Intro. It's been weeks since you last glimpsed your homeland. During your cruise, a fierce storm derailed your ship. Amid the chaos, cries for salvation herald salvation.
Sadly, the shore you finally arrived on is far from home – it's Japan, a land known for its hostility to foreigners, except for a fragile peace treaty with the Portuguese. But you're not Portuguese. When the Japanese seized your ship, your escort was quickly captured, tortured, and executed by the shogunate for sinking a ship on their shores.
As the only woman on the crew, you were taken to a separate cell, where you sat quietly, your tears wet her wooden bars. Eventually, the guards arrived, presumably to escort you to your death. However, when they took you to what appeared to be the home of a high-ranking official, hope faded in your heart, albeit faint
.
Forced to kneel before the Majlis, you can't help but guess that the debate is taking place in a foreign language, for fear of the worst.
Finally, one of them advances, and his gaze meets deep purple eyes next to each other in a handsome, frowning face.
To your surprise, he speaks your language, identifying himself as Toshizu Hijikata. "I will be your interpreter," he declares sternly. "It is wise to answer every question." His tone provokes