the sliding door. "The servers will be with you shortly. Thank you for your patronage!" The greeter then hopped away.

As the door was slid open, there was a powerful-looking horned man already seated at the circular table. With a wild beard and hair barely contained by his helm, he easily would tower over his wife by one head and a half when standing. "HAHAHA! There she is! Welcome, come–sit! You've brought us a surprise visitor, dear Shizuka." Lady Shizuka turned and motioned gracefully to the wild man. "Fukugami and young lady, I am honored to present to you my husband–General Shuten." Shiloh clasped her hands together and bowed, waiting for the hostess to take her seat. Lady Shizuka was seated closest to her husband, leaving the two seats opposite of them for her and the elf. Shiloh naturally chose the seat with a clear line to the door, in case something happened. It was then she realized something that she was immediately regretting now she had the thought–what was she supposed to do in this situation?!

This was probably the first time Shiloh was invited by someone of relative influence for a meal that wasn't on the pretext of business. She had played many different roles before: a server, a butler, the scullery maid, the doorman, a coach driver–but not this! She…she had no idea what she was supposed to do at a dinner party. She didn't know how to make small talk. What was she going to say to these people?! You can't talk about the weather when you were the intended guest of honor! There were so many topics that probably weren't appropriate that she actually had things to say about, and it was even worse when you take into consideration cultural taboos outsiders wouldn't normally know. Usually it wasn't so bad if she had Cymbel here, because he would talk enough for both of them. The internal anxiety was building up to the point where she felt like she would explode. 

Suddenly there was something squirming in her bag, and a furry head poked itself out. Rubbing its face with its paws, the ferret yawned as he saw a bunch of faces he hadn't seen before. "Hello!" Niall piped up with his adorable ferret smile. Scampering out her climbed into his owner's clothes and emerged from beside her neck. To get a better view of the place, he then climbed onto her head.

Author: Nelanna Fox, Posted: Sun Feb 10, 2019 9:29 AM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

Nelanna fought, and eventually made her way through the large crowd to the front. There, she was able to see what everyone was so intent on watching, forgetting the stranger she had followed for the time being. Ahead were performers, masked dancers who’s masks somehow kept changing. She tilted her head, watching with peaked interest as a small smile began to show. Though Nelanna was curious as to how the masks changed the way they did, she was more intrigued by the dancing. It was similar to choreography she’d seen before, however, it was also very different. Even more so when the next performer came upon the stage.

Nelanna blinked at the woman’s beautiful kimono and parasol, her eyes wide as the woman began to dance. Her movements were beautiful and graceful, matching the dancer in every way. But Nelanna did not have the ability to tell the difference between the dancer and everyone else. In fact, she didn’t know the difference between herself and everyone else around her, aside from the kitsune and other like people, as well as the way the dressed and their apparent traditions. The fact of the matter is that she didn’t know that they were all spirits, and the city was for them alone. Kohaku never explained to her where it was they were going, only described it as “A place I knew long ago”.

Oh, speaking of Kohaku, Nelanna was suddenly reminded of him when her eyes briefly lay on another kitsune. She didn’t stay put like he had told her to; if he found out she was gone… Honestly, the thought frightened her a little. He’d scold her and never let her out of his sight again! Crap!

She turned and shouldered her way back out of the crowd, stopping for a moment to survey the streets. Where had she come from? How could she get back to Kohaku? She bit her lip nervously. Then, she decided to pick a direction and wing it. Nelanna took off running as fast as she could in her heeled boots, surrounded by large groups of people. She turned down one of the streets, and didn’t make it far before stopping. Realization had hit her suddenly as she looked over the nearby buildings; none of them look familiar. Perhaps she should go back and take a different street?

Then, something hit her from behind. She gasped from surprise, stumbling forward then catching herself, and glancing behind to find that someone had bumped into her. She smiled and stood up straight, waving her hand dismissively. “Oh, no worries,” she reassured the stranger, not paying enough attention to notice it was the person she had followed until the last minute. “I…I wasn’t paying attention. My mind was elsewhere,” she added a light giggle that sounded a bit more sheepish than she had intended.

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Sat Feb 2, 2019 3:58 PM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

Being rather tall for a woman, Shiloh was dwarfed by the larger denizens of the Ethereal City. Her eyes were focused on the main performer as they danced, changing masks in the blink of an eye. There wasn't any obvious form of concealment, no long sleeves or obscuring helms. Closing her eyes she activated her aura sight, preparing herself for the information flood. Focus, focus straight ahead. On the stage she saw the shape of the shamisen player, but the dancer… "That's a clever trick." She mumbled aloud. So it wasn't the 'dancer' who was real here, it was the masks themselves. There were seven shapes surrounding the illusion, one would fill in the 'face' when it was time for their role. A spirit whose form was actually an innocuous object, she'd have to remember that for later. Among beings called 'youkai' determining their true self wasn't always straightforward. Foxes were easy, despite their talents in transformation. But the shape and form of others like this 'menreiki' performer here could be easily overlooked. The next act was coming on stage as the announcer introduced her. An elegant lady in a kimono with a beautiful red oil-paper parasol painted with birds and flowers presented herself before beginning her dance. 

Shiloh played her own little guessing game again, looking to see what kind of spirit she was. The parasol…there was an odd little line on it that wasn't part of the design. A 'karakasa' spirit–or umbrella. Realizing she was probably sticking out like a sore thumb, she sidled away to a stall for a mask. Staring at the selection on the wall, she wasn't sure which one would be best. Some were weird, too silly, or downright ugly. Of all the days to leave behind her usual mask, it had to be today… After standing still unblinking for a few minutes–which made the stall owner wonder if she was even 'here', she pointed at a black fox mask with gold paint. "Thank you, come again!" The squat raccoon-creature said waving a pipe.Putting it on the side of her head, she could feel there were less stares coming her way. 

"Only a few more hours before curfew. Better make the most of it." The Ethereal City's curfew was still present despite the border's stabilization. Once it was time everyone would close shop and go indoors. But picking up some gifts here might not be so bad. The silk brocades here were richer than Nisshoki's. "So can you tell me about what these patterns mean?" At a kimono stall, she was pointing at the various flower and tree designs she noticed in lots of products. "A visitor, aren't you? I can see by the way you look! Let me tell you, these old eyes know with a single glance." The old man chuckled. "This here's a mens' yukata. You can see the bamboo leaves here, very popular. Pine is also a common one, excellent with the green. For the ladies we have everything from camellias to cherry blossoms. For the more fashionable, matching your kimono with your mood is all the rage now." A long lecture later, she picked out a few garments, one with red maple and another with silver bamboo. The red one reminded her of a certain red-headed dandy who'd likely spend hours preening himself while looking at his reflection, and the silver bamboo was for her husband. Returning to the mask stall again she bought another pair of fox masks for her boys. 

With presents under her arm, she noticed someone who definitely looked out of place. The clothes weren't Ataiyan at all. A first-time visitor? "Ah, enjoying the festival today Fukugami?" Not again. How many acquaintances was she going to run into here? A horned noblewoman bearing a beautiful tiger lily parasol was smiling back. "Lady Shizuka, good afternoon." Shiloh bowed out of habit. "I had no idea there was an event going on today. I can't thank you enough for your help in Apoy. I wasn't sure if we were going to hold out." Lady Shizuka was the head of one of the largest clans in the city, her husband being a general. Her family was a matriarchal one, so that meant she was the boss instead of her man. She was also a very powerful priestess, as her strong magical signature told the deity. "I believe we must also in turn give thanks to you, for restoring Kujishoku's boundaries. With the new wards the Spirit Realm will be able to flourish for millennia to come. Would you like to come and have a seat in the Camellia Pavilion? My husband has been quite eager to meet the new kami presiding over the valley of storms." 

"Sure, I'd be honored–" Too overwhelmed by the sudden request, Shiloh didn't notice where she was backing up. When she took a step behind, she accidentally collided with a red-haired visitor from the outside world. "–Oh, uh sorry." She apologized nervously to Nelanna.  

Author: Nelanna Fox, Posted: Fri Feb 1, 2019 7:48 PM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

Nelanna followed Kohaku through the strange city, one that was not like others she had seen. The decorations were unique, with unknown music playing in some areas, some shops selling interesting looking foods. It seemed to be in the middle of some kind of festival or celebration. At least, that’s how it looked to her. As they made their way down the streets she couldn’t help but notice the odd looks she was getting from the townsfolk, causing her to draw herself closer to her familiar for comfort. She had already noticed that Kohaku, out of the two, seemed to fit in more in appearances. His fox ears were standing tall with the nine tails swaying lightly behind him with his steady strides. He was also wearing a kimono, but one that seemed more for looks than battle compared to his usual samurai kimono.

Nelanna, however, was in her usual elvish-styled clothing, but it was hidden beneath her gray coat that looked more like a beautiful dress. The sleeves were wide at the ends with lighter gray fur, part of a shawl over her shoulders and draping down her chest with a hood -also with fur at the seams- sitting atop her head. Her elf ears were mostly hidden, unless one looks close enough beneath her hood. She was definitely out of place, and everyone knew it.

“Kohaku, how much longer must we stay here?” She asked him quietly, stepping next to him and keeping up with his pace. “I don’t feel…welcomed.”

“Worry not,” he replied reassuringly. “We’re just here to see someone, then we will leave.” That answer wasn’t too pleasing to the Maiden, but she spoke no more on the subject. Soon enough they reached a beautiful wooden building -or shop- with a few signs near the door, all with writing in a language Nelanna did not know. “Wait here,” said Kohaku before entering the building. His poor Master was left alone, wondering why he didn’t want her going inside while she waited uncomfortably. People were still staring at her as they walked by, causing her to squirm a little under their intense gazes.

Then, something caught her eye. There was a child, one that looked similar to Kohaku, running around before tripping. A stranger kindly helped them up. But then, with some kind of magic, the child’s broken toy was swiftly fixed. Nelanna blinked with disbelief, having never seen magic that could fix something so well. And then, she noticed that the person didn’t look like the rest. Not quite. The child took them by the sleeve and guided them away. Drawn by her sudden curiosity, Nelanna’s feet made he go after them.

Up ahead, there was a crowd, all gathered to watch something that Nelanna could not see from so far behind. She was short, too, so that didn’t help. Before she realized it, she lost sight of the stranger and the child, and was caught up by trying to make her way through the crowd. She was getting stepped on, pushed and prodded by elbows of those too intent on watching whatever was going on.

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Fri Feb 1, 2019 12:01 PM, Post Subject: Snow, Moon, and Wine [P]

Glaciem was closing, but there was still a chill in the air as the lofty peaks still held white caps of snow. The weather was slowly warming, and soon the famous cherry trees in Nisshoki would be in full bloom. It was the first real 'day off' she had in forever, thanks to the urging and pushing of her family and staff. But like usual, Shiloh wasn't one to sit idle for long. Even though she wasn't working or making business deals, this wasn't purely a social call. Her efforts in repairing the barrier between the Spirit Realm and the mortal world earned her the respect of a few notable clans, and they were the ones who lent the deity help in the battle on Apoy. To show her gratitude she had sent gifts ahead of time, and in return they had sent her an invitation to participate in a festival within the capital. With the barrier renewed, Kujishoku had become more stable though the nightly hours were still dangerous. The streets were lit from end to end with colorful lanterns, hanging in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Goldfish, lotus blossoms, and the standard globe-like one dangled in chains. A few of these weren't truly lanterns at all–mischievous spirits that would jump out and waggle their tongues before scampering off. The market was lively like any other and stalls selling just about everything were pushing to make their sales today.

The first meeting was with someone her family knew. Hearing news of the death of a certain learned scholar in Nisshoki alarmed her, especially since he once taught the younger of her two sons for a short while. But rumors told her the reported death had been an accident, and instead the real individual had been on leave in his homeland, the Spirit Realm. "The Camellia Pavilion should be here…where is he?" She'd circled the tiered building a few times now and no sign of him. A hand suddenly tapped her shoulder. Out of instinct, she jabbed her elbow backwards only to hit air. Whirling around, she heard that all too-familiar chuckle. A man dressed in elegant robes holding a folded hand fan smiled, clapping his hands. "Still tense like usual, aren't you? Even in this atmosphere your guard wasn't lowered." She narrowed her eyes at the fox. "You said you'd be here, how would I know where to look with crowds like these?" They chatted for a while, mostly him clearing up the details on his 'death'. It was a case of mistaken identity, but the fox decided to play along. He had gained quite a reputation in Ataiyo and took this chance to escape the eye of the upper classes for a while. Foxes didn't have the best reputation in the mortal world and a few were already beginning to grow suspicious of his true nature. After exchanging words and sneaking in a head pat on the deity, the man was off before she could retaliate.

"That old fox…" Shiloh grumbled, fussing as she straightened out her hair repeatedly in annoyance. He knew she hated people touching her head but he still did it anyway. Obviously being much older, he kept treating her like a child and teased her to no end. But he did treat Cyril well, so she'd let him get away with it for now. Back in the market, she browsed the stalls for decorations. Celebrating the turn of the lunar year was a big deal in Nisshoki, and even though they weren't expecting visitors they should try to decorate the house. It'd been a while since she and her entire family had spent time in her husband's house on the edge of the city. A group of children ran by, one of them accidentally tripping and falling down. When he got up, he began to tear up when he saw his pinwheel was broken. Going over, she tapped the child on the shoulder and pointed to the broken toy. "I'll fix it for you." The little fox looked up with wide eyes as she held the broken pieces together and the damage was reversed. Gasping, he took it carefully out of her hands and gave it a spin. "Thanks mister!" Hesitating at the boy's obvious mistake, she tried her best to smile. "…Uh, you're welcome." She sighed. She was used to it by now. She didn't exactly look very feminine after all. 

Preparing to continue her shopping, the boy then tugged at her kimono sleeve. "There's a Menreiki show today on Ginmokusei Street, everybody's going. Wanna see?" With no idea what he was talking about, she reluctantly nodded. "Sure, ok." The next moment she was being led by an excited child down to an open-air stage where a person dressed in costume was performing. There was a large crowd already, the area closest to the stage filled with people. The performer and a musician behind them were acting out a play, the former changing different roles with a swap of a mask. The little boy wormed his way into the group, meeting his friends who were already watching. Normally she wasn't interested in shows, but this one had her attention when she couldn't see how they were switching the masks.