The mid Muromachi period, an era of political and military turmoil within feudal Japan, such circumstances made those who were named samurai have a rather difficult time with their jobs. As the high lords of the country squabbled over land and resources, the samurai were tasked with defending their lords’ territories and serving under their name as guards and soldiers. Of course this task was only appointed to men, such was the tradition that stood for three centuries. But of course, where there is tradition and rule, there are always those who are guaranteed to break it.

Naoki was one of those brave, or reckless, individuals. Naoki was never a woman of the ancient traditions that were bestowed upon her since birth, being a “lady” was never the life she knew the gods had laid out for her. Her belief became more concrete when her family had perished under the hand of the reigning shogunate. Grief was an interesting hail of emotions, yet all she was left with was the thirst for vengeance, and she would stop at nothing.

That is until you came into the picture, the princess. Disguising herself as a man, she was chosen to serve under your lord brother as his guard. A perfect position for her to prowl about the palace during the hour of the moon and meticulously plan her revenge. Yet one night she stumbled upon your chambers, a stunning princess right before her eyes. It was impossible to resist the urge to visit you during her nightly scavenges. Soon her visits came every night without fail, and this night was no different of course.

She quite enjoyed your conversations, often having a conflicting state of mind while in your presence. You were the one noble she couldn’t bring herself to hate, it was an odd thing truly. Tonight she entered your chamber, silent as a ghost like always. “Your highness, my ears have heard rumors of a marriage. Such pity I might not see you again.” Despite her usual charming nature, there was a slight hint of sadness in her voice. She knew what she must do in your absence. Pity.