William
*Disgust*

This was the only word that came to Kazuko's mind as she seated herself behind the desk which adorned the office of the Unicorn Ambassador. Solid oak, with silver delicately etched into what was no doubt a beautiful pattern were it not about to be obscured by a mountainous pile of papers. Clearly an Iuchi design.

A desk she had brought with her upon her arrival in Ryoko Owari. This was truly the worst possible outcome. The words of the letter she had entrusted to Masanori flashed before her:

```We need results, not words, and you will provide this. But remember, this is no longer beyond the Burning Sands. Anything that happens here must not destabilize the empire. We are servants of the Hantei first; do not forget this.```

And then the fool Nakato went and did just that. They could have had everything. Now they were left with nothing. Kazuko was done with failures. She doubted even her own position was strong enough afford another one. So she was here now, personally. Here to set matters back on track after the chaos of the winter.

She never wanted this. Masanori was supposed to be the one to make a name for himself here, as far away from the looming shadow of his family as possible. It's why she sent him to the city, because she knew he could be so much more than a *Dutiful soldier.* Instead she found herself right in the center of it all. To top it off she had Tsumugi to worry about now. The girl simply couldn't stay where she was supposed to, and had to come out here of all places. This wasn't some game; lives and futures hung in the balance. Why couldn't she just do what she was told?

Kazuko rolled her shoulders back, desperately trying to ease the tension growing in her neck. She was sounding like their father now, focusing on things like sentiment. It was no time for that. She had to maintain clarity, the perfect distinction between her work and her personal life. How did Reika make it seem so easy?

No matter. She would pick up the pieces, put the house in order, and then return it to Masanori. Victory was inevitable. It had to be. Failure was not an option when the future of the clan was at stake.

Taking a deep breath, she straightened to a perfect sitting position. No room for weakness. "Fuyuko, send him in."

Ide no Suio Kenza was handling business at his bazaar, so she would have to wait until laterto speak with him. The letter she bore with his name was carefully tucked away. Masanori would fill her in for now.

Time to see what she was working with, and break any who went too far wayward.
Jane
No sooner than the day had begun did Masanori find himself in the depths of the blackest of moods. It couldn't be helped: after forcing him into the role for the better part of a season, Utaku Kazuko had finally decided to take up the mantle of ambassador for the proud Unicorn clan. He might have welcomed the change, if the person relieving him of his duty were anybody else. But in typical fashion, his hard-work was brushed aside in the span of an instant the moment his sister deigned to ride her steed through the gates and grace them with her presence. Not even the ability to move back out to his yurt truly soothed him.

The summons only made matters worse. He had only enjoyed a sparse few months of freedom from having to answer to his dearest elder sister, yet there he was again, at her beck and call. Would that she had simply glossed him over, perhaps he could have enjoyed pursuing his own agendas, minor as they were. But inevitably, she would desire to take command of those too, and direct him as if he were just a toddling child and not a man grown and an officer besides. His usually steely mien was made all the more fearsome as he waited at the base of the stairs leading into what had—at one point—been his office.

At least he wasn't alone in the endeavor. His *Former* Hatamoto was also expected to meet with the esteemed taisa and provide his own accounting of events. Perhaps his charisma would yet carry the day: for all Masanori's disdain for courtiers, Ide no Suio Kenza proved to be a consummate diplomat, and had eased the difficulties of his impromptu promotion significantly in their brief time working together. It was perhaps due to this fondness that he had the mind to politely brief the Suio of his sister's injuries, such that he would not be surprised by her inability to speak. Not that he anticipated the vassal clansmen to make any faux paus on the matter.

When the time came to be beckoned within, Masanori took the lead. He entered without fanfare, carrying himself with an unattached stoicism that more befit a soldier answering to a superior than a brother greeting sister. Under his arm was a scroll carrier, the contents of which he did not bother to explain. Instead, he offered the most formal of bows.

"Utaku-sama."

||
William
Ah. Here he was, as well as . . . . Kazuko's raised eyebrow was the only indicator of her surprise at Kenza's appearance. Apparently he had completed his business much faster than anticipated. Good; this would make matters faster. First would come the standard introduction, for Kenza's benefit. She began to sign, and the short-haired attendant spoke.

"Utaku Masanori-san, Ide no Suio-Kenza-san, I bid you welcome. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life. Any words conveyed by her are my words, and I respectfully ask you to consider them with the same weight. I am Utaku Kazuko."

She bowed, respectfully and no doubt lower than would have been expected, especially to a vassal family member. "First, I wish to thank you both for your excellent service during these tumultuous times. Had my affairs not been so violently disrupted I could have been here sooner; however, it is clear the two of you have performed with distinction."

It was high praise coming from her. Masanori was already uncomfortable no doubt, and while Kenza was a man of the people records did not place him as the type to seek to take charge. This had been challenging to the both of them; now it was her turn to carry the burden.

"I'm afraid I have little time for pleasantries; as your predecessor did not see the need for written records I am forced to collect the details second-hand." Fuyuko sat at the edge of the table, pulling out a large stack of blank parchments and a pen. "Please, if you have anything of extraneous import to tell me do so now. Otherwise, provide me with everything that has happened since your arrival. Spare no detail."

||
Hannah
The well-dressed and carefully groomed Kenza had arrived more humble than usual. He didn't smile much and introduced himself first in Mekhem with a respectful bow, hair unbound and falling over both shoulders. Kenza swept the clean hair across his face and brows before he took a bow and offered them both a gift, first to Kazuko and then to Masanori. Two small cloth bags wrapped with teal ribbon. The scent of sandalwood followed the trader, but he seemed.. Less than himself, from what the two might've heard. Some might say he appeared withdrawn.

Kenza took a seat and finally regarded the translator with a polite nod. He'd default back to Mekhem unless it was apparent the others didn't speak it. He addressed the new leader quickly.
"Utaku-Sama. The Mantis have agreed to peace with us. The Phoenix are on good terms. The Lion I have met but await a letter from. The Scorpion are shamed and the Dragon are absent, as ever. The Crab are reliable in that they remain neutral. I had hoped to secure an alliance with them through marriage but that will not happen, Ide-sama has stained our reputation."
Perhaps his flat mood now made sense. He exhaled softly and apologised for the bluntness with a short seated bow.

"The Crane seem positioned to approach an alliance with the Phoenix. I suggest we meet terms with them - that we ally with the Mantis and they, the Phoenix. We need not point them at an enemy, only show them we offer something the Scorpion cannot. I've invited most of the Clans to my bazaar to open the avenues of communication further - it'll arrive any day now."
The talk of trade and catharsis of venting a little seemed to rekindle the trader, whose usual smile had begun to return and soften his manner.

||The bags each contained an ornate netsuke carved into the likeness of a Ki-Rin, shaped from pale and aromatic wood.
William
Following the standard back-and-forth of gift giving, Kazuko carefully placed the item away for safe-keeping, knowing that it was rude to open it in the presence of others. After her introduction in Rokugani was complete, she was pleased that Kenza took the initiative to converse about delicate matters in Mekhem. It was to his credit that he did so, and while Kazuko was never fluent in speaking the language she could understand it and Fuyuko could speak and write it.

"My condolences, Kenza-san, that your efforts were so thoroughly rebuffed. I . . . Sympathize with your situation." Her stiff appraisal of the young man's report softened slightly upon the mention of the failed marriage alliance. It seemed something was weighing on her mind in this regard as well, though now was not the time to focus on that.

"To your assessment on the clans I am pleased." At worst they respond as we expect, at best they wish to extend promises of alliance? She could have been in a much worse starting position. "I am in favor of your reaching out to open more doors of friendship with the Mantis, though we must tread carefully so as not to cause too much concern from our current allies. The Dragon may be distant but please continue to do what you can to reach out to them as well.

"On the matter of the Phoenix, I will be meeting with their Ambassador along with a diplomat of the Crane in three days' time. He seems troubled by matters related to the late Ide-sama. I will also be meeting with the Lion Ambassador soon." Kazuko had not been idle over the last two months. "I also would ask that you assist myself and Fuyuko in ensuring we have transcribed records of everything that has transpired since your arrival. In Mekhem of course.

"As you are well aware, I am no diplomat. The force I was to lead in a few months time should have been an occupation force, not an entourage of courtiers. I need all of you to make this a success until one more worthy of this assignment than I can be found." Her words were direct and possibly considered blunt by some, but she spoke truth. "Therefore, if you have any ideas, thoughts, or information you feel is necessary to consider, never feel it outside of your purview to pursue them after informing me."

She reached to a stack of papers, plucking a letter off the top. It was closed with the seal of both the Utaku and Ide Daimyos. "I know your interests lie more with commerce than leadership, and I would not wish anyone be ripped away from that which they excel. But regardless of where you are needed, this will assist in your endeavors."



This was going better than expected, but Kazuko was already growing exhausted and hadn't even begun to have words with the other samurai under her command. "Utaku Masanori-san, please. What have you to report of events since you have arrived?"
Jane
Though he had served for months as an ambassador, diplomacy had never particularly been Masanori's strong suit. He had little patience for the hand wringing and the scheming, and so the majority of their efforts had been left to the Suio to handle. To that end, he had little to say on the matter, standing idle as the current state of their diplomatic affairs were laid out for Fuyuko to diligently note down. Would that Ide Nakato cared to have paper records of his dealings, a great deal of time might have been spared. Perhaps he would have even made less of a fool of himself, had he a proper series of reports to read from when he decided to make his move at the infamous banquet that saw so much of their work undone. 

Eventually, the conversation shifted from alliances to what few matters he had to broach. Deciding which came first was something of a difficulty, of course, as many had blended together in the messy way that business tended to. He decided to order them in terms of overall importance, at least in his own opinion. To that end, his report began in the brewery. He recounted the events as he had seen them, the apparent murders committed by the creature, its eventual end, and the joint investigation launched between Crab & Unicorn to settle the matter. Then came the second item, his suggestion that the Crane utilize the danger posed to ramp up efforts of security on their behalf, which he had found to be lacking. He also made mention of Doji Koharu.

"I am sure you will make her acquaintance at some point. She is among the few Crane I believe to be truly reliable. Perhaps more importantly, she is the only I have met that seems capable of true military leadership, should the time for war come."

It was high praise, given his own high standards. Of course, the total lack of competition that Koharu had amongst her fellow clansmen might have blunted the compliment somewhat. He continued on with the third matter on his docket: the mysterious Silver-chan, who had courted no less than four clans in pursuit of ousting a kidnapping ring from Ryoko Owari Toshi's underworld. He made no effort to hide his disdain, nor his mistrust, but a potential asset was a potential asset. If Silver-chan had the resources to clandestinely contact four samurai of note—an ambassador among them—without being caught in the act, they were an ally worth courting in return, or a potential enemy worth eliminating. Which his dear sister decided to purpose was her own business. 

The final point was perhaps the one of most note. It required that he make use of the scroll carrier he had brought along, and once he had received permission to approach the ambassador's desk, he did just that. From the carrier he produced a large, freshly-inked map, made to as accurate a specification as could reasonably be managed in a city with so many secrets. 

"When I arrived in the city, Ide Nakato-sama requested that I make myself familiar with its layout, such that I could provide reliable intelligence when the time for our conquest came. It was fortuitous that I made the acquaintance of Doji Koharu-san shortly thereafter. I requested that she accompany me on a proper scouting of the walls."

Masanori quickly recounted what they had learned there, his finger sliding across the crisp parchment to point out each locale as he went. He spoke of which of the walls seemed strongest, which required repair, the various states of alert that the Thunder Guard in each district seemed to maintain, the way the bridges seemed rigged to crumble should the city fall, and even the presence of a Lion officer amongst the watchmen who heckled them during their trip, apparently inspecting the walls with the governor's leave. 

But as his explanation wound down, his finger passed the Eye towers, further into the fields beyond. It stopped near enough the location of his most prized piece of intelligence: the tunnel which led into the city proper.

"We found it towards the end of our scouting trip. It's camouflaged well enough that most would miss it if they didn't know what they were looking for. We only spotted it because a pair of peasants had made it an afternoon hideaway to shirk their duties. Needless to say, it is not entirely unknown to the lower classes. Whether this means the Scorpion are aware of it remains to be seen."

His finger traced along the map, guiding eyes along what he imagined to be its proper course under the river. 

"I cannot say how deep or how long it truly is, but at its widest point three or four men can stand abreast. It terminates around here, between the Grand Wharf and the Bridge of Drunk Lovers."

His eyes rose from the map thereafter, as if to see the reaction to the information before continuing further. 

||
William
Kazuko remained silent as Masanori relayed everything to her, the only sound punctuating his reports the frantic scribbling of pen and paper. Her eyes never left him as he moved through the topics of concern, absorbing it all, mulling it in her mind. He was *Good* At this: taking charge, organizing, leading. Far better than she would ever be. Would that he had been born heir and not her. It was a cruelty dealt to them both.

Finally, the debrief came to and end. Kazuko let a beat pass to ensure he had nothing left to say, then nodded her approval. "Very good, Utaku-san. Let us discuss these matters one at a time.

"First, the brewery incident. This is very troubling indeed. I believe there are some members of the late Ambassador's . . . Staff who have expertise in dealing with such matters. I would authorize them to devise a strategy for proactive measures in order to prevent such from arising again. This may be an angle to regain the Crab's goodwill; we shall continue coordinating with them." Kazuko took a pen and wrote the names of those she wished to send on this task. This would be the most straightforward of her plans.

The next matter was more delicate. Kazuko had always suspected the Scorpion Cartels had less control over the underworld than the stories claimed, and this all but proved it. A gang war under their very noses would be yet another crack in the armor surrounding the city. "I am loathe to work alongside criminals. However, if this one has the gall to call upon samurai as if they were equals, they are dangerous and powerful. And they struck the first blow against their enemy; expect retaliation soon. Continue to follow on this Silver, Utaku-san. I have full confidence you will not compromise your honor to please them, but if our goals align we can assist them. At least until their usefulness has run out."

Masanori truly saved the best for last. Kazuko's mind raced with possibility, sifting through the information. If only they still planned to march on the city. *Damn that fool of an Ide.* There had to be something here to give them an edge, but what was it? Then it hit her. "The Noble Quarter is *Designed* To fall. The enemy will rush into it thinking taking the seat of government will cause the city to fall. Instead they're being funneled into a kill zone. At best it will bog the attack down until the other clans whose samurai were overrun in the initial assault have the opportunity to demand recompense."

Kazuko tapped the Governor's Residence. "Which means the Scorpion have an escape route. Probably an easily collapsible tunnel that leads to a defensible location."

She next idly circled her finger around the locations of where Masanori indicated the beginning and end of the hidden tunnel. "This is incredibly valuable, Utaku-san. Work with this Doji Koharu-san to thoroughly scout its secrets, properly map it, and reinforce it if need be.

"Your assessment of the Crane worries me. I am told outside of the city they have proven invaluable in the courts; however, if they cannot support us here where we need them that is troubling." She rubbed her brow. Hopefully Doji Masanari would prove to be a valuable ally when she met with him. "If Doji Koharu-san is as capable as you say, I would like to meet her. Perhaps there is a way we can increase her influence, or else bring her into an environment her talents would go to better use. I *Have* Been given authority to offer marriage alliances within my family."

She let the point hang. Kenza would be aware of the power the offer of marrying into her family would give the Clan, though only Masanori would grasp the deeper meaning.

"Utaku Masanori-san, you continue to serve the clan with distinction, even when asked to perform tasks far outside you standard jurisdiction. I would ask that you assume direct control of all Unicorn military assets within the city. While I have tasks to assign to our other bushi, those will be in addition to however you see fit to lead your troops. Do not feel obligated to inform me of how you choose to utilize the men and women under your command, unless of course your actions could be taken as aggression against another clan."

There was one other piece of information she wished to fill in, one which—were her suspicions correct—would be most valuable to her efforts in two evenings' time. "The Lion Officer, let me guess: armor as clean as a fresh recruit, talks with a monotone that would make the finest Monk of Shinsei envious?"
Jane
Were it possible for Masanori's expression to harden further, then it certainly would have done so at the mention of *Marriage*. It was almost as if Kazuko hadn't been satisfied in simply shattering the tenuous peace he had built for himself in her absence—she meant to turn all his life's small joys away until they were naught but cinders in the wind. Her proposal would undoubtedly come with some backhanded speech about *Duty* And *Honor*, preaching to him about their importance, as if she hadn't spent the better part of their shared adulthood putting off her own match time and time again, such that she could continue to galivant around as a proud Shiotome for a few years longer. 

In the face of all that? The offer of command was but ash in his mouth. What did it truly matter? They did not have a proper fighting force in Ryoko Owari Toshi, and with the Imperials meddling in matters of the city, it was not as if they even had an opponent against which to deploy the forces they did have. It was little more than a sop, one meant to placate him in lieu of admitting that his purpose in the city had long since disappeared with Ide Nakato's faux paus. 

"I have never known many members of the Brotherhood, Utaku-sama. But it seems an accurate appraisal," He did well enough in hiding the chill in his voice, but the lack of warmth couldn't have been missed, "Have you had a similar encounter?"

||
William
*Stupid, stupid Kazuko. You did it again.* She wasn't sure what she said or did, Masanori wasn't satisfied. She gave him freedom and he thought she banished him, she got him out of being Ambassador, gave him an assignment where he would be comfortable. She even went against Mother's wishes and warned him of her authority about marriage. Somehow he was more upset. Did he not understand how difficult this was for her? The sleepless nights, the incessant prayers every morning to have enough strength to make it to the next day. It nearly broke her every time she saw his pain; was he truly so blinded that he did not even stop to consider hers? What she would give to see him smile and laugh again like when they were children. Just once would be enough.

The slightest of twitches passing across her lips was the only outward display of her internal turmoil. "Yes. If I am correct, that was their Ambassador, Ikoma Zenmai-san. I met her some time ago. We have kept in occasional contact since then."

She took a moment to roll her wrists, releasing a bit of the tension that had been growing. Then, she continued. "I plan to meet with everyone tomorrow morning after breakfast to provide a clear brief to all who bear our mon. That being said, I also will be meeting with everyone I can individually today. If you have any further questions, reservations, or recommendations, speak now or I will have the next samurai summoned. Of course, being my left and right hands so to speak you are welcome to remain here as I meet with the others."

||
Jane
It was difficult enough to tell whether Kazuko's displeasure was directed towards his chilliness or the presence of the one Ikoma Zenmai, but it mattered little enough in the end. Masanori did find it rather ironic, though. What were the odds of running into the face of the Lion while off on an anonymous scouting mission? Or for the two of them to somehow miss each other for the entirety of his two month tenure as ambassador for the Unicorn? He would have to mind himself doing forward, especially if their clan was to work alongside the Lion at the behest of the new Imperial administration. It couldn't be helped that she would eventually realize the apparent ronin she had so rudely dismissed was a proud scion of the Utraku family, but he could at least endeavor to avoid that reveal happening at an inopportune diplomatic moment. 

For all the tension that led up to their meeting, it seemed as though Kazuko had little more to say, either to himself or Kenza. That was likely for the best. Given his foul mood, any further interaction would be tinged with an unbecoming disdain. What he needed even less than his older sister breathing down his neck, was his older sister having a *Reason* To breathe down his neck. The less chafing between them, the better, and that meant having some distance. He bowed his head in response to her dismissal.

"I have nothing further to report, Utaku-sama. Thank you for your time."

Unless she meant to vex him further, the chui would offer a shorter bow towards the Suio and then make to leave the ambassador's chamber thereafter.

||
Hannah
Kenza remained quiet while the two spoke, his manner never more than composed nor any less than calm as the smile left his face. The trader had an easy manner and didn't allow his presence to pressure the siblings as they parleyed, moving his attention around the room or to the ring on his finger. The latter he worried a little more than normal as the slivers of concern, gifted to him by the Crab, threatened to return.

When his companion stood, Kenza bowed from his seat.
"Perhaps I shall see you at the bazaar, Utaku-sama?" He asked, though his tone sounded more like an offer - possibly a suggestive one, at that.
Regardless of an answer, he soon returned his attention to the more senior Utaku.
"I've little more to add, Utaku-sama. Thank you for the letter, I will inform you of any other developments. The bazaar will arrive within a few days and will soon be prepared."

||
I'm content to end my part in the scene here if we want to close ||
William
She inclined her head at the two of them. "Utaku-san, I leave you to your duties. Ide-san, I will visit your bazaar at my earliest availability once it is ready."

Really, Kazuko had hoped at least one of them decided to stay with her. But they both left her, busy with their duties no doubt. Leaving her alone to handle the next samurai on her list.

"Fuyuko-san, bring in the Shinjo."

||
Jesse
The Shinjo in the question, Inadoma, had been patiently awaiting to be called in. Their dry black umbrella had been placed propped up by the door, their purple kimono sleeves long enough to obscure his hands as Fuyuko approached, summoning him into Kazuko's room. His hands were hidden not out of malicious intend, or any kind of disrespect, but due to his hands suffering from an active tremor.

 He gave a smile and a bow to Fuyuko, floating through the door to the room and approaching infront of the desk of Kazuko. His steps were silent, and his movement without flaw as he met with Kazuko. To show an expressive vulnerability and lack of uncomfortability in himself to Kazuko, he separated his hands and exposed them from under the kimono sleeves to her as the muscles shook uncontrollably.

Often, it inhibited him from clenching his hand closed securely, and he often could only just hold a paintbrush for a few minutes while straining himself. One of his paintings, for example, he spent 3 weeks creating and perfecting, only allowing himself to paint that piece when he underwent these tremors.

 `"Greeting, Utaku-sama."` He spoke with great veneration before following up with a low and respectful bow, his hair and hands cleaned thoroughly before his arrival. He wished to make as best a first impression as he could.
William
Shinjo Inadoma. A mystery. The man had records she studied in preparation for her arrival, yet something was off. There was no way to put a finger on it, but she had seen and written enough military reports to know what intentional irregularities looked like. Given his service to the clan as a Magistrate, the probability he had to engage in sensitive matters was high. That was most likely what it was.

Regardless, she could not afford to ignore the services he could provide for their interests. The events of the winter were proof disunity within the Clan was lurking under the seams of the Embassy. She needed someone to root those ones out. Bowing curtly, she gestured for him to sit before taking a seat herself. The standard first words would be stated by Fuyuko as Kazuko settled into signing. "I bid you good day, Shinjo Inadoma-san. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life. Any words conveyed by her are my words, and I respectfully ask you to consider them with the same weight."

After observing his reaction, she continued. "First, I thank you for agreeing to see me. Please express my thanks to your wife as well for allowing me to pull you away from your family. When I received word you had settled in the city, it was clear the Fortunes smiled upon us. We are in dire need of a keeper of the peace such as yourself."

Trembling hands: a sign of nerves or an ailment? Her own hands would assuredly tremble should she stop signing, another fortuitous quirk granted by her method of communication. She was on her own now, alone with the fate of the clan on her shoulders, commanding complete strangers to wade into arenas she knew nothing about. "I have tasks for you, but first please, tell me of your opinion on this city and ask any questions you may have of me."

||
Jesse
Inadoma smiled, sitting down smoothly and keeping his hands exposed, refusing to hide them away from sight and allowing them to tremble openly. Any amount of medical knowledge would allow Kazuko to come to the conclusion that the shaking did not resemble that of simple nervousness, the shaking irregular and twitchy. If Kazuko was knowledgeable enough of nervous shakes, it were clear that what he was suffering from was medical. Inadoma sat still, the only moving being his hands as he listened, looking to Kazuko while listening to Fuyuko speak. Inadoma listened to the final line of question, '*Your opinion on this city*'. He could not help but slightly lower his head, a slight smirk finding its way onto Inadoma's mouth as it tugged at the left side. `"To place the security of my beloved wife and children within the Scorpion walls of Ryoko Owari Toshi is a choice I did not make lightly. It serves as a message and reminder to me."` Inadoma raised his head, expressing a more serious tone as he spoke clearly and precisely. `"To fight for the city is to fight for them."` He pronounced, exposing himself as a family orientated man and almost using it as a pledge of devotion to not only the Unicorn clan, but also to his family. If he were alone in this city, untied from family and with no strong reason to work and fight on behalf of the Unicorn, he believes that he would be lacking in drive for such a monumentous task. The word '*Fight*' did not so certainly mean battle and combat, but rather the expressive way of Inadoma saying that he would work hard no matter the hardships. 
➖

After such, he began to think on Kazuko's state, how she looked and how she was feeling. He was able to infer from the state of affairs how she was feeling, her look and appearance making it even clearer to Inadoma. He shortly began thinking of any questions he could muster up, but decided against it for the sake of Kazuko's stability. `"I have no questions as of currently, Utaku-sama."` He simply stated, bowing with his head from his seated position.
William
His words were enough for Kazuko to get a feel for the man. It was a noble cause he found himself in. "And fight we will, Shinjo-san. This city is wretched with evils, as I have begun to see even clearer now after a thorough recounting of events by Utaku Masanori-san. Together we shall combat this darkness, just as Lady Shinjo would have of any of her children."

It would still be challenging, however. She thought carefully, searching for her next words. "Though the city does not belong fully to the Scorpion any longer, it also does not belong to us. Thus your official restrictions as a Magistrate for our clan still restricts your direct actions. However, should you be asked to assist, lend aid however you are able. Spread your net wide to all you meet and soon they will come to us when troubles arise."

That was the pleasant duty. To be a watchful, friendly face throughout the city who people could come to trust, to rely on. Making allies so when inevitably something happened in the city there was only one clan with not just the skills, but the desire to help. And one who no one feared would use the opportunity to help as a chance for leverage.

"There is another matter, though it is less than pleasant to speak of. An internal matter, and one that must be addressed with all haste before it damages our reputation yet further within the city. If you are willing to take this on, of course." Her expression soured slightly. It was unpleasant business, and she would not fault him if he declined. However, if he refused, she did not wish to burden him with even the knowledge of this duty, so she paused, looking at him expectantly for a response.

||
Jesse
Inadoma smiled after her initial sentence highlighting how he were to lend aid however he could, and how he were to function as dependable magistrate to all he encountered. He were more then happy to proceed this way, knowing the value of allies. And if not allies, people who somewhat like you are good enough. `"I shall act within the parameters of my magistrate position, to support and aid as effectively as I can."` Inadoma was happy to undergo this task, it lining up well with his own personal goal in RoT. 

Only a brief moment later, however, his smile would slowly shift into a more serious and deliberate expression, matching and mirroring the gravity of the matter she spoke of. The vagueness, combined with the need for *Haste* And *Damaged reputation*, and finally the deliberate pause to ask for permission, allowed Inadoma to infer that this would not be such a simple task. But that were not the part that made him dissuaded, it were the fear of Inadoma regressing to his old ways. He had made promises to his wife, his children

And to Kenichi.

He paused. The kind of hesitation that expressively displayed great thought. It was clear to Kazuko that the decision he did not make in a split second, his focused and quick mind finally having to pause. He stared at Kazuko, and he opened his mouth, his hands finally freezing as they ceased their trembling.

`"I shall do it."`
William
It was a sign of wisdom to avoid brashly agreeing to something you could not bear. Kazuko was glad he did not respond immediately, searching within himself for the answer before deliberately and calmly responding. She nodded, then would continue.

"As you are no doubt aware, Ide Nakato-san caused an unrecoverable scene within the conference of the past winter, leading to his untimely demise." The matter was well-known, though not spoken of quite as plainly as Kazuko put it, by this point: both Ide Nakato and Shosuro Orochi were no longer among the living. "He has paid for his errors, and while his actions scarred our approach to what rightfully belongs to us, his death absolved his dishonor. The matter is closed.

"Unfortunately, I fear not everyone agrees." She shifted uncomfortably. "Ide-san arrived in Ryoko Owari with a contingent of loyal Unicorn soldiers. Most were able to place loyalty to the clan above loyalty to man. Gunso Moto Orichi was not one of them. He served as Nakato's yojimbo for many years before arriving at this city. Some said the two were tied by a karmic bond. He disappeared not days after the unfortunate event, taking two ashigaru with him. At the time it was believed they were in mourning."

Kazuko pushed forward a piece of paper, a handwritten note in rough but readable Mekhem. "Except he never returned. I was briefed just outside the city by my agent in the field, and he has been hearing rumors. Orichi blames the Scorpion and their allies for pushing Nakato to his death . . . And we have reason to suspect he blames his own kin for standing by and doing nothing to prevent it."

A strange thing, really. As a commander, Kazuko inspired loyalty. When the high ambitions, the noble dreams, were all burned away in the madness and destruction of battle, loyalty was all that remained. She trusted her brothers and sisters at arms with her life without question, and they did likewise. Under different circumstances, Orichi's undying loyalty would be an example to laud. And yet here it stood, threatening to tear apart the clan.

When she fell, would she too take down her friends with her?

"We cannot allow him to act. Even if we publicly disavow his actions, the damage will have been done. I hope he can be convinced to return to us without needless bloodshed or besmirching a reputation that until now has been without blemish." Her eyes dropped away from him, a darkness spreading across her features. "But he must be stopped at all costs."

||
Jesse
Inadoma listened very, very closely as he sat in his own silence, not ushering a word as every single word that Kazuko spoke was typed through his mind and memorised photographically, *Gunso Moto Orichi. Loyal to Ide Nakato to a fault. Vanished from Ryoko. Now blames the Scorpion and is using the Unicorn coat to push his own ideals, betraying the clan.*
A rogue agent that would be a constant, lurking threat to the stability of the Unicorn. Someone who could not be trusted to be unseen, like a coiled viper. Inadoma had leaned forward, observing and committing the Mekhem note to memory also, before leaning back and staring at Kazuko for a moment. 

Inadoma was quick to agree, only needing a split second to decide what information he needed to begin. `"Names of any known accomplices, last known location, identity of the Ashigaru, a full documentation of the skills and specialities of Gunso Moto Orichi."` He sharply spoke as if the selection of his words had been practiced and spoken by him many times, his familiarity with the way of speaking clear to Kazuko. Despite this, he was still thinking on what the situation may unfold into, and how drastic he may have to be. This was the kind of mission where no shortcuts could be taken, no holding back could proceed, nothing left unturned and nothing missed. He had to be thorough for the security and stability of everyone around him. This led his eyebrows to furrow, imagining what actions he may force himself into making. Was it acceptable for Inadoma to take such a path in the name of the Unicorn? Was it acceptable for him to risk his promises, outing him as a liar to his own wife? Was it acceptable for him to do all of this, to halt someone who could begin an all out war within Ryoko Owari Toshi? The city where his wife and children now resides? He believed so.

It were a means to an end.
William
A breath Kazuko did not realize she had been holding was released, and a slight amount of the tension between her shoulders eased. How comfortably he slipped into his role with his questions. This is always how it was: Kazuko out of her depth, unprepared and unworthy of her assignment, buoyed by the competence of the men and women around her. "Known accomplices: any of the Moto and ashigaru who arrived in the city alongside Ide-san. While none of the others left with the gunso, we cannot rule out the possibility of support from within our walls. The ashigaru were Gansukh and Yargui, husband and wife.

"As to his capabilities, he is an officer of a small but elite task force who also served as yojimbo to an Ide Ambassador in Medinaat. I expect his skill with the blade to be as formidable as his ability to survive the hostile world outside of Rokugan. He has an impressive knowledge of ancient and evil magic, though I doubt he will turn to such after a lifetime fighting against those horrors." She was careful in the words she chose, not being quick to write the man off as a criminal just yet. Decades of faithful service should never be repaid with instant suspicion. "My agent in the field believes he found an encampment outside the city the three used recently. He can meet you outside the walls and show you at your convenience."

She flipped the note around, wrote on the back of it and gave it to Inadoma. "Leave this near Moment's Edge Bridge the night before you wish to speak with him. He will be there when you need."

Once again she found herself searching for the right words. How did she tell a fellow member of her clan what came next? "Of course, you understand the need for discretion on this matter. Bring in only allies you trust. I stress again, bring him back to his senses if at all possible. Shinjo's Law stands, none under my command will ever be allowed to spill the blood of a brother or sister.

"However," She continued, gesturing to the empty spot on her daisho stand where her scimitar should be, "If Unicorn blood must be accounted for, my blade is being sanctified by the methods we have passed down for generations. That burden is mine to bear."

||
Jesse
*Small but elite task force*. Inadoma were confident in his physical abilities, and even more confident in his mental abilities, but even then he were already beginning to think towards gathering backup. Despite bloodshed being avoided by Inadoma above all else, sometimes it were inevitable that someone would hunger for it. And Orichi seemed like someone who would. Inadoma made mental notes of all he was told, refusing to write it anywhere - Even in his encoded journal he kept with it. *Discretion was a must*, which meant nothing could be documented besides the note that he were passed, which would most certainly be burnt later down the line. 

*Blood being spilt*
He listened to what Kazuko said, but was eager to dissuade her line of thought. He reached into a hidden pocket within his Kimono, one that kept the weighty and distinctly shaped Jutte secure and out of sight, not even the outline being visible. It were clear, even before he procured it, that he had no intention of intimidation tactics when it came to weaponry. He drew it slowly, grabbing it from the opposite end of the handle and presenting it to Kazuko, `"I swore a vow that no more blood shall stain my hands, and I will endeavor always for non-violence."` 

He said, acting somewhat materialistic as he presented the Jutte. Inadoma held meaning to objects, and he was unable to hide that when raising his points Kazuko, evident by his many engraved rings and the wooden Netsuke hanging from his clothing. He shortly after replaced the Jutte back to its resting place.

He were unable to make solid promises, unable to ensure the safe return of Orichi, unable to promise the return of senses as Kazuko put it. It were a volatile and multi facetted operation that could branch in any direction. Despite this, he gave a bow from his seated position, `"I shall ensure that this task be taken with the utmost care and delicacy, and to tell you to please rest your mind. This operation is safe in my hands."` He said, rising.
William
"Good," Kazuko replied curtly as she accepted the jitte to inspect it. She also did not wish to bring the matter to a violent end, yet she needed to be prepared for any eventuality. It was good they shared a similar goal. Hopefully he would never be called upon to break that vow. "Though I would advise against brandishing weapons in our next discussion. Usually I do not take kindly to such."

It was a slight reprimand for his bold display. The intent behind it may have been good, but perhaps Inadoma needed to be reminded it was not the course of wisdom to reveal he carried a concealed weapon into a meeting. Regardless, she had already dismissed the man's combat capabilities as harmless and had no concerns herself. The tremor was not nerves, and clearly he wouldn't be in a position to make a precise attack at her.

"I have nothing further for you at this time. I only ask that you attend breakfast with our brothers and sisters tomorrow morning, so that you may meet some of our other samurai and perhaps receive another more pleasant assignment should I think of one." Regarding him again with the jitte in her hands, she absently flipped it and handed it back to him handle first. "If you have nothing else, you are dismissed."

||
Jesse
He nodded, closing his eyes briefly as he looked down. Taking the Jutte back without making eye contact and replacing it. He rose from his seated position, bowing deeply to her. `"It was a pleasure to meet with you, Utaku-sama. I shall clean my schedule in preparation for the breakfast and be there to attend it."` He rose from the bow, making eye contact briefly with Kazuko before turning to leave, holding the note that were given to him and glancing down at it to memorise it, just incase he ever needed to replicate the message.
William
"The pleasure is mine, Shinjo-san. May the Four Winds be ever at your back." She held his gaze and bowed her head in dismissal. As the Magistrate passed out of sight, she slumped forward, propping her arms at the table and resting her head between her hands.

She remained like that as a minute passed by, before inhaling sharply and slowly rising into a proper, poised sitting position. She could do this. It would be easier after today, wouldn't it? It had to be.

"Fuyuko, send for the . . . " She checked her list of personnel. "Show Shinjo Temujin-san in."

||
Emma
Temujin waited patiently outside of the office. Though he was somewhat familiar with the residence's layout, nothing could change the feeling of weighty, formal anticipation that came from being summoned by a superior.

The minute or so that passed after Inadoma's departure certainly didn't help matters, though he gave his serious-looking kinsman a small, polite bow as he departed.

But finally, his time came. Temujin inwardly prayed to Lady Shinjo for her luck, and rose to meet Utaku-sama's servant. Nevertheless, he did bow to her, and with a level of respect and sincerity most samurai wouldn't bother giving a heimin.

"Thank you. And I hope you have been well since your arrival? This city is *Very* Different from Unicorn lands."

Small talk, and perhaps little would come of it. Most heimin, even honoured servants, took care to show respect and deference to samurai, even though this city's balance of power was quite different.

But the simple moment of friendly politeness helped calm Temujin's doubts. He wanted to show respect to a loyal servant, and if it was taken as a pleasant surprise, so much the better.

Nevertheless, he didn't keep Utaku-sama waiting. Temujin entered the room. He entered, slowed to a halt, and bowed deeply in a fluid motion.

"Greetings, Utaku-sama." Temujin said respectfully. And for this meeting, he opted to dress "Conservatively" In his kimono, haori, and hakama. The Utaku may be more accepting of the gaijin styles within their Clan, but perhaps showing tradition due respect would help.

*Kaede-san spoke of her with respect. Nii-san said she'd achieved more than I ever had at my age. What's the great war hero really like?*

||
William
Fuyuko respectfully kept her eyes downcast as she replied to him. "Yes, Shinjo-sama, it is very different. But my husband and children have accompanied me here, so I find it a challenge more easily met."

Kazuko regarded the man who entered with a studious gaze. Once more she sat with the perfect poise and elegance a leader should, no evidence of her previous state displayed on her features. After he introduced himself, she bowed curtly, gestured for him to take a seat, and began with her customary introductory signs and Fuyuko's accompanying words: "I bid you good day, Shinjo Temujin-san. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life. Any words conveyed by her are my words, and I respectfully ask you to consider them with the same weight."

After a brief pause to let her explanation settle in, she would begin to sign again, her eyes never leaving the Shinjo. She had sent orders to Shinjo Mifune before, and knew him as an apt and able soldier. Time to see if the records she had collected on his younger brother were true. "There is much to do in this city if we are to secure the foothold my predecessor lost. I will be using ever tool at my disposal in order to accomplish this; be ready. But first, as one who has been in the city far longer than I, please tell me of your opinion on this city and ask any questions you may have of me."

||
Emma
The Shinjo smiled gently to hear Fuyuko's answer. Even if it was given out of deference, he was thankful for it.

"It is good to have the support of family; I pray you will be able to enjoy much time with them between your duties."

Then he entered, faced with a stern, handsome Utaku with a warrior's mien. As Kazuko spoke through Fuyuko, Temujin returned the greeting, took his seat and listened carefully. His eyes turned to the heimin for only a moment in response to the speaking arrangement. But he knew not to fixate on this, and focused on the great war hero.

*Focused. Like Masanori-sama, not one for empty courtesies when there's a goal in mind. The image of a Shiotome, certain and stoic. But she treats Fuyuko-san honourably; that is always worth something.*

After Kazuko asked for his insights, he wanted to say he was only a fairly new arrival himself. But his intuition suggested that with her, it was better to be to the point rather than modest, however honestly meant.

"With respect, Utaku-sama, I believe Ryoko Owari Toshi lives up to its names and its reputation." Temujin began evenly but pointedly while still facing her. Kazuko would see that he spoke about the city with caution, but neither fear nor disgust. His posture was upright and proper, though also ready to move at a moment's notice.

"There is prosperity and opportunity, but also danger and corruption, down every street and alley. And like a Winter Court, we are packed in closely with other Clans working towards their own ends. Despite our claim to it, it's a *Very* Different place from our homes; for our Clan to thrive here, we must adjust our tactics and adapt, as we did on our Exodus and our Return."

A wordy assessment, perhaps. He remembered making Masanori-sama wait. And the last was plain to see for any familiar with the city's history, let alone the commanding Unicorn Shiotome *Taisa*. But he shared that view to show that he was aware of the true danger behind the city.

"As for questions..." He began slowly, his thoughts turning their focus from scouting dangerous territory to himself. Temujin trailed off into a moment of thought.

Familiar doubts reared their heads: *Why me? Why a scout, not a diplomat? Ide-sama would serve better. Do I really belong? When will I see home again?*

These mingled with other thoughts, his outrider's mind trying to put together the bigger picture: *What is the Clan's strategy? Do we really need this city? Do we have a plan to hold it? Will it come to battle?*

His face and voice remained composed, thoughtful. But the doubts and curiosity made their way to his eyes, if Kazuko looked closely enough. He *Was* Still a Shinjo, and no matter the years at court, honest expression came to him instinctively.

But the moment passed. Not from resolving the thoughts, but because he was a samurai, and trained to push them aside. So all that lay before him was this esteemed Utaku, her eyes stern yet familiar. And one thought was left to leave his lips.

"Utaku-sama. Do you believe we can hold this city with our honour intact?"

He asked that, not as a wide-eyed youth fresh from their gempukku, nor as a cynic seeing a doomed endeavour, but as a seasoned scout assessing danger. That was a situation Bing-Hyun-sensei taught him to expect: The outrider can only give information. It is the commander who acted on it, accepting risks.

||
William
It was encouraging to see the man's skill with words was as the reports indicated. Much more polished and refined than she could hope to be. And he did not hold back from expressing his opinion. All of these were the sign of a fine addition to the growing field of battle that was the Unicorn under her care. "Indeed this place is very different than where we call home. Some say it is too different, that it was never ours to begin with. Yet we know the ancestral claims of our forbears."

His question was troubling, slightly souring the opinion she had been cultivating over his first words. Sowing doubt in the ranks was not what she needed at any time, much less now, at such an important moment. Even more troubling was the lengthy pause before he asked. Out of all the questions that must have come through his mind, this is the one he came up with? "You know well it is not a question of whether we can. It is a matter that we must. Our Champion would not command us to go forth in this manner if it was not guided by Shinjo herself. This city is a den of crime, and it is our obligation to either destroy such or redirect it from the shadows into something better, more honorable."

An observant ear would note not once did she state her own beliefs as Temujin had asked. The words were firm, direct, and powerful, but not hers. It was what Kazuko knew she must say, and must believe to do what was needed. The truth? Kazuko doubted she or anyone else could avoid breaking under this city eventually. It was a matter of doing what must be done before that point.

"Now, our records state you have spent much time as a diplomatic aide to Ide Yesugei-san. This is excellent." Temujin was a soldier and a diplomat, if the accounts were right. It wasn't uncommon among the Shinjo particularly to find those who straddled the line between war and court. However, which would he be best suited? Kazuko had her hopes, but only time would tell. "While your skills as a scout and soldier will always be useful and called upon, we find ourselves with a shortage of diplomats. Frankly, my own skills at court are practically nonexistent. I need men and women who can be what I lack."

It was blunt, and the admission of her lack of ability as a courtier may not have been the best at instilling confidence. However, Kazuko was not one to give false hope. If this man was willing to put his life into her hands, he deserved to know exactly what he was getting himself into.

||
Emma
Inwardly, Temujin's spirit couldn't help but flinch at the rebuke, though he received it stoically as one should.

Tough love, bitter medicine, those he could handle. But a reprimand as blunt as that, as if he was a child unaware of the stakes, felt raw, condescending, and-

*Just like Mifune-nii.*

The realisation hit him like a Shiotome charge, and his thoughts raced as Utaku-sama continued signing her more positive evaluation.

*Not her words. Well, aside from being spoken through Fuyuko-san. Words of the Clan, of Duty. She* Needs *To believe in them. Is she like a Lion, removing all self so only the samurai is left? Or like nii-san, clinging to it to hold herself together?*

It was a surprise. But he still knew too little from this first meeting to tell which it was. Perhaps he could piece it together in time, but for now, she was simply a *Taisa* Devoted to the Clan's goals.

Alright, then. He'd just have to deal with her not just as a superior, but as if he was speaking with his older brother: with duty and certainty.

As soon as she concluded by saying she needed diverse skills, Temujin lowered his head respectfully and spoke. And hopefully, she would be able to tell he meant what he said.

"Then I will give my all for the Clan whatever the duty, Utaku-sama. As I pledged to Utaku Masanori-sama, as I do to you, direct me as you see fit."

He raised himself up once, just enough for her to see it on his face: He was willing to do this, and he trusted and respected her leadership.

Then he bowed deeply from where he sat, past the tabletop. 

"And I apologise, Utaku-sama. It is not my place to question the will of our Clan; only to see it done."

No excuses, no explanations for his question unless requested. Perhaps as a warrior like Masanori-sama she didn't place much stock in such courtesies, but this was the proper way of things. He would follow her lead from her response, whether to dismiss him or continue their meeting.

||
William
"You need not apologize for speaking your mind, Shinjo-san." Kazuko waved a hand dismissively. While his words were troubling, she was glad he felt comfortable in saying them to her. It was better to be open than let such concerns fester. "Consider my offices a place you can place any concerns or doubts to me without fear of reprisal. As long as the meeting is private, of course."

This man before her had lived the same number of years as she, saw similar trials and triumphs no doubt, and now stood before her ready to obey her any command. It was another reminder of how devastating the War of the Plains had been to the experienced samurai of the Unicorn. Had the war never occurred Kazuko doubted she would have found herself a taisa, and could have been spared all this. Oh to be as Temujin, free to act and yet never having to worry about more than he and his.

Her eyes went unfocused for a moment as these thoughts went through her head before snapping back to him. "I would like to assuage concerns you may have. I do not intend to throw you immediately into the fires of intense diplomacy. Let us ease you into such matters and how the city operates."

She slid a paper toward him, on it what appeared to be crude sketches of a large boat. "The Mantis have nearly completed work on a large pleasure craft. We need a presence on that vessel, and have been moving to make . . . If not allies, then at least associates of their clan. The one thing that ship is bound to be missing is a place for the martially-inclined to blow off steam. I would like you to make an offer to the Mantis that we establish a martial arts ring aboard their vessel. Profits will be shared, and we will schedule exhibition matches which can show off the strength of our soldiers."

It was a test of his skills in some ways. The inroads with the Mantis would not be stymied should he fail. It was also an easier assignment than the ones Kazuko took on for herself. The Mantis were often more understanding of small breaches of etiquette, and she didn't want to overwhelm the man with smoothing over relations with the Lion or Phoenix. A nice way to get his feet wet. "We have the good fortune of maintaining a Bariqu wrestler in our ranks, Moto Shadee-san. I ask that you take her with you in order to show the Mantis the sort of champion fighter we can offer should they accept."

||
Emma
Temujin raised himself up as she dismissed the apology, nodding in grateful acknowledgement as Fuyuko translated. She would note there was a bit more ease in his eyes, though he gave their meeting its due respect.

"Your graciousness is appreciated, Utaku-sama," He replied. "I will take care not to speak needlessly."

Words that could be lip service, perhaps. But he meant it; even the most liberal Shinjo scout was taught the importance of duty and adhering to the chain of command.

When she had her own moment of introspection, he diverted his gaze so as not to stare, studying the room more closely. From the corner of his vision, though, he wondered how the heimin responded to her master's pauses.

*A moment lost to thought. Concern for the city? Her family? Or me?*

The moment passed, and a task was assigned. Temujin listened intently; Kazuko would be able to tell that while he maintained a proper face of reserved acceptance, his eyes held curiosity and even a bit of anticipation. If anything, he felt grateful rather than slighted to have a more forgiving assignment, thinking it an astute choice given what she knew.

Temujin studied the sketch (keeping his dislike of sailing well buried), then bowed his head in acknowledgement.

*No doubt the other Clans want a spot on it like it's a lesser Ryoko Owari Toshi. And the Mantis will be aware of the risks... And the prices they can set for their permission.*

"We will strive to see it done, Utaku-sama," He responded. Raising his head, he followed up by asking "Do we have permission to negotiate and accept terms ourselves if the Mantis require an immediate response? I hope to avoid *Overstepping* My authority."

This was said with a knowing look; he was not present for Ide Nakato's infamous presentation, but he had studied enough of the Clan's accounts. Again, perhaps an obvious question, but one meant to show caution, awareness of their situation, and placing the Clan's interests first.

||
William
A wise question. Temujin would be functioning as a diplomat, but one without the authority given to an ambassador proper. It seemed his previous mentor taught him well. If only she had a mentor in the arts of court. "I appreciate your asking for permission. As long as their requests do not in any act counter to our will and values, and so long as it will not put us at odds with our current allies, you have full authority for terms."

It did not need to be stated that the Mantis and Crane were antagonistic in the best of times. As much as Kazuko wanted to pull the Mantis away from the Scorpion, there was no reason to harm her clan's treaties with the children of Lady Doji. Unless of course Masanori's appraisal of them was as accurate as he believed it to be. Kazuko had no reason to doubt him, but she needed to see it with her own eyes before formulating a conclusion that could change the power dynamic of the Emerald Empire.

"Do you have any other questions, or matters you wish to discuss with me?" She looked at him with sincerity, genuinely interested in her subordinate's thoughts. "If not, then you are dismissed."

||
Emma
The Shinjo listened attentively and carefully noted Kazuko's instructions, nodding with gratitude.

"Thank you, Utaku-sama. I will be sure to handle this with care."

Temujin was also aware of the Mantis' belligerent relationship with the Crane (and to a lesser extent, their feuds with the Phoenix). He knew not to overplay that relationship one way or the other, though he was less familiar with their passivity in Ryoko Owari Toshi.

*Still, I've seen them work. It's very hard to notice, but always for their own ends.*

He dismissed the thoughts from his head for now. Best to leave such policies to the higher ups.

When Kazuko asked if he had other questions, a bit of surprise crossed his eyes to see her sincere interest. Not that he doubted she was a good leader, but rather because it was quite a contrast to her earlier demeanour.

He shook his head and smiled warmly.

"Not at the moment, Utaku-sama. For now, I will study what I can of recent events and our relations here. Should anything come to mind, I will seek out you or our Clanmates best able to answer. Although..."

He looked from the Shiotome, to Fuyuko, then back to Kazuko.

*To show support or understanding... Would that be welcome, or a humiliation?*

Temujin dropped a portion of his trained expression of duty, and let his own sincerity show with a respectful bow.

"As someone out of his element yet willing to serve, allow me to say this much: I am glad and honoured that we are led by someone who knows our situation. As Ide-sama taught me: The herd flourishes together."

It wasn't that Kazuko showed any weakness. To Temujin, she and Masanori seemed quite strong and prepared, if frustrated. But he could at least tell: This was a leader used to open war, now forced to contend in the City of Lies.

Acknowledging her own trials was unthinkable right now... But he could at least drop a hint of support. He would leave if she had nothing further to add, though follow up if she did.

||
William
By all rights Kazuko should have taken offense to Temujin's words. Fuyuko certainly looked appropriately shocked. They could be considered a veiled stab at her abilities to command in this arena, masked as camaraderie. If one added the previous question insinuating the Clan may have bitten off more than it could chew in deciding to take the city to these words, it may have been enough for harsher discipline than a few scalding words.

Yet he was right. She *Wasn't* Sure the Unicorn would gain anything of value from this city in its current state, and she *Was* Woefully unprepared for her assignment. She closed her eyes, breathing in deeply before she returned her gaze at the Shinjo. "Yes, we are stronger united in purpose and most importantly trust. It is why I expect you to attend breakfast tomorrow morning, where I will ensure all know what our plans moving forward consist of.

"I am sure you will rise to the needs of the Clan, challenging though they may be. And I will ensure your skills as a warrior are not put to waste either. Carry the Four Winds, Shinjo-san." With that she dismissed him. Should he prove himself in this first political arena, there was much more that needed to be done. But that was a briefing for another time.

||
Emma
Temujin was certainly aware of the shocked expression on Fuyuko and Utaku-sama's display of self-control.

*...You just had to open your mouth, Temujin.*

He bit back an instinctive apology, the urge to prostrate himself. And was surprised to hear her... Agree with him.

Well, even if it was merely politeness, he decided he had tested his luck far too much, and simply accepted the way out.

"With the Lady's speed, Utaku-sama," He responded, evoking their founder in reply. He did try to convey trust and respect, but in the final moments of a dismissal, there was only so much he could do.

With that, Temujin left the room to return to his quarters. And once out of sight of any samurai, he would let loose a sigh of relief.

*Ide-sama, I hope you know what you're doing. Because I'm starting to think I don't.*
William
"Kazuko, are you sure about this?" Fuyuko waited until the Shinjo was out of earshot before kneeling next to her lady. Still, she kept her voice quiet in case anyone happened to pass by. "He met with us for scarcely minutes and already insulted us and the Clan twice!"

Kazuko held up a hand. Was she sure? No. Yet trust was the backbone on which they needed to move forward. And it wasn't as if she had any other options. "He is devoted to serve the Unicorn, and that is enough for me. We can always raise up those who are failing so long as we are not the ones to stamp them down."

Fuyuko bowed. If only her lady heard to her own words. Perhaps she would realize how hypocritical she sounded right now: believing in others while never putting faith in herself. But that was not her place to say. Not here at least.

"It looks like a few of those you sought to speak with are still out on duty shifts. Perhaps now is a good time to meet Ide-san's former retainer?" Fuyuko stood, waiting on Kazuko's instructions.

"I suppose. Fetch the ronin."
Jane
It was a strange thing. Atsuko had served the Unicorn for only three months, and in that time found herself at the beck and call of as many leaders. How Utaku Kazuko would treat her comparative to the men before her was a matter of contention—the Shiotome were a ferocious bunch, renown for their almost fatalistic focus on the honor of their conduct. While one might have taken that to mean they would not sully themselves with cruelty, the mere act of sharing a room with a lowly ronin was likely stain enough on that glistening honor that even their most stalwart would sour. There was little choice in the matter, however. If she wished to continue to receive their patronage, she would need to meet with the newest ambassador and pray that she still had need for a hired sword.

The approach to the ambassador's office was familiar enough to her that she scarcely needed an escort. Up the stairs and a polite wait outside the doors until she was summoned inside, then a slight walk through the doors and before the dais. A deep bow, straighten up, and try not to look as anxious as she felt. Practiced as it was, it still led her to stand before a stern, imposing looking woman with whom she shared little and less. 

"You summoned for me, Utaku-sama?"

A little forward to address her would-be master, but her boldness had won her the job in the first place. Perhaps it would help her keep it. Or expedite the process of losing it. Either way, the worrying would come to an end by the time she left the room. 

||
William
Kazuko nodded and motioned for her to take a seat. A child? She did her best to mask most of her surprise. This girl had replaced Moto Orichi as the late Ambassador's yojimbo. Either Nakato-san truly did become a madman in his final months, or she was that good. Either way, it's not as if he used her in the duel. Her skill was as yet unproven. The same words would come out of Fuyuko as Kazuko began the meeting: "I did, Atsuko-san. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life. Any words conveyed by her are my words, and I respectfully ask you to consider them with the same weight."

After waiting a beat to ensure her words were clearly understood, she continued. "We need to discuss the future of the arrangement between our clan and yourself. First, however, how would you describe your observations here: both in the City of Lies, and more importantly in the employ of the Unicorn?"

Before she made any offers or promises, she needed to make sure that nothing Nakato had done soured the girl's opinion of the Clan. A disgruntled ronin would make an easy target for their enemies to turn into an asset for their own gain. Enough damage had already occurred, and Kazuko was not about to let it get worse. Even a single wave woman could turn the tide of battle. It had happened before.
Jane
The meeting began on an unconventional note even from the get go. Needing to go through a translator to speak with a Unicorn was one of the crueler japes that other samurai would make at the clan's expense, though it was usually more a jab towards their foreign roots than a mockery of an assassination attempt. Part of her wondered how a woman who could not speak could rise to such a prominent position of leadership, but the Atsuko had the good sense not to make such a ponderance out loud. 

She had much more pressing matters to address in the interim. The question posed was simple and complex in equal measure. Giving one's thoughts on a matter was simple enough: everyone had them, after all. But the true test of a retainer was knowing when to keep them to themselves, and how to phrase them in the most agreeable way possible when forced to share them with a superior. Thus, the ronin had to carefully consider her every word before they left her lips. Making it seem as though she disliked her time with the Unicorn was a surefire way to find herself unemployed, but being overly agreeable was likely to get her branded a lickspittle too desperate to maintain her position to be trusted.

"It has been... Interesting, for certain. Before I arrived in Ryoko Owari Toshi, I could count the number of cities I visited on one hand. Wandering through villages and market towns scarcely prepares you for such a sprawl. It's chaotic, and strange, and sometimes difficult to navigate. The people here behave much differently from everywhere else I've ever been. Bold and cunning, but often not better off for it."

She was sure the woman before her had her own preconceived notions of the city. Even Atsuko had heard the tales of the fabled City of Lies long before she glanced its proud walls. If Utaku Kazuko were anything like the Battle Maidens she had grown up hearing tell of, she probably disdained the place as the den of vipers that it often was. But that didn't mean it was all terrible.

"It was hard to adapt, at first, but I managed to. There's satisfaction to be had in conquering the city, one small challenge at a time. Whether it's trying to figure out the lay of the streets, or where you can get the best dumplings, or which Thunder Guards like to heckle ronin for hand-gifts. I feel similarly about my time with the Unicorn. When I came to Ide-sama, I had offered my services as a bodyguard. Only a week or two later, I found myself treating with the Crab and hunting yokai in the streets."

It dawned on her that she was likely talking to much, a poor habit of hers when she let her nerves get the better of her. Atsuko hoped the new ambassador was a woman who liked to listen. She certainly couldn't have been one who liked to speak.

"Apologies for my rambling, Utaku-sama. It's difficult to put to words how I feel about such a diverse array of experiences. If I had to be more succinct, I suppose I would say that I am satisfied with the tasks I have undertaken in the name of your esteemed clan."

||
William
A ronin with a measure of eloquence. Who would have thought most of them capable of such coherent thought. Kazuko listened to the girl's entire speech. Carefully constructed and delivered. She was a good find indeed. But she needed to know where things truly stood between the Unicorn and her. She needed to know how to keep their hold on her.

"Do not apologize for speaking your mind, Atsuko-san. It is what I asked for, after all. And it pleases me to hear you are satisfied with the tasks we have provided for you." She gazed long and hard at the young girl, trying to get a feel for how she might respond to her next line of questioning. "Which leads me to my next question: what would it take to break your commitment to us and give it to another? Money, status, prestige? Speak truthfully, and know it does not reflect poorly on your service to have a price for loyalty."

She was ronin after all, and one could not expect them to have the same devotion as a clan samurai. It was the nature of things, no matter the words she spoke Atsuko was a wave woman and thus driven by a baser set of needs than a samurai would be.
Jane
Another question followed the first. A far more difficult question to handle, at that. There truly wasn't a good way to go about answering *What would it take for you to betray us?*, of course. The fact it needed to be asked in the first place was quite informative—it told her that Utaku Kazuko already expected there to be a condition to her allegiance. As such, trying to assuage such a worry by insisting that she would never abandon their cause was right out the window. She doubted the older woman would believe her no matter how much she swore it. All the same. It would have been a lie regardless of how much she forced herself to believe it.

It was true enough that she had grown up in the Ide lands, and that the family had treated her fairly in her time under their employ. But their contract was strictly mercantile. They provided her with generous compensation and she applied her skills in their name until such a time as the contract no longer benefitted both parties. They were no more obligated to continue paying for her service as she was to continue providing it. Perhaps if she had been given the opportunity to swear herself properly to Ide Nakato before his demise, things would have been different. As they stood, she was little more than an ongoing expense that needed justifying.

"That is a hard thing to answer as well, Utaku-sama. The Unicorn have been good to me in my short time under your employ. Better than most of my employers, in truth. But it would be a lie to claim that there are not conditions that would lead me to part ways with the clan."

What conditions? It was difficult enough for her to imagine a better arrangement, owing to the fact she had never experienced one. She had a roof to sleep under, a place to train in peace, three square meals a day and enough of a stipend to purchase whatever she had need of whenever she needed it. Material desires were far from foreign to her, of course, so there were always the obvious answers: more money, finer clothes, better accommodations. They were hungers beneath a woman as austere and dignified as Utaku Kazuko, though, so Atsuko doubted it would be met by little more than scorn. 

If she was to bear the woman's scorn regardless, perhaps it was worth the attempt. Maybe she would even be given some such luxuries, an attempt to satiate her yearning before it led to drifting loyalties. But more koku in her pockets and finer silks on her back weren't the only things she craved. She had looked up at the samurai caste all her life, coveting not only their wealth, but their status. A status she had been denied by the negligence of her supposed sire. 

"At the risk of appearing grasping and insatiable, I suppose the answer is simple enough: if there were ever a time when another offered me the chance to significantly better my position in life, I would have no choice but to take it," It was such a horribly mercenary thing to admit that it was almost freeing to say, "It is not my place to bore you with the tale of a lowly ronin such as myself, but it would be a betrayal of everything I have worked so hard towards to refuse a chance at climbing higher in life, and claiming what ought to have been mine to begin with."

If there was one thing she might have regretted admitting, it was the last few words out of her mouth. Most samurai would find such entitlement to be laughable at best and offensive at worst, but the Utaku had asked for truth, and so she received it. There was a tension in the girl's shoulders that she hadn't acknowledged until it started to loosen, and with it, came the smallest, most subtle of sighs.

"If it is any consolation to you, Utaku-sama, I do not intend to go turncloak at the first offer of greater compensation. Should the incredibly unlikely time every come that I am offered better, I will tender my resignation before thinking to take up with another clan's cause. I owe both the Unicorn, and myself, that much respect."

||
William
Through her explanation Kazuko remained focused on the girl, unmoving and unwavering in her gaze. All ronin could be summed into one of two categories: the shamed and the shameless. Atsuko was the latter. Someone who would do whatever it took to climb as high as possible. No doubt she had already suffered greatly throughout her brief life because of her ambitions.

In some small way she empathized with the girl: the solitary struggle to live up to a standard of one's own creation, no favors received from others. At least until the words left the ronin's mouth *What ought to have been mine to begin with.* The slightest twitch of her brow at the phrase was the only external display of any discontent.

"Atsuko-san, you answer truthfully, plainly, and boldly to one several times you're better." Fuyuko placed a parchment and pen before Kazuko as a poignant pause spread across the room. "Good. I am not here to listen to flowing deceptions by those under my care. That you would have the decency to resign with us before joining another already places you above many ronin I have dealt with in the past."

As the daughter of the Utaku Daimyo, Kazuko was in the position to give many things: wealth, housing, weaponry. Even clan sponsorship. All she had to do was write the letter and it would be done. She could wield the promise such power gave to keep Atsuko in her clutches for years. It would be so easy. But Kazuko did not want bought loyalty.

"You seek a lofty goal, girl. One desired by many, and attained by few. Perhaps if you had proved your skill and honor in defending Ide Nakato-san this meeting would be to bestow that very thing upon you." She scowled, letting unpleasant memories of long meetings with her mother fill her mind. "However, apparently he could not even be bothered to allow his own yojimbo to perform a duty they were meant to. The fool chose to fight himself for reasons I *Still* Do not comprehend. Regardless, the past is in the past. I am here now, and now must prove yourself to me.

"Beginning with my clearing the notion that *Any* Samurai under my care *Deserve* Anything, including their status. I care not if you are a daimyo's heir or a peasant masquerading as nobility, you will receive no special treatment from me until you have given me reason to do so." She took a brief break from signing to write several lines on the parchment in front of her. This was a lesson drilled into her from the moment she joined the school of the Shiotome, the moment "Mother" Became "General". "Of which I am now giving you the opportunity. There is still an Ide under my roof who requires martial assistance, and I am hereby assigning you to his care. It may not be as glamorous as yojimbo to the Ambassador himself, but your services as his security will be both needed and appreciated."

Giving the paper one last look before nodding, she flipped it around and passed it to Atsuko. She would maintain full use of the Residence and its facilities, and receive a monthly stipend from the Kazuko in addition to her carte blanche approval to whatever additional terms Ide Kenza worked out with the ronin.

"I will not entrap you into our service with honeyed promises of status as some clans are wont to do. It is unfortunate that you must start over in proving yourself to me and no doubt unfair, and I would not fault you for finding a faster path to sponsorship." It was harsh but true. Nothing worthwhile was easy, and while she was certain the ronin would not appreciate additional setbacks Kazuko was hopeful she would at least grasp the reasoning. If she didn't? Well that would be unfortunate, but it would save them both wasting their time. "What I can promise is diligence, dedication, discipline, and continued honorable conduct in our service will not go unnoticed or unrewarded."

Having said her piece, she waited, tensing slightly as she prepared for whatever response the girl might have.
Jane
High praise though it might have been, Atsuko found herself questioning just how many ronin the woman before her had actually met. The way she phrased it was telling in its own way—dealt with, not known. Her kind were considered little more than occasionally useful nuisances to most samurai. The previous ambassador had at least tried to see passed that stigma, though by madness or worldliness she could not tell. Rather than interrupt, she simply gave a small dip of her head in response to the ambassador's acknowledgement. 

Of course, that brief bit of praise for her honesty was likely the last she would receive. The venom that followed was clear enough on the woman's face even if it hadn't bled through into her words. How much of it was directed towards the late Ide Nakato, and how much towards her, she could not tell. Regardless of intention, the ronin still chafed under the implication. It had not been her place to question the wisdom of her employer. Perhaps if she had been officiated as his yojimbo, she might have insisted on taking his place in the duel. The governor had not seemed all that imposing a warrior, nor was he particularly seasoned. Had it been her who had faced Shosuro Orochi, she was more confident than not that she would have overcome him, if not in the first strike than by the second or the third. 

The then-governor had insisted on representing himself, however, and that must have pushed Ide Nakato to do the same. His pride proved to be his undoing, a lesson that might have been worth committing to memory, were her own pride not at stake in the very office he once inhabited. All her accomplishments in the name of the Unicorn seemed moot to Utaku Kazuko. As if all she had done in the three months since her arrival in the city was await a duel she had been forbidden from partaking in. 

Insult was only added to injury at the pageantry that was her talk of special treatment. It was absolutely laughable that one who stood atop the mountain of privilege would declare that none could be afforded such until they proved themselves worthy of her. A woman who scoffed at the mere idea of ronin, much less those beneath ronin, and so openly mocked her from behind the shield that was her own position. Surely, the next Unicorn to walk through her door would also be accused of being *Peasantry masquerading as nobility*. That was only fair, given that all were equal beneath her gaze, until such a point as they met her expectations. 

Her indignation roiled about inside her lot a pot beginning to spill over. It manifested in small ways, tinging the gaze of her remaining eye and causing her to ball her hand taut. Part of her direly wished the Utaku's claims of equity were true. Would they have lived in a truly just world, where merit dictated what one could get away with rather than dint of birth, then she wouldn't have needed to bite her tongue the way she had been. But they did not live in Utaku Kazuko's allegedly ideal world. So instead, she focused on the parchment that was handed to her.

"I see."

The ronin's words were a little more testy than they likely should have been, especially once she got to reading. It was as good of news as she could have expected. She still maintained her employment with the clan, with her previous privileges in tact and a stipend to boot. There was even room to negotiate greater compensation with the Ide she was bid to serve. It might not have been a letter of legitimization, but it was the kind of work most ronin dreamed of. A lofty, comfortable position with little risk and great benefit. It was a good offer.

That the new ambassador managed to take such a kindly offer and turn it into an insult only further proved its benefits. If Kazuko truly meant what she said, and intended to treat with others as she had with Atsuko? There would be a duel declared sooner rather than later. Best to vacate the position of yojimbo before someone more intimidating than a Scorpion bureaucrat came along. 

"I thank you for your continued patronage," Atsuko bowed her head forward with as much courtesy as could be managed, given her wounded pride, "I am happy to continue providing my services to the Unicorn, for as long as they are still appreciated."

It wasn't the most elegant double meaning she had ever come up with, but it got the point across without being overly rude. That was more than could be said of *Some* Comments that had been made during the meeting.

"Will that be all, Utaku-sama?"

||
William
The bite in Atsuko's words did not go unnoticed. It was unfortunately expected even. Kazuko did not doubt she deserved far more than what she was getting now. But there were standards she held those under her care to, just as she held herself to. Not that the girl would know that.

"We will always appreciate efforts made in service to the clan." She said curtly. There was little else she could say that would ease the ronin's foul temper at this point, and she thought it best not to test the girl further. Let her be hated for today. Some day she might understand. "Ide-san is a good man, and protecting him and his interests is a responsibility I do not give lightly. From all I have gathered, both through official channels and my agent in the field, our patronage of your services was one of the few good things to come out of the winter.

"Tomorrow morning all the samurai under my care are invited to attend breakfast together, after which I will address what assignments each has and what our plans moving forward as a Clan are to be. I expect to see you there. If you have nothing further, you are dismissed." Kazuko bowed respectfully. "However, if there is ever anything you require or wish to speak with me about, whether now or in the future, my office remains open. So long as I am here you are guaranteed an audience directly with me."
Jane
There was more than Atsuko wished to say. But in her time bumping elbows with the highest rungs of society, she learned quickly that it was often all the better to keep them to herself. It certainly explained the propensity for the mighty clan samurai to drink their woes away. If only they kept their swords in their scabbards when they fell deep into their cups—more than one had challenged her mentor and seen them driven out of towns over the matter.

"Of course, Utaku-sama. I will return if anything arises."

With a deeper bow than the one she had given before, the girl turned and offered the translator a shallower bow before spinning back towards the direction she had come from and through the threshold once more. For the final time? Unlikely, but she intended to at least endeavor to make it so. 

||
William
After the ronin left, Kazuko leaned against the table, hand resting on her chin. This would prove an interesting challenge. "I like her. Smart, strong, fiery. A perfect candidate for adoption into the clan. She still needs a bit more work though."

Fuyuko nodded, peering over Kazuko's shoulder at the papers in front of her. Most contained random notes and missives to organize her thoughts as the people she summoned provided her with their information. She would have to compile them into a coherent document later. "As you say, Kazuko-san. Shall I call in our last visitor?"

The last one would prove the most challenging, even more so than her brother. The only name on this list whose loyalties were in question, and who could be a danger to the clan. "Yes, Fuyuko-san. It's time to speak with Moto Kahden."

||
Jesse
Moto Kahden had been summoned to the Ide residence after a long day of idle activity. Simple yet rigorous trainings spread out throughout the day that many would consider excess, an hour of letter scribing with the just good enough skill Kahden had with calligraphy for priority letters, and the hours in between spent meditating, eating or wandering through the streets of Ryoko Owari Toshi. He would have been putting all of his combined efforts into building the task force, but he were eagerly awaiting a letter that had not yet came.

He walked into the office waiting room with no souls in sight, raising his hand up to his ear and rubbing it as he closed his eyes, taking in a deep breath. He made sure to wear the same white kimono with purple Mons he wore to special meetings, despite his ever growing distaste for wearing such type of clothing.

When called upon by Fuyuko, he made his way through to the office of Kazuko, bowing upon greeting her. All the while, his face remaining neutral and lacking any tangible emotion as he entered. `"Greetings, Utaku-sama."` After which, he sat down.
William
Here he was. The wild card. The man who came with Nakato's entourage, who fought side by side his charge against the forces of darkness. Was he ally or enemy? Only time would tell. Time and a debriefing.

"I bid you good day, Moto-san. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life. Any words conveyed by her are my words, and I respectfully ask you to consider them with the same weight." The standard introduction concluded, she would get straight to business. No doubt he was restless being locked away here in Ryoko Owari, and that restlessness would only prove detrimental as time passed by. She nodded curtly at him. "I hear you have acquitted yourself with honor here in an honorless land. No doubt it is a very different place than those you may be used to. Tell me, what do you make of this city?"

||
Jesse
Kahden listened intently, his gaze unwavering and harsh as he stared at Kazuko, listening to Fujiko speak while her hands moved methodically in a rhythm to translate directly. It was a strange ordeal to him to have to pretend that Fujiko's voice was hers, but he made do. Once she finished speaking and asked the question, Kahden stopped and paused. It would appear as if he had not heard the question, his expression unchanged and his body still. After some time of thinking, he straightened his back even further then his previous militaristic seating posture, raising his chin slightly up and opening his airways. 

`"I shall never lie to a superior."` He sharply denoted, `"I hate this city."` He quickly and harshly stated, pausing on the statement for a moment before continuing. `"To witness the ineptitude of the Scorpion brings a distaste to my tongue, but to see our clan bring about change .. I'm unsure how to feel of it."`
He lowered his head slightly, holding a now weaker gaze to Kazuko, `"I fear that in due time, nothing but disorder and chaos will grow. The Scorpion are unlikely to give in without a lengthy fight against us, filled with treachery and deception. Leaving every single person in this city and its surrounding vulnerable to the Jigoku threat."`

He looked up to remeet Kazuko's eyes, his eyebrows furrowing slightly as he expressed a melancholy look. `"I simply wish for peace, so that no innocents come to harm."` He finally stated, maintaining his soldier's posture as if he were standing at attention, fully expecting a kind of backlash. He were understanding if he were to be shouted at, scolded for his way of thinking - But he would never lie to a superior.
William
Kahden was not afraid to speak his mind. Kazuko expected nothing less from the Moto. They were the most straightforward of the families after all. Kazuko would let his words settle in the still silence of the room as she studied him, looking for any sign of insincerity in his words and manners. Seeing none, she gave a tight grin. "Your honesty is most becoming, Moto-san. There is a time and place for flattery, but in my offices I value sincerity. This place is sometimes called the Rotting Scorpion Cesspool for a reason. The Scorpion have not only allowed corruption of body and spirit to pervade this place but also openly insulted and aggrieved the two most powerful armies in the Empire . . . And walk away with little more than a slap on the wrist."

Whenever she spoke of the events over winter, her mood darkened. If it hadn't been for the idiocy of such events she would not be stuck here. Hopefully Kahden would not take her increasing anger as directed toward him. "I cannot let this injustice stand. Yet the recent events also prevent us from simply marching an army in and demanding satisfaction. If we want to claim the city *And* Wish to keep it, we must win the hearts and minds of its people. That is where brave men and women such as yourself come to play."

||
Jesse
He pondered for a moment, thinking hard on what Kazuko had told him. He could easily tell just from her response how strongly she felt of the Unicorns mission in Ryoko Owari Toshi, `"I understand."` He stated while keeping his head slightly lowered, still retaining eye contact. He did not peer through his eyebrows towards her, keeping a consistent respectful demeanour and gaze, `"I admit that I fear for the innocent lives within this city. Human life is nothing less then sacred to me. I need to know that what we are doing is the right thing. That the plan we shall execute, will not lead to the needless deaths of those who did not vow their lives in duty."` He said, showing a clear compassion for human life. It was clearer now that his goal was to protect the human lives of those incapable of defending themselves from Jigoku, and he feared that by fulfilling the Unicorn's mission. `"If the Scorpion are putting the lives of the people of this city at risk of death, at risk of befalling to Jigoku, then I shall never again waive from this path."` He summarised, making his point clear.

To Kahden, politics and its finer elements were hard to understand. And thus, his hardly expressive face cracked. He began to appear unsure and confused, almost worried. All he wished for was guidance from Kazuko as he shuffled slightly in his seat, retaining his straight and orderly posture throughout.
William
The soldier looked to his commander to lead him, unaware she was as lost on this battlefield as he. It was her mission to lead and protect the samurai under her command. But in this arena? Still, if he needed direction, it was her obligation to provide it. "Murders in the Temple Quarter. Foul, tainted beasts stalking the city. I do not need to tell you of the Scorpion's failures, they cry out at us to respond. You have spent your life fighting against the forces of corruption beyond the borders of our Empire. Now I ask that you do the same here."

She maintained her poise and determination, providing herself as the rock for Kahden to anchor himself to. Just as he needed someone to rely upon, she needed those who relied upon her. It was what pushed her, motivated her to fight every day against the weight upon her shoulders. "We must be ready and vigilant. We shall not be reactive to threats against the spiritual health of the city and its people. The Crab know well how to detect such dangers before they become a threat. How have efforts to work alongside them in this regard proceeded?"

||
Jesse
Kahden raised his head now, looking to Kazuko head on. The previous shame of his ignorance having left him as he was reminded of how the Scorpion had done nothing when faced with the spirit threat. He had been holding on to the hope that he had heard incorrectly, or he had not been informed of how the Scorpion reacted. But now that he had heard the truth come from his ambassadors mouth, he knew it to be true. The Scorpion had failed.

`"I have contacted Hida Koyama to arrange a full fledged meeting to discuss the formation of the task force. Unfortunately, I have not heard back from him yet. I have considered attempting contact with other Crab members, but know that I must be patient."` He said with a short bow of his head before returning it to it's previous level after. Kahden highlighted and made clear a flaw that he was working on, aiming to be truthful to Kazuko.
William
"Good. Perhaps he needs a letter from the Ambassador herself to motivate him to assign someone to assist with the task. Or perhaps you should simply show up. You did announce your intentions already, after all." The Crab were notoriously straightforward, and would not be likely to take offense at such a visit. Kazuko would leave her subordinate to use his best judgement in the matter. "You may coordinate with the ronin in our charge as well. Atsuko-san is known by the Ambassador and was directly involved with the efforts that led to the foul creature's death."

That covered all the bases of his mission statement. There was little else she could do at present to help him ease his mind other than give him a sense of purpose. Perhaps that what everyone needed, really. Even her. The brief introspective moment ended and Kazuko found herself back in the moment. "Is there anything else you wish to discuss with me at present?"

||
Jesse
`"I am inclined to make my way into the Crab embassy and meet with Hida-sama face to face. I dislike lengthy communication over parchment.."` He noted, looking down and to the side for a moment before regaining eye contact with Kazuko. `"I will meet with Atsuko-san shortly and visit the ambassador shortly after."` He gave a short bow as he finished his dialogue and laid out the plan that he would execute soon. 

`"I have nothing more to say except that your words have brought me guidance. Thank you, Utaku-sama."` He gave a deeper bow now, one of utmost respect in such a formal setting. Though, he seemed eager to get moving and to get to work as he rose from the bow, still seated as before. He had not yet been dismissed.
William
"Very well. If you have nothing else, you are dismissed. Carry the Four Winds, Moto-san." Kazuko dismissed him with a curt bow followed by a polite but firm gesture toward the office doors. She would not question the man's loyalty today; that was for Inadoma to determine. Still, if he could be believed—and Kazuko had no reason to doubt him—his loyalty was absolute.

||
Jesse
Kahden rose from his seat, bowing to Kazuko with both hands down by his sides. The bow was strict yet quick, like a sudden strike of a blade. `"Fortunes guide you, Utaku-sama"` He spoke before turning around to exit the office.
William
Kazuko waited several long moments after the Moto left, staying stock still and composed. Then, she slowly turned to Fuyuko. "Please close the door."

Fuyuko obliged. The instant she had the privacy, Kazuko slumped into the table. The meetings had taken their toll on the Ambassador. She was tired already, exhausted from the mental games she had to play to balance all the moving parts on her board. It was as if someone had given her a shogi board where each piece was its own board and asked her to play. "Airag. Now."

Two cups were set down as Fuyuko poured them both a tall glass. The two sat in silence for some time, Kazuko recovering and Fuyuko waiting for a moment to speak. Finally that point arrived. "You did well, Kazuko. They all look to you for guidance and you provided it. Well, except for Nori-kun, but you know how he is."

"That's what worries me," Kazuko stared into the milky beverage as if it might hold the answers to her questions. Perhaps if Makoto were here he *Could* Divine her fate in the cloudy liquid. "I'm not this type of leader. Straightforward combat makes sense, it always has. But all of this double meaning and careful procedure to mask your real intent? I don't know if I can handle it. Especially considering . . . "

"Don't worry about that." Fuyuko placed a reassuring hand on her lady's shoulder. "You can make it through. Just be the leader I know you are."

Kazuko smiled. Fuyuko always knew what to say at the right time. A pity she was firmly opposed to the idea of elevation to nobility. She would make a fine diplomat if she only would let herself become one. She couldn't be faulted though, her life was very comfortable and unique for a heimin, free from both the burdens of peasant life and the rigors of samurai responsibilities. "Then let's get to work. We need to plan the visits with Doji Masanari-san, then Shiba Iemon-san."

Fuyuko matched her lady's enthusiasm. "Of course, Kazuko."

```End Scene```