to be trusted,” replied Takeshi.

Kenji re-enters the conversation, “Oh, on the contrary my good friend. Allies are allies, and the enemy of my enemy is my friend.

Surely they taught you that bit in school. Even if a ninja’s clan might be bought, they are as honorable as you and I, and will

fight for their allies with the ferocity of a thousand tigers each.”

The samurai, still attached to his old teachings, “But why does a warrior hide their face? That is honorable?”

The shortest of the two felines, pointing out their dark camouflaged uniforms, not quite black, as story told, but something

much richer in texture and blending, “Ninja are more than just warriors, we are bodyguards, farmers, spies, all hidden within

plain sight of the world. Our masks only server to protect our identities when we are not actively engaged in combat.”

Both ninja bowed to the samurai, “Like you, we are honorable warriors, but do so for the people of our lands, as you do

your lords.”

“Hmmfph! As well as for ”our“ lords as well,” the samurai replied.

Simultaneously, and without disguising their own amusement, “At times!”

Sensing the growing hostilities of the samurai, “Regardless, the Azami clan are our allies.” Turning to the first of the ninja that

Masaru struck down, “And what brings you to our little glade of peacefulness, my friend?”

Bowing, “Yes, my apologies great master scribe, the seer seeks your counsel. It appears she fears the events that you see

at night are not far off.”

Kenji sighed audibly, “That is bad news. We will prepare for departure at once. Tell her to expect us with the three next suns.”

“Yes, wise one.”

And with that ... the ninja disappeared into the grasses, no trace, no sound, as if they were never there.

.

Kenji peered down at his young charge, a stern look upon his face, “Excellent work,” as the sly smile cracked his face.