The Renegade: Oblivion

Ch. 3: A New Affection

The sun was setting as they reached the outskirts of the great city, Jiang-lao. It was situated in a small valley, surrounded by foothills. To the north lay the mountains and to the south was where the valley flattened out and became the plains. A refreshing warm wind blew from the west where the sea laid, thousands of miles out of sight. The capital and the greatest city of all the provinces of Nideryn, Kanghung, was between the distance from Jiang-lao to the sea.

Jiang-lao laid out over the expanse of the valley, and a thick forest laid behind where the palace of Isu was. It was at the highest point in the city, and down from the hill it was on was the main city, bustling with people.

As the party traveled through the city, Aspect couldn't help but notice all the surprised glances he got from the townspeople, looking on at the mysterious warrior. Some were of awe, others of jealousy as they wondered who this imposing figure was, seated upon a horse as if triumphant from a deadly battle. Yet he felt that his quest had only just begun.

If I hadn't stayed out in the wilderness for so long, watching over the travelers, I wouldn't be noticed. All these people... it's a shame I couldn't have just been one of them, and lived a normal life. He shook his head slowly as the crowd cheered, finally recognizing the Black Warrior.

He dared to steal a glance at Kojo and was surprised to find a dismal expression on the Blacklai fox's blue face, but then dismissed it as jealousy. It was true that an important official had come to the city, but all the recognition he deserved had been given instead to an unexpected newcomer. Aspect couldn't help but feel equal parts embarrassed and smug at this revelation, yet he said nothing.

Finally they passed through the thick of it and began to travel up the hill, on a cobbled stone path lined with blossoming fruit trees. Not far off lay the Shogun's palace, but up ahead were some stables. Kojo hopped off his horse after a pause, and Aspect followed suit.

The Blacklai Fox turned to his escort, Todokii. "See those stables?" The official pointed to them. "Go tie up the horses, and then you may be freed from your duties."

Todokii bowed. "I am honored. Good tidings be with you!"

As he led the horses away, suddenly a shout came from farther up the stone path.

"Kojo!"

Aspect turned with Kojo and caught his breath. Running up to them was a beautiful Blacklai Fox, sleek and slender with light blue fur the color of fallen snow at midnight. The tips of her fur were darker, and her eyes sparkled like sapphires in the fading sunlight. She wore an elegant kimono, one with a floral cherry pattern that ran all the way down her sleeves.

The sight of the newcomer laid a tight hold on Aspect, and he felt warmth run from his snout all the way to his tail. His eyes widened but he said nothing as the Blacklai Fox greeted the official.

"I've missed you dearly," She trilled, embracing him in a warm greeting. "It's felt like a century's worth of moons have passed since I've come to see that cat."

"Lady Snowshoe, it's only been three moons," Kojo replied, stifling a laugh. "But it's good to see you, too."

"And who's this?" Snowshoe turned to look at Aspect curiously, and the Black Warrior jumped, shaken from his silent awe.

"Erm... I'm the Black Warrior." When Snowshoe stared at him expressionlessly, he quickly added, "And I make extraordinary cheese sandwiches."

The look she gave him wasn't what he had hoped for, and he berated himself silently as she just shrugged and turned back to Kojo. "Odd fellow he is," She remarked. "Any special reason for bringing him? Or did you just pick him up off the side of the road somewhere?"