Ghost of Whisper Creek

Tsukimatsu Arena was tucked back into the Dark Forest. The first marker along the path was a lone wolf Statue glaring out at travelers and carved out of pure obsidian, making it’s black texture glint in the light of the sun that peeked through the canopy. Similar markers would be found along the path, a foot trail more so than a main road and the statues they came across were of wolves walking down the path, all frozen in mid step and made of the same obsidian stone. They all had an ominous presence and made a traveler feel as if it were one wolf leading them to their destination fading in and out of the mist that collected and swirled under the horses hooves.

At some point, after three hours of travel the canopy opened slightly to a wide stone quarry. The stones looked jagged and black, much like the stones that made up the dragons back with green moss growing atop their surface. These stones were littered everywhere and looked sharp should a person attempt to tread on them. In the center of this quarry rose up tall battlements with walls encircling buildings and towers within.

At the front gate there was only one horse, black as midnight with trimming of a dark and deep purple that may as well of been black itself. A long and deep howl greeted them as the horse pranced in small, aggressive steps, snorting and jerking it’s head down in annoyance of the riders tight hold to it’s reins. It was hard to tell if the howls came from an actual wolf or the black rider atop the stead. At the horses feet were two real wolves, the vicious looking animals had their heads down and teeth bared to the strangers that approached the gates. “Welcome” A deep and rumbling voice called out. “We have been expecting you. Lady Kirta Rodsvard. You may bring three of your soldiers with you. The rest should find a place in the forest to rest and camp.”

Krita lowered her head towards the man who greeted them. Her father would have questioned how one man would intend to keep her warriors in the forest, but her father would have come and conquered the city and demanded training. Krita didn’t know if the trainees and whatever army Tsukimatsu kept would stand against her father, but she didn’t come to demand training she came to ask for it. “You have me at a disadvantage good Ser, I was of course expecting to be met before reaching the city, but I do not know who is meeting me.” as she parlayed with the rider she signaled for Megwan, Morn and Walril to join her. The first two were quick to respond the third waited for the exchange to be complete.

A fisted hand rose to chest and he gave a slight bow in greeting, a slight laugh sounding underneath the helm of a wolf that covered his head “Did you not meet the gatekeeper?” the voice sounded as if he might be smiling in amusement “The wolf that walks the path greets all travelers. I am Arthion Tsukimatsu. First born of Lord Tsukimatsu. I was sent to see you through the gate. And to my Lord Father who awaits in the arena.”

Krita lowered her head once more, “It is good to meet you my Lord. I will follow you gladly.” She motioned to Morn, “One of my higher thought of soldiers, Leomorn Trannyth.” She then nodded to the girl on her other side, “Megwan Chandler, my I guess you would say squire.” Krita’s eyes looked back to Walril who shook his head and led his horse back towards the rest of the host. Krita sighed and waved Horeak forward, “And Horeak Milner. We did see the gatekeeper an ominous guide, but a welcome one. Please lead on.”

Arthion chuckled and pulled his horse around sharply, whistling to the two wolves that followed him. A series growling barks answered before the wolves turned and followed, leading their guests inside.

The courtyard of the Tsukimatsu home looked about as dead and rock filled as the quarry outside. In the center however stood a tall and dark pine tree that reached up to the sky. Black rocks were laid out on the ground beneath it in a foreign rune shape where the son of Lord Matsu dismounted and bent to pet the wolves affectionately before standing and removing the leather wolf helm.

Arthion was quite handsome in his own rugged way. He had black hair that sat as a mess atop his head with deep blue eyes. He appeared to be in good shape from training as he approached their guests and gave a more proper bow.

Krita reined in Oblekt and dismounted beside the heir of Tsukimatsu. She looked at the wolves with admiration, “Wonderful animals, I’ve not been able to tame one yet, perhaps because I spend too much time with my bunnies.”

“They require constant attention. But quite loyal.” He smiled “These two are mine. Come, I will show you the way.”

Krita nodded to Morn and Horeak, who were quick to follow their commander. Megwan needed no nod, she was off her horse as Krita started to speak. Confident that her followers would do just that she was quick to follow Arthion. She gave herself enough space to take him in and size him up. A smirk appeared on her face as she seemed happy with what she saw, but she found herself wondering whether Arthion was like his brother when out of his role of greeter. “Soldiers require constant attention as well at times. They learn their place eventually. Mine haven’t reached that point. I hope being here will end that.”

“Discipline. Will end that. My Lady.” Arthion smirked. Ahead of them was a tall arching doorway. At the top was a square stone with a large crescent moon carved into it. The same sigil was engraved into the blackened doors as two sentries pushed them open. Inside was a large foyer with a variety of stairs going up or down. The whole place seemed to vibrate with sound. Sounds of fighting, shouting, howls and barks of hungry wolves. It was as if walking out into the middle of a battleground and yet the place was, for the most part. Empty. “This way my Lady.” Arthion continued as he lead her down one of the steps that lead under the large castle. The sounds grew louder with every step until the passageway opened up into a large chamber. The chamber itself was circular with bleachers all along the walls for observers to look down at what appeared to be a fight, four against four. Cheers and howls of excitement surrounded their senses as the first born grinned back at her and nodded as he continued to show the way.

Krita felt the eyes on her and averted her attention from the action of the fight. She returned the smile and continued to follow, “I don’t suppose this is entirely about discipline. I’ve heard stories of your arena. I pictured it much more grand, though I admit to knowing nothing of your people when I pictured it. This seems much more fitting.”

Arthion laughed, a booming laugh that rose up over the howling watchers cheering their mates below “How much more grand can you get, My Lady?” he asked “This is no sport you see. This is soldiers training for war.”

Krita looked down once again, “Perhaps grand was not the term I was looking for. This is indeed quite grand, I meant to say that I expected something more flashy. I agree there is never room for just sport when in battle, and four against four requires the teams to come together fight as one. Are there ever one on one battles in the arena?”

Morn cleared his throat as he walked behind Arthion and Krita, but made sure he pushed Meg out of the way to be third in line. “I’ve heard rumors, the contract isn’t just for five years of this is it?”

“The contract? Do you take us for fools? Mere wolves scrapping at meat?” Arthion snapped a bit testily before reining himself in and straightening in his armor some. “No this is just one part of the training, the part that my father, Lord Matsu is currently attending. You did wish to see him, correct?”

Krita glared at her guide, though she did think the question was a bit ridiculous. A sound of muffled snickering told the Northern woman that even Megwan thought it was stupid and enjoyed the snap back against Morn. The lack of filter was one thing that Krita liked about Morn, and one of the reasons that she considered him a friend as well as her soldier. “No one thinks that you are mere wolves, you have trained some of the greatest Dragons. Morn just tends to let his mouth run without knowing what it says until he hears it. He will benefit from the discipline that would be offered from training here.”

Arthion smirked and gave Krita a simple nod as he lead them around a top ramp which circled the arena. Down below the four were fighting with various styled weapons and attempting to move as a team. By the sounds of things their attacks were quite ruthless and painful but never caused lasting damage. “The point here is to test your strengths in a battle situation. The only rule is to not kill your opponent or cause lasting damage. Of course accidents do happen. This style of practice is more advanced in your training and most of you won’t even touch foot upon the sands until your third year. Until then you will train in the field before the sun rises and long after it has set. Your skillsets will be challenged and you will be expected to participate in all classes. Be that heavy weaponry or ranged attacks. Tactics, crafting, single and group combat, even a year of Seaman training and how to be a sailor. All are divided within the Castle of Tsukimatsu. The Arena however is the most popular, it is open to outside challengers and is most loved by our students. Here we are.”

Arthion paused at a sudden door that appeared to rise up from the ramp they walked. Two stone wolves stood outside like silent guards. Turning the firstborn looked not really at them but ahead like a young noble when addressing a crowd. He looked rather bored of it as well “Any other questions?”

Krita narrowed her eyes at the man, who appeared to be disinterested in her. She wasn’t looking for him to be drawn towards her personally, but someone bringing a hundred trainees she expected would be taken more seriously. “I have no further questions, but I will tell you that if the arena is an earned tribute I’ll find my feet in the sand within the year.” She paused a moment, “The Lord is inside?”

Arthion bowed stiffly and reached a hand out to push open the door “After you, My Lady.”

Krita shot a look back towards Morn and Horeak instructing them to stay put. She waved Megwan forward, trusting the teen would follow behind Arthion. She then lowered her head in appreciation and started between the wolf statues and through the doors.

Inside two young mid aged women stood and turned to greet their guests, both smiled warmly at Krita and curtsied low. One of the women had darker skin much like Kin’s while the other was softer in complexion and looked alot like the young man that greeted them. It was her that greeted their guests “My Lady Rodsvard. You honor us.” she smiled “My name is Alya Tsukimatsu, first wife of Lord Tsukimatsu. Thank you for coming, I trust your welcome was tolerable? My son can be a bit stiff at times.” she smiled over at Arthion who rolled his eyes and placed a hand on the pommel of his broadsword.

Though she gave Arthion a more military nodding bow, she returned the curtsy of the women to greet her. Megwan did likewise. Krita gave a smile and turned towards Alya, “The welcome was quite acceptable. I wouldn’t expect a military training House to blow trumpets and usher me in under raining flower petals. Soldiers like to know what they are dealing with before opening up. I won’t hold it against him.”

“Never the less.” Alya smiled warmly before motioning to the women next to her “This here is Krystal Tsukimatsu, second wife to Lord Matsu and-” A cheering roar rose up over Ayla’s soft voice as one of the teams made a score. Near the ledge further behind the two wives stood Lord Matsu himself. He had hands on the ledge and leaned forward slightly as he watched with a stern silence. He had a touch of foreign appearance from that of Ravain nobles, a slight tilt in eyes and narrow of face. He seemed tall and sturdy and despite his age looked well toned and trained for combat. His attire was cleanly pressed and well fitted. The pants appeared wide and pleated while his shift seemed to cross in front to form a ‘V’ a deep purple belt holding it all in place and a well trimmed beard that dangled down to his chest and held together by a couple of beads.

Once the cheers settled a slight but noticeable shake of the lords head appeared before he turned and folding hands in large, wide sleeves. “Ah. The Lady Rodsvard has arrived then.” he observed “Welcome to my Arena.” He narrowed eyes critically as he looked her over, calculating things that only a trainer could determine in such a brief moment of introduction.

Krita lowered her head and shoulders in a bow of respect. “Thank you for accepting my presence and hearing my request. I hope to follow many great warriors who have been in this place and done great things. And will say that I hope to bring House Rodsvard to fit in better in this kingdom.”

“Hm.” Lord Matsu rose a brow “We shall see. Come, sit with me.” he motioned to the empty seat next to his own “We shall see more of the castle once the match is over. Do you have any questions thus far. Lady Rodsvard?”

Krita gave one last look to the Lord’s two wives, she was surprised at how different they appeared and wondered if they were just as different in personality. One could be the public Lady Tsukimatsu, the other the fun bedroom Lady Tsukimatsu, Krita wouldn’t be upset if she could work a similar situation, however she was just guessing at why the Lord chose two wives. Putting the thought from her head she took the offered seat with a smile. “I think that I should take things in a bit before I start with my questions. I am very interested on how the arena matches are decided however, observation before questions.”

“Very well.” Lord Matsu nodded as they all directed their focus back to the fight. The fighting lasted for a while longer until only one was standing and only just barely. A cheer rose up at the victory and the trainee leaned against his polearm in exhaustion. Three men came out into the arena and started to help the eight fighters. By the looks of things they were not only tending to injuries but showing them where they might of gone wrong in the battle. Each one picking themselves out of the sand, some were laughing and fist bumping teammates on the other team and others merely glowered and picked up their weapons to leave the sands. One or two stood in conversation and were acting out their fight by raising their weapons and showing with hands where things went wrong. In all. It looked like a group of battle buddies critiquing each other as they dragged their feet out of the arena.

Standing Lord Matsu turned to each of his wives and gave them a quick peck on the cheek before moving to the door “Come, let us show you the rest of the castle.”

Krita stood as well, curtsied to the Ladies Matsu and followed the Lord out of the viewing box. “The castle is quite interesting. I don’t recall seeing black stone used before.”

“You are a lady of the north. From the Wilds as my messengers tell me.” Lord Matsu nodded “I would assume there are no black rocks in the depths of the snow. The Dragons Back is full of black stones. The black is tarnish from years of salt and moss. Scrape the black tarnish away and you find white underneath.”

Krita nodded with a small smirk, “We don’t call them wilds, but yes I hail from the North, daughter of a King whose lands turned against him. He has since risen to prominence here in Ra’vain, but he hasn’t taken to the role of Lord instead of King. Hopefully a second generation of Rodsvards will fit in better. These black stones are quite a wonder. I’m glad you don’t scrape away the ‘tarnish’ perhaps a way can be found to get black stones to Kronnborg for it’s rebuilding.”

Lord Matsu chuckled “When this castle was first built, it was white as snow. Several generations ago. Since then moss and tarnish returned and we of Matsu Arena have more important tasks to focus on then scrubbing walls.”

Krita gave another nod of understanding, “Rightly so, unless the integrity of the stone is compromised there is no need for it to be clean, black is a much more suitable color for a castle that makes warriors. The stone wolves, they are not of the same stone then? I would think they would be something care would be taken with.”

“The Gatekeepers were made of Obsidian. Carried from far off lands and crafted by stonemasons long since gone from our time”

“To be treasured then for sure. I am curious how stone wolves keep your gates however.” Krita responded. If she had wanted her troops could have easily overtaken Arthion as they were met and made their way towards the castle. They would not have lasted long past that, but Lord Matsu must have had some confidence the attack was not taking place to send his eldest son to meet them with only the ‘gatekeepers’ to protect him.

Lord Matsu made little to no response to the curiosity she expressed and merely lead her up and down a few flights of stairs before entering into a courtyard. “Matsu Arena has several courtyards. Each are specified for different classifications. This courtyard is for heavy weaponry. Many of the Red Dragons of La Seine train here.” The field itself was full of soldiers training. Shouts and howls of combat roared around them as trainees bashed large swords, axes, maces and similarly styled weaponry. In the back there appeared to be a blacksmith and a armorsmith. Some of the trainers were in full armor while others without. On one part of the field it looked like an open spar of single duels and combat with a few masters overseeing the battles and on other sections the soldiers were lined up and performing drills. If one soldier fell out of line or wasn’t keeping up, they found a swift rod falling across arm, leg or shoulders to put them back in line.

Krita looked out over the field, she admired the discipline and wished she could attain it without the help and training of Lord Matsu. It wasn’t the man she disliked about the situation, but having to ask for help. “How is it decided who should train where? A month ago I had a hundred men, I’m a number short of that now, but near enough. I just tell them to grab a weapon and practice. Do people choose their specialties or do you choose for them?”

“Each trainees specialization is chosen for them after a year of basic training and careful observation. A soldier looks to you for leadership not companionship.” Lord Matsu shifted his gaze to the girl before nodding out to the field “If my determination of skill is proven wrong then we can discuss a change. Otherwise you learn to raise the bar or fall behind.”

Krita gave a stare to the Lord, “You think I am too close to my men? You don’t even know me. I take that as a challenge that I will pass completely. I do not give choices because I want them to be happy. I give choices because that is what I was taught to do. ‘Let them die with what feels best in their hands,’ is what my father always said to me. I’d rather them live because they used what is most effective. In order for the latter to happen I need to learn.”

“Learning is only part the journey. My Lady.” Lord Matsu spoke stiffly. If she were a contracted student she would of tasted the back of his hand before she had finished her quip.

Krita continued to glare not understanding her place. She was a Lady, a commander of men why should she shrink away from him? She finally gave a nod of agreement though her eyes still bore into the man she hoped would show her what she was lacking, “The first part,” she uttered with confidence, “But if I knew the length of the entire journey I would not be here. I need your guidance my Lord.”

Lord Matsu turned to her, meeting her glare with a calm and passive expression “Then empty your cup of everything you know. Child. And open yourself up to the guidance you seek. Or you will never become what you wish.”

Krita gave a sigh and a nod, “I know you will assign the men who choose to sign your contract where you seem fit, potentially all away from me. I know that I will learn amongst those you choose for me to learn with. At the end however I will be returning home to Kronnborg. The others you assign them or do they choose?”

“When the contract is complete, you go where you will. That is no longer my concern.” Lord Matsu stated simply.

Krita gave a smile, “Then I have forgotten everything my father has taught me about warfare. I come to you however as an accomplished rider, decent with bow and sword even if my form will have to be tinkered with. In the next five years you will make me into a true soldier.”

“Forgetting your training is one step. Lady Rodsvard” Lord Matsu rose a hand and pointed a finger at her chest “Forgetting what you are. Is the next.” Smirking the Lord Tsukimatsu turned and started to lead her down the hall once more.

Krita followed after, her confidence replaced by confusion, “What I am, who I am is what brought me to your door, has me wanting to sign your contract and become more. If I forget that then what is the point of being here? I’m a twenty-eight year old woman, hardly the time to start from nothing.”

“Then...” Lord Matsu stated simply “You have already failed.”

Arthion pushed past Krita and gave a mock smile, leaning close to her he whispered “Warrior princesses and nobles don’t belong here.” It may of sounded like a jab or insult when really he was implying that she had to forget her noble and lofty ways and become a soldier like everyone else.

Krita’s glare bounced between Lord and son, “I have no issue with being a trainee and not Krita Rodsvard while I am under contract. I don’t even have a problem with trainers showing me holes in what I already know, but I refuse to enter these walls pretending that I have never touched a sword, ridden a horse, or fired a bow. I’ve done all of that and I won’t forget it.”

“That is your choice Lady Rodsvard.” Arthion laughed “Obviously your skills surpass mine or my-” a sharp slap sounded along with the ‘oof’ of Arthion as he staggered and rushed a hand to cheek.

Lord Tsukimatus had barely even moved and yet the force behind the punishing hand was enough to split lip and bruised cheek “Watch your tongue. Boy.” the Lord stated in a simple and unbothered tone before continuing to lead the way past another courtyard where soldiers were training with bows and arrows, throwing knives, javelins and other long ranged weaponry.

A satisfied smirk appeared and disappeared quickly from Krita’s face. “I have stated that I do not believe my way is better or proper, but I have a way and teaching me the difference between my way and the right way is better than clearing my brain and starting from nothing. What I do is instinct and if you don’t tell me why it is wrong there is no reason for me not to return to it.”

“Your way of thinking, My Lady Rodsvard is one of superiority and misguided confidence.” Lord Matsu stated calmly as he lead the way past the second courtyard “The ability to learn is by first accepting that you have something that is flawed. You can shoot a bow and have done so for many years of your life...this is why we do not often accepted older students. Your cup is too full. You think that your way is good enough and if you do not see the benefit of a new system and new style or the results are not quick enough for your own patience then there is. In your words. No reason for you to not return to it. All things take time, determination, practice and sacrifice. If you can not surrender one idea and adopt another. Then you cannot learn.”

Krita shook her head and gave Arthion a dismissive look before a pleading one to his father, “My Lord that is where you are mistaken. I can see where most would come here and tell you that your way is not what works for them. I came here because what I have learned my entire life is not working for me. I want to know the right way. I want you to show me a new style. But instead of ignoring my bad style, and start from nowhere I think it is wise to see what I might do that is close enough to right to build off. If everything I do is wrong then you can start with how to hold a sword and I will follow, but starting there without seeing what I do first is just a recipe for me falling back into bad ways.”

“Do you trust me to train you to satisfaction? My Lady?” Lord Matsu simply asked.

“I do my Lord, I’d just like you to trust that I don’t want to cling to my errant ways, I want to learn from them,” Krita responded forcefully, “As you said I am of an age where I have learned much, too much to unlearn. But I wish to change.”

“Then come. And see what we have to offer. The rest will come with time.” Lord Matsu stated simply as he continued to lead the way.

Krita obediently followed Lord Matsu. Her eyes moved from side to side taking in everything but she did not say a word as they walked. She was getting what she wanted, and she kept telling herself silently that she couldn’t worry about her men outside, not now. She knew she would at various times throughout the five years, but now she had to face the challenge herself and hope many of her troops would follow her lead.

Megwan was not far behind Krita and the Tsukimatsus. She heard muffled mumbling coming from Horeak and Leomorn on either of her shoulders. She didn’t let Morn push past this time. And from the sounds of the mumbles he wasn’t nearly as eager to be the second to sign any contract as he was to see the Matsu Arena. Meg was smiling however, glad that she had been taught to write so she could confidently put her name on the contract.

Despite the outside appearance of a quarry surrounded by the dark forest the Lord of Tsukimatsu guided his guests past a few closed doors that were guarded. He explained that they were the rooms where shadows were trained and only shadows were allowed entrance. One door however was opened and was surrounded by a green moss that lead to the outside. Instead of the dark and ominous appearance they saw at the front, it seemed that they came up in a hidden section of the Dragons back that was a large and open courtyard, the mountainous rocks acted as a natural wall around the land where horses, wolves and other breeds of dogs were stabled and undergoing training. There were even other animals such as goats, chickens, turkeys and even a large plump pig scrounging around a compost pile in the far corner. A blacksmith and leather worker was tucked in the back working away at horseshoes and saddles while two wolves fought over some scraps of meat while a young trainer yelped and struggled to pull them apart.

“So my Lady. Do you like what you see?” Lord Matsu finally asked while the two wolves that belonged to Arthion growled and rushed away from their Masters side to help break up the younger pups queraling.

Krita’s initial shock at the beauty of the courtyard was covered by a smirk, “The sights are quite pleasing, but if I wanted pleasing sights I could have stayed in South Port or Old North. I’ve come for more than what my eyes can take in. I think I’m ready to see a contract however if our talk has made you willing to accept my signing years of my life to your training.”

“The signing of a the contract isn’t about what I am willing. My Lady. It is your’s and your’s alone.” Lord Matsu turned and pulled a scroll out from his wide sleeve “My duty as Lord Tsukimatsu is to take whoever signs and show them their own spirit, no matter the challenge.” Handing the scroll to her he watched with a silent stern-ness “To sign you simply prick your finger and sign your name at the bottom of the contract. Your training will begin shortly after.”

Krita took the scroll handling it with reverence. It was her best hope to change the way she did things, to change the future of Kronnborg from one that took from its neighbors and ruled with an iron fist to a future of dedicated loyalty to land and people. She placed the scroll on the nearest flat surface and reached for her knife. She pierced the tip of her right pointer finger without thinking and unrolled the scroll to to sign. When complete she handed it back to Lord Matsu and gave a quick bow. “You have someone who will present the terms of the contract to my troops? I am no longer their commander, not for five years at least. And they should make this decision on their own.”

“Four of my sons are seeing to them now.” Lord Matsu stashed the scroll back in his wide sleeve. “And your representatives?” he looked to the three standing behind Krita.

Horeak and Leomorn looked at each other for a moment and then realized it was a choice they had to make on their own. While they considered Megwan quickly moved towards Lord Tsukimatsu, “I’m ready to sign my contract m’Lord.”

Lord Matsu nodded as Arthion stepped forward and gave a crisp half bow, the red still on his cheek from where his father had backhanded him though he didn’t seem to notice as he handed a scroll to Megwan. “My Lady.”

Megwan gave a deep curtsy as she had been told to when addressing nobles, took the scroll delicately from Arthion’s hand and took it to the level surface next to Krita. She pulled the smallish dagger from her belt and pricked her finger signing her name it would have barely been legible with quill and ink with blood and finger it was basically just a blur. She handed the scroll back to Arthion and stood proudly beside Krita.

Whether it was because he truly didn’t want to let Krita down, wanted to receive the training of a true soldier, or because he didn’t want to be overshadowed by a thirteen year old girl, Leomorn stepped forward as well and followed the actions of his commander and the girl. Horeak was slower, he held loyalty to Krita, but not enough to blindly sign away five years of his life away for training when South Port was so close. He heard tales of its grandeur and spent far too little time there. No reason to sign up here or return home. He was a good soldier, but not truly dedicated and certainly not to House Rodsvard, but he had his pride. If the girl could do it so would he. He was not going to tuck his tail and run from the challenge of Tsukimatsu.