Carmen
In one of the Ide Residence's meeting rooms, a priestly figure sat. Not in the strange foreign furniture, but upon a proper *Tatami* Mat at a suitably Rokugani table.

Today, Ide Khulan was dressed in a simple kimono, her hair coiled into a single braid hanging over her shoulder. No need to dazzle here under their own roof, after all. And in front of her upon the table was a tray of snacks, simple vegetarian dumplings and rice, and a large pot of traditional tea.

The day had finally come for a meeting they had arranged: Khulan had asked Shinjo Sumire by message if it would be alright to ask for her insight into the shrine they were building at a time of her choosing. She may have been growing more in tune with the kami of the city, and familiar with the traditional styles of shrines, but architecture was not an art she mastered.

The shugenja checked the setting one last time for her own satisfaction. It would provide a safe, private place to discuss their plans and view any sketches they had, safe from the elements or prying eyes.

But it also had a second benefit: It was a traditional atmosphere that would help Sumire feel more at ease. As her cousin Temujin explained, the girl was raised with very traditional tastes.

*Just need to remember how Jin-kun explained it: Attempt to be open, and offer her spaces where she can be of service.*

Now she was here, waiting for the servants to inevitably announce the second arrival.

||
Simonne
Another visit to someone else among the clan, to their private home. It wasn't as if this was something to happen frequently for Shinjo Sumire, but at least it was not her first time. She had the meeting with her brother to stand as an insightful lesson for meeting others. She knew, this time, she couldn't just be surprised if she was offered milk tea or anything like that. Since then, she'd been willing to consider that others may have traditions they wish to uphold too, she couldn't be selfish and turn down such traditions.

She was also prepared for something distinct in a formal way, and not just because she was wearing a floral hairpin this time to keep her hair from getting in the way of her eyes. At least this time, she did not have to wear her glasses, either. No, instead she was simply prepared for a sense of duty, a scroll case gripped in one hand while her other tried to carry her prepared cartography kit. There was some architecture to discuss, so there were designs to discuss. It just so happened to also be timed perfectly with work. Her own projects had involved a need to research matters of the five winds as they might be expressed in the work of a shugenja.. And to uphold it in a matter of architecture. The former she knew almost nothing about, unlike the latter. The project with the gates might not have been the reason she was called upon, but maybe collaboration could serve to further both goals at once. This was why she thus brought with her some of the related sheets of her work that could potentially apply to both situations.

Knocking upon the door with her hands thus filled became something of an uncertain task. It involved more bumping the kit faintly before trying the more resolved thud of the scroll case. This however briefly caused her to fumble the case, leaving her to scramble to recover it before it fell and rolled away.

She also had her etiquette to recover too. "Ide-san, may I enter?" Thankfully, her stuff was fine.
Carmen
The small commotion outside alerted Khulan to a guest's presence, preceding a proper voice seeking permission to enter.

*Hm. Jin-kun had mentioned she could grow nervous.*

"You may. Please, come in."

Before long, an attending servant would slide the door open, standing ready to help the younger courtier in. Facing her, the Ide smiled warmly and inclined her head in acknowledgement.

"Shinjo Sumire-san? A pleasure to finally meet you," She said with a respectful bow. Rising from where she sat, she added "As you might know, I am Ide Khulan, one of the Clan's spiritual consultants."

One sleeved arm swept from the entrance to the opposite end of the table, gesturing for Sumire to join her.

"Thank you for agreeing to meet with me. I am sure we have much to discuss, but for now, would you care for some tea?"

Khulan pointed between the pots which stood over the cups and dishes prepared for them. One was plain, another painted with floral scenes, and a third with swirling waves.

"We have Pearl Dew and Black Needle, as well as *Chagashi* If you prefer something sweeter."

All traditional blends of tea which Sumire very likely was familiar with.

||
Simonne
Once inside, she promptly bowed in formal etiquette, a general routine for her. "I'm sorry about my intrusion. Yes, I am Shinjo Sumire, it is likewise a pleasure to make your own acquaintance. I'm sorry, but I may have brought a few things that I felt might be helpful for our discussion. Might there be a good place to put them, as I would not want to sour your tea by intruding upon it with paperwork? It can wait for after we've first partaken upon your kind arrangements." As usual, she did not feel that paper and tea went well together, an unfortunate reality she really should have been better prepared for. Of course there would have been tea for such a meeting, though that did not dissuade the importance of what she brought either. Regardless, once provided a place for the paperwork to await, she would join her host for tea.

She took a seat as provided, surprised at the traditional offerings. Well, her host here was of the Ide family, maybe that sufficiently explained everything. She was not one to partake in sweeter teas, and generally felt most accustomed to green teas, the Gyokuro would be the best offer. "I'll have some of the Pearl Dew, thank you kindly for your consideration." She was already feeling relaxed by the accommodations, like her host had a natural talent at keeping people at ease. Given the personal attention to detail aligned with her own distinct mannerisms, that effect was not lost.

Something about the assembly left her with the impression that some decidedly extra attention was placed into the whole tea situation too, even though she couldn't quite yet figure out what exactly was giving her that impression. To her, it was meaningful enough being given a selection she found to be so comfortable, she wouldn't have been troubled by the alternative options either had they been the only option. With so much attention placed upon tea, she did not feel it wise to simply start discussions on other matters right away, so stayed quiet.
Carmen
"No apologies are necessary, Shinjo-san; I did ask you here to discuss matters of building, so I am glad that you have your materials with you."

She spoke with a practiced grace that suggested she was completely sincere, without a hint of veiled dissatisfaction.

"But certainly, feel free to set them down beside you until we have need for them," She added with a gesture. "Our Clan knows well how to balance courtesy and practicality."

And as Sumire took her seat, and stated her preference, Khulan poured first as the host. The Pearl Dew's fragrance was subtler than the Black Needle, but it was certainly high quality green tea.

"At the very least, let us gather our bearings and grow more acquainted, Shinjo-san."

For this day, Khulan's familiarity with conversation and her own sisterly instincts led henr to initiate the conversation. Her cousin's tips suggested that Sumire might feel at ease if shown the boundaries and invited into them.

"I understand this city takes a lot of getting used to, but how have you been faring in it with your duties and daily routine?"

Placing some dumplings upon her small plate, Khulan kept her brown eyes upon Sumire, her smile gentle as she continued speaking, answering her own question first.

"For my part, it has been an interesting challenge, given its reputation. A crowded city known for both wealth and crime. But for me, there is also the spiritual angle of my duties with the kami. The challenge of knowing them, and helping them to know me. In a sense, it is like another journey into strange lands, where I am tasked with growing closer with its locals."

She set her chopsticks down, leaning back with her hands folded in her lap.

"But for all that, I am thankful that I can still enjoy a cup of tea from time to time."

||
Simonne
She took more focus upon the etiquette of tea, leaving aside other matters until some regular discourse was achieve foremost. Even before that, as tea was prepared, she turned her attention towards that and the process with which it was involved. She even made sure to respectfully sample some of the tea, which did result in a bit of savouring of its nostalgia. She certainly did not take much from her cup though, she was in no hurry to empty it. This was more so in her case distinctly, as she typically had a much reduced appetite than most and she really didn't feel as if she could intake very much. In that consideration, it was most proper for her to make her cup last.

This too did leave her easily composed for some general conversation once it was time for such discourse. "My own process has been in both architecture and.. The more samurai side of what you explained about the kami. Getting to know the other samurai, getting known by other samurai, building a social repertoire. Much like this, in fact. My duties have required a sense of interactions among others, and even the architectural duties have came with its social requirements. My role not only involves drafting up the plan of architecture, but to also keenly communicate it to others so that it might be appropriately followed. Sometimes, architecture is more complicated as it requires insight into knowledge others have, and so I find myself in situations such as walking around the Bazaar asking questions of its attendants, so that I might further grasp the concepts I work around. Social interactions have thus become the ordinary for me, something I do every day."

She took another sip of her tea at that. "While that means meetings like this are a constant for me, I agree that the occurrences that come with some good tea are something to be especially thankful for."
Carmen
Good; it seemed that this girl was at ease so far.

"Then it seems that you are finding your way. May your footing grow ever surer." Khulan wished Sumire with a gentle smile.

Contrary to impressions, Khulan enjoyed slowly savouring tea as much as she did drinking it with no reservations. Today, she would match Sumire's pace. Thankfully, as they were conventional blends, there was plenty to go around. Certainly more than the unique blends Ide Kenza imported from across the Burning Sands.

"We all carry our Clan with us; it is not just something for courtiers and diplomats. Even you and I, though we deal in buildings and prayers, still meet with others," The older Ide noted thoughtfully. "I, too, collaborate with the Phoenix, as well as the local monks and priests. And because our religious traditions still seem strange to most of the Empire, I must take care to both understand their ways while representing our own."

These words were exchanged between gradual sips of tea, and the occasional dainty bite of a dumpling. Wiping her lips with a small cloth, the shugenja's demeanour lightened slightly as she shared again.

"As it happens, I've always had a fondness for tea. And in my Father's home, I had a large variety to try from. He always made sure to bring back souvenirs from his missions to the other Clans, tea among them. One time, he brought back some Spring's Smile from Phoenix lands. I remember that brew well."

With harmony in her every gesture, Khulan took up her cup again.

"Of course, when I trained with the Iuchi, their curiosity was focused on other things, so my choices for tea there were more limited."

A restricting downside, but it was spoken with good humour and fond recollection.

For now, she didn't raise the matter of her reason for arranging this meeting. This was a moment to share tea, and she wanted to give Sumire a chance to share if she wanted.

||
Simonne
It was almost feeling like an opening for other responsibilities, this discussion of buildings and prayers and their meetings of others. She listened attentively while sampling her own tea and dumplings. Though that process, she planned what she might say next, how she might properly approach the next step of this conversation. Then things simply returned to matters of tea. Ah, so maybe this was just an icebreaker, because important duties were always the most prime of conversations for a base introduction. She then might not want to get carried away so soon.

She smiled in appreciation of tea, both the snack at present and the earnest conversation. "There does seem to be a wide variety of teas to experience, everyone seems to have their own traditions, their own perspectives. Some may surprise you with a.. Milk tea.. While another might surprise you by turning down their tea." She didn't mention that both of those were from people of her own family. "There was even that time at Chickenfest, I recall you were there sharing the same table with me then too. To me though, this is still a new experience. I did not try a versatile amount of tea, just.. Just much like this one."

She paused to appreciate the nostalgia once again, thinking briefly of home while sipping the tea. "I spent most of my life trained by the Ide, and their.. Curiousity was also focused on other things. I do remember my mother at least was fond of.. Trying to also share curiousities from her journeys..." She then did remember the unfortunate reality of where that had taken things instead, the harsh contrast that came soon afterwards. She went silent at that, the additional details not exactly appropriate for a simple introduction with someone she'd just barely become acquainted with.
Carmen
Khulan heard Sumire out, listening intently. From her own experiences with tea, to a bit about her own family. It made sense; the Ide handled the majority of the Clan's courtly and architectural needs. Certainly, the *Gaijin* Styles were known and appreciated by all Unicorn families, but the Ide were the ones with the disposition and expertise to actually stay put and create them.

"Indeed. But that, too, gives life its colour. The mulberry tree, the river, and the castle each have their own beauty, yet none seeks to imitate the other."

She took the opportunity to refill Sumire's cup, speaking as she poured and withdrew.

"So it is with people; to each their own for their tastes. I myself grew up as an Ide, yet was trained by the Iuchi. The difference between court and magic is something I have lived with."

One hand raised to gesture to herself, her own words nostalgic and at peace.

"My own mother took it upon herself to teach her children how to hunt. I honour it as a part of who I am, but it is not a world I regularly enter; my path was simply different. Different from both my parents, even."

Khulan certainly didn't mind the tea or the topics. While she understood Sumire was someone trying hard to live up to her own expectations, she hoped that at least this small talk might build their rapport.

"Still, it is that tension between two worlds which helps our Clan to live up to the virtue of Compassion. We are able to see that different paths can have equal worth, certainly better than most."

Her point made, the Ide smiled gently as she faced Sumire, her expression serene and sisterly.

"So it is my hope to ask for your insight into making this shrine the best it can be. I am certain your own insights will be invaluable in pleasing the kami who will reside in it."

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Simonne
She was surprised that her faintly drained cup was refilled, but maybe it was all the talk of tea which left prompting of such a consideration. Should she avoid giving such mixed messages, and avoid talking about teas? Well, maybe there was a chance that the other Unicorn simply loved their teas. That could always explain things as well. The topic had shifted from teas either way, so the solution worked regardless.

The topic about differences in lifestyles just wasn't one of warm happiness. "I faintly recall how my life was before matters of.. Courts. A childhood of travelling.. Of journeys. Never being in one spot. As a child, there was a lot about the process I never got to learn, so I can't tell much about what had gone on back then, but there was.. A lot to explore. It was just terribly unfortunate that I couldn't keep up with the expected lifestyle even as I grew older. I didn't even have the athletics for travel.. And I'm sure you've heard some of the whispers mocking my lack of talent around horses. So I needed a lifestyle that simply was not about travels or journeys.. Much like how architecture is. Your own family certainly provided a lot of opportunity there. There was a lot.. To adjust to.. But I'm certainly thankful for what your family has done for me." This was not something she would have mentioned to anyone who was not Ide, certainly not to anyone of her own family. The disappointment that had her left behind, but also the opportunity she still remained thankful for.

Then came the main task at hand, fitting into the discussion. "I've worked with some interesting plans for architecture, where I've always needed to know related knowledge so as to ensure the design fits all expectations. Those expecations have generally been for the people around it, the kami.. I'm less certain about. Do you know about the five gates project in the bazaar, and how they will work with the kami there? I'm in charge of that too, same uncertainties."
Carmen
Her sombre recollection reminded Khulan about her cousin's brief: Sumire is hard on herself, especially with the Clan's traditions. That he'd shared it instead of being discrete signalled to her that he was doing so out of Compassion, to help their interactions.

"I receive your words with gratitude, Shinjo-san. And allow me to say, it is most assuring to know your expertise. Homes that last, beauty in building, and finding harmony with one's surroundings also matter greatly to the Ide. And those skills serve the whole Clan just as surely as scouts and warriors."

She may not have directly confronted Sumire's confessions of doubts (to give her some space after immediately airing them), but the subtext was clear: those qualities were useful here, and also valued by the Ide and the Clan.

"I am indeed aware of Utaku-san's work there, though I am not directly involved. But that is good; you are indeed well-prepared for this, and I can at least answer for the kami. Now, if you will pardon me for a moment..."

Smoothly, Khulan extracted sketches from her case, carefully clearing space at the table. The first showed the planned location for the shrine within the Temple Quarter.

"This is where we will be building the Shrine to Kisshoten. It is an auspicious spot, and we are working with the monks and priests to allow its construction."

Rolling up the parchment, she extracted another, holding examples of different shrines great and small.

"And these are designs of other shrines to Fortunes, such as Namaku, Inari, Benten or Bishamon. I also have references from the Temple of Daikoku if you prefer."

Setting it aside, she nodded to Sumire, speaking smoothly.

"Shrines should honour the Fortune they are dedicated to. As Kisshoten is the Fortune of Happiness, I hoped to suggest something uplifting and respectful, but not intimidating. Something to please both the kami and her worshippers. I would appreciate your insight, Shinjo-san."

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Simonne
Of course, there was other things to do than to just go over personal history, and she wasn't inclined to keep back the schedule when it seemed like matters of duty were approaching, so she simply interpreted the responses to her own circumstance as a progression of conversation, thus she wasn't focused upon those ideas.

Besides, if it came to doubts, there were already more relevant options. "I'm prepared for the architectural side, yes, but I've been struggling with finding the right details for bringing comfort to the kami. I've been studying related architecture at the very least, which has provided me with an uncertain amount of progress between concepts. That's why I brought some of the work I had which I felt could be related between both that project and the work you're looking to undergo, as it might help furnish a plan for what you want for your shrines." She was still worried about her research for the gates, but was more eager to help than to be helped.

She pulled out a few of her own drafts as example, which explored physical qualities of construction and its considerations. "Like here. You might know that cardinals were important, but that speculated importance such as sunlight over the day and the materials that would suggest. Wood came up, but it was considered not recommended. Look upon your map, the most critical direction is this way, as its the approach from the road. A samurai's construction must be above what others may produce, it must uphold an elegance others could never hope to attain. From my research, this applies to the kami too as it must be a construction that garnishes a positive regard for the kami more than others might be capable of. It becomes a matter of reputation, presented honor. It still might matter based upon what the shrine would define as iconic, though. Has there been plans for an iconic design that would best represent Kisshoten's honor, most visible from this direction?"
Carmen
"Indeed, like my cousin told me, you are most meticulous. The references you diligently gathered here are an excellent beginning. And rest assured, I will add my insights to yours; spiritual matters are my specialty, after all."

The Ide observed the samples, comparing them in her mind and her stated goal: something which honoured Kisshoten and appealed to local tastes, both mortal and spiritual. Unicorn influences needn't dominate, though the shrine should ideally speak of their collaboration with the Phoenix.

"In my experience, direction and materials are strong spiritual foundations. Besides being practical for worship, its angle should also overlook the city, a sign of the Fortune's gaze over all." Khulan said, tapping at the parchment. "Wood has some affinity with Kisshoten, as life and nature are related to happiness, fertility and beauty. But I'll understand if the shrine's construction needs practical concerns, and defer to your experience with materials." 

She leaned back from the table and raised her cup, taking a thoughtful sip.

"As to iconic features, I have been in discussion with Isawa Noboru-sama. The shrine's *Shintai* Should serve as its anchor, while its *Yorishiro* Should be what keeps it afloat by attracting and pleasing benevolent kami. To that end, we will be commissioning an appropriate carving that honours Kisshoten, likely a small statue in her image to be blessed and beautified, as well as *Omamori* To bless."

Setting the cup down, Khulan looked among her own references. After a moment of consideration, a finger trailed towards one of the references: one which appeared elegant and romantic.

"As for the design of the shrine itself, I would recommend that you look to those dedicated to Benten for inspiration, while making it less flashy. There are similarities between her and Kisshoten, but they are distinct. The style of its roof and doors would be the most visible signs for any visitor."

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Simonne
She considered the details being presented and how they might apply with care. "Overlook the city? Does it need elevation too? One of the plans I have here are about something being tall as well, if that's important. The central gate too had to stand above the other four, as what I was told. Elevation starts to get into matters of a tower, like this or.. Maybe this?" She held out a few plans that tried to be towers, incomplete ideas as they would take a lot of stone and need a hefty foundation. "Granite and other bedrocks have brought promise for a durable and.. I guess also natural design. It's just not the most elegant, so it would need to be complimented by some proper minerals or something like that. Jade might say the most, but.. That's jade. Not sure what else might properly uphold the right elegance... The gates weren't best handled with wood, but maybe it might work better for your shrines?" She knew there were a lot of wood structures in the temple district, so the wood there might just blend better with everything else around it.

Matters of its iconic design however did give credence to its own answers. "A shintai? Natural-looking too. Even a statue speaks stone, the rings of logs makes them a bit more awkward in bigger pieces. Well, you make it sound like a boat? The boat could be wood, as that's pretty normal, isn't it? The normal would be both respectful and elegant. If you use a boat though.. You'll need a water basin too. That would certainly need a stone foundation." The flow of water had been something she'd actually been studying now for quite a while, with the matter coming up multiple times in various encounters.

She of course had not been studying any specific shrines directly, so she knew nothing about any inspiration Benten might have to lend. She was certain that the shrine might not get to be without wood at this point, but there was still a lot involved that she didn't yet have details upon.
Carmen
Khulan smiled with a bit of amusement, though it wasn't directed at Sumire. Swallowing a mouthful of dumpling while Sumire presented her details, she spoke up.

"Ah, my apologies. I didn't necessarily mean a tower. Rather, I meant that its location crests at a hill along the Small Holies, and may gaze down upon the other shrines and buildings."

She gestured to one of the towers. Its roof was more adorned in its slope.

"This one has some resemblance to the shrines of Benten, so you could borrow from its design."

The Ide stepped back, the shrine's image growing more solid in her mind's eye.

"As for the carving, I believe one of wood in Kisshoten's image will do nicely. Perhaps made from pine wood, which is significant to the Phoenix we are cooperating with. I understand our Utaku Takeda-san is adept at woodworking, though I can also commission other carvers for this task."

Finally, Khulan extracted a blank sheet and her writing tools. Not the ones she gained from the poetry contest, however. These were her familiar ones from home. She spoke as she readied the ink, and drafted the rough locations of each addition.

"Water is an element with close ties to her, so a viewing pond might be good, and all elements can be represented and honoured here. Incense and torches to represent Air and Fire, with wood and perhaps a small garden for Earth. And all of them united as one in a single place, as with Void."

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Simonne
Elevation, that was always a handy feature to consider, but a bit more difficult to map out. It would still need consideration of the height of its neighbouring constructions, but that did have a few advantages for it to consider. It wouldn't need to be something crazy to peek over the structures near it. The top decoration of the whole thing would still need special attention though in appreciation of this elevation, a rather key ornamentation for the whole prospective. That would have to be something that somehow best grasps the whole kami thing. It would then still remain the most challenging part. Maybe something iconic to Kisshoten, or otherwise remiss here of what the Benten shrines had going on. That might take some extra research. The statue being taller than everything else might be the greatest opportunity here, though that brought up another concern.

She took consideration of the idea of having a statue without any masonry. "Assembling pieces of pine carvings for a grand figure still has some serious concerns. Pine is not the most water-tight material, it can't support a water basin very easily. Pine can also suffer weathering, which can work well for parts that can be easily replaced, but will be much harder for anything foundational. I worry a pine figure might need a lot of maintenance in order for it to remain pristine, with parts replaced seasonally. This is why something like this typically has a granite foundation, which could manage for generations with only minor repairs. Wood has been very appreciated for the clan because we've never needed much that lasts more than seasons with all our travels, but making something built to last requires something a lot more permanent. Is the stones of the ground something unappreciated by Kisshoten?"
Carmen
"Understandable. And thank you for your insight; these are areas I am less versed in." Khulan admitted without any reservation whatsoever. Like her cousin, she was forthright when discussions turned honest.

Leaning back slightly, she nodded and spoke with the authority of her profession.

"I can at least tell you that both wood and stone can carry spiritual significance. Wood has ties to nature and life. A peach tree might carry symbolic value, and pine wood has ties with the Phoenix, but birch and oak are also suitable for sacred constructions.

"Stone and earth, however, carry their worth for their close ties with the earth kami. In fact, the Stoic Boulder Dojo houses a massive stone which is the home of an especially proud and enduring spirit. So on those grounds, both materials can be pleasing: Wood with ties to life which Kisshoten cherishes, and stone for bonds which endure."

Taking hold of her chopsticks, she used them to gesture to the parchment with her own samples, pointing to each mentioned section.

"Then perhaps the structure can be made from stone and more durable wood, treated with a resin to help preserve it? The carving, of course, can be sheltered within the shrine to better preserve it, though it will indeed require maintenance from its priests."

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Simonne
So stone would at least work, but it seemed the wood was important as well. That should be fine, it even seemed as if there was symbolic significance matching the practical performance of the stone and wood involved. Stone endures, but wood is more alive. Well, wood is technically dead, it might need a planted tree to put life into wood, but that had always been a whimsical effort at best. Trees just liked growing however they wanted to grow, never how they were expected to grow. A living tree was just considerably more durable than its dead wood counterpart.

Then again, resin was the blood of trees, wasn't it? She was certain that was true, but it wasn't as if she was the expert on such natural matters. At the very least, there was nothing wrong with handling resin that has been bled from trees, so there was already a distinct difference there in representation. Stone might even have its own blood, but that hadn't been something she'd figured out yet. She just knew a thing or two about regular blood, despite what that might imply. As the subject was already a sensitive one, she discarded the thought process quickly afterwards.

Her return to her original idea was still partly vocalized. "So a living tree might not be an option, but at least putting life around it in its vitalization to keep it maintained.. That would work? So, a stone foundation that's probably granite, a water basin.. Maybe some dirt to encourage flowers to grow in that environment. The carving would be protected inside, so something of a stone shielding. Wait, but you said you also wanted it to overlook stuff. How would it overlook things encased in stone? That might need something of a protective canopy, but that then has the normal tower problem. Stone can be heavy, branching it over a wide area can make it less stable. The reinforcements for a stone canopy would detract from the design of what laid inside. That's a hard one."
Carmen
Indeed. While she heard that there were temples built around living trees which become foundations, that was not practical here.

"Well, it is enough to build the shrine and orient its entrance towards the area downhill. But that is a good line of thinking, Shinjo-san."

*Not too bad. As Jin-kun said, the kami blessed her with a mind for work.*

She sipped at her tea once more, and once again, enjoyed its flavour and scent. As they say: All the Elements, in one pot.

"What comes to mind is some way to make it possible to easily move the carving from within the shrine and outside where people can see it," She continued while setting the cup down. "Not always, of course, but for special occasions like festivals or ceremonies."

She pointed to an area near the sketch of the shrine and its position. Not far off from it, and close to the lane which would lead to it.

"For that, my suggestion is to work closely to ensure Kisshoten's carving is not too cumbersome, and that it has a dais or litter which can be used to carry it out. Perhaps with one area specially hallowed to receive her, which can then be given a covering of some kind."

Drawing her hand back, she regarded Sumire with calming patience.

"Have you any ideas on what would best suit these things? A wooden stand and roof would suffice, though a cloth canopy can also work."

Basically, her thoughts were shaping the shrine thusly: A main shrine where the statue would be most of the time, which seemed to be settled, and a smaller stand where the carving could be placed to overlook the city from the high ground.

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Simonne
She considered this new line of thought, a combination of a durable structure, but with limited capabilities to be relocated when the need arose. That would at least also address any repair needs for the statue, could even replace it if the need arose. She could see the value in a proper foundation that could clip well to a shaped base with distinct movements, so that it would not move loosely when the kami might decide to put its endurance to test and trial. Weather was like that sometimes. A distinct shape would also give it a sense of identity, so that it wouldn't just be switched out with something else that someone else just thought might be better on a given day.

She'd not only arrived with samples, but her entire schematic drawing kit, so she was able to represent this idea in a quick and rough sketch in the manner of the other samples she'd brought from her other work. A sheltered enclosure that felt something like a decorative cocoon shell, opened to allow a few people inside to pay their respects, the entrance large enough for its contents to leave along the flat stone paving that would bring it to a wide rounded stone dais similar to its original enclosure, but the dais having no roof. Even a heavy statue could be moved along the stone path between with the right accommodations, but it wasn't as if it would be easy to move anything like that over conventional roads otherwise.

When not resting upon such a dias, it could otherwise rest within the protection of the enclosure. The design held strong considerations for holding up against weathering, though was obviously filled with blank considerations in how it might further uphold both proper iconography while looking amazing in the process. As planned previously, the enclosure included a rounded basin which could be filled with water, the interior otherwise open to a lot of further wooden decorum.

She paused at this point. "So, how about something like this?"
Carmen
Khulan looked over the design Sumire drafted. Indeed, to be able to do so within a few minutes after their discussion spoke well of her training in this area.

"Thank you, Shinjo-san. This looks like an excellent beginning; beautiful, with a design for the carving's movement." Khulan replied warmly. "I appreciate the spaces afforded for both worshippers and other icons of worship. On those I can certainly advise you."

Looking across from the architect, Ide Khulan added another dango to her plate as she spoke.

"With your permission, after I help round out other representations and spiritual aspects, I'll share your drafts with the Phoenix we are cooperating with. I shall handle most of the discussions with them so as not to take you from your other duties, but if you have any key points for me to keep in mind while I work with them, I would certainly like to know them."

She gazed at the buildings once again. Yes, this was a good start, and hopefully it would help build something better for this city stricken with suffering.

"Thank you, Shinjo-san. You have been a great help. In the meantime," She asked, "Have you any further questions for me regarding this? Or are there spiritual matters I can help you with in return?"

She knew from Temujin's description that Sumire strongly preferred to be of use. But it was, nevertheless, a sincere offer to reciprocate.

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Simonne
She paused thoughtfully to contemplate the consideration of what would be important in collaborations for the draft she made so far. "This idea does well for having a wooden design for the interior of the enclosure here, but it's otherwise a design open for various considerations. There is a lot that could be done in there, but a big concern is how it would treat open flames. Wood and flames tend to mix terribly poorly, and while stuff could be done to ensure the wood is much less flamable, the smoke is also a problem. This design will not vent smoke very well. That might work very well for retaining any sense of incense used, might be enough for small candles, but it means you want to be careful with how much fire is inside. The dais over here instead would do much better at supporting open flames, especially as a beacon to draw attention to it while out in the open, though that could be a concern too if the statue is also wooden. Wood and fire do not mix very well. The more fire you want, the more granite we will need. If you want to use flowers, they will react terribly to smoke and fire as well. Decorations with stones other than granite will probably be recommended too, it isn't the most lustrous of minerals. A proper design must always look good too."

It sounded like the next step was information gathering, a phase she certainly understood in her own designs. Needed to see what other people felt was significant in consideration for such a project. That's why this was only an early draft, she could assist with more depth once the requirements were more clearly attained. It implied she had no reason for further questions at this time, so she shook her head when that question also arose.

However, that too was followed with a speculation she did have concerns with, looking upon the drafts from the gates. "Well, I admit I'm still having problems with the spiritual context in the gate issue that originated most of these documents..."
Carmen
"I will be sure to consult Isawa-sama on that matter. While torches and bonfires have ceremonial value, controlled incense should suffice," Khulan commented, "And any fires would only be lit under the supervision of the shrine's caretakers."

Certainly, she was not unaware of the logistics. Contrary to appearances that the Iuchi were too carefree and outdoorsy to consider such matters, they were always keenly aware of how their worship affected nature.

In turn, she heard out Sumire's own matter, looking over the documents she laid out.

*Hm. Gates? What spiritual matters would concern an architect?*

"I see. Would that be the *Torii* Arches that Utaku-san is overseeing at the Bazaar?" She asked in return. "Or the gates to the city?"

She straightened to look from the drafts to their owner, her expression even and encouraging.

"In any case, I am more than willing to help answer your queries about this matter. Please, continue."

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Simonne
She realized her designs here weren't telling the full story by themselves, and made sure to bow her apology. "I apologize for the lack of clarity. This does relate to the five gates project at the bazaar, that it might uphold the five winds in its design sufficiently enough to appease the kami who might be needed for something else of the project. I just know basically nothing of such wards. I made sure to check with those working around the five cardinals which seemed to best apply the gates, seeing how the people there would be impacted and what measures would be required for that, but I find myself at a loss for doing the same with the kami. Much.. Like we'd discussed earlier."

Despite having exceptional capabilities in divination which might serve to communicate the whims above, it was not as if she was that attuned to those capabilities. Not yet, at least, not while she continued to neglect the one tool which would most serve to provide such an option. As a result, she had nothing she could depend upon for learning what she might need for that part of her project. More so, it wasn't as if she knew of many people she could ask about such a thing either. However, after having just helped the Ide Shugenja with their similar concerns, it just invited the idea that this might suitably apply as well.
Carmen
"Hm, I see it now. Thank you, Shinjo-san." Khulan replied as she studied the plans. "My apologies, its growth and appearance are new to me."

And indeed, she meant it. While her studies were mostly in the realm of comparing practices and blending traditions, she certainly knew her share of protective structures. Looking back to the architect, Khulan smiled reassuringly.

"Well, the most important matter for you is to match the gates to their purpose: entries into the Bazaar, which represent our Clan. I can see they fulfil that function quite well."

One hand moved over the schematics, the sleeved arm flowing over each of the five gates in turn.

"It appears to me that you are already on the right track. The gates represent the four main directions and the centre, and simultaneously, invoke the blessings of the five Elements. Their purpose to witness comings and goings will also please the spirits of the winds, and the essence of movement and change, while being rooted in one location. Their main concern, from what I can see here, is what comes and goes through them."

Khulan drew her hand back and, in one fluid movement, took up her cup for another sip of tea.

"Utaku-san should be more than able to handle your questions or concerns," She added while setting the cup down. "He has studied wards, and is better placed to see to the spiritual needs of these gates each day. But yes, I am happy to answer any other questions you may have about these."

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Simonne
She pulled out a draft for the central gate, using it for further explanation. "Well, gates, yes, while I also made sure there was some cardinality to their alignment, at least as much as the city's design would best support for any functional usage. This one though, for example, I was told it was to be there 'above the other four'. That's why, not only acting as a node that conveys passage through a hollow core, it's both elevated from the ground and towering over the landscape. However, like we went over before, hollow towers can be challenging when its to reach very high, and the extra elevation makes supports even harder. Still, the only reason for it is so that it is above the others, so it isn't like we need to do both at once.. Maybe. As that was a presented need for the kami, it is the needs of the kami that most gauge how to address this. Elevation and towering both effect the people, but not so much that either was preferred over the other."

She had a compiled report on the subject already, she expected she just needed another perspective to sufficiently grasp what implications existed here of a spiritual nature. "So far, the gates have conceptually grasped a matter of workflow, key points of the bazaar designed to be much wider than its inner paths so as to freely promote centers of activity that constantly funnel down other avenues. Supposedly, that's very good. I was there myself, I got to see that such locations would get enough activity to just sweep someone away into the depth of a crowd like a heavy wind. The big concept stuff is the easier stuff to figure out, but the efficient and elegant grasp of every fine detail is why this is a samurai's duty, so I need to make sure nothing got missed in the process."
Carmen
Khulan nodded, taking in Sumire's explanations.

"This fifth gate is certainly eye-catching, at the very least. But that is good," She commented. "That means it naturally draws the attention of the kami of air, who are playful and enjoy showing off."

Her hand pointed towards the base of the fifth gate upon the diagrams.

"I would suggest seeking a blessing of the earth kami to help stabilise its foundation. Though air and earth are opposites, their differences can complement each other. Appropriately blessed *Ofuda* And *Omamori* Can serve well without being conspicuous."

The Ide looked over the whole of the gates, this time overseeing the other four.

"And I see... That is a most ingenious design, Shinjo-san. It also invokes the essence of water: not just in its flow, but in its purpose of fostering exchanges and activity."

She looked back up to the younger woman with a nod.

"I am, of course, not an expert on how architecture affects traffic. For that, I defer to your good judgement. I am, however, familiar with the flow of people through shrines and temples."

This time, her hand traced the pathways among the gates, following a line like she was charting a river.

"The flow you have here is good, and the essence of Water is strong here. But the centres of activity are just as vital; they embody the essence of Fire, bringing visitors together in activity, where the merchants and visitors will be exposed to ideas and offerings most freely."

Withdrawing her hand, she looked back to the Clan's architect with calm focus.

"In those cases, I believe you are on the right track. My only advice is to ensure that the flow is in balance: not too much traffic that people walk through too quickly, nor too many centres of activity that they become overcrowded. In this matter, Atsuko-san heads the bazaar's security, and would be the ideal person for you to consult."

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Simonne
She realized the implication was to prioritize elevation over height, that the observable stability was better than making it just look tall. That would make things a lot easier, her towering ideas always had their complexities in other compromises, while the raised elevation would service to further gate off separations of the middle. The artificial elevation would just require a lot more material, but something about earth stuff liking that contribution, so that was fine. It was at least looking like her creation settled more concerns than she'd known it would, but maybe proper architecture was just something the kami liked too. Maybe it was proper architecture because it was something the kami liked?

It was like a chicken and egg of another perspective.

What was important was that she'd run things over with something of a kami expert and had recieved the input she still required as a result. "I've actually already met with such a security expert regarding this project, who was there while I was collecting all of my original observations from the people involved. Like I said, the place already gets some pretty intense flow of traffic, so I had been chosen such a skilled security escort while doing my review work. There had been an opportunity for discussions then." She didn't bring up how distant the ronin had been in the process, especially early on, but things had worked out sufficiently in the end. Mostly because, then like now, she'd just been told that anyone else could tell her more about what she wanted to discover, passing off requests for information as if they weren't at all involved. Architecture was imposing for most, so she generally understood the trends of uncertainty. She knew to collect only what each respective person had for information, and to compile the collection herself on her own. That's always how this stuff worked. She was however good at listening to others like that, taking in their contributions for the greater whole.
Carmen
The Ide listened to Sumire's update that she had met Atsuko. The young woman seemed to be the sort to be lost in thought, but at the very least, she was staying active in her own way.

"Getting acquainted is good." Khulan acknowledged encouragingly. "The more you know others, the more you know who to turn to when you need advice."

Her brown eyes scanned their table, host to both tea and building plans. A romantic thought, to think that such drawings would be brought to life for a greater goal, though she also knew it would take effort.

"It would seem that you have the answers you seek," She mentioned, "But is there anything more you would like me to answer or clarify?"

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Simonne
She considered how the overall situation worked, at least feeling a bit more confident after getting a perspective look at her drafts spiritually. "That was probably the most important part, but if I have any brief questions that come up later, I'll send word your way. Feel free to do the same for your own project, if you have any architectural concerns in its layout. Was there anything else?"

She noticed the Ide eyes scanning over the tea, so looked at how much she'd had in the course of this discussion. Not that much, but she'd had a decent enough portion sampled slowly, a blur amidst the other conversation. Her cup was even empty at this point, not recalling when that had happened, and she wasn't interested in refilling it. To her though, a day between tea and drawings was a very normal day. This was a day of another's teas mixed with her drawings, working together in compliment, that was probably the most unique part about it. Still, it might have became a bit of a mess, another reason why the Ide might be overlooking it all. Since none of it would be needed in further conversation, she made sure to clean up the stuff she'd brought, ensuring it was properly put away. Those drawings would further plans of creation when brought into action, like they always were, but that was neither here nor now.
Carmen
Khulan shook her head briefly.

"I believe I am satisfied, and grateful for your advice regarding the shrine," She answered graciously. "If there are further matters concerning it, or future projects, I will be sure to consult you."

She would have normally refilled the cup, but its emptiness and the concluding business seemed to indicate they were done for the day. Instead, she saw to assisting Sumire in setting her papers in order while separating them from the sketches she would show to the builders.

"But besides that," She added while adjusting the new shrine plans, "I'd like you to know that if you ever wish to meet for advice or simply to enjoy tea, you are always welcome to ask me."

As always, Khulan carried herself with a calm serenity and welcoming warmth. It was indeed a productive meeting, and she was glad that it went well; her cousin's advice regarding Sumire were hard-earned but on point.

Hopefully, her familiarity with the Clan and city would continue to grow, just as she hoped the shrine would help foster peace and understanding.

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Simonne
Concluding her packing up, she realized that she would then also be leaving as well. "I am thankful for your invitation, including this one just spent, and I hope your shrine efforts go well, along with the remainder of your day." She made sure to promptly bow, the usual spiel of formalities, though this time she was able to put down a majority of her stuff before doing so. The distinction was a lot more smooth than her arrival, but most of that was being on the opportune side of the door in doing so. After ensuring all of her stuff was gathered properly, she made sure to depart from the room, still giving another slight bow redundantly on leaving out of a habit of formality. It was fortunate that, with a supportive situation like this, she made no fumble on her way out.

Of course, she was still taking a lot with her, there was always the chance of fumbling with the door of her own room on arrival, but that would be the least of matters once she got there. She would have to make the most of such a rich discussion, taking input from the plans regarding the gates, there really was a lot to do and to gain from this. She would probably have to return to the bazaar with this knowledge as well, which itself would take a lot of planning.

But she did have to respect such a meeting from a respectable Ide. It had been a while since she'd worked with someone of that family, reminding her of her architectural studies with her teacher. Certainly a comfortable family to spend time with, which itself was yet another thing to consider.