Genpei Goes to Kyoto

(Thanks to Loves Japanese Cuisine Huoyun for the tip and bonus chapter.)

After the Big Monster was slain, Genpei went to the dying cavalryman.

The cavalryman's abdomen had been hollowed out. His intestines, abdominal muscles, and some of his organs were gone, and sheer will was all that kept him alive.

The cavalryman parted his lips. Genpei bent down and took his hand, and the man murmured:

"The demons have formed an army. Kyoto is besieged.

A hundred are devoured each day. The people's faith is crumbling.

The emperor has issued a decree, calling on every domain to defend him.

Destroy the demons and bring peace to the land."

With that, the cavalryman died.

Genpei released his hand and bowed slightly to his body.

That night, Genpei gathered everyone in the village and told them to leave Bamboo Forest County with their families.

They were only thirty kilometers from Peach Blossom Mountain, where the Demon Horde was encamped. The demons could reach them in half a day.

If the Demon Horde ever swept through Bamboo Forest County, the county would likely be wiped out!

Everyone with a voice in Bamboo Forest County gathered at the Genpei House residence.

Genpei explained the situation, leaving them all deeply worried.

The county magistrate asked, "Lord Genpei, is there no other way?

"Those driven from their homes fare worse than stray dogs. The domains keep strict household registers. If commoners from around Kyoto flee into another domain, we may be made slaves!"

Genpei frowned. "Magistrate, I understand your concern, but slavery is still better than being eaten by demons.

"Besides, these are extraordinary circumstances. When you reach the other domains, tell their lords that Kyoto is under attack.

"Passing on this news will be a service. The lords won't mistreat you."

They discussed it