Blackfeather Woods 赤

not a samurai, she says.
masa glances sidelong, the faintest twitch of ear acknowledging her words—but he does not seem deterred.
and the boy is no samurai. he says with a shrug of muscled shoulders. the group that gathers more with each day is not typical.
he steps where the land softens, leaving clearer prints for her to follow. moonglow will honor your presence. they are peaceful, spiritual. and his tone suggests he is not either of those things. but their leader is wise. she gave me shelter when i had none. i repay her now.
he pauses as they draw nearer to where he left the others. then we continue the hunt. a glance shared. you are welcome beside me for as long as you wish it, kaede-sama.