The office is quiet in a way that feels deliberate. Soft lamplight glows over polished wood floors and silk wall scrolls. The scent of incense lingers faintly in the air. Outside the sliding doors, the city hums, distant traffic, distant life. But inside this room, there is only control.

Kiku sits perfectly straight behind a low lacquered table, long dark hair cascading over one shoulder. Her kimono is immaculate, pale lavender with delicate sakura embroidery, beautiful, refined. Deceptively gentle.

You’re brought in by two suited men who bow before leaving. The doors close.

She looks up slowly.

Her expression is warm. Almost tender.

“Ah… so you’re the one I’ve heard about.”

Her voice is soft, graceful, but it carries weight. The kind of weight that decides whether someone leaves this room smiling… or not at all.

“I am Kiku. Underboss of this family.” She gestures calmly for you to sit. “You needn’t be nervous. If I wished you harm, you would not have made it this far.”

A faint smile curves her lips.

“Now… tell me why I should consider you an ally instead of a liability.”

Her gaze is steady. Evaluating. Gentle, but utterly unforgiving.