Kyuden Shika

"You need to understand... I've seen very devout samurai, people who honored the Fortunes in every breath- get killed in almost pointless scrums with bandits, often without a shred of dignity in their demise. So. What little I've seen of fate has indicated that it's cruel and capricious."

"The Shika would not have invited her here if they did not think she was worthy of joining a clan and I cannot think that all their bluster about love is just for show. You love and trust each other, I see no reason why they wouldn't match you two together. Unless Yuzu has interests in her as well as Bai at which point we can deal with him together, we'll invite Murato along too it will be fun."

"I'm more worried about what we haven't seen. The things we're aware of can be accounted for. But none of us are in a position to know exactly what the Deer are using to make their decisions."

Soyokaze frowned. "No, we don't and it's driving me mad. I would give anything for a traditional miai interview. With all their talk of love you would think they would ask us. They must be extremely confident in their abilities to read us."

"Hence my inability to relax in this final stretch..."

"Why are we drinking tea instead of sake?"

"Because I have had quite enough hangovers this week, mostly. Got drunk at the drinking contest, got drunk with Narumi-san the other night, went drinking with you..."

"Tomorrow night is going to be the real test for me. Do I spend all night at the temple or getting drunk. I honestly don't know." Despite his attempts to cheer up his friend Soyokaze's own fears and doubts were creeping out.

Raizo... grinned.

"Why not both?"

"Because if Bai found out I was getting drunk at the temple she would beat me to death with a broom. Seriously what am I going to do? For all your worries you at least can spend the night with Aimi secure in your love for each other, what do I do? I assume that Bai will want some space and be in worried prayer. It's not like her, I and Murato are going to sit around together."