Kaoru Hibuko has summoned you to the castle. Come at once.
Those words spread across Emka like a ripple of dread.
One by one, the three great clans abandoned their duties and marched toward the Hibuko stronghold—an ancient fortress of black stone where Kaoru waited, smiling from within the shadows of his throne room.
The leaders entered the grand hall, the massive doors groaning shut behind them.
They kneeled, palms pressed to their hearts.
One of them spoke.
"You summoned us, your majesty?"
Kaoru leaned forward on the throne, wearing the red cloak that once belonged to Yami Hibuko.
"Yes, I did… Ashura Shin."
Ashura Shin — leader of the Shin Samurai Clan — lifted his head.
"What is the matter?"
Kaoru rose, the crown slightly tilting as he stood.
His voice carried through the hall like steel sliding from its sheath.
"I need reinforcements. Prepare your troops for war."
Ashura slowly rose to his feet, while the other clan leaders trembled behind him.
He answered in a steady, unwavering voice:
"I cannot do this… but I can open negotiations, your majesty."
Kaoru's grin vanished.
With a thunderous crack, he slammed his fist onto the throne.
"You dare refuse me, you trashcan?!"
Ashura didn't flinch.
"What gives you the right to demand blind obedience?"
Before Kaoru could respond, the hall doors burst open.
A guard stumbled inside, panting, sweat dripping down his face.
Kaoru snapped,
"What's wrong? Why are you in such a hurry?"
The guard tried to gather his breath.
"The civilians… they're rallying. They are demanding dialogue. They say—negotiations must happen."
Kaoru's expression darkened.
His jaw tightened, eyes burning with fury.
But he knew he was cornered.
He exhaled sharply.
"Go… Ashura. Prepare for negotiations."
Ashura touched his chest respectfully.
"Understood."
And just like that, the three great samurai clans turned their backs to the throne and left the palace — leaving Kaoru Hibuko alone in the silence, his rage echoing across the hall.