Sharon
There was magic in the air this time of day. 
 
It did not manifest every day, but it was present today. The gloaming was just setting in, the sky losing its last glow of rosy daylight and taking on the gentle hues of amethyst night. The Scorpion Gardens were peaceful, as they so often were, punctuated only occasionally by the roar or call of an animal in the menagerie. But, the nearer one came to the bath house, the more distant those sounds became until they faded away completely. Traversing the winding paths carried one closer to the gentle sounds of water, rustling leaves. 

Situated somewhere among the most popular bathing pools, in a small pavilion and ensconced by sheer drapes undulating in the faint breeze, was the little Scorpion songstress. Her songs were soft, unobtrusive, just loud enough to be heard but not so much as to disrupt one's relaxation. The music spoke of calm evenings, moonlight, and contentment. ||Perform 4—Pipa||

This was an important duty to her. If she could provide but some small measure of enjoyment and comfort to those visiting, it meant she fulfilled one of her duties, and as it was well known, duty, to a Scorpion, was everything. 

||
Nicole
There was not just magic in the air, but good fortune and the promise of prosperity to come.

The trip to Ryoko Owari heading north along the River of Gold was pleasant enough, save when they passed the Howling Fields. But that was eased when the boat came alongside Shiro no Shosuro, and the scent of the myriad flowers drifted through the air to calm the mind and reinvigorate the spirit.

It was necessary, because disembarking at Ryoko Owari Toshi had been a devil of a time. Docking, unloading, ensuring everything was in order and was going to be handed off to the right personnel was important. The exchange of koku, however, was something that Yoritomo Sadao was not present for, it was of course beneath of a samurai's station. Instead, he had made his way to this bathhouse, in an effort to get away from noises and smells and to have his clothing properly laundered, and himself cleansed.

After changing into the modest bathing attire that was provided, the young fellow would find his way to an unoccupied section. A bucket and grit were provided for him to scrub off the sweat and grime that always accompanied sailing.

It seemed, for the moment, that he had little reaction to the music. He seemed more intent on getting himself properly bathed before allowing time for enjoyment.
Sharon
Biased opinion of the musician aside, Yoritomo would find no finer establishment. The bathing robes were of the softest linen, the abrasive ground fine, and the water of perfect temperature, regardless as to what one's preference may be. Servants moved about silently and efficiently, ready to see to the needs of visitors whether they required refreshment or therapeutic or grooming attentions. 

Keen ears heard the splashing of someone bathing, but Kotori let her song continue to its natural end. Behind the obscuring curtains, the little Scorpion plucked on string quietly, making a minute adjustment to a tuning peg and further trying to determine if the sounds were originating from the men's or women's section. It sounded like the men's side. She waited still under those sounds ceased and it seemed probable the visitor was approaching the pools.

"Good evening, oji-sama. Shall I continue to play for you, or would you prefer silence? I am also skilled in conversation, should you rather." Her voice was soft and sweet, pleasing to the ear. Her performance was not limited merely to her instrument.

"If you require anything at all, please tell one of the *Sansuke* And We shall see it done."

||
Nicole
The necessities were completed before it was time for relaxation. Proper scrubbing, hair washing, combing out, and shaving. All of it was done in a slow, ritualistic fashion. Sadao had to look his best, dressed or undressed.

When the voice came from behind the curtains, such tones were not surprising. However, the greeting was. "Please, -san will do, okusan." His voice was clear and full, and deeper than one would expect from somebody of his particular countenance. "But it has been some time since I was privy to such music. Please continue, though I would converse as well, if you would do either or both."

This wasn't a house where he could let his *On* Down, and worse, he was in a vulnerable spot and trusting only in the safety that the Scorpion would provide. He would not let that daunt him, however. May as well enjoy what the establishment had to offer.

"It is known throughout the land that the Shosuro grow the most pleasant and beautiful flowers, save the chrysanthemum. Do you have any oils or extracts this one may use for upkeep?"
Sharon
"Of course, oji—" There was just a slight pause, and a playful, teasing note in her voice as she finished, "—*San.*" 

The moment the request had been made, one of the numerous attendants vanished into a small store room, returning in short order with a box of small glass bottles and vials. Each was carefully labeled and contained a different perfume oil of the highest grade, from the more feminine scents of peony and rose to the more masculine of cedarwood and patchouli and everything in between. 

As evening settled in and stars began to prick through the velvet sky, a veritable army of servants made rounds to light the dozens of lanterns throughout the garden. A warm but unobstrusive glow soon illuminated the bath house grounds, adding to the soothing atmosphere.

Nimble fingers moved across the strings of her pipa, beginning a new song. This song conjured up night-blooming flowers, a secret world awakening only when the mundanity of daily existence had been lulled to sleep. It was the laughter found among friends over fine wine, the sweet teasing whisper in one's ear from a lover.

"Are you a resident of Our fair city, oji-san, or are you a traveler?" 

||
Nicole
Behind the curtains, Sadao's conversational companion could not see him smile. In due course, though, as scents and oils were brought out, he began to apply them to himself, and to his very long, just-cleaned hair, combing it out as well to allow the oils to permeate and soften his hair.

He didn't look up as the stars began to sparkle in the sky, but he was impressed at just how swift and efficient the personnel were in lighting the lanterns. Such discipline was to be commended. Perhaps he'd even write about it.

The song, the scents, the steam, the atmosphere... It was more than enough to put one off one's edge. But this was the sort of thing he'd been trained for. His home could likely rival this Scorpion establishment, but he wouldn't say so until he knew it was true, or if the time was right. He was used to thick air and steam.

"Ahh, this one comes from far away, okusan. I take it you are a resident, or the patrons of this place would have earned their reputation to have you play for them. What talented personage is this one conversing with?"
Roxana
A heavily accented voice drifted out through the bathhouse, singing it's own melody as a tall and slim Utaku prepared himself for bathing.

He'd woken this morning and noticed stubble, prompting him to ask himself how long it has been since he shaved. After all, he wasn't a complete stranger to facial hair after his time in Medinaat Al-Salaam, but it grew in slowly and even stubble took some time to mar his boyish features.

"I just want to, I just want to know
If you're going to, if you want to stay
I just have to, I just have to know
I couldn't have it any other way."

Brushing the filth before he stepped out to enter the bathhouse

"My Lady, follow me down to the ripti-"

Oh.

He wasn't alone.

Coughing briefly, the Unicorn shugenja gave an apologetic cough as he entered the water and above.

"-Sama." He said sheepishly to the other man, a thick accent, lighter hair and darker skin on the wiry young man betraying him as a Unicorn. "My apologies for disturbing you. Please ignore this one."
Nicole
Music, conversation, and now song? This was looking to be a most exciting evening after all. Sadao was, at least, happy to have a modesty cloth. He waved a hand dismissively at the humble apology.

"Kinishinaide, samurai-san," He said evenly, the comfortable setting, casual demeanor, and the fact that he literally let his hair down allowing for a more casual exchange in his mind. "There is nothing to forgive, and room for many." He'd let their mysterious musician offer the house's services and all. It wasn't *His* Duty to tell the newcomer to enjoy what the bathhouse had to offer.

He also bore a light brown hue to his skin, being from the Islands of Silk and Spice after all. He kept combing his hair, as there was so much, and he wanted to make sure the scents would saturate.
Roxana
"Oh Sorry. This one is Utaku Takeda. Shugenja in the Iuchi Traditions." Takeda bowed, but hesitated first, perhaps mistakenly wondering whether the other man's brown skin made him a Unicorn and this susceptible to a handshake.

The Shugenja lowered himself into the water slowly, his nostrils flaring in a slight sigh as he did so.

"Ashkurukum ealaa khidmatikum 'arwah alma' almubaraka" He remarked softly with some degree of reverence, leaning back and closing his eyes.

*Oh this is nice...*
Nicole
Already in a sitting position for the purposes of soaking, all Sadao could do was give a slight bow in response to the Utaku fellow. 

"This one is Yoritomo Sadao, and is honored to be in the presence of one that speaks with the kami."

He went quiet after the fellow started making weird noises, though, and was happy to just listen to the ambient music.
Sharon
"Please allow me to welcome you to Ryoko Owari Toshi, oji-san. I am newly arrived myself." The feminine voice was a pleasant compliment to the smooth notes of song, the musician adjusting the volume of voice or instrument for maximum efficiency and appeal. 

The little Scorpion had just opened her mouth to give the artfully spoken visitor her name when something else arrested her attentions. While she could see only the vaguest shadows and shapes through the thin curtains, Kotori heard another voice sounding from the bath house. There was something familiar about the sound of it, a voice she had heard before yet could not immediately place. And she was certain song had been present the first time she had heard it, though its volume then had been much softer, almost carried on the exhale of breath. She did not quite catch his first name, but a surname was the more important anyway.

"It is my pleasure to welcome you to this bathhouse, Utaku-sama." She continued to play, keeping the tune low and gentle so not to disrupt their conversation, mulling over the name of the newcomer as she did.

Utaku-sama...

...Wait, Utaku-sama? Utaku Takeda! 

A smile rose unbidden to her lips. He had been a pleasant fellow during their encounters, and to know he was her pleased her greatly, albeit secretly. Unable to resist the urge of just a little playful teasing, she decided to withhold her name, at least for now. 

"If either of Our esteemed guests should desire tea or sake, please only say the word. As you see, We pride ourselves on seeing to the comfort of Our guests." 

One song slipped seamlessly into another. For now, she would wait and listen. 

||
Roxana
"A pleasure to meet you Yoritomo-sama." The Unicorn gave the Mantis a smile and a nod, speaking softly. "I hear it is good luck to see a Mantis out on the water and I thank you for your company."

Relaxing, Takeda wondered how long it had been since he had done the traditional Rokugani bath like this.

It was then another voice pierced the veil of his thoughts and, had anyone been paying attention, they would have seen the Shugenja jump just a little in surprise.

*Right. Scorpion baths. Of course we aren't alone.*

"Thank you for the hospitality, Oh..." Takeda paused.

He hadn't got a name. And the idea of a curtain to obscure meant that the voice had no intention of telling.

And it would be rude to ask.

"Lady of the Bathhouse-sama?" He ventured, resigned to the fact he probably got that wrong and at least one Scorpion or two would let him know about it.
Sharon
*Lady of the Bathhouse-sama?*

The girlish smile and silent giggle that comment earned were lovely by almost any standard, but were not considered to be very proper. Thankfully Kotori was well shielded behind the concealing veils of the pavilion. Another song began, a lighthearted, almost frolicking bit of fun of a summer day spent along the shore. 

"Forgive my jest by withholding my name, Utaku-sama, Yoritomo-san. Your humble performer is Bayushi Kotori. It is my pleasure to serve you." There was no malice in her voice, no mockery. 

"Were you also out traveling, Utaku-sama?"

||
Nicole
The Mantis had now met a Unicorn and a Scorpion within these boundaries. All was as it should be in the world. Finishing combing his hair, he began to pull it up, and tied it off into a thick topknot with some that hung just past the nape of his neck.

"Fortunes bless our meetings, then, minna-san. A privilege and a pleasure both." There was a pause as the Yoritomo gave a little thought, before saying, "This late in the day, tea would be unwise. Sake would be welcome, please." A little something to wind down with, instead of caffeinate.

"Might this one dare as to inquire the local rumors or, heavens forbid, gossip? This one does not wish to impugn the honor of any samurai, oh no, but one always hears things."
Roxana
What followed the Lady of the Bathhouse revealing herself as Kotori was the sound of a man drowning on dry land.

Takeda went as red as the crimson of the Scorpions mon.

*Oh. I am never living this down*

Thank everything that was holy for the Mantis, who gave him at least a brief respite to recenter himself.

"Ah, unfortunately not my expertise Yoritomo-sama. I seem to be busy either at the bazaar or in the dojo."
Sharon
The *Sansuke* Which served at the baths could well have been trained as shinobi, so quick and silent were they in the execution of their tasks.

Supposing, of course, shinobi actually existed. 

Such was the case of the attendant who appeared now with a small tray, upon which sat a glazed sake carafe and two matching cup. The young man placed the tray at the edge of the bathing pool, bowing deeply before vanishing back into the gloaming.

"As I am but recently arrived in the city, I can offer little in the way of hearsay, Yoritomo-san. There was a rather impressive and equally well attended sparring match between the Magistrate of my clan, and one Shinjo Temujin. Utaku Takeda-sama was the... Is judge the correct term? I know nothing of the martial arts, I confess. A thousand apologies for my ignorance." 

Thankfully, the little Scorpion had an impressive repertoire of songs. Hearing that the Mantis wished for calm, she adapted her music quickly but smoothly. Gentle, soothing, relaxing. Slow, mellow notes.

||
Nicole
No rumors? What a disappointment. Sadao's gossip gland will have to stay dormant. The Mantis nodded his head ever-so-slightly in regard to the servant, offering respect appropriate to someone of the lower classes.

Carefully, he poured a cup for the Utaku, and one for himself. He examined the bottle a moment later, studying the pottery, and moreso, the glaze. He dealt in lacquer, and he *Knew* Lacquer. He wanted to admire the work.

"One can hear all sorts of things at the bazaar. Do the Utaku accompany the Ide in the merchant districts?" A dangerous question, with implications that skirt the line of propriety for a samurai being seen engaging in commerce.

Fortunately for the Utaku though, the Yoritomo brightened at the prospect of another subject. "A sparring match? What sort was it? Shinai? Sumai? On horses?" He lifted a hand to his mouth to cover his expression, but his voice could not hide his excitement.
Sharon
The glaze was of excellent quality, given that this was an item likely to see frequent use. No expense had been spared, even for something so seemingly inconsequential as a sake set. 

Kotori smiled to herself upon hearing the excitement in Sadao's voice. This newcomer was apparently savvy to commerce at least in some degree, and took an interest in combat. She could not help but wonder if his physique matched his deep voice. Surely, he must be a tall, brawny specimen like the other men of his clan she had encountered. Granted, that was not a huge number, but it just had to be the case. 

For now, she simply sat in her veiled cloister and played softly, closing her eyes.

||
Roxana
"Ah no." The Utaku gave a smile "I'm more involved on the spiritual side of things there. The Ide made it very clear that spirits running off with the merchants goods would be bad news."

*Or, y'know, a Djinn* A shiver ran up the spine of the Unicorn despite the heat around him.

"Kenjutsu spar. Just a friendly between two samurai. Bayushi-sama has the right of it, though I will confess to not wanting to step into the role again."

"And sadly, not on horses. Would that we had the fields do such a thing. Or even a camel."
Nicole
"Ah, the spiritual side of things. May Daikoku keep the coffers full, and Inari bless good harvests for all." He bowed his head in polite reverence for a moment, before gesturing to the sake. "Please join this one, Utaku-san. Before it gets cold, surely. Unless Bayushi-san would care to join us?"

How *Scandalous!*

"Ah, kenjutsu is well and good. Who won, might I ask?" He wondered, before he looked puzzled for a moment. "That word. What was that word?" By the Kami, what was a camel?
Sharon
Kotori almost, *Almost* Missed a note. Though she was well accustomed to thinly veiled, lecherous looks from men, *Hearing* Such brazen flirtations still had an effect on her. A deep flush spread over her porcelain face and down the column of her throat; even her ears had turned pink. 

"Yoritomo-san is very generous, and I thank him for the kindness of his invitation. It would be improper at this moment, however, as I am here to see to your comfort and entertainment." 

Somehow, she managed to get all of that out without stammering. Her voice betrayed only the tiniest fraction of her surprise. How thankful she was that Sadao had chosen to ask about a 'camel.' 

||
Roxana
"You know, a camel." Takeda said, as if that explained everything. "Like a horse. Except a longer neck, a badder attitude, and a hump on its back?"

*There were bound to be some in the bazaar. And surely the Unicorn left one in the Gardens.* He thought.

"Ah, don't worry about it." He finally said, frowning before he changed the subject. "As for who won, I may have been the judge, but left that bit to the participants. I am just glad the crowd didn't find my role too distasteful."

Takeda gave a look at the curtain trying to see if he could judge a reaction.

At the mention of Sake, the Shugenja's vision did snap back. "Only if you insist Yoritomo-sama." The Unicorn paddled over "However, I must insist, in turn, that you join me for some Zythum when the time comes." The Young Unicorn paused and then grinned "Perhaps if and when your duties allow, Bayushi-sama, I would love to show you the Zythum too."
Nicole
"Bayushi-san," Sadao's voice was like honey on a summer morning, "It would only be improper if we agreed that it would be. We would be happy to find cloths or robes that we may converse without the Second Sin clouding our minds." To think that *Desire* Would affect such noble samurai! Sadao wouldn't have it. 

"We are comfortable. We are entertained. This one most humbly offers to let the matter lie if Bayushi-san truly does not wish to join us. Sumimasen."

He gestured to the bottle of sake as if the Scorpion could see it. "A third cup could be brought with a whisper, with how talented the servants are here. Utaku-san, against the grain of propriety, I must insist. This is a fortuitous night and the sake must be shared."

To drive the point home, he made sure the cups were full.
Sharon
"I believe I saw a camel in the bazaar. What a strange creature it was! Though I confess, Utaku-sama, I know not what 'zythum' is." 

When the song came to an end, the little Scorpion did not begin another. After such an invitation, how could she rightly refuse? Placing her pipa upon the small cushion designed for just that purpose and plucking up a small veil, she stood. Before, bathers in the pool would have seen an amorphous silhouette with a vaguely feminine profile. A small, white hand pushed aside the pavilion drapes, and she stepped out like a celestial maiden emerging from a painting. 

An opaque red veil embroidered with gold was draped over her head and shoulders, the edge coming down to just above her painted mouth, just as red and just a luscious. The collar on her kimono was open wide, barely hugging the contours of her shoulders and showing the full span of delicate collarbones—a styling choice purposefully made to draw the eye to her slender throat and flawless skin. Her movements were elegant and deliberate in their languid execution, not least because her vision was impaired by the veil.

Bayushi Kotori descended the few low steps to come to one of the more distant edges of the pool. Just as Sadao had predicted, the efficient staff had already deposited for her a small stool and an additional sake set. 

"It pleases me then to make your acquaintance face to face, as it were." She smiled sweetly in the direction of the two men, kneeling down. Sake was poured into two more cups, and the tray placed into the water; the tiniest push sent it floating over towards them. 

"Have the baths thus met your expectations?"

||
Nicole
The Scorpion brought up this strange... Thing ago. An ill-tempered, deformed horse? "I cannot, and think for my ease of mind, will not, imagine such a beast. How Ningen-do could create such a creature I do not know."

Lifting up his cup, he... Well, let's just face it, he *Stared.* She was more than beautiful. She was positively a knockout. He wasn't expecting her to be so small, but then again...

He bowed his head, not too low as he was holding a cup, and in a bathing pool. "This one cannot resist the relaxing songs and atmosphere the Scorpion have provided. I am wise enough, however, to *Not* Expect things from the Scorpion. For their greatest strength is the unexpected." A mysterious compliment, but a compliment nevertheless.

If she could see well enough past her veil, he was physically fit, but not as tall or as broad or as mighty-looking as his deep voice may otherwise imply. However, he did have a mark of *Something* Happening in his life, an old scar against the left side of his chin.
Roxana
*Damn...* The word didn't *Quite* Leave Takeda's mouth, but it got very very close as Kotori made her appearance.

"You remind me of the stories of the beautiful Ningyo by the waters edge, Bayushi-sama. Though the stories failed to do the sight before me any justice." The Unicorn said instead, giving a smile at the Scorpion. 

However, the Unicorn was met with a snap realization - a prodding at the back of his mind; that despite what he knew of Medinaat bath culture with some bathhouses being as open as open could be between relations between man and women, this was Rokugan.

And the Scorpion and Unicorn would do anything to one-up each other in the present climate. Including rumours of impropriety at their establishments.

*Damn.* An inward curse went through his head.

"Perhaps just one drink before I must depart. This was only a short stay to purify the ash one gets from dealing with the spirits of fire." Takeda said, moving over to the cup "However, I must insist in joining me for some Zythum some time. Its like Sake except earthier, you'd love it."

"Did we want a toast for this round, or just Gempai?"
Sharon
While it may not have been entirely proper for Kotori to be sitting near the Mantis and Unicorn, it was one such an occasion in which being a Scorpion was beneficial. When one is assumed to be scandalous, doing something scandal worthy was hardly remarkable. Still, she wasn't one to completely disregard propriety and manners, and so the veil remained in place. Unfortunately, she could see only a few feet beyond her own. Yoritomo's physique would have to be admired and appreciated another day.

Before she rose again, she trailed her fingertips through the warm waters. It was soothing enough on her tired digits that she uttered a sigh. 

*By the Fortunes, this feels good.*

Smiling, the little Scorpion got to her feet and shook the water off her hand before settling onto the stool. "I hope at least you have learned you can expect the utmost hospitality while here." 

"And Utaku-sama, your flatter me." The teasing note crept back in her voice, though in her woman's heart, she *Was* Truly flattered by his compliment. It seemed more genuine than most, and it had a certain poetic charm to it. "I would be delighted to try this 'zythrum.' From what land does it come?"

||
Nicole
"Zaithoom... It is an interesting dance of the tongue, Utaku-san," Sadao said before lifting his cup up. "Kampai!" He offered, in a generic toast to the two of them. "To the hospitality of the Scorpion, may their generosity bear fortune."

Then a drink! Then a sigh. Then a cup set down. Then he leaned against the edge of the bathing pool, truly unable to take his eyes off of Kotori. Who could blame him?
Roxana
"The Burning Sands. It is a liquor made from fermented grains, but much different to rice due to the differing climate." The Unicorn responded and the corrected "Zythum."

"Gempai" The Kampai of the Unicorn had a strange accent to it, and he winced as he downed the drink. *Kami that was a lot sweeter than I expected.*

The cup was placed back carefully, as Takeda made particular care to put it back precisely as he had received it.

"With that, I imagine I shall be off or the guards at the embassy shall be asked after me again." Takeda could have almost pouted. "I find myself humbled by the generosity of the Mantis, and the hospitality of the Scorpion." 

"A pleasure to meet you Yoritomo-sama, may the wind ever be at your back." The Unicorn bowed with a smile and then he turned to Kotori, bowing again "And Bayushi-sama, I believe the wind should still be at your back, so in the words of Mekhem: mamlakati liqada' alwaqt maeak."

The grin on his face as he said so was halfway between a tease and a dare for her to find out.

"Minna-sama, enjoy your evenings." And he was off, humming that tune again to himself once he *Thought* He was out of earshot.
Sharon
"May the Fortunes continue to smile upon you, Utaku-sama. I shall have to be more mindful of delaying your returns in the evenings." Umable to resist a bit of teasing in return, Kotori smiled in Takeda's direction, inclining her head politely as he departed.

Mamalatikiqa... Mamlakata qilna... What in the *World* Had he just said? For a split second, she wondered if she ought to be offended. But, given what she knew of Takeda—which, granted, was not all that much—it seemed unlikely he would have said something rude intentionally. 

 Her smile returned again as she caught the faint notes of his humming vanishing into the distance. 

*No, it is impossible he meant something offensive.*

Outwardly alone now with her guest, Kotori glanced towards the water, attempting to discern his location by observing the direction from which the ripples originated. 

"Is there anything else that I may offer you, Yoritomo-san?"

"I understand your clan is well-traveled. I should love to hear of your exploits, sometime." 

||
Nicole
"Zythum," Said Sadao, correct at last. "It is clear that I must practice such a word. Ahh, what a lovely expression, and one well-received by someone who has sailed." He bowed his head as the Unicorn made his statement in that other language, and made his way out.

He gently pushed the tray that held the cups and sake before him, letting it float here and there before he looked in the direction of Kotori. "Would you like to hear something exciting, something beautiful, or something irrefutably true?"

"As for what you may offer me, I suppose I may get out of this bath and dress before I become like a persimmon that's been in the sun too long." Still, for propriety's sake he had to maintain modesty clothes and whatnot, and with the help of attendants should be dressed again in no time at all.
Sharon
"I should be glad to hear anything you so wish to tell me." Smiling, she got to her feet.

"The attendants will assist you, and then show you to another place which I hope you shall find equally comfortable." 

After the Mantis was dressed, one of the stealthy *Sansuke* Would guide him to another structure not far removed from the central bathhouse. At a glance, the exterior resembled a small manor, ringed by a covered verandah; however, the majority of rain doors had been removed to allow for a cross breeze to blow through the otherwise open floor plan. Zabuton and cushioned arm rests lay arranged about a low table made of some dark wood, perhaps black walnut. Lanterns and a few brass oil lamps cast a warm, luxurious glow about the interior. Clearly, this location had been chosen with care; the views offered were all pleasing to the eye, whether one was seated to admire a small bamboo grove, a rock garden, or a burbling stream. 

The little Scorpion stood patiently in one of the few shadowed spaces remaining in the airy building, having decided she would wait until Yoritomo had entered before revealing herself.

A little show of theatrics seemed expected of her clan, and she would not be remiss in delivering.

||
Nicole
Sadao had made sure everything was in its proper place before he let himself get guided into the veranda. He took a moment to take it all in. Studying the craftsmanship, the quality. The *Extravagance.* The Scorpion spared no expense, it was clear.

This was going to be a fortuitous assignment after all.

He'd set down on a cushion, in a comfortable but appropriate position, before he took in a breath.

"Which season is Bayushi-san's favorite season?" He asked, his deep voice level and curious, a precursor to whatever story he was about to tell.
Sharon
"Autumn," Came the answer.

Kotori stepped forward with a rustling of silk and a slight sway of hips. She barely made a sound as she moved; perhaps all Scorpion were trained to walk about silently. Once beside him, she bowed deeply.
 
"Allow me to greet you more properly, Yoritomo-san." At last, she removed the veil, finally exposing the entirety of her face. The dangling ornaments on one of her many hair pins jingled softly as the silk brushed across it, the gold of the decoration shining as brightly as her eyes. Kotori smiled at him.

"Do you care for more sake, Yoritomo-san, or perhaps a calming herbal tea?"

||
Nicole
"The season of changing colors. I will find a memory, and share it." His own long hair was carefully fallen over his shoulders and back, and it was clear he treated it as well as any Crane or Scorpion would. Perhaps even better, with the sea-salt air from his home. His most notable decoration was a golden netsuke hanging from his obi, in the shape of a golden stag beetle.

He bowed his head and shut his eyes briefly, before matching her gaze after her offer. "I am satisfied for now, Bayushi-san. To be in the company of such a talented musician, and the inspiration for many artisans' dreams, is more than enough." Laying it on a little thick, but he was being polite... And just a touch playful, with that deep voice of his.

"Ah, yes. It is said that Rokugan is at its best in autumn. The leaves turn red. The air cools down to comfort. The second growing season is in full swing before the winter makes the leaves shrivel and the fruits rest. My home, the Islands of Silk and Spice, it is one of the most dangerous seasons. It is the season... Of *Storms. Only a fool stands in the path of a storm."* The Clan motto. "You live aside a river, Bayushi-san. How high have you seen it rise?"
Sharon
Oh, but he *Was* Handsome. He was slimmer than she'd expected based on the deep tenor of his voice, but, well... That hardly mattered when one had a face like that. And his hair was enough to incite envy from almost any woman, even Kotori. Her gaze lingered upon him for perhaps a moment longer than was proper, though she expected he did not mind. This man knew exactly how beautiful he was. He simply *Had* To. 

She knelt on a cushion to his side, slender hands folded modestly in her lap. "Indeed. The rich colors of turning leaves, the smell of the coming cold, the quickening approach of night... I find it all beautiful."

"And to be truthful, I have yet to see this river rise at all. I know a flood crest must be a terrible thing, but I have not experienced such a thing. Storms too, can be terrifying." Her eyes flicked up towards his, "...But I must confess, I find the raw fury to be thrilling as well."

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Nicole
He lifted a hand, hiding a smile *Except* For one corner of his mouth, an intentional revelation under the guise of good manners. Beautiful, and clever. "There is beauty in all the seasons, and at home, early to mid spring is my favorite. But we're talking of autumn, during the storm season. They can be terrifying and thrilling. Just as any good story of heroes or battles should be. I know much of this city is placed near a cliff's edge." He gave a pause, for dramatic effect and anticipation.

"Can you imagine ocean waves higher than that cliff? Suitengu's strength pulls the water away by much distance, exposing marine animals, coral, and plants. Then it comes rising... A wave of a size I cannot calculate. It travels, crashing against cliffs and flooding much of the land." He reached out his arm, to let his sleeve come to a proper resting position against his knee as he continued, stoic and serious. Storms were, after all, serious business.

"My fellows there, we have learned to see when these changes come. We do what we can to bring everybody inland or to higher ground as swiftly as possible. But the ocean's hunger always catches some. Now you know a secret," He said, his last sentence coming in a hushed voice.

"Now you know why many houses or buildings near the coasts are built on rises or on poles with stairs. To stay above the water when tsunami and typhoons come."
Sharon
"I quiver to imagine such a sight. The thought of being crushed beneath something so immense, so thoroughly *Consuming*..." She hugged herself for half a moment, trembling lashes lowered demurely. It was not an entirely affected gesture, either; such thoughts of enormous, obliterating waves *Were* Things worthy of terror. However, those thoughts were perhaps not the only ones floating about in her mind. 

"I have never seen the sea, so I must live vicariously through the words of others." Kotori raised her eyes again, meeting his gaze only briefly before it fell to his mouth. Or maybe the scar on his chin. Who could say?

"I shall view such structures and tempests both with a newfound respect, Yoritomo-san. This humble one thanks you for the education."

"Please, will you tell me of spring in your home." She leaned forward just slightly in her eagerness to hear more, foxlike eyes shining with curiosity.

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Nicole
"Please, Bayushi-san. If you continue to refer to yourself so politely, this one must follow in turn. Is Bayushi-san not comfortable?" A light, courtly tease, and a suggestion to relax and be a touch more informal.

"The sea... The ocean. Have you swam in the river? Or in a lake? Have you fished? The blue and green of the ocean can entrance and calm as much as it can crush and pull you down in a fury. The journeys from the Island of Silk and Spice always come with danger, but we would have it no other way. The Mantis are as we are *Because* We dare."

He gave a small, proud smile, looking for but a moment at the Scorpion's exposed shoulder and collar bone, then his eyes went back to her painted lips.

"I cannot hope to suggest that the flowers on the islands compare to the colors and scents in the Shosuro lands. For their gardens are the envy of everywhere... But tell me."

He leaned forward just a little bit, getting *Dangerously* Close to impropriety, but still within the bounds of good taste. "Have you had furikake on your rice? Ever dipped yakitori in a paste made of yuzu and chili peppers? You are a vaunted Scorpion personagee, so these are likely. But they can be found nowhere else than in my homeland, during the growing seasons."

He looked like he had more to say, but wanted to let her take in his words.
Sharon
"I find it safer to err on the side of decorum with such honored guests." Her posture did relax then, just slightly. A soft sighing breath, a slight roll of her shoulders. "But, as I seek to make Our guests comfortable, I shall be more at ease hence forth." 

"I must confess that I cannot swim, Yoritomo-san, let alone having done so in river." She could not help but be enthralled by his words, daring to imagine the exact things of which he spoke so poetically. While she had never been afforded the freedom to do such innocent things as swim or even run through a field, she could still appreciate the beauty of it. 

"Perhaps it is in my blood, though I cannot but admire those who dare," The look of pride suited him, Kotori noted silently.

When he leaned in closer, it is likely he caught a faint, spicy sweet smell, like fine chai and vanilla. The scent of flowers was well and good, but she had been told once long ago that the warmth of cinnamon suited her better. She tilted her head ever so slightly to indicate she was listening closely, giving him full attention.

"You describe culinary delights with the skill of an artist." Kotori turned her head back to face him more directly, though she did not yet draw back. "Though the way you describe you home is so much more than that. One can almost feel the sea mist upon their face when you speak of it, as easily as one can see the sapphire waters." 

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Nicole
"Would that I could whisper to the kami of air and paint a picture from my mind of such memories," He said almost wistfully. "Especially if you have never swam. Perhaps I may teach you, some day? If there is an appropriate pond, or... Well, here wouldn't be appropriate." He shook *That* Thought away from his mind with a wave of his hand. This was not the time to be imagining anybody else in bathing attire.

"You smell like cinnamon. The Kitsune, our Clan friends, grow many of those trees in their forest. Ahhh, yes, that's where I was going with this. With the spring. I am certain that your home has your own blends, especially with your variety of flowers. How is Scorpion honey?" He wondered. "Because the honey from the Mantis lands, whether the forests and fields of the Kitsune to the Yoritomo islands, all the way up to the north, the Moshi's coastal and mountain flowers produce so many different kinds of honey! But my islands are tropical. I am sure you have had peaches and persimmons, and persimmons are a favorite. But have you ever had..."

Then he began to list, touching his fingers as he did so. "Ichigo? Yuzu? Kabosu? Miyazaki mangoes, or the rarest of them all, the Yubari King melon?"

He knew his fruits. He knew his *Exports.* He knew their appeal, their uses, their rarity, and just how much they can make the eyes of samurai who have never had them brighten.
Sharon
"Should the opportunity present itself, I should like to learn. Though I worry I may prove a troublesome student." 

"I have always been fond of the scent of cinnamon. Something to stimulate the senses, no? Roses and freesia are lovely, but I find them a bit too overpowering."

And then began the talk of honey.

This was an entirely unexpected development, but not one that she did not enjoy. When she straightened back up, she hid a momentary smile behind her sleeve but upon remembering her resolve to be less formal, lowered her hand again. 

"To my limited understanding, honey production in the Scorpion lands must be executed with extreme care. I imagine with so many flowers in your homeland, there must be a number of which are poisonous. Even in this area, apiarists must take great caution, due to the poppies." She chose not to elaborate any further upon this. Certainly, Sadao was clever enough to infer her meaning. "The few times I have had honey produced on the Island of Silk and Spice, it is certainly some of the finest I have ever tasted." 

"I enjoy most fruits, though peaches and persimmons are especial favorites of mine as well. That first bite, when the juices hit the tongue is divine." She smiled again at the thought. Now that he'd mentioned it, she was already looking forward to peach season. 

"You are very knowledgeable, Yoritomo-san, and passionate about it as well. It's a wonderful thing to encounter."

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Nicole
"Cinnamon has a wonderful smell. Its taste though," His smile was a little thin, "Well, there are other flavors to my palate. Ah, yes, the Scorpion medicinal flowers and herbs. There are no greater holistic medical practitioners in the Empire. Any others would require their priests." Was he talking down his own Clan to butter up the Scorpion? Of course, he was just singing the praises of his own.

"Honey is such a delight, as a food and a medicine. I see I have found another persimmon fan. I do hope that we can become friends here, Bayushi-san. Though this is my first evening and we've only just met, you have a pull about you. Like a garden unto yourself, delicate, soft, and beautiful."

That was as far as he'd go for flirting, for now, though. "But alas, you have reminded me. In my knowledge of my homeland and what comes from it, I am made aware that I have duties to attend to. To know a thing is a samurai's duty, and my duty compels me to head elsewhere, now that I am properly cleansed."

With slow, calculated movements, he stood up. Reaching for a teal ribbon, he pulled up his hair into a high tail, allowing it to sway when he would walk. He bowed, giving more than proper respect to the Scorpion.

"This one humbly thanks Bayushi-sama for her hospitality, the discipline of her servants, the beauty of her music, and the joy of her company. You are a credit to your Clan." With that, he'd bid her good night, slowly making his way to retrieve his belongings, and head to his meetings.

Time to get to work.
Sharon
"Our medicines certainly have their uses, but they are not the panacea we wish them to be." Was that... A note of sadness in her voice? The bright light in her eyes dimmed for the space of a heartbeat before a pleasant expression once again settled on her face.

"I think there is little that should please me more than counting you among my friends, Yoritomo-sama." She smiled up at him, even having the good grace to blush. 

"The Fortunes have graced me this evening by bringing you here and enabling our paths to cross." Seeing him rise, she too climbed to her feet. "May they continue to smile upon you."

Everything the man did was enticing, even tying up his hair. The little Scorpion bowed slowly to him, deeply. 

"We hope that you shall grace Us again with your patronage and your company, Yoritomo-sama. We bid you a good evening."

The moment he was out of earshot, Kotori let out a long, shuddering breath. She, too, had much now to do.

This new Mantis could be a powerful ally or a dangerous foe, and she was determined to make sure Yoritomo Sadao remained in the former camp.

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