Quoted By:
"I do not wish to return to prison myself, especially if my life is in danger. Why do you believe that I may be killed? For my association with you?"
"I do not believe it at all a certainty, only a possibility. But yes, perhaps because of your proximity to me, you would be in danger. If I am being truthful with you, 'someone' may seek to <span class="mu-i">extract</span> from you, knowledge about me. In order to protect my investigation, I am legally obliged to prevent that from happening."
There is still no sword in Yuki's scabbard, yet these words carry a second more morbid meaning. Is the investigator even capable of such a thing? Nothing so far would lead you to believe so. '<span class="mu-i">It is the unseen blade that cuts the deepest</span>', the words echo through time.
"Then is your life not also in danger?"
"I am protected due to my status. Should I be struck down, the killers problems would only escalate. You, on the other hand, are a simple vagabond. No one would notice your sudden untimely end."
You offer a solution "Perhaps you can leave me here with Jakuchō? I believe you can trust a shrine maiden? That is of course, if the lady is willing to have me. "
This puts the young miko on the spot, she does not know you nor does she know what Yuki is investigating. Even still, the title of an imperial servant goes far to reassure anyone who considers themselves on the side of law and order. She thinks for a moment, then nods her head.
"I cannot turn away someone in dire need."
Yuki explains that you are still technically a prisoner, put in chains for a crime. Just because he doesn't know what it is, doesn't mean its not deserved. For all anyone knows, you could be a savage murderer and rapist. This takes you by surprise, as he has many times reassured you that he believes in your innocence. Perhaps he is trying to test the women's resolve? Or attempting to shift all blame off himself should 'something' happen. Jakuchō, looks through your soul and beyond. "I do not believe him to be a cruel man. As I said before, I cannot turn away someone in dire need."
"Then it is settled. I will leave you here while I continue my investigation. I may not return for a few days." He unlocks the shackles that chain you to his wrist, and instead chains you to the railing of the shrine.
"It will be up to your warden to decide if you should have freedom of movement."
He then places the key into Jakuchō's hand and speaks to her privately. You cannot hear what he has to say, nor can you ascertain anything from the maidens empty expression.
Yuki bows, to the both of you, one last time before leaving.
~~~
