[D5, EA] Is it True You Speak to Horses? (Expecting)

[Akodo Michi]

Michi strode toward the Unicorn abode among all the fanciful houses placed for the great clans. She found insulting the Unicorn were placed so far away, and that their lodging was a tent, no matter how luxurious it may be on the inside.

These were enemies of the Lion clan, they must be given greater respect...by...other...enemies of the Lion.

That was not something Michi should dwell too much on. And so she approached with dignity and purpose, then called out to those there among the yurt.

"I am Akodo Michi, daugher of Toranaga and Reiko!" she said in a clear voice for all to hear. "I see Shinjo Jingyi for a matter of conversation with her honorable self." She bowed, then stood upright, watching all the people unfortunate enough to be caught by her gaze.

[Shinjo Jingyi]

A monkey emerged and studied the Lion for a few moments. It tilted its head to one side and then the other, simply staring. Fortunately, a Unicorn appeared shortly thereafter, distracting the creature from any other curious behavior.

"I apologize for keeping you waiting, Akodo-sama." she bowed respectfully. "I am Shinjo Jingyi."

The monkey vanished back inside.

[Akodo Michi]

"A pleasure to meet with you again, and outside of the tournament grounds, Shinjo-san", she said, offering a bow. "I hope you've had your rice, the day is still keeping it's morning chill, and so we must keep our strength."

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"I have Akodo-sama. Thank you." she nodded. "I hope your day has been pleasant so far."

[Akodo Michi]

"I admit it has, and grows more even now", she replied, stepping forward to the Shinjo. "I have come to ask about horses, it is not your duty or business to see to my care in this, but it is my hope that we find common ground on training with animals."

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"Animals, horses in particular, are my duty and business." She offered a friendly smile. "It pleases me when I can share what knowledge I can with others. What did you have in mind?"

[Akodo Michi]

"Admirable and gracious, Shinjo-san", she replied. "Might we go to the stables, then? I have thought to improve my performance in the way of horse archery, and I believe it is with the animal that I am weak."

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"As you wish." she nodded and led the way. "Do you spend much time with horses?"

[Akodo Michi]

"As we discussed some days ago, it is enjoyable, but I am not training to be a cavalry officer", she answered. "This is a unique opportunity, however, as we are both here. I cannot ignore your talent and I wish to improve."

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"Part of my skill comes from the time I've spent with horses." she explained. "Some of my earliest memories are riding with my father. I've spent so much time with animals, I'm more comfortable spending my time with them than with most people."

As they approached the stables and the riding grounds she whistled.

"I am sure that would seem unusual or even improper to some, but it is what comes natural to me. Obviously, I cannot teach all I have experience, but I can help encourage familiarity and comfort between a rider and their mount." She looked over at an approaching horse and smiled. "The first step is finding a good one."

[Akodo Michi]

"I am in your care, then", Michi replied with another bow of thanks, then waited to learn.

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"Hayakawa adapts well to different situations, making him a good mount for most people." she explained as the horse nudged her gently. "He can be playful, though."

Jingyi rubbed the horse's neck. "Every horse is different, of course. Some are high spirited, others are stubborn and obstinate, and some are still wild at heart. But, those traits may match well with certain riders. It's a matter of respect and trust. The more we offer them, the more they will return."

"Come say hello to Hayakawa, Akodo-sama." She stepped back to allow the Lion to massage the horse's neck, if she wished.

[Akodo Michi]

She stood an inoffensive distance at first, and nodded her head towards the animal. Without words, she reached out a hand and placed it on Hayakawa's strong neck, feeling the muscle and short hairs, taking in the smell.

Then she stepped closer and looked up at the horse's eyes, continuing to pet him.

"He is of a calm temperament, and much larger than the mounts we use in Lion lands", she said. "I was impressed not only by your manner in the saddle and with your bow, but also of your companion's poise. You were both well trained."

Her smile showed, but it was more like someone having found satisfaction in discovering a new way to smite an enemy.

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"Thank you." she dipped her head. "It was a scenario that we are well practiced in, through training and hunting. We are quite familiar with one another's movements and expectations. A bond like that is unlikely with a new or unfamiliar mount, but even a brief moment of interaction can create a connection, a shared understanding. Horses are not solitary creatures, they want companionship."

[Akodo Michi]

"Perhaps that is why..." she mused, her hand coming away from Hayakawa's side. She gazed into the animal's eyes a moment. "A horse is a companion, then."

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"Yes." the Shinjo nodded. "Would you like to go for a ride, Akodo-sama?"

[Akodo Michi]

"Yes", she said after a moment. "Thank you." and she regarded the horse again. "Please take care of me, Hayakawa-san." and she patted his head gently.

[Shinjo Jingyi]

He snorted softly.

Jingyi left them alone for a few minutes while she gathered another horse and the appropriate tack for both of them. She prepared both mounts, allowing Michi to assist if she wished

[Akodo Michi]

Having mounted a steed enough times, she did not need assistance, but did take advice on how to do so when considering an animal's disposition.

When they were ready, she nodded to the Shinjo.

"I am prepared, will we ride about just here or go further out of the village?"

[Shinjo Jingyi]

"Which would you prefer? A ride out beyond the village may be more enjoyable overall. However, if you wanted to practice different maneuvers, it may be easier here."