The Last Bargain

Chapter XXI: The Mirror Gate

The light from the old lantern flickered, casting long shadows across Seimei's hut. The air inside was thick with smoke and the pungent scent of herbs, but Zento and Shin remained focused on the old hermit seated before them. His eyes, sharp and bright despite his years, seemed to see into their very souls.

Seimei leaned forward, his expression suddenly serious. "If you wish to enter the gods' domain, there are steps you must take. The way is not straightforward, and the gods will not allow you passage without testing your resolve."

Shin frowned, his hand gripping his weapon tightly. "You mentioned confronting our deepest fears," he said cautiously. "What does that mean?"

Seimei smiled, a strange, knowing smile. "The gods' domain is a place that exists beyond the physical world, where thoughts, memories, and desires take form. To reach it, you must pass through the Mirror Gate."

Zento exchanged a wary glance with Shin. "The Mirror Gate?"

Seimei nodded, his smile fading. "An ancient portal that lies hidden deep in these woods, guarded by spirits who serve the gods. It is said to reflect the soul of anyone who dares to enter. To pass through, you must confront what lies within—your fears, your regrets, the shadows of your past. Only by facing these can you gain entry to the gods' realm."

Shin swallowed hard, his voice uncertain. "And if we fail?"

Seimei's eyes glittered in the dim light. "If you fail, the Mirror Gate will consume you. You will become lost in its reflections, trapped in a labyrinth of your own making."

Zento felt a shiver run down his spine. "We don't have a choice," he said, trying to sound resolute. "Raito's in there, and we have to get him back. How do we find this Mirror Gate?"

Seimei stood slowly, his movements surprisingly fluid for someone of his age. "Follow the path north from here," he instructed. "It will lead you to a clearing where the forest grows silent, and no birds sing. There you will find the Gate, hidden among the rocks and trees. But be warned—the spirits will try to turn you back. They will whisper lies, show you visions... they will prey upon your doubts."

Shin took a deep breath. "And if we make it through the gate? What then?"

Seimei's smile returned, more enigmatic than before. "If you make it through, you will be at the threshold of the gods' domain. But you must be quick. Time moves differently there... and your friend may already be lost to their trials."

Zento nodded, determination hardening his features. "Thank you, Seimei," he said. "We'll find the Mirror Gate."

The old hermit watched them closely, his eyes narrowing. "One more thing," he added softly. "Take these with you." He reached into the folds of his tattered robe and produced two small talismans, each carved from a single piece of bone and etched with strange symbols.

Shin took one, examining it carefully. "What are these?"

"Wards," Seimei replied. "They will protect your minds from the spirits' deceptions, at least for a time. But they are not infallible. Trust your instincts, and do not linger at the Gate longer than necessary."

Zento took his talisman, nodding in gratitude. "We understand," he said. "We'll be careful."

Seimei's expression softened, a hint of sadness in his eyes. "Be strong, young ones," he whispered. "For what you are about to face is no ordinary trial. It is a journey into the heart of your own fears. Remember—only the truth will set you free."

With that, they turned and left the hut, stepping back into the cold, dark forest. The wind had picked up, rustling the leaves overhead, and the mist had thickened, curling around their feet like tendrils of smoke.