Betty
Once again in search of a quiet moment after the duties of her day were completed, Kita found herself drawn back to the Scorpion Gardens. The tranquility there had been captivating on her initial visit and she was glad for an opportunity to return. 

She looked a little more worn than usual today. After reassessing the library's collection she had decided to move some of the more sensitive volumes to a new; more secure location nearer to her desk. She was no stranger to the physical labor, but she could still feel the ache in her arms from the work. A hot bath would be just the thing. 

She made her way languidly through the gardens, enjoying the late afternoon sun lighting the display of finery around her. Several of the animals in the zoo were calling to one another. Some day she might visit there as well, but not today. Arriving at the bathhouse she was greeted by an attendant who showed her inside.

 ||
Margaret
The attendant, a nondescript young woman barely out of girlhood guided Kita to one of the changing rooms and stood at the ready to assist the scholar in undressing, should it be requested, and then the redressing in a bathing robe. The girl made sure the Asako's clothing was neatly folded and stowed in a willow rush basket; after such necessary tasks finished, she guided the visitor to the bathing area. 

Kotori, for her part, was making her usual rounds. After heeding the advice of a friend, she'd left the overseeing of more mundane operations to trusted heimin, and instead focused herself on seeing that all guest needs were being met. Whether they requested scented oils or tea or music or a shiatsu treatment, every person who patronized the baths would be treated as an honored guest. 

She rounded the corner just in time to see the curtain leading to the women's bath flapping 'shut'. A new arrival! 

The little Scorpion decided to wait until the woman in question had bathed and entered the pools before making her presence known; most people were not overly keen on a stranger walking in while they were taking care of some of their most intimate ablutions. Instead, she took another way around to the onsen, taking a seat in her favorite pavilion. Today, she had a shamisen with her, and began to play a few warm up exercises. 

||
Betty
Kita allowed the attendant to assist, settling into the calm atmosphere and slow place the bathhouse afforded. It had been some time since she had taken the time to afford herself such luxury; certainly before the months she had spent here in the city. She could faintly hear music starting from beyond. Music wasn't her own forte, but she did admire the skill. Having completed her preparations in the bath, she exited to the pools, looking around as she did to identify the musician, if they were visible.

||
Margaret
While Kita bathed, another attendance had silently slipped to Kotori and announced that the newest visitor seemed to be of the Phoenix clan. The little Scorpion nodded and continued to play; it was always a benefit to know who had come.

She sat in the small pavilion, head bowed as she played to allow guests reasonable privacy while they entered the onsen. She waited until Kita had entered the pools before addressing her, keeping her tone bright and cheerful. "Greetings to you, Phoenix-sama, and welcome. I hope the Fortunes find you well this early evening."

||
Betty
Appreciative of the relaxing atmosphere and the heat of the onsen, Kita settled into the pool. She had noticed the musician in the pavilion nearby. It appeared to be the other scorpion that had been present at the dojo previously. She responded pleasantly to her greeting when the song had come to an end.

"Thank you for the welcome, Scorpion-sama. I am Asako Kita. I am very well this evening, and wish the same to you. I am only regretful that it took me so long to make my way here to this lovely
Place."
She nodded towards the shamisen Kotori held, "The music is a very nice addition, you are quite skilled."

||
Margaret
"Does not the saying go 'better late than never at all?'" Kotori smiled brightly at Kita. "I hope that you enjoy your visit, and make returning a pleasant habit."

"And many thanks for your kind words, Asako-sama. I am still very much a student, but your kindness delights me all lthe same. This humble one is Bayushi Kotori." She began another song, playing softly so as not to interrupt their conversation. She chose something slow, melodic, and relaxing. 

"Would you care for any refreshments? Tea, perhaps? Sake?" 

||
Betty
Kita smiled in return, leaning back and swirling her hands slowly through the water. 

"It is a pleasure to officially make your acquaintance Bayushi-sama. And please, -san is sufficient. I believe we were both present at Jotomon's for the duels, but I had only just caught your name that day. It was quite the exciting display."

She watched the other woman's skillful fingers play across the strings, sending the soft background of melody into the air. After a moment's considered, she accepted the offered refreshments, 

"My thanks, Some sake would not be amiss."

||
Margaret
"Then we shall both be -san, yes?" Kotori laughed softly, merrily. The invitation of familiarity always delighted her. 

"That's right! We did encounter each other there! I must confess, those matches had my heart in my throat. I was so worried that someone might end up actually harmed." She leaned off to one side and murmured to an unseen servant, never stopping her song. "It is wonderful to again make your acquaintance."

Scarcely a minute passed before a stealthy attendant appeared with a tray and sake carafe, approaching the edge of the pool near Kita. The servant smiled as she knelt down and poured the Phoenix a cup, bowing before backing away. 

"Should you think of anything else that would make your visit more enjoyable, please say the word."

"How long have you been in the city, Asako-san?"

||
Betty
Kita nodded in thanks as the sake arrived, and took a slow sip, savoring the notes of the flavor. She did some quick mental calculations.

"It seems that it's been much longer, but it's only been a few months. I've been trying to get settled in, feel more at home, and acclimate here."

At this she smiled to herself, acclimate indeed. Who would have believed last winter that she'd be sitting in a Scorpion bathhouse in the City of Lies. She turned back to the little Scorpion sitting nearby. 

"What about you, Bayushi-san? Do you hail from here in Ryoko Owari Toshi?"

||
Margaret
"I arrived in early Spring. This city has a way of toying with one's mind, I think. Not only do streets seem to turn back on themselves, but even time seems to pass differently." 

The little Scorpion laughed cheerfully, clearly making a jest. Of course, the city *Did* Have its peculiarities, especially the Shosuro Palace. But that mattered none at all right now. 

"I am excited to see the gardens in full bloom. Those flowers already budding are beautiful enough, but in the next few weeks I expect most will blossom." 

"Do you have any particular favorites flowers, Asako-san?" 

How nice this was, to engage in pleasant conversation with another woman.

||
Betty
"So another newcomer like me! Welcome to our fair city, Bayushi-san."
Kita announced with a flourish of her free hand, laughing in turn, basking in the warmth of the bath and the sake. While still audible, she lowered her voice, 
"It does seem to make one's head turn sometimes doesn't it. I had wondered if it was just me. I've been making an effort to learn my way around. Some days are better than others."

She smiled at Kotori, glad for the conversation.
"The gardens are lovely. I'm glad to have gotten over my nerves to come inside and see myself. Of course we have our own little plot at the Phoenix, but it cannot rival the scale and beauty here. My favorite are the jasmine. They remind me of the little bunches of them that my mother grew outside our door when I was young. The smell always takes me back."

||
Margaret
"Oh, it is definitely not just you! I think I passed the same fruit vendor three times in one day, yet all at different locations." She laughed again at her own foolishness. Thank the Fortunes Ryogo had been with her! "I too am making efforts to learn my way about, though I am uncertain as to whether I've had much success."

"I am so delighted that you have come. Arriving late is better than not al all." She finished another song with a little improvised flourish, then resting the shamisen across her knees. "I have not yet had the opportunity to visit the Phoenix embassy yet, but I am certain it is a place of refinement and beauty."

"Oh, jasmine *Is* Lovely, especially the night-blooming variety. It always makes me think of summer and fireflies." 

||
Betty
Kita gave an understanding smile, nodding with Kotori's observation. She chuckled, "I'm sure it will improve with time. It has to, right? What places have you had the opportunity to visit? Any of particular interest that I should check out?"

She took another sip from the nearby cup and stretched her neck, rolling loose some tension as the hot water worked its magic. Looking back up to the beautiful Scorpion adorning the small pavilion, it occurred to Kita that she looked like she belonged here among the blooms. She managed to edit the thought before it was uttered, the sake not having worked quite that quickly, and not wanting to embarrass herself.

"The Phoenix Embassy here is elegant, in its own austere way. I am glad to call it home now. And you? The gardens here seem like a place you feel quite at home. Do you spend much time here?"

||
Margaret
"Let us see... I have visited the music store, what was it? Ah, the Cat's Fiddle! Lovely place, and the owner was quite knowledgeable! I also happened upon this most wondrous little eatery called Morioka Miruku. Have you ever been there?" Upon reflection, perhaps she'd not been to as many places as it seemed. Then again, she'd oftened wandered with no real destination. It was hard to find where one was going when they didn't actually know where that was. 

She watched as Kita rolled her head, knowing that sensation and movement well from when she'd spent too long hunched over her compositions. "Forgive me for overstepping, Asako-san, but you seem tense. After the bath, perhaps you would care for a shiatsu treatment, or a massage? A fine way to end your visit here, I dare say, and sure to guarantee you an excellent night's rest."

"As for beauty, austerity may have its own appeal and attractions." She smiled again, plucking a note absently on her shamisen. "I do spend a great deal of time here. I have been recently installed here as the overseer of the baths. For all the chaos that comes in a such a large city, I find the peace of the garden a great source of solace." 

||
Betty
Settling back into the onsen, Kita gave a half shrug and bob of the head, "All the more reason I'm here, I could maybe be talked into a massage as well, we will see."

Her eyebrows knit for a moment in thought, trying to remember if she had seen either of the locations Kotori mentioned.

"I did not know there was a music store. Although that's not something I have been looking for either," She added with a laugh. 
"I can admire a beautiful tune, but I am no musician. Morioka Miriku? I will have to try that one myself. Anything particular I should look to try there?"

"I've been to a few of the eateries and tea house, actually with a few of your Scorpion clansmen. And Silkworm's Whispers bookstore is a personal favorite so far. It seems there is so much more of the city to explore though."

She perked up at when Kotori mentioned role as overseer of the baths. "Overseer here? Thats wonderful! It is a very calming place. How has it been treating you so far?"

||
Margaret
"You need only say the word." Kotori smiled again. She gave a shake of her hand and stretched her fingers, before propping the shamisen up on her lap again. 

"Morioka Miruku was truly amazing! First, when you enter, you actually must go down a flight of stairs to a sub-level, and it was quite cold down there. But the signature dish is something called 'aisu'. It's sweet and cold and..." She rolled her hand at the wrist, trying to think of the best way to describe the treat. "I believe it is a dessert of foreign origin, but I have never had anything quite so divine. Perhaps you and I might go together some afternoon?"

"I have yet to visit the Silkworm's Whispers, though I very much want to. I am told they have all manner of interesting books, if only one looks." She began to play a soft, relaxing song, keeping her attention focused on Kita as she spoke. "May I inquire which of my clansmen you have encountered? I recently had the honor of meeting your Karo, Asako Sanumo-sama."

"As to the gardens, I am very happy here. It a calm oasis among all the chaos of this city."

||
Betty
With a glance at Kotori's hand, Kita narrowed her eyes briefly and turned to address the other woman earnestly. 
"As much as I am enjoying your playing, the silence is just as relaxing if you prefer?"
She didn't want to draw attention to if there was some kind of weakness or injury, but also didn't want her to feel obligated to continue.

"Aisu, I will have to remember that for next time I go in that direction. Or yes! I would love to go together sometime."

"So you've met Asako Sanumo-sama. He's been very helpful in getting me settled into my role here and to feel like I belong. I am grateful for him."

She gave a chuckle thinking back to the memorable encounters she'd had so far with the other scorpion, and a brief shake of her head, 
"Bayushi Tomura I've run across a few times now. He seemed quite the fan of the book store also. It sounded like his personal collection was quite extensive."

At that Kita's cheeks turned a slightly rosier shade, possibly remembering her personal addition, although it may have just been the heat of the water.

"Also Shosuro Satoshi and Shosuro Kaze. I saw Bayushi Yuto, the magistrate I believe? At the dueling matches, but we haven't officially met. Speaking of, I don't know that I've ever seen anything quite like that second match. Other than maybe two children wrestling."

She gave a merry laugh remembering the *Bonk* On the head that finished the bout. She managed to suppress her amusement back into a solemn expression for the moment.

"Not that they aren't very skilled and serious samurai."

||
Margaret
"Whatever Asako-san wishes. I am unused to holding a plectrum for an extended period." She smiled and brought her song to an early end, again resting her instrument across her lap.

"We shall have to make an engagement to go get aisu together then! It will be nice to have company. When I went before, I met a lovely Crane there. Let me see..." She tapped a finger against her chin as she mentally ran through a list of names. "Ah, yes! Kakita Kiyoko. She, too, seems to favor the place."

"Asako-sama was very pleasant. He said he plans to visit the baths sometime, and I do hope he does. He, much like you, seemed that he could do with a bit of relaxation now and again."

When Kita mentioned Tomura, Kotori bit back a smile. She had seen his collection, albeit in a somewhat inebriated state and, well... It certainly *Was* Extensive. But perhaps not something to discuss with polite company. It also reminded her she needed to return the volume he had loaned her.

"Bayushi Tomura-san is certainly a great lover of books. I really must visit that store and peruse their offerings. I would like to acquire a new pill—poetry book." Oops, she almost let *That* Slip. Even though pillow books were incredibly popular, it was still frowned upon for samurai to indulge. She cleared her throat lightly, tucking a strand of hair back behind her ear. 

"You know, I was beginning to think Shosuro Satoshi-san was a ghost! I've yet to meet him, despite being in the city now for months." Another pleasant laugh. "Shosuro Kaze... I...He is a very serious man, it seems. I've not had the opportunity to speak with him in any great detail." 

*I also don't think he likes me* Was a thought she did not share. 

"Rokugo-sama, yes. He is a good man. I would be honored to introduce you, should the occasion arise." 

Kotori looked intently at Kita when the shugenja laughed, smiling again. "You have a wonderful laugh, Asako-san. You should let it ring freely." She herself giggled softly. "But, yes, of course. *Very* Serious samurai."

||
Betty
"If you are a lover of poetry, you must come by the library some time and I can loan you some of my books. I haven't sent for them all, but I did bring some of them with me, and several more are in the collection there at the Embassy." Kita insisted. "I am always happy to share."

She inclined her head at the compliment, "Forgive me for being improper, you flatter me. I am very much enjoying visiting with you."

"I haven't met any of the Crane just yet, although I have it on my *List*."
The way it was stated either might sound very threatening or quite organized, depending on how the listener wanted to perceive it.
"I have, however, had a chance to visit with a few Unicorn. Shinjo Shumire-san, and the shugenja-swordsman himself, Utaku Takeda-san. We had a nice stroll in Daikoku's Garden just the other evening. He is a very well spoken young man."

||
Margaret
"I would like that very much!" Kotori beamed at the offer of a book loan, inwardly exhaling a dozen sighs that she hadn't been caught out almost admitting her love of pillow books. "I greatly enjoy the way poetry and folk music often overlaps."

"And Asako-san, I speak no flattery. Only truth. Some laughs have a musical quality to them, and yours is such a one." She giggled again. "Some people sound a bit like braying donkeys, unfortunate as it is for them."

"Ah, the *List*. Don't we all have a list." She laughed again, good-natured and without mockery. "You have reminded me that I should also work towards making progress upon my list." 

"Oh, I too have met Shinjo Sumire-sama! She very kindly showed me around the bazaar. I think I might have been lost there for a week without her assistance." When Takeda's name came up, she blushed faintly and smiled, though there was a whisper of melancholy there. 

"Utaku Takeda-san is a very kind man." She did not wish to say too much, the ache in her heart still fresh. She especially did not want to admit she might have experienced just the tiniest pang of jealousy... Kita was a beautiful woman, and Takeda was a handsome man. Best to change the subject from the Unicorn.

"The Lion are filled with an array of interesting characters. Matsu Rin, in example, who delivered the finishing, ah, blow in that second match." 

||
Betty
"Oh, good. I'm glad I'm not the only one with such a list in mind." Kita gave another genuine laugh. "It's been primarily work-related, but it's also been more eye-opening than I would have anticipated, meeting all those from different clans." Watching Kotori's reaction, however faint, and the mention of Takeda caught her attention, her eyebrow raised slightly before she regulated her expression again. A mental note made, although Kotori seemed keen to continue on to other subjects. 

"I have yet to venture out to the bazaar. Even with Courtesy being expected and the meetings I've had so far seeming to go well enough, I suppose I've still been a little hesitant to wander freely there."

Matsu Rin-san seems..." Kita searched for the word to use. "Unique, for what I know of Lion. But I look forward to encountering her again. Maybe seeing what other surprises she has."

Kita's expression grew somewhat thoughtful at the mention of overlap of songs and poetry. "I have noticed that as well, music and poetry share certain similarities, the rhythm of the words. Do you write songs of your own? Or play those of others?"

||
Margaret
"Oh, certainly not! I think everyone has a list of some variety." She laughed with Kita, enjoying the sound. 

"The bazaar was wondrous! There was an acrobatic troupe the day I visited—one of the men almost seemed to breathe *Fire!* And the way they could leap into the air." Kotori exhaled a soft sigh of appreciation. "They were marvelous.

"There were so many different things to see. Books and carpets and these charming little silk slippers from the West and a huge variety of plants and herbs. I *Do* Hope you have the opportunity to go at some time, Asako-san."

"Many of the Lion seem quite different from what I was expecting. My tutors always told me that the Lion—especially the Matsu—were devoid of any feelings aside from rage. I am very pleased that is not the case, not among those I have met thus far."

When the subject turned to music, the little Scorpion beamed at her guest. "I play both my own compositions and those of others. Depending on my audience and the occasion, one may be better suited than the other. If it's a more joyful celebration, I tend to play more familiar songs, as I find that is what people often prefer to hear. But composing... There is something incredible about it, when you are finally able to manifest your ideas..." She laughed at herself, perhaps a little derisively. "I wonder if parents feel that way about their children." 

||
Betty
Kita nodded, taking in the description of the bazaar with interest. She would have to explore there some day. 

"Yes, I certainly agree with your assessment of the Lion here. It is curious, but seems to be to our benefit regardless. It is easier to maintain peace with those that are willing to talk. Those that are intent to find conflict most certainly always will."

Kotori had her full attention as she spoke of her music. It was enjoyable to listen to someone speak about something they loved. Kita could see it showing in her face as she shared.
"How lovely that you write your own as well as knowing the traditional pieces. Seeing something come together that is your own creation has a certain reward to it, doesn't it? If that's what parenting is like, I would not be opposed. Although a written creation is likely somewhat less messier."
Margaret
"Messier, and louder," Kotori could not help but giggle. "Sometime, I would be honored to play for you! I would be very interested to know what someone inclined towards poetry feels when they hear what I have written."

"But tell me, what are *You* Passionate about, Asako-san? Surely there is something that an insightful woman such as you devotes herself to pursuing." Any momentary pang of worry or jealousy was by now forgotten; Kita's company was simply too enjoyable to let a cloud of negativity linger for long. 

Rising from her seat, she set her instrument aside and descended down from the little pavilion. There was a low stone bench not far from the bathing pool, and it was here she again settled herself. "I hope that my moving closer does not trouble you. I'm having such a lovely time conversing with you I thought to save both our voices."

||
Betty
"It does not bother me in the least. If you weren't attending to your duties, I would invite you to join me properly. And if I am keeping you from them, just say the word." Kita swirled the water in little whirlpools in front of her as the little Scorpion took her seat closer. 

"I would love to hear you play more some time. Perhaps I'll bring a few of my poems and we will make it a meeting of the creative minds." She smiled at the thought and at Kotori's question. Able to speak in a lower tone now, more the volume of a normal conversation, she continued,
"I do enjoy my poetry, both the reading and writing, but my true interests lie more in history; major events, military actions, the like. I've been doing a little writing myself since I've arrived here, documenting my own experiences for posterity. 'Truth can never be lost, only forgotten'."

She had closed her eyes as she recited, then fixed Kotori with an impish glance.
"Although I'll admit, not all of the texts I read are of a *Purely* Historical nature."

||
Margaret
"Seeing that my guests are comfortable is a part of my duties, and if that means helping to entertain you, I am very much engaging in said duty." Kotori grinned at the Phoenix; Kita was even prettier than she'd initially realized, now that she was sitting closer. Her eyes roamed the other woman's face and shoulders as an artist might study a subject of particularly attesting beauty. There was nothing lascivious in her gaze, merely admiration.

"We shall have to make an event of that, too!" She clapped once in her delight. 

"I see! You're a scholar. That is a most noble calling." Though no one in the Empire needed her approval, Kotori nodded all the same. When Kita flashed that cheeky smile, the little Scorpion giggled behind her sleeve.

"Oh? Perhaps texts like *Lady Sasaki's Midnight Tales*? Or maybe *The Passions of Gennosuke?*" She named two pillowbooks she herself had read, giggling again. "We may have much more in common that I realized!"

||
Betty
Kita noticed the study the Scorpion focused her way, but appeared unconcerned with the attention. Her host had done her job in seeing her comfortable or the sake had worn away any worry, or both. She returned the glance in a more cursory manner, finding the admiration
Mutual, until she was distracted by Kotori's proclamation.

"Scholar, yes, but I suppose I should elaborate, I am the curator at the Phoenix Embassy library here in Ryoko Owari Toshi. Although I can't have been assigned there much longer than you've been here. Ive been quite occupied with becoming familiar with the collection and setting it to rights."

She leaned forward conspiratorially, lowering her voice in a theatrical manner, "Even libraries find a purpose in such volumes, most all stories have some root in the truth, and have something to teach us about ourselves, even if it's that we can be easily amused by a passionate tale."
Her smile grew wider, "Midnight Tales is one of my favorites when I am in need of some lighter reading."


||
Margaret
"Oh, my! That sounds like a monumental undertaking!" Her admiration of Kita was blatant when the lovely Phoenix revealed she was not merely a scholar but the curator of what may well be the finest library in the entire city.

"I cannot even imagine how time consuming that must be. It is no wonder you needed to relax!" Kotori smiled, spreading her hands wide to indicate the onsen. 

When Kita leaned into the theatrics, Kotori was quick to giggle. "I see you are *True* Woman of culture." She leaned back slightly on the seat, stretching her legs out in front of her. Something a child would do, not a stuffy courtier. She even kicked her feet just a little, flexing and bending, before tucking them back beneath the bench. 

"Goodness, I didn't realize how nice it would be to be able to admit to someone that I enjoy such works. I know such works are not considered 'proper' but it does make for a nice escape. Have you read "*Confessions of a Courtesan"*? I have not found a copy yet but have heard it's quite... Exhilarating." She gave Kita a knowing wink.

||
Betty
Kita made a dismissive gesture, but some pride was evident in her expression. "The task is not so difficult when it is enjoyable. I only hope to do it justice through my service there."

She stretched back against the side of the onsen, draping her arms along the edge. Her expression turned somewhat more thoughtful. 
"It may not be 'proper' but I do wonder if they would be quite so popular if they weren't. I'm glad to be able to ease your mind in that regard Bayushi-san."
The easy smile returned to her face and she cocked her head to the side a bit at the question.
"I will admit I am not familiar with *Confessions of a Courtesan*. I will have to keep watch for a copy, as a special request for an undisclosed friend, of course."
Margaret
"I am sure the library and archives are better places for your management, Asako-san." 

She propped her elbows onto her knees, dropping her chin into her hands. Hardly a dignified pose, but she didn't care. It had been a long day, and this was nice, just being able to chat. She continued to smile. Smiling was so easy when one was genuinely happy.

"You are no doubt correct about their popularity. We all need escapes, don't we? And you should read *Confessions of a Courtesan*, should it happen to make its way to your hands. You know, for archival purposes." She grinned playfully. 

"With summer coming, we will definitely have to make a date of trying *Aisu* Together. You know they make a flavor called 'mint choco'chip?' It was a strange green color with dark pieces that looked either like tiny rocks or little bits of bark. My yojimbo says it is absolutely delicious though. Can you imagine?"

||
Betty
Kita couldn't help a giggle as the little scorpion continued to make herself more and more comfortable. It had been a long time since she had had an enjoyable girl-talk such as this had turned out to be. 

For now she made a show of sitting up straight and sticking out her chin. Speaking in a right proper tone she responded,
"I'm sure I'll be making some acquisitions of new books in the future, Bayushi-san. I will see what I can do about your request."

Aisu brought up again, she knit her eyebrows together, trying to make sense of the words Kotori spoke. 
"Mint I know, and that it's edible. But Choco'chip that tastes like rocks? I may pass on that. Do they have others?"


||
Margaret
"I don't think it *Tastes* Like rocks, only that it *Looks* Like rocks." Another giggle, chin still propped in her hands."

"I had a flavor called vanilla, but there was also matcha flavor, and one with red beans. But tell me, what are some other things you enjoy, Asako-san? You mentioned both reading and poetry. Do you like theatre, by chance? Ikebana? Origami?" Kotori prattled off a list of options and questions both, eager to know more. She seemed to realize how rudely her questions could be perceived, so she straightened up then.

"We seem to have much in common. Please forgive me if I am... Perhaps overly enthused." 

||
Betty
She was unconvinced, not that it mattered, but if Kotori enjoyed it, it may be worth a try, and besides, the others would be an option. As the weather continued to warm, it sounded like a refreshing outing to come. 

"Very well, I'll take your word for it until we have a chance to plan our visit."

Kita's expression returned to a relaxed smile that became quite amused as Kotori's excitement got the better of her.
"Please, don't apologize. There is no need. I find myself prattling on very much the same way when I get excited about something."

"I do enjoy the theater, and hear there are some talented presentations here. And I haven't had much call for it before; but my position here seems to call for some shopping here and there, and I have found those errands pleasant. I appreciate flowers, but have no knack for the arrangements."

She shrugged a little at this, showing little concern for the lack.

"Now origami? I have mixed feelings. I can do the basic pieces, I don't find the folds too difficult, but the paper could be used for so many other tasks. The practical side of me generally takes away any enjoyment that it would bring. But what about you? Which of those, or other hobbies do you enjoy?"

||
Margaret
Kotori instantly relaxed again. She had no way of knowing if others found the Phoenix's presence so comfortable, but she hoped so. The city would be a better place if more people could find solace in the company of others. 

"I am quite a fan of theatre, especially kabuki! The music always interests me, of course, but I also love the costumes and dancing. Oh, and the renjishi, when they grab their hair swing their heads about! It seems like they would get awfully dizzy doing that, but I suppose they don't. Or are just used to it." Here, she momentarily took two locks of her own hair that framed her face. "Noh is excellent as well, but to be truthful, Asako-san, I think kabuki is much more exciting."

She resumed her slouching, comfortable posture, smiling still. "I do love flowers, whether they are artfully arranged or not. I admire that there can be such a wide variety of blossoms, and none are yet necessarily more beautiful than others. A bit like people, in my eyes."

Golden eyes looked heavenward, as though she were searching the sky for more information. "You know, I had never considered that aspect of origami before, but you raise an excellent point. How much paper must be used for one to become a master is a bit staggering to think of."

Her smile turned a bit cheeky as she again lowered her gaze to Kita's face. "And of course, shopping can be it's own kind of fun. Have you been to the bazaar yet?" 

||
Betty
"I agree, kabuki is probably my favorite overall. The elaborate costumes and music! I can see why it would appeal to you as well. Noh tends to be more common at home, well- back at Michita Yasumi anyway, with spiritual and historical themes."

Kita glanced away, caught for a moment in her own thoughts. Michita Yasumi was 'home' but even as she had said it, it didn't feel quite so true any more. She was setting down roots here, and hoped it would weather whatever the future brought. 

She looked back to the little scorpion, "I will have to ask you for a tour of the garden and its flowers some time. I'm sure the variety here is impressive, all different as you say."

"I have yet to venture to the bazaar myself, or any place outside the city proper. You have been there? What kind of lovely and handsome things did you find?"

Curiosity showed in her face, along with, was it concern or envy? Kotori was a beautiful young woman, exploring places that, while safe in concept, may not be most welcoming to ones of their clan to wander alone.
Margaret
"Perhaps sometime we might attend a Noh performance together as well. Then you can explain the finer points to me which I am sure will have gone clear over my head." 

Honestly, her cheeks were beginning to ache from the amount of smiling she'd done since her conversation with Kita began, but it was a wonderful pain. A smile had barely left her face at all.

"I would be delighted to show you the gardens. Oh! And the menagerie, too! Did you know we have a camel?" She clapped in delight. "And we have another creature named Gurume who... I don't know the proper name, but the keepers tell me he is a giant eater of ants. He has a great long nose and a big sweeping tail, and the keepers tell me he enjoys belly rubs." 

Who *Didn't* Enjoy discussing animals? Animals, even the most dangerous of them, were ultimately innocent. They merely followed instinct, without cruelty.

"The bazaar is *Amazing!* On my first visit there, there was an acrobat troupe that was most impressive! I dare say they could rival some of our own Shosuro performers with their skills. I also encountered a Unicorn there, a tiny thing, and she was kind enough to show me around. There is so much to see I think it would take days to visit every stall." A little color flushed to her cheeks as she thought of her encounter with Takeda, in which he taught her to play shah. He certainly was handsome, but that surely couldn't have been what Kita meant. 

"I am far from an expert on the place, but I would be glad to go with you, if you ever so choose. There were a number of stalls selling books, if I remember. And oh, *The food!* So many exotic things!" 

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