Challenge Corner discussion

The only daughter of a prominent samurai, Mariko has always known she’d been raised for one purpose and one purpose only: to marry. Never mind her cunning, which rivals that of her twin brother, Kenshin, or her skills as an accomplished alchemist. Since Mariko was not born a boy, her fate was sealed the moment she drew her first breath.

So, at just seventeen years old, Mariko is sent to the imperial palace to meet her betrothed, a man she did not choose, for the very first time. But the journey is cut short when Mariko’s convoy is viciously attacked by the Black Clan, a dangerous group of bandits who’ve been hired to kill Mariko before she reaches the palace.

The lone survivor, Mariko narrowly escapes to the woods, where she plots her revenge. Dressed as a peasant boy, she sets out to infiltrate the Black Clan and hunt down those responsible for the target on her back. Once she’s within their ranks, though, Mariko finds for the first time she’s appreciated for her intellect and abilities. She even finds herself falling in love—a love that will force her to question everything she’s ever known about her family, her purpose, and her deepest desires.

3%: I don't know how I feel about this. It’s almost got too much action without enough explanation. (view spoiler)[I also have a hard time believing that a girl who is used to having everything done for her can just kill, even if she does have the determination. Still, I am intrigued. (hide spoiler)]

26%: (view spoiler)[I don't know what to think of the Wolf. Is this who Mariko will fall in love with? I'm saying it is either him or the leader. What was the show of power? I like the multiple points of view, especially the ones involving her brother. (hide spoiler)]

I can't say without spoiling it. lol. I can take or leave the multiple POVs but I guess it does help flesh out the story. :D

10%(view spoiler)[I'm glad that Kenshin never gave up on his sister being alive. He's a good 'older' brother. (hide spoiler)]

90% (view spoiler)[I can't believe Ranmaru knew she was a girl all along!!! (hide spoiler)]

That ending was both amazing and weird. I can't believe the Empress (view spoiler)[killed the Emperor! O.O I wonder what the witch lady will do about that? (hide spoiler)]

Also am I the only one that is confused about the difference between an Emperor and a Shogun? I can't seem to understand what the difference is! It's too confusing! :(