JPHiP Forum
The Hello! Project Fanfics => H!P Fanfics => Topic started by: Arcadia Victis on April 02, 2007, 02:02:40 AM
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First time trying to write something. Going for a sorta-fantasy angle on this fic, though it'll be fairly restrained.
Would like comments of any kind >_>
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[Prologue]
"It's cold."
Hitomi Yoshizawa shivered into her well-worn traveler's cloak as she trudged down a forest trail in the face of a howling storm. The rain fell in torrents all around her, quickly turning the dirt road into a soft and squishy mud. A bitter wind chilled the outcast to her very bones, the thick wool of her coverings providing no refuge. Yossie drew the gray overcoat closer to her body nonetheless. Every few steps, she looked behind her shoulder - she was hunted, and she knew it. Many men would die to claim the twenty talents of gold the Holy Empire of the Rose placed on Yossie's head, and some already had, she mused idly. The woman fingered a sheathed gladius she wore on her left hip unconsciously as she continued her journey beneath treetops that extended to the heavens.
Night was falling fast, and she quickened her pace accordingly.
She continued to follow the path in face of the elements for what seemed like hours before she reached a fork. Yossie grunted with displeasure as she wiped water droplets off her face and tried to read the crude, wooden sign that lay before her. It was already too dark to see the faded carvings clearly, and with great reluctance, Yossie opened her palm and chanted an incantation that summoned forth a pale ball of light. It glowed only faintly blue in the endless night, but was enough for Yoshizawa to get the information she needed.
<--- TO FALSTAFF 15 MILES | TO THE FOX AND HORSE PUB 1/2 MILES --->
Hitomi extinguished the light by closing her fist, and fell to her knees, exhausted. She wiped the perspiration that formed on her brow and picked herself up, wiping brown mud off of her trousers. The fatigue of her hike was eating away at even her endurance - every muscle in her toned body was screaming with agony, pleading for rest - calling forth the magic only multiplied the pain by a factor of ten. Her brain fought off the sensations as she took the road to the right, eyes ever vigilant for those who wished her dead, whether for greed or passion.
By the time Yoshizawa was at her intended destination, she was so drained that she almost forgot to put on her balaclava. Only after seeing the innkeeper, a burly man of middle years who liked his pork roast a little too often, welcome her inside did she pull the obtuse covering over her face. Anonymity was her only defense against legions of bounty hunters who lusted for her blood, and only a few people spoke to or questioned her when she wore the mask.
Unfortunately, the owner of the Fox and Horse was one of them.
"Come in!" laughed the man as he pulled his suspenders jovially. They slapped against his white silk shirt. "This is one hell of a nasty storm, don't want to be caught outside in this mess, eh?" Yoshizawa merely nodded as she approached. "Then again," reflected the proprietor, "the storm's not as nasty as Empress Fujimoto, so you might just survive if you don't come in." Yossie forced a laugh as she met the innkeeper. "Well, they can't all be gems," said the man as he scratched his bald head. "What's with the face mask?"
Yossie responded briefly. "I value my privacy, sir. How much for a meal and a room for the night?"
"You're in luck," said the Fox and Horse's owner. "We've got just one more vacancy. I'm a nice guy, so it'll be fifteen hachamas. As for feed, you'll want to talk to my daughter, over there at the bar." He gestured to a young girl who was handing out drinks and plates of food to three heavily-armed soldiers.
Hitomi kept a poker face as she paid the man, though she froze for a moment as she looked over the squad of troops. The latter's eyes sparkled when he saw the fat purse his new customer withdrew.
"Huh. If I knew you were that loaded, I would've asked for more." said the owner ruefully as Yoshizawa brushed past. He chuckled a little before heading upstairs to go to sleep, but not before handing Yossie the key to her room.
Hitomi took the farthest stool from the band of soldiers, who took no notice of the visitor. She got a sense of her surroundings. The inn was warm, well-lit, although the furnishings left much to be desired. Empty tables and chairs were scattered haphazardly, their occupants most likely slumbering in their rooms at this late hour.
Yoshizawa's thoughts were interrupted when the bartender slid up and spoke. "Hi there!" said the girl in a cheery voice. "What'll it be, miss?"
Hitomi looked at the innkeeper's daughter. She was cute, though her eyes were a bit wonky. The older girl gave a weak smile as she withdrew some silver coins. "Just some soup and a cup of your strongest ale, thanks. Keep the change." Reina pocketed the money, and headed off to the kitchen.
To Yoshizawa's left, the band of soldiers were having a loud, alcohol-induced conversation.
"So I ask again, why the hell are we out in the fucking wilderness chasing a has-been failure?" complained a red-faced, weedy looking private. He took a swig of his drink and continued. "Not even those traitorous bastards in the Lilac Kingdom want anything to do with Demon Eyes." At those words, Hitomi involuntarily craned her head towards the other patrons of the Fox and Horse.
"I know," said another soldier, thumping his fist on his lamellar armor. "We could be at home sleeping or out with the rest of the army, raping rebel whores and spearing their men. Why do we have to hunt a goddamn exile when all of our buddies are out having fun?"
The last man chuckled. "I don't think you guys remember what you were saying just a few months ago, back when Demon Eyes was the 'scourge of our country', when the Empress proclaimed that any general who defeated the crazy bitch and her troops would be offered the title of Imperator of the Rose Empire. Hell, I think our paranoid sovereign would give that prize to ME if I got my hands on Hitomi Yoshizawa."
"I reckon she's already dead, comrade."
"You're probably right. But it's our job as men of the Rose Empire to keep on hunting till we confirm she's gone. And that's the end of it."
The first soldier spoke. "Bah. I'm fuckin' tired of spending nights out on the frontier. Least we can spend tonight with full bellies and in warm beds." He chugged the rest of his beer.
"I don't think so about that last part. Orders are to keep patrolling the road until we're relieved by the other scout team."
A sudden voice in Yossie's ear startled the young woman, her heart pounding with terror. "Miss, your food is getting cold."
"Oh, I'm sorry." Yossie's long suppressed appetite now reared its ugly head, and she attacked the tasty stew with gusto. "My compliments to the chef," said Yossie good naturedly. Reina flashed a smile and left the room. As soon as she did so, Yossie finished her meal. The reconnaisance squad left the inn, chattering away indistinctly. Hitomi breathed a sigh of relief as she drowned her sorrows in ale. She staggered up to her room, and collapsed onto the soft cushions of a lumpy bed, her mind reflecting on the events that had driven her to become the hunted beast she was for what seemed like eternity before finally being taken by the bliss of alcohol-aided sleep.
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Holy cow, that was awesome.
It was like watching a movie.
I could picture basically everything.
Love the writing. Love the fantasy elements I can already pick up on.
Nice stuff, can't wait to see more. <3
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Ohohoho I like what I've read~ it's really well-written and it's already feeling epic and refreshing!
I can't wait to read more. Wonder why Yossie's being hunted... o_o;
And of course, mention of the Empress Fujimoto has piqued my interest XD
She'll be kicking ass, yes? We'll hear more from her, yes? :D
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Anything with Miki in it sparks my interest.
But that's a nice prologue, enough information to make me want to read the next chapter. Continue please :)
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Nice introduction, you've caught my attention.
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Hitomi looked at the innkeeper's daughter. She was cute, though her eyes were a bit wonky.
Haha, as soon as I read that line I was like, "REINA!!"
Interesting! I like this Empress Miki business... ^-^
Poor Yossie's worn out...can't wait to find out what happens next! :)
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Empress Miki...undoubtedly gettin' some royal gropage goin' on! :D So Yossi is some type of enemy to the Empress, eh? Sounds like she's a sorceress, undoubtedly a powerful one, if the Empress wants her head.
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Empress Miki!!!!!
That's all I need to get hooked on this ;D
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Yeah, Miki's going to be gropey and aggressive and well... Miki. I hope. I'm a bit concerned about my writing abilities when it comes to portraying characterization. Anyways, on with the show!
JFC - Your speculation is close, but not quite there. Miki does indeed fear Yossie, but it's for a different reason. One that will be explained quite soon.
Reader's Note: This takes place some time before the prologue. Also: typo-demons suck.
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[Act I, Chapter I - The Curtain Rises]
Nations are born from a cauldron of fire and blood. They are forged in the crucible of sacrifice and war, built on an eternal struggle between sovereigns and peoples. It is an endless cycle of destruction and rebirth - new states are founded upon the forgotten ashes of the old. This has remained true since ancient antiquity...
After the legendary Kingdom of the Flowers was sundered by the incompetence of its last hegemon, hundreds of contending successors warred for decades before Duke Tsunku of the Rose prevailed and united the continent.
But after Tsunku's reign of twenty years, his Empire of the Rose was again fractured, for he proclaimed that his lands and titles would be passed on to "the Ace" on his deathbed. As the flames of his pyre expired in the autumn breeze, so too did the peace and unity his subjects enjoyed. Tsunku's four children divided the Empire amongst themselves, each declaring that he alone was the Ace. But none of the four were strong enough to bend the others to submission. They instead founded their own independent kingdoms, and made war for centuries...
Hitomi yawned and closed the thick, leather-bound volume, not before dog-earing the page she left off. The book she set aside on a simple desk was titled "~A Briefe Historie of the Lilac Kingdom~", lovingly emblazoned in golden letters set against a dull brown background. Warm sunshine streamed in through the low windows of Yoshizawa's hut, casting a bright glow on the spartan room she occupied. The only decoration evident in the homey cabin was a sword that hung above an idle fireplace. On one side of the room was a straw bed - on the other, a table and a chair from which Yoshizawa rose. An insistent knocking on her door was the impetus for her to leave the simple comfort of her reading.
"What the bloody hell is it?" asked Yossie as she opened the door. She was irate at the interruption, but quickly changed her demeanor when she caught sight of her visitor.
"Yossie, you always were too uptight." beamed Makoto Ogawa. The younger woman wore the ubiquitous purple/white tunic of the Lilac Kingdom's military forces, and a grin wide enough to split her face open. She embraced Yoshizawa in a tight bear hug. "Stoppitmakocantbreathe" choked Yossie as the embrace pushed out the air in her lungs. After she was released, Yossie heaved for a few moments, savoring the fresh pastoral air.
"Whoops, always did forget my own strength," laughed Mako. "So, will you invite me in already?"
"Of course, anything for an old friend." Yossie stepped aside to admit her guest, who turned her nose up at the simple hut. The younger woman threw a leather satchel onto the bare bed before turning to her host.
"Business sure has been good, hasn't it?" remarked the soldier, sarcasm dripping from her voice. She took in the spare room with some merriment in her eyes.
Yossie blushed a little with embarrassment. "It sure has. Why, I just got twenty hachamas last week guarding some fat merchant type over to the next town. Seems like there's bandits and lots of em, though I didn't see any."
"Probably didn't attack out of respect for you, General. After all, you probably trained and led the poor bastards at some point." quipped Mako.
Yoshizawa gave a sad smile. "Yeah, ever since that idiot took the throne last year, it's been tough times for us soldiers. The best guys who ever followed me into battle are either begging for scraps or stealing for their daily bread." Mako nodded solemnly in agreement as Yossie continued. "You know, I'm really surprised none of the other countries have taken advantage of us, right when we're at our weakest. Ever since the army was gutted to 'show the world a good example', I've been counting the number of days the Lilac's gone without being invaded."
Mako sighed. Yossie now extended her index and middle fingers on both hands to make a 'V' sign, before putting them up to her ears and screwing up her prominent eyes. "USA-CHAN PEACH!" said the older girl, a bitter edge infecting her voice.
The soldier chuckled, and waited for Yossie to compose herself. "Yeah, our queen is a bit naive, but that just makes her endearing to the public."
"As well as to the Lilac Kingdom's enemies." Yoshizawa took a seat on the bed and reclined.
"Yeah, that's true." Mako's voice now took a decidedly serious tone. "This is what I wanted to talk to you about, my lady."
Yossie's expression narrowed. "You know as well as I do I was stripped of my rank and privileges long ago by that whore who calls herself Queen."
"Well now she's giving them back." Mako stepped toward her bag and removed a thick parchment letter, sealed with the coat of arms of the royal house. "This is your new commission, restoring your previous position as General of the Third Legion. You are being summoned to service again, Lady Yoshizawa."
"Sounds nice," said Hitomi, her face blank. "But what's the catch? Why am I being brought back to duty?"
"Well," replied Mako delicately, "it seems that our queen miscalculated. Scouts report that the Holy Empire of the Rose is massing her troops on our borders like they did three years ago. They're claiming they're just doing exercises along their side of the line, but our spies say Empress Fujimoto is going to make an all-out push to crush our Kingdom beneath her boot."
"She doesn't quite remember what happened the last time she tried that, then." remarked Yossie dryly. The previous engagement left hundreds of thousands of Rosians dead in the marshlands of the Lilac Kingdom, thanks to the superb leadership of the smaller state's military and the inherent quality of Lilac fighting men.
"Oh, she does. That's why the Empress is mobilizing now. Miki knows you and your colleagues who protested against the disarmament were purged from the army, and she reckons anyone who didn't complain is a suck-up who'll get trashed once it comes down to blows. And she's right, isn't she?"
Yossie sighed and buried her head in her slender arms. "I've spent the last year in this hovel, selling my sword to the highest bidder. I'm not sure I still have the ability to defend our country. Maybe if you asked earlier..."
Mako interrupted her. "Don't say that! Isn't the Lilac still worth fighting for, worth dying for? So you've been out of the loop, big deal. Soldiering's in your blood. You can't deny that. What would your father say, if he knew you were moping around here when the survival of our people is at stake?"
That last statement hit Yoshizawa. Waves of shame passed through the newly-restored officer, and tears threatened to form in her eyes. She got up and pulled her gladius off of the mantel, examining the heirloom that had been in her family for generations. It sparkled in the sunlight. Hitomi sheathed her weapon and took a gray cloak out from under the bed.
"Well then," smiled Mako, "let's go."
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Almost forgot about reader responses. Sorry >_>
FeverInducedMadness - There will indeed be more, and the magic will be introduced in the next part along with a pivotal character... :o
ferrar1 - Sure will, thanks. :)
rndmnwierd - I hope you find my story chapters as good as you did the intro. :)
orangesocks - You'll find out later today. ^-^
JFC - as mentioned previously, Yossie doesn't have magical powers... yet.
coachie - :heart: Miki. Can't wait to write about her later.
Anyways, how did you guys like the first chapter?
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Yay for H!P and medieval fantasy settings! :k-thrilled: :k-thrilled: :k-thrilled:
I won't be surprised if Empress Miki is a dominatrix slave driver. >:D
Write moar. ;D
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I'm glad that Yossie's rank was restored, and that Makoto has appeared as well. ;D
"USA-CHAN PEACH!"
Sayumi being an incompetent queen is funny, unfortunately for her subjects. Now I'm just imagining Empress Miki kicking Sayu all over the place if Sayumi were captured...
Oh Empress Miki! I can't wait until she makes her appearance. ^-^
Awaiting the next chappie... :)
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Sayu's the queen of Lilac and Miki's the queen of Rose? Right?
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Yay! Another awesome fic! I really like it so far! I'm a sucker for these types of fics, especially when there's some good action involved. Gotta love sword fights and magic, afterall. And with General Yoshizawa back, I'm enlisting! I'm really looking forward to this!
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Ah, so Yossi's actually from a dfferent kingdom than Miki...which would mean that Miki sees her at least as a military threat.
But after Tsunku's reign of twenty years, his Empire of the Rose was again fractured, for he proclaimed that his lands and titles would be passed on to "the Ace" on his deathbed.
That idiot. As a ruler, he sure was naive to think that they'd be able to fairly determine who "the Ace" was without him (unless of course, he died before he was actually able to make a choice).
Tsunku's four children divided the Empire amongst themselves, each declaring that he alone was the Ace.
WTF da Duke Soonk had kids? :o
The younger woman wore the ubiquitous purple/white tunic of the Lilac Kingdom's military forces, and a grin wide enough to split her face open.
...
"So, will you invite me in already?"
"Of course, anything for an old friend." Yossie stepped aside to admit her guest, who turned her nose up at the simple hut.
So Yossi and Mako were military buddies. Considering what was written just previous to and just after this part of the story, sounds like Yossi might have been forced out/fired/dismissed.
"Yeah, ever since that idiot took the throne last year, it's been tough times for us soldiers. The best guys who ever followed me into battle are either begging for scraps or stealing for their daily bread." Mako nodded solemnly in agreement as Yossie continued. "You know, I'm really surprised none of the other countries have taken advantage of us, right when we're at our weakest. Ever since the army was gutted to 'show the world a good example', I've been counting the number of days the Lilac's gone without being invaded."
Mako sighed. Yossie now extended her index and middle fingers on both hands to make a 'V' sign, before putting them up to her ears and screwing up her prominent eyes. "USA-CHAN PEACH!" said the older girl, a bitter edge infecting her voice.
The soldier chuckled, and waited for Yossie to compose herself. "Yeah, our queen is a bit naive, but that just makes her endearing to the public."
Ah, so the Lilac Kingdom is ruled by Sayu, and it would appear that she's either a pacifist, or she just doesn't believe that the threats from the other 3 kingdoms are that serious/bad. If she got rid of/reduced the kingdom's army, she's probably thinking that it would be interpreted by the others as a sign that the Lilac kingdom seeks peace and not war. Furthermore, this would then mean that Queen Sayu thinks that she can convince the other rulers to follow suit, and that all 4 kingdoms can then co-exist with one another peacefully. It's good on paper, but looking on it's practicality, Sayu's just leaving the kingdom wide open for an invasion.
"This is what I wanted to talk to you about, my lady."
Yossie's expression narrowed. "You know as well as I do I was stripped of my rank and privileges long ago by that whore who calls herself Queen."
"Well now she's giving them back." Mako stepped toward her bag and removed a thick parchment letter, sealed with the coat of arms of the royal house. "This is your new commission, restoring your previous position as General of the Third Legion. You are being summoned to service again, Lady Yoshizawa."
Makes sense that Yossi would have come from a noble family. Back during this time period, one would have to be to be an Officer (i.e., someone who can give commands, and not just some foot soldier who has to blindly take them). Stripping nobles of their ranks and priveledges would also make sense if the ruler felt someone was being insubordinate, but didn't feel like executing them.
"Well," replied Mako delicately, "it seems that our queen miscalculated. Scouts report that the Holy Empire of the Rose is massing her troops on our borders like they did three years ago. They're claiming they're just doing exercises along their side of the line, but our spies say Empress Fujimoto is going to make an all-out push to crush our Kingdom beneath her boot."
No shit she messed up. I wouldn't be surprised if Sayu was made aware of these events, and thought that her advisers were overreacting and she actually believed that the Rose troops were just doing exercises. With luck she wasn't that naive and realized that stronger measures needed to be taken.
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I'll do reader responses later, for now I'm kinda busy. Please comment if you like or dislike anything!
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[Act I, Chapter II - A Soldier's Return]
"The youngest son of Emperor Tsunku mourned his father's demise the longest; by the time he was prepared to assert his claim to the throne, his siblings were already sovereigns in their own right. His brothers sent many lawless murderers to take his head, confident that his demise would be swift. But Michishige fled to the wild southlands, where the local nobles took pity on his plight and proferred their fealty. With the support of these semi-barbaric chieftians, he founded the Kingdom of the Lilac, named for the flower that grew in such abundance in his new domain...
Several hours passed by the time Mako and Yossie walked into town. The sun was already setting above the western mountains, casting a darkening sky in shades of crimson and yellow. The two girls made their way through the winding, bustling streets - there was more than a little shoving and pushing as they tried to get through endless crowds of people. Yoshizawa's leather boots cracked against the cobblestones as she led Makoto towards their mutual destination.
"Where the hell were you Yossie?" growled the junior officer. The newly-restored General was haggling with a fruitseller over the price of a ripe tomato. After some rude gestures and language, the vendor agreed to part with his product for two copper coins. Both seller and buyer were reasonably satisfied, and left amiably; Yossie was munching happily when Mako caught up to her.
Yoshizawa pouted. "Hey, I was hungry. And it's Lady Yossie now, centurion." she added in a mock-serious tone.
"Till you get your title formally restored," giggled Mako, "it's still Yossie to me. Now come on!"
They walked for awhile till they reached the center of the city, the Lilac Forum. The public square was decorated along its border by neat rows of lilac bushes, white flowers blooming radiantly in fast-fading sunlight. As the pair of soldiers walked past a smorgasbord of monuments extolling the glory of King and Country, one statue in particular caught Yoshizawa's attention.
"When'd they put that eyesore up?" asked Yossie, pointing to it.
"Oh, that? Just last month. I remember there were a lot of cheers when the artist unveiled it." said Mako wistfully. The sculpture Makoto referred to was a marble portrait of Queen Sayumi Michishige, which depicted her in full regal attire. Sayu's statue was holding a bundle of lilacs and looked towards the dim sky with an expression that radiated childlike innocence - it stood out from the grandiose sculptures of previous monarchs that surrounded it, which uniformly depicted their subjects with martial pride.
Yossie was quiet. She didn't need to say anything, her friend could read the disgust on her face for what it was. Both walked on in silence.
They arrived at the spiritual and political seat of government for the Lilac Kingdom, a compact, circular building topped with a stone dome and supported by elegant columns topped with floral capitols. Engraved on the round roof were the words "THE SOVEREIGN AND COUNCIL OF THE KINGDOM OF LILAC." Yoshizawa walked up the steps, saluted the ceremonial guards at the door, and presented her papers. The two hardy, excessively armored men read over the documents and handed them back. They stepped aside, letting Yossie and Makoto pass through.
The room was already in an uproar as the two girls slipped in through the doorway. Shouts and cries filled with passion and eloquence echoed through the ornate chamber, running together in a cacophony of dissonance. Queen Michishige sat upon a brass throne directly opposite the entrance, while twenty advisers on her flanks argued over the rising crisis along the border.
"We cannot send our army!" cried one woman of many years, handsomely clad in a fine silk dress. "The Rose wants nothing more than a casus belli to strike us, and we cannot resist their inexorable power." "You speak madness!" responded a gaunt man whose tights and jacket hung limply from his slender frame. "Even if we do not act, Empress Fujimoto would still crush us beneath her numberless legions. Better for our Kingdom to die standing than on our knees." he spat venomously.
Yoshizawa clutched the letter Mako gave her tightly, so much that her knuckles whitened. She stepped towards Queen Sayu, cold fury burning inside her heart.
All noise in the room died when Sayumi raised her sceptre. She rose from her seat with great care - the ermine robes of state were much too large for her to move about comfortably - and gave a grave salute to Yoshizawa. The older woman bowed before the sovereign with gritted teeth; memories of the last year, of the shame and dishonor the general suffered for her advice flared roughly.
Sayumi walked towards the kneeling soldier with red and puffy eyes.
"My beloved friends and counselors," began the young queen, her voice quavering, "here stands before you one of the finest subjects of this Kingdom, and one whose loyalty and service I do not deserve." A tear ran down the monarch's cheek as she continued. "Last year, I berated our soldiers, and this one in particular, for their wisdom and their foresight. I called Hitomi Yoshizawa a monster, for her sound judgement that peace could not be enforced without strength."
The queen choked back another sob.
"I was deluded, all of us were. I thought that we could bring an end to the eternal war that has ravaged our lands by living as neighbors do. But too much blood has been shed already, and old hatreds will never die. And so, we stand here today, with the Empire standing at our gates, and our defenders resigned to disgrace because I put my hopes on a dumb wish. Can our soldiers, our countrymen ever forgive me? I fear I have damned them all."
Sayumi took her scepter and raised it lightly over Yoshizawa.
"Be thou a knight," whispered Sayu. The queen tapped Yossie on both shoulders with the golden rod. Yoshizawa handed Sayumi newly-drawn documents of nobility, which the queen gratefully accepted. She handed off the papers to a scribe on her left. "Rise, Lady Yoshizawa of Saitama."
Yossie rose to her feet, her anger subsided. "My queen!" she shouted. "All is not lost. We may yet survive this dark hour. The Lilac Kingdom will never fall before Empress Fujimoto. This I swear, on the name of the Yoshizawa line."
One of Sayumi's attendants stepped forward, and presented Yoshizawa with a feathered purple cloak, and a bronze clasp that depicted a bundle of lilac flowers held in the beak of an eagle. Yossie put on the ceremonial overcoat, and flashed Mako a grin. Yossie was back in business. The latter responded with a wink, and pointed back towards the queen.
Sayumi sniffled a little. "Will you accept the apologies of an ignorant baka, noble general?"
"If I didn't, I would break my duty, liege."
Sayu sighed. "Welcome back, Lady Yoshizawa. Your Legion is assembled at the old parade grounds. They're understrength for now, but our diplomats have arranged for some aid from the other countries."
"From where?"
"The Orchid Kingdom."
Yossie's blood froze. "You can't be serious. Those witches-"
"Are our last hope, General. They informed us about Fujimoto's original buildup, and offered their support. We can't very well deny them, as our army is in shambles thanks to my meddling."
"I can deal with not having enough men. I can't deal with having scheming Orchid magicians building strength to stab us in the back while we bleed against THEIR enemies."
"We have no choice. I have arranged for their representatives to meet us momentarily... and here they come."
Three indistinct figures strode into the room, a supernatural glow surrounding them as they glided in.
Sayumi cleared her throat. "General Yoshizawa, this is Lady Rika Ishikawa of the Orchid Kingdom."
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I knew it would be Ishikawa! I'm officially stalking this thread!
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RIKA!!!! Yossie and Rika interaction to follow soon?! :hee: yaaaay! :D
I feel for Queen Sayumi. She just wanted peace! Too bad badass Empress Miki won't allow it...
Hum, I keep on imagining Makoto wearing her outfit from Ribbon no Kishi while following Yossie around. :)
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On to reader responses! Yay!
wordsworth - Miki will be a dominatrix slave driver. And a violent one. >:D
orangesocks - Yes, there's going to be Yossie and Rika action later - it'll be magical in more ways than one. :heart:
rndmnwierd - Sayu and Miki are indeed the leaders of Lilac and Rose, respectively.
Blizzard - I like fight scenes too. :D Have to get through the exposition before I get there though.
JFC - Yeah, Sayu screwed up really badly. Sure hope Yossie can pull through. >_>
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It's Magical Biyuuden!!!!! (or at least magical rika for now)
Miki will be a dominatrix slave driver. And a violent one.
woooo~hoooooo~hooo~hooo~hooo :heart:
and also looking forward to YossieXRika interaction
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"We cannot send our army!" cried one woman of many years, handsomely clad in a fine silk dress. "The Rose wants nothing more than a casus belli to strike us, and we cannot resist their inexorable power." "You speak madness!" responded a gaunt man whose tights and jacket hung limply from his slender frame. "Even if we do not act, Empress Fujimoto would still crush us beneath her numberless legions. Better for our Kingdom to die standing than on our knees." he spat venomously.
Politics and bureaucratic squabbling suck, no matter what setting you're in.
Can our soldiers, our countrymen ever forgive me? I fear I have damned them all.
Well, at least she's willing to admit that she fucked up.
So the Orchid Kingdom is populated by witches, eh? And Rika's one of them, ehhhhhhh? IshiYoshi interaction's definitley going to be interesting, Wonder if Rika is the specific one that teaches/taught Yossi how to use magic?
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Next part's up. Comments, etc, you know the drill. >_>
This'll be a brief interlude and intro to everyone's favorite... BADASS MIKI. Probably not good, but I figure a little fanservice won't hurt as long as it keeps you guys coming back. :p Also, I'm hoping this will serve as an intro to magic in this fic, and how it'll work.
Whoops: reader comments will follow later. Also, please please PLEASE tell me if there's something I should change in this fic.
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[Act I, Chapter 3 - Birthplace of Nightmares]
"Prince Fujimoto, firstborn of the Emperor, established himself as the strongest of the pretenders. Claiming right of primogeniture and divine providence, he overawed the lords of the central plains. They immediately swore their alleigance to his familiar rose banner. However, Fujimoto was an inept and decadent monarch - many vassals of his father on the fringes of the Empire took advantage of the unrest and declared independence. Many rebels were crushed by the iron fist of the Empire nonetheless, each too weak alone to resist effectively. Seeing the folly of their division, the survivors of the purge rallied around the other sons of Tsunku..."
Ai Takahashi shivered involuntarily as she was led through a labyrinth of stone corridors by an imposing jailor. Her tormentor was an imposing black-armored figure, whose eyes glowed a violent red colour through the narrow slits of his helmet. Every action the man took was precise, fluid, and calculating; the monotonous click of his steel shoes against the floor echoed for what seemed like forever. Occassionally, the prisoner could hear voices cry out from behind the thin walls, which did nothing to muffle the noise. Her heart beat mercilessly against her chest and she broke out in a cold sweat; unconsciously, she pulled the tattered rags that remained of her dress closer. She hobbled on, trying desperately to keep up. Some part of her brain told her she would be one of the unfortunate, anonymous victims that haunted her ears if she didn't.
Eventually, guard and prisoner came to a stop at the end of a wide hallway, lined with brass candleholders. Dim light illuminated a fine rug that ran the length of the floor. "The Mistress awaits," growled the man in a guttural, distorted voice. He lifted a gauntlet towards an open set of double doors at the end of the passage.
As Aichan limped inside, she was greeted with a massive shock. "ITAI!" She fell to her knees and rubbed her tearing eyes. The sun was high and its light blazed through stained-glass windows that produced a dazzling radiance through the whole room. Surreal color and brightness burned her retinas, which wasn't that surprising; after spending the last three days in a dank cell, her vision had grown accustomed to inky blackness. After Takahashi recovered from the dizzying episode, she got a look around. It was fairly large; the granite walls were painted with scenes of lustful pleasure, depicting a continuous orgy of sensuous feminine forms.
"What do you think of my taste in art?"
Ai jumped as two black-gloved hands wrapped themselves around her chest. She snapped around to see the figure of Empress Miki Fujimoto, dressed in a revealing nightgown embroidered with rose decorations. Suddenly, the younger girl remembered just how close she was to the most powerful monarch on the planet; Miki was groping her breasts with one hand while the other was carefully removing her skirt.
The victim of Miki's aggressions goggled. And then pulled back. Before she could stop herself, she slapped the Empress across the face. As she looked on in horror, the sovereign merely rubbed the point of contact. Takahashi took two steps back before Miki responded.
"You're a feisty one, aren't you?" asked Miki rhetorically. She smiled lecherously at Ai.
"Who are you?" responded Ai with her own question.
"I am the Mistress. I am the lady of this citadel, and the state that supports it. I am the rightful sovereign of the Empire of the Rose, heir to the great Tsunku himself. I am Empress Fujimoto, and you will bow before me."
"Hell no." Ai spit on the cold floor.
Miki giggled in a high voice. "Foolish girl. Most of your peers would consider it an honor to even look upon my glory."
"My peers are free citizens of the Tulip Dominions."
At this, Miki's smile faded a little. She raised an eyebrow as she replied. "The lands you call the Tulip Dominions are by right of blood mine. Now kneel, commoner, before your Empress."
"Never!" Takahashi remained defiantly upright. This gesture was a mistake, and a bad one at that. Pain shot up the younger girl's back as Miki whispered ancient and malignant words of power. It was unbearable, but Aichan stood. Sweat formed on her brow and her face cringed at the strain.
"Impressive." admitted Miki, as she watched the young girl struggle against her powers. "But not quite there." Miki's eyes began to warp and change, until they became dancing motes of fire. As they did so, Takahashi felt an invisible force push her forward, and she caught herself. As soon as she bowed, the pain subsided slowly, her nerves still aching for a few moments before she could muster up the strength to rise to her feet.
"Why?" coughed Aichan weakly.
"Why what?"
"Why am I here? Why do your armies take my people from their homes? The Dominions have never done anything to the Empire, we want nothing but to be left alone in peace."
Miki smiled. "The better question is, why not? Why not enslave? Why not kill? Why not invade? Like I said before, your precious Tulip is by right a territory of the Empire, and one in active revolt." She raised her hand up in an single, elegant motion. "And those who rebel are traitors." The Empress closed her fist tightly.
"Now," said Miki, pointing to her helpless captive, "let me answer your inquiry. Quite simply, the lives of traitors to my authority are forfeit. They have surrendered their rights as subjects in turning from me; thus, I use them like cattle." Takahashi's eyes widened perceptibly at this statement. Fujimoto took no notice as she continued. "Those you claim as countrymen, you and all those who do not acknowledge me as Empress, are not entitled to any protection."
"But they're still people!" objected Aichan.
"Yes, which makes them that much more useful. I need them as resources, for labor, for their souls. I can't end this war without a steady supply of victims."
"The war will never- wait, what was that about souls?"
Miki gave a high, cold laugh. She gestured about the room. "Yes, this facility is dedicated to the harvest of souls. They power our magics." The Empress now lunged forward and pressed her lips on those of a surprised Aichan. Takahashi struggled fruitlessly against Miki's grip before the older girl finally pulled away. "But you, you intrigue me. Every other wretch brought into this castle begged for their worthless lives before I sent them off to be... processed. You will be spared for now." With a wink and a grin, Empress Fujimoto turned on her heel and walked out.
Ai Takahashi stood stock still, her mouth wide open with shock for some moments before she collapsed on the floor, crying with fear.
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Damn. Miki's frightening and I admire Aichan's bravery~ (I remembered the Ribon no Kishi musical again as I was reading! :3)... Um... maybe it's just the sap in me, but I do hope that Miki isn't all cold heartless bitchery. Maybe? :-[ Despite the ruthless exterior she's still an ole softie on the inside, right?
*headdesk* xD
Great writing as always :heart:
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Evil Miki is happiness. Or, well, sadness I guess. Whatever it is, I like it!
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oh Miki-sama you can use my soul anytime
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I also thought of Ribbon no Kishi as I was reading this chapter. :) soon as you mentioned 'black gloves' I thought of Miki in her Hecate costume. :heart:
After Takahashi recovered from the dizzying episode, she got a look around. It was fairly large; the granite walls were painted with scenes of lustful pleasure, depicting a continuous orgy of sensuous feminine forms.
:lol: I laughed out loud when I read this part!
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Next chapter's going to be a bit later, having some trouble trying to juggle around the development of subplots and stuff. Anyways, now for reader responses!
coachie: Yossie/Rika interaction's going to be pretty interesting, I think.
magicnumber: I'm wondering myself as to where I'll develop Miki's character. Will she stay as hedonistic and megalomaniacal, or should I try and give her some more depth?
rndmnwierd: Thanks! :D Yossie and Rika's coming up in the next chapter, trying to work out the dynamics of their relationship is where I'm a bit stuck.
orangesocks: That's what I was thinking of too. >_>
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EMPRESS-SAMA OSHIOKI KIBONNU!!! *OAD*
Wow, she IS evil. :o Almost makes me want to run away...until I remember how HOT she is, especially if I picture her in that outfit you described. :wahaha:
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Evil Powa Miki is coooooooooooool~ more more more! as for ai...i can imagine her shocked face every time miki makes a move~ shunned and cute! lol
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So, if Miki's magic uses peoples souls for power, can the same be said for Rika's? Just curious, I guess. I can't wait to see what you have coming for Yossui and Rika!
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I'm thinking Rika's people have found alternative ways to maintain their "magic batteries", so to speak. Using the souls of people is probably just faster and easier.
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Miki wearing black is always hot. ;D
Props to Ai-chan for her courage in standing up to the empress. (she even slapped her! but that probably turned the empress on even more :P)
I wonder what caused Miki to turn this way. Bad childhood? Tragic romance? ???
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I'm a bit dissatisfied with this chapter, but posting it up anyways.
As per usual, comments, et al.
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[Act I, Chapter IV - Herald of the Storm]
The ambassadors from the Orchid Kingdom had an exquisite grace in their stride, Yossie noted. When they came to a halt a few feet away from where Queen Sayumi stood, the three women gave a polite bow of respect.
Just as Yoshizawa opened her mouth to protest, her remonstrance died in her throat. The general found herself utterly speechless as she looked agape at Rika and her attendants. Their appearance was so bizarre that Yossie found herself lost for words. She recoiled in instinctive horror as she realized the bright aura the foreigners generated came from blasphemous sigils that revolved about their heads, some of which winked in and out of existence. The aversion was only deepened upon further examination - Yossie noticed all of them had marble-white skin and ice blue eyes that sparkled in the torchlight.
Rika was the first to rise from her salute. She wore a thin, revealing lace dress whose color seemed to be in a constant state of change. The diplomat brushed a strand of silver hair from her flawless face before she spoke to the queen in a melodic tone. "Your Highness," began Rika, "The Orchid Kingdom graciously offers whatever aid we may render you in your struggle against the tyrant Fujimoto. These are dark times we live in, Queen Sayumi, and only united can we hope to prevail over the Empire..."
Suddenly, Yoshizawa felt a warm scent in her nostrils, a heady odor of perfume that entered through her head and dripped down her spine. It relaxed the tense general, and she could feel her suspicion and xenophobia slough off bit by bit. A voice in the back of her head brought her back to full consciousness however, and she snapped out of her reverie with some shock. Yossie looked around the council chamber, noticing with vague terror that everyone else wore a pleased, satisfied expression as Rika continued to speak. With a single fluid motion, Yoshizawa's right arm flew to her left hip and drew her sword.
The light from the visitors reflected off the blade as Yossie flourished her weapon. She leveled the point at Rika, who turned to look at the sword now just inches away from her head. Everyone else in the room seemed oblivious to the standoff.
"Foul witch," snarled Yoshizawa, "I will tolerate no sorcery in the presence of my liege and sovereign."
Rika sighed in a bored sort of way, before waving her hand. Instantly, the smell vanished; the faces of Queen Sayumi and others in the chamber changed from placid delight to utter confusion. It was surprising, Yossie noted, that Rika merely continued to talk as though nothing had happened.
"My apologies. It was merely my intention to render this esteemed council more receptive to our prescence."
Sayu's voice betrayed no hint of her inner anger. "Be that as it may," said the young queen flatly, "I will tolerate no more use of magic. We will either converse with our wits intact or this meeting is over."
Yoshizawa sheathed her sword as the queen finished. "Your Highness, witness the depths of their treachery. They wish to hoodwink us, to use the Lilac Kingdom as a shield against the fury of the Empire."
The girl on Rika's right now flashed a glare at Yoshizawa, and began muttering under her breath. However, Rika turned towards her - the other girl abruptly ceased her incantation. "No, Erika. This common slime is not worth your hatred." Rika now craned her head towards the Queen. "This is an outrage. A vulgar soldier has no place in the business of nobles and kings."
Sayu fumed. "That vulgar soldier is General Hitomi Yoshizawa." she began in a cold voice. "And you will show her the respect due to a servant of my crown, Lady Ishikawa."
Rika raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Oh? Well then, Hitomi-chan," said the diplomat mockingly, "forgive me for mistaking you for a commoner. Perhaps you should ask your tailor to make sure your clothing matches your station." She looked derisively at Yossie's appearance; with the exception of her cloak, the general was indistinguishable from a simple peasant.
"Better poorly dressed than not dressed at all Rika-chan." snapped Yossie, referring to Rika's thin and immodest garb. The two girls stared daggers at each other, unblinking with mutual disgust.
"Enough." ordered Queen Sayumi. "Every moment we waste with pointless sniping is another moment that Empress Fujimoto plots the downfall of both of our nations."
"Sorry, Your Highness." said Yossie bluntly, though she continued to glare at Rika. For her part, the Orchid Kingdom ambassador turned away.
"You speak words of wisdom, Queen Sayumi. Let us return to the matter at hand, and away from these meaningless distractions." She shot a pointed look at Yossie, whose face was scarlet with fury. "As I stated earlier, it is only through unity that we may conquer the threat that we all face. Without our aid, I believe the Lilac Kingdom will fall beneath Fujimoto's heel."
Yossie snorted. "I fought the Empire's slave-soldiers three years ago. We crushed them so thoroughly that we couldn't find a place to bury all of their dead. We need no help from the likes of you, witch. Our army can stop them once again."
"Perhaps you didn't notice," responded Rika, "but your precious army has been all but destroyed." Queen Sayumi blushed with humiliation at these words, and looked at her feet ashamed. "And this time," continued the diplomat in an even tone, "Miki has new tricks to play. I doubt she will have much difficulty dealing with your crippled forces, Yocchan."
The way Rika used the dimunitive form of her name grated badly on Yoshizawa's nerves. She tried hard to keep her voice level. "What kind of tricks are you talking about, witch?"
"Magical ones."
Rika continued. "A traitor to the Orchid Kingdom, who shall remain nameless, transferred many tomes of arcane knowledge to the Empress in exchange for titles and gold. Fujimoto has instructed her commanders in the deepest, darkest secrets of magic, with which they have used to great effect. Already, the Empire of the Rose has annexed the Tulip Dominions using their newfound powers. You of all people should know this."
This was news to Yossie. She raged inwardly, frustrated with her ignorance created by a year out of command. However, she kept an impassive exterior, betraying no hint of her emotions. "Then why do you warn us of this, Rika-chan?" asked Yossie. "What does it matter to your masters if the Lilac Kingdom falls? There is no love lost between our countries."
There was a sigh before Rika responded. "If the Lilac is crushed, then the Orchid will follow. We offer our support in sincerity, and all you can do is suspect ulterior motives? For shame, Yocchan."
"I have had experience with your kind, witch." growled Yoshizawa. "Your people are a scheming one, and I will not see the Lilac Kingdom used as a pawn in your games."
"Then you will see your precious Kingdom burnt to the ground by Empress Fujimoto. Only with our powers can your country hope to stand against the Empire."
Yossie sighed. "Fine. What help will the Orchid Kingdom give us?"
Rika smiled. "The Lilac will receive the infinite power of the cosmos." She nodded to the girl on her left. "Greetings, General Yoshizawa. I am Lady Yui Okada. We three will tutor you and all other leaders of the Lilac military in the ways of sorcery and magic."
The Queen now spoke again. "Please accept my thanks for this generous offer."
General Yoshizawa was aghast. But, she reasoned, it was better to gamble with the Orchid Kingdom's inscrutable plots than to see her country reduced to ashes by a magic-wielding Empire. Nonetheless, she felt a lump form in the pit of her stomach as the three diplomats left. She couldn't quite put her finger on why she felt so uneasy, but her soldier's instincts told her something terrible was coming.
A storm was brewing on the horizon...
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JFC - Yeah, she's hot. And she'll rip your guts out of her chest if you let her. >_>
joyce - Glad you like the story. There'll be more to Miki and Ai later on plotwise.
Blizzard - There's the ishiyoshi. As for magic spec... you'll just have to wait.
wordsworth - I'm trying to work that one out myself. It'll be expanded on in later chapters, I promise.
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The whole perfume thing by Rika was rather underhanded, IMO. Considering the fact that Orchid was coming to seek an alliance with Lilac, she should have realized that such a tactic would undermine the chances of that happening. Then again, she probably was used to having it work all the time, and didn't expect someone to be able to snap out of it and realize what was going on. The Orchid people are probably accustomed to using their magic to help manipulate people to be more receptive to their way of thinking. They probably indeed seek to use Lilac as a shield against the Rose forces. With all of thier attention on their magic, it's possible/probable that they don't have an army of thier own to act as a physical force. That's why they need the alliance with the Lilac.
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That's a fairly accurate assessment of what's happened so far, although I'll not comment on the speculation. Still trying to figure out if Miki will be a psychopath or tragic figure in this story.
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ohh can i vote for psycho then, there's too much of a softie-miki ending :D
the orchid kingdom humbly offers... 3 witches to teach the generals in lilac kingdom, magic ?!?! only
damn how kind XD
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Wow, Rika witch "looks" damn creepy when I try to picture her after your description! Somehow reminds me of that woman on the World of Warcraft game package (never played that game)
Blue eyes.. ok, silver hair... errr, and white skin!!!! Our always tan Rika white version? It's hard to imagine.
Or is it only the magic that makes them appear this way? I hope so otherwise I'll just pretend they look like their Magical Biyuuden alter egos XD
Yui seems to be a nice down to earth girl, wonder how those magic lessons will turn out.
And who is the traitor from Orchid Kingdom?
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Heh, RikaYocchanhate! and Ishiyoshi name calling! ;D heh. Yossie's so kickass, picking up on Rika's tactics.
Hum...I also wonder who the traitor of Orchard Kingdom is... ???
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psychopath! ultimate power and evil for miki! lol~~ (but i trust whatever you decide of course, hehe)
i really really love the move made by rika with the perfume scent! and how it was done so publicly at the queen's court....this creepy-yet-in-your-face rika is definitely awesome! what made the whole scene better was yossi snapping out of it and pointed the sword at her....so cool and hero-like~ the putdowns between them were creative and funny!
arcadia victis, you really have good imageries in your mind...and of course a set of good writing skills to bring them alive here! keep it up! can't wait.. .
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Rika-chan no Majoko Biyuuden! Lol, liking this already.
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Long delay because I had to work out a general plotline.
I promise there'll be glorious violence and rabu-rabu later, but please bear with the numbing exposition. It'll set the stage.
Also: I crave acknowledgement. Leave comments and/or suggestions. The latter would be better.
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[Act I, Chapter V - Reflections]
Hitomi cut a rather dashing figure as she conducted an inspection of her Legion the following day. Newly clad in shining plate armor and riding astride a chestnut brown warhorse, the general looked like a recruiting poster for the Royal Army. The scowl on her face, however, disfigured her otherwise idealized figure.
The reason for the general's displeasure lay bare before her on the dusty parade grounds five miles west of town. Yoshizawa's Third Legion, or what remained of it, was assembled on the flat dirt plain, its many tall banners fluttering limply in a gentle breeze. Yossie rubbed the back of her neck with a gauntleted hand while the men and women newly assigned to her command mustered to attention listlessly, apathy glazing over their eyes. Their officers too, Hitomi noted sadly, were equally dejected – there was a heaviness to their cadence as they tried to get their legionaries into military order.
At last the troops were called forth. They slouched in their rows and columns, shields and swords and limbs dangling loosely from their body. Proud eagles topped the flags denoting each cohort, or subunit, of what was supposed to be five hundred men. It bespoke a sad irony; the gleaming brass seemed to mock the demoralized soldiers who followed the standard below.
The general could feel tears prickling in the corner of her eye. What happened to the brave, spirited legionaries Yossie knew just one year ago? She fingered the golden chevrons that adorned her pauldrons. They seemed to weigh slightly heavier than they used to. Suddenly, General Yoshizawa felt very tired, discovered a strange weariness that crept up from the stirrups of her horse to the top of her head. A gray sky hung oppressively over her as she slumped in her saddle.
Yossie's melancholy was abruptly broken by a voice behind her.
“It wasn't that great for those of us left behind either, my lady.”
Yossie stared off into the distance, not responding.
“Cheer up General.” said Makoto lamely. “For all of our sakes.”
The mounted officer wheeled her horse around. Mako stood there before her, carrying a letter bearing the seal of the Third Legion. It seemed like deja-vu from just a few evenings ago, except the courier was liveried in silver chain mail and dressed for war this day. Mako put a fist to her chest in a salute, which Yossie returned briskly before taking the papers.
“Thanks, Centurion. At ease.” said the general while her eyes passed quickly over the document.
“You won't be thanking me once you finish reading that, Yossie.” Mako shrugged her shoulders in resignation.
Yossie grumbled silently as she tore off the wax seal. Her aide-de-camp was right, nothing but bad news presented itself in the letter. The general gritted her teeth, trying to keep her temper under control. Again and again she read the parchment, her mouth dry with shock. Finally, she looked back up.
“Makochan,” began Yossie, “you've got to be kidding me. How the hell did the Third lose half of its effective strength in one year? Why do we have some units with more officers than legionaries? What the hell happened damnit?”
The centurion bit her lip. “Forgot a bit, didn't you General? A lot of the men resigned in disgust after you got kicked out.” Yossie rubbed her temples with her left hand, while Mako continued. “I almost did too, remember?” she added in a barely audible voice.
Yossie sighed. Yes, she did indeed remember. Memories bubbled up from the hazy fog of the past...
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The wide oak doors of the courthouse creaked open with a loud groan as General Hitomi Yoshizawa was led unceremoniously inside by a rather short balliff. The contrast between the two figures made for a rather comical scene; the jailer hurried along, trying to keep up with the taller girl's longer stride.
Yossie was livid. Every step she took on the polished marble floor echoed through the chamber with her anger.
“Slow down, General,” hissed Mari Yaguchi as she prodded Yossie along, or tried to. “I don't like this any more than you do, but making a scene won't help.”
The general ignored her advice, and stomped forward to the central podium, her heart pounding with rage. Numberless eyes peered at Yossie from the audience stands all around her. She was unfazed; she merely glared above her defiantly, as the presiding judge took his seat in the booth above.
The aged judge had a rather throaty voice, like that of a bullfrog. “This courts-martial is now in session. On this day begins the trial of General Hitomi Yoshizawa on charges of dereliction of duty and failure to obey lawful orders.” He turned his broad head towards the right row of seats. “Advocate for the defendant, step forth.”
Makoto Ogawa left her chair and stood next to Yossie. “Your Honor,” began the girl uncertainly, “no one here denies the factual basis of these accusations. It is true that Lady Yoshizawa refused to fulfill the Queen's command for deactivation of three cohorts in the Third Legion, but-”
“Enough, Centurion.” interrupted Yossie. “I am more than capable of conducting my own defense.” Mako looked a bit shocked. She turned to look at her friend and commander, whose eyes burned with cold fire. Even chained by the wrought iron manacles, Yossie radiated a hatred that profoundly disturbed the younger girl; Mako had known the general for nearly a decade and half prior, back when they were first enrolled as cadets in the Royal Army's prestigious officer corps, and never in all those years had Yossie ever acted so badly. Mako sighed quietly.
The judge raised a wrinkled brow. “Oh? Let the record show that General Yoshizawa has forfeited her right to counsel and shall conduct her own testimony.” A scribe on the man's left hunched over and scribbled the information as Yoshizawa began a long-delayed tirade.
“Since time immemorial,” growled Yossie, “the family of Yoshizawa has served the Lilac Kingdom with faith and honor. As you and the esteemed gentlemen gathered today well know, my esteemed ancestors were the among the first to pledge their loyalty to Prince Michishige's struggle against the injustice of the Rose Empire. Centuries passed and so the mantle of duty fell to my humble person to execute. This I have done proudly since the very day I was born on the beloved soil of the Kingdom.
I remember well the oath I swore on the sword that now hangs at my side. I pledged, like so many ghosts of past heroes in my bloodline, to uphold the Lilac Kingdom against all enemies.”
Yoshizawa's voice cracked a little, but she continued on.
“I have given everything to fulfill this joyous duty. I have sweated, I have wept, I have bled for the Lilac Kingdom in the endless war for the survival of our people and our country. On the altar of our great nation, I have sacrificed my mind, my body, and even my love to prove my loyalty and service in the Royal Army.
But these seem trivial in comparison to the costs borne by the common soldier. For his is the highest price; that of his life. It has been my greatest honor to lead our courageous volunteers into deadly battle against the enemies of the Kingdom. Each of them gives the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
And it is this reason that I refused the Queen's command. My oath of service demanded absolute commitment to the Kingdom. To dismiss these heroes of the Lilac in such great numbers would lead to the nation's detriment. Loyalty to the state precludes all other ties.”
“Be that as it may,” replied the judge coldly, “you have still failed to obey the command of the lawful sovereign. As such-"
"Lawful?" snarled Yossie. She wiped a tear out of the corner of her eye. "That fool may well be the Queen, but only by right of blood. Her incompetence and naivete will be the death of us all."
A sharp crack of a wooden gavel resonated through the room. "Silence! You do not deny the charges laid against you, then?"
"I do not." said Yossie.
"So be it. By the power invested in this tribunal, the defendant Hitomi Yoshizawa is hereby relieved of command and rank for the crime of failure to obey lawful orders. Further, the defendant shall be stripped of nobility and discharged from the Royal Army for dereliction of duty."
"If the General is to be discharged, I wish to resign my commission." said Mako, standing up with fists clenched.
"No!" cried Yossie as she turned to face the shorter girl. "The Lilac Kingdom cannot afford to lose any more good soldiers. For the sake of our country, you must stay in the Army."
"But-"
"No buts. If not for the Kingdom, then for the legionaries. The men will need leadership, and in my absence, you must provide it."
---
"General, you ok?" asked Mako.
Yossie shook her head. No, she wasn't ok. She had spent an entire year in disgrace and shame, acting as a lowly mercenary, while the Royal Army rotted from the inside out. Now she had to command the crippled, demoralized troops that stood assembled before her on the bare grounds in battle against the hordes of the central plains. If she failed, the Kingdom would fall.
An epiphany struck her. The weight of her beloved country rested on her shoulders, symbolized by the shiny chevrons that lay there. That was why they seemed so heavy; the responsibility the golden trinkets represented was hers to bear. But how could she do so, when the resources she had were so wholly inadequate and the challenge so insurmountable?
Yossie bit back her insecurities. She had to be brave, not just for the men she led but for the Kingdom she defended.
"I'm fine. Looks like we've got some work to do."
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I promise there'll be glorious violence and rabu-rabu later
WOO HOO! Glorious violence and rabu-rabu!!!! ;D
Yossie bit back her insecurities. She had to be brave, not just for the men she led but for the Kingdom she defended.
"I'm fine. Looks like we've got some work to do."
And THAT sense of "never giving up" is the sign of a true leader.
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And the fightback begins. I want more inspiring speeches in your fic, like those in brave heart etc :p
"Lawful?" snarled Yossie. She wiped a tear out of the corner of her eye. "That fool may well be the Queen, but only by right of blood. Her incompetence and naivete will be the death of us all."
Wow she lived even though she said that :o lol
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Your fic successfully transported me into another realm. :kneelbow:
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Yay for set-up! How many characters are you planning to introduce that make a difference? Biyuuden, (or rather, Rika and her sidekicks) Momusu, (In roles suited to them so far) former Momusu, (obligatory short person appearance) and who else?
You know what? Nevermind, I know you would just say wait and see so I'll save you the trouble of acknowledging my questions.
Anyway, set-up chapters are necessary to any plot and it did give some background, so it wasn't really mind numbing. More like mind servicing really. Or mind, uh, mind... It was informative...
Hope you update again soon!
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JFC - Yup. Looking forward to that. :D
ferrar1 - She did indeed live, for reasons to be explained later. :o
katatsumuri - Awesome, thanks. Hope you enjoy your stay. :D
rndmnwierd - I've got major characters down as follows: momusu, W, Biyuuden. Couple of cameos by other H!P as well.
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rndmnwierd - I've got major characters down as follows: momusu, W, Biyuuden. Couple of cameos by other H!P as well.
You had me at Haro! (Or W, but really...) With that little mention, you've gained yourself a follower. And also 120 exp.
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I like the atmosphere of this story, it's very captivating :heart: The battle seems to close now :o I wonder if more characters will be showing up soon?
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If your "numbing exposition" is this good, I definately can't wait to get to the action and drama!
Looking forward to the next chapter!