Daniel
The sun fell as the moonlight illuminated the Scorpion Gardens, soft winds rustled the trees and flowers as the greenery tonight bestowed a tranquil presence. Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto sat beside one of the many ponds, watching his little friend chase the koi. Seated just underneath a tree, his Daisho were set aside within the grass. The magistrate wore a cherry red kimono and an azure blue hakama, contrasting to the red and gold mask that covered the entirety of his face. 

Very often he came to a more isolated area in the gardens, whether it was to get away from work or meditate. That or simply to escape the burdens of people, Yuto often confided in the joy of his turtle, Kame-san seemed to enjoy himself. He took a breath exhaling, ridding himself of the day's tiredness. 

It was then a chill came over, the night was setting in. Slipping on the ruby red Haori as it now draped his shoulders. Moving hands behind the neck, Yuto would flick his dark silk hair out and over the coat he put on. Letting one's long hair down was a good way to warm up, he looked nearly ready to go.. But Kame-san was enjoying themselves, so he'd stay a bit longer. Though his eyes averted from the pond to the sounds of an approach, taking in the footsteps as he turned to see just who it was. 

||
Brain
Recent events being what they were, Sanumo had taken to seizing opportunities to relax and unwind when they arose. With embassy functions settling down for the day, he'd donned some simple earth-toned apparel and set out to enjoy the quiet night air.

*It's not like the embassy will burn down if I'm gone for a couple hours.*

A good facet of the Scorpion Gardens was that they had myriad winding paths, secluded nooks, and the like. It made for a new experience every time - or at least for someone as relatively new to the gardens as he.

For much of the walk, he'd done his best to tune out his thoughts - or even dampen them - but a loremaster's mind was reluctant to be so tamed.

So it was that he was surprised when something caught his attention and pulled him to the present. He stiffened momentarily before recognizing the figure of a fellow samurai taking in the sights - in this case, his own approach. The young courtier tucked some loose strands of his hair back into the cord circlet at his brow. « Apologies, Scorpion-san. It was not my intent to intrude upon your piece. »

With limited experience with the Scorpion and naught but tales and history to go by, it was a little unnerving to be suddenly alone with one. In the midst of the night. In what used to be their home territory.

*Stay calm. I haven't given them any reason... Have I?*

||
Daniel
Upon seeing the man tread through the Gardens, the scorpion turned his attention away from the pond. Standing to greet the man that had seemed to stumble across him, it wasn't a rare thing to bump into others. Though he hadn't seen this individual before, what clan were they from? Judging by his clothes he was certainly a Samurai, but the colors weren't recognizable. 

"Greetings, taking in the sight of the garden I see. It's quite the spectacle at night. I'm Bayushi Yuto, it is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." 

Giving a slight bow, the scorpion smiled under his mask. The man seemed somewhat surprised to find someone else, whether or not he was intimidated by the Samurai wasn't clear yet. In any case, Yuto wouldn't make any exaggerated gestures. 

"I come here quite often, my turtle likes to play in the water with the Koi. It can be entertaining to watch sometimes, but most of the time I come to clear my mind. Hope I'm not disturbing your free time."

||
Brain
Returning the bow, Yuto may have glimpsed a splash of red across the Asako's back - that of the Phoenix mon. Regardless, his doubt as to who his guest represented would be short-lived.

« My name is Asako Sanumo and I'm likewise happy to have met you. In no way have you been a disturbance - or at least not of a negative sort. » He stalled for just a moment, a slight frown emerging at the corners of his mouth. « Did you say ´turtle´? » Having not yet noticed the critter, it was something he hadn't been expecting.

« You would be only the second samurai I've met in this city who keeps an animal as a companion. » He didn't say it as a judgement; only stating as much in the same way as one might regurgitate a fact from a scholarly text.

||
Daniel
Asako Sanumo? It was an interesting name, having heard many he didn't recognize it. Perhaps this was a new fellow entirely, though when he bowed the mon of the phoenix became clear. Having not made an impression he slightly straightened up, making sure to give no negative thoughts. 

"An honor to meet one of the esteemed Phoenix clan, I haven't had the pleasure yet. And yes I do have a little turtle companion, that's Kame-San over there in the water." 

He turned, pointing a finger at the only turtle in the pond. Playing and chasing the Koi fish around, the turtle was certainly unique. Having a more squared shell with horns over its eyelids, giving it quite the narrow field of vision. The little critter was harmless and enjoyed nature as its owner. 

"Being the second Samurai to have an animal companion? What a shame, if others knew how good it was I feel everyone would do it. I've been wanting to get another companion, I was thinking of a dog." 

Before he rambled off too much about his love for animals, he waved the man over. The scorpion would sit once more, this time on the left side of his Daisho. Despite the informal setting he did what one could to make it less intimidating. 

"If it's not too much to ask, join me. I'd love to hear of how you're taking to the city."

||
Brain
*A curious little creature. I believe I've only read about ones like that in books.* He spared a few moments attention when Yuto pointed Kame-san out before being drawn back by the man's own words.

« Certainly. That seems as good a way to pass the time as any. » Several soft footfalls later, he took his seat alongside the samurai and watched the gentle rippling and splashing of the pond.

« How I'm taking to the city, hm?... » The question gave him genuine pause and he rubbed an idle hand along his jawline while he considered it. Ultimately, he decided to be honest with the stranger, despite it potentially coming off as oversharing. Fuyuko had urged him to become more direct, after all.

« In truth, it is simultaneously the best, yet most dangerous city I've had the pleasure of being posted to. My experience has been much like that of a bird who has built their nest too far out on the branch. There is great promise if the tree should hold firm, but great sorrow should it finally give way. »

He sighed deeply, the young courtier seeming weary - especially now that his features were more clearly visible up close. Quieter, he added, « I'm doing my best to support the tree. »

Unspoken was the thought that sometimes even he needed a bit of support, such as that of a moonlit night's walk.

||
Daniel
While his answer wasn't surprising, the scorpion was rather impressed at the man's persistence to support the city. Most within a few weeks or months would have been discouraged, maybe he was but didn't want to show it. Yuto's a scorpion after all, wouldn't want to reveal too much. 

"I find myself sharing the same feelings as you do Asako-san, the city can be quite overwhelming with its pressure upon the shoulders. As Magistrate of the Scorpion I find myself being chased around, though every sufficient deed relieves that pressure with an abundance of satisfaction. Perhaps it's the sole reason I keep going." 

Yuto spoke honestly, the two were being very grounded with one another. There was no reason to lie about the condition of the city and the relative relations between clans. Though the scorpion and phoenix had not made much contact, as far as Yuto was aware, they were a mystery. Granted a lot of the other clans were, but he decided to not waste time. 

"I must apologize for the tardiness of my Clan. It's my intention to reach out to the others and reimburse positive relations, and of course serve as host seeing as we're in our home land. How have the Phoenix been faring in Ryoko Owari Toshi? I've been so busy the chance to see for myself has evaded me." 

||
Brain
It was somewhat heartening to find his sentiments so readily mirrored by another samurai - and a stranger no less. Perhaps the fortunes did more to tip the scales than Sanumo liked to admit.

"While your apology is appreciated and accepted, I do not feel as though it is warranted. If your clan's experience has been anything like my own, it is no wonder that we have not found the time."

Pausing to collect his thoughts, the two watched Kame-san in his dogged pursuit of the fish.

"Our circumstances are the poorest I've seen them since my arrival. Taisei-san, the shugenja who attacked a peasant, severely damaged our reputation and credibility - both with the peasants and the Unicorn."

Grimacing, Sanumo envisioned the moment he'd received the news and everything had begun to unravel around them.

"I promise you, Bayushi-san. The ambassador and I have the city's best interests at heart. We only need open minds willing to entertain our plans. Minds that are currently either firmly shut or indifferent to us."

"Someday soon, I hope to win your clan over to our cause." He was uncertain how much to say on the matter. Yuto had revealed himself to be a magistrate, but status and influence with one's betters did not always go hand-in-hand.

||
Daniel
His eyes peered through his mask, staring at the Phoenix as he spoke. Even though his apology may not have been warranted, giving one was important. The other clans needed to know the Scorpion were on the move, formulating ways to install good relations once more. Yuto chuckled when he related their experiences in the city, perhaps they were not so different. 

"Sounds like a great crime was committed against the Unicorn by this Shugenja, what's become of them?" 

The scorpion was curious, ruining credibility with peasants was a funny thought, but the Unicorn weren't to be underestimated. If the phoenix had done something grave against them, they were certainly hand in hand with the scorpion. Whatever their plans were, maybe the clans cooperating could benefit. Yuto certainly didn't want to make enemies with anyone, but the Phoenix were certainly a piqued interest. 

"I too have the city's best interest, but I cannot do much while our claim is challenged. That someday you speak of could be today, my ears are open." 

||
Brain
"Taisei-san?" He raised an eyebrow. "Cast out as ronin. A kind fate, circumstances being what they are. You might even still find him in the city, if he has elected to stay." It was clear based on how he emphasized the latter that he'd much prefer the man to move on.

Yuto's delicately-worded proposal to discuss the future now was tempting. *This is not how Iemon and I intended this to go, but... We take the opportunities we are given.*

"Very well, Bayushi-san. Then let us work to satisfy your claim. That is, after all, the Phoenix's will."

He gave Yuto a moment to digest that before continuing. "No matter which clan earns governance of Ryoko Owari Toshi, it sets the stage for conflict. Doubly so if it is the Scorpion or the Unicorn. This is... Less than ideal."

"In a perfect world, we would seek to satisfy the claims the Scorpion, Unicorn, and even Lion have to the city by giving them equal presence on a governing council. Our hope is that, with suitable balances inside and outside the council, it could hold firm and save many, many lives."

"We have, as you might guess, had mixed success with pitching this idea. I have not met your ambassador myself, but my concern is that they may see owning anything less than all of what you've lost as an unacceptable outcome. However, should all parties come around to the idea, or a different version of the plan come to pass, we need only convince the governor to speak well of it to the emperor at the winter court."

It was, to many, a veritable moonshot. A plan too high-minded to possibly succeed. That was exactly why it was worth striving for.

||
Daniel
To be cast out as a Ronin, while it was a mercyful fate one wouldn't agree that it was kind. Though whatever he must have done ought to be a grave crime, Yuto couldn't imagine. Whilst the man spoke of the vision he and his ambassador shared, Yuto grabbed a pebble and tossed it across the pond, skipping a few until finally sinking. Looking back at the man, what he said was naive. Though he already admitted such, in a perfect world it would work, but this world was far from such. The scorpion couldn't agree, but he could see the benefits of an arrangement. 

"You're right, that proposal will only succeed in a perfect world. You understand no clan but the Scorpion possesses a proper claim to the city, yes? We're in our homeland. Shosuro Orochi was a fool who sought to incite a War for his personal ambition, the rest of our clan does not share his madness." 

He spoke sternly but not rudely, the two were civilly discussing what could become of the city. While there were obvious flaws to such a plan, Yuto saw the highlights. 

"I wouldn't be opposed to a council helping in the governance of the city, especially since it's an important trading station. But We Scorpion serve the Empire, but any other clan taking control of the city would insult us greatly, and lead to unwanted conflict." 

When bringing up his Ambassador, the man almost rubbed the back of his neck. Having no idea what would come of such a role, as of right now Yuto was operating independently, practically undermining his superiors. All of it was for the benefit of the clan, but who would see that? 

"Has anyone shared in your interest and vision for the city?" 

||
Brain
A dry laugh escaped his lips, "No proper claims save your own? Next you're going to tell me that only the Lion or Crane claim to Toshi Ranbo was valid for centuries." He shook his head, "While I speak of lofty goals, we are dealing in realities. The reality is that, as much as it would be simpler for all if the Scorpion's claim we're absolute, the Lion and Unicorn have their own claims of debatable validity and strength."

He leaned forward, elbows propped up on his knees, and ran his hands down his face until he held them just over his mouth. "I understand these are not the words either of us wish to hear, but I see no point in lying - even to you. I am a historian, Bayushi-san. Your clan never loses this city for long. If the emperor denies it to you, we both know what sort of things could happen. If it is restored to your ownership, you invite the wrath of other claimants or dissatisfied parties. At least with a cooperative solution, the city can be spared the toll that open conflict will bring upon it. That you are at least open to working with the others brings me some peace of mind."

He watched as the fish were still settling in the wake of Yuto's pebble. That was more or less the state of the clans right now. The emperor's intervention had startled all, but brought a brief reprieve before the next disaster. If he failed to avert it, at the very least he hoped enough would be done for them to weather it instead.

"I have found like minds, albeit with some difference in opinion, in more places than you might expect. However, I feel as though anything more than what I've already offered should go through Shiba Iemon-sama. There is only so far my word can take you."

||
Daniel
While his laugh was somewhat irritating, what Asako said wasn't wrong. If it weren't for his duty and obligation to his clan, he'd have been onboard with such a democratic plan. While he saw the strengths, there were far too many flaws for it to work. Nodding as he spoke, he sat and humbly listened. Yuto was gentle and meek, not giving any room for anger to overtake him. There was simply no reason. 

"No matter who the city is given to, Wrath will come with or without invitation. A council will not ease the tension between clans, rather it'll give motivation to do more of what's being done now. Conspire with those who support one another's interest to put down those that don't." 

That was the nicest way he could put it. If the Phoenix openly knew the scorpion wouldn't lose the city for long, why invite more difficulty in them reclaiming it? Politics were complicated so he did his best to simplify them and be straightforward. 

"What will your clan do when those you've built tension with use their influence on the council you proposed to weaken your position and deter your efforts?" 

He didn't say it sarcastically or rude, but out of true curiosity with a gentle tone. The man was smart, he knew things would only get done if tensions were eased. A council was a plausible idea, but a double edge sword can't promise it won't cut its wielder. 

||
Brain
Regardless of the direction Yuto was steering the conversation, Sanumo was appreciative that the samurai seemed more critical than anything of the plan. Founded concerns were always welcome; baseless conjecture was not. His questions were intelligent and, normally, would have prompted him to sit in quiet contemplation before answering.

However, these worries mirrored those that others had voiced before and he was thus more ready to meet them.

« The purpose of such an endeavor is not to remove tension or competition. It is to perpetuate peace. The council, or any equivalent measure, would provide a non-violent avenue with which to resolve or outright prevent conflicts. I think we can both agree that it far beats the alternative. Tournaments, sports, the arts - they're not only for self-enrichment and for the enrichment of others, but for providing outlets with which to dissipate the same forces which lead to bloodshed. »

It was clear above all else that the young Phoenix believed in the possibility. For all those who would balk at the unorthodox nature of the idea, the problem - at least in his eyes - was winning them over to it, rather than the execution itself. Where the will goes, results will follow.

« As for if this measure would be used against us, it undoubtedly would. Samurai cannot limit their actions based upon what the spiteful or wicked may do with what they have wrought. They must align themselves with the course that has the most potential for good. If that good comes at our own expense, then it must be so. At least it will save lives. »

In gesturing along with his speech, his apparel had become slightly awry. He paused to straighten the lines and smooth them out before continuing less insistently.

« We do not stop forging katana every time a lowly ronin wields one for ill. Neither will we stop seeking improvements, spiritual and otherwise, for the Empire even if they are twisted to undesired purpose by some. »

||
Daniel
It was at this point in the conversation where Yuto would truly question the man. Did he not understand the council wouldn't perpetuate peace without first removing tension? This idea wouldn't prevent violence, merely delay and give the ambitious more time to gather their bearings. It seemed the Scorpion and Phoenix were at a fundamental disagreement here. Contemplating the man's words at first, Yuto would speak. 

"Asako-san, I admire your clan's desire for nonviolent solutions. But we can't expect everyone to act with your level of goodwill, I don't know the interests and ambitions of your clan, but I would like to. Your plan leaves too much to chance, and the percentages lean towards what you wish to avoid.." 

Put all your enemies in a room and they'll find a way to be rid of you. The Phoenix were certainly naive, but perhaps with a nudge and adjustment to the plan they could make wonderful ally's. It wasn't as though he were trying to deflect the plan, but make essential improvements. 

"I'd love to discuss this more, would you mind telling your Ambassador of me? Perhaps we can discuss this plan and what you envision in greater detail. The times are growing unpredictable, we must map out where this vision can lead, that is if it were to succeed."

||
Brain
He offered a weary smile, aware that he'd somehow turned time away from his duties into time in service of them. A heavy burden does not come loose so easily.

« This I can certainly do, Bayushi-san. The empire only functions because those with different viewpoints find common ground. Why should we be so different on a smaller scale? »

*And after our most recent meeting, Iemon will surely be pleased with the speedy, if unexpected, connection with the Scorpion.*

« I'm sure Shiba-sama will be more than eager to hear what you have to say. Know that he may also request my presence at such a meeting, whether for recording purposes or more. I am his Karo, after all, and such discussions are best advised upon if I witness them unfold myself. »

||
Daniel
He was happy that the man wanted to arrange something with his Ambassador. The Phoenix seemed to have no ill intent, and while they were at disagreement with such a plan, they wanted what was best. Yuto would tread carefully and with honor, so far that's what he received and it's what he'd return. 

"You and any of your clans presence is welcome, and I ensure to make you feel welcomed in the city. I look forward to meeting your Ambassador, I intend to find a solution our two clans can agree on and pursue together.." 

He nodded his head in assurance. It was getting late and time for him to be on his way. Thus, he stood up, collecting his Daisho. Placing them back on his waist he'd walk a few steps over to the pond, kneeling to then wait for Kame to swim upon his hand. Turning back to the Phoenix Yuto would bow. 

"Your presence and wisdom I've found enlightening, but I must be going. I look forward to wherever we meet next friend, travel safely." 

He'd wait in case the man had anymore to say or discuss, if not the scorpion would take his leave. Carrying a bright smile across his lips. The Phoenix.. Could he bring them into the fold? Or were they going to unravel their plans? He hoped to find an ally in them. 

||
Brain
||I'm fine with wrapping here. All that would be left for me to write out would be some parting words and I don't think I have anything particularly impactful on that front.
Daniel
|| All good! I appreciate the scene, hope to see you soon!