<div class="floatright">(https://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/6/68/Utaku_Kotone.jpg)</div><strong>Utaku Kotone</strong>(https://docs.google.com/document/d/1pDiKxEC0U2ndYLtYCctV2CTnKtkmEDs-D6mROL-DpbA/edit)<br/><br/>“Now would be a good time, Liang-san,” Kotone replied at the inquiry pertaining to rice.  She drew a purse out from the neck of her robe, slipped out a heavy coin that glistened with gold, and pressed it into his hand.  “I hope that will help.  If you can find a jar of spicy bean paste to go with it—and maybe a jug of pickled vegetables—that would be appreciated too.”<br/><br/>Kotone's eyes lingered over Shiori for a moment, and she gave a wistful smile, followed by a bittersweet sigh.<em>Do they even realize what they feel for each other?  I hope they find out before it's too late...</em><br/><br/>Maseko's greeting made Kotone warm up quite a bit.  She gave a bow—not of greeting so much as gratitude.<em>I think we'll get along just fine.</em>“Thank you, Maseko-san.”  She chuckled.  “Last year my aunt threw me into a pool wearing this, told me I couldn't keep it if I couldn't get back to shore on my own.  Don't know what I would have done if there was a current.”<br/><br/>She turned to Keitaro and gave a pleasant smile.  “I appreciate that, Keitaro-san.  I'm sure Keiko will too.  If you don't mind dividing the burden between us, then I'll be able to use Keiko to scout on occasion.  Since they will only be brief jaunts, and Keiko will be walking at her ease the rest of the journey, I should be able to take Shiori with me.  Oh, and I know you will all do what you can in battle to let me do my part--for which I am greatful.  Sensei told me many times, though.  Those who do not have swords can still die by them.”