Chapter 1
The boy speaks his first words since the duel. A child asks what the stick is for. A headman asks his name — the last time it means nothing. A traveler recognizes him from a story he did not know was already crossing the mountains.
Chapter 1
Harima Province, 1596. A dusty road. Late afternoon sun. A boy. A wooden sword. The duel is over. The journey begins.
Chapter 1
The mountain road. The clearing. The crossing. The world below recedes.
Chapter 1
The river teaches adjustment. The fire teaches warmth. The summit teaches perspective.