To say that Kyuden Doji was the social heart of the Empire was as much a gross understatement as to say that the Shadowlands were a source of concern for the Crab Clan. Each season, hundreds or even thousands of guests cycled through the radiant palace’s adorned hallways, taking with them the sights and sounds of the new season to incorporate into their courts at home. In this way, the children of Doji continued their mission of bringing culture and sophistication to the Emperor’s people.

Today, however, there was little thought of greater duty in the mind of Doji Akiko. Today, she was witnessing the marriage of her only child, her daughter Domotai, to Ikoma Kusari of the Lion. It was an arranged marriage, as most samurai marriages were, a bond that ultimately benefited both clans. Though the two young samurai did not love one another, they had already demonstrated the mutual respect that was the foundation of any good marriage.

Akiko had never been prouder of her daughter.

“Domotai was a vision today, Akiko-sama.”

Akiko turned to receive the compliment only to find herself facing an odd little man, a Lion, that she did not recognize. “Thank you, my friend,” she said diplomatically. “You are too kind.”

The Lion smiled and bowed deeply. “I am Ikoma Masote, my lady. It is my pleasure to meet you at last.”

“At last?” Akiko said curiously. “Have we corresponded?”

“No, my lady,” he returned, “but I am familiar with one of your trusted subordinates, a dear friend of mine from childhood.”

Akiko smiled politely. “Who might that be?”

“Doji Tanaka,” Masote said.

Akiko refrained from altering her features only through an incredible feat of willpower. Tanaka had indeed been one of her principal couriers for several years until his recent death at the hands of bandits while traveling between the Crane and Phoenix provinces. However, she was well aware that Tanaka had lost several family members in previous decades during fighting at Toshi Ranbo, and was a vehement detractor of the Lion. This man was no friend of Tanaka’s.

“I fear I do not recall his mentioning you, Masote-san,” she said diplomatically.

“I am certain he would not have troubled you with matters of a personal nature,” Masote said. “He did mention you frequently, however. From his descriptions, I feel as though I have served under your command myself.” He smiled. “At any rate, I merely wished to meet the great Doji Akiko in person at long last. You have many matters weighing upon you today, and I will not trouble you further. It was a great honor.” The Lion bowed and turned to join the other guests who were in the process of wishing the newly married couple good fortunes for their future.

“Is there a problem, my lady?” Kakita Munemori was strangely quiet as he spoke to her, keeping his expression light and his tone low so that others could not hear. “You seemed particularly intent.”

“There is no problem,” Akiko said with a warm smile. “We will see to that.”