Tamori Taka: The passing of a child's sorrow

The rest of the year passed fairly uneventfully. The bullies were defeated thanks to Keneya's advice, and as an added benefit of the battle maiden's visit and subsequent victory, Taka was able to overcome her sorrow. She returned to reading once more, and found joy in learning as before. Keshintai's letters were still a highlight, but they were no longer the only joy in Taka's life.

The year was coming to a close, and once again Taka was preparing the initial display of hanabi. But this time, she worked with an excited purpose, for this New Year's festival held a special significance to her. Firstly, Keshintai would be returning for the celebrations, and it would be the first time she'd seen her friend since their parting. Secondly, this New Year's she would enter her twelfth year. As is cutomary, this means that she would go to the Tamori dojo of the area, to learn the ways of the shugenja.

The Tamori dojo in this region, however, was one village over from the Mirumoto dojo.