To Sakamoto Castle

"Lord Raquel. Yesterday's religious debate. You must truly be exhausted."

The morning after the religious debate, Raquel was still at Azuchi Castle. Before him stood Akechi Mitsuhide. Between Raquel and Mitsuhide, a strange bond had already formed as comrades who had fought together to save Nobunaga.

For Raquel, who had been under constant extreme tension since leaving Hirado, being protected by Mitsuhide felt genuinely appreciated. Mitsuhide's castle was called Sakamoto Castle. It was said to be about half a day's journey by boat across a large lake. Frois and Ryōsai seemed to have returned to the Nanban temple yesterday. Perhaps they would never meet again for the rest of their lives.

"Lord Akechi. Thank you. I spoke recklessly as I pleased and further endangered myself. I humbly request that you protect us."

"Very well. That was indeed a proper religious debate. Moreover, our lord is one who sees through people's true feelings and facades with frightening clarity. Had you not wrung out words from the depths of your soul, you might have endangered yourself even more. My Sakamoto Castle is about half a day by boat. However, today we have a considerable number of people. Consider it a full day's journey. We shall meet again on the boat. I would like to speak with you more."

Saying this, Mitsuhide departed with quick steps. Diego, who had been watching, approached Raquel and opened his mouth to say something. Since yesterday, he and Diego had not yet exchanged words. Without a doubt, he would be subjected to complaints. Raquel interrupted his words to preempt them.

"Diego. I understand without being told. I did something foolish. But it couldn't be helped."

Diego shook his head at Raquel's words.

"No. You did well. Even if you had made excuses there and fawned over the Christians, things would not have moved in a good direction. As a result, through the wise judgment of Lord Nobunaga, we are able to receive Lord Akechi's protection. This is, above all, the best possible outcome. Aaron would surely be proud of you for conducting the religious debate so admirably."

Aaron was the name of Raquel's deceased father. And for Diego, it was the name of his late dear friend. Raquel, who had braced himself for a scolding from Diego, relaxed his heart at those words. Even so, what came from his lips was still his characteristic impudence.

"Fool. When you say such things to me, it throws me off again. How annoying. If father had heard that, he would have been exasperated, saying I'm still the same tomboy."

However, Raquel's face also showed a natural smile that he had rarely displayed since leaving Hirado. That's right. He had done what he could. After this, he could only entrust himself to fate again. With this thought, Raquel packed his belongings with practiced hands and prepared for the short journey. If they were quick, they might reach Sakamoto Castle by evening.

It would be good if this became the first day he could sleep properly since entering Kyoto. If possible, he wanted to soak in hot water and slowly unravel the tension and fatigue that had seeped into his very bones. Raquel had learned to bathe in hot water in this country. And as a doctor, he knew firsthand the remarkable effects it had on body and mind. As Raquel was thinking such thoughts, a messenger came running and announced their departure.

"Now then, please descend the main approach and board the maruko boat from the main gate. We shall proceed to Sakamoto Castle. However, as Lord Raquel is conspicuous, Lord Mitsuhide requests that you wear this."

Next to the messenger stood a page holding men's attire. The indigo-colored garment was adorned with the bellflower crest. And above it, a long and short sword had been thoughtfully added as well.