A Taste Of Freedom

Part 12

They had just reached the center square, appearing to be an area for a small gathering, when he heard the howls. He quickly turned around to face the direction they were coming from, narrowing his eyes, groaning softly under his breath in frustration. Dogs? No wonder they were able to keep up with them; he absolutely hated being pursued by dogs. Shizu didn't have to tell him twice that they were in grave danger and needed to find a safe place and gave a nod when she mentioned they needed to find a safe place for now. He wouldn't disagree that those howls sounded unnatural, almost demonic, and he sure as hell did not want to find out just what could utter such a howl. Certainly not any dog or wolf could sound just as fierce, could it? He was not in the mood to find out, and made no hesitation following Shizu into the old shrine.

It was a musty place full of dust and cobweb, appearing to have been neglected for some kind yet it still remained intact. There was an inscription on the altar, but he couldn't read Japanese well enough to make out what it said. In fact he couldn't read or speak that much Japanese at all. That aside, he didn't know much about old Japanese traditions but he had to assume this was not a ritual shrine, but something a little more clam; perhaps protection? Shizu did say this was not someplace where those canines would find them. Of course this also could be wishful thinking, and due to ignorance he disregarded the shrine's purpose and focused more on what was currently going on. The more he thought about those canines the more it sent shivers down his spine; he found it odd since he was someone who hardly showed falter or fear of any kind.

"I suppose we do have a fairly long trip ahead of us," he replied softly, keeping his voice down. Though Shizu had said the hounds may not tread here, she was still extremely wary. He didn't want to admit it, but he did need some rest. He hasn't slept in about a day or so, two counting tonight, and knew he needed to be well rested for the trip back to the city. However, sleep was not an option right now; he was too on edge to even attempt. If he had something to drink -namely alcohol- he would easily be able to relax and get some sleep. So for now he would simply think of this as a moment to clear his mind. He paced the small area inside the shrine a bit in a restless manner before taking sitting down near Shizu. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes for a moment, but still felt restless. Being someone who suffered from insomnia and just being overall nervous sometimes did nothing to help his situation.

They would have to get going as soon as those hounds left. He had wanted to rest at this village, but not like this. It wasn't the first time he felt like a fugitive though, but he was not going to think about himself, Shizu was more important now.

Let's just say that he know very well what it's like to stick to old customs. He didn't like change very much, it was just how he was brought up; he hardly uses technology save for electricity and of course his cell phone among other things. Those were essential to this modern world and unless you live in the mountains, or an old village in the forest like Shizu had, they had to be accepted. She seemed to be handling herself well, but could tell by the look on her face that still she had so many questions. In that case he would keep his word and explain everything a little at a time. And then another idea hit him.

He looked over to her once again, "What do these writing say, if I may ask?" He questioned, nodding towards the old inscriptions that were engraved around the old altar. It was just something to change the subject, and, well, maybe he'll learn something. They certainly had him curious being someone who likes those kinds of things.