Chapter Twenty-Eight

Mitsuhide sat opposite his mother and uncles on the tatami. The castle had grown quiet in the night as its inhabitants went to sleep. Owls hooted in the distance, and the crackle of the fire from torches filled the silence with a warm lull between conversation amongst the guards on night duty.

It was a calm night, and it matched the sense which had settled over Mitsuhide's mind. He thought that when it eventually came to this moment, his heart would be pounding. Pounding from the fear of what he was about to ask his family.

However, he felt nothing of the sort. Because instead, he felt sure, as sure as the fact there was a moon in the sky. Everything felt right, as if events had finally slotted into their rightful place on the wheel of fate. It was as if fate itself had been waiting for today, and now it had happened, there was only one path left to take.

"My esteemed mother and uncles, thank you for agreeing to speak with me at this time of night," Mitsuhide began.

"Well, we do not exactly need sleep as much as humans do," Mitsuhisa mused. "Though I would have appreciated it if this could have waited until I finally managed to beat my brother at Go. I was so close!"

"No, you were not," Mitsuyasu said flatly, shaking his head.

"I was!" Mitsuhisa objected. "And you know it. Literally two more moves and I would have had you surrounded."

"My dear brothers, please," Lady Akechi scolded the two men.

Mitsuhisa huffed and pouted, while Mitsuyasu wore an ever so subtle smug which disappeared a moment later. "What is it that you wish to speak to us about, Mitsuhide?"

Mitsuhide sat up straighter. The motion alone seemed to still the room with an air of confident steadiness.

"It concerns Osamu, and while my intentions are set, I still wish to have your blessing as my family."

"Oh?" Hummed Mitsuhisa, suddenly becoming very interested.

This was it. Now or never. And yet, astonishingly enough, Mitsuhide was not nervous. Because he just knew in his heart this was the correct thing to do. It was the path which had been set for him. It is what the future foretold, and Mitsuhide had Seen it for himself, through Aki's eyes. The faces of their future children shone bright in his mind.

"After I become clan Chief, I wish to take Osamu as my wife," he announced.

His mother and uncles met his eyes. He had no need to look away from them, and he continued, using the memory of Aki's embrace to empower him. With that strength, he felt he could do anything.

"Now, I can understand if you have misgivings regarding my decision. Given the title I am about to inherit, it is expected I take a Pureblood of similar standing and power to mine and this family. It is tradition and politically advantageous to form an alliance with another powerful family to increase our influence. However, allow me to present you the advantages of having Osamu as my wife over another Pureblood Oni."

Lady Akechi watched him carefully, Mitsuhisa tilted his head and looked up at the ceiling with a curious frown, and Mitsuyasu leaned forward, looking down with also a frown.

"Osamu came to us as a human," Mitsuyasu eventually said. "However, over the years and with recent events, that seems to have been brought into question, therefore we are listening."

Mitsuhide nodded. "Indeed, Osamu entered our world as a human, and still bears the physical limitations of one at least. However, it has become apparent that she has not aged since she arrived in this world, therefore it could be assumed that she essentially has the same form of immortality as us. She can be slain in battle, but aside from that, she could live for as long as we, until time proves otherwise.

"She is an individual with connections to and the blessings and favour of the Superiors, which puts her in greater standing than most of the Purebloods of our world. Besides her connection to the Superiors, Osamu bears supernatural abilities of her own, which connects her with our world of the supernatural more than initially thought. Her ability to See through aspects of time, whether it be past, present of future, is known to us. However, it also appears to be known by our enemies now as well, as proven on the battlefield when the assassination attempts on her life took place."

Mitsuyasu grunted in agreement, pressing his lips into a thin line. Although Mitsuyasu was the most stoic of all the Akechi Lords, he was more fond of Aki than what he would ever admit. Her katana was his gift, and Mitsuyasu took pride in seeing her wield it.

Now that she could no longer use a katana, it brought Mitsuyasu great sadness.

"Osamu is still in the process of discovering her abilities as a Seer, but it seems she is not limited to Seeing through her dreams, as contested by her duel against the Oni on the field, wherein she was able to use it actively to balance the battlefield against her foe," Mitsuhide said.

Mitsuhisa smirked. "I would love to have seen her transformation. The descriptions do not do it justice."

"I am sure there will be an opportunity to see it in the future," Mitsuhide agreed. "My point is, we cannot classify her as a human anymore, given no human can transform in any way. However, Osamu can, and she can use that transformation to match the supernatural, to become one of us, if she has not already.

"Now leading on from this point, Seers are incredibly rare, even throughout Yomi, Izumo and Takamagahara. If you are concerned of Osamu's lack of pure blood in her veins, consider the political and spiritual advantages of her as my wife. Due to a Seer's power, they are – by nature – impartial to the world's politics. They tell only what they See, and give neither side an advantage, leaving their visions and prophecies to be open to interpretation. If a Seer so chose to, they could influence and control this land with an unbreakable hold without ever actually possessing it, for they can See all.

"However, what if one were to take a side? What if Osamu the Seer, took ours? Whoever possesses a Seer, holds the fate of the land in his hands. Not even a Pureblood from another family could offer such an overwhelmingly advantageous power to this family and I. I will be the Emperor of Yomi, and my wife will be a Seer. My power will be greater than any Emperor who has sat upon Yomi's throne before me. Our family will essentially become invincible, for Osamu is one of us, and she can guide us away from dangers, to always possess the upper hand no matter what may come. Nothing can ever take us by surprise, for Osamu will See it."

It was an odd feeling, an unpleasant one, to speak of Aki in terms of political gain. Her power as a Seer were a huge advantage. This was fact. And it was one his enemies also knew.

However, even without such powers, Mitsuhide's feelings for her would have still been the same. But in order to convince his family – and those of Yomi – to consider accepting such a proposal, using her abilities was the only way.

"You put across a strong argument, nephew," Mitsuhisa admitted. "Even in the early days of Osamu's company with us, we had wondered how her abilities as a Seer may progress and influence our surroundings. So far, she has only used it twice, the first being the night of my brother's passing by saving you, and the other to intentionally lose against Saito Dousan. It is only in this most recent battle that we see her using her ability physically to stand on equal footing against an Oni far greater than her."

"Her gifts are still young," Mitsuyasu murmured. "With great potential to grow, as Mitsuhisa has pointed out. However, what will she do with them? Even she understands that she was brought here by the Superiors for a purpose, yet it is a purpose neither she, nor we know. What if she is to use her abilities to work against us? What if she is meant to use them for a purpose entirely unrelated to the possibilities we could consider? How can you guarantee that she will not betray us in the future, even if a future vision of hers deems she must?"

They were difficult and bitter questions.

But the memory of her embrace still lingered. Mitsuhide could still feel Aki's arms around him, how soft she felt, how comfortable and safe and warm it made him feel, how he felt her love through that one action, and how his heart responded to her silent confession.

Mitsuhide knew Aki better than anyone, and there was not a doubt left in his mind wondering how her heart felt towards him. They were one.

He tilted his head down and shut his eyes for a moment, smiling slightly to himself. "No, she will not," he answered his uncle.

Aki would never betray him, as surely as he would never betray her. It was something he knew in his heart as certain as he knew the sun would rise in the morning and set in the evening. It was an inevitability, just as the course of nature was. Trying to deny it was like attempting to force a river to reverse its course and go back up the valley it just came down.

His uncles watched him, analysing him, meeting his gaze, of which Mitsuhide held as steady as his katana, until his uncles eventually looked to Lady Akechi.

His mother on the other hand, continued. In the end, she spoke, and asked only one question.

"Do you love her?"

It was a personal question, one which had his uncles grunt and look away. But Mitsuhide had somehow expected it from his mother, and he was not ashamed. He welcomed it, because he was proud of it. Even Death gave way to his love for Aki. If Death could not deny him, then no one could.

"Yes, I do," he answered his mother truthfully, meeting her dark eyes.

The two held each other's gaze, and Mitsuhide felt the tingle of sorcery touch his sense. He did not fight it, and allowed his surroundings to change as his mother separated them to an alternate reality. The walls fell away, leaving them sitting on the tatami floor, but surrounded by calm darkness. His uncles disappeared, leaving Mitsuhide and his mother sitting opposite each other.

Here, in this private realm shared between mother and son, Lady Akechi finally spoke.

"Your father was always fond of Osamu," she finally said, her smooth voice melding with the calm quiet of the space. "I could never fully understand why at the time. But, he trusted her, right from the beginning. She was the daughter he never had, and their bond was almost as such."

"Aki told me once before, that Chichi-ue was very similar to her own father," Mitsuhide remembered.

"So it seems," Lady Akechi agreed. "It explains why he placed a great deal of trust in her to look after and guide you, to protect you. And she has done so. I would be a fool to pretend otherwise." Lady Akechi sighed. "She has become a formidable individual over the years. Very few women take to the battlefield directly, but Osamu does, and as we have discussed recently, she can also hold her ground against one of our own kind, though at a price. Perhaps that price will not be so high in the future with training of her Sight."

Mitsuhide hoped so. He could not bear to go through an experience like that again. The memory was still fresh, and so were his emotions. The terror still clutched his heart, the horror still paralysed his body, and the fury still ripped through his spirit.

When his mother spoke again, he did not realise he had become trapped in the memory again. Her voice shattered the blood and shriek of Death, bringing him back to their plane of limbo.

"Both you and Osamu have the love of the people of Mino, and she is revered by the people as a deity. I know her effect on you, and likewise your effect on her, even though it has been many years before either of you realised it," Lady Akechi said.

Mitsuhide blinked, staring at her. His mother knew? All this time?

"Do not look surprised, Jubei. I have lived many years. I have known of your love for Osamu since you were a boy, and I have known of Osamu's love for you ever since you asked her to stay in our world, even though she never became aware of her own heart until recently." She stopped, thoughtful but stern. "You have Miyoshino's blessing, and as she is my husband's sister, I trust her judgement. Therefore, you have my blessing also."

Mitsuhide stilled, stunned into silence. He had hoped with all of his heart to hear these words. He expected to hear them, and yet, it still shocked him to see his mother agree to such an impossible request, despite how his heart soared.

"However," Lady Akechi added. "It will not be easy. Yomi still views Osamu as a human, and in that sense, your union will be prohibited in the supernatural world by its laws. But, Yomi is curious about her. And although it is not spoken openly, behind whispered doors, they do acknowledge her otherworldly origin and her direct contact and alliance with the Superiors. Her knowledge and intellect has not gone unnoticed, and her abilities as a Seer has spread like a fire across our world since her duel, and some do waver now in their original views, seeing the advantages of having her as an ally to the Akechi." She re-clasped her hands upon her lap. "With time and work, it is likely Osamu could be accepted as your official wife in Yomi and beyond.

"And so I come to my final point. My blessing you have, under one condition. Wait for a few years. Give time to prove to Yomi why Osamu will be worthy of sitting at your side. Give time for her to train in her abilities. A few years, and I will see to the wedding arrangements myself. But until then, both of you must prove yourselves worthy of this union."

Mitsuhide stared at his mother, and she watched him in return. Even if Lady Akechi had said no, Mitsuhide would have still loved Aki regardless. But Lady Akechi was his mother, and he both respected and loved her as such, and honoured her beyond his uncles, for despite the power and rank of men, women had an even greater power, silent though it was.

To hear he had his mother's blessing, was all that was required for the union to be accepted. Knowing that he had Lady Akechi's permission, Mitsuhide could wait a thousand years if necessary to have Aki's hand in marriage, as long as Aki consented.

The relief in Mitsuhide's soul was overwhelming, and so was his gratitude. He wished he could show how grateful he was to his mother. But he could not be as open and as forward as Aki had been.

Therefore Mitsuhide bowed, and touched his brow to the tatami, staying there.

"Thank you, Haha-ue," he whispered.

Lady Akechi approached him and knelt down in front. "Sit up, Jubie," she said softly.

He did with a soft exhalation. It was a breath that released all the tension he did not know he was holding.

His mother cupped his cheek, and for a moment, allowed her stern and cold demeanour to fall away, revealing the mother beneath.

"I will not deny that a Pureblood would have still been preferable," she said. "Purely from the perspective that any wife of yours must be strong to be able to stand next to you. A Pureblood will be able to defend you against attack in combat, and guard you while you sleep."

"I understand that, Haha-ue, but –,"

"Wait, allow me to finish," she cut him off with a shake of her head. "Osamu may not be as physically strong as us, and has been hindered by her recent injuries. However, as a Seer, she provides the same form of defence that any Pureblood can, perhaps more so as Osamu will also have political and event foresight. In addition to this, I have seen how much Osamu has made you happy. And I do not think any other woman could do that as well as she has. A true partnership is wherein both sides improve the other, and that is what you have both done, and continue to do so." She pulled her hand back from his cheek, and reached to take his hands. "But be warned. Your relationship will not be an easy one. As Emperor, you will be a constant target for our enemies. Plots will be sown against you, allies may turn their back, and others will attempt to take Osamu from you. As it has been evidently shown, our enemies do not want a Seer in our midst. Any advantage you have, will be at risk, including yourself."

Mitsuhide squeezed his mother's hands and smiled. "I understand your worries, Haha-ue, for they are mine as well. And that is why I want to reassure you that I will take every step necessary to protect this family. I will guard us with everything that I am, with everything that I have, and with everything that I will be. But, I cannot do it alone."

Lady Akechi grasped his hands in return. "And that is where we step in. We are one family, your uncles, aunt, cousins, and Osamu included. For you to be strong, we must be strong, and for us to be strong, you must be. If Osamu will navigate you through the dangers of your future, then I know I do not have much to fear. Mitsukuni protected you and this family with his life. I see the same spark and strength of will in her as well."

Mitsuhide sighed gently. "Perhaps, we do know why the Superiors sent Aki to us after all. But I am not so young and weak to allow her to follow the same fate as Chichi-ue."

Lady Akechi sat back, a slight smile playing on her lips. "You have defied even Death. Your father would be very pleased to see how strong you have become already, even though you have not yet come into your full powers until the coronation."

"I have a long way yet to go to be able to compare with Chichi-ue," Mitsuhide admitted.

"You are certainly your father's son. You will never be the same as him, for you are not the same. But he was great, and so will you be, if not more so. He will be proud, as I am."

Mitsuhide gazed across at his mother. "Thank you, Haha-ue," he said again, conveying the true gratitude of his feelings across in his tone.

Lady Akechi did not say anything. But her eyes illustrated her appreciation and she nodded.

What was needed to be said, was now said, and she let the illusion of their surroundings fall. The walls returned, and Mitsuyasu and Mitsuhisa reappeared. The two men straightened.

Mitsuhisa hummed. "Well," he said with finalisation. "I believe we know the answer. If sister-in-law has given you her blessing, then we also follow suit." He then winked subtly. "Good choice, Mitsuhide."

The wink took Mitsuhide by surprise, and he felt his face flush.

"So what is the plan then?" Mitsuhisa continued brightly. "Human wedding? Supernatural wedding? Before the coronation? After the coronation? Cannot be at the same time as she would not be able to withstand the ascension trial at this stage."

Mitsuhide held up his hand to stop his uncle. "As overjoyed as I am to have your blessings, my union with Osamu will not be for a while yet. It will take time for me to convince Yomi, and Osamu herself will need time to train in her abilities. However, even before any of this, the fact remains that Osamu has no knowledge of my intentions."

"Oh," Mitsuhisa said, sounding disappointed.

It only lasted for a moment. "Well, might as well go talk to her now about it."

"Not now," Mitsuyasu sighed. "She is asleep."

"Oh, I forgot," Mitsuhisa winced, slapping his head. "I keep forgetting she needs to sleep." He then gasped and grinned. "See, that's a good thing. Shows how we view her as one of us rather than a human. Bah, nephew, you do not need to worry so much about Yomi. The Oni and spirits on this side of the veil in the human world see her as far more than a human woman. I am fairly sure such views will be relayed back to Yomi. And that is all which matters."

Mitsuhide rested his hands in his lap, feeling pleased, but kept it contained. "I am glad to see your enthusiasm, uncle, but please allow me to approach Osamu on this subject in my own way."

Mitsuhisa sighed and crossed his arms. "Fine."

Mitsuyasu cleared his throat. "It appears you have achieved what you came to ask us tonight, Mitsuhide, and we congratulate you. Now we shall discuss further arrangements regarding this development over the coming weeks. But for now, let us call this meeting adjourned. There is much to think about."

Mitsuhide nodded. "Agreed. Thank you, uncles and mother. I bid you goodnight, then."

They nodded in return. All rose together, and went their separate ways into the castle, with an unusual – or perhaps an expected – development in their minds.

X

"I must confess, I was hoping you would visit me sooner, Hai Ting, but I can understand now why you have been absent for all these weeks," Yue Lao exclaimed, jolly despite the cold. "You look radiant and strong again!"

I sat down on a box behind Yue Lao's trailer, beneath an oilskin cover to act as some shelter. It was a cold evening, but there was little wind, and very light snow fell. We both sat on boxes, with a third box between us to act as a table upon which he had brought out a beautiful tea tray, made of ironwood, and served the brew the traditional Chinese way in small cups of fine white porcelain and painted bamboo stalks with leaves. The steam of the hot water twirled lazily in the chilly air, flavouring it with the strong scents of pu er tea.

It had been six weeks since my first meeting with Yue Lao. I had only come to see him once again in between then and now. Even though this was my third meeting, it felt like I had known him for a long time, and seeing him was like seeing an old friend, with the same feelings of familiarity and home.

He sat down opposite me, the warm glow of the Chinese lantern on the box table illuminating the space between us.

"The Akechi look after me well," I said with gratitude. "Thanks to their care and training, I am beginning to feel like myself again. Though it is not just them. Your medicines have hastened the healing process."

"Ah, well, it is so rare to find another of my people in this land. We are kin, and I want to help, for you are like a granddaughter to me," Yue Lao said, pouring the hot water into the cup of tea leaves for it to steep.

"Traditional medicines are always best," I mused, thinking back to my world. "Whenever I was unwell, my mother's home remedies worked best. She was best at healing the internal body. My father was always good at patching my sister and I up physically if we ever fell over and had injuries. I suppose it is the same here. The Akechi have fixed me physically. You have fixed me internally, and I am very grateful, Yue Lao."

Yue Lao chuckled. "Why thank you, young lady. But I think your Lord deserves more credit than that."

I blinked, taken aback. "Who do you mean?"

"Why, the young Akechi Lord of course, the one you serve," Yue Lao said with a tilt of his head. "I may be a foreigner, but I listen. And it sounds like he alone is the reason you have recovered so well, mentally and emotionally."

I sat back, stunned, and frowned. Yue Lao was a very perceptive old man, and I certainly did not give him enough credit for that. But, then again, given our first meeting, it should not have surprised me. Though I craved to hear if it could be seen that Mitsuhide and I would look well as a couple, I also dreaded and feared it.

After I had hugged him, an enormous weight had been lifted from my shoulders, to finally admit to myself, and maybe even to Mitsuhide, of my feelings. However, it also left me exposed, wondering if it would ever be returned, even though I knew it could not and should not. I did not want to wait around, and so dove into my training and recovery.

My muscles had returned, my body re-toned, and slowly but surely, I began to strengthen my left wrist again through exercise, and trained my lungs in adapted breathing techniques. Mitsuhide was an incredible teacher, and I focused solely on that to guard my heart from its innermost truth. Despite his youth, Mitsuhide's skill in combat and the philosophies of the Ways of the Samurai were as detailed as each strand of silk in a kimono, and it was matched by his literary and cultural knowledge.

"Mitsuhide is the very reason I still live," I said quietly. "And I will never deny it. I owe everything to him."

Yue Lao smiled to himself as he poured the first cup of tea down through the grills of the tea tray, and poured more hot water over the tea leaves so the second steeping could be much richer.

"However, please understand that meeting you has almost equal significance, which no one would ever realise. Because you are a link, a connection back home for me," I said softly. "I had not realised just how much I missed it, until I met you, and spoke in my other mother-tongue." I laughed slightly in irony. "Though I guess Mitsuhide-sama knew that, hence why he brought me to you in the first place. It is rare to see such goodness in a young man."

Yue Lao poured the second cups, and then served them. I took my cup graciously, and inhaled the scent. It reminded me of being back in Hong Kong in a dim sum restaurant, with good food in front of me and the barking babble of Cantonese filling the air.

"It makes me a very happy old man to hear I can be of some help." He took a sip of his tea, and I did the same. "He will make a good husband to you one day."

I choked on my tea, snapped out from my memory. The strain it caused on my lungs was reminiscent of when I had been stabbed by the arrow. I clamped my hands to my side, as if I could guard against the pain and block out the eruption of panic and fear from the battlefield memory which violently replaced the one of Hong Kong.

"Aiya, I did not mean to startle you, Hai Ting," Yue Lao chided, reaching out to pat my shoulder as I brought my choking under control. "Here, drink some tea. It will help."

I did as he advised, and ironically it helped.

"Why did you say that?" I demanded when I could finally talk again, feeling my face burn for a reason other than the choking. Yue Lao poured the third cup.

He clicked his tongue. "Oh, do not be so surprised. Even a fool can see a connection between you both. Plus, you also look very good together, but that is not my point. If he has not asked you to marry him yet, then he will do so very soon."

I placed my cup firmly on the table. "Please do not speak so openly, Yue Lao. You speak the impossible. I am his retainer . . . or was . . . and I am his friend. That is all."

Yue Lao caught me off guard. I wondered if our familiarity with each-other based on our origins had made him too confident in voicing such a notion. But then again, he was also an old man. At that age, they did not have much of a filter. Sometimes it was a blessing. Sometimes it was the opposite.

In this case, I was not sure. I felt confused and conflicted, because my heart wanted his words to be true. But my brain still spoke logic. I hated it, but the logic was the far more likely path. I could not tell Yue Lao that Mitsuhide was an imperial, immortal Oni. I could not tell him that Mitsuhide's wife would be a Pureblood like him. I could not tell him that Mitsuhide likely would not see me in the same way I saw him.

Yue Lao's hum rumbled in his chest. "Hmm, it appears I have touched on a sensitive topic. Very well then, let us change it for now. Tell me of your parents. You are of mixed blood, therefore how did they meet?"

It was a relief to change the subject, except Yue Lao had picked an equally difficult topic, therefore I had to think carefully and to choose my words wisely. Despite the difficulty of trying to work out how to hide the fact I was from a different time era, it was a good enough distraction from the sudden pang in my heart of wishing, but knowing, that I could never be Mitsuhide's wife.

Speaking of my original family helped however, and the evening went by talking about them, talking about China and its political state, of finding out which one was the current Emperor. Yue Lao spoke of his friends and his general life, which seemed to be full and well-lived life, filled with travelling, and matchmaking.

Well I guess that explains why he seems to think Mitsuhide and I will make a good match, I thought with a soft exhalation. Maybe in a different time and place . . . but I still doubt it. No one ever batted an eye towards me in my own time. Why would this time be any different?

Still, it was so nice to talk to him, to talk about culture, philosophy and literature, of teas and foods, and martial arts. I had these conversations anyway with my friends here. But it was only on Japanese culture, for that was all they knew. To speak with Yue Lao, was like finally opening my eyes after they had been shut for too long.

Finally, the fifth cup of tea was drunk, and I bowed with clasped hands. "Thank you for this evening, Yue Lao. It has been an absolute delight. I hope we can do this more often."

"Likewise! Likewise!" He exclaimed. "It will still be at least another four weeks before the snows on the passes will melt. So be sure to visit me during then."

I grinned. "I will."

I made to stand, when Yue Lao gasped and jumped.

"Wait! Before you go, I wish to give you something."

I looked at him, puzzled. He rummaged around in the deep folds of his wide sleeves. His eyes then lit up as he found whatever he was looking for, and pulled it out.

It was a strand of red string.

"Here," he said, giving it to me. "For luck. Tie it around your ankle."

I took it and peered at it. The string was simple, though the colour was rich and vibrant. Its significance was familiar, and great, but I could not quite remember why.

Nevertheless, I shrugged and did as he said, and once it was tied around my ankle, I felt oddly at peace and I smiled down at it. Beside the jade accessory I still carried with me – either tied in my hair or on my clothing – it was the only piece of China I had.

I laughed quietly. "I had always wanted to try an anklet."

"Well, now you have one," Yue Lao said, also looking at the red string tied around my ankle, and nodded approvingly. "Now, be off with you. Best get back to the castle before it gets too late. You may dress like a man, but that will not stop drunk loiterers from bothering you."

I grinned at him. It was nice to hear someone speak so normally to me like this. I stood and bowed again.

"Alright then. Goodnight, Yue Lao. And thanks for the tea."

"Goodnight, my dear. Be careful on your way back."

"I will," I said, waving to him as I left, feeling as light as a cloud and happily warm inside.

I began my walk back to the castle. It was around nine in the evening by my estimation. It was difficult to tell sometimes in the winter as the sun set so early, just like in the UK. The two countries were near enough on the same latitude lines, so sun sets and sun rises and twilights and dawn were very similar. Only difference was Japan actually had proper weather, where it was hot in the summer and snowy in the winter. In the UK, the seasons were whatever happened to be outside the window at that current time. There were days as hot as summer in November, and days where we had snow in July. So it was a hit and miss.

Some people still milled about, usually around the food places and bars which were still open. It was a very different people that stayed out this late and beyond, for families had already gone to bed or were indoors at this time.

There was a time when I used to be extremely nervous walking about this late in the town. But that was before I had established myself. Things were a bit different now. People, even while drunk, nodded their heads to me as I passed, and I returned the novelty.

For all my differences to the people of this land, I was still so glad they had accepted me as one of their own. I was not a native, but, this place, this town, the Akechi . . . they were my home now. Yue Lao brought me another form of joy which I never thought I could feel again, and it was the bittersweet kind. My home was here now with the Akechi, but my roots would always remain. And that was the main thing. My world was vast, purely because of my blood. But even if there ever came a time when I had to leave the Akechi, such as if Mitsuhide got married and his wife kicked me out, I would be heartbroken to leave the home which took me in. However, I could still return to China.

In knowing I had a back-up plan, it settled the constant worry at the back of my mind.

Or so I thought. It was a cold feeling pricking against my skin, but it was not from the chill of the air. It was a pressure against my mind, like a silent but uncomfortable buzzing.

"Always listen to that feeling," my father had taught. "Always look around you."

I paused, and did so. I looked behind me, and my eyes were drawn to the gloom at the edge of the street. A figure walked along the side, his eyes flickering to me. His eyes lingered longer than they should have, and there was none of the same familiarity in his eyes as with the people of the town.

I realised I did not recognise his face, and frowned, suddenly feeling alert. He was not someone of Tara. Taking a deep, cooling breath, I turned, keeping myself collected. Last thing I wanted was for this stranger to sense my unease. Who was he? Why did I detect danger from him? And why did I feel like it was directed at me?

Maybe I am just overthinking it, I tried to tell myself. Maybe he's just a drunk and looking for a fight.

I had a ninjato tucked within the folds of my clothes, a gift from Mitsuhide, and a wakazashi from Mitsuhisa, though the wakazashi I had left in the castle. The ninjato should be enough to defend myself. Just because I could not fight with a katana anymore, did not mean I could not fight at all. I was adept at hand-to-hand combat as any Samurai. The only issue was the weakness of my left wrist still and how quickly my left lung began to hurt when under exertion and strained.

I continued to make my way back to the castle, feigning ignorance. But I did not get far, as another man blocked my path up ahead. He stood in the middle, a solitary figure, watching me.

My mouth went dry and my heart rate increased, feeling like a gallop in my chest.

That's fine. I still know this place better than them, whoever they are, I thought, clenching my jaw, and turned off the main road and into the smaller alleys between the houses. I picked up my pace, navigating the maze like the back of my hand. I reached a three-way junction, and that was when I had been trapped, as one figure stood at each of them.

Their eyes glowed faintly red.

My breath caught in my throat. Oni! I cursed mentally. Were the attacks on the border not enough? Had they come to finish the job? Why target me? There were others of far more value!

They crept closer, and my heart hammered in my chest. I slowly reached for my ninjato, wondering if I would be able to put up a fight. I was not as fast as I used to be, for in that sense I was still regaining my health and fitness.

However, I may have a fighting chance to escape if I knew what was coming.

I took a deep breath to steady my mind and to block out the pounding of my heart. I stared at the figure closest to me, and let my eyes defocus around the edges of his form, where the aura lay. The secondary shadow of pale grey appeared from the aura, and instead of following the motion of the individual, the individual followed the motion of the secondary shadow.

The three figures stopped, their eyes fixating on mine, and there in the reflection of their eyes, I saw the green glow of mine. I watched them carefully, and pushed the secondary shadow further through the timeline out of desperation and the need for survival, Seeing further ahead in my mind what was to happen.

The images in my mind and the secondary shadows I watched did not move to attack. Instead, they bowed, and spoke.

"Your Eminence," the first one said. "We bring you a message from our masters."

My posture did not ease, but I did tilt my head in confusion. Your Eminence? I thought, baffled. That is certainly a title I never would have put to myself.

My eyes narrowed. "Who are you and your masters?" I demanded. The fear had not gone away, for at any moment, the situation could change. The Sight did not say it would, but I was still new to this ability, and I had no intention of taking any chances, not after my last encounter.

My wrist and lungs ached more than usual, a phantom throbbing brought on from the memory and its close proximity.

"We speak on behalf of the Oda," the second one informed. "You have shown your prowess on the battlefield against us, and we wish to extend you an offer to make a deal, for being friends is far better than becoming enemies."

My eyes widened. The Oda?

"The Oda and the Akechi are ancient enemies, derived from the Taira and Minomoto clans," the third one said. "Two candidates may sit for the throne of Yomi, those being Oda Nobunaga and Akechi Mitsuhide. In a few months, the young Akechi Lord will have his coronation. But be warned, there are forces planning to sabotage this, us included."

My anger flashed. "You –!"

"However," the first one interrupted. "We will ask these forces to stand down so Akechi-sama can ascend, if you join us."

I blinked in shock. "What?"

"Your powers are invaluable, Your Eminence," the second one said with reverence, though I wondered if there was an undertone of mocking. "You will have everything you wish, power, wealth, station and more, if you join with the Oda. Your skills are wasted in the Akechi clan. You can become a queen in our world. Our kind will bow at your feet, for nothing is more powerful than a Seer from another world."

I was astounded such an offer was being made to me, but not for the reason they thought. It was a deal, an offer, which was not worth a single thought of mine.

Yes, there was the risk that the coronation could be sabotaged. I had planned on Looking ahead closer to the time to See if there was any help I could offer. And the Akechi and their allies I was sure spared no chance of ensuring their Heir was well protected. I trusted them to keep him safe. And I would do the same.

My anger burned in my chest. For them to think I would betray Mitsuhide was an insult greater than anything I had ever experienced. And the thought of them trying to blackmail me increased the fire further.

"You have no deal," I spat coldly. "I would die a thousand times, and a thousand times again before I betray my Lord."

Their eyes narrowed. "Please reconsider. You are making a terrible mistake," they snarled.

"No, she is not."

The additional voice caught all of us by surprise. I had been so focused on watching their secondary shadows for attack, that I did not See the fourth man leap down from the roof tops, as he did now, to land between the three Oni and I.

I recognised him instantly, despite his silvery hair which I had not seen in real life since he was a boy.

Mitsuhide faced the three Oni, and the three of them hissed and crouched down immediately, automatically taking a step back. He stood tall and imposing, but emanated a sense of calm, and overwhelming feeling of control which the three Oni could not break.

"Return to your masters. Osamu-sama has given you her answer."

The three of them snarled, and their eyes flickered between Mitsuhide and I. I watched them carefully, but their shadows did not attack. Even though we were outnumbered, Mitsuhide's presence to them was worth an army of a thousand soldiers.

They retreated into the darkness, and I did not See them return. So I let my Sight drop, and also sighed with relief, not realising I had been holding my breath. The tiredness washed over me and I pressed my hands to my eyes, closing them for a moment. I knew I was safe enough to be able to go blind temporarily with Mitsuhide here.

"Aki, are you alright?" I heard him ask me with concern, taking my arm so I had to lower my hand.

"Yes, I am fine," I breathed. "Just, using the Sight seems to drain a lot of energy, so I get very tired immediately afterwards. They won't be coming back though, so I think we are safe." I rubbed my eyes and blinked to try and wake myself up and look at him.

He took my breath away. The last time I had seen him in his true form was the first and only time I had seen it, many years ago. His silver hair shone like starlight, his pale skin was as smooth as porcelain and glowed like the face of the moon. His eyes shimmered like pools of garnet, and his horns were the reminder of his true nature as a contrast against the beauty of his form.

Mitsuhide looked – and felt – regal.

It was the first time I had felt that from him. He was still Mitsuhide, but he was also of Royal blood. He was powerful, imposing, and frightening. I could understand why the three Oni had immediately crouched into defensive positions and snarled upon seeing him, for gazing upon Mitsuhide was like laying eyes upon a God, one who saw all, knew all, and was undefeatable. He was one who could silence with a glance, and kill with the flick of his finger.

But to me, Mitsuhide was the individual first. I had seen him scowl and smile, I had heard his laughter, been on the end of his criticism, and heard him grumble about certain things as any person would.

"What is it, Aki?"

I smiled and shook my head. "Nothing," I said, and then looked up and the rooftops. "Thank you for arriving when you did. But what are you doing here?"

Mitsuhide indicated I follow him, and so I did. "I felt the presence of Oni in the town," he said in a hushed tone. "Sometimes they pass by along the outskirts, but they never venture inside due to our presence here. When not one, but three, came in, and close as well, I knew something was wrong. For them to come in secretly, of their own agenda, despite my family's presence, shows incredible disrespect and arrogance! To come so close, under my watch, without fear of retribution, by approaching you with such false and empty promises –" The calm iciness he had emanated to the three Oni was replaced by furious fire.

Alarmed, I caught his sleeve. "Mitsuhide-sama. You cannot think that I was swayed by their promises. My loyalty to you is absolute, and I meant what I said to them. I would rather die a thousand times over before even considering turning my back on you."

Mitsuhide stopped. His anger died, and he sighed, his eyes softening. "I know. I know you would never betray me, and to hear of your loyalty to me brings me no limit to the amount of pride and joy I can bear to speak. But that is also why I am angry, because they probably would try to kill you if they cannot make you join them. I lost you once. I cannot bear that again. Abilities or not, you are important to me. You always have been. Aki, I –" He hesitated, then stepped into a narrow side alley. I followed tentatively behind him, and he turned to face me his expression heavy. "Before I say anything else, I want you to know and understand, that I do not care about your abilities. Yes, they have immense value which is unparalleled, but it is you as the individual whom I value more than anything and anyone. Your friendship is worth more than all the wealth in the world."

I held up my hand to him. "Let me stop you there, Mitsuhide. You don't need to say any of that, because I know," I said gently. "But it is nice to hear, because I can return the same. You stand before me in this form as a Royal, for that is what you are, an entity far beyond my station. But, I like to think that I can see behind it to the man and friend at its core. And yes, that relationship to me is more than all the stars in the sky. I am glad you can see that. But, I am also still glad for my additional abilities. I don't feel so out of place then."

It was so subtle and gentle, yet so quick I did not have time to register. Mitsuhide pulled me to him and cupped my face, where he lowered his head and pressed his lips to mine. His lips were as soft as velvet, yet it was a shock which jolted through my body, alighting a fire of forbidden pleasure deep within my body and soul. My heart soared, stunning my mind further to comprehend the impossibility of a kiss with Mitsuhide.

I felt the same safety and relief of being in his arms. I was reminded by how right it felt to feel his body against mine from when I had first embraced him six weeks ago. He was the only man who could ever be in my heart.

Oh how I had wished for this to happen. And oh how I had beaten it back down. Logic and emotion clashed chaotically within.

When he pulled back, Mitsuhide did not let go and held my gaze. His were the eyes filled with love and longing. They were the same eyes which had held me just before I died on the operating table.

I suddenly understood with clarity what he had meant to say back then.

"I rejected Tsumaki-sama's daughter, because there is someone else I want."

"Marry me," he whispered.

My breath caught. I heard the words, but I struggled to relate them to the speaker directing them to me. It captured my brain and held it, trying to give it time to understand what Mitsuhide had just asked me. Yet, was it true? Was this all in my imagination? Was I dreaming?

"What?" I finally croaked. It was such an impossibility that I had never dared consider it, because it was impossible! And so, hearing those words, was the equivalent to hearing a language I did not understand in the slightest.

"I told you before, that there was a question I wanted to ask you, and hoped you would honour me by agreeing to it," he breathed. "I have wanted to ask you for such a long time, but the right moment never came. And then I realised, there is no correct moment. And so I have asked you the question my heart wants, right now. Will you marry me?"

I stared at him, and tears streamed down my face but I paid no attention to them.

"You have no idea how shocked, and happy, you have made me by hearing that question." My voice broke. "But how could you ask me such a question? You are Heir of the Oni. Your spouse must be a Pureblood like you. You are immortal, I am human. As much as I have come to love you, such a union can never take place. I have nothing to give you, except myself. And that is not enough in this world. And never will be, no matter the time era, because its you!"

Instead of his expression falling as I expected, a smile touched the edges of his lips, and he laughed.

"Why are you laughing?" I demanded. "This is not a laughing matter!"

He scooped my feet off the ground and lifted me into his arms. I clamped my hands over my mouth to swallow a startled squeak. Mitsuhide leapt up onto the rooftops, and bounded and glided over the tops of the buildings, disguised and hidden within the falling snow which masked his white appearance and muffled the silent swish of his passage.

"To know you love me is all I needed to hear," he said. "If you want me to wait until you can say 'yes' openly, then I can wait. I will wait for you until the end of time. All I want you to know in return, is I will take no one as my wife unless it is you. And I will make it happen. I will ensure everyone in Yomi knows that no one is worthy enough to stand by my side, except you. Because I love you, and only you."

I stared at him. I had nothing to say. I had confessed my love for him openly without realising, and he had done the same, but entirely consciously.

He leapt us back towards the castle in the falling snow, which danced about us like celestial jewels falling from heaven in celebration over this iconic moment in time. All I could do was continue to stare at him, and to try and comprehend the impossible turn of events, which was the reality that such a being like Mitsuhide, Prince of Yomi, Heir of the Oni, handsome, strong, kind and clever, loved me.

He loved me.