Date: Wed, 29 Oct 2003 19:23:29 EST
From: DAG1064@aol.com
Subject: "Young Gaijin 04" 

Young Gaijin 04
By David
DAG1064@aol.com
Historical, m/b, m/t, t/b, oral, anal, and kink

Author's Notes: This story is fiction.  All characters and situations
depicted are not real.


Young Gaijin 04


	Josh woke up as he realized they had stopped.  He sat up and
listened for voices.  The voices he heard were calm and relaxed.  He pushed
up on the lid to the palaquin and stood up.  What he saw just took his
breath away.

	"Wow," he said as he took in the sight before him.

They were in a clearing with tall trees surrounding them on all sides.
Before him was a small pond, fed by a stream of water on one end and
leaving via a smaller stream on the other side.  What struck him was how
clear the water in the pond was.  He could hear the birds in the trees and
felt a soft breeze on his face.

	"Do you like this place?" Kotake asked Josh, snapping him out of
his trance.

Josh smiled.  "Yes.  It's beautiful."

	"Good.  Your father discovered this place many years ago when he
was much younger.  It is a part of our lands and he decided it should be
kept the way it is now for future generations of Kinzuburo to enjoy.  We
have more than enough time to stop and enjoy lunch here, and even swim if
you so choose," Kotake informed Josh.

Josh's eyes lit up.  He immediately stripped down, hopped out of the
palaquin, and raced for the pond.

	"Wait!" Kotake shouted, but it was too late.

Josh leaped out over the water and jumped in.  A moment later he came back
up, his face screwed up in a grimace.

	"THAT'S COLD!" he yelled as the samurai on the banks rolled about
in laughter.

Kotake just sighed.  "That's what I was going to tell you."

It didn't take long for Josh to get used to the water and he had a great
time, swimming around in the water.  A few of the samurai bravely joined
him and Josh calmed down a bit.  He even gave one of the samurai a swimming
lesson as Kotake helped Ricky get into the pond.  Before long everyone got
tired and got out.  The samurai who elected not to get in had the food
spread out on a couple of blankets spread out together and they had lunch.
Josh lay out in the sun after eating and relaxed for a bit, enjoying the
warm sun on his body.  He dozed for a bit and then turned over.  As he did,
he saw Ricky and Kotake back in the pond once more, Kotake trying to teach
Ricky how to swim.  He laughed quietly to himself as he thought of his own
experiences trying to swim in his father's pond on the farm back home in
England.  Josh sighed as he thought of his former life.  That was then and
this is now, he decided.  Having decided that, he let go of his former life
and embraced his new one.  Little did he know he was headed for great
things.

	They got underway once more an hour later.  Both boys were back in
the palaquin and enjoying the ride.  Josh was busy trying to teach Ricky
simple Japanese words and barely succeeding in the task.  Josh wondered if
there was a Japanese-English dictionary someplace and decided to ask Kotake
next chance he got.

	"This is not fun," Ricky huffed.

Josh sighed.  "It wasn't fun for me either, but I had to do it in order to
survive here.  You can do it, Ricky.  It just takes a bit of time and
patience is all."

The palaquin was set down with a thump and the top opened.  Kotake looked
in.

	"We have arrived at the inn we have registered to stay in for the
night.  The hot springs is a half-day journey from here.  So we shall lay
in a bit in the morning and be gone by midmorning," Kotake informed him as
Josh stepped out with Ricky behind him.

	"Good.  Is everything secure?" Josh asked.

	"Very secure.  We are still inside your Father's lands.  The hot
springs is on the border to his lands and that of Lord Kinsho, who is very
friendly to your father," Kotake informed Josh.

	"It's nice to have loyal friends," Josh smiled.

Kotake grinned.  "Yes it is.  Always nice to know who your friends are."

They entered the inn and were greeted by the owner.  Once the luggage was
settled, Josh decided on a bath before dinner.

	"I'll enjoy the dinner better after relaxing in the bath," Josh
said.

Kotake grinned.  "A good idea.  I'll join you."

They went down to the bath and took their time cleaning up.  Kotake washed
Ricky down while another boy washed Josh clean.  Josh smiled at the boy.

	"Thank you for your help," Josh said.

	"I was honored Lord," the boy bowed.

He left the room as Josh slipped into the hot tub and sighed as the hot
water enveloped him.  A moment later Ricky and Kotake slipped in with him.

	"This feels good," Josh sighed.

	"I've never taken so many baths before," Ricky complained.

Josh looked over at Ricky.  "There are a few reasons why we should take one
or two daily, Ricky.  One is that it is a way to keep healthy, two is that
it keeps us from smelling, and third is that it is a good thing to do.  I
didn't like it at first, but now I like them.  I like feeling nice and
clean."

Kotake nodded.  "That is right, Josh.  Very wise thinking.  When I was a
little boy I didn't like them either, but my father sat me on his knee and
explained to me why and I understood after that."

The boy who had bathed Josh returned with a clean mawashi and a kimono.  He
set them down and Josh got out of the tub and reached for a towel to dry
off with.  The boy helped him tie the mawashi on him and then held the
kimono out for Josh to get into.  A moment later Ricky and Kotake were
ready and they followed Josh down to the dining room area.  A few of the
samurai were there, scattered around the room eating their dinners.  They
rose and bowed to Josh as he walked in.

	"Good evening," Josh said, bowing back.

Another boy showed Josh to a table and he sat down.  A moment later his
dinner arrived and he dug in, enjoying the food. The evening entertainment
was provided by a troupe of actors on the road.  They put on a comedy skit
that left Josh and the others laughing.  The evening passed quickly and
soon it was getting late.  Ricky was starting to nod off.

Kotake smiled as the younger boy slowly fell asleep in his arms.  "I do
believe it's time for bed."

Josh grinned.  "I'm ready to go up myself."

Kotake set the night guard and then followed Josh up, carrying Ricky in his
arms.  Josh bid Kotake good night and went into his room to find the futon
already spread out.  He took off his kimono and slipped under the light
cotton sheet and went to sleep.  He hoped his father and Kimi were safe.





	They were not.  They had been attacked on the road and every man
was hard pressed to defend himself.  Kimi had put his skills to good use,
but they had been over come by the large attacking force and taken captive.
Kinzuburo, Kimi, Hiro, and several of the surviving samurai were led on a
three-day trek deep into the forest.  They came to a small village and led
into it.  They were put into a small hut and the door secured.  Hiro turned
to Kinzuburo.

	"So now what?" he asked.

Kinzuburo looked up at his old friend while he tended a small wound in his
left arm.

	"We wait for their master to show up," he said.  "Then we will know
who is behind the attack and why."

Kimi nodded and turned to the surviving samurai.  "Are any of you wounded?"

Three of them nodded and Kimi set about helping them.

	"Do any of you have any small knives on you?" Hiro asked, pulling a
small dagger out from under his leather forearm gauntlet.

A number of the men smiled and nodded.

	"Good.  Keep them hidden, don't give them any reason to search for
them," Hiro said.  "All we need is an opportunity to escape."

The remaining samurai nodded and scattered around the hut and sat on the
floor, putting on defeated looks on their faces.  Hiro nodded his approval.

	"Something you taught them, old friend?" Kinzuburo asked.

Hiro smiled.  "Something we discovered works really well.  If you recall
the skirmish with the troop of bandits six years ago, I had used that
tactic on them when I was captured with six of my men.  I thought of it and
it worked exceptionally well."

Kinzuburo smiled.  "I am glad you are here now, my friend.  Surely we shall
get through this in one piece."

The door was suddenly flung open and a man looked in and snarled at the
group and then stood aside.  Kinzuburo rose when the man entered.

	"It is good to see you again, my wayward son," Kinzuburo greeted
him.

	"I never was your son, you ungrateful dog!" the man snapped back.
"You disowned me, remember?  Threw me out into the cold and turned your
back on me!"

	"There was a reason why I disowned you, Juro.  Would you like to
know why?" Kinzuburo asked him calmly.

When Juro didn't answer, Kinzuburo pressed on.

	"It was because you resisted my teaching you the proper way to be
samurai.  You were never satisfied with what you were given.  You had to
have your own way.  You were too aggressive, too headstrong, and you
challenged me to the rights of Daimyo.  I had to answer that challenge and
I defeated you.  You took it badly instead of learning the lesson I was
trying to teach you.  You finally became too much and forced me to turn you
out.  That is why I disowned you and exiled you from my han.  It is obvious
from your actions you have not learned any thing in the ten years you have
been gone.  I had hoped you would have learned and come back.  Now you have
done this," Kinzuburo said.

Juro sneered.  "A fine speech, father.  It is you who brings shame upon the
Kinzuburo name, taking a gaijin child into the House of Kinzuburo!  How
dare you!  You have shamed us before the people!  I shall endeavor to
correct that immediately.  I will remove the stain on the Kinzuburo name
and retake the House back to where it should be!  Unfortunately during the
battle, the gaijin child shall be treacherous and slay you.  Many witnesses
shall inform the Shogun and then order the child to his death and name me
Lord of our lands, as it should have been in the first place.  Now I must
be off to plan my take over."

Kimi snarled and attacked before Kinzuburo could stop him.  Juro laughed
and knocked him down and sat on him, punching him a few times until Kimi
stopped moving.  Kinzuburo moved over to Kimi and checked him.  Kimi was
out cold, blood from his nose streaming down his face.

	"Oh dear, did I damage your little bedmate?" Juro smirked.  "I
shall keep him alive.  I like my bedmates frisky and kicking."

The door slammed as Kinzuburo worked to keep his temper from exploding.
Hiro moved past Kinzuburo and examined Kimi.

	"He will be fine, Lord.  Now what do we do?" Hiro asked.

Kinzuburo sat down at the back of the hut and assumed the Lotus position.
"We wait for opportunity, old friend.  Them we strike."

	Josh woke at first light and stretched.  He could hear the soft
even breathing of the boy he had pillowed with last night.  He had been
enjoyable, but Josh preferred Kinzuburo and Kimi.  He sighed and got up.
The boy stirred and woke up.

	"Good morning, Master.  Would you like a cup of tea?" he asked,
bowing.

Josh smiled.  "Yes please.  Then I shall dress and take my exercise in the
courtyard."

The boy bowed and rushed off.  Josh smiled as he watched the younger boy
scamper off.  The pleasant memory of riding the boy's ass came back to him
and he felt his cock get hard once more.  He closed his eyes and the images
came back.  It took just a few strokes for him to experience orgasm.  Josh
sighed after he came down and wiped himself off.  The boy returned a moment
later and offered Josh a cup of tea and then got Josh a fresh mawashi and
kimono to wear for his morning exercise.  Josh stood up and the boy tied
the mawashi on his expertly and then helped him into the kimono.  Josh
picked up his swords and slipped them into his belt.  Now he was ready for
the day.  He met Kotake on the stairs on the way down to the courtyard.

 	"Good morning, did you sleep well?" Josh asked.

Kotake smiled.  "Yes I did.  How about you, Lord?"

	"I feel really good this morning.  I am ready to learn something
new from you this morning," Josh stated.

	"Good.  I was coming up to inform you that a warrior monk has
stayed the night here.  I have asked him if he would be willing to teach
you defensive techniques against a spear and he has agreed," Kotake said.

Josh smiled.  "Very good.  Please make sure he is well paid."

	"Already done, my Lord.  Shall we go down?" Kotake grinned.

Josh grinned.  "Let's go."

	At the end of the hour Josh was soaked in sweat.  He had to admit
the warrior monk really knew his stuff.

	"Sir," Josh bowed to the man, "I am impressed with your skill and I
thank you for the lesson."

The man bowed back.  "You are quite skilled yourself, Lord.  I have heard
that a Lord Ito has been your teacher in the Way of the Sword.  A fine man,
a fine teacher, and a great samurai."

Josh smiled.  "Yes he is.  I am glad to know him."

	"Please forgive me but I must be on my way.  I have an obligation I
must keep," the man bowed once more.

	"Of course.  Please leave your name with Kotake and you will be
welcome anytime in our lands," Josh bowed.

The man bowed once more.  "You are too kind.  Thank you."

After he left Josh turned to Kotake.  "Let's partake of the hot spring,
shall we?"

Kotake smiled.  "Of course, Lord.  We shall start with a massage, then a
bath, and finally the soaking."

	"Sounds good to me," Josh smiled.

Kotake led the way to the massage rooms as one of the samurai followed.
What followed next was paradise in Josh's opinion.

	The runner from Juro found them at the hot springs two days later.
Samurai surrounded him as Josh read the letter and then passed it to
Kotake.  Kotake threw the letter down on the ground and pulled his fist
back to strike the runner but Josh stopped him.  He picked up the letter
and slipped in into the sleeve of his kimono.

	"Tell your master it will be a cold day in hell when he marches
into my lands and takes over my castle," Josh said coldly.

The messenger just snickered as he walked away.  Kotake turned to Josh.

	"We must go home immediately.  There is much to do," Kotake said.

Josh nodded.  "Please inform Lord Kinsho of our situation and convey my
regrets that I am unable to stay any longer.  Begin packing."

Kotake bowed and turned to the other men and relayed the orders.  He sat
down and wrote the message and had one of the boys at the inn deliver the
message.  Then he set about arranging the trip home.  It had been nearly an
hour when one of the samurai rushed into the room.

	"Sire! There is a force of samurai coming!" the man exclaimed.

Josh nodded and adjusted his swords and walked down to the front of the inn
with Kotake at his back.  He stood on the porch and watched, as the cloud
of dust grew closer.  Suddenly groups of armed and combat ready samurai
burst out from the rise in the road and stopped in front of the inn.  Josh
and his men made ready.  The arrivals immediately bowed as a man rode up on
his horse. He got off his horse and removed his helment.

	"Lord Kinsho, may I introduce Lord Josh," Kotake bowed as the man
approached Josh as everyone watched.

Josh bowed.  "I am honored to meet you at last.  I am thankful for your
hospitality.  I wish our meeting was under better circumstances."

Lord Kinsho bowed.  "I am honored to meet the son of Kinzuburo.  I too,
wish our meeting was under better circumstances.  I have come to offer my
assistance in this grave matter you face."

	"Lord Kinsho, I accept the offer of assistance.  I have no idea who
it is that I face or how large an army he has.  Is there a way I can get
home faster?" Josh asked.

The man smiled.  "We shall escort you to the landing a mile away where my
ship awaits us.  She is a fast ship.  I wisely traded many things to get
her and it was a very good trade for me.  She is of English construct,"
Kinsho said.

Josh smiled.  "I am familiar with English ships, Lord Kinsho."

	"Then let us hurry.  We cannot waste time," Kinsho said.

Josh turned and conferred with Kotake.  "We must leave our luggage behind
and take the bare necessities.  Can you arrange for storage?"

Kotake smiled.  "Already done."

	"Good.  Let's get going," Josh said.

Horses were quickly brought around and mounted.  At the signal from Lord
Kinsho, the force set off to the landing.  The battle for the Kinzuburo
lands was starting.





	Once on board, both Kinsho and Josh's samurai quickly raised the
sails and got the ship underway.  Josh nodded at his approval.  The ship
they were on was a newer fighting class, designed to move people from place
to place quickly.  Josh and Kotake were offered a cabin and they went in.
As Ricky began to explore the cabin, Josh turned to Kotake.

	"What can you tell me about Kinsho?" Josh asked.

Kotake sat down on a stool at the table and scratched his face.  "There is
much I can tell you, Lord.  Kinsho was born under the sign of the Snake.
He is in his mid thirties, having been friends with Kinzuburo since they
were young, and his skill with the sword is legendary.  I have witnessed
his fast draw many a time.  He can draw his sword, decapitate his enemy and
sheath his sword faster than you can blink.  His nickname is Snake because
he can strike like one.  I can tell you with out any doubt that you cannot
find any man more loyal to your father than him."

There was a burst of laughter from the door.

	"Telling stories again, Kotake?" Lord Kinsho's voice sounded in the
cabin.

Kotake smiled as he turned to face the man.  "Of course.  Josh wished to
know about you, so I told him the stories."

Kinsho laughed again.  "Kotake lies, young Master!  I really am a nice
guy."

All of them laughed as Kinsho sat down at the table.  Kinsho placed a
container of sake on the table and then took on a somber mood.

	"We have much to discuss.  As we speak, this dog that dares to
strike at Clan Kinzuburo is surely plotting his attack.  I have at the
moment groups of my samurai moving into your lands by stealth.  We need a
plan," he said as he poured the drink into three separate cups.

Josh reached for his and took a sip.  He reacted as the strong rice wine
hit his senses.  He gasped and coughed a few times.  He watched Kotake pick
up his and knock it back in one shot.  He followed Kotake's example and it
went down a bit better this time.  Josh leaned back in his chair and began
thinking.

	"This is not a sea battle this time," he said.

Kotake nodded.  "No, it will not be."

Josh sat up.  "How is the town laid out?"

The planning had begun in defense of Castle Kinzuburo.

	An hour later, someone knocked on the door.  Kotake went to answer
it and a samurai entered, holding a pigeon.

	"This arrived a moment ago my Lord," the man bowed, handing Kinsho
the bird.

Kinsho removed the small cylinder from the bird's leg and opened in and
extracted the message.  Josh looked on with interest as Kinsho read the
message.

	"There is a messenger from the Shogun Yamane waiting for you at
your castle," he informed Josh.

Josh knew from his studies how important the Shogun was.  "What would he
want with me?  Could this be a trick?"

Kinsho pulled at his beard.  "I do not believe so.  Let us see what the
message has to say first and then plan our next move from there."

Kinsho sent for the ship's captain next.

	"We shall be there at first light, thanks to the young Lord's gifts
of navigation tools.  Sailing at night is now very possible," the captain
said.

Kinsho smiled.  "Good.  Be ready to sail to Yedo at a moment's notice.
That is all."

The man bowed and left the cabin.  Josh sighed and drank down another cup
of the sake.  Kinsho reached out and took the empty cup.  "Forgive me young
Lord, but you need to have a clear head.  Perhaps a dinner topside in the
fresh air will clear your head some."

Josh nodded.  "Of course.  Thank you for your concern."

	They sat on the upper deck and enjoyed a dinner of lightly steamed
vegetables, fish, and tea.  The fresh air did do Josh some good and his
head cleared a bit.  He felt tired all of a sudden.  The day's events were
finally catching up to him.  He lay down on the deck after wrapping his
kimono around him and used his arm for a pillow.  As he fell asleep he
heard voices above him and then he knew no more.  The next thing he knew,
Kotake was shaking him awake.  Josh sat up in the bunk in the quarters they
had been assigned to.

	"How did I get down here?" Josh asked, halfway awake.

Kotake smiled.  "You conked out on the upper deck, Lord."

Josh's face turned red.  "I'm sorry."

	"No need to apologize.  Nobody was offended," Kotake said.  "We are
within range of the castle.  You need to get ready."

Josh nodded and followed Kotake out to the deck.  The sun was just coming
up over the horizon.  He stood for a moment and marveled at the changing
colors.

	"Beautiful, isn't it?" Kinsho's voice said from behind Josh.

Josh turned to see the man behind him.  "Yes it is."

	"Never be in a hurry.  Stop as often as you can to watch nature
unfold her glories before us all.  Take the time to watch life grow and
expand all around us," Kinsho nodded to Josh.

Josh bowed.  "Thank you for the lesson, sir."

Kinsho smiled as Kotake came up to them.  "You are welcome, Lord."

Josh turned and followed Kotake to the back of the upper deck.  He stripped
down and had a cold bath, which really woke him up fully.  After he dried
off Kotake tied a fresh mawashi on him and Josh dressed in a fresh kimono.
He slipped his swords in place and nodded.  Now he was ready.





	The door to the hut opened and Kinzuburo looked up.  Juro entered
and was promptly attacked by Kim once more, even though Kimi had his hands
tied tightly behind his back.  Juro laughed and swatted him back.

	"Oh, what spirit!  You will be a pleasure to break!  However, we
can't have you attacking everyone that comes in here, can we?" Juro smirked
as he motioned to a pair of men behind him.

They got hold of Kimi and held him down as Juro fastened a leather collar
around Kimi's neck and then chained him to the far corner of the hut and
then backed off.  Kimi tried to attack once more but the collar and chain
stopped him.  He crawled back into the corner snarling at Juro.

	"Maybe I shall keep you in the royal kennel like a dog and treat
you like one after I've bedded you a few times and then let the other dogs
mate with you," Juro suggested.

	"I'll die first!" Kimi snarled.

Juro smiled as he drew Tanto.  "That would be my pleasure, too.  Long after
you have outgrown your usefulness to me."

He turned to Kinzuburo as Kimi sat down.  "How are you this morning, dear
father?  Ready to sign everything over to me?"

Kinzuburo sat tall as he looked up at his former son.  "No."

A week's captivity had taken a bit of a toll on him but he gave no
indication of it.  Hiro's respect for his master rose even more.  Juro
turned to Hiro.

	"Old man, convince my father it would be in his best interests to
surrender Castle Kinzuburo to me," Juro snarled.

Hiro folder his arms across his chest and stared at the younger man.  "I
shall not."

	"Then I will take it by force," Juro snarled.  "Your head will
decorate my wall while my dear father shall serve me my sake and this
animal child please me in my bed."

Juro turned and stomped out as Kimi unloaded a stream of curses and
profanity at the man's back.  The door slammed and Kimi sank to the floor
in despair.

	"Do not despair, my son.  We shall escape this soon," Kinzuburo
soothed an angry Kimi.

Kimi sighed and slumped into the corner.  "May the gods guide Josh."

Hiro and the others nodded agreement.

	The ship eased into the dock as Josh stood on the upper deck.  He
could see an entire platoon of samurai turned out to greet Josh.  There
were no cheers, only a great silence over the square.  Kotake saw the court
official standing under a shade waiting for Josh to come off the ship.

	"Let's go," Josh said quietly.

Josh led the small group off the ship, consisiting of Lord Kinsho, Kotake,
two of the Kinzuburo samurai, two of the Kinsho samurai, and Ricky.  When
Josh reached the land, all the samurai bowed as one, including the court
official.  Josh returned the bow.  He walked over to the court official.

	"Please accept my apologies for not being here to receive you
properly," Josh said as he bowed to the man.

	"Your apologies are not needed, I was told of the circumstances of
your visit to Lord Kinsho's lands.  I am honored to meet you.  I am Lord
Onoshi," the man bowed.

	"I am Josh.  May I introduce Lord Kinsho, Lord Kotake, and my young
friend Ricky," Josh said.

Bows were exchanged and Josh invited the man to sit.

	"May I offer you a cup of tea?" Josh said politely.

Onoshi bowed.  "I would be honored."

Josh personally poured the tea and offered the cup to the man and then
asked the others.  Once the tea had been poured out and sipped, Onoshi
turned to look at the ship.

	"Is that of ah, what is the word, so sorry," Onoshi said.

	"English design?  Yes it is.  I am told it is a newer design from
my country.  It is supposed to be faster and easier to pilot.  It certainly
proved it on the trip down here," Josh said.  "I am pleased with it.  Lord
Kinsho has a fine ship."

Onoshi smiled.  "Ah, very good!"

Josh relaxed and then turned to the matter at hand.  "How can we be of
service to the Shogun Yamane?"

Onoshi bowed as he handed a letter to Josh.  Josh looked at the fine paper
and the seal on the paper.  It felt different from any paper he'd handled
before.

	"This is fine paper," he said.

	"Is the young Lord familiar with parchment?" Onoshi asked.

Josh smiled.  "Is that what it is called?  I thought this was different
from the paper I've handled before.  This is a much higher grade of paper."

Onoshi smiled.  "Only the best for the Shogun."

Josh smiled and bowed.  "Of course."

He carefully opened the letter, intending to keep it.

	"To Young Lord Josh, I formally invite you to my castle to discuss
the tragedy that has befallen you and to ask what I can do to assist you.
Your father was one of my greatest vassals and he has spoken of you highly.
I assure you your safety will be seen to while you are here.  I pray your
journey here will be free from harm.  Sincerely Lord Yamane," Josh read to
himself.

He turned and handed the letter to Kotake.  He took the letter and read it.
Josh sat for a moment and then called for paper and a pen.  A scribe
hurried up to Josh and asked what he wished to write.  Josh took the paper
and pen from the scribe and sat staring at the paper for a moment.  Kotake
set the letter in front of Josh.  Josh picked it up and handed it to
Onoshi.  Onoshi bowed.

	"You honor me by sharing this letter with me.  Thank you," he said
as he took it.

Suddenly Josh knew what he wanted to say.  He wrote it quickly and then
passed it to Kotake.  Kotake read it and nodded.  Josh then passed it to
Onoshi and the man read it.

	"This is very respectful.  He will be pleased," Onoshi said as he
handed it back.

Josh quickly sealed it and handed it to the man.  "Do you have a fast
runner?"

	"Yes, of course.  He is a trusted man.  Why do you ask?" Onoshi
said.

Josh bowed.  "I invite you to come aboard the ship and sail with us to
Yedo."

Onoshi bowed.  "I accept this great honor.  I shall be ready to go when the
time is right."

Josh turned to the ship's captain and quickly conferred.  "The ship's
captain says that we can sail within the hour.  The high tide is still
good."

	"Then let us make it so," Onoshi said.

As Onoshi turned to give instructions to the runner, Kotake nodded to Josh.
Josh instantly knew he had done the right thing.  Now all that remained was
the journey to Yedo.  Josh crossed his fingers and hoped he was doing the
right thing.

	The ship left right on the tide.  Josh stood at the rail and
watched the port recede in the distance.  Whatever happened now was up to
fate.  Josh felt like he was stepping into the unknown and he sighed.  He
turned around and headed for his cabin.  They had given the great cabin to
Onoshi and taken a smaller one.  Josh didn't mind at all.  Anything he
could do to get his father back he'd do.  Even if it meant pillowing with
the Shogun himself.  Josh hoped it wouldn't come down to that.  He turned
to see Onoshi staring at him.  Something about the man scared him.  He
decided to stay close to Kotake for the rest of the trip.



	Juro threw the letter down at Kinzuburo's feet.  "That gaijin child
has been summoned by the Shogun himself!  That bastard!  I had plans for
the gaijin child!  No matter.  I shall wait until he returns and then march
in and take back what is mine!"

Kinzuburo smiled.  "You cannot win.  This is escalating out of your hands,
Juro.  Surrender now and I will speak on your behalf to the Emperor."

Juro got into Kinzuburo's face.  "I'll slay him if he gets in my way!"

Kinzuburo knew without a doubt that the man he once knew as his son Juro
had descended into madness and was now lost, much like the barbarian priest
had.

	"You are not the man I knew as my son.  You are a kami, an evil
demon possessing the body.  Juro is truly dead," Kinzuburo said sadly.

Juro reared back and smashed his fist into Kinzuburo's face.  Kinzuburo
rocked with the punch, but didn't fall over or show any sign of pain while
Kimi went crazy in the corner, screaming obscenities at Juro.

	"Somebody silence the animal!" Juro screamed in anger.

Two of the men behind him jumped on Kimi while a third one stuffed cloth
into Kimi's mouth and tied it in place and tied his feet together as an
added precaution.  Juro grabbed Kimi by the jaw and lifted him off the
floor, drawing his Tanto and putting it at his throat.

	"Do not tempt me," Juro snarled as he shook Kimi hard and then
dropped him.

He spun on Kinzuburo.  "I suggest you tell that little animal to behave
himself."

He stomped out and slammed the door.  Kimi's chest was heaving from having
to breathe harder to get air back into his lungs.

	"You must calm yourself, son.  When the time is right, you may
punish our captors.  Until then, rest, save your strength," Kinzuburo
counseled.

Kimi nodded his head as he slumped into the corner.  He closed his eyes,
sighed once, and went to sleep.

	"Eeeeee!  Kimi will make a great warrior someday, my Lord!" Hiro
smiled.

Kinzuburo nodded.  "Yes.  I have watched him at his lessons with Ito and
his brother Josh.  Do not count Josh out just yet, old friend.  His karma
is causing event to happen.  We must watch and wait for the right time to
move."

Hiro nodded.  "I pity the poor fool."

Kinzuburo turned his head so that Hiro wouldn't see the tears in his eyes.
"I shall pray for his soul, that his karma will be better in his next
life."

	Josh came out on deck as the evening approached.  He walked up to
the helmsman and checked the headings and the current course.  They were
right on the mark.  At this pace they would see Yedo the day after
tomorrow.  That was good.  The helmsman nodded as Josh nodded his approval
of their progress.  Much of the day had been spent in laying battle plans.
Josh felt mentally tired.  He had laid what he thought were excellent
plans, using both Kinzuburo and Kinsho samurai.  Kotake and Lord Kinsho
both approved of Josh's plans.  Onoshi had spent most of the day in his
cabin.  Apparently the man wasn't used to sea travel.  Josh was kind of
relieved.  He didn't want the man around him at all.  Onoshi made him
nervous for some reason.  He kept his feelings about Onoshi to himself.
One of the things he decided was to ask the Shogun to keep Ricky with him
for safekeeping.  He didn't want Ricky to get hurt.  Having made that
decision made him feel better.  He sighed once more and took a turn around
the ship, breathing in the familiar sea air.  He watched the samurai
sitting around on the deck, preparing themselves for the landing at Yedo.
They wanted to look their best.  They bowed as Josh passed by.  Josh nodded
and smiled, tapping them on their shoulders.

	"Everything will work out fine, Lord.  Have faith," one of them
said.

Josh bowed.  "Thank you for your confidence."

Feeling a little bit better, he headed back to his cabin.



	The landing at Yedo went perfectly.  They were surprised to see the
Shogun himself at the docks.  Onoshi blinked.

	"He's never done that before," he whispered.  "You must be really
important for him to come out and greet you like this."

Josh turned to Kotake.  "Inspect everyone quickly.  Make sure there is
nothing out of place, and make sure everyone is on their best behavior."

Kotake hurried off.  Josh turned back to the docks as the ship slowly eased
in place and was tied up.  Josh watched the gangplank get moved into place.
He turned to Onoshi.

	"Would you kindly lead us off and escort us to the Shogun?" Josh
asked politely.

Onoshi bowed.  "I'd be honored to."

The man led Josh, Lord Kinsho, Kotake, and Ricky off the ship and up the
docks to the waiting shogun as the samurai followed.  The man rose as
Onoshi approached.

	"My Lord!" Onoshi called out.  "May I present Lord Josh, Lord
Kotake, Lord Kinsho and young friend Ricky."

Josh and the others bowed, as well as the samurai behind them.

	"Lord Josh, may I present the Shogun Yamane," he said.

Josh and Yamane bowed to each other.

	"I am honored to meet you Sire," Josh said.

	"I am honored to meet you," he said.

He smiled as he turned to Kotake and Kinsho.  "I am delighted to meet old
friends once more.  I hope you are well?"

	"We are, sire.  It is good to see you once more," Kotake said as he
bowed.

Yamane turned to Ricky.  "I am honored to meet you, young man."

Josh quickly translated as Ricky bowed like he had been taught.

	"I'm glad to be here," Ricky replied.

Josh turned and translated what Ricky had said.  Yamane smiled.

	"All of you must be tired and famished from such a long journey.
Please allow me to escort you back to my humble home," Yamane said.

Josh immediately liked him.  He was glad to have met him.  He felt his
fears roll off him.  Now he knew what he must do.  His mind was clear.
Yamane turned to look at Josh and nodded slightly.  He must have known what
Josh was feeling!  How could he know?  Josh puzzled it over on the ride to
the Shogun's castle.  He would find out in time.

	The dinner was splendid.  Yamane certainly knew how to entertain
his guests.  There were many toasts and much laughter, so much food and
Ricky did his level best to put a dent in the table much to Yamane's
amusement.

	"Young boys and their tummies," he laughed, raising his sake cup.

Ricky had blushed and giggled.  Yamane invited him up to sit on his lap and
Ricky did so.  Yamane fed Ricky from his plate as he continued to
entertain.  Finally Ricky had eaten his fill and lay back, patting his very
full tummy happily much to Yamane's amusement.  He tickled Ricky a bit and
the boy laughed.  Ricky sighed and slowly dropped off to sleep.  Yamane
looked down and smiled.

	"Now I tell you a truth, there is no better sight than a happy
child asleep with a full tummy.  That is something we must make sure
happens in every corner of our country.  This is the thing I strive for,"
Yamane said.

Sake cups were raised in agreement.

	"Forgive me friends, but it is late and young pups like this one
should be snuggled up in their beds.  Allow me the honor of escorting you
to your rooms and to carry this little one to his bed," he said as he
stood.

Josh stood and bowed.  "We are deeply honored by your gracious hospitality.
Thank you, Lord Yamane."

	"I am honored to have you here, Josh.  We will have much to discuss
tomorrow," Yamane said.

	"I look forward to our talks," Josh said.

Yamane smiled and shifted Ricky in his arms, turned, and led the way to the
guest rooms.

	Something woke Josh up.  He tried to turn over and find out what it
was but couldn't because of a heavy weight on his back.  He tried to speak
but discovered cloth stuffed in his mouth.  An evil chuckle sounded in his
ear.

	"I wanted you from the very moment I saw you.  I like pillowing
gaijin boys.  They please me, especially when they scream and struggle
underneath me when I stuff my thick pole inside of them.  It turns me on so
much.  I hope you won't disappoint me.  Struggle all you want.  I have you
completely at my mercy," Onoshi chuckled once more.

Josh felt a hand on his bare ass and he began to fight.  He listened to
Onoshi laugh low.  He felt something poke at his gate and then suddenly
something flashed by his head and the heavy weight on his back disappeared.
Josh managed to roll over just in time to see the figure kick Onoshi once
more.  Josh managed to climb over his bed and knock a candle stand over on
the floor.  The loud noise made the dark figure pause.  Kotake rushed into
the room with six samurai behind him seconds later with torches.  Josh
could see Yamane standing over Onoshi.

	"Kotake, see to your master.  The rest of you grab this animal,"
Yamane ordered.

Kotake rushed over to Josh.  "Are you all right?" he asked as he pulled the
cloth away from Josh's mouth.

Josh took a deep breath and sighed.  "I'm okay.  He didn't hurt me."

Yamane sighed.  "Thank the gods."

Onoshi laughed.  "You like them just as much as I do, you bastard."

Yamane looked down at Onoshi.  "Yes, I do like to pillow a boy.  But for
far different reasons than you.  I enjoy giving them pleasure.  I love to
teach a boy the Pleasures of the Pillow.  I teach them about their bodies,
how to enjoy them and what to do when they choose to pillow a girl they
fancy.  I have helped many discover pleasure.  But you seek to degrade
them, to dishonor them in a violent manner unfitting a samurai or a man.
There is no honor in forcing yourself on a boy who does not desire to
pillow.  I have had a few decline to pillow with me and I still maintain a
friendship with them and many of them have become my samurai.  I hereby
order you to be escorted to the dungeon and kept there until morning, at
which time you shall receive the punishment for your actions.  Guards, take
the animal away!"

Josh watched the four men drag a screaming Onoshi out the door.  Yamane
walked over to Josh and inspected his wrists.

	"Please forgive me for the assault upon your honor.  It was good
fortune I was passing by after retrieving a map of your father's lands for
a study and I saw him slip into your room.  I shall call the doctor and
have him tend to these wounds," he said.

Yamane turned to another man and he nodded and walked out of the room.
Yamane turned to the bed and pulled a sheet off it and wrapped it around
Josh and picked him up.

	"I shall take you to my bed for the rest of the night so that you
can sleep better," he said.

Josh sighed and laid his head on the man's shoulders.  "Thank you."

Yamane laid Josh down in his large bed as they waited for the doctor to
arrive.  He inspected the rope burns on Josh's wrists and spread a salve on
them and gave Josh a cup of calming tea.  Josh relaxed and then closed his
eyes.  Kotake turned to Yamane.

	"On behalf of my master, I think you for protecting his honor," he
said.

Yamane smiled.  "He is a special boy, that one.  I feel deep in my soul he
will do many great things for Japan."

Kotake looked down at Josh.  "I agree."





	Josh woke the next morning and blinked as he sat up.  He wondered
why he was in a strange room and then the events of last night came back to
him.  He got up and wobbled a bit and then found Yamane's private bathroom
and took care of business.  When he came out a boy was standing there. He
bowed.

	"I was sent up to escort you to the Great Hall.  May I help you
dress?" he asked.

Josh nodded.  "Yes please."

The boy helped Josh to dress while Josh sipped some tea.  By the time he
was fully dressed, he was feeling much better.  The tea had helped him
immensely.  Walking across the immense courtyard in the early morning air
cleared his head even more.  The men in the hall turned to see Josh
standing in the doorway.

	"Good morning, Lord Josh.  How do you feel?" the Shogun Yamane
asked as he approached Josh.

Josh smiled and bowed.  "Very well, Sire.  Thank you for your help last
night."

Yamane bowed.  "I sincerely apologize for last night's incident.  I
sincerely hope this doesn't damage our friendship."

	"It will not.  I have wanted to meet you for a long time ever since
my Father told me about you and the Shogun post.  You are everything he had
said, and more.  I must thank you for helping Clan Kinzuburo in our darkest
hour," Josh said.

Yamane grew somber and looked at Josh straight in his eyes.  "I have
pledged my support to your Clan because of the great work your Father has
done for the people of Japan.  These people who dare strike at your Clan
dares strike at all of Japan.  They must be stopped," Yamane said.  "Please
come.  We shall share our battle plans with you."

	"I have but one special request," Josh said.  "I ask that you keep
Ricky here safely.  I do not want harm to come to him if he were to come
back to castle Kinzuburo."

	"It is done.  I shall order a guard around the young lad.  I give
you my word on that," Yamane nodded.

As they moved to the table, a man appeared in the hall and came straight up
to Yamane.

	"My Lord!  A message from the Emperor!" the man informed him.

Yamane nodded.  "Invite the man into the hall here immediately!"

Josh smiled as Lord Ka appeared.  Josh stepped forward and bowed.

	"Lord Ka, it is so nice to see you once more.  I hope you are
well," Josh greeted the man.

Lord Ka smiled and returned the bow.  "When I heard that you were here and
that the Emperor wished to send a message, I volunteered for the task.  I
have heard what has befallen Clan Kinzuburo and wish to pledge my support
to you in your hour of need."

Josh got a bit choked up as he bowed.  "I am truly blessed by so many
friends.  Thank you for your support, Lord Ka.  You will always be welcome
at Clan Kinzuburo."

Lord Ka bowed.  "I have a letter for you from our Lord the Emperor of
Japan, and another letter for the Shogun Yamane."

He presented the letters and Josh sat down to read his.  It was an invite
to Kyoto to meet the Emperor.  Josh looked up as Yamane finished reading
his letter.

	"I have been invited to Kyoto," Josh announced.

	"I have been asked to escort you there," Yamane said.

	"How long by land?" Josh asked.

Kotake stood.  "A full day, Josh."

	"By sea?" Josh asked.

	"Half day," Kotake replied.

Josh nodded.  "We go by sea.  We leave at first light tomorrow.  Lord Ka, I
would be honored if you were to escort us there?"

Lord Ka immediately bowed.  "I would be honored."

And so it was that Josh went to the Emperor's court.

	As they docked early afternoon the next day, Josh was amazed to see
so many samurai turned out on the docks.  What amazed the travelers even
more was the presence of the Emperor himself.  Nobody could say anything
for a few minutes.  Josh turned to Lord Ka.

	"Does he do this often?" Josh asked.

	"No," the man said, clearly in shock.  "I have heard of one other
time."

	"Let's not keep him waiting," Josh said.

The group immediately walked down the plank and onto the docks.  Lord Ka
led the group and stopped before the Emperor.  After introductions were
made, they were invited to dine with the Emperor that evening.  Everyone
retired to their rooms until the evening hour.  Josh was on pins and
needles until the appointed hour.  Once he stepped into the hall, his
nerves disappeared and he was fine after that.  The dinner went smoothly,
Josh getting the chance to converse with the Emperor.  He left a good
impression on the people at the court.

	The next morning he stood at the end of the hall and waited for the
summons to enter.  When it came, Lord Ka was the one to lead him in.  The
Emperor did not waste time.  He conferred upon Josh the full title of Lord
and gave him the entire Kinzuburo fief.  Everyone was shocked, especially
Josh.

	"A threat has presented it's self to this young Lord.  Because of
his previous actions in defense of our lands, I have chosen to grant him
the title of Lord of Kinzuburo fief.  A threat to him or any Lord is a
threat to us all.  Therefore we must aid him.  Has anyone risen to assist
him?" The Emperor asked.

Yamane rose.  "I have, my Lord.  I, the Shogun Yamane, pledge my samurai to
aid this young Lord."

Lord Kinsho rose.  "I have pledged my samurai to help the Young Lord.  Even
as we speak, they stand ready."

The Emperor nodded.  "Go, with my blessings.  Protect our lands once more
from our enemies and those who seek to harm us."

As one, Josh, Yamane, Kinsho, and Kotake bowed as one.  They turned and
headed back to the harbor and home to the Kinzuburo lands.

	The door practically flew off the hinges as Juro raced in, foaming
at the mouth as he threw a letter onto the floor ant Kinzuburo's feet.  He
waved his arms and snarled, and then stomped out and slammed the door.
Kinzuburo leaned over the paper and read out loud to the others.

	"Master, the gaijin child has gone to the Emperor's castle after
receiving an invitation from the Emperor.  The child has supped with him
and then the next day was called down to be named Lord of Kinzuburo lands
and fief.  The Shogun Yamane and the Lord Kinsho have pledged their support
against you.  Our effort is doomed," he read.

Hiro began to laugh.  "Our time is near, just as you predicted."

Kinzuburo nodded.  "Prepare yourselves.  He will march very soon."

	It took two days of hard sailing to reach the Kinzuburo castle.
Josh breathed a sigh when he saw it was still intact.

	"Battle stations," Josh commanded.  "We shall use the plan."

Josh turned to see Kotake carrying a chest up to the table and set it down.
He opened it and lifted out parts of what appeared to be Samurai armor.

	"You father wore this into his first battle when he was your age
alongside his father, your Grandfather.  He would want you to wear it
today," Kotake said.

Josh nodded and looked at it carefully.  It was well preserved.  Josh
smiled.

	"It is perfect," he said.

It was carefully cleaned and made ready as final plans were laid, things
checked, and the villagers brought into the castle for safety.  Now the
waiting began.

	The message came in from the border two mornings later.  Josh
nodded as he listened to the message.  He rose from the table and looked at
all of the men present.

	"Now it begins.  I pray that we are victorious.  Lord Kotake, will
you help me get ready?" Josh asked.

Kotake rose.  "I shall."

Josh made his appearance and a great shout went up from samurai and the
villagers alike.  He took his position at the wall and then the attackers
swept into view.  Juro walked up to the front and loudly demanded that Josh
surrender the castle.

	"NEVER!" Josh shouted.

Juro flew into a rage and the battle began.  It was over in a matter of
hours.  Japan and the lands of Kinzuburo were safe once more.  Kotake was
the first to spot Kinzuburo.

	"Josh," he whispered.  "Your father and brother," he pointed.

Josh raced out of the castle and into the arms of his father and brother as
the people cheered.  Lord Kinzuburo had returned.





	It took a month to fully repair the damage the battle had caused,
but once that was done, the celebration got started.  Yamane returned for
the party much to Josh's joy.  He had planned on giving Yamane very special
thanks.  Josh very carefully prepared himself and waited for nightfall to
come.  When he saw Yamane head up to his room, he discretely followed at a
distance and then slipped into the room quietly.  He watched as the man
undressed for bed, stripping down naked.  He watched Yamane slip under the
silk sheets and lay back.  Josh silently approached the bed.  Yamane
suddenly turned to see Josh's skin glistening in the candlelight as Josh
let the kimono slip off his shoulders and slowly to the floor, revealing
more of his naked body to the man.

	"I wanted to give you a special reward," Josh said.

Yamane felt his heartbeat speed up as he held out his hand.  "Come here,
child.  Let us pillow tonight.  Let us leave the world outside the door and
enter another world, a world of pleasure together."

Josh slipped into the man's strong arms as they kissed, beginning a night
of pleasure.  Kinzuburo quietly closed the door as he smiled to himself.
Josh would find Yamane to be a very worthy bedmate tonight.

	Yamane laid Josh down on the bed and gently began to kiss him all
over his face.  Josh shivered and cried out in passion.  That turned the
man on even more and he doubled his efforts to please Josh more.  Josh got
even more active as he writhed beneath the man.  Yamane backed off for a
moment and quickly searched for cord to tie Josh to the bed with.  He
discovered four silk cords in a drawer along with a small pot of
lubricating oil.  He smiled once he realized he had been set up.  He
quickly tied Josh to the bed and began to slowly tantalize Josh's body with
soft touches of his fingertips.  Josh practically went wild.

	"Oh yes," he softly hissed into Yamane's ear.

Yamane felt the teen's hard pole come to life under his hand.  "Little Josh
is awake.  Good.  I want to pleasure him for a bit."

He looked down to watch the palm of his hand lightly stroke Josh's hard
erection as Josh writhed about on the bed.

	"Pleasure... best enjoyed with a friend... a lover... a father,"
Yamane sighed as he continued to stroke Josh.

Josh was beyond hearing.  He was experiencing the many colors and sounds of
pleasure deep inside of him.  He had known this place with his father, his
brother, and now Yamane.  As he continued to stroke Josh's penis with the
palm of his hand, he leaned over Josh and began to kiss him once more, the
soft gentle kisses, the light licks, the slow brushes of his lips against
the teen's skin only served to excite Josh and him more.  He moved down to
Josh's nipples and gently sucked them into his mouth.  Josh opened his
mouth to cry out but a soft sighing escaped.  He turned his body so that
his right nipple was pressed against Yamane's mouth.

	"O eager boy... mewls for pleasure... pleases me," Yamane
whispered, remembering a poem he once read somewhere.  "Wet pleasure
boy... gleaming in the moonlight... is that oil or sweet sweat?"

Josh sighed as Yamane let the right nipple slip away from his mouth and he
stopped his stroking to let Josh settle down a bit.  Yamane leaned over
Josh once more and this time he moved the tip of his tongue over the left
nipple causing Josh to cry out and arch his back upward.  Yamane pressed
him down and started the stroking once more.  Josh felt himself plunged
back into the realm of pleasure once more.  Yamane worked the left nipple
just like he had worked the right one.  Josh panted in ecstasy, wanting
more, but unable to vocalize his wants.  Yamane knew what the boy wanted.
He would get it in time.  He smiled as he kissed his way down the flat
tummy towards the teen's wand.  He let go of the hard flesh and then moved
his tongue around the base.  Josh tipped his head back and opened his mouth
wide in a soundless scream of pleasure.  Something deep inside of him knew
he was in the hands of a master of the Pillowing Arts.

	Yamane moved down between Josh's legs and licked at the teen's
testicles.  He gently ran a fingertip over the smooth hairless skin of his
balls.  Josh shivered in ecstasy.

	"Oh please," he whimpered.

Yamane pressed his face into the groin area and lapped at the young balls,
drawing them into his mouth and sucking on them gently.  He wanted to get
Josh so hot the boy would want to plant his teen root deep into him and
give him some of his life force.  Then Yamane would prepare Josh for his
own manly root.  He moved back up to the cock and slowly sucked it into his
mouth, bobbing up and down on it, getting Josh very hot.

	"Please... please... please!" Josh begged.

Yamane stopped sucking Josh and slowly untied him.

	"Please put your peace in my heaven," Yamane whispered to the
sexually excited teen as he applied a thin coat of the oil to the teen's
hard cock.

Yamane rolled onto his back as Josh scrambled up in between the man's legs.
Josh held himself as he slipped his cock inside the man.  He could feel the
head of his cock slowly open up Yamane's gate and then he was fully inside
the man.

	"Josh... feels so good... make love to me," Yamane sighed.

Josh slowly began to pump himself in and out of Yamane's gate.  He closed
his eyes and let himself get lost in the incredible feelings.  He felt his
body spiral out of control and he knew it wouldn't be long before the
moment of Clouds and the Rain would strike.  Then suddenly it was, and Josh
felt his body go way out of control as he had his orgasm deep inside of the
man.  He moaned and groaned, shivered and shook all the way through his
orgasm.  When his spirit and soul returned to his body, he found himself in
Yamane's arms, crying hard.  Yamane held Josh close to his chest and rocked
him until he calmed down and stopped crying.

	Josh looked up into the eyes of the Japanese man.  He reached up
and gently stroked his cheek.  He reached for the oil pot and presented it
to Yamane.

	"Please... may I have your peace in my heaven?" Josh asked, almost
pleading.

Yamane smiled as he took the pot from Josh.

	"I would be honored, young lover.  I must prepare you first," the
man whispered into the excited boy's ear.

Josh turned over and lay across Yamane's lap, exposing his gate to the man.
Yamane took great pleasure in stretching Josh and pleasuring him a bit
more.  Then he took Josh in his powerful arms, raised him and slowly
lowered him on his manhood.  He felt it open Josh up and slip inside the
teen's gate into Nirvana.  Both man and boy sighed as they felt the
feelings rise up from deep within them.  Once Yamane's manhood was seated
deeply inside Josh, Josh raised his feet and placed them on Yamane's knees
as the man took hold of his ass and raised him slightly.  Now he started
the lovemaking, driving himself into Josh time and time again until the
Rain and the Clouds swept over him and Josh.  Both teen and man ejaculated
at the same time, Yamane shooting his seed deep into Josh and Josh shooting
his seed out over on Yamane's legs.  Both of then lay down in their bed and
drifted off to sleep.

************************************************************************

Epilog

	Josh lived in peace with his father/lover, and his brother/lover.
Many was the brave deeds he did, and many was the people he helped.
Eventually Kinzuburo retired and named Josh and Kimi as joint Lords of his
lands.  The Kinzuburo fief prospered beyond everyone's expectations and
hopes.  Many more tales of their adventures are recorded and may yet be
told.

Peace and prosperity to all.

David