As I knelt, lost in my grief, I felt magic at work. It was sufficient to snap me out of my self-pity, and I looked around. Then, it occurred to me that the amulet I had recovered from the apartment was glowing softly.
After a moment, I saw feet, clothed in the fashion of my family's time, slowly appear in front of me. Looking up, I was shocked to see my grandfather standing in front of me, his luminescent form slightly transparent.
He reached out his hand to me, and I cautiously took it in my own. It felt solid and real, in spite of the fact that I could see through the arm. Helping me to my feet, he smiled at me as he released me.
"Grandson, it is good to see you again." He looked beyond me and bowed to the Oni demon.
"I see that the legends are true. Not all of the Hellborne are evil. I am Ono Pahneé."
The demon bowed equally formally and introduced himself. I was standing there in some shock, bewildered as a ghost and a supernatural being exchanged pleasantries.
Looking back at me, Grandpa smiled. "Ryu, do not let this place overwhelm you. You have maintained the family honor, and it brings me great joy that you have retrieved the amulet. I have waited for you for almost three hundred years.
You do us no disservice in your grief, but we are your past. Remember us well, and live your life. Oh, and ignore the small magics between Darkmoon and the amulet. We speak sometimes.
Grant your Grandfather one last request, and bid Darkmoon to take you where you are needed.
Farewell, my boy. May your honor shine, and all your battles end well!"
With that, he was gone. I stood, shock and duty warring in my mind, then turned to consult the Oni.
"Will this path work for you?"
"What else is there, Ono Ryu? I committed to your journey when I accepted your help. Let us leave this place. It is tiresome."
Placing his hand on my shoulder, he nodded. I hesitated for a moment. I had never given the sword a request such as this. Nodding to myself, I put my faith in my ancestors, and we disappeared.