[D3, LE] Tea and Conversation

[Isawa Tanshin]

"I think he is well on his way point-wise. He has performed well in the physical tests. There seems to be some differences of opinion in how he fares at the scholarly tests. Outside observers seem to come to different conclusions compared to the judges.

I think it concerning that should he have enough points from physical contests, that judgement may already be passed in regards to his gempukku."

[Vutall]

The owner of the House of the Red Lotus walks over to the table with the competitors at it and bows to them.

"Good evening, -sama's. I take it you are enjoying yourselves? I wanted to check in with you personally to see if there was anything I could do for you. After all, serving the Topaz Competitors is a great honor, and word spreads about the House of the Red Lotus greatly after each Championship, so you are a great value to our business."

[Isawa Tanshin]

"Thank you, some more tea would be lovely." Tanshin responded.

Tanshin took the opportunity presented:

"My companions and I were just discussing the excellent service the House of the Red Lotus is known for.
Outside of the tournament, you must see many famous people visit over the many years you have served the town. Can you tell us about some of your more notable clients?"

[Kitsuki Asahi]

Asahi had been listening carefully to the others.

[Vutall]

The owner nods and motions for a server to come with a fresh pot.

"We have had many notable persona here, Isawa-san. The Emerald Champion, before his passing, would visit and recommend us to many persons in the Imperial Court. Additionally, almost all of the Crane leadership has had our service at least once on their visit here. Our blends are well known and highly regarded."

[Isawa Tanshin]

"Yes, I had heard Satsune-sama recommended your fine establishment. I would not be here had he not mentioned it.

I imagine your proximity to the Academy has also brought his brother-in-law, Toshimoku-sama to your doors as well?"

Tanshin spared a glance to Jiro, then immediately to Jiro's right.

[Bayushi Jiro]

Jiro reluctantly slides his arm from off the teapot, letting the proprietor see it, but leaving it still nestled against his side.

[Vutall]

"Indeed, he has been here many times! Though, he generally prefers we send him out blends so he can enjoy them at his estate instead of here."

The owner glances at Jiro and their eyes goes wide at the teapot.

"What a magnificent pot! Did you make that, Bayushi-san? We could certainly use something like that here.."

[Bayushi Jiro]

"I am afraid it was left to me by an ancestor, and I couldn't possibly part with it," Jiro says apologetically. "But my father will be very pleased that it has met with the approval of the master of such an esteemed house." He bows respectfully.

[Isawa Tanshin]

Tanshin sagged a bit in disappointment.

"His duties no doubt keep him from enjoying these surroundings.. I bet he would spend his younger days here,, no doubt the young ladies of the court would fawn over him. - do you have any stories?"

[Vutall]

"Oh, there are many a tale, though I must admit that there are few I would care to share. Such things are private matters, and our guests who come here wouldn't like their matters discussed in public. It would give us a poor reputation you see."

The owner nods to Jiro, eyeing the pot still.

"Alas, such is life. You have a fine teapot there. Cherish it well."

[Kitsuki Asahi]

"Of course." the Dragon nodded. "We aren't interested in gossip, we just wonder about the lives of such legendary samurai. "The things they've enjoyed doing and the places they enjoyed visiting. For those of us just beginning our own stories, such things can provide inspiration.""