(D11, EA) The Topaz and the Chrysanthemum (Special Event)

[Asahina Soyokaze]

"This helps Yuzu avoid a potential disgrace.
This helps the Crane avoid a conflict with the Imperial's as they go into war.
This helps Reina avoid having to defeat someone she may end up married to.
This helps Murato which helps assure Bai's continued happiness.
This is the first thing I have I have done here that resembles a samurai's duty."

[Shiba Raizo]

"That's as may be. But. Always remember, the lady has her own mind in this, as in all things. And there's Duty and there's Duty. You will do as you must. But don't pretend that this matter is so simply resolved."

[Asahina Soyokaze]

"I know it isn't and my shame right now is total. I shouldn't have let it get this far and when I did I should have spoken to her about it. I thought this would happen quietly, that she would never need to know because I know she is hurt and disappointed by this and learning why this happened won't help that. I pray to Benten and Musubi that we can still be together but I must abide by Yuzu's demands now, no matter how much it makes me want to fall down. I can't stop hurting her and that is why I don't deserve her."

[Shiba Raizo]

For the first time in the conversation, Raizo lowered his voice.

"Horseshit."

He bowed to Reina, then turned his attention back to Soyokaze.

"Self-flagellation may be what turns your crank, but it has little to do with how you impact anyone else."

[Asahina Soyokaze]

"You have said she is like a sister to you so imagine she really were for a moment, who would you want to see her with?"

[Shiba Raizo]

"You."

A beat.

"Obviously. Who did I come to this thing to stand witness for? Who took on the task of crafting a wakizashi for the woman I love on essentially zero notice? Who crafted the first physical token of esteem I gave that same woman? So. Don't be silly. The Deer will decide as they decide. But until they do? This is a miai. All bets are off."

[Asahina Soyokaze]

"Will you tell her?" His face was calm and his voice was monotone but his eyes could not hide it, he was begging.

[Shiba Raizo]

"Of course. Just bear in mind what I've told you."

[Asahina Soyokaze]

"Of course. For now, I have work to do and our time here is short. I won't disappoint your love as well."

He offered a bow to the Shiba and another to Kakita Reina before turning the dais and bowing low to the judges and leaves the dojo.



/exit scene unless stopped.

[Shiba Raizo]

Raizo.... half-smiled as the Crane left.

It was not, on balance, a reassuring expression.

In fact, the ashigaru he served with would have run scampering for cover had they seen it.

Then he bowed to everyone else present and took his leave.

[/Exit Raizo]