Chapter 6
Elegance and Anticipation Before the Duel

Mayoko, with a note of solemnity in her voice, goes on to describe one of the most memorable moments of her life.

A great duel was arranged in the gokenin's courtyard, she begins. For the occasion, the household staff saw to it that I was prepared with an elegance worthy of a princess.

She closes her eyes for a moment, as if to recall the details more clearly. I was dressed in a kimono of deep midnight blue, evoking the mysterious essence of the night. The fabric, adorned with delicate floral motifs and mythological figures such as dragons and phoenixes, symbolised both strength and rebirth. She runs her hand gently along her arm, as if to feel the imaginary fabric. The motifs, woven in gold and silver thread, shimmered subtly in the light, adding a touch of refinement.

Her gaze lights up as she speaks of her hair. My black hair was arranged in a simple but elegant style, set off by understated kanzashi that lent a discreet sophistication without being too showy. She touches her hair as if to recall the feel of the ornaments. And of course, the matching obi emphasised my figure with natural grace. My make-up, deliberately restrained, brought out my natural beauty with just a touch of colour on the cheeks and lips.

Despite the festive atmosphere and the lavish preparations, Mayoko remains anchored in her tale, showing a remarkable strength of character. Although I had no idea of the gokenin's strength at ōgi, I remained calm, focused, and firmly resolved to face him by playing at my very best.

The anticipation is palpable in the room as the listeners imagine Mayoko, like a warrior princess, preparing to confront a formidable opponent in a game of ōgi that promises to be as intense as it is symbolic.