Glenn
A day had passed since Sanumo received Yuto's letter. After much deliberation, he had left his own schedule unaltered and put in some time for Iemon to go out on the town for a necessary, but boring appointment.

An appointment that didn't exist.

You could never be fully certain when it came to letters, but between the colors present, the thought-provoking ending, and the seemingly thoughtless refusal to visit the Phoenix on their own grounds, something was amiss.

And they were about to find out what.

Having found a suitable moment earlier in the day, Sanumo had urged Iemon privately to leave at the appointed time, but to completely ignore the required task. Instead, Sanumo would leave around thirty minutes later, meet up with Iemon at a non-descript storefront, and explain himself.

And that was what had happened, save that the Karo had arrived carrying two parcels. He bowed woodenly to his superior, the objects getting in the way somewhat.

"I am sorry about the delay, Shiba Iemon-sama. I can provide ample explanation, if you'll please come with me. »

||
Albert
Iemon quirked his eyebrow slightly at the two parcels, returning the bow, and then glanced around the nearby storefront. His eyes breezed over the small baubles and saw nothing of necessity or interest to him, especially in light of the current curiosity presented to him.

"While I can't say that I was particularly attached to the assigned appointment, deviation is not something that I have come to expect from you, Asako Sanumo-san. The ample explanation you promise will be welcome." Though the words themselves were seemingly blunt, Iemon could not keep a note of amusement from his words, denoting the trust he had in his Karo. There was undoubtedly a good reason for whatever course he had set, all he had to do was await the reasoning. 

With a nod, he encouraged Sanumo to lead on.

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Glenn
Leaving with Iemon in tow, he made sure to speak only when he thought it most likely that the two wouldn't be overheard.

« I received a letter from the Scorpion yesterday. While the meaning of letters is always up for debate because of various interpretations of color and symbolism, the one that seems most likely to me in this case is, 'danger of unclear form.' They very pointedly ignored our request to host them and instead invited us to the palace, which is where we are en route to at this very moment. They urged discretion and good judgement, hence the... Deviation, as you put it. I don't know the danger and so I am treating everything as a potential hazard. »

The Karo was doing his best to act naturally, briskly walking along his set course and keeping his mind on what he could control, rather than what he couldn't.

« One of these parcels is our gift to our hosts. The other is a cover. If anyone asks, you were unable to fulfill your appointment because of a double-booking. Rather than cause a scene over it, you went to the market and bought yourself a new Shogi board. That parcel is twice-wrapped with differing appearances and I was seen leaving our embassy with it. Before we return, I suggest you remove the outermost layer of wrapping so as to maintain believability. »

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Albert
Iemon's face became an impassive mask as he nodded wordlessly to Sanumo's analysis of everything being a potential hazard. He kept pace easily enough, hand coming to rest in a casual manner on his katana's sheath. 

"It seems you have considered every contingency in this. If we are to take the warning seriously, at the barest minimum such measures will, I presume, be respected by our soon-to-be hosts to abide by such indications." He masked his slight unease with a veneer of humor. Sanumo had always impressed him with his thoroughness, but to see his capabilities applied to a course of action that seemed to border on the fanciful tales of espionage pillow-books? 

*How I have underestimated him!* 

"Do we know who we are meeting with?" He asked mildly, letting his eyes continue to rove casually at the stalls they passed to better add to his appearance of nonchalance.

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Glenn
« If not all contingencies, let us hope that I have covered enough. »

The plan had been put together on short notice and with imperfect information. Whether it would hold up under these conditions remained to be seen.

He led Iemon on a somewhat circuitous path, wanting to make it unclear where they finally intended to go for as long as was reasonable.

« If the letter is accurate, the Ambassador himself. I'm unsure what other company may be present. » The writing had seemed to intimate that Yuto would join them, but he was already dealing with many assumptions. One more seemed ill-advised.

Sanumo seemed content to linger in silence, or at least in the dull mindlessness of idle chatter, as they travelled to the Shosuro Palace. The distraction helped to ease his nerves.

Arriving outside, he deferred to Iemon to introduce them to the approaching ashigaru.

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Albert
Iemon nodded, engaging in idle small talk to add to the facade of ease. He noted their path as being indirect, but gradually taking them closer to the Shosuro Palace. Only occasionally did he let his glance rove behind them, unsure if he would notice anyone following them. 

Finally, they arrived. Iemon gave a small bow to the ashigaru. "Greetings. Ambassador Shiba Iemon and Karo Asako Sanumo of the Phoenix Clan to visit with the esteemed Scorpion Ambassador." Iemon allowed his words to take on a self-assured tone of command appropriate for addressing someone of lower station without being denigrating.

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Basil
When the two Phoenix arrived, they'd not only be greeted by an Ashigaru, but the Magistrate of the Scorpion himself. Yuto awaited their meeting with much anticipation, standing tall just before the gates into their courtyard. He showed much respect to the Phoenix, believing those of such status should be greeted by someone of importance—not just a mere soldier. Besides, news of this meeting was to be within solid confines, and this was a show of that. He bowed deeply to greet the two. 

"Welcome! Shiba-Sama, Asako-Sama. It gladdens me to see that you two have arrived safely. Forgive the abruptness of the occasion, and of course standing before you in my poor condition." 

The man boasted injuries from his last expedition. They were still healing, while he could still manage his duties, it was noticeable. One eye was covered in a bandage and an arm within a wrapped cast, besides these additions the Bayushi wore traditional scorpion attire. Still wanting to look appropriate for the occasion. Another notable sign of trust, of course it could be assumed due to his injuries Yuto wouldn't carry it, but he was without his Katana. Merely carrying his Wakizashi on the right hip. 

"And of course as apology for not accepting the invitation to your embassy, I've prepared gifts that'll be given to you later. Please, come in." 

He'd have guided them into the desolate palace, having arranged this beforehand with his Ambassador, accommodations were prepared. Having Chinatsu, his servant inform Komori and Tomura of their arrival. Their dining hall would be open and free for them to discuss several topics, and most importantly it's where Shiba Iemon would come face to face with Shosuro Komori. While Yuto pushed for their union, he could only do so much. Hoping such efforts could bear fruit here. 

"I appreciate your prudence in coming here, I'd like to introduce you to my Ambassador, Shosuro Komori, and our diplomatic face, Bayushi Tomura. It is my hope that we'll find ourselves more acquainted moving forward."

He sat down waiting for everyone to settle in and brace themselves. Having servants pour them all the choice of freshly brewed Tea or Sake. 

||
Roger
Tomura didn't really enter the room as much as slide in, silently entering and walking to where the rest where seated, stopping to bow to the two Phoenix. He was wearing the robes of a minor courtier, crimson and black in the colors of his clan, his face was completely covered by a Kitsune Mask, as black as midnight.

"Shiba-sama, I am most honored to finally meet you,"He said bowing to the ambassador, then he turned and bowed to Sanumo, "Asako-san, it is wonderful to see you once more." Then he turned to the space between them in order to bow to both, "Bayushi Tomura, a humble servant of the Scorpion, I hope this will be the start of many pleasant conversations between us." He lifted himself then silently walked to a chair, sitting down.
||

"Indeed. Let us enjoy each other's company." A deep voice accompanied to a man of proud bearing echoed through the dining chamber. An aging samurai in black, crimson and gold patterned robes walked into the room nodding to his subordinates and bowing to the phoenix emissaries. 

"An honor to meet you both, dear cousins. I am Shosuro Komori, new Scorpion clan ambassador to Ryoko Owari Toshi."
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Albert
Iemon's face quickly showed his concern for the visible injuries Yuto sported. "Why, Magistrate Bayushi Yuto-san! I hope that your wounds are not overly burdensome. If there is anything we can offer to speed your healing, please feel free to ask." He says, quick to offer a bow in return. "No need for apologies, it is a privilege to meet with you once again"

Following Yuto inside, he offered his katana for sharpening before entering, following to the offered seats in the dining hall.

Iemon rose to bow in response to Tomura's introduction. "It is an honor to meet you as well, Bayushi-san." His eyes lingered on his Kitsune mask. *Impressive to manage such detail on midnight black materials.* He spared a slight glance to Sanumo at Tomura's words to him. "I hope the same, of course."

The final arrival elicited an equal bow from the Phoenix ambassador. "An honor to meet you, Ambassador Shosuro-sama. I am Shiba Iemon, and I am privileged to be your counterpart from the Phoenix clan. Congratulations on your new appointment!"

He reached down, picking up to offer one of the parcels brought with the Phoenix delegation. After the customary refusals, it would be found to contain a bottle of sake. "I have had the privilege of receiving a small sampling from a favorite brewery from my home city of Nikesake. This is the first bottle from that order and I would be honored to have the first taste go to you and your fellow Scorpion samurai."

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Glenn
Whereas Iemon showed his concern for Yuto's injuries openly, Sanumo only let it show through his gaze - his brow knitting slightly in worry for the Magistrate. 

« We appreciate your apology, Bayushi Yuto-san, even if it seems unwarranted in light of... Recent developments. »

Accepting the offer of tea, Sanumo rose to bow to Tomura while it was poured for him. The bow was slightly less than what the Scorpion courtier had offered, if only because he was a Karo and Tomura an envoy. He saw no point in making a fuss over the pedantics of honorifics at this time.

« Bayushi-san. It is a fine day to share with one another. » He would have seated himself then, had it not been for the arrival of Komori. Sanumo bowed deeply, but allowed Iemon to speak for the both of them in greeting and entreating with the man of higher station. For now, at least.

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Basil
He was appreciative of Iemons offer, and relieved his apology was accepted by the two. Yuto certainly dodged an incoming arrow despite his clear breaches of etiquette. With Tomura and Komori entering the room, a feeling of satisfaction came across the man's lips. The two were more seasoned diplomats and suited for these kind of meetings, finally connecting them with the Phoenix would be a pleasure. He was happy to see their pleasant greetings and congratulations. 

Then there of course was the offer of sake, to which Yuto placed a palm over his own cup, before the servant could fill it. In truth, the Magistrates protective nature instinctively kicked in. Mostly due to not knowing who prepared such a gift, still unaware if they were compromised or not in coming here. 
"Quite an evocative offering to share something from your home, I'd certainly honored to share it with you, Shiba-sama." 

While he of course wouldn't protest Komori or Tomura partaking, Yuto would have made sure he'd be the first to do so. Offering up his cup for the Sake to be poured, the Magistrate was shocked by the delightful taste. Not being one for sake, this would be a pleasant surprise. 
"It has been many nights since we last conferred, it gladdens me to see you both well and enthusiastic for this meeting. There is an ardent feeling present within the room that I hope we all share."

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Roger
Komori was the Ambassador, Yuto the Magistrate, for the moment Tomura elected to speak when spoken too and let the higher ups have their talk, he would know when he was needed. For now, he simply sipped on the sake, a satisfied smile forming on his face at the taste of the vintage. 
||

Komori smiled warmly at the phoenix as the drink was poured and raised his cup. "To fruitful conversation and kinship." 

He waited a moment before taking a drink of the delightful brew. A look of pleasant surprise marks his face. "A light sweetness that is pleasant entirely. Masterful brew. Thank you, Shiba-sama." 

With a practiced concern, Komori looked over to his bandaged magistrate. "I'm glad you both have come at such serendipitous timing. I had been meaning to reach out to you about a few matters regarding the city and some concerning spiritual matters but those can wait for the moment. Yuto- I believe you invited the ambassador and his advisor. What is it you wished to discuss?"
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Albert
Iemon bowed at the complimentary words. "Sake is best shared in good company. I am grateful that this arrived in time for our sudden meeting." He gave a thankful glance to Sanumo for his choice of gift that he had packaged. *He does know me well enough that it is just what I would have picked to bring.*

He set the bottle down in the middle of the table, turning his attention to Yuto. Finding out the reason for such an unannounced visit had roused his curiosity.

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Basil
With them all settling in and enjoying the company of one another, Yuto was quite pleased. When asked of the topic of discussion, the Magistrate was unsure of bearing the bad news to the phoenix. Shifting a gaze over to Tomura, it was all to their courtier that this information was received, and not in a pleasant way.. 

"Yes, Shosuro-sama, first I'd like to discuss the anonymity of our meeting. I believe Asako-san took the necessary precautions to discreetly arrive here without unwanted ears listening." He nodded to the Karo, then gestures towards Tomura. Without him they'd have not known this information. 

"We've reason to suspect intelligence belonging to the Crane housed in the walls of your embassy. Hence why I ordered Chinatsu-san to hand the letter directly to Asako-san. It was with utmost importance we make you aware without them catching wind." He spoke softly, not entirely sure how they'd take this information. Not well the Magistrate imagined. 

"It's thanks to Bayushi Tomura-san, that we have this information. Our relations with the Crane are uncertain, as are their intentions. Moving forward with our endeavors I'd like us all to exercise caution. Until more is known." 

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Glenn
Sanumo stiffened, a sense of cold washing over him. Slowly, he produced his fan and used it to cover most of his face, stopping just below his eyes. When he spoke, it was with a more distant, detached-feeling tone.

« I think it best that this is explained to us, **Immediately.** It sounds an awful lot like you are suggesting that my predecessor or I have failed terribly. »

It wasn't unfathomable that such a thing could be true, but it could prove disasterous for the little niche he had carved out for himself.

And **That** Was unacceptable.

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Roger
"I was called to an unexpected meeting with Doji-sama, after it turned out my invitation to their embassy was not formally approved... During this meeting she made mention that the Scorpion seem to be searching for allies, with a book of the Tao, an edition quite popular in your libraries, was out in an almost display." He explained, "I notified Rokugo-san that night."
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Albert
Iemon's face betrayed little as he nodded at the implications here. Not that he would blame Sanumo for something like this, but he knew the younger man well enough that *He* Would take it as a personal failing that intelligence was leaked by someone on their staff.

He considered the words of Tomura carefully. "So it seems we are not the only ones having unexpected meetings. Whose approval for your invitation was lacking?" He began with, sipping from the offered tea their hosts had given.

"I would hope that the Tao of Shinsei was more popular than just in *Our* Libraries, though its origin in the handiwork of Kami Shiba-sama is undoubted. Likewise, our previous visit had not been made in secret, so it is not impossible to surmise their assumption from that alone. What else gave you indication that they had procured information from within our walls? Certain words quoted?"

The line of questioning was not so much to hope to reveal some slip from the Crane, Iemon was certain they would have been careful to assess their choices of words carefully. This was more to see the thought process of this Scorpion diplomat and weigh his judgment against Iemon's own.

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Roger
Tomura nodded.

"I had begun a passing aquaintince with the Crane known as Daidoji Adohiro, my hope was to foster a weak link within ther Clan, but it already prove breaking, he invited me into their embassy and offered to become *My yojimbo*, overhearing this was the ambassador, who scolded him and took me to her office as I had been meaning to introduce myself as clan emissary... Of course I meant no offence to the Phoenix by visiting them first, by my hope was to get a feel of the Unicorn, Crane, and Lion early due to their... Prejudice." He chuckled, "However, she used the meeting to flex and play head games, the type of tao would have been one that the halls of your Embassy just by looking at it, and her gift to me Kintsugi set, to comment on the state of the Scorpion, it was very much a 'show rather then tell' threat." He turned to Yuto, "I must admit though, I am unsure where the Mole is placed, but it is clear that such an operative stands against all our intrests." 
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Basil
Their reactions were expected, sensing a genuineness coming from both the Karo and Ambassador. Due to it being Tomuras experience, he let the young diplomat say what was needed. It made sense for the Ambassador to test their judgement, how could they truly know if the Phoenix possessed a mole? Whilst their previous meeting wasn't in particular a secret, it was still discreetly arranged. 

"While our previous meeting was indeed not secret, Myself and Asako-san met by coincidence, there's no possibility for anyone outside both our respective clans to know." 

He hoped that fact would bring things around. Sure letters were made and returned, but Chinatsu was a trusted servant whom took record of who she passed the letters off to. As Tomura looked to him, unsure of where exactly a mole would be placed, Yuto would be able to provide resolve. 

"We've assets in place to prevent cracks in our walls, the same assets I intend to propose to you. If there is cracks dormant in your Embassy, we'll be more than happy to identify them, and have them sealed shut. Unlike the Crane, we've approached you respectively with our intentions. We believed this information should be delivered urgently, and discreetly." 

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Glenn
Sanumo's fan stayed in place, his grip upon it rigid and unforgiving. « This seems awfully... Speculative so far. » His gaze flicked between the Scorpion present.

But he was at least, begrudgingly, willing to entertain the idea. « Let's say that, hypothetically, we were to assume you are correct and act in accordance with your best judgement. What would these assets be and what would you require of us? That is not to mention the fate of the purported offender, which I believe we should take into our own hands. »

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Albert
"Daidoji Adohiro... There is a name I would not mind being forgotten in the annals of Rokugan's history." The youth had presented himself with such audacious temerity in his own Embassy, it was no wonder Iemon hadn't considered visiting the Crane a high priority after such a display.

"No offense is taken, Bayushi-san, learning the lay of the political landscape is perfectly understandable." The mention of Kintsugi so soon after discussing it with Kitsu Miu was almost *Too* Coincidental.

"Truly, the thought of the Crane operating in such a way is disquieting to say the least. What about the book made its intended message so plain to you?"

Iemon nodded at Sanumo's assessment, adding nothing else but awaiting the Scorpions' reply to his Karo's inquiries.

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Roger
The fox mask seemed to stare blankly at the samurai gathered in the room and simply shrugged.

"It is what I would have done," He simply said, "I have no proof, no certain words spoken, what I have is a gut feeling and the voice in my head saying, 'why would I do the exact same thing in there position'." He sipped his drink, "Perhaps I am simply seeing daggers in the shadows, but then again, maybe it's not mere shadows, however I would ask the room to humor me."

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Basil
There was an uncertainty and tension within the air, one Yuto knew all too well. To the phoenix, they could have been seen as speculative, paranoid, and perhaps lacking critical judgement. Yet the scorpion couldn't be more certain, for the Crane were simply their reflection in the water. Relying upon slick tongues and deft messages, using underhanded tactics and petty maneuvers to gain advantage. Learning of their meddling and proving it to their cousins would be quite the play, then there was of course the intent. 

Had Lady Doji simply been pulling the Scorpions sleeve? The phoenix were their cousin clan, while they knew the scorpion sought allies, there's the potential their brothers in warm red would be a first pick. Though Yuto refused to give them that much credit and wit, in truth the scorpion were taking a gamble, but when were they not? Responding in plain confidence, the Magistrate spoke up. 

"The crane have their ways of being adroit and shrewd with their words, messages, and intentions. You may believe our 'speculative' story to be specious, but we can all agree that action will bring clarity to the veil casted by this situation, yes?" 

Hesitation and uncertainty this late would only make them lose credibility, and make them look like fools. Placing a finger on the rim of his cup, he trailed the edge around it. Until dipping his finger into the Sake. Looking back up to Iemon and Sanumo, his general expression never changed. Even when his hand reached up to take off the crimson silk that made up his mask. 

Yuto allowed his face to be seen, the two had seen it during their last meeting. Letting the silk fall and coat over his fingers, his eyes trailed back up, hoping to have their attention. "Even though we cannot see the knife beneath the shroud of silk, the shape the fabric takes will reveal the blades presence." 

This analogy was so they'd understand where the scorpion stood. While the Cranes dishonorable nature was not plain, here were the signs foretelling of what was to come. 

"All I want is to offer a chance to assure your safety, expose the encumbrances, and prove our earnest intention to fortify positive relationships between our two noble clans. The invitation extended to dine at your embassy remains, does it not?" 

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Glenn
Faint shifting could be heard as the Karo adjusted how he was seated. The pair had a point that the Crane were known for their subtlety and attention to detail; how else would the Kakita ever live up to their claims of perfection.

It would also explain why the Crane had seemed to leave the Phoenix to their own devices for so long. They wouldn't need formal meetings with an informal informant. Negligence wasn't the Crane way, not when it came to diplomacy.

That thought resonated with him and he spoke upon it's realization. « Unless Shiba-sama seeks to say otherwise, that is the case, yes. » He looked to Iemon sidelong, his opinion ultimately being the most important among their delegation.

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Albert
Iemon had calmed his initial response to Tomura's shrug, his memory still sharp in recalling the previous Scorpion governor's debacle. *But it is not fair to judge them by an older incident that they were not directly a part of. We offered the same courtesy to the Unicorn, it's only just to extend it here to the Scorpion as well.*

Then Yuto had spoken, and Iemon found himself *Impressed* By the sincerity he presented. Not that Yuto had shown himself contrary to this in their interactions, by any means. But his sincere desire to seek to expose a potential threat to the Phoenix was firmly impressed upon Iemon. That it would benefit the Scorpion to expose that threat was inconsequential, especially since it was an honestly declared intention on his part. 

He offered a slight bow in acknowledgment of the words and gesture of Yuto. "Indeed, the invitation stands. Your Sincerity does you credit, Bayushi-san, you shall have your chance."

He turned to Tomura and offered a small bow as well. "Apologies, it is not out of a lack of wishing to humor you that I questioned your words. All I sought was as much clarity as I could to see what you had seen."

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Basil
Had his words made an impact? One had to be careful with their words, for they could be a convincing muse, or a deter. The Phoenix and Scorpion both sought for an auspicious future beside one another, and the last thing they needed were another clan meddling in their affairs. While there were still seeds of doubt, it would be the Scorpions place to remove them and plant roots to foster trust. 

"There's no need to apologize for your prudent nature, Shiba-sama, it is an admirable attribute. Impetuosity will only lead to missteps." 

Being given their chance, the Bayushi would ensure it'd not go to waste. Exuding confidence was important, but there were still many things to consider. The crane could have wanted to stir something between their clans, make them think there's something—where there is nothing. 

"Our meeting now should not be compromised, your knowledge of these agents should be unknown to the Crane. This is key to drawing them out. Moving forward, be weary of where suspicion is displayed, and who you unveil it to." 

Yuto would have bowed once more in apology, knowing that there were hopes to establish connections. Though it seemed they had larger priorities. "Forgive me, I know there is mutual aspirations to achieve between our two clans. I fully intend to pursue them with you, but corroborating the safety of you and all your **Loyalty** Subordinates is our first priority." 

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Glenn
The Karo set his fan down, but found himself unconsciously crossing his arms afterwards. His face unobscured, it became clear that he had adopted a stony countenance; a necessary precaution with how he was feeling right now.

He took a deep breath and let it out slowly through his nose. "Your concern is noted and appreciated, both of you. Rest assured that I will do my best to guide the Phoenix along a path of *Shared* Unity."

 To anyone who might know what to look for, a building pressure was being kept at bay behind the courtier's façade. Something under his direct purview had been called into question and, rightfully or not, it was yet **Another** Problem that sought to divide the Phoenix from their erstwhile allies. He was *Angry* And was already formulating how best to channel that into a suitable solution.

"What a poor bird we would be if we did not shed a few feathers from time to time." The sentence was uttered with a calmness that failed to reach his heart.

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Basil
There was certainly tension in the air, and a LOT of it was coming from Sanumo. Yuto couldn't fault the man however, believing he himself failed. However, he did not fail at all. The scorpion would not allow this to proceed, it was best to calm their tensions. 

"I hope to put your stress at ease, Asako-san. As a Magistrate I'm trained to indulge in observance of suspicious activity, deciphering lies, and uncovering uncanny truths. I'm sure with our combined efforts we'll achieve favorable results." 

Yuto would have gotten parchment and ink from Chinatsu. "It can be easy to gain information from a mere servant. To them, offerings of money, clothes, meals, or threats are motivation to comply. If you are comfortable, I have some questions I'd like answered. This will allow us to isolate the potential agents."

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Glenn
Sanumo massaged the bridge of his nose. "I agree that the best way to resolve this is in tandem with you." He gauged his words briefly. "My frustrations are with these circumstances, specifically - not your airing of them."

Leaning forward in his seat at the mention of questions, he huffed, but acquiesced. "Very well, Bayushi Yuto-san. You may begin your inquisition." His eyes flicked to the Magistrate's paper as he nearly asked for writing utensils of his own. What stayed his hand was the knowledge that he couldn't bring whatever he wrote back to the embassy without risking operational security. 

*What a damnable pain this whole affair is turning out to be.*

||
Basil
His smile became pleasant as Yuto was reassured by the Phoenix, though he of course knew the scorpion weren't the problem. However, did they fail, there would be another one. Now that he had ink and material to write upon, one arm reached for the silk sleeve to slightly tug it back. Assuring no ink stained his Haori. His eyes lifted back up to face Sanumo. First he'd inquire. 

"Besides the respective members of your clan, do you house anyone else within the embassy? Guests? Servants? Anyone that wouldn't be there under normal circumstances? Of course your willingness to disclose this information is entirely up to you." 

He was ready to get details and pinpoint whomever the contact for the Crane was. Yuto as a suspicion seeking man regularly let his mind run, allowing one's openness to find truth. 

"Does a Samurai of your keep directly conduct the organization of servants within the embassy or is there an installed manager among the heimin themselves?" Yuto would try to ask key questions. Hoping the two phoenix would catch on to wherever the cracks could be in their halls. 

"Typically, information can be found and received by callous gossip, some may not even know they're giving said information to the contact. I hope these questions I'm raising can raise precision in luring this agent out. How we approach this endeavor will be important."

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Glenn
Sanumo shook his head, his hair lightly swishing. "No guests beyond our own clansmen. Our servants, however, are all housed on-site."

*The better to keep them from such actions as these.*

"Directly beneath myself are two heimin managers, Shin and Setsu. The former was, until recently, orchestrating the efforts of our ashigaru during the transition between one Captain of the Guard and the next. He no longer has this duty, but still holds some esteem for having stepped up in a time of need. The latter is an old man who has been with the embassy far longer than myself and focuses on orchestrating embassy maintenance, hospitality, and the like."

"Our new Captain of the Guard is still settling in, so I'm not certain how Shin's role can or will change, but Setsu organizes the servants into delegated groups as needed to keep up with anything Iemon or I pass his way."

The Karo didn't feel it was out of line to offer this information. None of it seemed terribly difficult to obtain, especially not in the heart of once-Scorpion territory. He did, however, dislike how readily his mind picked apart what he knew about these heimin to try and dissect what motives they could possibly have. He **Liked** Them, but would have to make sure they were handled appropriately if they had truly sunk so low.

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Basil
As the man spoke he wrote down the relevant information accordingly. If none other clan delegates were within the embassy, it was likely a servant. Had the crane employed a head servant than everything transpiring in that embassy was theirs to know. They were certainly suspects, but the crane were subtle with their intentions and actions. Perhaps someone of little significance, who knew which questions to ask and how to keep their head down. 

"Shin and Setsu, do they regulate all of the Heimins task for the Clan Samurai? How often do you or other members of the Phoenix commune with the lesser servants?" 

He kept a steady hand, waiting to draw up more but wanted to help Sanumo understand. Perhaps more information could allow him to pinpoint and speculate. 

"Often an agent doesn't bother to place their ears upon doors or pour tea while you discuss affairs. They'll receive information from other servants from casual gossip by asking the right questions, and often finding where this intel regulates among them within the embassy." 

Typically the kitchen or gardens would do the trick, even whispers within the bedrooms. Judging from the intelligence received by Sanumo, they'd likely have to be careful in approaching the two head servants. 

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Glenn
"That pair do regulate all of the heimin's tasks, yes. My personal policy is to only speak to those beneath them in cases of discipline, clarification, or urgency, but no mechanism stops other Phoenix from doing otherwise."

"That said... If the key indicator you have is the book you mentioned you had on display, Setsu's team would have easier, more plausible access to our tomes." He frowned.

Dissecting his own staff as though they were all potential enemies felt foreign, with the exception of the Isawa, of course. Though it felt wrong, it needed to be done.

"We recently acquired a Phoenix to act as caretaker of our libraries, among other things. I can speak to her and our Captain of the Guard, also recently arrived, about what they may have observed. Both are new enough fixtures that they **Shouldn't** Be part of the problem and their perspectives are novel and insightful."

"And, barring any success there, we can keep our ears open where tongues are prone to waggle." While the servants frequented most of the embassy out of necessity, all within their walls were prone to visiting the temple. It seemed a likely place for information to circulate amidst the various rites.

It seemed outwardly like he had a plan and, while not fully confident it would work, was ready to see it through.

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Albert
Iemon had sat thoughtfully, allowing the others to discuss while he considered all that had been brought forwards in the meeting, and only occasionally sipping at the tea before him. His appetite was firmly suppressed by the weight of this decision, but Sanumo had handled the peculiarities of the embassy's staff discussion admirably. *Indeed, better than I would have.* He thought to himself. 

The charge of the Scorpion that there was a spy operating in their embassy could, he supposed, be something that reflected negatively on both of the Phoenix here. Sanumo's candid and measured response, though clearly tense, showed his reliability in the face of such stress. 

"That does assume the book was an intentional clue, rather than a feint. In dueling with both words and blades, the Crane are well known for their clever cuts."

He turned to Yuto. "Speaking to your duty as a magistrate, what will you do when you catch this individual with their testimony?" No question of whether Yuto thought it was possible, the ambassador's face had become an impassive stone mask as he considered the further ripples of this stone in the pond of the City of Lies. The unspoken acknowledgment of what 'receiving' of testimony often meant in Rokugan hung in the air, a difficult part of the judicial system. One that Iemon was glad not to have direct responsibility for.

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Basil
Yuto and Sanumo went back and forth quite coherently. Much useful was provided by the Phoenix and written down by the Scorpion. Knowing the two Heimin managed and conducted the lower servants, there was likely some room for an agent to sneak in. Looking back up to the karo after he finished writing, Yuto had a content look. While the Phoenix were certain to find this situation negative and of low moral, the scorpions were here to aid. 

"Thank you, Asako-san, this information will be useful." 

It was then that Shiba Iemon spoke up. He was listening and ruminating over the discussion. Judging by the man's words, he too could see the traces of a Cranes game. Nodding in agreement, he would wait patiently for the ambassador to continue. When the question of testimony and what they'd do came up, he raised An eyebrow. 

"First, we must expose the cat and ensure its claws aren't ready to pounce. Then, we must learn of its intent and how long it's been within your shadow. We know not if the Crane are your enemies yet if they are. We will gather evidence of their perfidy and I'll trust in your judgment moving forward." 

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Albert
"Indeed." Iemon considered the words of the Magistrate. The explicit acknowledgment of not only the duty of his role, but how highly he considered the value of the wellbeing of the Phoenix further showed the ambassador the sincerity of the Scorpion.

"Your use of the word 'trust' says much, Bayushi-san, and I am appreciative that it is a mutual word we can share in this case." He bowed to the Scorpion as a further sign of respect. "No matter the outcome, you have shown yourself to be a friend to the Phoenix, and we hope for the opportunity to show our friendship to you in turn."

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Basil
Trust being mutual between their clans was all he wanted. Yuto carried a genuine nature in his character but the colors he wore always gave hesitance to others. Progress in building positive relations was important. Now the Scorpion was being put to the test, having to prove the Crane were indeed spies. Despite this test, the Magistrate remained calm and confident. 

"It gladdens my heart that you feel such a way, Shiba-sama. Our goal here is sincerity and a prosperous future in this city for both of our clans. Together we won't follow past histories', but forge new ones." He spoke resolutely and soundly in his words. Exchanging a look of approval with each present and returning a bow to the Ambassador. 

"We will send a letter soon accepting your invitation, whomever the cat is. We want them to be aware of our arrival, the prey is most susceptible to the predator when they don't know they're being hunted." Yuto would have to acquire the right person for the job. Even though he was an attentive Magistrate he'd need help from another. 

"If there's nothing more to discuss in the meantime, I'd invite you to stay and enjoy a meal. However, if you wish to make a swift return to your embassy to not alert or raise suspicion, then we will understand. It has been an honor having you. Knowing that you trust us is an honor, one we will continue to earn." 

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