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As the troubling first day was followed by a bedevilled evening, so arrived the new morning. And Noriyuki met it with a start. He bolted upright and scanned the area around him, seemingly unaware of where he was. It took hardly a second for him to realise that he was in his private quarters. In fact he was clad in his sleeping clothes and under his bedding. The young lord rubbed his eyes and twisted his mind back to the night before. For the life of him he couldn't remember how he got there. He did recall quite vividly every minute before Shiroi Hane began dancing. Once she had fallen into a particularly vibrant rhythm his mind went blank. A darkness had covered his memories. But he looked out the window and noticed the sun had just cleared the horizon and the sky was clear and bright. It was to be a beautiful day. How unfortunate, as he remembered he was supposed to give a tour of the fields for his guests. He had prayed that a nice rainstorm would erupt and quash that plan. Alas, the gods were not listening. So he set his mind to meeting this latest challenge.
He rang some small bells to summon his attendants. The Chief Retainer was at the head and Noriyuki noticed the young maid from the night before. She looked even more exhausted than the Chief Retainer did. Before eating or getting dressed, Noriyuki ask for a quiet moment with Takashi.
"Are you aware that Lady Shiroi was with me last night?"
He looked at him puzzled, "Yes, my lord."
"How did I end up here then?"
More puzzlement, "You called for us and retired for the evening."
"What time was that?"
"I'm not certain, Tono, but it was very late. So much so that we've hardly had to time rest ourselves," He motioned to his staff, "Young Tori there hasn't stopped all night, Tono."
Takashi had pointed to the maid from last night. Noriyuki nodded to himself. Now he remembered the young girl's name. Tori continued her labours, but it was obvious she was struggling. The hours had finally caught up to her.
"She refused to leave her post once the Hikiji woman presented herself," He beamed, "She would not rest until you were safe in your quarters."
"I don't remember that."
He pleasing countenance faded, "You drank a considerable amount of sake, Tono. Strong drink has been known to steal memories."
"Yes, the sake." It had to be the sake.
Takashi looked at Tori again, "She put the bedding over you herself, Tono, and waited in your quarters until all was safe. She left your side only a short time ago to ready your morning meal."
Even Noriyuki smiled at that.
"Her loyalty is an inspiration."
"Yes it is," He stepped forward, "Tori," The girl jumped and then rushed to her lord, "I have been informed that you kept vigil over me last night."
