sixwordstories | (no subject)

If you refer to me, then thank you.

However, he does not meet the man's eyes, his gaze slightly off center. An old sign that he was not being quite honest.

You're very welcome.

*he lifts his brows, as if to signify he knows his student is not being entirely truthful and he crosses his arms as he leans back*

Are you going to tell me what's on your mind or am I going to have pry?

He still did not meet the man's eyes, aware that he wasn't doing it, but to meet his eyes would cause him to fall silent. Even with all the blood on his hands, he still could not properly lie.

Nothing is on my mind. Nothing important.

*inwardly rolls his eyes and moves for the jug at his hip*

Are you old enough yet to appreciate the taste of sake?

He smiled ever so faintly and, this time, met the man's eyes.

The last time I drank it, I enjoyed it most.

*the master gave an approving nod and moved to fetch two small cups*

And what was the occasion last time?

He spoke quietly, more to himself, but it was still audible.

Tomoe and I drank together.

A pause.

I should not stay long. I must protect her.

Tomoe is your bride?

I promise, I shall not keep you from your lady's side for long.

He looked away ever so slightly again.

Yes. She is.

*and this time he does roll his eyes, in fact? He exaggerates the movement*

When was the wedding? *oh yes, is playing along*

His gaze stayed off center, though his voice was calm.

Four months ago, in Kyoto.

*pours two cups of sake and sets one before his former pupil*

How is married life suiting you?

It is quiet.

He did not say it as if it were a bad thing, looking at his former master before taking up the cup.

A ghost of a smile came to his features.

She wanted radishes.

So was life up in the mountains.

*takes his own cup and sips, eyes closed a moment*

...Easy to please, you've found yourself an ideal woman. I am impressed.

It was.

The tone was as close as he would come to voicing the notion that perhaps he had not been right. Saying such a thing? No.

He sipped from the cup silently, then spoke again, almost hesitant to say such a thing.

She is remarkable.

*And Hiko understands, even if he says nothing of it*

Could it be that you have found something to protect?

She deserves a protector.

The Hiten Mitsurugi style will, indeed, protect her, then.

Tell me of her. *sips his sake, leisurely*

I hope.

There was an uncertainty in his voice, and he frowned just slightly. He could only hope that by tying her fate to his, he had not doomed her.

But he pushed the thought away. It was for another time.

She is beautiful and gentle, yet unafraid. She has stayed my hand more than once.

She will be fine. I am confident in your abilities.

You were due for a bit of temperance. I commend her for being able to convince you when your blade is best left sheathed. Where did you meet?

We met in Kyoto.

To say much more might jeopardize the cover Katsura had set up for them.

I trust that you are well?

A bustling city. It's a wonder anyone can meet there as quickly as people come and go.

As well as I ever am, certainly.

Chance, I suppose, or fate.

Neither of which he was terribly comfortable putting his faith in.

You seem to be.

He set down his cup, empty now.

I should return. Tomoe will worry.

Contentment is a good look on you.

*nods*

Of course. Safe travels.

Thank you. It feels.. very nice.

He rose and bowed politely before turning to depart.