Chapter Text
Japan was currently in chaos. After the leading faction of the nation’s top powers was defeated by foreign countries, a war arose. It was the first time another faction ruled other than the Morning clan. The Morning clan ruled with strict power, and was heavily disliked by most other factions. When the Kyu faction was defeated, a struggle began. The Angel clan became a rising power, their leader loved by many. The other four factions needed to take sides, quickly. One was an unstoppable, powerful clan of demons. The other of strong priestesses and mages. And the remaining were newer, but well rounded with warriors of many kinds. A rougher clan and a more peacekeeping clan. The Angel clan began to strategize their potential allies.
“I definitely believe we go for the Blood clan.” The woman with short, brown hair suggested. “They're powerful, and a great asset. Their leader is humble, she'd accept for sure.” The other woman, sitting on her desk surrounded by books, thought. Then gave an exasperated look.
“But remember, she is known for being manipulative. You don't know if she'll assassinate us at night. Especially with her crowd, Takeuchi.” Angel’s leader called. “Think a little more. I say we go for Kobushi, they'll be better on the long run.”
Takeuchi started, and pondered on about the current situation. If Morning was to obtain Kobushi, that would eventually become a problem. They were far more powerful in terrain combat. But Blood was almost unstoppable, she wondered why they haven't tried to take over. They had the smallest regions in the land, after all. Her thoughts were interrupted when her comrade walked in the room with many letters in hand.
“We've gotten messages with support from all the small mercenary groups in Angel faction, Kobushi, and Tsubaki clans.” She bowed, fumbling all the letters onto the desk. “Several samurai groups, not a lot of variety.” Sighing, Wada raised her hand to her forehead.
“Count the demons as considered. If the Morning clan get ahold of them, we'll surely be doomed. We can't allow them to rule the country any longer. Nakanishi, contact the rest for scouting groups.”
Nakanishi gave a worried expression. “The five demons are almost never seen together, or even seen at all. Their regions don't even have people, they are their own army.” She began to worry even more. “I'll get to that soon, but I think I can find one of them and discuss it.” After several moments of silence, the two left their leader to attend other duties. They were in Wada’s governing office after all. If she were to consider the Blood clan, she needed to research. Grabbing all the books and scrolls she could gather, Ayaka began to read.
Five demons of their main five regions of the land.
The Queen of the forests, Kitsune. Their leader, known to be manipulative and demanding. But also very kind on some accounts.
The Tyrant of the mountains, Oni. A monster, whoever trespassed never came back. Nearby villages are always wary of her attacks.
The Guardian of the plains, Sarugami. A reasonable demon, but her diet consists of human. Very protective of the land.
The Princess of the snow, Yuki-Onna. Is never seen, as nobody has come back to tell the story.
The Trickster of the coasts, Koma Inu. Previously a Guardian, she has been corrupted by power. Tricks nearby travelers and makes them lose themselves.
They were all beyond powerful, but as spiritual beasts they could never interfere with priestesses keeping them in check. Perhaps they could free them, which was risky. Or they could gain the priestesses as allies. Though the Kanto faction was shy. Wondering what to do, she continued to research her potential comrades. She'd end up sending messengers to both major factions. To Kitsune and Yama, both tough people to convince. Though she sent her best people, and began to prepare her armies for the upcoming war. Suppliers came to her side, and she was fully equipped for war. Fukumura on the other hand..
“FUKUFUKU-SAMA!” A screeching girl ran into the regal office. It was very western, chandeliers and all. “Guess what guess what!” Fukumura turned to the screech, raising an eyebrow. “The Kanto faction would like to ally with us!!” This was a great accomplishment. Even if the Angel clan obtained demons, priestesses could seal them up again. The priestesses already had them contained in their small regions.
“I'm pretty sure they're willing to just because of the recent breach.” Another walked in, following the energetic child. She was far more calming. “The Kitsune almost escaped just yesterday. Took a whole thousand to seal her up again.” Fukumura thought once more, Angel was trying to obtain the Kitsune.
She lifted her arm towards the armory. “Sato, Kudo, tell Erina to prepare more sealing staves for the Kanto.” If she could supply Kanto, they would surely be loyal. Kanto’s main purpose was to keep Blood in check. If Blood was out of the picture, the war would be an easy win. And she would bring back the Morning rule for centuries once more.