Michael
"Why am I spending money on this again?" Kazuko asked her servant, a stack of silks sitting on the desk before her. She was annoyed, more so than usual, and wasn't being too discreet about it within the privacy of her offices.

Fuyuko chuckled as she carefully folded the silks into a neat bundle. Whenever her lady was angry it was a terrible fury to face, but annoyance? It usually was a mask for her insecurities. Ironically she found the best way to calm her was to goad her into a better mood. "Well, first off this is your nicest outfit a fancy dinner, and you haven't been taking care of it nearly well enough. Second, you've lost weight since you last wore it."

"Are you saying I was fat before?" Kazuko's eyebrow quirked. It seemed the game was working, chipping through the layers of frustration.

"Well, I'm saying you're skinnier now, probably because you don't let my husband cook for you as often." Fuyuko did not meet Kazuko's gaze, but her smile widened. The bundle adequately arranged, she moved to one of the shelves to secure a paper and writing supplies. "Third, I hear Moshi-sama is quite the looker. Maybe if you impress her you can finally get l—"

"Not. Another. Word." Kazuko growled. The nerve of her, sometimes. One of these days Fuyuko was going to say the wrong thing to the wrong person and it would not end well. She briefly considered she should do more to discipline the woman's massive and constant breaches of etiquette with her. Though, the last time she tried to pull something like that Fuyuko got "Ill" For two weeks, forcing Kazuko to walk around growling like an angry war dog the whole time.

"I'm just saying, it's been a long time since you've relieved some tension, and . . . I'll shut up about that." The deadly glare from her lady was enough for Fuyuko to drop the subject this time. It was brought up frequently: whenever Makoto visited, when Kazuko met with Zenmai, and any other time she could Fuyuko encouraged her lady to *Unwind*. Unfortunately she rarely listened. In this case, the servant had additional motivation to encourage the friendliest of ties with the Mantis. After all, it was a ronin under their employ who captured the heart of Masanori so completely. Maybe if the two clans were more closely aligned it would dampen the explosion from Kazuko when that came to light. "Regardless, I have the measurements here and will take this to be altered to fit you better."

The Utaku grunted. She supposed getting her kimono refitted wasn't the *Worst* Expenditure of funds, especially as the Ambassador. It was certainly less egregious than the amount that ronin spent on food. Still, after the kimono there was the matter of who to invite, what was the proper decorum to display, if she should prepare any kind of speech or entertainment . . . The list went on. At least she could rest assured of the fact the Mantis were no doubt scrambling to figure out how to handle her translator.

"Utaku-sama," Hisa opened the door, bowing to the floor. The little girl's manners had improved drastically recently, and none could seem to figure out why. "A guest has arrived, Yasuki, Yasuki . . . Um, Umeboshi I think."

"I highly doubt our guest's name is 'pickled plum,' Hisa-chan. Please, show them in." Kazuko sighed. She was not expecting visitors today of all days. Still, she could not simply send him away, especially since she had not arranged to visit the Crab in person yet. Turning them away was not an option.

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Mabel
Upon hearing the call for his entrance, Yasuki Umeo straightened his posture, and briefly checked his appearance, smoothing his neat robes and ensuring his jade pendant was prominent. He stepped into the room, his stride confident, though not overly so; it was the measured pace of a man used to navigating the intricate web of courtly politics.

As he entered the room, his keen gaze first fell on the woman in charge - Utaku Kazuko, a figure of notable reputation. His eyes then moved briefly to survey the others present, taking in the intricately decorated office and the neatly folded silks on the table, noting the signs of preparation for some significant event. His mind already started forming hypotheses, but he kept them at bay for now, choosing instead to focus on the present.

He bowed deeply, a gesture of respect to the Utaku-sama. "Good day, Utaku Kazuko-sama," He began, his voice steady and respectful. "I am Yasuki Umeo," He added, raising his gaze to meet Kazuko's. He noticed her annoyance, tension evident in her posture, and wondered if he was the cause. He knew this meeting might not be as straightforward as he'd hoped. But he was not one to be easily dissuaded.

"I apologize that my visit might have caught you by surprise," He continued, maintaining his courteous demeanor. "However, as a diplomat for the Crab, I felt it appropriate for me to introduce myself to the various Ambassadors. I have brought an insignificant gift to repay you for gifting me your time." With this, he pulls a large grapefruit from within his robes. "This bitter scarlet fruit is both bracing and flavorful. I find them to be delightful as a morning meal, especially if they have been chilled by the cold morning waters of the river first."

Umeo hoped his words would resonate with the Unicorn ambassador. As he stood there, waiting for the usual song and dance of gift-giving, he mentally prepared himself for the challenge ahead. He knew well that diplomacy was a delicate art, requiring not only the right words but also the understanding of the subtle cues and unspoken languages of courtly etiquette. But this was a dance he had danced many times before, and he was ready to step onto this new stage.

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Michael
Kazuko bowed curtly as she took in the man who entered. He was in every way the Crane in Crab's clothing that she had been told the Yasuki were. This was not a bad thing; in fact Kazuko's meetings with Crane courtiers had been nothing but pleasant thus far, and it gave her hope for this one. Settling down behind, she gestured for him to sit before her desk before beginning to sign. "Yasuki Umeo-san, it is agreeable to meet you. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life."

The standard introduction concluded, the next part of the dance was up. The customary refusals given, the gift finally reluctantly received. It was a unique one. Perhaps it would give her more energy on one of those mornings she woke so drained of it. "I am afraid you caught me at a most busy time; had this been a scheduled visit I would have been in a position to display far more hospitality. Would you like some green or milk tea?"

Kazuko clearly expected the Yasuki was here for a reason more than simply a social call. Perhaps that she had not visited the Crab Embassy personally yet was seen as an offense, or this was more fallout from the failed marriage alliance between Ide Kenza and Hida Yasuko that would negatively affect their clan. The sooner the sting of this was out in the open, the better. "Please, Yasuki-san. How may we be of assistance to you today?"

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Mabel
With eyes that were dark and watchful, Umeo followed Fuyuko's translations with the utmost attention. An appreciative nod was given as he understood Utaku Kazuko's own struggles and trials. Hardship was a part of life for the Crab. Seeing someone from a different clan bearing their burdens with such dignity was commendable. "Milk tea would be wonderful, Utaku-sama. Your hospitality is much appreciated," He responded, maintaining a warmth in his tone. 

The weather-worn diplomat took in the exquisite detail of Kazuko's office, the neatly arranged silks, and the carefully written documents. A diplomat's work was never done. Yasuki Umeo straightened in his seat and felt the cooling weight of his jade pendant against his chest. He was not here to impose but to extend a hand. "I do hope you forgive the intrusion at such a busy time," He began, his voice steady and sincere, "I wished to introduce myself as a newly arrived diplomat of the Crab Clan and offer any assistance you could use."

He paused, his eyes meeting Kazuko's and reflecting a genuine empathy. "But I see I have arrived at a time of much activity. If there is any way I may be of assistance to ease the tasks of your day, you must only ask. I came here today to offer help, not to impose."

His words echoed in the room, a soft sincerity hanging in the air. His intentions were genuine, not cloaked in courtly manipulation or subtle power plays. Yasuki Umeo was there to offer help, to extend a hand of support, as a testament to the spirit of the Crab Clan.

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Michael
Could it really be that easy? Surely this Yasuki had some ulterior motive or goal to push. That is what courtiers did, at least in her mind. And yet everything he said and did felt genuine, without an underlying current of self-serving scheming. It was the Crab after all: after the Crane they were the only clan to have a consistently positive relationship with the Unicorn after their arrival. Even the Dark Moto incident did not sour their opinion for long. Maybe he really was here to help, as he said.

"Then as a newcomer to Ryoko Owari I bid you welcome, Yasuki-san. I hope your first impressions of the city have been pleasant at the least." The young girl would return with two cups of the salted milk tea along with a tray of fried dough. "It looks as if our kitchen provided some light refreshment as well. Please, help yourself to the boortsog."

She picked up one of the fried biscuits and bit into it, before washing it down with the tea. She had been working since early in the morning and forgot to eat breakfast, now Kazuko suffered the consequences. She sighed, eyes returning to meet Umeo's. "Well, if you offer to aid, then perhaps I can make use of your assistance. The Mantis have invited a delegation from our clan to join them for *Dinner*. While I hold nothing against the clan, I cannot help but feel there is an agenda I am missing, some hidden goal that they are banking on us not preparing for. It makes me uneasy."

The look of unease and dark foreboding on her face was clearly evident. However, there was more to the story. Though she would never admit it, there was another reason Kazuko felt uneasy about it all. She hadn't ever really been invited to a party. Of course there were plenty of functions she attended while younger especially in relation to her family's status, but this was nothing of the like. A legitimate night of relaxation and festivities felt too good to be true because she had never felt one in the first place.

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Mabel
Umeo observed each word and gesture, attuned to the undercurrent of unease worn by Kazuko. Expressing gratitude with a nod, he accepted the tray of boortsog, savoring the unique flavor of the deep-fried biscuit—a treat distinctive to the Unicorn. He took a measured sip of the salted milk tea, relishing in its robust richness and the subtle warmth it offered, a beacon of comfort within the uneasy ambiance.

"Ryoko Owari has proven itself quite intriguing, Utaku-sama," He responded, his gaze fleetingly wandering towards the window, his attention captured by the vibrant cityscape. "The city's vitality, a testament to its inhabitants' indomitable spirit and resilience."

Umeo refocused his attention on Kazuko, fully acknowledging the sincerity in her apprehensions. The Mantis were known for their unpredictability, often keeping their intentions under close guard. Deciphering their intrigues posed a formidable challenge for the unacquainted. Luckily for the trader, he knew them as well as he knew the Crab. "I understand your concerns about the Mantis's intentions," He nodded, his tone empathetic, "They can indeed be difficult to interpret. They have a reputation for brevity and directness that many find unnerving, and it has been said that they can be quite incautious when it comes to formality. I feel that you will enter a room full of people who are looking forward to your presence. They hope to be well prepared to show that there is much more to them than their reputations."

Umeo took a thoughtful sip from his cup, remembering a similar conversation earlier in the day with Moshi Mai-sama. "Perhaps, Ambassador Utaku Kazuko-sama," He continued, his voice steady, "An open mindset may serve you best in this event. Every gathering is layered with political maneuverings, yet sometimes a dinner can be just that — an opportunity to enjoy good company and forge stronger ties. You might find that the hosts would prefer for it to be the kind of dinner party where the guests challenge the hosts and each other to feats of sake-infused stamina."

Yasuki Umeo was not one to wear his emotions on his sleeve and his facial expressions were typically controlled and understated. The amused grin that he currently wore was a rare sight. "Of course, every action is carried by an agenda. The most effective ones are simple and straightforward. I have no hidden motives. I clearly stated my intention to create a dialogue with you, make a lasting impression, and extend my assistance. This is part of a conscious effort to stay within the considerations of several of the Ambassadors currently serving in Ryoko Owari Toshi."

Adjusting his blue kimono, embellished with tiny embroidered koi swimming up the sleeves, the Crab continued, "By doing so, perhaps you might find me a valuable asset in times of need. If I prove to be more helpful than disruptive and more amicable than irksome... Then you might welcome my presence here in the City of Green Walls."

Concluding his thought, he added, "As for your preparations, Utaku-sama, should you require any assistance - be it a sounding board for your thoughts or help in understanding Mantis customs - know that I stand ready. My experiences with the Mantis Clan are extensive."
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Michael
An open mindset. Kazuko remembered when she could approach every situation before her with such. The early days of the War of the Plains, when every Lion advance was exactly what it seemed and the battles were direct and bloody. Before the failing Lion supply chains led to the Ikoma Shadows taking a greater role in their strategy. Umeo's words had an appeal to them of simpler and better times. Her eyes wandered to the silks at the table.

"I appreciate your openness, Yasuki-sama. You are a credit to your clan and the long standing relationship our clans share. I have had the pleasure of working alongside the Hiruma who train in our lands, and have great respect for your clan and the opinions you hold." She took a sip of the tea, stopping to savor the taste. Her words were not soft, but a direct honesty could be heard within them. Kazuko was not known to often show emotion other than anger and respect, and this was clearly the latter. "Very well, an open mindset I will hold. As to Mantis customs I have two questions that come to mind. First, the matter of formality: are they ones to consider this an official diplomatic overture?

"I ask to ensure our delegation is appropriately comported and dressed. Of course if this was an official diplomatic event myself and those under my command would be obligated to dress accordingly, representing our clan thusly. However," She cast a sidelong glance at Fuyuko as she continued to sign, "Some believe this less official and thus recommend fine but non-courtly dress. What say you?"

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Mabel
His features softened as he listened to her. Her questions were valid, echoing concerns he himself would have in her place. Yet, he appreciated her willingness to accept his advice and to place some trust in him. His eyes followed hers to the silks on the table. "The Hiruma were honored to work alongside you, I am sure. Likewise, I have yet to meet an Ide whose company I did not enjoy. The Unicorn have certainly mastered the art of meeting new people and making new alliances." 

The dignified Crab nodded at her inquiry. "The Mantis are a unique blend of formality and informality, of respect and disregard for tradition. It's a balance they've cultivated over the years, born from the blending of the traditionalist Moshi, practical Kitsune, tenacious Tsururshi, and the unpredictable Yoritomo." He said, a hint of amusement in his voice. "As for the event," He continued, thoughtfully, "The Mantis often blur the line between official diplomatic overtures and more relaxed gatherings. If I were to hazard a guess based on my experiences with them, I would suggest a middle-ground approach. Attire that shows respect for the importance of the occasion, yet avoids the stringent formality of the courts. Displaying flexibility in one's attire, much like showing an open mindset, can often resonate well with the Mantis."

Umeo chuckled lightly as he added, "As for comportment, be prepared for an event that could be as full of surprises as a Mantis is unpredictable. They often favor vibrant and energetic encounters over strictly regimented diplomatic affairs. It can be disconcerting for those used to the more stately and restrained decorum of other courts, but I believe you will handle it with grace and aplomb, Ambassador Utaku Kazuko-sama."

As he concluded his advice, Umeo leaned back in his seat. Honeysuckle and wood smoke flavored the air around him as the muted light of the room reflected off his eyes. With the Mantis, one could never be too sure what lay ahead... But the Auditor held a bit of an advantage. "As I said a moment ago, I am no stranger to the Mantis. If the Ambassador desires it, I could quietly inquire in my fashion and dispatch a discrete letter providing you with your answer as certainty instead of supposition. I do not see any conflicts of interest there and would be most pleased to know that both your representatives and the Mantis hosts had an enjoyable evening. This town has had enough conflicts as of late."

"And your second question?"

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Michael
"I see." It was not at all too dissimilar to events the Unicorn would host with their allies. Dancing, fine food, and drink mingled seamlessly into the delicate dance of political intrigue played by many an Ide. At least so the stories went. Kazuko had never experienced one herself. Only on the eve before battle did she allow herself the opportunity to cut loose with those under her command, and courtly propriety was the last thing on any of their minds. "Thank you for your wisdom on this, Yasuki-san. No need to trouble yourself with inquiries with the Mantis. I believe this has provided me with the information required."

The second question was something she was more confident in, yet still wished to take the opportunity to receive confirmation on. Gesturing to a small wooden chest laid out on one of the shelves, Fuyuko would remove it from its resting place and lay it on the table. Opening it would reveal a delicate, organically branching sculpture the color of porcelain, with intricately designed gold filigree spiraling up each of the arms. "This is the gift I plan to provide the Mantis. It is a coral sculpture from people of the Far Sea my forebears reached at the apex of their journeys. It is the same coral that is native to the waters south of the Islands of Spice and Silk."

She closed the case, gently so as not to damage the item held within. Once it was safely stowed back onto the shelf, she returned her focus to the diplomat across from her. "I hope this conveys an impression of unity: just as the seas from opposite ends of the world are connected, so are their people. However my gifts have been accused of being too heavy handed. Is that the case this time?"

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Mabel
Yasuki Umeo nodded respectfully as the Ambassador decided against any further inquiries to the Mantis. He listened attentively to her interpreter as she moved on to the second question. The broad-shouldered diplomat observed the movements of Kazuko's hands as she 'spoke' through them. There were patterns in the movements. As Fuyuku's voice responded to the movements, certain repeatable patterns seemed to reproduce the same spoken words. Sometimes there were slight variations in meaning, likely derived from context. The potential of being capable of enjoying a silent conversation was not lost on the Auditor. His eyes followed her hand as she gestured toward a small wooden chest and they widened as she unveiled its contents. It was truly the crowning masterwork of an artisan's craft. 

"Heavy-handed, indeed," He started, studying the intricate gold filigree that spiraled up each arm of the sculpture. His hand itched to touch it and feel those delicate contours, but he understood the precious nature of the object. "But perfect. Its beauty is more than superficial. This object has journeyed the world and survived the turning of generations. The Far Sea, the ancestral journeys of the Unicorn, and the unity of seas – these are all profound concepts and their embodiment in such a piece is remarkable."

Thoughtfully stroking his goatee, the Crab turned his attention back to Kazuko, "Yet, your concerns are not entirely unfounded," He said gently. "The Mantis are a pragmatic people. While they appreciate the rich and the extravagant, they view the world through practical eyes." He paused for a moment, carefully choosing his next words. "I believe this is a gift that walks a fine line between aesthetic beauty and meaningful intent. It's elaborate, yes, but it also speaks of the shared spirit of exploration and a connection to the seas, themes the Mantis will certainly relate to."

Umeo smiled reassuringly at Kazuko. The subtle scents of spring wafted into the room. Mingling with the existing aroma of honeysuckle and wood smoke, they further enhanced the comforting atmosphere. "It might still be seen as heavy-handed by some. In this case, however, I feel that you have matched the intensity of your host's hospitality. I am sure that it will nicely complement the gift that the esteemed Mantis ambassador has planned. If presented with grace and a genuine spirit of friendship, I believe it can help create a stronger bond between the Unicorn and the Mantis." He paused, looking at her keenly. "And I believe the Ide would consider that the best application of diplomacy."

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Michael
The words of the Yasuki were exactly what Kazuko wanted to hear—which should have been a comfort. However the lingering doubt that the man before her was simply tailoring his words to fit her needs never quite disappeared. Surely that was merely her own doubts speaking though. Kazuko was fine with leaving that alone. What she was less agreeable toward was the gaze leveled constantly at her hands as she spoke.

"Then you believe it will be accepted well? Good. It would have been difficult to find time to change it. You speak of the Mantis' gift with the words of one who has observed it. Have you been to their Embassy recently? If so what can you tell me of their Ambassador?" She dropped her hands below the table. Fuyuko, standing behind, would still be able to see the signs, but without some sort of additional effort Umeo would lose sight of them.

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Mabel
The Crab diplomat quickly caught the meaning behind Kazuko's hands finding a new home. Yasuki Umeo's curiosity had been purely academic, a fascination for a language he did not speak. However, he respected the boundaries of others and would not wish to impose. Politely, he redirected his focus from her hands to her eyes, a silent apology for any unintended offense. If she did not want it noticed, she surely would not want it remarked upon. The trader's deep voice rumbled through the room, "I am certain, Ambassador Utaku Kazuko-sama, the Mantis will appreciate your offering. I have, indeed, been to the Mantis Embassy recently." 

Umeo's brow furrowed in contemplation as he recalled his recent encounter with the Mantis Ambassador. The faint traces of sea air that perpetually clung to her, the unwavering determination in her eyes, the energy that crackled around her - Moshi Mai was a force unto herself. She did not demand attention, she commanded it. "Moshi Mai-sama," He began, his tone warm, "Is much like the sea from which her clan hails. She possesses a boldness that's quintessentially Mantis. Beneath that audacious exterior, there's a shrewd intellect at work. The Moshi family holds tradition very highly. She was trained to speak to the storms and listen to Amaterasu."

The faint bustling of the city outside permeated the quiet room as Umeo paused, sipping his tea. The warm liquid filled the brief silence, offering a moment of respite in their discourse. "She was obviously happier as a Sea Captain and I can sympathize. However, it would be a mistake to only think of her as a blunt and crass sailor. She knows when to be direct and when to let the silence speak. As with the sea, the Mantis Ambassador can be as calm as a harbor at dawn or as tempestuous as a typhoon. Moshi-sama is no ordinary courtier. She holds a preference for plain speech over tangled diplomacy and the loyalties of her people extend beyond her title."

Umeo set his cup down, the soft clink resonating in the tranquillity of the room. "In your negotiations with her, remember that she can be as unpredictable as the sea. Offer those traditional courtesies that the priestess in her will anticipate, but also cut through the excessive verbiage that diplomats like myself often resort to. The sea captain in her will evaluate your command over your team, while the Ambassador will assess your sincerity."

"Ambassador Moshi Mai-sama seems dedicated to giving a good first impression and meeting you and your clan mates in person. I also believe that there might be a desire to explore mutually advantageous trade opportunities." He nodded at Kazuko, respect apparent in his gesture. His blue kimono rustled softly, punctuating the silence at the end of his advice.

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Michael
Umeo provided far more information than Kazuko was expecting. She was grateful for the honest appraisal of the Mantis Ambassador, and it was truly intriguing to learn. She did not seem at all too different in some ways to where the taisa found herself. Was she as easy to read as the Moshi? The thought was quickly brushed aside. There was no time to focus on that. Plain speech, commanding presence, sincerity. Yes, she could do that. No doubt the samurai accompanying her could as well.

"Thank you, Yasuki-san. You have given me much to consider, all of it useful and timely." She bowed curtly but sincerely, the formality and ice in her countenance softening slightly. If he was willing to facilitate such cooperation between clans, he was likely no threat. "However, I must say I have made myself a poor host. All I have done is ask of my guest. Allow me to address this, Yasuki-san, by telling me how *I* May be of service to *You*?"

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Mabel
The broad Crab nodded again. "As I've said, my primary purpose here is solving problems for the Crab. Some of those problems will be diplomatic or economic in nature, and others will involve applying the metered justice of one that knows that no market exists without a shadow... But no crop grows without the sun. However, I am not here today to seek assistance in those matters."

"I am instead here to ensure that if you hear my name spoken, you will already know of my character and purpose. I may need to request permission to move quickly within your areas of interest, or I may find matters that you'd prefer to deal with in-clan. By getting to know each other now, we will be able to complete our duties more efficiently later. Efficiency is something that I hold quite dear as a Crab... As our resources are too precious to lose to poor planning and execution."

With a broad hand gesture towards the city at large, "So you have, in fact, already been a patient and giving host. If you further require an impartial mediator or a good-natured meddler, you now know who to ask for." With a self-deprecating smile, the sea-worn diplomat offered a deep bow to the ambassador.

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Michael
Even if she did not entirely approve of the idea Umeo was presenting—it sounded as if the Crab was hoping to use this meeting as a bargaining chip to force Unicorn concessions later—Kazuko could acknowledge the desire for efficiency. That was an area the two clans shared ideology on. "Well, then, Yasuki-san, consider yourself met and your name known. The friendship between our two clans is longstanding and I hope we can build on that in the future. I will have to send word to schedule an audience at your Embassy.

"Although, perhaps after seeing your success here I should simply appear unannounced?" The faint hints of a smile played around her features. The Yasuki had done wonders to ease her displeasure with the day. It would be at least marginally easier to finish the concerns she still needed to handle. Unless the man had anything else to say, she would bow graciously in dismissal.

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Mabel
"Ambassador Utaku Kazuko-sama, you are more than welcome to pop in on me unannounced any time. These unexpected distractions can often make for pleasant diversions from the drudgery of diplomacy." He returns the Ambassador's bow. "As you say, our clans have been on friendly terms for a long time. Feel free to call upon my discretion any time you might need to lean on that friendship."

He took three steps backward before saying, "Until we meet again... May the fortunes smile on you." After that , he accept his dismissal and left quietly. The smell of honeysuckle resins and wood smoke lingered behind, a reminder of the solid presence that once stood there.

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