MASKTOURN

kenji wakes

Kenji wakes laying on a bedroll in a small room. It’s hardly comfortable, but it’s something. There’s no sign of the Lifebringer- or anyone, really. He'd soon realize his clothes have been changed- gone is whatever he was wearing before, replaced by a simple, robelike outfit entirely in black. He still has his crystal necklace, and his wedding ring. Morning light filters in from the window, casting the entire small room in a dewy haze. The room is tiny- big enough only to fit the bedroll, a small basin for washing, a chest at the foot of the bedroll, and a low, small writing desk, on which is a folded piece of paper, labeled with Kenji’s name, a clay tablet, and a porcelain face mask. The entire room is furnished in plain black tile, and opposite the window is a stone-paneled door leading out. The letter on the desk is written in small, neat script, reads as follows:

Welcome, Kenji Eijirou Himura.

You have been invited to compete in the Lifebringer’s tournament, in this, their hallowed domain. Not only have you received this honor, you have also been selected to compete alongside the Birds, under my leadership. If you have any concerns, or anything suspicious to report, please alert it to my presence. I will be watching you. 

Please wear the mask provided, as it is part of your uniform.

Your Leader, 
Kairas Krosanyouri

The mask was of black porcelain, and would sit on Kenji’s face without falling, held there by some kind of magic. It only covered his eyes and upper faced, and mirrored the look of a bird’s face. Despite no eye-holes, Kenji would be able to see clearly even with the mask on. The clay tablet was just too big to be held in one hand, and was accompained by a small stylus for writing. Its surface displayed the #group-chat, and would update magically as more messages were sent. (edited)

@em || enya 💥 + kenji 🌫

He opens his eyes slowly, rolling over on his side and reaching out for— Hm. No one is there. He frowns, sitting up carefully, and gazes around the room. Certainly not his, no. Kenji’d traveled, that was it. Wasn’t it? Standing up somewhat unsteadily, he makes his way over to the desk. A tournament? Something uncomfortable prickles his skin at that, but quickly recedes. He doesn’t recognize the person signing the letter, but the other name mentioned rings a sudden bell. Lifebringer, Life— Albanes. Of course. How could Kenji have forgotten? The journey here, waiting to speak with her…he must have stayed the night, maybe. Or longer, judging by the invite. The last line of the letter alerts him to the fact that yes, he is in fact not wearing the clothes he had traveled in. It’s interesting, momentarily, but assuming it’s part of the aforementioned uniform he doesn’t seem too concerned. Kenji’s bag is missing, which doesn’t sit too right with him for a second, but at least his necklace and ring are still here and that’s comforting enough. The mask quickly joins the ensemble, feeling at once both foreign and familiar. Like an inverse of sorts. For now, the tablet goes ignored, just like the headache pounding behind his eyes. Maybe this competition thing was the help Albanes had offered? He’d…had some sort of problem with his powers, that was it, but their conversation was still sort of foggy. Whatever the case, Jax would worry if he was gone for a while, so hopefully whatever she’d planned wouldn’t take too long. He heads for the door.