Chapter 3 :-
The soft light of dawn spread across Taihei Sati village, casting a golden hue over the mist-laced fields. Birds chirped melodiously as the world slowly awakened. Keedo, without even having breakfast, left his home with a light smile playing on his lips. His destination was clear—Hana's house.
He approached the small wooden gate and called out gently, "Yama-sa, is Hana home?"
Her father, Yama-sa, appeared at the door, his expression gentle. Before he could answer, Hana's voice rang out joyfully.
"Keedo!" she called, her face lighting up as she rushed to the door. "I'm ready!"
Keedo chuckled. "Come on. Let's take a walk through the fields."
The two stepped out together into the crisp morning air. The sun had just begun to rise, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. As they strolled through the narrow paths between the rice paddies, laughter filled the air. They talked, teased, and occasionally chased each other like children, enjoying each other's company in the quiet serenity of the countryside.
Birds soared through the sky, flapping their wings against the cool breeze. Dew still clung to the grass, and a few cherry blossoms danced down from the trees.
"Hana," Keedo said, glancing at her, "the Seion-Yama pilgrimage starts the day after tomorrow, right?"
Hana nodded excitedly. "Yes! We'll have so much fun again—praying to Lord Buddha, and of course, more adventures on the way!"
Keedo smiled. "I was wondering… What wish will you make this time?"
She paused for a moment, her cheeks turning pink. "Huh? I… I—" she stammered, then blushed furiously and ran ahead, hiding her smile.
"Hey! Tell me!" Keedo called out, laughing as he chased after her.
Back in the village square, a large crowd had gathered. The village chief, Ryuu, stood before the people. His voice echoed with authority and warmth.
"For 80 years, we have upheld this sacred tradition," he announced. "Each year, a group from Taihei Sati travels to Seion-Yama Mountain. There, in the Sayuri Village, we offer prayers at the Megun-ji Temple to Lord Buddha—for truth to always triumph, for peace to bless our land, and for harmony to reside in our hearts."
He paused, his gaze falling on the young faces before him.
"This year," he continued, "Keedo Sati, Hana Seto, Takeo, Hanako Seto, and ten others villagers will make the pilgrimage."
The crowd murmured with excitement.
"As per tradition, the group must remain at the mountain for 21 days," Ryuu added. "During that time, they will serve in the temple and offer prayers—not just for our village, but for peace across the world."
Keedo looked at Hana, who was smiling with quiet pride.
"Let's do our best," he said softly.
She nodded. "We will."
After the announcement, Keedo gently took Hana's hand and led her to a quiet corner of the field. Holding both her hands, he asked softly, "We're going again… Are you happy?"
Hana, blushing again, whispered, "Yes… I am."
Suddenly, Takeo burst in with a grin. "Look at these lovebirds again! Always in their own world. Hey hanako, your sister is way too naughty!"
Hanako and Hana burst into laughter, and even Keedo couldn't help but smile.
"You're asking for it, Takeo!" Keedo said, mock-threateningly.
They all broke into laughter, playfully chasing and teasing each other through the fields.
As the day drew to a close, Keedo walked Hana back home. The golden sunset bathed the village in warmth.
"Make sure to pack everything tonight," Keedo said. "And… take care, okay?"
Hana blushed. "You too… and… Keedo?"
"Yeah?"
"You're… cute," she mumbled, turning away quickly.
Keedo's ears turned red. "Uhm… thanks," he said with a smile. "See you tomorrow."
"Bye… take care!"
As Keedo reached home, he found his father, Ryuu, seated quietly. A heavy silence hung in the air.
"Father… why aren't you coming with us this year?" Keedo asked.
Ryuu sighed. "Son… my health isn't what it used to be. And Yama-sa is also worried about the same."
"Are you okay?" Keedo asked, concern etching his face. "You seemed fine yesterday."
"Just old age catching up to me," Ryuu replied with a faint smile. "Don't worry about me. Prepare for the journey. Buddha will protect you all."
Keedo nodded reluctantly. "Please take care of yourself."
Later that evening, Keedo packed his bag in silence. He could sense something in his father's words—an unspoken worry.
They had dinner together. Keedo soon retired to bed, and Ryuu remained behind with his wife, Taruko.
"What is it?" she asked him gently. "You've been worried all day."
Ryuu's eyes were lost in thought. "For the past 17 years, I've feared only one thing…"
Taruko leaned forward. "What is it, Ryuu?"
He didn't answer. A distant puff of wind stirred the flame in the lantern. Outside, smoke from the chimneys curled into the night sky like a silent omen.
End of Chapter - 3