Chapter 11 - Return to Honshu

The dark forest returned to view as Ashitaka and San reached the real world. It was still dark as the moon remained a reddish tint. After a few seconds, however, the red faded away as the original color returned to the moon's surface. The duo made their way back through the forest to reach the docks.

Upon returning to Yakul and Mori, Ashitaka and San saw that the other villagers had begun to surround the dead body of the man that the mononoke killed. His body was found in the water, washing up against the wooden beams underneath the dock platform. The villagers were silent, as if unsurprised by the attack.

"What will we do if this keeps happening?"

"I might need to move away..."

"Do not worry," Ashitaka's voice carried over the commotion. They turned to see the warrior speak. "I have killed the spirit that was attacking this town."

One man stepped out from the crowd. "And do you have any proof of this?" He asked.

Ashitaka hesitated for a second.

"I knew it! For all we know, you and your wolf here probably killed-"

Before he could finish, Ashitaka pulled out the heart and brain of the mononoke and threw it onto the ground. It had a nasty odor, similar to the odor of the demon boar Ashitaka had encountered three years ago. The crowd gasped and stepped back from the bloody parts. It wasn't long before the heart and brain dissolved into two puddles of blood. The man who had accused Ashitaka fell silent, and stepped back into the crowd. They knew enough about demons to know that these were the parts of a demon. Coupled with the absence of the red tint of the moon, no one had any grounds to reject Ashitaka's claim.

"Now then," Ashitaka continued, "My companions and I wish to return to Honshu...is anyone willing to help us?"

After a few moments, the same man stepped back into the center.

"I was going to take my fishing boat out in the morning. I could give you a ride back to Honshu if you'd like. And even better, I'll let you stay at my place for the night."

Ashitaka nodded, and the crowd dissolved. It was getting late, and everyone, especially Ashitaka and San, wanted to get some rest. Only the man remained. He was an older man with a hunched back from the years of labor. He had a gray beard that moved as he spoke. His clothes were plain and simple. "This way," he motioned to a hut not too far from the docks. "It's not much, but it's the least I could do. Forgive my rudeness earlier." He said humbly.

The inside of the hut was just as plain. The man lived alone and only had enough items for one person to live peacefully. Fishing nets, spears, and crates lined the walls. He had a single cooking pit in the middle of his room. As the man lit the fire, the smoke rose up into the spacious ceiling.

Ashitaka and San sat down around the pit as the man filled bowls with soup from a pot and handed them around. The earthy aroma made Ashitaka relax; he wasn't sure of the last time they truly were able to sit down and enjoy a meal.

"What a day," Ashitaka said, stretching after his last gulp of soup.

"Even more than today...this whole adventure...I never expected to leave the forest." San replied. "It's scary, being out in the world. I know I can always return to where I came from, but it doesn't feel like I have the option."

Ashitaka knew exactly what she meant. He thought about his village, the one he was exiled from, and wondered how they were doing. He remembered Kaya, his childhood friend whom he was slated to marry. Those days were over, however, as Ashitaka's path has led him here.

"We must always keep going." Ashitaka said. "The only way to change the world is to do it."

The man sat silently as he listened to the two speak, only interjecting to offer more soup to the two. Once dinner was finished, they made right for bed. Ashitaka and San slept in small futons on one side of the hut. It was more comfortable than what Ashitaka had been used to recently. Ashitaka sat there thinking about everything that had happened to him - visions danced around in his head and prevented him from falling asleep quickly. Soon, he couldn't tell whether he was awake or dreaming.

As morning came, the man was already getting breakfast ready. This time, he had fried some fish over the fire, complimenting it with some rice. The smell woke Ashitaka and San up from their slumber.

"A meal before we get going," the man said with a kind smile on his face.

"The boat might be a little cramped, but I think we can manage. Might as well relax while we can."

"Thank you," San said, "I appreciate your kindness." Ashitaka was a little surprised at this. San, thanking a human? He knew she had changed since he first met her, and he believed it was for the better. Just as he thought she looked beautiful when they embraced, now he thought she had become a completely different person.

The day was sunny and bright. The rays of the sun bounced off of the waves, making the water glisten in the morning air. People were outside, possibly feeling more comfortable without the presence of the mononoke to terrorize them. All was good.

San had become a little more accustomed to riding on a boat, as she did not feel as sick as she did last time. Even though the man's boat was much smaller and rocked on the waves, the wolf princess was able to power through it. The trip was much shorter than their previous ride since they simply crossed the channel that divided Kyushu from Honshu. The mainland came into view over the gentle waves, looking as if welcoming them back. The boat eventually approached a dock. A couple of men approached the edge, tossing rope over to the old man as he tied the boat in place. Ashitaka and his group disembarked and turned to thank the man.

"I am sorry that I could only bring you so far," He said as he bowed. "I hope you have a safe journey ahead of you."

It had felt like such a long time since Ashitaka and San were on this land, and it seemed like nothing much had changed. The countryside was vast and open, and the sky was clear and blue. It was a good day. The villages stood silent as people carried on with their daily chores, seemingly unaware of what is happening in the world. Ashitaka heard whispers from the townsfolk as they passed through.

"Did you hear about the war?"

"No, what happened? Did Nobunaga lose?"

"They're actually gaining in strength. Nobunaga managed to conquer a lot of western territory. Hideyoshi is leading an army into Hojo territory as we speak!"

As Ashitaka heard this, he almost fell off of Yakul. Hojo was the daimyo of the land where his former village was located. While his tribe did not specifically follow Hojo's rule, a war breaking out there would surely reach the village. As great of an ally Hideyoshi would be for Ashitaka, he was about to attack his homeland! Ashitaka did not know what to think, but he did not say a word.

"Something's troubling you...what is it?" San asked, noticing the look of frustration on the warrior's face.

"Those men back there, they said Hideyoshi was going to conquer Hojo territory...that's where my childhood village is located! What if they..." Ashitaka started to become conflicted. "That's where we have to go!"

As Ashitaka said this, San noticed a change overcoming him. She could see the curse spreading farther across his face. She held onto his arm as he looked down at her.

"Do you have more of the medicine?" She asked.

Ashitaka reached into his pouch but found nothing - he had used up the last of the leaves during their sea voyage. They were running out of time.

"Ashitaka..."

Before she could continue, Ashitaka darted off towards the east. San told Mori to catch up to him. They had a long journey, as Hojo territory was located on the eastern side of Japan, and they were on the far western side. Regardless, Ashitaka had to at least talk to Hideyoshi before he struck. Hideyoshi was just on Kyushu, from what San told him of her battles there, so he must not have gone too far ahead of them. What if he battle spread to Ashitaka's village? Ashitaka respects Hideyoshi, and therefore can at least try to convince him to do this so the village wouldn't be hurt. The more he thought on this, the more his arm would hurt him. It flickered black from time to time, which drove him crazier.

San, meanwhile, did her best to keep up. As the sun set, a red dusk began to settle on the land.

The western plains were quiet. The only sounds that could be heard were the rustling of the blades of grass in the calm wind. There were small animals and insects all across the land. The only thing disturbing the peaceful scene was Ashitaka and Yakul racing towards the east, towards Ashitaka's home village. San and Mori followed behind them.

"Ashitaka, Wait!" San called out. Ashitaka did not respond. He was too focused on what could happen. The curse that ran through him slowly continued to spread. Even Yakul, as loyal as he was to his master, soon grew tired of galloping such a great distance. Soon, the elk had to stop and take a rest.

Ashitaka, filled with fury, was still sane enough to understand the hardships of his animal friend. He soon calmed down as San caught up to them.

"You need to not work Yakul so hard," She said. The wind began to pick up. Before Ashitaka could respond, he heard the sound of a blowing horn in the distance. He looked to the north and saw many men on horseback. It wasn't long until Ashitaka and San were surrounded by soldiers. Ashitaka gripped his blade, just in case.

"Hold your hand," One of the soldiers called out. He was dressed in heavy armor and carried a large scythe in one hand. Ashitaka returned his hand to his side.

"We are here to capture any suspicious characters," The man continued. "If you'll come with us, there will be no harm done."

Ashitaka had no time for this. He wanted to unleash his demon power and be on his way to save his own village. However, he knew this was not a rational idea, so he complied.

"Very well," Ashitaka said calmly.

Ashitaka and San were led to a small camp, filled with hundreds of soldiers. Many were preparing for some kind of battle. Ashitaka was wary, as he did not know the loyalties of these people. The man brought them to a small cage-like area.

"You can't imprison us!" San spoke out. "We did nothing wrong!"

"We can't fully trust you," The man said, "I'm sorry, but it has to be this way."

"Wait!" A man called out in the distance. Everyone turned to the source. It was Dumai! Upon seeing him, Ashitaka's face lit up.

"Don't worry, Kato," Dumai said. "They are on our side. They support Lord Oda."

Kato nodded, then turned towards Ashitaka, "I apologize for this. My name is Kiyomasa Kato." He gave a great bow.

"It's okay," Ashitaka responded, then turned towards Dumai. "Is Hideyoshi here?"

"I'm afraid he's not," Dumai said, "He's currently in Hojo territory with Hanbei Takenaka of the Saito Clan."

"I have to stop him! My village..." Ashitaka said lightly.

"Well, if you want to find him, you can. First, you should meet Lord Oda." Dumai said, then gestured towards the large tent in the middle of the camp. Ashitaka and San walked in.

The tent was very extravagant. It was similar to the tent Lord Hideyoshi had, but much more regal. In the center, a man sat, holding his blade in one hand, and a cup of tea in another. He sat with such grace that Ashitaka immediately felt shame with bearing his curse in the same room.

"Lord Oda," Dumai said, "There is someone I would like you to meet. These are the people Hideyoshi was talking about when he was here with us."

Lord Oda got up, placed his tea down, and turned towards Ashitaka. "So you are the ones who helped with the Spirit Wolves," Oda said, turning towards San. " And you helped Hideyoshi take the Shimazu territory. Your talent is very impressive. I am glad you are fighting for our cause...you do plan to join us, correct?"

Ashitaka hesitated for a moment. "Lord Oda, it is an honor to meet you. However, Hideyoshi is currently on his way to attack Hojo territory...my former village is in Hojo territory..."

Oda took a step towards Ashitaka and put a hand on his shoulder, the one tainted with the curse. "I understand your concern, but you should not worry. If anything, the Hojo clan will be the ones destroying villages. Our cause is the unification of these lands, not the conquering of them. We only fight the enemy; we do not kill or abuse the unarmed. The is the vision I see - through the bloodshed lies peace. If you do not believe me, you are free to join Hideyoshi. You can make sure your village is not destroyed, and then you can help us secure Odawara."

Ashitaka paused for a moment, then eventually nodded.

"Great!" Oda exclaimed. "We were going to send reinforcements tomorrow. You can travel with them. Dumai and Kato will be traveling as well."

"What about you, Lord Oda?" Ashitaka said in response.

"I will be taking another group right into Kyoto to challenge the Ashikaga clan. We are attacking on multiple fronts all throughout Japan. May you find victory and honor in battle." Oda said as Ashitaka, San, and Dumai left the tent. Kato stayed behind.

"Lord Oda," Kato started, "Who will be assisting you at Kyoto?"

Oda responded, "Mitsuhide will accompany me. He is one of my most loyal generals besides Hideyoshi."

Meanwhile, Dumai showed Ashitaka and San to another tent. "You can stay here until tomorrow. If you need anything, let any of us know."

"Thank you," San said. She had been quiet for most of the time they had spent at the camp, which Ashitaka found a little strange.

After Dumai left, Ashitaka turned to San. "Is there something wrong, San?"

San said nothing, but instead stared into the sky. There was a heavy wind blowing through the camp. "It's nothing..." San said. "Let's just get ready for tomorrow."

The sun began to set on the camp. The men were eating, talking, laughing, and preparing to give their lives for their leader. Ashitaka soon began to think if he wanted to give his life for Oda as well.

As dawn broke, San was already up. She was wandering around the camp, looking for a place to train. San felt like it's been a while since she had actually been in a battle. Before long, she found a small area with a few large logs staged to be used as training dummies.

She brought out her daggers and began chipping away at the logs. Each hit made her think of everything that had happened to her and Ashitaka ever since they left the forest. Each of these memories filled her with rage. After one last hit, she heard a voice from behind:

"Getting some early training in, I see..."

This startled San. Upon turing around, she was surprised to see it was Lord Oda. San gave him a look, as if she were ready to attack if needed.

"I see you do not trust me fully..." Oda started. He sat down on one of the logs and motioned for San to join him. She did not move. Oda chuckled slightly.

"Based on your outfit, fighting style, and the wolf you brought here with you...you lived in the wild. I'm guessing in the forests. Growing up, you developed a hatred of humans and a devotion to the forest you grew up in. If anyone threatened your home, you would retaliate. I respect that. A large devotion to your idea of home. We are a lot alike in this sense."

San did not move, but she pondered on what Oda said.

Oda continued, "...I believe that the current state of these lands is a mess. All of the fighting, all of the factions...my home is threatened by a conflict of interest. In order to protect my home, I must take charge and show them all that unification is the way it should be. You can see how this is similar to your position, am I correct?"

San stared at the ground. She understood what Oda was trying to say, even if it meant comparing herself to a normal human.

Oda then said, "But anyway, that is irrelevant. Fate brought you and your friend here with us, and I am asking that you help us see our vision come to life." He then looked at San's daggers, noticing how worn out they were getting. "I can provide you with new daggers if you want. They'll suit you much better." He beckoned for her to follow him. She hesitated at first, but then decided to follow. Oda led San to a weapon tent. It was filled with lots of katanas, spears, and armor. He led her to a small box in the back of the tent. It was jewelled and heavy.

"These daggers were won in a battle out in the west. They come from a far away land, far away from the islands we call our home."

After opening the box, San marveled at the beauty of the daggers. They were also jewelled, with snow white blades that curved slightly at the end.

"...I..." San started.

"Oh, so you do speak!" Oda said jokingly. "Don't worry, I won't miss them. There are greater treasures to be won." San humbly picked up the daggers. They felt very light to hold. "...Thank you..." She said softly.

"Whatever fate you meet, I hope you carry yourself well." Oda said. As both walked out of the tent, a horn sounded. All of the men began to get up and get ready to head out.

"Well, this is where we must part. You will go with your friend to the east, while I meet my own destiny at Kyoto. Good luck to you." Oda said strongly as he turned and walked away. San returned to the logs she was practicing at earlier, and took one last swipe with a dagger. The log was sliced clean in half. San gave a little smile, then returned to her own tent.

Ashitaka had just finished getting ready when San walked in. She noticed the state of his arm; it was getting much worse. She did not know how long it would be until what the medicine man said would happen. Ashitaka noticed San and gave a smile. "Up already?"

San simply smiled back. Ashitaka and San exited the tent. It was a new day, and Ashitaka was going to return to familiar territory. He knew he was banished from the village, but he just couldn't resist returning to see what had happened in the time he was gone. The soldiers were all up and about in preparations for the journey they were about to undergo.

"Ah, you're finally awake," Dumai said as he saw Ashitaka and San walk by. "Are you ready for the journey? It will be long, and we may have to fight on the way. Are you up for it?"

Ashitaka gave a nod.

"Good. I see you haven't changed since the battle at Kii." Dumai laughed for a second.

Kato and Oda emerged from Oda's tent. Both were holding scrolls that contained battle plans and orders. Each turned to the other and bowed, then went off in separate directions.

"Men!" Kato started. "Everyone who is coming with me into Hojo territory, we leave immediately!" Hundreds of men took off to the east. Ashitaka, San, and Dumai did the same.

The land was very familiar to Ashitaka. It was gentle, peaceful, and reminded him of his journey to Iron town and meeting San. He patted Yakul and turned to look at San. She was riding Mori while whispering something in his ear. Ashitaka was in a very good mood. Suddenly, he felt a pain in his arm and chest. His curse was spreading, and it was very visible on his cheek now. He didn't know how much longer he had until he would start to lose himself. He didn't forget his other mission. The demon was out there somewhere, and he must kill it in order to remove the curse.

Dumai pulled up on a horse, beside Ashitaka. "You feeling okay? Your face..." He said quietly.

"How much longer until we get there?" Ashitaka asked in a tone that did not sound like a question.

"I can see you don't want to talk about it...in a few days, we should just be entering Hojo territory. We will set up camp if we have to at night." Dumai said.

San, meanwhile, could not stop looking at her new weapons. They were very beautiful and could cut really well. She appreciated Oda for giving them to her. As she was moving along, an arrow brushed right past her face. She gasped and looked up. It was an ambush! Men poured out from the trees, pouncing on the traveling band of soldiers. Kato screamed for his men to get ready. Ashitaka pulled out his sword and took swipes at the enemies that came toward him. They all fell easily. Ashitaka had forgotten what it was like to face other humans, due to the time spent in the spirit world. Dumai killed a few soldiers as well, decapitating several with his own blade. Kato swung wildly with his spear. Dozens of soldiers flew back at every swipe.

San used this opportunity to test her new blades on these soldiers. She stood on Mori's back as he charged forward. She lept off and spun around in the air, dropping her hands down to catch the enemy soldiers right on the neck. She landed on her feet and ducked to avoid an enemy sword. She retaliated by stabbing the man in his side, then spun around again to attack the other soldiers surrounding her. Mori himself attacked a few enemy soldiers in the proccess.

Before long, the enemies were fleeing. "Escape!" Various callings and sounds to escape could be heard as the men ran into the forest. Kato's army cheered, having won that unofficial battle. They continued on, aware of the potential threat on their people. Only a few were lost in the battle, which was a very good thing.

As night approached, Ashitaka passed by a very familiar sight - the river where he first saw San and her mother Moro. He knew they were close to Iron Town. He looked at San, who knew as well. However, they kept moving on, as they knew where they had to be. San felt great to be near the forest where she grew up, yet she knew that fighting in this battle would help make sure this forest would stay preserved. She looked in the direction of where Iron Town was tucked away, out of harm's way, at least for the time being. She had faith in the people of Iron Town to keep up the restoration that they were in the proccess of doing. With that, the army pressed on.

A camp was set up once Kato determined that the location was safe enough. The men were too tired to carry on conversations, or even set up tents properly. Everyone fell asleep as quickly as they could. Ashitaka had a dream about Iron Town and the night San attacked by herself.

In the morning, everyone packed up quickly and kept on their way. There was no time to be wasted as they were needed in order to take the Hojo capital. A few more days and nights passed like this before the army made it into Hojo territory. Ashitaka felt a familiar presence as he reached his old village. In a few hours, Ashitaka knew exactly where he was, and he broke from the rest of the men. Kato called out to Ashitaka, ordering him to return. San looked at Kato and then ran off to catch him. Ashitaka, meanwhile, couldn't stop thinking about what he would find once he got to his village. He passed the giant hill where the boar was slain all those years ago, and as he made it to the top...