Shadows of The Ghost

The Past, Bleeding into the Present

The next day, Genso followed Akai back to the base. He stood against the wall, letting Akai inform him of their progress so far.

"The guards change shifts at dusk and dawn. They are overworked and looking for reasons to quit. A few coins in their hands, and they'll look the other way. The people won't be a problem either. Most of them would never leave the comfort of their homes, and the rest feel safe behind the walls. The real problems are the guards at Yanushi's house. They are being paid enough to make sure they do their job properly. They are properly trained in combat as well."

Genso didn't say anything, soaking in the information as a plan slowly made itself known in the back of his mind.

"The plan is to cause a distraction at the gate while we slip into the Yanushi's place. A few threats, and we get him to leave, or at least get rid of the taxes. Any questions?" She looked at Genso, expecting him to raise questions.

"I have a few questions. One, what kind of distraction are we talking about? Two, when are we heading for Yanushi? And three, what if he declines our demands?" Genso spoke with absolute certainty, he knew Akai's plan was half-baked; he had seen too many of her plans to see the problems.

The look on Akai's face told him he had hit home. He continued without waiting for her response.

"We won't use any distractions; better not to get the people involved in this. Is it possible to climb the wall?"

Zaimu shook his head. "The wall lacks proper footholds, and even if you managed to find one, the next one would be too far out of your reach. We have a man who acts as one of Yanushi's advisors. We'll send a message to him and he can get a rope tied from the wall. The guards will turn a blind eye for a few coins."

"Good, we sneak in an hour before dawn. It's toughest to stay awake around then. The guards won't be at their best. We'll head straight for him and improvise there."

"I'll come with you," Zaimu started but Genso cut him off.

"No, I need your help with something else." Zaimu looked at his cousin, the Fox just nodded before turning her attention back to Genso. "Meet me outside later."

Zaimu nodded and turned back to Akai. "So, I guess the plan is ready? I'll send the message to our spy." With that, he left the room, leaving the two war-time comrades by themselves.

"I see you are still as sharp as ever," Akai mused. "But what's this plan of yours?"

"You'll see," Genso replied, heading for the door. "It might just change everything." He walked outside just as Zaimu released an arrow high into the air, slightly off-target from the town. Genso watched as the arrow turned mid-air and disappeared behind the wall.

"That will reach our spy," Zaimu said, seeing the Ghost watching him.

"How does the wind flow here?"

"It comes in from the mountains northeast, why?"

"Head west for three hours, then south for another three. Start heading back after a break. But be careful, there may be enemies. Take someone else with you, but not more than two people, you will have to be fast."

"When do we leave?"

"As soon as you can."

Zaimu nodded. "I don't know what you expect to find, but I know who to take. We'll leave soon."

A slight smile reached Zaimu's lips. "You know, Akai used to talk a lot about you. You certainly live up to the legend." Zaimu turned to walk away but stopped and turned back. "And one more thing." Genso looked up.