Karen
Bags were starting to roll under the Magistrates eyes in these past few days, had he not cared of dignity the Bayushi would have pulled hair hair out by now. Today was a new day though, Yuto had a new Scorpion arriving in the city, receiving a letter in advance detailing a brief description. Finding duties and assignments for all these Scorpions was going to be a challenge, but he felt up to it. 

Today he stood outside the palace within the courtyard, here in the city the Shosuro Palace housed many of the Scorpion, standing taller than every other structure within the city. While under ordinary circumstances a Shosuro or a vassal would be welcoming them, Yuto had taken on extra liberties for the clan. Some would advise against his extra obligations but he didn't care, someone needed to do it. 

The Palace was clean and the courtyard gardens were being tended to, now they simply waited. The Magistrate wore traditional scorpion clothing, a scorpion-styled hairpin, and cherry red haori, with a black kimono and hakama. Both Daisho tucked into the left side of his Obi, in his hand was the file on Yogo Yamori, Reading over its contents. 

Beside him Chinatsu stood, wearing a black kimono, nicer than most other servants would wear. As his personal courier and attendant the woman was provided with some extra benefits whilst being a servant of the Palace. She was shadowed by Yutos's tall stature, standing merely five feet in comparison to his six foot two. 

Taking a deep breath Yuto waited patiently. 

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Bernard
With a confident stride, Yamori approached the Shosuro palace. He was guided by a helpful hinin, who pointed out the new master he would soon be serving. The Scorpion presented himself in his finer attire, a light blue kimono with a white hanoshi over it; intended to represent the sky. His hakama was a light reddish-pink and the obi tightened around him a creamy white. Patterns of pink flowers were sewn into the fabric as a recognition of the beauty that Spring imparts.

The samurai had his topknot tied sturdily, without a hair out of place. The daisho tucked into the left side of his obi and the school mon of the Bayushi Bushi on the right side of his kimono announced his position as a bushi.

He carried a potted flower, with wide short petals which glowed beneath the sun with a golden dew and splashes of playful red. Yamori approached the Magistrate, taking in the size of the giant and the positioning of his own daisho. The closer he strode, the lower his eyes moved out of respect for his new master until finally he stood before the giant.

Yamori gave a gracious bow, to an almost perfect 90-degree angle and waited to be addressed. He maintained the formal posture perfectly relaxed like a bamboo that bends but refuses to break. Arms were stretched outwards slightly, hinting at an invitation that the flower was meant to be seized by the Magistrate. If this was indeed the Scorpion Clan Magistrate.
Maricela
In the cooler shadows of the verandah, the little Scorpion stood waiting, watching. Another new arrival was expected, and while perhaps not explicitly among her duties, Kotori felt that she should be present to welcome them. Yuto and Chinatsu were also waiting, finely arrayed as befit the circumstance.

Kotori herself was seldom seen looking anything less than the image immaculate seduction, and today was no different. Porcelain skin, expoded to the very brink of propriety was contrasted by silks of blood red and the deepest black. Numerous golden ornaments decorated glossy black hair, some dangling down to better frame her beautiful face. 

When a man approached in colors almost more suited to a Crane, her brows arched up subconsciously. It was a pleasing look, albeit unexpected. And he was carrying... A potted plant? Kotori smiled. What an unusual character! 

Once the man was closer, she slipped into her sandals and stepped down, joining Yuto on his opposite side. She nodded in acknowledgment to Chinatsu, bobbing in a friendly but still socially appropriate bow to Yuto.

"Rokugo-sama, good day. The receptionroom has been prepared." 

She then waited in silence as the newcomer closer the last bit of distance, bowing formally in greeting. She would leave the talking to Yuto for now. 

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Karen
For a brief moment, one could have seen Chinatsu giving Yuto a quick elbow at the side to wake him up. Dozing off wasn't something the man was known for, but his eyes seemed to drift today. Yogo Yamori was dressed rather informally, had it been another greeter they'd have mistaken him for that of a Crane. Luckily Yuto didn't care for how the man dressed, not in this setting anyway. Long journey in thick layers of kimono weren't the most pleasant, luckily he hadn't traveled here in such a way. 

"Welcome to Ryoko-Owari-Toshi, Yogo Yamori-san, I am Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto; Magistrate and current coordinator of our agents here in the city. Come, I'm sure you've had a long journey." 

His eyes would have widened, turning to see Bayushi Kotori who had snuck beside him. If Yuto weren't in the face of company he'd have leapt to the heavens, but he saved face. 

*' I need to take a damn nap.'* 

"Good day to you as well, Bayushi-san, you have my gratitude for helping Chinatsu-san prepare. Lead the way." Despite his tired expression, Yuto was able to maintain a soft and meek tone suitable for court. 

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Bernard
Yamori straightened his back, greeting Yuto warmly. "Good morning Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto-sama." The right side of Yamori's face was covered from temple to chin with a plain red mask, a gap around the lip shaped like a crescent moon to leave his thin lips exposed. They curled into a refined and practiced smile, his eyes looking gently between both samurai standing before him. His expression was made all the friendlier by the sitting bamboo carved into his mask in black, snacking on a piece of bamboo.

The brazen visibility of exhaustion rolling off Yoto was plain to see and seemed unbefitting of someone of his station. Perhaps he was ill, overworked, or recently tended to an emergency. Being a Scorpion, it could not be ruled out it was also a mask.

The natural beauty of the Bayushi beside him was equally impossible to miss; her garments worn in such a way as to invite friendship or more into the hearts of those enthralled by physical temptations. He would choose his compliments carefully on that one, lest he appear to dishonour himself.

"It is a privilege to make your acquaintances. I gladly accept the invitation to enter your home, as the journey has been long and I am eager to learn how I can be of use." The Yogo had softened his own tone ever so subtly, so as not to depart from his own cadence but bringing him a step closer in line with the chained gentleness of Yuto's voice.

Before the gathering moved indoors, Yamori turned his attention to the small Bayushi. "Bayushi-sama, may I know the name of the one who moves like a gentle breeze?"
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Maricela
A faint, momentary frown creased Kotori's face when she caught a better look at Yuto in profile. He was clearly exhausted, and yet here he was, standing in the heat and waiting to greet their kinsmen. She resolved to coordinate with Chinatsu to find some way to force him to take some respite, even if only for a few hours. Maybe a visit to the baths and a shiatsu treatment. 

"It is my pleasure, Rokugo-sama." Still, she offered him the same sweet smile she always did when he addressed her. The look of a merciless femme fatale was somewhat softened by such a smile, too gentle and too open to be purely artifice. 

"I am honored to make your acquaintance, Yogo-san. I am Bayushi Kotori." The little Scorpion smiled at the duelist in turn then, inwardly pleased that he was not another giant of a man. It would be nice to be able to talk to someone without getting a crick in the neck. "And please, -san is more than sufficient."

"Perhaps Chinatsu-san would be so good as to take Yogo-san's plant for him, so that we may have a page place it in his rooms?" She doubted Yamori wanted to carry the flower around with him after already having hauled it about for however long his journey may have been. 

"I have prepared tea and refreshments for you both. Please, this way." Turning then she began to lead them both through the winding palace hallways, the destination once again the reception room which overlooked the garden. True, she personally favored this room for its somewhat remote location, but the natural lighting was good, and the view was superb. 

Once again, she waited for the men to select their places around the table before she settled onto a cushion herself. 

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Karen
He followed after Kotori once the greetings were exchanged, allowing the Yogo to take in the palace and be directed. For a moment he thought it may have been a bad idea to have her do the greetings, was everyone going to be infatuated by the woman? Maybe the long journey built up one's feral instinct, but those thoughts would drift away. 

Chinatsu nodded at the suggestion to take the plant, smiling towards Kotori. The human was not often treated or addressed so kindly by others outside of the Magistrate. Despite being shy around others, she may have had an interest in getting to know the woman. Had Yamori accepted the offer, Chinatsu would take the place and bow, departing to place it in his quarters. If not, she would merely shadow the Rokugo. 

As they entered the room, Yuto would have gone to seat himself slowly, closest to the door. One may have noticed he took his time until he let his weight drop into the cushion. Taking out the file he placed it on the table, it spoke of the man being a court duelist, but no other talents or skills were written. 

"The clan has told me your worth, but I would like to hear it from you. Your skill in dueling is without question, but, what other assets are you capable of giving?" Yuto wasn't one to belittle or spit on others' skills, but he wanted to make sure whatever field the man was placed in he'd be confident. 

"I'm not one for putting my subordinates in uncomfortable stations, your confidence and dedication to duty is your strength. I will make sure to assign you accordingly." 

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Bernard
The frown did not go unnoticed, and it gave weight to the theory that Yuto was not often in this state. If the man looked as though he would fall asleep again, Yamori may have to convey concern. That is what someone who had genuine worry for the wellbeing of their lord would do.

"Then I shall acquiesce to your request, Bayushi Kotori-san." The soft smile creeped wider at the offer to take his plant. "Chinatsu-san, was it? My apologies, but I have spent several months growing and caring for this ajisai plant. As such, it holds a special place in my heart. Yet, I might not be able to enjoy its company for much longer. So I must savour the short time I may have left with this little friend." Yamori gave a polite chuckle, a tinge of playfulness teased into his words.

Yamori followed closely behind Yuto, and upon entering the small room he placed his plant beside where he intended to sit. Then, pulled out his daisho and placed it carefully on the katanagake. He sought to show respect that he was safe in the house of his host. Surely, would be expected to especially true within the walls of the Shosuro palace.

The samurai avoided showing any notice of Yuto's movements. He himself moved into a seated position.

"Our clan is too kind in their words. I have had the fortune of serving with an honourable courtier whom the Kami deemed right far more often than wrong. Naturally, I expect this to continue for any Scorpion who calls upon me to ask the Kami to guide my katana.

"Bayushi Miku-sama, the honourable courtier I served, saw fit to instruct me on how a duelist ought to behave in court settings. As such, I have developed some ability to conduct myself with dignity. After all, half the skill of wielding a katana is ensuring you do not have to.

"I have also pursued the high arts of tea ceremony and gardening. The former I'm especially competent in. This is the state your blade Yogo Yamori comes to you in. Use me as you see fit, and apply whetstone where needed."

Yamori's eyes focused on Yuto. He would not allow his lord be distracted by fatigue in the final words of his message. 

*Use me as you see fit, and apply whetstone where needed.*

The Scorpion Clan wielded the tenet of duty stronger than any other clan could hope to, and he needed Yuto to believe he was such a Scorpion. Of course, trust is built over years, not a single meeting. But Yamori was patient, and it was important to be liked so he would not be sent to another city. The reputation of the gardens in the City of Lies grabbed his curiousity too much.
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Maricela
"It is a beautiful specimen." Kotori had smiled at the plant, ajisai in bloom being among some of her favorite flowers. She kept that thought to herself, of course. "You must have green fingers, as they say."

Once Yuto and Yamori were seated, she began the tea preparations. Her elegance was suitable for tea ceremony, even though this was not such an occasion. Yuto was served first, though his tea was placed off to the side to allow him space to unfurl the scroll; Yamori was offered his cup with both hands and a smile.

So far, this duelist, comported himself with eloquence and appropriate humility; Kotori approved of this, even if her opinion on the matter did not factor. She knew how hard Yuto worked at bettering the situation for them all within Ryoko Owari, and some of the other recent arrivals had been... Prickly. 

When an appropriate lull in conversation occurred, the little Scorpion gestured to a plate of tea snacks, including mochi, moon cakes, rice crackers, and daifuku. 

"Please, do take some refreshment. I am sure your journey was a tiring one."

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Karen
Chinatsu politely stood back and helped set the table up after the offer was rejected. Yuto however took a bit of interest, having some skill and education in the likes of gardening. "You'll find many capable gardeners who I'm confident will be able to save your precious plant. Perhaps later Kotori will fetch one of them to nurse its health for you." He seemed a little more immersed in the conversation, likely due to Yuto's own interest and fascination with plants. 

As he continued listening the man seemed to be very accurate to the file. Managing his skills would be a task among the other Bushi he possesses. However, he seemed intent on the gardens, whether it was due to his taste of fancy of Kotori the Magistrate wouldn't bother guessing, it was probably both. Unlike another Scorpion, he felt his tastes weren't entirely polluted with untamed instincts. Yogo Yamori seemed like a worthy man to work alongside. 

"You'll find the opportunity for dueling won't come often, but your courtly skills will prove useful. We've been encouraging our scorpions to think laterally, using their wit to procure information by utilizing skill and coy methods. Building a network of reliable information sources and adding to it is vital, it's a core aspect of our influence. This reason is why I'd like to assign you somewhere." The two Scorpions would find Yuto in his work mode, speaking with purpose and dedication. If he was still tired the Rokugo certainly was shaking it off well. So focused he didn't take to the Tea or treats provided for them, that could also be due to his habit of lacking self care. 

"I would like to place you in the Merchants Quarter of the city, we possess a Tea house called the Smiling Friends. You may take well to it, I can try and get your ownership on paper. Every now and then I'd like you to check in on our Dear Bayushi-san in the gardens. She has a Yojimbo, but I'm sure a sharper blade checking in on her every now and then will be appreciated." 

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Bernard
"Thank you Bayushi Kotori-sama. In truth, I still have much to learn. No doubt the renowned gardens of Ryoko Owari Toshi have much to teach." Yamori was pleased to be offered some treats. His appetite stirred at the colourful confectionary before him. He cautiously picked up the mochi with napkin in hand and delicately took several small bits to comfortably fit it into his mouth. Then washed it down with a slow sip of his tea.

His attention refocused back to the host; seeing this as the opportune moment to make an impact. Carefully he picked up the potted plant and reached toward Yuto. With their difference in height, even when sitting, someone at a distance might think a boy was showing his favourite flower to his father.

"Thank you my lord. You are a gracious host. It was my suspicion that meeting a man of your stature, I would be compelled to show my gratitude. Thus, I had spent the last few months carefully growing this ajisai. The fortunes smiled upon me, to have it bloom during my travels to your home. While I cannot compete with the artists who have devoted their lives to the Shosuro gardens, I hope this unique breed of flower can find a home for you. Please accept this gift."

While it was true he had spent months growing this flower, it held very little personal meaning to him. Most things did. But one had to appear functional, possessing passion and care for the things they pursued. So he mimicked the tones and expressions of those passionate samurai he had met in his travels; even his eyes lit up at the excitement to finally be able to present this gift to his lord.

Upon closer inspection it could be seen that the newer leaves were vibrantly green, the lower stems having darkened over the last month, without a spot or tear. A single flower happily in bloom. The ajisai of his home province were quite hardy, suitable for the long journey.

||Should we put Yuto's detailed explanation of Yamori's duties on pause or continue it back to back with the gift exchange? I imagine once the etiquette of gift giving is initiated it would continue uninterrupted and then the discussion of duties would take its course

Yamori was pleased at the news that duels did not come often. They were dangerous affairs, and he did not relish the thought of an early grave. The news continued upwards. He was not expecting to conclude this meeting being required to spend time at a tea house. Tea ceremonies were a wonderful thing. When done correctly, few words were spoken and there was little need to show emotion.

"A delightful name. It would be a pleasure to serve in this capacity and a duty I anticipate I can perform to your expectations and satisfaction.

"No doubt her yojimbo is capable, or they would not be Bayushi Kotori-san's blade." He shifted his focus toward the little Scorpion. "Of course, what we care for must be especially well-guarded; and this I will gladly do for you Bayushi Yuto-Sama." Yamori studied the reactions of Yuto and Kotori. This was perhaps Yamori's most dangerous duty. If romantic interest was felt from Yuto to Kotori, being assigned to Kotori could put him in grave danger if he was perceived to be interested in her; or worse, her interested in him.
Maricela
"I would be delighted to show you around the gardens once you have settled in, Yogo-san. The flowering season has begun and it is quite spectacular."

*Oh good, at least **One** Of them is eating.* Kotori was relieved to see Yamori take advantage of the treats on offer, and offered him another pleasant smile. She remained dutifully quiet until addressed again, knowing her task was to provide hospitality and ease tensions, should they arise. 

"My assigned yojimbo is certainly proficient in his role, but he too has other duties to which he must attend. Another person capable of alternating in that position would be more than welcome on all counts, I should think." Another pleasant, perhaps even shy smile touched her lips. "Within the gardens I believe I am well protected. I would only seek to impose upon Yogo-san for ventures that carry me away from the palace or gardens." 

She was almost itching to reassure Yamori that she was neither a trouble maker nor trouble seeker, but talk was cheap and like all members of their clan, action proved more telling than words. This Yogo seemed a calm, almost gentle soul, his training as a duelist notwithstanding. Perhaps, in time, they might even become something like friends.

How lovely that would be.

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Karen
Yuto would have of course gone through the painful etiquette of denying the gift twice before accepting. Nodding in affirmation before speaking: "I am honored to have received such a thoughtful gift, not many appreciate nature as they should. You seem to have a tranquil and steady mind, a useful asset for diplomatic endeavors." He was being truthful, Yuto certainly felt a man of his talents was meant for more. Although until later, this was all he could do for him. 

"Your sword will however be useful, but that will be a discussion for another time. There are a few matters I must confirm first, I hope you're not afraid of getting those hands dirty." He chuckled a bit, Yamori had zero idea of what was in store for him. Yuto hoped the duelist was as good as he thought. 

"Until further notice, I'd like you to become more acquainted with the city. You are not bound to the Smiling Friends tea house, I'd encourage frequenting the merchant's quarter and experiencing all there is to see. At your discretion and steady caution of course." 

Turning to Kotori, who seemed a bit nervous beneath the veil of a diplomatic mask. Yuto spoke to reassure: "I trust your judgement Bayushi-san, I've been meaning to schedule something for you soon. There's a certain Apothecary I'd like for you to meet." 

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Bernard
"Thank you, Bayushi Yuto-sama. Your words it seems, are as generous as your actions."

Yamori considered whether to mimic the lord's chuckle, but the contemplation had the moment to join in escape him. Instead he widened his smile and nodded in affirmation. "A bushi grows accustomed to such things."

He had withdrawn from flowery language, listening intently and making an active effort to allow Yuto to dictate the course and pace of conversation. It would do Yamori no favours to waste the man's time, now that formalities had been actioned appropriately.

"I shall become as familiar with the quarter as I am my own hometown." Yamori's confidence betrayed his oversight of just how vast the Merchant's Quarters were, let alone the whole of Ryoko Owari Toshi.

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Maricela
Kotori remained dutifully quiet as Yuto and Yamori spoke, keeping her hands folded properly in her lap and her eyes lowered. She listened, reflecting on the way the magistrate had interacted with the other recent arrivals. When addressed again, she looked up and nodded.

"I shall look forward to the introduction, Rokugo-sama." 

True, it would be very beneficial if she were able to meet a trustworthy apothecary or physician in the city, instead of trying to maintain the necessary medicinal formulations on her own. 

"If you require nothing further from me at this time, I would like to make certain that Yogo-san's chambers are ready." When the magistrate nodded in approval, she climbed to her feet and bowed to both of the men present.

"If you'll excuse me, Rokugo-sama, Yamori-san. It was an honor to meet you." The little Scorpion gave one more smile before quietly leaving the room, sliding the door shut behind her. 

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Karen
Yamori seemed willing to perform any duty for the benefit of the clan, Yuto could appreciate the dedication. These assignments weren't ideal, but they held a purpose, one they could draw benefit from. Increasing their presence in the city and spreading influence was essential, these other clans were beginning to underestimate the Scorpion. After establishing these things Yuto had nothing else to add, except one more. 

"Soon I will require your sword, but such details will be discussed later. For now, that is all." He spoke more firmly this time. 

Turning his eye to Kotori, he nodded, turning his head back to Yamori as she departed. Collecting his things, he stood. "Be mindful of your association while in the city. No matter how accustomed you become to the patrons of the other clans, you are nothing but a Scorpion to them." He bowed, if there was nothing else to discuss, Yuto would take his leave. 

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Bernard
Not wanting to risk damaging a seemingly good first impression, Yamori remained focused and obedient. Responding to the firmness with a confident "Osu!"

Something that might have seemed exaggerated if not for the fact that this was from one bushi to another of higher status.

Once Yuto gifted his advice, the bow cut away the opportunity for a respectful verbal response. Instead, Yamori returned the bow with a deeper one of his own; still completely relaxed just as he had been when meeting his lord at the front of the palace. Keeping his eyes at all times lowered to the floor he quietly stepped over to his daisho, turning away from his lord to politely tuck it back into the right side of his obi. Then, sliding the shoji open he gave one final bow. Stepping out backwards, he closed the door again.

*Nothing but a Scorpion to them? One can hope...*

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