"And a pleasure, as well," Ryobu replies.

Suzume Ryobu steps forward.

"There is much sense in what Yasuki Masaki says. Her position is one the Sparrow are pleased to endorse."

She bows to the dais and gives a nod to Masaki.

~~~~~
Basic concurrence with Masaki succeeds at 31, https://sakkaku.org/r/17649

"That may be what has to be," Ryobu says. "Though I thank you for thinking seriously about the idea."

Ryobu will rise to add her voice to Masaki's. Her words, though correct, are uninspired and uninspiring, as if something else is on her mind.

~~~~~
Concurrence succeeds at 27, https://sakkaku.org/r/17519

Sorry, barely functioning. Hajime approves this treaty.

"The only marriage candidate we have yet to arrange is Suzume-ke no kashin Takayama Chigusa," Ryobu replies. "She is [Status 6] and a widow with children, so if there is some lord in need of heirs, she might be a good match for him."

"The Sparrow would be thankful for such kindness from their neighbors," Ryobu says, bowing deeply.

"We thank our friends among the Phoenix for this," Ryobu says. "It is an honor to stand in their company."

~~~~~
Concurrence succeeds at 52, https://sakkaku.org/r/17384

"Kitsune Aiko has stepped forward admirably in her brother's, ah, absence," Ryobu replies. "Without her, I think the Fox would do poorly, indeed."

"And you."

(and thank you!)

"It is greatly appreciated, Shiba-san," Ryobu says, bowing deeply.

"I will consult with those you name about those things you name," Ryobu says. "But between us, [2 units of] stone and [1 unit of] iron will meet our needs for them."

"A small amount of iron," Ryobu replies. "More lumber, stone, and tea.

"We have [3 units] of yams left," she adds, "and [4 units] of sake."

"Sake, I mean," Ryobu clarifies. "Although I am told that many spirits appreciate offerings of spirits, so perhaps that would be in the Phoenix interest, even if not to their need."

"I have not heard him say it," Ryobu replies. "But I have not been much in his company for some time, and I cannot believe that his attentions are at all divided."

"I can understand that," Ryobu replies. "But perhaps spirits might find some willing to partake in the cold north?"

"It is hard to treat with a man whose eyes follow things unseen," Ryobu says, "and whose words trail off to speak to ears nobody else can address."

Ryobu straightens.

"That would be a blessing, indeed," she says. "What would the Phoenix ask in return for such a blessing?"

"Rice is always dear in the Suzume Hills," Ryobu replies. "There are other ways in which they are sparing."

"They are a hearty food, Shiba-san," Ryobu says. "Hardy and resilient, filling the belly against cold nights. And they travel well, on land or on ship."

"Needs may be met," Ryobu says, "but things can be wanted that are not, perhaps, needed."

She smiles slightly.

"How do you feel about yams?"