[Day 1 - Early Evening] Making an Impression, Koi Pond Area (RP thread)

[Kakita Hiroki]

"You are kindness itself to say so! I will immediately request one to be made in your size, though I think gold instead of silver! Yes, gold!" He literally patted himself on the back before adopting a more serious mein.

"This one knows the work of an idol is never mere anything. My mother owns and operates a dance studio in Toshi Ranbo which gives me a unique look into the life and struggle of actors, idols, and professional dancers. Many hundreds of hours go into every minute of a performance." The Otomo began to dance a little to music only he could hear but stopped himself before he punched the Kakita with a fist.

"You look familiar. Have you ever visited Toshi Ranbo?" He asked, adjusting his suit jacket again after the little twirl.

Not even years of working with Hinata could have prepared Ki-kun for this . . . oh wait, is this the Otomo Ta-kun had met on the World of Dreams . . . ? Eventually he'd realise the Otomo had just promised to send an outfit of equal . . . . colour to him, but for now he was stunned enough to turn on the time honoured defensive Crane politeness.

"Oh no, Otomo-sama. I've never actually stood on the Homeworld. We did do a concert in orbit once but we didn't have time for a landing before we had to be back to Crane space for the next gig. Oh, maybe you say that? It was part of a series of Crane offerings to the people of the homeworld and Usagi Drop! was one of the headliners for it.

[Otomo Koroshi]

Not even years of working with Hinata could have prepared Ki-kun for this . . . oh wait, is this the Otomo Ta-kun had met on the World of Dreams . . . ? Eventually he'd realise the Otomo had just promised to send an outfit of equal . . . . colour to him, but for now he was stunned enough to turn on the time honoured defensive Crane politeness.

"Oh no, Otomo-sama. I've never actually stood on the Homeworld. We did do a concert in orbit once but we didn't have time for a landing before we had to be back to Crane space for the next gig. Oh, maybe you say that? It was part of a series of Crane offerings to the people of the homeworld and Usagi Drop! was one of the headliners for it.

"Usagi Drop! Yes, that is it! You are the second member of your group I had the fortune of meeting! A thousand blessings to all the ancestors, a million prayers to the Fortunes!" Koroshi did a quick move from the most recent Usagi Drop! music video to show his support for the artist after crying to the heavens about his great fortune.

"Please accept my apologies for not recognizing your greatness. Would you be willing to give me your autograph?" The Otomo began to pat himself down to find his writing implements. Once a pen was found he would push his bangs back and crouch while pointing at his forehead. "Write here please!"

[Yasuki Kaito]

-

Kaito looked unsure for a moment, seemingly having Kisha come up with a stroke of a good idea when it came to draw-lot plays. Admittedly, he meant more as an analogy. He personally thought draw lot plays were something best reserved for older Crabs more than a few decades older than his age, or for those Crab who lived in distant settlements.

Then again, the Crab of the mainland considered the Tango Province a 'settlement'...

He gave a slow nod at that. "...Yeah, that's a pretty good idea, Miya-san. There are sometimes seasonal specials on the Silver Fin channels when they get celebrities of old together to practice the tradition on the "live" informator. I know it's typically a good hit with most people, around new years, the Kisada festival and so forth. It really gets my grandmother talking over the communicator. I'd be more than willing to meet over this idea. Any, potentially several others too."

"Hey, get me umeshu and make sure it's the alcoholic one," he would tell the same person holding the plate.

He nodded appreciatively at the explanation of Kisha's platform. "Since you're so flexible, are you doing any sort of reporting or interviewing? The Silver Fin has already their reporters, but it would help to get as many different eyes here as possible. That used to be my wheelhouse, actually, but that's something I'm more than willing to lend my expertise, maybe even provide a source or two."

[Kitsune Soratoshi]

Walking amongst the people the small Lioness in a not so fancy kimono. She knew that people might put on their fancy wares and she didn't want to compete. She in these event didn't want to call much attention by wearing all bells and whistles. She followed protocols of greeting people.

/tag or quote if approached

After satisfactorily completing his gift presentation, Soratoshi spied the petite Lion amidst the crowd. Given the close alliance between Fox and Lion, the sons and daughters of Akodo were some of his highest priorities for connections during this trip, so he wasted no time in moving towards her, catching her eye when she was in between other conversations.

"Good evening, Lion-sama," Soratoshi said pleasantly, bowing his head and presenting one of his finely crafted business cards*. "This one is Kitsune Soratoshi, of Kitsune Bio-pharmaticals. I am very pleased to make your acquaintance." His voice was warm and his smile indicated he meant it, although there was a tinge to his words that almost sounded like he was reading them from a script.

------
OOC: The business card is fairly typical on its front, listing his name, role as an "engineer and investment consultant" and how to reach him by communicator. On its back, however, is a foil-art style naturescape, which could show the edge of a sunny meadow on any number of planets, but in this one - very subtly peeking from hiding behind a fallen log - is a shaggy, long-tusked boar.

[Miya Kisha]

snip

The question catches Kisha with her mouth full, so there is a moment of nodding and hurried swallowing before she responds "I'm hoping to do so. I managed to get a good slice-of-life piece coming into the planet, interviewing an up-and-coming doshin. I've been taking a few photos here, too, and have been drone-cording as I've had opportunity. The rain kind of hindered some of that, though, more's the pity. But it's always better to have more to work from than less; easier to cut than build up, as they say."

Which "they" is referenced here is an open question, but Kisha's sure to have heard something like that somewhere or other.

"And one of the good things about being in my position is that I can bring in other perspectives without raising too many hackles. Some folks just get so prickly about things, you know.

"So, yeah, I'd be interested in putting that into the discussion, as well, when we meet again. And about that," Kisha continues, "do you have a preferred time or place in mind. Please treat me well; I put my visiting self in your well informed care for this."

[Asako Hikari]

Money noises, but crab-themed

Finishing off the meat and vegetable skewer, Hikari ponders Taraka's explanation with a thoughtful look. "Sounds like it has scalability, a good way to keep people in line via the honor system, and community-based enforcement. As long as you can keep up with product it sounds like a strong project. People love passion projects and hobbies and this sounds like an excellent one, especially if you offer some level of customization to the FBCs."

As she mentions the rule tomfoolery, he gives a bit of a sigh and nods. "There will always be people looking for every advantage they can get. Just have to make sure to get a steely-eyed referee to dissuade." Another sip from his water before he lightly strokes his beard. "Where is your place of business here on world? I'd like to stop by and take a look at the drones if I may? Even if it turns out not to be for me, I would be glad to offer my assistance in finding investors or potential players. You'd be surprised what courtiers get up to in Winter Courts when they're looking for something new...and Yasuki-san offers wise words yet again. Are you sure you are not a Dragon, to offer such pearls of enlightenment to those in need?"

[Yasuki Kaito]

The question catches Kisha with her mouth full, so there is a moment of nodding and hurried swallowing before she responds "I'm hoping to do so. I managed to get a good slice-of-life piece coming into the planet, interviewing an up-and-coming doshin. I've been taking a few photos here, too, and have been drone-cording as I've had opportunity. The rain kind of hindered some of that, though, more's the pity. But it's always better to have more to work from than less; easier to cut than build up, as they say."

Which "they" is referenced here is an open question, but Kisha's sure to have heard something like that somewhere or other.

"And one of the good things about being in my position is that I can bring in other perspectives without raising too many hackles. Some folks just get so prickly about things, you know.

"So, yeah, I'd be interested in putting that into the discussion, as well, when we meet again. And about that," Kisha continues, "do you have a preferred time or place in mind. Please treat me well; I put my visiting self in your well informed care for this."

Kaito gave a few slow nods and looked off, giving her a moment. His gaze went to Umiko for a moment, who was busy with two other samurai. He merely gave her a nod at a distance, to which she offered a momentary glance and a returned nod.

"Oh, good, here I was wondering if anyone was going to be overlooking the opportunity to get a piece of everyone's voice at the gathering. It's something of a micro-Winter Court here, especially since we've even allowed Spider on our surface. I'm sure you'll get some interesting pieces by the end of your stay," he said while his gaze hovered elsewhere. At first, he assumed the average age of the crowd was going to be 40, but that didn't seem like the case. If they were, then it would be slightly less likely they would be attempting to rizz the governor.

"I think you also have the Imperial advantage working in your favour too, of course. People are more willing to hear out a Miya voice first and foremost. People can't soon forget centuries of Starlight Miko Crusaders," he snickered at that thought. "Consider me your guide to Shiawase Island then, Miya-san. As for the meeting, I'm good for either tomorrow or the day after? Later afternoon and forward, Tama Izakaya has some pretty good hot tables going for grilling, on my tab. What do you say?"

[Yasuki Taraka]

Finishing off the meat and vegetable skewer, Hikari ponders Taraka's explanation with a thoughtful look. "Sounds like it has scalability, a good way to keep people in line via the honor system, and community-based enforcement. As long as you can keep up with product it sounds like a strong project. People love passion projects and hobbies and this sounds like an excellent one, especially if you offer some level of customization to the FBCs."

As she mentions the rule tomfoolery, he gives a bit of a sigh and nods. "There will always be people looking for every advantage they can get. Just have to make sure to get a steely-eyed referee to dissuade." Another sip from his water before he lightly strokes his beard. "Where is your place of business here on world? I'd like to stop by and take a look at the drones if I may? Even if it turns out not to be for me, I would be glad to offer my assistance in finding investors or potential players. You'd be surprised what courtiers get up to in Winter Courts when they're looking for something new...and Yasuki-san offers wise words yet again. Are you sure you are not a Dragon, to offer such pearls of enlightenment to those in need?"

That got a small laugh out of Taraka.

"If you climbed a mountain to get to me for wisdom, Asako-san, I'm not sure your sense of direction will be able to process any directions to the store I might give you. But we are on Golden Shotengai. If you find yourself struggling to find it, feel free to contact me on the number on the card. You are welcome to visit in any capacity: customer, investor, or booster." she offers in good humor.

She considered taking an appetizer, but rejected the notion.

"Or if you need any other insights from a local, feel free to reach out. I'll look up the worst restaurant for you, just so you know we're being honest with you." she added.

[Ikoma Nonoko]

After satisfactorily completing his gift presentation, Soratoshi spied the petite Lion amidst the crowd. Given the close alliance between Fox and Lion, the sons and daughters of Akodo were some of his highest priorities for connections during this trip, so he wasted no time in moving towards her, catching her eye when she was in between other conversations.

"Good evening, Lion-sama," Soratoshi said pleasantly, bowing his head and presenting one of his finely crafted business cards*. "This one is Kitsune Soratoshi, of Kitsune Bio-pharmaticals. I am very pleased to make your acquaintance." His voice was warm and his smile indicated he meant it, although there was a tinge to his words that almost sounded like he was reading them from a script.

------
OOC: The business card is fairly typical on its front, listing his name, role as an "engineer and investment consultant" and how to reach him by communicator. On its back, however, is a foil-art style naturescape, which could show the edge of a sunny meadow on any number of planets, but in this one - very subtly peeking from hiding behind a fallen log - is a shaggy, long-tusked boar.

The petite Ikoma took the card with both hands executing the traditional etiquette when a card was presented. "Thank you Kitsune san. I am honored to have such card." The Lion smiled. "This one is Ikoma Nonoko from The Kitsu Storm gaming company. It is an honor to meet you. I hope you have had the blessings of Inari on this evening. " The girl smiled.

[Kuni Iwane]

---

Kanna on the other hand sipped more drink through the straw in her can of Kaiu Cola. "Oh, I didn't know the Crab were so traditional! I saw all the big weapons and stuff and thought you were more... non-traditional?" she wasn't quite sure how to put it into words.

"The aesthetic services are for skincare, wellness, beauty, and health. A lot of the usual stuff you will find at a spa - facials, massages - with a focus on traditional treatments in a place of calm - a samurai with a centered mind and spirit can accomplish more! In our main location, we have aestheticians for beauty appointments, instructors for exercises, dermatologists for skin health and treatments, and masseurs for massages. Our brand name comes from the traditional use of mugwort in medicine and herbal treatments, and it's a signature ingredient for the products we use."

For a moment, Iwane paused to wonder if Kanna had mujina ancestry. In theory, mujina were not known to be able to interbreed with humans. However, he had no other apparent explanation for her character. "Weapons are a Crab tradition, Tamori-san. We have always stood ready to guard the Empire." To some of the Hida and Kaiu, weapons were almost a religion. "This face paint can be traced back to Kuni-sama himself," he explained, carefully touching his chin.

"Is your spa popular among your kin? I've always understood that the Dragon eschew luxury and comfort." Silver Fin Productions were keen to portray the Dragon as strange as they were unpredictable.

The mention of mugwort caught Iwane's attention. "I know a little about traditional herbs," he told her. "My work here involves cataloging the local flora and fauna, and searching for unknown compounds that might have medicinal value. Perhaps something that would interest Tamori-san?"

[Kakita Hiroki]

"Usagi Drop! Yes, that is it! You are the second member of your group I had the fortune of meeting! A thousand blessings to all the ancestors, a million prayers to the Fortunes!" Koroshi did a quick move from the most recent Usagi Drop! music video to show his support for the artist after crying to the heavens about his great fortune.

"Please accept my apologies for not recognizing your greatness. Would you be willing to give me your autograph?" The Otomo began to pat himself down to find his writing implements. Once a pen was found he would push his bangs back and crouch while pointing at his forehead. "Write here please!"

It is the Otomo Ta-kun met . . . small galaxy . . .

Autograph requests were common for Ki-kun, he was used to signing all sorts of things, even body parts. Just not usually foreheads . . . Imperial foreheads . . .

"Let me guess, that was Ta-kun . . . . Asahina Hinata, on the World of Dreams? He did speak of meeting an enthusiastic member of your family, Otomo-sama. Oh that move is impressive, Yu-kun was so happy we all liked that one."

He'd stalled long enough. You didn't make Imperials wait . . . well unless they wanted you to wait. He hesitated for a mere second more and then signed the autograph right where Koroshi wanted it.

"There we are. A pleasure, Otomo-sama!" He glanced at the pen. "Wait . . . is this permanent ink?"

[Yoritomo Yakura]

"I would say my home is easily, Shiawase Island," she nodded firmly at her answer. Assuming that the Phoenix was asking where she felt most at home, especially after her previous career might have displaced her, according to her shared resume of travels. "I was born and raised here in Nakahama City, although my adult training brought me to Aoihama. It's been nearly a decade since my permanent return to the island, but even then, my homecoming has really felt natural. Especially now, that I've come to see how the city has grown but still felt familiar, as well as pick up a few friends along the way in my absence, that made themselves a part of the island's family. I'm honoured to be welcomed back."

It was a bit of a practiced answer, admittedly, but said with great sincerity.

Day 1 - Early Evening, Sincerity (Honesty)/Awareness: Benten's Blessing with Void 1/3 | 9k5 ⇒ 40

Yakura smiled fondly. "Sounds lovely. I love Shiawese Island, even the weather, but sometimes I dream of returning to the Dice. Perhaps one day I'll do so." She glanced over to Umiko. "Perhaps one day I can show to Yasuki-sama?"

She turned back towards the Phoenix. "Oh, we have lovely card games you can play! Just please don't count the cards. You look smart. Smart people count the cards." She said with a small pout. "

[Otomo Koroshi]

It is the Otomo Ta-kun met . . . small galaxy . . .

Autograph requests were common for Ki-kun, he was used to signing all sorts of things, even body parts. Just not usually foreheads . . . Imperial foreheads . . .

"Let me guess, that was Ta-kun . . . . Asahina Hinata, on the World of Dreams? He did speak of meeting an enthusiastic member of your family, Otomo-sama. Oh that move is impressive, Yu-kun was so happy we all liked that one."

He'd stalled long enough. You didn't make Imperials wait . . . well unless they wanted you to wait. He hesitated for a mere second more and then signed the autograph right where Koroshi wanted it.

"There we are. A pleasure, Otomo-sama!" He glanced at the pen. "Wait . . . is this permanent ink?"

"Oh yes!" The Otomo said while pulling out his recorder to take a picture of the autograph with the Kakita in the background. When that was finished he got back up to his feet and gave a quick bow of thanks.

"Do not worry Kakita-sama, I can speak to the water kami about removing it tomorrow morning." He laughed with uncontrollable happiness as he looked at the picture on his device. "Asahina-sama was very impressive as well, though I did not think to ask him to sign my forehead! He was really very kind and friendly, you have good taste in bandmates."

[Kitsune Kiyoshi]

"That is s great way of raising awareness of such amazing creatures. Providing a means of experiencing their uniqueness to those who cannot see them directly." His smile widened. "Would you be able to show me examples?"

[Kakita Haruhi]

"That is s great way of raising awareness of such amazing creatures. Providing a means of experiencing their uniqueness to those who cannot see them directly." His smile widened. "Would you be able to show me examples?"

She smiled. "Of course. I gave the two avi-drones that I brought tonight to the Governor, but I can show you three that I made and use most frequently in performance the next time we meet - the warbler, the flycatcher, and the robin. Three songbirds from Golden Mirror that are regularly imported to Pale Blossom where I grew up and went to Academy."

"And I can bring the digital files. I can show you the pattern catalog. I have schematics, and have made for other customers, the many birds of Golden Mirror. Crane, ibis, duck, hen and rooster, magpie, sandpiper, kite, quail, hawk, eagle..." For a moment, it seemed possible she would list them all, but she catches herself and trails off.

"Anyway, I am happy to show you."

[Kitsune Kiyoshi]

"Very impressive. Have you ever done any non-avian species?" He took out his densai and brought up an image of a small winged reptile. "On the World of Dreams, I adopted a young spiny drake. Unfortunately, I couldn't bring her with me. The drakes are a recovering species and cannot leave their environment."

[Kakita Haruhi]

"Oh! I haven't. It will take many more lifetimes than I have to identify every bird in the planets of the empire's space and make their schematics. One planet at a time."

"But a drake is similar to a bird in some ways. It is good that you thought about what was best for her, for your drake. I'm sure she misses you."

"It might certainly be a way to raise awareness. And to keep her with you. Recordings of her vocalizations. Do drakes sing?"

[Asako Hikari]

That got a small laugh out of Taraka.

"If you climbed a mountain to get to me for wisdom, Asako-san, I'm not sure your sense of direction will be able to process any directions to the store I might give you. But we are on Golden Shotengai. If you find yourself struggling to find it, feel free to contact me on the number on the card. You are welcome to visit in any capacity: customer, investor, or booster." she offers in good humor.

She considered taking an appetizer, but rejected the notion.

"Or if you need any other insights from a local, feel free to reach out. I'll look up the worst restaurant for you, just so you know we're being honest with you." she added.

"Perhaps the Unicorn rubbed off too strongly on me then and I let the wind guide me wherever it wished...but I cannot complain too much. It guided me to this place and this lovely conversation. If I am lucky, it might also guide me to victory with one of your FBCs." He smile would grow mischievous for a moment before settling back. "I'll be sure to keep that in mind. I'll know which places to use for catering for those who are less earnest...and which ones to avoid should I seek to have a nice dinner with a keen mind."

[Kitsune Kiyoshi]

"Not the way birds do." he shook his head. "She does chirp and squeak. It sounds a bit like laughter when she's happy."

[Miya Kisha]

snip

"That sounds lovely; let's do tomorrow, early evening?" Kisha offers. "And I'll be grateful for your insights into the island!"

She bows.

"But I know you're a busy man who must have many seeking him," she continues as she rises from the bow. "I won't keep you if you don't want to be kept."

And she smiles again. "I somehow doubt you're the kind of man who does want it."