I scribbled out a map of Zhitomir to replace the map I stole from the inn in Hoseki. Well, technically it was a gift. I took it, then asked if I could buy it, then it was graciously offered as a gift.
Thinking of home is strange. Partly because I haven't been back in decades--the memories are starting to fade as Ki'Ger is my true home now. But also because my near-death experience caused me to have flashes of childhood memories.
That hideous creature at the pond... the white demon they call a "Yurei." I knew almost instantly we were no match for her. Yet even as I began to run I felt her blackness reaching out for me. The air was sucked from my lungs and everything started to go black. I saw the old forest I used to play in with Misha. I even saw mother.
I survived the encounter thanks entirely to Takeshi and that fae creature. I'd rather not think about it any more.
We only wanted to investigate the rumors. Find out what we could and maybe put a stop to the suffering of the villagers in the region. At least it wasn't all in vain. In Hoseki we've been able to unravel the mystery of the white maiden. As we suspected, she's the vengeful remains of an innocent woman, murdered in cold blood. Thanks to Lady Isaaru, we've hatched a plan to put the Yurei to rest by giving her the revenge she seeks.
Planning this operation is proving to be a test of my patience, however. For all their cunning and wisdom, my companions seem woefully unwilling to accept my advice.
"But Kolya, what if someone sees me?"
"But Kolya, what if I have to kill someone?"
"But Kolya, I'm about as quiet as a Kaiju, how am I supposed to help?"
Nevermind that I make a living on stealth. Nevermind that I've entered the Pegasus Vaults of Pallidus without an invitation. I doubt they'd believe me if I told them...