Chapter 34: That Shapeshifter, Torn

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‘You wanted to see me?’ Tsuguru burst into the main hall with a forced smile. ‘Did you need more information about my uncle?’

The young daimyo seated on the dais had no expression on her face. Kii, Yuzuru and Reika stood beside the dais in a straight line.

Ink-black eyes turned to him. ‘No.’

Yoka placed a second plate of wagashi on the table in front of her young mistress. The Imperial Commissioner walked over languidly and helped himself to another one.

Rin scowled at him.

Tsuguru’s smile faded. He marched over and swiped the wagashi from the older man. ‘Don’t take from Rin-chan’s plate! Get your own!’

Commissioner Inoue held up his hands in surrender, but the corner of his mouth quirked up in a smile. ‘Your fiancé is so feisty, Little Terazawa. How are you going to deal with him?’

‘Can you guarantee this is all the evidence the shogun needs?’ Rin asked gravely.

A full smile of anticipation bloomed on the Imperial Commissioner’s face. ‘Yes. This is good enough.’

The young bugyō sighed.

Then, without looking at Tsuguru, she told him, ‘I’m sorry about this, Tsuguru. It’s an order by the shogun.’

The young samurai gave her a baffled look.

Just as he opened his mouth to ask her what she meant, Rin gestured at Yoka. ‘Execute him.’

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