[Day 10, Early Morning] An Army Marches on Its Stomach (Open)

[Shosuro Katsumi]

He bowed his head slightly to Akihime before answering the question, "I have been attempting to help Otomo-sama here get some of her ideas to fruition. I know little about the relative soil the ideas are being planted into, but the least I can do is ask people to water and care for them. Give them a little consideration, even with everything that's going on. I will admit, that's been easier with the other students and the servants than the sensei, but it is what it is."

[Shiba Jiro]

"Well, until we pass our gempukku, I get the impression that the sensei are broadly inclined to regard us children- and therefore to be treated as such."

[Otomo Akihime]

"Still, sensei must nurture the talents of their students, no? Child or not." Akihime places a finger on her chin.

[Shosuro Katsumi]

"I suspect Shiba-san likely has the reason behind some of the responses I've been getting to putting ideas out there, hai. It would be nice to feel more encouraged, nurture the ideas like Otomo-sama said. Still, it feels like there are other issues around stress and such for them. Perhaps we students could do something for them?"

[Otomo Akihime]

Akihime tilts her head slightly, "I've already asked if the Seppun Administration requires assistance from myself, however, they would rather have me focus on my studies."

[Shiba Jiro]

"If we knew what they required, we could perhaps bypass asking leave. If we were so inclined."

[Shosuro Katsumi]

"Perhaps so, Shiba-san. As for myself, I think I'll go make sure what else is up for the day so I can be more informed for the little 'court' they hold each day here."

Standing up, the elegant boy bowed deeply to both of them, "I wish you the best of the rest of your meal, Otomo-sama. And it was wonderful to see you again, Shiba-san. Hopefully when we meet again, circumstances shall be a little less disquieting."

[Shiba Jiro]

"That would be nice, wouldn't it?"

Jrio grinned.

"Carry the Fortunes, Shosuro-san."

[Otomo Akihime]

"Walk with the Tao, Shosuro...-kun." The Otomo chirps as she bows to the departing Scorpion.

"On. That. Note." She continues, "I'd be best be off as well."

Akihime then bows herself out.

[Shiba Jiro]

Jiro sat a moment longer, pondering the dynamics of that little exchange.

Then he grinned again.

Is that what's going on? My, my...

[/Scene]