Stepping out into the dazzling dawn rays, I blink, slowly at first. The mind fills with awe, a swift prayer for clemency upon my lips. She doesn't stir, thankfully she slumbers soundly, good. I set my hand upon the stone, feeling her breathe, her warmth, so faint here but so strong.

I look around with my eyes closed first, parts of the area apearing out of the blackness around me. I knew the trails of the woods to my left, and the winding paths to the peak, but the rest remains dark. It doesn't take long to refill my chi and lift my spirits. In fact, one would have to be a master of manipulating their chi to not feel the peacefull harmony she radiates in the still moments.

Clarity, yes it did. I met new friends, and got to speak with a being who has seen much of history.

Nemesis, yes I do have more to post, I had things requiring more immediate concern.



After fortifying myself, and recovering from my long journey, I opened my eyes, watching the forests and meadows melt and become suburbs and cites. The forest has changed, ribbons of grey replacings streams and boulders as landmarks. The cache is still there, after all these years, although time has made it necessary to select new landmarks. Five Ryo, an ink-stone, a brush with it's fibers somehow intact, although the bone handles shows some evidence of being gnawed by vermin, parchment's gone though, but most importantly, the tamahagane remains - enough for one blade. Tucking the ryo into my pants pocket, and the brush and stone into the pocket of my jacket, I smile as I steal a moment to enjoy the soft play of the sun on the leaves.