After days of resting in the infirmary, Hoshiyo finally felt strong enough to leave her bed. She slowly rose, her body still sore, but her resolve pushed her forward. Wrapping herself in two thick robes to guard against the biting cold, she quietly slipped out of the large room and into the hallway. She made her way to the back door, her footsteps soft on the wooden floor. The door creaked as she opened it, revealing a snow-covered traditional Japanese garden bathed in the soft light of a winter morning. The once vibrant greenery was white, the koi pond frozen, and the trees dusted with snow. Hoshiyo tightened the robes around her, bracing against the chill as she stepped outside.
Her sisters gathered in the garden—Rei, Takeko, Ceres, Motoko, Seiko, Yoko, Utaku, and Rokuko. They stood quietly, watching the snow fall, their breaths visible in the cold air.
"I'm glad you're all here," she began, her voice steady but tinged with frustration. "We need to talk about what's happening on the island. What we faced in that battle—" she paused, her breath hitching as she recalled the horrors they had witnessed, "—we barely made it through. We nearly failed, and we can't let that happen again. Not if we want to protect the island and its people."
The sisters exchanged glances, nodding in agreement. Hoshiyo's frustration was shared among them all.
Takeko was the first to speak, her voice calm but serious. "The Islanders are strong but not trained for what's coming. They don't know how to defend themselves, unlike we do."
Hoshiyo nodded, her gaze hardening as she looked at each of her sisters. "We need to teach them. Train them to fight—properly. Not just to survive but to defend their homes and protect their families. We can't always be there, but we can give them the tools to stand independently."
Rei stepped forward, her hands clasped in front of her. "Our concerns do not all fall on barbaric battles. Many are shifting uncontrollably, struggling between their wolf and human forms. We need to help them manage that, too. If they can control when and how they shift, it'll strengthen them in battle and their daily lives."
Seiko, always thoughtful, added, "And their homes—most of the village is still built for humans, not for shapeshifters. If we work with them, we could help them rebuild in a way that suits both forms. Places where they can feel safe no matter their shape."
The idea settled over the group, and Hoshiyo felt a flicker of hope amidst her frustration. "Exactly," she said, her voice growing more confident. "We need to think beyond just one battle or one mission. A long-term survival for the islanders and us."
Ceres, who had been quietly listening, spoke up. "We can split the tasks. Some of us can focus on training, while others help rebuild."
Hoshiyo exhaled, watching her breath vanish into the cold air. "The masters can also assist in the efforts to help the wolves adjust to their new lifestyles."
The sisters stood in a circle, the snow falling around them. The garden was serene, starkly contrasting the harsh reality they had faced just days ago. But in that moment, surrounded by her sisters, Hoshiyo felt renewed purpose as everyone united their thoughtful ideas.
The sliding doors behind them opened, interrupting their conversation. Kuzunoha stepped out into the snowy garden, her human form draped in layers of traditional robes to guard against the cold. Her presence was calming, and her movements were graceful as she approached the gathering.
"Forgive me for interrupting," Kuzunoha said softly, politely bowing to the siblings. Her wise and gentle eyes rested on Hoshiyo. "I couldn't help but overhear your conversation. It's good to hear you're considering spreading the masters' teachings across the island. I am grateful you chose to wait for the right opportunity to discuss these circumstances."
Hoshiyo returned the bow, curious as to why Kuzunoha had come to speak with them. "It's something we've been considering. The islanders need more than protection—guidance, training, and knowledge. We want to do what we can to help them."
Kuzunoha smiled warmly. "That's admirable, Hoshiyo. We can start by addressing one of the most pressing needs—medical care. A village west of our location has been suffering greatly, with many injured and no proper means of treating them. Their healers lack the necessary supplies, and I plan to visit them soon."
Rei stepped forward, immediately intrigued. "What sort of supplies are they missing?"
Kuzunoha's eyes brightened as her star pupil brought joy to her heart. "Among other things, they desperately need a specific medicine to treat swelling from sprains, bruises, and fractures. It's called Jidabokuippo, which we use to ease pain and reduce inflammation. One of the main ingredients is cinnamon bark, which grows in the forests near the village. I was hoping to collect some on my journey."
Hoshiyo listened carefully, her interest piqued. "Cinnamon bark? I've heard of it but didn't realize it had such medicinal properties."
Kuzunoha nodded. "Indeed. If we can gather enough, we'll be able to create a steady supply of Jidabokuippo for that village and many others in need. Our mission could save lives, and I want you and Rei to join me."
Rei glanced at Hoshiyo, eager to join the mission. "We'd be honored to help," she said, her voice firm with purpose. We've seen firsthand the toll injuries can take on the villagers. If we can make a difference, we should."
Hoshiyo looked around at her sisters, feeling their support even in silence. She took a deep breath, considering Kuzunoha's offer. "You're right. This is exactly the kind of work we need to do—helping people by fighting and giving them the tools they need to heal and grow. I'm in."
Kuzunoha smiled, her eyes gleaming with approval. "Excellent. We'll leave at first light. The journey will take us through the mountains, but the reward will be worth it."
Takeko hesitated before speaking, the weight of her unspoken thoughts tugging at her. She felt left out, knowing she wouldn't be part of Hoshiyo's first training with a new master. But that wasn't the only thing gnawing at her. She raised her hand to catch everyone's attention and said, "I'm happy we have a mission for Hoshiyo, but someone still needs to focus on finding answers about shapeshifting. We should be able to control our transformations, yet none of us have managed that."
Hoshiyo looked up, letting the snowflakes melt against her skin, the mention of shapeshifting stirring the familiar ache in her head. It was a conversation that weighed on her constantly. "If any of you want to focus on that, by all means, do so," she said, her voice steady but firm. "But right now, our priority is the island. I've managed to push the Shogun away for now, but he'll be back with a much larger army. We need all the training we can get."
"If you say so," Rokuko muttered under her breath.
Hoshiyo turned sharply, feeling the sting of Rokuko's words like a slap. "Do you have a better idea?" she asked, her tone hardening.
Rokuko shook her head, choosing silence over confrontation. There was a quiet tension in the air—some sisters, like Takeko, believed the shapeshifting issue needed to be solved first, thinking everything else would follow. Others were too weary to care about such nuances. All they wanted was a peaceful resolution, regardless of its path. But for Hoshiyo, the urgency of the island's survival overshadowed all other concerns. Time was running out, and they couldn't afford any distractions.
Hoshiyo sensed the tension in the air but chose to avoid further conflict. Keeping her composure, she lifted her chin and said, "If there are no other concerns, we'll conclude this meeting. I'll be preparing for tomorrow in the infirmary with Rei and Kuzunoha. If you have any questions or need anything, don't hesitate to reach out. Good luck with your tasks." With that, she turned and walked away with the medical team, leaving the others huddled together, their whispers filling the air.
"She's overthinking everything," Rokuko murmured, her voice low. "We'd get more done focusing on one issue at a time instead of tackling everything at once."
Takeko quickly pressed a finger to her lips. "Shh, she might hear you."
Seiko stepped forward with Yoko by her side and added gently, "You can't blame her. She's been through a lot. Trauma affects everyone differently, and we should respect that."
Ceres folded her arms, her expression hard. "We've all been through similar things. She's no different from the rest of us."
Utaku mumbled in agreement while Yoko, clinging to Seiko, whispered, "Don't forget she fought the Shogun—and won. Her sword skills are unmatched, and yet she's the one who pulled it off."
Takeko nodded. "I just don't want her to feel like she has to carry this burden alone. We've talked to her about it, but she's still determined to face everything alone. We need to show her we're here to help."
The group fell into a reflective silence, each knowing the others were right. Hoshiyo had taken on the role of the leader, always trying to protect them, but she was carrying too much. Though they followed her, they had never felt genuinely equal in her eyes. One day, they hoped to change that—but for now, they resolved to support her, lighten her load, and help her see that they stood by her as more than just followers.
Hoshiyo led her small medical team through the house's corridors, their footsteps quiet against the wooden floor. They stopped at the large sliding doors marked "Infirmary" in delicate cursive.
Kuzunoha began pulling out several worn brown leather bags, methodically packing supplies from her office. "We need to bring as much as possible for the western village," she said, calm but urgent.
Rei hesitated, glancing at the growing pile of bags. "Wait, how are we supposed to carry all of this?"
Without looking up, Kuzunoha chuckled as she neatly arranged the items. "Do you remember the wolf who left his carriage behind when you brought the Kami to our doorstep?"
Hoshiyo nodded, her brow furrowing. "Yes, I remember. But we don't have anyone to pull the cart now."
Kuzunoha, unfazed, hefted a few bags onto her shoulder and made her way toward the sliding doors. "Grab the rest, and I'll show you."
"Show us what?" Hoshiyo asked, curious yet wary.
Rei sighed, already lifting two bags into her arms. "Trust me, it's better not to question her. Let's get moving."
Hoshiyo, sensing no use in pressing for answers, quietly grabbed the remaining bags and followed them outside. She trailed behind the others, her mind curious about Kuzunoha's plan. They moved past the front garden and toward the first gate, where, to her surprise, the old dark brown carriage stood waiting for them.
Kuzunoha loaded the bags onto the old brown carriage with a prominent smile. Hoshiyo and Rei stood by, watching her in silence, both curious about what their master had in mind. After securing the last supplies, Kuzunoha dusted off her hands and turned to face them, a glint of mischief in her eyes.
"I know you're both wondering why I've been so secretive about our agendas," Kuzunoha said, leaning casually against the cart. "There's a reason for that."
Hoshiyo crossed her arms, tilting her head slightly. "What are you hiding?"
Rei nodded, her brows knitting together. "You never keep us in the dark like this. What's going on?"
Kuzunoha smiled knowingly. "I've been working on something that might solve our biggest problem—our inability to control our transformations. I've discovered a technique that allows me to shift between my human and fox forms at will."
Hoshiyo sighed her tone a mix of awe and resignation. "I'm not surprised. You've known how to shift for years."
"Years?" Rei raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued. "Kuzunoha's been around as long as the island's history, practically."
Kuzunoha chuckled softly, nodding. "Indeed. It took time, patience, and practice, especially after I had my children. But I mastered it. Now, it's time for you two to learn."
Hoshiyo's heart raced, a flicker of excitement sparking inside her. The thought of controlling her transformations had always seemed like an unreachable dream. "You're telling us we can shift whenever we want?" she asked, her voice full of hope. "Why didn't you tell us sooner?"
"I needed to be certain. More research was required before I could confidently share this with you," Kuzunoha explained. Her gaze shifted to the cart. "And your first lesson starts now. You'll transform into wolves and pull this to the village. This is more than just physical strength—it's about control, balance, and embracing your dual nature."
Rei raised an eyebrow. "We're pulling the cart as wolves?"
"Yes," Kuzunoha said firmly. "You'll need to learn to summon your wolf form not in times of rage or desperation but with intent and purpose. This is your first step toward mastering your shapeshifting."
Hoshiyo glanced at Rei, both feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension. Controlling their transformations seemed like the key to unlocking a new power level, but it also seemed daunting.
"How do we even begin?" Hoshiyo asked.
Kuzunoha smiled, stepping closer to them. "It all starts with focus. Close your eyes and connect with the part of you that's always connected to the roots of this island. Feel the shift in your body—let the transformation come naturally, without force. Trust in it."
Hoshiyo closed her eyes and drew a deep, steady breath, grounding herself in the island's energy. It pulsed around her like invisible roots, stretching toward the wolf deep within her. She could feel a shadow coiled at her core, restless and waiting to be set free. Her muscles tensed as the familiar tingling sensation crept up her spine. She was no longer just herself; she was part of the forest, an extension of the thriving life around her.
Beside her, Rei mirrored her movements, standing still in the snowy silence. She synchronized her breathing with the soft rhythm of the falling snow, the cold air calming her mind. She found peace in the quiet as she reached inward, seeking her connection to the wolf waiting within.
Moments later, Hoshiyo's body began to glow faintly, and she felt the transformation take hold. Her limbs shortened, her senses sharpened, and her bones shifted with a soft crack. She opened her eyes, now in her wolf form, the world around her brighter and sharper than ever before.