Things certainly got heavy all of a sudden, didn't they? One minute you're having a fairly genial chat about spirit animals, the next you're finally getting to hear why Kasumi's family wanted to talk to you - and then, abruptly, Shiden begins talking about the possibility that Altria is part of somebody's attempt to undermine an important family. Okay, you get that he's a ninja, and therefore trained to be subtle, suspicious, and sneaky, especially where the safety of his own people or those that he can call allies and genuinely mean it are at risk - you doubt you'd do any different, in his place - but even so, it's annoying. You're not even sure if that last remark was a threat against Altria if she turns out to be a spy - you mentally snort at that idea - a warning about potential dangers to her person that she might not have been aware of, or just another attempt to get more information from her.
Actually, thinking on it, it was probably all of the above.
The fact remains that, while you can understand where Shiden is coming from and what he's getting at, it doesn't change that you're starting to lose patience with the man. Your totem is the Raging Boar, after all - not the Calm Boar, not the Patient Boar, and certainly not the Political Boar. You've met Shiden on his terms, without your own master around to counsel you, you've answered his questions, and you've even revealed some private personal facts. You'd appreciate some reciprocity here, and the lack of it is really beginning to grate.
But still, you exercise a little patience, and say nothing. It's Altria's show right now.
Gained Cool F+
"I can appreciate your concern for the safety of your associates, sir," the blonde says. "I am also quite certain that, in this case at least, it is unnecessary. I have it on very good authority that my particular connection with the Dragon is unique, and has nothing to do with my lineage. I would of course understand if you wished to confirm this claim, and I can easily arrange a meeting with Ambrose to that end."
"I would appreciate that, Miss Drake," Shiden says.
You make a personal note to be far, far away when that particular meeting takes place. Secretive ninja master and meddling wizard, waging an old-fashioned information war with one another in the same room? Thank you, but no.
"In the meantime," the man continues, "I believe it is now your turn to ask a few questions. While keeping in mind that there are some things I am sworn to hold in trust, what would you like to know?"
You look at Altria. She looks back.