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Tomoe was surprised to find Kenichi at the Koi pond. He was deep in thought and did not notice her until she was right beside him. They exchanged the usual pleasantries and then Kenichi returned his attention to the pond. Tomoe smiled.
"Homesick, Kenichi-San?"
He looked up, "It would seem so, Lady Tomoe," He shrugged, "I have been away from my family for too long. Not simply here, but in the Hikiji capital as well. I miss my wife."
"Lord Yasuhira is going to maintain a delegation here to act in his name. I'm sure you're on the short list to be part of it. He obviously trusts you."
He smiled, "And I am overwhelmed by that sentiment, but," He cast his eyes back into the water, "I fear the world of politics is not for me. I don't have the stomach for it," He looked up to the blue skies above, "I miss the quiet life of my home. As much as most men would be loathed to admit such a thing, I don't mind being a 'country samurai'. A man doesn't have stand next to his lord to serve him well."
Tomoe was taken aback. Once again she heard Yasu's words, but spoken by another person. Kenichi embodied what Yasu thought no longer existed. Here was the exception that proved the rule. Kenichi maintained his obligation but on his own terms. Remarkable. The woman wondered how he was able to achieve such a condition. What did it cost him? For every human effort has a price. What price is freedom from absolute obligation?
"Come to show me more of the grounds, Lady Tomoe?"
She spun around and found Yasuhira standing nearby, with Riku an arm's length behind him. Both Tomoe and Kenichi bowed and he returned the gesture. Kenichi gave his thanks to Tomoe for the conversation, said a few pleasantries to his lord, and promised to make good on the duties given him that morning and then left the pair to themselves.
"Kenichi is a good man."
"You sound surprised, Lady Tomoe."
Startled, "My lord, I..."
He smiled, "Even the Hikiji can produce the odd number of good men," She suddenly relaxed realising that he was teasing, "Though they are not as bountiful as those grown here in Geishu."
She sighed, "With all respect, my lord, I have never met such a vexing man as yourself."
He smiled wide, "All men think the same way, my lady, but only a few speak their minds. And it was your good lord who informed me that being so plain and straightforward could lead me to disaster."
She turned her head slightly, "Well it almost did last night, Lord Yasuhira."
Now it was her turn to tease and Yasuhira beamed upon hearing it. As that meant she held no grievance for his offending words. On that regard he was grateful and pleased.
"Well, my lady, if we are speaking candidly to one another, perhaps you could avail upon your guest a request that may be construed or moreover misconstrued as being inappropriate."
