An Old Man's Deceit

To his left, Motoyasu coughed uncomfortably, interrupting. "I don't disagree with anything you've said, Great Elders, but Miura is not the type of Daimyo you can control through flattery."

They blinked owlishly in response to the words that were clearly quite awkward for him to deliver. "Well, that makes things easier then. Frankly, I'm rather cold. Can you get the fire going a little better?"

"It will grow soon enough. A little patience, and it'll soon burn hot enough to warm all of us. Now, if you would allow me to speak, I'll explain my reason for gathering you." There was an edge to his words that strove for a middle ground between them. Whilst he did not intend on being tyrannical like Imagawa and forcing them to become dogs, nor would allow them to push him around to the same end.

A slight nod met his words, and they ceased their complaints.