Doji Miyuki  at 1:24 AM
Miyuki, who had been lost in thought, looked up at Bayushi-san.

"It is still to be determined if she has a champion.  But that is probably a very good question for Kakita-san."
Bayushi Katsumi  at 1:32 AM
"An obvious choice no doubt.  And one I suspected.  Had I need of a Champion I would look no further than Kakita-san."  She sighs softly.  "It seems then that you may have resolution to the situation at hand soon enough.. I wish I had answers to your questions Doji-san, but I unfortunately do not."

She looks up at the Doji from where she is, arms over the wall of the hotspring and regards her for a moment.  "If you'll excuse me I must retire.  I am expected for training before the sun rises, and would not want to disappoint by being sleepy."

Unlike the Daidoji who seemed so concerned about her modesty, Katsumi lifts herself from the hot springs.  She may be small, but she is lithe.  Two large bruises cover her abdomen and flank, with a bruise in the shape of a chain wraps around her right arm.  She grabs a towel and wraps herself in it before bowing to the Doji.

"I hope to speak with you again soon, it has always been an honor and a pleasure."
Doji Miyuki  at 1:36 AM
Her eyes widen ever so slightly to see Bayushi's nakedness.

"Good night, Bayushi-san."

"It was a pleasure to speak to you.  I do hope we get more chances to talk like this."

She bowed to her from where she was sitting.

She remained in place, sitting there at the edge of the hotspring.  Enjoying the warm water.
Bayushi Katsumi  at 1:37 AM
She turns and takes a step to get dressed.. before stopping and turning back.  "Are you in need of an escort Doji-san?  I am a yojimbo myself and it would be inappropriate of me not to offer to see you off safely if needed."
Shosuro Shirou  at 1:38 AM
The sound of whistling could be heard entering the hotsprings, as an unseen figure began to make all the proper preparations for getting into the spring. An outline of a figure appeared behind a sliding shoji door. The shadow mimicked their movements; a gentle tug of his obi in the right direction quickly caused the knot to fall apart and slide. Two arms began to pull the kimono off, and it fell to the ground with the faintest hint of silk  falling to the ground. Lastly... the figure removed something from their face, cradling it with the utmost care, before setting it aside. A hand reached forward, and pulled a thin long cloth, before beginning to wrap it around their head. The rest of the vestments were removed in short order, followed by a ritualized purification. That was when the whistling finally stopped, for it was a most respectful figure.

The rites complete, the shoji door slid open and revealed none other than Shosuro Shirou, wearing a black silk mask over his eyes; almost like a bandit or a raccoon. Around his waist was a small towel that preserved his modesty; a most wise choice, since he had not realized... the baths were not divided. He cleared his throat gently. "Evening, minna-san."
Doji Miyuki  at 1:43 AM
Miyuki looks up from her position, seated on the edge of the pool, robes pulled up to her hips, bare legs in the water.  She straightens and pulls her legs back under her in a hasty return to seiza.

"Oh!  Shosuro-san."  In a towel.

"How are you?"

She looks back at Bayushi-san.  "I'm fine.  Go ahead.  I know you are tired.   I can ask Shosuro-san to walk me home."
Bayushi Katsumi  at 1:44 AM
Katsumi bows again and walks towards the Shosuro, stopping to speak to him quietly before moving to her things, dressing and then leaving the hotsprings.
((Goodnight!  Thanks for the scene!))
Doji Miyuki  at 1:46 AM
(Thanks!)
Shosuro Shirou  at 1:52 AM
Naturally he would politely bow in greeting. There seemed... something odd. His clanmate had stepped out, so she must have been using the spring. But Doji-sama was just perched upon the edge, and had pulled herself out upon his arrival. He remembered her words and feelings about the water... he had not realized the extent of it. With his clanmate whispering into his ear, he nodded once with firmness, a soldier's nod of 'understood.' As she left, he strode to the edge of the water, but did not go in just yet. "Doji-sama." His tone held a questioning nature, and he tilted his head to the side. "Would you care to join me in the baths today?" His voice was gentle and warm, like the water he was currently not stepping into.
Doji Miyuki  at 1:58 AM
She was kneeling at the edge of the hot spring.  Still fully dressed.  Apparently, she had been sitting more casually, with just her calves and feet in the water.

"Oh, I have ... I have just been keeping the others company here."

"Like I said, I can't swim."

"Do you mind if I sit here while you are in the spring?   It is always nice to talk to you."
Shosuro Shirou  at 2:06 AM
"You would not have to worry about swimming; the water of a hot spring is not often very deep. And even if you sank, I am well trained to swim, even capable of holding my breath for a good amount of time." He was not dressed in clothes, but in scars from his years in service; there was a particularly long one that went from his right shoulder, across his sternum, and ended just at the bottom of his ribcage on the left side. He took a confident step forward, bare foot finding contact with the stony step. Another step forward, and before her the man began to descend into the water like Godzilla at the end of his movies. Each step forward, the water seemed to consume him more until the steps ran out, and the water was only to his chest, just shy of his pectorals. There was a shallow part, after all. "However, I would not mind if you simply wished to sit aside. I enjoy your company in any capacity, Doji-sama."

 Kenjutsu: TN5 or Medicine: TN10 to ascertain what the scar is from

Doji Miyuki  at 2:15 AM
She was watching him, rather intently.  Probably this was the part where she should have looked away.  But she was an artist after all, and there was a lot to look at.  Each scar must have a story behind it.

(Medicine 17 to study the long one).  A nodachi wound.  From a large samurai, or a mounted one perhaps.  Several years old.

"That is quite a scar.  Was that from when you were with Toturi-tenno?"

"I heard the spring was deep enough folks could dive in and disappear completely under the surface," she said, softly.

"There is a shallow place you are just standing?"

She looked at him curiously.

"I could tell the water was very nice and warm, when I had my legs in.  It does look relaxing."
Shosuro Shirou  at 2:32 AM
He brought a hand up, and gingerly began to trace upon the edge of the scar. From right to left, as he always did when remembering. It had been a few days since the memory of it had troubled him. "Hai; an Akodo Bushi left his mark upon the world before he rejoined his ancestors, Doji-sama." The hand gently fell into the water, noiselessly while he appeared lost in thought. "After Beiden's pass was blockaded, we were trapped in Lion lands north of it for many months, behind enemy lines with an enemy who could taste our sweet destruction at hand. Yet we survived, and poured through the pass in escape once the Imperial Edict was enforced upon the Lion ordering them to cease." A story, but not one performed with aplomb and enthusiasm. Merely of duty.

"I could see such a thing," his eyes glanced about the mostly clear water.  "But that is not here." He began to walk around, foot slowly thudding and feeling about while he did sink a few more inches. But to the Crow, it had gone up to his shoulders, yeah? The Scorpion was only a few key inches shorter, and it reached just past his chin in a spot where he determined it was deepest. "I would suggest you avoid this area; it may be too deep for your liking." The water splashed against his lower lip, and he moved forward, slowly, back to where he had stood. Once more he would entreat to her. "It is warm; I can feel the minerals soothing my muscles even as we speak, Doji-sama." This would be it though, no need to push the Crane any further.
Doji Miyuki  at 2:45 AM
Trapped in Lion lands.  She imagined how awful that must have been.  A dark memory to conjure here.

She watched him scout the spring, testing it.  She was about 5' 5".  Not the shortest woman here, but shorter than him.

It did look very relaxing.  And was she not a samurai?  Courageous.

Nothing could possibly go wrong with a Scorpion in deep water.

"Ah, you've convinced me.  Give me a moment."  She rises and disappears into the changing area.  He can hear the rustle of cloth.
She kept talking to him, though out of sight.  Once resolved, she seemed a little more relaxed.   Chatting away.  "It has been an interesting day.  The scouting party went out into the forest.  They found a Kenku, Zaicho-sama. He told them that the spirit, the blue eyed hunter causing all the trouble, is from Chikushudo. It is the great white wolf, Syanchi-o-kami."

"I haven't heard about the ship investigation, but our Daidoji-san went.  And she was here safe and sound after, though I haven't got the story of it yet."

She stepped back out, wrapped tightly in only a white towel.  Her hair still hung like a cloak around her, down past her hips.

She eased her way into the spring.  Close to where he was standing - which she knew marked the shallowest point.  She felt the bottom, stood, water coming up to the top of her shoulders.  But standing.  Stable.
Doji Miyuki  at 3:32 AM
They talk quietly, in the hot spring.


Eventually, they get back out of the water and dressed again.  He walks her back to the dormitory.

[[ And here is the rest of the spring. ]]

Serj  at 12:11 PM
As she entered the waters and he had finished being dazzled by the woman, he could finally find it within him to speak. "...A kenku?" He did not wish to sound doubtful, but they were a mythological and legendary being. "I do not imagine anyone has seen one in years. And we have one on our mysterious island." His voice was soft and full of wonder; was it at that, or the sight of the beautiful Crane in the waters with him?
Brenda  at 12:24 PM
She nods.

Standing very close, wrapped only in that towel.  Her heart was beating very fast.   Nervous, being in that water that would be over her head if she took a few steps more or slipped.  And because they were so close.  And so very nearly naked.

Trying very hard to speak as she would to any friend, since they were in public.

"A kenku, yes.  I can't even imagine meeting such a creature.  But they did.  And it helped them.  Invited them to its fire, and traded answers for song."  She smiles at that.  "Perhaps I should have gone.  But it was right to stay back, particularly when Kakita-san had to attend to another matter."

"And, apparently, one of the shugenja - Kitsune-san - did something wrong then.  And it drew the eye of the Wolf, Syanchi.  And they were attack by spirit wolves and had to flee.  The kenku protected them, so they could escape.  And Tsuruchi-san stayed to help the kenku."

"Apparently the kenku is friends with the monk who wears the oni mask.  That monk punished Kitsune-san in some way for it.  Very angry.  Otherwise, the monk has been such a gentle spirit.  He's the one who cares for all the orphaned children.  Provides them food and shelter.  He plays the flute very beautifully.  I've been trying to think how to help them.  Other than give them coin as I have.  To help cover their expenses."

"I ... I had an idea to see if one of the orphans had a bit of talent for art.  There are so many and they need training to make new lives for themselves.  I could train them at the temple to start.  I mean, only if the monks find that helpful.  But it seems like at least one must have the potential to be an artisan, and ... like an apprentice."
Serj  at 12:40 PM
They were close, but not too close. At least not physically. If only they had not been in a public place; a more private bath, then he would offer an arm for her to hold onto to make her feel much more secure. He stood firm, legs set slightly apart as the water ebbed and flowed around his strong body. "You would have won them all the answers, Miyuki, for not even a mythical being is as legendary as your singing." He spoke quietly, so his voice would dare not rise above the burbling of a small waterfall that was nearby, for one to sit under and be massaged by the water. He did not interrupt her story any further, only his eyes staring forward- for once, his eyes were visible. She would notice them to be a frosty blue color, very light.

So, a shugenja had earned the ire of a spirit. That troubled him greatly. The matters of the spiritual were in their hands, and he could not entreat them. So that their... ambassadors, were not making very good negotiations, troubled him. But the Doji was smart, sharp as a sword as always. "I have not met the monk you speak of. While it may be that he is angry at the shugenja, if you were willing to provide assistance to those that he holds in his charge, I am sure he would welcome it. The children should be one of the utmost priorities; their parents served honorably for the Empire, the least that can be done is that they are taken care of." His gaze was thoughtful. "My duties have been light; I am no yojimbo. I would be willing to assist you in that endeavor, if you would have me. I am not the greatest, but I can sing, and paint, and write poetry." At the words of an apprentice he would not help but smile. "You would take one under your wing, Miyuki?"
Brenda  at 12:55 PM
She definitely is looking at his eyes.  Blue, like hers.  He was so handsome.  It was interesting how his face changed with this new mask.  They would have blue-eyed children, she thought.  Pleased.

She smiles when he seems supportive of her idea about helping an orphan.  "I'd love your help.  You are quite talented with song, and painting, and poetry.  I am sure they might all enjoy some lessons.  And a good way to find one with the skills to be an artisan.  Much as I would love to train them all to be painters and poets, the island does not need that, and it is kinder to match a child with training suited to their skills, so they will thrive.  The village will need soldiers and carpenters.  Many things."

"Yes, an apprentice, but perhaps also ... like a ward."  He was smiling.  Good.  Some men might not have liked that.

But some thought strikes her.  A sudden frown.  Shugenja.  Yojimbos.

"Shirou-san, have you heard the news about Soshi-san?"
Serj  at 1:16 PM
Soldiers. That was true. The war was over, but now in this new place, the battlefield and the homefront were nearly one and the same. She seemed to be studying him most intently, and seemed pleased. Long lashes blinked in surprise but otherwise he did not seem to mind it at all. "It will be my pleasure; the arts are available for all to enjoy. The children will learn a skill to express their souls, a skill that will root them and bring them peace as adults, as I try with my own art. And perhaps in time, it will serve them." The idea of training children for war was an uncomfortable one, but many were likely of samurai schooling age by now. "I can teach them the basics of the blade; the dojo has bokken available." He could never reveal his school's techniques however, which anyone could understand. He took a deep breath. The man had just been fresh out of his gempukku when he had left his family, to join rapidly growing collective of ronin, an otokodate. A fate he would not have wished on others, but he had survived.

"You would bring much joy and care to the life of one who sorely needs it, Miyuki-san. That is most honorable, compassionate. Lady Shinjo would approve of your kindness and perhaps she will grant you blessing." His voice was still soft, admiring. Would he be willing to take on a child? He had never considered the idea before a short time ago. Maybe it would be most enjoyable.

His eyes flickered to life as she frowned, and his own mouth turned into one of concern. "Soshi Anzai-san? I have not yet. I am afraid I am quite distant with my clanmates, for they do not join me in my painting or other duties..." He moved slightly closer to her, scanning her face. What had happened? "Is he harmed?"
Brenda  at 1:26 PM
"I will look for the monk, confirm his permission, and then it is something we can work on together, for sure."

"I think he is hurt.  From all account.  Though I have not seen him myself.  He might be in the infirmary.  There is quite a story there, though I only understand about half of it.  But he was always very kind to me.  So I am worried."

"Something happened.  He did some shugenja work, some interaction with the kami.  And it went badly.  The creature in the woods - the Wolf spirit - we know it uses the kami, influences them, scouts through them.  So it knew.  And attacked him?  I have only heard he was badly hurt.  But ... something strange about it.  Forbidden to receive any healing from the kami also.  I don't know if that was just a punishment from his Clan for doing something reckless, or something more."

"At any rate, apparently he was out walking - visibly hurt.  And he ran into another shugenja - Yoritomo-san Kazane.  An old friend of my yojimbo's.  She comes and makes music with us, up on the cliff.  She has a parrot, who I painted."

"So, two people I like.  Who have both been very kind to me."

"And I have no idea quite what happened then."

"But Yoritomo-san healed him.  Using the kami.  As was forbidden."

"And there is argument if it was without his permission.  And now there is a duel between them.  Only they are both shugenja.  So, it's between their champions.  Or yojimbo.  But neither have yojimbo.  And, the best duelist here is surely my yojimbo, Kakita-san.  Who is an old friend of Yoritomo-san.  And so she has asked him to champion her.  And I expect it will happen.  Our Clan just insists the Mantis make it worth our while."

"But I don't know what the terms will be, and it will be Kakita-san likely.  Against ... whoever champions Soshi-san."
Serj  at 1:41 PM
The man should really leave his room more often. His face was markedly unchanged, but his eyes, they were his weakness that were oft hidden behind his mask, one could peer into his very soul and see his concern as he took in the information. So it was not just the Kitsune shugenja who had been attacked by the malificent spirits. They were indiscriminate in their assaults, which caused him only further worry. If the spirits were against them, what could a blade do? The blue eyes closed for a second. This was all such a complicated mess. The wilderness was their enemy, and the fighting within would surely only cause further splinters. "At the least; I am grateful Soshi-san is safe and healing well. I will wish to pay him a visit, should he accept my presence. I fear I have been too out of contact with them. But no longer." His arms rose from the water and folded across his bared chest, head shaking ever slightly to the side. "Hai, a duel between two champions is the wisest. Taryu-jiai is too destructive, too powerful. We would not permit even the promise of such a catastrophic loss."

He looked away from her distinctly when she mentioned dueling. "My cousin shares with me a common passion; I too, am a trained duelist." A fact he did not seem to enjoy. "It is a most lawful and artful display, that carries the greatest weight. I am free of attachment, unlike Bayushi-sama. If I were to be wounded and crippled, it would not cause her charge distress." However... that would mean he would face up against his own cousin, were he accepted.
Brenda  at 1:55 PM
She nods.

"I am sure the shugenja do not realize the consequences of their actions.  I am not sure Soshi-san is entirely safe.  It sounds like a bad injury, and if it cannot be healed normally?  I think my friend Iuchi-san might know more.  She is a healer.  And someone mentioned she was there.  I'm hoping to ask her."

"Shirou, it would not only mean he faced his cousin."

"It would mean ... not a day after we talked about ... " She reminds herself they are in public.  "When you showed me your sword."  Which, maybe sounded even more scandalous than what she was trying to say.

"That the Heavens would have a chance to ... do great harm to either of you ... who are both ... very important to me.  He is my yojimbo.  He holds my life.  Were he crippled or killed..."

She looks worried.  She has drifted very close indeed to him, to speak quietly of such intense thoughts.

"But I know ... you must do your duty.  No matter what."
Serj  at 7:59 AM
God he loved her voice. It flowed melodically, so silky and smooth. She loved to talk; he loved to listen. He was her sponge, freshly dried and squeezed before becoming awash with the sound of her voice, filling his very being with her. "Hopefully it does not last long; who knows how many shugenja could be hurt simply performing their duties," he mulled over the idea. What would they do? Naturally he could live his life normally but the blessings and rites from the Empire's holy men and women were sacred to all, and pleased the Fortunes and Kami alike.

He gazed upon her very seriously when she mentioned him facing his cousin, her yojimbo. His eyes twinkled merrily when she mentioned... showing her his sword, but otherwise his On was perfect. a bit confused though. Was she afraid of his curse manifesting, that he might slay his cousin? "It shall not be like that, Miyuki." He tried to assuage her fear; but it was a possibility. Underneath the water, as she approached him, he sought out her hand to give it a most firm squeeze, gazing at her with tenderness. "If he were unable to continue ever, in some way, I would take up in his stead." He didn't have to say "'I promise'; a samurai's word was their promise. But he did not doubt the Kakita would be fine. Or at least, that was what his heart hoped, for her sake.

"We must all do our duty, no matter what." Heavy duties they were indeed.
Brenda  at 8:54 AM
"I hope it does not happen often - this trouble for the shugenja.  But it speaks to the need for shugenja here to be well protected.  And may indeed impact all of us if it means healing is more difficult.  Kakita-san has offered to support another mission into the forest tomorrow night.  I do worry."

And then of course she looks very very worried.  Talking about the duel.   How the curse might use it to their sorrow.

When she felt his hand discover hers, under the surface of the water, she squeezed it gratefully.  Holding on tight.

"I am not sure your Clan would let you watch over me.  Even if you wanted to.  Though I would never doubt your intent to do all you could, to the extent you could.  They will likely realize you ought to be protecting the shugenja.  And even if you were entirely free, they have no reason to have you guard a Crane maiden.  But let us hope it doesn't come to that.  I worry, regardless, this duel will impact the relationship between our Clans.  That the Scorpion will be angry that the Crane became involved.  I will try to talk to Bayushi-san Yojiro.  Make sure we can still be as allied as we can be.  So our duties stay as aligned as they can be."

"But yes, duty first."

It was a heavy thought.  Duty might ask many things of them.  Of her.   On topics currently dear to her heart, such as marriage.

She gave his hand, under the water, another tight squeeze.  Standing very close now.
Serj  at 3:06 AM
Every day he was with her, he risked her. Touching, holding, kissing, being so close. They would be found out eventually, far sooner than he would expect. And Shirou would lose it all if that happened. His eyes closed once more behind the mask. But in his heart he was grateful; the small moments where she indulged him, allowed him to hold her hand and extract comfort and peace from her renewed his strength. A drug that kept him going. A drug he couldn't overdose on. "If I cannot harm them, at the very least I should be able to shield the shugenja from the wrath of the spirits with my body, and pull their attention to me." A temporary, if extremely dangerous solution to the shugenja problem. And not even a real solution; was he going to be able to block every spirit for every shugenja? Impossible. He could at the least protect the Soshi though. "My cousin is a smart man, from what I've gathered and known. He will return to you, unharmed; he is too fast to be caught by any spirit." He tried to sound lighthearted, to put some measure of peace in her soul. It was hard, in these not peaceful times, to do that. She worried so much, her compassion stretching far. The woman was a saint; he would have to try to be strong to not turn her into a martyr.

"They would not allow me to yojimbo for you," he admitted. "Not to the extent of Toshizo-san is performing. Nor over any one of my own. But I am a man of discretion; I can step between you and danger should it rear it's ugly head, Miyuki. You will not lose a single strand of your beautiful hair when I am within your presence." His tone was hushed; would he truly protect her over one of his own if the choice came? He could roll sincerity, but the answer would be the same: He would.
.
Duty was supposed to come first. Yet he was willing to forsake as much, for her. The thought caused him turmoil, but looking upon her beautiful eyes he knew it was the right decision for him to make and his heart was calmed. The bitter pill was much easier to swallow when the sugar was so sweet to down it with. She was so close, so exposed and vulnerable in just a towel while he was in his own. Her face ever drawing nearer, large blue eyes so soft and inviting. The man took a deep breath, closed his eyes...

And took an ever petite step backwards. The hardest step he'd ever taken on this island. The air exhaled sharply from his chest as he looked at her, eyes longing so desperately. "It cannot be said aloud; but three words, one for each squeeze." He prayed she would understand, and he squeezed her soft hand. Once. Twice. Thrice. His grip relaxed but did not let go, so she could take opportunity to pull away. She needed to be strong for them as well.
Brenda  at 6:44 AM
"I do not think spirits will attack anyone during the duel.  Only the judgment of heaven, as in any duel."

"I think the danger is when shugenja use their powers to touch the kami.  But you probably will have to ask Soshi-san what it was he tried to do that caused the kami to attack him, and for all to be forbidden from using the kami to heal him.  Probably just a caution.  That he did something that drew the eye of the great wolf spirit, who commands the kami.  So he was vulnerable.  And that same spirit could use kami to see him, to hunt him, to attack him.  Probably just a caution of that kind."

"I know you would not let harm come to me if you could prevent it.  But I will try to never put you in that position.  Much as I try to cause no risk or danger to Kakita-san by following his direction."

"In everything except you.  Where I simply do not tell him, and do not ask."

She saw him draw close enough to kiss her and then step back.

They were in public.  Someone could be watching.  He was wise.

She had no idea what would happen it they got caught.  Presumably it would be bad.   They would be separated surely.  Each sent home in disgrace?  They could not risk it.

Still she clung to his hand, trusting that was hidden.

Ignoring that standing close to him dressed only in a towel could raise its own questions.

She smiled as he squeezed her hand three times.  She was sure it meant I love you.  She squeezed him back three times more.

And then let go.  And stepped back.

As far as she would stand from any friend.  That was better.  More proper.

Another step.  Several steps.  As far as she would stand from any other man.

But there just wasn't that much room in the very shallow part.

She stepped back one more step, and suddenly her foot didn't quite find purchase in the ground, sloping downward beneath her.  She swayed, trying to find her balance

And slipped under the surface of the water.
Serj  at 1:57 AM
He hadn't even considered that, that the spirits might show up during the duel. A brief flicker of concern, but she put that fear down very quickly. She was extremely talented at doing that, and for a man who still had scars from a war not so long ago he was grateful that Miyuki had such a gift, that ever wondrous talent with words. "You are not a reckless woman, I know you would never seek danger. But all the same I will be vigilant over you, for this island has proved it is not truly safe. My heart could not bear it if anything happened to you, Miyuki." Ever quiet, words that were just for her and her alone.

Likely they would be dishonored, forbidden to ever contact each other. Certainly not permitted to marry one another, if they were caught being so scandalous. For who would dare entrust their family and alliance and any deals into two who dared to behave with such impropriety? How could they be trusted to be responsible with more important things, after all? Her soft and fair skin glistened beautifully with the thin sheen of water though; he was only so strong to not notice her alluring form. The spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak.

A sigh of relief, accompanied by a grateful, heartwarming smile at the woman. His On was so broken tonight, but it did not matter. She understood, and she in kind, loved him. His heart pounded in his chest with the ferocity of a drum, a hand rose up to try to still it upon his chest. Shirou had not felt this sensation with such strength before. Even as she stepped away, he locked eyes with her, staring deep into the windows of her soul. Even if they could not touch, they were connected. Nothing could take that away--
.
And then she was gone. A splish splash and she was taking a bath, but he was no fool. He knew she wasn't going to suddenly dive in, submerge herself. And she had retreated towards the deeper part of the water, likely due to him being so close to the edge. Miyuki had been trying to uphold the standards that they needed to obey and now she was in danger. Shirou was a man of his word; his body surged forward, pushing himself off the wall towards her, in as graceful a dive as could be done in this position. He too was submerged, eyes only able to stay open for a few precious cloudy seconds, but he saw her. An arm lashed out, grasping onto hers. His feet found purchase in the floor and he would yank the Doji gracelessly from the water into his chest, taking deep breaths as the water dripped around him, the peace of the bathhouse definitely disturbed now.

Athletics TN15: rolled 34

Brenda  at 2:06 AM
The water closed over her head, and she began to flail about.  Under the dark surface of the water, it was hard to tell what was up or down.  She had never been taught how to move in water, how to propel herself.

She felt a hand reach out, grab her arm, pull her up.  Strong.  Solid.  Shirou.

And then she was tight against his chest.  Holding on to him.  Arms tight around his neck.  Shaking.  Coughing and choking.

She had somehow managed to keep the towel on, tucked tight around her, but it was a little askew.  Not that he could see anything with her pressed so tight against him.

"Shirou," she whispered, when she finally caught her breath, and stopped coughing enough to speak, "I'm so sorry.  I'm so sorry."

Still hanging on to him.
Serj  at 2:30 AM
His heart pounded furiously; no longer due to love, or maybe perhaps it was. It had been gripped by an icy cold fear, the thought that maybe his curse would kick in and he would simply stand there and allow her to slip away into the depths of the bath. The thought horrified him more than anything, but it had not struck, not today. Another moment where she was safe from him. She could likely feel his heart even, so vigorous was it’s striking. His strong arms wrapped around her delicate form, chest rising and falling savagely from the sudden motion and adrenaline pumping through every vein, despite the moment now being over.

His own towel, also for everyone’s sake, had held on despite the rapid series of movements that would normally rip a towel away, but it had held fast. Like the Doji around his neck, coincidentally. “No no no, do not apologize. You are safe, Miyuki, just breathe.” A hand of his aimed to rise up and clear away any wet pearl coloured tresses that may have stuck to her face; long hair could get in the way at the most inconvenient times. One thing he could not help but note: she looked absolutely beautiful in distress like this, vulnerable and soft. He did not know if that was a terrible or great thought. “I’ve got you, Miyuki, you are safe,” he gently whispered into her ear, trying to calm her down and allow her to compose herself. But his grip would remain strong and fast, not allowing her to go until she was good and ready. And perhaps, not even then, for he was afraid to allow the water another chance to snap her up.
Brenda  at 2:41 AM
She could hear his heart thudding.  Hers was pounding also.  Still breathing very fast.  Holding on very tight.  He could feel her chest rising and falling against him.  All that wet hair hung very heavy, clinging to her, tilting her head back.

Listening to his soothing, reassuring words.

She had not felt beautiful in those moments.  She felt panicked and graceless, flailing and choking.   She was embarrassed.

But he did not seem to care.  She was safe.  He kept saying it.  She was safe.  He had her.  She could just breathe.

Slowly her breath steadied.

"You saved me again, Shirou."  He would never let anything bad happen to her.  She was sure of it.  "Thank you.  I'm sorry I scared you.  I love you so much."

Still clinging tight to him.

But hadn't she backed up in the first place because they were remembering how terrible it would be if they got caught?

Gradually she remembered to be afraid for her reputation half as much as she was afraid of the feeling of being lost in the water.

"Maybe ... maybe you can help me up to the edge."  She didn't want to try to stand again, or let go of him, if it meant trying to find her footing on that sloping floor of the hot spring.

Better to stand again on the land.  And, probably, wise to get her clothes back on.
Serj  at 3:03 AM
Their hearts beat fast, and together as one for a beautiful yet all too brief moment. The terror they shared was mutual, but in Shirou’s case at least it melted away rapidly, replaced by a sense of resolve and safety. She was fine, he had to tell himself. Granted, she was fine but more in the sense of, she was no longer choking or sputtering so harshly. They were out of the danger now, and yet he could not help but adjust his arms, the freer one placing itself underneath the bend of her legs, and Shirou would princess carry the Doji out of the water as he slowly made his way out of the bath with her. His forehead would lower and press against hers ever softly. “I love you too, Miyuki,” he murmured gently into her, a small smile beginning to pull at the edges of his lips. “Please do not apologize; it was merely an accident. It has passed, shh.” Was it the wisest move to shh the talkative Crane? Maybe, but she also was not at fault, no one was at fault.

His footsteps were firm as he hit the stairs; each raising and bending followed by a carefully placed foot before he dared to advance, until they were cleared of the water. Then, and only then, on solid and sure rock, would he lower the woman down so she could stand, but still helping her keep upright. Better than just dropping her off at the edge, eh?
Brenda  at 3:18 AM
He could feel how her clinging to him had gradually shifted from a desperate frightened grip to a softer - but no less clinging - pressure of a woman glad to be pressed against her love.   Her breathing was calmed, but still fairly rapid.

She seemed to weigh very little in his arms.  A delicate little bird of a woman.

He carried her - which felt very nice in fact - up on to the land.   One steady step at a time.  He took such good care of her!

She did not want to let go of him, even then standing on the sure and unmoving ground.  Out of the water.  But they were very visible now.  She had to let go and step back from him.  Very very carefully.

Which gave him one last very good view of her, standing back far enough that he could see her whole body.  The soaking wet towel hid nothing of her shape.

She looked in all directions, verifying that they were still alone.

It was colder, out of the warn water, out of his arms.  Wet skin drawing the chill of the air.  She gave a little shiver.
"Ah, I should get dressed.  And then maybe you can walk me back to the Crane dormitory."

She looked at him.  Smiled.  And then disappeared into the changing area.
Serj  at 3:35 AM
He could sense every change within her body; from the stiffened grip, to a softer grasp. The change in her breathing, from how harsh and sharp it had been, to the slightly slower but even tempo it had turned into. Pale blue eyes ever sweeping about; no one had seemed to see them for now. Everything was fine. If anyone asked, she had nearly drowned, and he had spared her from that. He would never grab someone in such an indecent way without cause. Aside from the docks, but that was totally different. How could he have resisted the most beautiful creature in the world serenading him?

And beautiful indeed she was. The towel, heavy with water, hugged her form deeply, tight as a wrap. Those eyes of his flitted over her form, taking in every detail, committing every sensual shape to memory for ever and ever. The cold air struck him, but he was so entranced by her that he did not even shudder the tiniest bit while the poor Crane began to chill. “Naturally, Doji-sama.” No more water, no more waterfall to burble away over their words. Shirou stood straight, eyes lingering upon her graceful form until it was behind a changing area, and he proceeded to go down the opposite way, to the men’s changing area. In short order he would emerge in his kimono of deepest black with red ivy embossed into it, and once more that ever familiar mask placed neatly upon his nose and tied, while he waited to escort the Crane Princess back to her dorm.
Brenda  at 3:45 AM
Surely anyone else in the world would have helped her, if they had been in the spring at the moment she slipped under the water.

Would they have carried her out so gently and tenderly?  Would she have clung to them?

She smiled.  Glad it had been him.  Glad of the excuse to be so close to him.  Fear driven out by something warmer.

When he said 'Doji-sama', she nodded.   Right.  Be careful.  Formal.

She took more time than seemed strictly necessary changing her clothes, trying to tidy herself, to look her best again.  He had finished well before her.

Eventually she came out.  Dryer.  Fully clothed.  Hair still very damp.

She stopped well short of him.  Definitely looking at him.

"Thank you for offering to walk me home, Shosuro-san."

She turned and started walking, trusting he would fall into pace beside her.

Voice pitched soft - a near whisper.  "When will I see you again?"  Hopeful.  Stealing glances at him, as they walked back.
Serj  at 4:19 AM
Now that it was over, that she was well out of danger, he could very well appreciate the moment they had together. Her body pressed to his, clinging tightly, shivering and shuddering. His eyes closed and gently shook the thought away; she was innocent, he could not imagine such things of her. What sort of man was he if he did? His hair was smoothed out behind him instead of it’s typical style that usually held from the dye, and he would easily fall into step with the woman, legs mostly on autopilot while he could focus on the more important things. Like her for instance. Through slitted eyes he was able to savor her beauty, composed and fully dressed, once more. Demure and ladylike, the picture of grace as even her dampened light hair was perfect, not a strand out of place as they walked.

Every glance she stole was met with him turning to look at her, a faint smile ever daring to burst forth from his lips every time. “It is my pleasure and honor to escort you back, Doji-sama. If it were to become my duty I would love nothing more to tread alongside your footsteps until we no longer are able.” His smile actually formed at her question; she had beaten him to the punch. “Soon; I promise you. Sooner rather than later.” They had walked and walked just glancing at each other and making idle chitchat that they were at the Crane dormitories faster than anticipated. A pause as he straightened into a most alert stand, his military days giving his posture a seasoned rigidity. “Will you have further need of me tonight, Doji-sama?”
Brenda  at 4:50 AM
She had smiled at his words.  That he would love to walk alongside her for all time.

"I'd like that too," she said simply.

She wished there was some excuse to linger longer that night.  Something she could ask of him.  But what could she say?  And this close to the dorm.  To the hopefully - but not guaranteed by to be - sleeping ears of her yojimbo and other Crane servants.

"I am well, Shososuro-san.  I should get some rest.  Have a good night.  Thank you for walking me back."

Ah, but she looked so reluctant.  Standing there.  Hesitating.  Not wanting to go again.

"It is always a pleasure.  Truly."

Still looking at him.  Wishing.

"Good night, Shosuro-san."

"I'll look forward to seeing you again, soon."
Serj  at 5:16 AM
The man would bow deeply, but not let his eyes off of her. Perhaps some danger would sneak upon her while he glanced away. No, he just could not allow to lose a single second of her beauty to simply be missed in his eyes. "Sleep well, Doji-sama," his voice came out solemn but warm as he straightened back up to his tall stand. He did not leave, but quietly enjoyed her presence for just a bit longer. Her melodic voice was, as ever, the music that unlocked his heart and drew him to her like a moth to the mightiest flame. Here in the dorms, he remembered the first poem he had recited to her. And he called it out to her once more; it's impact would not be as strong as the first time he had said it, but he still held a fondness for it in his heart.

Delicate snowflake
Your loveliness melts my heart
Brings end to winter
14 poetry roll


He would have to be the strong one this time. With a heart that was lightened by her very existence, but weighed down by having to leave her, he would turn and slip into nearby doors that he knew led to the Scorpion dormitories, getting one last wistful glance of her standing there, ever the epitomy of grace and elegance. And then he was gone.

Shosuro Shirou  at 4:09 AM
The man shook his masked face to clear away the cobwebs of dark thoughts that enshrouded his mind. Thoughts of war, thoughts of liars, thoughts of dragons  fire, and of things that would bite. Things that caused him to sleep with one eye open.

He smiled to himself as she stood, and made arrangements to join him. He was excited, not for the fact that he'd be able to see her in a new way, but because she had trusted him. For the most part when she talked he had listened to her melodic and memorable voice, allowing it to fill the expansive springs; luckily there were not many occupants at night. But her tales went from the normal commonplace chat to the bizarre, and he stood at them. A kenku? A mythical creature was here? And even more strangeness, the spirit that had chased the Mantis clan was a wolf spirit from Chikushudo. How did one even defeat that kind of thing? He was no holy man. Unfortunately he had also not gone on the Crab mission, and was preparing to apologize when...

He stood straight at attention when she returned, now prepared for the water. His eyes fell over her womanly form as she approached, beautiful and graceful as ever, once more reminiscent of the legends of Lady Doji walking into the sea. A moment passed, then another, and he realized two things. One, he was staring; staring was most impolite, and he broke the gaze before long, although he would return to look upon her face when she had entered the depths. Two, she had caught him so spell bound that he had forgotten for a moment to breath. He would deeply inhale to rectify the situation. You think he'd be used to it by now, but even now she could amaze.
.
All these words written and yet nothing said. So he would remark upon her approaching the shallow end towards him: "You look ever the vision of loveliness itself, Doji-sama. Mine eyes are blessed to have witnessed you today, and honored that you would join me." Through her trepidation and all!

The rest of the evening would be spent with quiet, calm discussion, before alas it was time to get dressed. He would ensure she reached her dormitory safe and sound, before returning to his own for much needed sleep.
[ Forgive me for passing out, I had 3/4 of this done. I wish I had survived so we could have done a lot more, thank you for the scene <3 ]