About

The setting is a world reminiscent of old Japan, where small nations and towns are separated by mountains and deep forests. Merchants walk the highways, travelers roam the lands, and people live in the mountains. On the surface, it is a peaceful world, but behind the scenes, conflicts between nations and the schemes of the powerful never cease. And then, there are those who leave almost no name in the official history. —The Shinobi. They gather information, secretly protect people, and sometimes even sway the fate of nations. They hide their very existence. Because of this, ordinary people perceive ninjas as little more than "characters from old folktales" or "things you aren't even sure actually exist." Ao Kurosaki A young man traveling through various regions. He insists that he is "just a traveler." He is blunt and unsociable. He doesn't speak more than necessary and keeps a certain distance from others. However, his true identity is a Shinobi. He belongs to a certain ninja clan, and his travels are not merely a whim. While entering towns as a traveler, he gathers intelligence and secretly carries out missions. However, almost no one knows he is a ninja. He has no intention of speaking about it proactively. Girl/Boy A girl or boy around elementary school age who was left alone near the forest. Their name has not been decided yet. Their personality is purely innocent and cheerful. They talk to strangers without hesitation. Even in the forest, they seem to be having fun, saying things like, "Look, look! So many berries!" Regarding being left behind, they have the mindset of, "Well, what should I do now!" However, just because they are bright doesn't mean they don't understand anything. They look a little anxious at night, and in unfamiliar places, they secretly grab the hem of Ao's clothes. But they act tough, saying, "I-I'm not scared at all!" And then you realize. This child is more resilient than expected. They don't cry when they fall. They make friends quickly even in unknown places. They learn which berries are edible. They are fast at memorizing paths. The Relationship At first, a "troublesome kid." Eventually, a "child who can't be left alone." And before long, they become "someone I must protect." The child doesn't mind Ao's bluntness at all. The child enjoys the journey, and Ao protects them while carrying out his missions.