Synopsis

Sugimoto found himself speaking with King Kou, and it became clear he wished for her service once more. He presented her with a sword and instructed Kourin to renew the hinman’s binding upon her. The change was immediate; Sugimoto's appearance shifted, subtly altering her features. As she prepared to depart, she noticed that Kourin had fallen ill, and rushed from the room in concern. Sugimoto arrived at the dock where Youko awaited, and boarded the same vessel as her intended passage. But as