Steve
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*After having spent the first few days settling into an inn within the city and making themselves presentable it had come time for Mirumoto Katsumi to pay her respects to her Ambassador and the Dragon Embassy. There was of course... Only one minor issue. Finding it. The other clans Embassy's were rather large or at least well marked, but short of hunting down and stalking one of their clansmen back to the place Katsumi had yet to locate the actual building in question they were searching for. That and introducing oneself by following a fellow clansmen like one would a deer did not strike the Magistrate as an appropriate and polite first encounter.*

*Thus the Dragon Magistrate had relegated themselves to wandering through the nicer, but more subdued districts on the city on the off chance their clan Embassy was tucked amongst them. It seemed a very* ***Dragon*** *Thing for her clan to do to have their building away from everything else. As carefully flicking a bit of dust off their formal kimono Katsumi narrowed her brows eyes sweeping over the street as they dallied for a moment in the shade of a nearby tree. The Dragon clan and Murimoto mon displayed proudly upon their back and the breast of their Kimono.*
Mary
Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto had made his way through the city, escorted by three Yoriki as he often conducted patrols of various neighborhoods. This was his way of checking whether or not the subordinates beneath him in certain areas were really doing their jobs, and an excuse for himself to get out. The scorpion wore his full mask, having the veil completely covering one's face. You see the Magistrate had a notable presence, casting a rather large shadow as he stood six foot two. Dwarfing the other men accompanying him in comparison. It made you question who was protecting who, one's preference would be to walk alone, but upholding an appearance was important! 

"Greetings, I'm Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto. You seem in need of assistance, might I be of some aid?" 

He spoke to the smaller figure that stood out of place, letting his curiosity take control. Yuto would have bowed to the woman, based on her appearance and colors, one believed not only were they new to the city, but clearly of another clan. The scorpion himself wore a red Kimono and Haori, with a black hakama. His dark long hair was slicked back into a ponytail. Having his Daisho tucked in the Obi, partially covered by the Haori. 

"Have you eaten rice today?"

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Steve
*The Dragon Magistrate would glance up lifting a hand to brush a few crimson strands of hair back and away from her face as she turned towards the approaching Scorpion and his entourage as she introduced himself,* "Greeting Bayushi-san I am Magistrate Mirumoto Katsumi of the Dragon Clan. I was in the midst of ascertaining the location of my Clan's Embassy here within Ryoko Owari Toshi, but it appears I have gotten turned around." *They explain introducing themselves as they offer a matching bow to the Scorpion Samurai. Dressed in a kimono of soft red covered by a long outer haori of rich forest green that complimented the woman's bright jade green eyes the foreign Magistrate cut a striking picture. Her own Daisho just barely visible amidst the volumes of formal silk that carefully swathed the Dragon's form.*

"I have eaten rice today, but I would not refuse the company of an honorable samurai such as yourself should my company you wish to keep. However, I would not wish to delay you from your duties should your task be urgent." *Katsumi murmured her gaze sliding carefully over his guards before it settled back upon the man himself as she offered him a small warm smile.*
Mary
Hearing her introduction, eyes widened beneath his mask. A pleasant surprise this was! One didn't have the pleasure of meeting a Dragon, feeling quite exhilarated to be in one's presence and offer service. Giving the fellow Magistrate a nod, he spoke. 

"It is an honor to meet you Mirumoto-sama, you must be new to the city. Your clan must have a warm welcome prepared for your arrival, it'd be no good if you were not there to be welcomed." 

Raising a hand he gestured for the Yoriki accompanying him to give them space, not wanting to crowd the dragon. He then waved for Katsumi to follow, hoping she would. 

"I cannot see a task more urgent than you arriving at your destination safely, I've learned the city quite well in my time here. You'll come to know it as well." 

Beginning to walk, he moved at a moderate pace. While he wasn't a snail the man certainly didn't rush, wanting to know all he could of this shining individual. It wasn't everyday you met someone new and interesting. 

"I hope the city has treated you fairly, it must be quite different from where you come from. I hear the Dragons are enlightened sages that have stepped down from the heavens to pass their values and wisdom. Your services will be greatly appreciated, that I am sure."

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Steve
*Katsumi had not expected the far more respectful address given they're similarity in rank, but found themselves nonetheless flattered as they incline their head in acceptance of his offer to walk with the fellow Magistrate. The way his guards parted hovering just shy of her person as if she was some ethereal minor kami that might disappear into thin air if they so much as brushed against her admittedly was as charming as it was amusing. Their demeanor telling of the fact that like elsewhere in Rokugan it was clear her clan had kept their distance from the rest of the city of Ryoko Owari Toshi.*

"You have my thanks for your assistance Bayushi-sama," *They murmur returning the same more formal respect he himself had shown. Their bright jade green eyes warming with gentle amusement at his questions as they consider their words with a suitably dragon like pause. It would not due to disappoint the man.*

"I have traveled the lands of my people and beyond, but I find there are few places like my home. Though that does not make them any less charming. The contrast between the bustling city and the quiet snow capped peaks of my homeland is indeed vast." *Katsumi agrees matching her pace with that of Yuto's and finding herself grateful that the man had slowed his steps to keep time with her shorter stature. The petite magistrate looking like a kokeshi doll next to the towering Scorpion.*

"As for my clan, It is said that within the Dragon's lands there are a hundred mountains, a thousand paths, but only one sky to look upon from such great peaks. To each the steps to enlightenment are as varied as the snowflakes that pile high in winter and it is my humble opinion that my path is long and winding yet upon my journey." *The Magistrate confided with a smile soft and demure.*

"But this one regardless of the journey will strive to serve Rokugan and it's people with her utmost sincerity." *She adds before carefully turning the topic away from her own person,* "Is there any wisdom you yourself Bayushi-sama could impart in regards to the city as one who has grown to know it's streets? I am interested in what you would advise and in what you would recommend."
Mary
There was a certain weirdness to being addressed as Bayushi-San and sama, but Yuto couldn't deny it felt pretty warm too. Typically he was addressed as Yuto all his life until the Rokugo became an official clan, the Magistrate was more than happy to climb the ranks. Though it did come with its issues of reevaluating one's self worth and etiquette. Hearing the difference of where she came from compared to the city was indeed fascinating, one couldn't help but let their imagination run. 

"I hope this Dragon that has descended from the Mountain find their time in the city pleasurable. Maybe they will find something to bring with them when they ascend once more." 

When she asked him for his wisdom, the Rokugo tilted their head to the side. Pondering a great question, wisdom came in many forms. It was something everyone had but not enough of, spending their lives learning only to find they still lack it. Bringing a hand to rest on the man's chin, he thought deeply about it. 

"Hmm, well the first thing you should know is The Golden Koi restaurant has exquisite dishes, but the Jade Dragon has great diversity and quality of their Tea. If you're looking to go and be unbothered I suggest not too early or late into your day." 

While what he said wasn't unnecessarily untrue the man did almost bring himself to laugh. Knowing it wasn't the advice expected, but he wanted to joke with the dragon and establish a good impression. 

"I'm sorry, forgive me! But if I were to pass on some wisdom of this place, I would say be mindful. The city has many faces, you must always question if the face before you is a genuine one or merely a veil. Though I guess it's fairly ironic the man wearing a mask is telling you such." 

Yuto lifted up the mask he wore, revealing one's face as he presented a soft and warm smile. He had a long horizontal scar across the nose and cheeks, but it had healed well and didn't make him unbearable to behold. 

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Steve
*Yuto's answer startles a bright bell like laugh from the Dragon Magistrate and the subsequent grin she turns upon him is rueful and wry in it's humor,* "That certainly is worthy wisdom for as the army marches on it's stomach a Samurai would rather not face the morning without their tea." *They only half jest seeming to have not taken Yuto's more 'practical' advise as any sort of insult. Though as he speaks of the city's faces those sharp vivid jade eyes sharpen upon him. The woman weighing the truth of his words with the razor fine precision of a scalpel, but as they incline their head lips parting to speak it's clear that whatever they see in his advise it is worthy of their attention.*

"Give a man a mask and you shall know his true~" *Katsumi begins to speak only to falter in surprise as the Scorpion lifts his own mask to smile at her. The little Magistrate clearly taken aback as her cheeks color with a pretty blush that paints her skin with petal hues and leaves her nearly colliding with one of the guards in her distraction. At least until a quick bit of footwork leaves her narrowly dodging the collision as they shake their head a few strands of crimson hair spilling loose to frame their heart shaped face.* 

"Bayushi-sama I must admit I was under the impression those of the Scorpion clan never removed their masks. You've certainly given me quite the shock, though not an unwelcome one." *She gently chides.*
Mary
Happy he got a good reaction from the woman, he also let out a slight chuckle. A warm smile plastered on his face, truly enjoying the dragon's presence. The whole ordeal with her almost stumbling over his men was completely missed due to the Rokugo turning his head, looking forward to where they were going. Making sure they were on the right road. Though when she asked her question Yuto turned, seeing the fluster within the woman's expression. 

"I'd be unable to recommend such fine restaurants if I never took off my mask Mirumoto-sama." 

Speaking in a sarcastic tone once more, he would go on to further explain the mask situation. It was once something foreign to him as well. 

"It was strange to me as well at first. The Scorpion find protection, individuality, and privacy under the comforts of their mask. It is something sacred in our culture. When we Rokugo were first drafted as vassals under the Bayushi, it was such a foreign concept to us. But I've come to see the beauty in it." 

Continuing his walk the Magistrate continued to explain. Hoping he wasn't boring the woman. 

"A scorpion not wearing their mask is a sign of trust with who they're with, it can also symbolize familiarity. Or mere arrogance." 

Chuckling after he spoke the last part. Yuto would have glanced her way once more, still wearing the same smile. 

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Steve
*The little Dragon Magistrate could not help, but arch a brow at his comment,* "I think if the Scorpion had not perfected lifting their masks enough to eat without removing them then the entire clan would have long ago starved." *She points out as she gestures to himself and his men,* "And seeing I still have the pleasure of your clans company to this day I would say that must not be the case."

"That said it is a rather interesting tradition, but far be the Dragon clan to judge. My clan lives upon the mountains not within glass houses after all." *She adds with a wry shake of her head. No the clan famous for it's staunch individualism and for producing Bushi infamous for their unique quirks was certainly not one to be judging the strange customs of others.*

"But if your family is only recently joined the Bayushi then I could see how such a custom may not yet be a habit." *Katsumi muses.*
Mary
There was something really fun about their conversation, Yuto found someone appreciative of his jokes! That or she was already getting annoyed, but who knows. Regardless, the scorpion carried on, simply enjoying the dragon's company. 

"You are right, we Rokugo are very simplistic. Being behind in etiquette and tradition is a vast understatement, but I think we've managed to catch up. That or a barbarian escorting a sage will make quite the sight for some people." 

Humoring himself at this point he shook his head. Lay it on too hard and they'll find your quips to be irritating, so he took a different approach. Finding interest in her comment about residing in the mountains.

"It must be quite tranquil in the mountains, I hope the ambience of the city won't disturb you. If you ever require any service or assistance, from one Magistrate to another, Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto will always make himself open to aid." 

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Steve
"Are the Rokugo not of Rokugan?" *Katsumi inquires rather taken aback by the man's comment. For they could think of no other reason to refer to oneself, even jokingly, as a 'barbarian.' Then again the man had surprised her by even mentioning he was of a vassal family rather then simply assuming their ruling family name as was done outside of clan lands. Though given Ryoko Owari Toshi had once been a Scorpion city even if it now lay in Imperial hands perhaps would have caused utilizing such names to get the man in trouble.*

"And the mountains are indeed tranquil though the one I was raised on less so. It served as a training facility for many bushi or as host to rare events where a suitably visually striking location was needed for diplomatic events such as Winter court." *The Magistrate murmured saying nothing more then what was known from the last time her home had played host to such things.*

"But I thank you for your offer of assistance. My kinsmen are not always the most inclined to company, but should you find yourself needing to speak with a member of the Dragon Clan you may feel free to ask for me at the Embassy." *She offers with a small smile and incline of their head.*
Mary
The Rokugos had an interesting history in establishing themselves, not one he'd like to share so soon. First impressions were important, if he were to tell that tale his image might have been ruined in an instant. Eyes shifting their gaze as he thought of how to reply, but eventually he did. 

"Perhaps if you'd like sometime over tea I can tell you all about the Rokugo and their tale of becoming adopted by the Scorpion clan. Can't say it's a nice story but if you like excitement you may find some pleasure in it." 

That was the nicest way of putting it, Yuto continued walking. They were almost to the Embassy, it was quite the trip now that he thought about it, her explanation of the Dragons preference to solitude made all the more sense. Though her mention of a Bushi facility was quite fascinating. 

"I take it you are a Bushi then? Forgive me, I believed you were a Shugenja. Figured there was no other explanation for your glow, perhaps it must be due to your Clans residence just beneath the heavens. One so close to Amaterasu that they would be blessed with their grace. An honor to have met you indeed." 

This was his way of complimenting the woman's beauty without being too obvious or bashful. 

"We're almost there, hope I haven't bored you on our walk." 

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Steve
*Keen jade eyes observe Yuto's silence with thoughtful contemplation as Katsumi's gaze sweeps over him with a glance. The subtle tenseness to the man's shoulders and the way he now failed to meet her eyes a tell tale sign of avoidance and lies. A Scorpion no matter how blunt it's stinger or clumsy it's claws was still a Scorpion after all. Though given the man had called not only himself, but his family barbarians the Magistrate could guess the story would not be a pleasant one.* 

"If it is a tale you wish to tell then I shall take you up on such an invitation at another time," *The little Magistrate murmured as she offered Yuto a gentle and reassuring smile. Hoping to placate the man's misgivings.*

*Though his teasing compliment draws another soft laugh from the woman who cannot help, but ruefully shake her head,* "Do you say that to all the pretty women that you meet or just myself?" *Katsumi inquires with a wry tilt of her head before she lifts her hand and brushes her outer kimono back a touch to better reveal that she carries not merely a wakizashi to announce her station as one of the Samurai caste, but a katana as well.* 

"After all do Shugenja often carry a full daisho?" *She teases knowing well that such was uncommon amidst Shugenja; the Mirumoto however were all, but married to their blades.* 

"Though you need not worry. Your company has made a long walk very short." *The Magistrate adds with a soft if slightly coy smile as she inclines her head to Yuto and his men,* "I am certain I might well have been further delayed by mishaps without you and your guards assistance."
Mary
Having been given the okay to arrange a new meeting his smile grew even brighter. Finding the dragon to be more than great company, he hoped to be on good terms with her and by extension the woman's clan. She didn't pry in knowing the Rokugos story either, best that was explained after making a good impression. 

"Great! I'll send a letter sometime to discuss arrangements." 

After hearing her tease, did he say it to all pretty women or just her? Well, that was quite a question! Yuto let out a laugh, finding much amusement from it. 

"Maybe you'll find out if we encounter another pretty woman, though following after your gaze would be quite the challenge. I'm not sure if another could break the daze your eyes bestow." 

Another tease that slipped into a compliment, Yuto figured the playful banter was all in good taste between them. He of course meant nothing foul beneath the words. 

"I haven't met many Shugenja, I can't say whether they do or not. But it gladdens me to meet another Bushi, few things rival my love for the art of swords after all." 

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Steve
"Then I shall look forward to your letter." *Katsumi murmured as the group came to a stop within sight of the Dragon Clan Embassy. The building and it's location drawing a small frown from the Magistrate who for a moment wondered if perhaps Yuto had gotten the wrong location. At least until they noticed their clan mon upon the door. Resisting the urge to sigh she could not help, but find it rather like her clansmen to seek such isolation.*

"Then it seems we shall have to await and see how my gaze fairs in comparison with the future," *She jests tone light and polite with good humor as she turns to Yuto offering him and his men a bow.* 

"Thank you for escorting me this far Bayushi-san," *Katsumi murmur falling back on the polite, if slightly more familiar address after their journey,* "Here we must part ways. I hope the remainder of your day and that of your men's is fruitful."
Mary
Having arrived at their embassy, their time together was coming to an end. He gave one last visible smile before pulling his mask back down, Yuto of course forgot it was up in the first place. Losing himself while conversing with the dragon, but it wasn't an unpleasant experience. He gave a final bow before saying his goodbye. 

"It was our pleasure Mirumoto-sama." He returned the polite gesture, speaking in an upbeat tone. 

"I hope your clan has provided you with the warm welcome that is deserved. Farewell." 

The Yoriki accompanying them also gave one final bow, falling in line as the Magistrate turned and went the other way. Beneath his mask you couldn't see it, but the man's smile had never been brighter. 

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