A prequel set several years before the events of A Night with Corrin. The aim of this one is to show Keiji's past bonds with Hana, Kagero and others as a younger man with far less scars. Consider it a coming of age story. I hope you enjoy it.

Naturally, I also recommend you check out A Night with Corrin beforehand if you haven't already done so.


Love and Duty

Part I - Coming of Age | Chapter I - Inheritance

You slice through the air with your wooden training sword. Bested, the Nohrian night in your mind's eye falls to the ground and his body blows away as though ash. You bow your head, the battle concluded. "Rest easy, noble foe," you recite, as a just swordsman should.

Exhausted, you drop the training sword and flop down on the family home's outer decking.

Father is your whole world. You look up to him more than anybody else does! He is strong, wise, and honourable. You want to train under him and become a swordsman more than anything. First things first though, he has an important task to embark upon with many other samurai from Izami Township.

You adjust your sitting position on the decking and watch your beloved patriarch, pride swelling in your heart. He stands at the foot of the garden path with your mother, a sword belted to his hip and a drawstring bag thrown over his shoulder.

"You will be safe, won't you?" Mother asks worriedly, a palm clutched to her chest.

Father leans in and kisses her cheek, ever the gentleman. "Of course I will, darling Kasumi. It's just a routine patrol."

"Because of the Nohrians spotted off the coast, yes?"

Father nods. "Right. We've heard rumours of ships landing east of Jinya and breaching Queen Mikoto's barrier."

Mother gasps. "But how...?"

"I cannot say, but me and the lads are headed for the coast under young Prince Ryoma's command to investigate. We shouldn't be more than three weeks."

"I still worry," Mother admits, sighing. "I'd heard the barrier saps the will to fight from all who cross it. The Nohrians shouldn't be making landfall..."

"You needn't fret, dearest." Father brings his arm around your mothers back and draws her into a hug. "Simply look after our boy, and I shall be home before you know it." Father releases Mother from his embrace and looks now to you with a warm smile. "Come on over, Keiji! Unless you'd prefer I didn't wish you farewell?" he finishes with a gleeful chuckle.

"Coming, Father!" You hop to your feet and rush on over.

Father pats your shoulder endearingly as you arrive at his side. "Now, my boy, you look after your mother until I return."

A request you'll gladly grant. You nod twice spiritedly. "Of course I will!"

"Good. Good. I know I can count on you. And before I forget..." Father looks to your mother. She nods as if approving something, and then he returns his gaze to you. "Upon my return we'll begin your training in swordplay, as you wanted."

Your stomach flutters and your heart skips a beat. "R-Really...?" you ask with wide eyes.

"Indeed we will," Father confirms with a nod. "You are twelve now, Keiji - old enough to become an apprentice."

You look to your mother with surprise. "...But I thought I was to train under a swordmaster sensei in town when I was to learn combat?"

Mother shakes her head. Taking a step nearer, she smiles tenderly. "I changed my mind, Keiji. And though the thought of you leaving Izami worries me..." Mother breathes in and out to steady her nerves. "...I know that training under your father is what you want, so you may do so." Closing the gap between you, she throws her arms around your shoulders and squeezes you tightly to her chest as though you are the most treasured thing in her world.

A gracious tear leaks from your eye. "Thank you..."

"You're most welcome, dear." Mother kisses your cheek and lets you free from her.

"Come on! We'll be late for roll call!" shouts a familiar voice, that of a man. You cast your eyes across the street. One of father's comrades - a striking fellow with a well-kempt beard and messy hair - stands by the sushi shack across from the house with folded arms and a wide grin. Beside him with an arm linked through his is a pretty miss adorning a pink yukata. The man's daughter, Yukiko.

"I'm coming, you lout!" Father answers his friend with a jovial laugh. He then looks back to you and your mother one more time. Folding his arms, he dons an affectionate smile for you both. "If I don't get going Yoji will keep on making a scene. Take care, both of you. As I said, I shall be back before you know it."

"You too, dear," your mother says, bowing her head.

"I will, Father," you add, saluting as if a samurai on the battle line.

Father salutes back. "At ease, young man." With that, the patriarch turns his back and sets off down the garden path.

He crosses the street and joins Mister Yoji by the sushi shack. Mister Yoji shares a hug with his daughter, and then he and your father set off down the road together. With each house passed, another man joins his number. Their band is nine men strong when they reach the bottom of the street. Chattering and laughing amongst themselves, the group of soldiers round the corner and leave your sights.

Beside you, Mother holds a look of immense concern.

You take her hand into yours to comfort her. Tis your job to look after her until father returns. "What's wrong, Mother?"

Your mother sighs and smiles. It's the same fragile but affectionate expression she wears when treating the sick at the town shrine. "...I'm merely concerned by what your father said about Her Majesty's barrier. The Nohrians shouldn't be able to breach it."

Some old spell raised after King Sumeragi's passing isn't important as far as you're concerned.

"It doesn't matter if they can get through now, not one bit," you say with bravado, eyes alight with fire and confidence. "Because Father and his comrades will stop those Nohrian fools right in their tracks. Not to mention Lord Ryoma commands them. They say he's the best warrior Hoshido has seen in forever."

Mother squeezes your fingers just the smallest bit tighter, her smile fraying at the edges. "...I do hope you're right, my dear."

"I know I am. Just wait and see."


Clouds blacken the sky and raindrops beats down upon your head with absolute ferocity.

Four long weeks passed without sign of Father. At first, you believed him delayed. Sadly, you now know why he hasn't returned.

Mister Yoshi - his arm held in a sling and scars scored across the left side of his face - puts your father's katana into your open hands. You stare at the weapon with eyes widened in bewilderment. Your heartbeat slows, this moment's weight hitting you as though a violent tidal wave.

A second passes. Two. Three. Four. Five.

"I'm sorry, Kasumi," Yoshi utters to your mother beside you, his voice cracking. "There were far more Nohrians than we expected. He- He gave his life so we could withdraw and regroup. We won... but a Nohrian cavalryman trampled him underfoot. We buried him a mile off the coast after the battle was done..."

Your mother falls to her knees and weeps into her palms. Yoshiro kneels beside her and touches a hand to her shoulder.

You close your hands around father's katana, meanwhile.

Pain and bitterness both swell inside of you, like likes of which you've never known before. "...You lied to me."

You crunch your eyes closed and grip the sword tighter still, your hands trembling.

"You said you'd come home, Father..."

Agony twisting into burning anger, you spring to your feet and dart headlong down the road.

You care not where you end up. All you desire is to be away from the house. Away from everything.

Your legs begin burning three or four streets further into the centre of town. Exhausted, you drop to your knees and pant for breath. In a desperate attempt to force air into your aching lungs, you breathe In and out shakily.

In. And out. In. And out. Eyes fixated on the sword within your trembling hand, you choke out a sob.

The clacking of sandals ahead snaps you from your daze. You raise your eyes to meet the sound. Surely enough, a pair of dainty sandaled feet with toenails painted red with varnish stand just ahead. You raise your eyes higher up the length of an artfully crafted red kimono. They meet with those of the garment's owner - an astonishingly radiant young woman. Her deep black eyes soothe you. Her soft features enchant you, and silky black hair pools down her back. She holds a wooden parasol in one of her slender hands and a tobacco pipe in the other. Smiling lovingly, the girl kneels to your level and protects you from the rain with her parasol.

"Whatever is the matter, young man?" the gorgeous stranger asks with care.

You let Father's sword fall from your hands, dabbing your eyes with the back of a drenched hand. "My father... He's gone..."

"...I see." The lady takes an elegant drag from her pipe, breathes out, and smiles so very sadly. "And your father was a soldier, I take it?"

You nod. "...Right. How'd you know?"

"A sword is quite the giveaway." The girl sighs sadly, pain glinting deep within her eyes. "And the same happened to me, too..." She wears a look of consideration for an instant, and then cups a hand to your cheek. "What is your name, if I may be so bold as to ask on our first meeting?"

"K-Keiji. It's Keiji."

"Keiji. A dashing name for a dashing young man, if I do say so myself."

A satisfied twinge grips you despite your misery. Face heating from the compliment, you smile. "...I appreciate you saying so, Miss."

"You're very welcome," the girl chuckles. "And my name is Miko. I work at the sake den just down the road, on the corner of Shikori Street."

Quiet unease fills you at Miko's admission. Gently, you move her hand from your cheek. "...It's probably best I go."

"And why might that be, hmm?" Miko tilts her head to the side and flashes the most darling smile you have ever seen. Her doing so disarms you even in the depths of grief. "...Is it because of what I do for a living, I wonder?" She puts her hand on your shoulder.

You hang your head, again looking to Father's sword. "...Mother warned me to keep away from Shikori Street."

"And here you are, all the same. Just a stone's throw away."

"...I didn't do so by choice," you mumble in protest.

"Grief brings us to the strangest of places, darling," Miko hums, squeezing your shoulder gently. "I know that all too well, given my father was a soldier too."

"You said as much. It doesn't mean I should stick around here though..."

Miko tuts at you. "A pity, truly. And here I thought we were bonding."

You lift your head and smile thinly. A part of you appreciates the company of a girl so pretty, deep down. "...Just don't tell my mother I was here, alright?"

"I won't tell Miss Kasumi a thing, sweetie. It's a promise." Miko winks.

Your brow cranks upward out of surprise. "You know who I am, it seems."

"I do, though it's nothing nefarious, I assure you." Miko smokes from her pipe, turning her head for a moment and exhaling tobacco smoke. She then takes a small fabric pouch from her inside her kimono and puts away her pipe. "We laid my sister to rest at the town shrine just last year. More people know of your mother than you think. As for you, well, I see you run chores for her quite often."

Miko's reasoning makes sense, given your mother is Izami's head shrine maiden and all. "Alright, fine. You win."

"Lovely. Just lovely." Miko's playful expression turns thoughtful suddenly. She sighs softly, then closes her eyes for a second and shakes her head. "...Honestly though, how are you feeling, Keiji?"

You scoff. A foolish question. "How did you feel when your father passed?"

"...A fair point," Miko replies glumly, re-opening her eyes. They radiate compassion now. Shifting her hand from your shoulder, she again cups your cheek. "Tell me something, if you would be so kind. Do you intend to follow in your father's stead? Will you take the fight to Nohr?"

Heart hardening and eyes surging with spirit, you nod. "...Without a doubt in my mind."

"Even if the road is long and painful...?"

"I don't care what it takes. The Nohrians made Mother weep. I won't forgive them for that."

"Then you're far stronger than I was at your age, Keiji." Tragedy written across her face, Miko leans nearer. "Now, would you like me to ease your pain, perhaps? It's the least I can do, given all you've just shared with me." She smiles so very sadly. "A youth or no, too few are kind to women like me..."

"But why not...? You're radiant, Miss Miko."

"And you, young man, will be dangerous when you come of age," Miko giggles sweetly. "So, how about it? Can I return the favour for your being nice?"

"I guess so. What are you thinking?"

"Shut your eyes, dearest," Miko purrs. "I'll take care of it."

"Alright." You do as asked, an eager shiver running down your back.

Miko leans nearer. You feel the warmth of her breath and take in the powerful scent of tobacco from her clothes. A second passes. Two. Three. Your heart hammering excitedly. Stranger or no, you grow fonder of this wonderful lady by the second.

"Very good," Miko praises. "Now, keep them closed." Without another word, she presses her mouth to yours. Your heartbeat a drum, you moan into Miko out of surprise. Enjoyment too. A kiss! An honest to goodness kiss!

Every inch of you screams out in delight. Miko wraps her arms around your shoulders, meanwhile. You melt into her embrace with a satisfied whine. You aren't hurting anymore. Locked in this special moment, all of the pain and the anger fizzle away.

And all too soon, Miko releases your lips from hers with a smack. Overwhelmed, you slump into the girl's arms and pant for breath.

"How are you feeling now, Keiji?" Miko hums affectionately, holding you to her chest.

"...Like I could fight the whole world," you exhale limply, worn out.

"Wonderful. And what of your heart? Does it still hurt?"

"Not at all."

"Wonderful. Then it seems I've done well." Miko gently releases you from her embrace.

Picking up Father's sword, you rise on two shaky legs. Already fairly tall for your age, only a few inches separate you from older girl in height. Emulating the way Father treated mother, you throw an arm around your waist and bow for Miss Miko. "Thank you so much."

"The pleasure was all mine." Miko winks, inching back from you and withdrawing her parasol. The rain has stopped. "Now, I really must be off home. Before I go though, tell me something please, Keiji. Do you really mean what you said earlier? Will you really become a samurai?"

"You're damn right I will," you pledge, placing Father's sword under your arm and balling a hand into a determined fist.

"I'm glad to hear that, truly. Then be sure to treasure my little gift to you this day, as well."

"I will." You smile from ear to ear. "You can count on it."

"I'm glad, because whenever the road is long and your heart is heavy with sadness, there is no better feeling than the lover of another." Advice given, Miko blows you a kiss. "And with that, I shall leave you now. Take care, my hopeful samurai. May I see you grace the drill yards very soon."

You bow with the utmost respect for Miss Miko. "Oh I'll be there."

"I should hope so. Farewell for now, Keiji."

"Farewell."

You straighten your back and stand tall. Miss Miko is partway down the street now. You watch her round the corner with a glow to your cheeks. Then, deeply satisfied, you turn around and start on your way back home. Mother needs you. From this day forward, you are the man of the house.

You will take up Father's sword and fight. No matter what.

Clutching a hand to your chest, you look to the cloudy sky above.

"The love of another..." Miko's kiss flashes through your thoughts, ghostly tingles touching your lips. "...Yes, it's definitely the greatest of feelings."

A feeling that numbs even the deepest of pains.


You have walked the streets every single day for the past several weeks in search of a dojo to train you in the arts of combat. Every single one up until this point has refused you on account of being a few years younger than most apprentice swordsman. Their doing so frustrates you greatly.

Defeated, you sit down at the roadside and gaze thoughtfully at the small drawstring bag of silver coins in your hand.

"What difference does my age make...? The earlier I begin training, the sooner I can fight for Hoshido."

Groaning irritably, you hop to your feet. "Fine then... I've no choice."

You take a left at the end of the street, past the old carriage driver and further still beyond the old fishmonger's shop. You will return to the place mother forbade you from going, and this time willingly. "Shikori Street. Miss Miko is bound to know somebody."

Another left. Another right. Past a band of old men huddled at the side of Tenshin Road playing dice. Another left turn and you're there - Shikori Street. Several pretty girls wearing kimono stand together talking out front of a large building standing taller than most on two floors. Several smoke from tobacco pipes and exchange idle chatter while fluttering their long lashes at young men passing by. An onlooker offers one lass his hand, which she takes. She then leads him through the doors of the building behind her and closes the sliding door.

A quick glance over the women reveals no sign of the person you're looking for, sadly. Shrugging them off, you keep moving ahead. Surely enough, you soon find the girl you're after. Younger than most you saw further up the street, she sports the same striking red kimono as when you last saw her. Simply laying eyes upon her again sets your heart fluttering. Looking saddened, the girl smokes from her pipe and looks a hundred miles away from the rest of the world.

Whatever ails her, you pray you might help.

"Miss Miko!" you call out to her.

Turning to greet you, the young miss perks up and flashes a tiny welcoming smile. "Hello there, Keiji. Come to visit me again, have you. I'm flattered, truly."

That is when you see it - bruising around Miko's left eye. A frightened gasp leaves you. "Are you alright, Miss Miko...? Your eye..."

"I am, yes," she answers meekly, obscuring the injury with strands of her silky black hair. "...One of my clients was too rough with me, that's all."

"Too rough..." You scowl, balling your free hand into a fist. "...Father always told me to treat women with kindness and respect."

Miko smiles thinly, stepping closer and resting a dainty hand upon your shoulder for a second. "Then your father was a better man than most who frequent streets like these." Putting away her pipe, Miko sighs glumly. "But enough about that..." The girl eyes the bag of coin in your hand and chuckles sweetly, raising a hand to her mouth. "I do hope you aren't here to hire me, young man. You're still a few years too young for wine and women."

The thought of sharing more kisses with Miko has your face burning and your heart hammering! "N-No! It's nothing like that!"

"I'm only teasing, precious," chuckles Miko. "Then tell me, why are you here? Folks will certainly get the wrong impression if you come to places like these with bags of coin in your hand. And not all will have the kindest of intentions for you, trust me."

"I'm in search of a swordmaster - a sensei to teach me," you explain, slipping the bag of coins safely away into the inside pocket of your robe. "I came here because you said your father was a warrior when we last met. Most refuse me because I'm too young. So, I was hoping you might help."

"A swordmaster, hmm?" Miko taps a finger against her chin in pondering. Realization sparkling in her eyes, she snaps her fingers. "I think I might just know somebody, although the fellow is rather old and something of a hermit these days. Your mother may object."

"Mother isn't home much since father passed," you answer in a low voice, a dull ache gripping your chest. "She works twice as hard caring for the shrine and tending the sick without him here."

Miko nods understandingly. "Such is the way of an adult's life. And I take it the coin you have is all she could spare?"

"Right. She said we can't afford sending me to a combat academy now that father isn't here, so I have to find a swordmaster in town."

"Of course, it makes sense. Very well then, Keiji. Go to the corner of Ishin Street by the old ironworker's house. You will find a dojo there. Head inside once the noon sun stands bright in the sky, at around noon. I shall meet you there. The old man there was once a great swordsman."

"He was?" you ask with a raised brow. "I've never heard of a swordsman living down Ishin Street."

"You won't have, no. He stopped training new recruits before you were born."

"Then how do you know about him?"

"He trained my father; back when my family and I still lived in the capital."

You whistle, honestly impressed. "You lived in Shirasagi?"

Miko nods, a look of fondness taking her. "I did. Father moved us here after King Sumeragi was killed though. That same swordsman I mentioned, he remained a family friend of ours until somewhat recently. He offered to train me too, but..." Miko shakes her head, her features becoming dour and rainy. "I chose a different path after my father's passing. Anyway... That is another story for another time. Meet me at Ishin tomorrow and I shall see you enrolled."

You bring an arm around your waist and bow for Miss Miko. "You have my thanks. Really, you do."

"The pleasure is all mine, Keiji." Miko lowers her head graciously. "Young or no, you're about the only person who shows me kindness these days."

You frown at Miko's admission. You're wise enough to know what happens in sake dens despite not being of age just yet. The mere thought of a girl as kind and pretty as Miko being mistreated has your blood boiling. "Why not just leave that place...?" you question in a low voice, trying to remain composed.

Miko sighs deeply. Then she leans closer and kisses your forehead. Leaning away from you afterward, her smile is one of the saddest you've ever seen. "Because I cannot afford to buy back my family home. And I also have to pay Mistress Keiko a tribute should I leave the den, which I cannot afford."

You massage your temples, confused. "Goodness, adult matters are confusing sometimes..."

Miko chuckles. Then she folds her arms behind her back and winks at you. "The fact you don't quite understand proves there is still innocence within you. Though I imagine you'll soon understand far more of life in the coming months and years. And should I help you along the way, then that is enough for me."

"You really are kind, Miss Miko." A good swordsman would help somebody like that, even in a small way. "Here..." You take out the coin purse from your robe's inside pocket. Loosening the drawstring, you empty half a dozen silver coins into your hand. Stowing the bag again, you offer out your hand. "I want you to have these, so you can see somebody about that eye. Mother once told me a decent doctor isn't more than five silver if you know where to look."

"Y-You would really help me so...?" Miko unfolds her arms and clutches a palm to her chest. Her eyes tremble and well with water.

"I would, yes," you answer with a smile. "Because we're friends. And..." Your cheeks redden a touch. "I think Mother was wrong about places like these. Not all of the ladies walking Shikori Street cause trouble. I-I'm fairly certain you don't, Miss Miko."

Without so much as a word, Miko throws her arms around you and pulls you to her chest. Shuddering with emotion, she weeps against your shoulder. "You really are a precious young man. Please, promise you'll do your best to stay this way, even when you get older..."

"I promise," you pledge at a whisper, totally awestruck and overwhelmed by Miko's tears. Breathing in her familiar scent of tobacco and perfume, you relax into her embrace and surrender to her. "...Even if I don't entirely understand why it's important I do."

"You'll know sooner rather than later, darling," the girl sniffles, burying her face against your shoulder.

Still utterly lost, all you can do is loop an arm around Miko's waist and hold her. Relaxing your palm as you do, the coins therein fall to the cobblestones.

For all you grasp of the adult world, a dozen things more elude you.


You enjoyed little in the way of restful sleep last night. Thoughts of Father and Miko's tears kept you awake long into the early hours. What's more, Mother remained at the temple caring for the sick all night. She still hadn't returned home even as you prepared to set out for the day. Lacking her company in the house only made thoughts of life swell ever stronger within your frazzled mind.

Sighing, you shake your head and calm your racing thoughts.

You stand outside of the dojo on the corner of Ishin Street. Miko stands beside you with her arms folded and a deeply thoughtful look written across her face. Today she wears a simple white yukata without patterning, and wears her long hair back in a ponytail with a twine band. With her hair moved from her eyes, you see her slim face in even greater detail. Where she looked lovely yesterday and the time before, today she looks simply ravishing.

Tearing your thoughts from your pretty companion, you look ahead to the dojo.

Unlike many swordsmanship schools in town - the likes of which display their names with hand carved signs in large kanji above the door - this one lacks any such symbols of pride nor particular interest. The building itself is small and unassuming, sporting an average sliding panel door. It's as though this is large family home more than a school. The grass in the front garden at either side of the worn cobblestone path grows wild and long, also.

Folding your arms, you glance over to Miko with a raised brow. "You're sure this is the place?"

"Absolutely, Keiji." Miko sets off ahead down the path. "I shall lead. Follow me."

You follow Miko along the path and up the rickety wooden steps leading onto the outer decking. The two of you then pause to remove your sandals (as politeness dictates before entering the property of another) and then head inside through the open door.

Your whole perspective changes in an instant. You gasp out of surprise. "Light Dragon be praised..."

Before you is wide-open hall with waxed wooden floors. Scrolls baring Hoshidan kanji - symbols of power and wisdom - line the walls to your left. To the right are racks of swords and naginata. Standing ahead of them as though a beacon to your young mind is a set of swordmaster's armor, its plates dyed a vibrant red. Something about this place shines for you as though a beacon amidst your recent pain and misfortune.

"You're impressed, I take it?" Miko asks with a giggle, patting your shoulder.

"You're damned right I am..."

Miko closes the sliding door and the two of you walk further inside.

A shrine decorated with unlit candles and sakura petals sits against the rightmost wall. A sheathed katana lays across it. Sitting ahead of the font of worship with legs folded and eyes closed, is a man. Time weathers his face and wears his gray hair in a mid-length ponytail. He adorns a simple gray silk yukata with white accenting familiar to those of common-born warrior households. You know this because your father often wore the same.

The old man opens his eyes and gets to his feet. He looks Miko and yourself with a steely gaze, clears his throat, and then folds his arms. Miko lowers onto her hands and knees in prostration next to you. Following her example, you do the very same.

"And so my goddaughter returns at long last," the man remarks, his voice wise sounding but likewise deepened with age. "And she brings with her a friend."

Your heartbeat quickens in your chest. Miko didn't mention anything about being related to this swordmaster.

"I do, Roku. A friend in need of your help and guidance."

The swordmaster's name imprints itself on your mind. You won't forget it.

"I see two kneeled before me in need of my guidance, young Miko," Roku states, somewhat disheartened. "Now please, dear girl... raise your head and rise to your knees. You too, young man. I am not some highborn from the halls of Castle Shirasagi."

You and Miko rise to a more informal position as instructed. The old warrior then steps closer and kneels to your level. He looks first to Miko and touches his hand to her head. "It is good to see you again, my dear."

"As it is you, good sir," the girl replies affectionately.

"Indeed. It has been far too long." Roku removes his hand from Miko's head and turns his gaze upon you. His eyes, full to brimming with strength, leave you quietly amazed. "Is this this the young man you spoke of in your letter to me last night?"

"It is, Godfather. This is Keiji - son of Miss Kasumi," Miko answers.

"But of course. I see his mother looking back at me - the very same as when I visit the town shrine." Roku tightens his focus the smallest bit. Expression radiating seriousness, he places a firm hand upon your shoulder. "Tell me something, young man. Are the things that my goddaughter say about you true?"

You suddenly feel nervous. "...It depends on what she's told you, sir."

The aged man's lips rise into a small smile. "She told me that you have shown her kindness, where a great many more treat her with cruelty. She likewise told me that you seek to become a swordsman in your father's stead. So tell me, young man, are both of these true?"

"They are, sir," you answer with a bow of the head. "Miko comforted me on the day my father died. She's my friend... And yes, I want more than anything to become a swordsman and follow in Father's footsteps." Finding your strength, you muster your confidence and hone your stare.

"I see." Roku rises and steps back from you. He then folds his arms behind his back and wears a look of contemplation.

Shortly thereafter, he meets your plea with a hearty, grizzled chuckle. You raise your head from the lacquered wooden floor. "Please!" you petition; desperation laces your voice. "I ask that you take me on as your apprentice!"

"Hmmm..." The wise master further ponders while brushing a hand through his beard.

Chirping cicada permeate the air - the only saviors from deathly silence as you await the verdict.

"And why, young Keiji, do you wish to learn the warrior's arts?"

In your heart, there is only one answer. "To make the world a better place, Master... So none will know pain ever again."

Again, the wise master chuckles. Warmed by your desire, he kneels to your level once more. "Very well, young one. From this day forward, I will be your sensei."

Your heart swells with joy, with pride. "Really...?!"

"Indeed," the master nods. "I will train you. However, you shall be my last. And so I hereby promise to make you my best."

You again bow your head, tears welling in your eyes. "Thank you, Sensei."

"Think nothing of it, young Keiji." The master places his hand upon your small shoulder, smiling. "But before we begin, you must realize something."

You eagerly await your new teacher's sagely knowledge. "But of course. What is it?"

Sensei rises to his feet and offers a hand. You take it and he brings to your feet.

"This world of ours is one of great joy and sorrow both," the old warrior imparts, folding his arms. "Know you that one cannot exist without the other."

"Then I'll change it!" you pledge proudly with a hand on your heart. "I'll make a better world where no one hurts anymore."

In response to your declaration, Master smiles so very sadly. "You will try, I am sure. The fires in your eyes tell me as such." He looks again to Miko. "And what of you, my dear? Will you leave behind the life you know and return here? A young lady of eighteen has far more to offer the world as a samurai."

"Regrettably, I must decline, Godfather. Mistress Keiko demands my virginity as tribute should I wish to leave, or a substantial retainer's fee."

You gasp, eyes shooting wide. "...So that's why you're stuck in Shikori Street?"

"I'm afraid so, Keiji," Miko utters ashamedly.

"It is a pity that such a vixen controls you so," laments Roku, frowning most deeply. "However, I warned you not to seek her aid."

"I know you did, Godfather. I know..."

"Which is why I would reqyest a favour in return of my new student," Master adds, looking again to you expectantly. "Keiji, I would have you promise me something in return for my training."

You point to yourself. "Of me...?"

"Indeed, young one." Roku nods. "I will train you so you may join the local garrison. In exchange, I would have you watch after Miko once you are stronger, at least until she is finally able to get free of that wretched place. Enough knaves have pawed and groped at her without recourse."

You don't think twice. "I'll do it. It's a promise." You take Miko's hand into yours and smile warmly, and she blushes in return.

"Then we are agreed," declares Roku. "From this day onward, I will work tirelessly to shape you into the finest samurai Hoshido has seen."

You shed a grateful tear. "Thank you, Master."

From today, everything changes. You will become a warrior who strikes fear into Nohrian hearts. And you'll honor your promise to Roku, too.


Three years later...

Master Roku's dojo is your home away from home. Within these four walls, you have learned some of the greatest skills and life lessons of apprentice swordsman. Your sensei has but a few important things left to impart now that you stand on the cusp of adulthood.

You will listen, and you will listen well. Day by day, your wise old mentor has shaped you from a feeble child into a sharp-minded young man.

"Just as we have practiced before, my young student," Master instructs, patting your shoulder. "Clear your mind and concentrate."

"As you ask of me, Sensei."

You sit down and fold your legs into a meditation stance. Then you close your eyes.

"Good. Now, cast aside your earthly worries and focus instead on the energy around you. Hear the cicada chirp, and listen to the wind."

You focus all of your mental energy of the chirping cicada. In your mind's eye, you envision the little insects. You hear the afternoon breeze twisting and swirling around them too. These are the forces of nature at play, the very essence of life itself.

"I sense them, Master Roku."

"Very good. And now you must remind me: of what significance do these elements hold?"

"They are blessings from our benevolent Light Dragon - the protector of all Hoshidans. Only by keeping our hearts in balance and our intentions just can we truly strive and excel as warriors."

"Correct." You sense Master sit down beside you. He likewise joins your meditation. "Now, Keiji, you would do well to remember this skill in battle. It is a technique requiring great mental fortitude, and attunement with our latent magical essence. However, if used properly it may enhance your perception."

"Meaning I'll develop a greater reading of my foes?"

"If you are diligent, yes. I learned the technique many years prior, during my youth in Hoshido's capital. It was imparted by the late Sumeragi's father."

The image of a master samurai adorning regal plate armor paints your thoughts. "You never told me that you trained among royalty."

Master Roku chuckles softly. "My dear boy, this was long before Sumeragi won the Great Tourney and became king of Hoshido. His father was but a samurai belonging to a noble house." Your sensei sighs deeply, almost longingly. "Though such memories seem an eternity ago. So much has changed since then..."

All you have ever known is a world where tensions run high between Hoshido and Nohr. Sensei lived in an era before that.

You're curious to learn more.

"Have relations between Hoshido and Nohr always been sour, Master?"

"Not always, Keiji. When King Garon first surpassed his great uncle some years prior, ties between our two nations were decent. All of that seemed to change just a couple of years before King Sumeragi's passing. Nohrian ships would land on the coast and engage in skirmishes with our samurai. Although, it wasn't until King Sumeragi was lured to Cheve and assassinated that Hoshidan feelings peaked to boiling like they have today."

You know the rest of Hoshido's recent history well. Almost too well. "They abducted Princess Corrin, and now their soldiers breach Queen Mikoto's barrier."

"Precisely. I feel as though we have discussed history enough for today, however. You my open your eyes, young man."

You do as Sensei suggests. He then rises to his feet and offers you a hand. You accept, and he pulls you to your feet.

"Thank you for the lesson today, Master Roku." You take a step back and bow deeply, out of respect and gratitude.

The master returns the bow. "You are quite welcome. I take it you will visit Miko today, yes?"

You smirk. Sensei knows you inside out. "Don't I most nights?"

"Indeed you do. And for that, you have my gratitude." Roku smiles sadly. "What I would not give to release her from Miss Keiko's clutches."

"You may leave that to me, Master," you say with surety, giving a thumbs-up. "I just need a bit more time."

Master hums worriedly, a look of concern about him. "You be careful around that woman, Keiji."

"I know, I know. I do my best."

"Do not let your guard down. You need look no further than many of the unfortunate men and women trapped in Keiko's employ to know her capabilities."

"You needn't remind me, Master." An image of Miko serving drinks in her graceful red kimono flashes through your thoughts. "They're indentured servants at best and unwilling prostitutes at worst." Miko's debt is small enough that she remains the former. You intend to keep it that way.

"So long as you do not forget."

"You may rest assured that I won't." You bow once more and turn to leave. "I'll see you tomorrow, Sensei." Glancing over your shoulder, you wave farewell.

"Indeed you shall."

Opening the sliding door, you step outside.

A calming sunset paints the sky overhead orange. Soothed by its radiance, you exhale your worldly tension.

"Back to the house first. Then Miko."

Mother asked you return home after your training today. She apparently had some important news to share with you.


You sit with crossed legs on your cushion at the dinner table. A bowl of freshly steamed rice and sliced salmon awaits your attention. Mother sits across from you. She wears her usual plain white robes and her long black hair is loose from its usual ponytail. Eyes closed and hands clasped together, she bares an expression most serene and sports the softest of smiles. A woman both kind and loving beyond compare, you would do anything for her.

"Keiji, dear, would you say tonight's prayer before we eat?"

A tradition of sorts. One that Mother has kept since before Father's passing. One you now honor as samurai of the household.

"No problem, Mother." You bring your hands together and close your eyes. "Light Dragon, we thank you for another warm day and a plate of fine food. May your light shine over Hoshido forever more. Blessed are you, our benevolent protector." You re-open your eyes.

"Well said, dear." Mother smiles thankfully for the blessing and starts on her rice. You follow her lead, tucking into your salmon instead.

A good few mouthfuls sees your stomach gurgle with appreciation.

Setting down her bowl and chopsticks, Mother chuckles. "Hungry after today's training, are we?"

Likewise putting down your bowl, you smirk. "Hungry hardly covers it. The master kept me busy as always."

"And how is old Roku today?" Mother wonders, taking a small pinch of seasoning spice from the plate at the center of the table and sprinkling it over her rice.

"Good, but as hardy as ever." You sip from the sake cup beside your rice bowl and put it back down. "He'll probably have me sparring with bears before long."

Mother raises a hand to her mouth and titters. "Should he do that then you let me know right away."

"You can count on it."

The two of you resume eating quietly. Cicada chirp and the evening air is pleasant. Relaxation washes over you after a hard day.

Eager as you are to strike out on your own, you enjoy moments of peace such as these. They're most welcome distractions from your worries over Miko and your willingness to face Hoshido. Though quaint and sometimes samey, you honestly would not trade them for the world.

A good few mouthfuls of dinner further, you set down your bowl for a bit more idle chatter. "How was your day today?"

"Good, dear, good." Mother puts down her bowl and dabs the corners of her lips with her favorite red silk handkerchief. "I received a letter today, between my works. It was from young lady, an apprentice ninja from the village of Kochi to the east. It's part of the reason I asked you join me early tonight."

Kochi, now there's a name you don't hear mentioned often. "Kochi..." You snap your fingers to jog your memory. "That's a ninja village, isn't it?"

"It is, yes. A peaceful place tucked away in the far eastern mountains. Just a few dozen households and a single noble family live there, I'm told."

You raise a curious brow. "It's sort of strange, that this girl wrote a letter to you specially, I mean. Just what did she want?"

"She wrote to me as head of this town's shrine," Mother explains. "This young lady is the only daughter of the noble family tasked with overseeing Kochi."

"A highborn, hmm? Interesting. I'm guessing she had a request?" You cannot imagine a girl from a place so far off writing to Mother otherwise.

"She did, yes." Mother nods. She then sips from her cup of water and puts it back down. "You see, her elder brother Shoji suffers with a rare illness that withers his legs. His sister, Kagero, is bringing him here to Izami so he might receive treatment."

"Aren't there closer shrines on the road to Izami? Kochi must be over a hundred miles away."

Mother shakes her head. "Izami is the closest to Kochi Village, given its seclusion. What's more, they are already on their way here."

They won't have much luck, you fear. "But the shrine is already full with those fighting off the recent fatigue sickness, you said so yourself."

"It is true there is no room at the shrine." Mother smiles thinly, reaching over and touching a hand to your shoulder. Compassion shines brightly in her eyes. "Which is why I gave them permission to stay here, with us. They will be here tomorrow."

You sigh deeply, hanging your head. "House guests on a day's notice, really...?"

"Did I do wrong, dear...?"

"No Mother, you didn't." You shake your head. "Tis your house now that father is no longer with us, and I'll abide your rules... It's just..." You lift your head and lock gazes with your beloved matriarch. "You're too kind to people. I know it's the Hoshidan way to help, but it isn't as though we have the space here, for one." You recall the last time you had houseguests, grimacing internally. "When Miss Miyura and her mother stayed with us it got really cramped."

"Which is why I wanted to speak with you before they arrived."

You touch your hand to the one Mother rests upon your shoulder, smiling tersely. "And just where will they sleep? We cannot exactly put a young miss and her sickly brother here in the dining room. Unless you're suggesting..." A nervous thought flashes through your mind - there and gone in an instant but no less unnerving. "...Please don't tell me I have to shift things out of Father's storage room again."

"Not this time dear, no." Mother squeezes your fingers comfortingly. You can't help notice she looks rather nervous all of the sudden, though. "Mister Kanasaki and his nephew already stopped by today and moved all of your father's things into the shed by the pond. So, we've already a place for Kagero's brother to stay, one spacious and comfortable enough to accommodate his needs while resting."

Your brow cranks brow jerks futher upward. "Then what must I do this time...?"

Mother moves her hand from her shoulder and rests it with the other in her lap. Her smile frays at the edges, her expression becoming the slightest bit uneasy. "Well, there is still the matter of where Miss Kagero will sleep. And, you see, I was hoping she might share your room."

Your heartbeat damn near skips a beat. "You're putting the young lady in my room, and you're alright with that...?"

"I am. There is not the space in my room, especially since we traded after your father's passing. You wanted the extra space for combat scrolls, after all."

You sigh deeply for the second time tonight. "Fair's fair on that front. You know that isn't what I meant though."

Mother's cheeks pinken a touch. She's an innocent soul through and through. "I'm aware of what you meant, Keiji dear."

You nod in confirmation. "And you are truly okay with a girl being in my bedroom while under your roof; a stranger at that?"

"I have no problems, not least with you courting that young lady from Shikori Street at the moment."

Mother's answer, you didn't expect. You throw up your hands defensively. "Miss Miko and I aren't together or anything, y-you have the wrong idea."

Mother chuckles preciously, raising a hand to her mouth. "You could have fooled me with the way you two walk hand-in-hand all of the time."

"We're... We're close, alright?" you flounder, voice cracking. "Tis nothing more than that..."

"Very well then, my darling boy." Mother lowers her hand from her mouth. She wears a darling smile. "But all the same, I had hoped you might share your room with our lady guest. You are usually out well into the evening most days anyway, so I do not see the problem."

A fair enough point. You'll give ground. "I can't fault your thinking there, I guess. Alright then. Miss Kagero can stay with me."

"Thank you, Keiji, for being accommodating to those in need." Mother leans across the table and kisses your forehead.

Sitting down on her cushion again, she winks. "...But should you and our house guest become close then I expect you to do the right thing and marry her."

Your face burns red-hot. "Mother!"

The shrine maiden clutches a hand to her chest and giggles. "Worry not, dear, I'm only teasing."

"...I should hope so."

"I am, I promise." Discussion concluded, Mother returns to her dinner.

You sip your sake and look outside. With the weather being so warm this time of year, Mother usually leaves one of the dining room's sliding panels open.

Tis all quiet out in the street, save for the occasional passer-by. A pair in particular catch your attention. A young boy no older than five or six at a glance is lead along by an older man well into his twenties. His father, you assume. The older man carries a look of happiness on his face.

The sight causes a dull ache in your chest. You exhale beneath your breath. A distraction is in order.

"When tomorrow will our guests arrive?" you ask Mother, finishing your drink and staring into the cup in your palm.

"In the afternoon, most likely," the matriarch answers. "Will you be coming home to greet them?"

"After my patrol and visiting Miko, yes."

"Good, good. I'm sure the pair will be nice enough."

"I imagine so," you agree somewhat absent-mindedly.

"Who knows? The lady kunoichi might even be a welcome companion for you. I heard in her letter that she's rather dutiful. You have that in common already."

"That so?" You glance back to Mother for a second and then continue watching the world outside. "I'll keep that in mind."

There's one thing you're certain of however, if nothing else. "Kagero's a nice name, really pretty."

You'll know soon enough if the nice name matches the person.

To be continued...


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