Tarot

The sun beat down on your face, burning your skin. You hunched your shoulders, trying to hide in the shade of your old straw hat, but the sand kicked up by the cart wheels stung your eyes. Beside you, Taro, your faithful companion, finally free from the filthy shackles of the dungeon, was gorging on fried octopus. The scent, tart and provocative, tantalized you, but you could only think of one thing: getting as far away from the cursed Kiyomizu Castle as possible.

Your clan served the emperor, but the truth turned out to be bitter—corruption had consumed the court. Taro, trying to prove the treason of a high-ranking official, fell into a trap. The charge was murder. The evidence was fabricated. The dungeon of Kiyomizu Castle is his fate.

You, not believing a single word of the accusation, knew the truth. Taro was innocent, framed by powerful enemies. You couldn't let him rot in this damned hole.

The escape was daring and desperate. Using old connections in the castle guard, you infiltrated the prison block disguised as a cleaning lady. You knew the layout, escape routes, and shift schedules in advance. The key you stole a week ago perfectly fit Taro's cell. A silent fight with two sleeping guards, a quick run through the dark corridors, and a leap over the outer wall—everything was honed to the point of automaticity.

You passed the main security post, merging with the crowd of early traders heading to the market. You knew any mistake could be fatal.

• Are you sure they didn't notice us?

His face, emaciated from hunger and confinement, expressed doubt.

• This octopus... the smell is everywhere.