Three weeks have passed. The capital feels washed clean by rain and rumor alike, and the garden lies hushed under clipped pines and damp stones.
Lord Matsudaira receives Arimari beneath a covered walk, then unrolls a formal scroll tied with pale cord. His face is set, but not grim.
Lord Matsudaira
The house is steadier now. I mean to press beyond it. Nomaru must be brought to our side, by word before steel.
At the far edge of the garden, Reina stands by a stone lantern, listening to the water move through the channel. When she finally turns, her ears are low and her voice is careful.
Reina
Arimari... these roads have changed me. Your quiet has stayed with me longer than I expected, and I have begun to love you.
The words settle between the plum blossoms and the paper screens. Matsudaira watches without interrupting, then rests the scroll in Arimari's hands as though offering both duty and room to breathe.
Lord Matsudaira
Take the seal to Nomaru, speak with care, and find where their loyalty may bend. When you are ready, tell me what answer the garden gives you.
✓ Quest Accepted
Take the seal to Nomaru
✓ Quest Accepted
Learn where Nomaru's loyalty may bend
+ New Item Acquired
Formal scroll
“I bow to Lord Matsudaira and tuck the seal into my robes, ready to depart for Nomaru.”
SUCCESS (Great Agility, rolled +0)