Madge
The chicken has been served. Attendants would walk around to ask everyone's preferred drinks as after wished for, they'd appear from thin air almost. The lanterns dangling above them ignited once more as the feast had now truly started. Four would be around every single table. Now it was time for a nice conversation between the heaps of chicken to be consumed. 

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Bessie
Even Miho's way of eating was orderly. Two bites of chicken, wipe your mouth with the napkin, drink (water, it was too early for sake), repeat. This was the ideal way to enjoy the crispness of the chicken without drying her mouth, and the constant drinking would make sure to fill up her stomach quicker and make sure she didn't overindulge and slow down her senses. She was quite proud if this method , truly the peak of efficiency: of course, it was not like eating was a competition... But if it was, she'd win.

As she filled her stomach properly, it came the time she couldn't get away no more with being silent. Her sharp eyes wandered a moment over the table. Kazuko she already knew, of course, but there also was another guest she did not know. First impression... Mantis, slightly roguish, but properly dressed. Good enough. "I apologise, I should have introduced myself first. My name is Ikoma Miho, Chui of the Third company. Thank you for joining our humble feast." Shs bowed her head rigidly. Her words were courteous, but her face was hard as stone, almost hostile. It was good she hadn't joined the Bard school of her kin.

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Carrie
This had not been what Kana had expected when she came to the celebration tonight.

She had come expecting conversation and merriment. Yes, the Lion had somewhat a reputation for being stiff and overly concerned with formality and honor, but the time she had spent with Miu had convinced her that was perhaps not entirely the case. One look at Ikoma Miho, though, quickly reminded her that the reputation of the Lion existed for a reason. Then there was the Unicorn ambassador; a highly respectable woman who she wished to earn the approval of for many a reason, but also a rather severe woman who in her mind could easily be taken for a typical Lion had she been dressed in yellow. To say this was to be unlike a Mantis party would be a gross understatement. 

There was at least the small mercy that she was unlikely to be questioned about certain connections in front of someone from another clan, however, and at this point she was willing to take what mercies she could regardless of the size. She also did have her status as a magistrate.

Approaching the table, she bowed. "Good evening, Ikoma-san. I am Moshi Kana, magistrate of the Mantis Clan. The honor is mine to have been invited and to attend."

She smiled politely, and then moved to take a seat.

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Bonnie
Kazuko spent a few moments in silence, observing the two samurai she had gathered to her table. She carefully readjusted her kanzashi. An observant eye 
Might note the tansy blooms now in the direction of the largest gathering of Scorpion samurai.

Of her two companions thus far at the table, both were selected for reasons. Kana for her role in future Unicorn negotiations, Miho for her lack of confidence in her Ambassador. Both had information the taisa hoped to trawl out of them should the opportunity present itself. Still a seat was left open to provide an appearance of being able to accommodate another guest.

The Ikoma had already began to eat, and did so as if she was a soldier between battle drills. She could appreciate the efficiency, even if the intent did not match the atmosphere. "Moshi-san, Ikoma-san, thank you both for agreeing to join me at this table."

Taking the cup with the strong liquor therein, the Ambassador threw it back in a single, fluidly violent motion before Fuyuko moved to refill it from the appropriate bottle. Gesturing toward the other two samurai with one hand while holding one of the chicken's legs in the other, she silently asked if either of them would like their cups filled.

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Bessie
Miho shook her head politely. At the cost of appearing discourteous, she would not drink with the Unicorn, at least not so soon in the evening: half the city's prominent samurai were here, and she specifically was sitting between an Ambassador and a Magistrate. A wrong word, and her career was over. Besides, the stuff Kazuko was drinking looked obscenely strong, and she was quite sure a couple of cups would put her under the table. Did the Unicorn always drink like this...? "I am the one thanking you, Utaku-san, Moshi-san. Your presence here incenses our humble feast."

She fell quiet again, but she wasn't planning to stay that way. This was an opportunity, not only for her clan, but also for her. If she proved capable to mingle with the great and the good, her reputation would only raise, especially In the eyes for her superior. "I should have asked that before, but is fried chicken truly of your taste? You needn't worry about offending us: our only preoccupation is pleasing our guests. If you would prefer something else, either in food or drink, the kitchen shall provide for you." To be frank, she hadn't asked the kitchen if they could, but if she was the one to ask it, they *Would* Find a way. They didn't seem to have problems with the food anyway, so she was quite sure they'd just refuse the offer, as expected of them. *Unless they want to cause problems...*

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Carrie
Kana reluctantly took small bites of the chicken on her plate; it was every bit as delicious as she had hoped, and she yearned to just start digging in with reckless abandon, but she knew right now that was not in the cards. Not when she was seated with two who were quite so upright as these two. "The food is excellent, Ikoma-san," She replied. "I've no need for any special orders or accommodations.

Once the liquor came out at the table, though, even proper etiquette couldn't completely hide her relief, which only grew as she saw the ambassador throw it back with such gusto. Maybe there would be a chance to let her hair down a bit at this celebration after all.

Metaphorically speaking, of course.

"Ah, I would be honored to, thank you, Utaku-sama!" She replied, a familiar grin finding its way back on to her face.

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Madge
Miu would pop up. Just out of the blue, bowing down to everyone in the appropriate manner. She was simply here to either break the tension or to create it. Whichever she had truly felt like. But she had promised to behave, much like Himiko had assigned her to do. She had just felt the urge to speak with Kana about many things they had planned. Like her trip to Yomi over some tea, their bathhouse and the letters they had received in attempt to defend it. She wished to gain the friendship and knowledge of this Mantis. A grand smile would grow over her face. Watching Kazuko throw back a cup of liquor just like that. She wished to do the same. 

*"I am just here to make sure all is okay. Do please let me know if I could help out with anything! Even if it is a recommendation of our best drinks tonight. "* 

The golden eyes glanced over the table, making sure all plates and cups were refilled if considered necessity. 

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Bonnie
Acquiescing to the Lion's wishes, Kazuko instead made to have Fuyuko pour for the Moshi. The food was quite good, and the grease of the meal would be counteracted well by the drink as well as the rice provided. In some ways this felt more familiar than the more sophisticated feel of the last party she attended. It reminded her far more of the feasts the night before a fierce battle, though in those situations she could not drink nearly as much as she planned to tonight.

"The food is more than sufficient, Ikoma-san. The skill of your chefs is matched by the breadth of your hospitality." Having finished the easily eaten pieces of the chicken, Kazuko now began to break into the body itself with her hands. It was a precise work, quartering what remained, then producing a metal pronged instrument to remove the meat from any bones that could not be easily pulled apart. "We did not get the opportunity to speak when last we met, Moshi-san, but I hear that you work as a Magistrate for your clan. A laudable assignment. How do you find working in this city?"

Miu would arrive, and offer her aid. Kazuko gave the shugenja her full attention. It was rude to ignore one's host after all. Tilting her head slightly, she raised an eyebrow at the Kitsu. "Your best drinks would be good to know. I requested whatever was strongest, is that what this is?"

There was a slight disappointment in the translated words. Perhaps the taisa felt it was not as strong as she had hoped it to be.

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Madge
A small chuckle came from the lion as she shook her head. *"No Utaku-sama, this is the strongest Himiko-san knows about. Please allow me to introduce us to something stronger."* The Lion would leave with a bow. She had clearly left to grab something much stronger. She returned with a bottle. *"However do not speak to Himiko-san about my mischievousness on this matter. This is one from my personal collection however I do not mind to share it with you."* The lion would set it on the table. A few cups would follow. Sochu, not any sochu, something that was stronger somehow. She had gotten it as a gift and loved it since. Was the ambassador asking for something stronger, another bottle would appear right besides it as Miu elaborated. *"This one is not for the faint of heart. Seriously, if you have issues with your heart please seek me out first."* Miu seemed stern about this one. 

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Bessie
She registered Miu's arrival way before she spoke, by the long shadow she cast on the table. She bowed her head politely at her fellow Lioness, and as she handled the matters of hospitality she took a moment to admire the Utaku's table manners: besides their elegance, she didn't waste a single morsel of chicken, a behaviour that would help her save supplies on the march.

However, she had to fight to keep her eyebrows down as the utaku asked for something *Even stronger.* Were her parents Hida or something? Not impossible, given her stature. Well, all the better for her. If the alcohol dulled her senses, she might be able to see past her guard, and maybe the Mantis' too, if she joined her. Though Miu's words worried her a bit: what if one of them exaggerated and got sick at their feast? Their fault, of course, but not a good look for the Lion. *Well, at least that would end this party earlier...*

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Carrie
Kana's face lit up both at her now full cup, and the arrival of Miu. "Things are going excellently, Kitsu-san!" She replied cheerfully. "I was just telling Ikoma-san how good the food was!"

She didn't even have time to drink down the first cup, though, before Miu had brought something even stronger to the table, and began pouring cups. Not wanting to let good sake go to waste, she let out a spirited "Kanpai!" And threw back the first cup, the burn in her throat taking her back to her time on the isles, and especially the time out at sea.

Nodding solemnly at Miu's warning, she took the cup and raised it to her lips, drinking a bit more slowly. Her eyes widened; Kana was certainly fond of strong sake, and had the tolerance to match, but this hit like the Fury of Osano-wo. She'd have to pace herself with this one.

She moved to work on the rice, relaxing a bit with Miu's presence, and taking bigger bites as a result. "Tell me, have any of you heard anything about sumo matches or anything of the sort taking place in the city? It's been forever since I've taken in a match!"

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Bonnie
A raised eyebrow at the offer, and then production, of a stronger beverage. This would serve her well indeed. She shot back the "Himiko-grade strongest" That she had in her cup, before accepting the drink that Miu provided. Understanding it was a personal collection, Kazuko would show far greater restraint in partaking of this one, gently enticing it out of the cup and savoring the taste. Now *This* Was delightful. "I do not believe any of us faint-hearted at this table, Kitsu-san. This is truly a wonderful gift, and I thank you for sharing both it and your presence with us."

Was it a bait at the Ikoma's pride? A test to see if she would refuse a personal expression of hospitality from a fellow clan member? Or an innocuous statement? Nothing was revealed behind the impassive mask of the Ambassador. She mixed the smaller pieces of shredded off chicken in amongst her rice and began to eat, not fully ready for the next chicken yet but soon. "I am afraid I do not follow sumo personally, Moshi-san. However, my second is fond of the bariqu wrestling of our own clan, and I have heard talk of the Blessed Mountain Dojo. Utaku Masanori-san was even a participant in your clan's jiujutsu tournament. As were you, were you not?"

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Bessie
Miho's receptors tingled. She did not miss the possible taunt in the Unicorn's words, even if it was hard to appraise its truthfulness: she wished she could have heard it in her own voice, to at least judge her tone. However, she remained unfazed: many a rival had tried to bait her with her pride, but true pride was not a weakness. If anything, it was those who lacked self-confidence that let themselves be roped into stupid challenges, but she knew her worth to not be swayed by provocations.

But she could definitely handle it, if she wanted to. Just for the record. || arrogance ||

"Indeed, Miu-san. Thank you for your concern." It almost seemed like she had acquiesced to drinking, but she made no gesture to raise her cup in request. This way, she did not offend Miu's hospitality and her own reputation, but also did not risk trying her hand with the strong liquor. She didn't really like playing dumb, but it was as good as a tactic as any other.

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Madge
Miu had bowed down to all of them individually. *"I am glad you like this Utaku-sama. Do let me know if you wish for something stronger. Though I must warn you, the secret bottle for that one will cleanse you on the inside as well."* Miu had smirked. She had intended no foul play and seemed sincere. 

The female smiled at Kana. *"I am not aware of new Sumo matches sadly. However I will visit Jotomon's Dojo this upcoming week and will ask Hida-sama about it! As soon as I gain the information I'll pass it on!"* Miu clearly seemed just as excited and intrigued by Sumo as Kana had been. 

She would then bow down once more. *"Do please excuse me. Himiko has tasked me to make sure everything and everyone is having a good time. I will excuse myself towards the other tables. But if I may be direct with my speech, I would love to return to this table to share another drink with you."* Miu had awaited the answer before vanishing between the almost running servants again. Ready to check on other tables. 

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Carrie
She lit up at the chance to talk more about wrestling and jiu jitsu; she had been fully expecting a solemn, heavily formal occasion at the table, and while she wasn't about to through proper courtiesies entirely out the window, her enthusiasm and greater sense of comfort was noticeable.

The sake didn't hurt with that either.

"I was a part of it, yes!" She grinned, allowing herself a bit of pride in her accomplishments there ||Regardless how it turns out she at least won a couple rounds, so I figure this is a safe bet!||. "Utaku Masanori-san was also most impressive, Utaku Kazuko-sama. His strength and focus is something all students of the martial arts should strive towards, and a level I hope I can one day achieve," She spoke, seeming excited to recount what she had seen. "As I recall, the crowd was very receptive to seeing the display of your clan's arts as well. I recall Chiyoko-san was especially enthusiastic to see such a display," She noted, taking a small break in the conversation to take a bite of a chicken leg.

Her smile only grew at the mention of Miu looking to find sumo matches. "Excellent! Perhaps we might attend together, then?" She offered. "On the subject of the jiu jitsu tournament though, you had a most impressive showing yourself, Kitsu-san! Again, I find myself in admiration of you." Much like her compliment of Masanori before, she spoke both eagerly and sincerely. "I shan't keep you from your duties, but should you return again, I would welcome it!"

She then took a glance to Miho, who seemed to be the one at the table who was still holding back somewhat. Perhaps she was anxious? Offering a friendly smile, she decided to invite her into the discussion. "What of you, Ikoma-san? Are you a practicioner or appreciator of martial arts?"

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Bessie
She didn't lose a word of their conversation, drinking from her glass in silence. Apparently they were all in decently friendly terms with each other, maybe even friendly enough to make a lasting alliance a real possibility. Being at this table was already proving to be worth it, but of course it could not come without a cost, as now the Moshi was pulling her in the conversation.

"I appreciate and admire all forms of unarmed combat, Moshi-san, but I cannot be considered more than a novice in them. I am sure any wisdom you and Utaku-sama could provide on the matter would prove enlightening to be." True, and yet false: she was a novice indeed, but it was not out of lack of practice. Simply, her injured hand greatly limited her options, as fingers that will not always respond to your commands made most grappling arts all but inaccessible to her. She was studying ways to overcome this obstacle, such as using more her elbows and her knees, but it would not do to blatantly put down her weakness to the rest of the table. Even if a keen eye would not miss that her left hand was all but immobile whenever she could afford it.

Quickly though, her sharp eyes shifted to the Utaku. Better not let herself get too roped in: She planned to establish herself as a pleasant, but forgettable presence at the table, and see what Kazuko's cunning and Kana's sincerity would offer her. "But I am afraid you are being too modest, Utaku-sama. If you do not follow Bariqu or Sumo, how about your family's martial art? I have heard many great things about the strength of Shiotome-do. Does it hage any similarities with Moshi-san's style?"

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Bonnie
"It is quite different, Shiotome-do. Its opposite, you could even say. Unfortunately it excels in situations where one is smaller in stature than their opponent, and thus is . . . Difficult for myself to implement." The ancient art of unarmed combat that the women of the Utaku trained in was a relative mystery to the rest of the Empire. Few ever experienced the wrath of an unarmed Battle Maiden. While Kazuko was not the intended size for such combat skills, she had passed on these lessons to her servant and translator. Fuyuko was quite the martial artist, though few would ever know the full extent of her abilities. She shrugged lightly, moving her hands out of the way as a server brought a fresh chicken. "It is regrettable, but every advantage comes with a cost. To fail to acknowledge this is foolishness."

The Unicorn taisa's directness in speaking of her own limitations may have come as a surprise, but Kazuko had no concern. It the proud and the paranoid who found themselves on the path to having their weaknesses exploited.

The Moshi was beginning to loosen up. Good. Perhaps now was the opportunity to dig a little deeper into the mind of the woman. Kazuko took another drink, then turned attention to Kana. "I am surprised to hear that you participated in the event Moshi-san. As I have not been blessed with the kami's touch I cannot help but have my curiosity piqued: how does one balance the violent, physical nature of such combat with the spiritual duties as shugenja?"

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Carrie
Kana saw an opportunity to address both Miho's curiosity and Kazuko's question at the same time. Finishing off the current mouthful of chicken she have, she took another small sip of the incredibly strong liquor that Miu had poured for her earlier. "They are reconciled through the connection of body and spirit. We Moshi have always believed that to strengthen and nourish one is to strengthen and nourish the other. Such battle on honorable terms is both a fine way to hone one's body, and prepare oneself for when such measures are needed." She paused to take another bite, the Magistrate's appetite now on full display. "There is also the practical matter. We are called to peace above all else, but there are times when righteousness demands we must act. Far better to be prepared than caught unawares."

Kana kept up her cheerful demeanor, but there was a certain steel in her words as she spoke of righteousness, the sort fueled by deep piety. The Moshi Sun Sentinel school, after all, was not simply about prayers and pouring over scrolls.

"There's wisdom in what you say, about every strength coming with weakness though, Utaku-sama. Mastery takes dedication, time, and effort, and being mortal, we've only so many hours in a day to spend. One cannot be a master in all things, and when we choose what to strengthen, we choose by omission what shall be weaker."

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Bessie
Despite her best efforts, she was getting genuinely interested in the conversation. Shiotome-do seemed the perfect art, if not for Kazuko, for someone like her (even if she would obviously never learn it), and the Moshi's view on martial arts was fascinating. She had always disapproved the tendency of many shugenja and courtiers to willingly ignore the arts of war: a samurai was a samurai, and to limit yourself to a self-appointed role was to forgo part of your duties. But it was not smart to get too roped in: She sensed that the Utaku had a plan, and it was not diplomatic nor strategic to interfere with it too much.

"Your family's creed is beautiful, Moshi-san. I would love to see your skills in action, one day- in a peaceful setting, of course." She limited herself to a non-committal compliment, even if the first part looked unintentionally ominous, with her gloomy tone.

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Bonnie
"A most interesting perspective, Moshi-san. One perhaps which should be shared by more samurai within the Empire. Far too many soldiers have I seen neglect the spirit, to disappointing results." Had she not been in the Lion's den, the name Ujiaki would have passed across her tongue as an example. However, Kazuko was not foolish enough to bring him up here, let alone before the Ikoma. Still, he was simply the latest and most egregious in a long line of narrow-minded samurai who let their singularity of focus rob them of honor and in turn life.

Kazuko was about to push her agenda forward when her train of thought was derailed. A slight commotion at another table would have gone unnoticed by the Battle Maiden were it not the Mantis Ambassador herself involved in it. She would have to look into the matter further, yet it did provide the opportunity for her to ask a question which had been lingering in the back of her mind since she arrived. "Nevertheless, regardless of our drives or focus it is good to see we are still capable of putting aside whatever differences we have for occasions such as this. Though I must say I was surprised when I arrived to find members of the Emperor's Underhand here, as the invitation did not originally include their number."

She absently fiddled with the pin in her hair, the carved yellow flowers quite beautiful in the evening's rays. Another sip of the beautifully strong beverage followed, as she waited to see what insights the others might feel on the matter.

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Carrie
"Well! Should the Mantis hold another hand to hand tournament, we would welcome your attendance, Ikoma-san! The Tomodachi-maru is wlecoming to all," She noted cheerfully, then smiling brightly at Kazuko's compliment. "Truly, you do me an honor, the both of you. I would hardly consider myself the master of seeking such balance, but I certainly try my best..."

She trailed off somewhat as she started to notice a commotion over at Mai's table. Her eyes narrowed slightly, and for the briefest moment, it looked as though she was about ready to rush to her ambassador's defence, until it seemed things had calmed down. Once the moment had passed, she had realized her folly; Mai could absolutely handle herself. Still. The ambassador had been good to her, and she certainly wished to repay that should the opportunity arise.

"It is somewhat of a surprise to myself as well, Utaku-sama," She began, shifting back into the conversation. "Perhaps the clans seek to grow closer? To find a spot at the table where there once was not one is a sign of consideration, after all."

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Bessie
Miho used every bit of her discipline not to turn. First, she had swords tied down right now, so it would be up to her brethren to descale things if it came to that: second, she didn't want to draw attention on this incident. This feast was a huge risk for the Lion's reputation, and unless absolutely necessary she should act like everything was constantly under control. Besides, if the Mantis ambassador did something rash, she surely wouldn't be the one to stop her.

"It is said the Matsu do not forgive, but the Akodo do not forget," She began slowly, "And we have preferred to follow the Akodo approach. We will *Not* Forget what the Scorpion did to us and the good people of this city, but Kitsu-sama is willing to give them an opportunity to set things right. After all, we are all servants of his Imperial Majesty." 

*Besides, you have to keep your allies closer, and your enemies even closer.* With the Scorpion it was easy to determine what their role was, but for the rest of them, it was still an open question.

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Bonnie
"I see. Mixing a gesture of goodwill with the caution of being able to observe them more carefully. A wise balance." It lined up with what Kazuko knew of the Lion Ambassador's plans, and proved that the important information shared between them had not slipped out of confidence. One thing she was confident of: the Lion would not be growing closer to the Scorpion.

Now another Scorpion approached the Mantis Ambassador's table, rather abruptly yanking away the rat-masked one. A familiar build of the Scorpion Magistrate. Nodding her head once, she returned to the meal, offering Kana a refill should her cup be empty. "Well it seems that is settled. I am pleased that there was no great disturbance caused."

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Carrie
"A wise and measured approach," Kana spoke, expressing her agreement with both of the guests at the table. Miho's response had also satisfied her inquiries for the time being. While it still did pique her curiosity somewhat, there was a time and place to pursue such things.

Of course, her attention was then taken by Yuto hauling one of his clansmen away. Part of her had hoped to see her ambassador in action, but she knew a more qiiet resolution was for the best.

As quiet as being forcibly removed could be, anyways.

"As am I. It's a time for celebration, not to be at odds!" She chirped, taking the last sip of her cup before Kazuko moved to fill it once more. By now she was feeling a noticeable buzz, her mood and spirits lifted.

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Bessie
*Gods, am i about to thank a Scorpion?* For a moment, she seriously considered it, but then decided that he was only repairing his kinsmen's mistake and that she'd rather eat a raw pufferfish than lower herself to such a thing.

"Indeed. Time to celebrate." She was honestly slightly horrified by the fact the Moshi was only starting now to look buzzed, and the Utaku seemed completely unfazed. The Unicorn and the Mantis had a bit of a reputation for drinking hard, sure, but this almost made her worried for their arteries in twenty years. Well, it was starting to get awkward with her being the only one with water, she figured it was fine if she also joined their libations now. But not with *That* Drink. "Some plum wine, thanks." She asked dryly to a servant passing by, as she bowed her head to her table companions. "Forgive me for not joining you, but Shochu isn't really of my taste. Honor Miu-san's collection for me as well, please." *And do get drunk, if you're even capable of that.*

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Bonnie
Slowly working through her second chicken, Kazuko observed her table mates. The Ikoma finally broke down to drink, the Mantis just began to show some effects. Good. Everything was proceeding more or less as planned. Raising her cup once the plum wine finally arrived, the Battle Maiden would, in the most stoic manner possible, propose a toast. "To the change of seasons. May summer be as agreeable as tonight's festivities. Kanpai."

Soon summer would be upon the samurai. Normally the season of war, though Kazuko doubted there would be any with her clan this summer. The deal with the Lion had locked that front down for at least the year, and while relations with the Phoenix continued to deteriorate they would be hard-pressed to put forth an army, nor did they seem eager for war. Still, she was certain it would be busy. "Speaking of the oncoming summer, do you foresee it being a busy one? I am certain our clans all have plans, and I would not speak of such in this setting, but perhaps on a personal note. As for myself, I will be quite busy planning a wedding."

This was true. Her own wedding had been put off for far too long now, and it was time to put that matter to rest. However, she did not speak of the nature of the wedding, waiting to see if there would be a reaction from the abuzz Mantis.

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Carrie
Kana's eyes widened at the mention of plum wine. While she didn't want to completely abstain from the drink that was just refilled for her, plum wine did happen to be her *Favorite*. Had she realized that was an option, she might have limited herself to just the one cup, and then gone with that. As it stood... Maybe if she got through this next cup, she could switch to the plum wine after? Kazuko might even appreciate it. Even if right now she was displaying resilience that put her father to shame...

Of course, Kana, the hopeless romantic she was, had her eyes widen at the mention of a wedding in the summer. *Did she mean... No, not in such a public place! Unless... But that would be so fast! Unless...*

While her head swam with the possibilities of just what sort of wedding was being planned, and for whom, Kana's face still lit up. Whatever it was, unless it Temujin was being married off to the old Scorpion ambassador or something horrid like that, was worth of celebration. "Sugoiii! That's wonderful news Utaku-samaaa!" She drew out her words slightly moreso than usual, both out of joy and the shochu. "Can you share more details? Summer weddings are so wonderfuuul!"

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Bessie
*Hmpf, Summer...* She would also be busy, indeed: but not in the usual way, levying soldiers and vanquishing foes, but filing reports and politicking. It was not a problem for her, though: duty was duty, and as long as there was the chance for fame and glory it made no difference to her. 

She had just an instant to be surprised by the Utaku's following words before the Moshi blasted her left ear. Her eyes narrowed imperceptibly, and she chose to fill her mouth with wine instead of words. She didn't find Kana unpleasant, so far, but Gods, she was *Intense.* 
*Well, keep listening, will you? If the Ambassador is planning it, it must be a relevant one. Maybe her Chui...?*

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Bonnie
"Well, I doubt the wedding will be in the summer, that is far too soon." Family would have to arrive, additional funds would have to be acquired to finance the ceremony and accompanying feast. Of course this gave her the opportunity to continue her angle. Taking a satisfied bite of rice and chicken, she continued. "There are many complexities to the arrangement, particularly the political significance it holds for our clan. One wrong move from either party and it all falls apart."

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Carrie
Kana was not so drunk as to be completely oblivious to the fact that Kazuko was being coy. ||Investigation 5|| She was, however, drunk enough to keep going along. "Oooooh, so it's just the planning that's happening in the summer? I suppose that makes sense. Plus if the wedding is in the fall, you have allll the beautiful colors!" She giggled, looking down briefly at her kimono. "Like this! Don't you think a fall wedding would be beautifulll, Ikoma-san?" She asked, not wanting the poor Lion to feel left out!

Sitting back a bit, she took a big bite of a chicken leg, the fried meat tasting that much better with the buzz she had managed to get going. "Of course, I am certain the other clan involved would recognize the importance of this toooo, and assist with the plans and ame-" She paused to catch herself, and remember the correct pronunciation. "Amenities!"

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Bessie
"Indeed, fall weddings are beautiful..." Repeated the Ikoma blankly, a tinge of tiredness infiltrating her voice. She was one of those people that seemed to be drained by other people's enthusiasm rather than energised, and her room became more and more appealing every minute.

But that did not mean she was getting less vigilant: even now, she was drinking just as much as she needed to not look standoffish. Wedding would happen In fall... Made sense, but it was still a bit worrying, it might mean the Unicorn was not completely renouncing to plans of war in the summer. Well, that was only logical. Besides the Lion, they were the ones with the best shot at taking the city through a military action, though that possibility seemed distant with the Otomo rule. 

*At least she is getting drunk.* She was following closely the Mantis' progress in her inebriation, and waited patiently to see what the Unicorn had in store for her. Were Kazuko's words just idle talk? Or was she leading her somewhere? She could only wait and see. But this did not mean she had to be passive about it. Perhaps another nudge... "I apologise, Utaku-sama, Moshi-san. I just realised I did not offer you any of my drink of my choice. Would you like some? It's imported from Lion lands, I can personally attest to its quality." It was not nearly as strong as Miu's fearsome brew, but its apparent lightness could be deceiving: sweet as it was, one could down cup after cup willy-nilly before the effects got to them. Besides, at this point she had given up on seeing the Utaku get drunk, so she might as well be courteous. || Etiquette 4? Idk what stat you use for this lol ||

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Bonnie
"I would, thank you for the offer." Her cup was filled with the sweet beverage, and the taisa took a moment to savor the aroma. It brought back memories of the plum blossom viewing she had shared with the previous Lion Ambassador. It was one of the few pleasant memories she carried with her from her time in this city.

"But—" She said, eyes boring into the Mantis as she took the first sip. It tasted as delightful as it smelled. Perhaps she could arrange with Himiko to procure some for her own stores. "I did not mention anything about another clan, Moshi-san. If it were such a match I am certain I would have many questions for the prospective marital candidate. Many *Pointed* Questions."

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Carrie
"Ah! I LOVE plum wiiine! That would be wonderful, Ikoma-saan!" Kana was as bubbly as ever as she spoke, evidently having a great clan. "That's actually my verrry favorite! Not that the shochu is bad! It's good! But plum wine is just soooo good!" She eagerly awaited a cup, taking another bite of the drumstick before turning her attention once more 

"Ahhh... But a situation being so politically porcar-" She snickered, and corrected herself. "Precarious suggests another clan! Not that intraclaaaan marriages can't be... Hard... Complicated! Complicated! But usually it's the interclan marriages where it's all sensitive." She tapped her head, as if to signal she was thinking carefully about things, even in her comrpomised state. "And of course! It's important to make sure it's good for both clans, and that whoever's getting given to be married is going to be looked after and loved. It just means you care Utaku-samaaa!"

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Bessie
*The circle is closing.* Miho was acutely aware of this as she detected an allusion in the Utaku's words. But Kana did not seem to catch it, or maybe she had, but she was refusing to be unnerved by it. She almost pitied Kazuko: sometimes, even the most refined social traps could be beaten by a honest answer and a simple heart.

She poured wine for the two of them diligently, making sure both cups were *Very* Full, and sat back to wait for the end of this play. Only thing she was concerned of was the Mantis may throw up on her, but the answer to this mystery was worth the risk.

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Bonnie
"Mm." Kazuko grunted a sort of acknowledgement between bites. Annoyingly happy this one. Still there were worse problems she could have for a prospective match for one of her samurai. That could always be curbed with time. Still it was making it difficult to get an accurate read on the woman. She made a small gesture to the three of them at the table. "Interclan marriages are quite difficult, especially in families such as ours, where sex matters over status."

Moshi, Utaku, Ikoma. All viciously lineal to either man or woman. A boon to those who who were of the superior sex, but a hindrance to those not. Of course, also a challenge when it came to political negotiations. She would lay it out for Kana. "For example, imagine if one of your clan's men married into the Utaku. It would be the height of foolishness to think you would simply accept the loss of an important samurai without exacting a *Heavy* Price in return."

With that she would return to her meal for a few seconds of silence, letting the words settle. Such things would be discussed in time through official channels, but it did not hurt to put the fear of what it would cost the clan into this Magistrate. Then she would continue. "Regardless, enough about my plans. Here I asked a question and only ended up speaking about myself. Your plans for the summer surely must be interesting as well."

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Carrie
"Family's important! Reeeeeal important! That's another interclan thingyyy..." She spoke, giggling a bit. "Also clan relations, who goes where... Things like... Not like trading but... Dowries! Dowries! Oh, and can't forget status!" She nodded emphatically, pausing to take a sip of her wine. "Like... Say if a regular bushi were to marry a magistrate... Or ambassadooor! Marrying up's gotta count for something, even if the clan the samurai leaves gotta get soooomething." She flashed a grin at Kazuko, holding it just long enough to not arouse *Too* Much suspicion as to whether Kana was too drunk to catch on, or drunk enough to have the courage to bring up that point of order.

She took another sip. "Of course, it's also peace! And harmony!" She chirped. "Clans coming together for the greatwr good! Knowing we're better together than fighting each other!" She burst out in giggles, jokingly holding up her fists for a brief moment before letting them fall by her side. "One thing for sure, I'd wanna be on your side Kazuko-samaaa! I didn't think you could hold yer... Yer liquor so well!"

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Bessie
*Ahhh, I got it.* So this was the big mystery: simply, the Mantis wanted to marry a Unicorn bushi, and the Utaku wanted to make sure they got as much as possible from the deal. Honestly, she felt a little disappointed. This was a personal matter, not very important in the grand scheme of things, and she was practically allergic to gossip. Still, it *Had* Some political implications. *Could this be the start of an alliance between the Unicorn and the Mantis? It would make sense. Both of them have gaijin heritage, both of them are trading powerhouses , and both of them hate the Lion...* This was a long shot, as they say, better safe than sorry. Himiko and Katsuhiro should hear about this, just to be safe.

"Indeed, if I'll ever participate a drinking competition, I wouldn't want to cross paths with you, Utaku-sama." There was a tinge of irony in her comment. They all knew damn well that with all probability they'd face each other on the battlefield, not an izakaya. The "Greater good"...Okay, that one was funny. The only greater good were the Will of the Emperor, the prosperity of the Lion, and her own personal success (not necessarily in that order). "But I am afraid I have nothing as interesting as your story. We simply plan to keep up what we're doing here, representing the Lion and shedding light in this city's shadows. But on a minor note, I think Kitsu-sama spoke about a cuju tournament in the summer."

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Bonnie
"I see. I had the opportunity to engage in cuju with Kitsu-san. It is an interesting sport, I suppose." Somehow Kazuko knew she would get roped into this tournament in some capacity. All she had wanted to do was satiate Himiko's nagging request and never touch the game again. Instead it seemed she had sparked within her the drive to do something yet grander with the cursed thing. Unfortunate, but if it must be it must be. "What of you, Moshi-san?"

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Carrie
"Cuju tournament? Oooh, that sounds fuuuuun!" Kana slurred happily. Her experience with Cuju was watching a match when her father's ship was on shore, and some knowledge of how the game was actually played, but hearing that even the rather serious company she was in still enjoyed it had given her thoughts of participation. Summer was some time away, perhaps there was indeed time to learn more...

"Ah! Well, I was thinking of getting more tattoos, like Moshi-samaaa has!" She replied, taking a bigger drink of the plum wine than perhaps was wise. "Oh... Unless you mean like... Duty thingss..." She paused for a moment, tapping her chin. She was aware of the inebriation catching up to her, so she had to show them she was thinking deeply about the question. "Well, I suppoooose continuing to ensure the businesses around the wharves have their needs met! You know, definitely not you two because you're wise and honorable, but what a some people don't realize about the celestial order..." She leaned forward at the table, smirking slightly, as if she were disclosing some grand secret. "Is that just like the people lower got an obligation to obey and give respect, we got one to guide and protect! That's what I'm doin'! Oh, and I gotta talk with Kitsu Miu-saaaan when she comes around again about... Stuff."

Sitting back once more, she started digging in voraciously to what other chicken was there on her plate. There was no hiding her appetite at this point.

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Bessie
For a moment, she was on edge again- the Lion's treatment of lower classes was something that was often brought up by their detractors, but soon she realised Kana meant no ill will and leaned back from the table (and from her shochu-flavoured breath). *What was that about Miu-san, though? Hm, perhaps it's some shugenja thing. She would tell us if it was important anyway.*

*-wait. She played what with who?*

She decided to just accept that and move on as if that was normal. "That is very admirable of you, Moshi-san. That is a great summary of the tenet of Righteousness." She paused for a moment, and then decided to add something else to her answer. It wasn't a good look to just have a cuju tournament as their future work schedule , after all. "Ah, this reminds me we'll also keep training the heimin representatives of the various quarters, as part of our joint initiative. After all, that is also a way to guide and protect the townsfolk, if a little unorthodox." 

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Madge
And speaking of the devil Miu would appear out of thin air. The grand Lion shugenja would bow down towards all of them once more before she questioned *"Is the stronger bottle better to your liking Utaku-sama? Or shall I go rummage through my collection to find the best of the best."* Miu smiled. 

Soon the golden eyes would glance over to Miho to silently assess the progress here. If the guests were doing well and all the other stuff. In just one look it should've been told. 

Then the golden eyes would reach Kana. She would watch the Mantis. *"Moshi-sama. I wouldn't want to miss out on a drink with you due to duties. Shall we celebrate?"* The Kitsu had questioned before taking a seat. She did not feel the urge to ask a second time due to the first time already being accepted. 

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Bonnie
"Indeed, Moshi-san. There are many who forget such important cornerstones of our society. Which in turn is why our joint training is so important, Ikoma-san." Kazuko was not unaware of the unease that the initiative had caused with traditionalists. It was not a common thing for city folk to learn self defense, but then again Ryoko Owari was no common city. "The lower castes of this place have not been given such guidance and protection by their previous stewards. Without our guiding their frustrations, providing an outlet to their dissatisfaction, it would boil over at us instead."

The reappearance of Miu brought to conversation elsewhere again. Kazuko regarded her arrival with a brief nod. "Kitsu-san, this was most agreeable. However, if you are gracing this table with your presence for a drink, then I defer to whatever you as our host would prefer to drink."

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Carrie
"Wiiiisdom in those words, Utaku-samaaa," Kana nodded, perhaps a bit more exaggeratedly than she might if she were not inebriated. "I only hope that whoever the new stewards becooome, they'll do a better job! But teaching and guiding them like that's a goooood start."

She smiled brightly at the two, giggling slightly, lighting up when Miu made her return. "Kitsu-san!" She cheered, waving her over eagerly. "You know they got plum wine nooow?" She giggled once more. "I'd love to have a drink with you!"

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Bessie
Miho caught the Kitsu's eyes and closed her eyelids slowly, her way to say that everything was alright. Things were going smooth, the guests were having fun (Kana certainly was, at least), and no one had threatened to kill someone else yet. Truly the best you could expect from a interclan party.

"Of course, Miu-san. I am glad you're finally sitting and relaxing at last." Truth to be told, she was mildly concerned about Miu's arrival. She had once made the mistake of "Having a drink" With her and had woken up with her head about to split in half. If she was to lead the company, she'd probably be under the table in a couple minutes. *No matter. I am a Chui of the Lion, I can handle a couple drinks.* She told herself. 

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Madge
Miu had smiled grandly at the Utaku. Making a bottle appear out of thin air as she settled it on the table. She would then settle down next to Kana as she shook her head. *"Moshi-sama, I am very much aware of the plum wine, although something tells me you are quite fond of it?"* Miu smirked. Bowing her head at the Mantis for being warmly invited to drink. Miu had picked up the sign from Miho and seemed relieved. 

Miu then started to sign towards the Unicorn at the table. It was not a full on sentence but she made sure at least the words in the almost sentence had been correct. After all she did not spend enough time learning all the words yet. ** I hope... Drink... Will joy ** She signed carefully. Nodding her head at Kazuko as she poured her and the others a cup of the even stronger stuff. This clearly had been a bottle that Miu had cherished as it still contained a small hand written note from her mother. She did not want to separate it. 

*"It is quite the fun being a party host, truly, but to spend some time drinking is always a pleasure."* The lion chuckled as she would brush away a few of her wild manes. 

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Bonnie
Kazuko furrowed her brow as she worked through what Miu signed, before responding. *Thank you. It will.* Now for a yet stronger drink. The Battle Maiden looked forward to this indeed. "I would imagine it is quite a challenge to balance being host and providing enjoyment for oneself. I am pleased you are finding that balance, Kitsu-san."

Holding the glass in one hand, she looked expectantly at the Lions, raising an eyebrow. "I believe it appropriate that one of our hosts lead this toast. What shall we be drinking to?"

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Carrie
"Fond of it! It's my faaaaavorite!" Kana slurred, giggling immediately afterwards. At this point she was well beyond any sort of caring that Miho seemed to refuse drink like that one Kitsune, or that Kazuko might even be able to challenge Mai to a drinking contest with her resistance. She had a belly full of inordinately strong alcohol and fried chicken, she was at a party and friends were there, and life was good. 

"Um... Yeah... The Lions should lead the toasts!" She looked to Miu and Miho both with a big, happy grin..

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Bessie
*Should we?* Miho sighed internally. She hated calling toasts, she invariably ended up killing the mood. She thought about sitting out this one and letting the more seasoned Miu take over, but thinking about it, she had also been pretty passive so far. It was about time she put some effort in standing out. Fine, then.

Miho put her lame hand down, as she raised her cup slowly. This interval was all the time she needed to think about an appropriate toast. Honor? Too insipid, even for her. Unity between the clans? That's why they were here in first place. No, there were only one thing they could agree on, without masks and hypocrisy. 
"To the betterment of this city."
 
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Bonnie
A good and safe toast, and one which all good agree to. This was good. Nodding as she brought up her own cup, she did not sign her next words. Fuyuko did not need it. In classic stoic fashion, she spoke. "To the city. May we leave it a greater place than upon our arrival."

She would take a drink after the toast, about half of the liquid disappearing. Miu was not joking when she said the drink was strong, had Kazuko not been prepared she would assuredly be nearing the floor by now. Then, she waited to see if the Kitsu had a separate toast she wished to share.

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Madge
Miu would look at the toast of all the other ones and decide hers had to be better. She was the host clan. The big lion stood as she hated herself for doing it. She would brush her hairs back, only for one of the braids to snap lose and reveal almost as wild manes as Himiko would owe. She chuckled at it, shook her head and raised her glass. *"To friendships that will transcend lifetimes, to memories that will be carried on by our predecessors, to stories that will make our ancestors proud!"* She roared. Her toast had not only reached their table, as many of the other lions could be heard cheering behind her. She would bow down and sit. Taking a sip of the drink as she shivered and smiled grand. 

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Carrie
"To... What Ikoma-san, Utaku-samaaa, and Kitsu-san said! KANPAI!" Kana roared, throwing back her drink with reckless abandon, and then pounding the table. She then burst out into another round of giggles, looking to all the world like she was having the time of her life. Picking up a chicken drumstick and taking a big bite, she then pointed it towards Miu. "You Lion really know how to have a reaaaaaallly good party... I mean that! And you," She then pointed to Kazuko, "Are *Reaaaaally* Good at drinking! I'd loooove to see you and Moshi-sama in a contest! And you..." The drumstick then pointed to Miho. "You seem neat, but shyyyy. You should relaaaax! Have fun!" She then giggled once more.

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Bonnie
The Unicorn Ambassador watched the intoxicated Moshi agree to whatever anyone else was saying at this time. While the Ikoma's and hers were mirrors of each other, Miu's nearly brought a raised eyebrow to her stoic demeanor. The energy of the Kitsu woman could never be understated, and there was little doubt that she believed every word she said.

Kazuko had doubts. Friends were something she maintained among a trusted few, and their number dwindled by the year. This city was a taughtly pulled bowstring, and friendships formed here were all too easily easily broken whenever the arrows of consequence were loosed and found their mark. And the only stories that would make her ancestors proud would be those which delivered her clan the city, likely at others' cost. Such bold words for a toast were blissfully naive.

Yet Kazuko found herself joining in with the energy that swept through the tables. Tonight at least, would be a night to remember. A calm before the clans returned to their scheming ways, a time to relax and enjoy peace in the midst of conflict. Perhaps the Battle Maiden could agree to this once. She raised her cup to meet the rest, strong voice of Fuyuko echoing to join the others.

"Kanpai!"

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