Silver Moraine yūkan na

Just his luck… The very man who had spent his life fleeing responsibility had now crossed paths with none other than Masa. For a fleeting moment, his ears flattened against his nape in quiet frustration.

At the command of the tall, black-clad man, he rose to his feet.

Of course, he echoed smoothly. Now, he needed a reason to justify his presence—for given their respective ranks, he had no doubt that the man in black would soon press him for answers. They were far from home, and by all accounts, Masa had not been seen for some time.

So, Shinjou would play his hand, his words draped in falsehoods, as was his custom.

Masa-dono, I was sent to ensure the success of your quest, he assured him. I have searched for you for months. I feared I might never find you. Lowering his head, he donned the guise of remorse.

Now that I stand before you, consider my fangs as your own. And with that, he sank once more into a ceremonious kneel.