In the heart of Edo era Japan, the Eleventh Year of Kanei era or 1639, amidst the tranquil landscapes and the scent of cherry blossoms in the deep Kurama mountain, the place that Minamoto no Yoshitsune used to train with Tengu.
But in this era, lived a young boy that is you. Orphaned at a tender age, you found solace in the company of a blind old man who had taken you in as his pupil. The old man, known to the villagers as Sensei, was a master swordsman who had once been a formidable presence in the martial arts world.
Under Sensei's guidance, you learned the art of the sword, honing his skills with each passing day. The blind old man possessed a wisdom that transcended his physical limitations, and his every word was a treasure trove of ancient knowledge. As the years went by, you grew into a skilled swordsman, displaying a prowess that rivaled even the most seasoned warriors.
Sensei, however, was well aware of the inevitable passage of time. On a calm autumn evening, as the leaves whispered in the wind, Sensei called you to his side. The old man's clouded eyes held a deep sense of gratitude and affection for the young boy who had become like a son to him.
"Hiroshi," Sensei began, his voice carrying the weight of centuries, "I have trained you in the ways of the sword, but my time in this world is nearing its end. Before I leave, I have a task for you."
He handed you a weathered scroll sealed with the mark of a legendary swordsman. "This is a letter addressed to Ootomi in Edo. It is time for you to make your mark in the history of this country as the last disciple of me, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna."
Your eyes widened with a mixture of awe and responsibility "Sensei... This..."
"Take it" Sensei commanded before continuing, "Ootomi is a place of great significance. There, you will find challenges and opportunities that will shape your destiny. Carry my legacy, Hiroshi, and let your name resonate in the annals of our land."
With a profound bow, Hiroshi accepted the scroll and vowed to fulfill Sensei's final wish "I won't let you down... I promise!"
"Good..." The old man passed away peacefully, leaving you with a heavy heart and a burning determination.
After graved your master. You started on a journey to Edo, while faced with many trials that tested your mettle. Along the way, you encountered rival swordsmen, learned ancient techniques, and unraveled the secrets within the scroll.
Eventually, you reached Ootomi, a place steeped in history and mystery in the heart of Edo.
"Is this... Ootomi!?" you exclaimed, awestruck by the breathtaking sight of the massive Japanese building. It loomed before you with many walls and a formidable protection system.
As the journey had brought you to many places of great historical and mystical significance, the magnitude of Ootomi still left you in awe. The architecture spoke of a bygone era, and the intricate details of the walls and protective structures hinted at the importance of what lay within.
As you approached the imposing gates, the air seemed to buzz with ancient energy. The guards stationed at the entrance eyed you with a mix of curiosity and caution, holding their Yari spears in their hands, preparing for any incident. Sensing the weight of the letter from your late Sensei, you confidently presented it to the guards.
"This is a missive from my master, Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, to the person in authority in this place," you declared, your voice carrying the authority of your training and the legacy you carried.
The guards scrutinized the seal, exchanging glances before nodding in acknowledgment. The gates creaked open, revealing a courtyard adorned with cherry blossom trees and traditional Japanese gardens. You felt a sense of purpose and destiny guiding your steps as you ventured further into Ootomi.
Within the walls, you discover a complex network of training grounds, meditation spaces, and ancient halls. Scholars and fellow swordsmen moved about, their presence acknowledging the gravity of your arrival. The air was filled with the sounds of clashing swords, the murmur of teachings, and the whispers of the wind through the cherry blossoms.
As you made your way deeper into Ootomi, you were guided to the luxurious building that was encircled by the court of the Council of Ootomi. The grand structure stood as a testament to the power and influence wielded by those who governed this sacred place.
As you approached the entrance, adorned with intricate carvings and symbols, a pair of imposing figures in elaborate robes greeted you. They were the guardians of the council, and their stern expressions softened slightly as they acknowledged the presence of the last disciple of Kamiizumi Nobutsuna.
"Welcome, Hiroshi," one of them spoke, his voice resonating with authority. "We have been expecting you. Your master's missive has preceded you, and the council awaits your audience."
You followed them through opulent corridors adorned with tapestries depicting the rich history of Ootomi. The air was thick with a sense of anticipation as you entered the council chamber, where esteemed members clad in ceremonial garments sat in a semi-circle.
The head of the council, an elderly figure with a long, flowing beard, spoke first. "Hiroshi, the disciple of Kamiizumi Ise no kami Nobutsuna, we have read the missive. Your presence here marks a significant moment for Ootomi. Speak, and let us understand the purpose of your arrival."
You took a deep breath, feeling the weight of the moment, and began, "I don't have any purpose, none other than just to send my teacher's letter to Ootomi. That's all I know."
One council member, a wise-looking woman in a luxurious kimono with a keen gaze, spoke up. "The letter speaks of a task already. Kensei-sama wishes you to study at Ootomi, young swordsman?"
You were stunned. "To study at Ootomi? You mean this is a school? Like the Terakoya (寺子屋)?"
"Do not compare our school to those Terakoya!" some elderly man hissed. "Our school is higher and more prestigious than those commoner schools!"
"I apologize, esteemed council member," you said, quickly bowing respectfully. "I did not intend to diminish the significance of Ootomi. I am merely unfamiliar with the customs and structures of this esteemed place."
The elderly man's stern expression softened slightly as he acknowledged your apology. "Ignorance is not a crime, young swordsman. Your sincerity is appreciated. Now, let us clarify the purpose of your presence here before we decide whether we will accept Kensei-sama's request or not."
The council members deliberated in hushed tones, their voices echoing within the chamber. After a moment, the head of the council nodded approvingly. "Hiroshi, now you have our support. The path ahead will not be easy, but with the blessing of Kamiizumi Nobutsuna, we believe you are worthy to study here, even if you're a commoner."
"I thank you for your kindness." You bowed to the members of the council.
As discussions unfolded, one of the elder council members approached you. "Hiroshi-kun, right? Welcome to Ootomi. I am the highest authority in charge of this school, Tokugawa Yorifusa."
You were stunned by the revelation and quickly bowed, recognizing the weight of the Tokugawa name. In the hallowed halls of Ootomi, you were now face to face with one of the influential figures responsible for the governance of the land.
"Tokugawa Yorifusa-sama, I am honored by your presence," you expressed with deep respect in your voice.
Tokugawa Yorifusa regarded you with a discerning gaze, a mixture of curiosity and expectation in his eyes. "Kamiizumi Nobutsuna entrusted you with a mission, and the council has deemed you worthy. Your journey at Ootomi begins now, Hiroshi. I hope you will embrace the teachings, hone your skills, and become a person who helps our Bakufu take care of this country."
"I promise, Tokugawa-sama," you said.
"Good," he nodded, then gave a signal to the council members, and the deliberations concluded. As the members exited through the grand doors of the council chamber behind you, Yorifusa gestured for you to follow him along with his samurai bodyguards.
Then Tokugawa Yorifusa led you through the intricate corridors of Ootomi, and you couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence in the air. The ambiance grew more sacred as you entered a room adorned with mystical symbols, and the energy within hinted at the importance of what lay ahead.
Before you could fully take in your surroundings, your eyes were drawn to an array of eggs arranged neatly in the center of the room. Each egg emanated a unique and ancient aura, adding to the mystique of the chamber.
Lord Yorifusa gestured towards the eggs and spoke, "Hiroshi, within these eggs reside powerful Shikigami spirits. As a student of Ootomi, you have the honor of choosing one that will accompany you on your journey."
As he spoke, Lord Yorifusa ordered his samurai and Onmyouji to bring four eggs to you. He explained that these four were the standard Shikigami of Ootomi: Bakeneko, Tanooki, Inari, and Oni.
"Bakeneko is very friendly and always keeps you away from being sad. Tanooki is laid back, so when you're stressed out, you can always lean on her. Inari has morals, so if you need help with studying, you can count on her. And the Oni is the strongest, so if you need someone to defend you, the Oni Shikigami is the right choice."
The samurai and Onmyouji carefully presented the eggs before you. Each egg seemed to resonate with a distinct energy, and you felt a deep connection with the spiritual presence they held. The decision weighed heavily on your shoulders as you considered the unique attributes of each Shikigami.
Lord Yorifusa observed your contemplation with a knowing gaze. "Hiroshi, if you have another mythical creature in mind for your Shikigami, you are free to make a request. The bond you share with your spirit companion is vital on your journey. Trust your instincts and choose wisely."
You felt a surge of gratitude for the opportunity to make a personalized choice. As you pondered, a mythical creature came to mind...That is...
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