Emperor of the Fireflies

By Sarah Ash

Sparks... glittering like fireflies against the night sky...

Kai and Masao, once enemies, are now condemned to the sea by the Tide Dragons Sacrifice. If Hotaru, the new emperor, is unable to summon the Tide Dragons of Ebb and Flood at the Autumn Moon Festival, he will forfeit the right to rule Cipangu. The two Sacrifices face a desperate race against time to free themselves from this ancient curse before Hotaru binds them with forbidden magic to obey his will – forever.

Sakami, Kai's lover, has become a kitsune, a fox spirit. She is determined to do all in her power to save him – but is Hotaru, aided by his treacherous shikigami, Kurika, just too formidable an opponent to overcome?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tourmalise Press
• Release date: Nov 28, 2016
• ISBN: 9781912022946

Book preview

Acknowledgments

Prologue

Roar of breakers cresting, each one higher than the last, crashing in toward the shore…

The sea is angry. The young vixen lifted her head, pricking up her ears. Can’t you feel it, Honou?

The sleek dog fox lifted his head too to sniff the air. I can smell a storm, he said. And then he growled, deep at the back of his throat, fur bristling as if scenting an enemy nearby. Tide Dragons, he said with loathing. Tide Dragons stirring up trouble.

We should go and see for ourselves. She set out, skidding down the steep mountain path, winding in and out between the pines.

Hey, wait, Sakami! Honou came bounding after her. Lady Inari told us to guard the castle shrine.

But this could mean danger for everyone. The disturbing sense of imminent danger was making her restless; she had to move, to take action, even if she wasn’t sure what it might be.

Everyone? He caught up with her and cut in front of her, forcing her to stop. Who exactly do you mean by everyone?

A throng of human faces flashed across Sakami’s mind. She gave a little whine of confusion. So many people…

Honou was staring at her shrewdly. Are you getting your mortal memories back? He walked around and around her, russet brush slowly swishing, the white tip flicking the tops of the long grasses.

You’re making me dizzy, Honou, please stop.

He stopped, his cool, moist nose touching hers, gazing deep into her eyes. Alarmed, she took a little jump backward. You could forget about them all, all the humans, and just be mine, he said softly.

He was so close that she could breathe in his musky scent; it set off strange, giddy feelings that were not entirely unpleasant.

Well? he said, nuzzling her suggestively. You do like me. You’ve always liked me.

I… Another shudder of seawater comes flooding in. She skipped away again, fur bristling with the sense of approaching danger. There’s no time for liking now! We must see for ourselves. And she turned, making for the cliff top. Honou bounded after her, catching up with her as she came out of the shelter of the forest pines and ventured on to the rough grass of the high promontory that overlooked the bay.

Look, she said. Below them, all she could see was a great expanse of dirty gray sea, stretching far out into the distant horizon. The water had come in far beyond the high tide mark and was lapping around the trunks of the forest trees at the edge of the beach. Ships at anchor in the bay below were being tossed to and fro by the surging tide, and the beach had disappeared beneath the in-rushing sea.

This is bad, said Honou. If it doesn’t stop soon…

And then a fine rain began to fall, silvery crystal drops that shimmered unnaturally bright against the louring gray of the sky.

This rain… Sakami gazed upward, opening her jaws, letting it fall on her tongue. It’s so sweet.

Honou copied her. This is the best rain I’ve ever tasted, he said, licking his chops with enthusiasm. It’s…different from the usual.

Ohhh… Sakami closed her eyes in an ecstasy of sensations. As the raindrops melted on her tongue, she caught a glimpse of a young man with eyes as blue as the sun-drenched deep. He gazed at her with a look so intense and tender that it made her ache with sadness, although she didn’t know why. Then he turned, and began to walk away. "Don’t go. Wait! Her heart started to pound. I know you. I know you so well."

What are you babbling about? Honou nipped her gently, yet sharply enough to shatter the vision. She blinked at him. The fleeting image had gone but the sensation remained, so intense that it frightened her. I – I felt as if I just lost something. Or someone. Someone very important to me.

But before Honou could reply, a gust like a deep sigh stirred the forest and set the cliff-top grasses rippling. The Rice Goddess Inari, their mistress, flitted past them, her hands covering her face, her white robes streaming out behind her.

Lady Inari? Sakami called. The goddess stopped, hearing her voice, and turned. Sakami saw that her face was wet with tears.

What’s wrong, my lady? Sakami crept up to her and rubbed her head gently against her, wanting to comfort her. Why are you so sad? Why are you crying?

Sakami, Honou. Inari stroked their coats and Sakami closed her eyes, reveling in the deep pleasure she felt at her touch; the goddess’s fingers exuded a soft tingle of warmth that made her whole body glow. My little ones. Thank you for reminding me of my true purpose. She wiped the glistening tears from her cheeks. I am Inari now. I’m not Empress Himiko any longer, although it seems that I still retain her memories. I… Her words died away as she suddenly went very still, as though listening intently.

No, Sakami heard her murmur. Not now. Not here. She rose. Run, children. Get away while you can.

***

Naoki and Yūgiri, summoned to attend on Prince Hotaru, found the emperor-elect in the abbot’s garden overlooking the sea.

We pursued the prisoners along the cliff path. An officer in the imperial guards presented Hotaru with a plain black flute and a katana. But this was all we found.

A flute, said Hotaru, examining the slender instrument, and a sword?

There was a burst of dazzling light…and when we could see clearly again, the fugitives had vanished.

I see.

If they jumped into the sea from the cliffs, I doubt they would have survived the fall. We’re searching the shore to see if any bodies have been washed up.

Bodies. Naoki sensed Yūgiri flinch but the clan healer remained mute.

Do you recognize this sword, Lord Naoki? Hotaru asked, nodding to the officer to hand the weapon to him. Naoki took it and, after a swift glance, identified the distinctive scarlet mon on the hilt that marked it as belonging to an elite Akatobi retainer.

"That katana belongs to Lord Masao, my brother."

Then, Lord Naoki, please receive your brother’s sword; perhaps your father would like to have it in his keeping until we can discover what has become of its owner.

Naoki bowed his head as he took the katana in both hands and returned to Yūgiri’s side.

They can’t be dead. . .can they? Masao’s a strong swimmer. . .but the jump from such a great height could have knocked him unconscious…

And I will look after Lord Kaito’s flute, said Hotaru, handing it to his page Kobai. He turned away from the sea, saying as he left, Interrogate anyone who was on the shore – or the cliffs – at the time. I want to know if anyone witnessed anything unusual.

***

The Tide Jewels. Emperor-elect Hotaru stood in the burned-out shell of the Tide Dragon temple, gazing at the two sacred pearls in his hands; in his left lay the Ebb Jewel, creamy-white as tide-foam, and in his right, the Flood Jewel, a deep and translucent blue.

Fakes, he murmured. Only he knew they were fakes – or so he hoped. He had lost his hold on the original sacred jewels when Kaito of the Black Cranes had pushed him into the sea – and nearly ruined all his carefully-laid plans to depose his brother, Emperor Suzaku.

What followed seemed like a miracle wrought by the gods of sea: the jewels had melted on contact with the waves, creating a glistening fountain that showered down on the whole coastline, extinguishing the fire ravaging the Tide Dragon monastery. It was only thanks to his swift use of a substitution charm that he had managed to conceal the fake stones in his sleeves, so that it looked as if he had saved the originals. To all – but Lord Kaito.

Imperial majesty. Nakakuni, captain of the imperial guard, came hurrying toward him from the cliff path, followed by several of his men.

Any further sign of the prisoners, Captain?

Nakakuni shook his head. We’ve had the local fishermen searching the bay. They say there’s no way that Lord Kaito or Lord Masao could have survived that jump from the cliffs into the sea.

But no bodies have been washed ashore yet?

No, imperial majesty.

Hotaru wanted firm proof that Kaito was dead. Keep searching, he said. Nakakuni’s reputation was already tarnished by the fact that he had let two such important prisoners escape and it was obvious to Hotaru that he was eager to restore his good name.

Back in his rooms in the monastery guest house, Hotaru placed the fake Tide Jewels in a little black lacquered casket next to the ebony flute found abandoned on the cliff path after Lord Kaito had thrown himself into the sea to escape the imperial guards. Beside it lay Lord Masao’s katana, its hilt and sheath bearing the distinctive scarlet Akatobi clan mon.

There’s a connection between this flute and the Tide Dragons, I’m certain of it. He picked the flute up and blew gently over the mouthpiece. A soft, breathy note issued and he winced. If I can unravel precisely what that is and use it… He laid the flute down carefully.

Why I am I fretting over such a trivial matter? I have a year until the next Festival in which to track the Tide Dragons and re-forge the bond between the sea and the imperial house. And there are more immediate concerns to be sorted out first.

Hotaru pushed back his left sleeve which concealed the black-and-scarlet Fire Dragon seal tattooed on the underside of his wrist. He pressed firmly on the seal, whispering the name of his most powerful shikigami.

Kurika; I need you. Come quickly.

He felt a stab of heat as the little flame inked with the dragon’s blood glowed faintly. But Kurika did not appear. Where on earth can he be? He should respond instantly to his master’s summons.

Hotaru pressed again, more forcefully this time. He’s been gone far too long. Why hasn’t he reappeared? He tried to ignore the growing feeling of unease that had been troubling him since the shikigami had failed to obey his summons. Kurika’s becoming more willful by the day. I can’t afford to lose control of him again. He caused so much damage that first time…

***

Honou, Sakami whispered, I’m afraid. The air thrummed with a fiery energy that was utterly different from the surging force of the sea she had experienced earlier. It sizzled through her mind with a fierce and furious heat that made her chest burn, as though seared by a lethal burst of flame.

Get behind me, Honou said staunchly. I’ll protect you.

It’s coming this way. What is it? I – I’ve felt this power before. Fear paralyzed her; she wanted to flee but her paws wouldn’t move. Choking smoke swirled up in her mind.

Fire. Our village is on fire. . .

Go! Inari cried, drawing herself up to her full height as a cloud scudded across the sun, plunging the mountainside into darkness. Daring to glance up, Sakami saw not a cloud but a dragon hurtling toward them, its sinuous body dark, yet exuding a red glow of heat, like charcoal in a brazier.

Sakami. Honou nudged her. Over there. He pushed her toward the shelter of some tumbled boulders close by. As she dashed behind the lichened stone, she felt a shimmer of stifling heat emanating from the dragon’s body. I hope it doesn’t set the undergrowth alight…

Inari positioned herself in front of the boulders, a dazzling sentinel protecting the foxes sheltering behind her as the dragon circled overhead.

It made a sudden dart toward her and Inari flung up her arms, creating a shield of pale, pure light around her. Repelled, the dragon let out a piercing hiss of frustration that hurt Sakami’s sensitive ears. She shrank against Honou for reassurance, feeling the pounding of his heart resonating throughout his taut body; he was tensed, ready to fight.

The dragon circled overhead, readying itself for a second assault. But instead of snorting out a blast of fire as Sakami imagined it would, the creature landed on the cliff top, shrouding itself in a billowing swirl of spark-studded smoke. A figure emerged, striding straight toward them. Sakami blinked. The dragon had transformed into a tall, powerfully built man, with penetrating eyes, red as molten lava, and flame-streaked black hair that streamed behind him like a cloak. As he approached, she noticed that a tattoo had been etched on his left breast in the shape of a dragon curled in on itself, a circle of scarlet and black.

I’ve seen a tattoo like that before somewhere. . .

I’ve been waiting a long time for this meeting, Inari. The deep, smoke-seared voice was raw with hatred. Too long.

What are you doing here, Kurika?

What am I doing here? Harsh, mocking laughter crackled through the air and Sakami cowered, flattening her body against the ground, fearing the fire kami would sear her with his burning breath. "This is my mountain. Or was my mountain, until you stole it from me. I’ve come to take it back." Sakami could taste Kurika’s fury on the air; it had a bitter, sulfurous taint to it.

This is my territory now. The light streaming from Inari’s body had become so bright that Sakami could no longer look directly at her. You forfeited your right to it when you lost the duel to me.

But where is your sacred sword, Inari? The sword you used to skewer me to the living rock beneath your shrine? Shattered in a thousand pieces and scattered across the mountain. What can you do without it to protect yourself?

And who shattered that sword? Inari stood her ground. Sakami gazed at her in admiration, wondering how the goddess could find the courage to confront such a powerful and vengeful kami. Was it you, Kurika? No. It was the mortal who bound you to him with the life force of his young bride. You’re not free. You’re his creature now.

Kurika flung back his smoke-wreathed head and let out another burst of dry, incredulous laughter.

You’re bluffing, Kurika. You’re still in thrall to your master.

His hold over me is growing weaker. No mortal master can control me for long.

Yet your attack was feeble and easily deflected. You’ve been his servant for seven summers now. You’ve become too dependent on him.

Kurika’s eyes flashed and Sakami shrank back behind Honou. Dependent? He doesn’t even know where I am. He has enough in his life to keep him distracted for a day or two. So here I am, ready to take back what is rightfully mine. Stand aside and let me pass.

I can’t do that, Inari said quietly.

What will it take to change your mind, I wonder? That castle up on the mountainside… the mortals there must be precious to you, as they’ve rebuilt your shrine within its walls. Kurika pointed to the roofs of Kurozuro Castle towering above them beyond the forest trees. How much are those lives worth, Inari?

Something snapped in Sakami’s mind. He was threatening something she knew was very dear to her, even if she couldn’t yet articulate what it was. No! she cried, forgetting Inari’s warning. Don’t hurt them.

And here’s one of your little servants, skulking in the undergrowth. Kurika turned to stare at her and she felt the heat of his gaze searing her.

Transfixed, unable to flee, Sakami looked into his burning eyes and saw for a brief moment the confusion and dislocation simmering deep below his fury.

This is my mountain, my home – why did you take it away from me, Inari?

The sense of frustrated longing was so strong that it almost overwhelmed her.

Perhaps I’ll start with this little one. Kurika reached out one strong-muscled arm toward her, black-taloned fingers extended. Shall I drain the life force from her?

Sakami woke up as the fierce heat of his body enveloped her. Her two spirit tails flickered into life, and a sudden rush of energy pulsed through her body. She heard herself growl at Kurika, baring her teeth.

What am I doing? I haven’t a chance against him. He’s so powerful –

But the outstretched hand froze. The expected attack never came as Sakami saw the dragon tattoo on Kurika’s left breast glow suddenly with a dark radiance. The fire kami gave a low, shuddering gasp and fell back a pace. The other hand rose to clutch at the tattoo as Kurika gritted his teeth in a grimace of pain.

So your master’s called you, Inari observed. And you’re powerless to ignore his command.

Kurika threw back his head and let out a roar of frustration. Another pulse of fiery light emanated from between his tight-clenched fingers and he dropped to one knee, breathing hard.

Damn you. May you rot in the darkness of Yomi – for all eternity, Sakami heard him whisper between hoarse gasps. Does he mean Inari? Or is he cursing his master? As she watched him writhe, fighting the summons with all his strength, she almost felt a pang of sympathy for him. The glow emanating from the tattoo grew brighter until Kurika gave a hiss of steamy breath and leapt into the air.

Sakami stifled a cry, thinking that – in his agony – he had thrown himself over the edge of the cliff. Then she saw the shikigami change back in one convulsive movement into his dragon form and streak away following the coastline, leaving nothing behind him but a faint shimmering trail of smoke and sparks.

***

Inari let out a sigh and sank to the ground, the light around her dispersing. Sakami hurried to her side and nuzzled up against her.

Will you be all right now, Lady Inari?

Yes. Inari slowly raised her head and Sakami saw that the soft luster of her eyes had dulled, as if the encounter with Kurika had drained all her strength. But we must be on our guard. Kurika’s growing more rebellious and his mortal master may soon lose control of him completely. We must be ready for that day.

But how? Honou asked. He’s really strong. And very angry.

What was that strange mark on his breast? Sakami wanted to know.

"That was the Slave seal his master the onmyōji put on him. When the master summons him, he is forced to obey. The longer he delays, the greater the pain inflicted by the Slave seal."

How cruel. Sakami heard herself saying, unable to forget the look of agony in Kurika’s smoldering eyes as he fought to escape his master’s control.

He burned your village; he doesn’t deserve your sympathy! Honou burst out.

"He burned my village?" Was that why I was so afraid of him? Sakami shook her head from side to side, trying to unlock her memory.

What are you doing? Honou was regarding her quizzically. Have you got a flea?

I want to shake my memories free.

"Sakami, Honou, go to the shrine in the castle, and make sure that all is well there with the guardian foxes. Kurika will be back – and he will target you, my kitsune, first. She stroked Sakami’s head and Sakami, overcome by a rush of pleasure, could do nothing but rub up against her, thrilling to her touch. I’m so sorry, my little ones, that I’ve placed you in such danger. But gathered together, you’ll be much stronger if he attacks. She let out another sigh. This comes at the worst possible time for us, just as the rice harvest is ripening. . . Promise me that you’ll stay safe in the castle shrine until I return."

Sakami nodded. And Honou nudged his sharp muzzle against Inari’s hand, seeking a caress from her soft hands too.

***

So the bond between your house and the sea is broken?

The smoky voice, simmering with heat, startled Hotaru. Looking round, he saw that Kurika, his fire shikigami, had materialized in his chamber.

It was a worthless bond, anyway. You have me now. And I’m more powerful than any of the dragons of the sea.

You flatter yourself. Hotaru gazed at Kurika, who, although in human form, was still radiating a faint fiery shimmer. Where have you been?

Obeying your orders. Was that a glimmer of rebellion in his flame-flecked eyes? You told me to keep away until the festival was over.

You were not only away, you were very far away. Hotaru was beginning to realize that he would have to find a way to control Kurika more effectively; the shikigami was beginning to act as willfully as he had when he first set him free.

Inari was here. Kurika’s voice hardened with hatred and the room suddenly grew darker. Hotaru sensed a crackle of fiery energy emanating from the shikigami’s mortal form and a shiver of fear stirred deep inside him. Am I losing control? He steeled himself, knowing he would have to re-assert his power over his volatile creature. If he didn’t show him who was master, matters could swiftly get out of hand again. So I followed her.

That was wrong of you. Hotaru adjusted the spare pair of spectacles he had been obliged to wear; his favorite pair had been washed away when Lord Kaito pushed him into the sea. Above all, you must not draw attention to yourself.

I haven’t forgiven the wrong Inari did me. I never will. His shikigami’s voice grew harsh with resentment. She condemned me to a living death. Years without number in agony, pinned through the body by that cursed sword, imprisoned beneath her shrine on my own mountain.

And, as I promised when I released you, I will restore your mountain to you. Don’t spoil everything by acting too hastily. Hotaru watched the ominous flicker of dark flame in the shikigami’s eyes. Kurika was dangerous; keeping him in check was a constant drain on his own powers.

You have your wish. You’ve ousted your brother and been named emperor. Was Kurika mocking him? Now I want my reward.

How little you’ve learned about mortal men, Kurika. We haven’t even returned to the capital yet. My brother’s supporters won’t take too kindly to his decision to step down in my favor. I may have to fight all the way to the Phoenix Throne.

Emperor of the Fireflies

Part I

Chapter 1

Slow down, Kaito!

Kai heard Masao calling to him as he streaked through the sea, exulting in his new-found freedom. He ignored him and pressed on through the dark waves.

Where are you heading?

The inky night sky was lightening as they swam onward, fading through luminous cobalt blue to a cloudy gray. It would soon be dawn.

We’ve been following the coast all night.

Kai slowed at last and gazed across at the distant coastline.

Have my instincts brought me home?

He thought he could just make out the indistinct outline of a cone-topped mountain, veiled in mist, and looming high beyond the cliff tops.

Is that Mount Sakuranbo? A shimmering white-scaled reptilian head rose above the waves. Kai blinked, still astounded to hear Masao’s voice issuing from the Ebb Dragon’s powerful jaws.

I think it is. His desperate desire to find Sakami again had brought him straight back to Kurozuro Castle, his home… and the goddess Inari’s shrine.

Inari promised me. She promised me that Sakami’s memories would be restored if I destroyed the Tide Jewels. I have to make sure that Sakami’s all right.

Be careful. If Lord Toshiro and the Akatobi fleet are still occupying the beach…

If, Kai repeated, hearing the uncertainty in the young Kite lord’s voice. What do you mean?

Flood’s wave won’t have just caused damage at the monastery; it must have smashed against the whole coastline.

Kai nodded; the thought had occurred to him too but he had pushed it to the back of his mind. I need to know what’s happened to the castle. To Takeru…and to Mother.

He struck out toward the cove. A wave washed over him, dragging him back. He shook the water from his whiskered head and set out again. This time it felt as if a strong current were tugging him back.

What’s this? Why can’t I –? He flailed and struggled, determined to break free of the powerful pull of the undertow.

What’s wrong? Masao’s voice carried to him faintly through the splash and gurgle of the waters.

Can’t – swim ashore. Kai turned toward Mount Sakuranbo once more and channeled all his strength into another attempt. He strained to force his long, supple dragon body toward land – but it was as if he was trying to swim through thick, churning mud; for all his frantic efforts, he made no progress at all. Frustration overwhelmed him and he threw back his head and a great cry of fury tore from deep inside him. What’s happening? What’s gone wrong?

Let me try. Masao set out toward the distant shore leaving a wake of spray. A few seconds later Kai saw a tremor spasm through the foam-white dragon’s body, almost as if he had encountered an invisible barrier and been repulsed. Ebb’s tail lashed the waves, smacking down and sending spatters of sea water fountaining into the air.

Ah! Kai heard him cry out in uncomprehending rage. Why can’t I – ugh, damn it all to hell!

As stubbornly as Kai labored toward land – and home – the more relentlessly the current tugged him back out to sea. Feeling every muscle in his new dragon form stretched to its limit, he called to Masao, Something’s forcing me back.

Me too, came back the strained reply, Masao’s strong voice breathless with the same struggle.

Now what do we do? Kai lay back, floating on the gentle tide. How do we change back?

The seal. Masao had raised his left arm out of the water and was examining its white scales minutely, even down to the three talons where his fingers had been. Where’s the Sacrifice seal?

I can’t see it anywhere, Kai said. And the possibility that there might no longer be any way to change back began to sink in.

Inari hasn’t abandoned us, has she?

He reared up out of the water and called out her name. Inari! Lady Inari!

His voice echoed back to him, the uncomprehending bellow of a monstrous creature in pain.

But I did exactly as you asked, Kai cried. I gave the Tide Jewels back to the sea. So what’s gone wrong? What’s happened to me? He looked down at the shimmer of sea-blue scales on his transfigured body and lashed his tail hard against the waves. "Did you lie to me? All his pent-up anger and confusion came pouring out unchecked; he forgot that he was addressing a goddess and opened his dragon maw wide to roar his frustration aloud, raging like a storm wind across the bay. Why can’t I go home?"

The waves began to froth at the sound of his fury, surging higher as they rolled in toward the shore.

Am I trapped out here forever? All Kai wanted was to be back on land. He had left so much unfinished. He needed to be sure that his young squire Susumu had escaped the Kites’ clutches. He needed to make certain that his injured brother Takeru had not suffered another relapse. And above all, he longed to see Sakami. You tricked me, Lady Inari. Down came his tail again, sending another surge of water roaring toward the shore. You told me it would save Sakami. Now I can’t even get close to the land.

Stop, Kaito! A woman’s voice, clear and commanding, rang out across the raging waves. A gleam of soft light illumined the top of the cliffs, high above the sea caves where the rocky promontory projected far out into the bay. Do you want to cause another flood?

He looked up and saw a white-robed woman gazing down at him, her eyes dark and forbidding against her translucent skin. The strands of her long black hair stirred like fronds of waterweed in the turbulent breeze off the sea. Lady Inari, the rice goddess, the one who had begged him to destroy the Tide Jewels.

Why am I trapped in this dragon body? And why can’t I come any closer to land? His voice shook and he couldn’t control it. "I don’t even know who – or what – I am any more. Help me!"

She came floating toward him along the bleak spur of headland that jutted out into the sea.

Kaito, she said and her somber expression sent a chill through him, you did as I asked. And for that I thank you. You set the souls of my dearest Lord Kurozuro and Lord Akatobi free when you threw the Tide Jewels back into the sea. But it seems that the blood-bond I forged between your two clans and the Tide Dragons was not broken when the jewels dissolved.

Why not? Kai tried to steady his voice but her words only confirmed his worst suspicions.

You’ve taken their place. You’re both now inextricably linked to the flow and ebb of the tide.

Inextricably linked? Masao echoed and Kai heard the tremor of uncertainty in the Kite lord’s question. So Masao was as confused and angry as he. "Do we control the tides? Or do the tides control us?"

When you jumped into the sea, you activated the Sacrifice bond through the seals tattooed into your skin. Like your forebears, you have become one with the Tide Dragons, and can only return to the land in mortal form when the tide rises – or falls.

So I can only go ashore at high tide? Kai was struggling to make sense of this information.

And I at low tide? Masao asked. We can never go ashore together?

And as the tide turns, said Inari, you’ll be drawn back into the waves and become one with your bonded Tide Dragon again.

But without the Tide Jewels, how can we ever be set free? Kai raised one dragon claw imploringly to the goddess. Can’t you help us, Lady Inari?

A strange smile twisted her lips. Don’t you remember, Kaito? My duty is to protect the rice harvest. As Tide Dragons, you pose a threat to my crops.

But when you were Empress Himiko, you were the one who created the Tide Jewels, Kai began, determined not to let the goddess drift away, leaving them to their fate.

She turned on him, a cold light burning in her eyes. There will be no more Tide Jewels. You’ve seen the havoc they create. Just imagine if they fell into the hands of a power-crazed emperor what he might force you to do against your will: drown thousands of people and animals, flood the rice fields, and create years of famine and hardship for Cipangu and her enemies alike. Just like before.

So, no more Tide Jewels, Masao said, but there must be some other way to set us free? Kai sensed that he was trying to make sense of what had happened to them. Or are we nothing but unnecessary second sons, sacrificed to the sea to uphold the honor of our clans?

If you really loved Lord Kurozuro when you were empress, Kai burst out, unable to hold back any longer, then why inflict the curse on us? There must be some way to break it.

There are people on land waiting for us. People who need us, Masao added, equally vehemently. The new emperor, Hotaru, used the Tide Jewels to depose his brother and seize power. He’s dangerous.

And he’s the one who set Kurika free, Kai said, remembering that Inari had once fought Kurika and bound him beneath Sakuranbo Mountain. If he has the skill to control Kurika, it won’t be long before he discovers a way to control us too.

Do you think I’m not aware of that fact? And Inari turned away again, as if she had nothing more to say to them.

Kurika is just as much of a threat to your rice fields as we are. Kai was desperate to keep her attention. If you set us free, we will help you destroy him.

She paused. You, Kaito? She gave a small, dry laugh. What possible use would you be? Kurika is far stronger than you. Her barely concealed derision chilled him. If she wasn’t even prepared to consider the possibility, who else could they turn to?

The sacred sword. Masao’s voice came from further away. The tide was going out, and Kai realized that Flood was slowly moving further away from the shore with it. "The katana you used to imprison Kurika beneath the mountain."

Shattered into a thousand fragments, she said over her shoulder with a little shrug of resignation.

I know a master swordsmith, Masao cried out. His name is Kinkiyo. If we collect the scattered fragments, he could re-forge the blade.

If you can find them. . . Her parting words floated back to them like the solitary cry of a seabird.

Don’t go, Lady Inari! But Kai’s plea was born on the sea breeze to an empty cliff top; the goddess had vanished. Did she agree? he asked. Now that she had gone, he suddenly felt exhausted, all fight fast seeping from him. Masao?

There was no reply.

Kai swiveled his head around to try to make out what had become of Masao. And as the inexorable pull of the outgoing tide tugged Kai further out to sea, away from the contours of the familiar shoreline, he saw a white-haired man crawl out of the receding tide. Naked, water streaming from his body, the distant figure pushed himself up to hands and knees on the damp sand. As Kai stared, he saw color flood into the man’s long white hair, turning it as dark as if someone had poured a pot of ink over his head. The man got to his feet, raising his arms to examine himself, checking that his body was unharmed and intact.

Look, Kai! Masao’s voice carried faintly to him across the rushing sound of the waves. He was pointing excitedly at himself. It worked!

So Inari told us the truth in that respect…

I’m going to reconnoiter.

Be careful, Kai called after him even as the tide continued to carry him away from the shoreline. The last thing either of them wanted was to be recognized; they were fugitives from the new emperor’s justice.

Wait there for me. Masao turned away and Kai saw him go around the rocky spar, walking over the wet sands exposed by the low tide, making toward Kurozuro Bay.

Wait? What else is there for me to do but wait? I’m powerless to help anyone out here. Overcome by a deep and aching tiredness, Kai lay back in the water and closed his eyes, letting the waves lull him to sleep.

Chapter 2

The smell of burning still permeated the clean sea air, rising from the smoking ruins of the Tide Dragon temple. Shocked worshippers and pilgrims wandered like lost souls through the monastery grounds, talking in hushed voices of the extraordinary events: the terrifying appearance of the Tide Dragons; the miraculous shower of rain that had extinguished the blazing temple…

Naoki, heir to the clan of the Red Kites, forced his way through the milling crowds. He had made his half-brother Masao a last promise and he felt duty-bound to fulfill it.

The monastery infirmary was filled with the walking wounded; Naoki hesitated on the threshold, shocked to see so many casualties. Master Seishi’s assistants were working their way systematically through the queue of villagers and monks waiting patiently for their turn. And yet as Naoki scanned the crowded room, looking for Master Seishi, he saw that most of the injuries were not life-threatening: some patients had inhaled smoke; most had minor burns from falling debris.

Please join the queue, said one of the apprentice healers as he hurried past to the pharmacy.

Where’s Master Seishi? Naoki demanded. The apprentice stopped and peered at him.

L-Lord Naoki? Is that you?

Naoki realized that, unshaven and unkempt from the past days’ travails, he didn’t look much like a lord; but he heard the villagers begin to repeat his name in awed tones and to nudge one another.

I’ll fetch him straight away. The apprentice pushed his way back into the crush and returned a little while later with Master Seishi.

Naoki felt a pang of guilt on seeing the monastery healer; he was more than aware that he owed him his life, and there he was, planning on taking him away from his duties tending to the injured. He bowed low.

What do you want with me, Lord Naoki? Master Seishi’s expression was guarded, the light in his eyes cool and shrewd. We’re very busy, as you can see. And I’m one healer short, as you are well aware.

Kai. Naoki bowed again, silently acknowledging the fact. I’m sorry to interrupt your work. He paused, searching for the right words that might persuade Master Seishi to help him. But could you take a look at my retainer? He’s a healer too – and he’d be here, helping you, if he hadn’t been taken ill himself.

Master Seishi considered this. An Akatobi healer? he said guardedly. Where is he?

In the guest rooms. His majesty has been good enough to let him rest there.

Has his majesty not asked his personal physician to take care of him? Seishi said, one eyebrow raised in mild disapproval.

I believe his personal physician is busy attending to the courtiers. Naoki had no idea if this was true or not; he just wanted Seishi to assess Yūgiri’s condition, not one of Hotaru’s household.

Lead the way then, my lord.

As Naoki went ahead through the flourishing herb garden, he could not help remembering watching Kai at work tending the plants…and their first awkward exchanges. Even then I knew you were good-hearted, Kai. So unlike me…

I see you’ve made a good recovery, Master Seishi said as they crossed into the main courtyard. There were imperial guards milling around, but no one stopped them.

Thanks to you, Sensei. I owe you for saving my life.

Then repay me by getting an imperial pardon for Kai, Seishi-sensei said softly.

Naoki shot a hasty look around to see if anyone were close enough to have overheard. No one appeared to be paying them any attention;

I’ll do what I can, he said under his breath.

Two imperial guards were on duty outside Hotaru’s rooms; they crossed spears as Naoki approached.

Who’s this, my lord? one demanded, gazing suspiciously at Master Seishi.

This is Seishi-sensei, the chief healer in the monastery. I’ve brought him to tend to my retainer.

Go through. The spears were uncrossed and Naoki led Seishi into the emperor-elect’s quarters. Hotaru’s servants bowed as they entered, respectfully making way for them to pass.

It was, of course, highly unusual for a member of the imperial family to admit one of his lord’s retainers to his private rooms – but Hotaru had given the order that Yūgiri Hisui was to be cared for in seclusion and no one had dared to argue with the emperor-elect’s decision.

And I know all too well why you’ve taken this action, Prince Hotaru. Naoki pushed open the screen to the side chamber and ushered Master Seishi inside. Yūgiri is your sole connection with the Tide Dragons and there’s no way you’re going to let him out of your jurisdiction.

At first Naoki could only see a rolled futon, a large lacquered trunk, and a gilded birdcage which contained an elegant long-tailed bird with plumage as white as the first snows of winter.

Then he spotted Yūgiri sitting hunched in the furthest corner of the little room, hugging his knees to him, his head lowered so that his face was hidden by his long, pale hair. A bowl of water with a cloth had been set beside him but he appeared not to have touched it.

Yūgiri, Naoki said, this is Master Seishi. He’s come to help you.

There’s no point, Yūgiri said without looking up, his voice muffled. No one can help me. It’s too late.

Seishi knelt down in front of Yūgiri. There may be something I can do to alleviate your suffering.

Yūgiri slowly raised his head to stare at Seishi and Naoki saw the monk recoil. In truth, he also found it difficult to look into the young shaman’s face. For, staining the purity of Yūgiri’s ivory eyes, a drop of crimson could be seen in each, like a bloody tear welling up around the pupil.

How did this happen? Master Seishi asked, gently slipping one hand beneath Yūgiri’s chin so that he could take a closer look. I’ve never seen anything like this before.

"It’s onmyōdo," Yūgiri said in a flat tone. Naoki tensed, wondering what else Yūgiri was about to say; surely he wouldn’t dare reveal Hotaru as his abuser? But Yūgiri didn’t give any further explanation and Master Seishi didn’t press him.

Are you in any pain? Seishi was checking Yūgiri’s pulse, carrying out the standard observations that Naoki remembered him doing every day in the Infirmary.

Yūgiri merely answered with a twist of the lips that might have passed for a warped smile.

Is your sight affected?

Yūgiri hesitated. Everything is tinged with a blood-red haze.

I can do little other than alleviate the discomfort. I’ll send over a soothing tincture that you can use to bathe your eyes.

The screen was suddenly pushed aside and the emperor-elect came in, followed by his page, Kobai.

I gave orders that no one was to be admitted. Hotaru glared at Naoki. And who might you be? He turned to Master Seishi.

My name is Seishi; I am the monastery’s healer, replied Seishi, unruffled, bowing.

I brought Master Seishi to Yūgiri, Naoki said hastily, not wanting the healer to take the blame for his actions.

Because the healer is unable to heal himself? Hotaru said lightly. But we mustn’t keep Master Seishi from tending to his other patients; I’m sure there are many who need his skills more than we do.

I’ll take my leave, then. Seishi bowed again and made to withdraw.

I’ll see you out, Naoki offered but Hotaru shook his head. When Seishi had gone, Hotaru turned to Kobai who had been observing silently and said, We are not to be disturbed.

Kobai bowed and left and the instant he was gone, Hotaru drew a slip of paper from his sleeve and fixed it to the door-screen. Naoki caught a glimpse