Episode 8 – Thunder and Lightning

As Mitsu wiped the back of her hand across her sweaty forehead, she was tempted to loose a groan from her lips. But she forced a smile instead for the sake of the sister she'd been helping along for the past hour. "Just a little bit further, Sumire," she attempted to encourage her, "and then we'll have walked another mile." Yet try as she might, her words had little effect – if any – on the poor girl.

"I'm sorry, sis," she shook her head miserably. "I…I can't walk anymore…" And Mitsu couldn't blame her. Their previous rest had ended four hours ago. Since then, the sun had painted streaks of gold across the darkening sky as it descended completely past the horizon. But the day's heat remained, and as she looked at the back of the one leading them, Mitsu had to wonder how far Sage would push them. In spite of his good intentions, with her and her siblings feeling the increasingly grueling strain of the distance they'd traveled, someone had to speak up.

"Sage," she called to him, causing him to stop and turn around. Doing her best to stand tall, Mitsu said through her panting, "Sage, I know you wanna help us get home ASAP, but…" She tried and failed to quench her thirst with a dry swallow. "All our energy wells have gone dry. We need to stop for the night."

Sage's eyes widened briefly upon realizing Mitsu wasn't kidding, and he ran a hand down his face as it fell ever so slightly. "You're right, Mitsu. We've gone far enough for today. Let's find a resting spot."

"Thank you!" Masaji's relieved voice echoed from the rear of the formation. "I feel like my limbs are gonna fall outta their sockets!"

After rolling her eyes at her brother's melodrama, Mitsu dipped her chin gratefully at their guide. "Really, Sage, thank you." She then asked her weary sister, "Think you can make just a few more steps, Sumire?" Sumire replied only with a shake of her head, eyes downcast as she stared at the ground. Mitsu could tell she wasn't exaggerating like Masaji. And no wonder – she's been walking on a sprained ankle all day.

Suddenly, Sage halted in front of them. "Actually, I wouldn't mind carrying her, if neither of you do."

The surprised gazes of both girls flew up to meet his sympathetic one. And yet, although his offer was unexpected, Mitsu couldn't think of any reason to object. Still, she stammered, "Well, um… That is, uh…" When she silently asked Sumire what she thought, her sister gave a tired but appreciative smile and nod. Mitsu herself smiled warmly at her decision, and hoped her gratitude showed when she faced the considerate man again. "That'd be great, Sage. Thanks."

Sage nodded agreeably, and extended his hands toward the girl beside her. "Come on, Sumire. Arms around my neck." Sumire did as she was told while he gathered her to him, sighing as her ankle was relieved of its burdensome pressure.

Mitsu's heart softened as she watched Sage carry her sister toward a clearing Masaji had found, holding her gently as one would a wounded fawn. For a moment, she wondered what it would be like if she were the one in his arms…until she shook her head to clear it of such nonsense. I must be more tired than I thought, Mitsu reasoned as she then embarked away from the river in Sage's footsteps. Indeed, it felt even more inappropriate considering that barely two days had passed since they first met. And yet, she'd already learned so much about him.

Just then, Masaji came running up to her with two sticks in his hand. "I found these for Sumire," he grinned as he stopped in front of her and then ran his fingers down them to show how straight they were. "You looked tired, so I thought I'd find them in case you wanted to make a new cast for her."

Mitsu's eyes lit up and the corners of her mouth lifted as she took the sticks. "Thank you very much, Masaji. That was very thoughtful of you." Despite wanting to avoid thoughts of Sage, she couldn't help but wonder if this was his doing, at least in part.

Earlier that afternoon, Mitsu had heard the young man and her brother talking during her search for a pair of sticks for Sumire's new cast. But then a twig had snapped loudly under her foot, and she'd turned back, not wanting to get caught eavesdropping. In any case, there was no denying the impression Sage had left on Masaji. It was obvious enough when they'd returned and her brother went nuts about the brief lesson in kendo Sage had given him – since his family owned the esteemed Date Dojo.

The latter had particularly surprised Mitsu. She'd already known Sage's surname, and yet – in spite of her own affinity for kendo – she somehow hadn't been able to put two and two together. For that matter, not once had Sage even mentioned it before nor bragged about it since as one might expect of someone from such a prestigious family.

Suddenly aware of her idling state of mind, she attempted to busy herself by making a new cast for her sister just as she had earlier that day. Once she was done, Sumire handed her a bottle of water. "Take it, Mitsu," she urged her with a smile that revealed her lifted spirits. "You don't need to slave over the rest of us just because you're the oldest."

Mitsu returned her smile at the reminder that Sage's influence hadn't been limited to just her brother. "Thanks, Sumire." She took the bottle and began downing the water, groaning in relief as it literally washed away the parched state of her throat, when she suddenly felt a hand on her shoulder. She jolted, splashing herself – and her already blushing face reddened all the more in embarrassment when she heard Sage's awkward apology.

"Sorry, Mitsu. I didn't mean to startle you; it's just that…" Mitsu turned toward him when he trailed off, and his expression told her that he had something very important on his mind. "I need to talk to you."

Curious to know what about, Mitsu scanned the clearing until her eyes settled on a boulder on the far side. "Alright then." She pointed out the big rock with her chin. "Let's go over there. And don't worry about the water. It'll dry out." Despite her reassurance, Sage didn't fully meet her gaze until they sat beside each other on the boulder. But at the same time, having only now noticed how he seemed easier on the eyes every time she looked at him, she turned to stare straight ahead. Fortunately, Sage didn't seem too bothered by it.

"Listen," he spoke first, looking in the same direction she was. "I wanted to bring this up earlier but, I didn't really know how." Although initially hesitant, he soon seemed to decide he might as well get on with it. "This may seem weird but, how do you know kendo if you're training to be a geisha?"

For reasons that were a complete mystery to her, Mitsu felt slightly disappointed at his question – not that the question itself was totally out of place. With a hint of a smirk, she replied, "I figured Masaji told you about our 'secret lessons.'"

"And I don't plan on telling anyone," Sage stated more firmly. "Still, I hate to admit it but…when I first met you, I wouldn't have thought a maiko would be into swordplay. You do want to be a geisha, don't you?"

Mitsu raised an intrigued eyebrow. "Is that what you think I want?" She'd been half-teasing, until she spotted the surprise on Sage's face at the corner of her vision. Their gazes then met, and Mitsu saw in his pale eyes a look of understanding that made her want to open up to this young man more than she had to anyone outside her family in a long time… Suddenly aware that she was staring, she looked away again and cleared her throat. Whatever was between them, it couldn't amount to anything more. Still, she conceded, doesn't mean I can't enjoy it while it lasts…

Mitsu sighed as she let her gaze wander around the clearing. "It's been a tradition in my mom's family for generations – the oldest daughter is trained to be a geisha for the Silver Teahouse. I'm the oldest, so naturally my mom started training me when I turned thirteen." She smiled slightly as she recalled happier memories from her early days as a maiko. "At first, I kinda liked it. It was like a glorified game of dress-up." She chuckled, until the corners of her mouth fell again. "But the older I got, the more boxed in I felt…and the more my mom and I argued."

Even as those words passed her lips, Mitsu knew she was putting it mildly. Ever since she'd graduated from high school last year, she and her mother had been at near-constant odds, which sometimes escalated into full-on fights. When Mitsu complained about having to visit the teahouse's hairdresser once a week, her mother bluntly stated that her only other option was wearing a wig. More recently, when Mitsu's debut drew near, she wanted to add a little flair to her dance, but her mother deemed all her suggestions too "flirtatious and unladylike."

"I mean, I love my mom and I know she loves me. I want her to be happy, but…" Mitsu trailed off when she focused her gaze on her sister, who grinned at Masaji with encouragement and approval as he practiced what he'd learned from Sage. "I also want Sumire to be happy. If anything, she wants to be a geisha, not me." She then watched as her brother repeatedly struck the air with a long stick. "I want Masaji to be happy, too, which is why I've been teaching him what I know for the last six months."

Mitsu paused one more time as she looked at the ground. "And of course, I want to be happy. Being a maiko was fun at first, but…it's not something I want to do for the rest of my life."

A brief silence then passed between Mitsu and Sage, until it was broken by the latter. "If you don't mind me asking, what do you want to do, Mitsu?" Whether he knew it or not, his seemingly simple question endeared her all the more to him, and their eyes met once more. Still, she simply shrugged her shoulders.

"To be honest…I don't really know. I guess I just wanna find my own way." Mitsu then felt her spirits lift when her words brought to mind something she'd always been passionate about. "Growing up, our dad told us samurai stories; but my favorites were about their onna-bugeisha counterparts. Ever since I was little I thought they were so cool. I wanted to be just like them. Hōjō Masako, Nakano Takeko, Tomoe Gozen–"

"Oh yeah," Sage suddenly cut in. "Arguably Japan's first major general. 'Fair of face but deadly on the battlefield,' according to my grandmother." His face then fell as he realized he'd interrupted. "Sorry, I didn't mean–"

"No, no, you're fine," Mitsu shook her head reassuringly. "Anyway, by the time I was halfway through high school, I had a friend whose cousin's family owned a dojo. I knew my mom would never go for it, so my friend offered to train me herself."

Another silence passed, one in which Mitsu encouraged Sage to put the remaining pieces together. "So, when Masaji was told he wasn't allowed to learn kendo either, that's when you started teaching him." Mitsu nodded, and was rewarded for opening up to Sage with a look of empathy in his eyes that seemed poised to undo her right then and there. "Normally, I wouldn't condone going behind a parent's back. But…I do get where you're coming from, and I wish you didn't have to resort to that, Mitsu."

"Thank you, Sage," she replied sincerely. Suddenly wanting to indulge her desire to learn more about him, she discreetly asked, "What about you? Are you really related to Date Masamune? Is that how your family came to own the dojo?"

"To answer your first question, yes," he replied, proud but not boasting. "I'm descended from him through my mom." Even as he spoke, Mitsu was briefly stunned when she made the connection between Sage's hairstyle and his ancestor's nickname – the "One-Eyed Dragon" – which came about because the latter lost sight in his right eye to smallpox as a child. "As for the dojo," Sage continued, "it's only been in my family for less than a century. My grandfather is the current head, and it'll be given to me after him."

Curious about the skip in generations, Mitsu asked, "But what about your dad? Or your mom?"

"My mom – my grandfather's daughter – is an only child," Sage replied. "And my dad was adopted into the family when he married her, taking her surname as his. And since I'm their only son, that makes me the only legit heir, where my grandfather is concerned."

Mitsu nodded, satisfied with the explanation. But when the implications to sank in, her heart went out to him. "That must've been a tough thing to live up to."

"In some ways, yes," Sage concurred, "especially when I first learned kendo from my mom." He smirked briefly. "She was kinda like your mom. I love her and she loves me, but…it was like training under a drill sergeant." Mitsu chuckled lightly, but Sage somberly shrugged his shoulders. "In hindsight, I think it's because I was her only son, and she didn't really know how else to raise one." He paused, a thoughtful look on his face. "It's interesting how you grow up and realize your parents are human like you."

Mitsu made a noise of agreement, even as Sage's sentiment made her uncomfortable. Fortunately, he moved on. "When I turned ten though, my grandfather took over my training. He noticed I was developing a bit of a rebellious streak." Mitsu raised a skeptical eyebrow. "I know," Sage agreed in good humor. "I've always liked kendo, but it was my grandfather who taught me meditation and the meaning of discipline." He then sighed, and in the receding light, Mitsu thought she saw regret in his eyes. "But I didn't always heed him."

"What do you mean?" Mitsu asked. This young man was probably the most disciplined she'd ever met. Still, she could see he had a story to tell.

"In high school," he began, "I was the kendo club president. I was even the Northeastern champion for awhile. But…I wasn't popular with everyone." Sage then donned a far-off look, as though seeing his memories unfold as he spoke of them. "One club member, Shingo Kazamatsuri, was unable to make the championships, and since I was the victor, he challenged me." Mitsu leaned forward. Though she tried to hide it out of politeness, she couldn't deny her investment in Sage's tale.

"Shingo was always one to stroke his ego. But our grandfathers were friends, so of course, I had no choice but to accept. I did fine at first. I knew I had to at least please my grandfather. But then, Shingo tried to cheat by tossing sand in my face…" Sage trailed off, and there was no mistaking the remorse in his voice when he next spoke. "That was when I snapped. Even if he deserved it, I went complete and utter savage on him. I hit him and beat him again and again – I was so mad…until I knocked his helmet clean off and he collapsed."

Mitsu let out a light gasp, and Sage nodded in guilty admission. "He woke up about ten minutes later. He was okay, but the damage was already done where I was concerned."

"Oh no," Mitsu breathed, feeling a little guilty herself for her morbid curiosity. "I'm guessing it didn't go over so well with your grandfather?"

"Oh, he was furious," Sage replied bluntly. "My grandfather isn't one for outbursts, but when he's mad, you know it."

"But…what about Shingo's cheating?" Mitsu asked in bewilderment. "Sure, you beat him up, but he started it, didn't he?"

"Nobody saw what he did to me, but everybody saw what I did to him. Not to mention Shingo's grandfather wasn't exactly pleased, to say the least. And even if anyone were inclined to believe me, Shingo could've been banned from competing permanently…and he paid enough when I retaliated…" Once more, Sage stared into the distance. "When he fell after I knocked his helmet off…I thought I killed him. He may have been a pain, but…" He closed his eyes. "I never wanna get that horrible feeling ever again…that I killed an innocent person."

For the second time that day, Mitsu's heart softened. She couldn't help but be astounded at this young man's humility and willingness to own up to his flaws and mistakes. Unbeknownst to her initially, her hand hovered over Sage's back, waiting for her permission to rest on him, to comfort him, to let him know she could never think such grave ill of him…

Before she could give it, both Mitsu and Sage looked up when they heard Masaji calling to them. "You won't believe what I saw just now!" the boy exclaimed animatedly as he ran their way, causing Mitsu to immediately return her hand to her side. Her wide-eyed brother then pointed behind him, nearly panting with excitement. "They were a good way off, but I saw them! A pack of ghost wolves! Their eyes were glowing and everything! Oh man, you should've seen 'em!"

"Wait a minute," Sage suddenly interrupted, his own eyes wide, but with alarm rather than exhilaration. "Are you sure you saw that?"

For a second, Masaji remained silent, as though surprised that he'd actually been believed. But he quickly recovered himself. "Yeah," he replied calmly. "One second, they were there. And the next…they weren't."

Sage's gaze went unsettlingly blank, and Mitsu just barely heard him mutter, "I knew something was wrong!"

His sudden and inexplicable unease proved contagious. Wanting to know just what Sage was getting at, Mitsu spoke sternly to her brother. "That's enough, Masaji. I need to talk to Sage alone."

"Okay…" Masaji then smiled naughtily as he casually walked backward. "But if you two start smoochin', I'm outta here!"

Rather than warn him again, Mitsu simply made a face and gave a low growl that sent Masaji running in the opposite direction. "Good timing, actually," Sage complimented. But when Mitsu gave him her attention once more, his face was heavy with a gravity she'd yet to learn the nature of. "We should probably set up a watch like before. But this time, I think it'd be best if I take it alone."

Mitsu's eyes widened in astonishment. "Absolutely not! You may be fooling yourself, Sage, but you're not fooling me. I can tell you're as tired as the rest of us. Why don't we do what we did last night and let me take the first shift?"

Sage adamantly shook his head. "I'm sorry, Mitsu, but I can't let you do that. I don't know exactly what your brother thought he saw, but clearly something must be out there waiting for us."

"Oh really?" Mitsu furrowed her eyebrows at him, her hands on her hips. "How do you know he wasn't just making it up?"

"How do you know he was?" Sage retorted. But eventually, he seemed to realize Mitsu wasn't going to budge. "Okay, I guess we're gonna have to compromise, again." He sighed as though tired of giving in to her. "I'll go and get a few hours of sleep, but that's it." His eyes then sharpened with warning. "If anything happens before midnight, wake me up. Otherwise, wake me at that hour and I'll take the second shift. We clear?"

Though still frustrated at his stubbornness, Mitsu was mostly satisfied. "I suppose." Without another word or even a nod, Sage went off alone toward an unoccupied corner of the clearing, away from Mitsu and her siblings, leaving her to wonder what'd just happened. What's his deal? Why all this mystery and whatnot? It's not like we're in any more danger…than…before…

Had lightning struck right in front of her, Mitsu couldn't have been more shocked. Somehow, until now, she'd forgotten about the dream she had in which a shadow resembling her stood over an army of silhouettes. And come to think of it, one of them, sprawled on the ground, rather closely resembled…Sage. Could this all be connected to what I saw? she speculated silently. And even if it is, what does it all mean…?

What does all of this mean? Sage wondered the exact same thing hours later, though under different circumstances. Surprisingly, Mitsu had acted in accordance with his wishes, waking him at midnight without any report of any incident. Ever since, he stood with his back to his sleeping charges. Ever since, he stood alone in the darkness just as he'd done the night before, watching the moon slowly creep toward the horizon, alert for any sign of trouble, even as weariness continued to tug at his eyelids.

Had his usually sharp spiritual sense failed him? Impossible, he'd concluded long ago. Still, for the entirety of Sage's shift so far, Masaji's pack of ghostly wolves had never once made their presence known. And surely Mitsu would've told him if she'd noticed anything…? Sage sighed. If nothing else, the absence of danger had given him time to think through his feelings for her − if he even dared call them that. But what other explanation could there be for what made him open up like that to her − a girl he'd known only a couple days?

At first, he'd reasoned he might as well bring up his flaws if it meant she'd believe him later. But in hindsight, her own willingness to be open about her upbringing that so closely mirrored his, her desire to be like the onna-bugeisha, and the way she spoke to him like a fellow human being instead of a trophy all touched something deep in Sage that hadn't been reached by any other girl he'd known. Beyond wanting her to awaken her powers, he wanted her to step fully into the light, that he might know her better, that he might…

A twig snapped, causing Sage to swiftly face that direction. His tiring state fled as he saw a shadow hastening through the trees, away from the river and the clearing. Though it was still dark, he had a strong feeling he already knew the figure's identity. But where was she off to? And at this hour…? Had the urge not been trained out of him, Sage would've cussed. Was she really just a foolish girl after all? With only one way to find out − never mind how she should take it − he followed her.

Ignoring the strong sense of déjà vu, Sage took advantage of his skills as a Ronin Warrior and as one who knew forest terrain in his pursuit of the tall, feminine shape of Mitsu Tamura. Despite the darkness, he still hid in the shadows cast by the moonlit trees, ready to duck behind one should she ever turn around. Fortunately, she seemed to remain oblivious to his approach. Yet not long after his chase began, Sage spotted a second figure in the distance beyond Mitsu. This one was smaller, and resembled a young boy.

In that moment, Sage realized exactly what was going on. It wasn't Mitsu he should be pursuing − it was her brother! But before he could debate whether or not he should reveal himself, he heard first a sound that made him freeze − rocks sliding − and then another that made his blood run cold − Masaji's scream.

Immediately after, a third sound reached his ears. "Masaji!" Mitsu half-gasped, half-screamed herself as she ran toward the edge. Hesitant no longer, Sage raced forward.

Without thinking, he called out, "Mitsu!" As he hurried her way, Mitsu halted and spun around, her moonlit eyes flashing with surprise upon seeing him.

"Sa−?! AH!" she yelped as the ground beneath her gave way just as it had done for Masaji. Sage shot toward her, his hand outstretched. But he just barely missed her, and his feet stopped him before he too could go over. Fearing the worst, Sage leaned over the treacherous terrain as far as he could, and the sight that greeted him sent adrenaline coursing through his veins.

Halfway down a small ravine, Mitsu clung to a branch with one hand while the other just as desperately clutched her brother's. In turn, Masaji hung on even as the swiftly flowing currents of the river below − likely an offshoot of the Hirose − threatened to drag him away. "Help!" he cried out through coughs. Meanwhile, Mitsu's eyes fixed on Sage for salvation.

Skipping past wanting to know what he was doing here − at least for the moment − she yelled, "Sage! I can't climb up! And I can't hold him for long! Help us!" Having already heeded the call, Sage's gaze flew around the forest that now seemed far darker and larger than before, until he spotted a series of vines climbing up a tree just a few feet away. His pulse pounding, he darted for the vines, snapped them where needed, and then carried a length of it toward another tree standing next to his previous location.

With skillful precision, Sage swung the vine around the trunk and tied it with one end like it was rope. He then tied the other end securely around his wrist, leaving just enough to allow him to reach the edge of the cliff without slipping off. Having watched what he was doing, Mitsu called out, "Will it hold?!"

"It'll have to!" Sage replied. After testing the vine as much as time allowed, he inched forward both carefully and hastily, his hand once again outstretched. "Mitsu! Swing Masaji up to me first! Then I'll get you! Do it now!"

Mitsu's countenance now determined, she glanced at her brother and shouted, "Hold on Masaji!" Without pausing, she gave a great grunt of effort and Masaji let out a surprised yelp as she swung him up toward Sage. With trained reflexes, he grasped the boy by his shirt-collar, and grunted with his own effort as he hauled Masaji up onto dry, even ground. After quickly assessing that he was alright, Sage turned toward Mitsu and stretched his hand out a third time − just as the branch started to give.

"Mitsu!" Sage and Masaji both cried. Needing no further incentive, she threw her spare hand up − and just in the nick of time. The branch fell into the river, leaving Mitsu dangling over the cliffside with Sage as her only lifeline. He promptly lifted her up toward him with his remaining strength − and ignored as best he could just how close in proximity they were to each other. "Use the vine," he directed her. As he then followed her on her way up the slippery slope, he felt grateful that the vine held as much as it did. But it was too soon.

Just as Mitsu reached safety, the vine snapped, and Sage gasped as gravity dragged him back to the edge. But before he could fall, the length that was still wrapped around his wrist stretched taut again, stopping him with a jolt. Baffled at how fast everything was happening, he looked up, and was pleasantly surprised to see Mitsu gripping the vine in a pair of white-knuckled fists. "I don't think so!" she hissed through gritted teeth. Gathering all her strength to win this life-threatening tug of war, she pulled Sage toward her with a groan, until he too was finally safe at the top of the slope.

Now that the ordeal was over, everyone gave a great collective sigh of relief − with Masaji bent over, Mitsu on her knees, and Sage sprawled out on the forest floor. "So…are we all okay?" he asked once he managed to catch his breath.

"Yeah," Mitsu replied with a coping chuckle. "A little winded and shaken, but…we're good."

Sage exhaled in satisfaction. He soon regained his feet, and though they were all safe from the raging river, he instinctively offered Mitsu his hand. The sight of her perplexed face at his gesture was so cute it made him chuckle. "Guess it's my turn to thank you for saving my life." The young woman only nodded, her eyes wide with wonder, before taking his hand and letting him pull her up. And once more, Sage was uncomfortably aware of how they were mere centimeters apart.

Remembering then that there was a third person with them, he immediately turned to check on him − only to be taken aback at Masaji's state. Soaked to the skin, the otherwise tall boy looked rather small as he hugged himself, shivering with chilled exhaustion. But while he definitely looked the worst for wear out of all of them, he at least appeared unharmed. "Sage," Mitsu suddenly spoke. "I couldn't thank you enough, but what were you−" She broke off as her eyes widened again, this time in renewed alarm. "Where's Sumire?! Is she okay?!"

Sage's relief fled about as quickly as it was found as he realized he'd forgotten all about Mitsu's sister, who'd been left at the clearing − alone. But whereas Mitsu was on the verge of panic, he maintained his cool. "Mitsu, calm down. When I last saw Sumire, she was asleep back at camp. I saw you running off into the woods, so I followed you, and it wasn't until right before Masaji slipped that I figured out you were following him."

Despite his attempts to put her at ease, Sage sighed as his regret and self-reproach caught up with him. "I admit it − I was so focused on you that I forgot about her. But I promise you, if Sumire were in danger, I'd know it."

He felt the tiniest bit of relief again as he himself recognized the truth of that last statement − which in turn made him recall how he'd somewhat inadvertently revealed his semi-sixth sense the night before. Luckily, as if remembering that as well, Mitsu began to relax. "You're right, Sage," she herself sighed. "If anything, it was more my fault. I thought I could handle Masaji on my own. Speaking of whom…"

She then directed her gaze toward her still shivering brother. Even in the dark, Sage could see her green eyes glow with outrage. Masaji himself frowned guiltily as understanding dawned on him. "I'm in trouble, aren't I?"

"Big time," Mitsu replied with thinly-veiled rage. Remarkably, her calm demeanor returned as she addressed their rescuer one more time. "Sage, I know what we just said. But now that we're heading back to camp, would you mind going ahead of us to check on Sumire?"

Sage's first instinct was to protest that it was too dangerous for him to leave her and Masaji alone. But when he saw the dark gray sky of early dawn − and reminded himself of Mitsu's confidence in him − he nodded. "Of course."

He didn't say so, but the growing tension between sister and brother served as further incentive for Sage to hasten back through the wood. He returned to the clearing without incident, and then looked toward the spot where Sumire had bedded down. To his renewed relief, there she was still, sleeping soundly, unaware of what'd just happened. But for how long? Nonetheless, now that he knew Sumire was alright, Sage's remaining concern for her siblings − and a bit of morbid curiosity − compelled him to wait for them at the edge of the camp.

He eventually spotted them several yards away, then waited until his and Mitsu's eyes met before giving her a reassuring nod that her sister was safe. Mitsu promptly nodded back in gratitude − and then proceeded to deal with the matter of her other sibling. Before Masaji could get too far away, the boy's older sister laid a hand on his shoulder, forcing him to face her revived wrath. Even from where he stood, Sage could hear what was being said and see the animated expressions on both their faces in the confrontation that followed.

"Thought you could sneak off, huh? Look at me!" she snapped when Masaji didn't meet her gaze, continuing only when he obeyed. "Listen, I'm glad you're okay. But that doesn't excuse the sheer stupidity of your stunt!" She stepped forward, arms crossed as she towered over her brother. "Masaji Tamura, I wanna know what in the world possessed you to go off by yourself, in the middle of the night, in a place you're not familiar with at all." Through her teeth, she added, "And I wanna know now!"

Masaji looked away again, but he did as he was told and explained himself, though with a hint of resentment. "I couldn't sleep. I kept thinking about the pack of wolves I told you and Sage about. I wanted to see if I could find them. I wanted to impress everybody." He then redirected his gaze back at his sister, but if he'd had any hope of changing her mood, it was dashed when he saw she was even more furious.

"Seriously?!" Mitsu barked in disbelief. "You've been impressing us since before this trek even started. And now you endanger not only yourself, but also me, Sage, and even Sumire just because you want your ego stroked!" She huffed as she shook her head in displeasure. "I am very disappointed in you, Masaji! You just turned twelve a month ago! I shouldn't have to talk to you like this!"

"Alright! I get it! I'm sorry!" Masaji burst out all of a sudden. He then jabbed an indignant finger at his sister and added, "But you'd better not tell Mom and Dad!"

Though unimpressed, Mitsu assured him, "Don't worry, I won't." But any relief Masaji might have felt was bombed when she declared, "I'll instead tell them how you generously volunteered to help Sumire along for the rest of the journey."

"What?!" Masaji objected with the same level of outrage that Mitsu had just shown. "That's no fair! You can't expect me to do all the work!"

"Sure I can," Mitsu replied with saintly patience. "And I can also tell Mom and Dad about how you nearly drowned yourself in the river. And then they can ground you! It's your call, Masaji."

Masaji stood back, mirroring her stance, right down to the crossed arms. Though he looked ready to explode with anger, he eventually huffed through his teeth, "Fine." He then stomped away from her and toward the clearing, fists at his sides he stared straight ahead. Sage said nothing as he passed him, and Masaji didn't so much as glance at him. Still, he continued to watch as the boy hiked back to camp, until he sensed Mitsu beside him and turned to face her.

At the sight of her emotionally exhausted expression, Sage unconsciously laid a hand on her shoulder. "Hey, you're right to be angry with him. But…if it makes you feel any better, I'll talk to him if you want."

Mitsu half-smiled. "Thanks, Sage. I don't want you to feel as though you need to get involved − especially given what it tends to lead to now − but…thanks for helping us out, again." Both then realized where Sage's hand was, and he immediately dropped it back down. Feeling immensely awkward for the third time this night, he only nodded, and the two trudged back up the trail together in silence. Once they made it back, Mitsu groaned with disappointment, and Sage quickly saw why − Sumire was awake.

She rubbed her eyes and yawned, only to don a look of bewildered surprise as she saw Masaji pouting at the far corner in soaked clothes − and Sage and Mitsu looking like they'd just returned from an early morning stroll. "What's happening now?" she asked with another yawn. "Did I just miss something?"

Despite being denied more sleep, Mitsu smirked slightly. "I'll fill you in later." Then, addressing everyone else, she added more loudly and clearly, "Since we're all awake, we might as well get ready to move on." But before she could speak further, she winced and let out what sounded like a pained hiss as she bent forward. Sage opened his mouth to ask what was wrong, but she shook her head. "I think I got another rock in my shoe. Would you mind taking over?" Though he wasn't sure he believed her, Sage nodded.

"Sure thing." Turning his back to allow her some privacy as she limped off on her own, Sage addressed her family. "You heard her. It may be early but we're more than halfway on the trail to Sendai. With the best of luck, we should arrive by early afternoon." If we don't meet any ghost hounds, he added to himself. While he agreed with Mitsu that Masaji's stunt was stupid, he still didn't want to dismiss the possibility that there could be enemies stalking them. He needed to be extra alert today. The last thing he wanted was to fail his charges − especially Mitsu.

"Are you sure you're okay, Mitsu?" Sumire asked as though from a distance. Mitsu lifted her head, ignoring how heavy it felt, as well as the near-blinding rays of the midday sun. Ever since they resumed their trek hours ago, Mitsu had remained at the rear of the formation, wanting to ensure Masaji held his end of the bargain by assisting Sumire until they reached Sendai. He of course complained, but not as often as Mitsu had expected, allowing her to reason that Sage must've gotten through to him. But as for Mitsu herself…

Starting at mid-morning, she felt more faint than usual. She'd first attributed it to her lack of sleep, then the exhaustion from the ordeal with the river. But as time went on, more symptoms appeared. Despite the day's heat, an ever-present chill surrounded her. And though she drank water every mile just like yesterday, her thirst was such that it felt as if only the whole of the Hirose could quench it. Though she'd apparently done well in hiding it from everyone, Mitsu couldn't hide it from herself. She knew what this was.

It all went back to the moment when she left Sage in charge while going off to check on her foot. Ignoring her guilt about the same excuse she'd used before, she'd removed her shoe and then the cloth belt bandage − and stiffened when she saw her once simple scratch looking far uglier than before. Yet even then, she'd told herself it was just a trick of the light, and had rearranged the makeshift bandage before putting her shoe back on and returning to the clearing.

Now that she was feeling all but worn out, feverish, and thirsty beyond measure in addition to the now-constant pain in her foot, Mitsu knew it was time to face facts, at least personally − her cut had gotten infected. "Mitsu, did you hear me?" Sumire's voice then echoed again. "I was asking if you're okay?"

Her question reminded Mitsu of the other reason she'd remained at the back. Out of all the people in their party, the last one she wanted catching on to her condition was Sage. Never mind that she now knew she could trust him. If he found out she'd hidden this from him since the beginning, had lied to him… Mitsu didn't dare dwell on it. Instead, she nodded reassuringly at her sister. "I'm fine, Sumire. Really."

Fortunately, Sumire left it at that. "I hope so. Sage says we're close to being less than half a mile from Sendai." Her face then lit up as she added, "Just think! We'll finally see Mom and Dad again!"

Masaji cut in with the same frown that'd been on his face all day. "I just hope she keeps her promise and doesn't tell on me!" And whatever followed from her siblings after that, Mitsu tuned out.

Though she too hoped her parents were alive and well, she felt a strange emptiness at the notion of this journey drawing to a close. And unlike her other symptoms, she knew it had nothing to do with her foot, or even the approaching end to the thrill of their adventure. It was the thought of parting from Sage that'd planted that void within her. As was the case with her infected wound, reluctant though she was to admit it, Mitsu could no longer deny that she'd come to feel for this young man far more than she should have…

Before she knew it, Mitsu's train of thought led her once again back to her dream − specifically the scene in which her shadow stood above what she now believed to be Sage's shadow. The striking resemblance coupled with the air of mystery surrounding him made her realize that, regardless of what she felt about Sage, she had to know just who this guy was. Filled with resolve that seemed to restore her energy, Mitsu hastened past her siblings and eventually halted next to Sage where he stood at the summit of a boulder.

In spite of her original intentions, Mitsu was momentarily floored at the sight that greeted her. Though still a way off, it was without a doubt the city she called home and had never been happier to see in her life − Sendai. The mere thought of returning to civilization was enough to make her sigh with near-euphoric relief, and judging by his chuckle, Sage had noticed. "Glad I'm not the only one who feels like I'm on top of the world."

The sound of his voice immediately reminded Mitsu of her initial purpose. She turned toward the young man − and ignored the urge to run her fingers through his fine fair hair. "Actually Sage, there's something I need to ask you."

"What is i−?" Sage turned to face her, but then broke off as his eyes widened and his mouth fell open in shock. "Mitsu, I'm sorry but…" He firmly shook his head. "You do not look well at all!"

He's on to me! she realized with dread. Even so, she stood her ground. "What are you talking about?" she asked indignantly. "Sure, I'm a little tired but, I'm fine." As soon as that last word left her lips, a yawn betrayed her.

"A little tired?!" Sage doubted incredulously. "Mitsu, you look sick! And why are you shivering?" He then reached out to feel her forehead, but she immediately backed away.

Eyebrows furrowed in defiance, Mitsu half-insisted, half-growled through her teeth, "I'm telling you…I'm fine!"

Before Sage could insist otherwise, both turned their heads when Masaji spoke with uncharacteristic anxiety. "Uh, guys, I know what I said last night, but…" He then pointed a trembling finger in the direction they'd just walked. "Please tell me I'm seeing things."

Sudden sisterly concern quickly compelled Mitsu to put aside her argument with Sage, and she promptly searched the landscape. There was nothing at first except green treetops, the blue ribbon that was the flowing river…and the black shadows of the inner forest. Zeroing in on the latter, it wasn't long before Mitsu spotted what had so unnerved Masaji − and a non fever-related shiver rattled her spine.

Despite the distance, she felt the piercing glares of dozens of disembodied eyes that glowed in a sinister shade of red. Other than that, their forms didn't catch any light. But it only took the echo of a blood-curdling howl for Mitsu to realize with horror what they were, and spin around to give Sage the same desperate gaze she'd given him at the river.

Facing her brother instead of her, he asked in controlled yet ever-increasing alarm, "Is that what you saw last night, Masaji? Is that the pack of wolves?!" When the boy nodded rapidly in fear, the color drained from Sage's face. "Then we're in even more danger than I thought." He then declared to everyone, "We need to run straight for the city!"

Daring to look back, Mitsu gasped in shock when the ghostly pack burst out of the trees with the ease of the black smoke that billowed around them in their wake. And she didn't need Sage's sixth sense to know they'd found their prey − in her siblings, herself, and Sage. "Too late!" she exclaimed. "They're coming for us!"

"That doesn't mean we can't flee!" Sage retorted. "Come on, Sumire − on my back!" The girl obeyed immediately, though she needed Masaji to help her find her hold. Once she did, Sage gave everyone a simple command. "RUN!" Mitsu and Masaji though had already shot forward. And soon the whole party was scrambling down the opposite side of the boulder before taking off on even ground.

As they fled on already travel-weary legs, Mitsu was certain she was pushing herself the hardest out of everybody. Every inch of her body protested − from her weak limbs to her pounding heart to her lungs that screamed for oxygen. But she spurred on, even as she felt herself trailing behind, heard the vicious barking of the predators, and imagined being torn apart by those creatures that resembled hellhounds more than actual wolves…

Suddenly, Mitsu decided she was tired of running, and not because of physical exhaustion − though she was dangerously close to it. She then saw that they were nearing a rock face − and in that moment, she knew exactly what to do to stop these monsters. But her plan would only work if she got everyone to cooperate. "Everyone, follow me toward the rocks over there!" Without stopping, she changed course even when she heard protests ringing in her ears, most of which came from Sage.

"Mitsu!" "What are you doing?!" "This isn't a game!" "You're gonna get us all killed!" Ignoring them, Mitsu halted only when she reached the base of the cliff. She then spun around to face the others − every single one of them staring at her with wide, baffled eyes and gaping mouths.

Standing tall, Mitsu spoke loud and clear. "I'm done being a coward! We gotta show them we aren't scared of them!" She then pointed to the top of the rock face and ordered in a tone that dared any to argue with her, "Everyone do as I say and climb! Now!" Without another word, she turned and proceeded to ascend up the miniature mountain, not pausing to see if anyone was following her until she reached the top.

Though they hadn't been given much choice to do otherwise, it was still rather surprising when everyone did obey her, even Sage, to whom Sumire was still clinging for dear life. And rightly so. Soon after, the barking of the wolves intensified, culminating in their exit from the trees that was just as explosive as the first. As Mitsu wanted, they stopped only when they reached the base of the cliff. But now that she was actually confronting them, the blood in her veins froze. While she'd never seen a wolf in person, she knew this monstrous breed was not of this world.

Black fog continued floating around them, adding to their already diabolical air. Their forms still absorbed no light, giving each the appearance of a living shadow. Deep growls rumbled from their throats, razor-sharp teeth lined their jaws, and their red eyes blazed as they scowled at their out-of-reach prey with menacing resentment. And yet, somehow, in spite of the terror they initially inspired, Mitsu soon found the gall to stand up to them, even if she was alone in doing so. Fixing her gaze directly on the pack leader's without so much as a flinch, she growled back.

To her own brief surprise, every one of the wolves, including their leader, started to slowly retreat, unease glinting in their eyes − until it was obscured by yet more hate. But Mitsu wasn't daunted. Taking up a rock the size of her fist, she returned the alpha's scowl as she took aim. "Die, hellspawn!"

With these words, Mitsu threw as hard as she could. Her weapon struck the pack leader between the eyes, earning her a furious roar of indignation. But rather than leap up at her, the alpha shot her one last vengeful glare before turning and fleeing back toward the woods, urging the rest of the pack to do the same.

Mitsu could hardly believe it herself at first. The pack had vanished as quickly as they'd appeared. Was it truly because of her? She wasn't sure, even as she heard her siblings' praises. "Mitsu…you saved us!" "Man! That…was…awesome!"

But Mitsu didn't have the energy to enjoy her victory. Black spots danced across her vision and her head felt heavier than ever. Her showdown with such an otherworldly threat had clearly taken its toll, and a fresh wave of fatigue crashed over her. But before she herself could crash into the ground, she felt a strong and steady pair of arms catch her and hoist her back up on her feet. "Mitsu…!"

Sage… Despite the comfort she found in his embrace, Mitsu suddenly wanted to insist like before that she was fine. But only a moan escaped her lips.

"Guys…!" Sage's voice sounded as though it was echoing from the walls of a canyon. "I don't know what's wrong with Mitsu, but she needs help, now!"

"I think I saw a road leading to a bridge…a few yards from here!" Sumire's breathless tone reached her ears. "I knew she was pushing herself too hard!"

"Never mind that!" Sage urged. "Masaji, you help Sumire while I help Mitsu." All of a sudden, Mitsu sensed that she was being half-dragged, half-carried toward a destination she couldn't see. She forgot which way was up and felt as though she'd lost all sense of direction, time, and space. Everything that followed flew by in a blur of clashing colors and indistinct shapes. She felt herself slowing down, and then setting off again. She thought she heard shouts of alarm and confusion, but she couldn't make out their words nor see who they belonged to.

The next thing Mitsu knew, she was being directly exposed to the heat and harsh light of the sun, making her hiss. She then heard Sage gasp in surprise. "Yayoi!"

Wanting to know where she was and what was going on, Mitsu forced her eyes open, and the only clear image that greeted her was the face of a woman in her mid-twenties − who greatly resembled Sage right down to her blond hair. "Sage?!" the woman echoed his gasp, equally startled. "Is that you?!" Without waiting for an answer, she added rapidly, "What are you doing here?! And who's this?!"

"I'll explain later," Sage replied. "This is Mitsu. And right now, she needs all the help she can get!" But Mitsu wasn't having it. Fed up with being dragged around like a ragdoll, she shoved Sage off in an attempt to stand on her own. But the black spots returned with a vengeance, and the world seemed to spin in a haze.

The last thing she remembered clearly was the blond woman shouting in panic, "Oh no! Someone catch her! She's gonna−!" And just like that, despite her day-long fight against the weariness that threatened to consume her, Mitsu was plunged into darkness and all her senses failed her.

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