Our quick journey to the Eagle lands was uneventful. Jekusu seemed well, but I can't even begin to wonder how angry she must be at having so many children under her responsibility. I did pull two of the gold bricks from the wagon and gave them to Jekusu to take care of the costs the children would incur. Sixty children can eat a lot of food, as I have discovered on our journey. We left the Gaijin, Elly, with Jekusu as well. I don't feel it would be safe for her to travel with us. As tall as she is, with hair the color of golden sunlight, any who try to follow us, or any who hate Gaijin, would easily spot her and cut her down. I refuse to carry her death on my shoulders. I am already responsible for Hida Hisaki's death. If I had been quicker... if my arrows had flown true, he would not have died. Already wounded by the samurai, when hit by the shugenja's magic he died painfully and heroically. He will not be forgotten.
Our journeys were chilly, damp, and dark. It rained most nights, and no dry firewood could be found anywhere. It was as if Amaterasu refused to show her face after the death of her son, Hantei. Dark, looming clouds covered the sky from horizon to horizon.
We took back roads as often as possible, to avert unwanted attention. As we neared Otosan Uchi, we were forced to begin traveling on the Imperial Road. In the distance, we could see a small entourage of Bayushi Samurai approaching. We sent Kakita Mizake ahead with a message of peace. I know the samurai and shugenja we fought with the oni were Scorpion, and my hatred for them increases, but I grow tired of bloodshed. The proof of Bayushi Shoju's treachery tucked carefully into my sleeve, I grew nervous when Bayushi Asamara accompanied Mizake back to our wagon. Asamara, the general who led us inside the Emerald Castle to free Asami, Kimi, and the entire Emerald Empire from Satsume's heinous crimes. He could have turned his back on us then, and left us to die, but he did not. While I don't entirely trust a man who can hand out black armor of "supposed ninja," I do feel that my life is not threatened in his presence. I was even pleased to see that he made it out of the final battle alive. No one was more surprised of this than I. These are confusing times, indeed.
Bayushi Asamara bore a message from Bayushi Shoju, who wishes us to meet with him to talk. He presented several palanquins for us to ride in, which I promptly refused. Perhaps Cranes like riding in those cramped little things, but I will not subject myself to that, especially knowing who offered them. I did, however, agree to meet with Shoju-sama. This left Kaze quivering wide eyed, and Haichi grumbling something about just killing the twelve guards and leaving. Mizake seemed to take it all in stride, but was perhaps a bit nervous in dealing, once again, with Bayushi Shoju. I'm sure she thought her troubles with him were over when she delivered Doji Hoturi to him as a prisoner of war.We reached a small tea house near the edge of a village. There, the Scorpion "retinue" with us ordered us to leave the wagon of hay and enter the tea house. Not bloody likely. Haichi remained with the wagon while the rest of us entered the building. They obviously know what we have hidden under the bales of hay, and insist on joking about it.
Stepping under the arch and through the door, we found Bayushi Shoju-sama already sipping a cup of tea. A single servant girl sat in the corner. I bowed just a fraction short of what I should have, hoping it would imply my reluctance to come here with him. He quickly got to the point by stating that he "wished" me to give him the information I found. To hand over the papers and the wagon and be on my way. I couldn't believe the audacity. He may hide behind a mask, but he is no coward. I calmly stated I didn't "wish" to give him that information. He knew what kind of implications those papers held, and he refused to offer any explanation, any alibi, or any suggestions on possible leads. He denies any connections to him in this matter, but one would expect him to, as his life is at stake if this proof is given to Empress Asami. He didn't know that his wife was the one who gave me the code to decipher the letters. This gnaws on my mind. He knows what a devious person she is, but can't keep control of her. Was it her doing? If she framed her husband for these treacheries, she would be free to run the Clan, and to do as she wished. I had to hold firm to the proof I have against him in the instance that he is guilty though.
Shoju began to badger me into giving him the papers that he may investigate the matter. I didn't trust him, and I trusted his wife less. He tried to tell me that the life of the Empress and the lives of many Rokugani were at stake, if he were blamed for this incident. I suggested that I make a copy of my proof. I would hand over the originals to him, if I personally made the copies. He grew furious, saying there was no time. I scowled at him and told him to make the time. It's his life at stake, not mine. He irritatedly insisted that if I continued to Otosan Uchi, I'd be there by mid-day, and I would not get the opportunity to make the copies before speaking with Asami.
Honestly, the thought of making such copies while traveling hadn't even crossed my mind. I had intended to make them there and then, hand over the originals, and be on our way. After careful explanation of my plan, he agreed, but wanted to take the gold as well. I refused. I insisted that I present Asami with the gold, as a gift. He didn't seem happy with it, but could not get me to budge. He had his servant bring paper and ink, then stood to leave, making excuses that he must return to the palace. It seems that Hamorei has left Asami's side. This seems strange to me. He never returned after fetching Bayushi Aleao from me. Why would a servant of the Fortunes do that?
I may never know the answer to that question, but my purpose here needed to be complete. I finished the copies, handing the originals to Shoju-sama's servant. Once again outside, I discovered the Scorpion guard had remained to "escort" us to Otosan Uchi. How untrusting of Shoju-sama.We arrived in good order at the palace gates. The guards and stable men looked baffled at the arrival of our large wagon, asking me where they should unload it. I sighed and ordered them to carefully take the contents and lock them in the Imperial Vault. Haichi grunted and insisted on staying to oversee the process. I slipped my hand beneath the hay and tucked two of the gold bars into my obi to present to Empress Asami.
Akodo Kaze became squirmish and refused to enter the palace. When asked why, her reply was interrupted by Bayushi Asamara. He said it had something to do with her ancestors, but was none of my business if she didn't want to tell me. All spoken in that blunt, ever knowing tone of his, of course. I had to force myself not to roll my eyes and grind my teeth at his presumptuous manner. I turned and told Kaze it was her choice, and I would support her in her decision. She chose to stay in a nearby sake house while Kakita Mizake and myself sought audience with Empress Asami.
Court was held immediately, and I presented the two gold bars to her, explaining that more was being unloaded as we spoke. The look on her face was priceless. Shock and confusion mixed with relief and perhaps a touch of sorrow. She ordered everyone to leave the room but those involved in this investigation. Everyone left. Everyone including Shoju-sama who had been sitting beside Asami.
Asami insisted that the Crane clan was under careful watch for Mizake while she was away. Mizake's new Daimyoship over the clan has yet to take a solid hold due to our investigations. Mizake seemed relieved to hear this news.
I explained to her how the villagers had been slaughtered by an oni that was being used to mine this gold. Of course, she asked who was responsible for it, and I almost hesitated. I told her I didn't know for certain, but would continue to investigate the matter until we had those responsible to face the charges. I feel somewhat justified in telling her this, as I don't know for certain. But I did hold back the evidence I have against Shoju. I hope to buy time to discover who is responsible, for it seems to me that Shoju would never be this sloppy, nor would he personally take such risks. He would hide behind names, send unknown people and certainly not leave written proof at the sight of the crimes. She looked confused as to why or how we could return without knowing, but she didn't quite seem herself. Distant and sad, she listened as I spoke.
As delicately as I could, I told her about the children surviving their families and that I left them in Jekusu's care. She nodded and told me to never speak of those children again. They died with their families. She also inquired about the Gaijin that was reportedly traveling with us. I told her she was save with Jekusu as well.
I probably reddened a bit when she inquired why Akodo Kaze wasn't in our presence. I told her Kaze-san didn't feel right entering the Palace. Asami nodded and stood, exclaiming that she would have to go to Kaze if Kaze wouldn't come to her. My jaw nearly hit the ground. This young child has caught the attention of Empress Asami? Quite intriguing.
With quick movements, we were out of the palace and walking into the sake house nearby. As we entered, I noticed Bayushi Shoju leaving. There was no time to question his motives.
Empress Asami entered the building with her usual flourish of grandeur, surprising young Kaze to no end. For Akodo Kaze's service, without her being asked to do so, Asami gave her her own estate in the Crane lands. Upon her sudden possession of the throne, Asami's personal lands had been neglected and empty, save a few servants. Asami offered these to Kaze, who stared at her Highness with wide eyes. Kaze questioned the wisdom of giving a Lion a home and lands in the middle of Crane territory. Asami then flippantly gave her a position as Imperial Magistrate to justify having a home close to Otosan Uchi. I think, perhaps, that there is something more to this gift than a mere reward for service. Samurai serve the Empire every day... but I'll be cursed by the Kami if I know what it is.
After a period of shock, then some sputtering and stammering, Akodo Kaze accepted Asami's reward for her service.
Asami and her guards left the building, after I reassured her I was still investigating and would return to her soon with more information. I sat for a few minutes with Kaze, who still sat somewhat shocked, at a table. She squirmed with nervousness as I sat down.
When I questioned the young Lion, she revealed she might have just done something bad. I furrowed my brow and ordered a cup of sake while I listened to her story. Bayushi Shoju approached her, warning her that the Gaijin Elly is in great danger. He wrote a letter to Jekusu, for the immediate release of Elly into the hands of Shoju for protection, and he convinced Kaze to sign it. Kaze was terrified that I would be angry.
I assured Kaze that I wasn't angry, just intrigued at Shoju's motives. I informed her that I will be setting up a meeting with Shoju this evening, and she looked upset. I assured her I would not even mention the letter. This was a meeting for another matter. She calmed and sat quietly as I stood and left the sake house.
I arranged a meeting over dinner with Bayushi Shoju, then proceeded to kill some daylight by checking into a respectable inn. Eventually it was time for the meeting, and I headed to the palace. Shoju was tight lipped, but I wasn't there for the conversation. I merely wanted to tell him, in person, that I expected answers soon. I told him I left his name out of the report I gave Asami, in order to buy him some time. Upon receipt of news, he was told to send it to Akodo Kaze's new home. I will be traveling for a while. He understood my meaning, and we cut the dinner short.
I don't know if he's guilty or innocent, but I have confidence that all will reveal itself in due time. I don't like keeping the evidence I have away from Empress Asami, but I have no choice. If it is incorrect, or forged information... I will not have the death of an innocent man on my shoulders. I just need more time.Our small group split up on our own ways this evening. Kaze left to see her new home, and Haichi was traveling north, last I heard. I believe Mizake headed to Kyuden Doji, to take her place at the head of her clan. I expect to travel south, to Ryoko Owari... to follow the rumors of Fujizaka there. I can wait no more.
I was resting in my room when there was a polite knock on my door. I opened it to find an Eagle Clan messenger. I was quite surprised. I quickly opened the scroll, sealed with a familiar mon.
Iuchi Datsuko,It has come to my attention that Hida Fujizaka has been abducted. I had three men following him, for your sake.
The last report I had from them was that they were taking him into Dragon lands. They were going to Spiral Mountain. That was the last report I had from any of them. I fear that wherever he has been taken is well guarded.
Good luck in finding your love. If you need assistance, please write.
Lady Kachiko
My heart stopped. Who would abduct him? Why? He escapes one danger only to suffer another? How could they overpower him? Unless he is wounded? My plans take an immediate change to travel north. I depart first thing in the morning.I was sleeping restlessly when another knock at my door woke me. Kakita Mizake stood at my door, fist clenched around a letter, her face twisted with fury. She immediately implored me to help her. Doji Kuwanan apparently has taken a liking to her position as daimyo. He was granted temporary power until Mizake could return from the investigation for Asami, but now he is working with Bayushi Kachiko. This alliance could destroy many lives, and what is left of the Crane Clan.
Mizake spotted battle plans in the great hall of her castle, depicting an attack on Dragonfly Clan territory. To attack Dragonfly land would be suicide. The Dragons and the Phoenix would be there protecting this minor clan in less than a heartbeat. The losses the Cranes took when Oni no Satsume battled against the Empire has left the clan much weaker than usual. The Crane Clan would surely perish.
I was confused why Mizake had returned to Otosan Uchi if there is such vile things occurring in her castle, and why she didn't just throw Kuwanan-san out of the castle. Mizake growled and thrust the letter in her hand to me.
Kakita MizakeThis letter is to inform you that Doji Kuwanan will be running the Crane clan unofficially, while you take a leave of absence. This will be as soon as you read this letter.
If you refuse to comply with this, then some very embarrassing details will come forth about you and your lover, Asami. Details that might even be blown into something worthy of seppuku. I would hate to have our new leader and Empress of our land have to take her own life, as bald as she is.
So if you do not care for yourself, then care for your lady, and ex-lover.
Lady Kachiko
Mizake blushed and apologized if the contents of the letter revealed something I didn't know, or didn't wish to know. I assured her it was nothing that I didn't suspect, but certainly none of my business either way. Mizake is my friend, and such details of her past should be left in her past. I know her, and I know the way she looks at Hamorei. She loves him, no matter what her past contained. However, the details of the letter did make me clench my fists in anger. Bayushi Kachiko has entered our lives like an annoying splinter, where she insists on festering, making the wounds bigger and far more difficult to contain and heal. I can only hope we are able to remove the fester before the infection moves into the blood stream.
I told Mizake I couldn't go with her to the Crane lands. I must travel immediately to the Dragon lands, in search of this Spiral Mountain. I hesitantly showed Mizake the letter I received earlier from the Scorpion woman. Mizake's eyes narrowed as she read. After a few choice words from the Crane, it became clear that my suspicions of Kachiko are mirrored by Mizake.
I suspect Fuji may have been kidnapped, but I doubt it was a surprise to Kachiko. I fear he has been taken by her men to some strange place, perhaps to lure me away from where I am needed. I can't back up my suspicions, however, and must travel to this Spiral Mountain, despite my worries. I fear for Fuji's life. I lost him once... I will not lose him again.After consulting with Mizake for a time, we composed a letter to Jekusu begging her to attend to the needs of the Crane court and baby-sit Kachiko's puppet, Doji Kuwanan. With the letter sent, Mizake and I left Otosan Uchi, traveling north, may the fortunes bless our journey.
We stopped in the Dragonfly Clan lands, to ask permission to cross their borders into the Dragon lands, and to discuss the battle plans Mizake spotted in her brief stay at Kyuden Doji. At first the Daimyo was hesitant to speak with us, and was cold. Soon, he began to see our motives, having heard of us before. Mizake begged him not to slaughter her people if they do something foolish, being out of her control. He pondered the situation for a time, and announced he would strengthen the fortifications of his clan, and post additional guards at the borders. A sound idea, I thought, to make the Cranes think twice before continuing with their plan. The Daimyo said that he would not attack unless provoked, and he would be merciful should the need arise, but could not speak for the Dragon or Phoenix armies that would assuredly rush to assist the minor clan. Mizake was satisfied with this arrangement, and busied herself to leave.
I remained seated, and asked him if he had heard of Spiral Mountain, and if he could assist me in knowing which direction to travel to find it. He looked at me as if I were mad. I held my chin upright and fixed my gaze on him. He shook his head and told me that Spiral Mountain is a myth, a fairy tale told to children. He didn't know what the details of the story were, and suggested I talk to the Dragons about it. He made it perfectly clear that if I am chasing Spiral Mountain, I might as well be chasing the wind... perhaps he did not realize he was speaking to a shugenja. Myth or no, I will find Fujizaka. He knew nothing about any Scorpions or anyone being abducted traveling through his lands either.
The Daimyo suggested I speak to Mirumoto Hitomi, The Dragon Clan Daimyo about Spiral Mountain. He gave us the proper papers to pass the borders into Dragon territory and bid us farewell. I have every intention of doing just this. Even if there's only a one percent chance that I'll find anything new, I must take it. That one percent is worth the world to me.Kakita Mizake and I arrived at Shiro Mirumoto with more or less nothing eventful having occurred. I take that as a blessing, in these times of trial. The journey was hard. I can see why few travel these dangerous mountain roads. We were refused audience with Mirumoto Hitomi-sama, but were allowed to set an appointment in three days time to meet with her.
I spent my time in the libraries, researching Spiral Mountain, while Kakita Mizake left, to find Haichi. She had word that he was studying with the Dragons nearby. I believe she wishes to bring him back into her clan. I didn't know the Ronin was Crane, so I need not mention the surprise I felt. I hardly noticed Mizake's absence though, for I found a great deal of information on this Spiral Mountain.
A myth, a legend, told to children as a night-time story, Spiral Mountain daunts all cliffs and at the top, dwells priests and servants in a most holy temple. A temple for the Fortunes. Being one to commune with the elements, speak to fortunes, and serve the Empress with a servant of the fortunes, there is not one ounce of doubt in my being that this place exists. The question is where. These mountains are treacherous, and without knowing where I'm headed, surely I will perish. Perhaps this was Bayushi Kachiko's intent? I will not let her succeed.I will never forget my interview with Mirumoto Hitomi-sama, nor will I ever remember it in fullness. I remember sitting before her, trying to be impressive despite my small frame. The Dragon Daimyo keeps her head shaven clean, and her eyes are full of anger. She spoke with little patience, and moved with forceful gestures. Kakita Mizake, having returned with Haichi, was quickly informed that the Dragons would not be merciful to the Crane's foolish behavior. Mizake nodded humbly, and did not press the point.
After that, everything becomes a bit faint. I asked Hitomi-sama if she could assist me in finding Spiral Mountain, and after a quick debate on my motives, a figure stepped out from behind a screen that I hadn't noticed sitting near Hitomi-sama. Silent and masked, wearing an ancient helm, I'm certain this impressive figure was Togashi Yokuni-sama. I recall that we spoke for a brief time... I get chills thinking about it. He was powerful... but I can't say what leaves me with that impression. I can't even recall what we said. But I left Shiro Mirumoto with a map in hand, leading to Spiral Mountain; my purpose there was fulfilled.I quickly packed up Kiseki for the rigorous trip. Kakita Mizake insisted on coming, feeling somewhat responsible for Fujizaka's disappearance. I assured her that she wasn't responsible - how was she to know the foolish man would jump through the gate? I told her that if she felt it necessary to go take care of problems in her clan, to go ahead. She refused, as she was on forced leave anyway. Haichi, being her yojimbo, came as well.
As we were about to leave, two horses came bounding up the trail. A sleek black horse carried Akodo Kaze, and another less fine horse carried a thickly veiled Scorpion woman.
Kaze spoke excitedly and quickly, something about Bayushi Shoju being wounded, and him insisting she bring Elly to me? Through a bit of translation of Kaze's gibberish, I was able to determine what had happened. Kaze was enjoying her time in her new house, when the gates burst open, and Bayushi Shoju entered, with a massive arrow wound, and Elly in tow. He spoke quickly to Kaze, asking her to take the Gaijin, Elly, to the Dragon lands, and to ask Datsuko to care for her. Kaze's staff quickly took Shoju to the doctors, and Kaze quickly set about giving the golden haired Gaijin a disguise. The veiled Scorpion who arrived with Kaze was none other than Elly, with black hair.
The two women rode hard to catch up to us in the Dragon lands. I can't even begin to fathom why Shoju would send Elly to me, or who might want him dead... except perhaps whoever it was who framed him with the oni and the mine.I didn't much care about who was with me, or why. I only cared about reaching Spiral Mountain. I led the group deeper and higher through mountain passes and rocky terrain with the assistance of the map I was given. The map I can't look at without getting goose bumps as my mind searches for details on how I got it.
We came upon a small town at the base of our final climb. Virtually sheer walls and crumbling paths were to become part of our near future. Kaze took one look up at the mountain, and halted immediately. She gazed at the high canyon face, and abruptly refused to continue the voyage with us. We tried to convince her to come, but she would have nothing to do with climbing that steep path. She began to grow angry, and cursing all who would have her do such things. She swore at her ancestors and the Kami, who would put her in this position, telling them to go join Fu Leng. Her steed immediately fell dead beneath her. So her ancestors and the Kami disliked being cursed at, especially at the base of the mountain on which their temple resides. I do not doubt that is what happened. Kaze pulled herself together with as much dignity was possible, mumbling about how Shoju-sama was going to kill her when he discovered she killed his horse.
I told Kaze she could stay, or she could come with us, we would not judge her either way, but Elly wanted to stay with Kaze in either circumstance. Kaze has become a yojimbo of sorts to the Gaijin. I pointed out that Shoju-sama asked Kaze to bring Elly to me, and leaving the two of them behind didn't seem to be a wise idea. Elly gently asked Kaze to climb the mountain with us. Finally, she agreed to come, despite her ill feelings about it.
I suggested we stay in the town for the night, and begin our final climb in the morning. We made our way to the small sake house, where I spoke to the owner about making arrangements for us to stay in someone's home for the night. There was no inn here, nor any decent stables for our mounts. The kindly man set us up with some dinner and drink and went on his way, to speak to the villagers about my request.
A suspicious looking man was eyeing our group, and after seeing Haichi enter the sake house, he promptly stood and tried to leave inconspicuously. Haichi chased the man out the door, returning a short while later with the man in tow. Haichi announced that the little man would be coming with us to the top of Spiral Mountain. The man didn't seem altogether pleased about the notion.
We spent the night in stables and spare futons, thankful for what warm rest we might catch before our long climb to the top of the mountain. The next morning we started up, only to find the journey would take much longer than I had at first anticipated. We could not take our horses, for the path was much too narrow and steep.
The mist grew thick as we climbed higher, making the village below disappear in the swirling white. The air thinned and it became colder, but we continued on. I commend my friends and companions for their perseverance through the ordeal. They had no reason to come with me, other than their loyalty to me, and our friendship.
The nights were frigid, and the days tedious. We continued upward despite our sore muscles and weary bodies. After several days, we reached our destination.
The mist cleared as we walked toward the temple before us. Drawn like a moth to a flame, I moved forward, driven by some unknown force. My determination grew stronger as my mind pondered the possibilities. Either this was a trap, set by Kachiko, or Fuji was here. For me, it mattered less than a single grain of rice. I was here, and I would do what I had to, in order to restore my love to his rightful place.
When a tiny man stepped from the giant doors, I knew this would be a safe haven for us. I do not know how Fuji came to be here, but I knew as I know my own name, that no danger awaited us behind those doors.
The man greeted us cheerfully, and introduced himself as Yamaka, head priest of the Temple of the Fortunes.. He led us to our own rooms, and gave us time to clean ourselves up. Every room was impeccably clean, and elegantly ethereal. This divine and sacred place… it seemed somehow wrong for me to be there, or any of the others, for that matter. Yamaka-Sama seemed to know we were coming though. He expected us. He led us into the main hall, where he introduced us to the keeper of records, Kamake, and Lady Jinoko, the only woman serving in this temple to the Fortunes. All of them knew we were coming, and all knew our names. Hamorei was there as well, seeing to the schooling of Bayushi Aleao. I was not surprised to see delight in Mizake's face to see the handsome shugenja.
Hamorei told me that Fujizaka was here, recovering. I am not allowed to see him yet, and I begin to go stir crazy knowing he is in the same building as I, and I cannot see him. At the same time, I am ever more concerned for him. What is he recovering of? What happened? Why can I not assist? I asked Hamorei, and he seemed to look at me with pity.
Hamorei told me that Fuji is not the man I once knew. He is changed from his trials in the Shadowlands and from his travels afterward. I began to shake and grow cold at the news. Changed in what way? Deformed? Injured? These things I could live with. Mad? I would do my best to cure him. But had he forgotten me? Lost his memory? Found another? Such things… were far too much for me to comprehend. I finally exhaled, not realizing I had been holding my breath. Clenching my hands into tight fists beneath my kimono sleeves, my nails cut into my palms. I swallowed hard, forcing myself to take deep breaths to avoid choking up into a fit of undignified tears.
Finally, I asked Hamorei exactly what had happened. Kachiko had told me that he had been seen in Ryoko Owari singing for his supper. I mentioned this, and Hamorei nodded. He explained that Fu Leng had cursed him, to force Fuji to dishonor himself. Driven somewhat mad, Fuji acted as a peasant would, begging for meals, and disgracing himself. Such actions would under normal circumstances be cause for severe punishment. To be a Samurai, one must act accordingly, at all times. A man has his pride, and for me to see Fuji in this state, it would have severed our relationship, perhaps beyond repair. This must be why Megumi warned me not to go looking for Fuji too soon. The damage would have been devastating to both him and me.
As it is though, Fuji will not be punished, due to his heroic steadfastness against Fu Leng. He was brought to this temple to be cleansed, and will soon be exactly as I last saw him, so long ago. The Crab Clan will be ecstatic to have this champion back in their midst. But not a single one will be so pleased as I.
Lady Jinoko sat us down and fed us after our long and tiring journey up the mountain. Never before have I tasted such delicacies. The food was flawlessly seasoned, and cooked to perfection. I had to force myself to stop, as such gluttony would leave me up ill all night.
While Lady Jinoko set about fixing Akodo Kaze's dreadfully dreary wardrobe, and getting Elly into something better cut for her tall voluptuous body, I was escorted to the library to do research.
The first thing I noticed were the scrolls. Shelves upon shelves of infinitesimal number, filled with scrolls with the history of Rokugan from beginning to present, more being added by the second. Kamake chuckled behind his long white beard saying that this library held the true history, unabridged and unmodified by lazy historians. Nothing lost due to fires, and nothing added for flavor.
I gasped in amazement when I saw the map. A table stood in the center of the room, covered with a giant map of the Emerald Empire. I could see figures moving about on the map and clouds dancing across its surface. The tiny man was excited to show me how the real time map was set up. A giant lens could be moved across the map, to zoom into particular areas. My heart began to beat faster when I looked through the lens and saw armies on the move. Crab forces gathering toward Scorpion lands, and Cranes moving everywhere. Scorpions were stabilizing their units and the Lions seemingly unaware of it all.
Kamake nodded and grinned, telling me the Crabs were out for revenge for the loss of a great warrior, murdered by Scorpion shugenja. I raised an eyebrow, wondering what the old man meant. I was correct in assuming he had a tale to tell.
Hida Hisaki.
My blood ran cold as I remembered the way my Crab yojimbo's body lie twisted, smoking from the lightening blows that stole his life. My eyes grew watery as I remembered his smooth bald head, and the way he grunted in disapproval of anything I wanted to do. I had often wondered how the Samurai had gotten all of his scars, but had never dared to ask. Truly a strong Samurai, the toughest Crab I had ever met, and dedicated through and through, Hisaki would remain forever in my memory.
Kamake proceeded to tell me the story of how Hida Hisaki became the revered hero who died to save my life, and the lives of the children taken hostage by Kyoso no Oni and its master.
Hida Hisaki was a valiant warrior who often took trips into the Shadowlands for scouting missions. He had brought back more oni heads than any in his class. He married, as was expected of him, but soon fell in love with a brave Samurai-ko. They were scouting in the Shadowlands together, when she became tainted. They did not have enough jade for them to both make it back to the Kaiu Wall. She forced him to take her head, and use the remainder of her jade to return home. The mystical power of the jade enabled him to travel without becoming tainted, however when he returned home, he shaved his head and retired to be a monk. He wrote poetry in her honor, but always burned it tribute to the samurai-ko that gave her life freely so that he may live as soon as the ink was dry. No one has ever read his poetry, save the servants of the fortunes who reside in this temple.
Kamake informed me that they have copies of each poem. I was tempted to ask to see one, but decided not to invade on the personal thoughts and feelings of this brave man.
Hida Hisaki was present at Fuji's wedding, being a close family friend. Fuji told his old friend that if anything were to happen to him, to protect me. When Hisaki learned of the incident that sent Fuji into the Shadowlands, lost, he put down his monk robes, and took up his daisho once again. The situation between Fuji and I was too similar to his own that he couldn't ignore Fuji's request. He died for my sake, and in remembrance of the woman he loved.
I sat quietly for a time, soaking up the tale. I had always wondered why Hisaki-sama had attached himself to me but had never gotten the nerve to ask. Now that I knew, I wondered how my tale would end. Surely not as tragic as his. However, it appears that Hida Hisaki's death has upset the Crab Clan as a whole, and they intend to get their revenge for the injustice and dishonor performed.
I asked Kamake if he could tell me what he knew about who was responsible for the mine and the destruction of the villages. He nodded solemnly, explaining that the reason that Elly was sent to be with me, was she could identify the conspirators. She was the one who saw Bayushi Kachiko giving orders at the mine. Somehow, I knew this to be the truth, before he even spoke it. Perhaps because I have never trusted the devious woman. She has manipulated us all, and framed her husband for her own crimes. As soon as we are able, we must go back to Otosan Uchi and inform Empress Asami of my discoveries. Surely by then, Shoju-sama will have some solid evidence… provided Kaze's servants have taken proper care of the wounded Daimyo.
The tiny man informed me that since I would soon be a member of the Crab clan, I should know as much as possible about the Crab history. He pulled out several large scrolls and set them down before me. I sat and began to read as Haichi entered the room with the strange man he brought from the village at the base of the mountain.
I was quietly reading when I heard the familiar sound of chanting, and felt magic energy building in the room. I looked up in time to see Haichi's new friend throwing a fireball at the Ronin's back. Quickly, I called upon Osano-Wo, and thrust his fury down upon the traitorous man. Haichi reacted as quickly as I and was across the room with his sword drawn to finish him off, despite his wounds.
Kamake scuttled back into the room not surprised in the least that the stranger lay dead in the library. He was only concerned that the scrolls might have been damaged. It seems that the Fortunes do in fact watch over their temple, for there was not so much as a single scorch mark near the scrolls. Haichi refused to let me heal him, but returned to poring over a scroll. I shrugged and left him to his business.
We were called to dinner shortly thereafter. I stepped into a room that was gracefully decorated. If I thought lunch was wonderful, it was a complete understatement for what was served in the evening. In Elly's honor, Lady Jinoko had prepared Gaijin food… something called lamb. It was strange, tender meat, which all but melted in my mouth. This servant of the Fortunes treats us like Royalty, for surely we eat far better meals than those prepared at Otosan Uchi. Haichi, Kaze, Mizake and Elly were dressed elegantly, assisted by our host. I felt drab in comparison. I suppose that is what I get for burying myself in scrolls in the library all day. Kaze's long white hair cascaded over her shoulder, tumbling down to her ankles, and carefully wound with intricate decorations. The young samurai-ko looked better than the best dressed courtier I have ever seen. If her Lion father loved her Crane mother at all, he would be proud of the beautiful warrior maiden. Hamorei was there as well, sitting beside Mizake.
He feels badly for leaving Empress Asami without his council, but knew he was needed in caring for Fujizaka. I'm sure Asami will forgive him when she finds out his motives for leaving her. Perhaps it would have been kind for him to send her notice of his well being though. After a dessert comprised of something called ice cream, I retired to my room to meditate for a short period before falling asleep. I was eager for dawn to come and with it, Fujizaka.I was awakened by Lady Jinoko, early in the morning, to help me prepare for breakfast. She told me Fuji was waiting. Butterflies darted around in my belly as she helped me dress. I wore my hair loose for the first time since my gempukku, for she insisted that the severe braid was no good. Lady Jinoko brushed it into a glossy sheen, arranging it to frame my face and spill down my back like black silk.
I was led down the long white corridor, and left alone before a door. I timidly knocked on the door and slid it open, to see Fuji uncomfortably tugging at his kimono sleeves. He looked up and saw me, then froze. There was so much to say, so much I wanted to tell him... my mind raced with things I wanted to share, each one freezing on my lips. Silence louder than an army's war cry filled the room.
Fuji crossed the room instantly, gathering me in his arms. Those strong, gentle arms that have always comforted me. I buried my face in his chest and held him. I held him as tight as I could, struggling not to weep. His warmth, his musky scent, and his essence, all surrounded me and enveloped me in a pure moment of perfection. I missed him so much but I didn't realize how greatly. My knees gave out, forcing him to support me, but I didn't care. He pulled me closer to him, and looked into my eyes. His gentle brown eyes that had implored me for forgiveness, told me he loved me, and promised me his life, gazed into my soul in this moment of reunion.
I don't know who kissed whom, but we found ourselves bound together; two people searching for proof of our existence in that moment. Confirmation that this wasn't yet another dream, but a reality that we actually held each other in that room on Spiral Mountain.