Phil
Junichi's Estate rested toward the southwest end of the Noble Quarters. Unmistakable to the attending patrons of the party as both his property and koi pond were lined with flickering red paper lanterns. 
It was a modest home, most aptly described as tastefully sensible with keen attention to the landscaping. To the side of the house was both a storage shed and the koi pond. The pond itself was designed to look as if it was natural to the land, dotted with a few clusters of small trees upon the gentle slope of the water's edge. Nestled between two of the outcroppings of trees, toward the back of the pond, was a small concrete shrine dedicated to the Kami Benzaiten, the goddess of beauty, reason, wisdom, wealth, and the arts. Behind it was a simple wooden storage shed with only one entryway, a door barred from the inside. 

At the front of the house was a pristinely kept grassy courtyard centered by a massive cherry blossom tree. Just beyond its wide gnarled branches were the open black double doors into the main entrance of the house. A bench seat wrapped halfway around the back of the tree where three Geisha were sitting, each playing a different instrument. The woman on the left-hand side played the flute, while the woman sat in the middle played drums, and the woman on the right played a shamisen all while very beautifully singing in a voice both tender and sweet.

Once through the doors of the home, one would immediately enter into a large entertainment space fit with an abundance of comfortable seats and small tables. The Geishas' music could be heard echoing evenly throughout the space from outside. More of which were inside, dancing, serving food, and pouring drinks for the arriving attendees making their rounds.

Further back was a large dining room table filled to the brim with a variety of assorted finger foods, desserts, and drinks galore. To the right and left of the dining room were more private sitting rooms. Both were fairly similar spaces, furnished with a few chairs and paintings of exotic landscapes. The only difference being that the left wings sitting room contained a beautifully intricate kamidana, obviously crafted by an artisan of the Phoenix clan. Its most notable feature being the five great elemental dragons perched along the top of the roofline. This space was a little more somber, somehow much more quiet than the rest of the home

Aside from the main areas open to the party, the rest of the house was divided into two separate wings. The right wing of the house contained the bath and both Junichi's bedroom and private study, with the latter of the two rooms being locked with Junichi himself keeping the only key. The left wing contained the kitchen and the servant's quarters. This was the wing that connected to the same side that the koi pond was on with a door exiting directly out to it.

————————————————

Junichi was of course already making his rounds as the guests began to arrive. He was easily spotted amongst the crowd. This was in due part because of his tall stature, standing at 6'0", but also because of the silken haori he wore which proudly bore the mons of the Scorpion Clan at his back. Of course, he had to be adorned in his finest kimono for the evening. Dawning a deep red hakama, that smoothly tied into the midnight black of his crimson-trimmed nagagi concealing within the folds of his waistline a tantō, with a blade length of 8", a little unorthodox... Though something truly profound was the fact Junichi was not wearing his mask. It was a tradition amongst the Scorpion to have the highest-ranking officials wear their mask, even at informal events. Yet instead, Junichi had it holstered prominently at the left side of his chest. The pristinely white mask was rather strangely composed. It was segmented into small squares, each set at its own varied level in no particular order. At the top of each face of the squares were eight tiny concave pinholes; nearly impossible to see unless one was studying the mask up close. However, the mask took a new form once faced head-on. Its chaotic segmentations would disappear to the eye, instead appearing to exist all on the same smooth plane. Only when the mask was correctly orientated could one see the hidden message written on it. Some of the pinholes had red paint lining their edges, creating the kanji for "True/authentic" (真). It was a very meticulously and well-crafted mask meant to make a statement.

Truth be told it was rather difficult to see clearly out of his mask, especially in low light. Though he also wanted to try and set the standard that such an event was informal. Junichi wanted to culminate a relaxed atmosphere, free of the daily stresses and formalities that ruled his life. It was rare for him to take time for himself, let alone mingle so freely.

That and he truly wanted to show *His* Face. So often did Junichi wear his mask, sometimes feeling as if he's forgotten the face behind it... Uncertain to when the blue in his eyes had finally gone completely gray. A change that made his face show more solemnly than ever, practically emotionless. Just today he had practiced smiling to himself for almost an hour, for some reason it just didn't look quite right to him, and he was unable to figure out why. He could only tally these quirks of his to his list of why it probably was he had no potential suitors. Now it was up to speculation if it could be his mask. It wasn't like he was unaware that veils were supposedly in style, but to attach with it a rumor that those who hide their faces were more than likely not very *Pleasant* On the eyes? It was *Diabolical.* But if tonight was supposed to be *His* Night to be noticed then he should not have to wear it. After all, it was no small secret this party was for him regardless of how he tried to spin it in his letter. Not to say it wasn't wise to capitalize on the opportunity to better know his Clan. He was not ignorant to the fact one was only as strong as their associations.

Junichi had no doubt there wasn't going to be even one person walking through his door without a game for them to play. Though it was rare to be so boldly invited, but how else would everyone know that there were certainly some high stakes waiting to be explored? *There was simply no better way to spend an evening.* All he could hope for now was for more *Curious* Individuals to finally make their appearance. Until then he remained as cheerful and pleasant as a host could be whilst mingling among the growing crowd.
Karen
Kiyo was very punctual, an early arriver to the party, even despite her personal distaste for these sort of social gatherings. They were all just so tiresome. Still, it was her duty to attend, and she would not be entertaining any hint that she would be derelict of her duty. Worse still, she was technically one of the movers and shakers of the clan. The Tansaku may not be the most prestigious or powerful family, but even a vassal family member has sway when you sit at the top. Kiyo (for her faults) would one day sit at the top of that family, she had been named her father's heir. All this lead up to a situation where she needed to show up early, and stay the whole time, and ugh... Even make nice with people. It's a tragedy.

She would graciously bow and introduce herself to her host first. She did see him at the rally, but she left long before things really got going, the crowd was too intense, the scene was not to her taste. She would offer the man the bow of an equal, he was the ambassador now (wasn't the lieutenant governor supposed to take over? Wonder what happened with that), and that made them rough equals, even if he did have authority to give her orders. "Tansaku Kiyo," She would introduce herself when there was a free moment to speak with Soshi Junichi, "I handle the wards in the city". Her face looked no different than normal, she wore no mask by default, and her facial expression was a common one of passive boredom.

As the party fills up people would notice Kiyo towers over most at the party standing at 6'1". Her dress is a finer kimono than normal, although the design lacks any sort of artistic flair, and is mostly just quality fabric of solid color. She forwent her usual heavy gloves and scarf, although she still wore thin gloves to cover her hands.
Irene
Yuto had never been invited or even attended an event such as this, not being such an important figure the man questioned whether or not he should bother coming. Seeing as he was invited he couldn't help but feel rude if he didn't, nevertheless he treated it as a mission. Being prudent himself he arrived early, but not certain if he should even go. A nervous feeling drowned the Junshin, maybe he could come up with an excuse, but that'd be lying! Needing to show face he straightened up, preventing himself from pacing outside the very man's house. 

He'd arrive not too long after Tansaku Kiyo, not having met her yet; that was something he'd desire after introducing himself. The Rokugo was rather impressed by the man's residence, it was humble despite having its own flair and amenities. Having prepared a gift that would be a surprise later, first he'd enter and greet the man. Having already introduced himself prior at the rally, he'd humbly bow and speak. 

"Soshi Junichi-Sama, it is an honor to be invited. Congratulations on your new installment, I look forward to working with you." 

Rokugo Yuto stood 6'2 over everyone, weighing 200lbs so he had a very broad figure. Usually he wore all black on duty, wearing rather cheap clothing he didn't worry about getting dirty and tattered. Today was different. He wore a crimson kimono with midnight black accents, wearing a hakama to match. Draped over it was a purple haori, making the outfit really pop. On the cloak's back was the Scorpion mon, whilst he had a matching band wrapped around the arm bearing the Bayushis symbol. The vassal normally didn't wear his mask so he had no issue with that, his traditional scorpion mask was bound to the other shoulder as if it were a guard. His dark hair fell down to the shoulders and further, letting it be loose and curly. Last but not least he Yuto had his pair of Daishō. Hoping he didn't stand out too much. 

||
Arthur
Dwarfed by the other Scorpion, Kaori's entrance was nonetheless noteworthy. Her palanquin was shaped like the petals of a blooming orchid, red as blood. She sat in the middle, her black robes and milk-white skin a perfect contrast to finish the appearance of a flower being delivered by four strong heimin. A series of bells and chimes hanging from the conveyance announced her arrival with soft tinkling ripples. 

She rose, and her robes were of Manami's finest selection. A scandal by conservative standards, her right arm was drawn into the sleeve of her kimono and cradled by the garment. That side of her kimono seemed on the verge of slipping from her shoulder, the slightest effort by her right arm to free itself of silk would see her right side exposed to the waist. The other side was drawn up high and proper in contrast. Her hair was similarly arranged, piled up with a tail coming down over her right shoulder to attempt to cover some of her collarbone. 

The swords she wore were ornate, with tassels hanging from the pommels. They bobbed with every movement. Her black eyes gleamed as she studied the guests and her left hand rose to remove her black lace mask as she crossed the threshold. 

Walking as if she owned the place she crossed at once to her host and bowed regally. "Soshi-sama, thank you for your invitation," She purred. "And allow me to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your promotion to Ambassador! I have every confidence you will lead our clan to greatness." 

Her berry-bright lips twitched slightly with unexpressed amusement. 

 ||
Hershel
*After Rokugo Yuto and Bayushi Kaori came another figure, this one blending in to the appearance of a courtier, one minor attaché to quite possibly another forgettable courtier. He looked every bit the normal Scorpion except he had green eyes with flecks of gold in them. 

He walked and acted with the practiced moves of a courtier, but to those who knew how to discern true courtiers from others, he was clearly not a courtier, though he was Scorpion. 

He mostly kept to himself, away from the geisha, food and drink, perhaps sitting at the koi pond, staring into its depths.*
Phil
<< Tansaku Kiyo >>

Junichi could not recall if he had ever met the gaze of a woman at eye level before. He would return an equal bow to Kiyo, he could honestly say he knew more about her job than he did about the Tanksaku family. He understood it was a rather diligent task maintaining the upkeep on the wards protecting the city, and that finding capable Shugenja was a difficulty they constantly faced.

"It is a pleasure to meet you Tansaku-San, I must say I am rather thankful for the services you provide our city with. Thank you for sparing your time to attend tonight's festivities." 

The unnatural cool of his slate gray eyes paired strangely with his somewhat uncanny smile. He would brush a few stray wavy black locks from his eyes as his expression rested into one of neutral politeness.

"My mother used to be a traveling shrine maiden before she was married to my father, often assisting with similar services. I understand it can be a thankless task at times, but I tend to think of the lack of recognition as a testament to the fact that we are in such capable hands. After all, a mind without worry has yet to truly face the problems it's protected against."

It was plain to see the expression of boredom written on her face. Hopefully her mood would lighten as the night went on. He spared no expense on good entertainment for the evening, and besides, there was always bound to be *Something* Interesting amongst a den of Scorpion. 

||

——————

<< Rokugo Yuto>>

Junichi would spot a familiar face above the crowd. 

*"It must just be our generation..."*

He pondered idly to himself while returning an equal bow to Yuto. For now, the Magistrate was someone who Junichi wanted to maintain a good relationship with. He could determine exactly to what degree after they conversed with the other clans, assuming he still wished to attend.

"Rokugo-San, I'm glad you could make it.

The unnatural cool of his slate gray eyes would stare out from underneath dangling wavy black locks. A polite expression rested calmly on his face.

"I look forward to working with you as well. Speaking of, our meeting is only a few days away now. We need to reserve a day soon to discuss our possible proposals."

His eyes would then flicker to somewhere just behind Yuto. Junichi would raise his hand and wave someone forward who was just out of his sight. Returning his gaze to Yuto, keeping the same neutral expression of politeness, he would then say.

"Though tonight is not about the worries of tomorrow."

The scent of peach would start to linger in the air, once aware to the senses would one only then take notice of the beautiful Geisha standing quietly off to the side between the two men. She stood a whole foot shorter than Yuto at 5'2" And was shrouded in robes of black and gold. The long midnight strands of unbound silky hair cascaded down over the sides of her painted white face.

With an elegant pass of her hand, slender fingers would tuck the loose strands of hair behind small round ears. The stretch of her arm tightened the fabric around her slender frame revealing the golden outline of a scorpion wrapping the left side of her body. The edges of the scorpion were patterned in a very distinct Kagome style; supposedly symbolic for protection against ill omens. She would bow quietly to both of them before daring to make eye contact. As she rose again gold eyeshadow caught the warm light of the room setting the specks of amber in her bright green eyes aglow. Their captivating gaze would move steadily between both men with a sense of reserved wonder.

"This is Karaku Umeko, one of the best entertainers in all of Ryoko Owari Toshi."

Said Junichi to Yuto in a smooth manner. Turning towards Umeko he would very politely ask her.

"I would be grateful if you could take some time to help absolve any stresses of Magistrate Rokugo Yuto by showing him all that there is to be offered tonight."

"Of course, Soshi-Sama."

Replied the soft and tender-hearted voice of the Geisha. She would look up to Yuto with a pleasant, tight-lipped smile. 

"Would you mind accompanying me through the crowd, Rokugo-Sama?"

She would turn, standing on his right side, and hold out her arm. She was waiting for him to extend his own arm for her to wrap gently around. Once he did she would then begin to take him first to the table for drinks, making agreeable small talk as they left. 

||

——————

<< Bayushi Kaori >>

Junichi had spared a moment from his rounds to get some sake when he was approached by who he could only assume to be one of the 
*"Geisha"* That were hired. When she bowed he would return his own to half of her depth. It wasn't until Junichi saw the swords at her waist, and heard how she addressed him that he realized she was, in fact, one of their Clans' Samurai. *And Junichi thought he was breaking traditions of modesty...* He would smoothly reply to her with an expression of neutral politeness on his face. 

"Thank you, I hope with the aid and compassion of our Clan I can set out to be someone you all trust and take solace in. Please never hesitate to speak freely and openly with me-"

Junichi hesitated for just a moment, his slate gray eyes moved over her face almost as if he was searching for something. 

"-I don't believe I got your name, madam."

Junichi inquired politely, handing off the drink he had just poured to her while going ahead and fixing himself another.

||

——————

<< Batushi Akihiro >>

There were some times when even the host of the party needed to step away for some brief reprieve. Junichi would quietly slip down through the left-wing corridor and out of the sliding shoji doors by the koi pond. Stepping out into the crisp air of the spring night he would look out over the still waters of the pond and take a deep breath, closing the doors behind him.

There were a handful of people mingling and meandering around his home, appearing to be admiring the meticulous landscaping. He approached none of them and was just simply enjoying the serenity he found around the glow of the paper lanterns. Silently Junichi would make his way over toward the embankment of the pond, quietly studying the reflections within it as his mind drifted down into its murky depths.

||
Hershel
<< Soshi Junichi >

*The minor attaché had been paying attention to the people traveling around the koi pond, greeting them as they passed by. Akihiro did not fail to notice the host of the party coming out of the side of his manse, coming closer to him. Akihiro took a deep breath and prepared to meet with an august person.*

"Greetings, Soshi-Sama, this is a great party you have thrown. I have a small token to honor your appointment." 

*Out of Akihiro's courtier kimono came a small scorpion pendant, made of gold with tiny ruby eyes for the scorpion to make it apparent. It had been paid for with koku scraped together by moonlighting as one of the various criminals of Ryoko Owari Toshi.*
Irene
Nodding as Junichi greeted him in return, he wore a soft smile upon his face though he was quickly caught off guard by the next comment. Discussing their possible... What? Blinking a few times, he didn't quite catch what the man was saying, proposals? 

"Um. Say that agai-'' Cut off by his comment of tonight not being about the worries of tomorrow, he blinked a few more times. It was as though he forgot where he was, completely flabbergasted by such a statement. Was he overthinking it? No, proposal didn't just mean marital, it meant other things too... Right? 

Before one could shake the thought he invited a Geisha to tend to the vassals' needs, immediately being placed into another uncomfortable situation. On the outside he wore a soft smile as before, but internally the Samurai was screaming. So much he hadn't even noticed the arrival of the others.. 

When she inquired to accompany her, he nodded once more. Opening an arm for her to caress as she'd drag the statue of a man away. She was so much smaller than him, almost similar to Kaori's size. Even though they made small talk everything had felt blank to the Junshin, having only one word in his head. Proposal... 

This is what happens when you attend festivities, Soshi Junichi... From wanting to accompany the man on his quests, Yuto now wanted to clock him into the next period. 

||
Arthur
The scar on her left cheek pulled her mouth into a perpetual smirk, so it was hard to tell when she was being genuinely facetious. "Oh, I am slipping indeed, if my name is not on every tongue. I am Bayushi Kaori." 

She took the drink and transferred it to her otherwise immobile right hand. Then with a flourish she produced a case and offered it with another bow that exactly matched his own, again using only her left hand "Please, accept this token of respect from a daughter of Bayushi. I pray you will never have cause to break it again."

If he chose to open the case he would find a writing pen that had been broken and repaired with gold. 

||
Hershel
*Arriving fashionably late, though he certainly had not intended for that, Bayushi Akimitsu would make his way into the estate of his next charge, Soshi Junichi. He did not know of any party or event going on when he arrived, as he had just gotten to Ryoko Owari Toshi that very day. 

He wore his daisho on his waist, both katana and wakizashi, watching all no matter who they were. The crowd parted for him, almost as he simply made his way to the door of the house. 

He wore his crimson dō-maru, proudly emblazoned with the Mon of the Scorpion and the Bayushi family. His snarling dragon menpo, which doubled as his mask covered his lower face, as his green eyes flitted from group to group.*

||
Karen
Flattery would get you nowhere with Kiyo, it was not easy to influence her one way or the other, but it was greatly appreciated in small doses. It seems likely that any further flattery would not be particularly well received. She would offer Junichi a very muted smile, "Of course, I'm never one to miss one of these social events," Which strangely enough was true, even despite her extreme distaste for most social interaction. "I look forward to whatever events you have planned for us." Although she is mostly looking forward to fine food and drink at her boss' expense really, the events of tonight are inconsequential

One would expect that someone as antisocial as Kiyo would not pay much heed to anyone else's family history, and while true, she did know the importance of pretending to be interested, especially as she does not outrank or out-important Junichi. "Yes, it's quite a pain to keep up with the task especially when eyes are upon our work. Our code needs constant updating to ensure those eyes can't crack it. We can't have the other clans figuring out how to do what we do and lose out on one of the services that we provide better than anyone else." The loss of the backdoors that Kiyo left in place would also be a tragedy, although no one really needed to know about those.

She thinks for a moment, and then decides to continue planning a future meeting, now was not the time to discuss matters involving herself "I suppose we should take the time to speak of duty in a more formal setting, I do have a few concerns that I should bring to your attention. For now, I will be sure to enjoy the party."



||
Hector
Kei was standing in shadows and holding a wood box wrapped loosely in a vivid red cloth for a long while. His green eyes watched others enter the estate one by one, his parents included, as he attempted to steel his nerves. He had arrived on time, but his hesitancy to enter had caused him to now be rather late, almost unfashionably so. The wind twirled around him tugging on his dark grey haori that bore his mons in bright red thread. It tugged rather violently once, pulling the edges of it into the light exposing the deep red dipped edges one would not have noticed otherwise. With an amused look to the direction of the wind and a steadying breath he steps forward into the light and into the estate.

His face for once was not covered by his mask revealing the extreme scarring raked across his face. They were healed and ages old but still deeply tinted reddish purple and slashed down his face from one top corner to the bottom of the other as if he had been clawed. Should one manage to look past the horrifying disfigurement they would note that his facial bone structure was fine and delicate indicating he likely would have been quite beautiful had he not had the scarring. 

Kei absently touched his mask, which was instead tied to his thin male's obi by his Wakizashi, on seeing the wide eyes and most especially the sudden disgust flitter across his father and mother's faces. Instead of fleeing he pulled his On across his marred features and adjusted his deep black kimono with crimson and gold stitched patterns along the seams, and matching black hakama before continuing on as best he could. He made his way directly to the host to greet them, doing his best to avoid as many people as possible... Which is to say he wasn't doing too well.

"Greetings and many thanks for the invitation Soshi Junichi-sama." A deep bow of a person who was of lower status to one of greater, "I have a gift for you, " He holds up the wrapped box carefully, almost presenting it, "Would you like to open it now Soshi-sama or is there a place I might set it to rest?"

||
Jessica
Miyoko stalked up to the threshold, arriving as best dressed for the occassion as could be managed on the short notice, offering a polite deep bow from the doorway to the other attendants before making her way inside. Her hair was split into two large buns, with a few locks of hair free on each side of her face to frame and accent it. Her hair was tied with red ribbons trimmed with gold, and which had black scorpions embroidered in various threat poses in a repeating pattern. She had accented her outfit with splashes of bright sky blue and deep jade, standing stark against the red and pink that formed the primary colors of her outfit. She was unarmed, save for her fan at her side which could hardly be considered a weapon outside of the court rooms. If she ran into Soshi-Sama during his rounds she would introduce herself properly, as Soshi Miyoko. She would make an appearance, but she planned to take her leave at the earliest convenience, despite how she normally adored these sorts of events.
Phil
<< Batushi Akihiro >>

Junichi's eyes read as a blank slate, completely expressionless as the abyss of his pupils swallowed the misty gray haze over his vision. The solemn complexion he so often wore like a stone mask began to *Crack* With the expression of dread. Junichi would become increasingly anxious as he reeled back from the depths of his mind. When Junichi finally came back to the forefront of his own thoughts, he had dredged up with him the daunting sensation of negligence. He'd turn, eventually realizing the reason he had been snapped out of his trance: He was addressed by someone now bowing to him. Junichi had not even the vaguest of concepts in how long it was that he was gone, or what the man had even said to him for that matter. He would half blurt out, and half stumble, in his response.

"T-Thank you."

Junichi was entirely unaware of what it was he was thankful for... But it felt like the right thing to say? He would return the bow, figuring it would be best to match its depth just in case.

They would both rise with Junichi being the first to speak. 

"I must apologize, I seem to have been lost in a bit of a trance. Too often do I find myself deep in thought when staring into the depths of the water. Usually, it's broken by the passing of the koi, I'm sorry the task has fallen to one of my guests."

Junichi's eyes would widen as the courtier presented him with the golden pendant engraved with the outline of a Scorpion. 

"Especially one who has presented me with such a beautiful gift. Thank you very much."

He would let it fall into his clammy hand, feeling the raised grooves of the Scorpion's outlines as his thumb passed over it. Bringing the pendant up closer for examination Junichi would notice the small rubies glistening under the light of the lanterns. It was simple but made a statement, the perfect gift for a man who was quite appreciative of such tastes. After an appropriate examination, flashing a satisfied grin, Junichi would tuck the pendant into a safe pocket stitched on the interior of his garb.

"I do not believe I got your name. I would enjoy it if you could enlighten me on the topic of yourself for a while, if you don't mind."

Junichi would politely smile at the man, eager to distract himself from his feelings. It wasn't like he could bail on the party he had committed to throwing. He would just have to deal with these worries at another time, making sure to give the Samurai his full attention.

<< Rokugo Yuto>>

Junichi would catch the start of the Magistrates question before it dwindled into incoherency. 

"Hm? About our project proposal to the other Ambassadors? Just write to inform me on what days this week you are available see we can slot some time to work on it."

Junichi looked at him, with hints of disappointment flaking through his otherwise calm gaze. Hopefully the Magistrate did not forget about their rather important gathering to be had. Their meeting with the Lion and Unicorn ambassador was supposed to be near the weeks end. Junichi was curious when Rokugo Yuto did not respond to his earlier letter... Though Junichi would allow him the courtesy of the benefit of the doubt. If Yuto did forget, Junichi would not want to inadvertently embarrass him so publicly. Umeko, almost as if able to read the Ambassadors mind, would then nod to Junichi and both her and the Magistrate would depart together arm in arm.

||

——————

<< Tansaku Kiyo >>

Junichi would attentively listen to the Shugenja before him. He found her *Politely brief,* Almost feeling relieved that it was not him who had to be that way. There were many people to get through after all, and so he was unable to loiter in conversation for too long. Hopefully he would get to commune with her more in the near future. 

"Well, feel free to write me, or drop by, if you ever have the need. My doors are always open to our Clan. Enjoy the rest of the night, and thank you, Tansaku-San, for all of your efforts. May the Kami continue to shine a prosperous light along your path." 

Junichi would bow to her again and the two would depart back into the fold of the party.

||

——————

<< Soshi Kei >>

Junichi did not show signs of either grief or grimace in his demeanor when met with the disfigured Soshi. He would just as politely smile at him as he had everyone else that he had met so far tonight. Junichi would return an appropriate bow to the other.

"It is always a fortunate occasion when I'm presented with the opportunity to meet more of our family. Thank you for taking the time to attend." 

Returning upright Junichi's gaze would look down towards the red cloth-covered box he was presented with. Junichi would of course politely refuse the gift a minimum of twice before eventually calling over one of the many servants. Junichi would explain to the Soshi that he would open it later, as was the customary practice when receiving a closed gift. The servant would then depart with the gift to one of the quarters he has designated for storing such gifts away. Once that was settled Junichi would return his attention to the Soshi, looking somewhat pensive.

"I understand you know my name, but I do not believe I received yours, would you mind enlightening me on a bit about yourself?"

||

——————

<< Soshi Miyoko >>

As this event was atypical and more akin to a small festival, the doors of the Soshi Estate were wide open. Attendees and geisha were spilling in and out of the house at leisure, moving in chaotic synchronization about the property. At the height of the turnout, there must have been close to 300 bodies contained within Junichi's property. Though he was on a mission to meet as many as he could, and in his plight would find himself wandering outside near the old cherry blossom tree where the geisha performed. 

For a moment Junichi was left to himself to admire the music. The melody was beautiful, having a certain sway could carry a wandering mind far away. Yet Junichi would have to stay present, focusing back in on those around him. Luckily he was able to see a woman making her approach while he searched over the crowd. She would introduce herself as Soshi Miyoko. Junichi would politely smile, returning an appropriate bow. 

"Thank you for taking the time to partake in the festivities."

Rising again to his full height of 6'0 Junichi would lock observant slate gray eyes with her own, and continue.

"It is always fortunate when I am able to meet those of our family, would you mind taking the time to indulge me on a bit about yourself?"

||

——————
Jessica
"Thank you for your courteous invitation, Soshi-Sama. How could I not oblige you? Please ask what you wish. I am a diplomat, and have been working to make cordial introductions among the other great clans of Ryoko Owari Toshi. Do you have any other specific questions? I don't plan to linger long tonight, I'm still trying to settle back into the city." She gave a full deep bow to Junichi, showing her respect.

Junichi absolutely towered head and shoulders above her, but she didn't seem unnerved by him. "What else might I tell you of myself, Soshi-Sama?" Her own eyes unwavering as she looked directly up into his.
Phil
"Well, welcome back to the famed *City of Stories*, I would find it a wise use of your time collecting as many as you can after you have settled in."

Junichi's grin would appear to curl in with a certain sense of knowing, though his expression was far too brief to be certain if it had happened. 

"It is good to know more capable Scorpions are starting to come into the fold. I imagine you have been sent to assist with the current state of affairs our city has found itself in?"

Junichi's rather neutral demeanor did not fluctuate in any one way to indicate he meant anything in addition to what was asked. After all many came to Ryoko Owari Toshi, and he was sure only more would flood its streets as the city teetered on the edge. High stakes were at play, and Junichi just had to figure out what it was everyone was betting on; starting with his own Clan. 

||
Jessica
There was a matching flash of understanding across Miyoko's eyes.

"I haven't been sent directly, I was in Shiro no Soshi, and now I have arrived here. I wasn't specifically sent to help with things in Ryoko Owari Toshi, Soshi-Sama."

Miyoko scrutinized her distant Soshi cousin, attentive eyes taking in the subtleties of his demeanor and studying Junichi as he engaged in the off-beat scorpion dance. She took a momentary glance around the room at the other scorpions, before asking, "If there's nothing else, Soshi-Sama?" If there was nothing else, she'd give a polite bow and slip away, attempting to vanish into the party, her height helping her blend back into the crowd.
Hector
The sleight of frame Soshi would bare the customary refusals with grace and, judging by the small twitch at the corner of his lips, mild amusement. He would watch the servant a moment making sure they took care with the delicate gift before turning his attention back to the much larger Scorpion.

It felt unnatural to lift ones head so much in front of someone of higher standing and Kei suddenly felt rather small in front of this man. On this realization of height, Kei's cheeks under the scars tinted just the slightest bit of colour even as his features remain calm and appropriately polite. Being treated with equal politeness where usually his appearance would cause most others to be less so, darkened that tint further. He was unused to being looked at without his mask, even by his family.

"Apologies Soshi-sama. This one is Soshi Kei, a lowly illusionist for storytellers to request the aid of." Another small bow of the head to gather himself and attempt to wipe the colour of his discomfort from his cheeks.
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