Entry #C-9: "Chastised"

[meticulous_grey]

The times are changing.

Soon, my samurai will all have to seek different paths... but for now, I am still a Shogun. The men in this part of the country still obey my will.

I had thought, by this time, that I would have a wife.

I am nervous about the rate of revolt. It does not bode well. I can only wonder how much longer this way of life can

Comments

[not_so_curious]

Time will do as it will, my lord. Mere mortals cannot prevent its flow. We take what small happiness we can whilst we still breathe.

May fate speed you on your quest for a woman with whom to share your joys and sorrows.

[meticulous_grey]

Thank you for your kind wishes. They warm my heart, unlike many wishes others have expressed concerning my fate...

My sorrows remain mine alone. Why would one seek a woman's comfort except to speed himself toward joy? It is more welcome to share joy than to share heartache.

What is your name?

[not_so_curious]

I do not know the circumstances under which others would curse you and your fate, my lord, but might I recommend more time spent in the presence of others whose hearts and hands are warm, who speak words that are gentle?

It is more welcome to share joy, but no man is an island. Sometimes the sharing of a burden is necessary to lighten it.

I am called Kimiko, my lord, and your humble servant.

[meticulous_grey]

Kimiko, is it? "Noble Child?" I am called Ryuzaki. I am very pleased to make your aquaintance.

Gentle words are seldom heard by a lord of these times... it feels often as if my dominion is over death alone. But your words comfort me; thank you.

[not_so_curious]

Ryu- the dragon, to strike fear into the hearts and minds of your enemies, and confidence in those who trust in you. Likewise, Lord Ryuzaki.

So long as your heart still beats, and there are those who rally to your cause, your dominion is over much more than that. Though my company might be rougher than one of your elevated stature might hope, my words will always be gentle.

[meticulous_grey]

Yes, something like that.

Say... are you going to the dance tonight, that a new geisha in the area is performing? I'd like to continue this discussion, if time and your comfort would permit.

[not_so_curious]

I was planning to attend as a matter of professional interest. I am not a geisha, but I practice many of the same arts, and would be most pleased to have company, my lord.