[D8 - LN] Damn good niguiri (Expecting/Open)

[Kakita Masao]

Masao rolls his eyes, but recognizes that he's right.

"Well, maybe listening to my friends more has been a wise decision."

[Asahina Sanaharu]

"Completely. Especially in fashion. And, if you want my opinion, I still think your father isn't allowing you to marry that Falcon."

[Kakita Masao]

Masao bristles a little, but as they pass out of the castle courtyard still on course toward the house, he isn't going to take Sanaharu's temporary candor too personally.

"I appreciate Asahina-san's opinion, but we will take that matter up with my honored father. In the meantime, Asahina-san and his friend, the master of dance, have an interesting way of showing their discouragement of this one's heart." As with his question about 'love' earlier, Masao's comment now is in a friendly tone, clearly not opposed to what his friends have done.

[Asahina Sanaharu]

"You are free to suggest the matter of your wedding with Kakita-dono as much you would like, Masao-ue. It would simply not be wise for this servant to try to influence your father on such a decision you made, knowing why you took this very decision. I work on his interest, not yours, and I'm no opportunist to do what pleases you just because he is close to retiring. Whoever you romance doesn't matter to me, other than that I may offer myself as your poetry ghostwriter."

[Kakita Masao]

Masao nods. It's late, and everyone is tired -- not just from today, but the other days in this strange week. Still, he understands the way of things, and he's far from one to begrudge honesty.

"Thank you, Asahina-san. You have done much to help me -- and my family -- in the recent days. And I appreciate what part of that is duty, and what part is beyond what duty demands. It will all be remembered."

[Asahina Sanaharu]

"I'm not good at making friends and I know it, but what I know is that I'm good at making allies. Having me always owing something, no matter how minor, in the trade of something greater, helps. On top of all, though, your father doesn't deserve to see two of his children dying. I could not try not to intervene. I feel sorrow, not only from the others but also myself."