Introduction





This page looks best on a 1920px resolution monitor and fine on tablets, but it is kind of broken on phones, (please use landscape on phone!) I'll try my best to make it look decent on most resolutions, but you probably know how it is. Q.Q

Trigger Warnings: Page contains themes of substances, depression, bigotry/racism, loss of life/loss of self, disabilities, and probably some others. Please note that themes and opinions of the characters may not reflect the opinions of the author!



Soundtrack:
❈ A Wish Beyond Time - Inuyasha OST
❈ May It Be - Enya
❈ Departure to the West - Princess Mononoke
❈ Up the Spirit Caverns Walls - Ori and the Blind Forest
❈ City Ruins - Nier Automata OST




An inky darkness hung over the forest like a thick blanket which not even the height of the midday sun could reach. Light was swallowed by the nightmare, and what was once the crown jewel of the Autumn Court was now corrupted and twisted. Shadows weaved and danced, slithering between twisted trunks and gnarled branches like claws trying to grab something, or someone. The silence surrounding the forest was unnatural and eerie, leaving one to their own paranoia and unrest. No birds sang, no critters stirred, there were only crumbling remains of life long since lost.

Sometimes, it seemed like the shadows whispered something in a warped language.

Strange ropes sporting paper charms which fluttered in the air, tied to the blackened, sundered trunks of the trees. Their leaves were a rich, bloodied crimson which swayed almost menacingly in the stale wind. From somewhere deeper in the woods came a hiss. Then a low, guttural growl. This forest was still alive, but it was warped, haunted, and cursed. Demons lurked in every shadow, creeping just out of sight. They watched. They hunted. Glowing eyes in the brush, increasing in number. The growling grew louder. Something was hungry.

As the path winded, there were more paper charms and knotted ropes, the charms sported symbols and runes of protection and warding against malignant forces. Eventually the path led to ancient, cobbled steps; timeworn and half covered by moss and ivy, yet still in good enough shape for use. They climbed up the mountainside, it was a slow ascent and at the summit, barely discernible among the blood-hued leaves, stood a lone torii gate; its vermilion frame faded, yet still proud.

The climb was long, each step sent pebbles tumbling, the loose stones clattering down the mountain. The climb felt endless, and the air grew heavier with each step. The shadows seemed to cling closer, tighter, almost choking. The torii gate stood proudly at the summit, promising sanctuary and of peace, even in a place so steeped in ruin. One of the only symbols of hope which remained.

At last, the gate was reached. The threshold crossed. Twin stone kitsune statues were at the entrance, guarding it, boring the same roped charms around their necks, they sat silent and stoic, their forms worn by time but still regal, still watching.

After crossing the gate, it was quiet, but not the same silence as the forest below, there were no more haunted whispers and watchful eyes around. It felt safe and serene, the temple, while aged and slightly overgrown, stood testament to its promise of enlightenment.

Here, it almost felt normal, the way the forest should. The trees were still sundered with crimson leaves, but the fireflies danced in the air, like small lanterns of light and hope. The nightmare's corruption did not pass through the gate, warded off by the charms. However, this was not always so, at some point the nightmare did seep through.

The temple that rose beyond the gate was not what it once was. Its majesty had been eroded by time. Blood stained the pale cobblestones of its courtyard - old, dried, but unmistakable. Telling an ancient story of tragedy and loss.

In the center of it all stood a lone kitsune, he turned his head - his eyes a sharp glowing crimson.


About Karui Yoru


NAME: Karui Yoru (Ka-Rue-Ee Yo-Rue)

NICKNAME: Karui

STATUS: Dreamwarden

SPECIES: Kitsune { Gelert }

AGE: 900+

BIRTHDAY: July 1st

HEIGHT: 6'4 / 183cm

EYES: Red with a slight glow

HAIR: White

ORIENTATION: Pan

PERSONALITY: Karui is a somber and quiet individual, largely detached from the people around him and as such he can seem anti-social, cold, and distant. While he defends the dream from the encroaching nightmare, he still sees the value in the nightmare – he believes it is important to keep the balance.
He still lives in the temple of where he grew up and lived from before the fall. A clergy of monks who embraced spiritualism and inner peace and none were more notable than Karui Yoru himself. He is intelligent and calm, his expression never betraying his true thoughts and feelings.

APPEARANCE: Karui’s skin is smooth and tanned with dark grey and black fur covering his back, legs, and top of his arms. He has a pair of long, pointed ears. Breaking up the black fur, are white socks on his paws and silky white hair that reaches to about his shoulder blades, usually done up in a ponytail tied with an aqua green ribbon adorned with bells. His eyes are a striking red which slightly glow in the darkness. He has nine, long flowing black tails tipped with white – however, he can choose to have fewer but will always have at least one.
He usually wears robes in patterned in a mixture of various white, blacks, and greys, with some aqua green and a little bit of red to break it up. There are several yin-yang symbols scattered around his clothing. His sense of fashion is meant to instill a calming feeling, matching his rather calm demeanor. He has an armored chest plate and armguards, showcasing that he is also always battle ready should things come to that.

Stats:



Strength
Average physically but has powerful magic.

Stamina
Can go days without eating, drinking, or sleeping

Intelligence
Very intelligent, able to learn and adapt.

Perception
He sees just about everything.

Charisma
A bit reserved and stand-offish.

Discipline
He has extreme discipline and is one of his virtues.

Empathy
Empathetic but will do what must be done.

Openness
Extremely shut off, impossible to read.



References






DESIGN NOTES


* Ethnicity: His ethnicity is this world's "version" of half Japanese and half Chinese. At the temple hwere he lived, you leave the past and what you were behind. He was raised by the monks, as all the children were, like a community.

* Equipment: Paper, Paper Charms, Prayer Beads, water gourds.

* Animal Form: A nine-tailed "silver fox" kitsune with a white chest and socks. He keeps his hair, ponytail, and cloak.

* Other notes: Having climbed the mountain before the Fall, and only returning a few years after, Karui often feels out of place in his own home. Everything feels strange and alien, but he has done his best to try and adapt. But how does one adapt to a god forsaken land ? Even his own brother was changed, having become more unstable and violent.

Likes & Dislikes



LIKES
⊹ Quiet and Tranquility
⊹ Solitude and Meditation
⊹ Keeping the Balance
⊹ Sunrise and Sunset
⊹ Reading and Painting
⊹ Blueberry Kakigori
⊹ The Sound of Bells
⊹ Xiheo
DISLIKES
⊹ Loud Noises
⊹ Nightmare corruption
⊹ Crowds
⊹ Clingy people
⊹ Starless Nights
⊹ Bitter Foods
⊹ Fearing the Future
⊹ Dogs

Friends and Family


Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed consectetur velit a mauris sagittis tempus. Curabitur dapibus, nunc non scelerisque vestibulum, est felis blandit dui, non condimentum felis erat vitae erat. Fusce sollicitudin consequat purus, nec porttitor neque ultricies a. Donec nunc magna, convallis sed mauris a, scelerisque hendrerit felis. Quisque eget urna metus. Curabitur vel imperdiet velit, vel egestas mauris. Proin fringilla lorem quis erat mattis efficitur. Proin non laoreet justo.

NAME

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed consectetur velit a mauris sagittis tempus. Curabitur dapibus, nunc non scelerisque vestibulum, est felis blandit dui, non condimentum felis erat vitae erat.

Fusce sollicitudin consequat purus, nec porttitor neque ultricies a. Donec nunc magna, convallis sed mauris a, scelerisque hendrerit felis. Quisque eget urna metus. Curabitur vel imperdiet velit, vel egestas mauris. Proin fringilla lorem quis erat mattis efficitur. Proin non laoreet justo.

Fusce sollicitudin consequat purus, nec porttitor neque ultricies a. Donec nunc magna, convallis sed mauris a, scelerisque hendrerit felis. Quisque eget urna metus. Curabitur vel imperdiet velit, vel egestas mauris. Proin fringilla lorem quis erat mattis efficitur. Proin non laoreet justo.



NAME

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed consectetur velit a mauris sagittis tempus. Curabitur dapibus, nunc non scelerisque vestibulum, est felis blandit dui, non condimentum felis erat vitae erat.

Fusce sollicitudin consequat purus, nec porttitor neque ultricies a. Donec nunc magna, convallis sed mauris a, scelerisque hendrerit felis. Quisque eget urna metus. Curabitur vel imperdiet velit, vel egestas mauris. Proin fringilla lorem quis erat mattis efficitur. Proin non laoreet justo.

Fusce sollicitudin consequat purus, nec porttitor neque ultricies a. Donec nunc magna, convallis sed mauris a, scelerisque hendrerit felis. Quisque eget urna metus. Curabitur vel imperdiet velit, vel egestas mauris. Proin fringilla lorem quis erat mattis efficitur. Proin non laoreet justo.








Memoirs





Here is one of the stories I've had in my head for a while, Karui's path within an overarching saga. The story won't end here and other pets will continue it. Please click the buttons above to navigate and read through.


Prologue: The Calm before the Storm. {WC: 4520}



Mist began to blanket the forest, heralding a morning soon to come. Birds began to sing - a cacophony of songs echoing from the treetops, loud enough to awaken those that lived within the forest.

The forest was vast, the crown jewel of the Autumn Court, was blanketed in a perpetual Autumn. Yellow, gold, and red leaves adorned the trees. Plants are everbearing its fruit. There was no want for food, magic was strong and abundant.

In the mountainous part of the forest was a cobbled road that led to a set of stairs, and at the top was a bright red torii gate. The stairs led to a pristine courtyard and a large monastery. Stone kitsunes stood and serpentine dragons stood guard around the courtyard and against the building. There was something that felt strangely alive about the foxes, each one bore nine tails fanned out elegantly. Sitting proudly, a rope with paper charms tied around their necks.

The monks were already up and about, each group doing their own thing. Some tended the garden, some swept the courtyard and cleaned the linens, some were practicing prayers or martial arts. Each monk was a kitsune with one or more tails, while most had between 2 and 6.

The number of tails represented many things, their power, their age, their hierarchy in the monastery. A tall silvery and black kitsune walked the grounds, a cluster of bells and incense in hand. The soothing sound and scented trail of smoke was intended to calm spirits and purify the area. The kitsune hummed as he walked, a slow chanting in a language only known by the clergy.

This kitsune was the only one with a full set of nine tails, and he was expected to be the next one to answer the ‘calling’. He passed by the young initiates training in martial arts, focusing on clearing their minds and breathing.

One of the boys paused, noticing the elder kitsune walking by during his rounds. His fur and hair were white, and he only had one tail. His focus easily broken by the elder’s presence.

ˮXiheo, focus, return to formation,ˮ The instructor spoke, but the white kitsune took off, rushing up to the silvery one. ˮXiheo !ˮ

ˮKarui !ˮ His voice called, catching up to the older kitsune and blocking his path.

The silvery kitsune stopped, curious eyes blinking a few times, his expression unchanging. ˮYes ?ˮ

ˮC-can I help you with the seals tomorrow ?ˮ

ˮXiheo, you're too young and inexperienced to be of help.ˮ The instructor spoke, catching up to the two.

Xiheo pouted, opening his mouth to protest but his train of thought faded when he felt a hand on his head, gently letting him. ˮHow else is he supposed to learn ?ˮ Karui asked. ˮOf course, you may join me… but for today, you must listen to your trainers… after your training and duties… Come visit me. You can help me make new charms tonight.ˮ

Xiheo looked up at him, blue eyes bright and happy and he nodded, the white fox rushing back to his formation, ˮYou're too soft on that boy, one might think you have a favorite…ˮ the tutor warned.

Karui looked at the trainer, then at the white fox. ˮHe's my brother… and he … he is different from most, he has more anger, perhaps what he needs is a more delicate hand.ˮ

ˮBut he may get in your way, or worse, ruin your seals. He can barely meditate… most others his age has already earned their third tail…ˮ

ˮWe all have our potential, sometimes we realize it later or differently than others,ˮ Karui pointed out, looking at Xiheo. ˮBut judging him on that will not help, I know he gets teased and judged about it.ˮ

The trainer looked shocked for a moment, a cold and uncomfortable sweat forming on his brow. He shifted awkwardly, he didn't say anything to deny it and that alone spoke volumes.

ˮHe will come into his own, have faith,ˮ Karui spoke, a longing look on his face. ˮThough, I had hoped to see him evolve before my calling…ˮ

ˮHave you heard it yet ?ˮ

ˮNot quite, but I know it is soon. I can feel it…there has been a shift in the winds.ˮ

ˮWe will miss you … him most of all,ˮ The trainer looked at Xiheo as well. ˮI must return to my duties,ˮ he bowed respectively, and Karui returned the texture, watching him return to his place in the courtyard, resuming the training.

Karui finished his rounds with the purification ritual, returning inside the monastery. He looked over his supplies, everything that he would need for tomorrow's warding strengthening. ˮAh… I'm missing Crystalflower root …ˮ he spoke, looking through jars and pots. Crystalflower was not something that grew in the mountain and thus, not one of the things that the monastery could provide. It grew in the lowlands. Towards the swamps. The monks often did trades with the local druid grove.

The mountain pass was quite the trek, so usually the monks would send a caravan down to trade items with the druids and with the city of the Autumn Court. Karui, however, was powerful and one with the land – and as such he was able to traverse the forest quickly with a series of portals.

He made his way to the tree in the center of the entire monastery - it was large and old - its bark gnarled. Around the trunk were thick ropes tired with protective paper charms. They were pristine and white, regularly replaced to keep the seals strong.

The way the roots and bark parted was almost like a doorway, he made some motions with his hands and changed in a language, within the doorway a blue portal began to form. It was large enough for one person to cross at a time. It swirled with energy and showed an image of his destination.

The kitsune stepped through the portal, surefooted and confident, a strange sense of magic, a gust of wind, and what almost felt like moving through water … and new sights, smells, and sounds filled his senses. He stepped out from a tree similar to the one at the monastery.

He arrived at the druid’s grove, unlike the stone temple, this grove was wooden homes embedded within the trees. They were similarly spiritual, he saw how they were practicing their magics, making plants grow or weaving vines.

He walked up to the botanist, being the druid grove, they have just about every planet imaginable growing. There was a druid at a counter, standing among dried bushel of herbs, she was mixing something together with a mortar and pestle, a young apprentice standing at her side.

Seeing him approach, the woman looked up and flashed a welcoming smile. ˮGreetings ! How can I help you ?ˮ

The kitsune's ears twitched a little, he had a moderate list of things to get. ˮCrystalflower root… and everything on this list, please,ˮ he replied, setting down a piece of paper. The woman looked it over and nodded, turning to her assistant.

ˮIke, continue processing this … I'll go fulfill this order.ˮ She spoke, leaving his side.

Ike nodded, the assistant moving in where she once stood and worked with the mortar and pestle. He looked around Xiheo’s age. His fur was mainly a light blue and peach, with green hair and golden eyes. ˮYou're one of those kitsune monks that live up the mountain?ˮ He asked.

ˮI am,ˮ he nodded, eyes on the young and curious druid, he probably only came up to about his shoulder at best. Ike had seen the monks from time to time, but never one that had a full set of nine tails.

ˮIs it true that … you can see the future ?ˮ he asked.

Karui shifted a bit to the side, weighing his thoughts for a response. ˮNo … I do not have the gift of foresight - there are some that have … the gift of some clairvoyance - but it is not an ability that I personally possess.ˮ

Ike nodded - the woman returning with various herbs, flowers, and roots in a wicker basket. Karui looked in the basket, making sure everything was in order. ˮHere, for the road.ˮ The woman spoke, handing him a smaller basket of blueberries. His eyes brightened slightly, a small quiver to all nine of his tails.

ˮYou didn’t have to give me this …ˮ

ˮIt’s nothing really - you aid us in protecting the forest, and the forest has been abundant ! Please, enjoy it, I know you don’t have much on that mountain … it is the lease we can do as allies…ˮ

Karui looked at the basket, and he bowed his head. ˮI will be sure to share it with my brothers and sisters,ˮ he spoke. ˮMany thanks to you both.ˮ

The druid nodded, and Karui took his leave, going the same way he came, through opening a portal within the tree. However, there were some things he had to get at the Autumn Court, first. Stepping out for the portal he arrived in a bustling city. The roads winded up the massive trees, wherein homes were intertwined in the boughs. In the center was the massive tree where the whole forest's roots connected.

The tree of Lysthander. The tree was ancient, some say as old as life itself. The willow-like leaves hung, draping over the forest. It was a mighty and beautiful tree, its roots weaving into the key lines and the very magic itself. This city was like magic made manifest.

He walked up to the markets; the druid grove paled in comparison to how massive this place was. Karui easily felt overwhelmed, people were walking to and from places and it was all he could do to not bump into anyone or be bumped into.

His ears dropped just slightly with discomfort, the faster he got what he needed, the faster he could get home. He walked up to a stall that sold pelts and other animal-based items. ˮI need kirin hair, rockbear fangs, and some blood from a celesdeer …ˮ

The man behind the stall gave pause, looking at the kitsune mink up and down. ˮThose are some rare items…ˮ he pointed out.

ˮI am aware,ˮ the kitsune spoke, his eyes on the merchant.

ˮLet's see… the rarity of those items, the difficulty of getting them, the–ˮ

ˮYou get the same price that I always pay,ˮ He interrupted. ˮIt is the agreement we have made, if you resist, I will have to appeal to the fairy king,ˮ he continued, placing a token on the counter. It was dark in colour and an intricate series of woven bark.

The merchant seemed to sweat a little, looking down at the token, he seemed reluctant, but then grumbled, taking the coin and looking through his wares. The hair was placed first, tied together with a band, looking almost like a bushel of tall grass. Then, he put down a wooden container for the teeth, and finally a small vial of golden blood.

ˮMy thanks to you.ˮ He spoke, bowing his head. He left the stall, getting a few odds and ends and some food, but he stopped when he saw a stall belonging to a winter fey. They were selling some sort of icy sweet treat.

‘kakigori’ the fey would call it, sometimes he would sneak here for that alone. The icy treat was cold, and thanks to the fey’s magic, never melted until eaten. It was sweet and delicious, something he could never get at the temple.

He looked at the stall, eyes scanning the treats being sold. The fey spared him a smile, leaning against the case slightly. ˮThe usual?ˮ She asked.

Karui seemed to jerk slightly with those words, did he really come here often enough for her to remember what he liked ? ˮYeah… blueberry…ˮ

She giggled, carefully filling up a small bowl with ice and topping it with blueberry syrup before handing it to him. Karui passed her some coins, it was his own personal funds since it wasn't for the monastery nor was it part of his duties. He sheepishly took the treat in hand, perhaps he shouldn't come by so frequently…

ˮMany thanks.ˮ He bowed his head, quickly leaving the stall and heading back for the tree. He pulled out the jacket of blueberries he was given, taking a handful and sprinkling it on top of the treat. It was perhaps a little greedy of him, but it was his favourite food, and he feared he may not have a chance later. He would just not take any when it came to rationing it out. As hard as that would be for him to say no to. He returned to the monastery, first heading to the kitchens to deliver the blueberries and a few herbs and spices. The rest of it, he delivered to his room. He took out the kirin hair, straightening it out nicely and hooking it to the handrail he had that was overlooking the courtyard.

Next, he took some other hair and reeds hooking them all together in a knot. He began the long task of braiding them into ropes, the multicolored strands making for a beautiful braid. But this wasn't just for decoration. These ropes would be part of a protective seal, to keep malicious spirits and demons at bay. The magical creatures and plants these items were from would increase the potency of the seals.

Hours later, he had made about ten ropes, setting them down in a line. Then, he began to crush the rockbear fangs into a fine powder with a mortar and pestle. Along with nuts, the crystalflower root, and some other items.

When everything was a fine powder, he poured it all into a ceramic jar with water and then began to mix it together carefully. Slow and steady stirs which were constant and meticulous. To finish off his concoction, he poured the vial of blood into it. He watched as the fluids inside glowed gold briefly, then everything faded into a dark, inky ichor.

Karui reached for one of his calligraphy brushes, dipping it into the jar and then trailed it over a piece of paper. He tested the consistency and colour, and it seemed to be satisfactory. He had made enchanted ink.

Just then, he heard a knock at the door. ˮCome in,ˮ Karui spoke, still testing the ink he had just made. After writing an ofuda charm, he watched as the ink briefly glowed gold and faded, not only instantly drying but also signaling that whatever spell he had use dhad taken hold.

He heard the door slide open, footsteps come in, and the door slide closed again. ˮKarui Yoru ?ˮ The voice asked, it was Xiheo. ˮYou said I could help you with your charms ?ˮ

Karui looked over at him and nodded, motioning to the seat opposite his table. The young fox smiled and nodded, white tail wagging a bit. His tail was tipped black, which Karui always found amusing, he looked like he had a paintbrush for a tail. It was the opposite of his own; black and tipped with white.

Xiheo sat down opposite him. Looking at the stacked piles of empty ofuda charms. He took one for the top and Karui passed him the pot, a brush, and the charm he had just finished. ˮI trust you know the words, but I already made one in case you need to copy it to make sure,ˮ he offered gently.

Xiheo nodded, studying his characters and taking the brush, making the same movements on the paper. Karui watched him, and the young disciple successfully made a charm. He smiled, tail wagging and proudly showing it to the older monk.

ˮGood job, thank you for your help,ˮ Karui said, taking some more paper and starting to braid it into diamond folds. The two conversed a little as they worked. Xiheo would mess up on a few of the charms, but Karui would never raise his voice or display any sign of being upset. He would simply encourage him to make a new one. Eventually, Karui looked outside, by now it was dark, and the fireflies danced in the night. Most of the monks had retired, only a few were still out - mostly cleaning up or doing some last-minute chores. ˮIt’s getting late,ˮ He pointed out, turning his attention back to his young brother before him.

Xiheo looked up from the charms, seeming to weigh his next words a bit. ˮCan I … help you tomorrow ?ˮ he asked.

ˮAre you able to get up before dawn's first light ?ˮ Karui asked.

Xiheo nodded eagerly. Karui was writing a few more charms, ears rotating a bit as he thought about it. ˮThen I don’t see why not… I will need a successor,ˮ he admitted.

ˮYou… think I could take your place ?ˮ He asked, seeming shocked at the idea - then looking back at his singular tail. He seemed ashamed of the fact that he only had one.

ˮEveryone here has the potential - they just need the drive,ˮ he admitted. ˮI can’t remain here forever, one day, I will get my calling.ˮ

ˮAnd if… I don’t want you to go ?ˮ

He let out a breath that almost sounded like a chuckle, gently petting him on the head. ˮNothing lasts forever… one day I must let go of my worldly bonds…ˮ he admitted, ˮAnd so will you.ˮ

Xiheo's ears folded back, his older ‘brother’ gently petting him and scratching his ears. ˮThat sounds… hard…ˮ

ˮIt's not supposed to be easy,ˮ he pulled his hand away, then began to pack up the finished charms. ˮNow, go rest, I'll see you in the morning.ˮ

Xiheo nodded, getting up and making his way out of the room, he bowed his head as he left, gently sliding the door back closed. Karui was alone and the place was completely quiet now. He cleaned his brushes and workspace, putting everything away.

Rather than sleep, the ancient Kitsune would find a spot to sit down. He put his hands on his knees and splayed out his tails like a fan, meditating throughout the night. It was just as restful as normal sleep for him and perhaps… he could reach enlightenment to what is keeping him here, why he hadn't been called.

However, the enlightenment eluded him, he was a little frustrated.

What more must he do ? He thought he was ready. He went dark back in his memory, to his own tutoring all those many years ago. His mentor was a gorgeous kitsune woman with golden fur, always reminding him to have patience… he had a duty here and would be called when it was time.



The next morning, he awoke from his meditation, opening his eyes. It was still dark, with only a hint of light over the horizon to show the coming dawn. It was the day to traverse the forest, to reseal any broken bones. Strengthen others and create new ones.

He collected the ropes and charms he had made last night; it would have to be enough to get the job done. His ears twitched with the sound of a commotion, the kitsune going off to investigate. The sounds brought him to a courtyard, where one of the older monks tightly held Xiheo by the shoulder.

ˮYou have duties today !ˮ She enforced, trying to pull him back into line.

ˮKarui said I could join his duties !ˮ He insisted.

Karui stood there, watching the struggle, when Xiheo noticed him, managing to wiggle out from the monk's hold and scamper to Karui, hiding behind him. ˮTell her !ˮ

Karui let out a sigh, petting him in the head. ˮI did tell him he could come with me.ˮ

ˮKarui … this is an important duty, you can't allow him to get in the w-ˮ

ˮHe won't,ˮ Karui interrupted. ˮLet's go,ˮ he announced, gently guiding him towards the tree. The woman let out a sigh as the two passed them. The kitsune opened a portal, coaxing the younger initiate to pass through first.

He seemed hesitant to do so, his ears folded back and his eyes low. ˮAre you sure I won't get in your way…?ˮ

Karui patted his head. ˮYou only will if you allow yourself to think like that.ˮ

Xiheo glanced up at him, Karui was always kind to him, but he was the only one who was. He nodded slowly, passing through the portal the kitsune had opened and Karui soon followed. The portal this time simply led to the bottom of the mountain stairs, bypassing the long and arduous descent.

Here, many trees and rocks and paper charms tied to them. Karui walked up to one, testing how securely they were tied. One by one they did this for hours. Replacing ones that were too worn, adding new ones, and fixing ones that were loose. They did this throughout the forest; however, they did not trespass in the swamps.

ˮWhy don't we protect the swamps, too ?ˮ

ˮIt has its own protectors, protecting the entire Autumn Court would be far too large of a task for us, it is better to protect smaller areas, so we are not spread too thin. Otherwise, some evil spirits may slip through our sight.ˮ

ˮSo… making sure we do smaller tasks well, instead of larger tasks poorly…ˮ

Karui nodded, wiping the sweat from his brow. They had been at this all day, the heat and hunger starting to get to them. ˮCome, I'll get you something good.ˮ He spoke, leading him into the kakigori vendor.

The winter fey looked up at him, sparing a smile. ˮOh, the guardian kitsune brought a friend today,ˮ she giggled cutely. ˮWhat can I get you ?ˮ

Xiheo looked over at Karui, who was looking away slightly, he could see some semblance of a blush on his cheeks, he then looked back at the vendor. ˮDo you have Black Currant ?ˮ He asked.

The woman nodded, making the treat for him and passing it over – as well as a second one - the telltale blueberry one.

ˮBlack Currant for you … and the usual for you.ˮ she smiled.

ˮAh – you didn’t need to give me one … just one for him was enough – and all I have money for.ˮ

ˮDon’t worry about it, you brought a new customer ! Besides, it’s a hot day and I know your type works hard… But no more freebies.ˮ she giggled playfully, giving him a wink.

Karui bowed his head. ˮMany thanks,ˮ he spoke quickly, rushing off, Xiheo gasping - running after him to keep up.

ˮThe usual, huh ?ˮ he teased him, grinning a big, toothy grin. ˮSo, you get these a lot ?ˮ

ˮIt’s hot and we’ve been working all day …ˮ He spoke in an excuse.

ˮYou know… you’re allowed to like things,ˮ he pointed out as the two sat down on a bench together. ˮYou don’t need to live every aspect of your life in complete neutrality.ˮ

Karui sat there for a while, his ears twitching a little as he thought about it. He was taught to be as detached - from people, from things. What was important was to maintain and keep the balance. Equilibrium. And to do that, you needed neutrality. It was a difficult road, one that very few could travel.

ˮIt’s my duty," he admitted. ˮYou’ll understand one day.ˮ

Xiheo was quiet for a while, glancing up at the older kitsune and then at the treat he held. Did he really have the potential to be as neutral and detached ? Although Karui was kind - he had also scolded him in the past, too and he had seen him treat the other initiates similarly. Though, most kept their distance from him due to his seniority as a means of respect. Still the young initiate thought he must be lonely.

ˮDo you like the treat ?ˮ Karui asked.

Xiheo took a bite and shuddered, fur standing on end. ˮIt's cold !ˮ he cried out, not expecting it to sting as much as it did.

ˮEat it slowly, small bites.ˮ He seemed amused. ˮBut I think it's perfect on a hot day…ˮ

Xiheo tried another bite, it was easier this time - it was sweet and refreshing - and he smiled a bit, seeming to enjoy it. ˮThanks for… taking me with you…ˮ

Karui nodded once in response.



- - - - -



The days came and went - weeks turning into months and Karui stuck to his normal routines and duties, it was the night of the blue moon and tonight he was meditating under the tree; the bright moonlight beamed down on him, bright enough to light up the forest in blue light.

Things were calm. Quiet. By now, everyone was asleep or meditating. Karui let out a gentle breath - he felt something, a strange pull … perhaps a voice ? It was faint but unmistakable. His eyes opened and he got up – eyes focusing higher up the mountains, at the summit.

He made his way for the mountain path without question and without a word - not even so much as a note, it was as if he was sleepwalking up the mountain. The path was long and windy - and on each side of it stood stone kitsune statues identical to the ones around the temple. They sat proudly, nine tails spread out like a fan - eyes ever watching ahead - ropes with paper charms around their necks. They looked almost alive.

Karui trudged the winding, steep, and slightly dangerous path - his steps were slow, steady up the steep mountain path. The trees were larger, older, and the mountains led up over the canopy of even the mighty world tree - giving him a clear view of the starry sky and full moon above. His eyes were dull as he walked - passing through more torii gates as if he was on a singular mission.

The force grew stronger, curling around him, leading him as if he were a dog on a leash, the call grew louder - as if the very land itself was speaking to him.

Hours later, the moon was at its pinnacle - beaming down light onto an empty stone surrounded by a pond - the stone was carved with patterns and swirls – all the fox statues sat around it, pointed towards this stone. He made his way to it - trudging through the ankle-deep waters to get to it.

The kitsune sat down, facing the path he had climbed - and once again, began his meditation, his tails fanning out like the many statues he had passed on his journey.

Time became a blur, minutes turn into hours, hours into days, days into years. He did not eat. He did not move. He did not wake. His mind cleared. He had been called.

Unaware that down the mountain, something terrible had happened.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed ornare velit sed dui dignissim, et vestibulum erat convallis. Nunc sodales nibh quis lectus faucibus, et imperdiet diam pellentesque. Vestibulum dolor est, suscipit ac ligula vel, rhoncus vehicula justo. Vivamus vel bibendum est, at elementum sem. Aenean dictum ante eu orci condimentum, vitae viverra lectus efficitur. In id viverra ex. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia curae; Nullam ut diam dapibus nulla lobortis luctus. Donec placerat tristique maximus. Fusce tempor tortor id auctor ullamcorper. Cras commodo nisl ut semper scelerisque. Vestibulum sem ex, tempus a rhoncus et, ullamcorper at ex. Cras faucibus justo sit amet bibendum maximus. Donec urna nunc, placerat non molestie nec, pellentesque nec orci. Praesent vel rutrum justo.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed ornare velit sed dui dignissim, et vestibulum erat convallis. Nunc sodales nibh quis lectus faucibus, et imperdiet diam pellentesque. Vestibulum dolor est, suscipit ac ligula vel, rhoncus vehicula justo. Vivamus vel bibendum est, at elementum sem. Aenean dictum ante eu orci condimentum, vitae viverra lectus efficitur.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed ornare velit sed dui dignissim, et vestibulum erat convallis. Nunc sodales nibh quis lectus faucibus, et imperdiet diam pellentesque. Vestibulum dolor est, suscipit ac ligula vel, rhoncus vehicula justo. Vivamus vel bibendum est, at elementum sem. Aenean dictum ante eu orci condimentum, vitae viverra lectus efficitur. In id viverra ex. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia curae; Nullam ut diam dapibus nulla lobortis luctus. Donec placerat tristique maximus. Fusce tempor tortor id auctor ullamcorper. Cras commodo nisl ut semper scelerisque.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed ornare velit sed dui dignissim, et vestibulum erat convallis. Nunc sodales nibh quis lectus faucibus, et imperdiet diam pellentesque. Vestibulum dolor est, suscipit ac ligula vel, rhoncus vehicula justo. Vivamus vel bibendum est, at elementum sem. Aenean dictum ante eu orci condimentum, vitae viverra lectus efficitur. In id viverra ex. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia curae; Nullam ut diam dapibus nulla lobortis luctus. Donec placerat tristique maximus. Fusce tempor tortor id auctor ullamcorper. Cras commodo nisl ut semper scelerisque. Vestibulum sem ex, tempus a rhoncus et, ullamcorper at ex. Cras faucibus justo sit amet bibendum maximus. Donec urna nunc, placerat non molestie nec, pellentesque nec orci. Praesent vel rutrum justo.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed ornare velit sed dui dignissim, et vestibulum erat convallis. Nunc sodales nibh quis lectus faucibus, et imperdiet diam pellentesque. Vestibulum dolor est, suscipit ac ligula vel, rhoncus vehicula justo. Vivamus vel bibendum est, at elementum sem. Aenean dictum ante eu orci condimentum, vitae viverra lectus efficitur.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Sed ornare velit sed dui dignissim, et vestibulum erat convallis. Nunc sodales nibh quis lectus faucibus, et imperdiet diam pellentesque. Vestibulum dolor est, suscipit ac ligula vel, rhoncus vehicula justo. Vivamus vel bibendum est, at elementum sem. Aenean dictum ante eu orci condimentum, vitae viverra lectus efficitur. In id viverra ex. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus orci luctus et ultrices posuere cubilia curae; Nullam ut diam dapibus nulla lobortis luctus. Donec placerat tristique maximus. Fusce tempor tortor id auctor ullamcorper. Cras commodo nisl ut semper scelerisque.

test story 2
test story 4






Ceremonial Masks



Rules:
1. Don't remove my name.
2. Link Back to me
3. Don't take a custom that isn't yours.




Acara || Aisha || Cybunny || Gelert || Ixi || Kougra || Lupe || Lutari || Usul || Varwolf || Wocky || Xweetok

Customs


Neomail me HERE to Request a Custom. Trades are preferred.
Note: Your design may be simplified !





Photo Album:






Art By Others



Unlinked = Offsite Artist







Farewell



It would seem our time together has come to an end, however, the nightmare still remains and I must tend to my duties. You are welcome back anytime, or perhaps you would like me to open a portal for you to leave safely ?





All art and writing are created by SACHA unless stated otherwise.

» Transparent images by LOLWAT

» Personality Stats Bars by NEX

» Prompt Story Box by LUNA

» Coding by KAIRI And NEX

» PAGE DECOR

The Dream Portals










LEAVE