Editing Memories of a Stone Wall (section)

===Act XXXV: Learning===
:>Monkey was sullen on the trip back.
:>I was pretty sure I knew why, too.
:>There were children in that village.
:>We only found three in the aftermath.
:>With nothing else to do with them, we gave the children over to the nearest monastery, once we had checked them for taint.
:>He had protested at even going that far.
:>Seeing an innocent caught up in something so ugly, through no fault of their own, had shaken him.
:>Though I had thought the brutal reality of war with the Shadowlands had hardened me to such things, I found I didn't much like it either.
:>Naomi's gentle influence, no doubt.
:>Sake wasn't a good choice here.
:>Drinking when you want to forget is sometimes a bad idea. You remember when you wake up. So you drink more.
:>Until you disgrace yourself.
:>Or the Scorpion comes to your house.
:>So I needed to get his mind off it first.
:>Monkey.
:>He ignored me and continued to brood.
:>So I kicked him.
:>He spun around, nostrils flared, and shouted.
:>WHAT?!
:>How's your kid doing?
:>Hu- what?
:>Your kid? Tokichiro, wasn't it?
:>Yeah... he's fine.
:>Fine? That's it?
:>He can count to 6 now. Always forgets 7 and 8...
:>He's about the same age as Tetsute, yeah?
:>Yeah...
:>Look, it's already fall. I'm sure Naomi will send everyone home for winter.
:>You'll have some time with him soon.
:>What about Toshiro, don't we work for both of them?
:>Toshiro spoke up.
:>Well, I have to look at my own ugly face every day to put on my face paint, so seeing YOUR ugly face the rest of the day is kind of wearing one...
:>So unless something just falls into our laps soon, I'd say you're going to have some time off.
:>I grinned, then nudged Monkey in the ribs.
:>Hey, maybe you should try for a daughter next?
:>He blushed.
:>We made it back to my place without incident.
:>Naomi had recovered more, and was moving around without the cane.
:>She still needed to grab an afternoon nap though.
:>Tsuyosa, as well, was doing better. He was getting just a touch of color to him and putting on weight.

:>Between her fatigue and his determination gorge himself in order to get to a healthy weight things got awkward on occasion.
:>By that I mean I often had to sit behind Naomi and hold Tsuyosa for her.
:>Once, she drifted off to sleep mid feeding.
:>Naomi was terribly embarrassed by that when she woke up, despite my assurances it was no big deal.
:>With Naomi still needing time to rest and nothing terribly pressing, we did indeed split up early for the winter, everyone heading to their homes.
:>Shino puttered about here and there, overseeing the servants.
:>He spoke to me a few times about how things were going.
:>But after he saw how quickly my eyes glazed over once he got to actual numbers he simplified it down to a "Things are going well."
:>Toshiro made sure there was enough medicine and medicinal incense before heading back to his own home in the wastes.
:>Got to check on the flow of the Kami. The land isn't going to fix itself.
:>The Kuni wastes had lain fallow for centuries. I wondered if the land would truly be able to recover from the drastic measures taken to purge that taint from it.
:>In mid-autumn I received a visit from Kojiro-Sensei.
:>I was a bit surprised. I didn't think I would be ready so soon.
:>But Sensei took me out back and we fought, and he declared I was.
:>I was loathe to leave my family in their current state.
:>But Naomi shooed me away, insisting I do as Sensei wished.
:>And so I learned the last technique taught to the Defenders of the Wall.
:>The last technique began with the kata of the Indomitable Warrior.
:>It expanded quickly from there.
:>Kojiro-sensei told me what I was learning was related to the final technique of the Hida-Ryu, The Mountain does not Fall.
:>Did you know, Ishigaki-san? Stories of your battles with the bloodspeaker cult are spreading throughout the Clan.
:>Maho causes great pain, it debilitates with ease. With this technique you will be ready to cast off those effects.
:>I do not want you to die on me now, Ishigaki-san.

:>I continued to perform the kata, as sensei had shown me, while he spoke.
:>I did not respond, knowing he was testing my concentration.
:>After all, I intend for you to teach at this dojo in a few decades.
:>I slipped up and he whacked me with his tetsubo.
:>Despite the fact that I have to beat you a bit harder than most students to get my lessons in, you do apply them very well indeed.
:>Of course you're still quite young. How old are you, anyway?
:>26, sensei.
:>Hrm yes. Got a bit of a late start on the family.
:>I knew my wife for four years before I realized I loved her, Sensei.
:>Ooooh?
:>I could tell he was genuinely curious.
:>I was called upon to serve as an Emerald Magistrate, and was placed in a group of young recruited alongside her.
:>I was older than the rest.
:>Sensei nodded.
:>Younger Crabs are much more hot headed, after a few seasons they stop trying to flex at everything that moves.
:>Just as you say, Sensei.
:>We had many tasks back then. They seemed difficult, but were really quite straightforward.
:>Find the murderer, collect the testimony.
:>Hunt down the bandits.
:>Attend court and avoid compromising your loyalty to the Emperor.
:>There was an opium smuggling ring... once.
:>And then you made a mistake.
:>...yes.
:>I had began to wonder though.
:>Toshiro had said that the ritual to pass the taint into the earth the Fakoji had intended to use was based upon another Maho spell.
:>There were, in fact, several ways one could spread the taint to an unknowing victim with Maho.
:>It made me wonder if Tsabutai-sama had indeed been a Maho-Tsukai, or just a victim of THEM.
:>Since I still suspected Hohiro, I could not shake that thought.
:>If I was right, then the deaths of Tsabutai's family was also upon his head.
:>I redoubled my efforts, going through one kata and transitioning into the next, building up to the full technique bit by bit.
:>I did them slowly. So slowly my muscles burned with agony.
:>I pushed it aside, seeking Mushin no Shin.

:>Under sensei's watchful eyes I mastered his final lesson.
:>The Crab are the Wall.
:>In a multi-clan force, the Crab stood at the vanguard.
:>At the head of any Crab Vanguard, the Defenders would be there.
:>Now I would be at the head of the Defenders.
:>First into battle, last to leave.
:>A small ceremony was held, to commemorate the completion of this stage of my training.
:>To my surprise, Naomi came to attend.
:>As did Toshiro, and all of my children.
:>I found keeping the stupid grin off my face the hardest thing I had to do, as Kojiro-sensei formally recognized me.
:>When the ceremony was over, he came to meet my family.
:>Daiko and Tetsute both looked up at him with wide eyes.
:>Here was a man their mighty father showed great deference to.
:>They had never met someone like that before.
:>Well, will you two one day come to study under me, as you father did?
:>A pair of HAI!'s echoed in unison.
:>Naomi was so proud of me she didn't even flinch at that thought.
:>Toshiro slapped my back.
:>Heard you've got a retirement plan now.
:>I snorted.
:>Not for some time yet, I think. I've still got plenty of years of active service before I need to settle in as a sensei. And much more to learn yet.
:>Kojiro-sensei nodded.
:>Indeed. Do not ever be satisfied with yourself.
:>With that, we all returned to Ishigaki Mura.
:>So, how did things go for you, Toshiro?
:>He grinned at me.
:>And pulled a small shard of crystal out.
:>Is that...?
:>Yes, it's spirit is awake.
:>So you're a crystal master?
:>Oh no... I just have some awakened crystal.
:>But in recognition of everything Sensei called in several favors.
:>He patted his scroll satchel.
:>Got a few new ones to go with this crystal.
:>Naomi looked at his satchel.
:>My word, Toshiro, you've got quite the library there, don't you?
:>So, while I had been reaching new heights, Toshiro had reached new breadth.
:>I wondered how if any of the others had learned something new.
:>We spent the winter together, Toshiro, myself and my family.

:>During the winter, Ishigaki Mura grew again, as the Sake works went up.
:>I met with the master brewer, a man named Rikuchi.
:>He was newly risen to the title, and thanked me profusely for the opportunity to open his own brewery.
:>I waved him off, and directed his thanks to Naomi.
:>I just couldn't bring myself to take credit for something I didn't do.
:>She then had to wave him off before he gave himself a concussion trying to go through all his thanks again.
:>Look, don't worry about all that Rikuchi. Just make me some damn fine Sake.
:>HAI, Great Samurai! I will indeed!
:>One day I shall surpass my own master!
:>Good. Do that.
:>With the addition of the brewery, a few homes began to spring up.
:>After more than a decade, life had at last returned to Ishigaki Mura.
:>As Naomi breathed life back into my childhood home, so to did she breathe life into Tsuyosa.
:>He still coughed, from time to time, and tired more quickly than his siblings did at that age.
:>But his coughs were almost afterthoughts, and he never once had a serious fit like Naomi had.
:>Daiko marked her fourth birthday.
:>Children have very little expectation placed upon them, save to obey their parents commands.
:>At some point between the age of eight and twelve a child enters into the dojo and begins their formal education.
:>However, some instruction is carried out in the home, such as literacy, basic mathematics, and of course plenty of theology.
:>For her birthday, Naomi got Daiko a calligraphy set.
:>Tetsute fussed that he wanted one as well.
:>You know, it's not as fun as you might think. It's just so she can practice writing, like your mother does.
:>Yes! I can too! I can!
:>I rubbed his head and grinned.
:>So competitive, that one.
:>Children are always in a hurry to grow up, adults often wish to be children again.
:>Enjoy this time while you can, Tetsute. It will end eventually, and you'll find yourself missing it at times.
:>He blinked up at me.
:>Were you ever a child papa?
:>Hah! Of course I was!

:>And you miss it?
:>Sometimes I do. There are many burdens adults must bear, and they can grow quite heavy at times.
:>But you're the strongest person ever!
:>I hugged him then.
:>I am only strong because I want to protect you. You, your sister, your brother, and your mother.
:>He hugged me back.
:>I know papa will always keep me safe!
:>Yes, I will.
:>Daiko jumped into the hug as well.
:>One day I'll be big enough to protect you daddy!
:>I had to swallow a lump in my throat.
:>It took a few swallows but I got it down far enough I could answer her.
:>I know you will sweety. I'll be waiting for that day.
:>As winter rolled into spring we had a Mochi pounding festival
:>The workers for the sake works had brought along their families, of course.
:>There were now five children in Ishigaki Mura, aside from my own little brood.
:>I took part, pounding that rice into a nice gooey paste with all my might as the village cheered me on.
:>Color was added, making the mochi a light pink, to match the sakura blossoms and the mochi was filled with sweet bean paste.
:>As Naomi and Toshiro led the village in the proper observances, we welcomed the turning of the seasons with a great celebration of life.
:>Several days latter, a messenger came, with a reminder to us all that the way of the warrior is the way of death.

:>A rider, with an honor guard of Imperial Legionaries, AND a Crab patrol came up to the house.
:>A young woman, unarmored, rode in the center of the formation.
:>She tipped back her jingasa and looked around.
:>Sniffed when she saw the armed peasants, but said nothing.
:>I am here to speak to Hida Naomi, or Hida Toshiro.
:>I peered at her Kimono, trying to spot the mon.
:>Seven crescent moons, surrounding a concentric circle
:>Oh. Oh shit.
:>I bowed deeply.
:>They are inside, Miya-sama.
:>I turned and went inside while the Miya woman got down off her horse.
:>Toshiro! Naomi! Important visitor!
:>I heard the thumpdraging of Toshiro heading to the room we used for meeting with guests.
:>Shino ran up.
:>How important.
:>I whispered.
:>A Miya.
:>He blanched.
:>I'll see to the children.
:>Please do.
:>The Miya came in behind me, looking around in surprise at the various bits of art on the walls.
:>My wife has an eye for art.
:>I see.
:>This is the home of Hida Naomi, correct?
:>Hai, Miya-sama.
:>Then that would make you Hida Ishigaki.
:>Hai, Miya-sama.
:>I was surprised that a Miya would know who I was.
:>It wasn't like I was very high ranked or anything.
:>I brought her to the room where Toshiro and Naomi were waiting, and a servant brought out some tea.
:>Everyone bowed their greetings.
:>Since I knew two of the people in the room introductions fell to me.
:>Hida Naomi, Kuni Toshiro, this is Miya...
:>Sakurai.
:>I heard that neither of you attended any of the winter courts this year.
:>Naomi answered.
:>That is true Miya-sama. I had to rest for health reasons.
:>I see.
:>You are recovered now, though?
:>Hai.
:>Good.
:>She sipped her tea
:>As you are all Crabs I will get straight to the point.
:>The war last year between the Mantis and Phoenix has not died down.
:>It has, in fact, grown larger.
:>All the Clans that have been providing assistance to one side or the other are now joining in in full.
:>Naomi's eyes widened.

:>Ordinarily inter-clan conflict of such scale would not be allowed.
:>However, the participants do not all join in the war directly.
:>Rather, the allies of the Phoenix make war on the allies of the Mantis, and vice versa.
:>The Crane and Scorpion were at each other's throats all winter. It was quite... messy.
:>The Lion were going to war on the Scorpion, but the Dragon declared they would war on the Lion.
:>So the Crane have entreated the Crab to make war on the Scorpion instead.
:>I take it you have not heard any of this yet.
:>Toshiro spoke.
:>No, we have been away from the affairs of the world.
:>Naomi-san was resting, while I was tending to the kami in the wastes.
:>Sakurai nodded.
:>Well. Since we all understand the reasons behind this war the Imperial Observes will be out in force.
:>She looked down, eyes closed.
:>This summer will be one of the bloodiest in centuries, and the Emperor's eyes and ears will ensure the conflict grows no farther than it is now.
:>Otomo Jun will be overseeing the war between Crab and Scorpion.
:>She paused.
:>Otomo Jun-sama's yojimbo was murdered. He had protected her for over ten years.
:>We determined he was slain by Maho.
:>Ahh. Now it becomes clear.
:>The Jade Champion reports his servants have been encountering Maho-Tsukai at an alarming rate these last few years.
:>Many Magistrates have died or gone missing as well.
:>This then, is your task.
:>You will protect Otomo Jun from the Maho-Tsukai, and keep a close eye out for Maho use in this war.
:>Toshiro nodded.
:>I take it the life of the Observer is the most important of the two.
:>Obviously.
:>You have both a Mantis and a Dragon in your service, do you not?
:>Yes, Miya-sama.
:>And you can all place your duty to the Emperor above your loyalty to your own Clans?
:>Of course Miya-sama.
:>Good.
:>Miya Sakurai produced a map.
:>You will await Otomo Jun-sama here.
:>Tsuyosa began to cry about then.
:>Ah! Please, excuse me!

:>Sakurai looked at Naomi.
:>You have a child?
:>I have three, Miya-sama. But I gave birth at end of summer
:>Ah. So you will need a wet nurse then.
:>Naomi bit her lip.
:>Hai. It is as you say, Miya-sama. A war is no place for an infant...
:>I spoke out of turn.
:>Does it have to be both of them?
:>Do you really need two jade magistrates?
:>Sakurai glared at me, then sniffed dismissively
:>Come now, is this really an issue?
:>Many children have wet nurses.
:>She turned away and sipped her tea, letting me know she considered the matter closed.
:>Bitch.
:>I left before I said something I shouldn't and joined Naomi.
:>She was nursing Tsuyosa, smiling. But her eyes were narrowed just a bit, a tightness in the corners.
:>...now I must abandon him while he is still nursing?
:>I sat down and put an arm around her shoulder.
:>That's a bit much, don't you think?
:>It IS about time to start giving him solid food Naomi.
:>Yes but...
:>There weren't really words for this situation.
:>These were moments you didn't get back. That you couldn't relive.
:>Naomi treasured each second she spent with the children, and the time she spent nursing was some of the most precious.
:>I didn't understand why that was, but I knew how serene and happy Naomi looked when she fed our children.
:>While it was true Tsuyosa should be getting his first taste of real food soon, he'd still be nursing on and off for another six months, at least...
:>Nana One-eye opened the door to the room just a crack.
:>Forgive my intrusion, Great Samurai.
:>I just heard.
:>I glanced to Naomi, who nodded.
:>Come on in, Nana.
:>Thank you, Great Samurai.
:>You know you do not have to call us that, right?
:>Though I am truly blessed to have such kind masters, I would not wish to be spoiled so much I forget my place before another Samurai.
:>Fair enough.
:>Great Samurai, I have just learned that I will be having my second grandchild come fall.
:>Oh? Well, congratulations are in order.
:>Thank you Great Samurai.

:>Naomi closed her eyes.
:>So... Akiko then?
:>Nana One-Eye bowed her head and said nothing.
:>Hmm. Yes, if Akiko is willing to this for me, for us.
:>She would be honored Great Samurai.
:>I know how difficult it can be to give your child up for another woman to feed, so I hopped that at least she not be a stranger to you.
:>Thank you Nana, for your consideration.
:>Tsuyosa let go, nuzzled against Naomi's chest, and fell asleep.
:>Nana One-Eye bowed and left us.
:>I gave Naomi a few soothing backrubs before heading back out.
:>I was, on paper at least, the master of this house.
:>I should see my guest off.
:>Miya Sakurai was already heading towards the door, having finished giving Toshiro the particulars.
:>You will not need to contact the rest of your Yoriki, that has been handled.
:>You will all meet at the designated place.
:>Do your best in service to the Emperor.
:>She mounted up and rode off with her honor guard.
:>How long until we have to leave, Toshiro?
:>He frowned.
:>A month. Jun-sama wants to oversee the mustering as well as the fighting.
:>Damn.
:>Ishigaki... There's going to be Scorpion everywhere.
:>Yeah. I know.
:>I HAD accidentally foiled a Scorpion plot.
:>So I would need to be very, very careful.
:>Furthermore, Amano's cousin had said, though not in so many words, that he would kill me if he had the chance.
:>It was unlikely that I would run into that specific Bayushi in the midst of a war though... right?