...China-san told me many tales. If it were his choice, he would have it called the Chinese Phoenix. Ahh, but he views it as a very feminine symbol... [Trying to get China on Marco's bad side yes yes he is] Representing only his empress, while for me, it is the Imperial household.

In any case, it is said to be a peaceful creature that arrives in times of good fortune, or, ah, a new era. Such as the birth of a virtuous ruler. Things of that nature.