Ambassadors' Compounds- Palace Ring 2
A broad chested guard, with interwoven tattoos on his arms, and a crooked nose, watches Motoko approach and gruffly asks her to state her business. The Kensai may also notice this guard is missing most of his small finger on his right hand. He is armed with a naginata and a short sword at his side. Upon hearing she wishes to inquire after the bodyguard job he snorts, regarding her dubiously, but motions to a rack where she can place her weapons. NO ONE, she is told, other than the Ambassador's guards, may carry a weapon in his presence.
Assuming Motoko is willing to part with her weapons, the guard leads her through the sliding doors and into the hallway. She is asked to remove her foot ware and leave them on the woven mat; the guard does the same. She is asked to wait by the entrance where another rough looking guard keeps her company, while the first one walks to the end of the room and proceeds through another set of sliding doors. The guard who stays with her is armed with a long spear, rather like an Ikoshan yari. He does not speak, even if questioned.
After several silent minutes, old broken nose returns, along with a smaller man in a minister's formal robe, his long raven hair pulled back and braided. He is a slender man with mud brown eyes, a long mustache, forked beard, and a disinterested mien. Scanning Motoko up and down he sniffs and says in a pinched voice:
"Mmm yes I understand you wish to apply for the currently posted position of Shi'wei for His Eminence, Ambassador Sen, may the Heavens look down with favour upon him and all his endeavors. What, may I ask, makes you believe you are worthy of this prestigious position?"