The New Winds

Only after committing herself to finishing the schedule given to the students for the day did Nobuko attempt to draw the attention of one of the Sensei. She chose to go to the dojo for signs of the Unicorn's presence and from there search out the Battle Maiden who had looked particularly adept at all things physical. If going by her physique was any indication, at least.

The Unicorn sensei was indeed conducting something athletic inside the dojo, but instead of kata as usually, the athletic and lean woman was doing a series of calisthenics. She wears an nontraditional garb for Rokugani, tight fitting clothing and trousers, her hair tied back into a pony tail and a headband to keep sweat out of her eyes.

"Good evening, Otomo-san."

Nobuko bowed upon being acknowledged, "Good evening Sensei. I hope I am not interrupting?"

She certainly wouldn't want to start off on the wrong foot by distracting a teacher during her workout on the first day. No matter how... non-traditional the teacher seemed to be. But that was partially why she had sought her out. It was not exactly traditional for a woman of her own position and path in life to be as... physically active as the current training demanded. But she had been selected for this and would do her best to succeed.

Which meant, well, learning a bit more about how to handle herself in a martial or outdoor environment.

"I had hoped to speak with you, however, if you are able to spare a moment of your free time for a student such as myself."

The woman finishes her set of sit ups and then stands, wiping her face with the back of her hand.

"It is not a bother, I am here for your benefit. It is my duty to guide and instruct. What do you need help with?"

She took a few steps forward, but kept herself a respectful distance away, bowing a second time as she said, "Thank you, Sensei."

Then she straightened and set her shoulders back, "Today's physical assessment was... not what I expected. Of course, it was my fault for putting expectations on what we would be seeing training in and for that I must apologize. However, it still stands that I was unprepared and did not put forth a a good showing. I know that your day, today, is already spoken for, but I was hoping that perhaps... sometime tomorrow, between lessons, you might be able to find a few moments to help me better prepare for future lessons that require us to be more... physical... than most of the courts I am more familiar with... will be."

The woman smiles, her eyes bright and friendly.

"It is good to know your weaknesses, and even better to seek to improve them. Of course you and I may spend some time together. Perhaps join me in a workout? If you learn my routine and continue to practice it, you will grow much stronger and faster."

A smile of her own broke out across her face, relief visible for a precious few moments before she caught herself and schooled her expression into something less obvious and more acceptable, more subdued. She bowed again, deeper, "Thank you, Sensei. Joining you in your work out would be an honor. Would it be tomorrow at this same hour? Or does it start earlier?"

"My schedule is flexible where yours is not as much. Simply send for me when you are ready and available, your tasks completed."

"As you say, it is less flexible. I will ask for you when I have found time to myself, my duties done," she gave another half bow and stepped backward, not wanting to impose further on the instructor's time. "Thank you, Sensei."

"I look forward to it, Otomo-san"

The Utaku maiden gives a bow and then returns to her exercise.

/scene