"Oh, no. It's probably studies for me unless I get reassigned," Nozomi admitted, "Not all Kitsu are on the front lines. But most help out with research and development for war."

She raised a brow. "What if you marry out though?"

"I... I haven't actually thought about that. I guess it will depend of who I marry. My hypothetical new clan will probably send me to the front in some way though. Would be a waste of my talents to do otherwise."

"Of course. But who knows when you would be sent out?" Nozomi shrugged. "It'd really depend on the clan. If you were to, say, marry into the Lion, then I imagine you'd be sent to the front quite soon."

"A transition from the Crab to the Lion seems like a smooth one indeed. I could easily see myself as a member of the Matsu shock troops."

"Ah, yes," Nozomi said before clearing her throat, "There are a couple Matsu here as well. Chiyoko is a pretty famous sharpshooter, actually."

"Oh, I know about MAXIMUM RANGE Chiyoko! She's my roomie here actually. And I used to watch her exploits on the network while I was at the hospital.

She's just. So. Damn. Cool."

"She really is quite cool," Nozomi stated with an enthusiastic nod. She closed her eyes with a faint smile. "One would be lucky to room with her."

"I... might have been a bit too overly enthusiast during our first encounter... And she might have told me to leave her alone so she could sleep... But I'm sure this is all a misunderstanding we'll eventually solve.

Are you own roommates cool too?"

"Oh. Well, I am supposing she meant that only for the night. But I cannot be entirely certain," Nozomi concluded.

On her own roommates, she shrugged. "I've only made a passing acquaintance with them."

"Well, guess you still have all the reminder of the miai to get to know them if you wish too.

But speaking of meeting new people, I should really return to the inn prepare for my next rendez-vous. You don't keep a Crane lady waiting.

Or any Crane. Or any lady. Or anyone actually."

She bowed.

"It has been a pleasure Kitsu-sama. Call me if you wish we schedule something."

"Yes, I suppose the Crane aren't one to keep waiting," Nozomi stated plainly. She returned the bow and then smiled faintly. "It's been a pleasure."

It was time for Ruhe to leave. He could stay still in temples only for so long.

/exit