[log] Shiraishi, Eiji & Ryoga - Pathway to truth
Who: Shiraishi Kuranosuke, Kikumaru Eiji and Echizen Ryoga (a.k.a Lord Imriel)
Where: Northern Risath, the estate of Lord Imriel
When: January 6th
What: Shiraishi and Eiji meet, which leads to Eiji asking help from the white mage... only to end up making things difficult.
Rating: PG
Comments: A log will follow after this.
--
The city of Nyper was bustling with people under the warm afternoon sun. Among them was a short redheaded boy of 18, dressed in a set of colorful clothes that were catching much attention from passerby. The boy just smiled at the attention, having grown used to people staring him throughout his youth.
Double-checking the worn parchment in his hand, Eiji squinted at the letters that Imriel had written, counting off the things he had already bought silently. It was shopping day - one of Eiji's favorite days of the week. It was rare that the boy got to leave Imriel's estate except to retrieve necessities from the city, so he cherished the time that he was allowed to wander outside, even if it was simply to do errands. Thanking the vender, the redhead spun around, adding the purchase to his bag before stretching a little with a yawn, wishing, yet again, that his Lord Imriel would have come with him. It was rather dull to go out by oneself.
'Maybe I should spice things up a bit?' Eiji thought to himself, shouldering his bag before looking around the area. Spotting a clear area around one of the corners, the small boy made his way to it, carefully setting the bag up against a wall.
Without further ado the redhead did a small series of backbends and flips, landing the last one in what should have been an impossible position. Smiling at the applause he stood up and gave a small bow, asking the crowd if they had requests.
Shiraishi had a quite rare day off. Yuushi had other business to attend to, so lessons were cancelled. That gave him a good opportunity to explore the capital city, Nyper. It wasn’t much different from Eldan, but it had a certain atmosphere that bothered Shiraishi. He was so far away from home and a place like that didn’t bring him comfort. Nothing did, actually.
A crowd had formed to a corner of a street. Curiously Shiraishi walked to see what it was about. Probably it was some sort of a street performer. He had rarely seen those, so it might have been a good chance to witness something like it.
Luckily enough, he was able to find a good spot to view the redhead in action.
The group had grown to a rather problematic size. Not for Eiji - but for general passerbys. At this point, people were stopping to watch him whether they wanted to or not - simply because the road was blocked by on-lookers. The redhead, of course, didn't mind the attention in the least, thriving on it. Not to mention a near steady fall of coins raining at his feet. Lord Imriel would be pleased, he was sure.
On request, Eiji did another series of flips and spins, once again twisting his body in ways that looked painful if not bone breaking. One person asked him how far he could bend his arm backwards... to quite an astonished gasp from the crowd with the acrobat bent it nearly in two with no effort, the bells on his wrists and ankles jingling merrily.
After about twenty more minutes Eiji happened to see the position of the sun and frowned. "Aaa.... sorry everyone - but that's enough for today," he announced to saddened faces. "I promise next time I come to town I'll do it again - just look for the Incredible Eiji no Eglantine," he winked, giving another bow to a roar of applause before reaching for his bag to start scooping up the coins.
Shiraishi was clapping with the crowd when he heard the redhead say his name. Wasn’t that the boy from the journals he had talked to a few times? Shiraishi waited until some of the crowd had moved away from the place and approached the younger boy. “Your performance was amazing”, he said, not sure what else to say.
Eiji had only just finished piling the coins into his bag when Shiraishi spoke up over the bustling crowd. He raised his sapphire eyes up to the taller man, flashing him a grin before straightening his back. "Thanks. I'm really glad you enjoyed it-nya~" he replied with a stretch. The other's accent wasn't quite Nyperian which made him pause, taking a closer look at the other.
"You're not from around here, are you?" It was blunt, yes - but Eiji was rarely subtle unless he had to be. He hardly thought that asking someone where they were from would be seen as an offensive comment.
Shiraishi blinked. Was it that obvious? Well, he did speak in a slight different way than the others around the place. “Ah, no… I’m just staying here for the time being. I’m originally from Raytin”, he said.
After a small thought he decided to ask a question as well. “Hey… do you happen to have a magical journal? I think I’ve spoken to an Eiji through them.”
It was obvious to Eiji that the other man was more than a little shocked at Eiji's guess that he wasn't a residence. "Your accent. It didn't sound Nyperian... more like Raytinia- ha~ I knew it," the redhead finished with a grin. Having traveled the nations Eiji prided himself in the knowledge of cultures and accents from just about anywhere.
The next sentance took him a bit by surprise. He had spoken to several Raytinian's through the mysterious journal that Lord Imriel had bestowed upon him. Which one was this... ? "Yeah... Yeah I do! Oh wow... looks like we're meeting each other sooner than later... which one are you?" he asked, with an honest, though a little embarrassed smile.
Well, he had been right with his guess. Shiraishi smiled. He hadn’t imagined meeting with Eiji or anyone from Risath so soon… well, except the ones he had met before. “I’m Shiraishi. The white mage from Eldan.”
His grin grew wider, accompanied by the jingling of the bells about his extremities. "Oooh, I remember you," he partially sang, offering a hand in greeting followed by a quick hug. "You look... nothing like what I thought you would - but that's totally okay. It's really nice to put a face to the writing~" And it was. Though he liked the diary a lot - he didn't like talking to weird writing that showed up in it. This made everything more or less 'real'.
“Ahaha, I don’t? What did you imagine me to look like?” Shiraishi asked with an amused tone. It was rather nice that he had met Eiji of all the contacts in Risath. He had seemed the nicest of them all, at least in Shiraishi’s opinion. And the lord Imriel he had talked about sounded as nice as well.
The thought made Shiraishi look around. Nope, there wasn’t anyone else around. “You’re alone this time?”
The redhead frowned, staring hard at the other man. "I dunno... maybe taller-nya, and older." Normally when the acrobat thought of mages they looked a lot older than Shiraishi. He knew it was foolish to think thusly. Mages were born just like everyone else, it was only natural that they would be 'young' as well. Look at Sakura.
"Alone... yeah... Oh! You're talking about Lord Imriel," he added with a grin, shifting the bag on his shoulder. "My Lord is back at home today. I was just sent out to grab some food and things. I guess I got a little carried away... sometimes I miss street performing."
Shiraishi laughed a bit. “Well, I’m a bit older than I look, but I’ll look as young a while”, he said with a small wink. With the talk about Lord Imriel he nodded slightly.
“Is he still unable to leave for journeys? You spoke of some illness he had?”
"Luckkkkkyyyyy," Eiji sing-sang. Mage's and Elves really had it easy. The redhead would have killed to look young for 50 years. "Why oh why couldn't I have been born a Mage... " he asked before shrugging it off. "Oh well - I guess I'll just make the best of being young while I can."
At mention of Imriel, Eiji perked. "Oh... he's still a little out of it - and besides-nya, my Lord doesn't travel much. I'm always the one to come to town."
Eiji seemed hyped about the age issue, so Shiraishi decided it was best not to mention staying young also brought trouble. Living longer than your human friends was the saddest thing. Shiraishi couldn’t even imagine what it was like to elves.
And hearing Eiji had to travel alone to buy groceries made him feel a bit sorry for him. Why would anyone have to travel alone? Even small journeys felt ridiculously long when you didn’t have anyone to talk to. Well, nowadays you had journals, but real people next to you. “Is there any reason as to why he doesn’t travel much? Like age or old injury…?”
He shook his head, though smiled at Shiraishi. Eiji had absolutely no problem doing such tasks that his lord bestowed upon him. Imriel had taken him in when everyone else in his life had cast him away. He owed the man everything and was all too willing to repay him in any way he could. Just knowing that Lord Imriel would appreciate what he was doing... perhaps give him a smile when he returned made the journey bearable.
"Lord Imriel simply doesn't like to travel. I guess there are comforts or something that he gets at home that he can't receive on the road-nya." Eiji had never asked his Lord about such things. He didn't want to seem ungrateful or upset Imriel in any way. "I don't mind doing it, though. It gets stuffy at the estate."
“I see”, Shiraishi nodded. It seemed strange that someone would like to stay in all the time. Then again, he didn’t like traveling that much either… at least not this far away. Traveling to his birthplace was a whole different thing. “Are you going back now?”
"Huh?" The redhead looked back at Shiraishi, his mind already having had been on the journey home. It would be rather difficult to attach all of his goods to his horse. Still, he would manage. He'd have to, even if he had to lead the horse back to the estate on foot. "Oh... yeah. I just thought I would leave with a bang, you know?" he grinned, starting to walk a little away before pausing. "W-wait. You're a white mage, right - Kuranosuke?" Nibbling his lip, he held his breath a moment before continuing. ".... My Lord Imriel... do you have anything that might help with his condition?" he asked.
Well, that was a quick meeting, the white mage thought. He hoped he would meet the young boy again… though this meeting didn’t seem to be over yet. Shiraishi blinked at the human boy. “His condition? Is there something wrong with him, after all?” he asked, sounding a bit worried.
"Not exactly. Well yes-nya... and no." In honesty Eiji had no idea if there was something phyisically wrong with Imriel or not. He had guessed there was, however. His Lord never left the estate but for very small amounts of time - and as of late he seemed to had lost his will to do even that. It truly was troubling the tumbler. "I find myself worrying about him, even if he tells me it's nothing. It's my job to worry about him though... or I think it is."
“It is. You’re his friend and you should worry about your friends if there’s even the slightest reason to”, Shiraishi said and looked like he was thinking a lot. “But… I can’t help you unless I know what’s wrong with him. I’d need to examine him first.”
"Examine...?" he asked, rubbing the back of his neck. Examine meant that they would need Imriel present... and as his Lord didn't travel much that would mean taking Kuranosuke to the estate. Eiji was torn, unsure if he should or shouldn't. It would be for Imriel's own good, he reasoned. He was rightly concerned... "Well.... if you don't mind traveling... I can take you to him?"
Shiraishi shook his head. “I don’t, as long as I’m back before the next noon. I only have this day off, after all”, he said with a small smile. “Is it far away?” He hadn’t traveled in Risath more than he had had to. So it would be an experience. Besides, he would probably be able to help a dear friend of Eiji’s. That was always a good thing. And Yuushi shouldn’t complain, since it was practice, after all.
"Not that far," Eiji chimed, leading the way out of the city to his horse. This would be an issue, if Shiraishi hadn't his own. "Do you... by chance have a horse?" he asked, already tying his bags onto the saddle. Once done he brought the horses neck to his cheek in a hug of thanks before rubbing it's ears. It neighed in appreciation. "I don't think Leniar will be able to carry us both-nya."
“Actually, I do have a horse”, Shiraishi said with a small nod. “She’s not mine for good, but while I’m staying here. So Leniar won’t have to try to carry the burden”, he added and patted the horse a little before turning. “I’ll be right back. Evelyn is at the castle stables. But if I ride her back here it shouldn’t take too long.”
The redhead nodded in consent, giving the other a smile in return. "I'll wait here." Eiji watched the other man go until he could no longer see Kuranosuke's back. Then he turned back to his other companion, giving Leniar another good scratch. Reaching into his traveling pack, Eiji removed a loaf of bread for himself, along with a small package of cheese. Next we withdrew three apples, holding the first out to the horse who gobbled it up greedily. Smiling, Eiji started on his lunch.
The road to the stables was a rather long one, but there are beautiful white horse waited for Shiraishi. Smiling, the young white mage prepared his friend for a journey to the unknown. At least that it was for him. He didn’t know if Evelyn had gone there before. But it didn’t matter. Shiraishi patted the horses head and hopped onto her back. “Let’s go then. We have someone waiting for us.”
Evelyn moved smoothly. Nothing seemed to be bothering her. Shiraishi felt at ease. The horse might have not been like anyone at home, but she was great. Obedient and calm, just what he needed.
And before Shiraishi knew he was back to where Eiji was. Smiling, he greeted the younger man again. “I’m ready.”
Eiji was sitting, his back against a tree, arm thrown over his eyes to block out the suns rays. It had been a very early morning for him, having had to leave for the market at dawn break. At the sound of Shiraishi's voice Eiji started, moving his arm so he could see the other man. "Oh.. great - lets go than, shall we?" Standing up he crossed over to the waiting Leniar, patting him once before mounting. "It's about an hour and a half to the north.. just follow me-nya~"
Shiraishi nodded and waited for Eiji to leave first, before making Evelyn follow them. The horse seemed to be rather interest in the other of its kind, but behaved like a good lady should. Shiraishi patted his companion and looked at the scenery around him. It was indeed different from what he was used to… but it wasn’t bad. Nothing that nature brought was. It was the humans, elves and mages who did wrong. That’s why Shiraishi felt easier in the calm of the forests. The home of nature… even though, he wouldn’t leave the castle to live in there. He had something to return to, there waiting for him.
The journey back to Lord Imriel's estate was ultimately uneventful but for a few songs sung by Eiji and random small talk between the pair of travelers. They paused once by the river to allow the horses to quench their thirst, staying but a moment before pressing forth. After several hours Eiji reined his horse, nodding ahead to the estate. "There, though I should probably announce you first."
Shiraishi got off Evelyn’s back and nodded. “Do what you need to. I will wait”, he said and patted the horses head a little. She had done well, bringing them here. It was amazing how horses were able to stand so much. It was winter in Risath as well, yet she had traveled well. Though winter in here seemed to be somewhat warmer… at least Shiraishi wasn’t too cold. And Nyper hadn’t had much snow and it was even warmer… “It’s even warm here, so take your time.”
"Okay, but I won't keep you waiting long, I promise," Eiji smiled back at Shiraishi as he dismounted and led the horse to the stables. After making sure he was settled in, Eiji made his way into the house properly, poking around for his master. "Lord Imriel?" he called tentitively.
Ryoga was reading journals through his own copy, checking on what was going on in the outside world. It did seem like he was just reading a normal book, which was a nice thing when you didn’t want anyone to know he even had the journal. At least, not Eiji, who had just arrived back from his journey… “You’re quite late aren’t you, Eiji”, he said with a calm voice.
The red head winced a little at the words, even though the tone wasn't threatening. A moment later he brightened however, simply glad to be back home. "I'm sorry. I got a little carried away with my errand, though I managed to get everything on your list."
Shuffling his feet, Eiji wondered at how to approach the subject at hand. "Also... as you've not been feeling well, I think I may have found something that will help that too."
Ryoga frowned. “I have told you, have I not? I don’t need anything.” He got up from the chair and walked over to the nearest table to pour himself a glass of water. “I appreciate the thought, but really… I’m fine, Eiji.”
Mayhap it would be the same as pulling a bandage - if he said it quickly it would hurt him less in the long run. Really Imriel couldn't say anything - he was only looking out for him. "Actually, my Lord, I already brought him....nyo..."
“…him? Who is this he?” This might have been a bad thing. If he had brought a white mage to visit him, it might have been from the castle and that would mean Ryoga would be recognized. Normal folk usually didn’t see him, so he might have been safe… but he doubted it.
Something told Eiji that his Lord wasn't pleased with this news. "His name is Shiraishi Kuranosuke. He's a friend of mine from that magic journal you gave me-nya. I told him you haven't been feeling well when I met him in town and he said he would assist in any way he could... so. Please... please let him help you." Looking away from Imriel, Eiji frowned. "I've been so worried... and if Kuranosuke can just tell me you're okay... I'll feel a lot better."
Well, it wasn’t anyone from the castle. At least not from this castle…. damn that Eiji, for making things difficult. Luckily there would be ways to fix things… at least try to fix things. Everything could go wrong though. “… fine. As long as you give us some privacy… since I don’t like being exposed to many people. You could do some chores while he examines me, yeah?”
The smile that shone on Eiji's face could surely rival the stars above. Imriel wouldn't turn away treatment as Eiji feared only a moment earlier. "Of course. I'll tend to the horses and start helping to prepare dinner." Bowing with a bounce, Eiji made his way back outside to the waiting Shiraishi. "Okay, I'll bring you inside now-nya."
Shiraishi had been examining the outside winter plants when Eiji came back. He smiled at the redhead and nodded. “That didn’t take too long”, he said cheerfully.
The redhead nodded. "I just needed to explain to my Lord that I brought you back with me. He wishes to see you privately, if that's alright. I'll tend to your horse in the meantime." With that he led the Shiraishi and his mount to the stables, settling the horse into a stall before leading Shiraishi inside and to the door to Imriel's study. "He's waiting for you."
“Thank you, Eiji. I will tell you the results once I’m done”, Shiraishi said and entered lord Imriel’s study after Eiji had left for the stables. “Lord Imriel?” he called out and stopped once he saw a figure standing in the room. “I’m Shiraishi. Eiji told you I was coming.”
“Ah… yes. Thank you”, Ryoga said and then turned around. “I’m glad you would help such poor, unfortunate soul.”
Shiraishi froze as he saw the other mans’ face. It wasn’t because of any injury or of a disease. It was just like seeing a ghost. A royal ghost, even. “Well, I have to say, lord Imriel, you look nothing like poor…” he said after gathering himself again.
Ryoga smirked. “Why thank you, young mage. Though you seem to have a lot of things in your mind... Do tell me your worries.”
“Oh, how wonderful of you to have concern for others”, Shiraishi said. While he was still shocked, he started to feel a bit frustrated. There was a War going on. A war because prince Ryoga had been killed. And there he was, standing in front of him. Alive. “Even though, you would think a man like you would have done something for the good of kingdoms…”
“Oh ho? But I am only a modest lord of this estate”, Ryoga said with mockery on his voice. “And there will be no one to testify otherwise. Since you have no way of surviving out of this forest alive with your incompetent abilities… You will lose, just like last time.”
Just like last time…? Shiraishi blinked. Wait. Did that mean… Shiraishi clenched his hand into a fist.
What a way to make someone nervous. Ryoga chuckled quietly. “So you better just surrender. I’m sure you can be saved if you start pleading for your life this instant-“
“Ignis!” There wasn’t always need for saying spells out loud, but he had been thought that sometimes saying them would make them work for the cause. Like burning Ryogas hair. Yeah, that was fire for good use. Shiraishi looked at the yelping prince and looked quickly for some proof of the identity.
Ryoga was trying to put out the fire on his hair and didn’t even notice Shiraishi taking the family crest knife out of his belt before it was too late. Shiraishi had gone out of the door when Ryogas henchmen of the Rebels came storming in from other door. Ryoga was able to put out the fire and yelled. “What are you waiting for?! After him!”
Shiraishi ran out of the estates and right into the stables, looking for Eiji. Once he stopped the younger, he ran to him. “Quick, Eiji, we need to flee.”
Eiji had kept to his word. The moment he had left Shiraishi's presence the redhead had retreated to the stables, giving feed to both of the horses, water as well. When Shiraishi had spotted him, the acrobat had busied himself with Evelyn, rubbing her coat with a sheen brush, massaging her tired muscles. "Nya?" he frowned, turning around to face Shiraishi. That was the fastest doctors visit he had ever seen.
"Is it that bad? Does he need medicine? I knew I should have done something about it earlier..."
“No. He’s fine. Except he is no lord”, Shiraishi said with a really panicked voice. Though he seemed quite calm, which was quite a miracle. “He is a traitor of this Kingdom. Crown Prince Ryoga”, he continued and showed that knife, that has the Royal family crest.
The dagger in Shiraishi's outheld hand didn't belong to him. Eiji knew it to be his Lord Imriel's, having spied it more than once in the study. He had wondered about the crest prior to this - but had never expected the lunacy that Kuranosuke was now spouting. "What? No, his name is Imriel-nya. And give me that, that's my Master's..."
“He is the prince. Even that conversation with that knight, about Jackal, makes now sense. That’s why I…cannot give this to you”, Shiraishi said and put the knife to his pocket. “It’s an important proof to the King that his son is alive. Even if it will hurt the family…” Sounds were heard from outside, but not yet near the stables. “Eiji, I’m asking you one more time, please… come with me.”
This was all a weird, over-exaggerated mix-up. It had to be. Imriel was Imriel, the same caring man that he had always been. "I don't believe you, Kuranosuke." The tone made it so that the subject was no longer up for debate. "And I'm not going with you. Imriel is my Lord... everything I have - my very life - I owe to that man. I will not betray him." He frowned, wondering if he should get the knife back... but ultimately decided against it. It was a lie anyway - and he could always buy Imriel a new knife. This way maybe they could still be friends.
"I won't stop you from leaving-nyo. But I'm not going with you."
Sadness filled Shiraishi’s eyes. “I see”, he said with a defeated voice. Then he walked to the stall where Evelyn was. “I’m sorry, Eiji. And thank you, for taking care of Evelyn. I hope that you will be fine, even if you see the truth”, he said and mounted the horse. She didn’t have her saddle on, but there was no time to put it on her. After he was ready enough, he left the stables with Evelyn, running as fast as she could.
Where: Northern Risath, the estate of Lord Imriel
When: January 6th
What: Shiraishi and Eiji meet, which leads to Eiji asking help from the white mage... only to end up making things difficult.
Rating: PG
Comments: A log will follow after this.
--
The city of Nyper was bustling with people under the warm afternoon sun. Among them was a short redheaded boy of 18, dressed in a set of colorful clothes that were catching much attention from passerby. The boy just smiled at the attention, having grown used to people staring him throughout his youth.
Double-checking the worn parchment in his hand, Eiji squinted at the letters that Imriel had written, counting off the things he had already bought silently. It was shopping day - one of Eiji's favorite days of the week. It was rare that the boy got to leave Imriel's estate except to retrieve necessities from the city, so he cherished the time that he was allowed to wander outside, even if it was simply to do errands. Thanking the vender, the redhead spun around, adding the purchase to his bag before stretching a little with a yawn, wishing, yet again, that his Lord Imriel would have come with him. It was rather dull to go out by oneself.
'Maybe I should spice things up a bit?' Eiji thought to himself, shouldering his bag before looking around the area. Spotting a clear area around one of the corners, the small boy made his way to it, carefully setting the bag up against a wall.
Without further ado the redhead did a small series of backbends and flips, landing the last one in what should have been an impossible position. Smiling at the applause he stood up and gave a small bow, asking the crowd if they had requests.
Shiraishi had a quite rare day off. Yuushi had other business to attend to, so lessons were cancelled. That gave him a good opportunity to explore the capital city, Nyper. It wasn’t much different from Eldan, but it had a certain atmosphere that bothered Shiraishi. He was so far away from home and a place like that didn’t bring him comfort. Nothing did, actually.
A crowd had formed to a corner of a street. Curiously Shiraishi walked to see what it was about. Probably it was some sort of a street performer. He had rarely seen those, so it might have been a good chance to witness something like it.
Luckily enough, he was able to find a good spot to view the redhead in action.
The group had grown to a rather problematic size. Not for Eiji - but for general passerbys. At this point, people were stopping to watch him whether they wanted to or not - simply because the road was blocked by on-lookers. The redhead, of course, didn't mind the attention in the least, thriving on it. Not to mention a near steady fall of coins raining at his feet. Lord Imriel would be pleased, he was sure.
On request, Eiji did another series of flips and spins, once again twisting his body in ways that looked painful if not bone breaking. One person asked him how far he could bend his arm backwards... to quite an astonished gasp from the crowd with the acrobat bent it nearly in two with no effort, the bells on his wrists and ankles jingling merrily.
After about twenty more minutes Eiji happened to see the position of the sun and frowned. "Aaa.... sorry everyone - but that's enough for today," he announced to saddened faces. "I promise next time I come to town I'll do it again - just look for the Incredible Eiji no Eglantine," he winked, giving another bow to a roar of applause before reaching for his bag to start scooping up the coins.
Shiraishi was clapping with the crowd when he heard the redhead say his name. Wasn’t that the boy from the journals he had talked to a few times? Shiraishi waited until some of the crowd had moved away from the place and approached the younger boy. “Your performance was amazing”, he said, not sure what else to say.
Eiji had only just finished piling the coins into his bag when Shiraishi spoke up over the bustling crowd. He raised his sapphire eyes up to the taller man, flashing him a grin before straightening his back. "Thanks. I'm really glad you enjoyed it-nya~" he replied with a stretch. The other's accent wasn't quite Nyperian which made him pause, taking a closer look at the other.
"You're not from around here, are you?" It was blunt, yes - but Eiji was rarely subtle unless he had to be. He hardly thought that asking someone where they were from would be seen as an offensive comment.
Shiraishi blinked. Was it that obvious? Well, he did speak in a slight different way than the others around the place. “Ah, no… I’m just staying here for the time being. I’m originally from Raytin”, he said.
After a small thought he decided to ask a question as well. “Hey… do you happen to have a magical journal? I think I’ve spoken to an Eiji through them.”
It was obvious to Eiji that the other man was more than a little shocked at Eiji's guess that he wasn't a residence. "Your accent. It didn't sound Nyperian... more like Raytinia- ha~ I knew it," the redhead finished with a grin. Having traveled the nations Eiji prided himself in the knowledge of cultures and accents from just about anywhere.
The next sentance took him a bit by surprise. He had spoken to several Raytinian's through the mysterious journal that Lord Imriel had bestowed upon him. Which one was this... ? "Yeah... Yeah I do! Oh wow... looks like we're meeting each other sooner than later... which one are you?" he asked, with an honest, though a little embarrassed smile.
Well, he had been right with his guess. Shiraishi smiled. He hadn’t imagined meeting with Eiji or anyone from Risath so soon… well, except the ones he had met before. “I’m Shiraishi. The white mage from Eldan.”
His grin grew wider, accompanied by the jingling of the bells about his extremities. "Oooh, I remember you," he partially sang, offering a hand in greeting followed by a quick hug. "You look... nothing like what I thought you would - but that's totally okay. It's really nice to put a face to the writing~" And it was. Though he liked the diary a lot - he didn't like talking to weird writing that showed up in it. This made everything more or less 'real'.
“Ahaha, I don’t? What did you imagine me to look like?” Shiraishi asked with an amused tone. It was rather nice that he had met Eiji of all the contacts in Risath. He had seemed the nicest of them all, at least in Shiraishi’s opinion. And the lord Imriel he had talked about sounded as nice as well.
The thought made Shiraishi look around. Nope, there wasn’t anyone else around. “You’re alone this time?”
The redhead frowned, staring hard at the other man. "I dunno... maybe taller-nya, and older." Normally when the acrobat thought of mages they looked a lot older than Shiraishi. He knew it was foolish to think thusly. Mages were born just like everyone else, it was only natural that they would be 'young' as well. Look at Sakura.
"Alone... yeah... Oh! You're talking about Lord Imriel," he added with a grin, shifting the bag on his shoulder. "My Lord is back at home today. I was just sent out to grab some food and things. I guess I got a little carried away... sometimes I miss street performing."
Shiraishi laughed a bit. “Well, I’m a bit older than I look, but I’ll look as young a while”, he said with a small wink. With the talk about Lord Imriel he nodded slightly.
“Is he still unable to leave for journeys? You spoke of some illness he had?”
"Luckkkkkyyyyy," Eiji sing-sang. Mage's and Elves really had it easy. The redhead would have killed to look young for 50 years. "Why oh why couldn't I have been born a Mage... " he asked before shrugging it off. "Oh well - I guess I'll just make the best of being young while I can."
At mention of Imriel, Eiji perked. "Oh... he's still a little out of it - and besides-nya, my Lord doesn't travel much. I'm always the one to come to town."
Eiji seemed hyped about the age issue, so Shiraishi decided it was best not to mention staying young also brought trouble. Living longer than your human friends was the saddest thing. Shiraishi couldn’t even imagine what it was like to elves.
And hearing Eiji had to travel alone to buy groceries made him feel a bit sorry for him. Why would anyone have to travel alone? Even small journeys felt ridiculously long when you didn’t have anyone to talk to. Well, nowadays you had journals, but real people next to you. “Is there any reason as to why he doesn’t travel much? Like age or old injury…?”
He shook his head, though smiled at Shiraishi. Eiji had absolutely no problem doing such tasks that his lord bestowed upon him. Imriel had taken him in when everyone else in his life had cast him away. He owed the man everything and was all too willing to repay him in any way he could. Just knowing that Lord Imriel would appreciate what he was doing... perhaps give him a smile when he returned made the journey bearable.
"Lord Imriel simply doesn't like to travel. I guess there are comforts or something that he gets at home that he can't receive on the road-nya." Eiji had never asked his Lord about such things. He didn't want to seem ungrateful or upset Imriel in any way. "I don't mind doing it, though. It gets stuffy at the estate."
“I see”, Shiraishi nodded. It seemed strange that someone would like to stay in all the time. Then again, he didn’t like traveling that much either… at least not this far away. Traveling to his birthplace was a whole different thing. “Are you going back now?”
"Huh?" The redhead looked back at Shiraishi, his mind already having had been on the journey home. It would be rather difficult to attach all of his goods to his horse. Still, he would manage. He'd have to, even if he had to lead the horse back to the estate on foot. "Oh... yeah. I just thought I would leave with a bang, you know?" he grinned, starting to walk a little away before pausing. "W-wait. You're a white mage, right - Kuranosuke?" Nibbling his lip, he held his breath a moment before continuing. ".... My Lord Imriel... do you have anything that might help with his condition?" he asked.
Well, that was a quick meeting, the white mage thought. He hoped he would meet the young boy again… though this meeting didn’t seem to be over yet. Shiraishi blinked at the human boy. “His condition? Is there something wrong with him, after all?” he asked, sounding a bit worried.
"Not exactly. Well yes-nya... and no." In honesty Eiji had no idea if there was something phyisically wrong with Imriel or not. He had guessed there was, however. His Lord never left the estate but for very small amounts of time - and as of late he seemed to had lost his will to do even that. It truly was troubling the tumbler. "I find myself worrying about him, even if he tells me it's nothing. It's my job to worry about him though... or I think it is."
“It is. You’re his friend and you should worry about your friends if there’s even the slightest reason to”, Shiraishi said and looked like he was thinking a lot. “But… I can’t help you unless I know what’s wrong with him. I’d need to examine him first.”
"Examine...?" he asked, rubbing the back of his neck. Examine meant that they would need Imriel present... and as his Lord didn't travel much that would mean taking Kuranosuke to the estate. Eiji was torn, unsure if he should or shouldn't. It would be for Imriel's own good, he reasoned. He was rightly concerned... "Well.... if you don't mind traveling... I can take you to him?"
Shiraishi shook his head. “I don’t, as long as I’m back before the next noon. I only have this day off, after all”, he said with a small smile. “Is it far away?” He hadn’t traveled in Risath more than he had had to. So it would be an experience. Besides, he would probably be able to help a dear friend of Eiji’s. That was always a good thing. And Yuushi shouldn’t complain, since it was practice, after all.
"Not that far," Eiji chimed, leading the way out of the city to his horse. This would be an issue, if Shiraishi hadn't his own. "Do you... by chance have a horse?" he asked, already tying his bags onto the saddle. Once done he brought the horses neck to his cheek in a hug of thanks before rubbing it's ears. It neighed in appreciation. "I don't think Leniar will be able to carry us both-nya."
“Actually, I do have a horse”, Shiraishi said with a small nod. “She’s not mine for good, but while I’m staying here. So Leniar won’t have to try to carry the burden”, he added and patted the horse a little before turning. “I’ll be right back. Evelyn is at the castle stables. But if I ride her back here it shouldn’t take too long.”
The redhead nodded in consent, giving the other a smile in return. "I'll wait here." Eiji watched the other man go until he could no longer see Kuranosuke's back. Then he turned back to his other companion, giving Leniar another good scratch. Reaching into his traveling pack, Eiji removed a loaf of bread for himself, along with a small package of cheese. Next we withdrew three apples, holding the first out to the horse who gobbled it up greedily. Smiling, Eiji started on his lunch.
The road to the stables was a rather long one, but there are beautiful white horse waited for Shiraishi. Smiling, the young white mage prepared his friend for a journey to the unknown. At least that it was for him. He didn’t know if Evelyn had gone there before. But it didn’t matter. Shiraishi patted the horses head and hopped onto her back. “Let’s go then. We have someone waiting for us.”
Evelyn moved smoothly. Nothing seemed to be bothering her. Shiraishi felt at ease. The horse might have not been like anyone at home, but she was great. Obedient and calm, just what he needed.
And before Shiraishi knew he was back to where Eiji was. Smiling, he greeted the younger man again. “I’m ready.”
Eiji was sitting, his back against a tree, arm thrown over his eyes to block out the suns rays. It had been a very early morning for him, having had to leave for the market at dawn break. At the sound of Shiraishi's voice Eiji started, moving his arm so he could see the other man. "Oh.. great - lets go than, shall we?" Standing up he crossed over to the waiting Leniar, patting him once before mounting. "It's about an hour and a half to the north.. just follow me-nya~"
Shiraishi nodded and waited for Eiji to leave first, before making Evelyn follow them. The horse seemed to be rather interest in the other of its kind, but behaved like a good lady should. Shiraishi patted his companion and looked at the scenery around him. It was indeed different from what he was used to… but it wasn’t bad. Nothing that nature brought was. It was the humans, elves and mages who did wrong. That’s why Shiraishi felt easier in the calm of the forests. The home of nature… even though, he wouldn’t leave the castle to live in there. He had something to return to, there waiting for him.
The journey back to Lord Imriel's estate was ultimately uneventful but for a few songs sung by Eiji and random small talk between the pair of travelers. They paused once by the river to allow the horses to quench their thirst, staying but a moment before pressing forth. After several hours Eiji reined his horse, nodding ahead to the estate. "There, though I should probably announce you first."
Shiraishi got off Evelyn’s back and nodded. “Do what you need to. I will wait”, he said and patted the horses head a little. She had done well, bringing them here. It was amazing how horses were able to stand so much. It was winter in Risath as well, yet she had traveled well. Though winter in here seemed to be somewhat warmer… at least Shiraishi wasn’t too cold. And Nyper hadn’t had much snow and it was even warmer… “It’s even warm here, so take your time.”
"Okay, but I won't keep you waiting long, I promise," Eiji smiled back at Shiraishi as he dismounted and led the horse to the stables. After making sure he was settled in, Eiji made his way into the house properly, poking around for his master. "Lord Imriel?" he called tentitively.
Ryoga was reading journals through his own copy, checking on what was going on in the outside world. It did seem like he was just reading a normal book, which was a nice thing when you didn’t want anyone to know he even had the journal. At least, not Eiji, who had just arrived back from his journey… “You’re quite late aren’t you, Eiji”, he said with a calm voice.
The red head winced a little at the words, even though the tone wasn't threatening. A moment later he brightened however, simply glad to be back home. "I'm sorry. I got a little carried away with my errand, though I managed to get everything on your list."
Shuffling his feet, Eiji wondered at how to approach the subject at hand. "Also... as you've not been feeling well, I think I may have found something that will help that too."
Ryoga frowned. “I have told you, have I not? I don’t need anything.” He got up from the chair and walked over to the nearest table to pour himself a glass of water. “I appreciate the thought, but really… I’m fine, Eiji.”
Mayhap it would be the same as pulling a bandage - if he said it quickly it would hurt him less in the long run. Really Imriel couldn't say anything - he was only looking out for him. "Actually, my Lord, I already brought him....nyo..."
“…him? Who is this he?” This might have been a bad thing. If he had brought a white mage to visit him, it might have been from the castle and that would mean Ryoga would be recognized. Normal folk usually didn’t see him, so he might have been safe… but he doubted it.
Something told Eiji that his Lord wasn't pleased with this news. "His name is Shiraishi Kuranosuke. He's a friend of mine from that magic journal you gave me-nya. I told him you haven't been feeling well when I met him in town and he said he would assist in any way he could... so. Please... please let him help you." Looking away from Imriel, Eiji frowned. "I've been so worried... and if Kuranosuke can just tell me you're okay... I'll feel a lot better."
Well, it wasn’t anyone from the castle. At least not from this castle…. damn that Eiji, for making things difficult. Luckily there would be ways to fix things… at least try to fix things. Everything could go wrong though. “… fine. As long as you give us some privacy… since I don’t like being exposed to many people. You could do some chores while he examines me, yeah?”
The smile that shone on Eiji's face could surely rival the stars above. Imriel wouldn't turn away treatment as Eiji feared only a moment earlier. "Of course. I'll tend to the horses and start helping to prepare dinner." Bowing with a bounce, Eiji made his way back outside to the waiting Shiraishi. "Okay, I'll bring you inside now-nya."
Shiraishi had been examining the outside winter plants when Eiji came back. He smiled at the redhead and nodded. “That didn’t take too long”, he said cheerfully.
The redhead nodded. "I just needed to explain to my Lord that I brought you back with me. He wishes to see you privately, if that's alright. I'll tend to your horse in the meantime." With that he led the Shiraishi and his mount to the stables, settling the horse into a stall before leading Shiraishi inside and to the door to Imriel's study. "He's waiting for you."
“Thank you, Eiji. I will tell you the results once I’m done”, Shiraishi said and entered lord Imriel’s study after Eiji had left for the stables. “Lord Imriel?” he called out and stopped once he saw a figure standing in the room. “I’m Shiraishi. Eiji told you I was coming.”
“Ah… yes. Thank you”, Ryoga said and then turned around. “I’m glad you would help such poor, unfortunate soul.”
Shiraishi froze as he saw the other mans’ face. It wasn’t because of any injury or of a disease. It was just like seeing a ghost. A royal ghost, even. “Well, I have to say, lord Imriel, you look nothing like poor…” he said after gathering himself again.
Ryoga smirked. “Why thank you, young mage. Though you seem to have a lot of things in your mind... Do tell me your worries.”
“Oh, how wonderful of you to have concern for others”, Shiraishi said. While he was still shocked, he started to feel a bit frustrated. There was a War going on. A war because prince Ryoga had been killed. And there he was, standing in front of him. Alive. “Even though, you would think a man like you would have done something for the good of kingdoms…”
“Oh ho? But I am only a modest lord of this estate”, Ryoga said with mockery on his voice. “And there will be no one to testify otherwise. Since you have no way of surviving out of this forest alive with your incompetent abilities… You will lose, just like last time.”
Just like last time…? Shiraishi blinked. Wait. Did that mean… Shiraishi clenched his hand into a fist.
What a way to make someone nervous. Ryoga chuckled quietly. “So you better just surrender. I’m sure you can be saved if you start pleading for your life this instant-“
“Ignis!” There wasn’t always need for saying spells out loud, but he had been thought that sometimes saying them would make them work for the cause. Like burning Ryogas hair. Yeah, that was fire for good use. Shiraishi looked at the yelping prince and looked quickly for some proof of the identity.
Ryoga was trying to put out the fire on his hair and didn’t even notice Shiraishi taking the family crest knife out of his belt before it was too late. Shiraishi had gone out of the door when Ryogas henchmen of the Rebels came storming in from other door. Ryoga was able to put out the fire and yelled. “What are you waiting for?! After him!”
Shiraishi ran out of the estates and right into the stables, looking for Eiji. Once he stopped the younger, he ran to him. “Quick, Eiji, we need to flee.”
Eiji had kept to his word. The moment he had left Shiraishi's presence the redhead had retreated to the stables, giving feed to both of the horses, water as well. When Shiraishi had spotted him, the acrobat had busied himself with Evelyn, rubbing her coat with a sheen brush, massaging her tired muscles. "Nya?" he frowned, turning around to face Shiraishi. That was the fastest doctors visit he had ever seen.
"Is it that bad? Does he need medicine? I knew I should have done something about it earlier..."
“No. He’s fine. Except he is no lord”, Shiraishi said with a really panicked voice. Though he seemed quite calm, which was quite a miracle. “He is a traitor of this Kingdom. Crown Prince Ryoga”, he continued and showed that knife, that has the Royal family crest.
The dagger in Shiraishi's outheld hand didn't belong to him. Eiji knew it to be his Lord Imriel's, having spied it more than once in the study. He had wondered about the crest prior to this - but had never expected the lunacy that Kuranosuke was now spouting. "What? No, his name is Imriel-nya. And give me that, that's my Master's..."
“He is the prince. Even that conversation with that knight, about Jackal, makes now sense. That’s why I…cannot give this to you”, Shiraishi said and put the knife to his pocket. “It’s an important proof to the King that his son is alive. Even if it will hurt the family…” Sounds were heard from outside, but not yet near the stables. “Eiji, I’m asking you one more time, please… come with me.”
This was all a weird, over-exaggerated mix-up. It had to be. Imriel was Imriel, the same caring man that he had always been. "I don't believe you, Kuranosuke." The tone made it so that the subject was no longer up for debate. "And I'm not going with you. Imriel is my Lord... everything I have - my very life - I owe to that man. I will not betray him." He frowned, wondering if he should get the knife back... but ultimately decided against it. It was a lie anyway - and he could always buy Imriel a new knife. This way maybe they could still be friends.
"I won't stop you from leaving-nyo. But I'm not going with you."
Sadness filled Shiraishi’s eyes. “I see”, he said with a defeated voice. Then he walked to the stall where Evelyn was. “I’m sorry, Eiji. And thank you, for taking care of Evelyn. I hope that you will be fine, even if you see the truth”, he said and mounted the horse. She didn’t have her saddle on, but there was no time to put it on her. After he was ready enough, he left the stables with Evelyn, running as fast as she could.