Maria
It was definitely somewhat awkward to be heading to the Scorpion's territory in the city after everything that had happened with their alliance. Some might even call the endeavour foolhardy or dangerous. Nevertheless, Kana found herself approaching the Scorpion garden, eyes scanning about to see some sort of familiar face. 

Rumors were just that; rumors. Often they would be spread to serve some other purpose rather than just informing. At times though, there could be a seed of truth to them. Sometimes even the whole truth.

So, Kana decided to see if there was indeed any truth to some of the rumors she had been hearing of late.

||
Marguerite
With a bit of freetime the man had gotten away from everything, finding himself in the gardens. While peace and quiet was known to do some good, it brought no tranquility to the scorpion. As a matter of fact he laid flat within the grass, both arms cushioning his head. Beside him was a platter with a pot and a set of cups for tea, while his Daisho rested next to him in the grass. As for himself Rokugo wore an all black kimono with hakama pants, typically these were his clothes for practicing or just being comfortable. Seemed he was just stuck in his mind for now. 

Upon seeing a familiar face, he wanted to get the woman's attention but didn't feel like moving. He was too lazy and depressed, therefore he tossed the closest and smallest rock he could find. Having it stumble before her feet he'd have waved his arm to call her over. Not a word left his lips. 

If he weren't curious he'd have simply let her keep walking, but the current off duty magistrate had it in his nature to have questions and demand answers.. 

"Moshi-sama, what brings you here today?" 

He asked politely with a somewhat boring tone mixed in. 

||
Maria
Kana let out a small, surprised yelp at the rock that had found itself at her feet, taking a few second to clue in where it had come from. She took another few moments to make out where Yuto was in the grass, wondering why a tea set seemed to be on the ground in the middle of nowhere.

"Ah! Rokugo-sama! There you are!" She greeted, her voice warm and friendly as it often was. "Is all well with you?" She asked, approaching him slowly. "I was not quite expecting to see you on the ground." 

As she got closer, her smile turned into a look of concern as the noticed his flat affect. She did not want to press inappropriately, but she was concerned he seemed to be rather down.

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Marguerite
It was very obvious something was bothering the man, but of course he still had to show proper etiquette towards the woman. He thought nothing of her being here, nor did he decide to pry, in truth he was just bored and needed a distraction from his thoughts. 

"You can say I'm a very grounded man compared to many others. Would you like some tea?" 

Terrible pun but he didn't have energy to put effort into the joke. Yuto instead looked up towards the mantis while she asked her question, was he well? That was a very loaded question to him, why? 

"If being alive is the bare requirement for being well then I must say I meet the standards. How are you? You seem to be radiant as always, feel free to join me.." 

The man didn't move an inch or showed any signs of doing so. But he made sure to produce the energy for a conversation, though he was curious on what brought the mantis here. 

"Were you here to see me? Forgive me for not being so... Formal.."

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Maria
Kana managed a chuckle at the horrible pun. It could generously be called a groaner, but she did have a somewhat... Interesting sene of humor. Smoothing out her kimono beneath her, she knelt down beside Yuto. "If you are offering, I would certainly not say no to some tea, Rokugo-sama. Thank you very much for your offer." 

She maintained proper manners even as her worry only grew seeing him continue to lay on the ground listlessly. She considered for a moment whether or not he expected her to pour the tea herself, but waited a moment, not wanting to be presumptuous either way.

"Well, not specifically, but as it happens, I was looking for someone who I believe may be able to answer a question of mine." She offered a somewhat awkward smile, adjusting her obi. "It, well... It concerns some rumors that I have heard"

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Marguerite
Without moving, he took hold of the teapot and poured her a cup of tea, still laying flat thanks to the man's large wingspan. He was clearly giving as little energy as possible, only being rather enthusiastic when listening. Taking a breath his eyes shifted over to her, while he still laid down like a turtle the woman did strike some intrigue. Looking for answers to her rumors? 

"There are a lot of rumors in this city, I've come to learn most are spread for the benefit of whoever let them become rumors. Treading along the lines of one is dangerous, it's a good thing you're asking me and not someone else." 

Reassuring her of his honesty, even if he wanted to do anything, Yuto simply wasn't in the mood. Besides, from his few meetings he had grown fond of the mantis, anything he could help with would have been done. 

"What concerns you?"

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Maria
It was actually quite impressive how he was able to fill the cup of tea so precisely given he scarcely moved from his position. She graciously accepted the cup, taking a sip with both hands. She took a short breath to relax herself before beginning to speak.

"It's quite fortuitous that you're the one that I encountered, Rokugo-sama. I ah, actually wished to inquire about a mutual acquaintance of ours." She paused to take another sip of tea, closing her eyes as she did. "Bayushi Kaori-san." 

For now, she left that where it was, not wanting to risk any potential impropriety by coming right out with her meaning. Rather, she studied Rokugo's expression, attempting to gauge his reaction.

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Marguerite
After pouring the tea he shrugged, readjusting how he slept in the grass. The magistrate closed both eyes, having no reason to distrust Kana being beside him. She seemed like a good and honest woman, despite their clans alliance being lost he held on to the respect one always had. 

"Ah yes, what would you like to know about Turtle hater-sama, last time you were together you sought to heal the princesses wounds, yes? I would assume you two would meet afterward." 

Opening his eyes again he looked up, staring at the sky slightly hidden by the tree over their heads. The weather today was surprisingly good, despite feeling it was a rainy one. 

"As far as I know she's in good health. I assume you're worried with her medical condition.."

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Maria
*So... I will have to be direct then.*

Kana could feel her heart skip a beat at the mention of Kame-san. He was cute, and she was certain he was indeed a good turtle, but he was also a catalyst. A catalyst whose consequences were still not yet known.

"I assumed so as well. However, I've not seen so much as a trace of her since our meeting. That happens to be what the rumors I've heard concern as well."

She took one more deep breath, and one more sip of tea. There was nothing for it but to come out with it.

"I had heard she had ended up in trouble. Legal trouble, to be precise."

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Marguerite
Having a good idea on what she meant by rumors, the large man sat up to address her more attentively. Nodding as Kana spoke, he let out a breath. Staring out over the pond they sat before, not sure whether or not he wanted to give such details. Perhaps she'd keep it in confidence, maybe? 

"That surprises me, I thought your visits with Bayushi Kaori-sama were regular. Though I suppose they weren't after seeing her condition. Hmm.." 

Yuto wasn't sure if it was smart to tell her this, though the paperwork had already been filed at civil hall. Though it was discreet this information wasn't necessarily private, but oh well. 

"There was some legal trouble. Might I be selfish and ask a favor of you? If I go any further, I'd like you to keep this in confidence. That, and I'd like for you to finish tending to Lady Bayushi's injuries. If you don't mind." 

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Maria
Kana's gaze went downward, staring into her empty cup. Her voice became quieter as she spoke on. "So it is true, then. I cannot say our visits were regular; that night in the garden was my first time meeting with her. I enjoyed her company, however, as I did yours despite the, um... Awkwardness." She chuckled a bit nervously, her gaze remaining downward. She could feel heat rise to her cheeks as she spoke her next question.

"It, ah... When she left upset that night, that did not have anything to do with why she had gotten into trouble, did it?"

Kana immediately felt a fool for asking the question. On the surface it was absurd. Yet that turtle had stirred such a visceral response and caused such a kerfuffle, she couldn't entirely discount it. She at least needed to know for her own well being if her decision to playfully refer to him as Kame-san had cause ripples which had grown into tsunamis.

"I do promise that I will keep this between us, Rokugo-sama. As for additional treatment, I will continue if I am given leave to do so by Moshi-sama and whoever's care Bayushi-san remains in."

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Marguerite
Yuto had lost all face completely after she spoke, asking such a question. Bursting out into laughter as tears almost flooded his eyes, was she serious!? No, Kana must have been well groomed in the arts of stage comedy. Rolling away for a second, he calmed down and looked at the Magistrate. 

"I admit my love for my pet turtle is strong but to arrest the princess of our clan over it!? I'd be hanged within the same hour as the arrest, I didn't know you were so capable of making one laugh." 

Sitting up once more, he'd have gone to pour Kana and this time himself another cup of tea. Handing it back to her, he took a sip from his own before speaking. It seemed his down mood was being treated. 

"I must say your concern for the princess is moving, and please Moshi-sama, Rokugo-San or simply Yuto will suffice. Being addressed with -sama feels wrong. You do possess a higher status than I." 

He scooted away to lean against the tree, crossing his legs as he stared at the water. Not wondering how much to tell her, he was hoping she'd agree to simply treating the princess under the table. Though perhaps it was best, Kaori might snap if she saw a mantis anytime soon. 

"Bayushi-sama is alright. She faces an accusation, but I've been tasked with handling the investigation. With my judgement I feel this will wash over fairly quickly. I would go over details with you, but I'd need to know if you'd be willing to treat her under the table. It's been filed at civil hall but word hasn't gotten out much, I'd like to spare the princess of humiliation." 

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Maria
"N-no! I didn't mean that!" Kana replied, a blush engulfing her entire head. "I just mean, well. I had hoped t-that the incident didn't drive any wedges or anger antone..." She stammered, trying to protest, even as she accepted the cup of tea. She sighed, and took a sip of the tea, grateful the worst that happened was that she was laughed at. "I am glad I p-provided entertainment at least, Rokugo-san. Though I do think we are of the same status, yes? Both magistrates? Not that I mind less formal terms..."

She took another sip, her blush slowly fading as she centred herself. Her face had returned to its usual color by the time Yuto had begun discussing just what had happened. She did raise an eyebrow at his request, though. She didn't want to volunteer any information about what had happened the last time she had let her guard down in such dealings, but she also did not want to outright refuse with no explanation, either.

"I'm glad you're able to help with your situation, Rokugo-san. However... I am not certain I can work under the table in such a way. It is not that I don't want to help her, quite the opposite! It's simply a matter of I do not with to complicate the situation with my presence, especially if it is a delicate matter as you describe. I am certain Moshi-sama will give leave, if that is of any comfort!"

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Marguerite
Seeing her flustered reaction made it worth his while. In truth Yuto didn't take any offense to what she said, he was more humble than most Scorpion. Though there was a moment he paused, waiting for the mantis to catch their breath. Kana came off more genuine and adorable than he initially thought, she truly was related to Moshi Mai. 

"Forgive me I like to tease, I knew what you meant but the thought was funny. You'll find I don't hold grudges or hard feelings towards anyone, I'm a simple man." 

He sighed at her denying his request to heal the princess under the table, though he had partially expected such. It was a shame on him for even asking for it, but if she was certain Moshi Mai would approve it, he'd follow her lead. 

"I apologize for asking that request of you then, if you're so certain then I'll follow your lead. I'll be meeting with Moshi Mai-sama at your embassy to receive a statement for the case. If the ambassador sees fit for you to join, we can ask her together in good faith. Would that make it more comfortable for you?"

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Maria
"That is, um... Good to know. Thank you Rokugo-san." She bowed her head towards him. "Thank you as well for humoring my curiosity. Even as I acknowledge that it was rather ridiculous."

She finished her tea as she continued to listen... Only to then almost spit it out. "M-Moshi-sama needs to give a statement on the case?! She's involved?!" She looked genuinely shocked, her mouth hanging open slightly as her earrings dangled in the breeze. Suddenly, she felt infinitely more relieved in her decision to seek Mai's permission before continuing any further with Kaori. Fortunes only know what might have happened had she consorted and aided her if her superior was involved in the case somehow...

"I, um... Yes. Perhaps we should speak to her together than. Two birds with a, um, single arrow as the saying goes! Right!" She nodded emphatically. "When would you like to approach her, if I might ask?"

She paused a bit before speaking the next bit. "If I may ask as well, are you doing well, Rokugo-san?"

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Marguerite
Nodding at her thanks, Yuto was a humorous fellow whenever he wasn't absent of words. Though her reactions afterward were priceless, for what reason did the kami have to create someone this adorable? The Rokugo thought to himself, for a moment he was unable to deter his eyes from the Mantis' gaze. If he gave her all the details of this case Yuto would fear she'd suffer a heart attack! 

"Worry not, I'm confident this will all blow over soon. I'll be meeting her at your embassy tomorrow, of course you're welcome to join. If not I'll ask myself, if you're so confident in Moshi Mai-sama giving leave I won't put such a burden on you." 

Not wanting to put any more weight on her, he smiled. Though there was a certain curiosity to Kanas next question, asking if he were well? 

"Am I well? You seemed ready to panic just a second ago!" 

The scorpion chuckled before proceeding. 

"Physically I am well, my struggles are all journeys within the mind. Sometimes the weight of my thoughts is too much to bear, a blessing and a curse it is.." 

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Maria
"Well, no! I've been in my share of difficult situations," She replied, insistent. "It's simply that this is yet another rather large revelation." She met Yuto's gaze, though somewhat oblivious to the thoughts behind it Firstly that the rumors of Bayushi-san are true, and then to know that the ambassador is involved somehow... While I do not doubt your judgement if you say this is a matter that can be cleared up easily, Perhaps I might even be able to facilitate it, and approach Moshi-sama about the issue before your conversation."

She couldn't deny there was somewhat of a selfish motivation there. She was indeed very curious what had occurred. She was also prepared for the possibility that what had happened might well required *Her* To act. She needed to know exactly what we needed of her from her clan.

Her expression did soften as Yuto spoke of his troubles. She leaned in somewhat, offering a sympathetic look. "What manner of thoughts are these, Rokugo-san? Is it just concern for Bayushi-san?"

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Marguerite
"I must say Moshi-sama, your persistence in putting your hand in this situation is admirable, but also concerning... I take it you and Bayushi Kaori-sama share a very close friendship, otherwise one wouldn't expect you to show such care over this particular matter. While it's not private, I take the delicacy that is this case very seriously." 

Turning his body to face her, legs still crossed. The magistrate set his tea aside and hunched forward, getting a better look to see her intentions. Something was rather suspicious, even though he couldn't put his finger as to why. 

"Before we explore the madness that is my mind, tell me. What compels you to be involved in such a matter?"

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Maria
"With respect, Rokugo-san, you did ask me to continue to treat Bayushi-san through the matter. I absolutely appreciate the respect you wish to give to her, and your loyalty to your clan is admirable. That said, given her situation, and the fact that my clan is involved, I do think it behooves me to know what the situation is if I am going to continue involvement. It reflects on both myself and my clan."

Kana met his gaze, making note of the change in the way he looked at her. She sat up a little bit straighter, her muscles a little bit less relaxed. "The suggestion that we both speak to Moshi-sama was your own, as well. Have you reconsidered?"

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Marguerite
Keeping a straight face as he stared through the woman, he did so in order to see whether or not she was lying. Regardless if she was or not nothing stated by the mantis wasn't factual, therefore he couldn't shut her out of the situation. His eyes relaxed, an expression once more returning to its bored self like before. Yuto fell back down into the grass, staring up into the sky. 

"Alright I give. You know I'm surprised you came to consult me despite the warrant being placed on her arrest, do you go to civil hall often? Lots of information to be learned there from gossip alone." 

Taking a deep breath he continued. 

"I don't know, she broke into the mantis embassy but was somehow an invited guest, don't know how that correlates. Uh, I don't know, shared a dinner then tried to kill somebody? ~~must've got her drinking~~ I don't know it'll all be figured out."

One could hear the frustration in the Magistrates voice, this case was an irritating headache filled with different crap to analyze. 

"I'll give you the paperwork later I'm too discombobulated with everything in front of me."

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Maria
Kana's eyes widened as she took in the information, pushing aside all worried of Kaori and Yuto. "*This* Is what Bayushi-san has been accused of?" Her expression has lost all sense of warmth now. "Those indeed are serious allegations. I can understand why you wished discretion." 

She fought the urge to get up and leave immediately. She had been disgusted that she would show anyone who would treat her clan in a way the kindness that she had. Yet... She closed her eyes a moment, and took a breath. "Who is she alleged to have attempted to kill? As this surely must be a misunderstanding."

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Marguerite
Her change in expression and stance were expected, hence why he hoped to not share too many details. Though it sounded bad, there were loopholes to these accusations, therefore Yuto spoke. 

"You are right to feel the way you do, I would not harbor ill feelings if you did not want to assist Kaori with her injuries after hearing such an allegation. But I would implore you to hear my thesis." 

Sitting back up from his lazy position, he scooted over towards the pond. Taking a rock to skip it across the water as one relied upon the sounds to collect their thoughts. 

"If Kaori had in fact done these things, your Ambassador would have filed an order for the Princesses arrest, or would have at least issued you yes? I had been given the order discreetly at civil hall, with the warrant commissioned by Soshi Junichi-sama. Such accusations come not from the victims of said crime, but a man completely detached." 

Turning back to her, the Rokugo possessed a soft expression. Hoping she could provide some clarity to the situation. 

"Has the sense in this case evaded me, or is there simply none present to be found? I would value your thoughts."

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Maria
Kana listened intently to what Yuto said next. While it stood out to her that he did not give the name of who she was alleged to have made an attempt on the life of, she couldn't deny that there was at least something worth thinking about in what he said. Mai wasn't exactly the type to take such behavior lying down, after all.

Then she heard Junichi's name. She bit her tongue and held herself back from making a face.

"This is... A great deal to take in, Rokugo-san. Are you suggesting to me that you believe that your own ambassador has attempted to levy false accusations against a clan mate? I want to be absolutely certain I have the meaning of what you suggest."

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Marguerite
"I'm not suggesting anything, merely pointing out facts that raise questions. Until I can answer them I cannot make a proper judgement. Seeing that I have trusted you with this information, I hope we can keep our theories between us.." 

Giving her another stern look, this thinking was very dangerous. If they were going to continue, the scorpion needed to be sure the shugenja would keep this information in confidence. He hadn't made a decision on what to do with the current information, but a second opinion would be appreciated. 

"If you were in my position, how would you proceed?"

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Maria
Kana nodded. "Of course, Rokugo-san. I understand the need for discretion here, with such a delicate situation, and the stakes being what they are." She bowed her head towards him. 

She then considered his next question, and the danger in giving any sort of response to it. Even to refuse to answer it. She needed to choose her next words carefully.

"What I think, Rokugo-san, is that whatever theory one pursues, they must ensure that they have the truth of the matter in mind before anything else. They must also ensure that they do not bring dishonor to themselves or their clan inadvertantly; when the time comes to make one's case, the evidence must be impeccable, and beyond reproach."

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Marguerite
Having her agreed to discretion, a certain wave of relief washed over him. Not wanting anything to spill due to his lack of prudence, therefore he showed appreciation.

"I thank you for keeping what we've spoken in confidence. It's my intention to get the truth and nothing but." 

Hearing her answer his next question, the two could easily agree on such. Simply nodding his head in response, the scorpion went to pour the two another cup of tea. That was until realizing the pot had been drunk dry! Huffing a breath, his eyes peaked up toward the Mantis. She was a Shugenja wasn't she? 

"You... Wouldn't happen to have a spell that makes tea would you?" 

He inquired, and if she thought he was joking she'd notice he kept the same look plastered on his face. Yuto didn't know what the limits Shugenja had on their abilities. 

"But anyway! I'll be addressing Moshi Mai-sama for a statement, once I have the truth of what happened I'll be able to deduce the intentions behind such an allegation."

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Maria
Kana listened carefully to Yuto, leaning forward a bit. He appeared sincere, that much as certain. She wasn't ready to completely dismiss other possibilities, but it did seem consistent with what the knew of him. She did chuckle a bit at the mention of tea running out, however.

"Well, I could invoke the water Kami to cause rain to fall in the pot. And I could invoke the fire Kami to allow me to heat it. But I fear you would be better off making a new pot on your own. Conjuring something from nothing is... Not typical, allow me to say." 

"When you speak to Moshi-sama... What does she know of what you've told me here?"

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Marguerite
An expression of disappointment came over the scorpion, he COULD have made another pot of tea, but that was a lot of walking. Seeing as Yuto wasn't the most energetic today, he decided it best to simply be satisfied with what he had. 

"Seeing as she didn't submit the warrant and my Ambassador did, I suspect he had someone give him information of what transpired. I suspect it to be Moshi-sama who did so, though I can't imagine why. It's likely the truth will be revealed once I speak to her." 

Standing up the Samurai would collect his daisho, tucking them within his Obi as he grabbed the Haori hanging off the branch in the distance. Afterward the Samurai took the set of cups and teapot, there was much to do.. 

"I've enjoyed your company Moshi Kana-sama, though I must prepare for my visit to your embassy. There isn't much else we can do besides speculate until I'm given the answers. Though I wish to ask once more, would you be willing to tend Kaoris injuries if your Ambassador gives the approval? I'd appreciate your help."

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Maria
"Well... If it has turned out that Bayushi-san made an attempt on the life of another Mantis, then I can see why she would provide such information to Soshi-*Sama*." She replied. "Yet... If Moshi-sama knew about the attempt, and you suggest she invited Bayushi-san as a guest, she would have been will within her rights to have slain her then and there, if she acted as an assassin."

Kana stood up, starting to pace. She fiddles a bit with her obi as her mind attempted to fit the pieces of the puzzle together. "There must have been some way for your ambassador to learn what had happened. The answer to that question seems to depend on what Moshi-sama knew about her incursion..."

"Ah, but my apologies, Rokugo-san. I appear to be getting somewhat animated. I know you have your meeting approaching, but would you do me the honor of allowing me to meditate for a time here so that I may soothe my nerves?" She smiled at him. "I would also be more than happy to continue my therapy with Bayushi-san with Moshi-sama's approval. As I'm sure her approval would not be given if anything untoward occurred."

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Marguerite
Now she was thinking like him, finally putting the pieces that didn't fit together. Yuto smiled, it was a good thing to know he wasn't just skeptical or crazy. Taking a breath, he was glad to know she was willing to continue the princesses treatments. Hoping no animosity would come from the accusations, yet he felt Kana was a benevolent woman. 

"You are welcome to Meditate, I assure you there's no better place to do so. Might I join you for a few minutes to clear my head before the meeting? I've never shared a session with a Shugenja, it would be my honor." 

He inquired, rather eager to hear the woman's response. There was a certain curiosity, wondering if she had different methods of meditating due to her beliefs. It was a fascinating thought. 

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Maria
"Ah, of course, Rokugo-san! When I meditate, I more try to quietly centre myself in my environment, considering the nature about me, the feel of their air, the rustling of leaves... I try to become more attuned, if that makes sense." She sat back down once more, sitting cross legged. 

"Of course, if you have a prayer or method of your own you prefer, I certainly do welcome it. I hope all this talk hasn't made you more anxious for your meeting..."

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Marguerite
Hearing her explain the ways of meditation, he listened closely. Setting the tea set down along with his Daisho, the Samurai would join the Shugenja in her session. Yuto didn't spend much time meditating, when he did, it was only on the Bushi virtues. He was a simplistic man who focused on the things in front of him, hence making spellcraft such a foreign concept and impossibility. 

"Nothing meditation won't fix, I believe I'll try it your way. It's different from my usual method, I'm eager to see its effects." 

He'd have mimicked Kanas meditation position if she had a specific or special trick, using her words as a guide to connect to the world around him. It must have been a whole other experience when she did it, one capable of invoking the Kamis powers was surely meant to be treated with respect.. 

And with that Yuto fell asleep. 

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