[D4: MA:Open] Sands of time

[Kakita Masao]

The Kakita is surprised -- shocked, really -- when Hanatsuko kind of collapses into his arms. He doesn't hesitate to hold her, still concerned, but when he feels her gentle squeeze on him, he's terrified. It's strange, unexpected... But he can't resist squeezing her gently in return. After a moment, he finds he doesn't want to let go. He forces himself to take a breath, catching a whiff of her hair, and immediately feeling even more lost in the moment.

Somehow Masao takes in a deep breath, and manages to whisper, "Toritaka-san? Are you alright?"

[Toritaka Hanatsuko]

Falling on the Kakita wasn't a surprise for her because Sari was a strong dog. She as well didn't want to let go taking in the aroma of the Kakita. Time doesn't stop for people and even if it felt like it was the previous day this was today.

"I am fine Kakita san... Sari took me by surprise." She explained.

[Kakita Masao]

The Crane, noticing she hadn't moved away, is happy to keep her there as long as she likes.

Grandson, comes the stern voice in his head. You've had your moment. Straighten up. What are people going to say if they find you like this, hmm? What'll they say about her?

Masao is really only concerned by the last words, but they're enough to force his eyes open. Regretfully, with a heavy sigh, he quietly says, "Toritaka-san, we..." A heavy breath. "I don't want to, but we should probably let go." Then he rushes to whisper, "I mean, just for now."

He lets up any pressure on her, so she can move when she's ready, but he's not pushing her.

Grandson!

[Toritaka Hanatsuko]

She nodded. The woman straiten. "Of course... perhaps I should continue with my duty." She nodded. "I should continue helping Kakita Konohamaru dono." She nodded again. "I think we are about to have a breakthrough."

[Kakita Masao]

Kakita Masao lets worry remain on his face. Trying to make sure things are alright, he says optimistically, "I'm sure you and Kakita-sama will succeed. And duty..." His voice shifts lower again: "I consider it my duty to help you. In any way I can. So please, call on me when I can help."

Be careful grandson... Masao shakes his head. With a little more force this time, he affirms, "I will help in any way I can."

[Toritaka Hanatsuko]

"I am honored by your offer." The woman stood up and shook off the sand on her hakama. "I will let you know." She whistled at Sari and Kuma. Sari followed Hana and Kuma perched on her shoulder. "You two... we should talk later."

[Kakita Masao]

The Falcon's abrupt departure rattles Masao, and he says nothing as she and the animals leave. He stays sitting the sand for a time, really unsure of what he did and where they stand now.

You said it yourself, grandson, she's like a ghost. Mysterious, ethereal. You should probably stop trying so hard to figure her out. Masao chuckles at what he assumes is a joke.

Grandson, this is serious. Your little samurai-ko friend and her animals... You heard what she said the other day about her future plans. That doesn't sound much like how a thoroughly prepared soldier would want to live.