00042

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- They were after you, - argued Toshinaka, in a neutral tone.
Sasuke gestured annoyed with one hand, as if he wouldn't think about it, then shrugged.
- Maybe - he repeated. - The maid came back in silence, prepare the cha and cups, poured, started leaving. - Thanks, Chieko san, - said Sasuke, softening the tone with difficulty. She bowed deeply, then disappeared. - I didn't ask for you for this reason, - said then with a grimace.
- I am at your disposal, uncle, - he bowed. What problems could have arisen in the last three days?
- You also have the role of champion, I know that you're aware of that.
- Yes.
- There is a request for tomorrow night. A courtier from the Ikoma family asks satisfaction ... a silly diatribe. Maybe I should be the one to have challenged them, but I thought that you might not like it, so I
avoided. Not that it is served.
Toshinaka frowned slightly, puzzled.
Like it?
- I am here to serve you, uncle, - he said, expressionless.
- Better. This courtier's champion, that Ikoma samurai that came here with you from the Academy, should not however be a problem for you. The request will not be perhaps for last blood. You can go now - Sasuke dismissed him,
staring out the window, his thoughts clearly focused elsewhere.
Toshinaka obeyed in silence.
Was there something to say? Was it not his duty, the duty of every samurai, obey their masters and that's it, being it about living, dieing or killing?
For the first time, even the bushido hadn't the answers he wanted for himself.