"Russell, Sean - Initiate Brother 2 - Gatherer Of Clouds" - читать интересную книгу автора (Russell Sean)

ShontoТs source of information at court, Kitsu-sum, so I cannot
judge. But my father has an uncanny ability to weigh information on
the scale of truth. It is worth noting that he does not speak of
JakuТs present situation in absolute terms.Ф

УThis is what worries me, cousin. If Lord Shonto is right, then Jaku
KattaТs fall from favor and banishment are but a ploy to place the
Guard Commander within our circle of trust. But if Jaku has truly
fallen, and one with so many ambitions could certainly do so, then
Lord Shonto cannot hope to win the EmperorТs support to battle
the barbarians through Jaku. This situation is of great concern. It is
as you have said; so much depends on so little knowledge.Ф

УIf Jaku Katta engineered the attempt on my father at Denji Gorge
without the EmperorТs approval, as Lord Shonto suspects, then it is
possible that our handsome general is not in favor.Ф Nishima
pushed her table aside. УIt is all very confusing. Being sent north to
restore order to the canal is hardly a sign of disfavor.Ф

УBeing sent to Seh as its governor would not seem to indicate
disfavor either, Nishi-sum.Ф Kitsura held her ring up to the light,
examining it carefully. УIt is as Brother Shuyun says; at the g№ board
an opponentТs design does not need to be strong if you are unable
to see it.Ф

УI did not realize you discussed g№ with Brother Shuyun,Ф Nishima
said, her tone registering something close to disapproval.

УShuyun-sum has been kind enough to instruct me in the intricacies
of the boardЕ and to discuss matters of the spirit, also.Ф

The two women fell silent. A distant thunder rumbled, like a far-off
dragon. Rain beat on the gravel border of the garden outside.

УNishima-sum?Ф Kitsura said quietly. УWe must be absolutely
certain of Jaku KattaТs situation at court.Ф

Lady Nishima nodded. Yes, she thought, and I must know what this
man expects of me. She remembered the last thing she had said
to Jaku the night she had gone to his quartersЧthey would speak
in Seh. Now she did not know what they would say.

УI think I know how this can be done,Ф Kitsura said quietly, Уthough I
fear you will not approve.Ф

Sister Yasuko held the paper up and blew gently on the ink, careful
not to spread it. The dampness of the evening invaded her rooms
and she huddled close to the charcoal burner and her single lamp.
She blew again, careful not to spoil the fine brush work.