Consulting the Heavens (D2, EE)

[Jihen]

“It’s not flattery. It’s ‘the beginning of wisdom’. Kanehime-sama is undoubtedly much farther down the path of wisdom than someone like me. It’s possible that he is beyond the stage of appreciation.” He replied with a slight nod of his head.

“Or it is possible he just has better sense than to say it out loud… A very real possibility.”

[Seppun Sadako]

Sadako fairly snorts a laugh.

"He's a good samurai," she says, "and a good shugenja. Unfailing in his work and diligent. There are worse, by far."

She sighs. "It will still not be easy, not for any of us."

[Jihen]

“It is not easy on the metal as it is pounded into steel. But imperfections are persistent little things.”

He smiled, “On the other end of these things you will be stronger, sharper, and know who your true friends are. ‘Friendship is truly tested when it is time to share the burden.’ I stand ready to carry whatever burden you wish to share.”

He smiles warmly, “Just make sure my satchel only has a single strap.”

[Seppun Sadako]

Sadako shakes her head again.

"I'll not keep you further, Jihen-san," she says. "I know you are busy."

[Jihen]

Jihen bows deeply to the Lady Seppun.

“You have been kind to speak to one such as me. It lightened my day to see you smile… even briefly. I will take that image with me to inspire me as I complete my task.”

He then bows to the guards not far away, before bidding farewell to Sadako.

“Should you require my presence… do not hesitate to summon me at your pleasure. Good night Lady Seppun.”

[Seppun Sadako]

"Good night, Jihen-san," Sadako replies, nodding her head.

Then she and her bodyguards make their /exit.

[Jihen]

Jihen allowed the daimyo and her guards to head far enough along their way that he wouldn’t have to awkwardly pass them on his way back towards the city.

Her words filled him with thoughts… thoughts that would require contemplating later.

But for now he had other things to accomplish… and it was always best to focus on one thing at a time.

/scene

(OOC: Thanks as always!)