The King Returns (Invite Only)

Blood dripping down the dark haired Samurai's body, he gasped for breath. The blood covering his pale skin and crimson armor was not his own, but a black blood from that of Oni. The treacherous demons had once filled the forest, but now only a few remained. Drawing his blood strained sword, the Fire King took a deep breath. The Oni were a mixture of red and black, many with multiple horns. Their weapons consisted of large clubs and shattered blades. They were a crude race, but their strength was unparalleled. Some with wings, others with multiple arms, they were not easy foes. Fortunately the guild master was experienced in fighting their kind, or similar ones at least. His red glowing eyes met the demonic yellow ones before him, just before he struck them down, black blood splattering across the forest floor. Panting like a dog, he drew his head back, eyes closed. Taking in the fresh air, he cleaned Clarent off before re-sheathing the blade. Looking back at his partners who had also been fighting alongside him, he gave a reassuring smile. Looks like that was the last of them. Pushing some brush aside, light poured into the dark forest as a beautiful mountainous landscape opened up in front of the group. Well guys, we're here. This is Midi. Flowing rivers and lush pink sakura trees littered the land below, dozens of red and black towers filled the cities. It was a gorgeous country, but in the distance he could see the flames. The Oni were invading towns and villages every chance they got. It was appalling.

Alright, before we head out let's do a head count. Who's here? Looking back at the group, he waited for everyone to sound off with their names. Assuming each member he had set off with was accounted for, they could continue on. Initially they had taken the Black Sun across Mistrel to cut the journey time by a significant amount, but they could not continue on with the ship or the Oni would know they were coming. Their enemies were smart, and their influence was more vast than expected. They had finally taken their first steps into Midi, and peril had already struck. I know you guys are probably tired and hungry, but there's not much we can do until the village down there is safe. Once that is done, we'll eat and sleep to our heart's content. Giving them some reassurance, he adjusted his armor to fit more tightly, as it had been quite battered in their previous battles. I know I'm asking a lot of you. If anyone wishes to go home, you may return to the Black Sun now. If not, then we've got a perilous journey ahead of us. Standing in front of the last bright light of the day, Ardere looked to his friends and allies. He would not hold it against them if they chose to leave, but if they chose to stay, then they could be here for weeks. The Great Clans of Midi were powerful, but their refusal to band together and help one another would be their downfall. Infinity Hydra and its allies stood in front of the threat pouring out of Midi. That was their true reasoning for being here. But the Fire King had a personal stake in it as well, one not many could relate to.