Incensed (D8 LM Open)

[Doji Yoshino]

"Only a little something. Incense. I picked out every scent I could." She smiled happily. "I'm sure there will be some you like."

[Asahina Jorujo]

Jorujo smiles.

"How delightful!" he says. "Perhaps Ta--er, Doji-bugyo will help me select one."

[Doji Yoshino]

Yoshino's smile mysteriously grew. "I'm sure he would. When I mentioned your assistance and spiritual support his attitude toward me became warmer. Funny, ne?"

[Asahina Jorujo]

"He's like that sometimes," Jorujo says. "But he's a good man."

[Doji Yoshino]

She nods in agreement. "He had a message passed to Doji Utemaro-sama while I was there. I would have had no chance to see Doji-sama no matter how many days I visited, but he came immediately at the magistrate's message. Without Doji Utemaro-sama's favour Isawa-sama would not have come. So, your involvement did save me Asahina-sama." Yoshino's smile returned. "It just took a few extra steps."

[Asahina Jorujo]

"Well, what's the adage? 'A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,' right?"

Jorujo sighs a bit.

"Still, things seem to have worked out. And that's to the good, Fortunes be praised."

[Doji Yoshino]

"Partly." Yoshino comments mysteriously. "Fortunes be praised for this one trouble being dealt with, but there will be more."

She turns her attention to the scrolls Jorujo had been examining.

"When this competition is over I intend to research more of my situation. I never heard about it from my parents so I do not think we knew or that there was much in the way of research into it. I will rectify that."

[Asahina Jorujo]

"It seems a worthy goal," Jorujo replies. "And one that will likely be of use to more than you. Others have...similar afflictions."

[Doji Yoshino]

"Do you know much about the..." She tried to remember the name Kojiro had said. "The Institute that Isawa Kojiro-sama works for? It's a Phoenix research group...?"

[Asahina Jorujo]

Jorujo sighs heavily.

"I have some information about it, yes," he admits. "Let us say that I wholeheartedly endorse my lord's previous actions with regard to certain guests."

[Doji Yoshino]

There was a lot she could read into those courteous words. She nods in understanding. "From what Isawa-sama said it appears they care more about experiments and research than doing good or upholding honour. It was honestly... disturbing to hear him talk about children as experiments. I was left doubting the idea the results they seek are those people like me need." She took a deep breath. "Regardless of how effective the Institute is or how talented its members, and undoubtedly they are talented. Are we only allied to them out of necessity? I had less a foul taste in my mouth hearing Hida boast in court of fighting monsters than what he joyfully divulged."

[Asahina Jorujo]

"I'm minded to repeat something I've heard from Doji-bugyo," Jorujo replies.

"'That's above my pay grade.'"

[Doji Yoshino]

Yoshino reluctantly bobs her head in understanding. "Please enjoy the incense sticks. If you would ever like a painting or a calligraphy piece, please do let me know." That would be the actual gift. The incense were more a favour acknowledgement really.

She reaches for her furoshiki as she gets up. "I'll disturb you with one last question Asahina-sama. Do you have any suggestions of a good place to begin independent research on gaki and curses?"

[Asahina Jorujo]

Jorujo nods.

"Among the Toritaka, in truth," he says. "Although the Crab and the Phoenix will have much to offer, as well. But the last may not be...desirable."

[Doji Yoshino]

"The Toritaka and the Crab. That's very helpful." She dipped her head in thanks. "As usual." A proper bow followed.

"Please have a good day today Asahina-sama. Carry the Fortunes."

[Asahina Jorujo]

"And you, Doji-san," Jorujo replies, returning the bow.

[Doji Yoshino]

She slips out. Before she leaves the building she offers one more prayer at the altar. This time it's for the priest's good health and happiness.

/ Scene