She wept for these samurai and for all the people of the Sunrise Land.
The samurai cheered until they were hoarse, shouting the old battle cry, “Muratomo-o!” over and over again. The other pursues the Mongols under the tarkhan, Arghun, now lurking in Echizen province and threatening the capital. Now he addressed his clansmen and allies: “We have already sent out two armies, one to the land of Oshu to punish Yerubutsu for killing my brother Yukio against my wishes. You and all others at the capital who had a hand in this decision to surrender will be sent into honourable retirement.” Hideyori waved away the stout men in their subtly shaded robes. “Of course, I shall respectfully point out to His Imperial Majesty that you are not fit to hold the ranks and offices you now enjoy. See something of the country you were so eager to give away to Kublai Khan.” Again he paused, while the courtiers stared at him, appalled. After a pause Hideyori added, “On foot.”Ī howl of anguish went up from the noblemen and a shout of laughter from the samurai. Therefore, I merely sentence you to return to the capital.” The powdered faces brightened with relief.
“As for you officials of the Court,” he said, “you are also guilty of trying to surrender your country to the Mongols, but I will assume that you acted out of ignorance and cowardice, rather than, as Horigawa did, out of deliberate malevolence. The pale, moon-faced Heian Kyo aristocrats who had come with the embassy cowered as Hideyori’s dark gaze turned next towards them. Hideyori motioned to the guards, and Horigawa was led from the hall. “Do not stain your sword, Munetoki-san,” Taniko called from behind her screen. Without turning, Hideyori held out his hand in a restraining gesture. Horigawa thrust his head forward like a striking snake. Why am I not more delighted? Why, instead of joy, do I feel only this sad emptiness? Because his death will not bring my lost loved ones back. Taniko thought, it is more appropriate than you realize, Hideyori.
0 kommentar(er)
