Chapter 3

As they passed beneath the arch's gnarled roots, a whispered sigh stirred the air, carrying with it a warm zephyr imbued with the essence of a thousand blossoms. It danced playfully, caressing their senses and coaxing forth a symphony of fragrances that wove through the very fabric of their being. Akiza, caught in the delicate embrace of these scents, couldn't help but release a sudden sneeze, disrupting the tranquility with a gentle burst of laughter.

When Nanashi dared to open her eyes, she found herself transported from the sombre depths of the forest into a realm of pure enchantment. Colours burst forth like fireworks against a canvas of verdant splendour, each hue more vibrant and alive than anything she had ever seen. The emerald grass beneath her feet seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly glow, whispering secrets of ancient magic long forgotten.

As her gaze wandered, she beheld a scene straight from the wildest dreams of a visionary artist. Trees stood tall and proud, their branches reaching skyward in joyful abandon, adorned with blooms of every shade imaginable. Creatures of myth and legend emerged from the shadows, their forms illuminated by the soft radiance of the spirits that danced like ethereal fireflies in the air around them.

In this wondrous tapestry of existence, it was as if the very essence of creation had been laid bare before them. Each breath carried the promise of untold wonders, each heartbeat resonated with the rhythm of the universe itself. And as Nanashi gazed upon this spectacle, she knew with a certainty that here, in this magical realm, anything was possible.

They marched through the forest accompanying Sauske on his visits, meeting various spirts and yokai, from the kirin to the snow queen to the bone lady, of course Nanashi making mental note of all there encounters and places they can be found.

As they wandered from spirit to creature, time flew by, and it was time to take little Akiza home. She lay fast asleep on Nanashi's back.

"I guess it's time to take her home," Sasuke announced.

"I think so. The poor thing is fast asleep," Nanashi agreed.

"She was playing with any and every creature willing to put up with her."

Nanashi looked at Sasuke inquisitively. "I must ask, why did you bring her here and show her all these spirits and creatures? Isn't your golden rule to stay away from humans?"

"Well, yes, it is, but she's a child," Sasuke replied.

"So?"

Sasuke's eyes softened as he explained, "Children embody innocence in its purest form, a radiant beacon of unconditional love and boundless curiosity. They see the world through eyes untainted by cynicism, embracing not only who you are but also the very best within you. In their gaze, there exists a profound trust, a belief in the inherent goodness of all beings.

"It's a marvel to witness their unwavering acceptance, their hearts open wide to the wonders around them. They dance with joy in the company of spirits deemed mysterious or foreboding by others. Take, for instance, the lion dog, whose fierce exterior belies a heart brimming with loyalty and courage. Or the red water baby, whose playful antics bring laughter to even the darkest of days.

"In the eyes of these precious souls, there is no room for prejudice or fear. They see beyond the surface, delving deep into the essence of each being they encounter. To them, even the wildest temple priest is but a kindred spirit on the journey of life, worthy of love and understanding."

"Ha!" Nanashi interjected. "She even brought some happiness to that gloomy Satori. Let's be honest, that thing needs help."

"Nanashi!" Sasuke chided, then conceded, "But that's true. Anyway, she didn't show any disgust or fear as she played with them. If a grown-up had seen all this, all hell would break loose on this island. They'd probably hunt us down to extinction."

"You, of course, but not me," Nanashi boasted.

"Why is that?"

"You forget that I am the strongest yokai to set foot on this earth."

"Of course you are. How could I forget such an important fact?" Sasuke said sarcastically.

Nanashi's eyes flashed dangerously. "You're sarcastic now, but you'll see. You and the entire Zhou dynasty will fall beneath my feet!"

"Quiet!" Sasuke hissed. "Or you'll wake her. Nevertheless, we're here." He transformed himself into a human form. "Give her to me."

"Why?" Nanashi asked suspiciously.

"What do you mean 'why'? I have to take her home," Sasuke explained.

"Why does it always have to be you?" Nanashi challenged.

"Because your shifting ability is limited. You haven't obtained enough power to sustain a full transformation," Sasuke said with a smug look.

"Well, we won't be sitting there for three weeks, will we? I can manage two to three hours, and that's more than enough time to hand her over and leave. No social visit."

Sasuke could see this was a battle he wasn't going to win and eventually caved in. "Fine, fine."

"Great. I also want to have a word with this girl's mother."

"We're not going there to start arguments," Sasuke warned.

"Yes, now just be quiet and take the girl."

"Alright, and please transform into something appropriate."

"What are you looking for?" Nanashi asked.

"Temple maiden."

"Why?"

"Because I'm a priest."

"You, a priest that wanders around in the woods?"

"I'm a wandering priest, and you're the temple maiden who attends to the grounds I walk on."

"I must respect you very much," Nanashi said sarcastically.

"Indeed you do. You're one of those energetic, devoted temple maidens," Sasuke replied, embellishing the story.

"Must be hard being you," Nanashi said, rolling her eyes.

"You know, every great priest has to face trials by the Gods, but I must PREVAIL!" he shouted, pumping his fist in the air.

"Be quiet, or I'll smack some sense into you!" she said, raising her hand above his head.

"When did you change?"

"While you were busy giving a speech to the heavens. Now give her here; I want to hand her over today."

"Okay, here," Sasuke said, carefully transferring the sleeping Akiza.

Placing the child on her hip, Nanashi marched down the hill into the village and approached the first woman she saw, ready to hand over Akiza.

"Here you go, miss, and please never ever—"

"Ahem!" Sasuke cleared his throat loudly.

"What?"

"This isn't her mother."

"Oh. Then where is her mother?"

"Calm down first. The house we're looking for is at the end of the village."

"Then give her back. Goodness, why are you holding her like you know her?" Nanashi said, taking Akiza back.

"She does know her. This is her grandmother," Sasuke explained.

"You look pretty young. Well done," Nanashi said to the grandmother. "Let's go, it's getting late." She stormed off.

"You've got quite a fiery one there, Sasuke," the grandmother remarked.

"Indeed, indeed," he said, bowing before running after Nanashi, who was walking so fast that pebbles on the road were shooting off like bullets.

Nanashi's heart hammered against her ribs as she reached the familiar porch. A wave of exhaustion washed over her, quickly replaced by a surge of anger. With a trembling hand, she raised her fist, ready to knock forcefully. Just as her knuckles were about to meet the wood, the door creaked open, revealing a face etched with worry. But the moment Akiza's mother saw Nanashi, her eyes widened, a flicker of pure joy replacing the anxious lines.

"You finally came. Please, come in," she said warmheartedly.

Just as Nanashi was about to step into the house, Sasuke ran up behind her. She looked over her shoulder and muttered, "I think this one has a few screws loose.

"No, just listen to what she has to say," Sasuke said, gently guiding Nanashi inside.

"Please, have a seat," Suzane gestured. "Some tea? Let me take her. I hope she behaved well?"

Nanashi hesitated.

"What are you doing? Give the woman her child," Sasuke whispered sternly.

"I don't think I should. She doesn't seem stable," Nanashi muttered back.

"It's her child. Give her back."

Nanashi sighed heavily, then reluctantly handed the child over.

"I apologize for that. My temple maiden here has a bit of attachment anxiety, if you know what I mean," Sasuke said, smiling awkwardly at Suzane.

"No, it's fine. Akiza is a special child. Whoever meets her instantly falls in love with her," Suzane said, laying Akiza down on the bed.

"You're not normal, are you?" Nanashi asked bluntly.

"Do you have to be so rude?" Sasuke chided.

"No, it's alright, Sasuke. Oh, I haven't introduced myself. I'm Suzane."

"I don't recall asking for your name. Just answer my question," Nanashi pressed.

"Nanashi!" Sasuke said sternly.

"It's okay," Suzane assured them. "Yes, I'm normal. I'm human. It's just that I can see spirits. It's been a genetic trait in my family for a long time. I can see you for what you truly are—I mean, your spirit, not just your physical form." She poured the tea as she spoke.

"Do you mean to say that you know Sasuke and I aren't human beings, but demons?" Nanashi asked, intrigued.

"Yes."

"So, why not tell the rest of the villagers?"

"Then my mother, child, and I would be classified as freaks and cast out of the village. Besides, you've done nothing to harm us. Why make a mountain out of a molehill?"

"I like you, Suzane," Nanashi said, taking a sip of her tea.

"Me too," Suzane replied warmly.

"What about me?" Sasuke asked with a glimmer in his eyes.

"Of course, I like you too," Suzane added, though her tone was less enthusiastic.

"Ouch, that sounded forced," Sasuke remarked, feigning hurt.

"Shut up. I've been around longer than you," Sasuke snapped, a hint of amusement in his voice.

 "That doesn't mean she likes you," Nanashi retorted. "She just has to tolerate you. You're like an old piece of inherited furniture they have to keep around because it belonged to great-great-grandmother."

"Nanashi, would you like to take this outside?" Sasuke asked, cracking his neck.

"I would, but not just yet. Give me a little more time, then I'll take you up on that offer."

"So, when are you two going to get married?" Suzane asked innocently.

"Sasuke, please tell this woman to watch her mouth, or I'll punch her in the face," Nanashi growled.

"Um, Suzane, please don't make jokes like that. I don't like the taste of my own vomit," Sasuke replied awkwardly.

Suzune choked back a gasp, her eyes darting nervously towards Nanashi. The calming green of her companion's eyes had vanished, replaced by a chilling crimson glow that seemed to burn with an unnatural intensity. The air crackled with sudden tension, sending shivers down Suzune's spine. The transformation was swift and terrifying, a stark contrast to the Nanashi she had just met.

"More tea? This one is a little sweet," Suzane said, quickly getting up to pour Nanashi another cup.

"Tell me something, sister," Nanashi began.

"Sister? You just threatened to punch her in the face," Sasuke interjected.

Nanashi ignored him and continued, "Why did you leave your child with me, since you very well know what I am?"

"And what would that be, sister?" Suzane asked cautiously.

"An apex predator, a terror to men, a divine comedy connoisseur, torture expert, and the most feared and strongest yokai to ever exist."

"That's funny. That's not what your spirit reflects, nor does Akiza seem to notice. So I think this notion you have of yourself is not who you truly are, but what people have projected onto you," Suzane replied thoughtfully.

"Ah, no. Sasuke, would you listen to Lao Tzu here? You know what I just realized? I don't like you anymore," Nanashi snapped.

"Okay," Suzane replied plainly.

"I'm leaving now." Nanashi tossed the cup aside and walked out.

"A real firecracker you've got there, Sasuke," Suzane remarked.

"I know," Sasuke sighed. "Keeps my life interesting."

Walking through the village, Nanashi saw something peculiar, it was as if the village were preparing for some sort of welcoming or festival so she asked a man hanging up a banner of some sort at the village entrance.

'Hey, what are you doing?' she snapped, her blood still boiling from the incident prior.

"Evening, Miss, we are preparing a welcoming ceremony for the new high priestess and emperor, Himiko, but you should know, how is she?"

 'I do not know, have not had that yet, I mean have not had the chance to meant her yet, been traveling with the priest Sasuke.' she said, the borrowed skin itching against her fur.

The man turned and asked, "You know, Sasuke?" his eyes burning with a strange admiration and passion, adding more fuel to Nanashi fury.

"I wish, I did not, what makes him and that woman so great anyway?"

'Excuse me?'

"Yes, no, good bye!" she replied and quickly ran off, as she started to feel the transformation wearing off, just as she got out of site of the man hanging the drapes, she transformed back into a fox and headed straight to burrow, to get a little rest before her big hunt, proudly sponsored by Sasuke.

Nanashi emerged from her burrow, feeling refreshed and revitalized. A wide grin stretched across her face, the promise of a successful hunt warming her like the morning sun. With a few limbering stretches, she set off towards the majestic arched root tree, her heart light and anticipation bubbling within her.

When she arrived at the tree, she jumped to through the root but the frost still seemed the same.

"Maybe, I should close my eyes and walked through not jump, you silly girl, I guess I got a little excited for the feast that lies beyond." She said to herself, then closed her eyes and slowly walked through the arch and opened her eyes but still nothing.

Went back closed her eyes span around three times and went through again, she got the same result, maybe she should spin around nine times, since he has nine tails and that is exactly what she did but nothing, so the thought maybe this time she should closed her eyes, then spin around nine times, drop down to the ground and roll through the arch, so she did but even this bright and creative idea, seemed to be in vain and it also did not produce result which she had hoped for.

"Trying to reproduce the magic that Sasuke brings with his presence, are we?"

As a whisper slithered from the shadows, her senses tingled with alarm. With lightning reflexes, she sprang to her feet, every muscle tense and ready for action. Her fur bristled, a cascade of sparks igniting the darkness, revealing a figure cloaked in mystery.

With bared teeth and glowing eyes, she confronted the intruder, her primal instincts on high alert. The figure emerged from the shadows, a specter of age and weariness, leaning heavily on a gnarled walking stick. His form stooped with the weight of time, his features etched with the wisdom of ages past.

"Look here, old man. Leave me alone, or I'll be sending you to your grave a lot earlier than you expected," Nanashi growled.

The old man chuckled, then answered, "My, you youngsters are quite fiery these days. But can I really say you're a youngster? Who knows, you might be older than me." He winked at her, sending a cold chill down her spine and infuriating her even more.

"Wow, you surely must have been a hit amongst the ladies back in your day," Nanashi sneered. "But unfortunately, I won't be entertaining pervy old rats like yourself any longer. Either you're going to leave, or I'm going to rip you limb from limb." She took a few menacing steps forward.

"Now, now, let's not get ahead of ourselves," the old man said calmly. "To be honest, I highly doubt you could take me at your current level. So I suggest we resolve this peacefully."

"I don't want peace. I only want problems," Nanashi spat.

"I don't think you know who I am," the old man replied, his voice taking on a more serious tone. "I'm the man who taught Sasuke everything he knows, the previous guardian of this forest. Hajimo."

Nanashi's eyes gleamed with malice. "That means I'm in luck. An even bigger power boost for me."

"I'll devour your power, old man!" Nanashi snarled, her body coiling like a spring. But Hajimo remained unfazed, cool as a tempered blade.

Just as Nanashi pounced, Hajimo tapped his gnarled walking stick against the earth. In an instant, twisted roots exploded from the ground, snaring Nanashi's legs in their vice-like grip and pinning her to the forest floor.

Though bound and restrained, Nanashi refused to yield. With a furious snarl, she shifted back into her human form, her muscles tensing with raw power. She raised her hands, ready to unleash a torrent of lightning upon her adversary. Yet, to her horror, no crackling energy answered her call, no sparks danced at her fingertips.

As she attempted to channel the power, a chilling emptiness washed over her. Her magic, once a vibrant torrent, was a stagnant pond, refusing to yield even a spark. Panic clawed at her throat, a chilling realization settling in her core, she was powerless.

"Missing something?" Hajimo asked.

"My lightning attack, why does it not work? Am I broken?" Nanashi replied, frustration evident in her voice.

"Ah, it seems that despite all the time you've spent with the current guardian, you haven't learned what makes him so special compared to the rest," Hajimo mused.

"What, that he's annoying, too trusting, and somewhat idiotically naive? A man-child, narcissistic, an airhead with a lack of self-control and an inability to make friends? Or perhaps it's the fact that he doesn't respect others' privacy or sleep, which further contributes to his social ineptitude?"

"Uhm, no. Wow, he does need help, but that's not my problem," Hajimo chuckled. "The special thing I was referring to is his ability to nullify anyone's technique or power. It's what binds everyone together in this forest."

Nanashi scoffed. "Interesting fact. Did you think I was wasting my time idly playing with my toes while gallivanting through China and India? No, no, no. I was far too preoccupied with matters of consequence, absorbing knowledge like a parched desert drinks in rain."

As she spoke, she elegantly stretched out her arm, effortlessly breaching the very fabric of time and space. With a flourish, she summoned forth the illustrious Urumi, known to some as the Indian whip sword, its every movement a symphony of crackling power.

"Allow me to enlighten you, old man, on the art of sophistication and dominance. For in this elegant dance of steel, I hold the reins of power, and you? You're merely a spectator to my grand performance."

"Intriguing," Hajimo remarked. "So, you can store objects outside the realm of time and space. Just who are you?"

"Your mother," Nanashi retorted with a smirk.

"Mama?" Hajimo replied in a childlike voice, feigning surprise.

"No," Nanashi said flatly, swinging the sword right at his face. The razor-sharp blade sang as it darted toward its target, yet Hajimo remained as calm as a cucumber, even resorting to putting his hands behind his back. The sword cut right through him as if he were a mirage. She struck again and again, her frustration growing with every ineffective strike.

"You're not the only one who can manipulate time and space," Hajimo said, casually dusting off his shoulder.

Nanashi's eyes narrowed. "We shall see."

Nanashi, a whirlwind of fury, launched another attack. The Urumi, a viper of steel, sang a deadly song as it lashed towards the old man's face. But in a heartbeat, the whip transformed. With a sickening snap, the gleaming metal dissolved into scales and fangs, a monstrous serpent replacing the weapon. Its emerald eyes locked onto the man's head, promising a venomous kiss.

Just as the fangs were about to sink in, the old man, serene amidst the chaos, flicked his wrist. His gnarled staff, seemingly innocuous moments ago, blurred into a whirlwind. The strike was impossibly fast, a whisper against the serpent's scales. Yet, with a sickening thud, the creature was sent flying. The air shimmered, and as the snake hit the ground, it morphed back into the Urumi, clattering at Nanashi's feet.

 "As I thought, you can allow ordinary objects to pass through you but not magical ones."

"Seems, like you got me all figured out, young lady."

Nanashi, stuck her hand back into the fabric of time and space and took out a Spartan shield.

"That will not work."

With a defiant gleam in her eye, she snarled, "We'll see," and hurled the Spartan shield through the air like a discus of pure energy. It sliced through Hajimo's body as if he were a mere illusion before embedding itself deep into the bark of a towering oak behind him. As Hajimo turned to trace the shield's trajectory.

"Like I side, it is…" 

 As he turned to gloat in Nanashi's face, he heard the shied drop to the ground, he span around to find that she had ricocheted off the tree trunk in an explosion of wooden shrapnel, her hair elegant long hair opening up like a chinse fan, glistening in the moon light, the razor-edged weapon raised high to cut Hajimo's head from his shoulders. Time seemed to crystallize as his eyes widened in shock at the immediacy of his demise. But in that infinite instant, instincts as old as the first dawning of magic guided his hands.

With a resounding clap that set the air aquiver, two colossal golden skeletons tore free of the earth itself. Bony fingers thicker than tree trunks snatched at Nanashi's limbs with terrifying speed, halting her decapitating strike a mere hair's breadth from its fatal conclusion. The skeletons' eye sockets blazed with eldritch fire as they wrestled the thrashing warrior's body into submission, her boots gouging deep furrows in the ground.

"A magic-cancelling jade sword? I didn't know you had such weapons in your repertoire," Hajimo remarked, impressed.

"What can I say? I'm full of surprises," Nanashi replied with a triumphant smile.

Hajimo nodded thoughtfully. "Mhmm. Tell you what, what if I let you go, give your abilities back with a little extra, and you do me a small favor?"

Nanashi's interest was piqued. "Sounds intriguing. I'll take it."

"Good," Hajimo said.

The large golden skeletons unceremoniously dropped Nanashi on the floor like a bag of potatoes, causing her to belly flop hard on the ground.

"Ouch!" she cried out.

"Sorry," Hajimo winced. "I can't control them properly in my decaying state. Maybe you'll do a better job."

"What do you mean?" Nanashi asked, confusion evident in her voice.

Hajimo gave her a big smile and a thumbs up. "They're all yours now!"

"Really?" she exclaimed, jumping to her feet.

"Yep."

Nanashi's excitement faltered slightly. "Damn, just as I was about to attack you again."

"How unfortunate," Hajimo said dryly.

"So, what's this favor you need from me?" Nanashi inquired, her curiosity getting the better of her.

"I need you to protect the villagers from a threat that's coming in a few days' time."

Nanashi frowned. "Why don't you just ask Sasuke? He is the guardian of the forest, after all."

"Yes, the guardian of the forest, not the people," Hajimo explained. "As guardians, we must never interfere with human matters, but I've grown to love these people."

"Or maybe you've grown to love someone in particular?" Nanashi prodded.

Hajimo's expression softened. "Yes, maybe I have. But that was a long time ago, and I promised this person that I would always be there for her and her family."

Nanashi sighed dramatically. "This sounds kind of like a drag, and I don't have time to waste on petty issues like love. I have a dynasty to conquer and people to torture."

Undeterred, the old man walked over to her and placed his hand on her head, transferring half of his power to her.

"If you do this little favor for me, I'll give you the rest of the power I have and tell you where to find all twelve elemental kitsune. Trust me, you're going to need a lot more than this to defeat her," Hajimo offered.

Nanashi's eyes glinted with mischief. "How about you give me everything now, then I kill everyone and destroy the village? That way, you'll be with all of them in the spirit realm."

"No," Hajimo replied firmly.

"Come on!" she shouted, crossing her arms and puffing up her cheeks in frustration.

Hajimo chuckled. "So old, yet still such a child. Same time, same place tomorrow?"

"Why not," Nanashi shrugged.

"Alright, and no telling Sasuke. Bye." With that, Hajimo was swept up in a whirlwind of leaves and disappeared.

"I wonder who this great threat is?" Nanashi grumbled as she headed home.

The following morning, the day started off as usual, with Suzune dropping off her only daughter at what might be considered the most dangerous babysitter that ever existed.

Akiza wiggled like a happy puppy, her excitement bubbling over like a fizzy drink. Nana awaited, and the promise of playtime turned the child into a tiny blur of bouncing energy. Suzune longed for a goodbye kiss, but Akiza was a hummingbird in motion, too excited to stay still.

Finally, Suzune caught a glimpse of that sweet, impatient face. She planted a soft kiss on Akiza's cheek and watched her daughter dash off with the joyous abandon of a tiny explorer heading for a new adventure. A smile bloomed on Suzune's face, warm and bright as the sunshine Akiza was racing towards.

As she watched her daughter disappear into the distance, Suzune couldn't help but feel a mixture of pride and concern. She knew Nana was powerful and capable, but the danger that always seemed to lurk around the corner in their world never failed to worry her. Still, seeing Akiza's unbridled joy and enthusiasm for life always managed to ease her fears, if only for a moment.

Akiza burst into the burrow, her voice ringing out with excitement, "Nana! Nana!"

"Hai... Hai..." Nanashi grumbled, still half-asleep.

"Ohayo!" Akiza greeted her with a big smile.

"Mhmmm," Nanashi mumbled in response.

"Ohayooo!" Sasuke's voice boomed from the entrance.

"Great, this guy too," Nanashi muttered under her breath.

"Ohayoo, Saski!" Akiza responded with the same enthusiasm.

Sasuke beamed. "That's more like it, unlike some people."

Nanashi snapped, "Unlike some people, I know how to respect personal space and boundaries."

"Well, uhmmm," Sasuke fumbled, "I looked to the heavens, in the trees, and dug many holes, and still couldn't remember asking your opinion."

"What? Is that your comeback? It's not even remotely relevant. Gosh, you suck," Nanashi retorted.

"Hai!" Akiza shouted in agreement.

"Hey!" Sasuke protested.

Nanashi grinned. "Yes, very good girl!"

"No, what are you teaching this girl?" Sasuke asked, exasperated.

"How not to suck like you," Nanashi replied smugly.

"Well, if I suck so much, you can look after her alone," Sasuke said, before storming out in a dramatic fashion.

"Sasuke, come on, man!" Nanashi called after him.

"Saski! Saki!" Akiza's voice joined in, calling out to him.

Nanashi turned to Akiza, her voice softening. "Don't worry, he'll be back soon. He doesn't have many friends. Let's go find ourselves some fun."

"Hai!" Akiza agreed eagerly, her earlier concern quickly replaced by the promise of adventure.

The forest seemed to grow more menacing with every step they took, the twisted branches closing in around them like gnarled claws. Akiza's breath grew rapid and shallow, her wide eyes darting back and forth as if sensing an unseen threat lurking in the shadows.

Nanashi paused, her ears perking up at the girl's escalating distress. "What troubles you, child? Are you too tired to continue?" she inquired, her deep voice a comforting rumble.

Akiza swallowed, her voice barely a whisper. "Not... tired.' The words came out shaky, betraying her growing fear. "Someone..." she hesitated, glancing nervously at the rustling leaves around them, "following us."

Nanashi's ears flicked forward, her massive head swivelling to scan the woods. "Don't fret, child." she said, but her calm tone didn't quite mask the tension that coiled in her powerful muscles. "It's probably just Saki, eager to greet you."

Akiza's eyes widened. "No!" she blurted, shaking her head so hard her braids whipped around her face. "This... bad. Very bad." Without warning, she threw herself onto Nanashi's back, burying her face in the thick fur at the base of the giant fury tail.

Nanashi let out a low growl, the sound vibrating through the forest floor. "Fear not, Akiza.", she murmured, her voice a deep rumble that promised protection. "I am here. Nothing will touch you, not while I breathe, Okay."

Akiza gave a hesitant nod

 "Good, let of my tail and come stand on my right side, I will deal with this quickly."

Just as Akiza let go of her tail, they heard a branch snap behind them. Nanashi quickly transformed into her human form, causing Akiza to burst into tears.

"What? What's the matter now?" Nanashi asked, perplexed.

"Nana! Nana gone!" Akiza wailed.

"I'm right here, look," Nanashi said, reverting to her fox form. This pacified Akiza, stopping her tears. However, as soon as Nanashi turned back into her human form, Akiza started bawling again.

"What's wrong now?" Nanashi inquired, exasperated.

"Nana has dog ears. They're ugly!" Akiza replied in a whiny voice.

Nanashi's emerald eyes narrowed. "Ugly, you say?" she scoffed, her voice laced with a shimmer of fey amusement. "Observe closely," she declared, her fingers gracefully enveloping her fox-like ears. In a shimmering instant, they vanished from sight. "See?" she purred, a playful smile dancing on her lips. Then, her smile flickered, replaced by a mock pout. "Though, calling them downright 'ugly' to my face is a touch harsh. I like your sass, but I can't help wondering where you got this newfound attitude from."

"I can, and I know who," a voice rang out above their heads. A large black figure descended from the tree, landing in front of them.

"You!" Nanashi exclaimed.

"Yes," Jorogumo replied.

Nanashi quickly turned to Akiza. "Akiza, don't look! Cover your eyes, my dear girl. It's the epitome of ugliness! Please, it will traumatize you and scar you for life, haunt your dreams forever. Only one good thing can come from this: whenever someone calls you ugly, you won't need to feel bad at all, because you'll always be more beautiful than her." She winked and blew Jorogumo a kiss.

"You're demented. There's something seriously wrong with you," Jorogumo retorted.

"Nope, I think there's something seriously wrong with your face! Ha! Burn! Isn't that right, Akiza?"

Akiza didn't reply. She was unfazed by the appearance of the half-spider, half-lady creature, and was busy picking her nose.

"Seriously, she has a hairy face with eight eyes, even on her forehead. Come on, girl!"

"I see you're still as rude as ever. No wonder this poor human is turning out like you."

"Hey, she's perfect as she is, but I'm still better."

"Who would ever leave a child in your care is beyond my understanding."

"What do you want? I don't remember us being friends."

"We're not, so I'll give you a warning: leave now. This is my territory, or else."

"Or else what?" Nanashi replied, puffing up her chest and rolling up her sleeves.

"I'll kill you and this little girl of yours."

"I'd like to see you try."

Jorogumo took a few steps back, ready to spit acid venom. Nanashi stepped in front of Akiza and drew her jade sword. Just as the fight was about to start, Sasuke jumped between them with a big smile on his face and said, "Having a little get-together without your favorite person in the world?"

"Argh, who invited him?" Jorogumo muttered, rolling all eight eyes.

"He has a tendency to show up where he's not welcome," Nanashi replied.

"Tell me about it. He's been doing this for the last three hundred years, since he was appointed."

"Ouch!" Sasuke exclaimed.

"Ouch!" Akiza echoed.

"You three do know that I'm standing right here, don't you? And Jorogumo, you never had a problem with me until now."

"Oh no, Nanashi, he's talking to me. What do I do?" Jorogumo whispered.

"Don't panic, girl. I've got you. Just do what I do."

"What's that?"

"Pretend he's not here."

"And that works?"

"Sometimes."

"I've been doing that for about two hundred years, but now... I've got this one. Hey... hey... Sasuke?"

"What?"

 "Look! A tailong dragon!" Jorogumo exclaimed, pointing at the sky.

"Where?" both Sasuke and Nanashi shouted, scanning the clouds above.

"Idiots. You two belong together," Jorogumo muttered before leaping into a portal and vanishing.

Sasuke frowned. "I see nothing. Do you see anything, Nanashi?"

"No," Nanashi replied, turning around. "Where did you say it was, Joro—" She stopped short, realizing Jorogumo had disappeared.

"I guess she got us both," Sasuke sighed.

Nanashi smirked. "I think you mean she got you."

"What? But you looked too!"

"Yes, I did, so the trick would seem more realistic. It's called 'acting.' Have you ever heard of it?"

"Really? But if you knew it was all an act, why ask about the tailong's position again?"

"It's called 'improvisation,' another thing only us 'actors' understand," she said, crossing her arms and tapping her foot.

"But—"

Before Sasuke could present another question, Nanashi raised her hand to silence him.

"Enough, Sasuke. I'm tired and want to go home. Come, Akiza."

When Akiza didn't respond, Nanashi turned around to find her companion missing.

"Sasuke, where's Akiza?"

"She's... definitely not here?"

"Really? Wow, great observation, Detective Obvious. No wonder you're so popular among... no one."

"Hey!"

 "Let us not jump to conclusion and name calling, I am sure there is a reasonable explanation behind her disappearance." Sasuke said, turning into a fox and started sniffing the ground

"Like what, KIDNAPPING!" Nanashi roared.

"No, her sent still lingers, follow me."

Nanashi's every curse echoed through the tightening forest like a death knell. The trees thinned, and a horrifying tableau unfolded before her. The riverbank, bathed in an unnatural, sickly light, became a stage for a nightmare.

There, coiled around a still form, was the Nure-Onna. Her grotesque beauty, a siren song leading to a monstrous truth. A woman's torso, sculpted from porcelain perfection, gave way to a serpent's form, its scales glinting like obsidian knives. Its coils constricted around Akiza, who lay unconscious, a pale doll in the clutches of a predator.

 Nanashi's breath hitched. The Nure-Onna's head, stretched wide like a grotesque parody of a kiss, hovered over the girl. Saliva, thick and viscous, dripped from its maw, a sickening prelude to the feast to come. Rows of razor-sharp teeth gleamed in the twilight, promising a brutal end. The air itself hung heavy, thick with the stench of decay and the fetid river, a suffocating shroud that did nothing to mask the primal terror that squeezed Nanashi's heart.

"Let go of her!" Nanashi shouted. As her fury intensified, her very essence seemed to ignite. Her hair crackled with ethereal flames that danced with an intensity matching her rage.

The air around her sizzled with ominous energy, charged with the raw power of her wrath. A menacing aura enveloped her as her nails transformed into obsidian claws, sharp and lethal—a testament to the darkness simmering within.

"You!" the snake lady hissed.

"Nanashi, calm down, I've got—"

Before Sasuke could finish his sentence, Nanashi's hair and kimono burst into raging flames. The stones beneath her feet popped like kernels, and the water surrounding Nure-Onna began to boil.

"You fool!" Nure-Onna cried.

"What?" Sasuke asked, puzzled.

"You spoke forbidden words to an angry woman."

Sasuke smirked, his eyes glowing green. He turned to Nanashi and repeated, "Calm down," this time in a stern yet soothing voice. Nanashi felt her heart skip a beat as a wave of calmness spread through her body, causing the raging flames to dissipate instantly.

"What are you doing to me?" Nanashi demanded. "I need to stop her, or she'll devour that girl."

"And I have every right to do so. She is mine!" Nure-Onna declared.

"Not this one," Sasuke replied firmly.

"What do you mean, Sasuke? You know that any human in the appointed territory is fair game."

"Yes, I know, but she's not from this location. She must be taken back."

Nure-Onna raised herself up, towering over Sasuke and Nanashi. "And if I refuse?" she challenged.

Sasuke turned back into his human form and looked her right in her eyes, 'It seems to me, that you have forgotten, who I am, I am the guardian of this forest, which means, that I give and take as a please, and everything that inhabits this island, I have full authority of them, even the very air you breath but perhaps I need to remind you, Sasuke snapped his fingers, causing Nure-Onna chest to exploded open, spraying blood everywhere.

'What have you done to me?' Nure-Onna asked barely able to speak.

"I caused your lungs to explode, worry not, I will put you out of your misery soon, Nanashi, how do you like your meat cooked?"

"I..I..do"

'YOU CANNOT DO THIS TO ME!!' Nure- onna, shouted

Sasuke snapped his fingers again and two reeds shot through each side of her mouth and third underneath her chin, from it a water lily bloomed, stretching her mouth wide open.

"Shut up, I was not talking to you, so what is it going to be?" He asked, this time his tone changed into an excited one.

'I do not know.' She answered nervously.

"Let it be my decision," he declared with a smirk, his voice carrying the weight of unseen forces. "But wait, there's something you've forgotten," he continued, his arms outstretched toward Akiza's motionless form. With a mere gesture, her lifeless body obediently floated towards him, a puppet in the hands of an enigmatic puppeteer.

"Here, take her," he offered Nanashi with an air of nonchalance, as if bestowing a mere trinket. And then, with a flourish of movement that seemed to transcend mortal limitations, he began a mesmerizing dance of flickering flames, each snap of his fingers a symphony of divine power.

As the inferno trailed behind his every motion, the air crackled with the intensity of celestial fire. Nure-onna, once a fearsome entity of darkness, now became the unwitting participant in a grand spectacle of divine retribution. Her form ignited with a brilliance that outshone the stars themselves, consumed by the cleansing flames until only ashes remained, carried away on the wings of a gentle breeze.

"No, man! I guess I went too far," Sasuke said, realizing his mistake.

"You think?" Nanashi replied dryly.

"Let's head home. I promise I'll make it up to you."

When they arrived at the village, Nanashi handed Akiza to Sasuke.

"What, you don't want to take her back?" he asked, surprised.

"No, I don't feel like facing that woman. Goodbye," Nanashi said firmly.

"Okay. Goodbye then."

As Sasuke was descending the hill, Nanashi called out to him again.

"Hey, Sasuke!"

"Yes?"

"I haven't forgotten who you are."

"Well, that's a pity," he replied, a hint of humor in his voice.

"Why?"

"Because I kind of enjoy our little dynamic," he said, feeling his cheeks warm up. He quickly turned around and continued his journey.

Nanashi watched him go, a small smile playing on her lips. "Jeez, what was that?" she muttered to herself. "Anyway, I have a date to prepare for."