Julie
Temujin braced himself as he followed Hisa as far as she would take him towards the Ambassador's office, thanking her for her service. He did smile to see how far she'd come in her conduct, though he hoped she would be spared the strictest requirements of Duty.

He knew his superiors, as professional as they were, genuinely cared about their subordinates, but he often felt a sense of tension, both from them and within himself. That certainly didn't help his own bouts of self-doubt, no matter how much he tried to let training and experience guide him.

That nervous feeling of dread, as if he was destined to make a mistake, was in full force here. But it wasn't because of the report he was here to give about what he'd scouted out lately, from the rumours that the inactive Shiso Kakumei were offering 'counsel' to any seeking them out, to the fact that their friends the Mantis had some of their own Minor Clan struggles with these Otters.

It was because, after all of that, in true Unicorn fashion, he was going to suggest his betrothal to Kana for the sake of the Clan. And tell Kazuko about his feelings for her.

*Leaving our lords to decide everything for us like everyone else might seem less daunting. But I wouldn't have it any other way; at least here, I have a chance to fight for it.*

Finally, the time had come. Quickly steadying his breath, the Shinjo followed protocol. And once he was summoned in, he would do his Duty.

And more besides.

"Good day, Utaku-sama. Here are my recent fndings of the city's affairs..."

*But for her, I'd do anything that didn't harm or threaten the Clan.*

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Ann
The report, while interesting, was routine at best. Kazuko had planned to go out to train today, but Temujin had specifically requested he deliver his report in person. So, here she was, in her office across from the Shinjo, dressed in functional clothes aiming for freedom of movement rather than form. Still, she did always promise her offices were always open, and she would give any samurai under her care who needed to speak her full attention.

"New informations networks are a dangerous prospect. Often in their enthusiasm to prove themselves they strain the truth or overextend their hands. They could prove useful however." Minor Clans seemed to keep popping up around here, which was a unique challenge. She stroked her chin thoughtfully. "As for the Mantis and Otter Clan problems, it is of no concern to us for now. Should they wish to seek our help they know where to find us. Until then, let them see how far they can make it alone. Perhaps it will provide more leverage to any future negotiations."

Even as she was saying the words, a strange sensation washed over her. Kazuko was sounding more and more a diplomat, seeking political advantage in every movement. She could not say she liked the feeling. "Thank you for the updates, Shinjo-san. However, these could have easily been provided as written briefs for me to review. So I must ask: what other matter is there you wish me to know that requires directly speaking with me?"

Perhaps some news on the Hare hunt, or a weakness of our enemies that we can exploit. It must be of some import.

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Julie
Normally, the scout was content to have routine reports delivered on parchment. But indeed, this was no ordinary matter.

As always, Kazuko was certainly both intimidating and inspiring. She had a keen mind that remained sharp even off the battlefield, though a diplomat's desk might have certainly bridled the warrior spirit she was raised with.

"Understood, Utaku-sama." Temujin briefly acknowledged after her initial observations. "For now, we will keep our eyes and ears open, but our hands still."

He made a mental note that Shinjo Inadoma-san would be most skilled at navigating these whisperers. Their duties took them in different paths, but now and then he made time to consult his kinsman on urban matters. And simply see how he and his family were doing.


And then came the heart of the matter, as she so handily deduced. Temujin steadied himself, his heart beating faster as he spoke.

"That is correct, Utaku-sama. It is... Well, no getting around it, it is both a Clan matter and a personal one."

Inwardly, he flinched at his own awkward description. But then he thought of Kana, and what he was here for, and that kept him firmly in place.

Straightening up, he steeled his resolve and continued.

"Utaku-sama. I wish to propose a betrothal between myself and the Mantis Magistrate: Moshi Kana-san."

*In true Unicorn fashion. Proposing the match to your lord if one hasn't already been arranged.*

He almost let loose with all the reasons and factors he had prepared in his mind. Notions of political gain, solidifying alliances, benefiting the Clan. As well as the closeness they shared, and his own prior relationship.

But he knew that Kazuko, in her role as a leader, would most certainly know such reasons. He would answer if prompted, but he wanted to avoid coming across as if he was lecturing her on something she didn't know.

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Ann
*Well. How interesting.*

A raised eyebrow was the only immediate response from Kazuko at the Shinjo's words. It was fortuitous that he would consider such a pairing after the conversation she recently concluded with Ide Takuma. Fortuitous but also worrying. Did Mai know already? Was she using this to try and manipulate a more favorable marriage arrangement? She could not put it past the Mantis.

"A sudden, if interesting, proposition, Shinjo-san. We should discuss this matter further." Giving Fuyuko a knowing nod, the servant willed a bottle of sake and cups seemingly out of thin air. "Tell me why you find this match auspicious and worthy of bringing to my ears, Shinjo-San."

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Julie
"*Hai*, Utaku-sama." 

He understood the offer of sake. As was traditional, he would pour (or offer to) for Kazuko first, then himself, and not be too eager to drink, taking his cue from her.

"Of course, there are the benefits to our ties with the Mantis. They grow closer to us, and have a connection to preserve, shaping their dealings with others." Temujin said as he returned to his seat. "It might not fully bring them in as an ally, but it could be an important step towards that, and benefiting from their command of trade by the river routes. As well as their willingness to take *Action*."

*She knows these reasons for the Clan. Any halfway responsible samurai would. But at least I can show that I'm halfway responsible. And aware that the Crane tend to be... Passive.*

With the initial political ground laid, the Shinjo felt some relief, having voiced them. Now, though, were the points beyond them.

"There is also a stronger possibility that the proposal will be accepted," He added, "Given our improved relations. The Mantis are ambitious, and keen to press any advantage, of course... But I believe they would also be more cooperative."

An obvious point, perhaps, but relevant; he knew that proposals being refused was a real issue courtiers had to combat, and some had extremely lopsided terms as a result.

Finally... His cheeks blushed lightly.

"And... More personally... I've grown quite close with Moshi Kana-san. It could make the match stable. Secure."

He framed it politically. But he wouldn't deny his personal stake in it. As much because of how much Kana meant to him as because his superior deserved the full picture.

*Including any... Past relations.*

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Ann
Fuyuko would intercede when the Shinjo moved to fill the cups, deftly moving them away and doing her duty to the samurai. The Shinjo, though seeming more than a little troublesome when he first arrived, had slowly grown on the heimin. Especially when he began to help her daughter with her duties. She hoped her lady agreed with her opinion of the man.

Kazuko took the cup and swirled the liquid inside it, looking down into the glass as if it held some matter of import. Matters of love and heart were things she kept closed off as much as possible. It was inconvenient for a samurai of her status to become too emotionally attached to someone, she told herself. Even her fiancé, Makoto—she was *Fond* Of him, yet that was the extent she allowed herself to feel. Perhaps that was why they were yet to wed; she knew he deserved better, more, but was unable or unwilling to give it.

Of course Kazuko understood the political implications of such a match. Cementing some ties, breaking others, the ebb and flow of alliances and duties. There were avenues that must be explored, discussions that must be had. She could not simply approve of this blindly.

Yet when she saw the joy radiating off the man . . .

"You ask for this matter simply and directly, Shinjo-san, and so I will respond in kind." The Ambassador sighed slowly, feeling the weight of responsibility far heavier now than moments before. Her eyes moved back up to meet the scout's. "What you suggest has merit, and is in line with certain suggestions I have received to move our relationship with the Mantis forward. However, it is a complicated matter. It could antagonize our allies within the city, scarce and silent as they may be. In addition, not only is Moshi-san of higher status, but her family follows traditions similar to mine.

"In short, as the matter stands we would be losing a valuable asset now within the clan for a *Chance* At long-term gain. That cannot be allowed to pass." The tactician's mind was moving now, trying to determine which path would lead to victory for her clan. It was a murky decision, and one that could not be made lightly. "However, I believe perhaps a sufficient negotiation could be made to allow for such a match."

While the taisa did not radiate warmth in her words (did she ever?), there was an underlying sincerity to her final statement. Kazuko truly did want the best for those under her command, and if it was within her power she would provide it as long as it was advantageous. "However, I must warn you not to be *Overly* Fond of this Moshi Kana while we seek terms. The Mantis might use your familiarity as leverage, and other unscrupulous meddlers may even seek to use it as a point of scandal, especially if it were to be revealed to the Crane before we had the opportunity."

Kazuko took a sip of the sake. She knew there was nothing to fear, though. "Of course, given a scout's understanding of informational discretion, I am certain you have kept this relationship equally discreet. It is not as if the two of you have been parading through the streets together at all times."

That would be ridiculous of course. No one whose duty involved gathering sensitive information would ever be so foolish as to put their private life on display for all to see. Such blatant disregard would be flying in the face of said duty.

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Julie
Temujin nodded understandingly. Though his personal feelings were clear, there was also a sort of pragmatic acceptance of the issues and obstacles raised by Kazuko. He wondered if that was a result of his Shinjo heritage or his Ide upbringing.

Most importantly, though not warm, she was sincere. And that, he appreciated.

"My thanks, Utaku-sama. Indeed, it is as you say: Matters of politics and culture make this complicated terrain."

*Alright, that's my scouting metaphor for the day, let's not push it.*

"I know well that my prospects are lesser than hers. The possibility of marrying out is not one I take lightly; my heart and skills belong to the Unicorn."

Matters she had already raised, but at least he could show awareness and cooperation. Having said that, the Shinjo bowed respectfully from his seat and rose promptly.

"So I will trust in your good judgement. And if there is anything I can do to strengthen our position, I will heed any command."

Then came the matter of being *Overly fond*. Though he did not break face there and then, there was a twitch of the hand, in the lips, which spoke of an effort to keep his cool.

No getting around it: If he hadn't been such a besotted fool, he would have very much appreciated her practical concerns. But they were speaking plainly, and he had already resolved to be honest with the full picture, rather than evasive to achieve his desire through ommission.

"Understood, Utaku-sama. As it stands, we have spent time together outside of our duties, and we strive to not stand out; I will redouble my vigilance and moderation. Though I must also inform you that we... Are sometimes discussed in the rumour mills of our respective Clans."

*To say nothing of the others beyond our hearing.*

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Ann
Kazuko's surprisingly warm demeanor at the moment chilled slightly. She knew matters would be kept secure among the Unicorn, and she highly doubted Mai wanted to jeopardize the burgeoning working relationship between the two clans by causing scandal. Certainly she would have precautions in place for this as well. Still, at the thought of this being spread in rumors did not sit well with her. "I see. For the time being then, redouble your efforts to keep such rumors from spreading outside of our respective clans, especially into the hands of those who would seek to use it to our folly in the Scorpion and Phoenix."

A reasonable request, she thought to herself. There were plenty of ways the two could continue to meet and ~~do the nasty~~ express their affection to each other without putting anyone's reputations on the line. It was technically within her right to cut off all non-business contact between the two, and it would have been the wise choice. The safe choice. But Kazuko understood that would only foster resentment, and while this was not her area of expertise she was aware that matters of the heart were seldom able to be easily controlled.

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Julie
It did not escape him that his report on rumours was less than ideal. But thankfully, his resolve held thanks to his love for Kana, his duty to the Clan, and his respect for Kazuko, so he could appreciate her request's generosity.

"Of course, Utaku-sama. I will be sure not to foolishly draw attention, and will keep Moshi-san apprised of this," He replied with a quick, sincere bow. "I am at your command if you have further orders for this."

By all accounts he was in the clear. It wasn't a guarantee, but he trusted the promise of negotiations, and had been honest about the matter of him and Kana.

That was the present and the future, however. Now came the matter of the past.

"There is one more thing in this matter for me to clarify, Utaku-sama." Temujin admitted, an uncertain mix of emotions held behind practiced calm. "A matter which is... Dormant, but not gone: A past relationship."

Granted, she was the great war hero, who had access to knowledge of those under her command. She might already know.

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Ann
Of course, being the Ambassador, Kazuko knew a decent amount of the lives of the samurai under her care before they came to the city. Temujin was no different, and there was an added layer of information due to the nature of his past relationship. Knowledge of the goings on of Shiotome elsewhere was not necessary but it was often freely shared.

The Battle Maiden before Temujin now folded her hands together and listened while he spoke. It was strange that he brought it up now, given that it was not a high matter of precedence in her own reports. "I am aware of your friendship with Utaku Kaede-san, but I was unaware of any promises of betrothal. If this is correct then there should be no issue. Unless there is something else at play."

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Julie
Temujin shook his head in response to his superior's assessment. Though he focused on her, he also remained aware of the woman who served as her voice. Fuyuko was an able and dedicated servant, and a family woman besides. Disastrous first meetings aside, he tried to be considerate when possible to her as well.

"No, Utaku-sama, you are correct. Politically, there are no betrothals or any such arrangements, official or otherwise."

*Not sure how I feel about her knowing this, but I'm not that surprised.*

"Still, I felt it only right that you have the full picture. We were... Close... As children. And closer whenever fate saw fit for our paths to cross. We also exchange letters on occasion."

Given his expressiveness, he knew it was inevitable some emotion would slip through, but he hoped he could keep his composure before the war hero who likely gave broader orders Kaede would have followed.

He remembered how it pained him, how he'd argued the matter with her, how reluctantly he had to accept the situation. But since coming to this city, with all he learned and all the people he met, his perspective had widened. Enough to better see Kaede's position, and the new one before him.

"But we have accepted that those times would not last forever; she has her duties, and I have mine. If necessary, I am prepared to make the matter clearer."

So when he spoke, while there was some lingering emotion, there was also frank acceptance.


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Ann
"If you feel it necessary I give you permission to do so." Kazuko waved a hand dismissively. She did not understand why he felt it such a serious matter, really. He had a dalliance with a Battle Maiden, nothing official or in writing to bind them together, why worry? But if it caused him such distress she was hardly one to stop his actions so long as they did not impact his service to the clan. "I am certain if some degree of closure you seek you will find it.

"Is there anything else, Shinjo-san?"

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Julie
Kazuko's nonchalance over this matter surprised Temujin, and it briefly showed in his widening eyes and the brief pause before his reply.

*Best not to push it, then.*

"No, Utaku-sama," The scout replied with a shake of his head. "I will stay alert and discreet, and keep you informed."

With the matter concluded, Temujin bowed deeply in respect, then rose to face the Ambassador and her servant. He had gratitude in his eyes even as he had restored the dutiful evenness of his expression.

"And... Thank you for hearing me out."

Once she gave him leave, he would depart. A part of him even wanted to offer her a listening ear, as thanks for the good turns she did for him. But he also understood that such a gesture could be taken as a suggestion that she was weakening and in need of assistance.

He did find it oddly interesting, though. Kazuko seemed to think it was no big deal that he and Kaede were once together. He, on the other hand, thought it the kind of whispers of past loves that clung to samurai, the sort of thing malefactors would love to exploit in a web of half-truths and insinuations.

*Well. She's a* Taisa, *And I was an aide to an Ide. We definitely see things differently.*

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Ann
"So, tell me about this Moshi Kana so I may have a better perspective on the auspiciousness of this match."

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Julie
The taisa's words surprised him for a moment, as he thought they were done. But he was certainly prepared for this; he had been blessed to get to know Kana, after all.

With a respectful acknowledgement, Temujin kept his focus on his superior and spoke. While he had showed hints of uncertainty and doubt before, in this he seemed quite assured and decisive.

"As a magistrate and a shugenja of Lady Sun, Moshi-san is most accomplished. Friendly and encouraging, yet also focused and learned. A dependable subordinate, and a good friend. Highly valued by Moshi-sama and her fellow Mantis."

He may have begun with Kana's professional side, but there was warm recollection in his expression and voice. It deepened as the smile he repressed made it to his voice.

"She is infectiously cheerful. But she is also attentive, and knows when to be serious. I lo...*Greatly admire* Both of these sides to her."

Well, the foal was out of the stable at this point, but he had to at least *Try* And maintain decorum!

Finally, the Shinjo blushed lightly, and he spoke... Almost timidly.

"And... She quite enjoys snacks and pillowbooks."

Very likely unnecessary for these purposes. Yet absolutely precious to him.

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Ann
"I see." Whether or not the more personal reasons resonated with the Ambassador would remain unknown behind her stoic demeanor. However, Kazuko *Was* Pleased such a match would bring one of her samurai such happiness. Also, this information would provide some ammunition for the next time she met this Moshi Kana. "What does she bring that captures your heart so in a way that Utaku Kaede-san did not?"

If the Shinjo did not know, then did he really have the connection he conveyed? She did not take him for a man of loose morals, but if that were the case and he was but one who ran from woman to woman depending on what met his fancy she would also need to know this before going into a negotiation. As important as exploiting another's weaknesses was shoring up one's own.

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Julie
Temujin folded his hands behind his back, wringing at his wrists as his thoughts raced.

"I will admit, I have often wondered that. If I were to put it into words..."

Both were different, yet precious to him. One the undeniable bond of his past, the other a blessing of the present. And in that reflection, he found his answer.

"Utaku-san and I share precious memories. But... It always felt like we were reaching for the past."

It was a heavy admission. And it was only part of the picture; she would always be a dear friend, even if they couldn't always be more.

But saying that aloud, even in this situation, was also closure in its own way. And with that truth, he was able to frame what he saw in Kana.

"With Moshi-san... I feel like we are striving towards the future. Together."

He loved them both, as different as they were. But *That* Was the difference in his heart. And what made this worth fighting for.

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Ann
"Good. It would have proved a far more challenging negotiation were I to discover my scout was of low moral caliber." Had it come from anyone else the words would have been humorous. Of course this was not the case for the steel cold taisa. There was not a joke to be had here, right?

"The children of Shinjo do not forget our past. Yet as the Lady of the Five Winds herself once said, we must always seek the next horizon." It was this principle which shaped the Unicorn to be the force for progress the Empire so desperately needed. The balance between respect of the past and striving for the future. It was what she had sought to do with the Phoenix, before it burned away. A brief shadow crossed her face before she continued. "If you truly believe this is a future worth striving for, know you have my *Personal* Support in the endeavor."

She could not promise where the tides of politics would carry this request, and as Ambassador she would follow such without faltering. Yet hopefully there would be some comfort when it fell apart to know it was not due to some malice on Kazuko's part. She eyed Fuyuko, who refilled the cups. An indication she wished to speak further with Temujin, but she would wait for his response first.

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Julie
*Was that... A joke? Then again, with how carefree I am, it could be completely serious.*

Either way, she had reacted favourably, and he was *Not* Going to screw that up!

The scout listened with care to his superior's words, spoken through Fuyuko. The brief darkening of her demeanour was a concern, but he gathered it was not directed at him.

*She holds the Clan on her shoulders here; there'll always be something.*

Her expression of support, however, visibly moved him, and he bowed deeply.

"Thank you, Utaku-sama," He said respectfully. "You honour me, and it is deeply appreciated."

As he rose again, there was both a soft, restrained elation, as well as a kind of awareness in his eyes. Knowledge that this was not a guaranteed thing... And sincere appreciation for her 'unofficial' support regardless.

He saw the cups being refilled, and nodded with a short, respectful bend. Thankfully, his training with the Ide prepared him for the meaning of the cups; only when he had completely drained his and declined a refill would it be clear he was done, though still subject to Kazuko's permission to leave.

To show his willingness, he took up his cup and had a small sip, setting it down after to show his willing presence.

"And if there is anything further you would know about this, Utaku-sama, I am glad to answer."

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Ann
"I do not need to speak further on this matter, but there is another of import." The Ambassador nodded as he returned to sit, taking another sip of the drink. Some time has passed, and Kazuko had given the scout space to process recent events. Still, the health and well-being of her subordinates was important. A shame the taisa rarely considered her own welll-being with the same concern she showed to her fellow samurai.

"I finished reading over the reports on our scouting expedition. How are you after . . . Everything?" Even here, in the safety of the Ide Residence, security was a constant concern. Kazuko was averse to speak too freely on matters of a sensitive nature such as this even within her own sanctuary. Yet, she needed to be certain Temujin was in a position to bear the weights soon to come.

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Julie
His expression grew more serious. Not as grim as it had been when it first happened, but it was clear he understood the weight of everything he had shared.

He understood it was of the utmost importance, so discretion was necessary. But so was honesty. As much for full transparency on his readiness as to honour the trust and concern shown by his superior.

"Better than I was, thank the Lady. Though I wouldn't deny that it still weighs on me."

To most, that would seem too vague by half. But Kazuko *Had* Been reading the reports, and stayed well-informed. She'd know the matter quite well, and be able to make an informed guess of how it affected him.

His expression lifted. Not from dropping the weight, but rising to meet it. And there was steady determination there as well. And respect for the name he gave next.

"But the *Chui*, Utaku Masanori-sama, helped me face it. So I have strived to learn from it, accept responsibility, without losing myself. To do *Better*."

A short pause. Memories aligned, thoughts and plans. And more of the warrior was visible in his eyes. Not blinded by shame or remorse, but aware and alert. Of himself, and what had gone by.

"And when the time comes, it is an error I hope to correct."


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Ann
"I have already begun looking for a posting that will fit Moto-san's new circumstances. A shame such a young warrior had her career cut short." In some sick way, Kazuko almost felt the young bushi had been the fortunate one. Moto Miho may not be able to hold a bow again, but she also was spared the vile conflict to come. A novice soldier should find their first taste of combat in an honorable skirmish, not this. "If you have any insights on her that could assist, I will readily accept them."

That Masanori provided a stabilizing force was no surprise to the Ambassador. He was always good at calming others, even when he himself was near explosive anger. A valuable gift for a war leader to have. "I am glad to hear your resolve to rise to meet it. I will of course defer to the requests of my second as the operation is his, but when the time comes I will recommend you join his detachment. Utaku-san could use your skills and stability in the oncoming storm."

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Julie
"Thank you, Utaku-sama." Temujin replied with a short but proper bow. "I will stay prepared until then, and always at your command."

His expression softened a bit with his reflections on Moto Miho. On the whole, he was glad she lived, and could live to hopefully find a good purpose and life. But he had enough bushi within him to mourn the loss of her martial path.

"And I am happy to share what I can of Moto-san, Utaku-sama. Great changes have passed, but from what I have seen," He replied, "She is down-to-earth and bold, with her share of wits. Court might be stifling... But her experience could serve her well in our Clan's stables."

For any other Clan, the thought of being assigned to the stables would be an unbearable humiliation. But at least among the Unicorn, while it wasn't as obviously prestigious, it was always respected as one of the foundations of their strength.

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Ann
"I will keep that in mind. Thank you Shinjo-san." Kazuko noted down the observations on Moto Miho. They lined up similarly to the reports she had on the young woman. Perhaps an auxiliary military position such as with the stables or quartermaster would be right up the girl's abilities without surrendering her fighting spirit to the courts. "I will inform you once I have updated word on the arrangement you seek. If there is nothing else, you are dismissed. Carry the Five Winds."

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Julie
"Understood, Utaku-sama. Then I will take my leave." Temujin stated with a respectful bow. "May they ever be at your back."

With that, the Shinjo departed to return to his room, begin planning things. And while his stride and posture were purposeful, perhaps even encouraged, he couldn't help but feel relieved.

*Compared to my first meeting? This went MUCH better. I raised the matter, with full accountability. Accepted as much as she could give. And she even unofficially supports this.*

Still, as he walked through the Residence from the Ambassador's room, his mind still stayed sharp and alert. Whether it was due to nature, training, or experience in this city, he couldn't say.

His courtship of Kana was first in his mind. But just as important were the matters of the Clan. Miho's potential reassignment. Their wider plans, and the need to stand ready for them.

And the fact that, though her shoulders were broad to bear them, these were still a number of heavy burdens to lay upon Kazuko. As with Masanori, it was a case of trusting their capacity, but understanding the cost to them.

*I hope she's got her own means to rest and refocus. Maybe her own romance?*

Temujin then spent the next half a minute wondering if that was inconceivable or within the realm of possibility.

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