I reckon it would start more like:
Kakita Yoshi struggled not to roll his eyes at Yasuki Taka's toothy grin. Apparently, the Yasuki daimyo had only just managed to dress himself correctly for this audience.
Who does he think he's kidding here?
Yoshi had heard disturbing rumors about Taka's shameful indulgences. Masquerading as a low life merchant to pry a few coins out of poor heimin. Would he dare to play the bumpkin at court, as well?
"Golly gee, that sure is a pretty zither," Taka guffawed. The Imperial Chancellor knew this would be a tedious conversation.
Edited by Manchu