Grandmother's House - Curry College

“Chidori, watch Elder Atsuji’s actions very closely andreport to me all of his dealings,” Endo spoke in a whisper. “Ourcountry is on the dawn of a new era, and we cannot afford forAtsuji, or Kagemaru, to threaten the Ii clan and destroy one of thecornerstones of the Tokugawa house.”“Yes, my lord,” Chidori answered calmly.Although Chidori had served him well since she had takenher father’s place, Endo was unsure of whether she knew what wasat stake. “Chidori, although Kagemaru is a low ranking member, Iwant you to keep him distracted from this business of succession,until I and the other elders come to an accord. I do not care whatmethods you use. Just keep him from making more enemies. Itwould be a shame to lose a man of such dedication in a duel!”Taking her master’s words to heart, Chidori assured himthat she would not fail him and silently crept away. Endo, knowingthat he could depend on her, finally breathed easily for the first timethat day. Listening to the storm grow fiercer outside, Endo prayedthat he could preserve the unity of the clan.60 Curry College