Kyuden Shika

Reporting to the temple as he has been bidden, Nesshin is given a rag and a bucket and instructions, and he begins cleaning...

Still on the temple contemplating Oubahime blinked at the sight of Nesshin on the temple grounds. "Anooo Shika sama..." the girl whispered to the young Deer.

Being addressed, Nesshin stops his rag-work and bows.

"Kaito-san," he says, and he smiles, "it's always a pleasure to see you! How can I help you today?"

"Anoo... I hope Inari has blessed you today." She bowed."Etoo... you should use the mop... not the rags"

"I've been blessed," Nesshin replies, "and I hope you've been, as well.

"But I'm confused; how'll the mop help with things that aren't the floor?"

"To reach the cobwebs behind the knots." The Kaito explained. "beside the knots that are up there... do...do you see them?"

Nesshin looks. "I do now," he says.

Then he asks "Why are you speaking so softly?"

"Anoo... I just feel small... don't worry Shika sama it will pass." The Kaito explained.

"What's got you down, Kaito-san?" Nesshin asks, concern clear in his voice. "Anything I can do to help?"

"I should have done better today" She shrank a bit. "I gave it my all but I was not really good"