Spring had come to the land, the cold bite of winter had long released its hold over the land. However, in the land of the Mitsumine, the mornings were still quite cold. With such a chilly breeze, like the breath of a Snow Woman on the back of the neck, a figure walked through the gardens of the so called Wolf's Den, Genrouuchi, minding not for a moment such unpleasantness or the little light of before dawn.



The man's name was Mitsumine Takeshi, a man of 34 years of age, and today he walked the familiar path to the ancient graves of his family clan... and towards two graves in particular, only twelve winters old. He made his prayers, burned incense and with it, a letter addressed to people who have long since passed from this world. He bid the God of Flames, the God of Breezes and any God that may be listening, to carry the words he burned, the ashes of his feelings towards the afterlife and the people he had lost so long ago.



Today was an important day, the beginning of a whole new era and a new way of living for Takeshi and his entire Clan. The man stood up from his prayers, looking back upon the home where he had lived for the last twelve years... and where the most important thing in the world for him now rested. Ryuunosuke was as ready as he could be and yet Takeshi's hand still grasped the hilt of blade, his weapon he brought everywhere, at the thought of letting him face what lie out there in the world. Politics, Bureaucrats, War, Warriors, Spies, Assassins... and dark things which roamed beyond the understanding of man. Such things were a given due to their position in this life... but the reason Takeshi worried so much was one he kept close to his heart. To the world, Mitsumine Daichi and his wife had died due to a traveling accident... however, Takeshi knew the truth. The two of them were assassinated... and by an enemy whose face he did not know. That was the most chilling part of it all... for as long as they were unknown, as their motives remained shrouded in mystery, every shadow could be hiding a murderer's blade.

Gritting his teeth in the darkness, Takeshi almost wished the moment of truth would come. Twelve years ago he had been a man of action, a straightforward being whose first instinct was to challenge whatever trouble he may face head-on. However, the years had given him patience... and while his paranoia nagged at him constantly, he had learned than living with such was much better than for the menace to strike... and to find himself unable, once more, to prevent the loss of those he loved. He would prepare... his blade always sharp and his mind keen, however, nothing would be best than for such worrying to have been unnecessary.

Still, today was not the time for such gloomy thoughts. The passes into the Mitsumine lands had been cleared for a few weeks now. Still, today was the moment when the Mitsumine called off their winter retreat and would be willing to host and meet emissaries from lands beyond their own. It was also the day where Takeshi stepped down as Head of the family and gave that honor to Ryuunosuke, as it was always meant to be.

Today he was a man, and as such, Takeshi smiled as he remembered the instructions he gave his staff. Chiyo, the head maid of the home and Takeshi's closest assistant would break the tradition of twelve years having woken up Ryuunosuke at the break of dawn. He was a man now, and as such, not to be set a schedule by his uncle. He would either rise early on his own, command a servant himself to wake him up from now on... or simply oversleep during the morning.

On the other hand, Nawabuta, the gatekeeper of Genrouuchi would be greeting the visitors to the old home and handing them over to Chiyo's maids to tend to their needs before Ryuunosuke was ready to meet up with them.

Takeshi on the other hand... he would be within easy reach should he be needed. On one of the inner courtyards, as he did every morning, he would be practicing his blade work.

Now, what shall be the fate of Ryuunosuke, Heir of the Mitsumine Clan, as he rest in the third room of the Wolf's Den Mansion?

Junkojuro leisurely strolled through one of the gardens with a watering can in hand, quenching the thirst of any parched roots or dried soil that he came across. He gave friendly nods to the few servants running their morning errands that he came across, but all they saw was a young groundskeeper in his early twenties tending to the foliage. Playing the part of every age had it's nuances, but he found that being a young man was the most enjoyable. He appeared just old enough so that people took his words seriously, and yet not so old that he would be criticized too harshly if he was found "wasting time." Plus, it was always amusing being called "lad" by the venerable folks who had barely lived one tenth as long as he had.

Junkojuro remembered planting the first seed in this garden. That seed was now a great Sakura tree that would fill the air with delicate pink petals once it bloomed. He had seen children dance in the pink flurry, then grow into lovers that sought privacy behind the trees trunk, then live out the rest of their days reading poetry in the cool shadows cast by the branches. That tree had been a part of many lives, and yet it was just a small part of Junkojuro's own life. He wondered how long the tree would remain standing over the first hole ever dug in this garden. Certainly not forever. All things wither and die; even the tallest mountains would one day lie on the ground as a pile of dust. Would he get to see that?

"A bit chilly for a morning stroll, isn't it Kojuro-San?" One of the servants interrupted his musings, but Junkojuro simply gave the man a friendly wave and continued tending to the plants. He was quiet in the mornings; gardening was a kind of meditation for him. After all, what better way to ponder the nature of life than by nurturing it? The servant had not abbreviated his name, it was simply a part of the role he played here in Genrouuchi. Mortals had two names, but Junkojuro had only one, so to better fit in he simply broke it in half for them. If he was to be playing the part of an old family of groundskeepers, it may as well be the Kojuro family, and if anybody needed to know, his name may as well be Jun. It was best to keep these things simple.

And so his "family" had tended these gardens most every morning for the past couple centuries, but for the past -- was it twelve years? It was so easy to lose count -- he had been in an awkward position. There was always at least one Mitsumine that knew that a fox prowled the grounds, but with the untimely passing of the previous lord, nobody was left to inherit that knowledge. The heir, Ryuunosuke, was but a child, and Takeshi was more concerned with raising a ruler than being a ruler himself. The man was good company, and a great Shogi player, but revealing his secret to him would be frivolous. Now, though, Ryuunosuke was being called a man -- funny how mortals were obsessed with arbitrarily assigning numbers to gradual things like growth -- so he would soon have to decide. Should he reveal himself once again to the Mitsumine family? Well, perhaps that depended on what kind of man this new heir was.

"I beg your pardon!" A cry split the early morning stillness, ringing bright and clear through the chill grey air. There was some muffled tapping, the sound of someone rapping on a wooden partition or door. After a few moments, the call came again. "I beg your pardon!"

Touka shuffled her feet slightly, her sandals sliding almost smooth against the cold grey stones of the road. They were beaten-up and old, nearly worn through; she would have to make a new pair later. The thought that it might be embarrassing to arrive here, at this particular place, with shabby and worn-out waraji crossed her mind briefly, and she snorted. If the human pup was to scorn her for something as trivial as her shoes, how shocked would the faces of the elders be when she returned and told them just where their misplaced faith had gone? How sweet would it be? If she was turned away here, she'd head back immediately, not even staying to rest a night or fix her sandals, not in this house. Well, maybe she'd steal the pup's. Let him feel just how horrible it was to have to walk with near-naked feet.

She raised her hand to knock again, rapping the same spot on the wooden gate. It was probably wood cut around here; she recognized the hard pine. "I beg your pardon," she shouted again, trying to mask her irritation. Times like this always gave her an upsetting little itch in the small of her back, and she stiffened, trying without much hope to scratch her own back with the weight of her obi. It was nice enough, a lovely orange and very soft, but it still didn't feel right. And again, dressing up for a pup! Maybe she could just deliver Grandma's letter and leave. No one would know the difference if she said she had been insulted at the gate - and really, being made to wait this long was an insult. She glanced back over her shoulder at the village below, much larger than her hometown. Smoke was just starting to waft up against the slate-grey sky; she sniffed and smelled cooking fish. She bit her lower lip.

Well, maybe she'd give them the opportunity to insult her over breakfast.

Today was a special day. After a night of some difficulty falling asleep due to the excitement, Ryuunosuke had woken a bit earlier than usual to the sounds of the birds chattering. He walked to his fusuma and slid it open. Ryuu took in the fresh, chilly air it refreshed his mind and removed any trace of the morning grogginess. There was much to do today. He was to grant audience to anyone who wished to communicate with the Mitsumine after the recent winter break. Then came the duty of leading his people in this new year. Ryuu was not naïve. He knew that the Daimyo’s influence and power had been declining in the last several years. In fact, some of the lords in the Wolf Clan were exhibiting signs of secession through a display of autonomy in the recent years. On top of that, who knew what the Tiger Clan was scheming. Its war-hawkish attitude was always a concern. Then there was always the political intrigue that occurred in the inner court. Anyone could try to sneak a blade into his own personal quarters.

Still, Ryuu would not yield to the challenges and threats that he faced. After all, he had a responsibility to the people who follow his rule to lead them and their future to prosperity and happiness. Thus, he walked back to his room and changed into his kimono, which wasn’t too flashy or bright. Rather, it was a reserved shade of blue, but the material that it was made out of was suitable for someone of his status. In fact, most of Ryuu’s clothing was like that. Simple in design, but made out of great material, his clothing made sure that he wasn’t pompous in appearance, but maintained his status. After all, this was the most cost effective measure. Why spend extra for something flashy when that extra could feed a family for a month? Such superficiality was frivolous and quite disgusting.

Once ready, Ryuu began to make his way to the Washitsu that served as the reception room. On the way he saw the gardener, Kojuro-san, working. Ryuu stopped and gave a quick, slight bow with his head. He then said “Fine day to be alive. Is it not Kojuro-san?” and continued on. Ryuu did not want to bother the man too much while he was diligently working. He finally entered the reception room. There Chiyo was ready and alert. She bowed, and Ryuu gave a slight bow as well. She had taken care of Ryuu for years now, and was the closest person to being a mother figure for Ryuu. There was much that Ryuu was ultimately in debt to. Not just to her, but all the servants of the Mitsumine played a part in bringing up Ryuu. For that, Ryuu was grateful, and he would never forget.

Ryuu walked to his mat and sat in seiza position. He then picked up a brush and some parchment and began writing. “My dearest Uncle, I am considering having a bit of a celebration. Nothing too flashy, a small feast would do. We would extend our invitation to everyone, including villagers. The feast would take place in the outer courtyard where I will be among them, give a small speech and interact freely. We would also offer a small offering to the gods and the spirits that protect the Mitsumine. But, also send a special invitation to the vassal lords of the clan. These lords would be entertained inside as to not offend them. After all, they would likely be offended to be grouped with the villagers. Then after a little bit in the feast, I would finally enter and join these lords for a more intimate meeting and see what they are like. The reasoning is fivefold. First, this celebration would help solidify my legitimacy in the eyes of the people. Two, the people will be fed good food just in time for the busy planting season. Three, the gods will hopefully be appeased. Four, I will know who among the vassal lords truly look down upon me for they will likely reject the personal invitation of their Daimyo. Therefore, I will know who are my enemies in this nation, and consider my powers as weak. Finally, I will be able to talk to the lords who do come and see what each of them are like and what the situations are like in each of their respective holdings. I seek your advice on this and would like your thoughts. I am sure that you worry about safety, but if needed, I am willing to spend some of the family coffers on the training and hiring of more guards for the manse.” Ryu folded the paper closed once he finished writing.

Ryuu then looked up at Chiyo and said “Would you deliver this to my dear Uncle? Oh and send the first person who seeks an audience with me in as well, please.” He then put back his writing materials in their place and settled down. Today was going to be a long day, but Ryuu was looking forward to it. After all, many people struggled for decades just for Ryuu to do what he was about to do now, lead the clan.

"Yes, yes, yes, coming coming!" says a voice behind the wooden door in answer to Touka's insistent knocking. Soon enough, the gate opened up and behind it a talk, lanky built man in a simple yet finely made blue kimono, with a dagger sheathed at his waist. The man had a sharp looking face, with a big forehead and keen looking eyes. His hair was tied up in a knot and had a bit of grey in it "Good morning, young lady. What may I help you with?"

---

"But of course, Ryuunosuke-sama" says Chiyo, bowing respectfully though the woman smiled with easy familiarity at the young man she had cared for so long. The way of address was unfamiliar... she usually called him botchan or Ryuu-kun on specially close situations. However, it seems like in his new position, Chiyo is awarding him a more respectful way of address "Already hard at work? You've been quite eager for this day... however, don't forget to take care of yourself. Breakfast is ready and waiting for you"

The woman was around 34 years old, somewhat pretty though in a motherly sort of way despite never having children or a husband. Her hands were calloused from hard work, though their touch was kind and tender which reflected upon the fruits of her labor. Her dark brown hair was kept somewhat short and tied up into a bun "You got a moment to relax yet, nobody has arrived yet... though I think our useless guardsman was just going to check on the front door now"

Ryuunosuke looked at Chiyo and remained silent for a few seconds. "Sama?" He thought to himself. It sounded so foreign to him especially coming from Chiyo. He then could not help but to start chuckling. He said outloud "Of course. Breakfast, the most important meal of the day. How could I forget? Well, to be honest, I do not think I could eat a full meal. It would be uncomfortable to work with a full stomach. Hmm, I suppose I will settle with a light meal."

Then again Ryuu thought "What if someone has just arrived? I would not want to keep them waiting." He turned his attention back to Chiyo and said "Chiyo-san, could I take the liberty to make another request? Would you mind setting up the table here for two people? I'm sure that if anyone is coming this early they will have yet to eat as well. Maybe they have forgotten as I have." He then took a deep breath. It was a bit worrying that Ryuu forgot about eating that morning. How could he forget about eating? How would anyone expect him to be able to take care of his people if he can't even take care of himself? Ryuu shook his head. He knew that he should not become obsessed over this mistake. Rather this was the first lesson of many in his role as Daimyo.

"Spring is so beautiful, right, Hatamoto-dono?" a retainer asked as the trio neared the wooden gates of the Mitsumine clan. It has been three moons since they departed from the Boar Clan. For some, the head of the clan actually planned it out. Sending the heir during a blistering winter was all too convenient for an accidental death. However, with no evidence, comes no case. The party contained six people, but as of present, only three remain. Enduring freezing winds, and biting frosts, it was still a miracle that the rumored 'weak' heir was alive. The heir, Kitsune Hatamoto, had already expected this kind of move. If his father intended to kill him, well, this would be the perfect method. Kitsune is well aware of the clan's disdain for him, and just the mere thought of not even giving him a horse to travel upon was evidence enough of their loathing. Why was he loathed? Simple, he was weak. Kitsune couldn't even hold a blade when most boys could already swing them, and worse, he didn't share their passion for combat. The young lad preferred a more relaxing environment.

"Indeed it is, Shibata-san." Kitsune replied, his blue kimono sustaining multiple small tatters due to the recent harsh climate. They marched on as they finally stood behind the wooden gates. The trio, Kitsune and his retainers, stopped as they looked at each other.

"Hatamoto-dono, can we really trust the Mitsumine? They were our enemies in the past." Shibata, his closest retainer, inquired.

"Shibata-san, even if they did take me hostage... My father would just laugh it off. First, he would be happy that I wouldn't be able to return home, and second, I heard that they have a new heir. It was Ryuunosuke-dono, if I am not mistaken." Kitsune shrugged the thoughts off as he looked at the untouched katana at his side.

The trio approached the gate as Kitsune saw a woman, talking with the apparent gatekeeper, at the gate. "What could she possibly be doing, Hatamoto-dono?" Shibata inquired once more.

"I have no idea." Kitsune replied quickly as he approached the gate as well. "It might not be polite to disturb their conversation, but just in case, we'll just be in plain sight." Kitsune suggested as he stopped walking.

One of the other retainers began to complain. "You're the heir of the Boar Clan, Hatamoto-san! The Boar Clan, the close ally of the Mitsumine! You have every right to just interject their conversation. That's only a woman; you're the HEIR."

"Silence, Akechi-san. Outside of the Boar Clan, I am merely a guest. Nothing more, nothing less." Hatamoto rebuked the impatient retainer as he took out an elixir and drank a little from it, merely waiting for the conversation to end.

"I come... seeking an audience with the new heir of the Mitsumine," Touka explained, somewhat sniffily. She tried not to fidget in place as a chilly breeze swept across the somewhat raised road; she'd been born in the mountains, damnit, even further north than this. These soft, southern townspeople didn't know what real cold felt like. Admittedly, the silk of her kimono felt like ice water in the chilly air... at least the long sleeves hid her goosebumps. She held out the bundle of silk cloth, wrapped in watercloth to protect it from the elements. "I bring gifts and a letter from the Hakurou elders of Matsusaka for Mitsumine Takeshi." She purposefully left the honorific off of the regent's name. She had been too young to remember the previous Daimyo when he died, but she knew plenty of Takeshi. A leader who retreated into a cage of luxury at the first sign of danger, lying idle, waiting for the day he could fob off his duties onto his brother's pup. Truly there were those born to lead, and those born to follow. She didn't know what was in the letter - oh, it had been tempting a few times, at night by the fire as she huddled her cloak close around her and cursed the elders and the Mitsumine both and wondered what on earth was worth the trip. But no; that respect she'd give her Grandmother, if not the humans. "May I come in?"

"That will be no problem at all, Ryuunosuke-sama" says Chiyo with a smile, clapping her hands twice to cause a sudden explosion of motion. The doors to the room opened and a serving girl walked in carrying a big tray set with all manner of breakfast dishes. Ryuu could see another one hurrying over down the hall, probably to fetch the table and someone to help carry it.

In no time at all, a breakfast table for two (though there was truly enough food for four at the least to have a simple breakfast) was set up in Ryuunosuke's reception room. Such was the efficiency of Chiyo's work. With a smile, she held his letter in between two fingers "Well then, feel free to start your meal, Ryuunosuke-sama. I shall deliver this to Takeshi-sama. If there is a visitor already, I'll be sure to send them your way as well"

With those simple words and her trademark smile, Chiyo started to march, graceful as always, down the hall to do as she said.

---

"Matsusaka, eh? A long, hard way to go for a single young lady on foot" says Nawabuta as his keen eyes take notice of the worn sandals of the otherwise impeccably dressed girl "Come on in right then, I'd be criminal of me to let you stand on the cold a moment more, young lady"

With that, the guard stepped out of the way and let his subordinate guide Touka inside as Nawabuta looked at the road and a good number of people walking up from it. Seems like today was going to be a long day.

---

Not long afterwards, a few steps into the big cozy mansion, Touka would cross paths with Chiyo. The woman was nice with the girl and was quick to provide some comfortable slippers to walk in the house with. She offered to have her shoes mended or get her a new pair and when she learned of the letter, offered to take it to Takeshi. Then she spoke of a breakfast table and a certain heir waiting at it for the first person to meet him. She had another girl guide Touka to Ryu's reception room if she wished to meet right away... otherwise, she would guide her to a comfortable and warm room to wait for a turn to speak with Ryuu.

---

If Hatamoto Kitsune looked back down the road he walked to the Wolf's Den, he would see numerous parties making their way towards the mansion. One carried the flag of the Horse Clan, another one that of the Dragon. One flew no flag and was the smallest contingent of them all. And a final one... he would be surprised to fly the flag of the Boar, of the Hatamoto Clan. Riding at the front was one of his very own uncles.

"Phew... they really are coming along" says Nawabuta as he looks to the distance. Still, Kitsune and his party still had time to speak with the guard before the others arrived.

And so it was that, a mere hour after waking up that morning in a small, cold and dirty travelers' hostel, Touka found herself kneeling in a wide and luxurious hallway, her feet nice and warm in soft slippers, waiting to meet the heir of the Mitsumine clan. The maid, Chiyo, had been very gracious, and while it had felt strange to finally hand over the letter she'd been keeping against her chest for the entire long trip, it was a relief in a sense, as well. She cleared her throat behind the screen, loudly. Time to get this over with.

---

When Takeshi received the letter from Chiyo, he would notice two things about it. The first was the familiar hand the address was written in - Hakurou Anko's graceful and sweeping penmanship hadn't changed. The second was the red wax seal. The 白狼 impression was a little bit blurred, as if it had melted gently, and a tiny bit chipped, as though someone had half-heartedly tried to pry it open but given up. Still, the seal was intact.

Hana stepped onto the grounds of the Mitsumine manor with mild trepidation. It was an honor to represent the capital branch family of the Mitsumine and the family's master of coin indeed, but this was new ground of her. She had heard little of the new heir or what kind of man he was. And it was master Tenzin's order to assess this heir and report back, and if necessary to educate.

Walking up to the gate and knocking softly three times, she then turned to her shoulderbag and shuffled around its contents to remove a few key items. The first was a letter from Master Tenzin to the young heir to recognize his coronation and to explain that the crimson-clad woman was sent in his stead due to age preventing him from leaving the capital, and that she was also here to assist his ascent to power. The second was a personal gift for the lord, a bound book summary of the lands he was to inherit, to better appreciate. The third was one of Hana's private red-covered books, containing her greatest pride and secret. To share it or not to share with her lord? That was the question.

Well, she was looking forward to learning the answers. If she could find them in the midst of all the other envoys to greet the new lord that is.

Ryuunosuke continued to sit in seiza as the table was set up quickly. In fact, it was quite impressive to see the efficiency with which the maids worked. Without a doubt, they were all used to these movements, and their level of expertise was desirable of anyone who claims to have a profession. Soon after, he found himself in a quiet room again as Chiyo left to oversee other duties. But this silence was soon interrupted when one of the servants came and announced “Ryuunosuke-dono, your first visitor has arrived.” Then a split second later came the sound of someone clearing his throat. Ryuu nodded and said “Open the fusuma, please.” The servant bowed towards Ryuunosuke and walked over to the fusuma. He began to slide it open. The first glimpse that Ryuu got of the vistor… was a bit of a surprise. With a bright, vivid orange kimono, the person before him was a young lady. He had honestly had somewhat of an expectation that most of the people that he would meet would be adult males on the more aged side. So, Ryuu’s first visitor was a bit of a surprise.

He couldn’t help studying the visitor’s appearance a little bit. She had long black hair and dark eyes. There wasn’t anything very unnatural about her appearance, but for some reason Ryuu was getting a strange vibe from this young lady. He couldn’t pinpoint why, but he continued to look. That is until he realized that a few seconds had already passed in silence, and that it was extremely rude to maintain this silence. Thus, he looked at the young woman in the eyes with a smile and said “Welcome madam, I am Mitsumine Ryuunosuke. I am sure that you have had quite a long journey in order to come here. And for you to come this early, I suspect that you have not had breakfast yet. Would you care to join me and we can discuss matters over a warm meal and a nice cup of tea, Miss?”

"A long journey indeed," Touka replied, nodding agreement. Her speech was lightly accented to Ryuunosuke's ears, and a bit archaic as well. "Breakfast would be welcome, if you care to offer it, but first I will introduce myself." She bowed slightly, placing her hands just so on the springy tatami. "I am Touka of the Hakurou, of the north reaches of your land. My elders bade me come deliver their respects to the new lord of the Mitsumine." She placed the watercloth-wrapped bundle of silks just inside the door. "Gifts, to represent our continued friendship."

As she spoke the words her parents had coached her with, Touka sized up the young lord. He was fairly well-appointed, that much at least was sure, with dark hair and an intelligent look. If the pup resembled either of his parents, it was little wonder Uzume had always been such a staunch supporter of close relations with them. She stood carefully and stepped inside the room, her soft slippers (so very soft!) sliding across the tatami with a quiet rushing sound. Kneeling across the table from the pup, she tucked back her furisode and folded her hands in her lap. "So, you are the new lord?"

Mitsumine Kanaka swept the shrine clean of stray leaves, possibly for the last time. Today would be the day her esteemed Ryuunosuke-oniisama took the position of Daimyo. As the daughter of the previous lord, and sister to the current lord-to-be, Kanaka had never had the opportunity to be 'just another miko' like the other girls here as much as she had wanted to. The head priest always treated her with more respect than she felt she had earned, and less harshness than the others. The others, if they harbored jealousy at this preferential treatment, kept it to themselves, and remained cordial and distant. It didn't matter. Kanaka did not become a miko to make friends. She came to acquire power and to preserve her purity. Power that came with communing with the unseen, and purity from politics. As she was 'only the sister to the heir' and not the heir himself, she had felt it was not her place to carry on with the political goings-on of the clan in the absence of her brother and Takeshi-ojisama. At any rate, she was too young to be taken seriously. However, though she would maintain her ties to the shrine, she had resolved to enter the fray alongside her brother, to see the things he could not: both the supernatural as well as the false intentions and ulterior motives hidden behind the smiling faces of diplomats; she would finally enter the hideous and dirty world of politics. In a world where human lives were the currency with which power was bought and sold, she knew her place; to the clan and to her brother she was...an asset...and she had long ago prepared for herself to be used...and traded...if it came to that.

A sudden breeze seemed to blow in out of nowhere, pulling Kanaka out of her introspection. Something had entered. Kanaka was already having trouble trying to figure out and deal with the well-hidden presence that already lurked the grounds, but now another significantly less skilled presence had been allowed through the gates and past the detection wards the shrine had placed around Genrouuchi. "Is the spirit world so interested in our affairs?" Kanaka wondered.

Kanaka walked with resolve towards the Reception Room where her brother was having his breakfast set up. "Please announce that I am here to speak with my brother about an urgent matter," Kanaka requested of one of the busy maids. However, one of the maids told her that the young master was already meeting with a delegate. Kanaka then decided to seat herself behind one of the sliding doors out of view and listen in on the conversation. She could sense the spiritual presence through the door and instead of trying to hide her own presence, she projected it out to make it known that here was someone with some spiritual awareness. Though not necessarily as an act of aggression, this would, for those with ill-intent, serve as a warning that they were being watched, and, for those with good intentions, serve as an invitation and sign of respect that the Mitsumine Clan cares enough about the spirit world to have those trained in spiritual awareness, unlike some clans which don't believe in spirits at all. How this act of spiritual projection was taken, however, depended entirely on the personality of the spirit on the other side of the door.

Kitsune's eyes opened as the woman was allowed to enter through the gates. The young heir smiled as he began to walk towards the gate when suddenly, Shibata tugged his sleeves.

"Hatamoto-dono... Look." the retainer said in a grim tone as Kitsune spun around and saw the different banners of the clans from a distance. The banners didn't surprise him. What surprised him was the familiar banner of the Boar led by one his uncles. Kitsune's face turned into a frown as he remembered the deeds of that person. If his father didn't like him, then that uncle didn't more. That uncle wanted his son to be the next heir instead of Kitsune, so seeing him here would be quite awkward. Perhaps that man expected Kitsune to be dead by now, but boy, was he in for a surprise.

The young heir wasn't really in a receptive mood for his kin, so he walked hastily to the gate where he saw Nawabuta, the gatekeeper.

"Good morning, Nawabuta-san." Kitsune greeted the tall man, remembering the keeper's name from his mentor's instructions. "May we be allowed to enter? My name is Hatamoto Kitsune of the Boar Clan. I came to bear gifts, and to seek an audience with the young lord Mitsumine Ryuunosuke-dono." Kitsune gently smiled as he tried to be calm and composed. However, the look of urgency was evident on his face, his eyes kept darting to the incoming Boar banner, and his face was uncomfortable. Kitsune prayed that Nawabuta wouldn't notice his urgency, but between seeing his uncle today, or walking again through the blizzard, Kitsune would choose the latter in a heartbeat.

Junkojuro's morning ruminations did not remain peaceful for long. Nobody in particular had disturbed him -- directly anyway -- but it was clear to the fox that today would be a very busy day for the young lord. The several diplomats, though they traveled peacefully and respectfully, inevitably disturbed the routines of the nearby animals. The servants rushed about, their greetings more brief and curt than usual due not only to the sudden necessity of their services but also to their eagerness to please a new master. Of course, so far as he could see, there were no malign intentions in these people, but he felt the change of pace deeper than the average mortal. However, the feeling that really surged through his veins, though, was the changing of fortune. It would be challenging for Ryuunosuke to make his most important decisions in his youth, but fate had already cast the dice, and even the fox would be unsure how they would land. He always liked to inform the lord whenever his fortune was in such a state, but today Ryuunosuke would have his hands full; cryptic warnings would be a needless distraction.

Junkojuro finished his rounds in the garden and was putting away his watering can when a sensation that could only be described as a sharpening of his sixth sense came over him. Messenger foxes had told him that a wolf from the Hakuro clan would be visiting. Was this her? Well... it seemed she was here, but that's not what this sensation was. It wasn't simply the raw essence of a spirit; there was a sort of duality to this sensation. A warning? An invitation? Ah, it was both. The sender of the message was good at covering bases, thwarting threats while simultaneously avoiding unnecessary conflict; lesser spirits would likely only feel one sensation or another. But that raised one burning question: who was the sender? Junkojuro made it a point to keep his distance from shrines, but this sensation made it seem as if he was standing before a set of red arches. Were the priests and priestesses going to involve themselves with the politics of the new lord? That would be unlikely, especially this time of year, but that prickling on his neck was unmistakable.

Junkojuro picked up his watering can once again, refilled it, and began walking to the courtyard nearest the main building where Ryuunosuke was holding his audiences, and coincidentally where that message had originated from. It had been a long time since he had a good spiritual conversation with a mortal, even long since he had a friendly one. "Oh, Kojuro-San, did you forget something?" a curious servant asked, noting the groundskeeper's unusually quick pace.

"Quite the opposite," Junkojuro replied. "It seems I've found something."

Before long, he was behind the reception room, about as close to the source of the message as he could get without actually entering. That was the easy part; now he had to decide how to reply. Ought he simply enter the room and outright reveal himself? A human that could give off such an aura would no doubt see through his disguise with one good look. He certainly didn't want to threaten the human, but did he want it to be known just how powerful he was? Perhaps a little glimpse, just enough to make him think there was more than a lowly imp wandering about; just enough to make him curious...

And so, he began to gather a wisp of foxfire in his hand, the pale blue flame invisible to any mortals that would be passing by. He projected his thoughts, his emotions, his soul, into the flame, and once the balance was just right, he snapped his hand shut. The sensation that pulsed from his palm would be utterly unnoticed by most mortals, but those with "the sight" would feel little else for a brief moment. His message was decisive, not ambivalent as was Kanaka's. He let his spiritual strength be felt, but did not intend to overwhelm; it was not so much like the forceful crashing of an ocean wave as it was the gentle pull of a wave's recession. There was a strong will in the message, one fitting a a creature that had spent 400 years protecting these lands, but there was not a shred of aggression. And finally, if this person was willing to listen, to absorb everything he had to say, they would find at the center of it all kindness, a warm welcome to compliment the one that had just been sent. He realized that the Hakuro wolf would likely be able to feel this too, as would any other hapless spirit that happened to be wandering by, but that was all for the better. Perhaps it would be comforting for the wolf to know that she wasn't the only Youkai in the Wolf's Den.

"Yes, yes... everything seems to be in order young Kitsune... I've heard of you. Please, do come inside" Says Nawabuta... though soon, he sees on the distance the approach of the other parties... his eyes opening up wide "Boy, boy... it seems like today will be quite a busy day"

Nawabuta also inspected Hana's credentials as she reached the gate before the other parties. With a smile, that gatekeeper instructed her to step inside where Kitsune was waiting "If you don't mind, could I ask you two to wait for our young Master in the same room? Seeing what is coming, there may be need for more rooms to entertain than we have prepared right at the moment"

If the two of them agreed, then a guard would guide Kitsune and Hana together to a cozy waiting room, sparsely decorated but suitable for entertaining guests. A maid would make rounds soon enough, asking if they wished for anything and serving them tea regardless. At the very least they would be comfortable... and if they wished for conversation, they could indulge in it while they waited.

---

"My, my... I'm already missing the quietness of winter" Says Takeshi with a small grin on his face as he pours over the contents of two letters and he couldn't tell which one was more outrageous!

"The whole world flutters at the crowning of a new lord it seems" says Chiyo, smiling though with a bit of worry to her features.

"Yes, and it is up to his good judgment and ours to determine the friends from... those who are not" Says Takeshi as he wipes the sweat off his brow, cleaning himself upon a small container full of water to make himself presentable for those who he would be meeting "I better prepare to help out my nephew"

"Yes, Takeshi-sama... my girls are already telling me that we'll be nearly at full capacity soon enough... so many visitors. We must be careful not to insult anyone" says Chiyo as she prepares herself to settle everyone.

"I think it's more of a matter of picking well who it is that we may insult this morning... everyone will be wanting to be received first. Some will take it better than others. I must advice Ryuu so that he may make the best decision possible"

Ryuunosuke nodded and said "Indeed I am." He then reached over to the tea pot and began pouring some tea for Touka personally. After all, she was his guest. He then began to pour some for himself and said "I am grateful for the gift from the Hakurou clan and that our friendship between the two families have existed so long. I am fully aware of the contributions that the Hakurou clan makes in the north in regards to preserving the sanctity of the shrines in that region. I am sure it is a daunting task. So, please feel free to ask anything of me if it will help the Hakurou, and I will try within my power and reason to see that it is fulfilled." Ryuu took a sip of his tea and then continued to say "Now then. There must be some specific reason that you wanted to see me. How am I able to help you?"

Kitsune bowed to Nawabuta as he motioned for his retainers to follow him. "That's more than enough, Nawabuta-san. Thank you." Kitsune replied to the gatekeeper's offer as he looked at the woman he was supposed to be waiting with. She was beautiful with a red kimono, and basing on those looks, she was probably popular among men. The young heir averted his gaze as he went back examining the Mitsumine environment. Truly, their land was bountiful of the earth. Kitsune sighed as he somewhat compared the Boar to the Mitsumine... These people were experiencing peace; such peace, meanwhile, their land was always vigilant and watchful. While the people here were carrying flowers and tea, the Boar Clan were always carrying katanas and tantos even when they take a bath.

"Tell me, Shibata-san... Would the Boar experience this kind of peace? Where people actually go to their land, not to wage war, but to visit?" Kitsune mumbled to his retainers.

"I believe that once you become the leader of the Boar, we will prosper, Hatamoto-dono." one of the retainers answered as Kitsune smiled.

"If you keep up with this weak attitude, Hatamoto-san, even our fiercest warriors will desert you." the other retainer added as that statement wiped out Kitsune's grin.

"Akechi-san! Speak not of Hatamoto-dono in that manner! You know he was born with a weak fortitude and body. It's already a proof of his strength that he survived that harsh winter, when Ishiyama-san, the strongest retainer, perished beneath frost and ice." Shibata, a retainer, rebuked the disrespectful partner.

"Cool your tongues, my friends." Kitsune ordered as he turned to his retainers with a smile. "We are not here to bring ill-will, but to meet with the new leader of the Mitsumine." the young heir sighed as he turned to the woman in front of him.

"Greetings, ojou-san. Pardon me for the inconvenience of having to share a single meeting room. If you don't mind, I'd be glad to allow you to meet with Mitsumine Ryuunosuke-dono first, before I would seek his audience." Kitsune nodded to the lady. "Oh, pardon me for my manners. My name is Hatamoto Kitsune, a visitor."

Touka reached for the offered tea, but midway through the motion she stiffened. A presence was looming somewhere just outside the room, listening to the conversation - and making their power quite obvious. It wasn't the careless unveiling of an untrained amateur, either - no, the presence had simply appeared, right outside the door. A calculated move, then - one calculated to intimidate, perhaps? The watcher had unveiled him- or herself right as the pup lordling had mentioned her family. Her lower back started to itch again, and she straightened back up without touching the tea. "You are polite for someone allowing eavesdroppers on your guests," she said sharply.