CHAPTER TWENTY ONE

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"Are you ready?" Sugawara asked the Crown Prince while he assisted the man to get on his horse. They've already assemble half an hour ago, but was too tense to say anything for the mood was serious.

In all honesty, the man was against the plan on coming to the Tengu Village, but they don't have the right to say anything against the Crown Prince's decision. Things around the Palace has been high-tension since people started to question where was the second Prince.

Sure enough, there were some speculations that he was actually missing.

The key is his wife-to-be, Prince Hitoka.

She hasn't been well for some time and been lethargic, or in state of constant panic. She has always been negative and was known for being such, however, she has been hysterical every time a guard from the Palace comes to visit her.

Reports has been sent to the Emperor that she has been asking her maids and guards if there has been 'news'.

Abandoning post from royalties is a grave sin punishable by death. So of course the Emperor and other Ministers of his were ardent on finding clues of what was happening and why Shouyo has been missing.

Time is of the essence.

In this note, Kouki assembled his best men and sent notice that they'd come to the village to have a peaceful 'talk'.

Of course, it was stupid and brave of him to come without a backup plan. Luckily for them, Bokuto left his insignia to show the Tengu Chief that he meant well. For now, at least.

This means, he'd have to expose Shouyo's nature to those who's going to accompany him. It was not going to be easy, Kouki said to himself.

As they moved forward to travel, Sawamura vanguard together with the fully-recovered Tanaka, all ready to fight to death if needed. Kouki and Sugawara could actually smell their bloodlust.

For some, it was just one of his hunting party, with them equipped with their hunting falcons. The Emperor; however, had suspicions.

Obviously something is up.

With caution, the party hurried towards the mountains in less than two hours. Their battle will now start.

"Your Highness." Nishinoya fell from the tree - nimbly maneuvered his body to land on his feet - came out of nowhere.

"What happened?" Kouki asked.

"Four men came from East; definitely working for the Emperor. Instructions please."

"Dispose of them." The Crown Prince coldly ordered.

With a nod, Nishinoya and Tanaka moved swiftly. They had a serious expression on their faces. This time, they were determine to regain what they had lost.

Shouyo must be saved.

"Ready, boys?" Kouki asked, pulling tightly on his horse reign.

"Ou!" Everyone from his party roared.

"Let's settle this!"

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a/n; things have not been easy for me, so i apologize for this teaser. I just want you guys to know that I don't plan on abandoning the story and there will be updates. fingers cross for me, please.

thank you everyone who supported me!

-rhye