"We've been searching the library for this design, but haven't had any luck," Valan stated.
"I still don't see how it's possible. There are multiverse theories in our world, but I was interested in other fields." Wesley replied.
"We've found a journal from our ancestor describing other worlds. He mentioned seers capable of glimpsing into other worlds, and this inspired a few to reach them." Valan said while examining the broken pieces.
"What happened?" Welsey asked.
"He didn't give details on the experiment only that it was dangerous, and shouldn't be attempted. I believe he left the details of this array out for that purpose." Valan replied.
"Then how did they get it?" Wesley pondered.
"That's a good question. The last one was being used by rogue members of the mages guild, but they tend to be mercenaries. We should talk with some locals to see if they noticed anything." Valan said while gesturing at nearby guards.
Walking around the perimeter was Suinin and with him Suzuki. After everyone was given mentors Suzuki requested working with the samurai. Watching the display of Suinin's sword aura he wanted to learn how to do it, and working with someone close to his age was easier for Suzuki.
"Did you need something?" Suinin asked.
"We need to speak with the locals about people working in this area, and the best way to do that is visiting the city to the south." Valan requested.
"I'll head out right away," Suinin replied.
They entered the jungle and started down a narrow path. Passing the bamboo fields Suzuki was reminded of how frightened they were that first night here. Back then everyone was too scared to separate, but now they are strolling through the jungle casually.
'Almost feels like a different place.'
"Have you been doing the exercises?" Suinin asked.
"I have, and a few extra from Asami," Suzuki replied.
"Good cause we are sparring tonight," Suinin stated.
At a distance, a large wall was coming into view. At the door stood two Ryu's, and on the wall patrolled a legion of Jiangshi. Recognizing the insignia on Suinin's armor they waved politely and welcomed them in.
Roaming the streets was a variety of species and only a small number were humans. This was a city under the protection of the Long family, and it's why they can live in peace. They approached a large building at the center and towering over the doorway was a dragon warrior.
"We will be meeting a member of the Long family so behave" Suinin relayed.
"State your purpose here?"
"We were sent by Valan to speak with the ruler," Suinin said while cupping his hands.
"You see no problem in showing up without proper notice?" The guard asked in a stern tone.
'Those two girls destroyed the arena, and he's huge.' Suzuki began to sweat.
"What's all the racket for?"
Approaching the door was Mey, and seeing two young men at the door she smiled politely.
"Are you being rude to our guest again?" Mey asked the guard.
"N-no, ma'am."
The guard quickly stepped out of the way and bowing as the two entered. Walking behind Mey he realized how well she filled out the qipao. Her black hair was pinned up with jade clips, and Suzuki couldn't help but stare. It started from the nape of her neck and trailed down to the large hips swaying seductively in front of him.
'Seems we have a lively one.' Mey smirked.
Mey took her place upon a throne where two jade dragons made up the armrests. Being the sister of Tian she gifted many luxuries and revered by all in the jungle. From Camelot to the Jade Palace no one would dare offend Mey for her wrath was greater than Tian's.
"What can I help you with?" Mey asked while slowly crossing her legs.
The qipao may have been long, but the way Mey did it Suzuki got a good glimpse of immaculate thighs. Not wanting to be impolite he quickly looked up, but It was obvious by her expression that Mey saw him. Suzuki quickly averted his eyes to the floor.
"Did you receive the reports of the phenomena that occurred in the jungle?" Suinin asked.
Mey rolled her hand for him to continue as if his presence was a bother.
"Did any of your soldiers witness unusual people lingering in the area before it happened?" Suinin investigated.
"My scouts see many things, but so long as they don't pass the border or attack our people I don't pay it any mind. Unless you have something else I have things to tend to." Mey sighed while tapping the armrest impatiently.
'Failing on my first mission.' Suinin clenched his fist.
Suzuki was never good at speaking in crowds, and typically had his nose in a book, but he couldn't this. He may have been patrolling the perimeter, but his hearing was good enough to hear them speak about the array. While struggling to survive in a strange place the thing that kept most of them going was the thought of one day going home.
"We have people separated from their families, and you're the only chance we have to see them again! You have to help us." Suzuki pleaded.
"I have to?" Mey retorted as the city began to quake.
Filled with emotion Suzuki spoke before thinking, and his words sounded like demands when giving them another thought. The guard outside began sweating and didn't dare investigate.
Mey didn't need his protection, and his only purpose here was to report to Tian. He even began feeling sorry for the humans, and wish he had been more stern in pushing them away.
'Do I draw my blade? No, it wouldn't do much, and only make things worse.' Suinin was sweating but he kept his hand off the hilt.
"Get out." Mey declared.
The two were preparing to turn around.
"Just you," Mey told Suinin.
'What?' Suzuki turned around.
"I can't lea.."
"I won't ask twice." Mey retorted as the sound of thunder boomed in the background.
"I'll be outside, and if you need help just call out. We can't do much against her, but there is an array close to here. Just be ready to run for your life." Suinin relayed.