Dawn of the Samurai

"Sure. It's worked thus far."

 

"Good, then you won't mind that I have an appointment this afternoon with the general of the guard. He seems to have taken a shine to me."

 

"Just watch yourself. The guards have been known to be quite lecherous."

 

"I can look after myself thank you, and who knows, not everyone is evil. I will see what I can learn while I'm there. You worry far too much, or are you scared that I might be happy and decide to stay?"

 

"No, I'm just worried that the guards might try to take advantage of you."

 

"Well you don't seem to be able to look after me so I'll look after you then. If that means taking risks then so be it."

 

"Then while you're out, ask about the whereabouts of Minister Uzuki."

 

"So you trust me enough to do that? Great! I intend to enjoy myself as well if that's ok. I have just bought something to wear."

 

"Have fun. I'll go get us some rooms at the inn."

 

Maiko walked to the Inn to get a room so that she could change. She was looking forward to going out. After changing she left for the large house just off the square. She was greeted warmly at the door and disappeared inside.

 

Akira laid on his bed in his room, trying to relax.

 

The evening went pleasantly and smoothly. Maiko was really enjoying herself. It seemed that Akira was wrong and she was perfectly safe. Why would Akira say such horrible things? Was he jealous because she was getting attention and Kaia wasn't giving him any? She brushed the thought away and enjoyed the company of such a charming man as Takahiro.

 

Akira went to the bar to have a quick drink and see what information he could dig up.

A few drinks will loosen the lips of even the most closed mouthed individual.

 

At the end of the evening Takahiro escorted Maiko back to the inn. She chatted to him and then he bowed and left. Wandering to her room, Maiko felt like a young girl. She had Akira's precious information as well as a second invitation.

 

Akira walked back to the inn, having been unsucessful in getting any important information. He went to his room and flopped down on the bed.

 

Maiko heard Akira return and guessed he had no luck when he tried to get information. He could wait until the morning for her news, as he obviously would have seen her enter the inn and hadn't checked that she was ok.

 

Akira stood up and went to wash his face. He walked to Maiko's room and knocked on the door.

 

Maiko opened the door a crack and peered round. "Yes, what is it?" She yawned and opened the door when she saw Akira. "Come in then."

 

Akira walked inside and sat down on a chair.

"So, how did everything go?"

 

"Fine. Takahiro is a real gentleman and very charming. He actually really likes me. I found out a lot about the town and who's who here. More than you found out I guess."