Liang had marched on in relative silence.  Despite not being an experienced marcher, Liang had always had the ability to perform monotonous tasks at length without complaint, just dwelling inside his own head and letting the miles pass by.  He was in such a condition when Keitaro spoke up.  He was happy to take Keitaro up on the offer of rations.  However, not wanting to risk appearing weak, Liang looked around as though surveying their position/progress, then over to Shiori.  He saw that she seemed amenable to the offer, and responded by nodding his assent.<br/><br/>His gaze remained on Shiori as he waited to see what everyone did.  Would they all plop down and just rest?  Then, for the second time that day, he found himself with a near clear view down Shiori's front.  Fortunately, her gaze alternated between her pack and Keitaro, so seemed unaware.  Liang enjoyed the view a brief moment, his attention then more focused on the odd verbal display from Shiori.  Obviously, he was aware that there was some emotional conflict between the two, but could not make out exactly what it was.  It wasn't as though Liang's mind was focused on that particular issue, however.<br/><br/>It didn't take long before Maseko one-upped Shiori, approaching Keitaro and removing his pack.  The process seemed uncomfortable, and Liang felt a small amount of pity for Keitaro, who was likely, Liang thought, struggling to remain any semblance of honor and/or dignity.  Liang did recognize the tone of mischief as she suggested that Shiori help Keitaro with his armor, though it wasn't entirely unreasonable.  Liang was the only other bushi, though he'd never worn heavy armor himself.  Though it was a bit of information he was not eager to make, "bushi" and "courtier" distinctions did not really exist among the Kaeru, except among the most talented, who usually left the city to remind Rokugan of their existence.<br/><br/>He'd been watching Maseko, and saw her coming as she approached.  He made no sign of protest, as he thought refusing her offer would be rude, though he wished for his pack to be removed less eventfully than Keitaro's.  As her hands sought him out, he did his best to predict her movements and speed the pack's removal, listening to Keitaro's explanation.  When Keitaro suggested Liang aid in armor removal, Liang quickly turned to explain, though the sudden action may have caught Maseko off guard.