“Oh, you know, just enjoying this lovely hike.” The calm demeanor Ishawari meant to convey was betrayed by his labored breathing. 

He released all of the tension built up in his body from scaling the ledge, and tumbled onto the spacious path with a sigh of relief. They did it. They made it out of the castle alive, and in one piece, more or less. Though visibly exhausted, Ishawari rose to his knees.

“You did well, my Prince. You are very brave. We will need more of that for the journey ahead.” He bowed, then rose his head up at Jin with an affectionate nod, “I knew she would keep you safe.” 

The night was cruel and violent, but there was a moment of peace, out here in the moonlight. The soft winds cooled his sweaty brow, and the sound of rushing water from the ravine, calmed his mind. He wanted to hold onto this moment for another minute, but he knew he was stalling. It was time to leave this place he called his home.  

The sound of trudging hooves were heard coming up the path. The adrenaline came back to him. Rising to his feet after scooping up his spear, Ishawari pointed the weapon down the path, ready to throw it. 

“No! Don’t kill me!” A figure dressed in a wheat shawl and rice hat put his hands up in defense. Judging by the sound of his voice and the hunch in his posture, he was likely in his 70s. The horse pulling the cart next to him whined, sensing his master’s distress. “My name is Daigo, one of many of the Yomiyawa’s secret agents! I’m here to transport you to safety!” 

[center][i]End of Prologue[/i][/center]