6/26/12

“Yes my Lord. I intended to gather them up on the way back and sell them in the capital.” He explained. “Would one hundred and fifty gold coins buy them from you?” Lord Hiro asked. Prince Kazumi sat stunned by the offer. Recovering he began to smile. “It would put me out of the horse trading business.” He replied in mock shock. Lord Hiro smiled. “I need the horses and you need gold. It’s pretty simple. I’ll have Yukara make the arrangements to pickup all of your horses and pay you right away.” He said.

“I had expected to have to bribe the guards at the outpost. He refused it.” Prince Kazumi said. “I try my best to run an honest province. If everyone had to bribe the Lord’s men to come and visit the hot springs they would stop coming. Add that to the merchants not coming and they would stop trade here. Taxes are reasonable and fair. I’m sure you have seen the results.” Lord Hiro explained. “I am impressed by the loyalty of your men and people here.” Prince Kazumi said. “Thank you. A banquet is being held tonight for you. The cook is making her special fish for you.” Lord Hiro said. “Could I hire her away from you?” Prince Kazumi asked. “I doubt it. The Empress has tried to for years.” Lord Hiro laughed. “The Cook at the Inn by the winter castle claimed the Lords Cook was the only Cook better than her.” Prince Kazumi said. “Of course she would say that! The Cook here is her Mother!” Lord Hiro laughed.