D1MA, You Must Practice This Diligently (Open)

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"What?"

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"I'm saying we don't know anything about this place yet, merely exaggerating the point Ikoma-san" he held up his hands apologetically and smiled warmly.

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"Ah."

Matisutou nods.

"There are records of such things happening, however," he notes. "I recall reading one history that spoke of a hill-sized creature, fought by brave samurai in years past. I believe also I've read reports of large turtles that had soil and trees on their shells--until they submerged. I'd normally regard them as fanciful, save that they are attested in the Histories, which are necessarily correct."

He shrugs.

"There is much wonder yet in the world."

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"Indeed there is and we are the ones who get to explore this one, it is a great honor given to us and I can't wait to get started."

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"Zeal is service is admirable," the Ikoma notes. "Commendable, even."

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"How could one not be excited by this opportunity? No doubt the Blessed Emperor knows about this place, he could have sent a the Legion here but instead he allows the clans to choose and we have been chosen. You and I could have met in battle, instead we will be working together in service to the Empire as it should be. We fight and bicker on the mainland because many have lost sight of the fact that we are one empire in service to the same Emperor and guided by the same beliefs. Here, I hope, we can set aside ancient grudges and simple serve a common goal... and hopefully get a great tan in the process."

[Ikoma Matisutou]

The Ikoma attends closely to the Daidoji's words, nodding along with them--until the last, at which Matistutou cocks his head.

"A tan, Daidoji-san?"

His tone bespeaks some disbelieving confusion, as if they'd been discussing arson, murder, and jaywalking.

[Daidoji Kenzo]

He chuckled. "I keep getting that reaction. I am trying to prepare for this duty in ever way I can envision and I believe that a darker skin tone MAY help with blending in to the to the forest. I also have a simple dark tan kimono here with me, something that isn't as vibrant as my Crane blue and something i won't have to think twice about covering in dirt and leaves if I need to. Preparedness is key to survival in hostile territory."

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"There is wisdom in such words," Matisutou agrees. "I shall have to keep them in mind."

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"Thank you." he offered a bow. "Everyone else seems to think I'm wasting my time and will just turn red but if Daidoji Uji-sama can pull it off I figured I would try. Are you much of a swimmer Ikoma-san?"

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"I can swim," the Ikoma replies. "Even if I am not a Bayushi."

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"Well I hear there is some great oyster diving available here, in case you find yourself in need of a hobby."

Not the most talkative Lion I have ever met but he hasn't stabbed me so I think I'm OK here.

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"Is...that some euphemism?" Matisutou asks, cocking his head in curiosity.

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"Not at all ikoma-san. They are tasty, hide pearls in them and it's a good endurance test. I can't wait to see how long I can hold my breath while I go down there."

[Ikoma Matisutou]

The Ikoma closes his eyes for a moment, takes a middling-deep breath.

"I imagine the results will be worth the challenge."

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"Is something the matter Ikoma-san?"

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"No," comes Matisutou's reply, along with a shaking head. "Passing thoughts, not worth the mention."

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"Very well, you like to play things close the the chest it seems." he shrugged. "Well, I think I am going to head down to the beach and start working on that tan."

[Ikoma Matisutou]

"Carry the Fortunes--and enjoy," the Ikoma replies. "And make sure you sun evenly."

He gives a grin. "An uneven tan would look strange, indeed."

[Daidoji Kenzo]

"Fortunes carry you as well. You're welcome to join me."