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Chapter 2
The rest of Yasuhira's journey was uneventful and he pushed Sakura to her limit in returning to the capital. He rode with Naka, who had some trouble keeping up with the spirited mare of his Lord's. Yasuhira halted a short distance away to look with wonder at the castle beyond. It had been for most of his life the centre of all he knew. Then he ventured out to see the world beyond those high thick walls, beautiful though they were. He had experienced much; his life had changed forever as a result. But still, he had to admit he felt a wave of euphoria at seeing those walls again. It was home after all. He put his heels deep into Sakura and rushed to return. As he did he passed many farmers tending the fields around the castle grounds. Surprisingly, many paused in their labours to wave at their young Master and he returned the gesture without hesitation. If any other lord had seen such a thing they would have called for the peasants to be killed on the spot. Yasuhira simply rode on toward the main gate. He shouted at the two guards who recognised the young man and knelt immediately. Once Yasuhira dismounted one of the men took Yasuhira's bridle, while the other beckoned that the gate be opened for the young Lord's return. As he waited, Yasuhira spied a water gourd and picked it up, as he had sudden thirst.
"Uchi, how is your wife? Has she given birth yet?"
He was startled, then was beaming at the mention of his wife, "Oh yes, Lord, last night. A boy, Lord."
"Marvelous. Do mother and child thrive?"
"Yes they are both well."
"Praise the Gods. But why are you here and not basking in the glow of your growing family?"
They walked inside the gate side by side, "I have a duty, Lord Yasuhira."
"Captain Shige." Shouted Yasuhira, and the man in question came running.
He bowed deeply, "Yes, my Lord."
"Uchi is to have the rest of today and all of tomorrow off to spend with his family," Both me were aghast, "In fact, I propose a new edict that any man of the guard who has a child will have two days paid liberty to spend with his family."
Stammering, "As you wish my Lord."
"Having children is what will keep our clan strong, Captain. Strong children are as important as strong walls," He turned to Uchi and removed two Ryo from his sleeve, again the men were aghast, "Take this and buy something nice for your wife and new clothes for your son's naming day."
Uchi fell to the ground and thanked Yasuhira over and over. The man smiled, but allowed it to continue for a moment and then bid the man to rise. He took the bridle from the other guard, handed him the gourd and walked Sakura himself to the stables. The Captain and Uchi were baffled and bewildered, but did as they were instructed by their Lord. Naka walked passed the two men, smiling and shaking his head. Bonze they called their Lord; but he was a monk who was also the best swordsman, Ninja or otherwise, Naka had ever seen.
