"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 [i]furisode[/i] and folded her hands in her lap. "So, you are the new lord?"