George
~*"...Is more powerful than the strongest memory."*~

Things were moving steadily.

Maybe not quite as quickly as the little Scorpion would have liked, but steadily all the same.

The new office granted for her use remained largely undecorated save for a selection of colorful zabuton and a juniper bonsai—there would would time enough for all of that later. Much of her time the past several days had been spent in reading every bit of paperwork she could relating to the gardens, the staff, and the myriad other details she would need to memorize inside and out. 

A few document boxes were set upon the desk beside the other necessary tools any administrator might need: brushes, ink, paper weights, and so on. For a moment, Kotori had considered that maybe she ought to have asked Tomura's insight relating to the administrative duties with which she was now tasked... But, upon hearing his often tired sounding voice in her mind, she shook her head. No, it wouldn't do to ask him, when he already had so much of his own work to attend. Yoritomo Sadao seemed to have a mind for the finer points of business, and he'd been friendly and accommodating when they'd met. A bit flirtatious too, but that was a bonus. What she really needed was someone with a head for these things to give her some insight as to where and how to begin, and Kotori hoped Sadao would be that person. 

That aside, she gave one final look to the room. A tea service—this time of exquisite lacquer—was arranged on guest table with a sampling of different refreshments. The doors were open, not only to allow for better light and air, but also for the sake of propriety. Kotori half wondered if she ought to have worn something more formal, but the same time this was all part of her duties. Her kimono was made of finely woven linen instead of silk, black and white in color with accents of red and gold. No less care had been taken in her appearance, and the less sumptuous material and styling did nothing to detract from her allure. It just... It felt strange. She'd spent most of her life wearing the heavy kimono expected of a courtier who should, at any moment, be ready to receive and entertain those more important than she.

Well, too late to change anything now. With equal parts excitement and nerves, the little Scorpion waited for the Mantis to arrive. 

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Thomas
*Eppur si muove.* And yet it moves. Such is the turning of the tides, the stars in the sky, and the seasons all alike in their endless dance.

This was no different. An exchange of letters. A request for a favor. Ideas were burning, and Sadao had made sure to come prepared. In the crook of an arm was his own calligraphy box, its exterior a magnificent red lacquer with little carven inlays depicting clouds and swirl patterns. He was dressed in fine silks as always, and his hair had been pulled up in a variety of pins. From a certain angle, it was difficult to tell exactly what his gender might have been. He looked the picture of a soft, tender courtier.

He had stopped, to let his calligraphy set pass scrutiny. Even in Ryoko Owari, things could be dangerous, and Sadao was fine with being scrutinized, he had nothing to hide. Then he was announced, before stepping inside, and giving a low bow to the Scorpion in her office. Low enough to present her as *Just* A little higher than he in station, as this was her office, and she had recently been promoted.
George
Her expression instantly brightened when she saw Sadao. 

He certainly was a beautiful man. Even had Kotori not considered him a friendly acquaintance at this point, had they been total and complete strangers, she still would have been taken by his good looks and elegant bearing. She still had a woman's heart, after all. 

"Yoritomo-san, welcome." She returned his bow, almost as low as his own. So long as she stuck to her manners, she could ignore the quickening of her own pulse. 

"I am honored and delighted by your visit. Please, make yourself comfortable." One slender hand swept out to indicate the comfortable office, including the table and cushions. She'd even been careful to select a cushion of a lovely teal color, reminiscent of the sea and close to the colors she'd seen others of his clan wear. 
 
"May I offer you any refreshments?" 

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Thomas
The Mantis slowly strode in before finding that teal cushion, and moving to sit in seiza upon it. Taking one of the desks he'd begin to prepare his own calligraphy set. "I am well as can be, Bayushi-sama," He said softly, almost demurely. There was something different, here. There was a power dynamic. She was asking him to assist her in an advisory role, as someone who now had more power, more influence in the city.

Sadao had taken on a more... Lower, if not subservient, air.

He produced an ink stone, and adding just a touch of water, began to grind an ink stick against it. "You have come into new responsibilities. New aggravations. You invited me on business, Bayushi-sama. Tell me, what is it you want?"

That was *Bold.*

There was no game of words here. No slow dancing around the subject at hand. No hour of polite pleasantries and compliments and familial well-wishes. This was the Yoritomo technique, what the Unicorn would hearken to some *Gaijin* Phrase: brass tacks.
George
Well, this was certainly different.
Where had the silver-tongued charmer gone? This new man wearing Sadao's face was so subdued it was unsettling to the little Scorpion. 

"Please, -san is quite sufficient. It is I who should be addressing you as -sama, as you are so generously giving me your time today." 

She bent and moved the tea service from the table to the desk, then carried over a document box and her own calligraphy set. Kneeling *Seiza* On a cushion beside him—not *Too* Close, of course—she opened the box and began to lay out a number of papers. 

The papers were entirely innocuous, mostly a series of invoices and receipts for different products and services rendered. Soaps for laundering, bathing implements, carpentry for repairs and maintenance of the facilities... The list went on until there were over a half-dozen different stacks. 

"While my education included some instruction in mathematics and management, I have not had much opportunity to practice." Now a ledger book was produced, in which she had already begun recording the various products, services, and their costs. 

"Unfortunately, many of these documents lack dates. I have kept them in the same order in which they were provided to me, though I have separated them by type." She exhaled softly, looking down at the now covered table. "While certain things are more obvious to me, such as the hiring of workers to complete repairs, I am at an impasse in terms of ordering of the consumable supplies and materials."

"Please, Yoritomo-sama... Can you assist me?" Her voice was soft and imploring as she turned her eyes up towards him, hopeful.

||
Thomas
Different, yes. But not unexpected. She wished to meet him in a professional setting.

He was quiet for some time, listening to her tell her tale and share her experiences. His face, at the moment, was the picture of *On,* Dark eyes cast down to the stack of papers. His eyes did scanned the documents, reading silently as she spoke. He seemed... Demure. No longer a charmer hiding behind his fan.

Then it all changed to familiarity. His right arm lifted, and a folded fan slid out from his sleeve to where he grasped the end, letting his hand leave that sleeve. He unfolded it, and it detailed a picture of a red sun hanging above mountains, and little shrines painted on those mountains. He lifted the fan up to his mouth, and he cast his gaze in Kotori's direction.

"Bayushi-*San,"* He started, a touch of mirth and humor in his voice, "You surprise me. You needn't worry yourself with any of this. You are the mistress of the bathhouse, your duty is to see that all others are doing their part. It seems," He half-folded his fan, pointing it in the direction of the papers and ledgers, "That you may have need to show those beneath you what it is you require of them. Mercantile efforts and touching *Koku* Are beneath a samurai of your station. Surely, here in Ryoko Owari Toshi, you *Must* Have people to do this?"

Above everything else, the Yoritomo was behaving *Politely.* He said nothing of his own commercial acumen, merely noting that Kotori should have *Heimin* Servants to deal with all of this for her, and she had nothing to worry about. He could tell her concern, so for the moment, he simply wished to ease her mind on the matter.
George
She stole a quick look at his face in profile as he read; one could not be presented with a work of art an be expected not to steal a glance or two. 

"We *Do* Have people for all of this, certainly." Another half-breathless sigh, not *Quite* Of the bosom-heaving variety again escaped her painted mouth. A slightly rueful smile then touched her lips as she looked back up at him, eyes flicking down for just a heartbeat to the painting on his fan.

"You may, perhaps, find it difficult to believe, but I am not always taken seriously. I am often regarded as litlltle more than an animated doll, incapable of thought." 

She stared at his fan for a moment before glancing back down at the papers. "So, while you are correct the handling of such matters directly may be below my station, I would be remiss in my duties if I did not thoroughly *Understand* All that must go into such oversight." 

A sick feeling was slowly working its way into her chest, down into the pit of her stomach like poison. What if Yoritomo felt the same way as so many others? What if he thought her foolish and naive, and she had just all but confirmed it? Had she made a terrible mistake in seeking his counsel? It was almost enough to make her dizzy. 

Kotori did not want to think that the man who had so happily watched fuzzy little dancing birds could be so duplicitous. 

Thinking that would just be far too *Sad.*

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Thomas
Sadao waved his arm a little bit, letting his sleeve hang loose, as he folded up his fan once more. "I will not speculate on the way your Clan sees you. You are no *Bunraku* Puppet," He observed, "At least, you aren't, to me. You need not thoroughly understand all that goes into such oversight. The word of your guests should be more than enough. I do not observe the merchants that sell spices and silk, as it is their place to do their duty appropriately under me. Otherwise, their lives are forfeit. It is to be expected."

Cruelty and callousness were often hallmarks of samurai to lower castes. The Lion and the Scorpion were rumored to be among the worst. "I do not know exactly what my servants do every day." This was the truth. "And I do not have to. That they do it, and do it well, was enough." That was not entirely true, but it certainly came off confidently.

He looked at the stack of papers once again, a distant look on his face. "You say you already have them organized, but many do not have dates. You should see to those under you that these omissions are rectified in the future. As far as I can see, you have already made an excellent effort in organizing these." He gave his folded fan a little circular wave. "It is beneath us to consider material things." He slid the fan into his obi, and began to partake in the tea.
George
"How many clan sees me..." She murmured softly to herself, giving a slight shake of her head. She knew exactly how many saw her, having heard it her entire life from the uncle and cousins who had taken her in. 
 
Kotori swallowed hard when Sadao stated *He* Did not view her as merely a puppet or pawn, hiding it behind a demure smile. "I thank you for that, Yoritomo-sama." 

"I know that I should have a stronger stomach to take such necessary action should the occasion arise." There were a multitude of ways she did not meet the common criteria of what it meant to be a Scorpion, and her reluctance to abuse heimin and hinin was but only one. Perhaps it was because she had been around so few that were not in direct employment of her clan. They had sent her to the City of Stories to gain experience and see the world, as it were. 

"Have you ever..." She began to ask whether he'd ever had to deal with such situations personally, but then thought better of it. That would be improper, given he was here not only as a guest, but to offer his insight. 

She leaned forward just enough to gather up the various papers, her sleeve brushing his only momentarily. They had not been sitting terribly close, but Kotori found herself now acutely aware of his proximity. The day must be turning hot, because it was suddenly quite warm. After placing the paperwork back into its box, she produced a silk fan of her own—creamy white with an exquisitely painted black back decorated with accented of gold leaf—and gave a few slow flaps. 

"I am very grateful for your tutelage on these issues. I feel that I now have a better idea as to how I should proceed from here forward." She smiled just a little more brightly, "I hope that I may somehow repay your kindness in the future."


||
Thomas
"Nonsense," Sadao said demurely, downplaying his own contribution. "There is nothing to be thankful for, I only speak the truth." He listened to her words, and her reluctance to finish whatever line of thought was in her head. He seemed not to notice, or not to judge such reticence. Always so polite.

Then their sleeves touched. To many, it would seem to be so minor a thing. But this was Rokugan. Such a gesture spoke volumes.

As good a courtier Sadao was, this tiny thing put him off his composure for just a moment, as he mirrored her, sitting straighter and producing his fan once more to lightly fan himself. He shut his eyes as he did so, under the pretense that the wind blowing in his face might irritate them, but it was in fact to hide his expression. How flustered he was, for but a moment.

"The tutelage is to trust that those under you have things well in hand." Considering the current... Mood of the room, was that particular phrasing intentional? "I urge caution, Bayushi-san. Owing a Yoritomo a kindness is almost as dangerous as owing a Yasuki." There was a lilt of humor to his voice, as he'd gotten his groove back, his smile hiding behind his fan.
George
The little Scorpion smiled, keeping her eyes downcast demurely as she assisted in finishing the tea preparations. She much preferred this side of Sadao, that with the charm and good humor which had been so alluring their first meeting. She was certainly more comfortable now than she had been just minutes before. 

"I do not think I have anything to fear from *You*, Yoritomo-san." She placed a cup before him, her vixens's gaze drifting up slowly, trailing up his arm to his shoulder, over his fan, and finally meeting his. She wasn't quite looking at him over her shoulder, being as they were sitting close, but it was still a motion and a look designed to provoke and entice.

"After all, *You* Would never ask for anything improper of me, would you?" Her voice too was tinged with that playful humor, even as she blinked her eyes innocently at him. 

Now, they had switched to a game at which Kotori had much more skill. She might not have learned even the most basic points of business, but she knew how to best utilize the talents she did have, whether those happened to lie in the realm of music or honeyed words and sultry looks. 

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Thomas
That she was most familiar in a technique that Sadao was not did not necessarily mean that the Mantis was equally as comfortable in the situation as she was. He wasn't about to make any suggestions of Scorpion underhanded techniques, working with dishonorable means to put more noble rivals off their game. Though this felt like *Exactly* That.

Sadao waved his fan more slowly, intentionally to block his eyes from hers every few seconds, to break what holds of temptation they may have on one another. Though she could tell he was on the defensive, as he'd slipped into a more demure tone at the suggestion of impropriety. "This one would not dare ask anything that would stain Bayushi-san's honor. But if this one may be able to facilitate... What does Bayushi-san desire?"

The slow pull of his fan down, his eyes falling on hers once again. His words, and his demeanor, had pivoted once more. He just had to get a second wind in this game.
George
Had Kotori been privy to his thoughts, she would have been wounded. But, she could not, and so merely continued to smile at him. Certainly, she could play the seductress if required. Sometimes, however, flirtation was just a very natural thing, a reaction to the current mood around her; some people exuded an air about them that quickened the pulse and led to thoughts unspoken. Whether Sadao knew it or not, he was exactly such a person. 

"That, Yoritomo-san, is a *Very* Good question." She tilted her head back and gave him a coquettish look from the corner of her eye before closing them and fanning her face and throat for a moment. After a few languid flaps, she again turned her head to look at him, still tipped and slender neck still on display.

"I want what I imagine most people want." Folding her fan, she placed it on the table before picking up her tea and taking a dainty sip. 

"My desires are perhaps not so extravagant as some likely suspect. While silks and jewels are very well and good, those things do not occupy a place in my heart."

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Thomas
"Ah, Bayushi-san," Sadao said, perhaps trying *Not* To sound too full of humor. "Your words are as lovely as a spring afternoon. But you didn't answer me."

He was smooth in his intonation, the features of the man careful, reading her expression. She knew she was beautiful, and he knew much the same. He reached down, to take his own sip.

"Whether gold, jewels, good food, good weather... My question stands."
George
"Didn't I?" 

She glanced back over at him, her expression softening slightly; her smile remained, but for a brief instant, scarcely more than a flash, it was a sad smile, wistful.

"Mm, no, I suppose I did not answer." Kotori looked down into her cup. "Those things which we dream for, which we long for... Is it right we call those things desires, if they can never be?" She continued looking down at her tea, tilting the cup side to side, watching the liquid glide around. Would that she could read her own fortune in tea leaves, or cards, or sticks...

"What about you, Yoritomo-san? What is it you desire?" 

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Thomas
Sadao's expression was coy. Mischievous, even. "Desire is the Second Sin, Bayushi-san. My daimyo provides all I require, and in return I offer my humble service."

There was a brief pause. Then he had to cover his mouth with a sleeve, because he was laughing. He had to give the proper response, first. "Oh, Bayushi-san. I seek good music from around the Empire, and try to find truth in beauty, though it may be as deadly as a razor." He reached down for his cup once again. "A courtly romance. To see the fireflies dance on a summer evening. Many things, great and small."
George
"Sin? Why, Yoritomo-san!" She gave an exaggerated expression of offense, fingers of one hand splayed and pressed to her chest. Had she worn pearls, she may well have clutched them.

And just as quickly, her vixen eyes turned playful. "It is a very good thing, then, that my clan is not overly concerned with sin." 

Kotori smiled as Sadao laughed. It was a pleasant sound and already she was wondering how she might hear it again.

"I hope that you count poetry among your many talents, for you certainly have a silver tongue." She picked up the teapot, letting the silent question of a refill hang openly. The tone of her voice was oddly genuine, free from any trace of derision or rebuke. It may have actually been just a half step from *Praise.*

"I hope that you find all you seek, Yoritomo-san. Perhaps I may even be able to assist in your searches." She flashed another smile, right on the cusp of flirtation and seduction.

"After all, I am well versed with music."

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Thomas
"Yes, of course. Fear, desire, regret. The Three Sins." Sadao gestured, accepting the offer to refill his tea. His smile was bare now, unhidden, as she made her comment about her clan being unconcerned with sin. "Poetry? Maybe some day. I may reveal other talents in time, should the need arise, and the moment be correct."

How tantalizing. He kept his cards, such as they were, close to his chest.

"To assist me in my searches? Are you a matchmaker, Bayushi-san? Though... I am sure I did not say marriage..." The implication hung in the air for a moment. Then he pivoted. "The Shosuro lands are known to have the loveliest flowers in all the Empire, blasphemously matching, rumored to even exceed, the Imperial chrysanthemums. However, the fruits on trees and bushes are the best when they come from my islands. Tell me, what are your favorite flowers and fruits?"
George
"Who said anything about marriage?" After refilling both their cups, she sipped at her own with a smile. "I would be a terrible matchmaker, I'm sure."

"Though, I *Do* Think I could manage to locate fireflies in the summer." 

She turned herself slightly to face Sadao more fully. In addition to making conversation easier, such positioning came with the added benefit of better seeing his face. 

"Fruits and flowers... Now, these are questions I can answer easily. And without fear of sounding sinful." Another smile. 

"I am especially fond of orchids and plum blossoms. And while regarded as unlucky, spider lilies are also favorites of mine. Fruits..." Here the little Scorpion paused, considering the multitude of options. "I believe we both share a fondness for persimmons, yes? What else do you enjoy? Loquats? Lychee?" 

"I do enjoy hearing of your home, Yoritomo-san. Perhaps someday I may be so fortunate to see the beautiful isle myself." Was that a dreamy sigh? It may well have been. 

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Thomas
Sadao took a light sip from his cup. Indeed, they weren't talking about marriage. "If I ever received the training or office of being a matchmaker," He paused, trying to find his thoughts on the matter. Then he simply began to laugh again.

Once that died down, he smiled at the idea of searching for fireflies with her, like children on hot summer nights. "Persimmons and strawberries. The rare delight that is more common at home is the Yubari King melon. They're huge, they're delicious, and they're *The* Symbol of status among fruit." He gave a dreamy sigh in response to her own.

"As long as you'll be able to withstand the rocking of a kobune across the ocean, and you have a parasol for the sun, you should be fine, if you visit."
George
"Mm, a parasol is easily managed, but the journey across the sea does seem to be the most difficult part. I have read stories that say enormous creatures lurk below the waves, like squid twice the size of ships. Is there any truth to these stories, or are they just that?" She tilted her head in question, her expression catlike and enigmatic as she watched his every gesture, every change in expression. 

"Do you miss your home, Yoritomo-san? It sounds like such a paradise, I can imagine that you must at least occasionally grow wistful." Placing the teacup back onto the table, she rose and rounded the desk across the room, picking up a small lute. It was not her usual instrument—this one was a bit smaller and of no where near the same quality: a practice instrument. She kept it here for exactly such occasions. After retaking her seat, she adjusted a tuning peg or two before delicate fingers began to make subtle movements, pressing across frets and strings, even as the rest of her remained still and poised.

The beginnings of a new song were swirling about in her thoughts the more she looked at him.

Inspiration truly was an unpredictable mistress.

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Thomas
"The rocking of a boat can indeed prove a challenge for the hardiest samurai," Conceded Sadao, as he smiled at the tale of sea monsters. "They are true. To a point. Most, that I have heard of, do not come to the surface. It is dangerous to throw your nets too deep."

His eyes went half-lidded as she began to play, and he thought for a time before responding. "The memories of my home are a tableau of paintings in my mind. To miss them is to have regret in my duties, which I do not. I do, however, look forward to the next time I travel down there." It would likely be on business, of course.

As she fell into a new song, he began, ever so lightly, to sway to the left and right, shoulders moving just so with the tune.
George
"I would *Never* Think that you would regret your duties." She teased, "But I shall pray you see your home soon again."

Kotori smiled softly as she watched Sadao's eyes fall half-closed like a contented feline. He reminded her of a cat in many ways, graceful and mysterious and perhaps just the tiniest bit arrogant. 

"I hope you shall forgive my sudden urge to play, Yoritomo-san," Her voice took a low, almost husky quality as she spoke, a perfect accompaniment to the improvised song. "Your talk of the sea, both its beauty and its danger, inspire me."

There was certainly no denying the sultry tones, low and rich and full. The song had begun like the tide, rolling in and then receding, rising and falling, in and out... The rhythm remained steady even as additional notes were added, new depths reached, unfathomable like the sea itself. 

In and out, rising and falling. 

A melody line was soon established, always returning so often to that same driving rhythm; what began as playful and light soon turned deep and tumultuous like a storm, the sea and wind vying for dominance. 

In and out, just like the tide.



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Thomas
Sadao's smile was small but sincere. "Your prayers will be valued, and appreciated. There is nothing to forgive. Indeed, the notion that I may serendipitously inspire you makes my spirit flutter like a butterfly on a summer wind."

Then he put his hands together, folding them in his lap. He let his eyes go half-shut, still aware. He just enjoyed the music and her company, in a quiet, comfortable setting where nothing untoward was happening. 

He'd still only just arrived, it was too soon to play for romance.
George
It was perhaps one of the greatest compliments to a musician to see that their music was having such an effect on their audience, whether that effect was joy or melancholy or tranquility. Kotori watched Sadao's face as she played, enjoying the half-closed cast of his eye, the subtle smile on his lips. 

As she played, she continued to alter the central melody of the song, partially to reinforce it in her mind and partially to determine which variations sounded most pleasing. A change in key, a crescendo here, an accidental there. The sounds were all still pleasant, just of differing sorts. She closed her eyes as she continued, her body swaying ever so slightly as she did, letting the song envelop and embrace her. When she spoke, her voice was almost a soft purr. She was deep, deep into the music now, merely a vessel to something else.

"Yoritomo-san, perhaps you will name this song when it is completed? It is yours, after all."

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Thomas
Sadao's shoulders tightened just so. What to name a composition by a Scorpion, in her lands, for him? What to name it? 

The listener remained quiet, his repose returning in rapt attention. He moved subtly, swaying back and forth, much like an actual mantis may, or perhaps a stick bug.
George
Kotori struggled to bite back a smile as she watched Sadao swaying. She was reminded of his delight as he had watched the woodcock hen and her chicks performing their funny little dance, bounce and step, bounce and step. 

The song continued for another minute when an awful *TWANG* Resounded. The little Scorpion let out a yelp as a one of the strings on her lute snapped, the breaking string whipping back and leaving an angry red welt across the back of her fair hand. She let out a hiss, dropping the instrument in her lap and clasping her injured hand with the other.

"A-apologies. It seems I will be unable to continue, Yoritomo-san."

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Thomas
Sadao maintained his *On* When the string broke and struck the lovely hand of the lovely Scorpion.

He moved in his position, just enough to stand on his knees and he called for a doctor to come and tend to Kotori, as he could not touch her without *Severe* Impropriety. 

Once that was done, he did reach out both hands, however. "Bayushi-san, your manner is as impeccable as the mountain during sunrise. Stoic, poised and beautiful. May I examine your instrument?"
George
"Mm." She passed the instrument to Sadao with her free hand, trying to look at any thing but the injury to her hand. Her eyes were shining with unshed tears, but stubbornly she refused to allow a single one to fall. 

The instrument itself was of decent, but unremarkable make. It lacked the beautiful carvings on the tuning pegs and neck, the pear-shaped body still light in color, not yet old or used enough to have developed a patina. A good practice instrument, but not the masterwork she had been playing for him at the onsen.

The doctor, meanwhile, did his best, but there seemed precious little to be done. Her hand had already begun to swell, and a livid, angry bruise was forming on the pale skin. The lash from the broken string was blood red, even though the flesh had not been rent. The physician spread a salve over the entirety of the bruise before he wrapped it carefully, quickly .Making himself scarce. 

"I suppose this at least now gives you time to consider a title for your song." The little Scorpion did her best to sound cheerful, despite the pain throbbing in her dainty hand. 

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Thomas
The Mantis was knowledgeable in the quality of wood. Where it's from, and more. He examined the instrument slowly, carefully, looking for something specific.

He was looking for a master's mark. A maker's carved or burnt-on insignia. Usually somewhere innocuous, like up on the neck or somewhere under the body.

"Interrupted Meditations by a Beautiful Sea Maiden," Whispered the Yoritomo almost out of instinct.
George
"A perfect title." Kotori uttered one small sniff, blinking away the unshed tears before smiling again. And it really *Was* A perfect title. She was glad he'd chosen something mentioning the sea.

The makers mark was not quite hidden, but was small and unobtrusive, high on back of the neck, between the tuning pegs. The body of the instrument was made of teak, the frets of bamboo. The maker's mark was a stylized plum blossom. 

"Are you knowledgeable about instruments too, Yoritomo-san?" He was studying the pipa with great interest, she couldn't help but wonder. How many more facets of this man were there? Granted they were slightly more acquainted than strangers now, but he really did seem endlessly fascinating.

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Thomas
What Sadao wanted to find out was who this was crafted by. What family they belonged to, and more importantly, what Clan. ||Appraisal emphasis in Commerce|| His brows were furrowed just a moment, as his mind began to go through what he knew and read about.

"To be honest, I am more familiar with the *Taiko,"* He said, as his fingers carefully moved along the smoothness of the instrument. "Drums are frequently used on *Kobune* To keep the men at pace when rowing, and to build a fury in the event of sea monsters or enemies. The only *Kiai* More potent than a Yoritomo Whirlwind fighter's is that of the Crab's, for they must be more frightening than what they face beyond the Wall."

Some of that was boasting, some of that was conjecture. Every Clan had reason to claim their fighters held the greatest battle-spirit in their war-cries. At least he was savvy enough to claim second-best.
George
The maker's mark was almost certainly unfamiliar unless Sadao was an expert in such things, but it likewise would not be terribly difficult to track down if the artisan was local to the city, or even from the region. 

"Taiko performances can be most impressive, that thunderous sound you can feel in your bones as it builds in intensity..." She cradled her injured hand against her chest, hugging herself with the other arm. Eyes fluttered shut for a moment as though channeling some memory of such a powerful performance. Even unintentionally, there was a trace of the erotic in the gesture. But then the moment passed and Kotori looked upon him again.

"As to kiai... For that, I must take your word. I find silence can be just as profound as the most stirring music." True, she had no personal experience with combat, and those duels she had witnessed—whether exhibition or real—had always made her anxious and fearful. Even so, she knew that an enemy need not always announce themselves with a fearful shout; silence could be just as dangerous, and just as frightening. 

"Do you ever train in the martial arts, Yoritomo-san?" 


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Thomas
Sadao may not be an expert in the *Craft* Of woodworking, instruments, and other such things. But the *Business* Of who makes what, the quality thereby, and the origin of materials used and the craftsmen themselves? He was, in fact, an expert.

He saw her touch her hand, holding it to herself as delicately as a lone faun. "I agree in that silence can stir the heart. Silence is... More the purview of other clans, I surmise." He wasn't going to say that stealth and quiet methods were the domain of the Scorpion, even though they were.

His eyes softened as she asked him that question, and he spoke honestly. "I understand the basics that the Mantis encourage. I am a man of the courts, however. I am no warmaster. Yourself?"
George
"What a dashing figure you must cut." The little Scorpion's smile quirked teasingly.

"Am I trained? Oh, no!" Kotori laughed when Sadao turned the question back on her, shaking her head slightly. She did not know why she'd not expected it, but she hadn't, and so the question was an amusing surprise."I suppose I should be ashamed to admit I haven't even the faintest idea how to hold a blade properly, let alone *Use* One. It was determined early on that I..." She paused for only a breath as she considered her phrasing, "...Lack the aptitude for such disciplines." 

"My guardian noticed my proficiency with the musical arts when I was child, and it was decided my efforts would be better spent in that way. And if music has allowed me to make such wonderful acquaintances, than I am doubly thankful for it."

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Thomas
Sadao behaved... Well, he behaved in an entirely Rokugani fashion. Her humility bordered on, or even was, an admission of weakness. Sadao elected to ignore it, instead focusing on the latter portion of what she shared with him.

He looked one more time at the instrument, before handing it back to her with all the care and daintiness as he would offering a treasured family sword. "Benten has blessed you," He said softly, "Your talents for music would make any Kakita's heart flutter."

He seemed patient, expectant, as though he was waiting for her to say something else. To move the conversation in a different direction. He was also contemplating the maker's mark on that instrument. He likely knew who made it, or at least the family and clan that sponsored them.
George
Kotori received the lute back with equal care, though her painted lips pursed into a small pout as she looked at the silk strings. Betrayal of the cruelest sort, to snap in mid-performance. She stroked her fingertips slowly up the remaining strings, silently daring another one to be so wicked. They were all done for as is, but still. 

And then the silver tongue spoke again, and Kotori looked up at Sadao from below lowered lashes. 
"...Just a Kakita, Yoritomo-san? Would I truly be able to set aflame a heart that is unlikely to forgive my lineage?" She plucked a single note one of the remaining strings, low and echoing. "I think, perhaps, I would prefer one who has a more open mind."

The little Scorpion was discovering that it was nearly an impossibility to speak to Yoritomo Sadao without things drifting towards the realm of flirtation. His charm was undeniable, and not something that Kotori particularly wished to deny in the first place. But... He was difficult to read, at times. How much was genuine interest, and how much was mere flattery? On this, she tried not to think too hard. 

To do so would just be too disheartening. 

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Thomas
On the topic of the Kakita, the answer came to Sadao at last. "That plum blossom. That's attributed to the Iwasaki family. They are of the Crane, a vassal of the Kakita, and noted patrons to geisha. It only makes sense that they would craft instruments and things of such a nature."

His words came out slowly, a revelation unto itself, not some bombastic 'a-ha' moment like a detective or magistrate may. "Would it offend Bayushi-san if I commissioned a new lute, made of Mantis quality materials?" That meant wood from the Kitsune Mori, and silk from the Islands of Silk and Spice itself. A high offer, but it was untoward to offer a gift that could be considered useful.

Still... To Sadao, the Crane had just hurt his Scorpion acquaintance... Possibly even friend. "Why would your lineage be unforgivable?" He wondered. She'd offered such vulnerability to him, and it left him unsure if this was true openness, or simply using Scorpion guile. It could be either, it could be both. Whatever the case, he had made his offer.
George
"Really?" She turned the lute over to better view the mark, her brows arching delicately upward. "I had no idea when it was purchased." Kotori leaned forward in a bow. "I thank you for explaining its provenance." 
And then he made an offer that would have choked her, had she been drinking at the time.

"I... Yoritomo-san, that is a very generous offer. How would I ever hope to repay such kindness and generosity?" Not an outright refusal. If anything, her voice reflected just how touched she was. 

Arguably, the little Scorpion was spoiled by luxury, and it was true she had never wanted for physical comforts; in that regard, she had always been as well cared for as any princess. However, no person that actually knew her could consider her to be greedy. It was true, the offer of such a fine instrument piqued her interest, but it was in the same way an artist might wish to acquire a new color of paint—not out of the desire to merely possess something rare, but because such possession would invariably lead to creation. 

"As to my lineage, well." A rueful little smile touched her lips. "We know that the Crane are unwilling to forgive any social gaffe, and from my experience, many find being a Scorpion among the worst blunder to ever exist." Despite the derision with which she spoke, her tone carried no sadness or bitterness. Then again... It was hard to be melancholy in Sadao's presence. 

||
Thomas
"Repayment?" The concept seemed alien to Sadao. "Perish the thought. It only stands to reason that inferior, clearly dangerous Crane craft be replaced with Kitsune wood, Yoritomo silk, and Watanabe craftsmanship."

It was an opportunity, and one that Sadao was happy to exploit, not only for the political maneuvering, but something nice for a friend who loved music more than he did. 

"The Crane get their feathers ruffled if the wind blows in a direction they don't want. Do not be overly concerned with their stares behind their fans, Bayushi-san. Your talent is greater than the tools they have provided, for example."
George
Kotori's pulse began to quicken, and it was anyone's guess as to whether the cause was the generous offer of so fine an instrument or the presence of the man across from her. 

"If it would not be seen as gauche, I would be most grateful to accept your generosity. But only if you agree that you must also be my first audience." Imagining what *Interrupted Meditations by a Beautiful Sea Maiden* Might sound like on such a lute, she inhaled one of those slow, almost heaving breaths. 

"I will keep your words at the forefront of my thoughts when next I encounter the Crane." The little Scorpion shifted slightly, unconsciously bringing her body just the tiniest bit closer to his. There was no denying Sadao had a magnetic draw to him, powerful and invisible. "I shall aspire to carry myself with such confidence and self-assurance, as well as hide my knowing smile behind my own fan when I think back to your wisdom." 

"But enough about me, Yoritomo-san. I am eager to know more about *You.* Have you discovered any places within the city especially interesting?" 

||
Thomas
When she scooted closer, the Yoritomo lifted an arm, letting his sleeve fall and adjust, mere feet from the wee Scorpion.

It was always the little scorpions that were the most venomous. But she was so alluring. So delicate...

"Hold yourself to whatever standard your dojo taught you. Do your Clan proud, as I will do mine. As for me? Interesting? Well... I have not had the time for exploration or frivolity. Tasks, duties, and esteemed social calls." There was a hint of a teasing smile her way. Esteemed social call, indeed.

So close. So very, very close.
George
"I shall count myself honored to be placed in the category of either a task or a duty, and not mere frivolity." There escaped one of her musical, twinkling laughs. Her eyes narrowed in her mirth, like a contented vixen taking an afternoon nap among wildflowers."I would not *Dare* To suppose I might be counted among the esteemed social calls." 

"Though, I think perhaps you owe it to yourself to engage in a bit of exploration." She ran her fingertip absently around the rim of her teacup, keeping her eyes trained upon Sadao's face. 

"There are some truly remarkable places in the city, including on Tear Drop Isle." Did she just mention the Licensed Quarter unprompted? Yes, yes she did. The Licensed Quarter, where the best geisha and pleasure houses were located, in addition to some of the finest theaters. 

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Thomas
"All in good time here, Bayushi-san." Sadao did not hide his smile, not he did not show teeth. Polite and a little sly, showing emotion in turn with her laughter. 

"You still have me at a disadvantage. I am still very new to these streets. Perhaps if my duty allows me time to relax, the Tear Drop Isle could be good. I have not been in the presence of a talented taikomochi in some time."

His eyes went a little lower, matching her vixen's stare with his own, like some creature sizing up a potential meal... But without violent intent. 

Ahem.

"Do you have anything you could recommend there? Or anything you'd enjoy, if you went again?"
George
"There was a splendid sake den there. In addition to the wonderful selection of sake on offer, the most wonderful thing was this system of pipes throughout the whole establishment. These pipes carried in the soft sounds of nature from out of doors, which provided both a relaxing ambient noise as well as masked conversation. Thus, each booth felt quite private, despite the fact they were close in proximity." She was delighted for the opportunity to describe the Midnight Whispers sake den—it really was a remarkable establishment, to account for privacy as it did.

"The grounds in general on the Isle are stunning as well. I imagine those are perhaps better appreciated in the daylight hours than the evening, but I found them just as magnificent under the light of the moon." 

It took her brain a moment to finally process something he'd said: taikomochi. Taikomochi? *Not* Geisha? Was it possible that his preferences ran in that direction and she'd been reading this wrong the entire time? Her heart wrenched at the idea of both such a humiliation to have misunderstood him so heinously but also for some other reason to which she could not immediately assign a name. Kotori dare not lose her smile then, hoping to all the heavens her sudden fears were unfounded. Then again, even if his interests did drift to other avenues, Sadao was charming company. Maybe it didn't really matter at all, upon reflection. 

"I am most interested though in visiting one of the theatres. I am told some of the finest troupes often pass through the area, both kabuki and noh."

"Perhaps we might attend some evening... Supposing your duties permit, of course."

||
Thomas
"A splendid den, indeed?" He asked, confirming his interest and that he was gathering anticipation to visit. 

His hands folded into his lap, and he bowed his head. "I would be delighted to accompany Bayushi-san, and be able to relax in such tender... And beautiful company."

Just the edge of flirting. He gave no indication that he could read her mind, but perhaps he just really liked the drums.
George
"Then we shall have to make a plan of it, Yoritomo-san. We'll call it a diplomatic engagement." Kotori smiled still. It was so easy to smile around him, at him. 

She placed her hand down to shift her weight, and winced slightly upon remembering her injury. Even that had been forgotten around him. 

"Oh, yes! I meant to tell you. Mitsu and his sister—the animal keepers suspect that Mitsu is male, and the other chick is female—has steadily been putting on weight and both are quite healthy." Sadao had so enjoyed the little bouncing woodcocks she was happy to report their progress to him. While perhaps not the most tantalizing of topics, remembering the way Yoritomo had been enraptured by their dancing... She wanted to sigh, and just smiled. 

"You must still name the other chick."

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Thomas
Sadao lifted a hand up to his mouth, not in response to Kotori's wince, he politely ignored that. Instead, it was to hide his enthusiasm at hearing about the chicks. "Haru," He said. Springtime. "A lovely name for a lovely little bird. They may be dull in color, but their personality more than makes up for it. Truly, those little birds are blessings from Chikushudo."

After being able to hide his smile once more, he set his hand in his lap again, and bowed his head to her. "A diplomatic engagement at the Tear Drop Isle with Bayushi-san would be most honorable of me to accept, and I am glad to do so." He bowed his head a little further.

"I know this meeting may have come across less to your initial goal, but I do hope it has become fortuitous nonetheless."
George
"Mitsu and Haru it is, then. When I have a few spare moments, I like to visit them and watch them." She scooted closer, just an inch or two, lowering her voice to a whisper. "The keepers even let me *Feed* Them once."

Kotori straightened again and smiled sweetly at Sadao, likewise inclining her head. "I shall look forward to our engagement then." Of course such words left her mouth before she had the chance to catch the implication of her phrasing. She hoped he may not notice her blush in the mellow lighting. "Of a diplomatic sort, that is."

"Yoritomo-san, I am more than pleased by this meeting. You have reassured me and provided me suitable guidance, and for that I am most grateful. The fact I was also able to enjoy yet another conversation with you was..." A breathy sigh escaped her, "...Was wonderful beyond measure. Certainly beyond what my words are capable of at this moment."

"The Fortunes smiled upon me when you first stepped foot into the bathhouse, Yoritomo-san."

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