Jennifer
*Perhaps it was rather telling that the guards of the Phoenix Embassy regarded Katsumi's approach with a mix of wariness and resignation. Even the Magistrate's appearance in nothing more then a simple dark green yukata, and red obi with her daisho hanging untouched at her side seemed enough to sooth them. At least until the Dragon thin sandalwood box decorated with her clans symbol from within her sleeves and offered a bow,* "I am Magistrate Mirumoto Katsumi of the Dragon clan. If it pleases I wish to give my greetings to the Phoenix clan and their Ambassador," *The Mirumoto intones as some of the guards nervousness seems to melt away.*


"And perhaps politely inquire of recent incidents," *Katsumi adds as the men once more stiffen as one turns to swiftly depart to carry her message inwards to the heart of the Embassy.*

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John
Iemon had finished with the day's business in swift order once his most recent guests from the Mantis Clan had departed. Setting the ambassador chop down on his desk, he shook his head silently as another knock sounded from his door. The servant opened the door slowly, and bowed. "Shiba-sama, a Magistrate Mirumoto Katsuki of the Dragon Clan requests to meet with you, offering greeting and to inquire into recent incidents."

Iemon gave a small sigh. "Very well, Setsu. Please show them in, and put some tea to boil."

The man hurries out, passing the message for tea amongst the other servants, and arrives at the front door, bowing low as one of the inner guards slides it open. "Please, Magistrate-sama, right this way. The ambassador will see you now, and will have tea brought in as soon as it is ready." He leads her to Iemon's office, who has already stood, and bows when the door is open. "Magistrate Mirumoto-sama, welcome to our humble embassy. Please, make yourself comfortable." 

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Jennifer
*The red Dragon offered a grateful dip of their head to the attendant as they follow the man back to the Amassadors office. The Magistrate offering the Phoenix a polite bow of greeting,* "Good afternoon Ambassador Shiba-sama. I hope the Fortunes have found you well this day." *Katsumi murmurs as they straighten with a warm smile.*

"The Dragon and Phoenix have long been allies and friends. In the spirit of our ancestors and in light of recent events I thought it wise too inquire if all is well with the Phoenix and if the Dragon may be of assistance?" *The Magistrate inquires with polite well concealed concern, but concern nonetheless.*
John
"Indeed, our Clans have had a shared history of good intent, one that I hope extends well into the future." Iemon replies, pleasantly but with a hint of caution to his demeanor after the recent events he has had to deal with on behalf of the Phoenix. 

"For our part, we have endeavored to support and encourage peaceful cooperation amongst the Great Clans in these tumultuous times, though our success has been... Mixed. Partly through poor judgment, but primarily ill timing, much damage has been wrought by individuals who share my Clan, but not the Clan's vision." Naming names and listing damages seemed imprudent and improper to someone he had only just met, but much of this was easily attained public knowledge. 

"To be of assistance, I would need to know more of the Dragon Clan's interest and investment in Ryoko Owari Toshi as a whole. Both of our Clans share a reticence to open discussion, but establishing some shared ground between us would go far in knowing how we may be of help to each other."

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Jennifer
"Yes I was witness to one such incident with Magistrate Moshi-san," *The Mirumoto murmurs with an incline of their head,* "I apologize that I was only able to prevent the two from coming to blows, but was not able to stop the Samurai from dishonoring himself and his name." *The Dragon murmurs offering a short polite bow in reticence of the incident. The woman straightening as she considers the Shiba's wary inquiry with knowing eyes.* 

"In regards to the city in so far as I have been informed the Dragon have very little interest in Ryoko Owari Toshi. What becomes of it and who's possession it passes into come the end of Winter is the business of those who wish to vie to become it's Lords," *The Magistrate explains far from interested in seeing their clan caught up in such political cat fights.* 

"Our sole interests are to see those members of our clan in residence well cared for and to utilize this opportunity to deepen our bonds with our neighbors and fellow clans. If our neutrality and reputation for calm and just decisions may be of use within Ryoko Owari Toshi in helping to settle any disputes that may arise then such is a service we would lend ourselves too with honor."
John
Iemon returns the bow quickly. "It would not do to have you feel personal blame for the actions of a samurai from a different Clan, let alone one who lacked even the basic decorum that society asks of us. Please, put it from your mind."

He considers her words before replying. "Then, truly, I hope that we may be good neighbors to each other. Forgive me my hesitation, recent events have... Shall we say, left their mark on me, and with the difficulties already facing the Phoenix due to these things locally... Well. It is easy to assume that when it rains, it will pour." He says, offering a small grin and sipping his tea.

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Jennifer
"I understand Ambassador Shiba-san. Were our positions reversed I would view my own arrival with polite caution as well," *The Dragon assures him her jade eyes softening with understanding and no small amount of empathy.* "For it seems you have had your hands quite full." *She murmurs her gaze lingering on the scrolls and papers that pile his desk with the look of a woman who knew such horrors all too well.* 

"Though I would be a poor neighbor to not at least return your invitation for tea. Should you ever need a quiet moment away from your office I brought a fine shipment of Iron Benten tea with me from the Dragon Lands. I must admit I am curious how it compares to Golden Needle tea. I fear I've never had the chance to try the Phoenix's much applauded brew." *The Magistrate murmurs steering the conversation into more relaxed waters. Tea was not quite the weather, but something both could speak of without fear while they gathered their thoughts and assessments of one another.*
John
"Indeed. I have my hopes that we are through the worst of it by now, though." Iemon replies, scratching lightly at an idle itch on his left arm.

At that moment, a slight knock on the door was quickly followed by a servant carrying a small tray with a tea set, rice crackers, and pickled vegetables. "I have not had the pleasure of sampling Iron Benten, and I welcome the opportunity. At the very least we can resolve the misfortune of your not having tasted Golden Needle." He says, pouring a cup for her once it was set down, the servant pouring the cup for the ambassador before departing with a deep bow and shutting the door. 

"Have you had the honor of being a magistrate very long, Mitumoto-san?"

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