[quote=ruronihs]
"As for why I invited you here, I'm not entirely sure. For the past decade or so, my presence has been unknown, so perhaps the prospect of being able to speak openly with at least one other person was alluring. Or perhaps I did not want to wake up one day to find a talisman on my head. Either way, you must admit it is much simpler this way. With your sight you would have found me eventually. At least this way you can be at ease knowing that the youkai lurking in your home means you no harm, and I can be at ease knowing that my gardening won't be upset by a need to hide from you. What a shame it would be if I neglected a flower simply because you were standing near it!" He gave another soft laugh as he gently stroked a bud, as if coaxing it to bloom. "Ah, but that is only my side of the story. Surely you have one of your own. You came to me of your own free will, and quite off-guard. Was there something that you wished to achieve in speaking with me, or was it simply a whim like mine?"
[/quote]

"I knew that, though hidden, there was a strong spiritual presence on the grounds, but I had not been able to locate the source due to my duties at the shrine. You also responded to me in a positive way when I made my presence known," Kanaka explained. "I...I am glad that you mean no harm. My main reason for seeking out Hakurou-dono and yourself was to ascertain any spiritual threats that may be posed to Ryuunosuke-oniisama. Even better than finding no threats, would be if I were able to enlist help, spiritual allies, who would support the Wolf Clan. Yet my own ineptitude has resulted in my brother losing face in front of Hakurou-dono. I wanted desperately to help, to be useful, but if my presence is an inconvenience and will spoil my brother's reputation, maybe it would be better if I wasn't here." Kanaka tugged at her own sleeve and looked wistfully away.