[ Satisfaction at winning the non-argument helps the onmyoji loosen up a fraction. Not enough to just go paddling about, but enough that he doesn't look like a half-dead, wallowing toad. Kaoru can even see his whole face. All the redness included. ]

Are there any particular things you like more than others that I should be aware of? I do not know the limits of what the Bastion will provide but I would like to take a stock for the meal.

[ Nevermind it was ALSO part of a clever ruse to get Kaoru to forget the idea of a house party, if possible. ]