"Ahem! Generous Golden Chieftain, there is no need, truly no need to be so enthusiastic..."
"Huh? This Sanda tiger warrior! Urk!..."
The river surged on, flowing into the Ezo Sea. The clear surface reflected golden light, and also reflected a towering tiger warrior, along with a merchant bent over beside an iron tower. Two Warrior Monks tried to step forward to guard him, but the tiger warrior knocked them to the ground with one punch and one kick.
"Buddha above! Stop, all of you stop!... Ahem!"
Morino Kiyoshi coughed as he struggled to take off the five catties of gold that had bent his neck. Somewhat awed, he lifted his head and looked at the tall, mighty Tiger Slave. That immense pressure brought him an instinctive unease and dread. Then he gave a bitter smile, shook his head, looked toward the "ferocious Sanda Great Chieftain," and sighed.
"Respected Golden Chieftain! I already understand the strength of your tribe. There is no need to show your might to me any further..."
"May the Main God bless us! Wajin great merchant, I have plenty of gold here, but I trade only with friends!... I know you merchants have lively minds, like foxes... But no matter how much power you have behind you in that 'Kyoto' of yours... here in this icy, snowbound north, you still have to follow my rules!"
"I understand... Buddha be witness! Golden Chieftain, we are friends now, true good friends! I respect you greatly. You are my finest trading partner!..."
"I hope so!"
Zuwaro's face was expressionless as he spoke a few words for form's sake. Then he waved a hand, had Tiger Slave withdraw, and looked once more toward that group of artisans.
"Continue the trade, my friend!..."
"Yes!..."
Very quickly, two more senior artisans came forward,