New Vorelia II; Ascension and Apotheosis

[The Yaarou Clan]

[Continued From Here]

Four days had passed since the Western Isles.

In that brief span of time, New Vorelia had already begun to change. The arrival of thousands of Yaarou refugees had transformed entire sections of the Inuki capital into something almost unrecognizable. What had initially been temporary accommodations had evolved into permanent residential districts, each one carefully arranged to preserve the customs and traditions of a people who had lost their homeland almost overnight.

Yaarou banners now hung between buildings that had once flown the sigil of the Inuki. Traditional lanterns illuminated streets that had previously remained dark after sunset. Markets had begun operating beneath newly constructed awnings, selling foods, clothing, and artifacts salvaged from Qiyoto. Children who had spent their first days in New Vorelia frightened and disoriented now chased one another through courtyards while their parents attempted to rebuild some semblance of ordinary life.

For the refugees, it was a blessing. But for the Inuki, it was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the permanence of their presence.

The two clans had spent thousands of years developing independently, separated by geography, philosophy, and tradition. Yet now their cultures existed side by side, pressed together by circumstances neither had anticipated. And nowhere was that tension more apparent than at the heart of New Vorelia.

The Cathedral of First Dawn had been completely transformed.

What had once been the spiritual center of the Inuki Kingdom was now officially known as the Yaarou Palace.

The process had taken days of relentless work. The ancient religious icons had been removed from the walls. Sacred relics, prayer tablets, ceremonial weapons, and centuries-old depictions of the Inuki's celestial ancestors had been carefully catalogued and transported elsewhere. The great altar had disappeared. The prayer chambers had been emptied. Even the enormous stained-glass depiction of the First Dawn had been removed from the eastern sanctuary.

In their place came crimson banners emblazoned with the Yaarou insignia. Dark polished wood and intricate furnishings imported from what remained of Qiyoto filled the voided corridors. And the cathedral's sacred halls had been repurposed into audience chambers, offices, private quarters, and ceremonial spaces intended for their Xhi'on.

The architecture remained Inuki, but everything else was foreign. And the priests of First Dawn had not taken well to the change.

They had obeyed, but they had mourned in silence.

Some had stood outside the cathedral for hours after being forced to surrender the keys to their former sanctuary. Others had quietly removed themselves from the surrounding district, unwilling to witness the transformation of a place their families had worshipped within for generations.

But despite this, there had been sightings of Inuki citizens breaking out into protests. No rioting or violence or semblance of a seething rebellion. Nothing at all to convey any festering civil unrest.. Not yet at least. But resentment had begun to take root.

It lived in the lowered eyes of the priests. In the whispers exchanged between citizens during the uncomfortable silence that followed whenever a Yaarou delegation passed through the streets of New Vorelia. And beneath it all was the same unspoken question.

"..Just how long were the Yaarou going to stay here?.."

But for now, nobody dared ask. The answer, however, had already been decided by Raizen himself.. But the transformation of the cathedral was not the only thing weighing upon New Vorelia. Four days had given the city enough time to absorb the destruction of Qiyoto, but not enough time to understand it.

The Yaarou refugees spoke little of what they had witnessed. Some had lost entire families. Others had arrived carrying nothing but the clothes upon their backs. The few who attempted to describe the destruction often found themselves unable to finish their sentences.

Many of them witnessed the battle between Hiroshi, Bhalia, and the Nether Serpent upon the ashes of their homeland.. but even still, it was nearly impossible for them to comprehend what happened.

What they knew was that their Xhion saved them, and what the Elders of the Council relayed to them. And the only thing they've been assured of was that they were safe now.. secure. Everything else had been classified as matters of the Council.

The nuances were kept secret, as things often were beneath Yaarou jurisdiction. Their leaders understood that uncertainty could become dangerous among thousands of displaced people, and so the truth had been carefully divided into what the refugees needed to know and what they did not.

And among those carefully guarded secrets was the whereabouts and condition of their Xhi'on.

Her priorities were often kept hidden, even among their own elders and attendants. So it quickly became a topic of discussion when Rinnala had returned from the Western Isles with Elder Jhun and Elder Ayune several days earlier. Their arrival had initially been met with relief, until neither Hitomi or Servin were among them. And when questioned about their whereabouts or at very least an explanation for Sevrin’s absence, the two members of council offered next to nothing in response.

They did not describe the confrontation, nor did they explain what had become of Sevrin and the Western Encampment. Jhun, normally one of the most articulate and historically knowledgeable members of the Yaarou Council, had become almost unnervingly quiet. Following his return, he would spend hours alone within his chambers, staring through windows in almost a reflective trance that nothing could break but hunger and sleep.

Ayune was scarcely better.

The woman who had once possessed an almost inexhaustible reserve of composure had become visibly pale. Her hands trembled whenever the Western Isles were mentioned, and more than once she had abruptly ended conversations whenever someone pressed her for details. She even went as far as to appoint someone to take over her duties supervising restorative faculties within the clan.

It was clear to the initiated few that the two of them had been compelled to silence by decree of their Xhi'on, but that didn't keep rumors from forming.

Some claimed Sevrin had been executed for his traditional values and forthright opposition to Hitomi. His disagreements with the Xhi'on had been no secret, particularly following the mysterious disappearance of Elder Hayate, and many were quick to assume that Sevrin had finally suffered the consequences of challenging her authority. Others believed he had escaped, and perhaps joined forces with what remained of the Shi following the destructive power of the Nether Serpent...

But no one knew for certain. And neither Jhun or Ayune seemed capable of providing any clarity.

Their silence had created an unease among the Yaarou that had begun to concern even the Inuki. Particularly when neither Elder had been summoned to participate in Hitomi's return.

Commander Keiko however, did receive the order, and seemed to be the only person privy to what transpired during Hitomi's excursion overseas.

Accompnying her had been Mitsuko and a small contingent of Kurotori soldiers providing security around the New Vorelian hanger. And before long, all of their eyes were drawn to the clouds where the sound of her return was heard rolling toward the city, growing louder with every passing second. Soon the rotors of a black helicopter descended above, tearing through the cold mountain air as it approached the Aerospace district, surrounded by a small escort of Inuki aircrafts.

Commander Keiko stood closest to the helipad once the helicopter finally touched down. Her left arm was hung in a sling, while the other rested calmly upon the hilt of her blade as her training had so finely conditioned. Her expression was calm amidst the churning winds, but her thoughts were.. conflicted. Rinnala had been sanctioned to relay only that Sevrin was a traitor that contracted Hitomi's death. That their Xhion was alive and would be returning soon. But Keiko hadn't laid eyes on her since the Yaarou's had arrived in New Vorelia. She had been bound to bedrest by the sages on account of her injuries, but her valiant efforts in Qiyoto seemed to have earned her a sense of favor with her Xhi'on. And now that Keiko had recovered, she would do everything in her power to convey that her Xhion made the right decision.

“Eyes up!!” She belted to her soldiers as the engines gradually wound to a stop. “Here she comes.”

Then the side door opened, and a figure emerged. But the woman stepping onto the platform was completely concealed beneath a heavy black shroud that dragged along the ground and a hood extended low over her face. Barely anything was visible; no skin, no hair. The only semblance of her Xhion that Keiko could see was the crimson glow of her eyes burning beneath the darkness of her hood. But as she stepped forward, the commander immediately lowered her head to show reverence to her sovereign. As did every soldier present. None of them could see what had become of their Xhi'on, but what they did notice was the cobalt containment matrix floating only inches behind her.

Hitomi's first step from the helicopter was slow and carefully measured. Even with her head bowed, Keiko noticed immediately. The Xhion was careful to mask it, so Keiko couldn't tell if it was fatigue or injury. Whatever the case, it gave her cause to worry. But as Hitomi approached, the thought was immediately suppressed.

A soldier of the Kurotori did not question the Xhi'on. Especially not in public.

Keiko stepped forward and lowered herself into a formal bow. "Welcome home, Lady Xhi'on."

But beneath the hood, Hitomi's expression remained hidden.

“Commander..” She said finally, drawing a slow breath. Her voice was hoarse and quiet, but her tone was unmistakably familiar. “Take.. me.. to my.. palace.”

[The Yaarou Clan]

Keiko immediately straightened.

"Yes, my Lady."

The procession began moving through the Aerospace district, but it was impossible for Hitomi to cross the capital unnoticed. Word had already spread that their Xhi'on had returned, and within minutes, the streets surrounding the avenue had begun to fill.
Workers abandoned their stations. Merchants stepped from their stalls. Children were lifted onto their parents' shoulders. Priests emerged from nearby buildings, while Yaarou refugees poured from their residential districts to catch even a glimpse of the woman who had saved them from certain doom.

The Kurotori responded immediately.

They widened their formation, creating a broad corridor around Hitomi as they moved through the streets. Their hands remained close to their weapons, and their eyes constantly swept across the gathering crowds.

Yet despite the precautions, the people came closer. And to no surprise, the Yaarou refugees were the loudest among them.

Cheers erupted throughout the streets, some calling Hitomi's name in bouts of worship while others simply stood frozen with their arms raised in reverence, tears gathering in their eyes as they witnessed their sovereign returning only days after rescuing them from the jaws of the Nether Serpent.

For them, the sight of her figure beneath the black shroud was enough. Their Xhi'on had survived. And that was all that mattered.

But the Inuki watched differently.. and their expressions were far more subdued.

They did not erupt into jubilant cheers at the sight of the Xhi'on's royal procession. In truth, many watched with more caution than awe. The sight before them was strange enough without the rumors that had already begun circulating throughout the capital.

Rumors that had begun when their cathedral was transformed into a palace dedicated to a foreign power. Rumors that grew when thousands of those foreigners were granted permanent asylum within their kingdom before New Vorelia had even been given time to adjust. And now their mysterious sovereign had returned from an equally mysterious venture, concealed beneath a hooded shroud and surrounded by soldiers who appeared almost excessively cautious about allowing anyone near her.

Some Inuki lowered their heads when she passed. Others merely stepped backward as her procession passed them by. But every single one of them whispered among themselves:

“Is that really her?"

“..they don't belong here..”

"Why is she hiding her face?"

“Imposter..”

"What happened to her?"

Keiko heard their words, even if she pretended not to. But she was more focused on the cobalt matrix floating behind her Xhi'on like an obedient shadow.

The object made no sound. It did not radiate heat. It did not emit light beyond the faint crimson glow trapped within its geometric confines. And yet wherever it passed, the atmosphere seemed to change.

The air grew thinner. Colder. Even the sunlight seemed to bend around it, as though it were reluctant to touch whatever existed inside. Keiko couldn't explain it, but whatever Hitomi had brought back from the Western Isles, she suspected it was far more dangerous than any conventional weapon she'd ever seen.

Eventually, the procession reached the enormous doors of the newly renamed Yaarou Palace. And waiting just beyond the threshold was an Inuki attendant dressed in the formal white and gold robes traditionally worn by those who had once served within the Cathedral of First Dawn. He bowed deeply.

“Welcome to the Yaarou Palace, Lady Xhi'on." He said with a deep bow as Hitomi entered, but she continued walking as if he were never there. The attendant hesitated for a moment before following.

"If you would permit me, I have been instructed to familiarize you with the palace and explain the renovations that have been completed during your absence.”

No response.

The attendant glanced nervously toward Keiko.

Keiko immediately understood. "A map?"

The attendant blinked. "Excuse me?”

"Provide us with a map of the palace." Keiko gestured subtly toward Hitomi. "For now, she requires only directions to her private chamber."

The attendant bowed.

"Yes, of course." He quickly retrieved a folded architectural map from a nearby table and presented it to Keiko. "The eastern sanctuary has been converted into the primary audience chamber. The western wing contains the administrative offices, while the northern tower has been reserved for the Xhi'on's personal quarters. The former prayer chambers have been converted into—"

"Thank you." Keiko interrupted him gently. "That will be all."

"As you wish.”

As they continued deeper into the palace Keiko found herself studying the architecture of the building. The towering arches, immense columns, vaulted ceilings, The intricate stonework depicting angels descending from the heavens. The identity of the cathedral and everything it represented to the Inuki was practically engraved into the wooden furnishings surrounding her.

And yet its religious soul had been stripped away.

The distinction was impossible to ignore.

Crimson Yaarou banners now hung where sacred tapestries once rested. Ancient Inuki inscriptions had been removed from the walls and replaced with Yaarou calligraphy. Ornate furnishings imported from Qiyoto occupied spaces where generations of priests had once knelt in prayer.

The result was.. beautiful. But Keiko also found it deeply unsettling.

This did not feel like a Yaarou Palace. It felt like a trophy. Or perhaps a husk emptied of its innards and repurposed into something that would remain hollow no matter how many people crossed its gates. Even the silence somehow seemed different.

Keiko could almost imagine that the cathedral remembered what had been taken from it. But Hitomi didn't seem to care.

Her gait remained slow and measured as they proceeded through the building. Keiko walked beside her while Mitsuko and the Kurotori soldiers maintained their formation several paces behind. For several minutes, they traveled in silence until Keiko finally broke the tension.

"My Lady." She cleared her throat. "There have been several developments during your absence. The Inuki have begun preparing for their incursion into the Demon Realm."

Hitomi's pace remained unchanged but Keiko continued.

"Commander D'huro has apparently convinced several regional factions to provide additional forces. Recruitment parties have already departed New Vorelia on word of the Grand Luminary.” A brief pause. "Who, according to my sources, continues to deteriorate physically."

Still nothing.

Hitomi's eyes remained forward as they passed beneath another enormous archway. Keiko studied her carefully before lowering her voice. "There is another matter. The Assassin."

She said Hitomi stopped abruptly. So much so that Keiko nearly walked into her.

The crimson eyes beneath her hood were gazing up at the Inuki Altar at the center of the building, left untouched as she requested. Remnants of religious carvings remained embedded within the architecture weathered by the passage of time, yet somehow still humming with latent power

For a moment, Hitomi merely studied the glyphs in silence. Keiko followed her gaze for a moment before she persisted. "Rinnala has discovered more than we initially understood."

She said, reaching inside her coat and withdrawing a small leather-bound book. At first glance, the small thing appeared almost mundane. The cover was worn and dark, its edges softened from years of handling. But across the center, scarlet lettering shimmered faintly beneath the cover.

She opened it, and upon every page was a gallery of names, faces, descriptions, as well as the expected commission upon executing them. Some of the entries had already been crossed out, while others were marked with strange symbols.

"The assassin belonged to a guild known as the Bingo Knights." Keiko's voice lowered. "Rinnala has already killed several of them since our return to New Vorelia. But she kept one alive.. And they have already proven to be a fount of information.”

She said flipping through the book until she arrived on the page detailing Hitomi's name, and the astronomical dollar sign attached to her picture.

“This belonged to them; a ledger compiled of an extensive dossiers of dangerous entities. Your name is among them.”

Hitomi finally looked toward the book as Keiko continued.

“Rinnala surmises that Sevrin must have stolen billions from the Yaarou treasury to increase the bounty and commission assassins across all of Edo.” Her voice lowered. "Traitor.. he didn't simply want you dead. He wanted everyone to know that you were vulnerable. That the Yaarou were vulnerable.”

She hissed as she closed the book and noticed that for the first time since she'd begun speaking, Hitomi seemed to be genuinely invested in her words.

“..and to make matters worse, we believe the Bingo Knights are only the beginning. As the last surviving representative of one of Edo's three great shinobi regimes, you're no longer simply the Xhi'on of the Yaarou anymore, Lady Hitomi. You've become an opportunity.”

Keiko's expression became grim.

".. The Chikage and The Nakamura have apparently begun taking an interest..” Then, she hesitated. ”..as well as the Court of Storms.”

Those names lingered in the corridor. Even Mitsuko's expression changed. Both the Chikage and the Nakamura were esteemed, and dangerous Shinobi clans whose reputations alone shivered spines across all of Edo. But the Court of Storms were an entirely different threat.

They were not simply another clan. The Court was a power house of their own whose shamanstic influence had stretched across Edo for generations, and whose members were reputed to possess abilities literally bestowed upon them by the gods themselves.

Keiko waited for a response, but again.. there was none. Hitomi said nothing before she resumed walking. It was as if she didn't hear Keiko's words or simply did not care. The Commander stared at her for a moment before she too pressed forward. Unsure whether her Xhion was exhibiting arrogance, apathy.. or ignorance.

—

The northern wing of the former cathedral was considerably quieter than the rest of the palace.

The sounds of the capital gradually disappeared behind them as Keiko guided Hitomi through a series of increasingly secluded corridors. The ornate architecture remained, but the character of the space changed with every passing chamber. The public halls had been further decorated in Yaarou colors and trophies, while the private wing remained almost entirely untouched.

Tall painted windows overlooked the snow-covered peaks surrounding New Vorelia, depicting majestic illustrations of the Angel known as Moreaux watching silently as these Yaarou invaders passed beneath him.

Keiko scoffed lightly to herself.

The dreadful irony of a foreign sovereign walking through the remnants of another people's faith, building a palace upon their house of their worship was not lost on her. She could understand the cross glances and rotten whispered curling from the Inuki citizens. But Keiko and her people were children of war.. Tempered in the flames of loss and suffering. Her ancestors worked and bled for their legacy. They earned what they had, and fought and stole for what they did not.

When faced with the maw of certain doom, the Yaarou have done whatever necessary to survive. And this was no different. Hitomi had her reasons for occupying this building, and whether or not they would be received well were irrelevant. It was only the results that mattered.

“We are here,” Keiko said as they finally came to a stop before an enormous set of double doors. “These are your chambers, Lady Xhion.”

Hitomi raised her hooded gaze to the door and pressed her wrinkled, trembling hand against it. The door opened with nary any effort, and the room within was beyond enormous. A large bed dominated the center of the room surrounded by hand crafted furnishings and crimson Yaarou fabrics. A private study occupied one corner with shelves already filled with texts and tomes recovered from Qiyoto. And at the far end stood an ornate balcony overlooking the city of New Vorelia.

The room was originally designed to host the high priest of the cathedral, and the effort put into its transformation was nothing short of meticulous. The carpenters and architects charged with repurposing this chamber had been among the finest in the realm. And yet Hitomi didn't so much as move inside.

“If it is not up to your standards, My Lady—” Keiko began, but Hitomi raised her hand.

“..ease yourself.. Commander.” She responded before slowly moving past the threshold and gliding her hands across the velvet bedding. “..it is only temporary.”

For a moment, Keiko simply watched her. Carefully. Closely. She even exchanged a brief glance with Mitsuko as she wrestled on whether or not she should continue speaking. But Mitsuko could only offer her a half-assed shrug. Neither of them truly knew what to say or how to proceed. Neither of them were truly Elders.. judging Hitomi's temperament was an entirely different skill in itself.

Finally, Keiko cleared her throat and found her voice. “There is.. one final thing, My lady.”

But Hitomi's response was curt and immediate.

“No..” She said plainly as she reached the balcony. “..no more things.. I am tired, Commander.”

"Oh–yes, of course Lady Xhi'on. We will leave you to rest.” She said with a modest bow before turning toward the soldiers waiting at the door, gesturing for them to leave. But then, Hitomi turned slightly to speak again as the floating cobalt container settled in her hands.

“..you are to return at midnight.. All of you. Jhun.. Ayune.. Mitsuko.. Rinnala..” She paused for a moment to catch her breath. The effort required to speak was becoming painfully apparent. But beneath the fatigue and exhaustion, something far more fierce seemed to compel her forward.

Anticipation.

“I want you all.. here.”

Neither Mitsuko or Keiko gave a response outside curious expressions. But Hitomi smiled beneath the darkness of her cloak as her fingers traced the edges of the cobalt container.

"Something is coming." Her voice was hardly a whisper as the air around the object suddenly grew cold. "A change. A great change..” A low hum could be heard oscillating from the container, followed by a small crimson glow spilling from its core. “And when it arrives.. You all.. will bear witness.”

Her words sent a chill shiver down the length of Mitsuko's spine. "Uh, w-what kind of change?"

Hitomi looked up at her from the cobalt matrix, and immediately Mitsuko regretted ever uttering a word. There was something about the darkness beneath the hood that made looking at her a difficult task. It was more than simply intimidating, and it certainly was, it was bone chilling. Like staring into a yawning abyss and seeing nothing but two crimson, murderous pits lurking within.. Staring back.

She didn't want to know the answer. Which was fortunate, because her Xhion did not answer. Instead, she turned toward the balcony once again, looking down at the thousands of faces moving through the streets below. She saw the Inuki citizens and priests still gathered around the foot of the palace in some form of protest. And narrowed her gaze watching them push through Yaarou merchants and refugees trying to integrate their lives into a foreign world. Hitomi succeeded at salvaging what remained of her people.. and even managed to secure for them a place of sanctuary. Albeit only temporary, it was a place they could call home. But somewhere beneath that fragile peace that Raizen Inuki had promised, she could see resentment was already beginning to take root..

“Clear my palace." She said suddenly.

"My Lady?" Keiko questioned. But Hitomi was quick and short.

"All.. of them." She slowly turned toward them. "Anyone who does not share my blood.. is to leave these grounds by.. at once.”

Mitsuko's eyes widened. "Including the Inuki attendants and ambassadors?"

“All.. of.. them.”

Again, her answer was sharp and immediate. But Keiko's analytical mind couldn't help but hesitate. "My Lady, that may bring cause for concern to the Inuki's governing council—"

Hitomi's gaze hardened into crimson pits beneath the shadows of her hood. She gave no retort, but she didn't need to. Keiko simply lowered her head. "Understood.”

Hitomi turned back to the balcony and her voice dropped into a quiet whisper. "What happens tonight.. will be remembered.. forever." She paused, returning her gaze to the cobalt container. "..and so.. shall I."

Again, silence filled the chamber.. as did an air of genuine concern. Keiko stared longingly at her and Mitsuko did the same. But before either of them could make sense of the words or try and speak on their thoughts of worry and unease, Hitomi's withered voice came again.

“..leave me."

Keiko bowed. "Yes, my Lady." She turned toward the door and Mitsuko followed close behind. But before stepping outside, Mitsuko looked back one final time.

Hitomi stood alone beside the window, her enormous black shroud concealing her condition from the world. Only the crimson light spilling out of the matrix illuminated her silhouette. And for reasons Mitsuko could not explain, the sight reminded her less of a sovereign returning home, and more of something ominous preparing to awaken.

[The Yaarou Clan]

The Xhi'on's decree spread through the Yaarou Palace before the suns had fully disappeared behind the Strata Mountains. By midnight, no one born without Yaarou blood would be permitted beyond its gates.

And naturally, the order was received with confusion and discomfort.

The Inuki attendants who had spent the better part of the last week preparing the former Cathedral of First Dawn for its new sovereign were simply dismissed from their posts. Servants who had polished its marble floors, prepared meals, arranged its furnishings, and tended to the countless necessities of royal residence were given the same order.

Leave.

Even the priests who had been permitted to remain within the outer sanctuaries were ordered to vacate the premises or be forcibly removed. And there was no explanation given to the citizens of New Vorelia. There was no ceremony attached to the announcement. No explanation. No attempt to soften the implications of what Hitomi had ordered. Only a callous indifference that did nothing more than rub salt in a very raw wound.

The Yaarou had been welcomed into New Vorelia as refugees with open arms by their Grand Luminary during their hour of greatest need. They had been given food, shelter, medical attention, and protection. But they were supposed to be visitors here.. Yet, within days of their arrival, their sovereign's first order of business had been to establish a territory within the Inuki capital where even the Inuki themselves were forbidden to enter.

But the distinction did not end there..

Hitomi's definition of Yaarou extended beyond simple kinship. Only those born of pure Yaarou blood were permitted inside. Those whose lineage had become diluted through generations of intermarriage were excluded alongside the Inuki. It immediately created a quiet unease among the refugees themselves, particularly among those who had spent their lives being reminded that their blood was somehow less pure than that of their ancestors.

The Hexless had endured that prejudice for generations. And now another line had been drawn in the proverbial sand, and this one was even more narrow than the last.

For the Inuki, it felt like an invasion becoming increasingly difficult to disguise as humanitarian aid.

But for the refugees, however, it felt like the beginning of something else entirely. More like their Xhi'on was intending to build something far greater than a refuge or sanctuary.

Just days ago, many of them saw the Yaarou palace as a symbol of their survival. A place where the remnants of their civilization could exist without fear of being swallowed by the culture that had “so humbly” taken them in. Now, it was slowly becoming a symbol of division.

The resentment within New Vorelia remained quiet, buried beneath courtesy and necessity. But resentment did not need to shout to be dangerous. It lived in the lowered eyes of priests. In the silence that followed whenever a Yaarou delegation passed through the streets, and the way the citizens stopped speaking whenever they were in proximity.

The Kingdom had not fractured, but cracks had begun appearing upon the surface.. and what was growing beneath was something caustic, rotten.. and ugly.

–

Several minutes before midnight, Commander Keiko stood before the enormous gates of the Yaarou Palace.

The building looked almost unrecognizable beneath the night sky.

The great golden insignia of the Inuki had been removed from above the entrance. And in its place hung the crimson crest of the Yaarou Clan, illuminated by lanterns whose scarlet glow spilled across the snow like crimson moonlight. But aside from a few more lanterns hanging from its many windows, the mighty edifice was dark and still. Like a mountain of sparks and shadows.

Keiko was dressed in her formal military attire, and every seam on her coat was pressed with meticulous care. A collection of medals covered her chest, each one representing a campaign, victory, or sacrifice accumulated throughout decades of service to the clan. The insignias of her rank rested upon her shoulders and her ceremonial blade remained sheathed at her waist. Even her boots had been polished enough to reflect the surrounding lanternlight.

She looked down at herself and felt compelled to adjust the crystal claps upon her sleeves. It had been so long since she had worn these clothes that it almost felt strange wearing them. Especially here, on foreign soil, before this foreign building at this clandestine hour. It was an outfit she'd retired decades ago for the robes reserved for Yaarou Elders. And one she refused to don again, aside of course from royal ceremony or special occasion. It hardly even fit her anymore, but it was without question the finest ensemble she owned.

..even if she did forget how comfortable it was.

“Ugh.. I look ridiculous.” She lamented to herself.

For several moments, Keiko simply stared at the entrance of the Palace groaning and adjusting herself before finally approaching the building. But then, the enormous doors creaked open before she ever got close enough to knock.

A single Yaarou attendant stood waiting beyond them, dressed in a maroon suit so dark that it appeared jet black beneath the dim interior lighting. His posture was immaculate, his expression polite, and his hands folded neatly behind his back.

"Elder Keiko.” He said with a bow before locking eyes with the towering commander. “I welcome you to the Yaarou Palace.”

Keiko returned the gesture with a modest inclination of her head.

The attendant's eyes briefly traveled over her uniform and medals before he smiled. "The Xhi'on will be pleased. She specifically requested that tonight be treated as a formal affair..”

“I am aware.” Keiko said flatly.

"Yes. And I am among the few instructed to ensure that everyone entering the building tonight meets the Xhi'on's standards.”

Keiko glanced toward the enormous corridor behind him, before begrudgingly glaring down at the attendant once again. “..well?”

The attendant's smile never faltered as he calmly stepped aside. "Please, Elder. The ceremony will begin shortly." Keiko took an exasperated breath before she stepped past the attendant and the doors closed behind them with a deep, resonant thud.

–

Keiko was ushered through the many expansive corridors of the palace until they arrived at what was once the altar room. But now, it has been transformed into an echoing venue with an enormous table positioned along the eastern wall, laden with fruits, pastries, preserved meats, and crystal decanters filled with wine. The arrangement was lavish enough to resemble a royal banquet, yet there was no music, and no servants tending the walls or entrances.

Only rows of candles burning around an enormous open space in the center of the chamber.

The attendant guided Keiko toward the table, where she took her seat and glanced around the room. The food was still warm and decanters were still ice cold.. it was as if everything had been prepared for a celebration, yet the room felt more like a place awaiting a funeral.

“Where is everyone?” She asked. And the attendant answered plainly.

“You are the first to arrive, Commander.”

Keiko frowned. “..I see.”

She said staring now at the clock mounted above the eastern archway. It was a quarter till the hour, and if nothing else.. Keiko found it odd that Rinnala had not arrived before her, let alone not all. Among a million other things, she had always been punctual. But the attendant recognized the sudden dissonance in the Elder's gaze and temperament. And he bowed slightly before he offered clarity.

"Although, if you are concerned about your Shadow, she and Lady Mitsuko have been assigned another task."

Keiko's eyebrows rose. "Another task?"

“Indeed.” The attendant nodded. "But I fear that is all I've been instructed to relay.”

Keiko hardened for a moment as she studied the man before her. He wasn't military.. She would have recognized his face if he was, but she could also discern that there was no deception in his expression. He was calm, confident, and composed. Keiko exhaled through her nose and folded her hands in her lap. “Very well.”

The attendant approached the table and poured a glass of wine. “Wine, Elder?”

Keiko hesitated before accepting it. "Thank you."

He bowed. "The ceremony will begin shortly. Please, help yourself to whatever you like.” Then he departed.

Keiko watched him disappear through the doorway and the silence that followed seemed considerably louder than it should have been. No footsteps followed him. No voices came from the adjoining corridors. Not even the distant movement of servants preparing for the ceremony. The palace seemed to have been emptied deliberately, as though every living thing within its walls had been instructed to hold its breath.

Tick.
Tick.
Tick.

It had gotten so quiet, she was fixating on the clock.

Tick.
Tick..
Ti–

Keiko slowly lifted the glass to her lips, and found the wine was unnaturally sweet. She frowned, then took another sip before setting her glass on the table. She couldn't put her finger on it, but something about the room bothered her.

Perhaps it was the indecipherable weathered text along the ancient altar, perhaps it was the fact that she was the only one sitting in this expansive room and she still didn't understand why Hitomi had summoned her here. Or maybe it was a mixture of all of those feelings combined more..

Keiko looked toward the enormous altar occupying the far end of the chamber and found herself studying the religious incantations carved into the architecture. Those ancient glyphs and sigils almost seemed to shift beneath the candlelight. But when she blinked a few times, they were still.

Keiko exhaled.

“Get a grip.”

Before she took a sip of her wine to quiet the cluster fuck of inner thoughts.

Then the doors opened again, and two figures entered. It was Jhun and Ayune, and both of them looked magnificent. Jhun was in an elaborate black ceremonial robe embroidered with silver thread, while Ayune's formal attire consisted of layered crimson and white silk adorned with the insignia of the Yaarou Council on her back.

From the neck down, they looked like nobility. But on their faces, they did not look well.

Ayune looked pale.. Jhun looked exhausted. Neither carried their usual confidence.
They entered the room accompanied by another attendant, who bowed before leaving them alone.

Keiko rose to greet them. “Jhun, Ayune.”

Ayune managed a faint smile. "You look lovely, Commander.”

Jhun simply nodded. “Not a seam out of place.”

Keiko smiled lightly and gestured toward the seats. "Please."

They quietly pulled out their chairs and sat at the table. But for several moments, nobody spoke. Keiko looked at them both and studied them closely; Jhun's hands were folded upon the table, but his fingers were moving slightly. A hardly subtle tremor that he refused to acknowledge, let alone make eye contact. Ayune noticed Keiko looking and she nervously folded her hands together in her lap.

Keiko said nothing. Instead, she lowered her voice. “I've seen men return from the hells of war look healthier than you two.”

Both elders tried to humor her, but what they gave was more of a terrible imitation of laughter. Keiko continued, her eyes now lowered warm. “Are you both alright? Have either of you eaten since your return?”

Ayune smiled. "Of course." But her answer came far too quickly.

Doubt narrowed Keiko's gaze as she looked toward Jhun. "And you?"

"I am fine, Keiko.”

He replied flatly.. Another lie.

Keiko had spent decades studying the behavior of soldiers under pressure. She knew what fear looked like. But this was something deeper than dread or terror.

This was Trauma.

Whatever had happened upon the Western Isles had imprinted something inside both Elders that they had been unable—or unwilling—to escape.

Keiko leaned forward slightly and poured them both a glass of wine.

“Rinnala told me very little." Neither Elder responded. "She said Sevrin was a traitor.. but nothing about what has become of him.”

Jhun remained perfectly still. His gaze had been fixated on his hands, folded and trembling in front of him. But Ayune's mask of apathy waivered.. Just a tad. Her eyes flickered enough for Keiko to notice it.

“What is it? Say it” Keiko intoned. “..what has happened? Is this about the Bingo Knights? The Serpent?”

“...”

Ayune looked down, but Jhun finally raised his head to meet the Commander's gaze. And for a moment, Keiko thought she might finally get an answer. But instead, the Elder simply whispered. "We cannot.”

Keiko nearly snapped the neck of her wine glass with fingers. But she kept her composure. One look into his eyes was enough for the Commander to immediately understand the burden placed on their conscience.

Whatever Hitomi had shown them—or whatever they had witnessed upon the Western Isles—they had been ordered to silence. And were clearly more than terrified enough to comply without question.

Keiko leaned back into her chair and let silence claim the massive venue. She did not press them. She figured the act would have done more harm than good at this point.. Besides, she figured her Xhion would offer all the clarity she needed considering the setting. It must be why they were here.

The Commander looked again to the clock on the wall and saw that less than a minute remained. Ayune followed her gaze, and when she saw the clock, her hands began to tremble in her lap. Jhun noticed as well, and his face became rigid. Neither of them spoke. They barely even drew breath. Keiko slowly took another sip of her glass just as the clock struck midnight and immediately, the Palace bell rang. The sound reverberated through the cathedral's ancient stonework, traveling through the walls and columns until it seemed impossible to determine where the bell ended and the building began

And then — when it was done. And the final chime faded into the stillness of the dimly lit room, the shadows behind the altar began to shift. It slithered and snaked along the marble floor like spilled ink before gathering into a pool of sentient black. Ayune's breath hitched in her throat. Jhun's eyes widened until it seemed like they'd spill from his head. Keiko reflexively stood to her feet with her hand on the hilt of her weapon, only to then see a figure emerge from the amorphous nether of shadows.

It was their Xhion, wearing a thick ceremonial cloak embroidered with ancient crimson symbols along its fabric that Keiko scarcely recognized. And an ornate mask concealing every portion of her face beneath the hood, leaving only the blister of her crimson gaze visible within the darkness.

In her left hand was the cobalt matrix, rotating slowly above her palm with the Hedron still bound within its containment field. And floating behind her was Hiroshi's notorious weapon; the spear Shōsen Kōbari.