Just in time, Mamoru clambers onto the roof of a building and hunkers down. The thunder of hooves is now obvious, and the dust and noise of many riders approaches. He looks out to see the 'bandits' approaching at speed. The young shinobi estimates that there are at least 20 mounted spearmen bearing down on the village. They seem disciplined and focused.
Realizing that he has only a few moments to finish 'getting settled' as one of his old teachers called it, Mamoru turns to the square.
"Yorinaga-San! 20 riders! In formation!" He shouts towards the familiar figure organizing the small resistance below. Hoping that Yorinaga understands what he is trying to impart.
'Never use a waterfall when a cup of water will do,...' Another master's voice drifts from his memory, reminding him that he tends to over-explain. Mamoru turns back to his preparations, and peeks back over the roof, trying to get a better idea of who he is up against.
'Patience is your best weapon' He hears again, 'Who strikes first is not important, it is who strikes LAST, and best, that counts. Make certain of your target, and make certain you select the RIGHT target,...'
With a smirk, Mamoru tries to find the leader in the approaching formation. "Too bad that patience is NOT my virtue." He thinks to himself as he scans the mounted warriors.
Yorinaga takes his men further up the road and to the East towards the sound of the riders but not too far as they will not be reached by Ran-Tan-Kani's squad in a moments notice.
Outlined in the setting sun of dusk and lit by the torches they carry, a sudden storm of men sweep into the village! There must be nearly thirty of them, led by a fierce-looking warrior wearing do-maru, kote, and suneate.
