Honor
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| Character | Seppun Nikana and Isawa Takako | |
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Editor's Note: This series of linked travelogues are presented together for clarity and ease of reading.
Takako sat in front of her Fire Kami altar meditating. The last several days had been unsettling and it was time for Takako to regain her focus. She felt as if it had been weeks since her last mediation. In fact, it had only been one day.
Takako had come to terms with saying goodbye to Hanshiro-sama and welcoming Nikana into her life. Unfortunately, she had been placed in a situation in which her honor and belief had been tested. For some time, Takako had known that there had been strange changes taking place in Phoenix lands. There had been several powerful and influential shugenja who had turned their backs on the Kami that had been held so dear. They had instead embraced the dark powers of Maho-suki. Takako knew that one day she would come face to face with this evil but she was not as prepared for it as she had hoped.
After the Bloodspeaker and his apprentice had been killed and the Black Scrolls found, she was put in the position, a distasteful position, of withholding vital information from the Kuni. Ridachi felt that keeping the cipher scrolls would prove useful. But he said Takako ultimately had to decide what to do because she was the one who would have a better chance of understanding what was on the scrolls. The thought of touching the scrolls terrified Takako. It made her sick inside to even consider keeping them and maybe being linked to them at some point. She loved her kami and she would never turn her back on them. But after everything Ridachi had done for the group, how could she say no. Placing the Black Scrolls in her scroll satchel was one of the hardest choices she ever had to make. Fortunately, Nikana could tell that having possession of them pained Takako and he went to Ridachi and told him that he had to take them, to take the responsibility for them. Takako was so grateful for Nikana and his ability to know when she really needed his help.
The other situation that had Takako unsettled was when the group was faced with Oni no Shaiyan. She knew in her heart that Kitsuki Shaiyan had brought an evil forth, and she had prepared herself for that eventuality of coming face to face with an Oni. The thing she had not prepared for was Nikana running to meet it because he did not want it to get close to her. He wanted to protect her even if it killed him. He ran up to meet it because of her, because of her. She could understand a Seppun running up to an Oni to protect his Emperor but not her. She was starting to love Nikana but until today she didn't realize that he cared about her enough to give his own life to protect her. How was it possible? Willing to die for her.
Takako lit the lantern on the altar. Meditation would be long and difficult tonight. "Kami hear my prayer."
Takako stared at Nikana's face through the steam of her tea cup as she took a sip. Nikana was staring into the tea pot that sat between them on the ground.
"What troubles your mind Nikana? Have we not weakened the shadow and brought honor and glory to our families?"
Nikana looked up at Takako seemingly pulled away from deep thought. "No, something else troubles my heart."
"You are concerned it may be some time before we see each other again," Takako ventured another guess.
"In a matter of speaking," Nikana said finally looking Takako in the eyes. "I do think of our future – of when we will see each other again. I wonder what the future holds. I also ponder the ghosts of my family, my grandfathers disgrace."
"Oh, Nikana. You fret too much. You are an honorable servant of the Empire and a fierce warrior. It will only be a matter of time before you..."
"I'm going to the Wall," Nikana interrupted.
"What do you mean you're going to the wall?," Takako asked, the color leaving her face.
"Several days ago I sent a message to my Hida cousins that I wished to join them on the wall," answered Nikana straining to keep his eyes locked with Takako's.
Takako seemed shocked, so Nikana continued speaking.
"I have no doubt my daimyo will accept their request, whenever it comes. If I return from the Wall I will have taken another step in redeeming my name and if I die then my disgrace dies with me," Nikana winced as soon as he saw the echo of his words on Takako's face. She looked sick, as if Nikana had kicked her in the stomach.
"I will of course return," Nikana quickly offered. "I...please say something Takako-san."
"Please forgive me Nikana, this news comes suddenly and unexpected," Takako finally said, regaining some of her composure.
Nikana reached out and placed his hand on Takako's. Takako sat perfectly still, unresponsive to his touch. Nikana pressed on, gently squeezing Takako's hand.
"I need you to understand this decision. It's been your guidance that brought me to it. That night you admonished me to trust myself in the face of my ancestor's rebukes made a deep impression on me. I will prove to my ancestors that I am no coward. And...and I will not be a shame to those close to me in the eyes of others." Nikana paused then continued hopefully. "This is a chance for me to stand up for myself and my honor."
Takako let out a long breath, squeezing Nikana's hand in response.
"I think I can understand why you must do this," Takako said quietly, pulling her hand away from Nikana's.
Nikana couldn't clearly read her expression. Was it anger? Perhaps fear? Or was it sadness? Maybe all three?
"Thank you for telling me this, Nikana – it's a lot to take in. I think I will need some time alone to think about what you have said." Takako offered a weak smile before looking away.
Nikana bowed low to Takako, stood up and quickly left the room.
"The Shadowlands. You have asked to serve at the Wall and go into the Shadowlands." Takako stated to Nikana more than asking him as they sat beside each other in the garden. It was sunset, and the sky looked as if it were on fire. The sky could not compete with the fire that Takako felt right now. "Nikana-san, are you wanting to die?"
"No, Takako-san, I do not want to die, but I need to prove to my ancestors that I will not run when faced with the evil of the Shadowlands. I know my own heart and it's strength. My heart is unknown to others and they fear or wonder. They do not trust me. And then there is you Takako. You have been the only one to see me as I am --you have... embraced me and I have found in you an uncomparable companion. It is one thing to be accepted but something altogether different to be accepted by someone you respect and care for. You have shown me that others can see me for who I truly am. If I am ever to end their torment I need to do this." Nikana looked at Takako and could see more fear than anger in her eyes. "Takako do not worry, I will return from the Wall. I am Seppun but I also have Crab in me. I will return, I have much to live for." Nikana reached out to take Takako's hand but she rose from the bench and started walking. Nikana rose and started walking after her. "Takako, don't walk away. Talk to me, please."
Takako stopped walking and turned to face Nikana. She looked up at him without speaking for several minutes. She needed to make sure she could speak without breaking down again. She wanted him to take her seriously and it is hard to take a crying woman seriously. She had already lost one man she loved to an unknown. She had just started to love Nikana and she wasn't ready to lose him to another unknown. Slowly, she started to speak. "Nikana-s . . Nikana, I understand your need to prove to your ancestors that you are no coward. I think I understand this better than most others. I feel you are also doing this to prove to your Clan and to my family that you are an honorable samurai. I sense you are also trying to prove to me that you are worthy of my love. But I think the one person your trying to prove your honor to is yourself. Nikana as I have told you before, I don't care what others think of you because I know who and what you are. But I need you to believe it, to believe in yourself. To believe that you are not like your grandfather and if going to the Wall is what it will take for you to do this, then I will accept your need to go. But I want you to understand how I am feeling right now."
Takako reached out and took Nikana's hands. "Nikana, I have gone to my kami and asked them for a favor. This is something that I have never asked of them before and I need you to be open and willing to what is about to happen. You have to agree or they will not help me do this. It will not hurt you physically. As for mentally that depends on how well you can deal with my feelings. I have asked the kami to help you experience my feelings. I am wanting to share a part of my soul with you, are you willing for this to happen?"
Nikana bowed his head slowly, waiting a long moment, before saying softly, "Hai, Takako, I am willing but I don't know if I'm worthy..."
Takako reached up, placing her hand on Nikana's chin, lifting his face so they could see eye to eye. "Don't you think I should be the judge of that," Takako challenged.
"Very well then. I would be honored," Nikana acquiesced, a small smile flickering across his face.
"Good. Come with me," Takako said and she led him back to their room.
Takako knelt before her Fire Kami's altar and contemplated the words she wanted to use in her ritual haiku. Takako pulled out a piece of her blessed parchment and wrote down her haiku.
Gazing in my soul
Nikana must see and feel
Kami hear my plea
Takako rolled up the tiny scroll and tied it with a piece of red silk. She lit the lantern on the altar and then laid the beautiful little scroll inside the flame. This was the first time Nikana had ever seen Takako perform her ritual to her Fire Kami.
Nikana was use to the altar in the corner but two other small tables had been added to the room since he was last in here this morning. Takako rose and quietly walked over to one of the other small tables. This table had a piece of parchment on it like what was on the altar but there was also an incense holder with incense in it and a small-lit candle. Takako sat for another several minutes in thought and then started to write. When she was done writing she lit the incense and then lightly blew on them so that they started smoking. Nikana could smell the delicate scent of cherry blossoms. Takako then picked up the piece of paper and read it aloud.
Kami of the Air
Scent of incense floats through you
Understand my need
Takako rose again and walked over to the second small table. On this table were a beautiful pitcher and a basin that was wide and flat. Takako picked up the pitcher and poured water into the basin and then laid the pitcher back down. Takako then rose in her knelling position so that she could she her reflection in the water. And in that position she stayed for quite a few minutes while she contemplated what she was asking of the Water Kami and she was accepting the consequences of these actions, whether good or bad.
Takako then rose and walked over to where she had asked Nikana to sit. In between Nikana and Takako lay the most exquisite tea set Nikana had ever seen. Without words and with the grace and beauty of a swan Takako preformed the tea ceremony for Nikana. Her gift to the Kami of the Void.
When the tea ceremony was over Takako looked up at Nikana and said, "Nikana-sama will you please join me over on the Tatami mat?" and with those words she rose and walked over to the Tatami mat and motioned for Nikana to kneel opposite her. When he had knelt down, Takako reached over to her left side where a piece of yellow and green silk lay. She picked up the silk and underneath lay two of the objects from the writing set Nikana had given Takako. Takako picked up the stone with the Phoenix Mon on it and laid it in front of Nikana. She then picked up the Jade with the Seppun Mon on it and laid it in front of her. She made sure that the stones were touching each other at the top and then Takako bowed her head and quietly started speaking. "Kami of Earth, the maker of these beautiful and strong symbols of our two families. Please help me to complete this ritual today. The Sharing of one Soul with Another." After several minutes she slowly brought up her hand and put it on Nikana's heart.
With Takako's touch, Nikana felt a flood of what felt like the most comfortable, warm water; like taking a relaxing bath. Then Nikana's heart started to race, like the first time Takako smiled at him. No, it was the first time he smiled at Takako. He was feeling how she felt the first time they had seen each other. His heart started beating faster, now he was feeling the way she felt after she had read his note at the White Orchid Festival. He had not realized that that note had meant so much to her. He felt how she felt the first time he asked to stay in her room, to protect her. He felt himself blush and his heart pound. He could feel the way she felt the day he told her of his families dishonor, she still thought of him as a dear and loyal friend. His dishonor didn't matter to her. He could feel how much she had missed him when they had parted to go home and how happy she was when he arrived to take her to Scorpion lands. He could feel how she had felt just a few nights ago. First how worried she was that his dreams were troubling him, then surprised when she had lightly kissed him. Her feeling of love for him suddenly overwhelmed him. Had she felt overwhelmed that night? Next was a flood of sadness. Sadness that she would have to say goodbye to him, and that she would have to walk away from love. Why was she going to leave me? Then a rush of joy. Joy at the song of a bird. I still don't know why the bird had made her so happy but I know when she is ready she will tell me. Then there was a despair and pain that he had never felt before. Fear so overwhelming. The fear of losing him just now that she had found him. Loss, loneliness, and fear. Nikana could feel tears starting to roll down his cheek. She was so very afraid of losing him. It was beginning to be more than he could take. Nikana felt Takako collapse onto his lap. "Takako? Takako, are you okay? Answer me!" Nikana bent over Takako. Her eyes were closed, she wouldn't answer him but she was still breathing. He gently moved her so that he could pick her up and take over to her sleeping mat. He gently laid her down and sat there staring at her.
Takako's eyes opened and the first thing she saw was the worried face of Nikana. "Nikana, it worked." Takako said weakly.
"Hai, it worked. Had I known you were going to make yourself collapse to do that, I never would have agreed. How could you take such a risk?" Nikana asked as he wiped a stray hair out of Takako's face.
Takako smiled and laughed slightly, "Take such a risk? Like the one you take in going to the Wall? I knew what I was doing. I knew what I was giving so that I could share a piece of my soul with you. It was worth the cost. The cost is only temporary, I will be weak for a few days but it was worth it to me. The cost you might have to pay is not temporary. I just wanted you to know that you have nothing to prove to me. I am not trying to talk you out of going, just the opposite. I support you, I understand but I wanted you to know that you need not do anything else to prove yourself to me except maybe to love me. That's all." Takako smiled at Nikana. "Nikana, do you mind if I close my eyes again and sleep?" Takako asked weakly.
"No, Takako, I don't mind, close your eyes and sleep." Nikana said.
And with those words she fell to sleep with him watching over her again.
Isawa Takako shuffled as gracefully as she could manage, her eyes locked on the wooden floor below her. The soft whisk of her passage was the only sound to mark the presence of people in the large chamber. But Takako was not alone. The hall was filled with samurai – bushi and courtiers alike. Her reprimand would be public.
Takako stopped quickly and fluidly turning a low bow into a sitting crouch with her nose brushing the floor. In that brief movement she had glimpsed the throne. It was an Emperor that had sat on it this time. It had been an Empress when she entered. The form atop the throne seemed to shift and slide in turmoil from one visage and stature to another, taking no rest.
"Hearing Nikana briefly describe his visits was no preparation to experiencing it," Takako thought to herself, still unsure what they wanted with her. "Now I know why he never describes them in great detail."
The low voice rumbling out from the throne hit her hard despite it's softness.
"You take it upon yourself to interfere with our affairs!" the Empress clipped in sharp tones, her voice rising at the end.
"You think you love the coward and this emboldens your foolish heart," pronounced an Emperor, the voice getting louder.
"Your ploy may work for a time but it will only bring you more pain in the end," predicted an Empress with a hint of sadness in her voice. "Your actions will have unforeseen consequences."
"It is my name he took upon himself," an Emperor intoned, his voice twisting. "He has a price to pay and it may be to end his family shame by dying without thought of himself. Know your place young Isawa."
"Even as Nikana seeks his salvation in the Shadowlands his love for you will be tested and his heart will crumble. Then you will know the coward as we do."
With those words Takako's head swam and she seemed to be falling.
The room was dark and quiet except for the soft breathing sound Nikana made while he slept. Takako had woken just a few minutes before. She was finding it harder and harder to sleep through the night. She knew that when they arrived at Kyuden Seppun, Nikana's departure papers for the Wall would be waiting and that made Takako restless. So much had happened between them in just the past few months and yet there was still something that had never happened between them.
Sleeping in the same room together had just become a natural situation. Nikana always wanted to make sure Takako was safe and Takako liked having him close to her. Since they had left Ryoko Owari Toshi though having Nikana in the room at night made it hard for Takako to think strait. This was the first time Nikana and Takako had traveled together alone since Takako realized she was in love with Nikana. It wasn't easy to be this close to him and not be able to be with him in every way possible. As her love grew stronger this desire grew stronger.
Takako laid there and thought to herself, "Same room but different sleeping mats, that was only proper. But what is Proper? I love him. I want to be in his arms at night. That truly would be the safest place to be. But I don't think that this is a bridge that can be crossed before it is proper. I hate that word. He will leave for the Wall and the Shadowlands soon and he might not return to me. I will always regret not having this special bonding with him if he doesn't return. Right now I would welcome his warmth and comfort. I already feel we are one. Why can't we be of one body before he leaves? The kami would understand. They understand love. There has to be a way to share myself with him."
Takako sat up and starred at the sleeping Nikana. She felt so luck to have him in her life. Takako quietly heaved the covers off of herself and rose from the mat. She quietly padded over to where Nikana was sleeping and she knelt down. For several minutes Takako just knelt there and starred at him, as she knew he had done on several occasions. She reached out and gently touched his face. So strong and proud and noble. So Honorable. "What I want. What I need. Should I not care more about his wants and needs over my own? Is that not what love truly is." Takako thought to herself. She could not do this to him. She should be the one person in his life that did not try to test his honor when there was no need. No this would be her problem and her problem alone. He did not need another worry going into the Shadowlands. His mind need not have the burden of worrying about her honor while he was gone. No, a warrior needs to have a clear mind. This was her burden not his.
Takako sat there looking at him. For a change he was sleeping through the night, and she was happy for this. He needed his rest. She eventually fell asleep while she sat there.
Nikana woke at dawn and saw Takako sitting there beside him asleep. She looked so peaceful he hated to wake her but he felt the need to hold her. He sat up and gentle pulled her to him. He wrapped her in his arms and held her there. She felt so warm and she smelled so lovely. He wanted to memorize that moment so he could remember it on the wall. He suddenly realized that Takako was quietly crying. He hadn't even noticed that she had awoken. Was he hurting her? "Takako? Am I hurting you? What's wrong?" Nikana asked.
"Nothings wrong. It was just wonderful waking up in your arms. I had not meant to fall asleep beside you. I'm sorry. I just could not sleep last night so I came over to sit beside you for a little while. I . . ." Takako didn't finish what she was saying because she was crying to hard to do so.
"Takako? Please don't cry." Nikana held Takako closer and lightly wiped a tear from her face. "Takako, please talk to me?" Nikana pleaded.
"Just keep holding me. Don't let go." Takako whispered. Her sobs stopped but the tears did not. " I think I should finally explain a few things I have kept from you. You have a right to know. I want no more secrets between us." Takako said and in his arms she stayed as she told him why exactly the bird song had meant so much to her that day, the dream she had where she was chastised by Nikana's ancestors and why she had been having problems sleeping at night.
Now was the time for Honesty.
"Well," said Nikana finally breaking the long silence that had followed Takako's explanation. Nikana pulled Takako closer as he continued. "It is comforting to know that I am not alone in my desires. I was not sure how much of your heart I could win. That you have sought and received Hanshiro-sama's approval means a lot to me. I love you more than I have let on and I will always treasure the peace we have found with one another." Nikana paused, and his brow furrowed almost imperceptibly as he carefully chose his next words.
"What is it Nikana, I've learned to recognize that look. Just say what's on your mind," Takako said, shifting so she could get an even better view of Nikana's face.
"I want what's best for you. And I also want a future with you. It will take some doing to bring these desires together. We must proceed cautiously. Your family will not easily accept me."
"They will come to see you as I do," Takako interjected as she began tracing her finger along Nikana's jaw. Takako knew that her Declaration of Love for Nikana was with a courier on its way to Phoenix lands. Her family would know soon how Takako felt for Nikana. It was too late for her to proceed cautiously with her family.
"I do not doubt your sincerity will be hard to deny but few are gifted with your unique vision. You see through my past and into my heart," Nikana continued, gently moving Takako's hair away from her face.
"And in time they will realize your heart is pure and life honorable."
"Hai, they will. However, this is something I will have to earn", in blood and pain, Nikana finished the thought to himself holding Takako closer still to him.
"So, you face two oni and you think you're ready for the Wall?" Seppun Yagyu asked looking off in the distance.
"There's more to it than that." Nikana said drawing his bokken quickly and striking out, seemingly at Yagyu but shifting his movement at the final moment to strike at a target just to the side of Yagyu. Yagyu's blade seem to leap to his hands and struck Nikana's forearms causing him to miss his target and step into Yagyu's blade – normally a killing blow.
"Then why don't you explain it to me, Nikana" Yagyu spoke as they both took up their positions again.
"My grandfather shamed my family by fleeing before the shadow. I go to show that this same blood does not flow through my veins," Nikana explained. Yagyu leapt from his position trying to outflank Nikana to get at the target beside him. Nikana moved aside giving Yagyu an open attack on the target. However, before Yagyu could land his strike Nikana continued his motion and twisted swinging his bokken out slapping the older samurai across the upper back, close to the neck.. The blow caused Yagyu to stumble to the side of the target – out of range of any attack.
"Well done, if you had moved to get between me and the target I would have cut you down instead. And then the target," instructed Yagyu. "Hmm, you don't seem completely at peace with your decision to go to the Wall, but I sense there is also something else weighing on your mind."
They took up their positions again.
Nikana leapt right at Yagyu. Yagyu leapt as well, their bokken clashing together. They pushed against each other – bokken to bokken – for a split second before they both twisted slightly, the butt of Yagyu's bokken striking out across Nikana's jaw and the butt of Nikana's bokken stabbing solidly into Yagyu's solar plexis. Both continued the twisting motion with Yagyu's blade sliding across Nikana's neck and Nikana's blade sliding across Yagyu's torso. They would have both died where they stood.
"Well, Nikana, what is it? What troubles you?"
"Does a true Miharu have room in his heart and life for love?"
Yagyu stopped on his way back to his mark and stood there a moment before nodding with his head toward the nearby gardens. They wordlessly replaced their bokken with their daisho's before walking into the garden.
"So, why don't we start this over. What's your question?" Yagyu asked.
"Does a true Miharu have room in his heart and life for love?"
"No, Nikana I want you to ask me the real question you have," Yagyu said impatiently. An experienced guardsmen, Yagyu had no use for pretense.
"Until recently my heart and mind were singularly focused on honing myself into the perfect Miharu – a weapon and protection for the emperor. I was focused on regaining my families place of honor. But...now I'm in love and I'm not sure how to reconcile the two without compromise."
"Ahh, the young need no excuse to fall in love and they often leap before they look," Yagyu said quietly almost to himself. "I suppose the first thing I should know is whether she knows of your feelings and does she return them?"
"Hai, she knows how I feel and she loves me as well."
"Tell me what are the duties of a Miharu?"
"To stand vigilantly between harm and the Emperor, his family and those others we are sworn to protect. To take no thought of self – to have one mind focused on the life of one other."
"And what does it mean to love?"
"To prize someone above yourself and to cherish them and protect them without reservation...it also means to have one mind focused on the life of another."
"As unlikely as it seems I was in love once myself," Yagyu joked. "At first the one you love seems this all encompassing duty but if your heart has chosen well then she will become an aid to you in your duty to the Emperor not a distraction. This is the real question you have to ask yourself – how well has your heart chosen?"
"My heart could not have chosen better. She has already proven to be a wise counselor to me. She is courageous and virtuous."
"I do not doubt it Nikana, but no matter how true you think you see things now, despite your emotions this is an issue that you two will have to work out between you," Yagyu advised, not quite hiding the pain in his voice at some distant memory. After a short pause Yagyu continued, "You will find that the true challenge and duty of love and marriage, should it come to that, is that you seek peace for two hearts instead of just your own. As difficult as it can be being of one heart and mind within yourself it is much more so for two to be of one heart and mind. You will learn the power and timing of true submission and so must she if peace is to be found," Yagyu finished, falling silent for a long moment.
"Now, what else troubles your mind?"
"Something my love said to me recently. When I informed her of my request to go to the Wall she said that one of the reason's why was that I'm trying to prove my honor to myself."
"Heh," laughed Yagyu. "Perhaps your heart has chosen very well, Nikana. She's right."
"This is what I've come to realize since she said it."
"Every warrior wonders how he will face the terrors that are out there. The only way to overcome this is to trust your true self without reservation. As a warrior is in his heart so is he – it's a realization and a decision you make. No more. You make it more complicated because you wonder if it's due to your grandfather. You have failure before your eyes and in your mind – you must be of one mind and it must not be of victory or defeat but only of the moment. You want others to forget your families disgrace – so must you. The greatest warriors go into battle alone and naked – stripped of ego, of thought of victory or failure – all they have is the calm of inner peace and total focus on the moment. Whenever you go into battle you carry your grandfather with you, as well as all those doubt you. You must learn to let go," Yagyu finished his admonition, stopped waking and stared at Nikana.
Nikana let out a long breath, returning the gaze. "As usual, master, you see to the heart of the matter. I will do as you advise."
"Hmph," grunted Yagyu, satisfied that Nikana had taken him seriously enough, and continued walking.
"Also, master, I have not made an official declaration of my love. I hope this can stay between us."
"Don't worry Nikana, I will keep this to myself. Now, there are several more things I want to discuss with you before you go to the Wall. I won't have you dying or disgracing yourself after I've spent all this time training you," Yagyu said heading back towards the courtyard.
The light was starting to show over the mountains and Takako was sitting in the gardens watching the sunrise. This was normally Takako's favorite time of the day, with the dew on the flowers and the birds starting to welcome a new day. Today was not one of those days. Takako didn't feel the normal warmth and joy that the sun brought her. She had been unable to sleep the night before and when she knew she would be unable to cry quietly in the room she came outside to the gardens. Takako had been outside for several hours weeping. This was the day Nikana would be leaving for the Wall and she wanted to get all the tears out before he saw her. She didn't want to make this day any harder on him then it had to be. She had to be strong for him. Takako wiped the tears from her face, it was time to go in and clean up before Nikana woke up. No need for him to see her in this state. Just as Takako stood up from the bench she heard a voice from behind.
"I knew I would find you here. When I did not see you in your bed I assumed you had risen early to meditate. Takako, you're in your sleeping kimono. What's going on? How long have you been out here?" Nikana asked as he walked up behind Takako. He still had not seen her face.
"Nikana, please go back inside. I was on my way back in to clean up. We can have breakfast as soon as I get dressed. No, Nikana, don't." Takako said as she tried to keep from being turned around by Nikana, but it was no use.
"Turn around here. Takako what . . ." Nikana stopped talking when he saw her. Her eyes were red and swollen. Her face was tear streaked. He touched her cheek and she was ice cold and he finally noticed that her feet were bare. He had never seen her like this. "Takako, answer me. How long have you been out here?" Nikana asked as he took Takako's hands in his so that he could warm them up.
"Most of the night. I couldn't sleep and I didn't want to disturb you, so I came out here. Please let me go inside and clean up. I didn't want you to see me like this. I don't want this to be your last memory of me." Takako pleaded as she tried to pull her hands away.
Nikana wouldn't let go. "Hai, your going inside but I am carrying you. Now . . . stop fighting this and it will be much easier. I am . . . stronger than you Takako. I will put you over my shoulder if I have too but I would prefer to . . . carry you in a more comfortable way for both of us." Nikana said as he tried to pick up a squirming Takako. "Takako, stop this now!" Takako stopped fighting. Nikana picked her up and took her inside.
After a bath and putting on a clean kimono, Takako came back to the room to join Nikana for breakfast. When she walked in he was sitting there looking worried. He immediately stood up, "Takako, do you feel better now?" He asked as he walked over to her.
"Hai, but foolish. I did not want you to worry about me and I made it worse. I will be fine Nikana. I just had a bad night." Takako said as she walked over to where breakfast was waiting.
"I am unsure what I can say to make you feel better." Nikana said as he joined Takako on the mat.
"There is nothing more to say. We have said quite a lot lately to each other. I know you must leave today. I am prepared. Now have some breakfast and then we can get you ready to leave." Takako said as she handed Nikana a cup of tea.
"I have a few more things for you to pack. Can we sit down while you open them?" Takako asked as she started to sit down.
"Nikana, these are things to help you remember me while you are away. Please accept them." Takako put the package in front of Nikana.
Nikana sat down across from Takako, looking at her seemingly taking no notice of the package. "I believe I should be able to remember you without any help."
"Nikana-san, I have searched the city for one of these gifts. One of the gifts is something that has been mine for some time. One was put together from my memory and my talent. And the last two are to remind you of our time together. Please Nikana-san." Takako again placed the package in front of Nikana and then she bowed.
"Takako-san, you begin to worry me. I will only be gone several short months and then I will return..."
"Nikana-sama, I have decided that while you are at the Wall I will not be writing you. I do not want to distract you from the reason you are there. These gifts are the only contact you will have with me until you return. Please Nikana-sama, take these gifts with all the love they were put together with." Takako put them one last time in front of Nikana and this time she bowed and stayed that way.
"Takako-sama please rise," Nikana said gently. Takako didn't move. "Very well then, I will accept these gifts on one condition."
Takako rose slightly from her bow. "Which is?" Takako asked with some uncertainty.
"That you must unquestioningly accept a gift from me as well," Nikana said with a crooked smile.
Takako rose completely from her bow and eyed Nikana for a moment. "Done"
"Excellent," chuckled Nikana eyeing the package.
"Please unwrap the outer package and then I will explain to you each of the small packages inside." Takako said a little more relaxed now that she knew Nikana had accepted the gifts.
Takako picked up the first small package, "The gift inside here is to remind you of the first time we met. I had to look around the city for this." Takako handed the delicately wrapped package to Nikana.
Nikana unwrapped a small painting that fit in the palm of his hand. White Orchids beautifully adorned it. He looked at it a moment before flipping it over to examine the back where he found a haiku written in Takako's hand. "I was hoping my life would change with that Festival but I could never have foreseen the ways in which it has. I will carry this with me so that I will not forget the beginning of this new life."
The next package was about the same size as the last one, "This is something that I have had since my Gempuku. I had it made for Hanshiro-sama so that when he was away he would have me with him. I hope I do not offend you by giving you something that was once his." Takako laid the gift in Nikana's hand and then bowed her head.
Once opened Nikana saw an exquisitely painted picture of a younger Takako. Nikana gently touched the surface of the painting tracing the outline of Takako's face. "I am honored that you would entrust this to me. I will take your beauty with me wherever I go."
The next gift was the smallest and lightest package of them all, "This is just to . . . I am unsure. It is just something I wanted to give to you." Takako gave this gift to Nikana and it truly felt like there was nothing inside.
Nikana gently pulled apart the oddly shaped wrapping paper. Inside was a long red silk ribbon. Nikana recalled seeing it in Takako's hair on a number of occasions. Nikana sniffed the air then brought the ribbon to his nose - closing his eyes and inhaling deeply. Takako had soaked the ribbon in her perfume. "I will use this as part of my morning meditation. Thank you Takako."
The next package was a little bigger than the rest but Takako picked it up with the most care, "This is from one our most recent memories together. I want you to remember this time because on that day I shared with you something that I had shared with no other." Takako lightly laid this gift in Nikana's hand.
Nikana took great care in peeling back the layers of paper enshrouding something at its center. Eventually Nikana uncovered a single teacup. It was one of the teacups used during the ritual they had shared in. "I will remember the perfection of that moment and strive to understand you as well as I did on that day. Again, thank you Takako"
The last gift Takako picked up and held it to her heart, "This gift was put together by my hand and my heart." Takako held the gift in her hands for Nikana to take. "When you take this gift, you take a part of my heart with you."
Nikana unwrapped a small well-bound book. There was no title on its cover so Nikana opened to the first page. Flowing writing in Takako's hand graced its page.
"All I ask is that you don't read the last page until you arrive at the Wall," Takako instructed as Nikana read the first page. "I believe in the words of Shinsei and that is why I have shared some of my favorite with you. The haiku inside are also how I honestly feel, never doubt a single word." Takako smiled at Nikana.
Nikana smiled in return. "I have always found wisdom and peace in your counsel. I am glad that it will be near even though we will be separated." Nikana's smile widened as he took in the gifts and Takako's glowing face. "I do not have much to offer you. But what I have I give you," Nikana said and with a swift fluid motion removed his wakizashi presenting it to Takako. "I have endeavored to protect you - to be a barrier of steel between you and those who would harm you. Keep this at your side as a reminder that I will return and retrieve it to take my place beside you."
Takako's breath caught in her throat, and tears were rolling down her cheeks. Nothing had ever meant so much to her. "He gives me his wakizashi," she thought to herself, "to remind me he will return and take his place beside me. He wants to be beside me." Takako for the first time in a long time was at a loss for words. All she could do was quietly cry while holding the wakizashi Nikana had just given her. "What he must think of me, unable to speak, unable to tell him that I accept this wonderful gift. Please kami, help me," Takako pleaded in her mind but still only tears came.
From behind Takako came the soft melodic song of the bird Nikana had given her. The kami and Hanshiro were helping her once more.
"Nikana, I will keep this by my side everyday until you return to me. I love you, which will never change. No matter what happens at the Wall, my love for you will never change. I do not understand how I have been so lucky in my lifetime to find and earn the love of two wonderful men. What did I ever do to deserve this much happiness? Thank you for this gift and the honor of wearing your wakizashi. I hope I can live up to the honor you have given me this day." Takako bowed her head and cried, for there was nothing else she could do.
Takako and Nikana walked out to the stable. Nikana's horse was packed and ready. Takako knew that this was the time that she had to let him go. He was now in the Kami's hands. Takako stopped beside the horse and slowly stroked its neck, "He looks like a fine horse. I am sure that . . . I am not making any sense." Takako shook her head, "I had hoped this would get easier but I don't think that is going to happen." She turned and took hold of Nikana's hand and held it tight. She then stepped in and put her forehead on his chest. "Nikana-sama, as long as I live I will love you. There is nothing that I would not give; I would even give you my last breath. Please remember that I already believe you are an honorable samurai. Keep focused on your duties. Don't worry about me, I will be safe. I love you, Nikana-sama," and with those words Takako looked up and kissed Nikana and then she ran back inside Kyuden Seppun.
Honor
Honor and Glory
Your family name clean again
Future this will be.
–Isawa Takako
You can steal a samurai's weapon and armor, but you can never steal his honor.
–Tao of Shinsei
Distinction earned
Acclaim and adoration
Honor above all.
–Isawa Takako
Loyal to family
Forever your devotion
Question you no more.
–Isawa Takako
Samurai
The worst enemy is the absence of hope.
–Tao of Shinsei
Clear your mind of us
When into battle you go
Focused you must be.
–Isawa Takako
It takes a wise man to see an obstacle as it truly is and not as it appears to be.
–Tao of Shinsei
When ten thousand men clash with arms and fire, it is always a single man's actions that make the difference.
–Tao of Shinsei
Standing on the Wall
The Seppun's courage tested
It will not fail him.
–Isawa Takako
When you are doing one thing, be concerned with that one thing and nothing else. Distraction breeds disaster.
–Tao of Shinsei
Appreciation of beauty is the beginning of wisdom.
–Tao of Shinsei
Two men can brave what one man cannot.
–Tao of Shinsei
A courageous man has no need to be cruel.
–Tao of Shinsei
You cannot balance the elements while you are without balance.
–Tao of Shinsei
Seeking true wisdom
Like ripples on still water
Never-ending waves.
–Isawa Takako
Brave men may be forgotten; brave deeds never so
–Tao of Shinsei
The only true test of courage is the last one.
–Tao of Shinsei
See obstacles as they truly are, not as they appear to be.
–Tao of Shinsei
True nobility comes not from being superior to another man, but from being superior to your past.
–Tao of Shinsei
Bravery My Love
A trait you have already
Your actions are true.
–Isawa Takako
A clear mind can topple even the strongest will.
–Tao of Shinsei
Wisdom comes in finding the opportunities that dilemmas provide.
–Tao of Shinsei
Friendship is truly tested when it is time to share the burden.
–Tao of Shinsei
Two strangers meeting
Both full of uncertainty
A friendship began.
–Isawa Takako
Friends do no hold on to the past, they hold on to each other.
–Tao of Shinsei
Little drops of rain
Welcomed and necessary
As is your Friendship.
–Isawa Takako
Destiny does not believe in secrets. When something is meant to be, it is obvious to all but the foolish.
–Tao of Shinsei
Those with pure purpose have the strength to never fall.
–Tao of Shinsei
Love
Phoenix and Seppun
Two minds with only one thought
Love for each other.
–Isawa Takako
Dew on the petals
In the holy light of dawn
Emergence begins.
–Isawa Takako
Genuine my love
Seppun Nikana has earned
My heart is now his.
–Isawa Takako
(Haiku being sent to both families after Nikana leaves for the Wall)
Pillow Book: containing the above Haiku's and sayings.
Picture (Small)
Whiter than new snow
Beauty above the Heavens
Orchids of the Crane
–Isawa Takako
(Written at the White Orchid Festival)
Picture (small)
Isawa Takako
A red silk ribbon that Takako wore in her hair that she has soaked in her perfume.
The teacup used in the tea ceremony during the soul sharing ritual.
Takako was enjoying her first morning back in the garden that she had grown-up in. The flowers were just as beautiful as they had ever been. The smells and sounds were comforting. It wasn't enough to rid her mind of its worries about Nikana being so far away but it made missing him a little easier. It had been a quiet night and morning; Takako's Aunt Daikako hadn't come to wake her like she usually did on the first morning of Takako's return home. Her aunt wasn't yet willing to accept Takako's Declaration of Love for Nikana. Takako had sent the declaration to her family when she left Scorpion lands and had asked the Phoenix courtier at Kyuden Seppun to deliver the declaration to Nikana's family once Nikana and Takako both had left the castle. Nikana and Takako had declared their love to each other and Takako wanted both families to know. She felt no shame in the way she felt about Nikana. Her family would need to accept him. He was a good man and he would prove to all of them that he was an honorable samurai and one to be proud of.
"Takako-chan," said a familiar male voice.
Takako turned around and smiled. There stood two samurai she hadn't seen in two years. Not since Hanshiro's funeral. "Dayu-kun? Mito-kun? What are you doing here?"
Dayu is Takako's oldest brother. He serves as Chui at Zumiki-mihari. Since the death of their father, Dayu has been hard to reach. Honor and duty; never anything to do with the family. The only reason he showed for the funeral was not because he loved Takako but because he did not want to lose face for not being there as the head of the family.
Mito is the fourth son and the brother closest in age to Takako. They had always been close until he was promoted to Gunzo and sent to Toshi no Omoidoso, which was on the opposite side of the Phoenix lands from Takako. Mito has always been protective of Takako since she was the last to be born.
Takako and her brothers had decided it would be best to return to her room for the family discussion that was about to happen.
"Did you think Daikako-sama would not notify us of your involvement with a dishonorable Seppun? Are you trying to bring disgrace to this family?" Dayu said brusquely.
"It's nice to see you too, Dayu-kun. I've missed you. Do you care to hear my side of it or do my wants and needs not matter?" Takako asked, her voice level. She knew that this discussion would likely get heated but she did not want to be the one to start it.
"Of course your wants and needs matter", Mito said quickly before Dayu could answer. "We love you Takako, but we are unsure if you completely understand what you are doing. His family has been dishonored. He guards peacocks. You deserve better. Someone as honorable as Hanshiro-sama." Mito walked over to Takako and put his arms around her. "Takako, I missed you and it really is good to see you."
Takako relaxed in Mito's arms. He had always been a calming presence, even after Hanshiro's death. "I missed you so much," Takako whispered. After a minute Takako pulled away, "You are wrong about Seppun Nikana. He is an honorable samurai. He has stood beside me in fights that I wanted to run from. But we stood together, fought together and won, together. He has protected me more times then I can count. I have had time to learn about him, something that none of you have done. I love Aunt Daikako but there is more to a person then their family history."
"Why can't you do what your told? I am the head of this family and I say you will have nothing else to do with this Seppun." Dayu barked at Takako.
"Do what I am told? I was told to marry Hanshiro-sama right after my gempuku and I did, without question. I learned to love him. I stood beside him. I was there beside him when he died. He told me to go out into the world. To learn what was out there to be learned, to see what there was to be seen. He has watched over me for the last two years. I went to him with my feelings for Nikana-san. I asked for his approval and he gave it. If he can why can't you?" Takako looked at her brothers and for the first time she didn't know who they were.
Dayu stepped forward, and backhanded Takako. He hit her with such force that she fell to the ground. Mito grabbed Dayu by the arm, "Stop. Dayu-kun, she's our sister." Mito exclaimed.
"Hai, she is our sister, and she needs to do what she is told. She will bring disgrace on us. I will not stand here and allow that to happen," Dayu snarled at Mito. He turned back to Takako, who had started to stand back up, and struck her again, "Where is the Coward's grandson? At home, guarding more peacocks?" Dayu smirked.
Takako started to pick herself up off the floor again; if she were to be beat she would not take it while cowed on the ground. "He is at the Wall and going into the Shadowlands. He felt that he needed to prove himself to my family and his. He has nothing to prove to me. He is no coward Dayu, and don't ever say that to my face again. I am a lot of things but weak is not one of them." Takako said as she wiped tears from her eyes and blood from her lip. "I have served this family with honor everyday of my life and I still do so today. Everyone will soon see what I have seen for a long time in Nikana-san. He went to the Wall not because he was told to go but because he asked to. He asked to go, Dayu-kun. He doesn't sit at a watchtower that watches nothing." Takako glared at Dayu as he moved suddenly toward her, and instead of bringing up her arm to protect herself, like he thought she would, she just stood there. "Don't even think about hitting me again Dayu, I speak the truth. If the truth hurts then do something about it. In the past year, Nikana and I both have fought in a skirmish against the Lion, we have fought a Bloodspeaker and the evil he brought forth and we have had the opportunity to go before the Emperor. How has any of that been dishonorable? He protected me when my life was in danger. Is that cowardly? He has been a friend to me. I was lucky that I was able to develop that friendship into love. I love him, Dayu-kun. I love him, Mito-kun. That will never change. What kind of honor would I have if I turned my back on him now that I have declared my love for him? I would have no honor, none. I will not disgrace this family, I promise this to you. If he is shown to be a coward then I will commit Seppuku. Now will you please leave my room?"
A knock came at the door. Takako looked at it and could not decide to let them in or not and finally she said, "Hai."
Mito slide the door open and walked in. "Do you want to talk? I want to. I haven't had my say in all of this yet. I promise I won't hit you. Is your lip okay?" Mito asked as he walked over to where Takako was sitting.
Takako looked up at her brother and he could finally see the damage that Dayu had done. One whole side of her face was bruised and her lip was swollen. He stopped and closed his eyes. "Takako, I am so sorry." He knelt down in front of her and held her hand. "Honor is everything to him."
"Mito-kun, I know honor means everything to Dayu-kun. I've known it since I was little. I've worked hard to bring this family honor. Loving Nikana-san will not bring dishonor to this family. If we marry, I will take his family name and that way you two won't be embarrassed anymore. I'm sorry that I disappoint you two." Takako looked down at her hands and could hold the pain in no longer. She started to cry.
"If you would just stop seeing Nikana-san, I'm sure Dayu would calm down. We only want the best for you," Mito said.
"If I asked Dayu-kun or you to stop breathing could you do it? That is what it feels like you are asking me to do. He is what's best for me. After Hanshiro-sama died, I was so sad, and scared, and alone. It was like a dark pit that I could not crawl out of. It was a year before I felt safe to go out in the world. I finally went out there and I was confronted by a situation where I worried about dishonoring our family. During this time was when I met Nikana-san. Nikana-san helped me realize that as long as I did my best then honor would come. At that time I had no idea of his family history. I think that is what helped me. He earned my respect before I ever learned that his family was dishonored. I learned of this dishonor from him not anyone else. He wanted to tell me because he respected me and counted me as his friend. He never acted as if he were the grandson of a coward, just the opposite. So I decided that his family dishonor didn't matter to me. Slowly my feelings changed from friendship to love. When I realized that he was in my heart I went to Hanshiro-sama and asked him if he was okay with me moving on with Nikana-san. I asked for a sign and he sent one. At that point I didn't feel I needed anyone else's okay. I'm sorry, I love you, Dayu-kun and Daikako-sama but if he decides that I am the one he wants to marry then I will marry him. I wish I could change your mind about Nikana-san or at least to give him a chance. Mito-kun, he makes me happy, isn't that enough?" Takako pleaded.
"I don't know if that will ever be enough for Dayu-kun but it is for me. I worried about you after Hanshiro-sama died. You never would have stood up to Dayu-kun like this a year ago. Aunt Daikako might be persuaded if you will just sit down and explain things to her just like you did with me. You really believe he will regain his family honor? Are you prepared that he might not return from the Wall? The Shadowlands has been known to kill people." Mito starred at Takako. "You seem . . . prepared." Mito said.
"I shared a part of my soul with him in a ritual before he left. In doing so I also prepared myself that I might lose him. I will hurt but it is what he had to do get his family honor back. It was important to him so I supported him and told him to go and do what needed to be done. When he comes back, I will be waiting for him. That is honor to me." Takako reached for and picked up the Jade Seppun Mon that Nikana had given her. She put it flat in her palm and started tracing the Mon. "He gave this to me before he left. It saved my life in Journey's End City. I used it in the ritual. It helps me remember that day, the good and the bad. I would do it all over again." Takako put her palm flat on it and smiled.
"I'll talk to Dayu, you talk to Aunt Daikako." Mito said as he put his hand on top of Takako's
"Please accept my words and think about the way you felt when I was telling you these things. Aunt Daikako-sama, I love you." And with those words Takako bowed one more time and then rose and walked out of the room. `It's up to you now, Kami. Please help her to understand'. Takako walked out to the garden to wait for a reply from her Aunt.
Isawa Takako,
It has come to my attention that you and Seppun Nikana have become close companions. I know that you have been informed of his families dishonor and that this fact does not change your opinion of him. I want you to understand that he must reclaim his family honor before he can consider moving onto a marriage.
I have also received your Declaration of Love for him. Your words are most eloquent and if this is how you truly feel then certain steps need to be taken. For this reason I have asked the Elemental Council to allow you to travel to Kyuden Seppun. It is time for you to be introduced to Seppun Nikana's family. They have been informed of your impending visit. You will have the opportunity to meet with them. You will also be spending time with Seppun Nikana's Dojo Master Seppun Yagyu. I also want the opportunity to speak with you. Maybe then you can explain your thinking. The Seppun guard who delivered this message will be escorting you here. You leave in the morning.
Daimyo Ataru
"In the morning? I am leaving in the morning? But my face still shows signs of Dayu-kun's displeasure. And how did Daimyo Ataru come into possession of the declaration? I sent it to Nikana-san's family. Aunt Daikako-sama please say something." Takako looked at her aunt with worried eyes.
"You had to know that your declaration would eventually come to his attention? Nikana-san's family is looking to reclaim their family honor. If aligning themselves through a good marriage will help them achieve this then that is probably how Daimyo Ataru found out about it. I am just glad that your brother gave his blessing on you and Nikana, as long as Nikana regains his family honor. If he does not your brother expects you to keep your promise so that this family doesn't become dishonored. Now with all of this that promise is even more important."
"Hai, I will keep my promise but it will not come to that. Nikana-san will regain his family honor. But Aunt Daikako-sama, my face?" Takako was pleading now.
"You will go as you are. It proves that you are an honorable woman. You took a beating because you believe in Nikana-san. It will show that you have no doubt in him. Wear your bruises with honor. Besides my sweet little Phoenix, you are still beautiful. Bruises can't hide your beauty. Just remember to hold yourself up. You know who you are. You know your abilities. Don't let anyone make you feel that you are any less. You go with your families blessing." Aunt Daikako smiled and patted Takako's hand. "Now go pack."
The trip to Kyuden Seppun was long and dirty. Between the summer heat and the dry air Takako felt baked by the time they arrived at the castle in the early evening. When they arrived at the gate, Takako was greeted by an official looking samurai, "Welcome Takako-sama, I am Seppun Satomu. Daimyo Ataru bids you welcome and asks that you present yourself in the morning in his main court. I will come to your room in the morning to escort you. If you will follow me I will take you to someone who can show you to the bath and to your room." Satomu bowed, turned around and started walking. Takako followed.
In the morning, Takako was escorted to Daimyo Ataru's main court. When the doors were opened Takako could see that the room was full with samurai: bushi and shugenja, courtiers, and other such official looking people. Takako took a deep breath and walked in with her head held high. She knelt down in front of Daimyo Ataru and stayed that way until he gave her leave to speak. At that point she announced, "I am Isawa Takako and I have been summoned to answer questions as to why I have declared my love for Seppun Nikana, a dishonored samurai. I have come to answer these questions truthfully. I also would like it to be known that I have declared my love for Seppun Nikana to my family. I took the punishment that my eldest brother, being the head of the family, felt I deserved and I took it standing, with honor and I will do so again today if the Seppun Clan feels that my actions require it. Seppun Nikana knows nothing of the declaration that I sent to both families, so any punishment is mine and mine alone." And with those words Takako again bowed and stayed that way until she was spoken to again.
"Isawa Takako we are not here to beat you. We are here to find out more about you. From the looks of the bruises on your face I would say you have been beat enough. The first question I have for you is about your mother and father. Who are your parents?" Daimyo Ataru asked calmly.
"Isawa Yutaka is my mother's name. I know very little about her. She died while giving birth to me. My Aunt Daikako-sama, who raised me, told me that I look exactly like my mother. My father was Isawa Kobo, a Shireikan in the Phoenix army. My father would visit me every year on my birthday at Kyuden Isawa, where I was raised. He died shortly before my gempuku." Takako answered Daimyo Ataru's question and then sat and waited for the next question.
"I knew Kobo-sama. He was an honorable and loyal samurai," Daimyo Ataru commented.
"Thank you for saying so Ataru-sama," Takako said as she bowed.
"Takako-san, I am sorry if this next question is hard to answer but I need to ask. Can you tell me of your last husband?" Daimyo Ataru looked pained to ask this question.
"I do not mind talking about Hanshiro-sama. Hanshiro-sama was a samurai serving in Kyuden Isawa. He watched me grow up and he slowly fell in love with me. When I was 13, Hanshiro-sama asked my father if he could marry me. My father agreed as long as he waited until after my gempuku. Hanshiro-sama agreed and we were married a year later. Hanshiro-sama was a wonderful man, he cared about me, he loved me, and I know he would have died to protect me. Unfortunately, someone poisoned him and killed him. Before he did die he asked me to please find beauty in the world. To not let his death destroy me. It almost did; it took me a year and a half to leave the castle. But anything beyond that point is where my journey began with Nikana-san." Takako looked peaceful when she finished with her answer.
"So how long have you known Nikana-san?" Daimyo Ataru asked bluntly.
"I meet Nikana-san at the White Orchid Festival at the beginning of spring. It was my first outing into the world since the death of Hanshiro-sama. I was unsure of my abilities and I was worried that I would not bring honor to my family. Nikana-san helped me see that as long as I did my best, I would bring my family honor. After that we were able to spend even more time together while we both served Doji Shiju. After that we were able to go to the Scorpion lands together for the Chrysanthemum Festival. I know it might seem like things have happened fast between Nikana-san and myself and I guess it has but when you find someone that you feel comfortable with, who makes the sadness in your heart go away how can anything be too fast," Takako looked at Daimyo Ataru honestly in the face.
"Do you think there has been enough time for you to learn of Nikana-san's past and ancestry?" Daimyo Ataru said frankly.
"Hai, I have learned what I need to know. I know that his grandfather ran away from his duties to protect the Emperor. What his grandfather did was unforgivable. I also know that the family had to be dishonored because of these actions. I know that Nikana-san has been working to clear his family name and I believe that he will. When I met Nikana-san I did not know his family history. I was able to learn for myself of his honor through his actions and deeds. He eventually told me of his families dishonor when our friendship was one that he felt was important enough and strong enough to withstand this news. Our friendship was strong enough to withstand the information, I had already and still believe that Nikana-san is an honorable samurai and he will soon prove this to everyone else," Takako answered.
"Takako-san, how does your daimyo and family feel about your Declaration of Love for Nikana-san?" Daimyo Ataru knew this would be the answer that truly mattered the most. Without the permission of Takako's daimyo and family none of the rest of this mattered.
"Ataru-sama, I will admit that when my family received the declaration they were not happy with me. When I arrived home, two of my brothers were there to discuss my potential dishonoring of our family. As you can tell by my face, my eldest brother was not happy about my decision. He told me that I was to have nothing more to do with Nikana-san. I told him that I could not turn my back on Nikana-san now that I had declared my love for him without losing face because his family had also received the declaration. It took several days of talking with my other brother, who I am closer to, and he talked to our eldest brother again. I went to my Aunt and told her honestly how I felt. My Aunt was the only one who had seen everything I went through when I fell in love with Hanshiro-sama and then lost him. She was able to realize that I was honest when I said that Nikana-san had won my heart. She finally agreed and then she also went to my eldest brother. It finally came down to a promise that I made my family. If Nikana-san is proved to be a coward in the Shadowlands, then I will commit Seppuku. I do that willingly. As for my daimyo, she feels that I am being honest and that she would like me to take more time getting to know Nikana-san before I marry him. But ultimately she says she trusts me and will support my decision," Takako finished her answer and waited quietly for the next question.
"Well, I think for now that will be enough. You and I will have the opportunity to talk again while you are here, but at this time I have no other questions for you. Takako-san, thank you for coming and explaining why you have taken the actions you have taken. You may return to your room and those others of the court that want to meet with you can do so then. Thank you again Takako-san." Daimyo Ataru said and nodded at Takako.
"No, thank you Ataru-sama." Takako bowed one more time, rose, and left the room.
Takako looked out on the flowers and was amazed how bright the flowers looked in the garden today. Kyuden Seppun was very peaceful castle or at least their garden was. Takako was enjoying her time here in Nikana's homeland. It was like having a part of Nikana with her.
"Takako-san," a male voice came from behind her and it startled her momentarily.
"Master Yagyu-sama, good morning," Takako said with a smile and a bow.
"Yagyu-san please, Takako-san, I was not your dojo master," Yagyu said to Takako as he walked up and sat down beside her.
"Hai, you were not my master but you are Nikana-san's and for that alone I will give you my respect. You taught him well Yagyu-sama. When we were faced by Oni no Shaiyan, he did not think about himself before putting himself in front of the oni to protect . . . to protect me. I know you feel that I cloud his mind when it comes to performing his duties. I also fear that I do that but I love him and I cannot change that now. I promise that I am trying to help him keep focused. I have not written him once since he left for the Wall because that is where his mind needs to be," Takako stopped talking and closed her eyes. She was trying to stay focused and in control of her emotions in front of Yagyu. Nikana respected him and Takako feared that any bad word from him could put an end to any chance she had with Nikana. Nikana's first duty was to his family and clan, as it should be.
"Takako-san, I came to ask if you would like to come and watch the Miharu train. It might give you a better understanding of what Nikana-san's training has been like. You two have not known each other very long and I thought you might enjoy learning more about what has helped Nikana-san become the person he is today. You will see how our clan sees the Empire. I think you will agree we have a different outlook on the way of Rokugan," Yagyu looked at Takako with questioning eyes, "This way."
"Hai," Takako said softly and with a quick bow. She followed Yagyu out of the garden.
Seppun Nikana,
I received from your family a Declaration of Love from Isawa Takako, and it read:
Genuine my love
Seppun Nikana has earned
My heart is now his.
After I read this I could not believe there could be such a foolish woman in all of Rokugan. I wanted to meet this Isawa who thought she could love a dishonored samurai. So I summoned her here, and she came. When Takako-san entered the court she walked in with her head held high. She knelt down in front of me and stayed that way until I gave her leave to speak. At that point she announced, 'I am Isawa Takako and I have been summoned to answer questions as to why I have declared my love for Seppun Nikana, a dishonored samurai. I have come to answer these questions truthfully. I also would like it to be known that I have declared my love for Seppun Nikana to my family. I took the punishment that my eldest brother, being the head of the family, felt I deserved and I took it standing, with honor and I will do so again today if the Seppun Clan feels that my actions require it. Seppun Nikana knows nothing of the declaration that I sent to both families, so any punishment is mine and mine alone.' And with those words Takako again bowed and stayed that way until she was spoken to again. Now I want you to know that holding her head up high was not an easy task with the way her face looked. One side of her face was bruised and her lip still had a cut that was healing. The entire court knew that she could have had her wounds healed by one of the many powerful shugenja in Phoenix lands but she did not. She wore them as proof that she would keep her word even when faced with retribution from her own family.
I asked her questions of her family, her last husband, how long you two have know each other, if she felt this was long enough time to know of your past and ancestry, and how her daimyo and family feels about this declaration? She answered the questions openly and honestly and I thought you might like to know what the answers to some of the more important questions.
Takako-san said that she wanted the Seppun clan to know that her love was real. That it was not based upon whether or not we felt you had honor. If it meant that she would be beat by her family and yours that didn't matter to her. She said that she had learned that you were an honorable man long before the knowledge of your families dishonor came to her. She said that you told her of this dishonor because you felt as her friend you owed her that much. Her opinion of you still did not change; in fact, she said her opinion of you being an honorable samurai grew even stronger. Her family after beating her, and then listening to her finally gave their permission for you two to proceed to get to know each other better and then marriage but she has promised to commit Seppuku if you fail in your duties at the Wall.
Everyone who has taken the opportunity to spend time with her while she has been visiting us has enjoyed her company. This includes Master Yagyu. I was able to spend more time with her in a more private setting and I was able to see just why she caught your eye. She sees the world in an interesting way. She is wise beyond her years. She has achieved enlightenment so early in life. Maybe that is why she saw things in you that no others were able to. She shared with me her love of Shinsei, haiku, and being out in a garden early in the morning. Every morning she has been here, this is where she could be found. She said being in our garden she could feel you as if you were there beside her. I believe her; I believe that she loves you.
Nikana-san, do not disappoint Takako-san. Do your duties, do them honorably. Know that when you come home, if you come home fulfilling your duty, you have your clans' permission to pursue a relationship with Isawa Takako. She is truly an Honorable woman.
Daimyo Ataru