The old master raised his sword to eye level and prepared to strike, but the wise Shiro intervened. His cape billowed dramatically as he stepped between Shahin and the queen's enforcer. He locked eyes with Hogen, whose expression remained smug and condescending.
"Shahin, take Ginji and tend to his wounds. I don't think he's gone yet. I'll deal with this man," Shiro ordered calmly.
"Not so fast!" Kentaro interrupted, his voice carrying a firm determination. "I've faced Hogen before, and I have unfinished business with him. He's the one who gave me this lovely scar," he said, tracing the long gash along his neck, barely hidden by his thick black beard.
"I intend to repay him—many times over," he added with a grim smile.
Hogen lowered his guard slightly, letting the long grass brush against the tip of his blade. His weathered, yet charismatic face lit up with a mocking grin.
