Page 50 of Son of Shadows

“Then the Ryukage changed,” Yumi went on. Naomi and the samurai seemed to be locked in a similar trance, frozen in time, just like Inumagami. “His master had turned against everyone. Including his favorite servant. Cruelty was his fuel, and he never ran out of it.”

Ryuichi was so surprised by his feelings right now. His heart ached for Inumagami and his father.

“Then one day, Ryukage announced he was leaving. He gave no reason why. He just vanished,” Yumi said, opening her eyes and facing Ryuichi. “A part of Inumagami felt betrayed by his master’s actions. That part wanted vengeance. But he knows better. His master had been kind to him once, and now he wants to extend that kindness to you, his son.”

Yumi released everyone—Inumagami, his samurai, and Naomi—from their trance.

Instantly, Inumagami’s tail began to wag. “I have decided to help you.”

Ryuichi blinked a few times. Was this really happening? Had Yumi convinced Inumagami with her powers?

Masaru folded his arms and smugly looked at the kitsune adviser. “Looks like this is our win.”

The adviser didn’t appear to remember being affected by Yumi’s magic. Neither did Inumagami or his protectors.

What a relief!

“Master, if you are to take them to the Ryukage, you will have to abandon Kagemura, will you not?” Naomi asked Inumagami. “What will happen without your great leadership?”

The lord frowned at those words. “Oh, that’s a good point. You’re right.” He turned to Ryuichi. “I’m terribly sorry. I won’t be able to go with you.” He lowered his head. “Maybe next time.”

Masaru grunted, indicating that he didn’t like the sudden turn in this negotiation. “You would fail to take Ryuichi to his father? Imagine how angry the Ryukage will be. He’s waited all this time for his child to be with him. Do you really want to be the one to keep them apart?”

Ryuichi almost laughed at Masaru’s words. He was laying it on very thick, to the point where it might not be believable. Even after learning that his father was capable of caring for someone other than himself, he still was unconvinced Ryukage could ever really love.

Still, Masaru’s veiled threat worked like a charm.

“No, I don’t.” Inumagami stood and wagged his tail. “I’m sure it’ll be fine.” He turned to his administrator. “I have faith in you, Naomi. You’re more than capable of taking care of Kagemura during my absence. After all, you know what happens to those who disappoint me.”

All of Inumagami’s servants rubbed at the line of their throats where the executioner’s blade would cut through.

Naomi stood there, speechless for several heartbeats, until she finally sighed. “Well, that was certainly unexpected. Nicely done.” She gave Masaru a reluctant but earnest bow.

Masaru did likewise, honoring his opponent.

Then she turned and did the same to Ryuichi.

Hayasaka stepped forward. “Thank you, my lord. We are ready to follow you wherever you go.”

Inumagami cringed a bit. “Well, to be honest, I don’t know exactly where he is.”

Fury whipped through Ryuichi. “Then all of this was for nothing? Are you kidding me?”

“No worries, Kage-taro. We can find him,” Inumagami assured him.

“How?” Ryuichi asked, more frustrated than he’d ever been before.

Inumagami sat down to scratch his leg again. “Patience, young lord. I have a bounty hunter who lives by the docks. Right here in Kagemura. He has helped me track down the most despicable creatures in the city. And he hasn’t failed me yet.”

Masaru shook his head. “And what makes you think he’ll help us?”

“I speak his favorite language,” Inumagami replied. “Money.”

“What kind of yōkai is he?” asked Masaru.

Inumagami cleared his throat. “Shinigami.”

Ryuichi felt as if he might be ill.