Avalyn

...a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside a kimono.

The circular symbol tattooed in black was easily overlooked amidst the many other more colorful motifs. It was also different from the other designs in that it was very slightly raised. Stylized blossoms tapered as they fell in arcs on either side. The intended botanical identity of the the plant was further secured by a leaf with a trio of leaflets.

Above and below the flower circle, an arrow's head and tail appeared. It pointed downwards, vertical, as if pinning the circular "Mon" in place."

To the right side of this, the Japanese characters for "Yama-Inu" were inscribed. On the left, the Japanese characters for the word "Emishi" were written.

An expert of the art would recognize that the workmanship was excellent, that of a master's master. They might note that the insignia had been accomplished with candle soot and implements of bamboo.

If they realized the design must have been placed while the bearer was extremely young, they might be even more impressed, because such a work must have been accomplished in miniature. And, if they were ethical, they might be appalled that such a thing had been done to a babe not yet old enough to speak...

"Nō aru taka wa tsume wo kakusu."