A Travel and Tsukumogami Story [IC]

[Kasanip]

A Travel and Tsukumogami Story
Theme Song (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEO_3T3v92A)
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af275/umbrellako2/0abcb72f.png


~*~
Players
{table]Player|Class|Name|
Salbazier|Journeyer|Soraya|sheet (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10138034&postcount=3)
Fri|Journeyer|(Haru)|sheet (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10144622&postcount=5)
Banthesun|Journeyer|(Lia)|sheet (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10150170&postcount=6)
Kuma Da|Tsukumogami|(Suchi)|sheet (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=10143766&postcount=4)
[/table]

~*~


Link
Recruitment Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=182231)
OOC Thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=183021)
~*~

[Kasanip]

A Travel Story of Spring


~*~
Soraya's Story

３月1０日 Morning


It is morning! The light comes into the window of an unfamiliar room. It's warm, and as you wake up, there are sounds of birds outside. It's spring, and it has been about 6 months since you started your journey.

That's why the room is unfamiliar, you remember! As you dress and prepare for the day, you think back to your journey. It seems like it has been so fast, but so long already! You just came yesterday evening to the village of Hiko (14,19). It's a peaceful village that is famous for it's mountains. Actually it is hard to reach, and you were exhausted from the long climb on the mountains to come here.

You pause after putting ribbons in your hair. Going to the window, you open it to welcome the morning.
The weather is nice at least! To climb a mountain in winter is not something that is fun. The air is still cool and feels like winter, but spring is coming. There are a few clouds, but it looks like a good day to go outside. A good day to travel!

As you put your bag on the bed gently, you look at the two items that sit on it. One is your sketchbook- it's your treasured item. It also seems so long ago since you started it, but many pages now have beautiful sketchings of your own journey. But maybe it is not as precious as the sketchbook next to it. It seems so worn and fragile, but it is filled with memories of your family and brother. It was his sketchbook, after all.

Now, you open it to glance fondly at one picture.
With it you keep some other things.

A professional letter: A letter of introducing from Ms. Milean. She was your teacher at home before you left, and gave this to you to take to a Mr. Rian. He lives in Iikane, and a member of the prestigious academy there. Someday, you make a promise that you will go there. But it still seems far away. Ah, you think maybe you should write to Ms. Milean! It has been some time. It's hard to receive letters unless you tell such a person where you think you will go.

A ruffled letter: Another letter is not so clean. It is a worn kind of letter. Opening it, there is a small sketch of your favorite flower. The picture is signed Paris. Yes, you remember the street artist who drew it for you. You met him in the town Amagi (13,17) in winter. You wonder a little how he is. Someday you will visit him too!

The innkeeper brings breakfast to your room, and now you are ready! To start a day with a big breakfast, and with beautiful weather, it could not be a better starting!


~*~
Suchi's Story


３月1０日 Morning

Morning is here! You are very tired today for some reason. Of course the hot spring inn you work at is open late. Is that why?
...
Oh, you remember- there was a celebration some men had late that night.


You sit up and stretch. Even if you are tired, this is a feeling you love. To move freely and yawn, or stand, or see. These are all things you can do because of Masaru. It has been...6 years now? Since you became like this. Human-like.

You are of course a proud tsukumogami- a former rock at the hot spring inn. But Masaru changed you. Masaru was your caller. He used to spend a lot of time at the hot spring, and one day called you. He never told you why when you asked. He just looked embarrassed and would change discussion.
More recently he has traveled, to help take care of other villages nearby. So you see him less often, but it is always nice when you can see him.

Now you brush your silver hair. It's unusual, but somewhat popular. When you are free or walk around town, the kids love to come and play with you.

At first you did not understand. You didn't understand so much, but now you understand things like 'lonely' and 'awe' and 'cool.' Your caller had a warm heart, and you were a warm rock, so to have 'warm' feelings is a natural thing.

Natural for a tsukumogami like you. It is normally very difficult for a tsukumogami to live in a town you have heard. But Kido Saizoin (17,23) is a small village, and everyone is friendly. Ms. Sugihara, who is the bakery lady, also appreciates you. Of course, she always is friendly, but you like the bakery. It smells nice, and warm bread has a strange and comforting for you.

You look outside the window. You live on the second floor of the hot spring inn- the owner is Mr. Yamada, and he is kind to you. Of course you work to earn money (it seems to be 'the human way' and you don't complain), and help to repair and do things for him.
You heard that his son went to travel, so maybe he treats you this way because he wants a son.

Maybe it's a strange thought for you too. Why? You don't know, but you are understanding a little the thought of 'family.'

You can see the craft store lady sweeping of course. She always does this at the same time every morning and evening. It's a comforting routine.

The weather is nice today. Spring is coming you think. The hot spring inn has many customer in winter because it is warm. You never had so much trouble in winter, but when relaxed, steam would become frost and that was very cold.

A bird lands on your window for a second, and then flies away. You watch it silently. Someday you want to travel too.

You look at your few belongings in the room. Maybe you can leave soon. Business will be slow soon anyway. But you see a folding paper crane, and a small wood souvenir.

Wood Souvenir: The small souvenir you purchased for Masaru. Often stopping for a conversation, you remember your gratitude. Masaru is a nice person and always told you such a gift was unnecessary, but you still bring them sometimes. You should probably see your caller again before you leave.

Folding paper crane: It's made of red paper. It was not made skillfully, but it's ok. It's a gift from a child at the orphanage. You always have kept it for some reason. Still you play with the children sometimes. Or they play and you join a little. Maybe you should say goodbye to them too?

Ah, and to the Yamada family. You can smell breakfast now. They make it for the inn customers, but also for you too.

And you're hungry. That's an annoying feeling, but also nice for a tsukumogami like you. To eat a good meal is always nice.



~*~
Lia's Story


３月1０日 Morning

It is morning! You roll over in bed feeling like a raccoon dog trying to hide. You're still a little tired from yesterday, but at last you pull yourself up. Looking out the window you can see the weather is nice. Spring is here! Almost. Opening the window you feel the morning wind. It's still a little cold, so you dress quickly.

...
...
Where are you? You remember you had stopped in this small town Kido Saizoin (17,23)

How many months is it? Maybe it has been about 6 months since you started to travel. You left home after your birthday, with your close childhood friend Haru. Really it was his idea, but always you have traveled and played together, and it seemed like fun. Of course there was some homesickness back then, but together you two have made it through many problems. There was the snowstorm in winter, and that one time that Haru had become sick, but you managed to survive ok!

You sit on the floor and arrange your bag. Because some of your paints are almost used completely, you will have to purchase some new ones, you think. But still it is a dream life to be an artist on this kind of journey. You put the brushes carefully away next to the pencils, and take a moment to look at the sketchbook. Maybe this is also a treasure with memories. You can see some sketches of your hometown and of family and friends there. How are they? You wonder.

You had sent a letter to your family and friend Jasmine a few weeks ago, but being a traveler, you are used to the slow messaging.

Kunai: You place your hand on this knife and practice a little. Maybe just trying to wake up. But it seemed like a good idea. The world can be scary sometimes, but Haru doesn't seem to notice it so much. He always is daydreaming.

...
Well, you will be prepared at least!

As you tie your hair, the birds chirping outside give you a good feeling. It will be a nice day today. The sliding door of this traditional little inn smells strongly of bamboo. You also smell the fresh smell of miso. The innkeeper must be almost prepared with breakfast! You are quite hungry too. It's nice that you won't have to cook today. It's embarrassing a little when it is your turn to cook.

Ah, but first you must go see if Haru is awake! His room is next to yours.



~*~
Haru's Story


３月1０日 Morning


Ah, it's morning! You smile to yourself and hold your inkpen and notebook. Today at least, you got up early. Sometimes it's nice to watch the sunrise, especially in a small mountain town. The smells of firewood burning in the morning. Breakfast is hopefully good! You secretly smile to think about those times you wake up before Lia so to make breakfast. Pretending to be nice and helpful to cook for her and you. Maybe sometimes it was to help protect from Lia's cooking. She wasn't that bad, but there sometimes was not a lot of supply for her to burn accidentally. Especially in winter!

In the towns at least, it was nice to have other cooking too. But a little expensive. Not here though. It is a good note you write for Kido Saizoin (17,23) in your notebook.

Someday you will publish it as a travel guide. But there is so much to see!

You look out the window lazily, watching the early morning. Spring is coming! It'll be good to travel today. You watch as the lady across the street sweeps outside her shop. A small crafts shop- does Kido Saizoin make famous crafts? You don't know.

For now though, you must prepare! Lia probably is awake by now. Maybe you can surprise her.

You dress and fix your glasses. Running a hand in your hair seems a little useless, but you always try. Then you sit by your bag. Carefully you put your treasured notebook back inside, and then pause. Your hand touches something else. You pull out a letter and an old receipt.

Letter: Ah, it's the letter from home! You continue to forget to send a response. But it's just a normal letter. Your family seems to be ok. They wished you a happy 18 birthday, now that you are traveling only Lia was with you to celebrate. There is a small feeling of homesickness, but it disappears soon. You'll write them soon, you promise.

Old Receipt: Ah, on the back of this is a name. Giliam - he was a merchant you met and had often looked up to. This reciept he had given when you bought a small toy for Lia's little sister Angela once. You aren't sure why you have kept it, but now that you are traveling, you hope someday soon to meet him again. He did travel through this region, you remember.

...You can smell breakfast now, it must be almost ready!

[Kuma Da]

Suchi

Suchi stretches quietly in the morning light, and a puff of steam rises from his body. It settles against the window, and Suchi imagines what the world outside would look like covered in mist.

Quiet, probably. Warm and relaxing.

A bird chirps somewhere nearby--possibly the one he just saw--and he rolls out of bed to get dressed. His clothes are neatly folded, and as he pulls them on he glances towards the window again.

Maybe today will be the day after all. He's saved up a little bit of money, and Mr. Yamada won't need him until the next season. Of course, traveling will mean plenty of gifts to bring back home, and besides...part of him wants to feel his feet on the road. Wants to find out what it's like to sleep in other inns, or in empty groves in the countryside. Wants to climb up unfamiliar mountains and stare off into the gray distance.

He's never really been very far from Kido Saizoin before.

Tucking both the crane and the wooden souvenir into separate pockets, Suchi makes his way downstairs, both to have breakfast and to speak to Mr. Yamada about his plans.

[banthesun]

Sliding the door open, Lia steps out of her room. The morning light fills the corridor, bringing with it an atmosphere of peace. Lia steps lightly, she doesn't want to cause to much noise. At the edge of the stairway she sees a silver haired figure descending out of sight. It would apppear the inn's other inhabitants were already waking for breakfast. Carefully, she tiptoed over to Haru's door.

For a moment Lia considered sliding the door open and checking on him, so she wouldn't have to wake him up. But he was likely awake already, and it would be a little rude. Lia raised her hand slowly and gently knocked.

"Haru? Are you awake yet?"

[Fri]

It's a fine morning.

Birthday hm? When was the birthday. Was it yesterday? Or last week? He forgot.

Haru looks outside the windows and wonder. What would his entry for this town looks like when he leaves later. But it's silly to think about leaving when you've just arrived.

He wears his jackets and put his notebook into one of its pocket. He loves pockets. They're useful and looks pretty. He choose this jacket especially for the number of the pockets. One day he...

Uh, Haru picks his notebook back from the pockets. There are cherries there. Why are there cherries here? That's the problem with pockets, sometimes you forgot that you put something in it.

But he digress. He tiptoes toward Lia's room to take a peek. Sometimes it's necessary to do this. Because he still remember the big lump on his head that he got from waking Lia up months ago. He wonders why did that happen.

Eh, he forgots, so that can't be important. But before he could do that, He finds Lia at his door!

"Morning. I thought you're still asleep. Do you want to have breakfast already? I think it's still too early. I got some cherries though." Haru says what's in his mind.

Haru then descends the stair of the fine inn.

He looks around as he descends. He was tired yesterday and didn't properly observe the inn. What does it actually looks like, he wonders.

"Do you want to take a walk before breakfast?" Haru says, although it's more to himself, because he doesn't actually wait for Lia's answer and continues toward the door.

The morning is kinda cold, it's still early. He puts his hands in his trouser's pockets as he put his feet in his shoes.

He then steps outside. As he walks a few steps, he thinks. Hm, He thinks he forgot something.

Ah. Was the inn owner there? What does he even looks like? Wait. Is the inn owner is a he or a she? He think the inn owner might've greeted him as he steps outside. You're supposed to greet back when people greet you, aren't it? Did the inn owner actually greeted him?

Oh well, Haru shrugs. He'll be back. He'd like to ask about the specialties of this town to the inn's owner. But it can wait.

This morning, he'd like to have a walk first. Not that far, maybe just a couple blocks around the inn. He loves to see people starting their day, starting their journey. A journey, however short, is a journey.

So, with hands in his pocket to guard it against the chilly morning, he starts his walk.

But he thinks he forgot something else.

Oh. He's supposed to wait for Lia's answer. Uh... He forgot... He wonders if she's still around.

It's a fine morning.

[Kasanip]

A Travel Story of Spring 2

~*~
Suchi's Story


３月1０日 Morning

You go down the stairs, hearing a noisy pair of travels preparing for their day. Or at least waking up. It is not an unusual happening.

You walk into the kitchen following the good smell of breakfast. Coming into the room Ms. Yamada smiles like a grandmother.

"Good morning Suchi." She said. "I was just finishing preparing breakfast. Have a seat at the table, it will be one minute." The small kitchen is well supplied, and this morning Suchi noticed that the supplies are full. Ah yes, he had helped to move the rest in yesterday. That meant the Yamada family would have plenty and not need his help so much. Mr. Yamada was sitting already, looking at his book of accounts. He always reviewed these things in the morning before the day. Today is no different.

"Good morning Suchi." He said with a nod. "I wonder if those customers of ours will be wanting to use the spring before they head out. It looks like a young couple. Or perhaps they aren't that far yet."

Ms. Yamada makes a noise of disapproval.
"It seems there are more young people traveling away now, out of their hometowns and running off to do strange things. They should think about their parents back at home!"

Of course Ms. Yamada feels this way because their own child has gone off also. But that was before you came to live here.

Mr. Yamada looks up and notices the thinking look on your face. He was always very sharp.

Or maybe you are just very bad at hiding your thoughts.

"Do you have something you want to talk about? Please sit down." He said with a gesture. Ms. Yamada disappeared out of the room for the minute. She was going to bring breakfast to the guests.

Mr. Yamada looks at you expectantly. Ah... maybe this will be harder than you thought?



~*~
Lia's Story


３月1０日 Morning

Ah! Haru is awake too. Of course you can choose to follow him on his walk.

The silver haired boy catches your attention because...well, it is unusual! Was he perhaps a mysterious tsukumogami? That would be exciting! You have not seen one in a very long time.

Ah, but already he has disappeared somewhere. Maybe you will see him again before you leave? Ah, Haru is going off on his own- he never seems to stand still.

The inn is a beautiful traditional place. Being in the country, it is not a rich place, but it feels like a nice and nostalgic one. The stairs make a friendly noise and the mats are comfortable. Walking outside you follow Haru as he slides the door open.


The sounds outside are a peaceful kind. The sounds of sweeping, and a few kids who are playing early. They look poor, but happy. Maybe they were orphans? It was strange to think there was an orphanage for such a small town. Maybe the stories about the war affected things even here. Your own village didn't have that problem yet. But in your travel, you have seen some of it.


You walk through the old streets, and see some early shop owners coming to their stores. Most live in the back of their shops, it is this kind of town. There is a beautiful early mist still on the mountains. Apparently there is supposed to be a few temples up on it. Your legs are a little annoyed by this thought. Of course though, the nice thing of traveling is to see all sorts of things.

You are used to the exercise of course.

You turn around just before the town hall and center of the village. There is a small fountain and a stone statue, but you don't know what it is. Of course there is the path up the mountain, and one that is the mountain road you came here on. Of course there are shops as well. You also can see some of the kids playing with a small ball. There is much to see!




~*~
Haru's Story


３月1０日 Morning

The inn is a beautiful traditional place. Being in the country, it is not a rich place, but it feels like a nice and nostalgic one. The stairs make a friendly noise and the mats are comfortable. Walking outside you slide the door open.

The thought of course comes of the inn keeper. He was a nice grandfather-like man and his wife was a good cook. The hot spring also seemed very nice. Maybe that's a good thing to add to the notes of this place?

The sounds outside are a peaceful kind. The sounds of sweeping, and a few kids who are playing early. Was there no school for them?

You walk through the old streets, and see some early shop owners coming to their stores. Most live in the back of their shops, it is this kind of town. There is a beautiful early mist still on the mountains. Apparently there is supposed to be a few temples up on it. Lia may not be too happy to climb more mountains after yesterday. But your legs aren't too happy either.

This of course is the life of a traveler. So many options!

You turn around just before the town hall and center of the village. There is a small fountain and a stone statue, but you don't know what it is. Of course there is the path up the mountain, and one that is the mountain road you came here on. Of course there are shops as well. You also can see some of the kids playing with a small ball. There is much to see! What will you and Lia do?

[Kuma Da]

Suchi

Suchi frowns a little, then quickly hides it. He doesn't like upsetting people. Mr. Yamada has always been kind to him, and it doesn't feel right telling him something that will remind him of his son's absence. On the other hand, it doesn't feel right to just stifle his hopes of traveling, either. It was never this complicated, being a rock.

"Mr. Yamada, sir," he tries being diplomatic, "I was wondering if, with spring coming and business slowing down for the season, you might allow me to travel? I've never been outside of Kido Saizoin, and I would like to see the countryside. Of course, I would also take care of any work that needed to be done here before I left, and I am sorry for the inconvenience of my request."

It sounds polite enough, but he's not sure that will do any good. Not going by the expression on Mr. Yamada's face, at least. Reluctantly, he tries one final gambit. "I know your son is traveling as well. If you'd like, I could look for him. Maybe bring him a letter from home. I'm sure he'd like to hear about how you've been." Suchi looks hopefully across the table at the innkeeper.

[Fri]

Haru watches the morning unfolds around him in silence. Morning is such his favourite time of the day. He doesn't go anywhere yet, he just walks around the block, humming, trying to wake himself up and preparing himself for the day.

After a while, his stomach starts to grow. "Lia, do you want to have breakfast yet?" He says, forgetting that Lia might or might not be following him. He walks back to the inn.

"Good morning." He greets the innkeeper and anyone who's coincidentally around. "Is the breakfast ready yet?"

He then realizes something and bows to the innkeeper. Or offers to shakes his hand. He forgot, how to introduce himself in this area? He need to write that up in his book later.

"We haven't been properly introduced yet right? My name is Haru, and I might be going to stay here for a while. This is such a lovely town. I wonder, do this town have any specialty?"

[banthesun]

How can a travel writer be so absent minded? Sometimes Lia couldn't understand him. Well, at least they were getting a good look around the town, and the morning was very pretty. The sparkle of the water in the sun was particularly intense in the light. Reflections lit up her face with a faint pattern as she gazed into the water, and she made a mental note to make a quick sketch of the statue later.

When Haru asked about breakfast Lia smiled slightly, she was a little too tired for a long walk before breakfast. Her stomach even rumbled softly when she thought about the food. She hurried back to the inn with Haru.

Entering the inn, Lia gave a short bow in greeting to the innkeeper too but stayed silent. She was content to let Haru chat with him for a while, as long as he didn't say anything too absent minded.

[Kasanip]

A Travel Story of Spring 3

~*~
Suchi's Story


３月1０日 Morning

Mr. Yamada looks serious and rubs his chin.
"Hmmm! So you want to travel too? Yes, it has been...6 years I think it was. It's been a long time since sir Masaru brought you here."

Maybe not the best description, but a normal person can't understand the feeling and experience you know.

Mr. Yamada made a smile on his face, but he looks a little tired too. For you it's still a little difficult to tell human age. Being a rock tsukumogami is especially this case. But Mr. Yamada speaks up quickly.

"You've grown a lot Suchi. I must say that we've come to view you like another son. But certainly you have grown enough now to take care of yourself. And it is a big world isn't it?" He chuckles.

"Alright then!" He seems to warm up to this idea now. "It would be good for you to go out of Kido Saizoin. And you are right. The business will slow down for the season. Actually I was thinking to see if any of those young orphans at the orphanage would be ready to help out here for some extra money. And I'm not so old that I can't take care of this hot-spring." He pats his arm and pauses to drink.

It seems like a long pause because of your nervousness, but also a paradox because it is so fast for you as a rock tsukumogami.

"Of course if you are planning to leave, you should prepare yourself. You'll need a map and food, and warm clothes, and good shoes." He pulls out his wallet and counts out a number of coins to give to you.
"Yes, Here. This is the rest of your pay and some extra as a gift."

He pauses to think again. "Ah, wait a minute." He stands and walks out of the room for a minute. Then he comes in with a beautiful green and white scarf.

He puts it on the table in front of you.
"Here. It's still cold in the mountains. I guess since you've been in a hot-spring for so long maybe you haven't experienced it before."

Before you can respond, Mrs. Yamada comes in again with a curious look on her face.
"It seems those guests went out, how strange." She says, putting the food down. But she sees the money and scarf on the table and she stops.
It was another awkward second, but she quickly recovered.
"Oh my. Oh my. Suchi dear, are you going somewhere?" She asked. Mr. Yamada cleared his throat.
"He's going out to travel. Tsukumogami also don't want to be kept in a house forever."
Mr. Yamada defends you, but you feel a little relieved and awkward. The scarf and the coins you were not expecting. But you don't have possessions really to give.

And if there was not enough, another interruption! It seemed the travelers were back. Mr. Yamada rose this time.
"Suchi hasn't had breakfast yet, dear. I'll go bring the food to our guests."
Mrs. Yamada seemed to recover more now and brought your breakfast to the table. It is a nice miso soup and rice and fish.
"Well, eat up Suchi dear. Do you have any places you want to visit? Where are you thinking about going?" She asked. "Oh my, I know we have a map here. Where is it? Ah, here it is." She finds a map in the collection of scrolls. It's old, but you can still read it.





~*~
Haru's Story


３月1０日 Morning

It seems Lia is still a little quiet. Maybe she's sleepy?

When you come into the inn again, the innkeeper comes out. He is a nice grandfather-like man, and you remember he introduced yesterday as Mr. Yamada.
"Good morning." He returns your greeting with bowing. "Your food was to be delivered before, but it seems you left early."
He leads you inside to your room and prepares the table before bringing in the food. It is a nice dish of fried mountain potato, miso soup, fish, and rice. He puts the food for Lia across from you.

With your introduction, he smiles.
"Oh I see, I see. Of course you can stay as long as you like." His expression is warm and thinking.
"A specialty? This town's specialty is in...hmmm. Maybe it's difficult. Certainly you should try the mountain potatoes, they are very delicious. Also you should try the bakery for potato bread and rice bread. It's a rare place in town. I am also proud to say our hot-spring is very popular in autumn and winter. But that season is going to finish soon."
He pauses.
"Oh yes, we are famous for 'Callers.' At least, for such a small town as ours, we have had some young people go away to train as a caller many times, and even now we have master Masaru who lives up the mountain. I hear he has an apprentice, but maybe that's just a rumor."
He shrugs. Then he realizes his mistake.
"Ah, of course please eat! You should eat while it is warm, it will help you keep warm!
Is there anything else I can get you?" He asks.





~*~
Lia's Story


３月1０日 Morning

Haru seemed to be ok with his words. The innkeeper, Mr. Yamada, greets Haru and you kindly.

"Good morning." He returns your bow with a bow. "Your food was to be delivered before, but it seems you left early."
He leads you inside to Haru's room and prepares the table before bringing in the food. Fortunately Haru did not have a messy room. Maybe it would have been a little embarrassing. It is a nice dish of fried mountain potato, miso soup, fish, and rice. He puts the food for Haru across from you.

With Haru's introduction, he smiles.
"Oh I see, I see. Of course you can stay as long as you like." His expression is warm and thinking.
"A specialty? This town's specialty is in...hmmm. Maybe it's difficult. Certainly you should try the mountain potatoes, they are very delicious. Also you should try the bakery for potato bread and rice bread. It's a rare place in town. I am also proud to say our hot-spring is very popular in autumn and winter. But that season is going to finish soon."
He pauses.
"Oh yes, we are famous for 'Callers.' At least, for such a small town as ours, we have had some young people go away to train as a caller many times, and even now we have master Masaru who lives up the mountain. I hear he has an apprentice, but maybe that's just a rumor."
He shrugs. Then he realizes his mistake. He looks at Haru and you and gestures to the table.
"Ah, of course please eat! You should eat while it is warm, it will help you keep warm!
Is there anything else I can get you?" He asks you.

Of course, if you had a question he is happy to make an answer too. Or you can enjoy a nice breakfast with Haru.

[Kuma Da]

Suchi

Suchi studies the map. He hadn't really been thinking about where he wanted to go, just that he did. He thanks Mr. and Mrs. Yamada both for the breakfast and for their understanding, but the map presents him with a problem that he isn't sure he can solve yet.

Where does he want to go?

Perhaps he'll start with the next town over, and see where that takes him. "I haven't seen the mountains in Hiko before. I've heard the view there is incredible, but there are so many other sights to take in, too."

"Have you ever been traveling, Mrs. Yamada?"

[Kasanip]

Suchi:

Mrs. Yamada smiled. "I've never been too far out of the town. This town is my home, and it always has been. I did think about traveling one time. I never thought about the anywhere else before Takashi left home. Sometimes when I look at the mountains now I wonder what is on the other side. But I'm too old now to start doing something like that."

She eats a little of her breakfast to pause. "My cousin lives in Hiko, and he said it is a nice place. We used to have a painting that he sent to us. It was in the hot-spring, do you remember?"

She thinks again.

"You'll come tell us your stories and adventures when you come back, won't you?" Mrs. Yamada asks you.

[Fri]

"This seems to be a nice town. We're definitely going to spend a few days here, Mrs. Yamada.

Hey Lia. Do you have any idea where should we go today? The potato bread sounds delicious... I really need to write more for that food part... Have you tried the hot spring?

Ah, that's right Mrs. Yamada. We're currently in a journey to write a travel guide. I hope I can represent this town well. You said that this city was famous for its caller? That's interesting. Maybe we should visit him sometime..." He says toward Lia as he picks food. He looks around the room, trying to note what kind of characters visit this inn.

"By the way Lia." he continues as he chews. "Have you got any news from our town? Do you remember when was my birthday? I got a birthday card, but I... kinda forgot when was actually my birthday.."

[Kuma Da]

Suchi

Suchi remembers the painting. It had always sort of slipped his notice before; a curiosity in a world where so many other things were curious. When he was first called, a songbird or a tree or a man haggling over the price of potatoes at the market had been as interesting as any painting. Now, though, he found that he could remember many small details about the piece. The color of the sky. The shape of the trees. A worn umbrella leaning against the side of an old shack. "I do remember it. Whatever happened to that painting, anyway?"

When Mrs. Yamada asks if he plans to come back and tell them stories, Suchi responds with a bright "of course." After all, it's not like he's planning to leave for good. He has plenty of friends in Kido Saizoin, and Mr. and Mrs. Yamada will need someone to help out at the inn when things become busy again.

[Fri]

"By the way, Mrs. Yamada." Haru says as he picks another food. "Another thing that we collects are local stories. Every town have one!" he says enthusiastically... "A lot of people ignores them, thinking that the only local specialties are food and sights. But stories are delicacies too. Every place have their legends and it tells so much about the locale. Do you know any interesting local legends?"

[banthesun]

Lia takes a seat and pulls her food closer to her. She says thanks to Mr Yamada before digging in.

"Hey Lia. Do you have any idea where should we go today? The potato bread sounds delicious... I really need to write more for that food part... Have you tried the hot spring?"

"Uh, not yet!" It did sound relaxing, and even if she wasn't going to be the one writing about it, she didn't want to miss her chance. "Maybe we should do that tonight?"

"Ah, that's right Mrs. Yamada. We're currently in a journey to write a travel guide. I hope I can represent this town well. You said that this city was famous for its caller? That's interesting. Maybe we should visit him sometime..."

"You said he had a house on the mountain, right?" she asked Mr Yamada, "that's on the way out of town isn't it?" Turning back to Haru she continued "I'd like to see what the view from up there is like from up there." Of course she meant that she wanted to see if it would make a good drawing, and hoped that was apparent to him.

"By the way Lia. Have you got any news from our town? Do you remember when was my birthday? I got a birthday card, but I... kinda forgot when was actually my birthday.."

"Uh, wasn't it a week or two ago?" Travelling all the time made it hard to keep track of the date, especially as Lia had always relied on routine to keep track of it before. Even the seasons could seem different in different places. Lia thought back to the snowstorm in winter. She'd have to check her calendar.

When Haru asked about local stories Lia smiled. Every town sounded unique with a story attached. Perhaps that alone would be enough to ensure their guide's success. Haru must have put a lot of thought into this. She looked at Mr Yamada and waited.

[Kasanip]

A Travel Story of Spring 3

~*~
Suchi's Story


３月1０日 Morning

Mrs. Yamada smiled.
"The picture got damaged by all of the steam from the water, so we took it down. I think it's still in storage upstairs. I should probably put it in a room." She says.

When you agree to come back, Mrs. Yamada smiles like she knows a secret. But it's a little like a wistful smile.
She stands up again.

"Good. You are a good boy Suchi. I'll make you some food for your trip. Hurry up and finish your breakfast now." She says hurriedly turning away. Busily she hums a song and starts to collect food and different things to put in a bag for you.

Actually yes, you should get your things you want to bring together! It's exciting to feel like you're almost ready to go. Mr. Yamada isn't back yet however. And of course there may be some things in town you want to do before you leave too.






~*~
Haru's Story


３月1０日 Morning

Mr. Yamada rubs his chin thoughtfully.
"Legends? Hmm... Ah, yes." He walks to the window and points.

When you had arrived from the mountains, you had not noticed, but of course in this area there are many mountains. And nearby there are 3 mountains like a family. The closest one however, is different. You can see is flat at about halfway up. It stops suddenly, like something cut off the top. It reminds you a little of a cake that is cut in half. Or if you eat one bite of a banana. But to cut a mountain like this must require some frightening magic, or the work of a God.

"That is Kawaradake, it is a sacred mountain. Maybe you think it is a volcano, but it is not. The legends say that a long time ago when the gods fought over the lands, this mountain was cut with the sword of the sun goddess."

Mr. Yamada explains this for you.

"There is a beautiful shrine near to it. Also many monks live around. That is also where the Caller lives. His name is Masaru." Mr. Yamada looked at Lia. "You can find his place if you follow the trail to the top. If you are looking for interesting things, you should go to see it of course. The view is very nice I've heard, but it's been a long time since I have gone so high up!" He laughs. "You young folks should have no problem though."

He rubs his head again as he thinks.
"Well, there is one more legend I think. The mountain pass to go north is said to be haunted. If you walk through there, do not look back or you may see a ghost following you!" He says. "It's fairly long, so even in day it can be dark in there. So be careful!"

He steps back. "Of course if you are staying tonight, the bath will always be ready. Though we are not a legend, we are proud of our hot-spring here."






~*~
Lia's Story


３月1０日 Morning

Mr. Yamada rubs his chin thoughtfully.
"Legends? Hmm... Ah, yes." He walks to the window and points.

When you had arrived from the mountains, you had not noticed, but of course in this area there are many mountains. And nearby there are 3 mountains like a family. The closest one however, is different. You can see is flat at about halfway up. It stops suddenly, like something cut off the top. It reminds you a little of a cake that is cut in half. Or if you eat one bite of a banana. But to cut a mountain like this must require some frightening magic, or the work of a God.

"That is Kawaradake, it is a sacred mountain. Maybe you think it is a volcano, but it is not. The legends say that a long time ago when the gods fought over the lands, this mountain was cut with the sword of the sun goddess."

Mr. Yamada explains this for Haru and you.

"There is a beautiful shrine near to it. Also many monks live around. That is also where the Caller lives. His name is Masaru." Mr. Yamada looks at you. "You can find his place if you follow the trail to the top. If you are looking for interesting things, you should go to see it of course. The view is very nice I've heard, but it's been a long time since I have gone so high up!" He laughs. "You young folks should have no problem though."

He rubs his head again as he thinks.
"Well, there is one more legend I think. The mountain pass to go north is said to be haunted. If you walk through there, do not look back or you may see a ghost following you!" He says. "It's fairly long, so even in day it can be dark in there. So be careful!"

He steps back. "Of course if you are staying tonight, the bath will always be ready. Though we are not a legend, we are proud of our hot-spring here."

[Kuma Da]

Suchi

Suchi hastily tucks into his breakfast. As he eats, he runs through a mental checklist of the things he needs to do before embarking.

He's going to have to check in at the orphanage, and pay Masaru a visit, and possibly stop by Mrs. Sugihara's shop. He's also going to need a spare pair of sandals and a pack to keep souvenirs in, so he'll have to pay the shop-keepers a visit, too.

Of course, before he does any of that, he waits for Mr. Yamada to return so that he can thank him again and wish him well for the season.

After breakfast, Suchi will head over to the orphanage.

[Fri]

Haru looks visibly passionated. "You hear that Lia? What a coincidence. The caller also lives around there! I bet he knows more interesting stuffs. Thank you for your tips.

And I bet the view would be great. Of course we'd stop there. What's the point of a journey if we're not enjoying the views! And, Lia, uhm, beautiful illustrations are also part of an interesting travel guide...

Should we go there soon!?" Haru looks like he's going to walk there right at that moment. But he sits back when he just half standing. "Ugh, I forgot about the potato bread. And I want to sightsee in this city too. Should we try potato bread first, then the hot spring, then... but wait. I heard that you're supposed to try this thing first and that... uuh. Why is there only twenty four hours in one day... Maybe if we skip lunch... AND dinner..." He says as he holds his head with both of his hands. You wonder how he'd be able to do this journey without you.

[banthesun]

As Haru starts to panic Lia gently presses her fingertips against her head and sighs. A faint smile spreads across her face, hidden behind her hand. She'd gotten used to dealing with his foibles by now. After waiting for him to calm down she spoke.

"We don't have to do everything today. If Mount Kawaradake is on the road north we could visit on our way out of town. We can spend today just looking round town."

Finishing off her breakfast, Lia thanks Mr Yamada and stands.

"Oh, I'll go grab my sketchbook from my room before we go," she adds.

Heading back to her room she pauses, noticing Haru's compliment in hindsight. It was always nice to know what he thought of her art, especially when she rarely asks him for his opinion.

Lia cheerfully collects her sketchbook and pencils before returning, feeling ready for whatever the day may bring.

[Salbazier]

Soraya

Puttin the sketchbooks back into its place Soraya hurriedly got to the door to let the innkeeper in with the breakfast. "Thank you very much for the food, Sir" She says to the innkeeper as he puts the food on the table.

"Hummm" She inhales the air deeply with a joyful expression. The delicious smell makes a very nice combination with the morning air.

After the innkeeper took his leave, Soraya begin to leisurely dig in.

Hmm, she thought as she chew her food, what should I do today?

Perhaps she'll just walk around the village. Leaning back in the chair, she turns to look at the view of the village from her window. The town look quite nice but she was tired for any sightseeing yesterday. Maybe she'll ask around for some spot with nice view for another drawing as well. While climbing mountain in winter may be no fun, to view its scenery is a different matter altogether. Those white peaks are really beautiful.

Yes, she'll draw some pictures and send it with her letter to Ms. Milean. To Paris as well. They would love to see this beautiful view. Well, provided that Paris' adress has not changed from the last time. Unlikely though.

After she finished her breakfast she grab her white hat and with her bag in tow, she goes downstairs merrily to greet the world in person.

[Fri]

"Phew. I guess you're right." Haru sighs in content before finishing his meal.

He then greets Lia as she exits her room, after she's readying herself. "Alright! Let's look around the town! Do you have some place you specifically want to go to, Lia? Let's have that potato bread for lunch!"

Walking around the town, Haru cheerily notes anything that he finds interesting in his notebook. Which, typical to him, is completely random. He seems to be drowned in a particularly engaging note about how the local sewer looks like, for instance. He simply walks around without any particular plan or regard of time, if Lia doesn't steer him. It's clearly up to his partner to find the proper time to pick the potato bread.

[Kasanip]

A Travel Story of Spring 4


~*~
Soraya's Story

３月1０日 Morning


The innkeeper smiles and sets the food down. "It is my pleasure young lady. You can leave the tray here, I will come to retreive it later." He said, and left.

Breakfast is a quite delicious omlette and soup and fruits. You have learned that traveling a lot makes you very hungry!

You take your white hat and your bag and go downstairs. It smells fresh of pine trees as you open the door. Ah, it is a nice feeling!

Looking out of the door it is a beautiful view. Surrounded by tall mountains, you feel very small. But the little village is a beautiful place and you start to walk, even though your legs are a little tired still. There are not so many shops you think, but you do find a post office to remember for later. Surrounded by mountains there must surely be a good place to draw a picture.

There are a few other people walking around this morning. There is a young man with short hair carrying an axe. There is a young woman with a bucket of water as she comes from the well.
And there is a strange man wearing a hat as he pulls a horse.

Surely one of them can help you find a good thing to make a sketch!



~*~
Suchi's Story


３月1０日 Noon

Mr. Yamada returns seemingly in a good mood. When he sees you finishing your food, his smile changes a little.

He isn't a man who would hug. But he does say his farewell in his own way.

"Don't get lost. Have a safe travel."

He says and pats your shoulder.

You gather your preparations then and say your goodbyes. It's kind of a strange thought, but also exciting for you. A tsukumogami on an adventure! You had never heard really of this kind of thing, but at least the weather was nice. You go outside now, and see the crowds. But the children who run around making noise in the morning are always a good guide for you.

The orphanage is a small place, but the keeper is nice. You have heard a little about the war, but it seems some of these children are 'refugees'. Still they are very cute and fun to play with. Though their games can be confusing. Sometimes they say you must be 'Demon' and they go to hide. You are supposed to find them, and it seems they aren't so smart. To hide behind a rock surely won't fool a tsukumogami rock.

But today it is a normal day. As you walk to the door, you see a grinning boy- Yuma who is sitting next to it on a box. He is missing a tooth it seems. Rather strange. Maybe he had a fight with someone?

"Hi Suchi! What's up? Wow! What's in the bag?!" He asks with excitement. Some of the other orphans who had a ball came running to surround you. Always some of them poke you or stare at your eyebrows. They are a little unsettling; children. Most of the girls are inside it seems, though one little girl is holding the ball as she stares at you.




~*~
Lia's Story


３月1０日 Noon

A satisfied meal is finished, and you return quickly to bring your sketchbook and pencils. Haru of course seems to be his normal self. At least you are here to help him!

Together you go outside. The weather is a little warmer now that it is later in morning, and it blows in your hair softly.

Of course you are prepared to sketch in this environment, and as Haru walks around the town, you make some sketches. The streets are rustic and now there are some people in the town. Everyone seems to notice you are travelers (it is the clothes and Haru's fault you think!), but they are polite and don't seem to mind.

You have to stop Haru from being too embarrassing at the sewer however.

It becomes almost midday you think, and you are sitting by the fountain to make a sketch. It is very beautiful, but there is a sundial on the other side of it you haven't seen.

Haru seems to be walking around the fountain and writing in his notebook furiously. And as you finish another sketch, your stomach growls a little.




~*~
Haru's Story


３月1０日 Noon

It's a beautiful day! A perfect day to investigate this town. You have found some interesting things! For example, there is stone streets in some places, but dirt in others. Maybe it is an economic problem? It does give a rustic feeling to the mountain town.

It seems rather busy, but you don't really notice- it must be a good thing for tourist season. To come in early spring then, that is your note of a good time to visit. Aimlessly you walk with a note and pen to record all of the details. But as you were investigating the sewer, Lia pulled you away with some red look to her face.

Now you are in the center of the town. There is a fountain and Lia is sketching another beautiful picture for the guide. And you are walking in a circle around the fountain, writing your notes. It's about noon you think. There is a sundial you could check. That is a rare thing to have you think. Maybe it is also good to investigate.

[Kuma Da]

Suchi

"Oh, nothing special," Suchi holds the bag open, revealing Mrs. Yamada's handiwork, "it's just a packed lunch." He waits for a moment, grinning, then exclaims "it's because I'm going traveling! I've never been outside of Kido Saizoin. Where should I go?""

It's easier to be enthusiastic around the orphans. Even if they don't always make sense, they seem to worry about things a lot less than adults.

"What happened to your tooth?"

[Salbazier]

Soraya

After considering it for a moment, Soraya decide to approach the man with the axe.

"Excuse me, good Sir." Taking her hat in her hands, she politely greet the man "May I ask for a bit of your help?"

[banthesun]

Lifting her picture to compare it with the fountain, Lia frowned. She wondered if she could have captured the sparkling water better if she had more colours to draw with. As it was, Lia felt her drawing was as good as she could make it. She packed away her pencils and stood up, brushing down her dress where she'd been sitting.

She was feeling hungry, and wondered if Haru was ready for lunch too. He didn't look particularly hungry, but with him it was always hard to tell. It wouldn't be the first time he hadn't realised he was hungry till after lunch had passed.

Lia strolled over, meeting him next to the sundial.

"Are you ready to try that potato bread now?" she asked.