Brett
Tonight was like any other within the Scorpion Gardens. The moon illuminated gracing the ponds, flora, and those that walked under its gleam. During the day many Samurai and other nobles walked through the tourist section. A very popular place among those of great status. However, when night came, only a few caretakers roamed alongside the various animals living in its ecosystem. Very often, few would find solace in these peaceful hours. One of those select few was Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto. 

After he was promoted and sent to the city, this was one of the few places the man could find serenity. Ryoko Owari Toshi; the city of lies. Its ambiance often haunted the Magistrate. Here you had many enemies and yet, a scarce amount of friends. In a way, this place could be an escape, finding calm in the storm of a city. Thus here the man sat on the grass, atop his knees Yutos eyes glared down at what sat on his lap. A small hare that found comfort and affection. 

There were many fauna, some exotic and others common within the bounds of their little paradise. Yuto often spent time and tended to them, thus he sat amongst a group of them. He wasn't the most experienced in tending to plants and flowers, but giving the proper caretakers a break from the animals was sufficient. This is where one didn't have to shed themselves of feeling, giving, and receiving a genuine embrace. 

The large Scorpion let his hair decorate the shoulders they coated. With only a red silk ribbon holding a bunch in a topknot. That same silk was probably what the man used as his veil to cover his face. Although Yuto found no need to hide while being here. Wearing a cherry red haori, beneath it was a black kimono, and around the waist a purple obi. Two pieces of His Daisho rested beside him on the grass. Even in the presence of a weapon, the animals were in no discomfort. He certainly wasn't expecting any company, but times like these were the best to find the clan magistrate. 

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Juanita
The gardens, indeed, were a place of respite and peace. Bayushi Kotori walked slowly down one of the many paths, carrying in one hand a small *Furoshiki* Bundle and cradling her pipa with the other arm. She hummed soft snatches of a song as she walked, often pausing and humming a section again with a slight modification. 

During one such pause she spotted a familiar figure in the grass, and a smile came unbidden to her lips. Kotori continued her walk which would bring her close by.

"Bayushi-san, you should wear your hair like that more often." 

Her own hair was still worn up and decorated with an array of gold and jeweled pins and combs; aside from her baggage, the only thing suggesting she was not ready to enter court immediately was a kimono of more simplistic cut and style.

"What a beautiful night this is. Would it not be a marvel is all evenings could be so peaceful?" The question spoken with a wistfulness which only came to those with the hearts of poets and ill-fated lovers.

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Donald
*Sayako takes silent steps into this quiet space. She isn't trying to hide herself, but she has been controlling her pace for the better half of her life. She had spent most of the day walking the city among the peasants, slipping through the crowds, taking in every detail, and now welcomes the solitude and more limited exposure the garden offers. Before her, she observes the tall man from behind and the decorated woman beside him, learning what she can before approaching them. Sayako notes their familiarity, as she had with many others today and judges it prudent to err on the side of respect with her as well, at least until she knows exactly who she is. 

When she is satisfied, Sayako takes silent steps forward. Her own appearance carries an opposing mood to her soon to be magistrate, as well as separating her from the woman as well. Her hair is bundled up and held in place by crossing kanzashi, and her face is covered by her butterfly mask. Her shugenja robes strike a balance between tightness and freedom, allowing her enough comfort, while not also demanding careful movement.

She stops her approach several paces away, both as a sign of respect and a gesture of non aggression. Her fist presses into the ground and she drops to one knee, her head held low. After a few seconds in this pose, she finally addresses the man without moving and finally makes more noise than the soft click of leather to stone.* "I heard you are in need of my skills sir? The Soshi family has sent me to be your tool after worrying reports had made their way out of Ryoko Owari Toshi."

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Brett
As time passed the man found a pleasurable hum fill his ears. Had he not been sharp he'd have thought the melody to just come to him, but alas Yuto found company. Bayushi Kotori, a woman whom he had just recently welcomed to the city. As of now, there wasn't much for her to do, certain arrangements had not been settled yet. Despite her brief time, he was curious about how she spent it. One could assume fondly with her wrapped furoshiki and pipa. 

"Your plaudits' well received, Bayushi-san, I find it normally gets in the way when exercising my work so I choose to wear it up most of the time." He replied, speaking in his usual meek tone. Yuto figured to properly greet the woman, standing up he gently cradled the Hare in his arms. Letting the other small fauna scatter about as he raised himself to full height. Bowing enough to welcome her presence and not to disturb the Hares comfort in his arms. 

"The peaceful nights are always appreciated, but what truly makes them a marvel are those you find under the moonlight." He spoke and smiled afterward. Continuing: "Your rays haven't gone dim, I take it the city has treated you well?" He inquired softly. 

It was then he took notice of yet another presence. Stopping several paces, his eyes squinted not detecting any danger. Of course, her abundant colors and fashion choices said as much. After she exchanged brief words, he extended a bow. Properly greeting the woman. 

"Soshi Sayako, I had not expected you so soon. Forgive the errant setting of our meeting. I am Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto, acting Magistrate of the Scorpion here in the city. Welcome."

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Juanita
Seeing such a physically imposing man holding such an adorable creature was so unexpected, and just so charming, that the little Scorpion could not help but laugh. There was no scorn or mockery there, just undisguised delight. 

"I see you have already found pleasant company, Bayushi-san." She nodded to indicate the hare, which seemed completely at ease in Yuto's arms. 

"This city is like a puzzle box filled with shadows." She glanced up towards the night sky momentarily. "But I enjoy puzzles. I have made the acquaintance of several samurai of other clans, most of which have been very cordial. And, I met Tansaku-sama. She is a very clever woman." 

She was poised to speak again, when another figure seemed to melt out of the darkness. A woman wearing an exquisite butterfly shaped mask greeted Yuto deferentially and introduced herself. She appeared to be a recent addition to the city, even more newly arrived than herself. 

Waiting patiently for an opportune moment, she dipped into an elegant, respectful bow. "Good evening to you, Soshi-san. I am Bayushi Kotori. Please, excuse me. I am sure you two have much to discuss." Kotori smiled pleasantly to the both of them, inclining her head. 

"I shall be in the Pavillion further into the gardens, should you like to hear a spot of music."

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Donald
*Sayako raises her head to nod and acknowledge the short, beautiful woman and her words. Her attention then returns to the man.*"You needn't apologize, sir." *She responds softly. Stray strands of hair fall and cover parts of her face, but she remains still. She is focused on making the best impression possible and does her best to demonstrate full respect.*

"I often have to meet people at weird times of day and weird locations, as I assume you can imagine. It comes with my line of duty. Are there any details you can give me on what you need. My briefing was very vague." *The breeze blows through the garden and makes her robes dance gently with it. The kamis of the wind had always favored her, and were never too far from her side. Their touch tells her to relax, that she shall have plenty of time to prove herself, and needn't get things perfect.*

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Brett
The scorpion had always been fond of animals growing up, here he knew how to handle and take care of them. Upon seeing Kotori let out a laugh, the man felt a sense of pride. Hare were cautious and frightened creatures, yet here one was within his arms feeling a sense of security. Yuto normally would not conduct himself or show emotion so openly, but this place was like his solitude. 

"It gladdens me to know your time here has been pleasant. Soon you'll be able to put those acquaintances of yours to good use." He spoke briefly before giving Sayako his attention. 

The Soshi quite certainly had a unique personality. She seemed ready to go, though Yuto however had intended to enjoy the night. It was late and this was a rather informal setting, a proper introduction would have to come sooner. 

"First, come. Tell me about yourself, Soshi-san. The night would be wasted if we did not enjoy it. I can brief you on a few matters, but I'll save the most for a more formal meeting." He gestured her to follow, as the Rokugo did seek to hear Kotoris music. It was good to acquaint all his agents, now was a better time than ever. If they were newly arrived, they could go over specific matters. 

Kneeling down, he set the little rabbit softly so he could run off and be with the others. Enjoying his time with the animals, he now had to focus on the two women in his presence. "Knowing your skillset Soshi-san would allow me to utilize you to your favorable advantage."

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Juanita
Kotori departed before the two other Scorpion, resuming her humming as she did. Perhaps twenty feet away, she stopped abruptly, and then hurried as fast as she could towards the pavillion where she had encountered Tansaku; she'd had a break-through with her song, and did not want to forget it. 

Fortunately lanterns had already be lit in the open sided structure, casting a warm, pleasing glow all around. 

A portable writing set was produced with great haste along with a writing book, and she proceeded to almost frantically transcribe her composition. After a few minutes of work, the brush was placed down with a triumphant smile. 

"Another section completed," Kotori remarked to no one in particular, still smiling. Pleased at her progress, she sat down there and began running through some warm-up exercises, fingers moving with a speed and dexterity that would impress even some of the best confidence tricksters. 

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Donald
"As you wish." *The young shugenja returns to her feet as requested and approaches the two clan-mates and stands by their sides. She breaths for a moment, trying to compose her thoughts. The wind picks up a bit, catching the trio in it's caress. As the woman leaves, Sayako briefly feels regret for not answering sooner, feeling she gave the impression that she didn't feel comfortable sharing them in her presence. Regardless, she finishes composing her thoughts and begins to answer.* 

"My skill set is focused on the many aspects of subterfuge and espionage. The wind kami have favored me since I was young, and aid me in this." *Sayako reaches up to her mask and pulls it off with one hand, and makes small gestures with the other. By the time her face is revealed and turned her head towards the man, it has changed in appearance enough to allow others to think her to be her own cousin, or someone else.* "They can disguise my face-" *She accentuates this statement by calling the kami to change her face again, this time with more overt gestures. Many features remain similar, like her soft eyes, but enough change has occurred that it would be effective in a pinch.* "For example. With more effort they can change my entire body more substantially. I also have them carry messages vast distances for me, and they can make unwanted observers oblivious to my actions." *Sayako then turns to return looking over the garden and pauses for a moment, not knowing if she should bring up how she also uses them to heal those that are injured. She decides against it, as it isn't doesn't aid her primary focus, but the smallest twitch in her face betrays that minor conflict*

"As it would be foolish to rely on the kami exclusively and exhaust their good will, I have practiced how to accomplish similar tasks on my own. I have learned how to use make-up to alter my appearance, and even behave like those of the other clans." *Pride fills her voice a bit as she explains the skills she's worked hard on cultivating.* " I can share their values, mimic their bravado,their greed, I know enough of their customs that I can truly be believed to be one of their own. When I have been accepted, I can maneuver among them, taking note of those small things they would rather not say and manipulate them to aid our ends." *And as she revealed her capabilities to the young magistrate, she hadn't once looked in his direction for a second time, preferring the tranquil view.*

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Brett
He raised an eyebrow as Kotori who walked before them suddenly bolted to the Pavillion. However, he didn't turn his attention away from Sayako. As the wind graced them with its kiss Yuto pushed his hair back, letting it fall down his shoulders and Back. Walking slowly as she explained her espionage and other exploits, to openly admit this was bold. It showed a great deal of trust and dedication to her assigned Lord. 

His eyes widened in near disbelief, changing her face not once but multiple times. Had he not known of the possibility Yuto may have passed out witnessing it. Keeping his stoic nature, the Scorpion was able to maintain a solid face. 

"These skills are quite valuable but must be used with caution. I seek not to put you in such situations so soon, as you've just arrived in the city." He spoke gently, valuing the lives of his subordinates. However, when she turned away, taking a moment before continuing with the Wind Kami. He sensed something was amiss. || Investigation 4 - Notice Emphasis || 

"Taking on identifying as others and delivering messages vast distances without notice is quite a skill. But it is not befitting for you, you will need other skills to maintain your guise. What else can you do?" 

He continued walking, stopping just before they reached the Pavillion. Whether or not she wanted to share more information was up to her. However, as a Magistrate, he was taught to see between the lines of these interactions. 

"There is another Shugenja I'd like to put you in contact with. Yogo no Tansaku Kiyo, a kuge who serves as our wardmaster in the city. You'll find she isn't as enthusiastic, but her duty is unquestionable. I sense you two will find an asset in one another when achieving your goals." 

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Juanita
Once settled in what was quickly becoming one of her favorite places to practice, the little Scorpion began to play. It began as a playful, sweet melody, light and airy. But, after a time, that same melody changed key and became richer, fuller, more sensual. The tempo changed as well, a jaunty run through a field of wildflowers slowed to an intimate walk beneath the stars through that same field, fingertips brushing together under the cover of sheltering darkness. Then, it changed again, the melody all but disappearing behind a fast, aggressive flow of notes: anger, conflict, betrayal. 

As she played, the expression on Kotori's face was transcendent. Her eyes were at times tightly closed and brows knit as though in pain, and at others, her lashes trembled like one shyly awaiting a kiss. Her head swayed and nodded ever so slightly in time with the song.

A sudden shiver stopped the song abruptly. What was that wind? How very peculiar. It been a calm night before that, with little more than a gentle breeze blowing, and while the wind had by no means been a gale, it swept in so suddenly Kotori could not help but stop and lean over, looking towards the sky. Was there a storm coming? She listened hard for the sounds of distant thunder, but hearing none, she resolved she would practice for just a bit longer.

Taking advantage of the pause, she made a few more notes to her transcription. 

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Donald
"That is wise. I yet have to truly understand who should be avoided, and who can be exploited." *Sayako continues to stare in the distance, listening to and pondering the man's words. She thinks about how much to reveal to him and starts hearing a beautiful song begin playing in the distance. The gentle and light parts of the melody, the serene night, and Yuto's words give her confidence to reveal the talent her family frowned upon during her training.* "We are in agreement, on that point, sir. Simply playing the part doesn't fully convince others that you are on their side." *Still, she relies on trying to couch these talents in how useful they are, but Sayako is convinced that at least that way he will accept them.* "I find that they are more willing to accept you if they find you useful as well. If you help them, even if it is to the temporary detriment to the clan."
*She reaches up slowly and pulls one of her kanzashi free, letting her hair fall a bit as some strands come loose.* "I put myself often in a role primed just to do that. The kind shugenja that uses the spirits to aid others." *She turns to her superior and looks straight into his eyes, conveying how truthfully she believes her own words.* "One who dedicates her life to those who are ailing in some way. Who heals the sick and injured." *She leaves out the part about how being seen that way gives her a sense of joy outside of fulfilling her mission. The shugenja then moves to demonstrate this ability as well. She takes the kanzashi and jabs her arm. Not so deep as to risk seriously damaging her, but deep enough that it is obviously more than a small poke.

Through gritted teeth, she tugs a bit on the tool, then drops it and starts chanting. She keeps her arm displayed to Yuto as she calls on the nearby water spirits to aid her, and soon the sign of their involvement becomes apparent. While the effects take longer to manifest, the blood flow begins to slow a little for those who are observant enough to catch it.*
Brett
The sweet melody in the background was drowned out by the shock that was Sayako. Her willingness to do these demonstrations was quite ghastly. Yuto, a warrior trained to be more than a mere sword-wielding samurai had been desensitized to many things. Yet the woman made the Man think and question her depths. She seemed the sort to fulfill any order given, while she didn't seem inherently dreadful or abominable. Sayako certainly had a desire to prove herself. 

Keeping a stoic face he spoke, "You know, a mere explanation would have been nice. While your judgment is not yet questioned, I hope such extremities aren't displayed to others. Unless necessity demands it." He made sure not to sound too disciplinary. Truth be told he was still surmising an impression of the Soshi. The last two Soshi he met didn't make good impressions, and judging by his relations, their family sending one to aid him brought suspicion. 

"Your skills will be put to use and appreciated. I'm certain you'll get along quite well with Tansaku-san. Since we've clearly assessed your skills, I suppose you can ask whatever inquiries you possess." 

It was around that time he finally decided to enter the Pavillion. Joining Kotori as she played her melody, a perfect guise to wash their conversation beneath the sound. That and Yuto simply wanted to hear her talents. "I hope we aren't disturbing you, Bayushi-san."

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Juanita
Little feet kicked slightly as she bent over her book and transcribed more of her newest work, humming all the while. 

"I hope we aren't disturbing you, Bayushi-san."

"Not at all, Rokugo-san! I am delighted you have chosen to favor me with your presence." She looked up at him (or the both of them, if Sayako accompanied him) with a bright smile, shaking her brush off over the side of the pavilion. "There was the most curious wind a few moments ago!" Adjusting her posture, she settled her pipa in its proper place in her lap and made a minute adjustment to a tuning peg.

"Please, allow me to entertain you," The little Scorpion's eyes were still smiling, though the rest of her expression was composed and serious as befitted a trained performer.

She began a different song then, slow and calming. The way she was able to manipulate the strings made it sound almost as if there were two people playing at once, the tonal chords still sounding even as other notes were played. This song had a melody that evoked the sound of gentle waves lapping at a shoreline, glittering under the light of Lord Moon while a cool breeze fluttered one's clothes. A sense of being alone, but not loneliness. Serenity in the presence of one's thoughts. Calm. *Peace.* ||
Donald
*Sayako continues her chant, tuning out the world to effectively guide the spirits in mending her self-inflicted wound. After several moments, the wound is sealed like new. She then reaches into her pouch for a bandage and cleans the remaining blood from her wound and the hair stick.*

*Seeing Yuto's still response, Sayako questions her decision to go so far. She takes a second to digest where she may have gone wrong and then respond.* "Of course, sir. My apologies. I just figured seeing a demonstration would be more effective than merely being told. I swear that I don't make a habit of harming myself, it just is such a minor thing when you have abilities like that. Not pleasant, but in instances like that, it is similar to getting whacked by bokken during training for me."

*She walks by the man, and slips the Kanzashi back into her hair and reattaches the mask to her face.* "I have two major things on my mind, one of which you said we would address formally. My second question is what is Tansaku-san like? How does she tend to wield the power of the spirits?" 

*Their walk brings them back in the presence of the young woman, she gives her another small bow.* "That wind was likely from me, Bayushi-san. The wind spirits have always had an affinity for me, and usually aren't that far away. It usually isn't all that noticeable unless I exert myself and my abilities."

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Brett
Smiling as Kotori assured them they had not disturbed her. The Rokugo took his seat as she began to play her music, he of course waited for Soshi Sayako to get seated before continuing their conversation. For a brief moment, he closed his eyes. Clearing his head, the vassal was a troubled man and used these Gardens as an escape. With a deep breath, he found Zen, opening both irises as they reflected off the natural light. || Void 4 - Clear Mind || 

"I cannot detail the extent of Tansaku-san's capability. However, she is a practical woman, a realist. The Wardmaster has skillsets outside of spellcasting, I believe you two will find one another acceptable. She spends much of her time in the temple district in the city tending to the shrines." He spoke softly, not wanting to interrupt Kotoris playing. Of course, he'd eventually turn and address her talent. 

"I was never good with any instruments, you're quite the talent to use one so flawlessly. Once you've been installed as management over the Gardens, I believe you'll attract many assets." He smiled, before shifting his gaze back to Sayako. 

"Soon I will be organizing a meeting with our trustworthy agents within the City. Since I believe you to be one of them, I'll let you know the time and place. For now, I'd like you to build connections and get on well with our other associates. There are other great clans here in the city that do not trust us, we must strive to change that." 

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Juanita
The song continued on for a few minutes—not so long as to drag, but not so short as to seem incomplete either—before coming to a soft, sort of twinkling end, like the last breeze blowing across a lake before sunrise, still caught in that magical period between night and day. After the final note stopped, Kotori looked up at both her audience members and sighed, pleased.

"I am honored my song pleased you, Rokugo-san. The few Fortunes which blessed me were very generous in their gifts." Resting her instrument across her lap, she flexed delicate fingers a few times as though to relax tired muscles. "I look forward to fulfilling my duties. I have already begun making efforts to forge connections with members of other clans."

She glanced over to Sayako and smiled. "The wind was unexpected, but pleasant. You are clearly much loved by the kami." 

"I also had the pleasure of meeting Tansaku-sama several days ago. She is an impressive woman in many respects. I found her to be quite serious of mien, but extremely devoted to her craft. That is a sentiment I can appreciate." Kotori let out a little peal of musical laughter. "In fact, I encountered her in this very spot."

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Donald
*The shugenja gives a short nod of acknowledgement, and a sharp and respectful* "Understood, sir." *She inwardly builds an image of this Tansaku-san, trying to plan for this new contact to make* "I will try and meet with her soon." *Sayako finds herself a little eager to meet people outside the scorpion clan as well. The world without masks seems far brighter to live in, in her view. Sure there are always people playing roles and political games to their end, but it isn't to the same degree. The mention of being allowed into such an important meeting brings a smile to her under her mask.* "I am honored, sir. You can count on me to be there, and I will reward your trust as soon as I have an opportunity." 

*Sayako enjoys the peace of the night and whatever music Kotori graces them with for a little while longer. But as her business seems to have concluded, she does give them both a bow and makes to leave her new companions and rest for the next day. She does pause briefly though as a thought enters her mind.* "Bayushi-san, seeing as we are likely to be working together, why don't you show me around the gardens and markets tomorrow. Help me see what I have missed."

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Brett
Happy to hear Kotori was making connections, he listened and quietly enjoyed the song she played. With the new scorpion under his command, certain plans could come to fruition. Soshi Sayako was a fine addition to the list, utilizing her would be tricky, but wild cards were his favorite. Turning over to Kotori he briefly spoke. 

"I often find myself enjoying the company of the animals and other life, once you begin overseeing the gardens. I suppose we'll be spending quite some time together. Of course, if that's pleasurable to you." 

As for Sayako herself, the Magistrate turned and saw her soon ready to leave. "Soshi Sayako, you'll be a great asset to me and the Scorpion Clan. I may have a purpose for you sooner rather than later. Your abilities will greatly benefit us. Thank you, for your dedication."

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Juanita
Kotori continued playing as they all spoke, her tune a pleasant but unremarkable melody. In addition to providing a more relaxed mood for the three of them, it would also do well to cover their voices at least in part. 

At Sayako's mention of visiting the markets and the gardens, Kotori absolutely *Beamed*. "I would be delighted, Soshi-san! There is so much to see here." While she herself for still very far from being an expert on the city, the idea of guiding another person struck her as an important task, even if it was also one she could enjoy.

"Seeing you with your little woodland friend was utterly charming, Rokugo-san." She smiled at the magistrate then, pausing in her song and making another little adjustment to a tuning peg. "I would be honored if you should favor me with your company, even if I am able to do nothing more for you than provide some entertainment." 


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