Chapter 37 Part 1: A Price on the Head

The rising sun crested over the eastern hills, bathing the sprawling city of Edo in warm golden light. Gin Kagiri strode silently through the awakening city, his 'geta' sandals making a sound on the cobblestones.

Though aged, with flowing white hair and a long beard, he moved with a winding grace. His black kimono rippled faintly as he walked, the fabric worn thin with use.

The busy market streets began to stir, vendors unfolding their stalls as the scent of grilled fish and simmering broths filled the crisp morning air.

Another day, another bounty, he thought grimly. His joints ached more fiercely with each passing year. But he had his duty. The Emperor's coin fed his belly, however tasteless it had become.

As the sun broke over the hills, washing the city in gold, Gin felt a pang of longing. To be a simple monk, living quietly amidst the maple-shaded hills and mist-veiled temples. No more blood on his hands. Only prayer and contemplation as the sun rose and set.

But that was not his fate. With a sigh, shifted the position of the wooden sword he had come to possess after he relinquished his remarkable long samurai sword to Kazuki. He moved forward, navigating through the stirring streets where the city was coming to life. His next bounty awaited.

Gin made his way through the winding streets towards the imperial palace. As he approached the towering vermilion gates, they swung open to reveal two young maids awaiting him.

"Gin-sama!" they cried in unison, rushing forward to greet him. Both were no more than twenty, with long black hair pinned up gracefully and wearing vivid pink kimonos patterned with sakura blossoms. Their eyes shone with admiration for the grizzled bounty hunter.

Gin smiled wryly beneath his black bamboo hat he had purchased recently. "No need for such formality, girls. I'm just an old fool who chases trouble for coin."

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The maids giggled. "Tell us of your exploits, Gin-sama!" said one. "Did you battle demons in the shadowed forests of the north?"

"Or cross swords with the Black Clan shinobi in the dead of night?" asked the other.

Gin laughed. "My tales grow wilder with each telling! But very well..." He leaned in conspiratorially. "Would you believe I regrew my lost arm through sheer force of will to defeat a man who could not die?"

The maids erupted in laughter. Gin waved his right arm. "Alas, you got me, as you can see, I'm still short one arm." A smirk tugged at his lips.

As their laughter subsided, Gin regarded the two fondly. "It's good to see your lovely faces. But why don't you both leave the palace and get married?"

The maids bowed their heads demurely. "You honor us, Gin-sama," said one. "But we are bound to serve the emperor, as our mothers served before us."

Gin sighed. "Yes, yes, I know... why did i even ask." He flicked his wrist dismissively. "I've heard it a thousand times."

The maids smiled patiently. "Come, Gin-sama. Emperor Jimmu awaits." They turned and led the way into the imperial palace, their silk kimonos swishing softly as they walked.

The samurai guards flanked the throne, their armor polished to a mirror-like shine. They stood as immovable as stone, eyes forward and swords gleaming menacingly in the sunlight that poured in through towering windows.

Despite their stoic demeanor, Gin could sense the tension in their stances – they were ever alert to the smallest threat.

Emperor Jimmu sat upon his throne, surrounded by his maids and geishas, who fussed over him like doting mothers. Their faces were painted with delicate artistry, and they wore exquisite kimonos in vibrant hues, their obi sashes adorned with brilliantly embroidered patterns.

As Gin approached, he couldn't help but marvel at the display of wealth and power that surrounded him.

It was a stark contrast to the world outside, where people fought for survival on a daily basis. He knew better than anyone the sacrifices made to maintain the emperor's lavish lifestyle, and it weighed heavily on his heart.

But now was not the time for such thoughts. Gin bowed deeply before Emperor Jimmu, his one arm held across his chest in a show of respect. The emperor's gaze fell upon him, and Gin could feel the weight of his scrutiny.

"Rise, Gin Kagiri," commanded Emperor Jimmu. "We have much to discuss."