Page 54 of Son of Shadows

Surprisingly, he didn’t have to. Haruki did it for him.

“Don’t be rude. His worth might surprise you. Now mind your tongue, beast. You’re in the presence of nobility. And I am considered Ryukage’s closest confidant and adviser.”

The innkeeper’s eyes widened as she realized what she’d just done. “I had no idea, my lady. Please forgive me. I beg your pardon.”

“Stop begging and show us to a room. I wish to freshen up.”

The innkeeper bowed respectfully. “Yes, of course. Follow me. I’ll show you to your rooms right this instant.”

Without a word to the yōkai, Haruki snapped her fingers for the men to follow her.

For once her obnoxious behavior amused him. It felt good to have someone rise to his defense. Even if it was Haruki. He’d take the win and be grateful for it.

The yōkai led them to a small room in back, with very little in the way of decor, but at least it was quiet and private.

As they entered, the innkeeper continued to bow. “Is there anything else I can do for you, my lady?” She was absolutely mortified that she’d offended Haruki and couldn’t care less that he was in the room with them.

Haruki let out a peevish sigh. “Yes, leave. And don’t come back until I’ve summoned you.”

The innkeeper left their room and slid the door closed without another word.

Haruki passed an irritated glance around the sparse furnishings and worn-out mats. As she did so, her lips curled more and more.

“This is terrible. I feel like I’ve fallen inside someone’s small bamboo basket.” Her gaze paused on the two futons on the floor.

How Koichi wished he could capture the horrified look on her face. It reminded him of someone who’d stepped in the wrong place inside a stable.

Then she caught herself and steeled her expression. “At least we have two beds.”

“Mine!” Ryuichi-kage rushed forward and claimed the nearest one for himself.

“I stand corrected. There’s only one bed,” Haruki said.

Koichi shrugged. “I’ll just sleep with the boy.”

Ryuichi-kage spread out his arms and legs like a starfish. “Sorry, Koichi, there’s no room.”

“Move over. You’re a shadow. You don’t need a bed.”

“Yes, I do, and I choose this one. You can fight Haruki for the other.”

The look she gave him said it wouldn’t be a long fight. But it would probably be bloody.

And Koichi knew where this was heading.

Haruki scoffed. “Don’t expect a woman like me to share. Ever.”

“Understood. Floor it is for me.”

At least it was better than a gutter.

* * *

Later that night, Koichi sneaked out of the inn and entered Kagemura’s streets under the cover of darkness. A city of thieves could just as quickly become a city of informants, for the right price.

Moments ago, he’d lied to Ryuichi-kage and Haruki and said he was going out for some food. Of course, Haruki made a snide comment about not having enough money. And she was right. They didn’t have much coin left. But it should be enough that he could barter for something.

But Koichi would have to be careful lest his activities get back to Orochi.