Kyuden Shika

Murato sat awaiting the arrival of his lunch date. He had some simple rice and pickled diced vegetables with a bit of sweet vinegar prepared. It was something reserved, but with a good pop of flavor. There was also some simple common tea as well. He had a simple expression that seemed to be enjoying the day, watching the rain out of an open doorway from the common room to the garden. His shamisen was also not far off, in case he decided to entertain.

Oubaihime noted the Lion and smiled. The Kaito walked over to the table and bowed. "Good afternoon Murato sama." She wore her usual clothes she didn't want her new ones to get dirty.

Rising at her approach, he bowed to her respectfully. "Oubaihime-sama, it is a pleasure to see you again. Please join me."

"I enjoyed our shopping trip yesterday, a great deal. I hope the rain of the day is not making things too uncomfortable?"

"Yes... it was fun." She nodded and took a seat. "I hope Inari bless is with this wonderfully looking food." The girl smiled.

"I hope for Inari's blessing as well. You look lovely today," he says, nodding as he sits across from her. He looks into her eyes for a few seconds, maybe searching for something, before continuing.

"So, as I said yesterday. I would like to get to know you, so I'll start with the most important first question in any relationship whether it is between friends, spouses, lovers, rivals, or enemies... would you like some tea?"

He smiles as he lifts the teapot to pour a bit for himself before offering it to her.

"I am not a spirit Kitsu sama." She giggled. "I may look like one but trust me I am a Ningen." The Kaito tilted her head analyzing the man and nodded. "Tea is aways welcomed to this one."

He pours a cup for her, then sets the pot down gently. "Now that the important part is out of the way, let's get on to the fun part," he says with a smile. "You spend so much time at the temple. It makes me happy when we get the chance to see each other there. I imagine that you enjoy being there as much as I do, but what else do you enjoy?"

"I like working with my hands. Blessed Ebisu no kami had granted me with such enjoyment. It is quite simple really. I like helping people out... I don't really... like pushing people into things that well... make them feel bad."

"That's great then, because I don't like being pushed into things that make me feel bad," he said playfully. "But I do enjoy spending time doing things that make me feel happy. I don't get many chances to help the living the same way I get to help spirits, but I understand that desire to help others."

"But we cannot only think of others. We must take care of ourselves too, so that we are ready to help others when they are in need. What is it that you do to care for yourself? To ease your stress from a long day's work?"

"I find confort in work you can say it is a hobby... I guess to pass time I sing... and sometimes go to the dojo and practice skills I rarely use." The Kaito sipped her tea and picked some of the rice and gingerly ate it.