Putting the wolves of Ravorn behind him, the black behemoth had been struggling to find a place where he felt like he belonged. The dynasty to the south, within the deep jungles of Verdant's Grace, seemed too much like a prison then a kingdom. At least from the impression that the silver man had given him. Elsewhere Gekirin had just met dead ends with nothing to show for it. Hopefully his daughter was having better luck, wherever she was.

So steadily he made his way to the north, hoping to find something that might bring him some promise. He had awoken in the forest nearby, rising from an abandoned den and heading for the river that flowed beneath the cobblestone bridge. Reaching the water's edge, thirsty lips bent down to drink, letting the water flow down a somewhat parched throat.

What he hadn't expected was the very familiar scent on the wind. The kind that made his memories kick into overdrive and make him freeze in his place. No, it couldn't be. But who else? Golden eyes looked up from his place at the bubbling river, looking around to see if he could find them.

Large paws moved up to higher ground, bringing him to the entrance of the bridge. Only then did Gekirin confirm what he had first disbelieved. Right there just a few feet away from him was Izumi Fujiwara. I thought I would never see that face of yours again. It's been too long.