Fukushu found himself lost in thought, gazing at the mountains of the northern provinces. This trip to the defeated Shimizu Clan was unorthodox and hopefully a sign of change.
With Hinata in custody within the capital and General Ryomo dead, the Kitsune Civil War was effectively over. While some pickets of resistance remained, the majority of the forces laid down their arms and returned home. The Shimizu Clan, which was the leading force in the war, surrendered. In prior wars, such actions would lead to the complete annihilation of the clan. This time, Fukushu and his parents would take a different route starting with escorting the body of General Ryomo.
"You look troubled my old master."
Fukushu turned, noting the inquisitive look on Akira's face. Upon hearing of the conclusion of the war, Akira returned to Fukushu's side. Despite the kitsune's desire to protect his homeland, both Tatsu and Shizen understood Akira's duties as guardian outweighed his desires to fight for the Dragon Army.
"Admiring the scenery my old apprentice," Fukushu replied. "In all my centuries of life, I do not think I have taken the time to fully appreciate the beauty of our realm outside the capital."
Akira nodded, a small smirk spreading across his face. "It is amazing how we often take such simple beauty for granted," he said. "As we grow older we begin to take a moment to pause and enjoy the simpler joys in life."
"Quite true," Fukushu added. "Which reminds me, happy birthday."
Akira smiled, the now six tailed kitsune tanking his old master. "Thank you," he smiled. "I still find it hard to fathom that I've reached 500 years of life. It seems like only yesterday I was a young two tail joining the army. I am amazed to have lasted this long considering the foolish actions I once took."
"If there is one thing I am certain of, it is that you have never been foolish Akira," Fukushu replied. "In fact I wouldn't be surprised if you spent your birthday alone in meditation."
"Actually," Akira smirked. "Ayami surprised me with a weekend trip to a bed and breakfast. Rexie and Mia happily watched the children. Even if the boys did cause a bit of mischief."
Fukushu chuckled, finding these moments of familial conversation a stark departure from what he had known for centuries. A talk of spouses, children, the future, and anything unrelated to war. Had the fearsome nine tail, who for centuries sought vengeance, finally grown weary of war?
"General Fukushu we approach the Shimizu capital." Daichi stated.
Fukushu glanced over the the three tail kitsune, nodding in acknowledgement. "Very good," he stated. "Has your brother or Hsu Hao noticed any scouts?"
"No General," Daichi replied. "It appears the north is only defended by the city guard. It's army is still scattered and returning home. The Shimizu are defenseless."
Fukushu nodded, placing a furry hand on the gold and crystal casket of Ryomo. After taking the life of the Shimizu General, Fukushu instructed his brother Chisai to construct an ornate casket to honor his foe. Ryomo had fought with honor, serving Hinata to the best of his abilities before accepting his fate with bravery. As a token of respect, he would provide the six tail kitsune with the highest degree of honor and respect in order for his people to properly say goodbye.
As they now approached the wooden gates of the Shimizu capital city, Fukushu could only sigh wearily. Exiting the gate was a two tail vixen with pale orange fur and a steel grey three tailed kitsune adorned in light armor. "They look so young." Fukushu said softly.
"It is one of the unfortunate consequences of war," Akira stated. "Often times the survivors are far too young, thrust into positions they may not be quite ready for."
"Shall I take them into custody General?" Daichi asked.
"No," Fukushu said. "We did not come here to exact further vengeance, only to speak and return their honored dead."
As the trio approached the two young kitsune bowed, Fukushu noting the nervous expressions on their faces. It struck the nine tail at the youthfulness of the pair. This two tailed vixen and three tail kitsune looked close in age to his nieces and nephew.
"General Fukushu," the vixen replied. "I am Lady Odayakana. This is the captain of the guards and Ryomo’s son Idurō."
Fukushu nodded, looking between the pair. Odayakana was dressed in a regal, pale blue kimono that accented her light orange fur and slight curves. By human standards, she looked like a teenage girl of around 18 or 19 yet held herself with a maturity and resolve beyond her years. Glancing at Iduro he could see the three tail maintaining a stoic expression, despite a glossy look in his eyes as he gazed at the casket of his father.
"Lady Odayakana, Captain Iduro," Fukushu said with a bow. "I return to you the body of General Ryomo. He fought with honor and died a hero. Let your people honor his deeds and provide him a proper burial."
Odayakana nodded, motioning towards the gates. Two four tail kitsune now slowly approached, wheeling the ornate casket inside as Iduro sadly watched it pass. "Captain, if you wish you may accompany the casket inside." Odayakana stated.
"My duty is protect you, my lady," Iduro stated. "It is what my father would do if he were in my place."
"How old are you Iduro?" Fukushu asked.
"205," he stated.
Fukushu nodded, quietly looking between the pair. It was finally Odayakana who broke the silence as she extended her arms, ready to be placed in chains. "I am the one who oversees the Shimizu Ckan," she stated. "As such, I understand the old ways. I ask that instead of enacting your vengeance upon our people, that you place me in chains instead. I will atone for my people so that they may be spared."
Fukushu looked between the two young kitsune. While both showed signs of both bravery and leadership, the nine tail could see the fear and apprehension in their eyes. Having lost the war, both realized that the punishment would see them placed in chains, forced to languish in the dungeon. Their city raised and burnt, eventually leading to their deaths. All the young kitsune could hope for is that by offering themselves, Fukushu would spare the people.
"Lower your arms Lady Odayakana," Fukushu said. "Your people have suffered enough."
Odayakana and Iduro paused, exchanging looks of confusion before gazing at Fukushu. "Our people have suffered enough," he stated. "Far too much kitsune blood has been spilled already. No more. Instead, Tatsu and Shizen have tasked me with escorting you to the capital."
"As prisoners?" Iduro asked.
"No, as guests," Fukushu replied. "After you have honored and buried General Ryomo. Lord Tatsu and Lady Shizen wish to speak, to hear your grievances, and begin to make amends for any slights."
"I do not understand," Odayakana stammered. "Hinata attacked under our banners. By the laws of the realm, I and my people should be punished. The penalty is imprisonment and possibly death."
"We have entered a new era," Fukushu replied. "An era where the true celestials do not wish for vengeance or blood, but peace. That peace starts today...and with me."
Fukushu now bowed before the stunned young kitsune, his voice soft as he spoke. "Please honor us with your presence and the ability to pay respects to your dead."
Odayakana and Iduro could do little more than stammer a thank you, bowing before Fukushu as Akira grinned. Perhaps, after years of rage and vengeance, Fukushu the most fearsome warrior their people had ever known, was willing to embrace peace.