- Title: Usagi Yojimbo #142
- Comic Vine: link
- Writer: Stan Sakai
- Artist: Stan Sakai
The rabbit ronin’s wanderings lead him to cross paths with a quartet of ice runners who he finds under attack by a gang of bandits.
After lending his help Usagi Yojimbo learns the from the remaining ice runners that they are carrying ice from the frozen mountains (in the middle of summer) for their Lord Ito who will present the ice as his gift to Lord Hijiki who will be visiting the province the following day.
Not only is the honor of the their lord at stake, but the Lord Ito has made a wager with Lord Motooka on his clan’s ability to deliver the ice, and, as Usagi knows far too well, Motooka doesn’t mind playing dirty.
Usagi offers his assistance to the remaining runners. Although he isn’t able to save their lives when they are attacked again, he is able to deliver the ice and save their clan’s honor.
Another great tale by artist and writer Stan Sakai. Worth a look.
[Dark Horse, $3.50]