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| Character | Mirumoto Tetsujin | |
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White orchid blossoms
Village nestles in valley
Shiju's Crane flies strong
Finally, an assignment that offers a chance at fame, however minor it might be. Perhaps if I do well here, my daimyo may see my worth, and assign me to more important clan matters. The first day has gone well, and the announced events for the remainder of the competition fall well within my talents, save only the hunting competition. I need only hope I do not face friend Ridachi in the courtier contest, or the Tsuruchi in the archery contest.
Arrogant archer
Fast bow strikes quickly, often
Dour Wasp makes no friends
I hope that Isawa Takako-san does well in the Go tournament, and that my feeble attempt at training will help her. She seems to be a worthy successor to Isawa Nichiren-sama, and I hope to be able to get to know her better. I was sorely tempted to do less than my best during our race, but I couldn't allow my effort to fall below my capabilities. However, I think that if I face her in the Go tournament, I will use brother Katai's brash style of play, and hope that the methodical style I showed her wins the day.
Kindness to others
Healing touch brings rest and peace
Worthy Isawa
I am almost embarrassed at the ease with which I defeated Hiruma Taro in our sumai match. I had almost forgotten the words of Sun Tao. "Flow with your opponent, and allow his efforts to run past you, over you, through you. Guide then your own strike to the center of his being." My words to him the evening before, claiming the event's victor was at the table with us, now haunt me as seeming to be prideful. I hope he was not shamed by my victory.
Boastful Crab bushi
Strength, endurance, and strong will
Running scout wins through
I am more than ever grateful to Kakita Kinuyo-sama, and her lessons while in the monastery. My strike on the post during the horsemanship competition surprised even me with its precision and perfection. I was pleased by Ikoma Midoka's words following our match, and was not later displeased to lose to her in the last event. She seems to be as kind as a Lion ever gets, and I would be proud to call her a friend.
Confident in skill
Lion scholar shows knowledge
Friendly and cheerful
I must now take my rest, but I shall write more after tomorrow's contests are finished, and send the letter when the festival has ended and I can tell you how I performed.
Tender words fail me
Time is a painful torture
Winter winds blow cold