TEST Takeo and the exquisite Kaede, still only teenagers, are now married, but the implacable forces of destiny that rule their lives tear them apart.

Takeo, a battle-hardened warrior at the head of an army fighting for his Otori birthright, finds his courage and leadership forged in the fire of bloodshed and sacrifice, while his legendary magical powers are tested to their limits against the invisible assassins of the Tribe.

Kaede, determined to reclaim her own lands, is treacherously betrayed and forced into marriage.

Their love will survive until death - but death, in this savage, beautiful world, is always only a moment away.