Dojihime was expecting a guest but was also trying on ensembles for the play, or less trying them on and contemplating what mood she wished to set for the evening’s events. She wanted to represent the Crane without being overly blue… give the appearance of Crane Blue through her multiple layers which gave her servants a small fit as she was very demanding and exacting on her needs.

Then there was the matter of the letter that sat on the table next to prepared snacks and a steeping teapot.

Hadananzi approached his sister's chambers quietly, wondering what it was she wanted to discuss. Today was turning out to be very busy indeed, and he smiled to himself over the results of this morning. When he arrived at the door, he gave a gentle scratch to announce his presence, then waited to be acknowledged.

The servants bae him enter as Dojihime turned and said, "Brother, come in."

She sighed and commanded the servants bring another kimono as she fussed with her ensemble.

Hadananzi inclined his head as he entered. "Having difficulties deciding on a proper outfit dear sister?" There was a hint of amusement in his voice a he asked this question.

"I need to find something that I can don quickly, but still portray my reputation for elegance and untouchability," she replied with a smirk.

"But I won't be wearing it while I am in the play; until the end."

"Ever the one for details, eh sister?" He chuckled softly, amused as much by Dojihime as by the distress of her servants. "So tell me, dear sister, what is it that brings me before you today?"

"I received a letter that mentioned you," she responded gesturing with her fan to the letter on the table.

"Can I inquire on this situation?" Dojihime asked.

The letter:

Kakita wrote:

Tue Jun 22, 2021 9:57 pm

Arrives sometime EA

Due to an unforeseen turn of events regarding the situation surrounding myself and Hadananzi, I will be unable to attend the play this evening contrary to what I previously suggested in our previous meetings. In order to avoid detracting from your undoubtedly wonderful performance I will remain absent. I wish you the best of luck and the radiance of your beloved grandmother to guide you.

-Kakita

Hadananzi carefully read the letter, then nodded slowly. "Ah, this. Yes, I know what this is about." He produced a blue fan, decorated with a white bird, and showed it to Dojihime. "This was found in Kakita's room today. He claims no knowledge of it's presence there, and I disagreed. We are set to settle the matter by divine duel in two days."

"Just when I thought he might be a decent man," she said looking at the fan.

"I knew I had a reason to dislike him. A Divine Duel... father would be pleased, even more so if Heaven favors you."

"I could not stand by and let the slight against my beloved wife's honor go unanswered. So I challenged him immediately and he accepted. I expect the terms shall be set accordingly, he requested first blood." Hadananzi put the fan away, to give to Ananzihime later.

"You did what any good husband would, my sister's name had to be defended," she responded.

"I knew it was missing, but I never would have thought he was so low as to pilfer it. This speaks poorly of the Bat."

"I would liken it to the actions of but one, yet it does speak to the kind of soul they keep amongst themselves. Regardless, this matter will be settled in two days time. I intend to make Kakita bleed for this."

"Simply win, brother, prove the Heavens favor you, his shame will be clear to all," she responded.

"A simple enough matter. I will be devoting myself to practicing the art every day until the duel, as I am certain he does as well."

Hadananzi wrote: ↑

Wed Jun 23, 2021 12:30 am

"A simple enough matter. I will be devoting myself to practicing the art every day until the duel, as I am certain he does as well."

"He is a simple man, what else will he be doing," she responded.

"But I am pleased you take this matter with the gravity and seriousness it demands."

"It wouldn't do to look the fool before the heavens due to a lack of practice." He chuckled, then sighed.

"Righteousness will guide my blade to victory."

She placed a comforting hand on his shoulder and said, "You have my support, brother. It saddens me that you have had to endure these little indignities."

Hadananzi put a hand over Dojihime's and squeezed it softly in thanks. "All minor things, dear sister, and nothing I could not endure further were it necessary to do so. Still, I am glad to have your support."

"We are family," was her only reply.

"I take it my sister is not yet aware of your future duel?"

"Not yet, no. The matter was barely decided a few hours ago, and I responded to your summons immediately. She isn't even aware yet that her fan has been recovered."