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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 looked out over the water as the boat traveled along the coastline. The colors on land were changing. It was the beginning of the month of Shiba and the month of Bayushi would be upon them soon. She did not know much about the Crab and she was looking forward to learning about those who were willing to risk their lives so that Rokugan could be safe.
Takako was looking forward to seeing the Kaiu Wall, something that she had only heard about. She admired the Crabs dedication to the upkeep and improvements made on the Wall. She felt that Rokugan owed the Crab a great debt for all the work and lives that had been given, and yet so few felt the way she did.
Takako was preparing. The Crab Clan was like no others in Rokugan. Loud, gruff, and sometimes rude is how she had always heard them described by her Aunt Daikako. She knew not to become easily offended and to be cautious with her words. The last thing she wanted to do was offend Nikana's Hida cousins.
Takako smiled to herself. Nikana, the one person she was most looking forward to seeing again. It had been almost two months since she had said goodbye to him at Kyuden Seppun. It was the last time she had seen, talked or heard from him. She had promised to not write while he was there and she knew he would be busy with his duties and unable to write to her. That fact did not make missing him any easier, although spending the last several weeks at Kyuden Seppun with the people who were able to tell her about him was of some comfort.
Takako put her hand at her waist and lightly thumbed the hilt of Nikana's wakazashi. She had been amazed at how much comfort having it by her side had brought her for almost two months now. He was not there but a piece of him was.
Since the ritual, which she had preformed with Nikana, she could feel him. An undeniable tie had formed. When she was married to Hanshiro they had love but with Nikana there was something different. With Hanshiro she had to learn to love him because they were married but loving Nikana came without the "need to" attached. She wanted to love Nikana from the very beginning. She wondered if Nikana could feel this tie or if it was just something she was able to feel because she was the one who asked the Kami for the performing of the ritual. Maybe this was a consequence. She was unsure as yet if it were bad or good.
Then Takako started thinking about how upset Nikana would be as soon as he was informed of her arrival at the Wall. He had done everything possible to make sure she was as far away from danger as he could get her. She had tried to prepare what she might say to him when he asked why she had come, "Doji Akiko is one of my ancestors, how could I tell her no, even if there is danger." These words brought little comfort to her and she knew they would bring no comfort to Nikana. She worried now he would be in even more danger because she was there. Now he would feel the need to also protect her. He would be tested to his fullest. He had to pick the Empire and his family before her. He had to prove to everyone that he could be trusted to do what needed to be done even if it meant losing something dear to him. She was ready to die if it meant he would regain his family honor. His obtaining his families respect and honor meant more to her than anything else, even more than her own life.
The Wall was truly bigger and more impressive than she had ever imagined. Takako, Ridachi, Tetsujin and Riep'i'tch'iep had been traveling along the highway that runs the length of the wall, and they were almost at their destination. Kyuden Hida Gates was just up ahead. They were walking through the village that lies just outside the walls.
Just as they were about to step into the line for the front gate, "There is Nikana-san," Ridachi said as he pointed at the armory that stood beside the gate. Takako looked over, and yes, Nikana was standing there having his armor repaired. At that moment Nikana looked up and saw Takako; there was no smile on his face.
Nikana immediately walked over to the group. "Nikana-san, It is nice to see you," Ridachi said. Nikana did not take his eyes off of Takako, and he spoke no words.
"Nikana-sama," Takako said with a bow, her eyes still to afraid to make complete contact with Nikana's.
"Takako-san," Nikana said with only the slightest of bows, with his eyes still on her.
"Uhh, lunch. Tetsujin-san? Riep'i'tch'iep? This way," Ridachi said as he led the way to the nearest noodle parlor. Takako watched them go.
"Takako, What are you doing here?"
Takako finally looked Nikana in the eyes, "I was asked to come."
"For what reason," Nikana's words bit hard.
"I was asked to retrieve a silver and ivory Keiken..." Takako started to explain.
"Retrieve from where?" Nikana growled, for he already knew the answer.
"From the Shadowlands," Takako answered. She stood ready for what was about to happen.
"You are going into the Shadowlands? But... Who told you to do this?" Nikana asked barely holding onto his anger.
"I was not told to come, I was asked to come. I was asked to come by the Crane Clan Daimyo and his wife. His wife is Doji Akiko, one of my ancestors. I am sorry that I have angered you Nikana but as you know all to well, when you are asked to do something by your ancestors you do not say no, even if there is danger." Takako looked at Nikana. "I am sorry my love, but I had to come."
"What are you going to do after announcing yourself?" Nikana asked.
"We will be speaking with the only survivor of the first group that was sent to retrieve the Keiken," Takako knew as soon as she had said these words these were the wrongs ones to say but she could not lie to him.
"I have duties I must attend to. I will see you later," and with those words Nikana turned and walked back to the armory, leaving Takako in the street by herself.
"Thank you Hida-sama, for your time, and help," Ridachi said and the group bowed as they left the minor Hida daimyo's office.
Standing outside in the hall was Nikana. "Nikana-san, come in," the Hida daimyo said. Nikana started to walk into the office but as he did he bowed to Takako and handed her a small scroll. He walked in the office and closed the door.
Takako found a quiet place to sit down and read the scroll.
Takako-sama,
I have thought much of us while here and of how things should proceed. I have pondered how our future together should work. We are what we are and this should not be sacrificed for our love. We should go on as before we met – seeking honor and to serve the Empire. But we should do it side by side. I would hate to think that our love for one another would cause us to be untrue to ourselves and our place in the world. Further, I think our love should bind us together that we might strengthen and serve one another.
I will be honored to be your front guard into the Shadowlands.
Nikana
Takako smiled to herself, rolled the scroll back up and tucked it into her obi.
Nikana knocked lightly on the doorframe. "May I come in Takako-san?"
"Please," came the reply, somewhat muffled through the thick rice-paper door.
Nikana entered the small room closing the door behind him. Though most of her belongings remained in wicker baskets, Takako stood with her back to the door unpacking the essentials and organizing them throughout the room.
Nikana walked up behind Takako and wrapped her up in his arms – inhaling deeply to remember her scent. Takako gently dropped the scroll she held and placed her arms on top of Nikana's. "It is good to see you again Takako."
Takako maneuvered around so she could face Nikana, "I am glad to see that your duties allow you to visit me," Takako said with a bit of sarcasm as she placed a hand on Nikana's chest. Nikana loosened his embrace.
"I apologize for my behavior earlier Takako-san." Nikana dropped his arms to his side and took a small step back that turned into a bow. Rising from his bow he continued, "And I have been given leave to go with you. If you desire my protection tonight I am at your service."
"We shall see Nikana-san," Takako responded not concealing her smile.
"I submit to your whim, Takako." Nikana smiled as well. "But before you make your final decision you should know that I have managed to find some decent tea and I could be persuaded to share it with you."
Takako shook slightly from laughter, "Well, I suppose I could spare a moment or two."
Nikana and Takako settled in across from each other, a hot teapot between them.
"Your blade has never left my side Nikana. We have once again joined company, would you like it back now?"
"I wish to never leave your side...I have thought on this and decided you should keep it. Should you desire to."
"Thank you, Nikana. It has meant a lot to me." Takako took a long moment to study Nikana. He seemed tense. His eyes were still kind, around her anyway, but there was a hardness or sadness there that wasn't before. "Please, my love, tell me of your experiences here."
"There isn't much to say – but there is a lot to tell. I spent the first weeks on the Wall fighting back the occasional attack. They put me in a unit with my cousin, Hida Sayoko. When they thought me worthy we were transferred to a unit that scouted out into the Shadowlands. I've spent several weeks there. It eats at you." The sadness in Nikana's eyes intensified. "It either imparts strength or leaves weakness and I am fortunate to have returned stronger." Nikana's eyes softened as he pulled out a small worn book. "I am ashamed of the condition of the book you wrote for me but it has made it possible for your voice to be my constant companion."
Takako smiled proudly at seeing the book and its worn cover. "You should not be ashamed Nikana, its worn pages is a tribute to your feelings for me."
"Thank you." Nikana said quietly as he turned the book over in his hands. "I know you will be up to the task of venturing into the Shadowlands but I think we should leave our pride behind. We should not hesitate in sharing with each other – we should be open and honest with one another. We will be more vulnerable there than anywhere else and it helps to have the protection of a friend to ward off dark thoughts and fears." Nikana finished somberly looking at Takako. She sat there taking in what Nikana had said.
"Why don't we start now?" Nikana asked after a minute, winking at Takako. "There is something I have never shared with anyone. It has pushed me to be the best bushi I can be. It still helps to keep me focused on my duty. I have had a reoccurring dream since before I began training as a Miharu. I don't know if it will ever happen – I am not yet convinced it will – but the possibility of it happening is enough to give me greater focus and determination. I ask that you not tell anyone of this, or act on it without first consulting me. It is only a dream..."
"I understand Nikana," Takako interjected, somewhat amused at Nikana's nervousness. "You know you can trust me."
"I didn't mean to imply I don't trust you, just the opposite, which is why I..." Nikana said quickly.
Takako chuckled, "Nikana relax. I am glad you've decided to share this with me."
Nikana laughed as well, "I don't know why I'm so nervous. It's been a while since we've seen each other and I suppose I just want to make the most of the time we have. So, my dream. It always begins the same way..."
Nikana and Takako where sitting across from each other out into a small courtyard at Kyuden Hida.
"So, what did you think of my family?" Nikana asked Takako, trying to hide is nervousness.
Takako put down the teacup she was sipping from. "It was a pleasure to meet them. Though I never met your older brother Hikaru – they said he was at the Imperial capitol. Your sister Ayame was very sweet. Your mother had to keep reminder her to not ask so many questions at once. She is anxious to master the ways of the shugenja. And your younger brother Kazuma, wanted to know all about the adventures you were having. He looks up to you a great deal. And your mother...at first she was wary of me but after spending some time together I think she genuinely approves. I cannot be certain though. Her opinion of me seemed unsteady – I imagine she did not know what to make of me," Takako said with some sadness in her voice.
"I must apologize Takako-san," Nikana said after Takako had paused.
"What for Nikana?"
"I should have told you of my family before you went to meet them. There are some issues you are now involved in that you are unaware of. Please understand that what I am going to tell you I have never spoken about with anyone – not even my siblings. The marriage of my mother and father was very difficult for my family to arrange. It was hoped that my fathers Hida strength and courage would restore the family's honor but it proved very difficult. Once my father became a Seppun he found opportunities more difficult to come by and while my parents tried to hide this, it strained their relationship. They were young when they married and I suppose my father believed he could rush in and rescue a once noble family and when he encountered unexpected resistance he was frustrated. I think my mother had the same hope and she did not bear father's lack of progress well. Being a Hida my father was not well trained in the arts of courtly maneuver that were now more important as a Seppun. I think they both felt betrayed. It took years for them to develop some measure of love. I think that bearing children together helped. My father did serve honorably and found more and more opportunities. Unfortunately, he fell in battle before he could fully reclaim the families' name. This happened at a time when Hikaru was deciding what school he wanted to enter. He felt it best to hide from our shame and became a courtier. He thought it best to ignore our past, and pursue a path where he would not be as hindered because of it. This angered me greatly. To me it was proof that others were right – that we were cowards. I was determined to become a Miharu and serve the Emperor. When I came of age I entered the Miharu bushi school despite Hikaru's admonition not to. On the day of my gempukku when I took on the name by which I would be known as a samurai I chose the name Nikana. This was the name of my grandfather – as well as a Hantei Emperor. The other Miharu were shocked at my choice and my brother was livid. He blamed me for bringing our families shame out into the open so that it could never be overlooked. He thought I did it to spite him. I did it so that I could clean the name – that when I had lived my life the name Nikana would bring the memory of my deeds and not those of my grandfather. But this was only the beginning of tensions between Hikaru and I. We soon began to fight over the futures of Ayame and Kazuma. Our mother had to intervene often. I persisted and was able to ensure that Ayame was tested for her potential to commune with the Kami. They told us that she had the ability but that it was buried deep within her. I believed in her potential but all Hikaru saw was the potential for shame. I fought for her and convinced her to choose to become a shugenja. I am very proud of her. And then we fought over Kazuma. I, of course, wanted him to become a Miharu while Hikaru thought it best he become a courtier. It will still be years before Kazuma has to decide. Amidst all of this my mother has done an exceptional job of maintaining the household but she has no hope of redeeming our name," Nikana paused, a look of obvious pain on his face.
"I have always been alone in my belief that I would bring honor once again to my family. Until now," Nikana paused again, looking at Takako with a look of deep gratitude. "I am certain my mother sensed in you your belief in me and was not sure what to think of it. In her mind she does not know if you pose a greater threat or asset – her hopes have been crushed before and she is wary. I also believe she sensed how wise you are and she was probably shaken by it. You may have rekindled hope in her heart."
Takako looked down, "I am sorry that they did not believe that you would do it all along. Sometimes I do not understand why it is so easy for me to see this and yet so many others doubt it." Takako delicately put her hand on Nikana's and then she looked up at him, "I will be here beside you no matter how long it takes." Takako smiled at Nikana and gently squeezed his hand,
"Now as for Ayame, I will glad to help her with her studies as often as my duties will allow," Takako blushed slightly, "If things go as I hope I will one day be her sister and as her sister I would be honored to share my love of being a shugenja with her."
"Now that you have shared your family history with me I should do the same. Telling you about my father and brothers will take awhile but you really should know about them." Takako said and she smiled at Nikana.
"My father, Isawa Kobo, was a Shireikan in the southern Phoenix Army. I loved my father very much. I always felt that I was the one to blame for his loneliness since my mother died while giving birth to me. Every year that he came to see me I could see the pain in his eyes, I reminded him so much of my mother. Nobody ever knew that I looked into my history and discovered that my mother was also a shugenja, a very promising one. When she married my father, she did not finish her schooling because she wanted to provide my father with sons and to take care of them. That was why my father insisted that Hanshiro not marry me until after my gempuku. He wanted my schooling to be done, out of respect for my mother. Unfortunately, he died before he could see that day."
"My eldest brother, Isawa Dayu, serves as Chui at Zumiki-mihari. Since the death of our father, Dayu has been hard to understand and to love. It is a great responsibility to be the head of the family, and a great burden. He has no time to think about loving his family, but he always seems to find time to hate me. He blames me for the death of our mother. This he has said to my face. He also felt that my father cared for me the most because he would come visit me every year but he did not come visit him. My brother was 15 years old when my mother died and was already serving on his first assignment. I think this is why he did not feel badly about beating me when I declared my love for you. He could take all the rage he had felt his entire life out on me then because he felt he finally had a reason that no one would argue with. I feel sad for him. He is alone and that is not going to change." Takako wiped a tear from her cheek.
"Isawa Junji is my second brother. He was 13 when my mother died. He decided that he wanted to train at the Asako Henshin School. This fact did not please my father. He wanted all of his sons to follow him and serve in the Phoenix Clan Army. Junji felt that it was his duty to make sure that humanity stayed on track and that the Riddles and Mysteries he could discover through the school would help him do this. Something went wrong though. My brother became corrupted and ran away from his duties as a monk when I was almost 14. My father is the one who found him," Takako's voice broke and tears poured from her eyes, "my father found my brother hiding in the mountains and he thought that he could help my brother return home. My father did not know just how badly my brother had been corrupted. My brother killed my father. My brother has never been seen since." Takako put her head in her hands and wept.
Nikana stood and with a small step and crouch sat next to Takako. "I can see where you get your strength from – it's a heritage you've received from your parents and has been honed by your sorrows. Now I understand the depth of your wisdom." Unsure how to sooth her, Nikana sat with her silently, gently rubbing her back. Nikana thought silently to himself as Takako continued to cry, "If I am to be a suitable husband to her I must learn how to help her." After a while Takako seemed calm once again and she continued.
"My third brother, Isawa Yuki, was killed when he tried to save the life of Isawa Yaruko when the Phoenix children were kidnapped during the War of Spirits."
"Isawa Mito is my fourth brother and the closest in age to me. He is still 7 years older than me but he was the one brother that always tried to stay close with me. He served for a while at Kyuden Isawa but then he was promoted to Gunzo and sent to Toshi no Omoidoso, which was on the opposite side of the Phoenix lands from me. Mito and Hanshiro were friends. My brother came back to support me at the funeral when Hanshiro died. He is the one that helped me convince Dayu that you are what is best for me. Once he saw how happy I was and how I was finally able to stand up for myself and for what I believed in, he knew that you had to be honorable and someone that he could entrust his little sister to."
"I am glad you have found some affection in your family," Nikana said after a moment. Suddenly Nikana smiled, "I am glad you've told me of your family. I am proud of you – of the concern you have for your family and your devotion to them. I am proud of the courage and wisdom you have learned from your pain. I hope that I can live up to your example," Nikana finished bowing low to Takako.
"Now Takako, could you please tell me about Hanshiro-sama?" Nikana asked, a little unsure what Takako might say.
Takako sat looking intently at Nikana, "Are you completely sure that you want to know about my life with Hanshiro? I do not mind talking about him if that is truly what you want to hear about." Takako settled herself into a better position.
"Hai, he was a part of your life, and I want to know everything there is to know about you." Nikana answered.
"Very well. Hanshiro started serving as a guard at Kyuden Isawa when I was 8 years old. I was in my second year of training and I would spend several hours a day meditating in the gardens. I have always found peace while sitting in a garden. This is when Hanshiro started to notice me. I am not trying to be vain, Nikana, but I have always been beautiful, even when I was that young. I was told that my mother was the same way. Well, Hanshiro started watching out for me; he would make sure no one entered the garden when I was meditating. He watched from afar hoping I would not notice him but even then I was able to sense when he was near. I was uneasy around him. He was 10 years older than I and the only thing I had my eye on at the time was my studies." Takako shifted yet again; her words had said talking of him was not a problem but her body language was saying the opposite. It made her uncomfortable talking about a man she had loved with a man that she loved now. Maybe because she loved Nikana more than she had ever loved Hanshiro and that made her feel guilty.
"Every year my father would come to see me on my birthday and on my 13th birthday Hanshiro was waiting at the gate for him. My father told me later of their conversation. Hanshiro was eloquent in the words he used that day. He presented my father with a pearl more beautiful than any I had ever seen, a pearl that had taken him 2 years to find. He did this he said because when he asked permission to marry me, he wanted my father to see how he felt that I was the most beautiful pearl he had ever seen. That the pearl my father held in his hands was only a fraction as beautiful as I was to him. He said that he would love and cherish me like my father had done all those years. My father gave him permission to marry me as long as he agreed to wait until my gempuku, which Hanshiro gladly did. In that year I learned more about him and I tried very hard to love him but on my wedding day I did not feel love for him. I learned to love him though. He was very patient and kind. He understood I would need time to say those words to him. I eventually loved him more than I thought was possible to love someone you were told to marry." Takako smiled briefly but then it faded.
"I am sure that there is a question that you have asked yourself even though you have not asked it of me. Why did I not have a child with Hanshiro? I do not know. It was not because we did not try. I tried to give him a son. It was my duty to do that but I could not become pregnant. I did not understand this until after Hanshiro's death. The Elemental Council believes that someone in the castle was slowly poisoning him. They also believe that this poison also might have been keeping us from conceiving. That is why it took me so long after his death to return to the outside world. I was so afraid of what was out there. I could not understand why someone hated me so much that they wanted to destroy all the happiness I had or could have had in my life. There is something that I did that only the Elemental Council knows about. I asked to end my life a year after Hanshiro died. All I could think about at the time was my loneliness, my fears, and my sadness. They told me that I was put on earth to serve the Kami and the Empire and that I needed to put them before myself. That when I felt like leaving this world behind I should think about what a waste of time my life would have stood for. They helped me see that the Kami would watch over me and protect me if I would only trust them. So I did, and six months later I meet you. The Kami do care about me, there is no doubt of that in my mind anymore."
Nikana gazed on Takako with a look of compassion. "I had no idea your heart was so troubled. The Kami must have known that we need each other. I hope to bring only joy into your life. Thank you for sharing all of this with me. I feel I understand you better." Nikana reached out and gently gripped Takako's hand. "Now we can look forward to the life we will create together."
"And you Isawa Takako, what favor would you ask for?" Doji Kurohito asked.
"What I ask is not for myself Kurohito-sama. I ask you to petition the Emperor for the re-honoring of Seppun Nikana's family." Takako asked and then bowed.
"What you ask is not easy, but I will do it for you." Doji Kurohito said.
"Thank you, Kurohito-sama," Takako bowed. She then rose and left the room.
"You sent for me?" Takako asked at the door to a beautifully decorated room.
"Hai, Takako-san, come in," Doji Akiko answered, and she motioned for Takako to come in and sit down.
Takako entered the room and bowed. She did not rise from her bow.
"Takako-san, please rise," Doji Akiko asked softly.
"I am honored that you would want to speak with me, Akiko-sama. I am unsure why you would want to speak with me though." Takako said as she sat across from her ancestor.
"I wanted to tell you how pleased I was with your actions," Akiko said softly.
"You asked me to do an errand for you and as my ancestor I would never tell you no," Takako said plainly.
"I am not speaking of the errand, Takako-san. I am speaking of your favor. You could have asked for anything for yourself but instead you thought of someone else. Why?" Akiko asked.
"I knew he would not ask for himself. I know him quite well Akiko-sama and I know that he deserves the favor I asked for." Takako said, as she looked Akiko in the eyes.
"And because you love him?" Akiko asked.
"Hai, I do love him, but I also feel he is worthy of being re-honored," Takako said. "I am assuming you have heard of my declaration from my family? Takako asked.
"No. I have heard of no declaration. I could tell by the act itself. Truly selfless acts only come from love, and what you did today was truly selfless. Have you declared your love for him?" Akiko asked with the faintest of smiles on her face.
"Hai. I declared it to my family and his. My brother, after much... talking, gave me his blessing," Takako answered.
"I would suggest, you now go home and tell your family what has happened. I will prepare a letter for you to take back with you. You will need to talk with Shiba Mirabu and receive his permission to marry Seppun Nikana. I know it has not been formally announced but it will be as soon as the Seppun find out what you have done here today. At that point, you should probably travel to Kyuden Seppun because I am sure there will be several people wanting to speak with you there. I am proud of you Little Phoenix," Akiko said and she bowed to Takako.
"Thank you, Akiko-sama," Takako bowed and then left the room.
"Takako-san, how are you this morning?" Daikako asked as she walked into the garden.
"Better than the last time I stood here. How are you Aunt Daikako-sama?" Takako asked as she smiled warmly at her aunt.
"Fine. I am glad you have made it home safely. I was told that you went to the Shadowlands on an errand for the Crane Clan. Did everything go as planned? Did you see Nikana-san while you were there?" Daikako asked. The last question seemed, to Takako, the one she had the most interest in.
"Hai, everything went as planned. We were able to find Hidas' First Wife's Keiken. It was said to cure the taint. We then presented it to the Crab Clan in behalf of the Crane Clan, so now their alliance is even stronger. I did it more for Akiko-sama then to help the to clans become closer but having them closer also means peace and that is always a good thing. As it turns out, the Keiken does remove taint. I was able to use it on one of my traveling companions, with his permission of course." Takako finished her answer and sat there.
"My sweet Phoenix, you have not answered all my questions," Daikako said curtly.
"Hai, I did see Nikana-sama while I was there," Takako answered.
"And," Daikako looked liked she expected more.
"You asked if I saw him and I said hai. What else are you wanting to know?" Takako was having a hard time not breaking out in a smile. She knew this was irritating her aunt but she was having fun.
"Was he happy to see you? Has he been hurt? Does he think he will regain his family honor anytime soon?' Daikako was now starting to get mad.
"Relax, Aunt Daikako-sama. I will answer your questions. I just wanted to make sure that you really wanted to know them first. Was he happy to see me? No, not so much. He did not want me anywhere near the Shadowlands, just like I am sure you were not happy when you found out that I had been asked to go there. He eventually came to understand that I had to be there. He asked to be my front guard when we went into the Shadowlands and I came back alive and in one piece. Has he been hurt? Nothing major and no taint. Does he think he will regain his family honor soon? Yes, he does. I on the other hand know that his family is about to be re-honored by the Emperor." Takako said with a smile.
"I have heard nothing of this, how would you know?" Daikako asked.
"Because I was allowed one favor for accomplishing the errand for Doji Kurohito. My favor was for Kurohito-sama to petition the Emperor for the re-honoring of Seppun Nikana's family. He agreed to do go to the Emperor for me." Takako sat and waited to see what her aunt's reaction would be.
Daikako stood up, slapped Takako, and walked off.
"Well, she also will not be sad to see me go," Takako said to herself. Takako sat there in the Phoenix garden's for the last time, and cried.
Takako heard a knock at the door to her room, "Hai,"
The door opened and there stood her aunt. "May I come in?" Daikako asked.
"Hai, Daikako-sama, you may come in." Takako looked away as she came into the room. She was finishing the packing of her belongings.
"Takako-san, I am sorry for earlier. Will you please forgive me?" Daikako asked and she bowed.
"You are forgiven, Daikako-sama." Takako said and she continued to pack.
"Why are you packing everything?" Daikako asked, now that she finally realized what Takako was doing.
"Because I have received permission from Shiba Mirabu to marry Seppun Nikana and I am packing to leave for Kyuden Seppun. I will be staying there until our wedding. At that point I will be Seppun and will not be returning to Kyuden Isawa. You and Dayu-san have made it clear to me that I am no longer wanted in this family. So I will embrace my new family. This will also give me time to learn more about Nikana before we marry. I will inform you and my brothers when and where the wedding will take place so that you may attend. At that point whether or not you attend is total up to you." Takako said in a cold somber voice.
"Not want you. I have never said that I do not want you in our family anymore." Daikako muttered.
"Daikako-sama, I love you but I will not be struck by anyone, anymore, for doing what I feel is the right thing to do. He deserves to be re-honored and I knew he would not ask for this himself. There was nothing more that I wanted or needed besides that. Now, I am sorry but I must finish packing, Ridachi and I leave in the morning." And with those words Takako turned her back on her aunt and continued to pack, and as she packed she cried.
The horses seemed calmer than normal. Not that they were calm but they seemed to draw strength from each other with so many of them in one place. They had set out from Kyuden Hida not too long ago but they still had some ways to Kyuden Hiruma.
"Nikana-san, you lead the next flanking patrol," Hida Kanko commanded.
"Hai Kanko-sama," Nikana bowed in his saddle. "Sayoko-san, Hideki-san, Nori-san, Isei-san. With me."
The five samurai headed away from the large main caravan body making their way across the plain. Some Oni were attracted by the scent of the horses and they needed to be spotted and driven off. Small groups of samurai constantly scouted the terrain surrounding the caravan.
"Sayoko was an obvious choice," Nikana thought to himself. "We have known each other since we were small children. She was my only friend in childhood and she has been a dear friend to me through the years – we know what the other will do instinctively. Hideki is stronger than an ox – he will be useful if we're outnumbered. Nori is quick and fearless – he will help us head off the enemy and be an example. Isei has the eyes of a falcon – very little escapes his notice."
They made it out to their mark and paralleled the traveling route, zig-zagging around terrain making sure that no surprises lay in wait behind low hills or in shallow gullies. Nikana had been part of such groups on many occasions since serving on the Wall but this was his first time leading one. There wasn't much to it – just focus on the task at hand.
They rode for several hours before Hiruma Tozan, the strike leader of all the patrols on their flank, spotted something hiding in a small copse of trees – his bannerman gave the signal and the patrols began to maneuver for an assault. Nikana's group began to speed up and get into ranks – they were the only group to approach the copse from this side and they had the greatest distance to cover. If they wanted any action they would need to hurry.
"HALT!" barked Nikana. "Follow me, hurry!" Nikana wheeled his horse around and headed back the way they had come. Hida Nori followed Nikana instantly, the others not sure what to do. Moments later their horses thundered after Nikana and Nori as they saw what had burst forth from an unseen ravine. They were both massive when at their full height with lanky gray bodies. Their hollow eye sockets had no eyes and they each carried a long slim blade in one hand and in the other something that had the look of a large melon. Their speed was also impressive – they could outpace a horse over short distances.
"We can still get them before they get to the main group. Whatever they have with them they seem determined to make it to the caravan."
Nikana dug his heels harder into his horse and Nori was doing the same, the others close behind. The distance between the samurai and the Oni lessened.
"They will not escape us," Nikana thought triumphantly to himself as he drew his katana and sat up higher in his saddle.
Nikana rode up along side the first one while Nori came up from behind the second one. They needed to slow them down so the other three could engage as well.
The Oni's blade slashed at Nikana as it stopped and tried to sidestep him. Nikana deftly deflected the strike and spiraled his movement to counterstrike the creature across its sword arm. Nikana heard a loud grunt and as he turned his horse to re-engage the Oni he saw Nori stagger as a slim blade slammed into his shoulder and cut into his neck. The grunt soon died into a gurgle.
"Nori is dead, there is no changing that." Nikana told himself as he spurred his horse after the Oni he was chasing. The Oni seemed to be protecting the green melon in its off hand. It swung it's blade and Nikana had no way of deflecting it. The blade struck the horses front legs as Nikana jumped from the saddle. Hida Hideki charged in on the other side of the Oni – Hida Sayoko and Hida Isei behind him heading for the other Oni. Hideki swung his tetsubo and the Oni ducked, rolled and jumped lithely over the downed squealing horse – right towards Nikana. Nikana moved head on into the creature his sword stabbing upward high into it's chest. It moved as if to lob the melon at Nikana. Nikana withdrew his blade and spun to it's sword hand side cutting out at its leg – driving it to it's knees. Hideki's tetsubo cracked hard into its skull driving it to the ground where it lay still and silent.
Nikana sprinted over to where the others had gone. The other Oni was staggering to it's knees with both it's hands at its neck trying to stem the gushing blood. A deep rumble issued forth from it as blood spurt through its fingers.
"It's laughing," Nikana realized in horror. Isei lay some yards away motionless, his horse laying quietly on top of his body. Sayoko stood with her blood smeared blade out before her looking at the Oni in horror. The green melon lay in pieces around it. Isei and his horse were covered in long green tendrils that seemed to weave in and out of their flesh. The tendrils throbbed slightly as if they were drawing blood and life away from it's victims.
"No!" Nikana gasped. Sayoko was also partially covered in the green tendrils. They burrowed into her skin and began to throb. The Oni began stumbling to its feet as Nikana reached it.
"Yeeeahhh!" screamed Nikana as he severed it's head in one clean cut.
Nikana rushed over to Sayoko.
"Stay back, Nikana" Sayoko rasped. She labored to draw in breath.
"You are going to be fine. We'll get a shugenja to look at you." Nikana turned to issue an order to Hideki, who had dismounted and joined Nikana.
"I'm not going to die yet Nikana. My death will be slow and painful. But my death is sure." Sayoko dropped her katana, the tendrils sliding down her arm and constricting.
Nikana looked back to Sayoko, his look of horror deepening. "No."
"Yes, Nikana. My dear cousin. But before it lets me die it will take my soul. Please, save me from this." Sayoko dropped weakly to her knees. Bowing slightly forward exposing her neck.
"May the Kami forgive me," Nikana whispered as he cleaned his blade quickly. "May the light of your life inspire us who remain." Sayoko's head fell peacefully from her shoulders.
"Drink!" growled Hideki, pushing another glass of sake in front of him. Nikana lifted the glass slowly. Apparently the Crab didn't believe in sulking or grieving in private. At least Hida Hideki did not. Nikana drunk down the sake quickly and picked up the next glass. "Now your catching on," Hideki declared slapping Nikana on the shoulder. "Hida Sayoko was a great samurai," Hideki's voice turned more somber. "She was a fearless bushi who served her daimyo and the Empire with honor and valor. She faced death calmly and surely. She is an example to us all." Hideki sealed his proclamation with downing another glass of sake.
"Hida Sayoko was a true friend and comrade. I could put my life in her hands without hesitation. The heavens will be brighter with her passage." Nikana drunk slowly from the next glass of sake. Nikana didn't normally drink much but he allowed himself to overindulge a bit. Enough to barely deaden his senses or reflexes but certainly not enough to relieve the pain he felt. No, he had lead her into battle and her death – feeling pain at her passing was the least he owed her. Nikana's head swam a bit and his vision blurred. He was on the field again, Sayoko's standing before him – looking him in the eyes, an expression of determination on her face. Her face blurred and Takako's appeared in it's place. The sake glass shattered in Nikana's grip. A low growl escaped from his throat. On the field, in his mind, he hesitated. He couldn't kill Takako. The tendrils turned black and oily tar leached into her darkening veins – Takako's expression pleading her voice cutting him, "Help me Nikana, why don't you help me?" Her pleas were too much and Nikana's blade fell ending her suffering. Nikana bowed his head at the table, the tears falling from his eyes mingling with the blood flowing from his hand.
"Welcome, Seppun-sama," the monk bowed politely to Nikana. "How can I be of service?"
"I'd like a quiet, out of the way place to meditate. And, if it's not too much trouble, I may be staying here for a long while."
"That won't be a problem, please follow me."
Nikana sat in the dark silence of the temple, meditating deep into his heart.
While such a thing was still unthinkable, Nikana began to understand why a samurai would give into the numbness of liquid void. He did not know how he was going to deal with the pain.
"I have to find a way. I must move beyond this pain. Others are depending on me. Takako still needs me. Does she? Can she? I could not save Sayoko why would I be able to save Takako? Takako trusts me but I will fail her." Nikana shuddered as he saw her pleading face again. "Even my ancestors have abandoned me. They have not visited me in days – at least when they berated me it was a sign of some concern. Now my failure has silenced them." Nikana sat there for many hours, eventually succumbing to weariness and falling asleep.
Nikana stood in a field near Kyuden Seppun. The sun shone brightly and a gentle warm breeze rolled through the meadow. A perfect day. But it also had a familiar feel – this was not precisely a dream.
"Nikana," intoned a cold female voice behind him.
Nikana turned around and dropped to the ground in the lowest bow he could manage. He had never been visited by her but he had no doubt who she was.
"You disappoint me. Have you not been taught the ways of a bushi? You carry my name and yet you act like a coward before your pain. Has your time with Takako-san imparted no wisdom to your soul?" Each phrase made Nikana wish he could bow lower into the dirt. "Since you seem lost I will offer you wisdom: The true worth of a samurai is not whether he is injured but in how he carries himself afterwards. Now rise and go do what you know in your heart you must."
Isawa Takako made her way slowly to the gates of Kyuden Seppun uncertain what lay for her beyond. She had received permission to wed Nikana from Shiba Mirabu but permission had not yet been granted by Seppun Kiharu, the daimyo of the Seppun clan.
Upon entering the outer couryard of Kyuden Seppun Takao was greeted by Ayame, Nikana's younger sister. Ayame bowed low to Takako. "Takako-sama, you are expected," Ayame tried to say as smoothly as she could but her efforts were spoiled by the wide grin on her face.
"It is good to see you again Ayame, how are your meditations coming along," Takako asked with real interest.
"They are going ok, I suppose Takako-sama. Please, if you would, follow me," Ayame asked with some difficulty as servants came to take Takako's belongings. Ayame seemed anxious to say more but some duty also weighed on her.
Takako followed Ayame quietly for many minutes as they made their way into Kyuden Seppun. They crossed a nightingale floor to a set of large ornate doors. Takako grew nervous – she had never been to this part of the castle before.
Several Miharu stood watch outside the door and one approached Takako. Takako removed her wakizashi – the one Nikana had given her – and put it out for him to take. "Takako-sama, that will not be necessary. Follow me." He nodded at Ayame and dismissed her.
The doors opened and Takako entered. Seppun Kiharu sat at the end of the hall, his wife at his side and another Seppun shugenja on the other. Several courtiers as well as Miyako, Nikana's mother, were also present but their numbers seemed even smaller in the large room.
Takako made her way to the middle of the room and bowed low, her face on the floor.
"Rise, Takako-san," Kiharu said. "Join us, we have much to discuss." Takako made her way to a low table around which the other sat and took her place across from Kiharu.
A servant poured Takako some tea as Kiharu continued. "The Emperor has decided to restore honor to Nikana's name. His families shame will be no more. He has ventured into the Shadowlands of his own free will and returned victorious. However, I understand you also had something to do with this."
"Hai, Kiharu-sama. Upon returning from the Shadowlands Doji Kurohito-sama asked me if there was anything he could do for me. It appears you know the rest," Takako replied meekly taking a small sip from her cup.
"I don't think anyone in this clan will doubt your love for Nikana and your devotion to him," Kiharu complimented Takako. "We've also received word from Shiba Mirabu-sama that your request to marry Nikana has been granted."
Kiharu paused, looking Takako in the eyes. "There is still a matter or two that need to be settled. I've received a letter from the Wall written by Nikana-san. I think it appropriate that I read it to you."
"I continue my duties on the Kaiu Wall but I can no longer hold off writing this declaration. I announce my love and devotion to Isawa Takako. I have spent much time with her in my service to the Empire and I have found her to be an invaluable friend and counsel. She has been an example of courage and strength. She has a deep connection to the Kami and I have the greatest respect for her. I love her and I request permission to marry her. I have given her my wakizashi as a symbol of my devotion to her. She carries my heart with her."
In the silence that followed the reading of Nikana's words Takako's words caught in her throat.
Seeing Takako's emotion, Naoko – Kiharu's wife – spoke, "His words and actions do you honor, Takako-san. We do not doubt his devotion to you. We find it a remarkable thing that you have loved him in return. You and Nikana-san have rendered great service to the Empire side by side."
Kiharu, continued where his wife left off, "Now, Takako-san. I informally welcome you into our family." Kiharu bowed to Takako and Takako returned the bow – going as low as the table would allow.
Takako sat in a little alcove that looked out over the green fields that surrounded Kyuden Seppun. She had come across this place when she had been trying to find her way around the castle. It was a quiet place where she could be alone and think about everything that had been happened. It was also a beautiful view of the surroundings.
"Takako-san?" a voice said from beside her.
Takako jumped, "Miyako-sama, good morning."
"I am sorry if I scared you. I did not expect you to be here. I thought I was the only one who knew of the spot," Miyako said as she sat down beside Takako. "The view is beautiful from here is it not?"
"It truly is Miyako-sama," Takako smiled and looked back out over the view.
"Takako-san, I hope some day soon you can come to think of me as your mother, you are going to be marring my son." Miyako said as she looked at Takako. "I am also sorry for ever doubting you."
"You need not apologize. You were not the only one to doubt my intentions. I am glad though, that I have finally proven myself to be someone you can trust. I truly love your son. I did not think that I would ever be this happy again but he made it possible."
Takako and Miyako sat there quietly for several minutes. There was a light breeze blowing and the sun was lightly covered with clouds. "Takako, will you give up your duties as a shugenja after marrying Nikana?" Miyako asked quietly.
"No. I plan to stay serving by his side as long as I can before a pregnancy requires me to stay here. We work well together," Takako said.
"Are you able to have children?" Miyako asked bluntly.
"To be honest, I do not know. It is true I was not able to conceive with Hanshiro-sama but the Elemental Council could not say if that was because of me or because the poison Hanshiro-sama was being given. I hate saying that I hope it was the poisons fault but..." Takako's words trailed off.
"Do you want to have a child with my son?" again a blunt question from Miyako.
"Hai, Miyako-sama, hai." Takako had tears pooling in her eyes at this point, "After everything Nikana has done to bring back your family honor, he deserves to have a son to continue the family name. He deserves so much more but that is the least I can give to him."
"I am sorry I have made you cry Takako but I needed to know if you were ready to give up your life as a shugenja to be a mother," Miyako said.
"Miyako-sama, I do not think that I have to give it up. I can teach, and teaching is just as rewarding. It is still helping the Empire. That is why I have enjoyed spending so much time with Ayame. She hungers for knowledge and I remember what that was like at that age. I enjoy sharing with her a little of the knowledge that I have. It also gives me the opportunity to be around someone who loves Nikana as much as I do." Takako put her hand on Miyako's hand, "You have wonderful children, and I look forward to a day when you have wonderful grandchildren."
"Hai, so do I." Miyako said, and her and Takako sat there and enjoyed the afternoon together.
Takako and Ayame sat in the garden meditating; this was how they started their mornings since Takako's return to Kyuden Seppun. Takako was trying to help Ayame relax more and become more in tune with her surroundings. Takako knew that once Ayame could master this, the other aspects of her training would come easier to her. Ayame was finding it hard to keep her mind open and relaxed; her mind wandered easily. Takako could sense that Ayame had lost her focus.
Takako took a slow, deep breath, "Ayame-san, what is troubling you?" Takako asked as she opened her eyes.
Ayame blew a strand of hair out of her face, "I am sorry, Takako-sama, my mind just does not want to focus this morning. I am not sure why. Nothing really comes into my mind, I just start feeling... blurred. Like there is something out there but it just is not close enough to see. When I try to push it away and refocus on what I am doing, it pushes back even harder but I still cannot see what it is. Could you feel my mind wandering?" Ayame asked.
"I cannot reach into your mind Ayame but I can feel when something is not quite right with my surroundings. I am even more in tune with that feeling when I am meditating. I could sense that you were frustrated and having problems focusing. It is an ability I have had since I was small." Takako said as she smiled and patted Ayame's hand. "Do not worry though, you are getting better at focusing and meditating. With a little more practice you will be able to sense the things around you. To be a good shugenja, it is important to be able to know when to call on the Kami and when not to. The last things you need are bad spirits interfering with your magic."
Ayame looked down at the ground, "Can I ask you a question?"
"Anything, Ayame."
"Even if it is about you and Nikana?" Ayame asked looking sheepish.
Takako smiled, "Especially then. I have nothing to hide when it comes to your brother."
Ayame looked back up at Takako, "Is that how you knew Nikana would re-honor the family?"
"Yes and no. When Nikana and I first met, he asked if he could meditate with me in the garden in the mornings. I had never been asked this from a bushi before, so I thought it a bit strange at first. But I did not let that stop me from saying yes. After that first morning, your brother intrigued me. I could feel so much going on inside of him. I wanted to spend more time with him because... there was something... something that I could not quite touch and I had never had that problem before. He was unique, and I liked that. But I discovered that your brother was honorable and would re-honor your family, through his actions. There have been several times that I could have died but I did not because your brother would not let it happen. Your brother is a dedicated Miharu, one that you can be proud of." Takako wiped a tear from Ayame's cheek, "Is there anything else you would like to know?"
"Are you going to marry my brother?"
"She is if I have anything to say about it," a male voice said from behind them.
"Nikana!" Ayame squealed. She jumped up from her tatami mat, and then ran and jumped into his arms. "Your home, your home, your home."
Takako sat back and smiled. As much as she also wanted to run into his arms, his little sister deserved and needed to be there more.
Nikana closed his eyes and hugged Ayame for a long moment. "It is good to see you again, little shugenja," Nikana said proudly kissing her on the head. Hand in hand Nikana and Ayame made their way over to Takako.
Takako bowed to Nikana, "Nakana-sama I am glad to see you've returned safely from the Wall." Nikana let go of Ayame's hand and quickly hugged Takako.
"It is good to see you again my love," Nikana whispered in Takako's ear. "There is something I need to talk with you about."
Takako hugged Nikana in return. "Of course, but first I think..."
Takako was interrupted by a messenger entering the courtyard. "Please excuse the interruption, Nikana-sama, Takako-sama. But Nikana-sama's presence is required."
Nikana and Takako let go of each other, still holding hands. "Where should I report?" Nikana asked of the messenger.
"I will escort you from the bath house, Nikana-sama," the messenger bowed.
"Very well. Takako-sama, I will meet up with you later," Nikana said, unsure what to make of this immediate summons. Takako wore a curious smile on her face.
After a quick bath Nikana was robed in his best kimono and followed the messenger throughout Kyuden Seppun.
Nikana's thoughts raced as he considered his situation. "The household is so quiet – perhaps I've been gone too long and have forgotten what my home is like? What could be so urgent that they want to speak with me as soon as I've entered the castle? I have so much to tell Takako – she seems so bright and hopeful. I hope she understands it may still be some time before we can be wed – my family's honor must still be restored and I must still get permission from her clan daimyo to marry her. We will find a way. Is it my imagination or are fewer guards on duty? The nightingale floor? Has Kiharu-sama been this impressed with my service?" Nikana's thoughts quieted as he stood before the large ornate doors that led into the ancestral hall of the Seppun Clan.
Nikana reached for his daisho. "Nikana-sama, Kiharu-sama has given you permission to carry your daisho this day," The senior guard said bowing. The other two guards swung the door open as the messenger disappeared down a hall.
Nikana stepped into the room prepared for whatever lay beyond. Upon glancing the scene before him, Nikana had to do his best not to look surprised. Over a hundred Miharu guardsmen stood watch along both sides of the hall. Seppun Kiharu sat at the end of the hall with his entire entourage arrayed around him. Nikana's mother and younger siblings were also sitting near Kiharu. And so was Takako.
Nikana bowed immediately and stayed on the floor.
"Approach, Nikana-san" Kiharu's voice carried easily throughout the otherwise silent hall. Nikana made his way to the center of the hall where a small stand stood. "How is this possible?" Nikana thought to himself as he placed his daisho on the stand and bowed once again to Kiharu.
"Rise, Nikana-san." Nikana rose from his bow to see Kiharu nod at a figure he hadn't noticed before. A Miya Herald walked out from among the courtiers with a parchment in hand and in a loud resounding voice proclaimed, "For his courageous and selfless service to the Empire and his unwavering spirit in the face of the vileness of the Shadowlands I declare that Seppun Nikana's honor is restored to him and his family." The Miya Herald then bowed and finished, "So decrees Emperor Toturi III." All the samurai in the hall then bowed to honor the Emperor.
"Seppun Nikana-san, we welcome you back into our bosom. We have been told of your deeds and are honored to have you among us." Kiharu bowed his head to Nikana. "We have another announcement to make. Isawa Takako-san and Nikana-san have declared their love for one another and have expressed a desire to marry. We have had time to get to know Takako-san and believe that Nikana has displayed considerable wisdom in his desire to marry her. We welcome her into our family. Shiba Mirabu has approved of this union. Nikana-san and Takako-san will be wed at winter court."
Golden light filled the country side as the sun sat low on the horizon. Nikana and Takako sat close together on a bench looking out over a small garden. The silence between them had lasted for a long while as they took comfort and joy simply being in the presence of each other.
"Takako-san, would you help me unravel a mystery?"
"I offer you what wisdom I have. Of which mystery do you speak?"
"I wonder how the Emperor came to know of my service and was moved to restore my families honor."
"Ah, a very good question, Nikana. There comes a time when..." Nikana kissed Takako lightly on the cheek, silencing her.
"Thank you. You have done for me what I never would have for myself – you understand me very well. I owe you everything."
"It is I who owe you, Nikana. You have saved my life on many occasions."
Nikana took Takako's hand in his. "Then lets just be happy we have each other."
Another long moment of silence took them as the sun began it's final molten drop into the horizon.
"You said there was something you wanted to tell me, Nikana." Takako said tracing shapes with her finger on Nikana's hand.
"I have endeavored to protect you – to be a barrier of steel between you and those who would harm you. I have not always succeeded," Nikana said, his voice hardening as he recalled the hail of Mantis arrows and the injury Takako took as they escorted Doji Shiju. "And I fear what may happen to you."
"Nikana, I have only been barely injured and you've dealt with any threat. I am safe with you now."
"Sayoko is dead." Tears began to form in Nikana's eyes and Takako turned her full attention to his face, her hand gripping his now.
"I'm sorry. Tell me what happened."
"I was leading us on a patrol. We fought several oni and she was injured. Her injuries would have eventually claimed her life and it fell to me to end her suffering and prevent her from becoming tainted before the end."
Takako could see the pain and fear in Nikana's eyes. Not for Sayoko – for some reason it was for her.
"She was fortunate to have you near. You preserved her spirit and ensured her an honorable death. You cannot change destiny, only accept it."
"I know." Nikana barely said through gritted teeth. "But there are some fates I will not accept." Nikana relaxed a bit as he gently moved some of Takako's hair out of her face. "But you do speak wisdom – a painful lesson my heart had to learn before I returned to you. Before you Takako, I had nothing to lose and no one to disappoint – except for myself. In the Shadowlands, I've had to face my deepest fear – losing you. I have learned to accept this fear. I don't know how long we have together here in this life or what awaits us in the life to come but I intend to make the most of what fate gives us."
Takako's eyes began to tear up and Nikana embraced her. The last shard of the sun slipped below the horizon and the garden fell into shadowy twilight.
Takako pulled apart from Nikana just enough so they could talk face to face. "There is something that we need to talk about. I've told you that I'm not sure if I can bear children. I need to know how you feel about this."
"I was wondering when you would want to confront this. Would I like children? If the Kami send us children I will love them and find joy in them. If the Kami do not send us children then I will find joy in having you all to myself." Nikana smiled trying to get Takako to smile as well. Takako's face did not change. "I am serious Takako-sama. I mean what I said."
"Are you sure?"
"Absolutely." Nikana kissed Takako on the forehead and they sat there holding each other long into evening.
Nikana and Takako were riding beside each other, as they headed to Kyuden Bayushi for Winter Court. The trip on the boat had been a peaceful one and the ride to the castle looked to be the same. Maybe it had been a little too peaceful, Nikana had noticed that Takako had been quiet for quite sometime now so he looked over at her. She was deep into her thoughts. He had noticed that during their journey on the boat, Takako had spent sometime talking with one of the Hidden Guard. Afterwards, Takako had become pensive for a while. Normally, he would leave Takako to her thoughts but with their wedding day approaching he was concerned and a little impatient waiting for her to share with him what was on her mind.
"Takako-san, what troubles your mind?"
"Hmm? Oh, nothing," Takako mumbled.
"Takako, you are holding something inside of you. I can tell. You are the woman I love but you are also my friend, please tell me what has been bothering you these past several days."
"Well, I did not want to worry you, Nikana. With our impending marriage I have some important decisions that must be made. Our future depends on these decisions."
"How do these decisions involve the Hidden Guard?"
Takako looked over at Nikana and smiled, "You never let me out of your site do you?"
"No, I do not. I would not be a good Miharu if I did."
"Well, my love, I spoke with one of the Hidden Guard because I wanted to know if they would allow me to join their school after our marriage."
"But Takako, why? Why would you want to give up the Isawa School that you love so much?"
Takako smiled, shook her head and looked up into the sky. Nikana could see tears pooling at the sides of Takako's eyes. "My love, I do this for several reasons. The first reason being because I would need to return to Kyuden Isawa which would put me in the position of being around my Aunt again. I did not tell you this but when I told my Aunt about the favor I asked for, she slapped me.
Nikana looked over at Takako, "She struck you. Takako why did you not tell me this?"
"Because it would have only angered you, as it is right now. The physical pain that I felt that day was nothing compared to the hurt that I felt inside my heart. I have always looked up to my Aunt but after being struck by her I realized that she only cares about the family, not me. If she truly understood me, she would have been pleased with the favor I had asked for; even Doji Akiko was pleased with me. All she saw was a lost opportunity for my older brother to move further up or for the family to get something that it didn't already have. I still love my clan, I will always honor my ancestors, and love Mito-san but as far as I am concerned after we marry the rest of my family no longer exists."
"I can certainly understand your desire to be accepted into a new family and turn away from those who you feel have turned their backs on you, but are you certain you also want to leave your School behind as well just to avoid them? I'm sure something could be worked out."
"I have more reasons, Nikana. Second, only Seppun Shugenja are trusted around the Emperor and other high-ranking daimyo of the Seppun clan. I want to be the best companion I can be to you. Nikana, I have never told you this before but in the back of my mind I hold a deep desire for you," Takako smiled at Nikana as one of his eyebrows arched and a small smile appeared on his lips. "Yes, I have that desire too but that is not the one I speak of now. This is the desire that some day you will become a daimyo in the Seppun Clan. I know that you do not think that this will ever be possible but you also thought regaining your family honor would be almost impossible and look how that has changed. My love, I know that if I receive Hidden Guard training I will be in a better position to help you and help my new clan."
Nikana looked at Takako in silence, a look of surprise on his face. "Being a daimyo is something that I can honestly say I have never thought of. I am honored you would think me capable of it. With you at my side I'm sure I would have the wisdom to lead. I am also... impressed with your selflessness and devotion to your new clan. Please continue."
"The third reason and the one I must say that is influencing me the most right now, is that I do not want to leave your side if it is not necessary. If I were to stay with the Isawa School, then I would have to leave you to train. I have no desire to do that. You are my future and I do not want to look back at my past after we are married. The Seppun School is where I belong."
The silence hung longer in the air between them this time, Nikana still staring at Takako. "I don't know why but I am still surprised sometimes at your devotion to me. I hope that in time I can prove such devotion to you. Have the Hidden Guard been accepting of you?" Nikana asked
"Hai. They have been nothing but kind and understanding. They have agreed to let me attend the school. On the boat is when they told me of their decision. I had asked to join them before we had left Kyuden Seppun, the day after our forthcoming marriage was announced."
"Are you sure you want to do this?"
"Hai and hai."
"What?"
"Well, the question you asked could have been about two different things. Am I sure that I want to give up the Isawa School and join the Seppun School? Hai, I look forward to the new challenges that this will bring. The Hidden Guard are strong in areas that I have always been weak in. It will be a new learning experience for me. Am I sure that I still want to marry you? Hai. There is no doubt in my mind that the Kami lead me to you and that I am to marry you."
"I hope you were not offended by my inquiries. Thank you for indulging my impatience. I certainly trust your wisdom. I only wanted to know if you were sure. Being reborn into a new clan is a significant transition and can sometimes be traumatizing. I just want you to be happy. You, of course, have my full support." Nikana bowed to Takako from his saddle.
"My love, you could not offend me. I am sorry that I did not come to you sooner with this decision. I need to learn that I should to come to you when things are troubling me." Takako looked up as Nikana looked away. "I see something troubles your heart as well."
"Hai, there is but I hesitate to mention it. I don't want to ruin this moment or our time here. My training as a Miharu has impressed upon me the value of seeing past appearances and expecting the worst."
"I'm sure that if it troubles your heart then it is not a matter that should be so easily dismissed and is worth discussing."
Nikana looked again at Takako. "Our marriage will be forged in a furnace. At least we knew who our enemies were when entering the Shadowlands. We will not have this luxury at Winter Court. We may have nothing to fear but then again we may not know of danger until it is too late."
"I see." Takako said, a thoughtful look on her face.
"I won't ruin the celebration of our union with my dour thoughts but I think that we should exercise some caution. I'm telling you something that you already know – I shouldn't have said anything."
"No, I'm glad you brought it up. We should be cautious. What do you have in mind?"
"All I ask is that you continue to be patient with me. By the time we leave Winter Court you may tire of having me as your constant companion," Nikana joked, trying to lighten the mood.
"Never," Takako responded with a smile.
"I think your suggestion is best – there should not be anything unsaid between us, whether it be troubling or joyous. No regrets," Nikana said firmly.
Takako took her eyes off of Nikana and looked ahead down the road. "It looks like our new life is just up ahead. I am ready if you are?"
"Hai," Nikana said, his gaze following Takako's – both of them staring into the future, smiling, as they rode into Kyuden Bayushi.