HI GUYS!
THIS IS KINGNIKEN WITH CHAPTER 2 OF DISHONORABLE.
I JUST REALLY LIKE THIS FUSION OF KOMI CAN'T COMMUNICATE AND GHOST OF TSUSHIMA.
THANKS TO THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR KUDOS AND ESPECIALLY THOSE THAT LEFT THEIR REVIEW AND COMMENTS.
THIS SECOND CHAPTER IS ONLY HERE BECAUSE OF YOU, SO THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR CONTRIBUTION.
HERE YA GO!
An entire week had passed since the Mongol's failed attempt to kidnap Shouko Komi.
For the Jito's daughter it had been seven days of being a prisoner within the confines of her own bedroom, only family members and a few high ranking servants were allowed to see and converse with her.
Shouko was understandably a bit frustrated by the situation but she ultimately acknowledged that her father's decision had been made in order to give her time to recover both physically and mentally.
After patiently riding out the week of solitude she believed it was time for her to return to 'normal' everyday life.
Masayoshi Komi studied his daughter intensely as she stated her heartfelt request to him.
"Are...you sure that you don't need more time?"
Shouko shook her head.
"I am rested...and ready...to continue my...duties as the... Jito's daughter and heir."
Masayoshi exhaled audibly before nodding.
"Very well, you are allowed to leave your room and the castle but it will be some time before I'll allow any member of our family to leave Itan. The audacity of these invaders to attack you so close to our home shows their intentions and recklessness. We must be wary of their ploys."
Komi nodded in agreement as a servant entered the private meeting room with a bow.
"My Lord."
Masayoshi acknowledged the man with a small smile.
"You may speak, Katsura-san."
"Lady Yuiko and Lady Shuuko wish to have Lady Shouko join them in the recreation room once you have finished your discussion with her."
The Jito nodded.
"Ah yes, they did mention that earlier. You should go Shouko, those ladies have much to show you. We will talk more later."
Shouko honored her father with a bow of respect before leaving to find her mother and grandmother.
Masayoshi smiled sadly as his offspring walked away.
"They grow up so fast, gods please continue to watch over my children."
Shouko's eyes widened at the colorful display before her.
Gifts.
A table covered and overflowing with them.
Her mother explained as the trio of women sat down beside the large brown table.
"These are tokens from the various clans and businessmen within the town as they wish you a speedy recovery. They were all happy to hear that you were alive and doing well."
Yuiko continued.
"The common folk mostly gave us rice, fish, fruits and vegetables. They were also gratefully accepted but to prevent waste we have already used some of the ingredients in our daily meals. The rest has been added to the castle's food supply."
Shuuko nodded.
"Yes, your father and I personally thanked each farmer that came by but we believed that the each of the Samurai clans and a few other persons would do well to receive a personal letter from you."
Yuiko explained further.
"Not only to show your gratitude but to help you build a lasting connection with them. These are the men and women who will help us further the development of Tsushima, especially when you are named Jito."
Shouko hands shivered but she remembered it was best not to dwell on the thoughts surrounding her reluctance to become Jito for too long.
She would focus on the task at hand.
Letters.
She could handle writing letters.
As long as she didn't have to speak to any of the persons directly, she would be fine.
Shuuko reached out for a nearby packet of cloth.
"You should look at each gift, Shouko-chan. It will help you personalize each message, this winter scarf is from Clan Onemine. It is a wonderful shade of blue and the material is so soft..."
The feminine trio took their team to examine each gift commenting on it's beauty, practical use or creative design.
As her mother removed a kimono set from the table, Shouko spotted something peeking out from underneath the giant pile.
As curiosity took full control, the young lady found herself shifting the other gifts around to get a good look at what the mysterious object was.
A small gasp of surprise fell from her lips as she finally managed to reveal the item's identity.
The lavender colored wooden object turned out to be a hilt...the hilt of a katana.
A katana that Shouko had seen somewhere before...
Her mother spoke first.
"Ah yes, that katana was also left here by one of the town's new citizens. If I remember correctly it was a soft spoken young man, seemed to be very polite."
Yuiko unsheathed the blade and weighed in with her hands.
Shouko and her mother were well aware that the elderly woman was also an experienced warrior that had fought for Tsushima on several occasions in her younger years.
If anyone in the room could estimate the true value of a katana just by feeling it, it would be her.
The Komi matriarch ran her finger along the side of the blade before sheathing it and handing it back to Shouko.
"That is a finely crafted blade. Your grandfather would have loved to see such a beautiful weapon."
Shuuko smiled.
"I see. Do you know who may have brought this Shouko?"
Shouko nodded, a small smile on her face.
"Yes. His name is... Hitohito Tadano. He works...at the...new weapons shop."
Yuiko perched an eyebrow.
"Oh? The one where you purchased the bow? You must have left quite the positive impression on him if he gave such a wonderful sword."
"He...is my...friend."
The pair of older women did their best to withhold their overwhelming excitement and intrigue.
Neither ever remembered Shouko speaking of having a 'friend'.
Yuiko smiled gently as she placed her hand on her granddaughter's thigh.
"Perhaps you should thank your friend for such a kind gesture, face to face?"
Shouko nodded.
"I will...tomorrow. There's something...I still wish to do... before the end of the day. I was hoping...everyone...would join me."
The garden shrine was illuminated with a mixture of orange and purple courtesy of the setting sun.
The religious monument had been instituted as a place where Itan's citizens and visitors could pay their respects to Samurai who had been slain carrying out their most honored duty.
Sadly the shrine had seen an enormous increase in visitors and activity since the Mongol invasion began.
Clan Komi, a large group of their servants and Samurai protectors knelt in silence and respect as Shouko presented an offering and a prayer for the warriors that died protecting her.
The members of the public close enough to witness the event also withheld their speech and reactions in awe and reverence for the meaning of Shouko's actions.
The Jito's firstborn bowed before the shrine as she whispered within the halls of her heart and mind.
"Thank you for your sacrifice. I promise your words and actions will not be in vain. Watch over us as we drive these invaders out."
As the group departed the shrine and returned to Castle Komi, Yuiko approached her son.
"Masayoshi..."
"Mother?"
"The gods have blessed us."
"Yes. There is not a day that has passed where I haven't thanked them for protecting our family."
"True but I speak of something else."
"Hmmm?"
"There have not been many lords and vassals who have mourned the Samurai who have fought and died for them, Shouko did this without any prompting. She truly is a kind child. While we are here we must do our best to guide these children. For the good of Clan Komi and Tsushima."
Masayoshi smiled at his mother before taking her hand.
"Yes. The gods have been very kind."
THE NEXT DAY
Shouko and her new Samurai protectors made their way though Itan at a steady pace. As expected several groups of the citizenry and visitors drew close enough to catch a glimpse of the lavender haired beauty.
The Clan heir took note that were more smiling faces among the crowds that watched her.
Yesterday's visit to the town's shrine had been widely publicized by the townsfolk and had been well received.
Her actions had not been done for political clout or to gain favor with the town's residents but Shouko knew that for her family, every word and deed would be weighed and judged for intent.
She could only hope that there would be some persons reconsidering their harsh conclusions and beliefs of who she was or how she viewed them.
A small smile graced Shouko's face as they drew closer to the large circular tent.
She checked her kimono for any wrinkles or spots and ran a hand through her hair to ensure that it was still neat and perfect.
Why did the thought of seeing her friend again make her feel so nervous yet happy?
With a quick hand signal, she once again ordered her Samurai guard to stay on the outside unless summoned.
It wouldn't be good for them to come in and threaten her only friend a second time.
There were several new weapons and armor pieces on display, the store also seemed to be rearranged to make space for other stock and merchandise.
Shouko eyed a nearby arrow set before turning her attention to the empty counter.
Where was Tadano-san?
Had he left the store open like this?
Itan wasn't known for being a den of thieves but there were still reports of missing goods and disappearing jewelry from time to time.
A young feminine voice called out from what seemed to be a back room.
"I'll be right with ya! Just doing a little cleaning!"
Shouko froze.
Who was that?
As promised a young lady emerged from the back dressed in a dusty cloak and a headband.
It was obvious that she had been hard at work for some time.
Her warm smile was eerily similar to Hitohito's.
"Welcome! How can I...Komi-sama?!?!?!?"
The young girl looked down at her dirty apparel before bowing.
"My apologies for presenting myself before you in such a sorry state. If you are willing to wait I could change and clean up a bit."
Shouko waved her hands about comically.
"Hmhmhmhmhm."
The girl blinked.
"Uh...okay?"
Shouko pulled out the parchment and her writing instrument and quickly started writing.
The young girl's eyes widened.
"Wait! Those are my..."
Shouko lifted the paper for the girl to read.
"It's fine. I understand that you were cleaning. No need to change on my account."
"Uh...thank you for understanding, Komi-sama. Was there something I could help you with?"
"I was hoping to speak with Tadano-san."
"Tadano-san ? Oh you mean my brother...my apologies Komi-sama. Hitohito's...out of town. He's making a visit to our forge to collect some new pieces. I doubt he will be back anytime today."
The sting of disappointment that pierced Shouko only confirmed how much she wished to converse with her new friend.
A sad smile crossed the face of the Jito's firstborn as she wrote a new message.
"I see. Thank you for letting me know. Could you let him know I was here?"
"Of course Komi-sama! I'll make sure it's the first thing he knows once he gets back!"
Another thought crossed Komi's mind. Something that the young girl had said.
"Did you say that he was your brother?"
The girl nodded.
"Yup! I'm Hitomi Tadano. Hitohito's little sister and co-owner of the shop. It was an honor to be of service to you...by the way did you like the katana?"
Shouko blushed before nodding. She didn't trust her hands to write out a message or gratitude.
Hitomi continued.
"I'm sure Hitohito will be glad to know. He picked it out himself...in fact it's one of the few weapons that he personally made. He's naturally gifted."
Shouko absorbed the knowledge like a sponge to water. She would be bringing it up whenever she got the chance to speak to Hitohito again.
The Clan's 'princess' quickly scribbled out a new message.
"I have taken up so much of your time. I do apologize. Thank you for the gift, please remember to pass on my message to Tadano-san."
"Oh it was no trouble, thank you for your patronage...oh but before you go, Komi-sama!"
Hitomi dived behind the counter, a few seconds of noisy searching passed before she got back up.
The younger of the Tadano siblings smiled as she handed Shouko a small bag.
"More writing tools and wax balls. My brother asked me to make some more but I had no idea it was for someone as special as you, Komi-sama. I'll try to whip up a bigger batch for you next time."
Shouko accepted the bag with a small smile before presenting Hitomi with a bow of gratitude.
Hitomi spoke again.
"It has been a true honor, Komi-sama."
The Clan heiress quickly excused herself and Hitomi found herself alone inside the shop once more.
She scratched her chin speculatively as she recalled her brother's most recent words and actions.
"That idiot. He could have asked his merchant friend to find something really nice for the 'princess'. Boys will always be boys I suppose...I hope he's doing ok."
The Next Afternoon
Castle Komi
The Jito and his family had just finished having lunch. Even with non-stop meetings and war councils, the island's leading authority always ensured he made time for his family.
Just as Masayoshi prepared to excuse himself to return to his private study, Shousuke captured his attention with a question.
"Father...any news... of the Ghost?"
Masayoshi and Yuiko shared a look of concern before the Jito responded to his son.
"Our latest reports indicate that the Ghost has recently destroyed two hidden Mongul encampments within Itan's province and has liberated another Farmstead. The Samurai forces are re-enforcing defenses there to prevent its' recapture."
Each family member processed the information in silence. Masayoshi observed his son's ponderous face for a few moments before posing a question of his own.
"Tell me Shousuke, your interest in the Ghost has increased much in the past few days. Is there something you're seeking to learn from these rumors?"
Shousuke nodded.
"At first...I was just curious...but I wish...to speak to him... thank him...for saving...Shouko."
Yuiko sighed.
"I understand how you feel my grandson, our entire family is grateful for Shouko's safety...but I once again call upon you to keep in mind that this 'Ghost' would also be seen as a criminal in the eyes of the Shogunate. We cannot publicly recognize him as an ally even if he slaughters every single Mongol himself."
Shousuke responded.
"Do you think...the Shogunate could be... convinced to see things...differently?"
His grandmother shook her head.
"The Way of the Samurai is our creed, law and way of life. I do not know if we will ever accept another path."
Shousuke frowned.
"Then the..Shogunate...is terribly mistaken...and foolish."
Shuuko's eyes widened.
"Shousuke!"
Masayoshi held up a hand to prevent his mother and wife from speaking any further.
Shouko was just as surprised at her brother's statement but also obeyed her father's order to stay quiet.
The Jito spoke calmly.
"I will excuse your comments as youthful ignorance, Shousuke. Ensure that statements of such a nature never leave your lips again. These are the words of rebellious men...and I'm sure your teachers have told you tales of how the Shogun has asked us to quell rebellions."
Shousuke furrowed his brow.
Was his father implying that..?
Lord Komi spoke once more.
"If you are having...certain difficulties, feel free to come speak to me in my study. You may bring your mother with you if you wish for to be present."
Shousuke nodded as Shouko placed her hand on his.
The two normally quiet siblings had quite the bond.
Despite the lack of verbal communication, the two seemed to understand their current feelings quite well. After staring into his sister's eyes, Shousuke spoke once more.
"My apologies, Father...My words were... unwise and brash."
"It is fine, my offer for a private audience still stands."
"Thank you."
The servant Katsura once again approached the ruling family with a bow.
"Lord Komi, we have a visitor waiting on the outside."
Masayoshi tried to recall his schedule for the evening as he considered who it might be.
Had he requested a meeting?
"Is it a representative from one of the Samurai clans?"
Izumi responded.
"No my Lord, he seems to be a young businessman from the town."
"Please ask one of our magistrates to speak with him, if it isn't something they can handle I'll try to make myself available."
"My apologies Lord Komi, I may have been unclear. The visitor did not ask to see you, he wishes to speak with Lady Shouko."
A pause.
It had been a while since anyone had so brazenly requested an audience with Shouko.
Not since the Jito and his personal Samurai guard had... strongly dissuaded the last few visitors.
Shuuko spoke.
"Perhaps another citizen comes bearing a gift for her recovery?"
Yuiko shrugged.
"No we have already given instructions on how that is to be handled. Perhaps it is a marriage proposal? Shouko is finally at that age and I doubt the island is short of Samurai and businessmen who would wish to wed the Jito's daughter and heir."
Shouko almost imploded at the thought, her body literally vibrated with stress and fear.
She just recently made her first friend and now she was to start considering marriage ?
Sensing his daughter's stressful reaction, Masayoshi decided to step in.
"Please inform our visitor that my daughter is not available at this time and if they wish to see her they will have to make an appointment with me. Did they give you their full name?"
"Ah yes, Hitohito Tadano."
"Hmmmphh!"
Shouko stood to her feet with no small amount of energy, Masayoshi's left eye twitched as he recognized this stance.
His daughter was excited.
The Jito frowned as he spoke.
"You wish to speak with this person?"
Shouko nodded.
"Yes...he is...my friend."
Masayoshi's twitching worsened.
"I-i-i see. Then you should go speak with him. You may use the castle gardens to accommodate your guest."
As the Jito's daughter excused herself and followed Katsura out of the dining room, Masayoshi narrowed his eyes.
"Did anyone else know of this...boy who Shouko has befriended?"
Shousuke shook his head while Yuiko and Shuuko stayed uncharacteristically quiet.
"Mother? Dear?"
Shuuko blushed.
"He is the...owner of the new weapon shop. Shouko bought the Autumn offering there."
Yuiko continued.
"Yes! He also the one who had gifted her with the lovely katana that she displays on her bedroom wall."
Masayoshi tilted his head.
"Oh? And none of you saw it fit to tell me about him?"
Shuuko tried to deescalate things.
"He's just a friend."
Masayoshi countered his wife.
"He's her first friend and a boy."
Yuiko spoke up.
"Yes my son, we also noticed his gender."
Masayoshi narrowed his eyes at the feminine pair as Shousuke discretely signalled a nearby Samurai to follow after his sister.
His father noticed the gesture and mentally smirked.
"Well done, Shousuke!"
Unfortunately Shuuko also noticed the gesture.
"Karou-san, could you please return to your post?"
The Samurai returned to his guard spot with a small sigh.
Shuuko spoke again.
"I apologize for not telling you sooner dear and I will make my amends but this is our daughter's first friend. We should give her an opportunity to grow, we may watch from a distance to protect her but it's time she really socialized with others of the same age group. Same goes for you Shousuke, I know you love your sister but Tadano-san is important to her. Please respect that."
Both males deflated before agreeing to not interfere unless called upon. Shuuko smiled at her husband and son before glancing at her Mother-in-law.
Yuiko winked.
The both of them were already looking into the Tadano boy and didn't need these two messing up their investigation with any rash actions.
The castle gardens served as a beautiful semi-private space for Shouko to catch up with Hitohito.
Several of the castle's guards stood at their various posts, not close enough to be intruding on the pair but not too far to prevent them from stepping in at a moment's notice.
Tadano didn't seem to be bothered by their presence, the black haired young man was more particularly entranced by some of the garden's colorful members.
"These are beautiful and quite rare if I'm not mistaken, I'm not sure if I've ever seen them anywhere else on the island."
Shouko recognized the crimson petaled plant easily. Her scribbling was the only other sound that accompanied the gentle gusts of wind.
"They are a gift from one of father's old friends. They are from the mainland."
"Ah I see. Have you ever been to the mainland?"
"Once, when I was much younger but I don't remember much..."
"Well once we've repelled these invaders I'm sure you'll be able to go and visit as often as you like."
"Yes. That would be lovely."
Tadano paused as he sniffed another nearby flower.
"I...I know everyone has probably been asking you this but forgive me as I also need to know. How...are you doing?"
Shouko smiles.
"I'm good now. I took some days to recover and ready myself."
Tadano smiled.
"That's great."
Shouko quickly wrote out a follow up line.
"Thank you for the katana. It's beautiful. My grandmother says it is well made."
Tadano's cheeks reddened slightly as he rubbed the back of his head.
"When you first came to our shop, you looked it over several times. I assumed that you really liked it. I thought it would make a good gift."
"Your sister said that the you're the one who made it. Are you the one who makes all of the store's weapons?"
Hitohito hesitated.
And beneath his happy smile and calm aura, Shouko saw a flash of sadness and anger pass within the portals of his eyes.
"I've only made a few...most of them are made by our team of blacksmiths back at our family's forge. My sister and I travel the island to sell our wares."
Shouko's hands gripped the roll of paper tightly.
Did that mean Hitohito wouldn't be in Itan for long?
Mysteriously her first and only friend read her mind once again and followed up a statement that brought her great relief.
"We've had some good business in the capital and from surrounding towns and this is one of the safest regions on the island. We have both agreed that we should stay here for some time."
Shouko relaxed and released a breath that she didn't realize that she was holding.
A new voice called out to the pair of teenagers.
"Lady Shouko and our honored guest?"
Shouko and Hitohito turned their attention to a elderly female servant carrying a small tray of fruit.
"These are the refreshments that you requested, Lady Shouko. Lady Shuuko and Lady Yuiko apologize for the delay."
The lavender haired beauty blinked before realizing the hidden message within the servant's words.
She had welcomed a guest into their home and had not offered him anything!
Shouko resolved to thank her mother and grandmother later for their foresight. She was still fairly new to all of this.
To the surprise of the two females present, Hitohito quickly stepped forward and relieved the servant of her load.
"Please, allow me."
"Oh...you are too kind my lord."
Hitohito smirked.
"Nonsense, you are the one who brought this tray all the way down here. I appreciate what you have done. Please also pass on my gratitude to everyone else. These fruits look ripe and delicious ."
The servant bowed.
"Certainly sir, please excuse me."
Tadano returned the bow while Komi nodded nervously.
The servant began her journey back up to the castle with a small smile on her face.
With her years of experience dealing with nobility, warriors and the other economic classes she had learned to read people quite well.
That young man was genuinely kind.
"I'll have to tell the others about this. The last man that offered to take a tray from me like that was...Lord Masayoshi himself. How interesting."
Tadano turned to face Shouko with tray in hand.
"I saw a few benches under a tree, shall we?"
Shouko nodded happily as she led Hitohito down the path.
Shouko's hands slowly penciled out a question as the pair watched the trees dance in the wind.
"Do you...have a dream?"
Hitohito studied the paper for a few seconds.
"You mean like a goal? Well..."
Tadano looked into the distance, his eyes seemed to be going further than the edges of the town's borders.
"...in the short term, it would be to see the island free and thriving again but I'm sure all of us want that."
Shouko watched with interest as her friend ran a hand through his raven colored hair.
"When I was younger I wanted to be a great blacksmith just like my father and grandfather before me but now...I guess I just want to live a 'normal' life. It's kind of hard to explain but I was hoping just to be average and happy..."
Tadano chuckled.
"...sorry it must be disappointing hearing such a lame answer."
Shouko shook her.
"No. That actually sounds rather nice."
The young blacksmith chuckled.
"Does it? I think you're the first person to ever think so. What about you? Any dreams of your own?"
Shouko nervously bit her lip.
"Promise not to laugh."
Hitohito took another bite of before smiling.
"I would never."
Shouko blushed in embarrassment as she slowly wrote the words before turning the paper back for his eyes to see.
"I wish to make a 100 friends from all over the island!"
Hitohito nodded as he scratched his chin. A dream like that would make sense considering what he knew of the girl so far...
"That's an admirable goal. There is a special beauty in friendship that is not easily found anywhere else. It is also not a bad idea for a future Jito to have companions from different walks of life."
Shouko's happy energy faltered just a bit right at the end of her friend's statement.
Hitohito had certainly not missed it.
"...I apologize. It seems I made a an assumption...You're not sure about becoming the next Jito?"
Shouko nodded, hiding her face in the hopes that Hitohito would not berate her for such an inclination.
"Does your family know?"
Shouko shook her head.
"I see...then there is no reason to worry about it."
The Komi clan heir raised her head slowly. The gentle peace and assurance in Tadano's eyes gave her the impression that he was more than confident in what he was saying.
"What do you mean?"
"They are your family. If they truly love you then they'll respect your choice when you make it. Just take your time and focus on becoming a 'Shouko Komi' that you can be proud of."
Shouko was left speechless as another gentle breeze swept over the pair, what road had this young man traveled to have garner such maturity.
He was barely a year older than her yet she felt his wisdom dwarfed hers immensely.
Hitohito closed his eyes and took a deep breath, the wind's slight chill was a sign of the approaching evening. A question sparked in the halls of his mind and he decided to ask it.
"So your dream is to get a hundred friends from all over the island, right?"
Shouko nodded.
"How many do you have so far?"
The Jito's daughter blushed before scribbling out a single word.
"You."
"Ah...I see..."
Hitohito stood up and stretched.
"Well as your first and most trusted friend I promise to play my part in getting you to your goal! And I know just where to start! Tell me Komi-san, are you free tomorrow?"
Shouko's mind was quick to remind her of the different appointments she was expected to keep for various portions of the day.
"No, but I'll be free the day after that."
"Good. I'll come by in the afternoon, are you allowed to leave the castle?"
"Yes but not the town."
"That's ok, we're gonna head over to the markets."
"The markets? Why?"
Hitohito grinned.
"I want you to meet the island's friendliest merchant."
Port Izumi
Mongol Camp
Khotun Khan came from a proud lineage, cousin of the current ruler Kublai Khan, grandson of the world famous Genghis Khan.
Triumph, victory and wisdom ran deep along his bloodline, deep within the very veins and soul of his own body.
Conquest was his greatest joy, vanquishing foes brought thrills that neither women nor strong drink could ever emulate.
His cousin knew and understood that fact well.
That is why he was handed this mission.
To capture this island of farmers and merchants.
It would serve as a stage and foothold for their campaign against the mainland.
It would be the beginning of their long yet victorious march to the Shogun and his eventual beheading.
Khotun would not be stopped.
Delayed?
Perhaps, but smart warriors often planned for the unexpected.
Attacked?
He anticipated it.
But stopped?
Never.
Not by this island.
Not by their warriors.
The war general stepped out of his private quarters to greet a small group of captains that had been summoned by his order.
"Do you know why I have called you here?"
The captains remained silent, years of serving under the terrifying Khotun Khan had taught them the difference between his genuine and rhetorical questions.
"Your squadrons were tasked last night with patrolling the area around our camp. However I've received reports that one of your squads did not patrol their assigned area in full. Why is that?"
Five of the six captains stepped back. The remaining Mongul warrior realized in that second that he had been outed.
One of Khotun's guards handed him a sword.
"I await a response."
The captain took a moment to compose himself.
"My...team believed that we had encountered the enemy last night trying to sneak up on our encampment. We strategically retreated so we could gather reinforcements to face the Samurai."
Khotun frowned.
"You lie."
"Lord Khan I assure you we-"
"Silence! You may have heard something but it was no Samurai, we all know that they are far too bound by their codes of honor to sneak around like thieves. You thought that someone else was in that forest. Correct?"
The captain gulped.
"We...we were not sure-"
"You thought it was The Ghost."
The captain hung his head.
"...Yes."
Khotun studied the man for a few moments before smiling.
"Tremendous work, captain."
The entire group became nervous, the Khan wasn't always one for compliments.
The accused captain spoke once more.
"Lord Khan?"
"Caution has it's place in the warrior's path. The Ghost has killed many Mongul men and have foiled much of our plans. He is the one twisted thorn that truly protects this rose of an island..."
The Khotun made sure to look each of his captains in the eye as he walked in a circle around them.
"...He has proven himself to be quite the adversary and I expect my warriors to be alert...wary of his skills, weapons and tactics. He is of a different breed and I acknowledge that. Once again I have no issue with you being cautious, captain..."
The Khan returned the sword to his guard before preparing to re-enter his private lodging. The captains bowed as one.
"Thank you for your wisdom lord Khan!"
Khotun chuckled before speaking again.
"... However I believe it is the fear of your men that may have further influenced your decision, captain. Caution I can appreciate, fear I wil not. Cowardice and superstition will make them weak and unreliable."
Khotun gave the captain one more order.
"This is my judgment. Hold a feast for your team, tonight. Whoever eats the most food and drink, slice open his throat and belly. Let the whole camp know that I will not feed and accommodate the fearful...if they wish to be afraid of someone then it should not be the Ghost...but me."
WOW.
SO THAT WAS CHAPTER 2 OF DISHONORABLE.
HOPE YOU GUYS LIKED IT.
PLEASE REMEMBER TO REVIEW/COMMENT/FAV/KUDOS ETC IF YOU WISH.
THANKS AGAIN FOR YOUR TIME.
THIS WAS YOUR BOY KINGNIKEN
PEACE.