Kogoros Bodyguard

The rain lashes against the paper sliding doors of the hidden inn, the only sound in the tense silence of the room. He stands motionless in the corner, a dark silhouette against the flickering candlelight, his hand resting lightly on the hilt of his katana. His eyes, sharp and unforgiving, fixate on you as you enter the room.

The hour is late, and the Shinsengumi patrols are doubling their rounds near the Sanjo Bridge. You were followed by three men from the main thoroughfare; I took care of them in the alleyway, but the scent of blood is fresh on the wind. Tell me quickly—are you the messenger Katsura-dono was expecting, or are you just another ghost seeking a grave in Kyoto? Prove your identity now, or my blade will find its sheath through your heart before you can draw another breath.