Kyuden Shika

That gave Moshu a long pause. Eventually, he settled on:

"No. That said... she puts me on edge every time we talk. I do my best not to show it, but every word feels like I'm ever closer to an outbreak of violence. Not as in 'oh she'll simply lose her temper', no it's not like that. It's like... a feeling that we're both about to give in to some kind of violent urge which is itching at the back of our minds."

"There is a deep anger born of sadness in that one and I hope for her and the empire's sake she finds happiness but I think she wanted someone she cannot have by being here."

"Who knows? I vaguely remember a lot of talk about duty and being free to not be stuck in a gilded cage, but using duty to overcome grief sounds like something she'd do."

"Well regardless, I need to get better at keeping my mouth shut Neither you nor Unsei-sama would have ever been burdened with this knowledge and I am greatly embarrassed."

Tea time. Tea was good. And this would likely be one of the last times she'd set foot in this particular tea house. As much as Narumi had hated being landlocked in one place for so long, there had been small measures of comfort and respite, and the Blushing Maiden had been at the top of her very short list.
As such, the Otter steps in, lightly flexing hands which are beginning to sport wicked bruises along their backs. She spots her attacker and with a smirk offers a nod to him, should their eyes catch.

The glance found its mark. Thinking quickly, the Lion pocketed the note (for destruction later) and turned Soyokaze's attention to the Otter. Standing up and bowing to the Otter.

"Usogawa-san, it is good to see you. Would you care to join us for tea? My treat."

Soyokaze rose with the Kitsu and bowed. "Greetings Usogawa Narumi-sama, I hope Inari-no-kami has blessed you today."

At the invitation she makes her way over and returns the bows in kind. "Ohayo, Kitsu-san," her expression belies no harbour of ill will, "-and Asahina-san! A pleasure! I'd very much enjoy sharing tea with such kind samurai as yourselves, thank you."

Taking his seat again he asks "How does this day find you Narumi-sama?" Quickly noticing her hands he adds. "My word are your hands alright?"

The Kitsu at least had the decency to look away and cough at the Asahina's question.