I only wanted the life I'd read about and dreamed

Hattori wanted an explanation at some point but didn't see the matter as pressing enough to outright demand one. That he would be sought out in time. Sure enough his assumption rang true as his ears tipped forward, catching the call of a wolf whose howl was not familiar yet. The tune of the howl told him all he needed to know, a soft request for his presence within the bamboo. The newcomer then, the one Usagi had vouched for, he presumed. Stepping into motion, Hattori wove through the paths of the maze, knew them better than anyone else as he took shortcuts and pushed his way through younger shoots.

Kunai came into sight well enough, the scent of blood in air as Hattori spied the fresh kill at his paws. It spoke volumes, that he carried gratitude and wanted to pay his way. A good start, if nothing else.

"You seem better." Hattori began, leaving the floor open for the newcomer.