<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/d/df/Geisha.jpg)</div><strong><span class="bbc_u">Now</span></strong><br/><br/>Mariko gave her own contented sigh, a hand slipping under the table to scratch the cute cat's ears idly, while she pressed closer against the samurai beside her. The side of her generous bosom pressed against Mai's own, and the geisha's cheek was inches away from the Asakura girl's. Mai could feel the girl's warmth, as well the strengthened scent of cherry blossoms. She gratefully accepted the offered sushi, smiling kindly.<br/><br/>"Worry not, bushi-dono. It is an honor to know that you would look after our well-being." The geisha replied to the comment about the bandits, nodding her head reverently, the most she could manage in this position. "Thank you."<br/><br/>Mariko took a sip of the offered sake. "The yellow flowers are called Keshi-" translated: poppies, "- they represent success. Perhaps having them be your first sight was a sign of the kami congratulating you for an exemplary job. If so, perhaps we can honor the spirits in thanks? We could dance the bon odori, if it is not so bold to suggest, bushi-dono."