Stationed in this dismal, charred remains of what had once been the Temple of the Silver Moon, one man stood to survey the damage. For the City-State was but the latest target of the temple's insurmountable path of conquest. Thus, the temple by which this lone figure stood, was the central temple, indispensable in their mission. The Temple of the Silver Moon was a military force, equal in number to that of any of the City-States, and yet more efficient than the Highland forces. Already their influence in this pending war was evident. The kidnapping of the children in Muse was more a nuisance than actual crippling of the militaristic effort of the capital of Jowston, yet it did draw out the nemesis they sought.

The lone figure in his ebony robe stalked through the wrecked remnants of the temple, surveying the gratifying destruction that lay before him. He was a tall, powerful man, with his dark robe hanging perfectly upon his slight frame. Adorned upon his head was a straw, cone-shaped priest hat, by which was common among traveling monks. His hair, coal black in appearance, was left unbound and flowed down the length of his back, yet his eyes were hidden beneath the shadow of his headdress. His entire existence seemed to reside within the shadows of his own, self-appointed enigma. Tucked within the dark gray sash of his ceremonial uniform were a pair of hand sickles, deadly in the hands of a man who knew how to use them. Yet even in his own isolation, he was always candid with his own existence.

Stooping to lift the smoldered banner from the ruble, this man studied the emblem of the Temple, a circle, decorated with an alternating swirl of black and white, often referred to as the Yin Yang. Yet, a single sword, katana blade to be exact, stood before the symbol of alternating good/evil, to indicate the importance of the Temple's power. For though good and evil exist within the world, their power was such to overcome any obstacle. After a moments study, he dropped the banner, returning it to the grave of this lost idea.

"Looking for souvenirs?" A lone, shadowy voice exclaimed as he walked into the ruin to join the other man, followed closely by his student.

The first man had not answered; there was no need to. Fear or anger of discovery were but foolish emotions. For emotion only led to weakness, and this man, as a true disciple of the Temple of the Silver Moon, held no emotions, not even regret.

The second man, this intruder upon his own privacy, continued his march until he stopped at this investigators side. "So, it appears Genshu has returned to the City-States. He could be a problem. I'll take care of him, after all, I owe him for scarring me." The second man stated.

"No Zorin, he is mine." The first man stated, never turning his eyes from the rubble. "Do not let your emotions get the better of you. That will make you weak." The second man said, not turning to face this man. "It seems you have problems of your own. What has happened to your nose?"

Zorin paused a moment to bring his fingers to his crooked, skewed nose, before turning again to face the man he addressed. "Do not concern yourself. A former student of mine has gained a self-righteous perception of morality. Nothing to be concerned over. She will be dealt with."

"As it should be." The shadow stated. "We are close now. We cannot allow any interference from anyone. I leave this 'former student' to you. I will deal with Genshu."

Zorin did not speak, only a slight smile tugged at his lips. For even if he chose to spoke, his student Dag, screamed his own opinion before anyone could say another word.

"What the Hell?" Dag shouted, stepping into the middle of the ruin. "Who the hell do you think you are ordering us like that? I think what you need is a good old fashioned…"

Yet Dag's words were cut off as the shadow's hand reached forth with near invisible speed and clutched the jaw of the argumentative student.

"You are sloppy and poorly trained boy. Do not ever question a master." The shadow demonstrated his point by grabbing Dag's elbow and squeezing. As he did so, a subtle, blue glow encircled his hand. Dag began to scream as the energy surged into his arm and tore at every nerve, paralyzing his appendage in a painful explosion of agony.

"Enough of this Kaeg. He is of no concern." Zorin responded, stepping forward.

The shadow named Kaeg stared at the older Zorin a moment before releasing his captive. "Remember your mission old man. Genshu has already destroyed the Muse temple. There are only three remaining. They must be preserved." Kaeg stood before the squirming Dag and looked down at the creature. "Though I wonder if you are capable of doing just that. You have gotten sloppy in your training. Trust me when I say if you fail the temple, I will destroy you Zorin. Now leave my sight."

Zorin internally scowled, yet bowed to the younger man, as was customary when addressed by one's superiors within the temple. Gathering the nearly unconscious Dag, Zorin left Kaeg alone once more.

"Genshu," Kaeg said, his voice a cracked, harsh whisper. "I truly hope you are prepared. For I am coming for you."

Genshu stalked through the seemingly endless forest; the vast, leafy foliage and thick, sheltering canopy, thrusting the world beneath the trees into a seemingly haunted existence of shadows and phantasms. The few dead leave fallen to the cold earth, crunched under foot as he continued his relentless trek through this dismal, blackened forest.

It had been a strange transition. Genshu had wandered most of his life, alone, and yet, since coming to the City-States, he has been with a companion since his arrival, starting with the inquisitive kolbold, Desmond, then leading to the adventurers Valeria and her former companion Lorelai. There was also Elza, who readily assisted him in taking down the Temple of the Silver Moon, at least in Muse, and Genshu regretted involving her in his past, but to a degree, she was as entangled in the same past, as much as he was. It was a necessary insurance, a reflection of the Third Rule of the samurai, 'Never fight a war you can't win.'

But now, Genshu stalked this dismal, dusty path alone. Despite his personal desire for freedom and space, he must admit, he missed the companionship. Though it didn't matter, Genshu had a mission, and his personal desires were but an inconvenience to him. He had learned from Sage that the temple was preparing a full invasion of the City-State. Even Sai confirmed this, telling Genshu of the war that would be all too imminent, and the temple's involvement. A truth that sent sheer terror through Genshu, for he has seen the destruction and devastation wrought by the temple in their mad quest for power.

The only lead Genshu had was the knowledge that Rockaxe was a target for the temple, though Genshu doubted he would find such information. It seemed that the temple was sent to infiltrate Jowston, stealing the children and distracting both the citizens and politicians from the war effort of Highland. How much attention would someone be willing to give to the threat of war, if their child was missing? However, Gorudo cared little for the war effort nor for the safety of the citizens within the City-State. Thus, distraction to the lord of Matilda would be a waste of resources. Yet, there was something deeper that drew Genshu toward his present course. Though this detail was merely replaced with the greater concern of the temple in Muse, and the kidnappings, it never left his mind. Gorudo seemed extremely persistent in commanding Genshu to do away with the knight, Miklotov and his lady companion. Gorudo demanded Genshu's service to the degree that he would use his a harmless Kolbold as a pawn to invoke the samurai to action. This however failed, and it was his methods that caused Genshu to question the honor of Gorudo, prompting him to readily refuse the offer.

Yet, despite the victory over the temple, and the freeing of the children, Genshu was emotionally morose, swallowed by the weight of his past. He had the power. At one time he could have easily destroyed the temple when he defeated Master Kin, yet he chose to hope human nature would prove more benevolent than he feared it was. His blinding faith in hope and compassion merely caused more pain in the world. He was wrong, and his decision to depart, leaving his master and his temple, weighed heavily on his soul. These sins themselves were equal to that of the death of Marai, the woman who would ultimately pay for his departure in her role in assisting him in escape. He could not save her, nor her son. Genshu reflected upon this as his bandaged left hand instinctively touched his swollen, injured shoulder. The maneuver resulting in this injury, and his victory, driving Sage's own weapon's blade into his shoulder, was equally a means to immobilize the weapons use, as it was to permanently mark his own body, paying retribution to Sage for the dishonor he bestowed upon him by taking his parents life. Though Genshu did not kill Sage's parents, his actions resulted in their deaths, and with Sage now dead, Genshu would never have the opportunity to atone for his actions.

It seemed an eternally endless journey through this boundless forest, yet the subtle smell of simmered chicken snapped Genshu's mind to the present. He could not hear the excitable voices of those sitting near a campfire, which led Genshu to the realization that a town must be near by. Genshu could not tell whether the sun was setting or whether several more hours remained of the day, on account that the sun was not visible in this ever present leafy ceiling. Genshu knew not what of the day remained, and deciding rest would be required before he continued to Rockaxe, Genshu turned toward the aroma of the simmering food, tracking the whereabouts of the town by the scent.

Surprisingly, Genshu came upon the town in a short amount of time however, the town itself would never have been found had Genshu stayed the course he currently took. The forest seemed to hide the whereabouts that this town even existed, which was recognizable though the underdeveloped status of this village. The town itself was small, and possessed a fair number of houses, but offered only one "shop" which was the inn, however they did advertise the selling of certain items. It seemed this town was designed as a resting post for travelers on their way to Muse from Rockaxe, or vise versa. Few people even ventured though the dirt streets as Genshu stepped from the forest, and those within eye view paid this samurai a suspected suspicion as he entered the town. He did not request their notice, but a stranger, in garbs such as his, surely seemed odd to the rural residents of this humble town.

Yet something else seemed out of place for a simple village as this. The people within this hamlet, were fearful of something Genshu was not certain. It was not the same fear expressed in Muse, a mixture of anticipation of the war, and the missing of the children. This fear was of attack from someone. Genshu weary with fatigue, paid little attention to the notice received from the townspeople, as he walked into the inn. His opportunity to learn what has happened within the protective wall of this village would have to wait until he was of a clearer mind.

The inn was extremely spacious, sporting only a few tables and chairs, yet the dust circles present and wearing of the wax upon the floor indicated that there was at one time, more furniture in this inn. It did not seem as if these missing furnishings were the result of sale due to lack of funds, as a few small fragments of wood still littered the floor. There was a confrontation within this town, particularly this inn, which seemed even more bazaar, as this town did not seem to house the same vagrants and ruffians associated with the larger cities.

"You!" The voice of a young child screamed, drawing Genshu's attention to the young boy who was coming down the stairs. "Your one of them aren't you? How dare you come here!"

Genshu slightly curious by this child's greeting, was equally surprised as the young boy jumped from the stairs, throwing his body at the now alarmed samurai. Genshu however, though years of training, and study, reacted with an instinct as basic as that of breathing, and caught the boy in mid-flight, holding him in the air by the lapel of his tunic. Something happened in this town, something wrongful enough to cause this boy to throw himself madly at an unknown man.

Genshu intended to find out of this child the wrongful acts instigated upon this humble town, but before he could inquire of this youth, a large sword rested upon his right shoulder, causing him to wince in pain as the weapon rested upon his injured arm.

"…Please put the boy down…" A steady, solid voice of a strong man who was all too familiar with the art of combat addressed Genshu with his subtle yet forceful manner.

Genshu eased the boy to his feet, before turning to face a very powerful, blond haired man in a green tunic and pants, resting a very large sword at neck level. His eyes were sturdy and strong, and it was obvious, he was very skilled. It would be of no use to defend himself in this situation, and thus, Genshu waited for this man to address him.

However, both of these men, the large, blond haired knight, and Genshu, were not the openly sociable type, and stood, staring at each other for several minutes in silence. It wasn't until the boy, until now, forgotten, address Genshu that the conversation began.

"What are you doing in this village?" The youth demanded.

"I know not what village I am in. I am merely on my way to Rockaxe, to…investigate, and thought to rest for the evening." Genshu stated, turning back toward the large man. "And pardon my saying so, but you have an unusual custom in greeting visitors."

The large man frowned, or rather made no change in facial expression, but looked like he would have frowned if he had, and returned his sword to his scabbard.

"…Forgive me, but this village has been…experiencing trying times." The large man stated, nodding his understanding to the samurai. "I am Humphrey Mintz…"

"Genshu." The ronin stated simply, likewise, nodding his head in respect to the knight. "Forgive me for my earlier actions." Genshu responded, turning toward the youth. The boy however, seemed in near tears.

"I…I wasn't strong enough to help her…" The boy's voice trailed off, as he stared up the stairs of the upper level of the inn.

"Come this way, I shall explain…" The man named Humphrey explained, indicating for Genshu to follow him, as he could read the concern within Genshu's seemingly emotionless eyes.

Genshu complied, following the larger man to one of the few remaining tables within the establishment, and taking a seat. Genshu, likewise, took a chair, his second after the first nearly fell apart in his hands. He sat opposite the blond haired man, who ordered a Sake from the boy, as Genshu merely requested Herbal Tea, and listened to what he would tell him.

It appeared, from the story Genshu gathered from this man named Humphrey, that a tribe of cultists, naming themselves Dragon Knights, had established a base of operations in the nearby foothills. Their purpose was the destruction of the dragons, which in itself was a blasphemy in regards to the methods and ideals practiced by the Dragon Knights of the Toran Republic, for which this group was named. This man Humphrey's ward, a boy named Futch, was a member of the Toran Dragon Knights, and, stumbling onto the cult of dragon slayers, snuck into the den of the clan, only to be captured. It was by some miracle, and other circumstances, that Futch survived. Humphrey informed Genshu that the leader of this cult, a madman named Nerus, had escaped to Rockaxe. A knight and his companion agreed to accompany Futch to find Nerus before any harm could be done to the city. Humphrey also informed Genshu that the boy who earlier attempted to attack him, his mother was badly wounded by the attack that took place in this inn, in her attempt to save her son. The mother appears to have recovered, but is still bedridden.

Genshu listened intently to the story of this insane fiend who seemed quite adapt at punishing women and children. Genshu felt the spark of honor ignite within him. It seemed he would be drawn, yet again, into someone else's war, but such is fate, and he of all men, knew on could not escape destiny. Yet, though the conversation with Humphrey, Genshu could sense the concern this man had for the boy, Futch. It was also understood that the boy would need to choose his own path, but this did not ease Humphrey's apprehensions. He seemed to regard the boy, Futch, almost as a son. For this, Genshu deeply envied the silent warrior, for through training, Genshu would never allow himself to become too close to anyone. At times, he wondered if he ever would. Continuing to sip his herbal tea, Genshu watched as Humphrey rose from his chair, walked to the boy, who sat fearfully in the corner, and placed a comforting hand on the young man's shoulder, before walking up the stairs to his room.

Genshu returned his attention to the cup of soothing tea, as the young boy nervously approached the lone samurai. "Uh…" The boy began nervously. "Sir Humphrey enjoyed talking to you. He's offered to pay for your lodgings for the night." And with that simple proclamation, the boy quickly hurried back upstairs.

Hearing this, a slight smile tugged at the corner of Genshu's lips. It seemed this man, Humphrey, recognized him and what he was. Thus, Genshu's honor would not allow him to withhold a debt. With regarded respect for the man, Genshu finished his drink and walked up the stairs to his room.

The night itself proved restful. Genshu chose to forsake the plush bed, and rested on the bedroll the young boy had provided for him. It seemed his journey to Rockaxe would be more eventful than simply avoiding the numerous guards and knights who would more likely than not, wish to keep him out. After all, Genshu's last visit to Rockaxe was a simple request to Lord Gorudo, to seek assistance in staying the war with Highland. However, Genshu fought four, "bandits" in the inn of Rockaxe, and six knights, plus striking the Lord of Matilda himself. It seemed unlikely that Genshu would so readily get an audience with Gorudo this time. In addition to the knowledge of the boy, Futch, and his desire for revenge against this Nerus, Genshu would also inquire of the temple's presence in Rockaxe, and seek the knight and lady Gorudo so considered a threat. Certainly not an easy quest.

Genshu soon rose from his bedroll, and walked down stairs to the inn, where in the corner he saw Humphrey, sitting alone, drinking a steaming cup of coffee. It seemed he cooked the brew himself, as the child tending the inn was still upstairs. This only reaffirmed Genshu's appraisal of this man, that he was a trained solder, as it was still many hours before sunrise.

Genshu walked to the corner table, and stood opposite Humphrey. Studying this man for a moment, Genshu bowed to the blond haired knight. "I thank you for your kindness of last night. As a samurai, no debt can be left unpaid, as my honor will not permit it. What would you have me do?"

Humphrey took another sip of the foul smelling beverage before looking at Genshu once again. "You are traveling to Rockaxe, no?" Humphrey asked, taking another sip of his drink.

Genshu's eyes narrowed at the smell of the coffee. He wondered how anyone could drink such poison. "Yes. I have business to attend."

"Very well," Humphrey started. "I ask that you look for my ward. I trust the knight I have entrusted him to, but I find from past experience, it is always better to stack the favor. I doubt Miklotov will be able to safeguard him at all times. I only ask that you watch out for him. But do not intervene."

Genshu paused a moment before continuing. "I'm sorry, did you say Miklotov?"

"Yes, he is the knight looking out for the interest of Futch. If you should find him, do not let him know I have sent you. I do trust him, but I would rather all the insurances I can to the welfare of his safety."

Genshu closed his eyes to dwell on the newest revelation. Miklotov and Futch were together. It at least would make it easier to keep an eye on them. Opening his eyes and bowing to Humphrey, Genshu nodded. "Yes, of course, I shall leave immediately."

"I thank you." Humphrey stated, knowing the inconvenience and trickery it was to use the samurai's honor against him. Yet, the more protection Futch had, the better at ease he would be that he were not there to protect him.

Genshu set the bedroll in the corner of the inn, and reached into the pouch that Valeria had given him before his departure and removed a medicine pack. Turning toward Humphrey, Genshu handed the medicine to the large warrior. "This is for the boy's mother. I leave my best wishes for a successful recovery."