Upon his return to Edo, Hiroshi wasted no time in seeking out Aiko. He found her at her family's home, still as beautiful and graceful as he remembered. Aiko's eyes filled with tears of joy when she saw him, and they embraced, their hearts full of love and relief.
"Hiroshi, I was so worried," Aiko said, her voice trembling. "I heard of the battles and feared for your safety."
"I'm here now, Aiko," Hiroshi replied softly, holding her close. "And I have fulfilled my promise to your father. I am now a samurai in the service of Lord Takeda."
Aiko's face lit up with hope. "Does this mean...?"
"Yes," Hiroshi confirmed, smiling. "I will speak to your father tonight."
That evening, Hiroshi met with Ichiro, detailing his achievements and newfound position. Ichiro listened intently, his stern expression softening as Hiroshi spoke.
"You have indeed proven yourself, Hiroshi," Ichiro said finally. "You have my blessing to marry Aiko."
The lovers were overjoyed, but their happiness was short-lived. Unbeknownst to them, a shadowy figure had been watching their reunion from the distance—Taro, the ambitious and jealous son of a rival merchant, who had long coveted Aiko for himself. Seeing Hiroshi as a threat to his desires, Taro vowed to take matters into his own hands.