Lizette
Koyama Sat behind his desk, Several scroll cases stacked on one side. The villain to defeat before heading to oversee a sparing session between his students and those of another Dojo. He'd been looking forward to it for quite some time and this was the last hurdle. He was prepared.
He was ready.

He opened the first scroll case and read it's contents...

"Hoshiko-oba, Have you heard when Jun-sama nephew was suppose to arrive?" Koyama asked, rubbing his eyes.

"Soon, Hida-sama." The elderly woman said.
"I have been told he's to arrive by months end."

"Please send him to me directly upon his arrival. This is something he should be far more equipped to handle that myself." He said putting the scroll back in its case and putting it behind him Before sighing again.

"Today is going to be a long day."

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Shirley
When Yasuki Umeo first arrived at the city, he did so discreetly. He was another samurai riding a pony and wearing nondescript traveling clothes. Clothes whose mon never seemed to be entirely visible. The trailing aromas of vice in the city meant that the people here knew when to look away. Remaining incognito for long had been an act of willpower, however. The urge to meddle was difficult to resist in a city with so many loose ends.

He settled for most of a day familiarizing himself with the main streets and market vendors. The price of plums was Up, which was a poor sign if one believed in such things. Plums and sudden bursts of insight have been linked since Shinsei... And a dearth of them was indicated in the stingy prices. This town was low on insight... But full of rich potential.

Taller than most Rokugani, though not as large as the rest of his Crab Cousins, he would have stood out in the market in normal conditions. However, this was Ryoko Owari... A city invaded by Giants. *"I might even be considered short here,*" He considered more than once. 

He loitered in the marketplace eavesdropping long enough to have a handle on the identities of the new governor, his family, and the local ambassadors. Eventually finding himself satisfied with the first broad strokes toward analyzing the local power structures, he limped his way to the Crab Embassy.

*"I wonder how tight security is, so far from the wall,"* The Auditor thought to himself as he looked at the entrance.

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Lizette
The Guard's promptly stop Umeo at the gate and ask for traveling papers. Once received they quickly grant him passage. Once inside The reception area of the embassy is decidedly utilitarian al most any that could be picked up easily was of a qualitative heft and sturdiness that suited the clans constant warlike state. Even here hundreds of miles from Kaiu Kabe the heart of the Crab still beat proudly here.

After a moment a Umeo is greeted by an elderly woman, Easily past retirement age for most samurai, but her eyes still hold a distinct sharpness, like a Shepherd to the flock of servants. Her tone gentle yet authoritative. She knew what needed to be done and her efforts were always to make sure no task went incomplete. The woman bowed deeply to the Samurai.

"Welcome Yasuki-sama to the Crab Embassy. I'm Hoshiko, head Servant and assistant to Ambassador Hida Koyama. How can I assist you?" She says, maintaining her bow.
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Shirley
Efficiency. Now that's a concept that has always been dear to the Crab. The act of soldiers and builders moving with purpose, without hesitation or wasted energy, is a sight to behold. And Umeo seems to be enjoying it as well, with that rare hint of a smile crossing his wind-weathered face. It's good to be back among his people. As for this Hoshiko woman, she seems familiar and must be quite impressive to have made a lasting impression on Umeo. Then again, servants who are sharp-eyed and dutiful are a rare breed. And good help, as the Yasuki agent thinks to himself, is as valuable as a rice scale.

Umeo instructs her to make his presence known with a simple message for the Ambassador: "Tell the Ambassador that Yasuki Umeo has arrived, and remains available to meet with him at his leisure. As I presume he will want to see me at his earliest convenience, I shall remain here until I have been summoned or dismissed." Knowing that he'll need a place to stay while he's on assignment, he adds, "I will require a residence," He says. "A plan may already be made, so I will inform you of the particulars after I meet with Hida-Sama to have a servant direct me to my new quarters or begin the arrangements to secure them."

As he waits for the servant to leave the room, Umeo takes a moment to survey his surroundings. He's always had an eye for detail, and he can't resist the urge to adjust a few ornamental objects on a nearby table. A smidge to the left, a nudge to the right, until the objects are fully symmetrical. It's a small act, but it brings him a sense of satisfaction.
Lizette
The elderly woman straightens up and smiles. "

"It's good to see you again, Yasuki-sama. Hida-sama wishes your audience immediately. Please follow me. Your lodgings will be secured before your meeting is over." Hoshiko says, leading the samurai down to the end of the building where a large set of wooden double doors capped the northern part of the building. Just before it is an office with a heavy screen. 

"Hida-sama, Yasuki Umeo-sama is here."

"Excellent, See him in." The voice boomed.

Hoshiko slides the screen open and allows Umeo to step inside the office. The Desk still held several scroll cases and behind them, A mountainous Hida shadowed over them. He looks at the man and stands.

"Good to finally meet you, Yasuki-san. I'm Hida Koyama." He says with a bow.

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Shirley
Once inside the office, the Auditor's eyes dart around the room, scanning each and every corner with trained precision. His gaze lands on the array of objects scattered around the room, ranging from scrolls to inkwells, and he notes their specific placement to maximize efficiency and reduce wasted movement. The sheer number of scrolls indicates a clear backlog of paperwork, adding to the already heavy workload of the office.

Yasuki Umeo returns the Ambassador's bow with utmost seriousness and exactitude, displaying his deep sense of respect and decorum. "Greetings Ambassador Hida Koyama-sama. I am honored to be received by you. May I humbly present to you this gift?" With a graceful movement of his left hand, he produces a pair of little green fruits with thick bumpy skins, a delicacy from the islands of the Mantis. "I grew accustomed to the taste of these bitter little pieces of joy while monitoring the shipping lanes. They really are quite delightful if paired with a dessert, though I used to squeeze one into a cup of Friendly Traveller for a reminder of home." Umeo then gently insists twice more, as is customary.

As the pleasantries come to a close, Umeo shifts the conversation to business. "I am at your service, Ambassador. What might I accomplish for you in the City of Green Walls?" His tone is polite yet firm, reflecting his dedication to the role of Auditor.

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Lizette
Koyama eyes the gifts warily at first but at the third insistence he graciously accepts the fruits. "Thank you, Yasuki-san." He says continuing to watch the merchant's eyes and actions. He mentally notes the Yasuki's discerning nature and waits a beat after his statement to begin.

"A situation has been brought to my attention. Hoshiko-san has mentioned some irregularities in our deliveries as of late. Not simply coming into the city but our shipments to the wall also are coming in lighter than expected. I would like you to ascertain the reason for this. I do not appreciate receiving letters from my dear cousin about necessary supplies coming from our deliveries being half-filled and being replaced with river stones. I am sure that this task is well within your capable hands." Koyama says, waving to Hoshiko with the tea. She carefully places the set down and begins pouring first for Koyama and then Umeo.
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Shirley
Umeo's normally stoic countenance cracks ever so slightly at the mention of River Stones. His eyebrow shoots up momentarily, a flicker of curiosity before it settles back into its usual position. "Product half-removed," He murmurs, his voice tinged with intrigue, "Weighted down with worn stones, instead of rough-hewn rocks from the ground or a cliffside. Quite peculiar." His fingers stroke his chin thoughtfully as he waits for Hoshiko to finish preparing and serving the tea.

As the steaming cup is placed before him, Yasuki Umeo offers a gracious nod of thanks to Hoshiko, acknowledging her fine work. He turns his attention back to the Ambassador, his eyes glinting with determination. "If it is within the realm of possibility," He begins, his voice carrying a hint of eagerness, "I would be most grateful for the opportunity to personally examine any letters associated with this matter. Furthermore, any ledgers containing information on the shipments would prove invaluable. I seek details on departure and arrival times, as well as the names of individuals involved in these transactions." He closes his eyes briefly, mentally constructing an office in his mind. "When providing copies of the ledgers, err on the side of excess. I am a swift reader."

With teacup still cradled in his hand, the Auditor realizes that his zeal for unraveling this enigma might be misconstrued as giving orders to his superior and the samurai with a goatee hastily offers a slight bow. "If it aligns with your desires, of course," He adds to quickly reestablish the proper decorum. 

"There is, of course, someone on the inside who is helping these thieves... If the entire group of malefactors hasn't insinuated itself into our trade routes. I doubt such width and breadth of parasitic infection, though. These types of short-sighted thieves typically revile genuine work, and those that would consider themselves their leaders will have found a comfortable place to nest. Depending on how sophisticated the operation appears once I begin digging, there remains the possibility that this is a symptom of a larger problem in the political landscape."

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Lizette
Koyama's demeanor shifts as the Yasuki begins his explanations and ~~demans~~ requests for ledgers. His rationale is sound his motivation is high. No complaints.

"Hoshiko will have the ledgers for the the Crab embassy and can give them to you once we're through here. But you won't be working alone in this. The Mantis have also been suffering of this plight as of late and a representative will be accompanying you in the investigation as well as a bodyguard. Not to sound overprotective but Jun-sama would have me bludgeoned if something happened to you in your first week here. I'll be assigning you a bodyguard while you do your investigation. I expect you'll be able to handle this." Koyama says, nodding to the merchant.
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Shirley
The former Yoriki nods, his expression tinged with a touch of nostalgia. "Not that I was ever a match for the Hida, but swinging a Tetsubo with the same vigor as before the accident has become quite the challenge. Having a capable bodyguard by my side would certainly ease my worries as I begin unraveling mysteries that do not wish to be solved." A brief, almost mischievous grin appeared at the corner of his mouth before vanishing as swiftly as it had come. "Perhaps a leisurely stroll to the Mantis Embassy is in order. I'm curious, do we have any indication of when I might meet this temporary Yojimbo? And more importantly, how constant should I anticipate their vigilance?"

After savoring a moment of the tea's warmth, Umeo leaned forward, "Is the bodyguard to also assume the role of Mantis representantive, or should I expect two samurai to be walking in my shadow? Are we aware of the identity or identities of these samurai as of yet?"

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Lizette
Koyama smirked at the Yasuki's inquisitive nature. 

"We are. You'll be protected by captain of the guard, 

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Shirley
The Auditor's lips press themselves into a thin line as he remembers the fates of some of his previous assistants. Umeo is known for his exacting methods and high standards. He made it a point to allow a disappointing student the ability to shed their dishonor through trial and hardship. Those that did quickly understood the extent to which the Yasuki prized obedience. Rarely did they need to accept the offer more than once.

"So, it seems best to treat this Yoritomo as an observer and diplomatic envoy, rather than burdening them with the expectations of a student or personal assistant," Umeo remarked, his voice reflecting a mixture of understanding and acceptance. "I shall handle this Paper Mantis with care and ensure a gentle approach throughout the duration of our assignment."

"The Yoritomo and I shall consider taking a conspicuous stroll with our Yojimbo, deliberately passing through unsavory areas to establish a clear message that we are under protection," He suggested, his eyes gleaming with strategic intent. "Once that impression is firmly established, we can allow the formidable Hida to focus on his own personal obligations until the time is ripe for us to stir the hornet's nests. Does this plan resonate with you, esteemed Ambassador, Hida-sama?"

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Bridget
A man that some mistook for an ogre from the other side of the wall, rather than someone who was meant to guard it made his way through the cramped quarters of the embassy. His each step seemed to thunder through the 6'7" Hida made himself known, opening the door the auditor would be able to see a massive figure with an untamed main of crimson hair not unlike a lions mane. As the current head of security his stature was farther enhanced by the heavy armor that covered the entirety of his form,

"Ah, you called me in to finally do something. This town is far too quiet compared to the wall, cousin. But, I'm here just to be an escort? You should just point and let me tear through it, my spear would sweep them all away."

Looking over he noticed a man to the side,

"This must be the one in need of escort, huh?"
Lizette
Koyama glares unerringly at the giant and scowls at his unannounced entrance. 

"Do not think it your place to question why this task was given to you, Daido-san. I am well aware of your talents and hopefully, Yasuki-san will not need to know the extent of your considerable prowess. This is a dangerous task and I am entrusting you with their safety and the Crab's reputation. With Yasuki-san's shrewdness, Okiku-san's pleasantries and your looming presence, success is assured. Yasuki-san, How you wish to accomplish this tasks is of your own volition. See it done."

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Shirley
Feeling the beginnings of a dismissal, the Merchant rises from his seat and bows respectfully. "Ambassador Hida-sama, I am grateful for the trust you have bestowed upon me, and I shall carry out my duties with the same unwavering tenacity that forged our Clan's formidable reputation." 

Yasuki Umeo's gaze shifts to the imposing figure who entered the room while paying little heed to rank and decorum. Stereotypes often have their roots in real people and Hida Daido appears to be the root of the Crab Clan's stereotypes. In fact, the colossus possesses such an abundance of Crab blood that he requires significantly more size to contain it all. Umeo looks up and addresses the massive bushi casually, without the excess of etiquette usually employed by the Auditor. "I am confident that your spear will see renewed use. I tend to make enemies. While you are here in the interior, I will enjoy knowing that it is your hands that will help me bring Honor to the Crab. Together, we will ensure that brigands aren't stealing food from the mouths of our soldiers and medicine from our healers' hands."

The Yasuki continues to assess the build of Hida Daido. The Bushi seemed bulky without a loss of grace, alert without nervousness, and though he was traditionally uncouth... The man was chomping at the bit to serve. "However, I admit that you may always lack a true challenger in the heartland. The strength of mere bandits will never be a match for an advanced student of the Hida schools. They're not even as useful as the stream of deformed monsters that die to allow the Empire's truest warriors to train."

His aside to the mountainous Samurai completed, Umeo turns back to the Ambassador. "Is there anything else you wish for me to know before I begin taking action? An appointed time to meet with 

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Pinkie
Okiku had received the missive from her matron earlier that day with a directive to assist the Crab with a problem they've encountered. She was to also use this opportunity to improve relations with the hardy warrior clan as best she was able. If the slim, slight woman held any reservation about attending the clan well-known for their gruff and abrasion, she made no outward show of it on her pretty, but melancholic, face - concealed beneath the thin veneer of her face paint.

The slim woman was clad in a pure white kimono, almost funerary in appearance. The only colour she allowed herself was a touch of lip paint and the rich emerald green of her obi with a single wakizashi tucked through its folds.

Inwardly she may have been pondering if she had inadvertently insulted her clan matron in the city - and this duty was to be her punishment. Whatever thoughts that might have been churning over through her mind were swished away when one of the Crab attendant scribes acknowledged her arrival at the embassy.

She offered them a formal bow in greeting, then slipped the rolled missive from her sleeve to pass it over. *"Please inform your superiors that Yoritomo Okiku has arrived from the Mantis as requested,"* She said, her voice soft, yet still held a sense of curt propriety.
Lizette
The young attendant bowed to the Mantis courtier, politely accepting the missive and taking it to an elderly woman. She looks at the missive, up to the Mantis and walks back over with a polite bow.

"Greetings, Mantis-sama. I am Hoshiko, head attendant of the embassy and personal assistant to Ambassador Hida Koyama-sama. The Ambassador is currently in a meeting with Yasuki-sama and Daido-sama. Please follow me and I'll bring you to the meeting." Hoshiko says, leading the samurai down to the end of the building where a large set of wooden double doors capped the northern part of the building. Just before it is an office with a heavy screen. 

Just outside The Ambassador's Office, a gentle rapping on the screen grabs Koyama's attention.

"Hida-sama, Mantis-sama has arrived."

Koyama looked to Umeo. "The time is now, cousin." He said with a nod. 

"Send her in."
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Pinkie
"Thank you," *Okiku said to the attendant. She stepped past Hoshiko when bid to enter, offering a bow to the room's occupants as she did so.*

"I bid you greetings," *She said, her voice soft and light.* "I am Yoritomo Okiku. My matron has requested my attendance to assist the Crab as I am able."

*She turned towards the Crab ambassador.* "Hida-Sama, I presume?" *She said.* "Your reputation precedes you. It is my hope I can be of some service to the Crab; as well as work to build a mutually beneficial relationship between our two families."
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Lizette
Koyama return a bow to the Mantis. "It is certainly my hope as well. A cousin to the clan is always welcomed here. I'm sure that your expertise will be make our foray a successful one, so allow me to introduce your companions on this task, Yasuki Umeo-san, and Hida Daido-san." He announced gesturing to the 2 men in turn. 

"Hoshiko-oba, since everyone is gathered you wish to speak on the matter at hand."

The elderly woman slides the screen open carrying an armful of scrolls She offers them to Umeo-san and bows. 

"It has been nearly a month since we've received confirmation of a shipment fully delivered to the Crab Lands. Medicines and building supplies are being replaced with river stones and millet. Our normal merchants have been unresponsive to any missives we're sent inquiring about the short shipments. Kurotsuchi is the name of the group that was transporting the shipments for the Crab. Their counting house is on the edge of the merchants district. On the scrolls is the Brand of Kurotsuchi." She says pointing towards it in the lower corner.
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Shirley
Gratefully accepting the bundle of scrolls, Yasuki Umeo bowed deeply to Hoshiko before straightening to his full height and unfurling the first one. His keen eyes, reminiscent of a hawk spotting a field mouse from high above, quickly took in the details – names, numbers, and other crucial data related to the missing shipments. The man's mind churned like a well-oiled machine, deconstructing the information and fitting the pieces into an ever-growing mental puzzle. Each figure and name was another hint, another breadcrumb to follow on the winding path toward truth. The auditor's fingers traced over the Brand of Kurotsuchi, committing its strokes and curves to memory. This symbol, he knew, would soon become a key instrument in their investigation.

He glanced up at his new companions. "Hida Daido-sama, Yoritomo Okiku-sama," He addressed them each in turn, "It appears our path will first take us to the counting-house of Kurotsuchi. Their mark is here," He indicated the symbol on the scroll, "And their silence in regards to our inquiries is more than suspect. We will start there and see where the trail leads."

Setting the scrolls aside for a moment, Umeo smoothly adjusted his kimono. Pausing to gauge their reactions, Yasuki Umeo stood silently for a moment. His stern face was softened by the lingering shadow of a smile, demonstrating his readiness to undertake this important task. The wheels of his mind were already turning, preparing strategies and contingencies for their imminent investigation. Umeo carefully tucked the scrolls into the fold of his kimono, his gaze lingering on the mark of Kurotsuchi one last time. This symbol was the first piece of their puzzle, and the auditor was keen to uncover the rest. His eyes flickered with resolve and the merest hint of anticipation.

In a final show of respect, Umeo bowed to both of his new partners before turning his attention back to Ambassador Koyama, ready to receive any last instructions. The gears of the investigation had started to move and it was time to dive into the heart of the mystery.

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Pinkie
Okiku listened in silence to the explanations of the what was occuring with the trade shipments, simply taking in the information as it was presented. Her brow furrowed ever so slightly with some perplexity at the explanations, the only indication of emotion she would allow on her face.

She had some thoughts already moving in the depths of her mind but kept them to herself when the attention was diverted back to the Ambassador. She did, however, return the bow to Umeo when it was offered.

Okiku was the outsider here, so had little intention of making waves this early in the relationship by being a nuisance with her questions, theories, and suspicions. She could indulge her curiosity later, once the official business was out of the way.
Lizette
Koyama watches Umeo and returns the bow to the assembled samurai. "You'll keep me aware of any updates and alert me of any issues. See the work done and carry the fortunes."