ã€ŠThe Way of The Wandering Bladeã€‹


 Chapter 0: Prologue

    Waves crashed upon the rockfaces, and gulls cried in the distance, black clouds covered the heavens pierced by forks of lightning. Bobbing upon the waves was the wreckage of a great leviathan scattered across the coast, splinters of the king of the seas. And clinging to life a sickly figure rode a driftwood door still somehow intact. Drifting aimlessly the wreckage followed the whims of the current. Slowly spreading out before washing upon shingled shores. And clambering up from the soaked wood he had come upon, a lone figure. A sickly shivering mess made a hesitant first step onto the cold shore, before collapsing; embracing the sharp shingles.

    Yuki sucked in the cold winter air; her muscles tensed as she drew back her bow. Reluctantly the great bow flexed and bent, back, back, all the way back as she drew the arrow to its head. Then just as the steel tip met the groaning stave of the bow, she let go. Almost as if slipping, speeding away from her, the arrow flew straight. Thudding into a post it drove straight through, pinning itself to the centre of the target.

    A sigh escaped her lips, and her muscles relaxed as she saw the result. Turning around she puffed out her chest standing to attention before her judges. Three wealthy, well dressed, grizzled men watched her dispassionately, the oldest sucked on his pipe.

    ¡°Well done, Joen it seems your daughter has some skill.¡±

    A middle-aged man, his face bearing several scars turned to his elder ¡°Thank you lord Hatamoto, your praise is excellent.¡± A look of relief crossed across his otherwise stoic face. He leant on his right elbow, or rather what was left of it. The end terminated in a fleshy nub, lost long ago in dire battle.

    ¡°She can draw a bow father, there is more to a warrior than just that¡± the youngest man sneered. Handsome and arrogant he sipped a bowl of sake as he watched.

    ¡°It is a full warrior¡¯s Yumi[1]! she hit the bullseye at 150 yards! She is ready to fight for the clan.¡± Yuki¡¯s father objected, raising his stub of an arm in agitation.

    ¡°Hah! You say that since you cannot father a son! Just marry her off to someone already, you cripple!¡±

    ¡°Enough, I am the master of this clan! Her worth is to be proven to me.¡± the eldest man said with agitation.

    Silence fell on the courtyard, broken only by a slight breeze scattering small snowflakes fluttering in the breeze. The cry of gulls echoed in the distance bemoaning the clouded sky. Taking a deep breath, the old leader of the clan spoke.

    ¡°Yuki Ryujin, how skilled are you in the use of a blade?¡± Her heart pounded in her chest she needed to impress him to advance she needed to show she was a worthy warrior.

    ¡°I am proficient with the blade and can demonstrate if the great Hatamoto wills it¡± she said, Yuki felt her stomach tighten under the gaze of Hatamoto Ryuji; beads of sweat formed on her skin. Dam that spoilt grandson of his! She knew that Hatamoto would have accepted her performance if it wasn¡¯t for his goading.

    The silence continued; Yuki¡¯s stomach continued to tighten. Had she offended Lord Hatamoto? Was her fear showing? Had she not sounded confident enough?

    As these thoughts raced in her head Lord Hatamoto inverted his pipe letting the used ash fall to the ground

    ¡°Then demonstrate! Goemon my child you shall spar with her!¡±.

    The younger man turned to his elder, a scowl across his face.

    ¡°Spar with her?¡±

    ¡°Of course¡­ you yourself said there¡¯s more to being a warrior than drawing a bow, well then you should be more than qualified to demonstrate this¡± Lord Hatamoto Ryujin gestured to the sullen retainers in the background who brought two wooden blades to the yard.

    ¡°The first to draw blood wins¡­ after which I shall decide¡± he said as another Retainer dutifully refilled his smoking pipe. Goemon staggered upwards shoving his sake bowl towards a servant, before snatching the training weapon from his retainer.

    Yuki also grabbed a wooden blade stepping into position, bowing to Goemon.

    ¡°Thank you, lord Goemon, for this opportunity to prove myself¡±. She said stiffly. She would enjoy landing a blow on him.

    ¡°Don¡¯t get your hopes up, I will break those little hands of yours, then you¡¯ll get to match your father.¡± He hissed, his breath reeking of sake. Yuki bit her tongue, even if he would one day be her liege lord. She would enjoy teaching him respect this one time.

    The two separated to the edges of the square, eyes never leaving their opponent. Goemon took a strong stance his blade held above his head; Yuki gripped her blade her fingers closing around it¡¯s hilt. Lord Hatamoto took a deep drag from his pipe, time slowed as tension filled the air.

    Yuki watched Goemon, she had seen him spar before. He had always emphasized power, indeed it looked like he would try a devastating blow. Even if she were more skilled, he could still land a hit, one strong enough to make his threat reality.

    She closed her eyes, she couldn¡¯t defend, he would break any block she tried. And his reach was much greater than hers. She needed to even the odds, her eyes opened, focused on him on striking quickly. Lunging from out of his reach, she could see the steps, she just needed to be fast enough.

    Then Hatamoto blew out a cloud of smoke ¡°Begin!¡± he barked briskly.

    Yuki sprang forwards her blade spearing forwards towards Goemon, he swung downwards. The world was a blur as Yuki charged forwards, both fast and slow. The Snowflakes danced on the wind, and gulls cried in the skies. Stormy waves churned on rocks far away.

    Yuki dashed backwards, ducking narrowly below the whistling of Goemon''s bamboo blade. Geomon on his part stumbled, groaning stiffly as he lost his balance. She had done it; she had felt it. A solid hefty connection between the practice sword and his chest. Heart pounding, she grinned.

    Goemon shot a venomous glare at Yuki ¡°How dare you¡± he hissed.

    ¡°Goemon!¡± Lord Hatamoto barked, his beard bristling in irritation. Taking a long drag of his pipe he sighed, ¡°Yuki, I will consider your role as a member of the Clan. As a warrior of the Ryuji, in the meantime continue to hone your skills and behave with honour¡±.

    A cloud of smoke obscured his face ¡°Goemon, I will have a talk with you¡­ on your conduct and attitude. And what is acceptable for an heir of the Ryuji Clan¡±. He said, followed by an ominous pause.

    Then as the sky above grew thick with black clouds Lord Hatamoto dismissed them with a smoky cough. Bowing Low, Yuki kowtowed, her face a mask. Goemon bowed sharply, his face as black as the storm above, then marched away, humiliated.

    Yuki stumbled away feeling light, the tension in her body once strung like a yumi had disappeared. Joen rushed up to his daughter, his scarred face obscuring her vision. He wrapped what was left of his arm around her waist, embracing her affectionately.

    Yuki smiled; she realised she was going to become a clan warrior. Her families honour, her ambitions, they were all going to come true.

    Yet as they walked into the castle rooms a feeling of unease settled on Yuki. As the skies above swirled in thunderous turmoil, the winds of change blew into a gale.

    ***

    A few days had passed, and Yuki now sat polishing her sword, a beautiful katana[2]</a> passed down through the ages from father to son, and now daughter. Its metal shone with her reflection atop a pattern of wavering ripples dancing across its edge.

    She frowned at the sight of her white hair, evidence of her mother¡¯s side. Shaking her head she refocused, after Goemon¡¯s defeat she¡¯d hoped for some acknowledgment from Lord Hatamoto. But since that day she¡¯d had not a word, not a messenger to congratulate her, nor an invitation from him to at least hint at an initiation. Scrubbing the blade more harshly she wondered if in fact he was still considering her, or if she had performed an act to bring her reputation into question.

    Yuki placed her head in her hands frowning into the shining blade when the whisper of a partition sliding reached her ears. Face tilting up she met the giddy smile of her father; he had been elated ever since she beat Goemon. Although secretive as well.

    ¡°Yuki, I see you¡¯re taking care of your sword¡±.

    ¡°Indeed father, I must have it prepared for when I¡¯m finally initiated, when Lord Hatamoto finally decrees it¡±.

    ¡°Yuki¡± Joen said shaking his head ¡°You must be patient. Lord Hatamoto has many duties, he may take even another month to decree you a warrior¡± he said, taking pity on her youthful haste.

    ¡°Up to a month¡± she whispered to herself. What if he changed his mind in that time? She worried, perhaps she might even need to prove herself again. She frowned at the idea of facing Goemon once more, he had been cocky last time and drunk too. He¡¯d probably defeat her the next time, maybe even break her hand as promised.

    A firm hand ruffled her hair, looking up she saw her father beaming down.

    ¡°Yuki don¡¯t worry. I have something that will cheer you up¡± he laughed.

    ¡°What?¡± She asked peevishly, did he know something she did not?

    Joen gave a knowing smile. She let him lead her into a room where there was a set of armour.

    It glimmered in the newly set sun. Hammered iron scales layered upon each other in solid plates of lamellar. Fronted with leather, each row was painted in alternating blue and white, representing the proud colours of their clan. The blue sea below and white clouds above their mountain hold. It looked familiar. Indeed, Yuki quickly realised it was her father¡¯s set, but it had been refitted for a smaller body. Her body. Not only that but the familiar dents had been hammered out and worn buckles replaced entirely. The peeling paint touched up and refreshed. It seemed completely new to her despite its familiarity.

    Yuki stepped up slowly and stroked the panoply gently. Looking back, she gave her father a hopeful look.

    ¡°Can I put it on?¡±.

    Joens smile widened, ¡°of Course!¡± he said, ¡°Put it on!¡±

    Yuki Lifted the cuirass above her head and slipped it over her chest, fastening it above her hips. Greaves, bracers, pauldrons, and helmet. The whole set a Warrior might need. She looked at herself in the mirror her sharp face framed by the magnificent helm, a few strands of snow-white hair poking out from underneath.

    She admired her image; she could see it now. Riding to battle as a Warrior of the clan, bow in hand, wearing such a fine panoply. Defeating raiders and slaying Oni, she would bring honour not only to herself but her father and Clan Ryuji.

    Giddily she twirled around glancing at herself from the rear. Not a blemish or imperfection, not even a scratch. It covered front to back and side to side. A mighty armour for a mighty swordswoman. Yuki¡¯s grin grew wider and wider.

    A knock at the door interrupted Yuki¡¯s revery. Turning abruptly, she regained her poise, focusing she turned her face into one of sombre humility.

    ¡°Enter¡± Joen called. The partition slid open revealing a solemn faced retainer who bowed low.

    ¡°The great Hatamoto would like your presence at his court¡± he said in a monotone. No ominous forbearance or hint of hope. Only the dryness of day-to-day duties.

    Yuki gave her father a hopeful look, which was returned with a bright smile. Carefully removing the armour, Yuki followed the retainer. He walked quickly, and Yuki strode stiffly, attempting to disguise her impatience, yet her steps were swift, and she was ever only a pace behind those of her guide.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.

    Rounding several corners and crossing the courtyard Yuki was led into the central keep. A dominating tower of wood and stone, tiled roofs swept down giving the impression of an ominous frown as it surveyed its surroundings.

    But soon Yuki was inside and crossing a heavily guarded partition entered the courtroom. At its centre sat Lord Hatamoto, stroking his beard contemplatively; an incessant stream of smoke pouring from his pipe. Reclining next to him Goemon was downing a bottle of sake. Surrounding them sat retainers in fine dress and filling the air was the calming notes of a shamisen[3]</a>.

    Yet the Retainers all had a look of disquiet upon their faces, and the music had a languid effect. In a corner sat curled up was a strange figure, wrapped in rags, only its emaciated arms showing. For a second, she wondered if some strange form of Yokai had been caught but pushed it from her mind. Stepping forwards, Yuki once more felt dread and Anxiety, the twisting of her gut returned. And with it doubt filled her mind. Lord Hatamoto¡¯s eyes caught hers and with a slight gesture motioned her towards him.

    Carefully, and with poise. Yuki made her way towards the clear space before the Lord Hatamoto. And with grave sincerity Yuki prostrated herself before the lord¡¯s seat.

    ¡°Yuki Ryujin, you have come before me to fulfil your families¡¯ duties as a warrior of the Clan, one who protects the lands of our great Kuge lord and follows the precepts of the divine Emperor¡± Yuki¡¯s heart pounded as Hatamoto rasped.

    ¡°You have demonstrated skill with bow and sword and inherit the loyalty of your father¡± Yuki felt her cheeks blush with pride.

    ¡°However,¡± the word croaked out hoarsely. A verbal arrow whistling through the courtroom; and unsettled Yuki.

    ¡°To ascertain your worth to the Clan you will be assigned a task, which is to deliver this to the imperial capital.¡± and at a gesture the odd figure was brought out before the court. Bundled in tattered rags it hobbled out stumbling then coming to an unsteady stop before Lord Hatamoto. Softly the rags slid down revealing a face, as pale as it¡¯s white arms. Its nose was hawkish, and eyes sunken.

    Yuki realised with a start it was a human, but not like any she¡¯d seen before. But there were subtle differences, perhaps in the proportion of the face. His tallness. But most striking was his hair, a pale yellow, like straw or gold.

    ¡°Father just kill it, it¡¯s probably some marooned pirate or Yokai in disguise¡± Goemon whined, his face still deep in his sake cup.

    ¡°No Goemon we have already discussed this; I do not think he is a Yokai. But he is an Omen, and our lord in the capital must be shown this specimen¡±.

    Goemon rolled his eyes and went back to his bottle.

    ¡°Yuki Ryujin, it is the duty of warriors to faithfully serve their clans in all aspects. If you can fulfil this labour and bring him to the imperial court, then you will have demonstrated your dedication to our clan. And will be recognised formally as a Bushi¡±.

    ¡­

    Yuki rubbed the oily cloth across her blade. Every warrior knew that proper weapon maintenance was key to success. Look after your weapon and it shall look after you.

    Was the reason she¡¯d say she was doing it. But the truth was she needed to vent. It had been polished to a mirror sheen hours ago, but she needed to quell her frustration. This squirming in her stomach that wouldn¡¯t let her stand still. Why couldn¡¯t Lord Hatamoto just declare her a warrior of the Clan, she could shoot. She could ride, and she¡¯d even beaten that drunkard Goemon.

    And yet? He was demanding she drag some foreigner to the capitol¡­ and in the middle of winter no less!

    Furiously she polished the sword, then sharpened it vigorously before returning to furious polishing. So intent was she that she was taken by surprise by a familiar voice.

    ¡°Yuki¡± stated Lord Hatamoto ominously. Startled Yuki jumped to her feet; the old man stood nonchalantly inspecting his smoking pipe.

    With horror Yuki realised she¡¯d drawn her blade and immediately dropped to her knee.

    ¡°Forgive me my liege, I did not mean to draw my blade¡± this prompted a chuckle.

    ¡°Oh, you did, and that is good, for it shows quick reflexes; even when surprised. A good trait for a Bushi¡±.

    A heavy silence fell upon the room, Yuki felt Lord Hatamoto¡¯s presence and a blush of shame rose within. Lord Hatamoto for his part stood idling, absent mindedly fidgeting with his pipe.

    ¡°I suppose you feel neglected, that you have already proven yourself and should be allowed to succeed your father already¡±.

    Shame blushed on Yuki¡¯s still face ¡°o-of course not my liege, I should not question your wisdom.¡±

    Lord Hatamoto sent a piercing glare. Like that of a master jeweller appraising a promising stone.

    ¡°Do not lie to me, I¡¯m far too old for that¡­ many would feel as you do. However, there is more to being a warrior than firing a bow or swinging a sword. On campaign and times of war a Bushi[4]</a> must be ready to engage in long trudges and toils to secure victory¡±

    Yuki nodded she was aware of this prepared of this. But why did she have to prove this when no other warrior of the clan had to. As if he perceived her very thoughts the Hatamoto continued.

    ¡°A journey through these mountains¡± he gestured out past the window ¡°down to the capital, is arduous at the best of times when spring has passed, and the summer fills the Hyuji range. In winter it is now perilous, danger stalks the lonely roads. And screaming wind of ice and sleet bombards it. This is more than a test, but a mission for which I am shorthanded. Complete this task and all doubts, even from one such as Goemon may turn to respect. Even if reluctant.¡±

    The words struck a note of recognition. And perhaps Lord Hatamoto was right, that even as a Bushi people like Goemon or his cronies would still look down on her. But if she overcame such a dangerous trial, she wouldn¡¯t just prove herself. She would have prestige¡­

    ¡°I understand, my liege, I will do my duty as a Warrior of the Clan¡± her face softening. The Hatamoto looked at her almost nostalgically, then he shook his head.

    ¡°Then understand that you must prepare, outside of my lands, a bed and dinner will not be guaranteed. You will need Heavy winter clothes; a horse will be ideal to preserve your strength¡­ and to run down the foreigner should he attempt escape.¡±

    ¡°My weapons and Armour will be necessary too. In case I encounter beasts and monsters in lonely places¡± she mused.

    ¡°Too heavy and it will slow you down, unless you intend the prisoner to carry it?¡±

    Yuki nodded; it would be impractical to wear it constantly. But she was loath to leave it, besides it would help wear down her ¡®companion¡¯.

    Then Lord Hatamoto gave a wry smile.

    ¡°There is one more matter, my second cousin lives in the capital as an official. I have not seen him in long years, if he still lives that is. I will send a latter down with you, for his eyes only.¡±

    He watched her for a moment thinking perhaps to say something else before suddenly leaving, silent footsteps leading away from the room. Yuki breathed a sigh of relief, stress and anger loosed like the tension after a bow shot. Turning away she looked outside to the pale winter noon.

    Outside bare cherry blossoms sat leafless in the courtyard, surrounded by frostiness. The steaming breath of hurrying servants and lovely ladies visible in the cold air. Then she gazed out past the slanted roofs of the ancient castle, past the venerable gatehouse, past the countless rice paddies barren but for icy water.

    And her gaze flew past even that, following the land up and up, past bare trees and dull grasses. Higher and higher over frozen ponds and bright mountain shrines, following the winding road as it ascended. Then the white caps visible through wreaths of grey clouds, snow falling ceaselessly.

    Yuki shivered before returning to polishing her blade.

    ¡­

    Upstairs in a guarded room, or more accurately a bare cell. A ragged figure paced with desperate fervour. On the floor beneath were strange symbols scrawled hurriedly yet not haphazardly. Cryptic words and suggestive signs contained within near perfect circles.

    Worriedly its drawer stared at it, as if about to reconsider. His wild sandy hair framed blue sunken eyes. Then suddenly he shifted and went to the symbols, sitting down almost reverently tracing it with his fingers. Over and over, all the while muttering gibberish under his breath. His brows furrowed and a bead of sweat slowly crawled down his face, breathing became ragged and each movement more laboured.

    Then shaking he plunged his free hand into the ragged remains of a pocket and drew out a copper band. Plain and unadorned yet shining with fresh polish.

    Slowly he dangled it from his fingers over the symbols, then dropping it precisely in the centre. All the while a faint light began to shine in the dark room, not neither window nor torch, but seemingly from the symbol itself, growing and intensifying with every passing second. With every motion of the man¡¯s finger the dim light grew. Reflecting in his glassy eyes that gazed not on the symbol but past it to some far horizon.

    Then with a final shuddering spasm he clasped the ring, and the shadows danced as the symbol seemingly, blindingly, burnt a bright blue.

    The room was still. Sunlight from outside trickled in, a shaft revealing a glinting ring. But now it was adorned with symbols, complex yet clear. Stooping over it the prisoner plucked it from the floor, his cracked lips breaking into a satisfied smile. Where the symbol on the floor had been was now merely a patch of scorched stone.

    ¡­

    Yuki looked at her reflection. She combed her white hair down, checked her appearance and with a furrowed brow went back to combing. She was practically ready; the provisions had been gathered and two horses saddled. A stout pony and her personal stallion, the stallion had been named Tabi for the white markings that spread down from his ankles to his hooves. He was stout and swift and not easily startled.

    She¡¯d said goodbye to her hunting hounds she hoped they¡¯d understand her absence, and knew they¡¯d wait for her even if she never returned. Glancing to the corner of her room she spied her weapons leaning against the wall with silent menace. She¡¯d doubled her practice hours, but still¡­

    The thought of being alone in the wild and some manner of demon or beast bearing down on her, sent a chill down her spine.

    She stared into her reflection¡¯s pale blue eyes. What truly scared her was leaving, and what if it didn¡¯t go well? The question horrified her, what if her horse threw her off before she even started, or something fell of the packhorse, or if it began raining?

    Her appearance had to be perfect. She smoothed out her thick blue haramake[5]</a> for what felt like the 100<sup>th</sup> time. Presentation was key. If she were to die on the road did, she want the last memory of her to be of a scared slovenly girl? Maybe she needed a little makeup? Something to bring out her cheeks, or to brighten her lips? A touch-up to remove those little imperfections that niggled at her now and then.

    She stared at herself for a good minute before shaking her head. No this would do. She couldn¡¯t keep them waiting. Turning away she picked up her bag, carefully packed with her most private belongings. She holstered her weapons. Inspecting the strapping as she did, giving a firm tug to ensure they were fixed.

    She opened the partition to meet a grey faced retainer who bowed swiftly before turning down the corridor. Yuki followed. She passed through a short main corridor, as familiar to her as her own hand before coming to the courtyard.

    The barren cherry blossom sacred to her clan stood mournfully over the procession, several retainers and lesser servants busying themselves with final checks fixing the saddles and packs for the horses, Socks stamped the ground impatiently while his brown coat was brushed. It would be his last brushing for a while. Below the tree stood a shrine maiden, giving prayer for safe passage to the mountain gods.

    Her father was the first to greet her, embracing her tightly.

    ¡°I just want to let you know how incredibly proud I am of you¡± he said sobbing into her shoulder.

    ¡°Father¡­¡± Yuki said with a blush ¡°I won¡¯t be gone for long, I¡¯ll come back, and I¡¯ll be a warrior just like you are.¡± Tears welled up in her eyes.

    Even as she said this the magnitude of her journey sank in; she had never left her clan¡¯s lands before. And such a long journey always had its risks, she might not see him for years. Maybe ever.

    A callous laugh broke this train of thought. Goemon came sauntering in behind Lord Hatamoto, besides him was an unfamiliar figure. It took her a moment to realise this was the Castaway whom she was to escort.

    He was considerably cleaner than when they had last met and clothed in a thick kimono with a grey haori. However, he was still strange in appearance. Tall and pale with yellowish hair which was now bound into a ponytail. Yet, his boyish face had a look of cunning about it. His eyes darted side to side, and his body tensed and untensed as if ready to bolt. It was a look she could recognise. That of a fox caught in a trap.

    Then Lord Hatamoto gave Goemon a stern look before addressing the assembly.

    ¡°The weather is good. I¡¯m glad. Since when it is bad it gives my old joints such issues.¡± A retainer came up and handed him his pipe and taking a long drag he started again.

    ¡°Yuki ¡­ as a member of the Ryuji clan you have volunteered to take this castaway to the capital. This foreigner is a clear omen. And only the imperial diviners can tell us what he means, what he means, what he could mean, may mean little or much. Yet I would rather know, and we have always needed more presence in the emperor¡¯s court. So, Yuki, you will, in the depth of winter, travel the length Hanyyen to do this most important duty for the clan. And if completed successfully, you will honour your father¡¯s name, and be recognized as a warrior of the Ryuji clan.¡±

    Pride swelled in her chest, and her resolve hardened. This would be difficult, but her ascension would be all the sweeter. And maybe even Goemon would start to show her some respect?

    Lord Hatamoto took a deep breath from his pipe as he concluded his speech and stroked his beard meaningfully. Took a glance at the sky and muttered.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m not getting any younger, you might as well go before it starts raining¡±. With the pomp and circumstance concluded, the assemblage busied themselves with the last of their duties. Goemon however approached Yuki dragging the castaway behind him.

    ¡°Well, well, well, I was hoping you¡¯d quit by now. Our clan needs capable Bushi, not the daughters of cripples¡± he said casting a disdainful gaze to Yuki¡¯s father.

    Yuki instinctively took a step towards Goemon, though she quickly felt her father¡¯s hand around her clenched fist.

    ¡°Oh well I¡¯m sure the mountains will weed out any weakness, I doubt you¡¯ll be found till spring¡±.

    Yuki forced a smile.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure I¡¯ll be back by then, certainly before you finish your etiquette classes¡± the two stared angrily at each other. Then suddenly Goemon thrust a rope into her hands.

    ¡°Hold onto it tightly, succeed and I might keep you around¡± she heard him snarl. Yuki¡¯s eyes watched Goemon as he stomped back to his grandfather. Then back to the thread following it back to its source, a bind around the foreigner¡¯s neck. A leash. Tugging It sharply she dragged him closer, he stumbled closer. She looked him in the eyes, Goemon was right at least on this. She needed to always keep her eyes on him.

    She looked out to the gate, the long road ahead and the uncertain future that awaited her. Then to her father, his familiar scars and kind face. Mournfully she hugged him one last time. And steeling herself mounted Tabi and started him at a walk. Her prisoner, and now travel companion for the foreseeable future following with bound hands. Behind him the packhorse laden with the armour, the tent, equipment and supplies they would need.

    Exiting the castle, she started down a long mountain path that curled spiralled to the valley below. Glancing back, she watched as the body of the mountain obscured the gatehouse. Then the outer towers. And finally, the great peaked roof of the great keep disappearing behind.

    Now alone, she let a tear fall.

    [1]</a> A yumi is the traditional weapon of the warrior class, their construction can take an entire year to complete and developing the muscles to use one can almost a decade.

    [2]</a> A katana is a slightly curved blade used as a side-arm by the warrior class.

    [3]</a> A stringed instrument commonly found across Hanyyen.

    [4]</a> Bushi is the name of the warrior class who fight as elite horse archers in return for land grants.

    [5]</a> Unisex skirts traditionally worn by Bushi and Shrine Maidens.

    [6]Haori are overcoats worn over kimono''s in cold weather.

 Chapter 1

    Rain lashed down all about her, hammering the ground into muck. Rivers forming by her feet. Yuki Gritted her teeth as cold wind tore through her soaked garments, her eyes peering through the grey world.

    The patty fields about her had swollen, and now threatened to consume the dirt road. She couldn¡¯t believe her luck; it had been grey as she descended the mountains. Yet nothing indicated rain, but the moment she had reached the valley it had begun to drizzle. Then to pour, and now as she left the wooded feet of her mountain home and onto open farmland. The heavens had chosen that exact moment to unleash a deluge.

    Tabi walked stubbornly through the mucky water, the donkey likewise didn¡¯t seem bothered in the least. Yuki glanced behind to her ¡®escort¡¯, trudging miserably through the mud, face bowed low, arm shielding it from the rain.

    She felt a pang of pity, but a fresh gust of ice water doused such notions. He was probably the biggest threat to her, likely some Wildman or pirate. She couldn¡¯t let her guard down. Not for one second.

    She set her eyes on the strait dirt road, her hand gripped the lead. Strangling all resistance.

    However, she couldn¡¯t block out the weather for long. It is said that one who is cold and dry can get warm. Someone who is warm and wet can get dry. But someone who is wet and cold is pneumonia waiting to happen.

    And it wasn¡¯t long before the burning cold in her fingers, and shuddering shivers along her spine. Became almost unbearable. She gritted her teeth; this was just part this test. A true warrior would shoulder any burden she told herself. She refused to let this weakness show.

    Something splashed besides her, eyes darting she saw the foreigner close in. His savage eyes accentuated by long exotic hair. She brought Tabi to an immediate halt, her sword drawn in less than a breath. Lightning struck in the distance it¡¯s flash reflected in the blade held high as Yuki prepared to strike.

    Then his lips moved

    ¡°T-there¡¯s a house in the distance¡± he said. Plainly and a little clumsily but spoke he did. Yuki blinked and sheathed her sword.

    ¡°You can talk?¡±

    ¡°Clearly! But there¡¯s a house that way!¡± he gestured in the grey distance. Turning her head Yuki Peered across the flooded rice fields, there a shadow and a small light. Orange as a distant flame. She clenched her teeth.

    ¡°We¡¯ll travel till we reach Nakamura Temple! Then we can rest¡± she insisted, the castaway responded in disbelief.

    ¡°Do you want us to get pneumonia, my teeth are chattering and your shivering, and that¡¯s if we don¡¯t get hit by lightning¡±. A faraway rumble sounded in agreement.

    Yuki shook her head.

    ¡°Fine!¡± she growled shielding her eyes she stared at the shadow, making out the figure of a little hut. And leading towards them the faint tracing of a dirt road slowly sinking under the rising water levels.

    ¡­

    Shoving open the door Yuki charged out of the cold and wet. The room was dark and shabby, filled with smoke and the smell of sake. Torches lit the bar dimly illuminating a crooked counter manned by a crooked nosed barkeep. Grim individuals turned to cast suspicious glares at the new arrivals, seedy and rattish men smoked their pipes. Watching with the curiosity of vultures.

    Yuki stomped in followed by her captive, both dripping as they approached the bar. Slamming her hand down she met the barkeeps eyes.

    ¡°I need a room, and my horses need some board, food too if you would¡±.

    The Barman raised his eyebrow.

    ¡°that¡¯ll be 5 Mon you little brat¡±.

    Yuki stared taken aback ¡°I¡¯m sorry?¡± she said tersely.

    ¡°This is a tavern, not a daycare, now pay up or I¡¯ll throw you back out.¡±

    Yuki¡¯s hair pricked up ¡°You don¡¯t seem to understand, I¡¯m a Warrior of the Ryuji clan¡± this elicited a deep laugh from the large man.

    ¡°As if, you look more like a Hyuji savage to me!¡± he said mockingly,

    Looking like thunder Yuki glared at the Barkeep, how dare he. A mere peasant, a servant of her lord dare disobeys a warrior of the Ryuji clan. Her hand hovered to her sword; he clearly hadn¡¯t seen it. She would prove her status to him. And take what was due.

    Then she felt a hand close about her arm

    ¡°My good sir, would you forgive my friend¡¯s rudeness. We¡¯re travelling pilgrims and we¡¯re hoping for a place to stay. Such as this¡­¡± he gestured to the rancid shack around them ¡°well-kept and charming place¡± he said with a winning smile.

    Yuki sent him a poisonous glare, she didn¡¯t trust him, nor his newfound ability to speak. But she held her tongue.

    ¡°Why are your hands bound¡± the barkeep said with suspicion.

    ¡°Oh, well it¡¯s an act of penitence. I¡¯m certain god will bless you with good fortune if you shelter us for the night¡± he said. The barman considered this for a while.

    ¡°Alright then, I¡¯ll give you a guest room for the night.¡± He gestured, Hurriedly Yuki and Alexander climbed a flight of stairs following the stable boy to a crooked doorway. Stomping in Yuki slammed the door behind her and her companion. A large clang echoing throughout the shabby pub.

    Down below however the hooked nose barkeeper barked to his stable hand.

    ¡°Alright you dolt, what do they have in their packs?¡± he said interrogatingly.

    ¡°I-I checked their saddlebags, a-and they have a l-lot of equipment? Like pots and pans, and c-camping gear¡± the bowlegged boy said nervously.

    ¡°Money, valuables? They¡¯ll be paying their rent one way or another¡± he muttered darkly to himself. He hadn¡¯t missed the sword on that girl, if she wanted to play games, he¡¯d just have to take his due himself.

    ¡°I-I N-no, she must have kept that in her personal p-pack. B-bb-but I saw something even better¡±.

    ¡°Oh? Then get to it or will you be stammering till nightfall?¡±

    The boy nodded before hurriedly continuing ¡°A-a-a-a-armour I-I s-saw a-armour¡± he said, his eyes darting side to side. The barkeep looked down at him, Armour? So, she hadn¡¯t been lying. This wasn¡¯t just some little girl playing with her daddies¡¯ sword.

    A raspy voice coughed from a darkened corner,

    ¡°So, the little brat wasn¡¯t lying, how bout¡¯s we make a quick buck while we have the chance. Her daddy¡¯s gonna pay a pretty penny to make sure his little girls safe¡± an especially ugly man said. His face was hard like sharpened flint. Marred with several scars, none of which seemed to have healed correctly.

    The barkeep thought for a second, he¡¯d never liked the cold. And if they played their cards right, they could get a nice little ransom. Even divided among the boys he could have just enough to set up shop far, far away. Maybe a little stall in the capital, or a small beach property down in Yayoi. He could hear the gentle waves already. And his mind eye imagined white sands, tanned girls, and a warm shining sun.

    ¡°Alright! tonight, grab your boys, I¡¯ll give you the keys to make it nice and easy¡± he said, then he paused thinking for a second.

    ¡°Boy! Go and get a nice hot bath for our guests¡± he smiled greedily; this would be like taking candy from a baby.

    ¡­

    Yuki threw her soaking baggage to the ground, casting an angry glare at her mysterious companion who ignored her as he opened the window.

    ¡°Of course, it stops raining when we get inside¡­ oh hey stables¡± he said glancing down.

    ¡°Explain yourself right now!¡± she yelled; he spun back around startled.

    ¡°For what getting us a room for free? When you were about to just stab him¡±. He said fishing his hands into the pack he threw a dry rag to Yuki; the bindings made the throw weak and clumsy. So, the rag flopped unceremoniously at her feet.

    ¡°Not that! You can talk, how?¡±

    ¡°By moving my lips¡±.

    ¡°Give me a straight answer¡±.

    ¡°Listen I¡¯ve been here nearly a month, and I¡¯m quite the polyglot. I¡¯m a fast learner when it comes to language¡±.

    Yuki narrowed her eyes that claim didn¡¯t nearly satisfy her. However, a more pressing issue was on her mind.

    ¡°How dare you speak on my account! I am a Bushi of the Ryuji clan! You should show me the respect I deserve¡± she demanded. The idea disgusted her, the peasantry was meant to serve like the emperor intended. Some foreigner ignoring the natural hierarchy like that¡­ it was a slap in the face!

    ¡°Well, I¡¯d think a squire like yourself would have better etiquette¡± he said chidingly, for which he got a swift kick to the abdomen.

    ¡°Next time, you¡¯ll speak when I tell you, I can bear that at least¡± she said to the crumpled figure on the ground. Groaning in pain he pushed himself up.

    ¡°Duly noted, it¡¯s nice to meet you too, names Alexander¡± he said putting out his hand. Forcing a smile as he clutched his side.

    ¡°None of your business¡± she said Knocking aside his hand.

    Turning away from him she picked up her sword and began inspecting it, she sighed it would need to be dried and oiled again. Going to her bag she pulled out her maintenance kit.

    With her back to the corner, she dried her blade, the reflection of the torchlight gleaming brightly in the gloom. Her eyes never left Alexander; he looked innocent enough. Which was all the more insidious, the moment she let her guard down he would ditch. In the dead of night cutting his bonds, stealing her horse, and running to the edges of Hanyyen. She¡¯d never see him again and she¡¯d never become a true Bushi.

    So, like a hawk she watched Alexander. When he clumsily placed a blanket over himself. She was watching. When he hummed out of tune she was listening. When he let off a fart, she was unfortunately smelling. He shifted uncomfortably under her intense gaze, fidgeting with the little copper ring about his finger. Yuki blinked, noticing it reflect the lantern light, where had he gotten that? Had he arrived with it... surely the guards would have searched him thoroughly. And she doubted they would let him keep it.Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators!

    Her train of thought was broken by a knocking at the door.

    ¡°enter¡± she bade.

    Inside came the young stable hand, hefting a large tub.

    ¡°My master decided to send up a bath to thank you for your blessings, besides we want you to give a good word to the Kami for us¡± he said woodenly. Eyes drawn to Yuki¡¯s sword; Yuki frowned for a second the strokes of her rubbing increasing as she thought.

    ¡°Alexander you should go in I¡¯m clean enough¡± she said. A tense silence fell on the room, the stable hand bowed before leaving. He soon returned to the simple room dragging up bucketloads of hot water, dumping them into the tub and repeating till it was full of steaming bubbly water.

    Bowing the stable hand left the room, his eyes never leaving Yuki or her blade. Closing the door quietly he scurried downstairs to prepare their meal, a steaming hotpot that he was certain would get that crazy sword girl to calm down.

    Meanwhile Alexander eagerly stripped and slipped into the welcoming bath. Relaxing his muscles he sank into the suds, shooting a glance towards Yuki he asked.

    ¡°Do you have to stare at me? I¡¯m a bit naked right now¡±.

    Yuki paused in her polishing.

    ¡°Of course, I can¡¯t have you escape on me¡± she said before resuming.

    ¡°Why would I escape? Where would I go?¡± he said exasperated pausing before adding ¡°Although these ropes are starting to chafe a bit, could you take them off?¡±.

    ¡°As if¡± she said before resuming to polish her Katana. Watching she saw him soak into the suds; eyes closed in the bliss of steaming hot water, she envied him. But as if she would make herself so vulnerable as to bathe in front of him. Looking over to the clean set of clothing she furtively undressed and dried herself off. Quickly she donned a clean kimono while Alexander dozed off, ignorant of her activity.

    ¡­

    It was not long till both bath and board had been served, a delicious noodle broth devoured, and the cloudy sky overtaken by the night. The two now slept, Alexander curled on the tatami mat. And Yuki leaning against the wall.

    Outside 4 figures prepared in the darkness, a key glinted and slid into the lock. The door creaked open an inch, then it stopped. There was a shoving sound, banging and a cracking. A large block of furniture had been moved in front.

    Yuki¡¯s eyes snapped open, fixed on the door, she heard whispered cursing and then. Another round of banging against the door, the wardrobe wobbling dangerously.

    Springing to her feet she kicked Alexander.

    ¡°Ow, oh what¡¯s going on?¡± He said groggily,

    ¡°someone¡¯s trying to break in!¡± she hissed. Another thud smacked against the door shoving the wardrobe back an inch. Her mind raced; she didn¡¯t want to fight them here. This room was a small box, a cage, she would be trapped and overwhelmed. Then she glanced to the window

    ¡°You said our horses were right below us?¡± she said, a groggy Alexander nodded sleepily. Another shove knocked the wardrobe into a wobble. Snatching what she could Yuki dragged Alexander to the window. Throwing it open she could feel the cold night air, sobering in its chill. Grabbing her bag, she tossed it and her possessions out first. It landed plumply with a loud sound.

    Then dragging herself through she leveraged herself onto the lip of the roof, Alexander tentatively followed his bound hands fumbling and struggling to cling to the wooden tiles.

    ¡°Now we need to leverage ourselves down, its not too high¡± she said as the thudding and shoving of the door came to a frantic pace.

    ¡°I can¡¯t¡± he said holding up his bound wrists.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have a choice¡±.

    ¡°Then cut these¡± he urged, there was the sound of wood being hacked through. They had decided to grab an axe. Swiftly she brought out a knife and sawed through the ropes, franticly she cut and cut; the strands coming loose and finally freeing Alexanders Wrists.

    Lowering herself to her hands Yuki grabbed the edge of the roof, slowly lowering herself as far as possible. Then she let go, the drop was further than she had expected, and she stumbled back on her jarred legs. Barely stopping herself from tripping over as she made for their horses.

    Alexander quickly followed her, landing mostly on his ass. Up above there was the sound of crashing and splintering. And the inevitable confusion that followed.

    Quickly the two pounded across the stables finding their horses. Slapping saddle and pack onto them they led them out into the night. Looking back, she saw light issuing from the opening inn door, the lantern bearing stableboy scrambling to the stables. Yuki cursed; they needed more distance.

    ¡°Get on¡± she ordered Alexander, clambering up he righted himself just as she brought them to a trot. The pack horse struggling to keep up, as they drove themselves onwards into the unknown.

    ¡­

    The night turned to grey dawn as the two stumbled to a cop of trees, a mound dominated by a tall oak recently overturned perhaps the day before. However, several smaller trees still formed a closed canopy. Leading the horses within they found a small hollow behind which a stagnant pool had formed.

    Alexander unsaddled the horses while Yuki clambered up to the top of the mound. Their mounts began to drink greedily after their long journey and the pony especially, as overloaded as it had been, Yuki watched the distance through the gloom. Her fingers twitched at the slightest movement, the stirring of deer, the rustling of birds above. The snapping of a twig¡­

    Before she knew it her blade had left its sheath, her eyes followed its slight curve, the point nestled just below Alexanders chin. They watched each other silently for a moment, he had a hefty stick in his hand.

    ¡°What¡¯s that?¡± Yuki asked with suspicion and hostility.

    ¡°A walking stick, If I¡¯m going to be trekking through a mountain range, I figured I¡¯d grab one while I could¡± he leaned against it as if to demonstrate. Then changing the topic of conversation

    ¡°So, I take it they haven¡¯t followed us?¡± he asked hopefully,

    ¡°I don¡¯t know that for sure, even if they don¡¯t have horses they can still catch up when ours rest. This is your fault you know, if you hadn¡¯t suggested that unplanned stop, we¡¯d be safe and on our scheduled path!¡±

    ¡°Excuse me, but we¡¯d have a fever or Pneumonia if we kept on that path. And that¡¯s if a tree didn¡¯t fall on the road¡± he pointed to the overturned oak beside her. She glowered at him, his complete lack of respect for her was beginning to grate. Alexander turned to leave.

    ¡°Where do you think you¡¯re going?¡±

    ¡°To check on the horses¡±.

    ¡°No! Stay where I can see you!¡± Yuki barked. Alexander threw up his hands in exasperation

    ¡°Could you trust me the tiniest bit? I¡¯m not going to run, where would I? I don¡¯t even want to go home really, so why would I try and leave my only guide here?¡±

    Yuki said nothing. Instead pointing to the fallen Oaktree, Alexander reluctantly walked to it plopping down on the damp log.

    Yuki went back to watching, a thin mist had formed. But she still stared, they had left the rice fields long behind. This was pastureland filled with rough plants and scattered isolated clusters of trees. In the spring cattle would be brought out guarded by their shepherds, she sighed.

    This wasn¡¯t how she imagined it; she wasn¡¯t even off her clans¡¯ lands. She was meant to be riding stately to be received as a guest, not chased by brigands and thieves. She started to wonder how she would fair in the mountains¡­

    ¡°What¡¯s your name¡± she was suddenly brought out from her musings.

    ¡°Why do you care?¡± she asked her eyes darting between him and the fields below.

    ¡°Well, were going to be travelling for a while, aren¡¯t we? And I just think it would be easier for both of us if we got along, maybe knew a little more about each other. For example, I was a... uh a navigator on a ship, a big ship. It got blown off course, and a storm capsized us.¡±

    He gave Yuki an expectant look, she sighed ¡°I¡¯m Yuki Ryujin, a daughter of the Ryuji clan. When I bring you to the Capital, I¡¯ll be accepted as a warrior and bring honour to my household¡±. Her shoulders relaxed, slightly, as if a load had been taken off.

    A look of surprise passed over Alexanders face.

    ¡°You¡¯re a girl?¡±, Yuki shot him a glare, ¡°I mean yes, you¡¯re clearly a girl, and a very pretty one at that. I mean your white hair is very striking, it seems very rare here¡±. Alexander laughed nervously; Yuki rolled her eyes. She her face blushing with embarrassment.

    Turning back, she resumed her vigil, her eyes narrowed something below stirred. The gloom of dusk made it hard to see, but a shadow was moving. It was following the trail they used, it was too big to be a deer or wolf.

    She noticed more, following closely behind. Four in total heading directly towards them. There were no doubts in her mind who they were, though she¡¯d hoped they could¡¯ve had more time to rest the horses.

    ¡°Alexander, grab the horses, we need to go¡± she whispered, he darted his eyes down the slope and with a start rushed down splashing loudly in the brook.

    Yuki winced; they¡¯d definitely heard that. But she watched them, they were still a hundred yards off. If they slipped out with the horses, they could make a beeline for the forest.

    ¡°Y-Yuki, the horses aren¡¯t here¡± Alexander said, panic rising in voice. The shadows down below stopped one of them yelled something unintelligible and pointed a finger to the little wooded mound.

    Frantically she pulled out her bow, she didn¡¯t have the time to put her armour on. And even with a sword you can only kill so many before someone tackles you. However, she thought stringing her bow. Distance was its own kind of armour.

    Plucking an arrow from her quiver she drew back the bow, one of the shadows had already rushed forwards. She aimed by instinct and loosed an arrow, flying down it struck the first assailant, staggering he continued for several paces before falling. However, another soon came, rushing past his friend he was already only 30 yards away when she had shot another arrow.

    It hit him in the breast, but he continued up staggering to the foot of the mound, another arrow sprouted from his chest. He was a large man, Yuki recognised this was the barkeep from the inn. So, he had organised this all?

    He fell but a small man leapt over his corpse, fast and nimble he dashed up the slope. The gleam of steel in his hand, a short spear. Frantically he lunged forwards launching it as a javelin, Yuki¡¯s hands were already on her sword hilt.

    Stepping aside she simultaneously struck the missile letting it bounce harmlessly off the ground, the Ratty faced man however sprinted up. Leaping at her he savagely swung his cleaver of a blade, Yuki parried, knocking it aside before thrusting.

    There was the gruesome sound of metal on flesh, dancing back she raised her blade again, her opponent stumbled back but recovered. He wildly swung cutting only air, she stepped in and brought her katana down on his skull.

    A splatter of blood hit her cheek; she watched him fall. A sigh of relief left her lips, she¡¯d never fought a real fight. A fight for her life. Looking down she scanned for the last. But nothing, clearly, he had seen his friends fall and had ditched. It was understandable, unlike her they were only peasants, not warriors.

    A twig snapped behind her, Alexander must have found the horses.

    ¡°Took you long enough¡± she turned around only to see a rush of movement. A force knocked her to the ground, a familiar face twisted with hate filled her vision. The stable boy had pinned her, a knife in his hand. Somehow, she¡¯d caught his wrist.

    ¡°Die!¡± he spat in her face, his free hand closing about her neck; she reached for her sword. But it was just out of reach. Meanwhile he pushed the knife down, closer, and closer to her heart. His hand dug into her skin, she gasped for air. Desperate, desperate to throw him off. But. She. Just. Couldn¡¯t!

    Her Vision blurred catching a shadow rising above them. Then a crack sounded out, she felt the hit reverberate through the body of her assailant. The boy went limp, with a burst of strength she threw off the stable hand and struggled to her sword.

    Gasping for air she pointed it at his body, it was still. Looking up she saw Alexander standing over the corpse a sheepish look on his face. And a blood stained ¡®walking stick¡¯ in his hand.

    ¡°I-I found the horses, then I saw him trying to sneak in from the back, sorry if I was a little late¡±.

    Yuki rubbed her throat, she stared at him. Her face flushed with embarrassment.

    ¡°You saved my life, thanks¡± she wondered if she should¡¯ve just let him check the horses. Her eyes wandered to the lifeless body of the stableboy, someone who¡¯d fed her, who was her inferior in every way. Had come so close to killing her. A shiver ran down her spine.

    ¡­

    It was noon by the time they¡¯d reached the mountain. The sun was high in the sky and although the day was cold, it was filled with vibrant colours. Tall evergreen trees in all shades of verdant green enclosed the road on both sides. Ascending Yuki rode Tabi, followed by an obstinate pony on a rope. Finally, her companion with his walking stick bringing up the rear.

    The road finally began to level out looking back Yuki saw her clans¡¯ lands, a lovely valley cut across by a hundred small streams feeding into the patty fields that fed them all. Her eyes trailed up, her Clans castle resting on the mountain side. Ancient and imperious it commanded the valley, she almost thought she could hear the waves beyond it.

    The road began to dip, Yuki stared longingly at her home. She could remember the day her father taught her to shoot, the long hours she spent hunting from horseback. The cherry blossoms in spring falling on her hair. But soon it was obscured by the same road she was walking. She turned away and looked forwards, towards the future. Uncertainty and fear lay before her, yet somehow, she felt okay with that. For all the enemies she would have to face. She at least had one companion. She glanced towards Alexander; he smiled back at her.

    She looked back to the road, this foreigner certainly needed some etiquette training, and she would rather get some new rope to bind his hands with. But they were still a way from Nakamura temple, she could only hope they would reach it before nightfall.

    In the back of her mind, there was a niggling suspicion. This foreigner had learnt the complex and sophisticated tongue of Hanyyen all alone in a cell, there was something rotten about him; about how friendly he was. She let out a silent prayer to Lady Di to watch over her, she was sure this journey had much more in store for her.

 Chapter 2

    A Fog rolled over the mountain, the tall trees and low valleys cast in eerie grey shapes. Icy mist drew over the land like a blanket, covering it in frosty dew. This obscurant weather was the very sort that led lone travellers over crevices and ravines to their death. The road ever winding and treacherous was empty except for two shadows traversing along it.

    The first was a tall horse pounding the ground with its hooves and sounding ringing steps across the mountainside. The other was a stout pony following behind obediently. The owners of the horses were in many respects quite like their equine compatriots. The bold and proud Yuki, with her short white hair and dark icy eyes. Followed by a strange blond gentleman, held down by a hefty backpack.

    Alexander looked up to the sky, his eyes scanning the grey morass, the noon sun that had shone so brightly was now nowhere to be seen. Yet it was not dark, although he could feel the blackening of the world around him.

    ¡°It¡¯s starting to get dark¡± he suggested trotting to Yuki¡¯s side, she glanced to him then back to the road.

    ¡°We should have reached the temple by now¡± she muttered. She had set off two days ago from Ryuji castle, it was planned for her to reach Nakamura temple by the end of the first day. In fact, board and provisions had already been prepared. It was from there that the main road through the mountain range started.

    It had been her minimum requirement. But ever since the Inn she¡¯d lost her way, and now there was this damnable mist. She wanted a nice safe rest at the temple, dammit!

    She shook her head; this was no way for a warrior to react. Scolding herself. No if she couldn¡¯t handle such a short trek, she wouldn¡¯t ever handle a military campaign. Sighing she brought her horse to a stop.

    ¡°we¡¯ll rest here tonight¡± she said relenting, dismounting she led them off the path up from the road until a small clearing could be found. It wasn¡¯t dry, but neither of them expected it to be as they promptly made camp.

    ¡­

    The red coals of the fire smouldered in the dark, patches of white snow fell lightly dusting the hard ground. Yuki rolled in her soft furs; the millet porridge sat uncomfortably in her stomach. She shivered; her breath steamed out under the canopy of the tent. It was a small tarp held up by Alexanders walking stick and pegged down on three sides forming a small triangle open at the base. Through here a cold draft blew, Yuki tossed and turned before finally opening her eyes.

    Shivering she sat up, even though the deerskin bedding and her thick linen sleeping roll the cold ground was noticeable. Yuki hissed a curse, then fumbling looked for another coat to keep her warm.

    The tent was enough for two people, or at least it would be if half of it wasn¡¯t taken up by her arms and armour. Metal and bow sinew were complex and delicate, she¡¯d reasoned. It wouldn¡¯t do for anything to rusted or be stolen, besides last night was proof enough that she needed her weapons at hand. Her eyes adjusted slowly until finally she felt her hand over her warm Kimono. She hugged it close to her, feeling the soft fabric against her skin.

    She felt a twinge of guilt, Alexander had drawn the short straw. Being forced to reluctantly sleep outside placing his bedding as close to the fire as he dared. Yuki thought for a second, and slipping out of her sleeping bag went to the fire. It was a smouldering pile of charcoal hissing with each snowflake that landed inside. Socks and the pony sat around it, their large bodies acting as living windbreaks.

    However, the linen rolls that were supposed to hold Alexander were empty. Yuki stood there for a second looking at it. Her brain went stiff, and then a flurry of thoughts flew through her head. The strongest was anger, mainly towards herself.

    For being so stupid as to take his word, for letting him out of her sight, for thinking about how sad and cold he must be when he was now laughing at how easily he¡¯d duped her. Repressing a scream Yuki rushed back to the tent grabbing her sword, then dashing back hurriedly looking for any trace of a trail.

    The damnable snow was starting to fall thick now, soon it would obscure any footprints he could have left. Wasting no time she inspected the grass; it wasn¡¯t long till she had her clue. He didn¡¯t seem overly careful she thought looking at the disturbed grass. It was new. Maybe an hour at the most, if she followed now she would catch up with only a light jog.

    Springing down past the trail she wound through the trees, he had wandered up and down, almost at random. The excitement and panic sent a shiver through her, the snow forming in her hair. The fire was only just visible now through the dark sea of trees, unseen roots and branches snatched and grabbed at her. But a hole in the foliage was clear to her, someone had smashed through recently.

    Now almost blind she stumbled forward, tripping over an exposed root she caught herself on an aspen. Looking up from the trail she saw something that defied all her worldly experience. Before her was a clearing, but it was full of a blue light. It wasn¡¯t bright, any true fire outshone it. But it came not from one source but all around only absent in one spot. There a single figure stood casting no shadow, bent crooked over the ground she heard a raspy voice gibbering a language she couldn¡¯t grasp. She could feel a tension, a pressure emanating from within the light. And realised the pale glow was growing in strength, the gibbering becoming louder and more pained.

    It grew and grew, frightfully bright and unnatural, it illuminated the glade. The figure stood up; Yuki screwed up her eyes. And realised with a shock the source was not some demon, but Alexander.

    He fumbled briefly with his hands before pulling out a slip of paper, in the blue light she could make out strange symbols scrawled upon it. shining unnaturally in the mage light. He paused his incantation; the light was now as bright as a bonfire but stable and still like daylight.

    Then the parchment was dropped, and the glade went dark, Yuki blinked wondering if she had let out a gasp. Before turning and running back to her tent, to the normalcy of the campfire, to the comfort of sleep and dreams.

    ¡­

    Dawn rolled around and Yuki crawled out of her tent, eyes heavy with bags. Her sleep had been disturbed with blue light and cryptic whisperings. Alexander meanwhile had restarted the fire with some dry wood and was busily cooking a porridge of millet. Yuki looked around, the heavy fog had remained and now a fine dusting of white snow coated the ground.

    Everything however, seemed completely normal. No blue fire, no strange incantations. And Alexander although looking tired seemed rather chipper for someone who had slept outside in the cold.

    ¡°Good morning¡± he said without turning ¡°did you sleep well?¡±, Yuki shivered slightly in the crisp morning air.

    ¡°Perfectly¡± she muttered looking around for her fur Kimono.

    ¡°Yea it was a bit chilly last night, had to restart the fire a few times. But thanks for the Kimono anyways it was very insulating, sorry if it left you a little chilly¡±. Yuki¡¯s head swivelled to Alexander, watching him pull out the blue overcoat.

    So, it hadn¡¯t been a dream? Yuki realised a cold chill creeping up her spine. Alexander handed it to her. snatching it from him she looked at his fingers. On one was a copper band, when did the foreigner get a ring?

    Locking eyes, she met his smile with a glare before turning her back on him.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be packing away our belongings, we¡¯re burning daylight and are already late. I want to be at the temple before sundown.¡±

    Shrugging he returned to the pot,

    ¡°You do that, I¡¯ll get food ready. You¡¯re not you when you¡¯re hungry¡± he chuckled. Yuki rolled her eyes,

    ¡°Don¡¯t pretend to know me foreigner¡± she said sharply. Alexander returned the look with one of confusion and annoyance. He made to retort but thinking better of it returned to his cooking pot.

    Turning to their luggage she rooted around, inside she found the snuff box which consisted of small slips of dry paper and tinder. Except now it was just tinder, the paper had been removed confirming her suspicions; he had taken the parchment and used it the night before.

    But why? Was the thought that ran through her head as she returned to the fire. What had been the purpose of his ritual?

    Tentatively she sat down next to him, ladling some of the porridge into a bowl. Blowing on it she watched from the side of eyes. What had Alexander been doing last night. Disappearing into the middle of the night? a blue light without any source or heat? a ring he shouldn¡¯t have? Was he, as Goemon claimed, some Yokai in human guise? Or a sorcerer with foul intent? Was this meal some kind of Poison to take her out of the picture?

    These questions and more rang through her head as she watched Alexander take the first sip of porridge, cautiously she copied. At least she could trust he wouldn¡¯t poison himself as well.

    The hot liquid poured down her throat and into her empty stomach, she would have to eat well, but lightly. It would be no good feeling bloated now; they needed to find directions at this rate. She just hoped they weren¡¯t too lost.

    Alexander, however, was wolfing down his food, draining it like a man starved for a week. Yuki stared with slight disgust and began wondering if he had enchanted himself to be able to eat without breathing.

    Shaking her head, she finished her bowl; she would need to be cautious. Clearly, he had lied about his true identity and likely purpose, she felt a tinge of betrayal; even if she had barely known him the deception robbed her of even this small source of companionship.

    ¡­

    Yuki rode down the mountain road, she kept Socks at a walk. Trotting occasionally before halting for Alexander and the mule to catch up. She felt impatient, she was already behind schedule, what kind of impression would the clan have if she travelled too slow?

    Looking back, she cast a suspicious glance towards Alexander leaning on the walking stick as he followed behind. Wearing a rather blank and impassive smile that neither revealed nor hid. She didn¡¯t trust it, clearly, he was a user of the dark arts. She would put him back on his leash when they reached the temple, she decided.

    Looking back ahead she saw a dip in the road and then built almost into the mountainside a little cottage. It was ramshackle and crooked at an odd angle yet still smoke poured through the chimney. It was occupied.

    Spurring Socks on she cantered down with a yell, the crashing hooves echoed off the road pounding down in front of the peasant hut. Mustering as much authority into her voice as possible Yuki commanded the occupants to open the door.

    A minute later the shuffling of feet approached, and the door was opened revealing a wizened old woman. Her eyes scanned Yuki, her horse, and then the heavy armour with its signature blue and white patterns.

    Quickly the peasant woman fell to her knees whimpering softly.

    ¡°Oh, forgive my lateness oh great Ryujin, I¡¯m only an old woman. I can¡¯t pay my taxes yet; my son is still out fishing- ¡°

    ¡°I¡¯m here for directions peon, where¡¯s the Nakamura temple?¡± she demanded ignoring the hags¡¯ pleas. The old woman shuffled to her feet and with a shaking hand pointed.

    ¡°Follow the road it¡¯s on the other side of the mountain but be careful the way is perilous this time of year¡±. Yuki spurred Socks to a trot leaving the old cottage behind. Alexander followed hurriedly jogging up behind.

    ¡°Hold up you could thank the poor old thing¡± he said with disapproval.

    ¡°Thank her? She knew her place, she was serving me as she was meant to. Besides we don¡¯t have time to waste on frivolities, I want to be at the temple before nightfall¡± she glared at him. Did this foreigner have no sense of social class? What did this old woman mean to him?

    Turning away she increased her pace; she wanted some distance between them. Between her and that ring.

    They travelled at a brisk rate, passing up and down many slopes and crevices. The land passed them by like a rolling curtain. Lonely valleys and steep cliffs kept them company, occasionally a waterfall spraying frozen water upon the rocks. Seldom stopping and only then for a cold snack of pressed rice wrapped in seaweed.

    Slowly the path rose and rose, ascending slowly and with each step the cold crowded down more and more upon them, soon snowflakes began to fall. Uncontrollable they shivered. And then the Snowflakes fell like hail covering them as they travelled. Soon the visibility decreased, and their world became that of white rain falling everything about them.

    Yuki pushed Socks onwards, the cold a burning chill across her fingers. The pain throbbed with each twitch and movement of the reigns. Blinding snow struck Yuki¡¯s eyes, she shivered, she hadn¡¯t ever felt such all-encompassing pain before. But they had to make it to the Nakamura temple.Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions.

    However, even as the snow piled onto the ground around them there was no sign nor sight of Nakamura temple. And the short winter day quickly began to wane, the dim cloud veiled sunlight fading with every passing hour.

    In the distance wolf howls echoed off in the mountainsides, a shiver of fear passed over Yuki.

    ¡°They sound far off¡± Alexander said hopefully. Yuki shook her head; wolves were wily creatures. Responsible for many attacks, especially on lone travellers in the dead of winter. If they didn¡¯t reach the temple by nightfall, well then foreign sorcerers wouldn¡¯t be her only concern.

    The snowfall continued unabated even past midday, dancing on icy winds that pierced like daggers even through Yuki¡¯s thick armour. Breathing on her finger she tried to flex some feeling back into them. Looking behind her she saw Alexander trudging from behind, shivering uncontrollably as the chill breeze whispered past him.

    Returning her eyes to the road ahead, Yuki strained her eyes to peer past the wall of snowflakes. Having become seemingly impenetrable in the increasing gloom. Stopping Socks, she jumped off,

    ¡°Are we having a break?¡± Alexander wheezed out hopefully. Yuki glared at him.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t you hear those wolves? We need to reach the temple before nightfall or those howls you think are far off might get a lot closer.¡± She scolded as she headed to the pony behind him. The pack pony unperturbed by the mountain cold had begun foraging in the grass the minute it stopped moving.

    Opening its pack Yuki rummaged through the supplies.

    ¡°What are you looking for?¡± Alexander asked.

    ¡°it¡¯s getting dark, and we need light¡± she said her roaming hand failing to find the faggot she¡¯d placed inside.

    ¡°Ah, sorry but it¡¯s in my pack¡± he said dumping it on the ground, reaching inside he pulled out the bundle of sticks. A flicker of annoyance crossed Yuki¡¯s face. Here he was moving everything, but what was his aim? What was his true goal?

    Snatching them out from his hand she pulled out a reasonably sized stick and tied some tinder to its end. Bringing out her flint and steel, she ran them across each other. Sending showers of sparks onto the makeshift torch. After a minute one of the embers caught the tinder and glowing red it began to light, gently nursing the flame it grew bright as the sun dimmed.

    Triumphantly Yuki held the fiery brand aloft as she continued to lead Socks along the path, the path ahead illuminated by the ruddy glow. Her sandals sunk into the snow, the creaking crunch of ice crystals as she stomped forwards. The sun continued to set, and the sky darkened, soon only the firelight illuminated the path ahead.

    Images flickered in the darkness as her mind began to play tricks, she shook the illusion off and glanced back to her escort. He was visibly shivering, even under his heavy overcoat, at least this told her that his magic didn¡¯t make him immune to the cold.

    Again, questions formed in her mind, about the ritual from last mind and the missing slips of paper; she glanced around half expecting to see some blue fire emerge in the distance. But all she saw was the pitch black of night surrounding her. In the distance the howl of wolves came again, Yuki could feel Socks tremble at the sound, but to her relief it sounded more distant than previously.

    She urged herself on, her feet had become as numb to the cold as her fingers, but she trudged through the snow which had piled almost up to a foot. Again, she glanced back at Alexander, he was lagging, clearly, he was trying to secret away to perform some dark rite she reasoned.

    She wondered whether to wait, but Socks had made the decision for her, suddenly refusing to move. Yuki stared at her horse, and then in frustration kicked the snow, the white clod sparkled in the torch before arcing down into the void.

    Staring after it she waved her torch into the darkness, and with horror saw that the road suddenly stopped. The path she was taking dropped away into nothingness, stepping back she shook her head.

    ¡°Hey Alex¡± she shouted back, he looked up his haggard face chattering.

    ¡°w-ww-what?¡± he asked.

    ¡°The roads dropped away into a cliff; we can¡¯t go any further, were going back and finding another way around the mountain¡± she said watching her breath stream out into the air.

    He looked at her, horror dawning on his face ¡°In this weather? No! We¡¯ll freeze to death before we get anywhere.¡±

    ¡°You dare refuse an order from me?!¡± she shouted ¡°We were expected days ago! We must reach the temple before-¡°

    ¡°Before what!¡± he shouted back cutting her off ¡°Before nightfall, before we get lost before we freeze to death? We need to make camp, light a fire, find shelter or we¡¯ll never reach the temple!¡± he said.

    Yuki stared at him for a moment, then back towards the cliff edge, that was now a swirling eddy of falling snow. She sighed ¡°Fine! We¡¯ll make camp, but if I see you doing anything suspicious, and I do mean anything. Then I¡¯m throwing you off the cliff edge.¡± She said pointing to it and watching his face. He had planned this, clearly, she¡¯d known exactly where she was going until he cast that spell. That must have been his aim, to get her lost and abandon her in the mountains.

    She wouldn¡¯t allow that.

    Feverishly they looked for a place away from the wind, finding a small alcove they set up the tarp and again propped it up with the walking stick to create a makeshift tent. While Yuki did this Alexander had dumped the remainder of their firewood into a pile, gathering the horses to either side of it to protect any fire they hoped to make from the wind.

    Yuki rolled out her sleeping skin, the water-proof deer hide being placed on the ground, and layer after layer blanket placed on top. She put her bow and quiver in the back, strung just in case. She¡¯d always been sensible enough to not camp this high up in such cold conditions, would she wake up tomorrow? The fears she¡¯d ignored climbing so far through the mountains now began to consume her, would she freeze? Would wolves devour her in her sleep? Her mind raced distractedly until she noticed a blue flash in the corner of her eye.

    She spun around searching for its source, her eyes landing on the bonfire that was crackling into life. The foreigner warmed his hands beside it, his fingers were crimson from mild frostbite, and entwined in them were some slips of paper.

    ¡°You what did you do?¡± Yuki said her eyes narrowing, she hadn¡¯t heard the telltale scraping of flint and steel.

    ¡°I used some tinder to start a fire¡± Alexander said wincing in pain as he thawed himself.

    ¡°That was quick I didn¡¯t notice you building it up¡± she said almost casually, she¡¯d considered it a good hour of work to get a fire started in these conditions. And he¡¯d seemingly been at it for less than a minute.

    He shrugged ¡°sailor¡¯s secret¡± he said glancing down at the tent ¡°So can I sit beside you?¡±.

    Yuki stared at him as if he¡¯d suggested she fly ¡°Of course not, you have your own sleeping roll, you can use that¡± she said pointing to one of the horse¡¯s saddle-pack.

    ¡°But mines not waterproof! And don¡¯t expect me to sleep outside again, I¡¯d die in this weather.¡± He said locking eyes with her, Yuki stared at him, who did this foreigner think he was? She asked herself, was he oblivious to why a woman of high standing wouldn¡¯t want to share a tent with a strange man? Let alone some insidious sorcerer.

    But then again, she considered, she couldn¡¯t afford him dying, not until she completed her duties to her lord. Sighing she swallowed her pride and shame.

    ¡°Fine! We¡¯ll share the tent, but if you do anything I¡¯ll ¡°.

    ¡°Throw me off a cliff?¡± he asked.

    She scowled at him, unwilling to confirm his suggestion. Quietly he unpacked his own sleeping role and shunted it into the tent, planting himself next to her, leaning forwards to the fire for warmth.

    Yuki watched him in silence, shivering quietly as she warmed, staring into the burning wood as it cracked and splintered; she wondered what her father was doing. She hoped he wasn¡¯t worrying too much, he was probably staring at the mountain path right now, wishing her good luck and safe travel.

    ¡°So why are you doing this?¡± she heard her travel companion say.

    ¡°Doing what?¡± she could feel the warmth of the fire beat against her brows, she could almost imagine it was summer.

    ¡°I mean why are you going on such a dangerous journey? I do not see why you want to get me to the capital so bad¡± he said feeding another log into the fire.

    ¡°Because my lord has bid me to take you, I¡¯m a Warrior of the Ryuji clan if he orders me, I shall carry it out without question¡± she responded automatically.

    ¡°But why you specifically, there was that rude fellow, I am certain they would like him to be gone for a while¡±

    ¡°You mean Goemon, no they couldn¡¯t risk the heir to the clan; besides he¡¯d die from alcohol withdrawal if he went a week without sake¡± she said watching the log char in the flame.

    ¡°Does he not have a brother or a sister or a cousin¡± he asked.

    Yuki fidgeted in her seat ¡°ah yes, he does actually¡± she said glancing out to the snowy darkness.

    ¡°Then why didn¡¯t they send them? Where they an even worse drunkard?¡± he asked, one of the larger logs split apart.

    ¡°I¡¯m hardly a drunkard!¡± Yuki snapped ¡°But yes we¡¯re cousins¡± she said turning to him.

    ¡°Oh, so you¡¯re the lords¡­ daughter?¡±

    ¡°Granddaughter, but yes that is my standing in the clan, my father is the younger son of Lord Hatamoto¡­ Goemon¡¯s was the older¡±.

    ¡°Was?¡±

    ¡°Yea, was, he was the eldest till he was slain by a demon. My own father barely survived the encounter¡­ it¡¯s how he lost his arm. I think that¡¯s when Goemon started drinking.¡± She said talking to herself.

    They stared at the campfire silently for a while.

    ¡°So why were you sent to take me to the capital?¡±

    ¡°Because my lord believes you are an omen and that the court diviners will be able to determine what kind¡­ once I do this, I will have proved myself a warrior.¡±

    ¡°Do you want to become a warrior that bad? I¡¯m rather surprised you aren¡¯t already married.¡±

    Yuki stared at the fire for a couple seconds.

    ¡°What?¡± she said staring at him interrogatingly.

    ¡°Well, you are rather pretty so I figured you would d be married already¡± he said looking at everywhere except her.

    ¡°My father does say I look a lot like my mother did¡± she muttered to herself, fiddling with her hair. The defining trait of the Hyuji people that lived in these mountains.

    ¡°Then she must be rather lovely¡±.

    Yuki thought back to the paintings, that were all that remained of her mother, that were the closest she¡¯d come to seeing her.

    ¡°Yea, she was beautiful¡± she agreed, wiping an errant tear from the corner of her eye.

    The fire continued to burn, the logs slowly reducing to ash and charcoal; the bright orange flames turning into a red furnace. Yuki stared at it, and beyond it into the darkness.

    One of the horses whinnied. Yuki stood up slowly, watching the darkness just beyond the flames edge. Two glowing eyes watched her in turn, orange as they reflected the firelight.

    ¡°Foreigner, my bow is on my sleeping mat, pass it to me¡± she said in a low voice. Her ears perked up as she heard something padding in the snow behind them.

    ¡°Pardon¡± he said far too loud for comfort.

    ¡°Now!¡± she hissed through her teeth. A moment later there was a rustle in the tent, and she felt the tip of her bow brush her fingers. Closing around it she brought it to chest height, it was as tall as her, seconds later she found an arrow quill by touch.

    In a single fluid moment, she drew back the bow and sent the arrow darting into the darkness, its bright blue and white patterned feathers streaked through the air. Snowflakes danced in its wake and the arrowhead blazed as it reflected in the eyes of the wolf. In less than a moment it disappeared into the darkness between the wolf¡¯s eyes.

    Instantly she heard a yelp of pain and a whine, in the darkness there was a chorus of growls and the soft padding of feet. Behind her she heard a snarl, whipping about she shot another arrow past Alexander who recoiled back.

    At the other end of the campfire, the arrow buried itself into another wolf, its paw having just come into the visible light.

    Alexander stared at the grey figure limping away into the night with a pale face ¡°I nary perceived them.¡±

    ¡°Well, you¡¯re lucky they sent me with you and not that drunk Goemon or you¡¯d have their fangs around your neck¡± she said shivering, but not because of the cold. Unstringing her bow, she laid it by her side.

    Alexander fed the last and largest of the logs into the fire, Yuki eagerly watched it catch, she wasn¡¯t sure she could sleep. So, she sat there, yawning as the fire grew. The flames began to dance as her vision blurred, and as her eyes became heavier and heavier they seemed to change colours. From yellow, to an unnatural blue.

    Yuki shivered. It was cold and dark she realised, that wasn¡¯t right, the fire had been roaring just a few minutes ago. She stared at where it should¡¯ve been, and all that remained was a smouldering pit of coals.

    Her breath steamed out from her mouth as she realised, she¡¯d fallen asleep, she made to move but realised something heavy and tight was covering her. Wriggling she realised she was covered in blankets, the same that had covered her sleeping skin. It had to be eight or nine layers of thick linen she realised, but even that was only an impediment to the cold. Thankfully there was something quite warm and comfortable right beside her, in fact it felt almost as warm as the fire.

    She glanced over to the foreigner sidling over to him, so long as he didn¡¯t realise, she reasoned; curling next to him. His skin was much warmer than she¡¯d expected, it was almost like sitting beside the fire.

    She stared out from the tent half sitting half laying as she watched the night outside, she watched Socks himself huddled beside the pack pony, the snow having covered him on both sides.

    It had stopped snowing she realised, glancing up she saw the sky wasn¡¯t full of stars, but the faintest shade of dark blue. It would be dawn soon, she told herself. She didn¡¯t want to get up, to leave the warmth, but the idea of this foreigner waking up and seeing her clinging to him was too humiliating to bare.

    Carefully and slowly, she crawled out from the shapeless mass of blankets, making sure not to wake up her fellow companion. Finally stepping out onto the cold grass, she watched with some amusement as Alexander rolled into the now empty space.

    ¡°Geeze, how can you sleep like that when there are wolves about¡± she said, quietly to herself. Looking about she tried to find the carcasses, but they had vanished, all signs of the wolves last night gone. Not even tracks or blood. She frowned, cursing herself as she wondered if this was some new spore of black magic.

    Shaking her head she wandered back over to the cliff edge, wondering if she should make good on her threats from last night. With the air clear of both fog and snow she stared across the clear ravine that dropped into a mist covered abyss, before rising on the other side a wooded mountain slope. Standing there was a red gated temple, a large complex of impressive wooden houses and tiled rooves.

    Stretching away from it a bridge connected it to her end, but at a much lower point, and to a wide road she recognised as leading towards her clan¡¯s castle. The road she¡¯d been aiming for, and investigating the cliff, she saw a thin stairway cut into the mountainside, just wide enough for a horse.

    With a sigh she returned to the tent, it had been just within reach the entire night, she realised.

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