The New Winds

Mai went to where Akodo Eiko was.

"Yes, Mantis-san?"

Mai bows to the Lion. "Hello, Akodo-sensei. I wanted your advice on something, before I bring up it to my lord." Mai takes in a breath to calm herself. "I have been considering the future. Usually, a shugenja of my Clan would become a navigator on a ship. But after studying under you and reading Leadership, I have become very interested in battles and tactics. I was thinking of requesting to join my brothers and sisters who go to serve as mercenaries for the Lion. At the worst, I would get first hand experience. At best, once the general realizes what a Mantis shugenja can do - that we are capable of altering the weather - I might be able to be there for the planning session." Mai lets Eiko soak it in, before asking her question. "Do you think it is a foolish idea?"

"Hmm."

The general places a hand on his chin and looks down at the ground in thought.

"Weather is a deciding factor in battle, but I must admit, I do not see how it would benefit the command staff to need you there at all times. Only on occassion for a quick check. Additionally, mercenaries in Lion Armies are only for the front lines..."

Mai nods resignedly. "I figured such. Though I figure the front lines bit could be an exception for my abilities. Is there another way I could possibly learn more from your Clan? I am happy to pull my weight and return what services I could provide?"

"Considering you are a priest however, the Vanguard is not a place for you. This does require some thought. What is it you wish to learn? Is there something I can teach you before you leave, or are you looking more long term?"

"Probably more long term. I never learned much about tactics and such before coming here. My sensei back home didn't think it would be very necessary. But it is fascinating in ways I never knew. I suspect there are many things that I want to learn that I don't know that I want to learn." Mai notices her head kind of shifted down in thought as she talked, she straighten herself and looked back at the Lion.

"Though I would be honored to learn anything you would think is best before I leave."

((OOC note: Mai will be using Dojo Points to buy Akodo Eiko as an Ally and buy Tactician with XP in Part 2 of character creation.))

"Hmm..."

The Lion looks up and into Mei's eyes for a minute.

"I do not think there is much I can teach you today, but perhaps..."

He clears his throat.

"Perhaps we could find a way to work on things when all this is over."

"Of course. Thank you, Akodo-sensei. I look forward to it." Mai notices the time. "Well, I should be getting ready for the ceremony. Good-bye, Akodo-sensei. I look forward to our future meeting." She bows and then with appropriate good-byes, leaves.

/scene?

He returns the bow, a little lower than usual. He watches as she leaves, contemplation filling his features.

/scene