[Party Informal Event, RP Thread] - Dress to Excess RP (Day 3 Mid-Evening, Harbourfront Penthouse)

[Yasuki Taraka]

Hitomi peeks from underneath her hat, eyes wide, then shifts to let the hat hide her once more, drink being lifted up beneath. No reason to let perfectly good alcohol go to waste. "This hasn't even gotten that wild yet," she murmurs to her companion.

Taraka leaned in close to speak to hopefully have her words drowned out by the waterfall.

"Some people are just no fun. Or maybe they don't like Yoritomo-san personally. Possibly Kuni-sama is just looking for income or maaaybe...."

And then the magistrate throws a verbal punch way above his status would suggest as he essentially tells the governor to stay out of his way and go back to being a party girl.

"Oh Kuni-sama, that is a bold political play right there in front of so many"

[Bayushi Senshuken]

Senshuken is half way to heavens when those fingers touch her, but... what the hell!

She opens her half closed eyes and tries to understand what is going on. What kind of a Mantis wouldn't bribe her way to getting the right papers for a party? She could have asked for a half descent forgery, at least.

But! What really draws her attention are the Kuni's words to the governess. What a foolish little man. Or could it be a political play? She stays at her place, but her interest intensifies. Come on, babe, show some teeth! Vanquish him! Or publically accept that your position is threatened. That you are weak. The Scorpion shall be there for you in any case. Just in a different way.

[Kakita Haruhi]

Haruhi was catching on. Slowly.

That was a real magistrate! Not a person committed to their costume and roleplay, which she had thought splendid.

And that was the governor! Not a blonde woman with a gun costume, who she had definitely avoided looking at closely because that was a very very immodest costume.

Gosh.

She fell silent, scanning the crowd. What else had she missed?

Was there anything to do to help Yoritomo-sama? She wanted to. But she had no idea. Silence and decorum she could do. And that was probably helpful? Maybe?

[Suzume Hitomi]

Hitomi peeks from underneath her hat, eyes wide, then shifts to let the hat hide her once more, drink being lifted up beneath. No reason to let perfectly good alcohol go to waste. "This hasn't even gotten that wild yet," she murmurs to her companion.

Taraka leaned in close to speak to hopefully have her words drowned out by the waterfall.

"Some people are just no fun. Or maybe they don't like Yoritomo-san personally. Possibly Kuni-sama is just looking for income or maaaybe...."

And then the magistrate throws a verbal punch way above his status would suggest as he essentially tells the governor to stay out of his way and go back to being a party girl.

"Oh Kuni-sama, that is a bold political play right there in front of so many"

The calculations are definitely running in Hitomi's head. Should she speak up? She could probably at least throw a bureaucraticly-worded wrench into the magistrate's skit. Having the governor's favor could benefit her and her shop in the future--assuming the governor chose gratitude instead of affront at having an outsider step in.

And a governor weak enough to need public aid from a Sparrow? That kind of favor might not be so favorable after all, while the magistrate could make a *lot* of trouble where he chose. It wasn't the time to jump forward with so much risk for very iffy reward.

So she leans a bit closer, letting the hat help hide the conversation. "The Mantis aren't well-liked overall, but didn't the governor's people know she was here and keep things clear? I...think old Asataka's gossip filtered down to his people." And probaby more than just his opinion on the choice of twin for governor, maybe ideas of actively meddling?

[Kitsune Kiyoshi]

The party had quieted down as word spread of the magistrate's presence. That didn't mean much to the Detective. Usually when everyone became quiet, he was supposed to act. So, he continued moving the room in his odd human mask. Kiyoshi followed, trying to get his attention before he made anything worse.

[Yasuki Taraka]

The calculations are definitely running in Hitomi's head. Should she speak up? She could probably at least throw a bureaucraticly-worded wrench into the magistrate's skit. Having the governor's favor could benefit her and her shop in the future--assuming the governor chose gratitude instead of affront at having an outsider step in.

And a governor weak enough to need public aid from a Sparrow? That kind of favor might not be so favorable after all, while the magistrate could make a *lot* of trouble where he chose. It wasn't the time to jump forward with so much risk for very iffy reward.

So she leans a bit closer, letting the hat help hide the conversation. "The Mantis aren't well-liked overall, but didn't the governor's people know she was here and keep things clear? I...think old Asataka's gossip filtered down to his people." And probaby more than just his opinion on the choice of twin for governor, maybe ideas of actively meddling?

Fortunately in one of her trips around the kharmic wheel, Taraka had learned that this is why you don't take Contrary. Jump into a fight between a governor and a magistrate? Absolutely not. Gossip quietly like two courtiers watching someone take the dais to call someone a fishmonger? Absolutely. She might not have a fan, but a cast could block people watching at least a bit as she repositioned as if adjusting it.

"It's....not impossible the governor didn't tell anyone. Maybe she slipped her detail to have a little fun assuming the costume party would grant her some anonymity." she theorized. "Though that's more a move I'd expect her sister to pull.":

And her costume didn't exactly scream 'blending in.' Unless she was planning to infiltrate a less than reputable geisha house.

"Asataka-sama did mention the original plan, didn't he. Maybe there are some people who think that with the right amount of pushing, they can force another even earlier retirement. But that seems incredibly short sighted. We don't need this kind of disharmony right now."

[Kitsuki Ichitaiyo]

Ichitaiyo was regent at the moment, and she wouldn't be unbothered by the interruption of the Magistrate, continuing her drinking and lobbying.

Maybe.. she could find a word or two with Ochiba, after all this wraps up.

[Yoritomo Ochiba]

Yoritomo-san, did you apply for a permit with the city before hosting an organized gathering this large, in a temporarily leased property? It would be unfortunate if I were called here to address one violation, only to find others."

Junpei would turn to face the Yoritomo again, waiting for her answer...

"Kuni-sama, in a stroke of good fortune I actually looked up the city noise ordinances in advance." Replied the Mantis, who had only done so offhand in a fit of kami inspired thought.and had never expected them to actually come up.

"And I fear a well meaning but perhaps overzealous neighbour has accidentally wasted your time."
Ochiba makes a casual 'nothing to worry about here' motion both to Ayame and the the other samurai in attendance.

"You will note that while parties have a set noise limit, religious celebrations are explicitly exempt."
She gestures to the gathering with a flourish
"This is such a gathering, if Kuni-sama wishes to spend his evening confirming that I have two respected priests who can testify to the effort I put into ensuring the spiritual integrity and propriety of our celebration. I understand it may not appear wholly traditional to a member of your illustrious family, but we all show our respect and love for the spirits in our own way."

[Hiruma Akito]

Suh-Hyun watched the interaction between Magistrate and hostess in calm silence. She did a double take when she recognized the risque sniper approaching the Kuni.

"And the Governor here as well. This isn't going to be good." Her little horse ears whirled above her head, flicking to mimic her agitation.

Then they drooped as she sighed, her stoic demeanor disappearing into exhausted annoyance. "If they start interrogating people... remind me to turn the ears off."

Looking back at Fancy Formal wear, she added with a lopsided smile, "Shinjo Suh-Hyun by the way. Look me up sometime if this turns sour."

Akito followed Suh-Hyun's gaze (and her ears) whistling softly as he recognized the players involved.

"That'll be a bit of a scandal. If they start interrogating people..." He flashed her a quick grin. "-maybe we swim for shore. Alas, that's probably a bit toowild, even for General Horse and Fancy Formalwear.

His smile turned less playful, more honest, as she gave her name. "Hiruma Akito. And I will look you up." His lips quirked again. "Chocolate fountain's just not as fun with a Magistrate supervising."

[Kuni Junpei]

"Is that so?" Junpei would say at that bit of information.

He gave an expectant look around that room and addressed the other guests. "We have not been made aware, unfortunately. Perhaps if the proper paperwork had been filed, then this would have been a non-issue. If that's the case, please come forward and let's have this resolved as soon as possible. Kuni Ayaka-san, please take their testimony and confirm."


Kuni Ayaka

One thing at a time, chief... Ayaka thought as she had finished punching in the charges on the console, printing out a strip of yellow paper that looked like an ofuda. Except this one didn't grant any protection and demanded money.

Zip!

Ayaka tore the paper from the hand-held machine.

[Yasuki Ayame]

And Ayame was right there to snatch away the bill just as Ayaka had it in hand.

The governor crossed her arms under her chest while keeping the charges between her fingers. "Kuni-san, let's take this outside, hm?" She said while casting a glare at him.

"Now," she added.

[Tamori Kanna]

snip

As if out of nowhere, the anglerfish appeared.

"Uh... would that be me? My testimony?"

[Kuni Junpei]

Kuni Junpei internally evaluated his options and the situation. His gaze went to the governor with a neutral expression, despite being glared at.

"So, I see," he would say after some thought. "Of course."

"Yoritomo-san, you or your associates are free to submit the paperwork at their earliest convenience. Please ensure that they are sent to the magistrate's office in a timely manner. Enjoy your evening," he said before bowing to excuse himself. "Please excuse us."

Yasuki Ayame, Kuni Junpei, and Kuni Ayaka would make their way out of the party without causing any further scene, although there might have been much of one made already.

/exit all three.

****
Day 3 - Mid Evening: Void used. | 4k4 ⇒ 31 (TN: 15)

[Kitsune Kiyoshi]

"Kuni-sama! It's good to see you again!" Kiyoshi lifted his mask and waved at the original. "Thank you again, for this morning!"

[Yoritomo Ochiba]

Ochiba bows back with a smile before beckoning over a microphone from a waiting servant dressed like a fire kami (religious festival, right? 100%?)

"Ooooookay minna-san and minna-sama, dinner and a show here tonight. But the path to party shogun is now clear. Please finalise casting your votes for the samurai who has won the party and in just a few moments we will be announcing our winner."

Snap pointing at the DJ.
"Let's have a little energy to finish strong, hit it with Don't Stop Presuming by Komoro Ryokō!"

As if out of nowhere, the anglerfish appeared.

"Uh... would that be me? My testimony?"

As the music swells back to life Ochiba hands back her mic and turns to the wise anglerfish.
"Tamori-san you are a lifesaver, but I am glad that magistrate didn't decide you needed to testify on the spot. Let's...not rush getting that paperwork in, he's the busy sort."
Wink.

[Suzume Hitomi]

Fortunately in one of her trips around the kharmic wheel, Taraka had learned that this is why you don't take Contrary. Jump into a fight between a governor and a magistrate? Absolutely not. Gossip quietly like two courtiers watching someone take the dais to call someone a fishmonger? Absolutely. She might not have a fan, but a cast could block people watching at least a bit as she repositioned as if adjusting it.

"It's....not impossible the governor didn't tell anyone. Maybe she slipped her detail to have a little fun assuming the costume party would grant her some anonymity." she theorized. "Though that's more a move I'd expect her sister to pull.":

And her costume didn't exactly scream 'blending in.' Unless she was planning to infiltrate a less than reputable geisha house.

"Asataka-sama did mention the original plan, didn't he. Maybe there are some people who think that with the right amount of pushing, they can force another even earlier retirement. But that seems incredibly short sighted. We don't need this kind of disharmony right now."

Hitomi shakes her head slightly, paradoxically in agreement and takes a long drink to finish her cocktail. Nothing wasted if the party were shut down. Doesn't seem to be affecting her much.

One side of her lips quirk up as Ochiba claims religious exemption, but Doji training is great for not doing spit-takes. "You may want to fade, if this is claimed as a religious rite. Nobody will be happy to hear the Mantis are calling upon the Spirit of Misfortune at the Harbour," she says with some amusement.

As the crises snaps to its end, she pauses for a moment to consider how it played out, turns to order another drink--this one the sour-sweet of local berries--and adds, "well, they're not budging the plan in place just yet, it seems."

[Kakita Hiroki]

YakumoFinal.jpg (70.76 KiB) Viewed 988 times

Yakumo had been there all the time. Honest. Just as she he . . . he . . she was so short you might not have noticed. And they may have spent some time hidden away with a waiter . . . . but you didn't see that.

They were now waving a cocktail glass that might still have something in it around while trying to figure out just what was happening here.

[Yasuki Taraka]

Hitomi shakes her head slightly, paradoxically in agreement and takes a long drink to finish her cocktail. Nothing wasted if the party were shut down. Doesn't seem to be affecting her much.

One side of her lips quirk up as Ochiba claims religious exemption, but Doji training is great for not doing spit-takes. "You may want to fade, if this is claimed as a religious rite. Nobody will be happy to hear the Mantis are calling upon the Spirit of Misfortune at the Harbour," she says with some amusement.

As the crises snaps to its end, she pauses for a moment to consider how it played out, turns to order another drink--this one the sour-sweet of local berries--and adds, "well, they're not budging the plan in place just yet, it seems."

Taraka grinned a bit at that.

"Consider it a 'placating and banishing' rather than a summoning." she suggested, similarly amused at the call for religious exemption.

She ordered a drink that featured a mixture of grapefruit and lime.

"See? An offering of the island's best fruits to ward off misfortune." she said, taking a sip of the bitter drink.

The slight frown it gave her made covering the what she would say next a bit easier for those paying close attention to faces.

"Hm. I think that was smartly handled but.......I suppose it depends on what you're looking for in a governor. Some will think it weak that she didn't punish him right there in front of everyone. Or that she's overly concerned about what the tourists think. Which given how important tourists are to keep the island afloat as it were, seems quite misguided. But that is the burden of command. No matter how smart your decisions, no matter how eloquent and gracefully you put them into place, there will always be someone there to criticize." she muses.

[Suzume Hitomi]

Taraka grinned a bit at that.

"Consider it a 'placating and banishing' rather than a summoning." she suggested, similarly amused at the call for religious exemption.

She ordered a drink that featured a mixture of grapefruit and lime.

"See? An offering of the island's best fruits to ward off misfortune." she said, taking a sip of the bitter drink.

The slight frown it gave her made covering the what she would say next a bit easier for those paying close attention to faces.

"Hm. I think that was smartly handled but.......I suppose it depends on what you're looking for in a governor. Some will think it weak that she didn't punish him right there in front of everyone. Or that she's overly concerned about what the tourists think. Which given how important tourists are to keep the island afloat as it were, seems quite misguided. But that is the burden of command. No matter how smart your decisions, no matter how eloquent and gracefully you put them into place, there will always be someone there to criticize." she muses.

Hitomi raises her glass in a silent, placating, toast. "Ehh, never a good look to berate underlings out in public. And can you imagine the feeds full of her doing it in that outfit? Taking it outside to save face for all is sensible."

"Wonder what the fine actually is up here for violations of the noise codes?" she chuckles.

As the music picks back up, she taps her foot and says, "but before all that political theater, we were talking rumors. I don't know that I'm feeling any better about them, seeing that kind of political game being played at the top and in public."

[Bayushi Kazushi]

Kazushi emerges from a side room, entourage in tow as usual. Looking around, he notices the subdued atmosphere and notable absences.

"Did I miss something?"