Ninjas! ( At night)

[Passionate Shadow]

Session Start: Sun Sep 22 02:21:57 2013
Session Ident: #At_Night
03[02:21] * Now talking in #At_Night

00[02:32] <@PS> t was a while since Masao had left taking with him Haruko's dishes on a tray. It was after all the late evening and the soft sounds of crickets filled the night air. The doors that were left open allowed a nice view in to the darkened garden. The room it's self was very neatly kept. Every thing seemed to have a place and it appeared as though even the place meant of objects on top of the dresser were purposeful. It was a frigid evening as the cold night air penetrated the now open room through the two large paper sliding doors. The bed had a plush mattress and lush well kept fur blanket, leaving a warm enticing sight for Haruko. On the night stand set a wooden brush and a comb along with three bands of raw hide. a small back book was left there too next to an ink tablet and brush. The book it's self had a band around it.
[02:41] <@Haruko> Haruko tried to be patient after the one seemingly sane person he'd met since this whole ordeal began took his leave. Common sense told him not to poke around, and to snuggle right under those warm, cozy looking blankets, and simply sleep until he was called for. After all, he would obviously be made to work in some form. People didn't buy others to keep around as lazy house guests. So he
[02:41] <@Haruko> should get some rest while he could. But as he climbed into the bed and pulled the blankets upto his chin, the combination of nervousness, and curiousity just wouldn't let his eyes stay closed. They settled on the book on top of that nightstand... and after a good half dozen times scolding himself not to touch it... He simply couldn't help it. He'd look, and then he could sleep. What was the
[02:41] <@Haruko> worst that could happen? He flipped to the first page with writing, and began to read.
00[02:53] <@PS> Haruko would find nicely written notes it seemed. At first they appeared to be a little confusing to one who was not familiar with the terms being used. It soon became clear that it was a journal of sorts detailing sorrow and feelings of guilt and regret. After Zetsumie had seen to his business with the elder's he returned to his own room to see his new brat toying with his book. "My, my you're a naughty one." he trailed softly as he stepped in to the room and closed only one of the doors. It was not but a few second the boy had even touched the book. "Give it here Haruko." Zetsumie said stepping over has he removed his over coat and set it aside. His now bare arms on display showed a few more nasty marred areas where the marks of battle left their visible scar. Silent reminders of mistakes past.
[03:00] <@Haruko> Haruko seemed to be staring at the small book with a serious expression, his eyes scanning the pages just as fast as he could absorb the words inside. Unfortunately, he didn't get far enough to realize just what Zetsumie had been greiving about, and when the door opened, he closed it immediately, looking the very epitome of a guilty youngling caught red-handed. "I'm sorry, I didn't realize..."
[03:00] <@Haruko> He trailed, knowing he should have stopped when he found out it was personal, but... well, he didn't have god-like willpower. Anyone would have been tempted. The boy sat up and held the book out willingly, his eyes clearly lingering on the muscled, and scarred biceps. "I didn't get far... Only a peek..." He offered, consolingly. Though Zetsumie didn't seem terribly embarrassed or angry.
00[03:08] <@PS> Zetsumie took the book and wrapped the bind around it once more before moving it to a much higher location atop a tall shelf the boy wouldn't be able to reach. "A smart child would have gone to sleep by now." Zetsumie scolded gently not sounding upset or angry. His voice was calm and almost soothing to hear. He seated himself. "Tomorrow we have a lot to do." He offered his voice seemed to trail a little as if he was in deep thoughts. "Harko you see that wooden object hanging on the wall? Bring it to me." Zetsumie said pointing to what looked like a rounded Fan with a beautiful night sky painting upon it.
[03:20] <@Haruko> Haru toyed with the edge of that furred blanket, running the soft strands between his fingers, and looking down, to make it seem as if he were very interested in the pattern. "... I did try... But I thought some light reading might help me drift off." For such a very large, and serious looking man, it continued to surprise Haruko that he didn't raise his voice, or snap at him. "What is it we
[03:20] <@Haruko> have to do tomorrow? I mean, if you don't mind my asking..." He hoped it wasn't more riding. u.u; But even moreso, he hoped it wasn't a dozen other worse, dangerous, demeaning things. He was bought, after all. But that thought was interrupted by the request. "Oh! Of course I will, just let me-" The boy hurried out of bed, the blankets ending up a rumpled mess, as he hurried to do as he was
[03:20] <@Haruko> told, lifting the fan up by it's handle, and trotting back, holding it out. "Are you warm? I could let some air in." He offered, taking a step toward the door leading to the garden, though he himself was just on the verge of shivering.
00[03:32] <@PS> Zetsumie watched the clumsy boy tumble about as he fetched the requested object. Although endearing Zetsumie's expression remained stoic. He held his hand out until Haruko placed it down. Gently He turned it over as if inspecting it. "Tomorrow you'll start by making one of these; This one was made by Masao." he said gently. "It'll be a very long while before your own will be finished but it will be made entirely by yourself." Zetsumie explained. One side had a very nice painted scene of a night sky reflecting over the water in the woods. "One side is to be left bare the other is to have a visual image that is pleasant to you... something of the outdoors." Zetsumie explained before setting it aside. He reached out then and pulled Haruko forward by the front of his sash. The sash it's self was un done and set aside. Zetsumie simply patted his lap expectantly looking at the young redhead.
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[03:48] <Haruko> "Making..." Haruko trailed, shaking his head back and fourth. "I'm sorry, I can't.... My hands aren't that skilled, I don't know how to do anything like that." He explained, apologetically, an apprehensive look on his delicate features. He didn't know how to paint or carve well enough to make something that would compare. "It would end up looking like a blind man made it, I'm sure of it."
[03:48] <Haruko> All the same, his gaze stayed on that fan, admiring Masao all the more for how lovely it was. A little sound came from his throat as Haruko was pulled forward, and he looked puzzled as his sash was removed, his bare chest showing just a bit before he brought the two halves of his robe together with his hands, blushing understandably. And even moreso, as he gingerly took a seat on Zetsumie's
[03:48] <Haruko> lap, his feet coming up off the ground a little.
03[03:54] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
00[03:58] <@PS> Zetsumie couldn't help but smile softly at the boy's innocence and naivety. "Oh Child it is a work of art that will take you a long while indeed. Worry not I will be giving you instruction along the way... I'm sure once it is finished you will be proud of your work." Zetsumie offered gently. He picked Haruko up under his arms and gently laid the boy over his lap before flipping the back of his robes up and over his pert rear. A warm, yet large hand was placed on the boy's lower back. He picked up the 'fan' and settled the smoothed wooden textured side down against the boy's pale rear. "I expect that in the future you will do as you are told and behave accordingly. Running around like that and hiding from me will only earn you punishment. I strongly advise that you keep in mind that truthfulness and obedience are always your best options with me. " Zetsumie explained only momentarily moving his hand to pet the top of Haruko's head in a mild form of comfort. "Should this sort of behavior arise again I'll not be so lenient with you. " Zetsumie warned.
[04:09] <@Haruko> Haru looked as it he wasn't so sure of his own skill, but knew better than to argue over it. "I hope so." He looked puzzled once again, as he was picked up, his immediate reaction, to hold that robe more securely. That, and offer a little squeak, and bring his knees together. But as he was layed over Zetsumie's lap, and his robes hoisted up, he looked over his shoulder with a pair of wide,
[04:09] <@Haruko> alarmed eyes, worry crossing them as he caught sight of the fan and heard it's intended use. "W-Wait, you don't have to do this!" He pleaded, eyes squeezing shut, as he tensed up, toes curling under, waiting for it...And only getting a warm hand resting atop his head. It made him blink in surprise, before he shook his head. "It won't, I promise! I was just afraid... So much was happening so
[04:09] <@Haruko> fast. I couldn't help myself!"
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[04:13] <Haruko> Haru looked as it he wasn't so sure of his own skill, but knew better than to argue over it. "I hope so." He looked puzzled once again, as he was picked up, his immediate reaction, to hold that robe more securely. That, and offer a little squeak, and bring his knees together. But as he was layed over Zetsumie's lap, and his robes hoisted up, he looked over his shoulder with a pair of wide,
[04:13] <Haruko> alarmed eyes, worry crossing them as he caught sight of the fan and heard it's intended use. "W-Wait, you don't have to do this!" He pleaded, eyes squeezing shut, as he tensed up, toes curling under, waiting for it...And only getting a warm hand resting atop his head. It made him blink in surprise, before he shook his head. "It won't, I promise! I was just afraid... So much was happening so
[04:13] <Haruko> fast. I couldn't help myself!"
00[04:20] <@PS> "Understandable little one." Zetsumie purred. "And to think, you could have weaseled your way out of this had you been asleep by now." Zetsumie said as he tapped the bare cheek gently before rearing back and laying down a few sharp swats. Zetsumie flicked his wrist and tightened his grip just before the paddle would strike flesh making the most out of little energy and making those few swats pack a nasty sting. Zetsumie didn't give the boy many stopping after just twelve strokes. He had delivered them quickly before moving to pick the smaller up off his lap and stand him back on to his own two feet before offering the implement. "Please return this from where you took it; Then come to bed child. " Zetsumie said gently. He wasn't heartless of needlessly cruel, however He felt that he needed to set a firm standard for the youthful red head. Lack of obedience was really not a good thing in this line of work.
03[04:20] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
[04:31] <@Haruko> "I'll sleep now!" Haruko continued to try and talk his way out of it, right up until the first swat kissed his pale skin. "I'm tired now, so if I could j-just lie D-OW!" He yelped, half out of surprise, and half becuase... well, it stung! More than he thought it would. He winced, and hissed, as he tried to sit still through that dozen, teeth clenched together, ankles crossed, and shoulders
[04:31] <@Haruko> stiff. He found himself panting by the end, a hint of a whimper on his outward breaths. If Haruko had the presence of mind to be offended, or pouty, he would have been. But just then, he simply looked overwhelmed, and unsure of himself. One hand went immediately to his stinging backside, and the other took the fan back. And only when the word 'child' hit his ears, did the smallest pouts cross
[04:31] <@Haruko> his features. He walked backward the first few steps, until he was sure he was out of Zetsumie's arm's length, then turned, and placed the impliment back in it's place. Clutching the kimono together with his free hand, he came back, and began sliding under the covers. He layed on his stomach, of course.
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03[04:33] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
00[04:36] <@PS> The next thing Haruko knew was Zetsumie scooping the lad up as he wrapped his arms around himcarefully pullinghim close and sharing his warmth with the smaller. "You're very cold." he said havinggotten up to close the door before hand. "I'll keep you warm tonight little one." Zetsumie said as he tugged the smaller in towards his chest keeping him protected.
[04:42] <@Haruko> Haruko all but squeaked in surprise as he was pulled into a pair of warm arms, against a surprisingly soft body. He'd have thought all those muscles would feel uncomfortable, but it wasn't that way at all. "... Thank you." Was all he could manage to say in return, hoping that keeping his head down, and letting his hair fall in the way would hide just how much his face was heating up and going
[04:42] <@Haruko> pink, as Zetsumie continued to surprise him at every turn.
00[04:46] <@PS> "You're very welcome, Brat."Zetsumie retuyrend before settling down to rest for the evening. Come morning poor little Haruko would moste likely awaken by himself. He would find a set of clothing laid out for him right on the edge of the bed. tappered pants and a thick gi top were sitting perfectly folder and a nice pair of straw sandals were right on top.
[04:50] <@Haruko> "Not a brat..." Haru had the gall to mumble, only for the fact that he was already half asleep, after such a long day. At first, he was only a bit close, but as the night went on, and his instincts took over, the boy would have fitted himself right against Zetsumie's body, one hand clutching his shirt, a soft cheek snuggled right upto his chest.
00[04:59] <@PS> Zetsumie was up and about at the crack of dawn. After tending to a few things he sought to prepairing breakfast. Once that was finished he gathered the meal to be shared with his new apprentice. He entered the room and set out the breakfast. He looked ove rthe boy's still sleeping form before leaning over and setting a gentle hand on the lad's forhead and pushed back his hair a little more. "Come one Haruko it's time to wake up." Zetsumie purred softly.
[05:07] <@Haruko> Haruko reached after Zetsumie sleepily as his new master slipped out of bed. And when he came back, the boy had slipped almost completely under the blankets, curled up and trying to hide in their warmth. Only the top of his head stuck out a bit. Long lashed eyes peered open slowly at first, but remembering where he was, fluttered excitedly, as he sat up. "I didn't oversleep, did I?" He asked,
[05:07] <@Haruko> gazing around the room. "I could have helped with breakfast..."It seemed above all else, he wanted to be useful.
00[05:16] <@PS> "I appreciate the sentiment little one, however today's not the day I'll be teaching you to cook. Today we have work to do. " He purred softly. "I'll be giving you a good deal of chores to start out with and you'll be needing your energy. Get dressed and join me for breakfast. You'll need to eat everything. " And truth be told if he didn't prepare the two of them a rather large hearty breakfast. Haruko was weak for the most part and Zetsumie knew he was most likely malnourished and starting off with training on the first day wouldn't be too useful. Tedious tiresome chores would certainly help whip the boy in to better shape. "You and I will be seeing the elders this evening... It is important that you do not speak unless spoken to... " Zetsumie offered. "We'll go over the rules later on tonight... you'll be wearing those." Zetsumie pointed to a set of pure white simple ribs hanging in front of the closet.
[05:27] <@Haruko> "I know how to cook, a little..." He offered, grabbing up the bundle of clothes, and holding them to his chest, looking left and right, before realizing there was no screen to change behind. "Would you mind looking..." He pointed to the opposite side of the room, clutching the clothes to him as if he were already quite nude. Haru was sure he'd want to eat everything. He was pretty hungry,
[05:27] <@Haruko> even though they'd fed him more for last night's meal than the people holding him before had in a day. As he turned the other way, only offering his back side to zetsumie, should he choose to look, he asked, "... but why? Aren't you allowed to have me? ... Can they send me away?" He added, after a moment's hesitation, pulling on his pants first. He really didn't want to be 'returned'.
00[05:33] <@PS> "Should the elder's not approve of my choice you will not be sent away... what may happen I can not truly say for certain my self that is a decision that is entirely up to the elder's dissension... I'm sure that if you work hard at the tasks given to you and that you behave yourself and do as you are told there should be no problem with your judgment session this evening... You will be donning funeral garb. Don't let it scare you though... I do not believe the elders to be so cruel as to burry a child as yourself with out reason. " Just to spite the small runt Zetsumie took particular interest in eyeing him over. "Your modesty is amusing... perhaps soon enough you may learn, just how easily privileges such as clothing can be taken away. " He offered. "Tell me... how do you feel about your new life so far?"
[05:47] <@Haruko> Haruko pulled his top on next, fastening the sash around it tightly, and tying it into place, before he turned around, just at the mention of burrying him. A noticable flash of horror passed his features, which he couldn't manage to hold back. Now he was sure, no matter what the task, he'd work his hardest at it, and at obeying. He was very fond of clothes. u///u "I'll try not to be but...
[05:47] <@Haruko> well... wouldn't you be scared?" He asked, sitting down to the meal in front of him. "If I'm honest... I'm afraid. I don't know what's waiting for me, or what kind of life I'll live. I didn't have much just a short time ago, and I'm grateful to you for taking me away from those people, but... well, I can't help but miss what I had before." He was a thoughtful youth, and tended to consider
[05:47] <@Haruko> his words carefully, when he had the chance, making them come a tad slowly as he spoke. Though when he didn't, they were far from eloquent. Particularly when he was heated. "... Not that I'm not thankful to be here."
00[05:56] <@PS> Zetsumie nodded gently in response. "I was nervous and frightened I'll admit. " Zetsumie offered. "I promise I won't let anything bad happen to you... you are my responsibility and I've taken it to heart." Zetsumie offered softly. " No one will hurt you while I'm around. " Zetsumie said sounding rather sure of himself. " Not a soul. " he added in as if affirming his statement. "I'll tell you everything you need to know when the times comes. You'll do fine it is nothing for you to worry about. Though they may be passing judge meant upon what you do it is ultimately myself who will pay the price should their scrutiny turn up that their standards are not met." Zetsumie explained softly. "Look forward to meeting the elders this evening- Think of it as a welcome home ceremony held in your honor. Every one waiting to see you. A special time to be regarded with honor and pleasantries. " Zetsumie offered doing his best to set the boy's mind at ease. "Sit and eat... you will need your strength little one; by the time the day's done you will be exhausted. "
[06:03] <@Haruko> Haruko found those words settled somewhere in the butterfly-filled pit of his stomach, feeling warm, and settling, cutting his anxieties in half immediately. Though one worry still remained, lingering in his mind. "... What will happen to you if they think I'm not good enough?" The last thing he wanted was someone else to be hurt because of his own shortcomings. And though a welcoming ceremony
[06:03] <@Haruko> sounded nice enough, he wasn't the absolute best at meeting new people, let alone having them all staring at him like some sort of street performer. "I'll do my best not to let you down." Haruko said, an oddly serious tone and expression from the normally soft-looking youth. And of course, he sat, and began to eat, practically inhaling his food.
00[06:10] <@PS> "That is for my self alone to deal with. I understand that when I make mistakes there are consequences," Zetsumie said simply as he picked up a set of chopsticks not seeming the least bit perturbed. "I appreciate your enthusiasm and willingness little one- You just worry about being you." Zetsumie said gently." He'd been informing the smaller of what would happen later so it wouldn't come as a big surprise and the poor thing would work himself up. He worked slowly on his meal observing quietly the boy before him making mental notes of what appeared to him to be what the lad favored in the types of food set out before the two of them. "I think a lesson or two in table manners will go nicely when I start teaching you how to cook." Zetsumie offered softly and even smiled at the smaller trying to appear cheerful about the idea.
[06:23] <@Haruko> Haruko thought that was easier said than done. How was he supposed to feel, when his big mouth, or his less than impressive phisique, or... well, any number of imperfections could get Zetsumie into trouble! All the same though, he kept quiet, shoveling much needed nourishment into his mouth, until he felt full and satisfied. It had been a long time since his stomach was well and truly full,
[06:23] <@Haruko> and it was a feeling he had missed. He seemed to favor more sweet or seasoned foods best, and ate the more bland, or spicy bits last. For now, he wasn't picky, but he had been known to be in the past. At that fond admonishment, Haru smiled sheepishly, and poked a bit of sticky rice around his bowl. "My brother used to say, the worse the table manners, the more delicious the food..." attempting
[06:23] <@Haruko> to cover up his less than impressive manners with flattery.
00[06:29] <@PS> Zetsumie shook his head gently. "We'll have you practice none the less. It's better to have you know what you should do when eating formally." Zetsumie said. "When it's just me and you... I think perhaps you needing be too worried about traditions." He offered. "You're new- it's expected you know nothing and surprising if you know even a little. I am you're teacher and I will teach you many, many things." Zetsumie said softly. "If you ever feel that there may be something you do not understand or that you are having trouble with, or simply don't know or are seeking more information do not hesitate to ask. It's my job to help you. If you have questions please do ask them when you like." Zetsumie said as he poured the smaller some hot tea.
[06:43] <@Haruko> "I know a few manners..." Haruko protested weakly. Truly though, he only knew how to ... well, not look like a pig while he was eating. His family, even when they were all alive, was never particularly wealthy, and didn't attend social gatherings. And what good did it do you to be fancy around your family? "What sorts of things? Will I have to learn them right away?" He seemed to have little
[06:43] <@Haruko> trouble asking questions at the moment, but he could tend to be a bit stubborn about receiving help, when he thought he could get something done on his own. No matter how well intentioned the offer might be. "... How come you picked me, when there were lots of stronger, bigger, probably smarter people? They'd have done a better job, I know they would. They were practically work machines
[06:43] <@Haruko> already..."

03[00:52] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
00[00:52] <@PS> [06:29] <@PS> Zetsumie shook his head gently. "We'll have you practice none the less. It's better to have you know what you should do when eating formally." Zetsumie said. "When it's just me and you... I think perhaps you needing be too worried about traditions." He offered. "You're new- it's expected you know nothing and surprising if you know even a little. I am you're teacher and I will teach you many, many things." Zetsumie said softly. "If you ever feel that there may be something you do not understand or that you are having trouble with, or simply don't know or are seeking more information do not hesitate to ask. It's my job to help you. If you have questions please do ask them when you like." Zetsumie said as he poured the smaller some hot tea.
00[00:52] <@PS> [06:43] <@Haruko> "I know a few manners..." Haruko protested weakly. Truly though, he only knew how to ... well, not look like a pig while he was eating. His family, even when they were all alive, was never particularly wealthy, and didn't attend social gatherings. And what good did it do you to be fancy around your family? "What sorts of things? Will I have to learn them right away?" He seemed to have little
00[00:52] <@PS> [06:43] <@Haruko> trouble asking questions at the moment, but he could tend to be a bit stubborn about receiving help, when he thought he could get something done on his own. No matter how well intentioned the offer might be. "... How come you picked me, when there were lots of stronger, bigger, probably smarter people? They'd have done a better job, I know they would. They were practically work machines
00[00:52] <@PS> [06:43] <@Haruko> already..."
00[01:02] <@PS> Zetsumie smiled and shook his head." You won't have to learn them right away. If you mess up and make simple mistakes you can expect to be reprimanded. If you're naughty and misbehave you can expect punishment. " Zetsumie explained gently yet paused having heard the next part. "I chose you because of how small and young you are... there's still room to help you grown in to a better person and to shape you in to my apprentice. You are my student and you are expected to become my apprentice so do not be surprised if you are referred to as my apprentice at times child." Zetsumie explained. "You would learn little things- for example at a formal dinner you may be seated with children your age or younger. Or I may have tyou sit right next to me. There are lots of silly rules that go with manners like not touching you meal before our elders and betters and not fishing before them. Those are not what you need to worry about right this moment." Zetsumie explained. "Once you are finished with your breakfast I'd like for you to stand up and strip. "
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03[01:16] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
[01:35] <@Haruko> Haruko winced at both the words, repremanded and punishment, thinking they didn't sound too far apart in meaning. Though when it came to Zetsumie's method of punishing from the night before.... well, he could see that there was one distinct difference. He nodded along with the man's explaination, liking the word 'apprentice' much more than 'worker'. It suited him better. Though at the word
[01:35] <@Haruko> s 'small, young, and child', he was beginning to feel a bit... belittled. "That doesn't sound too hard, I suppose... I've got a good memory, at the very least." He just hoped he wouldn't have to learn everything too fast. and at the last command, he fairly gawked at Zetsumie. "... B-But didn't I just get dressed?" He asked, a vivid pink blush creeping to his pale cheeks.
00[01:42] <@PS> "Yes you did... that's why I said whenyou're finished. I haven't yet propporly looked you over young one." Zetsumie explaioned gently. "I'll want to know weatehr or not I should start with your physical training right away or not."
[01:50] <@Haruko> Haruko picked over the little food left in his bowl, wishing he'd been less enthusiastic and taken his time with things. ".... Surely you could see well enough with them on... they aren't as heavy as all that..." He mumbled, pushing a bit of egg from one side to the other, clearly displeased with the request.
00[02:01] <@PS> "You haven't got anything I haven't seen before little one. " Zetsumie explained. "You needn't take everything off just your top will do." Zetsumie offered hoping to help the little one feel a bit better.
[02:05] <@Haruko> Haruko looked immediately relieved, and nodded, settling a hand over his heart. He wondered why Zetsumie had told him to 'strip' and rather poutily assumed it was just to bother him because of his shyness before. All the same, he scooped up the last bit of his breakfast, settling his chopsticks together over the bowl. "Thank you. It was delicious." He said, as he stood, and got busy, dainty
[02:05] <@Haruko> fingers untying the sash on his top, and sliding the fabric off his smooth shoulders, and down a pair of slender arms. The boy tossed it onto the bed, and gathered up his red hair, pulling it to rest behind his back and out of the way. All the same, he couldn't help folding his arms, in an attempt to cover up a bit.
00[02:28] <@PS> Zetsumie moved to stand and reached out taking Haruko's arms and moving them to be held out on either side of the boy. He looked Haruko's chest and stomatch over carefully inspecting it for muscle growth, and scars or wounds. He turned the boy around and sweapt his hair aside so that he could view his shoulders and back. Zetsumei tooko ne of Haruko's arms and bent it slightly. "Now bend your finger's like this..." he demonstriaghte dhow to do it. "It'll cause your arm muscles to flex." He explained.
[02:33] <@Haruko> Haruko fidgeted a bit as he was looked over, feeling more like a piece of jewelry or a fine robe than an apprentice. He wasn't particularly muscular, since all the hard work he'd ever had to do was grow enough food for he and his brother to live on. And even when it came to plowing, he hadn't done the fields himself. He mostly maintained... He was much better at cooking, cleaning, and feeding
[02:33] <@Haruko> their animals. Things that needed a lighter, more careful touch. Taking in a deep breath to puff out his chest, Haru bent his fingers as he was told, and put a bit more effort into flexing his muscles, wanting them to look bigger. "My brother said I'm due for a growth spurt any time..." He explained, as if he were trying to sell Zetsumie on buying him a second time.
00[02:41] <@PS> "What happened to your brother little one?" Zetsumie asked as he pulled the top back on to Haruko and tied it propportly and then teh sash before pulling it out at the edges making it striaght and presentable. "Why were you in the market?"
[02:49] <@Haruko> The question looked as if it had shot the poor boy right through his heart. All the same, he replied, looking as if he were staring into the distance, as he peered into his own mind's eye. "He's... Away." Haruko nodded to himself, and qas quietly thoughtful for some time, before the feeling of Zetsumie dressing him knocked him right back into reality. "He'll be back sometime. And I'm sure
[02:49] <@Haruko> he'll thank you for taking me in like this." He failed to mention that said brother had been 'away' for a little over half a year, and no letters or money had come since the second month. "He'd really like you." Haru continued, pointedly ignoring the second question.
00[03:01] <@PS> Zetsumie sighed softly. "Alright then Haruko.... Hopefully when your brother returns he'll know just where to find you." Zetsumie explained. He petted Haruko on the back. "Well you've got a little meat on your bones so we'll start you off small. ever wax floors before?" He asked softly. He moved towards the doors and opened the both of them to their largest extent. Next Zetsumie set about to fixing the room and making up the bed. He gathered their dishes on the tray and got ready to leave the room. He stepped in to his shoes. "Follow along little one I'm going to show you a few areas you'll want to know about." He called taking up to calling Haruko 'Little One' rather than the boys name. Perhaps Zetsumie forgot the lad's name?
[03:30] <@Haruko> "I'm sure he'll be able to find me. Don't you worry." He seemed confident in that, despite the area's tight security. "Not exactly... I've washed and dried them, though." He attempted to help where he could, straightening the ends of the bed a bit, and gathering his own dishes into a little pile. It felt awkward to just stand by uselessly. At the nickname, he frowned a bit, but didn't make
[03:30] <@Haruko> a fuss just yet, and nodded. "Coming..." He called, padding along behind Zetsumie, barefooted.
00[03:47] <@PS> Zetsumie walked along the corridors until the came to a very large kitchen. "This is the kitchen." Zetsumie set the dishes aside in a sink and took Haruko's as well. "This is where the meals will be cooked." he explained. "Come now I'll show you the two main training rooms you'll be allowed to use and I'll show you the bath house and other such commodities." Zetsumie called. Sure enough he lead the little red head to a section near the middle of the entry sector where he showed the lad the training halls. There were youngling like himself scattered about practicing things and a few a bit older with what looked like their teachers. Next H lead him towards the back of the compound through the lovely little gardens they owned and showed Haruko the Bath house. They had some nice large natural spring up on their mountain as well as the more traditional baths with fire pits beneath. "For today you'll be doing chores assigned to you and you might be send around as an errand boy.... It'll help familiarize you with your new home. "Zetsumie said leading him to the center of the compound where all the buildings seem to circle about. Zetsumie paused and pointed to a smaller building that looked like a shed locked up and raised on stilts with out a stair case. "You are to never enter that building there. Like wise it is forbidden that you enter the third levels of the main buildings.
[04:01] <@Haruko> Haruko nodded along with those words, and would have offered to do the dishes... had it not been for Zetsumie's plans already in action. He looked mostly confused at the training rooms, wondering just what they would be training for. Watching the boys for just a short time cleared up that mystery, however. He didn't know how skill he'd be, but he figured he'd leave that potential disappointment
[04:01] <@Haruko> for when Zetsumie became more attached, and less willing to find another apprentice. ^^; He seemed to enjoy the look of the bath house, however, and looked forward to taking a soak there in the near future. Provided it was sufficiently empty. "Not in that building..." Haruko repeated carefully, pointing to the shed, "Not on the third levels. Got it." He nodded, looking serious for a moment.
[04:01] <@Haruko> "... can I ask why not?" He added, ruining that sense of seriousness with his naive curiousity.
00[04:11] <@PS> Zetsumie paused and suddenly turned uppon Haruko and looked down on his with what could be described as a death glair. He narrowed those preidtori golden eyes on the younger and suddenly he set his hand uppon the boy's shoulders. "You are not to enter that building. I forbid it." He stated looking deep in to Haruko's eyes. He took a deep breath and sighed releasing the sudden serious tension. "The third levles are for teh elders... their offices and rooms are up there as well." He explained.
[04:21] <@Haruko> Haruko looked as if he were staring down a tiger that hadn't eaten for a week. His eyes went wide, and his breaths trembled on their intake, before stopping altogether, as he froze under Zetsumie's glare. As those heavy hands landed on his shoulders, the boy jumped, letting out what could only be described as a whimpering mewl, just loud enough to hit the man's ears. Slowly, he forced his
[04:21] <@Haruko> head to nod up and down, suddenly remembering how to breathe, as Zetsumei took in his own breath, and seemed to calm. "Oh I.... I see..." Haru said lightly, on an outward breath, mostly air, and very little voice involved.
00[04:30] <@PS> "Come 'Little One' such matters should not occupie your mind . Let's get you a pail some rags, and a brush." He coaxed gently as he set a heavy hand a top Haruko's head and stroked some fiery red locks back out of his face. He stroked the boy's head gently almost lovingly in two soft pets before with drawing and almost recoiling having seemed hesitant to be so forwards in showing such sweet care. Zetsumie didn't want the lad to be shaken too much.
[04:37] <@Haruko> Haruko nodded, eager to get on Zetsumie's good side, by showing that he really could be helpful and usefull if given the chance... but gave pause as that hand set atop his head, pushing back the strands that seemed to be constantly obscuring his face in one way or another. He'd nearly flinched, but didn't want to seem rude, or worse, cowardly, if he could help it. For the most part, he was
[04:37] <@Haruko> confused, wondering just what Zetsumie had meant by showing the two completely opposite emotions back to back. Was it... an apology? For frightening him? And just as Haru began to relax and accept the treatment, that hand was removed, just as fast as it arrived.
00[04:46] <@PS> Zetsumie lead Haruko over to a supplies closet. He fetched out a pail a brush and some rags. He then lead Haruko to a well. "Draw some water Little One." Zetsumie instructed. "We'll start you off with chores... if you do enough of them you'll get a little stronger and more... durable." Zetsumie explained.
[04:50] <@Haruko> Again, those words prickled at his usually sensitive feelings and temper, but he hadn't mustered up the force to correct the intimidating man otherwise. He simply lowered the pail into the well, giving it a moment to settle under the water, before pulling it up again more slowly than he let it down. A bit sloshed out of the sides, but it stayed mostly inside the pail. For once, it was something
[04:50] <@Haruko> he had experience with. "Appearances can be deceiving sometimes... I'm strong for my... my physique." Haru stumbled, before settling on the words. As he unhooked the pail from it's rope, he slouched a bit, holding it up with just a bit more effort than he wanted to let on.
00[05:00] <@PS> "Deception is part of our job and you'll not fool me Little One." Zetsumie explained knowing full well the difficulty Haruko was having with a pail of water. "Follow me and bring the pail." He said leading him towards the building acting as if he didn't care about how hard it was for Haruko to accomplish. Perhaps if it were different circumstances He might have taken care of the task or offered his help. This was just the begging of a long torturous presses Haruko would soon undertake. The reached a large room with polished hard wood floors. It was a very very big room. " Haruko I want you to wash the floor in here please. Every one will be having dinner in this room this evening I expect you to do a good job. Be proud of your work no matter how low it may seem. Do it well and you'll be rewarded." Zetsumie explained. "I will leave you for a while. should you finish the room before I return you may put the supplies away and take a break. I'll find out. Is there anything you need to ask of me before I go Little One?" Zetsumie concluded with the question and raised an eyebrow.
[05:08] <@Haruko> Haruko's calm facade wavered a bit, at being called out so flatly on his little fib. His brother would have at least played along! A distinctive sulk crossed his features, as he lugged the heavy pail along, gritting his teeth to keep from answering back. Discipline had never been strongly maintained, since his family was always kind to him, and never expected more than he could do with a bit
[05:08] <@Haruko> of effort. So he had never really had the urge to sass them. And the rational part of his mind was desperately begging for him to learn the practice, post-haste, before he ended up in hot water. When they finally reached the room, Haru was panting, and a little sweat built up on his forehead. He set the pail down, and wiped his forehead, listening, as his heart beat a little too loud in his
[05:08] <@Haruko> ears. At the question, he couldn't hold back anymore. "If you could stop calling me like a little brat, while expecting me to do a man's work, that would be fantastic..." He mumbled, stooping down and picking up a cloth, saturating it in the water, getting ready to wash down the floor.
00[05:19] <@PS> Zetsumie smiled faintly hearing his plucky little attitude come out. "Child, you know not the work of a man. I call you Little One in endearment and affection. You've yet to become a trainee and you have much hard work ahead of you. With this title you may be given leeway, or what I call mercy. I understand how hard this is for you and I understand just how much effort needs to be given. If there is one thing I can give you as advice it is this. Listen closely for it will forever reoccur to you Child. Never give up and never stop trying. Always do you best." Zetsumie explained. "If you give up you'll only doom your self to failure. " He offered. "You have not yet earned the privilege or right to be called anything other than Child, youngling, or Little One. When you have proven you can do little more than what is expected of a child here then perhaps I'll call you something else Little One. For now Little One will do just fine. It helps remind me that you are not yet accustomed to what is expected of a student of mine. " Zetsumie added in. He struck a curious look then as his brows furrowed. "Let me ask you something Little One." He started making sure to hammer it in to the small red head that that is what Zetsumie was going to be calling him. "Dose the students belong to the Teacher or dose the Teacher belong to the students?" It was a bit out of left field to strike up something which could be considered by some as philosophy from the elder.
[05:30] <@Haruko> Haru contained himself, as he rung out the cloth, obviously taking out his frustration on the fabric as Zetsumie explained himself, and not liking it's meaning in the slightest. "... I didn't plan on giving up." He said back, in a bit of a huff, not looking back at his master just yet. He didn't plan on doing it until he didn't feel angry anymore. He was pretty sure full on glaring at someone
[05:30] <@Haruko> who basically owned you wasn't asking for sunshine and rainbows. As he was informed of earning a new title, the brooding youth snapped back, "Then why don't you leave me [1]alone[1] and let me earn it now?" he flung the cloth down at the word 'alone' and slumped down on to his knees at 'now', and began scrubbing away at some dusty looking floorboards. "... I don't think anybody should belong to
[05:30] <@Haruko> anybody. But I guess you see it differently." He gritted between his teeth, clearly having forgotten the effort he was making on the way inside to stay quiet.
03[05:30] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
03[05:30] * PS is now known as Zetsumie
00[05:34] <@Zetsumie> Zetsumie simply bent over and hooked his fingers in to the Back hem of Haruko's pants and he hoisted teh boy right up from the floor and swatted hsi bottom rather harshly whilst he had him dangling. The thick pants helped lessen the swat however. He set Haruko on to his feet once more. "Haruko. Names an titles are very important here. You don't exactly earn something like that with physical work alone... in essence you must try and live up to my exspectations of you. Now please awnser my qyestion what do you think? Should the student belong to the Master or should the Master belong to the student
00[05:34] <@Zetsumie> ?"
[05:42] <@Haruko> Haruko gasped as he was pulled up, reaching back and trying to dislodge Zetsumie's fingers at first, but soon, his hands moved to cover his backside, as he squalled loudly, this time, fully glaring up at the man holding him, and giving a few frustrated kicks in the air, until he was set down on his feet. "I know what you want to hear, but I'm telling you, nobody should belong to anyone, and
[05:42] <@Haruko> that's what I think!" A stomp interrupted his words a moment. "But I'll lie to you if you want me to!" He himself was rather a victim of being owned, and hadn't quite made peace with it. "master" The word was fairly dripping with venom. Zetsumie had done it. He'd poked the mild mannered kitten into hissing at him.
00[05:49] <@Zetsumie> Zetsumie slapped Haruko on the face. He was careful and controlled knowing just the right amount of force to catch the boys attention not nearly enough to leave even a pinkened mark either. "Hush, and listen. You're naive and you still have much to learn. The answer is this. The student belongs to the Master and the Master belongs to the student. I belong to you just as much as you belong to me." Zetsumie stated. "I take responsibility for you your actions and for your well being. I will be the one to answer if you mess up. Everything you do will reflect upon myself and it works exactly the same vice versa. Everything I do will reflect on you and some may expect you to answer for my own actions. "If you so choose to embarrass yourself I share the embarrassment for having taken you in under my wing. What kind of a Master would I be if I didn't owe you my time and effort to help you? It would be senseless if I did not belong to you as well. " He explained. "Look at me." he called softly.
[05:56] <@Haruko> Haruko gasped harshly, and stuck his hand to the side of his face, looking positively distraught a moment. His mouth hung open, and his eyes watered up instantly. Never in his life had someone stricken him across the face. But one thing was for certain. He was quiet and listening. Well, quiet aside from a few hitches of breath, both from getting wound up in the first place, and so quickly
[05:56] <@Haruko> brought back down again. His eyes were locked on the clean spot he'd made just two steps in front of his own feet, as he tried to absorb the words, without letting his feelings overwhelm him into not understanding. It was a challenge, but he did it. At those last words, he hesitated and shut his eyes tightly a moment, trying to force away any wetness that remained, before looking up, and
[05:56] <@Haruko> tossing his hair away from his eyes. He didn't look happy. but at the very least, he didn't look angry anymore.
00[06:01] <@Zetsumie> Zetsumie reached out a hand and cupped the boy's cheek. He brushed the thumb pad carefully right below the boy's eyes in an attempt to dry any tears. "Do you remember what I told you my name was?" Zetsumie asked in a much softer kinder tone. "And do you recall what it means and do you understand what it stands for?" Few were his words and simple were his actions but they certainly had meaning.
[06:09] <@Haruko> Haruko blushed, as he felt a bit of dampness wiped away. If there was one thing he couldn't stand, it was anybody seeing him cry. "... Zetsumie... Death... D-Death... something..." He couldn't remember. All he did remember was that it was beyond intimidating. Haruko shook his head just a bit in Zetsumie's hand. "...no..." His words just about squeaked out, and he swallowed down the tight,
[06:09] <@Haruko> tense feeling in his throat.
00[06:20] <@Zetsumie> "Zetsumie Aku (Evil Death) is the name I told you was my name... It is a name I have Earned on the battle field. You too will one day earn your name should you be successful. In our ...family everyone must take the right of passage in to becoming a man or a woman. Such names are generally earned after that right of passage. It becomes a banner, or a mark of what you've made of your self. Zetsumie explained. "However Little one I feel that I should tell you something- My real name. My real name is Tenchi (Angel). When I was your age I was often teased and called Techiko (Little Angel). These days nearly every one in our clan calls me by Zetsumie. There are very few who know my true name." he explained. "You should cherish the time in which you're called by endearing terms... it will not last and I can bet you'll miss it when it's gone." Zetsumie said. "Now then dry your tears and don't tempt me so often to give you love taps like that... Next time I ask you a question I expect you behave your self and be respectful and answer the question. " Zetsumie lightly scolded. "Should you miss behave like that in front of others and show me such disrespect I will not hesitate in punishing you for your poor behavior Little One do I make my self clear?" Zetsumie asked softly in a kind yet stern tone of voice.
[06:34] <@Haruko> Haruko nodded, putting that name to perminent memory this time. His expression turned from confusion to quiet reflection to a bit of sadness in a matter of seconds. He was someone who stained the pages of his parents story books with tears, as he read stories of wartime love, and loss, and mourning of someone he had never met. And to hear the sadness that Zetsumie's words were laced with
[06:34] <@Haruko> pricked his empathetic heart so harshly he could swear it would cease pumping for a moment. Thoughts swirled in his head about his fate down the road. Would he end up a hardened, killing warrior, with a blood stained soul, longing for the days when he was called spring child? For now, he simply nodded yet again, and swiped his sleeves over his eyes, "Perfectly clear." If those were considered
[06:34] <@Haruko> love taps, he'd hate to see what wasn't.
00[06:39] <@Zetsumie> "Good boy... you have a lot of work to do and I need to attend to buissness... behave whilst I'm gone..." Zetsumie praised before petting the boy and rufffling his hair as if to try and lighten his mood. with that Zetsumie left the lad alone to his own work. Should Haruko do nothing but work he'd be visited by the same odd little Albino he'd met before. Masao stayed out of the room observing for a momment or so just how Haruko was working on the floors before making his pressence known. Masao was absolutely drenched in sweat and he was breathing heavily covered in what looked liek dusty dirt. "Good morning Haruko-chan." Masao called softly. "How are you doing adjusting?" He asked gently.
[06:49] <@Haruko> Haruko kept himself from leaning into that affectionate touch, not wanting to seem over-eager, and nodded. "I will." And he did. With his mind full of loud thoughts, at times, Haruko didn't notice how tired his arms were slowly getting, or how sore his knuckles were growing as he scrubbed and scrubbed, dipping that cloth now and then to clean it, and wiping off his forehead on his sweater
[06:49] <@Haruko> sleeve. Other times wiping his eyes, as he started to get too invested in a story he was unwittingly writing in his head, a melodrama of Zetsumie, small and innocent, and full of naivete, swept up into a terrible life... At which point he'd shake his head and dash those thoughts away, working twice as hard to distract himself from that. It was a terribly exhausting cycle for him emotionally,
[06:49] <@Haruko> but as far as productivity went, he was getting the floor done more quickly than he expected, and was nearly halfway finished by the time Masao called out to him, making the boy just about jump out of his skin. "Oh! oh... Good morning... I'm... I'm doing very well. Thank you." He lied, sitting back on his heels, and catching his breath. "How are you? I haven't seen you since yesterday..."
00[06:56] <@Zetsumie> "I'm fine... you seem distracted.... are you sure everything is all right Haruko-kun?" Masao chirped his question. He was rocking on his heels and fidgeting a bit. "I've got to get back to work very soon." He offered gently. "It's alright to feel sad Haruko but please understand that you're apart of our family here now and we'll do our best to look after you and take good care of you." Masao promised. "Zetsumie-Sama wouldn't let anything happen to you so you really have nothing to worry about." he offered as well trying to get the boy to look a little brighter. "Hey if you get done with your work early perhaps you and I can go down to the river for a little fun latter? I bet your Master wouldn't mind that too much." he offered hoping to suggest something fun.
[07:08] <@Haruko> Haruko kept a brave face as well as he could, pulling his damp knees up, and resting his folded arms on them. "I'm sure, I just... I have to get back to work too, is all." He smiled. One that wavered a bit, his lower lip trembling, as Masao offered those comforting words. "Thank you... I... I really appreciate it, I..." The words sounded so delicate as they forced their way out of his throat,
[07:08] <@Haruko> they seemed to desolve into a fine dust, sprinkling on the floor just as they left his mouth. "I know he won't. I'm not afraid, believe me, I just have alot to think about..." Like the fact that he didn't want to think about a 'new' family when his old one could still be okay. Maybe. And it seemed all at once Haru realized the depth of how unhappy he looked, and straightened up considerably,
[07:08] <@Haruko> faking a cough to clear his throat, and brighten up his eyes, fluttering those long lashes a few times. The last thing he wanted was for Masao, who looked pretty worn out himself, to sit and worry. "Sounds fun. I'll ask him." Haruko forced a smile so cheerful, he almost tricked himself into believing it.
03[07:35] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
02[07:50] * @Haruko ([email protected]) Quit (Quit: )
03[12:20] * Zetsumie is now known as PS
02[12:34] * Disconnected
Session Close: Sat Sep 28 12:34:16 2013

Session Start: Sat Sep 28 12:34:16 2013
Session Ident: #At_Night
02[12:39] * Attempting to rejoin channel #At_Night
03[12:39] * Rejoined channel #At_Night
03[12:43] * Tempo is now known as PS
00[22:02] <@PS> "Well try thinking about nice things like supper... It'll help you get through your work!" The albino youth called. although he really should have gotten back to work he stepped out of his shoes and made his way over to Haruko and hugged the other. "It's alright I'm sure ever thing will be fine." Masao offered gently. "I have to get back to work before Shifu finds out I'm not where I should be." Masao offered gently. "I'll see you later Haruko. " With that the pale youth departed stepping in to his shoes and heading off.

03[21:56] * Now talking in #At_Night
03[22:04] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night
03[22:06] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
00[22:07] <@PS> [06:56] <@Zetsumie> "I'm fine... you seem distracted.... are you sure everything is all right Haruko-kun?" Masao chirped his question. He was rocking on his heels and fidgeting a bit. "I've got to get back to work very soon." He offered gently. "It's alright to feel sad Haruko but please understand that you're apart of our family here now and we'll do our best to look after you and take good care of you." Masao promised. "Zetsumie-Sama wouldn't let anything happen to you so you really have nothing to worry about." he offered as well trying to get the boy to look a little brighter. "Hey if you get done with your work early perhaps you and I can go down to the river for a little fun latter? I bet your Master wouldn't mind that too much." he offered hoping to suggest something fun.
00[22:07] <@PS> [07:08] <@Haruko> Haruko kept a brave face as well as he could, pulling his damp knees up, and resting his folded arms on them. "I'm sure, I just... I have to get back to work too, is all." He smiled. One that wavered a bit, his lower lip trembling, as Masao offered those comforting words. "Thank you... I... I really appreciate it, I..." The words sounded so delicate as they forced their way out of his throat,
00[22:07] <@PS> [07:08] <@Haruko> they seemed to desolve into a fine dust, sprinkling on the floor just as they left his mouth. "I know he won't. I'm not afraid, believe me, I just have alot to think about..." Like the fact that he didn't want to think about a 'new' family when his old one could still be okay. Maybe. And it seemed all at once Haru realized the depth of how unhappy he looked, and straightened up considerably,
00[22:07] <@PS> [07:08] <@Haruko> faking a cough to clear his throat, and brighten up his eyes, fluttering those long lashes a few times. The last thing he wanted was for Masao, who looked pretty worn out himself, to sit and worry. "Sounds fun. I'll ask him." Haruko forced a smile so cheerful, he almost tricked himself into believing it.
00[22:07] <@PS> "Well try thinking about nice things like supper... It'll help you get through your work!" The albino youth called. although he really should have gotten back to work he stepped out of his shoes and made his way over to Haruko and hugged the other. "It's alright I'm sure ever thing will be fine." Masao offered gently. "I have to get back to work before Shifu finds out I'm not where I should be." Masao offered gently. "I'll see you later Haruko. " With that the pale youth departed stepping in to his shoes and heading off.
[22:23] <@Haruko> "Thanks anyway, I'll try that." Haruko smiled, as he waved Masao off. "Good luck with your own work!" he called after him. And just like that, he seemed a little lighter all over. As if Masao had come and taken a great weight off of his shoulders. And though his arms had begun to ache, as well as his knees, kneeling on that hard floor, he put enough muscle into the job to get the planks of
[22:23] <@Haruko> wood to shine, and the small spaces between them clean as well. He supposed if Masao had been here this long, and had kept that smiling face, and cheerful disposition... well, it couldn't have been that terrible. He didn't look the warrior type either. And though haru didn't know it yet, a kindred spirit did wonders for keeping one's worries in check.
00[22:31] <@PS> Time slipped away slowly and the sound soft day to day activities came and went. Birds chirped, the wind blew, the trees shook. Kids and adults talking, or training in the distance perhaps even attending to chores of their own. Every so often some oen might walk by but none really paid the new comer any mind. It was nearing a little after noon when Some one was headed in to the room Haruko was tasked to clean. the man wore a vivid bright pink and white silken over coat with soft Haruko colored prints of cherry blossoms adorning it. He was a young man in his early twenties but dressed in coal colored monk pants and a forest green gi top. He had with him what looked like a walking stick old and twisted in an odd form. He paused just before The wet area by Haruko and his blank expressions was turned down wards towards Haruko. " His hair was long and come out. It looked clean but had an ink like appearance as it washed over the pale shoulder in pure black. His eyes were frigid blue. Tell me young one.... what is you name?" He asked his voice surprisingly soft like the sound of summer rain.
[22:52] <@Haruko> Haruko had finished his task well enough, but fearing that he might have done a mediocre job, was running from one end of the room to the other, a damp cloth in both hands, pressed against the planks of wood, and picking up any tiny remains left over. His knees and below were damp, and his knee caps had smudgey spots on them, from where they'd lifted up dirt from the floor. A little sweat
[22:52] <@Haruko> blotted his brow, and his long hair was mussed from the work. When Haru heard the voice come so suddenly, he stopped short in mid-sprint, not minding how slick the floors had become, and tried to stand up straight, slipping, and falling onto his backside with a sharp yelp! @_@
00[22:57] <@PS> Softly and slowly the elder moved his staff out and flipped it offering the top part out to Haruko holding it just abouve the boy's chest. "Careful- we wouldn't want you loosing any teeth now would we?" He asked. His bangs were grown out a bit too long and hung in his face. It didn't seem to bothe rthe man at all. "I'm sorry if I startled you little one." He offered. "Please correct me if I'm wrong but I must say and may I be so bold as to say, I didn't think there would ever be a day when Zetsumie would take on a young female as his apprentice."
[23:48] <@Haruko> "oh!" Haru blinked in surprise as the staff stopped just above his chest, and took hold of it, his cheeks blushing just a bit short of the redness of his hair. Pulling himself up, he stood more carefully, tip-toeing toward the elder, where the floor was more dry. "Thank you, I'm not usually so clumsy, I just wasn't expecting it to be that slippery... It's really my fault, please don't be
[23:48] <@Haruko> sorr-" He stopped short, wondering if he'd heard the words correctly for a moment. This time, he did blush as crimson as his long locks. And forgetting his promise to keep his tongue as civil as he could, the young man snapped in return. "You are awfully bold, considering I'm quite male, thank you very much." Turning away, he huffed, and picked up the cloth he had abandoned, dipping it into
[23:48] <@Haruko> the clean pail of water. "And if you don't mind, I do have work to finish..."
00[23:51] <@PS> The elder chuckled softly. "Ah... your voice... You are male." He said gently after hearing the lad speak up. "Are you small for you age? Or perhaps you are under nurished? Your steps are awefully light for some one your age." The elder asked softly. He slowly turned in to Haruko's direction. "The word around is you were wearing girl's clothing when you arrived." He offered softly. The man wasn't exactly looking at Haruko. He was in fact blind.
[23:58] <@Haruko> Truth be told, Haru was definitely lowering his voice a bit for effect, since he couldn't particularly change his looks to suit his needs. But that seemed not to matter, as the man's eyes seemed to never meet his own, or linger on his looks for long at all. As Haruko had never met a blind person, he didn't quite understand right away. "Not terribly. It's not as if I'm an adult yet..." Haru
[23:58] <@Haruko> didn't think he was that small. Well, not compared to ... girls his age... "Some people grow differently. And that's fine." He defensively repeated the words his brother had told him a year before. "I can't grow to suit anyone, even myself. Let alone everyone else." And if he could blush any further, he would have, but at the moment, all he could do was turn away, face aflame, wishing he
[23:58] <@Haruko> could simply stomp outside! But Zetsumie had said to stay put. >////< So he'd just have to endure. "Rumors are often unreliable. That's what makes them rumors. Not facts." He decided not to deny it outright... it could be seen as lying. u///u; and nobody liked or respected a liar.
Session Time: Mon Oct 07 00:00:00 2013
00[00:02] <@PS> "Well... that's why I asked you Little One." Rane purred. "That is what your master has taken to calling yuo isn't it?" He asked softly curious to know the awnser to that as well. He had asked for Haruko's name yet recived none just yet.
[00:06] <@Haruko> "Yes, it's what my master calls me... We've had a talk about this, and he uses it because he is fond of me. It's a sign of that, not of ... well, of anything else, so please don't be confused." Haru took to continuing the floor's second cleaning once again. "Everyone else should call me by my name, I would think. It's Haruko. A boys name." Luckily the second pass was easier than the first,
[00:06] <@Haruko> and he was finishing quickly enough.
00[00:14] <@PS> "Haruko...?" He repeated softly. "Well Haruko I'm Raene... You seem to have quite the claws... If only words could cut." Raene tsked softly. "So new, so frisky... just like a Kitten." He offered gently. "Haruko-kun are you feeling hungery yet? " Raene asked as he stepped purposefully right infront of Haruko.
[00:26] <@Haruko> "Rain?" That seemed to catch his attention a moment, before he went right back to work. "Words cut both ways.... I don't like being called something I'm not." u///u he fired back as calmly as he could, considering the other wasn't becoming riled at all. When your anger is met with calm, one can't help but feel a little silly... He was pondering over the fact, when he agian, stopped short,
[00:26] <@Haruko> this time purposely falling back on his rearend to keep from colliding with Raene. "Uah! I almost-" He huffed, and tossed the rag down. "Yes, I am, but I'm not to leave this room until it's finished, and my master comes to get me. Thank you for your concern, but... But I really have to get this done." All the while, he hadn't gotten to his feet again, feeling relieved to sit down a moment
[00:26] <@Haruko> and rest.
00[00:32] <@PS> "Are you not done yet Kitten?" Raene asked before his knees benta nd he came down to eye levle. "Zetsumie... is no longer here." Rane started slowly speaking with a very nochalunt tone. "He'll be back with in the next hour or so. You'll be praised for your loyalties when he returnes I assure you." Raene explained a little. "Asking you to accompany me would be a little crule. However you sound as if you could use a pint of water... Shall I fetch you some Haruko-kun?"
[00:36] <@Haruko> Haruko hesitated a moment. "I'm nearly done... And it's not as if I don't fancy you a trustworthy person, it's ... it's that Zetsumie is my master, and his orders come first." Haru returned in a somewhat apologetic tone. "You don't have to fetch anything for me, honestly!" the boy fairly squeaked. Should he be asking anything from an elder? Zetsumie was kind to him, but it seemed as though
[00:36] <@Haruko> respect was something so important... would others think he was being disrespectful having an elder serve him? It was all so confusing. u.u; "Though if I'm honest, I am thirsty..." He was beginning to regret being so snippish earlier on.
00[00:37] <@PS> "Haruko-kun?" Raene adressed in a questioning tone.
[00:47] <@Haruko> "... Yes?" Haru asked, wondering if he was talking too much. It was so strange how he could simultaniously talk to little and too much, seemingly in the same hour. It was what happened when one tended to keep things bottled in.
00[00:48] <@PS> "May I set my hand uppon you?" Raene asked softly in a calm manner It was odd how his voice seemed to carry soem hint of politeness to it though the request sounded rather odd.
[00:55] <@Haruko> "... Of course." Haru nodded, wondering just what that meant. Was it something within their culture? Did it have some sort of signifigance? Though he did dry his brow on his shirt sleeve quickly. It only seemed polite.
00[00:58] <@PS> Raene reached out a gently hand and his touch was very soft as he clippe dteh very tips of his fingers in to Haruko's bangs as he pet the boy and simultaniously sweapt his bangs back and out of his face. Raene smiled at him but it was an odd smile very faint. "I'll bring you a drink of water." He said softly before rising to his feet and starteing slowly back towards whence he came.
[01:02] <@Haruko> Haruko found himself flinching just a little, not sure of what was going to happen... and finding an oddly soft touch gracing the top of his head, blinking up with surprise clear on his face. Not that the man could see it. "Thank you..." Haru called after him, adding on a soft "I guess." after he was out of sight. In the meantime, he got to finishing the floor, and pulled the pail of now
[01:02] <@Haruko> dirty water to rest beside the doorway.
00[01:04] <@PS> A few minutes went by befor Zetsumie appreared again. "The floor looks nice.
00[01:05] <@PS> " He praised looking the shinny wood over. " Are you tiered Little One?" Zetsumie asked ashe steppe din and started ove rto Haruko. He was holding two wooden boxes in his hands.
[01:08] <@Haruko> Haruko's face lit up more than he would ever be willing to admit at seeing Zetsumie in the doorway. "Thanks ... And I am." he sighed a little, rubbing his upper arms. "Not that I'm complaining." He eyed those boxes curiously, but didn't ask what they were just yet.
00[01:10] <@PS> "Clean up and put everythingaway and we'll have lunch." Zetsumie said. He could sence how relived Haruko was to see him. "Make sure you wash up first.... we will eat in our room." he said gently. "Hurry up little one else your meal will get cold." Zetsumie added in. It wasn't much but it was certainly a good start in helping the lad get in to a better condition .
[01:18] <@Haruko> "Okay. I'll be right there." Haruko nodded, and pulled up the bucket with both hands, wincing a bit, as he strained to lift it up with tired arms. Dumping the dirty water away outdoors, he lowered the bucket back into the well and pulled up a bit of icy, but clean water, rinsing his hands in it, and scrubbing upto his elbows, along with splashing a bit onto his face, before dumping the water
[01:18] <@Haruko> away, and leaving the bucket beside well, where others could use it. Hurridly, he made his way to their room, more than ready to feed his grumbling stomach.
00[01:22] <@PS> Zetsumei wa stehre setting out three places at their small table. He smiled softly seeing Haruk. "You shoudl dry off- ou'll catch cold like that." He offered softly. "Come along and sit. " He called fetching a towle for the smaller. He dropped it on to Haruko's head and ruffled it over his head for a momment. "Tomorrow you can rest. . . Then the day after I'll take you in to town with me. " Zetsumie started. "I've brought you some clothing to change in to before supper." Zetsumie said pointing to the folded white yukata.
[01:29] <@Haruko> "Oh. thank yo-" His words cut off as the towel was dropped over his head, and ruffled up. Haru couldn't help but smile a little at that. It had been a long, long time since anyone had done that for him, and he didn't know he'd even missed it. Pulling the towel up and carefully drying the length of his hair, where the droplets had fallen, he caught sight of the table. "Hm...? Three?" But,
[01:29] <@Haruko> distractable as he was, he nodded along with Zetsumie's words, and dried his arms, pulling the sash free from his top. "Thanks." And, turning away once again, he slipped the garment down off of his shoulders, and fiddled with the tie on his pants a moment, looking over his shoulder to see if Zetsumie was sufficiently distracted. >///>;
00[01:36] <@PS> Zetsumie was setting out the boxes after having finished setting the flat ware. He started to dish out what he'd brought back from town on to each plate proportionately. The second box was opened to reveal two different desserts. Dango and Ichigo Daifuku. Raene showed up at their door with a tray of freshly made tea and a nice large cup of water for Haruko. He came in and carefully seated himself across from where Haruko would sit, sitting right next to Zetsumie and carefully served each of the places. Haruko got a nice cup of water and a cup of hot tea. "I must say you really do know how to pick them... Your little Kitten is very Loyal already..."I wish I knew your secret Zetsumie." Raene said offering a light chuckle. "He did his chores all day and didn't even take a break. " Raene added in. Zetsumie paused and looked over to the smaller. "The Little one means well and had a good up bringing... He's got a good head on his shoulders... for teh most part. It's good to know I can trust him when I'm away." Zeytsumie started. "It helps put my mind at rest knowing He'll do what's asked of him. " Raene nodded softly in response. "I think the elder's will have no problem with him... dose his Funeral Garb fit?" Raene asked gently.
[01:42] <@Haruko> Haruko opted to pull the yukata on first, as he heard another voice enter the room, and proceeded to blush as they spoke as if he wasn't there at all. Sliding the dirtied garment down his legs, neatly folding it, and setting it aside, Haru tied his yukata's belt into place, before turning around, a warmth brewing in his stomach at the praise he had overheard in the mean time. The boy turned
[01:42] <@Haruko> around right as Zetsumie had finished speaking, looking rather pleased, but paused at the words 'funeral garb', looking down at the white yukata, as if he'd been tricked into drinking poisoned tea. He'd forgotten all about that, with Masao and Raene distracting him.
00[01:45] <@PS> "It dose." Zetsumie said looking to Haruko and makinga little spinning motion with his finger as if telling Haruko to turn about before joning them. "If a bit short... but that's allright." Zetsumie said gently. "Come on Haruko please take a seat. " Zetsumie called.
[01:50] <@Haruko> Haruko did as he was told, and spun in a small circle, making the garment float up a bit. Ever so gingerly, he sat, careful not to simply flop down, or slouch. They had a guest, after all. And Zetsumie said that his behavior reflected upon both of them. "It looks delicious." He offered, pushing up the sleeves of his yukata a bit, out of the way. He didn't want to think about any elders. Maybe
[01:50] <@Haruko> if no one mentioned it, they could just forget about the whole thing.
00[01:57] <@PS> Raene nodded in agreemeantw ith Haruko- It smells wounderful thank you." He said as he pull doff his coat and pulled his hair out of his face allowing his blank look to mucm more visible as he tied his ahir in to a pony tail. After all no one liked to eat with hair in their face. Zetsumie pet Haruko on the head. "Don't mind Raene too much He'll most likely be thw one I leave you with when I need to do things and not have to worry about your safety. " Zetsumie said. "Drink your water first you need more hydration."
[02:02] <@Haruko> Haruko nodded, and picked up his cup of water, taking first a small sip, and upon realizing how thirsty he was, quickly downing half of it in one go. "I don't mind at all. Raene," he paused and gave the other man a small smile, "Was very nice to me earlier. He spoke to me while I was washing the floor. Masao, too." Haruko pushed his own hair back, behind his shoulders, so he could eat too.
00[02:10] <@PS> "I'm guessing that was all before th 'incident'." Zetsumie stated as if something had happened and he caught word of it. "Ah yes... pitty that." Raene said gently. " I heard something going on out side tehw ash room..." Zetsumie took a sip of tea. "Something about snakes in Susumu's dresser. I saw Takeo and Yori taking the shinai... Masao didn't seem to be spaired any humility. . . Kodora and Kyosuke weren't in the most pleasant of moods. " Zetsumie explained. Raene shook his head. "The poor things... I some how dount Takeo and Masao had any part in something like that... Yori though... " Raene trailed. "Well Haruko here is very well behaved so I don't think we will have very manny problems like that so long as he knows who to keep away with... Honestly I wish the boys coudl just get along.
00[02:10] <@PS> " Raene sighed.
[02:30] <@Haruko> Haru looked back and fourth to the men as they spoke, wondering just what they were on about. When masao's name came up, they had his full attention, however. "... Masao didn't do it!" He squeaked out rather indignantly. "He was all filthy and tired from working all day! And he came and talked to me before he washed up for some time! He couldn't have done anything!" the boy shook his head
[02:30] <@Haruko> and gaped at the pair. "He didn't get in trouble, did he!? Be-because he's innocent, I know it!" For now, he ignored the praise that would normally make him blush, and feel like he was melting into a little puddle.
00[02:35] <@PS> Zetsumie nodded softly."Yes he was introuble." Zetsumie said gently."You worry about you right now... " Zetsumie advised. "Masao can handle himself. Remember that." Zetsumie added in. "I'll give you a little time to rest after Lunch before I take you to see the elders tonight- start eating you're going to want energy enough to be awake later on." Raene sighed softly settinga hot cut of tea aside. "Zetsumie's right don't worry about Masao right now. He's fine I'm sure of it. "
[02:38] <@Haruko> Haruko struggled for a moment, to keep quiet. He fidgeted in his seat, looking as if he wanted to leap up from the table. Like a trail of ants were crawling up his leg. Tapping his chop sticks anxiously against the tabletop, he bit his lower lip. "...But how can you be sure?" He asked, after a moment of silence, not able to keep it in. "What if he's punished for no reason?"
00[02:54] <@PS> Zetsumie smiled softly. "Every one gets their comuppance Haruko." He offered. "Every one... Zetsumie reache dover and plucked Haruko right up and seated hism sidways in Zetsumie's lap. Hepulled Haruko's dish over and pcike dup teh chopsticks gathering some Noodles and bringing them right up to Haruko's lips. "Now be a good little Haruko and eat up." He said having wrapped his otehr arm around Haruko's back and waist to keep himstill.
[02:59] <@Haruko> "but-" Haruko began to protest, yet again, until he was pulled right into Zetsumie's lap, luckily instinctively keeping his knees together, and pushing down the front of his yukata mindfully. "Zetsumie..." He let out a small whine, turning his head to the side, "Please, I can do it. I'll stop!" He seemed to already figure out that Zetsumie was fond of 'punishing' him in peculiar ways, when
[02:59] <@Haruko> he wasn't behaving the best. And with Raene sitting right there, it was all he could do to blush brightly.
<@Haruko> and gaped at the pair. "He didn't get in trouble, did he!? Be-because he's innocent, I know it!" For now, he ignored the praise that would normally make him blush, and feel like he was melting into a little puddle.
00[23:24] <Zetsumie> [02:35] <@PS> Zetsumie nodded softly."Yes he was introuble." Zetsumie said gently."You worry about you right now... " Zetsumie advised. "Masao can handle himself. Remember that." Zetsumie added in. "I'll give you a little time to rest after Lunch before I take you to see the elders tonight- start eating you're going to want energy enough to be awake later on." Raene sighed softly settinga hot cut of tea aside. "Zetsumie's right don't worry about Masao right now. He's fine I'm sure of it. "
00[23:24] <Zetsumie> [02:38] <@Haruko> Haruko struggled for a moment, to keep quiet. He fidgeted in his seat, looking as if he wanted to leap up from the table. Like a trail of ants were crawling up his leg. Tapping his chop sticks anxiously against the tabletop, he bit his lower lip. "...But how can you be sure?" He asked, after a moment of silence, not able to keep it in. "What if he's punished for no reason?"
00[23:24] <Zetsumie> [02:54] <@PS> Zetsumie smiled softly. "Every one gets their comuppance Haruko." He offered. "Every one... Zetsumie reache dover and plucked Haruko right up and seated hism sidways in Zetsumie's lap. Hepulled Haruko's dish over and pcike dup teh chopsticks gathering some Noodles and bringing them right up to Haruko's lips. "Now be a good little Haruko and eat up." He said having wrapped his otehr arm around Haruko's back and waist to keep himstill.
00[23:24] <Zetsumie> [02:59] <@Haruko> "but-" Haruko began to protest, yet again, until he was pulled right into Zetsumie's lap, luckily instinctively keeping his knees together, and pushing down the front of his yukata mindfully. "Zetsumie..." He let out a small whine, turning his head to the side, "Please, I can do it. I'll stop!" He seemed to already figure out that Zetsumie was fond of 'punishing' him in peculiar ways, when
00[23:24] <Zetsumie> [02:59] <@Haruko> he wasn't behaving the best. And with Raene sitting right there, it was all he could do to blush brightly.
00[23:49] <Zetsumie> Zetsumie didn't seem to hear the little red headed boy in his lap as he kept the bit of noodles up before his mouth waiting for him to open. He was tempted to pop some in when he was protesting but decided he didn't want to accidentally hurt the little one. "Open up now." The dark man instructed.
00[23:49] <Zetsumie> Raene chuckled softly upon hearing Zetsumie's words. "Isn't the child a little too old for that now?" He questioned in a soft hearted tone. Raene was partially trying to help Haruko voice his concerns to the elder knowing full well Zetsumie might consider Raene's words on the matter.
00[23:49] <Zetsumie> Zetsumie on the other hand stood firm in his position. "If the boy cannot eat when he's told then I believe that he hasn't yet leaned to feed himself and requires as assistance. Perhaps next time he'll have learned for now I want to make sure he gets the nutrients he needs. I don't need little ones passing out from starvation." Truth be told he was more so helping Haruko focus on his own problems first before seeing to others whom he'd so easily become attached.
Session Time: Tue Oct 08 00:00:00 2013
[00:03] <Haruko> Haruko pressed his lips together rather stubbornly, as his cheeks grew hotter with each passing moment. Nodding in thankful agreement with Raene, he tried gently squirming to his feet, and seeing as he was getting nowhere at all, tipped his head right down, shaking it. "I know how, I ate just this morning! I'll be quiet, if you let me do it myself, honestly!" >///<; Settling his hands in his
[00:03] <Haruko> lap, Haru huffed, and seemed to stand just as firm as Zetsumie that the event was not going to happen!
00[00:06] <Zetsumie> "Well alright then. If you're not going to do as you are told you can just fetch me the pretty little painting off the wall again." Zetsumie set the chopsticks down and picked Haruko up off his lap and stood the boy on his feet facingaway. He grabbed teh back of that white kimono and tucked the back skirt part in to the boy's obi.
[00:09] <Haruko> Haruko reached back, covering up his bared skin, and swore that his face was simply stuck in a perminent state of redness that day! It would stick that way, if any of those old wives tales were true. And, fidgeting a moment, he let out a little whine, looking at the 'fan' on the wall, and back to Zetsumie, as if he were facing the choice between a noose or walking the plank... After a moment,
[00:09] <Haruko> he turned back, sat himself gently down in the man's lap, and opened his mouth a bit. u///u Either way he would look childish. At least this way, he looked like a well behaved child.
00[00:12] <Zetsumie> Zetsumie simply picked Haruko up once more and stood him on his feet and have him a hard look before pointing to the fan exspectantly.
[00:14] <Haruko> Haruko frowned at that, and shook his head, taking a step backward, the backs of both hands resting protectively over his backside. "I'm doing as I was told, we don't need that.... Besides, there's company. u///u it's a little rude, don't you think? To... To ruin the atmosphere that way?"
00[00:18] <Zetsumie> "Haruko You won't like it if I get the fan." Zetsumie offered his final warning.
[00:21] <Haruko> In what Zetsumie would come to find as his normal habit, Haruko said something that could either be found as amusing, or sassy. "To be honest, I don't think I'll like it either way..." But taking that warning to heart, he walked backwards to the wall, trying not to show off his backside, and picked up the fan, tucking it behind his back, as he made his way forward again, inching back slowly.
00[00:23] <Zetsumie> Zetsumie offered out his hand waiting for Haruko to hand it to him. Raene for the most part fell silent takinga sip of tea not paying them much mind for Modesty's sake.
[00:28] <Haruko> Haruko held the fan behind his back for a moment longer, fixing a pair of pleading eyes at Zetsumie. "Couldn't we wait? Or go somewhere more private? I'm sure Raene doesn't want to see any of this, do you, sir?" The boy looked hopefully at the man who seemed to have taken his side more often than not. "I'll eat now, I promise. I'm very hungry, in fact." Haru's voice had a slight desperate
[00:28] <Haruko> squeakyness to it.
00[00:30] <Zetsumie> Raene shook his head. "I can leave if you'd prefer." Raene offered softly feeling his heart sink for teh little one. Zetsumie shook his head no. "If you misbeahve you'll be punished. We've been over this and you're not doing yourself any favors right now. You need to learn to do as you are told Haruko." Zetsumie scolded.
[00:34] <Haruko> "N-No, that's not what I meant!" Haruko shook his head, wincing. "O-Of course I want you here, I like you very much, it's just.... just..." With a little whine, he stamped a foot in frustration. "I-I wasn't expecting to be met with all this, just for speaking my mind! It isn't fair! It wasn't as if I said something rude! And I would have done it if it was fair at all! Which it wasn't!" >///<
[00:34] <Haruko> he huffed, thrusting out the fan in Zetsumie's direction. "But if you don't care about fairness, by all means!" he was quite the little speech maker, that Haruko.
00[00:42] <Zetsumie> Zetsumie took the fan and stood up to his full height an dlooke ddown at Haruko with a dissapproveing look. He snatche dteh boy up and tucked him right under his arm and patted his up turned bare rear. "You. Need. To. Listen. When. You. Are. Told. To. Do. Something." Each word was puncutated with a swat. "This one's for throwing a little fit." Zetsumie swatted him a bit harsher than ushual. In truth he really didnt need much of his strength to really leave a mark if he wante dto. It was a good thing he was a very restrained and controlled man. "You need to do as your todl when your told not try to weasle your way out if it." Haruko hot three swats for that. "When i ask you to do something I exspect you to do it and not make a fuss out of it. If you fuss you'll only en up getting your self in to trouble. " Haruko recived two more harsh swats before Zetsumie set him on his feet once again bfore untucking the back and setting the fan down right beside Raene. He picked Haruko back up and took a seat seting the boy in his lap once again as he picked up teh chop sticks. "Now open up." He said having wrapped his arm around Haruko's waist once again. Zetsumie didn't have him return the fan to it's hanging spot as a silent warning to the brat.
03[00:43] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
06[00:52] * Haruko let out an uncertain little noise in his throat, as he was pulled into position. He looked like he was trying to skip across a bed of hot coals for a moment as his bare feet came up off the ground one at a time with each swat, the other raising up on tippy toes, making an animated little display of himself, and yelping behind tightly closed lips, making the noise sound all the more
06[00:52] * Haruko whimper-like. He didn't want to make a fuss with Raene sitting right beside them, but he couldn't help but squirm about. As he was settled back down with a wince, Haru sniffled a few times, trying to mask his upset with a few coughs into his fist, and blinked the dampness in his eyes that he'd worked so hard to keep in. Though as he opened his mouth up, the shuddery little intake of breath,
06[00:52] * Haruko and the shiver up his spine made it quite apparent how much those swats had effected him.
00[01:18] <Zetsumie> Zetsumie set the chop sticks aside and tilted Haruko's head upwards. "Hush..." He said in a softer tone. "If I give you the chock sticks will you eat your meal?" Zetsumie asked in a softer tone feeling his heart strings being tugged at. He hadn't had a pupil so soft hearted and fragile before.
06[01:25] * Haruko brought his lips together, and gulped down the trembly feeling in his throat at that word. He nodded his head up and down, gathering his long hair together, and pulling it over one shoulder, combing through it anxiously a moment, in an attempt to regain some composure. "Yes." he replied, in a more confident tone than he felt.
00[01:34] <Zetsumie> Zetsumie offered him the chopsticks and ocne Haruko took them he pulled back Haruko's Hair from his face and pulled it all back and slipped out a leatehr tie and tied it back. It seemed as if Haruko wasn't leaving his lap. Raene sighed softly. "Tonight's going to be a fridgid one... you best shut your door to keep the youngling from catching cold." Raene said trying to lighten the mood. Zetsumie looke odver. "I'm sure a nice hot bath before bed and some hot tea might help warm him up a little. "
[01:40] <Haruko> Haruko, in the meantime, focused on eating his meal, despite feeling a tad... indulged, sitting in his master's lap, having his hair attentively tied back. Of course, the flush on his face was still quite apparent, so he wasn't feeling terribly cold in that moment. Or maybe it was how warm Zetsumie's chest felt against his back. "I wouldn't turn down a bath." He offered, only pausing in
[01:40] <Haruko> diligently consuming his meal for a moment. "I think my knees did more work than my hands cleaning the floor..."
00[01:48] <Zetsumie> "We'll have to teach you how to clean more efficently." Zetsumie said. Raene chuckled. "He cleaned up retty well... He was running back and forth across teh foor when I came... so He was doing it right." Raene offered before looking back toward stheir open door exspectantly. "Kodora's coming..." he said dropping his allready quiet tone of voice downa few notches. Zetsumie stroked Haruko's hair and pet his head lighty in an idol motion. "I see. Thank you Raene." He said softly and after sevral mommenst Haruko could hear foot steps just before some one stepped infront of their door and knocked on teh door frame. "Zetsumie... Tatsuo is looking for you." The nman was flamboyantly dressed iwth payne's grey hair and soft blue eyes. He had a beuty mark on his cheek and a pleasant smile. "Oh is that you new little Student? My he's absolutely adorable Zetsumie." Kodora said seeing the little redhead seated in Zetsumie's lap. "Already have him dressed ofr tonight ehe? Raene cleared his throat. "Kodora-kun would you mind paying a visit to Ichigo and Nekura? It would be very much appreciated. I could use some salve..." Kodora smiled and perked up a bit more. "Sure thing it's really no problem for me and what with the time of day and al I can only imagin teh hassle it would be for eyou I'll head that way now." He turne dto leave. "Kodora." Zetsumie called picking Haruko up and seating him atop the pillow Zetsumie was previously seated. "Allow me to accompany you first I have soemthing I nee dto talk to you about." Zetsumie called as he started out.
[02:05] <Haruko> Haruko was about to stick up for his cleaning skills, when Raene did it for him, and he nodded in agreement, giving Zetsumie a little pout. And, curious as a kitten, he turned his head from the door, to Raene, and back a fwe times, before a knock rang out, wanting to ask how, but keeping quiet. Something in his gut told him it wasn't the time. Perhaps it was the way Zetsumie began to stroke
[02:05] <Haruko> his hair in that comforting way. Haruko was almost a bit afraid, before he caught sight of the pleasant looking man, and relaxed... that was, until the man opened his mouth, and Haruko felt his face warming up again, tipping his head down, and wishing his hair was loose enough to fall in the way, as he toyed with the ends of his sleeves. He didn't look up until he was picked up, and blinked
[02:05] <Haruko> in surprise, gently sweeping his legs to rest at one side, offering him a bit more privacy in the shorter garment. And if only he knew how put out he looked at Zetsumie leaving, he would have schooled his features. But truthfully, he wasn't away of the pout gracing that delicate face of his.
00[02:10] <Zetsumie> Raene set his plate a side once he was finished. "Haruko darling." he called in a soft coo. "After your done eating I want you in bed. I'd liek for you to take a nap before this evening. Understood little one?" Raene asked softly.
[02:16] <Haruko> That pout only seemed to deepen, at the order, thinly veiled as a request. But Haru knew better than to refuse it outright. "I don't feel all that tired... But I'll try." He nodded, taking a long sip of his tea, and setting it down beside his nearly empty plate. Picking up the remaining vegetables his noodles left behind, aside from any onions, he popped them into his mouth and chewed, pushing
[02:16] <Haruko> all the slimy things off to one edge of his plate as he did so. And, finishing his tea completely, he fidgeted a moment in his seat, discretely untucking the back of his yukata, before he stood up. "Thank you Raene." He said, with a little bow of his head. "For being so nice to me. I know you don't have to be."
00[02:43] <Zetsumie> Raene laughed. "Oh don't be so silly... if you ever nee anything dosn't hesitate to ask little one... I'm here to help you." He offered gently. "You may not be tiered but you will be later on and youw ouldn't wnat to be yawning infront of all teh elders and make them thilk that their deciding on your future is boring you ? Sleep will do you good trust me~" He purred. "If you'd like to come with me to see Masao befor eyou nap You're more than welcomed to.
00[02:43] <Zetsumie> " Raene offered.

[Passionate Shadow]

[02:58] <Haruko> Haruko winced at the idea of offending the elders that would be deciding his fate that night, and bit his lower lip anxiously pulling back the blankets. He thought he should nap, in that case... but Masao's fate still worried him a little, and he found himself nodding, and putting the blankets right back into place and smoothing them out. "I'd love to."
00[03:00] <Zetsumie> "Finish your meal and we can go~" He said softly.
06[03:02] * Haruko looked down at his plate and back up, with a confused little frown. "... but I did." He explained, stooping down and picking up his dish. "This one's mine..."
00[03:03] <Zetsumie> "Did you eat everything?" Raene asked softly.
[03:05] <Haruko> That pout crossed Haruko's features once again, so fast it was almost comical. "Everything I wanted to eat." He replied.
00[03:08] <Zetsumie> Raene smiled none the less as he ros eup to his feet He pased By Haruko and paused to pet his head gently. "Alright then. To bed you go little one... I'll be back in a few to check up on you." Raene then moved to pull on his long coat once again.
[03:18] <Haruko> "No, wait!" Haruko just about squeaked, as he saw Raene get ready to leave. He and Zetsumie were so similar in that way. They wouldn't let him argue anything at all! And he had such good arguments, too... Scooping up the bite, he gulped it down with a grimace and a shiver, and lept to his feet. "I'm done." Haru said, a defeated pout clear in his voice
00[03:20] <Zetsumie> Raene chuckled softly. "Then come along little one we'll see him together.' Raene held out his hand in a gesure for Haruko to hurry ahead of himself.
[03:24] <Haruko> Haruko did just that, his bare feet padding along the floor as he hurried ahead of Raene, toward the direction of Masao's room. Though he didn't know precisely which door it was...
00[03:32] <Zetsumie> Raene followed along lieshuerly before pausing just out side a door. They had passed Kodora on their way there and the man offered Haruko a small simple smile before handing Raene a small jar. Raene knocked softly and Masao called gently in response telling them they may enter. Raene slid bck the door and let Haruko step forard first. Masao was laying in bed but slowly sat up as he sawt the door open. "Hello Haruko, Raene." The youth greeted with a small wince.
[03:35] <Haruko> Haruko almost passed the door completely, and hurried back to follow Raene into it, curiously looking at the jar at first... before Masao came into view, looking none too comfortable. Haruko frowned, and hurried forward, coming to a kneel at his bedside. "Masao, you look..."He paused, not wanting to say 'terrible'. "I mean... are you sick?"
00[03:38] <Zetsumie> Masao laughed softly and shook his head. "No I'm not sick... I'm fine Haruko. "He patted the bed inviting Haruko to join him. Raene set the clay jar down on the night stand beside Masao's bed and Masao smiled. "Thank you Raene taht's very thoughtful of you." Masao chirped feeling a very faint blush come to his supper pale features. It was hard to kide any amount of color when you skin had no pigmeant.
[03:42] <Haruko> "You don't look fine. You look like you don't want to move..." Haruko argued, as he took a seat beside Masao's head, and couldn't help but give those long ivory locks a bit of attention, stroking them down the other boy's back. "...hm? See? You are sick!" The redhead pointed to the jar, which looked like nothing less than some sort of medicine. "You shouldn't have worked so hard today..."
00[03:44] <Zetsumie> Masao chuckled softly and set a hand on Haruko's lap. "I'm not sick." He insisted. Next thing Haruko knew he was forced to lay down on Masao's bed and Masao Rested hsi arms on Haruko's belly. if I was sick I wouldn't have been able to do that =w=" He stated and just to prove his point frutther he poked and prodded the side of the boy tickling him a bit. "So how are you feeling?"
06[03:48] * Haruko let out a little yip as he was pulled into place so fast, and blinked up at Masao with an expression nothing short of shocked. The other boy didn't look like he knew how to throw a punch, let alone move that fast. "w...well you might have... And what does it matter what I'm feeling?!" He squeaked indignantly, trying to fend off incoming giggles and failing miserably. "You're in bed
06[03:48] * Haruko in the middle of the day with medicine, you brat! How are [1]you [1]feeling?!"
[email protected]) has joined #At_Night
00[22:02] <@PS> [03:38] <Zetsumie> Masao laughed softly and shook his head. "No I'm not sick... I'm fine Haruko. "He patted the bed inviting Haruko to join him. Raene set the clay jar down on the night stand beside Masao's bed and Masao smiled. "Thank you Raene taht's very thoughtful of you." Masao chirped feeling a very faint blush come to his supper pale features. It was hard to kide any amount of color when you skin had no pigmeant.
00[22:02] <@PS> [03:42] <Haruko> "You don't look fine. You look like you don't want to move..." Haruko argued, as he took a seat beside Masao's head, and couldn't help but give those long ivory locks a bit of attention, stroking them down the other boy's back. "...hm? See? You are sick!" The redhead pointed to the jar, which looked like nothing less than some sort of medicine. "You shouldn't have worked so hard today..."
00[22:02] <@PS> [03:44] <Zetsumie> Masao chuckled softly and set a hand on Haruko's lap. "I'm not sick." He insisted. Next thing Haruko knew he was forced to lay down on Masao's bed and Masao Rested hsi arms on Haruko's belly. if I was sick I wouldn't have been able to do that =w=" He stated and just to prove his point frutther he poked and prodded the side of the boy tickling him a bit. "So how are you feeling?"
00[22:02] <@PS> [03:48] * Haruko let out a little yip as he was pulled into place so fast, and blinked up at Masao with an expression nothing short of shocked. The other boy didn't look like he knew how to throw a punch, let alone move that fast. "w...well you might have... And what does it matter what I'm feeling?!" He squeaked indignantly, trying to fend off incoming giggles and failing miserably. "You're in bed
00[22:02] <@PS> [03:48] * Haruko in the middle of the day with medicine, you brat! How are you feeling?!"
00[22:13] <@PS> "Of coarse it matters how you feel... you're new here... you're like the baby." Masao explained. "I'm not sick and it's the after noon I can rest if I want to." He huffed and poked a little more at Haruko's sides. Masao moved a little and pulled Haruko close hugging him gently at first before tightening his grip. He snuggle din against Haruko's face and kissed his forehead. "You're going to be like a brother to me~ A little brother~" He ruffled Haruko's hair before releasing him. "It matters to me how you're feeling." Masao explained. He failed to mention that Zetsumie had spoken to him privately about being the one to watch out for the little newbie. Masao of course had taken an instantaneous liking to the little red head and agreed to take on the responsibility.
[22:28] <Haruko> Haruko set to blushing prettymuch immediately at that notion, despite squirming about, and letting out little fits of giggling. when Masao pulled him in, that didn't help matters, though it did make him feel just a little fluttery inside. u///u It had been some time that he was living on his own, and the more often his new 'family' grew affectionate, the more he realized how much he'd missed
[22:28] <Haruko> close contact. And at the mention of gaining a new older brother, his stomach dropped enough to make him feel a bit ill, and he had to push away the sentiment before he grew emotional. He knew Masao was being kind to him. He didn't want to dampen that gesture. "I'm feeling fine! Nothing has happened since this afternoon when you asked me. Now you answer mine." He insisted, giving the albino
[22:28] <Haruko> boy a little pout. And, since Masao had squeezed the answer out of him, he returned the favor, wrapping his arms, and his legs around the other boy, unfortunately grazing a certain part of him that likely wasn't feeling too good with his foot.
[22:29] <Haruko> with his knee* derp.
00[22:33] <@PS> Masao gitt his teeth but smiled none the less for a moment. He cleared his thought with a well practiced cough and sighed gently. "I wasn't being very smart and I ended up hurting my self earlier." Masao explained simply petting the top and back of Haruko's head. "Now Haruko I think I need a little bit of time to recover." Masao explained. "And well I think you could use a rest before tonight's big event. After all you did do a lot of work to day for such a small boy I'm pretty impressed you were able to get the room so spotless." Masao praised with a weak smile.
03[22:33] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
[22:40] <@Haruko> "Hurting yourself how?" Haru asked, concern washing over his features, as he loosened his grip. He didn't want to hurt the poor guy more. "oh... That's alright, I can let you sleep if you'd like." He pulled away a bit, a little more reluctant to leave that comforting embrace than he cared to admit. And again, that sheepish look crossed his features at that praise. "Thanks... It wasn't that
[22:40] <@Haruko> hard." He fibbed, shaking his head. And sitting up, he pulled the blanket back up over Masao's shoulders, scooting the jar a little closer to the edge of the table, so he could reach it easier. "I'll go and sleep, so you can do the same. See you later. Maybe to go swimming, like we were talking about before." ^^; he offered, wanting to leave on a bright note.
00[23:11] <@PS> "Alright Haruko 'll take you out when you're allowed." Masao Promised pulling apillow closer and snuggling in. Raene stood quietly witha silent yet faint grin lacing his features hearing the two talk. It was a good thing Haruko had soem one his own age to talk to.
[23:14] <@Haruko> "I hope you feel better soon." He added, quietly, as he made his way out of the room, looking far more ponderous than he did going into it. Masao seemed well enough, when they were playing. So he couldn't have broken or sprained anything. u.u; but it was rude to pry, if the other boy didn't want to talk about it... Perhaps Raene or Zetsumie would tell him...
00[23:24] <@PS> Raene lead Haruko out and back to Zetsumie's room. He walked oevr to the bed and pulled back the blankets. "Go on a head and hop in little one." He called softly.
[23:29] <@Haruko> Haruko slid under the covers easily enough, but didn't close his eyes just yet. "... Will Masao really be okay?" He asked, with just a bit of hesitation.
00[23:30] <@PS> "he'll be perfectly fine." Raene promised.
[23:31] <@Haruko> "But what happened? He wouldn't tell me... Will it heal quickly? Will it scar?" The boy just looked terribly concerned. :<
00[23:39] <@PS> "He just got introuble kinda like you did during lunch." Raene covered Haruko up and tucked the bolanket around his tiny form. "Would you like to talk about getting introuble?"
[23:43] <@Haruko> "He..." Haruko's brow furrowed a bit in confusion for precisely three seconds, before his mind cought up with that thought. "he got... Really?! But he didn't...He didn't get into trouble without proof?!" Hau squeaked indignantly!
03[23:45] * Haruko is now known as Haruko|BRB
00[23:45] <@PS> Raene took a seat and set a ahnd atop Haruko's head. "Hush... I'm sure the both of you have been a little too excited today and well excited kiddies leads to not so great ideas... wouldn't you agree?"
[23:46] <@Haruko|BRB> "But Masao isn't!" He began, before catching his tongue, wanting to avoid any further trouble. "It just isn't fair... I thought you adults were in charge because you cared about things like that..." He mumbled, turning away from Raene, and feeling just a touch betrayed on masao's behalf.
Session Time: Fri Oct 11 00:00:00 2013
00[00:04] <@PS> Raene tsked shaking his head slowly. "We do care... " he trailed in a soft exhailed breath. "It's not something you and I should be talking about - neither of us were there." Raene added softly. "I'm sure Kyosuke wouldn't do anything Rash with out reason." he offered sypathetically. "Calm your self sweet ling and just relax soon you'll be able to rest."
03[00:45] * Haruko|BRB is now known as Haruko
[00:48] <@Haruko> Haruko only sighed, and folded his arms, giving the wall a rather unhappy look. "I am calm. I just know that Masao wouldn't do something terrible enough to warrant it." But upon reflection, he himself had done very little wrong, and had earned two sessions over Zetsumie's lap, not to mention that little slap across his cheek. So... Perhaps it was slightly possible. His expression softened at
[00:48] <@Haruko> that notion, and he visibly relaxed with a little sigh. "I'll rest. I just don't like it..."
ode: +o Haruko
03[18:51] * Retrieving #At_Night modes...
03[18:51] * Matthew sets mode: +s
00[18:51] <@Matthew> <@PS> Raene tsked shaking his head slowly. "We do care... " he trailed in a soft exhailed breath. "It's not something you and I should be talking about - neither of us were there." Raene added softly. "I'm sure Kyosuke wouldn't do anything Rash with out reason." he offered sypathetically. "Calm your self sweet ling and just relax soon you'll be able to rest."
00[18:51] <@Matthew> * Haruko|BRB is now known as Haruko
00[18:51] <@Matthew> <@Haruko> Haruko only sighed, and folded his arms, giving the wall a rather unhappy look. "I am calm. I just know that Masao wouldn't do something terrible enough to warrant it." But upon reflection, he himself had done very little wrong, and had earned two sessions over Zetsumie's lap,
00[18:51] <@Matthew> not to mention that little slap across his cheek. So... Perhaps it was slightly possible. His expression softened at
00[18:51] <@Matthew> <@Haruko> that notion, and he visibly relaxed with a little sigh. "I'll rest. I just don't like it..."
00[19:28] <@Matthew> The blind male nodded softly with a soft chuckle. He pet the top of those flaming locks and pushed the bangs back softly and sighed. "Sweet dreams Little One." Raene purred softly before exiting the room. It would be several hours before Zetsumie would return dressed in black with a dark red and black Fox mask tied firmly in front of his face. He pulled back the covers and paused silently admiring the image before him. Haruko looked like an angel sprawled out on the bed with his bright flaming red locks sprawled out around him. ". . . "
[19:35] <@Haruko> "Thank you..." Haruko called after him, snuggling down under his covers a bit more, and feeling momentarily better at that feeling. He loved when people played with his hair. u.u And despite feeling a bit apprehensive, he fell asleep without much trouble at all, having worked so hard that morning, and his chest rose and fell slowly, and nearly silently for some time before Zetsumie returned.
[19:35] <@Haruko> The carefree boy, who had never had cause to sleep lightly, dozed through the sound of the door opening, and Zetsumie padding toward him. He simply turned onto his side and curled up a bit more.
00[19:50] <@Matthew> Zetsumie reached out the back of his hand to caress the side of Haruko's pale cheek. He slipped his fingers in to the bangs of that long red hair gliding through the soft tresses and pushing the hair back from his face and ears. The dark male fell to one knee and carefully pulled the lad up in to his arms and rested Haruko's head against his chest and should. The other arm was beneath Haruko's knees. " Fox Sacred Fox, Light-footed like the wind, The symbol of oneness, Teach us, Fox, to love life." Zetsumie cooed softly in a mellow song voice. Quietly as he walked he repeated the small song before adding in the poem that was read to Haruko just out side the compound. Soft lanterns dimly lit his path as he carried the lad through darkened silent hallways. The young fox cried
00[19:50] <@Matthew> looking at the sky, up on kurai mountainso take a peek insideit can't be denied,it's here where the drake and Tiger meet on a lonely street on a dark lonely night a thousand needles circling a burning light, a flower's in the hand that holds the chopsticks, beware there may be a few scary tricks, I am but a messenger who brings the tragic tale, heed my words you who may try to steal my treasure, for I'll haunt you forever and ever"
[20:07] <@Haruko> Haruko turned into that caress, like a kitten feeling blindly for it's mother in mid-slumber. Though as he was pulled up into Zetsumie's arms, he let out a small noise, separated from the warmth of those blankets, and curled into his body, to absorb the heat there. From that point on, he wasn't sure what was a dream, and what was reality, vaguely aware of his body moving, a soft melody in
[20:07] <@Haruko> his ears, as his eyes debated whether they were ready to open, long lashes fluttering here and there, before settling down once again, those purple orbs barely visible, with the drowzy feeling of comfortable confusion.
00[20:18] <@Matthew> Zetsumie Carried the lad along looking down at him here and there through his mask. His eyes not visible behind such a facade. Soon they were out side in the darkness of night and tree topped canopies passing over head obscuring the partly cloudy sky. Starlight kept their path lit and Zetsumie carried the lad in to a clearing filled with statues and other stone monuments in minuscule size. He carried the boy up to a separate building that was out of the way and carried him in through the entrance that had two large Statues of Foxes guarding the entrance. There were also two masked figured dressed in dark garb who where standing there each with a decorative fox mask both highly different than each other in decor and shape. Zetsumie carried the lad further in to the building and carefully made his way through a floor panel system being very careful what mats he stepped on and soon went through a secret passage. down the long narrow hallways he carried the boy to a dark, dimly light room where several figurers sat their faces obscurer by shadows and fox masks. Their figures were mostly silhouette and Zetsumie stood Haruko down in what appeared to be like a spot light with in the center of the room. He took to standing beside the lad in the shadowed area and took up Haruko's hand in his own.
[20:28] <@Haruko> More and more, Haruko woke from his dazed state, as they moved further and further from the home he'd come to know in the past few days. By the time they had entered the room, his eyes were wide open, and his expression was nothing short of bewildered. It was so strange that, despite being frightened, he couldn't seem to find his voice at all, to shout, or find the strength to make a fuss.
[20:28] <@Haruko> Everything was so quiet and calm that it had seemed a great sin to break that, even as his heart beat loudly in his chest. And as he was set onto his own two feet, and a pair of trembling legs, he couldn't help but feel inclined to move a bit closer to the one who had brought him in, and now held his hand, pure instinct kicking in at a moment where he'd have liked to turn tail and run until
[20:28] <@Haruko> he couldn't run anymore.
00[20:43] <@Matthew> A elder man's voice spoke up. "Welcome Haruko... Welcome to your trial." He called making hands gestures. The room was filled with Smokey incense and it swirled about thanks to the sudden movements. "Are you prepared to become Zetsumie Aku's young Kohai?" Zetsumie glaced down to Haruko and gently stroked hsi thumb over teh back of the lad's hand hoping to comfort him. Haruko lookedas if he'd seena ghost or something!
[20:50] <@Haruko> Haruko jumped as a voice filled the room. It had seemed so long since Zetsumie's poem, a silence as thick as the smoke that filled the air, daring someone far bolder than he to break it. And at those words, reality seemed to come crashing down onto him, along with a sudden understanding of the situation. At the question, he glanced up at the masked figure holding his hand, coming to understand
[20:50] <@Haruko> all the more, this time, comforted by that knowledge. And, taking in a deep breath, he said as confidently as he could manage, "...Yes." Adding in a nod, "Yes, Sir."
00[21:01] <@Matthew> Zetsumie you understand that by accepting this boy as your new Kohai you are accepting the responsibilities. and you understand what will happen should you fail once again?" Zetsumie's voice rang out clear and gruff in his usual tone no long that serene sweet soothing tone he used to sing to little Haruko. "I understand and fully accept the responsibilities that are being entrusted to me." Zetsumie stated before immediately a n irate woman's voice snapped at him. "Do you Tenshi?" Zetsumie responded immediately. "I FULLY accept all the responsibility entrusted to me. " He repeated . Another man's voice spoke up. "Haruko by joining our clan you must abide by our codes. " The first voice then spoke up once again. "Our code is as follows. 1) You must not stray from the code.
00[21:01] <@Matthew> 2) You must obey all clan rules
00[21:01] <@Matthew> 3) Desertion is not permitted
00[21:01] <@Matthew> 4) You will not raise funds without permission
00[21:01] <@Matthew> 5) You will not take up litigious matters without permission
00[21:01] <@Matthew> 6) Private conflicts are not permitted
00[21:01] <@Matthew> 7) Act for the clan, not yourself.
00[21:01] <@Matthew> Shoul you stray from teh code understand taht you will be subjective to punitive mesures and even be subject to penalty of death." Silence followed allowing that thought to sink in. Zetsumie stroked Haruko's hand onceagain hoping the lad would choose yes.
[21:10] <@Haruko> Haruko looked back and fourth from Zetsumie to the obscured faces that seemed to berate him with questions. When his own voice was called out, he snapped to attention, and focused every bit of it on the two speaking voices. and though there were a few words he didn't know the meaning of, he didn't interrupt, looking as attentive and serious as a boy his age could. The word 'death' dropped
[21:10] <@Haruko> his stomach down so quickly and violently, it was evident on his features for a short moment. And, after a moment, his eyes drifted from the council, to Zetsumie's mask-covered face, before he nodded, and spoke out a rather determined, "Yes. I accept."
00[21:58] <@Matthew> "The Clan Rules are as follows ; Clan Rules
00[21:58] <@Matthew> 1. Never betray the clan. Truth (espionage/spy) and honor (assassination) are the core of the ninja. You must be entirely loyal to your clan.
00[21:58] <@Matthew> 2. Accomplish the mission; failure is not an option.
00[21:58] <@Matthew> The way of life is all about making the mission successful at virtually any cost.
00[21:58] <@Matthew> 3. Put the clan and the mission before yourself.
00[21:58] <@Matthew> When working in a team environment, focus on the mission over your personal needs.
00[21:58] <@Matthew> 4. Escape if captured (no excuses).
00[21:58] <@Matthew> [Stealth. Speed. Nimble action. They’re all actions of the ninja. If you get stuck in your mission or captured by an adversity, reject, re-focus, and re-purpose! A ninja held prisoner is soon a dead ninja!
00[21:58] <@Matthew> 5. Kill only when necessary for survival.
00[21:58] <@Matthew> [If threatened by conflict, competition or failure the ninja will always strive to redirect the end to his favor through any means necessary. And only as a last resort, he will go for the death blow.
00[21:58] <@Matthew> 6. Avoid striking a member of the same ry (school). " Came a new maasculine voice yet it had a more pleasant ring to hit and it's tone. "Do you solemnely swear to follow the Clan's rules?" Came teh first voice once again. Zetsumie was silent as the spoke to Haruko. but hsi grip tightened none the less. "Please state you full name here and now to be recorded that you willingly accept the new future that is being bestowed uppon you." Came teh woman's voice in a much calmer tone.
[22:15] <@Haruko> At these rules, haruko looked visibly nervous, squeezing his grip more tightly around Zetsumie's hand, not liking the sound of that at all. It was as if he were agreeing to jump directly into danger blindly, or be cast out then and now. But... hadn't Zetsumie promised to keep him safe from harm? Hadn't he promised Haruko had nothing to worry about? Before he knew it, he was nodding. "H..."
[22:15] <@Haruko> He swallowed, and began again, forcing his voice out. "Haruko Ando." It was plain for anyone to see that he wasn't pleased to be there, and wanted desperately to escape the many mysterious eyes that rested on him.
00[22:27] <@Matthew> "State your age." Came the next order. Zetsumie wanted to comfort teh lad but remained silent and grit his teeth for the time being.
[22:32] <@Haruko> "Fifteen years old." Haruko replied, fighting off the urge to move behind Zetsumie, as if he were a great protective wall that could shield him from all of this excitement and tension. It was all too much. But all he could do was scoot a bit closer to his side.
00[22:35] <@Matthew> The sound s of a brush against parchmeant came before oen of teh darkened figured moved and witha flash of light and a burst of smok firee was lit in a fire pit lighting up the room bringing colors of their vibrant clothing in to sight. "Then shed your Old life and step in to your new one." Zetsumie stepped behind Haruko setting his hands on the boy's shoudlers before he leaned down and whispered. "Take off your clothes and drop them in to the fire."
[22:40] <@Haruko> Haruko gasped, taking a half-step back in surprise, and setting his free hand over his heart. He gaped at Zetsumie with about as much horror as he had worn when they first entered the room, giving his head a small shake. He couldn't... He simply didn't have the ability! Not with so many people around! He didn't even want to in front of only Zetsumie!
00[22:42] <@Matthew> "Then close your eyes." Zetsumie whispered.
[22:46] <@Haruko> Haruko took in a deep breath, and did as he was told, closing his eyes, and trying to forget about anyone else around him. His fingers fumbled with the sash around his waist, eventually loosening it... though his hands froze as he moved to pull the yukata off of his shoulders. Why did they have to do this anyhow? It wasn't as if they were even his clothes, or part of his old life! They were
[22:46] <@Haruko> just as much a part of his new life as anything else! >///<;
00[22:49] <@Matthew> "Go on." Zetsumie coaxed gently. He pulled out the black silk Yukata from inside his own coat getting ready to wrap Haruko in it.
[22:54] <@Haruko> In one fast motion, Haruko pulled the fabric from his body, and approached the flames, feeling them far too hot against his bare skin, as he dropped the garment into them. He had to open his eyes not to endanger himself, but he kept his gaze fixed on the charring fabric.
00[22:56] <@Matthew> "Last bit..." Zetsumie called very softly as he moved toopen up the black robe like materia ready to slip it on to Haruko's shoulders. Ah yes Haruko was going to have to take of that last little bit of scrap was going to have to go too. "You're doing good your almost done. " Zetsumie coaxed softly.
[23:02] <@Haruko> Haruko's face immediately colored, his pale complexion making it absolutely clear that he was in no way comfortable in that moment. In his mind, he told himself how many young people were in the village's walls. How many had surely gone through this ceremony just recently! He told himself how many times all these people had seen this... and it still didn't make his hands move. he was frozen
00[23:03] <@Matthew> "Do you need help?" Zetsumie asked softly.
[23:09] <@Haruko> Haruko shook his head, shutting his eyes again, this time because they started to get a prickly feeling, and the last thing he wanted was to be naked and crying in front of all these people. worst of all, not able to do it by himself! So, tipping his head down, covering his face at the very least, he leaned down, and worked the small bit of fabric down his legs with visibly trembling fingers,
[23:09] <@Haruko> before he tossed it into the flame as well, clasping his hands together protectively before him. He hadn't opened them up again yet. He didn't think he could bear to see anyone looking at him.
00[23:15] <@Matthew> Zetsumie brought the black fabric forwards. "Slide your arms in." Zetsumie whispered as the elder's seemed to clap applauding Haruko's little task. Once Haruko was in Zetsumie would tie the robes shut. It wa sthen Zetsumie was adressed. "Zetsumie- take care of your new charge... Failure is not acceptable." Zetsumie have a solemn nod before as he set a large hand on the back of Haruko's shoulders. Zetsumie Removed his mask. "Hold this." He offered it to Haruko. No one else in teh room removed their masks. "I will take care of him." He stated ratehr sure of himself. "Teach your Student well." With taht Zetsumie staretd to usher Haruko back wards as he stepped back not daring to turn his back on the elders and tugged Haruko back o teh exit. He bowed and tapped Haruko on the shoulder as if telling him to do the same.
[23:23] <@Haruko> Haruko immediately did as he was told, sliding his arms into the silken fabric easily enough, and once it was in place, only then did he open his glassy eyes, to see how similarly the two of them were dressed, the act's symbolism not lost on him in the stressful moment. As the mask was placed into his hands, Haruko looked down at it, rubbing his thumbs delicately along the markings painted
[23:23] <@Haruko> there. He nearly turned around as they made to exit, but seeing Zetsumie walking backwards, did the same, adding in as low a bow as he could manage, the ends of his fiery hair touching the floor. "Thank you." Was his genuine reply, though he hadn't considered it might have been appropriate to say nothing at all.
00[23:26] <@Matthew> Zetsumie lead Haruko out of teh building and pas the two guards. They were once again in the forest in no time taht's when Zetsumie pulled Haruko close and knelt hugging him close. "You did well... I'm proud of your obediance." Zetsumie said gently. "And your curage."
[23:34] <@Haruko> Haruko let out a deep sigh of relief as they exited the building, and settled both hands over his heart, that still seemed to be beating too fast. When they stopped suddenly, he frowned, sure that Zetsumie was about to scold him for not listening in front of the elders... but to his surprise, he was pulled into a warm, calming hug, instead. "... Thank you." Haruko said on an outward breath,
[23:34] <@Haruko> the words more wind than voice. Swallowing down the apprehension that had been plagueing him since they entered that building, he spoke a bit more clearly. "I... I thought...." He shook his head. "because I didn't listen..." And seemingly making the decision that it didn't matter, wrapped his arms around Zetsumie in return, hanging on perhaps a bit too tightly.
00[23:52] <@Matthew> "No one's going to hurt you while I'm around.... Remember that." Zetsumie pet Haruko's head. He wasn't ushually this affectionate or touchy with his charges but Witha ll the circumstances Zetsumie was feeling the need to create a much stronegr bodn with Haruko and teh way the boy was so sensitive seemed to pull Zetsumie mroe and more in to this 'weakness'
[23:56] <@Haruko> Haruko smiled at that, for the first time since that afternoon, and let his head rest on Zetsumie's shoulder as the man's hands ran down his silky locks. "I'll remember... it's the only reason I didn't run right out of that place." Haru admitted, as he twisted a bit of Zetsumie's hair loosely around one finger.
00[23:59] <@Matthew> "Now then... Lesson Number one." Zetsumie scooped Haruko up in to his arms and carrie dthe bout out furtehr till he came to a larger clearing and a medow. He carried Haruko up a hill and set him down a top a large smooth bolder before seating himself down beside Haruko. The clouds had cleared from the sky and teh stars were shinning brightly. "It takes Balance to make a good warrior." Zetsumie purred softly. "Haruko you are buta boy now... It's my job to make a man out of you..." he trailed letting that sink in for a few momments. "I'll help guide you along the path in to becoming a great man, Haruko. " He assured.
Session Time: Sun Oct 13 00:00:00 2013
[00:07] <@Haruko> Haruko let out a small noise as he was lifted up,and hung on tighter around Zetsumie's shoulders. Normally, he would protest the treatment, but at the moment, he was keen to feel just a bit taken care of, and safe, and Zetsumie's arms were among the safest places he'd been. At least, it seemed that way. He hadn't even flinched amongst those elders. Haru smoothed the robe down over his legs
[00:07] <@Haruko> as they hit the chilly rock below him, and curled them up a bit, wrapping his arms around them, as he listened, not saying much at all, at first. "... but how do you know? That I can be a warrior, that is... I don't like hurting people." Truthfully, he had never been in a fight where his brother hadn't chased off the other boy on his behalf. "I can't even smash bugs without feeling awful."
[00:07] <@Haruko> He sighed, and tucked a bit of hair behind his ear. "It's a little hopeless...'
00[00:12] <@Matthew> "Haruko my boy there is much mor eto fighting than hurting others... if anything I'll teach you to be a protector... and not a fighter." Zetsumie explained as he leaned back looking to the stars abouve. " look there Haruko... the stars are even smiling uppon you." He offered softly. "I'll be your teacher, your Master... Abouve all you awnser to me despite the fact the elders and council members out rank me... Even if Masao asks that you do something and it gioes against my orders or wishes you'll do what tell you...Some may try to trick you and test what you have come to know. Do not let them fool you I am teh only one you need tow orry about. "
[00:30] <@Haruko> Haruko brightened almost immediately, eyes full of curious attention as he looked up at the night sky. "I'll do my best." He nodded. "I know that you're the reason I'm not shoveling out mines all day breaking my back, or stuck with some... some low-life, who would kill me or worse..." he'd heard of people sold for... 'breeding', and that was not a life he wanted. "And I don't take that kindness
[00:30] <@Haruko> lightly. There.... are very few people who would have given me a life that would be my own." He leaned against Zetsumie's side lightly. "Your word is the one I value. I promise."
00[00:40] <@Matthew> "Good." Zetsumie said as he stood up but moved so that Haruko could climb on for a piggy back ride. "Hop on." He said gently. "It's far past your bed time and you'll be getting up early tomorrow morning. " Zetsumie explained. "I've promised you a day of rest tomorrow However if you choose to I'll also permit you to go with Masao instead." Zetsumie explained softly.
[00:42] <@Haruko> Haruko's smile widened, as he saw the familiar position for the first time in over a year, and jumped carefully onto Zetsumie's back, wrapping his legs around his master's waist, and his arms around Zetsumie's neck. "What will Masao be doing?" He asked, before realizing something. "... What'll you be doing? Could I go with you?" Truthfully, he didn't know what Zetsumie did with his own spare
[00:42] <@Haruko> time.
02[04:19] * Disconnected

00[22:29] <@Matthew> [00:12] <@Matthew> "Haruko my boy there is much mor eto fighting than hurting others... if anything I'll teach you to be a protector... and not a fighter." Zetsumie explained as he leaned back looking to the stars abouve. " look there Haruko... the stars are even smiling uppon you." He offered softly. "I'll be your teacher, your Master... Abouve all you awnser to me despite the fact the elders and council members out rank me... Even if Masao asks that you do something and it gioes against my orders or wishes you'll do what tell you...Some may try to trick you and test what you have come to know. Do not let them fool you I am teh only one you need tow orry about. "
00[22:29] <@Matthew> [00:30] <@Haruko> Haruko brightened almost immediately, eyes full of curious attention as he looked up at the night sky. "I'll do my best." He nodded. "I know that you're the reason I'm not shoveling out mines all day breaking my back, or stuck with some... some low-life, who would kill me or worse..." he'd heard of people sold for... 'breeding', and that was not a life he wanted. "And I don't take that kindness
00[22:29] <@Matthew> [00:30] <@Haruko> lightly. There.... are very few people who would have given me a life that would be my own." He leaned against Zetsumie's side lightly. "Your word is the one I value. I promise."
00[22:29] <@Matthew> [00:40] <@Matthew> "Good." Zetsumie said as he stood up but moved so that Haruko could climb on for a piggy back ride. "Hop on." He said gently. "It's far past your bed time and you'll be getting up early tomorrow morning. " Zetsumie explained. "I've promised you a day of rest tomorrow However if you choose to I'll also permit you to go with Masao instead." Zetsumie explained softly.
00[22:29] <@Matthew> [00:42] <@Haruko> Haruko's smile widened, as he saw the familiar position for the first time in over a year, and jumped carefully onto Zetsumie's back, wrapping his legs around his master's waist, and his arms around Zetsumie's neck. "What will Masao be doing?" He asked, before realizing something. "... What'll you be doing? Could I go with you?" Truthfully, he didn't know what Zetsumie did with his own spare
00[22:29] <@Matthew> [00:42] <@Haruko> time.
00[22:48] <@Matthew> Zetsumie wrapped his arms around Haruko's knees helping secure the smaller. He smiled hearing as the lad caught on to his schemes a little early. "Well little Haruko Masao will be doing errands for me... I need to speak with the council myself tomorrow morning so I'll be busy. You are not allowed to come with me to that one... I'll have lessons for you later on in the day. " Zetsumie explained. "Masao will be going in to town for me. If you'd like to go along I'll give you some coin so that you two can get yourselves a nice breakfast. " Zetsumie said trying to make the idea of going in to town sound much more appealing. "And I supposes you'd like some clothing of your own? I think I have some coin for that as well. You'll be needing some nicer clothing aside from your work set. " Zetsumie explained.
[23:08] <@Haruko> "What do you have to speak to the council about? We didn't do anything wrong just now, did we?" Haruko asked, curiously, a small hint of worry in his tone. "I'd love to go with Masao, if I can." he added on, his voice brightening at the mention of 'normal' errands. It was always his favorite to go into town with his brother. More than one shop keeper was guilty of tempting him with 'sampling'
[23:08] <@Haruko> their delicious wares, though he didn't have any money of his own to buy them. "I would like my own clothing, if it's not too much... but what exactly will I need nice clothes for?" he wondered, hoping that his new life would be as social as his last. He liked to have free time on his own.
00[23:36] <@Matthew> "You'll need them for a formal event or just going in to town for leisure... you wouldn't want to wear your rough work out clothing all the time now would you?" Zetsumie asked as he carried the boy back to the Compound. "I have matters which need to be dealt with- It's not of your concern Little One and I hope that you keep your curious little nose to yourself "Zetsumie added. "You can get more normal clothing as well little one. You'll be going with Masao so you can get what you like. Because we live near a trade port there's lots of variety."
00[23:36] <@Matthew>
[23:42] <@Haruko> "Not at all." Haruko wrinkled his nose a bit at the notion of going absolutely everywhere looking as if he were getting ready to scrub the floors beneath everyone's feet the minute they walked away. And he was about to protest, that it wouldn't do any harm to tell him, he wouldn't go around telling Zetsumie's secrets to everyone, but the idea of a trading port caught his attention quickly
[23:42] <@Haruko> enough. "I've never been to a big market like that. I always had to stay home, because it's was an overnight trip." he mused, very close to zetsumie's ear with their position. He was careful not to be too loud, though that wasn't much of a concern most of the time. "Could I get something strange if I wanted?" He grinned mischeviously. "Could I follow you around in a tiger-striped robe, and
[23:42] <@Haruko> a pink hat? Would it bother you?" ^^ Clearly, he was becoming far more comfortable with Zetsumie, very quickly.
00[23:57] <@Matthew> "Not in the least. . . I have a tiger stripped robe you can wear already." Setsumie offered softly. The soon reache dteh gates and Zetsumie carried Haruko bakc to their room. He plopped teh boy down on to the bed and started to take of his heavier over coverings. "What ever you like. "
Session Time: Tue Oct 15 00:00:00 2013
[00:01] <@Haruko> "Really?" Haruko just about squeaked in surprise. Zetsumie didn't strike him as the sort of person who was ornimental enough to own such a thing. "I was only kidding anyhow. Really, I don't like to be very flashy at all." He made sure to clarify as soon as possible. The last thing he wanted was for Zetsumie to act kindly to him, and give him something he wouldn't like or use. "Blending in is
[00:01] <@Haruko> better for a ninja anyhow... right?"
00[00:02] <@Matthew> "You needn't worry about buissness clothing.... Haruko look down at what's in your hands... do you understand what that is?"
[00:04] <@Haruko> Haruko glanced down at the mask, and turned it over in his hands, taking the time once again to admire it's craftsmanship. "... A mask?" he offered, weakly, knowing there must be more to it than that, if Zetsumei were asking that way.
00[00:06] <@Matthew> Zetsumie took a seat nextto Haruko and wrapped an arm around him puling him close and rubbing Haruko's outter ar," Yes it's a mask. Do you know what it is for?" He asked softly.
[00:09] <@Haruko> Haruko shook his head, as he smiled a little, looking up at Zetsumie, instead of the mask. "I bet it's for ceremonies though, right?"
00[00:10] <@Matthew> "Partially... Do you know why every one's mask is differn't?" he asked gently.
[00:12] <@Haruko> Again, the boy shook his head, but spoke his mind as an idea came to it. "Because everyone makes their own? Like me making that fan?" Once again, his thumb stroked over a bit of painted detail.
00[00:18] <@Matthew> "Yes. You will eventually make your own mask as well." Zetsumie offered. "Look at mine and comiite it's image to memmory. " Zetsumie instructed. "You'll come to know it is me by this mask." He explained softly. "When you get your right of passage you'll be making your own mask." He offered softly.
[00:20] <@Haruko> "But why do I have to know it? Won't you be able to tell me who you are?" Haruko asked, as he did just as he was asked, taking in it's color, and shape, and the detailing that lined it's surface. "... Is it going to be a test?" He wondered just how tricky these tests and temptations could become...
00[00:32] <@Matthew> "Not always. you'll have to learn these sutble differences." Zetsumie gently took the mask from Haruko's hands and moved it up to the head baord of the bed. "But you'll have plenty of time for that for now." Zetsumie laid back in the bed and pulled Haruko up with him snuggling nice and close. "It's time to go back to sleep ~!" He squished teh smaller a little before loosening his hold.
[00:37] <@Haruko> Haruko began to protest as the mask was taken out of his hands, that he needed more time! but... as it was placed on the headboard, he closed his lips again. Once again, he smiled as Zetsumie pulled him in quite willingly, and gave him a squeeze. He couldn't have imagined feeling so safe and comfortable in the man's arms on their way into the village, but here they were. He turned over, so
[00:37] <@Haruko> he was facing the taller, and put an arm around him as well, before shutting his eyes with a contented sigh. "Alright." He agreed easily enough, despite the fact that he wasn't sleepy yet. Alot had happened that day, and it was nice to just relax there.
00[00:39] <@Matthew> Zetsumie pulled the covers up over teh two of them and snuggle din close knowing full well with the winter ocming it was going to be very cold in the evenings. It really didn't take Zetsumie long to find peacefull rest.
[00:42] <@Haruko> Haruko squirmed here and there, as he tried to make himself fall asleep. But eventually, afraid of keeping his master up, he carefully and quietly slipped downward, out of his grasp, and slid out from under their blankets, with a little shiver. Providing Zetsumie hadn't stirred himself, the boy made his way to their door, to have a walk until his mind had settled enough to rest.
00[00:46] <@Matthew> Haruko would find that there were absolutely no lights on at this hours. it was very late and the moon was all that provided light. It was so quiet this time of year at night not an animal sound at all called out. All Haruko could hear was the howling of the wind and the benching of trees that surrounded the Compound. It appeared as though not a soul insight was awake.
[00:53] <@Haruko> As his walk took a more eerie turn than he had expected, Haruko wondered if he might have an easier time relaxing in their room... His feet pattered on the hard floors, as he strolled down the hallway, and observed the still, dark emptyness of it all. It was as if the whole world shifted to a different plane once this time of night fell. All the same, his curiousity drove him forward, to step
[00:53] <@Haruko> out of doors, and take a stroll around the outside of their building, as to not wake anyone with his quiet, but not silent footsteps.
00[00:56] <@Matthew> For a while Haruko's walk went undisturbed. That is untill his soft movemeants caught the attention of osme one whom was still awake. raene listened carefully from the roof he was on He moved to stand silent as a ghost as he started to follow only on a higher levle. He'd be quiet an just listen for now.
[01:00] <@Haruko> The grass was lightly damp beneath his feet, and chilled them, as he walked. Following the path nearest to him, he made his way toward a large tree, that looked like it was sprinkled with at least two dozen ripe, juicy plums, gazing up at it contemplatively. He stood there a solid minute, before taking two big steps forward, hopping in place, and snatching one free from it's branch. Because
[01:00] <@Haruko> it was so late in the season, it came free easily, and just about filled his small palm. He wiped away some debris from it's flesh, and rubbed it on his robe a moment.
00[01:03] <@Matthew> "Child." came Raene's calm soothing voice from the roof top before haruko. He was dressed in all white silk robes. The moon light creating a glimmering shimmer uppon Raene's robes wcausing the man to look ghastly in the night. "What are you doing ?" He called softly.
[01:08] <@Haruko> Haruko's gasp echoed into the empty darkness, as he turned to face the voice that called to him, eyes wide, hair fluttering in the light breeze. "I... I wasn't feeling tired. So I'm going for a walk." He explained, suddenly feeling like he'd done something very wrong. The plum was the first thing to cross his mind, of course. "I thought... there are so many, and they're bound to just fall
[01:08] <@Haruko> soon..." Haru began to explain himself, in a small voice. His old life was so lax, and people were so willing to share, he didn't have an instinct to ask.
00[01:11] <@Matthew> "You shoudl be in bet Little Haruko." Raene called simply. The blind hopped down from the roof witha grace beffitting a cat when he landed sevral feet infront of Haruko. "Weather you're tiered or not." He stated calmly as he drew near.
[01:18] <@Haruko> "I was!" Haruko replied, dropping his snack to the ground as he stepped back in surprise. He was certain Raene might break an ankle doing that! He certainly would! "And I will be... It's only that I... I had such a long nap before..."
00[01:20] <@Matthew> Raene fell to his knee and plucked up the treat Haruko wnated and dusted it offbefore reaching out and scooping Haruko up under the arms. "You should still be in bed." Raene said gently handing Haruko the plum as he balance the boy on on arm and his hip.
[01:26] <@Haruko> Haruko felt he hadn't been carried about so much since he was five years old. And with a blush, he took the salvaged fruit and looked down as he turned it over in his hands, keeping quiet for a short time. It took a bit more courage to muster up an argument in such a position. "I didn't want to wake Zetsumie... I couldn't help but wiggle around... And If I walked, I could make myself tired.
[01:26] <@Haruko> What's the harm in that?" Though Raene hadn't scolded or chastised him at all, he felt a bit in disgrace. u///u
00[01:29] <@Matthew> "It's against the house rules Little Haruko... " Raene sighed as he carried Haruko back towards tehw ooden deck. "Should the night guard have caught sight of you- you may have taken an arrow or two."Raene explained gently. "I should tell Zetsumie about how Naughty you're behaving." Raene added in. The word should sort of stcuk there for a momment as if Raene were pondering what would be the appropriate corse of action.
[01:37] <@Haruko> Haruko clutched the round fruit to his chest, as if he were imagining an arrow wound there, and didn't look pleased at all by that mental image. And rather desperately, Haruko shook his head, giving Raene his most sincere set of pleading puppy eyes. "I didn't know it was against the rules! And I won't go out again! Please don't tell, he's so happy with me today! I don't want to ruin it!" His
[01:37] <@Haruko> stomach felt like someone had dropped a weight onto it, and his heart fluttered anxiously. He didn't want Zetsumie to be angry with him! Not when they were getting on so well!
00[01:59] <@Matthew> Raene shook his head and tsked. "Naughty little thing." He sighed softly as he carried Haruko in to his own room. Raene's room had no decorations it seemed plain and empty. He set teh boy down on the bed. "Eat your snack and go to sleep little one."
[02:02] <@Haruko> Haruko frowned at that, and wanted to argue back, but stopped in the hopes that behaving would keep Raene on his side. He looked around at the bare walls, and sat down, bringing the fruit to his lips. It was juicy enough that when he bit into it, a bit trickled down, and he had to wipe it away. Swallowing, he asked, "... Here?"
00[02:19] <@Matthew> "Are you tiered?" Raene asked softly as he removed his over coat and set it aside.
[02:21] <@Haruko> Haruko shook his head, and took another bite from his snack, followed by another, and another. It was more delicious and sweet than he thought it would be. <3
00[02:21] <@Matthew> "Then I'll just have to tucker you out then don't I?" Raene asked.
[02:22] <@Haruko> Haruko shrunk down a bit at that question, and looked understandably ill at ease. "I don't like the way that sounds..." He was all but finished with the fruit, only the core remaining in his hands.
00[02:23] <@Matthew> "Well your suggesting you should be tiered to sleep. Correct?"
[02:24] <@Haruko> "... I will be eventually..." He answered back, not wanting to commit to whatever Raene was suggesting, since it seemed terribly ominous. u.u;
00[02:25] <@Matthew> . "Oh yess I'm sure... " Raene purrred softly as he set his hand on Haruko's head and pet the boy as if he were a kitten showing his affections trhough teh gentle touches and caresses.
[02:29] <@Haruko> Haruko's defenses fell a bit, as he relaxed into Raene's touch. Perhaps he was too on edge. The man had only ever been kind to him, after all. And he didn't even tell Zetsumie he was out and about... "I'll be quiet, and I won't get in the way..." He assured the elder, as he deposited the core of his plum into a nearby bin, assumedly for daily trash. "Quiet as a mouse on a snowy day." That
[02:29] <@Haruko> meant they especially didn't want to be thrown outside. D:
03[07:34] * Matthew is now known as PS

00[22:45] PS is a registered nick
00[22:45] PS on #VandeviereOOC #Vandeviere @#Penthouse @#Erehwonooc @#Erehwon ~#dorkz @#At_Night @#animeotk
00[22:45] PS using irc2.animeai.com AnimeAi IRC
00[22:45] PS has been idle 2hrs 13mins 12secs, signed on Tue Oct 15 23:34:24
00[22:45] PS End of /WHOIS list.
-
03[22:52] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night
00[22:52] <@PS> <@Matthew> . "Oh yess I'm sure... " Raene purrred softly as he set his hand on Haruko's head and pet the boy as if he were a kitten showing his affections trhough teh gentle touches and caresses.
00[22:52] <@PS> <@Haruko> Haruko's defenses fell a bit, as he relaxed into Raene's touch. Perhaps he was too on edge. The man had only ever been kind to him, after all. And he didn't even tell Zetsumie he was out and about... "I'll be quiet, and I won't get in the way..." He assured the elder, as he deposited the core of his plum into a nearby bin, assumedly for daily trash. "Quiet as a mouse on a snowy day." That
00[22:52] <@PS> <@Haruko> meant they especially didn't want to be thrown outside. D:
03[22:52] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
00[22:55] <@PS> "Haruko were you told that it was bed time yet?" Raene asked softly as he continued the leisurely petting. Haruko may not have been pay very close attention but Raene already had the perfect set up to trap the boy with in his own words.
[22:58] <@Haruko> "Zetsumie said it was time to sleep..." He admitted, and began to rub the bottoms of his feet together, as he sat, warming them up, after they'd been padding across the chilled ground outside. "But I wasn't tired yet. It's like telling me to eat when I'm full." Haruko added, with just a slight pout in his tone.
00[22:59] <@PS> "So you knew you shouldn't have been out of your bed?" Rane asked softly and he glidded his hand through a larger amount of that red hair pushing it back. "Didn't you?"
[23:04] <@Haruko> "... I didn't think it would be all that big a deal." Haruko replied, looking away, as Raene's fingers slid through his long, silken locks. A little shiver traveled down his spine at the feeling. "I didn't go far, after all. I was..." He began, paused, and started again, sounding a bit more indignant on his second try. "I was allowed to go farther than that on my own when I was six years
[23:04] <@Haruko> old, I think I can be as trusted as a child, who can't even tie their own robe!"
00[23:11] <@PS> Raene's other hand slipped in to his robe for a momment before coming back out. That hand slipped in to Haruko's hair on the other side and pushed it back. Raene starte dto cobe his fingers through Haruko's hair and pulle dit back in to a pony tail and tied it. "Yes child; however you were told it was bed time... and you deliberately went wandering around with out telling any one. You endangered yourself and you deliberately broke your curfew." Rane stated rather calmly as he pat Haruko on the head.
[23:16] <@Haruko> Haruko sat still as his hair was pulled up and off his shoulders and back, torn between behaving, as he was, and pulling away from the man lecturing him, and making a fuss. Obviously, his sense and self-preservation won out, but there was always a temptation... "It's not as if I left bed to go and make trouble." He frowned, shoulders coming up a bit at that pat on his head.
00[23:24] <@PS> "None teh less little one you decided the rules weren't important and you disobeyed them." Rane saidtaking a seta next to Haruko on the bed causing the bed to sink down a little more.
[23:27] <@Haruko> Haruko turned away a bit more, and began again, his tone becoming more snappish with each response. Perhaps he was more tired than he had thought. "I simply thought I wouldn't be treated like a common criminal for taking a walk. But clearly, I was wrong. If it so pleases you, I'd like to get back to bed, and stop being so very abominable." He said, rising up out of his seat.
00[23:29] <@PS> Raene grabbed teh back of Haruko's Obi and tugged him back
00[23:31] <@PS> "Oh no little oen we aren't finished talking about this. The rules are in place for a reason. They are to keep you safe... would your like to have one of these through your body?" Raene asked picking up an arrow from his night stands where he had a quiver laying out. H eheld the item up for Haruko to take.
[23:36] <@Haruko> Haruko let out a little teensy yelp as he was pulled off balance, falling to sit right back in his seat. He didn't look particularly pleased about the prolonged stay either. "...No." He admitted, a bit more softly, as he took hold of the thin rod, touching it's point ever so carefully and gently with his fingertip. It was sharp... if he pushed down with any strength at all, it might have
[23:36] <@Haruko> pierced his skin.
00[23:40] <@PS> "Well then little one I do belive you need a lesson and a reminder of why you need to obey the rules set in place for your safety... " Raene explained softly. "We don't want you egtting yourself hurt sweetling." Raene purred as he scooped Haruko up and laid him across his lap gently. He plucked up anouther arrow and tapped the up turned bottom with the shaft.
[23:45] <@Haruko> Haruko sighed, assuming that he might be confined to his room for some time, or not allowed to go with Masao in the morning, his posture slumping a bit as the thought crossed his mind. But as he was lain over Raene's lap, he gained a sudden clarity on the subject, and pushed himself up a bit onto his elbows. "Really, I've heard you! we don't need this type of lesson!" >///<" he all but
[23:45] <@Haruko> squeaked, as he tried to squirm back into a sitting position.
Session Time: Thu Oct 17 00:00:00 2013
00[00:01] <@PS> "Apprently we do because I see a little Haruko trying to weasle his way out of his just desserts." Raene said and lightly broght the arrow shaft down. It was snapped so it brought with it a sharp stinging pain. Nothing too horrible but it certainly did sting.
[00:07] <@Haruko> Haruko gasped as the arrow's shaft met his silk-covered backside, and curled up his bare toes at the feeling, tensing up all over. He hissed in a breath at the sting, and fought to keep from arguing back, and making a worse case for his 'weasling', forcling his feet to stay down and out of the way. "I'll go to bed, honestly!" he attempted, hoping Raene only wanted him to obey. ><;
00[00:10] <@PS> "I'd very much like it if you could behave yourself and do as you are told." Raene tapped him a few more times and brought the arrow shaft down with three more flicks. "Exspecially when youe saftey is involved." he scolded lightly
[00:15] <@Haruko> "I will. I'm a very good listener, really. I just didn't think-" He stopped in his tracks, as the arrow flicked downward again, a wince at the first, a barely audible noise for the second, and a fully fledge yelp for the third. That time, self control be damned, he put his hand back, palm up, protecting his backside, as he rubbed it gently with the wrong side. His voice was slightly unsteady,
[00:15] <@Haruko> as he pleaded his case "Please, I'm sorry!"
00[00:22] <@PS> Raene tsked and simply moved to take up Haruko's hand. The little wrist was pinned to Haruko's lower back. Raene ran the back end with the feather against Haruko's inner thight as he pushe dup the black silken robe allowing the tip to graze Haruko's curveature of his cheeks. "I understand that you are sorry little one and in the morning you'll be teh one appologising to Zetsumie." Raene offered softly and flicked the arrow shaft on the bare skin letting the light wood bite in to the soft malible flesh leaving be hind two soft pink raisted lines in it' swake. Raene returned the arrow to the quiver and brought his cold palm down on the warm backside letting skin meet skin makking a much louder sound iwth in the silent night.
[00:34] <@Haruko> Haruko felt his stomach full of fluttering butterflies as that feather tickled his inner thighs, which he quickly, and modestly brought together, another small shiver traveling up his spine. Tugging gently, and testingly on his wrist, he let out an unhappy, short whine as the cool night air hit his warm, tingling skin. "I'll apologize now if you let me up!" He tried, once again. When the
[00:34] <@Haruko> arrow's shaft hit his bare skin, the boy let out a throaty little squeal, his feet making a little fluttery kicking motion, out of sheer instinctive reaction. But as the arrow was put away, he pulled in an unsteady breath, shutting his eyes tightly, pushing back the wetness that had gathered, but not escaped, and silently congratulated himself in making it through the punishment without making
[00:34] <@Haruko> too much a fool of himself. u///u ... that was when Raene's hand fell, making him gasp harshly from the stinging impact of it, and the sudden sound, startling him!
00[00:41] <@PS> Raene continued to bring down swift swats as eh peppered Haruko's rear giving the cold boy a nice warming up. He was paying very close attention to the sounds Haruko was making. "To appologise now would simply be uncalled for... we needn't wake your Master up to tell him taht you've been a naughty boy Haruko my dear." Raene explained pausing to let that sting to settle in. Raene patted the warm globes and gave a mild rub before he started again this time speaking while he let the swats fall evenlt. "After your punishmeant I'll put you to bed in my own bed little one." he promised. "And in teh morning we'll talk to your sensei together." He starte dto speed up alittle as his aim shifted downwards.
[00:52] <@Haruko> Haruko tried not to let the building sting and warmth affect him, keeping his mouth shut tightly, the only sounds escaping from his throat for a short time. But soon enough, his hips were twisting to avoid the swats. His face was feeling just as warm, as the reality of the situation sank in, Raene, a man who was not his master, punishing him, and taking him along in the morning, to confess...
[00:52] <@Haruko> As they paused, he used his free hand to wipe at the tears he was taking so much effort to hide in sound. But, soon enough, he couldn't hold back his reaction, as his inward breaths started to catch in his chest, and his outward breaths had a sobbing edge to them. Every reaction, and swat seemed so very loud in the silence, as if the whole world were listening. he just couldn't bring himself
[00:52] <@Haruko> to make a big fuss.
00[00:59] <@PS> Raene seemingly paused fozen still for a momment. He patted Haruko's bottom and tugged down the back of his silk robe. He picke dup the otehr Arrow and put it back in it's quiver before pulling aruko up to sit in his lap. He patted his shoulders and back and pet teh top of the boy's head witha cooing sound. He used his thumb to very carefully clear away any tears. "There thre now It's all over... " Raene purred softly as he pulled Haruko's head in to his chest as he caressed and pet the smaller. "I know you're much better than this and I know you won't make such poor disicions again sweet-ling." Raene coaxed gently. "You'll remember now won't you? That when it's time for you to sleep that you should stay in you bed." Raene lead before standing up with Haruko. He pulled back the covers and gently Laid Haruko down on his belly andcoved him up tucking him in nice and cozy.
[01:09] <@Haruko> Haruko winced as he sat, though again, he didn't make much noise at all. Immediately, his hands went right to his face, as he hurridly wiped away any wetness that lingered there, in the guise of sweeping his bangs to one side. However, as a fresh pair of droplets came all the same, he coudln't help but accept Raene's affectionate gesture of clearing them away, and curled into his embrace,
[01:09] <@Haruko> his breaths coming more slowly and calmly in that position. Nodding, he toyed with the end of his robe, eyes locked on his hands there, not quite ready to look at Raene yet, with red-rimmed eyes, and a flushed cheeks. If only the boy had put two and two together, he'd have known that none of that mattered... Snuggling into his pillow, Haruko nuzzled his cheek against the soft fabric, and shut
[01:09] <@Haruko> his eyes, as a show of just how willing he was to go back to sleep.
00[01:11] <@PS> Raene pet Haruko's head and leaned down placinga very soft kiss to the boy's fore head. "Goodnight Little Haruko-Kun." Rane purred softly.
[01:14] <@Haruko> A brightly pink blush lit up Haruko's cheeks at that kiss, though he still kept his eyes shut tightly. His mouth, however, said a rather sweetly contrite sounding, "Goodnight.... See you in the morning."
02[08:23] * @Haruko ([email protected]) Quit (Quit: )

Session Start: Fri Oct 18 23:07:20 2013
Session Ident: #At_Night
03[23:07] * Now talking in #At_Night
03[23:45] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night
Session Time: Sat Oct 19 00:00:00 2013
03[00:49] * Ps sets mode: +o Haruko
00[00:49] <@Ps> [01:09] <@Haruko> Haruko winced as he sat, though again, he didn't make much noise at all. Immediately, his hands went right to his face, as he hurridly wiped away any wetness that lingered there, in the guise of sweeping his bangs to one side. However, as a fresh pair of droplets came all the same, he coudln't help but accept Raene's affectionate gesture of clearing them away, and curled into his embrace,
00[00:49] <@Ps> [01:09] <@Haruko> his breaths coming more slowly and calmly in that position. Nodding, he toyed with the end of his robe, eyes locked on his hands there, not quite ready to look at Raene yet, with red-rimmed eyes, and a flushed cheeks. If only the boy had put two and two together, he'd have known that none of that mattered... Snuggling into his pillow, Haruko nuzzled his cheek against the soft fabric, and shut
00[00:49] <@Ps> [01:09] <@Haruko> his eyes, as a show of just how willing he was to go back to sleep.
00[00:49] <@Ps> [01:11] <@PS> Raene pet Haruko's head and leaned down placinga very soft kiss to the boy's fore head. "Goodnight Little Haruko-Kun." Rane purred softly.
00[00:49] <@Ps> [01:14] <@Haruko> A brightly pink blush lit up Haruko's cheeks at that kiss, though he still kept his eyes shut tightly. His mouth, however, said a rather sweetly contrite sounding, "Goodnight.... See you in the morning."
00[00:52] <@Ps> The next morning Raene gently pet Haruko's head before pulling the blankets back. "Haruko dear. It's time to get up... come, come let's get you up and out of bed before your Master rises." Raene called in a sweet melodic tone. He gently coaxed and prodded the boy here and there. In truth it was the crack of dawn but the poor boy was going to have to get up none the less. It wouldn't be too much longer till Zetsumie arose to find no Haruko in sight.
[00:57] <@Haruko> At first, Haruko fussed gently, putting his arms up over his eyes at the light that shone into them, once the blanket was pulled off. Though as he heard Raene's voice, he pulled them away, eyes fluttering open excitedly. "oh..." He sleepily sat up, rubbing his eyes with the heels of his hands, before putting them up in the air, stretching and giving a wide yawn. With a little frown, haruko
[00:57] <@Haruko> looked down at the bed, drawing a little circle in the top of the cloth with his fingertip. "... I don't suppose I could just slip into his bed, and pretend all this never happened... right?" He couldn't help but attempt just once.
00[01:02] <@Ps> "Nope come on little one let's go see Zetsumie now." Raene said as he folded the blanket he jsut pulled from Haruko.
[01:09] <@Haruko> Haruko looked as if he were going to meet with his executioner, instead of his master, as he climbed out of bed, and took down his hair, shaking it out and toying with it anxiously, standing near the door, but not walking out just yet. "It wouldn't hurt to keep just one secret..."
00[01:13] <@Ps> "Secerets build dis trust, dis trust builds dishonesty, dishonesty breaks trust, Broken trust leads to broken relationships, Broken relation ships leads to good bye. You don't want to say good bye now do you Haruko?" Raene asked as he picked up his ushual cane and steppe din to his shoes.
[01:17] <@Haruko> Haruko's shoulder's slumped, and he looked defeated for a moment, as he shook his head. "No... Not at all. I suppose it's the only way. But I still don't like it a bit." His voice shrank the longer he spoke, and disappeared almost completely, as he stepped out the door. "I hope he didn't worry..."
00[01:22] <@Ps> Rane sighed softly. "Bet you don't like being spanked as a naughty child either... so next time you'll keep your cute little butt in bed wont you?" Raene asked as he gestured for Haruko to follow along.
[01:25] <@Haruko> Haruko blushed predictably, and fired a little pout Raene's way, "Next time I'll know I'm meant to. So of course I will." He replied, just a tad hautily, as he followed along behind the blind man.
00[01:35] <@Ps> "Shall we have anouther little reminder of what happened?" Raene asked in his sickeningly sweet tone of voice. Oh yes Haruko wasn't going to be getting away with any sass!
[01:39] <@Haruko> The little redhead's hands shot backward as he squeaked out in protest, entirely by reflex. "No!" though he quickly altered his tone to one more composed. "... No thank you. It's very clear in my memory still." He still felt those lines a bit as he sat, and he wasn't pleased about it at all.
00[01:41] <@Ps> "Come along then and stop your pouting." Raene held out his hand to Haruko. "I'm sure you'd much rather get this over with and get on with your day. I had heard Zetsumie was planning on letting you go out with Masao today wasn't he?" He asked.
[01:45] <@Haruko> "I'm coming." He replied, reaching out and setting his hand in Raene's larger palm. ".... He had been... I'm not sure if he'll let me go after this." He sounded sullen, but not in an agressive way. "I had been on perfect behavior, almost." deep down, a little part of him wanted the man to feel a little guilty, for making him tell Zetsumie, but even he didn't recognise it yet.
00[01:46] <@Ps> "Well consider this a great and rare learning exsperiance for you." Raene said softly. He lea dteh boy along untill they reached Zetsumie's room and he reached up and knocked on the door.
[01:48] <@Haruko> As that knock rang out, Haruko had an odd impulse to run away. To go and hide somewhere, until Zetsumie forgot about everything. But of course, his common sense told him that it would only make matters worse, of course.
00[01:57] <@Ps> Almost a sif sencing the lad's distress Raene set a comforting hand uppon the boy's shoulder. after sevral long momments Zetsumie slid the door open and leaned up against the wooden frame looking down at Haruko witha rather confused look gracing his features. "Haruko here has something to tell you." Raene started gently petting the boy's head showing mild affection.
[02:04] <@Haruko> Haruko took in a deep breath and let it go as they waited, comforted by the gesture a bit. But as the door slid open, and Zetsumie peered down at him, he only slid closer to Raene. When the man had finished speaking, and all attention was focused on him, they'd find he had slid about halfway behind Raene's body, making it a bit harder to pet him. And though his mouth opened up, none of the
[02:04] <@Haruko> words seemed to come out, stuck hard in his throat.
00[02:10] <@Ps> Raene pried Haruko off and pushed himsofrward infront of Zetsumie once more. "Go on... he's waiting..." Raene insisted.
[02:20] <@Haruko> Haruko looked up at Zetsumie, with his lower lip in a vice-like grip between his teeth, mustering up the courage to say what he was supposed to. when he opened up his mouth to speak, it was shiney and darker red. "I... Couldn't sleep last night." he began, looking down at his fingers, anxiously tightening the knot in his sash, and adjusting it. "So I woke up, and I went out for a walk... I-It
[02:20] <@Haruko> wasn't that I intended to-to cause trouble, only that I didn't want to ... bother you... tossing and turning..." Again, his voice slipped in volume as he went on. "I didn't realize it wasn't allowed, so I... I did it. Raene brought me inside, and kept me from getting hurt." The boy looked contrite indeed, assuming Zetsumie would be aggrivated with him.
00[02:37] <@Ps> "I see..." Zetsumie said softly training off as he looked down on the boy as if pontificating what to do. He sigehd shaking his head and pat Raene on teh shoulder. "Well I appreciate you taking care of him." Rane smiled and said it was no problem at all aside from teh sass. Zetsumie scooped Haruko up and set teh boy over teh top of his shoudler and bit Raene a fairwell before carrying the boy in to their room and shutting the door He set Haruko down on the bed and placed his hands on his hips looking down at teh brat.
[02:49] <@Haruko> Haruko winced as mention of his sass came to light, wishing he could simply melt into the floorboards, and avoid the topic altogether. But, as Zetsumie scooped him up, and his world spun, he clutched onto the back of his master's robe, and felt the urge to huff indignantly. Though, his sense of self-preservation kept him from doing it. And, as he was set down on the bed, Haru looked far up
[02:49] <@Haruko> at Zetsumie, who seemed positively monsterously tall from that position. "I didn't mean..." He began, trying to explain himself before Zetsumie could pass judgement. "I've never had a rule like that..." Haruko, squeaky voiced and tense, was feeling quite overwhelmed with the morning's events, and pushed himself further back onto the bed. He felt the soft pillow touch his fingertips, and in
[02:49] <@Haruko> a moment of sheer impulse, pulled the plush item right over him, and hugged it to his chest, burrying his face into it, and blocking out Zetsumie's stare. "I thought it was alright... I only wanted you to keep from bothering you, and everything's a mess, and you aren't going to let me go with Masao..."
00[02:58] <@Ps> "get dressed." Zetsumie stated simply as he moved to fetch Haruko some work clotehs as what would be come per ushual. It seemed as if Zetsumie would save his judgemeant for anouther time. "
00[02:58] <@Ps> You don't wnat to keep Masao waiting now do you?"
[03:01] <@Haruko> Haruko froze a moment, before sitting up straight, and looking to Zetsumie in disbelief. He... wasn't angry? He wasn't going to be stuck inside, and given mounds of chores, and lectured? "N...No, I don't..." The redhead seemed just slightly dazed, as he held his hands out for those clothes. He wanted to ask why he was still allowed to go, but of course who would poke a tiger who's showed you
[03:01] <@Haruko> mercy?
00[03:28] <@Ps> "Go get washed up then... Come back hear and I'll have your bag packed for the day. . . Run along now." Zetsumie almost snapped as he pointed to teh door.
[03:33] <@Haruko> Taking the work clothes, Haruko nodded and dashed out the door before Zetsumie could change his mind. His bare feet padded along the ground as he made his way to the bath house, and he peeked in, with just a bit of apprehension, hoping it wasn't too crowded. Either way, he stepped inside, and began preparations.
00[03:36] <@Ps> It seemed that not every one was up just yet an dthussly Itw as rather deserted. Zetsumie went ahead and started to make preperations for the boy's trip. After He got together what was needed he went to fetch Kuro and tack the large beast up.
[03:44] <@Haruko> Haruko sighed with relief as he shed his robe and climbed into a large steaming tub, sinking into the water, and letting it wash away his cares. He only dawdled a few minutes, however, to keep from falling asleep then and there. After cleaning his skin to a glistening, pale, and clear canvas, he washed his long locks twice, filling the water around him with bubbles, as he sank below the water,
[03:44] <@Haruko> rinsing them clean.

07[01:33] <Haruko> [23:58] <@Ps> "get dressed." Zetsumie stated simply as he moved to fetch Haruko some work clotehs as what would be come per ushual. It seemed as if Zetsumie would save his judgemeant for anouther time. "
07[01:33] <Haruko> [23:58] <@Ps> You don't wnat to keep Masao waiting now do you?"
[01:33] <Haruko> Session Time: Sat Oct 19 00:00:00 2013
[01:33] <Haruko> [00:01] <@Haruko> Haruko froze a moment, before sitting up straight, and looking to Zetsumie in disbelief. He... wasn't angry? He wasn't going to be stuck inside, and given mounds of chores, and lectured? "N...No, I don't..." The redhead seemed just slightly dazed, as he held his hands out for those clothes. He wanted to ask why he was still allowed to go, but of course who would poke a tiger
[01:33] <Haruko> who's showed you mercy?
07[01:33] <Haruko> [00:29] <@Ps> "Go get washed up then... Come back hear and I'll have your bag packed for the day. . . Run along now." Zetsumie almost snapped as he pointed to teh door.
[01:33] <Haruko> [00:33] <@Haruko> Taking the work clothes, Haruko nodded and dashed out the door before Zetsumie could change his mind. His bare feet padded along the ground as he made his way to the bath house, and he peeked in, with just a bit of apprehension, hoping it wasn't too crowded. Either way, he stepped inside, and began preparations.
07[01:33] <Haruko> [00:36] <@Ps> It seemed that not every one was up just yet an dthussly Itw as rather deserted. Zetsumie went ahead and started to make preperations for the boy's trip. After He got together what was needed he went to fetch Kuro and tack the large beast up.
[01:33] <Haruko> [00:44] <@Haruko> Haruko sighed with relief as he shed his robe and climbed into a large steaming tub, sinking into the water, and letting it wash away his cares. He only dawdled a few minutes, however, to keep from falling asleep then and there. After cleaning his skin to a glistening, pale, and clear canvas, he washed his long locks twice, filling the water around him with bubbles, as he
[01:33] <Haruko> sank below the water, rinsing them clean.
00[01:58] <@PS> Zetsumie finished tacking the large beast up and set him out front on one of the guide poles. After that Zetsumie went to pack away a few things for Haruko. Considering the youth was still very new it was shocking that Zetsumie would be letting the child off so soon. However Masao was going with Haruko and that only went to show just how much Zetsumie trusted the elder of the two children. Though it certainly was odd that was letting the brat go considering how poorly he behaved last night. A few Onigiri balls were packed in nicely along with a few hard boiled eggs. Everything was wrapped tight in a dark blue cloth and set in a neat little wooden box. He went to his room and went rifling through where he kept his own specialties and looked through a small bag where eh kept some currency. He pulled out a ryō and looked it over. It was an oblong shaped golden piece. (roughly worth these days about $150 US dollars.) He picked out 5 shu ( 16 shu = 1 Ryo) Zetsumie set them down in a new smaller pouch. The small pouch was a dark blue made of thick velvet fabric. He returned his items to where they belonged and set the small pouch next to the wooden box. He fetched some wooden sandals from his closet they were small much too small for his feet. They looked a bit warn but they were well taken care of . Zetsumie knew he'd be needing shoes for town.
03[01:59] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
[02:11] <@Haruko> Haruko strolled out of the bath house with a pair of damp feet, leaving dainty little footprints behind as he returned to their shared bedroom. Though they had dried enough by then not to leave marks. His fiery hair was wet and flowing freely down his back, lightly tousled from drying it as best he could, but the boy looked clean, refreshed, and much more carefree than he had upon entering
[02:11] <@Haruko> that morning. Baths were something he greatly enjoyed, and there was a little spring in his step because of it. Haruko sat down on the edge of their bed, and combed his fingers through those locks, until his eyes settled on a comb, which he picked up and began running through his tangles, wincing as he tugged them loose. o _ <
00[02:14] <@PS> Zetsumie set the shoes infront of the boy before grabbing his wrist and taking teh comb from his hand. "Has no one taught you how to comb your hair?" Zetsumie took a seatand started to comb the boy's hair starting at the very tips and workinghis way up. He used one hand to hold the mess of red near the base of Haruko's head as he worked.
[02:18] <@Haruko> "Of course they have... it wouldn't ever look clean if they didn't..." Haruko replied, a faint tinge of blush on his cheeks. Though as Zetsumie began, he quickly learned what he meant. "Well It wasn't always so hard... when I was younger, it was shorter." He settled his fingertips around the middle of his chest, to show how long it had been. "And my brother's is barely long at all." his
[02:18] <@Haruko> fingers traveled to the tops of his shoulders that time. "Of course he wouldn't know it..." All the same, he made sure to be still and patient. a little part of him remembered his mother doing something similar when he was quite small.

[Passionate Shadow]

00[02:22] <@PS> Once Zetsumie came up to the top he released his hair and combed carefully around his ears. He combed it back neatly and parted it braiding Haruko's hair neatly but refraining from doing so tighly like his own fish tail braid. This one was much simpler and helpped pull the long mess of hair away from his face. "Now then little one."Zetsumie said as he set teh comb aside and stood. He fetched The box and the pouch. " These are for you." Zetsumie explained gently. "You go on a head- Masao is probobly already waiting for you."
[02:33] <@Haruko> Haruko fluttered his eyes shut at the feeling of Zetsumie's fingers manipulating his hair, and pleating it into neat little rows. They felt marvelously soft and tingly. He looked down at the little pouch and box in his hands and nodded, repeating what he'd been told to get. "For clothes..." In the past it had been a habit, since the day he'd taken his tiny family's food money for that week
[02:33] <@Haruko> and been seduced into purchasing a particularly pretty looking toy ocarina instead. Big brother had not been pleased. u.u "Thank you." he smiled, pushing that memory away. "I'll be on best behavior." He promised, and meant it, as he walked out the door. "Goodbye!" and hurried off to meet Masao.


00[02:56] <@PS> Masao was out by Kuro feeding the large animal a few carrots. He smiled seeing the other and waved . Masao then mounted and offered his hand to Haruko. "Good morning Little Haruko- did you sleep well??" He asked softly. Masao narrowed pink eyes on him and furrowed his brow. "What do you have there?" Masao asked softly having noticed the pouch and box.
[03:08] <@Haruko> Haruko waved right back, picking up his pace as he spotted Masao, and trotting right upto his side. "... I slept as well as could be expected." He answered, in as carefree a tone as he could manage. It wasn't exactly lying of course. Simply omitting a bit of the story. ^^; "Oh!" He looked down at his hands. He jingled the little pouch, "Money, and..." took the lid off of the box, and didn't
[03:08] <@Haruko> need to take away the cloth. "Breakfast." ^^
[03:09] <@Haruko> *He could smell it before he needed to see it.


00[03:19] <@PS> "Those are some nice shoes you got there... Did Zetsumie give them to you?" Masao asked softly. "I had to earn my first set.' Masao offered before helping the smaller on up to sit behind him. He then started them off towards the front gate where the two watch guards happily let the two of them out and in to the beginnings of the stone labyrinth. Masao seemed to know the way well enough. " How much did Zetsumie Sensei give you Haruko?" Masao asked softly curious as to just what Haruko had gotten. He was expecting to hear something like 70 mon(4000= 1 Ryo) or per haps a shu or a few more if Zetsumie was feeling rather generous. Masao was given some form of money as well to do the errands requested of him.
[03:31] <@Haruko> "oh. Yes, he did. I... didnt' know we were meant to earn them." He looked down at his own feet a moment as he climbed up onto the back of the large animal, and settled himself in, hanging on lightly around Masao's waist. Haruko's eyes were wide and darting here and there as they passed the gates, "I'm not sure, I haven't looked yet." Haru confessed. He'd been more excited about being allowed
[03:31] <@Haruko> a trip so soon, and by himself, no less. As he pulled open the little pouch and gazed inside, his eyes all but bugged out of his head. " I think there was a mistake!" He winced, pulling on he back of Masao's shirt a bit. "He must have given me the wrong pouch, and taken mine instead. We should go back."


00[03:33] <@PS> Masao paused. and turned back. "why what's wrong?" He asked gently. "What happened?" Masao turned best he could to try and find out what was troubling Haruko.
[03:35] <@Haruko> "There's... so much, I've never even seen this much money!" Haruko squeaked, eyes still locked at the shining coins within that blue velvet. "I don't think even an emperor needs this much for a set of clothes!"


00[03:37] <@PS> Masao blinked. ". . . That's the right bag." he offered softly recognizing the pouch. He laugehd. "How much is in tehre?" He asked softly. " I think you better keep it close and safe then if it's really a lot. " Masao offered softly.
[03:41] <@Haruko> "but it can't be! I'd never trust me with this kind of money!" He clutched the little pouch to his chest, shaking his head. Honestly, he was certain the little house he'd lived in before coming to the village wasn't worth as much... "One ryo and five shu..." As Haruko contemplated why Zetsumie would ever hand him such an allowance, a traitorous little voice in his head whispered to him that
[03:41] <@Haruko> that was enough to leave if he wanted to. To go back to his home, if he really desired it...


00[03:44] <@PS> Masao whistled. "My that is a lot. "... You best keep that safe and not let any oen see it." Masao said gently. He staretd teh horse along aswel. "But Isupposse we are to bring him nack the rest. Zetsumie gave me a nice list of things we are to get for you." He explained. "You'll bee gtting shoes of you're own..." Masao said taking the list from his gi top. "Kyosuke Was teh one who ultimatelyd ecided to sier me....


00[03:45] <@PS> Zetsumie Found me lying face down in the sand late one night. He Brought me home with him and helped revive me... Zetsumie may seemr eally mean and all but he's ratehr kind underneath that grough exterior." Masao Nodded.
[03:50] <@Haruko> Haruko nodded. That was good advice. It would be terrible if someone stole it. "Of course." He replied, fully expecting to give Zetsumie the remainder. "Hm? Are these shoes no good?" He asked, wiggling his toes inside them. That was just before his features fell a bit sad, and sympathetic "I know he is. He's been very kind to me, and I admit, I do get scared of him sometimes. But aside from
[03:50] <@Haruko> how mean he seems, he's never once given me a reason to really fear him." Haru paused a moment, before asking the question, not sure if he really should. It seemed personal. "...What were you doing there? In the sand, I mean..."


00[03:55] <@PS> Masao turned to glance down at the shoes Haruko was wearing. "Nothing is wrong with them... those do look like Zetsumie's shoes though. From when he was younger..." Masao trailed gently looking them over as if recognizing them. "Hmm? Why?" Masao repeated as they strode through stone passage ways. soon they came out to the edge of a forest and he started along a slightly beaten path. "Well I was ship wrecked. I was traveling with my Mother over seas and we ran in to a terrible storm. I don't quiet remember much of my time in the ocean... But sooner or later the sea spit me out upon this very shore." He said was the eased out of the forest and on to a sandy beach. "I was still very young then. " He added in as if reminiscing.
[03:59] <@Haruko> Again, Haruko felt as if he were overstepping a line, though he hadn't done anything personally. He wasn't going through things the way others were meant to, it seemed... And quite suddenly, he felt as if he should step more lightly in those shoes. "Oh..." the redhead listened quietly, wondering if it was as unsettling for Masao at first, as it was for him, to be suddenly accepted into a
[03:59] <@Haruko> strange place, with strange customs. But he couldn't help but let out a little laugh. "... You're still young, Masao. You sound like an old man when you say that." ^^


00[04:14] <@PS> Masao chuckled softly. "Well... I kind of feel like that with the things I've been through." he offered. "Every teacher has a different approach I suppose. different methods, and such... Kyosuke-sama is very strict with me." Masao offered gently. "But he means well. He just doesn't tolerate childishness." Masao tried to explain. "So... Where exactly did you come from?" Masao asked curious as to where Harukow as pick up from. Perhaps he was stolen or a foundling, perhaps a spoil of war or even bought from a slavers market.
[04:26] <@Haruko> "I don't feel like childishness is so bad... I mean, if it doesn't mean bad things on top of it, like being selfish, or rude..." Haruko mused. "But acting like a kid isn't so bad by itself." With a little sigh, he shrugged, feeling oddly open with Masao, when he wasn't normally. "I'm from a place very, very far from here... So far I wouldn't know how to get back on my own. And one day, some
[04:26] <@Haruko> terrible people took me from my home. They weren't very kind to me..." He trailed a moment, trying to push away any memories of that time, "But before too long, Zetsumie bought me and took me back with him, and here we are now."


00[04:30] <@PS> "Ah... It's fortunate for you taht Zetsumie saw you then." Masao offered softly. "You said you had a brother right? What's his name?" Masao asked softly as he streched a little.
[04:43] <@Haruko> "It's true... I honestly was scared at first, that I'd never get away. Then that I'd gotten away to a fate that was just as bad..." The boy's features were stormy, and he was glad for the way they were seated, that Masao couldn't look back at him well. "Yes. His name is Kichi ...rou. Kichirou." It was odd to call his brother by his full name. He only ever heard it when an adult was speaking
[04:43] <@Haruko> to them.


00[04:45] <@PS> Masao wante dto ask what it was liek to have an elder sibling be decidded against it. "So Haruko what kind of clothing you thinking about getting?" Masao asked. " If you're hungery now would be a good time to start on breakfast if you;d like. I can even stop if you wanna sit still and watch the tide for a little bit." Masao offered.
[04:49] <@Haruko> Haruko was glad to change the subject. Kichi wasn't what he wanted to focus on. It always made him a little melancholy. "I'm not sure... I suppose something comfortable, and not too flashy." He looked down at his work clothes. "But not too boring and dull either. I don't want to fade into the background." At the suggestion, he nodded. "I'm not used to riding for so long. I wouldn't mind a
[04:49] <@Haruko> break."

Session Start: Tue Nov 05 18:29:33 2013
Session Ident: #At_Night


02[18:29] * Attempting to rejoin channel #At_Night


03[18:29] * Rejoined channel #At_Night


02[18:30] * Matthew ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout)
Session Time: Wed Nov 06 00:00:01 2013


02[18:58] * Disconnected
Session Close: Wed Nov 06 18:58:16 2013

Session Start: Wed Nov 06 18:58:16 2013
Session Ident: #At_Night


02[19:01] * Attempting to rejoin channel #At_Night


03[19:01] * Rejoined channel #At_Night


02[19:05] * Disconnected
Session Close: Wed Nov 06 19:05:25 2013

Session Start: Wed Nov 06 19:05:25 2013
Session Ident: #At_Night


02[19:05] * Attempting to rejoin channel #At_Night


03[19:05] * Rejoined channel #At_Night


02[19:06] * @PS ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout)


03[19:30] * Matthew is now known as PS


03[20:29] * PS is now known as Masao


03[20:29] * Retrieving #At_Night modes...


03[20:31] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[02:56] <@PS> Masao was out by Kuro feeding the large animal a few carrots. He smiled seeing the other and waved . Masao then mounted and offered his hand to Haruko. "Good morning Little Haruko- did you sleep well??" He asked softly. Masao narrowed pink eyes on him and furrowed his brow. "What do you have there?" Masao asked softly having noticed the pouch and box.


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:08] <@Haruko> Haruko waved right back, picking up his pace as he spotted Masao, and trotting right upto his side. "... I slept as well as could be expected." He answered, in as carefree a tone as he could manage. It wasn't exactly lying of course. Simply omitting a bit of the story. ^^; "Oh!" He looked down at his hands. He jingled the little pouch, "Money, and..." took the lid off of the box, and didn't


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:08] <@Haruko> need to take away the cloth. "Breakfast." ^^


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:09] <@Haruko> *He could smell it before he needed to see it.


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[03:19] <@PS> "Those are some nice shoes you got there... Did Zetsumie give them to you?" Masao asked softly. "I had to earn my first set.' Masao offered before helping the smaller on up to sit behind him. He then started them off towards the front gate where the two watch guards happily let the two of them out and in to the beginnings of the stone labyrinth. Masao seemed to know the way well enough. " How much did Zetsumie Sensei give you Haruko?" Masao asked softly curious as to just what Haruko had gotten. He was expecting to hear something like 70 mon(4000= 1 Ryo) or per haps a shu or a few more if Zetsumie was feeling rather generous. Masao was given some form of money as well to do the errands requested of him.


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:31] <@Haruko> "oh. Yes, he did. I... didnt' know we were meant to earn them." He looked down at his own feet a moment as he climbed up onto the back of the large animal, and settled himself in, hanging on lightly around Masao's waist. Haruko's eyes were wide and darting here and there as they passed the gates, "I'm not sure, I haven't looked yet." Haru confessed. He'd been more excited about being allowed


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:31] <@Haruko> a trip so soon, and by himself, no less. As he pulled open the little pouch and gazed inside, his eyes all but bugged out of his head. " I think there was a mistake!" He winced, pulling on he back of Masao's shirt a bit. "He must have given me the wrong pouch, and taken mine instead. We should go back."


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[03:33] <@PS> Masao paused. and turned back. "why what's wrong?" He asked gently. "What happened?" Masao turned best he could to try and find out what was troubling Haruko.


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:35] <@Haruko> "There's... so much, I've never even seen this much money!" Haruko squeaked, eyes still locked at the shining coins within that blue velvet. "I don't think even an emperor needs this much for a set of clothes!"


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[03:37] <@PS> Masao blinked. ". . . That's the right bag." he offered softly recognizing the pouch. He laugehd. "How much is in tehre?" He asked softly. " I think you better keep it close and safe then if it's really a lot. " Masao offered softly.


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:41] <@Haruko> "but it can't be! I'd never trust me with this kind of money!" He clutched the little pouch to his chest, shaking his head. Honestly, he was certain the little house he'd lived in before coming to the village wasn't worth as much... "One ryo and five shu..." As Haruko contemplated why Zetsumie would ever hand him such an allowance, a traitorous little voice in his head whispered to him that


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:41] <@Haruko> that was enough to leave if he wanted to. To go back to his home, if he really desired it...


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[03:44] <@PS> Masao whistled. "My that is a lot. "... You best keep that safe and not let any oen see it." Masao said gently. He staretd teh horse along aswel. "But Isupposse we are to bring him nack the rest. Zetsumie gave me a nice list of things we are to get for you." He explained. "You'll bee gtting shoes of you're own..." Masao said taking the list from his gi top. "Kyosuke Was teh one who ultimatelyd ecided to sier me....


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[03:45] <@PS> Zetsumie Found me lying face down in the sand late one night. He Brought me home with him and helped revive me... Zetsumie may seemr eally mean and all but he's ratehr kind underneath that grough exterior." Masao Nodded.


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:50] <@Haruko> Haruko nodded. That was good advice. It would be terrible if someone stole it. "Of course." He replied, fully expecting to give Zetsumie the remainder. "Hm? Are these shoes no good?" He asked, wiggling his toes inside them. That was just before his features fell a bit sad, and sympathetic "I know he is. He's been very kind to me, and I admit, I do get scared of him sometimes. But aside from


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:50] <@Haruko> how mean he seems, he's never once given me a reason to really fear him." Haru paused a moment, before asking the question, not sure if he really should. It seemed personal. "...What were you doing there? In the sand, I mean..."


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[03:55] <@PS> Masao turned to glance down at the shoes Haruko was wearing. "Nothing is wrong with them... those do look like Zetsumie's shoes though. From when he was younger..." Masao trailed gently looking them over as if recognizing them. "Hmm? Why?" Masao repeated as they strode through stone passage ways. soon they came out to the edge of a forest and he started along a slightly beaten path. "Well I was ship wrecked. I was traveling with my Mother over seas and we ran in to a terrible storm. I don't quiet remember much of my time in the ocean... But sooner or later the sea spit me out upon this very shore." He said was the eased out of the forest and on to a sandy beach. "I was still very young then. " He added in as if reminiscing.


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:59] <@Haruko> Again, Haruko felt as if he were overstepping a line, though he hadn't done anything personally. He wasn't going through things the way others were meant to, it seemed... And quite suddenly, he felt as if he should step more lightly in those shoes. "Oh..." the redhead listened quietly, wondering if it was as unsettling for Masao at first, as it was for him, to be suddenly accepted into a


00[20:31] <Masao> [03:59] <@Haruko> strange place, with strange customs. But he couldn't help but let out a little laugh. "... You're still young, Masao. You sound like an old man when you say that." ^^


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[04:14] <@PS> Masao chuckled softly. "Well... I kind of feel like that with the things I've been through." he offered. "Every teacher has a different approach I suppose. different methods, and such... Kyosuke-sama is very strict with me." Masao offered gently. "But he means well. He just doesn't tolerate childishness." Masao tried to explain. "So... Where exactly did you come from?" Masao asked curious as to where Harukow as pick up from. Perhaps he was stolen or a foundling, perhaps a spoil of war or even bought from a slavers market.


00[20:31] <Masao> [04:26] <@Haruko> "I don't feel like childishness is so bad... I mean, if it doesn't mean bad things on top of it, like being selfish, or rude..." Haruko mused. "But acting like a kid isn't so bad by itself." With a little sigh, he shrugged, feeling oddly open with Masao, when he wasn't normally. "I'm from a place very, very far from here... So far I wouldn't know how to get back on my own. And one day, some


00[20:31] <Masao> [04:26] <@Haruko> terrible people took me from my home. They weren't very kind to me..." He trailed a moment, trying to push away any memories of that time, "But before too long, Zetsumie bought me and took me back with him, and here we are now."


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[04:30] <@PS> "Ah... It's fortunate for you taht Zetsumie saw you then." Masao offered softly. "You said you had a brother right? What's his name?" Masao asked softly as he streched a little.


00[20:31] <Masao> [04:43] <@Haruko> "It's true... I honestly was scared at first, that I'd never get away. Then that I'd gotten away to a fate that was just as bad..." The boy's features were stormy, and he was glad for the way they were seated, that Masao couldn't look back at him well. "Yes. His name is Kichi ...rou. Kichirou." It was odd to call his brother by his full name. He only ever heard it when an adult was speaking


00[20:31] <Masao> [04:43] <@Haruko> to them.


00[20:31] <Masao>

00[04:45] <@PS> Masao wante dto ask what it was liek to have an elder sibling be decidded against it. "So Haruko what kind of clothing you thinking about getting?" Masao asked. " If you're hungery now would be a good time to start on breakfast if you;d like. I can even stop if you wanna sit still and watch the tide for a little bit." Masao offered.


00[20:31] <Masao> [04:49] <@Haruko> Haruko was glad to change the subject. Kichi wasn't what he wanted to focus on. It always made him a little melancholy. "I'm not sure... I suppose something comfortable, and not too flashy." He looked down at his work clothes. "But not too boring and dull either. I don't want to fade into the background." At the suggestion, he nodded. "I'm not used to riding for so long. I wouldn't mind a


00[20:31] <Masao> [04:49] <@Haruko> break."


02[20:31] * Disconnected
Session Close: Wed Nov 06 20:31:41 2013

Session Start: Wed Nov 06 20:31:41 2013
Session Ident: #At_Night


02[20:31] * Attempting to rejoin channel #At_Night


03[20:31] * Rejoined channel #At_Night


00[20:35] <Masao> <Masao> [04:45] <@PS> Masao wante dto ask what it was liek to have an elder sibling be decidded against it. "So Haruko what kind of clothing you thinking about getting?" Masao asked. " If you're hungery now would be a good time to start on breakfast if you;d like. I can even stop if you wanna sit still and watch the tide for a little bit." Masao offered.


00[20:35] <Masao> <Masao> [04:49] <@Haruko> Haruko was glad to change the subject. Kichi wasn't what he wanted to focus on. It always made him a little melancholy. "I'm not sure... I suppose something comfortable, and not too flashy." He looked down at his work clothes. "But not too boring and dull either. I don't want to fade into the background." At the suggestion, he nodded. "I'm not used to riding for so long. I wouldn't mind a


00[20:35] <Masao> <Masao> [04:49] <@Haruko> break."


00[20:48] <Masao> Masao nodded softly and lead Kuro towards a stretch of sand which had large smoothed over boulders sitting there. He Dismounted first and held his hands up towards the smaller to help him down off of the massive beast. "I remember once I had to go a on a trip with some of the older ones... it last a few days. "


03[20:48] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
[20:55] <Haruko> Haruko had no intention of waiting, and hooked one foot on the stirrups, before hopping right down. He stumbled forward a few steps, but was perfectly fine. "Whoops... not used to these things..." He picked up one of his feet and looked at the bottoms of the wooden sandal breifly, before hopping along to those smooth bolders, and taking a seat. He set the box beside him, and slipped the cord
[20:55] <Haruko> of the velvet pouch from around his wrist, to wait beside him, and not get messy with food. "... Want some?" Haru offered, taking up an egg and biting into it hungrily.


00[21:01] <Masao> Masao blinked seeing Haruko hop down so quickly. "Haruko you'll break your ankle like that..." he started before the offer of shared food was brought up. "Sure!" Masao said as he hopped up right along side Haruko. "It looks like Zetsumie-Sensei cooked for you." Masao offered.


07[21:09] <Haruko> "I landed right..." Haruko said in return, mouth full of egg. He swallowed and pushed the box a little closer to Masao, welcoming him to take what he wanted. "Mhm, he's a great cook. I hope that's maybe one of the things he'll teach me." And with that, the rest of the white and yellow orb went into his mouth. NOM.


00[21:10] <Masao> "Dose he feed you often?" Masao asked witha small giggle lacing his words though there was a touch of nervousness to it. Masao didn't wnat to take any of his meal if he wasn't being given enough.


07[21:13] <Haruko> "Mhm. All the time!" Haruko nodded, plucking a rice ball free, and biting into it. It was seasoned well. ^^ For a moment, he thought maybe he was eating too ravenously, and Masao assumed he was starving, so he took smaller bites. "Why wouldn't he?" He hadn't been that naughty, after all.


00[21:17] <Masao> Masao picked up and egg and bit in to it. "Well... Some times our teachers might with hold meals from us be it a punishmenat or for otehr reasons." Masao seeme dto be vague going with ethe part of 'other reasons' in his explination. He plucke dout the yoke and popped it in to his mouth as he over looked the squishy white part.
[21:24] <Haruko> "Like going to bed without supper... That's not so bad." Haruko reasoned, shifting a little in his seat. That hard stone wasn't as forgiving as leather. "I do hate being hungry though..." he added thoughtfully, as he finished his rice ball, and dusted any crumbs off the front of his clothes.



---------- Post added at 12:45 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:45 PM ----------

00[21:35] <Masao> Masao shrugged gently. "Seems more of an annoyance to me... I'm ushually not bothered by being hungery... that feeling fades most of the time. " Masao offered.


07[21:37] <Haruko> "Yeah, but I like feeling full alot better." Haruko replied, holding out the second rice ball to Masao. "... Except when we're riding. ^^; Then it just makes me feel sick."


00[21:41] <Masao> Masao laughed and chomped down teh white bit of egg before taking the offered onigiri. "Thank you Haruko. "Masao said and he idlely took out a folded bit of partchmenat. "Let's see here..."


07[21:53] <Haruko> Haruko settled the cloth inside the box, and set the top back on. "You're welcome." He stood up, and stretched his arms up, coming to Masao's side. "... What's that?" He looked at the sheet of parchment, and began to read over the other boy's shoulder.


00[21:56] <Masao> "It's my errand list... It seems we'll be going in to some very nice places... Masao smiled at Haruko. "I'm sure you know how to behave your self right?"
[22:00] <Haruko> Haruko pouted a bit at that question. "Of course I do." He exclaimed, far too defensively. On the inside he wasn't quite sure. He'd gotten caught up in minor trouble since he'd come. what if people from this place were as strict all over?


00[22:06] <Masao> "Then you should be fine." Masao said folding the papper and putting it away. he hopped up and headde dover to Kuro before lacing his finegrs together maing a boost for Haruko.


07[22:09] <Haruko> Haruko looked at the little boost and back to the saddle, debating whether or not he needed it for all of two seconds, before he stuck his foot in, and hoisted himself up, with Masao's help of course, then scooted back, giving the other boy room to sit.
[22:17] <Haruko> *And holding out his hand to him.


00[22:22] <Masao> Masao took Haruko's hand and teh horn on the saddle and helped himself right up. "Thank you~"


07[22:26] <Haruko> "You're welcome." He said again, putting his hands lightly around Masao's waist and sighing happily. Today would be a good day. ^^ He could feel it.


00[22:28] <Masao> Masao strode over to where they were seated and elaned over picking up teh velvet pouch. He pried off Haruko's right hand and wrapped the. 333333330



00[22:30] <Masao> wrapped teh cords around his wrista nd loope diot securing the item to his wrist. "I thought I said you should keep good care of this." Masao said pulling it taught and perhaps for a momment making it a little uncomfortable on Haruko's wrist. " Youw ouldn'tw ant to loose it now would you?
[22:33] <Haruko> At first, Haruko looked a bit confused. Why were they going back that way? But at the sight of a very familiar looking pouch, he began to blush a nice hot pink, groaning a little at his own forgetfulness. The red head winced for a moment, as the little cord looped too tightly around his slim wrist. "Ah... No, I didn't mean to, I was just distracted... Everybody forgets something, sometime."
[22:33] <Haruko> He reminded his friend, with a distinct sulkiness in his tone.


02[22:43] * Haruko ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout)


03[22:44] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night


00[23:01] <Masao> "This is something you're not allowe dto forget little Haruko-chan." Masaso assured as they continue don their way. " My list had soem bath supplies and asks that I pick up a few odds and ends as well as some fine kimonos that were ordered a while back.


02[23:10] * Haruko ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout)


03[23:21] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night


07[23:22] <Haruko> Haruko sulked all the more at that all too familiar nickname, this time from an unlikely source. '...I know!" he grumbled. "it's not as if I forgot it on purpose." if anyone he'd met wasn't allowed to call him little, it was Masao! >:/ "...Sounds easy enough, I suppose..." haru nodded.


00[23:25] <Masao> Masao laughed softly and shook his head. "It is easy... though considering all that you've been trhough I supposse you may be a little stresse dout and perhaps worried about Zetsumie-Sensei."


07[23:39] <Haruko> "... You could say that..." Haruko frowned a little at that, but relaxed as Masao laughed, not realizing that he was leaning a little more against the other boy, and hanging on just a little tighter. u.u that morning had definitely been worrying. And it turned out to be nothing. Well... nothing yet. Which only made him worry more! ><;


00[23:42] <Masao> "What do you think will happen?" Masao asked softly. Masao hadn't been todl not to talk about this subject with Haruko and thussly he assume Haruko knew all about it.
[23:45] <Haruko> "Hm?" Haruko looked confused at that for a moment, but quickly schooled his features. Had something happened that he should be concerned about? He had been talking about his own problems, but... well, Zetsumie's were far more interesting. "Well I'm not really sure. I haven't been around as long. What do you thnk will happen?" >>; smooth, Haru. Smooth.
Session Time: Thu Nov 07 00:00:00 2013


00[00:06] <Masao> "Well... honestly I don't know... I mean it's happens a few times before but this time it's differn't... The elder's aren't very pleased with Zetsumie and it's not like he make sthem pleased most of the time any ways."


07[00:15] <Haruko> This time, genuine concern flashed over his features. "W....Well what's the worst they could do? It's not like they could... hurt him or anything... Right?" Haruko wrapped his arms even more tightly around Masao's midsection, snuggling his cheek into his friend's soft albino hair. "He hasn't done anything so terrible..." Haru tried to be coy about things, but he was becoming too worried to
[00:15] <Haruko> play that way.


00[00:25] <Masao> "I honestly don't know- It's not really something that's talked about with our age group... I think the elders and adults dont like us to know either." He nodded softly. "Has Zetsumie said anything?"
[00:28] <Haruko> Haruko bit his lower lip, stuck in a cross-roads. He had precious few choices. He could tell the truth, or make up a fib. And whatever he said might come back to Zetsumie. Or worse, an elder could hear, and things could get worse. When that thought came to him, he decided he really didn't have any choice to make at all. "Actually... He hasn't said a word. I didn't really know he was in trouble
[00:28] <Haruko> at all. u.u; But I thought if I said so, you wouldn't tell me..." With a sigh, he went on, "What's going on? I should know, out of everyone. He's my master..."


00[00:36] <Masao> Masao turned and looked at the younger ebfore simply petting his head. "Poor Haruko. "


07[00:38] <Haruko> "Masao!" He pleaded, pulling on him a bit, insistantly. "I'm serious! You have to tell me now! I'm worried!"


00[00:49] <Masao> Masao sighed softly. "Haruko .... what are you?" Masao asked gently . He was mroe so refering to what his status was and just what he was in their family.


07[00:53] <Haruko> "A ... person on a horse." :< He all but squeaked, a bit sadly, knowing what Masao was asking. Which was why he chose not to address it. He knew Masao was going to say it wasn't his place to ask. "With his friend." u.u;
00[00:57] <Masao> Masao was quiet for a momment as they continue dona little ways. "You're Zetsumie's Kohai.... what dod you think happened to Zetsumie's last kohai?" Masao asked softly letting the words sink in.
[01:01] <Haruko> Haruko pondered in that quiet, wondering if he'd pushed too far. "I don't know." He hadn't really thought about it much. "I suppose he could have run away, or he got into trouble, or... " The red head couldn't force the last option past his lips. He couldn't have died... not with Zetsumie looking out for him.
00[01:02] <Masao> "Well... you are right so far." Masao stated gently. "Do you know what happened?" Masao asked softly.
[01:03] <Haruko> "No... please tell me? I won't tell anyone where I heard." Haruko offered, "Shouldn't I get to know? It's my place now, after all..."
00[01:07] <Masao> Masao paused and moved to pick Hruko up and set him down infront moving himself back. He then wrapped hsi arms around Haruko's chest. "haruko dod you knwo why rules are set in to place?" Masao asked gently.
07[01:11] <Haruko> Haruko frowned a bit at that repositioning. He hadn't sat that way in some time. It was how you rode with someone who didn't know how to do it on their own. But in the interest of staying on Masao's good side, he just relaxed a bit at that embrace, accepting it. "Because they do good... most of the time. But sometimes rules should be broken. Sometimes rules aren't the best for everyone, Masao!
[01:11] <Haruko> ... Sometimes you have to do things your own way."
00[01:17] <Masao> "Well Haruko..." Masao started. "That's just what Katsu thought too." Maso said gently. "Katsu was very good. I mean he was stunning with what he was able to do. However Katsu had this problemw ith egttinga little to excited about thinsg and well... he thought that some times ruels should be broken. One day. Zetsumie and a few other adulst were assigned a mission from the elders. It was a relitively importance mission that held a lot of responcibility and comitment... and high honor... Katsu wante dto go along however Zetsumie forbade it.... the elder forbade it as well... Katsu begged and pleaded with Zetsumie and teh elder.s All teh while he trie dto prove himself more and more and pushed harder. But when it came time to it he was still forbidden to go. None teh less Katsu decided the rules shouldn't have applie dto hima nd he snuck out of teh compound and went along in secret.... Unfortunately Katsu's pressence created quite a mess of things. " Masao explained
07[01:21] <Haruko> As Haruko stayed, wrapped in Masao's arms, the other boy would feel him slumping a bit, further and further as the story went along. As if it were trying to make up for his heart slipping down and down into the pit of his stomach. "... And what happened to him? Katsu, I mean... And what happened to Zetsumie?" He imagined the man couldn't have taken it well. Already, he was so sweet to Haruko.
[01:21] <Haruko> He must have loved the other boy much more dearly, to be with him for so long.
00[01:23] <Masao> "The enemy captured him." Masao stated calmly. He hugged Haruko and snuggled in to him a little.
07[01:30] <Haruko> Haruko stopped asking questions there. He didn't want to know any longer. the details would only keep him up at night. Instead, he snuggled back against Masao, and toyed with the boy's snowy white hands, until he could lace his own fingers with them. For what seemed like the hundredth time, he pondered what a comfort it was to have Masao around.
00[01:31] <Masao> "So you;ll follow the rules right?" Masao asked gently. It was tough but he was keeping a quiver from slipping in to his voice.
06[01:35] * Haruko nodded, his mind full of thoughts, spinning about too fast for him to focus on just one. What had Zetsumie's last kohai been like? Had he been a good boy otherwise? Had he only ever made that one mistake? "I'll follow them. Even if they don't make sense sometimes." The tone of those words seemed as if he were speaking to himself, almost.
00[01:37] <Masao> "Good." Masao ruffled Haruko's red bangs messing his hair up quite a bit. "I like to hear that." he said gently. "So Haruko what kind of cclothing are you hoping on getting?"
[01:41] <Haruko> Haruko ducked down just the small bit that he could, with the sort of half-whine, half-laugh, only a little brother could deliver. "Something that'll make me look... grown up. Something classy, and mature. But not like an old man."
00[01:49] <Masao> "Sound like you wnat to look like a lady than anything." Masao teased. "with words like that!"
[01:55] <Haruko> Haruko's cheeks warmed up right away, even the tips of his ears turning pinkish, as he made sure to face forward and hide that expression. "M-Men can be classy and mature! Zetsumie's very mature! A-And classy! Besides, you didnt' let me finish! I was going to say ... fierce, and intimidating, too. That's what sort of outfit I want." Haru was stricken with the sudden impulse to give one long
07[01:55] <Haruko> lock of Masao's snowy hair a little tug. u///u but he refrained.
00[01:57] <Masao> "Only when he wants to be." Masao chuckled at the thought. Most of the time peopel saw Zetsumie as a brute unless there was an event going on. "Don't worry I'm sure you'll be boyish enough one day =w="
07[02:01] <Haruko> "Ugh!" Haruko all but squeaked at that comment, turning around despite his blush, and giving Masao the most indignant pout he'd likely ever seen. "You're one to talk y'know! You're the prettiest one in the village, including the ladies!" Haruko spoke more honestly than he'd care to admit at a later date. But for now, he did opt to give one of those locks a tug. A nice sharp one too. Though
[02:01] <Haruko> it only lasted a half-second. "Just so you know!" >///<;

03[23:33] * PS changes topic to ' 4You cant see me because I'm a ninja'
00[23:33] <@PS> 00[01:31] <Masao> "So you;ll follow the rules right?" Masao asked gently. It was tough but he was keeping a quiver from slipping in to his voice.
00[23:33] <@PS> 06[01:35] * Haruko nodded, his mind full of thoughts, spinning about too fast for him to focus on just one. What had Zetsumie's last kohai been like? Had he been a good boy otherwise? Had he only ever made that one mistake? "I'll follow them. Even if they don't make sense sometimes." The tone of those words seemed as if he were speaking to himself, almost.
00[23:33] <@PS> 00[01:37] <Masao> "Good." Masao ruffled Haruko's red bangs messing his hair up quite a bit. "I like to hear that." he said gently. "So Haruko what kind of cclothing are you hoping on getting?"
00[23:33] <@PS> [01:41] <Haruko> Haruko ducked down just the small bit that he could, with the sort of half-whine, half-laugh, only a little brother could deliver. "Something that'll make me look... grown up. Something classy, and mature. But not like an old man."
00[23:33] <@PS> 00[01:49] <Masao> "Sound like you wnat to look like a lady than anything." Masao teased. "with words like that!"
00[23:33] <@PS> [01:55] <Haruko> Haruko's cheeks warmed up right away, even the tips of his ears turning pinkish, as he made sure to face forward and hide that expression. "M-Men can be classy and mature! Zetsumie's very mature! A-And classy! Besides, you didnt' let me finish! I was going to say ... fierce, and intimidating, too. That's what sort of outfit I want." Haru was stricken with the sudden impulse to give one long
00[23:33] <@PS> 07[01:55] <Haruko> lock of Masao's snowy hair a little tug. u///u but he refrained.
00[23:33] <@PS> 00[01:57] <Masao> "Only when he wants to be." Masao chuckled at the thought. Most of the time peopel saw Zetsumie as a brute unless there was an event going on. "Don't worry I'm sure you'll be boyish enough one day =w="
00[23:33] <@PS> 07[02:01] <Haruko> "Ugh!" Haruko all but squeaked at that comment, turning around despite his blush, and giving Masao the most indignant pout he'd likely ever seen. "You're one to talk y'know! You're the prettiest one in the village, including the ladies!" Haruko spoke more honestly than he'd care to admit at a later date. But for now, he did opt to give one of those locks a tug. A nice sharp one too. Though
00[23:33] <@PS> [02:01] <Haruko> it only lasted a half-second. "Just so you know!" >///<;
00[23:43] <@PS> "Ow! Hey that's nt allright to do... D;" Masao whinned softly at the smaller before ruffling his red locks. As they continued for a while Masao seemed to hum a soft sweet song. Suddenly they paused before their coarse was diverted from just a bit. Masao lead them off the path towards a spider web. The web was large and looked like silver threads spun in to a beautiful decorative doily. "Now look here." Masao trailed gesturing to the web where a butterfly had just gotten caught. the spider was slowly making his way closer. "What do you think we should do?" Masao asked. should we save the butterfly? or should we not intervene?"
Session Time: Mon Nov 11 00:00:00 2013
07[00:02] <@Haruko> "When you poke a tiger, you should expect to be bitten." u.u Haruko replied, just before returning that little whine, and combing through his hair with his fingers. And things seemed to calm... As Masao hummed, Haruko felt himself relax more and more, until his mind was drifting, daydreaming quietly, and twirling a long lock of hair around one finger. His brow furrowed at the sight, the poor
[00:02] <@Haruko> creature caught up in the spider's web, waiting to become the creepy crawly thing's next meal. "We should save it, of course. It doesn't deserve to be eaten." But somehow, he got the feeling he was giving the wrong answer.
00[00:04] <@PS> "Should we let the spider starve?" Masao asked gently.
07[00:09] <@Haruko> "well... no..." Haruko fumbled, looking from Masao to the web, the poor helpless thing fluttering for it's freedom. "But... But it can eat something else..." His hands fidgeted, wanting to reach out and pluck the creature free. "There are plenty of other bugs."
00[00:12] <@PS> "Why not this one?" Masao asked gently. "Should we let the spider suffer? This is teh winter after all..." he trailed gently.
[00:15] <@Haruko> Haruko felt a little trapped in his answer, though he didn't want to change it, his pride keeping him defending that choice. In the end, he simply said, "...w...well because the spider is disgusting and mean! The butterfly didn't do anything, why should it suffer?"
00[00:20] <@PS> "The spider is only trying to survive... what dd it do that wasn't just what it was made for? Why should the spider suffer?" Masao asked softly and gently as if curious to know Haruko's next awnser.
06[00:26] * @Haruko struggled with his words for a moment, quickly becoming heated, and squeaking out a frustrated, "I don't know! I just don't like it!" He turned away from the web completely and added, in a rather grumbly tone, "Why'd you ask in the first place, if you already know so much?"
03[00:27] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
00[00:35] <@PS> "To better explain a fe wthings to you... " Masao started. "You may come across a tall ghastly looking man whom looks as if he's not eaten in quite some time... if you look closely you would beable to make out his bones... His name is Daisuke and he can ushually be found wearing a long poncho like tattered cloak... He dosent talk much... It's very rare to actually hear words form him and when he dose speak it's ushually very little sticking to a little as could be said... Daisuke sensei is the type of teacher whom whouldnt bother with such a thing either way if the choice came to him he'd sit and watch what happens helping niether teh spider or the butterfly. Kodora-sensei on the other hand wouldn't help the butterfly on the idea that perhaps a bird might want the spider...I've been told many a times by my own teacher that it wasn't my place to make such a descision. Kyosuke-sensei says that if the spider is truely hungery he'll try his best to captur eteh butterfly... and he said if the butterfly isn't ready to die it will free it's self. " Masao offered gently. "He said neither needs my help..." He trailed. "Do you know what Zetsumie-sensei says ?" he asked Haruko.
[00:40] <@Haruko> "... What does he say?" Haruko asked cautiously, getting the bad feeling that his answer would be like the others'. And truthfully, he could see the sense in those answers. They were technically correct. But his heart said they were wrong, no matter what his mind said. u.u His heart said it was wrong not to help someone who needed you...
00[00:50] <@PS> Masao shook his head gently. "Zetsumie sensei never awnsers me. " Masao offered softly. Masao reached out and pointe dto teh butterfly wings. "If you tiuch a butterfly... their wings get mesed up and then tehy die shortly after..." He offered.
[00:53] <@Haruko> Haruko was silent for a short time, as he watched the butterfly struggle uselessly, the dilemma swirling around in his mind. "Maybe because he thinks you should decide the answer on your own. And follow your own morals, when you're stuck with a hard decision." He said, with some finality, reaching out, and breaking the long strands surrounding the butterfly with h is fingertip one by one,
[00:54] <@Haruko> careful not to touch it.
00[01:04] <@PS> "Maybe." Masao said in an agreeable tone as he watched Haruko breaka few strands of webbing. With in a few mommenst the butterfly fluttered free of it's trap. " Careful not to get bit." Masao warned softly.
07[01:11] <@Haruko> "I think if you do what you think is really right in your own heart, no matter what happens, you won't have any regrets." Haruko smiled. as the little thing fluttered off, and at Masao's warning, he snatched his hand away quickly. "Besides, a butterfly would never bite me." ^^
00[01:17] <@PS> A spider might though..." Masao said furrowing his brows woundering just how quickly Haruko put the 'lesson' Masao was trying to bestowe uppon him with the little tid bit of what happened to Zetsumie's last apprentice. "Even if it goes against the rules?" Masao asked gently, hopefully reminding Haruko of what could happen.
[01:26] <@Haruko> "... If it's against the rules, I'd think about it alot more. And I'd think if I was doing it for the right reasons." Haruko said, thoughtfully. But quickly admitted, "But I would never break the clan's rules as easily as breaking a spider web. Because it's not just about me. It's about Zetsumie-sensei too. And the last thing I want to do is betray him or make him look like a poor master."
00[01:29] <@PS> "Ah Haruko you certainly are wise beyond your years..." masao pured. though curious... if I were to have told you it was against teh rules for you to touch the web what would you have done then to reach your goal?" Masao asked gently.
[01:30] <@Haruko> "Easy." Haruko grinned. "I'd pick up a stick and do it that way." ^^
00[01:38] <@PS> "I see." Masao purred. "Well you're very clever little Haruko." Masao said as they continued on. The town's clearing wasn't too far up ahead of them at this point. "
[01:45] <@Haruko> "Thank you... I think you're clever too. You seem like you're always thinking about something important." Haruko was feeling pretty well about himself at that point. And luckily for him, town was near. He was getting fidgety and restless atop that horse. "Thank goodness. I think my legs are forgetting how to walk."
00[01:48] <@PS> Masao roughly patted teh outside of Haruko's thigh. "I bet you are using msucle syou're not used to using... you'll be soar I certainly belive." Masao chuckled.
[01:54] <@Haruko> "Well that means my legs are getting stronger now, right?" Haruko asked, squirming a little in his seat. His thighs did feel a bit on the tender side. "Just like my arms were yesterday. If I keep this up, I'll look like a well seasoned warrior in no time at all." With that, he flexed his arms, to see how much muscle had accumulated.
03[03:26] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
02[08:15] * @Haruko ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout)
03[14:57] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night
Session Time: Tue Nov 12 00:00:01 2013
00[00:13] <@PS> "A little." Masao agreed softly. "Can I trust you to gather clothing on your own?" Masaoa sked softly.
03[00:14] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
[00:17] <@Haruko> "Of course." Haruko agreed, rather cheerfully. "My brother sent me to do the shopping all the time, and I never really had trouble." Everyone in his village knew the boys, and had been exeptionally sweet to them, especially the smaller of the pair. Of course he had never encountered trouble.
00[00:21] <@PS> "Well allright." Masao picked Haruko up and moved himsetting him on the ground. "I have to go around and pick up a fe wthings." Masao pointed off to what looked liek an abandoned shake by the edge of town. "Meet me back there once you're done alright?" He asked softly.



---------- Post added at 12:46 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:45 PM ----------

[00:27] <@Haruko> Haruko made a little noise as he was hoisted up, and adjusted his clothes again, once his feet were firmly on the ground, nodding. "Alright. I can do that easy enough. I don't think I'll take too long, either." And with that, he waved, and went on his way, shouting behind him, "Good luck! See you later!" ^^ The boy had a spring in his step, and a smile on his face. It felt good to be trusted
[00:27] <@Haruko> on his own, to take care of things. It tasted like sweet freedom.
00[00:29] <@PS> Masao waved teh lad good bye and started off to start his morning errands going from shop to shop to pick up what was requested. Slowly more and more peopel seemed t fill teh empty streets. ships coming in and going out- crowds formed and teh noise levle grew.
[00:36] <@Haruko> Haruko started off well enough, browsing each shop's wares carefully, and curiously. It would come in handy if and when he came back next time, to know where everything was. But as crowds began filing in, and filling up the streets, he regretted not finding a clothing shop straight away. Soon enough, he was being bumped about here and there, his shoulders seemingly right at a painful elbow
[00:36] <@Haruko> level for most of the men. o_<; He was sure to have a bruise there by the end of the day. Finally, he was forced to duck into the nearest shop, to find some repreive from the crowd. And luckily for him, it seemed to be filled with lovely things to eat. But what caught his eye most were the sugary candy sticks tucked away into a glass jar...
00[00:44] <@PS> There were a few flavors set out in the jar. The shop owner it's self was currently tending to a customer explaining how his goods were the best in town and just why the customer should try out his new creation. Unfortunately for Haruko the cut purse of the streets were already alive and working this fine morning. He was an easy target to pick out. Had he not stowed his back away he might find nothing but strings attached to his wrist.
[02:17] <@Haruko> Haruko patiently waited his turn in line, and as he approached the shop owner, he beamed brightly, asking for a pair of the delicious sugary treats. And as he gazed down to pull open his purse, his heart fell. It felt as if it fell an impossible drop, thousands, and thousands of feet, to violently crash on the ground in pieces. "...no... No, NO!" His voice raised in pitch and volume, as he
[02:17] <@Haruko> searched around the shop's floor in vain. "My money! Someone took my money!" He shouted, panicked, and just about hopping in place. He looked all about the shop, for anyone seedy-looking, his heart thumping and racing!
00[02:22] <@PS> Poor Haruko's sudden and frantic seach turned up nothing. Not a sould around seemed particularly interested in the lad and well it was awefully busy out side. The shop keeper seeemd a bit bewildered at the boy's sudden out burst but clearly frowned on such behavior in his shop. It seemed this town was just full of unfriendly faces as peopel glanced his way but wuickly turned thier noses up uppon seeing him.
[02:31] <@Haruko> Haruko had never been in such a heartless place before. Had he been at home, he'd have had villagers running to his aid, if he, or anyone had something stolen that way! But these people... these infuriating, frustrating people didn't care one bit! His first impulse was anger. He demanded that someone stop standing around and help him! And shortly after, seeing a sea of uncaring, and even
07[02:31] <@Haruko> contempt-weilding faces, his next move was to stifle himself, as a hard lump stuck in his throat, and his face felt warm, and his eyes felt prickly, and hot... He didn't know what to do! What could he do all on his own? and in a sudden desperation, he hurried to the place he was supposed to meet Masao, hoping and praying that the older boy could help.
00[02:38] <@PS> Poor Haruko was all on his own it seemed. Not a soul seemed to stop by and help not a single one. There was however some one whom as currently making quick work of the mourning routines with in town. Their clothing was not the finest in the least. a large Muffler and hooded cloak covered their face from view. They pilfered some plums, along with a few dumplings and pocketed the treats hastily walking away. They hadn't seemed to have taken notice of Haruko's despair as they started over towards that shop to perhaps take a gander here and there.
00[02:38] <@PS> Meanwhile Masao was briskly bartering his way in to cheaper good. He'd just about completed the majority of his tasks having a good head on his shoulders as well as a great understanding of the area. He just needed three more things before going in search of Haruko.
07[02:43] <@Haruko> Seeing the abandoned shack quite thoroughly empty, Haruko turned on his heel, and strode back into town, in search of either help, Masao, or the person who took his money! And as for the uncaring crowd.... well, if they didn't care about him, he didn't care about them. Soon, he was dashing between the hustling bustling lines, not sparing a small shove here and there, looking all about, for
[02:43] <@Haruko> anyone who looked particularly theif-like, or anyone who looked recently robbed as well.
00[02:47] <@PS> In Haruko's rush to move he ran in to the short stature thief and the figure staggered back. Gloved hands went up to the face right around where the nose area might have been. "Hey~! Watch where you're going!" Came and indignant voice.
[02:51] <@Haruko> Haruko froze in place, turning to the cloaked figure with a wince. Had he just hit this poor person? In the face, no less? It seemed he wasn't quite as careless as he was letting himself believe, in his tyrade. "Are you okay?" He asked, with some concern. "I just- ... I'm in a hurry, I didn't intend to... I'm sorry." He put his hands in front of him in an 'I surrender' motion.
00[02:53] <@PS> "Oh yeah where's the fire?" He asked looking about as if to identify the emergancy.
[02:58] <@Haruko> "I have to find my friend. I'm in serious trouble right now, and I don't know what to do." Haruko confessed, clutching his own upper arms. "It's my first time in a place like this by myself, and I lost my money, and it wasn't even mine to begin with. My master's going to disown me..." He couldn't help the tight squeakyness in that last sentence, as he poured his guts out to the stranger he'd
[02:58] <@Haruko> just plowed right into.
00[03:02] <@PS> The short figured seemed to deflate. "Oh... well... is there anything I can do to help you?" He asked feelinga twinge of empathy for the redheadded male. "What's your friend look like?"
07[03:05] <@Haruko> "I don't know what you could do to find a criminal..." Haruko said, dejectedly. "He's got white hair, and white skin, and red eyes... like if a dove became a person." He said, imagining Masao in his mind's eye. "Long hair, and he's about this tall..." He held up a hand just a bit above his head. "And he's riding a great big horse."
00[03:07] <@PS> The cloaked figure bound up on to a lantern poste and scaled up it's side climbng a bit higher than the crow taht surroundded them . he looked about left and right, and all around. He narrowed his eyes seeing Masao in the distance. "I see you're friend... he's awefully far off though..." The cloaked male offered from his perch.
07[03:11] <@Haruko> Haruko looked on in surprise, as the figure seemingly shimmied up the pole with no trouble at all. And at those words, he visibly brightened for a moment. "Oh! Thank you! Which way is he?" He asked, peering in that direction, trying to catch a glimse of Masao through the crowd. "I wish I had something to give you for helping me... But absolutely everything's been stolen."
00[03:13] <@PS> "Catch." The cloaked figured tossed down a large plumb. He started down a bit more and pointe din said directl
00[03:13] <@PS> direction. The raven haired youth took ahold of Haruko's wrist and started that way dodging this way and that and weaving through the mass of people.
[03:15] <@Haruko> Haruko caught the plum between two hands, and glanced down at it, and back up to the stranger. "... Thank you." He began, as they weaved their way through the crowd faster than Haru had been able to do himself, even when he was angry "You've been the nicest person I've met all day. Everybody here is so selfish!"
00[03:18] <@PS> "That's life!" he started and carefully side stepped away froma group of folks wearing blue over coats and donned lareg swords on their hips. " You gotta be quick and clever if youw ant to survive. " He offered. Masao came in to view about fifty feet ahead. He was mcuh easier to spot seeing that he was mounted.
07[03:23] <@Haruko> "That's awful..." Haruko frowned. "People shouldn't steal from one another. It's not a life I'd want to be part of. There's no honor in it." And as Masao came into view, it was Haruko's turn to lead the way, rushing ahead. "Masao! Masao!" he called, pulling the stranger along. At about fifteen feet away, he began to explain. "It's awful! Someone stole my pouch, the money, all of it's gone!
[03:23] <@Haruko> All of Zetsumie's money, he's going to be so angry with me!"
00[03:28] <@PS> The cloaked figure blinked and puleld against Haruko as he neared. Masao's attention was garnered quite easily and Kuro was turned suddenly in a short space and peopel seemed to get of of teh beasts way. Kuro staretd forward and soon rose up rearing high. Haruko was suddenly pushed to the side as the cloaked male dove off to the opposing side as those huge hooves came crashing down in a rough stomp. "Stay with the horse Haruko!" the darker barreled off towards abuilding but Masao leaft off Kuro's back, drawinga dagger and pounced on the cloaked boy the two of them went tumbling beneath a building.
07[03:35] <@Haruko> Haruko went wide-eyed as a pair of hooves reared up, stumbling as he was pushed aside, and nearly toppling onto his backside. He'd never have expected it from the usually calm beast, and took hold of Kuro's reigns... right up until he saw Masao pounce on his newly made friend. Haruko shouted, and bounded after the pair, pulling Kuro behind. "Wait, Stop! What're you doing?!" he shouted after
07[03:35] <@Haruko> Masao, "Stop it!" He stooped to look under the building, bewildered, and afraid.
00[03:40] <@PS> As things stood the children were making quite a scene in the market place. Masao and the unknown boy were scrapping beneath the building and soon tumbled in to a side street in the dust. Knives were drawn and they were grappling with one another. Masao Was kicked in the throat and he fell back for a moment coughing and hacking . The darker started to turn tail and scuttle away. Masao stabbed the knife forwards and caught that cloak and with a tear he pulled free and high tailed it out of there disappearing in to the city. Masao look unshelled thanks to that little spat and it looked like he had a bruise forming on his face.
07[03:46] <@Haruko> As Haruko watched from the sidelines, he felt helpless, frightened, and horrified. Masao could have been killed! Yet the glint from the pair of blades kept him frozen in his place, unwilling to rush in and risk the danger. "Are you okay!? What was that, I don't understand!" Haruko fumbled over his words, trying to force them all out in a hurry. "What were you doing?! He was just helping me!"
00[03:50] <@PS> Masao's look was heated and dark and for a moment it was turned on to Haruko but it quickly faded. "We do not associate with their kind. " Masao said simply and he returned the knife to it's proper hiding spot. "Now what's all this? You say you were robbed? It's a shame I didn't catch him this time." Masao said glancing off in the direction Haruko's little helper left in.
[03:54] <@Haruko> "Catch..." Haruko trailed, before realization struck. "Catch him?!You think he took my money?!" The boy shook his head. "He was the only one in town who was willing to help me!"
00[03:55] <@PS> "That was a thief Haruko...." Masao stated. "He;s no good." Masao added seemingly quite sure of hismself. He hoisted Haruko up and set him on Kuro's saddle.
07[03:58] <@Haruko> "... but..." Haruko replied, with a frown. "Shouldn't we go after him? If he's got my- I mean, Zetsumie's money?" and all of a sudden, he seemed to remember the implications of losing so much money. "Masao, what am I going to do? That was so much! Zetsumie's going to disown me! he'll skin me and sell the hide to make just a fraction of that money back!" The boy dramatized. "What am I going
[03:58] <@Haruko> to do?!"
00[04:06] <@PS> "You're going to get your clothing... like we were sent to get." Masao explained. "Like you were supposse dto do." Masao stated. "Come on." he started to lead Kuro along.
07[04:11] <@Haruko> "But I don't have any money." Haruko frowned. "Aren't you worried? Zetsumie's already angry with me... What's to keep him from finding a student who can tell when he's been robbed?" And as they walked along, he asked, "... Aren't you getting on?" Being led that way felt oddly similar to Masao leading him by the hand... with less control on his part. u.u;
00[04:13] <@PS> "No I'm not.... I want you up there and protected..." masao didn't sound too pleased. "I have a bit left over we nee dto get you your stuff and get going." He said. "Have you found any place you wanted to go to just yet?" Masao asked.
[04:18] <@Haruko> "Not yet..." He confessed, "But honestly, I don't have anything to protect anymore. It's been taken away already, unless they want the shirt off my back." Haruko sounded sullen and unhappy. "Any old place will do. I don't think I enjoy this town at all. No one gives a care if someone lives or dies around here, so long as they're not bothered..."
00[04:21] <@PS> "haruko..." Masao calle dhis tone oddly taking on that of a warning sound. The ruffled up albino boy looked up at the redheadded youth. They drew and aweful lot of attnetion with their peculiar colors and teh large horse they had. Havinga a horse emant you had power it was a wounder why no one tried to take Kuro from them yet. It seemed most of the twons folk were familiar with Masao's appreance.
07[04:24] <@Haruko> "Masao." He returned, curtly, folding his arms over his chest. His mind didn't wander to how much the two of them stuck out, like a pair of sore thumbs. Only on the mess he'd gotten himself into, and how hard it would be to get out of it. And how silly and stupid he felt trying to make nice with the person who helped land him directly into the middle of that trouble. And how he stood there
[04:24] <@Haruko> and watched him run away.

00[23:56] <PS> 00[04:13] <@PS> "No I'm not.... I want you up there and protected..." masao didn't sound too pleased. "I have a bit left over we nee dto get you your stuff and get going." He said. "Have you found any place you wanted to go to just yet?" Masao asked.
00[23:56] <PS> [04:18] <@Haruko> "Not yet..." He confessed, "But honestly, I don't have anything to protect anymore. It's been taken away already, unless they want the shirt off my back." Haruko sounded sullen and unhappy. "Any old place will do. I don't think I enjoy this town at all. No one gives a care if someone lives or dies around here, so long as they're not bothered..."
00[23:56] <PS> 00[04:21] <@PS> "haruko..." Masao calle dhis tone oddly taking on that of a warning sound. The ruffled up albino boy looked up at the redheadded youth. They drew and aweful lot of attnetion with their peculiar colors and teh large horse they had. Havinga a horse emant you had power it was a wounder why no one tried to take Kuro from them yet. It seemed most of the twons folk were familiar with Masao's appreance.
00[23:56] <PS> 07[04:24] <@Haruko> "Masao." He returned, curtly, folding his arms over his chest. His mind didn't wander to how much the two of them stuck out, like a pair of sore thumbs. Only on the mess he'd gotten himself into, and how hard it would be to get out of it. And how silly and stupid he felt trying to make nice with the person who helped land him directly into the middle of that trouble. And how he stood there
00[23:56] <PS> [04:24] <@Haruko> and watched him run away.
Session Time: Wed Nov 16 00:00:00 2033
00[00:11] <PS> Masao for the most part was steaming beneath his color as he led Kuro through the crowd. He could hear the whispers of others talking about the two of them. His face was flushed but he wore an angry expression. Silently he bit hi lower lip as he tried to think about what was perhaps the best thing to do. He glanced back over his shoulder at Haruko. He felt his heart fall seeing the youth's expression and he turned away quickly . To Haruko the sudden movement may have seemed like Masao couldn't stand to look at him for the time being but the truth was he couldn't bare it just knowing what perhaps Zetsumie might do to him should he find out. Haruko stopped out side a rather nice looking shop and he swallowed hard feeling his mouth having gone dry. "Haruko... Don't worry about anything.... Just keep quiet about what happened... alright?" He asked as he moved to tie Kuro off. "Come on let's get you something to wear... then we are going home. " Masao said gently, his voice sounding softer and less stern.
[00:19] <Haruko> Haruko's shoulders shrugged up a bit, meekly, at Masao's sudden move. He hadn't meant to offend him, or push him away... He was just frustrated. Haru felt like perhaps he should apologize for snapping at Masao, but preffered silence for a moment, instead. "But... But isn't that the same as lying? Zetsumie will ask for his money when we return... How will I explain it?" Haru frowned, looking
[00:19] <Haruko> defeated. But at least Masao didn't seem to be angry with him. And this time, he actually waited to be helped down,instead of simply jumping off.
00[00:25] <PS> Masao paused realizing Haruko needed help. He hung his head so the snowy bangs veiled his eyes. Masao stepped over to Haruko and reached up helping him off the large horse. "I'll talk to Zetsumie about it... okay? Don't worry..." Masao offered gently and took Haruko's hand in his before leading him in to the shop. "Go on... I have enough to cover our expenses get what you want." Masao said gently.
[00:31] <Haruko> Haruko's expression dampened, as he caught sight of Masao's hanging head, and he wondered just what the older boy was planning. Adn as he was pulled into the shop, he whispered, "I can't help but worry, when you're worried..." Certain that Masao didn't want the shop owner knowing their business. And it was true. If there was one trait Haruko both wished he could change, and was glad he
[00:31] <Haruko> couldn't, it was his sense of empathy. All the same, he took a slow stroll around the shop, looking here and there... and settled on an exotic looking, but subtly classy outfit, made of green hues, that he thought looked natural, and blended nicely with the outdoors.
00[00:34] <PS> Masao patted Haruko on the shoulder and he offered a smile. "I'm not worried little Haruko. " Masao purred softly. He followed Haruko about and looked over the garments he seemed to be taking interest in. "Those would look lovely on you Haruko." He purred gently. "Is tehre anything els eyou may want as well? " Masao asked softly.
[00:38] <Haruko> "You seem like you're headed to an execution... not toward home." Haruko corrected. "... but do you really think so?" He asked, holding the garment to the front of his body. "... Shoes would be nice. I don't want to borrow someone else's every time we have to go somewhere." Especially some that were so impoartant, he added in his head. Fortunately for him, a pair of green slippers were nestled
[00:38] <Haruko> below the outfit in a nicely trimmed box. "These. If it's alright." Haruko looked brightened, though not quite his usual carefree self just yet.
00[01:24] <PS> "Try them on and see if they'll fit." Masao coaxed gently. He shifte dtrhough a few otehr items and pulle dout soem darker blue and violet colored garments. "I think these would look nice on you too." Masao offered gently. They were a bit simpler but they still looked ratehr nice and fit in with teh style of teh green ones Haruko plucked up.
[01:28] <Haruko> Haruko slipped his feet out of the wooden sandals and into the soft slippers, the fabric feeling luxurious against his skin. They must have been lined with a fine fabric. Silk, perhaps. "They do look nice. But considering..." Haru let his voice trail a moment. "Can we really get them?"
00[01:32] <PS> "Yes." Masao purred softly. "We can." He assured. Masao had allready taken in to account just what they'd cost too.
[01:35] <Haruko> Haruko smiled a bit at that, glad to have things that were his own again. It seemed like it had been a long time since whatever he had used or worn or eaten hadn't belonged to someone else. It was almost enough to push away the gloomy little cloud that had hung over him since he'd discovered nothing but strings around his wrist. "Thanks" He said, carrying his things toward the merchant, who
[01:35] <Haruko> had been watching them eagerly.
00[02:18] <PS> Masao sighed softly as he looked about with curiosity following Haruko to teh counter. He narrowed his eyes on a small bird whistle. "I'd liek one of those too please..." He said gently and the merchants eeme dto fetch it down off teh shelf for him. It was a painted nighting gale. Masao pulle dout a back from his gi top and paide the man before escorting Haruko on out. He packed their thinsg in to one of the saddle bags and handed teh whistle to Haruko before picking him up and placing him on teh hores's back. "Next time you're in trouble you blow that as loud as you can... you got that?" Masao asked.
[02:25] <Haruko> Haruko looked curiously at the little bird whistle. "... Do you like birds, Masao?" He asked, conversationally, as they walked out of the shop. "It's very pretty." And was surprised to see it placed into his own hand instead. Quickly followed by Masao hoisting him up onto Kuro's back himself. He was beginning to feel just a little indulged again, and it made him feel equal parts embarrassed,
[02:25] <Haruko> frustrated, and oddly enough... grateful, and taken care of. It was an odd mix, to be certain. He nodded, of course, but added in, "I don't plan on there being a next time. You don't have to worry about me. I don't make the same mistake twice, if I can help it."
00[02:47] <PS> Well then..." Masao hopped up and moved to sit behind Haruko and he wrapped his arms around teh younger. "You said that little thief helped you? " Masao asked curious to hear out Haruko's side of teh tale now.
[02:55] <Haruko> Haruko nodded, turning the whistle over in his hands, and examining it. "Yes. I was shopping, and I looked down, and most of the pouch was just gone... And nobody- not one person in this whole place was willing to help me! So I tried to find you, and I couldn't, and I just got..." He paused to think of a word that wasn't 'upset'. "Frustrated. And he was the only one who would help me find
[02:55] <Haruko> you. And when we got to you, you attacked him, I didn't know what was happening!" Haruko explained, with animated hand movements. "I've never met a theif before, I didn't know what one would look like!"
00[03:00] <PS> "Most of the pouch?" Masao asked softly. He sighed shaking his head. "A Thief can look like any one Haruko." Masao explained. "I've encounted /that one/ quiet a few times... I'd guess he's the one who took your pouch." Masao added in with a sort of disgruntled tone.
[03:04] <Haruko> "There was only the strings left..." Haruko admitted, keeping his eyes focused on the whistle. It was a good distraction for the moment. He felt beyond silly at just how easily he'd been had. "... You mean you don't know that he took it for sure?" Haru asked, looking over his shoulder. "Because he was awfully nice..."
00[03:07] <PS> "I didn't see it on him but I saw you with him.... and I honestly wasn't with you when it was taken." Masao said. "But I've had problems with /him/ before."
[03:10] <Haruko> "What kinds of problems?" Haru asked, "Has he taken something from you before?" He hoped it wasn't anything like what was taken today. u.u; Poor Masao would be hung out to dry for sure.
00[03:10] <PS> "Yes he has.
00[03:11] <PS> " Masao started gently. "And he's stolen from Kodora and Zetsumie befor etoo... one time it didn't go over too well for him. "
[03:14] <Haruko> Those two names certainly got Haruko's attention quickly, and he all but gaped back at Masao in disbelief. "... Really?! he's that good?!" the boy all but squeaked. "To get Zetsumie!?" He couldn't even imagine it. "What happened? They can't have caught him! He looked pretty alive to me." o_o;
00[03:17] <PS> "Well that one time Zetsumie snatche dhim up right quick and he pulled out of his jacket but Zetsumie was wise to that trick that time and so he snatched him up by a wrist and twiste dhis arm behind his back." Masao started to explain as he recalled the event. "Kodora didn'tw ant Zetsumie to hurt him so they only roughed him up a bit. He's taken stuff from us with out them noticing before."
[03:22] <Haruko> Haruko listened on the edge of his seat, with the sort of attentiveness many an adult or elder kid in the past would have killed for, when teaching him. "Wow, I can't believe someone would have the courage to try to steal from those two. That kid didn't know what he was getting into." The redhead shook his head in disbelief. "And I can't believe he's still stealing after that. I'd have been
[03:22] <Haruko> scared straight."
00[03:25] <PS> "He hasn't taken from us since the time he's been caught." Masao offered. "Why was he helping you?" Masao asked woundering why some one like /that/ would try to help Haruko.
[03:26] <Haruko> "Because I asked him to." Haruko replied, very simply. "I couldn't find you anywhere, and the crowd was too thick, and too tall for me to look over."
00[03:27] <PS> Masao blinked... "So you've been talking to strangers then?" He asked witha frown.
[03:29] <Haruko> If Haruko had been a puppy, his ears would have been flat just then. "... Not for no reason. I really did need help, and I couldn't find you! I've never been to a place like this before."
[03:29] <Haruko> he replied, defensively*
00[03:30] <PS> "You little brat..." Masao huffed. "You're not suppossed to talk to strangers that's have bad stuff happens!" Masao huffed.
[03:32] <Haruko> Haruko stiffened up with frustration, shaking his head. "That's not fair! Bad stuff happened before I talked to any strangers and I was minding my own business!" he huffed right back. "Besides! How's somebody supposed to be a warrior when you're too chicken to even talk to anybody?!"
00[03:35] <PS> "You're not a warrior Haruko." Masao stated rather sternly. "You're a child." Masao corrected. "And you were a lost child and you were un armed scared and overwhelmed in a strange new enviornmeant. This is why I shouldn't have left you alone." Masao said gruffly.
[03:39] <Haruko> "But I'm going to-" Haruko began to argue, before taking in that tone, and biting his tongue. And by the end of that statement, he was blushing, glaring, and downright indignant. "Stop saying that!" he shouted, likely attracting all sorts of attention. "You're not that much older than me, Masao! You don't get to talk like you're an old man already! You were punished just yesterday, if you
[03:39] <Haruko> recall!"
00[03:44] <PS> Masao pulled the reigns on Kuro bringing the horse to a hault. He tied the reings on to the saddle and dismounted. He looked a bit flushed in the face and appread indignat. "Go home Haruko." He stated as he started to walk the other way. As if to emphasize his order he gave Kuro's hind quarter a sharp swat and the Horse juolted off right away at a galop .
[03:52] <Haruko> Haruko regretted his words, as Masao got down off the horse, though he didn't admit it. He was still feeling aggrivated about the whole thing. But at those words, he felt his stomach drop, suddenly and violently. "... But..." Haru began to protest, that he didn't know his way home by himself! And, since he had no experience riding on his own, he had to hold on tightly with both hands, to keep
[03:52] <Haruko> from falling off right away. It didn't take long for panic to set in, realizing that he couldn't steer the animal at all, and that no one would know where to find him when it finally stopped. So, with no other option that he could see, Haruko turned to sit side-saddle... And lept off the tall animal, as it galloped, only to land in a small heap on the ground, wincing.
00[03:57] <PS> Masao was making his way back towards town. He planned on doing some rounds and perhaps looking to see if he could find any one using that bag. He'd started asking around to teh shop keepers too. Maybe Haruko just dropped it or some thing. Kuro on the only hand galloped quickly back towards the home.
[04:04] <Haruko> Haruko frowned, pushing himself up off the ground with the intent to dust himself off. But, when he tried to rise to his feet, his left ankle screamed out in pain, and he quickly turned to sit on his backside instead. He was panting with pain, and disbelief at just how much that had hurt... Looking down at the sore appendage, he found his ankle reddened, and swelling up a bit. It had a small
[04:04] <Haruko> purplish splotch where it had landed wrong, as well. Biting his lower lip, Haruko looked from one side to the other, for anyone about, and began to worry for an entirely new reason. If Masao thought it was dangerous to talk to strangers, Haruko wanted to know how he felt when there weren't any about in a time of need. u.u;
00[04:21] <PS> Masao spent his tiem slowly letting the hours drift by untill the sun starte dto set. Kodora was the one whom foudn Kuro returning home with no children on and quickly mounted before starting towards town.
[04:28] <Haruko> In the meantime, Haruko had pulled himself upto a nearby fence, and used it as leverage to begin walking. Where to, he didn't know. As silly and stupid as it was, he felt betrayed and angry with Masao for how he acted, and wasn't about to head back toward town and beg for help. His ankle would feel better soon. He'd had little bumps and bruises before, and they'd always gotten better within
[04:28] <Haruko> a day or two. Though... they'd never felt quite so painful. u.u; Soon enough, he found out precisely what that fence was there for, as an elderly man tending to his feild of vegetables waved to him, and trotted over, concern crossing his features. A short conversation later, Haruko had explained that he was far from home, and had fallen and hurt himself, and the man was soon helping him
[04:28] <Haruko> shuffle inside for a cup of tea. He'd insisted that 'no, no, it was the least he could do.' and that 'someone would give him a good turn later on, for his karma now.'

[Passionate Shadow]

[00:27] <@Haruko> Haruko made a little noise as he was hoisted up, and adjusted his clothes again, once his feet were firmly on the ground, nodding. "Alright. I can do that easy enough. I don't think I'll take too long, either." And with that, he waved, and went on his way, shouting behind him, "Good luck! See you later!" ^^ The boy had a spring in his step, and a smile on his face. It felt good to be trusted
[00:27] <@Haruko> on his own, to take care of things. It tasted like sweet freedom.
00[00:29] <@PS> Masao waved teh lad good bye and started off to start his morning errands going from shop to shop to pick up what was requested. Slowly more and more peopel seemed t fill teh empty streets. ships coming in and going out- crowds formed and teh noise levle grew.
[00:36] <@Haruko> Haruko started off well enough, browsing each shop's wares carefully, and curiously. It would come in handy if and when he came back next time, to know where everything was. But as crowds began filing in, and filling up the streets, he regretted not finding a clothing shop straight away. Soon enough, he was being bumped about here and there, his shoulders seemingly right at a painful elbow
[00:36] <@Haruko> level for most of the men. o_<; He was sure to have a bruise there by the end of the day. Finally, he was forced to duck into the nearest shop, to find some repreive from the crowd. And luckily for him, it seemed to be filled with lovely things to eat. But what caught his eye most were the sugary candy sticks tucked away into a glass jar...
00[00:44] <@PS> There were a few flavors set out in the jar. The shop owner it's self was currently tending to a customer explaining how his goods were the best in town and just why the customer should try out his new creation. Unfortunately for Haruko the cut purse of the streets were already alive and working this fine morning. He was an easy target to pick out. Had he not stowed his back away he might find nothing but strings attached to his wrist.
[02:17] <@Haruko> Haruko patiently waited his turn in line, and as he approached the shop owner, he beamed brightly, asking for a pair of the delicious sugary treats. And as he gazed down to pull open his purse, his heart fell. It felt as if it fell an impossible drop, thousands, and thousands of feet, to violently crash on the ground in pieces. "...no... No, NO!" His voice raised in pitch and volume, as he
[02:17] <@Haruko> searched around the shop's floor in vain. "My money! Someone took my money!" He shouted, panicked, and just about hopping in place. He looked all about the shop, for anyone seedy-looking, his heart thumping and racing!
00[02:22] <@PS> Poor Haruko's sudden and frantic seach turned up nothing. Not a sould around seemed particularly interested in the lad and well it was awefully busy out side. The shop keeper seeemd a bit bewildered at the boy's sudden out burst but clearly frowned on such behavior in his shop. It seemed this town was just full of unfriendly faces as peopel glanced his way but wuickly turned thier noses up uppon seeing him.
[02:31] <@Haruko> Haruko had never been in such a heartless place before. Had he been at home, he'd have had villagers running to his aid, if he, or anyone had something stolen that way! But these people... these infuriating, frustrating people didn't care one bit! His first impulse was anger. He demanded that someone stop standing around and help him! And shortly after, seeing a sea of uncaring, and even
07[02:31] <@Haruko> contempt-weilding faces, his next move was to stifle himself, as a hard lump stuck in his throat, and his face felt warm, and his eyes felt prickly, and hot... He didn't know what to do! What could he do all on his own? and in a sudden desperation, he hurried to the place he was supposed to meet Masao, hoping and praying that the older boy could help.
00[02:38] <@PS> Poor Haruko was all on his own it seemed. Not a soul seemed to stop by and help not a single one. There was however some one whom as currently making quick work of the mourning routines with in town. Their clothing was not the finest in the least. a large Muffler and hooded cloak covered their face from view. They pilfered some plums, along with a few dumplings and pocketed the treats hastily walking away. They hadn't seemed to have taken notice of Haruko's despair as they started over towards that shop to perhaps take a gander here and there.
00[02:38] <@PS> Meanwhile Masao was briskly bartering his way in to cheaper good. He'd just about completed the majority of his tasks having a good head on his shoulders as well as a great understanding of the area. He just needed three more things before going in search of Haruko.
07[02:43] <@Haruko> Seeing the abandoned shack quite thoroughly empty, Haruko turned on his heel, and strode back into town, in search of either help, Masao, or the person who took his money! And as for the uncaring crowd.... well, if they didn't care about him, he didn't care about them. Soon, he was dashing between the hustling bustling lines, not sparing a small shove here and there, looking all about, for
[02:43] <@Haruko> anyone who looked particularly theif-like, or anyone who looked recently robbed as well.
00[02:47] <@PS> In Haruko's rush to move he ran in to the short stature thief and the figure staggered back. Gloved hands went up to the face right around where the nose area might have been. "Hey~! Watch where you're going!" Came and indignant voice.
[02:51] <@Haruko> Haruko froze in place, turning to the cloaked figure with a wince. Had he just hit this poor person? In the face, no less? It seemed he wasn't quite as careless as he was letting himself believe, in his tyrade. "Are you okay?" He asked, with some concern. "I just- ... I'm in a hurry, I didn't intend to... I'm sorry." He put his hands in front of him in an 'I surrender' motion.
00[02:53] <@PS> "Oh yeah where's the fire?" He asked looking about as if to identify the emergancy.
[02:58] <@Haruko> "I have to find my friend. I'm in serious trouble right now, and I don't know what to do." Haruko confessed, clutching his own upper arms. "It's my first time in a place like this by myself, and I lost my money, and it wasn't even mine to begin with. My master's going to disown me..." He couldn't help the tight squeakyness in that last sentence, as he poured his guts out to the stranger he'd
[02:58] <@Haruko> just plowed right into.
00[03:02] <@PS> The short figured seemed to deflate. "Oh... well... is there anything I can do to help you?" He asked feelinga twinge of empathy for the redheadded male. "What's your friend look like?"
07[03:05] <@Haruko> "I don't know what you could do to find a criminal..." Haruko said, dejectedly. "He's got white hair, and white skin, and red eyes... like if a dove became a person." He said, imagining Masao in his mind's eye. "Long hair, and he's about this tall..." He held up a hand just a bit above his head. "And he's riding a great big horse."
00[03:07] <@PS> The cloaked figure bound up on to a lantern poste and scaled up it's side climbng a bit higher than the crow taht surroundded them . he looked about left and right, and all around. He narrowed his eyes seeing Masao in the distance. "I see you're friend... he's awefully far off though..." The cloaked male offered from his perch.
07[03:11] <@Haruko> Haruko looked on in surprise, as the figure seemingly shimmied up the pole with no trouble at all. And at those words, he visibly brightened for a moment. "Oh! Thank you! Which way is he?" He asked, peering in that direction, trying to catch a glimse of Masao through the crowd. "I wish I had something to give you for helping me... But absolutely everything's been stolen."
00[03:13] <@PS> "Catch." The cloaked figured tossed down a large plumb. He started down a bit more and pointe din said directl
00[03:13] <@PS> direction. The raven haired youth took ahold of Haruko's wrist and started that way dodging this way and that and weaving through the mass of people.
[03:15] <@Haruko> Haruko caught the plum between two hands, and glanced down at it, and back up to the stranger. "... Thank you." He began, as they weaved their way through the crowd faster than Haru had been able to do himself, even when he was angry "You've been the nicest person I've met all day. Everybody here is so selfish!"
00[03:18] <@PS> "That's life!" he started and carefully side stepped away froma group of folks wearing blue over coats and donned lareg swords on their hips. " You gotta be quick and clever if youw ant to survive. " He offered. Masao came in to view about fifty feet ahead. He was mcuh easier to spot seeing that he was mounted.
07[03:23] <@Haruko> "That's awful..." Haruko frowned. "People shouldn't steal from one another. It's not a life I'd want to be part of. There's no honor in it." And as Masao came into view, it was Haruko's turn to lead the way, rushing ahead. "Masao! Masao!" he called, pulling the stranger along. At about fifteen feet away, he began to explain. "It's awful! Someone stole my pouch, the money, all of it's gone!
[03:23] <@Haruko> All of Zetsumie's money, he's going to be so angry with me!"
00[03:28] <@PS> The cloaked figure blinked and puleld against Haruko as he neared. Masao's attention was garnered quite easily and Kuro was turned suddenly in a short space and peopel seemed to get of of teh beasts way. Kuro staretd forward and soon rose up rearing high. Haruko was suddenly pushed to the side as the cloaked male dove off to the opposing side as those huge hooves came crashing down in a rough stomp. "Stay with the horse Haruko!" the darker barreled off towards abuilding but Masao leaft off Kuro's back, drawinga dagger and pounced on the cloaked boy the two of them went tumbling beneath a building.
07[03:35] <@Haruko> Haruko went wide-eyed as a pair of hooves reared up, stumbling as he was pushed aside, and nearly toppling onto his backside. He'd never have expected it from the usually calm beast, and took hold of Kuro's reigns... right up until he saw Masao pounce on his newly made friend. Haruko shouted, and bounded after the pair, pulling Kuro behind. "Wait, Stop! What're you doing?!" he shouted after
07[03:35] <@Haruko> Masao, "Stop it!" He stooped to look under the building, bewildered, and afraid.
00[03:40] <@PS> As things stood the children were making quite a scene in the market place. Masao and the unknown boy were scrapping beneath the building and soon tumbled in to a side street in the dust. Knives were drawn and they were grappling with one another. Masao Was kicked in the throat and he fell back for a moment coughing and hacking . The darker started to turn tail and scuttle away. Masao stabbed the knife forwards and caught that cloak and with a tear he pulled free and high tailed it out of there disappearing in to the city. Masao look unshelled thanks to that little spat and it looked like he had a bruise forming on his face.
07[03:46] <@Haruko> As Haruko watched from the sidelines, he felt helpless, frightened, and horrified. Masao could have been killed! Yet the glint from the pair of blades kept him frozen in his place, unwilling to rush in and risk the danger. "Are you okay!? What was that, I don't understand!" Haruko fumbled over his words, trying to force them all out in a hurry. "What were you doing?! He was just helping me!"
00[03:50] <@PS> Masao's look was heated and dark and for a moment it was turned on to Haruko but it quickly faded. "We do not associate with their kind. " Masao said simply and he returned the knife to it's proper hiding spot. "Now what's all this? You say you were robbed? It's a shame I didn't catch him this time." Masao said glancing off in the direction Haruko's little helper left in.
[03:54] <@Haruko> "Catch..." Haruko trailed, before realization struck. "Catch him?!You think he took my money?!" The boy shook his head. "He was the only one in town who was willing to help me!"
00[03:55] <@PS> "That was a thief Haruko...." Masao stated. "He;s no good." Masao added seemingly quite sure of hismself. He hoisted Haruko up and set him on Kuro's saddle.
07[03:58] <@Haruko> "... but..." Haruko replied, with a frown. "Shouldn't we go after him? If he's got my- I mean, Zetsumie's money?" and all of a sudden, he seemed to remember the implications of losing so much money. "Masao, what am I going to do? That was so much! Zetsumie's going to disown me! he'll skin me and sell the hide to make just a fraction of that money back!" The boy dramatized. "What am I going
[03:58] <@Haruko> to do?!"
00[04:06] <@PS> "You're going to get your clothing... like we were sent to get." Masao explained. "Like you were supposse dto do." Masao stated. "Come on." he started to lead Kuro along.
07[04:11] <@Haruko> "But I don't have any money." Haruko frowned. "Aren't you worried? Zetsumie's already angry with me... What's to keep him from finding a student who can tell when he's been robbed?" And as they walked along, he asked, "... Aren't you getting on?" Being led that way felt oddly similar to Masao leading him by the hand... with less control on his part. u.u;
00[04:13] <@PS> "No I'm not.... I want you up there and protected..." masao didn't sound too pleased. "I have a bit left over we nee dto get you your stuff and get going." He said. "Have you found any place you wanted to go to just yet?" Masao asked.
[04:18] <@Haruko> "Not yet..." He confessed, "But honestly, I don't have anything to protect anymore. It's been taken away already, unless they want the shirt off my back." Haruko sounded sullen and unhappy. "Any old place will do. I don't think I enjoy this town at all. No one gives a care if someone lives or dies around here, so long as they're not bothered..."
00[04:21] <@PS> "haruko..." Masao calle dhis tone oddly taking on that of a warning sound. The ruffled up albino boy looked up at the redheadded youth. They drew and aweful lot of attnetion with their peculiar colors and teh large horse they had. Havinga a horse emant you had power it was a wounder why no one tried to take Kuro from them yet. It seemed most of the twons folk were familiar with Masao's appreance.
07[04:24] <@Haruko> "Masao." He returned, curtly, folding his arms over his chest. His mind didn't wander to how much the two of them stuck out, like a pair of sore thumbs. Only on the mess he'd gotten himself into, and how hard it would be to get out of it. And how silly and stupid he felt trying to make nice with the person who helped land him directly into the middle of that trouble. And how he stood there
[04:24] <@Haruko> and watched him run away.

00[23:56] <PS> 00[04:13] <@PS> "No I'm not.... I want you up there and protected..." masao didn't sound too pleased. "I have a bit left over we nee dto get you your stuff and get going." He said. "Have you found any place you wanted to go to just yet?" Masao asked.
00[23:56] <PS> [04:18] <@Haruko> "Not yet..." He confessed, "But honestly, I don't have anything to protect anymore. It's been taken away already, unless they want the shirt off my back." Haruko sounded sullen and unhappy. "Any old place will do. I don't think I enjoy this town at all. No one gives a care if someone lives or dies around here, so long as they're not bothered..."
00[23:56] <PS> 00[04:21] <@PS> "haruko..." Masao calle dhis tone oddly taking on that of a warning sound. The ruffled up albino boy looked up at the redheadded youth. They drew and aweful lot of attnetion with their peculiar colors and teh large horse they had. Havinga a horse emant you had power it was a wounder why no one tried to take Kuro from them yet. It seemed most of the twons folk were familiar with Masao's appreance.
00[23:56] <PS> 07[04:24] <@Haruko> "Masao." He returned, curtly, folding his arms over his chest. His mind didn't wander to how much the two of them stuck out, like a pair of sore thumbs. Only on the mess he'd gotten himself into, and how hard it would be to get out of it. And how silly and stupid he felt trying to make nice with the person who helped land him directly into the middle of that trouble. And how he stood there
00[23:56] <PS> [04:24] <@Haruko> and watched him run away.
Session Time: Wed Nov 16 00:00:00 2033
00[00:11] <PS> Masao for the most part was steaming beneath his color as he led Kuro through the crowd. He could hear the whispers of others talking about the two of them. His face was flushed but he wore an angry expression. Silently he bit hi lower lip as he tried to think about what was perhaps the best thing to do. He glanced back over his shoulder at Haruko. He felt his heart fall seeing the youth's expression and he turned away quickly . To Haruko the sudden movement may have seemed like Masao couldn't stand to look at him for the time being but the truth was he couldn't bare it just knowing what perhaps Zetsumie might do to him should he find out. Haruko stopped out side a rather nice looking shop and he swallowed hard feeling his mouth having gone dry. "Haruko... Don't worry about anything.... Just keep quiet about what happened... alright?" He asked as he moved to tie Kuro off. "Come on let's get you something to wear... then we are going home. " Masao said gently, his voice sounding softer and less stern.
[00:19] <Haruko> Haruko's shoulders shrugged up a bit, meekly, at Masao's sudden move. He hadn't meant to offend him, or push him away... He was just frustrated. Haru felt like perhaps he should apologize for snapping at Masao, but preffered silence for a moment, instead. "But... But isn't that the same as lying? Zetsumie will ask for his money when we return... How will I explain it?" Haru frowned, looking
[00:19] <Haruko> defeated. But at least Masao didn't seem to be angry with him. And this time, he actually waited to be helped down,instead of simply jumping off.
00[00:25] <PS> Masao paused realizing Haruko needed help. He hung his head so the snowy bangs veiled his eyes. Masao stepped over to Haruko and reached up helping him off the large horse. "I'll talk to Zetsumie about it... okay? Don't worry..." Masao offered gently and took Haruko's hand in his before leading him in to the shop. "Go on... I have enough to cover our expenses get what you want." Masao said gently.
[00:31] <Haruko> Haruko's expression dampened, as he caught sight of Masao's hanging head, and he wondered just what the older boy was planning. Adn as he was pulled into the shop, he whispered, "I can't help but worry, when you're worried..." Certain that Masao didn't want the shop owner knowing their business. And it was true. If there was one trait Haruko both wished he could change, and was glad he
[00:31] <Haruko> couldn't, it was his sense of empathy. All the same, he took a slow stroll around the shop, looking here and there... and settled on an exotic looking, but subtly classy outfit, made of green hues, that he thought looked natural, and blended nicely with the outdoors.
00[00:34] <PS> Masao patted Haruko on the shoulder and he offered a smile. "I'm not worried little Haruko. " Masao purred softly. He followed Haruko about and looked over the garments he seemed to be taking interest in. "Those would look lovely on you Haruko." He purred gently. "Is tehre anything els eyou may want as well? " Masao asked softly.
[00:38] <Haruko> "You seem like you're headed to an execution... not toward home." Haruko corrected. "... but do you really think so?" He asked, holding the garment to the front of his body. "... Shoes would be nice. I don't want to borrow someone else's every time we have to go somewhere." Especially some that were so impoartant, he added in his head. Fortunately for him, a pair of green slippers were nestled
[00:38] <Haruko> below the outfit in a nicely trimmed box. "These. If it's alright." Haruko looked brightened, though not quite his usual carefree self just yet.
00[01:24] <PS> "Try them on and see if they'll fit." Masao coaxed gently. He shifte dtrhough a few otehr items and pulle dout soem darker blue and violet colored garments. "I think these would look nice on you too." Masao offered gently. They were a bit simpler but they still looked ratehr nice and fit in with teh style of teh green ones Haruko plucked up.
[01:28] <Haruko> Haruko slipped his feet out of the wooden sandals and into the soft slippers, the fabric feeling luxurious against his skin. They must have been lined with a fine fabric. Silk, perhaps. "They do look nice. But considering..." Haru let his voice trail a moment. "Can we really get them?"
00[01:32] <PS> "Yes." Masao purred softly. "We can." He assured. Masao had allready taken in to account just what they'd cost too.
[01:35] <Haruko> Haruko smiled a bit at that, glad to have things that were his own again. It seemed like it had been a long time since whatever he had used or worn or eaten hadn't belonged to someone else. It was almost enough to push away the gloomy little cloud that had hung over him since he'd discovered nothing but strings around his wrist. "Thanks" He said, carrying his things toward the merchant, who
[01:35] <Haruko> had been watching them eagerly.
00[02:18] <PS> Masao sighed softly as he looked about with curiosity following Haruko to teh counter. He narrowed his eyes on a small bird whistle. "I'd liek one of those too please..." He said gently and the merchants eeme dto fetch it down off teh shelf for him. It was a painted nighting gale. Masao pulle dout a back from his gi top and paide the man before escorting Haruko on out. He packed their thinsg in to one of the saddle bags and handed teh whistle to Haruko before picking him up and placing him on teh hores's back. "Next time you're in trouble you blow that as loud as you can... you got that?" Masao asked.
[02:25] <Haruko> Haruko looked curiously at the little bird whistle. "... Do you like birds, Masao?" He asked, conversationally, as they walked out of the shop. "It's very pretty." And was surprised to see it placed into his own hand instead. Quickly followed by Masao hoisting him up onto Kuro's back himself. He was beginning to feel just a little indulged again, and it made him feel equal parts embarrassed,
[02:25] <Haruko> frustrated, and oddly enough... grateful, and taken care of. It was an odd mix, to be certain. He nodded, of course, but added in, "I don't plan on there being a next time. You don't have to worry about me. I don't make the same mistake twice, if I can help it."
00[02:47] <PS> Well then..." Masao hopped up and moved to sit behind Haruko and he wrapped his arms around teh younger. "You said that little thief helped you? " Masao asked curious to hear out Haruko's side of teh tale now.
[02:55] <Haruko> Haruko nodded, turning the whistle over in his hands, and examining it. "Yes. I was shopping, and I looked down, and most of the pouch was just gone... And nobody- not one person in this whole place was willing to help me! So I tried to find you, and I couldn't, and I just got..." He paused to think of a word that wasn't 'upset'. "Frustrated. And he was the only one who would help me find
[02:55] <Haruko> you. And when we got to you, you attacked him, I didn't know what was happening!" Haruko explained, with animated hand movements. "I've never met a theif before, I didn't know what one would look like!"
00[03:00] <PS> "Most of the pouch?" Masao asked softly. He sighed shaking his head. "A Thief can look like any one Haruko." Masao explained. "I've encounted /that one/ quiet a few times... I'd guess he's the one who took your pouch." Masao added in with a sort of disgruntled tone.
[03:04] <Haruko> "There was only the strings left..." Haruko admitted, keeping his eyes focused on the whistle. It was a good distraction for the moment. He felt beyond silly at just how easily he'd been had. "... You mean you don't know that he took it for sure?" Haru asked, looking over his shoulder. "Because he was awfully nice..."
00[03:07] <PS> "I didn't see it on him but I saw you with him.... and I honestly wasn't with you when it was taken." Masao said. "But I've had problems with /him/ before."
[03:10] <Haruko> "What kinds of problems?" Haru asked, "Has he taken something from you before?" He hoped it wasn't anything like what was taken today. u.u; Poor Masao would be hung out to dry for sure.
00[03:10] <PS> "Yes he has.
00[03:11] <PS> " Masao started gently. "And he's stolen from Kodora and Zetsumie befor etoo... one time it didn't go over too well for him. "
[03:14] <Haruko> Those two names certainly got Haruko's attention quickly, and he all but gaped back at Masao in disbelief. "... Really?! he's that good?!" the boy all but squeaked. "To get Zetsumie!?" He couldn't even imagine it. "What happened? They can't have caught him! He looked pretty alive to me." o_o;
00[03:17] <PS> "Well that one time Zetsumie snatche dhim up right quick and he pulled out of his jacket but Zetsumie was wise to that trick that time and so he snatched him up by a wrist and twiste dhis arm behind his back." Masao started to explain as he recalled the event. "Kodora didn'tw ant Zetsumie to hurt him so they only roughed him up a bit. He's taken stuff from us with out them noticing before."
[03:22] <Haruko> Haruko listened on the edge of his seat, with the sort of attentiveness many an adult or elder kid in the past would have killed for, when teaching him. "Wow, I can't believe someone would have the courage to try to steal from those two. That kid didn't know what he was getting into." The redhead shook his head in disbelief. "And I can't believe he's still stealing after that. I'd have been
[03:22] <Haruko> scared straight."
00[03:25] <PS> "He hasn't taken from us since the time he's been caught." Masao offered. "Why was he helping you?" Masao asked woundering why some one like /that/ would try to help Haruko.
[03:26] <Haruko> "Because I asked him to." Haruko replied, very simply. "I couldn't find you anywhere, and the crowd was too thick, and too tall for me to look over."
00[03:27] <PS> Masao blinked... "So you've been talking to strangers then?" He asked witha frown.
[03:29] <Haruko> If Haruko had been a puppy, his ears would have been flat just then. "... Not for no reason. I really did need help, and I couldn't find you! I've never been to a place like this before."
[03:29] <Haruko> he replied, defensively*
00[03:30] <PS> "You little brat..." Masao huffed. "You're not suppossed to talk to strangers that's have bad stuff happens!" Masao huffed.
[03:32] <Haruko> Haruko stiffened up with frustration, shaking his head. "That's not fair! Bad stuff happened before I talked to any strangers and I was minding my own business!" he huffed right back. "Besides! How's somebody supposed to be a warrior when you're too chicken to even talk to anybody?!"
00[03:35] <PS> "You're not a warrior Haruko." Masao stated rather sternly. "You're a child." Masao corrected. "And you were a lost child and you were un armed scared and overwhelmed in a strange new enviornmeant. This is why I shouldn't have left you alone." Masao said gruffly.
[03:39] <Haruko> "But I'm going to-" Haruko began to argue, before taking in that tone, and biting his tongue. And by the end of that statement, he was blushing, glaring, and downright indignant. "Stop saying that!" he shouted, likely attracting all sorts of attention. "You're not that much older than me, Masao! You don't get to talk like you're an old man already! You were punished just yesterday, if you
[03:39] <Haruko> recall!"
00[03:44] <PS> Masao pulled the reigns on Kuro bringing the horse to a hault. He tied the reings on to the saddle and dismounted. He looked a bit flushed in the face and appread indignat. "Go home Haruko." He stated as he started to walk the other way. As if to emphasize his order he gave Kuro's hind quarter a sharp swat and the Horse juolted off right away at a galop .
[03:52] <Haruko> Haruko regretted his words, as Masao got down off the horse, though he didn't admit it. He was still feeling aggrivated about the whole thing. But at those words, he felt his stomach drop, suddenly and violently. "... But..." Haru began to protest, that he didn't know his way home by himself! And, since he had no experience riding on his own, he had to hold on tightly with both hands, to keep
[03:52] <Haruko> from falling off right away. It didn't take long for panic to set in, realizing that he couldn't steer the animal at all, and that no one would know where to find him when it finally stopped. So, with no other option that he could see, Haruko turned to sit side-saddle... And lept off the tall animal, as it galloped, only to land in a small heap on the ground, wincing.
00[03:57] <PS> Masao was making his way back towards town. He planned on doing some rounds and perhaps looking to see if he could find any one using that bag. He'd started asking around to teh shop keepers too. Maybe Haruko just dropped it or some thing. Kuro on the only hand galloped quickly back towards the home.
[04:04] <Haruko> Haruko frowned, pushing himself up off the ground with the intent to dust himself off. But, when he tried to rise to his feet, his left ankle screamed out in pain, and he quickly turned to sit on his backside instead. He was panting with pain, and disbelief at just how much that had hurt... Looking down at the sore appendage, he found his ankle reddened, and swelling up a bit. It had a small
[04:04] <Haruko> purplish splotch where it had landed wrong, as well. Biting his lower lip, Haruko looked from one side to the other, for anyone about, and began to worry for an entirely new reason. If Masao thought it was dangerous to talk to strangers, Haruko wanted to know how he felt when there weren't any about in a time of need. u.u;
00[04:21] <PS> Masao spent his tiem slowly letting the hours drift by untill the sun starte dto set. Kodora was the one whom foudn Kuro returning home with no children on and quickly mounted before starting towards town.
[04:28] <Haruko> In the meantime, Haruko had pulled himself upto a nearby fence, and used it as leverage to begin walking. Where to, he didn't know. As silly and stupid as it was, he felt betrayed and angry with Masao for how he acted, and wasn't about to head back toward town and beg for help. His ankle would feel better soon. He'd had little bumps and bruises before, and they'd always gotten better within
[04:28] <Haruko> a day or two. Though... they'd never felt quite so painful. u.u; Soon enough, he found out precisely what that fence was there for, as an elderly man tending to his feild of vegetables waved to him, and trotted over, concern crossing his features. A short conversation later, Haruko had explained that he was far from home, and had fallen and hurt himself, and the man was soon helping him
[04:28] <Haruko> shuffle inside for a cup of tea. He'd insisted that 'no, no, it was the least he could do.' and that 'someone would give him a good turn later on, for his karma now.'



---------- Post added at 12:49 PM ---------- Previous post was at 12:46 PM ----------

00[04:33] <PS> Kodora made hsi way in to town and soon found a Masao with out any Haruko. One little conversation later Kodora was not too pleased to have foudn Kuro all by himself. Masao was shocked and stunen dat first hearing Kuro was alone His heart sank and skipped afew beats it seemed. "It's all over... He's agonna killll meeeee..." Masao swallowed. "A-are you sure he wasn't home? D:" He asked feeling sick ontop of how tiered he'd been from walking the streets.
[04:37] <Haruko> Haruko, on the other hand, was feeling surprisingly comfortable in that moment. As it turned out, the old man had an equally kind wife, who had fawned over him, tutting in sympathy over his ankle, and pushing rice crackers and sweetened tea his way, and telling stories about how their son had gotten into shinanigans that way some time ago.
00[04:47] <PS> Masao and Kodora searched and searched. It seemed as if every step Masao took was a nouther step deeper in to his grave. He lost Haruko... he LOST Haruko! I was his job to protect him. And who knew where teh poor boy might have been! He could have been kids napped! Or torn to pieces by a bear! Or ravages by wolves!Kodora sighed and put Masao on the horse. "You better get home... I'll stay out and keep looking you nee dto tell Zetsumie what's happened here." Kodora said to Masao. Masao's eyes were sore and glossy and he meekly nodded before starting hime. It was only mere momments from now that he'd hea dhome. He didn't know what to say or what to do... He couldn't say he lost Haruko could he? Zetsumie trusted him with the younger! Masao not only behave irresponcibly not once but twice that day. And his foolishness seemed to have cost him anouther's life. What would Zetsumie say? What would the elders say!? He shook in place as heated streams of salty water slipped from his eyes and rolled down his cheeks. He thought about running away ... it was a thought that crossed his mind sevral times and tormented him.
[04:54] <Haruko> After a bit of comfortable conversation, the woman asked just how Haruko had come to such a fate... And he had no choice but to confess that he and a friend had a falling out, and they'd stormed away from one another. The pair looked at each other with a fond grin and shook their heads, as if they'd heard such a story at least a dozen times before. They'd given him a short, and kindly lecture
[04:54] <Haruko> about how one should always consider another's long-standing actions over short, heated words. And he'd agreed. And, armed with a crutch-shaped branch, carefully chopped down to his height, he waved the pair goodbye, thanking them, and set out to find Masao in the market. It was already dark... What if he'd already gone home? Standing before the empty, dim, and lonely streets, where the crowds
[04:54] <Haruko> had been so thick that day, Haruko felt his heart sink, and a shiver run down his body.
00[04:56] <PS> By the time Haruko came out to town Kodora was allready on his way back to the compound. Poor Haruko was all alone as teh shop keeps closed up shop. All the lights were going out one by one as well.
[05:04] <Haruko> As the last light went out, Haruko felt a sudden, and uncomfortably familiar loneliness he thought he would never see again. That he hadn't felt since the day Zetsumie had taken him away and brought him to a new home. He was all on his own, with nothing, and no one to help him. In vain, he continued through the market place, hoping to find Masao, still looking for him, and deep down, knowing
[05:04] <Haruko> that he wouldn't be there... At the opposite end of the town, finding nothing, Haruko couldn't help himself. It began with a small hitch in his chest. And before he knew it, warm, damp trails were spilling down his cheeks as he leaned against a tall oak tree at the edge of town, sunk down to sit, and buried his face in his folded arms, trying to think of what he could do.
00[05:06] <PS> It wasn't very long untill something bopped Haruko on the head- then a few more small somethings. They were acornes. _ . from an oak tree?
[05:07] <Haruko> "wha..." Haruko looked up, swiping a sleeve over his eyes, so that he could see clearly, before rubbing the top of his head where they had landed.
00[05:17] <PS> a small cloaked figure looked down on Haruko. "Why are you crying?" He asked gently. He was leaned against the tree leg swinging gently.
[05:21] <Haruko> Haruko's eyes widened a moment, and he blinked as fast as he could, clearing away the dampness that lingered there, rubbing his face with his sleeve. "I'm not! I just... I got sweaty... It's been a long day." His words trailed, as Haruko wondered why he was even bothering to lie. He was hopeless right now, and he knew it. "... My friend is gone. He's gone, and I don't know my way back..." He
[05:21] <Haruko> said so forlornly, as he looked down again, wrapping his arms around his knees. "And I don't know what to do by myself..."
00[05:22] <PS> "Why don't you go home?" He asked as he staretd down and landed next to Haruko. "You do have a home don't you?"
[05:26] <Haruko> Haruko shook his head. "I have one... That is, I hope I still have one after all this." He sighed. "But I don't know my way. I've only come here recently, and I don't know my way back yet. I've only ever made this one trip." He reached down and toyed with the strap of his sandal idly. "And I don't know a soul in this town, aside from you."
00[05:26] <PS> He nodded gently.... "Mmmmay be I can help you find your way back? whitch way did you come from?" He asked gently.
[05:28] <Haruko> "I doubt you could find your way back there..." Haruko said, before shutting his lips tightly, and cursing himself for likely saying too much. "I mean... it's very far. And I don't think you could find it without knowing where it is." and after a moment, he asked gently. "... Where do you live?"
00[05:31] <PS> "where ever I please. that's where I live!" He said moving to help Haruko and slung his arm around his own shoulders to help him. "Come now I'm sure witha little help we can find your home together.' He said. "now just think really hard. Okay?"
[05:34] <Haruko> Haruko was hesitant. He wasn't supposed to lead anyone back to their village, was he? Especially not a theif... "I.... I'm not sure. Maybe I should stay where I am. Someone will come and find me soon... I hope." And with a sigh, and a slight pause, a thought occured to him. "You know... This is the second time today you've offered to help me, and I don't even know your name. It's really
[05:34] <Haruko> selfish of me, huh?" He asked, with a small, sad smile.
00[05:40] <PS> "Well that's allright- I bet your family is worried about you..." He offered. " Funny that isn't it- I don't even really know your name either." He offered. "Come now don't you think we should get going soon as possible if you do live far from here I doubt your familyw ill come at this hour. "
[05:45] <Haruko> "It's Haruko.... But I guess you don't have to tell me yours if you don't want to." The boy shrugged. "I know one person will be worried... but it doesn't change the fact that... well," u.u; Haruko sighed, rubbing his lightly swollen ankle. " I don't think I could walk that far anyhow." With a shiver, he looked up at the night sky. "I hope it's not that cold out. My master won't be very happy
[05:45] <Haruko> if I come home crippled and sick..."
00[05:46] <PS> "Well then I'll carry you. He move dto kneel down on one knee infront of Haruko. "Come on I'll help get you home. "
[05:50] <Haruko> Haruko shook his head, waving his hands dismissively in front of himself as well. "No, no, you don't understand, I-I can't-" He struggled with the words. "I... I can't bring anyone to my home. Even someone as kind as you are." And in that moment, he was seriously regretting having to follow those guidelines, as it would make his life alot easier to talk about where he was from! ><; "You said
[05:50] <Haruko> you lived wherever you pleased... could that place be nearby? And warm?"
00[06:05] <PS> "Oh come on... I'll just take you home- there really isn't any need for you to invite me in. " He coaxed.
[06:07] <Haruko> Haruko frowned at this, starting to feel a bit ill at ease. "N.... no, it's alright. I suppose it wouldn't hurt me to stay here. You don't have to have me over. I was only joking anyhow." he offered a small smile, just dripping with conceiled unhappiness. "They'll be back for me soon. I'm sorry for taking up your time." There was one thing about Haruko that couldn't be doubted. He was undeniably
[06:07] <Haruko> loyal, even in the worst situations.
00[06:10] <PS> "Come on Haruko I cant stand to see you out here crying in teh dark like this.... The temperatures dropping you might not survive teh night if you stay here."
[06:16] <Haruko> That word of caution made Haruko gulp nervously, knowing it could be quite true. And for a moment, his resolve waned. He wanted very much to give in... but leading a known criminal to their village would look badly on him, and zetsumie by extension. His mind paused on Zetsumie... would he be worried? Would he be upset? ... Would he be angry? With Masao? a fresh chill went up is spine. "isnt
[06:16] <Haruko> there any place I could go for the night?" At the moment, he'd take a pile of straw, over being out in the open like this. u.u;
00[06:18] <PS> "Not around here you can't." He assured the worst to teh poor lad. "Come on I'll carry you on my back and I'll get you home in no time."
[06:21] <Haruko> Haruko, defeated, saw no other way around it. He could die, or he could lead this stranger home. "... It's toward the other end of town." He pointed the way out, and wrapped hsi arms around the other boy's shoulders, hoping he wasn't too heavy. u.u; "and through some woods..." He didn't sound terribly certain.
00[06:22] <PS> Soon Haruko was picked up with relitiev ease and tehy started that way Once he arrievd at teh edge of teh woods he anarrowed hsi eyes at the narrow path and starte dthat way. "This way right?"
[06:24] <Haruko> Haruko glanced ahead of them. Everything looked so different at night. He hoped he wouldn't get them lost. "I... think so. And there was a clearing full of bolders to sit on..." He explained, trying to remember the way they'd come.
00[06:26] <PS> He nodded softly and headded that way. A short whiel later they reached justthe area. "Is this it?"
[06:30] <Haruko> "Yeah! This is where I almost left my money behind, right on that bolder!" He pointed to the very place, excitedly. They were on their way. "And we came from.... a beach?" Haruko explained, sounding less and less confident by the second. After that, they would meet the stone labyrinth, and he didn't know his way at all...
00[06:38] <PS> It wasn't too long untill they came to the very front of the stone maze This is where Haruko was set down. "My name's Chunoryu." He offered. "I hope you cane mak eit teh rest of teh way form here. He pulled his muffler up over hsi face and burrie din to the warmth- a stark contrast from teh cold.
[06:40] <Haruko> Haruko stood with only a slight wince, leaned forward, and wrapped his arms around the boy who had been such a help, despite the nearly dozens of times he had refused it, out of fear. "Thank you, Chunoryu... Genuinely." He said, before releasing him. "I'll pay you back someday." And with a warm smile, he started along his way, hoping that his memory would serve him correctly.
00[06:44] <PS> The dark little Chutatsu nodded softly. "Good luck I hope you get home soon." he nodded and darted off back towards the direction of town.
02[07:29] * Haruko ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout)

Session Start: Wed Nov 16 13:42:35 2033
Session Ident: #At_Night
03[13:42] * Now talking in #At_Night
03[15:03] * Haruko ([email protected]) has joined #At_Night
03[19:54] * PS sets mode: +o Haruko
00[19:55] <@PS> [06:30] <Haruko> "Yeah! This is where I almost left my money behind, right on that bolder!" He pointed to the very place, excitedly. They were on their way. "And we came from.... a beach?" Haruko explained, sounding less and less confident by the second. After that, they would meet the stone labyrinth, and he didn't know his way at all...
00[19:55] <@PS> 00[06:38] <PS> It wasn't too long untill they came to the very front of the stone maze This is where Haruko was set down. "My name's Chunoryu." He offered. "I hope you cane mak eit teh rest of teh way form here. He pulled his muffler up over hsi face and burrie din to the warmth- a stark contrast from teh cold.
00[19:55] <@PS> [06:40] <Haruko> Haruko stood with only a slight wince, leaned forward, and wrapped his arms around the boy who had been such a help, despite the nearly dozens of times he had refused it, out of fear. "Thank you, Chunoryu... Genuinely." He said, before releasing him. "I'll pay you back someday." And with a warm smile, he started along his way, hoping that his memory would serve him correctly.
00[19:55] <@PS> 00[06:44] <PS> The dark little Chutatsu nodded softly. "Good luck I hope you get home soon." he nodded and darted off back towards the direction of town.
00[19:55] <@PS> 02[07:29] * Haruko ([email protected]) Quit (Ping timeout)
[19:55] <@Haruko> Haruko took in a deep breath, and began what he was sure was going to be a long, hard journey through the labyrinth, on one good ankle, though the other was feeling a bit better, after that ride all the way home. If only he'd known how well the place was guarded, his worry would have eased... and he wouldn't have brought Chatatsu so close. All the same, he started inside, and took an immediate
[19:55] <@Haruko> left. He remembered they'd turned out of the place, not come straight on to the exit. It was a 50/50 chance he was headed in the right direction...
00[20:06] <@PS> Fortunately for young Masao- Just before he could speak with Zetsumie He heard some one else talking to the man in his room. Masao pressed himself against the wall and winced hearing the bits spoken. Apparently Haruko was out side in the Labyrinth. Zetsumie opened the door that lead out side and Masao stepped back with a small jump of fright. A steely eyed look from the elder and Masao swelled watching him move past and trotted slowly after following suit. Masao's heart was eased only mildly hearing of Haruko's safe return but it was only darkened over when he heard they caught some one whom Haruko lead home. He looked up from the ground he walked towards Zetsumie. How could explain to the man he owed his life to that all this trouble was because of himself? hung his head and remained silent for now. It didn't take them long to find Hruko. "Haruko." Came Zetsumie's voice in a tone the poor boy had the pleasure of avoiding even heard until now. It was stern and precise and held a slight under tone of anger to it. Almost like some one calling to a disobedient dog whom was tearing up a pair of shoes unbeknownst to their master's presence. Masao cringed at such a full voice in that tone which commanded only the utmost of respect.
[20:16] <@Haruko> Haruko had begun to smile, first hearing, and then seeing Zetsumie and Masao coming toward him. Such a wave of relief washed over him that this whole mess was finally over... But all that warmth made it all the more shocking, when his blood ran suddenly cold at that tone. He'd shrunk back immediately, taking a step backward, a fearful look crossing his features. 'Of course!' he told himself
[20:16] <@Haruko> inwardly, 'of course Zetsumie was angry with him. He'd lost all that money, and then gotten himself lost too. He'd probably wasted Masao's time looking for him.' And a rather chilling idea flashed past his minds eye... What if he wasn't supposed to come back?
00[20:35] <@PS> Zetsumie started over and Masao staid right where he was. Haruko was picked up with ease and placed right iver Zetsumie's shoulder. A sharp swat landed on the small up turned bottom. "You have a lot of explaining to do little one." Zetsumie said simply. "He looked at Masao and narrowed his eyes. "And that goes for you as well." Zetsumie said and he carried Haruko off. soon haruko would realize theyw ere going up stairs. Little ones weren't allowed up stairs.
[20:39] <@Haruko> Haruko braced himself as Zetsumie started over, not sure what to expect. Nothing pleasant, at the very least. Though his expectant wince disolved as he felt himself placed over a familiar, broad shoulder. His feet kicked up, and he squeaked, before he even registered that his backside had been swatted. "I know, I'm sorry! I didn't mean to lose it, it just happened!" Haruko began to explain.
[20:39] <@Haruko> "I've never met a theif before!" And noticed they were headed upward... Curiously, he looked to Masao silently, his expression waiting for an answer.
00[20:42] <@PS> Masao waved his hands at haruko but it was too late he was allready spewing information. Zetsumie paused hearing that... He continued on only after a brief mommenta nd walked down sevral long hallways before coming to a door. He opened it and walked down some stairs to a dark room with high up windows He set the boy down on his feet and looked at him. "What exactly did you loose?"
[20:48] <@Haruko> Haruko looked at Masao with such confusion clear on his face, as he stopped talking, and bit his lower lip instead. Was he not supposed to talk about it? Was Masao hoping Zetsumie would forget? How could he, with such a huge amount of money? That was what this was all about, after all! Haruko was left to fret in silence a short time, until he was set on his feet, eyes already looking glossy,
[20:48] <@Haruko> fingers locked together in front of him, as he examined his feet, carefully putting more weight on one that the other. "Your money..." he squeaked out, in a crackling, sad little voice. "I lost it in the market. Someone took it from me, and I didn't even notice..." Haruko sounded particularly ashamed of that fact.
00[20:50] <@PS> Zetsumie sighed gently. "And what happened to your foot?" He asked moving to fetch a chair and place it down for Haruko to take a seat.
[20:54] <@Haruko> "My ankle...." Haruko corrected, obviously surprised that he wasn't being scolded at the very least in that moment. At the very worst... he couldn't even imagine. Taking his seat, he sat up straight, and didn't let himself slouch like he felt like doing. It had been a long, long day. "I... Well, I jumped off of Kuro, and I didn't land so well..." He admitted, with a wince.
00[20:55] <@PS> Zetsumie looked at Haruko and set his hands on the boys shoulders leaning forwards. "And why did you jump off of Kuro?"
[20:58] <@Haruko> Haruko glanced toward Masao, and back at his ankle, not certain he should say precisely why. But, with Zetsumie looking right at him, he felt there was very little he could do otherwise. "He was running, and I couldn't stop him. I was afraid of getting lost." And though he knew that it wouldn't happen, he prayed the line of questioning would end.
00[20:59] <@PS> "Why did you wnat to get off?" Zetsumie asked trying to keep his patience.
[21:02] <@Haruko> "Because, I couldn't steer him by myself..." Haruko barely whispered, eyes trained on his knees in the chair, his bangs hanging in front of his face. He didn't want to look at Masao, and he certainly didn't want the other boy to look at him. It felt like he was tattling, though he didn't really have any other choice.
00[21:03] <@PS> "Haruko..." Zetsumie started as if warning the boy that he wanted a real explination.
[21:08] <@Haruko> Haruko started to feel that like a slimy slug there, tattling on the person who'd been so nice to him, up until that day. The elderly couple's words rang in his ears, about how one shouldn't take stock in short bursts of anger, and remember the past actions most of all. "I was rude to Masao, so... So we went separate ways. And I got scared on Kuro, and jumped off... And that's it. I got lost
[21:08] <@Haruko> without him, and came back by myself." He was careful not to mention that Masao had sent the beast on his gallop, of course. "Well... with my friend's help. But he's gone now..." By that time, his head simply hung, not wanting to meet anyone's eyes.
00[21:13] <@PS> "You mean the person whom you lead to our home? Haruko this is a seceret place." Zetsumie started. Masao gluped as Zetsumie turne don to him. "And what about you?" He asked. Masao winced AND SHIVERED. "I-it's all my fault... I left Haruko alone and he lots your pouch.... I sent him home on Kuro and went to look for it incase Haruko might have droppe dit... I'm so sorry Master I was behaving foolishly. I didn't mean for Haruko-kun to get hurt. Iaccept the responsibility- you trusted me to take care of him and I faile dyou..." Masao 's eyes were glassy abnd his voice was but a whisper riddled with a shivering quiver. Zetsumie turne don to Haruko. "Haruko, go to bed. I'll deal with you later." Zetsumie said moving to open the door. "Masao yu walk him down there and I want you back here. Understood?" Zetsumie asked and Masao nodded meekly. "Y-yes sir. "
[21:20] <@Haruko> Haruko winced at Zetsumie's words, knowing they were very true. And he'd intended to keep his head down, and keep quiet, until he heard Zetsumie asking Masao to come up again. At which point his head shot up, and he shook it vigorously. "No... No it's not all your fault! I said I'd be okay by myself! And I didn't have to be rude to you before, either!" Turning to Zetsumie, he spoke with the
[21:20] <@Haruko> boldness he couldn't manage to on his own behalf. "Please don't be angry with Masao, it isn't fair! He tried his best... Please don't..." He didn't quite know what to ask his master not to do, so he left it at that. "I'm not a baby. I did those things on my own, and it's my own fault."
00[21:29] <@PS> "I'm ratehr disapointed in the two of you... You both chose poorly today. Haruko you are injured and you need your rest little one. "Zetsumie added. "Masao and I need to have a discustion and you nee dto learn to do as you are told. " Zetsumie stated narrowing his eyes.
[21:35] <@Haruko> And with that, Haruko's bravado fled, as he slid off of his seat, and made his way toward the door with a slight limp, echoing Masao's words. "Yes Sir..."
00[21:36] <@PS> Masao scooped Haruko up like a young blushing bride and started off. "I'm sorry Haruko... I'm sorry you got hurt... I don't think Nekura would treat a sprain though...." he offered quietly as he carried him off.
[21:42] <@Haruko> Haruko blushed right on cue, as he was scooped up, and shook his head. "I wouldn't want to bother him with it. It'll be better soon." And as they walked, it was silent for a moment... until Haruko couldn't take it anymore. "... I'm sorry you're getting into trouble. I wish I hadn't said that stuff. u///u I didn't mean it. You're very grown up." It certainly had shown upstairs, when he took
[21:42] <@Haruko> responsibility that way. "Everybody can see it."
00[21:47] <@PS> "And what makes you think you aren't in trouble too? Hmmm?" Masao asked softly... "They caught the thief..." Masao added in. "I know not what will happen with him... I could have sworn I heard that they were thinking of taking him to /that/ building." Masao started down the stairs carefully. "I really hope they don't hurt him." Masao offered gently. "I'm sorry Haruko I should have been more attentive to you... you're still very young and you really haven't learned that much about our world."
[21:52] <@Haruko> Haruko shook his hiead. "I know I'm in trouble. I'm dead meat. The difference is, I earned it..." His heart sank when Masao mentioned the theif. "But.. but he was just helping me! I wouldn't have made it home without him! He carried me all the way on his own back!" Haruko squeaked out indignantly. "They can't hurt him, he saved me! Masao, you have to tell Zetsumie what he did for me! M-Maybe
[21:52] <@Haruko> he can stop them!" Again, Haruko shook his head, "No, I should have listened! I thought because you're young too, I didn't have to respect you, but I should. And I'm sorry."
00[21:55] <@PS> "Well... in the least you've learned a lesson this day." Masao stated gently. He carried the little one to Zetsumie's room and set him on the bed. "and to think-Zetsumie hasn't kicke dyou out of his room yet- he still likes you very much." Masao offered and looked to the forbidden building. "Hes not that old so I dont know what the clan will do to him. I f no one wnats him it cant be any good. "
[21:59] <@Haruko> "... yet?" Haruko's brow furrowed in confusion, and a bit of concern. Was it inevitable that he would be kicked out? Was he gaining special favors again, without ever knowing it? "I hope he still likes me after all this." He mumbled, as he pulled back the covers, and wrapped his body in them. Haruko hadn't realized just how cold he had been until then. "can't they just let him go? he didn't
[21:59] <@Haruko> even want to come in, they made him!" Haruko said in a slight growl "He would have been out of their hair! You can't do this to someone for helping! W-We're supposed to be the good guys!"
00[22:03] <@PS> Masao sighed heavily. "Worry about yourself." He said and set Haruko down on the bed. Get washed up and changed... Master dosen't like it when you are dirty." Masao explained and looke dto the wall and sigehd, He went to fech the fan in hopes of tugging at Zetsumie's heart strings for a lesser punishmeant. "You should rest Haruko- you're going to need it." And with that Masao left.
[22:08] <@Haruko> Haruko frowned in the silence that remained in the room... "What's that supposed to mean?" He mused outloud, even the tiny voice he'd asked it in seemed loud by comparison, in the quiet, small space. and, as he was told to, Haruko washed his hands and face, before changing his clothes, and crawling into bed. His mind swirled with worries, and at first, he had a hard time getting his eyes to
[22:08] <@Haruko> stay closed. But with the excitement of the day, it wasn't too long before his body gave in, and he fell into a heavy sleep.
00[22:16] <@PS> It wasn't untill much later that a heavy weight was pressed down in to the bed beside Haruko nothing else was really moved nor did any one try to wake him this night.
[22:17] <@Haruko> Though Haruko's mind hadn't roused, all the same, he turned into that weight, and pressed his body against it, wrapping his slender arms around it as well, before settling into stillness again, and relaxed, even breathing.
00[22:23] <@PS> Should Haruko wake up next morning he would find himself all cuddled up to a Masao. The two of them were what was left in teh bed when Zetsumie got up to attend to things.
[22:26] <@Haruko> Since Haruko had fallen asleep first, of course he roused very early, wrapping his arms tighter around the body beside him. But something felt... off. Blinking his eyes open in surprise, he was met with the sight of the slender albino youth, instead of his usual, masciline and sturdy companion. Immediately, he loosened his grip, for fear of waking him. o////o and goodness... he was awfully
[22:26] <@Haruko> close.
00[22:31] <@PS> Masao simply shifted slightly in his sleep and nuzzled up to the pillow he was in. Only faint sounds came from him. It seemed like Haruko was left with Masao this morning. Seeing as no one came to interupt their sleep theyw ere being allowed to sleep in.
[22:37] <@Haruko> For a moment, Haruko only observed, looking at the way the morning light spilled in and shone off of those snowy locks. The way masao's skin seemed to glow in the low light, his pink lips contrasting, and complimenting all at once... and how lovely the relaxed expression on his face was. He must have been the sort of person that a painter would love to capture in a portrait. The sort of person
[22:37] <@Haruko> you don't think really could exist somewhere... The world was a funny place, that for all his beautiful features, Masao was teased above all, instead of admired. It said something about people's insides. something not so nice. For such an early morning, Haruko's mind was thoughtfully active.
00[23:10] <@PS> After sevral long momments Kodora stepped in to the room carrying a wooden crate full of items. "Goodmorning Haru-kun." Came the bright cheery voice. "How are you feeling?" He asked gently.
03[23:11] * PS is now known as Tempo
[23:16] <@Haruko> a faintly rosy blush had appeared on Haruko's cheeks in that time, admiring Masao in that way... Though he didn't know why, exactly. He was only looking. "Oh! Good morning!" He sat up, and pulled his hair to one side, brushing through it with his fingers. "Fine, thank you... I'm sorry if anyone worried yesterday." he added, after a moment.
00[23:19] <@Tempo> "You caused quite a stir around here belive it or not." Kodora pulled a chir to sit beside the bed. "let me see what ankle hurts little one." He said as he picked up a bowl wsh cloth and some bandages.
[23:21] <@Haruko> Haruko moved carefully, trying his best not to wake up Masao, if their voices hadn't already done it. "I didn't mean to. I would have loved to come home on time." And as if right on cue, he took in a few short puffs of air, and sneezed into his hands. "... It would've been alot warmer." ^^; He held out his injured ankle, which looked signifigantly less swollen, and mostly a bit bruised on
[23:21] <@Haruko> the edges. It didn't hurt much either, though he hadn't tried to stand on it yet.
03[23:22] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
00[23:26] <@Tempo> The Payne's gray haired man nodded softly He plucked up a different towel and set that in Haruko's hands. He pulled the boy over and set the heel of the injured side on his knee. Kodora dipped the wash cloth in to the hot steaming water and rang it out before gently cleaning off his ankle. the heat must of felt wonderful to Haruko. for a little bit he repeated his actions at times pausing to repress down and let the heat be absorbed. He then wrapped Haruko's ankle. "You'll be able to walk again in no time." Kodora assured. "Would you like for some breakfast yet or would you like to snuggle up to your friend there and rest some more?" Kodora asked softly.
[23:34] <@Haruko> Haruko blinked down at the towel in his hands, before realizing what it was for, and wiped them off onto it. He winced just a little, as his heel was set down, though as the steaming cloth lay over his skin, he sighed the same sort of blissful sigh one gave after a long day of work, sinking into a steaming hot bath. Soon enough, his ankle was feeling like the most relaxed spot on his body,
[23:34] <@Haruko> despite what it had been through. "I can walk now, only... kind of slow." ^^; Haruko laughed lightly. And though he'd have liked to crawl back into bed, if only to be close to the person he'd surely wronged, his stomach protested that he hadn't fed it since the previous morning. "Breakfast would be wonderful." he confessed.
00[23:39] <@Tempo> "Well hop along." Kodora started. "Raene's making you two a nice hot breakfast today so you won't go hungery... I'll go check on our new guest and see if he's changed his mind just yet." Kodora gathered his things and left the two inpeace once again.
[23:42] <@Haruko> Haruko wanted to inquire just what was in store for his friend, though it wasn't as easy to demand information of Kodora, as it was Zetsumie... So instead, he turned to Masao, pulled the covers up higher over his body, and turned out of the room, slightly limping toward the kitchen, and Raene's meal. Maybe he could even help.
00[23:56] <@Tempo> Raene was not the one who came to the room. It was Zetsumie. "And jsut where do you think you're going?" He asked and shooed Haruko back in to the room. He had a tray in hand and set it down on the low table that Zetsumie seemed to prefer Haruko sat at to eat. He set out the various components of the breakfast meal and went to the closet puling out a rather feminine pink Yukata. It was dreadfully girly and quiet obviously mean for some one just about Haruko's size. He set that out and fetched some socks and some rather nice red bottomed geta sandals with bells on the bottom between the wooden blocks.
Session Time: Sun Nov 17 00:00:00 2013
[00:04] <@Haruko> Haruko hurried back inside quickly. "I was going to the kitchen. I thought I could bring back my own food, and not be a bother..." He admitted,as he took a seat at the table. What Zetsumie was doing hadn't caught his eye, with him so hungry and all... until a flash of pink appeared, and he just about gaped at the feminine garment, shaking his head back and fourth. It had seemed like some time
[00:04] <@Haruko> since the day they had met, but the treatment was fresh in his memory, and he wasn't eager to repeat it. "Master..." he let out a pleading little whimper, hoping for some sort of mercy. u///u
00[00:05] <@Tempo> "Yes little one?" Zetsumie asked in a soft, loving, tone.
[00:08] <@Haruko> That tone made a little lump of guilt settle itself somewhere in his chest, and made it hard to push out the words. "... I don't like it..." He stated the obvious in a meek tone.
00[00:10] <@Tempo> "Aweee.... that's a pitty to hear- raene worked very hard making you such a lovely breakfast..." Zetsumie purred in a soft tone. He fetched out a parasol as well. It would work like a cane for the little one. Zetsumie buissied himself with a basket setting all sorts of items in to it.
[00:20] <@Haruko> "N-not the breakfast!" Haruko shook his head, blushing all the more, pointing to the yukata and parasol. "That! Pink... it's not a flattering color on some people." He said, "Particularly males..." there was a sulk in his voice already, and he was participating in one of his very favorite things lately. Eating Raene's delicious food.
00[00:21] <@Tempo> Zetsumie walked over and stroked some of those long red locks and pulle dthem between his fingersand held them up to Haruko's eyes tos ee. "You've got lovely colorations for the color. It'll look very nice on you..."Exspecially with those eyes you have and such a nice shade of skin. "
[00:25] <@Haruko> "I... politely disagree." Haruko chose his words very carefully, though a strong part of him wanted to please Zetsumie either way. Even though he no longer seemed to be angry. "I like blue or green best... And flowers are... w-well they're more suited to a feminine figure." He explained, trying to remain calm, as he scooped breakfast carefully into his mouth. "On me, they'll be .... Wasted,
[00:25] <@Haruko> I think. U-Unappreciated."
00[00:33] <@Tempo> "Obviously you never stood infront of a mirror." Zetsumie said stepping back. "You have wounderful curve and you hips would look nice in such an attier." Zetsumie said. He walked over to Masaoa nd slapped the boy on his tush. Masao yelped and his hand cam back and he squirme diwth a small whine.... "W-what was that foooor?" He asked grogily looking to Zetsumie. Zetsumie said gently. "Do you think pick would look nice on Haruko?" He asked Masao nodded hsi head gently with a yawna . "Yes he's got very nice features for the color." He yawned and burred his face under a pillow.
[00:36] <@Haruko> Haruko's blush deepened at those words, and he couldn't help squirming in his seat, wishing the silly garment would go back into the closet and stay there. And though he felt sorry for Masao, truly sorry... he couldn't help but hide a laugh at the way he'd woken up. It just looked so... undignified, in a boy who always seemed to be exactly that. Though his amused look quickly turned to a
[00:36] <@Haruko> sulky, mutinous glare, as Masao agreed with Zetsumie. Silence seemed his best option, as he turned away from the pair, and focused on finishing his breakfast instead. >///<
00[01:04] <@Tempo> Zetsumie gathered everything and set it in the basket. He stood there wiating patiently for Haruko to eat his meal. It seemed he had and odd sort of smirk on his face.
[01:07] <@Haruko> Haruko ate what he could, as slowly as he could manage, without being obvious... but soon enough, the time came to where he was full, and he simply couldn't stand to be looked at any longer with that smirk! With Masao in the room, no less! >///<; Finally, he set his chopsticks down, and rose from the table, holding out hsi hands for the garments. Clearly, he wanted to change elsewhere.
00[01:08] <@Tempo> "Come on Haruko." Zetsumie sai dnot handing him a thing. "Let's go to the bath house and get you washed up." Zetsumie purred.
[01:10] <@Haruko> Haruko nodded, following behind, and he couldn't help but feel in disgrace already. u///u hopefully he'd risen late enough in the day that the bath house was empty. "... I'm sorry I lost your money." He offered, knowing the apology wouldn't make any difference at that point. "I know it must have been hard earned." u///u
00[01:12] <@Tempo> "Don't worry Haruko you'll earn it back." Zetsumie purre dknowing full well Haruko wouldn't beable to pay that off in four years.
[01:13] <@Haruko> Haruko gulped, afraid that would be the answer. "... I've never seen that much money before. I dunno how I'll ever earn something like that back for you, aside from selling me again." He frowned, clearly down in the dumps about the whole experience, or he wouldn't have even joked about such a possibility.
00[01:20] <@Tempo> "Silly Haruko you would only fetch Four Ryo at most and that's if the buyer had the idea to sell your body manny a time." Zetsumie explained simply. "Nothing near sixteen ryo." He nodded. Zetsumie lead Haruko in to the steamy bath house. There were older students in tehre relaxing after having attended to most of their requiermeants for the day.
[01:23] <@Haruko> Haruko blushed all the more at that explaination of his worth, enough that his face felt hot to the touch. He was not nearly used to hearing anyone talk that way, let alone about him! It effectively shut his mouth, for the time being, as they entered the bath house, finding it mercilessly occupied. u///u
00[01:27] <@Tempo> Zetsumie lead Haruko over to the wash area and set out a bench and a stool. admittedly seeing some one Zetsumie's size sit on a wash Stoll was a humor thought. He helped Haruko undress and carefully set his bandaging aside with the basket in a safe area. A bucket of warm water was then dumped on to Haruko and Zetsumie seated the boy on the small bathing stool before he started to scrub him down being methodical and slow as he went taking care.
03[01:27] * Tempo is now known as Zetsumie
[01:31] <@Haruko> Haruko was predictably shy about losing his clothing, even in a place where many people were currently without any covering at all, and quickly sat down, in order to sheild some of his body from onlookers. "I can- You don't have to-" Haruko began to protest, each time realizing more and more that Zetsumie had no intention of letting him do it himself. Soon enough, he was quiet, and still,
[01:31] <@Haruko> and blushing all the way to the tips of his ears. Luckily, his hair made a nice curtain around his face, and down his back.
00[01:38] <@Zetsumie> Haruko had ever inch of him cleaned Zetsumie wasn't giving the poor boy any ley way even with more private areas. He washed hsi hair and once all was said and done a few more buckets of warm water were pooored on to him beofre Zetsumie starte dto towle dry in him ofrubbing vigorously over the wet skin and hair. seeing as teh enetered around teh time otehrs were finishing up fewer and fewer folks wer ein the bath house when Zetsumie pulled Haruko close it was but the two of them. "Now then sweetling I think you and I need to have a little talk." he purred.
[01:46] <@Haruko> Haruko had intended to behave himself through the ordeal, but he quickly lost his resolve as his more personal areas weren't spared from the intimate ritual. He squirmed away, and flustered, and finally settled for covering up his face with both hands, quite thoroughly subdued by the end of it. Perhaps moreso than any spanking could ever manage. Haruko was certain his face would never return
[01:46] <@Haruko> to a normal color for all his life. He was relieved to be dried, and clung to the towel, hoping to wrap it around his body. And as he was pulled in close, the redheaded youth seemed to perfect an immitation of a rabbit staring up at a hungry looking wolf, wide eyed, and thoroughly intimidated.
00[01:50] <@Zetsumie> Zetsumie pet Haruko's head gently. "Now then swett heart- why don't you tell me every thing you did wrong yesterday and exactly why it was wrong?" He asked picking up a wooden bath brush.
[01:55] <@Haruko> Haruko's hands went slowly to cover his backside, as he bit his lower lip, thinking. "I... should have payed attention to what I was doing in the market place. Because the money I had wasn't mine to lose." He began, "And I should have been kind to Masao, because he's kind to me... and he doesn't deserve to be teased. And if I'd been kind to him, we wouldn't have split up, because he wouldn't
[01:55] <@Haruko> have been angry with me..." Haruko attempted to take a step back, away from Zetsumie, and that brush... "And if we hadn't split up, I wouldn't have been sent off on Kuro... and I wouldn't have jumped off and hurt myself... It was because I was being mean, and teasing Masao about being punished." He admitted, thinking that this was perhaps poetic justice. Though he really didn't look forward
[01:55] <@Haruko> to it. u///u
00[02:07] <@Zetsumie> "And you brought some one home with you."Zetsumie added. "Five things you did wrong yesterday little one. " Zetsumie said omving to stand he caught Haruko and turned him around Five sharp swats with that loooong brush landed on the pert still slightly wet rear. The poor boy. Zetsumie set the brush aside and pulled Haruko closer by teh towle that was wrapped aorund him. He finished rying the boy off and pulle dhim even closer as Zetsumie took a seat. He pulled th pink yukata on around Haruko's shoulders and started fastening it in to place. My my my it certainly was short. should he even think about bending even a little he'd be showing off.
[02:22] <@Haruko> Haruko wanted to defend the action, but knew it wouldn't do him any good. He knew he wasn't meant to bring strangers home. And all too soon, he found himself under the brush's smacks. Luckily for hiim, no one seemed to be around, as he squealed, wailed, and hopped in place, arching his back to try and keep it away from the brush and making a fair spectacle of himself. He hadn't even had time
[02:22] <@Haruko> to think before it was over, and it was only then that he shuddered in a breath, and let out a dramatic sob, that seemed to have been building in hsi chest during those five smacks, two little droplets falling down his cheeks, and plopping to the floor. honestly, he looked a bit more offended, sulky, and surprised than hurt. It was just so sudden! And as the Yukata came around him, he found
[02:22] <@Haruko> himself tugging at it's length, with a little whine. "Master... it's indecent!" he squeaked out quietly, knowing much better than to argue with any vigor.
00[02:30] <@Zetsumie> Zetsumie chuckled hearing the boy speak. "Only if you make it so... keep your posture." He said simply and then he bandaged Haruko's ankle once more Next he pulled the pouty brat to sit in his broad lap and started to comb out and then brush his hair till it was dry and silky smooth. Zetsumie pulled the long locks back in to a low pony tail and fassoned a ribbon in to Haruko's hair.Next came teh thigh high socks and the geta with bells. the chimed nicely and c ertainlyw ould draw any ones attention to the queer sound. Zetsumie picked Haruko up at the hips and stood him on his feet handing him teh parasol to use as a cane and keep weight off his hurt side. "There now.... don't you look just precious?"
[02:43] <@Haruko> "But... but I'll have to bend sometime!" Haruko protested, already smoothing a hand over his backside, to keep the frilled edge in place. he'd barely noticed any discomfort in his ankle, far too focused on his current wardrobe. All the same, he couldn't deny that it made him a little happy to sit in Zetsumie's lap, and have his hair brushed. It made him feel wanted, and attended to... Though
[02:43] <@Haruko> at the feeling of that bow being tied in his hair, it became bittersweet. And once again, Haruko seemed to never run out of blood to rush to his face, as he was dressed fully, silky feeling fabric over his legs, making them look long and feminine, along with even more outragious footware. Finally the parasol, he leaned on a bit, as he stood, gently tugging at the edges of his yukata, and
[02:43] <@Haruko> fidgeting, feeling like a grand display.
00[02:46] <@Zetsumie> "Quit tugging on the edges you'll ruin them." Zetsumie said softly. "Come along little one I think It's time you and I took a little walk trhough the woods with Raene." Zetsumie purred softly.
[02:50] <@Haruko> Haruko let go as soon as he was told to, and twiddled his fingers anxiously, eventually clasping them in front of himself, and holding the parasol between them. "... Could I... maybe take a walk with you another time? I'm not feeling my best..." the blushing, meekened boy asked, not even looking Zetsumie in the eye.
03[02:54] * Haruko is now known as Haruko
00[02:55] <@Zetsumie> "I think now's the best time... I do have to work after all considering what you lost little one." Zetsumie said offering his hand to the boy.
[02:58] <@Haruko> Haruko felt a little shame wash over him, at that reminder, and gently lowered his hand into Zetsumie's. It seemed small by comparison, and much softer, as well. He hadn't earned any callouses yet, and his palms seemed as fine as any lady that would adorn such an outfit.
00[03:01] <@Zetsumie> "So Haruko... trouble aside how do you like your new home?" Zetsumie asked leading teh boy out in to the sunshin taking him down steps and on to a garden path. Certainly any one who passed them by or looked thier way or came in to ear shot of those bells offered Haruko a glance.
[03:07] <@Haruko> Haruko winced a bit, as the little bells tinkled with each step, making him seem more akin to some sort of wood nymph than a boy, frolicking about like a playful doe. He tried to step delicately, to quiet them, at least a little. "I love it, when there isn't any trouble to be had." Haruko admitted, suddenly wishing his hair hadn't been pulled back, and he could hide from those glances. Instead,
[03:07] <@Haruko> he found himself moving closer and closer to Zetsumie's side, as if he were some sort of shield. "It feels like a place where everyone genuinely cares about one another. And it seems a rarity sometimes." He thought back on the town the day before.
00[03:11] <@Zetsumie> "Ah I see... poor child." Zetsumie welcomed the close ness by putting an arm around Haruko. He caresse dteh soft cheek of his face and settle dhis hand on the boy's shoulder. "Now if you little 'friend' would give in then you might get to see him soon... however it seems that it's proving difficult.... he has however impressed our clan leader."Zetsumie offered.
[03:17] <@Haruko> Haruko soaked in that display of affection, trying to drown out the rest of the world, as he strolled with Zetsumie, instead of using the parasol as a walking stick, he braved the injury, and opened it, sheilding himself further from prying eyes. Stubbornness seemed to win out over the ache in his ankle for the time being. "... Chutatsu. That's his name." He offered. "I wonder if there's
[03:17] <@Haruko> anything I could do to help."
00[03:21] <@Zetsumie> "perhaps... Kodora has taken an interest in him. We've allready compiled all the information on him and I must say there isn't really that much." Zetsumie added. He smield seeing Raene just up ahaead."Perhaps later on tonight I'll take you to see him...Or at least talk to him I don't think you should see him persay."
[03:24] <@Haruko> "... But why not? He's my friend, after all. He took me all the way home on his back, for no gain to himself. He's a good person, I promise!" Haruko insisted. "Why shouldn't I want to see him?" Seeing Raene up ahead, Haruko couldn't help but hide his face against Zetsumie's upper arm. Somehow, the familiarity made it all the worse to be seen that way. If only he knew Raene wasn't seeing
[03:24] <@Haruko> anything.
00[03:32] <@Zetsumie> Zetsumie sighed. "Because he needs to come to terms with his perdicameant first..." Zetsumie explained. Raene smiled hearing the others. "Hello." Raene called softly. "Ready to go?" Zetsumie asked. Raene awnsered iwth a simple nod. "Hello Haruko... do you have bells on today?"
[03:34] <@Haruko> "Maybe I could help him with that... I only got here recently too." Haruko tried to argue, without seeming impertinent. "It couldn't hurt to try." And seeing Raene close up, Haruko could only mumble his greeting, and nod at the question, answering with a sullen-sounding, "Yes. Though I'd rather not..."

[LeeXIII]

Omg i cant read this. Lol