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Chapter 7: A Temple upon Mt. Koya
I awaken with a start, and my body shoots up, pushing away a blanket. My eyes focus, and I notice myself in a low lit room.
"Ah, you've awakened."
Startled, I turn my upper body in the direction of the voice and see a monk on his knees in a corner, his hands clasped, with prayer beads hanging from between them.
How is it that I find myself in a temple?
He stands, his beads dangling from his right hand, and walks towards me.
He seats himself on his knees again and says, "I'm not surprised to see the confused expression upon your face. I and another were searching the mountain for herbs, when I came upon you and a horse nearby."
I nod my head yes as he continues, "We were able to lift you up and have the horse carry you here."
I lean forward in a bow and say, "Thank you very much."
"It was merely what we should have done."
"Then I…" I say as I push further away the blanket and try to stand, but stop, writhing in pain.
His tone concerned, he says, "You're injured, you will need to rest more."
I consternate, it is true that my body is not in the best condition, but, as time passes, so goes autumn into winter. Wanting more information, I carefully move the blanket off, and look at my arms and legs.
"I believe that your bones remain unbroken, and your cuts are not deep. You are fortunate, your recovery shall not be long."
"That is good to hear," I respond.
"You are probably wondering about this place. This is one of many temples upon this mountain."
That would explain the holy people in the village below.
"This is a shrine to the Kami of the Juunishi."
Hearing this words, I look at him, with an expression of surprise.
"Have you heard the story of the Kami of this shrine? He is a Kami of animals. For all of time, he shall gather them in his home. I too, have great respect for animals, and that is why I have chosen this order."
Surely, if this Kami exists, I have come to the right place!
His words filled with sadness he says, "Your eyes are aglow with a certain delight, one not seen for love of our animal brethren, but for a different purpose."
I look angrily at him and say, "My thoughts are none of your concern, and should not be of your interest."
He nods his head as he says, "Truly, you are correct. I came upon you to be of help, not hindrance. You shall make your own choices."
For a fleeting moment, I am reminded of her own words that day.
Not wanting to remember, I quickly block the thoughts from my mind and turn my face away and say, "I thank you for your hospitality. I will be staying only as long as necessary, and then shall be on my way."
"Of course, you are welcome here."
I remain in the room for most of the days that I spend there, regaining my strength. I try to walk, my first attempts unsuccessful, but, with practice and time, my ability improves. When I am stable, I step outside to see my surroundings. The temple is in a valley like area, and small fields and gardens can be seen spotting the landscape surrounding the building. I notice my horse being fed by a monk, and approach it. I am relieved when I see that it seems unhurt. After a short stroll, I feel slight pains, and, not wanting to overexert myself at this point, decide to return inside.
When I arrive, I lie down to rest. Time passes and, as usual, the monk to whom I first spoke brings me my evening meal. Since our first conversation, he has remained genial, but is now more distant. When in my presence, his face displays a look of pity, which annoys me a great deal, as it reminds me again of her - the last expression of hers that I had seen.
One evening, as he brings me my meal, he seats himself near me and says, "I have seen your condition improve, I believe that tomorrow you shall be fit enough."
I nod my head yes as I answer, "Indeed, I also believe that is the case."
Expecting undesired advice, I am surprised when he leaves quietly, and I find myself eating my meal in silence. After I finish, I place my dishes and tray to the side and move under the covers. In suspense of the morning, I find it difficult to sleep, and spend mostly a wakeful night.
Morning at last arrives and I quickly gather my things and wash my face in the basin. The monk enters with a tray and places it down on the floor.
"We have gathered some rations for you as a farewell gift."
I bow again and say, "Thank you for all that you have done for me during this time."
"I am glad that I could have been of service."
He bows before he exits. After he has gone, I rapidly consume my food. When I finish, I collect my belongings and gifts before going outside to find my horse, already saddled in anticipation of my continued journey. I place my possessions over the saddle and mount. Before setting off once more, I look back a final time.
