Richard
It was strange not to be at the docks to greet the new arrivals. Kana had been making a habit of going to greet the new Mantis as they arrived, but her duties had been picking up, and there were enough people coming in that it wasn't quite feasible. It was a good thing, so be sure, to have so many people coming in! Just a good thing with complications.

She sat at her desk in her office, looking over a bit of paperwork, when a familiar boy pushed slid her door open. "Uh, good morning, Moshi-sama! There's someone here to see you. It's a Tsuruchi-sama?"

Kana smiled warmly at the boy. "Why, thank you, Yuji-san! Please, send him in." She stood up, prepared to receive the new samurai as Yuji ran out to the hall to help direct the new arrival inside.

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William
*The great City of Lies had lived up to its name. From the Scorpion j-samurai overcharging for gate entry to the farrier politely telling Ichiro he'd wait a month for a new shoe on Kaze or he could "Expedite" The process financially, the City of Lies had definitely not disappointed. Finding the furoshiki had been an easy, if not to say expensive, endeavor. The gift inside of the formal wrapping, a simple affair of finely crafted metalwork in the shape of a mantis to either be worn akin to a broach, hair pin or fashioned into a menuki if so wished procured further east within more friendly a region. Fashion and function even when fashion was called for was very much in keeping with Ichiro's ascetic bent and well-made if simple formal attire. A penchant that, unfortunately, didn't sit well with most elegant lords and the like but he learned years ago it was better to be ignored and useful than useless and ostentatious when one was a Tsuruchi who didn't subscribe to the supremacy of the yumi.*

*Taking in the hall, a novelty to the grizzled veteran more accustomed to the provincial halls of Wasp lords and notable samurai, Tsuruchi couldn't help but appreciate his ironic turn of fate. From a pawn in courtly games back home to an undoubted pawn in the games of nobles here in Scorpion territory, it seemed like his lot never changed. Politely thanking Yuji-san for the admittance, Ichiro made his way inside of the occupied room. Eyeing the awaiting Magistrate, he began the obsequies pageantry of his station; the series of bows and deeper bows, greetings and gift giving... The tedium of necessity and societal expectations.*

"Magistrate Moshi-sama. I thank you for your hospitality. I am Tsuruchi Ichiro. I would like to give you this small bauble obtained on my way from the eastern territories. I am here, as requested, to serve," *Finishing, he raised the gift with both hands in accompaniment with an appropriate bow.*

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Richard
Kana smiled warmly as the Samurai made his way in, greeting him with a bow. The magistrate certainly seemed the type that would stand out in a crowd between her bright orange kimono with green embroidery, shaved head, makeup, and scar that seemed to be an extension of an ever-present smile. "Good day! I am Moshi Kana, the magistrate here. Welcome to our little piece of Ryoko Owari Toshi! I trust the journey here was agreeble?"

She happily accepted the gift without the requisite refusals; a sign that the samurai need not expect the most formal of situations within the embassy. She admired the pin with wide eyes; it certainly wouldn't work as a hairpin, but it would be the *Perfect* Accessory for her outfit. "I thank you graciously for the gift! Your eye for craftsmanship is clear. Please, have a seat, and make yourself comfortable. Oh! And travel papers, if you would."

Kana returned to kneeling at her desk, folding her hands in front of her. "So, it is my understanding that Ambassdor Moshi Mai-sama requested the presence of capable bushi, and that you were sent here to fulfill that request. Now, I will say diplomatically, things have been going quite well for us so far. No major faux pas, no major conflicts... But that's not to say there haven't been any situations where it might help to have some extra protection, shall we say." She paused, and mused for a moment. "Have you had experience working with Shugenja before?"

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William
*Ichiro takes the offered seat with a polite bow and smile. Rummaging within the front folds of his clothing, he produces the requested documentation.*

"Thank you, Kana-sama. I apologize for the mistake. It's always good to hear we are doing well diplomatically. I hope to do my part to ensure that continues."
 
*Settling back into the offered cushion, Ichiro gives a reflective pause as the memories of liquid earth beneath his feet at Ashinagabachi and eye-opening sights of the Shugenja storm rider aboard ship come racing back.*

"Some. Never directly. I served complimentary to their efforts during recent political misunderstandings but never amongst them if that helps paint the picture some."

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Richard
Kana raised an eyebrow. While she was fairly relaxed with protocol, she wasn't certain how comfortable she was with someone she had just met using her given name. Still, she had certainly made that mistake before, and it would be hypocritical to be harsh with him. Not to mention unproductive given that he had just arrived to the city.

"Ah! Well, that is somewhat of what we are thinking. We actually have a good few Shugenja amongst us, myself included, as well as one who has recently arrived, to my understanding. Now, many of us are capable of handling ourselves, it's true. Once you meet the ambassador, you'll know exactly what I mean," She added, chuckling softly. "That said, it usually is not the best optics for one blessed by the Kami to handle more difficult situations directly. Even if it *Is* Deserved in some cases..."

Kana sat up a bit straighter. "My apologies. I was about to start rambling. I suppose it will be best to give you an overview of our effort. Currently, we've been working towards an alliance with the Unicorn, and attempting to extend our influence in the docks and merchant's quarter. The more of a foothold we have in such an area, the more difficult it becomes for us to be overlooked as just some oversized minor clan in the city. Of course, this comes with pushback, from two main sources. First are the firemen gangs that are wish to keep their "Cut" From the businesses there, so to speak, and the Otter Clan, a minor clan who wish to gain the same foothold to compete with us."

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William
"Any suggested courses of action I can support, Moshi-sama? I have had some experience with more of the... Less appealing... Side of similar discussions with such reputable organizations. From what I've experienced entering and dealing with the residents, it surprises me the sort have found a roost in such a splendid city amongst such hospitable surroundings." 

*Bowing slightly, he allowed a wry little smile to cross his face, hopefully bringing home the implied sarcasm.*

"Either way, I am at the clan's disposal. As for the Otter clan, I know very little about them outside of them having similar interests."

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Richard
Kana tried and failed to suppress a snicker at his comments. "Ah, I see you have already become well acquainted with the nature of this fair city, Tsuruchi-san! Unfortunately, you are correct, and some of these dogs have found a way to thrive in our fair, just city." Her smile soon fell, though. "There is one group we are looking into discussing... Some sort of arrangement with," She began, though it was clear she was not thrilled with that course of action, "And another, Strong Arm, who are violent to the point they will even attempt to slay Samurai. Yoritomo Takeya-san is one of our samurai looking into the matter who may be able to offer further insight."

"As for the Otter clan, you would not be alone there. I myself knew very little of them until they disrupted an attempt to collect pay for our services from some merchants. At this point, I would recommend being wary, but not overly frightened of them. Keep an eye peeled for any unusual mons. They are a minor clan, which means we can do nothing unless they initiate hostilities, but they're still an issue we need to address if we're to achieve our goals at the docks."

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William
"Understood, Moshi-sama. I will connect with Yoritomo-sama on the matter of unfortunate disrespect and violence done to our clansmen. As to the minor being brazen enough to interrupt a transaction for service, that can be addressed shortly."

*Ichiro shifted to a more comfortable position on the cushion and let the quiet hang a second.*

"If I may inquire, Moshi-sama, as to whom you would want me to report to concerning anything I may find out in the course of my work about town that may be of value in any dealings with the other clans?"

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Richard
"Well, thankfully there's not been any direct violence from the firemen gangs to our clan. It is more that Yoritomo-san has been on the ground, and would be the ideal person to speak to in his attempts to ensure that *Does not* Happen." She smiled brightly. "As for the Otter... It sounds as though you have an idea? If so, I would love to hear it! I may be a magistrate, but I certainly don't believe in discarding input from the people I work with."

Kana waited a bit in the quiet herself. This new Samurai struck her as very professional and eager to get to work. Though it raised questions as to the kind of person he was outside of his duties...

"Absolutely, Tsuruchi-san. If you discover anything that would be of interest to know, please don't hesitate to share it! Knowledge is power in a city where deceit is often the currency."

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William
Nodding along politely, Ichiro readjusted his haori as not to ruin it inadvertently as he only had the one. 

"I can't say I have a fully formulated plan for the Otter but I have the bare bones of one forming, yes. We can not, by Devine decree, instigate any grievance with our erstwhile neighbors but we can work to ensure they are brought to understand our position less formally at less formal meeting places. I would not sully your hall with such specifics, if that is acceptable with the Magistrate-sama."

*He paused as the cloud of possible avenues of approach solidified in his mind and began anew,* "Ironically, the firemen may be a solution to the Otter issue but I dare not be presumptuous without speaking to Yoritomo-sama first. I will do as requested and be of more service once I have the lay of the land. The map is not the territory, and I am just newly acquainted with the just and honorable of the city."

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Richard
Kana nodded. "I think I understand what you're getting at here. Just a word of caution if we're going to head that way, though. In my encounter with them, one of them stood her ground against three Samurai, including myself, and even when their support arrived, only one of them had steel and yet they stood their ground. I fear they won't be intimidated easily. That said, two of our samurai are collecting some further information on the clan. One of our men has disappeared under mysterious circumstances, and if they're involved, we may yet have some more options open up to us."

She then raised an eyebrow at the talk of using the firemen. She still loathed the idea of having anything to do with them beyond putting them to the blade, but if they were to compete more "Directly" With the Otter, this certainly wasn't a bad idea. "Of course! He's a good fellow, and has already found a good few spots to eat," She added with a chuckle.

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William
*A look of surprise crosses Ichiro's face at the revelation of three losing to one and the prospect of decent food in a place seemingly more likely to poison you and take your belongings than make sure you're well fed.*

"That is useful information. Thank you for your candor on the situation, Magistrate-no-kimi." 

*A seated bow followed as Ichiro processed all he had learned. Firemen, Otter, agents of the Mantis already in play... All of it pieces to the puzzle of effecting change and hopeful increase in holdings here in this cesspool of a city. Grand as it may be in its splendid reds, it still more of a touch of green amongst the sake houses of street power and assuredly in the high halls of governmental power.*

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Richard
"Of course, Tsuruchi-san. I would be very poor in my role if I were to simply say hello and then throw you to the noble, upstanding wolves of this fine city!" She chuckled softly at her own joke. "Truly, if there is anything else you wish to know, please ask. The only details I may be lacking in are in our new shugenja you may be working with. She's arrived at nearly the same time, and I've not yet had the chance to speak with her or introduce myself, for that matter. You've actually come at a most auspicious time for us, it seems!"

The cheerful magistrate seemed to relax a bit at her seat. "May I offer you some tea or sake, Tsuruchi-san? I'd get to know you a bit better, if that's agreeable."

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William
*Politely smiling in return at the joke, Ichiro pulls off a seated bow. *

"Thank you, Magistrate-sama. It would be an honor to share tea and talk. As to my charge, I look forward to being of any service I can be. I am, by way of your inquiry concerning my experience with those who speak with the Kami, assuming I will be protecting somebody who can do so. Am I incorrect at all? Admittedly, I have seen the most awe-inspiring feats accomplished by Shugenja. I am eager to be of service directly."
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Richard
*Another one who's right down to business then...*

"That is the plan, yes. There's many dangers in the city, and well... If you've seen the gift of a Shugenja in action, you know it can have a most significant impact. Of course, such impacts might be advisable to avoid in the city. There's been rumors of what's happened to some in the city who have been less than responsible with such a power. As such, it would be good to have someone who can help them avoid using using such unless absolutely necessary."

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William
"Understood, Magistrate-sama. I will ensure I do my best. Not to be too forward but, how do you find the city? I will admit, while I haven't seen much of it, it is vastly different than most cities I've seen."

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Richard
"Well... You know of the reputation the city has, of course, all jesting aside. In many ways, it does live up to its reputation. The firemen gangs are the least of the problems here. The city's own guard will often request 'contributions' for services," She explained, putting just enough emphasis on the word contributions to let Ichiro know exactly what she meant. "Not to mention the competition amongst other clans for the city makes trust a very dangerous game."

She leaned back a bit, genuinely smiling as the subject shifted. "That said, there are bright spots. The food and confections here are simply without compare. Having presences from throughout Rokugan lets us enjoy food and cuisine we only ever imagined. The lands outside the city are beautfiful, and I do like to go out for my prayers at times. There are also good, honorable people here as well. I've been privileged to meet people who I would now consider good friends. If you ever wish to know the city better, you should look for Shinjo Temujin-ku - SAN! Shinjo Temujin-san! If you ever wish for a tour!"

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William
*Ichiro politely nods along with the conversation- probably more of a habit that a polite gesture at this point in his life- and seems to file everything said about upstairs for future reference. Corrupt-what a surprise considering the host clan-guardsmen, firemen, a Shinjo Temujin, the food and confections. All of it was a point of logic to use later to gain something in his work. You didn't hunt man for fifteen years and not learn to study.* 

"I will make it a point to seek Shinjo-sama out at first opportunity after Yoritomo-san. Thank you, Magistrate-sama. My jest likewise aside, I humbly thank you for the opportunity to be of service in this famed city."

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Richard
"Oh, while I appreciate the thanks, you can thank our ambassador, Moshi Mai-sama. If you've not had the chance to meet her yet, you are in for a treat." She smiled. "Have you decided where you'll be staying just yet?" She asked, rising from her seat. "Many do prefer having an inn room, and there's a number of them, but we do have private quarters here at the embassy as well."

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William
"Due to the nature of my usual work, I would look for accommodations outside of the protected grounds of an embassy but since I have yet to be acquainted with my charge, I would wait and see before assuming I know which would be more beneficial." *Ichiro pondered a bit, the Hampshire wheels grinding in his head as he weighed the pros and cons.* "Both could be beneficial, depending on the nature of the city, the work, etc."

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Richard
"Hmmm..." Kana though for a moment, her brow wrinkling slightly. "Well, you don't have to commit. If an inn is usually how you go, you can always change your mind later if you like! Our own ambassador stayed on her ship for some time before deciding to reside at the embassy. In the mean time, is there aught else you want to know? Is there anything you'd like to know about me or some of the other Mantis that are stationed here?"

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William
*Ichiro momentarily looked ill at ease. He shifted slightly in his seat to his knees and executed a slight bow.*

*"Now or never ask again, old man."*

"Magistrate-sama, I ask after those of my family in the city. Are we... Well represented? If I can inquire as to where to find them and, perhaps, a given match maker for one as low as I?"

*"There it is. An old man admitting the war drums of time beat for everyone under Amaterasu's grace."*

"If I am not being too forward, please also tell me of yourself. I realize I may be out of decorum with my previous requests."

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Richard
"OH!" She looked a bit surprised by the comment. "I, um... Well there is one other Tsuruchi present with us at this time. I've not had much of a time to meet with him, but he will actually be competing in our hand to hand tournament in just a few days' time. Should we meet in the semifinals, I look forward to a rousing, good contest from what I have heard of him!" She grinned.

"As for a match, well... Apparently there have been a number of requests for such. Including a Dragon who has been looking for her sister's betrothed, which could be interesting! There is um... Nevermind!" Kana stopped herself, thinking better of being *Too* Indulgent of her fantasies of better clan relations. "One of our Kitsunes is attending dinner at a matchmaker's, so there is one within the city."

"Well, as for myself, what is it you would wish to know, Tsuruchi-san?" She asked, seemingly oblivious to any potential faux pas that might have existed.

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William
*Ichiro shifts in his kneeling position, clearly uncomfortable in some way.*

"Whatever you would like to discuss about yourself. I would greatly like to get to know those whom I serve to be of better service. We are, unfortunately, few compared to our counterparts. Anything I can garner about those bearing the green, will inevitably make me better at my duties."

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Richard
"Oh! Well, of course then!" She smiled warmly. "Well, I've been in Ryoko Owari Toshi for the better part of the spring by this point. As I've mentioned, I've found some solace here with the food; there really is nothing quite like it! I dare say it might be a little bit of a weakness of mine..."

She trailed off, looking for a brief moment like there might be more she wanted to say, but ultimately electing to move on. "Aside from that, I enjoy a good sumo match, and to read as well." She took a brief glance back to her scroll satchel. "To tell you the truth, I don't remember a time when I wasn't carrying this thing around." 

"I've also been working closely with the Unicorn when I have the opportunity of late. We've been looking to pursue closer relations with them, and for myself at least, I've found a fair bit on common. There's unfortunately a good many Samurai who overlook the importance of Compassion, or treat it as some secondary tenet... It's refreshing to see that there are other Samurai who place the same value upon it."

"Oh! But I'm going on a bit, aren't I?" She chuckled. "What about yourself, Tsuruchi-san?"

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William
*Ichiro gives a small shake of his head and brings a hand up after nodding along.*

"No, Magistrate-sama. All of it is pertinent and applicable. The more I know about our clanmates, regardless of station, the better I can be of service. I appreciate the information."

*The memory of how little Compassion mattered at Kyuden Asinagabachi came flooding back momentarily. Ichiro lost his attention for a second and seemed to swim back from the deep to the present conversation.*

"We could all use more Compassion in what we do, yes... As for me, I hunted afield after we-well, seemingly the rest of us, anyway- took to the yumi over the sword. I found it prudent considering the climate after Asinagabachi. I chose to honor my father when it was impolitic, I guess. I stayed afield for more summers than I care to admit."

*Ichiro pauses a second, a look of consideration appearing and fading before he continues.*

"The truth of it is, I watched our family, and subsequent clan, like a visiting relative watches a niece or nephew grow in small glimpses. The changes, both good and ill, are drastic when you see them again and you don't lose the forest for sight of the trees. The seasons changed and so did our people at home. It became abundantly clear one day that I had done my duty but *Not* Done my duty. I had become an old man without a match or any real home besides a worn tent. One of the original few still from before Asinagabachi without an heir and family but not hated at home finally, so I was given leave for new duties. I had hunted those the Empire needed for inquiry long enough apparently. It was nice, finally, to be amongst our people wearing a daisho and only receiving the occasional glare versus what I had become accustomed to. The problem was, I didn't recognize the faces anymore. A stranger amongst my own clan. The ones I did recognize had somehow become old and others it is best not to speak of."

*Ichiro seems to trail off again.*

"Either way, here I am."

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Richard
Kana listened carefully to the man's story, her gaze sympathetic as she took in all of the details. She leaned forward at her desk, propping her head in one of her hands. "It seems you've seen a good many years pass, for better or worse, Tsuruchi-san. Also that you've seen your share of sacrifice in that time. To not consider betrothal or inheritance, *Especially* In our clan... I pray that the heavens see such devotion and honor it accordingly in the next life," She replied with a smile. 

"Hold on to such virtues when you're here. In a land where virtue is as hard to come by as... Um..." She paused for a moment. "Forgive me, I cannot quite think of the right analogy. Regardless though! It is precious, and somnething that should be preserved. When there's much in your path attempting to steer you in the wrong direction, it will help you stay on track!"

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William
*Ichiro bows deeply, his forehead to the floor and then up again.* 

"Thank you for listening, Magistrate-sama. I am embarrassed I droned on so long. Quite uncharacteristic, I assure you." 

*Another nervous deep bow follows.*

"Is there a duty you wish me to perform or duty to be discussed, Magistrate-sama? If only for me to save even a little face after such a diatribe, please." 

*A small smile materializes as he finishes to emphasize the point.*

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Richard
"Please, nothing you've said is anything you need to apologize for. You listened to me ramble, after all, and it is important for us to know the others of the clan, yes?" She smiled warmly, gesturing for him to sit up. "You need not prostrate yourself. But, if you're absolutely insistent on doing something... Perhaps pour us both a cup of sake from that bottle on the shelf?"

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William
*The smile stays as he bows to the Magistrate's open wisdom.* 

"It is as you say, Magistrate-sama."

*Rising to procure the sake, Ichiro takes his cushion again and begins pouring for the Magistrate and then himself.*

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Richard
Kana flashed him a toothy grin, taking a moment to raise her glass. "Well, Tsuruchi-san, a toast to new meetings, a new Mantis, and hopefully new adventures in Ryoko Owari Toshi! May Lady Sun see fit to ensure your stay here is an auspicious one. Kanpai!"

With that she threw her head back and downed the cup in a single drink, setting it back down on her desk. Even though it had only been a single drink, she still appeared unaffected by the sake.

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William
*Raising his cup in a salute to the Magistrate's hospitality, Ichiro mimics the toast.*

"Kanpai!"

*Likewise, Ichiro throws back the first round.*

"May we both be worthy of Fortunes' favor."

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