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The women's mind is a fortress, and the walls are defended by the criminally insane. You cannot clime over the ramparts and look upon the motives hidden on the other side, nor see into the truth of her words and promises. What you can see, is that she is not completely sane. And not just because she is a women! Her emotional instability takes a step beyond that. Further more, there is a darkness in her. There is a darkness in this room. Its everywhere, one the ceiling, on the walls, in the furniture, even all over the people. It infects everything, its even on you.
"I will deliver Yuki to you, but first I need my sword. Give it to me and then you will have my trust."
Her eyes are cold and inquisitive "Then will you use it to take me hostage? Maybe cut me down instead? Or just betray me, and have your sword too?" she scowls. "You must think me a fool. Such arrogance." She again takes up your sword and offers it to you, hilt first.
"Take it then"
Your arms and legs are bound. Despite this, you try and reach out to your sword all the same. Your struggle against the ropes is titanic, but futile. Your blade yearns to return to you as well. Ever so slowly, it starts to slip from its scabbard and slide towards you.
"The offer is closing swordsman. <span class="mu-i">Take it</span>." She watches you struggle for a while longer before retracting the offer. "We have already duelled, and you have already lost. That's why you sit there, and I stand here. I have set the terms, you prove your worth and I will return your sword. Not before. If you are worthy of your arrogance, then you can find your own blade. This is the one I offer"
The struggle has taken its tole, and your breathing is haggard. "How are you so sure that I won't betray you, why have you told me all this?"
"Perhaps you will not aid me, but I do not believe you will betray me. Or will you tell the inspector you know of his lies? Tell him that you know he plans to throw you to the wolves? What else can you tell him that he doesn't already know, but can't prove? The wiser move is to let the chips fall, and hope that your enemies destroy each other. You would be the greatest fool in this city if you believe you can find repentance from an imperial by serving."
"Then set me loose, and wait to see how well you have gambled. Or would you swear obedience to your first?"
"Words are meaningless, only action matters. I will not ask you to serve by force, I would have you do it willingly. Know this, those who stand with me choose this path, it is the shogunate that <span class="mu-i">demands</span> obedience."
