In Honor's Shadow: Honor's Path, #1

CHAPTER ONE

From Peaceful Traveler Village’s lone bridge Shiro watched the dust rising in the distance, one hand resting against the hilt of his katana. He could barely discern the approaching column through the brown haze. Eyes narrowed, he tried without success to spot the banners that would tell if these too were Lord Hayashi’s soldiers, or if the inevitable Hitomi pursuit had arrived at last.

Behind him the militia whispered, their voices hushed just enough for the burbling river to mask their words. It hardly mattered. He knew exactly what they were saying. How could he not when the same rumors had already burned their way through the entire village? Three days of watching exhausted soldiers retreat through the small settlement had left the commoners on the verge of panic as the full scope of the defeat became apparent.

Before he could decide if he should address their worries the slightest hint of a breeze ruffled his fur, and in the distance, the column’s pennants fluttered. He almost missed it, but a flash of cobalt caught his eye. His entire body seemed to unwind at once as a smile broke out on his muzzle.

See that we are ready to receive guests, Shiro said, tail wagging.

There was only the briefest pause, followed by a collective sigh from the militia as they eagerly sprang into motion. The scent of fear didn’t vanish—the whole village was rank with panic—but at least it lacked the same edge. The same urgency. Nothing had changed, but when change could only bring disaster that counted as a small blessing.

Shiro didn’t bother to supervise the other wolves, confident the militia knew what was expected of them. Instead, he lifted one hand to block out the late morning sun and took stock of the approaching troops.

Although from this distance it was impossible to be certain, this group seemed even more ragged than those that had come before, yet there was something about the way it rolled forward as if driven entirely by stubborn determination. These soldiers had seen heavy fighting, more than their share, and still survived to come out the other side. Bloodied perhaps, but by no measure beaten.

Another gust stirred and this time the banners caught it, unfurling before him. Each bore a different family’s emblem, but his eyes immediately snapped to the one in the lead: the stylized image of a leaping hind. His jaw clenched as he stared, making certain he’d seen correctly. There could be no mistake. Lord Hayashi Isamu’s personal mon.

Uncertainty overtook him. He carefully repositioned the paired blades of his daishō to ensure they rested properly at his side, checked the knots that secured them to his belt, and then made sure his kimono was clean. His hands betrayed him for a moment, trembling until he clenched them.

How many years has it been?

The thought pushed its way to the fore of his mind. He nearly snarled in frustration at his lapse of discipline, banishing the stray question. Resentment, like entitlement, was a reflection of selfishness. Nothing productive came from clinging to the past. All that was gone now; he needed to focus on what lay before him.

The leading cavalry pulled away from the column as he recovered. His eyes picked the young daimyo out from the other wolves easily. The silver-gray fur was impossible to overlook, standing out like a beacon among the retainers and making Shiro’s own brown fur seem drab in comparison.

When the cavalry got closer, he bent into a low bow. Lord Hayashi, Peaceful Traveler Village is at your command.

At first, he was only answered by the hollow sound of hooves anxiously stomping on the wooden bridge. Then: Ishida Shiro, is that you?

He fought to keep a grimace from his face and slowly straightened, ignoring the bitter taste on his tongue. Yet there was a trace of shock in his lord’s tone as if he truly hadn’t known. An unexpected onslaught of emotions almost made him forget himself.

Only Shiro, my lord, he said, holding the noble’s gaze.

Lord Hayashi’s eyes widened just long enough for Shiro to notice, then quickly looked away. I see, he said quietly. Is there someplace we may speak? Privately?

I maintain a modest residence, Shiro answered, completely unsurprised by the unease that spread through the daimyo’s personal guard. We may also retire to the village shrine if you prefer.

Your home will be more than sufficient.

Is that wise, my lord? asked the guard to Lord Hayashi’s right. There is no telling what—

Questioning my judgment, Lieutenant?

Shiro looked politely away, pretending to check the militia’s preparations rather than eavesdrop on the exchange. The fingers of his left hand absently brushed over the hilt of his katana, tracing the wrapped silk grip with the tips of his claws and letting memory tempt him for a moment. How easily hope seemed to find its way back to him.

Please show me to your home, Shiro, Lord Hayashi said once the guard had been reprimanded, the edge of a growl still rumbling in his voice.

Certainly, my lord, Shiro said and dipped into another low bow before he took the lead. I have commanded the local militia to open the storehouse to your men. I am afraid they will find it sorely depleted.

Isamu’s horse pulled up beside him, matching pace with his bodyguards in tow. Thank you for your generosity, but if you are concerned by your stores my men can make do.

These lands are yours; the supplies are yours by right. If we suffer hardship you may always send aid later.

He left unsaid that the Hitomi would soon arrive and capture everything that remained anyway. Judging from the look in Isamu’s eyes, the daimyo had already realized that. If Peaceful Traveler Village was attacked it couldn’t possibly defend itself.

They continued in silence to his home at the edge of town. With only three rooms the house still stood out as distinctly nicer than the thatch-roof hovels the villagers used. Even with its meager furnishings, only the shrine could claim to be more accommodating. Nevertheless, he felt embarrassed; simultaneously fearing the samurai that accompanied Lord Hayashi would believe he was claiming undeserved station and that it was pathetically insufficient to host such an esteemed guest. Thankfully, Isamu gave no indication he cared.

I appreciate the hospitality, he said, speaking loudly enough to make it clear his words weren’t intended to be private.

It is my pleasure to serve… Shiro began, then trailed off when Lord Hayashi dismounted.

There was a stiffness to his daimyo’s movements that the noble tried to disguise. Initially, he wondered if he’d actually seen anything, but the moment Isamu’s feet touched the ground he was certain. The subtle grimace gave it away.

This way, my lord, he said, careful to set an easy pace, holding his tongue until they stepped inside and he slid the paneled door shut. You are hurt.

Isamu’s expression turned uneasy at the accusation. That hardly concerns—

Shiro growled. When my lord’s health is at risk it concerns me, he said. Are you being treated, or should I summon the town’s monk? He may not be a physician, but he possesses some medical knowledge.

Lord Hayashi’s expression hovered somewhere between annoyance and outright fury, but as Shiro forced himself to face the noble’s ire it seemed to dissolve. Few of my vassals are willing to challenge me these days. Perhaps I have become too accustomed to having my way. Isamu’s voice sounded heavy with fatigue, though he brightened slightly. It has been far too long since I last saw you. I never expected to find you here; I was unaware Peaceful Traveler Village even had a magistrate.

It is not supposed to, but after...well, this is where I ended up. Shiro moved into the room and gestured to the cushions beside the low kotatsu table. Please, sit.

Isamu turned the offer down with a shake of his head. You are wasted here. And your name! What happened?

What always happens when a family finds its reputation tarnished. It hardly matters now and I prefer to forget. Besides, you have more pressing worries, my lord.

Stop being so formal. No one else is here. Isamu stepped uncomfortably close, reaching out.

Without thinking Shiro retreated, pushing a hand between them to keep the noble at bay. My lord, please. Just… His voice faltered. Just tell me what happened.

Isamu stood motionless, his mouth half-open, then slowly turned away.

Oota Kin, he muttered, then growled under his breath. No, I cannot hang this from his neck alone. I grew too ambitious, but his inaction tipped the balance. Again.

I thought the other families had recovered. Does he still hold so much sway over military affairs? Shiro lowered his voice, hands clenched at his sides. Why is he still so influential, my lord? The whole point of all of this— He bit off the end of the sentence before he could say anything he would regret.

This should never have happened, Isamu answered sharply, then paused to check his tone. He took a breath before continuing. The way I handled the accusations against you was beyond generous. It was supposed to be clear I did not fault you for my father’s death.

Shiro saw no lie in the noble’s eyes, but Isamu’s words stung just the same. My family, along with the rest of the Wolf Clan, seems to disagree, he said as he retreated another step. I hoped you were keeping track of me, you know.

The words made Isamu flinch. I was not ready when this responsibility was thrust onto me, he admitted softly. I never dreamed that my first action would be to render judgment on a…on you.

There must have been many demands on your attention, Shiro said, matching Isamu’s volume, then pursed his lips. Silence stretched uncomfortably between them as the questions that had plagued him for years murmured, begging for a voice. Instead, he shook his head. None of this is important right now. You have not answered my question.

Isamu closed his eyes as if composing himself. Your sacrifice was enough to give me time to establish control, but I had to rely heavily on the Oota Family while the rest of the clan rebuilt.

And Oota Kin demanded concessions from those under his protection, Shiro said. Isamu didn’t respond. He didn’t need to. How many more of your soldiers should I expect before the Hitomi arrive?

None, fortunately.

At first, Shiro’s mind refused to register the answer. You were leading the rearguard? Personally?

The annoyed flick of Isamu’s ears told him the noble was becoming defensive again. It was the best way to ensure the Hitomi held their troops back. Capturing me would be too tempting to pass up, he said, waving his hand as if to brush aside any concerns. Besides, I was not fighting a traditional holding action—more of a rolling skirmish through their holdings.

That hardly makes it acceptable, my lord, Shiro countered, fighting to douse his anger. Oota Kin would have made almost as tempting a target. At least then he would be forced to put his troops to use. If he is going to demand special status it is the least you could expect in return.

Oota Kin proved exceptionally talented at withdrawing his men at the first whiff of danger, Isamu said evenly. By the time anyone noticed, it was impossible to get a messenger to him. I was forced to send word ahead that he is to hold Kyoudai Pass until I arrive.

And you think he will follow this command?

Lord Hayashi grinned viciously and let out a bitter chuckle. I think he will realize that this time he stepped too far, he growled, walking over to the window to peer outside. The other families have not missed that his troops were absent during the worst of the fighting. Nor have they forgotten that my father died under similar circumstances. When he turned back Shiro could see the anger smoldering behind his lord’s eyes. He needs to move carefully, and even so I intend to bleed every drop of payment I can while the bite of his actions remains fresh.

Shiro broke away from the intensity behind that gaze, feeling a tremor run through his body. There is still the matter of the Hitomi, my lord, he said cautiously, eager to shift topic in spite of his loathing for Oota Kin. May I have permission to evacuate the village?

Silence returned. At first, he thought Isamu was considering options, but when he looked back to his lord the pained expression he found sent a chill down his spine.

It is not so easy.

You are going to allow an evacuation. He wasn’t sure if he was asking or pleading. My lord, there are women and children here. What will the Hitomi do in retaliation when they arrive?

Isamu growled harshly, lifting his hand so suddenly that for an instant Shiro feared he would be struck. Instead, the noble pointed to the window.

Somewhere the Hitomi army is searching for my forces. I think they have lost the trail, but it will not last, Isamu said forcefully, then paused to check his volume before he continued. Meanwhile, my army has taken heavy losses, and I am not even sure where most of the survivors have gone. Until I have the opportunity to rally my forces, there is nothing to stop the rebels should they decide to push through Kyoudai Pass.

You would leave these people to their fate? Shiro asked, unable to keep the frustration out of his voice. If you are worried they will slow your troops I assure you there is nothing to fear, my lord.

That is not what I mean, Lord Hayashi said. Each word seemed to sap his energy. The women and children will be permitted to evacuate, you have my word, but I need someone to remain behind to stall the Hitomi advance.

Shiro stared at his daimyo, incredulous, then walked to the high cabinet on the other side of the room and leaned over it. His eyes closed so he could focus on the feel of the wood grain under his fingers. How many men does the enemy have?

Behind him, Isamu sighed. I know we faced at least twelve thousand on the field before being forced to withdraw. How many we slew I cannot say for certain, nor do I know if they have called up reserves.

And who is in command?

This time Lord Hayashi winced audibly. I saw Hitomi Ojin’s personal banner.

Shiro’s mouth went dry. He hadn’t thought Hitomi Ojin would ever lead another battle. Not after last time. The usurper was a brilliant commander, frighteningly methodical and persistent, but after losing two sons in a single day Shiro had hoped he’d been broken. Clearly, that wasn’t the case.

It took a moment to gather his composure before he was willing to face Isamu again. Would it be unreasonable to hope for substantial reinforcements within the next couple of days, my lord?

Most of my men are probably already through the pass, Isamu admitted, ears folding. If you need weapons I can command my men to leave theirs behind, but until my forces regroup I dare not risk splitting them further.

Slowly Shiro spread his hands and turned his palms up. Then it cannot be done, my lord. Not with what I have.

That is not acceptable, Lord Hayashi growled, teeth bared.

The unexpected hostility was nearly enough to rock him back on his heels as he tried to remember the last time Isamu had spoken to him in that tone. His hands clenched and he glanced out the window at the samurai and bushi assembled at the village, taking the opportunity to rest while supplies were drawn from the storehouse. Isamu obviously realized he couldn’t hold with the troops currently at his disposal, and yet he would demand it be done with fewer still?

Well, if that’s what you want to hear...

He bowed at the waist and closed his eyes. As you wish, my lord. I will conscript every male capable of fighting and scatter their army, he said, then looked up. After my inevitable victory, shall I march on their capital and put an end to this rebellion?

Are you mocking me? Lord Hayashi’s fingers twitched toward the grip of his katana.

I am merely suggesting other commands you may wish to give, Shiro said, straightening up. It is within your power to give such orders and I will attempt to carry them out. That does not make them possible to achieve.

The fingers on Isamu’s hand twitched again. Explain.

Shiro took a breath and ran a hand through his hair, ordering his thoughts, then carefully opened one of the cabinet’s drawers. My lord, this settlement is not particularly prosperous. That is why no one protested when I declared myself magistrate. Giving the position to any other would be seen as an insult. He paused to gauge Isamu’s reaction, but the noble’s expression had become inscrutable. If I call up every male capable of bearing arms I can field just over two hundred men, and since the garrison that normally occupies Kyoudai Pass’s fort has been stripped, I assume in preparation for this misadventure, all I shall command are conscripts. Few of them have weapons beyond farming implements.

Lord Hayashi accepted the news with remarkable grace considering his clear agitation. As I said, my troops can leave weapons behind.

He found the scroll he was looking for and carefully withdrew it from the drawer. A generous offer, my lord, but it only addresses one minor issue. As things stand now, it is impossible to prevent the Hitomi from crossing the river.

A determined defense would delay their advance, though, Isamu insisted. I am not asking you to destroy them. Simply buy me time.

There is nothing simple about what you want, my lord, he said and moved to the low table to unroll the scroll carefully without creasing the map it contained. You assume Hitomi Ojin will attack directly, but look here. And here. He indicated two points along the river while Lord Hayashi bent closer. There are two places where it is possible to ford the river less than a day’s march away. Hitomi Ojin’s scouts will find them. If I defend every point he could cross there will not be enough to contest a determined attack. With a little more patience he could gather enough troops to crush me in any case.

Isamu stared at the map then seemed to deflate, giving a reluctant nod. I should have realized immediately. I thought he would chase my tail, he said, taking a moment to consider the map more closely. Where did you get this? It is so detailed.

Peaceful Traveler Village is small, so my duties are not particularly demanding. I intended to chart the entire mountain range as a distraction, but it is still incomplete, Shiro said absently as he examined the map. Slowly his eyes strayed to the pass that led into the Seven Sister’s Mountains near the map’s edge. There may be something.

Lord Hayashi’s ears perked up. Have you thought of a way to stop them?

Shiro quickly retrieved another map from the cabinet and unrolled it. No my lord, but there are other options, he said as he pored over the new chart, taking note of the numerous side valleys that branched from Kyoudai Pass. You offered to leave behind weapons. Spears and bows would be most useful.

Of course, what have you— Lord Hayashi began.

Forgive the interruption, Shiro said, head dipped apologetically, I also need any men you can spare. At least enough to make up for the stripped garrison. A unit of cavalry would also be greatly appreciated.

The additional request made Isamu stiffen. I cannot lend troops lightly, Shiro. Especially not samurai. What are you planning?

Turning back to the first map, Shiro lightly tapped the bridge. Hitomi Ojin has many options to push through the mountain range, my lord, but controlling this bridge would make his task easier. We can use that against him.

Burn the bridge? Isamu asked, skeptically glancing at the nearby fords.

No, my lord. I intend to encourage him to seize it, Shiro said. The Hitomi do not need to follow directly behind you, but doing so gives them the best chance to catch your forces before you can fully regroup. Hitomi Ojin would certainly prefer to capture the bridge intact.

I fail to see how encouraging him to take the easiest path aids me, Lord Hayashi said with a light growl.

Because that lets us control which route he shall use, my lord, Shiro explained and traced along the road into the pass with one finger. If he captures this bridge then he must come through Kyoudai Pass or there was no point, and he must bring most of his men unless he wishes to risk being outnumbered when he emerges.

So he comes through with his whole army on my heels. How does this help me? Lord Hayashi asked. Without time to call up reserves, we will be at a serious disadvantage even if I manage to rally my forces.

Shiro nodded his agreement. Of course, my lord, but this way you at least know for certain where to bring them, and I believe I can either slow Hitomi Ojin’s advance or at least ensure a significant number of his men are unable to participate in battle.

How?

Once again Shiro pointed to the Kyoudai Pass, then to the side valleys. There are many places a small force can be concealed, and a full army will be unable to sustain itself by foraging alone—especially if they are not permitted to capture any food. All supplies will need to be brought from their holdings. I can harass that lifeline.

Forcing him to either slow down until enough supplies can be brought forward or tying down his men by making them hunt for you, Isamu whispered, eyes on the maps spread before him. I had not considered such a possibility. It is not the most honorable approach. You are comfortable with this, Shiro?

Concerned about staining my honor, my lord? Shiro asked, unable to conceal his amusement at the grim humor that notion carried. There is little chance of that, I think. If you give the command I will do everything necessary, but I need the extra troops to succeed.

Very well, Isamu said, rising carefully with a hand over his left side. I will leave behind what bushi I can and see if there are any cavalry to spare. Hopefully, you are correct.

Shiro rerolled his maps while he waited on Isamu. Then I shall conscript the villagers immediately, my lord.

When they reached the door Isamu paused, leaning against the frame. Confused, Shiro took a step back, wondering if perhaps his daimyo was concerned about emerging in such close company with a rōnin. Still, Lord Hayashi remained where he was, eyes closed.

My lord, are you well?

Isamu slowly turned to face him again. I am truly sorry to ask this of you, he said softly. You have already sacrificed too much for me. After this is finished I will do everything in my power to see you restored to my side. I truly hope you will forgive my failures.

The emotion he sensed behind the words shocked Shiro to silence. He swallowed hard to clear his throat before answering. I will do everything in my power to aid you, my lord, he said carefully, looking to the ground. Afterward, if I am successful, perhaps we can speak again.

As you wish. Hayashi Isamu smiled sadly, then slid the door open and left.

Once it had resupplied, Lord Hayashi’s force departed without fanfare. Shiro watched them go, his thoughts alight from the sheer magnitude of what he needed to accomplish. There was no way to tell how much time remained before the enemy arrived. In the best case, Hitomi Ojin’s forces had scattered while attempting to trap Lord Hayashi and were perhaps a week behind. At worst they would arrive in a couple of days. Most likely the truth lay somewhere in the middle.

He inhaled through his nose and closed his eyes, struggling to push his doubts away. Isamu had asked for this, nothing else mattered. Even now that was enough. It had to be. If he simply focused on what he could affect, everything else would fall into place. He’d have his answers soon enough, one way or the other.

A few seconds was all he needed to prepare, using the time to gather himself before he turned toward the dozen bushi Lord Hayashi had elected leave behind. Despondent expressions looked back, most refusing to meet his eyes. One, a younger bushi armed with a bow, attempted to put on a brave face. There was no mistaking that expression: the pup was sure they were about to die. All of them were, just like last time.

The realization pulled on something deep inside him, drawing out a low rumble. It was as if the moment Lord Hayashi had departed every ounce of courage they possessed left with him. Shiro didn’t even wait for the growl to fade before he strode directly toward them, left hand resting on the hilt of his katana.

I see all of you are all still here, he said as he walked down the line. He allowed himself to smile enough to flash the tips of his teeth, ears perked forward while he fixed each bushi in turn with a stern glare.

The young archer tried—and failed—to step back without being too obvious. What’s that supposed to mean? Who are you?

Shiro turned his gaze on the younger wolf and held it steady, looking right into the bushi’s eyes. Without realizing it he allowed his smile to widen crookedly, glad that at least one still had enough nerve to speak up.

I am Lieutenant Shiro. Lord Hayashi has determined I am the one best suited to stop this fiasco from getting any worse, he said, watching the young bushi squirm under his scrutiny. You have the honor of assisting me, provided you do not flee as I was told to expect.

Inwardly he winced as the lie passed his lips, though tainted as his honor was it shouldn’t have mattered. At least the comment had the intended effect. Each bushi straightened slightly, unable to hide their shock at the accusation. Once again it was the youngest that spoke out.

Who said that? he growled before several others echoed his question.

Fighting back a smile, Shiro considered the young bushi. Who are you?

Ryo, sir.

Shiro tucked that name away for later. Are you a coward, Ryo? he asked and stepped closer, showing his teeth once more. I do not have time for cowards, so if you intend to crawl away in the night please save me the trouble and tell me now. I will sign travel papers to release you from my service so you can tuck tail and flee in safety.

Ryo looked as if he wished to vanish as he was singled out. Shiro watched quietly, wondering if the bushi would do the smart thing and take the chance to save his hide or if youthful pride would win out. The others were careful to look away, but their ears remained perked