Of course, too many bouts would not be good either. They would take too long, and once the number of matches increased, accidents would inevitably become more likely.
Thus, it was decided that each side would send out six people for six matches. It was more or less understood that Buddhism would take three, while Taoism and Onmyodo would take the other three.
Abe Takashi proposed, "At Yasaka Shrine on East Mountain, Susanoo-no-Mikoto, famed in our country for his martial prowess, is enshrined.
"There is also a dueling ground specially meant for contests.
"Let us hold a friendly exchange there, with Susanoo-no-Mikoto as witness.
"It will both test the principles of our respective sides and give Kyoto's nobles an occasion to worship Susanoo-no-Mikoto.
"What does your side think?"
Shi Fan and Zhang Hongren exchanged a glance. "A guest follows the host's arrangements. Since you have made this proposal, we shall naturally comply."
Abe Takashi said, "Very well. In that case, we shall formally begin three days from now.
"Both sides may use this time to prepare in earnest."
After the agreement was made, Abe Takashi ordered people to escort everyone back to the University Bureau to rest.
He himself looked grimly at everyone present.
One man with a pair of small mustaches rose, walked to the center, and bowed. "My lord, I failed in my discipline and allowed Hashi to disrupt your plans."
This man was Uesugi Hashi's father, Uesugi Yosuke.
His strength was not lacking either. He possessed the power of a fourth-realm Human Immortal and was currently an official Onmyoji officer in the Onmyo Bureau.
The family behind him also held considerable influence.
Seeing him admit his mistake, Abe Takashi's expression eased somewhat. "What is done is done. There is no need to say more.
"I only hope