They say that in your last few moments of life all that be seen is the afterlife you desire. It’s said that moment last forever, just on the brink of death. Others believe your life flashes before your eyes. I believe… when you die… your mind has trouble comprehending its destruction so it attempts to rationalize your demise with distracting thoughts. It’s either that or you go mad in your last few moments. The rouge spoke, holding a katana to Rengo’s throat.

Which one of us will go mad first, do you think? The rouge said.

Rengo, young and inexperienced, had nothing to say. he closed his eyes and waited for the sword to pierce his throat.

What’s the matter? Lose your nerve already!?—

Rengo opened his eyes to see the blade lifting from his throat. As he laid on the ground, looking up, Rengo saw the sky, trees and his would-be killer with a blade thrust through his chest from behind. The rouge fell as the silhouette of a man in a rice hat appeared before the sunlight.

Lets get you up boy. Looks as if you’ll live to see another day.

Helping him to his feet, Kabuku conversed with Rengo.

My name is Kabuku Jinotsuka, but you may call me Kabu, if you like.

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Thank you, sir.

Do not address me in such an implication. I am a shogun. An agent of the state. It was my duty to intervene. The man I killed was wanted on three counts of murder. Kabuku said.

A shogun? As in… a member of the shogunate of Yin? Rengo asked.

That is correct.

Wow. Thank you again! If you hand’t stepped in, I’d be pushing up daisies! But I gotta say… the shogun usually travel in twos. Where’s your partner?

I do not have one. The state has found my singular skills reliable enough for me to be out on my own.

Well I hope you don’t like traveling alone, because I’m gonna be a shogun too!

Kabuku looked confused.

A shogun who can’t hold his own against a street rogue? Laughable. Kabuku said.

Just wait and see! Rengo cried back.

In time I’ll be just as strong as you. Until then I won’t leave your side!

You’re young, kid. Kabuku said.

It’ll take a few years. Kabuku finished, sheathing his sword and turning to leave as Rengo ran behind him.

My name’s Rengo, by the way.

Rengo? Hmm… union.

What? Rengo looked up, asking.

Nothing. Kabuku said.

First things first. We’ll have to get you a sword.