Joanne
It was warm, sunny, perhaps a tad bit too hot for the small lion ambassador who was fiercely kicking the ball against the walls of the embassy. Not that she'd kick enough for the walls to crumble but she remained cautious to not wake anyone. 

The small lion ambassador had put her wild manes into three braids, two to the front of her head that dangled over her ears, one bigger one on the bag. Ironically she still looked like the unhinged and wild child she was. Barefoot the ambassador had kicked against the ball over and over and over. Not out of boredom, it was some sort of training as the red spots on her feet marked progress, at least in her eyes.
Josephine
Hotaru's day had so far been rather pleasent. She had spent the mourning between meals reading over letters that had arrived from her Onee-sama and Father and then composing letters to send back in turn. Letters to her elder sister were always easy, the two got on well even if Junko enjoyed teasing her far too much. Letters to her Father always took time to write. It had been a long-time tradition between the pair to exchange letters written in prose. There were times, of course, where she did not have the hours to perfectly compose stanza that reflected her thoughts and answered any questions the aging Ikoma bard might have about her wellbeing, and she would write more succinctly. The prose-letters were an activity she enjoyed though and reading her father's words was always heartening.

Having spent the better part of the day cramped indoors over ink and paper, Hotaru felt the need to streatch her legs and had decided a walk in the embassy's garden would suit. The closer she got to the gardens however, the louder rang a rythmic thumping sound. Intrigued as to the cause, Hotaru let her ears lead her footsteps. Her eyes widened almost comically once she realised the source of the sound was the young Lion Ambassador herself! 

Pausing in her step, still some distance away and behind Himiko's field of focus, Hotaru was left struck as she took in the sight of Himiko-sama kicking away with the ball. The young girl was an enigma to Hotaru, who had always been baffeled by her position at the embassy as an Ambassador, given the young woman's youth and this visage only reinforced Himiko's youth in her mind.

As she watched the woman continue to kick the ball at the wall however, she could not help her thoughts turn to her siblings. Their mother had joked that she'd had enough of them to fill an entire cuju team. The activity had been rather popular with all of her siblings, as rambunctious and energetic as they had all been.

As she took in the sight, she could not help the shards that stabbed into her heart as images of one of her younger brothers rose unbidden. A frown came to mar her face as she thought of him. Whenever Kenji would sulk or was pissed off, he would steal away one of the households cuju balls and kick it for hours against a wall, much like Himiko-sama was doing now. Though... Given the Ambassador's expression, Hotaru did not think Himiko was sad or angry. 

She wondered though if this was a common occurance for the Kitsu, and if she had just simply missed the other times the woman had been practicing? Playing? With the ball. As her lingering elongated and Hotaru acknowledged that perhaps she should just move on, something within her hesistated. Thoughts of her brother still lingering. She had not touched a cuju ball for some years now... Perhaps.. Perhaps now might be a good time to do so again. In a setting away from home, where the memories could be less painful. 

Deciding that she would make herself know, if the young lion had not already noticed her lingering, Hotaru moved forward, making a note to be particularly heavy footed, so that the young Kitsu might hear her approach before she spoke. "Kitsu-sama, enjoying the day I see." There would be the slightest whisper of a smile on Hotaru's face as the Kitsu's attentio moved to her, and Hotaru would make a point to wait to bow lowly until Himiko could witness the act.

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Joanne
Himiko had turned to Hotaru. She hadn't noticed the eyes burning. After all she was used to it by her attire and all. It would be special if there was a day without stares. The Kitsu tilted her head as she announced herself. All Himiko did was kick the ball towards Hotaru. 

*"Think fast."* The ambassador chanted. A slight grin on her face. Of course she did not want the ball to hit Hotaru, nor had this been a test to see if the lion was good enough to protect her, it was an invite. So Hotaru did not get to bow unless she wanted to get hit. Himiko swiftly bowed down to the much bigger lioness as she stepped backwards. Once more inviting her to join in. It was clear she wanted a moment away from being ambassador. 

*"I am enjoying this day. How is yours Matsu-sama?"* Himiko asked. 

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Josephine
Hotaru's eyes comically widened in shock as the ball was kicked her way. Her response was clearly mostly instinctual. A step back and and only slightly awkward, unpractised reach with her right foot to to stop the ball in its tracks before it crashed into her or bounced off to oblivion. In the same movement, Hotaru's right hand moved to aid her balance while her left went to the daisho at her waist. Himiko had probably never seen the woman Matsu bushi unarmed, even within the Embassy's walls. 

The ball having been stopped, Hotaru shook her head and let out a chuckle, mirth clear in her eyes. "My day has been well Kitsu-sama" She smiles. Taking the time now, without balls flying, to properly bow to the woman, making a point to do so lower than Himiko had to her. "Though I must insist you refer to me as -san please. I am only a soldier, and one of no significant rank." Her face off as it was, Himiko might pick up on the stress in Hotaru's voice, she was clearly *Very* Uncomfortable with the younger samurai referring to her as sama.

"Has your own day been well?" She enquires. She wanted to kick the ball back to the girl, but aware of her daisho at her waist, she knew better than to get involved in such pursuits with them still on her. She had certainly learnt the hard way that it was not a smart decision to make. Also occupying her thoughts was the consideration that she did not want to presume that the kick was an invitation. The Ambassador could have just as easily been testing her reflexes. 

It was probably strange for Himiko to see Hotaru so... Open. At least... Strange in the reagard that the woman was not drunk, as that was likely the only situation when the Matsu bushi was not presenting herself as serious and fierce.
Richard
One could not put off something they dreaded forever. It was for this reason that Kazuko found herself back at the Lion Embassy once more. This time, though, she was not here as a diplomat, or as a warrior. No, instead it was as . . . What exactly?

A playmate? The Lion Ambassador was certainly young enough that the Battle Maiden nearly confused her for a child when they first met, but the youthfulness was not childishness. Even samurai were allowed enthusiasm for their passions. No, she was not here simply to play.

A clandestine meeting? Perhaps. The Utaku was certainly not dressed in a manner to garner attention. Instead the courtly kimono she wore while performing her duties as Ambassador, she was dressed simply in casual Ujik-inspired riding attire. The more defined pant legs and closer fitting garb she hoped would allow her greater freedom of movement to participate in this unfortunate occurrence, but without the furs and leathers of a true Ujik design it would not gather any unwanted attention. Hopefully some intel on how the Lion's "Friendly talks" With the Scorpion had turned out would be shared today. Still, that was not why she was here.

A friend? Friendship between the two clans was a difficult subject. Respect was far easier, especially as a soldier. One can admire the qualities that make a good warrior while at the same time be against everything they stand for. Yet here they were, in a time of peace, striving for a similar goal. Kazuko could not help but feel a level of care and concern for the young Lion, much as she held for her own siblings. The Kitsu needed guidance, and while Kazuko felt woefully inadequate to truly help her succeed at her role, it was better for her to provide it than for the Ambassador to get it from—

A Matsu. As the servant leading Kazuko and Fuyuko turned the corner through the lovely gardens, the brutish sight of a quintessential Lion thug stood out as clearly as they had during the War of the Plains. This one was doubly recognizable as the one who had entered the poetry contest. Whether she would recognize Kazuko—who had appeared only briefly during the event and in clothes and makeup befitting her position—remained to be seen.

*Well, a Matsu is as simple to comprehend as their minds are. Not nearly as bad as one of their Ikoma Bards. And at least this one knows more than how to scream angrily.* As the servant moved off, Kazuko would bow respectfully but curtly at the Matsu, then deeper towards the Lion Ambassador, the faintest hunt of a smile passing across her face as she did so.

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Joanne
Himiko had nodded. *"Very well Matsu-san."* The younger samurai stood ready to receive the ball. Wishing for Hotaru to kick it back to her. Her child-like nature had shown. After all she had been a child and as stubborn as one she had refused to take away all of her fun in life. *"Would you mind practicing Cuju with me?"* She questioned. Standing ready whenever. 

*"My day has been surprisingly well-"* Then the Unicorn appeared. She looked much less uptight than she would normally do. It made Himiko happy to know that she'd keep her promise. A warm smile grew on her face as she bowed down accordingly. *"Utaku-sama!"* Himiko had chanted gleefully. Knowing darn too well Kazuko would rather spend her time on anything else. *"Welcome to the cuju court."* Himiko had calmed herself down a bit. 

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Josephine
A small smile had been creeping onto Hotaru's face in amusement at Himiko's energy. "I would not mind at all Kitsu-sama. I shall remove my daisho first however, the pitch is no place for swords." Hotaru smiled, softly kicking the ball back to the girl and reach both hands down to untie the swords at her waist.

As she cast her gaze to locate an adequate place for the blades, Hotaru sighted the incoming Unicorn. Whatever smile might have been inching its way onto her face settled back into the Matsu's resting bitch face. She as being polite... In that she was not actively frowning at them. Hotaru remembered their face from the poetry competition, this was the ambassador wasnt it? Damn. She'd have to play nice. 

Hotaru bowed to Kazuko with a mirrored "Utaku-sama" Though it was certianly FAR less enthusiastic than Himiko's. The Matsu's bow was shallower than she might have for any other ambassador in the city, though not by too much, but enough for a discerning eye to notice that she had far from the same enthusiasm as Himiko at their presence in the embassy. 

Hotaru, seeing the excuse to lay her daisho down on the nearby porch as an adequate reason to react with the Utaku as little as possible, moved do to so, though kept her eye on the interacting Ambassadors as she did so. She would rejoin the pair, standing just off to the side from Himiko.
Richard
How childish the Matsu was. Not unexpected. Kazuko decided to ignore the poorly disguised dislike of her presence. While she walked away to deposit her daisho, Kazuko would take the opportunity to respond to the Ambassador. "Thank you, Kitsu-san. I am a woman of my word, of course. Cuju it is. And perhaps a chance to catch up on recent matters?"

When Hotaru returned, Kazuko would cast a cool glance at her before signing as Fuyuko translated. "Matsu-san, I bid you good day. Your poetry was inspired. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life. Any words conveyed by her have the same weight as mine, as Ambassador appointed under the grace of our Emperor."

The reminder given to the disrespectful woman, her severe countenance lightened slightly. No need to worry about what opinion the Matsu had toward her. "Now, Kitsu-san, thank you once again for the invitation to join you. I am afraid I am still somewhat unfamiliar with the rules of this game. Would you care to aid me in understanding?"

Truthfully, Kazuko had done much research on the game to grasp how to ideally not make too big of a fool of herself when this day came. However, she knew well the excitement of explaining to someone else a topic which one had a passion for. She was loathe to deny Himiko that satisfaction. Besides, there was apparently a thing known as "House rules" Which could completely change the theorem of gameplay. Perhaps Himiko had some of those herself.

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Joanne
Himiko had received the ball from Hotaru and smiled at her. But like a child Himiko's eyes had sparkled when Kazuko asked to elaborate the rules. Kazuko had been right about the enthusiasm this girl held for a game like this. Little had Kazuko known that this was one of the last things she had truly remembered of her childhood and life at the lion before joining the phoenix and their ways. The younger lion had glanced over to Hotaru as she nodded that it had been okay the unicorn ambassador was here. 

*"Well. I am certain you have some knowledge of Cuju Utaku-sama."* Himiko knew. Of course she did because she'd do the exact same thing. *"But the rules of cuju are simple."* The girl grabbed a small stick and started to scribble in the sandlike ground. She drew a net, just like the one behind her. *"You must kick through the hole in the net before you can score into the half moons."* She then drew the moons. These were not engraved into the walls but simply drawn on with chalk. 

*"You must use no hands. Only your feet. You may play rough but do keep in mind I am almost half your length."* Himiko had warned. 

*"You score a point when the ball goes through the net right into the goal. Simple as that!"* Himiko smiled and clapped her hands together. 

*"Anything to add Matsu-san?"* She turned to the lion behind her. 

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Josephine
Hotaru would nod in acknowledgment at the introduction of the translator. The admonishment behind the Unicorn's translated word did not go over her head. Hotaru heard it, and on a level would even agree that showing the spite she held for the Unicorn was perhaps an unwise thing. Hotaru's hostility towards the clan was a deep-set thing however, she disliked the prospect that clear hostility might result in Himiko dismissing her. Leaving the young Ambassador alone with the enemy was a worse fate in her mind, than having to endure their company. Hotaru would do her best to school her expression, it was hard for her to remove the sense of displeasure she had at the Unicorn's presence though.

At Himiko's question, Hotaru shook her head. The younger woman had explained the game rather well. "No Kitsu-sama, yours is a good summary of the rules. I would, perhaps, clarify that the ball is allowed to make chest contact without penalty." SHe nodded.

||if thats incorrect apologies. But several spots i found info on for the sport said chest was fine too. XD
Richard
Good, no surprise rules. That should make things moderately easier. Kazuko nodded thanks at Hotaru's addition. A playful quirk of her eyebrow signaled her response to Himiko's *Warning*. "You may be half my length, Kitsu-san, yet somehow I feel *I* Will be the one in danger here."

Surveying the field, she thought for a moment as to her next move. There were only three players on the field; an unfair advantage for whoever the third ended up with. Unless . . . . "It seems we have an odd number of players. If no one objects, Fuyuko-san can—can also play, to even the teams."

The look of surprise, followed by defeat, and the brief hitch of the translator's words told all. She should never have told the Ambassador that she played this game with her children. "If you are agreeable of course, Kitsu-san, and since this is your court, I think it only fair that you select the teams."

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Joanne
Himiko had sparked up when she saw Fuyuko join in. But she read the room. She read the room all too well and knowing that teaming up with Hotaru would result in a Lion vs. Unicorn. So would it give Hotaru the opportunity to actually damage the Unicorn ambassador whether that had been purposely or not. Her teaming up with Kazuko would result in ambassadors versus. Also something she did not want. Darn. Although she had wished for Hotaru to have a good day she could not risk accidental injuries in a friendly game. Keep your friends close but your enemies closer. 

*"Fuyuko-san, would you mind teaming up with me?"* Himiko stated clearly. Still being polite as ever. *"I think Utaku-sama would be alright if I promised not to tackle her."* She had joked. Bowing down to Fuyuko to invite her into her team. Although she was kind of suspicious that Fuyuko had the chance of letting her superior win, she would be beyond excited. People that actually wanted to play Cuju with her. Although wanted was a broad term in this scenario. 

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Josephine
Today was going to have to end with sake. And a good deal of it. 

Some part of her wondered what offense she had given the Kami for the day's outcome. Hotaru was a fair sportswoman, being anything less would be dishonorable, and she had been prepared to referee the pair of Ambassadors, not having considered that the Utaku's aid might join. Refereeing would have been more preferable. Still... Hotaru took a measured breath in through her nose as she looked to her... TEMPORARY teammate, the Unicorn Ambassador. At least now, she knew she wouldn't be the cause of a physical altercation with the other woman. That was something. The thought of having to work with the woman though? To be forced to defer to her judgement? (Hotaru had no allusions that she could do otherwise in the situation) That tasted bitter on her tongue. 

Hotaru did her best to swallow her pride? Digust? Distrust?, there were too many ugly emotions to name them all, and levelly asked the Ambassador. "Do you have a preference for offense or defense Utaku-sama?"
Richard
It was not ideal. Two small opponents against two much stronger seemed at the outset to favor the Utaku and Matsu. However, the two she would be playing against had experience on their side. In addition, she hoped the Matsu would not take out her carefully bottled aggression against Fuyuko. It would technically be a loophole to assault her heimin translator in the Ambassador's place, and while the response from Kazuko would be swift, she could not afford to have her hurt—for her own sake of course, but more importantly for the translator's children.

Still, Himiko had made the decision, so she trusted all would work out. If she could not place trust in her fellow Ambassadors, how could she make progress in this city. Looking to the Matsu, she tilted her head slightly. "This is your field, your Embassy, your rules. I will follow your lead, Matsu-san."

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Joanne
Himiko was the first one to kick off the ball. It was simple. They were tall, strong and fast. But she knew Hotaru wouldn't dare strike Fuyuko. Neither would Kazuko because who the hell would speak for her. Himiko was well aware Fuyuko hadn't liked her or the lion that much but a bit of synergy in the fact that she just wanted to have fun seemed to resonate. The two of them started an attack. Kicking the ball high. As their shorter legs gave them wiggle room in agility and swift dodges. Himiko did all of this unannounced. Not waiting for the both of her opponents to get over their grudges. 

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Josephine
Himiko's action didnt allow Hotaru the time to continue conversing. The Matsu just frowned and grunted. "Then let us get the ball Kazuko-sama" 

Hotaru shot into a sprint, moving to impose herself between Himiko and Fuyuko. She followed close to the Unicorn aid though was keeping a good half meter between their bodies. Hotaru was hesitant directly engaging either of them, so imposing herself between them, where she could intercept passes of the ball. She had always preferred defence in cuju. There was much frustration to be gained by completely shutting down being able to pass to another player and this was the role Hotaru imposed for herself while the shorter pair held the ball.
Richard
Damn it all, no time to plan. The Lion Ambassador immediately charged into the fray, Fuyuko instantly in step with her. The teamwork between the two who hardly knew each other was remarkable. That had to be disrupted. While Hotaru worked to disrupt defensively, Kazuko was on the offense. Yet she did not move forward immediately, instead waiting and watching the patterns of play between her opponents as they progressed forward. *There. Now.*

Charging forward Kazuko roughly shoulder checked Fuyuko right as she went to kick back to Himiko. She may not know how to play this game well, but she knew how to leverage her strength. The ball went off course from its intended destination where Himiko would be. Hopefully this would give Hotaru the chance to surge ahead and take control of the ball.

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Josephine
Never one to not seize opportunity, Hotaru acted as expected when the ball moved off course, her longer legs covering the distance between herself and the ball faster than Himiko's own. 

The time since her feet had last met a ball showed however. It was clear Hotaru was familiar with the game, but instincts unpracticed would always remain inferior to those, like Himiko, who still regularly played the sport. 

Hotaru had control of the ball though. She took a moment to cast her gaze at the field. Himiko was no doubt closing in. Hotaru ran with the ball, moving perpindicular to the Lion to keep distance between them and to avoid a front-on tackle. Hotaru was intend on looping back to center field before closing towards the goals, keeping an eye on Himiko's proximity so she could kick the ball off to Kazuko before the younger woman could catch up with her.
Joanne
But ironically Himiko did not chase Hotaru. Instead she would help Fuyuko on her feet again. Giving her a friendly smile before getting back into the game. A sudden sprint from the short legged ambassador. Keeping an eye on Himiko was indeed a sane thing to do. But one whistle away and- Ilu showed up. Right there to body slam the tall Matsu. Giving Himiko time and space to intercept the ball. So she did. She would only chuckle out loud like a full on child. She had never cheated as she had never stated that Ilu was out of the game. 

Where would she be without Ilu? Far gone. But no time to think about that. The lion suddenly started to charge right at Kazuko with the ball. Hoping Fuyuko would follow. 

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Richard
*Oh, so* That's *How we're playing.* The dog was invited to join and now it was three vs. Two. No matter, if Himiko was going to play like this, then so would she. Counting on Hotaru to guard Fuyuko and prevent a pass to her, Kazuko met the advancing Lion Ambassador and swept her leg in an arc, seeming as if she was trying to intercept the ball.

Only at the last moment, she extended her leg farther forward, beyond the ball and between the Ambassador's legs. What seemed an attempt to secure the ball was actually a sweep designed to trip the Kitsu, ideally sending her to the ground while Kazuko used the momentum to make a break toward the goal.

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Joanne
Yet how sucesfully Kazuko had been at sweeping her away feet right underneath her body. Himiko had nothing but determination. Therefore the two small hands had grasped onto her leg before stumbling down. Not that the weight of the child had done anything to take Kazuko down with her. It at least would cause stall time. That and it would break the fall of the now feral looking ambassador. The grin on her face was like one Kazuko had shown in the unicorn embassy when her masterplan fell right into the correct pieces. This had granted the tiny ambassador to get on her feet swifter than expected whilst getting boosted by the sprint Kazuko made. A chuckle even sounded. It represented how unconventional himiko was. Yet it had shown her effectiveness in all ways. 

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Josephine
Dog had not be on the agenda, Hotaru thought as Ilu's large form barrelled into her, knocking her to the ground with an audible 'oof'. It took precious seconds for Hotaru to scramble herself back onto her feet, within which Himiko had stolen the ball and Kazuko had attemted to get it back.

Taking breath back into her lungs, Hotaru began to run after where the ball had wandered while Kazuko and Himiko were entangled, Ilu, probably thinking it was now part of a game of chase, following hot on her heels.
Richard
The Battle Maiden half ran, half dragged herself forward until Himiko dislodged herself from her leg. She would not stop to disentangle, that was the little Lion's problem if she picked up some bumps and bruises along the way. When Himiko found herself back on her feet again, Kazuko turned to face her, blocking her path towards where Hotaru was currently headed. If the Ambassador made a break for it, the Unicorn would not hesitate to tackle the girl.

Fuyuko moved to intercept the ball, but when the Matsu began to close in too she kept a slight distance, never closing in for an attempt to steal the ball away from her. It would become evident the woman was clearly unwilling to engage in any offensive movements against Hotaru. Invited to play or not, she was still a heimin, and knew far better than to willingly lay a hand on any member of the nobility unless her lady's life was at stake.

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Josephine
Ha! The path was clear! At least... Provided she outran the dog. Seeing Fuyuko's hesitancy and Kazuko clearly blocking Himiko, Hotaru pushed herself into a sprint, kicking the ball out ahead of her as she mooved, zeroing in on the goal distance. 

Ilu was hot on her heels, but Hotaru refused to let the pup catch her, making a few sudden sideways movements and turns to try and throw the pup's momentum off. Moving as fast as she was any hint the Fuyuko might try to interceed was met with a look that promised the Matsu's body wasnt going to stop if the slighter woman moved infront of her. Hotaru was going for the goals and would kick, hoping to the kami that damned Ilu wouldnt pounce on the ball before it went through the goals.
Joanne
And Ilu had not. They scored. Himiko had looked at Fuyuko and held up her shoulders like it had not mattered, giving her a reassuring smile. Himiko seemed not mad but neither to cheer for them. But something about the cooperation between the two would perhaps in the future grand more perspective, positive perspective. So on the inside Himiko had been celebrating. The lion ambassador took time to dust herself off. The shrine maiden robe had been completely covered in dirt and the child had looked like a true child. One that was celebrating the early part of life before it was entangled with war, honor, duty and politics. 

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Richard
*They . . . Scored?*

Kazuko couldn't believe it. Hotaru was unobstructed, the dog stayed back. Everything worked as planned, the two finding a surprising teamwork to achieve their victory. And Himiko . . . 

As a child, Kazuko loved games. Shagai, horse race, the fun little competitions between her and her siblings. Before long though, games became strategies and tactics, sports became drilling, competition became rivalry. It was a pitiable state samurai found themselves in, so bound by duty that *Fun* Was anathema. Satisfaction, thrill, contentment, all were complexly empty emotions to be sought for over simple joy.

The Lion now dusting herself off, watching the events unfold, wasn't an Ambassador for a few brief moments. She was a girl, happy and free, unbound by the weight of the responsibilities thrust upon her. Had Kazuko a heart it would have pained her so, to know that *This* Was the soul of the woman who was her peer, to understand what the world of Rokugan would one day exact from her, rip away in the name of "Tradition."

Of course, she didn't have a heart, Kazuko told herself. Himiko needed to learn the world would not abide by her childlike ways. Yet, when she turned to see how her fellow Ambassador was faring, a smile—unbidden, genuine and warm but with such sadness in her eyes contrasting it all—filled her features briefly.

It dissipated, the moment ended, and the Battle Maiden returned to herself. This game was intolerable. "Well played Matsu-san. Kitsu-san, to what score will we be playing to? Or perhaps you are willing to concede our victory?"

There was a hint of a friendly challenge in her voice. Truly it was an intolerable game. But maybe she could humor Himiko for a couple more rounds.

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Joanne
A grand smirk grew upon the Ambassador's face. A cheeky one. *"Bold of you to assume I would concede without a true battle Utaku-sama."* She would whistle for Ilu who had appeared right in front of her within mere seconds. Almost like it teleported. Himiko would check the dog for pains, after all she took down the Matsu. Ilu seemed to care little and just enjoyed the attention from her owner. Wagging her tail in joy. Himiko would smile and check on Fuyuko as well. *"Fuyuko-san, are you alright? If you no longer wish to play I could add Ilu to my team. "* 

Himiko had never implied she didn't wish to play with Fuyuko, after all she chose the poor woman to join her. She simply wished to cut her some slack as she understood how much she would be risking. That and much like she had displayed at hunting, Himiko and Ilu were a team beyond comprehension. The young girl was still brushing off the dirt but decided it was no longer to be fading. She was simply covered in dust, looking like the unhinged child she was. 

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Richard
Fuyuko looked at Kazuko, to see what her lady's instructions were. Kazuko simply caught her gaze and nodded, signing something to the woman. The little heimin's eyes hardened, and she stood straighter. "No, I think Fuyuko has been far too passive this first round, and she will remain. As long as there is not complaints, she will not be so easily beaten this time."

The Ambassador motioned to her teammate. "What say you, Matsu-san? Two verses three hardly seems fair. For them, that is."

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Josephine
Hotaru had retrieved the ball and stood with it by her feet now, one foot resting on the thing. It was strange, she thought, seeing the girl as she was.. Just a girl. 

The woman didnt look much older than her sisters Michiru and Rei and in that way, the three were similar. It was strange though.. To see such exuberance in one of her age. At heart, Hotaru surmised, Himiko seemed a child. Wholly innocent in a manner that her two younger sisters were not. She wondered at the difference, if it were the exposure to war, the loss of their mother, the loss of their brothers over the years. Maybe one day she might feel bold enough to ask.

At the Unicorn Ambassadors words, Hotaru had hoped Himiko would concede to the single point. Something in her spirit was disquieted but the strange cooperative she was forced into. It left her uncomfortable. Tense. She now much regretted having paused and approached the young woman. Hotaru could not tell her no though. Both because she did not like the idea of leaving the woman, even with Ilu present, because the was the clan's ambassador and refusal sounded most unwise without a proper reason and, because that grin on her face and innocent wash of youth reminded her of another face that could no longer take joy in such acts of the living. 

It was that grin that had her grit her teeth at spending longer working *Cooperatively* With the Unicorn. It was, perhaps though, her friend Katsuhiro's words that had her swallow her indignation at the Unicorn's familiarity with her as she did her best to spit out a polite reply that didnt leave her completely wanting to vomit in protest at the words. 

"If Kitsu-sama wants to continue then I have no issue with it."

Hotaru's gaze did wander to the fragile aid of Kazuko's though. "You though, I'm not about to bite off your hand if you touch me. Play properly or dont play at all." That was probably the kindest way Hotaru was going to inform Fuyuko that she wasnt going to bite the woman's head of.
Richard
Fuyuko nodded, a strange look having come over her after the silent exchange between her and Kazuko. Her hands relaxed, her posture shifted. Would it have happened with any samurai one might assume she were preparing a fighting stance, though not one familiar to the Lion.

Kazuko nodded, then turned once more to the Ambassador. "We are ready when you are, Kitsu-san."

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Joanne
And Himiko was ready. Before the Unicorn Ambassador and her Yojimbo even readied the girl stood in the middle. Her foot resting on the ball. Ilu on the sidelines, cautious for when she was called into the field again. The bare feet were dirtier than her hair and clothing somehow. She was a child. Or at least she displayed herself as one. If only one could imagine the potential she had. *"Ready?"* 

Himiko had however waited until positions were taken again. Not that she'd let them talk or communicate about any form of tactic they could hold. Kicking the ball towards Fuyuko as the small Kitsu took a sprint forwards. She somehow, for the length of her legs, was incredibly fast. 

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Josephine
Hotaru nodded a ready and then they were off. 

Hotaru rushed headfirst towards Fuyuko, leaving Kazuko to cover Himiko. The shift she had seen in the heimin had interested her greatly and now she wanted to test the confidence the smaller woman seemed to hold. 

Sticking her leg out, Hotaru went for a tackle, not afraid of a few limbs bumping into the other woman as she would wrestle for control of the ball.
Richard
Fuyuko, running with surprising speed, took the tackle hard, seeming to double over as she slid off behind and to the right of the Matsu. However, as the peasant crashed into the ground a spear-hand strike darted into the back of the Lion warrior's right thigh.

The first instinct was that such a strike should have hurt. It did not. Instead, a gradual numbness began to spread down Hotaru's lower leg and foot. Gingerly collecting herself back up from being sprawled on the ground while wiping a bit of blood off her cut lip, the little peasant woman sunk down into a near predatory crouch, drawing herself back as if a spring being compressed. Her eyes unwaveringly tracked the Lioness.

Seeing the Matsu gain Fuyuko's full attention, but lose control of the ball, Kazuko took the opportunity to make a break for it, hoping to gain control before Himiko summoned Ilu and made it a two against one. At least so it seemed. In fact, Kazuko was hoping for the dog to be sent at her. Ilu was not as large as a Unicorn Warhorse, and Kazuko was no skilled stable master, but she had some experience in facing down wild animals.

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Joanne
Himiko had glanced over just for a split second towards Fuyuko, hearing the crash. She'd need Miu to heal the poor lady later on. Perhaps she should learn some healing from Miu. The golden and blue eye suddenly turned attention to the new challenger approaching, Utaku-sama. A grand grin grew on the Lion cub's face. A loud whistle echoed. One that had not differed from the one before. 

The huge dog came charging at Kazuko. Her tongue dangling from the side of her mouth. Even the dog seemed off duty and enjoy this game just as much as Himiko had done. But before the beast had braced for impact, it had changed direction with one whistle. No longer going for Kazuko, but instead Ilu went deep towards their goal. 

Himiko was smiling and panting. Charging her shot for a brief moment as it clearly was aimed for Ilu. The moment the young girl braced for impact with the ball. It changed directions towards Fuyuko with a spin. 

Himiko went running again. Making sure to shove Kazuko a bit in an attempt to get her off balance. This was not the tactical play of the child and she was aware. This was simply challenging her. 

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Richard
Now there were three on the field again. Unfortunately the dog did not charge at Kazuko as she had hoped. Instead, Ilu went deep for the goal. Understanding the plan, she kept her attention on the Ambassador, waiting for her kick to the dog. Only it never came, Himiko instead giving the hall over to Fuyuko.

Too late the taisa saw the change in play, and as she went to intercept it she was in turn intercepted by the Lion Ambassador. A shove, but Kazuko was not going to allow her to get past. Reaching out as the Kitsu ran past, she latched onto the girl, lifted her up off the ground, turned, and set her back down behind her.

Meanwhile, Fuyuko darted forward to gain control of the ball. Running full speed—again remarkably fast for her size, she carefully began to line up a shot as the Matsu came back around. With the Lion's right leg in a state of uncooperative numbness, she planted a powerful kick to shunt the ball between Hotaru's legs and past it to the dog beyond.

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Joanne
*"Hey!"* Himiko would chant as she felt the floor underneath vanish. Her legs would wiggle frantically as if she had still been running. But instead of whistling for Ilu to save her, she'd whistle for the charge towards the goal. Soon the ground came back to her and she started to run like a madman. Himiko had not before shown this much speed with the little legs she owed. But she did not need to be there as Ilu was agile enough to bump the Cuju ball with her head, right into the goal. 

A happy squeak came from both the dog and her owner. Himiko would sprint to her dog only for her dog to tackle her hard. Real hard. Himiko would release a laugh of true joy. Together with some tears. Not sure if those came from the impact or the joy. The young Kitsu was now on the ground. Remaining there for a moment before the wild haired being sat up, and no that would not be ilu. Ilu was doing her round of joy. Approaching everyone for pets and a bow. Silly dog. 

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Josephine
Hotaru's eyes widened a bit in shock at the numbing of her leg. Looking back down at the heimin though, had a large grin sweeping up her face, her eyes alight with a gleam that always shone when her blood got pumping. The Matsu could hate the Unicorn all she wanted but it was a different matter when it came to their heimin attendants. It was the mandate of heaven after all, that the samurai class should rule and protect the peasantry. This view left Hotaru caring little for borderlines when it came to common folk. This one, she decided, she liked, despite her master's mon. Hotaru would step back and let the slighter woman stand and run off, letting her know there was no foul blood between them for the act. She shook out her leg to try rid herself of the growing numbing as she cast her gaze back to the fray.

Seeing Ilu run into the fray, Hotaru gave a few jogging steps. Things felt weird, and she certainly wasnt about the completely trust the limb but she would manage. She did her best to make a sprint for the goals, her longer legs giving her the advantage to close the distance and interpose herself between the ball and goals, but her leg, still grossly numb, felt awkward and she didnt have the same awareness of the limb to properly manauver it. The ball sailed between her legs to wards ilu behind her.

A soft smile would briefly light Hotaru's eyes at Himiko's reaction to the goal. Hotaru made sure to school the expression quickly though, in the hopes it would not go noticed. As ilu approached her for her congratulatory pets, Hotaru indulged the large dog, petting him on his head as she cast her gaze to Fukuyo nearby her. 

"How long will my leg be numb?" She simply inquired. Her tone was more amused than anything. No hint of the anger that the woman might have picked up on towards her master.
Richard
"Not for much longer, Matsu-san. It was a light blow." The heimin woman returned to form, eyes cast downward, hands clasped before her except to occasionally wipe the light trickle of blood from her mouth. When the dog came by she would reach out and gently scratch under its chin before sending Ilu on their way. "You are a gracious host and this one would never give offense by causing long-lasting damage."

While perfectly respectful, the faint hint was there. Fuyuko *Could* Cause long-lasting damage if she put her mind to it.

Ilu knew they would not get pets from the Ambassador unless they forced the issue. So, they approached from behind and nuzzled their head under Kazuko's lowered arm. The Unicorn would look down and gently rub the top of the dog's head. Once more the Lion Ambassador felt comfortable enough to express herself and her age before the assembled group. Had Kazuko been a more canny and uncaring politician there was certainly an avenue to exploit here. None of that even crossed the Battle Maiden's mind.

The score was tied. No one was about to let that stand. Kazuko rolled her shoulders back, wiped the sweat from her brow, and returned to a ready position. Time to go at this again.

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Josephine
Hotaru bellowed out a chuckle. "You are a good sport, Fuyuku-san! I hope that you did not land too heavily." The Heimin had impressed her and definitively joined the very short (single-entry) list of Unicorn associated individuals that had gained Hotaru's respect. 

The sight of blood at the woman's mouth left Hotaru mildly concerned. She hoped it was just a case of a split lip or cheek from the impact and not anything worse, she had been trying not to injure the woman even if she had tackled her. As much as the Matsu didnt care for the Unicorn ambassador and her clan, Hotaru was not so stupid to think harming the slight woman would result in no retaliation. Himiko didnt need to deal with that.
Richard
*And so the game continued. For every point Kazuko and Hotaru scored, Himiko's team would score two. At the end of the day, no amount of physical prowess would compete with understanding of the game or ~~cheating~~ a third teammate. Eventually, the unlikely pair would concede that they had in fact lost, before said defeat became too embarrassing and because they simply knew that other duties would soon call for them.*

Tired, sweaty, and sore, Kazuko walked over to the sidelines before sitting rather unceremoniously. The game had certainly been an exercise in endurance. Fuyuko approached, producing a cloth from seemingly nowhere that the Unicorn Ambassador gratefully accepted to wipe the sweat from her brow. "A well played match, Kitsu-san. Perhaps the soundness of your victory proved the cuju court is not for me."

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Joanne
Himiko would bow down to the two of them. The red colored face showed how much she had been exhausting herself, running around probably much more than Ilu would on a daily base. Her hair wilder yet somehow more natural than it had ever been. Yet somehow she had not shown any form of exhaust other than that red face. No wobbly legs, no sweat, only the dirt. She would make sure the attendants would come in with some cool water for them to drink. She would then smile brightly. *"Thank you for actually joining me in Cuju Utaku-sama."* Himiko clearly knew that Kazuko had looked up against this very moment, yet she had decided to join. She after all even made Fuyuko join. Poor Fuyuko. 

She would bow down to Hotaru. *"You were a great opponent Matsu-san."* She stated. Then a bow to Fuyuko would follow. *"As for you Fuyuko-san, you are an honorable teammate. Thank you for playing with me."* Soon dumplings would follow after the water. Himiko had planned this out from the moment the Unicorn Ambassador had set foot in the embassy. Making sure everything was going to be perfect.

She would dust off her clothing and stared at it for a moment, she smirked. This would and could be one of the last times they had seen her this way. After all things were changing and she was forced to change, or drown for that matter. 

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Josephine
"It was a good match Kitsu-sama. Even if the inclusion of Ilu was most certainly cheating." Hotaru replied as she bowed back in turn, humor in her tone. She had enjoyed herself, enough that when she next gathered with her siblings she was sure to wrestle them into a match with their old ball. The thing had to be somewhere in their family home.
Richard
"Of course, Kitsu-san. It was an enlightening experience." Kazuko prayed this would not become a regular occurrence, though she would never say such a thing aloud. Fuyuko would bow deeply at the Ambassador but remain silent. While serving as the Ambassador's translator she had no voice of her own. Both gladly accepted the water, and when the dumplings arrived, would help themselves—Fuyuko waiting until the others had their fair share, of course.

While she agreed that the inclusion of Ilu made the game less fair, she was of half a mind to quote *Leadsrship* To the Matsu when it came to honor on the battlefield. However, she was not here to stoke flames, and thus decided against it. Instead, she nodded politely at Hotaru. "Thank you for participating, Matsu-san."

Kazuko was content to stay and relax for a while longer, closing her eyes and taking another drink of the cold, refreshing water. However, Fuyuko moved silently toward her lady and whispered something into her ear. The Battle Maiden's eyes shot open, and she hurriedly stood, bowing before first Himiko, then Hotaru. "Apologies, it seems the day has gotten away from me. Other duties require my attention now, and I must be on my way. I . . . Look forward to our next meeting, Kitsu-san."

With that, as calmly she could remain while also hurrying, she gathered her things and left the Embassy. She was in no state to entertain visitors, a sweaty and disheveled mess returning to the Residence. Hopefully those she was supposed to meet also decided to be late.

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Josephine
Hotaru would mostly keep her silence, it was better than speaking and offending and truely? That was probably the best thing she could do. 

She would bow to Kazuko though as the woman moved to leave a simple, "Utaku-sama" In farewell. 

A tension Hotaru hadnt quite realised she'd been carrying left her as the Unicorn Ambassador left sight, it was something that would probably not go unnoticed by Himiko. She would wait, patiently rehydrating, for Himiko to dismiss her or make her own leave of the area, perhaps absentmindedly petting Ilu if the great hound desired.
Joanne
Ilu had loved pets. Therefore she had followed the Matsu. Bowing down to Kazuko, Himiko had watched the Unicorn Ambassador leave. Bittersweet somehow. She had enjoyed this game of Cuju enough. But with Kazuko's mention of looking forward to the next meeting, she would have disagreed. Once more the burden of the Ambassador had fallen right onto her shoulders. *"Until we meet again Utaku-sama, Fuyuko-san."* 

*"Matsu-san. Truly thank you for playing with me. I might have let my childlike nature slip a few times."* She would dust off her clothing as she observed her looks. Shaking her head at her own presence. *"Please do not tell Akodo-san. He might laugh at me."* It was a clear statement, light enough to be a joke, heavy enough that it held some truth. But she'd chuckle at it. *"Go rest up if you desire."* Himiko would grasp the Cuju ball and vanish into the Embassy. Returning to her duty. 

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Josephine
"You shall have my silence and if you ever desire to play again I would be amenable. It is almost like I am home with my siblings." The Matsu stated, allowing a soft smile to form on her face. "Enjoy the rest of your day Kitsu-sama." Hotaru bowed as the Kitsu was due, before making her own way about the embassy, pondering how she should spend the rest of her day.