Ah, diplomacy! Walosi had no Eagle Chief, who by rights should be heading any sort of foray into matters of state. Which Nate reckoned this had to be, if they were being greeted by an Empress in representation of a Dynasty.

He should have worn a nicer coat! The only Chief they had right now was the Raven, and his authority ended at the border. He'd have to fill both roles.

Even if he didn't know how to bow or what riddles to speak to prove Walosi was an equal. Nate's common blood revealed itself in feeling a little disappointed that Izumi didn't come draped in silks, attended by a hundred virgin maidens and thrice as many gilded soldiers.

Privately he thought calling one's self a soon-to-be dynasty might be a bit overambitious to claim, but couldn't deny she held herself with regality regardless. He kind of hoped she was telling the truth.

Out West they didn't have Empires in name, but Cattle Barons filled more or less the same role. So lacking better refinements, he settled for being polite. The way one ought to when addressing a rich man's daughter.

Eleanore. He still ached for her!

Empress Izumi. Well, you're doing us an honor, paying us a visit. He smiled. Considered naming himself a Chief, but decided against it for now. Walosi wasn't a kingdom, and friendship with Fujiwara would be determined by the entire tribe or not at all. His only role was to facilitate fairly.

I'm afraid we weren't prepared to entertain one of your station, but if you'd like a decent meal and a shaded place to rest, we'd be happy to offer it. Learning more about our neighbors would be good for both of us, I think.