David
The letter had been received well. Himiko had read over it several times and simply could not think about a reply. Not that she was busy but there was currently no issue that she wished to be solved. Alas not issues for the likes of anyone but herself. So much unlike her normal modest self she decided to be daring and visit the sender. After all if it was not formal for them to speak she would be much more at ease to start with. So after the lion ambassador had made it into the embassy without any form of struggle but with approval she had started to ask around for m him. 

She had not dared to step inside without any form of invitation so she had been patiently waiting outside. Not to mention that Ilu had been with her, as always. The beast had been much more patient than the ambassador was however. 

||
Danny
On the other side of the embassy gate, Yasuki Umeo was in his study, calmly going over some scrolls when a servant entered, bowing deeply. "Yasuki-sama, there is a visitor for you at the gate. She is Kitsu Himiko-sama, the Lion Clan Ambassador, and she's accompanied by her... Umm... Companion, Ilu-sama."

Umeo placed the scroll on the table, curiosity piqued. "Ilu-sama? An unusual name for a companion. Do we know anything else about this Ilu-sama?"

The servant gave a nervous glance at Umeo before speaking, "Well, Yasuki-sama, Ilu-sama... Is a dog. A rather large one, if I may add."

This unexpected detail brought a slight lift to Umeo's right eyebrow. "A dog? Now, that's certainly interesting. Prepare some tea and refreshments. I'll meet them at the gate." Umeo rose from his seat, and took a moment to smooth his hair and adjust his mon on his kimono, making sure his appearance was immaculate before stepping out to greet his guests. Upon opening the gate, the sight that greeted him was truly a marvel. 

The Lion Clan Ambassador, Kitsu Himiko, was indeed a sight to behold. Her wild, fiery hair and imposing figure towered over most others, and the raw energy she projected was truly awe-inspiring. However, what caught Umeo's attention was not just her, but the majestic dog beside her, standing almost as tall as a pony and exuding a sense of calm and discipline that was almost palpable.

"Kitsu Himiko-sama," Umeo bowed respectfully, "What an unexpected surprise! And this must be Ilu-sama, I presume?" He directed his gaze to the large dog, eyes sparkling with respect and admiration. "They certainly are magnificent. I'm honored that you chose to visit me in person." He gestured for the Lion Ambassador and her companion to follow him. "Please, come inside. I've ordered tea and refreshments. We have much to discuss, I imagine."

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David
Himiko had taken her turn bowing down. Much unlike her status as ambassador she had chosen to still wear the outfit of the shrine maiden. After all that was what she first and foremost always had been. Her face was covered up by a veil. It had hidden the deep marks that were left on her skin. Not because she did not wish for the Crab to see her like this, but moreover not to scare the people outside. *"It is an honor finally meeting you in person Yasuki-sama."* The Kitsu stated with a warm voice. 

So when Himiko had taken her turn to bow down it was Ilu's turn. The rather giant dog had bowed down as her tail wagged excitedly. *"As for Ilu, she's beyond happy to meet you. Yet do tell her when her presence and joy is too much. She can settle down any moment."* Himiko elaborated on the giant dog next to her. She had pet Ilu's head several times before being invited in. 

*"Although I do wish to apologize for my unannounced arrival. I wished to discuss matters in person and get to know the writer of the letters."* A smile came from the Kitsu. *"So thank you for the warm welcome."* Himiko said as she had followed him inside to the assigned place for tea. 

||
Danny
A soft chuckle escaped Umeo's lips as he watched Ilu, the majestic beast that was as composed and imposing as it was excited just to be there. "Ilu-sama need not worry for her presence is refreshing. A quiet strength amidst the storm of court life. You must appreciate her discipline. Indeed, whoever was responsible for her training has brought you great honor with their skill."

His gaze then turned back to the ambassador, "And please, there's no need for apologies, Ambassador Kitsu Himiko-sama. Your visit is an honor and it brings a welcomed break to my usual routines. More so, it brings me great pleasure to meet the recipient of my letters." As they walked, Umeo led them through the embassy of the Crab. Floral arrangements in intricate iron vases decorate side tables, both beautiful reminders of the spring blossoms waiting outside and easily repurposed tools should they be needed in a fight. The movement of servants and samurai pursuing their mid-day duties moves with the steady rhythm of military efficiency. 

Upon reaching the tea room, Umeo offered a seat to Kitsu Himiko-sama, ensuring that she was settled comfortably. Umeo then directed one of the servants to ensure that Ilu-sama was comfortable. The servant nodded and swiftly brought out a large, comfortable mat for the large dog to rest upon. As he poured the tea himself, he handled the tea set with practiced grace. The fine china clinked gently against the wooden tray. His movements were slow and deliberate, displaying the controlled calm of a samurai, while his eyes remained focused on the task.

Finally, he poured a cup for himself and took his seat across from her, placing the tea in front of him. The auditor lifted the cup to his lips, the warmth seeping into his hands. "Ambassador Kitsu-sama," He began, setting his cup down and meeting her gaze. "I am very curious about what matters you might wish to discuss. And likewise, I am eager to know more about you and Ilu-sama. My foremost desire in writing to you was to create an opportunity for us to open a dialogue, and with you sitting here speaking to me? I feel like I have already achieved my goal, so this conversation need hold no courtly intrigue." 

The Yasuki's weathered hands wrapped around his teacup, "To be quite fair, you are welcome to speak on any subject that you might wish. After all, I have only just arrived in town and it has been too long since I have heard a Lion weave a tale."

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David
Himiko had settled down comfortably as Ilu was one of the happiest beings in the room with the mat. Himiko and Ilu both had bowed down as a gratitude for this gesture. The ambassador had folded her hands in her lap as she sat there, straight up but seemingly comfortable. It almost made you forget about the fact that she was still a child. A child with sudden responsibilities shoved in her shoes. *" Then our goals align. I wished to see you in person as things on paper, ever so graceful as they may be, never portray the picture that is supposed to fit."* Himiko spoke. 

*"That and I prefer eye to eye conversation."* Himiko admitted. A gentle smile grew upon her face as it hid so many things behind it. *"As for story telling you should perhaps ask my Ikoma-sama clanmates. I am not skillful in that matter at all."* She spoke. The golden hairs fell into her face as she had not brushed them away, instead they had covered her blue eye, making it possible to look him in the eyes without actually cursing him. Alas that was what she had thought. 

*"But for the matters to discuss, I wished to meet you."* She took a moment to take a sip of the warm tea. *"After all an invitation to a conversation is rather curious for me. Not to mention I have only taken the position of ambassador so shortly. "* The lion spoke. *"A simple curiosity I suppose. So please tell us about yourself."*

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Danny
"Well, Ambassador Kitsu-sama," Umeo began, the teacup held in his hands lending warmth to his palms. He paused to take a careful sip, allowing the hot liquid to slip down his throat and fill him with a sense of inner peace. His attention meandered from the ambassador, drifting toward the elegant garden view from the tea room's window. His eyes roamed over the lush greenery, the meticulously sculpted bonsai trees, and the koi gliding in the pond, all enveloped in the soft light of late morning. A sense of tranquility washed over him, and he felt at one with the calm expanse of nature before him.

"I'm a Crab, through and through," He resumed, his voice a steady rhythm that echoed the serene ambiance of the tea room. "I value honor and duty above all else. But more than that, I value people and relationships. I believe that it is our connections with each other that truly define us."

Placing his cup back onto the saucer with delicate precision, Umeo once again turned his attention to his esteemed guest. His fingers were weathered from years of handling trade documents and seal wax, and more years hauling heavy ropes soaked in seawater. "I have spent most of my life serving our clan in many capacities as a merchant patron, navigating the treacherous waters of commerce and politics. Occasionally, I am called upon to lend my perspective to a particularly sticky problem. However, I've also dedicated a good portion of my time to the study of various arts, literature being one of my favorites. I enjoy shogi, but I am terrible at it. I was once married..."

His voice trailed off, a distant look crossing his face as he retreated into a silence that spoke volumes. The servants shuffled quietly in the background, their silent figures an echo to the solemn atmosphere that had descended. One moved forward with an offer to refill their cups, a graceful dance of silk and porcelain, before retreating back into the shadows.

Emerging from his momentary reverie, Umeo leaned back in his seat, fingers lacing together atop his belly. He regarded Himiko with a thoughtful gaze, his eyes holding a glimmer of curiosity and intrigue. "But enough about me," He said, the faintest hint of a smile gracing his features. His eyes made direct contact with Himiko's, an unspoken communication passing between them. If he had an opinion on her appearance, the scarred skin, the kintsugi tattoos, or the unusual eyes, he kept it to himself. After all, this was a man who oversaw Jade trade routes; it would take more than evil eyes to shake him.

"As for why I wished to meet you, I have only just arrived in town on business and may linger here for some time afterward considering the state of affairs in the city. There is definitely a strategic motivation for a new diplomat to reach out to ambassadors to open dialogue and create rapport. Such an effort could make both of our jobs much easier down the road. However, I must admit that simple curiosity does play a large part in choosing you to be one of the first to be contacted. You have stepped into a position of great responsibility at such a young age. I am intrigued to know more about the person behind the title." His voice softened, carrying a genuine interest that was impossible to feign. "Would you mind sharing a bit about your journey so far? I surmise that it was more difficult than it should have been." 

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David
Himiko had listened in awe to the man. When he stopped talking about himself she had to adjust her position because she had been sucked into his stories. He was interesting to say the least, perhaps that had been an understatement. The evil eyes had traced the movements of his servants in the back as she had again admired their silence and the fact that they remained in the shadows so properly. Himiko had taken the offer for a refill as she had bowed down in gratitude. Her damaged hands wrapping around the cup as she took the time to take a sip before it was her turn to speak. 

*"Before I speak of myself, I must compliment you on your storytelling. It is rather intriguing. So please, do not feel like you are speaking too much. It is nice to have a honest conversation so often. Especially when they are sparse."* Himiko spoke. There was some disappointment in her voice about the last sentence. However the joy of hearing him speak overruled it soon enough. She took another sip of the steaming hot tea. She clearly enjoyed it. Her eyes found direct contact with him as it resulted in a smile towards him. 

*"As for me. People often assume that my life has been difficult. As my teacher once said. It is not trouble but a test. I just, often pass through those tests a bit more, roughly."* Himiko had smiled. *"I was orphaned for as long as I can remember. My parents fell in a battle with a ronin. He was sent to take me away, something about the superstition about my eyes."* Himiko had paused however. There was no pain in her voice nor was there to detect any hatred. *"After that I was taken in by my current Kitsu family."* Himiko had now smiled. *"As for my current journey, I am rather young, I often ventured within my school. Soon I was sent here, then I became ambassador to my own surprise."* 

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Danny
Yasuki Umeo listened attentively to Kitsu Himiko's story, a mix of appreciation and empathy reflecting in his eyes. He admired the strength that the young ambassador exhibited so casually discussing what was obviously a heartbreaking tale. She spoke of her trials, not with bitterness, but with the calm acceptance of a seasoned warrior. "Your ability to overcome and adapt to such challenges speaks volumes about your character." Umeo's tone was sincere, his words slow and deliberate. "Your clan is honored to have you as an ambassador." 

The Auditor took a slow sip from his cup. Umeo's eyes again wandered towards the serene garden, an emblem of tranquility that stood in stark contrast to the militaristic ways of the Crab. "Life often presents us with obstacles to test our mettle. Sometimes these tests appear harsher than they ought to be. Yet, we have endured. We adapted and grew, becoming stronger with every challenge we faced." The dark-haired former sailor with the permanent squint stroked his goatee a moment before turning back to face his guest. Umeo's eyes met hers, unafraid of the curse that supposedly lived within her gaze. Her eyes held nothing but the soul of a resilient woman, an indomitable spirit that was a testament to its owner. 

"Your eyes," He began, a cautious pause punctuating his words, "They are quite unique. Pleasantly so." Realizing that he might have overstepped a boundary, Umeo swiftly changed the subject. "Now, Ilu-sama, she is an intriguing companion. How did you two meet? Her discipline and size suggest she's been trained by a competent hand." Umeo inquired, genuinely interested in the story behind the bond between the Lion ambassador and her impressive canine companion.

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David
Himiko had bowed down at all the compliments the crab besides her was gifting. *"Thank you Yasuki-sama. I am flattered."* The kitsu admitted. 

When the dog besides her had heard her name fall, her tail started to go crazy with joy. It had twirled and wagged around like crazy. 

*"Ilu had been a gift from the Kitsu family where I grew up. Especially because my eyes and scarring were considered unfortunate, they decided that I should perhaps owe a balance. Therefore Ilu had walked into my life. Now she's my small fortune. Although I am unaware where Ilu originates or who trained her. "* Himiko spoke. 

*"If I may ask, are you a friend of the animals? Ever rode a horse for instance? Apologies if I am too direct, though my curiosity carries me in most of my conversations."* 

Himiko admitted. Petting the head of the happy dog beside her. 

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Danny
A warm chuckle resonated from deep within his chest as he watched the tail of the massive hound whir in joy, her excitement palpable in the room. The touch of sincerity and genuine warmth in Himiko's words as she referred to her pet as her 'small fortune' drew a soft, approving nod from the seasoned auditor. Umeo smiled warmly, eyes crinkling at the corners, when she asked him about animals and horses. "Ilu-sama indeed appears to be a wonderful companion. And to answer your question, Himiko-san," He began, his dark eyes reflecting a fond memory, "I have had a fair share of interactions with animals, mostly due to my duties as an auditor. However, as a young lad, I spent quite a bit of time at the stables."

Umeo paused, his gaze momentarily distant as if he were traveling back in time. "My father insisted that knowing how to ride was a necessary skill, even for a man destined for trade and diplomacy. My favorite companion was a spirited little monster named Hiro. Though our relationship started with quite a few heated encounters, Sakura and I eventually found common ground." His voice was filled with a nostalgia that spoke of a simpler time, a grin breaking the stern lines of his face. 

"But I shall not be lured into spinning tales about myself again," He continued, returning to the present moment. "Let's focus on the current situation in our city. As a newcomer to our region, what are your thoughts on the state of affairs here?" His tone grew serious again, but his eyes sparkled with interest, keen to hear the young ambassador's perspective. Umeo knew the value of fresh eyes, and their potential to provide insights that may be overlooked by someone too familiar with the situation.

As they conversed, he made a mental note of Himiko's approach and demeanor. She had an easy way with conversation, a respectable quality for an ambassador. Her honest curiosity was a breath of fresh air amidst the usual political machinations. It was becoming clear to the Crab why she had been chosen for such a position at her young age.

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David
Himiko had listened to his stories in awe. However they were cut off soon enough, which seemed to visibly pained her as she would've listened to them for days. Then a more seriousness struck and she realized it right away. She however had not changed stature or tone as she only gave a polite smile. Her hands were folded on her lap and the excitement that Ilu bore slightly vanished. 

*"It is a mess."* Himiko directly stated. 

*"But perhaps chaos has been good for every relationship and a test of stability. After all, all clans seem desperate to quickly take change in their own hands for the matter of their perspective of good."* The girl claimed. 

*"But what perspective is the correct one. Do we want good for the people and rokugan, or do we wish praise from the imperials?"* Himiko seemed comfortable enough to state this to this friendly crab. 

*"But how about you? You must have more knowledge of the times before me, that is an important perspective as well."* 

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Danny
Umeo listened to the young ambassador's insightful words, nodding his head in agreement. "Chaos is indeed an apt word, Kitsu-sama." He paused, considering her questions with a thoughtful expression. "What's correct for one, may not be so for another. The crux of the matter often lies in understanding the relative interpretation of 'good'. As an auditor, I have learned that balance is the key. Balancing the needs and well-being of the people with the laws of the land and respect for the Imperial throne." He said, his voice steady and reflective.

His dark eyes moved towards the serene garden once more, a symbol of tranquility amidst the political turmoil they were discussing. "However, to your point," He continued, turning back to her, "It is essential to remember our history while we tread the path to the future. Those who forget the past are often doomed to repeat its mistakes." His attention returned to the young woman, a spark of warmth growing behind his usually stern eyes. "You are wise beyond your years, Himiko-san. A quality that serves well in your role as an ambassador. As for your curiosity, it is commendable and will surely aid in your journey. After all, a questioning mind is the first step towards gaining knowledge."

The mention of his past brought a brief, reminiscent smile to his rugged face. "Indeed, I have lived through various tides of change, each leaving its unique mark on Rokugan. Yet, one thing I have observed is that no matter the turbulence... Our core values, traditions, the respect for the Kami and Fortunes? They have all stood unwavering." He paused, taking a sip from his cup, the bitter-sweet flavor of the tea a perfect metaphor for their discussion.

"As for the current times? They are challenging, no doubt. But I am optimistic. I believe in the strength of our clans and our people. 
 With promising leaders popping up like spring flowers, we are sure to find our way through this storm." His words were deliberate and his tone reassuring. He hoped to instill in her the same optimism he held, the belief that they could indeed find a balance amidst the chaos.

As measured as he usually was in his diplomatic affairs, his expression remained open and inviting with Himiko. It was still early enough in the day that his pain was still managed. The Crab diplomat wanted to ensure that this exchange was more than a formal discussion, but rather an exchange of ideas and perspectives. He was truly interested in understanding Himiko's view and experiences - a unique perspective from a young and energetic leader. His posture conveyed his willingness to listen, his eyes conveyed the sincerity of his words, and his subtly outstretched hand conveyed his desire to pet the dog.

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David
Himiko had listened in awe. Once more the manner of speaking this man owed intrigued her beyond. Wishing for it to never end as she would lose herself in the words. Yet she had agreed with the words he spoke. 

*"What is life but a challenge."* She had answered. A brief smile grew on her face as her keen eye had seen the longing to pet the dog. After all she had it too. So a small gesture with her hand towards Ilu and the dog almost went charging to the crab. One more gesture and the dog calmed down. Laying down beside Umeo with a loud thud, looking at him with begging eyes for pats. 

Himiko then once more had looked upon the man in front of her. *"And balance is what we should bring. A strong balance, not a fragile one. The one that ruled here long before my time. We need a foundation. We need unity and trust. And that I find hard to seek out, as it feels like everybody is ready to stab and strike when they consider the moment ready."* Himiko had spoken about her paranoia of the days. She felt relief. However it had clearly saddened or well, disappointed her. She took a sip from her almost empty cup and set it down again. 

*"Therefore I wish to find the balance. I wish for us all to be pillars that carry a thriving nation. But that seems hard to realize."* 

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Danny
"I understand, Kitsu Himiko-sama," Umeo replied, feeling the weight of her words and the silence stretching between them. His serious demeanor softened. His hand moved of its own accord, the merchant's fingers instinctively tracing old patterns learned from childhood pets. The Auditor's smile broadened a little as he let out a slow breath, "Sometimes, the efforts of diplomats obscure our own purposes. Balance can seem like a trick of the Air. The idea of 'good' often becomes entangled in personal and political interests."


Drawing from the depth of his experience, he continued, "Governance is a delicate dance between maintaining order and pushing for change. A fragile peace is no better than apparent chaos - it festers unseen, an invisible infection robbing the Empire of its strength." He paused, thoughtful. "You talk of unity and trust. They are indeed the bedrock of a thriving empire, yet the most elusive and the easiest to fracture. Unity isn't about universal agreement... It's about shared purpose. Trust is built over time and founded on consistent integrity. These are the things that we pursue amidst this turmoil."

One of the servants refilled the Ambassador's cup. Moving with disciplined grace, they faded into the background as easily as they appeared.

Umeo's hand still idly petting Ilu, he leaned back in his seat with a small smile, "The mightiest towers start with a single stone. Patience and determination lay the foundation. Fostering understanding and building alliances- that's the path." He allowed a small smile to return to his lips, "It may seem hard to realize, but remember, the tallest towers begin with a single stone. We must have the patience and determination to lay one stone at a time, fostering understanding and building alliances as we go along. The Crab and Phoenix Clans have weathered many storms, and together, I am sure we will be able to face this one too."

The Crab diplomat hoped his words provided some comfort. His tone was gentle as he concluded, "As long as there are still people like you? People seeking balance, seeking unity? As long as they continue being born... There will still be hope."

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David
*"I am glad you agree over the definition of Unity. A shared purpose. A goal that puts indifferences aside, only if it will remain temporary."* The lion smiled. Bowing down at the servant filling up her cup. Then listening to Umeo speak once more. Her scarred face visibly intrigued by the words he spoke. 

Ilu was enjoying his presence, clearly as she remained by his side. This made Himiko smirk a bit. 

*"As for the stone you speak of. I- well we. Wish to be the first one. I might sound more like a phoenix now when I say that I feel unnecessary blood might be spilled."* Himiko did not sound like a lion like now. Not that she was raised as one. She picked up the cup and took a sip of the steaming hot tea. Then settling it down when she realized she accidentally burned her tongue. 

*"Thank you for the compliment. It truly honors me Yasuki-sama."* Himiko was humbled by the wisdom of this man. He was charming and friendly. A honest conversation since ages as it had relieved some of her stress. 

*"I wish to thank you for letting me speak my mind so freely. Taking the time to understand my perspective and at least not visibly judging me for it."* The Kitsu admitted. A honest and warm smile radiated from her. It shifted to a more neutral yet concerned look. 

*"But only one person can not be the change. It can start one. But it will never finish it alone. So I will come straight to my point. In my humble self. I wish to ask for your wisdom and trust. I understand that trust will not come from one conversation and that it is much like a tower built brick by brick. But I wish to lay the first brick down with you."* The lion spoke, rather inspired and indeed in a serious voice. Even Ilu seemed serious after she understood what her Master said. If she ever did. Perhaps the emotion behind it. 

The puppy eyes of the beast glanced at Umeo as it was curious for his response. 

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Danny
Yasuki Umeo continued his soft stroking of Ilu's fur, his hand moving in a slow and rhythmic fashion that contrasted with the sudden gravity of the conversation. His dark eyes were thoughtful as he took in Himiko's words, his expression one of quiet contemplation. "The straight path is often the best, Himiko-sama," He began, his voice steady and even. "And I must admit, I am rather impressed by your honesty and courage. To seek trust is a delicate and, oftentimes, daunting pursuit."

He paused, taking a careful sip from his tea before setting the cup back onto the table.

"You are right in saying that trust is a tower built one brick at a time... And I am more than willing to lay that first brick with you, Ambassador Kitsu Himiko-sama. But remember that it is not just our trust that will fortify this tower. It will be built from our actions, shared purpose, and shared integrity," Umeo looked down at Ilu as he continued. "With that said, you have my word, Kitsu Himiko-sama. You have my wisdom and trust to the extent that I am able. Let this be the first brick of many more to come."

Umeo offered the dog a warm smile before turning his attention back to the young Lion ambassador. His eyes held a newfound respect for her. Here was a young woman who dared to step into the arena of diplomacy, bearing the burden of an ambassador, and yet, she navigated it all with honesty and conviction.

"Shall we toast to the beginning of a new friendship, Ambassador?" He asked, picking up his teacup and raising it slightly towards her in a symbolic gesture. The light from the nearby window glinted off the surface of the porcelain, creating a small rainbow of colors in the peaceful atmosphere of the tea room.
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David
Himiko was only relieved when she found out the crab was willing to cooperate on the same purpose. She had not shown however as all she did was sigh every so silently. The emotion on her face had not changed. It remained a smile, a polite one. She grasped her hand around the cup as she made the same gesture as Umeo had. 

*" To our first brick. For many to come as we will serve as a foundation."* The ambassador glanced over to Ilu who was living her best life. The gold and blue eyes were revealing her joy. Not on purpose but good enough to show. 

*'To a new friendship. May it last a lifetime and beyond Yasuki-sama!"* The ambassador cheered. Ilu sprung to life and wagged her tail. Clearly wanting to cheer along with them the beast started to howl whilst wagging her tail. This only made Himiko chuckle. 

*"My apologies for Ilu."* The ambassador stated. 

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Danny
"Apologies are unnecessary, Himiko-sama. I believe Ilu-san has offered the most heartening toast," Umeo chuckled, looking at the elated Ilu. He joined in the laughter, his typically stern features softening. This was an aspect of diplomacy that Umeo appreciated: the brief interludes of shared mirth and camaraderie amidst serious discussions. As he continued stroking Ilu's fur, a subtle, almost imperceptible change came over Yasuki Umeo. The stern, meticulous auditor gave way to a thoughtful, more personal aspect of the man. It was a transformation that occurred subtly, marked only by the softening of his gaze and the gentle ease in his manner.

He lifted his teacup to his lips, his gaze holding a newfound warmth as he nodded at Himiko, "To a lifetime and beyond, Ambassador Kitsu Himiko-sama. May the Fortunes guide us on this intricate path." Umeo took a sip before setting the cup gently on the table. Looking down at the still expectantly wagging Ilu, Umeo extended his hand, offering her one last affectionate pat. "And now, if you will excuse me, Ambassador. I believe it's time for Ilu-san and me to end our little teatime engagement. Duty calls, as it always does."

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