[X] Actually Kakita-san, If I seem disturbed it is because I have duties to accomplish. Could you please direct me to a local inn? I am sure that a connoisseur of culture such as yourself would be able to recommend the best.
Your eyes narrow at the man's words. Those alone would be worth notice, for they hold arrogance that cannot be denied. Granted, it is only proper that a Samurai take pride in their Clan. It is, after all, the instrument by which they serve the Emperor and thus the Heavens. So this by itself is isn't something to be overly concerned over.
But his tone… His tone hides implications. His tone twists his words into something else, hints at hidden meanings resting just below the surface. With his mention of your home, connected with his earlier mention of Crane artistry, his tone clearly indicates he finds his own superior. Even more, he mentions 'proper culture' in relation to his lands...
Ah, you muse, coming to the proper conclusion. He's trying to goad me.
That or make you seem a fool to his friends by not understanding the meaning of his attempted insults. The former might land you in a duel, in which case the Kakita likely wins and humiliates you in the street. The latter earns him something to laugh about, and nothing more.
As such, there's really no choice as to the better option.
"Actually Kakita-san, If I seem disturbed it is because I have duties to accomplish," you say, smiling despite a powerful urge to slap this fool silly. But you've more important matters to attend to. "Could you please direct me to a local inn? I am sure that a connoisseur of culture such as yourself would be able to recommend the best."
The Kakita blinks, frowning at your lack of any obvious reaction. He wasn't expecting this kind of reply. No doubt he expected you to respond with rudeness, to yell at him for the barely hidden meanings behind his words. All the better to lead you into a trap you would have no chance of escaping.
And to be fair, a few months ago you'd likely have jumped into that trap without ever noticing your danger. But you have seen and experienced much, and know full well the perils a quick temper can bring. You are not the same person you were before beginning this journey, both for good and for ill, and who you are now will not fall for the kind of tricks you might have before.
"Forgive me, Hiruma-sama, but I am confused," the Kakita says after a moment. "You say you are going about your duties, but are seeking an inn?" His frown deepens. "And your manner of address… You are being quite informal."
You can't help a raised eyebrow at the man's response, showing plainly your thoughts on that matter. Yes, it is common practice to refer to Samurai you are unfamiliar with as 'sama' until everyone's status is properly known, but it is a minor faux pa at best. It's not even truly a breach of etiquette, and most reasonable people overlook it unless the other person continues to be willfully obtuse about honorifics.
Which tells you a number of things. This Kakita is almost certainly looking for some excuse to humiliate you, likely with a duel, and is willing to reach quite far in order to manage it. The only question is why. Is this merely because of the feud between your Clans, or does it hint at some deeper purpose that this man is going so much out of his way?
Unfortunately, you have little chance to consider such matters and formulate a response before things are taken out of your hands.
"I would politely suggest you cease in this, Kakita-sama," Hanabi says through a forced smile. "You are addressing the honorable Hiruma Sosuke-sama, Yojimbo to the esteemed Yasuki Goro-sama." The smile widens, showing its brittle edges. "It would be well if you kept your tone respectful."
"Oh really?" the Kakita asks, his frown melting away into a genial smile. "Well, I suppose I should… If I feel so inclined." He places his hand on the hilt of his sword. "Unless, of course, you feel the need to force the matter, Mirumoto-sama?"
[] Write in.
[] Stay silent.
