Marcella
*The most recent blunder on Takamori's behalf regarding the reputation he had underestimated at the Juniper Teahouse weighed heavy on the Dragon, though for opposite reasons than most might assume. Due to his lack of understanding of how bad the Teahouse was it was unlikely anyone in the group would want to try such lovely tea and sake!...On top of that kabuki theatre was likely to be a singular affair until amends were made luckily there was an ancient rite few samurai were aware of that mended all bridges, this ancient and powerful tradition crossed boundaries between peasant and samurai alike, and even the Emporer could be brought to smile by this token. What Takamori had in mind was a cultural property of Rokugan so vast that only certain henin was specialized in its preparation and yet all samurai clamored for it at one time or another, wars were fought over it, relationships crushed in lack of its proper education... Takamori of course spoke of... Food. Having been brought up in the mountains vegetables were a staple diet though there were times when he had been only able to secure " Mountain Tuna" Though he would likely never speak of that outside the mountains themselves. It had taken some time but he had managed to track down within the embassy genuine dumplings like those of his home in the Agasha lands. The dumplings were just as Takamori recalled from his time in Kyuden Agasha, packed with mushrooms, carrots, and other vegetation from the mountains, Takamori had made sure a small basket was packed full of them and stacked with 3 layers, there were few woes that food and good drink could not dissipate in the Dragons oh so humbled opinion.*

*He personally made the trip through the city streets lightly weaving between the inhabitants of the city before arriving at the Embassy, he tipped his jingasa up and looked up at the structure before giving a soft smile, at the unique structure of the Mantis clan. He had heard rumors in the mountains during campaigns to protect the borders of healers that had no equal within the clan, it had always been a goal of the Dragon to study under one and bring the knowledge back to the mountains but it was one he had yet to meet as of yet. He paid the proper respects at the door and made sure his katana was worn on the right-handed side so it could not be drawn easily before stepping into the Embassy and leaving the basket on the counter making sure that the attendants knew the dumplings were to be delivered to Yoritomo Takeya. This completed he began to leave the Embassy thinking it was best he checked on the arrival of his Yari and if it had arrived he might spend some time outside the city walls in meditation.*
Elizabeth
Kana was humming to herself as she was making to leave the embassy. Today actually had been fairly light in terms of work to be done at the building, which meant she could justify going out on patrol. Perhaps greet and check in on some of the merchants they had arrangements with. After all, it helped to assure them they weren't just seafaring thugs, as their reputation at times was, but people genuinely wanting to lend aid and make mutually beneficial investments.

As she started for the exit, though, she made note of a man bearing the mon of the Dragon.

*Odd... We've not have any recent dealings with them to my knowledge...*

Then she sniffed the air, and the aroma of vegetable dumplings filled her nostrils. She slowed her walk a bit at this; they were becoming one of her weaknesses, to be sure, and she was grateful her training regimen allowed her to indulge, and-

She had to remind herself they were likely not for her. Trying to push the scent out of her mind, she approached the Dragon and bowed. "Good day, Dragon-sama. Might I help you?"

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Marcella
*Takamori paused taken off guard by the sudden approach before smiling softly as he offered a gentle and respectful bow, a moment passed before he raised his head * " A meeting like this is as welcomed as the cooling winds of my homeland please forgive my uninvited arrival I was delivering a gift with accompanying apologies for an oversight on my behalf to one of your Clan, I am Agasha Takamori, may I request the honor of your name as well." *The Dragon's raised his hand slowly and removed his jingasa, the charms along his hat lightly jingled as he slid his hat free, his face had the seemings of youth though his eyes betrayed an aura of someone near his 30s, and his hair was raven black and a beard covered his face. It was not often Takamori met a Mantis, the mountains were far removed from the ocean and most of Takamori's adventures had taken place in forests or haunted lands where ships and sailors were far and few between, he studied the woman checking for any sign he might have unintentionally breached a social taboo not wishing to incur anymore ill fortune than he already had*
Elizabeth
"Ah... Well that is quite the greeting!" She chuckled a little bit. The woman was in her late twenties, sporting a shaved head and clad in an orange kimono with trim in the same green favored by her clan. There was a visible scar on her face right on the left corner on her face, but she still wore a gentle smile.

"Agasha-san... Your name sounds somewhat familiar. And you say you are here to apologize for an indiscretion? Might I-"

She stopped and the smile dropped from her face. She suddenly remembered where she had heard his name from.

"Ah... Yoritomo-san has explained the situation," She noted, somewhat flatly. "Might I ask what crossed your mind when you took one of our Samurai to an illegal operation? Does your ambassador know of your actions?"

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Marcella
*The sheer moment the words " Illegal operation " Crossed her lips the Dragon's face went blank as he tilted his head pondering for a moment *"....Illegal... Operation?..." *One second passed then two then three before realization dawned on the Dragon* "AH!!! I see so that's the situation!" *The Dragon gave a carefree smile and righted himself having finally reached the light of understanding* " No no that was the previous owner I am lead to believe the new owner has assured me of honest intentions to redeem the tea houses reputation, I had not realized the previous owner had given it such a scandalous reputation." *The Dragon bowed his head low in sheer apology as his dark hair fell in cascades along his face* " I am not sure if my ambassador knows, I do my best to not trouble him during his duties" *By this of course Takamori meant ' I do my best not to trouble him lest he find some errand or responsibility to put upon my shoulders.' But this seemed a better translation* " I humbly request your clan's forgiveness as I am new to Ryoko and was unaware of such a scandal I would never offer such a grievous insult willingly please accept the vegetable buns, a token of Kyoden Agasha cuisine as a token apology and a favor of me should you ever require the use of a Shugenja the fault is truly my own." *Takamori felt a pinge at the back of his mind noticing that several people seemed a little uneasy with this teahouse, perhaps he should inquire later about the full nature of the teahouse, but this felt like a quest for another time.*
Elizabeth
A number of thoughts crossed Kana's mind. Such as how Takeya would be able to make a judgement solely on the previous reputation if he had just arrived or why potentially discreditable conduct was seen as needless trouble for the ambassador. Still, despite all this, there was something earnest enough about the man that meant she didn't want to *Completely* Reject or needle him. Not to mention the offer of a favor was open enough it could very much come in use.

"Agasha-san," She began, smiling politely. "The gesture is most appreciated, and as a Daughter of Amaterasu, I've been taught of the importance of compassion. Aside from those descended from the heavens themselves, I would say there are none who have not stumbled at least somewhat in their life. However, I hope you will take this opportunity to be better informed of your surroundings and to think before you act, as your actions had the potential to not just shame yourself, but others as well." There was a kindness to her voice, but she spoke firmly as well. "While you must speak your apology to Yoritomo-san himself, and I can see to it your gesture is delivered to him, I appreciate your willingness to atone for your indiscretion. I will also keep in mind your offer of a favor, and there may come a time when we call upon it." Her posture relaxed somewhat. "If it please you, I can tell him that you wish to apologize in person, so you can arrange a meeting?"

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Marcella
*The Agash righted himsel seeing happy at the news of a chance for a formal apology* " Ah! That would be most appreciated I meant to apologize in person here buuuut it seems he is otherwise preocupied so I left the dumplings over there... I am not sure of your customs but I assume vegetables are acceptable." *The Dragon thought of asking her to elaborate on gestures the Mantis had shown him however a small part of Takamori thought this might be a wonder better left alone for now, he folded his hands in his haori and nodded his head * " Please make use of the favor whenever you wish, though I don't know cities all that well I take my responsibility as a Shugenja quite seriuosly... Though I should warn you" *The Agasha gave a some what bashful smile knowing the reputation of his family and how far off the marker he was from the rest of the Agasha* " I fear my talents lie in air and water kami instead of earth and fire... That said I have presided over many births and funerary rites and have counciled Daimyo in spiritual matters, if any of this is ever of use to you." *The Dragon beamed at the idea of arranging a formal apology, as this seemed in line with the original goal of the morning* " That would be ideal though... Perhaps you should all pick the meeting place I seem to be adrift in a city so large" * The Dragon smiled softly hinting to the Moshi " I attract trouble like nothing else, you should arrange so we can avoid further issue "* " I thank you for your forgivness and taking me at my word, I shall endeavor to look for clearer waters in the future."
Elizabeth
Kana looked over to the dumplings. She idly entertained the idea that surely Takeya wouldn't miss a couple, but ever dutiful, she restrained herself. As she listened, she found herself rather surprised; this man had given counsel to Daimyos? Stranger things had happened in Rokugan, though...

She bowed to him. "We will send a letter to arrange a meeting once the details have been worked out with Yoritomo-san. I have faith he would be willing to hear you out at the very least. When the time comes to call on that favor, I shall keep what you have said in mind. I am not certain what you think of the Mantis, but our Shugenja invoke more than just the Earth and the Fire kami."

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Marcella
*The Agasha smiled noticing her gaze linger for a moment* " That would be wonderful, perhaps I should consider asking you each for a list of places to avoid to evade such a blunder again." * Takamori paused for a moment before giving a small laugh, it was good natured rather than mocking* "I am confident you do, still when most think of the Agasha name the idea of flying boulders and gouts of fire come to mind, and I fear I am something of a black sheep amongst my family." *He stood and gestured toward the door offering the Mantis to follow him* " With the approval of the honored daughter of Amaterasu I would like to procure more dumplings... You know in case those go astray or in case some soul would like a batch as well, I am certain if I found them once it shouldn't be to hard to locate again if you would care to accompany me."
Elizabeth
Kana considered her next move carefully for a moment. After what had happened, she was entirely certain if she should trust an invitation anywhere from this fellow. At the same time, vegetable dumplings would be a rather nice change from pork, and she needed to get out and about if she was going to be patrolling. It might also offer a better opportunity to get to know Takamori a bit better, and make a better judgement regarding his character.

"Well, as it happens I was about to step out for my rounds, so I would be amenable to that. Please, lead the way, Agasha-san."

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Marcella
*The Dragon smiled and lead the way out pausing for a moment to look around the city, to gauge where he was before heading down the streets back toward the Dragon Embassy* " The city is so large I must confess it can be a tad disorienting at times I have had to have outside assistance to find my way recently." *He smiled turning his head to glance to the Mantis* " I have heard of the isles the mantis is said to sail from, I am sure it is as marvelous as this if the stories are to a fraction of truth." *The Agasha paused here and there when the Mantis needed to conduct her business in which he stood away far enough not to impede her but was able to come to her aid if needed, now and then he stopped to play kenmari with a group of children now and again when a pause was needed but otherwise he kept close to the Mantis if one had paid attention his katana sat on his right hip the entire time obviously leaving the Dragon in a difficult position to defend himself with the blade if needed. Once they reached the embassy the Dragon left the Mantis's side before returning a moment or so later with a familiar-looking basket radiating a rather familiar smell* " They are freshly made... I believe our attendants have grown to expect my visits.." *He gave a mischievous smile offering the basket up to the Mantis*
Elizabeth
"Ah, yes. The city is a bit of a maze at times. I know I needed some help when I first arrived! Of course now I'm fairly well acquainted with things," She spoke, weaving about the crowds. She wasn't on an active investigation, so she was fairly relaxed in her approach, more just keeping an eye about her, occasionally greeting merchants she often passed by.

"The isles are quite lovely, yes! While I consider myself more partial to the mountains than the isles, the sea air is rather nice! Should storms come, though, it can get quite treacherous. And wet. Especially at some of the less reputable teahouses," She joked with a snort. 

She raised an eyebrow when he stopped to play Kenmari with children; it was a bit odd to do so in the middle of their walk. That said, he was starting to seem more like the type who would genuinely not know what the Juniper Teahouse was, rather than someone legitimately attempting to bring dishonor to other Samurai.

"So, Agasha-san, what are the Dragon lands like? Assuming you can speak to them. I understand you're quite secretive.

She did indeed grin when he had led them to more dumplings. "Excellent! Well, now Yoritomo-san need not worry about the ones meant for him."

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Marcella
*He shared in the Mantis's laugh, his Togashi mentors would be saddened if he could not find some humor in his own stumbles along the journey, he folded his hands once more inside his haori and smiled looking up to the skies* " The islands sound wonderful I would love to visit them one day, I doubt anywhere that has such lovely representation as you could be all that disreputable" *He lowered his head and thought for a moment* " While I admit we have little that I think would appeal to others outside the mountains they have always been my home and close to my heart, the plant and animals there does ones soul good and the light from the volcanos can be quite stunning... The most distinguished samurai among us have weddings near such things and the glow makes the ceremony all the more enchanting and the mountain trails while treacherous offer a chance for much self-reflection for those willing to undertake such. Many samurai expect to meet their greatest challenge on the battlefield, but the most cunning of foes dwells within one's own heart.:" *The Dragon lowered his head giving a soft smile* " I miss the shrines and the Togashi brotherhood, I spent much time among them and the Kitsuki, and though this place does have its elegant charms there is a part of me that misses the mountains, especially Kyuden Agasah."
Elizabeth
"Oh, ah... Thank you, Agasha-san. That is both kind and forward of you."

*Did he just...?*

Kana pushed it out of her mind, and focused on what he spoke about. "A volcanic wedding? My, that must be rather exciting! Romantic as well. The fire symbolizing such passion... I wonder if anyone has ever set a romance story there?" She began openly musing. "So are all the mountains there volcanic?"

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Marcella
"It is quite beautiful many stories in Kyuden Agasha tell of romances won and lost in the light of the volcano" *The dragon shook his head smiling softly* "No no some of the mountains are teething with a lush wildlife and diverse plants you can't find anywhere else in the empire, in fact our very own Iron Benton tea is rarely seen outside Dragon lands, there are some mountains that are freezing and snow storms are not unusual. Rivers and streams are also quite common however I fear the difficulty of navigating the mountains does leave us to work harder for trade. Still however there is a beauty to the snowy and fiery peaks that I feel privileged to call my home." *The Dragon turned seeming some what hopeful at the moment* " I do confess though I would love to see the open ocean if I wa ever fortunate enough to find a ship willing to teach the fine art of sailing, I'm lead to believe your clan have no rivals at sea and have mastered sailing with the same dedication and passion that the Mirumoto take to the study of Niten."*He held little hope but he did entertain a small fantasy of being invited on a Mantis ship to see the open sea for himself*
Elizabeth
Kana listened carefully as he described the Dragon lands in detail. She found herself getting a bit homesick at all the talk of the mountains as well. "Well, aside from the Volcanos, it sounds as though there's quite a few similarities to the Valley of the Centipede! We live quite high up in the mountains; many a visitor's been scared off by the lifts and just how high above the ground they end up," She added with a giggle. "You can feel just how close you are to Lady Sun up there. Other shrines and temples, magnificent as they are, just can't capture that same feeling in that same way."

As the topic went to sailing, she looked only slightly surprised; the Dragon had always been independent spirits from what she had heard, so it wasn't terribly shocking he saw something admirable in seafaring rather than just another sign of the Mantis being glorified pirates. "There's a peace in the ocean as well. If you go to the docks early enough, and find an empty one, you can observe the waves. It's an excellent spot for meditation. As far as learning sailing goes, I am certain there would be some of our Samurai who would be happy to help you. Provided things go well with Yoritomo-san, of course. Myself, I'm more of a passenger than a captain when it comes to ships!"

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Marcella
*The Dragon smiled as she spoke of this " Valley of the Centipede" Hearing her describe it as so similar to his own home minus the mountains lead his mind to paint a picture, he found himself almost longing to see what it felt like to be so close to Lady Sun within those mountains* " I hope that your Clan understands the incident was a faux pa and little more but either way if you were ever inclined to journey far from the sea for a time I would be honored to show you the mountains and even the volcanos if you ever wanted to see the glow for yourself, and of course, you are always welcomed to join me for tea at the embassy and vegetable dumplings if you find your duties allow." *He turned his head staring down the street before tilting his head* " Your duties seem to take much of your time, do you have to walk this route daily?"
Elizabeth
Kana wasn't quite sure what to make of the situation. Such an invitation did take on a different connotation in her mind after he had been so forward previously. Then there was the whole business with with Takeya which despite the man's efforts, still hadn't been resolved. Even if Kana was coming around to the idea it was an honest mistake rather than anything malicious, it wasn't her honor at stake. With that said, more friends were always welcome, and this Takamori seemed a good sort.

"Thank you, Agasha-san," She replied. "I shall keep both invitations in mind! As far as my duties, you are correct. The work of a magistrate does require vigilance, and I do make a habit of examining the docks daily. I far prefer it to being stuck in the embassy all dat, however!"

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Marcella
* He tilted his head somewhat confused as he stared at the city streets before tapping his chin.* " Forgive my ignorance Magistrate but are the people here so deceitful? I confess in my lands I do not have much dealings with people outside the yokai sightings and temples.. I did not think the Heimin would be so deceitful to their lords." * Takamori thought back his time back home and reflected how little he actually knew about the lower caste outside excorcisms and religious ceremonies he did not know the actual life of the Heimin, he had seen battle like all Dragon shugenja but that had been alongside felllow Samurai and the ashigaru that were present followed orders obediently. He paused in the middle of the street as realization finally dawned on him before turning and bowing to the Magistrate* " I think I have much to learn still of life outside the monastery and they Kyuden, my ignorance has clearly insulted your Clan , while I do wish to offer my full apologies in person I would request to apologize to you and your clan as a whole." * He rose smiling softly* "THankyou Magistrate though I don't think this was the purpose of our stroll I do believe I have gained useful insight from you."
Elizabeth
It took a moment for Kana to catch Takamori's meaning. "Ah, you mean what happened with the Juniper teahouse? Well, by the very nature of what they do, they need to be deceitful. It's illegal, after all, as much as anything can be considered illegal in the City of Lies..." She sighed. "The rules seem to be that if there's coin in the right purse, and one is not overly blatant with what they do, then a blind eye tends to be turned. It's certainly not an ideal state of affairs but... It is the state of affairs that we have to deal with."

She looked a bit surprised at what the Dragon spoke next. "The entire clan? You mean you'd like the ambassador to be present as well?" She gave him a curious look. "Well, I'm not certain all that is necessary, but if you wish, I can at the very least present the idea to Moshi-sama. Unless I misunderstand you."

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Marcella
*The dragon righted himself standing back to his full height before folding his arms back into his haori as was per usual before smiling softly* " I fear I am a firm believer of righting my wrongs, though if it is too much trouble I would not worry over it, if you feel a proper apology to Yoritomo is proper I am not in a position to disagree." * The Dragon tilted his head softly trying to think of how best to explain his intention.* "What I am trying to say is I am unfamiliar with Mantis customs... I am wishing to gain insight as to the proper way to offer a genuine apology to your clan. As per Mantis customs, I suppose I could ask that I am being asked to be educated on how your Clan does things so as not to make another blunder."
Elizabeth
"Your desire to make things right is admirable, Agasha-san. As I said, I will at the very least mention it to Moshi-sama if you wish to entirely clear the air," She spoke, half intending the pun. "There isn't so much to customs in such a situation. With that said, being direct and honest is much appreciated. We aren't quite the Crane, after all, where every interaction must become a complicated dance. If you are sincere in your words and have the courage to address what has happened to Yoritomo-san, I am certain he will at the very least recognize what you are trying to do."

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Marcella
"Ohhh that is simplistic!" * The Dragon had worried slightly he knew the Crab's methods of receiving apologies were a bit more taxing and that the Crane did indeed demand elaborate formal displays for such manners and while the Dragon didn't mind going to his Daimyo about such things he was confident if he did the Daimyo would likely find some responsibility to give him in response... Takamori shivered at the idea of more manual labor around the embassy being placed upon him, if being sincere and direct was all that was needed then Takamori was confident he could see that done. He smiled giving a gentle bow to the Mantis* "Thank you for sharing I think I understand the best method now... Would you permit me to see you safely back to your Embassy? I do not wish you to roam about without a proper escort if you would allow me the honor."
Elizabeth
Kana blinked at the shugenja a few times. *He... Knows I'm a magistrate and this is what I do, right? I did mention that?*

Remembering herself, Kana bowed, and smiled politely. "Thank you very much for your offer, Agasha-san. I had assumed you would be coming with me as you did wish to speak with Yoritomo-san, and possibly Moshi-sama as well. Please, let us go ahead."

She started down back on the path to the embassy, glancing back to make sure she wasn't going to lose Takamori. "So, before the incident, did you and Yoritomo-san know each other?"

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Marcella
*He smiled following behind the magistrate as he let his mind wander pondering the apology as he turned down the streets with the Magistrate he supposed he was lucky it could be settled between the 2 rather than a large dramatic epic which he knew could happen from time to time depending on the severity of which the other party chose to receive the punishment, he looked up hearing the Magistrates question and smiled* "Ohhh... I don't know him. " * The Dragon said this so matter of factly he might have been remarking upon the weather* " Truth is I met him at a kabuki theatre in the company of a Lion, outside that I honestly wouldn't have even known he was a Mantis if not for the Lion... Strange I didn't think sailors would care for kabuki..." * The Dragon paused thinking on that though he said little else on the way back though when he returned he paused at the doors of the embassy* " I thank you for your wisdom and for hearing me out Daughter of Amaterasu
Elizabeth
"Well... Why would someone who sails not enjoy the theater?" She asked. She did feel a bit of sympathy towards the Dragon at the revelation that a Lion was involved; if Yoritomo hadn't been pleased, she could only imagine how a Lion would have reacted to being brought to the Juniper teahouse. 

Once the pair had arrived at the embassy, she gave another polite smile to Takamori, and bowed. "Of course. Thank you as well for the dumplings, Agasha-san. If you give me a moment, I'll inform Yoritomo-san of you arrival, and hopefully we can gave a conversation."

Bowing once more, she went into the embassy to check for Takeya.

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Marcella
*Takamori bowed as he departed from the Magistrate after saying his proper fairwells before resting in front of a nearby stone lantern he drew his legs in and sat opened palmed as he began to pass the time in quiet meditation, he figured he had a while to wait since it was likely the Magistrate or whoever she dedicated to the task would first have to locate Yoritomo, then would have to pursue him at said location, return to the Embassy be told of the arrival... Or there was the chance Yoritomo was already here? The Dragon shrugged nothing for it it's not like he couldn't halt his meditation the moment the Magistrate returned. He quieted his mind and began to let his mind empty as he felt the pull of the local kami around him *
Clifton
Takeya peeked his head around the corner, watching the Dragon he had spent an afternoon with. His brow furrows as he remembers being taken to the Fisherman's Quarter, a place where he hasn't spent much time even now.

"Moshi-sama are you sure about this? I mean he probably has good intentions, but he has no social acumen. Well, that's not true, I can think of a Crane who has less. You say Agasha san is here to apologize, and I certainly hope so, but I don't think it's me who should be apologized to."

He looks back at his superior in the clan for direction. Takeya was more used to doing the apologizing than receiving them, but he was also young and lacked the experience that many of his betters had.
Elizabeth
Kana had to fight with all her being not to snicker; she knew exactly the Crane being referred to, and had become well acquainted with the "Acumen" Takeya described.

"Well, he did mention wishing to apologize to Moshi-sama as well, but I felt this was a good start. Even if inadvertant, he did put you in a compromising position," She explained. "The decision as to whether or not to accept the apology is yours, Yoritomo-san. I've only given my suggestion based on my assessment of him."

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Clifton
Takeya shakes his head before correcting his posture.

"Moshi-sama, this feels like a setup and I have a bad feeling about this, but I'll take the time and entertain the idea that somebody wishes to apologize to me."

Opening up the door fully, Takeya slowly strides out. Wary of the dragon, he bows quickly.

"Agasha san, I am surprised to see you so soon. I have been told that you were looking for me, may I ask why?"

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Marcella
If Takamori had to be completely honest in this given scenario he almost felt like Takeya looked a little different in the daylight, he thought of commenting on this for a moment then quickly thought better, such observations were better made over sake... In a geisha house... Far removed from the potential consequences of a public meeting for an apology. 

The Dragon pulled himself from his meditation and rose to his feet before smiling softly at the Mantis* 

" You were found much quicker than I would think possible in such a large city. I understand the Teahouse we visited a few days ago has somewhat of a troublesome reputation and the invitation to such was counted as an insult." * At this the Dragon bowed softly to the sailor* 

" I meant no disrespect in the slightest and ask your forgiveness for the matter, it is my understanding the owner is trying to repair the teahouse's poor reputation, I had no idea it was such poorly received location, I am new to Ryoko so I hope you can understand this slip and forgive me for such."
Elizabeth
*Set up for what?* Kana thought to herself as she approached Takamori alongside Takeya. She made sure to stand apart from the pair, however, not speaking or doing anything to indicate that she would interfere with this apology. It would be up Takamori to speak it, and up to Takrya to decide what to do with it.

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Clifton
Takeya eyes the dragon for a moment before seeing the flowers left as a token of apology. He bows quickly for his response.

"Agasha san, I accept your apology but I cannot accept such a gift. While I do not have an eye for floral arrangement, this looks remarkable." ||gift offered 1 time, refused 1 time we are playing the gift dance||

He strokes his chin as he admires the flowers, before speaking.

"You are new to the city as well? I've only been here a short time, but I've been around many of the ports of the empire. From the Imperial Port to Earthquake Fish Bay. I've also frequented a few sake houses in the Merchant's quarter, perhaps I can show you a far more reputable one in the future? Even if the current owner of the tea house you took me to is attempting to improve their image, that is all they seem to be trying to improve."

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Marcella
*He blinked softly a bit surprised before smiling softly* " I fear new may be an understatement this city is a tad different from the rural reaches of the mountains, though I would enjoy learning more of the sea over a bottle of sake, I would be honored to take you up on your offer to show me a more... Acceptable teahouse." *The Dragon bowed his head softly before standing upright*

" I hope in time to show you there was no insult intended in my actions..." * He tilted his head for a moment before pondering to ask* "I fear I am ignorant of what your home's delicacies may involve, the mountains yield much in terms of roots and vegetables but I suspect that may not be as enjoyable to you, is there a place you would prefer to visit now Yoritomo?"
Clifton
Thinking on it, and the various duties he was being given, Takeya quickly bowed to to Agasha.

"I do apologize Agasha-san, I am currently busy with a small litany of affairs here at the embassy. I am happy to visit another tea or sake house in the city, although there aren't any that particularly stand out. There are several I would be happy to show you though."

The young Mantis brushed some o the hair out of his face, his knuckles passing by the several piercings and earrings that Takeya had. The tiny clinking noises brought a slight smile to Takeya's face.

"Thinking on it, you are a gardener if what I have heard is correct. Do you grow root vegetables here in the city? Or anything in your garden? If so, maybe next time we meet I could visit you at your embassy. I can catch something from the river, you provide something else, and we see what kinds of food can be made, and what kinds of tea or sake would pair with them. I have heard that the Dragon have some of the best teas in the empire, and I would not say no to such an invitation."

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Marcella
*Takamori paused before realizing the Mantis had likely discussed with the Lion his attributes in the passed and smiled * "I fear the Lion was mistaken. My Time in Shinomen forest has made me accustomed to the various spirits of nature including Kodama and the kami, I am able to help plants grow more easily but I fear I lack the actual ability to work the soil with my bare hands. I suppose you could argue I am just very good at listening to those that people rarely acknowledge, however. I am more than glad to lend you and your family my services for spirits if need be." * He smiled as he nodded his head at the mention of tea.* " I can give you some of our Iron Benton it's rarely seen outside the mountains but the embassy keeps a bit on hand." * The Dragon offered a kind grin* " I will make sure to show you the very best vegetables the Dragon has to offer and of course make sure you get a good supply of the Iron Benton."
Elizabeth
Kana smiled warmly at the procedings. "Well, if you do not mind my interrupting, it seems things are going well here. I am glad that you were able to apologize, Agasha-san, and that it has gone so well. If I can add on to this, the vegetable dumplings he provided me, and you back in the embassy, are a testament to the quality of the vegetables he speaks of. As I'm sure you know, I do love a good meal, so I would know!" She chuckled.

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Clifton
Takeya chuckled at the mentioning of food. 

"Agasha san, if our next meeting over a freshly caught fish and some fine tea goes well, perhaps we make it a regular occurance. I've never tried Iron Benten, but it sounds like it could be quite the treat I could boast about to my family and one day my children. Unfortunately for now, Moshi Mai sama does have me taking care of some clerical work that seems rather important so I must return to that. Farewell Agasha san, until we meet again."

The young mantis bows quickly and exits the entry way to the embassy, hastily returning to the work he had been doing.

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