The Color Of Fate

Chapter 1

I looked over at the field of flowers deep in thought. Shirayuki had left some time ago to search for more herbs to turn into medicine. She had said she'd return in a week's time. The travel was a few days ride and she would spend a day there until she came back.

I sighed, seeing the sun setting. I had asked her to let me have her escorted by one of the guard's but she politely refused. Stubborn girl. Since I was worried I sent Obi to watch after her.

"You know she wouldn't have objected if you had asked to accompany her." Mitsuhide said from behind.

"I have other duties to complete in the castle."

"Let kiki and me take care of it. You've finished the paper work for this week. It's a wonder what you get done when she isn't around."

I looked at him, "What will you tell Haruka?"

"That you and Obi went to take care of a bandit problem."

"He would wonder why you two weren't with me."

He thought about this for a second. "Yeah, I guess so huh."

"Then why don't we all go?" Kiki asked.

I stared out at the night sky. It wouldn't be possible. There was too much to do to go on a break for a week.

"I've readied the horses for you." A voice said.

"Haruka?" I asked.

"As much as I hate to say it, you should never let a lady travel unguarded. Especially her since she's close to you. They could use her against you and end up causing an uproar among the castle and the citizens of this country. Now hurry up before I change my mind."

I smiled and ran past him to the stables. "Lets go!"

Mitsuhide and Kiki laughed behind me. I stepped up into the saddle, grabbing the reins. "If we hurry we can make it to her before dawn."

"Then stop talking and go." Haruka slapped my horse and we took off. I pushed the horse to go as fast as it could, flying past the field of flowers and down the road towards where Shirayuki would be.

-Obi-

I sat on top of the wagon, tired from running behind them all day. Master really cares about her. I'm surprised he didn't come himself. I mean sure he has work to do, but she would have at least wanted him to come along.

I looked up at the now night sky. The stars shone brightly, lighting the sleeping earth. In this lighting I would be able to see anyone that wanted to interfere with the journey easily. It was one of my more favorable abilities.

The wagon came to a sudden stop. "We're resting here for the night!" I heard someone yell. I jumped off, running to the forest quickly. Good. Nobody noticed me. Shirayuki got off the wagon last, stretching her muscles. Then she looked over into the forest where I was and began walking over.

"Careful girl, there are bandits in these woods." The man who had drove said.

She nodded and continued walking into the forest. She was looking for new herbs, I guessed. I jumped up into a tree, following her. It wasn't that far, but it was far enough. I thought about pranking her, but my orders were to not get caught in her sight.

"Master, you're no fun." I said.

"Obi?" Shirayuki asked. Crap!

"Hey girl! You out here?!" A husky voice yelled. She glanced up at me. I put my finger to my lips and moved away from my spot. I would be sighted easily. I moved to where the guy would be directly under me. "Hey!"

"Yes?" She asked.

He laughed a small bit. "Nice hair you've got. Saw you and was curious. I must say I'm a bit surprised you don't have an escort. That must mean you're up for grabs."

He walked over to her, attempting to grab her. She moved out of the way.

"Keep your hands off of me!" She said, standing up to him. Man she was cool. He reached to grab her again, but i jumped down, tossing my knife at his head. It landed in a tree behind Shirayuki. The man jumped back, looking at where it had come from. I jumped down.

"I wouldn't touch her if I were you. Master would hate to hear it."

"Well then, guess I need some more help. Men?"

" Shirayuki! Go!" I yelled as more men stepped out. They blocked her way and I swiped at them with my dagger. I caught one's flesh and a line of red appeared. I saw the opening and grabbed Shirayuki's hand and began running. The men laughed.