Tadayoshi
Ikoma Tadayoshi is a young Lion musician and court poet touring Unicorn lands to study music. He is known for his ability to perform unfamiliar Unicorn melodies, which he showcased during a tea gathering to set the mood. Tadayoshi expressed a broad interest in music, stating he appreciates "all music everywhere." His flute playing has garnered attention, and he has been a guest at the court of Governor Miya Tetsuya multiple times, becoming familiar with the governor's family, including his niece, Miya Misato. During the tea ceremony, Tadayoshi performed a well-known piece to recapture the guests' attention, impressing the Unicorn attendees. He engaged in conversation with Doji Setsuna, discussing his musical interests and responding to inquiries about Unicorn melodies. Tadayoshi also canvassed guests about the events of the previous night, gathering information about their experiences during the chaos. He noted court gossip regarding Miya Misato's imperial mission and the absence of her usual entourage, which led him to offer to petition Governor Miya Tetsuya to allow a group to escort Miya Misato westward, suggesting that this would draw out potential attackers. Tadayoshi is acquainted with various court members, including Ukio, an Ikoma bard, and Matsu Seishi, a disgruntled young Lion related to Tadayoshi’s former mentor. He engages in social interactions, notably responding to Matsu Seishi's taunts with a provocative song. During the tea, Tadayoshi uses Whispers at Court to spread rumors among the Unicorn and others, suggesting that the Crane are covering up their involvement in recent events. He learns of another rumor regarding Governor Miya Tetsuya's niece attracting Shinobi interest and employs an effect of harmlessness to avoid personal entanglement. In a private audience with Governor Miya Tetsuya, Tadayoshi discussed the escort plan and was tasked with watching over Miya Misato and the Emerald Magistrates. The governor expressed concern for Miya's safety and the need for her to reach both the Lion and Unicorn camps to negotiate peace. Tadayoshi was informed that a contingent of Lion soldiers would be passing nearby, which presented an opportunity for additional protection during the escort. He planned to assemble the Emerald Magistrates to depart with Miya Misato and was aware of the political implications of their journey. Recently, he played his flute in the garden while discreetly circulating rumors about the Crane plotting against Miya, further entrenching himself in the intricate web of court politics.