Sara
Today would be a large step in progress, setting a favorable stone in place to assist their cause. The gardens were usually filled with tourists, attendants, and maybe a performer or two. At this hour its presence was near desolate, with the sound of only natural ambiance filing the air. Having sent a letter to Bayushi Kotori and writing up several documents, getting their stamps approved of course. The Magistrate waited near the entrance of the park, with every Shiatsu professional and Gardner lined up. She would have the reigns of inside and out. 

Given what he knew of the Woman, Yuto felt this job to be most appropriate. It wasn't far from the Shosuro palace with many servants to aid her. Security was strong and he spent a fair share of time here to ensure things were okay. The Bathhouse was a crucial business that upheld their tradition in the city. Making sure it was successful was a primary objective. 

Yuto wore attire traditional for that of a Scorpion. Wearing his hair in a topknot. His Daisho was on his waist as well as a few scrolls and a nicely crafted box in hand. A few things to give her when assigning such duties. Figuring a formal tour of the garden and coronation to manage it was appropriate. Wanting to demonstrate the weight of such a role. Chinatsu, his personal attendant stood beside him. They were ready to get started. 

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Tricia
The day had finally come.

Bayushi Kotori made her way to the gardens with Ryogo in tow, clad in one of her finest kimono. This was a moment worthy of ceremony, and was due appropriate gravitas. She carried with her a small bamboo case specially crafted to hold documents, but as usual, she wore no blade with her. 

She walked with the measured dignity of a woman of her station, stopping before her magistrate and bowing respectfully. She nodded politely to Chinatsu after she straightened. Having recently spent so much time in the gardens and bathhouse, she'd become more familiar with many of the staff of the garden, and gave them a little nod, too.

"Good day to you, Rokugo-sama," She smiled up at him, the mid-morning sun glinting off her numerous hair ornaments. "I am here to serve at your direction."

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Sara
Pleased to see her arrival, the Rokugo bowed. As did all the other servants present. She was their direct Lord now, supervising all that went on in the gardens. Kotori had an important business to manage, there was so much to extract from the gardens. While she came prepared the man was here to ensure she knew. 

"It is most pleasing that you are here, Bayushi-san." He spoke in his regular meek tone. Keeping a neutral expression. "All those present here are now at your disposal. Shiatsu professionals, gardeners, those that care for the fauna. Upholding the ecosystem of the Garden and the Traditions of the Bathhouse fall to you." 

He gestured for the woman to follow, dismissing the servants present. They had been made aware of the accommodations. Yuto began to make his way to the pavilion building, where the bathhouse was stationed. 

"Tell me, Bayushi-san. Do you know why we value the Bathhouse and its traditions so much?"
Tricia
Kotori followed just a step behind him, not only because he was so much taller than she, but also as an appropriate show of deference. This was business after all, not pleasure. 

"I assure you, Rokugo-sama, I will fulfill my duties to the best of my abilities." She was grateful that she'd been spending so much time recently at the gardens. She was familiar now with most of the facilities save the zoo, but that was on her list of places to visit. 

"I have already been acquainting myself with the bathhouse and the grounds, and have met several other samurai in the process. I hope that I have not overstepped my bounds."

"As to the importance of this bathhouse, I can think of many reasons why it is so valuable to us. First, if we speak to traditions, it is a subtle reminder of Scorpion hospitality, but more especially that of the the Bayushi. Second, it is a useful means of asserting our influence within the city. Third, the bathhouse could provide us with an invaluable means of gathering information, so long as we can maintain our prominence and convince others it is a safe place." 

She glanced up at him, hoping that her response would be at least sufficient even if it was not as complete as he had hoped. 

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Sara
He walked at a moderate pace, making sure the smaller woman could keep up. When noticing she was a step behind him, the Scorpion took one stride back before proceeding. Yuto was not as condescending as one would think, possessing the humility of a proper vassal. Despite his authority he still saw those of noble blood to be above him. 
"You've done exactly as I have hoped. The extent of your bounds is limited to the Gardens, for now at least." 

Kotori didn't miss a mark when it came to expressing the importance of the Garden. Yuto wasn't exactly surprised at this but he was astonished. There wasn't much to add on top of her reasons, though there was more to discuss. 
"You are correct, Bayushi-san. Using the bathhouse to collect information and build relations with the other clans stationed here in the city is important. They believe we will spend our time fighting this battle underneath the table, we however, will strike on all fronts." 

Upon approaching the bathhouse, he slid the door open for the two to enter. The pavilion was tall, large enough and equipped with everything one would need. Seeing as she's explored the building in her time here, he figured to show her a new room. One that would specifically be dedicated to her. 
"Since you'll be spending a lot of time here, an office has been prepared for you." 

The room was spacious and had room to further decorate. Within it was a table with cushions on both sides in the center of the room. Further in the back were storages for paper, ink, and brushes. 
"Figured you'd decorate it yourself."
Tricia
Yuto's considerate nature and gestures of silent kindness were but two of the reasons she was growing to like the young magistrate so much.

"I am glad I have met your expectations, Rokugo-sama. I believe that by showing we, as a clan, are capable of conducting business 'properly' will do well in helping us to re-secure our position within the city." 

When he opened the door to the office, Kotori was nearly vibrating with excitement. True, she had explored a significant portion of the bath house to familiarize herself with the structure, but hadn't seen *Everything*. Seeing the office, *Her* Office, a place where she would be responsible for overseeing the operations of the baths... It was an almost overwhelming moment for her.

She paused at the door, her face flushing with pleasure. "My most humble thanks, Rokugo-sama. I am eager to continue to serve, and I will not let you down."

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Sara
He waited patiently, giving Kotori a moment to take in the room, after all she was going to be spending a lot of time here. When she gave reassurance in not letting him down, the Magistrate simply nodded. Yuto took a step further into the office, seating himself at the table closer to the door. After situating himself he would gesture for her to come sit. Gently placing the small wooden box carried with him on the table. 

"You'll need these papers to get started. Organize them how you wish." 

Inside the box were a dozen ink written papers. Each document was either a file on a worker, specific animal, plant, and lists of supplies currently on hand. This would surely help Kotori get up to speed on how the state of the garden was doing. However, that wasn't the only thing he has for the woman today. Reaching for his Obi, Yuto pulled out a scroll, this was a list of names he had written. Familiar Contacts for her to invite and show hospitality to in the bathhouse. 

"I trust you'll do well with these." 

Laying out the paper, it was a lot longer than one would expect—rolling over the table.

``` Bayushi no Rokugo Yutos Contacts of Interest

Crab - Yasuki Umeo, Yasuki Rei, Kuni Kobe, Yasuki no Nobuto Miyami. 

Mantis - Moshi Mai, Moshi Kana, Chiyōko. 

Phoenix - Shiba Iemon, Asako Sanumo, Isawa Kashikoi, Shiba Terumi, Asako Kita. 

Lion - Kitsu Himiko, Akodo Katsuhiro, Ikoma Miho, Kitsu Miu. 

Dragon - Agasha Kokuto 

Crane - Doji Koharu, Kakita Kiyoko.``` 

Giving her a moment to read it over, he'd then go on to speak: "You'll notice there are no Unicorn on the list. While I am friends and acquaintance with some, relations between clans are non existent. Unless they come to our gardens themselves, we will extend no invitation."
Tricia
Vulpine eyes swept over the room, making only a cursory survey. There would be time enough to worry about trivial matters such as decorating. Though... She *Would* Get to that later. 

The scroll, long and impressive and just a bit intimidating, arrested her attention most. She was relieved that several of the names on the list were already familiar to her; she'd met half-dozen of the personages mentioned, which, she hoped would make the future processes at least a bit easier. The bit about the Unicorn was not unexpected, though it was something of a disappointment. She'd met several members of that clan already, and they had all seemed pleasant enough... Especially Utaku Takeda. Shinjo Temujin had been friendly and welcoming, and while Shinjo Sumire may not have been the most outwardly personable, she'd been helpful and was clearly a woman possessing a sharp mind. What a terrible shame it was that relations between their clans had soured to such a degree.

Carefully, she rolled the scroll up and tucked it carefully into the case she had brought with her. This scroll would require careful study and a careful plan to make best use of the information the magistrate had gifted her. Placing the scroll case onto one of the shelves in an alcove, Kotori faced Yuto fully, and bowed low at the waist.

"Thank you for entrusting to me this important duty, Rokugo-sama. I will not fail you."

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Sara
He gave Kotori time to take it all in. This was a heavy responsibility, one he felt no other Scorpion was suited to. Tomura had other tasks and Kiyo had other skillsets entirely. Sayako is the mystery left of how to assign the Shugenja. Rather than ponder them, Yuto focused on the woman in front of him. Now that he provided her with a list of contacts and documents of the gardens, he had something else to give her. 

"Your compelling grace and influential tongue may give some of the other Samurai an... Unruly appetite. It is not always the best etiquette to have a Yojimbo around, so in those instances." 

He spoke no more, placing a thin wooden case on the desk. Lifting the top, it was two fans. Picking them up to hold in hand, he snapped them open at once. Revealing two sheets with two different patterns. One was a gray background with a scorpion on it, the second was black and covered in various flowers. Suitable for her to carry whilst in the gardens. 

"Menhari-Gata, a lot less suspicious to reach for than a knife. Fortunes bless that you never have to use them for anything other than fanning your face."

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Tricia
"I am very honored, Rokugo-sama. They are exquisite." She pressed her fingertips together and touched them lightly against her chin as she looked down at the fans, eyes shining. "I, too, they shall never see their proper use." 

True, a wakizashi had been bestowed upon her at her gempukku, she knew it was a mere formality. She had drawn the blade only once before being scolded fiercely for her carelessness, and so the sword had rested upon its stand in her rooms ever since. As such, she was without a weapon at almost all times, not even being permitted to carry a tanto. It was not a formal prohibition, as such, but the danger was great enough that she still abided by it. 

Kotori smiled up at him with a warm, bright expression; she was clearly very happy. "Thank you for placing your trust in me." 

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Sara
An expression of content crossed Yutos lips, neither happy or sad she enjoyed the gift. Many would take a weapon as an insult, but here the Magistrate looked beyond formalities, gazing upon the assurance of the woman's safety. Better to be safe than sorry in these regards, if she became a valuable asset as Yuto hoped, protection was a demand. She was being given a valuable task, he had high hopes for Kotori. 

"Forgive me, do not misinterpret the formality. What I have placed upon you is responsibility suited to your strength. Trust is yet to come." While these words could be seen as rude or deteriorating, he spoke softly. One could almost ask if the Magistrate was capable of harsh tones. After his experience with fellow clanmates, Yuto lost trust for those who wore the same Mon. There was no one he trusted, not truly. 

"Now that you have been settled into the city and have been assigned station, there are some warnings I must relate to you. Things to watch out for, there must be no shoulder not looked over." Where could he begin? The Kolat investigation? Many already knew, it would do no harm to warn a clan member, especially one in a position of Intelligence..
Tricia
Looking at the beautiful fans for a moment longer, Kotori wondered silently who she might ask to teach her to wield them properly. And if not properly, then at least effectively. She was smart enough to know that the two concepts were not always synonymous, nor were they mutually exclusive.

"Yes, Rokugo-sama." She nodded to him, immediately schooling her expression back into that of serious attention. She took no offense at his mention of not trusting her yet—that was to be expected, not only of one of her clan, but one who had been made magistrate in a place called the City of Lies. For her part, Kotori perhaps trusted too easily. She would have to work on that, even if the prospect of doing so saddened her somehow. 

"I await your orders. As I said, I am already working towards establishing contacts within the city. If there are specific things for which I should pay special attention..." She left the statement unfinished, certain that the magistrate would catch her meaning.

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Sara
"Shosuro Miyagi, a Scorpion in the Bureaucracy tasked with arming the Thunder Guard and our Ashigaru. He was killed and had his chop taken, used by the Kolat to smuggle assets in and out of the city." He let that sit for a moment. There was a lot to digest in those words alone, but he'd continue soon enough. "If we could be compromised, then anyone could be. The names I gave you on that list are safe, including the Heimin I have to serve you here in the Gardens. Do not let your guard down outside the safety of the Bathhouse and Palace." 

Now he needed to provide some reassurance, while there was no certainty, the man was confident he could achieve something great. "I'm currently investigating to solve this matter, I intend to turn the tide in this effort to claim the city. No matter who claims it, I'll be damned if a Kolat does. Until I've given the okay, speak of this with no one."
Tricia
Hearing what a mess things really were, Kotori exhaled a sigh through her nose, closing her eyes for a moment as she processed everything Yuto just told her. A murdered official, a stolen chop, Kolat... A terrible mess indeed.

"I will be careful. And what could I possibly speak of Rokugo-san? All we have discussed is the garden and the bathhouse." She blinked at him innocently and cocked her head, only the slightest smile shining in those same vixen eyes.

"I was thinking, perhaps, we might host some sort of..." She rolled one hand absently, searching for the best word, "...Artistic showcase in the near future. We need to show that the gardens and baths are not only beautiful places, but *Safe* Places as well. Organizing something that appeals to the more refined tastes would, I hope, be a subtle show that we are unified."

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Sara
As she inquired of what one could speak of, Yuto didn't understand the question at first. However, there were various things he could have her do, in regards to the list he gave. Kotori was beautiful, wise with her words, and seemingly harmless. This was an advantage, one she could make great use of. 

"I think you've found what you can talk about. Although, I'd encourage you to find out about the individuals you invite here. Learn more about them, their clan, perhaps the problems they have, and things we can help with. Just remember, your job is to extract information, not give it. Unless for a price." Too many knew of the Scorpions poor handling in the city, that needed to change. Right now they had the advantage of underestimation. 

"If you're looking to bring art into the gardens, I'm certainly not the one for that discussion. You ought to find Shosuro Satoshi for that kind of thing." He never had any idea what went through that kid's head. Satoshi was born in the city of lies so that explained a lot about him. 

"I'd start sending letters as soon as possible. I'm certain those on that list will take kindly to you."
Tricia
Yuto *Completely* Missed her implication, and she hid a giggle behind her sleeve. He needed an explanation, lest he think her foolish. "Oh, Rokugo-sama... I was meaning to imply that your words are safe with me. I will disclose nothing, save for how lovely are our gardens and grounds." 

"I would like to meet Shosuro-san soon, but he is elusive. Almost as much as our ambassador, it seems." She gave a rueful smile, bordering on the edge of a smirk. But only just.

"I will begin my communications immediately. I have already dispatched one to Asako Sanumo, and have arranged a meeting." The Phoenix Karo had replied quickly, his writing speaking of great eloquence and intelligence. She was nervous to meet him, but excited at the same time. It would be another opportunity to prove herself. 

"Unrelated, Rokugo-sama..." She fidgeted for a moment, glancing away shyly. "I was wondering if you might like to attend the theatre with me at some point in the future."

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Sara
Hearing Satoshi was elusive wasn't a surprise at all. Perhaps he'd have to hunt down the little brat. Her not meeting with Komori was no surprise either, his absence was noted by everyone within the clan. He wanted to be rid of the Ambassador before any others came to be aware of his presence. That was a matter for another time though, focusing on what was in front of him was far more important. 

"I'm glad you've taken the initiative. If it is no burden to you, I'd appreciate written reports of these meetings, that is if you extract the information you think or believe is worth me knowing." 

It was then she brought up the theatres, looking away shy, fidgeting. What was her deal? Did her Yojimbo ask for an off day? Maybe she was too embarrassed to say anything. While he could have given a longer answer, he simply let out a: 

"Sure."
Tricia
Never had a flower wilted as quickly. 

At Yuto's disinterested 'sure', Kotori's smile faltered for only a brief moment, barely half a second before she managed to regain her bearings, even if her mind was a cacophony of shrieking. Her thoughts in that instant made the same terrible sound as someone sweeping an armful of delicate china off a shelf, sending it shattering to the floor. She lowered her eyes demurely as a show of obeisance, it was just as much to hide her own embarrassment. 

*He most certainly does **Not** Want to attend the theatre with you, fool!* She chided herself silently. 

"I will provide to you reports as I progress," The little Scorpion dipped in a small bow, acknowledging his 'orders', such as they were.

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Sara
Even if it was only a brief moment, the Magistrate possessed sharp eyes. His unenthusiastic answer brought discontent, this was an error. One he would soon correct. Not until he had some harsh thoughts for himself. 

*' You slipped for just a moment and look what happened, good job Yuto.'* 

Taking a small breath, he recollected his face and showed a diplomatic smile, It was fabricated with good intentions. "I'm glad to hear it. Now, come with me." He stood, walking around the table till he was at Kotori's side. Offered a hand to lift her, as he could do so easily. Before turning to walk, he made strong eye contact, still smiling, but at this moment it became genuine. "I have one more thing to show you." 

The Rokugo would have led her outside, back into the gardens. Walking beside the smaller Scorpion, considerate of their difference in size. After a while, he'd have led Kotori to a small pond. This one was populated with various ducks and their ducklings, for a moment he remembered how they'd play with Kame-sama. 

"I'm going to show you why I've assigned you to the gardens."
Tricia
"As you wish, Rokugo-sama." She smiled again, doing her best to appear at ease. 

She hesitated for only a moment before slipping her small hand into Yuto's much larger one, grateful for his assistance. Normally, she would not have accepted such kind help, but he was her magistrate, so if he was making the offer, it must be alright. 

At his pointed eye contact, Kotori blushed slightly, and she relaxed to see his smile actually reach his eyes. She followed him dutifully, just a half-step behind—after all, he was leading. When they finally arrived at the pond, the little Scorpion beamed with joy and pressed her fingertips together in delight.

"Oh, how precious!" A woman down to her core, she was always charmed by cute animals, especially in their baby forms. And it just so happened that among baby animals, ducklings were *Very* High up on the adorable ranking. 

She took a little step nearer to get a better look, not wanting to frighten animals but unable to stay away. "Oh, Rokugo-sama! Look at how they swim!" She pointed to some of the ducklings having a grand time in the pond, swimming about and splashing and quacking up a storm. 

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Sara
Cheering her up was the idea, and Yuto was glad to have achieved that. His subordinates losing enthusiasm was not ideal, Kiyo lacked enough for everyone as it was already. As she paid attention to the little birds enjoying their time, Yuto began to softly whistle, gaining the attention of one mature duck who swam by itself. The Scorpion was fond of animals, going as far as to learn a few neat tricks for them too. As he softly whistled, the little bird drifted closer and closer to the two, drawn by the sound. || Animal Handling 3 || 

As it approached, Yuto bent down on one knee. Laying the back of his hand softly in the grass, to one's surprise it would have sat in his hand, comfortable with the man out of familiarity. Standing back up, he turned to Kotori. "As you spend time in the gardens, you'll begin to see the animals take a turn to your presence. I felt you to be a kindred spirit Bayushi-san. Sometimes You will feel a cold wind make your heart bitter while in this city, the many trials and tribulations will cause great suffering. But here, you can open your heart to the gardens, and in return, they will open their hearts to you." 

As he finished speaking, he gently handed the creature out for her to hold it. If she were going to be the garden overseer, she needed to get good at handling the variety of fauna within it. "Do not misunderstand either, for a warm heart does not equal a weak one. The other scorpion have cold hearts, thus, only you are capable of taming the Garden."
Tricia
Her smile was bright enough to blind as she watched Yuto crouch down and seem to summon a duck. The way it swam over and then comfortably hopped up into his hand was just so charming she giggled. All of her previous embarrassment was forgotten and forgiven—this was much better than attending the theatre. 

"Have you given him a name?" She looked up at the magistrate as she took the duck, showing as much care as if Yuto had just handed her an infant. Delicate fingers pressed against the feathers gently, so gently, enjoying the sensation. 

"I... I know that I am not able to serve the clan in all the capacities which you may need. I cannot handle a blade nor can I speak to the kami. But..." She smiled down at the duck, cradling it more comfortably against her cherst, and then looked back up at him with an expression of open admiration and happiness. "...But what I *Am* Able to do, I will devote myself entirely."

"I have not been in the city long, but already I feel that this garden is my sanctuary. To be able to oversee its well-being is an honor, a privilege." 

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Sara
He chuckled softly, especially when Kotori inquired of the little duck's name. Yuto had spent a lot of time within the gardens, but things such as naming the animals weren't his responsibility. However, they would fall to her. "Naming the animals is your job now, do choose carefully," Yuto spoke in an amused tone. Watching her cradle the duckling as if it were a baby, he almost snorted but kept it contained. Though it seemed she needed more reassurance. 

"Your dedication is unquestioned, Bayushi-san. I trust the responsibilities you have been given will be a weight lifted off of my shoulders. You will serve the clan in all the capacities you are able to, and that alone will be enough." Yuto spoke in a resolute tone, she may have doubted herself but the Rokugo didn't doubt the woman for a second. In their brief time together the two learned more of one another, but now it was time to bid farewell. 

"It is time I take my leave, do not waver in your confidence to fulfill your duty. I trust your results will help us." Raising a hand, he gave the little duckling a scratch on the head, before turning to her. "Overseeing the Gardens is indeed your privilege." He leaned in, a finger gently moved strands of hair out of the way of her ear, as he whispered. "And attending the theatre with you will be mine."

After that the Magistrate walked past the woman, taking his leave from the Scorpion Gardens.
Tricia
It was hard to recognize the value of one's self when for years it had been relegated to little more than being a pretty decoration, a bauble to be brought out on special occasions and admired like a new piece of artwork. That had been the reality of Kotori's upbringing; she was a doll who served no purpose other than to draw the eye. 

She half believed that the only reason her clan had dispatched her to Ryoko Owari was at her uncle's behest. Get the ward out of his house, relinquish responsibility. 

But the little Scorpion knew she could be more than that. She *Had* To be more than that... And if Yuto said it was so, she was ready to believe it.

"Thank you, Rokugo-sama." She smiled up at him, feeling her heart swell with pride and purpose. She giggled as he scratched the duckling and it quacked in response, giving its head a quick little shake. 

And then her mind went completely blank. Had... Had he actually just whispered to her? *And* Touched her hair? The sudden rush of blood to her face was enough to make her dizzy, staring at his retreating back as he walked away. It was not until Yuto had almost vanished from sight that she even remembered to breathe, blinking rapidly. 

She looked down at the duckling; it looked back up at her. "I... That really did just happen, did it not?"

The duckling only quacked.



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