A slow, dull, yet intense pain blossomed in Kanaka's chest, forcing her to grip the lapels of her haori. The thought of being replaced terrified her, but the thought that Junkojuro might do a better job terrified her even more because then her desire to remain by the side of her beloved uncle and brother was a selfish desire, something she wanted more than the success and safety of her brother. She realized that she would always choose to remain, even if it meant that her ineptitude brought the entire clan to ruin. Because leaving her family was the one thing she could never bring herself to do.

"NO!" Kanaka said, more forcefully than she had ever said anything before. "P-please...don't replace me...I...I couldn't stand it." Kanaka realized she was shaking and clenched her fists to steady herself. "I...I may not be as strong, or as smart, or as spiritually gifted as you. I may not be immortal, I may be naive and ignorant..." She looked up at the fox spirit with a sharp, piercing gaze, the hint of tears in the corners of her eyes, "But I will NEVER leave Ryuunosuke-oniisama's side...Teach me!" Kanaka demanded, rather selfishly. "Teach me so that I may be useful. Teach me that I may earn my place next to those I love. In return..." her voice trailed off into a whisper. She took a deep breath, "In return...I'll give you anything that is within my power to give!"