Earl
Today was going to be an interesting day for Shinjo Temujin. Today, he was meeting with Ide Takuma, one of the Clan's main diplomats in this city.

Walking down the Residence's halls, the scout reflected that he knew of him among their samurai, and saw him on occasion, but their very different duties meant they seldom had reason or opportunity to meet.

One area they shared, though: Diplomacy to the Mantis. With things progressing more smoothly than ever, Temujin had an excuse to meet and thank him for his own efforts on that front, and a rare lull between duties allowed it.

The pretence, of course, was to thank him for his work with the Mantis and update him on how they were getting their investment in their fighting champion back on track. But he had to admit to some nostalgia here; the scout was partly raised by the Ide, after all. To him, castle courtesies were as natural as open plains.

Eventually, Temujin entered the Residence's refurbished reception room after a *Heimin*'s announcement. With the Crane's help, it now more smoothly blended Unicorn and Rokugani aesthetics. Something soothing to the traditional mind, yet still proudly, distinctly Unicorn.

It reflected his attire, in fact: an upper purple garment with white edges matching a kimono, contrasted against the brown foreign-looking pants the Unicorn sometimes wore for easier movement and riding. His hair was tied neatly into a topknot, and his blue eyes were calm yet observant.

"Good day, Ide-sama." Temujin greeted with a relaxed manner as he bowed deeply and took a position across from the diplomat when appropriate. "Thank you for seeing me this day. I hope your recent journeys through this city have been pleasing experiences."

Takuma, as a courtier, would probably notice: While their Clan enjoyed more forthright, direct courtesies, this Shinjo's small talk and manners were fairly polished. ||Etiquette 4||

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Melba
"Greetings, Shinjo-sama," Takuma replied, returning the polite honorific, but with the hopes that the two could soon dispense with such formal language. To ease the mood, he'd had several dishes and plenty of drink prepared for the afternoon that now rested on the low table, and since his guest was a fellow Unicorn, the Ide was not reserved about including meats and spices that must otherwise be avoided when hosting such an engagement. Similarly, he'd adorned himself in the foreign *Deel* For which his family was known, rather than the traditional Rokugani clothing he usually opted for.

"This was an opportune time for me, and indeed I've found much to appreciate since arriving here." Takuma was no better at lying than his peers, and so had trained himself to speak in half-truths when necessary. Certainly, there were many elements in Ryokō Owari of which he approved, but the bad vastly outweighed the good. He hoped Temujin would pick up on the word he used for *Appreciate*, which when written could be read alternatively as *Tolerate*. 
 "Even so, I'm confident that our continued presence here will improve the quality of life here even further—for all castes, to be sure."

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Earl
The scout did pick up on the meaning of his words. One corner of his mouth curled into a knowing smirk, paired with the vigilance he usually displayed.

"Indeed," He replied with a nod, "And we have the city's Scorpion Governors to thank for that. It's truly a monument to their *'stewardship'*."

A verbal barb he had picked up over the years, but the Shinjo just couldn't truly hide the wry judgement in his words.


Of course, verbal subterfuge and cunning had their place, but were not first in most Unicorns' mind. Sensing the forthrightness in Takuma's ideals, the Shinjo reciprocated, dry wit shifting into honesty.

"I've had the chance to see how the *Heimin* Fared under Scorpion rule. This city could certainly use more Unicorn Compassion, from the streets to the farmlands."

While he stopped short of verbalising his distaste for their rivals, his intent was displayed more openly in turn, coloured by awareness from what he had seen.

And with the opening greetings exchanged and their seats taken, Temujin finally looked over the prepared meal. And indeed, it was a pleasing mix of their Clan's preferences and conventional fare.

"Ahh, an excellent selection, Ide-sama. It's rare to be able to indulge in meat and spices in this city. Thank you for this!"

The formal address contrasted against his ready friendliness as he followed Takuma's lead in sharing their meal. Though he spoke and sat properly, the lithe outrider certainly seemed like he might slip into a mood reserved for a sake house! ||Unorthodox!||

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Melba
Takuma nodded as Temujin expressed his enthusiasm for the prepared food and drink. "Your satisfaction does me honor! Please, feel free to indulge, and don't let our conversation get in the way. You are among friends here, which of course is not the case everywhere in this city." 

Takuma allowed a beat to pass before speaking again. "Speaking of which, I'm sure you've heard by now that our alliance with the Mantis is ready to be formalized. The only barrier to the agreement was Utaku Kazuko's concern that it could negatively affect our relationship with the Crane, a concern that I shared. I have since confirmed, in a conversation with Asahina Tadayasu, that the Crane will harbor no ill feelings in this regard. The only thing missing is their agreement to ally with the Mantis themselves. 

"Tadayasu explained that such a coalition could influence other clans to join against us; worse, elements within the Scorpion or even the Otomo could likely work to interfere. He did promise that his clan would reexamine the idea during Winter Court."
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Earl
"I've been blessed to meet various friends here," The Shinjo admitted. "But indeed, this whole city is hardly friendly."

With that dry observation, he began filling his plate with a well-rounded meal, from meat and rice to vegetables and spices. On the plus side, the Ide's invitation gave him an invitation to be less formal in his address.

His heart lifted to hear Takuma. He read the reports and saw the fruits of the Ide's efforts, but to hear them was a delight, especially given his proximity to their allies.

*As well as, ah, personal reasons.*

"You have my thanks, Ide-san. This is a great step forward for us and the Mantis." Temujin said with sincere admiration. "And ensuring peace with the Crane in this is also a most impressive feat!"

The sunburnt scout began lightly spicing his meat and rice, speaking as he finished spreading the tongue-tickling condiments.

"I have spent some time with the Crane as well, though not as much as you. I certainly do see where they're coming from; a group too large draws all eyes towards it, especially if they threaten to bring great change."

After lightly spicing the meat, he took a bite. The rich, savoury flavour spread out, and Temujin smiled in appreciation.

"Still, our Clan is the living embodiment of change, isn't it?"

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Melba
Indeed, Takuma reflected, the Unicorn do embody change. "However, two centuries have proven to be too short a time for the other clans to recognize us as equals. To present a face that is Rokugani, without sacrificing the foreign traits that give our clan its strength; this is the struggle of every Unicorn samurai, and certainly every Ide." 

He took a bite of his own well-seasoned steak before adding, "Certainly there are many changes we can bring, both to this city and beyond, that would be a clear improvement over current affairs. Yet it must be done with care, lest the other clans see us as meddlesome. And I think the Crane are right in refusing to change their relationship with the Mantis so soon after we do so."

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Earl
Temujin nodded knowingly as Takuma spoke on the Clan's situation, both here and in Rokugan at large. Some Unicorns were very content to simply be themselves. But those who worked to preserve their place in the Empire knew that even to this day, they were still seen as strangers in their own home.

*The Ide most of all.*

"Indeed, Ide-san. It's always wise to pace yourself on a long journey." Temujin replied as he mixed his dishes together. "And from the gradual changes, new things can grow. As fast as nature intended, of course."

It was a view which very much matched his family's, a scout's love for nature and the journey. But there was also a hint of something else there. Patient, grounded. And to Takuma, very clear in its familiarity.

"And I must admit, hearing your wisdom reminds me of my time in Eijitsu province. I grew up seeing how the Ide build bridges, so it's a fond reminder for me."

Sentimental? Most definitely. But once more like his family, past the practiced manners, Temujin seemed comfortable wearing his heart on his sleeve.

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Melba
Ide Takuma was himself the sentimental sort, very much so. Before joining the family of his blood heritage, his early mentorship under Yasuki Taka had given Takuma the first sense of structure and purpose in his life, and it had taken years for him to shrug off the man's vile teachings, and accomplishing as much without even the liberty of confiding in anyone else about them spoke of preternatural resolve, proof that the Earth Dragon favored him. 

Though burdened in this way, the courtier nevertheless relished any opportunity to speak on matters of the past, and to hear others' stories in turn. He therefore leaned forward with intent interest in Shinjo Temujin's mention of his past relationship with the Ide.

"I would hear more of this, Shinjo-sama. Please, continue."

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Earl
He didn't mind Takuma's respectful address, even if he viewed himself in a humble light. It was a flattering gesture.

"Of course, Ide-san." Temujin said with a nod. "I was raised and trained as a Shinjo, but my mother was of the Ide. And through her, I ended up being warded by Ide Yesugei, one of our envoys to the other Clans, and a distant relative."

Ide Yesugei. Not necessarily a prominent name known through all the Clan. But for those of a more courtly bent, he might be recognised for travelling to the other Clans (usually in a minor capacity), while opening his home to wards from both within the Unicorn and from other families. A good man, who did good steady work, though seldom at the highest levels.


"He welcomed me into his home for those brief years, and I grew to appreciate what the Ide do," He elaborated, briefly sipping at his tea. "Reaching out in friendship while balancing our traditions with the Empire's ways. Later, he would become my lord, and I served him on his travels."

The Shinjo set down the cup with fond nostalgia written plainly in his face.

"It's by no means an easy path. So those who walk upon it are more than worthy of respect."

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Melba
"I appreciate you saying so, Shinjo-san." Takuma's discipline made him aware of Temujin's approval of the -sama honorific; just the same, he now reverted to -san now that the two had become better acquainted. "Though decorum demands Imperial patriotism, the most clever of samurai recognize the value of outside wisdom. I believe *On* Hides far more support for the Unicorn cause than we are like to presume."

He mimicked the Shinjo by taking a careful sip of his own tea, letting the moment pass before segueing into another topic.

"I have heard the name of Ide Yesugei, certainly, although I have never met the man myself. He sounds like someone who has grown to appreciate the balance, and the more one travels across this great Empire, the more one recognizes the strength of tradition. It's no accident that Rokugan has survived through times of peril. It owes its continuation to the structure of law and culture, structure that our Crane friends maintain for the betterment of all."

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Earl
The Shinjo beamed proudly as he heard Takuma's assessment, nodding in agreement while chewing on a mouthful of meat with rice. It seemed clear that Temujin honoured his lord as more than his master, but also as one of the people who raised him.

And there was the optimistic hope that there was more positivity than could be obviously displayed. A hope that the Ide tended to carry with them. Something Temujin often thought himself... Though also doubted was common. He was, after all, an unorthodox thinker.

Swallowing his mouthful of meat, he wiped his lips and spoke.

"Indeed, Ide-san. Just as our Clan draws strength and purpose from the traditions we formed on our journey, so do the other Clans and the Empire."

A brief pause heralded a wry smile.

"Though I will admit, as a youth, it took me quite awhile to take those words to heart. Still trying to, in fact."

Smoothly moving his hands at the table, Temujin seasoned his slice of steak while speaking.

"I learned this through seeing the other Clans, and learning under Ide-sama. But where have your travels taken you, Ide-san?"

It related to the topic of their values, but also reflected genuine curiosity.

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Melba
"It's unlikely you've heard, but due to tragic circumstances when I was born, I came to be fostered by Yasuki Taka, before he became his family's daimyō. He learned of my heritage by way of an oracle, but kept me to raise as his own for a time, and I chose the name Takuma to honor him for his *Kindness*." The last word caught on the Ide's lips, but he otherwise betrayed none of the bitterness with which he now regarded the Yasuki daimyō. ||Etiquette 3, but Takuma was a poor liar.||

"I recall that the politics of the day made it impossible for him to turn me over to my Ide kin until my sixth birthday. In that short time, he educated me in the ways of the Carp, and I still incorporate some of that school's shrewdness in my own philosophy. All that is to say that I got to see the Wall many a time in my youth. A magnificent structure that stands testament to man's ingenuity."

Ide Takuma took a sip of tea to wet his tongue before continuing.

"Many years later, I had the privilege of engaging in trade as far north as Medinaat al-Salaam. In all of my travels, there is no one place I would more like to revisit someday. It is called the City of Peace for good reason: cultures from all over the world come to the city to ply their wares. It's a sight so alien to Rokugani philosophy that I rarely speak of it except with other Unicorn."

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Earl
He wasn't deeply acquainted with every Clanmate's circumstances, merely when they arrived, their general demeanour, and their skills. Though he certainly welcomed any deepening of bonds like this.

Yasuki Taka, though, that was a name even *He* Had heard of. He didn't know everything the Yasuki daimyo got up to, but boldness and controversy followed the whispers surrounding him in equal measure.


*So, a mentor. But there's a difference compared to how I speak of Ide-sama.*

"Adapting to your surroundings and turning them to strength is very much in the spirit of the Ide." Temujin complimented encouragingly. "And the Clan is richer still with your experiences."

His expression softened as he considered the City of Peace, one of the many shining jewels the Unicorn found beyond Rokugan. Its name was quite a contrast to where they were now in the City of Lies. And even with his experience in city life, there was still sincere hope and admiration for that ideal.

"To see harmony at work nourishes the soul; what I saw in Ide-sama's home definitely left an impact on me."

He stirred the slices of beef with the rice and sauce as he took a sip of tea to address some dryness.

"It certainly makes me wonder: Would it be alien because it's foreign? Or because it's peaceful?" The Shinjo mused. A wry smile graced his lips as he added "Though from what I've seen within Rokugan, it might very well be both reasons."

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Melba
"I find myself regretting that my paths have never crossed paths with Yesugei's. My hope is that the occasion might soon arise that I might correct this. He seems a wise man, and I might learn something from him that would benefit my own work."

Takuma took a bite of his own beef, chewing it slowly as he considered Temujin's question. He then finished his cup of tea to clear his throat.

"As to my meaning, the climate in Medinaat al-Salaam is alien because of the free exchange of ideas between cultures. There exists a deep-seated tradition in Rokugan that its ways would become corroded were the Empire to welcome foreign customs. Now, again, I believe there are few who genuinely feel this way. And obviously every Unicorn will recognizes there is a problem such a belief. But outside of our clan, such free-thinkers would be sure to make a show of disdain when learning of the way in which things are conducted in the Caliphate.

"Yet indeed there may be something to be said for the peace itself, as well. Is it *Alien*? Even though prosperity favors amity over conflict, there is no denying our place as samurai. We are the *Warrior caste*, and there are always battles to be fought. If not on the open field, then behind closed doors. Take the Phoenix Clan, for example. Staunch pacifists, even more than the Ide, who would nevertheless just as soon see our clan destroyed. For samurai, true peace is a mere fable. So," Takuma allowed himself a wry smile, "On some level my work will always be futile, and I ought to savor my successes when they occur."

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Earl
Temujin listened attentively, chewed his food thoughtfully while Takuma spoke. His mind tried to imagine all of this, putting faces to the Empire's views.

"Strange to think of all those balances. Change can be good, yet too much all at once is harmful. Traditions can restrain change, yet strengthen the Empire, and even prevent too much all at once," He mused in response. "I suppose in the end, it depends on what each of us truly values."

As he filled Takuma's cup anew, his words picked up the pace.

"Strangely enough, I had a similar discussion awhile back with Moshi Fujiko-sama, who runs the Jewelled Flower Clinic. She adheres deeply to pacifism, despite the realities of both our caste and this world."

He spoke with clarity and purpose. The Shinjo wasn't just recalling information, but speaking of something he had given a fair bit of thought.

"We may never achieve an eternal peace among the Clans. Even if we did, there is the fear that it would dull our edge, and we'd be unable to defend what we love."

Setting the pot down and returning to his seat, he met Takuma's gaze with his own quiet determination.

"But it's always worthwhile to strive for it, and bring that bit of healing into the world. And I always thought that our calling was not just to die, but to give our lives for what we protect. Both the peace, and those who live under it."

A view not uncommon among both their families: The Ide's devotion to peace, and the Shinjo's belief those blessed with power had the duty to aid those without.

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Melba
"I'm glad you think so Shinjo-san."

Takuma received the refilled cup and inclined his head graciously. He did not drink yet, but held it in hand, a thought suddenly occurring to him.

"Lately, I've been pondering our purpose here in Ryokō Owari, and I realize that our efforts to improve conditions for the lower castes—while fostering camaderie between the Great Clans—cut to the core of who we are as Unicorn. And because what you say is true, if a samurai's destiny is to die in service to his lord, then that lord's responsibility is to ensure that the death has a positive meaning. 

"That's where caution is due. For while there is no shame in loss and death when fighting for a just cause, there is shame in victory toward an unjust one. When a cruel or foolish order comes down, it seems we Unicorn are alone in the belief that there is honorable recourse other than seppuku. Just as we recognize the value of the lower castes, we're able to take the wisdom of those under our charge into account when making choices that will shape the future of this city, our clan, and the Empire as a whole."

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Earl
Temujin nodded slowly as he took in Takuma's wisdom. It felt good to know he wasn't the only one who thought like this; views he had to keep silent with others were more welcome with his own Clan. Though sometimes, he wondered whether he was *Too* Liberal for even his Clan.

"Perhaps we aren't as alone as we think. 
As you say, *On* Hides what they can't express. And even the most traditional samurai, guided wholly by Bushido, has the same choices to make as we do. And for some whose hearts beat for justice, seeing our ways could be encouraging, even if they can't say so."

He shrugged as he raised his cup to his lips, taking a brief sip. Khulan might have lectured him to fully savour it, but conversation was what he enjoyed!

"Or so I hope. I also know that we all have our own opinions on which tenet matters most, or what a just cause truly is. We fight for the city's people... But I imagine the Scorpion would say they fight for its *Order*."

The scout's expression shifted, scrunching like he caught wind of a bad odour.

"Not an order I'd ever tolerate, where the *Heimin* Groan under its 'peace'. But we can at least understand what we see before us."

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Melba
"Not only can we understand what we see, we can name it. Even if we can only put it to words behind stony walls like these." He rapped a hand against the wall to emphasize his point.

"Here we can speak bluntly. It is not good that our intentions in the *City of Lies* Of all places have put us at odds with the Scorpion Clan. Many an honorable family has been brought to ruin by the Clan of Secrets. For all of our culture's grandeur I have spoken of, it is sadly one in which perception outweighs the truth, so that deception ever trumps honesty. The samurai's word is heeded without the burden of proof, even when his reputation befits a mongrel.

"The Scorpion are a weed rooted deep in the heart of our glorious Empire, and though many have tried to pry that weed loose, treachery and blackmail have kept it firmly entrenched. I would never go so far as to say the Hantei-no-Kami was wrong to raise up the children of Bayushi. But the ages have worn away whatever purpose they may have served the Emperor's descendants."

At long last, Takuma took a deep swallow from his tea, finding its heat dulled the furor his own words had stirred up in him, even while it briefly blurred his spectacles.

"We have the moral high ground in this affair. But I lack the strategic mind to process how we might turn that fact to our advantage."

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Earl
For the most part, he agreed with Takuma's impassioned description of the city's affairs and its primary culprits. He saw how corruption was endemic, and it was the *Heimin* Who suffered under it. Even if the Scorpions weren't the ones to plant that persistent weed, they certainly did nothing to remove it.

Though there was also the part of him that understood: there were Bayushi Kaoris, but also Bayushi Yutos.

Lifting another small slice of meat with rice, the Shinjo cooled it with a short blow and consumed it.

"The Scorpions believe in Duty above all else," He mused. "Loyalty to the Empire. I understand the theory: they dirty their hands, so ours can stay clean."

Idling with his chopsticks, he tapped them thoughtfully against his bowl with a light *Tink* Of wood against ceramic.

"I've always wondered how long they can wade into a swamp before they sink into it, either blind to the mud or embracing it. I suppose the City of Lies is my answer."

Temujin set his cup on the table after a quick sip, nodding ruefully to the Ide.

"We've certainly tried, when the city was in our hands. But justice never really took root the same way as crime and profit, did it?"

But still, for all that keen awareness, grounded in what he saw... There was a spark of idealism.

"Still... I have hope. We have the might to strike at the city's crime, the wealth to shape its businesses, and the heart to heal its hurts. Each of us, with our own skills where they're most needed."

With a short nod, Temujin smiled. Not cynically, or defeatedly. But with a quiet resolve, aware of a tough journey ahead, yet prepared to complete it.

"It might take years, or even generations... But I hope that what we'll show them that there *Is* A better way, and that it will live in the hearts of the people."

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Melba
"I hope we will," Takuma echoed, though without the same level of conviction. Nevertheless, there was the glow of admiration in his eyes as he regarded the Shinjo. "I commend your optimism. Even though I don't share it, I want to, and perhaps I may yet discover it. While I've come to face the reality that I may not live to see the fruits of our work here, I shouldn't let that affect my dedication toward fulfilling it."

He cast his gaze upon the plentiful portions that remained of their spread. His mood was torn between his satiation and his eagerness to taste more of the well-seasoned meats he'd had prepared. In the end he decided for the sake of his health he must abstain, and instead took another sip of tea. 

"Look at us," He remarked dryly, "Feasting while we discuss the plight of the *Heimin*. If only they too could enjoy these simple pleasures." A new thought visibly interrupted him, causing him to suddenly raise his eyes back up to meet Temujin's. "And why can't they? After all, the clans have enough resources that none should ever go hungry. Were we only to exert them effectively, why then would anyone feel they must resort to crime?"

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Earl
"To go forth even with doubts is resolve that honours our ancestors, Ide-san." Temujin replied encouragingly. "Both hope and Duty saw them through 800 years of wandering. Though I hope it won't take another 800 years to help this city."

It seemed that Takuma had eaten his fill. Temujin, in turn, sampled a bit more of the spiced meats before setting his own chopsticks down. Just a bit more enjoyment in the spirit of their gathering, before moderation brought things to a sensible pause.

Then, the courtier shared his comment on their meal reflecting on their surroundings. The Ide's fervent observations indeed made it clear to Temujin that his own heart beat for justice. And as it was a matter close to the Shinjo's own heart, he nodded ruefully with a familiar weariness of the world.

"I shared similar thoughts with Ide-sama. And there were even a few hosts who deigned to answer me. Reasons like proper order, Clan strength, or deserving servants," He recounted. He paused but briefly to grimace, meeting Takuma's gaze as he concluded "Among all those explanations, the only ones I could truly accept were when one simply has nothing to spare. Which others never fail to exploit."

A fact of politics, especially with their Crab friends or their silent Dragon neighbours. And sadly, which their longtime allies the Crane used to enrich themselves. He never liked that.

"We can certainly feed the *Heimin* Day by day. But hopefully, we can move the right hands to keep following our example, while removing those who would take."

An uncertain future. A goal without guarantee. But for now, at least, something to aspire to.

"But for now," The Shinjo added more lightly, "We can at least make sure this doesn't go to waste."

Temujin summoned their servant inside, nodding to them.

"We've had our fill, thank you. Please serve the rest to our servants who accept meat."

A small gesture, simply feeding them for a day. But at least this day, they could do so.

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Melba
"I have much enjoyed our conversation, Shinjo-san. As I said earlier it's refreshing to spend time with one's own clanmates. In fact, I like to think that out of all the Great Clans, the foreignness with which we are so often regarded, has forged a tighter bond between our families than one might find between those of the Phoenix or Crane, for example. So that even though we have found ourselves discussing politics and strategy this day, there has been no intrigue, no deception, nothing hidden behind honeyed words. We're united by common cause."

As the servant departed, Takuma stood, and offered Temujin a polite bow to punctuate his statement.

"It would seem that my activities these past few months have brought me a great deal of unwanted stress. So I think it's prudent that I host or attend similar engagements more frequently going forward. And I would appreciate enjoying your company again soon."

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Earl
An honest, open smile graced the Shinjo's face in response to Takuma's praise.

"As with our steeds and *Heimin*, so too with each other. Sharing the journey brings our heard closer."

Of the children of Shinjo and the qualities they embodied, it was for good reason that the Shinjo were the heart of the Clan, and the Ide its soul. To be in sync with a Clanmate, especially from a family he had grown close to, was gratifying.

There was perhaps more Fire to this Takuma than in Ide Yesugei. But that, too, was honed to temper the Ide's weapons: wits, words, and conviction, wielded in truth and wisdom that all may prosper.

Temujin in turn bowed in return to Takuma. His words were spoken with a warm humility and deep respect, though it was also clear this all felt familiar to him as well.

"And the feeling is mutual, Ide-san. Especially when so much of this city is at odds with what we cherish. I do admit, I believe there is much I can learn from you as well."

He offered his hand to shake in the traditional salute of their Clan. And as he did so, an eager spark coloured his eyes as a thought was finally loosed like an eager hawk.

"And speaking of good company, I do write to Ide-sama often. I'm sure he'd welcome a letter from you, but I'd also be happy to mention you next time I write. It may be some time before you have a chance to meet, but he would be delighted to know a fellow Ide of your quality."

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Melba
Takuma nodded warmly at this suggestion, and accepted the offered handshake, taking Temujin's hand in a firm grip. "Yes, please do so. I should very much like to meet Ide Yesugei, given the opportunity."

His words were sincere. Takuma hoped that an engagement with the other Ide might eventually arise. He had always been eager to learn from others, and to see how one approached responsibilities similar to his own could be most helpful.

"Thank you again for coming today, Shinjo-san. It was truly a pleasure."

!!