Today was a special day. After a night of some difficulty falling asleep due to the excitement, Ryuunosuke had woken a bit earlier than usual to the sounds of the birds chattering. He walked to his fusuma and slid it open. Ryuu took in the fresh, chilly air it refreshed his mind and removed any trace of the morning grogginess. There was much to do today. He was to grant audience to anyone who wished to communicate with the Mitsumine after the recent winter break. Then came the duty of leading his people in this new year. Ryuu was not naïve. He knew that the Daimyo’s influence and power had been declining in the last several years. In fact, some of the lords in the Wolf Clan were exhibiting signs of secession through a display of autonomy in the recent years. On top of that, who knew what the Tiger Clan was scheming. Its war-hawkish attitude was always a concern. Then there was always the political intrigue that occurred in the inner court. Anyone could try to sneak a blade into his own personal quarters. 

Still, Ryuu would not yield to the challenges and threats that he faced. After all, he had a responsibility to the people who follow his rule to lead them and their future to prosperity and happiness. Thus, he walked back to his room and changed into his kimono, which wasn’t too flashy or bright. Rather, it was a reserved shade of blue, but the material that it was made out of was suitable for someone of his status. In fact, most of Ryuu’s clothing was like that. Simple in design, but made out of great material, his clothing made sure that he wasn’t pompous in appearance, but maintained his status. After all, this was the most cost effective measure. Why spend extra for something flashy when that extra could feed a family for a month? Such superficiality was frivolous and quite disgusting. 

Once ready, Ryuu began to make his way to the Washitsu that served as the reception room. On the way he saw the gardener, Kojuro-san, working. Ryuu stopped and gave a quick, slight bow with his head. He then said “Fine day to be alive. Is it not Kojuro-san?” and continued on. Ryuu did not want to bother the man too much while he was diligently working. He finally entered the reception room. There Chiyo was ready and alert. She bowed, and Ryuu gave a slight bow as well. She had taken care of Ryuu for years now, and was the closest person to being a mother figure for Ryuu. There was much that Ryuu was ultimately in debt to. Not just to her, but all the servants of the Mitsumine played a part in bringing up Ryuu. For that, Ryuu was grateful, and he would never forget. 

Ryuu walked to his mat and sat in seiza position. He then picked up a brush and some parchment and began writing. [i]“My dearest Uncle, I am considering having a bit of a celebration. Nothing too flashy, a small feast would do. We would extend our invitation to everyone, including villagers. The feast would take place in the outer courtyard where I will be among them, give a small speech and interact freely. We would also offer a small offering to the gods and the spirits that protect the Mitsumine. But, also send a special invitation to the vassal lords of the clan. These lords would be entertained inside as to not offend them. After all, they would likely be offended to be grouped with the villagers. Then after a little bit in the feast, I would finally enter and join these lords for a more intimate meeting and see what they are like. The reasoning is fivefold. First, this celebration would help solidify my legitimacy in the eyes of the people. Two, the people will be fed good food just in time for the busy planting season. Three, the gods will hopefully be appeased. Four, I will know who among the vassal lords truly look down upon me for they will likely reject the personal invitation of their Daimyo. Therefore, I will know who are my enemies in this nation, and consider my powers as weak. Finally, I will be able to talk to the lords who do come and see what each of them are like and what the situations are like in each of their respective holdings. I seek your advice on this and would like your thoughts. I am sure that you worry about safety, but if needed, I am willing to spend some of the family coffers on the training and hiring of more guards for the manse.”[/i] Ryu folded the paper closed once he finished writing.

Ryuu then looked up at Chiyo and said “Would you deliver this to my dear Uncle? Oh and send the first person who seeks an audience with me in as well, please.” He then put back his writing materials in their place and settled down. Today was going to be a long day, but Ryuu was looking forward to it. After all, many people struggled for decades just for Ryuu to do what he was about to do now, lead the clan.