Kyuden Shika

Not wanting to risk things, and really not being set up to do it, Nesshin skips the play in favor of continuing his cleaning work.

There is blood upon the broom at this point.

Still giving company to the Shika, Bai is still in the Temple.

Nesshin, still sweeping, looks over and says "You know you don't have to stay with me. I appreciate the company, of course, but I don't think you've been assigned to such."

"Who would testify that you are going to be a great magistrate in the offices of the Shika." The Kaito pouted. "Besides it is my duty as Shrine maiden to aid in the keeping of the shrines and the temples."

"You're sure you wouldn't rather be out and about?" Nesshin asks. "I mean, we both know me pretty well at this point, and I'm sure there are any number of others who would love to make your acquaintance or keep you company."

His tone as he continues cleaning is somewhat resigned. He is not angry, certainly, and not with her--more toward self-pity, resist it though he may try to do.

Teenage life is hell.

The Kaito lowered her head sadden. "If they wanted my company they would have come, find me and sweep me away from here." The girl shrugged. "But here I am keeping company a close friend who has shown me courtesy and showed me how dutiful he is."

Dammit, I keep making her sad, Nesshin thinks. Why do I keep doing that?

He keep sweeping, not really knowing what to say at this point.

She placed her hand on his shoulder. "It is a sacrifice I am willing to make... It is part of being a Phoenix. It is the life of sacrifices." She smiled. "You know... not many do such sacrifices that is how you know."

The sweeping slows, but it does not stop.

Nesshin bows his head, hiding his face.

His shoulders shake.

The Kaito hugged the busy Shika stopping his sweeping. It may have been improper but the girl felt the need to do such action. "Do not worry about this one Shika san."