The Spirit Princess

The days of gods and demons had long passed; they still remained but dormant as peace had come between the forests and most of the surrounding villages, to the exception of the unrest in the capitol. The Emperor’s son now ruled with a fist much more furious than his father’s. He was intent on finding the Emishi people of the East that had long escaped their destruction.

Princess Kaya had grown into a determined young woman, strong-willed, caring and brave, she had learnt to look to the future but still part of her held onto the past; wondering constantly of her brother’s fate. Whether he could provide hope for their people, their family. The Emishi people had managed to birth a new generation for their tribe in the many years since the departure of Ashitaka. But the people were surviving, just, and had managed to remain hidden from the Emperor’s eye. Kaya was an adventurous spirit and had become some what of a replacement for her brother, intent on helping and protecting her people. But the itch to find any reality in her thoughts had become consuming, and she had come to the conclusion that it was her destiny to set out in search of hope. She decided to go to the elders and tell them of her decision to adventure forth.

“Wise women, I know there is great possibility that Ashitaka has departed this world for the spirit one, but in my heart, my soul I believe there is a chance that his quest was not in vain and that he is healed, alive even.”

“My chi-ld one’s heart has a strong voice and there is none stronger that can retort. You shall leave, no matter what the outcome of my consent; I see this in your stones…

…You must consider this though Princess, like your brother, you too will not be permitted to return to our village, at least not for some time the Emperors army’s grow stronger and get closer everyday to unveiling our hideaway. Once you leave the enchantment that conceals our village, its location will become lost to you.”

“I understand the consequences of my leaving. I do it for selfless purpose though, for the Emishi people, I believe in Ashitaka and I believe he may be our last hope.”

“You speak truth my dear but you forget too soon, you are from the same blood, you too have his spirit and the true strength of the Emishi people survives within you…

Whatever comes to pass, you will find what you seek young Kaya. Farewell.”

“Thank you Grandmother, Farewell.”

Though the old woman had her head bowed now and her eyes closed, Kaya bent down and softly kissed her Grandmother’s cheek for the last time, a reassurance to her that she would be okay. With that she exited the meeting house, mounted her elk and disappeared into the night.