Joan
The day had arrived. After taking as much time as they dared to swiftly prepare, the Unicorns were finally approaching the Mantis. Two samurai, each very different in appearance yet united in their goal, approached the embassy.

"So, Moto-san, have you ever been to the Islands of Spice and Silk?"

And as they neared their destination, one of them tried filling the space with small talk to distract himself.

Temujin, daisho at his side, was clad in a mix of his dark riding tunic and the lighter haori he'd wear together with his kimono. Fashion was not one of his talents, but he knew two things: the kimono was a better choice for traditional groups, and the Mantis were hardly traditional.

He hoped the fusion of appearances would make a good first impression, make his words more palatable. But he was hardly a Crane or a Scorpion, who could declare any number of emotions by the most minute details on their attire.

While part of him was proud to speak for the Clan, he had to suppress his doubt over the fact that there were surely others better-suited to this duty. The scout tightened his grip on the diplomatic pack, containing proof they represented their Clan and a gift ||in a well-sealed waterskin||.

Eventually, they reached the entrance of the Mantis Embassy. Temujin greeted the attendants with a small but polite bow. When he spoke, ease returned to his voice.

"Good day. We are here on behalf of the Unicorn, and we wish to see the ambassador."

*Stay calm, Temujin. You've gone through this with Ide-sama plenty of times.*

||
Justin
Okiku found herself in the embassy, hoping to attend to some personal matters in regards to trade arrangements when the Unicorn entered. Though standing nearby, she did not immediately speak to them, but instead regarded them with a curious brow over her strange dark eyes.

Most of the other clan attendants left the strange, spooky pale woman in the pure white kimono alone as she awaited her turn with a minister - thus allowing her an unfettered observation of the pair as they introduced themselves to the attendants.
Pricilla
Junkō and the rest of her fellow crewmates of the *Shibamaru* Weren't too keen on being servants at the embassy. Ever since Mama Mai got this bizarre promotion, they went from cutthroats and pirates to handmaids and couriers, and it wasn't really too their liking. Sure, they got paid, but they wanted to go fight on the high seas, not..._this._ 

But, they were loyal to Mama-sama, always. So they'd suck it up, and make the best of it. Thus, Junkō was more than pleasant when she went out to the entrance chamber of the embassy, where Karasu (the ronin forced into submission by Mai in the Leatherworker's Quarters) was waiting. 

"An audience with the boss? Yeah, lemme run it by her real quick, honorable Samurai, if I could just get your names..." With that info, she headed off inside to notify Mai. 

The ambassador was actually just finishing with a meeting of sorts, with a very grateful merchant that was glad to know that his bandit problem would be dealt with on behalf of the Mantis. Whoever these river bandits were, they were in for a rude awakening. "Well, that's that," Mai sighed. "Get Karasu and some men together, Cyclops, have them scout the mouth of the river for these thugs. And now that we're done with business, I think I'll go see my daught-"

"Yo, Mama Mai!" 

Mai was not amused, and glared at Junkō when she announced her presence. "We've been over this. Moshi. Sama. In. The. Embassy." 

"Oh, sorry, Boss-er, Moshi-sama. But, there's two Unicorn here to see you."

"Is it Utaku Masanori-sama?" Chiyoko asked. 

"No, it's a Shinjo Temujin and a Moto Shadee. Oh, and I think Yoritomo Okiku-sama is wanting to see you as well, boss." 

"Well, hm." Mai mulled it over, but shrugged her shoulders. "Fine, bring all three of them in. Might be about the bazaar, or another business deal. Better to have another Mantis with negotiation power would be nice." 

And thus, Junkō called upon Yoritomo Okiku, Shinjo Temujin, and Moto Shadee, expressing that the ambassador would see all of them. 

||
Justin
Okiku lifted a brow, curious that she was being summoned with the two strangers. Regardless she gave a nod to the attendent and stepped after them, quiet as she may, towards the chamber beyond.

She paused at the doorway to allow the Unicorn to step in ahead of her, offering them a small bow in greeting as she waited for them to pass.
Joan
Temujin returned any bows offered to him at an appropriate level; if nothing else, the chance to meet new people often interested him. And the less polished these Mantis were, the more interesting he found them. If only because he felt a certain kinship, being a warrior assigned to diplomacy.

He entered with Moto Shadee, content to follow the guidance of the servants while taking notes of the embassy's design and layout. And in true Mantis style, it was a mix of the opulent and the informal.

*Haven't seen furniture like this since the Isles of Spice and Silk.*

"Well, Moto-san," The lean bushi said aside to his dusky-skinned colleague as they entered the premises, "Seems we're one foot in. Let's hope we're not out of our depth."

He chuckled to himself, but stopped.

"Uh. Because of... Well... You know, since they... Never mind."

Temujin grimaced inwardly at his own attempt at 'humour' to lighten the mood; he wasn't averse to playing the fool to break the ice, but that was appalling even by his standards.

||

As they were led in, he noted the other Mantis making way for them with a small bow. Temujin made sure to return it politely, wondering about how this samurai served her ambassador.

Once he was shown in, the stark contrast between the Yoritomo and Moshi-sama stood out to him. Subdued grace on the one hand, voluminous personality on the other. 

He knew of the Mantis' own seafaring ways, and had seen many examples of their mixed heritage. But to see a samurai with her complexion in this city who wasn't a Unicorn was still a small surprise.

*Well. At least I know she's facing samurai with skin like hers. If not darker.*

The Shinjo allowed the servant to introduce the new arrivals, bowing respectfully before the Rubenesque woman. She may not have seemed like one for protocol, but it always paid to show that you made an effort.

"Lady Sun's blessings upon you, Moshi-sama," He began with his head lowered. As Temujin rose again, he drew up his countenance, his expression calm and his eyes focused, adding "Thank you for graciously meeting with us."

Moshi Mai would certainly note that while his posture and manners were correct and his movements practiced, there was a certain fluidity Temujin tried to bind when he wasn't in motion. He moved and carried himself like a scout first, in contrast to Kenza's serene grace.

After any initial greetings the Mantis returned, the scout reached into his diplomatic pack and drew something out, wrapped in rich violet cloth ||which swaddled a sealed waterskin, the airag within sloshing from the movement|| which he would offer thrice.

"We would also like to offer you a humble gift, in honour of this meeting and as thanks for the hospitality you showed our clanmate, Ide-san."

*Humble indeed. But maybe the best from our kitchen's a better offering than the strongest from Khanbulak.*

||
Pricilla
Mai gave a proper bow to the incoming Unicorn, and a more familiar and friendly nod to Yoritomo Okiku, and offered them all a seat. "You Unicorn must either be bored witless in your residency or want to see the burly beauty of the Mantis, for I have had nothing but Shinjo's chosen coming through my halls as of late! Come, sit. Mina! Get our guests tea!" 

Mina, who still had a slight limp from her broken leg from months ago, hurried off to fetch the tea. In the meantime, Chiyoko eyeballed the lot, taking notice of their weaponry and demeanor. Nothing seemed to be of worry, as long as they placed their arms in daisho stands or laid them on their left sides, as was custom. 

Mai refused the gift twice before 'giving in' and taking a good look at the waterskin, and took a moment to sample the contents. "Hm! Airag, is it not? My yojimbo's taken a liking to this odd spirit, but I think I'll keep this one all to myself." She glanced at the ronin that tried not to look at anyone, lest more questions come. 

"Now," Mai said once the tea arrived, "I'm sure you're not here to shower me with gifts and gifts alone. What can the Mantis do for you?"

||
Nancy
*Shadee's response was rather reserved, as she wasn't exactly sure what her duties here would entail. Regardless, she gave Temujin a polite smile at his bad joke. It was an adorable thing to do, so she wouldn't give him a hard time over it. It was like a child attempting humour towards an adult. Poorly communicated, but otherwise just fine.*
*As for Moshi-sama... Well, she was a sight to behold for sure. Was she really a Mantis? What a strange circumstance for her to... Well, to live. It wasn't something impossible, but still rather unlikely in light of how the clans often acted towards Gaijin. Thus, the one-armed Shadee just gave a polite bow in the way of greeting and tried to integrate into the conversation at least a little bit:* "Greetings Moshi-sama. I believe Temujin-san will know more about the details, but I have been requested as a champion. I seek to fulfill this role to the best of my abilities. Unarmed combat is my forte after all." *, she gave a soft smile once more, then relaxed, waiting for the actual goal to be stated by her companion.*
Joan
Temujin was a little more relieved that Shadee at least didn't detest his jest, deliberately terrible but beyond his expectation. In the course of his duties, he only knew she was a martially-inclined Clanmate, and uncertain of whether she was on the wild or dour side of Motos he had come to know.

As Moshi Mai gave the Unicorns an exceptionally gregarious greeting, the Shinjo couldn't help but smile as he set aside his daisho, placing it on the stands. The more curved scimitar still looked a little off, but he'd seen this several times before.

*I was told she was friendly. But this is a whole other level. City of Stories indeed.*

"A treat, to be sure, though airag's also good for sharing, Moshi-sama. Whether with someone with a taste for it," He quipped with a smaller bow, "Or to *See* If someone has a taste for it."

Temujin received the tea with a grateful bow, making sure to address Mina respectfully by name. He did offer to help serve it, though he fully expected to be rebuffed by the heimin. Shadee was quick to establish the point of their visit while he took a small sip of the fragrant tea, accounting for its heat.

"That's right, Moshi-sama," He said, letting go of some of his prior practiced formality, though still speaking respectfully without staring. One corner of his mouth rose in a wry smirk. "And as we've charged to the point, I'll speak like a Unicorn and not a courtier. Never was that good at the whole 'five messages in one sentence, none of them the point' thing anyway."

Temujin set his teacup down. He faced Mai and sat upright, though there was a limber ease in his limbs, compared to the rigidity of the two elder Utaku siblings in the city.

"We're here with a proposal, Moshi-sama. It involves the pleasure barge the Mantis have been preparing."

He looked about the room from Mai to Okiku, as much to keep his gaze moving across the participants as to take notes of the room's layout and the Mantis' peculiarities.

"Would you be open to hosting a centre for martial entertainment on board the vessel with us? A place for warriors wishing to test themselves, crowds gathered to see them, and coin flowing among them. Hosted by you, though we would aid in administering it."

*Little odd speaking of commerce plainly. But it's not really dirty, and it's what we share with the Mantis.*

He paused the merchant's pitch there, having it support Shadee's own statement and giving context for her potential involvement. His gaze fell back upon the statuesque woman to mark his focus on the topic, and his own expression was a mix of curious anticipation as he awaited her response.

*Pace yourself and your details. Don't overdo it, but save it for if she shows interest. The tempo of diplomacy is not unlike a duel, even with a genuinely friendly meeting.*

||
Pricilla
It would be ridiculous to say that Mai hadn't noticed the woman called Moto Shadee only had one arm. Out of politeness and overall compassion, she didn't draw attention to it, or stare at it, either. Despite the missing appendage, the woman was strong-looking, and carried herself like any fighter would. 

But, when Shadee spoke of being a champion and an expert in unarmed combat, it made the shugenja's eyebrow raise. She must be missing something here. 

Luckily, Shinjo Temujin helped to fill in the blanks. "Ah, I see." So, they wanted Moshi Mai to host a fighting arena on the ship, with the Unicorn running the day-to-day. The Mantis already planned on having fights and the like on the ship as it was, so the idea was sound. And indeed, it would bring in some more wealth. But did she want Unicorn on her ship, possibly poking around? 

"An interesting concept," Mai said, rubbing her chin, "But, and don't take it too badly, but what do I need you lot for? And with your wealth, I'm surprised you'd need a venue to host your own." 

||
Joan
Temujin's mind raced in response to Moshi Mai's points, drawing on both the policies of his Clan and his experiences in service. He was too focused to remember to doubt himself.

"Fair questions, Moshi-sama." Temujin said as he set his tea down in front of him. "I'm no Ide no Suio Kenza, but I'll do my best to answer."

The long-haired Unicorn sat upright, calling upon his cultivated composure which saw him through roundabout schemes and heated arguments. He was no Ide, but he *Had* Learned from and served one.

*Profit wasn't the issue she raised. Hold off on that for now.*

"Of course either of our Clans has the knowhow and wealth to do this alone. But why bear the burden by ourselves when we can help each other?"

He leaned forward a little to show intent and deliberation, his head turning to the other samurai in turn. Hopefully the gesture, besides avoiding an impudent stare, subtly involved all present to hint at cooperation.

"Together, this venture has more to work with. We benefit from one of the finest venues in this city, and you benefit from a main attraction without diverting your own fighters or sending for one. We'd also schedule Moto-san's fights; saves you the trouble of having to run them."

He wasn't sure if that would resonate with her; did she *Like* Counting koku and organising schedules, or find them stifling?

"And of course," He added as he leaned back, one hand gesturing to the ambassador, "It would be a partnership that both of us can trust. Ide-san's report gladdened us; we simply wish to take this opportunity to deepen our Clans' friendship. Seize the moment, as it were."

With that, Temujin sat back, dipping his head in a humble bow for her patience.

He knew, of course, that *Trust* And *Friendship* Were often empty terms thrown around to make one's cause look attractive. But he hoped that Moshi Mai would pick up on the sincerity behind his words.

||
Justin
Okiku had remained silent thoughout the exchange. It was not her place to intervene or comment unless it was requested of her. She had her own schemes for the Mantis' new endeavour, though they still had to meet with the Moshi's approval.

She was not a warrior, not in the physical sense anyways, so the combat arena itself had little appeal to her... Beyond the periphery. A slight smile touched her painted lips as ideas began to formulate in her mind. She had begun to view the Unicorn's proposal with more interest.
Nancy
*As for Shadee, well, she also held her tongue. She wasn't terribly skilled at speaking and was hoping that her display during the embassy meeting had at least dispelled doubts about her combat prowess. Overall, she was an expert in her field, with sufficient renown to be considered for a dojo instructor... So, if nothing else, it would not be easy to find somebody to perform her role better than herself.*
*That being said, the Mantis were well connected... They likely had options to that extent. How good these options were, was left to be seen though.*
Pricilla
"I would argue that I don't need the help, but the Unicorn need the venue." Moshi Mai wasn't angry, just negotiating. She _hated_ negotiations, but she could still strike a deal when necessary. "I won't insult Moto-san with noting that I have never heard of her, nor seen her in action. I may so be inclined to spar with her myself, and see what she's made of! But, you had other points, yes?"

Indeed there was more there. Camaderie, friendship, things of that nature. It was curious why they were coming to the lowly Mantis instead of the Crane. Very curious. 

"You're right, I can trust Ide Kenza-san. He's a man that I can respect for his honesty and his extension of friendship. But I can also fear that I've given a cat some fish, and now it and its kittens have come for more." She sipped some tea, and took up her pipe, which she methodically packed with tobacco. "Tell me, good Unicorn, why are you not seeking this from the Crane? Surely they have funds aplenty and venues worth utilizing. I understand establishing friendship, which I will be blunt: I approve of it, wholeheartedly. But I still have to be curious: Why would you come to us, whom your Crane friends despise so much? Or... Could that friendship be less sturdy than I've imagined?"

The look in Mai's eye was of curiosity and enthusiasm. She may just get some news she was hoping to hear. 

||
Joan
The offer to Shadee was interesting. Temujin kept his composure, though inwardly, he couldn't help but think: *And here we are trying to avoid mentioning them. Truly, no plan survives contact with the field.*

Still, he allowed himself a good-natured chuckle at Moshi-sama's analogy; despite or because of the back-and-forth, he found himself liking this ambassador. Though he had to take care not to expose any big news or vulnerabilities. Such gossip spread like wildfire.

*We may be having a rough patch, but careful, Temujin. Don't rock the boat, but test the waters first and oh, by Shinjo's plump derriere, I'm starting to think in sailing metaphors.*

"We *Are* Allied with the children of Doji," He began carefully, "But while we share effort for shared goals, there is room to act on our own. We aren't joined at the hip, after all."

The Shinjo took his cup and paused to take a sip and gather his thoughts. Its fragrance certainly helped to sharpen his mind.

*Could mention their Scorpion 'allies'. She might like the balls on calling her bluff. But it's tricky enough balancing three Clans without tossing in a fourth.*

He set the tea cup down, looking the tanned Moshi in the eye for a moment.

"Besides. You don't give a Doji a tetsubo and tell them to man the Wall."

A half-second was given to let that line sink in. He'd never have said such to a more formal Clan, but he was taking the risk here with this large woman.

"Our honoured allies have many talents. But to host a martial venue in the City of Lies? I think not; they are masterful hosts, but this isn't a Winter Court they can plan down to the serving trays."

*And for the love of the Kami, you dunderhead, DO NOT insinuate that they're more appropriate because they're like the city!*

Finally, he bowed slightly.

"No, for something like this, we feel that would require boldness, adaptability, and a good sense for commerce. And we can think of none better than the Mantis, who can navigate any storm."

||
Nancy
*Shadeee followed the conversation with mild concern... But also a smile adorning her features. The matter of a practise match was definitely one she'd enjoy getting back to, but for now... Well, for now it would be better to just give a sweet confirmation:* "If you'd enjoy that Moshi-sama, I would happily spar with you." *, she gave a gentle bow even as a fierce glint stole itself into her eyes. Combat was something she could thrive and enjoy herself in. She much preferred it to the civil affairs of court.*

*Alas, it seemed as if Shinjo had things well in hand, as he deftly manouvered around the lyrical trip-wires and verbouse landmines. One way or another... Things seemed quite fine, so far. With that, Shadee kept quiet and let the smarter people do the talking.*
Pricilla
A sigh left Moshi Mai, and she took a long draw on her pipe. "Spoken like a true courtier, Shinjo-san," She replied. "Just when I was really starting to like you, too." She exhaled, and still smiled. "Oh well. It's fine, and a proper answer to give. When it comes to gossip, I'm still a pirate, and I love to take it all up, hm!" She wasn't all that miffed about it, but was hoping to get some juicy dirt. But it was fine; she had other ways to get info on the Crane. 

When Shadee made her comment, though, Mai perked right back up. "Oh? A challenge accepted, then?" She sized up Shadee again, nothing but approval on her face. "You, young woman, are free to spar with me when you please. I feel like it would be a right good time for all." She glanced back at Shinjo. "You should thank your friend for peaking my interest, Shinjo-san." 

With all that said, there was still more to entertain. Costs, rules, regulations, how this would work with the Mantis' other plans. "Well, you've given me a proposal, you've flattered my clan, me personally, and offered to fight me. Honestly, I love all of these things, very much." She looked over to Yoritomo Okiku, and nodded at her. "Yoritmo-san, you've been quiet. Let's hear the thoughts of someone that's not as thirsty for a fight as I am, yes? Speak candidly, if you would. Our Unicorn friends aren't afraid of blunt speaking, I'm sure." 

||
Justin
Okiku considered for a moment, having listened to the conversation and interactions between the gathered samurai. She pursed her painted lips when she was addressed.

*"I am intrigued by the notion of sparring matches,"* She said, weighing her words carefully. Her tone was soft, little more than a whisper. *"This concept has piqued my interest — though not the combat display itself, but the effects that could be drawn from such displays of skill and talent, particularly as to the outcomes of said bouts."*

Okiku offers a slight smile. *"However I would not wish to presume too much; nor put our esteemed guests on the spot with the ideas that could be considered... Less than appropriate in formal company."*
Joan
*Goodness.* That's *Speaking like a courtier to her?*

His thoughts raced like Tatsumaki at full gallop.

*Disappointed? Satisfied? Very interesting. She loves open speech. But she could also use that to coax me into saying more. Baiting the hook with the promise of speaking plainly safely, and a prick at my bushi's pride. Moshi-sama drives a hard bargain.*

"I served a great one," He replied with gentle humour, "So my thanks for the compliment, Moshi-sama."

*Gossip, she said. Now's not the time to mention the Scorpion. But keep that word in mind if the moment comes.*

Her positive response to Shadee's challenge was an unexpected development, but he saw the opportunity. In the brief window that she turned to consult the other Mantis, he faced the tall Moto pugilist with a level gaze.

"You're our champion." Temujin said quietly. "I'll trust you to set your terms, and help if you need."

The offer was sincere and understated; Shadee would find his blue eyes held trust in her prowess and her choices.

*No need to insult her by telling her how to do her job, or to avoid grievous injury to either of them.*
||

Temujin faced the Mantis again and nodded at Okiku's careful insights... As well as her politely-worded hint at *Outcomes*. They were making progress.

*Follow up. But not so bluntly as to call it a gambling den.*

"You honour us, Yoritomo-san. And it's true: contests are as much about the watchers as the contestants."

The Unicorn smirked knowingly.

"I've been to enough of them to know how spectators like to *Test their insight*. Though I am sure your pleasure barge's entertainment will be livelier than a court's.

"And if we are all willing," He added, turning between the three ladies, "We would be glad to let you...*Sample the goods*, as it were."

Cheeky phrasing, even if he was certain she'd heard and said bawdier. But a risk to show they were prepared to rise and meet their audacity.

||
Pricilla
Okiku made some valid points. There was a lot more money to be made than simply adding charge for admission, a lot more, indeed. It was something that Mai hadn't considered, since they hadn't intended on incorporating gambling, since there was much more messiness that came with it. But if it was all on fights, there was less fuss to worry about. 

"Excellent point, Yoritomo-san," She praised, "And a lucrative one, at that. While greed is a sin against the Kami, money can fix many problems, mend relationships, and forge new ones, as well. .."

For a moment, she thought, fighting past the self-doubt. 

"If we were to agree," She started, "You would be allowed free admission to the ship as necessary for the bouts, meeting with staff, and directing servants for whatever you may need. These fights will all be unarmed bouts, so no weaponry will be allowed as per the rules of the ship as-is. I will extend trust in your abilities to find and deliver grand fighters to contend, and will provide a few of my own that might be interested, and Moto Shadee will be our first champion of our joint fighting ring. 

"On the side of commodities, food and drink are on us, within reason, of course, as well as rooming if needed. Our servants know the ship best and have strong sea legs, so they will be provided to assist you. No offense against your own, but I've seen a Unicorn on a ship before. Very messy, I'm afraid.

" As for the money... We split gambling and admission proceeds from the fights down the middle, with a venue and administration percentage in the Mantis favor. Normally it would be in the range of 75/25, but since I like you lot and wish to make our friendship bloom, how about 60/40, our favor? You still make a nice sum of money, and all you have to do is show up, fight, and take the money from the masses.

||
Joan
Temujin listened to the terms calmly, though he grimace-smirked inwardly at the mention of Unicorns on boat; that was something he wholeheartedly agreed on.

*The goals were clear enough. Get a presence on the boat, improve our ties, and see if we can make a profit. But do we push for more? Or offer concessions?*

He was, indeed, no merchant or deal broker. But he had experience to go on: matters of security, provisions, and definitions of their involvement. These he knew from serving Ide-sama.

"To be honest, those terms of access seem fair to me as you'll be our hosts, Moshi-sama," Temujin replied agreeably, turning to Shadee and adding "Though if you have any thoughts or suggestions, feel free to voice them, Moto-san. You would be a better judge of your bouts and accommodations."

He was prepared to respond more fully to the terms. But as the one who'd be fighting on their behalf, it was only right that Shadee have an equal say in this.

However, understanding that she was the sort who preferred to speak through actions rather than negotiations, Temujin did proceed and take the lead. He would, however, pause if she had something to add.
||

The Shinjo turned to the ambassador, one hand rubbing his chin in thought. He spoke carefully, but his tempo grew more certain as the terms fell into place.

*The Clan wants a presence. Moshi-sama fears the cat has brought kittens. Adapt to this.*

"Your provisions are most appreciated. Likewise, we will not impose overmuch; whatever bouts we schedule, we will first run by you by messenger, and only proceed with your approval. Right now, it's just Moto-san, but we will work to provide others in due time.

"Should they stay aboard or enter your ship outside the agreed upon times, be it by invitation or injury, we will compensate you for anything used to care for them. And of course, it's your boat, so your word is law; we will respect that."

An open-ended acknowledgement. But it showed respect for their hosts. When considering the profits, though, Temujin slowed to a pause, attempting to mask it with another thoughtful sip of tea.

*Definitely not familiar terrain to me. But it seems Moshi-sama is offering what we would have, if not more; she has the initiative of being generous.*

He set the cup down, his breathing even. He wondered privately if this was a merchant tactic, using the first offer to sweeten the second. But rather than dwell on things he didn't know, he looked between the Mantis with good-natured trust.

*It's a good amount. And it comes from our cooperation. Profits are good; the gesture is better.*

"Then it seems we are of one mind. It's only right that our hosts receive the greater share." 

*I was prepared for lower, but now's not the time for excess humility; that can seem like desperation. She's friendly, but also looking for blood in the water.*

"It will be my pleasure to take you up on that offer, and report your goodwill to our superiors." He then finally smirked openly, adding "And hopefully next time, we'll have more potent airag to gift to you, Moshi-sama."

||
Pricilla
"I'm glad you see things our way." 

Moshi Mai smiled cheerfully, and clapped her hands together. "Well! It would seem we have come to an agreement, at least for now. I will have Yoritomo Okiku-san arrange the paperwork so we may have the terms clear and written. I sense no trickery, and would never do so myself, but it's best to trust, but confirm, you see." 

This was a fine deal, even if the split wasn't what Mai would've wanted. Well, would've wanted from a _stranger._ The Unicorn had come forward and tried to fix things. The Moshi appreciated that, more than one might think. The Scorpion on the other hand... Well, they weren't exactly coming out of the woodwork to regain trust. Hopefully a later mission would fix that. 

For now, though, the Mantis were working on something else. Profits. Security. And slowly but surely funding their ventures. Whoever took the city, there would be plenty of lucrative businesses under Mantis control. That was all that mattered. 

"Be sure to do so," Mai replied with a chuckle, "And in exchange.." She called for a servant, who hurried over swiftly. "Fetch me a bottle of the spiced wine. You know, from the last raid before I arrived." Mai looked back to the two Unicorn, and brushed away any concern the words might've meant. "Don't fret, you two: The only ships the Mantis raid now are Gaijin vessels. And I'll tell you, the Mereneans make an amazing wine. Take a bottle each. A sign of goodwill." 

With that, Mai reached over the table somewhat, hand outstretched. "As your Clan does, shall we shake on it?"

||
Justin
Okiku bowed her head when she mentioned. She gave a simple nod that she understood what was required of her.

*"I will have the paperwork drawn up in short order and sent to all participating parties,"* She said with her soft tone.

She had little else to add to the conversation, at least at the moment, so quieted down once more and allowed the discussion to continue without further interuption.
Joan
Temujin nodded to the two Mantis as the final terms were hashed out, keeping himself from sighing in relief. When the foreign wine was presented, he smiled broadly and received it graciously after the customary two refusals.

"We know a thing or two about exotic tastes, Moshi-sama. We'll be sure to savour these properly."

Finally, Mai reached out in the gesture used by the Unicorns. The scout had certainly heard the Mantis, or at least Moshi-sama, were more open to that sort of thing, but it still surprised him to see it.

*We've got our own goals, of course. But it's good that we're meeting each other halfway. Hopefully.*

Nevertheless, the Shinjo accepted the gesture heartily with a firm grasp and quick shake. Honestly, the captain's grip was stronger than he expected even with her appearance, though he maintained a proper expression. He withdrew after the handshake, bowing deeply where he sat, and raised a cup of tea in an acknowledging toast.

"Our thanks, Moshi-sama. Yoritomo-san. And here's to a most prosperous friendship; it'd be my honour to keep enjoying your excellent hospitality."

With that, the tanned scout would finish up their tea and reception properly, accepting the Mantis' guidance and timing for when it was time to collect their arms and depart. Temujin, his task now on the verge of completion, would offer respectful but friendly conversation, easing up a little more now that the agreement would be put to paper.

Inwardly, he was taking notes. What she asked. What her concerns were. How she spoke. What they would need to provide. Repeating them mentally while they were still fresh.

*A good first step. Let's hope it leads to more.*

||
Nancy
*Shadee kept up with the conversation to the best of her abilities, though with the negotiations being outside her area of expertise all she could really do was provide some semblance of representation of the physical aspect... That being said, she'd been kind of out of the loop up until the end. But what was important was that things had gone over rather uneventfully and successfully.*

*Well and gaijin wine was usually a good thing to have too...*

*With that said, she just followed through and went through the motions alongside Temujin-san... And took her leave in all good form, when the time had come. Best not to flaunt anything too much during these moments. She'd have to keep track of these things properly...*