Edo, the capital of Shimosa, was alive with the sounds of war. Along with the soldiers came along all sorts of merchants, thieves, and any other type of strange character you could find. Rumors of an invasion on the capital floated on the lips of all who knew no better. It was comforting to most, to see such a show of force in their city. A temporary camp had to be set up outside the city as housing to the troops, the Samurai were housed inside.

The Lord of the province, Ashikaga Norikatsu walked briskly along the embattlements that surrounded the training grounds. He meticulously inspected the formations of the samurai, making little adjustments where he saw mistakes and keeping his eye out for exemplary samurai. It was important, in war, to commend the men in order to keep their spirits high and to give other men a standard to attain. Supplies were being gathered as well and supply train was being organized. The formations looked impeccable and the men looked as if they were in high spirits and in good shape.

Once he was satisfied for the day he returned to the garden, to meditate and clear his head. As he sat there, in a tranquil state, his breathing controlled as in done during zazen, he felt a hand softly place itself on his shoulder. He came out of his meditation to see the face of his beautiful wife, her loving smile striking a chord in his heart. She was the daughter of Imagawa Yoshimoto, the Lord of Suruga and their marriage had been one of political alliance, an unexpected love had bloomed from the formal arrangement.

“I hope that I haven’t disturbed you Norikatsu, you seemed to be in deep thought.” She said, keeping her hand on his shoulder.

“Your face has only the power to soothe me, my snowflake” Norikatsu replied, using the name he had given her after the birth of his first son. “Is there something that you wanted?”

“I wanted to ask you if you could go watch Takauji, this is his first year learning how to fight using the sword. He could use some words of encouragement”

“Yes, of course. As soon as I have made some decisions concerning my men, they must be prepared soon.”


ORDERS:
~ The Samurai along with the troops outside the city are to begin intensive training, to be instructed by Norikatsu’ most distinguished Samurai.
~Scouts are to probe into bordering Hojo territories ordered to locate and survey the enemy forces, orders emphasize on speed.
~Supplies and horses are to be gathered and a supply train is to be constructed and ready to deploy with the forces. ~The Kobaya ships are to issued orders to inspect the coastline and report any troop movements, they are issued orders to take any cargo in route to enemy provinces.