15
Hidekazu
Pink lotus flags flapped from tall pillars on each side of the long stone bridge crossing the waters surrounding the Benri estate.
A pair of Benri soldiers flanked the walkway. “Halt!” one said of Hidekazu and Masanori’s approach. “Identify yourselves.”
Both men grabbed their weapons as if the twins hadn’t been visiting Torra here for years. They’d never been questioned at these gates. First Shōgun Mika’s lukewarm response to their request for aid, now Benri troops showing outright hostility?
“We are Genshu Hidekazu and Genshu Masanori,” Hidekazu said, keeping his voice even despite his growing temper. “By request of the Exalted Dragon Princess, Furahau Aihi, we will convene with Clan Leader Benri regarding the disappearance of Benri Torra and the kan’thir’s attack.”
“Cla
