The Kami Prophecy Omnibus Books 1-3: The Kami Prophecy

By A.C. Ward

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

 

Escaping death by her father's hand was only the beginning....

 

Determined to prove herself to the gods, Shou will do anything to forget the journey that stranded her on the island of the kami. Teaming up with Masaru, heir to the Date clan, is her only option to escape the realm and save herself from death.  

 

As Masaru and Shou become closer, Shou's feelings grow beyond just the need to repay him for all he's done to help her.  But like the kami that she knows so well, power struggles exist among the humans. His mother wants her dead, and the secret of her own lineage leads to even greater risks.

 

Shou no longer wants to accept protection, but longs to be Masaru's strength. Only there's a darker force behind her enemies that not even her kami friends can help her to defeat. How much will Shou need to sacrifice in order to save the one she's beginning to love?

 

Books 1-3 of The Kami Prophecy, a YA series full of action, romance, and adventure, all set in a fantasy world inspired by feudal Japan.

• Language: English
• Publisher: A.C. Ward
• Release date: Dec 15, 2022
• ISBN: 9798215755532

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 1-3

A.C. Ward

Katana of Trust

Sword of Compassion

Spear of Courage

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. Prologue

2. Chapter 1

3. Chapter 2

4. Chapter 3

5. Chapter 4

6. Chapter 5

7. Chapter 6

8. Chapter 7

9. Chapter 8

10. Chapter 9

11. Chapter 10

12. Chapter 11

13. Chapter 12

14. Chapter 13

15. Chapter 14

16. Chapter 15

17. Chapter 16

18. Chapter 17

19. Chapter 18

20. Chapter 19

21. Chapter 20

22. Chapter 21

23. Chapter 22

24. Chapter 23

25. Chapter 24

26. Chapter 25

27. Chapter 26

28. Chapter 27

29. Chapter 28

30. Chapter 29

31. Chapter 30

32. Chapter 31

33. Chapter 1

34. Chapter 2

35. Chapter 3

36. Chapter 4

37. Chapter 5

38. Chapter 6

39. Chapter 7

40. Chapter 8

41. Chapter 9

42. Chapter 10

43. Chapter 11

44. Chapter 12

45. Chapter 13

46. Chapter 14

47. Chapter 15

48. Chapter 16

49. Chapter 17

50. Chapter 18

51. Chapter 19

52. Chapter 20

53. Chapter 21

54. Chapter 22

55. Chapter 23

56. Chapter 24

57. Chapter 25

58. Chapter 26

59. Chapter 1

60. Chapter 2

61. Chapter 3

62. Chapter 4

63. Chapter 5

64. Chapter 6

65. Chapter 7

66. Chapter 8

67. Chapter 9

68. Chapter 10

69. Chapter 11

70. Chapter 12

71. Chapter 13

72. Chapter 14

73. Chapter 15

74. Chapter 16

75. Chapter 17

76. Chapter 18

77. Chapter 19

78. Chapter 20

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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Prologue

Their daughter had always been quick on her feet, and that is what saved her from her father.

Seika tried to reach them. He had locked her away, but some of his household were still loyal to her. She was the one with them as he fought his campaigns. She was the one that knew them by name while he barked his orders. She was the one that had built a home for their daughter and hidden from his eyes how special the being they had created truly was.

In the mists over the water, a shimmer sparkled in the rising dawn. The island was barely visible. The mountain on it reached toward the fading stars. Seika could hear soft laughter from the beings that resided there.

Please protect her, she huffed, running toward her daughter even through her exhaustion. The kami, the spiritual beings and gods that ruled the world, did not answer but watched in anticipation.

Her husband lifted his sword, no hesitation in his swing as he brought it down toward his daughter. Seika was too far away, by moments.

But their daughter leaped forward, into the water and beyond the reach of the sword. She turned, wariness in her green eyes, the look she always had for her father. A look that Seika had tried to make disappear with her love.

Do not disobey me, Ujiyasu said, his eyes narrowed under his helm. He had worn his armor to murder his child.

But he was too late. Seika threw herself into the water, placing her body between them. There is no honor in this, she told the man that she had never come to understand.

He stared back at her. I was saving you from this task. If you had not hidden the mark from me for nearly six years, this loss would be easier.

It is a mark of honor. The raised swirl depicting a dragon on their daughter’s shoulder was beyond anything of their world. The kami had marked her from even before the womb. Seika felt pride that they had chosen her daughter. She had thought it brought a purpose to her arranged marriage. A purpose to the life she had mourned living. Your daughter is the child of the prophecy.

Which makes removing her from this world my responsibility. Ujiyasu lifted his sword. Do not force me to remove you with her.

Seika lowered her head. The chill of the water weighed down her kimono. She had lost her sandals long before, and her bare feet were visible below the surface, with the tiny toes of her daughter just behind her. The child had always loved the feel of the land beneath her flesh, hating the way sandal straps dug in as she ran with joy.

She turned to her daughter, meeting the confusion in her gaze. Reaching out, she cupped the child’s face, feeling her lean into the touch. I am sorry.

Her daughter’s eyes darted to each of her parents as she backed away from even her mother.

I love you, Seika continued, but the kami are your family now. They likely always were. Seek them and find your place. Go! Swim to the island.

With a scream that was very much a battle cry, Seika flew at her husband. The sword slashed down, and her stomach burned as if the metal were flame. She still managed her purpose and tackled the man to the ground.

Her weight would earn her daughter mere moments, so Seika clung to his armor, grunting in pain each time Ujiyasu tried to throw her off. His blade pierced deep, and her fingers lost their hold, allowing him to shove her away.

Seika’s back thumped to the ground, and she managed to turn her head. Her daughter had obeyed. Sleek in the water, she had already reached midway. If Seika squinted, she could see the green of the island through the mist beyond the child. It continued to shimmer, and Seika prayed for it to wait just a moment longer.

You taught the child to swim in my absence. Ujiyasu gained his feet and stared across the lake.

Their daughter reached the other side, pulling herself onto the land.

The sun rose fully. A flare of bright green light blinded them as it raced across the land. When it faded, so had the mysterious island.

She is safe from you, Seika murmured.

For ten years. You have allowed the abomination time, that is all. Her husband turned to her, a frown marring his features. It held sadness, not the anger she expected. You gave your life for nothing. I will still find her, and you will not be here to protect her. He looked past her. Come, son. Let’s go home.

Seika hadn’t realized he was there. Her focus had all been on their daughter. She hadn’t considered that he would bring his son to the scene.

The boy moved to his father’s side, his eyes on Seika, but not on her face. He stared at the wound in her stomach, the blood flowing. Shouldn’t we provide an end to her? A spark lit in his eyes.

No, Ujiyasu said, placing his hand on the shoulder of his son. Let her face her failure until the end.

They stepped over Seika’s prone body. The young boy looked back once, a frown of frustration marking his face.

Seika gazed over the sun-dappled water to an island that could no longer be seen. Please accept her, she prayed. The white sparkle grew until it blinded her. She pictured her favorite thing, the full smile that had crossed her daughter’s face, though not often enough. Accept her as no one besides me ever has.

As the kami watched, her last breath slipped from her body.

Chapter 1

Masaru schooled his expression, which was easy to do when people only saw half his face. His eyepatch and a curtain of hair blocked most of the hidden side. He brushed a finger along the patch, ignoring the pain in his back as he straightened. It wasn’t as if it was the first time he’d experienced it.

His steps were strong and sure as he strode down the castle corridor. His uncovered eye barely flicked as others moved out of his path. Masaru was used to being avoided. The rumors about him were ridiculous to listen to, but even so, they spread throughout the clan. The one he shook his head over most was that he ate babies in order to feed his yokai eye, hidden beneath the patch. Yokai were a myth, just as all kami were. He hated that his people were so superstitious.

I am glad to find you, my lord, Katashi said, following up the greeting with a clap on his shoulder.

Masaru stilled, willing his face to remain void. His retainer’s hand had missed the lashes, but his back reverberated with the pain of the jostle.

Katashi didn’t miss much. His hand fell to his side. She did it directly before the challenge?

Masaru started walking again, not bothering to answer.

I’ll speak to Lord Teremune. Maybe he will—

Masaru rounded on him, backing him into the wall. You’ll do nothing.

Katashi’s lips tightened as he stared into Masaru’s good eye. He nodded. As you wish, Lord Masaru.

Murmurs filled Masaru’s ears as others avoided the hall. He straightened, even that act dragging the cloth of his kimono over the whip’s lashes. I’m not your lord, he said, turning away.

Not yet, but you’re still Lord Teremune’s heir. Katashi met his stride. That’s why you’re representing our clan in the challenge.

Masaru didn’t respond, feeling eyes pressing in on him. He was almost to his rooms. Then he could collect his thoughts and prepare his mind. The sliding door was like a beacon before him, and some of the tension in his shoulders eased as he opened it. You are dismissed until it’s time to depart.

Katashi put his hand on the door before it slid shut again. I am not. He pushed his way forward and shut the door behind him. We’re here now, so drop the act and let me attend to your wounds.

Masaru openly glared at him. I can handle this.

You’re going to allow me to apply salves and cloths. You’re not the type to risk more than you have to. Katashi went to the nearby shelves, pulling down the items he would need. Who knows what this island will hold for you? You must be as prepared as you can be.

Masaru frowned as he eased his robes off his shoulders. A hiss escaped his lips as the cloth stuck to the wounds. Katashi glanced his way but didn’t comment as he finished gathering the supplies. Do you truly believe that the island exists? Masaru asked.

I do. I was raised in the temple, a fact you’re not likely to forget. Katashi moved behind him, and Masaru could almost feel the man’s grimace as he stared at the damage to his back. Something must be done about that woman. That she would—

You will hold your words, Masaru ordered. She is my mother, and wife to the daimyo. He winced as the first of the salve was applied.

Pardon me, Katashi said. He was being as gentle as he could, Masaru knew. Katashi had been his retainer for years, and his father’s before that. The man had practically raised him, though he was only five years older than Masaru’s own seventeen. He was the closest thing to a friend that Masaru had. As much of a friend as he could be, with their difference in positions.

They both allowed silence to reign. Masaru focused on enduring, one aspect of life he excelled in.

Supposedly, the island he was being escorted to only existed on a single evening once every ten years. A line of the kami prophecy had finally been deciphered that spoke of it.

After light is cast on the dragon marked Heirs of the Kami

Seek the island’s blessing during a single decade night.

Masaru brushed his cheek beneath the hair that covered it. Touched by the kami, that is what he’d always been accused of. He had often wished that the mark would fade, that of the dragon chasing its own tail. The mark was the reason his mother continuously tried to remove imperfections from his body. He had yet to see anything that he would consider beyond the human world. His mother and father believed in the kami enough for all of them.

No, it wasn’t the kami that were a risk. It was the heirs of the other clans, all being sent after the same prize. They would be in the same vicinity for the first time, and the situation would be rife with the opportunity to make allies, as well as enemies.

Masaru broke off a hiss of pain as Katashi ministered to a deeper lash on his shoulder. His mother had assured that he would go into the situation at a disadvantage.

Katashi read his thoughts as usual. I wish I could join you.

Masaru acknowledged the sentiment with a nod. Thank you for the additional sparring matches. His friend did not hold back, but showed him his true progress. Masaru did not often come out the winner, but he had done so twice in the preceding weeks.

You’re ready, Katashi said. He laid his hand over the last salve-soaked cloth. Given your sight, remember to open your other senses. You can overcome anyone you set your mind to.

Yeah, Masaru said, but he didn’t believe it. His shoulders tightened as he focused on his goal. He was future lord of the Date. He would manage somehow.

Now, come, Katashi said. When Masaru turned, there was a pleased smile on his retainer’s face. I’ll help you into your armor. It’s almost time to join the clan. We depart soon.

Right. Join the clan. In order to be sacrificed to the gods he didn’t believe in, Masaru thought to himself. Then everyone would be happy.

Hey. There was a snap in Katashi’s voice that pulled Masaru’s gaze to his. You are the most important part of this clan. You are its future. Do not forget that. The confidence was there in his retainer’s eyes.

Masaru wished he felt the same.

Chapter 2

Mist blanketed the surface of the water, masking anything beyond it. No birds called, no bugs chirped to announce the coming night. An eerie silence hung over the world, as if every being was holding its breath.

Masaru stared ahead from his place at his father’s side. The horse beneath him wanted to turn away, and he used his knees to control the movement. He wished he could let them both run, but he was not one to avoid responsibility.

Lord Teremune cleared his throat from beside him. Remember that you are representing the Date clan.

That was something Masaru never forgot.

You are my heir, Teremune said, moving his horse close enough that he could squeeze Masaru on the shoulder.

The salve-soaked cloths had done their best, but Masaru still tensed under the pressure.

Your mother… His father trailed off. Masaru met his gaze. Lord Teremune didn’t flinch from the acknowledgment there. She strengthens you in her own way.

It was the response Masaru expected.

The kami have always honored our clan. They also gave us you. Pride was there in his father’s voice.

Most of the other clans had arrived and had spread along the banks of the lake, together but separate. Only one had to make an entrance. The Hojo land was closest to the lake, but whether due to disorganization or on purpose, they were the last to arrive.

The sound of horse hooves approaching filled the silence. The heir of that clan leaped from his horse with an arrogance that matched his reputation. The slap he used on his horse’s flank to send it off to a waiting retainer caused Masaru to clench his teeth. The Hojo heir didn’t even acknowledge his own lord. He strode to the boat banked before him and pushed off, heading into the mist.

Bold, Lord Teremune acknowledged, and Masaru felt the backlash of that respect. The kami may be drawn to that type of confidence. His father turned to him. Attempt to find the advantage the prophecy speaks of, but remember, there is a more important task at hand. You must earn the respect of the kami. With their respect, the Date clan will have a truer advantage than anything else being offered.

I understand, Masaru said, though he didn’t. The beings he was being led to make an alliance with didn’t exist. Sweat dripped beneath his helm. Failure was inevitable. He was being tasked with the impossible.

The sun lowered in the sky, bringing with it flames of red that enveloped the awaiting mist, bathing the area in the light of dusk.

It is almost time. Excitement filled Teremune’s voice. Go. Bring honor to our clan.

Masaru slid from his horse, leading it forward to where Katashi waited.

His retainer took the reins from his hand. I will be with you in spirit, he said. Remember my teachings. Strategy will serve you well.

Masaru nodded and headed to the boat. Even his friend doubted he could complete the task without him. Masaru wasn’t the strategist or the strength of the clan. He was heir only because of his bloodline, and when he failed, even that respect would fade away, to show the nothingness he had always believed he was.

Water splashed around the legs of his armor as he pushed the boat off the land and climbed inside. The craft wobbled dangerously from side to side. The oar he’d been provided slipped from his fingers over the side of the boat. Masaru closed his good eye, willing the inept feeling inside to disappear. He reached for the water, the boat dipping. His fingers only scraped the oar when the boat caught an unexpected current, drawing him past it and out of reach.

But the oar was unneeded. Unlike the Hojo heir, who was paddling furiously, Masaru’s own boat was pulled into the mist by something out of his control.

A flare of a bright green light blinded him. It was a green he’d never seen before, and the afterimages were jewel like in their sparkle. As they faded, a mountain rose above the mist on an island that hadn’t been there only moments before.

It did exist, Masaru thought to himself. Whether or not he was ready, the boat carried him forward to the fate that awaited him.

Chapter 3

The flash of green blinded her. It was a color she’d seen before, a rare moss that grew on the rock kami only on the cusp of winter, if the rain fell just so. As she blinked the afterimages away, she finally saw what was revealed below. It wasn’t the curtain of mist that she’d come to expect.

What do you see, human? the tengu asked from the ground.

She parted the leaves of the tree, leaning farther out on the sturdy branch. The orange of the setting sun shimmered across the revealed water. Beyond the ripples people spread—humans like her—covering the banks of the far shore. And beyond the people, even in the shadows of dusk, she could see land, the land that she must have been from, but that she hardly remembered. Only vague impressions remained, the strongest of which contained a woman with strong arms and the smell of pine and lavender mixed together. And the woman’s words, that the kami would be her family. A gentle lie that she’d never found truth in.

Well, human?

I’m not certain. I’ve never seen anything like this. She stared out at the mass of people and where, in front of them on the water, boats drifted. I think you should look for yourself, Makoto.

The tengu let out a sigh that seemed big enough to move her branch. His dark wings expanded, and he used them to ascend. The tree groaned from his weight, and she clung tighter to the bark beneath her fingers. His gray eyes glared at her above his sharp beak. Remember that you called me up here.

Look, she said, pointing a finger through the leaves.

His gaze moved past where she indicated, and a shine came into them. Ah, it’s been that long already. Ten years passed swiftly. His eyes narrowed, and his mouth tensed. But it has been much time since anyone has dared to approach the island.

She stared at one of the boats, which had only one person inside. I came.

He smiled at her. You were an exception among the decades that came before. The limb creaked as he crouched over her for a better view. See the humans that come now. Covered in armor and wielding weapons, they do not seek sanctuary as you did.

Had that been what she was seeking? Family seemed different from a sanctuary. Though she had not come to true harm, she had not been protected from the jeering of the kami, or their tricks.

That helmet there even has golden horns. Ridiculous. He shook his head but continued to study them. These intruders will need to be routed, Makoto said. His smile grew. He looked down at her. This is an opportunity for you. Show your skills at turning away your own, human, and you will be rewarded.

Do you mean… She held her breath, not daring to say it.

Perhaps. I must speak with the king and queen. He spread his wings again, tilting his head as a question. She hastily nodded. He gripped her beneath her arms, and they tumbled off the branch. She always loved to fly. It was how they had met so long ago. She had been afraid of him and lost her footing on the mountain. Makoto had caught her mid-fall, and they had glided down to land—after a bit of time, of course. He thought he was playing with her, but he had brought her the first feeling of joy she had had on the island, one that was very brief this time, as they quickly reached the ground below.

There is much to do. Do you remember what we’ve been practicing? Makoto raised one eyebrow.

She nodded.

Then start there. This will be a good exercise for you. His gaze lifted to look at the top of the mountain, a mountain that was always visible no matter where one stood on the island. I must go.

I understand. I’ll do my best.

Makoto looked at her and frowned. Be very careful. These beings are like you, but not like you. Do not come to harm in my absence, my human.

She felt warmth in her chest as he smiled at her. Then his wings flapped, and he was in the air.

My human. It had a ring to it. Almost like a name.

She looked back at the lone human she had seen before, the one by himself in a small boat with the ridiculous, golden-horned helmet. She would need to prepare some things. Her bare feet were soundless as she scampered off into the woods.

Chapter 4

Due to the strange tide, Masaru’s boat hit the sand first, before even the compulsive Hojo heir’s. He didn’t immediately scramble to the sand. Instead, he looked around the beach, taking in the seaweed higher up, though it did not touch the rock face. There hadn’t been seaweed on the outer bank of the lake, as it wasn’t an ocean. The island seemed to contradict that. Eyes blinked at him from the twisted snarls, but when he stared harder they disappeared, just his imagination at play. When his gaze traced the rock up to the top, trees reached over the edge, indicating a forest beyond. To the left of the cliff face, steps were carved leading up, as if welcoming them in.

Masaru was studying the wrong danger. Something slammed into the side of his head, toppling him out of the boat and into the water. His helmet, with the traditional golden crescent moon of his clan, sank into the water below.

No one beats me, the Hojo heir said, gripping his oar.

Hojo Shinji, Masaru reminded himself. He had studied all the other clans on paper, but it was different having an enemy before him. He watched the other heir’s posture, angry at himself. He should have seen the blow coming.

Shinji laughed at Masaru, where he still sat in the water. He threw the oar into his boat, not bothering to bank it. Stay out of my way, the heir warned. He turned and raced up the stairs, disappearing into the trees above.

That was entertaining, someone else said. A smile crossed the new heir’s face as he leaned against the rock, as if he found the situation amusing.

Masaru swallowed any words and reached for where the helmet had fallen. His hand came up empty. His eye scanned the clear water, but it was nowhere to be found, as if it had been taken away by the same tide that had carried him in.

The water kami took your helmet, the new heir supplied unhelpfully.

Masaru stood, water cascading down the rest of his armor. He gripped the edge of his boat, hauling it up the bank. By his calculation, the high tide came up that far, and he needed to plan ahead as they might be on the island long enough to experience it. Unfortunately, this action brought him closer to the new heir, who continued to smile at him. It was a smile that didn’t reach his eyes.

You are a careful one, Masaru, heir of the Date clan, he was told. Your actions match at least part of your reputation. He stared at the eyepatch. I wonder if all the rumors are true.

Masaru refused to rise to the bait. He took in the non-laughing brown eyes, the cropped, lighter hair, and the crest that donned the man’s shoulder, a crest depicting plants growing out of leaves. Say your piece, Toyotoma Hikaru.

Ah, so you’ve studied me. Hikaru’s false smile didn’t fade.

The seven other heirs had landed on the island and rushed up the stairs, following the path of Shinji. Ten in all, including Masaru himself. Nine possible enemies to be wary of.

A word of advice, Hikaru continued. He waited until Masaru looked his way again. This island is different from being cooped up with a bunch of books to tell you what the world is like. You’re out of your depth. His eyes moved to Masaru’s cheek, as if he could see beneath the fall of hair that covered it. Prophecy or no prophecy.

Masaru waited. His sword remained at his side, and his hand found the hilt.

Hikaru laughed. I won’t fight you. From what I’ve seen—he paused, scanning Masaru again—you’re not worth the effort. You should stay hidden. Protect yourself.

Shouts of pain and panic drifted to them from above.

The fools, Hikaru said, shaking his head. Rushing forward with no regard for what could happen. Now I’m curious. He turned his back and climbed the steps.

Masaru watched until the heir was swallowed by the trees. Only then did he ease his stance. More shouts reached his ears.

He looked back across the water. The mist had cleared enough that he could see the figures on the other side. His father must have seen his disgrace at the hands of the Hojo heir. His fists clenched at his sides. He had to do better.

Above it all, the sun lowered out of sight, but darkness did not reign. The full moon that replaced it lit the world more than moonlight ever should.

Masaru turned to the steps and placed his foot on the first one. It was time to see for himself what the mysterious island held.

Chapter 5

She raced away from the pit she had created, the tree branches moving behind her to mask her path. The forest was one portion of the island that had accepted her. There were differences in kami, and the nameless ones that were part of the island itself nurtured and protected her, so long as she respected the land and nature around her.

Shouts filtered to her from behind. She’d finished the pit just in time. Thank you, she murmured to the air, and felt the shiver of response. She was tempted to see the result of her handiwork, but much more needed to be done. Makoto had tasked her with holding them at bay, and she did not wish to fail.

The trees helped her as she set more traps along the way. They were quick to tie vines and hide any telltale signs of the traps. She loved being among the forest. The scent of pine was a hint of her past. Not fully, but enough to bring her comfort.

A heavy footstep snapped a fallen limb nearby. She backed into the closest tangle of vines, letting them slither over her, and waited.

So did the forest. It was as if it held its breath, even the wind hushing to a stop. The person coming had no training in the art of stealth. Every footstep could be heard, every grunt and every sweep of the sword, for this one was cleaving through the growth, with no respect for the death that he wrought.

And it was a he. She could see him cutting through another vine. The ones around her shivered in response, but he did not notice the effect he was having. She doubted he noticed much. His eyes were too narrowed, his lips pulled back in a snarl, and a scar on his cheek flashed white with every clench of his teeth. He was older than her, a grown man. She didn’t care for his bulk, as he lumbered like a cliff kami. The giant cliff kami knew to remain out of the forest. Each misstep, each crunch and break, only drew attention they didn’t want.

She hadn’t finished her traps, but she wasn’t worried. She had but to wait. His path through, with complete disregard for everything he crushed, would have consequences.

The next snap of a twig echoed, as if they were in the center of a canyon and not under the green canopy. Even the man paused, frowning in confusion. The surrounding leaves began to shake, wind from the swift approach reaching him first. Then a flash of green slammed into his side, sending him flying. The trees in his path parted, providing an open trajectory to the cliff beyond. He fell out of sight. His landing on the sand below wouldn’t be enough to kill him, but it would delay him.

The kami’s angry gaze turned to where she hid, and the vines parted at its command. She bowed. Lady Kodama, you honor us. She remained in that posture, eyes on the leaves and grass below.

The presence of the kami didn’t fade. She waited, breath held, wondering if she had done something wrong.

A hand glided over her hair, a whisper of pressure. Startled, her eyes flew up.

Lady Kodama stood near. The green canopy of her gown swirled around her, vines etching a pattern too intricate for the human eye to follow. The green of her hair flowed with the vines over her shoulder, and her emerald eyes gleamed above an actual smile. You have done well, human. Continue. With a rush of wind, the kami disappeared.

She rose from her bow, her heart beating heavily, though it wasn’t an unpleasant thump. The lady of the forest had never patted her head before.

The path to the cliff edge was already covered. She couldn’t see the burly human, but she didn’t need to. Lady Kodama had bought her time. She continued deeper into the forest. The intruders must be turned away. The forest curled in toward her, as if agreeing.

Chapter 6

Masaru was close enough to the stairs to see Hojo Shinji fly off the cliff edge. The fall wouldn’t kill the man. It was only a flight and a half, and the sand below wasn’t hard packed. The Hojo heir had appeared more surefooted than to make such a mistake.

Masaru had been skirting the path, but he paused, squinting toward where the man had stood. All he saw were leaves swaying, no hint of the possible danger that existed, but the raised hairs along his arms indicated otherwise.

The majority of the heirs had been trapped in a pit. Again, the fall caused little harm, and there had been nothing to impale them at the bottom, but that had been the cause of the shouts of panic before. They were effectively captured, with the walls crumbling beneath their hands each time they attempted to escape. Masaru had observed them and then found another route.

The outskirts of the forest no longer appeared safe. Not that the term safe applied to any part of the island. He eyed the forest beyond. If he’d been accompanied by his clan, he would have sent scouts ahead, but there were no retainers to allow for that option.

He hadn’t seen the Toyotoma heir at the pit or along the cliff edge. His hand clenched on the hilt of his sword. The heir was likely far ahead of him by now. The time for caution had passed.

He walked through the canopy and into the trees beyond. Each foot was placed so that it made the least amount of sound. Katashi had taught him that trick. When he was on his own, it wasn’t advised to light a beacon over his head, and excessive noise did that. Instead, he made the least impact he could on his path.

Moonlight filtered through the trees, more than he would have considered possible. It was as if the leaves overhead shifted to allow the most illumination. He squinted at them with his one good eye, goosebumps remaining along his arms, though not visible beneath the armor.

A creak came from a spot beside him. He whirled toward the noise, but nothing was there. For an island rumored to being covered with strange beings, he had seen no signs to support it. The kami were illusive, or so the lore said. He huffed to himself. It sounded like an excuse to him.

He went to take another step, and the creak repeated, this time closer to the ground. He studied the forest floor before him and hastily moved his foot. Crouching, he squinted at the abnormal pile of leaves. His hand reached for a nearby fallen limb, and he used it to spring the trap. The vine that would have wrapped around his leg captured the stick instead, leaving it swinging high in the air.

Masaru frowned at the forest around him. Someone had to be making the traps, but it couldn’t be any of the heirs, not with them arriving together. There was an additional danger on the island.

He continued his route through the forest, slower than before, springing three more traps in the same way. He would owe Katashi his favorite dango when he returned. The skills he had insisted on Masaru learning over the last few months were already proving useful. His retainer was often right, but Masaru was loath to admit it. The man had too much confidence as it was.

Another strange formation rested against a tree in front of him. It was almost too obvious, and irritation rose. He scanned the ground, but no sticks or twigs drew his attention. He sighed as he gripped his sword hilt, the metal swish audible in the low hush of the forest as he pulled the blade free. Leaning forward, he pushed it into the leaves, hearing a soft snick.

A rock swung from the treetops, larger than any he’d seen since entering the forest. Masaru ducked out of the way, but then the world tilted around him as he was hoisted into the air, his sword clanging uselessly to the ground. The net that encompassed him had been spread over the entire clearing, impossible to escape. He bit his cheek to keep his fury inside. He should have realized. In hindsight, the clearing had been much too clean of debris. Even when careful, Masaru had proven to be an idiot again.

The more he squirmed, the more the vines of the netting clung to him. He twisted his feet above him as his face scraped the greenery. His eyepatch loosened, and he grabbed for it a moment too late, his seeking hand missing the strap as it floated to the forest floor.

The air felt foreign against that side of his face. His hand clapped over his eye, hiding what was beneath from sight. His heart thumped in his chest. He stared down at what felt like a piece of himself, all strategies swirling out of his mind.

Chapter 7

The forest kami were helping the intruder. He had been so close to stepping on her first trap when the creaks came. The tree spirits themselves were on his side. They were the only ones that made those particular creaks.

She watched his foot pause, his expression thoughtful as he realized what was there. He searched the forest as if looking for her, and she stilled, wondering if he had the sight that would allow him to see her, hidden by the vines.

He was patient, waiting. Even the kami did not normally sit still that long. She herself could rarely do it. When he moved, he sprang her trap, with nothing captured.

She clicked softly to the vine kami, and they slithered forward, resetting the trap for her as she followed the human. He was different from the other one she had seen. Surefooted instead of boorishly carving a path. He had an economy of movement that was graceful. The forest kami held their breath as he passed. He was careful as he continued, finding one trap after another.

Half of his face hid behind his hair. It created a dual image, as if half of him were somewhere else even while the other half remained in the moment. His uncovered eye continuously scanned, as if seeking her, but he never found her, no matter how close she dared to drift.

When he foolishly sprang the different type of trap she had set, she didn’t crow with her victory. Instead, disappointment filled her. She had lost the opportunity to follow him. Perhaps he was not so unique. He dangled above the forest floor, imprisoned like all the rest.

Makoto had tasked her with routing all the intruders, not just one cautious one. She should return to see if the others had escaped from the pit. The bulky one that Lady Kodama had thrown over the cliff had likely recovered as well.

An unusual cloth fell from the net, like an injured bird. She watched the human’s hand seek it in vain and then move to his eye as if in mourning. Curiosity tugged at her, and she drifted forward a step. The vine kami were in agreement with that move and parted around her, the ones at her back urging her out.

The human stilled when he saw her. She waited, but he did not speak.

The scrap of cloth lay still as if broken and calling for help. She approached, bending to lift it into her hand. It was a strange strap around an oval piece of cloth. The material was worn down, but not soft to the touch as she expected. She held it up, and the leaves high above parted, bathing her in moonlight. The light did not shine through the black oval.

May I have my eyepatch? the human asked.

She lowered her arms and studied him, wondering if he dared to command her. But the words had been soft-spoken, and the eye that she could see was focused on the cloth in her hands.

Please. It’s important to me.

She tilted her head, considering his request. The tree branches shifted, creaking their encouragement on his behalf. She moved closer but was cautious. He became more rigid upon her approach. She lifted the strap toward the net, gesturing with it to indicate he could reach for it. He shifted his free arm, slow and easy, and his fingers brushed hers as he took the cloth.

Thank you, he said. He kept his eye hidden as he pulled the strap over his head.

She watched, intrigued as to whether the eye was missing to be covered so. His hand was deft, though, and she could not see. He pushed back his dark hair as he adjusted the strap’s placement, and his revealed cheek made her breath catch.

A mark was blazed upon his cheek. It had not been painted there, but was the pink of his skin. A birthmark then, one identical to her own, hidden on her shoulder. She darted closer, running a hand over his skin, part of her hoping she was wrong and that the mark would stain her fingers with some type of pigment.

He jerked from her touch as if burned. The net swung into her, shoving her away. She lost her footing, falling to the forest floor. Her eyes burned as she lay there. It wasn’t possible.

I’m sorry. You startled me. The human’s voice shivered with his surprise. The net swung, its shadow shifting toward her and then away.

She nodded but didn’t look at him. Her nails dug into the dirt beneath her fingers, only one thought reigning. He had