Commander Hideki, a man with a sharp gaze hardened by the rigors of combat, stood in respectful silence before the majestic presence of Marshal Yoshijiro Yokoyama.

As he delved into reading reports that flooded the room, the figure of the enigmatic “The King in Yellow” lingered in the air, like a shadow lurking in the twilight. Disbelief etched on his face; he was unable to accept unquestionably the veracity of tales circulating among the barbarian prisoners from the west. However, the imperious voice of the empress had spoken, and her mandate was clear: capture that man, dead or alive.

“Very well,” announced Marshal Yokoyama. “You will depart for the western regions.”

Commander Hideki’s gaze, however, did not hide his intrigue. He arched an eyebrow, seeking to understand the details of this unusual mission.

“With the army?” he asked, puzzled.

Marshal Yokoyama, with a firm and categorical gesture, made clear the scope of his plan.

“No. Just with a platoon of reikan. This is not a war campaign. I only need someone to sneak in and gather information about this ‘The King in Yellow.’ You are a loyal man; you have proven your bravery in years of combat, and your experience will be of great help to our troops. But listen well.”

The commander straightened, ready to receive his instructions.

“Marshal?”

Yokoyama maintained his fixed gaze on Hideki, conveying the gravity of his determination.

“If you can put an end to that mad prophet, do it. We do not need a madman preaching nonsense that incites rebellion... Even better! If you can capture him, bring him back chained like a dog, so that the empress herself can interrogate him.”

“I understand, marshal,” Hideki replied with a firm voice, accepting the responsibility assigned to him. “But how can I identify this ‘The King in Yellow’ among the ranks of the barbarians?”

The marshal, without shifting his gaze, shared a glint of wisdom in his eyes.

“Prisoners who have returned have spoken of his charisma, his ability to attract followers to his heretical cause. Look among the barbarians for someone who stands out, who is the center of attention, someone who inspires fanaticism in their followers. That could be our man.”

Hideki nodded, understanding the strategy. Yet, a flicker of concern showed in his gaze.

“Marshal, what if this ‘The King in Yellow’ is backed by dark powers, by those very forces his sect worships?” he asked, nervously.

He smiled, but it was not a smile of confidence, but one of mockery.

“Those are old wives’ tales! We cannot afford to believe in dark powers. Any man, no matter how charismatic or fanatical, is still a man. And a man can be defeated.”

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“Understood, marshal,” he responded, but there was no determination in his voice. “I will do my utmost to fulfill your order.”

The marshal offered a faint smile, trying to instill confidence.

“I know you will, Hideki. You are an exemplary soldier, and you have a great future ahead. In fact, if you complete this mission successfully, I will send a personal recommendation to the empress to grant you the rank of Senior Commander.”

Hideki was breathless at such a proposal. It was to be expected; it was an immense honor and a unique opportunity. The rank of Senior Commander was one of the highest in the army. There were only ten Senior Commanders in the entire empire, and all of them were men of great prestige and power. And Hideki Miyoshi, who had been under his tutelage for years, was a promising man, though sometimes unyielding in his beliefs and approaches. However, his fitness for the position was undeniable.

“Me? A Senior Commander?” stammered Hideki, incredulous.

“Don’t be surprised,” the marshal said with a paternal tone. “I expect that someday you will become a General Commander. You have the potential and the will for it.”

Hideki felt overwhelmed with emotion. He knelt before him and made three deep bows as a sign of gratitude and respect.

“Thank you, marshal,” he said with a choked voice. “I do not know how to thank you for your trust and generosity.”

He gestured with his hand for Hideki to rise.

“There is nothing to thank me for, Hideki. I am just doing my duty to recognize the merit and talent of my subordinates. Now stand up, and tell me if you have any doubts about the mission.”

Hideki stood up quickly.

“Yes, marshal,” he said with resolve. “There is something that has intrigued me for some time, and I think now is the right moment to ask you.”

He arched an eyebrow, intrigued by the curiosity of his pupil.

“Go ahead, Hideki,” he said indulgently. “You may ask me anything. I will not judge or punish you for it.”

Hideki took a deep breath and mustered courage.

“I wonder, marshal,” he said sincerely, “how is it possible that you, the best strategist and most loyal servant of the empire, have not been promoted at the imperial court. Why are you still just a Marshal when you could be so much more?”

He was silent for a moment, observing Hideki’s serious and innocent expression. Then he let out a sonorous laugh that echoed throughout the office.

“What an interesting question!” he exclaimed, amused. “And what audacity you have, Hideki. Most men wouldn’t dare to question my position, not even in private. But I see that you do not do it out of malice, but out of admiration. And that flatters and touches me.”

Hideki blushed, embarrassed.

“Forgive me, marshal,” he apologized. “I did not mean to offend or disrespect you.”

He shook his head and flicked his hand dismissively.

“Do not apologize, Hideki. You have asked a legitimate question, and you deserve an honest answer. But before I give it to you, I will make a suggestion. There is a book you should read, or rather, reread. A book that every good soldier should know and study.”

“What book is that, marshal?” Hideki asked, intrigued.

“The Book of Five Rings,” he replied. “I suppose you’ve already read it once, as part of your training.”

“Yes, marshal,” he confirmed. “I read it years ago when I entered the military academy.”

“Well,” he continued. “I suggest you read it again, with more attention and depth. In it, you will find the answer to your question. And also, to many others you may have asked yourself about the art of war and the way of the warrior.”

Hideki nodded with respect.

“I will do so, marshal,” he said obediently. “Thank you for your advice.”

“There is no need to thank me, Hideki. Now go, and prepare for your mission. May Buddha accompany and protect you.”

Hideki bowed one last time before him and left the office. The marshal watched him until he closed the door behind him. Then he leaned back in his chair and sighed.

“The answer, young Miyoshi,” he thought, “is that I do not want to be more than a marshal. I do not aspire to the honors and intrigues of the imperial court. I only want to serve the empire and the empress with my sword and my mind. And above all, I do not want to have to deal with so much paperwork.”