[Day 5, Late Evening] There Is Always a Way To Water (Expecting)

[Jiyo Sora]

"Indeed. And I will not presume to make any choices for you."

[Seidou Satone]

“Can you tell me more of what you do, or have done, over the last five years?”

[Jiyo Sora]

"Well. When I'm not looking after the Emperor's kids- including killing anyone who even THINKS about doing them harm, something I've only had to do about three times- I help train recruits to the Jiyo family in polearm techniques, I convey concerns that reach me to the Emperor, and I have twice... dealt with people who were using the Emperor's name for their own advantage. They will hopefully learn from the experience."

[Seidou Satone]

"So it's pretty clear to say that you would be the arm that kills for the kami, but also would kill the kami themselves if they got too power hungry?"

[Jiyo Sora]

"I'd rather not kill anyone, to be honest. Dead people don't learn anything. But... essentially, yes. Up to a point."

[Seidou Satone]

"I don't think I would be a good fit for that occupation, truth be told. I am good at being a bodyguard but..."

She motions to herself

"I'm a bit...big...to sneak places. And.."

She pats her hammer

"This isn't quiet, or clean"

[Jiyo Sora]

"If you have the eyes and the will, then you have what is required. But don't worry, I'm not insulted if that path doesn't appeal to you."

A pause.

"And I strongly recommend looking into what Shiba has to offer, in any event."

[Seidou Satone]

"It is certainly something I will discuss with Haruyo. What does your clan think of spirit speakers?"

[Jiyo Sora]

"Well, the Emperor married one, for a start."

He half-smiled.

"Many Ayakashi joined Shiba, and they're a people who deal with spirits far more than most. I'm actualyl fairly atypical for one of the Emperor's servnts in that my own touch of the spirit realms..."

He gestured to his eye.

"... is of such a... finite character."

[Seidou Satone]

"I see. So, it would be safe to say that they are free to practice as they see fit?"

[Jiyo Sora]

"I haven't heard of any particular restrictions, although I imagine anything involving human sacrifice wouldn't go over terribly well."

[Seidou Satone]

Satone lets out a laugh.

"No, I imagine not. "

[Jiyo Sora]

"But with that little proviso... Shiba is very much open to the concerns of those who can speak to spirits."

[Seidou Satone]

"This is good to know. I was not sure how a god would take to people speaking with other gods. "

"I am still hesitant to follow anyone. Were it my choice, we could all just be our own, without need of anyone to rule over us. Have basic rules that all follow such as do not steal or murder or rape.. but perhaps that is impossible now. People have tasted what it means to follow and not have to make hard decisions, and to allow those above them to handle things they feel they cannot."

She spits on the ground.

"It makes us weak."

[Jiyo Sora]

"Well. My door is always open, Satone."

The half-smile was back.

"Have you spoken to Shinjo?"

[Seidou Satone]

"I have not, the only other I have spoken to is Nanzi, and his Doji seems..."

She struggles to find the word for a moment and then just gives in to her baser instinct.

"Useless."

[Jiyo Sora]

"Don't underestimate them."

But his tone was far from fond.

"Those who follow Doji would have reshaped our culture a lot more thoroughly than they already have if not for Yuzuru's influence. They are very, very dangerous. All those bland smiles and courtesies are their weapons and armor."

[Seidou Satone]

"It's the reshaping of culture I find useless. New words, customs, and what is right or wrong. It seems too much change, and many of it frivolous."

[Jiyo Sora]

"And yet, they are making great inroads. After all, they can produce things of great beauty, and beauty always draws its share of admirers."

[Seidou Satone]

"Sure, I agree, as a crafter myself. But it seems a bit self aggrandizing to tell everyone theirs words and customs are wrong. We can all appreciate art without being told how we can talk about it."