Marla
The Shosuro Palace was quite pact as many Heimin servants and other scorpions tended to the gardens within the Palaces courtyard. It housed many of the scorpion residents in the city, especially those who were just being welcomed. Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto had been by the gates, expecting to welcome a new arrival, but not yet knowing whom it was. He assumed it to be someone valuable to their efforts in the city if he had been previously notified, so he had high hopes. 

The Magistrate stood six foot two, having a large stature and wide build. Besides his great presence the most notable thing on him was the mask, having a vicious primate with fangs protruding from the mouth, and a third eye. It was primarily red with gold outlines, completely hiding the man's face. Yutos long dark hair was slicked back into a topknot behind the head, letting the silk like mane fall down to his shoulders and below. 

Adorned in a blood red haori above his plum purple kimono and black hakama. Boasting the scorpion mon on his back proudly, having his Daisho on the left hip. Both hands were crossed in front of him, hidden in the shrouds of his haori as he waited for the new arrival to appear. Beside him was a much smaller servant woman, going by the name of Chinatsu. She herself wore a simple kimono like most heimin, fitted for tending to the palace's needs. The woman had been the one to let the Magistrate know, hearing mere whispers among others.. 

Tapping his foot ever so slightly, he politely inquired. "I thought they'd be here by now... Are you certain the arrival was today?" 

"Yes Bayushi-sama." She replied softly. 

"Then why isn't he here? I knew we should have waited for him at the city gates" While he was growing impatient he spoke in a gentle and meek tone. 

"I was told he had an escort already! Perhaps he's just running late." The woman replied a little more anxiously. 

"Some escort, probably dead somewhere now." Yuto said purposefully, teasing her. 

"Bayushi-sama! Don't say that, I'm sure he'll show soon!" 

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Cherryl
The Magistrate certainly had expectations; after all, how could one not when told a useful asset would be presenting himself? That said, those expectations probably did not match what arrived at his gates. Could someone ride a horse *Insouciantly*? Well, this fellow approaching certainly was, his posture suggesting a languid indifference to much of the city around him. 

A samurai of moderate height sat on the archetypal Rokugani traveling horse, clad in well-made garments. A crimson hakama with gold and orange highlighting, a kimono of greens and pales, and a blue-and-plum haori picked out with the Scorpion mon across the back. His face was surmounted with a halfmask, covering his eyes, nose, and forehead. It was made of white leather, picked out in red and black, the very visage of a hare kami. Long, auburn hair was bundled at the back of his head, coming down twixt his shoulder blades in a thick mass. If left unbound, it would surely reach to the man's waist. At his hip hung a daisho, bronze-clad tsuba tapping together as he swayed comfortably in the saddle. 

On reaching the gate, he drew up the horse, sliding from it with a bit of dash and ease, approaching the gates. His feet were perhaps the only indication of not having chosen spectacular fashion over practicality, being clad not in fine Geta and tabi, but simple, sturdy, and exceedingly rugged waraji straw sandals. He would nod to the bow of the servant who had been leading his horse, then step toward the magistrate.

At the correct distance for etiquette, he would bow deeply, as one should when uncertain of another's exact rank, but sure it was higher than one's own. "Felicitous greetings to you. I am commanded by my lord to introduce myself to the master of this house and place myself into his service. I bring a letter of introduction from Yogo-dono." And he would extend the letter in both hands.
Marla
He at least expected to receive a name before a letter, though the mention of the Yogo family was some indicator. If he were a Yogo he would've told Hiromi or Kiyo to do this, but the Rokugo wasn't one for turning down or making others feel unwelcome. 

"Welcome to Ryoko Owari Toshi, I'm Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto, Magistrate of the clan here in the city. I'll be the one tending to your needs if you require them." 

Taking the letter he extended, the scorpion wasted no time in opening it. Reading the contents of the man which one assumed would be a basic description of who and why this man was here. Looking back up at the Yogo, he spoke. 

"Yogo Okita-san is it? A pleasure to meet you. After hearing of your arrival I went ahead and had a room prepared for you. If you're tired I can escort you straight there, or you can tour the palace."

He turned to walk, gesturing for the man to follow. 

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Cherryl
Okita rose from his bow as he was addressed, nodding his head. He fell into step along with the magistrate as Yuto began to walk. Properly, he matched his stride to be a half-step behind the senior samurai, rather than lagging far behind or trying to keep even with Yuto.

"A pleasure as well, my lord. A tour would be most appreciated indeed, this home looks like one to be most proud of. I am honored you would wish to show it off for my humble benefit." He adjusted a carrying pack as he walked, having somewhat oddly chosen not to leave it in the care of any servants. Indeed, had any come close, they would have been politely, yet steadfastly, ignored.

His voice was well-trained, with mostly proper enunciation and elucidation. However, Yuto would be able to detect hints of the broad vowels and soft consonants of the southern river country in Okita's speech. Whether an affectation or an origin impossible to entirely erase probably remained to be seen.

"As my lord surely said in his missive, I'm to make myself useful to you and your house. I am a painter, by practice, Bayushi-sama." 

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Marla
Walking through the courtyard it was plain as day they were used for the gardens. The man walked at a moderate pace heading toward the residence, seeing as it was the largest building within the noble quarter. There was enough room to fit a dozen of their clan and not feel cramped, hearing he was a painter one might have appreciated the space. 

"You must be a fine artist Yogo-san, I've always wanted to learn the craft. Perhaps I'll frequent you for lessons, just for you we have a room spacious enough for your work." 

Despite one's stature the man carried himself gracefully. Speaking in a gentle and meek voice, letting his presence do the attention grabbing rather than his voice. Upon entering the palace, Yuto kicked off his sandals so they could walk within. The castle had many corridors and hallways, each holding shoji doors. It would take a while for one to memorize everything, but the main things to consider were the basics. 

"You'll be able to acquire everything needed for your work here in the Palace, many servants move through the halls so just ask if you need anything!" 

Inside the Shosuro Palace were decorations littered nearly everywhere. Mostly artifacts and heirlooms relating to the Shosuro, but many other trinkets were placed too. Armor, weapons, paintings, plants, they had it all here. 

"Sometimes it can be overwhelming to take in, but it's a worthy sight to behold nonetheless."

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Cherryl
Okita attended readily at the Bayushi's elbow, taking in the sights. He had to pause a moment longer than the Magistrate when it came time to remove his shoes, for waraji were solidly wound things. 

"My lord is too kind. A studio for myself, it is too generous. I would have readily accepted a space in the gardens." It was the expected polite refusal, and it was clear he was pleased at the notion of having a formal workspace. After all, what could he do otherwise if it rained?

"It is indeed impressive." He noted, as he looked at the artifacts around them. "A question, my lord. My father had expected I should be a bushi, and I was trained in our family's style of Kenjutsu. I was never given a yojimbo, as my father expected me to fight for myself. Is it acceptable I carry my katana as such, or would the dignity of the house prefer I defer to a guardian?" 

Again, it was clear enough which he preferred. Courtier or not, the grip cloth of his katana was well-used, yet scrupulously kept. His carrying satchel was in his left hand, leaving the right free for his blade should it be required. 
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Marla
He chuckled at the man's humility, whether it was projected or genuine. Yuto appreciated the thought. Some were stingy over the treatment of the palace, status very much having a role in determining what rooms were assigned. 

"Nonsense Yogo-san, if what I've heard is true then you'll soon decorate the palace with your wonderful creations. It's an admirable skill and one many can recognize. I'm sure you'll find many who share in your hobbies." 

Sliding open the first door, he stepped into the room. This being the main dining hall of the palace, having a long Zataku that stretched from one end of the room to the next. With cushions alongside so those can find comfort being seated. One would notice the palace had a very traditional aesthetic and feel, while it was indeed flashy for the scorpion it wasn't too alluring. 

"Here is the main dining hall for important meetings and of course special occasions. Other than that it's empty most of the time, many prefer to eat in their rooms when not celebrating." 

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Cherryl
He noticed how the second question had been politely deferred, so he simply nodded and accepted the compliments without protest. "Again, far too kind my lord, but I will strive to do as you say. Loyalty is beautiful, and beautiful art can show us that." 

He did notice the dining hall, giving a polite sound to the idea of communal meals. He did also give a more relieved nod as it was made clear he could eat in his own quarters if he desired. "Most wonderful to hear. I should hate to put anyone to bother of dining with me whilst I have stained fingers from my diversions." Or, properly translated, he didn't look forward to being interrupted by mealtimes if he was in the midst of creating.
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Marla
Definitely a man who wanted to keep a modest image, that is if he weren't truly an honest man. Yogo Okita seemed to carry himself well and with grace, some of the others would appreciate his fine mannerisms. Maybe Kiyo would get along with him.. 

"You're far too self-effacing Yogo-san, there is no such need to address me as Lord. Bayushi-san or Yuto-san will suffice. I'm sure no one will be bothered by your presence, to be before one with an observant eye as your own is a pleasure. You're able to see things in others they may not see within themselves.." 

He continued walking through the palace. Going down the corridors until reaching yet another room, sliding it open they'd see another spacious room. This was the dojo within the palace, on the wall were swords and other various weapons, along with bokken for sparring. 

"Not sure if you fancy honing your combative skills but if you ever desire this is the Dojo. Things often get moved around in here, but you're able to find what you need in regards to training." 

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Cherryl
He gave another languid nod at the permission to greet the Magistrate by family name. "Bayushi-san is most kind. I shall strive to be observant in all things." 

On introduction to the dojo, his expression did brighten, even behind the mask. "Ah, yes, I do fancy passing a few blows from time to time. I rather prefer the brush, all things considered, but as I said my father was most attentive to my martial training."

He would give the dojo a polite bow, oddly enough. A custom from home, perhaps?
Marla
"You'll find your skill with the brush may come in handy more than the finesse with a sword, though if you ever need a sparring partner to break a sweat with, I'll be more than happy." 

He smiled watching the man bow to the dojo, Yuto would do the same so that there would be no awkwardness. Besides, one felt it to be appropriate and respectful, so why not? Afterward they'd survey the palace halls and corridors, giving the Yogo the entire layout of the castle. It could get confusing, but he stuck to the rooms that were relevant and might have suited his needs. That was until they finally landed in front of Okitas room, it wasn't far from his own and a few of the others. 

"This here is your room! I made sure there was plenty of room for your artistic needs, mine is just a few doors down if you ever need anything from me." 

He opened the door, showing the free space the Yogo would have. Allowing him to step into the room first as the Rokugo would follow in after. 

"I hope it's big enough."

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Cherryl
Okita followed along, managing not to visibly blanch at the notion of sweating. He seemed unbothered by the size of the palace, and indeed actually appeared quite taken with the accomodations. 

"Oh, it is magnificent, strike me blind if I tell a lie." He said, seeming to mean it seriously. His accent slipped a little on the phrase, as well. He'd pause and gather himself visibly, taking the sight of the room in. 

"Far better than the humble place I began, Bayushi-san, to be sure. Mine, my sister's, and my parents' rooms of our... Estates would have fit in this room entirely." He might have been exaggerating for politeness sake, but it seemed his opinion was that he did find the room entirely pleasing and to his liking.
Marla
Yogo Okita was definitely a humble man, of course there was a lot of flattery being done for him. The room was big but it wasn't extravagant, he made it seem greater than it was. Chuckling to himself at the notion of striking him if he lied, maybe he would..

"I'm glad you like it, Yogo-san! You're allowed to decorate it however you wish, it is yours for as long as you reside here within the Palace. I hope to see some of your work soon!" 

It was rare to come across an artisan, Yuto before had never shown interest, but seeing as his work required him to rest his sword he found some intrigue to it. Maybe he'd learn from the man, although the Magistrate wouldn't push too far. 

"Luckily for us the palace isn't too far from the scorpion gardens, I'm sure you'll find much inspiration for your work there! The terrain is serene with many people and animals, you may even see things you normally don't. I often visit myself to tend to the animals."

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Cherryl
"Oh, there is no doubt I shall find something to inspire me quite soon. If I could draw upon the house servants to have my remaining belongings moved here, I will be most happy to settle on in." He would be setting down the large carrying satchel, a soft clatter of wood escaping from the bag.

"There is surely much to do and I shall be happy to do my part as best I am able. And I would certainly appreciate some leisure in the gardens."
Marla
"The servants will tend to your every need, within the Palace and of course the gardens. Issues with transferring belongings to your new quarters will be null." 

He replied, they were almost done. Though he figured there were a few more things to address and ask the Yogo. Okita seemed to be enthusiastic on his stay in the city, though if he was new the Junshin was curious on why exactly the Yogo was assigned here. Perhaps a simple artisan could build trust with his favorable talents, it seemed reasonable. 

"Do you have any plans to associate with the other gifted Artisans in the city? I'm certain you'll make many beloved acquaintances by opening your doors to the people here. That and there will be many intrigued by your talents hoping to learn, though I hope you won't be swarmed too much." 

He chuckled. If this was all he might be ready to be on his way and leave the man to decorate his room. Settling in was an important thing, some preferred it be done alone. 

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Cherryl
"Oh, of course, I would be delighted to meet other artisans. A swordsman won't be so good if he practices by himself, after all. Any artisan who can't acknowledge the same isn't worth the bu for their ink." 

It didn't have the same ring as a phrase from the Scorpion lands. It sounded like it fit the slower cadances of the accent that kept slipping into random words he spoke.

"Perhaps once I'm established and have a bit of a reputation we could host a salon, get the lay of the artistic land here in the city. The moods of the artists can tell you a great deal about what a clan is feeling in general."
Marla
Hearing his idea, the magistrate would have nodded in approval. It sounded to be a good gesture, nothing could go wrong at a simple gathering of artisans sharing their passion. Perhaps Yuto himself could learn something from it as well, though he didn't feel he held such an artistic passion. Certain talents were beyond what he could do. 

"Sounds like a wonderful idea Yogo-san. I look forward to seeing your career here in the city progress. For now I'll leave you to your own, once again, Welcome to Ryoko-Owari-Toshi!" 

He said cheerfully once more as the Magistrate turned. Stepping outside of the room before giving a bow, showing his respect and welcoming the man to the city. Afterward he'd have shut the door, before going on his way. Maybe picking up an artistic talent would do the Rokugo some good? If so what would suit the man... Maybe he'd meet again for the painters salon to figure that out. 

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