A Pup and a Prayer (D8, EA)

[Matsu Kogo]

Kogo nods. "That is true. To allow fear to steal inside one's heart is to die a little death each day. To cling to what one has for fear of loss is merely another variant." She looks at him, her spine straightening. "Each time I talk to you Shinjo-san, I feel I learn more and more. The Unicorn have much to offer the Empire. I hope we offer as much in return."

[Shinjo Kemuri]

"I have already learned many things, Matsu-sama." he smiled. "From you and others. In that regard, I think the miai has been successful."

[Matsu Kogo]

She nods, pleased. "I am glad Shinjo-san." She thinks a moment. "Do you think you would be comfortable calling me Kogo-san? It seems...odd after all our conversations to still be so formal."

[Shinjo Kemuri]

"If that's what you wish, Kogo-sama, I would be honored.." he nodded. "Of course, I expect you to call me Kemuri."

[Matsu Kogo]

She nods. "I would agreeable to this, Kemuri-san. And there is no need for -sama Kemuri-san. Kogo-san will do quite well."

[Shinjo Kemuri]

"Alright." he nodded. "Have you eaten today. Kogo-san?"

[Matsu Kogo]

She smiles. "I have, though I would not say no to anything you may have hidden away." She looks at him. "I think I have shared more meals with you than anyone outside my family. It is an interesting change."

[Shinjo Kemuri]

"More of the usual." he shrugged, revealing the rice balls. "I slept in and haven't had a chance to eat."

[Matsu Kogo]

Kogo nods. "I would gladly share one." She takes one from the pile and bows to him. "Itedakimasu." She bites in and chews. Then, thinks for a moment. "Why did you sleep in?"

[Shinjo Kemuri]

"I had much on my mind and had trouble sleeping." he answered. "I ended up at the pens searching for a goat."

[Matsu Kogo]

Kogo looks slightly confused. "I can imagine why you would have much on your mind. This miai is its own stressor. But why a goat?"

[Shinjo Kemuri]

He shrugged. "I don't know. It wasn't for me. I was restless regardless, until Lady Sun began to rise."

[Matsu Kogo]

Kogo's On is in place, but her mind is working. A goat? Who was it for? What was it for? "It sounds...like a restless night. Were you able to find the goat?"

[Shinjo Kemuri]

"Hai, that was simple enough." he nodded. "I'd still like to do some real hunting, though."

[Matsu Kogo]

Kogo nods, with vigor. "That seems like the best idea I have heard in days. Some real hunting, getting out and away from the tents and the people...You let me know if you decide to go."