Shadowed Footprints
This is a Miyu fanfic set in an alternate universe so in case you start shouting 'where's the Shinma?' I have to break it to you, there isn't any. Sorry! The story is set in old Japan mixed with other typical fantasy touches. It is, sadly, free of vampires. Sorry again, folks. Enjoy!
* * *
The general atmosphere of Lord Yamano's garden was relaxing and tranquil. The lawns were neat and the flowers colourful. The trees swayed peacefully and to garnish the ambience that the garden portrayed were the little touches such as the gold birdcage filled with many coloured birds and the fountain gushing crystal water. A girl of sixteen sat perched on the edge of the fountain staring dejectedly into its waters. She was Miyu Yamano, daughter of the great Lord Yamano. She wore a kimono so beautiful most girls would give their right hands to own but Miyu ignored the exquisite designs and soft material and gazed angrily at the marble walls that surrounded the gardens. The walls, her father had told her, were for keeping common filth and thieves out, but Miyu felt that their main purpose was for keeping her in, and she longed to go beyond the confinements of the palace. Miyu turned at the sound of footsteps.
"My lady?" It was Hisae, one of the servant girls. "Your father is demanding your presence in the tearoom."
"Hisae," Miyu sighed. Hisae was not surprised that Lady Miyu knew her name. Her father did not know that his daughter spent more time in the servant's quarters than in the palace halls, talking to each servant and asking of the outside world. Hisae pitied Miyu. The girl was, and felt it, trapped.
"Yes, my lady?"
"Tell me. Is there a duke or lord of some sort to accompany us?" Miyu saw Hisae stare uncomfortably at the ground.
"Lord Ohnishi brings his son who will be inheriting his estate and business," Hisae mumbled, not meeting her mistress' eyes.
Miyu smiled sadly and turned back to the fountain, twining her brown hair between her fingers. So her father would marry her off, or was this just another business deal? Miyu dreaded the day she would become someone's sweetheart, and though she looked so dignified and calm about that matter, secretly she wanted to throw herself on the ground and beat her fist in angry hysterics.
"Hisae," she said quietly. "Please leave. Inform father I will be there shortly."
Hisae nodded and retreated back a few steps. Her ears had not missed the slight tremor in Lady Miyu's voice. She knew that no one longed as much as Lady Miyu for freedom. She paused for a moment, conflicting whether to tell her ladyship of her father's intentions. She decided against it. Miyu seemed a calm person, but deep down she would not hesitate to do something drastic. Hisae turned and hurried up the steps back into the palace.
Miyu watched Hisae leave and then she also rose and headed for the tearoom with a feeling of impending doom.
* * *
The tearoom was one of the most elegant rooms in the palace. Many palaces were prided for their banquet rooms or their entrance halls but Lord Yamano's palace was famous for its tearoom. It slipped slightly out of the original Japanese theme and became slightly Romanesque. There was a marble colonnade. Lord Yamano liked his marble. Rugs imported from India woven from red and gold strands lined the floors and terracotta pots containing tropical flowers were placed around the room adding a touch of nature to the environment. One long low table sat in the centre of the room, carved from mahogany. Cups of spiced herbal tea sat on the table with its owner kneeling before them.
Miyu had noticed that she had been deliberately positioned to sit near Lord Ohnishi's son, a boy of eighteen named Shintaro. Her father sat the other side of her and watched her every move. Lord Yamano knew his daughter was like a bomb ready to go off at the slightest disturbance. He would have to be eloquent and subtle when stating the plans to her without causing a fuss, which worried him for he was not renowned for being a subtle man. Miyu sipped her tea and made no attempt to start a conversation. Lord Ohnishi was currently talking about a business plan and her father was listening avidly. So far, Shintaro had remained as silent as she.
From behind one of the pillars, a red-haired servant girl watched curiously. Her name was Chisato and she had always been fond of Miyu. She often came deliberately to change Miyu's sheets and bring breakfast so she could talk to the Lady. Chisato knew Miyu better than most of the other slaves and she knew this would be one conversation that would end with amusing results. Chisato's half-sister wouldn't miss this conversation for the world but due to her sister's... profession, she was not allowed within the palace grounds so Chisato would have to fill her in later. She held her breath as Lord Ohnishi ceased to talk of business and the subject turned to his son.
"Shintaro is such a talented boy. He is first in all his subjects and as you know, he will be inheriting my estate. I have a friend whose son also inherited his estate, and the son extended the state to almost double its size and is now one of the wealthiest landowners known to date. He could not have done it, however, without the undying support of his wife."
Miyu slammed her cup of tea down on the table with such force a small crack appeared. From behind the pillar, Chisato winced. 'Oh', she thought. 'Bad move.' She saw Lord Yamano throw Miyu a stern glance. Miyu looked ahead of her, expressionless. Ohnishi continued unperturbed.
"I wish for Shintaro to make me as proud as that boy made his father proud. However, no man can face things alone. Then Lord Yamano came up with the perfect suggestion." He turned to Miyu's father who was thinking fast on how to put this statement.
"Miyu, you know I care for your well-being," Lord Yamano hazarded.
"Yes, father," his daughter replied coldly. Chisato could see the conversation was heading straight for disaster at top speeds.
"The Ohnishi estates are well established and I want you to live in a stable atmosphere. It is in your best interests that I have decided to marry you to Shintaro Ohnishi."
Chisato saw Miyu gripping her cup of tea very firmly, her knuckles white. She could almost feel the heat Miyu was giving off as her anger rose. After an uncomfortable pause Miyu spoke with such an icy tone it could have formed icicles on her father's nose.
"Father, this is an interesting proposition. May I be excused so I can consider it?" Lord Ohnishi coughed. There was no considering to be done. The girl would be married to his son without question. Her father however did not complain. In his opinion, the fact that Miyu had not broken any furniture or stormed was a sign that it was going reasonably well. He let her leave the room. The fact that Miyu's father thought his daughter had taken the news well just proved how little he knew her.
Chisato watched her mistress stalk out of the room and bit her lip, fearing the worst. Then she too exited without a word.
* * *
The day was hot and the last thing that any soul wanted to do was guard the gates to the Yamano Palace. Larva yawned and leant against the wall, wishing he didn't have to wear these damn black robes and watched as people wandered aimlessly by. He had once thought that guarding a palace would be in some way entertaining but no one ever attempted to break in anymore. There was, of course, that little rogue thief that could slip past any defences, The Shadow Thief, who kept everyone on their toes but even the notorious Shadow thief seemed to have taken a break from robbing the palace from time to time.
Larva disliked having to stand outside the gates where he was vulnerable, not to gangsters or troublemakers, but women. Gangs of them would often crowd round the gates giggling and trying to force Larva to give them his address. Larva had been cursed with the face and body of an angel, with light blue hair and piercing red eyes, he could have any woman he wanted, but Larva did not crave women like his two brothers. All he wanted nowadays was peace and food on his table.
The city was generally filled with poverty. You got the occasional wealthy merchant but overall real money was hard to come by. Larva and his brothers both knew how to wield swords so they searched for the active jobs that required such an art as fencing. The position as guard for a wealthy estate owner had seemed like a find but now Larva longed to travel away from the confines of the city.
"Larva!" Larva turned as one of his brothers, Spartoi, approached. "Falling asleep so early in the afternoon?" he asked mildly. "The warden would have your head."
"I was on night watch," Larva replied defensively. "It was about as uneventful as day watch. Spartoi, aren't you meant to be guarding the east wall?"
"As you said," Spartoi shrugged. "Nothing's happening. Like their gonna miss me. I wanted to talk to you, see if you're still hanging in there. See if the women hadn't mauled you to death."
"I can stand on my own two feet, thank you, Spartoi," Larva sighed looking away.
The two brothers stood in silence, huffing slightly from the unbearable heat. They felt bad to admit it but they wished someone would just rob the palace so they could have something to arrest. The silence was broken by a familiar shout. They turned to see Lemures jogging towards them with an irritated expression.
"Oi! Spartoi!" he snapped as he skidded to a halt. "While you were slacking off someone was seen slipping over the east wall and running off into the city!"
"What?!" shouted Larva and Spartoi in unison.
"You heard me," Lemures snarled. "Spartoi, I'd get over there before the captain catches you."
Spartoi swore and galloped off towards the east wall. Lemures raised his eyebrows at Larva's tired expression.
"Hanging in there, bro?" Larva nodded feverishly. Lemures threw an arm round his shoulders and grinned. "Good isn't it? Something's finally happened and Spartoi's gonna be whipped. The place is livening up a bit, eh?" Larva laughed monotonously. Lemures rolled his eyes and glanced at the large clock tower that could be seen over the rooftops. "Five minutes until lunch break, unless we have to stay behind to watch Spartoi getting flogged. Gee, I wonder who made a break for it over the palace walls."
* * *
Ten minutes before...
"Miyu!" Miyu had been running flat out through the palace, ignoring the stares of the servants and straight down the marble steps into the garden. "Miyu!" Miyu turned to see who was calling her. Chisato huffed and puffed as she drew to a halt before her mistress.
"Miyu, please don't go."
Miyu raised her eyebrows. "Are my plans that transparent to you, Chisato?" Chisato nodded sadly. "I'm sorry, Chisato-chan. I must go. I cannot stay here, I cannot breathe here. I need to get out and taste the life of someone who's... free."
"I understand, miss," Chisato sniffed. "And I won't stop you, but I will try to ensure you are alright once you get out." Chisato handed Miyu a piece of paper. "Those are instructions on how to get to the Moonwhistle Inn. It's where my half-sister works part-time. Tell her that Chisato says look after Miyu." Miyu smiled and hugged Chisato.
"I don't need a bodyguard," she laughed.
"Oh, but you do," Chisato said earnestly. Miyu was naïve when it came to the streets of the outside world. "The streets are teaming with gangsters and thieves-"
"Like your sister."
"Not as bad as her, but yes! And your disappearance won't go unnoticed for long. Your father will send out guards and my sister can help you get out the city. Miyu, you must leave the city. You will be found if you stay here."
"Iktyo," Miyu murmured. "It's a village in the mountains where my half- sister Yui lives. I'm sure they would take me in."
"Go there," said Chisato trying to stifle a small sob. "Goodbye, Miyu-chan. I will think of you always." Chisato sniffed and tried to pull herself together and be more helpful. "Use the east wall. The guard is always abandoning his post so you can escape there."
They hugged each other tightly and then Miyu turned away and began to run towards the east wall, away from her imprisonment. She had pondered how to climb a wall but she supposed that it could be that difficult. She could climb a tree and then take it from there. She soon found a cherry blossom tree near the wall and after three attempts of scrabbling desperately at the branches, Miyu managed to hoist herself onto the wall. Chisato had been correct. The guard had abandoned his post so Miyu slipped down and landed cat-footed onto the empty street. She rose quickly and crept away into the streets, following the instructions Chisato had given her. She didn't notice one of the guards hurrying away round the corner to his captain to report her escape from the palace.
* * *
Larva now stood uncomfortably in the office of the chief warden with Spartoi and Lemures either side of him. The office was dark except for a thin stream of light coming from the blinds behind the desk. The warden was scanning a few scrolls but eventually put them down and glanced up at the three brothers. His eyes were flaming, they seemed to glow in the darkness of his office.
"Spartoi," the warden barked gruffly. Spartoi straightened his back and waited for his punishment to fall with a grim expression. "You were absent at the east gate at the time of the escape. I am told this isn't the first time you've slipped away." Spartoi looked at his feet in guilt. "In your absence a certain figure escaped over the east wall, spotted by one our guards who happened to be passing. You will not let this happen again or I will be forced to dismiss you. You will now guard the west gate with your brother Lemures. Oh, and Lemures?" Lemures looked up quickly. "If you let Spartoi put one toe out of line I will see you are demoted to guarding the kitchen entrance out back." Lemures nodded hurriedly at the threat. If guarding the west wall was dull, it was torture to think how uneventful guarding the kitchen entrance would be. "Now," the warden sighed now that the disciplining had finished. "We have found that the person who hijacked it over the wall was none other than his Lordship's daughter, Lady Miyu Yamano."
Larva stared. The Lady Yamano who was never seen by the public except to the servants and those who visited her. What possessed a girl of such class to do such a foolish thing? Many times had the guards tried to catch glances of the legendary daughter but the servants always kept her from public view.
"She needs to be retrieved," the warden continued in a manner-of-fact tone. "Spartoi, you are unreliable and Lemures, it is your job to guard Spartoi. I would have sent all three of you to retrieve her seeing as you are my best guards but in light of these most recent events, I will only be sending Larva." Lemures then voiced what Larva had been thinking.
"Sir, no guard has ever seen the daughter of Lord Yamano. How will Larva be able to find someone he's never seen?"
The warden suddenly glanced about to make sure no one was listening. He shut the blinds in the window behind him and lit a small oil lamp on his desk. "This is classified information," he grunted, opening a drawer in his desk and taking out a slip of paper. "None of you will ever mention seeing this." He slid the paper across the desk and the three brothers bent closer to inspect it. It was a picture of a pretty girl wearing another of those exquisite kimonos with her dark brown hair tied up in a red ribbon. The painter seemed to have been unsure what colour to do her eyes and had settled on a deep gold. There was an inner beauty Larva had never seen in other women. "That," said the warden suddenly making the brothers jump, "is Miyu Yamano. Larva, I suggest you find her quickly before the Lord gets impatient and has our heads. He does not like failure, so those who cannot complete the given task, end up with their heads in a basket. That will be the fate of you and your brothers if you fail. If you're not back in two weeks, don't come back at all." Larva picked up the picture and slipped it into the dark recesses of his robe.
He felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to see Lemures with a pale expression. "Come back quick, bro," he said. "Don't get killed and/or kidnapped, alright?"
"Yeah," Larva's throat was dry. He gripped his sword under his robe and then turned to the door. The lives of his brothers were in his hands, and he didn't feel at all comfortable about it.
"You come back in one piece, right?" he heard Spartoi's voice call.
"Yeah," he repeated gravely. He knew where he was going to start his search. Larva strode into the city, heading for the Moonwhistle Inn for a stiff drink.
* * *
The Moonwhistle Inn was busy and smoky so Miyu slipped in unnoticed. She had kept to the shadows of the city, unable to believe that she was finally free. The Inn was packed with noisy drinkers and a number of men were puffing long pipes whilst hollering for beer. Miyu crept through the mass of people to the bar. A woman with her honey hair piled onto top of her head in her mid forties was busily swerving drinks.
"Excuse me," Miyu called. "Maria!"
The woman froze, halfway through serving a jug of ale. She turned slowly and her eyes fell on the sixteen year-old girl leaning on the counter.
"Miyu?" she whispered. "H-how? How could you be here?"
"I escaped," Miyu replied in a low voice. "I came here to see Satsu."
"Come round to the back of the bar," hissed Maria gesturing to a little gate in the far corner that was the entrance to the realm behind the counter. As Miyu entered she was instantly embraced by the stench of lavender oil and liqueur as Maria threw her arms round her. She snapped her fingers and a boy of fifteen hurried over and took over Maria's job as bartender. Maria then led Miyu upstairs to one of the vacant rooms and made up a bed for her.
As Maria adjusted the pillow and sheets she asked Miyu a few questions just so she fully understood the situation. Eventually she summarised.
"So, you ran away because your father was about to marry you off to Lord Ohnishi's son. My daughter, Chisato told you to come here so that my other daughter, Satsu could assist you on a journey. Miyu, I understand you need to get out of the city but a full walking journey is just too dangerous, whether you have Satsu's help or not. The paths are long and flanked with warriors and highwaymen who have mastered a variety of dark arts. You need money so that you can get a cart up to Iktyo. It's the only way. I would pay for it if I could spare the money, but I have an idea. Do you have any particular performing talent?"
Miyu thought hard. One idea surfaced to mind. "I can play the flute."
"Excellent. Satsu can dance so if you perform this evening with my daughter and raise enough money then I'll supply you from your earnings." The offer seemed fair so Miyu nodded. At that moment there was a heavy knock on the door. Maria rose quickly and Miyu could see her hands balled into fists. Maria was famous for her punches that could knock men twice her height and weight into orbit. She flung the door open.
"Hey," said a girl. "Mum, you're needed downstairs-" The girl stared at Miyu. "Miyu?"
"Greetings, Satsu," Miyu smiled as Chisato's sister stared at her in disbelief. Satsu couldn't look less like Chisato if she tried. Her skin was ever so slightly tanned and though she was a year older than Chisato, she was at least a foot shorter. Miyu had been told that there was no such thing as actual black hair; there was always a hint of brown in it somewhere. One glance at Satsu's locks could make you instantly discard that theory without question. Her flowing ebony hair was tied back with some beaded ribbon except two stands that had been plaited and tucked behind her ears.
"Miyu, how?" Satsu started.
"I'll explain," Maria huffed, letting her fists drop. "The girl needs her rest. She'll be performing tonight."
"Eh?" Satsu now looked completely miffed.
"I'll tell you about downstairs," Maria sighed and left the room, followed by an inquisitive Satsu.
Miyu laughed to herself and then lay back on the bed. Three springs had gone in the mattress, the sheets weren't ironed and the ceiling was full of cracks, but Miyu had never felt so contented in all her life. What would she do when she reached Iktyo? She wouldn't marry for a start. Miyu was sick to the teeth of marriage. The thought of work excited her and she looked forward to the evening. Maybe Satsu would teach her to fence and she could become a warrior. No, that thought was a little exaggerated. A painter? Miyu enjoyed painting. Maybe she would sell her pictures to smiling customers, or maybe... she fell asleep with the joyful thoughts still fresh in her mind.
* * *
Larva entered the smoky bar and elbowed his way over to the bar, where he fell onto a barstool and leant his head in one hand. Maria sauntered over with a mug of ale in one hand and eyed the miserable expression on the handsome guard's face.
"Oh, Larva," she snapped. "You should really lighten up. If the rain clouds over your head get any worse, we'll be having an early monsoon season." She stuck a finger under his chin and lifted it. "Buck up. One beer?" Larva nodded dolefully. He liked Maria. She was the one woman who didn't spend half her time fantasising about what she would do if she caught Larva alone in a room. Maria had been married and divorced, twice. She had two daughters, one who was a maid at the palace and one who was rarely mentioned. Maria preferred knocking men out to kissing them so Larva often talked to her from the safety of being the other side of the bar counter. A girl with her dark hair pulled back in a ribbon crashed the beer on the counter without even glancing at Larva and continued to interrogate Maria.
"For god's sake, girl," Maria shouted. "We'll talk about it later. Not here," she added between clenched teeth. The girl shrugged and stalked off.
"New waitress?" Larva commented as the girl served five mugs of ale to a group of rowdy men squashed on one table and deeply engrossed in a game of poker. "Don't be offended, Maria, but that girl has guts to serve drinks in here."
"Satsu is used to this environment," Maria replied stiffly. She paused for a moment and then sighed, "You might as well know, she is my daughter." She saw Larva stare from the thin dark haired girl to the chunky blonde woman before him ands back again. "Second husband," she explained indignantly. "His name was Rick, only other man who got a child out of me apart from Chisato's father. Satsu takes after him completely. She works here seeing as no other business will let her in. She wanted to be mechanic but they didn't except women. Satsu plainly refused to join the dressmaker's guild and she even took a shot at being a guard, and was rejected. She now works here part-time but keeps to herself. Hey, Larva." Larva saw Maria's eyes suddenly twinkle. "Stick around. Tonight we've got a new girl playing the flute whilst my daughter dances. It will be fun. Maybe you can get to know Satsu. Not like that!" she laughed when she saw Larva's expression. "Satsu's like me, she rejects men. She would rather be one just so she could use her sword skills in her job."
"I'll consider it," Larva said slowly. Maria smiled and turned back to serving the other customers. Larva was a good soul, but a lonely one. She had no intent on selling her daughter to Larva, but quite frankly, the more people he could talk to, the better.
* * *
Miyu had been dreaming. She could remember what had happened but it had been a good dream for sure because when a sharp knocking on her door awaked her, she opened her eyes and smiled at the joy she was feeling. The knocking came again.
"Miyu! It's Satsu! Your performance will be fifteen minutes. Let me in!"
Miyu hastily rose from her bed and unlocked the door as Satsu stumbled into the room. She was holding a large wicker box and she hurried across the floorboards and placed it on her dressing table.
"Shut the door and lock it," she ordered. Miyu was not used to taking commands and if anyone else had ordered her in such a sharp tone she would have scowled and retorted in an angry voice, but seeing as it was Satsu made it a different matter. She bolted the door and rushed over to see what mysterious object Satsu had brought upstairs.
Satsu lifted the lid of the box and Miyu stared as her eyes met millions of ribbons, oils, lotions and many other accessories. She raised an eyebrow and gave Satsu a sideways glance.
"Chisato said you hated makeup," she commented in an offhand tone.
"I do," Satsu replied quickly. "But this isn't counted as makeup. This more of a disguise. I was thinking ahead. You need to in my profession." Miyu laughed darkly.
"Satsu, do you think you're going to get away with being a thief forever?" she asked, amused.
"Yes," Satsu said, expressionless. Miyu shrugged as Satsu plunged her hand into the sea of bottles and ribbons and pulled out a pot of dark powder. She took a brush and started to fleck the powder over Miyu's face, covering up her pale skin and making her look tanned. She then pulled out other dark lotions and paints, darkening Miyu's brown hair and her eyelashes and eyebrows. Satsu paused for a moment, stroking Miyu's long silky hair deciding whether to cut it short or not. She decided against it, it was too much hair to go to waste. Instead she plaited Miyu's hair but did leave a little which she pulled forwards and cut it, giving her a fringe. She gave Miyu a simple short white kimono, tied back with a red obi. When Satsu had finished Miyu looked slightly foreign. She took a mirror and Miyu eyed herself critically. Then she laughed. Her stomach heaved and she doubled over between chuckles.
"It's not me," she sniggered. "Satsu, you're a genius!"
"Thank you," Satsu bowed curtly then glanced at the clock on the wall. "We have three minutes so I'll be brief. Don't tire yourself out on stage, you know, get hot and sticky and so forth. It will make your makeup run. Secondly, Maria wants you to have this." She turned back to the box and pushed all the ribbons and bottles aside. At the bottom was a long object rolled in a satin cloth. Satsu took it out with care and unrolled it. Miyu gasped as she first laid eyes upon a beautifully carved flute, painted many colours. She lifted it carefully and blew a sweet note full of clarity.
"Satsu," she whispered. "It's beautiful."
"Aw, it's nothing. If you don't have it then it will just rot in our cupboard."
"I can keep it?"
"Sure! We ain't giving it to no one else and those things don't sell for decent money in the market anymore." Satsu paused. "Look after it. It's old so it's also precious."
"I will. Satsu, will you take me to Iktyo?"
Satsu looked up and her eyes seemed to flicker. Miyu knew that it would be a struggle for Satsu to leave the city, she had spent so long getting to know every building, roof and alley but deep down, Satsu needed a new start. She took Miyu's hands.
"For you Miyu, of course." Miyu smiled. Satsu shook herself. "Come, we are expected down stairs. Mother has made a makeshift stage so you'll be able to see everyone. Remember, if you see any guards, finish the song and then exit the stage and go straight to Maria. Your excuse is you need to wet your whistle." Miyu gave her an odd look. Living in the confines of the palace she had not heard many expressions. "Er, you need a drink," Satsu explained hastily.
"Okay," Miyu nodded starting to feel uneasy. What there was a guard down there waiting for her. What if the palace had been notified of her escape and had sent someone to retrieve her, who had stopped at the Moonwhistle to 'wet his whistle' as Satsu put it. She shook the thought from her head. That was ridiculous. No one could have found her out that quickly, could they? These were just the thoughts formed from stage fright. Miyu took a deep breath, gripped the precious flute and started her descent down the rickety stairs into the crowded bar.
* * *
To Be Continued...
What do you think? Should I throw this story to the sharks or persevere? Well, I'm continuing anyway, but I'd really appreciate some reviews to know how people think I write. (Will I live to regret this?) Please review anyway. I don't mind criticism. If you spot any bits of spelling, grammar or story gone awry, mention it and I'll try to right it. I'll try...
This is a Miyu fanfic set in an alternate universe so in case you start shouting 'where's the Shinma?' I have to break it to you, there isn't any. Sorry! The story is set in old Japan mixed with other typical fantasy touches. It is, sadly, free of vampires. Sorry again, folks. Enjoy!
* * *
The general atmosphere of Lord Yamano's garden was relaxing and tranquil. The lawns were neat and the flowers colourful. The trees swayed peacefully and to garnish the ambience that the garden portrayed were the little touches such as the gold birdcage filled with many coloured birds and the fountain gushing crystal water. A girl of sixteen sat perched on the edge of the fountain staring dejectedly into its waters. She was Miyu Yamano, daughter of the great Lord Yamano. She wore a kimono so beautiful most girls would give their right hands to own but Miyu ignored the exquisite designs and soft material and gazed angrily at the marble walls that surrounded the gardens. The walls, her father had told her, were for keeping common filth and thieves out, but Miyu felt that their main purpose was for keeping her in, and she longed to go beyond the confinements of the palace. Miyu turned at the sound of footsteps.
"My lady?" It was Hisae, one of the servant girls. "Your father is demanding your presence in the tearoom."
"Hisae," Miyu sighed. Hisae was not surprised that Lady Miyu knew her name. Her father did not know that his daughter spent more time in the servant's quarters than in the palace halls, talking to each servant and asking of the outside world. Hisae pitied Miyu. The girl was, and felt it, trapped.
"Yes, my lady?"
"Tell me. Is there a duke or lord of some sort to accompany us?" Miyu saw Hisae stare uncomfortably at the ground.
"Lord Ohnishi brings his son who will be inheriting his estate and business," Hisae mumbled, not meeting her mistress' eyes.
Miyu smiled sadly and turned back to the fountain, twining her brown hair between her fingers. So her father would marry her off, or was this just another business deal? Miyu dreaded the day she would become someone's sweetheart, and though she looked so dignified and calm about that matter, secretly she wanted to throw herself on the ground and beat her fist in angry hysterics.
"Hisae," she said quietly. "Please leave. Inform father I will be there shortly."
Hisae nodded and retreated back a few steps. Her ears had not missed the slight tremor in Lady Miyu's voice. She knew that no one longed as much as Lady Miyu for freedom. She paused for a moment, conflicting whether to tell her ladyship of her father's intentions. She decided against it. Miyu seemed a calm person, but deep down she would not hesitate to do something drastic. Hisae turned and hurried up the steps back into the palace.
Miyu watched Hisae leave and then she also rose and headed for the tearoom with a feeling of impending doom.
* * *
The tearoom was one of the most elegant rooms in the palace. Many palaces were prided for their banquet rooms or their entrance halls but Lord Yamano's palace was famous for its tearoom. It slipped slightly out of the original Japanese theme and became slightly Romanesque. There was a marble colonnade. Lord Yamano liked his marble. Rugs imported from India woven from red and gold strands lined the floors and terracotta pots containing tropical flowers were placed around the room adding a touch of nature to the environment. One long low table sat in the centre of the room, carved from mahogany. Cups of spiced herbal tea sat on the table with its owner kneeling before them.
Miyu had noticed that she had been deliberately positioned to sit near Lord Ohnishi's son, a boy of eighteen named Shintaro. Her father sat the other side of her and watched her every move. Lord Yamano knew his daughter was like a bomb ready to go off at the slightest disturbance. He would have to be eloquent and subtle when stating the plans to her without causing a fuss, which worried him for he was not renowned for being a subtle man. Miyu sipped her tea and made no attempt to start a conversation. Lord Ohnishi was currently talking about a business plan and her father was listening avidly. So far, Shintaro had remained as silent as she.
From behind one of the pillars, a red-haired servant girl watched curiously. Her name was Chisato and she had always been fond of Miyu. She often came deliberately to change Miyu's sheets and bring breakfast so she could talk to the Lady. Chisato knew Miyu better than most of the other slaves and she knew this would be one conversation that would end with amusing results. Chisato's half-sister wouldn't miss this conversation for the world but due to her sister's... profession, she was not allowed within the palace grounds so Chisato would have to fill her in later. She held her breath as Lord Ohnishi ceased to talk of business and the subject turned to his son.
"Shintaro is such a talented boy. He is first in all his subjects and as you know, he will be inheriting my estate. I have a friend whose son also inherited his estate, and the son extended the state to almost double its size and is now one of the wealthiest landowners known to date. He could not have done it, however, without the undying support of his wife."
Miyu slammed her cup of tea down on the table with such force a small crack appeared. From behind the pillar, Chisato winced. 'Oh', she thought. 'Bad move.' She saw Lord Yamano throw Miyu a stern glance. Miyu looked ahead of her, expressionless. Ohnishi continued unperturbed.
"I wish for Shintaro to make me as proud as that boy made his father proud. However, no man can face things alone. Then Lord Yamano came up with the perfect suggestion." He turned to Miyu's father who was thinking fast on how to put this statement.
"Miyu, you know I care for your well-being," Lord Yamano hazarded.
"Yes, father," his daughter replied coldly. Chisato could see the conversation was heading straight for disaster at top speeds.
"The Ohnishi estates are well established and I want you to live in a stable atmosphere. It is in your best interests that I have decided to marry you to Shintaro Ohnishi."
Chisato saw Miyu gripping her cup of tea very firmly, her knuckles white. She could almost feel the heat Miyu was giving off as her anger rose. After an uncomfortable pause Miyu spoke with such an icy tone it could have formed icicles on her father's nose.
"Father, this is an interesting proposition. May I be excused so I can consider it?" Lord Ohnishi coughed. There was no considering to be done. The girl would be married to his son without question. Her father however did not complain. In his opinion, the fact that Miyu had not broken any furniture or stormed was a sign that it was going reasonably well. He let her leave the room. The fact that Miyu's father thought his daughter had taken the news well just proved how little he knew her.
Chisato watched her mistress stalk out of the room and bit her lip, fearing the worst. Then she too exited without a word.
* * *
The day was hot and the last thing that any soul wanted to do was guard the gates to the Yamano Palace. Larva yawned and leant against the wall, wishing he didn't have to wear these damn black robes and watched as people wandered aimlessly by. He had once thought that guarding a palace would be in some way entertaining but no one ever attempted to break in anymore. There was, of course, that little rogue thief that could slip past any defences, The Shadow Thief, who kept everyone on their toes but even the notorious Shadow thief seemed to have taken a break from robbing the palace from time to time.
Larva disliked having to stand outside the gates where he was vulnerable, not to gangsters or troublemakers, but women. Gangs of them would often crowd round the gates giggling and trying to force Larva to give them his address. Larva had been cursed with the face and body of an angel, with light blue hair and piercing red eyes, he could have any woman he wanted, but Larva did not crave women like his two brothers. All he wanted nowadays was peace and food on his table.
The city was generally filled with poverty. You got the occasional wealthy merchant but overall real money was hard to come by. Larva and his brothers both knew how to wield swords so they searched for the active jobs that required such an art as fencing. The position as guard for a wealthy estate owner had seemed like a find but now Larva longed to travel away from the confines of the city.
"Larva!" Larva turned as one of his brothers, Spartoi, approached. "Falling asleep so early in the afternoon?" he asked mildly. "The warden would have your head."
"I was on night watch," Larva replied defensively. "It was about as uneventful as day watch. Spartoi, aren't you meant to be guarding the east wall?"
"As you said," Spartoi shrugged. "Nothing's happening. Like their gonna miss me. I wanted to talk to you, see if you're still hanging in there. See if the women hadn't mauled you to death."
"I can stand on my own two feet, thank you, Spartoi," Larva sighed looking away.
The two brothers stood in silence, huffing slightly from the unbearable heat. They felt bad to admit it but they wished someone would just rob the palace so they could have something to arrest. The silence was broken by a familiar shout. They turned to see Lemures jogging towards them with an irritated expression.
"Oi! Spartoi!" he snapped as he skidded to a halt. "While you were slacking off someone was seen slipping over the east wall and running off into the city!"
"What?!" shouted Larva and Spartoi in unison.
"You heard me," Lemures snarled. "Spartoi, I'd get over there before the captain catches you."
Spartoi swore and galloped off towards the east wall. Lemures raised his eyebrows at Larva's tired expression.
"Hanging in there, bro?" Larva nodded feverishly. Lemures threw an arm round his shoulders and grinned. "Good isn't it? Something's finally happened and Spartoi's gonna be whipped. The place is livening up a bit, eh?" Larva laughed monotonously. Lemures rolled his eyes and glanced at the large clock tower that could be seen over the rooftops. "Five minutes until lunch break, unless we have to stay behind to watch Spartoi getting flogged. Gee, I wonder who made a break for it over the palace walls."
* * *
Ten minutes before...
"Miyu!" Miyu had been running flat out through the palace, ignoring the stares of the servants and straight down the marble steps into the garden. "Miyu!" Miyu turned to see who was calling her. Chisato huffed and puffed as she drew to a halt before her mistress.
"Miyu, please don't go."
Miyu raised her eyebrows. "Are my plans that transparent to you, Chisato?" Chisato nodded sadly. "I'm sorry, Chisato-chan. I must go. I cannot stay here, I cannot breathe here. I need to get out and taste the life of someone who's... free."
"I understand, miss," Chisato sniffed. "And I won't stop you, but I will try to ensure you are alright once you get out." Chisato handed Miyu a piece of paper. "Those are instructions on how to get to the Moonwhistle Inn. It's where my half-sister works part-time. Tell her that Chisato says look after Miyu." Miyu smiled and hugged Chisato.
"I don't need a bodyguard," she laughed.
"Oh, but you do," Chisato said earnestly. Miyu was naïve when it came to the streets of the outside world. "The streets are teaming with gangsters and thieves-"
"Like your sister."
"Not as bad as her, but yes! And your disappearance won't go unnoticed for long. Your father will send out guards and my sister can help you get out the city. Miyu, you must leave the city. You will be found if you stay here."
"Iktyo," Miyu murmured. "It's a village in the mountains where my half- sister Yui lives. I'm sure they would take me in."
"Go there," said Chisato trying to stifle a small sob. "Goodbye, Miyu-chan. I will think of you always." Chisato sniffed and tried to pull herself together and be more helpful. "Use the east wall. The guard is always abandoning his post so you can escape there."
They hugged each other tightly and then Miyu turned away and began to run towards the east wall, away from her imprisonment. She had pondered how to climb a wall but she supposed that it could be that difficult. She could climb a tree and then take it from there. She soon found a cherry blossom tree near the wall and after three attempts of scrabbling desperately at the branches, Miyu managed to hoist herself onto the wall. Chisato had been correct. The guard had abandoned his post so Miyu slipped down and landed cat-footed onto the empty street. She rose quickly and crept away into the streets, following the instructions Chisato had given her. She didn't notice one of the guards hurrying away round the corner to his captain to report her escape from the palace.
* * *
Larva now stood uncomfortably in the office of the chief warden with Spartoi and Lemures either side of him. The office was dark except for a thin stream of light coming from the blinds behind the desk. The warden was scanning a few scrolls but eventually put them down and glanced up at the three brothers. His eyes were flaming, they seemed to glow in the darkness of his office.
"Spartoi," the warden barked gruffly. Spartoi straightened his back and waited for his punishment to fall with a grim expression. "You were absent at the east gate at the time of the escape. I am told this isn't the first time you've slipped away." Spartoi looked at his feet in guilt. "In your absence a certain figure escaped over the east wall, spotted by one our guards who happened to be passing. You will not let this happen again or I will be forced to dismiss you. You will now guard the west gate with your brother Lemures. Oh, and Lemures?" Lemures looked up quickly. "If you let Spartoi put one toe out of line I will see you are demoted to guarding the kitchen entrance out back." Lemures nodded hurriedly at the threat. If guarding the west wall was dull, it was torture to think how uneventful guarding the kitchen entrance would be. "Now," the warden sighed now that the disciplining had finished. "We have found that the person who hijacked it over the wall was none other than his Lordship's daughter, Lady Miyu Yamano."
Larva stared. The Lady Yamano who was never seen by the public except to the servants and those who visited her. What possessed a girl of such class to do such a foolish thing? Many times had the guards tried to catch glances of the legendary daughter but the servants always kept her from public view.
"She needs to be retrieved," the warden continued in a manner-of-fact tone. "Spartoi, you are unreliable and Lemures, it is your job to guard Spartoi. I would have sent all three of you to retrieve her seeing as you are my best guards but in light of these most recent events, I will only be sending Larva." Lemures then voiced what Larva had been thinking.
"Sir, no guard has ever seen the daughter of Lord Yamano. How will Larva be able to find someone he's never seen?"
The warden suddenly glanced about to make sure no one was listening. He shut the blinds in the window behind him and lit a small oil lamp on his desk. "This is classified information," he grunted, opening a drawer in his desk and taking out a slip of paper. "None of you will ever mention seeing this." He slid the paper across the desk and the three brothers bent closer to inspect it. It was a picture of a pretty girl wearing another of those exquisite kimonos with her dark brown hair tied up in a red ribbon. The painter seemed to have been unsure what colour to do her eyes and had settled on a deep gold. There was an inner beauty Larva had never seen in other women. "That," said the warden suddenly making the brothers jump, "is Miyu Yamano. Larva, I suggest you find her quickly before the Lord gets impatient and has our heads. He does not like failure, so those who cannot complete the given task, end up with their heads in a basket. That will be the fate of you and your brothers if you fail. If you're not back in two weeks, don't come back at all." Larva picked up the picture and slipped it into the dark recesses of his robe.
He felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to see Lemures with a pale expression. "Come back quick, bro," he said. "Don't get killed and/or kidnapped, alright?"
"Yeah," Larva's throat was dry. He gripped his sword under his robe and then turned to the door. The lives of his brothers were in his hands, and he didn't feel at all comfortable about it.
"You come back in one piece, right?" he heard Spartoi's voice call.
"Yeah," he repeated gravely. He knew where he was going to start his search. Larva strode into the city, heading for the Moonwhistle Inn for a stiff drink.
* * *
The Moonwhistle Inn was busy and smoky so Miyu slipped in unnoticed. She had kept to the shadows of the city, unable to believe that she was finally free. The Inn was packed with noisy drinkers and a number of men were puffing long pipes whilst hollering for beer. Miyu crept through the mass of people to the bar. A woman with her honey hair piled onto top of her head in her mid forties was busily swerving drinks.
"Excuse me," Miyu called. "Maria!"
The woman froze, halfway through serving a jug of ale. She turned slowly and her eyes fell on the sixteen year-old girl leaning on the counter.
"Miyu?" she whispered. "H-how? How could you be here?"
"I escaped," Miyu replied in a low voice. "I came here to see Satsu."
"Come round to the back of the bar," hissed Maria gesturing to a little gate in the far corner that was the entrance to the realm behind the counter. As Miyu entered she was instantly embraced by the stench of lavender oil and liqueur as Maria threw her arms round her. She snapped her fingers and a boy of fifteen hurried over and took over Maria's job as bartender. Maria then led Miyu upstairs to one of the vacant rooms and made up a bed for her.
As Maria adjusted the pillow and sheets she asked Miyu a few questions just so she fully understood the situation. Eventually she summarised.
"So, you ran away because your father was about to marry you off to Lord Ohnishi's son. My daughter, Chisato told you to come here so that my other daughter, Satsu could assist you on a journey. Miyu, I understand you need to get out of the city but a full walking journey is just too dangerous, whether you have Satsu's help or not. The paths are long and flanked with warriors and highwaymen who have mastered a variety of dark arts. You need money so that you can get a cart up to Iktyo. It's the only way. I would pay for it if I could spare the money, but I have an idea. Do you have any particular performing talent?"
Miyu thought hard. One idea surfaced to mind. "I can play the flute."
"Excellent. Satsu can dance so if you perform this evening with my daughter and raise enough money then I'll supply you from your earnings." The offer seemed fair so Miyu nodded. At that moment there was a heavy knock on the door. Maria rose quickly and Miyu could see her hands balled into fists. Maria was famous for her punches that could knock men twice her height and weight into orbit. She flung the door open.
"Hey," said a girl. "Mum, you're needed downstairs-" The girl stared at Miyu. "Miyu?"
"Greetings, Satsu," Miyu smiled as Chisato's sister stared at her in disbelief. Satsu couldn't look less like Chisato if she tried. Her skin was ever so slightly tanned and though she was a year older than Chisato, she was at least a foot shorter. Miyu had been told that there was no such thing as actual black hair; there was always a hint of brown in it somewhere. One glance at Satsu's locks could make you instantly discard that theory without question. Her flowing ebony hair was tied back with some beaded ribbon except two stands that had been plaited and tucked behind her ears.
"Miyu, how?" Satsu started.
"I'll explain," Maria huffed, letting her fists drop. "The girl needs her rest. She'll be performing tonight."
"Eh?" Satsu now looked completely miffed.
"I'll tell you about downstairs," Maria sighed and left the room, followed by an inquisitive Satsu.
Miyu laughed to herself and then lay back on the bed. Three springs had gone in the mattress, the sheets weren't ironed and the ceiling was full of cracks, but Miyu had never felt so contented in all her life. What would she do when she reached Iktyo? She wouldn't marry for a start. Miyu was sick to the teeth of marriage. The thought of work excited her and she looked forward to the evening. Maybe Satsu would teach her to fence and she could become a warrior. No, that thought was a little exaggerated. A painter? Miyu enjoyed painting. Maybe she would sell her pictures to smiling customers, or maybe... she fell asleep with the joyful thoughts still fresh in her mind.
* * *
Larva entered the smoky bar and elbowed his way over to the bar, where he fell onto a barstool and leant his head in one hand. Maria sauntered over with a mug of ale in one hand and eyed the miserable expression on the handsome guard's face.
"Oh, Larva," she snapped. "You should really lighten up. If the rain clouds over your head get any worse, we'll be having an early monsoon season." She stuck a finger under his chin and lifted it. "Buck up. One beer?" Larva nodded dolefully. He liked Maria. She was the one woman who didn't spend half her time fantasising about what she would do if she caught Larva alone in a room. Maria had been married and divorced, twice. She had two daughters, one who was a maid at the palace and one who was rarely mentioned. Maria preferred knocking men out to kissing them so Larva often talked to her from the safety of being the other side of the bar counter. A girl with her dark hair pulled back in a ribbon crashed the beer on the counter without even glancing at Larva and continued to interrogate Maria.
"For god's sake, girl," Maria shouted. "We'll talk about it later. Not here," she added between clenched teeth. The girl shrugged and stalked off.
"New waitress?" Larva commented as the girl served five mugs of ale to a group of rowdy men squashed on one table and deeply engrossed in a game of poker. "Don't be offended, Maria, but that girl has guts to serve drinks in here."
"Satsu is used to this environment," Maria replied stiffly. She paused for a moment and then sighed, "You might as well know, she is my daughter." She saw Larva stare from the thin dark haired girl to the chunky blonde woman before him ands back again. "Second husband," she explained indignantly. "His name was Rick, only other man who got a child out of me apart from Chisato's father. Satsu takes after him completely. She works here seeing as no other business will let her in. She wanted to be mechanic but they didn't except women. Satsu plainly refused to join the dressmaker's guild and she even took a shot at being a guard, and was rejected. She now works here part-time but keeps to herself. Hey, Larva." Larva saw Maria's eyes suddenly twinkle. "Stick around. Tonight we've got a new girl playing the flute whilst my daughter dances. It will be fun. Maybe you can get to know Satsu. Not like that!" she laughed when she saw Larva's expression. "Satsu's like me, she rejects men. She would rather be one just so she could use her sword skills in her job."
"I'll consider it," Larva said slowly. Maria smiled and turned back to serving the other customers. Larva was a good soul, but a lonely one. She had no intent on selling her daughter to Larva, but quite frankly, the more people he could talk to, the better.
* * *
Miyu had been dreaming. She could remember what had happened but it had been a good dream for sure because when a sharp knocking on her door awaked her, she opened her eyes and smiled at the joy she was feeling. The knocking came again.
"Miyu! It's Satsu! Your performance will be fifteen minutes. Let me in!"
Miyu hastily rose from her bed and unlocked the door as Satsu stumbled into the room. She was holding a large wicker box and she hurried across the floorboards and placed it on her dressing table.
"Shut the door and lock it," she ordered. Miyu was not used to taking commands and if anyone else had ordered her in such a sharp tone she would have scowled and retorted in an angry voice, but seeing as it was Satsu made it a different matter. She bolted the door and rushed over to see what mysterious object Satsu had brought upstairs.
Satsu lifted the lid of the box and Miyu stared as her eyes met millions of ribbons, oils, lotions and many other accessories. She raised an eyebrow and gave Satsu a sideways glance.
"Chisato said you hated makeup," she commented in an offhand tone.
"I do," Satsu replied quickly. "But this isn't counted as makeup. This more of a disguise. I was thinking ahead. You need to in my profession." Miyu laughed darkly.
"Satsu, do you think you're going to get away with being a thief forever?" she asked, amused.
"Yes," Satsu said, expressionless. Miyu shrugged as Satsu plunged her hand into the sea of bottles and ribbons and pulled out a pot of dark powder. She took a brush and started to fleck the powder over Miyu's face, covering up her pale skin and making her look tanned. She then pulled out other dark lotions and paints, darkening Miyu's brown hair and her eyelashes and eyebrows. Satsu paused for a moment, stroking Miyu's long silky hair deciding whether to cut it short or not. She decided against it, it was too much hair to go to waste. Instead she plaited Miyu's hair but did leave a little which she pulled forwards and cut it, giving her a fringe. She gave Miyu a simple short white kimono, tied back with a red obi. When Satsu had finished Miyu looked slightly foreign. She took a mirror and Miyu eyed herself critically. Then she laughed. Her stomach heaved and she doubled over between chuckles.
"It's not me," she sniggered. "Satsu, you're a genius!"
"Thank you," Satsu bowed curtly then glanced at the clock on the wall. "We have three minutes so I'll be brief. Don't tire yourself out on stage, you know, get hot and sticky and so forth. It will make your makeup run. Secondly, Maria wants you to have this." She turned back to the box and pushed all the ribbons and bottles aside. At the bottom was a long object rolled in a satin cloth. Satsu took it out with care and unrolled it. Miyu gasped as she first laid eyes upon a beautifully carved flute, painted many colours. She lifted it carefully and blew a sweet note full of clarity.
"Satsu," she whispered. "It's beautiful."
"Aw, it's nothing. If you don't have it then it will just rot in our cupboard."
"I can keep it?"
"Sure! We ain't giving it to no one else and those things don't sell for decent money in the market anymore." Satsu paused. "Look after it. It's old so it's also precious."
"I will. Satsu, will you take me to Iktyo?"
Satsu looked up and her eyes seemed to flicker. Miyu knew that it would be a struggle for Satsu to leave the city, she had spent so long getting to know every building, roof and alley but deep down, Satsu needed a new start. She took Miyu's hands.
"For you Miyu, of course." Miyu smiled. Satsu shook herself. "Come, we are expected down stairs. Mother has made a makeshift stage so you'll be able to see everyone. Remember, if you see any guards, finish the song and then exit the stage and go straight to Maria. Your excuse is you need to wet your whistle." Miyu gave her an odd look. Living in the confines of the palace she had not heard many expressions. "Er, you need a drink," Satsu explained hastily.
"Okay," Miyu nodded starting to feel uneasy. What there was a guard down there waiting for her. What if the palace had been notified of her escape and had sent someone to retrieve her, who had stopped at the Moonwhistle to 'wet his whistle' as Satsu put it. She shook the thought from her head. That was ridiculous. No one could have found her out that quickly, could they? These were just the thoughts formed from stage fright. Miyu took a deep breath, gripped the precious flute and started her descent down the rickety stairs into the crowded bar.
* * *
To Be Continued...
What do you think? Should I throw this story to the sharks or persevere? Well, I'm continuing anyway, but I'd really appreciate some reviews to know how people think I write. (Will I live to regret this?) Please review anyway. I don't mind criticism. If you spot any bits of spelling, grammar or story gone awry, mention it and I'll try to right it. I'll try...