The Hidden member carrying Tetsu no Sosuke could barely straighten his back, even though they had already switched bearers three times along the way...
"You're practically a killer." Shinobu Kocho gave the Hidden member a sympathetic look.
The Hidden member was on the verge of tears. He wanted to shout, Finally, someone understands!
Tetsu no Sosuke scowled. "Enough nonsense. Tell me what happened."
"The message was clear. Three days ago, the Water Pillar called for help, but no one who went to assist him has been heard from since," Shinobu Kocho said. "Even the Kasugai Crows were dealt with cleanly. To avoid more casualties, Master decided to gather the Pillars and send them to investigate. But they all had important matters to attend to, and couldn't get away just then. In the end, we were the only two available."
Tetsu no Sosuke frowned. "The Water Pillar called for help three days ago?"
Shinobu Kocho glanced at the sky. "By now, it must be the fourth day."
"Do we know what condition he's in?"
"No." Shinobu Kocho shook her head.
Tetsu no Sosuke let out a long breath. "Let's eat, then leave immediately. We'll have to travel through the night. Tell the Hidden members to stay alert."
Shinobu Kocho nodded, not at all surprised by his decision.
Now that he knew Giyu Tomioka might be in trouble, there was no way he would dawdle.
The two of them ate a hurried meal and set off again.
A Chance Encounter on the Street
Traveling at night was slower than during the day. After winding their way along all night, they finally managed to leave the concealed route.
At last free to move on his own, Tetsu no Sosuke met up with Shinobu Kocho, who had been waiting for him, and they headed