The shogun's kingdom consisted of a castle, partially surrounded by a large forest which made a semi-circle around the back. The castle was an old one which had a medium size village that lay at the foot of the pathway, to the front of the castle.
The grey stone of the castle had moss and vines upon it, which gave the illusion that the castle was abandoned as they were moving further and further away from it towards their destination.
As they progressed on the journey, the shogun turned to the commander and asked, tell me about the blacksmith and his son.
Commander: The blacksmith though he isn't a wealthy man, it's known that he makes an honest living as a blacksmith. He has on numerous occasions, provided our military personnel with swords. He is also known to make kitchen knives and other things.
We have heard on account that he and his son is quite friendly with people from the village.
Shogun: So it's possible that we can give them financial compensation to walk away from this marriage?
Commander: Don't think so. An incident had happened some time ago with a wild tiger entering the village. The son whose name is Yoshuu, killed the tiger and didn't accept any money from the villagers.
Fabian: Sounds like a very foolish individual.
Shogun: I agree. "Taking advantage of a situation when the opportunity arises is what separates the boys from the men!"
Commander: Maybe it is his righteous ways that attracted the Ackermann family and the daughter to him.
Shogun: Everyone has a price! Once you find that out, then nothing else matters. Anyway enough about them, tell me about our new militant unit, sorcerer.
Fabian: Everything is going as expected. I have chosen 11 of your best individuals and have taught them the 'way of the phoenix!'
The shogun's eyes lit up and his expression changed, showing his sudden interest in the topic.
Shogun: So you are saying that they can defeat my enemies with fire?
Fabian: Whoever your enemies are, they would all be destroyed by fire.
Shogun: Wonderful. I long to see what they have learnt in a courtyard display.
Commander: We are coming up to their home now, said the commander.
Shogun: Good! It is time for me to get what I desire the most, the shogun jokes.
Fabian gave a slight distasteful expression as he looked at the fat shogun which went unnoticed by the carriage occupants.