Courtyards and Walkways

"I see... and the Hizashi clan is hiring. You may be required to do some paperwork, and there are some tests we will want to put you through."

Omura's expression hadn't changed a bit, but it was clear by the content of his words that the Hizashi clan was welcoming any sword for sale with wide and welcome arms. Even tonight's festival would be a test, and Setoku would most assuredly be watched, examined for his personality and temperament. He'd find himself sized up as Omura's analytic gaze scanned his figure.

".. But I suggest that you seek out the manor's lead servant, Nakatani. You will need to be cleaned up, before you do anything."

He regarded Inaba's presence with a slight nod of his head.
"Good day to you, Inaba. Your orders are first to bring Ketsueki to one of the guest rooms. The stag room. You know the one. From there, you will instruct her to enter, but you will not enter, nor will you allow yourself to be seen. Lord Genji is within and you will not be forgiven if he is disturbed. When you have finished with this task, you are to sign Setoku-san into the clan registry for testing and trial service. Is this understood?"

Ketsueki turned her head quickly, the man's voice notorious in her head. She knew it - it wasn't one she as likely to forget after the venom he spat at her a day or two prior. Her first expression upon seeing his face again wasn't particularly friendly - her eyes were distrustful. Perhaps a little angry, but there was a certain dislike there.

Yet, she kept her tone low and even. If this was a set-up... she wasn't about to cause a scene. That had never been something for her to do, in or outside her career. "... thank you. I am well." Her mending hands came to settle one over the other at her lap where she stood. "Is there something I can help you with? Provided it isn't sitting in a small box, that is," she adds, letting the words hang.

She wasn't sure which was it that saved him from potentially receiving a blow to the nose - her slim grip on proper standing and manners, or the fact her hands were nowhere near ready to start engaging in physical encounters. But she swallowed her pride and simply nodded, waiting at the door for the word... paying no mind to the crease for the moment. That was the only insult she could give the man.

She didn't quite grasp nor believe that this man, after their first encounter, was anything close to sincere.

"Very well. My thanks."

Setoku nodded his head to the man, his own eyes sizing up the man as well. Born within the Shibata clan linage, the testing and festive get together would be nothing new for him. And, he had to admit, clean clothes and socializing was something he perhaps did need. Though when the other man approached, Setoku gave him a bare glance, watching as the man set off first to do his work.

"Seeking swords, clearly. Preparing for war? Perhaps I'll fit right in..."

He spoke to no one in particular, and seemed startled when Inaba reported back. Setoku merely bowed his head to the man, fully acknowledging him now.

"I am at your disposal."

"Yes, Omura-sama."
He bowed. Omura then departed.

"You will have to demonstrate your worth, in kenjutsu," he said to Setoku when they were left alone at the entrance. "But I'm not exactly sure how or when that will transpire. Let's get you to Nakatani, who can get you cleaned up and ready for this evening's festivities."

Once Hizashi Kojuro had directed them to the capable hands of one of his liege's servants Nakatani, Masahiro inclined his head to the fledgling young master before turned his attention fully towards the other. Masahiro maintained that inscrutable mask as he stood beside his lady wife in his lacquered red armor while a retainer remained near with his helmet and spear in hand. The courtyard further became congested as sell-swords seemed to swell within. He was vaguely aware of the call to arms his lordship had sent out across the countryside. It concerned him, however, as he considered having so many untested and unknown swords so close to the venerable Hizashi-no-Kami. While he trusted in the wisdom of his liege he did not trust ronin - men who were no better than dogs, loyal to coin and by the will of the Heavens without masters of their own.

Masahiro knew Nakatani only in passing as his presence before had largely been minimal at best before his promotion. So, the banner lord regarded the young woman warily though any suspicions were not notable features upon his visage. With regards to decorum and propriety the samurai offered her a respectful bow befitting her station and nothing more before he offered proper address.

"The young lord Hizashi Kojuro bids you escort us to the gardens for tea, Nakatani-san. If you would please, show my lady wife and I there for tea," the warrior spoke.

"Indeed. First, let's get you cleaned up. Follow me."

Inaba would take Setoku to the bath house area. Here, the man would be given ample time to bathe, with clean clothing left behind for him by an unseen servant. Inaba had a tremendous amount of patience and wouldn't insist that he hurry, no matter how long he took. Looking presentable this evening was of utmost importance.

"As you wish."

Setoku would obediently follow the man, and head to the baths. About an hour would pass before Setoku would return, carrying his no-dachi across his shoulders, wearing a kimono and hakama which was provided for him. His hair pulled into a much more presentable pony tail, instead of the usual top knot. He would find his way back to Inaba, bowing his head slightly.