semi-hiatus

“Some say the heavens dictate the rise and fall of empires. Clearly, those peasants have never met me.”

“I trust you.” The words were a whisper into my soul. The tips of her thumbs brushed my cheek, unbearably tender, and I closed my eyes against the softness.”

The Rite of Dreaming was a rite for worship and joy, for history and family, but most of all, it was a rite for dancing with clan.

“Even if we don't know where we'll go in the future, perhaps our lives were always meant to collide again and again. Perhaps we are forever meant to be each other's catalysts.”

“And wilderness is paradise now.”

“I won’t let him have you,” she whispered in a fierce voice. “Your life is worth something—to me.” Her other hand touched my face, making me shiver. “Look at me, Tatsumi-san. Really look at me, and tell me what you see.”

“Master Isao taught kindness and patience in all things, especially when one was injured,” I went on. “He said that caring for the spirit was just as important as caring for the body.” Looking into Tatsumi’s blank, emotionless face, I had a sudden, heartbreaking insight. “No one has ever showed you any kindness before, have they?”

“You try to walk in the light.”

“But I’ll fight as hard as I can. I can promise you that.”