Despair and Wisdom: Imperial March

Yoshi looks over the wall, looking over. Carrion birds have gathered in the aftermath and the sites of his own fighting were visible from the scorch marks. He's had a lot on his mind of late.

From behind him, Kumiko says "It is good to see so many survived."

She'll nod when and if he turns.

"Daidoji-chui" Yoshi turns and bows. "We were well prepared, even against such a fearsome host. Without being too arrogant, the rumors of the 4th Kaisha has turned quite positive. I believe we have you to thank. You brought out the best of us, even with our, ah, assorted quirks. Myself included."

Yoshi pauses. "If I might have a moment, I would ask your advice. You've always been perfectly blunt with me: not cruel, or unsympathetic, but unwilling to deceive or flatter, so your opinion carries weight"

"Soldiers should look to their commanders for guidance," Kumiko replies. "And commanders should share what they know."

Yoshi waits as he considers his thoughts.

"I'll admit that I joined the 42nd for my own selfish reasons. The plan was to return to Otosan Uchi with a bit of service under my belt, maybe some war stories to charm my way into some beds. And, to be sure, I hope to return someday."

"But in the Legion? No one made me feel small. So long as I held up and carried my weight and chipped in. I don't know much of that was from serving under you, but...comrades in arms is a new thing. I can see a place here long term, and I think there is a chance of making something of myself here."

"But self deception is the most insidious kind. I would appreciate your insight as to whether you believe I would serve better within the Legion, or supporting outside of it"

"There are many ways in which to serve," Kumiko replies. "But there is much of worth in serving alongside the willing and able, in fighting beside others. And it is the case that service in the Legion offers many opportunities, not only for advancement, but for enrichment.

"There is always a need for procurement officers, of course, and a diversity of opinion and understanding, properly harnessed, allows for flexibility and greater chance of success. Certainly, the Rikugunshokan values as much. Certainly, too, unit performance demonstrates as much."

She pauses, considering.

"There is also some utility in familiarity. Retraining, though sometimes needed, is resource-intensive, and not only for those receiving the training. Retention is often a better method."

Yoshi is quiet for a bit. "I think I'll stay around awhile, if you'll have me. Maybe not for life but" he examines his superior's expression "enough to be sure I can handle myself in the world. Maybe one day I can help Daidoji-chui if she ever wants an army of her own."

"It would be good to have familiar faces in formation," Kumiko says. "And someone who is a tested Legionnaire might find a niche in the unit, with training to suit."

There is a slight smile.

"Though I have little doubt Kasuga-san can handle himself well already."

Yoshi pauses and shrugs. "I can brain a bandit easily enough. But to stand on my own? Well, I'll be in your care"

"That would be well, Kasuga-san," Kumiko says.

"That would be well, indeed."

"Now, if I'm staying on" Yoshi reaches into his kimono and pulls out the pipe he's been avoiding on the march. "Is there anything I can acquire for you? I may be walking a straighter line, but requisitioning something for his superior is part of duty, no?" Yoshi packs the pipe and offers it.

Kumiko waves the pipe away.

"It might be good to find something to cheer the members of the kaisha who faced...what it was they faced."