In the Matsudaira camp, they had spent the entire morning - and early afternoon - training. But as the thunderstorm storm drew in, the commander had looked up at the dark, heavy clouds, and judged that then would be a good time for a break – he did not want the gunpowder to grow wet.
And so they had gathered within their tents, escaping the worst of the rain, as they sat exhausted, glad of the chance to be able to sit down and get something to eat.
Though, they had been made to remain armed, for training would resume once the rain had lessened – and many found themselves wishing that it never would.
Their commander was a serious man, and seemed to take personal offence whenever they gave something less than their maximum effort. He expected the best from them at all times, and drilled them ruthlessly.
