D2LN, [readacted], see notes

[Doji Shinnosuke]

"Well... he's a clever little fellow. We can try?" Shin cocks his head to examine the black scrap in continued puzzlement. "Has there been a robbery?"

If asked, he'll try to make Haku understand what's wanted, but maybe he's not awake enough yet. Or maybe Haku doesn't work on an empty stomach. In any case, no communication seems to occur.

"One of the Scorpion courtiers has a real hunting hound, you know. Funny looking thing," (a bit rich coming from the master of Haku, brachycephalic feather duster at large) "but I'm told he's found lost people before."

--

D2 LN--Animal Handling uses Awareness! Void go! | 5k5 ⇒ 17 (TN: 25)

[Daidoji Sae]

Carefully, Ryu lifted the two things he had found, touching them as little as possible. The piece of paper he showed to Sae, frowning thoughtfully as he did so. The scrap of cloth he showed around generally, then offered to Shinnosuke.

"Hmmm."
Sae's brows furrows.

In a low voice.
"There is one samurai here I know with those characters in their name. But I do not imagine they are in the habit of leaving calling cards. Your discretion on this matter is appreciated."

And in an even lower voice.
"Very well done Ryu, you and the others may have saved lives tonight."

[Daidoji Ryu]

Ryu gave a precise nod. "An honor to serve as always, Daidoji-sama."

[Daidoji Sae]

Ryu gave a precise nod. "An honor to serve as always, Daidoji-sama."

"Would you or any others who saw what occurred be able to provide Doji-san and myself with a report of what exactly has happened? It is important we do not allow rumour and hearsay to spread throughout the Court."

[Doji Noriko]

It was Noriko who replied first.

"Ano...there was a man in my room and another outside. I do not believe that they had time to do anything significant, but they fled as soon as challenged." She sighed. "I am afraid that is all that I know."

[Daidoji Ryu]

Ryu nodded confirmation. "I'm afraid that is all that can be said without speculation, which I am loathe to engage in."

[Fukurokujin]

The guards sweep through the facility--politely, but thoroughly--and find nothing else out of place.

A servant crew, rubbing sleep out of their eyes and yawning, arrives and begins repair work.

[Daidoji Sae]

"I apologise that you had to experience that Doji-san, and I hope it may remain a bad dream that fades back into oblivion for the children."
Sae's expression darkened slightly as she turns to look back out into the night.

"The perpetrators shall have to be found."