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【千 ✗ 花】dreams of autumn
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「THE EMPEROR AND THE WHITE TIGER」
a story of human greed and the wrath of a god
The gods have walked the lands and the paths of the mortals for centuries in Yamato, spreading their blessings and gathering their followers. Shrines are almost everywhere across the lands, dedicated to many different gods and goddesses, each with their own domain. Amaterasu, the Sun Goddess, at the highest peak of them all, shows her shining face and lets the world grow under the warmth of her light. Susanoo, the god of the cataclysmic winds that blow across north, east, west and south, a god that can be as malevolent as he is helpful, is ever at odds with his sister. And lastly is the Moon, Tsukuyomi, the lover of the Sun. Mysterious and quiet with his gaze overlooking the seas, the third god forms the triad of siblings that hold up the very heavens and the seas themselves.
But what about the vastness of the sea of stars just peeking beyond the clouds in the dark of night? Who holds up the sky and and the four corners that make it up?
Existing first as among the stars, the Four Symbols came to being to protect and hold up the very corners of the earth itself, and the seasons that make up the balance of the world. Azumeseiryuu, the blue dragon that wields the element of water, the most benevolent and kindly of them all, can be seen weaving in and out of the clouds in the sky. He resides in the east of the realms. Minamisuzaku, the phoenix with an eternal fire, is the most tempestuous of the gods. His presence can be felt in the simmering heat of the summers that scorch the lands dry, especially so in the place he rules, the South. Nishibyakko, king of the beasts and taking the form of a beautiful yet fearsome white tiger, is the most judicious and yet practical among his brothers, the patron of the blacksmiths with his powers over metal. And the coldest of his brothers is Kitagenbu, the black tortoise that rarely ever speaks. His season is winter and his element is wood.
The story we are about to hear is about the White Tiger, the god of autumn and metal. Many were his shrines and plenty were his worshippers, for he was a benevolent god in the early days. His patience was almost unmatched, hours and days of toiling to forge the perfect blades and armor lending to his firm and enduring personality.
Worship and belief in him gave way to plentiful wealth in the form of precious ore and metal found in the deep earth, and protection was found in his land. His only law and rule for the mortals who believed in him was this:
Do not touch my lands without my allowing it…
And for decades to centuries, his words were heeded and everyone was blessed with a god they could rely on…
After so long of heeding their calls and wishes, there came a time when the autumn god wished to sleep and rest. And so he rested for a century and more.
But unrest was growing in the Emperor's court. The bloodline of this man considered almost a god was growing year by year, decade after decade. Heirs would come and pass through both assassination and war, staining the royal courts with blood. Human greed, as it was, could not rest for long even in their veins. Royal treasuries were drained to the point of almost being empty because of the toll the wars took on people, revolutions and new warlords challenging each other causing the world to clamber for survival.
Rumors of the White Tiger's Treasure soon came to the Emperor's ears. It was a place that could hold treasure that could make a man's wildest dreams come true, so great was this supposed treasure that was hidden in the god's land. And the current Emperor, a man who fashioned himself a god among humans, set his eyes on it and claimed it as his. Ignoring the rule set by the White Tiger, ignoring the possible wrath he could incur for disrespecting a god of his caliber. Seijin thought himself equal to the gods who held up the skies.
He sent armies and armies of men at his beck and call to demand the treasure be yielded to him by the tiger. Passing the borders of Nishibyakko's land without respect or reverence these soldier's lives would be cut short in the pridefulness of the emperor, and the offended anger of the god. For every army he would wipe out with a sweep of his paw and an angry roar the emperor grew more and more desperate, incensed at the defiance of his will.
Nishibyakko's followers would suffer in the days that followed. Temples burned to the ground, families fleeing for their lives from the anger and malice that would leave them dead with knives in their backs. Seijin sought to hurt the god as much as possible, and turned the people of the land against him. Even his followers would defect from faith in him for the offers of money and wealth, of safety and life.
The biggest bounty for the Tiger's head was soon declared. Half the kingdom would belong to the man who would bring the Emperor his head…
And not just humans, but gods and youkai would answer the call.
Unable to find respite almost anywhere in the land, Nishibyakkko would be forced to flee or see the destruction of the temples he loved, the followers he once talked to. God hunters would trail his every movement with the hopes to finally kill him, uncaring of who else they cut down.
The god would erect a lot of graves in those days.
One day, all the pain and the suffering, the hatred and the greed he had seen had become too much for him. He lost his trust in the human race for all the vile acts they did to the humans under his protection, the places they had razed. Women and children taken and broken. So many lives lost. So many wounds taken.
It was uncertain when exactly the White Tiger became the ruthless god of Rot and Rust, but some would say that it was long coming. Nishibyakko's anger wilted the crops black, rendering the fields unable to yield any nourishing crop. He would savagely attack humans that dared approach and disturb him, tearing them to shreds with his great sharp teeth. Some said he even ate the humans, gaining a taste for mortal flesh. He spat on the temples of other gods he disdained, feuded with even his friends and lost friendships to his hatred. His power was enough to bring the longest famine ever to the lands, surpassing Seijin's generation for decades and a century to come...
But what about the vastness of the sea of stars just peeking beyond the clouds in the dark of night? Who holds up the sky and and the four corners that make it up?
Existing first as among the stars, the Four Symbols came to being to protect and hold up the very corners of the earth itself, and the seasons that make up the balance of the world. Azumeseiryuu, the blue dragon that wields the element of water, the most benevolent and kindly of them all, can be seen weaving in and out of the clouds in the sky. He resides in the east of the realms. Minamisuzaku, the phoenix with an eternal fire, is the most tempestuous of the gods. His presence can be felt in the simmering heat of the summers that scorch the lands dry, especially so in the place he rules, the South. Nishibyakko, king of the beasts and taking the form of a beautiful yet fearsome white tiger, is the most judicious and yet practical among his brothers, the patron of the blacksmiths with his powers over metal. And the coldest of his brothers is Kitagenbu, the black tortoise that rarely ever speaks. His season is winter and his element is wood.
The story we are about to hear is about the White Tiger, the god of autumn and metal. Many were his shrines and plenty were his worshippers, for he was a benevolent god in the early days. His patience was almost unmatched, hours and days of toiling to forge the perfect blades and armor lending to his firm and enduring personality.
Worship and belief in him gave way to plentiful wealth in the form of precious ore and metal found in the deep earth, and protection was found in his land. His only law and rule for the mortals who believed in him was this:
Do not touch my lands without my allowing it…
And for decades to centuries, his words were heeded and everyone was blessed with a god they could rely on…
After so long of heeding their calls and wishes, there came a time when the autumn god wished to sleep and rest. And so he rested for a century and more.
But unrest was growing in the Emperor's court. The bloodline of this man considered almost a god was growing year by year, decade after decade. Heirs would come and pass through both assassination and war, staining the royal courts with blood. Human greed, as it was, could not rest for long even in their veins. Royal treasuries were drained to the point of almost being empty because of the toll the wars took on people, revolutions and new warlords challenging each other causing the world to clamber for survival.
Rumors of the White Tiger's Treasure soon came to the Emperor's ears. It was a place that could hold treasure that could make a man's wildest dreams come true, so great was this supposed treasure that was hidden in the god's land. And the current Emperor, a man who fashioned himself a god among humans, set his eyes on it and claimed it as his. Ignoring the rule set by the White Tiger, ignoring the possible wrath he could incur for disrespecting a god of his caliber. Seijin thought himself equal to the gods who held up the skies.
He sent armies and armies of men at his beck and call to demand the treasure be yielded to him by the tiger. Passing the borders of Nishibyakko's land without respect or reverence these soldier's lives would be cut short in the pridefulness of the emperor, and the offended anger of the god. For every army he would wipe out with a sweep of his paw and an angry roar the emperor grew more and more desperate, incensed at the defiance of his will.
Nishibyakko's followers would suffer in the days that followed. Temples burned to the ground, families fleeing for their lives from the anger and malice that would leave them dead with knives in their backs. Seijin sought to hurt the god as much as possible, and turned the people of the land against him. Even his followers would defect from faith in him for the offers of money and wealth, of safety and life.
The biggest bounty for the Tiger's head was soon declared. Half the kingdom would belong to the man who would bring the Emperor his head…
And not just humans, but gods and youkai would answer the call.
Unable to find respite almost anywhere in the land, Nishibyakkko would be forced to flee or see the destruction of the temples he loved, the followers he once talked to. God hunters would trail his every movement with the hopes to finally kill him, uncaring of who else they cut down.
The god would erect a lot of graves in those days.
One day, all the pain and the suffering, the hatred and the greed he had seen had become too much for him. He lost his trust in the human race for all the vile acts they did to the humans under his protection, the places they had razed. Women and children taken and broken. So many lives lost. So many wounds taken.
It was uncertain when exactly the White Tiger became the ruthless god of Rot and Rust, but some would say that it was long coming. Nishibyakko's anger wilted the crops black, rendering the fields unable to yield any nourishing crop. He would savagely attack humans that dared approach and disturb him, tearing them to shreds with his great sharp teeth. Some said he even ate the humans, gaining a taste for mortal flesh. He spat on the temples of other gods he disdained, feuded with even his friends and lost friendships to his hatred. His power was enough to bring the longest famine ever to the lands, surpassing Seijin's generation for decades and a century to come...
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THE FOUR SYMBOLS
Azumeseiryuu of the East
The benevolent and gentle god of spring, he takes charge of the element of water, and acts as the peacekeeper to his brothers. Watcher of the oceans and lakes of the mortal realm, Azumeseiryuu is a just god who does not discriminate. Every year he flies over the skies and dances across the seas, bringing new life after a harsh winter. He's somewhat oblivious and dense, but is very interested in learning about the culture of humans. His kind exterior makes him the most friendly of the gods, and he'd rather spend time with Kitagenbu drinking than bicker with the others. As the most sympathetic and understanding of others, he is the god that most pities Nishibyakko. Although he cannot help him, he silently protects his brother from getting into life-threatening danger.
The benevolent and gentle god of spring, he takes charge of the element of water, and acts as the peacekeeper to his brothers. Watcher of the oceans and lakes of the mortal realm, Azumeseiryuu is a just god who does not discriminate. Every year he flies over the skies and dances across the seas, bringing new life after a harsh winter. He's somewhat oblivious and dense, but is very interested in learning about the culture of humans. His kind exterior makes him the most friendly of the gods, and he'd rather spend time with Kitagenbu drinking than bicker with the others. As the most sympathetic and understanding of others, he is the god that most pities Nishibyakko. Although he cannot help him, he silently protects his brother from getting into life-threatening danger.
Minamisuzaku of the South
The brash and arrogant god of summer. An elegant wielder of burning fires, he keeps watch of the sky with his eternal fire. Every year he washes the land with hot winds and scorching sunlight simply by flapping his mighty wings. A symbol of the royal palaces, he is known for his intense passion and emotions - and a balance between hate and love. Of course, he'd never love his rival Nishibyakko. Arguing over the pettiest things, their fights have shook the heavens, angering many gods around them. However, he has a sense of duty, and never pushes too far to the point of upsetting the balance of the universe. This does not stop him from sneering at the tiger god, jeering at his suffering and his loss as if it were a joke to him. He still takes offence when Nishibyakko snaps back, much to the disappointment of Azumeseiryuu.
The brash and arrogant god of summer. An elegant wielder of burning fires, he keeps watch of the sky with his eternal fire. Every year he washes the land with hot winds and scorching sunlight simply by flapping his mighty wings. A symbol of the royal palaces, he is known for his intense passion and emotions - and a balance between hate and love. Of course, he'd never love his rival Nishibyakko. Arguing over the pettiest things, their fights have shook the heavens, angering many gods around them. However, he has a sense of duty, and never pushes too far to the point of upsetting the balance of the universe. This does not stop him from sneering at the tiger god, jeering at his suffering and his loss as if it were a joke to him. He still takes offence when Nishibyakko snaps back, much to the disappointment of Azumeseiryuu.
Nishibyakko of the West
The once judicious god of autumn and the patron god of forges in Yamato, Nishibyakko was the deity that blessed the weapons created by man, giving them fortune and sturdiness. As such, he was the master of metal, wielding a liquid form he could bend to his will. Every year he ran through the land, leaving behind a golden trail that brought along the harvest season. Although he was a benevolent god who listened to the woes of his followers, he never got along with his rival, Minamisuzaku. Autumn and summer battled fiercely to see which season would last the longest, and the autumn god was frequently frustrated with dealing with the phoenix. Like Azumeseiryuu, he did not mind the company of humans before his transformation. He is most intrigued by Kitagenbu, but is wary of the turtle god, sensing the mysterious aura that accompanied him.
The once judicious god of autumn and the patron god of forges in Yamato, Nishibyakko was the deity that blessed the weapons created by man, giving them fortune and sturdiness. As such, he was the master of metal, wielding a liquid form he could bend to his will. Every year he ran through the land, leaving behind a golden trail that brought along the harvest season. Although he was a benevolent god who listened to the woes of his followers, he never got along with his rival, Minamisuzaku. Autumn and summer battled fiercely to see which season would last the longest, and the autumn god was frequently frustrated with dealing with the phoenix. Like Azumeseiryuu, he did not mind the company of humans before his transformation. He is most intrigued by Kitagenbu, but is wary of the turtle god, sensing the mysterious aura that accompanied him.
Kitagenbu of the North
The stoic god of winter. He is as cold and mysterious as the season he brings. Every year he emerges from his shell, sending chilling winds cover the earth in heavy snow. With the element of wood at his command, his mastery of controlling nature is his forte. Gnarled, mangled trees shield him from the prying eyes of others. A symbol of death but also the preparation for new beginnings, his personality reflects this in his somber and loner attitude. He is a nonchalant individual who rarely speaks, much less interact with his brothers outside what is necessary. Kitagenbu has no interest in humans, and often keeps to himself. Nevertheless, he seems to enjoy the company of the spring god, and pays no heed to the bickering of the phoenix and the tiger.
The stoic god of winter. He is as cold and mysterious as the season he brings. Every year he emerges from his shell, sending chilling winds cover the earth in heavy snow. With the element of wood at his command, his mastery of controlling nature is his forte. Gnarled, mangled trees shield him from the prying eyes of others. A symbol of death but also the preparation for new beginnings, his personality reflects this in his somber and loner attitude. He is a nonchalant individual who rarely speaks, much less interact with his brothers outside what is necessary. Kitagenbu has no interest in humans, and often keeps to himself. Nevertheless, he seems to enjoy the company of the spring god, and pays no heed to the bickering of the phoenix and the tiger.
THE GODS OF YAMATO
Wakahirume of the Dawn
Once upon a time, Amaterasu did not have to cross the skies to bring the light of the sun alone. She had a sister with an uncanny likeness in both beauty and grace, but where the Sun's light shone all-consuming, Wakahirume's glow was of a soft and gentle kind. The rays of dawn that kissed the tops of the mountains and the clouds, slowly encompassing the lands and embracing the possibilities of a new day, Wakahirume was as the dawn. Shy and quiet with a beauty often overshadowed by the brightness of her sister. The dawn goddess also patronized the art of weaving, of turning all kinds of materials into fabrics and patterns worthy of the gods. She blessed the households who worshipped her name with the beauty of her creations... Until one day, her brother flew into a rage that ended in a deadly accident.... And breaking the White Tiger's heart.
Once upon a time, Amaterasu did not have to cross the skies to bring the light of the sun alone. She had a sister with an uncanny likeness in both beauty and grace, but where the Sun's light shone all-consuming, Wakahirume's glow was of a soft and gentle kind. The rays of dawn that kissed the tops of the mountains and the clouds, slowly encompassing the lands and embracing the possibilities of a new day, Wakahirume was as the dawn. Shy and quiet with a beauty often overshadowed by the brightness of her sister. The dawn goddess also patronized the art of weaving, of turning all kinds of materials into fabrics and patterns worthy of the gods. She blessed the households who worshipped her name with the beauty of her creations... Until one day, her brother flew into a rage that ended in a deadly accident.... And breaking the White Tiger's heart.
Inari of the Foxes
Considered a great god, Inari is one of the more infamous and well-worshiped kami across the land. Her abilities which lay in ensuring prosperous harvests, fertility, and sake made her popular among the mortals, but her infamy among the gods lies in her trickster nature and her ability to manipulate what the naked eye could see. In the form of one of the women of unearthly beauty and otherworldly charm, her playful ways and easygoing nature has led to many friendships and trysts with gods and humans alike. Her messengers, the foxes, have inherited the goddess's wily and cunning nature. Underneath that secretive smile, the goddess is more discerning and distrustful than she looks - starting with her disappointment in the White Tiger's fall into darkness. She has been forbidden from actively interfering in his feuds, yet her eyes more often than not are turned in his direction, no matter how far, for she once loved him deeply.
Considered a great god, Inari is one of the more infamous and well-worshiped kami across the land. Her abilities which lay in ensuring prosperous harvests, fertility, and sake made her popular among the mortals, but her infamy among the gods lies in her trickster nature and her ability to manipulate what the naked eye could see. In the form of one of the women of unearthly beauty and otherworldly charm, her playful ways and easygoing nature has led to many friendships and trysts with gods and humans alike. Her messengers, the foxes, have inherited the goddess's wily and cunning nature. Underneath that secretive smile, the goddess is more discerning and distrustful than she looks - starting with her disappointment in the White Tiger's fall into darkness. She has been forbidden from actively interfering in his feuds, yet her eyes more often than not are turned in his direction, no matter how far, for she once loved him deeply.
Amaterasu of the Sun
As the queen of the gods of Yamato, the Sun's all-consuming radiance looks down on the lands day by day. Amaterasu is the central deity among all deities there are now in the country, with the sun being necessary for life though also bringing suffering. The world cannot live and rise to meet the day without her, and for that even the gods mostly respect her. Her great power and radiance is matched equally by her wisdom, yet she prefers not to interfere in worldly matters, residing in the heavens and watching from afar. She has an infamous feud-ridden bond with her brother Susanoo, and has married Tsukuyomi, both her brother and lover as the moon. Regarding the Tiger's feud with the mortals, the sun goddess has yet to show any other reaction other than mild disappointment. She sees the Four Symbols as necessary pillars to the world, yet considers the fighting among them to be petty childish spats that yet prove destructive...
As the queen of the gods of Yamato, the Sun's all-consuming radiance looks down on the lands day by day. Amaterasu is the central deity among all deities there are now in the country, with the sun being necessary for life though also bringing suffering. The world cannot live and rise to meet the day without her, and for that even the gods mostly respect her. Her great power and radiance is matched equally by her wisdom, yet she prefers not to interfere in worldly matters, residing in the heavens and watching from afar. She has an infamous feud-ridden bond with her brother Susanoo, and has married Tsukuyomi, both her brother and lover as the moon. Regarding the Tiger's feud with the mortals, the sun goddess has yet to show any other reaction other than mild disappointment. She sees the Four Symbols as necessary pillars to the world, yet considers the fighting among them to be petty childish spats that yet prove destructive...
Tsukuyomi of the Moon
The calm and yet enigmatic counterpart to the bright sun, Tsukuyomi's gentle yet lingering radiance lights the way for mortals in the night when his wife has taken her leave. As a god, he is far milder yet more unnerving in his unpredictability compared to his two siblings. Nothing much is known about the Moon compared to even the Sun or their brother, only that he also has the same quiet wisdom as his sister. His powers are the strangest and most mysterious of them, having a weird influence over the spirits and youkai, and the minds of mortals which the eerie light of the moon is able to affect in many different ways. He is shown to have some sway over his brother due to his powers, but to what extent, no one knows.
The calm and yet enigmatic counterpart to the bright sun, Tsukuyomi's gentle yet lingering radiance lights the way for mortals in the night when his wife has taken her leave. As a god, he is far milder yet more unnerving in his unpredictability compared to his two siblings. Nothing much is known about the Moon compared to even the Sun or their brother, only that he also has the same quiet wisdom as his sister. His powers are the strangest and most mysterious of them, having a weird influence over the spirits and youkai, and the minds of mortals which the eerie light of the moon is able to affect in many different ways. He is shown to have some sway over his brother due to his powers, but to what extent, no one knows.
Susanoo of the Storms
The most rebellious and spiteful of the three noble children of Izanami and Izanagi, Susanoo's wrath can often be discerned through the biting winds and heavy rains that his anger could bring. He has often feuded with his sister Amaterasu, one incident even leading to the disappearance of her radiance from the world for a period of time, and he has also tried to trick her. One of his most repulsive acts is the murder of one goddess called Uke Mochi, who offered him food she vomited to his disgust. However, a deeper rift lies among the siblings - for they were once four, yet now they are three. Whether or not he shows repentance for his accidental killing of Wakahirume, he has yet to say or do anything about the White Tiger's imposed famine on the land. Or perhaps he just doesn't care for the plight of the humans.
The most rebellious and spiteful of the three noble children of Izanami and Izanagi, Susanoo's wrath can often be discerned through the biting winds and heavy rains that his anger could bring. He has often feuded with his sister Amaterasu, one incident even leading to the disappearance of her radiance from the world for a period of time, and he has also tried to trick her. One of his most repulsive acts is the murder of one goddess called Uke Mochi, who offered him food she vomited to his disgust. However, a deeper rift lies among the siblings - for they were once four, yet now they are three. Whether or not he shows repentance for his accidental killing of Wakahirume, he has yet to say or do anything about the White Tiger's imposed famine on the land. Or perhaps he just doesn't care for the plight of the humans.
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「the great western white tiger god of autumn and metal. 」
the god of the west
" you know, you should thank me.
after all, living hurts more than dying. "
Nishibyakko was once judicious god of autumn and the patron god of forges in Yamato. However, due to a certain incident he roams away from the heavens alone, toying with those out for his head. Known as the god of rot and rust, he brings death with the season of autumn - with failed harvests and famine - in his wake.
after all, living hurts more than dying. "
Nishibyakko was once judicious god of autumn and the patron god of forges in Yamato. However, due to a certain incident he roams away from the heavens alone, toying with those out for his head. Known as the god of rot and rust, he brings death with the season of autumn - with failed harvests and famine - in his wake.
names
♢ nishibyakko okami
西白虎大神 "west white tiger great god"
♦ kinzoku-aki-no-koshin
金属秋の虎神 "tiger god of metal autumns"
♢ fuhai-no-kami
腐敗の神 "the god of rot and rust"
西白虎大神 "west white tiger great god"
♦ kinzoku-aki-no-koshin
金属秋の虎神 "tiger god of metal autumns"
♢ fuhai-no-kami
腐敗の神 "the god of rot and rust"
personality
arrogant & brutal
Nishibyakko is a prideful god who sees himself as the best of the best, often flaunting his position as one of the Four Symbols and grinning at the fact that he is a god that other immortals like himself and little mortals fear. His huge ego is incredibly inflated, seeing himself as a perfect god without any flaws. That said, he is not used to being told what to do and is prone to being confused when he does not get the reaction he expected. Nishibyakko especially loves hearing tales of his cruel achievement, hearing farmers speak of the famine and when it would possibly end. Exaggeration is music to his ears, he knows it is true and he relishes in it. In his quest to prove himself as better than all, he is willing to do anything to show the world of his power. Destroying the palaces, stealing the women to gobble them alive, killing all the livestock and leaving their rotting carcasses behind so that not even humans can benefit from their deaths. He loves the taste of blood on his lips and the sound of their screams as opposed to the long-gone voices of their mantras and chants and the sound of the bell ringing in his honor. It pains him to see the remnants of a shrine that was once his, crushed and burnt beyond recognition.
misunderstood & devoted
history
One of the Four Symbols of Japan, Nishibyakko was a powerful and highly worshiped member of the group. As the White Tiger of the West, he is the bringer of the autumn season and the guardians of forges, overseeing the construction of metal work, as he is the master of the element himself. He was a benevolent and patient god, even calmer and stoical than the finest of blacksmiths in their craft. Humans were safe on his lands, those who worshiped him were blessed with fine riches from deep within the earth, rare ores and minerals gathered and fashioned into the finest of wares. Nishibyakko held his head high, blessing those who showed him respect. He was a laidback god with only one law under his name - that his domain, his land be untouched. It was a huge and beautiful plain with rich soil, abundant with jewels and ore. It was his world, and so Nishibyakko slept in his own domain, resting after so many centuries of heeding human calls.
When he woke at last, the Emperors' line was lengthening year by year. Assassinations were common, death rates were high. Heirs rose again and again and the god watched with his eyes. He rewarded his worshiper as usual and chased away thieves out for his treasure. The White Tiger's Treasure, they called it, his land still plentiful with things that could make a man rich. The Emperor, a foolish man named Seijin, threatened the god for what he owned. When the god refused, Emperor Seijin sent his army, hoards of armored soldiers gathering with their spears aimed at the god, demanding for the White Tiger's Treasure, all under the man who called himself second to the great gods. Angered, Nishibyakko lashed out, decimating the army with a single sweep of his paw. The Emperor sent more and more men, their fleeting lives ending short. Desperate, Emperor Seijin placed a bounty on his head, for the head of Nishibyakko, half the empire would belong to them. God Hunters and even minor gods stood up against him, and somewhere the anger and the frustration was too much for the once-patient god.
One day, he simply became the God of Rot. The autumn season was a symbol of maturity and of time passing. But now, the world around the empire wilted without reason. Plants died, crops perished, Nishibyakko brought an age of starvation and famine. Any mortals - or immortals - who tried to stand up against him with their tiny metal sticks, they rusted and crumbled before they could even touch his skin. Now bearing the mark of Emperor's target, Nishibyakko fled. With his bountiful land cursed, the Emperor and his descendants had no use for it anymore. It was the Tiger's head or nothing, and so they chased and so he ran. But what fool could ever hope to outrun a tiger?
When he woke at last, the Emperors' line was lengthening year by year. Assassinations were common, death rates were high. Heirs rose again and again and the god watched with his eyes. He rewarded his worshiper as usual and chased away thieves out for his treasure. The White Tiger's Treasure, they called it, his land still plentiful with things that could make a man rich. The Emperor, a foolish man named Seijin, threatened the god for what he owned. When the god refused, Emperor Seijin sent his army, hoards of armored soldiers gathering with their spears aimed at the god, demanding for the White Tiger's Treasure, all under the man who called himself second to the great gods. Angered, Nishibyakko lashed out, decimating the army with a single sweep of his paw. The Emperor sent more and more men, their fleeting lives ending short. Desperate, Emperor Seijin placed a bounty on his head, for the head of Nishibyakko, half the empire would belong to them. God Hunters and even minor gods stood up against him, and somewhere the anger and the frustration was too much for the once-patient god.
One day, he simply became the God of Rot. The autumn season was a symbol of maturity and of time passing. But now, the world around the empire wilted without reason. Plants died, crops perished, Nishibyakko brought an age of starvation and famine. Any mortals - or immortals - who tried to stand up against him with their tiny metal sticks, they rusted and crumbled before they could even touch his skin. Now bearing the mark of Emperor's target, Nishibyakko fled. With his bountiful land cursed, the Emperor and his descendants had no use for it anymore. It was the Tiger's head or nothing, and so they chased and so he ran. But what fool could ever hope to outrun a tiger?
「a halfblooded miko bound to her temple. the sheath that hides a sacred sword. 」
the last miko of the autumn
" no one is going to touch the lands surrounding this shrine so long as this half-blood miko lives, you hear me? "
The stubborn and determined priestess who is the last of her kin left tending to the once grand Ochibagami Shrine, Kiyoko plans to stay in her family's land until she breathes her last and joins the rest of them. Her love for them and their home keeps her vigilant in caring for the temple and keeping her worship of their fallen god. Her body is also home to many secrets, one among them being a powerful sacred sword blessed by a god...
The stubborn and determined priestess who is the last of her kin left tending to the once grand Ochibagami Shrine, Kiyoko plans to stay in her family's land until she breathes her last and joins the rest of them. Her love for them and their home keeps her vigilant in caring for the temple and keeping her worship of their fallen god. Her body is also home to many secrets, one among them being a powerful sacred sword blessed by a god...
names
♢ hayashi kiyoko
林清子 "pure forest child"
♦ ochiba jinja no miko
落ち葉神社の巫女 "priestess of the fallen leaves shrine"
♢ rakuyō no majo
落葉の魔女 "witch of fallen leaves"
林清子 "pure forest child"
♦ ochiba jinja no miko
落ち葉神社の巫女 "priestess of the fallen leaves shrine"
♢ rakuyō no majo
落葉の魔女 "witch of fallen leaves"
personality
cheerful & hardworking
Even, or perhaps even in spite of her lonely life and status in the village, Kiyoko for all intents and purposes seems rather cheerful in her every day life. With only her cat Yuuta as a companion, the young shrine maiden goes about her day to day tasks and her part-time job in the village with a brisk, unrelenting pace. Taking her job as the sole shrine maiden and protector of her shrine with the utmost seriousness, Kiyoko takes it upon herself to do almost all of the upkeep of the shrine, only conceding to help from the few villagers who still respect her and the shrine. She hardly lets the insults and the attacks thrown at her faze her, even if the attacks turn from the verbal to the physical - so long as the honor of her shrine and the ancestral lands of the Hayashi family, one of the last strongholds to the fallen god, Nishibyakko Okami. The fertile lands and forests falling under the boundaries of her family, and of the angered god, are the things she fights for, even if she herself has not seen anything of the god she is to serve and worship.
secretive & troubled
She has lived a hard life, growing up alone as the only one to maintain the shrine after her adoptive parents died. In the face of the villagers' hate, a part of Kiyoko's former openly laidback and honest personality died as she grew a harder bearing. Even as cheerful as she allows herself to be, it is clear that she doesn't like divulging any of her secrets of problems, often turning closed-off and defensive in the face of any questioning or interrogation. She would sooner die than give up the secrets she holds close to her heart, especially regarding her past and her parents' biological daughter. Kiyoko has a troubled outlook that she hardly ever talks about, upon having learned that her adoptive parents once had the perfect shrine maiden for a daughter, before this daughter died. Seeing herself as a replacement, this hurt the young girl's feelings though she never outwardly showed it, only driven further to her determination to prove herself as a worthy protector and priestess. This, in turn, causes further conflict with others and within herself... And further worsens a slow-growing corruption which was left on her in the aftermath of her initiation ritual, a challenge she completed when she was twelve that left a mark on her due to a malicious spirit.
hot-tempered & obstinate
Kiyoko may not look like it, but she has a sharp temper only hidden by her desire not to cause any trouble for her shrine. She's cheerful, but she's not a pushover, and it shows when villagers overstep the boundaries. Having gotten involved in some violent scuffles with the villagers, the shrine maiden isn't afraid to come to blows if they try to trespass into the shrine and its surrounding land, taking up arms against groups of angry men and women if she has to. As it is, the people of the village are still afraid of her and haven't tested her that far yet... But within the village itself Kiyoko herself has become fair game, a fact she is well aware of. Despite this, she's still a stubborn presence that the village can never rid itself of, particularly when it comes to her coming to the village to restock her supplies or trade with the few people and families willing to trade with her. Once her mind is set on something, it is hard to redirect or divert the young priestess from her intentions, even if threatened or attacked. This only prompts her to react heatedly or violently in response, a thing that her adoptive parents once noted when they were still alive. She tries to hide her temper, or contain herself, but when push comes to shove, she isn't afraid to shove back with thrice the force or more. Her obstinacy is second to none, making her almost like an immovable rock, and it shows in how she stands by the shrine and would fight for it to the death due to her devotion to her deceased parents.
history
For the past seven years, Kiyoko has been the sole inhabitant and keeper of the old Ochibagami Shrine. The Ochibagami Shrine was a very old shrine dedicated to the kami of the forests and mountains, and the Hayashi family were its long line of shrine warriors and maidens. Running within their blood was the ability to summon the power to fight, and the power to call the spirits and nature to protect what is theirs. Until tragedy struck and she lost her adoptive parents, the shrine warrior and his miko wife. At the age of ten, Kiyoko had to learn to live alone and to continue on practicing her parents' old ways.
But not everything is easy when one is a half-blood. Born as a half-blood Hayashi, the other relatives rejected her when her mother died, and Kiyoko had to fend for herself when she was a small child. Only that day when the shrine warrior Kagami and the priestess Kanon took her hand and led her out of the dark into the light did she become recognized as a child of the family. And even then, this couple, her new parents, had once lost a child to tragedy.
Kiyoko loved her parents still, and sought to honor them after the mysterious circumstances of their deaths. Even if her training as either a warrior or a priestess still hadn't gone very far, the forms her father taught her and the rituals and mantras her mother taught her still not complete, she took up the role of both protector and shrine maiden. Further driving her was her desire to prove herself just as worthy of the shrine as the first daughter, and it became her motive for living to complete the initiation ritual that the girl before her took, even if that led to the latter's demise. It was a dangerous ritual, a ceremony that required the shrine maiden to venture to a deep and cavernous cave where beasts that only a capable Hayashi could hope to face, before finally retrieving part of a precious metal that was supposedly blessed by Nishibyakko Okami to the people who followed him. Upon undertaking this ritual, did Kiyoko discover what had killed the first daughter - a malicious spirit who killed the girl from inside out. And he was out to also take her life. But something - perhaps it was the spirit of the first daughter - intervened and saved the miko's life that day, though it left a lasting scar in her heart and a mark on her that throbbed with hate and malice. Kiyoko had been cursed.
The miko's eyes had turned from a normal clear brown to a bloody red that day, and she quickly noticed a change in herself. A pain that started in her mark that grew and grew on her body if she ever felt angry and bitter, a moment of weakness that she quickly learned she could never allow herself to have after the encounter, unless she wanted to be overtaken by the curse and lose herself. The girl was terrified, but with no one to turn to and the unkind gazes of the villagers upon her, she had to learn how to help herself. She was bitter, but who was there to help her?
The villagers had also noticed her change, or at least started feeling uneasy around the girl as she made her appearances in the village. Kiyoko had become more violent and defensive, and even almost threatening, her red eyes unsettling for all to see. Rumors quickly grew that the only shrine maiden left to the village had grown mad with the call of demons, and had turned into a witch. She remained silent in the face of these claims, only continuing her work and threatening or chasing off anyone who tried to trespass or break into the shrine. She even encouraged some rumors about her as a witch who caused ailments and calamities on a whim, if only to cause the village to fear even approaching. Better to be feared and avoided than to have Ochibagami Jinja and what her family left her threatened by the greed of the people. Even if her powers hadn't yet decided what they wanted to be - shrine warrior or shrine maiden? Even if she was vulnerable and weak to the corruption eating away at her - she had been left with a legacy she would die to protect. She owed that much to the people who gave her a home.
But not everything is easy when one is a half-blood. Born as a half-blood Hayashi, the other relatives rejected her when her mother died, and Kiyoko had to fend for herself when she was a small child. Only that day when the shrine warrior Kagami and the priestess Kanon took her hand and led her out of the dark into the light did she become recognized as a child of the family. And even then, this couple, her new parents, had once lost a child to tragedy.
Kiyoko loved her parents still, and sought to honor them after the mysterious circumstances of their deaths. Even if her training as either a warrior or a priestess still hadn't gone very far, the forms her father taught her and the rituals and mantras her mother taught her still not complete, she took up the role of both protector and shrine maiden. Further driving her was her desire to prove herself just as worthy of the shrine as the first daughter, and it became her motive for living to complete the initiation ritual that the girl before her took, even if that led to the latter's demise. It was a dangerous ritual, a ceremony that required the shrine maiden to venture to a deep and cavernous cave where beasts that only a capable Hayashi could hope to face, before finally retrieving part of a precious metal that was supposedly blessed by Nishibyakko Okami to the people who followed him. Upon undertaking this ritual, did Kiyoko discover what had killed the first daughter - a malicious spirit who killed the girl from inside out. And he was out to also take her life. But something - perhaps it was the spirit of the first daughter - intervened and saved the miko's life that day, though it left a lasting scar in her heart and a mark on her that throbbed with hate and malice. Kiyoko had been cursed.
The miko's eyes had turned from a normal clear brown to a bloody red that day, and she quickly noticed a change in herself. A pain that started in her mark that grew and grew on her body if she ever felt angry and bitter, a moment of weakness that she quickly learned she could never allow herself to have after the encounter, unless she wanted to be overtaken by the curse and lose herself. The girl was terrified, but with no one to turn to and the unkind gazes of the villagers upon her, she had to learn how to help herself. She was bitter, but who was there to help her?
The villagers had also noticed her change, or at least started feeling uneasy around the girl as she made her appearances in the village. Kiyoko had become more violent and defensive, and even almost threatening, her red eyes unsettling for all to see. Rumors quickly grew that the only shrine maiden left to the village had grown mad with the call of demons, and had turned into a witch. She remained silent in the face of these claims, only continuing her work and threatening or chasing off anyone who tried to trespass or break into the shrine. She even encouraged some rumors about her as a witch who caused ailments and calamities on a whim, if only to cause the village to fear even approaching. Better to be feared and avoided than to have Ochibagami Jinja and what her family left her threatened by the greed of the people. Even if her powers hadn't yet decided what they wanted to be - shrine warrior or shrine maiden? Even if she was vulnerable and weak to the corruption eating away at her - she had been left with a legacy she would die to protect. She owed that much to the people who gave her a home.
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「the goddess of the sunrise, weaver of the skies. 」
the sister of the sun
"let your mind wander,
and weave your worries away."
Wakahirume was a great goddess of the sun and sunrise, younger sister to the mother of the gods, Amaterasu. Though she was never acknowledged as much as her sister, she was content with life. Famous for her weaving, she used sunlight itself to create magnificent cloth that the gods and goddess donned themselves in, and seeing their smiles was enough for her.
and weave your worries away."
Wakahirume was a great goddess of the sun and sunrise, younger sister to the mother of the gods, Amaterasu. Though she was never acknowledged as much as her sister, she was content with life. Famous for her weaving, she used sunlight itself to create magnificent cloth that the gods and goddess donned themselves in, and seeing their smiles was enough for her.
names
♢ wakahirume
ワカヒルメ
♦ asahi-okami
朝日大神 "goddess of the rising sun"
♢ o-no-okami
織の大神 "goddess of weaving"
ワカヒルメ
♦ asahi-okami
朝日大神 "goddess of the rising sun"
♢ o-no-okami
織の大神 "goddess of weaving"
personality
+ motherly | + wise
* introvert | * gullible
- lonely | - fussy
Compared to her sister, Wakahirume is a reclusive and shy individual who prefers to spend her time behind closed doors, weaving the fabric of the gods. She is Heaven's best weaver, producing material that shimmers and shines like a pool of water. Unlike other deities, she is quiet and subdued, lives to perform her duty in helping her sister bring the sun to the skies before retreating back to her crafts while others are loud and social. Although she may not talk much, she is wise and intelligent, having answers for many problems. An introvert, but also a goddess who wants attention sometimes, and relishes in the company of others in her loneliness. Wakahirume is a person one would describe as the perfect housewife, a brilliant cook and a charming smile with a motherly personality. A charisma she inherits along with her sister but keeps is all well away. She always provides a shoulder for those she treasures to try on, or an ear to listen to their problems. Preferring not to deal with lingering issues, Wakahirume is also known as one of the most forgiving goddesses in Heaven.
* introvert | * gullible
- lonely | - fussy
Compared to her sister, Wakahirume is a reclusive and shy individual who prefers to spend her time behind closed doors, weaving the fabric of the gods. She is Heaven's best weaver, producing material that shimmers and shines like a pool of water. Unlike other deities, she is quiet and subdued, lives to perform her duty in helping her sister bring the sun to the skies before retreating back to her crafts while others are loud and social. Although she may not talk much, she is wise and intelligent, having answers for many problems. An introvert, but also a goddess who wants attention sometimes, and relishes in the company of others in her loneliness. Wakahirume is a person one would describe as the perfect housewife, a brilliant cook and a charming smile with a motherly personality. A charisma she inherits along with her sister but keeps is all well away. She always provides a shoulder for those she treasures to try on, or an ear to listen to their problems. Preferring not to deal with lingering issues, Wakahirume is also known as one of the most forgiving goddesses in Heaven.
history
Wakahirume never shone as much as her sister. Amaterasu was a bright and well respected figure, and she was the light of the world. Wakahirume was the sister that stood in her shadow, but she didn't mind how others didn't seem to see her. She was happy that she could assist her sister with her duties, and even happier that her crafts and her fabrics became more and more beautiful each time she weaved. Even if she wasn't known as a sun goddess, the mortals - and even the other gods - began to see her as the goddess of weaving as she created garments for all the deities. She would bless the households and their women to make good clothes for their husbands, out doing hard work to feed their family, or bless the kimono businesses with fortune and luck in hopes that their own crafts would sell well to the people.
She was content with life. But she soon realized that she could be even more happy. Never had she met a more enigmatic character. The God of the West, a charming young-looking god who was wild but far tamer than the God of the South. He was a curious one, taking refuge in her weaving room on one rather loud night, another party hosted by another lively deity. Perhaps it was because they were both lonely and sought company, but were too afraid and too shy to admit it. Wakahirume soon found herself teaching him how to weave, how to churn that anger and that frustration a god that had such a role in society would go through and turn it into wonderful fabric. How to cook, how to use what he thought were rough blacksmith hands to create the most delicate things. The best part was seeing his expression right after, the awe and wonder of seeing the end result of something so beautiful - so different from a sword.
But what was she to do when her brother Susanoo called upon the storms in his anger, enraged at their sister Amaterasu? What was she to do when in his quest to destroy as much as possible in his fit, to spite the sun goddess, and threw a skinned horse into the weaving room? The large animal crashed right into her fragile frame, sending the weaving goddess off the clouds of Heaven, pummeling to her doom to the mortal plane.
Her biggest regret was not being able to say goodbye.
「the goddess of the good harvest, queen of the foxes. 」
the elusive harvest goddess
" why the serious frown?
come and drink your troubles away,
my dearest friend! "
Inari is one of the great beauties among the gods in Yamato, as well as a well-worshiped deity known for her blessings on the harvests of humans, particularly rice. Among foxes, she is venerated as their mother and their queen, with her every whim being catered to by her fox messengers. She walks the earth in many different disguises which hide her beautiful visage if needed to keep an eye out for her fellow gods and to inform Amaterasu.
come and drink your troubles away,
my dearest friend! "
Inari is one of the great beauties among the gods in Yamato, as well as a well-worshiped deity known for her blessings on the harvests of humans, particularly rice. Among foxes, she is venerated as their mother and their queen, with her every whim being catered to by her fox messengers. She walks the earth in many different disguises which hide her beautiful visage if needed to keep an eye out for her fellow gods and to inform Amaterasu.
names
♢ inari okami
稲荷大神
♦ kitsune no megami
キツネの女神 "goddess of the foxes"
♢ shūkaku no megami
収穫の女神 "goddess of harvest"
稲荷大神
♦ kitsune no megami
キツネの女神 "goddess of the foxes"
♢ shūkaku no megami
収穫の女神 "goddess of harvest"
personality
+ jolly | + easygoing
* cunning | * charming
- prideful | - slothful
Those who meet the Goddess of the Foxes will more often than not leave bewitched by her spell. With an easy smile and lighthearted wit, Inari Okami likes to whittle away the troubles and concerns of mortals and immortals alike with pleasant company and copious sake. One of her domains, after all, is over the heavenly drink fermented from her crop, rice. This is why she is most known for her playfulness and her supposed capriciousness, dallying in pettier affairs compared to the more serious gods and goddesses of the land. She is also the one most known to play jokes and harmless tricks on travelers and fellow gods.
Despite her charm and seeming laziness, Inari hides a more observant and haughty side rarely seen by anyone. Her heart has been hurt in the past due to a more earnest side that has long since been smoothed away by the many, many years this immortal has lived and the trials that the gods have experienced. Friends and lovers have been lost and she is not immune to such losses.
* cunning | * charming
- prideful | - slothful
Those who meet the Goddess of the Foxes will more often than not leave bewitched by her spell. With an easy smile and lighthearted wit, Inari Okami likes to whittle away the troubles and concerns of mortals and immortals alike with pleasant company and copious sake. One of her domains, after all, is over the heavenly drink fermented from her crop, rice. This is why she is most known for her playfulness and her supposed capriciousness, dallying in pettier affairs compared to the more serious gods and goddesses of the land. She is also the one most known to play jokes and harmless tricks on travelers and fellow gods.
Despite her charm and seeming laziness, Inari hides a more observant and haughty side rarely seen by anyone. Her heart has been hurt in the past due to a more earnest side that has long since been smoothed away by the many, many years this immortal has lived and the trials that the gods have experienced. Friends and lovers have been lost and she is not immune to such losses.
history
Inari (also known as Oinari) is the Japanese kami (spirit) of foxes, of fertility, rice, tea and Sake, of agriculture and industry, of general prosperity and worldly success, and one of the principal kami of Shinto. In earlier Japan, Inari was also the patron of swordsmiths and merchants.
This meant that Inari has worked alongside and with Nishibyakko in the past, both being patrons of similar domains such as agriculture and swordsmiths. The two were known to be quite close to each other, but an incident in their pasts has led them to drift apart and now the two regard each other as friends but little else. Inari considers the Great Tiger God as a friend, but looks on at his deteriorating conditions and his loss of followers with both indifference and dismay for what has been lost.
Deferring to Amaterasu who is the leader of the gods and goddesses, Inari has been bidden not to interfere in her friends' skirmishes and conflicts with the humans and the Emperor himself. However she still hears word of him in her travels to her own temples and shrines, visiting humans she has blessed and taken under her wing. Inari Okami is one of the gods who view humans more favorably, yet she is still notably indifferent to their plights - however her eyes and ears are nearly everywhere around the land in the form of her foxes and the elusive kitsunes who worship her.
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「lord of the red oni clan, king of the mountain.」
the leader of the mountain oni
" a true leader knows the way, shows the way,
and goes the way, you fucking idiot."
The head chieftain of the red oni mountain clans is the true embodiment of a member of his species. Immensely powerful, strength that no oni could be compared to, bloodthirsty and a war-loving youkai that only humans call barbarians. To his followers and subordinates, he is a kind and forgiving leader who leads them the way to victory in the scramble for territory and fortune in the high altitudes of the western mountains.
and goes the way, you fucking idiot."
The head chieftain of the red oni mountain clans is the true embodiment of a member of his species. Immensely powerful, strength that no oni could be compared to, bloodthirsty and a war-loving youkai that only humans call barbarians. To his followers and subordinates, he is a kind and forgiving leader who leads them the way to victory in the scramble for territory and fortune in the high altitudes of the western mountains.
names
♢ jagaimo
ジャガイモ
♦ saketenno
酒天王 "sake king"
♢ akaoni no shuryou
赤鬼の首領 "chieftain of the red oni"
ジャガイモ
♦ saketenno
酒天王 "sake king"
♢ akaoni no shuryou
赤鬼の首領 "chieftain of the red oni"
personality
+ laidback | + charismatic
* stubborn | * informal
- rude | - cocky
The legendary leader of the red oni clans is as what most would expect. To his people, he is a charismatic chieftain who is fearless and brave. Imagery of him charging headfirst into battle with his eyes red with bloodlust and sword cutting through the ranks is common. Other than his brilliant leadership abilities, he is just like any other oni one would find. A sake-loving, loud-mouthed and somewhat rude red-skinned youkai who loves his off-time and is laidback and carefree among his people. He isn't one for politeness and modesty, he proudly brags about his achievements - and he believes he has the right to - and has a notable lack of manners in human standards. Jagaimo speaks colloquially, his language and vocabulary littered with cuss words and slang that would make any civilized citizen's ears bleed.
His most notable attribute is his pride. He has quite the ego, and appreciates others stroking it. His pride makes him a stubborn man who finds it difficult to understand that he may be in the wrong, rendering apologies from the oni a rare occurrence, as the oni is too hesitant to lower himself down to anyone else's level. Not used to being proven wrong or being told what to do, when he is challenged, Jagaimo often has no clue how to respond. No snark, no sass, simply confusion and surprise. However, he seems intrigued by these more submissive emotions, especially those sparked by his wife. He pretends to detest her, but the attraction and love (he would never admit it) for her is very real.
Despite his rash attitude, he is a loyal leader who never abandons his own people. He puts them before himself, even though his pride and ego is inflated, and values the opinions of those around him.
* stubborn | * informal
- rude | - cocky
The legendary leader of the red oni clans is as what most would expect. To his people, he is a charismatic chieftain who is fearless and brave. Imagery of him charging headfirst into battle with his eyes red with bloodlust and sword cutting through the ranks is common. Other than his brilliant leadership abilities, he is just like any other oni one would find. A sake-loving, loud-mouthed and somewhat rude red-skinned youkai who loves his off-time and is laidback and carefree among his people. He isn't one for politeness and modesty, he proudly brags about his achievements - and he believes he has the right to - and has a notable lack of manners in human standards. Jagaimo speaks colloquially, his language and vocabulary littered with cuss words and slang that would make any civilized citizen's ears bleed.
His most notable attribute is his pride. He has quite the ego, and appreciates others stroking it. His pride makes him a stubborn man who finds it difficult to understand that he may be in the wrong, rendering apologies from the oni a rare occurrence, as the oni is too hesitant to lower himself down to anyone else's level. Not used to being proven wrong or being told what to do, when he is challenged, Jagaimo often has no clue how to respond. No snark, no sass, simply confusion and surprise. However, he seems intrigued by these more submissive emotions, especially those sparked by his wife. He pretends to detest her, but the attraction and love (he would never admit it) for her is very real.
Despite his rash attitude, he is a loyal leader who never abandons his own people. He puts them before himself, even though his pride and ego is inflated, and values the opinions of those around him.
history
Jagaimo is the fearsome leader of the red oni, who fight over territory with the yellow and the green oni in the mountainous ranges of Yamato. Despite his personality he is one of the most famous and successful leaders of his clan thus far, leaving victory after victory in his wake alongside his most closest confidant, his deputy commander Satoimo. His actions have led him to be given the title as one of the most 'evil' youkai in the eyes of mortals.
He made his first mark near the capital, having inherited his position during a time where the oni were pushed back into the mountains by the Emperor and his soldiers. Jagaimo's plan was cruel, just enough to scare his enemies and have them flee - leaving the oni alone to fight among the other clans in peace. He stormed the city, kidnapping the women of the capital to devour their flesh and dine on them, sipping their blood like liquor of the gods. This singular bout in history was enough for the oni clan to be left alone, isolated in their mountain homes, his name and legend left imprinted in human history.
It was said that Jagaimo was always a pretty boy, even when he was young. Handsome and a talented wielder of the sword, a fearsome beserker who showed promise. The oni grew incredibly fast, he talked earlier than all the others, had the strength of elephants as a mere child, ran faster, thought better and was smarter. A destined leader of the oni clan.
However, he always seemed to have a little trouble when it came to girls. Though many came to him with love letters, he would simply take them and burn them, finding their love-stricken attitude strange and confusing. What on earth were they doing, he would think. Focused on more battling and drinking, he found demure oni women to not suit his taste, but for some reason that was all they ever were - demure and modest in front of him, their leader.
Eventually, he was to be wed to a princess of a yellow oni clan, masters of magic and talented drummers who could call upon lightning itself. An arranged marriage meant nothing to him romantically, but he knew he had to create a strong alliance in order to secure more of the mountain for both clans. Little did he knew his wife-to-be was a little different than all the other girls...
He made his first mark near the capital, having inherited his position during a time where the oni were pushed back into the mountains by the Emperor and his soldiers. Jagaimo's plan was cruel, just enough to scare his enemies and have them flee - leaving the oni alone to fight among the other clans in peace. He stormed the city, kidnapping the women of the capital to devour their flesh and dine on them, sipping their blood like liquor of the gods. This singular bout in history was enough for the oni clan to be left alone, isolated in their mountain homes, his name and legend left imprinted in human history.
It was said that Jagaimo was always a pretty boy, even when he was young. Handsome and a talented wielder of the sword, a fearsome beserker who showed promise. The oni grew incredibly fast, he talked earlier than all the others, had the strength of elephants as a mere child, ran faster, thought better and was smarter. A destined leader of the oni clan.
However, he always seemed to have a little trouble when it came to girls. Though many came to him with love letters, he would simply take them and burn them, finding their love-stricken attitude strange and confusing. What on earth were they doing, he would think. Focused on more battling and drinking, he found demure oni women to not suit his taste, but for some reason that was all they ever were - demure and modest in front of him, their leader.
Eventually, he was to be wed to a princess of a yellow oni clan, masters of magic and talented drummers who could call upon lightning itself. An arranged marriage meant nothing to him romantically, but he knew he had to create a strong alliance in order to secure more of the mountain for both clans. Little did he knew his wife-to-be was a little different than all the other girls...
「a lethal weapon hidden in a pretty package, princess of the oni.」
the princess of the lightning bloodline
" a princess of the proud oni bloodline is no mere
warmer for your bed, my foolish husband.
remember just who and what you married. "
Most people would expect a soft-spoken princess, a delicate waif swathed in fine clothes and untouched by hardship. Of course, most people have not experienced the hardships the onis once faced and still do as they war among themselves. Akinobu-hime is as strong and bright as her name implies and more, tempering beauty with wit and delicacy with devastating skill. Despite her youth she is someone her people would go to war for, proving her skill in leading a clan.
warmer for your bed, my foolish husband.
remember just who and what you married. "
Most people would expect a soft-spoken princess, a delicate waif swathed in fine clothes and untouched by hardship. Of course, most people have not experienced the hardships the onis once faced and still do as they war among themselves. Akinobu-hime is as strong and bright as her name implies and more, tempering beauty with wit and delicacy with devastating skill. Despite her youth she is someone her people would go to war for, proving her skill in leading a clan.
names
♢ akinobuhime
明信姫
♦ ogonshoku ōjo
黄金王女 "the golden princess"
♢ oni no ōjo
鬼の王女 "princess of the oni"
明信姫
♦ ogonshoku ōjo
黄金王女 "the golden princess"
♢ oni no ōjo
鬼の王女 "princess of the oni"
personality
+ iron-willed | + discerning
* secretly naive | * prideful
- jealous | - vindictive
As a princess, Akinobu-hime has all the classicism and refinement expected of her. Looks, grace, intellect, and culture are all hers in the palms of her hands in plenty, but she was never the soft and gentle princess that was often glorified by humans. As an oni, she has inherited their strength and their pride in full, and multiplied even tenfold because of her parents and her lineage. She appreciates the more violent and masculine pursuits of swordsmanship and battle for this very reason, daring to step foot into her father's battle planning with his men and input her own advice and sharp thinking.
However, her youth is still one of the things that can stop her short and cause an imbalance despite all her talent and gilded bloodline. As a demon of only three centuries alive, she is still considered youthful and hasn't experienced all there is yet to see, though she has experience in fighting and planning. Her pride is also a thing that can be both her strength and her downfall, with her being self-aware enough of her pride, but also thinking that it is a given because of who she is.
The princess is a jealous and vindictive woman whose temper and pride flares at what she considers insults to her family and herself. This applies to people who shirk what she thinks is their duty and if they dismiss or belittle her as nothing more than a figurehead and puppet princess. This comes into dangerous paths when she chooses to retaliate, often with untold viciousness.
Though despite her more fierce side, Akinobu-hime prefers to maintain formality and control where her husband is lacking. They would make quite a charismatic pair if it weren't for their disdain of each other... And despite their personal disagreements, even the princess cares deeply for her clan. She would not have agreed, after all, to marry Jagaimo if it weren't for the wellbeing of their people being assured in the alliance. She knows how to concede and respect his strength and experience; however she rarely ever says it.
* secretly naive | * prideful
- jealous | - vindictive
As a princess, Akinobu-hime has all the classicism and refinement expected of her. Looks, grace, intellect, and culture are all hers in the palms of her hands in plenty, but she was never the soft and gentle princess that was often glorified by humans. As an oni, she has inherited their strength and their pride in full, and multiplied even tenfold because of her parents and her lineage. She appreciates the more violent and masculine pursuits of swordsmanship and battle for this very reason, daring to step foot into her father's battle planning with his men and input her own advice and sharp thinking.
However, her youth is still one of the things that can stop her short and cause an imbalance despite all her talent and gilded bloodline. As a demon of only three centuries alive, she is still considered youthful and hasn't experienced all there is yet to see, though she has experience in fighting and planning. Her pride is also a thing that can be both her strength and her downfall, with her being self-aware enough of her pride, but also thinking that it is a given because of who she is.
The princess is a jealous and vindictive woman whose temper and pride flares at what she considers insults to her family and herself. This applies to people who shirk what she thinks is their duty and if they dismiss or belittle her as nothing more than a figurehead and puppet princess. This comes into dangerous paths when she chooses to retaliate, often with untold viciousness.
Though despite her more fierce side, Akinobu-hime prefers to maintain formality and control where her husband is lacking. They would make quite a charismatic pair if it weren't for their disdain of each other... And despite their personal disagreements, even the princess cares deeply for her clan. She would not have agreed, after all, to marry Jagaimo if it weren't for the wellbeing of their people being assured in the alliance. She knows how to concede and respect his strength and experience; however she rarely ever says it.
history
With her golden bloodline and magic singing in her veins, Akinobu-hime and her gilded ancestry made her a very desirable match for many oni chieftains or their sons. However, no one had quite come close to gaining her hand because of the way her subjects would fiercely deny them - not a hair would be touched on the princess's golden head if it were up to them. In return, her protection and her benevolent gaze was their reward, and a sharp intellect that helped her father and his generals win battles for their people. Calm, controlled, and graceful, the oni princess is the pride of her clan. Akinobu-hime performed her duties to the letter with strict standards on herself.
Her bloodline tracing back to the old and fearsome oni warriors that once terrorized the humans, Akinobu-hime was a princess born and bred from the old traditions. Born to a proud noble family with a dying line, everyone knew the value of a rare fertile female being born, setting things into play that the infant had no control over the moment she took her first breath of air and settled into the world. Because women were rare and valued among the mountain youkai, her father was not so willing to give her away to others.
The oni were a race of warriors, and that didn't stop at their men. The princess was a powerful youkai in her own right because of her parents, and not even her relative youth can stop that from showing. Her strength surpassed even some men of her race, but it is her speed and viciousness that kept her people firmly supplanted to their knees in worship of this woman. To her clan, she was a goddess. A gifted swordswoman in her own right, her alacrity and her ability to use lightning to enhance her lethal capability made her a force in herself.
However her clan was not the only clan of oni out there, and soon her father was held in a standstill that could only be broken by giving his most precious daughter. In spite of this, the princess refused to be pushed aside and dismissed as nothing but an heir-giver to her new husband...
Her bloodline tracing back to the old and fearsome oni warriors that once terrorized the humans, Akinobu-hime was a princess born and bred from the old traditions. Born to a proud noble family with a dying line, everyone knew the value of a rare fertile female being born, setting things into play that the infant had no control over the moment she took her first breath of air and settled into the world. Because women were rare and valued among the mountain youkai, her father was not so willing to give her away to others.
The oni were a race of warriors, and that didn't stop at their men. The princess was a powerful youkai in her own right because of her parents, and not even her relative youth can stop that from showing. Her strength surpassed even some men of her race, but it is her speed and viciousness that kept her people firmly supplanted to their knees in worship of this woman. To her clan, she was a goddess. A gifted swordswoman in her own right, her alacrity and her ability to use lightning to enhance her lethal capability made her a force in herself.
However her clan was not the only clan of oni out there, and soon her father was held in a standstill that could only be broken by giving his most precious daughter. In spite of this, the princess refused to be pushed aside and dismissed as nothing but an heir-giver to her new husband...
MEMORIES OF AUTUMN
ONE: WITHER.
ONE: WITHER.
she was there to witness the silent glances full of forever between them. until one day, two became one and he was left scrambling in the wake of the gaping emptiness love left in his heart. even now she wonders if that one simple attempt to comfort him was either the greatest or lowest point in her life. "we're friends, aren't we? let me do this much for you... as a friend."
part one
"Sometimes I'm terrified of my heart; of it's constant hunger for whatever it is it wants. The way it stops and starts." - Edgar Allan Poe
When the kami gathered together for a night of drunken revelry, the unexpected little things always tended to happen not in the midst of the dancing and the laughing. Even they were ever so susceptible to the way the sake of the heavens would dull usually sharp minds and often-guarded hearts, secrets close to tumbling out of loosened lips and fumbling gestures. Perhaps it was in those times that they were most human.
Even the gods craved for companionship and understanding. The longing to touch not only with their hands, but also their hearts. Whether it be through the magical sway that even drink held over them or confidence that shone through even free of the influence, they craved it. It was why Amaterasu would share those private looks with the quiet Tsukiyomi. It was why the gods would indulge in talks they could rarely get if they walked the earth.
Simply put, these gatherings where perfect venues to witness gods letting their guards down.
Inari knew it.
Here she could see the subtle nuances in every bond that tied gods and goddesses to each other. The fragile and easily frayed thread between Amaterasu and her other brother, Susanoo. How the two were more often than not on guard around each other, and even when alcohol loosened their limbs, their tongues still remained like poisonous snakes ready to strike out at each other. How Tsukiyomi was the only middle ground the two had. Those three were such a curious trinity.
Those three were so often lauded that their other sister was left forgotten, in the shadow of their mighty figures.
"It is so good to see you again, Inari." She chuckled and shared a mirthful look with one of her closest cohorts, the goddess Benzaiten. They were seated on what were possibly the plushest seat cushions. Or Inari more or less sprawled in an almost brazen manner among an abundance of pillows surrounding their seats, while her more poised friend lay on her side in a more composed way. "How has your travels around the land been treating you? Well, I assume?"
Pushing herself up with one arm, the fox goddess hummed lightly as a heated bottle of sake poured itself into her cup, tipping her head back and letting the smooth liquid slide down her throat. She sighed happily; drinking was always best in good company. As the cup was lowered her azure eyes wandered the room for the subject of her roaming thoughts. "Hmmm~ I think I have made quite a lot of admirers, maybe I should have gone in a less noticeable form for my last visit. That lessens the fun though..."
There. She wasn't quite sure why her thoughts would suddenly wander over to an acquaintance she rarely spoke to, and admittedly wasn't as close as she could be with. Wakahirume was always so shy and withdrawn among them...
"Such a cheeky fox you are, breaking so many hearts," the goddess of love and intimacy laughed, amused at her friend's antics. Inari's lips curved cheekily, but she didn't take her eyes off of where she caught a flash of long brown hair.
For a moment, her brows rose slightly and she almost didn't catch the rest of Benzaiten's chuckled words.
There at the furthermost side from them in the expansive room - it was a room fit for the gods to let loose in, after all - stood a figure in white and red. She never quite understood why Wakahirume didn't think she was as noticeable as her sister, or other goddesses. Wakahirume wasn't undesirable - far from it rather with her silky brown hair and alabaster complexion free of any flaws, a subtle glow in her very body. Yet she always hid herself.
Though what was this? Across the dawn goddess was a god that Inari did call a friend, but oh - this was interesting~
"Ne, Benzaiten, look at those two," twirling a finger daintily in the unaware couple's direction, she turned her friend's attention to them. A grin stretched on her face, eyes glittering in curiosity. "Don't they look awfully cozy?"
As expected, the goddess of intimacy already knew. Benzaiten giggled knowingly and sat up. "Oho, Nishibyakko Okami has been pursuing our lovely and shy dawn. Though I must say, he is being quite bold now," she remarked with a cocked eyebrow.
"Oh?" Popping a sweet confection that shone with opalescent colors into her mouth, Inari snickered softly. Nishibyakko wasn't known for being brazen and bold, he was among the quieter half of the four beasts. The Northern and Western gods were quieter than the Eastern and Southern ones. He was a gentleman, to be sure, but she had a feeling he was mostly clueless to intimacy and affection. Even Azumeseiryuu enjoyed the attention of ladies in his own clueless way, Suzaku basked in any praise from women like the fluffed up peacock he was, and Genbu was quite literally a millenia-old virgin.
Which was a shame, really. Such handsome looks were wasted upon such a man.
But she was not here to sigh about Kitagenbu.
That flush on Wakahirume's face was faint but really quite telling, with how close the tiger god's face was lowered as he bent over for her. The two goddesses on the other side of the room could see her delicate hand in Nishibyakko's own, held close to his chest. The way their breaths most likely mingled from such close proximity and fed into the blush on her face made Inari laugh inwardly. But the blush that was also - just barely - dusting the god's cheeks as he tried to look at his woman enticingly made her snicker aloud.
Nishibyakko wasn't a lightweight at drinking, even if he was reserved, alright. There could only be alcohol fueling the impulsiveness in his violet eyes as he did such a gesture in a room full of people. Then again, most other people were drinking or bickering - she could see Minamisuzaku trying to rant at a completely unimpressed Kitagenbu - and far too busy mingling with each other to notice the little moment the couple was having so close to the exit.
"Oh my, he's trying to get her to come out for more privacy with him-" The two goddesses shared a look and Inari fought the urge to fall over laughing. He definitely was, what with the way he was murmuring in Wakahirume's ear even if he looked away awkwardly as he tugged at her hand. He sent a meaningful look to the exit they were already so close to as a flicker of hesitation appeared on the goddess's face. The way he was sending a look almost pleading was adorable.
"He is like a child asking for a present, you know?" Unable to stifle another amused laugh, Inari shook her head.
"Nishibyakko Okami is a child in love~ Wakahirume is his first, after all," Benzaiten piped up with a shake of her head and a smile.
Completely uncaring of the fact they were practically spying on the two - those two brought it upon themselves, really - they watched the couple talk softly between themselves.
That was until Benzaiten suddenly had a look of concern creasing her face. "Inari," she tugged on her friend's sleeve to catch her attention. Inari turned to her, blinking.
"... Susanoo has been distracted with his siblings, but he might catch sight of them..." The fox goddess's eyes widened in understanding. That was not really a good thing for Nishibyakko and Wakahirume. She also looked in the direction of the three siblings, at an even more extravagantly laid table and piles upon piles of cushions. Susanoo was sprawled ungracefully among them, the faint scowl present as ever on his face despite the flush on his cheeks. He looked like he was getting increasingly vexed with something Amaterasu was saying, and ready to rise to his feet and walk away.
From the looks of it, even Nishibyakko realized it as he and Wakahirume now agreed to leave the party.
"Benzaiten, I can't leave a friend in need." Standing up and nodding firmly to herself, Inari grinned a little at the doubtful look on her friend's face. "Trust me, I know what to do~" Even if it didn't quite work the way it should, Susanoo was going to be distracted one way or another enough to let the couple slip away. And Nishibyakko wasn't going to get gutted by an angry brother of his woman.
She panicked a little inside as she made her way through the room, hearing the stomping footsteps of one Susanoo leaving the table with Amaterasu. Amaterasu and Tsukiyomi looked after his back with similar frowns on their faces. Susanoo-no-mikoto is such a petulant child sometimes, isn't he?
Glancing in the direction of the exit she caught a fluttering edge of a kimono sleeve. Wakahirume and Nishibyakko had finally left, but now Susanoo was also planning on storming out of the place.
Grimacing - at least he was farther from the exit than she was? - Inari flicked her fingers and disappeared in a wisp of azure flames, appearing right outside the exit. It really was a boon that she was one of the kami who had the highest alcohol tolerances, she could still use magic accurately without blowing anything up unlike the rest of the drunken kami back in the party.
Just her luck, she appeared before a startled couple. Wakahirume and NIshibyakko halted as the fox goddess startled them. And Inari snorted lightly as they almost snatched their hands away from each other, almost as if burned. Only the tiger god somehow regained his nerve and held firmly on to the goddess's hand.
"Nishibyakko, try to be bold away from her brother's range next time, alright?" He tightened his jaw - just a slight twitch in his mouth that the fox's sharp blue eyes didn't miss - at her words. There was a very faint blush on his cheeks that still did make him look so very precious, but she had a feeling teasing him about it wasn't going to help any of them.
Flipping open her fan, she tilted her head and surveyed the two through suddenly lidded and suggestive eyes. Her gaze wandered over to Wakahirume, who was blinking at her in embarrassed puzzlement. "I do hope that he makes it worth it for you two as I put my neck on the chopping board~ Wakahirume, make sure he makes it memorable," she finished with a wink, watching the other woman blush prettily.
"I-I-Inari-san, that's not-" Wakahirume's voice was still ever so soft and demure even as she protested.
The fox goddess waved her fan off at the other's flimsy excuses. "Darling, I could read lips from afar, and you two were being awfully brazen there. Benzaiten agrees wholeheartedly." Just the mention of another kami witnessing the 'moment' had the two flushing in front of her like adolescents caught redhanded. Wakahirume was definitely more embarrassed; she didn't know Inari as well as Nishibyakko. The Western god was more familiar with the fox's ways, managing to hold back most of his embarrassment from his face.
"Anyway, I'm off to chat with your brother~ And thank you for being there for my shy Western friend, Wakahirume~"
Stepping aside, she waved them on behind her. The two flashed guilty expressions at her. "Thank you, Inari," Nishibyakko finally spoke up, curt and just a tad flustered. He cooled down, though, and held the fox goddess's gaze with is own, grudging thanks in his violet eyes. "I'll find you a gift some time for this. Now Wakahirume, let's hurry..." But as those eyes left her and settled on Wakahirume, Inari was inwardly agape at just how much they softened.
I wonder if someone will ever look at me like that? The smile Nishibyakko gave to reassure Wakahirume could be called beautiful, and nothing else. The way the tension left his face to reassure her, the way everything relaxed in him-
Even the men who were so besotted with Inari didn't have those eyes. Understanding eyes. Admiring, but not idealizing. As if he saw not just the beauty but also the flaws, but still accepted it as a part of Wakahirume.
And Inari was almost envious. The moment quickly passed as they nodded at her, and she was thankful for the fan hiding the somber expression that minutely crossed her face.
They hurried onwards as Inari smiled underneath her fan once more, inhaling deeply as she heard Susanoo's loud footsteps, making her ears twitch. Now she had a cranky storm god to charm. Maybe she could get him to like her enough for a good tumble among the futon sheets later tonight... Susanoo wasn't so bad looking whenever he did smile, after all. Though he can't quite smile like Nishibyakko did for Wakahirume...
Even the gods craved for companionship and understanding. The longing to touch not only with their hands, but also their hearts. Whether it be through the magical sway that even drink held over them or confidence that shone through even free of the influence, they craved it. It was why Amaterasu would share those private looks with the quiet Tsukiyomi. It was why the gods would indulge in talks they could rarely get if they walked the earth.
Simply put, these gatherings where perfect venues to witness gods letting their guards down.
Inari knew it.
Here she could see the subtle nuances in every bond that tied gods and goddesses to each other. The fragile and easily frayed thread between Amaterasu and her other brother, Susanoo. How the two were more often than not on guard around each other, and even when alcohol loosened their limbs, their tongues still remained like poisonous snakes ready to strike out at each other. How Tsukiyomi was the only middle ground the two had. Those three were such a curious trinity.
Those three were so often lauded that their other sister was left forgotten, in the shadow of their mighty figures.
"It is so good to see you again, Inari." She chuckled and shared a mirthful look with one of her closest cohorts, the goddess Benzaiten. They were seated on what were possibly the plushest seat cushions. Or Inari more or less sprawled in an almost brazen manner among an abundance of pillows surrounding their seats, while her more poised friend lay on her side in a more composed way. "How has your travels around the land been treating you? Well, I assume?"
Pushing herself up with one arm, the fox goddess hummed lightly as a heated bottle of sake poured itself into her cup, tipping her head back and letting the smooth liquid slide down her throat. She sighed happily; drinking was always best in good company. As the cup was lowered her azure eyes wandered the room for the subject of her roaming thoughts. "Hmmm~ I think I have made quite a lot of admirers, maybe I should have gone in a less noticeable form for my last visit. That lessens the fun though..."
There. She wasn't quite sure why her thoughts would suddenly wander over to an acquaintance she rarely spoke to, and admittedly wasn't as close as she could be with. Wakahirume was always so shy and withdrawn among them...
"Such a cheeky fox you are, breaking so many hearts," the goddess of love and intimacy laughed, amused at her friend's antics. Inari's lips curved cheekily, but she didn't take her eyes off of where she caught a flash of long brown hair.
For a moment, her brows rose slightly and she almost didn't catch the rest of Benzaiten's chuckled words.
There at the furthermost side from them in the expansive room - it was a room fit for the gods to let loose in, after all - stood a figure in white and red. She never quite understood why Wakahirume didn't think she was as noticeable as her sister, or other goddesses. Wakahirume wasn't undesirable - far from it rather with her silky brown hair and alabaster complexion free of any flaws, a subtle glow in her very body. Yet she always hid herself.
Though what was this? Across the dawn goddess was a god that Inari did call a friend, but oh - this was interesting~
"Ne, Benzaiten, look at those two," twirling a finger daintily in the unaware couple's direction, she turned her friend's attention to them. A grin stretched on her face, eyes glittering in curiosity. "Don't they look awfully cozy?"
As expected, the goddess of intimacy already knew. Benzaiten giggled knowingly and sat up. "Oho, Nishibyakko Okami has been pursuing our lovely and shy dawn. Though I must say, he is being quite bold now," she remarked with a cocked eyebrow.
"Oh?" Popping a sweet confection that shone with opalescent colors into her mouth, Inari snickered softly. Nishibyakko wasn't known for being brazen and bold, he was among the quieter half of the four beasts. The Northern and Western gods were quieter than the Eastern and Southern ones. He was a gentleman, to be sure, but she had a feeling he was mostly clueless to intimacy and affection. Even Azumeseiryuu enjoyed the attention of ladies in his own clueless way, Suzaku basked in any praise from women like the fluffed up peacock he was, and Genbu was quite literally a millenia-old virgin.
Which was a shame, really. Such handsome looks were wasted upon such a man.
But she was not here to sigh about Kitagenbu.
That flush on Wakahirume's face was faint but really quite telling, with how close the tiger god's face was lowered as he bent over for her. The two goddesses on the other side of the room could see her delicate hand in Nishibyakko's own, held close to his chest. The way their breaths most likely mingled from such close proximity and fed into the blush on her face made Inari laugh inwardly. But the blush that was also - just barely - dusting the god's cheeks as he tried to look at his woman enticingly made her snicker aloud.
Nishibyakko wasn't a lightweight at drinking, even if he was reserved, alright. There could only be alcohol fueling the impulsiveness in his violet eyes as he did such a gesture in a room full of people. Then again, most other people were drinking or bickering - she could see Minamisuzaku trying to rant at a completely unimpressed Kitagenbu - and far too busy mingling with each other to notice the little moment the couple was having so close to the exit.
"Oh my, he's trying to get her to come out for more privacy with him-" The two goddesses shared a look and Inari fought the urge to fall over laughing. He definitely was, what with the way he was murmuring in Wakahirume's ear even if he looked away awkwardly as he tugged at her hand. He sent a meaningful look to the exit they were already so close to as a flicker of hesitation appeared on the goddess's face. The way he was sending a look almost pleading was adorable.
"He is like a child asking for a present, you know?" Unable to stifle another amused laugh, Inari shook her head.
"Nishibyakko Okami is a child in love~ Wakahirume is his first, after all," Benzaiten piped up with a shake of her head and a smile.
Completely uncaring of the fact they were practically spying on the two - those two brought it upon themselves, really - they watched the couple talk softly between themselves.
That was until Benzaiten suddenly had a look of concern creasing her face. "Inari," she tugged on her friend's sleeve to catch her attention. Inari turned to her, blinking.
"... Susanoo has been distracted with his siblings, but he might catch sight of them..." The fox goddess's eyes widened in understanding. That was not really a good thing for Nishibyakko and Wakahirume. She also looked in the direction of the three siblings, at an even more extravagantly laid table and piles upon piles of cushions. Susanoo was sprawled ungracefully among them, the faint scowl present as ever on his face despite the flush on his cheeks. He looked like he was getting increasingly vexed with something Amaterasu was saying, and ready to rise to his feet and walk away.
From the looks of it, even Nishibyakko realized it as he and Wakahirume now agreed to leave the party.
"Benzaiten, I can't leave a friend in need." Standing up and nodding firmly to herself, Inari grinned a little at the doubtful look on her friend's face. "Trust me, I know what to do~" Even if it didn't quite work the way it should, Susanoo was going to be distracted one way or another enough to let the couple slip away. And Nishibyakko wasn't going to get gutted by an angry brother of his woman.
She panicked a little inside as she made her way through the room, hearing the stomping footsteps of one Susanoo leaving the table with Amaterasu. Amaterasu and Tsukiyomi looked after his back with similar frowns on their faces. Susanoo-no-mikoto is such a petulant child sometimes, isn't he?
Glancing in the direction of the exit she caught a fluttering edge of a kimono sleeve. Wakahirume and Nishibyakko had finally left, but now Susanoo was also planning on storming out of the place.
Grimacing - at least he was farther from the exit than she was? - Inari flicked her fingers and disappeared in a wisp of azure flames, appearing right outside the exit. It really was a boon that she was one of the kami who had the highest alcohol tolerances, she could still use magic accurately without blowing anything up unlike the rest of the drunken kami back in the party.
Just her luck, she appeared before a startled couple. Wakahirume and NIshibyakko halted as the fox goddess startled them. And Inari snorted lightly as they almost snatched their hands away from each other, almost as if burned. Only the tiger god somehow regained his nerve and held firmly on to the goddess's hand.
"Nishibyakko, try to be bold away from her brother's range next time, alright?" He tightened his jaw - just a slight twitch in his mouth that the fox's sharp blue eyes didn't miss - at her words. There was a very faint blush on his cheeks that still did make him look so very precious, but she had a feeling teasing him about it wasn't going to help any of them.
Flipping open her fan, she tilted her head and surveyed the two through suddenly lidded and suggestive eyes. Her gaze wandered over to Wakahirume, who was blinking at her in embarrassed puzzlement. "I do hope that he makes it worth it for you two as I put my neck on the chopping board~ Wakahirume, make sure he makes it memorable," she finished with a wink, watching the other woman blush prettily.
"I-I-Inari-san, that's not-" Wakahirume's voice was still ever so soft and demure even as she protested.
The fox goddess waved her fan off at the other's flimsy excuses. "Darling, I could read lips from afar, and you two were being awfully brazen there. Benzaiten agrees wholeheartedly." Just the mention of another kami witnessing the 'moment' had the two flushing in front of her like adolescents caught redhanded. Wakahirume was definitely more embarrassed; she didn't know Inari as well as Nishibyakko. The Western god was more familiar with the fox's ways, managing to hold back most of his embarrassment from his face.
"Anyway, I'm off to chat with your brother~ And thank you for being there for my shy Western friend, Wakahirume~"
Stepping aside, she waved them on behind her. The two flashed guilty expressions at her. "Thank you, Inari," Nishibyakko finally spoke up, curt and just a tad flustered. He cooled down, though, and held the fox goddess's gaze with is own, grudging thanks in his violet eyes. "I'll find you a gift some time for this. Now Wakahirume, let's hurry..." But as those eyes left her and settled on Wakahirume, Inari was inwardly agape at just how much they softened.
I wonder if someone will ever look at me like that? The smile Nishibyakko gave to reassure Wakahirume could be called beautiful, and nothing else. The way the tension left his face to reassure her, the way everything relaxed in him-
Even the men who were so besotted with Inari didn't have those eyes. Understanding eyes. Admiring, but not idealizing. As if he saw not just the beauty but also the flaws, but still accepted it as a part of Wakahirume.
And Inari was almost envious. The moment quickly passed as they nodded at her, and she was thankful for the fan hiding the somber expression that minutely crossed her face.
They hurried onwards as Inari smiled underneath her fan once more, inhaling deeply as she heard Susanoo's loud footsteps, making her ears twitch. Now she had a cranky storm god to charm. Maybe she could get him to like her enough for a good tumble among the futon sheets later tonight... Susanoo wasn't so bad looking whenever he did smile, after all. Though he can't quite smile like Nishibyakko did for Wakahirume...
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神の二死剣
two death swords of the gods
choose - die a horrible death, or one of enlightenment?
in the time the great god nishibyakko sat in his forge and created swords filled with the power of takamagahara, his hammer created swords that no man could ever hope to replicate. though the god made many, enough to supply even all the handmaidens and guards with blades made of living steel - only seven did he consider his greatest works. were they for his fellow deities? were they for those who served him? no, they were for mortals. mortals who were defenseless against the youkai of the land. the great god nishibyakko cared for mortals so much he wielded each blade with a bit of his own soul, granting them protective powers that shielded them from harm.
but yet, even though he had done so much for them, their wielders dare to point the blade at their creator
in the time the great god nishibyakko sat in his forge and created swords filled with the power of takamagahara, his hammer created swords that no man could ever hope to replicate. though the god made many, enough to supply even all the handmaidens and guards with blades made of living steel - only seven did he consider his greatest works. were they for his fellow deities? were they for those who served him? no, they were for mortals. mortals who were defenseless against the youkai of the land. the great god nishibyakko cared for mortals so much he wielded each blade with a bit of his own soul, granting them protective powers that shielded them from harm.
but yet, even though he had done so much for them, their wielders dare to point the blade at their creator
first blade: 真刀「波」Shintō Nami (True Sword, Wave)
the chokutō of truths, a basic blade that harbored great beauty. its simplicity was enough to capture the hearts of all that saw it. a ceremonial sword that was often used for dance in worshiping the great god nishibyakko. from its iron body it releases waves of pure energy - the celestial aura of takamagahara, banishing all youkai and keeping them away from all those protected by shintō nami. "do not come near us," the priest said. "for the love nishibyakko-okamisama has for us shields us all." but abandonment by those who cared for him had changed the god. as he lay down his hammer, his hatred for humankind simmering, so did the truth of the blade waver. it began to rust metals around it except itself. it wilted and destroyed crops and plantlife with its aura. a cursed blade, people whispered. a weapon of mass destruction. "
second blade: 札刀「封」Fudatō Fuu (Amulet Sword, Seal)
the hayashi family heirloom, the tanto of sealing and banishment, a single scratch from its glimmering blade would be enough to create an opening to seal a youkai away. even the fudatō fuu itself could hold a cruel, cruel monster in a cold captive cell for the rest of its life. the great god gave it to the handsome men of the hayashi family. "wield it," he said. "the women cannot do everything - use it and banish those youkai who plague your life."
third blade: 堅刀「獣」Kentō Kemono (Hard Sword, Brute)
the odachi of takamagahara - long enough to pierce the heavens. his finest work, it took the god centuries to perfect its curved blade. there was no opponent that could shatter it. it would never bend, never break, never rust. monsters feared facing it, knowing they would lose. the tengu and oni of the mountains thirsted for it - for it would end the war between them, but the god of the west refused to hand the third blade to them. "fools like you who wield a blade to defend yourself as a weapon to kill - i will never give it to you."
fourth blade: 隠刀「牙」Komotō Kiba (Hidden Sword, Fang)
the poisonous ninjatō, handed to the shinobi of yamato. the clan of shadows and deceit. the great god taught them not to fight amongst themselves, but work together to fight off the youkai that wanted their heads. the blade that secreted a powerful poison, with only its wielder immune to it - and to all deadly substances that could kill them - they, along with the god, kept back the forces that threatened their lives. he looked to them and said, "stay with the people and protect them - you have skills that the untrained man does not. use them for good."
fifth blade: 鳴刀「棒」Meitō Bō (Sounding Sword, Rod)
the lightningrod nagamaki, who could channel electricity from the sky itself. though a spear, the length of the blade made it seem like a sword with an elongated handle. a spear of thunder and lightning, the noises it created were so loud and frightening that the monster seemed to scatter in its light. why would even the bravest of youkai run? "let my roar resonate within the meitō bō, let them know that I will come, and I will show these youkai no mercy."
sixth blade: 帝刀「屠」Teitō Hofu (Emperor Sword, Slaughter)
perhaps the king of all the blades, the sword of the emperor himself. how ironic despite it being one of the most powerful, it could never break its brothers. sharp, unyielding - it is the sharpest blade that can cut through anything. gifted to the emperor of the distant past, who respected the great god, he took pity in the king whose guards could not take on the monsters that targeted him. nishibyakko gave him the emperor sword for him to use, only the emperor and his future descendants. "slaughter your opponents, but use it to protect the people." never would he have foreseen that one of his sons would try to turn the blade against him.
god's blade: 天叢雲剣 Ame-no-Murakumo-no-Tsurugi (Sword of the Gathering Clouds of Heaven)
nishibyakko okami's greatest and most dangerous creation. made from the richest materials, clouds of takamagahara, and the blood of the western god himself, no youkai would stand a chance against it. at its best, one scratch would turn youkai into dust, sending them straight to hell. it remains the only the blade that can permanently scar and mortally wound a god. with the ability to connect to its wielders valor, the more determined they were - the more powerful their blade would become. not only this, but the addition of the clouds allowed it control over the four winds, making its power unrivaled. having fallen from heaven and swallowed whole by the cruel beast yamato no orochi, who vowed to keep the blade within its stomach - where without a wielder it would be a normal sword - the creature was destroyed by the blade of susanno, who retrieved the sword and gave it as a gift to the great goddess amaterasu to settle their age-old arguments. the blade, since renamed Kusanagi-no-Tsurugi (草薙の剣), has been lost to the gods. where it is now, who it is wielded by, remains unknown to even its creator himself.
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