Having spent so much of his life in limbo, Degarashi left Nikesake with a strange feeling in his chest; anticipation, mixed with a healthy dose of nerves and a nagging sense of loss that he couldn't quite identify. It was this latter feeling that made him turn back towards the city for a moment, longing to return, even if just for a moment. But the prospects of an exciting future called him elsewhere, and as strong as that feeling was, he forced himself to turn back to the road ahead.

The Dragon, it turned out, were a strange combination of precisely what he'd expected and contradictions to every story he'd ever heard. It was a very enlightening experience, which Degarashi took to heart with all the irony one might expect. Fortunately, many of them had an excellent sense of humor, and his rakugo performances did surprisingly well, finding himself with a decent audience whenever he decided to set up shop. After a number of small successes, he began to send letters formally inviting Agasha Poemu to attend whenever he was planning a particularly large piece. He even tried his hand at writing a play of his own, though hadn't quite finished it in time to perform or direct it during his tour.

Mostly the interruption to his creative journey came at the hands of the Yobanjin, who had the worst senses of humor Degarashi had ever encountered. Normally content to stay behind the lines and gather intelligence, the bland featured Scorpion found his unique skill set quite handy for aiding the Dragon in the occasional skirmish. Though his presence didn't have a drastic impact, it did put him in the good graces of a few samurai here and there, and wherever possible, he made sure to pass names along to the new Imperial Advisor for those who seemed especially grateful or impressionable. Such letters often contained reassurances that he was, in fact, still alive, and the occasional inquiry about orchids.

When trouble started brewing back in Scorpion lands, Degarashi prepared himself to be recalled, smiling at his foresight for securing some very handy contacts among the Crab. Given how the future might be looking, that connection could be very important.

He never did quite learn if Togashi tattoos go all the way down.

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Scorpion Clan - Courtier - Actor - Really Bland Looking - Evidently A Comedian - Third Wheel of Emma-O - The Scorpion's Poison Joke

Status: 1.0 - Glory: 1.0 - Honour: Honorless Dog

Typically carries: Wakizashi, parchment and charcoal, at least one medicine kit, a dark grey blanket, rope and grappling hook