Moyasu cradled her head in her hands after speaking with Pyro, who told her of the Mikomi's danger and the more drastic news of a flood that might put all the tribes and peoples into grave danger. The endless rain had to go somewhere, she did understand that much, but she had never thought before this day that something so severe as a deadly flood could occur. And although Pyro's usual vagueness left room for speculation, she only had time to consider the obvious. Even now, as his translucent form sat beside her on her bed, one hand on her shoulder in ethereal comfort, Moyasu had to make a decision she wished she could deny. In order to save the Mikomi in time, I have to accept the terms of this 'permanent'.

"I don't have a choice, do I ..."

She spoke aloud, looking to her mentor and guardian, clutching her newly-returned necklace in her hands, tears coming to her eyes, but her pride leaving them no escape. No weakness would be shown here, she convinced herself. She had more important things to worry about, and when the time came that the 'permanent' became a hazard, she would simply have to make a decision then. To kill him and endure the reprocussions, or ... The very thought of the alternative let a tear fall. She wouldn't dare think it. Not now.

"Moyasu?"

Sitting up on the bed she was provided, Moyasu rubbed her eyes and realized she'd fallen asleep there, talking with Pyro deep into the night. And although the night replenished her strength and her resolve to go to the aid of the Mikomi, it didn't ease the burdens on her mind.

"Moyasu."

Inoe opened the door and smiled to the girl, Moyasu only raising a hand in return to prove that she was both awake and coherant. She hated the way her life was leading, but she hadn't a choice. She would simply have to accept the consequences. And now. While there was still time to save her ... dare she call them friends?

"Moyasu, are you ready for breakfast?"

"I must speak with the elders about my ... permenent. Now. I have to leave today. As soon as possible."

"Why is that?"

Moyasu stood and placed her bow and quiver over one shoulder, wincing at the pain that still lingered in her shoulder. Then she moved towards Inoe, determination in her glance up to the woman.

"I have friends who need me."

Less than an hour later, after a small breakfast and a pack of food and water being provided for her, Moyasu met with the council of the Tiko village, standing before them as they scrutinized her and spoke in hushed whispers that she cared little to hear nor acknowledge.

"If you wish to assign me a permanent, do it now. I have little time, a far ways to travel, and a war to fight. Whoever it is, choose a strong warrior. Any help will be needed."

Falling silent, the leader of the council soon rose to respond.

"Young lady, Inoe has taken great lengths to prove you are no threat to us, but you do not seem to understand the ... rites and traditions for this matter. It takes more than a day ..."

"I don't have that kind of time, sir!"

"Then you truly do not care to know? Are you so trusting? It may very well lead to your death one day."

"I live how I wish to live ... please, bring the permanent and let me leave. I ... beg you."

She spoke, grinding her teeth as she actually went to one knee, hoping this would appease them. Pyro continually updated her on how much time she had before the Sendo reached the Mikomi, so in a way he made it easier for her to put aside her pride. For a few seconds anyways.

"So be it. Bring Sasaeru. He was the one who volunteered, was he not?"

"Yes, my son volunteered." Inoe responded.

Moyasu's eyes widened. But that wasn't the only surprise. When this 'Sasaeru' entered, Moyasu immediately noticed his age wasn't much older than hers, and that he had a scar over his right eye. She immediately turned to the council, her Chi arrogance once again apparant.

"You send me away with a child? A mere boy as a bodyguard?! Are your secrets so unimportant?"

"You misunderstand ..." Inoe began, the leading elder raising a hand to silence her.

"You are in a hurry, so come forward, both of you. And no complaining."

The two moved to stand before the elder, who asked each for their left hand. He then placed Sasaeru's hand over Moyasu's and with a bright blue ribbon wrapped the hands so they were tied together. This, of course, confused Moyasu, who quickly spoke up once it was over.

"What was that all about?"

The elder only smiled and placed a hand on each of their shoulders, then waved them off and sat again. The rest of the council spoke amongst themselves and this only made Moyasu more confused. She quickly went over to Inoe, hoping she would clarify this misunderstanding. Inoe only smiled and hugged her.

"WHAT THE HELL IS GOING ON!?"

Moyasu soon demanded. Sasaeru only smirked at her brazen reaction and led her to the horses they were being given for the journey. Moyasu refused to mount.

"Tell me what the hell this is all about, Sassy ..."

She demanded, mutilating his name. This only succeeded in keeping him silent, though he did say one thing to her.

"Come on. You wanted to leave, we're leaving. I'll explain that later. It isn't important."

Then he whistled and a large falcon swooped down to rest on his arm as they left the village. With Pyro's updates pounding in her head, Moyasu decided it was best to get moving and have this discussion later. Besides, it was a long ride to the remains of the Chi Village, and she needed to get there within a day. That in itself would be a trial.

She could already tell that this was going to be a long day.