Across the Nightingale Floor

Set in ancient Japan, "Across the Nightingale Floor" is the first volume in the epic Tales of the Otori trilogy, following the journey of sixteen-year-old Takeo. After witnessing the brutal massacre of his village, he is rescued by a nobleman who takes him in and educates him. As Takeo grows, he uncovers his unique powers and faces complex choices regarding his loyalties, torn between his adoptive father, a secret spiritual sect known as the Hidden, and the enigmatic Tribe of assassins. This captivating tale weaves together themes of political intrigue, treachery, and first love within a richly ritualistic world.