The Kami Prophecy Omnibus Books 4-6: The Kami Prophecy

By A.C. Ward

Omnibus: 500+ pages and three thrilling YA fantasy novels.

 

The cost can never be too high to protect the one she loves.

 

Shou's love for Masaru, lord of the Date clan, proves that they've been wrong about the prophecy of the gods all along. When the kami king shields her, Shou finally understands exactly what the kami has been seeking. Faced with all that she once desired, Shou instead wants to fight against the gods.

 

Driven by her hope to save the one she loves, Shou goes where even the kami cannot follow. But the humans seeking divine rule are as dangerous as the kami king. Further betrayal awaits Shou. And a final decision as the prophecy is unveiled. For with the death of the kami king, another must rise to take his place.

 

Will the chosen one veer from her destined path?

 

Books 4-6 of The Kami Prophecy, a YA series full of action, romance, and adventure, all set in a fantasy world inspired by Japanese mythology.

• Language: English
• Publisher: A.C. Ward
• Release date: Dec 15, 2022
• ISBN: 9798215150184

A.C. Ward

A.C. Ward is a little worried that her internet search history is on some sort of watch list. For her writing she has researched demonic rituals, exorcism, and lethal stab wounds. Her next work in process is only making it worse. A.C, lives with her husband, daughter, and various pets – dog, cat, gecko, fish, and tarantula. When she’s not writing she’s watching Netflix or rereading her favorite manga. She’d love to hear from her fans. You can contact her at [e-mail].

Book preview

The Kami Prophecy Omnibus

Books 4-6

A.C. Ward

Shuriken of Honor

Arrow of Justice

Chain of Loyalty

Copyright © 2021 A.C. Ward

All rights reserve.

Front Cover Image by JJ Design and Creations

No parts of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the copyright owner.

This book is sold subject to the condition that it shall not, by way of trade or otherwise, be lent, resold, hired out, or otherwise circulated without the publisher’s prior consent in any form of binding or cover other than that in which it is published and without a similar condition including this condition being imposed on the subsequent purchaser. Under no circumstances may any part of this book be photocopied for resale.

This is a work of fiction. Any similarity between the characters and situations within its pages and places or persons, living or dead, is unintentional and coincidental.

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Contents

The Kami Prophecy

1. Chapter 1

2. Chapter 2

3. Chapter 3

4. Chapter 4

5. Chapter 5

6. Chapter 6

7. Chapter 7

8. Chapter 8

9. Chapter 9

10. Chapter 10

11. Chapter 11

12. Chapter 12

13. Chapter 13

14. Chapter 14

15. Chapter 15

16. Chapter 16

17. Chapter 17

18. Chapter 18

19. Chapter 19

20. Chapter 20

21. Chapter 21

22. Chapter 22

23. Chapter 23

24. Chapter 1

25. Chapter 2

26. Chapter 3

27. Chapter 4

28. Chapter 5

29. Chapter 6

30. Chapter 7

31. Chapter 8

32. Chapter 9

33. Chapter 10

34. Chapter 11

35. Chapter 12

36. Chapter 13

37. Chapter 14

38. Chapter 15

39. Chapter 16

40. Chapter 17

41. Chapter 18

42. Chapter 19

43. Chapter 20

44. Chapter 21

45. Chapter 22

46. Chapter 23

47. Chapter 24

48. Chapter 25

49. Chapter 26

50. Chapter 27

51. Chapter 28

52. Chapter 29

53. Chapter 30

54. Chapter 31

55. Chapter 32

56. Chapter 1

57. Chapter 2

58. Chapter 3

59. Chapter 4

60. Chapter 5

61. Chapter 6

62. Chapter 7

63. Chapter 8

64. Chapter 9

65. Chapter 10

66. Chapter 11

67. Chapter 12

68. Chapter 13

69. Chapter 14

70. Chapter 15

71. Chapter 16

72. Chapter 17

73. Chapter 18

74. Chapter 19

75. Chapter 20

76. Chapter 21

77. Chapter 22

78. Chapter 23

79. Chapter 24

80. Chapter 25

81. Chapter 26

82. Chapter 27

83. Chapter 28

84. Chapter 29

85. Chapter 30

86. Chapter 31

87. Chapter 32

88. Chapter 33

89. Chapter 34

Also By A.C. Ward

About the Author

The Kami Prophecy

After light is cast on the dragon-marked heirs of the kami

Seek the island’s blessing during a single decade night

Accept the dark passage through the shades

Approach the slithering descent of the caverns

Confront the lady among that which she tends

Discern through the dual eyes internal

Stray within the shadowy spring beneath

Earned with each successful trial passing

To rise from the ashes and into a jeweled tier hereafter.

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Chapter 1

Shou gazed into the water where she had nearly drowned. It was the only courtyard throughout the Sanada castle with a pond, and the sandy bottom was not very deep. Just deep enough for her lips to not reach the surface as the kami Queen held her down.

I know you’re waiting, Shou said to the surface. No ripple skewed her reflection, no hint at the otherworldly being. Come for me. Let’s end things.

Silence surrounded her. The Queen did not come. She never did. Gods were too busy to respond to mere humans. In the distance, the Sanada soldiers could be heard at their practice. Yosuke, an heir of the clan, had them hard at work. He’d been nagging her more often lately to join them. The physical toil did help, but it was difficult to ignore how many moons had passed since she had left the Date clan.

Come now. You don’t really want to face her again.

Shou recognized the voice and felt the familiar presence even as his scent of oak and cloves reached her. Geki was a shinobi and sometimes managed to sneak up on her. Not as often as he would like.

Her hand brushed the feather tied to her waist, and she missed Makoto, the only friend she had had growing up on the island, though the tengu would never call them friends. She was beginning to let herself believe he wasn’t her only friend any longer.

I remember that queen. Geki gave a mock shudder as he leaned against the wooden railing. My rule is to never save someone without getting paid, and you still owe me for last time.

I haven’t forgotten. Shou turned her back on the pond to cross to him. She sat on the stairs beside his leg. Silence fell between them. She’d become used to the shinobi in the time she’d spent with the Sanada clan. He came and went as he pleased.

You’re brooding again.

I’m not, she said, but it wasn’t true. Each day additional weight pressed on her. The Sanada castle was more open than the one she’d been in before, but for someone who’d barely had any shelter on an island full of kami, it was still lacking. And even with all the courtyards, she preferred the other home she had briefly known.

Geki smirked before raising his hands above his head to stretch, his kimono sleeves falling down his wrists. I snuck up on you. You know what that means.

No, you didn’t. Her gaze brushed over the metal strapped to his forearm. She stood and reached for his arm.

He let her capture it, a soft, Be careful, darling, slipping from his lips.

Her finger froze before touching the strangely shaped star. When she lifted her gaze to his, she stilled even further at the eyes fixed on her. His were a light gray, but they darkened in rare moments, reminding her of someone else from a time before.

His smile returned, and it was as if the dark expression never existed. "Shuriken can be sharp."

Are they a weapon of some sort? She released her hold on him, but he didn’t shake his sleeve to cover them.

More a distraction, but they can do a bit of damage. Would you like me to show you? Geki asked.

No fair, I was going to request her time, Yosuke called out. His strides were long and forceful, bringing him down the corridor faster than one of his size should move. The Sanada heir had developed his muscles honestly, with steady weapons training. After her time within the castle, she could now swing the sword given to her with one hand, though she preferred the control of two.

You need me, Yosuke? she asked. The directness of her gaze brought a flush to his cheeks that she’d become all too familiar with.

You’re red again, Geki said with a chuckle.

Shut up, Geki, Yosuke muttered as he looked away from her. He cleared his throat. I hadn’t seen you yet today, Shou. Didn’t expect to find you here. He frowned at the small pond beyond. I thought we agreed you wouldn’t come here anymore.

I’m sorry, Shou said. She was likely to worry him in the future. She glanced down at the silver snake bangle on her wrist. It hadn’t hurt the snake kami. She remembered when she had asked Yuki to pretend to be the queen. It had been a test to her nerves, but ended with him skewered on the Sanada heir’s spear. Illusions were Yuki’s specialty; that one had simply disappeared, but he also hadn’t agreed to repeat the incident.

Come on, I know just what you need. Yosuke reached for her hand but froze in the act. His hand clenched, and he let it drop to his side without touching her even as his cheeks flamed further. His eyes darted around. Physical stuff will get your mind off things. It always does for me.

Oh, little lord, Geki said, shaking his head. Do you realize how that sounds?

Th-that’s not what I meant at all! Yosuke snapped, his eyes flying to the ninja.

Shou looked at each of them, her brow furrowing. Often the two of them seemed to have their own language. Their friendship was an unusual pairing. I don’t understand. It sounds fine. We practice with swords all the time. She looked up at Yosuke. Unless you wanted to try something else?

I don’t! Yosuke shouted.

Geki smirked at him. Inside voice, little lord. He tapped Shou’s nose with a finger before she realized his intention. We’ll practice that something else a bit later then, shall we?

Yosuke’s mouth fell open. Geki!

The shinobi had already pulled his typical disappearing act.

Don’t forget, Shou is under Sanada protection! he called after him, turning his gaze a few different directions, unsure where the shinobi had gone. He whirled to Shou, leaning in to grab her shoulders. You don’t have to do anything with him, you know that?

She patted one of his large hands where it held her. But I want to.

He looked away. W-well… I don’t think…

She watched him swallow, concerned by his anxious expression. Is something wrong with him teaching me about his shuriken?

Oh! Yosuke’s eyes closed as he took a deep breath. No, no, that’s fine. He started down the corridor. I’ll get the swords. His steps halted, and he looked to the water. You’re coming, right?

Shou ran to catch up.

All Yosuke required to focus was a weapon in his hand. It wasn’t long before sparring took all of her concentration. When they had first begun working together, she’d been caught off guard by his training technique. Yosuke held none of his strength back. He felt it would be a disservice. She had found out first hand on the island how difficult it was to face a larger opponent. Her matches with Yosuke prepared her should it happen again.

Her teacher before, Katashi, had been holding back more than she’d realized. He’d been difficult to understand, always ten steps ahead of everyone else. Yosuke was much more reactive, but that made his finesse with a weapon even more natural.

She’d learned to avoid most of his thrusts, using speed and his own strength against him. Their bouts had become more of a dance for her, trying to predict what would come next.

The other soldiers stopped their own training to watch the matches. Cheers were not one-sided, though all of the Sanada clan had a soft spot for the youngest heir. The first time they had sparred, she’d been unable to concentrate with all the voices. She doubted she’d ever become used to the noise of a castle after ten years with no one but an often-absent tengu. During the fights, she’d forced herself to adapt, not ignoring but concentrating only on what was closest.

Yosuke’s foot shifted the smallest bit. It allowed her to lunge forward, too close for the swing of his blade to reach her. The vines around her wrist, ever waiting, latched around his foot, and she yanked. Her foot slipped forward on the dirt, and she went down with him, landing on his chest with a thump. She shifted her sword to hover across his neck.

Yield! Shou cried with a triumphant smile. Her chest heaved as she struggled to draw in a deep breath instead of panting. She expected him to be proud, as he always was when she performed well.

Instead, his eyes darted away from her face and scarlet colored not only his cheeks, but his ears and down his neck as well. I yield, he said, clearing his throat from the choked-out words. Can you g-get off?

Sure. Shou scrambled to her feet. As the adrenaline wore off, the laughter of the crowd penetrated her consciousness. She frowned at the soldiers, not liking that they would laugh at Yosuke.

The closest soldier pointed down at Yosuke. Look at his cheeks. Ripe apples!

Yosuke sat up, staring at the dirt. All right, everyone, as you were. Unless you all want to carry bags of rice as training again.

Dissent scattered through the men as the crowd broke and they returned to their duties.

Shou held a hand out to Yosuke, but he didn’t see it.

Did I do something wrong? she asked, trying to peer into his face.

N-no. It’s nothing. He slid the sleeve of his kimono across his sweaty face, streaking the dirt that clung to him.

Then why won’t you look at me? Enough kami had ignored her during her time on the island for her to recognize when she was being avoided.

His eyes finally lifted, though the stain didn’t fade from his cheeks. I just forget sometimes, that’s all. That you’re a… He waved his hand at her as if that explained it.

Shou’s brow drew together, puzzled. A what?

So this is where you two have been hiding, Lord Nobusuke said from the corridor.

Shou bowed to the older Sanada heir as was proper. Lord Nobusuke had taken over her etiquette training from where Katashi left off. She still had a long way to go. Good day, my lord.

It is a fine one at that. He looked up at the sky as if seeing it for the first time. That may have been the case as he was the true heir and therefore took care of the day-to-day running of the clan, as Lord Masaru did with the Date.

Shou felt a twinge at the thought of the man she hadn’t seen in so long.

Did my brother not pass along my instructions to you? Lord Nobusuke asked.

She turned to Yosuke, who ran a hand through his hair, knocking off more dust. Sorry, I forgot, Nobu.

It looks like you took the opportunity to impart different training than what I had in mind today. The older heir’s eyes danced as he shifted them to her. And do I hear correctly? You bested poor Yosuke?

She looked at the man in question, feeling unsure from all the reactions whether she could lay claim to the win.

Shou has become very skilled, Yosuke said. It’s a good thing, with the enemies she has.

It may still be too soon to call them that. Nobusuke’s gaze became thoughtful. We mere humans cannot understand the purpose behind the kami’s actions.

As wise as she found the true Sanada heir, Shou disagreed. It had been very clear what the queen’s purpose was.

Besides, if the prophecy is true, as it seems to be, Shou herself has a path before her as heir to the kami. That is what I was hoping to discuss with you.

Did you find the book that you told me about? Shou asked, her heart lifting at the thought.

Lord Nobusuke smiled at her. It was delivered today. The book is in my receiving rooms.

I’ll come at once. Shou took the steps needed to hop onto the wooden boards of the corridor.

Very well. Lord Nobusuke held a hand out for her to precede him. He looked over his shoulder. Besides, this will allow my poor brother to recover from his excitement.

Yosuke groaned at his brother’s chuckle and flopped onto his back in the dirt.

Chapter 2

Masaru pulled his katana free from the fallen soldier as he turned to the next. Cries rang out around him, both from his own men and the other army. Or armies, really. His scouts had failed to inform him of the second clan lying in wait. Likely on purpose, as he didn’t doubt his mother had a hand in the ambush. Perhaps she had even helped to form the new alliance between the Shiba and Fuijiwara clans. If only she would use the same maneuvers to unite the Date clan instead of continuing to splinter them apart.

Blood splattered near Masaru’s good eye with his next kill, and he swiped at the streak with his fingers.

A rider bore down on him. Luckily it was one of his own and not the enemy taking advantage of the lapse.

My lord, I have news from the north! the soldier cried out. His eyes widened in fear as he stared at Masaru.

It was all the warning he needed to turn and plunge his sword into yet another opponent.

From a few feet away, Lord Ogden grunted in acknowledgement. Keep your wits about you, my lord. The enemy is numerous today. The older retainer didn’t keep his eye on Masaru for long, cutting down as many soldiers as he could with a bellow.

Masaru lifted his katana to parry a blade, two more strikes following before he could dispatch the man. Speak your news quickly, he told the waiting scout as he scanned for more, barely finding time to pull in a breath.

It’s Lord Katashi. His army has been surrounded.

Masaru put more force behind his next lunge, his blade sinking deep as he battled a sense of panic. There shouldn’t be enough opposing forces to surround them. His katana wouldn’t withdraw from the dying man, so Masaru used his hands to catch the next enemy’s weapon, snatching it from the man in order to follow through with a returning thrust.

It seems the Hojo sent more reinforcements, my lord. The scout hung his head at the admission.

Masaru swung the confiscated blade at the soldier behind the scout, slicing across a neck this time. He ignored the resulting gurgle, glaring at his own man, though he couldn’t remember the lad’s name. Draw your weapon. The field is swarming with the enemy.

His mind continued to work the problem. For all he knew, the scout was his mother’s minion as well, telling him falsehoods to add to the mayhem. Katashi had been with him since he was a boy, long before the most recent months when he had become the Date daimyo. His retainer hadn’t wanted to fight separately, and was angry that he wouldn’t be at Masaru’s side, but the idea to divide and conquer had also been his suggestion. Their intel had supported the strategy to split their forces. Too bad it had all been lies.

The next soldier Masaru faced forced him back a step, closer to the treeline beyond. Masaru eyed it as he planted his feet, adding one more death to his count. He watched the man fall. It was too bad both the Shiba and the Fuijiwara had withdrawn from his offer of uniting the Oshu clans. Their soldiers were poorly trained, though greater in number. They may win the day, but not without hefty casualties.

The barest of sensation warned him in time to jerk to the side. A metal object flew past, embedding into the enemy. Masaru turned to the forest, scanning for the threat but seeing nothing. It wasn’t unusual to experience—if a shinobi was targeting him.

A winged figure darted past him from above, smacking the next thrown weapon to the side as he plunged within the trees. It wasn’t long before the tengu returned, dropping a darkly clothed figure at his feet.

He is alone, Makoto said as he flipped his wings to rest along his back.

Masaru was relieved the ninja had brown eyes instead of a light gray. Shou had become fond of the shinobi at the Sanada castle. The thought of her was a moment of distraction he could not afford.

The ninja struck out with a knife, the blade gleaming with liquid in the sun.

Makoto stepped in again, his strength twisting the man’s arm at an impossible angle before the blade fell.

Masaru did not need to ask who had put a bounty on his head. He already knew. He raised his katana with a sigh. You chose the wrong contract.

Killing me changes nothing. Another will be sent in my place.

Then I will kill you all, Masaru told the man, following through with his sword. He took no pleasure in the act, tired to the depths of his soul. He had nothing to show for all his efforts since becoming daimyo. At each step, he felt like he was back at the beginning.

Makoto, go to Katashi’s army, he ordered the tengu.

The kami’s beak lifted. He didn’t appear happy, but he bowed anyway. As you command, heir. The tengu’s wings spread, and he leaped for the sky.

Masaru turned back to the battle in time to see a spear swung at his head. The hilt clanged against the metal of his helmet, sending it flying as he fell.

My lord! he heard in the distance, trying to blink the dots from his vision in order to focus on the spear shifting above him. It reminded him of the Sanada heir, and his thoughts turned to what he had lost.

Lord Ogden’s blade sliced through the soldier. The spear fell from the man’s grip before it could find its mark.

In the many battles that had followed his rise as daimyo, Masaru’s luck had held. It was as if the kami protected him, only he had no desire to owe anything to those fickle creatures. Not after they tried to kill the person more important to him than his own blood.

Masaru found the helmet with the crescent moon and reached for it. Shou had always hated his helmet. He tried to push the thought aside, starting to rise to his feet.

No, stay down! Lord Ogden shouted, his weight slamming Masaru back into the ground.

A sound he wasn’t expecting rang out, the bangs in close succession before a pause. They were reloading.

None of the intelligence mentioned they had guns. Masaru’s lips thinned as he looked to his fallen soldiers.

The enemy had led them into the trap well. The path between the sea and the mountain created the perfect funnel into their weapons.

This isn’t good, my lord. Ogden grunted as he shoved himself up. I’ll fight to my last breath, but it is pointless against those blasted things unless we get close enough. And that’s not going to happen here.

The bodies before them took shape and grew faces. Men who hadn’t deserted the Date when an untried lord rose as daimyo. Many of whom lay dead around him. We push forward. Their deaths won’t be for nothing.

Hands gripped both sides of his face, which was vulnerable without his helmet. I won’t follow a lord bent on destruction, Lord Ogden warned. Those lost are lost. Losing more won’t avenge them. Fighting another day will. He released him, bending to pick up the sword he’d dropped when he’d tackled Masaru out of the path of the gunfire.

Masaru stared around at his men, seeing the fear and defeat in their faces. His retainer was right. He reached for his helmet, shoving it on his head though it was slightly bent from the blow. He called the retreat.

The older man slapped him on his shoulder. That is a tough lesson, young lord. Many leaders do not learn it without even heftier losses than today’s. He grabbed the discarded spear, testing its grip. Now go on. The army is yours to lead, even in retreat.

Masaru looked toward the enemy armies, which lifted their guns again. Most of his men had begun to cover the distance back, but they weren’t out of range. I fight until we’re all together.

Lord Ogden glared at him. That’s the one thing you cannot do. You’re the lord now. You, above anyone, must live. He added a frown to the words. Don’t make me regret following you.

Masaru stared at him, seeing a resolve in the man’s eyes.

I’ll take rear guard, Lord Ogden said with a grunt, turning to face the enemy. Now, go.

A weight pressed on Masaru as he turned from the man, gathering those that were left. All but the soldiers that belonged to Lord Ogden. They bowed their heads to him as they joined their lord.

He didn’t watch the advance. Lord Ogden’s bellowing war cry echoed in his ears as he fled.

Chapter 3

Shou clutched the book against her chest as she slid the door to her room shut behind her. The Sanada had allowed her to keep the rooms assigned to the Date when she had first visited as a page. Every time she entered, she thought of Masaru. She’d tried to argue that the rooms were too big for her, but Lord Nobusuke wouldn’t budge on the issue. He claimed it suited her position as daughter to the Hojo daimyo. It was a title that didn’t fit her at all.

On the island, she’d focused on survival and tried to become closer to the kami. In the world run by humans, those memories became harder to clutch on to. The book’s weight shifted as she turned. She caught it and placed it on the nearby desk.

Jin, a kami that resembled a cross between a frog and a turtle, shifted in his favorite resting place, curled in the cushion before the desk. It was where he could be found when he was not playing with the Sanada children or ransacking the kitchen. The kappa acted amazed by human food, even after so long outside the kami realm. He was lucky Lord Nobusuke found the kami so intriguing.

More reading? Instead of reading, rest, Jin said in a murmur. You are too busy. Far too busy. Before she could respond, he appeared to drift off again.

Learning to read had been a challenge, and she still struggled with writing. She had memorized most of the symbols, but recreating them took more effort. The writing instrument was more fragile in her grip than any weapon she’d held. Nobusuke had sighed heavily the last time she admitted to snapping one in two.

She hadn’t needed to read or write on the island. Recently returned memories had shown her a time before, when she’d begun learning the things that now seemed so foreign.

Yuki, Shou called.

The silver bangle on her wrist shimmered. The snake kami rose to stand before her. He stretched his arms as his tail slithered behind him. You called, my pet?

She gave a firm nod. I’m ready tonight.

He frowned at her. It was the concerned look she’d begun to associate with the snake kami. Ever since he had failed her against the queen, he’d been different.

And not another of those memories you’ve been choosing for me, she warned. As much as it had been a joy to interact with her mother while she learned symbols, or was read to and played with, it was not what she was seeking. I don’t need to be babied. I want to understand my past, the real parts of it.

Everything I have shown you has been real. They’re your memories, simply forgotten.

She shook her head. If my childhood was all like that, it makes me ending up on the island harder to understand. You’ve already refused to show me what happened at the top of the mountain with the queen. Don’t withhold this, too.

Yuki’s eyes narrowed. I haven’t refused. I’m bound by the queen’s orders. His gaze fell from hers. You know that.

None of the kami can fight her orders. Jin spoke up from the desk, not asleep as she’d thought. No, fighting is impossible, even if it’s for you. The kappa turned his face away.

She brushed over the white scales along the snake’s arm, who had come closer. Sorry, it’s just frustrating to not remember. I know you can’t, Yuki. And I don’t blame either of you for before. She sighed, looking to the snake. Isn’t there anything you could have me relive that she didn’t lock away?

The command was clear. I can share nothing that has her in it. There was another emotion mixing with the regret on his face. Relief.

You didn’t know me then. I don’t blame you for taking my memories, you know that, right? She peered into his face.

His hand stroked her own where it rested on his arm. You’re a strange human.

She smiled. Makoto has been telling me that for as long as I can remember.

The kami got a bit of his spark back. Don’t lump me in with that tengu.

The kappa laughed from his spot.

Then don’t protect me like him, she countered.

A more natural serpentine smile spread across Yuki’s face. Very well. I did warn you. Remember that.

The room went black. She blinked, knowing her eyes were open. Waiting was always the hardest part. Lord Nobusuke had been trying to instill more patience in her, but she struggled with the concept. Action suited her better.

Something bumped her shin. Shou tripped, her hands hitting hard against the stairs before her. Her fingers appeared so small against the step.

Oh, little sparrow, did you hurt yourself? Her mother’s gentle warmth engulfed her, the scent of pine and lavender nearly overwhelming. Masaru rose in her thoughts, but she pushed the man away. Yuki’s ability to recreate memories deserved her focus, even though the scent reminded her of another.

Shou opened her mouth to deny her injury, but her mother pressed a finger against her lips. Shhh. Remember, we need to be quiet. The woman scanned the area.

It was as if the younger version of herself had not been aware of the surroundings before. Slowly, the wooden platform and walls came into focus, as well as the bells before her and parchment for prayers. A kami shrine. It made sense. Her mother had wanted her to seek the kami. She had been a firm believer, certain of their love even in death.

Shou doubted her mother had met any of the gods. Her hopes for her daughter to have a family among them had been too strong for her to have understood the creatures.

The woman carried her to the far corner of the platform, setting her on her feet. At the sound of horse hooves, she jerked her head up, her eyes narrowing. Remain here. I will not be long.

Her mother disappeared. Shou could sense her mother’s presence in the rafters above. It reminded her of how Geki often moved throughout the Sanada castle.

The child version of her stepped forward, but a sense of foreboding overwhelmed her, and Shou held back. To her surprise, the move separated her, the woman, from the child. She watched a small version of herself toddle out of the corner.

The horse drew closer, stopping at the bottom of the steps. Shou turned toward it but saw only darkness. Her memory was incomplete. The sound of steps on stairs came to her but she had no ability to see who was there.

She followed the other version of herself into the shrine. Parts of it were missing as well, the higher views. Being such a young child caused a height disadvantage. There was one thing she had seen: her father bowing before the statue of the queen. It was a fountain filled with a pool of water that also trickled down the gorgeous face no one would be able to forget.

It was fitting. What better way to worship a water kami than with water?

Like the shadow she had become, her mother dropped from above, blade flashing as she drove it into his back. Her father didn’t cry out as he fell into the fountain. His face did not lift from where it slid beneath the surface.

Shou’s chest tightened, as if striving for breath herself. She knew what it was like to drown.

The child version of herself let out a cry. Her mother’s head snapped up, her eyes widening. Oh, no… she whispered, her steps brisk as she lifted her daughter into her arms and fled the shrine.

The view left behind faded to darkness as the memory moved on. Shou followed them down the steps and toward the waiting woods. A light flashed from behind them, reflecting off her younger face. Turning, she took in the blue light blazing from the shrine at the same time that her mother did.

Kami, please don’t, her mother prayed, pulling her daughter tighter against her as she continued on.

It made since that the kami had interfered. The Hojo daimyo, her father, was very much alive in the present. He had killed Lord Teremune, Masaru’s father. All due to a sense of debt to the kami queen. A debt that began to take on a new light.

Shou tried to keep an eye on the shrine, but it faded as the child’s memory moved on.

That is far enough, Seika. Figures emerged from the trees, the black cloth hiding their faces similar to the kind Geki wore on his missions.

Shou’s eyes narrowed as she took in the shinobi. Her mother wore a similar expression as she shifted the child to one arm, reaching for her opposite hip with her freed hand.

It’s good of you to finally heed my messages, her mother said.

The ninja before her shook his head. It is for the village to decide when your job is done, not for you.

My sword has decided. The Hojo daimyo is dead, as I was instructed.

He laughed. Ah, but that was not the most recent order, was it? The village preferred you to stay within your assumed position. The ninja leaned in closer. It’s not every day a shinobi can infiltrate a clan to the extent you have. In more ways than one. He eyed the child in her arms in distaste.

Her eyes flashed. That’s not—

In the distance, a scream.

Besides, it seems your strike was not true. Your skills are slipping, Seika.

Her mother closed her eyes. That is not possible. Unless the kami intervened.

He chuckled. Even your gods abandon you. Take heart that the village continues to find you useful.

At least take the child, Seika said, holding her daughter out.

The shinobi recoiled. We will not. Your name for the child fits it well. She is much more sparrow than crow.

She belongs with her blood, her mother snapped, panic tightening her voice.

The child is half of the shadows and not even that has seeped through.

Her father will kill her.

And likely you if you have not returned to the castle as if you never left. Run along, Seika. You are well aware of how the village raises children.

Between one moment and the next, the shinobi dissolved into the trees.

Shou approached the mother and child. Her hand reached out, brushing along her own face. It seemed no matter which memory she entered, she was reminded that she had no place in the world. As if the dream had been waiting for the touch, her consciousness shifted, merging with the child.

Her mother pulled her closer, the scent of lavender wrapping around Shou and making her want to burrow against the woman she had never known. It will be all right. The kami have chosen you. They will be a fine family when they arrive to claim you. Seika scanned the surrounding woods. You will have no need to be a daughter of the shadows.

In the distance, horse hooves beat against the ground. Seika turned toward the sound. Still, I cannot understand their choices. May they intervene for you as well, to keep you safe. Her lips firmed as she shifted her daughter in her arms. Come, little sparrow, it is time to fly. They raced off into the trees.

Shou spread her arms wide, enjoying the movement of air. As with her flights in the arms of the tengu, it was easy to pretend to have wings. She blinked, and the room in the Sanada castle seeped in around her.

You’ve returned, Geki said from where he squatted against the far wall.

Vertigo ran through her at the switch from a child’s view to an adult’s. How long have you been waiting?

He shrugged along the wall. Your kami friend wouldn’t let me get any closer.

Yuki’s tail flicked behind him as his arms crossed. The memory was not for you, human.

Geki let his head fall back. I have no interest in the past. I came to see if you would like to train, but maybe you’re too tired now.

No, I doubt I’ll sleep. Shou pushed to her feet. She still had trouble sleeping indoors and found time outside helped her to settle. The ninja also wandered throughout the night when he wasn’t on his missions. His absences were less frequent than Makoto’s had been on the island, and shorter.

You don’t rest enough; no, you don’t, Jin said, eyeing her. Since he remained where he was, and there was nothing she could say to make him feel better, she let the words pass.

Geki was already beside her, that swiftness she admired no longer shocking. He smiled. To the roof, then, darling?

She nodded, but walked to the snake, taking his hand. Thank you, Yuki. You chose well.

The kami’s gaze switched from the ninja to her. I’m less certain. A shimmer surrounded him, and then a mist engulfed her arm. When it faded, the bangle was in place.

Geki lifted an eyebrow. I see our chaperone is tagging along.

It is better luck for one of us to be with you. He is usually the lucky one. It wasn’t often Jin sulked. Shou reached out a hand in invitation, transferring him to her shoulder where he settled against her.

She ran a finger over the silver bracelet. I like to have them close. Just in case.

Geki reached out to wrap his fingers around her other wrist.

No words were needed between them as they raced to the spot she considered theirs. She studied his stride, wishing she could find the missing piece to his speed. They climbed the tree together, hooking legs and arms over the reachable rafters until she pulled herself onto the roof without his help. She’d gotten better. The slight slant and slippery shingles were challenging, and she bit her lip as she followed him along a different path on the roof than before.

The tallest tree in one courtyard rose before them, the metal stars she’d studied before buried in the bark of an overhanging limb. He pulled one free, his fingers almost too fast.

She reached for his wrist, pulling the weapon closer to study it. Unlike Katashi, Nobusuke, or even Yosuke, Geki did not teach her with words. He used his own movements, deliberately slowing to show her how he gripped the sharp object, avoiding the pointy edges. She released him, and a flick of his wrist embedded the shuriken into the tree. Twice more, and she began to see a pattern. Geki moved back, allowing her to step forward and try her luck.

Jin hopped from her shoulder to the roof, preferring not to be jostled.

It took more strength than she anticipated to remove the object from the tree. A soft hiss slipped between her lips as it sliced her thumb. Geki did not rush to her side to inspect it. He just shook his head and watched.

The ninja often reminded her of her time spent with Makoto. She doubted the tengu or Geki would appreciate the comparison.

She mimicked his prior movements. The metal star did not puncture the tree on her first dozen tries. The next time she grabbed it, Geki reached around her from behind, moving her fingers slightly wider. He stepped away again. Her next throw hit the mark.

There you go, he said, lowering himself to the roof to lounge. His eyes slid closed. Now just a couple hundred more times.

He often appeared to be sleeping, but usually wasn’t. Shou had attempted to sneak up on him multiple times when he was in that position, but always failed.

The night passed, and the shuriken felt more comfortable in her grip. Her eyes drifted to where Geki rested.

You mentioned facing the kami queen earlier. I still owe you a favor for that. Have you figured out what you want?

A smile crossed the ninja’s face. His features were sharper than those of most other men she knew, but his smile softened them. I don’t dislike that eagerness, but I’m not ready to collect yet.

Oh, okay, she said. She rubbed her arm, the muscles aching, and continued to study the ninja.

You’re staring. His eyes hadn’t opened.

Her mind churned around the memory of the shinobi in the woods. May I ask you something?

He pushed himself to a sitting position, his light gray eyes bright in the moonlight. I’ll consider answering.

What was your childhood like? The words the ninja in her memory had spoken, about how the village raised children, wouldn’t leave her mind.

The shinobi do not treat children the same way other people do. He tilted his head, studying her. Your growing-up years were likely very similar to mine, on that island. What was it like?

She frowned. I spent all my time trying to find enough food, and shelter when it was needed. I didn’t speak much and had to defend myself against the kami.

There you go. Replace kami with shinobi, and we’re a perfect match.

His explanation made it seem like no matter her path, she would have been alone. She faced the tree, her muscles objecting when she threw the shuriken.

When she stepped forward to pull the weapon from the tree, Geki halted her progress with a hand on her wrist. That’s enough practice for tonight. He pulled the metal stars free himself, carefully dropping them onto her palm. These are yours.

A denial wanted to race from her lips. Geki watched her, as if expecting it. Thank you, she said instead.

He grunted, sprawling into the slant of the roof again. Now sit. I get tired watching all your effort.

She didn’t bother to mention his eyes had been closed most of the time. She lay next to him. Jin shifted to her chest, settling more comfortably there than on the shingles. She looked up at the moon, which was bright and full above them. She’d lost count of how many times it had gone through its cycles since she’d left Masaru. Too many.

What made you ask me that?

She pictured Seika holding her out as a child, begging for them to take her. Part of the memory tonight. My mother tried to give me to some shinobi in the woods outside of a shrine.

Geki sat up, leaning over her with a frown. What? She tried to send you to the village?

I think she was worried about my father. From what you said, it likely didn’t matter.

His eyes scanned hers, the frown not leaving his face. What shrine?

It had to be near the Hojo castle. The shrine had a fountain statue of the kami queen.

Geki let out a hum under his breath, his eyes narrowing. Then he flopped to his back, as if he’d never been interested.

What is it?

Nothing. Just explains a few things. He didn’t open his eyes again. I always said you had shinobi blood, didn’t I?

She nodded, though he couldn’t see it. He’d sense the movement, she was sure. Her mind churned, thinking of all the places she didn’t belong.

Rest, Geki ordered.

Sure, she said. They both knew she lied.

The hours passed in silence. Eventually, the sun rose above them, signaling the start of a new day.

Chapter 4

Masaru stood at the top of the steps to the castle, waiting. The rear guard had returned, and with them came the body of Lord Ogden.

He stared at the sheet covering the old man’s face, no prayer to the kami for his soul rising to his lips.

The man’s closest retainer came forward, bowing before him.

How? Masaru asked.

He turned back for some of the men. Took on ten soldiers at once and cut down most. It was the last’s blade that reached him before I did. Many more Date have returned from his sacrifice.

Masaru nodded to indicate that he understood. Lord Ogden had received his final wish: he died in battle, not in his bed. The thought did not prevent the heat from building in Masaru’s chest.

Many of the Date soldiers from the rear guard had survived, but not unscathed. See to it the men are treated and provided respite, he ordered.

Lord Date, we appreciate it, but will take our leave in a day’s time.

Lord Ogden’s men had remained in the castle since he had taken the title of daimyo. The older soldier’s insight had been invaluable. Masaru’s hands clenched at his sides. Ogden had held a special place at his side, as the first retainer whose loyalty Masaru’s own actions had earned. Katashi would always be with him, but their relationship had begun at Masaru’s father’s urging. It was more now, but the early taint on their bond still left a residue.

My lord, Lord Ogden’s son should hear the news and be able to put the lord to rest. The bowed retainer’s voice shook with the statement.

Masaru realized he’d been glaring down at the man unseeingly. He forced his hands to unclench and his face to smooth. I understand and approve. My anger was not at you, but at the losses we faced.

O-of course, the retainer stammered, but did not lift his head.

Masaru entered the keep. His reputation was becoming more burdensome as he came into his power. People scattered as he strode through the halls. He didn’t doubt they were whispering about his yokai eye, and his hand smoothed over his eyepatch, hidden behind the fall of hair that also covered the mark of the kami beneath it.

Their recent losses had made the rumors worse. Most of the Date believed that the kami were punishing the clan. The image of the kami queen rose in his mind. He had earned her wrath. Perhaps she did not feel that killing Lord Teremune had been compensation enough.

The guards outside his room stood straighter at Masaru’s approach. Any more tension and their spines would likely snap. Send for Lady Yoshime. I require her presence.

One guard nodded, his feet carrying him down the hall as Masaru entered his room beyond the sliding door.

He knew his mother had been behind their latest loss. Not only had she hired assassins, her interference had turned the tide against the Date. Masaru had seen her hand steering much in the months since he’d become daimyo. Most of her maneuvers had been against him directly, and he understood. The kami had a hand in masking the truth about his father’s death, but the end result had been the same. Masaru had chosen to allow his father to die to save Shou. He was responsible and deserved his mother’s retribution.

Lord Ogden’s shrouded face stole into his thoughts, as did the countless men lost in the failed battle. Masaru’s jaw clenched. He may have deserved his mother’s wrath, but the Date clan did not. It had to end.

The door to his receiving room slid open, but it was not his guard returning with his mother. Instead, Katashi strode in, his armor covered in the stains of battle.

At least one decision had gone right, Masaru thought to himself.

My lord, you shouldn’t have—

Masaru lifted his hand to stop the lecture, staring past his retainer at the guard who had returned. No one was at his side. Lady Yoshime? he asked, his tone going flat.

The guard shifted on his feet. Gone, Lord Date. Her guards did not realize until I arrived. She used the escape tunnel.

Masaru remembered the tunnel. It was where his mother had often locked him in the dark after a severe thrashing for some imagined slight to the kami. He’d hated the gods long before they’d earned his distrust.

The guard hesitated in the doorway.

Is there more? Katashi asked for him.

She took young Lord Date with her.

The news was not surprising. Masaru had not seen his brother since their father’s funeral.

What should we do, my lord? the guard asked.

Leave me. The words came out with a snap of frustration he couldn’t contain.

The guard slammed the sliding door shut in his haste to depart.

They’d lost many men in both battles. And with his mother’s desertion, even more retainers would withdraw their allegiance. One thought crowded out another until all Masaru saw was failure in every direction.

Katashi began to pace. She likely aligned with another clan within Oshu. With the younger Lord Date, if you were to fall, she would have—

Katashi, Masaru lifted his voice to be heard. His retainer stopped mid-stride, blinking at Masaru as if he’d lost his train of thought.

Strategy can wait. Go see to yourself. You have injuries.

I should be dead. Katashi ran a hand over his face, smearing dirt and blood, though it was impossible to tell if the blood was his. The army I led would all be dead if your tengu had not come.

Then Makoto served his purpose. A bit of Masaru’s tension