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294.285714 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "birdverse",
"message": "As the Hour of the Hare started with the new dawn, the city stretching its limbs and waking up, Matsu Sawako was there to greet the gates to the Lion Embassy. She was dressed formally for the occasion. A colourful kimono in a style most reserved for married women. Modest with short sleeves and a wide supportive obi, her daisho secured by golden cords bound by three distinct bird-shaped netsuke. \n\nThough she was as fresh to the city as the new day was, the proud samurai wasted little time in her new assignment, giving orders to her small retinue and Embassy servants alike as if she'd always been here. \n\n\"You there. Please, send word to the ambassador at her earliest convenience, that Matsu Sawako has finally arrived, and will wait as long as necessary in the gardens to make her acquaintance.\" A firm, respectful order followed by a long exhale under her breath. In truth, there was a nervous eagerness to put the journey through Scorpion lands behind her, to acclimate as quickly as possible. Though a small journey by Rokugan standards, crossing the mountains and trading one city for another, felt like entering a new world. \n\nThere were provisions to unpack, spring herbs and produce dried and barreled in rice bran. A few sacks of wheat, salted plums... All flavours nostalgic to Lion palates to refresh the kitchens and give those stationed here a brief taste of home. Some letters and missives from home to be sorted and given out to grateful ashigaru and samurai. At her own expense, Matsu Sawako brought along a few containers of choji oil. Sure that after the long winter and the return of rain and humidity, the blades of her compatriots were in dire need of the maintenance oil. A taste of home for them, too.\n\n\"So... This is Ryoko Owari Toshi.\" Matsu Sawako spoke softly to herself, overseeing the unpacking process to the end. She twirled the fingers of her left hand, as if she were spinning the weight of an imaginary hammer. \"I can't tell if it's the city itself that feels so tense, or if it's just me.\""
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Both.\"* The ambassador had interrupted. It was only a matter of time, not much time, before the Kitsu appeared from her office right at their assigned meeting place. Her voice was strangely fitting for her attire. After all the young Kitsu ambassador, only the age of 19, was a solid 5'0. Her eyes were a bad omen as one was blue and the other was gold. Her hair was the strangest color of all, golden blonde. The deep scars on her face were the most noticeable in her strange attire yet. Kitsu Himiko had entered the garden just like that. She would bow down towards the Matsu. *\"Matsu-san. It is good to have you here. Would you like some tea and food? The journey must've tired you out.\"* The young one spoke as servants came running out of the building. \n\nThe garden had been properly designed to drink tea thanks to the hard work of Akodo Katsuhiro. He even designed Himiko a small spot on her own, one she often used, so this time once more. She would take a seat and gestured the Matsu to do so as well. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "birdverse",
"message": "The young voice was surprising, coming so soon after the servant was sent along with the message of arrival. Matsu Sawako stood up straight and smoothed the front of her kimono out, taking a moment to let the wave of embarrassment at her spoken thoughts heard and commented on pass through her. She turned to face the Kitsu ambassador, bowing deep. \n\n \"You grace me with your presence so early, Kitsu Himiko-dono.\"\n\n Perhaps more surprising, however, was the appearance of the young ambassador. Sawako had heard descriptions, of course. Enough to recognize who she was to report to, hearing those mild stories that always seemed to follow any name of some import. An important position always attracts attention, both good and bad, so the Matsu hadn't taken the words completely on faith. After all, what Lion didn't have a scar or two? Who didn't have an edge in their eyes after seeing battle? Best to see them yourself, and judge on their prowess.\n\nBut Kitsu Himiko, despite her shorter height, had a presence Matsu Sawako hadn't counted on... Was it the bloodline peeking through? A thousand questions, but they could come in the future. \n\n \"Forgive me for not having all this sorted out before our first meeting.\" Sawako gestured with pointed wave of her hand at the unloading. \"I had hoped to spare you the trouble of things so insignificant. But, I would enjoy taking you up on your offer! To make it by daylight, I marched the caravan with lantern and the light of the city as a guide... So tea and a taste of warm food would be a blessing.\" \n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"There is no need to apologize.\"* Himiko stated as the blue and golden eye traced the servants serving a lot of food and tea. *\"It is good to have you here. That would be the significant part.\"* She would smile at the Matsu. She had been seated as a grand dog, perhaps even taller than the Kitsu stood, settled down next to Himiko. The dog would curiously stare at the Matsu, back at the Kitsu and back at the Matsu. \n\n*\"I am glad your journey went well however. Please, eat.\"* Himiko gestured to the food before bowing to the servants and thanking them for their work. She had eyed the dog so it wouldn't take the invitation of eating too literally. After all it was a curious yet mischievous being sometimes. She would place her tiny hand on it's grand head. *\"After all a spontanious visit like this is always a reason to have a cup of tea over. But then again, I did expect you, just not so soon.\"* The Kitsu had chuckled as she took a pair of chopsticks, poored the tea and started to eat away at some of the food. \n\n*\"How do you like the city Matsu-san? Have you seen much of it already? If not, I could ask one of your clansmates to give you a tour. They'd be delighted to meet a Matsu to be fair.\"* She stated. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "birdverse",
"message": "You can always tell a soldier by the speed at which they eat. Sawako clapped her hands once in a silent prayer for the meal as the servants laid it out for the two samurai. Too used to needing to get back to marching and other duties, scant time set aside for meals. Even as she tried to be cordial and polite towards her host, engaging the young Kitsu in conversation, Matsu Sawako ate quickly. The morning meal and hot tea were a welcome relief too good to pass up on. \n\n\"I can't say I've ever seen a yojimbo so fierce.\" She offered a joke, gesturing with her tea cup at the giant dog that came to join them and take a seat at Himiko's side. The Matsu almost smiled, seeing the affection as Himiko placed her hand on the dog's head. \"Owned by you, I assume? The two of you must have grown up together, judging by the sheer size of the beast.\"\n\nSetting her chopsticks and tea cup down, Matsu Sawako stretched out her back and called for her attendant, telling him to fetch 'the thing' from their supplies before turning back toward the table. \"I haven't seen enough of the city to give a fair assessment... I had hoped to play the tourist today, and begin work at the forge tomorrow. A guide would be wonderful, if you can spare someone to humour me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"You should see my actual Yojimbo.\"* Himiko had chuckled at the Matsu before nodding her head. *\"Your judgement is swift and fair Matsu-san. Ilu-san has been with me ever since I can remember.\"* She would take another bite. Himiko would smile at seeing the Matsu enjoy the food at least a little bit. \n\n*\"Well, I could ask Miu-san to guide you around. She's my Yojimbo. Otherwise I could ask one of the others to guide you around.\"* Himiko would nod her head and set down her food and drink some tea. \n\n*\"As for the forge. I wish to build a big one for you here. Your ambitions should be ours as well.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "birdverse",
"message": "\"Miu-san, Ilu-san.\" Sawako repeated the names out loud, mentally adding to the notes on all the new places, people, and the occasional adorably huge pet that she'd be getting to know. Though seated, the Matsu bowed her head forward at the kind offer and ambitious proclamation. \"Offering your yojimbo is very kind, Ambassador. I'm not so picky to make demands. Whoever is available and free to humour a sightseer!\"\n\nThe Matsu samurai's assistant carefully interrupted, bringing with him what he was asked to fetch from Sawako's personal belongings. At first glance, it looked like a plain, wakizashi, though oddly out of proportion. The iron blade was blunt and dull, unable to hold an edge. The fixtures small and designed for tiny, clumsy hands. \n\n\"A Matsu begins training at five or six... Young, by most standards.\" Sawako held the small katana as an offering, her words careful and rehearsed. \"To get used to the weight, the feel of a sword, practice drawing the sword, how to care for it... I've made many of these for my own children and their cousins among the Lions. I've come to see them as symbols of new beginnings and aspirations, Himiko-dono, and I hope this comes to represent ours.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 290 | 2,060 |
214.285714 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Letters had been exchanged, and a time chosen that would best suit the Lion and Phoenix ambassadors to begin official talks of alliance. *Something that I would not have considered with the previous Lion ambassador and her retinue.* Iemon mused to himself as he approached the Lion embassy. His formal kimono of state was worn proudly, the mon of the Phoenix emblazoned on the flame-colored fabric. \n\nHis escort left him at the gate, more for show of propriety than due to any real fear of harm to his person. Even had there been, he still felt enough confidence in his abilities that he would not have inconvenienced the Phoenix personnel that had accompanied him. He gave a short, but grateful bow. \"I believe I can take it from here.\" \n\nIemon turned to the Lion's guards. \"Ambassador Shiba Iemon, here to see Ambassador Kitsu Himiko.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "The guards however did nothing but bow down to him as from the shadows a man scurried. A friendly face nonetheless, not one Iemon had seen before however. The man would bow down. *\"It is an honor to be able to welcome you here in our embassy Shiba-sama.\"* The man stood tall once more before guiding Iemon towards the office. \n\n*\"My wife has been awaiting you. I hope you like fried chicken and some tea?\"* The man questioned before the journey through the well cleaned and simply decorated building went rather fast. There was nothing out of the ordinary other than the omamori that Miu had put up here and there. When they arrived the doors opened on their own when the Kitsu knocked. In the doorframe stood Himiko, bowing down to Iemon. Smiling grand. \n\n*\"Welcome.\"* \n\nShe gestured for him to follow her and take a seat after the proper greetings. She would do the same, just on the other side of the desk. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"It is an honor to be welcomed, Kitsu-san.\" Iemon made a point to match the bow of the man who had identified himself as Himiko's spouse. \"I am both humbled and grateful for the hospitality that is so freely offered.'\" \n\nIemon followed, acknowledging respectfully the simple but efficient decorations of the Lion Embassy. He returned Himiko's smile upon her entrance, bowing deeply himself. \"Thank you, Ambassador Kitsu-sama. I have been looking forward to our meeting.\" \n\nHe followed her gestures efficiently, seating himself once all proper greetings had been observed. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"How have you been?\"* Himiko asked out of politeness. She was not sure if small talk would be the way to go in things like this. Especially not after all that had occured after their last meeting. That and Katsuhiro had joined them to back her up. Now she was on her own trying to behave like the adult the Champion expected her to be. In the distance she could hear the clouds rumble. The kami had been trying to release their energy in ways that would frighten many. \n\nFor a moment Himiko would look behind her as she had heard the first signs of dripping rain down the rooftop of the embassy, landing behind her as the doors had been opened. A fresh gust of air one could say the least. She would turn back to look at Iemon. A polite smile grew on her face. \n\n*\"I suppose the kami want to hear what we have to say.\"* She mentioned when the rain started to audibly fall down. Causing whoever could be listening from afar to hear their voices as muffled. Perfect. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Well enough, Kitsu-sama. Thank you for asking.\" Iemon led, with a customary politeness, though with the privacy of closed doors his demeanor was more aloof than usual for him. He paused, listening to the rain begin for a moment and nodded. \"Indeed, I suppose they must. We certainly are living in interesting times, and more eyes than our own mundane ones are likely fixed upon Ryoko Owari Toshi, hm?\"\n\nHe let a moment of silence pass, turning back to her once again. \"I suppose I should congratulate you for your recent victory in the name of lawful action against criminals who flaut the Empire's laws. The work done by the honorable Lion, Unicorn, and Crane clans was obviously necessary and deserving of praise. It must have been truly a great threat to encourage such cooperation between not only the Children of Shinjo, but the Left and Right Hands of the Emperor?\" Iemon bowed in respect. \"I only was surprised to have not heard of the event after the fact, rather than hearing of it prior.\" \n\nIt was intended as a gentle reproof of having been left as deeply in the dark as the other four Clans had been, and his delivery was not harsh. A hint of hurt may have been detected, but the words were not laced with the usual double-meanings one would often expect from the more politically motivated. His own concerns regarding the Crane he still intended to keep close to his own chest. *Besides, if they have managed to infiltrate my own embassy's staff, who is to say they have not managed to do so to others?*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"If only one detail had leaked to the wrong one. Death would've followed for many of us. Including me.\"* With that, if Iemon had any knowledge of lion warfare, Himiko admitted that she broke some of the laws doing so. The young Kitsu would tilt her head. *\"And I assumed you'd disapprove of such plans of active violence. I apologize for assuming.\"* There was only a truthful speech here. Himiko could not lie even if she wished to do so. Her cursed eyes of misfortune would stare at him. *\"Or did you wish to have blood on your hands as well?\"* First Kazuko now Iemon. Were they all going to shun her for wanting to be part of making the world a better place? \n\n*\"I hope these decisions will not give you doubt in our faith and honor.\"* Himiko would pour the Phoenix ambassador tea. He was admirable to say the least. Having to deal with so much trouble at once and not one hair turning as pale as a crane's. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon took a sip of tea, measuring his response as he inclined his head in gratitude for the drink. \"Your caution is understandable, and your judgment of my response... Well, accurate. While I would have disapproved, as allies we will likely have to hear words we may not like. Compromise and sharing goals is a necessity. At minimum, we could have provided additional aid or counsel should you have convinced the Phoenix to involve themselves in a just cause.\" \n\nHe sighed, setting the tea down. \"I do not come to lecture or talk down to you, Kitsu-sama. As I have come to learn, thinking of the past and dwelling on good or bad is not productive. The past simply *Is,* And the present is left to us to define our futures.\n\n\"Please believe there is very little that could convince me to doubt the faith or honor of the Lion. Not in the city at large, nor in the heart of their embassy.\" A small twinkle of humor crossed his eyes at that last note, but it did not take away from the sincerity of his words.\n\n||"
}
] | 214 | 1,500 |
331.071429 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "It had been roughly a month since Akodo Katsuhiro had arrived in Ryoko Owari Toshi with two units of soldiers to try and appraise and settle tensions in the city, as well as evaluate both the embassy and the city for whatever may come to face the Loin. In his original band he had brought on his Chui, Ikoma Miho of the Third Company, while his other Chui, led by the First Company, remained in Lion lands waiting word of his orders. Alongside Miho, he had brought two units of Ashigaru led by a Nikutai of the First Company, the Elite Guard, and a Nikutai of Ikoma's own company, bushi who had experience fighting the Unicorn. It gave them a diverse force to supplement the Embassy's own guard, which had only consisted of a Nikutai and some twenty Ashigaru. They were close to bursting here, but thankfully Ikoma Miho was an excellent officer that he knew he could count on. In fact, he had brought her specifically because her nature was on that he did not need to worry about in a den of temptation, and she had the etiquette skills needed to navigate a city with the presence and tensions of the whole Empire.\n\nAnd that was partially why he was calling her in here. She was being a little too good at her job in the functions he needed her to be on a regular basis, but she seemed to be almost completely isolated, and he needed her to be an example to the others in how to conduct themselves in the city. He needed her to be his right hand in the city.\n\nThe meeting room was unfortunately bereft of the appropriate feng shui that would hopefully be achieved soon. Kitsu Himiko had let him borrow her meeting room for his own when she did not need it, but outside the shoji panel doors was a massive mess of the study garden he was attempting to build for her. Piles of dirt, trees planted by tied with stakes and rope to stay in place. A dug out but un-finished koi fish pond. Rocks not yet all in place as they should be. He had the inspiration to make something beutiful, but not yet.\n\nA moment later, one of the panels slid open and a heimin bowed deeply, letting him know that Miho was there to see him. Akodo nodded and agreed to let her in.\n\nOnce inside the room with him, Katsuhiro would give her a friendly smile, but not one that was out of place for an official meeting.\n\n\"Ikoma-san, thank you for coming so quickly. Tell me, how do you feel you are settling into The City?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho was, if possible, even more put together than usual. You could almost count on a hand the loose hair that had managed to escape her severe hairstyle, and she wore a bit more makeup than usual- partially to hide her eyebags. The last days had been gruelling, but she d be damned before she would let anyone, especially her commander, find a visible proof of it. As he saluted her, she bowed athletically, keeping her face parallel to the ground as she answered. \"Of course. I am always at your service, Akodo-sama.\"\n\nShe waited for him to tell her to raise, and then she did, standing straight like a pillar as she reflected on his question. Frankly... She doesn't know what to answer. For the last days, her world has been reduced to the small room she has taken as her quarters, and the cramped space of her desk. The little she had seen of Ryoko Owari, as she entered the city with him, was already enough to make her vomit. She opted for a diplomatic answer.\n\"...It is an insidious place, but that is the reason we are here, after all. I apologise, I am not fully ready for this question. I have rarely went out of the embassy since our arrival.\" An overstatement, she had barely left her rooms. A part of her could already imagine what Katsuhiro was aiming to ask with that question. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro gestured for her to sit on the pillow on the opposite side of the table from him. She was stiff and and ever the proper officer, and he imagined other people saw him the way he saw her right now as well. At least from outside the clan. But it seemed while Katsuhiro had felt he at least tried to adapt to the battlefield, Miho was trying to keep herself away from the insidiousness... Which was not a surprise, but she would need to grow as he was trying to as well.\n\n\"You are, as always, the very model of a Chui. That is part of why I chose you for this particular mission. Unlike many other officers and soldiers, your conduct is beyond reproach, and I do not need to worry about you when it comes to sake and opium, nor did I bring anyone along that I was *Overly* Concerned with.\"\n\nAkodo poured some tea for the both of them as the room was empty and he wanted it to stay that way.\n\n\"This city is a battleground for the entire empire. I have learned that it is in fact the second largest city in the Empire. There are more Heimin in this city than in most of our provinces. Akodo Toturi-sama, and Shireikan-sama, have given us an incredible responsibility for maintaining order here, and as with all of our other battles, I intend to fight to win. While we are here, however, to the extent that we operate in this city, our Shireikan is Ambassador Kitsu Himiko-sama. She speaks with the voice of our Clan Champion.\"\n\nHe took the small tea cup in hand, blew on it once, and then took a sip.\n\n\"As long as this city is an Imperial holding under Otomo-sama, we have one hand tied behind our back, and unfortunately it is our sword hand. Therefore, our resources are connections and information. Leverage. Courtier *Kuso*.\" Akodo swore, something he rarely did, but did so for emphasis this time.\n\n\"The Ambassador means to make the Lion clan the bedrock of this Imperial holding. We have proven before that we could take this city by force, but we have also seen recently with Toshi Ranbo, that those gains are just koku to be bartered with at Winter Court. We aim to prove we are capable of something that no clan has ever been able to do in the past. Take and hold the City of lies. I know you are aware of the Scorpion's attempt at starting a war with Lion and Unicorn, but taking this city from them would be perhaps the most embarrassing strike the Lion has ever made against the Scorpion clan.\"\n\nHe took another sip, he had been talking too long, and he was certain she would have questions.\n\n\"I brought you here to be my right hand, Ikoma-san. I greatly appreciate you taking on the duties of Chui, and the duties of Ikoma Kenshin while he was gone. You have done both without complaint or error, and you have done so effortlessly. But I need my *Hisha* On the Shogi board.\" It was not infrequent for Katsuhiro to make Shogi analogies, this time referencing her as one of the most powerful pieces on the board.\n\n\"Do you understand?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho understood what her taisa was asking of her halfway through, but she wouldn't even dream of interrupting him, sitting rigidly on the pillow until he was done. The idea of diving in the city's politics didn't thrill her, but it didn't scare her either; she had already navigated in the treacherous courts of Rokugan, to prove she could be more than a brutish soldier. If this was what her Lord needed of her, she would do it. As always.\n\n\"I understand, Akodo-sama.\" She said stiffly, as she ordered her thoughts. She took a risk and spoke again, hoping she would not involuntarily interrupt him. \"Then, what would you have me do? As you wisely said, I am but a piece on the checkboard. You are the player.\" Privately, she hoped she would get to deal with the Scorpion. She didn't like the Unicorn either, but she had a particular distaste for the clan of lies, and it would bring her great pleasure to hound them in their own lair. Perhaps even uncover some scandal with the cartel...\n*Back to earth, Miho.* She scolded herself severely. She had the vice of fantasising on future accomplishments; not that she thought she couldn't really do them, but daydreaming was not a productive activity.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo gave a small huff of air, like a laugh that was cut short. \"Even I am not the player, nor Kitsu-sama, but she is as close to one as the analogy will go.\"\n\nIt was good that she was on board with this, it took less than he was worried that it might to convince her she would need to get involved in this way, but she was the most savvy of his chui in this way. The others were all very deferential to him, and obediant soldiers and gifted commanders, but Miho had a fire in her that the others lacked, and that would serve her well here.\n\n\"I have a couple of Irons in the fire. Kitsu Himiko-sama is handling the diplomatic relations with the clans as far as alliances and manuvering goes on that end, but we are still mostly blind. I have tasked Ikoma Maeda-san with doing some investigating. He is currently working on a peace keeping mission alongside all of the other clans. The Otomo requested each clan send one samurai to help deal with some of the heimin unrest.\"\n\nTaking another sip of his tea, he continued on. \"Due to the politics of the enemy of my enemy is my friend, we currently have a friendship with the Unicorn of the city to train the heimin to defend themselves, and to learn organizational tactics such as checkpoints and patrols in order to try and cut into the criminal element and the control the Cartels have over the city. This is only phase one of getting back at the Scorpion.\"\n\nHe pushed a copy of the letter he had received from Himiko across the table to Miho so she could read it. It addressed the details of the plan.\n\n\"Further, in a few days time we will begin training the headmen and other leaders of the community in basic hand to hand and formations. I will be there to start things off, as I am the one who had the initial meeting with the Unicorn Chui Utaku Masanori-san, but I will eventually leave the drilling to you and whatever off duty samurai we can spare for the exercise. Under no circumstances will the heimen be given metal weapons.\"\n\nHe paused at that point, letting her ask questiosn before he continued on even further.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She simplt nodded her head, absorbing diligently all this information. This plan was... Uncharasterical, but Katsuhiro had always been an uncharasterical commander. \"I see, Akodo-sama. If I may dare, how do we know the heimin wont be using this training for the Scorpion? They have held the city for far longer than anyone else, and i imagine they might have ways to buy the people s loyalty.\" Before reaching for the letter, she quietly asked permission to do so with her eyes, and once she received it, she bowed her head respectfully, raising the paper to her eyes.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo smiled at her question, \"I had the same concern, but right now the heimin have been abused thoroughly by the incompetant leadership of the Scorpion, and that is part of why there is an Imperial Governor. We hope, by giving them a small feeling of control over their lives, that this buys good will towards Samurai in general, showing that we are not heartless abusers, but also good will specifically for the Lion and the Unicorn. Could this end up helping a member of a cartel or two? Perhaps, but the Cartels already have means and methods of their own backed by the Scorpion Clan. This is our counter play to their long estabished hold. Phase two will begin to deal with them more directly.\"\n\nAkodo nodded, letting her read the letter.\n\n\"We also need to build connections within the city. If we were ever to take and try to hold the city, because we are deep in Scoprion lands, we will need allies to hold it. While they may not be formal clan alliance between our Champions, the Ambassadors here do have more sway than common among diplomats. Trade up the river via Mantis and Crab are particularly important, but the Unicorn are also adjacent here. You know as well as I do that an army can only go as far as their supply chain will take them.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "This time her nod was more hesitant. She was polite, watchful and considerate, but no one had ever called her amicable. She was not sure of how much use she could be in securing alliances, and with the Mantis of all... They could be a Great Clan now, but she d not forget easily about the time they were raider and freebooters. Many still were, actually. *It is not up to you to decide. If this is what the clan needs, so be it.*\n\n\"I understand, Akodo-sama. However I am sure there are far more skilled diplomats than me that are handling those connections. How can I help in such a delicate endeavour? I shall do my best regardless.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro knew ahead of time that this would be the most difficult part of this conversation. Miho was often times like a tightly drawn bowstring. Whiel the Matsu were infamous for releasing the bowstring, if you kept a bow drawn taunt too long, it would break or lose its strength. He himself had at least enough self awareness to know he was guilty of this as well, though not quite to the extent that Miho was.\n\n\"Kitsu-sama and I will handle the formalities of an alliance, and indeed have already made good progress. Instead, what I am looking for from you is two pronged. One, I need you to meet with members of the other clans and establish a relationship with them in the manner that meeting and exchanging information is a casual occurrence. Not in the way Crane do, but we need to know what the plays are. We may not get a Crane to talk about Crane alliances, but perhaps the Mantis will. Having friends to have tea with in each of the clans is important for the flow of information. Second, I need you to be an example of conduct. Go out with the Lions when they go out into the city, let them see how you act, and monitor how they act. We cannot allow carelessness or stupidity to cause us to stumble. There has been enough damage done in this city by errant samurai who do not mind their honor or their ancestors. The Lion will be an example of samurai conduct in the city, and this example will make the Otomo feel comfortable leaning on our clan as the right hand of the Emperor. This, in turn, will give us more liberty and power in the city.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho didn't flinch, but she came really, really close. Not only she would have to go out and act all friendly with samurai of questionable honor, but she d also have to set the example for her fellow Lions, which meant any misstep of hers would resonate deeply on her reputation. She hadn't thought this would be easy,but the prospects for this mission were almost depressing. *Don't be a whimp. So what if you re not equipped for this situation? Just grow into this role. A samurai must learn to excel in all things.*\n\nShe bowed to her lord, perhaps a bit stiffer than before. If she d have to relax to do this, she was in for a bad start; she felt as if her all her muscles were tensing for a jump. \"I am flattened by your trust, Akodo-sama, I will do my best. Where can I find information on the other clans' delegations? I will need to document myself properly for this mission.\" It would almost sound comical, if her face wasn't the exact opposite of comical; even when trying to make friends, her first approach to the matter was to find some books about them and study their characters like a fortress she needed to siege.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "He had expected some push back, but unflinching acceptance of her orders was very much a Miho characteristic. Still, he knew that this would be something she would struggle with. It was something *He* Struggled with as well. Not only did the clan need this though, both of them needed to grow in this skill.\n\n\"Miho-san.\" Akodo changed his address and his tone, indicating to her that what followed was more informal, from one friend to another.\n\n\"I realize that this is a... Unprecedented task I have given to you. I felt the same way when this task was given to *Me*. I am not the first Taisa one would expect to send to this den of vipers. An Ikoma Taisa with more special operations experience, or more winter court experience would be better suited. We are being given a chance to prove ourself capable of adapting. When the Children of Ki-rin returned with their cavalry, they swept the Shadowlands and the Empire all the way to Otosan Uchi. In the War of the Plains we expected Cavalry, and they played upon our expectations. Their current Ambassador is *Taisa Utaku Kazuko*.\"\n\nThe name would be one Miho remembered from the War of the Plains, she was an exceptionally gifted commander who never engaged in the way that the Lion predicted, always keeping one clever maneuver ahead of them.\n\n\"I know you wish to have command of your own legion one day, if not an entire army, but the only people who gain the rank of Shireikan without being born to it are those who can play the game. I have gone as far as merit will get you on its own. Do well in this city, at this task, and it may land you an invite to Winter Court at Otosan Uchi. Whatever you think of the vipers here, the capital is even worse. This city is the training ground for that, the contacts you make here will likely end up there some day as well, and you need to have those pieces on your own shogi board.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She had to force herself to relax her shoulders as Katsuhiro called her in a more familiar way; even with the people she cherished, it was never easy for her to let down her walls, always something she needed to focus on. Her lips pursed as He mentioned Kazuko, an expression that radiated both terse respect and wary hostility, but as he got to speak of her ambitions, her eyes softened imperceptibly. Miho liked to think of her mind as impenetrable to the eyes of others, but Katsuhiro was always ready to humble her on that matter. She bowed deeply, placing her hands on the floor as she touched the ground with her forehead. \n\"Thank you, Akodo-sama. I will not disappoint your expectations.\"\n\nShe didn't dare take any familiarities as he did with her, but in her mind she replaced the \"Akodo\" With *Katsuhiro*-sama. She wanted to grow past this position, to raise in the ranks and reach as high as she possibly could, but all she wanted for her Taisa was happiness and prosperity. \"Then, with your leave... I would go brush up my tea set. I suppose that at least I will get to make a tea ceremony without worrying an archer will notice the glint of my cups.\" If it was a joke, Miho did not smile, but it was as close to playful as she could get. It took her years to feel comfortable enough to take such liberties with her Taisa.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro held in a bit of disappointment when Miho bowed her head to the floor, not because she did anything wrong, but because that level of deference was not what he had been hoping for in calling her by her name. He had hoped, by switching as he had, that she would let down her walls more, or call him by his name has he had given her leave to do when they were alone and not in the command tent on official business... But he supposed this was the command tent for this particular battlefield. Still, he knew she would give it all her heart.\n\n\"I know you won't.\" He said to her promise not to disappoint him. Ever task had a proper tool, every opponent a proper strategy, and she was the one he had bet his success here on.\n\nA wry smile crossed Katsuhiro's face as Miho made a comment about her tea set. It had been a long time since he had even heard her mention them. He couldn't tell if it was a joke or not, but he took it as one. \n\n\"If anything was broken or needs to be replaced, you could seek out Yoritomo Takeya-san, I believe he would be able to help you.\"\n\nAs she moved to leave, he called out to her one last time, \"Oh, and for the love of the ancestors, if a Dragon shugenja, or anyone else invited you to the Juniper Teahouse, just decline. Do not go there for any reason.\" He shook his head, thinking of the mistake that he himself almost made setting foot in there.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She stops on the door, her eyebrows raising slightly. She would have liked to ask more information about why, but right now, she had more important things to take care of. Like, first of, find out how the hell city samurai usually make friends.\n\n\"It shall be done, Akodo-sama. Please call me if anything troubles you.\" She bows once more, for about the sixth time in the short meeting, and leaves the room, making sure to not give her back to him until the door was closed. Finally, out alone, she let herself sigh; Katsuhiro was a good commander. Better than she deserved. He deserved a chui that could dedicate themselves fully to his service, without chasing selfish objectives... But alas, that was not her.\n\n||"
}
] | 304 | 4,635 |
243.7 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo Katsuhiro, Taisa of the Lion clan and head of the garrison at Ryoko Owai had sent for two of the members of the embassy he needed for a particular set of missions. Akodo Sozen, diplomat and defense against the underhanded dealings of the city, and Ikoma Maeda, the one who was perhaps best familiar with the goings on of slightly different underhanded dealings within the city. He had a need for both of them, and for them to work together. So he sat there in the war room, maps splayed out across the table, and his scribe, Ikoma Kenshin sitting at a small table off in the corner working on some of the logistics as well as figuring out how to pay for everything. Just outside of a different shoji panel than the one they would enter through was a servant with tea being warmed up for the men. *We have much to do, and little time to do it in*"
},
{
"author": "saristabutler",
"message": "Ikoma Maeda walked through the garrison at his usual measured pace, fast enough to not draw attention but slow enough to digest the surrounding halls and map out the comings and goings of those around him. Having received a summons he came as fast as possible as duty demands it. Not being directly familiar with the Taisa he paused outside of the door taking in a quiet centring breath before stepping in.\n\nOnce in the room he began scanning it left to right checking the panels, servants, exits and maps. Only once this task was finished would he affix his gaze forward to Akodo Katsuhiro and give a small bow just deep enough to be considered polite.\n\n**\"Akodo-sama, thank you for waiting i came as soon as i received word. Given the maps have you some plan which you wish my service in?\"**\n\nHe lightly gestures over the largest of maps on the table."
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"Ah, Ikoma-san, please come in.\" Katsuhiro gave him a respectful bow given their difference in rank, but this was his first time working with Ikoma, and he wanted to establish a good rapport, since they would be working together a lot in the coming weeks and months. He gestured for the man to sit, \"I am indeed Akodo Katsuhiro, and this\" He gestured with a nod of his head to the corner, \"Is Ikoma Kenshin, my Karo.\" The gave Maeda a formal, but friendly smile and a slight bow of acknowledgement before he went back to work.\n\n\"He has been at my side since his gempuku, so you can trust him.\"\n\nAkodo gestured at the maps in front of him, \"Yes, I have been examinging the maps we have of the city. Our predecessors had made arrangements with the previous Governor, the now departed former Scorpion Governor, for us and the Crab clan to survey and repair the walls of the city. That may become relevent eventually, but not specifically what I am calling you in here for.\"\n\nHe gestured to the papers in front of him and picked one of them, \"I have been reading through the files on the Lion stationed here in the city, and I came across some interesting skills you have. I believe that our embassy is a bit... Lacking... When it comes to the projection of strength and stability that one would expect from a Lion clan embassy. However, as this is a city controlled by an Imperial Governor, we are not going to build a castle here. I was hoping we could use some of your expertise to help with the defense of certain critical areas from a varity of.. Needs.\" *Some Nightingale floors, and perhaps some easy to errect barricades for the entrances* Akodo had summoned the man here to see what weaknesses he could find, and ideas he could come up with for defense."
},
{
"author": "saristabutler",
"message": "He quickly returns Ikon Kenshin's bow before continuing.\n\n**\"Yes Akodo-sama I had made note of certain lacking on the way in, I had planned to bring it up in a more polite manner but this provided a reasonable point to mention. In particular most of the windows near the outer wall show a lot of faith in the honourable behaviour of others.\"**\n\nHe takes his seat sitting in a rather stuff posture indicating he is yet to become at ease in this situation. Gesturing around the map highlighting what he thinks are key details or weak locations\n\n**\"I shall assess these points. This task can be difficult to perform whilst maintaining decorum but rest assured I will do my best as will our enemies\"**\n\nHe then began scanning Katsuhiro up and down assessing his dress and posture.\n\n**\"And of you, I may have to ask you some questions verging on the overly familiar, I mean nothing by it of course but our weakest points and weakest moments are often the most personal. Strictly for security I assure you, The glory and security of our clan means everything to me.\"**"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"As you say, it can be difficult while maintaining decorum. We cannot dress up the embassy as a fortress. Aside from making us look scared, it also could be taken as a slight to the ability of the Otomo family to maintain safety within the city. Therefore, rather than bars or reinforced windows as an example, we could perhaps brace critical ones shut from the inside. We cannot put up a gate to a castle over the entrance, but perhaps having some barricades we could... Store discretely out of site, but then bring out should we need to block cavalry, or line Ashigaru with spears behind, would be advantageous to have. We can also compensate by adjusting our watch positions and patrols.\"\n\nMaeda's response gave Katsuhiro confidence that this was the right man for the job.\n\n\"When you have recommendations, put together a list of supplies and patrol changes and give it to Ikoma-san. He shall make the arrangements.\"\n\nAkodo almost raised an eyebrow at Maeda's question, but information was a valuable resource and he understood that the man likely delt in it as currency. Plus, unlike the new staff that Akodo had brought with him, Maeda was not one of his.\n\n\"Go ahead, ask your questions.\""
},
{
"author": "saristabutler",
"message": "**\"You must consider that the security of this place extends outside it. Anywhere you go, anywhere i go and anywhere the staff go. If it may walk around in here with little to no question then it poses a risk. Should you have habits which you may not wish to share, consider them much more than you do now. If it involves others in any other way then you have an entrance to here. Finally those whom serve us within the building, Extend jin to them greatly. It is easy to look beyond them which may cause you to miss warning signs or worse an enemy walking right by\"**\n\nHe pauses for a moment allowing his finger to casually hover above and trace an entrance route into the building.\n\n**\"You have my confidence as clan but in matters of security complete confidentiality. I have been enjoying some time out of the spotlight in the city and established a small footing but now i feel i must come to the fore some what more.\"**"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo nodded along with Maeda's words, it was something that was already being investigated after their recent issues with document theft.\n\n\"You are correct, Ikoma-san, but for such things is why I have called \n\nKatsuhiro took another long sip of his tea, and then placed the small cup back on the table.\n\n\"I also have a few other things for you to look into. The former ambassador, and the former governor had made arrangements with the Lion and the Crab to assess and repair the walls of the city. I will hopefully be attending a meeting with the Imperial Governor soon to discuss this, but we have already received license to survey the walls. In addition to this work, I would like for you to assesss the many gates of the city, and specifically which could best be used for troop movement through the city, as well as which of the outer gates are the largest and *Most challenging to defend*. Perhaps they could make use of guard towers akin to what is found on the Kaiu wall. Specifically our task is to asses the city's ability to withstand a siege.\" He tapped his chin, \"The bridges are also critical infrastructure to appraise.\"\n\nAkodo paused for a long moment, \"If you are to head to the fisherman's side, or the leatherworkers quarter, I would recommend not going alone. There have been incidents with the heimin that has caused them to become restless and they may take unlikely to a lone, roaming samurai. I would at minimum take Nikutai Matsu Kozue with you, if not one or two Ashigaru in addition.\""
},
{
"author": "saristabutler",
"message": "**\"I have yet to have the honour of meeting Akodo-san, I am keen to do so and receive his wisdom on these matters as someone of undoubted skill in the area\"**\n\nMaeda lifts his tea cup and swirls it gently, breathing in the smells of it before taking a small sip and savouring it.\n\n**\"Do we have any specific members of the Crab clan that we are to work with in this duty, I do so admire the craftsmanship of their clan. A second pair of eyes can always help as well as allowing inroads for us.\"**\n\nHe places his cup down and stares intently at the fisherman's side on the map.\n\n**\"This area is of my interest to quite a degree actually, Its current situation is undesirable however i believe a desirable look for it is not as far from the current state as many others would think. I thank you deeply for the advice on whom i should take with me when i inevitably visit\"**"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo finished his tea and set it down, glacing towards the door that still did not open. Something must be keeping Akodo-san, or else he left before Katsuhiro's message reached him. It is a shame, as the two of them were intended to work together on these missions. A task for another time.\n\n\"It seems Akodo-san has not be able to meet us, I shall try and brief him seperately so that you two can catch up at a later time. As to your question, unfortunatey there is not a large Crab representation in the city. I met a courtier by the name of Yasuki Umeo-san who seems very well connected. There was a Kaiu who was helping us with the wall at some point, but I cannot find a name mentioned in the reports. I shall give you a writ that will hopefully help you if you need to go to the Civil hall and get permission to show the Thunder Guard for your investigation. Further, if you need an introduction for your investigations into the underworld of the city, I belive that Kitsu Miu has a connection that may be of help. Due to the nature of this connection, I have not pried. Please handle this with the utmost discretion.\"\n\nIkoma Kenshin cleared his throat in the background, and Akodo Katsuhiro looked off into the distance for a moment before nodding his head.\n\n\"Do you have any other questions? I wish I could give you more specific order, but for now we are in the gathering intel stage.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "saristabutler",
"message": "Standing up form his seat in a practiced manuever keeping his gaze towards the others in the room Maeda repeats his bow from earlier. \n\n**\"No more questions Akodo-sama, You have provided more than enough information.\"** \n\nAs he slid the writ into his hand he took a second just to assess it.\n\n**\"We have many unknowns infront of us and till we find out that which we do not know it is my duty to work on this. I shall endevour to make some in roads to the crab in the city as well as seek out Kitsu-san\"**\n\nOne final repetition of the bow is given before Maeda turns around and quickly makes his exit with a purposeful stride. \n\n||"
}
] | 212 | 2,437 |
192.333333 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had awaited the letter of Moshi Kana with great joy. Miu had claimed the garden to drink tea in and write out all the plans. She had, if not accidentally, scared off her fellow lions and servants around the embassy. She simply was too excited. So now she sat there. Waiting for Kana as she made one servant stay to brew them tea. \n\nThe giant lion sat on a small soft mat whilst doing some stretches. After all she did not miss out on practice due to this. She had just finished punching the straw dummy several times. \n\nThe sun shone bright upon them but Miu made sure there was shelter as well. Now she simply sat there like a big child waiting for a present. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana seemed to be her usual cheerful self, even as she made her way to the Lion embassy. Certainly there was the requisite awkwardness that came with visiting the embassy of a clan where relations were cool, but Miu had seemed so enthusiastic in her letter, and she had a good feeling if someone of Miu's stature decided that a Mantis was welcome, then there was nothing to it but for the Mantis to be welcome.\n\nAs opposed to her training gi she had worn the last time she met, Kana was dressed rather casually in a looser fitting orange kimono with a floral pattern, and an obi that attempted to capture the look of a centipede wrapping around her waist; a tribute to her family, no doubt. Under her left arm, she carried a woven container of sorts.\n\n\"Oi! Kitsu-san!\" She chirped enthusiastically upon entering the gardens and seeing Miu. She offered an enthusiastic wave. \"It's a beautiful day today, isn't it? Lady sun blesses us!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had smiled grandly as she waved at Kana. *\"Moshi-sama!\"* She chimed. Sparking up with joy. Standing on both of her feet before bowing down deeply. *\"Today is wonderful! She truly blesses us!\"* The grand lion spoke. \n\n*\"May I mention that you look truly beautiful today.\"* Direct as a lion, sincere as well. Miu today wore a simple kimono, a white colored one. It was covered by an haori that was laid out with a golden gradient. The obi was a more brown ish ground tone and her hakama was a simple plain black. \n\n*\"I am honored to welcome you to our embassy. I have great plans to discuss with you!\"* Miu smirked. Gesturing to the place they could sit before pouring Kana some tea.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"O-oh! I do?\" Kana stammered, starting to turn red. \"T-thank you! That's very nice of you to say, Kitsu-san!\" She bowed once more. \"You look beautiful as well!\"\n\nClearing her throat, and managing to regain her composure, Kana made her way to the cushion to sit, placing the woven container in front of her with both hands. \"I hope you don't mind, but I made a stop to pick up some pork buns on the way over! From the sounds of your letter, it sounds as though we have some serious planning to do, so I thought a bit of good food might help the thoughts get moving!\"\n\nShe smiled brightly at Miu, bowing her head once her own cup was poured, and then in turn filled Miu's cup. She moved somewhat slowly, but had managed to avoid spilling anything.\n\n\"So! Tell me more of your plan!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had perked up even more at the idea of pork buns. She was hungry. Not that it differentiated from any moment of the day, she was always hungry. But the ideas for the spring would've been even better. Therefore she had to discuss this first.\n\nShe smiled as she waited for Kana to take a seat. The lion smiled. *\"So as for my letter, I apologize, I tend to be too direct very often. Keep in mind it is my sheer excitement leading me to this.\"* Miu brushed back her hairs as she swiftly took a sip of the steaming hot tea. Instantly regretting it as she felt the blisters on her tongue form, but one was not here to be bothered by that.\n\n*\"So the spell, the rain spell you've done, it got me thinking. I came to this city as a duty to heal as many samurai both physically and mentally from their injuries. It granted me great joy but, I am slow.\"* Miu said with regret. It was clear that she sincerely wished to help more. \n\n*\"Your spell seemed incredibly useful for this, but I cannot ask the kami to cover the radiance of Lady Sun every day over and over. So.\"* Miu grasped some scrolls from behind her. Laid them out on the table with a thud yet was cautious enough to not make the tea tumble. She rolled one of them open. \n\nA somewhat poorly drawn house was displayed, in front of it a shrine, which was only to be identified as shrine because the sign said so. \n\n*\"Why can't we combine it? A bath house, something practical where you and I can use our ability to commune with the kami, whilst honoring the kami with a grand water shrine, in a more concentrated area?\"* Miu smiled. \n\n*\"Not only will it take away the difficulties of visiting a healer because your inner ego has been damaged by your injuries, it is accessible and much less work than individual healing every day.\"* The lion gasped for air as she spoke all of this in one breath. It was clear she was overjoyed about her idea. She understood it was not practical yet and that's where Kana came in. \n\n*\"I wish to cooperate with you because it seems you're more knowledgeable about things like these!\"* Miu smirked. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Please, you've nothing to apologize for, Kitsu-san! The world could do with more excitement and passion,\" She replied, taking a seat next to her, and holding the cup in both hands. She took a small sip of tea, leaning over to examine the plans. She was able to discern the gist of what Miu was intending, artistic shortcomings aside. She looked over the floor plans, occasionally murmuring indiscernably to herself.\n\n\"Well, I thank you for your faith in my knowledge and abilities, Kitsu-san!\" She smiled brightly. \"If we are to have such a place where we will be calling upon the Kami with greater regularity, such as a healing bathouse, a shrine will certainly be necessary, as we will need to take in some substantial offerings...\" She looked at the blueprints.\n\n\"Now... We need to consider all of what would be needed. And which areas will be open-air?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had looked at Kana with great joy. The golden eyes had sparkled like a child finding a treasure for the first time in their life. Then she glanced back at the plans. It seemed she actually thought about something for once. \n\n*\"Please tell me if your opinion differs, I am not great at planning buildings. But my idea is uh. Well.\"* Miu rubbed her forehead with one of her hands. Gathering herself together once more. \n\n*\"It's the layout of a temple. The inside grand entrance will be a bath, small enough for people to feel like they walk on the water, so filled to just above the ankles. In the center would be a shrine dedicated to the kami of the water.\"* Miu then spoke. She seemed to owe some sort of focus and concentration. A bright moment. \n\n*\"To the back wall will be smaller shrines to the other kami. This will have an open roof to honor the rain that falls upon us. Behind the main room will be a grand spring of healing, to the side smaller springs for people that need a better treatment. This will be open as well, but I wish there was a system to close off the roof in case a storm comes brewing up.\"* Miu paused. Looking up at Kana in the hopes she was still following her ideas. She took a sip of her tea. \n\n*\"We can utilize the rain and springs. All natural. Which means we have to take little to nothing from the kami.\"* Miu sighed. \n\n*\"But the main problem is, Ryoko Owari Toshi has no springs. None at least close enough. Which means we either have to seek one out. Ask the Kami for it, or build one ourselves.\"* Miu stated. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Hmmm... Having a footbath right next to the shrine can certainly work, and we will need open air if we are to invoke the tears of heaven! The side springs... Hm... Perhaps if we had these covered? I don't have the mechanical knowledge, but if you are thinking more intense treatment some place a bit more private would be good. Maybe one side a hot spring, one side a cold spring, but small, with adequate space for a table or cushion for massage and recovery exercises? The Kami do a great many things, but healing is also a task we must undertake ourselves! ||Medicine 3||\"\n\nShe looked back to Miu. \"The care paid to the shrines will go far in assuring the Kami of our intention to honor them and the righteousness of our cause. I know you know the kami do not just respond to anyone. Though... They also have their limits...\"\n\nKana trailed off, her brow wrinkling in thought, and she tapped her chin. \"I am certain the kami will help us, but we risk exhausting them if we seek to have them provide all of the water themselves. Perhaps if we can build the main springs ourselves, replenish with rain, and ask for their blessing on the water...?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu nodded at the idea of the water source. *\"That or we have to find a source of a spring so we could simply borrow it.\"* Miu smirked, no clear plan in those golden eyes of her however. \n\n*\"We could seek out a wanted or loved spot by the kami, dig our springs and let it rain! Yeah. Your idea sounds three times better. I am glad you're in this with me Moshi-sama.\"* Miu admitted before taking another sip of her tea. It was clear that she was truly glad about the fact that this was actually happening. \n\n*\"Kitsu-Himiko-sama already approved us by the way! She does not mind helping us out with the build! As long as we don't cause trouble it should be fine.\"* Miu admitted. \n\n*\"What place do you think would be fitting Moshi-sama?\"* Miu questioned. ||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh?\" Kana's eyes widened with excitement. \"Do you know of a source we could use? That would help with determining where to put that and getting all the proper permissions!\" She then paused. \"Although... I suppose letting the Kami guide us to the spot would also be a good idea...\" She tapped her chin.\n\n\"There are two ideas I have in mind. One is one the outskirts, one is more central. Of which we will ask the Kami, of course! That's also great news about the ambassador! I am certain Moshi Mai-sama will also approve as well. I have a feeling she may be quite the regular there as well.\" She chuckled slightly.\n\n\"But yes! More central would be more convenient for the others, whereas with the outskirts we may be able to have a better view of the land outside the city!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu smirked. *\"Would you like to ask the Kami? I think they'd like you more.\"* The grand Lion winked at the Moshi in front of her. \n\n*\"Perhaps they'll find a place that has been abandoned for moments. We can work from there! Perhaps we can make a grand tower! It looms over the city!\"* Miu got ahead in her ideas and it was clear. Clear to herself at last. \n\n*\"But let's start looking for a place!\"* Miu smiled grandly.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana chuckled. \"Well, I certainly can, but I would not sell your own abilities short either, Kitsu-san. As I reacall, after that beating I took, I was left without so much as a bit of discomfort thanks to your work with the Kami! That said, I will not deny that being of the Mantis means that I've had to attune myself rather closely to the water Kami. I am certain if I listen carefully, I will be able to speak with them, even within the ground!\" She finished up her cup of tea, listening with rapt attention to Miu's suggestions. It was hard not to feel even more enthusiastic about the project with how in to everything Miu was!\n\n\"So... Is there a good spot for meditation, Kitsu-san? It may be easier to hear the kami with a bit of that.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had nodded. She'd set her cup of tea down before gesturing for Kana to follow. It was inside the embassy where Miu had led the Mantis. Ironically it had been her room. She'd open the sliding door to reveal a simple room but one of sheer tranquility. After Kana had entered she rolled out a tatami mat and lit some incense. She settled next to Kana. \n\n*\"This is the best we are going to get. Not to offend any of my fellow lion but they hold a lot of chaos and simply spread it everywhere.\"* The lion chuckled. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana followed Miu inside, kneeling on the tatami once it had been rolled out for her. \"It's a lovely space, Kitsu-san. There's something to be said for something more simple and peaceful.\" She then giggled. \"It seems we've something in common, then. The Mantis in some ways do live up to their reputation, when it comes to being somewhat chaotic, and as entertaining as that can be, there's a time when I'm looking for something altogether more peaceful.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had smirked at the thought of both Kana and Mai stuck between all the pirates and the chaotic mess they had brought. *\"Well we need chaos and order to reach balance eventually, so having a bit around me is not that bad.\"* Miu had brushed her hairs back once as she smiled. \n\n*\"I think the honor is yours Moshi-sama. I am familiar with the water but not with their kami.\"* Miu confessed. After all her water spells had mostly relied on the ancestors, not on the kami. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Very true. Everything has its place under Lady Sun's light, after all. Just... Perhaps in moderation,\" She joked, sitting down cross legged on the mat that Miu had prepared for her. \"You honor me by allowing me to be the one to commune with the kami within your own embassy, Kitsu-san. Let us hope they see fit to give us an auspicious answer...\"\n\nKana closed her eyes, and took in a deep breath. \"O, Kami of the waters, those who reside the skies above, beneath the earth below, and those of the river which give life to the city, I beseech thee to grant my guidance to where your waters flow hot and plentiful, that we may bring rejuvenation to the people.\"\n\nA silence of a few moments followed, Kana taking in slow, deliberate breaths. She could feel the slightest tingle in the back of her mind for a moment, and then a sense of place...\n\n\"...Near the northern wall?\" She spoke, seeming almost a bit uncertain of it herself as her eyes opened.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu sparked up when she heard the response. *\"Northern wall huh? Would you like to go there?\"* Miu was beyond excited and it had shown. If it wasn't for Kana the tall being had already sprinted right to it. But for now she still remains cool. But then the lion turned serious for a moment. Warning Kana. \n\n*\"We must not speak about this to others. They seek revenue. I wish for it to help people, not for it to bring me money.\"* Miu stated. She knew Kana had felt the same so smiled as fast as the serious face had entered. Then Miu stood and got ready for the walk to the northern wall. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was almost taken aback by how quickly the Lion was to start moving out already. With even a moment of thought, though, it certainly seemed to be within her character, however. With a bright smile, she got up to her feet, smoothing out her kimono as she did. \"I think if I stay listenign to them, I should be able to pinpoint the location where they're leading me to. Let's, um, hope it isn't in the Leatherworkers' quarter...\"\n\nBefore she could start leading the way, she was stopped in her tracks by Miu's rather serious declaration. \"I... Of course, Kitsu-san. This is a humanitarian venture, not a financial one. Even as a Mantis, I know there is a time and place to be concerned with koku.\" She bowed her head. \"While I wouldn't dishonor our ambassadors, let us wait until a better time before we discuss this beyond ourselves. Of that, we're in agreement.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had smiled. *\"Shall we go look for the spot. The kami hadn't specified where exactly right? It's a friendly scout. Himiko-san is looking for the paperworks. She promised to do so.\"* Miu had bowed down to the Mantis. \n\n*\"She believes in the two of us Moshi-sama.\"* Miu had gestured Kana to follow along so they could seek out their soon to be bathhouse. If they somehow managed to get through and past the imperials. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh! It appears I misunderstood you. I had no idea Kitsu Himiko-sama had already given her approval. In that case, I'll make sure to let Moshi-sama know our plans right away. I've a feeling she'd be happy to agree. Though she might insist on treatments being readily available.\"\n\nChuckling, she started to orient herself in the direction where she had felt the pull of the Kami, pointing to the horizon. \"I did not get an exact location, but I do believe it is close to the river. Perhaps we simply head that way and look at what we encounter?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had nodded to that statement. *\"Aye! Let us move forward.\"* Miu started to walk alongside Kana. She was having a wonderful day like this. *\"Himiko-san agreed a long time ago. She thought it would be a good contribution to this city. There is a lot of well... Mind me for speaking my mind. Negative in this city. It must be balanced out.\"* The lion rubbed the back of her head before smiling a bit. \n\n*\"I am happy you are as determined about this as I am Moshi-sama. Thank you.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Of course I am, Kitsu-san!\" She smiled brightly, heading out from the embassy with Miu in tow. \"It would be a wonderful opportunity to practice compassion and offer aid to those who need it, after all! It's a significant undertaking, to be sure, but whatever the future holds for the city, I'm of the belief that it'll only be a good thing if we have joint venture such as this. Places where we can show where the great clans can place their differences aside for the greater good. As you say, there's much in the city that's negative. It would be nice to start to change it.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had smiled. The golden details on her cheeks curled alongside the wide expression of joy. Soon the look of happiness faded a bit as a frown grew upon her forehead. She was thinking. *\"Although I don't understand politics that well Moshi-sama, I do not think Himiko-san can grant us a permit for the build, can she?\"* The Lion continued to follow the Mantis. Curiously looking around so often as civilians had jumped away from the gigantic beings path. Fearful of her somehow. \n\n*\"If the kami truly guide us to a place they honor, we must perhaps write a letter to Otomo-dono. I hope he can see the potential this has for morale and spirituality.\"* Miu stated. Coming to a stop just behind Kana. Making sure she would not bump into her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Unfortunately, no,\" She replied. \"It might even require some approvals for digging if it were on the embassy grounds, but outside? Once we get Kitsu-sama and Moshi-sama's approval, we will need to appeal to Otomo-dono, as you say. While I do not think it should be too much a concern, given the benefits to all people within the city's walls, I know there's much that must be weighed. Especially with control of the city yet to be decided.\"\n\nKana frowned a bit as she noticed people hopping out of the way of Miu and herself. She knew that her look might be considered somewhat severe by some, and that Miu could cut an imposing figure, but she hardly considered either of them to be particularly fearsome people. At least at the moment. She glanced over to Miu as they arrived near the northern wall, both to turn to face Miu, and make sure she hadn't taken any offence to the heimin.\n\n\"If it please you, I can handle the letter writing! But for now, what do you think of the space?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu's eyes had clearly sparkled. As if she were dreaming of the building standing in front of her already. She had nodded a few times to the words Kana had spoken but almost roared in excitement. *\"It is perfect!\"* She spoke, clapping her hands together. Then she turned to Kana. Bowing down once more, ever so deeply. *\"Thank you Moshi-sama. Thank you for sharing your wisdom and ideas with me so we can reach something grand. Something that will possibly help so many.\"* The Kitsu rose again. The red fiery manes danced around. \n\n*\"As for writing, I do think it is better in your skill, as the Otomo-dono will perhaps consider me a child when it comes to speech.\"* She smirked. Miu knew very well where her skills lied.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana grinned at Miu's enthusiasm upon seeing what would hopefully be a spot for them to break ground. \"It is, isn't it? If we decide to get really ambitious and build upwards, then perhaps we can even get a good view of the lands outside the city? Though I suppose I'm getting ahead of myself there. Let's get this letter in and get everything approved first!\"\n\nShe bowed lowly back to Miu in turn, the bright smile never leaving her face. \"I can certainly handle the letter if you wish! I confess brushwork does not come as naturally to myself as some, but I'll make time to ensure that they get an impeccably written letter with our proposal!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Thank you Moshi-sama! Do tell me. Do you have any understanding on how to create a building like this? Otherwise we should try and find somebody. I know we both have the muscles to help out. Ah! I'm already getting ahead.\"* Miu smiled. Rubbing the back of her head. It was curious how a being like Miu could be so humble sometimes. \n\n*\"I hope the letter will be answered with a yes. I'll pray for it towards the fortunes. Perhaps they'll hear it.\"* Miu stated. Staring at the empty spot that could be theirs soon. One was able to hope and dream. A tiny bit of solitude before they were shattered again. Miu would remain there. \n\n*\"Moshi-sama? I know this is off topic. But I require your wisdom for one more thing. I will soon be traveling to Yomi. Do you think your embassy has books on the spirit realms? Or perhaps you have some knowledge on them? I wish to not endanger myself by simply being oblivious.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah... As much as I would like to say that I do, I know it would only slow us down if I were to claim knowledge and expertise I do not have. The construction of buildings isn't something I'm terribly experienced with, and perhaps while we wait and pray for letters and approval, finding someone like that could be out next goal? That is, if you wouldn't get sick of my company for another such search!\" Kana chuckled. It seemed she had the same habit of modesty as her fellow Shugenja.\n\nKana then tried to hide her look of surprise at the mention of Miu travelling to Yomi, and was only partially successful. It wasn't every day someone said they were heading the Realm of the Ancestors though. \"Oh, I see! Does this mean you'll be returning to Lion lands for a time?\" She asked, remembering that she had read somewhere that a passage existed in their Hall of Ancestors. \n\n\"For myself, I've not been myself, and so could only share what I've learned in my studies. ||Theology 3 || That said, from what I have learned, it sounds as though you'll be going to a most beautiful place indeed. I am certain that one as honorable and good hearted such as yourself has naught to fear! That said, I do still have some of my texts in my office at the embassy. I would be happy to lend them to you if so needed!\" She grinned excitedly.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had sparked up when Kana mentioned getting tired of her company. She almost instantly protested. *\"Please Moshi-sama, I enjoy your company and wisdom. It is a true honor.\"* The lion stated. Watching the people around them. Smiling at them and observing whatever they were doing. Not out of caution, more out of curiosity. \n\nBut when Kana had mentioned returning to lion lands she had shaken her head. *\"No Moshi-sama, I have inherrited the knowledge of a spell known to Kitsu for generations. When well practiced enough, one could open a portal to Yomi on their own. I will attempt this and I understand their dangers, but I feel that I should reach it on my own. Something about a lion's pride.\"* She had chuckled when she admitted she'd be over her head doing so. Yet nothing had been impossible in her eyes. Nothing. But when Kana mentioned texts and knowledge the Kitsu almost jumped with joy.\n\n*\"Would you truly not mind lending me those? If you not mind, I wish to learn more about them but with your perspective on them. I'll make sure I will have the best tea and food in all Rokugan.\"* Miu promised. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana grinned in return. \"The feeling is very much mutual, Kitsu-san. In that case, we have a plan for our next outing, then!\"\n\nHer eyes widened in wonder as she listened to Miu discuss the spell. To be able to open a portal to another realm entirely on one's own? Unbecoming as it was, she found herself even slightly envious of the connection that Miu had with the Kami to be able to wield such a gift. \"Well, it is pride that is well deserved! That you can even attempt such an endeavour is a testament to your faith and dedication, Kitsu-san! If you've come this far, then I've every confidence you will be able to make your journey safely!\" Kana's excitement for Miu was palpable as she spoke, hoping she would find encouragement in her words. ||Advantage: Rousing Presence||\n\n\"Absolutely, it'd be no trouble at all to lend them to you! I will hold you to the promise of tea and food, though!\"\n\n||"
}
] | 175.5 | 5,770 |
232.521739 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "It was warm, sunny, perhaps a tad bit too hot for the small lion ambassador who was fiercely kicking the ball against the walls of the embassy. Not that she'd kick enough for the walls to crumble but she remained cautious to not wake anyone. \n\nThe small lion ambassador had put her wild manes into three braids, two to the front of her head that dangled over her ears, one bigger one on the bag. Ironically she still looked like the unhinged and wild child she was. Barefoot the ambassador had kicked against the ball over and over and over. Not out of boredom, it was some sort of training as the red spots on her feet marked progress, at least in her eyes."
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru's day had so far been rather pleasent. She had spent the mourning between meals reading over letters that had arrived from her Onee-sama and Father and then composing letters to send back in turn. Letters to her elder sister were always easy, the two got on well even if Junko enjoyed teasing her far too much. Letters to her Father always took time to write. It had been a long-time tradition between the pair to exchange letters written in prose. There were times, of course, where she did not have the hours to perfectly compose stanza that reflected her thoughts and answered any questions the aging Ikoma bard might have about her wellbeing, and she would write more succinctly. The prose-letters were an activity she enjoyed though and reading her father's words was always heartening.\n\nHaving spent the better part of the day cramped indoors over ink and paper, Hotaru felt the need to streatch her legs and had decided a walk in the embassy's garden would suit. The closer she got to the gardens however, the louder rang a rythmic thumping sound. Intrigued as to the cause, Hotaru let her ears lead her footsteps. Her eyes widened almost comically once she realised the source of the sound was the young Lion Ambassador herself! \n\nPausing in her step, still some distance away and behind Himiko's field of focus, Hotaru was left struck as she took in the sight of Himiko-sama kicking away with the ball. The young girl was an enigma to Hotaru, who had always been baffeled by her position at the embassy as an Ambassador, given the young woman's youth and this visage only reinforced Himiko's youth in her mind.\n\nAs she watched the woman continue to kick the ball at the wall however, she could not help her thoughts turn to her siblings. Their mother had joked that she'd had enough of them to fill an entire cuju team. The activity had been rather popular with all of her siblings, as rambunctious and energetic as they had all been.\n\nAs she took in the sight, she could not help the shards that stabbed into her heart as images of one of her younger brothers rose unbidden. A frown came to mar her face as she thought of him. Whenever Kenji would sulk or was pissed off, he would steal away one of the households cuju balls and kick it for hours against a wall, much like Himiko-sama was doing now. Though... Given the Ambassador's expression, Hotaru did not think Himiko was sad or angry. \n\nShe wondered though if this was a common occurance for the Kitsu, and if she had just simply missed the other times the woman had been practicing? Playing? With the ball. As her lingering elongated and Hotaru acknowledged that perhaps she should just move on, something within her hesistated. Thoughts of her brother still lingering. She had not touched a cuju ball for some years now... Perhaps.. Perhaps now might be a good time to do so again. In a setting away from home, where the memories could be less painful. \n\nDeciding that she would make herself know, if the young lion had not already noticed her lingering, Hotaru moved forward, making a note to be particularly heavy footed, so that the young Kitsu might hear her approach before she spoke. \"Kitsu-sama, enjoying the day I see.\" There would be the slightest whisper of a smile on Hotaru's face as the Kitsu's attentio moved to her, and Hotaru would make a point to wait to bow lowly until Himiko could witness the act.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had turned to Hotaru. She hadn't noticed the eyes burning. After all she was used to it by her attire and all. It would be special if there was a day without stares. The Kitsu tilted her head as she announced herself. All Himiko did was kick the ball towards Hotaru. \n\n*\"Think fast.\"* The ambassador chanted. A slight grin on her face. Of course she did not want the ball to hit Hotaru, nor had this been a test to see if the lion was good enough to protect her, it was an invite. So Hotaru did not get to bow unless she wanted to get hit. Himiko swiftly bowed down to the much bigger lioness as she stepped backwards. Once more inviting her to join in. It was clear she wanted a moment away from being ambassador. \n\n*\"I am enjoying this day. How is yours Matsu-sama?\"* Himiko asked. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru's eyes comically widened in shock as the ball was kicked her way. Her response was clearly mostly instinctual. A step back and and only slightly awkward, unpractised reach with her right foot to to stop the ball in its tracks before it crashed into her or bounced off to oblivion. In the same movement, Hotaru's right hand moved to aid her balance while her left went to the daisho at her waist. Himiko had probably never seen the woman Matsu bushi unarmed, even within the Embassy's walls. \n\nThe ball having been stopped, Hotaru shook her head and let out a chuckle, mirth clear in her eyes. \"My day has been well Kitsu-sama\" She smiles. Taking the time now, without balls flying, to properly bow to the woman, making a point to do so lower than Himiko had to her. \"Though I must insist you refer to me as -san please. I am only a soldier, and one of no significant rank.\" Her face off as it was, Himiko might pick up on the stress in Hotaru's voice, she was clearly *Very* Uncomfortable with the younger samurai referring to her as sama.\n\n\"Has your own day been well?\" She enquires. She wanted to kick the ball back to the girl, but aware of her daisho at her waist, she knew better than to get involved in such pursuits with them still on her. She had certainly learnt the hard way that it was not a smart decision to make. Also occupying her thoughts was the consideration that she did not want to presume that the kick was an invitation. The Ambassador could have just as easily been testing her reflexes. \n\nIt was probably strange for Himiko to see Hotaru so... Open. At least... Strange in the reagard that the woman was not drunk, as that was likely the only situation when the Matsu bushi was not presenting herself as serious and fierce."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "One could not put off something they dreaded forever. It was for this reason that Kazuko found herself back at the Lion Embassy once more. This time, though, she was not here as a diplomat, or as a warrior. No, instead it was as . . . What exactly?\n\nA playmate? The Lion Ambassador was certainly young enough that the Battle Maiden nearly confused her for a child when they first met, but the youthfulness was not childishness. Even samurai were allowed enthusiasm for their passions. No, she was not here simply to play.\n\nA clandestine meeting? Perhaps. The Utaku was certainly not dressed in a manner to garner attention. Instead the courtly kimono she wore while performing her duties as Ambassador, she was dressed simply in casual Ujik-inspired riding attire. The more defined pant legs and closer fitting garb she hoped would allow her greater freedom of movement to participate in this unfortunate occurrence, but without the furs and leathers of a true Ujik design it would not gather any unwanted attention. Hopefully some intel on how the Lion's \"Friendly talks\" With the Scorpion had turned out would be shared today. Still, that was not why she was here.\n\nA friend? Friendship between the two clans was a difficult subject. Respect was far easier, especially as a soldier. One can admire the qualities that make a good warrior while at the same time be against everything they stand for. Yet here they were, in a time of peace, striving for a similar goal. Kazuko could not help but feel a level of care and concern for the young Lion, much as she held for her own siblings. The Kitsu needed guidance, and while Kazuko felt woefully inadequate to truly help her succeed at her role, it was better for her to provide it than for the Ambassador to get it from—\n\nA Matsu. As the servant leading Kazuko and Fuyuko turned the corner through the lovely gardens, the brutish sight of a quintessential Lion thug stood out as clearly as they had during the War of the Plains. This one was doubly recognizable as the one who had entered the poetry contest. Whether she would recognize Kazuko—who had appeared only briefly during the event and in clothes and makeup befitting her position—remained to be seen.\n\n*Well, a Matsu is as simple to comprehend as their minds are. Not nearly as bad as one of their Ikoma Bards. And at least this one knows more than how to scream angrily.* As the servant moved off, Kazuko would bow respectfully but curtly at the Matsu, then deeper towards the Lion Ambassador, the faintest hunt of a smile passing across her face as she did so.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had nodded. *\"Very well Matsu-san.\"* The younger samurai stood ready to receive the ball. Wishing for Hotaru to kick it back to her. Her child-like nature had shown. After all she had been a child and as stubborn as one she had refused to take away all of her fun in life. *\"Would you mind practicing Cuju with me?\"* She questioned. Standing ready whenever. \n\n*\"My day has been surprisingly well-\"* Then the Unicorn appeared. She looked much less uptight than she would normally do. It made Himiko happy to know that she'd keep her promise. A warm smile grew on her face as she bowed down accordingly. *\"Utaku-sama!\"* Himiko had chanted gleefully. Knowing darn too well Kazuko would rather spend her time on anything else. *\"Welcome to the cuju court.\"* Himiko had calmed herself down a bit. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "A small smile had been creeping onto Hotaru's face in amusement at Himiko's energy. \"I would not mind at all Kitsu-sama. I shall remove my daisho first however, the pitch is no place for swords.\" Hotaru smiled, softly kicking the ball back to the girl and reach both hands down to untie the swords at her waist.\n\nAs she cast her gaze to locate an adequate place for the blades, Hotaru sighted the incoming Unicorn. Whatever smile might have been inching its way onto her face settled back into the Matsu's resting bitch face. She as being polite... In that she was not actively frowning at them. Hotaru remembered their face from the poetry competition, this was the ambassador wasnt it? Damn. She'd have to play nice. \n\nHotaru bowed to Kazuko with a mirrored \"Utaku-sama\" Though it was certianly FAR less enthusiastic than Himiko's. The Matsu's bow was shallower than she might have for any other ambassador in the city, though not by too much, but enough for a discerning eye to notice that she had far from the same enthusiasm as Himiko at their presence in the embassy. \n\nHotaru, seeing the excuse to lay her daisho down on the nearby porch as an adequate reason to react with the Utaku as little as possible, moved do to so, though kept her eye on the interacting Ambassadors as she did so. She would rejoin the pair, standing just off to the side from Himiko."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "How childish the Matsu was. Not unexpected. Kazuko decided to ignore the poorly disguised dislike of her presence. While she walked away to deposit her daisho, Kazuko would take the opportunity to respond to the Ambassador. \"Thank you, Kitsu-san. I am a woman of my word, of course. Cuju it is. And perhaps a chance to catch up on recent matters?\"\n\nWhen Hotaru returned, Kazuko would cast a cool glance at her before signing as Fuyuko translated. \"Matsu-san, I bid you good day. Your poetry was inspired. The woman speaking is Fuyuko-san. She serves as my translator, as I am unable to speak clearly after attempts on my life. Any words conveyed by her have the same weight as mine, as Ambassador appointed under the grace of our Emperor.\"\n\nThe reminder given to the disrespectful woman, her severe countenance lightened slightly. No need to worry about what opinion the Matsu had toward her. \"Now, Kitsu-san, thank you once again for the invitation to join you. I am afraid I am still somewhat unfamiliar with the rules of this game. Would you care to aid me in understanding?\"\n\nTruthfully, Kazuko had done much research on the game to grasp how to ideally not make too big of a fool of herself when this day came. However, she knew well the excitement of explaining to someone else a topic which one had a passion for. She was loathe to deny Himiko that satisfaction. Besides, there was apparently a thing known as \"House rules\" Which could completely change the theorem of gameplay. Perhaps Himiko had some of those herself.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had received the ball from Hotaru and smiled at her. But like a child Himiko's eyes had sparkled when Kazuko asked to elaborate the rules. Kazuko had been right about the enthusiasm this girl held for a game like this. Little had Kazuko known that this was one of the last things she had truly remembered of her childhood and life at the lion before joining the phoenix and their ways. The younger lion had glanced over to Hotaru as she nodded that it had been okay the unicorn ambassador was here. \n\n*\"Well. I am certain you have some knowledge of Cuju Utaku-sama.\"* Himiko knew. Of course she did because she'd do the exact same thing. *\"But the rules of cuju are simple.\"* The girl grabbed a small stick and started to scribble in the sandlike ground. She drew a net, just like the one behind her. *\"You must kick through the hole in the net before you can score into the half moons.\"* She then drew the moons. These were not engraved into the walls but simply drawn on with chalk. \n\n*\"You must use no hands. Only your feet. You may play rough but do keep in mind I am almost half your length.\"* Himiko had warned. \n\n*\"You score a point when the ball goes through the net right into the goal. Simple as that!\"* Himiko smiled and clapped her hands together. \n\n*\"Anything to add Matsu-san?\"* She turned to the lion behind her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru would nod in acknowledgment at the introduction of the translator. The admonishment behind the Unicorn's translated word did not go over her head. Hotaru heard it, and on a level would even agree that showing the spite she held for the Unicorn was perhaps an unwise thing. Hotaru's hostility towards the clan was a deep-set thing however, she disliked the prospect that clear hostility might result in Himiko dismissing her. Leaving the young Ambassador alone with the enemy was a worse fate in her mind, than having to endure their company. Hotaru would do her best to school her expression, it was hard for her to remove the sense of displeasure she had at the Unicorn's presence though.\n\nAt Himiko's question, Hotaru shook her head. The younger woman had explained the game rather well. \"No Kitsu-sama, yours is a good summary of the rules. I would, perhaps, clarify that the ball is allowed to make chest contact without penalty.\" SHe nodded.\n\n||if thats incorrect apologies. But several spots i found info on for the sport said chest was fine too. XD"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Good, no surprise rules. That should make things moderately easier. Kazuko nodded thanks at Hotaru's addition. A playful quirk of her eyebrow signaled her response to Himiko's *Warning*. \"You may be half my length, Kitsu-san, yet somehow I feel *I* Will be the one in danger here.\"\n\nSurveying the field, she thought for a moment as to her next move. There were only three players on the field; an unfair advantage for whoever the third ended up with. Unless . . . . \"It seems we have an odd number of players. If no one objects, Fuyuko-san can—can also play, to even the teams.\"\n\nThe look of surprise, followed by defeat, and the brief hitch of the translator's words told all. She should never have told the Ambassador that she played this game with her children. \"If you are agreeable of course, Kitsu-san, and since this is your court, I think it only fair that you select the teams.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had sparked up when she saw Fuyuko join in. But she read the room. She read the room all too well and knowing that teaming up with Hotaru would result in a Lion vs. Unicorn. So would it give Hotaru the opportunity to actually damage the Unicorn ambassador whether that had been purposely or not. Her teaming up with Kazuko would result in ambassadors versus. Also something she did not want. Darn. Although she had wished for Hotaru to have a good day she could not risk accidental injuries in a friendly game. Keep your friends close but your enemies closer. \n\n*\"Fuyuko-san, would you mind teaming up with me?\"* Himiko stated clearly. Still being polite as ever. *\"I think Utaku-sama would be alright if I promised not to tackle her.\"* She had joked. Bowing down to Fuyuko to invite her into her team. Although she was kind of suspicious that Fuyuko had the chance of letting her superior win, she would be beyond excited. People that actually wanted to play Cuju with her. Although wanted was a broad term in this scenario. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Today was going to have to end with sake. And a good deal of it. \n\nSome part of her wondered what offense she had given the Kami for the day's outcome. Hotaru was a fair sportswoman, being anything less would be dishonorable, and she had been prepared to referee the pair of Ambassadors, not having considered that the Utaku's aid might join. Refereeing would have been more preferable. Still... Hotaru took a measured breath in through her nose as she looked to her... TEMPORARY teammate, the Unicorn Ambassador. At least now, she knew she wouldn't be the cause of a physical altercation with the other woman. That was something. The thought of having to work with the woman though? To be forced to defer to her judgement? (Hotaru had no allusions that she could do otherwise in the situation) That tasted bitter on her tongue. \n\nHotaru did her best to swallow her pride? Digust? Distrust?, there were too many ugly emotions to name them all, and levelly asked the Ambassador. \"Do you have a preference for offense or defense Utaku-sama?\""
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "It was not ideal. Two small opponents against two much stronger seemed at the outset to favor the Utaku and Matsu. However, the two she would be playing against had experience on their side. In addition, she hoped the Matsu would not take out her carefully bottled aggression against Fuyuko. It would technically be a loophole to assault her heimin translator in the Ambassador's place, and while the response from Kazuko would be swift, she could not afford to have her hurt—for her own sake of course, but more importantly for the translator's children.\n\nStill, Himiko had made the decision, so she trusted all would work out. If she could not place trust in her fellow Ambassadors, how could she make progress in this city. Looking to the Matsu, she tilted her head slightly. \"This is your field, your Embassy, your rules. I will follow your lead, Matsu-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko was the first one to kick off the ball. It was simple. They were tall, strong and fast. But she knew Hotaru wouldn't dare strike Fuyuko. Neither would Kazuko because who the hell would speak for her. Himiko was well aware Fuyuko hadn't liked her or the lion that much but a bit of synergy in the fact that she just wanted to have fun seemed to resonate. The two of them started an attack. Kicking the ball high. As their shorter legs gave them wiggle room in agility and swift dodges. Himiko did all of this unannounced. Not waiting for the both of her opponents to get over their grudges. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Himiko's action didnt allow Hotaru the time to continue conversing. The Matsu just frowned and grunted. \"Then let us get the ball Kazuko-sama\" \n\nHotaru shot into a sprint, moving to impose herself between Himiko and Fuyuko. She followed close to the Unicorn aid though was keeping a good half meter between their bodies. Hotaru was hesitant directly engaging either of them, so imposing herself between them, where she could intercept passes of the ball. She had always preferred defence in cuju. There was much frustration to be gained by completely shutting down being able to pass to another player and this was the role Hotaru imposed for herself while the shorter pair held the ball."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Damn it all, no time to plan. The Lion Ambassador immediately charged into the fray, Fuyuko instantly in step with her. The teamwork between the two who hardly knew each other was remarkable. That had to be disrupted. While Hotaru worked to disrupt defensively, Kazuko was on the offense. Yet she did not move forward immediately, instead waiting and watching the patterns of play between her opponents as they progressed forward. *There. Now.*\n\nCharging forward Kazuko roughly shoulder checked Fuyuko right as she went to kick back to Himiko. She may not know how to play this game well, but she knew how to leverage her strength. The ball went off course from its intended destination where Himiko would be. Hopefully this would give Hotaru the chance to surge ahead and take control of the ball.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Never one to not seize opportunity, Hotaru acted as expected when the ball moved off course, her longer legs covering the distance between herself and the ball faster than Himiko's own. \n\nThe time since her feet had last met a ball showed however. It was clear Hotaru was familiar with the game, but instincts unpracticed would always remain inferior to those, like Himiko, who still regularly played the sport. \n\nHotaru had control of the ball though. She took a moment to cast her gaze at the field. Himiko was no doubt closing in. Hotaru ran with the ball, moving perpindicular to the Lion to keep distance between them and to avoid a front-on tackle. Hotaru was intend on looping back to center field before closing towards the goals, keeping an eye on Himiko's proximity so she could kick the ball off to Kazuko before the younger woman could catch up with her."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "But ironically Himiko did not chase Hotaru. Instead she would help Fuyuko on her feet again. Giving her a friendly smile before getting back into the game. A sudden sprint from the short legged ambassador. Keeping an eye on Himiko was indeed a sane thing to do. But one whistle away and- Ilu showed up. Right there to body slam the tall Matsu. Giving Himiko time and space to intercept the ball. So she did. She would only chuckle out loud like a full on child. She had never cheated as she had never stated that Ilu was out of the game. \n\nWhere would she be without Ilu? Far gone. But no time to think about that. The lion suddenly started to charge right at Kazuko with the ball. Hoping Fuyuko would follow. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "*Oh, so* That's *How we're playing.* The dog was invited to join and now it was three vs. Two. No matter, if Himiko was going to play like this, then so would she. Counting on Hotaru to guard Fuyuko and prevent a pass to her, Kazuko met the advancing Lion Ambassador and swept her leg in an arc, seeming as if she was trying to intercept the ball.\n\nOnly at the last moment, she extended her leg farther forward, beyond the ball and between the Ambassador's legs. What seemed an attempt to secure the ball was actually a sweep designed to trip the Kitsu, ideally sending her to the ground while Kazuko used the momentum to make a break toward the goal.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Yet how sucesfully Kazuko had been at sweeping her away feet right underneath her body. Himiko had nothing but determination. Therefore the two small hands had grasped onto her leg before stumbling down. Not that the weight of the child had done anything to take Kazuko down with her. It at least would cause stall time. That and it would break the fall of the now feral looking ambassador. The grin on her face was like one Kazuko had shown in the unicorn embassy when her masterplan fell right into the correct pieces. This had granted the tiny ambassador to get on her feet swifter than expected whilst getting boosted by the sprint Kazuko made. A chuckle even sounded. It represented how unconventional himiko was. Yet it had shown her effectiveness in all ways. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Dog had not be on the agenda, Hotaru thought as Ilu's large form barrelled into her, knocking her to the ground with an audible 'oof'. It took precious seconds for Hotaru to scramble herself back onto her feet, within which Himiko had stolen the ball and Kazuko had attemted to get it back.\n\nTaking breath back into her lungs, Hotaru began to run after where the ball had wandered while Kazuko and Himiko were entangled, Ilu, probably thinking it was now part of a game of chase, following hot on her heels."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The Battle Maiden half ran, half dragged herself forward until Himiko dislodged herself from her leg. She would not stop to disentangle, that was the little Lion's problem if she picked up some bumps and bruises along the way. When Himiko found herself back on her feet again, Kazuko turned to face her, blocking her path towards where Hotaru was currently headed. If the Ambassador made a break for it, the Unicorn would not hesitate to tackle the girl.\n\nFuyuko moved to intercept the ball, but when the Matsu began to close in too she kept a slight distance, never closing in for an attempt to steal the ball away from her. It would become evident the woman was clearly unwilling to engage in any offensive movements against Hotaru. Invited to play or not, she was still a heimin, and knew far better than to willingly lay a hand on any member of the nobility unless her lady's life was at stake.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Ha! The path was clear! At least... Provided she outran the dog. Seeing Fuyuko's hesitancy and Kazuko clearly blocking Himiko, Hotaru pushed herself into a sprint, kicking the ball out ahead of her as she mooved, zeroing in on the goal distance. \n\nIlu was hot on her heels, but Hotaru refused to let the pup catch her, making a few sudden sideways movements and turns to try and throw the pup's momentum off. Moving as fast as she was any hint the Fuyuko might try to interceed was met with a look that promised the Matsu's body wasnt going to stop if the slighter woman moved infront of her. Hotaru was going for the goals and would kick, hoping to the kami that damned Ilu wouldnt pounce on the ball before it went through the goals."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "And Ilu had not. They scored. Himiko had looked at Fuyuko and held up her shoulders like it had not mattered, giving her a reassuring smile. Himiko seemed not mad but neither to cheer for them. But something about the cooperation between the two would perhaps in the future grand more perspective, positive perspective. So on the inside Himiko had been celebrating. The lion ambassador took time to dust herself off. The shrine maiden robe had been completely covered in dirt and the child had looked like a true child. One that was celebrating the early part of life before it was entangled with war, honor, duty and politics. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "*They . . . Scored?*\n\nKazuko couldn't believe it. Hotaru was unobstructed, the dog stayed back. Everything worked as planned, the two finding a surprising teamwork to achieve their victory. And Himiko . . . \n\nAs a child, Kazuko loved games. Shagai, horse race, the fun little competitions between her and her siblings. Before long though, games became strategies and tactics, sports became drilling, competition became rivalry. It was a pitiable state samurai found themselves in, so bound by duty that *Fun* Was anathema. Satisfaction, thrill, contentment, all were complexly empty emotions to be sought for over simple joy.\n\nThe Lion now dusting herself off, watching the events unfold, wasn't an Ambassador for a few brief moments. She was a girl, happy and free, unbound by the weight of the responsibilities thrust upon her. Had Kazuko a heart it would have pained her so, to know that *This* Was the soul of the woman who was her peer, to understand what the world of Rokugan would one day exact from her, rip away in the name of \"Tradition.\"\n\nOf course, she didn't have a heart, Kazuko told herself. Himiko needed to learn the world would not abide by her childlike ways. Yet, when she turned to see how her fellow Ambassador was faring, a smile—unbidden, genuine and warm but with such sadness in her eyes contrasting it all—filled her features briefly.\n\nIt dissipated, the moment ended, and the Battle Maiden returned to herself. This game was intolerable. \"Well played Matsu-san. Kitsu-san, to what score will we be playing to? Or perhaps you are willing to concede our victory?\"\n\nThere was a hint of a friendly challenge in her voice. Truly it was an intolerable game. But maybe she could humor Himiko for a couple more rounds.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "A grand smirk grew upon the Ambassador's face. A cheeky one. *\"Bold of you to assume I would concede without a true battle Utaku-sama.\"* She would whistle for Ilu who had appeared right in front of her within mere seconds. Almost like it teleported. Himiko would check the dog for pains, after all she took down the Matsu. Ilu seemed to care little and just enjoyed the attention from her owner. Wagging her tail in joy. Himiko would smile and check on Fuyuko as well. *\"Fuyuko-san, are you alright? If you no longer wish to play I could add Ilu to my team. \"* \n\nHimiko had never implied she didn't wish to play with Fuyuko, after all she chose the poor woman to join her. She simply wished to cut her some slack as she understood how much she would be risking. That and much like she had displayed at hunting, Himiko and Ilu were a team beyond comprehension. The young girl was still brushing off the dirt but decided it was no longer to be fading. She was simply covered in dust, looking like the unhinged child she was. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Fuyuko looked at Kazuko, to see what her lady's instructions were. Kazuko simply caught her gaze and nodded, signing something to the woman. The little heimin's eyes hardened, and she stood straighter. \"No, I think Fuyuko has been far too passive this first round, and she will remain. As long as there is not complaints, she will not be so easily beaten this time.\"\n\nThe Ambassador motioned to her teammate. \"What say you, Matsu-san? Two verses three hardly seems fair. For them, that is.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru had retrieved the ball and stood with it by her feet now, one foot resting on the thing. It was strange, she thought, seeing the girl as she was.. Just a girl. \n\nThe woman didnt look much older than her sisters Michiru and Rei and in that way, the three were similar. It was strange though.. To see such exuberance in one of her age. At heart, Hotaru surmised, Himiko seemed a child. Wholly innocent in a manner that her two younger sisters were not. She wondered at the difference, if it were the exposure to war, the loss of their mother, the loss of their brothers over the years. Maybe one day she might feel bold enough to ask.\n\nAt the Unicorn Ambassadors words, Hotaru had hoped Himiko would concede to the single point. Something in her spirit was disquieted but the strange cooperative she was forced into. It left her uncomfortable. Tense. She now much regretted having paused and approached the young woman. Hotaru could not tell her no though. Both because she did not like the idea of leaving the woman, even with Ilu present, because the was the clan's ambassador and refusal sounded most unwise without a proper reason and, because that grin on her face and innocent wash of youth reminded her of another face that could no longer take joy in such acts of the living. \n\nIt was that grin that had her grit her teeth at spending longer working *Cooperatively* With the Unicorn. It was, perhaps though, her friend Katsuhiro's words that had her swallow her indignation at the Unicorn's familiarity with her as she did her best to spit out a polite reply that didnt leave her completely wanting to vomit in protest at the words. \n\n\"If Kitsu-sama wants to continue then I have no issue with it.\"\n\nHotaru's gaze did wander to the fragile aid of Kazuko's though. \"You though, I'm not about to bite off your hand if you touch me. Play properly or dont play at all.\" That was probably the kindest way Hotaru was going to inform Fuyuko that she wasnt going to bite the woman's head of."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Fuyuko nodded, a strange look having come over her after the silent exchange between her and Kazuko. Her hands relaxed, her posture shifted. Would it have happened with any samurai one might assume she were preparing a fighting stance, though not one familiar to the Lion.\n\nKazuko nodded, then turned once more to the Ambassador. \"We are ready when you are, Kitsu-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "And Himiko was ready. Before the Unicorn Ambassador and her Yojimbo even readied the girl stood in the middle. Her foot resting on the ball. Ilu on the sidelines, cautious for when she was called into the field again. The bare feet were dirtier than her hair and clothing somehow. She was a child. Or at least she displayed herself as one. If only one could imagine the potential she had. *\"Ready?\"* \n\nHimiko had however waited until positions were taken again. Not that she'd let them talk or communicate about any form of tactic they could hold. Kicking the ball towards Fuyuko as the small Kitsu took a sprint forwards. She somehow, for the length of her legs, was incredibly fast. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru nodded a ready and then they were off. \n\nHotaru rushed headfirst towards Fuyuko, leaving Kazuko to cover Himiko. The shift she had seen in the heimin had interested her greatly and now she wanted to test the confidence the smaller woman seemed to hold. \n\nSticking her leg out, Hotaru went for a tackle, not afraid of a few limbs bumping into the other woman as she would wrestle for control of the ball."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Fuyuko, running with surprising speed, took the tackle hard, seeming to double over as she slid off behind and to the right of the Matsu. However, as the peasant crashed into the ground a spear-hand strike darted into the back of the Lion warrior's right thigh.\n\nThe first instinct was that such a strike should have hurt. It did not. Instead, a gradual numbness began to spread down Hotaru's lower leg and foot. Gingerly collecting herself back up from being sprawled on the ground while wiping a bit of blood off her cut lip, the little peasant woman sunk down into a near predatory crouch, drawing herself back as if a spring being compressed. Her eyes unwaveringly tracked the Lioness.\n\nSeeing the Matsu gain Fuyuko's full attention, but lose control of the ball, Kazuko took the opportunity to make a break for it, hoping to gain control before Himiko summoned Ilu and made it a two against one. At least so it seemed. In fact, Kazuko was hoping for the dog to be sent at her. Ilu was not as large as a Unicorn Warhorse, and Kazuko was no skilled stable master, but she had some experience in facing down wild animals.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had glanced over just for a split second towards Fuyuko, hearing the crash. She'd need Miu to heal the poor lady later on. Perhaps she should learn some healing from Miu. The golden and blue eye suddenly turned attention to the new challenger approaching, Utaku-sama. A grand grin grew on the Lion cub's face. A loud whistle echoed. One that had not differed from the one before. \n\nThe huge dog came charging at Kazuko. Her tongue dangling from the side of her mouth. Even the dog seemed off duty and enjoy this game just as much as Himiko had done. But before the beast had braced for impact, it had changed direction with one whistle. No longer going for Kazuko, but instead Ilu went deep towards their goal. \n\nHimiko was smiling and panting. Charging her shot for a brief moment as it clearly was aimed for Ilu. The moment the young girl braced for impact with the ball. It changed directions towards Fuyuko with a spin. \n\nHimiko went running again. Making sure to shove Kazuko a bit in an attempt to get her off balance. This was not the tactical play of the child and she was aware. This was simply challenging her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Now there were three on the field again. Unfortunately the dog did not charge at Kazuko as she had hoped. Instead, Ilu went deep for the goal. Understanding the plan, she kept her attention on the Ambassador, waiting for her kick to the dog. Only it never came, Himiko instead giving the hall over to Fuyuko.\n\nToo late the taisa saw the change in play, and as she went to intercept it she was in turn intercepted by the Lion Ambassador. A shove, but Kazuko was not going to allow her to get past. Reaching out as the Kitsu ran past, she latched onto the girl, lifted her up off the ground, turned, and set her back down behind her.\n\nMeanwhile, Fuyuko darted forward to gain control of the ball. Running full speed—again remarkably fast for her size, she carefully began to line up a shot as the Matsu came back around. With the Lion's right leg in a state of uncooperative numbness, she planted a powerful kick to shunt the ball between Hotaru's legs and past it to the dog beyond.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Hey!\"* Himiko would chant as she felt the floor underneath vanish. Her legs would wiggle frantically as if she had still been running. But instead of whistling for Ilu to save her, she'd whistle for the charge towards the goal. Soon the ground came back to her and she started to run like a madman. Himiko had not before shown this much speed with the little legs she owed. But she did not need to be there as Ilu was agile enough to bump the Cuju ball with her head, right into the goal. \n\nA happy squeak came from both the dog and her owner. Himiko would sprint to her dog only for her dog to tackle her hard. Real hard. Himiko would release a laugh of true joy. Together with some tears. Not sure if those came from the impact or the joy. The young Kitsu was now on the ground. Remaining there for a moment before the wild haired being sat up, and no that would not be ilu. Ilu was doing her round of joy. Approaching everyone for pets and a bow. Silly dog. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru's eyes widened a bit in shock at the numbing of her leg. Looking back down at the heimin though, had a large grin sweeping up her face, her eyes alight with a gleam that always shone when her blood got pumping. The Matsu could hate the Unicorn all she wanted but it was a different matter when it came to their heimin attendants. It was the mandate of heaven after all, that the samurai class should rule and protect the peasantry. This view left Hotaru caring little for borderlines when it came to common folk. This one, she decided, she liked, despite her master's mon. Hotaru would step back and let the slighter woman stand and run off, letting her know there was no foul blood between them for the act. She shook out her leg to try rid herself of the growing numbing as she cast her gaze back to the fray.\n\nSeeing Ilu run into the fray, Hotaru gave a few jogging steps. Things felt weird, and she certainly wasnt about the completely trust the limb but she would manage. She did her best to make a sprint for the goals, her longer legs giving her the advantage to close the distance and interpose herself between the ball and goals, but her leg, still grossly numb, felt awkward and she didnt have the same awareness of the limb to properly manauver it. The ball sailed between her legs to wards ilu behind her.\n\nA soft smile would briefly light Hotaru's eyes at Himiko's reaction to the goal. Hotaru made sure to school the expression quickly though, in the hopes it would not go noticed. As ilu approached her for her congratulatory pets, Hotaru indulged the large dog, petting him on his head as she cast her gaze to Fukuyo nearby her. \n\n\"How long will my leg be numb?\" She simply inquired. Her tone was more amused than anything. No hint of the anger that the woman might have picked up on towards her master."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Not for much longer, Matsu-san. It was a light blow.\" The heimin woman returned to form, eyes cast downward, hands clasped before her except to occasionally wipe the light trickle of blood from her mouth. When the dog came by she would reach out and gently scratch under its chin before sending Ilu on their way. \"You are a gracious host and this one would never give offense by causing long-lasting damage.\"\n\nWhile perfectly respectful, the faint hint was there. Fuyuko *Could* Cause long-lasting damage if she put her mind to it.\n\nIlu knew they would not get pets from the Ambassador unless they forced the issue. So, they approached from behind and nuzzled their head under Kazuko's lowered arm. The Unicorn would look down and gently rub the top of the dog's head. Once more the Lion Ambassador felt comfortable enough to express herself and her age before the assembled group. Had Kazuko been a more canny and uncaring politician there was certainly an avenue to exploit here. None of that even crossed the Battle Maiden's mind.\n\nThe score was tied. No one was about to let that stand. Kazuko rolled her shoulders back, wiped the sweat from her brow, and returned to a ready position. Time to go at this again.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru bellowed out a chuckle. \"You are a good sport, Fuyuku-san! I hope that you did not land too heavily.\" The Heimin had impressed her and definitively joined the very short (single-entry) list of Unicorn associated individuals that had gained Hotaru's respect. \n\nThe sight of blood at the woman's mouth left Hotaru mildly concerned. She hoped it was just a case of a split lip or cheek from the impact and not anything worse, she had been trying not to injure the woman even if she had tackled her. As much as the Matsu didnt care for the Unicorn ambassador and her clan, Hotaru was not so stupid to think harming the slight woman would result in no retaliation. Himiko didnt need to deal with that."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "*And so the game continued. For every point Kazuko and Hotaru scored, Himiko's team would score two. At the end of the day, no amount of physical prowess would compete with understanding of the game or ~~cheating~~ a third teammate. Eventually, the unlikely pair would concede that they had in fact lost, before said defeat became too embarrassing and because they simply knew that other duties would soon call for them.*\n\nTired, sweaty, and sore, Kazuko walked over to the sidelines before sitting rather unceremoniously. The game had certainly been an exercise in endurance. Fuyuko approached, producing a cloth from seemingly nowhere that the Unicorn Ambassador gratefully accepted to wipe the sweat from her brow. \"A well played match, Kitsu-san. Perhaps the soundness of your victory proved the cuju court is not for me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko would bow down to the two of them. The red colored face showed how much she had been exhausting herself, running around probably much more than Ilu would on a daily base. Her hair wilder yet somehow more natural than it had ever been. Yet somehow she had not shown any form of exhaust other than that red face. No wobbly legs, no sweat, only the dirt. She would make sure the attendants would come in with some cool water for them to drink. She would then smile brightly. *\"Thank you for actually joining me in Cuju Utaku-sama.\"* Himiko clearly knew that Kazuko had looked up against this very moment, yet she had decided to join. She after all even made Fuyuko join. Poor Fuyuko. \n\nShe would bow down to Hotaru. *\"You were a great opponent Matsu-san.\"* She stated. Then a bow to Fuyuko would follow. *\"As for you Fuyuko-san, you are an honorable teammate. Thank you for playing with me.\"* Soon dumplings would follow after the water. Himiko had planned this out from the moment the Unicorn Ambassador had set foot in the embassy. Making sure everything was going to be perfect.\n\nShe would dust off her clothing and stared at it for a moment, she smirked. This would and could be one of the last times they had seen her this way. After all things were changing and she was forced to change, or drown for that matter. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"It was a good match Kitsu-sama. Even if the inclusion of Ilu was most certainly cheating.\" Hotaru replied as she bowed back in turn, humor in her tone. She had enjoyed herself, enough that when she next gathered with her siblings she was sure to wrestle them into a match with their old ball. The thing had to be somewhere in their family home."
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Of course, Kitsu-san. It was an enlightening experience.\" Kazuko prayed this would not become a regular occurrence, though she would never say such a thing aloud. Fuyuko would bow deeply at the Ambassador but remain silent. While serving as the Ambassador's translator she had no voice of her own. Both gladly accepted the water, and when the dumplings arrived, would help themselves—Fuyuko waiting until the others had their fair share, of course.\n\nWhile she agreed that the inclusion of Ilu made the game less fair, she was of half a mind to quote *Leadsrship* To the Matsu when it came to honor on the battlefield. However, she was not here to stoke flames, and thus decided against it. Instead, she nodded politely at Hotaru. \"Thank you for participating, Matsu-san.\"\n\nKazuko was content to stay and relax for a while longer, closing her eyes and taking another drink of the cold, refreshing water. However, Fuyuko moved silently toward her lady and whispered something into her ear. The Battle Maiden's eyes shot open, and she hurriedly stood, bowing before first Himiko, then Hotaru. \"Apologies, it seems the day has gotten away from me. Other duties require my attention now, and I must be on my way. I . . . Look forward to our next meeting, Kitsu-san.\"\n\nWith that, as calmly she could remain while also hurrying, she gathered her things and left the Embassy. She was in no state to entertain visitors, a sweaty and disheveled mess returning to the Residence. Hopefully those she was supposed to meet also decided to be late.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru would mostly keep her silence, it was better than speaking and offending and truely? That was probably the best thing she could do. \n\nShe would bow to Kazuko though as the woman moved to leave a simple, \"Utaku-sama\" In farewell. \n\nA tension Hotaru hadnt quite realised she'd been carrying left her as the Unicorn Ambassador left sight, it was something that would probably not go unnoticed by Himiko. She would wait, patiently rehydrating, for Himiko to dismiss her or make her own leave of the area, perhaps absentmindedly petting Ilu if the great hound desired."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Ilu had loved pets. Therefore she had followed the Matsu. Bowing down to Kazuko, Himiko had watched the Unicorn Ambassador leave. Bittersweet somehow. She had enjoyed this game of Cuju enough. But with Kazuko's mention of looking forward to the next meeting, she would have disagreed. Once more the burden of the Ambassador had fallen right onto her shoulders. *\"Until we meet again Utaku-sama, Fuyuko-san.\"* \n\n*\"Matsu-san. Truly thank you for playing with me. I might have let my childlike nature slip a few times.\"* She would dust off her clothing as she observed her looks. Shaking her head at her own presence. *\"Please do not tell Akodo-san. He might laugh at me.\"* It was a clear statement, light enough to be a joke, heavy enough that it held some truth. But she'd chuckle at it. *\"Go rest up if you desire.\"* Himiko would grasp the Cuju ball and vanish into the Embassy. Returning to her duty. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"You shall have my silence and if you ever desire to play again I would be amenable. It is almost like I am home with my siblings.\" The Matsu stated, allowing a soft smile to form on her face. \"Enjoy the rest of your day Kitsu-sama.\" Hotaru bowed as the Kitsu was due, before making her own way about the embassy, pondering how she should spend the rest of her day."
}
] | 194 | 10,696 |
272.625 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "*And in front of my very eyes, Lady Sun reached the apex of her cycle, turning the lake in a mirror of her radiant image-*\n\nMiho frowned, and scratched away also this passage. She enjoyed writing: it was one of the few hobbies that allowed her to better herself and still have fun in the process, but Heavens, was it frustrating sometimes. She was an avid enjoyer of travel diaries, a form of narration that weaved prose and poetry together as it described a meaningful part of the author s own life, usually a journey from a place to another; however, that didn't mean she was good at writing them. She did quite well when it came to describing locations and interesting steps of her journey, but she always forgot to speak more of her own feelings, arguably the most important part of the story. She tried, tenaciously, but her analytic outlook at the world and the little importance she gave to digging in her soul made it so that she seemed condemned to always be a second class author, even between amateurs. || Void 1 and Can t relax || \n\nAnd right on cue, her injured hand also started to numb. Great. She announced a pause to herself and raised her head to look at the garden around her, leaning back on the bench. She had come here in hope of feeling more attuned to her feelings, but the only result was dragging her brush into a series of verbose descriptions of nature. Better to just cool off for a moment. *Katsuhiro-sama's garden is coming up well... Good. It will also help impress visitors.* She meditated idly, in one of her rare moments of self abstraction. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"Ah, Miho-sama, perfect!\" Came the voice of Kenshin, his own fingers stained a bit with ink which was common after he had spent hours at his work as scribe for the legion. He was dressed more casually today, instead of one of his many fancy kimono he wore to impress guests, it was a simple lion yellow yukata with a light black silk haori over the top. Black to probably hide the ink stains.\n\n\"Miho-sama, you're a woman\" He stated the words as if he was laying out facts to be presented in a case of inquiry, confirming that they all acknowledge the premise, \"I've been trying to take some inspiration and write a new play set here in the *City of Lies.* How would you react if two men you fancied both confessed their love for you in the same day, and then challenged each other to a duel? I asked Hotaru-sama, but she said she would beat the both of them up and that didn't feel very... Relatable for a... Wider range of audience.\"\n\n|| Sorry that took so long"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She flinched, just a little. She hadn't let her guard down, she rarely ever did, but the Bard always seemed to speak at a slightly higher volume than all of the Lions in here. She didn't need to wonder why he was here; this was a scene that had already happened, several times. Though they didn't exactly have the same tastes, she and Kenshin were both devotees of the brush, and it sometimes happened that he went to her for advice. She didn't search for it, but she didn't mind either; it was one of the few topics she genuinely liked to talk about.\n\nHer brow raised slightly at the start of his sentence- was being a woman her only qualification in this? - but her expression smoothed as he went on. The pause she made was not to collect her thoughts, but rather to find a them to express her opinion sincerely without offending the Bard. \n\"While I personally don't agree with Matsu-dono's method, it has some reason to it. Even if moved by passion, such kind of behaviour is unacceptable; if they were truly serious about their love, they should have went to my lord and to my family first, or at least try to contact me in private instead of putting up such a ridicule show. Furthermore, I would consider their duel to be pointless- is disrespectful to invoke the Heavens' judgement over such petty matters, and it completely glosses over the fact that It does not keep count of my personal choice. So, overall, I'd turn them both down and leave their punishments to their superiors.\"\n\nShe said the entire piece without changing her tone of voice. She wasn't trying to insult him or his skill, just giving an honest answer to the question. \"But I assume that would also not be relatable to the wider public. So, if I were the average Kabuki character, I assume I would... Plead them to stop. Or commit seppuku out of a broken heart.\" She turned up her nose in a way that expressed her full disdain for that kind of tropes. Kabuki was a noble art, but sometimes she found its cliche plot twists annoying.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin seemed surprised and then forlorn at Miho's response, though her second idea could have a bit of something to it. Still, her feelings in reacting to the situation seemed surprising to her. It did make a sort of logical sense, but most Kabuki plays would probably have no plot if everyone acted logically. Everything was dialed up to 11 in these sorts of plays.\n\n\"Really? But the old stories are full of duels over love and petty matters.\" He wasn't really arguing for it, part of the fun was needling her sense of propriety, though he tried to never push her too far. She was good at what she did, and that was part of why Kenshin came to her over many of the other officers or samurai.\n\n\"Say there were two samurai you found yourself attracted to, and they to you. In pursuit of your attentions, they competed over one another.. How would you... Er... How would a Samurai-ko be flattered by such competitions? Loudly proclaiming love poetry? Feats of strength? Clever and meaningful gifts?\"\n\nHe considered her later words a bit more, perhaps instead of the love triangle there were two houses, both similar in status within the clan, set in the fair city of Otosan Uchi. An ancient grudge between the houses of Matsu and Kakita, where noble blood makes noble hands unclean. It could even end with seppuku, or perhaps both of the lovers die, and it forces the two houses to reconcile.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "\"An old story can be a good one, whole also being a cautionary tale about the follies of passion.\" However, the second question got her thinking for a moment. Honestly, she could hardly see herself in such a messy situation, but for the sake of the argument, she just took that as granted , and considered what she would do. \"I would probably discard entirely feats of strengths or showing off. I am not a tournament prize, to win over through skill and valor. Gifts do sound a bit better, I think... Generally, I would like them to be honest and actually speak with me about it, one on one. True love should not be shouted to the Heavens; it s one of the few things that we do not borrow from our lord or from the Emperor, it s only yours and your partner's.\"\n\nShe was actually surprised by her own words; she never really thought about such sentimental matters all that much. Guess even she was not immune to the Ikoma s works. \"But I do understand that drama requires a more intense scenario. So, I suppose dramatic duels and competition are still fine, but I would like them to stay personal, out of the public's eye. If one was vying for my love in public, I d keep wondering if they re doing it for me or the crowd watching them.\" She didn't even try to make this about the average samurai-ko this time; she was hers, and if Kenshin wanted to speak with an average woman he shouldn't have come to her.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin too seemed taken by Miho's response to his question. A surprisingly intimate answer. He wondered if perhaps he should give this knowledge to Akodo-sama in order to help him find a marriage match for Miho. The thought caused an unbidden curl to his lips at the idea of helping Miho find a partner. In her position, a political marriage was far more likely than a love match, but he also took her as someone who would try to make anything work.\n\n\"Hmm... I like that answer actually, a personal, private duel rather than one arranged before their lord. But let me ask you this... What if instead, your family had arranged a marriage for you, but perhaps simultaniously while you had pursued and found someone you had feelings for. I figure you are likely to defer to the needs of the family over your personal desires, but for drama's sake inflame your emotions. Your lover vs your duty. Do you try to change your family's plan? But perhaps the one they find for you is higher status than the lover you have found for yourself? I'm not even certain how I would respond in such a situation.\"\n\nHis family was not as well off as Miho's in spite of them both being Ikoma. He knew that his marriage would need to be for advantage, and because of that he had to work hard to become someone that had somethign to offer for such a match. His Mother and his sister depended on it.\n\n\"It is always convient in the stories that the secret love ends up being a Daimyo's son is disguise, or the child of the Emperor sneaking off to see the world, but it rarely works out like that in the real world, does it?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Now this was getting difficult. Miho s imagination had to make quite the effort to picture this situation; she could hardly see herself favouring someone s love over her ambition. But then, after accepting that, she was at a loss for words. What would she do in this situation? She doesn't know herself, even harder to give a coherent response to someone else. \"...Obedience to my family always comes first.\" She began slowly, as if setting a fence in which to restrain her argument. \"But I won't deny it would cost me a lot. That said, marriage must not always be the end of love; even while doing my marital duties, I suppose I would continue to see that special someone. I d make sure to not be discovered, of course, and make sure to not humilate my spouse with overtly obvious adultery, but in these conditions, I don't see why not.\" A surprisingly cynical answer by the Ikoma, but she was not born yesterday: she knew this was the modus operandi of a good portion of Rokugani marriages, sometimes even with couples aware of their respective lovers. She had always found clever from whoever designed the traditional wedding vows, to not add a promise of reciprocal love to the oath; you swore to take care of your spouse, honor them, but not to love them. That way, samurai were allowed to pursue their passions while still doing honor to their family. She was almost sure even her parents had this sort of deal going on, with the mysterious absences from her mother that were never addressed.\n\n\"But that is hardly a realistic scenario. More likely I'd just focus in trying to make my marriage work.\" She added, quite curtly. Speaking of such personal matters was starting to embarass her a bit, but for some reasons she didn't shut down Kenshin yet.\n\n\"But I can see that this solution would be a bit too mild for Kabuki. Then, to make it more dramatic... The affair could come to the light? That would likely push the husband to challenge the lover to a duel, possibly with disastrous consequences. From there I am sure you can see many roads for a dramatic conclusion- a Kharmic strike, a seppuku from the grieving woman, and so on.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin was surprised at the seemingly thought out answer she gave, it was very much a situation he could see happening in the real world, and if you were to believe the rumors were quite common in the Crane lands, though lords and ladies of station were known to have concubines to help prestigious families ensure the bloodline continues. But then Miho decided to be a bit dramatic in her suggestion.\n\n\"Ooooh, I like that a lot! What a good idea!\" Kenshin rushed to make some notes on his scroll, and then when he was satisfied with what he had written, he washed the nub of his quill and put it away.\n\n\"What about you, you were writing before I interrupted you. Another of your travel journels?\" He said it without judgement, more discussing something that they had discussed previously. He was interested in her thoughts about the places they had traveled, and as a historian for the clan, he was also aware of how valuable such documents were in understanding the past. What she was writing down now would likely be studied by scholars like him in a hundred years.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho blinked. For a moment, she had forgotten about her own work- and she wasn't too pleased to remember, because now she faced again how hard it sucked.\n\n\"Yes. However, I m afraid I might have to drop the quill for today. My efforts have been... Unfruitful, so far.\" Without wasting time in long winded explanations, she just read out the little she had not discarded so far. It was...*Mihoish*, to use a neologism; the form was immaculate, and the references to other famous works numerous, but it was essentially soulless, an analytic description of the world that left no room to self doubt and introspection. It looked as if a sensei had given her the task to write a travel diary as neutrally as possible, to practice her form before adding in the important layer. Same she wasn't really a novice, and this had been an hobby of hers for years.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin held back the impulse to give her advice on her writing style as it had not been asked, and to suggst she needed it would be rude. Miho had been writing these for years, and her challenges were not new ones, but she was also not one to be selling her travel journals for money, as a chui she got a stipend that was orders of magnitude larger than anything he recieved, even with how generous Katsuhiro was to him.\n\n\"The Ikoma historians will love your travel journals. It is often very hard to sort out truth from fiction when we look at the historical record. I am certain that in a few hundred years you will be regarded as one of the great archivists of the Lion clan. Most of the Ikoma who never leave their castles but call themselves historians are not first hand witnesses to the great battles of the Lion clan, and yet you are. You should be proud of your hard work.\"\n\nIt was not the first time he had expressed such sentiment to Miho, and he dobuted it would be the last time either. \"Hopefully you'll remember to talk about the handsome, overworked scribe who tried to keep everyone supplied and fed.\" His eyes danced with mirth at the suggestion that he should get a mention in histories. They were for the general and heroes who fought incredible odds. The people who worked in the background were often overlooked, even if their job was important. Battles were always one because of a brilliant tactical move by a captain of history, and never by the quartermaster who made sure the line's boots weren't giving out, and that everyone was fed and rested.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She huffed. She was used to Kenshin's dramatic compliments, and though they didn't affect her much (yeah, she s amazing, she knows) she didn't mind them either. \"I certainly will; you do make yourself hard to forget.\"\n\n She met Kenshin's eyes, and for a moment, a light of amusement dances in them. \"But this isn't supposed to be an historical record, it's an artistic work. Do you have any advice on how to make it so, or should I change genre?\" She found entertaining how the Ikoma had managed to avoid passing as rude while still obliquely pointing out the problem with her work. Despite their (abyssal) differences, she found Kenshin to be quite funny.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"Hmm...\" Kenshin considered, leaning back in thought as he mulled over her request for feed back on her work of fiction, \"Well, I think as we just discussed, to make those moments of tense drama and fiction,\" He swirled his quill about as is sword fighting an invisible foe with it, \"You need to enflame everyone's emotions, and probably reduce their ability make sound judgement in the heat of the moment.\" He chuckled lightly, they had both known several of such officers who were themselves not works of fiction.\n\n\"Do you remember Gunso Matsu Ishikawa? He was constantly getting in fights, but the reason ended up being because he had gone partially deaf in one ear. Did that knowledge change him or stop him from getting in fights? No, he just continued to mishear people when he was drunk and we had to clean things up after everyone had sobered up. People are always certain of the truth of their own story, even when presented with evidence that they may have a fundamental issue in their understanding. But it's a great way to drive conflict and drama.\"\n\nHe changed to twirl his quill in his hand, \"If you're not going for drama, I have read a few travel journals that are more evocative. They focus on the emotion of the place, the feeling of it, and the connection with the land and with the kami. How does the place make you feel? Why, I even found in the archives a recipe for spicy chicken, but nine tenths of the document was how their grandmother was a unicorn and how the kitchen when she was growing up was filled with spicies, and how when she was little she used to love to cook with her grandmother. Only a tenth of it was the actual recipe.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "His start had caused Miho to raise a eyebrow- now he was making literature sound like something she wouldn't want to read. Yet, she listened, and by the end she got a little more of what he wa talking about.\n\n\"I am indeed going for a contemplative journal, but I think I do not see what you mean. \"Connect to the place\", \"\"Feel its emotions\", are all phrases easier to say than to put in practice. I do not recall feeling any kind of strong feelings during this journey; simply, I recorded what i saw. Or am I supposed to exaggerate my emotions, to give it that drama you emotion.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin gave a coy smile when Miho asked about exaggerating her emotions. \"And now you come to the true dilemma. Though I will say, I think you not having stand feelings during your journey here is a lie. I think you have very strong feelings about the journey here and the place. Do you know what the Crab call this city? Rotting Scorpion Cesspool!\" He chuckled at finally saying that out loud. \"That has a certain emotion to it, wouldn't you say?\"\n\nHe took the tea pot and topped off his cup.\n\n\"When you look at what the Taisa has done here with the garden he is working on and within the white walls of the embassy. Do you feel different here than you do in the Scorpion gardens? What about the Unicorn markets? Or the field where you're training the bonge? I don't think you need to exaggerate your feelings, I think you just need to explore them.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho gave him a look that said \"Language\", but then she started thinking about his advice. Perhaps it s not like she didn't feel anything, but that she hadn't felt anything useful. In her mind, things that didn't serve a purpose were swiftly erased, but perhaps it was good to save a few of those, for her art... *And this city really is a Rotting Cesspool, after all.*\n\nShe bowed her head slightly. \"I think I get what you mean, Ikoma-san. Thank you for your wise advice, I ll try to implement it in my work best i can. I wish good luck with your own creations.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin gave Miho his most dazzling and courtly smiles before bowing deeply to her as only one trained a court can do. His amber eyes dancing with levity and mirth. \"I am glad that I was able to be of service, Ikoma-sama. I value our little talks, and you have given me ample inspiration to write about.\"\n\nHe turned to walk away and give her back her space which he had invaded without fanfare. \"And please, when you are done, I would enjoy a copy to read, of if you wish, I can make a copy for you to send home to your family as well as the Ikoma Libraries.\" If a work did not exist there, then it simply did not exist, as the maxim was well known.\n\n||"
}
] | 271.5 | 4,362 |
212.56 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "She had tried to escape this, find duties to keep her busy, duties which Kazuko seemed of particular import. However, she was unable to hide forever. The small heimin woman passed through the gates of the Lion Embassy once again, only this time she was alone. There was no Unicorn samurai to protect her today, no one to vouch for her words and safety. All she had was a letter of agreement and the word of the Lion: a clan known for their barbarity toward the lower classes.\n\nHer lady may have been of the opinion the Lion could be worked alongside with, but Fuyuko was not so gullible. Asking a Lion to stop hating was a foolish as asking a horse to stop herding. Yet it was Kazuko's decision, and Fuyuko would of course follow her lady's lead, even if it put her life in mortal peril as it did today. Entering the waiting area, she would find the steward, bow, and introduce herself, presenting the documentation of why she was here ( She then sat and waited uncomfortably for wherever she would be sent.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "As Akechi went about his daily tasks in the embassy, his keen eye spotted the newcomer. Unlike the stereotypical image of a stern and unyielding Lion, Akechi was known for his rather unconventional personality. He approached the heimin woman with a friendly smile, his approach more kittenish than that of a fearsome lion.\n\n\"Ah, a new face in our humble embassy,\" His tone surprisingly gentle. \"Welcome, I don't often see new faces here on their own. You must have quite the reason to seek an audience with us, or perhaps you're just drawn to my charming presence.\"\n\nAkechi's laid-back attitude and playful manner might have been unexpected for a Lion samurai, but he had always believed in bridging gaps rather than reinforcing stereotypes. \"I'm Akodo Akechi,\" He continued, extending a hand in a friendly gesture. \"And you are?\"\n\nHis intent was clear: he wanted to put the heimin woman at ease and have a civil conversation, a departure from the typical behavior towards those of lower social status.\n\nAkechi was known among his peers for his unique, more approachable demeanor, a trait that set him apart from the usual Lion stereotypes. She might have even heard the rumors going around about a Lion spending particularly extensive amount a time with the local lassies in the city, specifically in those of tear drop island. But nevertheless, he was genuinely interested in getting to know the woman and her purpose within the embassy, without any intention of intimidation or hostility.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The presence of a Lion samurai sent the woman to the floor in a perfectly formal and precisely proper bow. Fuyuko was Not about to put her life on the line through some sort of social misplay, and had been preparing herself for any such test. \"Honored Akodo-sama, there is no need to worry yourself about one as low as this one. However, as you request, this one is known as Fuyuko, a humble servant of my lady among the Unicorn.\"\n\nPrecisely enough. Name, status, and which clan she served. She would not reveal the identity of who it was she served, lest they attempt to bargain her life and safety for concessions after working out her connection to the Ambassador. Hisa-chan was well-trained, and though it would be at a young age, if anything became of Fuyuko she was certain her daughter was ready to take over her responsibilities. She would remain prostrated before the Lion, not raising her eyes to meet him or moving until given allowance to do so.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "The infamous Akodo Akechi, with his laid-back and approachable demeanor, carefully observed Fuyuko's formal bow. He recognized her caution and respected her adherence to social protocols. After a moment of silent consideration, he spoke, his tone still friendly and accommodating.\n\n\"Fuyuko-san, your humility is commendable,\" He began. \"I understand that you may have specific business here. If you require assistance in meeting with someone in particular or navigating our embassy, please do not hesitate to ask. We Lions may have our reputation, but I assure you, our aim here is not to cause distress. We value open communication.\"\n\nHe waited patiently for her response, ready to provide any assistance she might need while maintaining the uncharacteristic friendliness that was becoming his trademark among the Lion Clan.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The little heimin rose, respectfully keeping her eyes lowered, but speaking with a calm and measured voice. \"Akodo-sama, this one has an arranged meeting with one of your honored clanswomen, a Kitsu Miu-sama. I have spoken with the steward here who has gone to find her. There is no need to trouble yourself with providing one as unimportant as this one with directions a fellow heimin can provide.\"\n\nWhat was with the Lion here? It made little sense. Perhaps the city simply drew those who believed themselves unfitting, not living up to their clans' expectation. Or perhaps it bent and twisted anyone who stayed into its own form. Whatever the case, Fuyuko did not like it one bit, though her years of dedicated and delicate service protected her for displaying more than the standard unease of a peasant toward nobility.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "And if Miu had heard her name rang into her ears, the grand lioness had appeared in the waiting room. She wore a grand smile on her face as she bowed down to Fuyuko. *\"Fuyuko-san! Thank you for coming here.\"* The lion would glance over to Akodo before she once more bowed down. This time a bit deeper. *\"I assume Akodo-sama gave you an appropriate welcome?\"* \n\nShe had questioned. The golden eyes made sure Fuyuko had been at least a tiny bit comfortable. Or at least she thought so. She understood she would probably never be comfortable in a place like this. \n\n*\"Would you like some tea?\"* Miu added another question to her list as she clearly was ready to guide Fuyuko to the appropriate room.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "Akechi nodded with a sense of satisfaction as Kitsu Miu interacted with Fuyuko. He was pleased to see the transition from his initial greeting to Miu's warm and gracious welcome.\n\nIn response to Miu's inquiry, he affirmed, \"Indeed, Kitsu-sama, I ensured she received a proper welcome. She's in good hands now, and I trust that your guidance will make her feel comfortable during her visit.\"\n\nWith that, Akechi stepped back further, fully confident in Miu's ability to assist Fuyuko and provide the necessary hospitality. He continued to observe the situation, silently supporting the atmosphere.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Upon the arrival of the terrifying Lioness, Fuyuko bowed once more. Equally as deep as she had to Akechi, if not more so, she addressed Miu. \"Honorable Kitsu-sama, I assure you Akodo-sama has been most welcoming and helpful.\"\n\nHer hands nervously fidgeted at her sides for a moment before she clasped them behind her back to follow the priestess. No time to show weakness, only carry through with her lady's orders. That was her purpose, her devotion. \"If you would like tea Kitsu-sama, then this one would gladly assist in providing it for you.\"\n\nThe two walked off into one of the other rooms, Fuyuko gently sliding shut the screens behind them to allow for privacy. Her lady's orders were to teach Kitsu-sama *Alone*, and she was not about to show anyone else, samurai or not.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had smiled grandly at Fuyuko as the tea was already in the room. *\"I would like to humbly thank you for taking your time to come here. Therefore I must understand that this is probably not your favorite situation.\"* The Kitsu took a seat and gestured to another place for Fuyuko to sit. \n\n*\"Therefore I could only express my gratitude towards you and Utaku-sama.\"* Miu had once bowed. \n\n*\"I however hope you are doing well?\"* The lion questioned. Making a hundred percent sure that Fuyuko would at least understand that Miu was absolutely not here to harm her in any form. Perhaps that Miu would even protect her. \n\nMiu took the time and effort to pour Fuyuko some tea. *\"It's not as good as the milk tea but I definitely tried.\"* She once more smiled grandly. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"W-whatever do you mean, Kitsu-sama? I live and die to serve the samurai, there is greater reward is there than that.\" Fuyuko lied. She took a seat and considered her options. There were none. Silently she resigned herself to this fate. \"I am well, Kitsu-sama. My youngest seems to have fallen ill, but he is being cared for.\"\n\nWhen Miu moved to poor the tea, Fuyuko would physically interject herself into the process, attempting to wrest away the pot from the Lion shugenja. It was clear she was not about to let this go without a fight. Guest or not, there was an order to be maintained. \"Please, Kitsu-sama, it is not your place to serve. It is mine.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Oh? My apologies.\"* Miu wouldn't start a war over pouring tea. After all she wished Fuyoko to be at least mildly okay with being here and if this was her way of doing so she would not mind. She would set the teapot down on the table and made sure there had been plenty of time and room for Fuyuko to grab it. \n\n*\"I am sorry about your youngest Fuyuko-san. Would you mind if I did a prayer for him tonight at my shrine visit?\"* Miu had offered. She was no doctor and could heal minor injuries but not diseases. The kami could however. Alas that is what Miu had believed. The strength of the water kami had been enough to heal broken bones so why not disease. \n\n*\"Thank you for the tea Fuyuko-san.\"* Miu spoke before taking a less tense position. She wished to make sure the unicorn was okay, causing her tension because she wished to not misstep and take away her chance of learning. \n\n*\"I have one last request before we start. Would you mind asking Utaku-sama what information she wishes to learn about the shugenja and the kami? So I can prepare some books, papers and scrolls when I visit.\"* Miu politely requested. After all she did not receive this for free. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "A routine action Fuyuko performed countless times before, the motions of filling cups brought some sense of stability to the woman. It was just another day of service to a samurai, yes. The nerves calmed somewhat. \"Of course, Kitsu-sama. You are free to pray for whom you wish.\"\n\nThere was a few moments of awkward silence as she wondered what to do next. *Do not take the initiative, let the samurai lead.* And lead she did. \"I will do that upon my return. Iuchi-sama was most pleased with the agreement.\"\n\nThe deal was more than a little unfair, trading a peasant's services for the knowledge of a shugenja. Did Miu realize she was being manipulated? It was not Fuyuko's place to worry about these matters. \"Now, where would you like to start? We can do common phrases, how phonology is translated to signs, particular words you wish to know. I am at your disposal.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Well, I have practised 'Thank you' enough to at least sign it a bit properly.\"* Miu had been humble. After all she was learning something new and well, learning hadn't particularly been her strongest asset. Thank you was something even Kazuko seemed to agree about that she could do it. She had rubbed the back of her head and remained silent for a moment. Something in her screamed to perform well, to help out Kazuko with her speech. After all kindness was shown and will be returned. \n\n*\"What about the basics?\"* Damn she sounded stupid. But she took the opportunity to cover it up. *\"Like hello, how are you, it is an honor to meet you. The standard things. After all I do not think I will be having a complex conversation with Utaku-sama soon.\"* Miu stated. Taking a sip of the steaming hot tea. Putting it down and smiling once more at Fuyuko. \n\n*\"Eventually I wish to learn how to do prayers, not specifically for Utaku-sama of course. But finding new ways to honor the kami will stay with me forever. Maybe I could teach her some if she does them.\"* It was clear Miu was determined to prove herself. Determined to show kindness. She had not thought of any of them as weak, she was simply compassionate. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Fuyuko dutifully listened and watched. It was what she was trained to do from the moment she took on her duties as a servant of the Utaku Daimyo's household. It was a skill she cultivated and refined. Watching body language, social queues to know how to attend to one's needs before even they were aware of it. Miu's requests and actions were . . . Familiar. But not quite evident enough for her to be sure.\n\n\"That is most kind of you, Kitsu-sama. Though I must warn you that the basics and formal prayers are two quite different worlds.\" The heimin's eyebrows furrowed in thought, deciding what to do first. Eventually she nodded her head in determination. \"I think we can begin with a simple conversation, one you would have in passing. Small talk, as it were. But before I begin, perhaps you would be so kind as to answer for me one question, which will help me guide these lessons:\n\n\"Why is it you have such determination to learn the way that my lady speaks?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had visibly tilted her head at this question, like a feline's curiosity being sparked. The golden eyes glanced at Fuyuko as they represented not only her but the many Kitsu before her. A smile grew, one friendlier yet even more genuine than before. As where Kazuko had spoken of not owing a heart, Miu had perhaps owned one too big for her own good. Then Kitsu spoke in a polite mannerism, even though her usual humble self shone through perfectly. *\"I wish not to fill in things for others, but it seems sometimes lonely for Utaku-sama.\"* Miu had not broken eye contact with Fuyoko, it was not too intense, just being polite. After all she had not forgotten to blink. She rubbed the back of her head once more. \n\n*\"I wish to learn, so Utaku-sama and I can meet for tea and have a normal conversation without her having to strain her vocal chords to simply talk. I wish to learn, so you can have the day off to take care of your son, not that I wish to dishonor your position, but spending time with me instead of with your sick son seems like a huge sacrifice you have to make for me in my eyes.\"* Miu had brambled a little but made it very clear she even had compassion for a servant. \n\n*\"Once again a simple assumption. But what is kindness other than to assume what one needs or likes?\"* She would take the time to take a sip of her drink. \n\n*\"I know the relationship between Unicorn and Lion has not always been stable, but I hope you can understand I have no ill intent. I wish to learn so Kazuko can have another person to talk to without having to hurt herself. She has already made enough sacrifices from what I've seen.\"* Miu had stopped talking. *\"I apologize, you asked a simple question and received much more words than necessary.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Fuyuko remained silent for some time after the Lion's explanation, head bowed respectfully so as not to look the samurai in the eyes. Then the little woman would begin to tremble, almost imperceptibly. She brought a hand up to her face, the long sleeves over her downcast eyes.\n\nLoneliness. The Lion had no idea just how empty her lady's life so often was. Yet she was right. \"You are too kind, Kitsu-sama, to think of foreign struggles with such deep compassion. Forgive my imprudence, but you are perhaps the strangest Lion I have ever met. Are you certain your ancestors were not of Shinjo?\"\n\nAfter a few moments, the slightly shaky voice calmed down and the woman would turn her gaze upward at the Lion. The fear that was in her features was but a shadow on comparison to what it was. Talking a deep, steadying breath, she nodded. \"Well, the basics were asked for, so the basics you will get. Shall we begin?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had tilted her head sideways when Fuyoko had spoken about her being a strange lion. She could simply not deny this fact and did not take any offense in her free speech on this at all. *\"I wish to become like Shinjo one day. Strong. Strong so others don't have to be. Strong so the weakest will have a chance to recover and become stronger themselves.\"* Miu smiled with compassion. It explained her kindness. Miu believed that if one was not strong enough, they should be helped and supported. Not dishonored and neglected. Much like she was. \n\nShe would notice the nervous behaviour but seemed at peace with it. Fuyuko had clearly tried her best to relax a bit. Sitting in front of a Lion samurai that had for some reason no intention of war or to speak of honor. Strange she was indeed. \n\n*\"Thank you for listening to me Fuyuko-san. I know I am not one to put my nose into your business. But please, if you or somebody of your family ever needs healing or spiritual guidance. Even though different in clan, I will be here to support. Do not hesitate to ask please.\"* Miu mentioned before she seemed very happy to start learning. \n\n*\"I am ready Fuyuko-san!\"* She spoke. Making sure she was not too loud to startle the poor woman. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Alright then, let us get to it.\" The translator clapped her hands together, doing all she could to disperse what nerves remained. She could do this, for her clan and for her lady, whatever plans she had for this.\n\nSeveral signs were shown, enough to make it through a surface level conversation. A greetings, asking how one was doing, how their family fared, what plans they may have for the day. The observant could start to make out that some of the signs held similarities, though not enough to make connections into new related signs.\n\nAfter showing each sign and explaining its meaning, Fuyuko would ask for the Lion to copy it, continuing to practice it until it was *Just right* Before moving to the next one. It took longer than expected, and Fuyuko made less progress than she wished, but the Lion's determination made up for the lack of nimble-fingers.\n\nFinally, she was satisfied enough to see what the Lion had learned. \"Very well, I do not want to overwhelm you with too many signs to remember in one day. Let us try to have a conversation without speaking. I will start.\"\n\nThe little peasant's hands began to move as the first signs began this mock conversation: *Hello, Lion-sama.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had tried. She had tried very hard. She appeared to not be the brightest but with hard work one could come far. She was amazed by how patient Fuyuko had been with her. \n\nSo after many struggles the Lion seemed nothing but nervous when Fuyoko was testing her newfound skill. Strange that a being like Miu could be nervous. She would then watch Fuyuko's hands move. \n\nIf Fuyuko had looked at Miu she could clearly see the girl translating. Mimicking the words with her mouth without truly speaking. She then sighed. She was not fast at signing but slow and steady did the job here. Miu signed: *Hello, Fuyuko-san.*\n\nYes, Miu had actually asked Fuyuko during their session to teach her her name. Even though it was only briefly discussed she had managed to memorize it through the great amount of words she already learned. Then she smiled. Continuing to sign: *How are you doing?*\n\nShe sat there. Not sure if she did well but hoped she did good enough for her to understand. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Well done, Kitsu-sama!\" The little heimin woman clapped her hands together once in approval of the attempt. Of course, there was always room for improvement. \"Now, if you want to make sure it does not get confused with a different sign, perhaps try to hold your hand like *This* Instead of *This*.\"\n\nIt was a small change and one easily missed between the two gestures, so she did not seem too concerned if Miu did not quite have the dexterity to display the difference just yet. Satisfied, she would continue. *I am well. How are you?*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu seemed filled with joy when the heimin woman approved of her signing. A correction was shown and she repeated it several times over and over and over. Making sure to say the word as well in order to memorize it. The Kitsu had been sunken in thoughts for a moment as she suddenly saw Fuyuko sign. The golden eyes would spark up and squint her eyes. Making sure to read what she said and not simply assume what would fit in the context. \n\nAfter all Fuyuko could tell her she's an idiot and she could not read it if she tried. A few moments passed by. It was perhaps funny to see a tall woman like that practice the signs with tiny movements to herself first. Then she signed to Fuyuko. *I am glad. Thank you.\"* It was clear that Miu tried to say happy but clearly did not know the word for it. This came to the closest translation she could find. Looking at the lady in hopes that she did right. It was clear Miu was taking this very seriously. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "There was a brief puzzled look on Fuyuko's face as she played through in her mind what Miu was attempting to say. A moment of realization when she pieced it together. \"Oh, um, let me think the best way to say that part. Probably like this?\"\n\nShe moved through a sign pattern of *I am happy* But even for the experienced translator it was not as smooth as the rest of her work. *Happy* Was not a sign she had used or seen from her lady for years now, as with most strong positive emotions. After practicing the phrase with a few times, she nodded contently. *It is good to see you, and I wish you well.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu smiled through the pain of learning this. She wished to learn this as this was truly her most common emotion somehow. Strange how Fuyuko had struggled with it for a moment. She was the translator after all. But Miu was wise enough not to doubt the woman's mastery. After all Kazuko trusted her enough to teach. She would nod her head. She had not spoken a word as she made sure to stick to the task of a conversation without speech. *\"I am happy to see you.\"* Miu had adapted swiftly. Although it could be interpreted the other way. Miu clearly just meant that she was glad to see her. *\"May the kami guide you.\"* This was the one sentence she had only slightly butchered. After all she had been practicing this over and over. This was perhaps one of the most important sentences she could grant the world. \n\nThe lion would take duty very seriously. Smiling at Fuyuko as she patiently awaited the judgement of the woman. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Congratulations Kitsu-sama, you did it!\" It was a simple, basic conversation. One given in passing to another without deep substance. It was still more than most would ever be able to communicate to Kazuko. It would be greatly appreciated. \"I think that will conclude our lesson for today. Continue practicing what we learned today, and I will return next week to build upon these.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "The grand smile on the face of the Kitsu had been nothing more than displaying her childlike side. A clear Lion if her looks hadn't screamed it already. She would stand up and bow down to Fujuko. *\"Thank you Fuyuko-san. I truly appreciate your time and effort.\"* With that the two would take their leave. Making sure the woman would be left alone during her leave of the embassy, Miu had shown the way out. Bowing down once more to show her gratitude.\n\n As soon as she saw Fuyuko fade she had walked the other way towards the small hollies. She would hold incense, some small omamori and some offerings. Taking her place at the shrine for the water kami and the fortune of strength. She would perform a ritual of lighting incense and offering the small gifts she had brought. *\"Please hear me. May it rain. May the rain heal. Heal the child of Fuyuko-san. Lend their family my strength, so they don't have to exhaust themselves even more. May I repay their kindness through this gesture. Honorable kami of the water and rain, Honorable Bishamon, thank you for listening.\"* \n\nFrom that moment on, Miu would pray for fortune and strength for Fuyuko and her family. In the hopes that she could repay the kindness of the lady one day. \n\n||"
}
] | 210 | 5,314 |
197.931034 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho sighed, and closed the report. Try as she might, even her legendary concentration couldn't carry her through this batch of documents in a way that met her usual standards. All day, she had been haunted by Rin, her rustic manners, her stupid smile, her naivetè. The short meeting she had entertained with her made her realise that the girl hadn't changed one bit from the one she knew, just a little wider on the shoulders and with a daisho on her hip. She wasn't proud of it, but honestly, she was all too glad of dropping this problem on Hotaru's lap, but this also meant she couldn't control her, and a thousand scenarios crowded in her head: Rin accidentally offending the Ambassador, Rin embarrassing herself in front of the Taisa, Rin utterly failing Hotaru's tests, and many more. Besides her worry for her reputation, she had to admit there was also a shred of emotion in her anxiety: she *Would* Kick the girl out in a heartbeat if she besmirched her reputation, but she also did not really feel like seeing her face when she gave her the news. Maybe she'd cry, too: she always hated when people cried In front of her, she never knew what to say to them besides \"Pull yourself together, it's pathetic.\"\n\nHer attendant knocked on the door, and she didn't even wait to ask what this was about; she had been expecting visits. \"Please, come in, Hotaru-san.\" Miho sat in her office as usual, surrounded by piles of paper like a lord entrenched behind their castle's fortifications. Her office was honestly more luxurious than her bedroom, considering she spent here way more time than in it: a banner of the Lion and one of the Ikoma faced each other on the lateral walls, and on a wooden stand, stood a decorated helmet with a single arrow hole on the front: a battle trophy from some high ranked Unicorn, strategically placed on the side of the room to look like Miho didn't place too much importance on it, and yet still drawing the eyes of the guests.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru walked in looking no worse for ware than the last time Miho had seen her. There was nothing on her face that gave away what opinions she might voice that evening.\n\n\"Miho-san, I hope that I am not interrupting you at a busy time.\" Her tone carried a soft warmth as she moved into the room and bowed. Even on a first-name basis the Matsu still bowed the same depth she did when her relationship with Miho was not so close and, as usual, she would wait for Miho to indicate she could sit."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She raised from her chair, and gave back a bow of the same depth. She strongly believed in etiquette and social norms, but besides her lord Hotaru was honestly one of the few people she felt comfortable with, and she was also doing her a big favour in training Rin. She shouldn't be so ungrateful as to make her feel the difference in status. \"Not at all, Hotaru-san: i was just filling the time where I was waiting for you. Please, sit with me.\" As she did so, she put efficiently on the table cups and bottles of tea, water and plum wine (very light plum wine: she knew Hotaru was a hearty drinker, but sometimes she worried for the health of her arteries). \"So, how did it go?\" She didn't waste time mincing words. They both knew why she was here, and the sooner she got this weight off her chest the sooner she could get back to work. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Simply put, fine. She's decent enough with her sword I have to pay attention and she's eager. She'll do well if I can get her over her aversion to death. If you see her swinging a sword over the next two days though tell me, she'll split her wound before its had enough time to knit together adequately.\" Hotaru informed, graciously accepting a cup of plum wine."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She nodded her head, a bit relieved. Her personal judgement was much worse than \"Fine\", but perhaps these were just her unrealistic standards at work. \"I'll make that clear to her. Despite her rowdyness, she's quite obedient.\"\n\nShe poured herself a cup of tea, savouring it with connoisseur's attitude, and asked again. \"And as for her social skills?\" This was the part she was most worried about. She had a whole summer to hone her battle skills and hopefully dodge death, but she could embarass them all immediately. She had honestly considered locking her up in the embassy until she could teach her some proper etiquette, but her mother had been clear. She was here to be a bushi, a proper bushi, and there had never been a bushi that had to stay put in their home like a child. If she messed up, she messed up. At least she would deal with the problem quickly.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"They're fine. She reminds me of Michiru to be honest, loud and excitable. She is polite enough and her face is so poor she would have to be a Scorpion for any to believe she was not just an awkward girl. I anticipate issues, but she seems a quick student and will no doubt learn from her failings. We will see if she causes any problems over the next two days, I will determine how long to keep her leash based on the chaos.\" Hotaru sipped lightly at her drink as she spoke, taking her time to pause and give Miho a though-out response.\n\n\"If nothing else, I, at least, am not so easy to offend.\""
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "\"And for that, all the enemies of the Lion are thankful.\" She conceded herself a little quip (even if still said with stony face) as she reflected on the issue. She was a Matsu, after all, she should have expected some brashness... But on the other hand, even for a Matsu she was weird. Even if she would never voice them even in her mind, she shared her mother's ideas on Rin's parents: would it have been so hard to curb a bit her enthusiasm? Now she was just a problem for the rest of the clan. *No matter. Summer will forge her in a bushi, as it forged all of us.* \n\n\"I see. Only thing I am worried about is that a Scorpion could take advantage of her, but at least all her silly readings left her with a healthy mistrust for the clan of deceit. But still, I'd make sure she knows as little of the clan's whereabouts as possible, until we can be assured she's trustworthy.\" She smoothed an imaginary crease in her kataginu. \"Now, it's a bit early for that, but can you imagine some career choices for her? For now she's fine being a basic footman, but she'll have to rise in the ranks, eventually. I thought about making her a _kashira,_ but she can hardly manage herself right now, let alone a squadron. Any chances for something on the lines of a yojimbo?\" She could use one, on the battlefield.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"If the Scorpion proves a problem I'll beat them off with a stick.\" Came Hotaru's immediate response to the notion. \"As for the girl's career? Let us see how she handles summer first. If she truly does not adapt to the killing, loath as I am to say it, she can still be of use to the clan having children. If she can adapt though... She is best kept in the field until she can better temper her face. My work is simple but not easy. Iaijustu and, to be frank, just keeping one's face during winter is not a simple thing. Both required a great discipline, discipline your cousin does not currently possess.\" Hotaru was honest, as she could be trusted to be, speaking her mind on the matter."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She shrugs slightly. \"Thought so. I understand this all hangs on how she'll behave in summer: i will also watch her closely. My family demanded me to make her a warrior, and I will, until she becomes one or she proves utterly incapable to continue. All I ask of you is to keep being as honest as usual, and do all that is necessary to make something out of her.\" She bows her head. \"If there is nothing else, I will stop abusing of your time. You can finish the bottle if you wish, I've drunk way too much in these days.\" In reality she had drunk only as much as the average soldier did in a light day, but for her standards, that was borderline debauchery.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Actually.. I was wondering if you had some time. I have some things on my mind I need to talk to *Someone* About who isnt Yasuki Rei-sama.\" Hotaru revealed. She had been considering finding time to talk with Miho on recent developments. The Matsu wanted the opinion of a friend and clanmate, and thought bothering Katsuhiro was too much for the topic.\nA topic which was easily guessed given her name-dropping the city's resident matchmaker."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "*Eh?* \nMiho raised her eyes from the papers. It wasn't often that she seemed surprised ,but her eyebrows raised half a inch when Hotaru made clear what she wanted to talk about. She was flattened, and willing to hear her out, but she wasn't sure of how good of a choice she was. Describing her as unromantic was an understatement. Even the short relationships she had over the years were a bit like a doctor visit in her eyes, healthy, cyclical and left you with a weird taste in your mouth.\n\n\"Of course, Hotaru-san. I am all ears.\" She interlaced her fingers in front of her chin, staring at her friend wordlessly.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"I wanted your opinion on both Rokugo Yuto-san and Shiba Terumi-san. Both have.. Indicated interest.\" Yes. That was the polite way to sum up the very charged sparring matches she had held with both men. \n\nMiho was graced with a very rare sight as Hotaru finished her sentence, the slightest flush of the other woman's cheeks in what could only be a *Blush*."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho drank her tea. Like, the entire cup. She was still trying to reboot her brain from Hotaru blushing like a schoolgirl, and if she could have predicted the Shiba from the tea party the Scorpion was a strange surprise. Finally, she recovered the full control of her wits, and wiped her mouth politely, before giving her response.\n\n\"An interesting situation. Let's see: Bayushi-san has a higher position than Shiba-san, but he's from a vassal family, and not a very prestigious one (Her polite way of saying the Rokugo descended from an uppity cutthroat who should have been hanged instead of exalted). Future potential: Both are young, and could rise high in their clans, given time. They both seem too straightforward to be able to play the grand game, but a true bushi can still rise quite high with strength of arm and diligence. Lastly, the physical aspect... I have no particular opinions on this field, but as I said they're both young and vigorous, they should be able to provide children without issues. The Bayushi's genes would probably be more desiderable though.\" Through this entire thing, Miho spoke with a dispassionate, analytic voice, as if she was appraising the value of two farm animals. She didn't even consider asking her who she liked the most: the thought simply didn't cross her mind, since that was not something she even considered for her own marriage.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"I don't particularly care that Yuto-san is from a vassal family. My only true concerns are their virility, which their age will prove is no problem, and then their compatibility. While birthing children is my duty to the clan and thus the only real factor that matters in a match, I would want for them a good father, and for a husband, I would want an equal. So far I have enjoyed the company of both Yuto-san and Shiba-san well enough, but I want your opinion, as one who knows me, who you think would suit me better as a partner.\" \n\nThe blush faded as Hotaru wrenched her attention from recent memory, keeping it now mostly in the bottom of her cup as she spoke. Though she would flick her gaze up to Miho throughout. It would perhaps, also not go unnoticed to Miho that she referred to Yuto by his first name. A not unsurprising event if she was at all overly familiar with the Rokugo's preference for first names. \n\nIt was clear though, regardless of how she referred to either, that Hotaru considered them both equal on the playing field so far and perhaps, Miho might intuit that her friend was, in part, not entirely sure how to proceed being the focus of both men's interests."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Now she *Really* Needed a moment. Miho could talk at length about their merits, skills, political considerations. But sentimental matters? That was a whole different beast. But if her friend needed an advice, she *Would* Give it: she just had to dig, deep down, for the sour dry lemon that was her heart.\n\n\"I do not know them, or at least not as much as you do,\" She began slowly, looking down to her cup, \"But from what I have seen, they both have their strength and flaws. Bayushi-san is pure of heart: he remembers me of Rin, in some ways. Somehow, he has grown up in the Scorpion remaning untouched by their filth, and he does not fear to show himself for the way he is, good and bad. That requires Courage.\" A pause. \"However, he also seems like a fool to me, incapable of realising the times where a mask would be more of his interest. One must balance strategy and honor. Ningen-do is not perfect as Yomi, a samurai that is constantly honorable will find themselves struggling and eventually drowning. A glorious death, perhaps, but one that would make you useless to your clan and leave your family devoid of a husband and father.\"\n\n\"Then there's Shiba-san. He is very enigmatic, I personally find his smile off-putting, but in a way he is also very pure.\" A pause that had a particle of irony in it: Hotaru clearly had a type. \"He is humble and always ready to learn, and even after beating me in sparring he was eager to hear my stories and advice. He will go far, with this attitude. But in the same way, I am afraid he cannot see past the length of his blade: you could even become a swordmaster without equal, but what of the other aspects of life, growing, building things? I would have no interest in a man that refuses to cultivate all aspects of himself but the one thing he is good at: that means limiting your potential, and offering less of you to your wife and children. But as I said before, these are mainly my thoughts on the two of them: you have spoken more with them, peered in their soul. Try also thinking about the future: how would you see yourself with them, in ten, twenty years? The fires of passion might fade one day, but if your souls are well-tuned, you will have a relationship as stable as the roots of a mountain, capable of standing the tests of time.\"\n\nShe even surprised herself with this speech: where did she even have all these words on love? A moment before she woulf have sworn she didn't have one thing worth telling Hotaru. When she pushed herself, she always found things inside her that she thought long gone or never existing to begin with.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru found herself nodding along as she sipped her wine to Miho's words. In this moment the Lion felt validated in her decision to ask this of her friend. She found herself agreeing to much of Miho's words. \n\n\"I think you sum them both up well. Yuto-san is... *Bold*\" The word there held implications the Matsu did not expand upon and the blush almost seemed to return for a moment, had something happened between the two??? \"And I would agree, he comes across as less mature than Shiba-san, though I am most certain he is the elder of the two. Truly his demeanor confounds me, Yuto-san is either the most cunning Scorpion I have ever met, or one of the clan's greatest idiosyncrasies. Importantly though, I do not know how much more that personality can change.\" Hotaru points out. Yuto confounded her. At times, he was a fierce warrior speaking words she never would have though *Would* Leave his mouth. And yet others... Hotaru could equate him to no more than a child. She did not want to marry a child. \n\n\"Your insight on Shiba-san was something I had yet to notice. I would think that perhaps, if he truly is younger than Yuto-san as I assume him to be, Shiba-san may have more room to grow still. He does not cut me as a man too many years past his gempukku. There is a softness to him, but it is different from Yuto-san's. Shiba-san's softness is... More like a flower I think, where I liken Yuto-san's to that of a child.\" It was something she appreciated about both men, though.. Hotaru has less issue observing the Shiba's. She supposed she just had a weakness for pretty people and in the absence of the sakura-esque beauty of the Crane women that had caught her fancy in the past, she was finding herself attracted to the purer essence of these two men. Hotaru had always appreciated pretty things she mused.\n\n\"My fears for compatibility with either comes mostly from our gap in experience. They come across so young to me. It makes me feel old. But, as i have said.. I am enjoying their company so far. I suppose I worry that their interests are solely fueled by lust alone...\" Hotaru trailed off, ended up sipping from her cup, clearly ready for Miho to provide whatever insight she could."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She nodded along with her. She didn't really resonate with the child and flower metaphor, but she got what she was trying to convey. \n\n\"That is only normal at the start of a relationship: the Gods gave us lust to act as the gateway to the gardens of love. However, those that do not cross said gateway are not being serious in their interest. Give it some time. Put them in different situation, where the looks of both sides don't matter: tea, theater, you name it. That way you will learn their true character, see if they have potential to grow, and most of all if there is the chance for their carnal feelings to blossom.\" \n\nFor a moment, the Ikoma almost seemed like a Crane poet, musing about blossoming feelings and gardens of love, but Hotaru was quickly reassured on that front as she added with the tact of a sledgehammer: \"Besides, if you can't decide, just marry one and take the other as a lover. You wouldn't be the first nor the last.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Hmm.. True.\" Hotaru grunted, downing what was left of her cup to pour a second. \"Kami I hate talk of all this business. World is much simpler just fighting the clan's wars.\" Hotaru grumbled. \n\n\"Truely I hope we're not still in this shitstain come summer. With the Imperials in control of the city we're hardly going to war over here. Cant say I'd complain too much if we did though... Do you think we'll be heading east or west this year?\" Hotaru asked. Referring to which of the Unicorn and Crane their ire would be directed at some summer. \"Or perhaps we'll traipse south after those Hare Katsuhiro-sama has it out for...\" She further mused, looking at her cup and truly wishing in that moment it was something a tad stronger. Either way she seemed much more comfortable talking of war now than men."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "\"That is why we the Seven Kami taught us the high arts. If we were only warriors, we would be like the honorable but brutish savages that greeted Hantei-no-Kami.\" The Ikoma slipped in a lesson, stern as usual, but agreed with changing the subject. Like Hotaru,she had an easier time speaking of War than (bleah) feelings.\n\n \"I am afraid I cannot kindle your hopes, Hotaru-san. The Imperial government impedes us to solve this through war, of course, but that is precisely why we cannot leave yet: the situation is distant from being solved, and we need to stay here in case an opportunity comes up, and to keep cleansing the city of the scum. If we do march to war against the other clans, it will be other Legions that will do it for us.\" A pause. \"That said, I do not find impossible an expedition against the Hares. Truth to be told, I have never seen Akodo-sama so angry. The moment we find a casus belli, I believe we will be hunting Hares.\"\nShe quirked a brow. \"By the way, do you know what did they do? I was not informed of their precise offense, and I thought impudent to ask Him.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"The topic has come up over sake. I respect our friendship too much to repeat Katsuhiro-sama's words to others, but I will say that it *Has* Been a long while since I last saw him this livid. His rage shocked me with it's intensity and, if I am being honest, it would not surprise me if hare become a rare sight in the region if the Taisa has his way come hunting season.\" Katsuhiro's rage was not something Hotaru had expected to observe a few weeks back. It worried her, that kind of anger rarely abated until the object of ire had been thoroughly put in it's place."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She nodded her head. \"If it will come to that, so be it. Our behaviour in the city has been exemplar so far, as it is proper, but it would good to remind the world that a lounging lion is a lion still.\" She watched the level of the plum wine in the bottle , and found it worryingly low. This conversation had clearly stressed Hotaru, but she was not the type to leave things half-done. Better wrap this up. \"Forgive me if return on the subject, Hotaru-san, but I find important to truly end go the end of this conversation. This is not a decision you have to make immediately. Take all the time you need, there's little we can do but wait in this city. But consider asking for assistance: from me, of course, but also your family, other friends.\" She considered if this would sound creepy, but ultimately she went for it. \"I can even keep them under surveillance, if you'd like.\" Yeah, that *Did* Sound creepy. But the Ikoma didn't have completely clear how friends should help each other.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru chuckled. \"As humourous and potentially useful as stalking my suitors might be Miho-san, I cannot help but assume the Scorpion and Phoenix would take offense to such actions. But thank you, nonetheless, for the offer. You have been my first on the list of consultants because Katshuhiro-sama will no doubt want to meddle and Kenshin-san is liable to write a pillowbook over the affair. But.. I *Do* Intend to seek both their counsel in time. And.. As for my family... Father with no doubt be over the moon when I write, but I hope to have decided on one to primarily pursue before then. I would all who's opinions might sway me now, but as close to summer as we are, I do not know how reliable letters will be across Beidin Pass. I will wait for the begining of Autumn to write home on the topic.\""
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho tilted her head- had she accidentally made a joke? But quickly focused on the follow-up. \n\n\"That is a problem indeed. If I remember well, there were also rumors of bandits targeting specifically ours and Cranes caravans on that road... Perhaps we should also do something about it.\" She touched her chin, sighing. \"I should also write my mother, as well. She's a patient one, but a few months ago on my birthday she sent me a furisode ~~unmarried women's kimono~~ too small for me. I think that's a clear hint of her wishes.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru gave an obvious chuckle. \"I do not envy you your mother, Miho-san. I am just glad my father has been far too busy raising Aiko and organizing my brother's betrothal. If you have not, perhaps speak with Akodo-sama or even perhaps Kenshin-san. Both know the legion's ranks well enough I imagine to point out a few worthy of your attention.\" She suggested.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She shook her head lightly. She had long discarded the idea of marrying in her legion: the only people of her status were other Chui, and they were rivals to surpass rather than potential grooms. Besides, anchoring herself too much to this unit could mean limiting her future possibilities. \"That won't be necessary. I think Akodo-sama already arranged for me a possible groom: Asako Sanumo, the *Karo* Of the Phoenix.\"\n\n She wanted to keep this secret for a little more, just in case nothing would come out of it, but since they were apparently speaking about marriages she might as well share her part with her friend.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Oh?\" Hotaru exclaimed, her brows raising in interest. \"Who's marrying whom? Be a real pity to lose you to the Phoenix.\" She noted. Miho was damn good at her job and while Hotaru knew there would be a number of soldiers under her relieved if she left, the woman enforced a discipline and standard the Matsu greatly respected. The Ikoma was undoubtedly an asset and one that would be missed."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She was almost amused by Hotaru's inquiry. \"He's marrying *Me,* Of course. I could think about it if he was of higher rank, but as it is I believe It would be a waste to commit my talents to a clan that hardly ever goes to war. The topic didn't come up yet, but i'll make sure to manifest that clearly once the time comes. \" No minced words. To her marriage was political and only political, and if the two of them would be good partners or whatever was irrelevant. All she needed from him was to be a good asset and not get in the way of her success, and she'd be fine. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru's lips quirked in a conspiratorial smirk that reached her eyes. \"Of course! I am glad to hear it!\" Hotaru would sip from her cup, finishing it off and look at the piles of paperwork Miho still had to get through.\n\n\"Well... As lovely as this conversation has been friend, I feel as though I may be stealing you away form you one true love... I shall keep you appraised of how your cousin goes. If you need anything else from me, you only need ask.\" Hotaru smiled, it was friendly and warm.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho's face twitched weirdly- was she ill or something? It was just starting to look worrying, until her lips open and she finally offers her a small smile.\n\"Same goes for me, Hotaru-San.\" \n\n\n ||"
}
] | 153 | 5,740 |
263.478261 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Soshi Miyoko made a visit to the Lion embassy, in early afternoon. Her hair was down, cascading down her body to her mid-back, and gently swaying with the coming and going of the wind. The main color of her Kimono was red, with flower designs sprinkled across the garment, painting brilliant pinks, violets and blues. The edges were trimmed with black. She waited for a reply after informing a servant of her request for an audience, standing mostly still, and admiring the garden."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "In the back of the embassy garden had stood a shrine maiden, brushing the floors with a broom. Making sure they were sparkly clean and not even a sprinkle of dirt remained on the stones. She was about the size of well, a child. Only standing a solid 5 feet tall she could've been easily overlooked if it was not for the giant dog standing beside her. It had alerted the shrine maiden by first nudging the maiden. Which almost made her lose her balance. The moment it got her attention it aimed at the Scorpion in the garden. \n\nAs a result the shrine maiden had tilted her head. Approaching the Scorpion before announcing herself by questioning. *\"Is there anything I could help you with scorpion-sama?\"* The voice was warm and nice and seemed to have no ill intend. The dog behind her had been approaching as well. Sitting down next to the woman as it never took its eye off the scorpion. \n\n*\"Could I offer you some tea?\"* The Kitsu asked. Her hair was golden and loose like manes. Almost touching the ground the length they owed. On her skin there were numerous scars, which seemed from battle. Her eyes had been discolored and therefore had not made direct contact with the Scorpion but looked just past her. Her face bore a polite smile as she awaited the reply. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "The movement and sound quickly shifted Miyoko's attention and she offered a slight smile, only a few inches taller than the Kitsu, at five foot four inches herself. \nShe gave a respectful bow to the shrinekeeper, \"Yes, I was hoping to introduce myself to some of the lion clansmen. That's quite the companion you have there, they seem very attentive.\"\n The Soshi tries cooing at the dog to lighten it's disposition towards her, careful not to make any sudden moves, \"Who do I have the pleasure of addressing? I am called Soshi Miyoko.\" Her demeanor was friendly and unassuming, as she cast a radiant smile. Her eyes stayed attentive and sharp, the biggest sign slipping through that she wasn't entirely at ease. \"Your companion looks healthy, they're quite large. Do you mind if I ask how old they are?\"\n\n\"Oh no I couldn't possibly impose upon you, though I'm sure your tea is as lovely as the garden you've kept so pristine.\" Miyoko weaved a compliment in with her refusal. Her eyes studying the Kitsu, taking note of her features, the Soshi took a moment to stop and disarm herself, setting her wakizashi beside herself on the right side, with the hilt towards herself, she kept only her fan secured at her side."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had looked at the interaction between Miyoko and Ilu. As Ilu was awaiting her master's bidding she simply remained on guard. In result Himiko had nodded to the animal as it took a more relaxed position. Even carefully approaching the woman. Wagging her tail ever so slightly.\n\nThen Himiko had bowed down. Together with Ilu as it once more followed its master's wish. Then she approached again. *\"It is an honor to meet you Soshi-sama. This is Ilu, she's around 6 years old now I reckon. \"* The kitsu rose again as she stared at the wakizashi for a moment. *\"My name is Kitsu Himiko.\"* The girl smiled. *\"So if you wish to talk to the people of the clan. It seems that I am currently the only one here. Sorry to disappoint you.\"* The Kitsu spoke. Looking at the broom still in her hand as she seemed to brush away a leaf, short attention span. \n\n*\"Thank you for the compliments of the garden. It is mostly Akodo-sama's work however.\"* Once more the Kitsu had not made eye contact."
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Miyoko interjected adopting an obviously coy tone, \"Perhaps you are the only one here, but why would that be disappointing? Are you not a Lion, Kitsu-San? Perhaps if I am good company, I might be graced with the appearance of others later.\" She offered a lighter smile, amused by Himiko's demeanor.\n\nAdopting back her friendly, disarming tone, the Soshi continued, \"I recently returned to Ryoko Owari Toshi, and so need to make proper introductions. Please pass my compliments on to Akodo-san then when you see them? I'd love to make their acquaintance if they're the main gardener here. May I let Ilu get a better smell of me and pet her a little? I find most animals are a lot friendlier if you let them get a sense for you like that. Did you raise Ilu yourself?\" \n\nThe wind brushed across the area, scattering a few new leaves back onto the path, as it fluttered and weaved around the two women and the hound. The Soshi took a momentary pause to try and open the door for the Kitsu to ask her a question of her own."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Because I have no interesting stories to share. Therefore a conversation with Akodo-sama would be much more interesting. As for my lion heritage I have no doubt.\"* Himiko spoke whilst giving Ilu the space to investigate this scorpion. Himiko wanted to sigh but refused to give in. Therefore she simply waved at the dog to approach. \n\n*\"Ilu seems interested enough. Go ahead.\"* With this the giant dog had approached with caution. Sniffing around as she could and wagging her tail a bit. *\"Ilu was a gift from the Kitsu family. Although I have not raised her fully, I have had her since she was only three months old.\"* Himiko shared. *\"Although I must say Ilu has her own will every now and then.\"* The smaller Kitsu spoke. \n\n*\"Is Ryoko Owari Toshi your hometown?'* Himiko questioned. Her tone had never shifted from sounding friendly and polite. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "pretendvampire",
"message": "A few screens could be heard sliding out and clacking closed in the embassy itself as Kozue went to investigate the voices in the courtyard which had sounded overly formal for the time of the day. The Matsu could sense politicking from a mile away and did not mind looming in it's presence, which either tended to make things less formal or ended the event itself outright. \n\nKozue had always cherished her gift for staring at people until they left or felt silly for being so puppet-like. She believed that the Lion courtiers had started with this skill at the dawn of the empire and had simply gotten worse at it over time. Why they traded it in for Crane's rules of court she would never understand. Such games involved far too much ho-humming and preening. \n\nShe appeared in the gardens in a practical kimono, tans, whites, and yellows. She'd been bathing not that long again and she'd oiled her hair and let it down. Her hair was on the shorter side compared to both of the other women present. It a messy wolf cut that honestly needed a trim, her bangs had gotten especially wild. She did not say anything on her approach. Only moved in to look at the small Scorpion-ko. She made silent bow, as not to be rude, even if she had come here to gawk. Other than that she remained silent for a moment and took in the conversation about Ilu. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had noticed the Matsu stand beside her. After all she stood tall and strong. Yet she was deadly silent. Himiko had bowed down at the Matsu. No word was spoken. Then she turned back at the Scorpion. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "\"You're telling me such interesting stories already though, Kitsu-San, how can you say you've nothing to share? I do look forward to meeting this Akodo-San you speak highly of however.\" Said the scorpion, kneeling down once Himiko had affirmed it was alright. A bit more on eye level with Ilu, the Soshi began brushing her fingers through the messy mane the dog had, careful not to accidentally pull any tangle or matts that she might feel.\n\n\"Oh is that true, Ilu-San? Are you not always the most in tune with Kitsu-San?\" Miyoko offered a bright smile, speaking to Ilu, but eyes attentive to Himiko, and the new face stalking up to the conversation. The Soshi matched the other girls exchanging a bow of her own, \"Another Lion-San? I hope your day fares well, I am Soshi Miyoko.\" Miyoko took in the newly arrived figure as she responded to Himiko, \"Yes I was born here in Ryoko Owari Toshi, but as I said, I've only just returned here. It's been a long time, as I was only a child when I was last here.\"\n\nMiyoko kept both lions in her view, but shifted her attention to Kozue, as she explained, \"I came to give proper introductions and get to know some of the city's lion clansmen. Would you be willing to introduce yourself, Lion-San?\" Miyoko offered a disarming smile as she inquired. \"Also, Kitsu-San, may I ask what sort of gift to you that Ilu was?\" The scorpion's eyes were flitting between the two Lions attentive to who she spoke to or whomever was speaking.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "pretendvampire",
"message": "Kozue watched the small girl play with the hound. There was a gentleness and a poise to her that Kozue knew immediately could be trouble. The way she smiled while she pet the dog seemed genuine and open. If such a display with true, it meant she was probably a sweet girl despite the shadow play of Scorpion *Grace.* If her display of joy were an act, then she was truly a gifted weapon, a blade being slipped in exactly where it ought to go. \n\nModeration had taught Kozue that all truths rested in the middle of things for the plurality of situations. Temperance was to be heeded everywhere but the battlefield and bedchamber. So she decided that this Soshi Miyoko was a sweet girl who was being wielded by a crafty lord, and that any sort of affections or familiarity Kozue might have with the girl would become bittersweet eventually. Poison mixed in with honey, truly the way of the Scorpion indeed.\n\nShe softened her natural scowl a bit, \"Matsu Kozue,\" She said simply, taking a few steps forward, stepping into the Scorpion's space to also silently kneel down and pet Ilu. She took care to not actually touch Miyoko though, as such a thing was improper in public. \"It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance Soshi-san,\" She said in an uncharacteristically gentle tone as she watched their hands nearly touch a few times. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had turned to the scorpion and smiled as her direct question made her tilt her head a bit. Then the eyes glaced over to the dog who was obviously getting way too much attention for her to be good. As the once mighty beast had now surrendered by laying on her back, enjoying all the patting she was granted. This made Himiko smirk. *\"Ilu was a gift. Uh- Well more like a companion. When my biological parents, whom were also Kitsu, had died due to an unfortunate accident, the head Kitsu back in the day gave me it for company and friendship.\"* Himiko then rubbed the back of her head. *\"I did not have that many Kitsu friends because I had a grumpy mood often.\"* The small lion spoke. \n\nShe however had not yet let her guard down. She was aware that even though Akodo was not here to watch her like an eagle, she knew that if something would happen the matsu would charge in without a second consideration. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo Katsuhiro rounded the corner in a casual outfit, his sleeves tied up and his hands dirty from his gardening. The plain brown kimono reminicent of the soil found in lion lands, though mismatched with the earth found on this side of the island and by the river. He walked out from behind one of the buildings where had had been ~~playing~~ working on his gardening project. The weather on this side of the mountains had been slowing him down, but he was making valiant progress none-the-less.\n\n\"Oh? Do we have a guest?\" Akodo walked over, brushing his hands against one another to stand beside Himiko, watching the two ladies pet the rather spoiled dog. He gave a slight bow, showing he viewed himself as of higher station than Soshi, but was warm in his greeting.\n\n\"I am -\" He glanced, realizing Himiko was in her priestess clothing, and Matsu was rubbing a dog belly. Perhaps it wasn't quite the place for full formality, \"Akodo Katsuhiro.\" He left off anything that would otherwise show his rank, though at his side he carried a plain black wakazashi. He did not garden with his katana, but a Lion was to be armed at all times. And if that was the word of his family's kami, then he would obey."
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "\"I am honored to make your acquaintance, Matsu-San.\" Miyoko said, mindful of her own hands as she pet Ilu. Attentive to Himiko's explanation and story, the Soshi said, \"Well, you seem extremely pleasant to me, I'm sure you must have many more Kitsu friends these days.\"\n\n\"If it's not too forward of me, I'd be overjoyed to make plans with you two in the future.\" Miyoko looked up as Akodo made his appearance, quickly rising to her feet, and returning his bow with a more polite full bow, offering him the same respect she had the other Lions, \"I am Soshi Miyoko, it's a pleasure to meet you, Akodo-San. Kitsu-San spoke earlier of your talents in cultivating this lovely garden. I really admire it, perhaps I might be able to learn from your talents at a later date? I came to offer introductions, I recently returned here to Ryoko Owari Toshi.\" \n\n\"I am grateful for the gracious greetings I've received here, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect upon my arrival at first.\" \nShe glanced between three lions, offering a deeper bow as she thanked them for their great show of hospitality. \"Might I be welcome to visit again in the future? Not that I'm in any hurry to depart now, but it seems appropriate to ask, though perhaps that's a better question for whomever is the Lion Ambassador to answer? I hope you would speak highly of me to them, and I look forward to meeting them if they're nearly as lovely as you've all been to me.\" She offered a radiant smile."
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "*So that is your game, eh?* It would be odd on the best of days for a Scorpion to come by and just introduce themselves, but for someone who 'just returned home' to stop by the embassy of a clan they had just framed in the prospects of starting a war, there *Had* To be an ulterior motive. However, as is their way, she couldn't just come out and *Say* What she was doing here. So he gave just a heartbeat to see if it looked like Himiko wanted to respond, and when she did not he took the initiative.\n\n\"I thank you for you for your kind words, Soshi-san. It is still a work in progress, but it is a nice break from all the fighting. I feel confident speaking for Ambassador-dono that you are welcome to come and visit again. I hope to make the gardens here a bit of an oasis in the city, since the Lion embassy is perhaps now the safest place in the city aside from the Imperial residence.\"\n\nHis face was warm, it would certainly be nice to have someone whom they could speak to the Scorpion clan through, but they also had tea later with the Ambassador himself, so he was not sure what this would lead to."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had only nodded to the compliments of friends. If only the Scorpion knew. A life of solitude at first, even now it had been that way. But she would not speak of such information into the outside world. So instead she granted the Scorpion a courtly smile. Then the request of another meeting came up before Akodo had joined. *\"I'll make sure the next time you visit our tea will still be steaming hot for you.\"* Himiko had accepted the invite. Bowing down to the Scorpion in return. \n\n*\"I am almost certain the Lion ambassador will be delighted to meet you. After all it has been a while since I had a friendly conversation.\"* With somebody of the Scorpion that is. And for how long would it remain friendly. Those thoughts ran through her head yet she had not shown a bit of hesitation in her politeness. \n\n*\"I apologize you've only made it into our garden. I am quite missing my hospitality today. But please come by again.\"* Himiko added to Akodo. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "pretendvampire",
"message": "\"Forward is something the Matsu can handle Soshi-san, you're welcome to join me for tea sometime,\" She responded as they pet Ilu together, before Akodo Katsuhiro rounded the corner. She gave Himiko a look that seemed like she was about to ask a question right before Katsuhiro did show up. She quieted herself again for her betters to speak.\n\nHowever When Katsuhiro mentioned the Lion Embassy being among the safest places in the city Kozue could not help but give Miyoko a cocksure smirk that seemed to suggest *Yes it's safe, because I'm here.* Once Himiko had said her peace she realized that she ought to walk out with the ambassador. It would do well to play bodyguard. She rose and gave the Scorpion a silent bow, and then flanked Himiko on the other side of Katsuhiro, slightly to the back."
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Miyoko returned the bows of the other girls, smiling brightly at their, before turning to face Katsuhiro. \"I will look forward to tea together next time, perhaps I will bring some of my own to share in turn, so that I am not imposing?\" Her eyes shifted to the remaining lion. \"An oasis does sound lovely, especially when dark clouds gather. Though the weather is absolutely lovely today, don't you think?\"\n\n\"Oh dear, have I overstayed my welcome, Akodo-San? Or would you be willing to walk me through the gardens? I really would love to see and hear about the work you've done here, it's breathtaking. I don't have the talent for arranging gardens like this, but I do know a bit about plants.\" She smiled, standing still and meeting his eyes directly. \"I hope it would be relaxing for you too, here in the freshest air of your oasis?\" Then waited for his reply."
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo gave the Lion ladies a slight bow as they departed Ilu traipsing along behind Himiko back towards the compound. A slight smile on his face as he watched them walk off, \"We are fortunate to have two very talented Shugenja here, though\" He stood along side Miyoko as he began to walk her towards his construction project, \"The Nikutai Matsu is one of my favorite up and coming bushi. There is something about her, and internal balance of Yin and Yang that makes her an exceptional Samurai.\" As they moved into the gardens, Miyoko could only barely see the beginnings of what the final plan would be. Next to the main embassy building he was digging out soil and then piling it up elsewhere.\n\n\"I was very fortunate to befriend one of the Dragon clan Shugenja who helped me recieving the blessings of the Kami for this project. I plan to put in a pond there for reflections as part of the study garden. Those are what I specialize in, but Ambassador-dono has given me leave to use up as much of the ground as I would like, so I am expanding my skill sets. It has been a long time since I have stayed in one place and been able to work on a garden.\"\n\nAs they walked around the grounds, Akodo pointed out and described his intentions for the grounds and how he wanted to decorate them, running into tangents about his struggles locating anything the Unicorn Bazaar and wandering the city looking for craftsmen. The path that he took them on around the perimeter also had them cross paths with quite a few guards, who would bow to them in passing and address him as 'Taisha' to which Akodo would give them a nod of respect. It would eventually stand out that there were *A lot* Of Lion bushi in the embassy. Not a few more than what would normally be expected, but perhaps double the number of Ashigaru alone.\n\n\"I do appreciate the lovely weather\" He said, bringing the coverstion back around, \"Though I have found in my experience that if you do not like the weather in Rokugan, you need only wait a few days and it will change. It seems the winds are always changing. What is nice one day, can become a taifun the next. I intend for the garden I build here to weather even a taifun. The weather can be stubborn, but I life has taught me to be even more so.\" He spared her a stray smile at his comment, and there was something about him that made these words strike as true. Akodo was perhaps only average for a man in height, but he was exceptionally broad of shoulder, and his arms and legs were thick with the muscles of a samurai who worked constantly. He appeared, more than anything, like weathered old tree that was firmly rooted to the earth, almost immovable. Solid.\n\n\"How are you liking the city now that you have returned to it after many years away? I have found that things always seem to change faster than I would think.\""
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "\"It's pleasant to hear you speak so highly of your clanmates, Akodo-San.\" Miyoko offered, as they walked the garden path. \"A Dragon Shugenja helped you receive the blessings of the Kami? How wonderful, I think the pond would be beautiful, and a perfect place for reflection indeed, under cover of night it'd be a calming spot for introspection, though I don't think that's what you'd meant, Akodo-San.\" She said smiling and seemingly opening up with some of her inner thoughts. \"I am excited to see how it translates from your plan to the landscape here. Would you share the story you want it to tell when walking the garden path? I'm afraid I don't have the skills to understand that on my own.\" She offered a bow of humility, to apologize for her lack of understanding as she asked Akodo-San to enlighten her. \n\n\"Really you have had struggles yourself with finding the proper resources? What kind of things are you trying to acquire precisely?\" Miyoko averted his eyes for a moment, \"Maybe a Mantis-San could help you find what you're looking for? Would you be-\" She froze abruptly mid-sentence when she heard him addressed as Taisa. Miyoko stopped to give a deep bow, \"Akodo-Sama! I had meant you no disrespect, I hope you'll forgive my lacking manners up to this point. I should've known from your slight bow earlier when greeting me. Will you please overlook my mistake?\" She shifted a bit, waiting for his response to her emphatic apology. She did not kneel and prostrate herself however, only offering a deep standing bow.\n\n\"Even when the weather is pleasant, I carry an umbrella for when things may suddenly turn rather than rage against the rain. Flowers are beautiful in it's wake. I am sure your garden will weather any typhoon, Akodo-Sama, because it has you behind it. The city changes, but business continues as usual, just now I am responsible rather than simply watching from the sidelines as I had before. Someday scandal will find us all.\""
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo did find this little dance they were doing enjoyable. The reaction to his title had not been the one he had expected, but he realized she was playing it safe due to the Lion clan's reputation. When she bowed deeply to him and apologized, he made a dismissive gesture to clear the air.\n\n\"You owe no one an appology, Soshi-san. I am new to the city, and unless the Scorpion clan had already researched who I was, you had no way of knowing. Today, I am merely a humble gardener. When I am a Taisa, you will know I am a Taisa.\" He favored her with a small, friendly smile, and then began to continue their walk.\n\n\"I am not quite yet such a master as to have a tale to tell, but I hope that the path through the gardens feels like home. So along the entry, I wanted something to separate the chi of the entrance from the peace of the garden, so I piled mounts high. It was then, I decided this could be the Spine of the World Mountains. It doesn't quite work out geographically, because of the space and the buildings, but it gave me inspration. So just here are the Matsu provinces with the low planes running up to the mountains, and while Lion lands are flat and I did not want my garden to be, it shifrts into the Akodo lands over there. We have a famous brick city, and a red brown wheat that grows there, so I am honoring the colors and our great forest over there. Then the rivers and the castles of the Ikoma provinces over there where I will have a fountain and the stone lanterns to be castles.\"\n\nAkodo sighs wistfully as the tour wraps around and takes them back to the front. It may take a sharp mind to realize he had left out the Kitsu, but it would take an even sharper one to realize that as he had laid out the gardens, that would make where the embassy stood the Kitsu lands.\n\n\"It is a long work ahead of me, but I hope it will feel like home to the Lion who spend their lives here.\""
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "After the gentle acceptance of her apology, she brought up her fan, taking a bit of time and hiding her expression. She was perfectly attentive to the history lesson on lion lands, \"I see, so it's maybe to be a tale of history, pride and family? I don't think any would dare to fault you for things not necessarily matching up one-to-one, Akodo-Sama, you are surely overcritical of your work. If you'll pardon my ignorance, where does that place the Kitsu lands? I need to study up a bit better on geography, but it was very interesting listening to you speak about it so thoroughly. Is it a passion of yours or are you well traveled and recall fondly the lands you've roamed? I've spent much of my life moving between different scorpion lands, so I think I would relate in that second way, Akodo-Sama.\" \n\nShe dropped her fan at this point, offering a bright smile and meeting his gaze again, \"Thank you for the tour. I'm sure that your companions will feel as if beloved and acknowledged family here with the fruition of your vision. I will not keep you for any longer, thank you again for your time today, Akodo-Sama, I hope we might meet again soon?\""
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"We are fortunate to have several Kitsu shugenja working with us at our embassy, including our Ambassador, so it felt fitting that the embassy itself was the Kitsu lands in my grand geography.\" Akodo had been pleased the positioning simply worked out that way, and it felt appropriate given Himiko's role.\n\nAkodo gave her a slight bow as they made their goodbyes, perhaps even bowing just slightly more than he did upon their introduction. They had both played games in this visit, but he appreciated getting to indulge in his art, even if it was part of such a game. She played it well.\n\n\"I have enjoyed our walk, Soshi-san. Perhaps next time we can walk in the Scorpion gardens.\""
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "\"Oh that's a clever idea, I see. So they probably feel most at home and at ease.\" Miyoko nodded, and returned his bow, offering a deeper respectful bow. \"It has been a nice walk, you are more than welcome to seek me out in the scorpion gardens, though I can't promise my clanmates would give such a warm welcome, I would be happy to greet you there.\" She looked distantly for a moment, went to say something and stopped herself.\n\nInstead of speaking any further, she gave another smile and bow, before departing the lion embassy.\n\n||End scene!"
}
] | 254 | 6,060 |
253.076923 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Rin stood awkwardly In the middle of the corridor before asking a guard for directions, for the third time. The embassy was still ginormous to her, and every time she thought she had the mental map of the place nailed down her head started to spin at the sheer size of the building. Finally, though, she was here, at the cost of a lot of wandering and many ashigaru annoyed. The door to Miu's room.\n\nShe had been prepared to just let the wound heal with time, as she had always done, until one of the Lions she was introducing herself to pointed out why she wouldn't just ask the shugenja to cure her, and she immediately rushed to search for her. Besides the healing, she had never seen a real shugenja before, as they were rare in the Lion and doubly so in rural areas, and wanted to see their mythical powers in person.\n\n*Where's the gift? Ah, here...* This time she had remembered to actually bring something, unlike with Himiko: a crimson headband with a dozen different kanji emblazoned on it, all something on the lines of \"Honor\", \"Glory\", \"Sacrifice\" And other banal things in painfully bright characters. It wasn't exactly the most refined of gifts, but she thought it was nice, so it had to be a good gift, right?\n\n\"I'm sorry, could you announce Kitsu-sama I would like to see her? My name is Matsu Rin, recruit of the Third Company.\" She said to the first servant she found near the door (whether it was her real attendant or not) and waited impatiently, pulling her fingers excitedly.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "However the attendant had no true moment of rest as the door to Miu's room slid open and two curious golden eyes peered right into Rin's. A smile grand and radiant like lady sun. Her manes were beyond crimson red and spoke on their own. She had been wearing simple clothing, a brown like shimo, some socks and a white top. It was quite revealing but what would one expect just suddenly showing up. \n\nIt had been revealing her golden ancestry engraved into her body. A kind gesture dismissed the attendant. *\"I heard my name.\"* The Kitsu would stretch and then bow down to the Matsu. *\"It is an honor meeting you. I am Kitsu Miu. Is there anything I could help you with?\"* She politely asked as curiosity clearly covered her face. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Rin raised her head, and raised her head, and kept raising it, until it was almost parallel to her shoulders. Despite her resolve to look composed and impenetrable like a true samurai, she couldn't help but drop her jaw as her eyes shone like stars. *She's huuuge! And her hair are so red, and I thought mine were unique-and what are those tattoos? I want them too, maybe I can ask where she got them?* She had expected a lot from the shugenja, of course, but this exceeded all her expectations. So stunned she was, that she just stood straight as Miu bowed as if she was a lord, and realised all too late her discourtesy, bowing frantically.\n\n\"A-ah, hello, Kitsu-sama, it's a honor for you- for me, as well! My name is Matsu Rin, new recruit of the Third Company, and I've been told that you could help me with this injury- if you want, if you have time, o-of course.\" She holds out her bandaged arm like some sort of offer.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu would stare at the arm like it had been a gift. She would squint her eyes for a second as she would chuckle for a moment. *\"Looks like whoever got you, Matsu-san, got you good.\"* She would gently gesture for the Matsu to put her arm down. *\"Come.\"* She would gesture the Matsu to walk into her room. Her room had been nothing but a peaceful sanctuary. Some incense here and there and a tatami mat. Other than that it was empty. She would grab two pillows and place them on the ground. \n\n*\"Sit.\"* Miu would gesture the Matsu to get seated on a pillow. Then Miu would do the same. *\"Can you show me your injuries?\"* She would politely ask. Making sure to maintain calm as not everyone could contain themselves when there were wounds. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "\"Y-yes, Matsu Hotaru-sama is a great swordsman...\" She agreed meekly as she walked into the room carefully. Its peacefulness was off-putting to her, as the bundle of energy she was, but at least there weren't many things she could accidentally knock over. \n\nShe sat down where she Miu pointed her to, holding her arm high despite the fact it had stopped bleeding a long time ago. She was just about to heed her request, when she realised she had forgotten something. \"Ah, by the way, I got you this, Kitsu-sama. Please accept it as the sign of my appreciation.\" She handed her the gaudy headband a bit unceremoniously, as she tried simultaneously to follow proper protocol and unroll the bandages. When she was done, the wound stood clear to Miu: a shallow, horizontal cut between her shoulder and elbow, not bleeding, but still fresh. It was clear the author of this wound had wanted to only harm her only this much and no more. \"Is there something you can do for it...?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Tell me why Hotaru-san cut you? Aren't you supposed to use bokken in simple brawls?\"* Miu seemed concerned for a moment. She would glance at the gift and deny it twice before taking it. Smiling grandly at her. Even taking her time to stand and bow at her. She would accept the headband and put it in her hair. It fit perfectly somehow. *\"Thank you Matsu-san.\"* \n\nThe Kitsu went on and not sit down but light some incense into the room. *\"Don't worry about it Matsu-san. Nothing the kami can't fix.\"* She would wink before this time sitting down again. She would whisper a few words, hum a melody and with that her hands started to slightly glow and illuminate the room. A smal hah! Would sound from the shugenja, not that she had been surprised, she was simply happy. *\"Sit still. It might tickle a bit.\"* \n\nAnd with that, the power of the water kami made her perform a healing spell. She was humming all the way through. She would carefully touch the wound as a warm yet a bit stingy feeling would cover the wound area and heal it to its fullest. Leaving no scar whatsoever. \n\n*\"Move your arm carefully please.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Suddenly she realised how strange that remark must have seemed to the Kitsu, and hurried to explain: \"Ah, you see, she has been mentoring me, and she wanted to teach me a lesson, so for the first lesson we used real blades- it was just for this time, though! I, think.\" However, she stopped speaking as the Kitsu put on the headband. She liked it? Really? That was a relief! She wasn't even sure it would fit her, she was getting good at this giftgiving thing!\n\nShe observed curiously her rituals, with the face of those unburdened by things like thoughts, and finally straightened her spine as Miu prepared to do her magic (literally). She hadn't lied, it *Did* Tickle, and she was very sensitive to tickling, but although her face reddened like a beet she squeezed her thighs and stayed still until she was done.\n\nAnd then, it was over. She was slightly surprised: she had expected it to be more flashy, like flares of energy or something, but the results were undeniable. As she raised her arm, her pain was gone, her mobility had fully returned... And her scar was gone.\n\nThe large smile froze on her face, dying a little. She dropped her arm low, and avoided the Kitsu's gaze for a moment.\n\nShe didn't know how to say this without looking stupid. \"I-i m sorry, Kitsu-sama, i do not mean to appear ungrateful. I can't thank you enough for your help. However... I kind of wished to keep the scar, so I could remember Matsu-sama's lessons when looking at it... I-is it possible for me to just make a little cut over my arm and then you cicatrise it just a little? If it's not possible,I understand, of course! It's just, you know... Yeah.\" She shifted her legs uncomfortably. Why did she talk? Couldn't she just shut up and take the gift as it came? Her and her damn obsession with theatrics. *Be honest, Rin, you just want it to look cool in front of your siblings, don't you?* But now there was nothing she could do, the cat was out of the bag. All that was possible was going through with this, like a true Matsu.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had looked at the strange request of the Matsu. She would shake her head. *\"Matsu-san. I will not harm you. After all that is not who I am.\"* Miu would face the Matsu as she gestured to look at her with pride. Insecurity would cost one a head in battle, even the shugenja knew. *\"I will not let you harm you for the sake of a lesson. If you need violence to share knowledge then the lesson hasn't been thought well.\"* Miu stated before leaning back a bit. The Kitsu would reveal her arm. These were scars too. Deep scars of golden that mimicked as an tattoo.\n\n*\"A scar should tell a story instead. Since you truly gifted me a good gift I can appreciate. Let me return one for you Matsu-san.\"* The Kitsu would rummage through her closet only to find a small blade, one used for small things like cutting paper for Miu's instance for the Omamori. Another box would be revealed, that one remained closed. She would sit down in front of the Matsu and smiled slightly. *\"May I?\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Rin tried to hide the curve of her mouth as she looked at the Kitsu, her face red. But violence was the way a warrior learnt, right...? Many lessons had been literally beaten into her at the dojo, and she found the Kitsu's approach more alien than Hotaru's. \n\nHowever, she was uplifted Miu mentioned a story. There were few things she liked more than a good tale, and if it involved those golden scars, it had to be amazing! \"Of course, Kitsu-sama!\" She put her hands on her knees with a curious expression, already forgetting her disappointment.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Very well.\"* Miu stated before leaning back a bit before placing the small knife and the box down. *\"You see I was raised in two ways. The way of the warrior, much like you, Bishamon if you will. Second I was raised as a shugenja. In my lifetime I was graced with the idea of combining those two forces, perhaps I'll master it when I spend more time here.\"* Miu would rub the back of her head before making sure the headband Rin had gifted her would sit straight on her head. \n\n*\"Me and my friends went out. Keep in mind my friends are bishamon's chosen as well as I have lived there for as long as I can recall. My friends and I wanted to prove our strength to Bishamon. So we went to our sensei and asked for how we could prove our strength.\"* Miu would smirk. *\"Next time I'll bring some tea.\"* She paused a bit. \n\n*\"Our samurai told us that we could prove ourself by challenging a lion. Us children gullible as ever decided to believe so. Perhaps he thought the same. Resorting to violence to teach us something. So we went out to the forest. After seeking out in the places we wished to be to find our Lion, we hadn't found one. In our dissapointment we hadn't stumbled upon a mighty one. There was a reason he called for a Lion in rural lands. They were not there to be found.\"* Miu looked at Rin with a warm smile. \n\n*\"On our way home we had however stumbled upon a bear. I told them not to approach it but they had not listened. After all we had to be strong, not cowardly. Perhaps you'll understand what happens to three children challenging a bear?\"* Miu stated. \n\n*\"The bear had grabbed ahold of one of my friends and she got gravely wounded. If it wasn't for me being as tall back then. She would have died. I nearly lost my arm.\"* Miu smiled. \n\n*\"The two Bishamon friends did lose a leg and an arm. Never to be warriors again over a stupid challenge to show our will as warrior.\"* Miu stated. She would hold out her arm. Tracing a golden scribble on her arm. *\"This would be their part of my lifeline. It is beautiful is it not? We remained friends by the way. We still are.\"* She looked at the lines. \n\n*\"Please let me help you tell your story.\"* She would hold up the small box and opened it as it contained golden fragments. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Rin was mesmerised. Usually her attention span could have exasperated the most patient Akodo, but when it came to stories, she could sit still for hours, listening a tale she had already heard a thousand times- and this was a new, exciting one. However, as the excitement wore off she also understood the lesson behind it... This was another fear of hers, to be crippled before she even had the chance to become a real warrior, and Miu's scars made her ridiculous \nBut then what was she supposed to do? She had to show her courage, right? How else people would know she was ready...\n\n\"I-it is, Kitsu-sama. Your story was beautiful as well.\" However, she perked up as she opened the box, leaning in to see its content. \"Uh, what are these things, Kitsu-sama?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Those are the things my scars were cherished with. You said that a scar should stand for a lesson. I found the middle ground that it should stand for a reminder, a story, something you cherish.\"* She would put the small knife and the box with gold down. *\"If you wish I could help you make your own story. I feel truly bad for taking away your scar. But I will not hurt you on purpose. Or without purpose Matsu-san. If you truly wish your scar back, the only way I will do it is the way I've learned how.\"* Miu stated. She looked relaxed as she clearly did not want to push her ways onto the warrior in front of her. \n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "\"Eh?\" She didn't really understand the last phrase. Was she going to fight her? She definitely wouldn't mind a little brawl, she was already getting itchy feet from staying still so long, but it felt like it contradicted with Miu's recent lesson. A scar had to have a good story, and this one just didn't seem good enough, granted as a wish by an ally. She wanted her first wound to be from an heroic act, felling the enemy of the Lion or protecting someone else. Like Miu.\n\n\"...I think I'm fine like this, Kitsu-sama. But thank you anyway. For the healing, and... Well, this.\" She bows low, touching the floor with her head.\n\n||"
}
] | 228 | 3,290 |
430.16129 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "The trappings Lion Embassy's Dojo appeared a good fit given the clan it serviced. Led from the gates of the embassy, through a series of winding hallways, Rokugo Yuto was brought to it's doors by a servant of the clan.\n\nAs the doors opened Yuto would be greeted by a sizable room, enough space for 3-4 pairs of samurai to be sparring at once and not worry overly much about running into one another. Incense hung heavy in the air, burning from wall sconces that periodically punctuated the walls. One wall housed weapons, nothing of any overly fine quality, their purpose was clearly for practice, not battle. The same wall house a collection of bokken. One corner held a collection of dummies for those that wanted a target but did not have a partner. Near the entrance were a collection of mostly empty daisho racks mounted to the wall, their purpose clear as Yuto would sight the mismatched pair that belonged to Hotaru.\n\nThe woman in question was off to the side closest the racks of weapons. She had a short bokken slipped into her obi and was practically gliding through a kata with a katana-length one at what appeared to be a steady, slightly leisurely pace.\n\nUpon hearing the door open Hotaru finished the follow-through of her strike before pausing and turning her gaze, her body following the motion in turn, towards the door.\n\nThe servant who had opened it would bow to her as Yuto entered. \"Rokugo-sama is here for you Matsu-sama\" She intoned. \n\nHotaru would regard the woman for a moment, \"Hanami-san was it?\" She queried. She was still trying to put names to all the faces here.\n\n\"Yes Matsu-sama.\" The woman confirmed.\n\n\"Thank you then, Hanami-san. You are dismissed.\" And with that Hotaru turned her attention away from the help who made their swift exit, closing the door behind them, and addressed Yuto.\n\n\"Yuto-san, I am glad that we could arrange this.\" The samurai-ko noted, bowing slightly deeper to the man than she might have an equal, he was of higher status than her afterall."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Being welcomed into the Lion embassy was a great honor as the humble samurai held his head high and kept composure sharp. Being escorted through the embassy and reaching their dojo, he'd have an appreciation for how well it was being kept. Although his eyes lingered he followed behind the servant just a few paces, that was until they reached the dojo. \n\n\"Excuse me.\" Speaking as he stepped into the room, where he then bowed to Hotaru, the one who invited him here. He let Hanami and Hotaru finish speaking before he turned to the servant, giving them a polite nod and wave as they let themselves out. \"Thank you Hanami-san.\" He said meekly. Turning back to Hotaru he gave another bow, he was a very polite man. \n\n\"I'm glad we could arrange this too, Matsu-san, I've looked forward to heeding your wisdom with the sword, and perhaps sharing my own.\" \n\nThe Rokugo wore a white kimono that bore the red scorpion mon on the back, matching it with his black hakama and red silk obi. It was a relatively simple attire unlike his overly formal wardrobe usually worn. Today he didn't wear his mask to cast a veil over his features, instead it was tied to the back of his head, above the long dark hair that fell to the scorpions shoulders and below. What kept the mask from falling was a red headband worn over the forehead with the signature blue Bayushi symbol. The lack of a Haori and overall layers of clothing allowed the man's muscular stature to be noticed more. \n\n\"I didn't forget my promise of course, though convincing your Ashigaru to take my Uchigatana instead of my No Dachi was quite the discussion.\" \n\nChuckling as He held the large katana in one hand whilst his wakizashi sat on the right side of his hip, tucked in the dark hakama. His Uchigatana was being 'sharpened' as they insisted on at least taking one or the other. How he pulled that off was a miracle, though his trick wouldn't work unless it was done with the real deal. Placing his Wakizashi aside, he'd have stepped forward, offering Hotaru his No Daichi. \n\n\"Alright! Let's begin, figured I'd teach you the theatrical before we begin sparring.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Ah, I apologize for the guard. I did speak with them but Akodo-sama is indeed a more intimidating figure than I when it comes to their standing orders.\" Hotaru noted with an apolagetic nod.\n\nHer gaze sooned turned to the offered Nodachi though. Yuto would likely note that Her lips turned up slightly in the corners as her hands gripped the saya of the offered blade, supporting the weight of the thing as it entered her grasp. Her gaze was on the blade, testing it's weight and pulling the blade slightly from the saya to assess the things edge. There was.. A near reverence in how she handled the thing, she clearly held a great respect for a samurai's weapon.\n\nShe would look up to Yuto, clinking the blade back into the saya and passing it back to him so that he might demonstrate as she replied. \"I would be most agreeable to this course of action Yuto-san.\" Hotaru gave a nod, taking some steps back from him so that he had space. As she did so she commented. \"My eldest brother wielded a nodachi. I have a few younger that prefer the longer blades too. Never would I call any of them proficient in iajutsu though, let alone with their large blades. I have quite anticipated this, it is not often i find myself so wholly curious about a technique.\" Her words rang honest, and the excitement and eagerness she had was, while subdued to a proper samurai level, almost palpable in her tone, her eyes bright and watching him."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The scorpion had a very faint smile, mostly having a neutral expression that didn't exude any emotion. He tried to keep a positive front for the Lion, wanting to demonstrate and of course impress with what he'd been working on. Taking back the Odachi he'd step back, getting a safe distance as he didn't want any accidents. Though he trusted in his own discipline and strength to maneuver the blade with great control, despite its size. \n\n\"So the thing is, this technique is probably more suited to you than I. One must confess that my size and wingspan gives great advantage in performing Iaijutsu with the greater weapon. As you'll see now.\" \n\nHe got into stance, moving both arms forward as one hand placed onto the handle just underneath the tsuba. One foot was front and pointed at the opposition as the back foot was directed to his left. Twisting his front shoulder forward, he'd have pulled the large saya backward, whilst maneuvering his sword hand to strike forward. Just before the tip cleared the saya he'd have pulled it up, adding the extra momentum that flicked the blade outward, which would have enough force to cut whatever was in its path. Of course due to standing at a safe distance it'd be nowhere near Hotaru. Managing to successfully draw a Nodachi was hard, but his size made it no different than a standard katana. \n\n\"My size and wingspan allowed me to perform a standard draw no different from a proper blade. Of course I want to clarify this technique isn't meant for dueling, but to quickly get your weapon out in case of an ambush or when your servant can't draw the saya for you.\" \n\nHe'd have stood up straight, sheathing the Nodachi as the scorpion would offer it once more to the lion. \n\n\"I'd like you to try now, Matsu-San.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru watched his movements carefully, her gaze mostly watching the movement of his body, taking in the ripple of muscle under cloth. It was the body that moved the blade afterall.\n\nAfter he finished the demonstration she would nod at his words, closing the distance to take the offered nodachi. \"Thank you.\" She noted as she took it. \"The length of the nodachi has never agreed with me. The help required to draw has always been whats put me off. That and its unweildy nature.\" She left her commentary at that though, stepping back to bring the necessary distance between them again. It impressed though did not surprise the shorter Matsu that Yuto could draw the blade like a katana. His height certainly gave him the armspan to do so. Such a thing would not be as easy for her though, she knew.\n\nHotaru took her time to position herself, readjusting herself slightly a few times until she settled, seemingly satisfied into the stance.\n\nHotaru did not draw with the speed or even the practiced fluidity that he had. She was smaller, her armspan shorter and the distance she had to pull the saya back greater than his own. The samurai-ko moved with a purposeful measure though, her gaze fixed to a space ahead of her however, her attention was clearly internal, focused on her muscle and movements instead of the room surrounding her and Yuto's watching form. She did not watch the blade as she drew it, she had no need, when the blade would be free she would feel it. She would feel the tension, the weight as it wanted to pull the saya down forward. \n\nThis inward focus was the reasoning for her speed. Slow, methodical, measured, assessing. She clearly had trouble with the tip of the blade. Her draw made awkward as her armspan was streatched. She arched as he had though, rolling her shoulders out so the blades nearly touched as she pulled the saya back the last few inches, freeing the nodachi's tip. There was an almost inperceptable wince as she did so, like she was pained. She hid it well though. \n\nHotaru held the odachi out for a moment. It had been a while since she had weilded one. \n\nThrough the open sleeve of her kimono, Yuto might spot the muscles of her forearm bulge as she held up the blade, her gaze shifting to run along the edge of the metal as she nodded slightly to herself with a 'hm'. As she streatched out again to resheath the blade she looked to Yuto.\n\nThe blade sheathed with a final *Thwick* And Hotaru closed the distance between them, handing Yuto his blade back. \"As unweildy as the last time a drew one. I do not favor them for a reason.\" She noted."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Watching the lioness draw and perform Iaijutsu with the Odachi, there was something to commend. Though one could tell it required extra effort and much strength to do it. His eyes lingered to the woman's show of skin, admiring the strength and definition of the sword arm. While her size made it harder, the success in her efforts was worth congratulating. Thus he spoke up: \n\n\"That was a great performance Matsu-san! I doubt anyone else your size would have been able to adjust and clear the blade from the saya.\" \n\nTaking the sword back, he'd be able to demonstrate the draw being worked on. Though he had to acknowledge the ridiculousness of an Odachi, they were most preferred on horseback but Yuto was never one for such. While he was more proficient with the smaller Uchigatana, there was something about the No Dachi that lured him in. Perhaps because of its ability to create space, it did take advantage of his large attributes better than other weapons. Though he had yet to pick up something more practical like the Yari or Naginata. \n\n\"I think they're neat, though certainly meant for bigger people such as myself. Though you never know Matsu-san, you may find yourself needing the bigger blade more than the small one. I've yet to test if a spear is really better or not, so I can't say.\"\n\nHe began to step back, getting a safe distance once more, a smile now surfacing as his eyes didn't waver from the lions. The scorpion was rather excited to show off the technique, maybe even a shift in his mood could be noticed, feeling slightly more enthusiastic and energized. \n\nReaffirming his previous draw stance, one detail would be noticed, rather than facing the blade of the hefty sword upward for a regular draw, it faced down. Typically this was rare and only done for reverse draws, but for this particular sword it would be mandatory. Rather than pulling the saya back, Yuto had threw the handle forward, performing a throw draw as he'd grasp the back of the sword, the spine of the blade.\n\nIf the blade wwe positioned upward he'd have grabbed the sharp edge like an idiot. Thus showing the necessity to reverse draw it, after taking hold of the back side of the sword he'd then have drawn back the Saya. Due to positioning his hand and shortening the length of how much one would have had to draw, clearing the blade from the sheath was easier. \n\nPulling his sword arm back the scorpion's shoulders twisted, raising it in front of him above head for a quick moment he let go of the sword, recatching it so he held the sheath once more. Of course due to the angle and twist one wouldn't have easily noticed this. After successfully performing the technique the tip of the sword faced opposition. He held this position as he then spoke: \n\n\"You could attack after clearing the saya, or move to guard, it really depends on you.\" \n\nAfter explaining he'd align the blade's tip with its saya once more, letting the heavy blade fall in rather than slipping the cover back up. The loud thwick would ring as he approached the woman once more. \n\n\"It isn't the fastest but of course you wouldn't use it for a duel, though if you need to get it out quickly and protect yourself it'll do the trick. What do you think?\""
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Spears are useful. They have length but still maintain agility.\" Hotaru noted at his comment on the weapon so common amongst ashigaru. She spoke like she had a decent amount of experience with them. Hotaru seemed familiar enough with most weapons the Scorpion spoke of.\n\nThe Matsu's warm-brown eyes were not on his face as was polite for conversation though, her analytical gaze instead watching his movements as Yuto positioned himself. The technique was interesting and she could certainly see the dangers and the merits. \n\nAt his question, she comments, \"You hold the blade. It makes the draw easier but if you are not swift enough to complete it then a block would leave you weaponless, fumbling or forced to grip around the blade for leaverage. I am undecided on it's practicality but it is interesting nonetheless. May I try?\" Hotaru inquired."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The practicality of the technique was sure to be questioned, which he expected. One knew no amateur would be able to perform such a technique, luckily Yuto never got the feeling she was an amateur. Lions seemed to rise on every occasion, thus he offered the Odachi to her once more. \n\n\"It's no secret that an amateur would fail in using this technique, but you never once gave me the impression of being one.\" \n\nA genuine compliment as he let go of the saya and stood back, ready to watch and observe the lioness. Yuto was hoping she'd succeed in the draw, it was different from your stereotypical Iaijutsu. The Rokugo crossed his arms whilst watching. \n\n\"A humble tip before you draw. Since this technique is not meant to be used for dueling, holding onto the Saya after the blade is clear won't be mandatory.\" \n\nEven though the scorpion held the saya afterward he gave these instructions. An Odachi was a two handed weapon after all, and in a real battle you'd discard the saya quickly as possible. This is what led him to crafting this skill, in the event of not having a servant draw the saya, or being ambushed. A proper samurai would still be able to access their weapon. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Then you have good eyes Yuto-san. The only weapons I consider myself an amateur in are the ones that do not interest me and *Many* Interest me.\" Hotaru noted as she took up the blade once more though, this time, she held the saya within her right hand.\n\nThe Matsu did a few test flicks of the blade to get an idea for how much force would be necessary to clear the blade high enough from the saya for her to grasp. She then did a few more, getting a more controlled idea for the positioning of her fingers when she was to grasp. Throughout it was her left hand practicing going to grasp the blade and Hotaru's intent to use her off hand for the draw would be rather evident. \n\nContent she had a feel for the technique, Hotaru lowered the saya to a ready position and planeted her feet. With a smooth motion, throwing her body weight forward with the flick of her saya while keeping her feet planted to keep the momentum, Hotaru flicked the long blade out. Her left hand flew up to catch the blade but with a slight crinkle of her eyes Hotaru swiftly manauvered the blade to slide back into the sheath. She had had the momentum but had been timid with her grip, clearly moving with caution to not catch herself. \n\nResetting herself, Hotaru would wordlessly try again, her focus on her left hand this time instead of trying to follow the blade. She would manauver the blade so it met where she desired to catch it and, this time, she did. Her fingers gripping the blade well as she made to lift the heafty blade from the saya.\n\nShe removed it a great deal of the way, though, with a noted thinning of her lip and a slight pinch of her eyes and a minimal pause where she appeared to be adjusting her left shoulder, Hotaru made the decision to flick the saya off the rest of the way, letting it clatter to the floor as she moved reletively swiftly to take the blade properly in hand, though she notably shifted to grasp the tsuba so the weight was predominatly held through her right shoulder. After doing so, the thinning of her lip and eye pinching smoothed to her normal neutral. \n\n Yuto, having a decent eye, would note this and could perhaps speculate on either an old injury or Hotaru just being weaker on her left side."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Smiling at her comment, the Rokugo would watch the Matsu in awe. Truly he hoped the technique would work for them, observing her as she figured it out for herself. A testament to her skill, patiently acquiring the right finesse to perform the technique. It was very intriguing to see her attempt it with the offhand, though he never had any doubt. Yuto did notice the hesitation and slight struggle on Hotarus face, having not seen it when she drew the first time. Perhaps there was a reason for it, but he'd not linger on the irrelevant. What mattered is she was successful in her attempt. \n\n \n\nClapping his hands to give praise, the scorpion smiled brightly towards the woman. \n\n\"Impressive Matsu-san! It took me a night to come up with that technique and a few hours to successfully do it, you're truly a talented duelist. No one will be able to get the jump on you before the sword comes out now!\" \n\nHis positive words were cheerful and genuine, truly fascinated by the Lioness' hard work. Yuto moved to pick up the saya that was flung, holding the opening towards the woman so she could place the blade back inside. Afterward he'd set the weapon aside so it wasn't in their way, now inquiring. \n\n\"I suppose we can spar now, forgive me if I wasted time demonstrating the ridiculous technique. I just enjoy sharing with others.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"You have certainly not wasted my time Yuto-san\" Hotaru slid the blade into the offered saya with ease, giving a slight nod to signify her thanks. \n\n\"You flatter me though. It will certainly take some repitition before I would be comfortable enough to rely upon the technique. There is much risk to the fingers of the drawing hand with the motion if one is not careful and I can attest that cutting oneself is far from conducive in a fight.\" She steps back and gestures to the wall of empty racks where her own blades are set, so that he might find a place there to rest down the blade.\n\n\"Despite the risk though, I find the technique novel. It will be an interesting display for my siblings at the very least, when next we all congregate. With your blessing I would instruct a few of them on how to perform the technique, I know a few hold a preference for some of the larger blades. They would find it useful or at the very least, entertaining.\" Hotaru noted. Between her words it was clear that the woman would refrain from teaching others the technique if Yuto did not approve of her doing so.\n\n\"But, let us move on to the fun part of today\" Hotaru switched the topic, a grin forming on her face as she withdrew the katana-length bokken from where she had stashed it next to the wakazashi-length one in her obi. \n\nWith a gesture to one wall she stated, \"Help yourself to the bokken. If there is a weapon you would rather wield let me know, im sure we have substitutes for most things in the store.\" Indeed. Mounted along the wall in a rack were wooden variants of the katana, wakazashi and a few longer blades and polearms.\n\n\"You will have to forgive me if I am at all rusty today, Yuto-san, it has been some months since I last clashed with one outside the clan.\" Hotaru grinned. \n\nThe statement was probably true. It *Had* Been a while since Hotaru had crossed blades with another clan. Winter had been mostly dull with only a few notable times she'd had to draw her steel. The comment on being rusty though.. Hotaru would admit to herself that the statement was a blatant lie, though her exuberance hopefully covered any indication of deceit. Hotaru was looking forward to a fight but... She was aware that holding back would likely be a smart decision. Better for to appear rusty, she would be easier to underestimate then in later conflicts.\n\nExcitement was clear on Hotaru's face as she moved into a space where there was room for the two of them to face off. Even if she was going to be pulling herself back, she was still going to enjoy this."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Having racked the larger weapon, he eyed the wall of bokken, there was a large variety of weapon replicas. While today could have been an opportunity to learn something new, the man refrained from such. After all they were here to spar and see each other's might with the Katana. \n\n\"I wouldn't mind, after all the technique isn't some secret finesse to dueling. Simply a way to access your large blade in unexpected situations. My skill with the Katana is superior, but I like how the Odachi feels in my hand.\" \n\nHe said politely, approaching the wall of bokken he admired the collection. While certain things like a Yari or Naginata were tempting, having never personally learned those yet, he grabbed a Katana bokken. He held it in one hand, coiling his fingers around to get a grip. With a few twirls he adjusted to the weight just fine, the scorpion then moved back to the floor where they'd face off. Finding some amusement in Hotaru's comment on being rusty. \n\n\"A slumbering Lion is still a Lion. Ready when you are Matsu-san.\" \n\nOne thing she'd notice of the scorpion's stance is that it was rather unorthodox, as he held the bokken in just his right hand rather than both. Yutos right side was shifted forward, creating a narrow figure for her to hit, whilst providing longer reach. He had the strength and skill in order to maneuver the blade just fine with one hand, by no means was he underestimating the Lion. Having a slight grin, his eyes now focused on the woman. Glowing in excitement. \n\n|| idk how serious we're taking this but just in case Kenjutsu 6: Katana Emphasis, Athletics 5, and Defense 4: Unarmored Emphasis"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "As the word word 'ready' left Yuto's lips, Hotaru moved, cutting off the rest of his sentence with a bold and quick step across the distance between them, her bokken coming to bear in what promised to be a powerful side-sweep. \n\nWhere perhaps other's might keep a cool face during a fight there was an outward grin on the Matsu's face. It held perhaps too much teeth, and it's exuberance reached the Matsu bushi's eyes with a gleam that belayed her excitement for the charge. \n\nHotaru was coming in hot with the intent to put the man on a swift defense and control the pace of the fight.\n\nEven Hotaru's thoughts were grinning. It was not often she let herself over to the gleeful adrenaline high of a fight to just *Fight*. In truth, she tended towards a much more measured, cautious fighting style that tended to rely on reaction and sudden advancement than the more direct, overwhelming, reckless advance she was currently partaking in. That did not mean, however, that Hotaru did not enjoy occasionally letting loose and just charging and swinging. \n\nOn a level, sparring like this was liberating. She didnt have to think, she could just rely on instinct. But it was not a sparring method she undertook with live iron because.. More often than not, she got hit. It was fun though, and was typically how she approached sparring with bushi from outside the clan. If word got out she was another raving Matsu beserker, than when iron was drawn for real, the enemy rarely expected the measured predator they would receive.\n\nNone of these thoughts or considerations were of much concern at the moment though, not when she was bearing down on her opponent."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "His eyes widened the moment he sensed the Lion pounce, in the middle of his speech huh? Someone was unable to control their excitement, but that made it all the more interesting. As she came forward with a side sweep, Yuto stepped closer, still holding the bokken in one hand as he swung it forward. The scorpion made very good use of momentum and weight, clashing with her bokken as the loud smack rang through the room. While he himself was smiling, the face of contentment wasn't as obvious as the lions. \n\nIt was then he began taking steps back, as he let Hotaru's onslaught pursue him. His defense was tight and simple, leaving out unnecessary movements. Yuto specialized in utilizing weight and momentum, with his athletic ability it made certain impractical tactics, such as wielding a katana in one hand feasible. The Rokugo really just wanted to see her technique and physical ability, expecting nothing but greatness from the Lioness. Though the scorpion knew she had more to show him. \n\nThings would pick up as Yuto would kick his feet off the ground, putting great distance between him and the opponent. Extending his sword arm out, he'd create a radius of his reach. His movements would become thrusts and stabs as the scorpion would try to keep the lion at bay, how would she react? Despite the fire radiating from her body, was the Lion's mind calm and sound like water? They'd find out soon enough. \n\nEach quick thrust forward was like a jab, breathing during each strike. Primarily aiming for slots such as her shoulders, chest and arms. Precise and quick, making sure not to overextend himself to ensure one could pull back with enough time to react. Though one would easily decipher the scorpion was testing, having not gone truly on the offensive. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "As Yuto enforced a distance Hotaru was left circling at the edge of his reach. The distance the man's height gave his arm span was truly evident as his blade lengthened and extended his reach. It was an interesting predicament. One Hotaru had rarely, if ever, faced against a katana, such a set-up being more conducive to polearms. But polearms she had faced and Hotaru decided she would have to treat the circumstance similarly.\n\nThe fast-paced fire of Hotaru's rhythm lulled as she kept her distance. Her grin was no longer so wide, but it still remained as a close-lipped smirk as she took her time slowly pacing around the Scorpion. Her katana was held defensively, to ward off any sudden leap he might make. Every few steps or so she would change her rhythm, test his circle. A few steps forward and then a quick dance back, to test his reactivity. Harsh feints to see if he instinctively drew his blade back toward his body to defend his core. The occasional clatter of bokken against bokken, to test the strength of his grip, as extended as it was. It was clear the woman was no stranger to combat.\n\nHotaru lurked around him, circling like one might imagine a Lion would a hyena that had stolen it's dinner. It was a visceral feeling, to be watched by Hotaru. Her eyes gleamed and darted about his form, clearly seeking any evidence of weakness or an opening. It was an uncomfortable feeling of being watched, judged, preyed upon, that might perhaps settle uneasily in Yuto's breast. This calculated dance certainly seemed far more deadly than the reckless charge the woman had opened with and the woman seemed just as comfortable moving at this pace as she did her charge. || weakness? Lounging lioness. Intimidation:2|| \n\nHotaru circled and tested Yuto for a rough minute before she made a careful change in direction, shifting from an anticlockwise to a clockwise circle, her right facing him. In her head, she'd found the opening and could see it playing out. A cocky remark about 'two being able to play at this game', the drop of her left hand to her wakazashi-sized bokken in her obi, the lunge with her right arm forward, sweeping in a backstroke that promised to knock the man's bokken to his left, taking advantage of the weaker one-handed grip. It would open the way for her to dart in between, draw the wakizashi, and plunge it into his the side of his chest, into a lung. She wouldn't have to worry about his blade coming back around because he would be dead. *If this were a real fight*. But it was not and Hotaru had to restrain her instincts to do so.\n\n*I should have left the wakazashi bokken on the wall*, she mused.\n\nHotaru reigned the instinct in though and decided on a modified version of the plan. Widening her smirk and taking on a playful tone Hotaru began to speak, \"You're height is an asset Yuto-kun.\" Hotaru shifted her direction back. She would be swinging mostly with her left, which was never going to be as strong as her right, but it would be easier to push his arm outwards than across his body for what she had planned. \"But two can play one-handed\"\n\nWith that she lunged, starting the powerful swing with both hands and then dropping her right, letting the momentum carry her left arm crashing her bokken into his. Hopefully having knocked his arm out of the way, Hotaru would continue her quick footwork forwards. Her right arm was raised in a half-bastardised juijitsu block, ready to combat his left hand should it be a problem, but the blow to his body was coming from her foot as she angled it up and around to slam into his side. || juijutsu 2||\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The two danced around the room as Yuto observed Hotaru, anticipating how she would overcome such an advantage. She moved well, clearly having experience dealing with polearms. So far he merely teased with his blade, studying his opponent was key, his defense and tactics allowed him the luxury. One was key in not falling for the feints, there was only a set distance you could put yourself out there to not overextend. If that extension was reached it was better to commit to the strikes. \n\nThough her change in expression gave him a bit of unease, this feeling was used to excite him. Hotaru was clearly planning something, whatever it was he'd take the full brunt of it. They were here to test one's skill and learn from each other, but the scorpion was always testing himself. \n\nYuto... Kun? Whether she truly said it or he imagined it, the words were perceived as enticing. He blinked a few times, feeling a shift in weight as he was distracted by... That. A slight blush came over his face, causing him to completely overlook her next comment. \n\nIt wasn't until the sound of their bokken clashing that the Rokugo was brought back to reality, his eyes widened with surprise. Her initial swing using both hands transitioning to one was impressive, most Samurai would have flung their swords across the room. She showed true discipline. He needed to counter somehow.. \n\nSeeing as she smacked his hand away, he'd have turned his body. With his back now facing the incoming blow, though there was a shift in her stance. Was she about to throw a kick at him? Well this took a turn! Once the kick struck his side, the scorpion wrapped his free hand around her leg. As he did, he spun, turning himself around as he brought the lioness with him. Bending his knee down to put her to the floor. She'd have lost balance, but his bokken held hand wrapped behind her back. Cushioning the fall as the Rokugo was now on top of the Matsu after the gentle letdown. \n\n\"Your fiery movements are an asset as well, Remind me to never meet you in a field of battle, Taru-chan.\" \n\nHe teased back with a smile across his lips. Though there came a pause, where the scorpion's eyes would meet the lionesses. Finding himself entranced by her features. Before his face moved closer the man snapped himself out of it, pulling himself and the woman back up to their feet if Hotaru accepted his hand. \n\n\"Let's continue, you'll find the Scorpions thrive the most against unpredictable opponents.\"\n\nHe complimented her as Yuto got ready once more. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "As her back was slammed into the dojo's ground, a grunt of pain escaped her breath as the nature of her right leg being extended meant that her left shoulder took the brunt of the fall. Pain blossomed there, the nerves twinging as they were want to do, a testament to the damage she had sustained. The Matsu was intent on not letting the blasted thing ruin what was turning out to be a fun time. \n\nWhere the grin had briefly falled, Hotaru brought her lips back up into it as a below of laughter rose from her chest. *'Taru-chan'* She hadn't heard someone call her that in a *Long* Time. She opened her eyes from her laughter to find him... Giving her a look she'd only really gotten from women she'd bedded before. Yuto pulled back before the rising blush could really tinge her cheeks though. \n\nHotaru pushed down the awkwardness she felt in the moment with humor, grinning at the man as she accepted his hand up. \"Reminding you Yuto-san, would be completely contrary to the point.\" She did not overly emphasize the -san, but she hoped its presence would be enough to tell the man she had been teasing in the moment to throw him off, which she had clearly succeeded in doing. Still though... Ugh. She'd complain to Miho about it later.\n\nHotaru never stopped in on place to indicate the start of their second bout. Instead, she kept a polite starting distance from him, pacing in a slow, wide circle around him. She one-handed the bokken in her right hand, rolling that shoulder out before rolling out her left, though she seemed to linger longer on her left. As she did so, she spoke, that fiery grin on her face and her eyes sharp with humor.\n\n\"There's a few quotes I favor from *Leadership*. One that comes to mind at this moment reads as follows, *' There are many ways of disrupting the opponent's balance. First, attack his spirit with your voice. Then the blade follows shortly after.\"*. Perhaps you should read the volume some time? Clearly you could learn from it's lessons.\" A friendly jab at the Scorpion-Lion debate over * Lies* And *Leadership.*\n\nThe samurai-ko was clearly enjoying herself and, as she finished speaking, she stopped her movements, pulling into a clearly more defensive stance. \"I wonder if you can hit me if I'm not recklessly running at you? Hm??\" The challenge was clear, Hotaru wanted him on the offensive this time.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "After helping her up, the man laughed at her comment. If they were on a field of war together she surely would say something! Right? Well no matter, they would reassume their stances and begin to circle one another once more. Yuto readjusted his grip on the bokken, giving it a twirl to assess how he'd attack. Watching her shoulders, Hotaru showed some hesitation in her left side. He'd focus on her right, while the scorpion could take advantage of weakness, there was no fun in it. His eyes slightly widened when she spoke about Leadership, having never read it himself the scorpion took some interest. Maybe he could get a copy of the book? Granted he never bothered to read lies either, he'd get halfway through a page before snoozing. \n\"A wise strategy that certainly proved true today Ru-chan. I see the lion and the scorpion both share in the art of misdirection, only your execution is louder than ours.\" \n\nHe spoke the last line sarcastically, the two seemed to bring out one another's humor. Though little did the lioness know she was bringing out something else in the man. Shaking his head, he'd agree and entertain the woman's challenge. \n\"I suppose we'll have to find out!\"\n\nHe then rushed forward, with his right side facing forward and blade in front. The Rokugo narrowed himself to become harder to strike. With his size and strength the man could maneuver the bokken without difficulty, allowing him to be quicker and more fierce in his blows. He opened up with another thrust, before pulling back to his left side and engaging in a horizontal swing. The blows were focused on her right side, being clearly evident he didn't take advantage of her injury. Anticipating her to block or avoid these attacks, Yuto was mostly just poking fun at her. Though he'd soon get serious.. Had she successfully defended those as he assumed she would, he'd pause briefly to speak between engagements. \n\n\"You'll find I'm capable of doing a lot of things to you!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru dodged more blows than she blocked. Her body simultaneously moved away from his bokken while her arms still moved to account for the attacking wood if she did not move in time. This did somewhat allow Yuto to move Hotaru about the room, but any conscious action to try saw the woman rooting herself and just blocking blows as they came. She would not move unless she wanted too, seemed to be what her body was telling him.\n\n \"Oh? And what *Things* Might they be?\" She asked in reply to Yuto's query, her gaze never leaving where it was watching his body for the next blow. The easy smile on her face shifting to a smirk as her voice took on a mischevious, letting herself fall into the baited question he had asked.\n\nShe made no move to lunge at him, but the movement of her eyes across him quickened, maybe she was looking to interrupt him again?"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "As they danced about in the room, a smile covered the scorpions face. The two were enjoying themselves and just having fun, but Yuto of course had the ulterior motive of impressing. Though part of him felt content just watching Hotaru move, despite the mans smile his eyes were that of a wolf on a hunt. \n\nIt was then the Samurai gripped the bokken with both hands, showing he was going to start implementing some effort. Stepping forward, he lunged, boasting great athleticism. This first swing was aimed at her Bokken, Yuto wanting to display just how much he could really output into his strokes. Had her grip not been tight or handling the weapon with two hands, he'd have sent a rushing vibration through the woman with the loud smack. For most people, the bokken would've flown out of their hands. \n\nThough he made absolutely sure to hit her sparring weapon seeing as the scorpion had no intentions of hurting Hotaru. Like an unstoppable force he moved forward, pressuring her with more devastating power as he'd aim to make the lion fall back, pushing her into the wall. Putting his bokken forward, he pressed it against hers, entering a sword lock. Had her back finally been pushed into the wall, the Junshin would look down with a smile. What it radiated wasn't arrogance or another overconfident feeling, but a pure sense of fun. \n\n\"Telling you would be completely contrary to the point! In most fights due to my capability, I just poke fun at my enemy. Usually I never have to try outside of overpowering them with strength. If you want me to show you, you're gonna have to work for it!\" \n\nHis tone was that of a teasing one, part of him wanted to provoke the woman's wrath and see what she was really made of. As they went on and on in their sparring, Yuto slowly began to admire Hotaru. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru's easy grin fell somewhat in concentration as Yuto went full out on her. Her lips remained quirked up though, that excited light still shining in her eyes as she met Yuto's bokken blow for blow. The power he was exhibiting was not unimpressive. Raw strength was something Hotaru could appreciate but it was also not something she was new to dealing with. Her elder brothers had both been strong and behind their blows had always burned the fires that lit the Matsu berserker's, even if their full brunt never bore down on her.\n\nIt took a handful of met blows and a few deft steps away from sweeping blades for Hotaru to pick up that she was being herded towards a corner. It was the one true disadvantage of indoor combat. Outside, waging war in crop fields, one could be moved about a battlefield theoretically forever and never end with their back to a wall. Such battlegrounds had their own hazards though that made them equally as deadly. \n\nHotaru would have liked to pretend that she had a choice in where she ended up against the wall, but such lies would be a disservice to the prowess of the man before her. It was true though... That she was not giving her all as his words implied. Maybe it was arrogance and pride? Or perhaps it was simply her cunning that made her certain that a proper bought with the arguably less-experienced man would probably be a hard but undoubtful win for her. Regardless... She was unlikely to find out if such beliefs were flawed today. She valued surprise more than she did the pride in a win.\n\nHotaru was holding back Yuto's bokken in a solid lock though, even as her back met wall. He was strong, the thought rose, as their eyes were locked over their blades. But one needed a great deal more cunning to properly corner her. \n\n\"Work for it?\" Hotaru chuckled in response to his statement, the grin reforming on her face, though her breath certainly indicated the strain she was under given the leverage his height gave him in the bladelock. \"Hardly a difficult thing when you provide me with such great opportunities Yuto-kun.\"\n\nThose words were the only warning Yuto had before a foot was swiftly coming up for his chest, Hotaru utilizing the weight of herself against the wall as leverage to steady herself for the kick.\nIt had the risk of leaving her off balance, but he had no arm free this time to block the blow and dropping even one from his bokken risked her own winning the deadlock. Hotaru was hoping to wind and distract his focus enough to slip to one side along the wall and dance back behind him to back into the open space of the room once more."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "While the kick wasn't something unexpected, due to the two being so close pressing her against the wall, he'd have no way of dodging it. Thus the large scorpion let out a notable oof as she kicked him back. He stumbled, quickly regaining his ground as the woman proceeded back into her usual stance. It seemed their dance was long from over, though a smug sigh came over him. He chuckled but found it in him to call the woman out. \n\n\"Your tactics reflect that of war, I've no quarrel with your antics, but I'm left disappointed Hotaru-chan! It seems the opportunities I impart to you are all the Lioness can manage!\" \n\nHe spoke so cocky it was hard to believe the man was being serious, he wasn't, but these words were meant to pump the woman up. Wanting her to show her skills in Kenjutsu, feeling she simply toyed around. \n\n\"Perhaps we'll stake something on it! But what... Hmm, I know! If you can land a proper hit on me with your Bokken, I'll tell you a personal secret of mine, hmm? It ought to be fun.\" \n\nTaking a breath, he opened up once more. The weight of his step making the floorboards beneath them creek in anticipation, Yuto moved forward. Going back to his aggressive tactics. With his stature, he favored downward strikes, seeing as the Bokken replicated the forward heavy Katanas. He'd purposefully lag between hits to provide the woman an opening, had she not taken it, he'd have pushed Hotaru back to the outskirts of the room. Making her circle the edges. \n\n\"They say you can learn of the opponent through the clashes of your swords. You're telling me a great many things..\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "\"Oh? Secrets huh? I'm amused you think me so easily tempted or spurred by taunts Yuto-kun, but perhaps I shall play your game.\" Hotaru mused, humor twinkling in her eyes as she continued to remain on the defensive.\n\n\"You are right though.\" Hotaru would speak between blocks and dodges, as she lets him force her back to the edges again, \"That one learns much through a spar.\" She spins out of the way of a hit, her bokken just glancing his own to ensure it could block if she did not move fast enough. \n\n\"For example, you hold within a great strength, one that requires focus and strain to block, but you are used to weaker opponents, that is why you opened one handed.\" Hotaru had met him blow for blow previously, only truely dodging away from him when she anticipated not being able to block his harder blows. Now though.. As she was nearing the edge of the room once more, she was moving more. No longer purely blocking or dodging but a combination of the two. As his bokken descended, hers would move to meet his, but the blows would be glancing, merely enough to slow his momentum as Hotaru's feet shifted to twirl or side-step away. No longer did she only move back, getting easily pushed to one side, but she moved around him in ways that forced him to turn and rapidly change direction. Hotaru forced him to chase her with his blade.\n\n\"But I wonder perhaps,\" Hotaru mused between breaths, \"If you can keep up.\" She grinned, her bokken intercepting another blow, though this time, as she span to her right, away from his blow, her back turned to him in her spin, as she dropped her left hand from the bokken's handle. She used the extended reach of her right arm, to push back and slow his blow. Her left was reaching down to her waist, where the shorter bokken lay. She would draw it as she continued her spin around his left side, her bokken pulling away from his own. \n\nThe shorter bokken was being drawn to clash into his side. There was certainly time enough for him to block if he was quick about it.\n\n|| Hope the imagry for this makes sense. If it doesnt dm me and ill try to clarify."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "He baited her in, and there was no escaping now. Amused at her decision to entertain his play of secrets, desiring the Lion to go all out. Though he'd be lying if there wasn't an ulterior motive, the lion would find herself as the Scorpions prey. She became more nimble implementing spins into her technique, bold, but confident.. Her analysis of his fighting, and why he opened with one hand was spot on. Being here in the city the Magistrate had not found a match, hoping he had.\n\n\"Typically one hand is enough for most people's two. Though I make exceptions for those I find... Special..\" \n\nWhen he pushed her back to the edges of the room, something special happened. As he continued to admire the woman's more graceful movements, she did something very cunning. Maneuvering out of his blows path to draw upon her other Bokken, one more reminiscent of a Wakizashi, capable of being drawn with one hand. While he could have quickly exploded to avoid or dodge the strike, the man smiled. Bracing himself he took the hit with no hesitation or movements to counter, the Lion would have caught this. \n\n\"Ooo! Good job! You're quite resourceful!\" \n\nHe said teasing once more, but continuing. \n\n\"Well, I suppose since I made the wager I ought to honor it. Ready to hear the secret? You better keep it!\" \n\nLeaning forward, he put himself at eye level with Hotaru, never breaking his gaze away. With his face coming closer, he'd have smiled, it was rather smug. \n\n\"I want you, Ru-chan. So don't disappoint..\" \n\nHe chuckled to himself, moving away as the samurai would take stance once more. Had she been thrown off guard by his seductive comment, he'd have initiated once more by giving her a soft bonk on the head. It was really just a tap, hoping she'd show more interest and desire to really go at him. Besides, they were both teasing one another, so she couldn't fuss over such words! \n\n\"Get ready!\""
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Matsu Hotaru took pride in the decade of summers she had survived. Part of why she had lived that long was most certainly her capacity to keep her face despite taunts and losses on the battlefield. It had been a long time since a bushi's words had actually given her pause. \n\nThis was hardly the first confession of lust she had received mid-spar, and Yuto's expression was indeed one of lust. Perhaps it was the fact he was a man, Hotaru didnt quite know. The confession shocked her though stopping her in her tracks. The samurai-ko could not hold back how her eyes widened and her cheeks tinged red. \n\nHotaru didnt know how to even begin processing such a bold declaration, let alone compute how to respond!\n\nIt was the vision of a bokken coming down for her head that snapped the Lion out of her shock as instinct took over, pulling her shorter bokken up to block. ||Fire emphasis: quick reflexes||\n\nIt was like time suddenly started again for her as she brought her gaze to lock with Yuto's under the block. Her Matsu blood flared in her chest. She was not some tender rose one judged worthy and expected to own! She was a Matsu! And if this *Man* Held any desire for her, it was on him to prove himself worthy to her!\n\n\"Do you think me a prized koi? To be simply owned if I am judged worthy?\" Her words were heated, her gaze sharp. Whatever his response Yuto would know his answer would be judged.\n\nHotaru slid her wakizashi, catching the length of his bokken against it's tsuba, wrenching the wooden katana out, away and down from her body in an arc, following up with a slash of her katana towards his stomach. \n\n|| im just gonna use katana and wakizashi cause its easier with both bokken in her hands XD fucking bastardised niten FTW."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The expression she made was adorable, if only he could save it on a painting. Well actually Yuto did recall him meeting an Artisan.. But anyway! One's words did exactly as he wanted, stirring up the woman's emotions so she'd give it her all. Hotaru wouldn't get away without truly coming at Yuto for blood! Not that they were using real swords anyway. \n\nWhen she blocked the first hit, he smiled. Now the lioness was back in the fight! Though the scorpion had certainly provoked a formidable wrath. Her words were filled with passion and anger. Hotarus gaze shot just like an arrow, but the scorpion was here for war! \n\n\"Uh oh, Ru-chan is mad! I'm in for it now!\" \n\nHe teased once more, preparing himself for what was to come. As she pushed his bokken away, the man knew the true strike was coming. Fighting an opponent with two swords was a challenge, that is if you didn't know what you were doing. He leapt backward, just barely escaping the range of her bokkens tip. Feeling much more conviction behind her strikes, but the scorpion didn't forget what kind of spar this was. She had played dirty from the beginning. Hotaru couldn't be mad if the treatment was returned. \n\n\"Prized Koi? Don't be so down on yourself! Though You're certainly a prize. That face you made was too cute to be a Koi!\" \n\nAfter his tease the man went in. He jabbed the bokken forward, wanting to anticipate which she'd block first. Upon the first flinch of a muscle he'd smack the defending weapon away, as he'd make another thrust to her chest. The scorpion kept his distance with superior wingspan and the extension his bokken gave. As things heated up the Rokugos smile widened, embracing the flare of battle. \n\n\"Hmm, okay! Let's wager something else, this time on the condition that I hit you!\" \n\nHe knew she probably would be too mad to agree, but he was on a roll now had he successfully gotten into the lion's head. Yuto certainly wasn't going to stop now, not that he ever knew when to quit. Squinting his eyes, a more aggressive smile came over him, thrilled at the opportunity. Looking like a predator soon to feast upon prey. \n\n**\"You better grit your Teeth!\"** \n\nA warning that his fury was soon to come. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru didn't pursue him, letting Yuto's step away from her bokken gather distance between them. As he twisted her analogy back on her, likening the proud Matsu to being \"Cuter than a koi', her lips curled in a snarl of disgust.\n\nThe teasing tone mattered little to Hotaru. Yes, they had made fun during their spar but this topic was one that genuinely pushed the wrong buttons. Hotaru had warned Yuto with her tone and this was how he answered? Hotaru quickly found her anger fading into disappointment.\n\nThe man In question gave her little time to recompose though as he came to swing at her again. She blocked the initial blow with the better positioned katana this time, as it was knocked away she brought the smaller wakizashi back up, catching the blade on the tsuba thrusting upwards. She could not block his blows one handed, but she could continue to redirect them.\n\nHis audacity to strike up another 'wager' lit some of that fire in her again. Though it would not rage as hot as it had flared the first time. Hotaru was a Matsu and is surely surprised no one whenever her anger was stoked, but the flames were always easier to put out than in her siblings and, for now, the fight was starting to leave a bitter taste in Hotaru's mouth. Her dissapointment was winning out over her anger, draining the joy she had held at the start of the fight. Yuto's continued expressions followed that of a boy in lust just wanting to win the prize his gaze had set upon and that held not interest for Hotaru who wanted an equal first and a man second.\n\nPerhaps that was why all her lovers till this date had been female? It was easy to stand on equal footing when society already ranked you together.\n\nHotaru's face shifted to one of cold focus. Irritation rang through only in her eyes but it was far from the raging inferno it had been mere seconds ago. She would swing back at him with her shorter bokken still raising his blade, putting her weight into the swipe as she used the momentum to carry her past and around Yuto. She cared little for the bokken hitting, the purpose was to distract his blade as she swiftly gained distance between them. \n\n\"You disappoint me then if you truly believe as such.\" Her words ring out in response to his own. Hotaru resheathed the wakizashi in the moment she spoke the words, bringing both her hands to bear on her larger bokken. It was a tactical decision, Hotaru would rather have the strength of her full grip against Yuto's blows, but the sheathing of the weapon could easily be taken a number of ways, particularly in the wake of her words."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "She was certainly mad now, had he gone too far? Most likely, but they were in the midst of battle and one wouldn't interrupt this for the world. Finally what he wanted was here. After she came forward lining her shorter bokken to smack away his, he stepped aside just barely avoiding the next. Conviction was behind her strikes, truly feeling the weight of their spar. Yuto wasn't a fan of using Bokken, feeling they didn't show one the gravity of their actions, for they took away the consequences.. \n\n\"If one wants to know what I believe, they should focus on the actions of my sword rather than the distraction of my words. Matsu-san.\" \n\nIt seems his words had truly inflicted a wound upon the Lion. Had her pride been hurt or her honor? One couldn't tell, at the moment Yuto was focused. She transitioned back to using one sword, did she want to focus or fall back? Two swords wasn't always better than one, but how this would play off was interesting. Yuto wasn't foreign to duel wielding, but it was situational, he felt the Lion athletic enough to keep up with and that was a testament to her own skill. \n\nNodding his head, one's expression then changed. Losing his smile completely as he stepped forward. In an instant the mood shifted, as one could feel the scorpion no longer teased. Rather, he focused on the duel itself. He swung once more. This time opening up the engagement with an upward swing, coming from below. While it was certainly risky he gauged the distance properly, if one didn't dodge there were only a few ways to block. He counted on either option. \n\nHad she successfully blocked or dodged, the man would transition immediately into a downward strike after bringing the bokken overhead. Yuto was an explosive fighter quick to take the opportunities and openings. One thing to say was the man possessed an aggressive nature, fighting like a madman using his emotions as a source of power. Yet there was no absence in his technique. What would the Lion do now? Would she seek to draw the match out or end it swiftly? \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "Hotaru sought to end things. She had spent most of their time dancing back and forth playing predominatly defensivly but now, fueled on by her anger, even as it dissapated slightly, Hotaru would harness it to embolden her strikes towards Yuto as she went on a very fast, agressive offensive.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Her aggressive attacks certainly didn't let up, it seemed all the enjoyment from this bout had been stripped clean. With a disappointed sigh, there was a moment of self reflection. Yuto was not used to antagonizing others; only using this tactic to tease and force the Lion to fully exert themselves. It was probably best he ended things and not overstay his welcome. \n\nThe scorpion went on the defensive, having to put some effort into keeping her bokken at bay. With the state she was in one smack was certainly gonna give him a bad day. Though the Rokugo had a plan. Continuing to step back, he'd have his back towards the wall. Anticipating the next blow to come. \n\nAs she delivered her next ruthless attack, he'd have extended his arm outward. Grabbing at her wrist, though only before taking the blow to his side. Letting out a small grunt, he'd have squeezed down hard to rip the weapon away. Upon disarming her Yuto spoke, \"Okay, Okay! I've learned my lesson, you're the Victor here Matsu-san.\" \n\nHe stepped back, giving them space between one another. Entering a deep apologetic bow. Continuing with his words, \"Forgive my verbal contraventions. I only sought to see you at your best, my words were only meant to satirize you. They were not all genuine. You're an astonishing duelist—and the way you move has left me enamored, Matsu-san.\" || Etiquette 4 Sincerity. He's truly apologizing thinking he angered you || \n\nComing back up from his bow, he now caressed both the bokken in his arms as if he were hugging them. Tilting his head to the side, the Rokugo pressed his cheek into where the handle would be. Though his eyes never left the lioness. \"If I have not squandered things between us, I'd like to show you my appreciation. Would you like to have dinner with me sometime?\" He asked politely, with a remorseful look in his eyes. The man was sincere, too honest, almost like a dog."
},
{
"author": "valvren",
"message": "The Matsu gave a huff but nodded in a clear acceptance of the halt. She would take back the bokken and gave him her attention as he spoke his platitudes. \n\n\"You will learn Rokugo Yuto-san, that there are very few things that so genuinly piss me off. Being relegated to the likes of a trophy wife or prize is one. I am Matsu and I am no one's prize but my own.\" Her gaze was as stern as her voice serious. \n\n\"This was a friendly bout, I did not come into it unexpectant of jibes, it is the nature of such things. But when I give warning know now that it is because you tread to close to a line. I will accept your apology, under the understanding that it had better be a good dinner.\" Her tone lightened towards the end, the harsh edge beveling out into something more friendly.\n\n\"You fight well though. I should like to do this again some time.\" She intoned."
}
] | 437 | 13,335 |
387.571429 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "*Once more.*\n\nThere was no real necessity to go over preparations again, but Miho wouldn't have been Miho if she didn't check things until precaution became futility. Predictably so, everything was how she had predisposed it to be, and she allowed herself a moment of self-satisfaction before dismissing the ashigaru back to his men.\n\nWhen her lord had entrusted her with welcoming the new Phoenix, she figured that a simple tour of the embassy would have been enough, but it was in her nature to go the extra mile, and the mile after that: the samurai she was welcoming was a captain of the Phoenix guard in the city, a fellow leader of men, and she should treat him as one. She had arranged for the two of them to assist to the daily drills of the ashigaru in the embassy, so that he may observe how the Lion still keeps their troops in fighting shape while in a peaceful setting. Granted, he probably didn't need lessons if he had been assigned to such a delicate post, but it was a way to establish a connection without having to go through with the usual dance of socially acceptable topics; and, lastly, a message for him and his clan. The Lion is a clan of warriors, on the battlefield and out. If they wanted their cooperation, they had to accept this. \n\n*About six minutes to the scheduled arrival.* Miho stood at the gates of their building patiently, thinking more polite to greet him outside rather than have him announced like any postulant. It would also be interesting to see how punctual he was. That revealed a lot about one's character, at least according to her.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Asako Yamanosuke was nervous. \n\nHe had never had an encounter with a Lion Clan samurai before, let alone an ambassador from their clan. In all his previous life's duties as a tax collector, he didn't have much interaction with bushi from other clans, let alone dignitaries and nobility befitting of an assignment in another city. Whatever honors his lords were rewarding him for, he was silently questioning their judgement at this moment.\n\nThe day was pleasant enough. He could smell the scent of persimmons in the air as he approached the gates of the Lion Clan Embassy. Yamanosuke intended to arrive early as not to insult his host. He felt that a few moments before the intended hour was polite enough. He did not want to keep anyone waiting or giving the impression that he was not taking the invitation seriously.\n\nThe assistant tot he Ambassador, Asako Sanumo was kind enough to set this meeting for him, and he was certain that Sanumo-sama had called in some sort of favor to invoke the expertise of another clan to benefit himself and his new assignment as Taisa. But why were they putting so much stock in him? What had he done to deserve the honor? Yamanosuke was feeling the pressure of his new station and the pressure of his own pride to succeed in his duties as captain of the guard. He hated to disappoint anyone, especially now with the stakes being elevated in his new political environment.\n\nYamanosuke approached the embassy and the attendants at the gate. He announced himself, \"I am Asako Yamanosuke, Captain of the Guard for his honorable lord, Shiba Iemon, and the Phoenix Clan here at Ryoko Owari. I have an invitation from Akodo Katsuhiro to meet with your noble advisors.\" \n\nHe bowed respectfully, and awaited the acknowledgement to enter the grounds of the foreign embassy. An exhale of steady breath, studied his resolve and focus. As the late morning sun shone on the gates of the embassy, they opened to welcome him into the jaws of the Lion."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "As the silhouette of the commander started to appear in the distance, Miho took note of his aspect. Pretty unremarkable, overall, but she actually preferred it that way: she was the kind of person that took solace in tradition, and Yamanosuke seemed the textbook definition of a bushi. Now, to see if his character matched. \"Greetings, Asako-san; I am glad to meet you at last. My name is Ikoma Miho, *Chui* Of this Embassy, and I will have the honor to escort you in our humble embassy.\" She bowed as well, going lower than the Phoenix. He outranked her, after all.\n\n\"Follow me, if you please.\" Overall, she didn't speak much. In the delicate world of politics, every word was a calculated risk, and those who let their mouth run freely risked to offend someone every moment. \"I did not have the pleasure to meet your commander yet, but I have heard great things about him from my lord. They play Shogi regularly.\" While maintaining the small talk necessary to not make this awkward, she led Yamanosuke deftly through the corridors of the building. The embassy was as traditional as they come, almost a stage prop for a Noh play, but the number of ashigaru patrolling its perimeter was quite over the normal standard. Wherever they passed, each of them saluted the duo, and Miho responded with a regal nod of her head. Clearly, she was accustomed to giving orders and seeing them carried out. \"I was planning to show you the zen garden,\"\n\nShe continued, \"Which your companion Asako-san was so kind as to help embellishing with his statue: but afterwards I was thinking about something a bit different. Our troops happen to be in the middle of their drills in this very moment, would you care to inspect them with me? The martial philosophies of our clans are greatly different, and I am sure we could both benefit from a different perspective.\" She presented the program of the visit with the cadence of a soldier presenting a report, as was her use. She was never good at appearing friendly, so she made up with clearness.\n\"But first, would you like some tea? The day is hot.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Tea would be most appreciated, Ikoma-san.\" Yamanosuke recognized that she introduced herself as Chui, and now outranking her, felt it prudent to address her as an equal. \n\n\"I am most pleased to meet you. If you would please extend my sincerest thanks to the Embassador for allowing you the time for this meeting. I know that my lord Shiba Iemon-sama also appreciates the outreach between our clans.\" Yamanosuke delivered those words as deliberately as possible, so they could not be construed as anything but sincere.\n\n\"I am please to see your garden, as well, if you have the time to spare,\" He continued as they walked. \"My lord will be thrilled to know that his statue has garnered so much appreciation. It would also be my honor to observe your troops for inspection. The structure and discipline of the Lion army are known to be second to none in the Empire. It would be a great honor to witness first-hand.\" He tried to deliver his words a bit more softly than her report-driven cadence. He was tense enough. Yamosuke didn't want Miho to feel the pressure of such a politically driven visit. It's evident in their brief conversation that a great deal of preparation and tact went into his presence here. He wanted to live up to expectation, but also wanted less of the military tension between the two of them.\n\n\"Please,\" Yamanosuke bowed. \"After you, Ikoma-san.\""
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "There were many warriors, even those used to high society, who suffered the compressed etiquette of court , but Miho was not among them; she had never been good at casual friendless, and the rules of society provided her with foolproof canons to stick to. \"Very well. Tea for two, please.\" The order was unnecessary: the tea had already been put to boiling the moment the Asako showed up, and it only took the time for the two of them to sit for the tray to show up. \"It is not much compared to your renowned Golden Needle brew, but I hope you will appreciate it still. We are a simple people when it comes to our cousine.\" Also because their huge army drained an enormous part of their crops, but that was neither here or there.\n\nShe allowed silence to fill the room for a little, as she brought the tea to her nose and then drank with a small graceful sip. It was a strong blend, meant to reinvigorate soldiers after a long day's march. She could certainly have acquired something more refined, but it would have contrasted with the message she was trying to give: these were the people the Phoenix planned to ally with. If they didn't like what they saw, the deal wouldn't have lasted long anyway. \"What was your post before this assignment, Asako-sama? I am certain you must have a history of glorious accomplishments, if your clans trusted you with such a delicate task.\" It certainly was the case of her and her lord. Besides military might, the clan had sent only those that were capable to navigate the treacherous politics of Ryoko Owari. She'd have to remember it, when speaking with Yamanosuke.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "A bold choice in tea leaves.\nDirect of flavor, invigorating to the senses.\nAlmost enough to wake one from slumber, Yamanosuke thought.\n\n*Direct and to the point*\nThis magistrate is not messing around. While pleasant enough, the thought had crossed his mind that Miho-san is all business. She has a job to do, and she's not about to let making friends interfere with her duty to her clan.\n\n\"An interesting tea, Ikoma-san. I have not experienced a brew so invigorating.\" Yamanosuke wanted to acknowledge the hospitality as directly, hoping to found some common ground.\n\n\"My post prior to my assignment here at Ryoko Owari was back home in Phoenix Clan homelands. Unfortunately, it does not hold any great stories or glory. I can only think that my lord back home appreciated my work ethic enough to raise my station to this assignment. I stand ready to serve the Phoenix Embassy and lord Shiba Iemon.\"\n\n\"My lord Shiba Iemon and his assistant Asako Sanumo appreciate the invitation and offer such introduction for a new Taisa. I am humbled by their favor and by your invitation, Ikoma-san.\" He took another sip of the simple, yet bold brew from his cup. \"Surely you have more important duties to attend to than hosting me this day.\""
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She simply nodded her head at the compliment about the tea. Exactly what one should say. \"One could say that is even more commendable: in war bushi have many chances to be promoted, but in a peaceful post that can only be achieved through everlasting diligence.\" She paused for a moment, finishing her cup. \"And I disagree, Asako-sama. To welcome an honored guest of our clan is more important than all which my daily routine entails. You would have done the same for my lord.\" Or so she hoped. It would be embarrassing for her clan if the Phoenix retracted their hand now, just as they were extending theirs.\n\nShe let some more time pass in relaxation, exchanging some more verbal pleasantries, and then, just as the tea started to grow stale, a servant appeared to whisper in her ear. She glanced at them for a moment, and then nodded her head, turning back to her guest. \"Our soldiers are lining up for the drill, Asako-sama. If you agree, we would now go to attend.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Hai, Ikoma-san.\" Yamanosuke bowed and let his gaze wander to the floor. He picked up some of the subtle details of Ikoma-san's garments. The suble flow of colors, the 'purpose' of the garment was evident: Nothing fancy, utilitarian, yet elegant in function. This is truly the way of the Lion.\n\n\"I am at your leave,\" Yamanosuke continued. He observed the servant deliver the news and leave the room. Even the heimin had direct intention. Perhaps there is much more he can learn from Ikoma-san and the Way of the Lion.\n\nShe seemed pleasant enough, he thought to himself for a moment as he collected himself from the floor. Could this relationship be more of intention and duty? She could become an ally to the Ambassador even more than she already is.\n\n\"I am no politician, Ikoma-san, but I do wish to express my humble gratitude with your invitation and hospitality. I have not encountered much from your clan and kin in my personal history, and I must admit, I have a very favorable impression, presently.\" Yamanosuke studied her a moment, to gauge her response. Perhaps he revealed too much of his hand too quickly, but he wished to attempt to put her more at ease.\n\nIf the Lion can be put to ease."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Miho stopped mid-pace, turning to look at the Asako once more. She had been trying to get a read of the samurai in front of her since he had gotten here, and finally she thought she had it: an Honest Man.\nNow, with this personal definition she did not just mean someone who told the truth (that was the minimum for any decent samurai) but one whose thoughts and words were the same. They would say what they mean, and do what they say. This was of course a noble behaviour and one that made dealings with them easier, but it also meant that they could be a terrible enemy if roused to anger, for they would find a compromise with one whom they despised a lie. Overall? Someone who would be a good Ally.\n\n\"As I have of you, Asako-san; in this City of Lies, a sincere man is a breath of fresh air.\" Her face remained as pleasant as a bush of thorns, but she meant what she said. With all the smokes and mirrors she had to employ every day, she was starting to feel like a Crane.\n\n\n-Outside, the embassy started to reveal itself for what it really was, the Lion's den. Indoors and in the inner garden, it was just like any noble estate, but here? Here a small training Field had come to life. Ashigaru in full armor hurried back and forth on a square of beaten earth, surrounded by the outer walls. Even in the chaos that followed a role call, there was some sort of order to it, a deeper sense of unity; from the lowest levy to the veteran bushi, every Lion soldier was taught that their individuality meant nothing compared to their fellowship. They would not fight as individuals, but as a true unit.\n\nUpon their arrival, the soldiers immediately slammed their spears on the ground and did the warrior's salute, until Miho put them at ease. She observed them for a long moment, checking for imperfections in their kits to be punished, but she was satisfied now to go on. \"Soldiers. Today is not the average training: with us stands our honored guest, Taisa Asako Yamanosuke-sama. He will join me in overseeing your drill, and I expect you to obey him as you would to your superior. Thank him for the time he is giving you.\" Again, the ashigaru performed the warrior's salute, shouting \"THANK YOU, SAMURAI-SAMA!\" Even Miho had to admit they were behaving well today. Perhaps she'd even reward them later. Perhaps.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke was honored to be introduced so - it was the first time he had been done so. His chest swelled with pride- pride in himself, pride of his newfound station, and pride in his lord, Shiba Iemon and his Phoenix Clan. An honest man- he had never been called such before. Yamanosuke digested it as a compliment. He intended to be so. \nHe bowed to Miho-san, and to the Samurai saluting his such. He raised his hand, as he did not have in his possession a tessen befit of the Taisa, and addressed the Samurai.\n\n\"Noble warriors,\" Yamanosuke began. \"It is you who honor me in showing me the meaning of duty. Showing me what it truly means to train as Lion. I can only aspire to learn from you all today that which I may take your sense of pride, your sense of spirit, back to my dojo.\"\n\nHe looked to Miho-san at his next remark, \"It is I who bow to you this morning for the invitation and the knowledge I aspire to take with me.\" \n\nHe took a second to pause, intentionally. He stood straight, took in a breath, and lead in a cheer, in hopes to inspire the men in front of him. \"FOR HONOR!\" Yamanosuke shouted, awaiting the response of the men. He raised a fist overhead in an effort to promote their response.\n\nThere was an awkward pause after his cry, but the men followed suit. Three cheers Yamanosuke raised to the men in the training yard. At the end of their third reponse, Yamanosuke gave an intentional nod of the head and looked to the seargants. \n\n\"Proceed, warriors,\" He bade them. He looked to Miho-san once again to gauge her intent and response to his presence here. He was hoping to stay and speak with those in the training yard, talk about preparedness and drills to run to keep the men sharp and at the ready. If there was any improvements to be made to keep every motion intentional, every effort to be productive. Secretly hoping to take away any techniques or strategies that he may employ to metter the members of his own guard. He's still learning, afterall."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Now, if this had been a gathering of bushi, things could have been more difficult. Alliances shifted quickly in this city, after all, and for all the reciprocal goodwill it would have been unwise to showcase the official techniques of their clan to outsiders. But these were only ashigaru, and there wasn't much they could do that wasn't common knowledge to any commander.\n\n\"We shall begin with basic drills, both for spearmen and archers. Then you divide in two teams and have a mock battle in honor of our guest. Your _bugyo_ will be the captains.\" The two bugyo, something alike low ranked drill sergeants, bowed in acceptance. It wasn't by chance that Miho had chosen two men known for their rivalry with each other; if against each other they would surely give all they had to win. A little competition couldn't hurt, after all.\n\nWithout further ado, the ashigaru began their exercises. The ashigaru assembled in a tight column and began running back and forth their square while holding their weapons. Those that wouldn't keep the pace were curtly reprimanded, but for those that accidentally hit or tripped their companions with their spears the punishment was even worse. Still, such happenings were not common: continous rehearsal had made it so that every man knew their place and were coordinated with the ones in front of and behind them. The two _bugyo_ remained at a respectable distance from the two samurai, barking orders every once and then, but Miho, curiously, remained silent. This warm up required no input from her, and besides, this wasn't her moment: it was time for Yamanosuke to show his quality, and the Way of the Phoenix. \"This is just the start, Asako-sama.\" One of the bungyo addressed him, with the strange mix of familiarity and respect of veteran ashigaru. \"They begin like this every time. From there, we usually go to basic weapon drills... But we'd be glad to follow your insights.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke realized he was in over his head a bit. He had no experience training men like this. He was a tax collector! \n\nHe was quickly brought back to his days at the dojo: the Drills, the regimen, the strict rules and learning the disciplines of Bushido.\n\n\"I see, bungyo-san.\" He passed over any misaligned intentions in his being addressed so directly. \"I do admire the Lion's tenacity in all aspects of exercise. I should only hope that my own contingent show such dedication to their disciplines.\" He bowed his head slightly, acknowledging his request for input.\n\n\"Perhaps we see the katas next? Do they know the bokken? My men would benefit greatly from such exercises. One cannot be too prepared, after all.\" Yamanosuke shifted in his seat slightly. He definitely felt uneasy about being in a position to make a mistake - to make a fool of himself or worse yet, a fool of the Phoenix at the invitation of the Lion.\n\n\"I'm sure that Ikoma-san has designs for what would be acceptable to showcase to a foreign captain.\" He bowed to give Miho-san a moment to process and acknowledge the situation for a moment. Surely, she would not want to cause the new captain any embarrassment..."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "The bugyo shifted awkwardly on their feet: probably, they weren't used to seeing their bare-bones, point-and-stab drills being equated to the kata of real bushi, and sweated at the thought of being expected to perform something beyond their competence. Thankfully, however, Miho stepped in to help both of them. \"There is nothing we need hiding from a trusted ally, but many of our unique stratagems are too complicated to go over for a routine drill. Still, we'd be glad to show you their kenjutsu fundamentals.\" She nodded at the bugyo, who was relieved of seeing the Ikoma ask something they knew, and they quickly translated the commanders' wishes into action.\n\n\"I am aware that this scene might seem unsightly to oursiders.\" She commented dryly, as the ashigaru distributed bokken to each other. \"Peasant soldiers training with swords, I mean. But we Lions believe that it would be foolhardy to deny them training with such a versatile and effective weapon, and also to never experience the purity of purpose that comes from having three feet of tempered steel in your hand. But it seems such explanation is unnecessary, given you proposed the idea.\" She wondered if the Asako's gesture had been truly spontaneous or if he had previously researched this fact about the Lion, but her previous impression led her to believe the former.\n\nIn the meantime, the common soldiers quickly forgot of their prestigious audience in the heat of the exercise: as Miho had mentioned, it was truly nothing special, just the basic patterns every bushi learnt the moment they stepped foot in the dojo, but they would kill regardless. And who knew, if one of them got really good at it... Perhaps they would even earn the right to carry a katana. \"This is what they can do for now, though I'd like to extend their skillset. If you would know how to do so, please ask.\" Anothrr little encouragement, and little push, at taking charge.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Of course, Ikoma-san.\" Yamanosuke commented on Miho's invitation as to how to better train the Ashigaru. 'This is why I am here...' thought Yamanosuke. 'How did I let her turn the tables on me so quickly?' he thought to himself.\n\n\"Clearly these men are seasoned in way which our Phoenix Ashigaru are not. I am impressed at their skill with the bokken.\" Yamanosuke bowed to Miho-san. He took note of their feet, their stance, their balance. He could easily recognize how well their fundamentals play at their skills. None of the men in the drills seem to stumble or hesitate over movement. Like the water cascading over rocks in a stream, the Ashigaru's feet found secure footing again and again.\n\nNearly mezmorized at their movements, Yamanosuke asked of Miho-san, \"My apologies for my blunt questioning, Ikoma-san,\" Yamanosuke turned to lock eyes with Miho and realign his focus to the conversation. \"Are the fundamentals of such movement something you have writings on? I can clearly see these men are prepared for anything and everything. If there are readings I can learn from, I feel that my men could be half as valuable as yours.\" \n\nHe let his gaze drift past Miho back to the exercises in the field, and found himself drifting. He looked to the attendants nearby, and asked for some water. \"Could I trouble your attendants for some water. Watching these men toil has parched my throat as if I were training with them.\" \n\nIf Miho had something tangible he could digest and read from, or perhaps even honor him by borrowing such text, surely his masters back at the Phoenix Embassy would see the direct value in such a meeting between their clans. It would also solidify his position as Taisa, with the Shiba Ambassador."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Before answering, she made a gesture to someone waiting in a corner, and almost magically a servant appeared immediately with a jug of water and a camp stool to place it on. No, the heimin wasn't that fast. Simply, he took it from the water supplies prepared for the ashigaru's break, as he had been instructed to.\n\n.\n\n\"As a matter of fact, I do.\" She said eventually, after letting Yamanosuke drink (and doing so herself; just because she hid it well, it didn't mean she was immune to heat.) \"I happen to have a little record of mine on our drills.\" This was not normal. Most lion officers mostly owned a few famous works like Leadership and the Book of Sun Tao, and didn't bother wasting precious parchment on menial informations they knew by heart: such writings were mostly owned by sensei and parents, to teach still green Lions. However, Miho was more bookish than she seemed, and one of the few luxuries she conceded herself was a small personal library of military history and tactics, both introductory texts and advanced tactical debates. It had cost an arm and a leg to have them copied by Ikoma scribes, but this way, if she was ever injured or missing in action , her subordinates would be able to do fine without her guidance. Was that overpreparing? Yes. Did it come useful once in a blue moon? Absolutely.\n\n.\n\nI'll have them brought to you right now...\" This time, the attendant took quite a bit to come back, for they had to choose which scrolls were safe to be read by another clan member. Eventually, they brought back a simple parchment in a plain scroll satchel, with the dull name of *Introduction to peasant training.* Mostly, they were things Yamanosuke would already know, but every once and then one could find the unique touch of a Lion author: for example, they didn't seem to ever consider the ashigaru as a single individual. They were a unit, a squadron, a division, and as such they had to learn how to lose their sense of identity in the heat of combat. The ashigaru had to be always placed in the same rank, surrounded by the same companions, under the same official; that way, they would a relationship with the rest of their unit, and draw courage from the spirit of the pack. And perhaps most surprising, despite the dispassionate tone with which they described calculated losses and wearing the enemy down in a wave of bodies, the book ended with a consideration of the importance of peasant soldiers. The humble ashigaru cast away the possibility of a peaceful life to join the army, and elevate themselves in the noble art of war. Bushi were stronger, faster, better equipped, and yet the ashigaru stood up to them nonetheless, with nothing but a bamboo spear and minimal armor; And even if alone they would always lose, together a thousand mice could very well kill a wolf. The commander that didn't learn to respect their ashigaru and their usefulness, would quickly find themselves in Meido, and not for a favourable judgement. \"Please, go ahead and take it for yourself, Asako-san. A gift from a commander to another.\"\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "With as much respect as Yamanosuke could offer, he bowed, and refused the gift several times. Miho, thankfully was insistent on the acceptance of the scroll.\n\n\"I am grateful to have such wisdom from you and your ancestors.\" He accepted the scroll and took another sip of water. The sun was getting higher and warming the turf on the training grounds.\n\n\"I would very much like to know about archery techniques, Ikoma-san. Surely your Ashigaru are skilled with a bow as they have training with all the weapons at their disposal.\"\n\nSelfishly, Yamanosuke fancied Kyujutsu himself, and had hoped to have a few moments on the pitch with some of the men to 'hone' his skills further. While he had no desire to train with the Ashigaru himself, he never relinquished the chance to noch an arrow and feel the rush of air past his chin as he loosed an arrow from bowstring to target. \n\nWhile the training session wore on, Asako Yamanosuke had expressed his thanks and admiration toward Ikoma Miho-san. \"While I'm certain you have more important duties to attend to, I want you to know that your invitation is appreciated not only by myself, but my lord, Shiba Iemon, ambassador to Ryoko Owari.\"\n\n\"While I am new to my post here in the city, I have been briefed. I am hoping to only occupy a bit more of your day without insult or inconvenience. I am curious as to what you know of the Thunder Guard. Have you had interaction with them directly and are they to be trusted?\"\n\nHe paused a moment, allowing a new breath to fill his chest a moment. He exhaled slowly, giving pause to examine her reaction as well as gauge her response."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "The Ikoma had relaxed a bit since Yamanosuke had introduced archery in the conversation; well, \"Relaxed\" In the same way a glacier in a sunny day is \"Warm.\" The men in the formation that were under her personal care were significantly better than the rest in Kyujutsu, the footprint of their commander, and maintenance training took almost as much time as shooting practice. For a moment, she was almost tempted to tie her kimono to her waist and join them as she sometimes liked to do, but it was not her place as a host.\n\n-besides, she soon had more important things to think about. Miho gave herself the time of exactly three breaths to consider the question. They were controlled by the Imperials now, so no harsh criticism, but they had also established a conversation on honest terms so far... Alright.\n\"They have a difficult task.\" She begins carefully, like a swimmer testing the sea's depth with a foot. \"Being asked to uphold the law in Ryoko Owari Toshi is like being sent to hold off an entire army with a dozen me. However, that does not excuse their failings. While the Scorpion owned the city, they watched the Cartels flourish around them and did nothing, or worse, accepted money to do nothing. No doubt, they were ordered by their lords to do so, but it is still unacceptable to fashion yourself an officer of the law while standing over a pile of the excrements you were supposed to clean.\" A pause. \"Thankfully, now Governor Otomo-sama has taken them over. I am sure she will be able to whip them back into shape, with the fairness her family is known for.\" Given the more than shady reputation of the Otomo, this last phrase was quite ambiguous, and probably on purpose.\n\n.\n\n\"I have not had the chance to speak with one of their number yet, but my kinsmen did; and from what they said, I would suggest caution. Surely those appointed by Otomo-sama must be only concerned about the Empire's good, but if you were to meet one who served under the Scorpion... I would advise you to consider watching your words.\"\n\nIt seemed like she was done, but then she looked abruptly away and added in a curt tone. The return to the socially approved opinion. \"Still, they are the city's law enforcement, and we must trust them to solve those problems we don't have the authority to act upon. At most,we can simply offer them our help.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Admittedly, Yamanosuke was grateful for the perspective. His own bretheren had not known much of the Thunder Guard, nor had they any reliable contacts to offer.\n\n\"I appreciate your candor, Ikoma-san.\" Yamanosuke replied. \"As being new to my post, I feel that I am still gathering my bearings and perspectives here in Ryoko Owari. It is much removed from my homelands, and I have to learn how to become a student once again.\" \n\nHe bowed to Miho-san once more and began to unleash his shoulder from his kimono sleeve. \"I would like to have the opportunity to feed some arrows to the wind, Ikoma-san. I feel I've learned much from you and your men today. For that I am grateful.\"\n\n\"If you would grant me the honor of training ever so briefly in your kyujutsu grounds, I would welcome the opportunity. The music of the han-kyu is a song that helps to calm my mind. I would be honored for your time and if you would so join me...\" His voice trailed off in an effort to illicit a response from Miho-san. \n\nYamanosuke did his best to stifle any smile that may have begun to form at the corners of his mouth. He had to remind himself he wasn't here to make friends. He did enjoy the feelings of being at a proper barracks around men training and focused on the arts of the warrior. It had been some time since he was able to train properly, after all."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She almost felt a tinge of compassion for the poor man; if she got this right, this was his first job as a Taisa, and they had sent him to Ryoko Owari. That was like being pitted against a kenshinzen on your first duel. _Either someone in the high spheres trusts him greatly, or he has rivals that seek to bring him down with false generosity._ Either way, she'd do what she could to make sure he grew into the role well. All a phalanx needed to break was one weak link, after all.\n\nShe was just beginning to think about how she was supposed to wrap this visit, when Yamanosuke advanced his offer. It took a little effort to not say yes immediately: she was not one to be led by her passions. First she had to consider if this was safe for the Lion's cause. *Training together is the way we do diplomacy at Shiro Akodo... And there is nothing that suggests this offer comes with ill intent.* After this split second of consideration, her answer comes out smoothly, as if she hadn't thought about it at all. \"Why, certainly, Asako-san. It'd be an honor to train with you. Allow me to prepare a suitable space for us.\"\n\nAt a few curt orders, the ashigaru scattered and cleared the view, leaving to their betters two straw dummies that were still unmarred by arrows, while another went gathering weapons and arrows for the pair; the speed of the whole thing, as well as the glances they exchange when their commander was not looking, suggested that there must have been a bet going over this occurrence. In the meantime, Miho tied down the upper vest of her Kimono with a practiced gesture, revealing a pair of muscular and sunbaked arms. Just by looking at her, it was clear she had dedicated her life to mastering the bow. \n\"Are han-kyu suitable to you, Asako-san? We could provide bigger bows, if they are more of your liking.\" Truth to be told, her favoured version was the dai-kyu, the heaviest variant, but she knew that was not very suitable for anywhere but a real battlefield.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Eager to put this visit behind him, Yamanosuke was glad to be on the field and now more at ease with the acceptance of his offer. He let fall his sleeve from his draw arm and said, \"Hai, Ikoma-san. Han-kyu is more than acceptable to my tastes.\"\n\nHe thought she must have known by now his lack of experience in such a role as Captain of the Guard. As much as he was being tested by his Ambassador, he was grateful for the advance in station as well as trust in his abilities to do well.\n\nHis trust in his host also blossomed, now that they were able and willing to grant his request. He found a sense of peace while noching and releasing arrows to the winds. The brush of fletching from his chin to the snap of the bow-string, it all helped to center his mind and forget much of the pressures of this visit.\n\n\"I must admit, Ikoma-san,\" Yamanosuke remarked between arrows jumping from his bowstring, \"I am impressed with your clan, your hospitality, and I respect your knowledge of Ashigaru tactics.\" He knew he had taken much of the Lion Samurai's time and resources, and didn't want to overstay his welcome.\n\n\"While I do not wish to cut my visit nor our meeting short, I do need to attend to my station.\" He stopped pulling arrows from the quiver supplied to him. He turned to Miho-san, so formally thank her. \n\n\"I am in your debt. Please extend my gratitude to your men, your dojo, and your superiors. I am most grateful of our meeting and the knowledge of your ways, Ikoma-san. If I could ask your attendants to bring my things, I will begin my trek back to my duties.\"\n\nHe wished he didn't have to stop. Miho-san's kyujutsu skills were remarkable, and he had enjoyed their paring across from the training dummies now beset with arrows. \n\nGrounded, now, and his sense of duty and his new responsibilites, Yamanosuke needed to also prove to his own clan his value and the value of this meeting between clans. Perhaps their wariness of the Thunder Guard would prove valuable to both houses."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "For the time they shot their bows together, Miho didn't speak more than it was absolutely necessary. This was one of the few things that was truly sacred to her, no less than her ancestors, and even when in the middle of a delicate diplomatic meeting she had to make an effort to not be carried away by the music of the bowstring. It was good, then, that Yamanosuke called a stop.\n\n\"There is no debt, Asako-san. We merely show the same respect you have shown to us. The Lion gives people back exactly what they have earned, good or bad.\" She couldn't tell him that, but in her mind she referred to their incoming attack to the Scorpion cartels. Perhaps, Yamanosuke would remember them when he saw the reckoning.\n\n\"Your baggage will be delivered to you soon. Thank you for your visit, Asako-san; I hope this won't be the last time we met.\" She bowed to the Phoenix Taisa, closing her eyes. This alliance wouldn't last more than their stay at Ryoko Owari, and perhaps not even that far. But for that time, she thought they could work together.\n\n||"
}
] | 393 | 8,139 |
256.833333 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "It was Miu who had been punching the straw dummy to mush in the early hours of the morning. Over and over and over. The red headed Lions manes had been tamed for once as they had been beautifully braided to the back of her hair. Leaving perhaps much more lethal whips flinging around than her normal hair would be. Her face is ever so determined. Her body had been protesting. \n\nThe Kitsu's clothing had been more revealing than they usually had been. Every single golden line on the body had been visible as the only thing that covered her torso were the overabundance of wraps and a sleeveless shirt over it. Other than the pants and the shirt the Kitsu had been free of clothing. \n\nThis left room for her injuries to be clearly visible. Her clavicle had been snapped in half leaving an incredible grand bruise. Many other injuries were visible. Even one on her forehead. \n\nHer wrapped knuckles were bleeding. The punches were loud and precise. Whoever wasn't out and about by now could hear the beating of the dummy. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Rin was taking a risk: she had been supposed to start training five minutes ago, and if Hotaru found her slacking off there would be hell to pay. However she couldn't just stop watching: unintentionally hidden by a straw dummy thanks to her small size, she watched in awe the Kitsu's training.\n\n*She's so cool...* Had she a more expensive vocabulary she could have probably expressed this sentiment with clear thoughts, but for now her mind simply summed up all her admiration in this phrase. She looked like a warrior of legend, gigantic, gold-mottled, invincible. While the shugenja powers were of course incredible to her, this was something she actually had knowledge of, and so she fully understood how impressive this display of strength was. Should she say something? Compliment her, ask her a tip? She really wanted to, but on the other hand she also didn't want to break her concentration. But even just starting her training now would be weird, it'd look like she had been spying on her this entire time...\n\nThankfully, she didn't have to make a decision. It was the dummy that did it for her, for as she involuntarily nudged it, the object's balance was compromised and the training equipment fell forward, hitting the ground with a loud thump. And leaving Rin exposed.\n\"K-Kitsu-sama! G-Good day, I wasn't- you were- I didn't- beautiful.\" Panicking, the girl tried to apologise, justify herself, and compliment Miu all at once, but the only thing that she kind of managed to do was the third, though through disconnected words and much blushing.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "The already on edge Miu jumped at the equipment falling down. At first Rin received a more serious and angered look. However when the grand Lion turned towards the Matsu that frown turned upside down. Slightly. The Kitsu granted the Matsu a friendly smile and a deep bow. When rising up it was clear how beaten up the Kitsu had truly been. As she had fought some sort of beast. Maybe Ilu. \n\n*\"Matsu-sama. How are you today?\"* \n\nIt was clear Miu wasn't bothered or didn't even think about the fact the Matsu had been staring at her. She would brush off some of the sweat from her forehead. Leaving some blood from her knuckles on her forehead instead. Watching the Matsu struggle with even presenting herself made the Kitsu chuckle ever so slightly. \n\n*\"Anything I can help you with? Or did you wish to join me in beating up this dummy?\"* She questioned. Sending a puff of air right at her forehead to blow away the one stray strand of hair bothering her face. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She felt blood chill in her veins as she thought she had angered Miu,but then relaxed along with the Kitsu. She still stared a bit, with eyes that might as well have been twinkling, but remembered to answer before it could look weird. \"O-Oh, yes, I am also here to train! I am sorry if I didn't greet you properly, I didn't want to... Distract you.\" \n\nShe scratched her nose nervously. She thought about Miu's offer, but she knew what she really wanted: she wanted to fight her, to see how could she fare against such a warrior herself. But she already looked pretty beat up, it would've been unfair to issue a challenge right now! Although she was probably big enough that this disadvantage wasn't of much importance... No Rin, this is not a honorable wish! \"T-Thanks, but I'll get my own, yours seems already too busy with you, ahaha... I am just content seeing you strike the mannequin again.\" She let a bit of her real motives slip in inadvertently, as she meekly set up a dummy for herself. Instead of striking it, she took a grappler's stance, and started fake charging it to warm up. Maybe that would burn the evil thoughts away.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"No worries Matsu-sama!\"* Miu mentioned before flinging her hands around a few times to release the tension. *\"My dummy stands no chance sadly.\"* Miu had chuckled as she returned to punching the ever living hell out of her dummy. The punches were precise beyond as the Kitsu mentioned. *\"But then again it doesn't really put up a fight either. Good for punches, shitty for tactics and experience.\"* Miu smirked as she saw how Rin was attempting to tackle the dummy. Not that feisty yet. But then again, Miu's expectations of feisty were beyond. \n\nAs much as Rin clearly tried to hide it, it was like Miu could read her thoughts. \n\n*\"Would you like to replace my dummy Matsu-sama? Not that I'll release a free reign of punches over you but something or rather someone that fights back is a challenge on its own. As long as you don't punch here\"* Miu pointed at the clear grand bruise on the side of her shoulder. \n\n*\"We should be good. But only if you feel like it of course.\"* Miu stated. Even though looking beaten, Rin should realize what she fought was much worse than what Rin could possibly inflict in a friendly spar. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "_thud._ Rin's tackle inadvertently turned into a headbutt at the dummy when she made the offer, pushing down the poor thing again. She snapped her head back at her, trying (and failing) to not sound too enthusiastic. \"Of course I do! I mean, if it helps you, and it'll surely help me- anyway, yes!\" \n\nShe immediately ran back to her training pouch, putting on her handwraps and shedding of all the layers of the hakama that would get in the way of a sparring match. For her size, she was actually as big as one could be while still moving comfortably, but compared to Miu she looked like a child about to spar with her parent. Nonetheless, she showed only eagerness as she stepped back in front of her, clashing her fists together. \"I am ready when you are, Kitsu-sama! But before we go, I just wanted to ask... What did you fight that could have hurt you so much?\" Personally she thought of a bear like the one in her previous story, but she didn't stop considering how she would find one inside of a city.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"A bear. I wrestled a bear.\"* Miu answered in a more serious tone. It seemed like she almost felt defeated by the fact. Had she not won? *\"It did some internal damage mostly, I have to thank the kami for that one. It was a brief reminder that we cannot truly trust other clans.\"* Miu paused as she felt angered over it. She was very angry. *\"The beast didn't make it however.\"* She added to the story before snapping out of her inner frustrations and giving that familiar smile again. \n\n*\"So please do not hit me on my shoulder Matsu-sama. I will warn you that if you do, I will give a primal response and might hurt you.\"* Miu warned. She went to stand ready as she would bow down towards the Matsu. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "\"Eh?\" Rin blinked politely, needing a moment to take what she said In. She had wrestled _a bear?!_ just as she had imagined! The only reason she didn't cheer her for it, was how dejected she looked about it. *Why? Did she expect to do better? It's still a bear, after all, it's bound to be tough... Wait, how is this related to trusting other clans?* She had even more questions now, but Miu's bow remembered her this was not a place to chat. They were to fight, and fight they would. \"O-Of course, Kitsu-sama, I wish for a clean fight! May the better woman win...\"\n\nFinally, she took her previous stance, low on her knees and ready to lunge for takedowns. Trading blows with an adversary of her size was suicide, and besides striking was not her specialty. She'd do her best to bring the fight to the ground, where size would be (slightly more) irrelevant.\n\nShe wanted to go in right before the start, but her spars with Hotaru had taught her to be better than that. When facing a superior opponent, you should study them a bit, and as soon as you spot an opportunity, go in!- and if they attack you first, well, she'd think to something.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"I'll tell you about the bear after our spar.\"*\n\nWith that Miu had observed her opponent. Even though she won in size it had never mattered. Just like the time she almost took out a Hida by being creative enough. But with that slightest hesitation that Rin granted, clearly thinking over her tactics, Miu became swift out of the sudden. The woman never had taken a clear stance to announce what she was going to do. Just that fired up look with a more terrifying grin said enough. Miu was here to strike. \n\nSo just like Rin had embraced the training dummy only a few minutes ago, Miu was doing the same thing. She had no intentions on punching the woman to nothingness. It was training, not a challenge. \n\nThe strong arms wrapped around her as one arm had attempted a grip around her leg as the other one aimed for the torso. Ready to bring the Matsu off balance within a fluid motion. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "*Eek!* Rin squeaked a little internally when Miu dashed at her: she hadn't expected her to go for a grapple as well, and hadn't quite realised the effect that made seeing this mountain of muscle rush at her at full speed. Luckily, though, her instinct was much superior to her logical thinking, and in a way losing the chance of a clear analysis helped. \n\nAs Miu got her hands on her, she immediately abandoned the idea of trying to fight to stay up: she was strong enough to simply lift her anyway. Thus, she went even lower, forcing the Kitsu to bring her head to her level to grab her, and then she tried to wrap her arms around her neck in a guillotine choke(while carefully avoiding to touch her shoulder.) At the same time, she lifted her free leg, bringing it around her opponent's hip. From there, if she went for a slam she would be able to climb on her back first- or at least, theoretically.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "But theoretically Rin had forgotten something about Miu. Miu had been ruthless. The moment Rin managed to get on her back Miu did the unthinkable. Instead of an attempt to pry Rin out of the choke. What had looked like she was doing first by grabbing both of her arms. Miu rose to a higher stature with Rin on her back. A twisted grin grew on her face. \n\nPray to the kami Rin was strong or swift enough because the girl, now stuck on Miu's back, was about to get crushed between the ground and Miu. Miu went in for a slam. A slam that she would end up on her back but Rin breaking her fall. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Rin was, overall, feeling pretty good about herself. In her first exchange with Hotaru she had been defeated at the first blow, so she had at least she had grown to the point of being able to counter an attack from an expert samurai! Who knows, perhaps she even had a chance at...\n\nAnd then Miu started raising.\n\nPanicking a little, she tightened her stranglehold as much as she could, but the Kitsu kept standing up inexorably, and when she realised trying to escape was the right move, it was too late, and her meeting with Floor-san came shortly after.\n\nThankfully, Rin was sturdy enough to not break any bones, but that was pretty much all the upsides of the situation. Her chest turned into a thin sheet of paper as Miu and the ground worked together to flatten it, and her vision exploded in a swarm of colorful dots. For a few moments, she managed to keep her grip, but shortly after her arms went limp and fell to the sides. The tap of Miu's arm was unnecessary, as it was clear as sun that Rin was done fighting. Or moving, for that matter.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu rolled away from the Matsu as she coughed as well. After all even though Rin had been taking the blow, Miu had internal damage. A few loud gasps made sure the woman could still breathe and was still going. With that the Kitsu rolled on her hands and knees and then sat on her knees. *\"I apologize Matsu-sama. Stay still please.\"* \n\nWith that Miu started to recite a spell. Even though the kami had been angered with her, the purpose of helping another being had been enough to put their grudges aside for the moment. *\"You underestimated me and I for some reason felt the urge to prove myself. Once again my apologies.\"* With that Miu would heal the Matsu. Even revitalizing her energy just like that for free as well. \n\n*\"I know this feels good but please take a moment to catch your breath before you go crazy. Healing takes time even with spells.\"* Miu stated. Looking at the Matsu as she patiently sat next to her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Would she get used to the blessings of the kami, in time? Rin didn't know. Once more, the prayer felt like a little miracle to her (which, to be fair, was), and as she returned to feeling her face, she smiled.\n\n \"There's no need to apologise, Kitsu-sama, I didn't want you to go easy on me... If anything I should apologise for not being much of a workout, ahah.\" She really did not feel bad about losing. She was talented, but not so talented as to have not tasted defeat regularly during her training, and humbleness was also just a natural virtue for her. Only thing she felt bad about, was not being much of a challenge for Miu. She must have bored her. \n\n\"Okay, can I get up now? Just on my knees, nothing \"Crazy-\" Ugh...\" She felt her bones crackle like dry leaves as she raised slowly, but overall, the Kitsu's spell had done its job. \"Still, I thank you for rolling with me. I promise next time I'll prove a more interesting opponent!\" The volume of her voice was lower, now that she was in a air deficit, but still high enough to be what a polite samurai would consider a normal volume.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu squinted her eyes at the other lion. Just stared at her like that for a solid moment. Then the Lion would adjust her jaw a bit. *\"You were a perfect opponent. Remember the bear? At least you don't require me to summon the kami to win the fight.\"* Miu complimented her as she offered Rin a hand whilst getting up. The golden eyes glanced at her. *\"Are you cutting your losses this fast Matsu-sama?\"* This was not a question of mockery, no Miu was truly curious about this. After all the kami were still upset with her. Healing others would be fine but she for once in her life wasn't sure if she could win another battle.\n\nMiu had looked truly beaten upon a closeup. Her jaw had been clearly bruised and swollen as well. Her shoulder was severely hurt internally and the energy she radiated just wasn't as joyful as it normally would be. *\"Matsu-sama, have you fought battles, like wars or just general battles I mean? Not a brawl with a friendly foe or a bear.\"* It was clear Miu was done fighting for now. She would stare at her own knuckles for a moment before glancing over to the stone bench to sit on. Gesturing the Matsu to do the same. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She took the hand gladly, but as she got to truly see Miu's state her eyes almost popped out of their sockets. Sure, most of the damage had been from the bear fight, but she had contributed, at least a little. She almost apologised, but then assumed it would have been disrespectful and held her tongue in. \"O-Oh, Kitsu-sama, it's not... I mean, I had been completely pinned down, hadn't I? In a true fight, that would've been it ...It would have been dishonest to use the fact this was a friendly fight to my advantage.\"\n\nShe skipped next to Miu, sitting down *Carefully*. Her face, still considerably red, turned crimson at the question. \"N-No, this is my first year as a real samurai... I am eager to make experience, though! I'm not really smart or eloquent, but my sword is at my Lord's service.\" That came out as a readied phrase. It sounded like the thing a cultured Lion would say.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"You'll learn, worry not Matsu-sama.\"* Miu granted her a friendly smile. She would lean back a bit, clearly resting for once. *\"Please don't be so humble about yourself. I think you're way smarter than you and those around you consider yourself.\"* Her eyes would glance over to the beaten to pulp dummy. \n\n*\"You see I actually wanted to ask some advice.\"* Miu paused as she either had been out of breath or this matter had been truly bothering her. She would now turn her glance to her fingers and unwrapped the cloth around them. \n\n*\"You see. This fight with the bear wasn't mine alone. There was a dragon, who ran and left me to my faith, a crab who froze in battle and a phoenix that managed to hesitate in every moment her could.\"* The Kitsu would reveal the gruesome faith her knuckles had faced, the wrath of her anger. \n\n*\"They abandoned me and made me question their honor. Which for once, in all my good faith in samurai, makes me doubt people. I am truly angered, but I wish to bring them no dishonor. But Bishamon...\"* Miu seemed to actually mentally struggle with things for once. The grand Kitsu that always bore a great emotion of joy or energy now seemed rather... Down? \n\n*\"Bishamon stands for my faith, the strong should be stronger, the ones that are not deserve no honor. Something along those lines. I feel like he is disappointed in me for having to put my trust in other samurai. Him punishing me by the samurai letting me down.\"* Strange how strong Miu's faith was in this fortune. How much it decided how she thought and was. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She blinked. Smart? Nobody ever called her smart, except for Mom and Dad, but they didn't count. In another situation, she might have thought she was just trying to make her feel better, but Miu didn't seem the kind for white lies.\n\nShe was glad that Miu had looked away, because her mouth just fell open like a slammed door, and she had to physically shove it closed. Advice? From *Her*? How she could even advise such a wise, experienced warrior? Maybe if it was something about animal husbandry or theatre she could have helped, but apart from that, she had nothing.\nBut she had been mistaken. This was not a matter of lore. It was one of emotions.\n\nFor a moment, she just stared, utterly confused. As usual, her reaction to dishonor was not rage but innocent surprise: how could a samurai, raised under the shadow of their ancestors, willingly act dishonorably? Did they not care for their soul, their lord, their legacy? She just didn't understand.\n\nHowever, she did get that Miu was troubled. At first this stunned her. She had always thought to the Kitsu as a rock, indestructible, indomitable. But she had forgotten she was human like all samurai. She had been superficial. \"Kitsu-sama... I have no words to explain those samurai's behaviour.\" She began, softly. \"But I think you didn't do anything wrong. You are the strongest person I know, but it's normal to rely on other people. That's why we're a clan, right? To work together for the good of the Empire. That requires trust, and even though sometimes you will be let down it's not a good reason to shut everybody off. There's lots of good people out here who are worthy of your help.\" She kicked her feet.\n\n\"Y'know... My mom used to tell something to me, when I started training. A samurai, especially a warrior, must be strong, but they're not just strong for themselves. They allow those weaker than them to shelter under their mighty shoulders. Of course, this isn't meant to happen with other warriors... But the fact that still you did does even more honor to you. I try to be like that as well, but I can't do it as much as you: you're the strongest person I know. So, please keep protecting people.\" Without thinking if this was appropriate, she put a hand on the Kitsu's massive bicep. Though she was trying to behave more formally, her empathy far overrun her societal awareness.\n\n||"
}
] | 235.5 | 4,623 |
206.657143 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "*A clear day graced the gardens of the Lion Embassy. The warm rays of Lady Sun shone down upon the beauty the courtyards of the Emperor's Right Hand could muster. Across the threshold of the gates passed two strangers most curious.\n\nThe first, a woman of average build, a slow and languid gait, displaying the mon of the Scorpion and—for those familiar—the Soshi. Robes of traditional black and red wrapped her body up to her neck, where it met a full, draconic face mask. The second woman with her was perhaps more unusual still. Greying hair stood in stark contrast to her youthful face, porcelain perfect and without blemish. Her long kimono seemed to envelop everything but her face, the sleeves hiding the woman's hands. It was a strange design: white with seemingly random reddish-brown patches dotted throughout the garment.*\n\n\"Usagi Io, here to speak to the Lion. I am sure someone here will make time for me.\" The greying woman would flow forward gracefully and speak to the first steward who approached them or blocked their path."
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "The Ikoma Bard had finally returned to the City of the Rich Frog after a prolonged absence, but had wasted no time situating herself. Somehow, she had returned to the city with even more kimonos and scrolls than before. And she also had not hesitated to resume behavior, as if she had been here the entire time, resuming duties like receiving samurai guests, for example.\n\nKazuyo was giving the servants and guards a chance to greet their guests, whom she had been watching through a window, before moving herself to meet them inside. As ever, her appearance immaculate and quite un-lion-like. She took a bow towards the two, as they entered, specifically aimed towards the guest who wasn't wearing Scorpion colors.\n\n\"Welcome to the Embassy of the Lion. I am Ikoma Kazuyo, how may I be of service to you?\"\nBefore rising again from her bow, dyed auburn hair falling over golden and ember robes, as two confident eyes look over the guests, each."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "It was good that Kazuyo was here to provide good hospitality... Because they would not receive it from someone else.\n\nMiho was not the captain of the embassy's guard, or the karo, or any other role that required watching over the embassy, but she was a stakanovist that kept the servants and the patrolling ashigaru in an iron grip. Thus, she was informed just after their courtier about the arrival of the strange delegation. A few minutes later, and she was on the doorstep, staring at the two with a steely eye.\n\nThe Ikoma almost looked like the opposite of her younger kin, at least in her appearence. She was also dressed elegantly, but her clothes and hairstyle were severe even for Lion standards, and her face looked like it was sculpted out of stone. As always, she looked cold to the point of hostility, but for once this wasn't her normal expression: it was true wariness, and hatred, for those in front of her. *A Soshi and a Hare... I see they have found a kindred spirit In each other.* She didn't know what had happened in the forest, precisely, but she knew the Minor clan had crossed the Lion and offended her Lord. As for the Scorpion, well, she was the Scorpion. That was enough.\n\nShe bowed to the two of them at a distance, but did not approach them yet. First of, the young woman she didn't know well yet was handling this already, and second, she would not lower herself to walk to this duo. *They* Would be the one that would come to her.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Greetings, Ikoma-sama, I am Usagi Io personal representative of the Daimyo of the Hare Clan, Usagi Tsukiko.\" Her voice was *Odd*, somehow both lilting yet monotone at the same time. Slow moving, unblinking eyes moved to take in the Lion who had greeted her. \"My associate and I have matters to discuss with whoever may be in charge here. There is a matter of honor at stake and I would be remiss to let it remain unattended.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "THE Daimyo of the Hare Clan. Was the Hare so small that it only had the one? Kazuyo suppressed the mocking smirk she was tempted to show.\n\"Whoever may be in charge, you say?\" \nA seemingly innocent question, but it very vaguely implied an accusation. The accusation of approaching an embassy without knowing who was to be found there. But before one could take umbrage to it to question whether it was intentional, Kazuyo had already moved on.\n\"You must be speaking of Ambassador Kitsu Himiko. I shall most certainly check if she is ready to receive you. Would you like to come inside and enjoy our hospitality, until then?\"\nAs she stepped to the side and made an inviting gesture towards the embassy.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She kept her brow from shooting up. *The Hare is making their move, then. Are they really going to offend our clan and then come to us as if they were in the right? Hmm, maybe they're coming to apologise. No, it can't be that simple, it's never that simple.* She bowed her head politely to the Usagi- whatever she was, manners had to be respected- and moved out of the way into the door. However, she did not remain idle as her kin handled the formalities: spotting the first servant in range, she called for them with a gesture of the hand, and said with artificial indifference. \"It appears we might be having guests of status. Make sure we are prepared to receive such a visit: I want you to go to Taisa-sama and inform him of the situation, so that he may set up a worthy hospitality.\" She didn't shout, but she wasn't trying to conceal her words either: let them hear what was coming. Even though Kitsu-sama was the Ambassador, her loyalty went first and foremost to her Taisa, and she would make sure he knew his enemies were here.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"I was under the impression the leader of your interests here was a man, a soldier of some regard. It seems I am out of touch. If Ambassador Kitsu-sama is too busy to be seen, though, I am certain two women of your skill would suffice for what we need to discus.\" The Hare Clan woman's unblinking eyes continued to stare straight ahead at Kazuyo, though the faintest twitch at the corner of her right could be noticed.\n\nAnd in fact both Miho and Kazuyo would feel a sense of calm and collected surety come over them. It was *Only* A single member of an insignificant minor clan who had dared to insult the Emperor's Right Hand. Was it really worth troubling the Ambassador or the Taisa over such a matter? They were capable samurai in their own right, were they not? Imagine the glory of being able to handle this themselves, the Ambassador's prized courtier and the Taisa's right hand. That was what they were here for, to deal with matters beneath their superiors' interests, and to gain the glory by doing so.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "Kazuyo was quite susceptible to this aura, of calm and collected certainty. Although, it did little to change her behaviour. Calm and collected was one of the benefits of her overreaching arrogance. \n\"Well, if you feel that way, I shall be happy to hear the matter and then call upon the Ambassador if it does indeed require her attention. Please, come, have a seat with me.\"\nAnd she once more makes an inviting gesture inside, accompanying them to a table that Miho's orders would see being prepared right now.\nKazuyo, meanwhile, was contemplating the situation. Had the Hare samurai not blinked until now? Clearly, something was going on here. A medical condition? Magic? Scorpion trickery? Well, she would no doubt be able to handle whatever it was."
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "Likewise, Miho's ego made her prime target for this kind of spell. The thought was already in the depths on her mind, far down, all the kami had to do were pull it to surface. *Let us \"Discuss\", then.*\n\nThe servant knew well what they had to do, to the point where Miho didn't need to give any instructions. The table was set up with all a guest of honor could expect, from tea to sweets to sake (of a quite strong blend, just to make sure guests could get *Really* Comfortable). She waited for the two of them to sit first,and then she also joined them, picking a place right next to the Soshi's location. She had been reassured about the Hare, but the Scorpion was still a problem: why were they here? Of course, you could always expect the Scorpion to be friend of the Lion's enemy, but still such direct exposure was questionable. Were they planning to weaponise the strife between them? Probably. But that also gave them a chance to strike. If she could find proof of the Scorpion's meddling, then they'd have a legitimate reason to bring down the Scorpion, and discret them yet again. *Don't lose focus from her. The Soshi love being overlooked.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Excellent.\" The woman's lips curled upwards in a smile. It was not a comforting one. The two visitors sat, and the tea was accepted. The Hare woman would bow again respectfully. \"I appreciate the warm hospitality, Ikoma-samas. I was concerned we would face more . . . Pointed accommodations. Perhaps my associate can begin the recounting.\"\n\nThe dragon-masked Scorpion turned slowly to keep both Lion in her sight, then nodded.\n\n\"Honored Lion-samas, I am Soshi Seiryoku, a merchant patron of the clan.\" Her voice, while potentially at one time quite beautiful, was marred by a languid numbness and lisp. A wound, perhaps, or something else keeping her tongue dulled. \"My wares are extensive, and my reach travels throughout the city. A few weeks past I was approached by a man claiming to be of the Hare Clan looking to offload supplies. Imagine my surprise when I could easily identify them as made in Lion lands. After ensuring they fell safely into my care, I began to investigate this oddity.\"\n\n\"Which led her to me.\" Io spoke up now, taking over the narrative. \"For the last few weeks I have been scouring these parts for sign of Forest Killers masquerading as members of our clan, extorting honest citizens while tarnishing our good name. Her story intrigued me, and has now led me to your doorstep, seeking to fill in the missing pieces.\"\n\nAnyone who had spent any time in and around the city would have heard of Forest Killers and their cunning viciousness. Whether such stories were true or tales told to keep the populace from leaving the city's walls was less certain.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "Kazuyo settled into her seat, going through the motions of a less formal tea ceremony, as things were still rather unofficial at this point, while patiently listening. She had indeed heard about how a Samurai of their clan had been tricked into surrendering some of his goods. And apparently, this was where they had ended up, now. She slowly nodded along, sipping her tea, ignoring the unappealing talk of merchant business, before responding.\n\n\"Indeed, I had heard rumors that through cheap trickery, a thief had taken from our Clan. Though I am not too sure about the details.\"\n\nOf course, she did have some more details. But she wasn't going to share them, unless she could be sure that it would be to her benefit and in the interest of her Clan.\n\n\"I cannot speak for my Clan, but I believe it can be assumed with quite some certainty, that the Lion will have a personal interest in seeing the Hare bring these imposters, or whatever they may be, to justice.\" \nThe implication was rather clear: Hare clan or not, Kazuyo wanted to see the culprits executed or, if they truly had been of the Hare, committing seppuku. She spoke with certainty, even though she usually would have wavered at the thought of watching someone die. But with the influence upon her mind, that was no concern for her, right now.\n\n\"I take it that the stolen goods have or will be returned shortly?\"\nShe added with a casual tone, glancing towards the Scorpion samurai.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "*So this is how it'll be?* It was a good plan from the Hare. Maybe they were lying, maybe it was true: it didn't really matter. The point was that now the Hare had a easy way out of this situation, and the Lion could recover their honor just as easily. A good compromise for everybody.\n\n*But do we want a compromise?* That was the real question. On one hand, it would be troublesome to get back to the Hare, as a Minor clan, and their cause here lied elsewhere. On the other, her lord wanted vengeance. Katsuhiro was a patient and sensible man, but he was still Lion, and this people had offended his honor. It was entirely possible he wouldn't be satisfied with so little. *Besides, it would be a good show of force. Show what happens with those that cross the Lion.* But this all, was not hers to decide. It was for Katsuhiro, and the ambassador.\n\"As Ikoma-san said. We do not doubt your martial capability, but these news are quite worrying: perhaps we should join your efforts in rooting out these bandits. After all, this threat seems to extend even beyond Hare lands.\" An offer, but also a very strong suggestion. They would not leave these investigations to biased members of their clan. Perhaps they didn't have the authority to enter in their lands, but the forest was vast, and Ryoko Owari was only of the Imperials right now. If they gave them the authorisation, the Hare would not be able to say a thing.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro was on the opposite end of the embassy grounds working on his gardens when a runner finally found him. The man informed him that officials of the Soshi and Usagi families were here. Shock was plainly evident on his face. Had word of their plans slipped? Had someone been compromised? He did not know, but he also did not trust himself to face the two of them without Himiko. His rage could get the better of him in this situation. So he brushed dirt off his hands, and made his way to meet up with Himiko in her office, so that they could meet the two together.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Of course, the supplies will be returned to you with great haste. Later today servants of mine will arrive with them, as well as a gift of thanks for your understanding.\" The slurred Soshi nodded toward Kazuyo, still not having removed her mask to partake of the spread provided. There was little that could be gleaned from the intimidating, draconic mask barely showing the woman's eyes.\n\n\"Working together would not only be appreciated, but *Expected*, Ikoma-sama. Your clan was wronged, you seek justice. To deny you of that would be a gross oversight of our own values.\" The pale, unblinking eyes of the Hare were focused entirely on Miho. Somehow the woman's exposed face seemed more unsettling than the fully masked Soshi next to her. \"After all, our clans share the same blood. Why should we not spill it together?\"\n\nUsagi Io finished her tea, setting the cup back down before bowing to her hosts. \"Regardless, I am certain you will have to discuss specifics with those who command you, and I have a lead to follow. Apparently one of their number is serving as a sort of yojimbo or protector of the Governor. I will investigate and report my findings.\"\n\nThe two would rise and prepare to depart, their message being delivered and missing pieces filled in. \"Thank you once more for your hospitality. We shall be on our way with haste to ensure your vengeance is given form soon.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "Kazuyo rose to her feet and took a bow to her departing guests. \"I am certain you shall act with honor and that the guilty will be severely punished. May you find success.\" And she watched the two depart, until she felt certain that they were gone, snapping up her fan and turning to Miho, with the fan blocking sight towards her mouth, so that nobody could, officially, listen in on them. \n\n\"This was... Quite strange. They are both highly suspicious and agreed to this far too quickly. Could this be another trick, to lure us out?\" The influence had made her confident, but confidence in Kazuyo's case was to become even more suspicious and start seeing even more plots everywhere. More plots that SHE would see right through, of course!\n\n\"Something here is not as it should be.\""
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She took considerable efforts to nod at the Usagi's words. *WE share the blood with Kami and many of Rokugan's greatest heroes, you share it with a drunken ronin that happened to be a bit faster than most. We are not the same.* Nonetheless, she agreed courteously and remained politely insipid for the rest of the conversation, letting them take their leave in all calm. \n\n\nAnd when they were gone, she sat back on her chair even more rigidly than usual. She didn't have a fan with her right now, so she just had to call for a servant and get one from her room before answering. \"I couldn't agree more, Ikoma-san. If your first offer is accepted, it probably means they would have accepted half of that price. But then, we must discern *Why* They were so keen to agree...\" She touched her chin. \"As of now, I see a few possibilities: one, they took the initiative and came to us before we could make our move, so that they may twist the investigations as they prefer. Two, these thieving Hares are actually indesirables within their own clan, and they plan to use us to finally get rid of them. Three, the deception runs even deeper and at the end of this investigation there is a trap set for us by them and the Scorpion.\" Her brow furrows. \"There are too many things we don't know. The Hare has more powerful allies than it should be possible, and I cannot help but think we're still dancing at their own tune. But of course, they do not know who they are dancing with.\" Without the spell, she would have never exposed this personal opinion, but currently her self-confidence was bloated from huge to colossal. \"I shall craft a plan. Whatever happens we should not leave these investigations to the Hare alone. I have my own strategies, but I'd feel honored to hear yours first, Ikoma-san.\" She rather liked the woman. It wasn't easy to explain, but it felt like they were on the same page.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "The Bard slowly nodded along, before blinking and looking over to Miho, a bit surprised at such plain speech, but not overthinking it much at all. She didn't know Miho well enough to think her behaviour strange.\n\"The Hare... She did not blink. She seemed very strange, in fact. I do not like the implication of that.\"\nShe had not even considered it, but could this possibly be... Taint? She shivered slightly. Such a horrid idea. By ravaged by a disease of the soul.\n\"But very good. We should see to it that whoever will go with them is ready for what may be to come. And we should consider whether to send more yet, to keep an eye on them.\"\nThe situation was not the best, when it came to Ikoma Shadows at their disposal here, but perhaps they could afford to spare one or two for this brief situation.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "*She did not?* She hadn't noticed that. Perhaps it was just to keep their attention, or perhaps there was something stranger going on. \"That is true. I shall speak with Akechi-san, our resident kenjutsu sensei: he has proven to have such talents.\" The side of her that had been educated by her mother thought for a moment about Maeda, but she quickly discarded the idea. She wouldn't lower to using a shinobi.\n\nShe bowed. \"Then, I think that'll be all. Thank you for your help, Ikoma-san, I must go informing my lord. We shall speak again, to coordinate our ideas effectively.\" The temptation to do this all on her own was great, but after all, she already knew about it, and if she ignored her she might have found herself in a disgraceful race against her kinswoman. Besides, she didn't mind sharing the glory with her *That* Much: it was just a feeling, but she sensed they might share the same objectives. *She's a courtier, I am a commander... There should be space for both of us.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro strode into the space set up by Kazuyo and Miho, perpared to see the Hare he had met in the field or someone similiar, but instead saw only the two Lions. He glanced from Kazuyo to Miho and then back, then up and out at the empty courtyard.\n\n\"I got your runner, and Kitsu-sama and I are prepared to recieve them... Where... Are they?\"\n\nPerhaps they had them in another sitting room? But there were cushions here for two more. His earthen brown eyes showed that he was confused by the lack of rabbit to roast over a fire.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "Kazuyo glanced over, when Katsuhiro arrived and took a brief bow, begining to explain are rising to full height, again.\n\n\"Akodo-sama. I fear our guests departed rather swiftly, after promising to work together with us, to catch what, they described, as the Forest Killers disguising themselves as Hare samurai. They were a rather curious couple. A Scorpion merchant herder by the name of Soshi Seiryoku, who spoke somewhat strangely, as if scarred at the mouth and a Hare representative of their Daimyo, named Usagi Tsukiko, who... Had a very strange gaze. I do not believe I saw them blink.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro had a moment of surprise pass over his face that they had departed so quickly. That was very odd indeed. But what followed form Kazuyo was even more strange. A Scorpion merchant patron acompanied the hare? Who did not blink? It made Katsuhiro think back to the discussion with Kazuko about Temujin thinking he heard someone giving the monster orders.\n\n\"That is strange news indeed on all accounts. Still, this maneuver does not surprise me. Claiming that the Hare I encountered are really Forest Killers was one of the more likely moves I thought they might take... Still... We now have two competing claims for who represents the Hare. Do they provide you any letters or paperwork showing their claim?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "The Bard ever so slightly tilted her head. Paperwork and letters? The Dragon Clan's odd ideas about finding truth were starting to take hold far and wide, it seemed.\n\"Nothing of the sorts, I am afraid. I must admit to knowing very little about the Hare, so I could not find fault in their statements, but they certainly seemed... Strange. There should certainly be an effort to investigate their claims and perhaps see if we can find members of the Hare clan to collaborate their claims, before sending anyone with them.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"Indeed. The *Forest Killer* I met claimed to be the Hare Ambassador. And now your guest who acted strangely shows up claiming to speak for the clan. Of the two of them, who seemed to be in charge?\"\n\nIf it was the representative of the hare clan, they chose an odd Scorpion for their introductions.\n\n\"I believe it would be wise to summon the Scorpion Clan Magistrate, Bayushi Yuto-san. He is aware of the situation, as well as the most credible to speak on behalf of this Soshi.\" He spoke the words in a way that said he expected it to be done, but since he did not outright command anyone to act, he was giving them a chance to speak their thoughts on the matter.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "\"If I may suggest a different approach: we cannot expect honest or reliable answers from the Scorpion Clan. Such is not in their nature. However, a far more reliable way to investigate whether this representitive is real or not, would be to approach the Hare clan, instead. After all, they expect us to oversee their efforts to capture the imposters, no? Let us then seek out their official dwellings and get some answers from the source, on our terms.\"\nTruth be told, Kazuyo did not know if the Hare Clan had any representitives within the city, but there had to be, if one had approached them here, no?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro lowered himself down to one of the formerly occupied cushions as he listened to Kazuyo's words. She had good advince to give for the most part. He was pleased that they had an intelligent, experienced courtier to help bear the load of the Clan. The bushi were only so good at such things.\n\n\"You speak wisdom, Ikoma-san, but you do not have all of the pieces of this puzzle.\"\n\nKatsuhiro reached out and poured himself some tea, taking a sip before he began his story.\n\n\"Bayushi Yuto-san, the Scorpion Magistrate, is a *Junshin* And has already been pulled into the circle of confidence. I believe he is trustworthy in the sense that he believes the words he speaks, and seeks to act honorably, but he is not so deft at court to understand when the information he has been given is... Intentionally misplaced... \" He tried to find the words to politely say he was not smart enough to know when he was being duped.\n\n\"The man I met in the forest who I now wish to see commit seppuku, I do not believe he fully lied. I think there is perhaps truth to them being both Forest Killer and Hare clan, but there is also a suspicion that there is a Maho-tsukai in command of whatever Yokai lurks out in the forest. We do not know if they are in league or opposition, but if what you have said is true, then it seems that are opposed to one another. Baysuhi-san has been tasked with following up some leads on the forest killer side, so I think we should pursue this Scorpion angle.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "Kazuyo tapped her chin with her fan, thoughtfully.\n\n\"I see. Though I would still recommend getting the Hare's official stance on this matter, from a source that we know. The one who was here, seemed very strange to me. And someone more important than I should agree to such cooperation regardless, so that it is granted proper legitimacy. For now, I have only told them what I could suspect our demands and wishes to be, but officially, there has not been an agreement between them and us. This would be a good opportunity to see who leads them and witness their stance on this matter. I can offer to meet them myself with more formal permission to come to an agreement on behalf of the lion, once we have discussed this with the Ambassador.\"\n\nWhile her speech was polite and appropriately subservient, there was certainly a hint of Kazuyo feeling like her word should be considered an order. She seemed to think quite highly of her inlfuence.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"Were that possible, I would agree with you. The now declared Forest Killer was the man who is supposedly their Ambassador, if your guest is to be believed. Therefore there are only two avenues left open to us.\" Katsuhiro set down his cup so that he could count on his fingers.\n\n\"First, we can hope that Bayushi-san is successful in identifying the son of the man I encountered is a student at Jotomon's Dojo, and can be brought here to provide information. Second, we can send a message to the Hare Clan Champion down in Hare Clan lands.\" He put his hand down and picked up the tea cup again.\n\n\"I suppose there may be a third option, that the Ambassador was officially registered with the Imperial Governor, or has filed travel papers with the Scorpion Magistrate. Bayushi-san should be able to speak to two of those 3 options.\"\n\nKatsuhiro seemed very comfortable talking through the options with Kazuyo. She would be able to read from him that while he was assured of what he said, there was no push back. He seemed to enjoy talking through options and plans before acting on them. He seemed the type to welcome it, though she would also be able to tell he was the sort that once a matter was concluded, he expected action.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "She was annoyed for a moment, that her, in her opinion, superior plan was not received with praise and acceptance, but did not show it. Yet.\n\n\"I fear I do not quite understand. How do the statements of our guests imply that the ambassador of the Hare was personally involved in what happened? Surely, if what they said is true, then the person in the forest would not have been the ambassador and meeting the real one in person might dispel this trickery?\"\n\nShe fanned herself with agentle, slow motions, seemingly indicating that she was being calm and contemplative.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"The Hare clan, unlike the other Great clans, do not have an official Ambassador or estate in the city. The man whom I met in the forest said he was the one who spoke for the Hare. And I'm conversation allowed that his son studied at a dojo here, which brought him into the city frequently. Which is also why that dojo is now watched.\"\n\nKatsuhiro did not like repeating himself, but neither Miho nor Kazuyo were there for the briefing, nor the planned meeting. This was his chance to read them in as much as he wished.\n\n\"We have set into motion a plan to see them all either killed or captured.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "Kazuyo stopped for a moment. This was fool-hardy, of course. The Lion had already been tricked by disguised people of other allegiance last year and this threatened to be the same. The proper reaction would have been to alert an Emerald Magistrate about this grievance and let them handle this.\nHowever... The Hare was small and its lands were bordering the Lion's. If conflict was to break out, it was no question who would benefit and most likely, the Imperial families did not care enough about the Hare, to see it lose some of its fields which the Lion so desperately needed.\n\n\"I see... This does complicate matters, of course. Perhaps capturing them and getting some answers directly really is the best way forward.\"\n\nHer voice was contemplative, her expression slightly concerned, but determined. But on the inside, the Lion's song and shadow was grinning widely. Finally, another chance to get things done in this city.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Kill who?\"* The young Kitsu had joined the conversation out of the blue. The striking eyes had demanded an answer within mere seconds. *\"Can somebody elaborate to me why there was so much commotion on these grounds and why it took everyone so long to call me here?\"* She would tilt her head ever so slightly. It seemed she was however in a good mood today. She seemed patient enough and no burst of anger would strike their conversation. She was calm and collected like she should have been. She would bow down to all of them to greet them and made sure it was of appropriate depth. \n\nHer pupils clearly shifted as she suddenly mentioned *\"And why were there kami called on our grounds? Has one of you suddenly gotten the ability to call upon them?\"* She would set her head straight again. Observing the space as she was not able to find out what spell or what kami however. She would slightly scrunch her nose. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "\"Kitsu-sama.\" Kazuyo didn't skip a bit. She was a caught, but if you didn't act like it, then you weren't. That was a lesson her grandmother had taught her. One of the first, in fact, as it was relevant to things one got up to as a child. Rising to her feet, she took a deep bow.\n\n\"Forgive me, I had sent for you, but our guests disappeared almost as suddenly as they had arrived. One could almost get the feeling that they did not want to meet you in person. I would be happy to explain the situation to you.\"\nShe rose to full height again, shifting to an apologetic but friendly expression, adapting and smoothing, fluid and gentle as water.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "It was clear that Himiko was not angry. Just confused. When Kazuyo decided to apologize she only granted a more warm smile. *\"Well, if the guests feared my presence there is something wrong. You are not at fault here Ikoma-san.\"* Himiko took the apologies and stared at the gates for a moment. *\"We need to find a way to guard our embassy from both intruders like this and spells like these.\"* Himiko stated. \n\n*\"But do elaborate on the situation Ikoma-san. I wish to learn what happened.\"* She glanced over at the other two \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro mumbled that he would have words with the watch leaders, and let them know that no one was to be allowed into the Embassy grounds proper without prior letter, arrangement, or blessing from someone of appropriate rank. It concerned him greatly that the kami were agitated within the area. He had no idea what it meant, but it sounded important. He was going to let Kazuyo repeat herself a second time, but he wanted to cut to the chase.\n\n\"Someone claiming to represent the Hare, and a Soshi came here to explain that the Hare *I* Encountered were Forest Killers, and should be hunted and put to death, but that is not the most concerning part. Kazuyo, please focus on describing the two people to Kitsu-dono and their mannerisms.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "serann",
"message": "Kazuyo nodded, cleared her throat and repeated what she had said before, doing her best to remember the details. This had always been her weakness: her memory. She had just barely passed the tests of recalling the history of the Lion clan.\n\n\"The two were most strange. The Scorpion spoke, as if scarred in some way that impaired her speech and hid most of her face behind a mask. The Hare seemed very... Stiff. And did not seem to be blinking. It was quite strange.\"\n\nShe dug in her memory. Not blinking... Surely her grandmother had said something about this. About it being a secret symbol of the Kolat. Or it being kami at work. Or animal spirits. Or anything like that, but for the life of her, she couldn't remember it.\n\n||"
}
] | 185 | 7,233 |
237.6 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "It had been dark, all the lights at the embassy had been dimmed down but a few that made sure the security of the place was truly secured. The samurai and several servants had been asleep by now as the time would be around the 2 am period. Only the slight rumor from outside the walls could be heard of the occasionally passerby's. Yet those were not the only ones alive at this hour of the night. One of the doors towards the garden had been remained open, one that had usually been locked. It had been Himiko who had snuck out to sit out in the gardens and count the stars. She had been holding a cup of tea. \n\nThe young girl had looked like a reflection of an ancestor whilst she was lit by the light of the moon. Combined with her white colored clothing and her wild hairs, which for once were not tied down. The scars on her face and body were much more clearly visible now than they used to. Her hollow shell sat on the cold tiles of the ground, staring upwards. Ignoring all that was passing by as if she was talking to somebody that was not there. \n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin was up late as he often was when one of his fits of inspriation took him. Working lates was common for him. During the day, he attended to his duties to the clan. As the evenings allowed, he attended to his buisnesses and trade, which left only the late nights or slow days to his other craft, writing. It was a fickle thing, having inspriation to write, and so when he was struck by the Kami of prose, he had no choice but to obey and sieze the opportunity.\n\nThis time, he had written through dinner time, and had little grasp of what time it was other than by the count of dead candle stubs the space where he did his work. His stomach finally one over inspiration and he slowly slid the shoji panel open to step outside and sneak over to the kitchen for a late night snack.\n\nIt was then that he noticed a shape in the distance, at first he was wary, but the shape was so small he didn't expect it to be a warrior meaning ill will. Instead, it seemed there was only one in the embassy with such a shape and so much wild and untamed hair.\n\n\"Kitsu-sama?\" He called out softly, walking over to where she was resting, \"Is everything well? It's rather late, isn't it?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "The golden and blue eye were striking. As if she was a deer found by a hunter her first response was to flee a situation like this. But within the slightest of moments the Kitsu regained stability and composure. She was simply caught off guard by the appearance of one of her fellow Lion at this time of being. She had almost spilled her tea. She decided to set the cup down besides her for now. *\"I could ask the same in your case Ikoma-san.\"* Her tone was warm and mature. As if she had been pondering about some past memory that granted her either melancholy or the feeling of joy. The child had sometimes been hard to read. She would glance over to him only to invite him to sit next to her. \n\n*\"It is late indeed, I am well. But have you ever watched the stars at this time?\"* The young Kitsu asked. A slight smile grew upon her face. She had known nothing about stars other than that they were gorgeous. *\"You recon stars watch us during day, only to share our stories at night, perhaps that's why they shine so vividly.\"* The young girl would snap out of it however. *\"Apologies, my poor poetry and theories about the stars must hurt your soul to an extend.\"* She chuckled. Waiting for him to join her. \n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin gave her a sheepish smile when she brought up the fact that he, too, was up well past when good samurai had gone to sleep. He moved over to where she was sitting and sat down as well.\n\n\"I have on many a night, though I will admit that I haven't taken the time to do so here yet. I wonder if you can still see all the Fortune constellations here, or if they are different? I have heard that the stars move between the northern most reaches of the Empire and the Southern most.\"\n\nHe looked up into the sky, trying to pick out the constellations he knew stories of, \"I know they venerate Daikoku here, but hopefully we can still see Bishamon's constelaltion watching over us in the night sky.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"You should tell Miu about the fact that Bishamon has his own constellation. She will be joy.\"* The young Kitsu smiled gently before looking at him. She had never truly had a chat with this man and it had been a shame. \n\n*\"What would keep you up this late Ikoma-san? Are you not liking it here?\"* She questioned directly as she could be. Why hide it. She hated this city and many people inside of it. She would stare at her empty tea cup before returning back to the stargazing. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Something about Himiko and this setting left the young samurai feeling at ease. She was his junior yet also his superior. He had not known what to make of her, but Katsuhiro had expressed his admiration for her to him, saying that surely she was a blessing from the kami sent to help the Lion clan. Kenshin had never heard Katsuhiro use such language to praise... Anyone. Ever.\n\n\"My days are in service to the clan. My evenings are in service to my family. The late night... When the ancestors and the kami bless me with inspiration it comes at cost of sleep I'm afraid.\" He gave a light smile and a tired chuckle, \"It has been a long, long time since we have settled into a city, let alone one with a single Noh theater. Here there are *Several* And an audience who has not grown complacent with the classics of the Lion clan. So much as I agree with the Crab on the *Correct* Name of the city, I find myself with the rare opportunity to pursue my art. I long to see a play I write upon the stage.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko would nod her head. *\"I can see how this city is considered inspiring. The people, their crafts, even though you can't see them it's blooming of kami here. I am glad you find yourself inspired to grow in an more artistic way that is. Perhaps a personal way as well, but I am not one to judge since we have not had our fair share of conversations over a good cup of tea yet.\"* One glance towards the building and an attendant came speeding out with a fresh teapot filled with the still boiling substance. She would bow towards the servant. *\"Please, go to sleep, I wished to check if silence had returned. You need your rest as well.\"* She spoke to the attendant who hastily yet carefully poured them another cup of tea. Then simply bowed and nodded her head as she had heard her ambassadors demand. \n\n*\"Perhaps you can join me to a theater one day, I've been to one, met a peculiar scorpion and seemed to not pick up much from the show after because I'd fear her poisoning my tea after I made her previous ambassador stumble.\"* She would slightly chuckle at this statement. *\"Are the voices of inspiration not tiresome sometimes?\"* She questioned. Her nightmares clearly were. They needed to soothe one day. Perhaps this Ikoma could teach her a few things. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin watched the attendant pour the tea then scurry away. He had *Been* That attendant many times in the past. When you were in the court of a Daimyo, it would not due to have a heimin attend you. Instead, it was Samurai, low ranking ones, or third and fourth children of high ranking ones. The peasants might get it wrong. They were not trained properly in etiquette, and in a Daimyo's court, everything had to be *Perfect*. He was please, however, to see Himiko spare a thought for the servant getting some rest. Most just ignored their existence, which was what was expected of a noble anyways.\n\n\"I would be honored to accompany you to a theater. I am passingly familiar with the mythologies of most of the Great Clans. After all, understanding the culture is a valuable tool to understanding the hidden meanings in conversations. Each clan has their own superstitions and mores that would be missed if you didn't know the stories that they told themselves. This is one of the ways in which my training as a Bard has been most useful over the years.\"\n\nHe took the second cup of tea and sipped softly, feeling the warmth spread down through his chest and savoring the earthy, almost petrichor scent of the green tea. And with that, he gave Himiko a conspiratorial, world weary sigh. \"They are indeed tiresome... AND fickle. They are never there when you want them, yet burn like a fire within whenever they come. If I do not get them on paper, I cannot sleep. Besides, good stories are about conflict, so being in the heart of enemy territory makes the mind blaze with possibilities. Much as I imagine my home blazed when the Scorpions attacked it dressed like Unicorn.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had listened in silence. She would adjust her pose a bit to something more informal as, even though there had been a social construct and hierarchy within the embassy, she wished to rest her legs a bit. Her head was tired and thus she put the cup of tea down and put her hands as a pedestal for her head to lean on. She would squint her eyes as if she was trying to focus on his words. *\"I could tell you a true story about my home getting blazed.\"* It was unsure if Himiko had meant these words or used those for simply filling in on his ideas. For all her history had been a wild card within these walls, nobody knew, not even Himiko. \n\n*\"Do you dream about them? Your stories?\"* Himiko tried to break the silence and awkwardness after her strange mention. For all Himiko remembered her dreams had never made sense, that or they either were nightmares. She never broke eye contact with him, she had been truly intrigued with whatever he had to tell her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Kenshin was surprised to hear the words from Himiko about her home being blazed, but he wasn't quite sure what to make of it. He hadn't heard of anything of the like, but he knew very little about their Ambassador other than her official record. But as she relaxed in front of him, he too released a bit of tension and took the posture of old friends reminiscing in the garden at night.\n\n\"Sometimes? Usually when I don't want them to. A bit of taxing paperwork seems to be the perfect time for my imagination to impose itself. Other times I will dream of something brilliant, but it seems especially elusive once the dawn's light finds my face. Each moment I lose more of the thing than the moment before.\"\n\nHe glanced sideways at her, trying to appriase her. She was younger than him, and he remembered clearly how overwhelming so much responsibility could be when you were so young. Kenshin never had a 10th of her responsibility and it had been a lot.\n\n\"What about you, Kitsu-sama? Do you dream of fantastic stories?\"\n\n||"
}
] | 230.5 | 2,376 |
293.942857 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Dragon-Sama we~\" *The older of the two boys began to speak, the child barely seven, only to be silenced as the arm that gripped he and his brother about their middles tightened in warning.* \n\n\"Not. A. Word.\" *The Magistrate grit out between clenched teeth, jaw tight to keep them from clattering as the cold of the evening soaked into their skin. Her once spring green yukata with it's red obi was near brown and murky with water and mud, her vibrant crimson hair now dark where it's strands clung to her face without a free hand for her to swipe aside the offending locks. With each step her sandals and socks made a awful squelch and even now after hauling the two little hooligans this far droplets still dripped from the hem of her clothes leaving behind a trail of meager puddles in the Dragon's wake. The only thing spared the Magistrates impromtu swimming lesson being the Samurai's Diasho which she had had the mind to untie before diving in after the two Lion cubs.*\n\n\"You both should thank the Fortunes I lingered overly long in the gardens or else there would have been no one to hear you fall.\" *The Dragon scolded scowling down at the two boys and cutting a sharp figure in her quiet fury at the thought of what might have been. She had not expected the two cubs to forget their game and try to sneak away from their nursemaid to come retrieve it. In the darkness it was all too easy to take a wrong turn and with only a surprised yelp and a splash their plight might have been easily missed. The roots and vines of the lily's that made the pond so beautiful were just as deadly and a weighted net when tangled around small limbs.*\n\n*Katsumi had no doubt more than one body lay at rest at the bottom of such a pond, but tonight that number would not increase by two. As giving up his attempts to talk his way out of such a plight the older of the two cubs let himself go limp with a whimper. His younger brother already boneless with exhaustion where he was tucked under the Magistrate's other arm. Both children looking like drowned cats as the Dragon heedless of her sopping wet appearance in the face of what would likely become a hoard of panicked and angry lions should the boys remain missing much longer marched with dogged determination up the steps of the Embassy. One squelching sandal at a time as they knocked the wood of their shoe against the door. Having not even the hands to reach for the brass knocker lest their precious, squirming, and most certainly deeply in trouble cargo tried to make a break for it and get themselves in yet more trouble.*\n\n||Lion NPC's used with"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "For a long moment, the door remains closed, as if some Fortune had decided to have fun prolonging the Dragon's plight. Finally, however, the embassy comes to life, and the wooden door slam open. And a pair of eyes stare at Katsumi from the other side.\n\nMiho couldn't be more different from Katsumi in that moment. The woman was, as always, impeccable, her light brown hakama only slightly less formal than her usual clothing. For but a moment, she studies the Magistrate, the two children, and her disheveled. Then, without a word, she moves out of the way and bows deeply, freeing the way for her. \"Samurai-sama. Please, come in, i ll find you new clothes. \" Without even mentioning them, she outstretches her hands, offering to take the kids herself.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*For a time the Magistrate ponders if they will be stuck out here all night. The cold while trying for her posed little danger, but the children beneath her arms had long ago begun to shiver. Considering for a time the diplomatic hoops she might need to jump through should she return to her own Embassy with the cubs her thoughts were thankfully interrupted by the opening of the door.* \n\n\"Lion-san,\" *She greets with as respectful of a bow as the woman can manage with her cargo. Her gaze sliding over the Ikoma taking note of her mon before the Magistrate carefully hoists over the two errant cubs.* \"I could be grateful for dry clothes and a cup of tea should you be able to spare it, but I do not mind waiting for these two to be seen too first.\" *Katsumi assures her as the Dragon nods to the slowly blueing lips and chattering teeth of the tired children as she follows Miho inside. The Magistrate careful as she can manage to not make more of a mess with her wet apparel.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "\"Nonsense. You are a guest, and you will be treated with all honors. We will be taking care of the children, you only think about yourself.\" Her words were a strange mixture of kind and authoritative, which seemed somewhat out place considering the woman probably outrank her. She calls for the attention of some servants, who were already hurrying to the door as they heard it open, and she gives them a few curt instructions: to one, to clear the floor, to the other to escort the Magistrate to a empty room, to another to find her clothes. \"We will be preparing a bath as quickly as we can. I hope you do not mind wearing Lion colours, but they are the only thing befit to your rank. Once you are properly nourished, I would be glad to meet you again in your rooms, to clarify what happened tonight. \" As she spoke, she gave the children to a motherly looking servant, trusting her to take proper care of them. She seemed brusque, almost indifferent in the way she treated them, but as the youngest one starts crying for the cold she does not hesitate one moment in taking off the overcoat she wore over her hakama and draping it over their shoulders- even if they were going to get new clothes shortly.\n\n\"Then, I will not delay you further, samurai-sama.\" She bows rapidly, like a toy soldier with an hidden mechanism, and once the Magistrate turns she makes her way to her rooms, for now her outfit was also ruined.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Magistrate inclines her head with a soft wry chuckle her smile warm, but understanding as she allows the Ikoma woman to sweep her along like a mother lion,* \"You have my thanks for your hospitality Lion-san. I would be flattered to wear your clans colors for the night, though perhaps a set without your clan mon lest we cause unwanted misunderstandings.\" *The Dragon suggests gesturing to the embroidery upon Miho's own clothes.*\n\n\"I look forward to when we meet again,\" *The Magistrate murmurs leaving the woman to her own pursuit of clean clothes as she follows the servant indicated to her. The bustle and efficiency of the Lion Embassy a stark contrast to the reserved quiet of the Dragon's. The bath though is warm, and the change of clean, dry, and thankfully unadorned clothes is a welcome one. The yellow and brown of the Lion clan an odd, but complimentary contrast with the Mirumoto's red hair and green eyes. The woman realizing in that moment that were she not so petite one might easily mistake her for one of the Lion's red haired shugenja.*\n\n*The Magistrate chuckling to herself at the thought as she stepped out into the hall in search of the servant that was meant to lead her from the bathing chambers to the awaited meeting with whomever she was supposed to speak to in regards to the little incident. Only to find the hallways empty at the moment. Resolving to wait the Samurai took her time to inspect some of the art painted upon the walls. Admiring the scene of battle laid out upon it in fine brushstrokes.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro composed himself slightly, straightening his yukata and sliding his wakazashi into his obi before stepping out into the hallways after Katsumi had been put into a room. It had not been sounds that concerned him enough to come charging out of his room like they were under attack, but the wailing of children and commotion in the embassy at this hour disturbed him enough to beg investigation. As he came out, he noticed that Miho was up and about herself.\n\n\"Ikoma-san, what in the name of the ancestors is all this noise about.\" He was not angry, but perturbed at his quiet evening meditations being interrupted. \"Why are there crying children and people running about?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She was just going about to meet back with the red haired dragon, but as she caught sight of her Taisa, she bowed immediately, touching the floor with a knee. \"A thousand apologies, Akodo-sama, I hoped I could deal with this problem without needing to disturb you. A Dragon samurai has brought in two children of our clan, drenched and on the brink of hypothermia. I gave orders to take care of the children and of her, and now I was going to meet her to hear what happened. If my actions displeased you, you have my sincerest apologies.\" \n\nMiho looked hardly different from before opening the door, or from any part of the day really. The only change from her day counterpart was that her hair were in a normal bun instead of her usual complicate style, the \"Relaxed\" Look she used for the evenings.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Dragon in question had remained in the hallway. Her hands folded into the sleeves of their borrowed yukata as they did their best to politely ignore the organized chaos of the Lion Embassy around them. Though as voices drifted towards them from further into the building they weighed the whether or not to approach. The Mirumoto eventually giving the tapestry one last glance before turning on their heels to stride slowly, but with purpose towards what was becoming the familiar voice of Miho.* \n\n\"A thousand pardons Lion-sans, but it seems the servant that lead me has been called away.\" *She murmured as the Ikoma and Akodo would find themselves approached by a rather stunning if petite crimson haired woman. One familiar now to Miho though her hair was now far more vibrant when not drenched with pond water and mud as she gave the two Lions a hesitaint, but warm smile.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro blinked in surprise at Miho's sudden display and explanations. He hadn't ever really given thought to the idea that there were Lion clan members who would have brought their families with them, or perhaps were Lion clansmen who lived in the city that were not part of the embassy staff. This was a large, vibrant city, so he supposed it made sense. He gestured for Miho to rise, and was just about to ask her to lead him to the dragon clan samurai that saved a few of their cubs when a kitsu he hadn't seen before turned the corner.\n\n\"No need to appologize for anything, Miho-san, I just-\" His eyes took in the still slightly damp woman with vivid red hair and wearing a the colors of their clan, his surprise keeping him from connecting the dots for a moment, until she explained herself. Akodo felt his tongue stick in his mouth for a moment before he gave the woman a slight bow.\n\n\"I am Akodo Katsuhiro, and this is Chui Ikoma Miho-san. You must be the fortunes blessed Dragon who saved some cubs of ours I am hearing. I am hoping that the servant ran to fetch our healer, Kitsu Miu-san, I am certain she will ensure that they are well. What of you, miss...? Do you need the attentions of a healer?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She started bowing, but for a moment, the aspect of the woman gave her pause. She couldn't really tell, when she was drenched in water, but now she could only acknowledge that she looked beautiful. *Yes, those hair really aren't dyed... Must be the blessings of a kami.*\n\nShe quickly completed her bow, much deeper than her Taisa due to their difference in rank. It s not like Miho didn't notice these things, she simply did a better job than others at hiding them. And most of all she wasn't going to be manipulated by them; there was always the chance the one behind a pretty facade was an ugly soul.\n*Though she did save the children, apparently... Or was it a ruse to gain our trust? Ugh, I m thinking like a Scorpion now, this city is poisoning me.* She debated asking for a name, but if her lord didn't, it felt unproper to ask herself.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Dragon pauses her gaze washing over Miho and the man beside her as introductions were made. It was clear from the Ikoma's deference that this Akodo was someone of great importance to the Lion Embassy, but with no explanation of his rank Katsumi chose to war on the side of caution.*\n\n\"A pleasure to formally meet you both Miho-san, Akodo-sama. I am Magistrate Mirumoto Katsumi of the Dragon clan.\" *They introduce themselves with a polite bow that matches Akodo Katsuhiro's given the man had not chosen to make clear his rank. The smile that warms her lips as she straightens is one of polite ease and humble respect.* \n\n\"Though it is my belief that those who are fortuned blessed most surely must be your cubs. Please do not allow yourself to be overly concerned. I merely did my duty as a Samurai of the Dragon clan. Who would I be were I to stand aside and watch a child drown for worry of my appearance?\" *Katsumi intoned her words honest though her expression grew clouded at the thought of too many others she knew who might have turned a blind eye in such situations to save face. She however, is quick to set aside such emotions lest they spoil the moment.*\n\n\"Please, I am most grateful for the Lion's care. The dry yukata which Miho-san has been so kind to have offered to me and a cup of tea to warm me is all I need. We Mirumoto are hardy warriors and the cold of a Scorpion pond is not able to compare to the chill of our mountain lakes.\" *She assures them, not wishing the Lions to feel indebted for what she saw as simple duty.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo's dark humor answered Katsumi's rhetorical question with an unfair answer, *A crane, perhaps, would be too concerned with appearance. Though many a Scorpion is just as vainglorious.* But Akodo knew his answer was not fair. There *Were* People in every clan who would do that, but most would not. He had seen the worst of them, but he had also seen kindness in unusual places. He had fought against an Isawa who had unleashed terrible magics upon his soldiers, and at the end of the desperate fighting, had sent healers out to save who could be saved among both sides. People, Akodo had learned, could all be hypocrites, and yet it was still rare for someone to be so truly cruel.\n\n\"Miruomoto, eh?\" Akodo had often dueled against the Mirumoto swordsman as they lived so close to the Castle of the Swift Sword, he had a deep and abiding respect for their skill. He would need to let \n\n\"Please, if Ikoma-san has given you a change of clothes you must be wet and cold.\" He gestured further into the embassy and into the main room where food and drink was often served, and the general gathering place of the Lion clan was, and then retracted his hand. He should not lead this poor woman into the Lion's den. She was much cleaned up, and likely just had a bath given her hair was clean of muck, but it seemed a bit inappropriate to put her in a situation like that. Instead, he directed her and Miho down another hallway and out into a small sitting garden.\n\nIt was tucked away from the noise and more importantly, the wind. He led the two of them out into the small sitting area and gestured for them to sit on some of the pillows which had been laid out. Some of his survey and plans were set out on a nearby table and weighed down by his writing implements, but was otherwise unoccupied.\n\n\"Please, be at ease. We will have someone bring us some tea. Can we get you any food? Kitsu-sama would not forgive me if I let you leave without feeding you.\"\n\nAkodo also thought back to the state of the dragon embassy, and sending her there dressed in lion colors, \"And perhaps a place to say for the night while we have your things cleaned, unless there is someone we can send for your things.\"\n\nAkodo then knelt down onto one of the pillows.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "|| wait do I join this thread?\n\nThen an actual lion Kitsu walked out into the gardens. Eyes colored gold and hair as vibrant and fiery as her personality. She seemed a bit sleepy, as if she was awakened from her slumber by two children sent for her. She was here to bring tea and to report to Akodo. She bowed down to the dragon as she smiled in a friendly manner. Then bowed down to Akodo and set down the tea.\n\n*\"Akodo-sama.\"* Miu stated. *'The children are warm and well. Cleared of all damage. Is there anything else I could support you with?'* Miu asked. The sleepy pose Miu held was quite the sight as normally she was way more vibrant. She had been resting from training as the bruises on her fists were still visible. \n\n*\"Ambassador-sama is not home. She's out for some prayers. Just so you know.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Mirumoto studies the two Lion's with the same open interest with which they study her. The woman's lips quirking into a smile both warm and fond as the Akodo repeats her family name. The interest that lingers in his rich brown eyes igniting a familiar fire within the Dragon's veins that leaves her warrior spirit flaring to life at his assessing gaze.* \"Yes. I see you are familiar with my family Akodo-sama,\" *She murmurs her smile not unkind, but there is the slightest hint of teeth before her lips thin into the a smile closed-lipped and courtly in it's practice. The Mirumoto's eyes though... Oh they* ***Burn*** *Bright and hot as a verdant inferno.*\n\n*The Akodo's sincere concern however, gives them pause as picking at a lock of their bright crimson hair they feel the dampness that still clings to the locks. Leaving the Dragon to incline her head in the face of the Akodo's wisdom. The Lion's hospitality thrice refused and politeness would allow the Mirumoto to refuse no longer.* \"My thanks for your consideration. It would be my pleasure to share a pot of tea with such fascinating companions,\" *She murmurs, manners not lost in the face of her own wants as she carefully smothers the part of her that longs for the ring of steel as all Mirumoto do. Her smile calmer and more natural where it warms her lips. That feral spark gone as quick as a candle covered in the dark.*\n\n\"If neither of you have eaten I would welcome dining with you both. Though if a courier could be sent to the Dragon Embassy to request a change of clothes I would be grateful, but if they are unable to gain access due to the late hour then I would welcome your hospitality. That is if I am not imposing.\" *The Magistrate murmurs.*\n\n\"I am not so proud nor vain to believe there is any shame in wearing the colors of another clan. Not when the Lion have honored me so as their guest.\" *She explain with a bow as the woman settles down at the table. Her gaze drawn to Kitsu Miu as the woman enters to speak to her Akodo host. The difference between the two of them admittedly fascinating to behold between the Kitsu's beautiful scarlet hair, sun kissed skin, and eyes of bright gold contrasting with the Dragon Magistrates vibrant crimson hair, fair skin, and vibrant jade green eyes. The two akin to two sides of a coin as the Mirumoto offers the newcomer a bow of greeting.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had looked over to the Dragon, bowing down deeply in return. *\"My apologies for not introducing myself Dragon-sama. My name is Kitsu Miu and it is an honor meeting you. As for the clothing I will send out a servant and make sure they hurry. If they fail I do have some spare clothing, perhaps more neutral colored. After all Ambassador sama still has her normal shrine maiden clothing. Those are pretty neutral.\"* Miu elaborated on herself as she set down the tea set. Pouring the drink into the cups for the both of them. \n\n*\"As for the food, do you have prefrences on what meal you like? Things you prefer not to eat? I'll make sure to pass that on to our servants.\"* Miu questioned with a bright smile. She was waking up again as she brushed her wild manes back to make sure they looked at least proper. Straightening her clothing within a blink of the eye. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro smiled as they all settled down in the small nook of the garden, and then Miu appeared with even more good news. Akodo's shoulders relaxed almost imperceptibly to hear that things had operated as they should and that the children had been easy for Miu to heal. He offered the Kitsu a warm, pleased smile.\n\n\"That is good to hear, Kitsu-san. Thank you for seeing to them. It would be wonderful to have you join us.\" He nodded appreciatively as she set down the tea and poured for them, \"Here allow me.\" Katsuhiro poured a cup of tea for Miu as well.\n\n\"We can have one of the house staff bring us out some yakitori and maybe some rice.\" As the various members of the Lion clan fussed over the best ways to accommodate their guest, Akodo smiled warmly at the scene before them.\n\n\"So tell me, Mirumomto-san, how did you come to find two cubs in the pond and need to wade in and get them?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"It is a pleasure to meet you Kitsu-san and you have my thanks,\" *They murmured offering the woman a polite bow of greeting. The Mirumoto at first uncertain what to say in regards to their favorite foods as they tried to recall if the Lion in particular were one of the clans fussier when it came to the prospect of meat. Thankfully Katsuhiro's suggestion saved them from any social faux pas.* \n\n\"Yakitori and rice would be welcome. I have heard many good things in regards to the cuisine of the Lion clan.\" *Katsumi murmurs turning a small thankful smile upon the Akodo. A smile that turns a touch rueful and shy as the same man prompts her for her tale.* \n\n\"I'm afraid the story is far from grand Akodo-sama. I had ventured to the Scorpion Gardens to enjoy an afternoon in contemplation and chanced across an abandoned game of Go. I and a Priestess played out the game when we realized the set had belonged to a pair of Lion cubs who had ventured to the Gardens with a servant and had become distracted as children are want to do on a fine sunny day. Having wandered off to play with others.\" *The Dragon begins only pausing to take a sip of her tea.* \n\n\"I cleaned up the board for the children as I felt I ought to do since they had been kind enough to allow me to enjoy it's use and ensured it remained where they had left it before continuing with my stroll. I saw the two children depart with the servant and thought nothing was amiss. I must admit my mind had wandered a bit taking in the beauty of nature and time slipped away from me.\" *Katsumi explains her cheeks coloring just a touch with a fine blush at such an admission as she was not prone to daydreaming, but the elemental kami had been a joy to discuss with and as good conversation was want to do it had distracted her.*\n\n\"I was making my way out of the gardens when I heard a splash and a muffled cry from one of the ponds. Thinking someone had fallen in I rushed over to see your two cubs tangled among the lotus roots and waded in with my tanto to cut them free and haul them to shore. You will have to confirm with your cubs, but I suspect they had in all the excitement of the day forgotten their Go board and in fear of being scolded snuck out to retrieve it before anyone noticed. Unfortunately the evening sky has been clouded and the two children in their haste thought they were cutting across open ground only to realize it was water too late.\" *The Dragon theorizes with an incline of her head.* \n\n\"Truthfully I too had not expected the pond I thought to be so shallow to dip so deeply and was forced to dive to cut the roots. Thankfully my family have always insisted that I know how to swim.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "*She dived in the water? With those heavy robes, she could also...* Miho felt ashamed of her previous thought. If things had really gone as she said, she didn't just inconvenienced herself, she risked life and limb for their kin. And granted, that was what you would expect from any good samurai, but it made it no less laudable.\n\nLaying her hands on the table, she bows her head, almost hard enough to make it bounce against the wood. It came a bit out of blue, given she was silent for a while, but her words were earnest nonetheless. \"Mirumoto-sama. You have our eternal gratitude for what you have done. Tragedy might have befallen on our embassy if you didn't happen to be nearby. If there is anyway I can even attempt to repay this debt, you need only to ask.\" This offert didn't come only from the heart, however. By offering herself to repay the Dragon, she spared Akodo-sama or the Ambassador from offering promises that could have been used against their clan. Better to offer a lesser piece.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Mirumoto draws in a slow breath steadying themselves in the face of Miho's actions,* \"Please rise Ikoma-san there is no need to bow,\" *They urge gesturing for the proud lion warrior to straighten and regain their seat.* \n\n\"Though my clan prefer to pursue contemplation we are not blind to the outside world. Many forget that the Dragon guard the Northern wall, but the Lion's are not counted among them. When the Crane Lands were ravaged by tsunami and food grew scarce the Lion were among our neighbors who did not forget their northern kin.\" *The Magistrate explains their voice slow and steady, but filled with conviction like a dragon unfurling from sleep. They however, tactfully do not mention that the other clan to recall their plight had been the Unicorn.*\n\n\"Though you honor me I will not acknowledge such a debt between us. Whatever obligation the Lion feel towards myself and the Dragon for my actions have already been paid in full by your clan's past kindness.\" *Katsumi states in a tone firm and without room for contradiction. As folding their hands the woman bows low to the gathered Lions.*\n\n\"Though I cannot speak for my Daimyo I only ask that you let my actions show that the Mirumoto family and the Dragon have not forgotten your aid in our time of need.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "There had been a lot of ruckus going on in the compound while Akechi would enjoy his time strolling around the embassy. Some of the servants had been rushing passed him talking about a beautiful woman having saved two of their brethren from an apparent attack or sort. This gives the Lion a sort of flashback to when he first arrived at this forsaken city, although he couldn't overlook the fact they were talking about a beautiful woman from their word. The servants were bringing out some clothes and towels for the guest and the victims, Akechi approached the group and halted them in their path.\n\n\"It's okay, I'll take it from here. How about you all take a break and enjoy yourselves, you've all been working so hard. I don't want any of you to over for it.\" \n\nHe said smoothly as he took the items from their possession; afterward, flipping a couple of coins their way. \n\n\"Drinks are on me, go help yourselves.\"\n\nAfter this Akechi would inject his presence into the scene, and it seemed things were going well, even going a little bit of a history tangent between the Dragon and Lion's past. Approaching the Dragon as he handed off her the clothing: \n\n\"Pardon me, I believe this is for you my lady, hopefully this will suffice. You have my gratitude for saving our kin from danger, if you require anything else please don't hesitate to ask.\" \n\nHe said delightfully as he proceeded to nod in acknowledgment to the rest of the lions at table.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "It was always good to see the clan come together, though Akodo had to work hard to stifle his smile at Akechi. How the man was able to sense the presence of a beautiful woman and manifest an appearance was surely a gift of the Fortunes. Perhaps he was secretly an agent of Benten, fortune of romance. Or perhaps it was time that Katsuhiro and Himiko retained the services of a match maker. Still, the dangerously handsome man was always pleasant company.\n\n\"Akodo Akechi-san, it is good to see you, Please, join us. As you heard, our dear Dragon Magistrate, Mirumoto Katsumi-san, was just telling us how some children stumbled into a pond in the Scorpion gardens and got caught among the water plants until she cut them free. We have insisted she let us thank her properly and celebrate her heroic service to our clan. To do otherwise would surely dampen our honor, not to mention our reputation for throwing a good party.\" A hint of a smile curled one corner of Katsuhiro's cheek. No one would ever say that the Matsu didn't know how to party.\n\nAkodo had been please, if slightly concerned, by Miho's willingness to offer a favor. Surely she did so to protect him from doing so, but any such favors should be addressed by the Ambassador. Thankfully, Katsumi seemed more than pleased to pay back old kindnesses. It was a shame the Dragon didn't have a stronger presence in the city or they might make for good allies.\n\nFinally, he wished to address the words that Katsumi had given them.\n\n\"You do us much honor, Mirumoto-san, for remembering old kindnesses. We appreciate your grace in addition to your courage. If I may be so bold as to inquire on your business, but how long are you to be in Ryoko Owari? Your embassy has not seemed to be very busy, though I have had the fortune of meeting members of your clan here in the city.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Dragon rises slowly from her bow only when Katsuhiro addresses her once more. Revealing the woman's face to the newcomer as she brushes a few stray strands of vivid crimson red hair back from her eyes the irises of which are the color of dragon jade. Her gaze shifting between Akechi and Katsuhiro as she picks up on the man's name before reaching out to accept her change of clothes with a smile.* \"Thank you Akodo Akechi-san I shall keep your words in mind,\" *The woman murmurs allowing the cloth to come to rest upon her lap her hands folded atop it.*\n\n\"And the welcome of the Lion clan has indeed been very warm. I dare say your clans hospitality would thaw even the frozen halls of Shiro Mirumoto in the depths of winter.\" *Katsumi quips with a warm chuckle some of the tension easing from the Magistrates shoulders now that the issue of debts had been carefully negotiated with no ones honor slighted.*\n\n\" I am here to assist the Dragon Ambassador in setting up our Embassy and ensuring our clansmen are well settled within the city in addition to some family business.\" *The Dragon admits preferring honesty in the moment as there was nothing in her words that could not be known by simply walking past the Embassy itself in it's current state.* \n\n\"As for how long my business within the city shall last I am uncertain. I will remain at least through winter and until such matters are settled unless I am assigned here on a permanent basis.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She keeps herself from rolling her eyes as Akechi enters the room. She respected greatly his skills and the Kensei style, but she highly disapproved Lovers might have been the norm in Rokugani society, but such relentless pursuit of multiple targets seemed illogical and shameful to her. Not to mention dangerous; she half expected him to find his end by the hands of a jealous Matsu or a vengeful Bayushi. Still, she had to give him props, that clothing had allowed them to reciprocate her \"Gift\" Without serious peril for their cause.\n\n\"Pardon my insistence, but is there any way we could help with that? I assure my request is not out of obligation, but to further the spirit of friendship you radiate through your example.\" *And see what else you ll be up to.* She added in her mind. This woman intrigued her, in more ways than one. And besides, it wouldn't hurt to get the Dragon on their side, even if their presence in the city was minimal. *Maybe find out this family business of hers, and help out with that... Gratitude goes both ways.* She didn't feel like this scheming of hers was dishonorable. As long as there was no breaches of Bushido involved, she saw nothing wrong with strategising on her moves, like a good commander should.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "The Lion nodded at the request of his Akodo brethren, taking a seat next to the dragon samurai to indulge in this exchange. Picking up a pot of tea and serving himself a drink, proceeding to serve the rest whose cup was empty:\n\n\" I agree, we should return the favor for her act of heroism. Although, not before our esteemed guest tends to her needs— I'm sure you would like to refresh yourself in a bath before anything. You are more than welcome to use our accommodations, hopefully, they'll serve your standard of beauty, my lady.\"\n\nAkechi would say with a cozy smile as he began to indulge with his cup of tea. Showing a sign of satisfaction with either the delicious or the fact their new acquaintance sounded like they will be staying here for a prolonged period from the looks of it. His attention would then set to his other brethren in the setting, Ikoma Miho, surely a renowned samurai. Although they admittedly haven't had a whole ton of interaction one thing he could tell of is her passion and dedication to serving— some would say even to an extreme. Even though this was the case, he couldn't help but feel her relentlessness to help the dragon felt out of the ordinary. Not being able to point to why exactly that was but he would keep note of it for the time. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Magistrate observed the Ikoma woman with half lidded eyes as a wary calm stole over the dragon's deep jade orbs. This woman would be one to watch. Yet the reed that bends before the howling wind outlives the tree which breaks. The crimson haired samurai pausing as they pretend to consider both Akechi and Miho's words. Their refusals of the Lion's favors now numbering three. To refuse a fourth time risked more then the Mirumoto was willing to gamble.* \n\n\"Very well I cannot bring slight upon the Lion's generosity.\" *Katsumi murmurs offering those at large a short bow of acceptance her gaze flickering beneath her lashes to Katsuhiro to see what the man thought of the on-going proceedings.*\n\n\"There is one thing I would ask of the Lion if you would see fit to grant it,\" *The Magistrate tactfully demurs,* \"With the Dragon's late arrival within Ryoko Owari Toshi we are still seeing to the establishment of our embassy and it's grounds. To watch the carp play brings many of my clan great peace, but our pond yet remains empty. I have heard that the Lion clan has many fine fish within their gardens. I would request a few such Koi should you be willing to part with them for my Clan's pond. That way when I walk beside it's banks I will ever more recall how I first came to visit the Lion's Embassy.\" *Katsumi murmurs thinking upon the tales of her Father and his stories of the Akodo and their apt punishment and rewards. Of the story of the soldier who's carelessness had lead to him shooting another samurai's horse only to be forced to carry the samurai's equipment like a beast of burden until he could pay for the victim's steed. Thus the reward of a couple of brightly colored koi for a woman who had dove into a pond to save a pair of cubs seemed delightfully ironic enough to hopefully appeal the surrounding Pride.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro leaned back in his seat, thinking about the Mirumoto's words. It was certainly not equivalent to the task she had done, but he did enjoy the symbolism of it. Even though he had just stocked the ponds with new koi fish as he had only just built the pond, what she described was the purpose of this. He wanted something of each clan to tie them together, but in this way the symbolism would carry through to the Dragon embassy as well.\n\n\"A wonderful thought, Mirumoto-san. These gardens you see around you are my current project, but I would be honored to have some of our koi fish bear the symbolism of friendship between our two embassies. I shall bring them over myself once I pick out the proper koi of suitable honor to represent our clan.\" He would not, after all, give her some fish that would not last in their pond. He would have the find the heartiest fish of the ones he had bought.\n\n\"Tell me, Mirumoto-san. Do you practice Niten? Or perhaps Kyujutsu? Akodo-san here is a graduate of the Akodo Kensei sword school and sensei of our dojo, while Ikoma-san is gifted with yumi and arrow. Akodo-san has been with the embassy for a while now, and is much more familiar with the city than we are, but Ikoma-san and I have worked together for many years now. Since before the Battle of Cherry Blossom Snow Lake.\"\n\nThey had all been so much younger then. Miho and Hotaru especially, but even himself. The memories of that battle, or the Oni and the goblins, of the Onikuma tearing a path through everything in their way at the behest of the Kitsu shugenja. An array of the empire's entire force. More gruesome death than he had ever seen before.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She had half expected another rebuttal, but at the Dragon s answer, she almost (almost) smiles. *Hm, clever idea.* Yes, this Dragon intrigued her.\n\nHowever, this amusement of hers quickly faded as her Taisa mentioned the Battle of Cherry Blossom Snow Lake. Truthfully, she hated to remember that day, not just because of how horrible it had been, but because it had been a shameful experience for her. Twenty and still green, she almost froze at the horror unleashed by the Shadowlands. Luckily, she had been with the archers, which provided her a healthy distance from the monsters, but if she had been in the melee, she would have definitely frozen and died. Overall, it had been a learning experience, it had taught her she wasn't unshakable, but it was one of those lessons you didn't relish in recalling. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "After everyone's imploring to celebrate the heroic actions of the Dragon Magistrate the chances for refusal would be unlikely. Proceeding to continue to indulge with his cup of tea as the magistrate would indeed accept their proposal, although he wasn't expecting her to request some of their Koi fish from the ponds. He had no involvement regarding this request so he didn't see fit to make any decisions, this surely was something for his brethren who had an involvement in these endeavors to give a response. \n\nHe would anticipate that there would be no issue with the request, and see how they all would benefit with a possible alliance with the Dragon. Although that didn't intrigue the samurai as he preferred to stay out of the political discourse but was did set his gears up was the mention of the type of practice she preferred. Now this was something up Akechi's alley, a faithful follower of the way of the blade. Settling his cup down startled:\n\n\"I admit, I am rather curious too about your preference my lady. As my Kin said, I specialize in the way of the sword and would be more than pleased to aid you in refining your technique if you so desire.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"My thanks Katsuhiro-san. I am certain the koi shall become the pride of the Dragon Embassy garden's.\" *The Mirumoto murmured with a polite bow of gratitude beforer turning their attention to sipping their tea. The Magistrate's gaze flitting from one Lion to the next over the rim of their teacup her eyes light with amusement and intrigue. Though the Akodo's question and the mention of the Battle of Cherry Blossom Snow took the woman aback.*\n\n\"I like all Mirumoto am a practitioner of Niten Akodo-sama, but I am no master of the style. I would beseech you to not judge my clan by my humble skills.\" *She murmured as her attention shifted to Akechi her.* \"Though I am not opposed to a spar that I might keep what skills I possess sharp. Though I fear my family's style has mostly seen it's use through myself in less formal settings then that of a dojo.\" *Katsumi explains careful to not mislead the Lion into believing she'd wielded her swords in any fight aside from those of life or death lest they expect the refinement of a duelist from her countenance.*\n\n\"Though the Battle of Cherry Blossom Snow was among one of my clan's darker days.\" *The Mirumoto murmurs her eyes downcast. She had only ever seen Togashi Yokuni from a far distance in the rush of the army to reach their destination, but she recalls vividly their slow procession back and the bright flame of the funeral pyre.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro realized too late the darkness he had cast upon the group with the mention of the battle. While it certainly was a memorable one, it was one of many more in his memory than that of most of the younger samurai. Akodo had seen war before Cherry Blossom Snow, but it had been many other's first time. He bowed slightly to the group.\n\n\"I apologize for speaking of such dark memories. As you say, it was dark days for many of ours clans.\" A member of the Lion clan had betrayed the Empire in that war, and they were still paying the price for his actions. Rightly so. But it did not due to dwell on it or the Shadowland incursion into the Empire. The only time in living memory that the wall had fallen.\n\n\"I fondly remember the competitions between the Ninten school and the Kensei school. While not a Kensei myself, I had the honor of going to your lands for a tournament. While I am not without skill myself, I am certainly no duelist. Battle on the open field creates several habits which are not appropriate for the dojo.\" He chuckled softly, remembering the display between himself and Matsu Kozue, who tackled him in the middle of a duel.\n\n\"But we would always enjoy different sparring partners if you would like to make sure of our dojo. I am sure Akechi-sensei grows tired of telling us the same thing over and over again. New blood to practice against would prevent our skills from growing stale.\"\n\nHe glances over at Miho, the ever dutiful officer, a bit of pride touching his earthen eyes, \"Ikoma-san is very gifted with the Yumi, but I have yet to find anywhere to practice within the city other than setting up targets in my garden.\" He gave a laugh that came from his belly at the idea of archery in his garden.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "turans",
"message": "She didn't want Katsuhiro to apologise for this, it was *Her* Problem if she wasn't capable of speaking normally about that day. If the crabs could weather that all year long, so could she. Hopefully.\n\nStill, she didnt mind the change of topic. She took the compliment as a good retainer should, bowing her head as if to say she s unworthy of this praise, but honestly, it wasn't true. If there was something she was proud of, was her skills with the bow, even if she was not as good as she wishes she was. Her goal was to obtain a position of command in the Lion armies, but if she somehow failed, she wouldn't have minded becoming an Ikoma archer. The bow simply spoke to her In a way no other weapon did. \"I think i ve found a solution to that, Akodo-sama. I have learned of a more than suitable Kyujutsu dojo in the city, staffed by the Tsuruchi. It won't be necessary to spoil your artful garden for my practice.\" Of course, she didn't seem to catch the joke. She glanced at the Mirumoto, from under her eyelids. \"Fear not, Mirumoto-dono, Akechi-dono is no Kakita; his style was designed to be used on a battlefield, before than in duelling grounds. I am not nearly as good as my lord and Akechi-dono, but if you wish for a less skilled adversary, I will always be available.\" She was actually quite interested In seeing how she fought; she had never seen Niten with her own eyes, at least in a real life situation. It was deadly, by all accounts, but she was curious to see just *How* Deadly it was. *Besides, who knows when I might face a Mirumoto in battle.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "\"That is no issue, I quite enjoy going up against new styles, no matter what the level of expertise of my opponent. Learning can occur any many different ways and forms.\"\n\nHe said reassuringly, taking her suggestion of not being a fully committed swordsman. Agreeing with his Akodo brethren with his statement of enjoying teaching and even learning from new applicants that come to his dojo. The conversation would take a little dark turn with the mention of the Battle Of Cherry Blossom Snow, which he refrained himself from speaking about. Afterwards, the Lion would look at Miho, chuckling before mentioning to the Ikoma: \n\n\"Don't sell yourself short now, your quick-draw might need some refinement but your skill with the blade is nothing to scoff about. \"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"As my Father would say, \"If Gardens were not meant for kyujutsu then why must stone lanterns make such fine targets?\" *She jests recalling the old commanders antics with fondness. Though the woman stiffens slightly at the mention of the Tsuruchi attempting to smooth aside her concerns with a sip of her tea.* \n\n\"I thank you for your understanding in regards to my skill Akodo-san. I fear I will never be able to truly do my families style justice, but I would be happy to offer you and your students a spar. Like the Kensei style Niten flourishes like a lotus in the muddy waters of the battlefield more then the cultured garden lilies of the Kakita.\" *She quips with a soft wry smile over the rim of her teacup.* \"Though I must admit I am pleased so many arts of the sword find root within the melting pot of Ryoko Owari Toshi.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro set down the finished skewers of food and his empty cup of tea and put his hands on his knees, as if ready to stand. He looked around at the group of the samurai and gave a slight smile, \"I am afraid that I must retire to a few duties before the night is over.\" He bowed his head to the assembled Samurai, slightly lower to their guest, and then rose to his feet, being a little ginger with his bad knee.\n\n\"Mirumoto-san, if you wish to stay the night then we will make rooms available, otherwise;\" His gaze shifted over, \"Ikoma Miho-san will escort you home if you should desire to return to the Dragon embassy. We cannot thank you enough for the service and friendship you have shown the Lion clan. I am certain I speak for the Ambassador when I say that we shall remember your service here.\"\n\nThe Taisa slid his hands into the sleeves of his yukata and then made his way back inside.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Thank you for your kindness Akodo-sama and for the kindness of the Lion, but I am certain my kin by now have grown worried in my absence.\" *The Mirumoto murmurs offering the General and those at the table a bow of respect.* \"If you do not mind I will take a moment to change and be on my way. Though I am grateful for you lending me Ikoma-san as an escort.\" *She murmurs straightening as the woman slowly rises from her seat to be lead to a private room to change into her change of clothes. The evening surely one that will linger fondly in her mind for some time.*\n\n||"
}
] | 274 | 10,288 |
215.694915 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana couldn't help but feel a bit awkward as she made her way through where the Scorpion resided, towards the building where Bayushi Kaori had been placed under house arrest. The past little bit of exploring her suspicions around the women's disappearance seemed to yield one shocking revelation after another. She wasn't quite sure how to take it all, or how she should feel about it. Regardless, though, a friend had asked her for a favor, and if Mai herself wasn't after anyone's head, then Kana saw no reason why she should feel that way.\n\nThat said, there was still a certain awkwardness to her smile as she approached what she was certain was the right building, Do the two of them speak as if nothing had happened? Pick right up where things were when Yume-san had chased off the woman? Do they address it? The woman was under house arrest, so obviously she would know that Kana knew *Something*. What did the state of things between their clans suggest?\n\nThere was nothing for it but to enter and find out, though. So with that, Kana cleared her throat, and before entering, announced her presence.\n\n\"Bayushi-san?\" She asked loudly and clearly. \"It is Moshi Kana of the Mantis. I believe Rokugo-san may have told you I was coming. May I enter?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The little Scorpion looked up from where she reading *Lies*, frowning through the bars. She wasn't wearing her mask, but otherwise she was as well dressed and groomed as she could manage. She glanced at one of the yoriki apes and shrugged. \"This is not my house, but I have no objection.\"\n\nIn typical Scorpion fashion the building was a little misleading. It looked like a fairly comfortable estate from outside, but within it was a prison as bleak and hard as any. The cells were individual, fully exposed except for a small toilet closet. This was not a place clan samurai were normally held, unless they were facing public execution the next day. \n\nThe door was opened after a moment and a yoriki eyed the Mantis curiously. He kept his personal remarks to himself, though. \"Moshi-sama, you are expected. Please, come with us. If you have any weapons or other items forbidden to prisoners please, leave them here...\" He gestured to a small visitor's locker area. \"For your own security.\"\n\nHe continued to brief the Mantis as he escorted her past barred rooms. \"You have permission to enter and interact with the prisoner but you may not give her anything. Contraband will be confiscated and destroyed, and she will be punished for accepting. Do not take anything from the prisoner. We will be standing by, if she makes any sudden or aggressive moves just try to get clear and we will restrain her.\" \n\nHe gestured to the forked spear meaningly. \"If you need her restrained before you enter we can arrange that as well. The Ambassador is taking a strong interest in this case and she is known to be dangerous.\"\n\nThe cell he led her to was at the end of the corridor, but otherwise as bleak and exposes as the others. Kaori was standing by now, her face carefully neutral, interested to see who'd come to visit. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana tried not to let her surprise show too much as she entered the rather gloomy looking holding cells; she had been under the impression that this was a case of house arrest. In reality this seemed anything but. Given Mai's own stance on the matter, this seemed decidedly extreme; she couldn't even imagine the Phoenix who was rumored to have unleashed lightning in the Leatherworker's quarter had to endure it.\n\nThen the mention of the ambassador.\n\n*Of course.*\n\nKana nodded, holding out her arms to reveal she had no weapons on her, and proceded along to the cell, following instructions as directed. Looking at Kaori, she once again had to hide her surprise at the woman being without her mask. She bowed to her, and offered a smile. Where she was, and learning more of what happened and where the clan stood seemed to have assuaged Kana's concerns.\n\n\"It is good to see you again, Bayushi-san. Would that it was under better circumstances. How fares your arm?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "A Mantis? Not the mantis she wanted within arm's reach, but interesting enough to alleviate her boredom. She bowed. \"My arm throbs with every heartbeat. I think I set myself back last night, something crept over my feet and I flung out an arm. It is bruising now. The skin is still knitted, but that is the only good thing I can say.\" \n\nShe glanced at the door. \"Forgive me for the squalor, I cannot offer you a cushion to sit on.\"\n\nThe yoriki rolled his eyes and unlocked the door, the iron grating heavily as it slid back. \"You know the rules, prisoner. Break them at your peril.\" \n\nThe facial scar kept Kaori's face pulled into a smirk, but she ignored this jibe, taking a single step back to make room for her guest in the close quarters. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana's look turned to one of concern as she stepped into the cell. \"I take it there had been no care then since our last meeting then...\" She spoke softly. \"No need to apologize for the conditions. I confess, this is... Not what I had expected, but no worse than some of the ships I've been in.\"\n\nShe chuckled a bit, rubbing the back of her head. The encounter was thankfully not as awkward as she feared, though the guard hanging over them didn't exactly make things any better. \n\n\"If it please you, might I take a closer look at your arm and make contact as needed?\" She asked, making sure to follow the proper protocol.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion turned slowly to glance at the yoriki, who stared back, clearly unmoved. She sighed and carefully turned her right side away from the bars and the man's line of sight. Every movement was with exaggerated care, being very careful to give no excuse for intervention. Her left hand rose to loosen her top, sliding it down her shoulder so her right arm was exposed. She wore it slung, bound tightly to her chest to avoid inadvertent use, and clearly it pained her to disrobe even partially in front of the guard. Once she'd removed the layers she beckoned Kana to approach. \"Do what you must, Moshi-sama.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana made sure to give a displeased look to the guard before looking more closely at the arm. She was professional as she conducted the examination, very carefully adjusting the sling to look at the condition of her arm on the surface. She would gently press on the arm im various locations, asking Kaori how it felt in each spot.\n\n\"How is your range of motion, Bayushi-san? When your pain is particularly bad, are you able to describe it at all?\" || Medicine 3 ||\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"It feels like the muscle wants to separate and roll back in each direction.\" The biceps had been nearly severed, and while Mai's intervention had brought the fivers back together the connection was always tenuous. \"I can extend it with some discomfort, but flexing back is still impossible.\" \n\nShe wriggled her fingers. \"The pain is constant. When my heart rises it throbs worse. I would describe it as a four to an eight, on a scale to ten. I can keep composure only by the greatest effort of will when it is bad.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana nodded as she listened to Kaori's description. She seemed somewhat more open about how much it was affecting her than when they last spoke; whether that was true, a fault of Kana's memory, or something sustained here remained to be seen. She would gently massage around the elbow below the injury, taking care not to press too hard. She would pull back if she sensed the discomfort being too much for Kaori.\n\n\"Does the ambassador allow medicine?\" She asked, keeping *Most* Of the contempt put of her voice as she asked the question.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"My servant can bring me food and clothing, but she is unsure of the medicine she could bring. Neither of us wished to provoke further punishments. I would not see her targeted as well.\"\n\nShe grimaced as the monk squeezed her arm, letting the woman see where her pain was. \"I was managing the pain well enough on my own though.\"\n\nOpium was a wonderful thing. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "*Of course.*\n\nKana fought back at her disgust once more. She didn't see why the woman should be denied *Medicine* For an offence that the victim didn't have any desire to pursue. Hopefully Yuto's report would soon alleviate the situation. For now, though, she needed to think about treatment. Which was...\n\nWell, what were the options? Exercises might help with building strength and long term rehabilitation, but it seemed cruel to go through that when she'd be denied any sort of medicine for pain management afterwards. Likewise with therapeutic massage. Tears of Heaven and further invocation of the Kami might have also been helpful, but were useless unless she could be taken outside for the Kami to act.\n\n\"Well... There are options we can explore once the situation is resolved.\" She offered. \"For now, there are some exercises we can work together on, but I will not lie to you, Bayushi-san. The discomfort will be difficult to work through. It is why I leave the decision in your hands.\" She offered a small smile to her. \"I can offer you my reassurance, however, that I will not push beyond what is safe, and that we can stop when you require it.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"The pain would be a welcome distraction,\" Kaori deadpanned. \"You may act as you see fit. I may need all the strength in my arms to conclude this ordeal.\"\n\nThe implication of ritual suicide was delivered with the same implacable calm. Kaori didn't know what Mai's gambit was, sending this monk to attend to her, and she didn't want to give any hint of concern until she understood. It would shame her ancestors to allow an enemy any hint of satisfaction.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The Magistrate had made his way to the residence, heading towards the holding cells where Kaori was. Having been rather late to the appointment for Moshi Kana to tend to the Bayushis injuries. Hoping he wasn't too late for anything to happen, he saw his Yoriki standing guard. Smiling he patted one on the shoulder before entering the building, going down the stairs to see if the mantis had gotten a head start. While he didn't doubt Kaoris compliance there was the agreement with the mantis to be honored. If anything had happened to Kana Mai would have killed him. \n\nFollowing behind Yuto, dwarfed by his stature was a familiar servant. One belonging to Kaori that brought a change of clothes and a meal. Tori kept her usual body language and mannerisms, despite the slightly warmer setting of the visit. Things looked up, but were still uncertain. The samurai on the other hand brought a set to play Shogi and a tea set, with ~~opium~~ pain medicine concealed in his sleeve. \n\n\"Oh shit.\" \n\nHe whispered upon seeing Kana already in the cell and tending to Kaori. Nodding to the Yoriki he and tori had entered as well, settling into the cell as they'd help the scorpion woman deal with their struggles. \n\n\"Moshi-sama, Bayushi-sama, I uh, brought umm... Stuff.\" \n\nGiving a bow to the two of them, he eventually sat in the corner letting them work. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah! Rokugo-san.\" Kana paused to bow towards him, smiling warmly. Making note of the tea, clothes, and food, it seemed that being a Magistrate was enough to help get past some of the restrictions Kaori was facing. She would have to make note of this.\n\n*Perhaps he might also get it to a point where the three of them could speak with some privacy...*\n\n\"Don't you know it's improper to swear around ladies?\" She joked. \"Very fucking improper indeed!\" ||Disadvantage: Crude||\n\nHoping the humor would lighten the mood somewhat, she turned back to Kaori. \"Very well. What I'm going to do is help with some extension exercises. I'll assist you, then you try it yourself. If it's too much, let me know, and we'll know that will be the limit for today, okay?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Black eyes cut to the Magistrate, and her body relaxed slightly. Whether this was a genuine easing of stress, or a martial artist gathering herself to strike would be difficult to guess. She remained aloof in features. \"Do your worst, Moshi-sama,\" She said grimly. \"These walls have heard worse.\" \n\nShe'd shrieked worse last night. \n\n\"Rokugo-sama, forgive me for my lack of decor... Our guest is here by the will of the Mantis Ambassador.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Rubbing the back of his head at Kanas joke, he was truly surprised to see the mantis here. Slightly embarrassed by being caught swearing, Yuto wasn't one to have a potty mouth. Some things did catch him off guard though, such as this interaction. Though he chuckled at her returning the banter, somewhat surprised to hear the goody two shoes shugenja even knew what a verbal curse was. \n\n\"As a matter of fact Bayushi-Sama she's here as my guest through my request! Figured since I interrupted your last session I ought to make up for it. Though I do apologize for my being late. I was uhhh...\" \n\nHe didn't want to tell them what he was doing. What did the Magistrate do? Well he wasn't going to spill! \n\n\"Don't mind me or Tori, we're just here to... Liven up the room?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, I am here with Moshi Mai-sama's permission, but here of my own choice. Rokugo-san requested I help you, and I can certainly see why, and after some discussion, well...\" She rubbed her head, and chuckled awkwardly. \"I did promise to aid you. And as it happens I did enjoy your company. Truly.\" She offered a genuine smile to the both of them.\n\nShe began to gently move Kaori's arm out of the sling. \"I won't insult you by asking how things have been, I can certainly see, but...\" Kana paused for a moment. She tried to think of how best to phrase what she was going to ask. \"Have you been able to stay hopeful through all of this? I can speak to at least some of the work that Rokugo-san has done to help you.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "There was a great deal of implications she wasn't following. This only added to her sense of social claustrophobia, so it was a miracle that she was able to stay polite as she responded. \"Unfortunately I am without any knowledge of the dealings beyond these walls. All I know is what I am accused of.\"\n\nShe glanced at Yuto. \"I'm sure that Rokugo-sama has been doing his best to uncover the full meaning of this event, but hope counts for little against the will of the Ambassador. He has already destroyed me, this trial is merely the screen to his motions.\"\n\nPain shot through her arm and she gritted out, \"If Moshi-sama has had a change of heart and sends you now for my forgiveness there is little value in the song of a broken sparrow.\"\n\nShe wasn't ignoring Yuto, just... Distracted.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "While they spoke and did exercises the Magistrate was setting up tea, having four cups set out. Figuring the woman's servant was going to stick around and clean she ought as well have a drink. \n\n\"You'll have to forgive my absence from these walls, aside from the investigation at the embassy, writing up the report, and doing some thinking to make the truth of it all. It's been rather time consuming. Though I do believe the exhausting efforts will bear favorable results to you Bayushi-sama.\" \n\nYuto did everything he could and that was the truth, Mai literally made a statement to get the woman free but as Kaori stated. Junichi may have sought this further, of course they'd have to wait and see but it was expected. \n\n\"How's the physical therapy going?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "An expression of indignance crossed Kana's face momentarily. She had been sympathetic, understood that Kaori had been kept in deplorable conditions, and that there was more at play here than the pursuit of justice.\n\nYet the notion that Mai needed *Her* Forgiveness? When she wasn't the one pursuing this? When she hadn't forced Kaori into making the decisions she had in the first place?\n\nKana paused what she was doing, and took a deep breath. She chalked the comment up to stress and anger at her situation, which was understandable if misdirectsd. She considered even with the guard present, she would be able to pass along this message. \"Actually, Moshi Mai-sama \nWished me to give a message while I was here. She wanted you to know she harbors no hard feelings or ill will towards you.\"\n\nShe took another breath. \"However, don't take that as me being here as a messenger. I was asked to give this message only because she knew I wished to come here and would be able to deliver it on her behalf. Regardless of this message, my friendship with Rokugo-san and his request, I am here because I want to be. There is nothing more to it.\" She met Kaori's gaze. \"I promised to help, and I enjoy your company.\" \n\nShe then looked over to Yuto. \"Well, we are about to begin. We're going to work on some aided extension exercises. The goal is to help rebuild strength and facilitate healing.\" While she answered the question, there was somewhat of a hopeful look in her eyes. If everything was done and it looked like it might end favorably...\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"The evidence of my surroundings is a strange contrast to your words,\" Kaori gritted as her arm was stretched once more. \"Ambassador Moshi is not a fool, her words are darts feathered with deadly purpose—ah!\" She broke off, her eyes closed, panting hard. \"Again! Do it again!\" \n\nThere was no denying her tenacious desire to recover. Her eyes cast back at the yoriki and caught the man grinning like an ape behind Yuto's back. She would curse him and all his spawn, and furthermore should she catch him on the street alone she would thrash him black and blue with a stick. That mental image was enough to get her through the next series of exercises, though she was pale and trembling by the end. \n\nOne of the two ambassadors had assassinated her. The other was the knife, unwitting tool. Kaori was still unsure which was which, Kana's words had not been able to confirm the identity of her enemy. Her hair was sticking to her forehead and she panted like a stag at bay. \n\nTori did her best to set up the tea table while keeping her eyes averted. She knew better than to witness her mistress in the throes of such pain. She was still extremely deferential to Yuto, but her cringing fear had abated somewhat. She was careful to give the guards a very wide berth. \n\n\"Lord Rokugo-sama,\" She whispered as another nearly silent cry rose from the cell, \"Would you care for some kind of musical entertainment while you await my Lady's pleasure?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Kaori took these things personally it seemed, harboring harsh feelings toward Junichi and Mai. It was quite understandable, though at her sharp glare Yuto himself noticed the Yoriki behind him outside the cell. Gesturing as he would shoo the man away, with the Magistrate here there was nothing going down. Having no need to pester them with their presence, he sent the Yoriki men away. At least to guard outside the room where their eyes and ears couldn't reach the ones in the cell. \n\n\"Now, now Bayushi-sama, Moshi Mai-Sama wrote a statement regarding your case. She absolved you of any crimes you were accused of. Considering the allegations it's quite favorable, this could have ended much worse.\" \n\nYuto took off his mask, setting it aside as he'd twirl it on the floor like a top. This new mask he had wasn't much to his taste, but he dealt with it in silence. Though he almost spat at what Tori said. \n\n\"While I await her wha-ummm, sure! You two don't mind do you?\" \n\nInquiring to Kana and Kaori. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana once again paused at the implications being thrown towards the Mantis clan's way, biting her tongue nearly hard enough to draw blood. She knew she had to keep quiet though, in the presence of the guards. The last thing she needed was to say anything untoward. It was already difficult enough not telling them to avert their leering, sickening gazes elsewhere while she worked.\n\nThere was also the reminder that she might also say some things that might anger others if she were going through such pain without relief.\n\nShe waited until she had calmed before continuing the exercises, more slowly now, so as not to risk reinjury to the wound; the way Kaori was approaching this, pushing too hard too soon might be a legitimate concern. Despite her offence, though, she managed to offer words of encouragement.\n\n\"Excellent work, Bayushi-san! The dishonorable will be fearing you in no time at this rate!\"\n\nShe took a small break once Yuto had sent the guards away, though, breathing a sigh of relief, remaining quiet until they were out of earshot. Once Yuto had revealed the information, though, she broke out into a big grin.\n\n\"Excellent!\" She spoke in just above a whisper. Hearing that seemed consistent with her own conversations with Mai as well. \"I am glad to hear that indeed.\" She then turned to Kaori. \"So, hearing this from Rokugo-san, does this satisfy your concerns about my presence and intentions? Or do you still think I come here to taunt and prolong your suffering?\"\n\n\"Oh, and as for the music, I don't mind at all.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Once the guard was out of earshot Kaori turned to the two samurai. She was panting, her skin pallid, and her eyes glittering. \"Moshi-sama, Rokugo-sama, I do not doubt your good will or intentions,\" She said. \"Nor am I ungrateful for the efforts you have made on my behalf. But you must understand, your words are incense that fills an empty shrine.\"\n\nShe was trembling, although that might have just been the pain of her therapy. \"Do you not understand? I am Bayushi Kaori, the most lethal duelist in this city. Even wounded as I am I could go through the noble Rokugo-sama as a hot knife parts snow. But this trial has already painted me as so incompetent, so untrustworthy, so *Broken* That I am no more than an attack dog! That I am even now chained behind the gate, to be beaten and fed scraps and mocked with soft words while my masters decide where to unleash me! I am no Lady of the Scorpion, I have been reduced to a creature barely tolerated in a cage!\" \n\nShe pointed a finger like a dagger at the two of them, her lower lip trembling. \"*Your* Ambassador put words into the ear of *Your* Ambassador and he did this to me! And nothing, nothing under heaven will restore what the Scorpion have cast aside at the word of the Mantis! So while I am most grateful that you two wish to ease my worries, you both should understand that the future is irrelevant, that you are shutting the door after the child has already strayed. That I am already lost! Do you understand me at last?\" \n\nShe was all but weeping at this point. Turning around she pulled her hairpins out with a furious jerk, letting a black silk veil cascade over her tears. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "If it wasn't already somewhat awkward it certainly did just now. Anyone would have acted the same way she did in this situation, no, perhaps they'd have broken much sooner. Yuto couldn't imagine being locked away whilst their reputation went asunder. Even though this case was being treated delicately and in confidence, on the inside damage had been done. The pain wasn't just physical either. Paying no mind to the comment of being cut through like a hot knife to snow, the Magistrate knew who was truly being insulted. One was trying to find the words, but couldn't.. \n\n\"I cannot, rather, will not pretend that I understand. You've been insulted, stripped of your honor and dignity, belittled and reduced to a mere cage. Over mere non proven accusations that don't warrant such behavior towards you..\" \n\nYuto wasn't good with words in moments like these. But he'd speak his truth, unable to lie about sharing the woman's understanding. Taking a breath he continued. \n\n\"Only you can ease your worries and restore what has been taken from you. I'm not very good with sayings, but in your darkest hour resides your greatest moment. ~~I think that's how that goes..~~ But I believe after this great struggle, you'll stand taller than you ever did.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was taken aback by the sudden outburst, for a moment left with naught else to do but blink helplessly a few times. While she refused to believe that Mai went to Junichi to pursue the matter, the hurt evident in Kaori's voice managed to cut through. After all... What other conclusion was she supposed to draw? If Kana were in her place, would she really come to any other conclusion herself?\n\nClosing her eyes a moment, released her arm, but left a hand upon the woman's shoulder, her touch meant to be comforting rather than therapeutic. A faux pas, to be sure, but it seemed proper etiquette was out the window right now. There'd be time to reason things out (after all, why would Mai turn her in only to work for her release so soon afterwards?) For now, though, Kana knew enough that this wasn't she was needed right now.\n\n\"Bayushi-san,\" She spoke softly. \"What has happened to you was unjust. You should never have been treated this way without a chance to defend yourself. To treat a Samurai in this way before any judgement has rendered speaks to the honor of the one responsible, and they will have to answer to the heavens for their conduct,\" She spoke.\n\n\"Yet the heavens do not call for you to answer to them yet, Bayushi-san. As along as you yet draw breath, it is not too late. It is as Yuto-san says,\" She glances back to him. You may yet stand taller and stronger after all of this.\"\n\nIronically, the taller woman would hunch down somewhat to meet Kaori's gaze, but would do nothing to force her to return it. \"What hides in the shadows can only hide for so long, as Amaterasu's light will always return, and illuminate all beneath it. There is always an end to the night, my friend.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Her fire spent, like the volcano's fury, Kaori held out her maimed arm again. This was not a demand for service but the silent plea for distraction, for the fire of pain to burn her grief out. \n\n\"In better times I shall remember this,\" She said softly. Whether she meant the advice and succor or the actions that had placed her here, she left unspecified. \"And my memory is long...\"\n\nShe sighed and wiped at her face beneath her hair. \"So, Minna-samas,\" She said, changing the subject, \"How has the world changed in these last few days? What latest gossip or juicy scandals have rocked our world? What news from the capitol?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Remaining silent as Kana then spoke, it was nice to hear someone outside themselves sympathize. In truth the Magistrate couldn't say much, partially blaming himself for this happening. He may have been able to dispute the allegations, but at the time there was no way of doing so. Upon seeing a subject change this was the best time for him to jump in.. \n\n\"I can't say much is new but uhhh, did you notice my new mask?\" \n\nInstead of a red half wolf mask this new one was a gold and red primate, covering all of the scorpion's face instead of just the lower half. It looked a little more ornate and fancy than the other one, being slightly uncomfortable to wear but he just dealt with it. \n\n\"After losing my old one I figured something else was in style. I've also begun reading uh, a certain book!\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana smiled a bit as the woman seemed to find her resolve. Letting her hand rest on the shoulder just a tiny bit longer, she then moved to continue the exercises. \"Just three more repetitions, then we will end it. Your muscles should not be overworked, and I can't provide a full treatment program as is.\"\n\nGlancing back to Yuto, she tilted her head slightly. \"...That is indeed a new mask, Rokugo-san. If I may ask, what happened to the previous one? Where did you lose it?\"\n\nAs she continued to work, she then thought a bit to herself. \"Sometimes I wonder if I may benefit from a mask. On account of my disfigurement. I know some who have said it doesn't make them think me less attractive, but I don't see how that can be true.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"It is an excellent mask, one that suits you well. The lines of the last drew your face to a point that was unseemly. This one gives you a fuller, more masculine air.\" \n\nKaori hissed through another rep and wondered if her muscle would twang like a bowstring when it split asunder. \"Moshi-sama, the pain is nothing... This I can bear, and will bear again, if it means I can return to my full strength one day sooner. Do not let my grief stop you... If my body can bear it my mind will as well.\" \n\nShe gritted her teeth before adding, \"One must be whole whatever their fortune.\"\n\nTori had fallen silent at her mistress's rant, her intention of drowning out Kaori's pain with song now obviated. She was busying herself with what cleaning she could manage around the crowded cell, dusting and sweeping and turning down the futon. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "There was a look of shame and shyness as Kana asked about what happened to the old mask. Would he tell her? Mai was relatively an open book and might have done so, should the Scorpion just be honest? No! He wouldn't tell them he practically proposed to the ambassador, it wasn't exactly a proposal but treated like one. Luckily for him she went on and spoke of herself, replacing his expression with that of disbelief. Could she have been insecure of her scar? \n\n\"I don't think a mask is the answer, Moshi-sama. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, and I believe the days would fall dull in every honorable one's eyes if you hid Amaterasus light. I hear you mantis choose to live free on the sea, shrinking behind a mask would be unbecoming of your nature.\" \n\nIf there was any doubt or insecurity Yuto sought to reassure the woman, hoping he didn't lay it on too strong. Though soon after he pouted at Kaoris comment on his old mask, only finding such shade in what was said due to preferring the old one. This new one completely hid himself, and it made his face hot and uncomfortable! Besides, he thought the old mask was more intimidating and cool. \n\n\"I suppose... But my old Mask was given to me b-with better interests!\" \n\nDid that make sense? Yuto didn't seek to talk about himself nor give lead to pry into his life. \n\n\"What about you Bayushi-sama, haven't thought about taking on a new veil?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, I do not doubt your spirit, Bayushi-san. You've more than proven your strength there,\" She explained, helping her through the final rep. \"Healing is a long road, however, and pushing too hard too soon might serve to set you back or worse, make your injury permanent.\" She offered a slight smile. \"Rest assured, friend, just as I will not push beyond your limits, I will not limit you unless necessary.\"\n\nYuto's compliment, however, managed to break through Kana's composure for a moment, the tips of her ears and her cheeks starting to glow pink. \"Ah... I um... T-thanks Rokugo-san! You are very kind to say so!\"\n\nShe smiled awkwardly and rubbed the back of her head. It seemed to be enough to distract her from the question of what happened to his other mask.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"I have a mask,\" Kaori flicked her finger wearily at the white porcelain mask with the broken cheek mended in gold. \"And my lace mask... And there are others.\" She gave Yuto a warning look through her hair. She didn't want to discuss masks in front of an outsider, friendly though she may be. When her exercises were finished she excused herself and headed for the wretched lavatory where she cleaned her face with a few drops of water from the jug and attempted to make herself presentable. \n\nHer hair pinned up again, her face serene, her arm howling with pain, she came back out and rejoined the group. Kana's remarks had struck a deep nerve, since her own soft cheek had been mutilated by a crossbow bolt, and she had never reconciled to the fact she was marred so deeply. Hopefully things had turned to lighter topics. Watching Yuto make the Moshi blush could be amusing. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "He had a bright and genuine smile, speaking his truth towards Kana as he wished to not see her saddened by a scar. Now that he thought about it, they all had scars on their face... It then raised the question, how did they all get their wounds? Should he dare ask? \n\n\"When I received my scar, I was ashamed. I felt dishonored, ugly, it was before my Gempukku so I couldn't hide behind a mask.\" \n\nReflecting on his childhood, he remembered all too well of how he acquired his scar. Though he wasn't sure if that was the most appropriate tale. If he wanted to know their stories he'd have to share his own. \n\n\"When I was a boy, I was much more arrogant and angry than I am now. I picked a fight with a drunken ronin and got my face slashed, I almost lost my life and barely won. First time I ever killed a man.\" \n\nUsing a finger to caress the scar that fell over his nose and cheeks, it healed well, but was quite a notable feature when one was up close. \n\n\"What about you two?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana offered a polite smile as the discussion turned to masks. She knew it was something special to the Scorpion, and perhaps not a discussion meant for her as an outsider. She quietly finished helping with the exercises, and stood back, letting Kaori leave for the lavatory. \n\nWhen she returned, she offered a bright smile to Kaori. \"You look as beautiful as ever, Bayushi-san,\" She spoke genuinely. It has been the first time she would have seen her without her mask, or without her hair covering her face, and while she did speak sincerely, she knew enough of the Scorpion to know this was not something done lightly. She seemed to pay no mind to the scar; it would seem Kana was much harsher on herself, treating what she would view as a flaw in herself as nothing such on others. \n\nAfter listening to the story, visibly surprised to learn Yuto had been the type to start dangerous confrontations, she winced upon hearing the question from Yuto. Kana did not mind answering herself, but had a feeling given the state she was in, Kaori would not be so open to it. So... She jumped in right away.\n\n\"I am afraid my own tale is nothing so daring, Rokugo-san. I was out exploring one day as a child, climbing trees, digging in the dirt, searching for insects, frogs, and other such things...\" She chuckled. \"When I encountered a wild dog. In my eagerness and curiosity, I approached the dog as though it were friendly. It... Turned out to be anything but.\" She shook her head. \"Sparing the graphic details, he left me with my own scar. At the very least, it seems an extension of my smile?\" She chuckled.\n\nShe then went right in to asking Yuto to continue his own story, giving Kaori a chance to be spared if she wished it. \"If I may ask, Rokugo-san, how did you come to fight with the ronin? Did he do something to offend you? You don't strike me as the type to go starting unneeded fights...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Bayushi bowed at the compliment, and then sat back to allow Tori to bring in the tea service. She had her arm bound up once more inside of her kimono, and the angry throbbing left her oddly content. She'd had a good vent, as good as any, and the pain meant she was getting stronger. For all her consternation earlier she considered it a day well spent. Certainly better than counting stones once more or laying in wait for that horrible mouse to show itself once more, geta poised like a scorpion's tail. She did snort softly in amusement at Kana's words, remembering the Magistrate's lack of subtlety that had gotten her into a fight or two along the way. \n\nTori placed the tea set between the three of them and bowed out of the cell once more, retreating a respectful distance and bowing low to await any needs during the refreshments. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The more Yuto spoke about himself the more he realized how much he hated it. Did he have nothing but embarrassing stories? While some would look poorly on his tale others would believe it to be a feat that a young boy defeated a grown man. Though the Magistrate simply looked at it as a humiliating story. \n\n\"That's why I prefer Turtles.\" \n\nThat was his only response to Kanas tale about the dog, while it was true Yuto did prefer turtles he simply had no other way to respond towards such a story. The magistrate being socially awkward was beyond an understatement. \n\n\"When I was a boy my family treated me like an outcast for the most part. Guidance and education weren't given to me, only a sword was. So there was a point where I didn't know any better. I don't particularly remember how the fight started, only how it ended. I guess we just didn't like each other? That or he ticked me off.\" \n\nYuto was prone to anger and in many situations had to suppress it. There was no telling what he'd do when losing control, luckily over the years he developed much discipline. \n\n\"I've dreamed of being the best swordsman for a long time, so perhaps I just swung on him? Can't say, all I know is my younger self was impetuous and something to behold. Of course if I had acted so rambunctious toward the wrong person I wouldn't be here.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana seemed genuinely surprised to hear the story. Yuto had always struck Kana as a gentle, affable sort. It was shocking to get her head around the idea that he was the type of person who could take a life and not even remember why.\n\nAll the same... She knew the expectation to speak highly of one's upbringing, or at least downplay the flaws. She wasn't so naive to think all Samurai grew up with proper care and tutelage. It left her not quite sure what to think about the whole thing. \n\nStill... He had become a friend as well as far as Kana was concerned. For now, that was enough.\n\n\"For what it is worth, I am glad you are here today, Rokugo-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Kana was right, Kaori didn't care too much about other people's misfortune but she felt her own quite keenly. She avoided the question of her mutilation and focused on the group, listening to Yuto's story with appreciative noises. \n\n\"Glad I am that you are my friend too, Kana,\" She added. And despite her weariness it sounded very nearly sincere. Probably just the emotional fatigue after the outbursts earlier. When Tori retreated Kaori began to serve the tea. It was her cell, after all, so she took the role of hostess. Working slowly with her one good hand she poured out refreshments one at a time, bowing, gesturing silently for people to partake without interrupting the flow of conversation. \n\nIt was a good time... A gentle time... She could almost forget her troubles. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "And there it was, he was already regretting telling such a story. Not only did he hate telling it but could feel it didn't sit right, only leaving him with an awkward feeling. Before the man could go and bang his head against the wall, Kaori had begun serving tea. Giving a bow from his seated position he took a cup, staring a bit toward Kana to respond. \n\n\"Thank you Moshi-sama, I'm gl-content with being here too. And I'm most happy over the breakthrough in this case, I expect you to walk free soon Bayushi-sama.\" \n\nYuto couldn't say he himself was happy, he wasn't, but there was a bit of cheer to his face as he brought up the investigation's potential conclusion. Putting this behind all of them were the man's intentions, hoping he had recovered enough to do just that. \n\n\"I'm sure you're eager to swing your katana after the arm is healed Bayushi-sama. You know Moshi-sama, I didn't know how to perform Iaijutsu or even study it until she taught me. Kenjutsu itself was always my greatest strength, but I find the rush in quick drawing to be very fun!\" \n\nHim stating it was fun told one everything they needed to know, never truly believing his life could be in danger. The samurai was truly arrogant in a way, but he hadn't failed yet and didn't expect to do so. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana offered a sad smile, making note of how Yuto had amended his statement. Despite her shock, she found herself somewhat more sympathetic towards him, making note that even if he remembered little, the guilt still stayed with him.\n\n\"Your work in that case, then, is admirable, Rokugo-san. I ah...\" She lowered her voice slightly. \"I hope you are able to get to the bottom of how this began and escalated in the first place.\" She dared not give specifics or offer a theory, of course.\n\nAs she held on to her cup of tea, letting the warmth soothe her fingers, she glanced between Yuto and Kaori. \"Truly? It seems you both have multiple talents, in that case! Myself, I could never be an Iajutsu expert. I much prefer to deal with matters more up close and personal.\" She chuckled, seeing her cup down to flex an arm jokingly. Even then, though, her muscle definition was evident. \"I don't know that it's the same rush, but there's some thing about a contest of wills, naught between you but your hands.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Yuto is not unfamiliar with that sensation,\" Kaori murmured into her tea very softly before she drank. She looked rather pained at the Magistrate's words. \"In truth all I showed him was the basics, he did the work at the dojos. He's a deadly warrior now. I look forward to seeing him in practice. Perhaps in time, with the right senseis, he could rival any from the east. I have heard there is to be a dueling tournament in the next few weeks. Will we see the skill of the Magistrate on display?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "It was surprising to hear that a Shugenja out of all people preferred to handle things up close and personal. Was Kana more rowdy and rambunctious than she was letting on? He thought for a second but threw the thought away. Never being one to make split second judgements, though he wouldn't lie in its humor if such was true. \n\n\"I envy you Moshi-sama. I've always wanted to learn with my hands more, but I find a sword is always in one of them.\" \n\nIt was then Kaori spoke about him specifically. Was she giving him praise? Blinking a few times he pinched himself to see if he were dreaming, either she was being genuine or the Magistrate was going to die very soon. \n\n\"I've entered the tournament. Though I'm not sure how to feel about it yet. If rumor spread of my skill then everyone would know not to toil with me, although my size is intimidating many would assume I lack finesse. Between the three of us I was thinking about flunking out, but I'd not wish to dishonor my opponent.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh? Well, it's never too late to start, Rokugo-san! I think there is a dojo being opened up to teach such things. A Crab Samurai is running things, if I remember correctly. There is also to be a hand to hand tournament if you'd like to watch. I'll be entering, as a matter of fact!\"\n\nListening to Kaori's praise of Yuto, then to hear he was considering disqualifying himself from the tournament was a bit of whiplash, to say the least. \"If I may ask, why would you consider that? From all the things Bayushi-san and you have told me, you sound as though you'd have a very good chance of winning. Why even consider disqualifying yourself?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Bayushi snorted. \"Oh do not speak nonsense, Yuto-san. You would never insult your opponent by giving them less than your very best. I have every confidence that you will fight with all of the skill I have imparted to you. And when you carry the day, those within the city and without will know that the Scorpion have one honest samurai in their ranks. You will have no choice in the matter.\"\n\nShe flicked her hair back. \"When shall this hand to hand tournament take place? I should like to observe your skill, Moshi-sama.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Hearing of a Jiujutsu dojo was surprising, and exciting! That and a hand to hand tournament? That seemed to be more fun in his eyes, while he pursued the sword he had great respect for those that fought without. Perhaps he'd ask Kana to take him to the dojo sometime. \n\n\"I'll definitely make sure to watch, I hope to see you win it! Observing other fighters could be an opportunity for myself as well. Perhaps you'd be willing to instruct me sometime!\" \n\nThen there came the questions of why he'd do such a thing from Kana, and Kaori pitched in too. While they both were right, Yuto had a reason himself, though it was weird to say. \n\n\"Well, I'm a man of no reputation as of now. It serves me well in a fight. Due to my size people think I'm slow and without skill, relying solely on my strength. I don't like a man knowing what I can do before I fight them. Though I guess since I'll be fighting noble Samurai and not bandits or ronin criminals it'd be dishonorable to not let them know. I don't know, perhaps I should drop out altogether.\" \n\nThe Magistrate was unsure of how to answer, and uncertain of his answer. \n\n\"That probably didn't make any sense, did it?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah, thank you Rokugo-san! It means a lot to know there will be people cheering me on. As for your question, Bayushi-san, It will be on the Tomodachi Maru in a few days time. ||Note: She'd have the exact date ICly, but OOCly I don't actually know it >_|| With Rokugo-san's hard work, I have every confidence I'll see you in the crowd that day.\"\n\nThe topic changed to lessons, and she nodded eagerly in agreement. \"Of course! While I'm perhaps not as knowledgeable as some, I would happily share what knowledge I do have about the art. Let me know a day agreeable to you, and I will find it in my availability to work with you.\"\n\nListening on, she found herself able to understand Yuto's point somewhat. She knew well from her own work that as frustrating as it could be, there was a certain strength in being underestimated. When people assumed she was empty-headed and naive, it meant they were all the more likely to be less cautious, allowing her to be better able to do the work of investigation. Still, she personally couldn't ever imagine dropping from a tournament and a chance to win honor for her clan simply to preserve that.\n\n\"I'll say it is a bit unusual. The choice, however, remains yours.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion princess gave the magistrate a withering look before gesturing at herself. \"Yuto-san, subverting expectations is *My* Area of expertice. While that time is now past, nobody has ever seen me draw steel and lived to tell of it. I do not spar and I do not train openly because my skill, like the Scorpion, is best experienced. Yet I must evolve with the times, and create a new reputation. If I can do it, you certainly can. Some of us must remain in the light so that others can work unmolested. That duty is yours, and now it is mine too. So if *I* Can compete in the tournament, and compete cleanly, you can do no less.\" \n\nShe glanced at the Mantis. \"But if you *Must* Fall early in the bracket, I can assist you in making it seem believable. After all, I lost the topaz championship in a way that convinced the wisest swordsmen in all of Rokugan, and I was only seventeen.\" \n\nThere was no fear in speaking so openly in front of the Mantis. At this point, any further accusations of misconduct from that quarter would just seem like victorious crowing. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Now he was starting to feel bad for not entering. Could being more interested in Kanas tournament be a sign? Well if it was to win honor for the scorpion he'd do so, especially seeing that was something they NEEDED. Yuto wouldn't call himself honest, but he was certainly one of the brighter scorpions in the city. If he were going to enter, he'd have to go all in and claim the victory. The rewards were good too, he could use a new sword. \n\n\"I guess I'll give it my all then, it's about time I got a new Sword. Mine is starting to give way, I prefer cheaper swords. The blade doesn't make the swordsman after all!\" \n\nHe was actually becoming cheerful at the idea, clenching both fists in front of him smiling. There were a few ideas on how he wanted to draw, but nothing stuck with him yet. Though he was interested in whether Kaori would enter. \n\n\"I think it'd be swell if you entered too Kaori-sama, perhaps you can gauge my skill before the tournament. You are the only one to ever teach me Iaijutsu after all.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana looked a bit shocked at Kaori's comment. She certainly had no intention of just laying down in the tournament, no matter the bruises she might spare herself by doing so! As stiff as she knew the competition would be, she knew she stood a damned good chance. Or at least she believed she did.\n\n\"I appreciate the offer, Bayushi-san, but should I have to fall, I think it best to convince people that my opponent would have had to have fought for every inch of ground. That said... I would be most intrigued to hear your story! You competed for the Topaz Championship?\"\n\nShe leaned forward slightly, both excited to hear the tale, and happy to see that Yuto seemed to be feeling much better about competing.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Well, I did well enough in the prequalifiers,\" Kaori hummed softly. \"I broke a bokken over a Lion's head and goaded this poor Phoenix into making an utter ass of himself. But the real tournament was going to be the next day. Now I didn't want to be noticed, but I didn't want people knowing I threw the tournament. So I impeded myself. I stayed out late with the other young samurai, I met these two young men, we shared a bottle of sake and then...\" She covered her mouth with her hand and giggled. \"Then they shared *Me*.\"\n\nShe waved her hand. \"The next day I could hardly walk, let alone duel. I didn't look like a skilled warrior holding back, I looked like a fool who was out of her league.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Listening to Kana ask Kaori, the man didn't know she had entered a competition before. This was certainly an interesting topic, though of course it seemed natural for her to already have competed in one. As she explained the Magistrate listened intently, impressed that she overcame a Lion and a Phoenix in the matches. There was a certain comfort in knowing his teacher was already an esteemed Iaijutsu combatant. It was then he completely spat his fucking tea out over her comment, two young samurai shared her!? How many people did the woman sleep with? It seemed going through windows wasn't all that she was guilty of. He coughed to get the liquid stuck in his throat out, but as she went into more detail the Magistrate couldn't handle the information. \n\n\"T-That's, I-I think I'm d-dying! Be right back.\"\n\nHe definitely wasn't coming back. Standing up the Samurai tucked his mouth into his elbow crease, vacating the cell as he went up the stairs and into the other room. Choking and coughing the entire way up, little did the two know this was Yuto completely LEAVING. As he had no idea of how to respond towards such a thing, not wanting to show visible disgust and disappointment. Though the words Kaori spoke did genuinely make him choke on his beverage. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"OH!\" Kana soon felt the tips of her ears turning red, then her face, and then her whole head as she listened to Kaori. For someone who only alluded to having been in a certain ambassador's bed, she was very frank with the discussion of group sex! \"I, um, well...\" She stammered, taking out a fan and covering her face. \"I suppose that is not the worst way of throwing a battle...\"\n\nThen she only *Narrowly* Dodged Yuto's spat out tea. Sure, the news was a bit, well, abrupt, but the least he could do was give some warning before spraying at the both of them!\"\n\nShe blinked a few times as she watched Yuto leave, taking a moment to try and comprehend what exactly had happened, and why he was reacting so badly. She understood being flustered, but it seemed rather dramatic to go charging up the stairs...\n\n\"Ah, um... Do you think he'll be all right?\" She asked Kaori awkwardly.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The little Scorpion watched Yuto flee with a smirk, inwardly giggling like a maniac. \"Oh, I think he'll be all right,\" She said lazily, leaning in to confide, \"He is as the untrodden snow, if you understand what I'm saying.\" \n\nShe sat back and dabbed at a stray bit of spittle. \"I don't know why he's shocked, I have always been clear about the sacrifices I have made to build the reputation that would serve the Scorpion best. Whether it is seducing clan ambassadors or giving my chance at true matrimonial happiness such heartbreak that he flung himself from a roof.\" \n\nHer eyes were cold now, hard as basalt. \"You must think me a monster, Moshi-sama.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Rokugo-san? Really?\" She looked genuinely surprised by the revelation. \"Not even a dalliance? I suppose I could see how overwhelming it might be in that case,\" She noted, overlooking the hypocrisy of her own blush only now starting to fade.\n\nThe sudden turn the conversation took, however, was even more unexpected. She wasn't quite sure how much of what Kaori said was the absolute truth, and how much contained a seed butnwas embellished with a flair for the dramatic. The first confession she knew she had heard a slightly different version of, at least.\n\nRegardless of how she chose to process it, though, the question remained.\n\nShe chose to answer it honestly.\n\n\"I do not. Some of what you've done is not a path I would choose myself. Not that I'm a prude or anything of the sort...\" She rubbed the back of her head. \"However, it would be a lie to say I never had such questions of what I myself have done for clan and honor. The tenet of compassion doesn't allow a magistrate to hide from the harshness justice sometimes demands...\" She trailed off. \"Were I to open up all my actions for scrutiny, you may well find something you would consider monstrous.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Then let us speak no more of it, lest we convince ourselves to leap from the roof hand in hand,\" Kaori said briskly. \"Regardless of the sacrifices we have made, we are here now—and there are duties still to perform. When the time comes we will die in service to our lords, but let us not be over-eager to hasten that day. I am sure my lord still has many things to put me through before I am done here in this city.\" \n\nShe smiled grimly. \n\n\"Once I am at liberty to move about once more there are certain tasks I still have to do. The assistance of a Mantis, a magistrate no less, could prove invaluable. If I come to you and ask for your assistance, on behalf of the people of this city, can I count on your assistance? Or will your duties forebear action alongside a former ally?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Indeed, Bayushi-san. As Samurai we may be asked to die for clan or honor, but I've no intention of doing so prematurely. Let us live instead!\"\n\nThe next matter was not quite so easy to respond to. There were other factors to consider, her having been burnt when she made a similar pledge to another Scorpion was amomg her concerns.\n\n\"In such a situation, I can promise I would listen. If I am not required to act against my clan or allies? Then I would gladly work with yoi for the good of the city and its people.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"I would not ask you to do anything against our duty to the Son of Heaven,\" Kaori said, which meant almost nothing at all but sounded better than 'that I would not do myself'. \"That is good to know. I have a feeling that my summer will be busy. I will want strong allies when I move against the wicked. Your clan has proven itself to be competent in some matters. I promise, I will not ask you to risk yourself half as much as I have.\" \n\nShe glanced down at her wounded arm, a not so subtle reminder of the price she'd paid for trusting Mantis intelligence. \"But I fear I am starting to bore you with my singular company, Moshi-sama. I would offer to walk you out, but the guard may grow alarmed if I leave this cell and I would not have him fear the wrath of his masters.\" *Before he feels my own* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana nodded in response to Kaori. What exactly the \"Wicked\" Were in this situation would remain to be seen, but she had meant it when she stated she was seeing Kaori as a friend. The idea of working together certainly did appeal to her, and she was reassured by the fact that Kaori seemed to hold no love for that certain other Scorpion either.\n\n\"Oh, rest assured, you would have to try hard to bore me, Bayushi-san. That said, if you would prefer some time to yourself, I would be happy to grant that to you.\" She smiled, rising, and reaching into her pouch, producing a slice of what looked like Yuzu. \"From a stand that produces candied fruit at the docks. I do not know if you've much of a sweet tooth, but if you do, well... It appears your guardian is still at break.\" She smiled, and bowed to her. \"Thank you for meeting with me, Bayushi-san. Hopefully the next time I meet you for therapy, you will be out of here.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 191 | 12,726 |
446.722222 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "Junichi's Estate rested toward the southwest end of the Noble Quarters. Unmistakable to the attending patrons of the party as both his property and koi pond were lined with flickering red paper lanterns. \nIt was a modest home, most aptly described as tastefully sensible with keen attention to the landscaping. To the side of the house was both a storage shed and the koi pond. The pond itself was designed to look as if it was natural to the land, dotted with a few clusters of small trees upon the gentle slope of the water's edge. Nestled between two of the outcroppings of trees, toward the back of the pond, was a small concrete shrine dedicated to the Kami Benzaiten, the goddess of beauty, reason, wisdom, wealth, and the arts. Behind it was a simple wooden storage shed with only one entryway, a door barred from the inside. \n\nAt the front of the house was a pristinely kept grassy courtyard centered by a massive cherry blossom tree. Just beyond its wide gnarled branches were the open black double doors into the main entrance of the house. A bench seat wrapped halfway around the back of the tree where three Geisha were sitting, each playing a different instrument. The woman on the left-hand side played the flute, while the woman sat in the middle played drums, and the woman on the right played a shamisen all while very beautifully singing in a voice both tender and sweet.\n\nOnce through the doors of the home, one would immediately enter into a large entertainment space fit with an abundance of comfortable seats and small tables. The Geishas' music could be heard echoing evenly throughout the space from outside. More of which were inside, dancing, serving food, and pouring drinks for the arriving attendees making their rounds.\n\nFurther back was a large dining room table filled to the brim with a variety of assorted finger foods, desserts, and drinks galore. To the right and left of the dining room were more private sitting rooms. Both were fairly similar spaces, furnished with a few chairs and paintings of exotic landscapes. The only difference being that the left wings sitting room contained a beautifully intricate kamidana, obviously crafted by an artisan of the Phoenix clan. Its most notable feature being the five great elemental dragons perched along the top of the roofline. This space was a little more somber, somehow much more quiet than the rest of the home\n\nAside from the main areas open to the party, the rest of the house was divided into two separate wings. The right wing of the house contained the bath and both Junichi's bedroom and private study, with the latter of the two rooms being locked with Junichi himself keeping the only key. The left wing contained the kitchen and the servant's quarters. This was the wing that connected to the same side that the koi pond was on with a door exiting directly out to it.\n\n————————————————\n\nJunichi was of course already making his rounds as the guests began to arrive. He was easily spotted amongst the crowd. This was in due part because of his tall stature, standing at 6'0\", but also because of the silken haori he wore which proudly bore the mons of the Scorpion Clan at his back. Of course, he had to be adorned in his finest kimono for the evening. Dawning a deep red hakama, that smoothly tied into the midnight black of his crimson-trimmed nagagi concealing within the folds of his waistline a tantō, with a blade length of 8\", a little unorthodox... Though something truly profound was the fact Junichi was not wearing his mask. It was a tradition amongst the Scorpion to have the highest-ranking officials wear their mask, even at informal events. Yet instead, Junichi had it holstered prominently at the left side of his chest. The pristinely white mask was rather strangely composed. It was segmented into small squares, each set at its own varied level in no particular order. At the top of each face of the squares were eight tiny concave pinholes; nearly impossible to see unless one was studying the mask up close. However, the mask took a new form once faced head-on. Its chaotic segmentations would disappear to the eye, instead appearing to exist all on the same smooth plane. Only when the mask was correctly orientated could one see the hidden message written on it. Some of the pinholes had red paint lining their edges, creating the kanji for \"True/authentic\" (真). It was a very meticulously and well-crafted mask meant to make a statement.\n\nTruth be told it was rather difficult to see clearly out of his mask, especially in low light. Though he also wanted to try and set the standard that such an event was informal. Junichi wanted to culminate a relaxed atmosphere, free of the daily stresses and formalities that ruled his life. It was rare for him to take time for himself, let alone mingle so freely.\n\nThat and he truly wanted to show *His* Face. So often did Junichi wear his mask, sometimes feeling as if he's forgotten the face behind it... Uncertain to when the blue in his eyes had finally gone completely gray. A change that made his face show more solemnly than ever, practically emotionless. Just today he had practiced smiling to himself for almost an hour, for some reason it just didn't look quite right to him, and he was unable to figure out why. He could only tally these quirks of his to his list of why it probably was he had no potential suitors. Now it was up to speculation if it could be his mask. It wasn't like he was unaware that veils were supposedly in style, but to attach with it a rumor that those who hide their faces were more than likely not very *Pleasant* On the eyes? It was *Diabolical.* But if tonight was supposed to be *His* Night to be noticed then he should not have to wear it. After all, it was no small secret this party was for him regardless of how he tried to spin it in his letter. Not to say it wasn't wise to capitalize on the opportunity to better know his Clan. He was not ignorant to the fact one was only as strong as their associations.\n\nJunichi had no doubt there wasn't going to be even one person walking through his door without a game for them to play. Though it was rare to be so boldly invited, but how else would everyone know that there were certainly some high stakes waiting to be explored? *There was simply no better way to spend an evening.* All he could hope for now was for more *Curious* Individuals to finally make their appearance. Until then he remained as cheerful and pleasant as a host could be whilst mingling among the growing crowd."
},
{
"author": "taenarius",
"message": "Kiyo was very punctual, an early arriver to the party, even despite her personal distaste for these sort of social gatherings. They were all just so tiresome. Still, it was her duty to attend, and she would not be entertaining any hint that she would be derelict of her duty. Worse still, she was technically one of the movers and shakers of the clan. The Tansaku may not be the most prestigious or powerful family, but even a vassal family member has sway when you sit at the top. Kiyo (for her faults) would one day sit at the top of that family, she had been named her father's heir. All this lead up to a situation where she needed to show up early, and stay the whole time, and ugh... Even make nice with people. It's a tragedy.\n\nShe would graciously bow and introduce herself to her host first. She did see him at the rally, but she left long before things really got going, the crowd was too intense, the scene was not to her taste. She would offer the man the bow of an equal, he was the ambassador now (wasn't the lieutenant governor supposed to take over? Wonder what happened with that), and that made them rough equals, even if he did have authority to give her orders. \"Tansaku Kiyo,\" She would introduce herself when there was a free moment to speak with Soshi Junichi, \"I handle the wards in the city\". Her face looked no different than normal, she wore no mask by default, and her facial expression was a common one of passive boredom.\n\nAs the party fills up people would notice Kiyo towers over most at the party standing at 6'1\". Her dress is a finer kimono than normal, although the design lacks any sort of artistic flair, and is mostly just quality fabric of solid color. She forwent her usual heavy gloves and scarf, although she still wore thin gloves to cover her hands."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Yuto had never been invited or even attended an event such as this, not being such an important figure the man questioned whether or not he should bother coming. Seeing as he was invited he couldn't help but feel rude if he didn't, nevertheless he treated it as a mission. Being prudent himself he arrived early, but not certain if he should even go. A nervous feeling drowned the Junshin, maybe he could come up with an excuse, but that'd be lying! Needing to show face he straightened up, preventing himself from pacing outside the very man's house. \n\nHe'd arrive not too long after Tansaku Kiyo, not having met her yet; that was something he'd desire after introducing himself. The Rokugo was rather impressed by the man's residence, it was humble despite having its own flair and amenities. Having prepared a gift that would be a surprise later, first he'd enter and greet the man. Having already introduced himself prior at the rally, he'd humbly bow and speak. \n\n\"Soshi Junichi-Sama, it is an honor to be invited. Congratulations on your new installment, I look forward to working with you.\" \n\nRokugo Yuto stood 6'2 over everyone, weighing 200lbs so he had a very broad figure. Usually he wore all black on duty, wearing rather cheap clothing he didn't worry about getting dirty and tattered. Today was different. He wore a crimson kimono with midnight black accents, wearing a hakama to match. Draped over it was a purple haori, making the outfit really pop. On the cloak's back was the Scorpion mon, whilst he had a matching band wrapped around the arm bearing the Bayushis symbol. The vassal normally didn't wear his mask so he had no issue with that, his traditional scorpion mask was bound to the other shoulder as if it were a guard. His dark hair fell down to the shoulders and further, letting it be loose and curly. Last but not least he Yuto had his pair of Daishō. Hoping he didn't stand out too much. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Dwarfed by the other Scorpion, Kaori's entrance was nonetheless noteworthy. Her palanquin was shaped like the petals of a blooming orchid, red as blood. She sat in the middle, her black robes and milk-white skin a perfect contrast to finish the appearance of a flower being delivered by four strong heimin. A series of bells and chimes hanging from the conveyance announced her arrival with soft tinkling ripples. \n\nShe rose, and her robes were of Manami's finest selection. A scandal by conservative standards, her right arm was drawn into the sleeve of her kimono and cradled by the garment. That side of her kimono seemed on the verge of slipping from her shoulder, the slightest effort by her right arm to free itself of silk would see her right side exposed to the waist. The other side was drawn up high and proper in contrast. Her hair was similarly arranged, piled up with a tail coming down over her right shoulder to attempt to cover some of her collarbone. \n\nThe swords she wore were ornate, with tassels hanging from the pommels. They bobbed with every movement. Her black eyes gleamed as she studied the guests and her left hand rose to remove her black lace mask as she crossed the threshold. \n\nWalking as if she owned the place she crossed at once to her host and bowed regally. \"Soshi-sama, thank you for your invitation,\" She purred. \"And allow me to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your promotion to Ambassador! I have every confidence you will lead our clan to greatness.\" \n\nHer berry-bright lips twitched slightly with unexpressed amusement. \n\n ||"
},
{
"author": "s_p_a_r_k_e_e.1313",
"message": "*After Rokugo Yuto and Bayushi Kaori came another figure, this one blending in to the appearance of a courtier, one minor attaché to quite possibly another forgettable courtier. He looked every bit the normal Scorpion except he had green eyes with flecks of gold in them. \n\nHe walked and acted with the practiced moves of a courtier, but to those who knew how to discern true courtiers from others, he was clearly not a courtier, though he was Scorpion. \n\nHe mostly kept to himself, away from the geisha, food and drink, perhaps sitting at the koi pond, staring into its depths.*"
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "<< Tansaku Kiyo >>\n\nJunichi could not recall if he had ever met the gaze of a woman at eye level before. He would return an equal bow to Kiyo, he could honestly say he knew more about her job than he did about the Tanksaku family. He understood it was a rather diligent task maintaining the upkeep on the wards protecting the city, and that finding capable Shugenja was a difficulty they constantly faced.\n\n\"It is a pleasure to meet you Tansaku-San, I must say I am rather thankful for the services you provide our city with. Thank you for sparing your time to attend tonight's festivities.\" \n\nThe unnatural cool of his slate gray eyes paired strangely with his somewhat uncanny smile. He would brush a few stray wavy black locks from his eyes as his expression rested into one of neutral politeness.\n\n\"My mother used to be a traveling shrine maiden before she was married to my father, often assisting with similar services. I understand it can be a thankless task at times, but I tend to think of the lack of recognition as a testament to the fact that we are in such capable hands. After all, a mind without worry has yet to truly face the problems it's protected against.\"\n\nIt was plain to see the expression of boredom written on her face. Hopefully her mood would lighten as the night went on. He spared no expense on good entertainment for the evening, and besides, there was always bound to be *Something* Interesting amongst a den of Scorpion. \n\n||\n\n——————\n\n<< Rokugo Yuto>>\n\nJunichi would spot a familiar face above the crowd. \n\n*\"It must just be our generation...\"*\n\nHe pondered idly to himself while returning an equal bow to Yuto. For now, the Magistrate was someone who Junichi wanted to maintain a good relationship with. He could determine exactly to what degree after they conversed with the other clans, assuming he still wished to attend.\n\n\"Rokugo-San, I'm glad you could make it.\n\nThe unnatural cool of his slate gray eyes would stare out from underneath dangling wavy black locks. A polite expression rested calmly on his face.\n\n\"I look forward to working with you as well. Speaking of, our meeting is only a few days away now. We need to reserve a day soon to discuss our possible proposals.\"\n\nHis eyes would then flicker to somewhere just behind Yuto. Junichi would raise his hand and wave someone forward who was just out of his sight. Returning his gaze to Yuto, keeping the same neutral expression of politeness, he would then say.\n\n\"Though tonight is not about the worries of tomorrow.\"\n\nThe scent of peach would start to linger in the air, once aware to the senses would one only then take notice of the beautiful Geisha standing quietly off to the side between the two men. She stood a whole foot shorter than Yuto at 5'2\" And was shrouded in robes of black and gold. The long midnight strands of unbound silky hair cascaded down over the sides of her painted white face.\n\nWith an elegant pass of her hand, slender fingers would tuck the loose strands of hair behind small round ears. The stretch of her arm tightened the fabric around her slender frame revealing the golden outline of a scorpion wrapping the left side of her body. The edges of the scorpion were patterned in a very distinct Kagome style; supposedly symbolic for protection against ill omens. She would bow quietly to both of them before daring to make eye contact. As she rose again gold eyeshadow caught the warm light of the room setting the specks of amber in her bright green eyes aglow. Their captivating gaze would move steadily between both men with a sense of reserved wonder.\n\n\"This is Karaku Umeko, one of the best entertainers in all of Ryoko Owari Toshi.\"\n\nSaid Junichi to Yuto in a smooth manner. Turning towards Umeko he would very politely ask her.\n\n\"I would be grateful if you could take some time to help absolve any stresses of Magistrate Rokugo Yuto by showing him all that there is to be offered tonight.\"\n\n\"Of course, Soshi-Sama.\"\n\nReplied the soft and tender-hearted voice of the Geisha. She would look up to Yuto with a pleasant, tight-lipped smile. \n\n\"Would you mind accompanying me through the crowd, Rokugo-Sama?\"\n\nShe would turn, standing on his right side, and hold out her arm. She was waiting for him to extend his own arm for her to wrap gently around. Once he did she would then begin to take him first to the table for drinks, making agreeable small talk as they left. \n\n||\n\n——————\n\n<< Bayushi Kaori >>\n\nJunichi had spared a moment from his rounds to get some sake when he was approached by who he could only assume to be one of the \n*\"Geisha\"* That were hired. When she bowed he would return his own to half of her depth. It wasn't until Junichi saw the swords at her waist, and heard how she addressed him that he realized she was, in fact, one of their Clans' Samurai. *And Junichi thought he was breaking traditions of modesty...* He would smoothly reply to her with an expression of neutral politeness on his face. \n\n\"Thank you, I hope with the aid and compassion of our Clan I can set out to be someone you all trust and take solace in. Please never hesitate to speak freely and openly with me-\"\n\nJunichi hesitated for just a moment, his slate gray eyes moved over her face almost as if he was searching for something. \n\n\"-I don't believe I got your name, madam.\"\n\nJunichi inquired politely, handing off the drink he had just poured to her while going ahead and fixing himself another.\n\n||\n\n——————\n\n<< Batushi Akihiro >>\n\nThere were some times when even the host of the party needed to step away for some brief reprieve. Junichi would quietly slip down through the left-wing corridor and out of the sliding shoji doors by the koi pond. Stepping out into the crisp air of the spring night he would look out over the still waters of the pond and take a deep breath, closing the doors behind him.\n\nThere were a handful of people mingling and meandering around his home, appearing to be admiring the meticulous landscaping. He approached none of them and was just simply enjoying the serenity he found around the glow of the paper lanterns. Silently Junichi would make his way over toward the embankment of the pond, quietly studying the reflections within it as his mind drifted down into its murky depths.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "s_p_a_r_k_e_e.1313",
"message": "<< Soshi Junichi >\n\n*The minor attaché had been paying attention to the people traveling around the koi pond, greeting them as they passed by. Akihiro did not fail to notice the host of the party coming out of the side of his manse, coming closer to him. Akihiro took a deep breath and prepared to meet with an august person.*\n\n\"Greetings, Soshi-Sama, this is a great party you have thrown. I have a small token to honor your appointment.\" \n\n*Out of Akihiro's courtier kimono came a small scorpion pendant, made of gold with tiny ruby eyes for the scorpion to make it apparent. It had been paid for with koku scraped together by moonlighting as one of the various criminals of Ryoko Owari Toshi.*"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Nodding as Junichi greeted him in return, he wore a soft smile upon his face though he was quickly caught off guard by the next comment. Discussing their possible... What? Blinking a few times, he didn't quite catch what the man was saying, proposals? \n\n\"Um. Say that agai-'' Cut off by his comment of tonight not being about the worries of tomorrow, he blinked a few more times. It was as though he forgot where he was, completely flabbergasted by such a statement. Was he overthinking it? No, proposal didn't just mean marital, it meant other things too... Right? \n\nBefore one could shake the thought he invited a Geisha to tend to the vassals' needs, immediately being placed into another uncomfortable situation. On the outside he wore a soft smile as before, but internally the Samurai was screaming. So much he hadn't even noticed the arrival of the others.. \n\nWhen she inquired to accompany her, he nodded once more. Opening an arm for her to caress as she'd drag the statue of a man away. She was so much smaller than him, almost similar to Kaori's size. Even though they made small talk everything had felt blank to the Junshin, having only one word in his head. Proposal... \n\nThis is what happens when you attend festivities, Soshi Junichi... From wanting to accompany the man on his quests, Yuto now wanted to clock him into the next period. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The scar on her left cheek pulled her mouth into a perpetual smirk, so it was hard to tell when she was being genuinely facetious. \"Oh, I am slipping indeed, if my name is not on every tongue. I am Bayushi Kaori.\" \n\nShe took the drink and transferred it to her otherwise immobile right hand. Then with a flourish she produced a case and offered it with another bow that exactly matched his own, again using only her left hand \"Please, accept this token of respect from a daughter of Bayushi. I pray you will never have cause to break it again.\"\n\nIf he chose to open the case he would find a writing pen that had been broken and repaired with gold. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "s_p_a_r_k_e_e.1313",
"message": "*Arriving fashionably late, though he certainly had not intended for that, Bayushi Akimitsu would make his way into the estate of his next charge, Soshi Junichi. He did not know of any party or event going on when he arrived, as he had just gotten to Ryoko Owari Toshi that very day. \n\nHe wore his daisho on his waist, both katana and wakizashi, watching all no matter who they were. The crowd parted for him, almost as he simply made his way to the door of the house. \n\nHe wore his crimson dō-maru, proudly emblazoned with the Mon of the Scorpion and the Bayushi family. His snarling dragon menpo, which doubled as his mask covered his lower face, as his green eyes flitted from group to group.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "taenarius",
"message": "Flattery would get you nowhere with Kiyo, it was not easy to influence her one way or the other, but it was greatly appreciated in small doses. It seems likely that any further flattery would not be particularly well received. She would offer Junichi a very muted smile, \"Of course, I'm never one to miss one of these social events,\" Which strangely enough was true, even despite her extreme distaste for most social interaction. \"I look forward to whatever events you have planned for us.\" Although she is mostly looking forward to fine food and drink at her boss' expense really, the events of tonight are inconsequential\n\nOne would expect that someone as antisocial as Kiyo would not pay much heed to anyone else's family history, and while true, she did know the importance of pretending to be interested, especially as she does not outrank or out-important Junichi. \"Yes, it's quite a pain to keep up with the task especially when eyes are upon our work. Our code needs constant updating to ensure those eyes can't crack it. We can't have the other clans figuring out how to do what we do and lose out on one of the services that we provide better than anyone else.\" The loss of the backdoors that Kiyo left in place would also be a tragedy, although no one really needed to know about those.\n\nShe thinks for a moment, and then decides to continue planning a future meeting, now was not the time to discuss matters involving herself \"I suppose we should take the time to speak of duty in a more formal setting, I do have a few concerns that I should bring to your attention. For now, I will be sure to enjoy the party.\"\n\n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "ladyzimom",
"message": "Kei was standing in shadows and holding a wood box wrapped loosely in a vivid red cloth for a long while. His green eyes watched others enter the estate one by one, his parents included, as he attempted to steel his nerves. He had arrived on time, but his hesitancy to enter had caused him to now be rather late, almost unfashionably so. The wind twirled around him tugging on his dark grey haori that bore his mons in bright red thread. It tugged rather violently once, pulling the edges of it into the light exposing the deep red dipped edges one would not have noticed otherwise. With an amused look to the direction of the wind and a steadying breath he steps forward into the light and into the estate.\n\nHis face for once was not covered by his mask revealing the extreme scarring raked across his face. They were healed and ages old but still deeply tinted reddish purple and slashed down his face from one top corner to the bottom of the other as if he had been clawed. Should one manage to look past the horrifying disfigurement they would note that his facial bone structure was fine and delicate indicating he likely would have been quite beautiful had he not had the scarring. \n\nKei absently touched his mask, which was instead tied to his thin male's obi by his Wakizashi, on seeing the wide eyes and most especially the sudden disgust flitter across his father and mother's faces. Instead of fleeing he pulled his On across his marred features and adjusted his deep black kimono with crimson and gold stitched patterns along the seams, and matching black hakama before continuing on as best he could. He made his way directly to the host to greet them, doing his best to avoid as many people as possible... Which is to say he wasn't doing too well.\n\n\"Greetings and many thanks for the invitation Soshi Junichi-sama.\" A deep bow of a person who was of lower status to one of greater, \"I have a gift for you, \" He holds up the wrapped box carefully, almost presenting it, \"Would you like to open it now Soshi-sama or is there a place I might set it to rest?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Miyoko stalked up to the threshold, arriving as best dressed for the occassion as could be managed on the short notice, offering a polite deep bow from the doorway to the other attendants before making her way inside. Her hair was split into two large buns, with a few locks of hair free on each side of her face to frame and accent it. Her hair was tied with red ribbons trimmed with gold, and which had black scorpions embroidered in various threat poses in a repeating pattern. She had accented her outfit with splashes of bright sky blue and deep jade, standing stark against the red and pink that formed the primary colors of her outfit. She was unarmed, save for her fan at her side which could hardly be considered a weapon outside of the court rooms. If she ran into Soshi-Sama during his rounds she would introduce herself properly, as Soshi Miyoko. She would make an appearance, but she planned to take her leave at the earliest convenience, despite how she normally adored these sorts of events."
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "<< Batushi Akihiro >>\n\nJunichi's eyes read as a blank slate, completely expressionless as the abyss of his pupils swallowed the misty gray haze over his vision. The solemn complexion he so often wore like a stone mask began to *Crack* With the expression of dread. Junichi would become increasingly anxious as he reeled back from the depths of his mind. When Junichi finally came back to the forefront of his own thoughts, he had dredged up with him the daunting sensation of negligence. He'd turn, eventually realizing the reason he had been snapped out of his trance: He was addressed by someone now bowing to him. Junichi had not even the vaguest of concepts in how long it was that he was gone, or what the man had even said to him for that matter. He would half blurt out, and half stumble, in his response.\n\n\"T-Thank you.\"\n\nJunichi was entirely unaware of what it was he was thankful for... But it felt like the right thing to say? He would return the bow, figuring it would be best to match its depth just in case.\n\nThey would both rise with Junichi being the first to speak. \n\n\"I must apologize, I seem to have been lost in a bit of a trance. Too often do I find myself deep in thought when staring into the depths of the water. Usually, it's broken by the passing of the koi, I'm sorry the task has fallen to one of my guests.\"\n\nJunichi's eyes would widen as the courtier presented him with the golden pendant engraved with the outline of a Scorpion. \n\n\"Especially one who has presented me with such a beautiful gift. Thank you very much.\"\n\nHe would let it fall into his clammy hand, feeling the raised grooves of the Scorpion's outlines as his thumb passed over it. Bringing the pendant up closer for examination Junichi would notice the small rubies glistening under the light of the lanterns. It was simple but made a statement, the perfect gift for a man who was quite appreciative of such tastes. After an appropriate examination, flashing a satisfied grin, Junichi would tuck the pendant into a safe pocket stitched on the interior of his garb.\n\n\"I do not believe I got your name. I would enjoy it if you could enlighten me on the topic of yourself for a while, if you don't mind.\"\n\nJunichi would politely smile at the man, eager to distract himself from his feelings. It wasn't like he could bail on the party he had committed to throwing. He would just have to deal with these worries at another time, making sure to give the Samurai his full attention.\n\n<< Rokugo Yuto>>\n\nJunichi would catch the start of the Magistrates question before it dwindled into incoherency. \n\n\"Hm? About our project proposal to the other Ambassadors? Just write to inform me on what days this week you are available see we can slot some time to work on it.\"\n\nJunichi looked at him, with hints of disappointment flaking through his otherwise calm gaze. Hopefully the Magistrate did not forget about their rather important gathering to be had. Their meeting with the Lion and Unicorn ambassador was supposed to be near the weeks end. Junichi was curious when Rokugo Yuto did not respond to his earlier letter... Though Junichi would allow him the courtesy of the benefit of the doubt. If Yuto did forget, Junichi would not want to inadvertently embarrass him so publicly. Umeko, almost as if able to read the Ambassadors mind, would then nod to Junichi and both her and the Magistrate would depart together arm in arm.\n\n||\n\n——————\n\n<< Tansaku Kiyo >>\n\nJunichi would attentively listen to the Shugenja before him. He found her *Politely brief,* Almost feeling relieved that it was not him who had to be that way. There were many people to get through after all, and so he was unable to loiter in conversation for too long. Hopefully he would get to commune with her more in the near future. \n\n\"Well, feel free to write me, or drop by, if you ever have the need. My doors are always open to our Clan. Enjoy the rest of the night, and thank you, Tansaku-San, for all of your efforts. May the Kami continue to shine a prosperous light along your path.\" \n\nJunichi would bow to her again and the two would depart back into the fold of the party.\n\n||\n\n——————\n\n<< Soshi Kei >>\n\nJunichi did not show signs of either grief or grimace in his demeanor when met with the disfigured Soshi. He would just as politely smile at him as he had everyone else that he had met so far tonight. Junichi would return an appropriate bow to the other.\n\n\"It is always a fortunate occasion when I'm presented with the opportunity to meet more of our family. Thank you for taking the time to attend.\" \n\nReturning upright Junichi's gaze would look down towards the red cloth-covered box he was presented with. Junichi would of course politely refuse the gift a minimum of twice before eventually calling over one of the many servants. Junichi would explain to the Soshi that he would open it later, as was the customary practice when receiving a closed gift. The servant would then depart with the gift to one of the quarters he has designated for storing such gifts away. Once that was settled Junichi would return his attention to the Soshi, looking somewhat pensive.\n\n\"I understand you know my name, but I do not believe I received yours, would you mind enlightening me on a bit about yourself?\"\n\n||\n\n——————\n\n<< Soshi Miyoko >>\n\nAs this event was atypical and more akin to a small festival, the doors of the Soshi Estate were wide open. Attendees and geisha were spilling in and out of the house at leisure, moving in chaotic synchronization about the property. At the height of the turnout, there must have been close to 300 bodies contained within Junichi's property. Though he was on a mission to meet as many as he could, and in his plight would find himself wandering outside near the old cherry blossom tree where the geisha performed. \n\nFor a moment Junichi was left to himself to admire the music. The melody was beautiful, having a certain sway could carry a wandering mind far away. Yet Junichi would have to stay present, focusing back in on those around him. Luckily he was able to see a woman making her approach while he searched over the crowd. She would introduce herself as Soshi Miyoko. Junichi would politely smile, returning an appropriate bow. \n\n\"Thank you for taking the time to partake in the festivities.\"\n\nRising again to his full height of 6'0 Junichi would lock observant slate gray eyes with her own, and continue.\n\n\"It is always fortunate when I am able to meet those of our family, would you mind taking the time to indulge me on a bit about yourself?\"\n\n||\n\n——————"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "\"Thank you for your courteous invitation, Soshi-Sama. How could I not oblige you? Please ask what you wish. I am a diplomat, and have been working to make cordial introductions among the other great clans of Ryoko Owari Toshi. Do you have any other specific questions? I don't plan to linger long tonight, I'm still trying to settle back into the city.\" She gave a full deep bow to Junichi, showing her respect.\n\nJunichi absolutely towered head and shoulders above her, but she didn't seem unnerved by him. \"What else might I tell you of myself, Soshi-Sama?\" Her own eyes unwavering as she looked directly up into his."
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "\"Well, welcome back to the famed *City of Stories*, I would find it a wise use of your time collecting as many as you can after you have settled in.\"\n\nJunichi's grin would appear to curl in with a certain sense of knowing, though his expression was far too brief to be certain if it had happened. \n\n\"It is good to know more capable Scorpions are starting to come into the fold. I imagine you have been sent to assist with the current state of affairs our city has found itself in?\"\n\nJunichi's rather neutral demeanor did not fluctuate in any one way to indicate he meant anything in addition to what was asked. After all many came to Ryoko Owari Toshi, and he was sure only more would flood its streets as the city teetered on the edge. High stakes were at play, and Junichi just had to figure out what it was everyone was betting on; starting with his own Clan. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "There was a matching flash of understanding across Miyoko's eyes.\n\n\"I haven't been sent directly, I was in Shiro no Soshi, and now I have arrived here. I wasn't specifically sent to help with things in Ryoko Owari Toshi, Soshi-Sama.\"\n\nMiyoko scrutinized her distant Soshi cousin, attentive eyes taking in the subtleties of his demeanor and studying Junichi as he engaged in the off-beat scorpion dance. She took a momentary glance around the room at the other scorpions, before asking, \"If there's nothing else, Soshi-Sama?\" If there was nothing else, she'd give a polite bow and slip away, attempting to vanish into the party, her height helping her blend back into the crowd."
},
{
"author": "ladyzimom",
"message": "The sleight of frame Soshi would bare the customary refusals with grace and, judging by the small twitch at the corner of his lips, mild amusement. He would watch the servant a moment making sure they took care with the delicate gift before turning his attention back to the much larger Scorpion.\n\nIt felt unnatural to lift ones head so much in front of someone of higher standing and Kei suddenly felt rather small in front of this man. On this realization of height, Kei's cheeks under the scars tinted just the slightest bit of colour even as his features remain calm and appropriately polite. Being treated with equal politeness where usually his appearance would cause most others to be less so, darkened that tint further. He was unused to being looked at without his mask, even by his family.\n\n\"Apologies Soshi-sama. This one is Soshi Kei, a lowly illusionist for storytellers to request the aid of.\" Another small bow of the head to gather himself and attempt to wipe the colour of his discomfort from his cheeks.\n||"
}
] | 260.5 | 8,041 |
216.2 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita approached the Mantis embassy early in the afternoon of the agreed upon day. She had on her pink and orange floral kimono, showing the mons of her clan and family. Her dark hair was pulled back today in a long braid, still adorned with its usual beaded comb. She had a few rolled-up papers in hand, notes that she probably wouldn't need, but having something to keep her hands occupied also helped calm the flutter of nerves she felt. \n\nShe had been slowly making acquaintances around the city, but this visit would be different. She had a proposal to make, and while she felt it would benefit everyone involved, only time would tell if her words would be well received. At least the letter from Moshi Kana-sama's letter had made it seem that she was excited to hear what Kita had to say. \n\nPresenting herself at the entrance, she reached a hand to smooth her hair that already threatened to go wayward during the walk here. She was prepared to wait if needed, having realized that she had not specified a time other than 'afternoon'. \n\"Asako Kita from the Phoenix Embassy, here to see Magistrate Moshi Kana.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "A young boy who was at the door, his hair slightly messy and his clothes slightly worn, looked to the Phoenix. \"Oh, uh, I'll let Moshi-sama know you're here. Oh! I mean I'll let her know you're here, Asako-sama.\" He bowed, and then scurried off down a hall, disappearing behind a sliding screen door. Moments later, a tall woman with a shaved head and orange kimono tied with a green Obi emerged. Her smile was bright and enthusiastic as she approached, bowing to Kita. \"Asako-san, good day! Yuji-san here let me know you've arrived. I am Moshi Kana, magistrate of the Mantis Clan. It's good to have a proper introduction. Please, right this way!\"\n\nGesturing back to where she emerged, Kana flitted down the hallway, and led the way into her office. A rather sizeable scroll satchel hung on the wall by a hook, and cabinets held many different writings. Shelves and free surfaces were decorated with cutesy carvings of various animals, such as cats, rabbits, dogs, and horses. At the desk were two cups and a teapot, as well as a rather sizeable platter of Takoyaki.\n\nAs soon as she entered, Kana quickly motioned for Kita to sit, pouring her tea first. \"I trust the day has been treating you well so far?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita gave a bow in response to Kana's introduction, a little lower than the one given, and allowed herself a small smile at the tall woman's infectious energy. She followed Kana to the office she had emerged from,\n\n\"It is very nice to meet you Moshi Kana-sama. Thank you for meeting with me. My day has been very pleasant, I hope the same can be said for you?\"\n\nShe took a quick look around the office as Kana motioned her to take a seat, her eyes lingering just a bit longer on the scroll satchel and writings then the carvings before returning her attention to her host. Before sitting, she held out one of the smaller rolls of paper she had been carrying, \n\n\"A *Small* Token for you,\"\nThe corner of Kita's mouth quirked up at the play on words. It was a miniature scroll of crisp linen paper, elegantly lettered in shimmering orange ink, in the corner the shadow of a blossom that had been pressed there to dry;\n\n*A bird's sweet song rings \nThrough the trees, a symphony \nNature awakens*\n\n*Green buds burst open \nSunlight kisses new growth's face \nSpringtime magic blooms*\n\n\"An excerpt from one of my favorite poetry books. The spring weather brought it to mind.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, well it's been quite good! Got the first batch of Takoyaki this morning, and things are going well around the wharves, so I've no complaints. Speaking of, please feel free to help yourself!\" She made no move to start taking the Takoyaki for herself; it'd be a decidedly ungracious move as the host to start digging in before her guest did, after all.\n\nHer attention would be immediately drawn towards the tiny scroll she would be gifted, however, handling it with care as she read the words. \"Oh! It's a wonderful gift, Asako-san! Thank you very much. A wonderful token of the season, and you've presented something special to you in a way that makes it all the more unique.\" She carefully placed it on the shelf behind her in a spot where it would remain prominently displayed, but away from any potential dangers posed by the meeting's refreshmnents.\n\nTurning her attention back towards Kita, she sat in an upright, but relaxed posture. \"So, you wanted to discuss with me the possibility of sanctioned duelling within the city? I have to say, your letter came as somewhat of a surprise. I wouldn't think the Phoenix clan would have interest in such an offering, personally. That said, I mean no criticism by it. Rather, I'm intrigues as to what your vision is.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"I am glad to hear things are going well for you. You had this made fresh here? It looks lovely.\" \nKita nodded politely at the offer of the takoyaki, taking one to put in front of her, not wanting to appear too eager to dig into the snack, but nibbling as the conversation continued back on the matter at hand.\n\nShe tried to relax herself, letting some of the tension out of her shoulders as Kana's response continued in a friendly manner. She proceeded to start to answer the question,\n\n\"Yes- I will admit the idea is a bit unusual .Having a dueling organization would give that opportunity in a more consistent manner than is currently available, and promote those skills. But I believe it will have benefits beyond just an outlet for duelists to display their talents. I understand there are a fair number of duelists in the city, including some that you support?\"\n\n||\n\n|| reopening, for whenever you get a chance"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, I couldn't take credit for the takoyaki, I'm afraid, It's from one of the many food stands amongst the wharves. I like to think of it as partially doing my part to help give a bit more support and attention to some of our local businesses,\" She spoke. \"To tell the truth of it, it's likely I'm a fairly significant part of their clientele on my own!\"\n\nGiggling, she reached for one of the morsels, taking a small bite so as not to seem overly eager or gluttonous to her guest. She found herself grateful that her mother had taught her so well about the importance of restraint in such matters.\n\nOf course, she wouldn't let herself get distracted from the purpose of Kita's visit here. \"Indeed, there are duelists whom I support. The Ronin in our employ, Chiyoko, showed herself to be Ryoko Owari Toshi's finest duelist in the spring Iajutsu tournament,\" She explained, beaming with pride as she did. \"But what is this to do with the potential benefits of such a society?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Smiling at her host's enthusiasm, Kita took another bite of the treat herself, savoring the taste for a minute before replying again.\n\n\"The Steel Talons would be a Phoenix led dueling organization within the city of Ryoko Owari Toshi. We wish it to be open to any skilled samurai to be known as a champion duelist. The idea being to promote ongoing constructive interaction among the clans and individuals as well as develop skills of duelists within the city. We believe it would also provide incentive for dueling to be used as a way to resolve conflict, vs other, coarser methods of conflict resolution.\"\n\nShe had numbered off each of the named benefits on her fingers as she listed them, then folded her hands back in her lap. Her manner showed that she had given great thought to the matter, but she tried to keep her explanation concise.\n\n\"The project itself has approval, other than a few details. The finalization of those would benefit from a unified show of support from the clans that have skilled duelist to represent, like your ronin.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana listened to the pitch intently, holding her hands and nodding as she listened. She leaned forward slightly, and met Kita's gaze as she spoke. By the end of it, she had a clear understanding of where she and the Mantis fit into the whole affair. She wore a courteous smile as she listened, and it remained on her lips as she leaned back slightly to speak.\n\n\"I do see the wisdom in the idea, no doubt. Indeed, there are times when conflict does come to a head, and dueling is preferable to clan war, absolutely. Combat should never be the first resort, but when it becomes the only resort, it's best to limit it and conduct it honorably.\"\n\n\"I've some questions about how this will be implemented. If I'm understanding you correctly, you would see each clan nominate a designated duellist to be part of the society?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita was appreciative of Kana's attentiveness to what she had to say. She lapsed into silence for a short time with a contemplative expression. When she spoke again to answer the question, she watched her host to gauge her response,\n\n\"The proposal in its original form was to have 5 named champions-periodically open to challenge; asking the finalists from the Crane's most recent Iaijutsu tournament to serve as 4 of the Steel Talons, and have the Crane nominate their own representative as the 5th, recognizing that talent and expertise as our first champions. But a concern was raised with two of those finalists being ronin.\"\n\nKita was mindful to guard her expression, keeping her personal thoughts on learning of the tournament results and the resulting conversation to herself.\n\n\"We believe that with the support of the leadership of the clans, and clans sponsoring the ronin duelists, that we can overcome the objection. Excluding the ronin would disregard the skill of these individuals and remove some level of challenge from later contests for the title of Steel Talon to be retained or change hands.\"\n\nShe fell quiet again, allowing Kana a chance to add her thoughts on the matter.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana knew she had to be careful here. After all, the Mantis and Crane were looking to be allies, and that meant there had to be some ground given to their sensibilities here. At the same time, she had seen the tournament. Even if she didn't consider Atsuko and Chiyoko both to be friends and allies, it was plain to her that they had been successful because they were the best. If an elite duelling society was to be established, that ought to have been the primary consideration.\n\nBut how to express it...\n\n\"Well, Kita-san, I would certainly support your initiative to have the ranks open to them. I would think the Crane in this city would welcome the challenge of placing amongst them. After all, the skill of the Crane samurai in this city is matched only by their bravery!\"\n\nThere was a decidedly satsified smirk on her face as she reached for another octopus ball, and it remained on her face even as she munched on it. \n\n\"I take it then, that you will be in support of these ronin having a place in this organization?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"Of course we support these ronin joining our organization!\"\n\nHer response was a little too forceful and a little too abrupt. Kita realized as soon as the words came out. Closing her mouth with a snap, she inclined her head toward Kana and let out a sigh.\n\n\"My apologies Moshi-sama. Yes-we, the Phoenix, support the ronin having a place in the Steel Talons. I, personally, have been more recently coming around to this idea, but I have been provided several reasons why it would be of benefit, which I've shared with you. So I will admit it, even in my own reluctance, their inclusion deserves my full support as well. They have proven themselves as some of the best duelists, and should be recognized as such.\" || Etiquette 5:Sincerity ||\n\nKita finished her statement with convincing sincerity; at least that's what she hoped would come across. She looked back up at Kana, watching for how her answer would be received. She had been working to change her own mindset about their inclusion since learning of the option to try to push forward with the original plan, and learning of Ambassador lemon-sama's specific request to include the ronin duelists. She was still working on it, even though she understood *Why*. And to be fair, presenting a united front for this cause would prove the case that the Steel Talons could be a unifying force within the city.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana did sense perhaps a little bit of trepidation in Kita, which was only confirmed when she spoke. The Phoenix were a traditionally minded clan, after all, and the idea of having Ronin be a part of such a group was decidedly... Progressive. Still, whatver Kana sensed, she also sensed that she was sincere in her desire to promote the society as it was pitched. Fun as it might be, veiled taunts about the Crane's duelling skill and courage would only go so far. \n\n\"I appreciate your honesty and candor regarding this matter. Many would simply tailor their words to be what the speaker would most like to hear\" She smiled genuinely. \"As it stands, so long as the Steel Talons extend membership on the basis of merit, I would be happy to lend the Mantis' support to the initiative! That said, there are a few more questions I have. When not acting as designated clan duellists, what expectations and duties would there be for the membership?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita shot Kana a brief grateful look before turning back to take another of the snacks between them. Finishing a bite, she covered her mouth and cleared her throat daintily before answering. \n\n\"There would be no 'duties' per se, expectations though, yes. There would be a token of membership-a medallion of sorts that they would be required to display to indicate their status as *Champion duelists*.\nFrom there, they would be expected to compete at the following Steel Talons tournament to determine if they retain their title, or pass it along to the next worthy challenger who would defeat them.\"\n\nShe paused for a moment, the last exchange fresh on her mind, but with the Phoenix taking responsibility, and liability, for those wearing the title, it would be neglectful of her if it wasn't mentioned;\n\n\"And of course to conduct themselves in an honorable manner befitting all samurai.\nWhat other questions might I be able to answer for you?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"All fair expectations,\" Kana replied. \"If we are presenting this group as the designated duellists for the clans, then of course they would need to present themselves accordingly. Though, I've another question. Let's assume that in the course of tournaments, one loses their position. Would that not leave a clan without a representative? Or do they only defend their position against those within their own clan? Please don't take my questioning as a lack of support; just trying to see how this would all work!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"Ah yes. Of course your questions are welcomed.\"\n\n Kita reassured her, and sought to explain, \n\n\"Not every clan would be represented at once, and only 5 Talons would be named at any one time. So there may be a more considerable incentive to have a worthy candidate, or for individuals to improve such skills for when the contest comes around. I suppose it could be entirely possible for a single clan to gain all the positions... Although unlikely.\"\n\n She finished her thought about, speaking almost more to herself as she did, absently rubbing at her hand where a nearly faded ink stain faintly showed.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah... So that's the mechanism by which you'll encourage more duelling. If a clan does not participate or does not hone their skills, then they don't get represented!\" She nodded. \"I admit, I wasn't entirely sure how this would encourage participation, but I think tapping in to the sense of competition that exists here is exactly the right way to do it! With the standards of conduct you mentioned earlier, I think this also provides additional incentive to avoid excessive subterfuge. After all, sooner or later, one will have to defend their position, and one who is undeserving would humiliate their clan if they did not acquit themselves properly in the duel.\"\n\nShe nodded along, her enthusiasm seeming to grow as she reasoned out how all this would work. Her eyes did widen for a brief moment, though, as she seemed to come to a realization.\n\n\"Though I must ask... What is the protocol around, for example, if someone were to continually issue challeneges to the same Talon?\" While she didn't speak it out loud, she hoped that her meaning would be caught. After all, Kita had mentioned herself there was opposition to the inclusion of Ronin.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita was pleased with the path the conversation had taken overall. The visit had been enjoyable, the proposal well received, her host enthusiastic about pledging her support. This was a good start. She nodded along with Kana's thought process, connecting the dots of how she hoped things would come into play.\n\n\"Yes, exactly. The rotation and not providing an automatic spot for any one clan or samurai should makes it that much more of a challenge, and hopefully, prize to be won.\"\n\nAt Kana's addition concern, Kita grew thoughtful. \n\n\"Hmm, yes. A consideration that should be accounted for... Some kind of process to prevent such an issue.\"\n\nShe mused on the problem for a moment, toying with the remainder of her takoyaki. Looking back up at her host,\n\n\"That will need to be addressed, but I don't have a precise answer for you right now. Possibly when a challenge is made there is a name drawn of which Talon will be dueling against them, or possibly assigned by myself or other administrators? But whatever the case, some process would be determined prior to any challenge being allowed.\"\n\nShe bowed her head slightly, then straightened. \n\"I do appreciate you voicing the concern, so that it can be rightly addressed.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"I think that will be a good start for now, then!\" She smiled. \"So, tell me, what would the first steps be? I'm certain I can speak to Chiyoko by the end of the day to discuss the idea with her. I think she would be honored to take such a position!\" Grabbing another takoyaki, she waited a bit before munching on it.\n\n\"What else would you require of the Mantis besides our participation? I imagine an endeavor such as this requires more than just me stating I like the idea.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita frowned slightly, still thoughtful on the various moving pieces the project would entail. \n\n\"Oh- well, I won't tell you how to do things, but i might suggest to wait to extend the invitation to Chiyoko-san. Although letting her known of the idea surely wouldn't cause any harm while it's still a work-in-progress.\n\nI have to speak still to the other clan representatives, and with their support, take the request back to City Hall for the final approval.\nHaving your pledge of support in writing will make both things go more smoothly. As you said, versus just stating you like the plan. I don't see any other need from the Mantis at the moment. Although if something comes up, I appreciate the offer and will most certainly let you know.\"\n\nAn excited smile had returned to her face. If things could fall into place, this project could be a great success, both for her first assignment, as well as a win for the Phoenix. She was hopeful. \n\n\"And I will certainly let you know once that is complete and the Steel Talons are ready to take flight!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Finishing the morsel, Kana returned Kita's smile. \"Very well. I'll temper myself until things are more in place, but let Chiyoko know of the plans in the meantime. If it comes to speaking with other clans, do let me know if I can be of aid there! While I'm not certain I can be of much use with say, the Scorpion, there are clans that we've ties with who I think I'd be able to put in a good word for. \" She gestured to the plate. \"By the way, feel free to take as many as you like! I know I really shouldn't be having them all to myself.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 227 | 4,324 |
306 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Dawn came once more to the Mantis Embassy, and once again Moshi Mai found herself very busy. As a matter of fact, she hadn't slept much the night before, having spent most of the night going over business expenses, checking the numbers, and ensuring that all of the Mantis' business was on the level, accurate, and most of all, profitable. A job she despised, but one that she was begrudgingly good at. She'd much prefer to be out on the seas, raising hell and wreaking havoc... Well, maybe. Older bones, less drive for tomfoolery. \n\nBut, that didn't matter. What mattered now was a strong cup of tea and a chance to wake up out in the garden. She was ready to bask in the sun, now that her prayers were done, and-\n\n\"Excuse me, Moshi-sama.\"\n\nMai had just went to take a piping hot sip of tea while she sat upon a wooden bench, just to be interrupted by one of her servants. \"Ancestors save you, this best be important.\" \n\n\"Well, it's a new arrival, Kitsuna Akari, Moshi-sama.\"\n\nMai sighed, annoyed. She had _forgotten_ the Kitsune was due to arrive around this time, early morning. \"Right, right. Did she bring a gift? Is it something that'll wake me up some more?\"\n\n\"I don't know, Moshi-sama, but I can check-\" \n\n\"Just... Just send her to me. Bring the pot of tea, another cup, won't you?\" Mai was pleased to see the particular Fox was here, upon her request. She just wished she was a little more _awake_ to greet her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_Waiting with a customary cordial delay as to not enter with presumptuous intent, giving a curt nod to the attendant as she walked into the room to present herself before the Ambassador._\n\n_Dressed in a red kimono with yellow obi, flawless white skin contrasting her black hair done with in a fancy bun with an ornate hair piece, stood Kitsune Akari, giving a full bow to the Ambassador, but before finishing the bow she spoke from vermilion lips;_\n\n\"Ohayo Gozaimasu Ambassador Mochi-sama. It's so lovely to meet you in person at long last, I hope my early arrival hasn't overly inconvenienced you.\"\n\n_Her voice was low and sultry, her words rolled off her tongue like waves on a shoreline with perfect pronunciation, to be expected surely for one of her station but still a cut above most._\n\n_Her hands where not at her side for they held both onto a small bonsai tree, one that was growing on or out of a hollowed rock set in the pot, filled with carefully arranged leaves and sticks, the perfect habitat for any number of forest floor dwelling insects, like a centipede._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai took in the look of the Fox when she stepped into the garden, and they were almost night and day. This woman was pale and with the blackest hair she'd ever seen, and look positively resplendent. Meanwhile, Mai was tall, tan and with hair to match, and looked like she spent the night in a typhoon. All the same, the beauty was impressive, and it was clear to see the letter she received wasn't exaggerating when it spoke of Akari's beauty. \n\n\"Kitsune-san,\" Mai said, \"You could be the Mantis Champion here to appoint me Daimyo, and I would not be glad to see you.\" She chuckled at her own joke ||Jokester Strength||, and ushered for the Kitsune to take a seat at the adjoining bench. \"But, rest assured, it is just fatigue that makes me grouchy this morning; you are both welcome and graciously appreciated.\"\n\nMai still had the etiquette to refuse the gift twice before accepting the lovely bonsai tree. A quick look told her that her dear Muka-chan would enjoy nesting in it. A nice gift, indeed. \"Many thanks, Kitsune-san,\" She said, setting the bonsai next to her. \"Now, please, help yourself to some tea.\" \n\nShe needed tea herself, finding the matcha to really help with the sluggishness. \"So, how do you fare? Any trouble on the road or the river? I could see how being a lovely-looking and yoouthful as yourself could lead to trouble.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_She sat as invited too, happy the gift was accepted after the customary two refusals, she had done her homework before their meeting, as she was trained to do with anyone, friend or foe, Moshi's unconventional companion was one thing that came up often enough._\n\n_At the praised directed upon her she looked away feigning a polite shyness a hand over her mouth, waving with the other hand to Moshi;_\n\n\"Oh please, the complements are undeserved truly, I could do no less then look my best for our first meeting, such moments a few and fleeting in this life.\" _She said, smiling as attention was directed to tea._\n\n_Without even thinking she took the cup and performed the last few steps of the Tea Ceremony, motions practiced for years, every finger digit remembering the raps on them by Akari's mother with a wooden spool when she misdid a step._ ||Emphases: Tea Ceremony||\n\n\"Oh many aspired to take advantage, none dared to try, I was fortunate that the attention I garnered was from both high and low, the former seeing the later did not make a move without consequence, I must say this city is as intriguing as it is unknowing.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai could say that Akari definitely knew how to speak properly. Eloquent, respectful. Anything that one would expect from a courtier. And her tea handling skill was impressive, as well. Mai could tell from her own experience that Akari knew what she was doing. ||Also Tea Ceremony Emphasis|| \n\nThe news of many lookers-on and wandering eyes was amusing, to say the least. \"Now, now, it's unbecoming to speak _too_ highly of yourself,\" She joked, \"Lest you end up looking like _me_ when you get old. But, you do hold one thing true, Kitsune-san: This city is _full_ of intrigue. Quite a few mysteries behind closed doors and hidden in lampless rooms. \n\n\"Quite a few that may be easy enough to discover, if one was bold enough to do so.\" \n\nMai sipped her tea casually, while her implicated words sat in the garden with them. \"I've read up on you, of course. I understand your late father was an honorable man. A great loss. I understand that your _mother_ is a loyal servant of the Mantis, though she may not be as honorable as the late father.\" She was careful to say such without being disrespectful, but she was making her point clear: She knew what Kitsune Akari could do. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_The pallid courtier smirked, she had indeed been chosen for more then her overt courtier talents, and by someone with wisdom enough to see the effects unseen actions can have on the world;_\n\n\"To be in the presence of one who sees the value my family's 'art', it's refreshing to say the least.\" _She said, taking a sip of her tea, savoring the flavor before adding;_ \"Forgive for not assuming your foreknowledge, a loose tongue is sharper a dagger then any tanto, and cuts twice as deep.\"\n\n_To add emphasis to this point she reached back to the bow of her ornate obi, taking from it hiding place and placing it unsheathed on the table between them, a gesture of trust and respect._ ||Stealth 4||\n\n\"Sadly I was unable to bring with me the other implements of my art along with me, I was stopped more the once and my belongings given greater scrutiny then was warranted, has the Scorpion been over eager with it's venom, as of late?\" _She asked._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai's eyes rested on the dagger between them, a small frown on her face. \"A clever little trick, Kitsune-san,\" Mai said flatly, \"And if I wasn't tired, I'd probably make a bigger fuss about trying to impress your ambassador by pulling out a knife on her. I'd make some sassy remark about having the strength to wring your neck or something, but... Well, forget it.\" \n\nShe chuckled, and waved away any sort of worry that might come up. \"Forgive me. Your special talents are certainly special, and definitely talented. That much is clear. And I appreciate you not showing it by climbing through my window in the middle of the night. And yes, that has happened, and _no,_ I will not infer about it in detail\n\n\"Iinstead, let me tell you what we're up against.\" Mai sipped more matcha, and got down to it. \"We were allied with the Scorpion. We have rescinded that alliance, and are throwing in with the Unicorn and the Crane. Naturally, the Crane are not a group I trust, but I _respect_ that they are ones that need to be seen as honorable, and ultimately are far more clever than I. We have made a deal with them. An act will be completed in Winter. And we will regain the homeland of the Kitsune Family. \n\n\"But for now, we have the Scorpion to deal with. They've made no moves against us, but that doesn't mean they're not dangerous. Sadly, the only way to deal with them is reactively, as they are masters of secrets. But, what if I were to have someone being just as secretive? Or someone that could find some secrets themselves?\n\n\"But for now,\" Mai said, \"I have a proper task for you. Are you aware of the _Tomodachimaru?_ If you came by boat, you'd see the big, luxurious ship in the harbor.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "\"Through your window? Tsk tsk, that's not the way to do things, and rude besides. Despite that I can very well infer as to the why, so you needn't say more Moshi-sama.\"\n\n_As the Ambassador elucidated her on the current situation she took the time to pull the saya for her tanto out, placing the short blade back in it with a small ritualistic gesture, before putting both sword and sheath back in their hiding place._\n\n\"Unicorn and Crane? I heard rumors speaking of one or the other allying with the Mantis but I suspect now it was personal bias on behalf of the speaker.\" _She said swirling her tea a bit before taking a long sip, refreshingly well made for once, the teahouses she had stopped at along the way never got it quite right._\n\n\"I'll pray we Mantis don't end up the rump end of the alliance, we could have done worse then horn and pincer, it's true. But to regain the Kitsune lands? Well that might just be worth it.\"\n\n_As the conversation moved along and the mention of a grand ship came up, by name no less; the Tomodachimaru;_\n\n\"A sight for certain, I'd wager the blind could see the shadow it casts, but other then hearing it's name mentioned and a brief glimpse as I walked by upon arriving, I dare so I know scant little about.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Well, officially, I approached the Unicorn about making an alliance with them. After speaking with Ide Takuma, we came to an understanding of sorts. The hard part was taking care of the Crane and getting their approval, as fickle as that might be.\" Mai wouldn't get into the odds and ends of it, not yet. She wanted to speak more of the ship. \n\nAnd what a ship that was. Akari spoke of it with some rather flowery words and praise, which was flattering. \"Well, that ship is ours. A brothel, a gambling den, a fighting club, a sake house, and means to transport partygoers to Teardrop Island for more entertainment. But the thing is, if they're already on _our_ ship, there's no need to really go to the island, now is there?\" Mai still chuckled to herself on that scheme of hers. Sure, she didn't _plan_ to use it to undercut the Scorpion, but it sure did help. \n\n\"Now, I have been managing any problems that come up with the ship, when my current assistant cannot handle it herself. But now that _you_ are here, and with your knowledge from your familial heritage, it would be child's play for you to run such an establishment, would it not?\" Mai set her cup down, and looked more seriously at the Fox. \"Now, doing so comes with extra steps and considerations. We have allies in this city that are not of the Samurai caste, but have proven to be good friends. Good friends that keep an eye out on the ship, and good friends that I will _not_ see disrespected. So, before I assign you to this first tasks, I will ask: can you handle that?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "\"A floating palace of sin and vice? Oh, kami forbid such a place exist! I feel spiritually defiled merely laying eyes on it, my poor maidenhood is all but shattered!\" _She said with bawdy sarcasm so thick one could cut through it with a kanabo, going so far as to act as if she was about to faint, and if not for said satire, the fainting spell might have seem genuine._ ||Acting 2||\n\n_After a few melodramatic moments more the mask faltered and she lowered her hand giggling into it before regaining her sultry stately composure and listening to Moshi lay out the details;_\n\n\"Oh my, you'd give the Crane something to squawk about with such low cunning Moshi-sama, the ship sounds like exactly the kind of place I could make into my den.\" _She said, listening intently before responding;_\n\n\"Good friends like good tea are far and few between in this world.\" _She lifted her glass to emphasis;_ \"So long as I know who these Samurai are and what special 'privileges' I am to give them, that will work just fine.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Hm! It's far too early for sarcasm, young lady,\" Mai chuckled, \"But I see you get my point. It's a fine establishment that brings in some great money to pay our respects to the Emperor and fill the Mantis coffers. And I intend to keep it that way, with the right overseer, of course.\" \n\nMai watched Akari for a moment, to gauge her reactions and to see what she thought of the last part of Mai's offer. It was important not to disrespect Silver, for the time being. They hadn't done anything to gain her ire, other than withholding their true name and face... And possibly their species. But, it seemed that Akari understood what Mai was saying. \n\n\"It is no samurai,\" She corrected, \"But a... Merchant, we'll say. They go by the moniker of Silver, and they have shown me no ill will. They're very clever, but they got themselves into some sort of gang war with a fireman gang leader named Tsubomi. It's all a lot of headaches, but the gist is, we are backing Silver.\n\n\"Until we have reasons not to.\" Mai sipped her tea, and let out a sigh. \"Now, you will run the overhead for the _Tomodachimaru._ Make visits to the establishment when you need to, and make sure it runs properly. You will also act as a courtier when I see fit, to deal with some of the petitions and other legal problems that arise. But your _third_ taks are the ones that are very much against my will and against any orders I gave you... At least, as far as anyone asks.\"\n\nMai leaned forward, and spoke in a soft voice. \"I want you to gather as much information as you can on the Lion and the Phoenix in the city. Especially two: Ikoma Kazuyo and Asaako Sanumo. The Lion has a splintered house; the Ambassador says one thing, and the Samurai do another. As for the Phoenix, they've been quiet ever since they fried that poor hinin girl in the leatherworker's quarter early this spring. They must be up to something, as their hate of the Unicorn grows stronger. \n\n\"You're within your discretion on how to enact these tasks,\" Mai said, \"But do not shame the Clan; your little knife won't save you from the wrath of a Daughter of Lady Sun. Understood?\""
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_The courtier listened intently, commenting on the mysterious 'merchant';_\n\n\"Intriguing, this Silver seems quite enigmatic mystery, more so for picking a fight with the Hikeshi, their violent squabbles with one another over responding to blazes are infamous enough, but to antagonize one of their leaders, though? Bold indeed. I think I will enjoy my interactions with them.\"\n\n_As Moshi continued Akari noted down the relevant information mental, thus there would be nothing to gain if one searched her possessions, if they'd dare to do so without reason, that was, replying in confirmation;_\n\n\"I understand clearly, I'll see to the Tomodachimaru's upkeep and operations, you need only send a summons should you require me for anything else Moshi-sama, I am ever at the Mantis' service, and by extension your very own.\"\n\n_She bowed deeply where she sat, holding the bow as Moshi relayed the less then honorable third task required of her;_\n\n\"A divided pride, and phoneix who burns all it touches? My, my, we do live in interesting times do we not? I can see to gathering what I can about both individuals.\"\n\n_Sitting up she received the warning of bringing shame to the Mantis, looking Moshi directly in the eye unblinking;_ \"On my father's name I will do whatever I must to further the Mantis' interests, and will die with honor before I bring shame upon us, your wrath so great Moshi-sama, would be as a light scolding compared to the thought of besmirching my father's memory with such failure.\"\n\n_Her words carried an earnest to them, she meant what she said, she would die with honor before failure, or make it so her death would go without wider notice to spare the Mantis the fallout of it._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai found Akari's answers and oath acceptable. She even managed to smile, despite her weariness, and she couldn't help but let a little chuckle out. \"Well then, good. I like your answers, and I like _you._ So far. As long as you maintain your actions to match your words, you will do just fine.\" \n\nShe leaned in a little, to add another little bit of advice. \"Do remember, Kitsune-san: This city is full of Scorpion. So make sure to watch yourself carefully, yes? Your skills are good, very good. But they are many, and far more ingrained in the dastardly arts.\" Mai leaned back, and struggled to maintain a yawn. \n\n\"I fear that will be all, for now.\" Mai stood up, and gave a proper bow. \"You are free to go amongst your business. A room will be prepared for you in the embassy, which I'd recommend you use; I'd prefer my Mantis be under one roof where our defenses are best. Other than that, may Lady Sun light your path... And provide you shadows where you need them.\""
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_Having finished her tea and placed her tea cup stained red from her lips respectfully to the side, Akari stood;_ \"I am no stranger to the silent sting of the Scorpion, but I believe their belief that they dominated the shadows will allow me to pass by without notice, complacency can blind even the most vigilant eyes.\" ||Weakness: Overconfident||\n\n_She returned the bow, deeper then Moshi as a sign of respect for the Ambassador's higher station, replying;_\n\n\"I look forward to being close by if needed, you have welcomed me in so graciously Moshi-sama, I cannot enough express my gratitude. May the rest of your morning ease you into this day to follow.\"\n\n_With that she turned and left gracefully, off to seek proper lodgings in the Embassy and get herself settled in, the first day of many in this new city in her new station._\n\n||"
}
] | 286.5 | 4,284 |
307.923077 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana had to fight to stop a foolish grin from being plastered over her face as she approached Mai's office. Though the news she had to share was certainly good news, she was aware of the implications that this would have for the clan, so it behooved her to ensure she was approaching the situation with a modicum of professionalism. Of course, that's not to say that there wasn't any hint of nervousness or trepidation; while Kana had given thought to how her news would be a boon to both her clan and herself, she knew these kinds of things were complicated. Discussions would need to be had, plans would need to be made, and there was also the matter of convincing another ambassador this could be good for their clan as well.\n\nFor now, though, Kana's mind was mostly focused on sharing good news with a woman that had come to be like an older sister to her. Carefully sliding the door open, she peeked her head in. \"Moshi-sama?\" She called out. \"Is now a good time to talk?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai yawned, and called for a servant to bring her some more tea. Better yet, that coffee concoction. It wasn't common, but it was supposed to really wake up a person, and after waking up with a splitting headache and drinking much too much the other night, she could definitely use it. She'd want to just call it a day, which she could easily do back when she was just a captain, but an ambassador stayed busy in this city, it seemed. \n\nSo, when Moshi Kana came to the door and asked if it was a good time, Mai could only roll her eyes and scoff. \"Do you have a hair on your head?\" She made her comment, but she ushered the shugenja in, all the same. \"Of course, Kana-san, I have time for you. Take a seat.\" She rubbed her forehead a bit, trying to regain her composure. \"Forgive me, sister, for I am far too old to drink as much as I did last night. Remind me to never take a fireman's drinking bet again; it was not worth the aftermath.\" It was so bad she almost forgot the entire night, even Rokugo Yuto. _Almost._ \n\nMai opened her eyes, and caught a glimpse of the rather chipper Kana. Not that she wasn't usually chipper. \"...You look as if you're a child that's found the candy box, Kana-san. What's put you in such a good mood?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana came in to the office, suppressing a chuckle at the story. \"Well, sister,\" She began, taking a more relaxed tone once she closed the door behind her, \"At the very least, I hope you won, then! Not that I doubt you at all, though.\" She took a seat across from Mai. \"If it helps, maybe after we can head out to the shrine and I can call upon the tears of heaven? If the kami feel cooperative, that is.\"\n\nKana hadn't forgotten though that she hadn't come here solely to discuss Mai's hangover, however. When Mai had made note of her mood, any attempt to hold back her smile was utterly futile. \"Well...\" She began. \"You know Shinjo Temujin, yes? The Unicorn Scout that's been making a number of visits to the embassy of late?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai made a non-commital grunt at Kana's offer to assist. Tears of Heaven might just do the trick, actually... But unfortunately, Kana's bright and cheery attitude was too grating at the moment., so Mai didn't accept the aid immediately. Instead, she looked back to her scrolls and tried to figure out her next plans. \n\n\"Shinjo... Temujin?\" Mai looked up, and she nodded as her brain try to catch up to her. \"Ah, yes, Shinjo Temujin. I've had plenty of talks with him. A nice enough fellow, albeit a bit _too_ nice. I prefer a man be a bit more brash and imposing, personally, but he's certainly respectable and-\" \n\nMai stopped herself, setting down the piece of charcoal in her hand. She looked at Kana carefully, squinting and looming over the table. She stared right into Kana's eyes, and slowly a smug grin came over her elder shugenja's face. \n\n\"...Lady Sun, reveal the truth! You _fancy_ Shinjo-san, don't you?\" Despite the headache, Mai was too amused not the tease Kana. \"I should have known! You were _so_ adamant about sitting with him at dinner, were you not? No wonder you always asked about him when he came for an audience!\" Mai was all smiles when the servant returned with the bitter coffee drink, which she wrinkled her nose at the taste. All the same, she dropped it back to gain that sweet pep. \"Tell me, Kana-san, is this love one-sided, or does your strapping outrider love you back? Have you _kissed,_ hm? Or even more than that?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana couldn't help but giggle at Mai only *Now* Realizing she fancied Temujin. After all, there had been rumors and chatter for some time now, not to mention the way she was putting together all of the signs now. The giggles soon turned to a bright blush as the questions turned to just how far the two of them had gotten. Even if such a question should have been entirely expected, it was still enough to catch her off guard. \n\n\"Ah! No! We haven't done *That* Yet! No!\" She insisted, nodding emphatically. \"Though, as for the other things, well... As it happens the day I had to deal with that rather ridiculous Phoenix I was out to savor some plum wine on my own, when Temu-ku- SHINJO-SAN! Shinjo-san had been passing through. He listened and comforted me as I told him about everything, one thing led to another... And so we confessed our feelings for each other.\"\n\nHer blush deepend, as she glanced down at her hands. \"Then he kissed me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Good, good,\" Mai said, \"Keep him waiting; a precious gift should only be given at a precious time.\" Mai felt rather elated about the situation; it felt as if she had a little sister that was talking of her dojo crush. It was no secret that Mai favored Kana for her reliability and bright personality, so Mai's excitement on her Sun Sister's behalf was genuine. \n\n\"Ah, _Temu-kun_ soothed your angry heart? Did he tell you you're much to beautiful to be seen in tears or some such pillow book talk?\" Mai snickered, especially when Kana blushed, but it subsided when Kana spoke of the kiss. \"Ah, that is so romantic! Blessed you be, to have such a nice and beautiful moment. \n\n\"Consider yourself lucky; my first kiss with my late love was after I kicked him in the ribs and he punched me in the face. Hardly romantic, but kami preserve us, was he a good _kisser...\"_ Mai lost herself in the thought of her rambunctious, equally as combative Tomoru, the only man to stand up to Mai's tyrannical bullying and win her heart. \n\nBut, despite those good thoughts, and Kana's great news, they weren't peasants. They were Samurai. \n\n\"So. Do you intend to marry him?\" Mai's tone mellowed a bit, and a sigh left her. \"I feel poorly for asking, since I am truly happy that you've found the love and respect of a good man. If I were just Captain and you were my grunt, I'd cut you free with a couple koku as a dowry and all my best wishes. But, you're a shugenja and magistrate for the Mantis Clan, and Daughter of Amaterasu above all. There is a lot to consider there. And of course, our desire to ally with the Unicorn Clan.\" Mai crossed her arms, not liking this side of things. \"If you were to wed Shinjo-san, it would make for a sign of non-aggression with the Unicorn, and put us above the Crane. But, since I love you as a sister, I want to know how you'd feel about that. Your love would be genuine, a rare occasion in such things, but the shadow of duty and honor before all would surely be cast upon you.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana briefly covered her face with her hands at Mai repeating Temu-kun. *Of course* She would have slipped up there. There were times when being so friendly with one's superior could be troublesome.\n\n\"Well, um, yes... He did tell me I was beautiful... And it was a bit like a pillow book...\" She spoke softly, her cheeks continuing to burn. \"You're right, though. It was a very sweet moment, and I've a feeling it'll be one I treasure for a long while yet. I know it's not as exciting as the tale of you and your husband, but... Well I think I may just be less exciting myself.\" She chuckled. She honestly couldn't think of a better way for Mai to have her first kiss.\n\nThe topic did inevitably become to the political implications, however. Her cheeks burned a bit hotter at the mention of marriage, yet she focused on what she had practiced when imagining how she would discuss this. \"While I confess, having a bit of a longer courtship would be personally ideal, I know that what I want personally must take a supporting role to what is best for the clan. I brought this up to you, sister, not just to share a happy moment because I know we pursue an alliance with the Unicorn, and I know that this is a boon to that. A loving marriage provides a much stronger foundation that a purely political one, and I know that even if it might be sooner than we might plan freely, a union between Shinjo-san and I would be a loving marriage.\"\n\nShe smiled despite the more serious tone of the conversation. To be so lucky as to have a chance to wed for both love *And* Honor...\n\n\"I know that my status being higher, it would mean a greater honor for the Unicorn to accept. I know that this means closer scrutiny...\" She thought back to the dinner, and the seemingly severe nature of the Unicorn ambassador. While she had no doubt their interests were aligned, she also had no doubt that she might be somewhat more difficult to please. \"Yet I welcome it. For the Mantis, for myself, and for my love.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "As the topic shifted to marriage and the duty required of Kana, Mai was glad she could see the nuance of it all. Truly Kana was a wise priestess, taking in the scope of it all. \"Indeed, love is a mighty bond that has one wars and toppled kingdoms, all at once. You'd stand to bring great honor to the Mantis, in helping to solidify the union between us and the Unicorn. \n\n\"But, I can also respect that you may not know if that is right for you, romantically.\" Mai smiled sympathetically, knowing all too well about this sort of thing. \"It is rare that you take a liking to someone that is beneficial to all. It could very well be Benten's blessing, or Amaterasu smiling upon you, Kana-san. So...\" \n\nMai sighed, rubbing the back of her head. \"I will approve of your union, if and when the time comes. I will write a letter to Utaku Kazuko-sama when I can, better yet when your darling Temu-kun informs her of his intentions. That way we can discuss marriage for our alliance. I will do what I can to make this work, out of my respect for you, Moshi Kana-san.\" She gave the magistrate a pat on the head, rather playfully. \"Now, that might take some time, since it's no laughing matter, marriage. More time for you and Temujin to figure out your path ahead, it would seem.\" Mai winked at Kana, in case her little trick wasn't clear enough. \n\n\"I am very happy for you, Kana-san,\" Mai concluded, \"And I'm even more happy that you felt you could tell me this news with a smile.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was trying not to make it too obvious that she was beaming with pride at Mai's words. This was almost seeming too good to be true; she was glorifying her clan, her good friend and lord, *And* Finding true love. All the more reason to rise to whatever challenge awaited her in realizing it.\n\n\"I'll make sure Temu, um, Shinjo-san keeps me updated on how this discussion with Utaku-sama goes. I confess she strikes me as somewhat of an enigma, but I'm confident Shinjo-san will do a good job explaining the situation.\"\n\nGiggling a bit at the friendly pat, the nodded emphatically. \"Of course! Even the most auspicious marriages ought to be given the proper time to arrange. \"I also wanted to thank you, sister. You are my lord, and I would serve you loyally regardless, but... You've made me feel so much more than just a mere samurai in your employ. You've helped look after me even when I've made mistakes, and there's no words to describe how much I appreciate your support here.\" She bowed her head. \"So thank you.|\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Kana's gratefulness made Mai feel rather warm and elated, and in a way that was... Unexpected. She sipped her coffee, and couldn't help but smile and blush a bit. \"I'm glad to hear you say such kind things about me, Kana-san,\" She said, \"Though...\" \n\nMai sighed, and bit her lip. Should she confide in Moshi Kana? It seemed safe enough, her being a Sister and a sister in another way. \"...I must say, I feel like I'm not the same person I used to be, that I'm being thanked for _kindness_ of all things. I'm not known or made infamous for being a nice person. Not _ever,_ really. And yet, since I've had to step into the role of Ambassador, and take my hands off the more violent side of a Mantis' life... I feel so... _old and matronly.\"_ \n\nThe older shugenja scoffed at the sentence she just made. \"I don't know if it's reaching fifty or playing all these political games that's softened me up, but I am most certainly not the Pirate Queen from the Mountain of the Sun Goddess. I could got back to it, I think; the sea, fighting gaijin and sea monsters and the like, but I think despite how much I despise to play those courtier games, it feels rather nice to see things work out with just word and will. And I do believe I've gotten more enjoyment out of your news than I would have if you told me there were Meraenean ships on the horizon, and they demand to face me.\" \n\nIt was... An odd retrospect. Mai figured that at her age, there was no way she could just change. Not so much in so little time. Or, maybe she was _always be like this._ It was just a matter of the right place and time for the metamorphosis. \n\n\"Ah. Apologies, Kana-san.\" Mai laughed, shaking her head. \"I didn't mean to make this about me. It is _you_ we should be praising for your blessings from Benten.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana relaxed somewhat, quieting down to listen to Mai. She tried not to look too surprised at the mention that Mai was in her fiftieth year. It was an odd sort of dichotomy, how Mai managed to both embody the Centipede and Mantis at once. She had heard the stories of her past, and even now in many ways she still seemed the boisterous, forward epitome of the Mantis. Yet there was that kindness and compassion that defined their shared family.\n\n\"There's nothing to apologize for, Mai-san. You've been welcoming of my news, and more than willing to share in my celebration. It's just as important that I be a listening ear for you, after all! I imagine it can be an odd feeling, witnessing yourself changing in such a way and being entirely aware of it.\" She spoke. \"Yet the most important thing is whether or not these changes bring us more in line with the heavens, and whether or not these changes satisfy us. From the sounds of it, well... You sound happy, sister. Like the changes are welcome.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Kana's advice and musings on Mai's sudden epiphany put the older Shugenja at ease. It _was_ a good thing to move on and learn how to live a peaceful life. It was so funny, though; she came here to be a bully, to break into crane holdings and raise some hell, plunder goods, and terrorize the river of gold. Now, she was discussing marriage for clan peace and dinner parties. It was bizarre, but as Kana put it, welcome. \n\n\"See, that must be why Temu-kun loves you so much,\" Mai teased, \"You're so wise, even though you've not a single wrinkle on your face!\" She laughed, and let out a sigh of contentment. \"Moshi Kana-san, I am so happy for you in finding love in this world. As your Sister and your Ambassador, I'll do whatever I can to make that Shinjo boy your husband. You have my word.\" \n\nMai bowed to Kana, to show her respect to the fellow shugenja. \"Now, be a good Sister and let's pray away this hangover, yes? If I'm going to plan a letter to your lover's superior, I'd rather it be well-written and free of headaches.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana blushed somewhat at the compliment, but laughed and took it good humor. \"Just the one!\" She joked back, referring to the scar across her cheek. \n\nShe could feel a tug in it as her smile only grew wider and wider. At that moment Kana felt like she could take on the entire world, and whatever it had to throw at her. When she left her home in the Valley of the Centipede and stepped on her father's ship, she never imagined finding the joy and love that she had found here, and in the City of lies. She almost felt her eyes growing misty, doing her best to fight back on showing *Too* Much emotion.\n\n\"I, um...\" She took a moment to clear her throat. \"Your words give me strength, Mai-sama. I promise you that your faith and dedication to me will be repaid, if it takes the rest of my life.\" She rose, bowing lowly towards her.\n\n\"From the sounds of it... Perhaps the first thing I can do is call upon that favor from the kami? Shall we step out to the shrine?\"\n\n ||"
}
] | 267 | 4,003 |
291.25 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "As the door to the ambassador's office opens, it's somewhat faster as one would usually expect, some of the decorum that one should have when doing so lost in the too fast sliding. The result was inevitable, the smacking sound of wood on wood as the back of the sliding door met the frame, breaking the general low noise atmosphere that was attempted to be upheld in general like a thunderstruck. The door clearly was open too wide for the slender frame of Kitsune Meiko as she bowed to the room, though at least she did so from the customary seiza position.\n\nSliding in, she rushed to close the door behind her, though this time she did put more care into doing it silently, a flush of embarrassment on her cheeks from her mistake a few moments earlier.\n\n\"Mochi Mai-Sama... I... I must appologize for disturbing your time, but... I just got a letter and...\" The young woman's fingers hasten to seek the paper that was tucked into the collar of her Kimono, pulling out a dark navy colored sheet of fine paper that was decorated with a silver laden ink. Three blocks of writing, and on the backside, over the fold where the paper met itself, a mon stamped in just the same silvery color. A paper choice that was meant to impress.\n\n\"The courier wouldn't tell who sent him, but that it was sent to me and nobody else!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Hehehe... So cute, don't you think, Muku-chan?\" \n\nMai was 'showing,' her pet Centipede Muku-chan multiple scrolls with depictions of her two children, Tomichi and Fujiko. There were at least a dozen of them for each, a doe-eyed little girl with her mother's hair and tone, the other a black-haired you g man of fairer complexion that went from a rather timid lad to a scrappy, tough looking hoodlum. All the same, Mai doted over the pictures, recalling the times watching them both grow up. \"And _this_ one was after Tomi-kun's first sailing trip! Oh, and Fuji-chan's first spell! Oh, Muku-chan, my little babies are all grown up, but they're always going to be my widdle cutesy wutesy-\"\n\nThe door was slammed open with a crack, and Mai jumped, sending a scroll rolling up rapidly, Muku-chan stuck within. Mai looked to the door with a start, and was surprised to see this insolence came from Kitsune Meiko. \n\n\"Meiko-san? What's the meaning of this? I was, erm, very busy!\" She hurriedly tried to collect her many portraits together, the centipede scurrying out of the paper to curl up on the desk. \n\nMai raised an eyebrow at the letter, and took it from Meiko, offering a seat. She read it over, and with a scoff, set it down. \"Well, well, well,\" She laughed, \"Yasuki Rei-san moves swiftly...\" \n\nMai shook her head, and gave her attention back to Meiko. \"Well, Meiko-san, you seem to have received a letter from your first courting gentleman. Certainly one of many!\" She slid it back over to the young Kitsune. \n\n\"It's very romantic, don't you think?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"You... Believe this was sent on behalf of the Matchmaker?\" Kitsune Meiko asked after she settled on the seat, her cheeks still flustered from her mistake - and probably because of what the letter said. But as the older woman continued, it became somewhat clearer.\n\n\"Oh! You mean... Indeed, it could be... I mean, if it's a letter from such a suitor, even less a such enigmatic one! What should I do? I mean, Moshi Mai-sama, I never had such letters! What is the right response? Is it even someone that you might approve of at all? All I know from the words on this paper is... Well... I guess it's a rather elegant writing by a strong hand and they call themselves a carp. But otherwise I have no idea who even might be that mysterious suitor!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Once Meiko got hold of what Mai was trying to say, Mai smiled at the woman's excitement. \"The right response... Well, I couldn't tell you, really. None of my suitors sent me letters, other than to tell me they've decided to find another prospect.\" Indeed, a Gaijin-blooded wife wasn't the most wanted thing. \"But, first of all, calm yourself. The last thing you want to do is work yourself into foolishness.\" \n\nMai looked back at the letter, and mulled it over. \"Well, there were a few men that came up in my conversation with Yasuki Rei-san,\" Mai said. \"Yasuki Umeo was one, but there was also other prospects that Rei noted might be available. Either way, I think it's important to remember one thing: We don't _need_ to wed with the Crab.\" Mai stood up straight as she explained herself. \"The Crab are an honorable clan, and one I am fond of, being our cousin clan and all. But in the scheme of things, the Unicorn are far more important to us. That said, making fast friends of the Crab makes them less likely to side with anyone else. Not that I'd think they'd do something such as break their gigantic grudge against the Scorpion and join in cahoots with them. Ha! That'd be so out of character, I'd think they were replaced with Scorpion from the get-go...\n\n\"But, I digress.\" Mai rubbed her chin, and an idea came to mind. \"You know... I could just _ask the kami_ where this letter's from. Reflections of Pan Ku could give us the answer, or at least let us know where it was made to an extent.\""
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"But Moshi Mai-sama, you are a woman of many merits and were born with much higher standing than me. It is hard to believe that not a single suitor did write even a short missive to you.\" The young woman is quite flustered as she mulls over the information.\n\n\"I don't know of this Yasuki Umeo, but I believe many of the Yasuki are the patrons of the trade council of the Crab... To have used such elaborate ink... Is it a good sign that the crab who sent this, be they this Yasuki Umeo or not, used such resource to send this poem to request a song of mine? And... What would be the proper answer? I mean, I will dutifully choose whichever suitor is chosen for me, but I hardly know how to respond to this situation.\"\n\n\"The Reflections of Pan Ku... I do not know this prayer, but I think it was mentioned by a teacher of mine once. Doesn't it ask a kami of water to show or tell about an item? And you would do so on this letter on my behalf?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Oh, don't you start with that nonsense.\" Mai rolled her eyes at the flattery sent her way, and crossed her arms. \"I was a right hellion in my youth with a Gaijin father somewhere in the world and a horrible temper. If not for the Goddess and her blessing upon me, I'd be wed to some low-ranked lord's idiot son. But, I appreciate your kind words. If I didn't know better, I'd think you were courting _me.\"_ \n\nAs Meiko went over her musings on the possible Yasuki suitor, the letter, the message within and how to answer it, Mai let her go on her tangent. It was adorable, in a way, watching her try to get to the root of the problem until it reached a pause in the middle. \"Well, Meiko-san, there's plenty of ways to take it or interpret it.\" The Moshi pointed out the end of the letter. \"The poem asks if you'll sing for presumably him. But, he puts the place you'll meet, and the time to do so. Very bold, eh? He thinks you'll just come to where he wills you to. \n\n\"If I were you,\" Mai replied, \"I would send a letter back, and tell him where you'll meet _instead._ A man -or a woman, for that matter- shouldn't be allowed to think that you'll just go wherever they point like a puppy dog or some such thing. Besides, that tea house is Yasuki Rei's establishment. No doubt she's using it as a sort of power play. Similar to having the high ground in battle. And believe you me, my dear Meiko-san. This _is_ a battle.\" \n\nOn the note of the letter, Mai would nod. \"It's nothing all that difficult to me, \"Mai replied, taking the letter and fetching tea from her desk. She finished the cup so it could be filled with water, and after holding the paper enough to set on the water, floating carefully on top, Mai offered a prayer to the water kami. \"Water kami, those that move with the current and ripples, make this letter as transparent as your waters. Let me see what's hidden below the surface. _Reflections of Pan Ku.\"_ \n\nAfter a moment, Mai could learn a few things from the letter. \"It certainly came from the Crab Embassy, Mai announced, \"And it was made and delivered swiftly. No pussyfooting around. So, it wasn't just a mass-produced form letter that got stamped. A good sign... All the kami wish to say about the person that wrote it is that he is a man, and he's... Hm. Young, but old. That could mean many things...\" \n\nMai plucked the letter from the water so it didn't get waterlogged and soggy, and set it back on the table. \"The kami need not know names, but they have been a grand help. It's a man, with an old soul, who took the time to write this letter and have it sent posthaste. That doesn't say who he is, but it gives an idea of character.\n\n\"All the same, \"Mai said, \"I think you should write back. Change the location of the meeting. But don't _ask._ No, you _inform_ him that if he wishes to gaze upon you, he will need to find you. Men love the hunt, you see, and who wouldn't want to go on a hunt for a Kitsune, hm?\""
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Looking away in dismay as Moshi Mai puts the letter at risk in the bowl of water and with the ink in the corner starting to smear a little bit as a few droplets make it on top, the young Kitsune is trying hard to not lose her face.\n\nOnly when the letter is retrieved with only minor damage she picks it up with shaking hands, quickly trying to remove the rest of the water from it by shaking it first and then carefully dabbing a furoshiki against the paper. Swallowing her emotions, she does nod though, her eyes fixated on the paper as she dries the last spills.\n\n\"Young but old? Maybe someone... Older than me? But... I guess that might not be the worst. I mean, someone like that might satisfy whatever requirements you set up, Moshi Mai-sama.\"\n\nTurning the paper to see if managed to stop all damage, she sighs, putting the letter back on the floor in front of her as she looks up.\n\n\"Have... Him hunt for me? That... Sounds like a lot of things to set up. I mean, I do know one of the woods closeby a little, but... Do you mean like an actual hunt or more like... Have him follow clues and pointers? If... Oh.. If it was this, I might... Need to write a couple notes and prepare them to be there for him... But... Would it be too bad to have his hunt for me start somewhere at a different time but lead back to the time and place he thought about n the end?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"No, no, I merely mean an old soul.\" Mai tried to correct Meiko's thinking, extrapolating further. \"The water kami rarely lie, but they also rarely give a direct answer. But from what I understand, it leads me to think it's a man that's younger, but carries himself much wiser than his age would dictate. An old soul, not an old man.\" \n\nAs for Meiko's idea of what to do with the hunt, Mai laughed and shook her head. \"You needn't do all _that,\"_ she said, \"I just mean to say, put the man on his toes! What fox have you ever known to just walk into a hunter's trap? No, a fox should be chased, tricked, and eventually coerced into the place the hunter wants. In this case, a Crab.\" \n\nSo... Meiko's though might just work. The Moshi rubbed her chin, muttering as she did some figures in her mind. \"Well, that would be rather amusing, don't you think? Right some notes, send him around, just to get him back to where he started. If he accepts this, he really wishes to meet you. If he refuses, he's either a man that was looking for convenience or simply making good on a promise. So, I think you should set it up.\""
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Contemplating the words, Kitsune Meiko finally nods, brushing a loose streak of hair back behind her ear. \"It isn't a trap, do you think? But I will have to write an answer, and set up the little hunt. Is there a special colo that would be a good answer? I mean, the color of ink and letter should tell something, right? Something about the contents and sender.\"\n\nTaking a couple more moments, she lifted the letter again, turning it twice. \"A washi of cream color with leaves, and ink in russet brown?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I don't see how it could be a _trap,\"_ Mai replied, \"It doesn't seem likely. If the Crab were up to something nasty like that, I'd assume it was the Scorpion at play...\" \n\nAnd the Scorpion had plenty of reasons to come after her and the Mantis...\n\n\"Hm.\" Mai fell silent as she thought, barely hearing what Meiko said about the letter and ink color and other things the shugenja knew next to nothing about. \"Hm? Yes, yes, cream and leaves, brown rustlers, of course. Follow your heart, Meiko-san, and I'm certain it'll be heavenly. As for a trap... Since you're a maiden and you don't have family here to keep a watchful eye, It falls on me to provide that. So, bring my yojimbo with you on your little chance meeting. If this turns out to be something nefarious, I assure you, she'll keep you safe. \n\n\"For an added effect,\" She mused, \"I can watch as well. I've been to the Tea Garden more than a few times. I can view it, with the Water Kami's aid.\""
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Nodding at the words, Meiko careflly bowed, cheeks still a slight bit flustered.\n\n\"I would be grateful for all assistance you can render me. While I hope bringing your yojimbo will not be necessary, I also hope having her in the same building closeby enjoying tea would calm me.\"\n\n\"If you excuse me, I'll prepare to send an answer to the crab that sent this. Shall... Shall I use a name that... Alludes to me but isn't mine? He didn't use his name in this either...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai nodded with a smile on her lips. \"Of course, Meiko-san. When the letter arrived at the embassy about your arrival, I was asked to watch over you. I intend to do just that.\" It was all rather endearing, like planning for her own daughter's first dalliance. Which, come to think of it, was surely going to come up sooner than later. For now, though, Meiko had her attention and concern. \n\n\"I can assure you, Chiyoko-san is good at what she does. She's practically a fortune of safety and security, when she wants to be. You couldn't be in better hands.\" \n\nIt would seem this meeting was over, Mai giving a simple nod of understanding as Meiko asked to be excused. \"A name, hm? Maybe call him 'hunter,' and call yourself the 'Fox on the Run.' We _do_ want him to chase after you, don't we?\" She smirked, and motioned to the door. \"Now, off you go! I can't write the love letter for you, after all.\" \n\n||"
}
] | 261.5 | 3,495 |
253.466667 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "The little room at the back of the embassy had been sealed since the last afternoon as the young shugenja Kitsune Meiko prepared it. Now, the door opened again, the insides looked somewhat radical to anyone not used to the ways of the fox. The large hall had most of the expensive Tatami removed and stashed in the hidden cupboards in the walls, leaving only a square of four mats around the irori with a kettle. The heavy smell of sandalwood incense wafted from it, mixed with a little bit of other to create a somewhat earthly and woody aroma in this town with its smells so different.\n\nThe dark hardwood floor laid bare shimmered in the light passing through the opened doors to the garden. However, even then, the view into the garden wasn't what it used to be. Green and brown fabric hung from a bar right after the open doors to the garden, at least creating a rough illusion of the light in the castle of the fox, and green one expects when looking out.\n\nAnd so, Meiko is waiting for her clansmates, wearing a reddish brown furisode bound with a black obi decorated with an embroidery depicting scenes of the play that was named Kuzunoha.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, now ain't this familiar!\"\n\nTsuta announced her presence with the comment, stepping into the tea room and taking a moment to take in the scent of sandalwood. A soft clicking follows her arrival as the familiar white rabbit, Fuji-san, followed in after her. Tsuta was clad in her usual outfit; black hakama, Mantis green haori, and a reddish-brown headband and waistband.\n\n\"I mean I was looking forward to tea, especially in your company, Kitsune-san, but having it done up like home? I'm stunned, really.\" She bowed lowly to her. \"If you don't mind my asking, how long did you work on putting this together?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "\"A fair bit, I would wager.\" _A cultured sultry voice called out from behind Tutsu, walking in behind her a voluptuous woman in a reddish brown kimono with gold trim, her skin pale contrasting her jet black hair done up with a fancy hair piece, on that mimicked the shape of two big fox ears._\n\n\"This invite was a surprise to be sure, but not an unwelcome one.\" _She added taking a moment to enjoy the sandal wood permeating the air as well._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "The youngest of the foxes bowed deep from her position at the little stove, gesturing at the little cushions that marked the better seating positions for her guests. Bowing like this did put the pair of hairpins with their reddish kanzashi on display, keeping the black hair in check. \"I hope I did not interrupt any plans of yours with this invite, but I hoped to break the lull of the passing months in this town with too little trees with this.\"\n\nWaiting for the others to settle in, she did arrange a few bowls and a ladle to prepare tea for a short moment. She clearly didn't plan on a full tea ceremony, but to serve tea nevertheless.\n\n\"It really isn't much... And the servants did most of the heavy lifting. But where are my manners. Would you like a tea?\" She offered, reaching for the kettle of hot water and raising its lid. From a small bowl, she strew a small hand full of very finely ground tea leaves into it, stirring it with the ladle and letting it sit for a few moments. As she filled the bowls for her guests, the earthy aroma of pan fried tea added to the incense already in the air.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "\"Oh, no dear kitsune sister, t'was no inconvenience at all, in truth things have had a... Mmm... 'dull' start for a city with so much interest suffusing it.\" _The lovely woman said, offering a bow to her most gracious host before sitting down, eagerly watching as she made tea, trained eyes following every movement, the Tea Ceremony was something she knew as intimately as any lover, maybe more so._ ||Emphasis: Tea Ceremony||\n\n\"I would love some.\" She said with a warm smile, accepting cup but taking a moment to draw in the smells as well as let it cool a bit, tea was meant to be savored more then outright drank.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Under normal circumstances, Tsuta would have certainly made a comment on the unfamiliar Kitsune's arrival. Something along the lines of the day being even more blessed, or the usual sort of thing she was wont to say. Circumstances had made that a bit more... Awkward, however. After all, with the work the matchmaker was doing, the last thing she wanted was to put her foot in her mouth, which had become an increasingly common occurrence since arriving at the city.\n\nSo, Tsuta instead rested on formality, bowing to the unfamiliar clanmate. \"An honor to meet you. I am Kitsune Tsuta. I wasn't aware we'd be having additional company, but it's very nice to know that there's more of us here. At this rate we might even outnumber the Moshi,\" She joked, before turning her attention back to Meiko.\n\n\"No interruption at all. I'm always happy to take a little bit of lesiure time when it comes up.\" She took a moment to breathe in the scent of the tea, then bowed her head. \"Of course. Not much of a tea without tea, is it?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"The fault must be entirely on me. I had heard of the arrival of another of our clan and forgot to introduce one another. Let me remedy this.\" Before bowing to the two, the young shugenja made sure each had a cup of tea. \"I, Kitsune Meiko, welcome you two to this gathering. I hope the tea of convenience is to your liking, for I am not the most skilled in tea ceremony and the rigorous rules around it would forbid talking about trivialities or politics, or so I was taught.\"\n\nStretching her back again as she sat up, she smiled at the two, picking her own cup. \"The method of toasting a bit of tea cake and then grinding it to a very fine powder I was told would enrich the fire and earth tones in the tea, and I must admit the flavor follows decently.\"\n\nTsuta's comment about their numbers did cause a curious look from Meiko before she took a tiny sip of the hot tea. \"And the Yoritomo, if I am not mistaken. And we might already be more than Tsuruchi.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_Waiting for the generous young honest to finish and finally actually drinking a sip of tea, it was splendid if unrefined in technique and execution, however with a base founded on passion for the craft the younger Kitsune's talent for art of tea was sure to only grow._\n\n\"It seems good tea and better company have stripped me of my common courtesy, my apologies.\" _She said, gingerly setting down her cup before bowing slightly seated, adding;_\n\n\"I am Kitsune Akari, it's a pleasure to meet you both, t'was wonderful to learn I was not the only Kitsune in within the city, though I am only recent in years a member of the Kitsune, adopted to shed the worst of the pall that hangs heavy around the Tsuruchi, my father was Tsuruchi Shun.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah, well, a new member of the family is still a member of the family. Even if we're away from home, then, consider this a welcome,\" Tsuta began. \"So, did you get a chance to spend any time at Kyuden Kitsune before heading here? If I can ask, how long have you been joined with us?\"\n\nShe didnt' want to press her too hard, but Tsuta had learned that it was best to be asking questions of other people rather than just going on and on about herself. Even if she did think she *Was* Kind of impressive.\n\n\"No worries about the tea of convenience, as you say, Kitsune Meiko-san,\" She quipped, switching to full names to avoid confusion. \"Formality's got its place, but something a bit less... Rigid is best for getting us to know each other.\" She took a sip from her cup then, nodding in approval. \"Indeed. I'm started to appreciate a more fiery flavor in my tea since coming here. Lots of tea houses try to do something similar here, but I'd say you do it best, Kitsune Meiko-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"Ah, I hope it is a shared pleasure, Kitsune Akari-sama.\" Meiko remarked, offering an apologetic smile as she moved to drop the surname after, but using the full name to establish that she thought herself as of lower rank than her. \"I have never met Tsurushi Shun, and I sadly don't remember having heard of him. May I learn if his service to the Kitsune lead to your adoption, and if you were chosen to continue a specific line of the family, like I was tasked to, Akari-sama?\"\n\n\"The Ancestral forests of our family are a pleasure I hope you were allowed to see and witness. Maybe you might even have met one of the few Byakko. A meeting that even I, who grew up learning and serving in the temples and shrines, only had... I guess trice since I was allowed to take the blade of my adoptive father and my adoptive mother's scroll case.\" ||Adopted, not Born Weakness||\n\n\"Indeed, Tsuta-san, formality has its place, but I hope this isn't one of those. The method of roasting the tea before turning it into a powder as fine as that used for the tea ceremony however I can't claim to be the best in. Surely the Phoenix or Dragon must have mastered it far better than me for I was told that the process came from that direction.\" She bows slowly, taking a sip from her own cup. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_Reaching behind her with one hand and into the ornate 'bow' of her obi sash, the lovely eldest of the Kitsune present drew out a sheathed tanto in it's saya, placing it on the table and replied to Tutsa;_ \n\n\"Only briefly for my formal adoption into the clan, I was presented with this as a gift. Sadly I only had a mere week to enjoy the forests there before duty called me elsewhere, I do hope to get the chance to visit again soon.\"\n\n_The tanto in question was ornate gold with a black saya depicted on it a fox looking wistfully up at a full moon. Her showing this concealed weapon was intended to be a sign of trust to her fellow Kitsune sisters._\n\n\"Father was a ronin for a good portion of his life, he fell in with a group that would become the Tsuruchi family, he was one of titular Tsuruchi yojimbo, he died thwarting an attempt on her life, when she reclaimed her family's castle she named it's main gate in my father's honor, the wakizashi you saw me walk in with, now besides me, was once part of his daisho.\"\n\n_Her words held great sorrow in them, it always pained her to speak of her father's passing, though an honorable death in service to his ladyship it still deprived Akari of a father and her mother a husband, both of whom Shun loved more then anything._ ||Lonely Weakness||\n\n_Talk of tea and the Phoenix and Dragon snapped her back to witful aplomb, remarking playfully;_ \"Oh don't ever let my mother hear you say that, my mother would give you a tongue lashing that would make death by a thousand cuts seem quick and painless.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, the Dragon and Phoenix aren't here to correct me in enjoying it, so I think I'll continue enjoying it, Meiko-san.\" There was a warmth to her smile as she spoke, perhaps feeling as though she could let her guard down amongst clanmates at least a little bit. \n\nAs the topic turned to ancestry and fathers, she maintained composure, even as she lowered her head somewhat, listening to Akari's tale. Picking up on the emotion in her voice, she glanced to her, hoping to offer her some sort of comfort.\n\n\"Your father sounds to be a most honorable man. Even though a life given in service of the clan is one to be celebrated... I understand the loss. My own father died in service as well. He protected my mother from a Bakeneko that had wandered to close to the forest. You've my condolences, Akari-san.\"\n\nShe offered a sad smile, nursing her cup of tea as she spoke.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"That's a good point, Tsuta-san. And even if they were, they'd just tell us how they believe we should do it right I guess.\" *Chuckling ever so lightly, the young shugenja glanced over to the dagger presented, the head tilting a tiny bit before she nodded.*\n\n\"A well made set of fittings. A gift that is quite unlike what most blades of the Kitsune look like, but still carries the distinct style of our family. A fox and a moon, how poetic.\"\n\n*Gesturing a tiny bit to where she put down her own Wakizashi and scroll case, Meiko nodded.* \"These two were given to me after the departure of those that accepted me as their daughter. The scroll case was that of Kitsune Tamako-sama, who went to assist the fight against the Forces of the dreaded Bayushi Shouju but never returned. I received it at my Gempuku. The blade used to belong to Kitsune Masakatsu-sama, who went to the eternal slumber shortly after the Fox joined the Yoritomo while serving on one of their ships, only two years after I had received the case of his wife.\"\n\n*The blade was resting in its saya and hilt made without decor, and neither Samé nor Ito adorned the grip. If it wasn't a Fox blade, one might assume it was the furnishings for storing an old blade. The scroll case meanwhile was made from an almost grey wood.*\n\n\"My heart is weighed by your loss, Akari-sama, especially after you will not pass on the name your father was given on, but I feel honored that you will instead carry on the legacy of one of the Fox, who so gratefully accepted me as one of theirs. If you want to share, would you tell us who took you as their daughter by giving you this Tanto? And... I hope the question is not too indiscreet, but do you have plans for who to wed?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "\"I'm sure your father and mine are became fast friends in the hereafter, Tsuta-sama, father too spoke of the occasion encounter with yokai, he survived an ambush by a Kamaitachi one night on a lonely road, he'd point out the scars and regale any with ears to listen, whether they wanted to or not.\"\n\n_She giggled, before listening to Meiko-sama praise of her weapon, placing it back in it's hiding place in her obi;_ \"I found it so, I commissioned no details about it either, the smith who forged it was 'inspired the moment he saw me', and created it with in it's unique flair without any further input. 'Gon' has been a faithful, if subtle companion ever since, I am rarely if ever without it, nor feel truly alone with it near.\"\n\n_Both of the other Kitsune would likely know that Gon could translate as 'Little fox', from a folk story of a titular fox character of the same name. T'was a somber tale who's lesson was that everyone had to accept their fate._\n\n_Listening intently as the younger Meiko spoke of her own passed down relics, nodding along to show she understood their significance, when conversation turned to her adoption and choice of life partner, she couldn't help but giggle;_\n\n\"My adopted mother is Kitsune Ashiya, she too was adopted at much the same age I was way back when. Every other Kitsune who petitioned to be my adopter saw me for my looks and manners, but she, despite her blindness, saw me for who I was underneath it all, so I accepted her offer and became her daughter.\"\n\n_She paused for a sip of tea, mulling over her response to the second query, replying to it with;_ \"As for suitors? I have many, I daresay I could have anyone I wanted as husband or wife save mayhaps the Divine Emperor himself, but no one truly sees me like mother Ashiya does.\" ||Weakness(s) Overconfident and Lonely||\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"That's a lovely thought. I'll be thinking that myself from now on,\" She replied, showing a genuine smile to her. Her eyes were drawn to the tanto as well; while the discussion of shared loss had taken her attention before, she was able to take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship before it was put away. \n\n\"Indeed, it's quite a gift. It speaks to the honor of Kitsune-sama to have prepared something like that for her adopted daughter. Your story only shows that further. It's an unfortunate rarity to be seen as we really are, sometimes.\"\n\nTurning her attention to Meiko, she listened to the story of he blade and scroll case, making note of the reverence she had for her ancestors. \"Speaking of craftsmanship, the quality of what was left to you is evident too, Meiko-san. It's also good to hear of your ancestor's honorable service.\"\n\nShe suddenly felt an urge to share herself. Even as she did not carry her prized possession with her. \"As for myself... By bow was given to me by my aunt, Kitsune Yuki-sama. It was my grandmother, Kitsune Haru-sama's, who served until her death as one of our clan's rangers. She taught my aunt all she knew, who in turn taught me all she knew. A yumi is a bit impractical to bring to tea... But if you'd like to see I'd love to bring it around.\"\n\nShe did however, pause a bit at Akari-sama's comment. \"Well.. I'm certain you do indeed have many people who would indeed like to know you,\" She replied.\n\n||"
}
] | 238 | 3,802 |
209.142857 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "It had been some time since the Mantis embassy had seen a new face. Not that the faces who were already here weren't doing well, but people were a resource like any other, and having more were only going to help the Mantis in their plans for the city. Aki was busy attending to her studies (or at least Kana had desperately convinced herself that's what she was up to,), which was for the best as inviting a new arrival to the embassy was maybe a bit *Too* Much of a test of etiquette at this point.\n\nKana was dressed in her usual clothing for such occasions - orange slit-leg kimono adorned with embroidered mantis' and centipedes, and tied with a jade gree Obi. The sleeves would be just a bit tight around her biceps before flaring out around her wrists, and her jade earrings dangled as she bounced on the balls of her feet, awaiting the new arrival.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Finally, to be in more welcoming environs, if not more familiar. It isn't like he hadn't been here before on temporary stays (mostly just giving time for cargo to be moved) but now? He had an assignment.\n\nHe was dressed to impress, if only to show his contemporaries here that he meant business. A shorter *Eboshi* Of yellow-trimmed teal atop his head, hair done up and decorated with a few masculine pins. His kimono was positively luxurious, sumptuous silk that could only have come from back hom. Decorated with the *Mon* Of the Mantis on the back, the majority of it bore a teal pattern in the shape of waves, while the green and yellow provided accents and images of yellow citrus flowers.\n\nHe stepped inside slowly, a scroll case slid into his obi while in his hand was his folded fan.\n\nAs soon as the doors shut, prim and propriety was scattered to the four winds as the Yoritomo made his way through the embassy to meet with the clan Magistrate. Once outside her door, he would drop to a knee and bow low, announcing himself with a call."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana had to try to hide her surprise. She was used to being given a bit more deference once she had been named as a clan Magistrate, but she'd never had anyone take a knee before her. Still, she knew it came from a place of appreciation and etiquette. She returned the bow, and smiled warmly.\n\n\"Ah, you must be Yoritomo-san! It is an honor to make your acquaintance. I am Moshi Kana, clan magistrate for the city of Ryoko Owari Toshi. I trust the journey to the city was agreeable? Were you coming directly from the Mantis islands, or elsewhere?\"\n\nWhile she might have been a bit forward (and by some's standards excessive) with her questioning, there was a genuine enthusiasm as she spoke. It seemed that she genuinely did want to get to know more about Sadao. She took a moment to make not of his appearance as well; much of the Samurai stationed in the city had been cut from somewhat of a rougher cloth, with a few exceptions. A less charitable soul might say they lived up to their reputation as looking like brigands. This one, however, might even impress a Crane with the way he presented himself. It made her all the more curious.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Indeed, he looked appropriately preened and presented enough to fit in with a Scorpion or Crane court. They could make a more comfortable splash back on the Islands.\n\nRemaining bowed, he heeded her words with a deeper nod, before speaking. \"It is an honor to be in the presence of Moshi-sama, this one is Yoritomo Sadao. Moshi-sama's concern over this one's travels are deeply appreciated, and this one can only speak of praises. We Mantis are, as always, accommodating along the Kawa no Kin. May this one humbly present to Moshi-sama a report from the latest shipment? This one is keen to see how well-received our spices and lacquer will be.\"\n\nVery proper, very eloquent. Sadao was aware the Mantis families could be... Eccentric, but the Moshi were arguably the most traditional, and moreso, pious. He wanted to afford the magistrate proper respect, and it was given, perhaps a little excessively.\n\nHe wanted to make a good impression."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah! Right down to business, then?\" She asked, still a little surprised at just how formal Sadao was. Her mind did go to the brighter side of it. The Mantis, of course, could play the social game of Rokugan well when needed, and someone with such clear devotion to it was only going to be a benefit to the clan.\"Of course! I would be happy to accept the report!\" She replied, cheerfully, giving thought as to how to put the Yoritomo at ease. \n\n\"Before I do, though, I do know you've just arrived, and have probably have been traveling for some time. Do you need something to eat, perhaps a drink? Shall I take a moment to show you around the embassy or the wharves?\" There was clear sincerity in her voice at the offer. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Bowing a little bit lower, Sadao said, \"This one merely wishes not to take up more than the necessary amount of Moshi-sama's valuable time. This one appreciates the offer, and will graciously accept a short tour, and if possible, followed by tea.\"\n\nHe did reach for the scroll case at his obi, waiting for the magistrate's confirmation whether or not to hand her the scroll. His face, right now, was stark, studious, nis *On* Trained and perfect right now. She was more than just a Mantis. She was their Clan magistrate here in this city, and therefore deserved the utmost deference and respect.\n\nHe was, right now, just a lower-echelon courtier. Perhaps that may change in due course.\n\n\"Ah, forgive this one for not specifying. A tour of the embassy would be most welcome.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was starting to worry for Sadao's back at this point. She motioned for him to stand up, and hand him the scroll. \"Please, be at ease, Yoritomo-san. You are amongst clan and kin here. You honor me with the respect and consideration you give me, but if this embassy is to be your home, I would have you feel at home.\" \n\nKeeping the same warm, inviting smile, she started out past the entryway, and to the courtyard and gardens. \"Here is our courtyard. You'll often find your clanmates out and about here when Lady Sun smiles upon us. Just down there we have a shrine to Lady Sun herself, should you wish to meditate or offer prayers. You might occasionally see a rather large centipede; that's only Muka-chan. She's no danger provided you don't provoke her and keep your distance! Over there we have quarters for the Ashigaru and servants...\" She spoke, heading over in that direction. \"Any questions so far?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "When given proper permission to relax, at home the way a Mantis would, Sadao certainly seemed less rigid, and more fluid in his movements. Instead of bowing again, he simply nodded his head in affirmation with her wishes.\n\nHe followed her along into the gardens, noting the plant life that may be present. At the mention of a big centipede, his eyes widened briefly, but continued along without question. Sadao followed her along towards the ashigaru and servants' quarters. As far as questions go...\n\n\"Is the shrine to Amaterasu-no-kami open to the public, or is it strictly a Moshi, and therefore Mantis, holding?\" Honestly a good question. Keeping the faith was ever so important. \"I know I speak into the territory of logistics and the like, but I would know what support we already have present within our Clan. Moshi-sama need not be specific, but I must have some idea on what sort of a presence we have in this city in Shosuro territory.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, there is the Temple of the Sun which is open to the general public. Our shrine here, though? I wouldn't object to an honored gust visting and paying its respects, but I certainly wouldn't want to establish any part of the embassy as public territory. Especially not in a city such as this,\" She explained. \"I trust you've had a chance to hear the stories of the city's reputation, Yoritomo-san?\" She didn't intend to scare him; after all, it wasn't as though you were liable to stabbed *Every* Time you took a step outside, or anything like that. Still, the dangers of the city had to be known.\n\n\"In regards to our own affairs? We've been remaining focused on building a presence within the wharves and merchant quarters. If I'm to speak with fully honesty with you, we might not be in position to take the city entirely, but we are forming alliances, and controlling the trade along the river will ensure we have a place in that alliance,\" She explained. \"Things have been going smoothly for the most part. We reach out and build relationships with the merchants, and ensure they and their goods are protected in exchange for proper tribute. Lest you worry, there is no trouble if they do not wish to use our services. Only if they use them and do not pay.\"\n\nShe rolled her shoulders for a moment, seeming to become a bit more serious as she continuted to speak. \"That said, there are firemen who do take more than their share, and there is a minor clan that seeks to carve a spot for themselves in our domain. Tell me, are you familiar with the Otter clan?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "These all made perfect sense to Sadao. He listened, quietly, looking around to enjoy the scenery here and there. \"I have heard tell of the city's reputation, Moshi-sama. However, as a form of security, I must politely ask for a refresher, or if there have been updates, as my knowledge may be outdated. Reputation only goes so far.\"\n\nHis brows twitched just a hair at the notion of the Mantis being in a position to take the city. That felt inadivsable, to him. The Mantis were already spread quite thin, with the Moshi holdings up north, the Tsuruchi much the same, the Kitsune in their forests to the southeast, and the Islands of Spice and Silk much further south. It was as advantageous as it was risky. \"Alliances are good. Trade domination is, in part, a goal.\"\n\nA light breeze sent his kimono and hair blowing just a tad. \"How bad are these firemen gangs? Should I employ some of the Yoritomo Courtier techniques with them?\" He wondered. \"I know nothing of the Otter.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "She did notice something seemed to be bothering him as she gave the report of what had been happening in the city, ||Investigation 6|| but didn't press the issue. There'd of course be a time and place for such things. \"Indeed. I'd say trade domination may indeed be our primary goal in this city. If we're not to be given the city itself, then we need to ensure that whatever becomes of it, that the Mantis are an unignorable presence!\" She seemed genuinely enthusiastic regarding the goal and the progress made, a satisfied look on her face as she continued speaking.\n\n\"As for the firemen gangs... Well, until he sustained an injury rendering him incapable of serving, one of our Samurai was intending to engage them. Loathe as I am to admit it... It would not be practical to to just crush the gangs that are behaving more as brigands than those providing a service for a variety of reasons. The main gang whose actions are becoming excessive are Strong Arm. If you think you would be of benefit there, I'd definitely support you in further addressing the issue! As for the Otter, in my experience they're a minor clan holding a grudge over our elevation. As such, they seek to undermine us. A direct approach is off the table, by the Emperor's decree. We either must demonstrate we are better for merchants or more reliable than the Otter, or strike a deal with them.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "\"If we're going to ensure mercantile domination, we should at least try to get some of the more pliable gangs under our heel. I get the feeling, however, that for now we're on the up-and-up? Honorable business first?\" Which in itself was contradictory, mercantile pursuits were considered beneath their kind. \"I am satisfied if we manage go carve a stable niche for what we do best here in this city. Though...\"\n\nHe looked down a moment, trying to put thoughts into words, without trying to suggest insult to his own dojo or the like. \"Moshi-sama, if the danger here is as severe as you say... I am trained in self-defense, as any samurai should be. I could... Stand to learn more. Do we have an active dojo?\" At the mention of the Otter's motives, he seemed genuinely puzzled. \"That shatters credulity, the Otter dislike our elevation? The Three Man Alliance alone shows the strength of Minor Clans when they come together. Yoritomo-dono's gambit merely paid off in the best way possible. Is it envy, I wonder?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Of course. There's always brushes with the underworld, of course, but we do hold ourselves to a certain standard. Undoubtedly, there are those who would like us to live up to all the most negative perceptions of us. That said... Don't mistake that as us being afraid to act. We actually went on a small trip to deal with bandits on the river.\" She cracked a smile, evidently proud of what she had done. \"If only the ones situated in the city were so easy to deal with...\"\n\nShe shook her head a moment, and returned her attention to the rest of Sadao's questions. \"SO! We do have a Tsuruchi dojo specializing in archery! There are other dojos managed by other clans, such as Jotomon's, managed by the Dragon, and Blessed Mountain, managed by the Crab. While I would not live in fear every time I stepped out, the gangs are not to be underestimated. Some even say they're behind the death of a Crane duellist...\"\n\n\"But as for the Otter? I think you've got it exactly. Speaking with one of their Samurai, she seemed decidedly resentful we were elevated and they were not.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "\"The Scorpion can try to deal with their own bandit infestation,\" Sadao commented quickly, \"If we maintain the river for our own business, that cements our position all the more.\"\n\nHe took a pause as he listened to the rest of what the Magistrate had to say. He let an arm hang to the side, adjusting his sleeve with a slow swing. \"I wouldn't disrespect our Clan by learning at another Clan's dojo,\" He said softly. \"But perhaps I can hone what I know at the Crab dojo. The Kaiu know their way around a tessen, don't they?\"\n\nAs far as the Otter go, the Magistrate pretty much confirmed everything Sadao needed to know."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well... No, that's what we did,\" She explained, smiling. \"It was one of my first acts in the city, as a matter of fact, speaking to how the Mantis would take the lead on the bandit threat as it concerned the river. At the time we were allies with the Scorpion, but while that alliance might have come and gone, it's still important to establish credibility. If we can't show that we have something to offer the city, then there's no question that we'll be on the outside looking in no matter what decision gets made in Winter. Plus now there is no question over who owns the river. Or rather, there won't be once we deal with our Otter problem...\"\n\nShe found herself struck speechless for a moment, however. She wasn't quite sure how one came to the conclusion that training at another family in the Mantis' dojo was disrespectful, but going to the Crab clan wasn't. When she did finally speak, she cleared her throat. \"I am certain that they do. The Crab have been our historic allies, and have also aided us in our operations on the river.\"\n\n||If he's got good investigation or courtier, he would notice that Kana is much more stiff in how she speaks about the, and if it's I'd say 4+, he'd pick up on a hint of bitterness in her tone."
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "It didn't occur, until at the moment in the magistrate's tone, that Sadao made a gaffe in presumption of another Clan's dojo instead of one of his own. He drew his sleeve up to cover his mouth, and bowed low.\n\n\"Forgive my breach, magistrate,\" He said with sincerity, and some volume, to emphasize. \"I misunderstood the nature of the dojo recommendation. I did not realize you were talking about *Our* Dojos, and opening up the doors to the *Others.\"* An honest mistake, but one he knew he should pay for. This was *Not* Reflective of the attitudes, and aptitudes, that he was supposed to be bringing.\n\nHis head bowed, he felt flushed, shutting his eyes. He felt his chest tighten, and he tried to control his breathing. *Don't cough. Don't cough. Don't cough,* He thought rather intensely to himself."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana seemed somewhat taken aback by Sadao's response. She didn't think that she had said anything to put the poor fellow back on edge again. It took her a few moments for things to sink in, though, that perhaps personal feelings might be slipping in to the way she was speaking. She looked a bit embarassed, and covered her mouth. \"Ah, no, the fault is mine, Yoritomo-san! Please, understand that I am fully sincere when I speak of my appreciation for the Crab. Our operation could not have been a success without their bravery and martial prowess. I only mean to say that I am certain you could visit their stoic boulder dojo. Moshi-sama and myself could put in a good word with you; we've certainly some credibility when it comes to hand to hand combat, after all!\"\n\nShe bowed, a light blush coming up from her cheeks to the top of her head. \"Again, my sincerest apologies if I have given you the wrong impression!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao, in good faith, kept his head down. \"Moshi-sama has done nothing of the sort. The fault is mine, I was merely ignorant of the placement of our own dojo here. This has been corrected, and I will study in a Mantis dojo, before I shame my family by going to another Clan's instead.\"\n\nAll this embarrassment and confusion, because he wanted to learn how better to thump foreheads with his folded tessen.\n\n\"Once more, I apologize for the breach and miscommunication, Magistrate-sama.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana almost chuckled in spite of herself. Here the two were insisting on apologies for apparently very different offences that the other hadn't even noticed or been all that bothered by. \"Let's just forget the last little exchange and call it even then,\" She declared, standing up to her full height once more. \"In terms of a tessen, I confess I'm not the most informed as to where the best location would be. I have one for more pressing situations, but for the most part I use my hands,\" She explained. \"I would recommend Blessed Mountain dojo, however. The instruction there is certainly of worthy quality. I've had quite a few rousing spars there myself! T- I mean, one of my sparring partners has been learning there, and has been off to a very good start.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao was quick to follow the direction and forget the whole little thing. \n\n\"I admit I should train bare handed as well,\" He admitted. In addition to other necessary combat skills. Even though he was no bushi, dishonorably sorts may not care about that distinction.\n\n\"Blessed Mountain? I shall endeavor to find it and study, if I cannot, I will make do. Mantis do emphasize the kama and other small weapons.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah, well, there's certainly many around here who are capable and I think would love to offer you guidance in these arts. As for hand to hand, while there's the Blessed Mountain dojo, I'd be happy to offer some guidance around that as well! I don't want to sound overly prideful, but I feel I'm capable enough that I would be able to impart some lessons! While Moshi-sama herself is rather busy, she's very capable as well. I myself have had a good spar with her!\"\n\nKana's excitement was palpable, and perhaps led to her carrying on a bit more than she otherwise might. Of course, with the new Mantis showing some new interest, it was easy for her to get carried away.\n\n||"
}
] | 211 | 4,392 |
483.818182 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "The sun already passed its highest point when a young woman in a brown Kimono approached the Embassy of the Mantis, first from the northern side and then following the road between the Mantis and Crane until she arrived at the gate of the compound facing south. While the russet color of the Kimono might appear amiss in the noble quarter, there is a Wakizashi at her side that marked her as a Samurai of some sort, even if its decor was quite plain. In any way, the formality of her Kimono was quite lacking, no proudly displayed mons of size. Though still she doesn't exactly traveled alone down the road from the side of the city hall, as she was accompanied by a pair of sailors, their Haori marking them as belonging to the crew of a Mantis ship that had arrived with the noon. Between them, they carried a box of black lacquered wood.\n\nStopping by the gate, the young woman reached into the fold of her Kimono and offered a few folded papers to the ashigaru on guard. \"Please tell your superior that Kitsune Meiko has arrived to assist this embassy of the Mantis. The traveling papers have been stamped and seen in the Harbor.\"\n.\n\nWhile the guard told his superior, who again told his and had the papers trickle up the chain of the embassy's hierarchy, the young Kitsune waited with dignity next to the gate to hear back about her inquiry. Even as she might have demanded so, she did not order the guard to let her through, or even ask for allowance to take the steps over the boundary. \n\nAs the sun wandered over the sky and finally word trickled back to the attendants to bid her in, the gentle smile was still on her face as she actually bowed to the ashigaru for his diligent service before following him into a small room. After asking the sailors to leave the box with her, she allowed them to return to their ship or whatever other duty they would have left after the escort.\n\nLeft alone for the moment, the young Kitsune opened the black container to arrange a scroll on a little reading desk before she knelt down into seiza to wait once more, her hands resting flat on her upper thighs, even as time passed, and the seating position started to become uncomfortable.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai rolled her wrist and paced her fingers as they started to cramp. In front of her were dozens of writs, receipts, and other bits of paperwork from the last month's expenses. Why the Kami blessed the woman with a knack for mathematics was beyond her, as she was horribly bored at the figures in front of her. However, she _was_ good at it, and found some zen in the monotony. Yes, there was something about being stuck in a meandering motion that was calming, like a ship on a calm sea that must simply travel down the path-\" \n\n\"Moshi-sama.\" One of the servants announced his presence, bowed, and presented a missive. \"A shugenja of the Kitsune Family, Kitsune Meiko, has arrived with travel papers.\"\n\n\"Oh, thank the Lady,\" Mai said, hastily getting up. She may have just been coping; monotony was _dreadful,_ and she welcomed the new arrival and the distraction from her work. \"Send her in to the sitting room, and make tea. Something... Woodsy for our Fox.\" The servant bowed, and hurried off to get things ready. \n\nAfter a few more minutes of waiting, a rather tough-looking servant woman would approach Meiko, but bowed with the proper respect. \"Kitsune-sama,\" She said, \"Moshi Mai-sama is ready to see you. Please, if you'll follow me.\" The servant would escort the shugenja to a nice, comfy sitting room, where the ambassador was waiting. \n\n\"Ah, Kitsune Meiko-san. Welcome.\" Mai bowed to her fellow shugenja. \"I am Ambassador Moshi Mai, Daughter of Amaterasu. It is a pleasure to have you here in the city. I will have to thank Kitsune-dono for providing this aid.\" She motioned to some soft cushions, where two cups awaited. \"Tea is being prepared, but for now, come, sit.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Casting her amber eyes on the servant as the door opens, Kitsune Meiko offers a bow towards the woman before nodding at the instruction to follow so she could be seen. Reaching for the ground to give herself just a tiny bit assistance to get back to her feet, she asked for just a moment to get up. \"In just a moment. I need to take something with me, if we are to see... Did you just say the Lady Mochi Mai?\" \n\nAs she repeated the name, her movement halted a heartbeat, and the eyes of light brown opened just a little wider. Repeating the nod, she returned to her movement to get up, trying her best to hide the light grimace when blood flooded back into parts of the legs that had been deprived of it in the seating position.\n\nCollecting both the scroll she had prepared to present to whoever was to see her, she then quickly gathered a cylindrical box of greyish wood from the black lacquer chest. Only so equipped she follows the servant along, a hand quickly checking the seat of her hair.\n\nAs the door is presented to her, she kneels in front of the crack, using her left to push the door a few inches, before she uses her right to open it far enough for her figure and a build. Without so much as saying something so far, she bowed deeply, almost to a kowtow, before she pushed herself forward on her knees into the room, with two movements. Turning, and trying her best not to show her back to the Ambassador, she reached for the door with the left once more, pulling it closed halfway, before once more swapping the hands to pull it almost closed, and then using the tiny wooden handle to push the last bit closed.\n\nTurning back to the room now, the young Kitsune repeats the kowtow to the Ambassador, staying with her head close to the ground until her name is spoken, and only then slipping into a normal seiza.\n.\n\n\"Hai, O-Ambassador-no-kimi, Captain of the Shibamura Mochi O-Mai-sama. I must apologize for my appearance, as I have just arrived with the ship not a full hour ago. As you said, Kitsune Meiko is the name I carry since my Gempuku, and I bring word from Kitsune O-Ryosei-dono.\"\n\nHaving introduced herself like this, she slipped back to standing, shuffling over to the cushions to settle back, but using the more formal seiza than settling onto the pillows leisurely. Bowing deeply again, she offers the scroll that she had prepared to hand over with both hands.\n\n\"The Lady of the Fox wishes to extend her greetings to those that represent the Clan Mantis in the town that is known to spin stories and tales. In her wisdom she asked for one of her family's name to assist in the clan's pursuits here, and my late mother's maternal aunt suggested that I take this this chance to prove that I wear the name not in error.\" Inhaling a moment, her heart beat like a Taiko drum on the eve of battle.\n\n\"As a personal gift, I wish to offer you this painting, showing the forest of Kyuden Kitsune from the chambers I used to inhabit in the Sannomaru, the third courtyard of the castle.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai never did get used to the vast amount of praise that came with an ambassadorship. She had respect and fear from her crew, and she got more among shugenja back at the Castle of the Centipede, but _this_ was something different. It wasn't bad, per se, but sometimes she felt like people took more time lauding over titles than using them. \n\nAll the same, she appreciated the long list of her accolades and credentials. \"You forgot about 'Daughter of Amaterasu,' and 'Fairest Widow in all of Ryoko Owari Toshi,' but I can hardly fault you. That's a lot to remember off the top of your head, hm?\" Mai chuckled, hoping her teasing was taken in jest as she often did. \"Don't worry about the attire, Kistune-san; I've spent weeks on the sea, and I can assure I was dressed _much_ more poorly than you find yourself today.\" \n\nThis Meiko was polite, very much so. It was actually appreciated; Kana was a polite one as well, but much like Mai, she was also running many roles, violent ones when necessary. So, a polite Kitsune was a nice touch to maintain a good image for the Mantis in the city. \n\nThe gift that was offered was impressive, and at sight Mai fell in love with it. But, like any good Rokugani, she declined twice before \"Begrudgingly\" Accepting on the third attempt. \"I suppose I'll just have to accept, if you're so insistent,\" Mai replied, \"But only if you relax a spell. You don't need to sit at attention.\" She called over a servant to retrieve the painting, and informed to have it set up in her office so she could have a touch of nature to open it up a spell. \"I will make certain to write Kitsune-dono, to thank her for the kind words, the grand painting, and the polite shugenja, too!\"\n\nSoon enough, another servant arrived with lapsang souchong tea, a delightfully earthy concoction. The servant poured under Mai's command, and to break the wait, Mai sipped hers first, signaling that Meiko can enjoy as well. \"You'll find that while respect is expected here at the embassy,\" Mai started, \"But I am no strict or demanding of titles and the like. Moshi-sama will suffice here with me. As you pointed out, I am the captain of a ship. A ship of surly, rambunctious heimin. As a matter of fact, it took me ages to get the crew to address me properly, since the often called me 'Mama Mai' when we were out to sea.\" \n\nA passing servant nodded to confirm Mai's claim, much to her amusement. \"Now that that's covered, tell me more about you. I'm sorry to say that I never got the chance to delve into Kitsune lands. Much too busy out on the ocean, you see.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Bowing again, the young Kitsune did raise her right hand a little, reaching for the wooden box she had brought to get it into a different position as she slipped sideways, her behind off the feet and the knees next to one another. It was loosening the seiza into a more relaxed seat, but still easy to regain formality with. \"If you wish me to ask the kami for a spell on your behalf, I could fix the blemishes that my clumsy hand could not prevent on the scroll. Had you not insisted that it was worthy enough I would have done so right away to make it acceptable to the eyes of yours and your visitors.\"\n\nClearing her throat a little, the young woman nodded at the request, her fingertips resting on the wooden box. \"If you like, I will tell you of the lands of the Kitsune. As you surely know, it wasn't long after the Kirin left to follow O-Kami-no-Shinju into the burning sands, that the last of the Kirin built Otaku Palace. But then the Lion came to the lands that were given to those of Shinju by the Hantei, becaue the few of the Otaku could not hold back the tides of nanbanjin. Those that had remained to welcome their brethren back with all that they missed when they would return couldn't stand against the legions from both sides, and when they impolored O-tenno-heika, even the shining Genji could not bring back those that were lost and which had fallen to the claws of the Matsu. But he did gift them the Kitsune Mori and all that could be reached within a days travel around. And to protect the last of his sister's followers, he decreed them the Clan of the Fox, and that nobody may wage war against a clan of such minor size.\"\n\nInhaling after she recounted the founding story of the fox, the young Kitsunes fingers kept tracing the outlines of the old woodedn box. \"This container was made from the woods of that forest, possibly many generations ago. When I became a Kitsune, it had served her and her father to carry their scrolls of sacred paper and prayers.\"\n.\n\n\"I was told that the tree it was made from had fallen in a storm at the end of fall, the same season that I was registered to be born in the large records that are secured in the sacred halls of the Kitsune Library. The Birch had grown old since it had been planted, and when the storm claimed it, it was reborn as three containers, each carrying a carving of the pond that it had stood over. I do not know who holds the other two or their tales, but when this was given to Kitsune Tamako by her father, it did accompany her till the day the fortunes called her. She was aiding the wounded of the many battles that came when the traitors to the empire opened the scrolls that should not have. When it came back to me, only a pair of her scrolls had remained.\"\n\nTurning the lid, the cylindrical box came apart and revealed several rolls of paper with decorative brocade, but even without looking the young kitsune identified two of them with her fingertips, placing it between the two shugenja on the floor. One of greenish tint and one of pale blue. \"The Prayer to the kami of water is widely known, yet it knits the wounds of those that have fallen. But it may be moot if not accompanied by a prayer to purge the poisons from their body.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Hm.\" The mature shugenja chuckled as the story was recited. \"Forgive me, I laugh not at the hardship of the Kitsune; more at the fact that I've heard a similar tale about the Tsuruchi, and many other minor clans. It seems the Lion often breeds them into existence.\" Mai silenced herself and allowed the young woman to finish her tale. \n\nAll in all, an interesting piece of history that Mai had heard pieces of, but now had a much clearer knowledge of. \n\nThe ambassador _did_ pick up on a little tidbit, all the same. This Kitsune wasn't born a Kitsune. Interesting. There were some that held those adopted in a lesser regard in the empire, seeing it as not the same as being pureblood. That was often the complaint of those that were weaker than the adopted members, looking for a weakpoint to try and make a play, one way or another. But, Mai wasn't one of those people. Her own circumstances were difficult, and she wouldn't mock someone for not coming up the best of ways. \n\nAs the scrolls were presented, Mai took sober notice of them and their significance. \"Path to Inner Peace... Truly, a simple prayer, but one that has saved many lives since the kami first told us to pray to them. I know it well; my daughter can recite it by heart, she prays it so often. Ah, to explain, she runs a clinic in the city, aiding the weak and penniless. She's quite fond of putting shugenja to work, so be careful if you every go to the Jeweled Flower, hm!\n\n\"Speaking of occupations and tasks,\" Mai segwayed, \"There is the task of assigning _you_ with a task in the city. Naturally, you're expected to do as ordered, as long as honor is aligned and it does not go against the kami, but I at least like to humor those that come here, see what they might wish to do. \n\n\"For example, we have been working hard to establish a stranglehold on the riverbanks. Control the shipping, the storing, and the storefronts themselves, at least enough to be necessary to whomever controls the city by next spring. Thus, our merchants and our magistrate have been working hard to make sure this goes on swimmingly. We also have samurai that tend to our pleasure ship, to make sure it doesn't turn into something _too_ perverse. \n\n\"So, I would ask you, Kitsune-san, what would you like to do? Where do your strengths align?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"It must be one of the most recited prayers in the empire, for as simple it is, as much it is needed on all days and occasions.\" Kitsune Meiko's words rang in the room as she commented more about the prayer itself than the fact that knowing it might recruit her to assist the ambassador's daughter at some day.\n\n\"What I would like to do? Moshi Mai-sama, I am wholly unprepared to answer such a question. I mean, I have hardly considered such. My mother's aunt did insist that I take this position, and she did suggest strongly that I should contact a Nakodo while I am here. I know, that I should honor her request for my late parent's honor.\"\n\nInhaling as she reached for the cup of tea, the young shugenja sighs a moment, her face slipping just a tad. As she takes a sip of the cup, she gathered herself, slowly lowering it back to rest on the little tray it was brought in.\n\n\"I do like to tell stories and sing, so if there is a chance to do so, I would love to help in amusing your guests during meetings. As for assisting our merchants and magistrates... I can't assist them with the blade, but maybe the magistrates might like my assistance in understanding what happened in a place? I know a prayer to that effect that is rarely spoken outside of the Kitsune Mori.\"\n\nTaking a few deep breathes, she then nods again. \"I am willing to learn whatever needs to be learned to assist you and your embassy, Lady Moshi.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"A Nakodo, hm?\" Mai crossed her arms, and pondered the statement. \"Well, I was wed around your age, so I suppose that makes sense.\" She could certainly use a nice pleasant woman like Meiko to cement some marital alliances. Duty trumped love, after all. Though, she should really get all the bachelors and bachelorettes together and discuss such a matter. \"I have heard about a matchmaker that has been advertising her services in the city. She's a Crab, so surely she's looking for more bodies for the wall, if you understand me. \n\n\"But, in the meantime, we can't just have you lounging about waiting to be wed like some pillow book, right?\" She took note that the young shugenja was fond of singing and storytelling, and liked to entertain. She immediately ruled out Tomodachi Maru. Not for this sweet innocent girl. \n\nSo, after some thought, Mai came to a conclusion that should do well for the Clan. \"Many of our shugenja -myself included- are pulling double-duty. I wear many hats, as does Moshi Kana. We could certainly use a dedicated shugenja to provide wards and blessings where they can, all in the name of good tidings from the Mantis Clan. I hardly doubt any shrine would turn you away, and if your song is as enchanting as I've heard, you could definitely win over people.\n\n\"Now, I won't lie: this city is dangerous. There are gangs in the streets that will even kill samurai. So, you would do well to have a yojimbo. Unless you protest, I'll look into appointing a proper one to you. Until then, I could have one of my ronin in my employ escort you when needed.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "An eyebrow rises a moment, but then the young Shugenja nods in return. \"I will inquire with this nakodo, asking her for the services. But as my closest family has departed to the realms beyond, and letters travel a long time, may I ask you, as my superior, to speak on behalf of the Clan mantis and this embassy in the arrangements?\"\n\nBowing at the suggestion of assisting in the temple district, her fingertips touch the ground a little. \"I will pull my weight, Moshi-sama. This isn't a palace of the Crane, where such pillow books are written and consumed. I can most certainly assist with purifying the waters in the shrines and singing the blessings for the amusement of the kami and fortunes. And if our Bushi fall ill, I will of course do my part in nursing them. Nothing might be easier, and as time comes, I will do my best to broaden the breadth of my duties.\"\n\nAs the word comes about needing a Yojimbo, a little shudder runs over the young woman's body. \"Such dangerous a town it is, that they would dare to assault samurai and even shugenja? I guess such might explain why even the crab didn't want to keep the town or so I believe was mentioned to me once.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Look in, but do not sign up for her services without seeing me first,\" Mai warned. \"As I said, there's a good chance she's more worried about gaining bodies for the Crab than true love or unbiased matchmaking. As I understand your familial situation, I will do the honor of looking over your best interests in that regard. Someone needs to watch out for you poor young children, after all.\" The older shugenja's jab was lighthearted, and the smile made it clear she was jesting at the latter end, but was adamant about representing the girl. \"Rest assured, you won't be marrying some big smelly Hida unless I say so.\" \n\nMai had to say, she liked this girl. Very polite, a little too innocent for her tastes, but overall a nice young lady. She reminded her of some of her fellow Moshi, who often fell into two camps: Rambunctious and wild, or traditional and maidenly. \n\nWhen Meiko accepted her tasks, Mai clapped her hands together once. \"Good answer, Kitsune-san! I think you will excel in that regard. I have no doubt about any shugenja in the Mantis Clan, so merely uphold our promise to the Kami and you will do just fine.\n\n\"As for the violence... Well, things have been rather... Well, _violent.\"_ Mai leaned back a little, sighing deeply. \"Not but a few days upon my arrival I got into an altercation with a gang of thieves and distasteful ronin. _My_ ronin was assaulted on a bridge along with a Crane samurai, a blind woman at that, and a months later both that crane woman and another Kakita were found dead. There is much in the ways of violence in the city. Myself and Kana-san, we were blessed with the skill of martial arts to help protect ourselves. I don't believe that to be true for you, dear Kitsune-san. So, yes, I will assign a yojimbo to you. In the meantime, you may call on Chiyoko-san, my yojimbo, for escorts and other tasks when necessary.\" \n\nMai sat back up straight, and finished her cup of tea. \"Now then, Kitsune-san, that is all I have for you. You're dismissed, unless there is something else you wish to ask.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Bowing deeply again, Kitsune Meiko reached to gather the two scrolls she had presented earlier, but did not yet tuck them away. First, she did acknowledge the other order given to her, even if it was a lighthearted jab together with it. \"Hai. I will direct the Nakodo to consult with you in all such manners, and instruct her that you talk on behalf of the clan and family, Mochi-sama.\"\n\nStaying in position a heartbeat or two, she straightened her back as the topic came back to violence, and she nodded sternly. \"When anything happenes, I will not wait to inform you, and not take hold of your yojimbo lightly. I hope that in return, I will get informed should I be needed to mend the wounded of our clan.\" There was a tiny hint of steel in the voice, not the resolve of a warrior, but someone that had witnessed her share of death already, and who would be willing to stem against the tide, even if she still had to learn how to handle a weapon.\n\n\"I have nothing else to plead for, Ambassador Moshi Mai-sama, Captain of the Shibamura, Daughter of Amaterasu and Fairest widow in all of Ryoko Owari Toshi.\" Bowing again, the two scrolls returned to their place in the container before the young Shugenja emptied her cup, slipping into Seiza and bowing a last time before she stood up. She did her utmost not to face her back to the Ambassador, before she knelt back at the door, pushing it open with the one hand before swapping to the other, shuffling through and then pushing it back closed behind her.\n\nWith a sigh, she reached for a furoshiki, wiping it over her face as some tension slipped off her. \"And I totally forgot to ask where my rooms would be... I... Will have to ask one of the maids.\" She more muttered to herself, before setting out to search for one of those - so her few belongings could be brought there.\n\n||"
}
] | 467 | 5,322 |
223.741935 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Dragon and Wasp made an odd pair as they waited at the Embassy to speak with Ambassador Moshi Mai. The Mirumoto having taken shelter beneath one of the shady courtyard trees as the northern Samurai tried their best not to melt in the rising Ryoko Owari Toshi sun. The heat of summer laying heavy over the city in a manner that was likely pleasantly cool to the tropical Mantis, but left Katsumi struggling to remain composed.*\n\n*The Magistrate only rousing from her contemplative heat induced drowsiness like a lizard upon a warm rock at the sight of a familiar Magistrate.* \"Ah Magistrate Moshi-san,\" *She calls out offering a bow in greeting as she gestures to Kishi at her side.*\n\n\"This is Magistrate Tsuruchi Kishi-san of the Tsuruchi,\" *The Mirumoto introduced the half-gaijin samurai who could not have been more diametric opposed to the petite Dragon then if the Lying Darkness had seen fit to rip up her shadow and give it form. Though it seemed the Dragon had finally managed to track down the particular Wasp they had been looking for.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was moving around as quickly as she could manage, carrying a few different scrolls of varying sized in her arms. Her bald head shone with sweat, indicating she had been having quite the busy day at work. She had even very nearly walked past the Dragon's magistrate. With a bit of a start, she spun around on her heel, greeting her cheerfully. \"Ah, hello, Mirumoto-san! How have you been?\" She then glanced to the man beside her, smiling. \"Ah, I see you've brought one of our own from the docks. Apologies for not being there to meet you; things have been rather busy. I-\"\n\nShe nearly dropped her scrolls.\n\n*Magistrate?!*\n\nIt wasn't that he was half-gaijin. It wasn't uncommon for Mantis to have some gaijin blood. She had known many of them, and prided herself on being okay with it! It wasn't even the rather scruffy look to the samurai. If one was going to be scandalized by the sight of a rough looking Mantis, then they'd be better off finding some desperate way to be married off to the Crane.\n\nIt was that title. Kana had received no word another magistrate was coming. She was acting magistrate for the Mantis within the city, and had been under the impression she was doing quite a fine job of it at that. Had Mai been planning to have her *Replaced*? After they had called each other sister, at that?!\n\nKana pushed such concerns out of her mind for now. Managing a tight lipped smile, she bowed to the new Mantis. \"Good day. Magistrate Moshi Kana of the Mantis clan. It is an honor to meet you, Tsuruchi-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Kishi moves closer to properly greet the new arrival, bowing respectfully. He takes note of the shock, despite her efforts to hide it. A small smile spreads across his face as he holds up a hand in assurance* \"*Traveling*, Magistrate. But yes, it is indeed a fine day and a pleasure to meet you Moshi-san. I look forward to being of assistance on the ground. Glad to see we've already established a strong foothold in the city, it's heartening to see the other families are taking a page from Tsurugi-ue's philosophy and capturing yet more scorpion holdings with great haste.\" *His smile grows a bit wider at the quip, hoping to disarm the high-strung magistrate a hair.* \n\n*Scruffy is certainly a word to use. The man clearly having spent many long weeks in the wild, what little could be done to wrestle the wild beard and hair into presentable fashion was an admirable attempt, but certainly in needing of a proper seeing to. From both his garb and his title, its fairly clear he is a more... Tip of the spear magistrate than one that spends a great deal of time in a leadership or administrative role. Clothing cut short and practical, with tailoring more suited for a sake hall brawl than a session at court. Not making mention of the departures from the traditional rokugani style in as many places as he can teeter on the knifes edge of acceptability with.* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Indeed Moshi-san though forgive me for wandering the docks in your absence. Had your schedule allowed am certain you would have caught fresh off the boat long before myself,\" *The Mirumoto quips with a warm smile as she glances towards the scrolls weighing down the other Magistrate's arms as the Moshi fumbles with them in her surprise. Katsumi's smile fading just a tad to give way to worry as the woman stands taking a step forward.* \n\n\"You seem to have your hands full Moshi-san. Would you like some assistance? We're currently awaiting to speak with Ambassador Moshi Mai-sama,\" *She explains as the woman is forced to quickly covers her surprised laugh at the comment at the Scorpion Clan's expense with a cough and the cover of her sleeve.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh! Traveling,\" She noted, smiling warmly. She instantly seemed rather relieved, but acted as though that is how she had always been. \"As for that status of our efforts in the city, this is something we will certainly have the chance to discuss when we have a chance to meet and discuss duties in the city. That said, I can say we've been building quite the name for ourselves around the docks and merchant quarter, with the koku to prove it.\" She continued, beaming with pride. \"Though as I said, there will be time for that soon enough. I trust your travels found you well?\"\n\nShe then looked to Katsumi, chuckling. \"Oh, that's nothing to apologize for! I've no intent of stalking your and conducting some shinobi operation because you were going for a walk around the docks. As for assistance, while I appreciate the offer, I certainly don't want to trouble you if you're looking for a meeting with Moshi Mai-sama! Though if I may ask, what will you be meeting with her about?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"I rather doubt your efforts could ever be so intrustive as the circumstances that lead to our first meeting Moshi-san,\" *The Mirumoto quips with a grin and a wry chuckle. Her stance evening as the fellow magistrate seemed to relax. The woman offering a nod of understanding at Kana's polite refusal. Though her gaze slid towards Kishi when the woman inquired in regards to their business.*\n\n\"Do you recall when I mentioned I was looking for a Tsuruchi samurai in order to settle a betrothal contract between my family and his own?\" *She inquires before canting her head towards the man indicating the Bounty Hunter.* \"Tsuruchi Kishi-san is he who I've been waiting upon. Only recently arrived within the city.\" *The Dragon adds their smile a touch stiffer as they relay their tale.* \"We're awaiting to speak with Moshi Mai-sama in regards to adjustments that may need to be made to said contract between our clans given the circumstances of our status as Tsuruchi-san has expressed a preference to continue with the betrothal.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*The Tsuruchi laughs, though Katsumi would recognize it as decidedly different from usual, as if he's finally been embarrassed just a hair at the realization she had a city wide manhunt going for him.* \"Yes... Indeed i am the target she was hunting for. Though i was not aware this was a... Widespread search. Seems my original plans would not have ended how i imagined even if i had dodged you at the docks.\" *He says scratching the back of his neck, finding eye contact somewhat difficult for the first time in their encounters.* \n\n*Swiftly he re-directs the conversation back to something less... Uncomfortable* \"But uh, to your question Moshi-san, my travels did indeed find me well... I will be glad to discard the shadow they have left on my appearance soon with a proper visit to a bath house, and finding a proper bed to sleep in. My accommodations last night were rather spartan to be sure though they did provide a rather eventful day today.\" *He says smiling a bit more earnestly at the dragon magistrate beside him. Before his eyes light up in recolection.* \"OH. I almost forgot, my travel papers. I assume it is you moshi-san that i am to provide these to yes? Or would that be something the ambassador would see to when the time comes to meet?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh! Well in that case, I will refrain from congratulations until the matter is settled, but I'm glad the course is amenable to the both of you. I know not all marriages are such. I am glad you arrived, Tsuruchi-san. Though,\" She added with a bit of a chuckle. \"I know a few around the embassy who were wondering if this might be *Their* Chance to get married off if you didn't show up!\" She joked.\n\nKana moved to sit on a bench in the courtyard. While she insisted she didn't need help with the scrolls, she seemed quite relieved to set them down.\n\n\"Yes, please, your travel papers, Tsuruchi-san! I am sorry to hear about the accommodations, though. Might I ask the inn where you stayed? Some of our number prefer the inns to the embassy, and it would be good to caution them as to what to avoid.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Shifting her gaze to Kishi the Tsuruchi no doubt could feel the weight of the woman's eyes upon him as Katsumi offers him a small reassuring smile,* \"I only made mention that I needed to speak with you in regards to the contract,\" *She assures him,* \"I was admittedly a bit worried you might find yourself lost on the way to the Embassy.\" *The Mirumoto teases her voice wry, but not unkind.*\n\n*Though it is Katsumi's turn to flush prettily her cheeks going pink with a blush to match her hair at the mention of the Mantis clan's interest in her family's affairs. The Magistrate covering the lower half of their face as she lets out a small embarrassed cough,* \"Ah... I was not aware that there those among the Mantis interested in the details of my betrothal should the intended recipiant not arrive.\" *She murmurs ducking her head to hide her flushed face.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Kishi looks across to Katsumi, and nods in recognition, though his gaze softens slightly as she turns a shade of scarlet, glad to know he was not the only one who was out of his depth in this entanglement.* \"That is comforting knowledge to know the details of this... Situation, are not floating about the rumor mill.\" *He says with a deep sigh, letting some of the tension leave his shoulders.*\n\n*He hands his paperwork to kana after opening it. She would recognize the odd folder material as shark leather, the papers having been heavily waxed in combination to keep them protected against even the harshest of weather conditions. His travel documents are in order, along with a detailed outline signed by Tsuruchi-ue outlining him as a member of the family despite his exotic complexion, and the paperwork certifying his authority as a traveling magistrate. Despite the rather ramshackle presentation of the man himself, he has each document copied in triplicate, the third copy kept in a further wrapping of waxed cloth. It hard to say if it is proper precaution or perplexing levels of paranoia.* \n\n\"You should find everything is there and in order, as for my accommodations i uh, found a nice, uh rustic nook lets say... To rest in for the evening. I find it helps ease the transition of coming back to civilization after spending a long time on the trail.\" *He looks over to the Dragon* \"Yes, it was exactly where you think it was. But lets leave it at that.\" *He says with a chuckle*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana chuckled. \"Well, as much as we've a reputation for being pirates who know the way to every port's brothel like a hound knows the smell of meat, || Disadvantage: Crude || even if our traditions encourage us to seek it out a bit earlier than we would like, we Mantis aren't so different. We think of good standing, good wives and husbands, good families... It seems in your time here you've made quite a good impression, Mirumoto-sama!\" She grinned. \"And ah, Tsuruchi-san... As I said, it's quite the opposite. Though people have yet to know you are the one specifically. Hence my jest that some may be disappointed in your arrival.\" She paused. \"Though I suppose it's less funny now that I've explained it.\"\n\nTaking a break from the awkwardness, she nodded in approval. Fiddling with her pack, she produced a stamp, placing it in the appropriate place on the travel document. \"There! All is sorted! And a rustic... Nook...?\"\n\nKana glanced between the two, and made note of the look Kishi had given Katsumi. ||Investigate 4|| It seemed clear to her that there was something more than some poor inn stay going here, but she elected not to pursue it. For now.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"I see. My clan has always valued honor, capability, and individuality over the whispered rumors spread by our neighbors. It does not seem strange to me that our clans are complimentary in their natures,\" *The Mirumoto murmurs her cheeks still tinted pink with a smudge of rouge from her blush, but the color having faded enough now to be believed as the kiss of the sun rather then simple emotion. As Katsumi offers Kana a playful smile warming a bit to the woman's good humor.*\n\n\"The Mirumoto too place great value upon family, but our numbers are less numerous in nature. Though perhaps such was what my clan had in mind when they considered a betrothal contract between the Dragon and Mantis. Though we still have yet to work out the details as both of our families have considerations that require contemplation,\" *The Magistrate muses for while the Mantis were not the only clan known for their larger families they were less want to linger like a lion at the Dragon's door eyeing their lands like a big cat might a choice cut of meat. Though as Kishi confirms her suspicions Katsumi's brows arch in surprise.*\n\n\"It seems you prefer more *Elevated* Sleeping accomidations Tsuruchi-san,\" *Unsurprising given the man was an archer.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "\"Indeed i do. And it seems i must teach you the importance of always looking up. Never know when a gutless curr might try and get the drop on you with a Ninjato.\" *He teases the dragon* \"Many a sailor has died forgeting to check the crows nest when... Comendeering a vessel.\" *He nods to himself, as if speaking some long forgotten wisdom of the ancients, before turning to face Kana* \n\n\"Indeed Moshi san. I simply thought it prudent to teach my betrothed here the importance of situational awareness, and just how comfortable one can be sleeping atop the archway of a gatehouse. Though i must say Mirumoto-san, you should get someone to clean out all the leaves and rotten wood from up there. It would not be fitting for the embassy gate to rot away into nothing from bugs finding refuge in the refuse.\" *The regales the tale as if entirely disconnected from the events, deciding it was worth it to sate the shujenga's curiosity but hesitent to come right out and say it.* \n\n*He retreives the notebook full of papers and carefully folds its flaps back together like some strange origami, before placing it into his traveling pack.* \"Its prudent i was there to keep you safe. Who knows what might have happened if i hand't already claimed the perch as my own.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Of course. Arrangements do have to be made. That said, such things would be entirely within the jurisdiction of Moshi Mai-sama, so I'll refrain from comment on that. That said, if this is something you both desire, then I wish you both luck, and hope the betrothal can be maintained with terms agreeable to both our clans!\"\n\nShe smiled warmly, though that would quickly fade as she listened to Kishi describe exactly what the nature and purpose of his accommodations the other night were. While she did have skill with interrogation, she had intended to leave it where it lay. Now, however, she was being presented with exactly what had happened. There was no plausible deniability now, and no overlooking the matter.\n\n\"Tsuruchi-san,\" She began, her jovial tone from before giving way to something far more serious. \"I apologize for the inconvenience, but I should like to speak with you in my office. Privately.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Ah yes the Scorpion clan were ever so kind in regards to my clans accommodations,\" *The Mirumoto says in that crisp polite tone of voice that implies the Scorpion were anything but as the woman said.* \"Exceedinly helpful those Scorpion,\" *The Dragon mutters with the resigned patience of a monk for all she was used to dealing with odd antics.* \n\n\"I shall make a note to have a heimin see to the archway in addition to the other repairs, but as the gate lays upon the street rather then our clan grounds I will need to speak with the city,\" *Katsumi assures the Tsuruchi allowing the man some plausibility in his upcoming conversation though Kana was in the rights to at least scold the man. The woman restraining a grimace of sympathy having been chided more then once my her own superiors in the earlier days of her career, but the ways of a traveling magistrate and a clan magistrate differed often.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Kishi nods his head.* \"Absolutely Moshi-san, it is of no inconvenience, we have much to discuss indeed. I will find your office for a conversation after we have finished our business with Moshi Mai-Snepai.\" \n\n*She can see fairly clearly the man is well aware of what she intended. And from the resigned acceptance behind his eyes, that this is likely far from his first \"Private conversation\" In relation to oversharing what was likely best left unspoken, or never having been done in the first place. Already kicking himself for never learning his lesson.* ||Disadvantage: Overly Casual || *Already off to a good start with a set of fresh faces. But perhaps its best to give an honest impression rather than a façade, despite what traditional wisdom would dictate.* \n\n*He looks over to the dragon and nods repeatedly, both in recognition and in thanks.* \"Yes. I suppose not being on clan territory would complicate repair orders. I imagine our fine hosts here in the city would be more than honored to help take care of such a shared space.\" *He remarks contemplating if repeating the words \"Not clan territory\" Or \"Shared space\" One more time would be laying it on a bit thick, deciding against it.*\n\n*From the corner of his mouth comes an imperceptible curl of recognition that rapidly fades lest it be noticed by Kana. A mental note forming in the back of his head that perhaps this arrangement is even more well matched than he had thought, if she was already willing to go to play cover for a bit of mischief. A better prize than a pouch full of coin indeed.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "If Kana had any hesitance or was deterred by the comments about the zoning of the gatehouse, she gave no sign of it, walking through the embassy and sliding open a door to reveal a modest office. Shelves were nearly filled to bursting with various scrolls, as well as an occasional little wooden or ceramic figurine of an animal or other creature. They were placed in a way they had very little danger of falling off.\n\nKana moved to sit behind the desk, gesturing for Kishi to take a seat across from her. While she did not appear visibly angry, it was plain to see she was not exactly in the best of spirits.\n\n\"So, I am to presume that by the talk over the precise line on which the gatehouse sits, you understand why I saw it prudent to speak with you.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Dragon would remain seated awaiting for the audience with the Ambassador unless Kana indicted she would like the woman to join them. The Mirumoto offering Kishi the slightest incline of her head and sympathy. The Rokugani unspoken blessing of 'may the fortunes favor you.' As Clan Magistrate returned to trying not to melt even in the shade of the trees.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Kishi follows silently and sits, adjusting his daisho so it does not wrap on the floor when he does so, with an appropriately worried look on his face.* \"Yes. I understand. Though i have excuses and explanations, they matter little in the face of the action were It to have not been the case that i was still outside the lands of the dragon. I assure you i am aware of the gravity of such trespass had it occurred.\"\n\n*He lowered his head in an apologetic bow, keeping it lowered as he speaks.* \"Though the details are yet to reach my ears, i am capable of deducing the balance at play within this city, and I have no intention of causing a shift in that balance in any direction other than our favor.\" *He remains staring at the floor until indicated in some capacity to rise.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Tsuruchi-san, I am not angry, but that will change very quickly if you continue to insult my intelligence. I have been in the city long enough to know a gatehouse is part of an embassy, and the denial by you *And* The Dragon magistrate reflects poorly on you both.\"\n\nKana let her words hang for a moment, as she considered what to make of Katsumi's words in all this.\n\n\"Might I ask what precisely your intention was here, sneaking into their embassy grounds instead of reporting here on your arrival?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Well. It was certainly worth a try.* \n\n*He sighs, and she can tell its at himself.* \"I had... Too much sake during a rather impassioned discussion between Katsumi and myself, and a mixture of drink, failing to be master of my emotions and letting them be master of me, and an Ernest desire to participate in one final night to make the transition to my lengthy stay in your charge here in the city as i described in our conversation... Allowed a desire to prove wrong a statement i should have disregarded to get the better of me. Letting myself be convinced i wasn't intruding onto another clans grounds but simply being on the periphery.\" \n\n*The tsuruchi speaks with a remorseful tone, almost exasperated at his own stupidity.* \"I had not meant to insult your intelligence, for that i humbly apologize. I hope that the nature of my intentions, foolish as they were, being one of...\" \n\n*He trails off, realizing just how monumentally moronic this is now that he has to say it out loud*\n\n\"Courtship... Not malice... Has been portrayed adequately... It would appear my sense of proper conduct had slipped to a degree uncharacteristic even for me in my long absence from the strictures of civilization.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana, at the beginning, looked aggravated. Apparently the pair hadn't been as initially set on betrothal as had been presented, or such a gesture would be entirely unnecessary.\n\nYet...\n\nThere was something about the desire to reach for something, despite protocol and the usual rules around marriage that spoke to her. Almost as though she were in a situation where she could relate to such longing... Even find it admirable.\n\n\"...You have portrayed it adequately. I need no further details on how you convinced Mirumoto-san. My well wishes remain despite all this. However, I will caution you that while you might be looking forward to your marriage, it is not set in stone, and you are still a Mantis, not yet a Dragon.\" She offered him a look of genuine concern now, rather than annoyance. \"This is a city where even a seemingly statement can be twisted and used to make you some grand villain. If you had been seen, no matter by who, this would reflect on our clan, our standing in the city, and perhaps even so far as your family's agreement to be bounty hunters for the Empire. Exercise caution, and do not trust easily. Especially when they do not wear our clan's mon,\" She spoke, adding just enough emphasis at the end for him to catch her meaning.\n\nKana smiled weakly as she rose. \"I will have to speak with Moshi Mai-sama regarding this, as she does need to be aware. I will tell her, though, that we have spoken and that you have been admonished. Otherwise, this conversation did not happen. Okay?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*He nods, and rises.* \"I understand.\" *Everybone in his body* ***Screaming*** *To quip \"What conversation?\" As he speaks, though he crushes that down into the depths of his soul, though he does pause as he rises, and sits back down prostrate once again.* \n\n\"Though i heed the meaning of your words, if i may be so bold, i would request that...\" *He sighs* \"I would request, knowing i am certainly beyond my rights to do so, that you be... Gentle... When describing Mirumoto-san's comments on this matter, or abstain from mentioning them at all. I do not wish them to impact the negotiations that are yet to come as she was simply paying me a kindness that i do not wish to be responded to as a failing or weakness. She is not to blame for my actions.\" \n\n*He pauses, waiting for the response to what he can only imagine to be further digging himself into a hole with ever greater speed.* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana sighed, the smile dropping from her face. It did indeed seem that Kishi was over the moon for the magistrate, and Kana did want to be sympathetic as she could. She was a romantic at heart, and had quite the collection of pillow books to prove it.\n\nYet love did not need to mean the abandonment of reason.\n\n\"Tsuruchi-san, am I correct in assuming you have only known Mirumoto-san for one day?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*The Magistrate sighs as well.* \n\n\"2 days. Technically, but your point stands and i understand the logic resting behind it. I can certainly imagine the image of my thoughts in your mind, but i must clarify my position lest you think even less of me.\" \n\n\"I am an Aging, Half Gaijin, who in the 10 years since this arrangement was set in motion has had very little alternatives to a, shall we say highly disagreeable betrothal. The Kami have decided in their way to bless me with a woman who by all appearances and assessment seems unbothered by those facts, or my... Admittedly acquired taste of a personality, to a degree that she would see the contract broken. She herself possesses a temperament and visage, i find more than amicable, even going so far as to risk her own neck in favor of mine in this debacle. I may be a fool in many, many things Moshi-san, but judging character is not one of them. Judging that character was in no small part why i delayed announcing my arrival to You and Moshi Mai-senpai, and i believe she would be a candidate for the finest of scorpion teachings if what i have witnessed is an act in its entirety.\"\n\n*He allows himself the sin of rubbing his face to sate the stress even in his prostrated pose. Pausing to carefully choose his next words.* \n\n\"If i may be blunt, the fortunes are unlikely to give me the opportunity to perform this service to our clan, and my families, ever again. Even less likely to do so in a way that has any chance of leading to a blissful life as my sunset years approach with ever greater haste with each passing day.\" \n\n\"I do not gamble with cards or dice, with sailing through a howling storm, or on the field of battle. But in this, i find the odds in my favor, and the prize worth the risk.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Perhaps I should clarify. I do not think Mirumoto-sama is a villain. The other day, she came to my aid and conducted herself honorably when a Phoenix samurai accosted me without provocation. She offered to act as a witness to their ambassador as well. She also told an obvious lie to me in an official capacity today. My point is twofold; one should not assume she is naive to the point she is not responsible for her own actions, and two, do not assume you know all of someone in such a short time.\"\n\nKana's expression softened somewhat. \"I do understand to some extent... I've not lived your years, I've not had your background, and I know such circumstances make the prospect of a betrothal to someone beautiful all the more tempting. However...\"\n\nKana hesitated. She was not sure about whether she should say what was on her mind. There were risks in doing so, certainly. Yet this man had opened himself up to her...\n\n\"Let me just say I too have made assumptions of a woman, assumptions that were all the easier to make because of something I believed made me less desirable.\" She ran her fingers over the rather noticeable scar on her cheek. \"Remember, as well she is not facing the same pressures you are. She need not be a villain; only someone putting her clan first.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*He straightens to face her as she speaks her final words, nodding as she traces the scar on her face* \"I appreciate your Candor, Moshi-sama. And the greater context of some details given. I cannot say i have shared in your specific experiences, but you have my sympathies in having some parts of your soul seen impolite to discuss openly. You speak with wisdom, and if i have any to share from my years as you put it, it is that years alone do not determine the quality of words spoken or the validity of their meaning. I shall take what you have said into consideration in my movements through this city, and in the hopefully joyous events yet to transpire in my personal life. Hopes which your commentary on Mirumoto-sama's previous conduct certainly kindle.\"\n\n*His eyes soften some, as he allows the faintest of smiles to reach across his features* \"I do hope you are right that she is someone who puts her clan first. Seeing as, Kami willing, she will be joining the mantis any day now.\" *The man unwilling to keep his playful nature caged for too long, in hopes of brining Kana back from a painful recollection of wounds still healing.* \"You will have to tell me the tale of that encounter with the phoenix some day, i can only imagine how outmatched they found themselves against the both of you.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah? You seem rather confident of that outcome,\" She spoke, a bit surprised at the Tsuruchi's claim. \"That said, your confidence is indeed a very good sign. That will certainly be good to relate to Moshi Mai-sama!\"\n\n*Perhaps I've underestimated him...*\n\nAs the topic came back to the Phoenix samurai, Kana failed to suppress a chuckle. \"Oh, that is quite the story indeed!\" She spoke, opening the door to the office once more. \"Imagine the worst shinobi possible, and you'll get an idea...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*The Tsuruchi stands, and follows her to the door, making his way out and wandering back to the entrance where Katsumi is waiting.* \"You had my curiosity Moshi-sama, but now you have my attention. Perhaps you can both regale me of this tale of victory while we wait for Moshi Mai-senpai to see us.\" *He says with a laugh* \"If she has not melted into a puddle in the heat already.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Dragon in question looks positively miserable even in the shade as she fans herself. The woman's long red hair having been pulled back into a braid to try to pull the strands away from sticking to her sweat laden skin. Her cheeks and the bridge of her nose flush with heat and the beginnings of a light burn. The Magistrates gaze focused intently upon her own light yukata as if contemplating the veracity of the tattooed style of her own people and the functionality of clothing in this damnable swelter.*\n\n\"Ah Moshi-san, Tsuruchi-san,\" *She greets with as much enthusiasm as she can muster when all she wants to do is sprout gills and live in a pond till reasonable weather decides to once more rear it's head.*\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana laughed, leading the way back to the courtyard. \"Perhaps! Though I am certain Mirumoto-sama by this point is tired of hearing of the story. She was right there, after all. I promise, though, that this is not a story that will go untold.\"\n\nKana looked over to Katsumi, offering a sympathetic look. \"I see you are managing the approach of summer, Mirumoto-san. If it helps, it's an adjustment quite a few people have difficulty with.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 219 | 6,936 |
269 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai was tired. So many things going on, and so little time. Getting _Tomodachi Mura_ ready for business, sending the magistrate out to make collections, preparing for a dangerous trip out to fight river bandits, not to mention spending some quality time with her daughter... It was a lot. \n\nThus, while she'd be more inclined to drink with her crew and make merry, she decided to do the opposite, and go to enjoy some simple meditation on her lonesome, in her chambers in the embassy. \n\nChiyoko, ever dutiful, was waiting outside her doors, though she seemed to be just as tired, or even more so by the way she teetered. \"Sleepy, cyclops?\" \n\n\"No, Moshi-sama,\" The ronin yawned. \"Well... Yes, more so than usual. I haven't felt all that good, but I think it's just something I ate-\"\n\n\"Yes, I don't care, actually. If I catch you sleeping like that again, I'll make sure to wake you up with a swift kick in the face.\" \n\n\"Can you kick that high, Moshi-sama? Most impressive, I feared your _weight_ would make that difficult.\" \n\n\"Peh. Still awake enough to talk shit, I see.\" Mai hiked a thumb behind her. \"Dismissed, you goat-eating dunce. Get some rest. If you still feel horrid, see Fujiko in the morning. I don't need my yojimbo keeling over.\" \n\nChiyoko bowed, and left, yawning loudly as she rounded the corner. \n\n\"Hmph. I like that little bitch. Too bad she's a ronin.\" Mai chuckled to herself, and slid open the door to her chambers, stepping in with not a worry in the world. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Infiltrating the Mantis Embassy hadn't been too hard for the Scorpion. She'd learned that people tended to expect trouble from their own ilk. Doji worried about Scorpion sneaking in, Lion worried about Unicorn raids, and Mantis worried about other rapscallions. When you approached a clan from their cultural blind spot things were easier. \n\nShe'd ghosted in over the rooftops, slinking along the tiles like a cat, laying low and crawling gently along. She'd left her swords at home. This was a social visit after all, more of a test of her own skills. And it wouldn't do to antagonize the shugenja too much. And if somehow she was caught she didn't want to commit seppuku over a perceived assassination attempt. This was for fun, not honor. Besides, what good would a sword do against a shugenja?\n\nEveryone imagined that the art of stealth was in hopping over rooftops like a frog, moving from corner to corner of the house with all the drama of a kabuki villain. Not so. There was only one real talent anyone needed to get anywhere without being seen, and that was *Patience*. When Kaori was having fun she was very patient indeed. She enjoyed the voyeristic experience. All these people had no idea what was hovering over their heads, crawling through the shrubbery, sitting in a basket. It was her delight. \n\nShe'd been in the shugenja's quarters now for nearly an hour. The first thing she'd done was remove and dust off the simple garments she'd worn for her trip. Not wishing to be naked and give the wrong impression she'd borrowed the reddest garment from Mai's quarters. It hung loose on her, she was far shorter than the Mantis, but she made no effort to keep it closed. Rather, she was lounging on the windowsill like a spoiled cat, not caring if any passing guards or gardeners spotted her, listening to the strange banter between shugenja and ronin. \n\nWhen Mai entered Kaori didn't say anything, just waved her fingers with a cheeky smile. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "It took some time before Mai noticed Bayushi Kaori. Tired as she was, she had stepped in and right over to her small collection of liquor, settling on some standard sake to help ease the nerves and relax the body. She hummed to herself as she poured a tea cup's worth, and got ready to step out of her robe and relax in imbibement and meditation. \n\nIt was then that she spotted the woman in her clothing. She didn't recognize her at first, thus she fumbled her cup, it falling with a dull thud onto the rug there. Mai quickly went into a stance, her hands bursting into flame...\n\n\"...Bayushi Kaori?\" \n\nMai furrowed her brow as she glared at the Scorpion, not quite relaxing. \"What, did Ikoma-san decide he wanted to end our alliance? If so, you'd better... Wait...\" Mai looked at the look on the girl's face, _and_ her robe! \"What exactly are you doing in _my_ suite in _my_ clothes? If this is some sort of midnight call, you're not really making a case for anything but a thrashing!\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion had tensed, ready to roll out of the window ahead of the fire kami, but burst out laughing as Mai's alarm turned to outrage. \"Moshi-sama, you have nothing to fear from me this night. Nor would I be much inclined to heed the words of Ikoma-sama. Harming a shugenja of the Mantis would hardly be wise now that our clans are so nobly joined.\" \n\nShe stretched lazily, still perched on the windowsill. \"I came here because I reasoned that I would find you here sooner or later. And your garments are just so very comfortable. Mantis hospitality is legendary, I was certain you would not mind.\" \n\nHer black eyes flicked down to the dropped cup. \"Perhaps you could pour another drink? And one for your guest as well?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"...\" Mai didn't like being laughed at, nor did she like unexpected visitors. But, she _did_ like boldness. And this little Scorpion bitch was very, _very_ bold. \n\nThe shugenja shook her hands as if they were wet, and the flames died out with nary a sign but a single wisp rolling about and eventually out one of the windows. \"Well, you found me, Bayushi-san.\" Taking a second, she picked the cup up off the ground, and took down the swig that was still left in the bottom. \"Get up off the window, if you're a guest,\" She somewhat ordered, \"And I'll fetch you something. But, we'll drink something special, since this is such a special occasion.\" \n\nSensing no danger, the shugenja turned her back on Kaori, and poured spiced wine for the both of them. It was foreign, and she knew well from what Chiyoko reported of how much Kaori despised all things Gaijin. Might as well tease her a bit. \n\n\"So, you're not here for Ikoma-san,\" Mai deduced, \"And you're not here to kill me in general -which you'll have to forgive me for assuming; a Scorpion at night in a secluded room usually spells disaster- so... What is this? Surely you're not here for gossip or a round of shogi.\" Mai placed two glasses on the table, a rare material in these parts. \"Sit, and drink.\" Mai took a sip herself. \"It's safe enough. Been drinking this since I was young lady.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Rising gracefully the little Scorpion bitch came to settle down at the table. She lifted the glass and studied it curiously. There had been some exhibited at the castle, but she'd never had a chance to handle it personally. What a strange thing. She couldn't imagine it would be very useful, being so heavy and brittle, but for novelties like cups and decorations it could be artistically pleasing. \n\n\"In that way we are alike,\" She said, sipping the strange liquor. She found herself in two minds about it. She liked the spicy flavors, the strong and wide range to enjoy, but she did not like the change from her usual rice wine. \"I too started enjoying refreshments at a young age. Just one cup with dinner at first. But it was part of our training too. And that I believe is something the Mantis and the Scorpion have in common.\" \n\nShe looked up at her hostess from under sooty lashes. \"We train for practical matters and the real world. As much as we revere the Celestial Order we know that people are not always content to remain defined.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai raised an eyebrow at the 'common' comment, but found herself in agreement, somewhat. Indeed, the Mantis were inclined to what was considered 'Low-work:' Sailing, fishing, rigging ships and working the nets; even farming, where the land could yield, though only in desperation. \n\n\"I can respect that,\" She said, \"As I have learned plenty of skills most Samurai wouldn't bother with. When you're off at sea, you can't let a little thing like the Order compel you not to grab a rope or the rudder. That foolishness gets everyone killed. And the higher up in the Order you are, the more __responsible__ you are for your lessers.\" She spoke honestly: To her, the Order was indeed everything, but unlike some Samurai that rest on their laurels, she took her protection of lessers seriously. \n\n\"Though, that's the trouble of being of a clan not blessed by the Kami: Proving oneself is a constant, lest we fall back into the category of scoundrels and pirates.\" Mai sipped her wine, and pointed her glass at her guest. \"You Scorpion are blessed to be descendant from the Kami, you know. No matter how tested your lot is, no matter how vile the actions you need to take, at least you know that Bayushi _chose_ that life for the benefit of the Emperor.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion's eyes narrowed as the shugenja described her clan's deeds as 'vile' but she didn't respond. Sipping more of the wine didn't answer her question of whether she liked the stuff or not either. But perhaps the rest of the bottle needed to be sampled first. \n\n\"My duty is to the fate my ancestors chose,\" She agreed. \"There's no freedom to it, I act for the clan, I fight for the clan, I die for the clan. You are your own clan when you embark on your ships, and the freedom to choose your destiny with each fresh breeze is not to be taken lightly. Though as you say, the responsibility is no less because one path was chosen before birth and the other chosen every day.\" \n\nShe set down the cup. \"And that is what I am here to discuss today, Moshi-sama. Our responsibility to the Celestial Order, to those born to lower station. The things we must do to keep that trust and maintain order for the good of all Rokugan.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"And may you be blessed in your endeavors, Bayushi Kaori. Take no offense in calling vile acts as they are. In my defense, you broke into my room and put my clothes on like some sort of... I don't really know.\" She noticed that it wasn't even closed. How bratty and promiscuous. \n\nMai paid close attention as Kaori explained her reason to be here. \"So, it's not my good looks and allure that brought you here? Hmph. You could have come in the morning for such talks.\" The woman set her glass down and stood up straight. \"So. What's this about the order? Wait- dont' tell me you and my cyclops are in a row again? If you keep antagonizing her, I can't be responsible for what she says. Even loyal hounds will bite if mistreated.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"You must admit though, I wear them *Magnificently*,\" The Scorpion replied, preening. \"If you insist I shall of course give them back before I depart.\" \n\nShe giggled at the last time she'd seen Chiyoko bristling up like a hound. *Exactly* Like an offended hound. \"I do not row with those less fortunate than me, that is hardly sporting,\" She pointed out. \"But if your faithful dog takes offense to my presence... Well, one cannot please everyone. My concern is not with your bodyguard. She is well trained, she will not maul me. No, it's rather with something else, something that I do not want anyone to hear me speak of.\" \n\nA hand flicked around the room. \"Here we may speak with some degree of privacy I hope?\" \n\nShe'd been through the room. Partly to kill time, partly out of genuine curiousity or voyeuristic pleasure at rifling through Mai's pockets, partly to ascertain the amount of genuine privacy one could count on, but there wasn't a lot she could do to test the acoustics without giving away her presence. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Perhaps! A little- well, _much_ too big. But, I'd be a liar if I said I didn't like what I saw.\" Mai really had to hold herself at bay, lest she keep letting her newly discovered feminine appreciation get the better of her. \"Depending on how this talk goes, you may just keep it. If it goes very well, you may just leave in the _morning.\"_ \n\nBut, to answer Kaori's question of privacy, Mai simply gazed into her glass of wine. \"There is no on in the halls, nor on the windowsill or in the adjoining rooms,\" She announced, \"Other than Chiyoko. She's folding more paper horses. So, yes, we're free to speak.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"I am not worried about your hound, she is discretion itself,\" Kaori watched the shugenja watch her, and shifted ever so slightly to test the other woman's resolve. \"Then here is my premise before the question. This city is in turmoil. The Scorpion have lost their grip and our leadership is flailing. The clans are ready to pounce. Winter Court will be a knife fight—literally—for control. You were there for the latest scene in the public forum. You, as a shugenja, have a great deal of influence on the level of commitment your clan brings to our alliance. Your actions also—unwittingly or not—played a part in the downfall of the Scorpion government here.\"\n\nShe swirled the wine in the cup. \"So here's my question. Do you, Moshi Mai, *Want* This alliance to work? If I take steps to secure the Scorpion can I count on your continued support? Or will I shore up a failing wall only to lose support elsewhere?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai let out a scoff. \"Oh? I like your boldness, trying to pass even a _little_ blame one for your leadership's massive blunder. It's cute, adorable, even.\" Mai was talking kindly enough, but her eyes were smoldering. \"See, if your late governor bothered to key me in on his asinine scheme, he may just have his head on his shoulders.\" \n\nShe took a drink and motioned Kaori to continue. The question was asked, and Mai chuckled. \"You know, you're the first Scorpion to reach out in some time, and I mean _months,_ coming here, sneaking into my chambers and going through my things, and you ask me, 'do you want this to work?' What I _want_ is __respect.__ My clan is working on big things, while yours has done... What? Lose the city, that's what.\" Mai rested her chin on her hand, a smirk on her lips. \"Well, the help on my Gaijin problem was nice as well. I'd requested aid before, but it wasn't until the alliance was in jeopardy that your Clan deemed it necessary to assist. A sign of a great ally: Helpful when in trouble. My son was like that when broke something. When he was _five._ \n\nMai was no longer smiling. \"So tell me, little girl: Am I to expect the standard fare of Scorpion aid, or will I see some actual fucking progress? Answer that, and you'll get your answer.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion was no longer smiling either. \"What deeds would you consider real progress? Must I become Speaker for my clan myself? Must I strike a decisive blow against the Unicorn, the Lion? My focus of late have been against the criminal syndicates but I would rather hunt my clan's enemies than battle a beast that grows two heads for every one I cut off.\" \n\nShe tapped her fingers on the table. \"I will put my house in order. Then we can start laying the groundwork for this winter court where we expose the Lion and the Unicorn interests to be founded in nothing more than base petty greed while this city groans without Scorpion leadership. We must work to show that *We* Are the ones who keep the order.\" \n\nBlack eyes met the shugenja's. \"How far are you willing to go to secure both your own interests and the safety of the Emerald Empire? What lines will you cross? Will you dirty your hands next to me, or will you let the Scorpion do your dirty work again? Answer me that, and I'll tell you my plan.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"You will, will you? Bold words. You're very bold, almost obnoxiously so. You're lucky you're skilled enough to back that mouth of yours half the time.\" Mai was conflicted on if she hated or adored this young brat, but all the same, someone from the Scorpion aimed to uphold their side of the alliance. \n\n\"If you're putting my devotion to the empire into question, you can leave out the window with two broken arms and a charred body.\" Mai didn't speak in her usual, bullying way. She was cold and serious. \"Trust me, I have killed and _will_ kill to maintain the Clan's proper place. I've made friends with criminals and enemies of Samurai. I'll do what needs to be done. Don't take my olive branch of cooperation to be some sort of sign of weakness or cowardice.\" \n\nMai fell silent for a moment, and drank her wine swiftly. \"Now, quit stalling. Tell me your plan.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"When you're good you're good,\" Kaori said without the slightest hint of modesty. \"And I have been blessed with many skills, few of which can be appreciated fully by my peers. My plan. Yes, my plan. Lend me your ear now, shugenja. Strategy is not within my skills, yet I think I have the inkling of a plan.\" \n\nShe grinned. \"You are of course familiar with the curse of gaijin pepper, are you not? One of my clan's spiritual duties is to keep it from polluting our shores. The kami will not bless our empire if that evil stuff is being used here. Now do not worry! I do not intend to use it myself either! I would never betray my clan's duty. But it is here in the city, wherever there are smugglers there is the pepper. You are gifted with the kami's sight, you can find it if you make an effort. Of course we must dispose of it, but why not turn it to our service first? \n\n\"Suppose that the foolish words in the street stirs up the population to some desperate deed? That their defiance of the Celestial Order inspires them to strike against our rule? They must have it, and in great quantity, so they contact the Unicorn who are known to defy Rokugani law in these matters time and again. Destabilizing this city would work well in the Unicorn's favor, in their efforts to discredit my clan's rightful claim, so they provide the pepper. The kolat move to strike against the clans, perhaps during Winter Court. The brave efforts of the Mantis discover this wicked plot in time to prevent a catastrophe. The Unicorn are shamed before winter court begins. Your clan is honored. A kolat sect is burned out of this city. A stockpile of gaijin pepper is safely disposed of without offense to the kami. Everyone wins.\" \n\nShe grinned. \"These are broad strokes I paint, but you get the idea.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai took in Kaori's plan, listening closely to scheme. Find gaijin pepper, foul stuff it is, and then make it seem as if the Unicorn supplied, stored, or otherwise allowed the pepper to reach kolat -whether they were there or not- to utterly embarrass the Unicorn. It was an interesting idea, though it reminded her more of the late governor's way of doing things. However...\n\n\"So, there are many moving parts there, Bayushi-san. I can use the sight to find it, though that will take some time. Making it seem as if the Unicorn are to blame would be trickier; most of the pepper comes from overseas. Mantis come across it far more often than the land-dwelling Unicorn do. But, that could play to the sloppiness of its delivery, hm?\" \n\nThe shugenja poured herself another glass of wine, and topped of Kaori's. \"Though, one might argue that simply stopping kolat and ridding that Empress-murdering powder would be enough of a win to cement the Scorpion as the true enforcers of the law, and the protectors of this city. These Unicorn, they are not unlike my own Clan: desperately trying to maintain that they deserve to be at the table, and they've been at it for centuries. I don't think the Unicorn would suffer another accusation well, if the scheme falls apart. \n\n\"Just food for thought from a woman that's been at it longer, that's all.\" Mai took a considerable drink of wine, and sighed. \"Well, I think I've had enough wine not to be cross at you anymore, Bayushi-san. I'll try to find this gaijin pepper for you, and we'll speak about it again. Consider that a gift for your aid with Edward.\" Glancing at the brat still in her own open robes, a chancer of an idea came to mind. \n\n\"I intend to get some rest, but the little brat still has my clothes on. Perhaps we can see how long it takes to get it off you?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"The advice is well received,\" Kaori said, sipping at her wine again and feeling the spices warm her. This stuff was an acquired taste, but she did not find it to be unpleasant now. \"And I shall certainly take it to heart. I have consulted with no one in my own clan about this as of yet, it is not my way to present problems to my leadership. I come to them with solutions, they need only provide the resources.\" \n\nHer scarred cheek tightened as her smirk broadened, her black eyes watching the shugenja's gaze wander. \"You are welcome to try to remove them if you want, Moshi-sama,\" She teased. \"But they are so very comfy! Perhaps the tongue of the Mantis is more eloquent after wine has loosened it. You are welcome to make the argument.\" \n\nShe shifted, a sensuous taunt that hinted the Scorpion was just as great a brat as the Mantis assumed. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "With business and advice given, it would look that things would shift to pleasure and desire. \"Oh, I know they're comfy. They're mine.\" The shugenja stood, and circled the table, looming over the cocky little Scorpion. \"You offering challenges, now? You really are a cheeky one. I really, _really_ like that. Only thing is...\"\n\nMai grabbed hold of the robe in one fist, and lifted it and Kaori as one. \"I don't _argue._ I *Take what I want*. Call it the pirate in me.\" She would take the Scorpion to her bed, and what would happen there was not for but the Kami to see and tell. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Sometime later the Scorpion rose. She dressed herself in the same green robe, borrowing an obi to match, bundling up her dusty garments. She was in a very good mood. \n\nA challenge had been thrown out during the session. Mai probably didn't realize the door she'd opened for the Scorpion, but the invitation to test Chiyoko more thoroughly could not be ignored. The daughter of Bayushi loved humbling arrogant ronin and she found herself looking forward to a good night. She raided Mai's cosmetics for a stick of ochre before tying the bundle to her waist and slipping out the door. \n\nThey had not been subtle. Kaori was shameless when expressing appreciation. The guards would know that their shugenja had a guest. As long as she did not carry half the estate out on her back or deviate from the route to the front door the guards would not bother her.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The many guards that patrolled the embassy watched as the woman left Moshi-sama's chambers. She would not be halted, or bothered, for that matter. Some even made sure to bow, assuming she was someone of import. The servants (some of them of Mai's pirating crew) gave her a wide berth, and politely shut the doors once the Scorpion was gone. \n\nMoshi Mai herself emerged from her chambers some time later, looking rather worn out, but with the afterglow of someone that was more than satisfied. \"That was interesting,\" She yawned, \"Though I can't say I'd say it was better than the _other_ way of pleasure.\" \n\n\"Moshi-sama.\" Junko bowed to the woman in her barely-closed robe. \"The Scorpion woman has left.\" Mai gave a nod, and asked for some tea. Junko bowed, but stuck around. \"Moshi-sama... Can I speak freely?\"\n\n\"Sure, I'm in a great mood. Go ahead.\" \n\n\"Well, Mama Mai, do you think it's wise to let that woman just sneak in here without any consequence? She might get cocky and think she can do as she pleases.\" \n\n\"Oh, Junko. It's hardly anything to worry about.\" Mai pulled her snuff box from her robe, and started to pack her pipe. \"It's better she think she can, so if she comes around to do something silly, she'll show up with false confidence. Besides, when I viewed her in the reflections, she was just putting on my clothes and was unarmed. Nothing to worry about.\" She lit her pipe, and took a long drag. \"Let the brat think she's Empress for now. At the very least, I'll have someone to play with.\" \n\nMai sent Junko off, and went back to her chambers. \"Oh! Right, Chiyoko should know that... Um... Hm. Blast, I've forgotten what that was...\"\n\n||"
}
] | 233 | 5,649 |
399.375 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai wasn't too busy for once, and got around to catching up on some pillow book reading as she lounged in the main hall of her embassy. It was rare to get a moment to just read and be lazy, and she was really taking advantage: A cold drink nearby, a snack to nibble on, and a rather racy tale of a burly Mantis pirate and his captive, a Crane maiden that wished to teach the Mantis how to love again. It was romantic, it was forbidden love, and it was also mostly debauchery. Perfecton. Though, Mai was starting to get annoyed at how closely she needed to bring the book to her eyes; damn things had been growing weaker with the decade. \n\n\"Moshi-sama?\" \n\nMai looked up from her book to see Chiyoko. \"Ah, back already from that map business, I see.\" She went back to her book, but noticed that Chiyoko didn't have the map. \"What, did you lose it on your way? Oh! Did it get lost in your _blind spot?\"_ \n\n\"Clever as ever, Moshi-sama,\" Chiyoko sighed, \"But no, I did not acquire the map. Allow me to explain...\"\n\nAfter a quick assessment of the situation, Mai nodded. \"I see. Is this Shinjo Sumire here now?\"\n\n\"Yes, I asked her to wait in the sitting room until I cleared an audience with you, Moshi-sama.\" \n\n\"Well, send her in. I want to know more.\" \n\n=============\n\nAnd so, after Sumire had waited at the Mantis Embassy sitting room for a moment, Chiyoko would return to fetch her. \"Moshi-sama will see you now,\" She informed, \"If you'll follow me.\" \n\nSumire would be taken to the main hall, where Mai was now sitting upright on her 'throne' of cushions. She was dressed less courtly, wearing her more airy and revealing Moshi robes, her tattoos on full display. Behind her hung a massive mural of Mantis warships destroying gaijin boats, and a wild-haired Storm Rider barreling across the waves on his Orochi ally. Mai set her pillow book down, and locked her eyes on Sumire. \n\n\"Shinjo Sumire-san, is it?\" She'd wait for the woman to properly introduce herself before motioning for the woman to sit on one of the cushions near the front. \"Welcome to the embassy. I am Moshi Mai, Priestess of Amaterasu, Captain of the _Shibamaru,_ and the Mantis Clan Ambassador.\" She called for one of her servants to fetch jasmine tea, and focused back on Sumire. \n\n\"So, Chiyoko-san explained to me that you aided in her task, and you found issues with the map, yes? Fill me in, I love to have all the details.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Sumire had explicitly asked for time to compile an appropriate report, and fortunately she'd found the time to do so in all of the commotion. It was a fairly quick report, but she was used to needing to do that sometimes. The report mostly listed her distinct observations of the map in a strictly logical review, generally the problems and concerns she'd noticed in the process. She had need to get all of it down as quickly as possible so that none of them were forgotten. Needing to be quick about it, the report didn't cover much about anything else, just the map itself. There were no observations of the store, the storekeeper, or even the case it had came in. That last point was disappointing, because she still wondered upon if the case was at least good for displaying something like a map. It looked like something to contain a sheet worthy of respect, which certainly could be handy. She would have to try and remember to bring that point up manually.. Or hope that the Ronin would do so for her.\n\nThe mantis embassy was an experience as well, much like her own first time in her own similar point of administration, but she was a lot more driven to remain composed about the whole issue.. Her report acting as her reminder and support walking into something pretty important. Duty helped keep her stable like that. She followed along as such until she was lead to the domain of the ambassador, keeping respectfully quiet so as to not be a distrubance until she arrived and was introduced. She bowed to her introduction, though she was inwardly a bit surprised at how the Mantis Ambassador kept themself. That too was however kept inward, reasonably easily with so much else to review in artistry around them. The book was missed in the process, her own sight wasn't good enough for it.\n\n\"I apologize for the intrusion. I've brought a report accounting for my own distinct observations in the process of inspecting the map, and can discuss the details further beyond that.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"No apologies needed,\" Mai replied, casually brushing away the comment, \"You've done me a service, I'd hardly be in a place to be upset when you come to express it.\" She held a hand out for the report, which a servant would be quick to retrieve from Sumire and then bring to Mai. She would take it in hand...\n\n...And realize that she couldn't read it _casually_ without looking like she struggled with literacy or had such bad eyes that she'd look a fool. Not good, especially in front of a new face. \"This all seems rather to the point,\" Mai replied, unsure of what it really said, \"But please, sit, and tell me about it all. I feel it rude to read the words of someone that could just speak it for themselves.\" She motioned for Sumire to sit, a nice cozy purple cushion ready to go for her to use. \n\n\"So, tell me, Shinjo-san, how bad was this forgery? Trying to sell a Mantis a fake map is disrespectful, but for fun, _how_ disrespectful would you call it? Did they at least get the name right?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "The signature of the map had certainly been one place to begin. \"Yoritomo Jiro-san might be a name to mean something to someone somehow, but the Crane would certainly not take kindly to the blatant buchering of some of their own established locations in name. A joke in bad taste few would have found worthy of laughter. Not the best interpretations of the related kanji. I might not know the forms and shapes beyond the waters well enough, but a map that is blind to the shapes of home has little chances in moving from it. The maps I know of also have more to endure in being heat-blasted, but that map seemed hardly familiar with escaping the rain we've seen over the past couple decades.. Let alone anything more straining in humidity like an extended conflict against saltwater.\"\n\nIn this, she had to ask, just to be sure. \"About that, I did hear once that it was more popular to make maps with thread, so as to not suffer how inks fail to stick properly around water. I had hoped to see such a map, but all I saw at the store was one drawn in inks that might have been rushed to dry. I was familiar with the idea because I heard it also happens on the sands for the opposite reason. Because inks dry too fast, so it is easier to draw without. Fabrics can be brittle when dry, so there were.. Strange alternatives needed instead. An actual authentic cloth map could have been very interesting to get to see, I feel your situation at sea promotes them. Am I wrong?\" She paused, in consideration, coming up with an even better question. \".. Or is that not the best question? I apologize. Yes, I think having poor representation of known realities might be one of the most disrespectful parts, especially were that to be found by one local to the area and that person were to take insult from it. Meanings of family ancestry could be upheld in such regions, it would have been a potential incident.\" Despite feeling she had answered the question first, she gave up asking her own."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai listened as Sumire spoke up, explaining the map and its apparently many forgery indicators. It was quite a bit, from a signature to the kanji to the lack of rain damage. It was all very embarrassing, the more she heard, and while she kept a smirk on her lips, she had made up her mind to punish this merchant especially harshly. Chiyoko would have to go and make another visit, for certain. \n\n\"On that, I have a touch of knowledge,\" Mai replied. \"Indeed, a threaded map is best out on the ocean. The air itself is full of salt and water at times, and when the sun is high the air gets even muggier, as we put it. But, sometimes it can't be helped; a threaded map takes more time, and sometimes you just need a quick and disposable chart. That's why a nice case is paramount. I have quite a nice collection myself, back home.\n\n\"As a matter of fact...\" \n\nMoshi Mai called upon one of her servants, who was tasked with going to the Ambassador's chambers for something. Around that time, tea arrived, which was placed on a small table that was brought out in front of Sumire. And Moshi Mai stood, and went to sit down across from the Unicorn so they could enjoy tea in a more friendly matter. Sure, she still towered over the Unicorn, but it was in theory more polite. \n\n\"Well then,\" Mai said after taking a sip of tea, \"It would seem that merchant thought she could pull a very embarrassing fast one on me. Back where my husband hailed, such a person would be keelhauled. I won't get into the details, but it's nothing to look forward to. But, this city demands a harsh, but subtle hand. But, I would like to know more about how you felt about the exchange with her. If it were you directly that she tried to fool, what would you demand for satisfaction?\" Mai sipped her cup, and looked at Sumire, clearly looking for the woman's honest answer."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She nodded when it was brought up that threaded maps were too much work, a problem she'd personally faced before. She had a bit of practice with threading.. For other reasons.. So it was an inevitable considerations at a point. She'd just found it really slow, originally expecting that might be mostly a challenge needing practice. She'd wondered if others had a place for its realization.. It might even still be true. However, threading a map was still slower, even if it might treat the weather better. It was an insightful perspective from another.\n\nThe case idea however reminded her of something. \"Oh, right. I remember seeing the case.. Which at least looked impressive. I'm no expert in something of that design, but I also can respect a case that might serve in function and presentation. There is a chance the case is at least worth keeping, it looked nice. Should probably confirm that, in case its good at making maps rot or something.. But it did look nice. If the case was all of the map's quality offered, it would be a shame to lose it. Like you said, sometimes a good case is just important too. It might be an overdone cover for a terrible book, but even so...\" She took a sample of the tea offered, cautious in case the flavour might surprise her. This.. Had happened before, and she didn't want to be rude in the surprise.\n\n\"Thank you for the tea, by the way, it is brewed nicely.\" A flat compliment, but it was not as if she was one with opinions. That could also be applied to a sense of punishment, making the new question difficult. A harsh yet subtle gesture, she was still new around here.. She also knew she didn't quite have a grasp in certain measures of culture as it might be applied.. She was even at work at a similar project which exposed how different some things might be. There was however a touch to the question that hit further, her personal satisfaction alone? Not one of duty or family, but a personal measure? She.. Then wouldn't care."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"A nice case, then?\" Mai took that to note, sipping her tea as Sumire continued to speak. \"Perhaps it's like you said; a nice cover to make the contents seem all the more better. Like makeup on a geisha.\" The ambassador set down her cup, and thought it over. She might just take the case, then. It'd be a nice bit of irony, no doubt, and besides, Mai loved adding insult to injury. \"I might just have to snag that case, Shinjo-san,\" Mai chuckled, \"Though the forgery will need to be scrapped. Or maybe I'll keep it as a joke.\" \n\nWhat wasn't a joke, however, was Mai's question on satisfaction. She waited for the answer, but received compliments on the tea instead. \"I know the tea is good,\" Mai said flatly, \"I picked it because it's good. What's more important is the question you seem to be evading.\" \n\nMai shifted her weight, and ran a finger around the rim of her teacup. \"Shinjo Sumire, you look to be much younger than I, at a glance -and if you're not, tell me your secrets to your nigh immortal beauty- but even so, allow an elder to give you some guidance. \n\n\"Whether someone slights you directly as a person or as a clansmen, your _Clan_ is being called into question. As a Mantis, there are plenty of rude things to say about my Clan. We're brazen fools, arrogant, a bunch of pirates and zealots... Now granted, most people know my reputation, and the fact that speaking to me in such a way or _treating_ me in such a way would lead to nothing good. Otherwise, these fools would think me, and worse, _my clan_ are weak.\" \n\nMai took a sip of tea, and nodded at her own words. \"So, it's important to have an idea of what you'd do in my position. I know what I'll do, and it'll be satisfactory to my Clan and my station. So again, Shinjo Sumire, if some merchant came to you with a disrespectfully farcical map of the Unicorn Lands, what would you demand for satisfaction?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Such a question was something she'd been keeping on her mind, trying to find an appropriate answer for. Of course, however, there was no reason to ponder a personal meaning to anything like this, meaning always existed in duty and other responsibilities. In fact, it reminded her of something she did recall that had also happened with the shopkeeper. \"While it did not seem to mean as much for someone not trained in etiquette properly, I recall there was a lot of discussion about the importance of their reputation. It's sensible that they have an understanding of that importance, for that embodies so much about what they did wrong. Whatever they feel is important, those are the ones they've let down in their neglect. That reputation deserves to bear fangs for such insult, though I still understand little the ways reputation is measured in responsibility within the market. It would need to be meaningful the way their duties work, so that the reality of their work can bear verdict straight into them, to impact them directly with the most pure of meaning. If they don't understand honor, then in whatever holds the most meaning to them. They had said something about how a poor reputation could ruin them and the work they did.. And so that sounds like something they would understand. Ruin their reputation so that it tarnishes their work with the reality of their own failures, so that the repercussions of such failures is easy to understand. I've.. Heard this approach is important with some trained animals who try to be difficult or immature, making sure that the terms of punishment are still within the familiarity of their lifestyles. I'm just not much of an expert.. With merchant lifestyles too. Finding what part of their process matters and then.. Make it harder to achieve.. So that they feel the weight of their own failures. That might be the most efficient, but I'm sorry I'm not familiar with the details.\" She, of course, lacked understanding in profits."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai sat in silence, letting Sumire make her statement. She wasn't sure if the girl knew she was rambling, but she didn't plan to interrupt; surely she'd find what she was looking for eventually. And that would come to pass, just as Mai thought, with a coherent musing that got to the point. \n\n\"Correct,\" Mai said, \"Reputation is what a merchant needs more than mere coin. As you may be aware, when it comes to the Celestial Order, bandits and merchants fall in the same ranking. Fore they both have an attachment to money that's most unhealthy. Now, we in more mercantile Clans -even if you don't know much about it, Shinjo-san- know that while there is no honor in money, great works can be compelled into life with it. So, with the right merchant patrons and the right deals and workings, great things can be done with honor and reputation intact. \n\n\"In that same way, foolish moves, such as giving a fake map to a Mantis Ambassador, for example? Well, that will ruin a reputation. It'll cripple that business, no doubt, and it will no longer function on its own... Hm. Ripe for the picking, to be redeemed with a strong, beautiful hand...\" \n\n\"Mam- eh, Moshi-sama.\" The servant had returned, and in his hands a scroll case. The style was simple, unadorned with nothing but a Mantis mon and a note of the year: 1111. The servant bowed and presented it to Mai, who took it with thanks. \n\n\"This is one of my own maps,\" Mai said, \"From my days of thwarting gaijin on the high seas. I'll admit, it's outdated; it doesn't have the new lines of the Mantis territories. But, I always used it for the seas themselves, which were more important to me at the time.\" She opened the map, showing the threaded design, still bone dry after two decades. Closing it back up, she held it out to Sumire. \n\n\"Consider it a gift, for your service, Shinjo-san. You'll find that this map is definitely genuine. I know this for a fact.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She really didn't grasp the coin details very well, but it seemed she was in the right consideration with reputations. She was pleasantly surprised that her answer resounded with a sense of resolution too. But surprise became an understatement when she was offered a gift as a result. A threaded map in a functionally effective scroll case, clearly designed to keep such a precious map in good condition. Especially notable being a threaded map, meaning something to be effectively preserved easily through the ages. It also demonstrated strong viability in use in understanding waterways.. Which coincided strongly with areas of work she'd been trying to improve in for a very recent project. Such a project had been challenging due to her lack of water-focused maps, to demonstrate waterflow and coastal considerations. The map could also be seen as an authentic piece to learn threading maps from, something which could in whole be very useful for her work.\n\n\"I-I'm sorry, the map.. I really can't. It is an impressive piece, certainly, but I really couldn't.\" What stood out extra hard was the utter terror she held of the map's origin, a sense of dread falling over her once she was told who had originally produced such a work of art. She was almost shaking in fear with the realization of that implication. Gained '.. From.. Gaijin on the high seals.' Her pale complexion even threatened to lose even further color, and she would wince in nostalgic fear once the ambassador's servant next word was spoken out of sight.. Even if it was little more than a breath. There was just a strong nostalgia of unspoken judgement, despite it never coming."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai was ready to say that she insisted, as was the way these things went. Offer, refuse, insist, refuse, _really_ insist, and the gift is accepted. A waste of time, but understandable etiquette some Crane developed ages ago. \n\nBut the way Sumire looked and didn't accept was very... Curious. \"Did you not just say you were curious about such a technique?\" Mai shifted her weight, and pulled open the map again. \"You know, I have to insist you take it off my hands. My husband made so many maps, I hardly need all of them. Besides, I'm stuck here in this embassy, so I won't need a sea chart for some time.\" \n\nShe presented the map again, showing the grand detail of a Mantis-made map, and the signature chop in the corner of Yoritomo Tomoru. \"You know, this map navigated us home after a very perilous trek,\" Mai stated, \"After encountering two Maraenaen vessels at once. Nothing the Fury of Osano-Wo couldn't handle, of course. I might share blood with those gaijin, but thank Lady Sun she blessed me with her light and the gift to speak to her. Ah, but sorry, I'm rambling.\" \n\nShe motioned for Sumire to accept the map. \"It's a grand honor for a Yoritomo to give someone a map from their own family's creation, you know. Please accept it.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Oh, so not quite made by foreign hands.. Just.. Made necessary because of foreign travel. This made her a lot more relaxed, knowing this. It changed so much for her. She still had some uneasiness in the special treatment and kind gesture but.. Well, wasn't this how she was supposed to behave in these situations anyway? In fact, the considerations of its true origins came in tandem nostalgia to her own training in etiquette, like one lined up to the other. \"Your husband? That is very impressive, playing a role in such a respectful process. I just can't say that I will have any opportunity in making the best of such careful tracking myself, I've not travelled by boat at all. It does sound like there is a lot of historical relevance in this map too, the stories you could tell that I know nothing about. I wouldn't be deserving of such a gift.\"\n\nShe was a lot less resistant of the idea, generally expecting she wouldn't be refusing the map again, but there were some key things that did leave her inspired in this exchange.. And not just the honesty in claiming she was unsure of her worth to such a gift. It did sound like she was being given something that had something of its own story, and she could not do its possession justice without actually paying respect to the story that brought such a map so far. This is why her tone put special emphasis on the matters of stories to tell that she knew nothing about. If she was going to claim such a gift, she would have to give the Mantis room to shine in the light of accomplishments that brought such a map into being. It would only be fair and proper."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Young lady.\" \n\nMoshi Mai set the map down, and decided to bestow a little wisdom. \"Gifts are not earned. _Rewards_ are. We Samurai give gifts as part of our etiquette game that we must play, but even peasants and hinin give each other gifts. I could give you nothing, and I would be well within my right; my prestige and the glory of my endorsement is enough. But, I wished to do something extra. The Unicorn Clan has been very kind to the Mantis, even when we stood opposed. That too is a gift. A gift with ulterior motives, perhaps, but truly only fools look gift horses in the mouth, as it's said.\" \n\nThe ambassador slid the map and case closer to Sumire. \"You may never sail the seas, but you might learn a thing or two from this chart. You'll see how we Mantis viewed the rest of Rokugan. How we put more care into rivers and lakes than lands and mountains. A different perspective, you see.\" \n\nMai hoped that her little lesson rang true in the young woman, as the gift was genuinely one with no strings attached. \"So, I _insist._ Take this map off my hands, Shinjo-san.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She knew she would have to accept now, already nodding, but she did catch some unresolved confusion. \"If you insist so much, I shall accept. I know this is no reward, for I have done nothing worthy of one. Doing one's duty is only to be expected, it is nothing special. A gift however is an object of history, something with meaning and honor in its craft. Such a map certainly is an object deserving of substantial respect for its creation, but I remain ignorant to the details. I worry my ignorance would lead to neglect in its proper respect, knowing so little about the story that it has to share. It's.. Reputation. Were anyone to ask, I could speak nothing of the glory behind its design. How can one be worthy of a gift that one can't properly honor? So I ask you, might you share light of the tale behind such a gift, so that I might rectify this insufficiency by some possible margin?\" To her, she was already at a loss in this simply because she won't be sailing the seas with it, but to her it was also negligent to not know the history that carried it over the sea already.\n\nA map was a documented perspective, but without the proper study of the seas, it was a perspective she held insufficient understanding in. She wasn't worried about matters of strings attached here, but perspectives were something of some notable importance. It had came up as a repeat lesson for her in the city several times already."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai sense a great amount of apprehension in this girl. She seemed to be one to worry about a lot of things at once. A worry wort, she heard it called. But, it was just her opinion, and hardly one worth sharing as an insult. \n\n\"The story of this map is the story of Yoritomo Tomoru, my late husband.\" She took her pipe from her sleeve, and prepared it to smoke as she recollected the tale. \n\n\"We were wed as a means of alliance. It was already becoming a trend of sorts to marry Moshi and Yoritomo together, though I myself was definitely a more pitiful choice than others. See, as a half-gaijin, I was always kept under close scrutiny. It made me mean, and that made me undesirable. Until, that is, Yoritomo Tomoru came to find a wife. \n\n\"He wanted a strong, menacing wife, one that could handle the rough seas. He was a captain, a pirate, and a Gaijin hunter of sorts, and he would stay out on the ocean to destroy our enemies or raid the Crane as long as he could manage. So, an undesirable hothead like me made for a perfect wife. \n\n\"We hated each other, at first. We fought like ogres oftentimes. But, we learned to respect each other. Each battle we faced as a team made us stronger. And that bond turned to love. Truly a gift from Lady Sun. \n\n\"So, the map. He made them out of necessity, strictly. One day I noted that I liked his maps. I said they showed how clever he was. Well, then he made more, and more and more.\" Mai chuckled, and took a drag from her pipe. \"He would bring me a new map every week for me to gaze upon, just because I noted that I liked _one._ He was a simple man in some ways, and a hard one at that. But that soft moment was one I looked forward to, always.\"\n\nMai sighed, and tapped the case. \"This is one of many. I have dozens at my estate and on my ship. I used to think I should hold them all in a horde, but as I've gotten older I've realized a map is especially useless if it's kept in a dark hold. I would like people to see what my husband was capable of. So many think he was just a pirate that was slain by the Crane on the high sea. But he was an artist as well. And a wonderful husband and father.\n\n\"I suppose it's a long winded way of saying that this map's history is of a practical thing given beauty, made to impress a loved one, while still be useful to those who didn't know better... It's like an inside joke; you may not understand the context, but that doesn't mean it's not amusing.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She listened exceedingly attentively to the story, trying to grasp as many details from it as she could. There was a lot she had a poor grasp of, especially in matters of love itself, but she knew pirating almost as little. There was the claims of being a pitiful choice, empathy flowed far more rich in those times, especially when related to the flaws of anything deserving of potent scrutiny.. Like anything which might even invoke the term 'gaijin'. When the map came up, it was less about understanding and more about actual immersion, she was drawn in further at this time. A map was a perspective of communication, and sometimes a good one did take a lot of cleverness. Maps following maps like letters in a chain, it was much like a book she'd read before. Weekly maps.. Was a statement with plenty of subtext to it too, it demonstrated an immersed talent. She was absolutely correct, the map she was being offered held quite a lot to consider, she had done quite proper by insisting such a tale was known before accepting it.\n\nThe ending of such a tale however spoke of expecting a response in turn, something that speaks of its conclusion, of its present day rather than history. \"It is true, a map that never sees light never gets a chance to mean anything. I shall make sure to bring honor to the creation such an artist has brought by attempting to discover a way it might get to speak of its artistry even to one who is not its trailblazer. After all, it's beauty lends fact that there is much more written here than just the paths for boats to follow. I thank you kindly for sharing this opportunity offered by such a wonderous piece.\" By the way the statements were closed, she put emphasis in calling its creator an artist, not a pirate. As she had said, it can take knowing something's tale to know how to properly respect it.\n\nShe had a lot to consider, so she was a bit slow to realize that a bow would have also been appropriate there, instead she was just sitting. Rushing to stand bumped the table, reminding her of the tea she had by having some of its contents lightly spill. That wasn't something she'd noticed until she accomplished her bow, leaving her slightly flustered. She was a guest, tea stains would not be appropriate, even in light amounts. She tried to make up for her mistake by rushing to sit.. Though she had no further plans. It was fortunate that there were mantis staff at hand, such a concern might not have even been a problem with skilled staff around. But there were still two concerns unresolved in that even if staff had everything under control. Foremost was that it was a failure of etiquette to her in some pretty basic ways, and that left her terrified simply as a trained impulse. That however wasn't the only problem.\n\nIn the rush of everything she'd tried to recover from, something in her possession had been smacked by the table as she stood, while rushing back to it had set it loose with a clatter. The small wooden case had loudly skipped a short distance away and landed at the feet of one of the staff. Even as it left her possession, she was torn by its importance.. But the flaws of her etiquette needed to be polished first else it could be seen as disrespect rather than just being slow or a clumsy accident. She focused on that the entire time, but her worry for the case would not have been a challenge to notice.\n\nMoshi Mai was not the only one with a family case that was deeply important to them."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai tried to hold the table as Sumire stood to bow, and was able to at least keep her own cup from toppling. The tea spilled onto the map case, but true to its construction, it would be fine, water-tight. \n\n\"Shinjo-san! There's no need for-\"\n\nA box clattered out and down to the floor, close to Mina's feet. She was already hurrying over with a means to wipe up the spilt tea, and accidentally kicked the wooden case across the floor. \n\n\"Hold on, I... Got it!\" Mai swiped the case up before it could end up anywhere else, and held it up triumphantly. \"Hm! Still got the reflexes, even after all these years.\" She went to hand it back to Sumire.\n\nBut, she retracted her hand. \"Say, this is a curious little case.\" She traced her nails around the side of it, feeling the seam where it opened. \"What's in here?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Her face was full of dread, despite this having happened before. She knew the case was insulated very well for.. Pretty much this sort of thing. It was another case true to its construction. Of course, worrying if the contents were okay was one thing, but that wasn't her only concern here. In addition to the embarrassment of what had happened overall, of course. She was also worried about the contents of the case.. Because attention had been drawn to it. Her concerns were a lot more invested than just that, but nothing about her demeanor yet gave away why. She'd gone fully pale as she carefully considered how to address this situation. Confirming the contents being okay was one goal, she treasured the contents too much to remain clear about the fact the contents were almost certainly unaffected. However, was this even the right time? Checking the contents would involve opening the case.. And she wasn't alone at present this time.\n\nWhen the initial shock cleared, she went from shock to confusion. She was being directly asked here, so no matter how much she hesitated to answer, the question didn't just go away. Sure, she was feeling a bit of shame for what had happened, but opening pandora's box would mean diving into some pretty exceptional shame.. And trauma.\n\nShe became desperate for the topic to be shifted, but she still would not lie about it. \"I'm terribly sorry for the interruption, that case is just a personal possession of mine. A childhood memory, that's all. Could I please have it back? That way we could return to more esteemed honored topics, like your map here, or your collection.. Or much anything else map related.\" It might be the best she could accomplish as a recovery. It was just unfortunate that she felt her recognition of the map to have been accomplished so well.. Until she tripped over the ending. Movements were always the roughest part for her, much harder than the proper words."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai had to say, she liked this Shinjo Sumire. Very polite, very skilled in her wording, and most of all she seemed to squirm like a worm when there was a problem. Okay, so maybe she _didn't_ like that last part, but it was always fun to throw her weight around. \"Now, now, Shinjo-san, what's the bother? The more you wish to change subjects, the more curious I'm going to get, you know.\" \n\nMina had already swiftly wiped off the table, and replaced the wet cup with a dry one, so there was no distraction there. Mai just had a little case in her hand, and she was much too curious to not pry. \n\n\"But, this _is_ your property,\" Mai admitted, \"And I shouldn't keep it from you. That would be rude, would it not? So, the only right thing to do is hand it back.\" She extended the case back out to Sumire, but she kept a tight grip on it. \n\n\"But first, show me what's inside. I showed you the inside of _my_ case, so it's only just. Or do you want to defy an ambassador's wishes?\" Mai's smile was pleasant, but her eyes definitely had a mischievous glint to them. \"Besides, it can't be _that_ bad, surely. Unless you're hiding something maho-related or some such nonsense, I doubt there's anything in there that I would find disturbing.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She didn't really know much of what a pirate was like, so she was unaware of the potential comparisons here, but the small mysterious treasure box held distinctly different meaning in a change of perspective. Pandora's box would have been the best comparison, if she actually knew what that was. The case was important to her, but that memory was only one part of it, and she feared the rest. She was then initially relieved when told that the case was was hers.. But potency with socially-interpreted investigations lent that there was more going on than just that. She glanced at the case when it was offered, placing her hand upon the other side.. But never even tried to take it. She had experienced a lot of intimidation before, she was used to that sort of treatment.. The case itself was a firm reminder of the very thing.\n\n.. What was more distinct was the more playful sincerity integrated within the raw bullying, not quite the same thing anymore. She had a feeling she was just being gaslit.. But it wasn't as if she was being approached maliciously. At least, not yet, the case hadn't been opened yet. She had to weigh which would be more terrible at this point, opening the case or furthering such Mantis curiousity. She was actually still convinced by her terror that the case would be worse, a reinforced lesson from her past she couldn't ignore, but such intimidation spoke that at this point.. The case was going to be opened one way or another.. And the problem of its contents would then just stack with or without her hesitations. This wasn't an either/or.\n\nShe still was too shamed to speak of it, so she simply unfastened the case on the side exposed to her and started opening it. The contents would speak her shame without her, that's what she thought. This would also allow her to at least check to see if the contents were okay too. When the ambassador would relinquish enough of a hold for the case to be opened, the shohōsen glasses within would be revealed."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "It took some time, and it took a bit of bullish tactics, but finally Mai's curiosity was sated. Sumire opened up the case, and revealed...\n\n... Something. Mai hadn't seen such a thing, but it looked like a bits of glass held on a frame. \"Hm?\" She leaned forward, and took a look at the odd thing. \"What are these?\" She took hold of them, taking them out of the case, and fiddled with them gently. \"Is it decoration, perhaps? Some sort of jewel-\"\n\nIn a moment, the lenses went over her eyesight, and she took notice at the magnification. She squinted for a moment, and held them close by to her face without putting them on, and noticed that she could see slightly better.\n\n\"...Huh.\" She snapped her fingers for Mina's attention, and ordered for the map to be opened. And when she looked down at the wording on the map, she noticed how much clearer it was!\n\n\"Wow... These are magnificent! Shinjo-san, what are these?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She didn't know how to take in all of this.. Excitement? Certainly it was obscured mockery, right? Having such a thing was only something she'd been viciously reminded repeatedly for years was a shame that she was left to carry around now. Well, the ambassador was no Unicorn, maybe the truth of its nature wasn't yet fully understood. It would also be cruel to not be truthful about it, she knew personally how misunderstanding of its truth could bring one to a path of pure disappointment that really only got worse with time.\n\n\"They are apparently called glasses, named after the clear.. Crystal? Sorry, there is a lot about it I don't understand. My family had provisioned me with this piece, but given its nature there is.. A lot to misunderstand about it. It's actually, unfortunately, completely gaijin in design and origin. I know, that means its a terrible thing, I've been constantly reminded about it being a sever tarnish on anything Rokugani and that I should always remember that it is a symbol of absolute shame, but my own mother had provisioned me with it to.. Help overcome my own weakness in sight. Kept apart, this arrangement is the only connection I still have with her. The truth makes it an ugly and horrifying monstrosity, but.. It does work.. And it is my only connection to my mother at this time. A Unicorn problem, as you probably have surmised.\"\n\nShe was shaking in fear as she spoke, her confidence drained, her fears only getting worse in each reminder as she brought up the extent of shame this tool spoke of. Her fears reminded her of the harsh repercussions she's faced over the years of having this.. The stern lessons reinforcing exactly how terrible it was. There was a side of her still expecting punishment for it coming up at all. In fact, wouldn't it be worse, showing it to a Mantis? A Mantis Ambassador, at that. This is exactly the trauma that juxtaposed the intimidation from earlier, and was still far more extreme after years of it."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Glasses. \n\nMai looked at the glasses some more, holding them to her eyes until the words she read were magnified and in focus, making a chuckle like a young girl with a new toy. It was truly fantastic, and something she hadn't witnessed before. But, as she listened to what Sumire said, and realized the importance of the glasses, she carefully set them down. \n\n\"I see. These mean a great deal to you, then.\" Mai sighed, and pondered on it for a moment before suddenly standing. \"Follow me, Shinjo-san. Don't dawdle.\" She took the glasses with her, carefully carrying them as she took the Unicorn outside...\n\n...And to the small shrine to Amaterasu on the Mantis grounds. She walked briskly to the shrine, stopping to give proper respect, and proceeded to set the glasses down at the foot of the shrine. She clapped three times to wake up any spirits and announce her presence, and started to pray. \"Amaterasu, great Lady Sun, will you hear me? Your humble servant, Moshi Mai, seeks your blessing and cleansing on this trinket from parts unknown.\" \n\nShe spoke softly, and waited for a time before she felt Her presence, and that the deed was done. To those that were not of the gift, it didn't look like much happened, But Mai knew what she was doiing. She retrieved the glasses, and retreated from the shrine with a deep bow before handing the glasses back to Sumire. \n\n\"There. Lady Sun has deemed these cleansed and devoid of any wicked gaijin spirit or malady. Wear these with pride, Shinjo Sumire, for if Amaterasu deems them right, then they are truly right.\" To make her point, she didn't wait for the girl to waffle on it; Mai put the glasses directly on Sumire's head, boldly making her position clear. \"There. I assume you need them to see clearly, do you not? The one-legged man that eschews his crutch never truly stands tall, now does he?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She wasn't knowledgeable regarding pirates, but she was getting exposure to a base concept that seemed to exist here. If something useful existed, and that thing was not their own, a pirate simply seemed to find a way to make it their own. As someone who had maps where foreign influence had been a passing concept, it too made sense, maybe the Mantis were just like this. However, unfortunately, she had her own lessons reinforced over half her life from a point of significant influence to her.. Undoing that in a day wasn't even feasible. For example, she knew the kami could be playful, that even divine influence did not serve as evidence in any matters of politics. The kami could just be playful like that, sometimes.\n\nHowever, what stood out anyway was the Mantis attempts at simply being supportive. They.. Tried.. And that sincerity was not missed. She didn't understand why such an effort was being made, but.. That again related to the pirate idea. Either the Mantis was trying to show support in a struggle of Unicorn design in a subject both clans were exposed to, Gaijin stuff, or it was the whims of a pirate who thought that such an item needed to be conquered and made Rokugani. She still had little idea how such a tool was made though, as far as she knew it couldn't be anything but Gaijin, anything else was just hopeless wishes...\n\n.. But that did not stop the gesture from having any meaning.\n\nShe made an attempt at a bow, pausing when the glasses shifted as a result. She wasn't used to wearing such a tool. \"T-thank you for your kindness. You do me more kindness and honor than just sharing a memorable gift of your family, truly the Mantis appears to have the best intentions when it comes to interactions with the Unicorn. I hope it might not be considered imposing were I.. To find opportunity to visit more often?\" Her glasses were still a dishonorable flaw, but they were useful.. And maybe she could visit here to make more use of such an important tool."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Oh, there's no need to thank me, Sumire-san.\" Mai rested her hands on her hips, and looked back at the shrine. \"I'm sure you're aware, but I'm Gaijin by blood. My father was Maraenean. A kind man, and an honorable one, I've heard, but a gaijin all the same. Nothing can be done about that. My mother birthed me, and by the Lady's Grace she spoke to me. If not for that, my life might've been short or insignificant. But, either way, it was important for my mother that I never know much about my father, or his culture. He left me letters, trinkets, lot of little things to say that he loved me, and wished to know me. \n\n\"I had to destroy them all in holy fire, to assure to the Moshi Family that I was no friend to gaijin.\" Mai's tone was no longer very jovial, more morose. \"It was right and just, do not get me wrong. And I will never side with gaijin over Rokugan. But... Some gaijin things could make great change for Rokugan, if we were to just harvest it, take it and make it ours. Look at your Clan, for instance. There were diseases in these lands that were fatal, now turned into a mere inconvenience by gaijin cures. \n\n\"So, to make a ramble much shorter, Shinjo Sumire-san, I blessed those glasses of yours so you don't feel you must hide and be ashamed of something your ancestor left for you. Honor your honorable ancestors, always.\" Mai's speech was done, her sermon concluded. She felt the sun's heat on her back, and it was warm and pleasant. She hadn't said anything to anger Amaterasu, it seemed. Good. \n\n\"As for another visit, young lady,\" Mai said, \"I'd like that. You are a bit too timid for my liking, Sumire-san, but I like you, all the same. Maybe some more time with us Mantis will fix that for you! Hm, I'll have you talking with the courage of a pirate in no time!\" She was jesting. Probably."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Her own past was also complicated, with a lot of finer details she wasn't quite aware of. She just knew her mother had a few lessons, in addition to the glasses, which stepped outside of proper tradition. The foregoings she endured after she was twelve was similar in that way to such assurance of holy fire, but since most of it was in lessons, there wasn't as much physical burning going on. Much more.. Psychological burning. The glasses.. Were apparently a distinct situation, she never did learn the details, all she knew was that she was allowed to keep them.. But they were then still a shame she was chained to.\n\nStill, this implied a few extra things. It hinted at why the Ambassador would be willing to entreat the glasses a bit.. But also that taking too much advantage of that good will could be seen as advocating negative reinforcement. The notation about piracy was at least correct, the whole turning useful unowned things into something then owned seemed to be true. But the signs of empathy seemed to be accurate as well. Both of them had gone through loss of a similar style.\n\n\"I.. Know about gaijin cures, my mother.. May have done more for me than provided a way to see more. My knowledge of sowing maps.. May have originated from the tailoring I learned.. After having a lot of young training in.. Inappropriate medical approaches. Not making medicine, something less.. Of proper etiquette. At least the young knowledge transfers well into something like sowing cloth and maps. Making something so inappropriate.. More acceptable. So.. It is something I sort of understand. It is just important to put the effort into proper conversions, even if that means sacrifices removing that which was least appropriate.\" This was, after all, a lesson of her youth, a fact of life she'd endured for over a decade now. It was effectively drilled into her, so that the tarnishes of her experiences were burned away in psychological holy flames that left intense inner scars."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"There are many things in Rokugan that did not come from here,\" Mai replied, \"That we accept wholeheartedly. Keep in mind, Meishodo, from your clan. The Phoenix were in a fury over it; between you and me, if the Phoenix were the authority on piss-drinking, they'd throw a fit if they saw someone mixing it with tea, they'd go ballistic and demand it be destroyed. Apologies for the sailor talk, but the point is sound: There will always be fear of gaijin things, until there's not. Meishodo is fine to most, now. They don't mind the spices and more my clan brings in from ships of unknown origins. Those big horses of yours are prized possessions, and they surely didn't come from these parts. \n\n\"You said it quite well, young lady: Take a bad thing, and make it appropriate. There are some things that are impossible, such as Gaijin Pepper, Kami damn it and its makers, but those glasses of yours? I can hardly imagine anyone making a case against seeing better.\" Mai laughed, resting her hands on her hips. \"As a matter of fact, if you know of how it's created, or can find a way to get me some, I would wear them brazenly, and if anyone had issue, I'd direct them to logic and reasoning.\" She held up her fists. Logic, and Reasoning.\n\n\"Excuse me, Moshi-sama.\" Mina-san came out to the gardens, carrying Sumire's map case gift. \"The merchant patrons have arrived for your meeting,\" She explained. \n\n\"Oh, damn. I forgot about them.\" She motioned for Mina to give the case to Sumire, who she gave a polite bow to. \"I must go back to work, Shinjo Sumire-san, I'm afraid. But, you will come and speak to me again. As I said, you're a touch too shy, girl, but I like you. There is but one condition: You wear your glasses when you come to see me. Mantis demand courage, and I will demand the same of anyone that wishes to keep my respect, and possibly friendship. Understood?\" \n\nAgain, she was bullying, but in an earnest, encouraging way? Moshi Mai was certainly imposing, but with compassion (when she wanted to. Sometimes she was just scary)."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "The whole conversation reminded her of her own considerations in perspective, and as such, the difference in perspective was simply why it was difficult to lend clarity into the present topic. She wasn't especially wrong either, as perspective was something that could go either way.. Or both. There wasn't any reason for her to recite the teachings of her etiquette teacher, or anything of the sort, mostly because the entire cause of circumstances was a presentation of shame she couldn't avoid and, as such, it seemed more like the Mantis was trying to derive support for her anyway. Either that, or it suited well some sort of Mantis plan currently ongoing.. Also possibly both. The attempt at kindness at least seemed to be genuine, even if the attempt seemed to be reaching a bit too far.\n\nThere certainly was at least one hint at how this could do something for some kind of Mantis plan. \"You want a set of glasses yourself? I'm sorry, I don't know the matter of making its.. Glass? I heard there are a lot of complexities involved too, making sure it handles a change of vision properly somehow. It was a lot to secure my own set, having another furnished with proper measurements would be a new challenge. I.. Could.. Make a request of my ambassador.. To have something like that provisioned special.. But I don't expect that will go very well. I'm sorry.\" She didn't even wear her glasses in the residence's public areas, at best wearing them while studying alone.. And not even always that. Her glasses had once almost became a consideration there, but it had been avoided. Her ambassador probably knew anyway, there were letters of correspondence for the maintenance of her glasses, but she had no position to ask for more.. Especially of this nature.\n\nShe then learned that the ambassador was out of time. \"I'm sorry if I was in the way of your other duties. Thank you for sharing your stories and.. Other kindnesses.\" She bowed, looking at the map she was being given while mentioning notions of kindness. It just might not have been the only form of kindness, but it was going to become a physical reminder of this meeting. \"I understand that you want me to.. Wear this tool while a guest of the mantis ambassador, here in your rooms.\" She avoided her usual notions of tarnishes, but had to pause in order to do so. It would not be an appropriate phrasing given it being such a request, but she wasn't used to calling it anything else.\n\nShe did have a few concerns about just being dropped the map and sent upon her way, she had no idea how heavy it actually was.. And she wasn't at all physically capable. Struggling with such a gift as she left would certainly be yet another notable embarrassment to endure. She could only hope that it was light enough that she might be fine."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Why, of course I do.\" Mai rested her hands on her hips, mildly annoyed. \"You're lucky enough to be young, Sumire-san. You don't have watch your perfect eyesight slowly dwindle. So, yes, I'd want some lenses that could make me read a lot easier. All of Rokugan would, gaijin in design or not.\" \n\nBut, she seemed adamant that it couldn't be done. Or rather, that it wouldn't be easy. Mai listened to that, and understood that yes, presently, it would be impossible. But, A Mantis knew an opportunity when she heard it. \"Be as it may, perhaps we'll just have to see about making some, here in the city. Glass-making, some blacksmithing, thinks of that nature, yes? Surely with our Clan's respectful means of acquiring things, we could make it happen. Not to mention, no one would balk at Rokugani-made items, even if the concept came from elsewhere. Just... Think about it, won't you?\" \n\n\"Oh, please. If you were in the way, I'd tell you and make you leave. I'm certainly not afraid to speak my mind.\" Mai assured Sumire of that with a smile, hoping the girl would take that in good faith. \"And I insist that you do, Sumire-san,\" She added, \"As you suffer from the worst case of self-doubt I have ever witnessed. If you are as bright as you talk and as clever as you were about this map business, then surely you can go far. But not if you are too afraid to adorn a gift from your ancestor in the presence of an ally.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She expected she was just being seen as young again, younger than she was, but that was something she was used to. She could recall her sight dwindling even as a child, so she really didn't feel it was an appropriate comparison. However, it could always be a matter of perspective, a lesson that just likes to keep come up. Even the mention of revised attempts at producing glasses was yet another shift of perspective, to bring the concept from a Gaijin perspective to a Rokugani perspective as a means to address the Gaijin problem. Without a sufficient sense of perspective, she had no sufficient conclusion to the difference. Of course, that did not mean she could get away with saying nothing.\n\n\"Glass and metal seem to be important, but there is something special about the glass that seems important to its function, something which would become its own obstacle. I worry the solution might not be the most appreciative to Rokugani values, maybe requiring special sands in its preparation? However, by not knowing, I can't say there isn't a solution either. It might do my mother proud if her earnest gift led to true Rokugani furnishings, a tool that let blossom Samurai wisdom even when challenged by time.. If there was such an option.\" It wasn't as if she knew how lens worked to distort sight, but she knew there was an importance in process for its functionality. She wouldn't get her hopes up while such an unknown persisted to haunt her, especially after years of negative reinforcement. Perspectives still mattered, things might change if hope seemed more possible.\n\nShe might be a bit more reserved in her hopes, but she knew her present company was nothing of the sort. The Mantis were certainly more expressive than she was. Even now, she was left with figuring out how to properly transport the map with her. Much like hope, she wasn't expressive of her inabilities of that nature, but her diminished size did not hide it very well, especially after fumbling a case."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Well then,\" Mai said, \"It would seem there's a lot to research, then.\" Moshi Mai nodded, crossing her arms. \"Now, I cannot order you to do anything, but I think you should research this. It might be a business ripe for the picking, you know! At the very least, let your Ambassador know; she's a woman that appreciates initiative and headstrong people, you know. Timidness is for Crane and Phoenix, after all. \n\n\"But, I believe that is that for now. Do keep in touch, if you will. Oh, and here.\" She shouted for Mina, who quickly ran over. \"Carry that map scroll back to the Ide residence for our new friend, won't you?\" Mina, ever eager to help, took the map case and hugged it to her body snugly. \"There. Now, off you go, Shinjo Sumire-san. May Lady Sun shine some clarity onto your heart.\" \n\nAnd with that, Sumire was dismissed, with a gift in tow. It would be a good thing to note and report to her Ambassador, that she left a good impression on another Ambassador. If that wouldn't give her a boost to her confidence, Moshi Mai wasn't sure what could."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "It was a lot to be uncertain about, but that just implied it was a lot to consider, something she did a lot back home after a busy day anyway. She would probably at least want to ensure records of the map's story were ready, the details were still meaningful in such a gift, considerations of the map would have to come before anything else. After that, well.. There would still be additional time for other considerations.\n\nShe bowed, ready to depart. \"Thank you for your kindness and wisdom. My duties will have to come first, but keeping in touch can still be potentially part of my duties. Might the days to come be filled with proper opportunity, and fewer fabricated maps.\" She knew the ambassador would have such an incident with the original map problem resolved, but it was still a shame that such an opportunity was falsified, so she felt it was a good target for well wishes. It was only later that she would wonder how her phrasing might apply to the previously presented concept of piracy when regards to having days filled with opportunity. She didn't know, she wasn't the best with understanding commerce.\n\nShe at least led the way for her map carrier, silently thankful that she wouldn't have to struggle with her own physical inability here. She might still need to explain such a notable package, but that was at least something she was far more capable of."
}
] | 406 | 12,780 |
206.131579 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*The most recent blunder on Takamori's behalf regarding the reputation he had underestimated at the Juniper Teahouse weighed heavy on the Dragon, though for opposite reasons than most might assume. Due to his lack of understanding of how bad the Teahouse was it was unlikely anyone in the group would want to try such lovely tea and sake!...On top of that kabuki theatre was likely to be a singular affair until amends were made luckily there was an ancient rite few samurai were aware of that mended all bridges, this ancient and powerful tradition crossed boundaries between peasant and samurai alike, and even the Emporer could be brought to smile by this token. What Takamori had in mind was a cultural property of Rokugan so vast that only certain henin was specialized in its preparation and yet all samurai clamored for it at one time or another, wars were fought over it, relationships crushed in lack of its proper education... Takamori of course spoke of... Food. Having been brought up in the mountains vegetables were a staple diet though there were times when he had been only able to secure \" Mountain Tuna\" Though he would likely never speak of that outside the mountains themselves. It had taken some time but he had managed to track down within the embassy genuine dumplings like those of his home in the Agasha lands. The dumplings were just as Takamori recalled from his time in Kyuden Agasha, packed with mushrooms, carrots, and other vegetation from the mountains, Takamori had made sure a small basket was packed full of them and stacked with 3 layers, there were few woes that food and good drink could not dissipate in the Dragons oh so humbled opinion.*\n\n*He personally made the trip through the city streets lightly weaving between the inhabitants of the city before arriving at the Embassy, he tipped his jingasa up and looked up at the structure before giving a soft smile, at the unique structure of the Mantis clan. He had heard rumors in the mountains during campaigns to protect the borders of healers that had no equal within the clan, it had always been a goal of the Dragon to study under one and bring the knowledge back to the mountains but it was one he had yet to meet as of yet. He paid the proper respects at the door and made sure his katana was worn on the right-handed side so it could not be drawn easily before stepping into the Embassy and leaving the basket on the counter making sure that the attendants knew the dumplings were to be delivered to Yoritomo Takeya. This completed he began to leave the Embassy thinking it was best he checked on the arrival of his Yari and if it had arrived he might spend some time outside the city walls in meditation.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was humming to herself as she was making to leave the embassy. Today actually had been fairly light in terms of work to be done at the building, which meant she could justify going out on patrol. Perhaps greet and check in on some of the merchants they had arrangements with. After all, it helped to assure them they weren't just seafaring thugs, as their reputation at times was, but people genuinely wanting to lend aid and make mutually beneficial investments.\n\nAs she started for the exit, though, she made note of a man bearing the mon of the Dragon.\n\n*Odd... We've not have any recent dealings with them to my knowledge...*\n\nThen she sniffed the air, and the aroma of vegetable dumplings filled her nostrils. She slowed her walk a bit at this; they were becoming one of her weaknesses, to be sure, and she was grateful her training regimen allowed her to indulge, and-\n\nShe had to remind herself they were likely not for her. Trying to push the scent out of her mind, she approached the Dragon and bowed. \"Good day, Dragon-sama. Might I help you?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*Takamori paused taken off guard by the sudden approach before smiling softly as he offered a gentle and respectful bow, a moment passed before he raised his head * \" A meeting like this is as welcomed as the cooling winds of my homeland please forgive my uninvited arrival I was delivering a gift with accompanying apologies for an oversight on my behalf to one of your Clan, I am Agasha Takamori, may I request the honor of your name as well.\" *The Dragon's raised his hand slowly and removed his jingasa, the charms along his hat lightly jingled as he slid his hat free, his face had the seemings of youth though his eyes betrayed an aura of someone near his 30s, and his hair was raven black and a beard covered his face. It was not often Takamori met a Mantis, the mountains were far removed from the ocean and most of Takamori's adventures had taken place in forests or haunted lands where ships and sailors were far and few between, he studied the woman checking for any sign he might have unintentionally breached a social taboo not wishing to incur anymore ill fortune than he already had*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah... Well that is quite the greeting!\" She chuckled a little bit. The woman was in her late twenties, sporting a shaved head and clad in an orange kimono with trim in the same green favored by her clan. There was a visible scar on her face right on the left corner on her face, but she still wore a gentle smile.\n\n\"Agasha-san... Your name sounds somewhat familiar. And you say you are here to apologize for an indiscretion? Might I-\"\n\nShe stopped and the smile dropped from her face. She suddenly remembered where she had heard his name from.\n\n\"Ah... Yoritomo-san has explained the situation,\" She noted, somewhat flatly. \"Might I ask what crossed your mind when you took one of our Samurai to an illegal operation? Does your ambassador know of your actions?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*The sheer moment the words \" Illegal operation \" Crossed her lips the Dragon's face went blank as he tilted his head pondering for a moment *\"....Illegal... Operation?...\" *One second passed then two then three before realization dawned on the Dragon* \"AH!!! I see so that's the situation!\" *The Dragon gave a carefree smile and righted himself having finally reached the light of understanding* \" No no that was the previous owner I am lead to believe the new owner has assured me of honest intentions to redeem the tea houses reputation, I had not realized the previous owner had given it such a scandalous reputation.\" *The Dragon bowed his head low in sheer apology as his dark hair fell in cascades along his face* \" I am not sure if my ambassador knows, I do my best to not trouble him during his duties\" *By this of course Takamori meant ' I do my best not to trouble him lest he find some errand or responsibility to put upon my shoulders.' But this seemed a better translation* \" I humbly request your clan's forgiveness as I am new to Ryoko and was unaware of such a scandal I would never offer such a grievous insult willingly please accept the vegetable buns, a token of Kyoden Agasha cuisine as a token apology and a favor of me should you ever require the use of a Shugenja the fault is truly my own.\" *Takamori felt a pinge at the back of his mind noticing that several people seemed a little uneasy with this teahouse, perhaps he should inquire later about the full nature of the teahouse, but this felt like a quest for another time.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "A number of thoughts crossed Kana's mind. Such as how Takeya would be able to make a judgement solely on the previous reputation if he had just arrived or why potentially discreditable conduct was seen as needless trouble for the ambassador. Still, despite all this, there was something earnest enough about the man that meant she didn't want to *Completely* Reject or needle him. Not to mention the offer of a favor was open enough it could very much come in use.\n\n\"Agasha-san,\" She began, smiling politely. \"The gesture is most appreciated, and as a Daughter of Amaterasu, I've been taught of the importance of compassion. Aside from those descended from the heavens themselves, I would say there are none who have not stumbled at least somewhat in their life. However, I hope you will take this opportunity to be better informed of your surroundings and to think before you act, as your actions had the potential to not just shame yourself, but others as well.\" There was a kindness to her voice, but she spoke firmly as well. \"While you must speak your apology to Yoritomo-san himself, and I can see to it your gesture is delivered to him, I appreciate your willingness to atone for your indiscretion. I will also keep in mind your offer of a favor, and there may come a time when we call upon it.\" Her posture relaxed somewhat. \"If it please you, I can tell him that you wish to apologize in person, so you can arrange a meeting?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*The Agash righted himsel seeing happy at the news of a chance for a formal apology* \" Ah! That would be most appreciated I meant to apologize in person here buuuut it seems he is otherwise preocupied so I left the dumplings over there... I am not sure of your customs but I assume vegetables are acceptable.\" *The Dragon thought of asking her to elaborate on gestures the Mantis had shown him however a small part of Takamori thought this might be a wonder better left alone for now, he folded his hands in his haori and nodded his head * \" Please make use of the favor whenever you wish, though I don't know cities all that well I take my responsibility as a Shugenja quite seriuosly... Though I should warn you\" *The Agasha gave a some what bashful smile knowing the reputation of his family and how far off the marker he was from the rest of the Agasha* \" I fear my talents lie in air and water kami instead of earth and fire... That said I have presided over many births and funerary rites and have counciled Daimyo in spiritual matters, if any of this is ever of use to you.\" *The Dragon beamed at the idea of arranging a formal apology, as this seemed in line with the original goal of the morning* \" That would be ideal though... Perhaps you should all pick the meeting place I seem to be adrift in a city so large\" * The Dragon smiled softly hinting to the Moshi \" I attract trouble like nothing else, you should arrange so we can avoid further issue \"* \" I thank you for your forgivness and taking me at my word, I shall endeavor to look for clearer waters in the future.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana looked over to the dumplings. She idly entertained the idea that surely Takeya wouldn't miss a couple, but ever dutiful, she restrained herself. As she listened, she found herself rather surprised; this man had given counsel to Daimyos? Stranger things had happened in Rokugan, though...\n\nShe bowed to him. \"We will send a letter to arrange a meeting once the details have been worked out with Yoritomo-san. I have faith he would be willing to hear you out at the very least. When the time comes to call on that favor, I shall keep what you have said in mind. I am not certain what you think of the Mantis, but our Shugenja invoke more than just the Earth and the Fire kami.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*The Agasha smiled noticing her gaze linger for a moment* \" That would be wonderful, perhaps I should consider asking you each for a list of places to avoid to evade such a blunder again.\" * Takamori paused for a moment before giving a small laugh, it was good natured rather than mocking* \"I am confident you do, still when most think of the Agasha name the idea of flying boulders and gouts of fire come to mind, and I fear I am something of a black sheep amongst my family.\" *He stood and gestured toward the door offering the Mantis to follow him* \" With the approval of the honored daughter of Amaterasu I would like to procure more dumplings... You know in case those go astray or in case some soul would like a batch as well, I am certain if I found them once it shouldn't be to hard to locate again if you would care to accompany me.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana considered her next move carefully for a moment. After what had happened, she was entirely certain if she should trust an invitation anywhere from this fellow. At the same time, vegetable dumplings would be a rather nice change from pork, and she needed to get out and about if she was going to be patrolling. It might also offer a better opportunity to get to know Takamori a bit better, and make a better judgement regarding his character.\n\n\"Well, as it happens I was about to step out for my rounds, so I would be amenable to that. Please, lead the way, Agasha-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*The Dragon smiled and lead the way out pausing for a moment to look around the city, to gauge where he was before heading down the streets back toward the Dragon Embassy* \" The city is so large I must confess it can be a tad disorienting at times I have had to have outside assistance to find my way recently.\" *He smiled turning his head to glance to the Mantis* \" I have heard of the isles the mantis is said to sail from, I am sure it is as marvelous as this if the stories are to a fraction of truth.\" *The Agasha paused here and there when the Mantis needed to conduct her business in which he stood away far enough not to impede her but was able to come to her aid if needed, now and then he stopped to play kenmari with a group of children now and again when a pause was needed but otherwise he kept close to the Mantis if one had paid attention his katana sat on his right hip the entire time obviously leaving the Dragon in a difficult position to defend himself with the blade if needed. Once they reached the embassy the Dragon left the Mantis's side before returning a moment or so later with a familiar-looking basket radiating a rather familiar smell* \" They are freshly made... I believe our attendants have grown to expect my visits..\" *He gave a mischievous smile offering the basket up to the Mantis*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah, yes. The city is a bit of a maze at times. I know I needed some help when I first arrived! Of course now I'm fairly well acquainted with things,\" She spoke, weaving about the crowds. She wasn't on an active investigation, so she was fairly relaxed in her approach, more just keeping an eye about her, occasionally greeting merchants she often passed by.\n\n\"The isles are quite lovely, yes! While I consider myself more partial to the mountains than the isles, the sea air is rather nice! Should storms come, though, it can get quite treacherous. And wet. Especially at some of the less reputable teahouses,\" She joked with a snort. \n\nShe raised an eyebrow when he stopped to play Kenmari with children; it was a bit odd to do so in the middle of their walk. That said, he was starting to seem more like the type who would genuinely not know what the Juniper Teahouse was, rather than someone legitimately attempting to bring dishonor to other Samurai.\n\n\"So, Agasha-san, what are the Dragon lands like? Assuming you can speak to them. I understand you're quite secretive.\n\nShe did indeed grin when he had led them to more dumplings. \"Excellent! Well, now Yoritomo-san need not worry about the ones meant for him.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*He shared in the Mantis's laugh, his Togashi mentors would be saddened if he could not find some humor in his own stumbles along the journey, he folded his hands once more inside his haori and smiled looking up to the skies* \" The islands sound wonderful I would love to visit them one day, I doubt anywhere that has such lovely representation as you could be all that disreputable\" *He lowered his head and thought for a moment* \" While I admit we have little that I think would appeal to others outside the mountains they have always been my home and close to my heart, the plant and animals there does ones soul good and the light from the volcanos can be quite stunning... The most distinguished samurai among us have weddings near such things and the glow makes the ceremony all the more enchanting and the mountain trails while treacherous offer a chance for much self-reflection for those willing to undertake such. Many samurai expect to meet their greatest challenge on the battlefield, but the most cunning of foes dwells within one's own heart.:\" *The Dragon lowered his head giving a soft smile* \" I miss the shrines and the Togashi brotherhood, I spent much time among them and the Kitsuki, and though this place does have its elegant charms there is a part of me that misses the mountains, especially Kyuden Agasah.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, ah... Thank you, Agasha-san. That is both kind and forward of you.\"\n\n*Did he just...?*\n\nKana pushed it out of her mind, and focused on what he spoke about. \"A volcanic wedding? My, that must be rather exciting! Romantic as well. The fire symbolizing such passion... I wonder if anyone has ever set a romance story there?\" She began openly musing. \"So are all the mountains there volcanic?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "\"It is quite beautiful many stories in Kyuden Agasha tell of romances won and lost in the light of the volcano\" *The dragon shook his head smiling softly* \"No no some of the mountains are teething with a lush wildlife and diverse plants you can't find anywhere else in the empire, in fact our very own Iron Benton tea is rarely seen outside Dragon lands, there are some mountains that are freezing and snow storms are not unusual. Rivers and streams are also quite common however I fear the difficulty of navigating the mountains does leave us to work harder for trade. Still however there is a beauty to the snowy and fiery peaks that I feel privileged to call my home.\" *The Dragon turned seeming some what hopeful at the moment* \" I do confess though I would love to see the open ocean if I wa ever fortunate enough to find a ship willing to teach the fine art of sailing, I'm lead to believe your clan have no rivals at sea and have mastered sailing with the same dedication and passion that the Mirumoto take to the study of Niten.\"*He held little hope but he did entertain a small fantasy of being invited on a Mantis ship to see the open sea for himself*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana listened carefully as he described the Dragon lands in detail. She found herself getting a bit homesick at all the talk of the mountains as well. \"Well, aside from the Volcanos, it sounds as though there's quite a few similarities to the Valley of the Centipede! We live quite high up in the mountains; many a visitor's been scared off by the lifts and just how high above the ground they end up,\" She added with a giggle. \"You can feel just how close you are to Lady Sun up there. Other shrines and temples, magnificent as they are, just can't capture that same feeling in that same way.\"\n\nAs the topic went to sailing, she looked only slightly surprised; the Dragon had always been independent spirits from what she had heard, so it wasn't terribly shocking he saw something admirable in seafaring rather than just another sign of the Mantis being glorified pirates. \"There's a peace in the ocean as well. If you go to the docks early enough, and find an empty one, you can observe the waves. It's an excellent spot for meditation. As far as learning sailing goes, I am certain there would be some of our Samurai who would be happy to help you. Provided things go well with Yoritomo-san, of course. Myself, I'm more of a passenger than a captain when it comes to ships!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*The Dragon smiled as she spoke of this \" Valley of the Centipede\" Hearing her describe it as so similar to his own home minus the mountains lead his mind to paint a picture, he found himself almost longing to see what it felt like to be so close to Lady Sun within those mountains* \" I hope that your Clan understands the incident was a faux pa and little more but either way if you were ever inclined to journey far from the sea for a time I would be honored to show you the mountains and even the volcanos if you ever wanted to see the glow for yourself, and of course, you are always welcomed to join me for tea at the embassy and vegetable dumplings if you find your duties allow.\" *He turned his head staring down the street before tilting his head* \" Your duties seem to take much of your time, do you have to walk this route daily?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana wasn't quite sure what to make of the situation. Such an invitation did take on a different connotation in her mind after he had been so forward previously. Then there was the whole business with with Takeya which despite the man's efforts, still hadn't been resolved. Even if Kana was coming around to the idea it was an honest mistake rather than anything malicious, it wasn't her honor at stake. With that said, more friends were always welcome, and this Takamori seemed a good sort.\n\n\"Thank you, Agasha-san,\" She replied. \"I shall keep both invitations in mind! As far as my duties, you are correct. The work of a magistrate does require vigilance, and I do make a habit of examining the docks daily. I far prefer it to being stuck in the embassy all dat, however!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "* He tilted his head somewhat confused as he stared at the city streets before tapping his chin.* \" Forgive my ignorance Magistrate but are the people here so deceitful? I confess in my lands I do not have much dealings with people outside the yokai sightings and temples.. I did not think the Heimin would be so deceitful to their lords.\" * Takamori thought back his time back home and reflected how little he actually knew about the lower caste outside excorcisms and religious ceremonies he did not know the actual life of the Heimin, he had seen battle like all Dragon shugenja but that had been alongside felllow Samurai and the ashigaru that were present followed orders obediently. He paused in the middle of the street as realization finally dawned on him before turning and bowing to the Magistrate* \" I think I have much to learn still of life outside the monastery and they Kyuden, my ignorance has clearly insulted your Clan , while I do wish to offer my full apologies in person I would request to apologize to you and your clan as a whole.\" * He rose smiling softly* \"THankyou Magistrate though I don't think this was the purpose of our stroll I do believe I have gained useful insight from you.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "It took a moment for Kana to catch Takamori's meaning. \"Ah, you mean what happened with the Juniper teahouse? Well, by the very nature of what they do, they need to be deceitful. It's illegal, after all, as much as anything can be considered illegal in the City of Lies...\" She sighed. \"The rules seem to be that if there's coin in the right purse, and one is not overly blatant with what they do, then a blind eye tends to be turned. It's certainly not an ideal state of affairs but... It is the state of affairs that we have to deal with.\"\n\nShe looked a bit surprised at what the Dragon spoke next. \"The entire clan? You mean you'd like the ambassador to be present as well?\" She gave him a curious look. \"Well, I'm not certain all that is necessary, but if you wish, I can at the very least present the idea to Moshi-sama. Unless I misunderstand you.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*The dragon righted himself standing back to his full height before folding his arms back into his haori as was per usual before smiling softly* \" I fear I am a firm believer of righting my wrongs, though if it is too much trouble I would not worry over it, if you feel a proper apology to Yoritomo is proper I am not in a position to disagree.\" * The Dragon tilted his head softly trying to think of how best to explain his intention.* \"What I am trying to say is I am unfamiliar with Mantis customs... I am wishing to gain insight as to the proper way to offer a genuine apology to your clan. As per Mantis customs, I suppose I could ask that I am being asked to be educated on how your Clan does things so as not to make another blunder.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Your desire to make things right is admirable, Agasha-san. As I said, I will at the very least mention it to Moshi-sama if you wish to entirely clear the air,\" She spoke, half intending the pun. \"There isn't so much to customs in such a situation. With that said, being direct and honest is much appreciated. We aren't quite the Crane, after all, where every interaction must become a complicated dance. If you are sincere in your words and have the courage to address what has happened to Yoritomo-san, I am certain he will at the very least recognize what you are trying to do.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "\"Ohhh that is simplistic!\" * The Dragon had worried slightly he knew the Crab's methods of receiving apologies were a bit more taxing and that the Crane did indeed demand elaborate formal displays for such manners and while the Dragon didn't mind going to his Daimyo about such things he was confident if he did the Daimyo would likely find some responsibility to give him in response... Takamori shivered at the idea of more manual labor around the embassy being placed upon him, if being sincere and direct was all that was needed then Takamori was confident he could see that done. He smiled giving a gentle bow to the Mantis* \"Thank you for sharing I think I understand the best method now... Would you permit me to see you safely back to your Embassy? I do not wish you to roam about without a proper escort if you would allow me the honor.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana blinked at the shugenja a few times. *He... Knows I'm a magistrate and this is what I do, right? I did mention that?*\n\nRemembering herself, Kana bowed, and smiled politely. \"Thank you very much for your offer, Agasha-san. I had assumed you would be coming with me as you did wish to speak with Yoritomo-san, and possibly Moshi-sama as well. Please, let us go ahead.\"\n\nShe started down back on the path to the embassy, glancing back to make sure she wasn't going to lose Takamori. \"So, before the incident, did you and Yoritomo-san know each other?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*He smiled following behind the magistrate as he let his mind wander pondering the apology as he turned down the streets with the Magistrate he supposed he was lucky it could be settled between the 2 rather than a large dramatic epic which he knew could happen from time to time depending on the severity of which the other party chose to receive the punishment, he looked up hearing the Magistrates question and smiled* \"Ohhh... I don't know him. \" * The Dragon said this so matter of factly he might have been remarking upon the weather* \" Truth is I met him at a kabuki theatre in the company of a Lion, outside that I honestly wouldn't have even known he was a Mantis if not for the Lion... Strange I didn't think sailors would care for kabuki...\" * The Dragon paused thinking on that though he said little else on the way back though when he returned he paused at the doors of the embassy* \" I thank you for your wisdom and for hearing me out Daughter of Amaterasu"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well... Why would someone who sails not enjoy the theater?\" She asked. She did feel a bit of sympathy towards the Dragon at the revelation that a Lion was involved; if Yoritomo hadn't been pleased, she could only imagine how a Lion would have reacted to being brought to the Juniper teahouse. \n\nOnce the pair had arrived at the embassy, she gave another polite smile to Takamori, and bowed. \"Of course. Thank you as well for the dumplings, Agasha-san. If you give me a moment, I'll inform Yoritomo-san of you arrival, and hopefully we can gave a conversation.\"\n\nBowing once more, she went into the embassy to check for Takeya.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*Takamori bowed as he departed from the Magistrate after saying his proper fairwells before resting in front of a nearby stone lantern he drew his legs in and sat opened palmed as he began to pass the time in quiet meditation, he figured he had a while to wait since it was likely the Magistrate or whoever she dedicated to the task would first have to locate Yoritomo, then would have to pursue him at said location, return to the Embassy be told of the arrival... Or there was the chance Yoritomo was already here? The Dragon shrugged nothing for it it's not like he couldn't halt his meditation the moment the Magistrate returned. He quieted his mind and began to let his mind empty as he felt the pull of the local kami around him *"
},
{
"author": "eagled20",
"message": "Takeya peeked his head around the corner, watching the Dragon he had spent an afternoon with. His brow furrows as he remembers being taken to the Fisherman's Quarter, a place where he hasn't spent much time even now.\n\n\"Moshi-sama are you sure about this? I mean he probably has good intentions, but he has no social acumen. Well, that's not true, I can think of a Crane who has less. You say Agasha san is here to apologize, and I certainly hope so, but I don't think it's me who should be apologized to.\"\n\nHe looks back at his superior in the clan for direction. Takeya was more used to doing the apologizing than receiving them, but he was also young and lacked the experience that many of his betters had."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana had to fight with all her being not to snicker; she knew exactly the Crane being referred to, and had become well acquainted with the \"Acumen\" Takeya described.\n\n\"Well, he did mention wishing to apologize to Moshi-sama as well, but I felt this was a good start. Even if inadvertant, he did put you in a compromising position,\" She explained. \"The decision as to whether or not to accept the apology is yours, Yoritomo-san. I've only given my suggestion based on my assessment of him.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "eagled20",
"message": "Takeya shakes his head before correcting his posture.\n\n\"Moshi-sama, this feels like a setup and I have a bad feeling about this, but I'll take the time and entertain the idea that somebody wishes to apologize to me.\"\n\nOpening up the door fully, Takeya slowly strides out. Wary of the dragon, he bows quickly.\n\n\"Agasha san, I am surprised to see you so soon. I have been told that you were looking for me, may I ask why?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "If Takamori had to be completely honest in this given scenario he almost felt like Takeya looked a little different in the daylight, he thought of commenting on this for a moment then quickly thought better, such observations were better made over sake... In a geisha house... Far removed from the potential consequences of a public meeting for an apology. \n\nThe Dragon pulled himself from his meditation and rose to his feet before smiling softly at the Mantis* \n\n\" You were found much quicker than I would think possible in such a large city. I understand the Teahouse we visited a few days ago has somewhat of a troublesome reputation and the invitation to such was counted as an insult.\" * At this the Dragon bowed softly to the sailor* \n\n\" I meant no disrespect in the slightest and ask your forgiveness for the matter, it is my understanding the owner is trying to repair the teahouse's poor reputation, I had no idea it was such poorly received location, I am new to Ryoko so I hope you can understand this slip and forgive me for such.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "*Set up for what?* Kana thought to herself as she approached Takamori alongside Takeya. She made sure to stand apart from the pair, however, not speaking or doing anything to indicate that she would interfere with this apology. It would be up Takamori to speak it, and up to Takrya to decide what to do with it.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "eagled20",
"message": "Takeya eyes the dragon for a moment before seeing the flowers left as a token of apology. He bows quickly for his response.\n\n\"Agasha san, I accept your apology but I cannot accept such a gift. While I do not have an eye for floral arrangement, this looks remarkable.\" ||gift offered 1 time, refused 1 time we are playing the gift dance||\n\nHe strokes his chin as he admires the flowers, before speaking.\n\n\"You are new to the city as well? I've only been here a short time, but I've been around many of the ports of the empire. From the Imperial Port to Earthquake Fish Bay. I've also frequented a few sake houses in the Merchant's quarter, perhaps I can show you a far more reputable one in the future? Even if the current owner of the tea house you took me to is attempting to improve their image, that is all they seem to be trying to improve.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*He blinked softly a bit surprised before smiling softly* \" I fear new may be an understatement this city is a tad different from the rural reaches of the mountains, though I would enjoy learning more of the sea over a bottle of sake, I would be honored to take you up on your offer to show me a more... Acceptable teahouse.\" *The Dragon bowed his head softly before standing upright*\n\n\" I hope in time to show you there was no insult intended in my actions...\" * He tilted his head for a moment before pondering to ask* \"I fear I am ignorant of what your home's delicacies may involve, the mountains yield much in terms of roots and vegetables but I suspect that may not be as enjoyable to you, is there a place you would prefer to visit now Yoritomo?\""
},
{
"author": "eagled20",
"message": "Thinking on it, and the various duties he was being given, Takeya quickly bowed to to Agasha.\n\n\"I do apologize Agasha-san, I am currently busy with a small litany of affairs here at the embassy. I am happy to visit another tea or sake house in the city, although there aren't any that particularly stand out. There are several I would be happy to show you though.\"\n\nThe young Mantis brushed some o the hair out of his face, his knuckles passing by the several piercings and earrings that Takeya had. The tiny clinking noises brought a slight smile to Takeya's face.\n\n\"Thinking on it, you are a gardener if what I have heard is correct. Do you grow root vegetables here in the city? Or anything in your garden? If so, maybe next time we meet I could visit you at your embassy. I can catch something from the river, you provide something else, and we see what kinds of food can be made, and what kinds of tea or sake would pair with them. I have heard that the Dragon have some of the best teas in the empire, and I would not say no to such an invitation.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "occultseeker",
"message": "*Takamori paused before realizing the Mantis had likely discussed with the Lion his attributes in the passed and smiled * \"I fear the Lion was mistaken. My Time in Shinomen forest has made me accustomed to the various spirits of nature including Kodama and the kami, I am able to help plants grow more easily but I fear I lack the actual ability to work the soil with my bare hands. I suppose you could argue I am just very good at listening to those that people rarely acknowledge, however. I am more than glad to lend you and your family my services for spirits if need be.\" * He smiled as he nodded his head at the mention of tea.* \" I can give you some of our Iron Benton it's rarely seen outside the mountains but the embassy keeps a bit on hand.\" * The Dragon offered a kind grin* \" I will make sure to show you the very best vegetables the Dragon has to offer and of course make sure you get a good supply of the Iron Benton.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana smiled warmly at the procedings. \"Well, if you do not mind my interrupting, it seems things are going well here. I am glad that you were able to apologize, Agasha-san, and that it has gone so well. If I can add on to this, the vegetable dumplings he provided me, and you back in the embassy, are a testament to the quality of the vegetables he speaks of. As I'm sure you know, I do love a good meal, so I would know!\" She chuckled.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "eagled20",
"message": "Takeya chuckled at the mentioning of food. \n\n\"Agasha san, if our next meeting over a freshly caught fish and some fine tea goes well, perhaps we make it a regular occurance. I've never tried Iron Benten, but it sounds like it could be quite the treat I could boast about to my family and one day my children. Unfortunately for now, Moshi Mai sama does have me taking care of some clerical work that seems rather important so I must return to that. Farewell Agasha san, until we meet again.\"\n\nThe young mantis bows quickly and exits the entry way to the embassy, hastily returning to the work he had been doing.\n\n||"
}
] | 187 | 7,833 |
529.125 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Oh, of course, Utaku Masanori-sama.\" Chiyoko was still shocked at the situation, but didn't wish to let it slip through her grasp. So, she stood and bowed to her (many) superiors, and went to escort Masanori from the table. \n\nAs soon as they got out of earshot and Moshi Mai started speaking of her background, Chiyoko let out a sigh and relaxed a little bit more. \"I think she's still oblivious to us,\" She whispered. \"At most, I think _she_ thinks that I have a simple crush on you, and I think she's just humoring me. In a kind way, believe it or not. That woman...\" \n\nChiyoko shook her head, and focused on the task at hand: getting an esteemed samurai (and her lover) into her quarters. \n\nThe quarters themselves were humble, as expected of Chiyoko: She had a simple bed, a nice wooden desk, and stand for her daisho and her _tsurugi,_ as well as a stand for her armor. Spare clothes were carefully folded, as few as they were, and she kept the place smelling clean with a little incense. \n\nWhat made it rather remarkable were the scores of origami figurines that were carefully arranged on her desk and in other places. Dragons, Mantises, Unicorns, and a bevy of other animals and people were arranged in different colored paper, adding some much-needed color to the room. Though, purple was a color that overtook even green. \n\n\"This is my room,\" Chiyoko said, ushering Masanori in, \"I hope you like it.\" She slid the door closed, but not before looking out into the hall. Empty. \n\n\"I feel like I haven't spoken to you since winter.\" She smiled warmly, fidgeting with her hands. \"You've been busy, I know, and with such dangers... Still, I wish I could have seen you after the incident, instead of now.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The chance to rise from the table, fine though spread was, came as a welcome relief to Masanori. It felt good to be back on his feet and better still to be making a swift escape from the dining hall. That his departure was on the heels of one he had come to cherish so well only made the opportunity all the sweeter. He did pause to offer his ear to his lover's whispered words, of course, though he found his brows scrunching in response to them. The idea that Moshi Mai would be so oblivious to their shared love seemed unlikely, to say the least. Perhaps Chiyoko's assumption was correct: that her employer believed their romance was a one-sided fancy on the part of humble ronin, who found herself smitten with a man many times her station. \n\nThe thought grated at him just as much as her treatment at the dinner, but it was for the best. For as much as he hated putting on airs, having his feelings for the wave-woman wielded as a weapon against him was all the worse. \n\nA swiftly parted shoji brought him from the proverbial viper's den of a strange embassy and into a place of comfort. Chiyoko's room was... Charmingly fitting. Most of the space seemed dedicated to storing her weapons and armor, with little in the way of creature comforts to ease her time spent within. The fragrance that lingered was at once new and dear to him—he had caught notes of it on hair or clothing during their more intimate moments, and the association with his beloved could only endear him toward it. \n\nNot that it was alone in its endearing qualities. The familiar sight of intricately folded paper positioned all across the room brought a smile to his lips. How many such figurines had he tucked away in his austere quarters, serving as a covert reminder of his ferocious little ronin when they were apart? The color was not lost upon him either. Even if he were to discount the shapes she had chosen to weave her crafts into, it was clear that her mind had not drifted far from him in turn as she labored over the parchment.\n\nHer words shook him from his reverie, and he found himself nodding absentmindedly in reply. There were a thousand words he wished to offer her in return, to tell her that he had missed her so dearly as well. But words often failed him where action did not, and so he chose to act instead.\n\nTurning on his heel, Masanori reached for the bashful warrior before him. His fingers, course and iron-like though they tended to be, brushed across her cheek as he cupped her face in a single hand. There was the gentleness of pressure to tilt her head up, and a single step forward to close the distance between them so he might claim her lips for his own. The kiss to follow was warm and gentle and loving all. As he held it—as he held *Her*—he found himself lost in the passion of the exchange. By the time he felt the urge to break apart, his breath had long left him. \n\n\"Apologies, my love,\" His voice finally returned, the Utaku allowed his forehead to press against her own as he spoke, \"I have wanted to do that all night. These past few days, I desired nothing more than your company.\"\n\nThe hand that had so tenderly caressed her joined its mirror in reaching down to take up Chiyoko's own.\n\n\"I... Hope I did not worry you too terribly. It was never my intention for you to even know something had gone amiss. Much of that day evaded my intentions.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "As he often did, Masanori disarmed Chiyoko of any doubt and defeated her unhappiness in a single blow. Even when she was not a ronin, she did not like to be touched. She would often slap people's hands off of her, friend (or even fiance, in a few instances) or foe alike. But Masanori, much like many of the things she did and didn't do, made an exception. \n\nShe eagerly returned the kiss, and it was just as familiar as always, but also felt as dazzlingly new all at once. Her eye was closed, and she stopped worrying about listening to passersby. Part of her _wanted_ to be caught, in a selfish, proud way. 'Come and see who deems me worth loving,' she would say, presenting the prestigious, handsome Masanori-kun. \n\nIt was that thought that muddled her mind when Masanori broke their kiss, and for a moment she was lost to her surroundings. \"Oh, no, darling,\" She managed, \"I understand, truly.\" She pressed her head to his, and wrapped her arms around him, holding him snugly. \"You're an important man, after all. I'd be a fool to think I could have you run on a ronin's schedule. \n\n\"However...\" Chiyoko took one hand and punched Masanori in the side. Not hard enough to do anything but be felt, nothing more. \"You made me worry _more,_ since I found out about what happened secondhand! Foolish Masa-kun, a woman doesn't want to be in the dark about such things, she wants to know as soon as possible so she can offer aid. Like slaying that bastard that would dare to hurt a child and my beloved...\" A little fire roared in her eye, but in a blink, it was gone. \n\n\"All the same, Masa-kun, all is forgiven. Just... Please, don't hide it next time? How was I supposed to thank you properly for trying to find my _tsurugi_ if I didn't know you went through the trouble?\" She smiled warmly, and leaned upwards to kiss him. \"So, what else have you been up to? I've got my own news, but I wish to hear yours first.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The comfort of being so close to the object of his affection blinded Masanori to the anger she might have felt... Until she jabbed him in the side, at least. His brow furrowed despite its presence against her own, and his lips curled downwards into the slightest showing of a frown. It was a mercy that she seemed to be in good spirits about the entire affair and not swept up in the fury she so often found herself in. Perhaps the fact that both the blades eventually ended up on her sword rack contributed to that. Or that he had managed to come out of the idiotic exchange with little more than a sore back and some bloodied knuckles. \n\n\"You need not thank me, my love. I did not venture into the Leatherworker's Quarter because I wished for a reward. I could not allow myself to sit idly by knowing somebody had stolen blades meant for you. That the swords eventually ended up in your hands—that they might bring you the joy they were intended to—is more than enough for me.\"\n\nA lifetime of meeting trials and tribulations with stubborn independence and bullish tenacity had made regretting his actions a difficult thing. The thought of them changing places, and his beloved Chiyoko being so callously thrown through a building by a simpering shugenja helped. It would have taken the appearance Osano-wo himself to prevent Masanori from throttling the boy until all life left his eyes if such a thing had come to pass.\n\nThere were better things to speak of, though. While the days that followed had not been full of pleasantries, they were easier to stomach than reckless shugenja raining lightning from the skies.\n\n\"Dealing with the fallout, primarily. In the wake of the incident, I took a contingent of ashigaru to the Phoenix embassy to shock some sense into them. The ambassador took umbrage with the words I used. When it reached Utaku Kazuko-sama that the Phoenix had not only endangered her subordinates but called her conviction into question? She demanded satisfaction in the form of a duel. I was not in attendance, but I am told the Ide's ronin girl made a good accounting of herself and overcame their ambassador in the following bout.\"\n\nHis arms wrapped just a little tighter around his beloved as he continued, as it was not the matter of political posturing that had eaten up much of his time in the interim. Something of far greater consequence than a duel to first blood weighed on his mind.\n\n\"As for me? I have been preparing our soldiers. There will be a joint-training exercise held between the Unicorn and Crane soon enough. I need to prepare them for the war to come. Silver's war.\"\n\nThe being had loomed in his memory since the day he delivered the pitiable hinin girl to their doorstep and demanded their aid. He had given the enigmatic creature his word, and they did not strike him as the type to forget a promise.\n\n\"I committed myself to their cause in return for the girl's life. She was too far gone for even your employer to bring back by the time I delivered her broken body to the *House of Delights*. So I demanded Silver work their magic, and prove to me that they were truly worthy of my assistance in bringing the city to heel. They delivered her to me in perfect health.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"You're much too modest, Masa-kun.\" Chiyoko felt oh so very special in the moment, hearing that someone went through all that trouble -and a wall- for her sake. It was certainly unnecessary, but that didn't stop her from feeling like the Emperor's daughter, a noble Samurai returning her prize as a declaration of love. \"All the same, you have my thanks. And thank you for helping Agasha no Remiki Kenzo. He's been good to me. Even if he seems to enjoy pestering me with incessant questions and implications.\" \n\nShe was also glad, but not surprised, of Atsuko's success. She was young, but she was a brilliant duelist. Truly, while Chiyoko learned much in five years as a ronin, the young woman that spent her entire life as one was all the more skilled for it. She was glad they two were friends and not enemies. \"I'll have to congratulate Atsuko-san, next I see her,\" The ronin commented. \n\nThe topic of Silver-sama and their war was disheartening. \"I do not trust them,\" The ronin said flatly. \"They work for their own means, of course, and they have yet to break any of the promises they've made, but I can't help but wonder how long this will be that way. And I don't like the thought of you having to fight their battles for them, either.\" The woman's frown was clear, a lover's worry clear. \"You had better call on me, please. I have no doubts in your ability, but I prefer to be at your side in battle than hear about it later.\" \n\nLastly, the girl. \"Ah, Kiyoko, yes? Moshi-sama told me about her. I know you don't care for her, but she spoke very highly of you and that moment. I can't say I wasn't moved at the imagery of you rescuing some poor child, you know. I may have asked her to recite the story a few times, blast my 'poor memory...' The ronin blushed, but shook her head to focus. There wasn't time nor privacy to do such things. \"But, I'm so proud of your actions, my love. If the Unicorn take the city and you remain here, it would be in good, just hands.\" \n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "\"There is nobody in this world who does not work for their means: not even samurai. It is just that our means are more easily understood than those of... Whatever Silver may be.\"\n\nIt was impossible to say just how self-serving their criminal associate truly was. The types that fancied themselves shadowy manipulators were never direct as a general rule, and it was as easy for the type without morals or a code of honor to play whichever tune best suited their purposes at a given point. That was why he forced their hand in the first place. It was easy to ply honeyed words to deceive, but a much harder thing to back those words up action. Whether or not there was actual virtue backing the strange being's intentions, he could not say, but so long as he made his stance clear—that the Unicorn would only provide their valuable assistance so long as they behaved as such—then perhaps the truth of the matter did not matter.\n\nNot so long as Silver still needed them, anyway.\n\nThe slightest hint of color filled Masanori's cheeks at his lover's insistence on praise. When put that way, it did sound rather heroic. Of course, when most people found out the child he had labored so hard to rescue had been nothing more than a simple hinin, they would likely find it to be a less glorious feat. It certainly hadn't *Felt* Heroic in the moment. But... If it managed to impress his Chiyoko so, then perhaps it was not so bad to accept praise arising from the act. It might not have made him feel like a pillowbook protagonist at the time, but there was a profound satisfaction to be had in knowing his actions had managed to do some small sliver of genuine good in a city otherwise cloaked in darkness. \n\n\"I can only hope the hinin of the district see it that way. They were nearly led to riot by the Isawa's callousness. Shinjo Inadoma-san managed to calm them with promises of justice while I spirited the girl away for aid. They may be the lowest of the low, but they are essential to the running of this city: the streets would overflow with filth and bodies by week's end if they were to rise in rebellion.\"\n\nA soft sigh followed. Like so many mistakes made by clans other than his own, cleaning up the mess fell upon his shoulders.\n\n\"I intend to extend some kind of aid to them in the weeks to come, once things have settled and I can leverage my ties with some of the other clans. It is far harder for the Scorpion to raise objections to efforts led by a coalition, as opposed to just the Unicorn.\"\n\nIt occurred to him only then that he had taken much of the space between them with his own words. Such was the way of it when he found himself with Chiyoko. The comfort her presence provided tended to loosen his tongue.\n\n\"But what of you? Surely you have not been hiding in your room folding tiny unicorns in my absence.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"The hinin are much more forgiving than any Samurai.\" Chiyoko pondered the best way to word her thoughts, never being good at such things. \"That is to say, there are wise Samurai that look at all the angles of a problem, but many do not. The peasantry tend to remember those that do the right thing, and value merit over status or anything else. As long as they are fed, that is. Traveling as much as I did in the last five years, I've learned that villagers fear the ronin they don't know, but they'll remember fondly the ones that aided them. I'm sure word's gotten around about you saving that girl, and the hinin? They'll remember that. Just as much as they'll remember the Isawa that maimed her.\"\n\nIt was good to hear that aid was coming to the hinin, in some shape or form, and it was a good move for the Unicorn to make as a whole. \"Wise thinking,\" Chiyoko praised. \"You should speak with Moshi Fujiko about this; her clinic is free to the peasantry, and she would be eager to help as much as she could, no doubt. I'd probably go with her for protection, so we may see each other sooner than later.\" Wishful thinking, honestly. And not much of a date, unless they got dinner afterwards. \n\nThe ronin furrowed her brow when she was teased about her little unicorns. \"I just needed the practice,\" She lied, slightly pouting. \"Unicorns are just the most _complicated_ shape to make.\" She crossed her arms, but her protest surrendered rather quickly. \n\n\"...I have been busy,\" She explained, \"But not near as dangerously as yourself. Mai-sama has kept me close, ever since we broke our ties with the Scorpion. I've had to split my duty of protecting my ambassador with watching Moshi Fujiko as well, in case of retaliation. I wouldn't put it past them, since Bayushi Kaori...\" She looked up at her Unicorn, a little sheepishly. \"Please, do not get angry, as it's all said and done, but she attempted to attack Moshi Fujiko in the middle of the night. It was a mock attack, mind you! But she technically 'killed' me in the process of my defense. If she wasn't unarmed, I would have cut her down right then and there.\" Chiyoko gripped her arms tight, but halted herself from getting angry over past events. \n\n\"She said my employer agreed to this, but Mai-sama was adamant that she was under the impression Kaori was going to test my mettle in a spar, not in an ambush against her daughter. The way she almost crushed Fujiko-sama to death in her worried hug told me she wasn't lying. Mai-sama would never put her daughter in harm's way, no matter how thuggish she may be.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The warmth in Masanori's cheeks had been from a rare showing of bashfulness at first. It may have remained that way, had his lover's tale stopped at only the mention of her duties. He could never fault her for adhering to her vow to the Mantis and protecting Mosh Fujiko who, by all accounts, was a kind young woman worthy of defending. But she continued beyond that and described the actions of an unfortunately familiar Scorpion. The heat he felt shifted from that of embarrassment to anger as he listened to her telling of events. \n\nIt was unacceptable. A *Mock* Attack on the daughter of an ambassador? Where she *Pretended* To kill her bodyguard—the woman he loved—in the attempt? The little whore could paint it however she pleased, but he saw it for what it was.\n\n\"I do not doubt Moshi-san's claim, much as I have made my distaste for the woman and her methods known. With that timing? Bayushi Kaori doubtlessly meant to send a message with her little stunt: that she is neither incapable nor unwilling to threaten Moshi-san's family if the political situation degrades further.\"\n\nAnd in doing so, threaten Chiyoko's life. The very thought set him alight. That the feeling was not unfamiliar only made to worsen his rage. He had been hundreds of miles away and a decade younger when a Scorpion's blade nearly stole Kazuko from him. It was only by the mercy of the Fortunes themselves that she had managed to survive the encounter, lessened by it though she was. He had been powerless to help his older sister, a boy of fourteen at the edge of the world who learned of the attempt days after the fact.\n\nHe was a boy no longer. He would not allow the scum that profaned the very word *Samurai* With their existence to steal another from him. To even *Attempt* To steal them. \n\n\"Do not lower your guard around that woman. No matter how much she plays at being an ally or a friend. If she so much as looks at your strangely, you tell me and I'll, I'll——\"\n\nHe only realized his grip had tightened when cold filled his knuckles in place of blood. The fury that burned within his eyes disappeared behind weary lids. A centering breath later, he reopened them, as steely as they had ever been.\n\n\"I will see the problem solved. Permanently so.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Masanori...\" \n\n\nChiyoko looked distressed. She shouldn't have brought up that night, and as soon as she spoke of it she felt that sensation of sheer regret. She gently gripped his arms, trying to find a way to quell that fury in his eyes. Admittedly, she shamefully enjoyed it; to think a man could be so incensed on her behalf, a lowly ronin like her... But, she couldn't let her lover's night be ruined. \n\n\"Masanori.\" Her hands gripped his arms a little tighter, and she looked up, trying to get him look into her eye for a moment. \"Please, calm your heart. I love that you're angry for me. Just as I was angry on your behalf. But please, not tonight.\" Gently, she moved her hand to his, and guided it to rest on her heart. \"Bayushi Kaori was arrested, if the rumors are to be believed. According to what I've learned, she was treated like a common criminal, locked in a cell. She will be punished, no doubt about that. And because of that and what she told Mai-sama, my liege broke off the alliance, along with other things. Because of the Scorpion and their foolishness... I get to be closer to you than ever.\" \n\nChiyoko smiled, a little, crooked, but earnest smile. \"I love that you would defend my honor, beloved Masanori, but you cannot deal with her. If anyone will deal with her... It will be me. I told her myself; the next time she raises a blade to me or the ones I care about, I'll kill her. Besides, you can't show your hand like that. If people found out you went after her for this, knowing how much you despise Mai-sama, they'll start to think more about it all. And the last thing I want is for your life to get more difficult.\" \n\nShe pressed his hand firmly against her chest, so he could feel her heart pulse within. \"So, save your rage, Masanori. She got me once, never again. Besides, some good came of it.\" Chiyoko chuckled, a little scoff. \"Mai-sama has been a lot nicer to me. I got a raise for taking the 'deadly blow' for her daughter, and said she loved me deeply for my service... Or, I think that's what she said. She was crying quite a bit and Fujiko-sama was groaning about the death grip...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Masanori's rage still burned. It was a palpable thing, a poignant reminder of the need to master himself such that the blaze within could not be allowed to lick at the world around him. Chiyoko's words of comfort were a sweet thing, and he appreciated them for what they were, but the nagging worry, the indignity was not so easily quenched. He knew his lover to be a ferocious warrior and skilled sword besides, but so did the Scorpion. That was why they conducted their battles as they did. They could not win honorably, so they cast aside their morals and struck in the night, be it in a city garden or a noble's tent. \n\n\"I would happily let them know, let them cluck and gossip, if it meant keeping you safe,\" It felt unbecoming, to admit how much she meant to him in so few words, but in the safety of Chiyoko's humble quarters, in their private little world, he did not care, \"You matter more to me than the whispers of some sniveling paper-mites.\"\n\nAs his fingers rested on his lover's chest, he bid that the fires retreat. He could not turn back time and place himself between her and the Bayushi that meant to vex her. To torture himself over it would do no good. Allowing the Scorpion to taint any more of his night with their schemes only furthered their foul cause, and distracted him from the tender moments he had yearned for all night. His fingers traced upwards, feeling the lines of her collarbone and the softness of her throat as they made their way back to cup Chiyoko's jaw. With effort, his expression softened.\n\n\"I am glad it led to Moshi-san coming to value you as you deserve if nothing else.\"\n\nMasanori's thumb ran thoughtfully across her cheek as he considered what else could be spoken of to replace such a disdainful topic. There was plenty to choose from, though surrounded by papercraft as they were, his thoughts drifted towards a matter whispered of in the afterglow of one of their more intimate nights together.\n\n\"What became of your letter to your family? Were you able to see it sent to the Mirumoto lands without difficulty?\"\n\nIt had been a topic of great consternation for his beloved, and he had encouraged her to find her nerve and send the missive all the same. Whether she had done so or received a response in kind, he could not say. But he would weather the storm with her regardless, just as he had promised those many weeks before. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Breath caught in Chiyoko's throat at Masanori's claim. Surely, it was just a man speaking romantically, not the truth... And yet, not once had he lied to her. She felt herself unable to keep her eye on him, far too bashful at the proclamation. He meant it. He would risk his honor on her. It really shouldn't surprise her, and yet she found herself shocked and feeling warm in the cheeks. She couldn't speak, and only nodded so the man knew his lover had heard him, and understood. \n\nGently led to look back at him by the cupping of the cheek, she managed to smile, hoping it would help calm the Unicorn. Luckily, the change of topic _definitely_ would, especially when he saw the way her eye went wide with surprise. \"Oh! Yes, how could I forget about that?!\" The ronin broke the closeness, hurrying over to her desk. \"After speaking to you, I was still rather scared of the prospect, but a fellow ronin named Atsuko-san urged me to go, and went as far as to come with me to the Dragon Embassy. And when I got there...\" \nChiyoko returned to Masanori's side, presenting a letter, refolded and well-cared for. \"My mother, Mirumoto Chikako... She wrote to _me._ She's been sending letters out to all the major cities, hoping it may find me. She _wants_ to know me, Masa-kun.\" Chiyoko was smiling, but it was clear she was trying not to get too emotional over it all. \"I never would have guessed, but she really, truly, cares for me. Please, take a look!\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "There was a lingering moment of doubt when Chiyoko voiced her journey to the embassy. A time when Masanori braced himself for the bad news to follow. That they had not allowed her into the grounds. That there was no contact to speak of. Perhaps worst than either, there *Was* Word from her parents, but it was nothing less than the scorn they had shown her when they cast her out as an exile. \n\nThat doubt melted away as his beloved returned to his side, and with it a tension in his shoulders that he had not quite realized he held. The smile on her face was infectious even before the carefully kept parchment was handed off to him. With all the delicacy of a father handling a newborn babe, he unfolded the letter and let his eyes drift down the page. The words within were... Warm. Warmer than most all of the letters his mother had sent him over the years, certainly. The news itself was less than ideal of course. Her father's ailing health was nothing to celebrate, even if the reason attributed to it was the strain of having lost a child he still held love for. Perhaps the burden on his heavy heart would yet be lifted.\n\n\"This is wonderful, my love,\" Masanori's hand came to rest on the small of Chiyoko's back as he finished reading the heartfelt missive, offering it back to her with his other once he had committed the last words to memory, \"They seem eager to hear from you in return. Have you thought to write them a letter in return? I can only imagine all the things you wish to tell them.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Chiyoko was eager for Masanori to finish the letter, so she could both put it back for safekeeping, and also gush about the contents some more. \"Isn't it? She even sent me some koku, though I hardly need it. But, the fact that she would do so means so much to- wait, if she's been sending these out randomly, some bastard has been pocketing my mother's coin! Such a coward will have to face me when-\" \n\nThe zealous ronin realized how emotional she was getting. It was easier to be unmasked in front of Masanori, but she didn't want to be completely unhinged, either. Thankfully, his question got snuck in there, and it was able to calm down the fiery Chiyoko. \n\n\"Oh, yes. I wrote her back immediately, as soon as I finished reading her letter. I told her everything. That I missed her and father, that I wish my sweet little brother good fortune, I told her my journey, and who I've seen, what I've done. What I failed to do, all of it. \n\n\"I... Spoke of you.\" She blushed, tapping the tips of her fingers together. \"I didn't use your name, of course. I wouldn't want to make you trouble. But, I told her that I love you. And that you were kind to me, and that you were like a gentle war stallion and I was your stubborn goat that gave you companionship... Don't tell anyone that last part, or else.\" Chiyoko chuckled, and hesitated for a moment. \"I... Also told her that I intend to regain my family name. I joined the Iaijutsu tournament the Crane are putting on. Duelists from all over the realm will be there, and I intend to defeat every one of them until all that stands above is myself and Niten. I'm hoping that, if I can prove myself against the best in the realm, it may just show Father and the Dragon that I can control my fury, and I can honor my ancestors and the technique passed down our line. \n\n\"And... Maybe, if they give me back my name... I could... Well...\" Chiyoko was beyond flustered, and her face was turning red. \"Do... Do you think, if I was in good standing... Could... Would your family...\n\n\"Um. Let me marry you?\""
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Masanori listened intently as his love explained all that she had done. That she had spoken of him in her letter was... An interesting thing to hear. Not that he particularly opposed the idea—though hearing that she referred to him as a *Stallion* To her mother caused his cheeks to darken slightly—but because he considered just how difficult doing the very same would be for him. How could he possibly explain his relationship with Chiyoko to his mother? He had never known her to be a particularly gentle soul. Not when he was still young enough to warrant such treatment and certainly not decades later as a man grown. \n\nWould she understand the love he felt for his ferocious little mountain goat? Would she even bother to chastise him? Or would he simply be drawn away from the city and stationed far from the object of his affection, an exile in all but name for daring to besmirch their family's impeccable honor. It was impossible to say. If there was mercy in Utaku Reika's heart, the fact that he had not already been exchanged to another family or clan as part of a marriage pact had surely exhausted long ago. For how much longer he would even enjoy such mercy was a matter of debate as well: Kazuko made the authority their mother entrusted her with very clear when she arrived in the city. \n\nHis darkening thoughts nearly took him away from Chiyoko's tale, but he kept himself attentive throughout. Her plan to conquer the city's iaijutsu competition to prove herself worthy of her name was an ambitious one to be sure, but not one that seemed out of place for her. It was her fiery nature that drew him to her in the first place, and he expected nothing less. What he did *Not* Expect was for the topic of conversation to suddenly shift towards the very thing he had struggled to pry his mind away from moments before.\n\n\"I...\"\n\nHis expression hardened somewhat. How could he express his thoughts when faced with such an earnest, flustered face before him? How could he explain his misgivings without horribly wounding the woman he cared for so deeply?\n\n\"I cannot say for certain. My mother, she is a... Difficult woman. All the women in my family are difficult at times, truthfully. It often feels as though she sees me more as a subordinate than a son. As such, the subject of marriage has rarely arisen between us. I could not say whether her leniency in finding a bride is out of some respect for my desires—such that I might find a suitable bride of my own choosing—or to simply secure a superior match in the future.\"\n\nIt was an unsatisfactory answer for an unsatisfactory situation. For all his fearlessness in battle, Masanori could not shake the sinking feeling in his stomach. That it would disappoint Chiyoko. Perhaps worse, it would crush her hopes and discourage her from that line of thinking. He couldn't forgive himself if that were the case. She had opened herself up to him and expressed such a beautifully innocent desire. \n\nHe had to make himself known. For what felt like the hundredth time that evening he reached to seize his lover's hands and thread his fingers through her own. Holding them with all the tenderness he could muster the Utaku boldly locked his gaze with her own.\n\n\"But in that, I speak of my family and not myself. Nothing would make me happier than marrying you, Chiyoko, and nothing could stop me from seizing the opportunity to make you my wife. Even if I had to move heaven and earth to see it done—I would do so without hesitation. I love you too much not to try.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The look on Masanori's face said it all. He really was a kind man, to even bother to try and find the best thing to say. Chiyoko's eye drifted away, looking over at the many unicorns on her desk, trying to focus... Elsewhere. \n\nShe really was stupid, wasn't she? She really had been a cocky fool to just blurt out such a thing to demand an answer. Something that she _knew_ he couldn't answer, nor could he just ignore. The games the heart played were cruel, at times, and crueler still when one was the person making the move. \n\nAs he spoke, she just listened. Naturally, his answer was careful. Not a yes, not a no. A maybe was just as potent as a no, in the ronin's mind, and she was more than ready to assume a no, over a yes. And of course, an Utaku male was in a precarious position that most women found themselves in, depending on the family. \n\nBut, just as Chiyoko had thought just a moment ago, Masanori was very kind. And when he declared that he would do whatever it takes to win her hand, she believed him. He would. _If_ it was up to him. If only.\n\n\"You, Utaku Masanori,\" Chiyoko said, \"Are very kind.\" She smiled, looking back at him, and she pressed her lips to his. \"I'm sorry for asking that. It was wrong to do that. There are no promises in this world other than death. Not even love holds that power.\" She rested her head on his chest, and took a deep breath. \"I will never ask something like that of you again. Seeing you try to find a way to spare my heart... I love it, but it is a greedy thing to take. So... Just, rest easy, good man. I'll just have to find the answer myself. I'll duel the horde itself if I have to, but you _will_ be mine.\" She tightened her grip on his clothes, as if to let go was to lose him forever. \n\n\"Now... Maybe I can siege _you._ The music is loud, and they're heavy in drink. A perfect time to move against you, don't you think?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "When he was still but a boy, Batuhan would often tease him about his empathetic nature. He was a bleeding heart in a world where there was no such room for it, the rough-and-tumble Moto would insist. Perhaps there was some level of truth to it. Masanori had been the one to so carefully deflect his lover's innocent request, yet the weight of it seemed to hang heavier on him than it did her. Perhaps it was for the best that it remained so. The only thing worse than reconciling with the reality of their love's uncertain future was knowing it ate at her as it did him.\n\nHer gestures brought him comfort all the same. The softness of her kiss, and the feeling of her head against his chest... And the suggestions that followed her tight embrace. The Utaku could not help but offer her a small, conspiratorial smile, his eyes growing smoky as he rumbled in response.\n\n\"Hmhm... That sounds like a wonderful idea, my love,\" His hands drifted their way down across her sides, fingers enjoying the softness of the garment she wore so well, \"I must confess: since I first laid eyes on this evening, I have not been able to draw my thoughts away from your outfit. The only thing I have wanted to do more than admire how beautiful you look in it is to peel it off and savor what is beneath.\"\n\nAs was his way, Masanori allowed his hands to demonstrate his desire, gliding around to tug at the knot of her obi while he craned his neck to pepper his beloved with kisses, from cheek to chin and lower still. He could not yet call her his bride, but that did not mean the passion he held for her—the desire he felt—was any lesser for it. \n\n\"Let me make good on my word tonight, my love. Let me demonstrate my *Sincerity* And treat you as I would my wife.\"\n\n``` Scene ```\n\n||"
}
] | 503.5 | 8,466 |
465.019608 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "It was just on the cusp of evening, and the Mantis Embassy was actually quiet for once in the ad-nauseum cleaning, cooking, and prepping for thier honored guests, the Unicorn Clan. The invitation had been for Utaku Kazuko to invite anyone from her Clan, and when the guest list arrived back at the embassy, Moshi Mai realized she might have overextended. \n\nBut, that was normal. Overextension was her creed, it felt like. She worked well under pressure, anyways. Even if it came with a lot of yelling. \n\nShe wasn't yelling now, out in the courtyard of the embassy to greet their guests and escort them into her home. She looked the part of a gracious host: She wore her hair up, held in place with the pearl-topped hairpin gifted to her by Ide Kenza. She wore her favorite kimono, a commissioned work by Bayushi Manami, which showed off a \"Modest\" Amount of Mai's better assets, a Mantis green ensemble with hints of orange to mark her family. \n\nHer daughter, Moshi Fujiko, was similarly dressed up, her long hair let loose but carefully combed. She was rather giddy to meet all these new people, and wondered if she'd get to see Shinjo Temujin again, She made a point to stand where she could watch Moshi Kana; she had a theory, and she wanted to see if it was concrete. \n\nChiyoko... Was nervous. She was actually dressed up as well, on orders from Moshi Mai. 'If you look like a usual war dog, they'll think we're expecting you to have to fight or something,' Mai had said. So, katana left in her room, she only carried her wakizashi in her obi, and stood in a new kimono along with the others. It was a muted green color, modest, but pretty enough. Her hair was too plain to do anything fancy with, so it was pinned back out to show her face a bit more, which was powdered and rosied. She was given some eye makeup to draw less attention to her 'unsightly' eyepatch, and her lips were painted, too. She felt like a geisha. A tempermental, nervous geisha. The reason for her nerves? Well, he'd show up soon enough. \n\n\"Now, my fellow Mantis... And dogs,\" Mai announced, \"Remember: This is imporant. Not just to making a good impression, but to making sure we're aligned with the right Clan. We've made a bold move, and we need to make sure _this_ bold move is successful. Otherwise, we're going to have ourselves a hard time in the city.\" \n\n\"You can count on me, Okaa-san,\" Fujiko declared, \"I won't embarass the Moshi name!\" \n\n\"I like the Unicorn, Mosh-sama,\" Chiyoko said, \"So it should be no issue on my side.\" \n\n\"Good. As for the rest of you \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana had been frantically helping with the preparations at the embassy with the hopes of making sure she had enough time to prepare herself for the party. For a formal clan function, she had deigned to follow Mai's lead and had a kimono made that was green with notes of orange, rather than her usual. The new one still had a slit along the side, exposing what she had been told would be a tasteful amount of her leg. She had spent almost twice as long as usual, making sure her eyes looked just right, and without the option of any hair accessories, had had opted for a set of jeweled earrings as a statement piece.\n\n\"Of course, Moshi-sama. I've great admiration and respect for the Unicorn.\" She smiled, though there was just the slightest hint of nervousness behind it. \"I think we've all done wonderful work to give them a reception that Lady Sun herself would approve of,\" She spoke, making sure to recognize everyone's contributions. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Elegance. Beauty. Grace.\n\nSuch were the descriptions of the Utaku Battle Maiden in popular writings. The iconic imagery of the armored warrior atop her beloved steed silently charging into battle against enemies innumerable, the stoic poise in the face of danger, the entrancing near-dance of their weapons as they brandished them in the name of Clan and Champion. This is what the respected and feared women of the most decorated branch of the Unicorn armies were glamorized as.\n\nIt was all horseshit.\n\nWar was not beautiful. Thrilling at times, yes; but cold, uncaring, and brutally vicious. It was not poise or composure that brought the onset of calm, only grim determination of what must be done. The blur of death that was the Battle Maiden's blade may have appeared entrancing, yet the movements were borne from the sobering knowledge that only one would leave the battlefield alive. There was glory and honor to be had, but only after the dust settled and the survivors trudged home. These were the realities a taisa of the Shiotome: dark, hard truths.\n\nToday, though, Kazuko led her delegation up the courtyard of the Mantis Embassy striving to live up to every bit of the stories. She had opted against the traditional headdress her mother gave her for extremely formal occasions, her hair elaborately styled into many flowing braids as was the old Ujik tradition. She wore her finest spring kimono that was not a design one would wear to court. The *Fuji* Color palette allowed expression of clan without seeming too stiflingly formal—layers of purple, white, and green which while appropriate for the season might also have seemed conspicuously connected to the event tonight. After having the adjustments made at Flowing Designs, the garment now fit perfectly, displaying just enough of Kazuko's neck and shoulders without seeming inappropriate.\n\nAs she approached seemingly serene with Fuyuko aside and behind her—also dressed in her best, though a far simpler and more clan leaning purple and gold—internally Kazuko was all nerves. The eldest daughter of a daimyo didn't simply get invited to dinner parties unless there was a secret agenda. The taisa of the Shiotome didn't attend the raucous events of the soldiers under her command. How exactly did one *Enjoy* A party? The concept was foreign to a woman who had never experienced such a thing before.\n\nShe came to a halt at the appropriate distance between herself and the welcoming committee from the Mantis, casting a searching eye over them. The Ambassador seemed every bit as impressive as she heard, and Fuyuko was right about her. Then there were a few Mantis she did not know, and the ronin Chiyoko. Kazuko was surprised the ronin was invited to such an important event, but not upset. It only furthered her opinion of the wave-woman's worth.\n\nCalmly, collectedly, she raised a hand to bring the rest of the entourage to a halt. Then, she bowed respectfully and began to sign. \"Ambassador Moshi Mai-san, it is a pleasure to meet you. I am Utaku Kazuko, and the woman speaking is my translator, Fuyuko-san. Thank you for your most generous offer to host our delegation this evening.\"\n\nAfter the basic pleasantries between her and the Ambassador's entourage were complete, she would then step aside for the remainder of those with her to properly introduce themselves. As the two waited waited, Fuyuko would hazard a slight glance and smile at Chiyoko.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Dinners. Functions. Politicking. Masanori was not cut out for it all.\n\nHe had suffered no end of them when he had been made to sit as the acting ambassador. The internal ones were not so bad. He could expect his clansmen to content themselves with traditional fare and a simple, intimate meeting in the Ide residence to discuss their business. But it could not be so with the other clans. Most of their esteemed fellows in the empire already scoffed at the Unicorn, considering them as little more than barbarians playing at being samurai. When meeting with the lauded scions of Doji or Akodo, it was necessary to put on airs and act as something he was not. The Mantis, they were cut from a similar cloth, that much was true. Sneered at for their foreign origins, considered little more than ambitious upstarts by polite society. His ancestors had faced much the same treatment only a few centuries prior.\n\nThere was a kinship to be built between them, but until that kinship found itself atop a strong foundation, he would not risk it with overfamiliarity. The outfit he selected for the occasion was traditional, conservative, but fine all the same—the meeting, and its nature, had been left nebulous for a reason. None quite knew how serious the words exchanged over dinner would be treated, and so it was necessary to straddle the line between casual and formal. The softness of the silk on his skin felt foreign, and the color palette stranger besides, but his serving man had insisted it was a fitting ensemble for such an event, preening over him like a mother tidying up her child. Given that the young man also had the duty of preparing his gift for the ambassador, and combing out the long, flowing mane of hair that crowned Masanori's head such that it could be worn free and long, troubling him further with matters of fashion were a cruelty the chui was not willing to inflict. \n\nAllowing dutiful Ryo to spend the rest of the night in leisure on the town in his master's absence eased his conscience well enough. It did not ease his worries, however. The trek from the Ide residence to the Mantis embassy was one spent in relative silence on his behalf, if only because he worried the restlessness he felt might bleed through in a way perceptible to his dearest sister. She seemed even more out of her element than he did, impressively enough, and so it was unlikely she would notice, but he did not want to risk putting ever greater worry upon her shoulders. Nor did he want to give her a reason to search for the cause of his worries: the less his dear sister knew of the fondness he had developed for at least one of the Mantis' retainers, the easier all of their lives would be. Part of him hoped that Chiyoko might be absent from the event entirely, to create as much distance between her and Kazuko as possible. \n\nOf course, another part hoped dearly that she would attend, and that his eyes might be treated to the sight of his beloved dressed as prettily as any courtly lady. Love truly was a sickness.\n\nIt was a credit to his training that when the moment was upon them, his worries disappeared behind a shell of discipline. He took his place to Kazuko's side, opposite Fuyuko, and put on the mien of a disciplined, stoic warrior while the leader of their party made her introduction and exchanged pleasantries with the Mantis' ambassador. When she stepped aside with her translator in tow, Masanori stepped forward, and offered a bow to their hostess.\n\n\"I am Utaku Masanori, chui to the Unicorn and Utaku Kazuko-sama's second-in-command. It is an honor and a pleasure to spend this evening in your company and that of your clansmen, Moshi Mai-san. I thank you for your hospitality.\"\n\nCrisp, clear, and formal, but it did the job well enough. His soldier's discipline also did well in keeping his eyes on the ambassador, lest they linger off to her side and cling to the figure standing there. Once his duty had been completed, he made to step aside and join his sister while the others made their introductions and offered their compliments."
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku resisted formal social occasions. She found them uncomfortable when she prefered the solitude of her cloister alone with her thoughts and shadows. It was a strange quirk for an acting courtier of her family's interests in the city - but it was what it was.\n\nRegardless, this duty was expected of her, so she would do it. She clothed herself conservatively, as was her wont to do. A demure, finely tailored pure white silk kimono wrapped around her lithe body. The obi that fit snug around her waist was of a rich emerald green. Her white wakizashi was tucked appropriately through the folds.\n\nOkiku's shimmering black hair was held up with a silver and floral kanzashi headpiece. As she was already rather pale, she needed only mild whitening. Her lips were painted a brilliant shade of blood red.\n\nAs the guests arrived, Okiku remained on the edge of the welcoming procession. It was implied by her clan to resist creeping out any of the guests with her strange mannerisms; though not in so many words, at least. She thought it best to remain somewhat aloof, yet easily on hand if was requested. Regardless, she still found it difficult to not appear as an almost spectral yuki-onni looking over the social occasion.\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin followed the Unicorn procession with his usual smooth strides, his long shoulder-length hair tied into a high ponytail which bobbed with his steps in the crisp evening air of spring. Though much of their baggage was handled by their entourage, he took care to keep watch over the goods. He might be required as the giver of gifts, after all.\n\n*Been awhile since a full-on formal party. It's not Winter Court, but there's always risks. I have to be careful with what I say and do; even giving too many gifts, however simple, puts pressure on the hosts. Fine for some moves, but not when we want them to relax and like us.*\n\nHe fussed with the sleeves of his kimono and the clasp of his furred cloak. He had acquired some simpler designs for casual gatherings, but this was the finest he owned and had conscientiously cared for since Ide-sama had gifted it to him. Its style may have been traditional rather than the subtly daring cuts of Flowing Designs, but there was artistry in its colouration. A rich violet for most of its body, which brightened to a paler shade towards the sleeves into a white trim, mirrored in its lower half, though he still wore a dark hakama with it.\n\nThe simple act brought him a measure of calm; it reminded him of simpler days. Practice dinners. Working their way up from lower stakes within the province, and finally full service beyond Unicorn lands. Not every journey smooth, or well-received, but all with the intention of peace and understanding.\n\nIt brought a smile to his face, which he allowed for himself as they walked the streets so that he could get it out of his system and better control himself later.\n\n*Ours is an Empire of masks. Motives. But an open hand and an open heart can find common ground. Ide-sama, I hope your teachings are with us tonight.*\n\nIt was a good thought. But he wasn't blind to the potential seriousness of tonight, which didn't escape his superiors. He'd have to be alert.\n\n*I wonder if Kana will be there...*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "When the Unicorn arrived, Moshi Mai was surprised. Not by their dress; she loved less traditional fashions. No, it was how _tall_ Kazuko was, and a stunner at that. Having taken a new liking to the feminine form, she was rather caught off guard. Thankfully, she was not new to keeping composed. Though, she was not necessarily great at it. \n\nAfter Kazuko finished her introduction, Mai and the rest of the Mantis (and Chiyōko) bowed in return, respectfully. \"I thank _you_ for accepting, Ambassador Utaku Kazuko-sama. It's a shame we could not meet sooner, so it's great to make up for it now.\" Mai kept her eye on Kazuko, as Chiyōko had suggested, but looked to Fuyuko separately. \"And well met to you, Fuyuko-san.\" An approving nod was given, before attention was turned to the other Unicorn. \"Now, I know Utaku Masanori-sama, and Shinjo Temujin-san. It's nice to have you here, and not for business, either. Shinjo-san has been here so often, I should have _him_ escort us to the garden!\" A little joke, a gentle tease that only pointed out there was established cordial terms. \n\nMoshi Fujiko introduced herself, bowing deeply and expressing she was glad to be making acquaintance, and paid close attention to what Temujin would do when Kana spoke next. \n\nChiyōko was quiet, introducing herself last, and trying not to look at Masanori. It was hard not to smile at the man in his nice clothing, after all. \"Welcome, Unicorn-samas,\" She said, bowing deeper than the samurai did. \"I have the honor of meeting most of you, and fighting beside one of you.\" She allowed the slightest glance at Masanori as she stood upright. \n\n\"Now that introductions are settled, I do have one last bit of ceremony before we can just dine, drink, and be merry.\" Mai looked to Fujiko, who bowed and hurried off to get things prepared. \"I would like to start things off with a tea ceremony. I know, very traditional. But, with all the chaos and stress that has come from the past months, I feel that a silent moment would benefit all of us. I will conduct it along with my daughter, while my dear guests and clansmen relax.\" Mai glanced at Chiyōko for a second before she went for the next touch, and hopes Yasuki Umeo's advice was sound. \n\n\"During that time, if it pleases you, Utaku Kazuko-sama, Chiyōko will escort Fuyuko-san to dine ahead of time, so she may easier serve when necessary during dinner proper. Chiyōko as a yojimbo will join her, as I understand they have met before. Rest assured, she'll have her place at the table proper, and a cup as well. And again, only if it is satisfactory to you, Utaku-sama.\"\n\nSo, the motion was made: have the interpreter dine ahead of time during the tea ceremony, a Samurai event oftentimes, which is traditionally done in silence. At the very least, Mai hoped that the option offered showed there was respect and accommodations being made, all while not coming off as pity. \"At the very least, she can make sure the red meat will be to your liking, Utaku-sama.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Honored Unicorn-samas, we welcome you. I am Magistrate Moshi Kana,\" She began when it came her turn to introduce herself. There was a very faint jingling from her earrings she bowed, and she smiled warmly to the entourage when she rose up once more. \"While Lady Sun makes to retire for the night, I hope she has blessed your days, and will bless this most auspicious occasion.\n\nIt immediately occurred to Kana just how *Striking* The Unicorn were. While she maintained composure, there was no denying that. The Utakus looked like something straight out of her stories. Of course, there was one who drew her attention especially. She was delighted to see her good friend Temujin, as she often was, and looked forward to being able to converse more freely later on. Of course for now, she tried to not focus too much on just how *Dashing* He looked in that fur cloak of his; rugged yet dignified. Paying mind to formality, though, she left it at letting her gaze meet his for just a bit longer than normal.\n\nShe remained quiet and stood with the rest of the clan as Mai explained the plans for the evening. As much as she wanted to get to know the other Unicorn and talk with Temujin, some tea to help calm her nerves and make a good impression was probably the best idea. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"I too am pleased we all were able to make the time. They say the best experiences are those which one must wait for. I expect tonight to be evidence of the truth of this.\" The Ambassador, her daughter, the Magistrate from the documents she received from her agent in the field, and Chiyoko. Kazuko regarded and greeted them all in turn. She fixed the ronin with a piercing gaze. \"It is agreeable to see you again, Chiyoko-san. Your absence at our residence of late has been unfortunate. I hope the offer of a meal on your next visit was not frightening.\"\n\nTwo things were evident. One was that even Kazuko's attempts at humor were more intimidating than not. The second, known only to the three at the meeting that day, was that whether due to ignorance or intent Kazuko seemed oblivious to the harsh words used to assault the poor ronin some time ago.\n\nThe offer for a tea ceremony was interesting, but when Mai described the events which would occur concurrently therewith Kazuko understood the reasons. It was a unique solution indeed, and one far better than she had been accosted with in the past. The sort of solution an experienced diplomat would come up with. Still, the reason for bringing the translator instead of using Masanori was as much to keep the relationship between the two as veiled as possible as it was to put the Mantis on the back foot. \"Hmm. Strange that you would have such trust to place their life in the hands of this one, and then not view them worthy of partaking of the ceremony. If that is your wish, though.\"\n\nAfter a moment of what might be considered a criticizing gaze, it softened into a look of approval. Her respect for this Moshi had been elevated by the kind treatment she gave to Fuyuko as well as the dignity provided herself. She was not self-conscious about her lack of voice, but to be placed in a situation where it could have been used as a bargaining tool would have led to her immediate refusal of the rest of the dinner. \"Regardless, there is a convenience that cannot be ignored. It is rude to speak when your mouth is full, after all. A tea ceremony to bring focus and calm would be delightful, Moshi-san, especially conducted by one as skilled and graceful as yourself.\""
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin briefly measured the Mantis reception as they neared them. An impressive display of fashion and hospitality, all things considered. And seeing the familiar figure of Moshi Kana lifted his mood considerably.\n\nGreetings were exchanged, words and demeanours carefully chosen. But all courtesy aside, he did feel some contentment over the early words feeling true to each speaker.\n\nEventually, it was his turn to speak, and he was prepared. The Shinjo bowed deeply and fluidly before Moshi Mai.\n\n\"Well met, Mantis-samas. It is an honour and a delight to share dinner under your roof,\" He greeted with a warm but level tone. When he rose, he allowed his smile to go from slight to warm as a gesture of trust. \"I always look forward to my duties here, Moshi Mai-sama. And that is thanks to the warm welcomes I have received from you and yours.\"\n\nFlattery. But it was honest. He knew by now that Mai delighted in blunter, bawdier speech, but all knew this was the time for manners. He remained still in his proper position with the Unicorns, his greeting complete.\n\nThen it was Kana's time to speak, and his heart fluttered with his thoughts for a moment. Even with just a passing glance, her makeup did its job well, making her radiant smile and lively eyes stand out.\n\n*She looks good in green. That's good to know for the kimono I got for her. ...Did the cut of it always go that high-*\n\nHe stopped himself from thinking any scandalous thoughts when their eyes met. Both lingered for a moment longer before he dragged his gaze away, distracting himself by trying to interpret the symbolism of the Mantis' kimonos and accessories. He thanked the kami that he was facing forward.\n\nSomeone carefully watching his expressions, however, might find that after she spoke, his smile also remained for a few moments longer before the lips evened out into an appropriately reserved calmness.\n\nMai made her offers. And with diplomacy resuming, his mind snapped to focus on the event before them.\n\n*Tea ceremony. Good thing Ide-sama drilled that into me; I can assist if she commands it. And it gives Fuyuko-san a chance to dine ahead of us.*\n\n\nUtaku-sama was guarded, perhaps understandably so. The scout also wondered if that was the occasion Chiyoko once referred to back at the clinic. \n\nStill, he held his tongue from speaking out of turn, as much as he wanted to vouch for her; having started to grow accustomed to Kazuko's command, he had an inkling of the notion that if she had intended that as intimidation, it would have been much clearer. And being unable to freely glance where he pleased, he couldn't properly gauge her expression by anything other than the words spoken through Fuyuko.\n\n...Though he did wonder at the very back of his mind if that observation about Chiyoko's protection was dancing on the line between an insult and a compliment. Thankfully, he was not fool enough to let the thought linger.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "It was a difficult game for Masanori to manage, offering his gaze to the Mantis delegation in a way that was polite without drifting in any particularly telling direction. The desire to allow his eyes to linger could not be helped, however. His beloved did not often dress herself up so bewitchingly, and he could only imagine when the next opportunity to witness her in such a state would arise. Perhaps he could try his hand at nudging fate in such a direction at a later time, wily as he was like to be on such matters. The unbecoming thoughts did not have all that long to fester. Their hostess was quick to lay out the plans for the evening ahead, and he could not help but harden his gaze somewhat at the itinerary she had decided on. \n\nShe had gone out of her way to try and accommodate Fuyuko—something that his dear sister would undoubtedly appreciate—but in doing so robbed him of the opportunity to spend time with the one Mantis he particularly cared to speak with, to say nothing of the fact he would be made to sit through a length tea ceremony in her absence. Of course, his opinion was not the one which particularly mattered. He found himself glancing towards Kazuko, reading the motions of her fingers even as dutiful Fuyuko interpreted them for the crowd. \n\nHe hardly focused on any of it after the first few statements. '*Your absence at your residence as of late has been unfortunate*', she claimed. That his elder sister even knew of her presence at the residence in the first place made his blood run colder than it had in quite some time. That she had somehow managed to invite her to a meal beyond that? Without him being made aware of any of it? That was all the worse. It was not his way to show panic. Crises were only made worse when one gave into the instinctual rush that followed a catastrophe. The chui had trained for years to be the calm amidst the storm, a force of order and direction while there was chaos. Such training had never been quite so necessary than in that moment, where he stood unflinching, his eyes snapped forward to keep the worry in them from being noticed.\n\nPerhaps the calming tea would have value after all. If nothing else, it would give him time to comb through the multitude of horrible outcomes in his mind's eye and put the worst of them to rest.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku greeted the Unicorn with a cordial air, but it was not her place at that moment to be in the light. As such, she remained out of the way to allow her matron to see to things how she sought best.\n\n*\"I am Yoritomo Okiku,\"* She said in a soft voice when it came around to her time for introductions. She gave a formal, polite bow - well-versed in the formality of social occasions in spite of her personal preferences. *\"It is pleasant to meet our local members of the esteemed and well-traveled Unicorn.\"*\n\n*\"I am certain you have a great many intriguing tales of travels that you may regale us with,\"* She added. She kept her tone cordial, but her face cool and impassive. Still there was a hint of interest regarding other lands and the tales thereof.\n\nWhen tea was mentioned, Okiku gave a slight bow of her head. If she was not needed to remain at attention, she took the opportunity to step to the side to ensure the tea ceremony was properly arranged. Though she had confidence with the staff, she just wanted to give it that extra touch of personal attention.\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Chiyōko was a fearless one, but even then she had apprehension with responding to what Kazuko-sama said to her. All the same, she looked her superior (and the sister of her lover) in the eye when she was addressed. \"Not at all, Utaku Kazuko-sama,\" She replied, \"I shall rectify such a thought as soon as I am able.\" End with a bow, and let the Samurai talk. She wasn't the greatest one for such things, but she knew when to speak and when to stop. \n\nMai, similarly, had to do the same. Her offer was made, and there was a pause before Kazuko spoke. It felt like ages, of the shugenja was honest, and there was no telling if she offended the woman or not until she spoke through Fuyuko. \n\nThe comment was hard to place. An insult, an observation? Hard to say. But, she didn't know what to say in the moment. For a second, she thought she'd clam up. \n\nBut, Kazuko agreed to the ceremony, stating its merits. \"Indeed,\" Mai managed, \"It's always surprised me how soothing the ritual can be.\" Mai looked to Chiyōko, who gave a nod. \n\n\"Utaku-sama,\" She said, stepping forward to Kazuko, \"By your leave, I will escort Fuyuko-san. I'll see to it she returns to your side in good spirits and with a full stomach.\" She would wait for the approval before bowing, and ushering Fuyuko into the estate's servant entrance. \n\n\"Now then,\" Mai said, bringing her hands together in a single clap, \"Let us go.\" \n\nMoshi Mai led the mixed party to the gardens, making sure to go through the building. It was more practical to go around, but she didn't want to give off the idea that the Unicorn had to use the back door. Thus, they were bowed to by servants and the few posted guards as they moved from the foyer, past the dining hall (which was already set up with a proper arrangement), and to the garden, for the tea ceremony to take place. \n\n=====\n\nTea Ceremonies are elaborate things, that can go for as long or as little as possible. There were rules and etiquette for them all, but the most common one was that no one uttered a word. Silent retrospective, that was the point, a zen moment when all that can be focused on the mixture of the elements coming together. \n\nThe seating was a large round table with cushions all around, with Utaku Kazuko and Masanori sitting at the head. All the others were arranged by their respective ranks, as were the Mantis. Mai remained standing, as she had to prepare the tea. \n\nShe did so in silence, her daughter having prepared the water and selected the leaves ahead of time. In honesty, Mai wasn't nervous. She was actually good at tea ceremonies, the one thing she excelled in during her schooling. Picking the correct leaves, the right grind, the water temperature, somehow it all made sense to her. \n\nSo, without a sound, other than the sound of cups being placed and eventually tea poured, the Mantis Ambassador conducted the ceremony. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "With the Tea Ceremony came calm, and with calm, clarity and focus.\n\nThe events thus far played through Kazuko's mind as she sifted through the information gathered, doing her best to give her full attention to the Mantis Ambassador as she led the ceremony. The Mantis could have done any number of things to provide for Fuyuko. They could have attempted to have her not eat, or shuffled her away with the rest of the servants. Instead they cared for her in a way above and beyond, which made the choice to send Chiyoko with her all the more odd. If they cared enough for a peasant, why not a samurai? Perhaps the ronin was being punished for some bad behavior by being forced to eat with the heimin. Still, Kazuko was confident Fuyuko would at least make the dinner as pleasant as possible for the woman.\n\nThen there was the complete and utter lack of resistance to anything she said or did. Kazuko was aware her words in response to the Ambassador bordered on unseemly, in fact she counted on it to gauge the Ambassador before her. Would she be the type to have a witty comeback, or laugh it off? Even taking slight offense would have been useful information. Instead she was met with . . . Nothing? No words, only silence until she agreed to the ceremony and cleared away any doubts of her approval. Was it possible Moshi Mai, as cool, collected, and comely as she appeared, was as concerned about this meeting as Kazuko was?\n\nIt seemed unlikely. The reports of the Ambassador was that she was a shrewd businesswoman, a cunning leader, and a fierce fighter. That sort of person always had their plans airtight before moving forward, no room for doubt or weakness. Still, it could be possible.\n\nHer own samurai had comported themselves admirably. Masanori could always be counted on, comporting himself with dignity and poise despite their currently being at odds—again. The tea ceremony would do them both some good, a time to reflect and center, to see their place in the great tapestry which was Rokugan and themselves. Kazuko knew she needed it. It was harder to find calm these days than it had been during the war. Yet slowly as the ceremony continued she found herself *Relaxing* For the first time since, well, before the winter at least.\n\nEven Temujin was comporting himself well. Fuyuko had insisted he join the entourage, something about how hard he was working to build closer ties with the Mantis. A change in tune from when she first met the scout, but the woman was right. He had done much to increase the goodwill between their clans. This was an adequate reward for his faithful service.\n\nYes, everything was going well. Her people were content, the Mantis seemed content. The night was off to an auspicious start. She could only hope it would continue in this upward trend.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "For anyone who knew Temujin as more than a passing acquaintance, they could be forgiven for thinking that *Chanoyu* Would be the last place one would find him. After all, the entire process revolved around *Stillness and deliberate action with ancient tradition*.\n\nSo it might have come as a surprise to some of the gathered samurai (which they couldn't express) that he was a model guest, from the ceremonial wash to the partaking of the tea ceremony, even down to the examination of the utensils (after the guest of honour requested it, of course). Perhaps his movements weren't as fluid as they could have been, but it was clear that he had practice, and a genuine appreciation for it.\n\n\nIt certainly brought memories. Times when Ide-sama introduced the ceremony to him. Weeks and months of struggling to do everything precisely right, questioning why it must be so, when the purpose of any gathering should be the enjoyment of another's company and refreshments. But eventually, while it wasn't Temujin's activity of choice, the wily Ide had finally drilled the beauty of tea ceremony into his ward, and the many ways people found harmony in its exactingly precise traditions.\n\nFor him, that lay in being able to sit quietly in shared purpose with others. To appreciate that for this time, there was peace among his superiors and his peers. From the efforts of the Utakus and Moshi Mai, to the quiet appreciation of Yoritomo Okiku. And...\n\n*She's... Beautiful.*\n\nHe did his best to keep his focus on the tea and its serving. His mind on the moment, the movements. He hoped that outwardly, he remained entirely proper.\n\nBut the practices he had with Kaede, the ceremonies he attended where samurai would convey admiration or affection through the shared silence, were all certainly on his mind whenever he caught a glimpse of Moshi Kana.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana ended up being grateful for the tea ceremony; she wasn't completely uninformed about matters of etiquette, and knew the basic steps of the tea ceremony, but was glad she didn't have to speak or worry about things that way. She could be a silent participant and make a good impression.\n\nShe had reflected on the opportunity Lady Sun had presented with this new alliance, and the better fit. The Unicorn were more direct and in her experience, less focused on whether or not one could pull off all of the steps in the ridiculous dance the Crane had designed. She reflected on her own time in the city, the circumstances that had brought her here, and her hopes for at least doing *Something* Good for the city. She knew there was no fixing it, but at least she hoped that she would make some people's lives better than when she had first entered them, and the clan at least a little bit better than when she first arrives.\n\nShe also reflected on the gardens; the peaceful surroundings around them and how they reflected the gifts of the fortunes. The plants, the evening sky, those brilliant blue eyes of Temujin's...\n\n*Oh... He really is quite handsome... I wonder where we'll be sitting at dinner?*\n\nIn silence, she quickly looked back down, studying her cup as though it were the most fascinating thing she had ever encountered.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai felt that this had gone well. \n\nAt the very least she felt more calm about everything. Things were going fine. No big misstep, no disrespect shown (the Scorpion could take a lesson from her!), and Kazuko seemed...\n\n...It was hard to say. Without her own voice, it was hard to gauge her demeanor, and she seemed a perfect student of stoicism, showing not much in the means of tells. And that made Mai anxious. She had just made a very big move, all based on the certainty that she could form an alliance with the Unicorn. And she hinged it all on one dinner? What was she thinking, she wasn't a Crane or something that could just pull this off, and she'd have to keep putting on airs and second-guessing and her hairpin was crooked and her dress was too tight, had she gained some wieght, was it the stress or-\n\nA gentle hand touched her own, and she glanced to see her daughter, who took notice of the still, internal panic attack. She didn't say a word, but offered a smile and a nod. Mai calmed down a spell, and finished her tea. Maybe she was going about this all wrong. \n\n\"Good Samurai.\" Mai spoke, breaking the long meditative silence. \"Thank you all for allowing me to indulge in this ceremony. I pray its brougth enlightening musings to all. I certainly feel as if I reached a clarity. \n\n\"Which is why, if Utaku Kazuko-sama and Masanori-sama wouldn't mind, I wish to say something to the both of you, without the others present.\" Fujiko looked puzzled, since this wasn't part of her mom's micro-managed master plan, but merely bowed and followed the woman's order. \"I can fetch Fuyuko-san for you, mother,\" She offered. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana hid her own suprise fairly well for the most part, but those who knew her well might detect she hadn't quite been expecting this. She grounded herself in protocol, however, and rose, bowing low to Mai, and then the two Unicorn.\n\n\"As you wish, Moshi-sama.\" She then turned to address the others with a smile. \"If it please you, I will guide you to the embassy, and offer a small tour as we await dinner and for the Ambassador's business to be concluded.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The tea ceremony was a difficult thing to get through. It likely would have been regardless of the events that led up to it, Masanori's dislike for pomp and ceremony being what it was, but being made to sit without an outlet for the strife building within him made what should have been an otherwise relaxing experience anything but. It made a level of sense that his midnight rendezvous with Chiyoko had been noted. She had even made mention of nearly being caught beforehand. But by Kazuko? He could not fully believe that his elder sister would be made aware of a *Ronin* Skulking around their home in the dead of night and not respond with some level of force. \n\nYet things seemed almost amicable between her and his lover, enough so that she had even been invited to a dinner that neither had bothered to inform him of. It almost felt conspiratorial, and a pit opened in his stomach that no amount of tea could fill as he pondered just how much of his relationship with Chiyoko had been exposed to, or would be exposed by, Kazuko. He had clearly grown much too bold in the depths of his passion. Discretion would need to be exercised going forward, and to begin with that, he would need to talk to his beloved directly. He resolved to do so after the ceremony had finished.\n\nA resolution he would not be able to fulfill.\n\nThe lieutenant fought the urge to grimace at their host's invitation to privacy, for fear the sourness might make him look like a child denied a favorite toy. The party had been billed as a relaxing evening, and yet he found himself repeatedly denied the ability to relax by their Mantis hosts. It could never be said that he was not a dutiful man, however, as he rose to stand in response to Fujiko's offer.\n\n\"That will be unnecessary, Moshi-san. I am more than capable of translating for Utaku-sama in Fuyuko-san's absence. Please, allow her to finish her meal uninterrupted.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "He wasn't expecting to be excused from the tea ceremony, though he kept a cool head.\n\n*Hm. Something to see to first, right after relaxing with the ceremony. Meeting of the higher ups isn't unusual, but it could potentially set the tone for dinner.*\n\nHowever, as this was a decision beyond his standing, he could at least afford to remain aware without letting it dominate his thoughts.\n\nWith the approval of both ambassadors, he would excuse himself with a proper bow and a few words of thanks to his host, following the Mantis outside.\n\nThough his smile did grow subtly when he heard Kana offer to give them a tour.\n\n*A tour from a friend! Acting on behalf of her Clan. Right. Don't make this weird, you idiot. Do not.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Well, this was unusual. Asking for an audience with the two of them this early in the evening, especially right after the ceremony, was unexpected. Kazuko thought they would at least be wined and dined before whatever ploy the Mantis had in store was pitched at them. Was this some other strategy at play?\n\nIf the raised eyebrow could raise further when Masanori volunteered to translate it would have. It was appreciated, of course. Fuyuko deserved a little rest and relaxation after all her hard work preparing for these last few days. Still, she didn't think he would have volunteered so readily to act as her aid.\n\nStill, she nodded respectfully to the Ambassador's request before turning to acknowledge Masanori's and casting the faintest of smiles to him in appreciation. As long as he remembered to speak freely for himself and not merely act as her voice it would be fine. Once the rest of the gathered samurai excused themselves, she began. \"Moshi-san, thank you for the enlightening ceremony. What is it you wish to speak with us about?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai definitely showed surprise on her face when Masanori expressed that he could translate as necessary. The realization was rather obvious, after the fact; why wouldn't her brother know how to beat communicate with his sister? Anger didn't flair up, however. Instead, the Moshi stifled a snort of a laugh. \n\n\"Apologies, heh, I just...\" She composed herself, and placed a hand on her chest. \"If you had any idea how stressed and worried I was about the proper etiquette on how best to respect my guests in this sort of situation, you'd find it amusing, too, I'd wager.\n\n\"You see, this tea ceremony was as much to relax the guests as it is for myself; I am a woman that prefers action, so trying to put on a dinner to not just entertain but win over you, Kazuko-sama, has made me a bit of a mess.\" Mai exhaled, and hoped that this honesty would be taken well. \n\n\"I would wager a guess, Kazuko-sama, Masanori-sama, that you know that rarely is a dinner just a dinner. And that I must be up to something. And, you'd be correct. \n\n\"The Mantis Clan has abandoned the foolhardy, self-destructive campaign of the Scorpion Clan.\" Mai let it sit for a moment, before continuing. \"After the trouble caused by the Ambassador Conference, I've found myself and my Clan disrespected by the Scorpion, the Crane... But never the Unicorn. So, as our trade and our Samurai have grown closer and more willing to work together, an obvious question comes to light.\n\n\"But, I for one don't wish to beseech you. Not now, at least.\" Mai smiled, feeling relieved about being straightforward about it all. \"I am certain Masanori-sama can attest that I am not a diplomat from the times and places we've met, and my Yojimbo would be first to note she's often protecting my attackers from _me._ I'm not built for courting and politicking, and luring guests in with genuine friendship to be mucked up with my Clan wanting a strong alliance... It doesn't sit well.\"\n\nMoshi Mai bowed her head to the two of them, in apology. \"So, I ask of you, Utaku Kazuko-sama, Utaku Masanori-sama, if we can continue this evening just as two clans enjoying one's company, I swear to be the more genuine Moshi Mai, instead of the one that says what you want. The one that'd tell you that I'll do what I wish with my ronin how I see fit, the one that might joke Kazuko-sama for beating me in spectacular clothing, or might tease Masanori-sama for staring at Chiyōko-san. I know, she has a staring problem herself, but it's best not to make people think you're up to no good, Masanori-sama.\" \n\nMai raised back up, and took a deep breath. \"Well, my dear guests, what say you? Does my honesty appeal to you, or will I need to figure out what to do with all this red meat?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The Mantis' play was revealed far earlier than intended. It was a surprise to hear they split from the Scorpion, but most welcome. Sooner or later, with the nature of their work growing closer as it was, the Scorpion would prove a thorn that would have to be removed eventually. That they sought an alliance with the Unicorn so soon after their break was slightly more opportunistic and mercenarial than she liked. It was relieving then to know the Ambassador had shifted trajectory. To continue without the pressure of ulterior motives sounded delightful. These matters were aired, they knew where they stood, and could proceed with all in the open.\n\n\"Moshi-san, your honesty is heard and appreciated. It is true I had apprehensions coming here, as I believed there to be something more in play. It is agreeable to know plainly, and with this now aired we have the freedom to proceed without shadows looming over our heads.Though I doubt it will alter the actions of the rest of our delegation, rest assured I will be precisely who I am.\" The faintest hint of a smirk danced along her features. \"The type of person to bring her translator to gauge the qualities of our host.\"\n\nA brief aside would follow with Masanori, hands moving but not spoken. Words from the Ambassador had sparked her to provide a gentle reprimand to her second. *Nori-kun, kindly stop glaring at the ronin. She may not be a clan samurai but she serves well. At the very least respect the fact the two of you have worked together.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "As it had been for most of the evening, Masanori found himself relegated to the role of simply listening. There were a few pieces of information worth hearing, that much was true. The Mantis had choosing to split with the Scorpion was cause for celebration, though it certainly framed the generous invitation offered to them in a different light. It was no secret that their hosts intended to court them with the lavish banquet planned ahead of them—the Unicorn had done the very same with the Dragon only months earlier, after all, but the loss of their previous ally lent a certain urgency to the matter that might have otherwise been missing. Either the Mantis were confident enough in Unicorn cooperation that they were comfortable severing ties with the Scorpion ahead of the talks, or the Scorpion's floundering had cut them to the quick such that they were content to make a decisive choice with or without a replacement. \n\nHe did not have too long to consider which of the options it was. The ambassador's teasing caused his expression to harden all the further, his brows furrowing at the implication. Would that he could allow himself the freedom that their host claimed to desire: he might have told her right then and there that she was not the only one among them who did as they pleased with her ronin. Perhaps it would have even added some much needed amusement to an otherwise dry affair.\n\nBut such boldness was better saved for the woman herself than her direct superior. When his sister made her response, he translated for her as dutifully as Fuyuko had done before him, waiting patiently for her to finish so that he might offer his thoughts on the matter. His time to speak was snuffed away just as quickly as it arrived, however, and the scolding that Kazuko directed at him nearly caused his resolve to break. It was difficult to say whether his sister had truly missed the meaning behind the Moshi's words, or if she had simply taken to teasing him on the matter as well, but neither were especially appreciated, given his worries on the nature of their acquaintanceship as it was. \n\n\"... I will endeavor to look upon her more softly in the future, Utaku-sama, in honor of the deep respect I hold for her and the dutiful service she has provided.\"\n\nHis muttered assurances given, the lieutenant turned to face their host once more. How much she truly cared for the opinion of an ambassador's second was debatable, but he resolved to speak his thoughts all the same.\n\n\"If you desire to court the Unicorn, then honesty is not simply appreciated, but required. The handwringing of court, the doublespeak... I have never cared for them, and I do not believe that Utaku-sama feels much differently. I cannot guarantee cooperation between our clans, or even friendship, but I can assure you that being forthcoming with your intentions will carry you farther than any well orchestrated scheme in these matters.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I am glad we understand each other,\" Moshi Mai replied in turn to the both of them, \"And I am glad that you appreciate the honesty. The only games I like to play are shogi and hog-lob, so I'm relieved that I don't have to try and make a liar out of myself for your possible friendship.\" She bowed one last time, a sigh of relief leaving her. \n\nThis was good. Better, even. It was best to go into this with a level head, and without ulterior motives. At the end of the day, a Unicorn/Mantis alliance would be very strong, but the Unicorn didn't necessarily need the Mantis, and the Mantis could survive on their own, for a time. So, even if they could not be allies in the future, there was no need to scare themselves into foolishness or dishonor. \n\nMasanori's guidance was not lost on her as well. Ultimately, she knew him better than Kazuko, and also knew that he was a man of strong conviction and an honorable soul. \"Compassion matters to both of our Clans, does it not, Masanori-sama? So, I will take your word and follow it. I've heard many good things about you, good man, so I can respect that what you say is the truth.\n\n\"Well then, Utaku Kazuko-sama, Utaku Masanori-sama, I think I've taken up enough of your time with this confession.\" She took to her tea, to wet her whistle, but she had much more potent spirits in mind. \"My intentions are clear, and postponed. So, how about we head to the hall? I've been wanting to have more of this airag, and all this fussing over all the details has made me a hungry woman-\"\n\nOh, she almost forgot the gift. That was the last bit of pomp and circumstance. \"I almost forgot. I _did_ have a gift to present to you at dinner, Kazuko-sama. I'll admit, there's a bit of a production about it. I'd change it and just present the gift in a more modest way, but my daughter Moshi Fujiko has put in a lot of work for it. Please, if you don't mind indulging the girl, it would make her night.\"\n\nWhatever the Kazuko decided, Mai would comply with, and would escort them to the dining hall when they were ready. \n\nThe hall itself was being set up for the dining. While some dinners called for courses and intricate layers and palette cleansers, the Mantis preferred to have all their food out at once, piping hot and ready to send around the table for thier enjoyment. The long table was prepared with Kazuko and Mai sitting across from one another, a space for Fuyuko to do her interpretations, Masanori on the opposite side of her sister, and Moshi Fujiko next to her mother, Chiyoko on the other. Mai figured the symmetry would be aesthetically pleasing, and the least likely to offend. \n\nThe others could sit as they pleased, plenty of space for the lot of them. And in the middle, many dishes of beef, pork, goat, and chicken, as well as a few fish and shellfish dishes. All were spiced, marinated, or otherwised seasoned, putting the Manti's spice trading to work to make for some tasty offerings. Rice and noodles were in abundance, as well as soups and other culinary delights for the guests to enjoy. \n\nIt would be around the time that the guests congregated that Chiyoko would emerge from the side rooms with Fuyuko-san, both of which seeming to have had a nice conversation. The sound of jovial pirates could be heard before the door was shut; what had they gotten into? \n\n\"Now that we're all here,\" Moshi Mai announced, \"Let us sit and eat until we're close to bursting, yeah?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was glad to see that Mai seemed to be in good spirits when she arrived, and dutifully waited for her to finish her announcement.The spread in front of her was almost enough to make Kana metaphorically unmask. Even then, the way her eyes widened when faced with the meal. She didn't understand how the other clans could get by without the same access to spices and seasonings as the scent filled her nostrils. She practically floated to her seat, kneeling down at the table.\n\nShe managed to control herself, however, taking a moment before she dug in. She closed her eyes and murmured a small prayer to Lady Sun, thanking her for the bounty before them, and for the opportunity to build new bridges and friendships. When she had concluded, she lifted her head, and realized there was one more thing to do before she started going at the food in earnest.\n\n\"Shinjo-san,\" She spoke, looking up to Temujin. \"Would you do me the honor of sitting next to me?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin had a complicated relationship with spices. Raised among the Ide and with half his duties taking him across the Empire, he had partaken of milder Rokugani meals as much as he had spiced foods. Add to that the fact that he was a Shinjo, and he only ended up taking about a third of the spices that a Unicorn (or at least a Moto) would be expected to consume. Still, he was certainly more used to it than more conservative samurai were.\n\nBut it was good food, with good company, in an atmosphere which was wholly Mantis, so he was naturally eager to begin even with his proper posture, reading the flow of-\n\nHis expression lit up with a hint of surprise, attempting to smother his delight from hearing her voice alone. He would have looked about him for another Shinjo to divert to, had it not been so clearly directed at him.\n\n*Oh. Is she sure? I wouldn't want to give our Clans reason to gossip. Not that they don't already. Uh. Wow.*\n\nNevertheless, he smiled at Kana, filled with warmth and fond friendship. This was, after all, an official dinner. Who was he to refuse a host?\n\n\"With pleasure, Moshi-san. I would be honoured to accept.\"\n\nWith that, he found a seat next to the bright shugenja and sat by her side, nodding in more familiar greeting as he did so.\n\n\"And thank you for the warm welcome.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The follow up from Masanori was appreciated, and Kazuko found herself nodding in agreement with her brother's words. She was herself learning to play the game of court to a greater or lesser extent, but it did not mean she was willing to simply allow such into her friendship. She would leave that to her clan's allies.\n\n\"If your daughter has worked hard to prepare the gift then please, feel free to give it however she has prepared. I do not wish to take away from the hard work she put into it. I am sure you will be very proud to see her carry out whatever she has in store.\" Kazuko assented to Mai's request. They too had a gift perhaps a bit more ostentatious than normal, but more importantly allowing the pomp and ceremony in this occasion would make the Ambassador's daughter—and thus the Ambassador herself—happy. Not because of the political message she was sure it contained, but that would make it better, free from being tinged with the ulterior.\n\nKazuko could stand to see the Ambassador happy. She could stand to see more of the Ambassador in general. Mai seemed as out of place in the courtier's world as she did, and yet carried herself such that any doubts and second guessing transformed into a casual, friendly demeanor. It was an interesting contrast for one who lived her life converting those same feelings of inadequacy into cold stoicism.\n\nThe spread of food looked and smelled inviting. She was certain her samurai would have a pleasant evening. Seating herself, she greeted Fuyuko upon her return. The translator leaned in to whisper a few words to her lady, which began with pleasant nods of understanding and ended with a faint color rising into Kazuko's cheeks and a brief sideways glance. *Fuyuko and her wild imagination.* \"The banquet looks delightful, Moshi Mai-san. I look forward not only to the meal, but also to getting to know our gracious host better as well.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "As everyone sat down to dine, Moshi Mai definitely felt more at ease than she had before. Good food, good company... It really couldn't be beat. There was the shuffling of seats and the movements of the servants plating for the Samurai, with those addressing Kazuko taking care to ask her and not Fuyuko what she was pleased to dine on, and soon enough everyone would have what they would desire. \n\nChiyoko had no plate, but a nice cup of tea and one for water in front of her, same as Fuyuko. She gave the woman a smile from across the table, having enjoyed the woman's company. It also looked as if Utuaku Kazuko-sama was in good spirits, as well. She figured Mai would speak to her in private, and it looked as if it went swimmingly. \n\nAnd of course, there was Masanori. He looked handsome, as usual, dressed up or down or otherwise, but he looked especially noble that evening. She wanted to say as much, but held her tongue. _Don't be stupid, girl._ All the same, she would steal a glance here and there, when she thought no one was looking. \n\nWhenever she tried not to look at him, she couldn't help but notice Shinjo Temujin and Moshi Kana. They seemed rather close. Maybe it was her own affections to a Unicorn, but she certainly pondered if they were interested in the other in a more passionate fashion. \n\nMoshi Mai was oblivious to all of it. Rather, she could see the writing on the wall, but she was too relaxed to read it. She was just pleased that everyone was getting along. \n\n\"I hope to learn more about yourself, Kazuko-sama,\" Mai replied in turn. \"I'm certain that there's plenty of impressive things you can tell about yourself, or of the lands you hail from. Ryoko Owari Toshi, if I'm honest, is the furthest inland I have ever had to go in my life. So, I'm certainly curious of what such a life is like.\" \n\nOnce everyone had their plates, a prayer was offered, and they could all dig in.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Relaxing was a difficult thing for Masanori even in an ideal scenario, and a banquet held in another clan's embassy certainly did not qualify as an ideal scenario. But Moshi Mai had insisted that the rest of the evening would proceed without the diplomatic pomp of favor currying, and so when he returned to the dining area on his sister's heels, the officer resolved to enjoy himself as best he could. He had proven he could let go before—that he had developed such a fondness for one of the Mantis' retainers in the first place was a testament to that ability. \n\nAs he settled down beside Kazuko, his eyes drifted towards the Mantis' side of the table. He knew a precious few of them, though he did offer Okiku a short nod of acknowledgment further down the table. His true interests lay elsewhere, of course, and he was not so oblivious as to not catch the occasional glance offered by their host's loyal bodyguard. It was a difficult thing not to offer a look in return, given the comfort her presence provided him. That she had been made to dine separately from them as a lesser grated at him, and that he be made to pretend she was anything less than the apple of his eye did nearly as much to blacken his mood.\n\nPerhaps there was a way to change at least a portion of that.\n\nOnce the requisite prayers were offered and the group allowed to dine as they saw fit, the officer took his time in assembling a plate. Only once he had amassed a worthy pile of spiced meats to join the hearty serving of rice offered did he decide to make his move. \n\n\"It has come to my attention that I may have inflicted an unintentional cruelty upon you, Chiyoko-san,\" After what felt like an eternity of sneaking glances, the Utaku affixed his gaze to the wave-woman directly, determination upon his features as he did, \"Allow me to offer my apologies for that. I did not intend to communicate anything less than the utmost respect for you with my gaze. You have proven yourself to be a dutiful retainer and an exemplary warrior during our brief time together.\"\n\nHe offered a slight bow of his head towards the one-eyed ronin, though there was mischief in his eyes as he continued, barely flickering across his otherwise severe mien for the briefest of seconds.\n\n\"Once the meal has concluded, perhaps we might speak in private, such that I might demonstrate the sincerity of my apology? I would hate to further sully the evening's atmosphere with my attempt to reconcile.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Chiyoko was poured a cup of airag, and tried not to look as if she was already an avid drinker of the delicious spirit. All the same, she sipped on it happily, relaxed, all things considered. She would want thank Kazuko-sama, when she was addressed, but for now, she was more than happy to just enjoy the peace. \n\nEveryone seemed to be involved in idle chitchat, or too busy eating to worry about making conversation. It reminded her of how it used to be in a courtly setting, back when she was a Dragon, it was rather-\n\n\"Hm?\"\n\nThe ronin looked up from her zen to hear Masanori was speaking to her. She was rather surprised by what he had to say, and looked to Moshi Mai for half a second. Her master gave a look as if to say 'you're welcome,' but Chiyoko could tell that Mai didn't know what she was talking about. \"O-oh, Utaku Masanori-sama,\" She managed, \"You couldn't possibly offend me with your gaze, good Samurai.\" She smiled, and gave a bow in return, and looked to the two ambassadors as well. \"I assure you both, Moshi and Utaku-sama, Masanori-sama has always been a proper gentleman during our interactions.\" She wasn't sure what had been said about the man, but ever the dutiful partner, she would defend his honor, one way or another. \n\nHowever, Masanori's follow-up gave her pause, and the ronin had to hide her blush with her sleeve and a cough. \"Masanori-sama, you don't have to-\"\n\n\"Oh, nonsense,\" Mai interrupted, \"If the good man wishes to demonstrate his sincerity, you should oblige him! Perhaps you can show him some of that darling origami you produce in your quarters.\" Chiyoko nodded sheepishly, and addressed Masanori once more. \"I look forward to speaking to you, Masanori-sama,\" She said. \n\n\"Speaking of speaking,\" Mai said, \"Fujiko, if you would be so kind?\"\n\n\"Of course, mother.\" Fujiko stood up, excusing herself to retrieve what she needed. Mai shimmied back just a bit, and clapped her hands together once. \"As many of you are aware, myself and my daughter are shugenja. I will be praying for a spell, but rest assured, it will cause no harm to any here.\" Once everyone was paying attention, she offered her prayer to the Air Kami. \"Kami of the whistling, singing winds, a young maiden wishes to recite a story of the people that venerate you and your fellow spirits. Grant her your imagery, your song, and your tricks of light and sound: Flight of Doves.\"\n\nA small gust of wind whistled through the hall, just as Moshi Fujiko stepped back into the room, carrying a large, gaijin-made journal, and a carefully written scroll. She walked over to the where all could see, and set the book on a podium, the scroll nearby. \"Utaku Kazuko-sama, Utaku Masanori-sama, and all your fellow Unicorn, thank you for coming to my mother's party. I pray that this is the first of many! It's nice to have such a lively group around!\" She smiled, and gave a deep bow. \"I have the honor of providing a gift to Ambassador Kazuko-sama. It is a journal, from a sea captain from Maranae. It is nothing but notes of the seas and the wild storms, which is interesting, at least to me, but there is a passage that I shall read now: \n\n\"'I met with a man from a far-off kingdom, desperate to gain passage on any ship that would take him away from his homeland. He looked a wreck, bandaged and bruised, and eyes that seemed to have witnessed a true fright.\" \n\nBehind Fujiko, the air whirled until an image appeared, one of a man as described, looking frightened and jittery, climbing up the gangplank of a gaijin ship. Some of the Mantis servants were in awe, and Chiyoko was equally surprised by the illusion, and the sound of the creaky ship and the gust of sea wind. \n\n'Once our translator was sober, we were able to ask the man what had him so terrified. What he spoke of was a shock to me. Not because I found it too much to be real, but more that I felt his terror, and it rang true.' \n\n'He spoke of warriors, who came from parts unknown on the other side of the Burning Sands. He described them as a horde, a raging storm of not just men, but women, all on steeds and raging forward. From what the man said of the mighty beasts, they were twice the size of any Maraenean Shorthair or a Thranean Workhorse, but with no lack of speed, and twice the determination.' \n\nAn image of this horde came in the form of a silhouette, hundreds of horsemen and cavalry rushing across the rolling runes of a vast desert, many men on foot seeing the charge and freezing in place. \n\n'They were a one group of many: hulking men with wild beards, people of many shades and creeds, and even more odd to my own culture, an entire regiment of women, leading a charge and carrying the banner that none of them understood at the time. The fellow didn't have a word for it, but their shades of purple made it seem as if all, from the lowly pikemen to the highest general were royalty.' \n\nAnd thusly, it was clear by the description and the imagery, it was non other than the Ki-rin Clan, charging to meet their foes, a brilliant mass of Moto, Shinjo, and Utaku barreling across the the sands.\n\nFujiko continued to recited the description, until she finally reached the ending. '...And thus, I can thank God that I am as far away from that place than one can. I'll stick to the sea; I would not want to ever face such a terrible foe myself, and hearing about it was more than enough for me.' Fujiko shut the journal, and fastened it shut again, and bowed. The spell dissipated behind her with a gust of wind, and the sounds and images disappeared. \"Unicorn-samas, I hope that this gift honors you. I took the time to transcribe the passage to this scroll, but both are yours. Let it be known that you are feared for your might, even by those that have a sea to keep them 'safe.'\""
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Fuyuko swiftly built a plate for her lady, knowing precisely what she would and would not like from her earlier meal. After a sufficiently impressive amount was gathered, she presented it to Kazuko, who smiled and nodded her thanks. \"Of course. I would be pleased to tell you about stories from the plains in the north, but only if you do likewise of your travels at sea. You may never have been further inward; I have never boarded a boat.\"\n\nWhatever Masanori had planned to apologize to the ronin, Kazuko was certain it would prove sufficient. Her brother was nothing if not a dutiful and honorable soldier, and she had no doubt he would conduct himself well as a proper samurai. It would not do to have animosity between the two, and the sooner it was stamped out the better.\n\nWhen Mai mentioned a display, Kazuko was unsure of what to expect. Certainly not the spectacle that was displayed before her and the others. It was a fascinating tale too, hearing that the legend of the Ki-Rin's travels progressed as far as kingdoms across the sea. A fitting and impressive reminder of their legacy. After the appropriate refusals (being comfortable did not mean throwing out basic decorum, especially not in front of the rest of her retinue) she accepted the gift, before preparing her own.\n\n\"Your generosity is truly worthy of imitation, Moshi-sama. I am afraid what I have to offer will not come near the level of exceptionalism as this.\" She gestured for a cedar box to be brought to her. Once it was presented to her, she took a steadying breathe and stilled her hands before giving the story.\n\n\"Far to the west, across and beyond the Burning Sands, the Blue Horde encountered the end of the world: the Endless Sea. It was there Shinjo-no-Kami fought and defeated the World Devourer, the great beast named Orochi who consumed half the sea and our leader herself in its final moments.\" It was a solemn tale, and a reminder that even the Kami themselves faced battles beyond their capability. \"After some time mourning her loss, the Horde was about to begin the return journey to the Empire of her birth when the people who lived there stopped them to offer their eternal gratitude for the sacrifice which saved their lands. Among their gifts of thanks were these.\"\n\nKazuko opened the case, presenting the contents to the Ambassador. Within was a delicate, organically branching sculpture the color of porcelain, with intricately designed gold filigree spiraling up each of the arms. In addition to the large sculpture, a small branch made of the same material and decoration was fastened as a pendant on a necklace. \"These coral sculptures come from the end of the world, and yet they are the same corals found in waters near the Islands of Spice and Silk. No matter the distance between peoples, the oceans flows past them all. Those in the Empire who sail upon the seas as as connected to the waters beneath as they are every Clan throughout the Empire; those who fall in its defense follow in the footsteps of Lady Shinjo herself.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana's attention left her plate as she watched the story that Mai and Fujiko weaved, her eyes full of fascination. She had read of some of the things the air kami could do, and the sights they could place ahead of others, but she never imagined that they could illustrate a tale in such a vivid way. She considered as well how well thought out the gift was; an acknowledgement of the Unicorn clan's strength and what made them unique amongst the other clans of Rokugan. For now, though, her appreciation remained silent; the exchange was between their superiors, after all.\n\nShe watched no less intently as Kazuko presented her gift to Mai. While there was no presentation of magic to accompany the gift, she admired the beautify of the sculpture and jewelry, and the story behind the present's selection. In a city where had had learned the importance of keeping one's eyes opened for threats and betrayal at all times, seeing such common ground being built made her heart feel lighter.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The scout was enjoying the evening's events. A smooth introduction, peaceful tea ceremony, and a delicious dinner with good company. All proceeding smoothly enough that he could remain a spectator.\n\nFormal dinners he knew, and this one was going well in a way which fit both Clans. But Fujiko's performance was actually quite the spectacle, in a good way. He'd only heard in passing how the power of the *Kami* Could create such art; this was his first time witnessing such things, and it was suitably impressive.\n\nAnd from what he could see, both sides seemed to be reaching out in peace and respect with their gifts. He couldn't help but smile at the Mantis' gesture, appreciating the effort that went into not just bringing it to life but collecting the tale in the first place.\n\nHigh praise for his Clan, but made possible thanks to a similarly adventurous spirit that explored beyond the Empire. And beautifully complemented by their gift for their hosts. Far-reaching journeys, yet with ever-present unity. So he hoped, at least.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Though there was a wariness in Masanori's eyes as he glanced toward the ambassador, he was satisfied enough with his little stunt. He had soothed Kazuko's misplaced worries and managed to secure a precious few moments with the woman he truly wished to dine with in the process. That much he could find satisfaction in. He might have been content to sit idly by and enjoy his meal, but it seemed their hosts, ever the ambitious, meant to put on a show to accompany a gift meant for his dear sister. \n\nHe offered it all the respect it required, watching the kami work their magics to support their tale. It was certainly an interesting approach—an acknowledgment of the Unicorn's military might. Such a showing might have landed quite well with the proud Lion, who played at humility but preened like peacocks at the very mention of their military accolades. For the Children of Shinjo? It was perhaps a bit much. But the gift was not for him, and his opinion, as so often was the case, mattered little. Kazuko seemed to like it well enough and presented a gift of her own.\n\nGift-giving was always a difficult thing. In a conventional exchange, sentimentality was key, and commercial value was to be ignored. Moshi Mai was anything but a conventional woman, however. He had been assured of this both by way of his previous interactions with the woman and by a polite few advisories from someone closer to her than most. With foreknowledge aiding him, he had confidence that his gift, while nothing so spectacular as a boon once gifted to Lady Shinjo herself, would stand on its own merits. \n\nOnce his sister's gift had been properly accepted, the lieutenant made to stand. He gestured for a slim, unassuming box to be brought to his side as he made to speak.\n\n\"If it please, I too have brought a gift to honor this most generous reception. As a youth, I had the privilege to spend many a year in Khanbulak—the City of the Khan. It straddles the border of the Empire and the Burning Sands beyond, and it is a city like no other: huge, white walls act as a beacon, drawing merchants from the furthest reaches of the west to camp in its shadow. Their tents sprawl across the sands for miles, dozens of tongues spoken amongst thousands of stalls. It is a strange place, and one most samurai would find distasteful.\"\n\nA short pause followed as the box was handed to him, cradled in his palms like so much glass.\n\n\"Perhaps I did too, for a time. But the longer I spent in that strange, foreign place, the more I came to enjoy it. Love it, truthfully. It became a second home to me. The gaijin, strange though they were, proved to be just like any other. Some were good, others bad, some honorable, some dishonorable. In many ways, the gaijin I saw were much like us—they laughed with their friends, wept with their tragedies, and in at least one way, worshipped as we do.\"\n\nWith one hand, he opened the latch on the humble little box. Its lid rose easily enough, and he claimed the contents with that very hand, withdrawing it until it dangled free and he could hand off its container. \n\n\"Much like his city, the Khan's palace is like no other daimyo's home. It is no mighty castle, nor a sprawling estate. Huge marble columns dominate much of the western half of the city. Between them, tapestries so large as to mimic walls stretch between. Many of them were gifts from afar: the offerings of sultans and rajas, many of whom had learned the Unicorn's wrath in the days before our return to the Rokugan. One in particular, I always found quite beautiful. Along the eastern half of the palace, a sheet of silk was woven to depict the sun. In the morning, when Amaterasu shined her warmth on the city, her light would stream through the tapestry, illuminating the intricate goldwork such that one could scarcely tell its beauty from her own.\"\n\nThe cloth he held in his hands was much the same. Though much of the silken garment was a warm, inviting orange in color, the decorative patterns that wove throughout it were gold made cloth. The design was just as he had described: a beautiful sun that caught the light of the dining hall to shimmer as he held it out.\n\n\"When I inquired as to where it had come from, my foster father, Moto Ganbaatar-sama informed me it was hailed from the Ivory Kingdoms. The iconography is quite popular there, as though they do not worship her by her true name, even those born thousands of miles from Rokugan know her light. I cannot say it is quite so impressive as the one that adorned Moto Ogödei-sama's palace, but in place of that magnificent tapestry, I hope you might accept this as a token of my esteem, and an acknowledgment that while some might scoff at the Mantis for their foreign ties—as they did at my ancestors before me—the Unicorn understand that even in the farthest corners of the world, Lady Sun offers her kindness to all of her children. You might consider us proof of such.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai and Fujiko were both pleased to see their joint gift accepted. The daughter was worried that she mistepped or looked silly, while the mother was worried her gift would come off too boastful or flattering. But, it seemed to be taken well in stride, and the pair of Moshi held in a sigh of relief. \n\nThere was the gift in return -well, _gifts,_ actually- and both were splendid in their own right. The first was an impressive sculpture, made up of coral. Coral was an amazing thing. Some thought it a pretty rock, others a hard plant. Others still said it was a beast, just one that was very, very slow. All the same, coral figurines and sculptures were amazing, bright and impressive. Needless to say, Mai would wholeheartedly accept the gift after etiquette was resolved. \n\n\"This is remarkable,\" She said, almost a whisper. \"To think something like this could come from so close to home, and so far away. Who else but the world travellers of Rokugan could find such things, hm?\" She bowed deeply before having the sculpture taken carefully by her servants. \"I want it in my sitting room,\" She ordered, \"So I can have something dazzling to look at with my morning tea.\" \n\n\"You got it, Mam-ahem, Moshi-sama.\" The servant double-bowed, and hurried off. \n\n\"...Anyway.\" Mai shrugged her shoulders, and looked upon the necklace. \"I'm at a loss; I want to wear it now, but I should probably wait... This is the problem with me, Kazuko-sama: When something catches my eye, I can obsess over it!\" She decided to go ahead and don it. The necklace framed well, and looked nice with her getup. \n\nThen, there was Masanori's gift. Mai did what she could not to show it outright, but she may have liked his even more. Despite all her issues and bad qualities, she strived to be a good Daughter, and such a tapestry really reminded her of her duty to Amaterasu. And hearing it came from the Ivory Kingdoms...\n\n\"This is a wonderful gift,\" She said. \"You see, I'm sure as our Clans are no stranger to Gaijin, you can see I am not purely Rokugani. My mother hailed from Maranae, captured and brought to the isles. My father made a wife out of her, and I came soon after, a gaijin-blooded girl. And yet, Amaterasu, the great Lady Sun reached out to me all the same.\" She looked at the tapestry once more, and smiled, genuinely. \"I always thought it a fluke or pity from Lady Sun, but it seems that even when She's hiding from Lord Moon, She's off bringing Her light to the other nations. Indeed as you say, Masanori-sama, She offers her kindness to all.\" Again she bowed with deep respect. \"I have to apologize to you, Masanori-sama, as I have no gift to give in return. Here's hoping that we can reconvene some day and I can express my gratitude properly for such a touching gift.\n\n\"But, if we are complete in our gifts, let's return to the revelry, yes? Feel free to eat, drink, and do as you please.\" \n\nAnd so, once again the dinner went back to being more casual. There was no speaking out of turn to worry about, as conversations could start up as they wished. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "With the gifts given, Moshi Mai dispensed with the formality both sides had so admirably upheld. Temujin could almost feel the relief among the participants, given how both Clans preferred more carefree and 'down-to-earth' behaviour.\n\nAnd consequently, as the murmuring and discussions picked up, it would become easier to fade into them.\n\nLooking to Kana while he stirred at his piping hot bowl of beef and rice, he smiled at her honestly. Nevertheless, being around people they worked with, he did try to keep it at a 'merely happy' level rather than the wide, open ones they shared with each other. Their Clans weren't anywhere as refined or restrained as more traditional ones, but he did want to mind his manners. And avoid feeding the rumour mill surrounding the two of them.\n\n\"Well, Moshi-san,\" He said with amused jesting in his tone, \"Now that the important part's done for now, looks like it's time for my favourite part of these things.\"\n\nWhile he dipped a chunk of meat into a saucer for soy sauce to balance some of the spices, however, he did soften his demeanour just a smidge. There was pride and gratitude there, as well as friendship.\n\n\"But you really did make us feel welcome. The tour was great, and the tea ceremony was perfectly done. You should be proud of that.\"\n\nWords of assurance, sincerely meant. Though in his mind, he recalled that thought he had about her again for but an instant. Like lightning, the thought left an impression, but left quickly.\n\n*...It's just the close quarters and the food you're feeling. Your cheeks and ears aren't burning.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"You and I both, Shinjo-san!\" She smiled, dipping a bit of fish into raw egg, popping it into her mouth. She looked at the red meat on Temujin's plate for a moment, considering whether or not she felt quite bold enough to try it. At the very least she knew she wouldn't find judgement from the Unicorn regarding it.\n\nShe quickly chewed and swallowed her food at Temujin's comment. \"Oh! Well, it is Moshi Mai-sama who deserves credit for the tea ceremony! The tour of the embassy was no trouble at all for me. I am glad to hear that you enjoyed it, though.\"\n\nShe smiled brightly. She still wasn't great at accepting compliments, but she was doing better. She hoped.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "\"Of course,\" He chuckled warmly. \"I was in good company.\"\n\nHe had a mouthful of the food, and had to admit it had a kick. His palate may not have been as accustomed to spice as a Moto's, but the savoury, fragrant delights enhanced the beef and got absorbed by the rice very nicely.\n\nWashing it down with a cooling drink, he looked to Kana again with a look of fond recollection.\n\n\"I got used to these with Ide-sama, but I'll admit it was different back home at Shiro Shinjo.\" Temujin shared freely. \"With so much of the Clan on the move at any time, most big dinners and meetings like these took place out in the open.\"\n\nHe smirked at the thought; Unicorn affairs were an odd mix of traditions, some restrained and others free. But logistics were always important for a Clan that preferred yurts and plains to futons and castles.\n\n\"What about you?\" He asked with focused interest. \"Were formal dinners like this back in the Valley of the Centipede?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku had remained quiet through the opening greetings. It was not her time to comment so she remained on the fringe as the event unfolded. Her words were always soft, and she didn't like to speak unless there was cause to.\n\nWhen it was time to eat, she knelt with a demure air at an open spot. She remained quiet unless spoken to, just listening to the conversation. While not shy, she was always careful with her words could never be accused of being emotive. She had always found value in just listening to words that were spoken to deduce the motivations and ideosynchracies of others before she put her slim hand into the ring.\n\nThese Unicorn were a strange group she had surmised, though that was already well in evident — but then her own family were not typical of the mainlanders, so she had little room to make comment about her own people.\n\nCarefully, she sampled the offered morsels, taking demure, polite nibbles. She was very conscious of both her food and appearance while taking nourishment — though not quite at the level of a ritual, but rather close.\n\nWhen Temujin spoke up, her attention shifted that way with some curiosity.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh?\" Kana asked. \"You'd often have feasts outside, then? That's interesting indeed! I imagine it must be difficult to manage some times. Especially if the weather did not cooperate.\"\n\nAs Kana spied some eel, she did not hesitate to help herself quickly to a generous portion and place it upon her rice, looking almost like a spearfisher doing it. Good food had always been one of her greatest weaknesses, and with so much for all she didn't worry too much about being decisive when it came to her favorites.\n\n\"Well... Less red meat, and many more prayers before the meal. *Many* More,\" She added with a giggle. \"It didn't trouble me that much. I think it's always important to honor Lady Sun and the fortunes, and pay respect to who provides for us. Though if one is particularly hungry, well... Distractions do happen.\" Another giggle at that. \"While we never ate outside, occasionally we would slide the door open to offer a view from the mountain...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "\"Whenever we could. It was nice to feel the wind and see the sky.\" Temujin replied cheerfully, a mischievous spark in his eyes as he drew on old memories. \"Though if it rained, we'd use our larger tents. You can imagine how restless some of my Clanmates could get packed so closely together.\"\n\nWhile she answered his question, he followed suit as well. From the steaming dishes before them, his chopsticks grasped a bunch of vegetables with a few slices of pork. He didn't hide the growing happiness and satisfaction, hearing her speak of her own home's parties with such familiarity.\n\n\"Now, see, back in Kouryo Province, our biggest issue was rounding everyone up,\" He returned with a short laugh. \"Even when we were all gathered, you could always count on at least a handful of wanderers who couldn't resist going for a longer ride. Happened to me once, in fact.\"\n\nMirth softened to a glowing admiration, however. He knew they were in a large gathering, many conversations going on all around them. But whenever he spoke with her, it felt like it was just the two of them.\n\n\"That does sound lovely, though. I can imagine the prayers help you feel closer to Lady Sun, and each other,\" He said earnestly, the immediate parallels of tradition clear. Fiddling with his chopsticks, the Shinjo added \"I've seen mountain views on a few occasions; I can only imagine how it looks where you're from.\"\n\nThere was a hint of longing there, too. He loved meeting and bonding with people, but as a Shinjo scout, he also loved witnessing nature in other lands just as much.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "As the many conversations started up around the dining hall, Moshi mai fell silent. She accepted her gifts, gave her own, and with the business taken care of by not being business, she could relax, for the most part. There was one thing she needed to discuss with Kazuko, but it could wait until after. It was a non-starter, anyway, and with all that was going on with the people involved, it would surely not come to fruition. But, she'd make a point to inform the Utakus of the little scheme the Scorpion were cooking up. \n\nBut for now, it was time to eat. \n\nMai had to admit, red meat wasn't all that bad. She was always a fish girl, herself, but the leaner cuts of beef and the like were flavorful, in their own right. Her crew of misfits did wonders in that kitchen, that much was certain. All the same, though, she still had sashimi and grilled tuna fillet to savor, and she definitely intended to eat until she couldn't anymore. \n\n\"Kazuko-sama.\" Mai spoke up to her fellow ambassador, offering a small bowl that had a sizeable piece of seared tuna steak on a bed of rice. The tuna had a nice, crispy sear, speckled with a mix of spicy and tangy seasonings. \"I understand that you care little for fish, but I hope you'll try some prepared the Mantis way. You may just find a new favorite.\" \n\nAs Mai attempted to tempt Kazuko, Fujiko was busy watching Kana and Temujin talk. They were definitely friendly, as far as she could tell, and she couldn't help but wonder if the two were even aware of it. She really shouldn't pry in older people's business, but...\n\n\"Excuse me, Shinjo-sama,\" Fujiko said, \"But I wanted to say that you look very handsome this evening!\" She looked immediately to Kana, still smiling. \"Don't you agree, Kana-sama?\" \n\nChiyoko stayed silent, for the most part, letting the samurai have their fun. _She_ was having fun, as well, even if it was mostly just sitting there and watching others enjoy themselves. It reminded her of her old work, attending dinners as Togashi Yuuko's yojimbo, or even back home, in her father's estate. She couldn't complain, that much was certain. \n\n\"More sake, Chiyoko-sama?\" One of the servants asked her, noting the empty cup, but the ronin declined. \"Actually, some airag, please,\" She replied. \"It's quite tasty, if you ask me.\" Some of the Mantis would disagree, and didn't hold the same sentiment. But! It could really get the cheeks warm and in half the time as sake, so that made it not too shabby. \n\n\"You really enjoy that drink, don't you, Chiyoko-san?\" Mai looked over at her yojimbo, a smirk on her face. \"Don't drink too much, now, I'd hate to find you stumbling about!\" \n\n\"I have never gotten drunk in your presence, Moshi Mai-sama,\" Chiyoko argued, \"And even so, I never stumble about. I usually just, well, fall asleep.\" \n\nMai chuckled, and so did Chiyoko, though she rolled her eye in the process. \"I know, I know. I give you a hard time, but you're not bad at what you do, Chiyoko-san. Speaking of, I forgot to thank you for making all those figurines.\" \n\nThere were more than a dozen mantis and unicorn origami figurines dotting the table, with simple notes of 'good fortune' and 'friendly times' written upon them. Chiyoko blushed a little, not expecting the praise. \"It's nothing, truly,\" She muttered, \"I just threw them togeth-\"\n\n\"Now, don't lie, Chiyoko-san; your quarters are full of them, are they not?\" She looked at Masanori, since he and Chiyoko were acquaintances of sorts. \"You should really see her collection, Masanori-sama. You'd think she was just a grumpy ronin, but she really likes to make some rather cute origami. You may appreciate seeing your acquaintance in such a friendlier light.\" \n\nChiyoko blushed profusely, but like any trained swordsman, she saw an opening and took it. \"If it would please Utaku Masanori-sama, I wouldn't mind showing him.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The food was exquisite, the people seemed comfortable enough, the airag and other spirits flowed freely. Was this what a real party was like? Kazuko could not say for certain, having only faced political battlefields masquerading as such as a child and kept far removed from the raucous celebrations of her soldiers as a commanding officer. She was not quite sure if she enjoyed it either; it was all so much to take in. So many voices, so much laughter and speaking. Perhaps another drink and she would be able to gather a hold of her opinion.\n\nUnfortunately, the attempts to make sense of it all did nothing to smooth over her severe demeanor. If anything her uncertainty made her generally serious mask fit ever tighter over her features, at least for now. The Mantis Ambassador's words broke her out of her introspection, and she snapped her attention to the woman.\n\nIt was true, Kazuko had never developed a taste for fish. It was simply not a commonplace item to be had in Unicorn lands, all sprawling plains and no coastline. Her experience with fish came primarily from Crane dishes served for the diplomats and artisans of their allies who visited the lands of her own people. However, she was here to be friends, and friends did not scoff at each other's offers. She put on her best attempt at a smile. \"Very well, at your recommendation.\"\n\nShe took a small piece and ate it, waiting for the inevitable distaste to hit. It . . . Never did. While she could not say it was a new favorite, she found the fish when properly seasoned surprisingly palatable. Nodding, she took a bit more on her plate. \"I am always pleased to expand my tastes, Moshi-san. Thank you for the suggestion.\"\n\nFood and drink continued to flow freely, and eventually the stoic taisa broke from her silence enough to pose a question to her host. \"Tell me, Moshi-san. How does a priestess turn into a captain and then an Ambassador? Your story must be a fascinating one, and I would be interested to hear it.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "After his 'apology', Masanori was content to spend the rest of the dinner in relative silence. The same could not be said of some of his clansmen: Temujin especially seemed in high spirits. So much so, that the lieutenant found himself warily glancing down the table of honor towards both the Shinjo and his conversational partner. The pair seemed particularly close, and he could not help but wonder how much of the warmth between them could come of the little drink they had shared. Perhaps it was merely his affection for a particular Mantis that led him to such assumptions. Given that his subordinate remained unwed, he had little reason to pry further into the matter than idle curiosity. \n\nWhether by mercy or misfortune, his mind was not given too much space to wander through. The lieutenant directed his attention towards their generous host as she rained a rare amount of praise down upon her Yojimbo. His perception of the woman was colored by the often irate tales told to him by her loyal retainer, gleaned during those precious nights they spent in one another's company. To hear it told, she was quite the bully, unafraid to throw her weight around with those beneath her command. Perhaps the Moshi remained on her best behavior in front of her honored guests, or the promise of cooperation between their clans had left her in good humor.\n\nIt was a sad thing, to cast such suspicions on someone he had so little experience with. But a necessary suspicion... And a suspicion not lessened by her invitation to explore Chiyoko's quarters. It took discipline to suppress the urge to look to Kazuko—who had surely seen the origami figures decorating his yurt—at the mention of such an extensive collection. He cursed his inability to tell whether the ambassador knew more than she let on. Was it a ploy? An effort to try and separate him from his sister such that she could more easily push her agenda in his absence? \n\nHis eyes were hard as he stared her way for a long, lingering moment. Then the ronin among them spoke, and he found his eyes drawn her way. The heat that burned across her cheeks helped melt his icy gaze. How could he refuse her when she looked so terribly flustered?\n\n\"A wonderful suggestion, Moshi-san,\" The Utaku reached for his cup, and drained it in a single swift motion, both to not be a discourteous guest and to help cool the fires in his chest, \"Shall we depart now, Chiyoko-san? I am eager to experience your hospitality, in honor of our newfound understanding.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Kazuko's question had a rather long answer, but Mai wasn't afraid to share it. It was a rather peculiar life she led, that much she was certain of. \n\n\"Well,\" She said, \"I suppose it starts with my mother, really. Moshi Mayumi was her name, Lady bless her, and she gave birth to be after a chance encounter with a gaijin from Maranae. I still do not know how that joining came to be, the secret gone with my mother's soul. But, the important part was that I was half-gaijin, which was not acceptable at the time. Thus, I always had a mean streak, needing to combat those that'd come at me for being a 'half-breed.' Thus, I grew up mean, and more than willing to hurt others. If not for hearing Amaterasu's voice, I may have been doomed to pure villainy. \n\n\"All the same, while I was gifted in the magical arts, I was not a woman that was considered of high worth by Moshi standards. Thus, I was used to cement an alliance between Moshi and Yoritomo, back before we shared one banner.\" Mai sighed, contently. \"That's when my dear Yoritomo Tomoru came into my life. Surly, outspoken, and ruggedly handsome~...But most importantly, he didn't let me push him around. I liked that quite a bit. Anyway, he was captain of the Shibamura, in charge of raiding Gaijin ships... And the Crane, which I'll remind that the Mantis paid our debt on in coastal lands and dowries. But, all the same, I took on that life, blessing the ship, the crew, and my beloved captain. Naturally, when a fight occured I would fight, and I learned everything from being on that ship that any captain should. I had a son, which I named after my husband. But when I was pregnant with Fujiko...\n\n\"...My husband was slain at sea.\" Mai didn't look upset, though Fujiko was solemn at the mention. \"So, when his ship returned, as did his crew, who were in need of a captain. I missed my husband dearly, you see, and if there was one thing other than my children that reminded me of him, it was that ship. So, I took on the ship's responisbilities as captain. \n\n\"Now, managing that and my priestly duties has been tricky, but the sun shines upon the ocean as well, and you'd be surprised how many wicked spirits and creatures are out there in the deep. So, I managed to maintain a balance that has yet to anger the Lady. \n\n\"As for becoming the Ambassador,\" She said with a chuckle, \"I must confess, I was not expecting it. There was a moment in time that the Mantis Embassy was floundering. Not the greatest thing to admit, but the fact that we've turned it around so much more than makes up for the blunder, wouldn't you say?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah! Well um... Yes! Yes he does! Ah! No! Yes! I mean in a very distinguished and formal samurai sort of way. Indeed, you look very handsome tonight Tem- Shinjo-san! Shinjo-san!\" || Disadvantage: Romantically inept ||\n\nAfter her rather awkward response to Fujiko, she procedes to stuff her mouth full of spiced eel, both to stop herself from embarassing herself further and to have a ready excuse as to why her entire head was as red as a chili.\n\nMai's story did offer some reprieve, however, as she shared the story of her life. Kana had heard and known pieces of it, but this was the first she had heard the tale in full. It was a remarkablr tale suitable for the remarkable woman the ambassador was. She felt her heart swell a bit with pride as well when she spoke of how the Mantis had come to do so much better in recent days as well.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin had certainly received compliments before, and knew of their many uses in social functions. He'd gotten insulting ones, sincere ones, suggestive ones, and joking ones, so he was somewhat prepared to thank Fujiko graciously.\n\n\"That is kind of you to say, Fujiko-sama-\"\n\nThen she included Kana in the conversation, and somehow things changed again. Awkwardly clearing his throat, stopping and starting his sentences, he fumbled with his thoughts, every ounce of statecraft he absorbed from Ide-sama trying to holds it all together.\n\n\"Oh. Um, I... Thank you, Kana-ch-*San*. The Mantis clean up nicely, too. And the green goes well with your eyes. Uh, your usual colours do, too, of course. Um. The green looks nice on everyone. And you.\"\n\nHe promptly reached for his own drink and nearly drained the cup in one go, hoping it'd help fade or divert from his burning cheeks while he wringed his hands. It was certainly bad enough that strictly speaking, the 'proper' thing to do was address her by her own name since they were among other Moshi!\n\n*Well, we're certainly not stopping the rumour mill anytime soon. But just what is Fujiko-san playing at?*\n\nEven so, despite the terribly awkward attempt at polite compliments, his smile warmed up and a low chuckle escaped his lips; if nothing else, he always enjoyed laughing at himself. \n\nHe kept his eyes on Kana for a moment to share a gaze, his expression accepting of the situation and glad for her company. Then, he returned to the meal, drizzling a bit more of the tangy sauces over his rice bowl of beef and crab.\n\nHe had a welcome diversion when he listened to Mai's story, of course; he heard some of her experiences during his visits, but not her own personal life, and his respect for the woman and her daughter grew. He didn't begrudge samurai who came from gentler upbringings so long as their character was cultivated, but he could certainly respect those who overcame adversity while having something to cherish.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "As the meal wound forward toward its conclusion, the cup at Kazuko's side was rarely empty for long. Efforts to maintain calm in an event she felt so woefully uncertain in led to what an observant soul might view as an excessive amount of drink. To her credit, there were few outward signs from the taisa. However, to those who knew her, the change could be spotted. A slightly more expressive countenance, more exaggerated hand signs, a more relaxed posture.\n\n\"That is quite the impressive series of events, Moshi-san. Clearly the Fortunes have seen fit to bless your continued efforts in the name of your clan.\" And if her tale was even half the truth, the Lords of Death clearly too fearful to claim the shugenja's soul. A life with so many unexpected challenges and shifting goalposts seemed foreign in the mind of the Shiotome. Her life only ever had one aim, and she could barely keep that held in check.\n\nThe talk of being thrust into an Embassy faltering was noted, perhaps a place where the two of them had a shared experience. Kazuko took another drink of the liquor at hand—it had been refilled silently once more by Fuyuko—before nodding sagely. \"I suppose in that manner we are not too dissimilar. I think you were present during the events which led to my . . . Temporary assignment here. Were it not for the skilled hands of my fellow clanspeople we too would have found ourselves toppled.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The evening was getting towards the end, and it had to be a success, as far as Mai could think. Then again, she thought everything was a success at the moment, as she was rather drunk at the moment. Now, Mai could always hold her liquor, so she wasn't going ot make a fool out of herself. Probably. As long as no one started up a song, she _should_ be fine. \n\nHer daughter, however, had met her match in plum wine. She found the taste of it pleasing, thanks to Kana's recommendation, and white she abstained from excess, she _may_ have sipped a few too much. At the moment, she was sitting up (barely), both hands on the tabletop to keep her balance. She was having a good time, all the same, especially watching Temujin and Kana flirt. \n\n\"You're much too kind,\" Mai replied to Kazuko, shaking her hand. \"I'm certain at times the fortunes are too busy thinking of how best to punish me that they forget to do the deed! But, I thank you for the nice words, Kazuko-san. Oh, apologies, Kazuko- _sama._ Forgive me if the drink got me too friendly!\" \n\nMai put a hand over her cup when the servants came around to fill them again, definitely feeling that she should quit while she was ahead. \"You make a good point, Kazuko-sama. And yes, that was a horrible night for a new ambassador.\" She rolled her eyes, remembering the whole ordeal. \"The bickering, the accusations, the forgeries... It was all a mess, and made worse by distrust from the Scorpion Clan. I won't pretend that I didn't expect such skullduggery from them, but I would have expected them to... I don't know. _Plan it better?\"_ Mai chuckled, always enjoying a moment to bully. \"But, I will say that the Unicorn handled the ordeal with a lot of grace. It was actually the way we were approached after the case that spurred me to look into making friends instead of enemies. Shinjo Temujin-san was particularly helpful in that regard.\" \n\nIt was almost at random, but the shugenja remembered something that the sake and wine and airag had forgotten. \"Ah, that reminds me, Kazuko-san.\" Mai motioned to the spirits on the table, and then to the taisa. \"You seem like the kind of woman that could enjoy some rare drink. Here.\" She handed a carefully folded letter, sealed and everything. \"It has an address to a hidden gem of a brewery in the city. It's very _hush-hush,_ so please, don't view the location until you're in private. Masanori-sama would find it interesting as well, I believe.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Perhaps some hours earlier the Battle Maiden would have been in a state to fully comprehend the message woven through the Mantis Ambassador's words. However, in her current state that would prove impossible. It seemed in the course of the evening a sudden wave of exhaustion had begun to wash its way over Kazuko, and it was requiring far too much of her focus to maintain her calm and collected composure for her to consider too deeply what the meaning of this was. A problem for tomorrow. \"I thank you, Moshi-san. I am sure this will be appreciated.\"\n\nThe final pleasantries of the meal had reached their end, and with that was the signal to eventually begin to make their way back to the Embassy. Rising—a little slowly and with Fuyuko's assistance—Kazuko bowed respectfully to their host. \"Moshi Mai-san, Mantis-sans, the evening has been most agreeable. I appreciate the gesture of friendship towards us, and hope this will not be the last. Perhaps next time we shall have to invite you to dine with us. I hear our celebrations are known to become quite *Lively*.\"\n\nCasting one last glance around the assembled Mantis delegation, committing their faces to memory, she nodded once more. The faintest hint of a smile crossed her face as she regarded the Mantis Ambassador. \"Until next we meet. I look forward to it.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 410 | 23,716 |
286 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "It was Himiko once more just blatantly showing up at the Mantis embassy. Perhaps Moshi Mai should be used to Lions randomly showing up at the door. Was it plainly rude or part of their directness? One could question both. This time it was once more Kitsu Himiko. The young ambassador simply waited at the door. All she could do. She would hold a beautiful bottle in her small hands. Her hairs were braided up in several strands against that turned into a grand poof of hair behind her. Her clothing seemed formal however. She simply waited. Asked an attendant for the presence of Moshi Mai if she had wished to receive her that is. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I'm here, now what's the matter?\" \n\nMoshi Mai came to the main entrance of the Mantis Embassy, wearing but her modesty wrap around her chest and a quickly donned pair of hakama pants, daisho held in hand. She had been grabbed by Yuji-san, the young servant boy that Moshi Kana had 'hired' for the embassy, along with his family. Why he was up at this hour was beyond Chiyoko, but the boy had went to her directly, saying he saw a 'monster' in the darkness. \n\nSo, the ronin arrived, ready to see what the problem was and cut it down. The two guards at the front seemed rather unnerved, oddly enough. \"Oy! You two, is there something there, or not?\"\n\n\"There's something, Chiyoko-san,\" One of the guards said. \n\"Yeah, but it's just standing there... Menacingly.\" \n\nChiyoko peered out into the dark... And sighed. \"You idiots. That's Kitsu Himiko-sama.\" The ronin stepped out the door and into the dark, and bowed deeply to the young ambassador. \"Kitsu Himiko-sama, apologies for the cold welcome. Please, let me know what I can do for you at this hour.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko would bow down to the Ronin. She didn't seem tired. She looked like she just woke up and energized if anything. *\"Chiyoko-san. I apologize for suddenly showing up like this.\"* The young ambassador stated. Beyond the friendly smile grew a more concerned frown. *\"I received a letter from Ambassador Moshi-sama. One I wished to address in person, immediately.\"* The young girl did not directly demand but did so with discretion. She understood if Mai did not have the time for this. But she felt the urge to discuss it anyways. Afraid that something bad had happened.\n\n*\"If she's willing to see me I would be beyond grateful. Even at this hour.\"* The girl said. Bowing down once more. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Chiyōko blinked as the ambassador made her intentions clear. The ronin looked back at the servants that gathered to see the ronin 'slay the monster,' all thinking the same thing:\n\n_'I don't want to wake up Mama Mai.'_ \n\n\"...\"\n\"...\"\nChiyōko scanned the crowd, and pointed out Yuji. \"Yuji-kun, you're the smallest and least likely to be strangled. Notify Moshi-sama of Kitsu-sama's arrival.\" The little boy gulled, and hurried off to his fate. \"Kitsu-sama, please follow me.\" \n\n===\n\nAfter some time, a very belligerent, very grumpy Moshi Mai arrived at a sitting room that Himiko would be asked to wait in. Mai was unadorned of makeup, her hair a mess, and a more appropriate robe hastily put on. She ignored any bows and took her seat with a grunt. \n\n\"...It is late, for a woman like me, Kitsu-san. Care to explain?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko sat there. She would bow anyways even though Mai had not felt like it. *\"Moshi-sama. I apologize for demolishing your slumber.\"* It was clear Himiko was aware of what she did but also seemed sorry for it. She would take the letter written earlier by the Ambassador. She would fold it out. \n\n*\"What has occurred?\"* Himiko seemed determined to know what happened. *\"Not to dishonor you but I had no intentions in even attempting to convince you to start an alliance with the lion. It would be blatantly stupid to ask as the two of us only met several weeks ago. The unicorn is an honorable ally and what has the Lion done for you to even consider us an ally?\"* Himiko cleared the air. \n\n*\"My Ikoma acted on their own beliefs. Behind my back.\"* The young Kitsu did not seem angered but moreover irritated. She would bow down and offer the gift of an old sake bottle filled with a very expensive sake as well. *\"I apologize for her sudden visit, I apologize for my sudden visit and I hope this will compromise with the lack of sleep I caused.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai rubbed her eyes a bit as Himiko gave her apologies for the late visit, and since she seemed to be actually upset about the move, Mai preemptively decided to try and be nice about it. Surely there was a reason behind it. \n\nAnd that became clear when the young ambassador apologized for the actions of Ikoma Kazuyo. \"Oh, right. _Her.\"_ Mai narrowed her already narrowing eyes, remembering that little upstart and her bold plans and (almost) demands. \"No offense is taken from _you,_ Kistu-sama, but your bard overstepped her bounds by quite a bit in poor form. To ask me to renege on my dealings on the whim that the Lion would give me more than the Unicorn, all while having nothing to bring to the table? Hardly a smart move. _Arrogant,_ I would say.\"\n\n\"But, I will admonish you, all the same, Kitsu Himiko, for being a _weak ambassador.\"_ Mai looked Himiko dead in her apologetic eyes, as if she was scolding one of her children. \"You are the _ambassador,_ and you represent one of the Great Clans of our Empire. You can't have your own men making plans behind your back, and you can't come rushing to apologize with a bottle of booze and call it a night. If it were any of _my_ Samurai, doing such things behind my back, they'd be in no shape to ever do so again, for they would be beaten to a pulp or __dead.\"__ \n\nMai let those words sit for a moment, before she softened her tone and gaze. \"Pour us a drink, Kitsu-sama,\" She sighed. \"Now, listen to me: As I told Ikoma-san, I will not be reneging on my dealings with those I wish to ally with. The Lion and the Unicorn and Crane have not been allies in many ways, and the grudges hold strong, and if I am being honest, the Lion will not take the city. Unless they intend to do so by force, at which they'll be going against the will of the Emperor's family. If I were you, I'd be getting ready to deal with the Unicorn and the Crane... Or, you can learn to work with _the Mantis._ That is the same advice I gave your bard. The Mantis can be your middleman, to make sure your Clan gets what it needs without letting tempers flare up.\""
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko looked at Mai as she did not speak a word. After all it was only polite to let her speak every word on her mind. She wanted to retaliate with answers and reasoning but realized deeds had been done and judgement had been made already by the woman. She did not break eye contact nor started to show any form of sadness or a sign of being offended. After all these words were true. \n\nIn silence she poured Mai a drink, then herself as she put them down. She did so in proper etiquette. She would nod. It was her time to speak. *\" I could not send an Ikoma to apologize for the actions of one of my samurai. The true reason I found out she is going behind my back was your letter after all. Hence I wanted to thank you for it. But I feared for damage done by a stupidly yet unrightful proud Ikoma.\"* That's all Himiko had to say to that. She was not weak, she did not imply the bottle as an apology, more as a soothing method for showing up at these hours. She paused her speaking. Nothing changed in the stoic expression the once joyful child had displayed. \n\n*\"I would like to take up your offer on that. However tell me, what do you want in return? Much like you said what exactly does the Mantis gain from helping us when the Unicorn is a much more suitable ally for you than we are.\"* Himiko would tilt her head a bit. Considering ways to punish the ikoma, break her legs, no her soul, stitch her mouth closed so no harm could be done, take her tongue. Himiko was filled with rage. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai simmered, but she didn't boil over. As much as Himiko was trying to convince her otherwise, Mai saw it differently. Himiko was weak in her role. Not that she couldn't come around and make wise moves, but it was clear she needed a push. \n\nBut Himiko's question was a good one: What did the Mantis want in return? \n\n\"The Mantis don't need a thing, honestly. _I_ want to go back to Kyuden Moshi and retire. The Mantis want land and recognition, which we will gain from our alliance. But the one thing the Lion can give me, and better yet the city, is peace.\"\n\n\"Kitsu Himiko, I would want the Lion to withdraw their plans of trying to claim the city against the Unicorn. If you look at your options against them, you have the Crab and Dragon, who refuse to take sides, the Scorpion, who will say yes as long as it takes to get what they want, and the Phoenix, who hate the unicorn so much, they're falling into same trap the Mantis did when we first arrived in the city.\"\n\nMai sipped the sake, and let the proposal stand. \"Choose neutrality, and I will make certain that your drive for peace and order is repaid with generosity. The Unicorn are fairer than their enemies make them out to be. It'd be better to be on good terms than sour ones, when they take the city.\n\n\"But, that is what I think, Kitsu-sama. As your elder, I am just giving the advice I would give my daughter, if she was in your situation. But in the end, follow your own heart and own decisions. Just make certain your men follow the same path, as well.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Consider it a deal.\"* Himiko looked at Mai. Somehow she had managed to look more seriously than she had before. That or it was the exhaust that hit the young one who was way past up her bedtime. She had watched Mai drink the sake. Then glanced over to her own full glass. Right here she had to swallow her pride, their pride. The Lion would be furious to hear Himiko so easily giving up on something so many wanted. Not that they ever stood a chance. Mai was right about their allies and currently they had none, just the handouts of what the clans were willing to give them. The silence remained as the Kitsu became more at ease. Taking a sip of the sake. \n\n*\"But that deal does not mean we will obey everything the Unicorn expects from us. We are a clan on our own, we will respect others but we are one to think for ourselves as well.\"* Those words were what Himiko still wanted to share. She felt pity for the Mantis who got wedged into this and all she wanted to do was retire. This was not to notice on her tone and behavior however. She made eye contact for the briefest moments as she then turned back to looking at her surroundings. She would clearly feel some tension leave as her posture turned to a more relaxed one. She would take another sip. \n\nShe did not speak any longer. She was angry with Mai as well. Calling her weak made her feel like launching her sandal at her head. She had not acted upon that thought however. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Kitsu Himiko-sama, of the great and powerful Lion Clan, please don't think that I am not aware of the pride of the right hand of the Empire.\" Moshi Mai knew well enough that the Lion could hold a grudge, so it was always best to smooth things over. Talk up the ambassador. As a mother, she knew how to put enough sweetness with the medicine so it went down smoothly. \n\n\"Your clan has served since the beginning, and trains some of the grandest soldiers in the realm. It's not a matter of being weak, just ill-suited for this foul city. The Unicorn have alien ways and a culture that tows the line that most Crane would be appalled by. The Scorpion have always been willing to dishonor themselves for the greater good. We Mantis have a bad reputation, and we're foolhardy enough to push our luck on the river trade. But the Lion Clan are a clan that holds Honor over all things. There is no honor in Ryoko Owari Toshi. It would be a stain on your honorable pedigree, if you think about it.\"\n\nMai smiled, and chanced a more personable move. She reached over the table, and attempted to place a hand on Himiko's shoulder. \"Trust me,\" She said, \"Leave this dishonorable place to the gaijin-blooded and the backstabbing. If you still wish to fight the Unicorn, do it in summer, on the open plains as an honorable clan should. Don't sully your brilliant light in the darkness here.\""
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\" I cannot disagree with that statement.\"* Himiko said upon this city being one of dishonor. She had felt it, she hated it here but somehow managed to slip by with words when one asked her perspective on this damned city. Himiko watched her hand reach out, a normal response of hers would be to flinch, a twitch of her eye would reveal the reflex, but Himiko did not follow through. She accepted the hand on her shoulder. Of course there was something in it for the Mantis, but Himiko did not want them as enemies, not when they could grant them supplies to survive. \n\n*\"We have managed to stay tolerant with the Unicorn for this long, I suppose till summer would not hurt anyone.\"* With that Himiko settled. She had felt bad for barging in like she did. A strange habit she and Miu had, yet never was it punished. She remained silent for a moment. \n\n*\"What is Kyuden Moshi like?\"* Himiko was a stranger to many places but wished to learn. She wanted to let go of the tension. She made her apologies, Mai made her statement and she wished to ask many things related to how to be a good leader but she felt that now was not a good time. \n\n||"
}
] | 273 | 3,146 |
616.785714 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"No, no, no!\" \n\nMoshi Mai was on the loose, barking orders and being a bit of a problem for her servants. The group of them weren't used to such an angry Mai, who was usually more snide and imposing with her bullying. Now, she was a whirlwind of decisions, insults, and overall panic as she tried to get things ready for the upcoming dinner with Utaku Kazuko and guests. \n\n\"Are you _trying_ to disrespect me and our guests? Huh?! I said we needed the _best_ cushions, and you bring me these lumpy monstrosities?\" Mai threw one of the sub-par cushions at the servant, knocking them in the face and to the ground. \"Do better, alright? This is very, _very_ important. I bet you wouldn't be so lax with Yoritomo Koichi, yeah?\"\n\n\"It's just-\" \n\nMai glared at the outspoken servant, a small old man that she loomed over. \"Yeah?\"\n\n\"W-well, you said you wanted a h-homey feel to the embassy, Moshi-sama. So the Unicorn didn't think you some 'wannabe Crane,' as you put it.\" \n\n\"...\" Mai looked around, a cold sweat coming over her. \"...Right. Well, um, get the good cushions anyway. We can have nice seats.\" She strode away in the hurry, but not before yanking the fallen servant up by the collar to her feet. \n\n\"Lady Sun, help me... Why did I say just two days? Why didn't I think about this harder?\" Mai left the dining hall to the foyer, where her darling daughter was working on the gift to Kazuko. \"Fuji-chan,\" Mai said, much sweeter than she had been, \"How is the writing going?\" \n\n\"Fine.\" Fujiko looked grumpy, which was sadly adorable. \n\n\"Oh... Well, good. Any reason why you're giving me this disrespectful treatment? You look at someone when you talk to them.\" \n\n\"You also don't bed strange people on a whim, _Moshi Mai-sama.\"_ \n\nMai was hurt, wounded even by the formal addressing. \"Fujiko, your mother had a need, that's all, and rest assured I'd never had done if it I knew she'd _attack_ you-\" \n\n\"Well, still. She's mean, and I hate her. You better not see her again or I'll... Well, I'll be even angrier!\" \n\n\"Right, right. Just, focus on your project, yes? I'm entrusting you with this, my widdle Fuji-chan.\" \n\n\"...Okay, Mama.\" Fujiko managed a small smile, and got back to her stroke work. \n\n\"Moshi Mai-sama.\" Chiyoko, Mai's dutiful yojimbo returned, notes in hand. \n\n\"There you are! It doesn't take that long to walk to the Ide Residence, you sloth.\" Mai rested her hands on her hips. \"Well? What did you find out from your contact?\" \n\n\"Right. Chiyoko looked down at what she wrote. \"According to M- the contact, Utaku-sama hates fish. She finds it bland. She _does_ enjoy red meat, so things such as goat, pork, beef and the like. She's also fond of art.\" \n\n\"...That's it? You are a terrible scout, Chiyoko!\" \n\n\"Sorry Moshi-sama.\" The ronin bowed. \"I may have gotten distracted, that's all. But, at least you know what to serve, and possibly a gift.\" \n\n\"Yes, fair enough.\" Mai sighed, and looked at the busy servants preparing everything. \"This should go well, yeah. It's just dinner, after all. Nothing to worry about!\" \n\n\"Indeed, Moshi-sama. Oh, one of the servants asked where you wished the interpreter to be seated.\" \n\nMai blinked. \"The what?\"\n\n\"Utaku Kazuko-sama does not have the ability to speak loudly, from a wound. She uses a heimin interpreter.\" \n\nPanic showed on Mai's face as she tried to figure this one out. \"What... Where do you put...\" Mai sat down on a cushion rubbing her temples. \"What the hell is the proper etiquette for _that?!_ I can't mess this up, dammit! I could disrespect her so harshly the damned battle maidens will rip us apart!\" \n\n\"Mama, calm down!\" Fujiko used her parchment to try and fan her mother, while Chiyoko stood there, unsure on what to do. \"Well, if there's anyone that would know, it'd be the Cran-\"\n\n\"Shut. Your. Mouth.\" The low rumble made it clear that wasn't an option. \n\n\"Right... Well, Moshi-sama, what should we do, then? I doubt an expert will just show themselves out of the ether.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "Deleted User",
"message": "The embassy doors opened once more, ushering in a soft rush of the evening breeze. All eyes were drawn to the figure stepping into the hallway. His posture was regal, yet sturdy like an old tree, an embodiment of both grace and strength. He wore a well-tailored kimono of deepest blue, embroidered with elegantly detailed koi fish swimming up the hems. The Mon, prominent on his sleeve, proudly displayed a ferocious Crab. This was Yasuki Umeo, a diplomat and solver of problems for the Crab Clan. Despite his stature, there was a humility in his countenance that spoke volumes about the man. He moved with the ease of someone well-versed in navigating the corridors of power, but also with the same simplicity that resonated with the hardy spirit of the Crab Clan.\n\nUmeo paused at the entrance, absorbing the chaotic scene before him. He watched as Moshi Mai barked orders, listened to advisors, and fretted over details. A hint of a smile tugged at the corners of his lips. It wasn't mockery but a shared understanding of the situation. Courtly dinners were a high-stakes game, and he knew the pressure all too well. Without wasting time, Umeo approached a group of flustered servants. \"The renowned hospitality of the Mantis Clan is shown by the wear shown on these pillows. The guests, however, may not be up to the task of recognizing the value of such a gift. While it is a great honor to share the use of an item previously used by so many storied samurai, such honors are best reserved for only the closest of allies.\"\n\nHe stroked his goatee without pausing to hear the servants' response, \"The red cushions that I passed in the west storage room,\" He said, in a tone more suggestive than demanding. \"They would do well in capturing the same intent without risking the implication of slovenliness.\" The servants, too startled by his sudden appearance, simply nodded and scurried away to do his bidding. Umeo then moved to a pair of servants standing unsurely discussing how they were to procure enough sashimi, probably another source of Mai's worries. \"It was mentioned that Utaku Kazuko-sama has a preference for red meats, remember? Fish won't do.\" The two nodded and hastened away, grateful for the guidance.\n\nAfter several such interventions, Umeo finally reached Moshi Mai herself. He respectfully bowed, his forehead almost touching the floor. As he straightened, he met her eyes with a kind smile. \"Yasuki Umeo, at your service, Ambassador Moshi-sama. I am a humble Diplomat for the Crab Clan, and I specialize in solving problems. Over the years, I have had the joy of working with your clan with positive outcomes and mutual understanding on several occasions. I have approached you today to offer my aid with any problems you might encounter while I am in town, in honor of the gracious treatment that I have received from the Mantis in the past. Would you please forgive me for suggesting now might be a time that I could be of assistance?\" He stood there, a steadying presence in the storm of chaos, awaiting her reaction. His offer of help hung in the air between them, an anchor thrown to a ship being tossed on stormy seas.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The many servants were perplexed by the fellow that came through the doors, giving borderline orders and suggestions to get things done. The advice given was good, indeed; the red cushions were nice, but not used often. Surprisingly enough, the Scorpion didn't come around all that much. It might show the Unicorn that they have made more visits than the other, perhaps. It'd help cement business being on friendly terms. Likewise, the fish move was good as well; taking fish off and possibly substituting it for squid or octopus would be a better move, along with the red meat. \n\nAll in all, great advice given. \n\nTo Moshi Mai, it looked like some Crane waltzed through the doors and started ordering her people about. But, as he came closer, she could see the mighty crab, and was... Well, doubly surprised.\n\nThat is, until the man finally introduced himself. A, the Yasuki. Often forgotten by some, but to the Mantis, they were close cousins in their skill at the bargaining table. Needless to say, Mai was in better spirits, and even shot a smirk at her ronin and her last comment. \n\n\"Well, Lady Sun seems to be smiling on me this evening.\" She bowed, as did her daughter and her yojimbo. \"Well met, Yasuki Umeo-san. It's a pleasure to meet you formally. I think I recall seeing your name quite a few times in Yoritomo Koichi-sama's records before I took over. If you're the same one he noted, I'm in good company and with great timing.\n\n\"As you can see, we're in the midst of preparing for an important dinner with the Unicorn, and I might have put too close of a date. Getting everything ready is daunting. And to make things more difficult, I have a unique issue.\" She looked to Chiyōko, who knew more than she on the matter. \n\n\"Yasuki-sama.\" She bowed before speaking. \"Utaku Kazuko-sama has lost the ability to speak normally. She uses an interpreter, one Fuyuko-san, a heimin. She will speak for and as Utaku-sama, and anything she says is the word of her master. One that speaks to Utaku-sama looks to her, and the heimin will stay close and speak. \n\n\"The issue is, how to go about sitting a peasant at a dinner table with Samurai.\" Mai crossed her arms, sighing. \"It's not like there's a handbook to ambassadorship, and if so, I never got my copy. So, I'm at a loss at what to do about this. If you have any idea, Yasuki-san, I beg you share.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "Deleted User",
"message": "The Mantis Clan's embassy in the heart of Ryoko Owari was a storm of activity as preparations for the upcoming diplomatic dinner were underway. With his stately posture and the quiet authority of a seasoned courtier, Yasuki Umeo's steadying presence projected an island of calm waters and soothing breezes. The fading sunlight seeping through the paper screen windows cast long shadows on his careworn face, highlighting the strong lines carved by years at sea. Turning his gaze towards Moshi Mai, a subtle warmth crept into his eyes. Despite the seriousness of the situation, he couldn't help but appreciate the strength and determination radiating from the tall, shapely woman. The vibrant colors of her painted nails and her golden upper canine glittered in the ambient light, while the intricate full-sleeve tattoos hinted at a life steeped in adventure.\n\n\"Very well, Moshi-sama,\" He began, his tone smooth as he navigated the balance between deference and confidence. His tough weathered hand instinctively found its way to his silver-specked beard, a gesture that seemed as much a part of his character as his unerring etiquette. \"If there were such a handbook on ambassadorship, I have no doubt that your contributions would be invaluable. Unfortunately, you have yet to write this book so we must rely on our collective wisdom and experience. While you are more than capable of navigating the turbulent waters of this situation, and though I am merely a humble Crab... I would be honored to assist you in any way I can.\"\n\nPausing thoughtfully, he moved across the room with a measured pace, his gaze raking across the people and objects in the room, committing their numbers, positions, and functions to memory. The necessary tools to solve this problem were already here. \"Etiquette, in its essence, is about respect and consideration. The usual seating arrangement would place a heimin out of sight. Given Fuyuko-san's role, however, this would be both impractical and potentially disrespectful to Utaku-sama. It would be appropriate to place her close beside, albeit slightly behind, Utaku-sama. This would allow the translator to perform her duties effectively, while subtly signifying that the translator is an extension of Utaku Kazuko-sama, therefore ensuring the respect of all present towards her status as the Utaku's voice.\"\n.\n\n\"As for the food, Fuyuko-san should be served the same as the samurai. After all, she serves as the voice of Utaku-sama during the dinner and a tool is as important as the samurai that wields it. However, several problems could arise from the translator being engaged with their meal while the Utaku wished to communicate. I propose that we arrange a private meal for Fuyuko-san, to be held directly before the dinner. Chiyoko-san, your assistant, could accompany her and a not-disadvantageous rapport between your assistant and the Utaku's translator could be nurtured.\" Umeo paused briefly, allowing his words to permeate the room before continuing.\n\nThe Crab Auditor suppressed a smirk before continuing. \"The Utaku would be incapable of communicating with ease for the duration of that meal and thus would be at an uncomfortable disadvantage. It might even be perceived that you did such a thing on purpose to underline to this Unicorn that her functionality is limited and you control this space. While an absolutely delightful move to establish dominance and show strength, it would have an effect counterproductive to our current purposes.\" \n\nAt this point, Umeo stopped near a shamisen delicately positioned against a nearby wall. He traced the strings with a gentle touch, his gaze distant yet focused. \"I think I have a solution. A tea ceremony, in its most traditional form, is a perfect occasion to sit in meditative silence. One could surely say that it might even last long enough for a translator to enjoy her meal. And to bridge the gap between the tea ceremony's end and Fuyuko-san rejoining, might I suggest a performance? Perhaps a demonstration of the Mantis Clan's mastery of the musical arts, contradicting any preconceptions of your clan being 'mere sailors'. The audible beginning of the performance could then discreetly signal the end of Fuyuko-san's meal.\" \n\nAs he finished, Umeo returned his gaze to Moshi Mai, the softness returning to his eyes. His respect for her was clear, both in his words and his demeanor. \"I hope these suggestions align with your thoughts, Moshi-sama.\" Bowing his head slightly, Umeo reaffirmed his role as an advisor, and ultimately, his respect for Moshi Mai's final decision.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai, Chiyoko, and one of the servants followed Umeo as he walked, the latter taking notes as best he could as the Crab explained things. It made sense, in the scheme of things; A heimin couldn't sit at the table fully, but they should be seated to attend to their master, of course. _But,_ they couldn't just put a mat out on the floor as if this Fuyuko was a dog. So, the special meal before the meal was brilliant. \n\n\"I'm not an assistant, Yasuki-sama,\" Chiyoko corrected, \"I am Moshi-sama's yojimbo, and-\" \n\n\"And nothing,\" Mai interjected, \"You said you knew Fuyuko-san, as in you spoke with her before? Who better than someone you're acquainted with to give you company? Besides, you can eat then as well.\" \n\nThe ronin looked a little surprised, but didn't speak on it. \"Right, of course, Moshi-sama.\" \n\nThat was one hurdle dealt with, but it had another issue: Kazuko would be without her voice. That would be most awkward, no doubt. \"Hm, fair point.\" Mai nodded, taking in the problem and trying to find the solution on her own. I'd have to keep her distracted, but not in such a way as to look like I'm placating someone's handicap out of pity...\" Just as she reached a conclusion, it seemed Umeo beat her to it. \n\n\"Exactly my thinking! A tea ceremony is perfect. It takes as much time as I want it to, it's silent, and _everyone_ must do so, thus not leaving anybody out! Ha!\" Newfound confidence rose in the Centipede, and she stood a little taller. \"And you know, I just so happen to be rather good at conducting tea ceremonies. It was my specialty when I did my schooling, you know.\" \n\n\"It was the only course she didn't get in trouble during,\" Muttered Moshi Fujiko, mostly out of earshot. \n\n\"All the same, that would do it. Respect shown on all sides. As for music, that would be a nice touch. I'm not sure how skilled a musician I have around this place, but at the very least it would take up some time. That, or the gift I'm presenting Utaku-sama might be just the tactic as well...\" \n\nMai glanced back at the Yasuki, and grinned. \"If I didn't have the ability to tell indefinitely, I'd think you were reading my mind and inner desires, Yasuki-san. This will do most nicely. If this goes well, the Mantis Clan will be aligned for business rather well with the Unicorn. Better to be business partners than enemies.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "Deleted User",
"message": "The Shugenja's perceptiveness and quick grasp of his suggestions were indeed impressive. Long shadows danced on his sturdy form as he adjusted his navy blue kimono with the koi embroidery, his gaze never leaving the Mantis courtier. The corners of his mouth curled slightly upward into a rare smile that at once transformed his air of curt confidence into something more akin to an satisfied tiger, \"I am simply glad to be of service, Ambassador Moshi Mai-sama,\" Umeo responded, his tone respectful while his eyes sparkled with amusement. \"And let me assure you, I am not capable of reading minds. I am, however, pleased that my suggestions align with your thoughts.\" \n\nHe took a moment to recognize Chiyoko with a small bow, \"A servant capable of fulfilling multiple duties with alacrity and loyalty is rare and valuable. Fierce devotion is as formidable as skill with the blade, and a Yojimbo with a mind capable of knowing when to use the sword and when to use the pen is even more formidable. I beg that you do not take offense that I made the assumption that you were such a person to the Ambassador.\" \n\nHe then turned his attention to the room once more, his casual expression effortlessly returning to the practiced mask of an experienced courtier. He appeared thoughtful, observant, and detached once again. The embassy was alive with the energy of the upcoming event, servants moving in a synchronized dance of preparation. With each passing moment, the Moshi's vision for the diplomatic dinner was becoming a reality. The air around Umeo seemed to shimmer with an air of quiet confidence and stability as he turned back to Moshi Mai. \n\n\"I have no doubt that your expertise in conducting tea ceremonies will bring a serene elegance to your gathering, Moshi-sama. The thought of witnessing your mastery firsthand is surely something to be anticipated.\" His voice held a genuine note as he share the compliment. \"The Centipede's devotion to tradition far predates their apotheosis into the undisputed masters of storms and sailing among the Mantis. I would imagine that your family's shugenja school would have placed a great deal of importance on doing those things the correct way.\" The dimming light seeping through the paper screen windows glinted off his eyes before he again looked away.\n\nWith confident and fluid movements, Umeo gracefully moved to pick up the shamisen. Its glossy surface caught the evening light. Absently, he picked at the instrument's strings with untrained fingers. The sound that reverberated around the room was strangely haunting. \"Even if we can't find a proficient musician among the Mantis, a performance could still add a charming touch to the evening. However, I am intrigued by your mention of this gift to Utaku-sama. Either gesture could speak volumes about the Mantis Clan's hospitality. Your ability to think steps ahead in this intricate dance is a testament to your finesse in these matters.\" After speaking, he gently placed the instrument back on its stand and let his eyes return to the formidable ambassador. \n\n\"Tell me more.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "This fellow was very, _very_ flattering, and while Moshi Mai was usually strong enough to disregard such things... Well, he was rather sweet about it, after all. \"Oh, you're just saying that,\" She had offered, a more womanly chuckle instead of her rude and hearty guffaws. \n\nEven Chiyoko was rather amused by the praise he gave, especially as he described her many duties, most of which had little to do with bodyguarding. \"None taken, Yasuki-sama,\" She said with a bow, \"I do my master's bidding. Even if it's... Unbecoming at times.\" \n\n\"Oh, don't pay her any mind,\" Mai said, moving in between the two, \"And tell me more about how grand I am, hm?\" Indeed, while she was a ruthless pirate and a shrewd businesswoman, she was a fool for kind words about herself, most to many's surprise. And hearing the reverence for her old minor clan's devotion and all really just put icing on her flattery cake. \n\n\"I need to keep an eye on you,\" She warned, \"Because you're quite skilled in saying all the things I like to hear, hm!\" \n\nHer daughter looked up for a moment, and exhaled as she tried to disregard her mother. Hopefully this wouldn't be another one of her 'needs' sated. \n\nAs the topic switch to the gift, Mai cleared her throat to explain. \"Well, as we all know, gift-giving is a whole song and dance as well. I've always found it rather silly; why not just give someone something they need, to show you care? 'No, that is a sign of weakness and insulting one's lack of resources' and all that. So, a gift should be worthless, for the most part. _That_ is what I've gotten my hands on.\" \n\nMai beckoned Umeo to follow her to her daughter, who was still hard at work with her calligraphy. On the desk was an open book, a style of holding literature not used much in Rokugan. \"A book, Yasuki-san, a journal from a Meraedian ship captain that I got my hands on, back when I was free to pillage gaijin ships as I pleased with my late husband. It's mostly logs and the like, but interestingly enough, there is a long passage about tales he's heard of _'Mighty, ferocious women that rode massive steeds across the desert and beyond, that could not be conquered by any force that met them.' He mentions that their steeds would not take a man as a rider, and more so that they carried purple banners, a color of royalty in the writer's lands.\n\n\"In other words, this fellow, from a country that no Rokugani has made landfall, heard word of the Utaku Battle Maidens. What better gift than acknowledgement that the might of the Unicorn is known even across the sea?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "Deleted User",
"message": "Mai's jests about him fluffing up her ego brought the rare hint of a genuine chuckle from the weathered Crab. \"You honor me with your words, Moshi-sama,\" He responded smoothly, a mischievous twinkle dancing behind his controlled expression. \"But be assured that my admiration for your family is sincere.\" Umeo's words held a depth of honesty as their eyes met for a fraction of a moment. It was the same unexpected truthfulness he applied so expertly to his duties and dealings, both in the court and on the high seas.\n\nFollowing the shugenja's beckoning gesture, he moved toward the desk where her daughter diligently worked. As she spoke, his attention shifted from the meticulous calligraphy to the opened book. \"Ah, a journal,\" He mused aloud, leaning over slightly to examine the foreign script. \"A treasure chest of thoughts, experiences, and wisdom from lands beyond our shores.\" The mere mention of these far-off lands stirred within him memories of his own voyages, the thrill of uncharted waters, the taste of salty air, and the challenges and wonders that the open sea presented. As Mai shared the nature of the journal's content, Umeo's curiosity visibly heightened. His eyes widened ever so slightly as he took in the description of the 'mighty, ferocious women'. The significance of such a gift was not lost on him.\n\n\"An exceptional choice,\" He complimented sincerely, his attention shifting from the journal back to her. \"A gift that showcases the far-reaching reputation of the Unicorn, especially the esteemed Utaku Battle Maidens, is a poignant testament to their impact and power. It acknowledges their significance not just within Rokugan, but in the broader world as well.\" He returned his attention to the book, his hand hovering above its worn cover, careful not to touch the precious artifact. \"It serves as an acknowledgment of the Unicorn's roots, their unique experiences, and their unmatched ability to assimilate and thrive in foreign cultures. It is respectful, tactful, and full of depth, much like the traits one would hope to see in a skilled Ambassador.\"\n\nPausing, Umeo stepped back and offered a nod of respect to Mai. \"In the intricate dance of courtly exchanges, such an item will surely resonate with Utaku-sama. The sentiment, the history, and the appreciation contained within this simple journal are powerful tools in fostering the alliance you seek.\" He then straightened his posture, folding his hands into the long, wide sleeves of his kimono, his gaze steady on the Moshi. \"I trust Utaku-sama will see the sincerity and respect in your gesture, as well as the potential for a fruitful partnership between your clans. If they do not? The audacity required to denounce such a gift would be staggering indeed.\"\n\nWith a gentle yet respectful bow, Umeo allowed his gaze to linger on the Centipede for a moment longer. The Mantis Clan was undoubtedly in capable hands here in Ryoko Owari Toshi. \"Whoever your best orator is, they should be in charge of reading the passage aloud before presenting the book. The time spent speaking would remain the proper cue to end the translator's meal and the whole affair would absolutely cement the reason you were appointed to the position of Ambassador. I will remain at your service should you need it to ensure that the preparations are completed to the finest detail, Captain.\" He paused, acutely aware of his slip. Perhaps it would go unremarked. \"...Ambassador Moshi Mai-Sama,\" He said with a voice that was calm yet firm. The effortless confidence in his demeanor remained a steady beacon in the bustling activity surrounding them. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Exactly my thinking, Yasuki-san. It's probably the finest work I've done on the gift-giving front. All with a written translation in wonderful calligraphy by my dear daughter. She's quite the proper lady, and has all the artistry that my blood carries... Somehow.\" Indeed, Fujiko was an outlier, being such a cheerful, peaceful young woman. \n\nAt the mention of being a skilled Ambassador, Mai scoffed. \"That bit of compliment won't work on me, I'm afraid. I'm not cut out for this sort of thing. I'm a terror of the high seas and a Daughter of Amaterasu. This ambassadorship has been an old dog learning new tricks, and quickly.\" \n\nLooking over the servants and the work, she indeed felt a bit... Depressed? No, seasick. That is, homesick, but for the sea. She hadn't been out on the waves in months, and she was getting restless. \n\nShe had zoned out for a moment, thinking of what her late husband would have thought when she heard Umeo's slip-up. \n\nChiyōko heard it, too, and bristled, unsure of what Mai would do. She was used to Mai being rather lax with titles, but only with her crew and the like. Hell, even she had caught herself calling her master 'Mama Mai,' to much ridicule and jeering. \n\nBut this was a stranger, not someone she had control over. \n\nThat concern was quickly dissuaded, as Mai chuckled, and then let out a nice, hearty laugh. \"Oh, is it Captain already? Do I put you so at ease that you think you call me that? Well, I take it as a compliment!\" \n\nA series of small sighs of relief sounded off as people got back to work. \"I like you, _Umeo-kun._ All kidding aside, you've impressed me, and done me a great bit of help. You know by now that we Mantis always return help in kind.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "Deleted User",
"message": "Umeo's expression held a practiced neutrality as Moshi Mai confessed her discomfort with her ambassadorial duties. \"Many of us find ourselves thrust into roles we feel ill-suited for, Moshi-sama,\" He stated, a thoughtful hum punctuating his words. He glanced at the sea-green scales in the embroidery on his kimono, a subtle testament to his own maritime roots and current landlocked station. His gaze then traveled to the open journal, its weathered pages a testament to the long journeys it had survived. In many ways, it was a reflection of their own paths—adapting and persevering despite the odds. \"However, we must adapt and rise to the occasion, much like a ship forced to adjust its course due to unforeseen storms. A pirate becomes an ambassador, a merchant becomes a diplomat. We are not defined by what we are, but by what we can become.\"\n\nUnfortunately, his slip of the tongue did not go unnoticed. He held Moshi Mai's gaze steadily as the room fell into an expectant silence. His eyes showed no surprise, no hesitation, as if his calling her 'Captain' was an intentional choice rather than a mistake. Like locking eyes with a poisonous serpent, he was trapped until the Ambassador made her move. Umeo's attention held steady as Moshi Mai's expression shifted from shock to something softer, something intrigued. The quiet understanding that passed between them was not lost on him, the former rhythm of ship life resurfacing in the form of a slip-up. Yes, it was a mistake, and yes, it could have escalated into a major diplomatic incident, but instead, it had brought them a step closer, albeit unexpectedly.\n\nHe realized that Moshi Mai was not simply an ambassador he intended to open a dialogue with, but someone who understood his deep-rooted connection with the sea. She was someone who shared his longing for the open ocean. In her eyes, he saw recognition and something more... A spark of interest, a subtle acknowledgment that his words had resonated with her. The room remained silent, an expectant pause as everyone waited for Umeo's next move. He could feel the weight of their gazes, the anticipation palpable in the air. He bowed respectfully toward Moshi Mai. \"My apologies, Ambassador Moshi Mai-sama,\" He began, his voice firm yet gentle, \"It was a slip of the tongue, born from a shared connection with the sea. I did not mean to overstep my boundaries.\"\n\nHe straightened, the calmness of his demeanor unyielding under the scrutiny of the room. There was a momentary pause before he continued, his gaze meeting Moshi Mai's once more. \"I will endeavor to never use such a casual address again,\" He vowed, his words holding a hint of playful charm as he added, \"In public.\" With those words, the room seemed to breathe again. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Anyone that loves the sea enough to slip on the word 'captain' is someone I'd like to share the company of.\" Moshi Mai was relaxed, finally, with hardly a worry at the moment. There was bound to be other crises to deal with, but for now, she was at ease. \"You'll hear no complaint from me, Yasuki Umeo. And rest assured, next I write or see Hida Koyama-sama, I'll have nothing but nice things to say.\"\n\nHis cheeky comment caught her off guard, and despite her imposing self, she brought a hand to her mouth to cover up her grin. \"You are truly a Crab, because you seem to enjoy living dangerously, Yasuki-san.\" She felt she was repeating herself internally, but she liked this fellow. Charming, smart, but confident. If he could fight a dozen men on his own, he'd be the perfect man in Mai's eyes. But, that was an odd thought to think, wasn't it? \n\n\"Casual address never bothered me,\" Mai said, trying to get back to brass tacks. \"The way I see it, anyone can pay lip service with the right honorifics. _Real_ respect and superiority is in how your subordinates do your bidding. My crew? All heimin, but I would put my life in their hands on the open ocean any day. And my loyal dog of a yojimbo? She's a mouthy little cuss, but she would throw her life in harms way for me and mine. I suppose it's a long way of saying, as long as respect is shown when it counts, call me what you please. _Especially in private-\"_\n\n\"I'm going to finish my work in the study!\" Moshi Fujiko abpruptly stood up, and gathered up her supplies, barking at a servant to carry the rest (and apologizing immediately for being rude not but a second later). \n\n\"You'll have to forgive her,\" Mai chuckled. \"I fear she's forgotten that her mother is a warm-blooded creature.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "Deleted User",
"message": "As the tension broke, Yasuki Umeo took a calming breath. The air around him usually trailed an aroma of bright honeysuckle wrapped in sultry wood smoke, and now it was blending with the earthier tones of the Mantis embassy's incense. The effect was not lost on the broad-shouldered diplomat. It was evident that Mai's words had resonated with him. The way she spoke of her crew, her loyalty, and her trust in them struck a chord deep within him. His mind ventured back to the Mantis crews he worked beside. Umeo had come to trust them over the years. The Crab could still remember the warmth of camaraderie, the shared laughter and trials, their efficiency and motivation, and the shared respect born out of facing the same adversities.\n\nThe Centipede spoke of respect not merely as a title or honorific, but as an inherent trust in the other. A trust that the other would do what was necessary, whether out of obligation or shared understanding and respect. He found himself agreeing with her. Mai's casual admission, an open invitation to address her as he would, sparked a warmth within him. His mind was keenly aware of the potential implications, the precarious balance they tread in this diplomatic dance, yet he found himself accepting her words with surprising ease.\n\n\"The sea has a way of revealing true character, doesn't it?\" He replied, his words tinged with nostalgia. \"You cannot hide behind titles or false pretenses when the waves are high and the wind is against you. The sea judges you equally, whether you are a merchant or a diplomat, a pirate or an ambassador. Out there? Out there, we are just sailors... Facing the storms together.\"\n\nHis hands folded neatly in front of him, fingers lightly brushing the embroidery of his kimono. His touch lingered on the intricate design. He felt the subtle texture of the fabric, the smooth glide of the threads, and the delicate precision in the craftsmanship. The abrupt departure of Moshi Fujiko momentarily drew his attention, but Umeo merely offered a nod of understanding. Moshi Mai's response of a light-hearted explanation was met with an understanding smile. \"I understand. One does not easily find equilibrium within themselves between the might of Ameratsu, the power of the storm, and the gentle patience of a calmed sea. One might forgive a few sensitivities.\" The words of the Crab Clan's problem solver were light, an attempt to dispel the fleeting awkwardness of the situation.\n\n\"Ambassador, or Mai-sama, I hope our paths will cross often in the coming days. In truth, I am looking forward to our next interaction,\" The Yasuki admitted. There was something about the way Mai carried herself, the strength in her gaze, and the certainty in her voice that caused him to anticipate their future meetings. He added, \"Till then, I shall allow you to return to the work that I interrupted.\" With that, he took a step backward and bowed slightly. Despite the words they had just shared, he allowed the Ambassador the right to dismiss him as Umeo still remained a samurai of lesser status.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai found no faults in what Umeo stated. It was certainly the case, no title mattered to the angry waves of the sea. \"To the Mantis, especially the Yoritomo, that is as true as ever. Especially when one's Great Clan status was earned though zeal and courage, and not through divine right. A large group of we Moshi weren't too keen on the brazen actions, but when we found out how furious the Pheonix were about it, well, how could we possibly say no?\" \n\nA laugh left her, remembering those tumultuous times. Simpler, chaotic times. \n\nLuckily Umeo took no fault in Fujiko's insolence, and seemed very understanding. This fellow was well-rounded, level-headed. Mai approved. \n\n\"Well, problem-solver, or Umeo-san,\" Mai said, bowing in turn, \"I hope you come around more often. I've been planning a meeting with the Lion and the Crab, though a much less formal outing. It's bound to be a merry time, and I hope you know you _must_ come as well. But... If you find yourself in the neighborhood or seeking to do business... You'll find me most generous.\" \n\nWith that, she gave the Crab a smile and a wink, and turned her back to him. Dismissed. She had plenty to do, and no time to rest. But, she'd make time for this Yasuki Umeo in the future.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "Deleted User",
"message": "Yasuki Umeo took in Moshi Mai's words, a hint of amusement reflecting in his eyes as she mentioned the Phoenix's fury. Mai's laughter echoed around the room, it was bright and genuine, stirring the air around them with a palpable joy. Her invitation brought a pause. An informal outing with the Lion and the Crab, hosted by none other than Mai herself, promised to be an intriguing event. \n\nHer casual assurance of generosity was met with a nod of understanding. Yasuki Umeo knew the value of connections, friendships, and of trust. \"I will look forward to your invitation and let nothing but my duties to the Crab stop me from attending, Mai-sama,\" He responded, the warmth of an old friend in his voice.\n\nThe wink and the smile that followed were unexpected, yet somehow fitting. A spark of camaraderie flickered in the space between them, a silent understanding that their interaction today was merely the beginning. As Mai turned her back to him, Umeo bowed respectfully. \n\n\"As the sea bids its waves to retreat, I shall take my leave, Ambassador. I have found the Mantis embassy most welcoming,\" Yasuki Umeo said before turning to leave, his steps echoing softly in the room. \n\nAs the embassy doors closed behind him, he allowed himself a brief moment to reflect. Their conversation had been unexpected, a refreshing encounter in the often stifling world of diplomacy. Yasuki Umeo had always considered himself a good judge of character, and he felt confident in his assessment of Moshi Mai. A strong woman, a capable ambassador, and potentially, a valuable ally. \n\nYes, he was definitely looking forward to their future encounters. With one last glance at the embassy, Umeo set off into the bustling streets of the city, the echoes of their conversation and the aroma of the incense lingering in his senses. \n\nPerhaps this diplomatic mission was not going to be as tedious as he had initially thought. \n\n||"
}
] | 608 | 8,635 |
354.285714 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The Shinjo scout-envoy strode through the halls of the Mantis Embassy in all their glorious mixed heritage, feeling rather pleased with himself.\n\nHe'd just finished a meeting with Moshi Mai, which was usually either a delightful challenge or a challenging delight. This time, he was able to better navigate the flow of the conversation, knowing when to show boldness and bluntness instead of impeccable respect. She still blew him out of the water when it came to such, but it was good to be able to meet her on such terms sometimes.\n\nDeals were confirmed, dates closer to the festivals and parties hosted on the pleasure barge. It was a fruitful time, and he even had the satisfaction of being able to greet each servant by name, and a few of the samurai, though most simply gave him a polite or bawdy greeting and moved on with their day, just as he did.\n\nAs he rounded a corner past a *Sumi-e* Of a ship striving against mountainous waves, his mind wandered, pondering what else might make this day-\n\nTemujin came face to face with a most familiar (and pleasing) face. And the first thing he noticed and recognised wasn't the kimono, nor the scar or the shaved head, but eyes that could come alive with joy or soften with vulnerability.\n\n\"Oh! Ka- Moshi-san!\"\n\nThe scout stepped back and bowed respectfully even as he corrected himself, his muscle memory acting ahead of his thoughts in this instance.\n\n\"Good day to you. I, ah, hadn't expected to see you in the embassy.\"\n\n*...She's a Mantis, you imbecile. Good to see her, though! ...And is that someone I hear cackling nearby?*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "It was another day primarily at her writing desk, the least favorite kind of day at her job. She much preferred active investigations, or at least getting to be out and about in the city, officially keeping an eye on things but also taking the time to meet new people and experience city life. It was all duty, though, and she was as diligent as she ever was. \n\nAs she was taking a quick break to stroll through the embassy and stretch her legs, however, she found herself making a decidedly un-Samurai like noise of surprise upon encountering a very familiar and very welcome face. She could feel warmth growing from her cheeks to the top of her head as she made note of the staff attempting to conceal their smiles.\n\n\"Temujin-san!\" She bowed to him. \"Y-yes! Good day indeed! I was just taking a short walk. Help myself refocus for work. Which is here.\"\n\nShe cleared her throat, meeting those brilliant blue eyes of his. \"I apologize for nearly running into you.\" She bowed once more. \"What brings you here?\"\n\n*There! You're being completely normal! Completely!*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "He smiled crookedly to hear his name and hear her speak, certainly not minding any of this in the least, though he could feel his ears growing warm as he fidgeted and awkwardly wringed his hands.\n\n\"Oh, it's no trouble. But I'm glad I nearly ran into you! Uh. I mean.\"\n\nHe paused to catch his breath, inhaling deeply to still his mind and-\n\n*...Oh my gosh, are those servants staring? Most would go about their day.*\n\nOf course, as embarrassing as all of this was, it only made him laugh lowly at their situation and their reactions befitting a *Sewamono* Play. \n\nAcceptance of that didn't make the blood stop rushing to his head, but it did smoothen out his smile as he spoke with genuine warmth for his dear friend.\n\n\"A walk's always good for clearing one's mind. Though my brother once said I walk so far and so often it's like I have nothing on it!\"\n\nHe'd referred to his brother before in his many talks with Kana, of course. And it would be clear by now that while he was apparently a dour, disciplined man so very different from Temujin, the brothers were still close even with their disagreements.\n\nEnough for Temujin to laugh about it, at least. But he always seemed quick to laugh about his own follies. Still, it helped his expression settle into its usual easygoing grace.\n\n\"As for me, just some minor work. The upcoming Festival was something we'd planned to discuss. Whether it'd be a good time for another fight, if that'd be disrespectful, or if we'd even want to compete with other events. But thankfully, we were on the same page today.\"\n\nHe *Just* Caught himself from saying that it was perfect because it ended at the right time for him to bump into her. He wasn't going to make *That* Mistake again! Although...\n\n\"And how have your duties been going, Moshi-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "*Right! Official purposes! Use his family name, you fool! Wait... Why are they looking over here?! Don't you have duties?! I should order them back to them. Ah, but that might draw more attention! Lady Sun, I need to find someone who will make a kimono with a hood. I can only imagine how my head looks...*\n\nAs her thoughts raced, she somehow managed to maintain her composure and a warm smile for her friend. \"Well, if I were to be run into by anyone, I would much prefer it to be you.\"\n\n*Why did you say that? What kind of compliment is that?*\n\n\"Ah, your brother does give you a bit of a hard time. All in good humor though, it seems!\" She smiled. She enjoyed hearing the little stories about Temujin's sibling he would share. Being an only child, she was always curious about what it was like to grow up with a close sibling.\n\nOf course, as soon as he mentioned the festival, her thoughts seemed to refocus again. \"Ah! You spoke with Moshi Mai-sama? Did she fill you in about our plans for the festival? I may have recently gotten in a bit of trouble, so I don't wish to let anything slip I'm not supposed to. Not that I think you would report me... But...\" She giggled a bit.\n\n\"Aside from that bit of trouble, rather well, though a bit boring. It's more of a day to be stuck in the embassy than out in the city, I'm afraid. Still, I doubt you wish to hear me complain, T- Shinjo-san. I should be grateful to not have too much excitement today!\"\n\n*Well... So much for that.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "He blushed when he heard her say she'd prefer it to be him, though he tried in vain to will his cheeks to fade to their usual shade of sun-kissed brown. But he did smile when she commented on his brother; she always had such innocent curiosity about sibling relations.\n\n\"Sometimes humour, but always for my benefit. I learned to read between the lines before we ended up estranged altogether.\" Temujin said with a deadpan delivery and a smirk.\n\nA look of curiosity crossed his brows, one eyebrow raised quizically.\n\n\"She hasn't mentioned anything to me, no. But my, my. Are you asking me to keep a secret for you, Moshi-san?\"\n\nA split second after that, his face fell and his eyes widened as he murmured a meek apology purely out of instinct.\n\n*Great. You had the presence of mind to not intrude on her bit of trouble here, but then you tease her. WHY AM I LIKE THIS? Oh, Kami, at least I didn't do the Corrupt Magistrate bit...\"Are you going to make it worth my while?\" Eurgh...*\n\nThat shut him up long enough, his jaw set tight, though he eased up when he heard her speak of her days. As always, the way she could be so cheerful but also awkward was endearing, heightened by the depths of compassion, wisdom, and courage he found in her.\n\nThat let him speak in turn, gently and reassuringly.\n\n\"Indoors or out, days of peace are always to be cherished, as Ide-sama told me,\" He said with fond nostalgia. And with that same wistful tone, he added \"When it was rainy. And he was making sure Kaede and I didn't skip our studies of the Fortunes.\"\n\nThe Shinjo chuckled at that memory, and pressed forward. His cheeks were warm, but their blush had faded for now as he spoke.\n\n\"I'm always happy to hear from you, Moshi-san. I'm on my way out, but may I ask if you could see me off?\"\n\nHe then turned to one section of the embassy's reception area where two of Mai's staff were pretending (badly) to clean the furnishings.\n\n**\"I wouldn't want to disturb anyone here.\"**\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana chuckled at his comment. \"I take it he's not quite as skilled at banter as you are, then? Though, ah... No need for secret keeping!\" She held up her hands. \"Let me just say I'm learning to use sama a bit more liberally. And perhaps save some of the ship jokes for the ship.\"\n\nKana nodded emphatically as she often did when trying to convince herself that she was handling a situation adeptly. She had always enjoyed the light, humorous repartee between the two of them, and it was one of many things that made Temujin so easy to talk to and connect with.\n\n\"Ide-sama is right. And ah! I do so love a rainy day...\" She added wistfully. Though at the mention of Kaede, there was that little pang of guilt. That part might not be so easy to address. Still, it wasn't yet intense enough for her to be wearing it on her face. She did see the opportunity to tease as a bit of a distraction, however. \"Oh? Are you suggesting you weren't always the most dutiful student, Shinjo-san?\"\n\nShe giggled, still blushing a bit, though the intensity of it had dampened. \"Oh, of course. I'd be happy to see you off. We Mantis aren't so easily, disturbed, but um...\" She stole a glance to the others watching, \"Best to be safe, I suppose!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "His expression was visibly glad to hear her troubles were at least manageable. And being so close with her, he shared her chuckle over her sailor's mouth.\n\n\"Trust me, I've been there. It's something the Ide train into anyone studying with them and I *Still* Forget sometimes. Though I heard more jokes than I told, usually involving a horse's... Parts.\"\n\nIt gradually occured to him how awkward it was to mention Kaede. Kana may have been glad to let him confide in her, but given certain feelings...\n\nHe let out a short, relieved breath, hearing her speak of rainy days and his time as a student.\n\n*She's such a good friend to me. The least I can do is make her happy. But... What does that mean?*\n\n\"I'll have you know I was a most devoted student!\" He remarked in feigned defensiveness, softening with a mischievous wink as he added \"Just not always of what was in front of me.\"\n\nAnd as she agreed to escort him, he smiled with unmasked happiness, bowing shortly.\n\n\"My thanks, Moshi-san.\"\n\nThey walked at a leisurely pace. It felt familiar and comfortable to him by now, which he was wholeheartedly glad for.\n\n\"And speaking of the festival, have you any plans for it yourself, Moshi-san?\" He asked with light curiosity as they walked towards the entrance.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana burst out into a decidedly undignified laugh as Temujin related the kinds of jokes he had heard. While she knew the Unicorn weren't quite as stuffy as the great clans, she had no idea they went quite *That* Far. She'd definitely have to ask Temujin about some of those jokes at some point.\n\nWhile she did blush a little bit at her own outburst, she found she was nowhere nearly as self conscious as she might have been had it been anyone else but Temujin. The laughter continued as he responded.\n\n\"Ignoring the curriculum? What a scandalous indiscretion!\" She continued to tease. \"Though I suppose an open mind can lead to greater wisdom, if you're anything to go by.\"\n\nShe walked with Temujin through the embassy to the entrance, trying to pay no mind to the slight flutter in her chest at his smile. \n\n\"Well! For the festival, I'll be participating in the event we had planned,\" She replied. While she was certain it was nothing confidential, she still wanted to be vague in case Mai wanted to make a big show of announcing the tournament. \"Aside from that though, I've nothing planned. I'll likely try to watch the fireworks, OH and the food! I'll definitely need to sample the food. What of you, Shinjo-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "He laughed and joked with her, feeling very much at ease (though he clarified that his senseis made sure to beat attentiveness into him). It felt good. It felt nice, to know that even with duty and the city's woes, he had a friend he could fully be himself around.\n\nWhen she mentioned she was performing, his brows lifted in eager curiosity.\n\n\"Really? I'll have to take a look if I can. Whatever it is, I'm sure you'll do great.\"\n\nShe spoke of her plans, satisfying his curiosity. And when asked, he replied in turn.\n\n\"Hm, don't believe I'm involved in any events, unless Utaku-sama decides to drop a *Very* Sudden honour on me. But honestly? Probably the same as you.\"\n\nIt wasn't something he'd considered, though he liked festivals. From the pauses, it would seemed he spoke whatever thoughts came to mind, trying to arrange them.\n\n\"I'm looking forward to the fireworks of course... Oh, and festivals always get the restaurants and vendors out in full force. Could mean a great walk seeing them trying to outdo each other. Might also be a good time to look for gifts. Though I doubt a festival mask is what you'd give the Crab.\"\n\nSoon, they reached the entrance, the outdoors just a few feet away. He felt a little disappointed that he was already here, but he faced Kana with an honest smile.\n\n\"Thank you for seeing me out, Moshi-san.\" Temujin said, his attention focused on the priestess of Amaterasu. \"It's always a pleasure to speak with you. Although...\"\n\nHe paused, their eyes meeting. He could hear his heart beating, feel his face grow warm.\n\n*And I'd like to speak more. We should speak more.*\n\nThose were the only thoughts on his mind, desire and necessity mingled. Going with the conversation's flow, he spoke.\n\n**\"...I was wondering if perhaps you'd like to see the fireworks with me?\"**\n\n*...What did I just say?*\n\n***You absolute fool, what are you doing???***\n\n*But... Is it right to want it?*\n\nHe'd spoken with nervous hope. He reacted with shocked, dismayed realisation.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"You think so, Shinjo-san? Well, then I hope I don't disappoint. I've actually been training quite a lot for it!\" She announced, the pride in her voice evident. She was sure this meant that Temujin would be spectating now, but if anything that just gave her more motivation to get things right there. \n\nShe nodded as she listened to him talk about his own plans for the fireworks. She was certain he probably knew all the best spots to see them from both in and around the city. She'd almost certainly have to pick his brain to see where he suggested! \n\n\"Ah! I see you also tend to think with your stomach around festival time,\" Kana replied with a chuckle. \"I find that's when you can try the most interesting sorts of combinations. It is... Regrettable, sometimes,\" She began, thinking of some less than pleasant experiences with festival food, \"But then again, isn't that just part of the fun? And well... If the Crab don't want a festival mask, I'd be happy to take one!\" She joked.\n\nThen came the question, and that flutter in her chest came back. This time it was much harder to ignore.\n\n*That's not a completely unusual request, right? But what if it's meant to be something more? What about Kaede? Oh Fortunes I'm so glad that the others aren't here to see this...* She went back and forth about the potential response and what it could mean. They were friends after all; friends could see fireworks together!\n\nYet... There was that part of both of them that maybe went a bit further than just that...\n\nAs she considered what to say, she could see Temujin's expression change. *Ah! You can't leave him out there like that!* That suddenly made her decision easier.\n\n\"It would be my honor, Shinjo-san!\" She blurted out.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "He was stammering after his shocked silence, stuttering without a coherent thought.\n\n\"Ah, not that you have... I mean, as fr... Not that I was tr... Guh... It's-\"\n\n*I can't... I shouldn't... I mean, she's cheering for me and Kaede. And we* Are *Friends, so this is going as friends, right? I really did want to spend time with her. But if there's really something there, does it change it? Am I being unfaithful? Selfish?*\n\n*I just don't want to hurt her.*\n\nBut then, like sunshine after a storm, she replied to him, looking just as nervous but hopeful.\n\n*Oh. That makes me happy.*\n\nThe unmasked concern faded, though the nervousness stayed in a crooked but honest smile as he fidgeted in place, clenching and unclenching his hands.\n\nHe *Did* Want to invite her as a friend. But he also didn't deny his heart skipped a beat and was filled with youthful glee.\n\n*...Like my first festival with Kaede. ...Kami, what am I doing with myself?*\n\n*...I have to settle this. She deserves the truth.*\n\nWhile his heart was thundering, Temujin finally had the presence of mind to do a quick bow in gratitude.\n\n\"Then I'll look forward to it. Thank you, Moshi-san.\"\n\nThe Shinjo had a quick look around by the entrance, trying hard to will his intense blush to fade while he was at it. And seeing there seemed to be no one else around... He extended an open hand to the priestess.\n\n\"You might have heard, but this is a greeting in my Clan... And one way to seal promises.\"\n\nHe said that with earnest friendship, open and relaxed as he tended to be. But not half a second later, that earlier nervousness returned, his expression abashed as he tried to avert his gaze, looking down to his own hand.\n\n\"Uh. Only if you want to,\" He stammered. \"I know we aren't supposed to touch unless there's an emergency, so you don't have to-\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was smiling nervously, yet brightly as she had delivered her response. She had found herself looking forward much more to the fireworks festival now that she had someone to attend it with. All the better is was her dear friend, the good hearted, rather handsome-\n\n*No! Friends! You're attending as friends!*\n\nThe pangs of guilt grew stronger still. She kept trying to remind herself about Kaede, and how she had spoke in support of Temujin's relationship with her. Temujin had been such a good friend to her, and yet here she was having such thoughts! Not to mention, even if he the two did act on their feelings, what would happen to their friendship should something more not work out? True friends were rare, and rarer still in Ryoko Owari Toshi.\n\nAnd yet she knew that there were circumstances preventing that relationship from being fully realized, and that she couldn't completely deny her own heart as well. Hadn't Temujin himself said her heart deserved better than the experiences she had?\n\nThere was reflection to be done and things to be figured out, to be sure. Still, wasn't it enough to just enjoy the fireworks with someone who regardless of anything else, was special to her?\n\nShe then noticed his outstretched hand.\n\n\"Oh, I mean... I want... Not in that way, I mean, not, not... Um...\"\n\nOverriding her muddled thoughts, she took his hand gently, only barely shaking it.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "There was an audible gulp as she took his hand, and it was only partly out of surprise that the gesture was accepted.\n\nHe held her hand lightly and shook it gently, trying not to think of her touch. After a shake or two, he released his hold with a shy smile.\n\n\"Thank you, Kana-san. I'll look forward to it. And we-\"\n\nTemujin caught himself with a sharp intake of breath. Mustering his resolve, he closed his eyes and took a deep, calming breath, opening them again to properly face her.\n\n\"...I have some things to discuss with you. As a friend.\"\n\nHe did his best to watch his tone. But he was surprised by how reluctant he felt inside with that last part.\n\n*Does accepting my feelings have to feel so... Selfish?*\n\nBut seeing Kana being cheerful but shy, just being herself, made him smile. Helped to calm him. Reminded him he was truly lucky to have met and befriended her, though right now he had to fight himself to keep his gaze upon her lovely face rather than glancing lower...\n\n\"Now I'd better get going before I make an even bigger fool of myself.\" Temujin said with a nervous laugh. \"But I'll look forward to your performance!\"\n\nThe Unicorn bowed one last time. It was respectful, but not so deep as to be formal, knowing how comfortable they were with each other.\n\n\"May the Four Winds be at your back, Moshi-san. Be well, always.\"\n\nHis words were warm and sincere. But as he felt some of that warmth returning to his head, he'd only stick around long enough to hear her reply before he left.\n\n*She's truly a good friend. And as her friend, I need to be honest with her. She deserves to know the truth... Not get strung along with whatever this is.*\n\n*...I just hope I can figure out what that truth is by the time of the festival.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana tried *Very* Hard not to think of how her heart beat faster as their hands touched. It definitely wasn't unpleasant, however. \n\nShe quickly came back to earth as there was the talk of things that needed to be discussed.\n\n*Oh. Does he mean good things? Is it good things? Wait... That also sounds somewhat ominous... Though he did say as a friend! It's got to be good things! Oh Fortunes the anticipation...*\n\nKana suppressed this and responded with a nod, and a happy but awkward smile. There would be time for guilt and worry afterwards.\n\n\"I look forward to our conversation, Temujin,\" She replied, using his name now that she was certain there was no one else about. Regardless of what the conversation was, it still meant time spent with him. \"Oh, and the fireworks! Those too.\" She giggled. \"If it helps, you can't have made more a fool of yourself than I have. Though I suppose the most important thing is that we can be fools together.\"\n\nShe returned the bow. \"May Amaterasu light and bless your path. Now and always.\"\n\nHer smile hid a storm of emotions, leaving her almost glad for the paperwork today as a distraction.\n\n||"
}
] | 358 | 4,960 |
296.5 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "trilsai",
"message": "Having left a couple of days for the business at the palace to settle, the second Unicorn arrived at the Mantis holding in the middle of the morning. Kenza was dressed well, but felt less out-of-place amidst the people here. Another Clan that understands other cultures, he considered. Enrobed in purple and gold the trader then paced up towards the entrance with an envelope and wrapped gift in his hands. Light eyes looked from awning to window and garden patch, interested to see how the fellow traders conducted themselves and observe what influences they had adopted.\n\nKenza stopped at the entrance proper and offered the first attendant close a polite dip of the head.\n\"Good morning. I'd like to speak to the ambassador if time permits it, please.\" Any Samurai that passed caught his attention, though he knew better than to stare and had the presence of mind to bow a little when they moved by.\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "It had been a few days since the ordeal at the palace, and Moshi Mai was still fuming about it. \n\nThe servants had been lucky enough that the ronin Chiyoko took the brunt of the shugenja's ire, which she seemed much more capable of handling. There had been a few... Screaming matches, to put it lightly, but seeing as how Mai's yojimbo was still in one piece and not burned, things weren't reaching dangerous levels. \n\nNo, Mai was just frustrated. Her first conference, her first real court outing, and she looked a fool, thanks to Bayushi Orochi's foolhardy scheme, and her complete and utter lack of knowledge on the plan even happening. It put her in a horribly anxious state, so much so she was slacking in her duties. In the aftermath, Yoritomo Yuichi excused himself from the embassy, surely because of Mai's lack of leadership and direction. \n\nSo, that is all to say that when she was told by the servants that one Ide no Suio Kenza was here to see her, she quickly refused. \"Send him away,\" She grumbled, lounging about on her raised dias of pillows. \"I don't want to deal with anyone.\" \n\n\"Moshi-sama,\" Chiyoko interrupted, \"This might not be wise. If the Unicorn are here to speak to _us,_ maybe-\"\n\n\"Oh, did I ask you to speak, Cyclops?\" Mai shot a look at her bodyguard. \"Talk back again and I'll make you blinder than that woman you got into a gang fight with.\"\n\n\"Even with no eyes, I'd still see it's stupid to put off doing my _job,_ Moshi-sama.\" Chiyoko spoke out of turn again, but leveled her gaze on her superior all the same. \"Forgive me, but you need to keep your head up. The Scorpion and the Unicorn looked the fool, not you. If anything, I think it's good you weren't involved with some foolish scheme like that.\" \n\n\"The day I need a ronin's opinion and advice is the day the world falls to Fu Leng.\" Mai rubbed her eyes, and thought for a moment. \"Well, call the Crab, for we have Oni to fight.\" \n\n\"Um... Moshi-sama?\"\n\n\"I mean, bring him in, you idiot.\" Chiyoko bowed, and instructed a servant to fetch Kenza. \n\nKenza would be led into the main hall, where Mai was now standing by a small meeting table, crushed green velvet pillows on each side. Chiyoko stood a few yards away to give them space, but close enough to get in close, if necessary. \n\n\"Moshi-sama, I present Ide no Suio Kenza, Financier in Ryoko Owari Toshi on behalf of the Unicorn Clan.\" The servant bowed, and stepped away. \n\n\"Well, well,\" Mai chuckled, \"I wasn't expecting to see Unicorn on my doorstep. I figured my 'ally' would keep your lot far away. Nice to see I was wrong.\" She gave a polite bow, and offered a seat. \"Would you like tea? Name the style, and I assure you, we'll have it.\" \n ||"
},
{
"author": "trilsai",
"message": "The second Unicorn offered a respectful bow with a slow sway of his topknot, then thought first to offer the gift to Moshi Mai. \n\"I've brought a small thing for you. It is nothing, really.\" The wrapped box was offered once, twice and then thrice. A lidded wooden box, wrapped in teal paper. The contents made no sound.\n\n\n\n\"Jasmine would be splendid, Moshi-sama. Thank you for taking the time to speak with me.\" The trader was then seated and took little time to centre himself. Despite the situation at the palace, he seemed collected.\n\n\"If you would permit it, I have come to discuss a proposal. Nothing so bold as allies or enemies - I simply wish for peace and prosperity. Where possible, to share this with all of the Clans.\" Kenza waited a while then and listened while they waited for the tea. The vassal was well dressed and softly spoken, but as he had been last they met, the tension that may have lingered in the room seemed not to affect him. Once the tea arrived, he was content to pour it and served Moshi before himself. \n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The gift was denied twice, and accepted, as is traditional. A silly custom, as far as Mai was concerned; she wanted the present, dammit, why not just accept? Either way, she took a moment to open it, and her smile was clear on her lips. \"You humble young man,\" She said, \"Claiming such a beautiful thing is 'nothing really.' I would say I'd wear it next time I must go to court, but I feel court is the _last_ place I want to step foot for some time.\" \n\nShe ordered the servants to get them tea, and turned her full attention back to Kenza. \"It's of no issue to me, Ide-san. The Mantis are a lot more accommodating than one is led to believe.\"\n\nThe proposal gave her some pause, but not in a bad way. \"Hm. A proposal for peace and prosperity, eh?\" She kept her hands in her lap, open to the idea, somewhat. \"I have often said that the youth are so full of grand, if not foolhardy ideas, but if there was a foolish notion I always approve of, it's peace and prosperity.\" She chuckled at her little tease, and waited for the tea to be poured by the polite Unicorn. \n\nShe sipped, so he could partake himself, and conversation continued. \"I am open to a proposal,\" She said, \"As I have never seen all that difference between our clans. We both get called Gaijin behind our backs and have to prove ourselves at every turn. And we aren't so scared of the outside world as to not bend it to our will. I can respect the Unicorn for that. \n\n\"However, I must ask, on whose authority are you making this proposal? I would have assumed Ambassador Nakato-sama would be the one to speak to me. Or is he not wishing to make any appearances?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "trilsai",
"message": "Kenza seemed pleased that she had opened the gift now and shared her smile, though at the mention of avoiding court he simply nodded and batted his thin brows in quiet agreement. \n\"I would have enjoyed more chances to meet with the Mantis. With our cousins, the Kitsune, now counted among you as kin perhaps more opportunities will arise.\" \nHe sounded hopeful, but eased a moment to pour the tea. He sipped a moment after the ambassador and seemed to enjoy the selection. A short moment was spared to enjoy the aroma of the drink before he continued.\n\n\"We have more in common than most, Moshi-sama.\" He agreed in his gentle manner, but listened to Mai and considered his words carefully before he replied.\n\"I share the responsibility of representing the Unicorn for the foreseeable future, Moshi-sama. Ide-sama has withdrawn and I am the hatamoto.\" Kenza lifted his cup to enjoy a little more tea, letting his gaze move from Moshi to the room and the desk from moment to moment. He did this so as not to stare, and his posture suggested that he was comfortable and content.\n\n\"My bazaar will soon arrive, bringing with it a safe place for the Clans to meet and trade in peace. A place for merchants and patrons. All of the Clans, in time, will be allowed there if it can be arranged. I would like to invite you and your kin to join me there, Moshi-sama.\"\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "So far, things had been cordial, and Mai was enjoying this much more reasonable meeting with the Unicorn. She hadn't had strong opinions on them for the most part, thinking them just another Great Clan among the rest, but with more kindred of spirits. And then the conference put them in a different light, with things making it all the more difficult. But now... Well, this fellow knew his manners, at least. \n\n\"I see. Well, congratulations, Hatamoto Ide-sama. I'll pray that you serve with distinction.\" This was a very good thing for Mai, at least. She wasn't sure she'd have much leeway with Ide Nakoto, the way things had gone. But now, after that debacle, a change of positions and a kind meeting meant that the Unicorn was needing to make some rapid movements. Good. \n\n\"A bazaar sounds just what this city needs,\" Mai replied. \"Honestly, I'm no much for money, even more than most of us Samurai, but I had noticed that it's hard to find imports in a city like this that aren't marked up to embarrassing prices. A trading bazaar would be a nice tough. _And_ a nice middle ground for us Clans.\" She sipped at her tea, and mulled it over. Surely, there was more to this. But, she couldn't figure what. \"I can see no reason to refuse,\" Moshi Mai replied, \"So I will not. Your invitation is definitely accepted. The Mantis would be honored to join in this endeavor.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "trilsai",
"message": "Kenza seemed pleased that the lady Moshi appeared agreeable and offered her a seated bow. He then smiled and drank his tea once it was polite for him to do so. \"A thousand splendid suns, Moshi-sama. Proper space will be made for your kin to setup stalls, with space for storage and relaxation. Capable men and women from my Clan will be arriving to keep the bazaar both safe and running, but you will of course be allowed to bring protection of your own if you so desire. The arrangements are written up within this letter, should you wish to refer back to them later.\"\nHe offered the neatly folded envelope with both hands and a downward cant of his head, foreign topknot falling over his left shoulder as he did.\n\nUpon straightening up and composing the smile away from his face, Kenza inquired with a mild though curious tone:\n\"Are there any concerns or questions that I might resolve for you, Moshi-sama? It occurs to me that we've spoken relatively little, though it seems this has begun to mend.\"\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai listened to the details, and was pleased to see the Unicorn pleased as well. This was good; they could still be civilized after all that mess. It was almost _too_ nice, but Mai knew better than to overthink things. Too much strain on the heart. \n\n\"Oh, we'll be bringing our own guards in,\" She replied, \"But trust me, I have sure confidence in the Unicorn and their kind. Unlike some of these clans, I know that you're an honorable lot. A little rambunctious, but my Clan would say that's a boon, not a curse.\" She took the letter, giving a respectable nod, and set it down for now, to show she trusted the man's words at their face value. \"If we're candid here, the Mantis have no quarrel with the Unicorn; you dominate the land trade, we the sea. We share cultures in our many in one. Honestly, it's the _company_ you keep that puts us at odds, Ide-san.\" \n\nSipping more tea, she thought of any concerns she may have. \"I feel that I should explain a little on the incident at the conference,\" She said. \"I won't get into details, as far as I am concerned, I am still allied with your rival in this city dispute. But, as I noted at that horrid dinner, I was not aware of any foolishness that was brought about by Shosuro Orochi-sama. What that foolishness is, I will not say. But, perhaps in the future. If things change and you find yourself wanting a more _likeminded_ ally... Well, We seem to talk easily enough, hm? Just a thought.\" \n\n\"As for any questions, I _am_ curious: The Unicorn's stake on Ryoko Owari Toshi: What are your thoughts? I haven't had the chance to ask anyone of your Clan this directly. Forgive my bluntness, but if you intend to make nice with me, it will definitely come out a lot more often than not, ha!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "trilsai",
"message": "Kenza gave the lady Moshi a rather knowing look at the mentioned of 'company' but didn't directly reply to her. Perhaps he agreed. \"It was an exciting evening, to be sure, Moshi-sama.\" He murmured in a similarly knowing tone before he lifted his tea and perked up, straightening his back some. \n\"I held Ide-sama with great respect, but he is unlikely to remain in the city. The truth is that I had no disagreement with the Scorpion until they apparently incited the Lion to declare war upon my kin. It was politics alone, not personal animosity. These aren't painted on, I see things as well as any Samurai.\" He made a gesture to his soft hazel eyes with a faint sound of the wooden and metallic bangles around his wrist jingling together.\n\nThe Unicorn took a moment to consider and compose, despite their candidness. \"We do speak more plainly than most. I, likewise, don't see this as a flaw.\" He offered a small smile that suited him better than the serious mien he'd just chased away.\n\"My great ancestors are buried here. They've become the earth that the Scorpion now turn to grow opium, and that the Lion bore the horse-killing blade over. The Scorpion, too, have ancestry here now. The Lion, for their supposed reverence of the ancestors, certainly didn't consider mine with their stunt.\"\nKenza lifted his tea once more to drink before he continued, his tone lighter but with a considered hesitation as he picked his words.\n\"I think both Clans have a fair claim. At this point I'd accept what the Imperials decree once our claim is considered properly. The others of my Clan may feel differently, but the truth is that the Unicorn are more than our Ki-Rin ancestors. We grew into the Clan we are today over our exodus. I mean no disrespect to those who came before, only that we've been foreigners a lot longer than we've been Rokugani.\"\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai gave Kenza silence and allowed him to speak freely, with no interruptions. Ancestry was a fair enough claim to stake on, if proven, and if she was fair (and a touch generous), cities traded hands often. Her Clan was well aware of this, handing over much of their mainland holdings to the Crane Clan. She could not outright deny the logical and emotional reasoning the Unicorn just gave her. \n\nShe placed her teacup down and crossed her arms, eyes closed as she took in the information given. \"I see.\" She wasn't one to mull things over, but she forced herself to do so, and not to panic, either. It was difficult, but necessary. \"As someone not blessed enough to born a full Rokugani, I can understand that. I carry Gaijin blood in my veins, which did my no favors among the Centipede, when we were just so. I say this to explain I understand the Unicorn a lot better than most. The Mantis have had to earn their keep since the beginning, and had to fight the horrors of the accursed Fu Leng just to earn a spot at the table. I can certainly respect the Unicorn's desire to earn the city they feel they are owed. \n\n\"And yet, we stand on opposite sides of the dias.\" She let out a wry chuckle, and relaxed her arms. \"That's fate for you, hm? All the same, anyone willing to reach out an offer of peace is someone I can get behind. Unless something changes, consider the Mantis and the Unicorn on peaceful terms. If you have to act against us in the future, no hard feelings. Simple politics, as you say. But for now, I could use less of a headache in my life. One Great Clan's ire is more than enough for me.\" \n\nAs a sign of respect, Moshi Mai extended her hand to shake. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "trilsai",
"message": "This time Suio remained quiet and listened to Moshi as she spoke. The man nodded from time to time and appeared to share empathy with her, two half-gaijin at tea. The gesture that followed wasn't lost on Kenza, who took her hand and shook it firmly. When he returned his hand he looked pleased they'd reached agreement and smiled then to enjoy a little more tea.\n\"That you've had to fight for your place in the Empire is a familiar tale.\"\nHe added with a considered smile. He sounded sincere enough, and was either a capable actor or a relatively relaxed Samurai.\n\n\"I'll be meeting with the other Unicorn leaders soon. They shall be advised that we've found mutual ground and agreement. Regarding the Crane, if I might remain plain a while longer, those they've sent to this city I find lacking. We shall see what the future holds. The other Unicorn, though.. I believe they too will rejoice that we might trade and become greater together.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "A firm handshake. It was still not something she was used to, but she didn't mind it as much as she thought she would. A simple gesture through touch showing a familiarity and respect, this handshaking business was rather ingenious. Of course, it'd never catch on, but Mai liked it for what it was. \n\n\"If you're not willing to fight for it, surely it didn't matter,\" Mai commented. \"So, I hold no grudges with those that think us savages. We earned our place at the table, by Emperor's decree... Nothing else matters.\"\n\nWith the business attended to, all was said that must be said. \"I'll notify my traders and the leaders back at the isles of this understanding between us,' she replied, \"And I feel they will be most pleased.\" She called for one of her servants, and gave some quick instructions. \"Prepare some jasmine for Ide no Suio-san, will you? Enough for a few week's worth of tea.\" She looked back at the Unicorn, smiling. \"Consider it a gift and a sign of good faith. Though, you'll need to get the next batch from our shop at _your_ bazaar, hm?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "trilsai",
"message": "Kenza seemed content to have been received well, the satisfied smile broadened as Mai announced the gift of tea.\n\"Thank you, my lady. I'll long enjoy more of this fine tea. Perhaps we might do further business, and I shall see what other wares your kin have to offer. We may even discuss trade route arrangements, but we have time enough to grow first.\"\n\nThe trader was happy to stay a while and chat, if Moshi remained hospitable. Kenza knew not to overstay his welcome and would then depart once tea was finished with another respectful bow.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "|| Indeed, I think we're all good. Let's say they had a nice chat until the conversation petered out and they called it a day!"
}
] | 272 | 4,151 |
376.2 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The twos conversation continues as they approach the Mantis Embassy,* \"I am not aware of the specifics of many of the cultures beyond the borders of Rokugan, but I know of the broad strokes.\" *The Mirumoto admits, an oversight she would correct with time given the living, breathing, vexing reason that walked alongside her embodied within a man.* \n\n\"You are of... Merenaen blood? *She questions uncertain if she had chosen the name of the right distant land. As while the Dragon dealt with those beyond the Empire to the north such cultures differed vastly from Rokugani's maritime opponents.*\n\n\"As for how you in specific came to be I do not believe I need a verbal retelling of such a tale,\" *The Magistrate swiftly assures him as the two approach the Embassy guards. The sanctity of Kishi's papers enough to ease some of the worry that had tensed the Mirumoto's shoulders. With luck the Bounty Hunter would see himself on his best behavior. As smoothing her hands over her yukata the Dragon offered a polite bow to the guards.*\n\n\"I am Magistrate Mirumoto Katsumi of the Dragon. My companion is Magistrate Tsuruchi Kishi of the Tsuruchi,\" *She introduces them both,* \"We would speak with the Mantis Ambassador should she see fit to grant us an audience.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "\"Indeed i am. I'll be sure to give you the details in time, after all i doubt my mother will look kindly upon me not introducing you two, given the circumstances she would likely have me keelhauled if i didn't... She still might if she doesn't meet you before the ceremony.\" *He lets out a laugh that's a bit more nervous than usual, and she can't be entirely sure if he is joking or serious.*\n\n*As the approach the guards, Kishi bows deeply, and says a short greeting after she finishes making introductions* \"We have important matters to discuss, and i am to report to her to provide assistance.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai was just finishing up one meeting when another arose. She quite literally dismissed Kitsune Meiko when Jūnko arrived and notified her that there were two magistrates here to see her. \n\n\"Hm? What now? Did you cause some sort of trouble, Jūn-chan?\"\n\n\"No, Mama Mai,\" The boatswain sighed, \"But they say it's important. Mirumoto Katsumi and Tsuruchi Kishi are here.\"\n\n\"...Tsuruchi? Hm.\" The shugenja hadn't had the honor of meeting the bounty hunter, but she was made aware that he would be on his way. What could he have gotten himself into with the Mirumoto woman?\n\n\"...Send them in. Bring out the sake this time around, since I think I'm done working numbers.\" \n\nThus, the pair of magistrates would be ushered in soon enough, to join the already sitting ambassador. \"Mirumoto Katsumi and Tsuruchi Kishi. Welcome.\" She offered the seats, once niceties were exchanged. \"I wasn't expecting another meeting,\" She explained, \"Or you, Tsuruchi-san. I take it you showed your travel papers to my magistrate, Moshi Kana?\n\n\"Either way, I doubt you're _both_ here for such a thing. What can I do for you?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "\"I did indeed show my papers to Moshi Kana-sama. She was quite taken aback to hear another magistrate was joining you in this fine city. I think perhaps she was concerned you were seeking a replacement.\" *He says with a polite smile.* \"I assured her i am merely here to help our efforts here while seeing to some more... Personal business. To which we are here to discuss.\" *He looks across to the dragon beside him* \"Though i feel it may be best to allow mirumoto-san speak to that topic in detail.\" \n\n*The ammbassador can likely see the Man before her is... Stressed. For all his appearance as a warrior, a simple conversation appears to be enough to raise the poor mans blood pressure. Not quite to the point of sweating, but his eyes certainly linger on the bottle of sake once it is provided.* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Mirumoto returns Mai's greeting with a polite bow of her own. Accepting the proffered seat with a smile. The woman was in comparably less a state then the nervous Tsuruchi, but those of Niten had always favored a relaxed calm making it difficult to ascertain. At least to unpracticed eyes, but given the Ambassadors yojimbo the mask of calm was obvious for what it was. A mask. A far more practiced one, but a mask nonetheless.* \"I do not know if Kitsune Tsuta-san passed along word yet, but one of the reasons for my arrival in the city was to settle the betrothal contract between my sister who has sense honorably departed and a member of your clan Moshi-sama.\" *The Mirumoto explains as she carefully indicates the Traveling Magistrate at her side.*\n\n\"As the marriage never took place it left matters unclear thus my family wished to approach Tsuruchi-san and the Mantis in regards to either transferring the betrothal contract to a still living member of my family which would be myself or peacefully dissolve it. As the Dragon have no wish to cause slight.\" *The Magistrate elaborates,* \"But likewise we understand that the betrothal may bare renegotiation given the unique circumstances of both the Dragon clan and the Tsuruchi-family in regards to our status.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Was she now? Ha! Poor thing. I'd hardly remove a fellow Moshi from a position she carries well.\" Mai was amused by the prospect of Kana being worried. The only time she saw the woman be worried was when that anonymous letter came to the embassy. Oh, and whenever _Temujin_ came around. All the sudden she would stammer and get so flustered... Hm.\n\n\"Anyway,\" Mai said with a clearing of the throat, \"Back to the topic at hand.\"\n\nAnd it turned out the topic at hand was marriage. A very complicated situation, at that. This Dragon's sister was to marry the Wasp, but the poor girl passed before this could occur. And indeed, the responsibility fell on Katsumi's shoulders. \"I see.\" The servant Junko arrived with the sake, which she was ordered to hastily pour for Mai, especially. She took a big sip, and took a moment to mull it over. \n\n\"First of all, Mirumoto-san, I pray your sister is warm in the Lady's embrace, or finds herself in higher standing when she returns. And I respect you for honoring a deal made by your family. It would have been easy to forget it ever happened, and pursue your own interests. Truly, honor before the self at play. The same for you, Tsuruchi-san. I know you not, but I've heard well enough to know this isn't something you'd want to find yourself entangled in. I will say, you could do much worse, hm! She's quite fetching. \n\n\"But, you didn't come to me for compliments. You're here because I am the ambassador.\" Mai's expression went analytical, and she stood a little straighter as she started to put things into motion. \"The Mantis have never had issue with the Dragon, as far as I am aware, and less so the Centipede of the Moshi. From time to time we trade for your ores, but I cannot think of any great endeavors between the two. Other than all that arrived on the Second Day of Thunder, of course. \n\n\"In other words, there is nothing in history that would call for such a union to be a slight or a disgrace. You are both Magistrates back in your respective lands, so waiving other accolades you're both of equal or close standing. Tsuruchi-san is older, but that doesn't always mean... Hm...\" \n\nMai let out a small sigh. \"This is not an easy decision. Mirumoto-san, a question. If I gave the choice to you, to either uphold your family's promise or wipe the slate clean of the deal, which would you choose? The same question for you, Tsuruchi-san.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Kishi clears his throat, shifting a bit in his seat and taking an equally deep sip of sake as Mai* \"Well. In the event the decision were left upto us, Mirumoto-san and I thought it best to discuss it to some degree, and we seem to be in agreement that it would be best for us to uphold the contract. I am as you say older, and... Well... As you have said i could most certainly do much worse...\" *He smiles despite himself, clearing his throat again and attempting to recollect his face.* \"I believe the primary concern between the both of us, though i invite Mirumoto-san to speak to it as well if i am mistaken, is who's family the other will be marrying into. Given both the Mirumoto and Tsuruchi Families are both intent on growing their numbers given current events.\" \n\n*Kishi looks across to Katsumi, and back to the ambassador. Its rather clear that this is the primary cause for the Bushi's stress. The wasp were known for the strong ties that bind their family together. Loyalty above all else, even honor. Even swearing to not so much as draw one another's blood in settling disputes. To say nothing of the Merenae in his soul imparting a similarly strong sense of duty to ones blood.* \n\n*And of course, it wasn't hard to see how a mantis who'd taken the name Kishi would be devastated if relegated to the mountains, far from the crashing waters of the sea.* \"But we both understand that decision lies mostly outside of our grasp, and would ultimately lie in the hands of our ambassadors if not even farther above us, Moshi-Senpai\""
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Thank you Moshi-sama my sister shall be missed,\" *The Mirumoto murmurs offering the Ambassador a bow of thanks. While she and Misaki had never seen eye to eye the loss of her elder sister had come as a shock even if the Mirumoto yojimbo had perished most honorably in the line of her duty.*\n\n\"My Father is an honorable man and the Mirumoto are a family true to their word,\" *Katsumi spoke,* \"It is as you have said. The Mantis and The Dragon have never had cause to clash. Our interests lay in differing matters and both our traditions and cultures are oft times little understood by our neighboring clans.\" *The Magistrate explains as she chooses her words with care. If given a choice would she choose to walk away? To turn a blind eye to such a promise? The Mirumoto and the Dragon as a whole were in need of new blood and desperately so. Their numbers dwindling dangerously low. To bind themselves to the Mantis who had no reason to turn against their clan was not such an ill-made match.*\n\n\"I would choose to honor the betrothal Moshi-sama should a suitable agreement be reached,\" *The Mirumoto intoned with a slow incline of their head. Her expression a mask of calm even if the woman's jade eyes sparked with worry.*\n\n\"I believe as Tsuruchi-san has mentioned the issues arise in regards to the fact the betrothal terms were originally intended for my elder sister,\" *Katsumi explains as the woman keeps her hands folded in her lap, sleeves obscuring the white knuckle grip upon her own fingers,* \"The standing of a Clan Magistrate and a Traveling Magistrate are close enough to be comparable, but the Wasp as a younger clan are in need of growing their numbers while the Dragon clan face the same crisis and can ill afford to lose not only one of their Samurai, but a Shugenja.\" *The Magistrate elaborates as a few stray strands of flaming crimson hair fall across the Mirumoto's face. The woman stilling the tremble that runs through her fingers as she carefully brushes the locks back behind her ear with a tentative smile polite and affable.*\n\n\"And with our Ambassador's attention elsewhere I do not believe I can yet set aside my work within Ryoko Owari Toshi Moshi-sama.\" *She admits for while the thought of traveling appealed to the Mirumoto her family could ill afford to end with her. The thought of leaving her work unfinished and the Dragon Embassy once more empty save for the monks who held little interest to see to their clans affairs weighed heavily upon her shoulders.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Hearing the both of them out, Mai sipped her sake. She didn't say anything immediately though, and merely nodded. \"I see both of your points,\" She said, \"And I can respect your desires to honor the promises set by our clans. \n\n\"Now, if I understand the history of it, the original ruling was that if the Tsuruchi won that kyujutsu contest, the marriage would commence. That leads me to believe that to the victor, the spoils -ah, not to say that Mirumoto-san or her late sister are spoils, surely grand prizes of love and beauty. All the same, I would be of the opinion that, if this marriage is to continue, Mirumoto Katsumi-san would join the Mantis Clan as Tsuruchi Katsumi, betrothing Kichi-san accordingly. That is the most logical outcome. \n\n\"Naturally, I would want to have the Dragon Ambassador weigh in,\" Mai sighed, \"But from what I understand, no one sees the fellow as of late. If this is to lie completely on my shoulders, that is my verdict. Mirumoto should honor the competition, and marry into the Tsuruchi Family.\" \n\nMai poured more sake, and filled any empty cups. This was all rather tiring, especially since marriage was hardly the romantic thing one hoped for. She herself didn't know hers was love until after she was betrothed. \"Now, I can understand if there's disagreement with that,\" She said, \"But that is how I see it. We can certainly try to discuss this more, or bring in family members or the mysterious Dragon Ambassador. I will ask that you both spend more time together, but perhaps not in the _Dragon Gatehouse?\"_ \n\nShe smirked, eyes locking on Kishi like a viper. \"Honestly, Tsuruchi-san. I can see she is beautiful, but so beautiful to not bother to see your ambassador? Surely I'm not so ghastly that I would have to wait until it was convenient, hm?\" \n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Mirumoto listens in silence as they incline their head,* \"I have heard your verdict Moshi-sama, but I would ask the Dragon Ambassador to oversee the contract as I would not leave my family without further heirs.\" *Katsumi points out her voice soft and firm, the calm of the mountain before a great gale.*\n\n\"While I am not opposed to tying myself to the Wasp I would like the contract to take into account any children born with the gifts of the kami and the complications that may arise in regards to my status as a shugenja. In addition to the Dragon's situation within Ryoko Owari Toshi,\" *Katsumi explains with a polite smile her sleeves concealing the woman's white knuckled grip upon her own hands.*\n\n\"For you have spoken truth in that the majority of the Ambassadors duties have fallen upon my shoulders with his attention turned elsewhere.\" *The Samurai admits with quiet reluctance and no small amount of tired resignation in regards to her absent 'boss.'*\n\n\"Respectfully I do not wish to leave my work yet undone and burden the monks of my clan. Thus delaying their paths towards enlightenment.\" *The Mirumoto murmurs offering the Ambassador a bow.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Kishi listens, nodding his head at first, listening to his ambassador speak. He doesn't disagree with the assessment, but grows more and more concerned as the dragon speaks. It was what he had wanted. One of his greatest fears of finally coming to terms with this betrothal was being castaway from the ocean mists and locked away in the mountains. To be ripped from both his families in one turn. As his prospective wife continues to speak he cannot help but feel a sense of responsibility to ensure her voice be heard.* \n\n \"I must agree with you Moshi-san, i will not hide my desire to remain a Tsuruchi. And it would seem in fairness given the nature of the reasons for the betrothal and our comparative statuses that she join us as a Tsuruchi herself.\" *He pauses as he thinks how best to frame this* \"But i would be a poor husband if i did not voice my agreement with Mirumoto-san on some of her concerns, Leaving her family without an heir and without her skills and position in this city as well as leaving them without her presence in the family is a valid concern.\" \n\n\"I would dread to think my legacy would be one of driving our great clans farther apart than geography has already, and would rather this be something we may all celebrate as the beginning of renewed co-operation and mutual benefit. In that interest, I think it is fair to ensure the dragon are not left wanting for shujenga in her absence from our children. Well. At least the first few who are blessed with the blessings of the Kami, I have great doubt our families will be found wanting of heirs in the coming decades, Perhaps by the third or forth we can consider the duty fulfilled.\"\n\n *He says with a completely straight face, but his eyes betray the internal laughter.*"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"It is of no concern of mine that your family did not have further heirs, Mirumoto-san,\" Mai retorted, \"But I am also not so callous as to say that they should have prepared for death or any other malady that could lead to these issues. Nevertheless, the deal seemed to be that if the Tsuruchi won, this wedding would take place.\" Mai had started jovial and teasing, but she continued on with a more serious tone. \n\nShe understood the woman's concerns. She wanted to cling to her family name as much as any, but there was more to it than just that. Even Mai knew of the troubles in the Dragon provinces. Low birth rates, fewer and fewer samurai... Surely, losing a shugenja would be a blow that would be hard to recover from. \n\nBut, she was a Mantis, not a Dragon, and she wouldn't just side with whichever sad story came her way. Family and Clan above all. Though, compassion was important as well... \n\n\"Enough.\" Mai put a hand up as Kishi started in his (admittedly funny) jest about heirs. \"I have said my piece and what I deem is just. Mirumoto Kitsumi-san must wed Tsuruchi Kishi-san. I will _not_ repeat myself.\n\n\n\n\"...However.\" Mai rubbed the back of her neck, rather unlady (or ambassadorly)-like. \"When I was to wed my dear late Yoritomo Tomoru, we made an agreement. I was a shugenja, and he a mighty captain, so we found ourselves at odds. But, to keep the peace, I became _his_ wife. But, we made conditions. First, any daughter we had would be a Moshi, and I would train her, if she was found to be blessed. Second, any son I birthed would be Yoritomo, blessed or not, and would follow in Tomoru's footsteps. Until the day my husband died, I was Yoritomo Mai, only reclaiming my name upon his death, ill-fated as it was.\n\n\"I say all of this to propose something that should make the both of you a little less nervous. Especially _you,_ red dragon.\" Mai chuckled, motioning at Katsumi. \"The Dragon have been found lacking in shugenja and children. I propose you do as I did, and any blessed one join your schools to be trained. By decree of marriage and carrying Dragon blood, they should be allowed, Tsuruchi or no. The Dragon, from what my ronin explains, can be much more accepting of such things. Likewise, if they are not blessed, they shall be taught in the ways of the Mantis. \n\n\"Furthermore, seeing as how the city is in such a state, the Dragon need a Magistrate. So, surely Katsumi-san should remain at her station as long as this conflict is going on, at _least_ until after Winter Court. And Wandering Kishi-kun here will remain as well, to aid _my_ Clan, and help the Dragon. It's only right to help one's love, hm?\"\n\nMai crossed her arms, and nodded to the both of them. \"Well?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Magistrate bore her grief well with the silent stoicism the Dragon were known for. The Mirumoto's usual fire giving way to quiet solemn reservation such as even Kishi's playful prodding could not manage to dust the Shugenja's cheeks with the bright blush he had seen color her features before beneath the morning sun. Her relationship with her homeland had been a tumultuous one at best, but Katsumi could not deny the love she harbored in her heart for the great mountains of the Dragon Land's. Nor the uncertainty of her place within the Mantis. The woman perched upon her seat still as a stone statue barely moving, barely breathing, like a figure cut of ice.*\n\n\"I have witnessed your orders Moshi-sama and will abide by them,\" *The Mirumoto intones unwilling to make the woman repeat herself and risk dishonor even if she felt as though she'd slit her own belly with each syllable. Kishi's discomfort and attempts to allay her worries easing the agony that stiffened her shoulders and sat heavy upon her chest strangling her voice within her throat.*\n\n*For a moment Katsumi believes it is done. The Shugenja already leaning forward to bow so that she might rise and depart that she might find solace elsewhere and unmask when Mai's voice brings her up short. The red dragon as the Mantis had called her pausing, jade eyes quickly darting up to focus upon the woman with a quiet fervent hope. The icy fear that had gripped the Mirumoto's heart slowly thawing before such a proposition. The knowledge that they would not yet, and may never need to, abandon their work with their clan and set aside their life's passion painting the future once bleak and forlorn with shades of expectation.*\n\n\"I and the Mirumoto would be grateful for such considerations Moshi-sama and though reclusive the Dragon are known for our long memories. Though I doubt the Mantis would need wait unduly to see our gratitude bear fruit.\" *Katsumi murmured her voice soft as she spoke with a tentative smile akin to the sun breaking through after a long winter storm.*\n\n\"Thank you Moshi-sama. Such terms are more than acceptable and I shall not forget your wisdom and aid.\" *The Shugenja spoke as she bowed low forehead nearly pressed to the floor with the weight of her gratitude and relief.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "tyler111762",
"message": "*Kishi watched her from the corner of his eye, watching Katsumi's features soften and the color return to her face brining him no small allowance of relief.* \"I find these terms to be more than amicable Moshi-Senpai. I look forward to the many great things to come from this agreement, including providing my services in ensuring this city remains in the good hands of our people.\" *He bows his head respectfully, rising again before continuing to speak* \n\n\"I thankyou for the candor with which you spoke to your own experiences in this difficult subject, and express my sincerest condolences for your loss. I imagine he smiles upon us all for being lucky enough to bask in the wisdom such terrible circumstances have bestowed upon you.\" *He says softly, though it seems the ambassador is not upset by bringing forth this information, he speaks with a gentleness all the same.*\n\n\"I do believe however, with the conclusion of these negotiations, all that remains is a discussion of the finer details of accommodations for the both of us. Lest i be forced to ascertain just how comfortable the top of our *Own* Embassy gatehouse is, or if it has room for two.\" *He remarks, a more typical smile returning to his features* \"And of course, some form of celebration this evening is certainly in order.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai looked pleased as punch to see the Mirumoto practically prostrate herself over her wisdom. Honestly, she was proud of herself, too; it wasn't often that good ideas come to her so easily, and for once her anxiety didn't wrack her psyche in the moment. But, it would seem Katsumi and Kishi were both much more relieved over what the ambassador had to say. \n\n\"Now, now,\" Mai chuckled, \"No need for all that. Though next time if you _start_ with all the praise, you might get what you want with less pushback.\" \n\nKishi's words were appreciated as well, though her smile wavered just a moment at the mention of her Tomoru. She appreciated the words, truly, and she wasn't angry, but every once in awhile, she missed that man dearly. He was a hard one to replace, hence still being unwed to this day. \n\n\"You're a darling for saying as much,\" She said, \"And I'm sure he would be pleased to find his wife has learned to be more civil, hm. \n\n\"But, back to business.\" Mai got right back to her sterner face, as a few last things needed to be covered. \"Naturally, depending on how speedy acceptance comes from the Dragon clan and Mirumoto-san's family, this wedding could begin as soon as the summer. In the meantime, the two of you are betrothed, and should act as such. I don't know how the Tsuruchi do things, but when I came up, I wasn't allowed to go have rendezvous in gatehouses with my soon-to-be husband. But, I'm also not a fool. \n\n\"There are some homes in the noble quarter that maybe available, at least temporarily. If you find one suitable enough for the both of you, I would recommend you do so. In the meantime, I need _my_ traveling magistrate here, and I doubt the Dragon want to hike to the Mantis Embassy to find theirs. So, when night comes, be where you should be, yes? Remember: you actions don't just reflect on your love. It reflects on two clans and their honor. I _will_ take action if necessary.\" \n\nShe let the stern, threatening words sit for a moment, before flippantly motioning for them to shoo. \"Go on then, you two lovebirds. Go and celebrate. I find myself with a lot of work to be done, so I will celebrate in spirit. We'll cover details later on, and then send letters to your respected families. But for now, begone, and be merry.\" \n\n||"
}
] | 348 | 5,643 |
368.111111 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Another day had passed since the conference, and Mai was surprisingly calm and not all that angry about it anymore. \n\nChiyoko was glad; she had been getting the brunt of it, most things getting the ire of the ambassador and leading to some rather heated arguments. While the ronin knew better than to argue back too hard, her ronin tongue was also well-versed in backtalk. \n\nBut, she too had been rather pleased as punch, and not wearing her usual scowl. Mai had inquired about it, but the ronin merely said she was in 'high spirits.' Peculiar, but of no worry. \n\nMai was more concerned with the arrival of Tsuruchi Senji. \n\nA letter had reached her from Tsuruchi Aizen, a rather impressive Samurai of the late Wasp Clan that spoke highly of the young Senji, noting he had a very 'particular fighting style' and was very capable in the field (and the sake den, oddly enough). From how she understood it, he was adopted into the Clan. Not a prestigious as birthright, but in away, even better: Not every peasant can earn the right to be a Samurai, after all. \n\n\"Moshi-sama.\" Mina, one of her crewmen, stepped into main chamber of the embassy and bowed deeply to the ambassador. \"Tsuruchi Senji has arrived.\"\n\n\"Good! Send him in, won't you?\" Mina nodded and headed off to fetch the man, while Mai sat on her throne of pillows. Chiyoko stood by, and tried not to look so cheery. She had to keep up appearances, after all. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "dragon_wielder",
"message": "Senji had been waiting outside the room, idly leaning on one of the pillars while idly eating on a rice ball. He'd bought a few of them in town on the way to the Ambassador's base of operations.\n\nIn terms of attire, he's wearing a simple green kimono with sandals. His Daisho is at his side. A simple but well constructed katana, with a tanto to match. His hair, being grown out as it is, has been tied up into a ponytail. His bluish green eyes wander about the room. He was still getting used to it. Being amongst such luxurious places. It was a far cry from the counter of his bar. Though one thing had seemed to carry over. He had a pretty face. It seemed to be just as good at breaking the ice with people of the higher class as it was with breaking ice in conversations with bar customers.\n\nWhile he was stewing in his thoughts, the woman from earlier, Mina, emerges from the room, signaling him to enter.\n\nSoon enough, he finds himself standing before the actual ambassador of his new clan. He gives a polite bow, unsure of what to do. \"I was... Never taught with etiquette hoops to jump through. So... Tell me if I need to kneel or somethin, Lady Mai. Or... Ambassador Mai...\" He doesn't seem nervous so much as confused. He pinches his brow. \"They need to write a book on this stuff.\"\n\nOnce finished bowing, he straightens out again and reaches into his bag. \"Oh, I brought this with me as a gift for allowing me into the clan. Aizen already got his. My parents spared no expense. It took four years to make.\" He holds up a bottle of slightly red liquid. \"Four years aged grape wine with strawberry notes. Homemade at the distillery.\"\n\nHis eyes dart about the room once more, curious about those surrounding him. Mai wasn't what he expected of an ambassador. She looked like more of a straightforward person. Like she actually went outside to do things other than stare off of a balcony and address people. He could respect that."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "When the Tsuruchi entered the hall, Mai wasn't sure what to expect. He was strong-looking, young, and carried himself well. But he seemed very green at the same time. All the same, he bowed as expected, and then fumbled about a touch. \n\nChiyōko didn't seem all that pleased, and went to address it, but Mai put a hand up, halting her bodyguard. \"I know of your upbringing, Tsuruchi-san,\" Mai replied, \"It's understandable. I'm not as stuck-up as some might be, so I take no offense. Lady Mai sounds pretty fancy, but much too Gaijin. No, I'd say Moshi-sama is appropriate. I'll see about finding you some more guidance, all the same. There's more than a few courtiers out here that'd eat you alive over such things.\" \n\nThe custom was to refuse a gift twice, then accept, but she simply accepted it on the first go, feeling it more appropriate for the well-meaning bushi. \"Ah, I haven't had a nice wine since I was back home! I thank you kindly, Tsuruchi Senji. Now, sit, sit. Let's talk a touch.\" \n\nShe motioned to a cushion to sit upon, across from herself. \"Ah, before I forget, this is Chiyōko. She's my yojimbo, and a bit of a problem solver, when the need arises.\" The ronin bowed to the samurai, and remained silent. \"She's the quiet, brooding type. A standard ronin, if you ask me. But, enough about her. I wish to discuss you.\" \n\nMai eyed him carefully, sizing him up now that he was close. \"Tsuruchi Aizen-sama spoke highly of you. Noted you are adept in a very... Unorthodox fighting style. And, that you were a barkeep before you became a samurai. Rather large change of pace, don't you think?\""
},
{
"author": "dragon_wielder",
"message": "As she tells Senji he needs a lesson in manners, the young Tsuruchi bows his head. \"Apologies. Thank you, Moshi-San. I am... Somewhat lost. The school, while it taught me a lot of the blade and fist, left a lot to be desired in terms of manners. I was thankful to attend just the same.\"\n\nOnce told to sit, he does so with legs crossed. \"I hope ya enjoy the wine. My father prides himself on the recipe. He's been tampering with it for a long time.\"\n\nWhen introduced to the Robin yojimbo, he gives a respectful bow of his head before once again returning his attention to Mai.\n\n\"Unorthodox is... Definitely the word for it. Have you per chance ever heard of the Drunken Mantis? It's... Not a style often used, but it was made by the Mantis clan. Legend goes that a Mantis martial arts master was... Somewhere. I can't remember all the details. But he saw a drunk monkey, and observed the way it stumbled around... Yet still deftly dodged anything that was in its way. He was inspired, and proceeded to make a fighting style based off of it. A fitting fighting style for a barkeep, I think.\" He chuckles slightly.\n\nWhen questioned about his transition from barkeep to samurai, he rubs his chin thoughtfully before using his hand to make a 'so-so' gesture. \"As the barkeep, it was my job to keep the peace within the bar. Made sure no one was harassing the ladies, causing fights or setting anything on fire. In a way, the job of a samurai isn't too different. The big adjustment is now I help watch over an *Entire* State instead of a bar. So, I'm doing what I did before. Just on a larger scale. Or at least... That's what I tell myself to alleviate all the pressure on my shoulders.\" Senji shrugs."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Drunken Mantis? Bah, I heard that was just an excuse monks made to sneak sake into their dojos.\" Indeed, Drunken Mantis wasn't well-known, most not thinking it a real style. If her late husband was still on this plane of existence, he would have told her all about it, knowing a few practitioners himself. \"I might just need to see a demonstration sometime,\" She added, \"See how it stands up against my own style.\" \n\nAs they discussed life as a bartender and a Samurai, Mai decided that she liked this young man. He seemed genuine enough, and while a little rough around the edges, he'd serve well and with courage, no doubt. \"If it makes you feel any better, Tsuruchi-san, I understand the feeling. Shugenja to Mother to Pirate to Ambassador is hardly an easy transition itself. But like the waves, we have to just roll into whatever shore we find ourselves.\" \n\nMai leaned back a little on her cushions, and got to brass tacks. \"For example, I may have use of you, and soon enough. I need someone that's not afraid of danger and death, if it comes down to it. Things are peaceful enough for now, but who knows for how long. We have a pleasure ship and bazaar shops to protect, as well as our shugenja and courtiers. Muscle is necessary. Think you can be that muscle?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "dragon_wielder",
"message": "\"That's the other rumor. That the style evolved into existence through drunk monks trying to figure out how to fight practically. More likely, but a less cool story.\" The young man states with a slight chuckle. \"I'm no master, but id love to show it to you sometime. Its main use is being unpredictable. Drunken fist is...\" He pauses, rubbing his chin in thought for a moment. \"It's at its best against people who aren't completely confident in themselves. Or against people who's fighting style involves getting settled into a specific rhythm.\" It made sense. Such an erratic combat style would make those who aren't confident in their capabilities struggle to put up a proper defense, and those who settle into a rhythm would falter in the face of someone without rhythm to their fighting.\n\nSenji gives a polite bow of his head. \"Not sure I'll ever fully abandon my barkeep upbringings. Too much useful info learned there.\"\n\nThe young mantis samurai goes silent as she begins describing the work that there is to be done. He gains a sudden glint in his eye as she mentions the pleasure ship. \"Moshi-San. I've a question. Will this pleasure ship have a bar on it? If it does, I may have a preposition on a way to put more than just my muscle to work. Alcohol loosens lips, but that's useless if you don't have someone who's proficient at overhearing those loose lips.\" He sits up slightly, his position less relaxed as he gets excited about his idea. \"Back home, I knew all the village gossip. Who's kid wasn't actually theirs. Who's husband cheated on who's. Which daughter was going after a boy who her father didn't approve of. *Which fool lost all of his daughter's dowry in a fit of gambling.*\" He seemed particularly disgusted with that last one. \"Every piece of that info I received was at my parent's bar, their lips loosened by alcohol. Your pleasure boat may be more than a pleasure boat, Moshi-San. If it has people from other clans visiting, adding a bar if it doesn't already have one could make it an informational *Gold mine*. All you need to have is a barkeep that knows how to listen.\" It seems young Senji was more complex than initially seeming. There was a bit of a schemer under all that village boy nervousness."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Well, if you're so certain that you can do great things with it, I think you should take part in an upcoming tournament.\" Moshi Mai crossed her arms, a little proud of herself. \"The Mantis Clan will be putting on a Hand-to-Hand tournament, on the Tomodachi Maru fro the spring festival. The prive is a custom riverboat, and the bragging rights, of course. I obviously can't enter, since I'm the one putting it on, but there's a few Mantis taking part. You should do the same. Might just win yourself a boat!\" \n\nAs the topic shifted to the major ship, Mai liked what she was hearing. \"You're not wrong, Tsuruchi-san,\" She said, rubbing her chin. \"We have a few bars on the ship, above and belowdeck. _And,_ I can say that every servant we have aboard is reporting what they find out to me. But, having a proper bartender that can throw his fists around and keep an ear open as well? That sounds like a lovely asset.\" \n\nMai stood a little straighter as she thought of the proposal. \"...Done. You'll be lead bartender on the ship. You'll be in charge of the heimin that deal with refreshments, and any rowdy folks that need to begone. Sound good?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "dragon_wielder",
"message": "\"I may look into the tournament.\" He rubs his chin thoughtfully. \"I'll have to brush up on counter attacks. I know how to do them... But drunken mantis requires you to bend your spine at some *Strange* Angles.\"\n\nSenji seems surprised. He was making the suggestion, but he didn't think she'd give *Him* The position. They had just met after all. He instantly bows his head. \"It sounds excellent, Moshi-San. I'll do my best to live up to your expectations.\" His mind instantly begins racing, his mind piecing together how to make this operation that's been dumped on his lap more efficient. It's then that one thing comes to mind. Something he believed to be an important piece of the puzzle.\n\n\"Moshi-San. Do I have permission to hire people I find qualifiable to work as servers on the ship?\" He tilts his head in curiosity. \"I've no doubt that the servers you've hired are competent. Not to mention I'm sure they're beautiful since it's a pleasure boat and that partly donates to information extracting but...\" He pauses, thinking over how to place his words. \"There's something more important to it than a pretty face. Me? I mostly overheard information. My mother? They practically *Fed* Their woes to her on days where she was serving the floor. I think there's something to it.\" He drums his fingers on the table in front of him. \n\n\"People find comfort... A certain relief, in people that have a... Motherly or fatherly countenance to them. Beauty or no beauty, it matters not. The pretty faces on the staff might pick up a tidbit here or there. But I think hiring people with that sort of temperament. Those are the ones that will dig up gold.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"You'd better,\" Mai teased, \"Or I'll send you back to your little village for guard duty and nothing more. Look, just do what you do best, and we'll have no issues, I don't think.\"\n\nShe did her best to ignore the small infraction against her, taking into consideration that he was not of noble birth, and focused more on the question at hand. \"Ah, I see what you mean,\" She said, rubbing her chin. \"I recall telling many of my senior sisters my woes during my training days. But, you already have that permission to hire as you see fit. Just be careful to vouch them carefully, yes? We have friends in this city, but more enemies, no doubt.\"\n\nMai leaned back a little, and figured she'd correct him, just a bit, \"Just, do me a favor, won't you? Pick up a copy of one of the Doji etiquette scrolls. I might be nice enough to correct you on calling me Moshi-sama instead of _-san,_ but some of these Clans in this city will take it so seriously, they'll make it into a thing. And then use that thing against you and the Clan. Understood?\"\n\n||"
}
] | 375 | 3,313 |
306.5 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "geekadee",
"message": "After Yeong's visit to the Temple Quarter, she made the extra effort to change to a more fitting outfit for her first visit to the Mantis ambassador. Rather casual by other clan standards but acceptable from a bushi of her position. A gray hakama set tightened around the shins to accommodate her shin guards and over it was a sleeveless, dark teal haori loosely hanging on her frame. On its back was a Mantis clan mon embroidered in gold. \n\nIt was a rather plain outfit but Yeong was not one for extra trinkets in terms of clothing. Jewelry though was another matter. On her right ear alone were 4 earrings made of an assortment of seashells, broken coral, sea glass, and a peacock green pearl on her left ear coupled with a startling orange coral stud on the earlobe. On her left wrist was a bracelet two inches wide and made of strips of jade-colored mother of pearl. Those were her only luxuries but it boasted of quite the wealth.\n\nYeong arrived in the Embassy in no time and did a compulsory check of herself before doing her greetings. Clothes were intact, daisho worn in courtesy; her weapons of choice, the kusarigama and kama, were left temporarily in a room at an inn she rented, and the temiyage kept in a minimally ornate box in her grasp.\n\nSoon, an attendant greeted her at the entrance. Yeong gave him a small nod and stated, \"Yoritomo Yeong of the Hoji family has come to report to the Mantis Ambassador.\"\n\nFormalities were quickly done and she was then ushered inside the building. Being a fellow Mantis, Yeong had heard about Moshi Mai but had yet to meet the woman. Whatever reputation she had was irrelevant. Frankly, all Yeong cared about was that this woman was captain of a ship and had a crew of her own. I wonder if there was a chance to talk about it in the future? \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai was really falling behind on her meetings. She had two different Samurai of the Mantis Clan that had arrived -no, _three:_ she really __was__ falling behind!- that needed to be properly met with, and Mai was finding herself pulled in many directions. But, she promised that she would make time to meet with everyone, and not end up meeting another respected Samurai out on the street at random again. \n\nSo, when Yoritomo Yeong was announced to be there, Mai stopped what she was doing, and made sure she was ready to take her in. Mai was dressed in her more garish fashion, more skin showing than any Crane would be happy with, sitting on her little throne of pillows, but she stood to bow in turn to the Yoritomo when she was introduced. \n\n\"Welcome to Ryoko Owari Toshi, Yoritomo Yeong-san,\" Mai said cheerfully, \"And from one captain to another, welcome aground. It's great to see that our Clan is sending me so many skilled Samurai.\" She ushered for Yeong to sit, as tea was brought out for the both of them. \"So, tell me more of yourself, Yortimo-san,\" Mai said. \"I've heard good things, but I'd rather hear it from the Mantis' mouth.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "geekadee",
"message": "Yeong gave an inward sigh of relief. Garish the Ambassador may be but it reminded her of home. After giving the woman a polite bow befitting her position, Yeong sat on the cushion directly in front of Mai. \n\n\"You give me too much credit, Moshi-sama. At present, due to my being unwed and having no children, I have been passed for promotion to Captain. The nearly uninterrupted series of missions throughout the years have also been a deterrent.\n\n\"Though it does me credit for others to keep on mistaking my position. At the very least, my skills have proven to fit my reputation.\"\n\nBefore proceeding further, Yeong took the box she brought and handed it with both hands to the Ambassador. \n\n\"Please accept this gift from my family. It was made with care. I hope you don't think I'm too presumptuous to have made these with you in mind.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Oh, so not yet a captain?\" Mai was a touch surprised. \"The way you were spoken about, I thought you'd already gotten that far. But, a woman unwed and without child can put a damper on such things.\" It was no secret that being a woman had special responsibilities, the only caveat that, unlike the men in the same boat, a woman could be held up for quite some time. But, being a captain and a mother was possible, Mai being spitting proof of that. \n\n\"Well, the accolades still stand, Yoritmo-san,\" Mai replied, \"And who knows? We might just find you someone brave enough to sail the seas yet! But, that can wait. There's much to discuss, after all.\" \n\nBut first, a gift. Mai refused, twice, as was the style of things, but she was naturally eager to accept. Gifts from home were always a treat for her, and she had a good feeling about this one. \n\nAnd indeed, it was a winner. \"Fortunes bless you, good woman! These are beautifully loud!\" Mai had a thing for such fashion; why be subtle when you can make your intentions and style loud and proud, after all? She would not be as brash as to don them now, but they'd get worn, next time she was out. \"You honor me, Yeong-san. I thank you, deeply.\" \n\nAs tea was served, Mai settled into her seat, and got down to business. \"As I'm sure you're aware, there's much going about in the city. Mantis are working on controlling the dock, be it shipping, protection, or otherwise. So far, we're working on making business ventures, controlling the water lanes, all of that. Only issue so far has been the fireman gangs and the Otter Clan, which I can't say I knew of until recently.\" Mai sipped her tea, and sighed. \"What's more, there's an order from the Emerald Magistrate. They wish to have a liason from each of the Clans to deal with the crime issue. I already have Magistrate Moshi Kana working around the clock, as is Yoritomo Takeya. So, I am curious if you may be able to take on this task?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "geekadee",
"message": "Ah. Straight to business. \n\nYeong had wondered what she'd be up against here in Ryoko Owari and, honestly, dreaded any form of idleness. This place was too far from the sea she loved so much. Any work would be welcome. It hadn't even been a full day since she arrived here and the smell of the city was just...*Wrong*. Not fowl by any means but something in the air made her feel boxed in despite walking around the busy roads earlier today. \n\nA liaison answering to the Emerald Magistrate. Something Yeong had never done before. It was a job that could prove beneficial though. Especially since this would allow her a quick introduction to all important figures in Ryoko Owari. The timing couldn't be any more perfect.\n\nWith a respectful low bow directed at the Ambassador, Yeong accepted the task. \n\n\"I will be honored to take on the responsibility. As to how successful I would be as a liaison, only time can tell but I will do my best regardless. Also, in the case of the waterways, I'll keep a lookout and see if there are any underlying issues we should be concerned about.\"\n\nYeong paused to think about the circumstances. It would do well for her to look into it. Not that she didn't understand the want for monopoly on the waterways but maybe there was room for negotiation.\n\n\"If you permit me, Moshi-sama, I'd like to study this situation further. Is there anyone from our clan already planning on how to deal with the Otters?\"\n\n*Hopefully, not in an aggressive way*, Yeong thought silently. Sometimes, unfortunately, brawn was not the answer. What a pity. Not that she was good at talking to people. It was still worth a try though.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai was pleased to see Yeong eager to take on the challenge. That was her favorite thing about the Yoritomo family: if you pitched an offer, plan, or deed, fear and apprehension was not going to be part of the equation. \n\n\"Good, I'm glad to see you're up for the challenge, Yoritomo-san.\" Mai gave a bow of appreciation in turn, happy to have one thing crossed off the docket. \"You'll do fine, I imagine. Besides,the more we show the Imperials that we're taking care of things on the riverbanks, the more likely they'll leave us to our own devices.\n\n\"As for the waterways, I am most appreciative of that, as well.\" She sipped on her tea, thinking about the upcoming mission she'd be taking part in. \"Word is, river bandits have been making a mincemeat of the traders in the city. It'd be good to keep that riff-raff out of the city, see what we can find out before we send a force out to deal with them properly. Mhm, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't thrilled to get back on my ship for some actual action!\" A little chuckle of anticipation left the woman, followed by a sigh. \n\n\"Oh, right, the Otter Clan.\" The woman rolled her eyes at the mention of them. \"I hadn't heard of the Minor Clan until a few weeks ago. I still know next to nothing about them, but I have some of our fellow Mantis working on that. Once I see how many businesses are hiring out to the Otter Clan, we can see how best to deal with them. Either diplomatic, or _otherwise,_ if needed.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "geekadee",
"message": "Yeong understood that there was a real possibilty for the Otter issue to become a bigger deal than it was. It would be wiser to steer clear of that one for now. Hunting river bandits though sounded like a legitimately riveting activity. She was itching to get her kusarigama back in action.\n\n\"I was told to do what I could for the Mantis Clan while stationed here. I'll wait for news in regards to the Otter Clan. As for the waterways, I'll keep my ears open for any news. I've meet a few people from the Fisher's Quarter. They're one of the most knowledgeable in regards to what's happening in the river routes. Maybe they might know something about the bandits.\"\n\nThere were a few things Yeong had wanted to ask the Ambassador but she was strapped for time. What a shame.\n\nAs if to prove her point, an attendant knocked to announce the summons to the Crab Embassy and the need for the liaison's attendance. \n\nYeong bowed to Moshi Mai, \"Do forgive me, Moshi-sama. It seems duty calls.\"\n\nPleasantries were exchanged and a few final words were said regarding her responsibilities. Without delay, Yeong left and proceeded to her next assignment. She had worried that she might have idle time here in Ryoko Owari. What an idiotic thought. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"That quickly, eh? Seems Hida Koyama-sama wastes little time.\" Mai stood as well, to give Yeong a proper sendoff. \"Well, we'll need to reconvene another time. If you haven't found lodging yet, I hope you know the embassy has room to spare for you.\" She bowed, and dismissed Yoritomo Yeong. \"Off you go, then! Do your best, and serve with courage, yeah?\" \n\n||"
}
] | 321.5 | 2,452 |
158 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "extremelzs",
"message": "\"Ok... So this should be the place\" Said Kakatsu as he approached his destination. He took a sigh of deep breath and then blanked out for a moment.\n\n\nJust as he was drowning in self doubt, he decided to pick himself up and walked up to the entrance of the embassy, and after a short conversation with the guard he was able to enter the embassy. As he entered the place he looked up and down, high and low for the ambassador."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "After a moment of searching, Moshi Kakatsu would be approached by one of the servants, seeing the man looking about. \"Ah, you must be Moshi Kakatsu-sama,\" Said the older fellow, \"Please, if you'll follow me, I will take you to Moshi Mai-sama.\" He would give a proper bow before escorting him into the main hall. \n\nThere, Moshi Mai was looking over reports, sitting on her throne of cushions. When she spotted the servant and Kakatsu, she smirked, and set her reports down. \"Ah, who might this be?\"\n\n\"May I present Moshi Kakatsu-sama, Ambassador-sama.\" The servant would bow and then retreat, so that Kakatsu may introduce himself properly. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "extremelzs",
"message": "\"H-hello Ambassador-sama, I-I am Moshi Kakatsu, son of two famous shipmakers that are from the island of Tokigogachu.\"\nAs he says that he does a kowtow towards her out of fear and respect. \n\nAs he had heard from sources that she IS the most powerful person within the city. Naturally, he would shudder due to the fear obviously. However underneath the kowtow bowing, a small grin would appear on his face that at least to him, doesn't look visible to the ambassador."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai looked at the young man with a quizzical expression as he made his shaky introduction. She respected the introduction and the honor that he was bestowing, but she felt something was off about it. Nothing that seemed to come to mind, so for the time being, there was no reason to harp on it. \"Well met,\" Mai said, \"And welcome. Please, sit.\" She motioned to one of the cushions, and called for tea to be brought. \n\n\"Famous shipmakers, you say?\" Mai sipped her tea when it was poured, and set her cup down. \"I think I recall hearing of some Moshi that took the ship-building. Well, if that's the case, well met, indeed.\" \n\nMai gave the man a once-over. A young fellow, but the young were bold and eager to prove themselves. Never a bad thing. \"I take it you know your way around a ship, then. You see, I intend to have plenty of ships in the city. There's plenty of trade here, and trade needs ships, and ships need watching.\" Mai smiled, and crossed her arms. \"I could use some young samurai that might want to run a defense team of sorts, watching teh docks and wharves our Clan has care over.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "extremelzs",
"message": "Now feeling a bit more laxed and mentally stable, he replied to the Ambassador in a more calm tone. \n\n\"So Ambassador-sama... Urm when can I begin and most important of all... Who am I working with to secure the clan's docks and wharves?\"\n\nIf you looked into his eyes however, it had lit up. It was full of passion and hopes. The same thing was going on in his mind, but a bit more intense than what shown off from his face."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai smirked at the fire in Kakatsu's eyes, and uncrossed her arms. \"Well, _that's_ what I was looking for.\" She chuckled, and leaned forward a touch. \"You, Moshi-san, need to show more enthusiasm. I don't like timid men, even if I like my subordinates intimidated by me. So, sit up straight, yeah?\" \n\nThat said, she explained herself a bit more. \"So, I intend to petition a sort of dock security of sorts. Working on keeping the docks clear of brigands, ne'er do wells, all that sort of thing. For now, it will be you and another Samurai, one that hasn't quite made it to the city. And eventually, my son Yoritomo Tomichi will be part of the retinue. \n\n\"You'll only need to watch over our ships at port,\" She explained further, \"But, I intend to make some letters out to a few of the other clans to see if they'd wish to join our endeavor. Clan relations, and all.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "extremelzs",
"message": "Kakatsu would lean back a bit so as to not touch the mighty ambassador and disrepect her. He would now reply back to the ambassador with some courage.\n\"So ambassador-sama, I am to assume you are making some Port Defense Garrison, correct? And if you're plan succeeds, which it most likely will, there will be more members from other clans doing the same thing but across a nationwide scale, right?\"\n\nDue to hearing what she also said before, he would make his face more enthusiastic than before while also maintaining his sense of spirit in his eyes."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai chuckled at the question Kakatsu gave, covering her mouth to be polite. \"Hm, I hardly doubt it'd go that far! What use do the Lion or Dragon for Port Defense? No, I intend to look to the Crane and the Crab, and see how susceptible they'd be to a little cooperation.\" Mai sipped her tea, and looked over at a grand mural of the Isle of Silk and Spice. \"No, our goal is this city, it's river, and extending our influence. We're ot out for war or anything large like a whole realm-wide service. The other Clans are too proud for that. \n\n\"See, young Kakatsu-san, the Mantis' needs in the city are simple. The Unicorn are surely going to take the city, as far as I'm concerned. The Crane will assuredly leach onto the Unicorn and use their power to weasel into power as well. And we will either be in cahoots with the both of them, or at the worst, we'll be so integrated into the river trade that removing us will be so much of a calamity that they don't even try. The best way to keep oneself in a position is to make sure that losing you isn't worth the trouble.\""
},
{
"author": "extremelzs",
"message": "Being overwhelmed with such information, Kakatsu while keeping a straight face would contemplate on whether he should ask for a simplification of the things the Ambassador said, as he wasn't very well versed in the geopolitics of the land.\nAlas he went ahead with it, while obviously wording his question with care。\n\n\"Uhh... I am sorry to intrude Ambassador-sama, but as someone not very well-versed in geopolitics could you perhaps... Simplify it so I can better grasp the situation so I know the importance of my task?\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai scoffed, resting her hands on her hips. \"What, do they not teach you anything more than to swing a sword and raising the sails nowadays? You know you're not so handsome that you can afford to be foolish, you know.\" She chuckled, obviously just having a little laugh at the bushi's expense, but it was not to purely insult. \"But yes, I'll explain.\n\n\"The Mantis Clan lost a large amount of land, to gain our status as a Great Clan. No doubt, the Crane knew this when they petitioned us entry, which had us give up most of our coastal land . While we're no destitute, we can't expand on the isles. We need more land to stretch out. Hence, we've got ourselves an opportunity here in the city.\n\n\"We make moves to control the river. We work the docks, we work the shipping, the cargo, the handling of lading and more, and eventually we'll need to expand. Build more docks on the river. And housing for the workers, and with so many workers, Samurai will need to be stationed. And Samurai need proper lands to govern.\" Mai leaned in a little, smirking. \"Now, do you see what I mean, Moshi-san?\""
},
{
"author": "extremelzs",
"message": "Rather than feeling insulted, Kakatsu would feel more genuinely more enlightened as not only now did he know the importance of his task but also the geopolitical stuff in the realm of Rokugan... At least by a little bit.\n\n\"Ahh... So basically I am to ensure the dock's safety while more are made while we at the same time expand and take land... Yes, Ambassador-sama, I do see what you mean now. I also sincerely thank you for enlightening me on such matters and expanding my vision in the realm of politics.\"\n\nHe then proceeded to kowtow before sitting up again."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai handwaved the large level of praise she was getting, though she _did_ appreciate it from a vain perspective. \"Well, I _am_ rather wise, aren't I?\" She chuckled, but didn't laugh for long. \"But, yes, that is the jist of it. I pray you're up for the task. There's always been something going about, so it's best to keep your eyes alert and your head on a swivel.\n\n\"But, with that said, you are dismissed.\" Mai stood up, signaling that Kakatsu was free to go. \"Just keep in mind: Do not pester anyone from the Otter Clan at this time. They're a minor clan, and thus protected by the Emperor's word. Other than that, I pray you have a nice time in the city. If you need anything, call upon me, or Magistrate Moshi Kana.\""
},
{
"author": "extremelzs",
"message": "\"Understood, Ambassador-sama. I will be going off now\"\nAnd with that he stands up and just for a good measure, bows down to her (not kowtow) and then faces the other side and leaves."
}
] | 123 | 2,054 |
403.3125 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oi! Kitsune-san!\"\n\nTsuta blinked a couple of times, caught off guard by the decidedly cheerful greeting she had gotten from her magistrate. For someone who had gotten whispers of being a violent Oni who killed mercilessly with her bare hands, she certainly didn't act the part. She did glance over to her, though, and bowed accordingly.\n\n\"Morning, Moshi-sama.\"\n\n\"Good morning!\" Kana chirped. \"I got some fish dumplings and rice at the wharves; I thought a bit of breakfast at the meeting would be a good idea! Oh, and some vegetable dumplings, too! Though I have to admit, I don't know why you don't eat fish...\"\n\n\"Uh... Personal preference,\" Tsuta replied. She was wondering just how Kana knew that about her (if she had to guess, maybe one of the Ashigaru whispering about it), but given that it was a genuinely kind gesture, and she was already dreading this meeting to begin with, she decided to leave things where they were at.\n\nAnd with that, she decided it didn't hurt to try to cushion the blow.\n\n\"Moshi Kana-sama, before we begin, I do intend on apologizing to Moshi Mai-sama, but I want to apologize to you as well.\" She set the keg she was carrying down beside her, and got down on her knees, prostrating herself before her. \"My mission's outcome was not what it should have been, and I know that better is expected of me. I will make sure it does not happen again.\"\n\nTsuta would be unable to see, but Kana would appear visibly confused. She had an idea of the operation, yes, but was unsure about it going *That* Badly.\n\n\"Oh well... I'm certain it will be okay! Once you explain to Moshi-sama...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Excuse me, Moshi-sama, Kitsune-sama.\"\n\nIt was Chiyoko, and she looked... Pale. She usually had a light tan to her, training outdoors and having her ronin life, but she looked rather tired and sickly, at least in the early hours. It had been like that since the end of spring, come to think of it, but she was always careful to say she was not contagious. \n\n\"Moshi Mai-sama will see you both. She's in her chambers.\" \n\nNow, Mai was not always the easiest to read, but the samurai knew she had a few habits. If the meeting was outside in the garden, it was usually fine, cordial, and laidback, unless it was at night, as Kana would know. If it was in the conference rooms, it was business, and should be fine as well, same as the main hall. \n\nBut if Mai demanded to see someone in her chambers, she was not too pleased. \n\n\"Ah, you brought breakfast, Moshi-sama. That might help.\" Chiyoko led the two further into the embassy, if only to give them fair warning. \"My master isn't in the best of moods, as you may have gathered. Please, accept her anger as passion, and try not to make her angrier. If not her sake, than yours.\" \n\nWhen the chamber door open, Mai was already sitting at the table, arms crossed. She had been in a foul mood since her talk with Bayushi Yuto, and that whole situation, so she wasn't in the mood for more bad news. \"Moshi-san. Kitsune-san. Sit.\" \n\n\"I'll apologize,\" She sighed, \"But things have not been going smoothly for me. I'm hoping Kitsune-san here has brought me some good news before I start doling out new orders for the both of you.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Chiyoko-san! How good to see you! Is all well?\" Her voice was bright and friendly as always, but also tinged with concern. She kept an eye on her as they made her way further into the embassy; while she wasn't going to push the issue unnecessarily, especially when there was other business afoot, she didn't think it right to completely ignore it either.\n\nMeanwhile, all Tsuta could manage was a silent bow, a grimace escaping her usually solid composure. *Technically* She had done what was asked of her, and certainly could tout that. Not to mention she brought a gift of alcohol, which she was certain would get somewhere with Mai. Still, the issue had its share of complications, and if the ambassador was already in a foul mood, it didn't bode well for her. Her breathing was just a little bit heavier as she rose again to her full height, following Chiyoko and Kana, hoping she wouldn't be yelled at too hard.\n\nWhen the pair finally arrived, Kana greeted Mai with a deep bow. She could *Certainly* Pick up on Mai's irritation, and offered her the basket of dumplings with both hands. \"I thought to provide some food for our meeting today, should it please you, Moshi-sama.\" She thought better of saying anything more for now, though, setting it down and then taking a seat across from her, keeping her head bowed respectfully.\n\nTsuta on the other hand, was tempted to start prostrating herself right now. She had a pretty good feeling that her usual strategy of complimenting Mai's appearance wasn't the right approach right this moment. Still, she also knew going too far too soon could come off as cowardice, which would make the whole thing even worse. She set the keg down beside her for now, and took a seat.\n\n\"Of course, Moshi-sama. As per your instructions, I followed the lead of Yoritomo-san in attempting to discover more of the Otter and who the payments in the Wharves were being made to, if not us. Yoritomo-san took the role of a noblewoman, and I her Yojimbo, looking into business ventures. We came across a ship carrying liquor, and arrangements were made to meet with the ship's Lady, Usogawa Chihiro. She had indicated a disdain for our clan... But also implied that it was with \"Honey\" That she has been able to coax some of the merchants into trusting their coin with them instead of us.\" She spoke clearly and confidently, hoping to focus on the good of the situation, and perhaps soften the upcoming blow.\n\n\"However... I do believe that our cover was lacking, and while I did not directly reveal my name or clan, I believe she suspects us to be of the Mantis.\" She lowered her head solemnly. \"I am fully and truly ashamed of my failure in this respect.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai took the news with a grain of salt, and was not moved into a better move. \"So, in your simple task of speaking to a few vendors, possibly the different merchant's guilds, you just-so-happened to find Usogawa Chihiro's ship.\" She slid her pipe out of her sleeve, and started to pack in some tobacco as she listened further. \"Oh, I'd say your cover was definitely lacking, if you ended up talking to the source directly. \n\n\"The _point_ of that mission was to gather information without the Otter knowing we were _looking for it.\"_ Mai lit her pipe, and took a long drag off of it. \"I don't expect you to understand the tricky game of commerce, what with being some hodunk forest dweller, Kitsune-san, but the first rule of a negotiation with someone that does not like you is to 'Never look _desperate.'_ And yet, you and Yoritomo Saya -who I see has not bothered to show her face after this blunder- waltz right up to our fiscal enemy, and said, what? 'Excuse me, Otter-chan, can you tell me how to run a shipping business?' No, knowing you, you were too busy fawning over her, you girl-crazy idiot!\" \n\nMai was not pleased, and it showed on her face and in her biting comments ||Intimidate: Bullying 4 ||. \"...That said, at the very least, I have a name now. If I have a name, I can reach out. And if I can reach out, I can strike a deal. Thusly, you won't be punished _harshly_ for your ineptitude.\" She finally stopped glaring at Tsuta, and looked to the keg next to her. \"And what's that? A \"Gift\" From the Otter? Did she fall in love with your endearing buffoonery?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Something in Tsuta seemed to shift. A mixture of shame owing to Mai's biting words and frustration welled up within her. Just as Mai had pointed out, here she was accepting blame and degradation when it had been another who had steered the direction of everything in that damned mission.\n\n\"Forgive me, and please accept my apologies and reverence,\" She began, prostrating herself both as a show of remorse, and a way of concealing her increasingly upset expression, \"In way of explanation, I was following the direction of Yoritomo-sama, who was given command of the mission. To have done anything else but follow her lead, given our cover, would have ensured I had nothing to present to you and led to a complete failure. I would not dare to question the decision to place her in command, as to do so would be to question your wisdom,\" She spoke. \"The keg was a gift intended for you, and I have delivered it.\"\n\nKana, who had been watching somewhat nervously, finally decided to intervene, lest Tsuta's comment entirely light the powderkeg.\n\n\"You are right to recognize Moshi-sama's wisdom; it is through this alone that we Mantis find ourselves in the position we do here. Even now apart from the Scorpion, we are in a better position than we were before, owing to her guidance and leadership, and it is good you display that understanding. You and Yoritomo-san's work, flawed as it may be, has given us a path to take the final steps to secure it fully. However,\" Her voice hardened. \"That this mistake is not more costly for yourself or for us is the providence of the heavens. You are not tracking dogs in the woods, you are dealing with people, and all the dangers that entails.\"\n\nKana turned to Mai, bowing her head deeply. \"If I may offer counsel, perhaps we might send for one with greater wisdom in such matters, to educate Kitsune-san and Yoritomo-san better to avoid such failures. Perhaps with a suspension of their stipend until such time as they complete their education.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Don't blame your failure on the absent,\" Mai scolded. \"You are a _Mantis._ Courage wins, not excuses. Rest assured, she's in trouble, same as you. But if you think I sent for followers that would tuck behind another, you'd best switch your green for red and get out of my sight.\" \n\nShe was going to tear into her some more, but Kana spoke up as a means of relieving the poor Kitsune from the tirade. The seasoned woman could practically taste the sickly-sweet compliments made to ease her temper. She wasn't stupid, and she could see for what it was... But, she could appreciate that there was an attempt made to clam her down. And there was wisdom in the words. \n\n\"You're correct,\" She sighed, \"There's certainly a lack of subterfuge in our stylings. We're not that kind of a Clan, but we need to be. We definitely _need_ to be...\" Taking a moment to smoke, she came to a decision. \"I know a man that could aid us. He's a rather... Unorthodox man, by our clan's standards. But, he may answer the call, if I make it. \n\n\"Kitsune Tsuta. You will learn the ways of this city. For the fact that I sent a hunter on a spy's job, I will not punish you harshly. But hear me now, girl: If you fail me again in such a way, after you've been trained and sorted, you'll be lucky if I marry you off to an inbred Crane _man,_ let alone anything short of miserable. Understood?\" \n\nOnce Tusta answered, she'd turn her attention to Kana. \"Now, for the business for the both of you to be aware of.\" Mai sighed, and rubbed her temples. \"Bayushi Yuto is requesting to take Edward Williams out of our custody to go hunt down the Kolat.\" She was none too pleased with the sentiment. \"Williams-san has convinced the man that he can lead them to two against the Kolat, which I feel is utter shit. However, if we refuse, we look like a gaijin ambassador aiding the Kolat. So, I have elected this to happen. But, I refused to allow him to leave without any cover. \n\n\"Moshi Kana-san. I've trusted you with dangerous things before, and I'm entrusting you with this task. You will be the warden for Edward Williams, as well as two ashigaru. I'm entrusting that you will keep him in sight and in our control. If for any reason there appears to be any treachery from the Scorpion or Edward, you are to __kill__ Edward Williams immediately. And, if Bayushi-san raises his blade against you, kill him, as well.\" She spoke cooly, with no hint of hesitation. \"I would normally send Chiyoko-san, but she...\" \n\nMai grumbled, and looked at the two women. \"You two _are_ aware that our ronin is with child, are you not?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Unorthodox may not be a bad thing, Moshi-sama,\" Kana responded. \"One might say our strength is in our unorthodox nature compared to other clans.\"\n\nTsuta's frustration at the magistrate joining in on the conversation was short lived, as she found herself suppressing the urge to vomit. She thought about the idea of being matched with someone like that insufferable Crane boy that had gotten them into such trouble in the bazaar, and immediately after she considered that seppuku might not be such a bad option. On some level she knew that she was getting off easy, all things considered, but she was still thoroughly miserable and ashamed.\n\n\"Understood,\" She managed to speak, fighting to keep emotion from entering her voice, and keeping her head on the ground before the pair of them. \"I regret my failures, and promise to you it shall not happen again. Whatever education you have in store for me, I will follow to the letter.\"\n\nShe would eventually rise from prostrating herself, but still kept her head low as Mai continues to speak, talking to them about what was happening with the gaijin. While she listened with an even expression, it appeared Kana would be going on somewhat of an emotional journey. New children were an occasion for joy but Kana wasn't stupid. There were... Questions to be had around what happened with Chiyoko. Chiefly among them, who the child's father was and what that could mean for both her and the clan.\n\n\"I... I am aware now, Moshi-sama,\" Kana replied. \"I will do all I can to ensure her child is welcomed and that Chiyoko-san is looked after! I will-\" She then cut herself off, as something seemed to hit her.\n\n\"Y-you think it may be necessary to kill Bayushi-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai had thought they were moving forward. Tsuta apologized, and Mai accepted it. No need for more prostrating and groveling, as long as it didn't happen again. And she made her orders clear about Yuto and the rest, simple and plain. \n\nAnd yet, when she trying to move onto her ronin problem, Kana circled back to Bayushi Yuto. Mai looked confused by the reaction. \"...Yes, yes I do.\" Mai took a drag from her pipe, and closed her eyes. \"Moshi-san, I know he is a nice man. He's a good-natured fellow, and honorable, yes. But he's a __scorpion.__ And they do not want us or our allies to succeed. Lest you forget the slights they've had against me and my family, they are no friends of ours. No matter how nice they act, or what pretty paintings they might show you or friendships they want to make, they are the _enemy._ And you will __kill__ an enemy if it comes down to it. I love Bayushi Yuto, like a son. I would certainly mourn his death... But if he got in my way or turned against my Clan, I would immolate him. Without hesitation. I expect the same from all of you.\" \n\nIt was harsh, but it was necessary to say. \"That said,\" She sighed, \"If it bothers you, pray to Amaterasu that She give the boy enlightenment, so that he does not act foolishly.\" \n\nMai said what she needed, but compassion won out over her coldness. \"But, you're troubled over this, yes? Tell me truthfully, can you do as I ordered, if the moment comes?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Truthfully?\" Kana began. \"Truthfully, I have come to regard Bayushi-san as a friend to both myself and those whom I care about.\" She spared a thought for Temujin, who she knew was close to Yuto himself. \"I regard him as a credit and exemplar for his clan, even though I know our clans are no longer aligned, and our interests are at odds. Perhaps maybe I have not realized the extent to which they are now, if such open betrayal would be a possibility for them. I will absolutely be keeping him within my prayers tonight.\"\n\n\"If anything were to happen... I'd take absolutely no pleasure in it, and would mourn his passing as well. \"Kana took in a deep breath though, her expression and tone of voice changing slightly; it was still her voice and her face, but the draining of all warmth in her manner rendered her almost uncanny. \"Rest assured, though, that my surprise at learning he might grow so brazen is not hesitation. Should he betray the clan or myself, I will tear him to pieces with my bare hands.\"\n\nTsuta's feelings of shame were soon replaced with a feeling of unease. She held no love for Scorpions and wasn't going to mourn the loss of any of their number. It was difficult to not be perturbed, however, by the two holy women so coldly speaking about the extreme violence they were both willing to enact on those who crossed them. She knew better than to breathe so much as a syllable of it, however. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai stared at Kana as she gave her answer, and a sad expression crossed her face. Obviously she didn't want to do that, not one bit. But these were not times to play games or care about what their future husbands would think of them. The Scorpion could not be trusted, simple as that. And yet, the look on both of their faces was annoying and depressing. \n\n\"Oh, I see. Wouldn't want your _darling_ to be upset that his fwend died, hm? The fact he's friends with that man is dangerous, seeing as how that man of yours is far more nice than many.\" She emptied out her pipe, no longer finding anything enjoyable about it _or_ the conversation. \n\n\"I have changed my mind.\" She looked at Kana, deadly serious. _\"Disable_ Bayushi Yuto, if the need is necessary. You will still kill Edward Williams, and I swear I will strangle you myself if you argue for that traitor's life!...But Yuto-san... If it can be avoided, he can live. _If_ it can be avoided.\" \n\nShe shot a look at Tsuta. \"There, is that alright, then? Don't think I didn't notice your concern. Perhaps I am just used to such violence in my old age, seeing as how I was in conflicts since you were in diapers. But, I will say, to the both of you, I can respect and find honor in your compassion for our foes. You are both young and without the age required to be jaded, and I can find truth and honor in that.\" High praise, after all that admonishing. \n\n\"I just pray that Kitsune-san here will not be so compassionate if someone tries to take my life.\" \n\nMai smirked, looking back at the fox. \"Kitsune-san, as I have noted, Chiyoko-san is pregnant. I've tried to get her to tell me who it was that did the deed, but she refuses, even _me,_ to tell. That tells me that it must be someone of higher rank than even I. Quite the interesting mystery, don't you think?\n\n\"Well, it leads to a problem. While I've decided she can stay here (lest my daughter never speak to me again), I am without a yojimbo. I have word of a man from back home, coming to fill the role. But for now, I need a replacement. Moshi Kana is already doing so much, and I need her to be unbound from my side so she can dole out justice on our behalf. But you, Kitsune-san, you are not without merit, and based on Chiyoko-sans' recommendation, you came up as a proper candidate. And, since I haven't finished bullying you, I figured I could put you to work in regaining your glory.\" She stood up, and walked over to Tsuta. \n\n\"So, what say you? Will you be my sword against my enemies, Kitsune Tsuta?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana wasn't able to suppress the eyebrow that she raised in curiosity. Was Mai actually walking back her orders?\n\nShe tried to consider reasons for the shift in position. Was it about preserving some level of decorum between the clans? If Kana should kill Yuto, there would be very little question as to who was responsible, and that might lead to an outright clan war in the city. Perhaps it was more that Yuto would be more useful to her alive. There would be a reason to such overt betrayal, and Mai (and Kana, for that matter) would be very eager to find out what was going on (not to mention exacting some measure of retribution). \n\nThere was yet another thought, though; Mai seemed very sincere in how she spoke of Yuto. It appeared to Kana there was genuine affection there. It struck Kana that perhaps she wasn't the one Mai was worried about hesitating...\n\nShe calculated her response to keep her thoughts concealed so that both might save face, her expression returning to one more neutral. \"I will do exactly as you ask, Moshi-sama. I will render him disabled if necessary, and go further should the situation call for it. I will offer no mercy to Williams should he betray us. Should other Scorpion be present and betrayal occur, would you see them taken alive or executed?\"\n\nTsuta, in the meantime, found herself trying not to look to shocked at the decidedly abrupt change of fortunes. Mai's words regarding her compassion were welcomed, of course. At Kitsune Mori she had learned that taking *Any* Life was not something to be taken lightly. That wasn't the shocking part, however. After what had happened, Mai was now complimenting her honor? Moreover, she was apparently spoken highly of by Chiyoko and was in position to become the ambassador's Yojimbo?! It wasn't anything horrible, quite the opposite, but it was still rather jarring given everything that had occurred.\n\n*Damn it, don't screw this up. There'll be time to overthink later, when Fuji-san can listen. Besides... Being the Yojimbo of a woman like Mai?*\n\nFor the first time since the meeting began, a familiar sense of confidence filled Tsuta.\n\n\"It would be an honor to serve as your blade, Moshi-sama,\" She spoke, bowing her head. \"Whatever danger comes your way will have to go through me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Good. I am pleased we don't have any issues between us on this, Moshi-san.\" Mai figured the instance was done, but there was a little more left. \"Oh, I don't give a damn about the other Scorpion. Snap their necks for all I care. _If_ necessary.\" \n\nBut, then it was Tsuta's turn, and she had an order to accept. And the young woman did just that. \"Good,\" Mai said with a smile, \"I expect no less from you. Make sure you do was you say; my new 'security advisor' will be keeping an eye out. Literally, just the one, heh.\" Mai gave a bow to Tsuta. \"You'll find a new haori in your quarters, marking you as my sworn protector. Wear it with pride when you are serving me. Hopefully, you'll be coming with me to see the Otter.\" \n\nLooking back at the wine, she shrugged her shoulders. \"Well, might as well enjoy it, shouldn't we? Come, and drink with me, you two. All errors and misdeeds are forgiven, so why not enjoy a little wine before we find ourselves swimming against the current of work?\"\n\nAnd with that, Moshi Mai closed the meeting, and opened the wine. \n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "```Some hours later...```\n\nFor all that could be said of the Otter clan and their tendency to meddle in the affairs of their betters, it could not be said that their choice of vintage was lacking. Cherry Blossom Snow had come to be associated with battle and strife in the years following 1123, but before that, it was a name synonymous with excellent, if somewhat obscure, rice wine. Whatever the brewers at that most mountainous of lakes got up to, they had a true talent, infusing the subtle sweetness of cherry in a crystal clear, exquisitely smooth sake. Such a liquor surely cost one a sizable sum at the markets. Had the gift come from anyone else, it might have been a sign of esteem held for the ambassador of the Mantis clan.\n\n\"Uh... Mama Mai? Is it okay to come in?\"\n\nA small, mousy little voice interrupted the pleasant haze that came with the drinking of such a fine brew. From the sliding door of the ambassador's office, little Yuji poked a nervous head. A bit of a clumsy little lad, but diligent and well-meaning, it was his 'duty' around the embassy to tidy up after the often raucous samurai of the Mantis and see that everything was shipshape. A lesser-known duty of his was the breaking of particularly unpleasant news to one Moshi Mai. One was much less likely to catch an earful of profanity and threats if they were a scrawny boy of eight than a grizzled veteran of thirty, after all. \n\n\"I, uhm, I gots some news for you. Junko-sama says it's important.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai was reading a rather peculiar pillow book when she heard the little voice of little Yuji. She stopped at the part where the Doji Princess was about to show the Lion men how bawdy she was, and looked up at the boy. \"Oh, great. If it's important and you're here, it's hardly good news.\" She frowned, but she still beckoned the boy forth, stuffing the book away. \n\nJust when she was finally relaxed, too. With all the things in her head at the moment, and all the plans and schemes she needed to either thwart or start, the last thing she wanted was trouble. \n\n\"Yes, go on, Yuji-kun. What is it?\"."
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Little Yuji couldn't help but frown at Mai's words. Nobody liked being the bearer of bad news, especially when they had to bear bad news for a samurai! But still, the heimin boy shuffled through the shoji, dragging with him a large, circular disk of bleached wood that looked almost big enough to cover his body like a shield. He wielded it much like one, once he got in front of Mai's desk, holding onto the rim with his little hands and he shuffled a tad, clearly looking for how he could phrase the words relayed to him in a way that would be palatable for the ambassador.\n\n\"Well, uhm, it's sorta good news! Junko-sama says that there was a man that you were lookin' for. She said he, well, he liked to collect things for you. And that he went missin' back in spring. But they found him!\"\n\nTo his credit, little Yuji seemed to try and dress it up to the best of his ability. However, even an enthusiastic little helper like himself seemed to understand the storm on the horizon.\n\n\"It's just that... Uhm... Well, they found him real far away. In a place called the Island of Spicy Silk. In... In a barrel,\" His little eyebrows seemed to furrow sympathetically as he held up the wooden disc, \"I think this is the lid. But! But he was okay! Junko-sama said he was just a little skinny, was all, on account of bein' in there for a while.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"... _what?\"_\n\nMai's expression was clearly angry, and she sat up straight, looking downright furious. \"They put Hanzo in a barrel and shipped him back to the homeland?! Those... Those...!\" \n\nShe grit her teeth as she tried to compose herself. It was clear to her what happened. Hanzo went to get the money, and the Otter Clan decided to make their move. And since Mai was so busy with everything else, it looked like the Mantis let them get away with it. \n\n\"Damn it... If they were a great clan, I'd...\" Mai stopped, looking at the worried boy. \"So, he's alive, then. Fine. I will have him sent back here at once. He'll come with me to the Lake to see the Otter.\"\n\nMai stood, and took the lid from Yuji. \"Since the others seem to like to use you for bad news, let them know they're going to be working through the night getting my ship ready to sail. I'll be going to see these Otter as soon as possible. As for you, harbinger-kun...\" \n\nMai gave him a pat on the head. \"I respect your bravery, little boy. Tell Hayate in the kitchens to make you some dango, Mai's orders.\" She offered him a smile, but it was clear he was just an exception to the rule of her boiling anger. \"Dismissed, Yuji-kun. I have to get to work, so off you go \"\n\n||"
}
] | 379.5 | 6,453 |
459.538462 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "To say that Moshi Mai was thrilled to hear the Isles of Silk and Spice were sending a mercantile-minded Courtier to her aid was an understatement. \n\nShe had dutifully run the books herself, pulling triple duty: ambassador, Priestess and accountant, and while she was great at all three (according to her back and forth arguing with Yoritomo's assistants and advisors), she knew she was stretched too thin. So, when word came that one Yoritomo Sadao was on the way, she finally let out a sigh of relief. \n\nShe allowed Moshi Kana to meet him first; she liked to have the deceptively shrewd magistrate meet newcomers first, to gauge how she viewed them first, before she brought them in to see herself. \n\nHence, it was only after that, was Sadao's audience demanded of the Mantis Ambassador. They were to meet in her office, instead of the Grand hall or out in the gardens, as there was much to discuss and it was mostly about bookkeeping. Lots and _lots_ of bookkeeping. \n\nMai's desk was covered in scrolls, but they were organized, files, and dated with her script. Each one had her seal of approval for accuracy, and each one had a copy which was also signed and approved. The stack was a pyramid of bureaucracy. \n\nMeanwhile, all Mai had in front of her at the moment was a vial of orange paint, and a small brush, as she meticulously painted her nails. \n\nAs she idled, her yojimbo stood behind her, looking somewhat nervous. The day before, she had broken some rather important news, which had led to a rather heated, angry, and uncertain future for the ronin. But, she had yet to be told to leave, and she was not turned away when she arrived in the morning for her duties. \n\n\"... Moshi-sama-\"\n\n\"You know,\" Mai sighed, \"I never thought it'd be you that give me such a headache. Ronin and gaijin, it seems, always have the most to give when it comes to headaches.\" \n\n\"Yes, mistress, but-\"\n\n\"Couldn't you just fuck the stableboy like a normal ronin? Some samurai, really? Can you at least tell me who-\"\n\n\"I refuse.\" Chiyoko's tone was stern. \n\n\"...\" Mai went back to her painting. \"Right. Go ahead and fetch Sadao, dog.\" \n\nThe ronin bowed, and left the room to find the Yoritomo for the meeting. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "It was time to get to work. Everything must be kept in order, not least because Sadao's fellow Mantis were often an unruly bunch, but because they had to keep meticulous records to maintain proof of their hold on Rokugani economic prosperity. \n\nIf Sadao had his way, the River of Gold would be renamed something like Thunder's Promise River, in honor of the spirit that his Clan had proven in themselves. \n\nHe was dressed to impress, but not to make a statement. His look today was *Professional.* Black eboshi, teal kimono of fine but utilitarian embroidery detailing carp and bats, symbols of good fortune. \n\nThe Mantis mon was displayed prominently, and he had the scroll case in his obi as before. Spotting Chiyoko, the dark-eyed Sadao gave her a light but cursory bow. More respect than a typical ronin may deserve. He'd been given her description from some attendant earlier. \n\n\"Good day. Chiyoko-san, yes? This one is Yoritomo Sadao, and this one is here upon request of the noble Moshi Mai-sama. Forgive my curiosity... Are you well?\"\n\nA delicate road to navigate, what with the Yoritimo's methods bearing a strong emphasis on ronin or less scrupulous types."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"That is I, yes.\" Chiyoko bowed to the young samurai, nice and deep. She was ready to escort him to the office, when instead she was asked a question. The one-eyes woman blinked, and paused a moment as she looked him over, assessing the meaning of his question. Did she look _bad?_ Was he trying to say something? Make a point... Oh. \n\nOh, he was just being nice. Or, at least that was the conclusion she came to. \"I am well,\" She said with a nod, \"I thank you for asking, Yoirtomo-sama. But it is not I who you should be speaking with. If you follow me, I will take you to Moshi-sama.\" She would say this about the newcomer, he was polite. Something that could be a big help around these parts. \n\n\"Moshi-sama, may I introduce Yoritomo Sadao-sama.\" \n\nChiyoko introduced Sadao to Mai, who bowed from her seat, and ushered the man inside. \"Well met, Yoritomo-san,\" She said, \"Welcome to the embassy. I am Moshi Mai, A head priestess to Amaterasu, the Mantis Ambassador, and once upon a time, the Pirate Queen. Please, take a seat.\" She motioned to a soft cushion on the floor, and then used her finger to beckon Chiyoko inside. \"I take it you met Chiyoko-san,\" She said. \"Hopefully she wasn't too mean; she's a good guard dog, but she's got a bite to her, too.\" She gave Chiyoko a nod of approval, and in turn the yojimbo smiled softly. A good sign? Perhaps. \n\n\"I've already called for tea,\" Mai explained, \"So we'll wait for that before we get to business. For now, let me ask you, how were your travels? How fares your family?\""
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao would politely follow Chiyoko to Mai's office, and he would bow at the door when he was announced. After he was inside, he bowed again to her and her desk, listening to her introduction with rapt attention.\n\n\"It is an honor to be in the presence of one so storied and cherished, Moshi-sama,\" Sadao said without hiding the impression in his voice. A head priestess, a pirate of renown, and the chosen ambassador for the Clan all at once? It sounded like a lot of weight to carry.\n\nPerhaps she could relinquish one of those titles, one day... If Sadao proved himself.\n\n\"Moshi-sama's words no doubt speak to the quality of Chiyoko-san's ferocity should, kami forbid, she need defend Moshi-sama's honor or person. I am sure her *Kiai* Is more mighty than a Unicorn war-dog's, at that.\"\n\nHe'd move to sit on the cushion in seiza, before bowing at the prospect of tea. \"Moshi-sama's concern for this one's state and family are appreciated and admired, and speak to Moshi-sama's boundless compassion for her Clan. This one's travels were as expected.\" That is, without a hitch. \"This one's family is in good health. Yoritomo Izumi-san, this one's sister, is particularly blessed. This one is going to be an uncle soon.\" He wouldn't dare ask Mai how she was faring, to even suggest something might be wrong would be inappropriate at first meeting.\n\n\"How may this one serve the Clan?\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai took all the praise in stride, certainly flattered and enjoying it for what it was. \"It's clear to me that the Yoritomo Courtier School has put some serious work into making honorable young men out of their flock. When I was your age, all the Yoritomo were brutish, cocky and arrogant. Those were the days!\" She chuckled, and waved away the seriousness in the room. \"Please, relax a bit, Yoritomo-san. I am honored that you came in here with that level of respect and courtesy. It'll serve you well in this city. But here and now, you can rest easy. \n\n\"See, I run this embassy like a ship: We get the work done, we get it done right, or we all end up drawing. Now, I demand respect from those on my ship, but how you express it? That can change to an extent.\" She looked over at Chiyoko. \"Chiyoko, what do the servants call me?\" \n\n\"Mama Mai, Moshi-sama.\" \n\n\"That's right. Mama Mai. A captain name, when out at sea. On the high seas, courtesy and honor are next to useless, but compassion and courage are necessary in great abundance. In other words, as long as you get your work done and you don't do it in front of someone like the Crane or Phoenix or Lion, you can be just as lax.\n\n\"Now, as for what that work is,\" Mai said, \"It is all of these.\" She motioned to the scrolls, and presented one to Sadao outright. Within, there were figures and an index of the other scrolls. \"As you can see,\" Mai explained, \"There have been many businesses we've come to help with shipping, protection, or outright buying or loaning money to. All of which has been legitimate. We've been in a position that we haven't needed to do things in an unsavory way. Well, in an _illegal_ way. But, that's come with a lot of bookkeeping, which I've taken care of myself. \n\n\"But, now that you're here, Yoritomo-san,\" Mai chuckled, \"It looks like you can give me a big hand managing it all.\""
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Suddenly, Sadao's *Entire* Demeanor changed.\n\nHis shoulders relaxed, he sat up a bit straighter, shifting his sitting position to agura, crossing his legs and placing his hands on his knees. He smiled. \"Moshi-sama honors me in praising my school. I save my brutish, arrogant cockery for the right time and with the right targets. I must apologize, however, as I reserve Mama to my own mother. Moshi-sama was a pirate queen, Tsuruchi no Yoritomo Aya-dono was a renowned hunter of criminals... On the mainland.\" Quite out of the jurisdiction of a pirate queen.\n\n\"I may grow to call you as you say in time. Call it an over-emphasis on politeness if you like, but I am honest in my explanation as to why.\" He honors his own mama, dang it.\n\nHis dark eyes cast up to the pyramid of scrolls, and he said, \"Ah.\" Accepting the index scroll, he reached to his obi, opening up the scroll case and handing one to Chiyoko, to hand to Mai.\n\nEven when casual, don't disrespect somebody by handing them something that should be given to a servant first.\n\n\"That scroll is a record of the manifest and latest shipments, and what is to be brought back home. The divestment of koku is also listed, with some set aside for... Other needs.\" Greasing dishonorable palms, bribing guards, more illicit trade.\n\n\"What do most of our clientele consist of? Who are our strongest business partners? If I am given time to study this, well... I am confident that Moshi-sama may pass all of this into my hands.\"\n\nThere was a moment of a bare smirk, before he went back to a more business-neutral expression."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I can respect that,\" Mai replied in turn, \"As long as you get results, you can call me anything but Obaasan. That will get you _killed.\"_ She sounded threatening ||Intimidate 4||, but a smile and snorting laugh soon followed. \"Don't worry, I'm just joking,\" She chuckled. \"I'd never kill somebody for something like that. Hurt, maybe.\" She certainly had a way of telling jokes ||jokester Strength||, but so far, the meeting was going well. \n\nChiyoko took the scroll case and handed it to Mai, who was surprised by the extra step of etiquette. This young man was going to impress some Crane and Otomo, that much was certain. Opening the scroll, she looked it over with scrutiny. \"Let us see... Building materials, rice... Yes, that sounds about the same as usual to send back. And... Hm, plenty of spice and silk. Business as usual...\" \n\nShe stopped when she took note of the koku set aside for _influencing_ stubborn people. \"And a clever man, you are.\" She pulled a blank sheet of paper, and took the brush she used to paint her nails to write out something in orange ink. \"However, you won't be using that koku. _That_ koku is for legitimate business only. I want our books to match, and all books to have nothing but clean, legitimate holdings. I will _not_ have our enemies come at us and accuse us of being thieves and charlatans. Part of our reason we're all the way over here is to legitimize our existence. They want to call us pirates and thugs, and we will show them we're so much more.\n\n\"That said, you can take this...\" She took her chop and stamped the paper, a writ for the full amount of koku put on the scroll. \"...And get that from our coffers. When I was just a pirate in a big city, I... Liberated some koku from some bandits. A _lot_ of it. That money is unaccounted for, not written down, other than in my own mind. So, use that for any illegitimate means. The Mantis' coin is for honorable business only.\"\n\nMai slid the scroll over, and went over the business side. \"Now, our chief clients are shopkeepers in the merchants district, needing deals on exotic goods, and the river shipping companies looking for protection on the river. The bandits along the river have gotten more brazen, and I had to go wipe out a group myself with some other clans. We're hoping to establish some sort of checkpoint on the river as a means to checking goods and searching for contraband, once the Unicorn takes the city. We've also tricked the Scorpion into allowing us to host a pleasure ship in the city, _Tomodachimaru._ We provided almost everything but opium, which is fine by me. It brings in a profit, but its secondary use hasn't made much headway. At the moment, we're hitting a snag with the Otter Clan. They have been stealing business from us. Or, us from them. Either way, we're taking this river and making it our domain. \n\n\"We've made allies with the Unicorn, yet not officially, and we've decided to play nice with the Crane. I've... Made a deal with them. And we have a joint venture with the Lion Clan, to open a bathhouse. We're not allies, but a shugenja in the Lion Clan, Kitsu Miu, well, I like her. She's got an honest heart, so her want for a therapeutic bathhouse is honorable. Plus, it'll undermine the Scorpion, something else I'm keen to do.\" \n\nMai sighed, and crossed her arms. \"As you can tell, there's a lot going on that I need another mercantile mind looking at. I'm entrusting you with handling the numbers, copying all the ledgers, and making sure that at the end of the day, the Mantis are legitimate and honorable. Once you've proven that, we'll discuss bigger picture items.\""
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao took the harsh intonations from his superior in stride. He was trained in the art of the threat, both subtle and overt, and how to countenance it in a stoic manner ||Willpower Earth||, and her laughter only made him smile.\n\nWhen she said that he wasn't going to be using the discretionary fund for the typical Mantis... Shenanigans, he was questioning her judgment in his mind, but would not do so aloud. Then she dropped the other card, and *That's* When his brows rose in surprise. Not that he admired her cleverness, but that she trusted him with her personal stores. He'd only just arrived, and Clan or no Clan, that was a big offer in trust.\n\nHe carefully accepted the scroll, rolling it up and placing it in his case, shutting it with a snap. \"Nobody fights on the shores like the Mantis,\" He agreed. \"With brazen bandits, I suppose it may have to behoove me to see just how depraved some may be... Or how flexible.\" Put some screws to some of the unruly types and see if they may be more amenable to working for them in a legitimate fashion.\n\nThen she dropped a *Hanabi* In his lap.\n\n\"The Unicorn and Ryoko Owari Toshi?\" The words came out almost as a whisper. Her other plans were shared, but the knowledge of such a brazen plan? This was dangerous. This was exciting. \"As long as we hold the river and the port, all will be well. I must share with you, Moshi-sama, that my specialties have been in maintaining a foothold by providing two necessities and one... Extracurricular option that plays to the secret hearts, or in this case tongues, of the buke, and with fortune on our side, the kuge. Everyone needs silk from the most basic yukata to the most exemplary kimono, and we have the *Finest* Silk. Everyone, from the humble craftsman, to the hard-bitten ronin, to the Seppun Guard, requires lacquer for their daisho at the least.\"\n\n\"And last, for those of more refined tastes... Spices to show there is more to life than congee.\" This was followed by a laugh. \"It will be done.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Don't tell me you weren't informed of the movings here.\" Mai was amused at the reaction Sadao had of the news about the Unicorn. \"Indeed, we were originally allied with the Scorpion, if only because teh Crane intended to rally with the Unicorn. As far as I see it, the Scorpion have the right to the city, and a damned city, at that. But that was also before our clan was disrespected time and time again by the Scorpion... And before I realized that the Crane are horrendously weak-willed at the moment.\" \n\nMai smirked, but paused as a servant brought in tea for the both of them. The servant poured for the two samurai, and after a warm sip, Mai continued. \"The Crane are surely using the Unicorn as a means to an end, but they're so silent and unhelpful, it gave us an opportunity to show our worth. The Unicorn are an honorable lot, and much like ourselves, they have a bad reputation, unwarranted to boot. That might just be my gaijin blood speaking out, but the Unicorn haven't done a thing to us in the history of our Clans. Makes more sense to be allies because of that than enemies.\" \n\nMai didn't speak after Sadao explained his side of things, and what he could provide. She just took him in as he was. So, a minute or two of silence passed before she sipped her teeth and spoke again. \"Yoritomo Sadao,\" She announced, \"I have high hopes for you.\" She raised her cup and bowed her head to him. \"Here is to you, and your family, soon-to-be _Uncle Sadao-san.\"_ She smiled, and placed her cup down. \n\n\"Now, if you have any questions, ask away. You're useless if you're ignorant, yes?\""
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "\"I will not, but I will say I was only informed of so much,\" Responded Sadao. He'd thought that the Mantis may have eyes on the city itself, but an agreement to give it to the Unicorn? Bold. Dangerous. He respected it.\n\n\"They had disrespected us? I must know these details. Forewarned is forearmed, especially in the courts. I do not wish to shame the Mantis.\" Sadao took a sip of tea after Mai, and listened intently. \"Silent Crane means they probably have business elsewhere, and more to them. That the Lion have a vested interest is concerning... They're fairly judgmental of our pasts, what with their obsession with history.\"\n\nHe made a slow blink when she said she had hopes for him. He wasn't sure if it was sincere, or simply acceptance that this is what the Clan had sent. He raised his cup and bowed as well when she toasted to him and his family. \"To you and yours, Moshi-sama.\" He took another, longer sip, and by the look on his eyebrows, possibly burned his tongue a little.\n\n\"I get the feeling I will be more useful with questions after I peruse that stack of scrolls. However, I suppose the most important things I must know are: how have the Scorpion disrespected us? Who are the Otter, and how are they slowing our progress along riverside dominance? I am surprised we have not simply bought them. And finally... I already know to expect the unexpected in a Shosuro city. What dangers should I be made aware of?\" He was, after all, a yojimboless courtier."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "For once, Mai wasn't too keen to speak. It was clear on her face that the incidents around the Scorpion weren't ones that she was wanting to bring back up. Indeed, while many of the Mantis knew _what_ happened, Mai wasn't one to talk about _how_ it went down. So, she would leave out some of the more embarrassing bits, or at the very least finagle them a little. \n\n\"When we joined up with the Scorpion, it was to get some money and beat up the Crane Clan. Simple as that. We'd go in, disrupt, bully and beat those dainty birds into submission. But, it al relied on the Scorpion being as clever, resilient, and shrewd as they claim to be. Instead, we got inaction from the Scorpion, and harebrained schemes. We were embarrassed at the beginning of my tenure at the first conference of the ambassadors, when I inadvertently revealed a forgery scheme done by the late Shosuro governor. A scheme he didn't tell his _ally_ about, leaving us entirely exposed and looking idiotic. _That_ governor and the Unicorn ambassador at the time killed themselves in a duel over that very conference. \n\n\"Then, the _next ambassador came and went. And then another. I met the first one never, the second one once, and I only learned of his existence when a Scorpion came to visit me by sneaking into my rooms. In the throes of... Let's simply say a widow's loneliness, I didn't throw her out, and enjoyed some...\" She motioned with her hands as if to say 'you know what I mean,\" And continued. \"She then asked me to find gaijin pepper to plant on the Unicorn, and to side with her if the new ambassador needed to be taken out. At that point, I had met no ambassadors, suffered insult, and was asked to fetch forbidden material. Another incident occured, but that was forgiven and handled. The point remains, the Scorpion clan is a a rudderless ship, and they tossed out the sails ages ago.\"\n\n\"Now, the Otter Clan. They're a minor clan I haven't heard of, but they were at the Battle of Cherry Blossom Snow, or so I've been told. We know little, other than that they reside on Cherry Blossom Snow Lake, and they don't like the Mantis Clan. Why, is ia mystery to me. I sent some scouts out to see how many businesses or guilds use the Otter as river guards, but I feel they will not bring any choice results. But, either way, I intend to meet them as soon as I can, and broker a deal. They might hate us, but they certainly won't like us if we choke them out of work. There's no reason we can't figure something out. Especially when I have unmarried samurai to offer.\" \n\n\"As for the city, you have a couple dozen things to worry about. The Phoenix almost caused a riot among the hinin, so the Leatherworkers Quarter can be dangerous for a Samurai. To make matters worse, there are the fireman gangs. Most of them are thugs looking for a handout or a racket; we've had to chase off a few groups here and there from our _own_ rackets. Be mindful of the Strong Arms especially; they'll kill Samurai, brazenly so.\" She leaned in a little, as if to whisper. \"And there are _kolat_ in the city. I know not how many, but cancer is cancer, and this body has some.\n\n\"The more I speak of it, the more uneasy it's making me to have you out and about on your own.\" Moshi Mai took some notes down, and called for a servant. \"I am assigning you a yojimbo,\" She said, \"She's a ronin named Karasu, like mine, but she'll do well for the time being. Once we find a more suitable candidate, we'll switch them out. Her name is Kiseru. Used to be a Crane, then a thug with ten fingers. Then she tried to kill _me._ Now, she's a good dog with _eight.\"_ Mai chuckled, remembering that night. And the Crab scout that... No, best not to think about her. \n\n\"For now, catch your bearings, make connections, and make sure to play nice with any Crane you meet. If they give you any trouble, biring the issue to me. I'll take care of it.\""
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao listened. And listened. And listened. He was as silent as a stone, looking at the Moshi's hair as not to meet her eyes. \n\nHer sordid tale of Scorpion manipulation and incompetence was stirring. To his knowledge the Moshi were the more traditional... Perhaps she took the name when she was married. She did say she was a widow. These were thoughts to put aside. \n\n\"Insofar as the Otter are concerned, Imperial law dictates we cannot make war on them. If we need to make them fall to dogeza, Dojo Raiden has techniques... For them, and the firemen. If the Strong Arms are so bold, an example must be made when we have the resources. As far as the Kolat go... I will leave that to the magistrates.\"\n\nThe Kolat were a conspiracy he knew next to nothing about, beyond 'avoid, if at all possible.' He took a breath, thinking. \"Moshi-sama's concern is appreciated.\" Raven, and Smoking Pipe. \"As long as a yojimbo can do their part in being vigilant and protecting me against threats, I will have them at my side. Is there a room I may go to, to study these scrolls? I need to absorb all of this,\" And it was a goddamn pile, \"And I do not wish to interrupt your duties in your office while I do.\" He will also need ink and paper to make copies and to sign them with his chop.\n\nThis might be a long few days of paper-pushing, but he was going to make sure the Mantis' ledger was in order."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai chuckled, a little too loudly. \"I love youthful samurai,\" She said pleasingly, \"They always have such big ideas. No, when it comes to the Otter, we will go in as friends and make friends. I'm a bully at heart, but bullying lessers is hardly a rewarding experience. As for the Strong Arms, we'll leave them to the Crane. They have their business with the fireman gangs and we'll let them throw bodies at that problem for the time being. \n\n\n\"As for you, you'll find that you have sleeping and working quarters available to you. It's not much, but you'll have a desk and more. I'll have my crew- ah, servants- bring you these scrolls in due time. For now, get yourself acquainted with the embassy. Relax a spell; you'll be hard at work very soon enough.\" \n\nMat stood, and gave one last bow to Sadao before turning her back on him, showing that he was dismissed to his leisure. \"Oh, and once again, Yoritomo Sadao-san: Wellcome to Ryoko Owari Toshi.\""
}
] | 389 | 5,974 |
167.657143 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "The little white rabbit that emerged from one of the private quarters in the embassy though a small crack in the door lifted its head, sniffing the air. He had not had the opportunity to wander the halls freely before, usually kept under close supervision. Yet with his owner distracted with that colored cloth she was always so interested in, Fuji decided now was the time he would no longer be denied. He was going to satisfy his curiosity.\n\nHe hopped out into the hallway. Slowly at first; his ears twitched and rotated slightly as he listened to the footsteps around him. Once he was satisfied he was not being pursued, he took a few more hops outward. And then a few more. He rose up onto his hind legs and back on all fours every now and then as he continued his journey, trying to get a better view of what lay ahead.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "The sound of Tabi and silk gliding on hardwood flooring filled the hallways of the Embassy. It was a a sound that came and went as long as the sun's light stood in the sky and the Samurai, and their servants milled around. And of course, the soft sound also followed Kitsune Meiko as she moved towards the private quarters. She definitely was a new face in the Embassy.\n\nAs she turned into the hallway that Fuji currently was exploring the sound of her shuffling footsteps stopped as soon as she noticed the furry little critter, raising to its hind legs to look around and then hopping on a little. Some might shriek in surprise as they spied the small animal, but Kitsune Meiko only smiled, ever so slowly making two steps before she lowered herself to kneel, reaching out a hand very slowly towards the small ball of white. The Brown of her Kimono and the forest green of the Obi might only appear as shades of yellow to the small creature of the fields and light forests.\n\nThe hand just waited, the fingers together, a little bit over the polished wood floor, and offering a new smell to explore... Or if Fuji was very adventurous, the inside of a the Furisode's long sleeves.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "There's a click of Fuji's nails on the hardwood floor as he approaches the new person curiously, ears turning to face forward as he sniffed the offered hand. After only a few moments, this was evidently enough for the rabbit to decide that the new person meant well. He lowered his head, his expression as expectant as a rabbit could manage. For one familiar with woodland creatures, it was evident that he expected grooming. Or pets, in the case of people!\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "It's a low chuckle that shows the amusement of the young Kitsune, her fingers rising to just a little above the rabbit's fuzzy little head. A heartbeat or three later, the second hand moved to hold the long sleeve of the Furisode back as she extended the first, so she could reach the back of the little bunny's head without shoving the sleeve in its face. \"Ahw... You look like you know humans mean you no harm, aren't I right?\"\n\nHer musing is accompanied by the fingers seeking to brush the fur between the small one's ears, her position slightly bent over forwards, a lock of her hair escaping the tight confines she had tied them into to make a good imression. \"I wonder, have you escaped from soneone's room or did you get lost from your owner as they looked the other way in the garden? I hope you have not lost them out there in the streets. That would be quite a trouble to find them...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Fuji tucked his legs beneath him and got comfortable, starting to resemble more of a loaf as he did. His ears relaxed and flopped back against his shoulders, and he began gently grinding his teeth; a purring sound that would have been audible to Meiko. The bunny's eyelids even looked like they might get heavy for a moment as he enjoyed the pets and attention given to him. He didn't look *Too* Grateful, of course; one should feel privileged to pet a coat such as this, after all!\n\nThe reverie would be broken by a sudden shout of \"Kuso!\" And some panicked footsteps emerging from one of the rooms. A dimunitive samurai, fox-colored hair tied into several braids, rushed out, as though looking frantically for something. Or someone.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "With the bunny apparently getting quite comfortable, the young Kitsune shuffled forward just a little bit more, so she could better reach the back with the second hand, using both to floof through the little loaf of white fur. \"You must make someone worried with you taking this little expedition.\" The sound of her voice is slightly chiding, but then again, one doesn't expect the bunny to fully understand.\n\nThen, the loud sound of someone shoving a door open violently, the sound of anger and the panicked footsteps emerge from somewhere down the halls. Fearing someone might need the space and would stumble over them, the hands repositioned to lift the little loaf of Bun, and a moment later she pulled Fuji up and against that brown Furisode she wore. Holding the bunny and giving him little scritches, she shuffled to the side of the hallway, making sure that it was free for whoever seemed to need it in a hurry.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Fuji would tense up at the sudden lifting, his eyes getting wide and his ears perking up. He would soon recognize that no, no hawk was coming to scoop him up and make him their dinner, but for a rabbit, it was still rather frightening for a moment! With the woman's handling skills, though, he would not put up much of a fight, calming down fairly soon.\n\nThe red haired woman's eyes darted from left to right as she made her way down the hall, looking to Meiko in concern. \"Excuse me, have you seen- FUJI!\" She cried out in relief, letting out a breath she had evidently been holding for some time. \"Fuji, you know you're not supposed to sneak out...\"\n\nIf the rabbit showed any sign of regret, it was not present here.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Caressing the little bundle of fur and suppressed panic, Kitsune Meiko gently breathed down the back of the little critter, calming him and soothing the little one's nerves. But when the woman with the hair the color of a fox's pelt arrives, she looks up, her own black hair ever so slightly out of its confines.\n\nThat's when the woman clearly realizes that the bunny she is holding seems to be the reason of the concearn the red haired one has. \"He was out alone in the hallway. I hope it is okey that I reached out for them?\" She repositioned her hands a little, making sure to hold him nicely but also allow her to offer the unrepentant bunny to its owner.\n\n\"You might get Fuji a band that tells who they are. As the name sounds, maybe of Wisteria color, so everybody can recognize their name without needing to read the message it carries?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, yeah, of course!\" She replied. \"He's kind of a brat, but he loves attention.\" She seemed to calm down fairly quickly once she realized her little companion was safe. \"If you want, I can give you some dried fruit to feed the guy. He'll be all over you then.\"\n\n\"Oh, right, sorry. Manners and all that.\" She tucked a braid behind her ear and bowed to her. \"Kitsune Tsuta. Nice to meet you. Thank you as well for wrangling Fuji. I was a little sloppy with the door, and he was a little bored waiting for me to finish painting. If you haven't quite noticed yet, he's got a bit of a need to be the centre of attention. Not a bad idea with the band, though!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "As Tsuta spoke, Meiko noded, taking in the introduction and bowing in return while keeping the bunny halfway embraced and halfway pampered on the arm. \"I am Kitsune Meiko. Please be kind to me. It's a pleasure to see another member of the family so far out from our forests.\"\n\n\"It's nothing. He was looking so lost in the hallway, I couldn't help but offer them a hand and some pets. If there would be proper forest here, a stroll in it would be nice, but I heard that there is only little woodland around.\" Chuckling just a tad, the voice almost like happy little bells, she groomed the head of the bunny, carefully even toying with the ears.\n\n\"You are painting as a pasttime? I do have an interest in it myself, though I can't say I am skilled in any means.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Likewise! For a while I was thinking the closest we'd get to another Kitsune was that magistrate from the Dragon. Been here for very long? How are you finding the city?\"\n\nTsuta reached out her hand to give the little explorer a few pets. \"Well, that's awfully nice of you. If he's not supposed to be someplace, then that's *Exactly* The place that he wants to be.\" Her tone then grew more wistful as the topic came to the woods. \"Honestly... Closest thing we got around here to some nice woods is the target range at the Tsuruchi dojo. Just... Well, gotta make that koku somehow, I suppose.\"\n\nWhatever melancholy she felt though, seemed to fade at the mention of painting. She leaned against a pillar. \"I'm pretty decent at it. Probably not going to be doing any work for the Emperor, at least not today, but I think I do well,\" She noted with a smirk. \"As for yourself, well, you ever try it?\"\n\nFuji, in the meantime, seemed to relax a bit more, the ears seeming to do the trick.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "The young shugenja shook her head while she gave the bunny's head a good scratching behind the ears while she maneuvered him to rest on one arm. There was enough space to reach the bun without touching skin, though it might get a little tight in some moments. \"Very... Different to Kyuden Kitsune. There I could make no step and not see a tree older than the elders preaching and teaching in the temples and shrines, and here the oldest I have seen seem to be planted at best by our parents' generation.\"\n\n\"I did however hear someone mention a large garden of sorts. I haven't had a chance to see this with my own eyes though. But then again, I have not spent not even two days in the city.\"\n\nThe topic of painting again earns a smile. \"I dabble with the brush, but the Ambassador seems to have liked my amateurish impression of our common home.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta listened to her description, feeling a sort of melancholy as she did. At the very least, it seemed she wasn't alone. \"I know exactly what you mean... Back at Kyuden Kitsune, my auntie would tell me stories about some of the trees we'd climb up, and how they watched over my great, great, great grandparents. How many creatures they gave homes to, and all the stories that they witnessed in their lives. There's just not the same history here. There's some absolutely beautiful places, and I got an invitation to some kind of fancy garden, but it's not the same, you know?\"\n\nFuji seemed rather uninterested in the story, grinding his teeth in delight. If one listened closely, they might even hear a soft little \"Oinking\" Of sorts.\n\n\"So, you have tried then. And the boss lady likes it! That counts for something, right? If you'd like, I'd be happy to take a look myself.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Petting the little creature as she held it, Meiko smiled a little sadly. \"That seems to be how the Scorpion shape the land they were given. Their plans and designs touch even the way the trees are allowed to grow. Our family embraced the land as it was given and just took and shaped what they needed.\" Inhaling a moment, the head of the young shugenja tilts just ever so slightly. \"Do you happen to mean a large garden or one of those fancy yards, as they had in the waystations I had seen on the way to here.\"\n\nEven as Fuji was wholly uninterested in the talks of the humans, the fingers kept toying with his soft fur, stroking the ears and the back of the head, like there was nothing to it.\n\n\"Sadly I did not bring inks and paints in my traveling pack for fear of water turning them into smudges on the books of tales I have brought. If only I had known that I might meet someone interested in it, I had packed them and some of my tries.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Yeah... I don't know what all that buzz in the city is about how the kami don't approve of the Scorpion losing governorship. Maybe it's because I'm no shugenja or anything like that, but I can't imagine the Kami being like 'yeah, no, just exploit the land, don't care for it.'\" She shook her head, seeming genuinely bothered until she was snapped from it by the question. \"Oh, sorry. Didn't mean to get too much on a rant there. Uh, yeah! I think it's actually a garden of a good size that's part of a teahouse. I'll make sure to give you the full report afterwards. Though you also gotta let me know if you see anything!\n\nFuji's eyes by this point were completely shut, the oinking just the slightest bit louder as he was completely lost to a bunny trance.\n\n\"Really? That's too bad, you got my hopes up,\" She replied, smiling to let the Shugenja know the comment was made in good humor. \"I'd be more than happy to let you borrow some of mine though, if you ever wanted to have a session.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"I don't understand the will of the kami at all times, but treated correctly, the kami might allow for widespread change to their homes. It would be a large task, and include not just a little making up for it, but...\" The young Kitsune shrugged a tad as she played with the trancy bunny. \"They might have found a way long ago.\"\n\n\"I will look out for the gardens, and maybe even try to get permission for that fabled one that they say is as large as a small hamlet. That is by far not the vastness of the Kitsune Mori, but maybe they have managed to get some inspiration into it.\"\n\nSmiling with the head slightly tilted at the humorous note, Meiko nodded. \"If you would be so kind to let be borrow your colors, maybe I can try to indulge you. Maybe a session together?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Perhaps you're right. I knowmI'm certainly not in any position where I could just up and ask them. Still... Hard to imagine the scorpiom being the ones who found a way.\" She chuckled a bit at the thought.\n\n\"Wait, there's some gardens the size of a hamlet here?\" Tsuta's eyes grew wide with excitement. \"Oh, you *Have* To tell me if you find out where it is! And yeah! Yeah, a painting session together sounds like it would be great!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"You know what they say abotu the scorpion, right?\" Kitsune Meiko smiles as she steps just a tad closer, checking if noone else was around before she whispered. \"Trickery might be afoot.\"\n\n\"It is decided then! We will have to explore that garden together, once we find it and put our inspirations onto paper!\" Looking down at the critter on her arm, she smiled and gave him a tiny little bob. \"Would you... Like to take Fuji now? I think he is having a nap.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta shot her a knowing smirk, keeping her voice in a whisper as well. \"Trickery? From the Scorpion? In the city of lies? That's a pretty bold claim, Kitsune-san,\" She joked.\n\n\"All right. I guess I can take the little guy, though he did look pretty comfortable...\" She reached over to take the rabbit into her arms, Fuji giving no indication of his awareness beyond a twitch of his nose. She cradled him in her arms as though she were a baby, her eyes soft as she looked down at him. \"Who'a a good little bunny...\" She murmured.\n\nRaising her head up, she nodded in agreement. \"That sounds like a great plan. Two birds with one stone!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Answering with a chuckle that some might connect to little bells, Kitsune Meiko was clearly amused. \"I think they prefer City of Stories, Kitsune-san.\"\n\nGiving up Fuji is by far not that easy without making any contact, and as there was a short moment of fingers touching, Meiko's cheeks did fluster. It couldn't be helped, but still, that was almost scandalously public! Yet, there was at least a good excuse: To not hurt the bunny. \"Fuji is a good little bunny. Though, he's also a good big bunny.\" She muses, trying to play over her embarrassment.\n\nEven as it was a proverb about the two birds, Meiko's nose twitches and a tiny bit of dismay starts to show around her eyes. \"Two birds in one tree, if you will. Killing them is such a waste...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, I know what they prefer,\" She chuckled. \"But I get the feeling you're not the type to let the Scorpion ambassador know!\" She teased.\n\nAs Tsuta accepted the rabbit back, she couldn't help but smile a little bit at Meiko getting flustered, but immediately bowed slightly. \"My apologies,\" She spoke, hoping that it would help ease her sense of embarassment. \"He is on the big side, that's for sure.\" She craned her head to look Fuji in the eye. \"That's because *Somebunny* Eats too many treats.*\"\n\nFuji could only make a tiny, indignant little growl in response.\n\n\"Truly, though, if you have any fruit around him, there's a decent chance he might steal a bit right out of your hand, it you let him!\"\n\nTsuta rubbed the back of her neck though, noting Meiko's displeasure at her expression. \"Yeah... I do agree, sorry. Just my auntie used to say that a lot. When we were training, she taught me the importance of survival out there and what needed to do. Still, I never liked the idea of an animal dying just so I could have a meal.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"Wouldn't that be because somebunny has access to too many treats?\" Meiko answered, adding some genuine laughter, though she did raise her hand to cover her lips for a moment. \"So he is a little gourmet!\"\n\n\"I... I know. But the proverb is so crude.\" Inhaling, she brushes the bridge of her own nose a moment. \"I have learned the ways to follow the tracks of animals and even how to sneak up to them but... I also learned the prayer to calm them. Even if it might save a life, it would be a terrible thing, would I harm an animal that I have fed from my hand and brushed the head of. It... It might be a crime against Chikushudo to do so without dire need if I did so.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta burst out laughing. \"Hey! Could you resist a face like that?\"\n\nShe held up Fuji so that she would be eye-level with Meiko. Fuji's nose twitched, looking completely resigned to the fact that for now, he was there to be shown off.\n\nTsuta's laugh trailed off as the conversation steered back into more serious territory. Her expression, though, actually seemed to brighten. \"Oh, fortunes, you have no idea how great it is to have someone who feels the same way. I know that we're higher on the celestial order, but the lands, and the animals? We're all connected. If we can live without causing undue harm to that, then I feel like it's our *Duty* To do that.\"\n\nThe usually cocky smile the Kitsune wore seemed softer now, more genuine, as they continued to speak. She had yet to encounter anyone who shared her philosophy since coming to the city.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"You can never be sure if an animal is not a spirit wearing it either, unless you ask, and they answer only to few.\" Meiko answered, solemly nodding. \"Is, compassion, even with the beings of the forest, so rare in this town? I mean, it's common enough to find such at home I thought...\"\n\n\"But indeed, it's pretty hard to resist a munching face such as Fuji-sans. He makes me want to find a seamstress that might make him a little Haori.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta could only nod in response. Not being a Shugenja, it was a possibility she hadn't considered before, even as she knew that spirits often assumed such forms. \"Some would tell you different, that animals are treated well enough. Yet there's still plenty on the market, even when as far as I can tell, there's no shortage of soybeans or any other crops.\" She sighed. \"It's a reminder just I guess how special home really is.\"\n\nThe sour mood would be lifted, however, by the mention of an outfit for the regal little bunny. \"I think he would really like that, actually! Not at first, he'd throw a big fit, but when he realizes how important it makes him look...\" She giggled, rather than chuckled this time.\n\n\"What about you? Any little companions of your own?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"Some people also test their blades on convicts or dogs, or so they say.\" Meiko remarks, sighing a moment. \"But at times it seems like we are the only family that actually practices compassion...\"\n\nA shudder runs through the young Shugenja's body, then the giggle about the suggestion to dress Fuji and how he might struggle against it proves to be contagious. \"And once he realizes how much more pets he gets wearing it, he might demand to have it put on. Or he secretly hides it away to not be confronted with it again.\"\n\n\"I have none that took the long trip with me, but I believe that I was pretty liked by a family of foxes that was living close to the Shrine of Inari, and who enjoyed taking pieces of fish from my fingers and little pets on their heads.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Yeah...\" She shook her head. \"Got a reminder of that the other day at the market. Wanted my testimony so they could beat some poor kid to death for not even actually managing to steal anything. Even offered to let me do the *Honors*,\" She continued, the contempt plain in her voice.\n\n\"But I don't want to bring the conversation down too much.\" She offered a bit of a smile, happy for the change of topic to a potential outfit for Fuji. \"Honestly? Once it's done, he can probably go either way. Only one way to find out...\"\n\nThe oblivious little bunny's nose twitched.\n\n\"Oh, that's great! I can imagine they probably didn't take too long to warm up to you. If today was any sign, you're great with animals.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "Extending a hand to boop the twitchign bunny nose, Meiko offers a little chuckle and smile. \"Well, we might want to look for a seamstress for the little lord Usagi then, unless you know one already. And if it is just to see how he reacts to it.\"\n\n\"I hope so, but you seem to be not bad with them either.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Unfortunately, I'm not sure of any seamstresses that work on such a small scale. For that matter, I'm not certain I can find one that wouldn't try to laugh me out of a building. Though...\" She smirked. \"Part of me does want to at least ask around. Both to see if we can get something for Fuji-san, and then to see what their reaction would be to the request.\"\n\n\"As for myself... Well, I'm not gonna be asked to tame wolves or bears or anything like that, but I've learned enough about the importance of respect for animals, care for them, and especially when it comes to this one.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"Hmmm, that might make things a little more complicated. But I doubt they would deny a honest Samurai's request for such an item, especially if you tell them you are with the embassy and to... What was it... To just put it on its bill? Though, I haven't yet understood how that is supposed to work. I never needed to do so in the Palace of the Fox, only ask my instructor and have the request denied or accepted and dealt with if I needed something.\" Offering a little smile, she tried to fix a lock of hair that had escaped.\n\n\"I wouldn't try to tame such a majestic beast if it isn't necessary, but the prayer for it is one I almost know by heart.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Hah! Y'know, the boss might get mad at me if I did that. So Fuji better be working on his best pleading face if I'm gonna get any hope of getting away with it.\" She laughed. \"Tell you what, though, if you ever find someone good with that kind of thing, let me know, and I'll do it. At this point? We've talked about it enough that we have to go through with it, y'know?\"\n\n\"Prayer, eh? You're a shugenja, then?\" She asked, visibly curious. \"Shoot, I guess I should have been saying Kitsune-sama then...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"Some day I will understand how this works, and then we shall try to get Fuji-san dressed. Or I look into learning the path of the needle myself and see if a piece of clothing that is past its years can turn into such a garment, as it is custom to turn them into clothes for the younger.\"\n\nThere's almost a flush on her face as she shakes her head at the suggestion that Tsuta overstepped. \"Nono, I am not worthy of that much praise! And besides, we are of the same family, if extended. To the others serving at the shrine, I was often enough Meiko-san to those close to me, while Kitsune Meiko-san for everyone else. Calling me Kitsune-sama always reminds me of people kneeling to ask to receive my aide. Would it be asked too much to just see me as someone of roughly equal status, especially since you seem to be the more veteran between the two of us?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Awww... I'm sure he appreciates you suggesting that for him. Even in jest.\" She continued her laughter at the idea. \"Would you like that, Fuji-san?\" She asked, her deeper, more relaxed voice raising an octave as she cooed at the rabbit.\n\nThe rabbit made a tiny little oinking sound.\n\n\"And got it, no -samas. Honestly, I'm a little bit grateful for that myself. Makes it easier to remember. Kitsune Meiko-san it is. Though... I'll remember that -sama if I ever do need to get on my knees and ask for aid,\" She joked.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "linnefer",
"message": "\"We will have to figure that out some day. Oh, do you happen to know where the embassy's roomservant can be found? I need to inquire with them about my room and such.\" There's an apologetic smile on her lips, as they offer the oinking Rabbit a little head pat.\n\n\"Please try not to. I still wear Furisode and you want to call me an older lady?\" She tries to counter the joke, a little flush on her cheeks as Tsuta suggests to beg for her help.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Woah, woah, woah! I would *Never*!\" She insists, winking. \"Have a little more faith in my manners than that. I'd just want to make sure if there's ever a situation where you'd be saving my life, that I'd be showing the proper respect, is all!\" The Kitsune continued without seeming to miss a beat. || Advantage: All In Jest || \"That said, Furisode? That's a little surprising. Not that I'm really in that different of a boat...\"\n\n||"
}
] | 169 | 5,868 |
175.5625 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "It was strange not to be at the docks to greet the new arrivals. Kana had been making a habit of going to greet the new Mantis as they arrived, but her duties had been picking up, and there were enough people coming in that it wasn't quite feasible. It was a good thing, so be sure, to have so many people coming in! Just a good thing with complications.\n\nShe sat at her desk in her office, looking over a bit of paperwork, when a familiar boy pushed slid her door open. \"Uh, good morning, Moshi-sama! There's someone here to see you. It's a Tsuruchi-sama?\"\n\nKana smiled warmly at the boy. \"Why, thank you, Yuji-san! Please, send him in.\" She stood up, prepared to receive the new samurai as Yuji ran out to the hall to help direct the new arrival inside.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*The great City of Lies had lived up to its name. From the Scorpion j-samurai overcharging for gate entry to the farrier politely telling Ichiro he'd wait a month for a new shoe on Kaze or he could \"Expedite\" The process financially, the City of Lies had definitely not disappointed. Finding the furoshiki had been an easy, if not to say expensive, endeavor. The gift inside of the formal wrapping, a simple affair of finely crafted metalwork in the shape of a mantis to either be worn akin to a broach, hair pin or fashioned into a menuki if so wished procured further east within more friendly a region. Fashion and function even when fashion was called for was very much in keeping with Ichiro's ascetic bent and well-made if simple formal attire. A penchant that, unfortunately, didn't sit well with most elegant lords and the like but he learned years ago it was better to be ignored and useful than useless and ostentatious when one was a Tsuruchi who didn't subscribe to the supremacy of the yumi.*\n\n*Taking in the hall, a novelty to the grizzled veteran more accustomed to the provincial halls of Wasp lords and notable samurai, Tsuruchi couldn't help but appreciate his ironic turn of fate. From a pawn in courtly games back home to an undoubted pawn in the games of nobles here in Scorpion territory, it seemed like his lot never changed. Politely thanking Yuji-san for the admittance, Ichiro made his way inside of the occupied room. Eyeing the awaiting Magistrate, he began the obsequies pageantry of his station; the series of bows and deeper bows, greetings and gift giving... The tedium of necessity and societal expectations.*\n\n\"Magistrate Moshi-sama. I thank you for your hospitality. I am Tsuruchi Ichiro. I would like to give you this small bauble obtained on my way from the eastern territories. I am here, as requested, to serve,\" *Finishing, he raised the gift with both hands in accompaniment with an appropriate bow.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana smiled warmly as the Samurai made his way in, greeting him with a bow. The magistrate certainly seemed the type that would stand out in a crowd between her bright orange kimono with green embroidery, shaved head, makeup, and scar that seemed to be an extension of an ever-present smile. \"Good day! I am Moshi Kana, the magistrate here. Welcome to our little piece of Ryoko Owari Toshi! I trust the journey here was agreeble?\"\n\nShe happily accepted the gift without the requisite refusals; a sign that the samurai need not expect the most formal of situations within the embassy. She admired the pin with wide eyes; it certainly wouldn't work as a hairpin, but it would be the *Perfect* Accessory for her outfit. \"I thank you graciously for the gift! Your eye for craftsmanship is clear. Please, have a seat, and make yourself comfortable. Oh! And travel papers, if you would.\"\n\nKana returned to kneeling at her desk, folding her hands in front of her. \"So, it is my understanding that Ambassdor Moshi Mai-sama requested the presence of capable bushi, and that you were sent here to fulfill that request. Now, I will say diplomatically, things have been going quite well for us so far. No major faux pas, no major conflicts... But that's not to say there haven't been any situations where it might help to have some extra protection, shall we say.\" She paused, and mused for a moment. \"Have you had experience working with Shugenja before?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Ichiro takes the offered seat with a polite bow and smile. Rummaging within the front folds of his clothing, he produces the requested documentation.*\n\n\"Thank you, Kana-sama. I apologize for the mistake. It's always good to hear we are doing well diplomatically. I hope to do my part to ensure that continues.\"\n \n*Settling back into the offered cushion, Ichiro gives a reflective pause as the memories of liquid earth beneath his feet at Ashinagabachi and eye-opening sights of the Shugenja storm rider aboard ship come racing back.*\n\n\"Some. Never directly. I served complimentary to their efforts during recent political misunderstandings but never amongst them if that helps paint the picture some.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana raised an eyebrow. While she was fairly relaxed with protocol, she wasn't certain how comfortable she was with someone she had just met using her given name. Still, she had certainly made that mistake before, and it would be hypocritical to be harsh with him. Not to mention unproductive given that he had just arrived to the city.\n\n\"Ah! Well, that is somewhat of what we are thinking. We actually have a good few Shugenja amongst us, myself included, as well as one who has recently arrived, to my understanding. Now, many of us are capable of handling ourselves, it's true. Once you meet the ambassador, you'll know exactly what I mean,\" She added, chuckling softly. \"That said, it usually is not the best optics for one blessed by the Kami to handle more difficult situations directly. Even if it *Is* Deserved in some cases...\"\n\nKana sat up a bit straighter. \"My apologies. I was about to start rambling. I suppose it will be best to give you an overview of our effort. Currently, we've been working towards an alliance with the Unicorn, and attempting to extend our influence in the docks and merchant's quarter. The more of a foothold we have in such an area, the more difficult it becomes for us to be overlooked as just some oversized minor clan in the city. Of course, this comes with pushback, from two main sources. First are the firemen gangs that are wish to keep their \"Cut\" From the businesses there, so to speak, and the Otter Clan, a minor clan who wish to gain the same foothold to compete with us.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "\"Any suggested courses of action I can support, Moshi-sama? I have had some experience with more of the... Less appealing... Side of similar discussions with such reputable organizations. From what I've experienced entering and dealing with the residents, it surprises me the sort have found a roost in such a splendid city amongst such hospitable surroundings.\" \n\n*Bowing slightly, he allowed a wry little smile to cross his face, hopefully bringing home the implied sarcasm.*\n\n\"Either way, I am at the clan's disposal. As for the Otter clan, I know very little about them outside of them having similar interests.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana tried and failed to suppress a snicker at his comments. \"Ah, I see you have already become well acquainted with the nature of this fair city, Tsuruchi-san! Unfortunately, you are correct, and some of these dogs have found a way to thrive in our fair, just city.\" Her smile soon fell, though. \"There is one group we are looking into discussing... Some sort of arrangement with,\" She began, though it was clear she was not thrilled with that course of action, \"And another, Strong Arm, who are violent to the point they will even attempt to slay Samurai. Yoritomo Takeya-san is one of our samurai looking into the matter who may be able to offer further insight.\"\n\n\"As for the Otter clan, you would not be alone there. I myself knew very little of them until they disrupted an attempt to collect pay for our services from some merchants. At this point, I would recommend being wary, but not overly frightened of them. Keep an eye peeled for any unusual mons. They are a minor clan, which means we can do nothing unless they initiate hostilities, but they're still an issue we need to address if we're to achieve our goals at the docks.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "\"Understood, Moshi-sama. I will connect with Yoritomo-sama on the matter of unfortunate disrespect and violence done to our clansmen. As to the minor being brazen enough to interrupt a transaction for service, that can be addressed shortly.\"\n\n*Ichiro shifted to a more comfortable position on the cushion and let the quiet hang a second.*\n\n\"If I may inquire, Moshi-sama, as to whom you would want me to report to concerning anything I may find out in the course of my work about town that may be of value in any dealings with the other clans?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, thankfully there's not been any direct violence from the firemen gangs to our clan. It is more that Yoritomo-san has been on the ground, and would be the ideal person to speak to in his attempts to ensure that *Does not* Happen.\" She smiled brightly. \"As for the Otter... It sounds as though you have an idea? If so, I would love to hear it! I may be a magistrate, but I certainly don't believe in discarding input from the people I work with.\"\n\nKana waited a bit in the quiet herself. This new Samurai struck her as very professional and eager to get to work. Though it raised questions as to the kind of person he was outside of his duties...\n\n\"Absolutely, Tsuruchi-san. If you discover anything that would be of interest to know, please don't hesitate to share it! Knowledge is power in a city where deceit is often the currency.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "Nodding along politely, Ichiro readjusted his haori as not to ruin it inadvertently as he only had the one. \n\n\"I can't say I have a fully formulated plan for the Otter but I have the bare bones of one forming, yes. We can not, by Devine decree, instigate any grievance with our erstwhile neighbors but we can work to ensure they are brought to understand our position less formally at less formal meeting places. I would not sully your hall with such specifics, if that is acceptable with the Magistrate-sama.\"\n\n*He paused as the cloud of possible avenues of approach solidified in his mind and began anew,* \"Ironically, the firemen may be a solution to the Otter issue but I dare not be presumptuous without speaking to Yoritomo-sama first. I will do as requested and be of more service once I have the lay of the land. The map is not the territory, and I am just newly acquainted with the just and honorable of the city.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana nodded. \"I think I understand what you're getting at here. Just a word of caution if we're going to head that way, though. In my encounter with them, one of them stood her ground against three Samurai, including myself, and even when their support arrived, only one of them had steel and yet they stood their ground. I fear they won't be intimidated easily. That said, two of our samurai are collecting some further information on the clan. One of our men has disappeared under mysterious circumstances, and if they're involved, we may yet have some more options open up to us.\"\n\nShe then raised an eyebrow at the talk of using the firemen. She still loathed the idea of having anything to do with them beyond putting them to the blade, but if they were to compete more \"Directly\" With the Otter, this certainly wasn't a bad idea. \"Of course! He's a good fellow, and has already found a good few spots to eat,\" She added with a chuckle.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*A look of surprise crosses Ichiro's face at the revelation of three losing to one and the prospect of decent food in a place seemingly more likely to poison you and take your belongings than make sure you're well fed.*\n\n\"That is useful information. Thank you for your candor on the situation, Magistrate-no-kimi.\" \n\n*A seated bow followed as Ichiro processed all he had learned. Firemen, Otter, agents of the Mantis already in play... All of it pieces to the puzzle of effecting change and hopeful increase in holdings here in this cesspool of a city. Grand as it may be in its splendid reds, it still more of a touch of green amongst the sake houses of street power and assuredly in the high halls of governmental power.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Of course, Tsuruchi-san. I would be very poor in my role if I were to simply say hello and then throw you to the noble, upstanding wolves of this fine city!\" She chuckled softly at her own joke. \"Truly, if there is anything else you wish to know, please ask. The only details I may be lacking in are in our new shugenja you may be working with. She's arrived at nearly the same time, and I've not yet had the chance to speak with her or introduce myself, for that matter. You've actually come at a most auspicious time for us, it seems!\"\n\nThe cheerful magistrate seemed to relax a bit at her seat. \"May I offer you some tea or sake, Tsuruchi-san? I'd get to know you a bit better, if that's agreeable.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Politely smiling in return at the joke, Ichiro pulls off a seated bow. *\n\n\"Thank you, Magistrate-sama. It would be an honor to share tea and talk. As to my charge, I look forward to being of any service I can be. I am, by way of your inquiry concerning my experience with those who speak with the Kami, assuming I will be protecting somebody who can do so. Am I incorrect at all? Admittedly, I have seen the most awe-inspiring feats accomplished by Shugenja. I am eager to be of service directly.\"\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "*Another one who's right down to business then...*\n\n\"That is the plan, yes. There's many dangers in the city, and well... If you've seen the gift of a Shugenja in action, you know it can have a most significant impact. Of course, such impacts might be advisable to avoid in the city. There's been rumors of what's happened to some in the city who have been less than responsible with such a power. As such, it would be good to have someone who can help them avoid using using such unless absolutely necessary.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "\"Understood, Magistrate-sama. I will ensure I do my best. Not to be too forward but, how do you find the city? I will admit, while I haven't seen much of it, it is vastly different than most cities I've seen.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well... You know of the reputation the city has, of course, all jesting aside. In many ways, it does live up to its reputation. The firemen gangs are the least of the problems here. The city's own guard will often request 'contributions' for services,\" She explained, putting just enough emphasis on the word contributions to let Ichiro know exactly what she meant. \"Not to mention the competition amongst other clans for the city makes trust a very dangerous game.\"\n\nShe leaned back a bit, genuinely smiling as the subject shifted. \"That said, there are bright spots. The food and confections here are simply without compare. Having presences from throughout Rokugan lets us enjoy food and cuisine we only ever imagined. The lands outside the city are beautfiful, and I do like to go out for my prayers at times. There are also good, honorable people here as well. I've been privileged to meet people who I would now consider good friends. If you ever wish to know the city better, you should look for Shinjo Temujin-ku - SAN! Shinjo Temujin-san! If you ever wish for a tour!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Ichiro politely nods along with the conversation- probably more of a habit that a polite gesture at this point in his life- and seems to file everything said about upstairs for future reference. Corrupt-what a surprise considering the host clan-guardsmen, firemen, a Shinjo Temujin, the food and confections. All of it was a point of logic to use later to gain something in his work. You didn't hunt man for fifteen years and not learn to study.* \n\n\"I will make it a point to seek Shinjo-sama out at first opportunity after Yoritomo-san. Thank you, Magistrate-sama. My jest likewise aside, I humbly thank you for the opportunity to be of service in this famed city.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, while I appreciate the thanks, you can thank our ambassador, Moshi Mai-sama. If you've not had the chance to meet her yet, you are in for a treat.\" She smiled. \"Have you decided where you'll be staying just yet?\" She asked, rising from her seat. \"Many do prefer having an inn room, and there's a number of them, but we do have private quarters here at the embassy as well.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "\"Due to the nature of my usual work, I would look for accommodations outside of the protected grounds of an embassy but since I have yet to be acquainted with my charge, I would wait and see before assuming I know which would be more beneficial.\" *Ichiro pondered a bit, the Hampshire wheels grinding in his head as he weighed the pros and cons.* \"Both could be beneficial, depending on the nature of the city, the work, etc.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Hmmm...\" Kana though for a moment, her brow wrinkling slightly. \"Well, you don't have to commit. If an inn is usually how you go, you can always change your mind later if you like! Our own ambassador stayed on her ship for some time before deciding to reside at the embassy. In the mean time, is there aught else you want to know? Is there anything you'd like to know about me or some of the other Mantis that are stationed here?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Ichiro momentarily looked ill at ease. He shifted slightly in his seat to his knees and executed a slight bow.*\n\n*\"Now or never ask again, old man.\"*\n\n\"Magistrate-sama, I ask after those of my family in the city. Are we... Well represented? If I can inquire as to where to find them and, perhaps, a given match maker for one as low as I?\"\n\n*\"There it is. An old man admitting the war drums of time beat for everyone under Amaterasu's grace.\"*\n\n\"If I am not being too forward, please also tell me of yourself. I realize I may be out of decorum with my previous requests.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"OH!\" She looked a bit surprised by the comment. \"I, um... Well there is one other Tsuruchi present with us at this time. I've not had much of a time to meet with him, but he will actually be competing in our hand to hand tournament in just a few days' time. Should we meet in the semifinals, I look forward to a rousing, good contest from what I have heard of him!\" She grinned.\n\n\"As for a match, well... Apparently there have been a number of requests for such. Including a Dragon who has been looking for her sister's betrothed, which could be interesting! There is um... Nevermind!\" Kana stopped herself, thinking better of being *Too* Indulgent of her fantasies of better clan relations. \"One of our Kitsunes is attending dinner at a matchmaker's, so there is one within the city.\"\n\n\"Well, as for myself, what is it you would wish to know, Tsuruchi-san?\" She asked, seemingly oblivious to any potential faux pas that might have existed.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Ichiro shifts in his kneeling position, clearly uncomfortable in some way.*\n\n\"Whatever you would like to discuss about yourself. I would greatly like to get to know those whom I serve to be of better service. We are, unfortunately, few compared to our counterparts. Anything I can garner about those bearing the green, will inevitably make me better at my duties.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh! Well, of course then!\" She smiled warmly. \"Well, I've been in Ryoko Owari Toshi for the better part of the spring by this point. As I've mentioned, I've found some solace here with the food; there really is nothing quite like it! I dare say it might be a little bit of a weakness of mine...\"\n\nShe trailed off, looking for a brief moment like there might be more she wanted to say, but ultimately electing to move on. \"Aside from that, I enjoy a good sumo match, and to read as well.\" She took a brief glance back to her scroll satchel. \"To tell you the truth, I don't remember a time when I wasn't carrying this thing around.\" \n\n\"I've also been working closely with the Unicorn when I have the opportunity of late. We've been looking to pursue closer relations with them, and for myself at least, I've found a fair bit on common. There's unfortunately a good many Samurai who overlook the importance of Compassion, or treat it as some secondary tenet... It's refreshing to see that there are other Samurai who place the same value upon it.\"\n\n\"Oh! But I'm going on a bit, aren't I?\" She chuckled. \"What about yourself, Tsuruchi-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Ichiro gives a small shake of his head and brings a hand up after nodding along.*\n\n\"No, Magistrate-sama. All of it is pertinent and applicable. The more I know about our clanmates, regardless of station, the better I can be of service. I appreciate the information.\"\n\n*The memory of how little Compassion mattered at Kyuden Asinagabachi came flooding back momentarily. Ichiro lost his attention for a second and seemed to swim back from the deep to the present conversation.*\n\n\"We could all use more Compassion in what we do, yes... As for me, I hunted afield after we-well, seemingly the rest of us, anyway- took to the yumi over the sword. I found it prudent considering the climate after Asinagabachi. I chose to honor my father when it was impolitic, I guess. I stayed afield for more summers than I care to admit.\"\n\n*Ichiro pauses a second, a look of consideration appearing and fading before he continues.*\n\n\"The truth of it is, I watched our family, and subsequent clan, like a visiting relative watches a niece or nephew grow in small glimpses. The changes, both good and ill, are drastic when you see them again and you don't lose the forest for sight of the trees. The seasons changed and so did our people at home. It became abundantly clear one day that I had done my duty but *Not* Done my duty. I had become an old man without a match or any real home besides a worn tent. One of the original few still from before Asinagabachi without an heir and family but not hated at home finally, so I was given leave for new duties. I had hunted those the Empire needed for inquiry long enough apparently. It was nice, finally, to be amongst our people wearing a daisho and only receiving the occasional glare versus what I had become accustomed to. The problem was, I didn't recognize the faces anymore. A stranger amongst my own clan. The ones I did recognize had somehow become old and others it is best not to speak of.\"\n\n*Ichiro seems to trail off again.*\n\n\"Either way, here I am.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana listened carefully to the man's story, her gaze sympathetic as she took in all of the details. She leaned forward at her desk, propping her head in one of her hands. \"It seems you've seen a good many years pass, for better or worse, Tsuruchi-san. Also that you've seen your share of sacrifice in that time. To not consider betrothal or inheritance, *Especially* In our clan... I pray that the heavens see such devotion and honor it accordingly in the next life,\" She replied with a smile. \n\n\"Hold on to such virtues when you're here. In a land where virtue is as hard to come by as... Um...\" She paused for a moment. \"Forgive me, I cannot quite think of the right analogy. Regardless though! It is precious, and somnething that should be preserved. When there's much in your path attempting to steer you in the wrong direction, it will help you stay on track!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Ichiro bows deeply, his forehead to the floor and then up again.* \n\n\"Thank you for listening, Magistrate-sama. I am embarrassed I droned on so long. Quite uncharacteristic, I assure you.\" \n\n*Another nervous deep bow follows.*\n\n\"Is there a duty you wish me to perform or duty to be discussed, Magistrate-sama? If only for me to save even a little face after such a diatribe, please.\" \n\n*A small smile materializes as he finishes to emphasize the point.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Please, nothing you've said is anything you need to apologize for. You listened to me ramble, after all, and it is important for us to know the others of the clan, yes?\" She smiled warmly, gesturing for him to sit up. \"You need not prostrate yourself. But, if you're absolutely insistent on doing something... Perhaps pour us both a cup of sake from that bottle on the shelf?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*The smile stays as he bows to the Magistrate's open wisdom.* \n\n\"It is as you say, Magistrate-sama.\"\n\n*Rising to procure the sake, Ichiro takes his cushion again and begins pouring for the Magistrate and then himself.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana flashed him a toothy grin, taking a moment to raise her glass. \"Well, Tsuruchi-san, a toast to new meetings, a new Mantis, and hopefully new adventures in Ryoko Owari Toshi! May Lady Sun see fit to ensure your stay here is an auspicious one. Kanpai!\"\n\nWith that she threw her head back and downed the cup in a single drink, setting it back down on her desk. Even though it had only been a single drink, she still appeared unaffected by the sake.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "oksoso",
"message": "*Raising his cup in a salute to the Magistrate's hospitality, Ichiro mimics the toast.*\n\n\"Kanpai!\"\n\n*Likewise, Ichiro throws back the first round.*\n\n\"May we both be worthy of Fortunes' favor.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 150.5 | 5,618 |
427.133333 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Today was a vastly different approach from Yutos usual meetings. Preferring to do things in a more friendly informal setting, it was now the opposite, something few deemed he wasn't good at. Though a face of confidence rested on the Scorpion, not that it could be seen under the mask. Usually the Magistrate wore a black half mask resembling a wolf's mouth, but it seemed that cover up was nowhere to be found. Boasting much more shine than the old, this current mask resembled more of an ape. It was gold with black and red accents, with sharp teeth that curved down and upward. It was a vicious looking mask but more ornate than the last one he owned, its most notable feature was the third eye between the two. To Yuto this was him assuming a new and more appropriate identity, as this mask covered the entirety of his face. \n\nHaving chosen a day with exceptionally good weather, the Magistrate made their way to the Mantis embassy alone. In his hand was one small box and on top an even smaller container, balanced perfectly in the palm of the man's big palm. Rokugo walked with a certain stride, known to wear one's heart on their shoulders, he did so proudly. Usually he slouched but today he stood straight. \n\nGiving a simple nod to the guards, he presented his chop, a personal stamp with his name, \"I'm here to see the Ambassador Moshi Mai-sama, this letter covers the details of my visit, if you wish to give it to her.\" Handing the guard his letter, he'd wait patiently outside until being instructed further. Depending on if word spread quickly, his visit may have been expected, of course he wouldn't assume. As the Magistrate waited the fellow simply enjoyed his time under the sun, appreciating the blessed weather. \n\nThere was a moment he looked down at his clothing, making sure he was tidy and presentable. Yuto was getting used to wearing more formal and courtier attire, spending less time with tea in his hand rather than a sword.\n\nWearing a blush kimono with the Bayushi mon in blue over the left side of his chest. He wore a midnight black hakama, holding it up with a teal obi. Over this attire was a cherry red Haori, with the mon of the Scorpion in black on its upper back. While usually his hair fell down to his shoulders and further below, the Magistrate had it slicked into a topknot behind his head. He looked like a new man completely, wearing different attire, a new mask, if it weren't for his distinguished build they might not have believed he was Rokugo Yuto. The truth being he was desperate to prove one could conduct themselves properly in a formal situation. Who did the Junshin have to prove this to? \n\nThe short and long answer: **Himself** \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Mama Mai, there's a Scorpion at the door.\" \n\nGozu reported in to the ambassador, who was outside in the gardens. She was squatting down over a little wooden perimeter, where a massive centipede skittered and patrolled the area. Mai seemed to be enjoying the antics of the creature, watching it crawl up the walls, only for the woman to gently nudge it back into box. \"Oh? Which one?\" \n\n\"Rokugo Yuto-sama,\" Gozu said, \"He provided a note.\" Mai took it, and looked it over. Her smile dampered a bit. \"I thought I told that Junichi fool that I wasn't interested in being involved in this nonsense... Fine, let him in, I'll take him here in the garden.\"\n\n\"Shall I prepare some tea?\"\n\n\"Fortunes no! Have you tasted your tea? Have Maki do it, Gozu-san. And make sure there's enough for you and her, too.\" Gozu nodded, and headed off to fetch Yuto. \n\nWhen Yuto was brought out and announced, Mai was still relaxing over her little centipede pit, and gave a respectful nod to the Scorpion Magistrate. \"Well, well, if it isn't Rokugo Yuto-san. I was wondering when the Scorpion were going to come around to pester me.\" Mai flicked her centipede over onto its back, which quickly wrapped around her arm and threatened to poke her with its venom, but ultimately chittered and wriggled about. \n\"This is Muku-chan, by the way, the pet I told you about. She'd say hi, but she's much too hungry. I hope you don't mind if I feed her while we get this business sorted?\" \n\nMai motioned to a little wooden cage, where a plump rat squeeked nervously. \n\n\"Now, while tea is prepared, let's get this going. What can I do for you, Rokguo-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Having been summoned into the embassy, he followed behind the servant leading him to the Ambassador. A smile hidden under the mask as Yuto laid eyes upon the woman, giving a deep bow as they greeted one another. Upon looking back up, he took notice of the centipede as one's face filled with an ecstatic expression. If it weren't for the mask he'd have been caught dumbfounded, perhaps there was some use to it. \n\n\"I'd have come to pester you sooner my lady but I've been tied up in other affairs. Gladdens me to see you're in good health since we last met, and I must say. Being in the presence of an exotic creature is an honor, it's not everyday you see such a spectacle. Oh and Muku-chan looks splendid as well.\" \n\nA little joking compliment to set the tone, he wasn't so much sure if Mai was in bright spirits to see him. The last time they spoke the alliance was still in order, but now it had been done away with. Hopefully he'd be able to get the desired results from this meeting. Nodding his head at her question of feeding her pet, Yuto would have no issues. The man was known for his patience after all. \n\n\"Before I begin my pestering, I'm determined to give you something. If you recall the last time we spoke I offered my services as Magistrate to you and your clan. Yet I failed to truly display my sincerity in those words.\" \n\nStepping forward but making sure to keep a comfortable distance, he took hold of the smaller wooden container. Setting the slightly bigger one down by his feet, he'd bow in offering it. The box he offered was small enough to be held in the palm of one's hand and easily slid open from the top. \n\n\"While the Scorpion and Mantis are not formally joined in union, it does not disclose the promise I made to you Moshi-sama. Therefore I wish to give something of extraordinary value to me.\"\n\nWhen she opened the small box, she'd have seen the Rokugos former veil. His dark red almost black half wolf mouth mask, a symbol of his identity.\n\nCloser inspection of such a relic one would have seen the aging and wear on the item. This was no replica or fake, it was the mask Yuto carried for years. It'd answer the question as to why he wore another mask in the first place. Mai would have recognized the artifact from their recent encounters, for him to give the mantis such a thing meant a great deal. \n\n\"It means a great deal to me, I didn't receive such a thing until my Father truly accepted me as his son. That and I must say it was much more comfortable to wear than this one.\" \n\nLifting the mask he currently wore up above his head, Yuto wore a soft smile as he hoped the Ambassador would accept the gift. There was a custom to deny and offer three times, but he felt this was an exception to such a tradition. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"And Muku- Oh! Bayushi no Rokugo-san, you dog!\" Mai chuckled, quite caught off guard by the flirtation. She was used to _doling it out,_ but recieving it? Not so much. \"You're not going to flatter me into whatever you want, you know. But, do keep trying!\" She chuckled once more, and listened in to what he wished to say. \n\nYuto spoke of sincerity in his words, and for a moment, Mai had a sinking feeling. She wasn't sure what he was getting to, less so when he produced the little box for her to take. \"What is...\" She took the box in hand, curiosity getting the better of etiquette. \n\nAnd then, it was revealed. A mask. _His_ mask. If his story was to be believed, the first mask he received upon his gempukku. A dozen different worries and emotions hit the woman; she was no expert in the ways of the Scorpion, but... This was big, wasn't it? To hand over one's mask and such. She went to look up at him, and- \n\n-Lady Sun, he's showing his true face, too?? \n\nMai was conflicted, and her anxiety was running rampant. What did it mean? Was he trying to... Well, no, this couldn't be _that._ And if it was, it was a trap, surely. She was a widow, and a brute, and flirt and a killer and so many other things, surely this was not anything but a ruse. But what if it wasn't? What then? Should she decline, or would that be rude? Naturally it's a trick to show that goodwill was dismissed as a means to undercount the Mantis reputation, or to imply some sort of issue, or -what if this is a distraction? Junichi had been calm, but this could be a trick, she might be about to get her neck slit, or-\n\nMai exhaled, a shallow, shaky breath leaving her. \"Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto-san,\" She said softly, \"I... Do not know if I can accept this. If I am right, to give such a thing means... Well, it can mean a lot of things. I'm afraid I'm not sure if you're implying what I think..\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Unlike before this time Yuto was bolstering with confidence, almost unrecognizable! After lifting the mask, one's eyes never strayed from the ambassador, he was serious in this offering. It was a good sign to see he set the tone and pace of their conversation, it'd be much harder if the mantis were irritated by the scorpions presence. But her reactions only told him to dig more. \n\n\"When the Bayushi family adopted us Rokugo as their vassals, they let us inherit the Scorpion clan's many traditions. One of the more significant being the Mask we wear.\" \n\nAs he spoke the large samurai stepped closer. Placing a hand under her hand that held the box with his mask. A gentle and subtle touch, yet his eyes were unwavering from her. \n\n\"Upon our union of joining the clan, we were told of the great importance these Masks represented. They were our faces, identities, treasures... There was quite the long list but most importantly of all. Our lives.\" \n\nLowering his hand slowly, no longer supporting hers. Yuto wanted to express the true weight that was within Mai's hand. It was more than a mere mask, and it meant more than one could ever know. Now it was hers. \n\n\"Forgive me Moshi-sama, I've never been one to use implication, I'd rather speak plainly. Yet you've forced my hand, I've never been one to lack words, yet somehow in your presence they evade me.\" \n\nThe Magistrate wanted the Ambassador to know exactly how he felt, it was hard for a soft spoken man such as himself to say such things. Yet somehow a wave of satisfaction washed over him, knowing he chose to speak his truths instead of bottling them in. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai blushed. \n\nShe really made it a point of order to tell herself that she was fine on her own as a widow, and that she'd done her part, had her children, and anything else was unnecessary and purely for kicks. Even so, she was a hopeless romantic, and to get a mask from someone in such a way... It _was_ a romantic effort, wasn't it? \n\n\"You... Should really not waste such precious, beautiful gifts on an old widow like me.\" She was still blushing profusely, and she rubbed her neck, feeling horribly young and out of sorts. \"Surely there's someone far more deserving than the woman that spat in your ambassador's face and kicked your Clan to the curb, so to speak...\" Mai sighed, finally composing herself. \"...But, I won't refuse it. It's a very compassionate gift, Bayushi no Rokugo-san.\" She smiled, rather timidly for the usually imposing woman. \n\n\"But, you didn't come here solely to be sweet on me, I'm sure.\" She laughed, nervously -fortunes, was she still blushing? -and preoccupied herself with Muku-chan to keep foolish thoughts away. \"So, business. If you're here, I take it it's on magistrate business?\" Mai set the mask carefully back in its case, and got her own out to pull out the plump rat within. She tossed it into Muku's hunting ground, hoping the event would help relax her.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Now who was the one without confidence? He thought to himself, it seemed when flustered she questioned her own self worth. An odd thing for someone of high status, yet it made Moshi Mai all the more relatable and desirable. Having a slight frown when the Ambassador spoke of not wasting his gift, a smile and even a laugh came from the comment on spitting in his boss's face. \n\n\"Oh Moshi-sama! You must remember I'm merely a Rokugo, such sophisticated reasons about deserving or spitting in my Ambassador's face are not factors. We're much simpler than that, you see our history is rather short. But it is one we love repeating. Would you like to know what that is?\" \n\nAsking her, if she said yes he'd have stepped closer. Closer than he had before, his sway over to her was a smooth movement. Before she went and tended to her animal, he spoke gently yet with confidence. \n\n**\"Seeing what we want, and taking it..\"**\n\nAs he spoke, Yuto made sure to give his unwavering eye contact one more try, possessing a soft smile as he still had his face revealed. If he had been making an attempt to flirt this was certainly it. Though when she mentioned business, he purposely gestured a confused expression, until both eyes widened in realization. \n\n\"Magistrate business? Oh yes! The pestering, I had surely forgotten. There is something I would like to discuss with you, I take it you've read my letter?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "_'Steady, Mai. Don't act foolishly again with these Scorpion.'_ \n\nMai definitely felt special in the moment; when was the last time some man ever tried to woo her? And someone so young, too! It felt... Well, it had a lot of feelings with it. She wasn't going to be foolish, not this time around. And not when she was sure that the man needed something from her. \n\nSo, even as she blushed and tucked some loose strands behind her ear, she tried to remember that she was the Ambassador of the Mantis Clan, who broke off their alliance with the clan of Yuto. \n\n\"Yes, I've read your letter,\" She replied, casually. \"I'm sure there's a lot going on with your Clan at the moment. I spoke to that Soshi Miyoko, I believe her name was. Part of the apology tour, no doubt.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "It was a surprise to hear Soshi Miyoko had visited the embassy, on an apology tour? Would have been nice if a certain someone made him aware of such a thing transpiring, it might have given him more insight on conducting himself. Nevertheless, Yuto was plain and straightforward when it came to the business. \n\n\"I wasn't made aware of an apology tour, I take it they apologized for the past wrongdoings against your clan no? I'd hope so.\" \n\nThe Rokugo had made his own effort in apologizing to the Ambassador himself, while the encounter sparked a connection towards her, the mantis was still lost. Yuto couldn't tell where the good and bad were at on that scale, but one shook the thought away. \n\n\"I've come to collect a statement from you about the allegations put on Bayushi Kaori. Do you mind if we sit down while I pester you for the details?\" \n\nHe said the last part sarcastically, hoping their banter could keep up the entertainment and not run the Ambassadors patience out. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"A statement, hm?\" \n\nMoshi Mai sighed, and rested her head in the palm of her hand, looking down at the soon-coming attack. \"I could've sworn that I told Shosuro Junichi that I had no interest in pursuing anything further against Bayushi Kaori. No, I _did_ say that.\" She looked up with her eyes, and ushered for Yuto to watch. \n\n\"I never had any intention to get the young woman in any trouble,\" She said. \"I am _furious_ at how she interpreted my agreement to test my ronin, but I don't wish death on her. Maybe, a year ago I would've, but this damned city is making my soft- no, cancel that. More that it's made my edge a lot more fine and precise.\" \n\nBelow, the rat squeaked and tried to scramble away, making it to one of the walls. Mai thumped it in the head with a flick of her finger, forcing it back down. \"Bayushi Kaori broke into the embassy. I have a means to watch the embassy, thanks to the Kami, so I spotted her in my room, going through my things. I had tea with her, at which time she confronted me about what the Mantis intend to do for the Scorpion. Bayushi-san then spoke of a few things: One was me tracking down gaijin pepper for her, so she could plant evidence on the Unicorn whilst raiding that establishment. I agreed, but that was a lie. She also spoke of doing whatever it takes for her clan. I don't remember all the words verbatim, but seeing as how she was asking me procure forbidden goods and subterfuge against the Unicorn, who's to say what she was capable of? \n\n\"I'm sure she's already spoken about the little nighttime romp we had.\" Mai shrugged her shoulders. \"What can I say? I like bold men and women, and breaking into my home is very, _very_ bold. We did what adults do, and I'll tell you now, I did it with no shame; I am a widow, and I bore two heirs. I have nothing to be ashamed about. It was in the afterglow she asked about testing my ronin, Chiyoko-san. I agreed, and it is not wise of me to allow such a vague statement. I assumed my ronin's mettle would be test. Only after when my crying daughter is back home do I discover the truth of the matter. Kaori staged an attack against my daughter, to test my ronin. It's nice to know my ronin would give her life for my daughter...\"\n\n_'Hm. Chiyoko __did__ give her life for my daughter... Maybe I should...'_ \n\n\"...But if not for the fact she carried no weapons, my ronin could have killed her there in the garden. Foolish, very foolish.\" \n\nMai sighed, rubbing her head. \"But, that's all there is to it, Bayushi no Rokugo-san. If you need more details, go right ahead and ask, but as I noted before, I don't care what's done with Bayushi Kaori. If I wanted retribution, I'd snap her little neck with my bare hands, or informed the Emerald Magistrate and make a whole scene out of it. I meant it when I told your ambassador that I was breaking the alliance and leaving with no ill intent. So, it _does_ confuse me why your Clan has such a clean, free break, and you're still putting on all this show. I haven't told a soul about the inner workings of our dealings, so... Why all this? Unless you're just trying to catch me in something you can blame on the Mantis, hm?\" \n\nThe shugenja smirked, crossing her arms. \"Can't say I could blame you; The way you Scorpion have blundered almost every operation you've tackled in the city -except for the one _I_ ran, ironically enough- you could certainly use a win, hm!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "There was a lot to unpack, but his suspicions were proven true. The ambassador had no interest in pursuing charges with the Bayushi, which made sense seeing as the orders had come from Junichi. If all the charges were true then Kaori would have been long served justice, or dead, which Mai then confirmed as well. Should he do it? No, he came here to seek Justice, but at this point what path was justice on? There were two crossroads, going in completely different directions, could this have been it? A mix of feelings overcame the Magistrate, a visible blush coming over his face while the Mantis exploded about the story. It was a good thing he wore a lot of layers today... She was indeed an older woman but flustered the young man like no other. \n\n\"Thank you Moshi-sama, you've brought some things to light I had suspicions of. I was going to ask why this case was coming from Soshi Junichi and not you, that man is...\" \n\nHe held his tongue. Yet the rest of the words almost slipped, having self control he would continue. Still stuck on what he should do. At that moment he decided. \n\n\"It is not my wish to see the afflictions against you and your clan to be taken advantage of for someone else's Plot. Seems not one but two Scorpions in power have left you in the dark. Even me, I suppose he believes I'm a great fool thinking I would blindly exert his will...\" \n\nThere was another pause, Yuto now looking down with a face of disappointment and uncertainty. Before there was a mix of emotions, but now? Determination. His eyes rose once more to the Ambassador before him, regaining the confidence that momentarily left him. Stepping forward, he would speak once more. \n\n\"If he were wise, he'd have collected his statement from you and proceeded with the trial. Instead here we are, pawning around in his game even though right now We have all the power in how things will proceed.\" \n\nHe smiled towards her.\n\n\"You are right Moshi-sama. The scorpion have blundered every effort, our one win is in truth credited to you. So I ask, would you like to win again?\" \n\nHe had a small box with him, upon opening it there was parchment along with a pen and quill to write down the woman's statement. It was to have it on hand at the trial, and for documentation. This was a golden opportunity for them. \n\n\"I wish not to see Bayushi Kaori punished if justice is not served by those she offended. From my understanding, neither do you. Seeing as your statement is critical for the progression of the trial, I doubt Soshi-sama would be able to do anything about what you have to say. I'll gladly write down what you wish to convey in your statement.\" \n\nHe was implying a lot and doing so quite obviously. Hoping the mantis would agree and follow along in doing so, putting this case and trial behind them was best for everyone. \n\n\"Forgive me if I am not **Bold** Enough..\" \n\nHe said in a sarcastic tone. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Ah, so _there's_ the actual favor, finally.\" Mai looked over at Yuto, looking rather smug as she took the paper. \"You want to protect your dear Kaori-san. That's rather admirable, in a way. Going as far as to try and woo a woman for another woman is something right out of a pillow book, you know.\" The shugenja took up the parchment, and thought it over. \"I hope you realize that I might put myself in some hot water over all of this, don't you? I hardly like the idea of tarnishing my own rep over someone else's blunder. While I can plead the case that I have done nothing dishonorable, my enemies will eat up at the thought of a woman my age fooling about with young maidens and such nonsense.\"\n\nMai started to write something, all the same. She hollered for her servants to fetch her chop as she worked, until she had the following: \n\n``` I, Moshi Mai of the Mantis Clan, Ambassador of the Mantis Embassy in Ryoko Owari Toshi, and High Daughter of Amaterasu, forgive and absolve Bayushi Kaori of the Scorpion Clan of any slight or wrongdoing compelled at myself and my Clan. I refuse to testify against her for these infractions, as Amaterasu and the Kami teach, Compassion is a tenet of Bushido. ``` \n\n\"There. I won't be made a liar in whatever court she finds herself in, but seen as one that forgives others? That works for me. It also gives you the means to get your precious Ri-chan off the hook, as all of my complaints were slights against me, one way or another. Including that gaijin powder nonsense.\" \n\nShe signed it with her chop, and went to hand it over, but pulled it away at the last second. \n\n\"I do hope it goes without saying, but if the Scorpion Clan gets me involved in an such nonsense again, or if certain people try to sneak back into the Embassy again, I'll strike them down with the fury of Osano Wo and have them burnt alive in the cleansing light of Lady Sun... Right? As much as seeing your handsome face has been nice, I'm awfully tired of cleaning up Scorpion messes.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Mais words only worsened the blow Yuto was already feeling, in a way he had sunk very low, even though his intentions were noble there was doing the wrong thing for the right reasons. A frown sat upon his lips, partially looking down. He succeeded in getting the ambassador to write the letter, but something felt wrong inside of him, Yuto confessed. \n\n\"I shouldn't have asked you to do that. I'm in no position to request such a thing, and yet you did it anyway. The debt will be paid.\" \n\nExhaling a breath, he'd have taken the note after her warning was issued, Mai was correct to do so. One couldn't blame her for ending things off with their clan, he'd have done the same. All one could wish for was they'd use his previously offered allegiance, wanting to provide service to their clan. While wooing the woman was for self indulgences, he truly meant what he said. \n\n\"Despite my upbringing and installment into the clan, I held onto Truth and Honor. Others whispered and insulted me for being narrow minded and gullible because of it, yet I took no shame in my nature.\" \n\nHe continued, still holding the letter in front of him. Yuto had much to say. \n\n\"I know whether or not you see me as another filthy liar now or if you always did. To put it plain, I don't know what I'm becoming or if I've already become it. The values I pride myself in were used against me to serve a Plot rather than serving Justice, so I shed them. But know that Mask, the part of me I gave you, the real me...\"\n\nHe paused once more, then continued. \n\n\"Belongs only to you now. My advances weren't for another woman's sake, I only have one heart after all.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "This Yuto... He was something else. She couldn't trust him, not entirely, but she could say he was at least _trying_ to be pure of heart. It was hard to say if it was genuine or not; on one hand, things were heartfelt and romantic, and on the other, it felt like another ploy, another political step. \n\n\"You owe me nothing, Bayushi no Rokugo-san.\" Mai spoke flatly, but she had a small smile, all the same. \"Just like with Bayushi Kaori, I'm not holding any grudges. Just do one thing for me, Yuto-san.\" She moved in closer to him, so she could whisper in his ear. \n\n\"Never come back here for such a thing again. You've tried my affections to the limit. Test me further, and I will _break_ you.\" Mai gave the samurai a small kiss on the cheek before pulling away. \"The next time you show your face, there'd better not be a single mention of this nonsense again. Understood?\" \n\nIt was as Mai said. The _next_ time. There could be one. \n\n\"I'm not playing around, either. I'll toss out that lovely mask if you do.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Yuto wasn't the most intelligent nor did he pretend to be. What came from Mai was a rather mixed signal in his eyes, though his face continued to be stoic. She relieved him of the burdens of debt, making the mantis that much more admirable, yet the threat was something else. Before he could respond with some stupid quip she kissed the scorpion on the cheek, bringing a blush to the Junshins face. A surprise but not an unwelcome one, the Samurai wasn't expecting to get that far. As a matter of fact death was more expected than a kiss! \n\n\"You've become that much more admirable Moshi-sama. Even without such debts my services are still offered to you, with everything I've needed to give you and get I'll be on my way.\" \n\nThe man bowed, a smile never leaving his lips. Turning away he would have looked back before officially taking his leave, sliding his full mask back over himself as he spoke. \n\n\"Do what you will with the Mask. It's yours now. Though if I were to make a recommendation. **Wear it**, you'll be shocked by how much stronger you'll feel..\" \n\n|| Unless you want to keep going, that's Scene! Tysm I enjoyed it and look forward to our next one!"
}
] | 380 | 6,407 |
280.357143 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "It was time to meet with the Mantis, Miyoko imagined she may get a cold reception, but it was best to make an introduction still. She'd appear in her red kimono with splashes of pink flowers with black trim, her hair was up in two large buns, tied with red ribbons trimmed with gold, and which had black scorpions embroidered in various threat poses in a repeating pattern, and her face was flanked by a bit of her hair coming down and gently curling around the edges of her face across her cheeks.\n\nEither way, it was her job as a diplomat to try her best to maintain cordial relations at least for herself. Her hands had felt tied since her arrival in Ryoko Owari Toshi, and the heavy burden weighed on her while she waited patiently for her meeting, trying not to sulk. She was a little drained from the state of affairs. At least the weather had been pleasant this spring."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The Mantis Embass was ultimately no different than before Moshi Mai broke off the alliance with the Scorpion. Courage was a big tenet of Bushido for the Mantis, so the servants, guards, and other aides showed no signs of dismay or disarray at the bold move of thier ambassador. All that really changed was the cushions; instead of red for the guests, she opted for more Mantis green. \n\nMoshi Mai was in high spirits, too, focusing solely on her own work and the many dealings she was trying to complete. So far, she was amassing a tidy list of prospects, and was expecting an audience with some enterprising merchants looking to expand or lay down new foundations. \n\nWas she _wasn't_ expecting, was a Scorpion. \n\nNor were the servants. Junko spotted the lone woman, and hurried over. Alliance or not, a Samurai was a Samurai. \"Greetings there, Scorpion-sama,\" She said, being polite but no longer 'putting on airs' as she used to do, \"I'm sorry, but I wasn't aware of any visitors from the Scorpion Clan.\" She looked far too weathered to be a normal estate servant, with the scar across the face and the rough, callused hands, and the hair cut short for practicality instead of style, but she wore the robes of a head servant, all the same. \"Were you wishing to see Moshi Mai-sama?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Soshi Miyoko gave a courteous bow, \"Yes, Mantis-San. I was hoping to request an audience as well as make proper introductions to the Mantis. Could you forward my request to Moshi Mai-Sama?\" Miyoko offered a polite smile, \"I hope your day is going well today, may I ask your name, Mantis-San? I am Soshi Miyoko.\" This connection was probably the most important for Miyoko to maintain for her personal affairs. \"Please don't feel pressed by my request, I wouldn't wish to make you feel pushed, and if Moshi Mai-Sama refuses my request for an audience I will not linger and cause you any trouble.\" Her eyes were soft as she regarded the servant, mindful of her words and potential influence. Things were delicate here."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Now, Junko was not used to a lot of politeness on the regular. Her people were ragtag, including her captain-turn-ambassador. Honestly, she was more used to being treated like a filthy pirate. \n\nSo, suffice it to say, she wasn't expecting the very pleasant responses. Her guess was that this Soshi Miyoko lady _really_ needed to see Moshi Mai. But, all the same, it was a nice change of pace. \"Junko,\" She said, bowing again, \"Usually _Kōhanchō_ Junko, but Junko is the more common, Soshi-sama.\" She stood upright, and brushed away the preemptive apologies. \"No, no, it should be fine. Allow me to escort you to the sitting room.\" She would do just that, taking the woman to a comfy, standard room, with cushions and a table, no other real adornments but the sea serpent artwork... And a masterfully-crafted model ship in a crystal bottle. \n\nAfter a few minutes, the doors slid open, and Moshi Mai would step inside. She was wearing a more conservative burnt-orange kimono, in the style of her family colors, though she had the mantis mon included. Her hair was up, and she looked to be unadorned with much makeup and jewelry; indeed, she wasn't expecting to meet a Samurai. \n\n\"Well, I wasn't expecting to see a Scorpion around here so soon.\" Moshi Mai didn't look displeased, more curious. After introductions were finished, Mai would sit, and have Junko bring them tea. \"What kind of tea do you prefer, Soshi-san? Ask, and we probably have it.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "\"Thank you for your assistance, Kōhanchō Junko-San.\" The scorpion girl followed after Junko to the waiting area, where she admired the artwork of sea serpents in particular. She'd never gotten to much understand the Mantis, but knew that they were important to trade. She had a moment to collect her thoughts and steel her composure. \n\nWhen the doors slid open, it pulled Miyoko from her brief thoughtful reverie and she turned to greet the Mantis-Sama, offering a deeper bow to show respect. \"Moshi-Sama, it's nice to meet you. I recently returned to Ryoko Owari Toshi, and have been making proper introductions with each clan in turn.\"\n\nMiyoko started the dance of sincerity, \"I'm sure that you must have some of my favorite teas in your collection, but I couldn't impose like that, Moshi-Sama.\" As she spoke, the Soshi disarmed of her wakizashi, placing it on her right side and with the hilt towards herself.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai found this amount of patronizing, well, patronizing. It was clear that after making the move she did, either she'd have a lot of problems at her door, or she'd have some kinder faces coming out of the woodwork. It reminded her of when her husband died; all the sudden, cousins and 'old friends' and anyone else came out of the blue to win her favor. \n\nBut, this was different; she didn't _hate_ the Scorpion for doing this, as it was the proper thing to do. \n\n\"Gyokuro tea, Junko.\" The servant bowed and headed off to prepare it (or better yet, find someone that could do it better). Mai looked back to Soshi Miyoko, and after a second of sizing her up, opened up the dialogue proper. \"So. Back in town, as you said, Soshi-san. I'm sure you've heard the news about our two Clans, then. As you can see, it's not a move done with ill will at mind, since we're here and all.\""
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Miyoko shifted, caught off guard but ultimately fine to change focus and methods, \"Gyokuro tea is fine, though I must admit I do prefer Sencha myself, is it your favorite, Moshi-Sama? Yes, it's been an unfortunate return for me. I expect it's not a move you made lightly. I had been looking forward to learning more about the Mantis Clan on better terms until I heard the reality of the situation. I'd like to apologize that I lack the influence to prevent or properly mend what's been done, even if I had been here sooner. Either way, I hope you'll look past those issues and that you'll assess me by my own merits and conduct. I hope to be on friendly terms with the mantis even if my clan does not manage to be.\"\n\nThe scorpion tried to be a little more open, to see how it was received since courtliness had seemed shut down by Mai's reaction to the games of politeness. She couldn't help but admire how both she and Moshi Mai seemed exhausted with the scorpion clan at the moment. It almost made her want to play the game of an open hand and just sigh openly, release the pent up tension and speak plainly without games to the Ambassador, but that might reflect poorly on her and she didn't want to risk showing or sharing anything she ought not've. \n\n\"I have heard many of the Mantis deal in trade, bringing all manner of items into Ryoko Owari Toshi, and helping Ryoko owari send it's own out of the city, is that correct?\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai had an inkling of an idea that her dismissal of the \"Proper\" Ways of etiquette were not expected by the Soshi. All the same, she abstained from being outright hostile, even if her refusal for the 'no, I insist' song and dance was rude by court standards. \"Jasmine is my favorite,\" She expressed, \"But Gyokuro is pleasant enough for today. Too much of a good thing makes it lose its luster.\" \n\nOn the topic of the 'issues' and the 'unfortunate' turn of events, Mai didn't show any real disdain or anger about it. \"So, in other words, 'I didn't do any of this _myself,_ so don't judge me harshly?'\" The Ambassador smirked, but disarmed her own comment with a chuckle and a brushing away. \"I tease, I tease. As I told Soshi Junichi-san, I hold no ill will. Was I angry? Absolutely. But, the ending of the alliance was simple and peaceful, so there's hardly a reason for me to bully any Scorpion that comes through the door. Matter of fact, since you came through the front door instead of my _window,_ you find yourself in good standing already.\" \n\nMai relaxed her seating, propping an elbow on her knee as she raised it up to meet. \"You're right, we're traders, nowadays. They don't call it the Isles of Silk and Spice for nothing. We've been mostly interested in just shipping, but have moved onto a more hands-on approach.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "The Soshi nodded, noting Mai's favorite tea away in her mind for a later date. \"Even the sunset or moon lose their luster if you stare for too long, still I admire them often.\"\n\nSoshi brought up her fan at the direct callout, laughing along but concealing how it changed her expression. \"I appreciate your courtesy, and will not be slipping in through your window *Uninvited*. I am glad to be in good standing, I hoped for exactly that even with the dismantled alliance.\" She lowered the fan, closing it again and had a neutral expression as she continued. \"The art in your waiting room is beautiful by the way, I found the serpent to be really fascinating, I haven't had the experience of riding on a boat much less sailing on one, but the one on display also seemed very detailed.\" She offered a disarming smile pausing briefly.\n\n\"I should tell you then, rather than letting it end up being reported to you, I participate in trading as a secondary interest. I don't want to have that interest come into conflict here. I prefer the opposite, I would only hurt myself trying to tarnish the Mantis of the city, so I hope you can trust in me that I would rather help you with covering up a scandal than try and leverage one against you or your clansmen, if one should arise.\" She looked into Mai's eyes more directly as she spoke these words."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai listened to everything said, and spoke in turn, though in her mind she was thinking of other things. As she idly recounted that some of the Yoritomo could befriend sea serpents, and spoke about how she was actually on board one of the ships depicted in the mural, she was contemplating if it was best to just be blunt with this Soshi. She had been nice enough, very nice indeed. But, from Mai's standpoint, it felt like a woman trying to be very careful with her words. \n\n\"Soshi Miyoko-san.\" Mai put a hand up as if to halt the Scorpion, though the lady got through most of her words. \"I appreciate the respect and decorum you're showing me, definitely. But, if I am to be honest, there's no need for it.\" She sat up a little straighter, though she still lax and relaxed in her body language. \"My family, the Moshi of the late Centipede Clan, value Compassion when it comes to Bushido. With it comes passion, for certain, and I've definitely made my anger clear to Soshi Junichi over the failings of our alliance. But, I also told him that it wasn't his fault. Just like you, he showed up at an odd time. \n\n\"I say this to say, you don't need to be extra polite, Miyoko-san. I wear a lot of badges, but I've been a shugenja and a pirate the longest. Now, that said, if you're wanting to talk conflict of interest, I can let you know that the Mantis have no interest in opium. Medicinal or otherwise, though 'nobody' deals with the other, of course.\" A kind way of not accusing the Scorpion of dealing opium for drug use, though it was a common knowledge to the contrary. Just because the alliance was broken didn't mean she couldn't be respectful. \"As for scandals, I can't say I've heard of any to my knowledge. Though, if you know differently, I can certainly show gratitude for any enlightenment.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Miyoko seemed deeply engrossed in the story Mai told of her exploits, genuine interest seeming to shimmer like brightness behind her eyes.\n\nMiyoko nodded as she listened along, listening to Mai's words, \"I appreciate your compassion in this matter then, and will make a point to remind my dear cousin of that if further transgressions are committed by my scorpion peers.\"\n\n\"Moshi-sama, I am not being extra polite anymore, this is only my regular level of courtesy. I am polite even to those who are not samurai, and would've held this manner if I'd met you as a pirate.\" The slightest frown coming to show on her lips, \"I do not mean just the scorpion dealings of opium, I speak broadly of trade in raw materials, books, spices, silk and other goods. I am most personally familiar with Yoritomo Takeya-san, whom I often purchase silk from, for example. I spoke of future scandals, and hope to enlighten you should some come to light, so that we might snuff them out.\"\n\nReturning to neutral expression she met Moshi Mai's eyes again, \"Was there anything else you wanted to discuss, Moshi-sama?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Well, if that's the case, Soshi-san, then I shall hold you to it, and take you at your word.\" Mai bowed a little deeper than necessary. \"Apologies. You'll find that Lady Sun molded me into something more akin to a brute and a thug than an ambassador. I'm just good at adapting to whatever must be done. My mother always said it was the gaijin blood in me; supposedly the Maraeneans were quite the adaptable lot. At least more than the Thraenians, since they're all mostly dead and all.\" \n\nThe tea came then, nice and warm and fragrant. Once cups were poured, Mai held her cup up. \"To separate, but brighter beginnings.\" She drank, signalling that Miyoko could as well, and relaxed a little. \"I realy am sorry for accusing you for putting on a show, Soshi-san,\" She said. \"When you learn so late in life the inner workings of the court, you start to think everyone's out with a motive and some hidden deal in the shadows. It's making for a stressful life. I saw a _gray hair_ just the other day. That is _not_ okay.,\" She chuckled at her self-degregation, and settled back into the topic at hand. \n\n\"So, you've been trading with Yoritmo Takeya,\" She said. \"I've yet the get the time to sit down with him properly. Life has been busy, naturally. It's nice to see you've found good business with him. If you find that you need something he can't provide, mention me, and he might be able to work something out, or at least find the means to get you the right buyer. Since you're welling to aid with possible scandals, it seems only right to return one kindness with another.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lynniara",
"message": "Miyoko nodded, interjecting briefly after Mai apologized, \"I had not meant to cause you unease, so please accept my apologies as well.\" Miyoko listened about the Maraeneans and Thraenians, deciding it would be best to ask Takeya or Junichi about that at some point in the future, it wasn't something she was familiar with.\n\nThe Soshi matched the toast, offering a bright smile, \"I'll try not to make you feel that way in the future, I shouldn't need to play games with you. Really a gray hair? Maybe you should take more leisure time, when's the last time you treated yourself, Moshi-sama?\"\n\n\"Yes, Yoritomo Takeya-san and I are friends of sorts. I'll be sure to reach out if I find I have new and developing needs, but for now I'm doing alright. Maybe next time we should meet out by the river? I hear it's relaxing to soak your feet for a while, or are you more the swimming type?\" The scorpion girl offered, before drinking more of the tea."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"The last time I had any leisure time, my daughter was still in smallclothes.\" Mai scoffed at the concept of relaxing, having been at it for so long it hardly felt like she'd get any soon. \"It's all part of duty, at the end of the day, I suppose. I'm sure I'll find time to relax. We all die eventually, after all.\" \n\nIt was interesting (and slightly embarrassing) that Miyoko knew Yoritomo well enough to be friends (and knew more about the new arrival than she did). \"Well, it is good to know my Clansmen are making good business relations,\" She said simply, \"And among our old allies, as well. We can't let disagreements get in the way of what's profitable for the clans, after all.\" \n\nAt the mention of soaking her feet, Mai was indeed tempted. She looked up at the ceiling for a moment as she contemplated it. \"That... Would be wonderful, actually. Perhaps we shall, when I can find the time.\" She smiled, more geniuine than coy. \n\n||"
}
] | 270 | 3,925 |
230.368421 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ah! Fujiko-san! What do you think would be a better choice for tea today? A traditional green tea? Or perhaps some of that spiced black tea? The former honors tradition and may be more readily enjoyed, but the second will show Kitsu-san we are inviting her to experience what our clan has to offer, and may yet be a stronger sign of friendship...\"\n\nKana paced nervously about her office in the embassy having taken time to straighten everything out. She had come to view the Lion's war shugenja, Kitsu Miu as a friend, but she knew that in the case of a formal invite to the embassy, appearances and the messages they sent did count for something. They had gotten a response from the Otomo regarding their plans for a healing bathhouse, and she would hate to give Miu any reason to rethink their joint venture when they had already made such progress.\n\nShe was also grateful that Mai's daughter, Fujiko, was willing to accept her invitation to help. Kana knew somewhat of medicine ||Medicine 3||, but also enough to know that it would only strengthen their case if they had someone who had more expertise helping them prepare their presentation for the Otomo. \n\n\"I don't know... Am I perhaps overthinking things?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu would then decide to pop up out of the blue. After all she was taken in by a servant and popping up was what she was good at. She would shake her head. She had overheard the stress Kana had expressed yet decided to not act upon it. Today she had decided to dress up nicely due to the invitation to the mantis embassy, the one she had barged in last time to challenge and battle Moshi Mai so directly that she must've let some memories behind. Her hairs, separated in several braids, braided tight to her scalp, leading to a grand pony tail on the back of her head which had exposed her wild manes even more. The braids owed small golden beads stuck in them. \n\nThe golden eyes were contrasted with a line of green like make up, ever so subtle. She would wear a white top covered by a golden kimono embroidered with white details. This time she was wearing pants, just for the ease of it but it never made her look not elegant. *\"Moshi-sama!\"* The Kitsu had introduced herself into the room as she would bow down deeply. She held a lot of respect for Kana. In her hands had been a small box. She would offer it. Inside had been a statue, a totem for the water kami carved into wood. It would be their first sign of success she had hoped. \n\n*\"Thank you for having me!\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Fujiko had a bundle of supplies under her arm: scrolls, research papers, a calligraphy set, the works. She always went all-out when she was asked to assist on a project, no different than what she did for Utaku Masanori-sama (even if he broke her heart in a million pieces). \n\n\"Well, I like oolong tea and jasmine myself,\" Fujiko said, \"But I think green will be fine! Mother says that Kitsu-sama is a very kind person, LIon War Shugenja and all! So, maybe you should relax, Kana-sama. I'm sure-\" \n\nWhen Miu introduced herself robustly, and found herself immediately intimidated. Tall! Muscular! A forceful presence! Truly a warrior shugenja if she ever saw one! The little shugenja bowed deeply to the imposing woman, and stood _slightly_ behind Kana. Just in case. \n\n\"Uh, it's a pleasure to meet you,\" She said, bowing to the Kitsu, \"I'm Foshi Mujiko- I mean, Muji Foshi- Sorry! Moshi Fujiko, healer at the Jeweled Flower Clinic. I'm here to help you and Kana-sama with your bathhouse proposal.\" She bowed maybe three more times before getting the servants to get green tea and fumbling to set up her supplies. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, she is very kind indeed! I just want to make sure I'm leaving a good impression given the importance of our w-\"\n\nKana didn't have a chance to finish her thought as Miu entered the room, smiling brightly and bowing to her. The Lion Shugenja's positive energy always seemed to be a good fit for Kana's own, and she found it hard not to radiate happiness when around her. \"Kitsu-san! How good it is to see you! You're looking wonderful today! We were just finalizing preparations for tea. I hope that a classic, simple green tea is amenable to you!\"\n\nNoticing the box, Kana's eyes widened in surprise, almost forgetting about the customary three refusals before accepting the present. When she opened the box, she marveled at the gift; something both beautiful and honoring of the Kami. \"Kitsu-san, it's beautiful! When we get our venture approved, I will make sure that this is displayed proudly in our office!\"\n\nTaking a glance back to Fujiko, she suppressed a chuckle, instead offering a warm smile; considering the clan and her mother, she was almost certain that she would have been used to being around strong women capable of hefting a grown man over her shoulders. Perhaps an introduction would help put her at ease?\n\n\"I am honored to have brought the two of you to meet! Moshi-san is very skilled in the ways of medicine and healing, and has done me the honor of allowing to assist her at her clinic,\" She spoke. \"Kitsu-san is a good friend of mine, and the mind behind this whole idea!\" She stepped back a bit, allowing Miu to formally introduce herself to Fujiko.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu would bow down deeply. After all a friend of the honorable Moshi Kana is a honorable and respectable person. *\"It is a true honor to meet you Moshi-sama.\"* A healer at the clinic. She owed the clinic. Miu had felt truly humble as she had little knowledge on these crafts. Crafts she had admired and work towards for the longest time. The lion forgot that she had to stand straight for a moment. She rose only to reveal the most radiant smile she could put up. \n\nOnly would it grow bigger to see the joy Kana had displayed at her gift. *\"I am beyond joy you like it Moshi-sama. Please. Green tea is perfect!\"* She would state. Of course she wouldn't refuse tea. Wheter it had been disgusting or not. This was Kana and Miu had admired her. She was her friend after all. \n\nMiu would brush back her wild manes and adjust her clothing. *\"How are you today Moshi-sama? Do you think the fortunes will stay with us when we face judgement.\"* It was clear that that was a rethoric question. She knew it had to come from their wisdom and strenght. Maybe, just mabye a little luck. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Fujiko was relieved to find out that this Miu woman was much like her mother: strong, imposing, but actually very nice and pleasant. Okay, so she was different than her mother, as her mother wasn't near as nice to anyone not named Moshi Fujiko. So, she lightened up a little, and motioned for the older samurai to sit. She'd then pour tea for them all so they could get to business. \n\n\"So,\" Fujiko started, \"I am most pleased to hear about this bathhouse plan. The city is so large, and having only one major bathhouse seems rather silly. Did you know that a lack of consistent washing can lead to fungal infections? I have a research paper on the topic by a Kuni physician that's very interesting!\" She spoke of fungal infections like they were puppies and kitties. Truly an oddball. \"Oh, not to mention that special salts and hot water can ease joint pain and flexibility.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Fungal infections? I knew of some consequences to general health, but that sounds rather serious! Perhaps I should glance over that paper when I have a moment...\" ||Medicine 3|| She then moved to set out and fill the cups for tea. \"This is precisely why I asked your help, Moshi-san. Your medical expertise will help us to show the Otomo just what a benefit our plan can give to the city!\"\n\nLooking back to Miu, she took a moment before responding, contemplating the question. \"I think they may will. It was the kami themselves who guided us to the proposed location for our bathouse, so clearly they saw fit to smile upon us the day we first set to planning. I confess, I do feel somewhat anxious... It's not often one deals so directly with the Imperial line. However, I know we must face this challenge with confidence if we are to succeed. After all, they will not believe our proposition holds value unless we truly hold that belief ourselves!\""
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu would settle down as she heard the two of them speak. *\"Sounds like you exactly know what you speak of Moshi-sama.\"* She would glance over to Fujiko *\"May I one day visit you so you could teach me about these things? I seem to lack knowledge.\"* She would then look back at Kana.\n\n*\"But how much would a non shugenja honor the kami as much as us? I wish to not be pessimistic but much like many lion proved. They lack knowledge about the kami and therefore fail to make a clear judgement. They fear what they do not know.\"* Miu sighed. This had clearly been her main concern. *\"Do we have any knowledge about the Imperial family? I understand that, mind my language, complimenting them to death, will help but not do the job.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I'd be happy to share what I know,\" Fujiko replied to the other women, \"But I'm not an expert. You're more than welcome in my clinic to observer, though! There's always needy people that could use some aid, after all.\" \n\nAs the two spoke of the persuasion part, Fujiko sadly wasn't much help. \"Well, I know I make sure the taxes from the clinic reach the proper Imperial representatives, but I know little of politics and the like. That would be more my mother than anything.\" She rubbed her chin, lost in thought for a moment. \n\n\"Well, sometimes in old parables even grand heroes don't always believe the Kami, and they ask for signs. And the Kami always deliver in magnificent ways. So, perhaps we could demonstrate the effects in can have.\" She shrugged, unsure. \"I'd wager the Imperial servants are very tired with all their work, right? Well, maybe we can have a few receive our medicinal bath services, and show how more efficiently and happy they work. Happy servants make happier estates, as they say.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana listened closely to Miu's words. That was indeed the next part of the challenge. While she wouldn't go so far as to question the piety of the imperial line, it was true that those who did not commune regularly with the kami didn't quite have the same understanding of them as those who did. That left a lot of resting on protocol, and that wasn't exactly something which came naturally to Kana. \n\nThen came Fujiko's rather *Ingenious* Idea. Kana's expression lit up, and she broke out into her usual grin once more. \"That's brilliant! We will show the value of what we offer directly! Of course, we will need to think of what to offer to the magistrate overseeing our request as well; it wouldn't do to offer only his subordinates something, and we must make clear he would not partake in a medicinal bath alongside the heimin, but...\"\n\nKana trailed off as the mused on the matter. What could be offered to the line of the son of heaven? What could they give to someone accustomed to having nearly all they desired?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu would rub her temples with her fingers several times. She was clearly thinking but didn't have as much brain capacity as the two Mantis. *\"So we show our direct value...\"* She mumbled under her breath before sighing. *\"So we will make the clan samurai, magistrates and otomo their own bath place away from the heimin.\"* She repeated the words so she could think out loud. It was clear the red headed lion tried. *\"We don't want to be too slimy with gifts. We are not backstabbing like the scorpion.\"* It was clear she tried to hold a conversation with herself. Then she snapped back to the two of them. \n\n*\"What direct value do we have to the otomo? Why should our bathhouse contribute other than honoring kami and healing heimin and samurai?\"* She questioned them. She looked helpless on ideas. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Fujiko listened as the two older women thought and pondered out their ideas. All very good ones, and she was happy to know her little idea turned into such a great one! She was content to stay silent and let them work out the details, until they hit the snag of the higher ups. \n\nWhat could they offer...\n\n\"Well,\" Fujiko muttered, \"The baths have medicinal purposes for all, that's a given. But what would fancy superiors like?\" She wondered about it for a minute, before shrugging. \n\n\"I like fragrance and such when I take baths,\" She said, almost flippantly. \"Mother gets me fancy salts that smell nice, and that's always pleasant.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"No, not slimy, or underhanded, or attempting a bribe or anything like that, Kitsu-san!\" Kana reassured her. \"Simply a way of showing respect and what we can offer. And I think Moshi-san has the right idea! This may even show that we can offer something unique; after all, we can offer much more with fragrances than most other clans, thanks to our trade network!\" Kana seemed to get more and more animated as the discussion went on. The excitement seemed to only grow as plans were solidified...\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu was clearly relieved when Kana said they hadn't to pretend their extra goodwill. The eyes would glance at the two of them. She was clearly excited but still not certain how bath salts and nice fragrances could convince imperials that the bathhouse of theirs, which was a mare concept, could be better than the sole ranging bathhouse that the scorpion offered. *\"That does sound like a good idea.\"* She stated. Her eyes would squint. *\"Could we show them? I fear that the mere concept of our bathhouse will be easily contradicted by the idea of there already being a fully functioning bathhouse. One that can clearly not heal of course and has no honor to the kami of the water. Nor does it fulfill the duty of being of good quality like ours with the salts and fragrances. But perhaps they may consider it like empty promises.\"* Miu wished not to be a party pooper. But she had to be realistic for once. Strange how she had to be like that. \n\n*\"Can we, even though it might be a grand display or strange for a courtroom, bring a grand tub of wood, filled with water to the perfect temperature, show how we can heal a wound? Perhaps even show them how the kami would be delighted that their honor and will of flowing water is carried?\"* Miu seemed a bit embarrassed saying such things. She had to pretend to be smarter than she truly was. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Hm, a fancy bath demonstration...\" Fujiko liked this idea, and nodded in agreement. \"Yes, I really like this idea! We can get all the supplies from our Clans, no doubt, and Mother will surely sign off on this.\" Fujiko was excited at the prospect, indeed. It would be a lot of work to display such a thing in a courtroom, and there was the chance that there'd be no takers, but they might just be able to pull it off. \"Though, you know, we might not need to bring a large bath to them!\" \n\nFujiko had her cup of tea, and she carefully spilled it on the table to cover some surface without making a massive mess. \"Water Kami, hear me, please! Show me a place I recall, use this source of water as a mirror. Reflective Pool.\" And then, a clear image appeared of outside of the Embassy, where Moshi Mai was fast asleep, sunbathing like a lizard on a rock. Her centipede was lying on top of her, curled up in a coil. \"See? We don't have to drag everything to them, we can keep it elsewhere. Matter of fact...\" \n\nFujiko shook her head. \"No, no, it'd be too... Sneaky. But, if there's someone that wouldn't want us to have a bathhouse, it'd be the Scorpion, right? So, what if we got a Scorpion to try our healing bath? If we show them in the reflective pool being so well taken care of that they're very pleased... Well, you can't argue with results, fufufu.\" Truly, while the kindest of souls, Fujiko had some of her mother's bullying ability.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu's eyes would widden as she saw the water mirror. She would clap her hands together loudly enough to make the cups on the table tremble. *\"Moshi-sama! That is amazing!\"* She would bow down towards Fujiko, her eyes even more bright than they had been before. *\"You are a true strategist!\"* She would raise again as the now curious being had stared at the picture of Mai. She would chuckle a bit. After that she would sit up straight again. Upon hearing the plan she would nod her head. Even though Miu had no ability to bully anyone by now she saw the idea as a statement. \n\n*\"Have you heard of Yuto-san? The magistrate? I think he'd be willing to take a bath for us in return for a good bowl of ramen.\"* Miu had chuckled. Turning towards Kana in the hopes that she was into this plan as well. Taking a sip of the tea the Kitsu would stare at the two in good hopes. A warm smile on her face. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana couldn't completely disguise a snicker at the sight of her ambassador and the centipede cuddled up together for a nap, but she quickly caught on to Fujiko's meaning, her grin matching Miu's.\n\n\"Well, I think Yuto-san would be the perfect candidate! I do count him amongst my friends, and perhaps a therapeutic soak would do him some good. Perhaps lighten his burdens some. He might be asssisting us with a certain matter, so what better way to pay him back?\" She then giggled. \"Of course, were we to get bowls of ramen, I certainly would not object!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu chuckled. She would brush back some of her hairs. *\"I am glad Moshi Mai-sama wouldn't mind helping us out. Much like I am grateful you are helping us, Moshi-sama.\"* She would bow down once more at Fujiko. Then she decided to take a sip of tea. The golden eyes glanced over the table. \n\n*\"So, it is like court right? I am not familiar with how the rules are and how it works. Is there paperwork we require to do? Is there something that could simply instantly deny us? Even though our plan is 'waterproof' \"* She would question. Miu was nervous. It was clear this was a goal she'd love to reach. \n\n||\n\n*\"So I suppose you'll manage to get some special bath supplies from Moshi Mai-sama. Shall I try to arrange something with Yuto? I haven't seen him in ages but I am certain he wouldn't mind having a chat with me, or would you like to do that Moshi Kana-sama?\"* Miu offered but clearly didn't want to ruin anything. Looking at both of them with some hope of approval. *\"I could ask Himiko-san to arrange us some fine clothing or... Uh? Paperwork? I know Yoshihiro-sama knows a lot about the law!\"* \n\nMiu started to mutter and realized she was doing so. Taking a sip of tea to stop herself. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Whichever you prefer as it concerns Yuto, Kitsu-san. I would certainly have no problem approaching him myself. I think either of us have a good chance of convincing him to participate! It sounds like you've a few other connections you can rely on as well, Kitsu-san. It sounds like things are very much coming together.\" A wide grin spread across her face, the excitement palpable. \n\n\"As for the actual meeting, I do not know if this will be exactly like court, but I know that etiquette, formality, and the need to make our case effectively will be important. With that said, I am not certain that we'll be encountering that much in the way of resistance or objections.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 224 | 4,377 |
351.333333 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin entered the Mantis Embassy following the usual social protocols.\n\nBut while these halls were now familiar to him, even welcome, his senses perceived there were considerably fewer joking whispers that usually accompanied his arrivals.\n\nToday, the whispers were a little more concerned.\n\n*Provoking an Ambassador is foolish. Annoying Moshi Mai is suicidal.*\n\nStill, he steeled himself. He had done his best to collect what information he could from Moto Shadee, verify it at the Tomodachi-Maru. And from there, decide a course of action.\n\nAll that was left was to see it through.\n\nEventually, his walk made it to Moshi Mai's office, with the attendant announcing his presence. With practiced ease, Temujin entered and greeted the tan priestess-sailor with a deep bow.\n\n\"Good day, Moshi-sama. It is always good to see you again.\"\n\nA simple enough greeting, and he was prepared for small talk, but judging by the news that she was \"Angry about a fighting ring\", he didn't want to test the waters too much even with the older woman's garrulous nature.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai was happy enough to see Temujin, and didn't seem to be as angry as he might have expected. She looked rather unbothered, just working on mixing some paint at her desk. She allowed him to sit, and had a servant fetch the airag that was gifted by the Unicron Ambassador. A good sign. \n\n\"Shinjo Temujin, always a pleasure to see you.\" She stopped her idle mixing, and sighed. \"I'm guessing my daughter spoke to you, then? Honestly, she didn't need to put a word in, I can send quite the demanding letter on my own accord. But, it can't be helped.\n\n\"You see, Shinjo-san, there's a problem with Moto Shadee-san.\" She took a moment to stand and retrieve some scrolls, marked as being expenses for the Tomodachi-maru. \"See, she brought in some crowds for a time, as we predicted, but things have fallen off in recent weeks. She's not bringing in the challenging fights as much as she has been. Mostly because she hasn't been _fighting.\"_ \n\nShe displayed a roster of sorts, showing bouts, who fought, and who won. \"As you can see, she had quite the record. A true champion. But then she loses _this_ match, and now she's not fighting.\" \n\nShe slid the scroll over to Temujin so he could see for himself. \"Now, you were supposed to be managing this part of the business, and I'd imagine you'd be aware if there was an issue here. And yet, here I am with a problem, unsolved.\"\n\nShe rested her head in her hand, with a smug look on her face. \"Don't tell me you've been too distracted with other fighting women, now.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "\"Never at the expense of my duties, I hope,\" He murmured with a light blush on his cheeks while he scanned the scroll's contents.\n\n*Am I ever going to make the right call? Well, here's one right now: How far do I go for the Clan's Honour and my own responsibilities?*\n\nKnowing this balance, the Shinjo spoke to guide his own thoughts and keep the conversation going. His expression certainly shifted for a moment, and might have been noticed ||due to his Self-doubt||, but he continued to speak with clarity and purpose. ||Resolute||\n\n\"Thank you for updating me, Moshi-sama,\" He said as he looked to Mai. \"I appreciate your getting to the heart of the matter.\"\n\n\nFirst things first: Samurai must uphold the reputations of their Clan and superiors. So, as much as he valued the limited freedom Kazuko gave her subordinates, he couldn't bring that up lest she appeared irresponsible or the Clan disorganised.\n\n\"I could tell you my excuses or intentions if you'd like. Certainly, the early reports looked promising. I trusted Moto-san to continue with her duties, and had meant to follow up later on.\"\n\nIt was a subtle choice in language, but he kept the focus on what *His* Choices were, which was in line with Mai framing this as something he would be managing. From there, he made his next move.\n\n\"But the simple fact is this: **I** Delayed too long, and missed this error on our arrangement. The 'why' matters only if you decide so.\"\n\nThe scout then bowed. Contritely, at the right level for an apology... But no longer than was seemly.\n\n\"For that, I must apologise, and offer to make things right. If it's at all possible, I want to make this a victory for both of us, Moshi-sama.\"\n\nHe rose, eyes wary but determined with anticipation. Accountability was good; with the Mantis, boldness would help.\n\n*I hope.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Now, now, Shinjo-san,\" Mai sighed, \"I'm not going to yell at you like you were some merchant. You're a good friend to the Mantis. And you're well aware I've been courting your clan for alliance for some time now. So, the cynical mindset would be that you couldn't possibly be in _that_ much trouble. And that'd be correct. I'm not all that angry.\" \n\nMai pulled one of the other scrolls out, and it showed that the business from the ship was still making great profits in tax money to the Empire. It was hardly failing. \"See? I'm not about to lose my ship over this lack of bouts. But, as a friend to the Unicorn, I figured it was important to note it all the same, before it turned into rumors about the Unicorn reneging on deals or being unwilling to fight.\n\n\"See, the fighting business is a reputation business. Unlike dueling and that nonsense, nobody cares if someone is high or low-born. Reputation is built off of two things: How many wins they can land, and how they handle a loss. One of the crowd favorites is a fellow they called 'Brittle Jo,' and this man loses every. Single. Bout. Heh, I saw him get knocked clean out in a single punch, it was hilarious!...But, ahem, the point is, he always gets back into the ring, always thinking he's got another chance.\" \n\nMai crossed her arms, and leaned back a bit. \"Now, Shinjo-san, I signed a deal with you. Shadee is the champion, and will remain so through the year until Spring and a new season starts up. So I need there to either be a reason she's not fighting, or for her to get back into the ring. So, how do you intend to fix this? You speak some bold words, but what will be the bold _action?\"_ \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "With Mai's explanations, Temujin straightened up, easing up his seriousness, albeit with a bit of sheepishness.\n\n\"Fair enough, Moshi-sama. And I do appreciate the heads up,\" He replied. A bit of good humour entered his tone as he added \"I suppose I'm just used to putting in a little extra for my apologies.\"\n\nHe studied the details of the matches, trying to recall what he knew of Shadee. Looking back to Mai, the Shinjo's expression returned to a familiar state of seeming at ease, but also being thoughtful and alert.\n\n\"Well, first things first,\" He answered, \"I think speaking with Moto-san would be a good idea. Get her reasons and see what state she's in straight from the horse's mouth as it were, heh.\"\n\nOne hand reached to Shadee's record, tapping upon it for emphasis.\n\n\"Ideally, I can help her work through this. Get her on her feet and into the ring. With words, hopefully, though I'm prepared to *Make sure* She hears me.\"\n\nThe scout leaned back, arms folding thoughtfully. His words, though, were spoken with due consideration.\n\n\"But if she truly needs more time to mend herself, then at least I can better work out a reason for her absence, and figure out alternatives. Perhaps a substitute attraction until she's ready to return; volunteers from my Clan would be welcome,\" He suggested, then jerking a hand to point back to himself, \"Though I'm willing to step in. Even if my brief stint in the ring ended when it ran headlong into Utaku-sama.\"\n\nThat hand reached up, rubbing his chin contemplatively as he looked to the Mantis Ambassador.\n\n\"Though speaking of Moto-san, I'd actually like to ask you about what you know about her situation. Just what was this one loss like, in her match with this person? Were there any changes in her in the fights preceding it?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai was amused at the forthcoming decisions of Temujin. He would put himself in the ring to make up for the mistakes he made, so earnestly, too. She knew he could fight well enough, but it seemed it was not his place to be in a brawler's arena for everyone's amusement. No, it didn't seem right. All the same, she could tell he meant it, and he wasn't just blowing smoke to placate her. \n\n\"Temujin.\" Mai smiled, and sat a bit more relaxed. \"You really are an honorable man, you know that? There's no need to throw yourself into the ring, but I greatly appreciate that you'd go to that length. Truly, you're a fine man, and a fine match for Moshi Kana.\" She tossed that out there while the servants were away, but she didn't stop to elaborate further. \n\n\"So, Shadee-san. If I recall correctly, she fought a heimin woman named Moriko. A dockworker by trade, fighter by night. She's a big contender in her own right, you see, has a very stellar record of ten wins, two losses. Both were lost to Moto Shadee over the months. This last fight from how I understand it was a blowout. Shadee was bested in a very one-sided bout that ended in knockout. It was all pretty impressive.\" \n\nMai rubbed her chin as she pondered it. \"Losing to a heimin that you've beaten twice before... Perhaps that is what's bothered her? I wouldn't put it past any Samurai to not have a bruised ego from such a thing, but I also don't care. A champion must fight or relinquish her title.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "He had spent enough time with Mai by now to begin discerning the natures of her words: blunt honesty, bullying (both mean-spirited and playful), and sanguine (sometimes flirtatious) praise. So the earnest compliment left him feeling briefly abashed as he bowed modestly.\n\n\"That means a great deal coming from you, Moshi-sama.\" Temujin managed briefly before Mai's elaboration, also while the servants were out of earshot. She, too, would understand that his words were more than a common courtesy.\n\nThe Shinjo scout then listened closely to her explanation about Shadee's defeat. A very good showing indeed, until a loss to a similarly strong fighter... Whose streak was *Also* Ended by Shadee.\n\n\"I see. There's certainly fertile grounds for speculation right there.\" Temujin commented, cupping his chin. \"Off-hand, I think it's as you say, at least in part. I'm not sure if Moto-san cares about status, but the sudden turnaround would hit hard.\"\n\nThe hand fell back to his lap as he nodded with fresh clarity.\n\n\"For now, though, this is all the 'what'. I'll learn more about the 'why' from her directly.\"\n\nAt this point, the Unicorn then reached to his pack he hadn't had the chance to unwrap yet, bringing out a case for scrolls or other precious parchments which he presented to Mai with the courtesies she was comfy with.\n\n\"Of course, I'm ready to speak with her immediately if that pleases you, Moshi-sama. Though lest you think I'm slacking on my Ide-given manners,\" He quipped in a wry reference to his 'courtier's speech', \"I *Did* Remember to bring a gift as usual. And it's somewhat more elaborate than *Airag* Or *Boortsog*.\"\n\n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"It could very well be,\" Mai replied, \"And I'm certain you'll find the answer. \"But yes, she didn't strike me as one to care about losing to a heimin or not, but maybe just the way it occurred. But, I don't read minds. I mean, I supposed I _could,_ but that's hardly something I care to deal with.\" Mai sipped her tea, and let that lie where it did. She let Temujin speak about his plans to rectify the issue, and found them satisfactory as well. It was all up to snuff from the Shinjo, as per usual. Consistent, that he was. He kissed the right amount of ass, but never came around as groveling or disingenuous. Truly a good man that understood his place in the world, and how to appease the right people. \n\nAnd of course, Mai _loved_ gifts. She properly accepted after refusing, as it was done, but she did not open it yet. \"I will look at this later,\" She said, \"Because I don't want to get distracted with your stellar gift-giving for another topic, since I have you here.\" \n\nMai smirked, and pointed at Temujin. \"So. Have you told Utaku Kazuko of your feelings for Moshi Kana? What is the consensus? I have to speak to her soon enough about this, but since you're here, it'd be nice to know where she stands.\""
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "*Pride might be the issue here, so prepare for an appropriate approach. But stay flexible; Shadee might have other issues affecting her.*\n\nHe appreciated Mai's confidence in him, even considering the usual courtesies exchanged in diplomacy. All things considered, that was one reason he greatly enjoyed his assignments with her: While she knew when to play the game as well, there was a certain honesty to Mai. Audacity and bullying aside, to know where you stand with a good (if brusque) person was a precious rarity in the courts of Rokugan.\n\nThe questions then turned to the *Other* Hot topic between their Clans, and he smiled abashedly for a moment, his heart speeding up for a moment before he remembered his standings. A short cough feigning the clearing of his throat masked his own anxiousness. \n\n\"I have. And it went as well as I could expect.\" Temujin replied. \"Utaku-sama supports my feelings... Though as is proper, she will place the Clan's needs first.\"\n\nSteadying himself, he kept his expression even with full awareness of the divide between the personal and the professional. But even so, there was genuine gratitude in his eyes and voice.\n\n\"Still... To have her approval and yours is already a tremendous honour. And I'd best make sure I stay in those good graces by word and deed!\"\n\n||"
}
] | 376 | 3,162 |
366.052632 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kakita Kiyoko took a deep breath as she approached the Mantis embassy. They were hardly *Enemies*—though maybe not friends, either—but formal etiquette always stressed her, regardless of to whom she had to direct it. The Crane samurai-ko was attired in a formal black kimono, itself embroidered with myriad blue sakura blooms, and carried her daisho at her hip, as was customary for the bushi. Over her kimono, she wore a pale blue haori with the mon of the Kakita family on the left shoulder, that of a crane cradling a katana in its wing. She wore her platinum-white hair in a layered chin-length bob, and her pale porcelain skin was accentuated by a distinctive beauty mark to the right of her chin. In one hand, she carried a small wrapped package—a gift for the Mantis ambassador.\n\n\"State your business with the Mantis Clan,\" An ashigaru challenged her as she approached, one of two ashigaru stationed at the embassy gate. Turning her ice-blue eyes on her interlocutor, Kiyoko bowed and replied, \"Kakita Kiyoko, here on behalf of Doji Rika-sama and Doji Koharu-sama. Moshi Mai-sama has invited us, though Doji-sama and Doji-sama send their regrets and myself in their stead.\"\n\nThe ashigaru gave her companion a look, then ran inside the compound to inform the relevant parties of Kiyoko's arrival. And so, Kiyoko waited, careful to keep her expression dispassionate and neutral as the remaining ashigaru warily kept an eye on the Crane.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Moshi-sama, there is a Kakita Kyoko-san here to speak with you.\" \n\nMai looked up from the table, and to the ashigaru that informed her of the visitor. \"Just one?\"\n\n\"Yes, Moshi-sama. She sends regrets from Doji- Rika and Doji Koharu-sama. Shall I allow her entry?\" \n\n\"Yes, yes,\" Mai sighed, \"Just have her in the sitting room for a moment. Chiyoko-san, get the reports from the Moment's Edge-\"\n\n\"I-I can do it, Mama Mai!\" \n\nMai and Chiyoko both looked at Mika, one of Mai's pirates-turned-servants, who broke about three different rules in her outburst. Mai didn't answer, merely staring at the young lady, waiting for an explanation. \"Well, um, I was, uh, I learned how to read, since being here, and I wanted-\"\n\n\"What? To show off? 'Look at me, I can read!' Is that it?\" Mai's bullying made Mika shiver, but she still gave a little nod. \n\nMai scoffed, and waved her off. \"Go on, then, Mika-san, go fetch me the reports.\" Mika beamed, bowed, and took off like an air kami. \"That girl...\" Come, Chiyoko, let's get ready.\" \n\nAfter having Kiyoko wait for a period of time that wasn't _too_ long, but just long enough to be rattling (a new trick Mai picked up from Doji Rika), A servant would call upon Kiyoko to follow her to the meeting room. She would be led to a room with large tapestries depicting rolling waves and Mantis ships, maps of the charted seas, and other nautical knick-knacks. \n\nSeated at the table was Moshi Mai and Chiyoko, the ronin standing to bow to the superior before motioning to an empty seat by the rest of them. \"Welcome,\" Mai said, \"Kakita Kiyoko, is it? My yojimbo here says that you fight brilliantly.\" Chiyoko looked over at the Crane, and offered a small smile. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko stole an occasional glance at the ashigaru minder she had been saddled with at the Mantis embassy gate. Wary, but disciplined. It spoke well to the Mantis samurai present at their embassy that they instilled such a sense even in lesser bushi. Not that Kiyoko would make the mistake of underestimating a man or woman simply because they were not consummate warriors; a peasant with a yari could kill a skilled samurai in the right circumstances, after all.\n\nIn-between stolen glances, Kiyoko simply meditated unobtrusively where she stood. Breathe in, breathe out. Let the moments flow together and simply wash over you, as her Sensei at the Kakita Dueling Academy had taught her. Like all curricula taught at the Dueling Academy, it had been taught as a means to make Kakita duelists more deadly in a fight, but it had its uses even outside of such circumstances—like dealing with boredom.\n\nFinally, after what seemed like an interminable length of time, a servant came to the gate and escorted Kiyoko inside. She relinquished her katana reverently to the servant once inside, as befit an ancestral katana, and exchanged her zori sandals at the foyer for a pair of provided slippers. She then followed the servant deeper inside the compound.\n\nAt length, she arrived before what must have been the assigned meeting room. The servant bowed and slid open the door, and Kiyoko stepped inside, taking a seat opposite a familiar ronin and a less-familiar woman Kiyoko had seen only a short time beforehand at her own embassy foyer. She slid her wakizashi out of her obi and set it to her right in the place of peace as she sat.\n\n\"Kakita Kiyoko, yes, Moshi-sama,\" Kiyoko said. With a glance at Chiyoko, she added, \"It is an honor to hear such a summary from a skilled yojimbo such as the one at your side.\"\n\nThe Kakita duelist took the small wrapped package—no larger than a large walnut—and placed it on the table. \"A small token,\" She said, bowing her head slightly. When unwrapped, the package would reveal a small cherry-wood netsuke, this one carved in the shape of a ship with a cat's head figurehead.\n\nThough she felt somewhat out of her depth in what was shaping up to be a courtier's game, the Crane waited patiently for Mai to lead the conversation.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "As expected, Mai refused the gift twice before accepting it, and found the little netsuke adorable! She watched it sway for a good while before packing it back into the packaging, setting it on the table. \"A small token, well-accepted,\" Mai replied, \"I thank you.\" \n\nA servant entered with jasmine tea, pouring for the samurai and ronin. \"Now,\" Mai said, \"Let us get down to what we know.\" Mai unrolled one of the scrolls, a report written by Chiyoko. \"From what I understand, Kazane-san is still too far in shock to give a proper testimony. But, she did ramble about gangs in some capacity. According to _this,_ Chiyoko-san and the late Kakita Yuzuki defended themselves against two gangs.\" She looked to Chiyoko, a queue to speak. \n\n\"Yes, Moshi-sama,\" She replied, \"I fought alongside Kakita-sama against two gangs: The Strong Arms, and the Moment's Edge. Both gangs were in the middle of a conflict of their own, and refused to disperse or at least let Kakita-sama remove herself from the scenario. When I saw she was a Crane Samurai, I felt it best to assist.\" Chiyoko crossed her arms, sighing. \"Once it was said and done, we slew many gangsters. I believe the Strong Arm's leader in that bout was a ronin named Hayade. Kakita-sama bested her, but spared the woman's life.\" \n\n\"Hm. That could mean that the gang felt the need to get revenge.\" Mai muttered as she looked back at the report, and then finally to Kiyoko. Yuzuki Kiyoko-san, \"Have you any thoughts on this? What has the Crane been able to come up with?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko gave a small bow of her head as Mai looked the netsuke over. She wasn't used to the gift-giving practices of samurai and courtiers, but at least it seemed she hadn't committed a breach of etiquette *Yet*. She took up the provided tea, cupping it in both hands, and listened intently as the Mantis and the ronin spoke of what had transpired before the murder of her kinswoman.\n\n\"I see. It makes sense that a ronin leading a gang might not accept such a defeat with humility,\" She said. \"A face-saving gesture like revenge may have been the only thing keeping her followers in the gang from abandoning her.\"\n\n\"What is known of the Strong Arms and Moment's Edge gangs, beyond the Strong Arms' leader, Hayade-san? Are they known to dwell in a certain district of the city?\"\n\nThe Kakita samurai-ko paused and took a sip of the tea. \"I am afraid that it seems Kakita Yuzuki-san spoke little with any of the embassy staff about this incident. Kazane-san may be the only one who can tell us more than Chiyoko-san has,\" Kiyoko said, nodding at the ronin. \"I am also somewhat curious why they have not tried to kill Chiyoko-san, as well.\"\n\n\"As I recall, Moshi-sama's daughter is a shugenja who calls on the Kami to heal, yes? Maybe that would help us get more answers.\"\n\nKiyoko paused again, staring into the contents of her tea cup for a moment before continuing, \"No heimin or hinin can be allowed to attack a samurai without suffering the consequences. If we know where these two gangs are, then a raid on *Both* May be in order.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai nodded, concurring with the Kakita. \"Indeed, to these gangs it seems face and reputation are all that matter. Taking out a Clan Samurai would be a big step towards rebuilding fear in enemy gangs. If I were in their shoes, demanding satisfaction would have to do. But even then, this was a gang-up, no duel for honor.\" She rubbed her chin, thinking about the two gangs present, and which one fit better. \n\n\"Moment's Edge... Those firemen come out of the Juniper Teahouse. A deceptive place; let's just say you can get a _lot_ more from that teahouse than _tea._ They're as dangerous as any other gang, but they're still firemen first and foremost.\n\n\"Then there's the Strong Arm. They're actually ruthless, and are far more aggressive than the other gangs. The reason why eludes me,, but they're looking to expand. They control the northern part of the Merchant Quarter. I've had to figure out ways to get Mantis establishments accosted because of them, but they haven't clashed with us directly.\" \n\nWhen the word was spoken out about Chiyoko, Mai rested eyes on the ronin to give her permission to speak. \"Some time after a raid on a kidnapping ring, I met with a few Clan samurai for a follow-up. It was fruitless, for the most part, but it was _at_ the Juniper Teahouse. A message was left for us there, in the mouth of a dead man.\" Chiyoko took a sip before continuing. \"It was a message from someone named Tsubomi, who is believed to be some sort of connecting force. The note left spoke of \"Acquiring\" The Moment's Edge, and going to war with another underworld boss, a person known simply as Silver. Who they really are is a mystery to me. But, to answer the question, the note was considered a warning for me not to get involved in business opposed to Tsubomi, and likewise Moment's Edge. I haven't had to, so I remain unmolested.\" \n\nThe last musing was a good one, and Mai found wisdom in it. \"Moshi Fujiko may just be able to provide some sort of help,\" She said, \"Though matters of the mind and soul are difficult to deal with. But, it's worth a shot. I will have her sent to the Crane Embassy. Kakita-san, you'll handle approval for this, correct? Strange Mantis unannounced aren't usually appreciated.\n\n\"But we are in agreement, Kakita-san. Something must be done. But, there is some nuance to this. The gangs aren't just criminals. They're also the firefighting force. Without them, the city burns. One can't simply wipe them out without windowing the subjects and orphaning the children. It's an easy way to get the people to turn on you.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "\"Firemen, hm?\" Kiyoko mused. That was certainly an additional wrinkle in the 'kill them all' plan. \"Perhaps the best approach is to raid both, cut down only those who resist, and then take the remainder back for interrogation. Or... Take Hayade-san captive for the Strong Arm, and this Tsubomi for the Moment's Edge? That would, of course, depend on knowing whom this Tsubomi *Is*. Unless Moshi-sama has another idea?\"\n\nThe Crane took another sip of her tea, momentarily reminded of her difficulty learning the art of the tea ceremony. How *That* Part of the Kakita Dueling Academy curriculum applied to making her a better duelist, she did not know—but her sensei had made sure that his displeasure was known. Kiyoko's eye twitched involuntarily as she thought about it, and she pushed the thought aside.\n\n\"As for the visit to the Crane embassy, I will speak to Doji-sama. She wants this...*Issue* Dealt with as well, so I do not think there will be any problems.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "A raid... It wasn't the worst idea, but there were many moving parts to think about. Mai knew more about the underworld than she let on, including who Silver was (or, at least knowing more about Silver than most). They would need to be approached about all this, see if they could provide some insight. Hopefully at a price that could be afforded. \n\n\"Capturing these two would be a big undertaking,\" Mai said, \"But it's more feasible than a raid from the Mantis and Crane. We're not equipped for combat on land as much as by sea, and the Strong Arm are entirely willing to fight Samurai, and seem to have the wit to end one. Mind you, with underhanded tactics.\" Mai slipped her hand into the folds of her robes, and pulled out her well-worn pipe. \n\n\"I have connections I can go to for information,\" Mai said, \"And I can get more information about Tsubomi and Hayade. From there, we can see which gang was responsible, and target one. The gangs need to be taught that they can't just do as they please, yes. But attacking the wrong one that wasn't responsible for the death of the late Yuzuki would only show that the Samurai are brutes, no better than them. No, we need to be _surgical._ If it's the Strong Arm, we find those responsible for the attack, slay them, and leave the rest. If they wish to retaliate after that, we _destroy_ them.\" \n\nMia lit her pipe, and took a long draw from it. It was good to hear that Doji Rika-sama was taking this seriously, though she couldn't say she was surprised. But, they were to play nice, and this situation would be a grand time to show cooperation. \n\n\"But, that's just Kakita Yuzuki. What does you clan know of the death of Kakita Arai? All i was aware of was that he was shot with a gaijin weapon, a crossbow or some such.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "\"An oyumi bolt,\" Kiyoko said, referring to a larger crossbow most often used in sieges. She had never seen one herself, but that was what the report she'd read had noted. \"And a scroll that said something like 'The people of this city grow tired of their master's games.' I am unsure what that means, or whether this mystery scrivener was referring to a single master, or a group of masters—nor the identity of this master or masters.\"\n\nShe took a sip of her tea. \"And his daisho was missing. Beyond that, little is known. The scroll makes it seem like it was heimin, but who knows?\"\n\nTruth be told, Kakita Arai's death didn't concern her as much as Kakita Yuzuki's, just as much because it was shrouded in more mystery as that she had been present when Yuzuki's death had been reported.\n\n\"Perhaps Moshi-sama could go to these 'contacts' for more information on that, as well,\" Kiyoko suggested. She couldn't imagine that anyone among the Crane embassy staff would have much to do with the sketchy, dishonorable individuals who might traffick in such information. That seemed more the realm of a pirate or a ronin than a Great Clan samurai.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"'The people of this city get tired of their master's games.'...\" Mai rubbed her chin as she thought about the note, and wondered about it for a moment. \"Masters' games could mean many things... But -and no offense meant, Kakita-san- the Crane are hardly 'masters' of anything in this city. So surely they weren't targeting the Crane personally. It _could_ be work of those blasted Kolat... Another thing I'll need to look into.\" \n\nMai let out a puff of smoke, and sighed. \"Well, I might as well get that information right now.\" She stood up, and Chiyoko glanced at Kiyoko and went back to her mistress. \n\n\"Moshi-sama-\" \n\n\"Kakita-san, if you'll follow me.\" Mai looked to Chiyoko, and nodded. \"Doji-sama already knows, there's really no point in keeping it a secret. Besides, we're playing nice with our Crane friends. Friends share information.\" \n\nShe would walk casually down the hall, with Chiyoko escorting Kiyoko down the way. \"A while back,\" Mai explained, \"A sorry excuse of a samurai dared to rebel against the Mantis and throw in the Kolat. This gaijin piece of trash hid from me for some time, before I got the Scorpion to track him down.\" She led them to a dark room that had a trapdoor, leading down into a cellar. The smell of refuse and blood came from down below, making the ambassador's nose wrinkle. \"When we captured him, he told a big story about knowing many things, and offered his info for his life, spared. Well, I don't negotiate with terrorists. I take their information until I'm done with them.\" \n\n\nIn the cellar, down in the corner were a couple sets of cells, iron-wrought cages for containing criminals. But, there was only one prisoner : A gaunt, rib-skinny gaijin man, with an unkempt beard and long, straggly brown hair. He had clearly been beaten, burned, and worse, legs manacled, arms as well. \"Meet the Gaijin Edward Williams, Kakita-san. If he has any information, he'll share it. Won't you, Ed-kun?\" \n\n\"Fuck you,\" He growled, \"You bitch! I'm not a slave to you or any one! LET ME OUT OF THIS CAGE, AND I'LL SHOW YOU MY TRUE P-\"\n\nChiyoko slammed her katana's sheath into his face, making him reel and moan in pain. \"Shut up, traitor.\" She looked at Kiyoko, and nodded. \"Ask him what you wish. He'll talk, or he'll be useless and disposed of.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko tilted her head in concession at Mai's words. She did not think of the Crane clan as 'masters' of anything in Ryoko Owari Toshi, either. The Kakita samurai-ko furrowed her brow at Mai's invitation, then rose to follow. As the trio traversed the hall, Kiyoko tried to recall anything that she had heard of in her travels about a group called the *Kolat*. Weren't they a group of rebels who sought to overthrow the existing social order in Rokugan? Kiyoko could not recall ever encountering anyone like that before, nor could she say that she had heard much more of them than that.\n\n*What was that smell?* The Crane thought, wrinkling her nose in disgust as they entered a dark room and the smell of offal rose to greet her. Still, the Kakita kept her silence as she descended to join Mai and Chiyoko in the cellar. The unfamiliar environs set her on edge, but she was reasonably sure that her clan's new friends weren't going to betray *Her* In this cellar, at least.\n\nKiyoko sized up the gaijin in the cage, careful not to show any sympathy for his plight on her face. He was, after all, a gaijin—and apparently connected to the Kolat rebels, somehow.\n\n\"Edward,\" She said, aiming for a neutral level of familiarity (on the—wrong—assumption that Edward was his family name), \"I understand that you claim to know things worth keeping you alive for. Tell me: Who is Tsubomi-san, and where can we find this person? And what do you know of those who sell oyumi? Or that use them to attack samurai in alleyways?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Edward glared as best he could, with the newly swollen eye from Chiyoko's painful rebuke, aimed at the Crane that came to visit. \"Huh. So the Crane are in cahoots with the Mantis, huh? Hell must've frozen over-\"\n\n\"Answer the question, dog.\" Chiyoko's threat of violence was understood, and the gaijin grumbled and looked back to Kiyoko. \n\n\"Tsubomi runs the Moment's Edge now,\" He said, \"After that other Crane bitch and this ronin whore got into their little spat on that bridge. She's been making some moves to unite a lot fo the gangs. Started trouble with the Strong Arms after they failed to annex the Moment's Edge gang. My glorious movement has tried to pull her to our cause, but she's staunchly one you bushido-loving idiots.\" \n\n\"And what about the oyumi?\" Mai asked the question, crossing her arms. \n\n\"There's a seller,\" He said, \"But they're discrete, and they wouldn't sell to someone randomly. My movement has bought them in the past, but they sell to the gangs as well. I know that a bunch of them were confiscated during some raid on a kidnapping ring. Cyclops here knows about that.\" \n\n\"Oy. Nobody calls her that but _me.\"_ Mai stepped forward, and looked as if he was going to punch Edward, who flinched so hard that Mai could only laugh. \"Now, Chiyoko-san, explain what he means.\" \n\n\"Well,\" Chiyoko said, \"The kidnappers had oyumi at their disposal. Poison tipped, nasty business. Bayushi Kaori-sama took a shot from one, damn near killed her.\" \n\n\"If only,\" Mai muttered. She looked back to Edward, and studied him carefully. \"You know about the deaths of Kakita Arai and Yuzuki, do you not?\" \n\n\"I don't know anything but what the street knows,\" Edward replied, \"Especially Yuzuki. She was killed _after_ you bastards strung me up down here. As for Arai... Well, It wasn't the Kolat. We would've _claimed_ it. No, somebody else took him out.\" \n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The Crane samurai-ko stared at the gaijin in silence. So the oyumi could have been one sold to any number of parties, including the firemen gangs and the Kolat—or one confiscated by samurai after a raid on a kidnapping ring. If the Kolat didn't do it, who did? Kiyoko didn't like the idea that it might have been a samurai, or even someone working on the orders of a samurai, but it was a possibility. Hard to fathom though it was.\n\nShe shifted her gaze to Chiyoko. \"Who else was part of this raid? And did someone confiscate these oyumi afterward?\"\n\n\"As for Edward-san,\" She said, looking to him again, \"Have you met Tsubomi before? What does she look like? And where does she operate out of?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Chiyoko looked to Kiyoko, and gave the information she had. \"It was myself, the late Kakita Arai, Utaku Masanori, and Bayushi Kaori. I can attest that Utaku Masanori-sama wouldn't do anything as disgraceful as kill Kakita Arai.\" \n\nMai raised an eyebrow. \"And how's that?\" \n\n\"I've spent enough time with the man to know he is a true Samurai of great honor. It would never cross his mind to do such a thing. Besides, Crane and Unicorn are allied; killing Kakita Arai benefits neither.\"\n\n\"Then there's Bayushi Kaori...\" Mai scoffed, crossing her arms. \"I'd never put it past a Scorpion to do something disgraceful, but I can't assume it true just because I'd like it to. Though, Bayushi Kaori has the skill and ability to do so...\" \n\nChiyoko concured, bitterly so. \n\nAs for Edward, he shook his head at Kiyoko's questions. \"I never met the woman myself,\" He said, \"But the Juniper Teahouse is part of her operation. If you want to see her so badly, show your face there and ask. Though I'm sure she'll peg you for another high-and-mighty, sanctimonious Samurai.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The Crane hid a mildly amused smile behind a cough at Chiyoko's testimony to Utaku Masanori. Lovers, perhaps? Regardless, Kiyoko could not imagine how Kakita Arai's death might have benefited the Unicorn or the Crane either. She had never met the man, but the ashigaru and jizamurai at the embassy still held him in high regard.\n\n\"I have met Bayushi Kaori—once,\" Kiyoko said, recalling a rather tense soak in an onsen she had shared with the Scorpion. \"She is nursing an arm injury, is she not? That may have made loading the oyumi difficult. Even if it *Were* Her, though, I would wonder what the Scorpion clan would have gained with the death of my kinsman.\" \n\nShe wasn't convinced it was the Scorpion behind it, either. The Kakita duelist turned her attention back to the gaijin. \"And does Edward-san know anything about the Juniper Teahouse? Its layout, secret entrances, or the like?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Loading an Oyumi is difficult, yes,\" Mai noted, \"But shooting one is a breeze, or so I'm told. Old Man Tsuruchi Gou-sensei has ranted my ear off over that 'coward's weapon', as he put it.\" Mai recounted that particular exchange, and tried not to think too much about that grumpy old man. Instead, she focused on Kiyoko's musing about a purpose against the Crane. \n\n\"Girl, have you just been adopted into your Clan? The Scorpion and the Crane have been enemies for generations, especially in this city. When my Clan was part of an alliance with the Scorpion, it was clear that they wanted to worsen Crane relations in the city. Something I was tasked to take care of.\" She was glaring at the gaijin, but she glanced back at Kiyoko. \"All water under the bridge, mind you. Old enemies make the best of friends over time, yes? But, it still points to the fact that the Scorpion wiping out duelists especially could be a move. If things go to court and get nasty, it's hard to win a duel if your best duelists are all dead.\" \n\n\"Wow, what an amazing thought.\" Edward spoke sarcastically, leering at Mai. \"Come up with that one all on your own? No wonder the Mantis are such idiots, if you only just picked up on that-\"\n\n\"Speak when spoken to.\" Chiyoko struck the man again, ending his rant. \"Apologies, Moshi-sama. I should have hit him a lot sooner.\" \n\"No, it's fine,\" Mai said, \"Now answer Kakita-san's question.\" \n\nEdward spat a tooth out on the ground, and gave a few breaths. \"All I know is that if you want to get into the opium den at the Juniper Teahouse, you need to ask for something special. That should get you to where you wanna get. Not that they won't call you out for a Samurai immediately, you white-haired wh-\" \n\nAnother strike, just as hard as the other. Edward growled at Chiyoko, and tried to grab at her, but his shackles kept him subdued. \"...There. Are we done here? I think I'd rather pass out in peace.\" \n\nMai looked at Kiyoko. \"Well? Anything else to this man? I grow tired of his disgusting visage.\""
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko blinked at Mai, nonplussed. Still, she had a point—much as the Crane hated to admit it. There was little love lost between the Scorpion and the Crane clans. Inter-clan politics was something that Kiyoko had had the luxury to be ignorant of for the past six years, which still made thinking of other clans as enemies hard.\n\n\"Moshi-sama has a point,\" She conceded. \"And of course, even with a broken arm, someone could assist with the loading. Neither mean that that *Is* What happened, though.\"\n\nShe turned her attention back to the gaijin. His defiant attitude was admirable, but he really wasn't making things easier for himself by mouthing off to his captors. He was right, though: her white hair was pretty distinctive. She was not inclined to hide her samurai status or her clan, but if she did, the hair would be a dead giveaway. On the other hand, if she were to brazenly walk into that teahouse as a Kakita, white hair and daisho and mon and all, it would certainly provoke a reaction... But it would also forewarn their quarry and might make it harder to capture her.\n\n\"No, I think we are done here. Thank you, Moshi-sama,\" Kiyoko said.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"You're most welcome, Kakita-san. Now, let's be off.\" Mai ushered Kiyoko back up the stairs, and looked back to Edward and Chiyoko. \n\n\"Shall I end him, Moshi-sama?\" \n\n\"No, not yet. But soon.\" \n\nWith that, the Samurai left the basement, and the ranting, angry Gaijin behind. \nNow back up in the civilized side of life, Mai sighed, and ushered a quick prayer to the kami for purity and cleanliness. \"Well then, that's some enlightenment, I suppose.\" She looked back to the Crane, and rested her hands on her hips. \"Now, I believe we have ourselves some assignments. I will look into my contacts to see what can be learned about the Strong Arms, see what they might be up to. You'll look into Tsubomi, carefully; make certain you don't act foolishly and make the same mistake your fallen made in underestimating these gangsters, yes? If it can happen to the greatest duelists in the Empire, it can happen to any of us.\" \n\nMoshi Mai gave a small bow. \"If there's nothing else, you are free to leave for the evening. As soon as I know more, I will notify you and Doji Rika-sama.\""
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The Crane samurai-ko followed the Mantis and her bodyguard back up out of the basement. She did not envy the gaijin his fate, deserved though it may have been. Better to die a warrior on the battlefield (or the dueling field), she thought as they walked.\n\nTopside, Mai brought her out of her contemplations. \"Moshi-sama honors me with her concern,\" She said with a slight tilt of her head. \"It will be as you say—no rash actions where these Firemen are concerned.\"\n\nKiyoko bowed in return. \"I believe that is all. Fortunes smile upon you both,\" She said, offering a respectful nod to Chiyoko as well. With that, she excused herself and retrieved her Kakita Blade katana, *Reitenseiya*, from the servant to whom she had given it for safekeeping upon her arrival at the Mantis embassy, and departed.\n\nShe had preparations of her own to make.\n\n[End Scene]\n\n||"
}
] | 367 | 6,955 |
382.76 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Shinjo Sumire had made her way once again back to the Mantis Embassy, still feeling slightly guilty at the timing. She had been working on her schematics as part of a big project for her clan, very important stuff, but her pre-scheduled appointment with the Mantis Ambassador was this afternoon. It was the time the ambassador had chosen for the appointment, leaving her cut off from the work she'd been doing. That did make for a bit of a distraction, her thoughts still generally back in her work rather than stepping away from it much as the rest of her had.\n\nShe had to keep in mind, this too was something of a duty as well, it too was important. She certainly had handy something to present herself a keen reminder of how serious her present situation was. Once within the embassy proper, she pulled out a small wooden case and withdrew its contents. She'd been expected to wear her glasses while she was here, and so that was exactly what she was doing. Quite significantly, nothing could be a more intense reminder the severity of circumstances then wearing them here now.\n\nWith that accomplished, she advanced as she had once before, following the directions she'd been given for her visitation. She just hoped that the ambassador was not displeased at this distraction from any other outstanding responsibilities."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "A few of the guards outside of the Mantis embassy were exchanging stories and smoking when they clocked Shinjo Sumire. They were quick to get back at attention and receive her, learning she was there to speak to Moshi Mai. A servant was beckoned, and in turn dashed off to make sure that the ambassador was receiving guests. \n\nAnd that particular day, Mai really shouldn't. \n\nShe was swamped, with multiple ledgers in front of her, copying down and doublechecking each log, inventory, and expense report. She wasn't going to allow any sort of discrepancy, and when there was so much money tied up in so many merchants. She had a couple problems to deal with, one being the red lamp. If what Chiyoko told her from Akio-san, it decided to go the opium den route. She'd demand her loan back, breach of contract being the reasoning. And there'd need to be a _lesson_ taught for trying to embarrass her. \n\n\"Moshi-sama? Shinjo Sumire, to see you. Shall I tell her you're busy-\"\n\"Is she wearing her glasses?\" Mai didn't look up from her work, and awaited an answer. \n\n\"Yes, she is, if you mean those metal things with the glass.\" \n\nMai smiled, and shut her ledgers. \"Good girl.\" She stood, and adjusted her kimono. \"Bring her in,\" She said, \"Bring her out to the garden, since it's a lovely day out.\" \n\n===\n\nAnd so, the servant would fetch Sumire, and escort her to the garden pavillion, where cushions and a table were set up on the porch. Moshi Mai was already sitty, a cheerful look on her face. \"Well, well, if it isn't Shinjo Sumire-san! And with her glasses, too.\" She looked very much approving as she ushered the woman to sit. \"Please, sit, and tell me what you'd like to drink. We have just about anything you'd like.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "When she got word that she wouldn't be going further inside, she was confused and concerned that there were other unexpected problems. Of course, if there were, they weren't actually her business either, so her concern did not invest into curiousity. Being directed to the gardens instead did nothing to assuade the inner turmoil either, it only progressed it. She had a strong interest in being helpful, and was being left with the impression she might be having the inverse of circumstances going on.\n\nThe Ambassador however was at least looking cheerful, a sight that might serve to calm her down so long as it wasn't simply a respectful approach to a guest. She knew, if things were going bad and she herself was to entertain a guest, she would have need of looking cheerful and relaxed too. Even now, troubled and worried, she was still greeting the Ambassador with a smile and a formal bow regardless of the worries she'd been developing on her arrival.\n\nAs requested, she took to the provided seat to relax upon. \"Traditional teas work the best for me, but.. I'm not adverse to considering the traditions of my host. It can be very informative to learn about the teas another likes to have.\" She still recalled the milk tea incident with her brother, which had become an insightful lesson on considering another's perspective. \"I know we'd worked out this time in advance, but I hope nothing had came up since to make this an inconvenience for you.\" Her escort at least had not given most confidence assurance in their disposition that the present lady did not already have a lot going on. Her keen sense of social investigation left some mixed messages from the guards as a result, a sense of stirring confusion. Of course, that too was but another's perspective, which is why it was best to not lead with any assumptions. Instead, she simply brought the subject up."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Well, if you don't have a preference,\" Mai said, \"We'll have a blend I like from my hometown.\" Moshi Mai beckoned one of the servants to bring a pot of Centipedes Sting, a rather imposing name for a rather fruity and delicious tea. \"Don't let the name fool you, my dear,\" She said to reassure, \"It's just got some tartness to it. Hence the sting. I think you'll enjoy it.\"\n\n\"Now,\" Mai said, arching her back a little, \"Before you get the wrong idea, I didn't forget about our standing tea time. Things have been very busy for yours truly, and between meeting with the other clans and reviewing the merchant's profit ledgers, I've gotten nothing by numbers jumbled up in my head. If anything, forgetting and getting reminded just now actually was a relief; I had been looking forward to this, and a much-needed distraction from all this work was necessary. All work and no play, as they say.\" \n\nMai noticed that Sumire was wearing her glasses, as well, which made her smile. \"And if you can accept a compliment from an old woman, let me say those glasses frame your face quite nicely,\" She added. \"I appreciate that you took my request to heart.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She wasn't certain about the tea, and not distinctly by its name. The name was curiously questionable, but she'd always been one for exceedinly mild flavours, a tart flavour won't be something she would be used to. At the very least, she would know of this in advance, it was at least more rational than being surprised by milk tea.. Or even spiced chicken. It did sound like a respected tradition, so she would have to likewise respect it as a guest. In such a consideration, she displayed her formal respect for such a generous opportunity with a pleasant demeaner, though not an actual smile. She was being a bit too formal for that.\n\nInstead, hearing the situation from the ambassador was itself worrying, something much harder to keep from being caught in her eyes. The start left her quite concerned about being a burden, but the conclusion left her torn for other reasons. The workaholic simply did not understand the relief of not working. She paused in speculation, then considered that maybe this was something of a joke. After all, they would be considering other things in meetings.. Between two different clans. This was still a form of work, it was just a different form of work. Maybe it was then a joke so that she might relax, a relief of tension and all of that. Maybe so that they might both relax. Considering this, she decided it would be most sensible to go along with it.\n\nShe then found her smile, the business-variety version. \"I'm glad to hear that my presence here has then helped in some way. I would not want to cause you problems in your own home. That is too why I came here with these on.. Following your request. I did discover that walking around an unfamiliar hall with these on can be a bit disorienting. I apologize in advance if I misstep as a result, things feel a bit closer than they might actually be, things move a bit faster than I might expect.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai picked up on a bit of concern coming from Sumire, when Mai mentioned being glad to have a distraction. That was curious; she figured that a younger person would understand better than one her age that it was great to have a moment to what one wants. The ignorance of youth, perhaps, to not take what one could get, when the could. All the same, Mai didn't call out the girl; it was clear she wasn't one for confrontation. Reminiscent with her dear Fujiko, in a way. \n\n\"Oh, no need to apologize for something that hasn't even happened yet,\" The ambassador insisted, brushing away the statement with her hand, \"You are here on good, friendly terms. You're not going to be judged so harshly in such trivial things. See, unlike the Crane or the Scorpion, while I do demand a certain amount of respect and decorum, I'm not one to make a big stink about such things.\" \n\nOne of the servants arrived with a tray, containing the tea, cups, and also two small plates of dango as an extra treat. \"Goriki-san,\" She said to the servant, \"Tell Shinjo-san here what you and the crew call me.\" Goriki gave a look to the ambassador, as if to make certain, and the simple nod made it clear it was fine. \n\n\"Well, Shinjo-sama, we that were part of her crew on the _Shibamaru_ call Moshi-sama 'Mama Mai.' It's a term of endearment, you see.\" \n\n\"Mhm, a term of endearment. Not fit for court, not at all, and my crew still messes up from time to time. But, I'm not going to throttle them for it. Nitpicking is a coward's game, as far as I'm concerned. So, be at ease. Sumire-san, and try the tea.\" Goriki poured the cups of golden-colored tea, and also made note that the dango's sweetness paired well with the tea (as a means of overcoming the tartness, no doubt), before bowing and leaving the two women in peace."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She just nodded at the ambassador's refusal to accept her pre-emptive apology. She might have been worried about it on her approach, and stumbling might simply be something she just did on frequent occasions, but maybe being pre-emptive about an apology might be seen as trying to escape the responsibility for its occurrence. She should have saved such a thing for after it happened. Even so, she wanted to raise awareness of the issue in some way, the cursed things on her face were still taxing what little coordination she had in order to attempt to restore her vision. Well, that too she had to apologize for, so maybe the smart approach was simply to be ready to apologize both before and after something went wrong. Surely this was the wisdom the ambassador was trying to present to her. After all, that would be exactly why the ambassador presented wisdom of the use of words in past and present, and how changes of circumstances could impact the words being used.\n\nShe sipped some of the tea to try it, not quite sure what to think about the tart taste, but figured this too was a matter of perspective. \"Your circumstances did leave you a lot of changes to go over, significantly changing the perspective between then and now. Traditions are hard to leave behind, but that does not stop perspectives. It can then be a lot to adapt to, sometimes.\" Her statement was only further reinforced in trying to appreciate the snack, even the dango was a bit sweet for her compared to the style of rounded rice she usually had. She wasn't used to stuff like this, her own traditions were considerably more plain in flavour. Even so, that did not mean she had an escape from adapting, she was to appreciate the traditions of her host instead. Accepting that responsibility, she wasn't about to give up on the tea."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"You are correct on that notion,\" Mai replied, sipping her tea, \"I've had to change a lot about myself. But, it was for the better, I would say. As much as the high seas and combat upon it excites me, it has been clear that I was playing a young man's game. At my age, I should be leading fleets, not a long ship. Hence the ambassadorship.\" A bite of chewy dango was nicely contrasting the tart tea, making for a delightful snack. She couldn't tell if Sumire cared for it or not, at least not yet. \n\n\"As for traditions, however, I _never_ abandoned them.\" Mai raised a finger as she corrected her young guest. \"You see, Sumire-san, there are parts of one's culture that are tradition, and those that are part of circumstance. I would not say a Mantis that moved to the Lion's plains would be abandoning their fishing tradition. There's no fish to fish, after all. Likewise, while I may not sail ships out to battle, that doesn't mean the traditions are no longer in place. It's all about balancing what is expect and what will honor your ancestors and the kami. \n\n\"Much like your glasses.\" She pointed them out with a knowing grin."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She could admit to the youth she herself had to grow out of, that there was also things she left behind. \"It sounds a grander scale of what I was told originally when sent to this city. That I had my time tinkering on small projects a few might enjoy, that now it might be better to find a more telling use for my talents where they might benefit more than just a few. Your own experience investing your talents into the benefit of so many has just seemed the path of a samurai, to become more capable so as to invest it towards even more people than we might have been limited to before.\"\n\nShe partook upon a further sample of tea before continuing, the drinking of tea becoming something of a fitting routine in conversation. \"I did not say you abandoned them, only that you might have needed to have left parts behind. There is an important distinction there. I suspect that even a fisher without fish still has their tales to share, even if there is no fish to catch. You even spared your own tale and map about your own voyages. Sharing tales like that speaks of traditions that certainly were never abandoned, but it is still something left behind. I expect, much like drawing, a fisher who does not fish for many years may feel pressure were they to look upon their trusty tools again. There was still something left behind, which can then be a lot to adapt to.\" This too was something she was familiar with, especially when she can compare the past she'd left behind with the past she'd abandoned.\n\nEspecially when also considering matters of her glasses, the past which would not let her abandon it."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Now, it's important to keep in mind that even the smallest of projects can yield great bounties,\" Mai replied.\"Seeds are but tiny specks, but they can make a field of wheat under the right conditions.\" As always, Sumire had much to say. It was hard to tell at times if they were conversations or the girl's inner musings, but in both ways, Mai was interested. \n\nAs Sumire rebutted on the traditions topic, Mai could see what she meant, but it wasn't the way _she_ saw it. But, as she listened, she slowly picked up on what Sumire was saying. Mai sipped her cup as the younger samurai talked, and indulged in dango as well before replying in turn. \n\n\"Now, I see what you mean,\" She said, \"And yes, there are days I wished I could be out on the high sea, fighting gaijin and pirates and such. A much simpler life, that was. But, a simple life makes for a weak life, and a dishonorable one. Take, for example, me, Moshi Mai. Born of Moshi Minata and a Mereidien. I am brown of skin, tall of height, and I surely don't share the features of a good normal Rokugani woman. 'Wild woman,' my mother would call me. Loud, rambunctious, and unafraid to make sure I was recognized. \n\n\"Now, if I were smart _and_ cowardly, I could have done all I could to be as acceptable as possible. I could've bleached my skin with creams, cut my hair, caked myself in makeup to look as Rokugani as possible. Be agreeable, timid, _silent._ That was always an option, and it would've led me to a much easier, quiet life. A simple, easy one. But, in doing that, eschewing what makes me a blessed being that Amaterasu spoke to, I dishonor my mother, all Moshi, and myself as well. If you must make yourself into a harmless, formless shell to appease everyone around you, then those people are not worth appeasing.\" \n\nMai put up a finger, expecting an argument and deciding to cut it off swiftly. \"I am _not_ saying to act a fool, mind you, nor would I dare to defy our Rokugani customs like Bushido and the Order. No, I am saying in a roundabout way,, if you need glasses to see, and you are now at such a detriment that wearing them is disorienting, then you _need_ to wear them. You can easily sit in a corner as a normal, boring Unicorn girl, or you can make a statement. They say nails that stand out get hammered. Well, nails that fall under the table don't get used at all.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "When the ambassador conveyed their own perspective of traditions, she had the opposite reaction. She found it easy to follow along at first, a tale of history she did not understand but could at least appreciate. After all, she herself grew up with many differences she had to adjust to, so it did make sense. However, she lost pace soon enough. After all, in her case, it was her distinctions that were proven inabilities that served to deny her a place at her mothers side. It was the reason she was cast aside, despite trying to keep up. Even now, she could still feel the judgement of others due to her inability with a horse, her only salvation was that she could find value in other ways. To be called a coward.. That too was simply more judgement in her inabilities. She wasn't about to simply do nothing because she was unable to do something, she instead found something else that might give her meaning. So, she at least did not see that as cowardice.\n\nThough the teacher which raised her after her failings had became known might have disagreed even more intently, as that teacher certainly had believed that becoming as Rokugani as possible was an inflexible requirement, regardless of how artificial the results might have been. Such had been the basis that had tried to remedy her failings, to judge her more than any others with a strict upbringing. But as a child under such a teacher, she'd not resisted very much.\n\nAs such, it did not mean she was willing to call out the ambassador upon this either, to stand up against the wisdom of her elders. \"I will make sure to wear them for each of my visits here.\" It was a statement that was not convinced, only saying what needed to be said to hopefully make another happy. She still did not understand how come matters of her glasses had become so serious in discussion, but that too might be the fault of her circumstances. She certainly was not about to argue with the mantis ambassador of all people."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Oh, so now you're placating me?\" Mai didn't look pleased at Sumire's answer, and it definitely showed with the frown and furrowed brow. \"Shinjo Sumire-san. I didn't ask you to wear those because I wanted to look at you with them on. Granted, you look very pleasant, they frame your face wonderfully. But I'm asking you to do this for your own good.\"\n\nMoshi Mai sighed, and fell silent for a moment. It would seem the girl wasn't getting it, or she was afraid to get it, perhaps. The ambassador could tell the placation must have meant she hit a nerve. A truth, or a question the younger woman wasn't ready to look into? \n\n\"I am not calling _you_ a coward,\" She said simply. \"One can act cowardly without being a coward. I just know a thing or two about being from a land, a people, and an origin that is not accepted by all. I know my enemies will bring my gaijin blood into question when they can. My odd customs, my past.\n\n\"I suppose I just see something in you that I'd rather see flourish than fail.\" Mai crossed her arms, a sigh leaving her. \"Call it an old woman trying to bestow knowledge on a youth. Honestly, it's none of my business what you do. But tell me, what do you think of all I rambled? Do you see any wisdom in the words?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Nothing confused her more than someone who genuinely was interested in her own happiness for the sake of her own happiness. Even her own efforts there came exclusively in other motivations, mostly duty. The only happiness she might strive towards was for others. Thus, she couldn't think of a reasonable purpose in actions other than to either uphold proper responsibilities or at the very least so that another could be happy. To be told it was for her own good.. She couldn't even fathom what the ambassador was getting at with that remark. Even still, she was still partaking in the snack offered as a sense of obligation, with absolutely no concern about her own feelings about it. She wasn't giving herself the chance to develop an opinion on it.\n\nBut one thing sitting soundly in this situation was a subtle nostalgia that surfaced in memory, talking with the older mantis. Something about this reminded her of her own mother, especially since her mother might have been about the same age as the ambassador when last they'd been together, though she had no way to know for certain. The same woman who had shown her some strange things and strange stuff as if it was completely normal, and she'd not known any better at the time. Not understood any better at least. Back then, she'd accepted wearing such glasses without question. It was only once she was denied her mother that such an illusion had been shattered. They had been forced to go different ways because compatibility was lost, there were too many differences.\n\nShe was still very uncertain, the sting of memory passing sadness over her expression. \"I don't know. Time can be very unforgiving, the past can be very distant. There would be wisdom in your words, but.. Different people have different perspectives. Sometimes.. Things are much more complicated I guess. I am already working to do my best in upholding my duties, and I won't give up on them in cowardice. I will continue to work hard every day.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Well, my dear,\" Mai said with a sigh, \"If answering questions were easy, we would _all_ be philosophers and diviners.\" Mai uncrossed her arms, realizing she was just pressing a bit too hard. If Sumire wanted to change, she would, but one couldn't make a horse drink, no matter how much you push or pull. \"That said, at the very least I pray you take my advice to heart. It'll be good for you, both soul and honor, too.\" \n\nWith that said, there was a small lull in the conversation, made for eating and drinking. Dango was delicious and chewy, tea was bitter and full of citrus. Quite pleasant for Mai, maybe not so much for Sumire. Thus, she motioned to one of the servants to bring more tea, but jasmine this time, a much more safe and acceptable flavor. As she had said, it was important to tow the line between traditions and culture, and keeping up appearances. \n\n\"So, now that I'm done scolding you,\" She teased, \"Why don't you talk my ear off for a moment? Whatever you wish, too. Serious, business, casual, a limerick, even.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "As the conversation shifted, she noticed the tea did as well. As her appetite was generally lower than most, and as she'd been having a proper portion of the previous tea, she was unsure how much of the new tea she would be capable of. She was originally wondering what the new tea might be, until it showed up in its classic form. She had no questions about it, it was simply a decision with a reason.\n\nShe was instead more pondering the implications of the question asked. She may have been overthinking the question in the process, like it was lined up for her to have something specific to come up with, the purpose was so that it might look like she was the one to speak of it first. The problem then was that there was a touch of things that had just occurred that left her repeatedly second-guessing herself as to what she was expected to speak of next. This pondering left a period of silence over tea as she sorted out a suitable plan.\n\nShe eventually settled that the intend of this reversal was to have her speak upon the map she'd been left with prior, and how its presence in her life had served to enrich herself. \"I had found a place for the sea map from before, making sure it was stowed properly while making sure to look it over some nights. I'm not used to sea maps, so it isn't like it completely matches the work that I do, but then again the ways of water can alone be complicated for me. I've done drawings in a similar form, which can make representing water extremely challenging. It is something else I've had to.. Reflect upon. Manipulating the ways of water has been something that has also seemed quite complicated, when it comes to more of an.. Urban planning. It is something more to appreciate in such a map. Seeing the whims of water like the map shows has certainly been an interesting perspective as a result.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Sumire's perspective on the sea chart was an interesting one. How often did the Mantis take their sea charting for granted as an easy thing, only to be reminded that it was actually quite difficult for others. It was nice to know that it gave the young woman some insight, and it was even nicer to hear she was treating the map with care. While Mai wasn't lying in saying she had so many maps, it was nice to know it was being honored properly. \nIt was also just nice to hear Sumire speak with some passion. She really liked her cartography, which Mai could appreciate (even if she herself had no patience or skill for it herself). \"You would've gotten on well with my late husband,\" Mai chuckled. \"You two could've discussed mapping for days, no doubt.\" She drank more tea as Sumire continued, speaking of the whims of water and more. \n\n\"The interesting and daunting thing about sea charts is that, the more we explore and the further we go, the more useless the old charts become. One must remember there was a time in our history that we never knew that Thrane or the other Gaijin from across the sea even existed. So, these maps change constantly, and sometime the winds can lead into uncharted territory. \n\n\"At that point, it's wiser to turn to divination than maps! Something I did upon my ship, though divination was never my strong suit.\" She looked at Sumire, with some curiosity. \"How about the Unicorn? When your lot traveled the burning sands and more, was divination ever a tool at your disposal? I'm rather curious to see if it differs all that much, to be honest.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She recalled the inquiry of a Crab prior who had presented the inquiry of seeking exactly such a perspective. \"With the maps he's made, maybe.. Though that might depend on how much of a taste he might have for my own work. The work I do puts water more into the background, if there at all. I've even tried making diagrams.. More of an artistic piece.. But have found water to be a significant challenge to draw in the same lines as a map.\" She basically has been doing line art, and expresses that manner of drawing both in words and with motions in the air.\n\nHowever, her line art has found water to be an ongoing challenge. \"Clear water is so impossible to draw unless it is just the edge of the picture. To draw water over something else, for example, there is very little that serves to put the invisible there at all. Water can be represented by motions, but that is more challenging in a picture without it just looking like strange marks upon something else. Did your husband ever have an trick for representing water that might work for such a thing? The best thing I've found, recent advice too, was to consider the distortions in water's reflection and how that might put waves in what is behind it. I'm still not sure about applying that, though. I don't really understand the ways of water's reflection.\"\n\nShe wasn't so certain about matters of divination either, though this too reminded her of her mother somehow.. In some uncertain way. \"Divination? I've had work recently presented to me that tries to accommodate the kami more than just people... That's been a lot of stuff I just don't know about. I remember it coming up though when I was little, but...\" Such was a while ago, and a lot had changed since then. As this brought up her mother again, she just went quiet, instead finding an opportunity to just look up at the sky. In fact, curious enough, the clouds of the sky were so intriguing today.. Possibly when she could see them with much better clarity."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "When Sumire spoke of water and the issues of drawing it, Mai was amused. She also had a problem with it, the few times she tried to make maps. She had no talent for it liker her late husband, so it never worked out well. But, she had still learned a thing or two from the man. And now, she could pass that information on to someone else. \n\n\"When it comes to water,\" Mai began, \"It is truly where art and practicality come together in mapmaking. Now, most mapmakers add some waves here and there, or white foam by the coastal lines. It's serviceable. But, if one is clever, you can do a lot more.\" Mai didn't have a map handy, but she could do something rather particular. She made a quick prayer to the air kami, Flight of Doves, and now her words would have accompanying illustration. \n\n\"Picture a map of the coast of Rokugan,\" She said, and behind her, the map would appear, large enough to view with ease, \"And we need to chart the sea. We paint it blue, of course, but as we go further off, we make it deeper in tone, to establish the depths of the waters. Around the coasts, we draw some ships, with simple sails of the Clans that patrol the waters there. Out further to the east waters, we add sea serpents and gaijin ships, to depict the danger there. To the south, angry waves with skull faces within them, to depict the tainted waters of the shadowlands.\" The illusionary map depicted it all well enough, though some of the waves moved, as did the serpents. \"As for clear water,\" She said,pausing to think, \"Perhaps apply a sheen to it. A glossy coat to depict shine and clarity. Like so.\" She held out her hand, to her painted nails and the finish upon them. \"As the term says, crystal clear.\" \n\nMai would dismiss the illusion when Sumire was done looking upon it, and focused back onto what Sumire said about divination. It seemed the girl had some experience, or at least had some nostalgia. \"Curious,\" Mai mused, \"You must know something, then... Oh.\" Her eyes tracked Sumire's and the way they looked up at the clouds. \n\n\"Cloud divination, eh? I was always taken the astrology route, the few times I fiddled with it. But, do you know something of Cloud diving? You _must_ show me, if you are. I _insist!\"_"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She realized that, once again, others depended upon the use of color to represent water, something her line art drawings did not make use of. It really was a rather expert approach, presenting water appropriately by lines alone, without color or shading. It made her wish she could also draw into the air itself, showing the distinctions of what could be captured by lines alone. She didn't have her tools on hand, so it was not an option.\n\nAt best, she would have to serve her reply in words instead of actions. \"That is what I've heard before, but it depends on a drawing serviced by colors and shades. What then best presents a thin layer of water falling before something standing behind it, when there are no blues and whites, when there are no shadows in tones? Without shadows, all that is left is how the distortion of water best catches the reflections of...\"\n\nWith no motions required of her, she found herself still mildly distracted by the backdrop of a sky she was seeing in full clarity. The clouds were just puffs in motion, abstract shapes, but somehow certain designs were imparting a meaning to her she didn't quite realize. On a day with its own winds going, the clouds too had a lot to speak about.\n\nSome of it was tangentially related, too. \"Light? What? Eye.. I... Sorry. The clouds are being distracting. Something about light through an eye.. Artificially? Hold on, is this about.. A.. Night-gaze? No, what was it called again. Oh, a spyglass! Water.. Shaped through a.. Spyglass.. To change how something looks? Wait, that's not it. Not distorted.. But.. Closer? Closer.. Like a spyglass... On a sea.. Not of water.. But sand? A spyglass of burning sands? A flow of sands, as transparent as water... As firm as ice? A spyglass.. In a wave.. That curves light? At sandy waters.. Burned to ice.. As a crescent moon, light is.. Moved?\"\n\nShe was starting to physically get as dizzy as she had gotten mentally. \"Sorry, I guess that was strange.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Well, if there's to be no shades nor colors, you could always... Erm...\" Mai wasn't sure how to put it, so, compelling her spell once again, she tried to conjure up a map in monochrome. \"Just... Put little lines that are like ripples a little?\" It looked crude in the air, but the outcome was sure enough: simple little undulating lines, depicting ripples. \"Sometimes, my dear, you have to adjust to... Hm?\" \n\nMai cocked an eyebrow as Sumire got into her divination. Looking up at the sky, she didn't' make out anything that Sumire was saying. So, instead she just focused on the girl and her words, and what words she said and _didn't_ say. \n\nLight through an eye... Or a spyglass, which would change how things appeared. But on the sand, but transparent? It truly sounded like glass, but closer to the eye, perhaps? Moshi Mai closed her eyes, then, and tried to meditate on what the sentences were, and what they meant. \n\n\"It's quite alright,\" Mai said, \"Divination is tricky, and the Kami don't always like to be upfront with what they want. I will say, the mentioning of glass comes up a lot. Though, we talked about your glasses quite a bit. Admittedly, it's most _me_ poking around about it. I could actually use something like that, the older I get-\"\n\nMai stopped for a moment, as something sort of clicked in her mind. \"Hmmm.\" She smirked, an idea in her head. \"You know,\" Mai said, \"Glass is still rather new for Rokugan, but I've had some rather good experience with people being impressed by it. And if I know it correctly, it's created by sand, ash, limestone, things like that. Well, what if the Unicorn and the Mantis were to come together and work on a venture of making glass, here in the city?\" \n\nShe was clearly excited with her own thought, the way she smiled and got more animated. \"Yes, that _has_ to be it! Think about it, Shinjo-san: A new product, forged with the sands and materials of our Clans, as a great sign of unity that would be _crystal clear_ to all! Ha! And the way these noblemen are always looking for the next big thing, we could make some major profits for our Clans. Granted, we'll need to bring this to Utaku Kazuko-sama, but I doubt she'd balk at business!\" Mai definitely had her mind up about this, which she slowly realized. \n\n\"Ah, apologies, but when treasure shows itself, I'm prone to attack it. Call it my pirate nature.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "The initial ripples statement was something she'd considered in the past, applied to practice, and not resolved anything but making it look messy. It had never satisfied her before, but her potentials in drawing were still greater than her present ability, she still had room to grow. She may have considered anything to do with this, but the shift in subject directed her towards the new tangent instead.\n\nThe most meaningful statement resounding to her was still that closing bit. Sandy waters, burned to ice, as crescent moon, light is moved. It almost sounded poetic, but it was too complicated to be appreciated like that. Like the ambassador had said, sometimes figuring out these translations just.. Left things unclear. She was still worried it might be her fault, despite her keen analysis of very distinct details that others less versed in her own ways might have missed, potentially distorting the message even further. Being a bit out of practice though wasn't helping much.\n\nShe did however find herself getting swept away quickly as the ambassador took quick judgement upon the details and quickly derrived a relation to the statement and the glasses she was wearing, that topic coming up once again. \"Glass is made with sand? Like the burning sand? Is that how.. Burned to ice? I'm really not sure, some of this doesn't seem to add up properly. Like, how would that relate to a crescent moon moving light? Also...\" She was about to ask why in the world the skies above would care to share secrets about her burdened curse, but that probably was not a worthwhile idea to invoke again.\n\nWhat got to her the most though was the blossoming of excitement that just surged from the ambassador, like she'd brought something that provided so much happiness, which by her nature just made her resistance too challenged. \"A clan project at least might be promising for the prospects of our alliance, that is true. If you wish to spearhead it, maybe you might just make it work.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Moshi Mai snorted at Sumire's confusion. \"My dear Sumire-san, if the spirits and the fortunes were straight to the point, shugenja like me and monks like the Dragon would be out of a job a _long_ time ago. No, that divining needs to be studied and worked upon for the answers.\" Mai was already abuzz with the idea, how it may work, and what it means for this possible alliance. \n\n\"But yes, glass comes from sand, and other things. I don't know all the details; the last person I asked about it was a Maraenean pirate that was dispatched soon after. Anyway, sand, heated to an extreme level, and some other minerals make molten glass, which is formed... Somehow. Like a blacksmith, no doubt. If I recall, there were rumors that there was a member of your clan that was interested in that...\" \n\nWhen Sumire encouraged Mai to spur up the concept, she shook her head. \"No no. This was your divination, so I won't be stealing your idea, even if it was _I_ that made it visible. What I _will_ do, is write your ambassador with a grand endorsement of you and this particular idea. I'll make sure to note we were just chatting and it came up naturally, and that you made certain that nothing was decided until Utaku-sama gave an endorsement. This will you _very_ good for you, my dear.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Mentions of shugenja divining reminded her of her other outstanding work, matters of understanding the whims of much the same context out in the bazaar. It was already something she was lacking information about, even though she did have an appointment later with a shuganja of her own clan to discuss even further matters of the same nature. It was obscure for her, but maybe this sort of thing was more clear to those who were already invested into it. After all, she'd heard others not see the clarity in architecture, it was probably the same thing. This portrayed that something like this matter of glass interpretation would require work, but she might not be the most qualified to do that work. She was better at making plans with the information others could share with her.\n\nIn a consideration of that, she just listened to the account of observations that seemed to make sense to the ambassador. \"Blacksmithing sand? Strange. I guess that's how you burn sand.. To ice? I don't know. I guess the crescent moon moving light is even more complicated. Someone else among the Unicorn is already working on this stuff? That's.. Surprising.\" She wasn't aware of someone else doing glass-smithing, but even the shugenja she would be meeting later was someone she'd not really known that well either. Knowing everyone could be challenging like that, much like her lack of understanding that a crescent moon was like a concave lens.. Quite similar to the design of her glasses. That though might be a challenge for most to figure out.\n\nIt was as if the ambassador's excitement had concluded with a shake of their head, to her disappointment. \"If this is to be chosen as my duty, I'm prepared to work upon it as I would for any other duties. I will await the judgement of my own clan's ambassador in this matter.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Surprising? The Unicorn, up to something exotic and interesting and against the norm? Honestly, sometimes I think you might be _Doji_ Sumire, young lady.\" Mai chuckled at her bullying in jest ||Jokester Strength||, but she quickly got back into the swing of things. \"I would recommend you speak with your clansmen, see what they know about it. It would be a nice joint venture, and a good show of initiative on your part. I'll draft a letter to Utaku Kazuko-sama as well, to make sure the proper channels were followed.\" \n\nWhen Sumire gave her noncommittal answer, Mai frowned. \"You know, you're allowed to be enthusiastic about things. And it's also fine to take initiative or request to start a project. Those that wait to be told what to do end up sitting on their hands.\" Mai sipped her tea, and set the cup down. \n\n\"All the same, I _do_ hope you find some enjoyment in this. I'll enjoy working with you, as much as I do talking to you. Even if it's like talking to the Carpenter Wall, sometimes. All joking aside, I like you, Sumire-san. You've made a good impression by me, and having an ambassador as a friend is a good thing.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She expected the jest made was a pointed disappointment in her not keeping up with the activity of others in her own clan, that it was a disappointment to her clan. It was a rather harsh regard, though it also felt as a pointed and sharp drive to ensure proper research was not disregarded. This would only come up later however as additional confusion, when she looked for someone fitting such a description on her own, and nothing turned up as a result. She would have to expect that something got missed in that statement, somehow.\n\nThat would however be later on, at present she would worry at what she was missing in her own statement. \"I have been doing work that furthers my duties already, even before it is made a request, not depending solely upon the wisdom of others for ways to properly contribute to my duties. For example, I've been making maps of the city, mostly for the practice, but also because architectural maps like that have held their own purpose. It has helped already to provide guidance to new samurai who arrive in the city, to adjust to an unfamiliar layout.\" She was someone with a drive to help others, though she was notably less talented in doing something for her own sake alone. There were reasons for this, but it did seem that the ambassador was picking up upon something like this.\n\nIn pondering her outstanding responsibilities, she did realize that she might have stayed the full term of her visit, and she had other duties that would be expecting her presence soon. \"Speaking of duties, I apologize but I might have need of departing so as to stay on schedule. The conversation has been so immersive that the trail of the sun seems to have passed more than would be expected. I still have some diagrams to prepare regarding my work, especially for a meeting soon to occur. I thank you for your hospitality, though.\" She made sure to bow at that, the room spinning faster than expected as a result of her still wearing her glasses while doing so."
}
] | 389 | 9,569 |
324.5 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The day had arrived. After taking as much time as they dared to swiftly prepare, the Unicorns were finally approaching the Mantis. Two samurai, each very different in appearance yet united in their goal, approached the embassy.\n\n\"So, Moto-san, have you ever been to the Islands of Spice and Silk?\"\n\nAnd as they neared their destination, one of them tried filling the space with small talk to distract himself.\n\nTemujin, daisho at his side, was clad in a mix of his dark riding tunic and the lighter haori he'd wear together with his kimono. Fashion was not one of his talents, but he knew two things: the kimono was a better choice for traditional groups, and the Mantis were hardly traditional.\n\nHe hoped the fusion of appearances would make a good first impression, make his words more palatable. But he was hardly a Crane or a Scorpion, who could declare any number of emotions by the most minute details on their attire.\n\nWhile part of him was proud to speak for the Clan, he had to suppress his doubt over the fact that there were surely others better-suited to this duty. The scout tightened his grip on the diplomatic pack, containing proof they represented their Clan and a gift ||in a well-sealed waterskin||.\n\nEventually, they reached the entrance of the Mantis Embassy. Temujin greeted the attendants with a small but polite bow. When he spoke, ease returned to his voice.\n\n\"Good day. We are here on behalf of the Unicorn, and we wish to see the ambassador.\"\n\n*Stay calm, Temujin. You've gone through this with Ide-sama plenty of times.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku found herself in the embassy, hoping to attend to some personal matters in regards to trade arrangements when the Unicorn entered. Though standing nearby, she did not immediately speak to them, but instead regarded them with a curious brow over her strange dark eyes.\n\nMost of the other clan attendants left the strange, spooky pale woman in the pure white kimono alone as she awaited her turn with a minister - thus allowing her an unfettered observation of the pair as they introduced themselves to the attendants."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Junkō and the rest of her fellow crewmates of the *Shibamaru* Weren't too keen on being servants at the embassy. Ever since Mama Mai got this bizarre promotion, they went from cutthroats and pirates to handmaids and couriers, and it wasn't really too their liking. Sure, they got paid, but they wanted to go fight on the high seas, not..._this._ \n\nBut, they were loyal to Mama-sama, always. So they'd suck it up, and make the best of it. Thus, Junkō was more than pleasant when she went out to the entrance chamber of the embassy, where Karasu (the ronin forced into submission by Mai in the Leatherworker's Quarters) was waiting. \n\n\"An audience with the boss? Yeah, lemme run it by her real quick, honorable Samurai, if I could just get your names...\" With that info, she headed off inside to notify Mai. \n\nThe ambassador was actually just finishing with a meeting of sorts, with a very grateful merchant that was glad to know that his bandit problem would be dealt with on behalf of the Mantis. Whoever these river bandits were, they were in for a rude awakening. \"Well, that's that,\" Mai sighed. \"Get Karasu and some men together, Cyclops, have them scout the mouth of the river for these thugs. And now that we're done with business, I think I'll go see my daught-\"\n\n\"Yo, Mama Mai!\" \n\nMai was not amused, and glared at Junkō when she announced her presence. \"We've been over this. Moshi. Sama. In. The. Embassy.\" \n\n\"Oh, sorry, Boss-er, Moshi-sama. But, there's two Unicorn here to see you.\"\n\n\"Is it Utaku Masanori-sama?\" Chiyoko asked. \n\n\"No, it's a Shinjo Temujin and a Moto Shadee. Oh, and I think Yoritomo Okiku-sama is wanting to see you as well, boss.\" \n\n\"Well, hm.\" Mai mulled it over, but shrugged her shoulders. \"Fine, bring all three of them in. Might be about the bazaar, or another business deal. Better to have another Mantis with negotiation power would be nice.\" \n\nAnd thus, Junkō called upon Yoritomo Okiku, Shinjo Temujin, and Moto Shadee, expressing that the ambassador would see all of them. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku lifted a brow, curious that she was being summoned with the two strangers. Regardless she gave a nod to the attendent and stepped after them, quiet as she may, towards the chamber beyond.\n\nShe paused at the doorway to allow the Unicorn to step in ahead of her, offering them a small bow in greeting as she waited for them to pass."
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin returned any bows offered to him at an appropriate level; if nothing else, the chance to meet new people often interested him. And the less polished these Mantis were, the more interesting he found them. If only because he felt a certain kinship, being a warrior assigned to diplomacy.\n\nHe entered with Moto Shadee, content to follow the guidance of the servants while taking notes of the embassy's design and layout. And in true Mantis style, it was a mix of the opulent and the informal.\n\n*Haven't seen furniture like this since the Isles of Spice and Silk.*\n\n\"Well, Moto-san,\" The lean bushi said aside to his dusky-skinned colleague as they entered the premises, \"Seems we're one foot in. Let's hope we're not out of our depth.\"\n\nHe chuckled to himself, but stopped.\n\n\"Uh. Because of... Well... You know, since they... Never mind.\"\n\nTemujin grimaced inwardly at his own attempt at 'humour' to lighten the mood; he wasn't averse to playing the fool to break the ice, but that was appalling even by his standards.\n\n||\n\nAs they were led in, he noted the other Mantis making way for them with a small bow. Temujin made sure to return it politely, wondering about how this samurai served her ambassador.\n\nOnce he was shown in, the stark contrast between the Yoritomo and Moshi-sama stood out to him. Subdued grace on the one hand, voluminous personality on the other. \n\nHe knew of the Mantis' own seafaring ways, and had seen many examples of their mixed heritage. But to see a samurai with her complexion in this city who wasn't a Unicorn was still a small surprise.\n\n*Well. At least I know she's facing samurai with skin like hers. If not darker.*\n\nThe Shinjo allowed the servant to introduce the new arrivals, bowing respectfully before the Rubenesque woman. She may not have seemed like one for protocol, but it always paid to show that you made an effort.\n\n\"Lady Sun's blessings upon you, Moshi-sama,\" He began with his head lowered. As Temujin rose again, he drew up his countenance, his expression calm and his eyes focused, adding \"Thank you for graciously meeting with us.\"\n\nMoshi Mai would certainly note that while his posture and manners were correct and his movements practiced, there was a certain fluidity Temujin tried to bind when he wasn't in motion. He moved and carried himself like a scout first, in contrast to Kenza's serene grace.\n\nAfter any initial greetings the Mantis returned, the scout reached into his diplomatic pack and drew something out, wrapped in rich violet cloth ||which swaddled a sealed waterskin, the airag within sloshing from the movement|| which he would offer thrice.\n\n\"We would also like to offer you a humble gift, in honour of this meeting and as thanks for the hospitality you showed our clanmate, Ide-san.\"\n\n*Humble indeed. But maybe the best from our kitchen's a better offering than the strongest from Khanbulak.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai gave a proper bow to the incoming Unicorn, and a more familiar and friendly nod to Yoritomo Okiku, and offered them all a seat. \"You Unicorn must either be bored witless in your residency or want to see the burly beauty of the Mantis, for I have had nothing but Shinjo's chosen coming through my halls as of late! Come, sit. Mina! Get our guests tea!\" \n\nMina, who still had a slight limp from her broken leg from months ago, hurried off to fetch the tea. In the meantime, Chiyoko eyeballed the lot, taking notice of their weaponry and demeanor. Nothing seemed to be of worry, as long as they placed their arms in daisho stands or laid them on their left sides, as was custom. \n\nMai refused the gift twice before 'giving in' and taking a good look at the waterskin, and took a moment to sample the contents. \"Hm! Airag, is it not? My yojimbo's taken a liking to this odd spirit, but I think I'll keep this one all to myself.\" She glanced at the ronin that tried not to look at anyone, lest more questions come. \n\n\"Now,\" Mai said once the tea arrived, \"I'm sure you're not here to shower me with gifts and gifts alone. What can the Mantis do for you?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "verdi154",
"message": "*Shadee's response was rather reserved, as she wasn't exactly sure what her duties here would entail. Regardless, she gave Temujin a polite smile at his bad joke. It was an adorable thing to do, so she wouldn't give him a hard time over it. It was like a child attempting humour towards an adult. Poorly communicated, but otherwise just fine.*\n*As for Moshi-sama... Well, she was a sight to behold for sure. Was she really a Mantis? What a strange circumstance for her to... Well, to live. It wasn't something impossible, but still rather unlikely in light of how the clans often acted towards Gaijin. Thus, the one-armed Shadee just gave a polite bow in the way of greeting and tried to integrate into the conversation at least a little bit:* \"Greetings Moshi-sama. I believe Temujin-san will know more about the details, but I have been requested as a champion. I seek to fulfill this role to the best of my abilities. Unarmed combat is my forte after all.\" *, she gave a soft smile once more, then relaxed, waiting for the actual goal to be stated by her companion.*"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin was a little more relieved that Shadee at least didn't detest his jest, deliberately terrible but beyond his expectation. In the course of his duties, he only knew she was a martially-inclined Clanmate, and uncertain of whether she was on the wild or dour side of Motos he had come to know.\n\nAs Moshi Mai gave the Unicorns an exceptionally gregarious greeting, the Shinjo couldn't help but smile as he set aside his daisho, placing it on the stands. The more curved scimitar still looked a little off, but he'd seen this several times before.\n\n*I was told she was friendly. But this is a whole other level. City of Stories indeed.*\n\n\"A treat, to be sure, though airag's also good for sharing, Moshi-sama. Whether with someone with a taste for it,\" He quipped with a smaller bow, \"Or to *See* If someone has a taste for it.\"\n\nTemujin received the tea with a grateful bow, making sure to address Mina respectfully by name. He did offer to help serve it, though he fully expected to be rebuffed by the heimin. Shadee was quick to establish the point of their visit while he took a small sip of the fragrant tea, accounting for its heat.\n\n\"That's right, Moshi-sama,\" He said, letting go of some of his prior practiced formality, though still speaking respectfully without staring. One corner of his mouth rose in a wry smirk. \"And as we've charged to the point, I'll speak like a Unicorn and not a courtier. Never was that good at the whole 'five messages in one sentence, none of them the point' thing anyway.\"\n\nTemujin set his teacup down. He faced Mai and sat upright, though there was a limber ease in his limbs, compared to the rigidity of the two elder Utaku siblings in the city.\n\n\"We're here with a proposal, Moshi-sama. It involves the pleasure barge the Mantis have been preparing.\"\n\nHe looked about the room from Mai to Okiku, as much to keep his gaze moving across the participants as to take notes of the room's layout and the Mantis' peculiarities.\n\n\"Would you be open to hosting a centre for martial entertainment on board the vessel with us? A place for warriors wishing to test themselves, crowds gathered to see them, and coin flowing among them. Hosted by you, though we would aid in administering it.\"\n\n*Little odd speaking of commerce plainly. But it's not really dirty, and it's what we share with the Mantis.*\n\nHe paused the merchant's pitch there, having it support Shadee's own statement and giving context for her potential involvement. His gaze fell back upon the statuesque woman to mark his focus on the topic, and his own expression was a mix of curious anticipation as he awaited her response.\n\n*Pace yourself and your details. Don't overdo it, but save it for if she shows interest. The tempo of diplomacy is not unlike a duel, even with a genuinely friendly meeting.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "It would be ridiculous to say that Mai hadn't noticed the woman called Moto Shadee only had one arm. Out of politeness and overall compassion, she didn't draw attention to it, or stare at it, either. Despite the missing appendage, the woman was strong-looking, and carried herself like any fighter would. \n\nBut, when Shadee spoke of being a champion and an expert in unarmed combat, it made the shugenja's eyebrow raise. She must be missing something here. \n\nLuckily, Shinjo Temujin helped to fill in the blanks. \"Ah, I see.\" So, they wanted Moshi Mai to host a fighting arena on the ship, with the Unicorn running the day-to-day. The Mantis already planned on having fights and the like on the ship as it was, so the idea was sound. And indeed, it would bring in some more wealth. But did she want Unicorn on her ship, possibly poking around? \n\n\"An interesting concept,\" Mai said, rubbing her chin, \"But, and don't take it too badly, but what do I need you lot for? And with your wealth, I'm surprised you'd need a venue to host your own.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin's mind raced in response to Moshi Mai's points, drawing on both the policies of his Clan and his experiences in service. He was too focused to remember to doubt himself.\n\n\"Fair questions, Moshi-sama.\" Temujin said as he set his tea down in front of him. \"I'm no Ide no Suio Kenza, but I'll do my best to answer.\"\n\nThe long-haired Unicorn sat upright, calling upon his cultivated composure which saw him through roundabout schemes and heated arguments. He was no Ide, but he *Had* Learned from and served one.\n\n*Profit wasn't the issue she raised. Hold off on that for now.*\n\n\"Of course either of our Clans has the knowhow and wealth to do this alone. But why bear the burden by ourselves when we can help each other?\"\n\nHe leaned forward a little to show intent and deliberation, his head turning to the other samurai in turn. Hopefully the gesture, besides avoiding an impudent stare, subtly involved all present to hint at cooperation.\n\n\"Together, this venture has more to work with. We benefit from one of the finest venues in this city, and you benefit from a main attraction without diverting your own fighters or sending for one. We'd also schedule Moto-san's fights; saves you the trouble of having to run them.\"\n\nHe wasn't sure if that would resonate with her; did she *Like* Counting koku and organising schedules, or find them stifling?\n\n\"And of course,\" He added as he leaned back, one hand gesturing to the ambassador, \"It would be a partnership that both of us can trust. Ide-san's report gladdened us; we simply wish to take this opportunity to deepen our Clans' friendship. Seize the moment, as it were.\"\n\nWith that, Temujin sat back, dipping his head in a humble bow for her patience.\n\nHe knew, of course, that *Trust* And *Friendship* Were often empty terms thrown around to make one's cause look attractive. But he hoped that Moshi Mai would pick up on the sincerity behind his words.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku had remained silent thoughout the exchange. It was not her place to intervene or comment unless it was requested of her. She had her own schemes for the Mantis' new endeavour, though they still had to meet with the Moshi's approval.\n\nShe was not a warrior, not in the physical sense anyways, so the combat arena itself had little appeal to her... Beyond the periphery. A slight smile touched her painted lips as ideas began to formulate in her mind. She had begun to view the Unicorn's proposal with more interest."
},
{
"author": "verdi154",
"message": "*As for Shadee, well, she also held her tongue. She wasn't terribly skilled at speaking and was hoping that her display during the embassy meeting had at least dispelled doubts about her combat prowess. Overall, she was an expert in her field, with sufficient renown to be considered for a dojo instructor... So, if nothing else, it would not be easy to find somebody to perform her role better than herself.*\n*That being said, the Mantis were well connected... They likely had options to that extent. How good these options were, was left to be seen though.*"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I would argue that I don't need the help, but the Unicorn need the venue.\" Moshi Mai wasn't angry, just negotiating. She _hated_ negotiations, but she could still strike a deal when necessary. \"I won't insult Moto-san with noting that I have never heard of her, nor seen her in action. I may so be inclined to spar with her myself, and see what she's made of! But, you had other points, yes?\"\n\nIndeed there was more there. Camaderie, friendship, things of that nature. It was curious why they were coming to the lowly Mantis instead of the Crane. Very curious. \n\n\"You're right, I can trust Ide Kenza-san. He's a man that I can respect for his honesty and his extension of friendship. But I can also fear that I've given a cat some fish, and now it and its kittens have come for more.\" She sipped some tea, and took up her pipe, which she methodically packed with tobacco. \"Tell me, good Unicorn, why are you not seeking this from the Crane? Surely they have funds aplenty and venues worth utilizing. I understand establishing friendship, which I will be blunt: I approve of it, wholeheartedly. But I still have to be curious: Why would you come to us, whom your Crane friends despise so much? Or... Could that friendship be less sturdy than I've imagined?\"\n\nThe look in Mai's eye was of curiosity and enthusiasm. She may just get some news she was hoping to hear. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The offer to Shadee was interesting. Temujin kept his composure, though inwardly, he couldn't help but think: *And here we are trying to avoid mentioning them. Truly, no plan survives contact with the field.*\n\nStill, he allowed himself a good-natured chuckle at Moshi-sama's analogy; despite or because of the back-and-forth, he found himself liking this ambassador. Though he had to take care not to expose any big news or vulnerabilities. Such gossip spread like wildfire.\n\n*We may be having a rough patch, but careful, Temujin. Don't rock the boat, but test the waters first and oh, by Shinjo's plump derriere, I'm starting to think in sailing metaphors.*\n\n\"We *Are* Allied with the children of Doji,\" He began carefully, \"But while we share effort for shared goals, there is room to act on our own. We aren't joined at the hip, after all.\"\n\nThe Shinjo took his cup and paused to take a sip and gather his thoughts. Its fragrance certainly helped to sharpen his mind.\n\n*Could mention their Scorpion 'allies'. She might like the balls on calling her bluff. But it's tricky enough balancing three Clans without tossing in a fourth.*\n\nHe set the tea cup down, looking the tanned Moshi in the eye for a moment.\n\n\"Besides. You don't give a Doji a tetsubo and tell them to man the Wall.\"\n\nA half-second was given to let that line sink in. He'd never have said such to a more formal Clan, but he was taking the risk here with this large woman.\n\n\"Our honoured allies have many talents. But to host a martial venue in the City of Lies? I think not; they are masterful hosts, but this isn't a Winter Court they can plan down to the serving trays.\"\n\n*And for the love of the Kami, you dunderhead, DO NOT insinuate that they're more appropriate because they're like the city!*\n\nFinally, he bowed slightly.\n\n\"No, for something like this, we feel that would require boldness, adaptability, and a good sense for commerce. And we can think of none better than the Mantis, who can navigate any storm.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "verdi154",
"message": "*Shadeee followed the conversation with mild concern... But also a smile adorning her features. The matter of a practise match was definitely one she'd enjoy getting back to, but for now... Well, for now it would be better to just give a sweet confirmation:* \"If you'd enjoy that Moshi-sama, I would happily spar with you.\" *, she gave a gentle bow even as a fierce glint stole itself into her eyes. Combat was something she could thrive and enjoy herself in. She much preferred it to the civil affairs of court.*\n\n*Alas, it seemed as if Shinjo had things well in hand, as he deftly manouvered around the lyrical trip-wires and verbouse landmines. One way or another... Things seemed quite fine, so far. With that, Shadee kept quiet and let the smarter people do the talking.*"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "A sigh left Moshi Mai, and she took a long draw on her pipe. \"Spoken like a true courtier, Shinjo-san,\" She replied. \"Just when I was really starting to like you, too.\" She exhaled, and still smiled. \"Oh well. It's fine, and a proper answer to give. When it comes to gossip, I'm still a pirate, and I love to take it all up, hm!\" She wasn't all that miffed about it, but was hoping to get some juicy dirt. But it was fine; she had other ways to get info on the Crane. \n\nWhen Shadee made her comment, though, Mai perked right back up. \"Oh? A challenge accepted, then?\" She sized up Shadee again, nothing but approval on her face. \"You, young woman, are free to spar with me when you please. I feel like it would be a right good time for all.\" She glanced back at Shinjo. \"You should thank your friend for peaking my interest, Shinjo-san.\" \n\nWith all that said, there was still more to entertain. Costs, rules, regulations, how this would work with the Mantis' other plans. \"Well, you've given me a proposal, you've flattered my clan, me personally, and offered to fight me. Honestly, I love all of these things, very much.\" She looked over to Yoritomo Okiku, and nodded at her. \"Yoritmo-san, you've been quiet. Let's hear the thoughts of someone that's not as thirsty for a fight as I am, yes? Speak candidly, if you would. Our Unicorn friends aren't afraid of blunt speaking, I'm sure.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku considered for a moment, having listened to the conversation and interactions between the gathered samurai. She pursed her painted lips when she was addressed.\n\n*\"I am intrigued by the notion of sparring matches,\"* She said, weighing her words carefully. Her tone was soft, little more than a whisper. *\"This concept has piqued my interest — though not the combat display itself, but the effects that could be drawn from such displays of skill and talent, particularly as to the outcomes of said bouts.\"*\n\nOkiku offers a slight smile. *\"However I would not wish to presume too much; nor put our esteemed guests on the spot with the ideas that could be considered... Less than appropriate in formal company.\"*"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "*Goodness.* That's *Speaking like a courtier to her?*\n\nHis thoughts raced like Tatsumaki at full gallop.\n\n*Disappointed? Satisfied? Very interesting. She loves open speech. But she could also use that to coax me into saying more. Baiting the hook with the promise of speaking plainly safely, and a prick at my bushi's pride. Moshi-sama drives a hard bargain.*\n\n\"I served a great one,\" He replied with gentle humour, \"So my thanks for the compliment, Moshi-sama.\"\n\n*Gossip, she said. Now's not the time to mention the Scorpion. But keep that word in mind if the moment comes.*\n\nHer positive response to Shadee's challenge was an unexpected development, but he saw the opportunity. In the brief window that she turned to consult the other Mantis, he faced the tall Moto pugilist with a level gaze.\n\n\"You're our champion.\" Temujin said quietly. \"I'll trust you to set your terms, and help if you need.\"\n\nThe offer was sincere and understated; Shadee would find his blue eyes held trust in her prowess and her choices.\n\n*No need to insult her by telling her how to do her job, or to avoid grievous injury to either of them.*\n||\n\nTemujin faced the Mantis again and nodded at Okiku's careful insights... As well as her politely-worded hint at *Outcomes*. They were making progress.\n\n*Follow up. But not so bluntly as to call it a gambling den.*\n\n\"You honour us, Yoritomo-san. And it's true: contests are as much about the watchers as the contestants.\"\n\nThe Unicorn smirked knowingly.\n\n\"I've been to enough of them to know how spectators like to *Test their insight*. Though I am sure your pleasure barge's entertainment will be livelier than a court's.\n\n\"And if we are all willing,\" He added, turning between the three ladies, \"We would be glad to let you...*Sample the goods*, as it were.\"\n\nCheeky phrasing, even if he was certain she'd heard and said bawdier. But a risk to show they were prepared to rise and meet their audacity.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Okiku made some valid points. There was a lot more money to be made than simply adding charge for admission, a lot more, indeed. It was something that Mai hadn't considered, since they hadn't intended on incorporating gambling, since there was much more messiness that came with it. But if it was all on fights, there was less fuss to worry about. \n\n\"Excellent point, Yoritomo-san,\" She praised, \"And a lucrative one, at that. While greed is a sin against the Kami, money can fix many problems, mend relationships, and forge new ones, as well. ..\"\n\nFor a moment, she thought, fighting past the self-doubt. \n\n\"If we were to agree,\" She started, \"You would be allowed free admission to the ship as necessary for the bouts, meeting with staff, and directing servants for whatever you may need. These fights will all be unarmed bouts, so no weaponry will be allowed as per the rules of the ship as-is. I will extend trust in your abilities to find and deliver grand fighters to contend, and will provide a few of my own that might be interested, and Moto Shadee will be our first champion of our joint fighting ring. \n\n\"On the side of commodities, food and drink are on us, within reason, of course, as well as rooming if needed. Our servants know the ship best and have strong sea legs, so they will be provided to assist you. No offense against your own, but I've seen a Unicorn on a ship before. Very messy, I'm afraid.\n\n\" As for the money... We split gambling and admission proceeds from the fights down the middle, with a venue and administration percentage in the Mantis favor. Normally it would be in the range of 75/25, but since I like you lot and wish to make our friendship bloom, how about 60/40, our favor? You still make a nice sum of money, and all you have to do is show up, fight, and take the money from the masses.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin listened to the terms calmly, though he grimace-smirked inwardly at the mention of Unicorns on boat; that was something he wholeheartedly agreed on.\n\n*The goals were clear enough. Get a presence on the boat, improve our ties, and see if we can make a profit. But do we push for more? Or offer concessions?*\n\nHe was, indeed, no merchant or deal broker. But he had experience to go on: matters of security, provisions, and definitions of their involvement. These he knew from serving Ide-sama.\n\n\"To be honest, those terms of access seem fair to me as you'll be our hosts, Moshi-sama,\" Temujin replied agreeably, turning to Shadee and adding \"Though if you have any thoughts or suggestions, feel free to voice them, Moto-san. You would be a better judge of your bouts and accommodations.\"\n\nHe was prepared to respond more fully to the terms. But as the one who'd be fighting on their behalf, it was only right that Shadee have an equal say in this.\n\nHowever, understanding that she was the sort who preferred to speak through actions rather than negotiations, Temujin did proceed and take the lead. He would, however, pause if she had something to add.\n||\n\nThe Shinjo turned to the ambassador, one hand rubbing his chin in thought. He spoke carefully, but his tempo grew more certain as the terms fell into place.\n\n*The Clan wants a presence. Moshi-sama fears the cat has brought kittens. Adapt to this.*\n\n\"Your provisions are most appreciated. Likewise, we will not impose overmuch; whatever bouts we schedule, we will first run by you by messenger, and only proceed with your approval. Right now, it's just Moto-san, but we will work to provide others in due time.\n\n\"Should they stay aboard or enter your ship outside the agreed upon times, be it by invitation or injury, we will compensate you for anything used to care for them. And of course, it's your boat, so your word is law; we will respect that.\"\n\nAn open-ended acknowledgement. But it showed respect for their hosts. When considering the profits, though, Temujin slowed to a pause, attempting to mask it with another thoughtful sip of tea.\n\n*Definitely not familiar terrain to me. But it seems Moshi-sama is offering what we would have, if not more; she has the initiative of being generous.*\n\nHe set the cup down, his breathing even. He wondered privately if this was a merchant tactic, using the first offer to sweeten the second. But rather than dwell on things he didn't know, he looked between the Mantis with good-natured trust.\n\n*It's a good amount. And it comes from our cooperation. Profits are good; the gesture is better.*\n\n\"Then it seems we are of one mind. It's only right that our hosts receive the greater share.\" \n\n*I was prepared for lower, but now's not the time for excess humility; that can seem like desperation. She's friendly, but also looking for blood in the water.*\n\n\"It will be my pleasure to take you up on that offer, and report your goodwill to our superiors.\" He then finally smirked openly, adding \"And hopefully next time, we'll have more potent airag to gift to you, Moshi-sama.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I'm glad you see things our way.\" \n\nMoshi Mai smiled cheerfully, and clapped her hands together. \"Well! It would seem we have come to an agreement, at least for now. I will have Yoritomo Okiku-san arrange the paperwork so we may have the terms clear and written. I sense no trickery, and would never do so myself, but it's best to trust, but confirm, you see.\" \n\nThis was a fine deal, even if the split wasn't what Mai would've wanted. Well, would've wanted from a _stranger._ The Unicorn had come forward and tried to fix things. The Moshi appreciated that, more than one might think. The Scorpion on the other hand... Well, they weren't exactly coming out of the woodwork to regain trust. Hopefully a later mission would fix that. \n\nFor now, though, the Mantis were working on something else. Profits. Security. And slowly but surely funding their ventures. Whoever took the city, there would be plenty of lucrative businesses under Mantis control. That was all that mattered. \n\n\"Be sure to do so,\" Mai replied with a chuckle, \"And in exchange..\" She called for a servant, who hurried over swiftly. \"Fetch me a bottle of the spiced wine. You know, from the last raid before I arrived.\" Mai looked back to the two Unicorn, and brushed away any concern the words might've meant. \"Don't fret, you two: The only ships the Mantis raid now are Gaijin vessels. And I'll tell you, the Mereneans make an amazing wine. Take a bottle each. A sign of goodwill.\" \n\nWith that, Mai reached over the table somewhat, hand outstretched. \"As your Clan does, shall we shake on it?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "equestriati",
"message": "Okiku bowed her head when she mentioned. She gave a simple nod that she understood what was required of her.\n\n*\"I will have the paperwork drawn up in short order and sent to all participating parties,\"* She said with her soft tone.\n\nShe had little else to add to the conversation, at least at the moment, so quieted down once more and allowed the discussion to continue without further interuption."
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Temujin nodded to the two Mantis as the final terms were hashed out, keeping himself from sighing in relief. When the foreign wine was presented, he smiled broadly and received it graciously after the customary two refusals.\n\n\"We know a thing or two about exotic tastes, Moshi-sama. We'll be sure to savour these properly.\"\n\nFinally, Mai reached out in the gesture used by the Unicorns. The scout had certainly heard the Mantis, or at least Moshi-sama, were more open to that sort of thing, but it still surprised him to see it.\n\n*We've got our own goals, of course. But it's good that we're meeting each other halfway. Hopefully.*\n\nNevertheless, the Shinjo accepted the gesture heartily with a firm grasp and quick shake. Honestly, the captain's grip was stronger than he expected even with her appearance, though he maintained a proper expression. He withdrew after the handshake, bowing deeply where he sat, and raised a cup of tea in an acknowledging toast.\n\n\"Our thanks, Moshi-sama. Yoritomo-san. And here's to a most prosperous friendship; it'd be my honour to keep enjoying your excellent hospitality.\"\n\nWith that, the tanned scout would finish up their tea and reception properly, accepting the Mantis' guidance and timing for when it was time to collect their arms and depart. Temujin, his task now on the verge of completion, would offer respectful but friendly conversation, easing up a little more now that the agreement would be put to paper.\n\nInwardly, he was taking notes. What she asked. What her concerns were. How she spoke. What they would need to provide. Repeating them mentally while they were still fresh.\n\n*A good first step. Let's hope it leads to more.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "verdi154",
"message": "*Shadee kept up with the conversation to the best of her abilities, though with the negotiations being outside her area of expertise all she could really do was provide some semblance of representation of the physical aspect... That being said, she'd been kind of out of the loop up until the end. But what was important was that things had gone over rather uneventfully and successfully.*\n\n*Well and gaijin wine was usually a good thing to have too...*\n\n*With that said, she just followed through and went through the motions alongside Temujin-san... And took her leave in all good form, when the time had come. Best not to flaunt anything too much during these moments. She'd have to keep track of these things properly...*"
}
] | 331 | 7,788 |
335.095238 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Apologies for disrupting you, Moshi Kana-sama.\"\n\nThe ashigaru spoke politely but was obviously not in the mood to do so, judging by his body language and his sour expression. But, he showed enough respect. _Just enough._ \n\nHe had requested Kana follow him out to the entrance, and was adamant in her accompanying. \n\n\"I would not dare to disrespect you or Moshi Mai-sama,\" He continued, \"But I will risk dishonor to say that you have to do something about... Her.\"\n\n\"Her\" Was Aki, who came into view as she tried to shake another guard, who grabbed her around the waist. She looked much better now that she was cleaned up, her brown hair no longer tarnished with mud and soot and her tan skin no longer pallid from malnutrition. Her eyes were fiery as she scowled and tried to rip out of the guard's arms, a burglar's bundle lying on the floor full of expensive decorations... Some of which were Mai-sama's. \n\n\"Let me go! I don't want to stay here with you bastards!\"\n\n\"Silence, brat!\" The guard finally got Aki pinned against the wall, in enough pain to make resistance unlikely.\n\n\"Moshi-sama,\" The apprehending guard panted, \"Something must be done. This is the fourth time since she's arrived! And she's stolen from the ambassador. If Mama Mai found out, she'd be more than cross!\"\n\n\"Fine, let her be mad! Just let me go!\" Aki wrestled a little, clearly frustrated. \"Fire kami, hear-\"\n\nThat time the guard actually administered a strike, chopping her in the throat to stifle her spell. Aki wheezed and coughed, and finally relented. \n\n\"As you see, she's making trouble. Moshi Kana-sama. Please, tend to your ward.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana popped her head up from her desk at the arrival of the Ashigaru, all smiles as usual until she got a look at his expression. She would of course immediately followed him out to the embassy's entryway... And immediately let out a sigh of exasperation.\n\n\"Kuso... Fortunes preserve me...\"\n\nKana shook her head at the stolen goods, and then winced at the strike; the last thing she wanted was to recreate the conditions that she had endured when she was living under the thumb of the bandits, but if the girl was going so far as to try to invoke fire kami in the embassy, then frankly any measure taken to stop it was justified.\n\nShe bowed as lowly as she could manage to the Ashigaru. \"My deepest apologies. I will see to her correction immediately.\" With that, she moved to grab onto Aki, hoisting her over her shoulder as though she were a sack of vegetables. \"If you could have the stolen goods taken to my office for the time being, that would be most appreciated! \"\n\nWith that, she started to carry Aki over to the garden where Amaterasu's shrine was in the embassy. \"Now now, Aki-san. If you didn't want to stay with us bastards, you should have killed me when you had the chance! But you didn't, so I suppose we're stuck with each other, ne?\"\n\nOnce she had arrived, she paused, standing still where she was for a moment. \"So, Aki-san, do I have your word, in front of Lady Sun herself and your kami friends that you're not going to try to run if I set you down?\" There was a hint of playfulness in her tone, and an attempt to use that to perhaps disarm Aki, though the firmness of her grip would also remind Aki that even with her injury, Kana was more than capable of picking her right back up again.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Aki fought and struggled in the wounded Shugenja's grasp, but she couldn't quite shake her. Damn, she was stronger than she looked! Though, it should've been obvious since she had _killed_ people in the caves and all. All the same, Aki tried to shake free, slapping Kana's back in a feeble way. \n\n\"Grr! Lemme go! I don't want to be a Moshi!\" She continued to try and break loose, until they reached the back garden. Her arms went limp as she gave up, a huff leaving her. Damn this strong woman and her stupid muscles. So, when she was teased and insulted with that stupid, sing-song voice, Aki relented. \n\n\"Fine. I won't run away this time around.\" And so, she'd be set down to cross her arms and pout. \"I already said I didn't want to be here,\" She said, \"And I don't want to be a Moshi. I was fine being just Aki, you know.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Thank you, just Aki,\" She replied, bowing towards her before moving to kneel down on the ground across from her. \"Yes, I do know you said you didn't want to be here. You make sure you remind me of that very often. If I may ask though, why? Do you miss being chained up? Would you prefer if we made you eat your food from a bowl on the ground like before?\" Kana's questioning was somewhat pointed, serving to remind the girl just how things had been when she had been discovered in the cave, though she did soften her approach somewhat moving forward. \n\n\"I'm your guardian, so if there's something you feel like you're lacking here, then tell me. Want more food? Different food? I can make that happen. \"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Aki got smaller and smaller as Kana demeaned her into submission. She groveled and averted her gaze as she was reminded of her awful life. \"Y-ou don't think I don't know how bad it was? I know, I didn't realize that they were the ones that killed my... Well, that doesn't matter. It was all I knew. All I knew was that life. And now...\" \n\nThe girl fidgeted with her hands, as she tried to find the words to her thoughts. \"I haven't even had a chance to be _free.\"_ She looked at Kana, frows furrowed. \"You came along and killed my whole life, bad as it was, and threw me into this one. I have to learn your ways, and learn to read and write better, and all this etiquette stuff, and about a family that means as little to me as I to it, and then, after all that, I'm going to the _Wall._ To go fight monsters and zombies and...\" \n\nSurely, at this moment, Kana would see what the issue was. The girl wasn't running away because she hated it her. She was running because she was overwhelmed. \n\n\"D-did you look forward to this as a child? This is awful... I don't even know who I am and I already have my entire life settled for me... This is just... Chains by some stupid deal, instead of iron!\" Aki crossed her arms, deflating slightly. \"And worst yet, I'm stuck with some bald lady that keeps pretending she cares about me. I'm sure once you're able to get rid of me, you will.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was silent, listening intently to the girl speak. She felt a pang of guilt at how pointed she had been at reminding the girl of what things had been like under the bandits, even if her behavior did merit a harsher response. She tried not to dwell on that point too much, however. Instead she tried to take in the full of what she was being told.\n\nWhat really stood out to her, though, was the talk of freedom.\n\nWhat even *Was* Freedom when one's life was their duty? To be expected to fulfill their education for the clan, to serve another at their request... It was certainly a normal life for many Samurai. Such responsibility did come with privilege, of course, but the life was one of service before all else. The standard she was being held to was no different than any other child in a Samurai family, and to have such an opportunity was a blessing.\n\n*And yet...*\n\nKana couldn't push thoughts of her own childhood out of her mind. Yes, she still had responsibilities, and an education. She was expected to hone both body and mind as she grew up, and had to train and study both. She still had the opportunity to *Be* A child, however. She had carefree moments where she could eat dango until she got a tummyache, go exploring and come back home filthy, read trashy romance stories, and play games with other children. Even now, she still had a chance to have dinner with Temujin, talk with Mai over sake, and read, well, more grown up trashy romance stories.\n\nAki had no such moments as far as Kana knew. At least not in a long time. Being reminded of that forced the Shugenja to humble herself, somewhat, even as the girl directed her ire towards her. Given everything though, who could blame her?\n\n\"There is... Much in life that is set out for us. By the heavens, by our lords, and sometimes just be circumstance. Being born a Moshi and being able to speak to the kami meant my life would always head in a specific direction. The Moshi being part of the Mantis clean steered my path further. Certain aptitudes and gifts the heavens saw fit to bestow on me meant that I would always be directed to a certain path. The heavens, the kami... They do see fit to bestow the burden of duty upon us.\"\n\nShe met Aki's gaze. \"Yet you're right. There is more than just the burden of duty. There are moments of joy, moments of relaxation, moments of well... Like you said. *Freedom.* I was so concerned with helping to set you on the right path, and to give you the chance, that perhaps I have forgotten that so many of those moments were stolen from you.\" She then bowed her head. \"I am sorry. If there was a prayer I could offer the kami that would give you those carefree times back, I would speak it so loudly Lady Sun herself could hear.\"\n\nShe lifted her head. \"What I can do, though, even if I am just some bald lady,\" She jested, \"Is give you the opportunity for some such moments. Your training and education is important, but even the mightiest Samurai needs those freedoms and moments joy. Perhaps you can tell me, Aki-san, what *You* Would like to do.\"\n\nShe then held up a finger. \"However. That does not extend to stealing Mama M- I mean, Moshi-sama's decorations.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Aki groveled as she was given her scolding and lesson, but ultimately she understood. Kana was... Well, as much as she wanted to think her scary and cruel and evil, she really wasn't. She was gentle, and patient; not once had she raised a hand against the peasant shugenja. That made it even harder to act so indignantly. \n\n\"... Fishing.\" \n\nIt came out a mumble, before the girl repeated herself. \"I like fishing, since you don't have to do anything but sit and wait and relax and all. _And_ you get food if you do it right. I know, it's stupid, but I liked to go fishing when my family was alive and when the bandits let me by the river.\" The girl was red with embarrassment at her confession, and crossed her arms. \n\n\"And... Sorry for making a fuss with Moshi Mai-sama's stuff. For what it's worth, it was a big pain! This giant centipede tried to bite me when I did, but I just got the air kami to blow it out the window! Might wanna tell your servants to clean up more if there's _bugs_ all over!\"\n\nNow, Aki had not been paying attention in her courses, or she'd known that Centipedes were the mark of the Moshi family. And she would know that the centipede she flung out the window was Muka-chan, Moshi Mai's prized giant centipede. And she would not be standing there so casually about that."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana smiled brightly. \"That doesn't sound stupid at all, Aki-san. We all need a chance to relax, after all. I'm not much of a fisher myself, but perhaps I could learn a bit from you, even. Is there a spot you'd like to try at? I'm certain we could find someplace a bit quieter than the wharves if you so wished.\"\n\nKana slowly got to her feet, for a moment only porocessing the first little bit of what Aki had to say about it. \"Well, I am certain if we return Moshi-sama's possessions, we wi-\"\n\nIt was then she understood the full of what Aki had said. Her face grew pale, her body tensed up, and her eye began to twitch. Now, disrespecting a sign of her adoptive family was certainly regrettable, but right now there was a more pressing concern. A far, *Far* More immediate, potentially lethal concern that hung over the two of them.\n\n\"D-did you just say you blew Muka-chan out the window?! The symbol of our clan?! Mama Mai's beloved pet?! Do you realize what you've done?!\"\n\nShe stopped herself from going on, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath. Then another. Then a third.\n\n\"Aki-san, I would be honored to take you on a fishing trip, but that is contingent on our survival. And right now, our survival depends on finding that giant centipede. Now, quietly... Which window did you blow it out of?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Aki blinked, confused at the sudden disastrous look on Kana's face. \"Huh? Yeah, I sent it out the window. I actually got it out of there pretty quick! 'Air kami, get that bug outta here, please and thank you!' Not so bad, huh- Huh?\" The girl cocked and eyebrow as she realized what was going on. \"Wait, so that's... You mean that mean old lady keeps _bugs_ as PETS?!\"_ \n\nShe panicked as well, flabbergasted by the sudden realization. \"Wh-why would someone keep _bugs_ around?! Are you noble people crazy, centipedes are venomous!\" She pulled the ends of her hair as she circled around, trying to remember which window, and how hard the bug was launched. \"Uh, um... O-okay, so, I was in her office, and there was a window by the...\" \n\nAki hurried over to the side of the garden, and pointed to a window. \"That one! So Mooky-chan or whatever had to go...\" \n\nHer finger trailed over, pointed over towards... The way to the Crane Embassy. \"Yeah, over there. The Stork Clan, right? Crane, something like that. They're super nice I think? Well, we can just go talk to them and they'll let us poke around their garden, right?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was certain that things couldn't have gotten worse. After all, how could it? She had assaulted Mai's beloved pet with the wind Kami! At the very least it was just blown away, not set on fire or something of the sort.\n\nBut the Crane embassy?!\n\nIt was... Less terrible than it might have been at the start of spring, now that the two had become less hostile in the wake of the planned Unicorn alliance. But it was still amongst the worst possible destinations for the poor centipede. A visit to look for a lost pet was not exactly going to give a great impression, and that was *If* They managed to get in to begin with.\n\nShe took another deep breath before beginning to speak once more. She couldn't, however, stop her eye from twitching. \"The Crane are, well... They are polite, and there is a difference between being polite and being nice. Whether they let us in, well, that is another matter entirely, and one we will have to be *Very* Polite about asking for.\"\n\nShe took a moment to brush herself off. \"As for Centipedes, venomous or no, they are a symbol of the Moshi clan, and more importantly in this case, a cherished companion. One we have to get back if we have any hopes of that fishing trip. Are you prepared, Aki-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Aki felt smaller than ever when she saw Kana's eye twitching as it did. That couldn't be a good sign. The young shugenja nodded as she explained that the Crane might not be the nicest, but they might have a chance if they play their cards right. \n\n\"Well, I can be polite, probably! I'll just shut up and be polite, yeah? I can't be rude if I have my mouth shut, so it should be easy!\" She clenched her fist with determination, and looked to her ward with confidence. \"Alright, let's go get ourselves a bug!\" \n\n======\n\nThe Crane Embassy didn't seem all that busy that particular day, with not even the dojo making more than the occasional sound of metal on metal from time to time. It would seem they haven't been up to much, with the Crane being sent back to their respective provinces, possibly to prepare for summer as the war season kicked off. And that meant there was only a pair of guards out front of the embassy, chatting idly as they awaited their shift change. \n\n\"So, that's the stork embassy.\" Aki looked at it, hands on her hips. \"It's pretty big, _way_ bigger than the Mantis one. Oh no, did I get adopted into a poor clan?\" She didn't get a chance to inquire more, as the guards took notice of the Mantis. \"They're staring at us,\" Aki said, \"What do we do?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Crane, dear,\" Kana correctly softly, keeping her voice low, so as not to be heard. The other questions would have to wait until they finished their business here. Witht he guards taking notice of them, there was no real chance to discuss things further, either. Had the situation not been so urgent, there were things she might have been able to plan for, such as preparing a gift, or perhaps even an opportunity for Aki to learn more about the other clans in the city. Unfortunately, the possibility of an angry ambassador and the certainty of an angry giant centipede meant she only had time to grab a jar and head over.\n\nStepping forward, Kana bowed lowly to the Crane guards. \n\n\"Ah, good day to you, Crane-san,\" She began, adopting the most professional tone that she could manage. \"I am Moshi Kana, magistrate of the Mantis embassy. With me is my ward, Moshi Aki. I humbly beg your forgiveness for the interruption, but I was wondering if I might speak to someone regarding a visit to the embassy?\"\n\nAt this point, direct was probably the best approach.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Aki followed along with Kana up to the guards, doing her best to just stay quiet and not cause any more trouble. She hadn't had many interactions with samurai other than the Mantis so far, so there was no telling how it would go. \n\nCase in point, the guards at the gate were rather befuddled by the request from Kana. \"A visit to the embassy, Moshi-sama?\" One of the guards flicked his white hair before bringing his hand to his chin. \"Well, the majority of the samurai are quite busy at the moment,\" He lied (in reality, they would most likely not want to deal with Mantis, even if they were to become 'allies'), \"But, certainly we can find someone to assist you.\" \n\n\"It certainly depends on the kind of visit,\" Said the other guard, who _also_ flicked her white hair, \"Perhaps Doji Arami is available if it's culture and class that is the point of the visit. Or Doji Daiki for some notes on making a proper weapon.\" There was definitely some well-laid, carefully crafted sass in there, \"As proud retainers of the Crane Clan, we'd _love_ to make sure the Mantis can get educated on-\"\n\n\"Wow, these two are assholes, huh?\" \n\nAki looked up at Kana, having nudged her shoulder and spoken quite _audibly._ \"I thought the stork clan were supposed to be nice dandies, not a bunch of dickheads.\" \n\nThe two guards glared at the girl, not too pleased. \"How _dare-\"_\n\n\"EEEEEEEEEEEK!\" \n\nA sudden scream sounded off in the embassy, spurring the guards to draw swords and turn their attention with professional skill. \"What the?\" Even more suddenly, a few random things were tossed out the window, haphazardly: a wok, a ladle, and large pot. And finally, the source of the screaming was identified when a servant clearly screamed, \"CENTIPEDE! KILL IT KILL IT KILL IT!\" \n\nAki's ears burned red with embarrassment, and she looked at Kana with a clear need for direction. The guards abandoned their post to go investigate the screaming, so it was up to Kana to make a decision here."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"AKI! MIND YOUR FUCKING LANGUAGE!\" ||Disadvantage: Crude|| Kana chided her, in shock at how... Direct she had been with the Crane. She didn't want to think of the time she'd have to spend prostrated before them has they been full Samurai, or what she might be expected to do in way of correction for Aki had they been.\n\nOf course, the Crane's comments stopped Kana from getting too upset with Aki, and then there was the whole matter of poor Muka-chan's life being in danger. Just when Kana thought things could not have possibly gotten worse, the fortunes saw fit to hand her a shovel and command her to dig. The urgency of the situation was very much apparent to her, and her options of how to proceed ranged from terrible to slightly less terrible.\n\nFor the briefest of moments, she reflected on Bushido and its tenets, considering how that would guide her. Courage called for decisive action. Courtesy called for her to follow protocol and proceed cautiously with the crane. Sincerity called for her to at least *Try* To explain the situation. Compassion called for her to do right by Aki as best she could. Yet there was one that stood out in her mind right now.\n\n*Duty.*\n\nIt was the lot of a Samurai to give their life in service of others. Whether that meant the most extreme, literal example of dying for one's clan, lord, or Bushido itself, or other applications, such as devoting oneself to the advancement and enrichment of their family. Mai had been an honorable and worthy lord in the time Kana had known her; she gently guided her through her initial naivete rather than punish her when she had been overly trusting of others, called her sister, and did all she could to see that her desires could coexist with the good of the clan.\n\nShe then considered that if it became known this was Mai's pet, then *She* Would be forced to bear the consequences if it bit anyone.\n\nIt was perhaps this, then, that led Kana to decide to fall on the metaphorical blade.\n\n\"WAIT! I URGE YOU TO SPARE THE CENTIPEDE! IT IS THE SYMBOL OF THE MANTIS CLAN, AND THE BELOVED PET OF THE MANTIS MAGISTRATE! ME! I WILL SAFELY EXTRACT THE CENTIPEDE!\"\n\nWith that, she rushed in to the direction of the screaming.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The chaos that erupted over one centipede (of unusual size) was enough for Kana and Aki to run after the guards and head to the source of the commotion. And Kana's quick thinking to make her announcement would end up being a very wise decision. It may come to bite her in the ass, but for now, it gave the ashigaru pause when they reached the kitchens. \n\nOnce there, a rather comical scene was laid out. Three servants stood on the tables, armed with woks and cooking utensils and bowls, with quite the mess on the ground with spilled lunches and tea. They all seemed to be looking towards one sections of shelves, where the brunt of thrown utensils were piled around. \n\n\"Ah! Good, the guards!\" The older man looked panicked, and pointed at the shelf. \"The kaiju is under there! It's massive, it tried to kill my daughter!\"\n\n\"It's true, it's a wild, insane monster! No doubt it's dark magic!\" The girl sobbed, very dramatically. \n\nAnd then, the monster emerged. Muka-chan rolled out from under the shelf, with a big rat in her fangs. The servants recoiled at the sight of the large insect ending the rodent with venom and large mandibles, eating the vermin alive. One of the guards let out an 'eep!' and withdrew, waiting behind the nearest wall. Just to be safe, of course. \n\nAki, though, was rather unafraid. \"Hey, I didn't know they ate rats! That's pretty good, yeah?\" \nOne of the servants looked at the centipede, then to the young lady. \"I guess so... But, it's still dangerous!\" \n\nOne of the guards looked to Kana, warily. \"You said this was _your_ pet, right? Well, Moshi-sama, can you get it?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "*Kaiju?*\n\nKana knew Muka-chan was larger than the average centipede, but at this point it was taking all of her willpower to not comment to the Ashigaru about perhaps offering the Crane lessons in courage. Nevertheless, things were already a disaster, and she could humble herself to ensure that the disaster did not become that much worse. \n\nShe did feel a bit of sympathy for the poor rat; being devoured by a centipede was probably not the most pleasant way to go. Still, it offered an opportunity. \n\n\"Gladly, Crane-san,\" She replied evenly, opening up the jar she had brought.\n\nWhile the insect was distracted, she approached, and crouched down. She held the open and of the jar out towards Muka-chan, hoping that she might appreciate a little 'den' in which to finish her meal. In the meantime, she positioned the lid of the jar behind Muka, not sweeping her in just yet, but prepared to gently guide her in.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The ashigaru stepped aside and let Kana move in, carefully approaching with the jar. Muka-chan was much too busy, turning the rat into goop so she could eat them, so she didn't move or react as the jar approached. \n\nWhen it got behind her, however, she recoiled, raising up and hissing. Apparently she didn't want to go home. She looked ready to bolt. \n\nAki bit her lip; this was going to get worse, and it was all her fault. Unless...\n\n\"Air kami,\" She whispered, \"Please, can I have a little tiny help? Just help us get the Centipede in the jar, so nobody gets in trouble. Please?\"\n\nA very, _very_ light wind wafted through the kitchen, barely enough to do much of anything. But it _did_ whip enough to knock a single seed off of the cooking stations. A seed that hit Muka on the head. She panicked, and rushed into the nearest hidey-hole: The jar. \n\nThus, Muka-chan was caught. \n\n\"Oh, thank the ancestors,\" The cooks said, finally getting off the tables. \n\n\"Indeed, but there's still the question as to why the _Mantis_ let loose a Centiipede. Lost pet, I highly doubt.\"\n\n\"No! It's true!\" Aki stepped forward, hands clenched and pleading. \"Crane-samas or whatever, it's my fault! I'm a shugenja in training, and I used the wrong spell and sent that poor pet flying! It's my master's _master's_ pet, and I really needed to get it back so I don't get in trouble. I never meant for it to get here,..\" She sniffled a little before prostrating herself. \"Please, don't be mad or make trouble for Moshi Kana-sama. It was all my fault...\" Tears ran down her cheeks, moving the guards and servants...\n\n...But Kana with her investigative skills could see it was all an act; the sniffles were Aki trying not to laugh under her breath. \n\n\"Well then,\" Sighed one of the guards,\" I suppose we never actually recorded any visit. Just... Don't tell anyone that we were that apprehensive over the 'pet,' and we'll call it even.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was mentally preparing a lecture about the Moshi family and centipedes, only to find herself caught off guard for a brief moment at Aki's emotional display. It wouldn't take long for her to see through it, but she still found herself rather impressed, and perhaps a little frightened. Any less observant person, as these crane Ashigaru seemed to be, could very well be fooled. \n\nQuickly putting a lid on the jar, Kana rose to her feet, and bowed to the Ashigaru. \"That would be agreeable. I thank you for your understanding, and apologize for the inconvenience May Amaterasu light and bless your path,\" She spoke, smiling politely before motioning for Aki to follow her out. She would remain completely silent until the pair were out of earshot of the embassy.\n\nIt was then she started laughing.\n\n\"Did you see the looks on their faces over that poor centipede?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Bah! What a bunch of babies!\" Aki laughed along with Kana, more than tickled with the rather embarrassing display. \"Too bad we promised never to tell anybody; I'd love to tell the servants back home about-\" \n\nThe young shugenja stopped herself short, realizing what she had said. Back _home._ She blushed slightly, and moved to face Kana properly. Prostrating herself, she showed Kana some proper respect. \"I'm sorry for all the trouble I caused,\" She said, \"And I'm not fooling this time around. I guess I need to just accept that the Moshi is my family, and the embassy is my home. So... I guess I'm just trying to say, I'll try not to make too much trouble for you, Onee-sama.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"EH!?\"\n\nKana looked so shocked that her missing hair might well have turned white. Did she just call her... Onee-sama? She felt a swelling in her chest, and something in her eyes...\n\n*Am I...?*\n\n\"A-ah! Think nothing of it!\" She turned her head away briefly, reaching up to wipe at her eyes, and clear her throat. \"Oh dear, the streets are rather dusty today!\"\n\nClearing her throat once more, she turned her attention back to Aki, smiling warmly down at her. \"Your a-apology is accepted, Aki-san. You've been through a great deal, and even the most stoic and steadfast amongst us would have a problem making the adjustment you've had to make. I want you to know, though, that the Moshi being your family means that we care about you. We... I... Want you to have the best life that you can. You deserve that, and I mean it. Whether that means helping you when you get into trouble, or fishing trips.\"\n\nShe then took a knee to help Aki up. \"So... Onee-sama? Does this mean that I can call you Aki-chan now?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Aki sniffled slightly as well. Showing emotion was not common for her, \"Y-yeah, stupid street dust in the air...\"\n\nShe accepted Kana's help up on that breeze-less, dust-less street, and wiped her eyes on her sleeve as Kana gave some words of encouragement and sisterhood. She was more than grateful for the older shugenja, after she went through all that trouble to keep her out of trouble. Nobody ever went to bat for her, not once. Not since her real family... Well, it meant a lot. And while it was difficult to imagine she could be a proper samurai, she was willing to try. For Onee-sama. \n\n\"Aki-chan?\" She furrowed her brows, and pouted a bit. \"I think that's pushing it,\" She mumbled, \"But... Maybe you can, sometimes. Onee-sama.\" She smiled softly, and looked down at the jar. \"We should probably get her back to the embassy,\" She said, \"Before Mama Mai finds out!\" \n\n=======\n\n\n\"Aw. Those two are adorable.\" \n\nMoshi Mai peered into a bowl of water with her reflective pool, watching Moshi Kana and Aki wrangle her dear Muka-chan from the Crane Embassy. She thanked the kami and ended the spell, turning the water back to a simple reflection of the ambassador. \"Well, I'm glad to see they're getting along,\" She said to herself, getting up from her desk. She decided she'd let the girls have their win, and go hide out somewhere for a bit so she can \"Stumble upon\" Everything being back where it's supposed to be."
}
] | 317 | 7,037 |
210.636364 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "zanytheclown",
"message": "*He approached the embassy prepared with his audience with \"Mai\" Or that is what he was told, he felt like a fish out of water, or a Rooster away from his flock. His attire was less than fancy, it was what a peasant thought was fancy bright colors splattered on a white garb, it was definitely eye catching. His sandals made a hollow clak each time he took a step towards the embassy, he looked for a servant of anyone who could tell him when it was time to enter the main room for his counsel with Mai. He was very nervous.*"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "The servants at the Mantis Embassy took notice of the man wandering about, and soon discovered that he was a Samurai, new in town. After taking his travel papers to check upon, it was soon found out that he was Yoritomo Reigen, a clan samurai... Of peasant birth. \n\nIt was nothing that was uncommon; the Mantis often pulled peasants up to Samurai status, out of courage oftentimes. So, Moshi Mai, ambassador of the embassy, was more than willing to speak to him in a proper setting. \n\nAfter a few minutes, Reigen would be led to a meeting room. The room was decorated in the Mantis fashion: Mantis green coloring with golden trim, threaded tapestries depicting massive warships and dangerous serpent creatures, a giant mantis fending of evil spirits and the like. On the other walls, tapestries of a brilliant sun and a ferocious centipede breathing fire, another with a swarm of wasps destroying unmarked enemy bushi, and another of foxes, in total zen in a beautiful forest. Thus was the four families of the Mantis. \n\nAnd sitting at the table was Moshi Mai, the gaijin-blooded pirate/shugenja/ambassador. She was imposing, in both height and status, wearing her more traditional mantis green kimono and haori, her hair up in a bun held in with a comb received from one of the Samurai. \n\n\"Moshi Mai-sama,\" The servant said, \"I present Yoritomo Reigen.\" The servant bowed, and took a spot against the wall. \n\n\"Yoritomo Reigen-san.\" Mai waited for him to bow, and then would offer him a seat. \"Welcome. As she said, I am Moshi Mai. Pleasure to meet you. How fared your travel from the homeland?\""
},
{
"author": "zanytheclown",
"message": "*He would first bow before he would speak, he knew how to do that, being a peasant he had plenty of training. Quickly after he would sit and then address her after all the standards had been met.*\n\n\"Thank you for asking Ambassador, and it is an honor to meet you\" *He said with all respect do to her position*\n\n\"It was good, like i say if it's not a long journey it's a pleasant one\" *A drop of peasant humor he threw in for after all it was in his blood to be humorous, as he sat waiting for her to speak before he talks, a test of strength indeed because he loves to ramble.*"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai scoffed at the joke Reigan made. \"That is certainly the truth to some, isn't it?\" She chuckled soon afterward, genuinely liking the little joke. She didn't see a gift, but didn't expect one, if she was honest. Oftentimes, she didn't get any from incoming samurai, and one from the peasantry? She expected it even more so. \n\n\"All the same, I'm glad you're here. As much as I'd love to say you could sit back and relax, I intend to put you to work. There's much to do, and an able-bodied man like yourself is necessary.\" A servant arrived with tea for them to partake in, pouring for the both of them. After Mai had her sip, signaling that Reigan was good to enjoy, Mai had a few more questions. \n\n\"I understand you're peasant-born, adopted into the clan.\" She said it plainly, not as if it was a dirty thing. \"Tell me about this. I know you impressed some Yoritomo samurai, but I'd rather hear what you have to say for yourself.\""
},
{
"author": "zanytheclown",
"message": "*He took a sip from the tea before gently placing it in front of him, remembering how it happened*\n\n\"I was partaking in sake at the village Izakaya, when a elderly man stricken with rage brought his farming tool down on a samurai, like my body moved on its own I raised my foot to intercept it before it put my benefactor to an end. He said he was very impressed with my martial arts so he took me in as a Yoritomo clan samurai\"\n\n*He told the story leaving things out to keep it more upbeat and to leave the more detailed parts of his past to himself*\n\n\"And what father doesn't wish more for their child\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai listened intently, finding the whole thing rather amusing, albeit a bit lackluster. While it wasn't uncommon for the Mantis (Yortiomo and Tsuruchi especially) to ascend peasants for heroic deeds, she herself wasn't all that impressed with this one. He could have at _least_ boasted a bit and made a big show of it. \n\n\"Well then, good work, Yoritomo-san,\" She said, \"On acheiving a name for you _and_ your daughter. If you act with honor and courage, I'm certain your child will have a lovely, fruitful life. \"Tell me, is she old enough to begin training as a Samurai? There are no free boatrides in this Clan, as you know.\n\n\"Hence why you're here.\" Mai sipped her tea, and proceeded to explain. \"There are a lot of businesses that the Mantis are currently invested in, none more than the river trade. The strong veins of that river flow with profit and more importantly, power. We aim to maintain it, and cultivated to our own ends. On the up-and-up, of course.\n\n\"Thus, we'll need more able-bodied warriors to protect it. Thus, I am appointing you to assist Moshi Kakatsu in running our security garrisons on the docks. Your duty will be to guide the ashigaru, check for stowaways and smuggling, and make certain that our customers and our own shipments are not tampered with.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "zanytheclown",
"message": "*He would hear her words and understand them, he naturally loved to embellish but as a first impression is foolish and his trust in the Mantis clan isn't broken but not sturdy like a cracked egg* \n\n\"She will be someday if she chooses, but now she is just a child\" *He was worried of what terrible things she would be subject to in the work of a samurai, but he relented and listened to her request* \n\"Can you tell me about this \"Moshi Kakatsu?\" *He would rather know who he'll be working with for a rooster is naturally untrusting*\n\n*As he sipped his tea and placed down the cup with a clack as he made himself comfortable at his seat moving around a little making sure his legs dont fall asleep*"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Oh, no, no, Yoritomo-san. There's no _choice.\"_ Mai wasn't cruel about it, but she corrected him all the same. \"Your daughter is a Yoritomo, same as my late husband and my son. And when my son was old enough to write his name, he was set on his course to honor his ancestors and live up to his name. Your daughter will be no different. The only choice she has to be honorable, or a disgrace. And truly then, there's but one choice.\" \n\n\"Now, back to your taks, and Moshi Kakatsu. He is... Well, he's a man of the Moshi family. Eager to please, I'd say.\" Reigan might not know much about the Moshi family, but they were a matriarchal one, where the women (especially the shugenja women) reigned supreme. Some say the even rivaled the Utaku family in their ways, but that depended on who was asked. \"He could barely look me in the eye, I swear. But, I've been told I can be quite intimidating when I want to be.\n\n\"But, he is an honorable Samurai, same as you. I don't care if you're lowborn or not, as long as you complete your tasks properly and...\" Mai narrowed her gaze on the man, watching him fidget in his seat. \"...Is there a problem, Yoritomo-san? Eager to be elsewhere, or is there a cricket in your fudoshi?\" \n||"
},
{
"author": "zanytheclown",
"message": "*A small tick was set off behind his eye, unnoticeable to the uneducated but it was a thought one that filled the rooster with fear and pain. A thought of loosing his only real connection to this world he had left he didn't know what he'd become if that happened... No that's not it, he didn't know what he wouldn't do to stop that from happening. He remembers an old story from his village \"Demons and Yokai are not as terrifying as a man with nothing to lose\"*\n\n\"Ah, when she comes of age then, she is nowhere near that age now so let's push that from our minds\"\n\n*He acknowledged her observation*\n\"Oh I hate when my legs fall asleep, I feel so powerless when they are and I'm not naturally this sedimentary\" *Didn't want her to know he was also uneasy by his darker thoughts just before*\n\n\"But as you were saying\" *Not wanting to draw attention to it any longer*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai's gaze narrowed as she bore into Yoritomo Reigan, trying to look past his words. She stayed silent for a long moment, before she frowned slightly. \"Yoritomo-san, the ultimate tenet of the Mantis Clan and the Yoritomo family is _courage._ Even if the things I say bother you, you must act as if they don't. Weakness kills courage and honor faster than anything, and you cannot afford to be weak or cowardly in _my_ court. Understood?\"\n\nShe would wait for his reply, before giving something to soften the blow. \n\n\"Rest assured, your daughter will be safe and properly tended to. And as for you, you will be treated with the utmost respect as long as you follow orders and serve with distinction. I might be a mean cuss of a woman, or so I'm told, but you will find that I honor those that honor themselves and the Clan. Just... Try to relax, and do a good job, and all will be fine, alright?\""
},
{
"author": "zanytheclown",
"message": "*He remained silent for a moment before shaking off his fears*\n\n\"I believe you Ambassador, but my fear wasn't out of a place of cowardice, but of lack of restraint, but I will shake that away for now as long as you keep your word of her safety there is nothing else I can ask of you\"\n\n*He would finish his tea before awaiting her next instruction*\n\n\"Is there anything else you are to ask of me, before I start my work as samurai for clan Yoritomo?\""
}
] | 201 | 2,317 |
306.411765 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "It was late in the evening, and Moshi Mai and Chiyoko were both up and about, waiting at the gates of the Mantis Embassy. The guards were present as well, as there was going to be a rather important guest arriving.\n\nRokugo no Bayushi Yuto. Magistrate to the Scorpion Clan, and requesting to interrogate a gaijin criminal, under the Mantis' custody. Honestly, Mai was surprised this took this long. She expected the Scorpions to come trouncing around to make demands and try to take the criminal for themselves. And that was back when the Scorpion and Mantis were _allies._ \n\nUt now, things were more nebulous, and the only thing holding this meeting together was the fact that Mai held all the pieces on this proverbial shogi board. \n\n\"You're going to take him down to see the traitor,\" Mai said to Chiyoko, \"Along with some of the guards. If Williams-san tries to say anything foolish about what we're doing, hurt him until he stops. \n\n\"Yes, Moshi-sama.\" The ronin gave a small bow, and looked back at the gateway. \"And everything else?\"\n\n\"Let them speak freely. I want the Kolat gone as much as they do, and we've already given most of his information to our allies. He'll learn little we don't already know.\" \n\nAnd thus, they waited. \n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "There were a lot of problems with this situation but the Scorpion had no choice. He had no leeway to make demands of taking the prisoner. Yuto wanted to keep the Kolat confidential until he could expunge them from the city. One had no idea if they've already shared this information beyond the initial parties. Time was far ahead of the Magistrate and he had a lot of catching up to do. \n\nYuto arrived, offering his Katana with one of the attendants as he approached their embassy. \n\"You have my gratitude for letting me see him, despite so much time passing.\" \nThere wasn't much else to say. Too many questions lingered. Had the Palace been compromised? If Shosuro Miyagi was slain and had his authority abused there's no telling what else the Kolat possessed. Hints of hesitation lingered, doing his best to remain resilient. \n\n\"I've one question for you regarding the Kolat. Outside of our clans, who else is aware of their presence in the city?\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"You're a magistrate,\" Mai said simply, \"It would be foolish to not let you do your work, seeing as how it was a Scorpion that was murdered. I'd let the Crane in, just as easily, if needed.\" Mai wasn't necessarily short or rude with him, but she wasn't bubbly. No jokes, no teasing. She was strictly business that particular night. \n\nWhen he asked about who knew, she was blunt and honest. \"My allies know,\" She said, \"Since there was a possible plot to frame the Unicorn as Kolat conspirators. It would be the honorable thing to let a great clan know they were to be framed as heretics, would it not? And the Crane know, since it was believed that a gaijin crossbow was used to kill Kakita Arai. Unless, you know something I don't.\" \n\nChiyoko watched Yuto carefully after Mai spoke, to check for anything that might betray that serious magistrate's demeanor. || Investigation 4: Interrogation||. But, she didn't make it known, one way or the other. \n\n\"Bayushi-sama.\" She bowed to him. \"I will escort you to the prisoner. And on my master's orders, I will be present. Williams-san is not to be trusted, and he may attempt to feed you lies. I know him and his lies, and will help to flush them out. We also have a hinin that is skilled in... Bringing out the truth, if necessary.\" \n\n\"I pray that her presence is not an issue,\" Mai said. \"Because I'm not willing to budge on that. My embassy, my ronin, my prisoner, after all.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Yuto didn't really have response to anything, he simply nodded along—Keeping a neutral expression on his face. Knowing the Mantis, Crane, and Unicorn were all aware was now a pain in the ass, especially hearing her refer to them as allies. Keeping his poise, the Magistrate simply shrugged his shoulders at her inquiry. Did he know something she didn't? Kakita Arai was nothing but rumors and speculation. \n\n\"The Kolat used crossbows on us, I would not be surprised if their goal was to compromise more than one great clan. Perhaps they failed to veil the Crane's demise.\" \n\nHe spoke as if he didn't care about the Crane, which Yuto did not. Right now the Scorpion were paused, waiting for the crane to reveal their intentions. However, it seemed the Mantis did so for them. Once that was done, he turned and gave a nod to Chiyōko. There was no bother in the Ronin joining them. Edward Williams was their prisoner, asset, and weight against the Scorpion in the clan's endeavor. If anything they were here to control the information he gave to him. \n\n\"I am ready.\" He spoke softly."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Perhaps they did,\" Mai said with a shrug, \"But who's to say? Whenever something goes wrong, the easiest person to blame is the Kolat. But, that hardly matters at the moment. You have a meeting to attend.\" Mai motioned to Chiyoko to get moving, and stayed put outside to enjoy her pipe. \n\n\"If you'll follow me, Bayushi-sama.\" Chiyoko gave a bow to Moshi Mai, and led Yuto down to where the prisoner was being held. That meant heading into the embassy, down into the wine cellar, and then further down a hatch. \n\nDown there, it was dark, except for two lamps that provided just enough light to see the two iron cells. The first was vacant, but the second indeed held a captive. The gaijin man was pale of skin, with a poorly-growing beard and scraggly long hair. He was bruised, scarred and clearly injured, with a few fingers missing and quite a few teeth as well. His clothing was nothing but a fudanshi, wet with sweat and more foul fluids, judging by the smell. To any Rokugani, this would be horribly inhumane. But a gaijin, and a traitor at that? It was better than he deserved.\n\n\"Chiyoko-sama, Sc-scorpion-sama.\" \n\nA pitiful-looking man, tan of skin and weasley in shape and demeanor, bowed deeply to the two higher-ups. He was balding, with a distasteful smile and knobby fingers, elbows and knees. \"I am pleased to be of s-service, hehe, in t-torturing the gaijin, hehehe! Terrible traitor, ehehe!\" \n\nChiyoko narrowed her eye. She clearly despised this man as much as Edward. \"This is Giro,\" She said flatly, \"A torturer that enjoys his craft far too much.\" \n\n\"I serve the Order,\" The man said, bowing deeper, \"H-happy to do so, hehehe!\" \n\n\"Open the cage and wake him up. And stop talking.\" \n\nGiro bowed many times as he hurriedly opened the cage, and delivered a surprisingly potent slap to Edward's face. The prisoner gasped, catching air in his lungs, looking bewildered. \n\n\"Huh? Oh, it's the one-eyed bitch again.\" Edward Williams sneered, locking eyes on the ronin. \"The dog is back on behalf of the half-breed master, huh? Well, I always said, I'm done, I got nothing left, so don't...\" \n\nEdward peered over, noticing the Scorpion. \"You... I've seen you before... You were one of the bastards that should have been blown up, right?\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Following Chiyōko down into the cellar; he let out a breath to check the room temperature. It was a lot chiller in here than upstairs. Upon laying eyes on the Gaijin, the scorpion lifted an eyebrow in amusement. Clearly, they got the necessary information out of him. Giro certainly seemed content and fulfilled. Whatever tactics the Mantis possessed were certainly brutal, but duty demanded such to be done. Samurai wouldn't sully their hands with something so vile, but the Scorpion were the underhand for a reason. \n\n\"Oh? You've seen me? I thought that killer smile was familiar.\" He jested of course, but he did find interest in whatever the man was saying. Something about an explosion? Yuto was unfamiliar with any event. Where was this supposed to occur? The crematorium? Destroying where Miyagis body was stashed? Maybe somewhere more important. \n\n\"I'm not sure, perhaps you can jog my memory. Where was my 'Should' have been grave? Do you remember? Had your men killed me in the crematorium they wouldn't have had to worry about transferring a body.\" He approached and sat before the man, creating strong eye contact. The smell nor appearance of Edward bothered him, but he needed answers now. \n\n\"I've a few questions if you'd be willing to answer them. I'm in quite a bad mood today, maybe you can make it better.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Edward scoffed at the question. \"Don't you remember when they almost blew you and your damned lackeys up with that bomb? You're lucky you made it out of there when you did. If _I_ was lucky, we would've all died right then and there.\"\n\nThat might jog Yuto's memory of fighting the Kolat, and the climax ending with a gaijin pepper bomb as a last ditch effort to kill the Samurai. \n\nEither way, Edward didn't seem to care if Yuto was having a bad day. \"I am _not_ willing to answer anything, slave to a false god,\" He said with brazen disrespect, \"But I'm sure you'll ask anyway.\"\n\n\"You will stop with the unnecessary chatter,\" Chiyoko warned, \"Or you'll have to speak through broken teeth.\" \n\n\"...Fine.\" The gaijin looked to the Scorpion, and nodded. \"What? What do you want to know so badly?\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "His reaction brought some relief. Yuto may have been too paranoid, he needed to calm himself down. Only one thing, that's what he was here for. If he could secure that then it was a clear road ahead. Taking a breath, he allowed the man to speak and for Chiyōko to interject. Clearing himself of all thought and emotion, he wouldn't let his feelings ruin this. This was his first step into solving this mystery. || Void 4 - Clear Mind || \n\n\"Two things. I have but two things to ask you and I'll be on my way.\" He spoke politely. \"There was a woman who attacked me and fled, she carried a blade without a handle. She's the prime suspect in Shosuro Miyagi's murder. What can you tell me of her? Who she is? Where can I find her? The woman fled instead of saving you, she put a value on your life and determined it held no worth. Don't you harbor any spite?\" He hoped there would be something there he could use.\n\nYuto had one more thing to ask, but he'd wait to see how the Gaijin would respond to the first question. He'd be able to tell if the man was lying, or at least trying to deter his efforts. \"I would appreciate anything you can tell me. You'll find me to be more generous than anyone who has questioned you so far.\" He winked. Hoping that would allure the man in, despite being a Junshin, the man only saw a Scorpion in front of him."
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Edward looked up at Yuto when he asked his question. He looked confused at first, \"Tanken? No, she didn't kill Miyagi. _I_ did.\" He was all smiles, _proud_ of the fact. \"Yeah, he had himself a little trouble with chasing the dragon, you see. I got his chop, he tried to fight me, so I killed him. Good riddance to bad rubbish.\" \n\nChiyoko stood stone faced, unshaken by the man's disrespect. It could mean she was as rock solid as ever, or it could mean this wasn't news to her. She certainly looked indecipherable at the moment as she barked for him to keep talking. \n\n\"Right, right. So, I killed the armory guy. But, I killed him because I was told to by another guy. And that guy is protected by that woman.\n\n\"Their names are _Cloak_ and _Dagger._ In your tongue, Manto and Tanken. They're Thranean, like me. Never really saw that they look like, but you can't hide the accent for long. At least the guy. The woman, Tanken? She doesn't speak. Not once have I heard her talk.\" Edward sighed, and looked back to Yuto. \"Now, I can tell you where I saw them last, but... My memory isn't the best. Maybe if I was allowed to _leave_ this place, I could help you find it.\" \n\n\"Absolutely not,\" Chiyoko said sternly, \"You're not going-\"\n\n\"Last I checked, _you're_ just a ronin. Only the Samurai here can make a call, right? Or is your Order as fickle as I thought?\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Looks like he was gonna have to lie to Sakura about who killed Miyagi... If Yuto didn't have use for the man he'd strangle him to death right now despite the consequences. However his shirt in attitude meant he was speaking the truth. Manto and Tanken? Finding those two meant he could find everyone else, including the Chop.. \n\nHowever the mans suggestion would certainly bring hesitation. Did he really think that would work? Yuto wasn't an idiot but the chances of the man escaping him were slim, although the chances of Mai approving such were even narrower than that. \"You're certain I can locate the chop if I find this Cloak and Dagger you speak of? The value you possess is up to your knowledge, and it seems like you don't know much.\" \n\nTaking him would be a gamble. Without turning to Chiyōko, he spoke: \"Chiyōko-san, would you be kind enough to ask Moshi-sama of your guest being in my company for a while? I have several Yoriki to monitor him. His leash will be a fingers length.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"Of course I can get you to them,\" Edward said, \"Just get me out of this damned place and I'll serve you those two on a silver platter! Or a bamboo mat, or whatever the hell, you know what I mean, yes?\" \n\nChiyoko nodded at their torturer, who hit Edward across the mouth with a small wooden club, making Edward shut his mouth for the moment. The ronin focused back on Yuto, none too pleased with his request. \"Bayushi-sama, I think we both know that would be a foolish idea. Letting that gaijin out of our hands and into yours would not be acceptable. I mean no disrespect to your station, but the Scorpion are not allies. Allowing you to take our fugitive and go off on your own accord doesn't provide much in the way of security in thought.\"\n\n\"Shee dat?\" Edward spat out a glob of blood, laughiing. \"You Schcorpions ged shid on all de time, you know. She things she'sh allowed to talk to you like you're jusht shome commonah off da shtreet!\" \n\n\"Quiet, you!\" Chiyoko ordered another strike, and another was delivered. She focused her eye on Yuto, all the same. \"The point of this was to talk to the captive, not take him with you. On my honor, I will not entertain such a request.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "It wasn't that Yuto believed in Edward, as a matter of fact he didn't buy anything the man was saying other than the murder confess. He knew this man would use his freedom as a bargaining chip, likely to run Yuto into a trap somewhere. He found it interesting she ordered to have him struck after he offered the scorpion something.. Standing up, he turned to the Ronin, Chiyōko refused, but the Magistate was persistent. \n\n\"Chiyōko-san, let me ask. How much do you and Moshi-sama know of Shosuro Miyagi and his station? You've already interrogated him for your own interest, surely he must have spilled something of the Scorpions compromise.\" She'd have been able to tell where he was leading with this. The Mantis and Scorpion were no longer allies, that was true, but this conflict was bigger than their relations. \n\nHe turned back to the prisoner, \"What all are they smuggling? Weapons, armor, explosives? Clearly, you Kolat are planning something extraordinary, why're you so willing to throw your precious cloak and dagger in the path of my blade? Maybe you don't want them to succeed after all? You can't only care for yourself.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Chiyoko narrowed her gaze as she was spoken to, but maintained as much respect as warranted. \"If you would think we would withhold information, you're sorely mistaken. Our only concern was what secrets of the Mantis Clan this traitor may have shared with these Kolat handlers. What you know about the late Shosuro-sama is what we _all_ learned when the joint venture was made. That fact that this coward killed him is newly discovered, just now. Bayushi-sama.\" \n\nWhen he turned back to Edward, he was quick to give affirmations. \"Oh, all sorts of stuff. Weapons, armor, the whole lot! There's even a connection to get black powder, too. I don't know where they powder is or comes from, but I know who does, of course! Just get me out of here, and I'll give them to you, easy as that!\" Edward grinned, missing many teeth. \n\n\"As for my reasons, of _course_ it's to get out of here! Look at what these bastards did to me! I don't give a shit about Manto or Tanken or Mantis or any of this shit. I came here to discipline you bakwards-thinking bastards, and all I got was shit upon. Well, you shit on me, don't be surprised when I shit all over-\"\n\n\"You know,\" Mai sighed, coming down the tunnel, \"You're not very quiet, Eddy-kun.\" The Ambassador glared at him from the darkness, stepping into the torchlight. \"I heard something about shitting on me? Think you'd be able to pull that off before I ripped you in half, boy?\" \n\nEdward gulped, and looked away. \"I... Just-\"\n\n\"Now, I swear I heard something about letting you out?\" \n\n\"Yes, Moshi-sama,\" Chiyoko replied with a bow, \"Edward says he can lead Bayushi-sama to two kolat agents, on the caveat that he be let go into Bayushi-sama's custody. I _told_ him that would be most impossible-\" \n\n\"Did I _tell_ you it was impossible?\" She shot Chiyoko a look, but her gaze rested on Yuto soon after. \"Bayushi-san. Tell me truthfully, what will you do with this man while he's out of my grasp?\" Her eyes were sharp and looking for deceit, but she had no need to read the body or the voice."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Part of the Scorpion didn't believe the Ronin, although, them not killing the man yet spoke volumes. Either they weren't hiding information from them or they still needed something, as of right now Yuto couldn't determine which. His gaze was sharper than a sword, searching for any hint of deception in her face and voice. \n\nOnce Edward spoke, he merely confirmed the few things the Magistrate was speculating. The man's deal was too good to be true, knowing very well he'd be placing the scorpion in a trap. Gritting his teeth, Yuto held back a bottled frustration, keeping himself in control was more important. What mattered is getting what he wanted right now, before he could reply, a familiar voice made itself known. \n\nMoshi Mai seemed to be too curious to not listen in. He was surprised to see how sharply the Ambassador addressed the Ronin acting in her interest. Perhaps she saw the bigger picture as Yuto did. \n\n\"Just as I told your Ronin, Moshi-sama. Temporary custody of your prisoner, allow him to lead me and my men into whatever trap they'll pounce us with. Find their leaders, destroy their forces, and bring ruin to whatever plan they're brewing is all that matters. I'll ensure his return.\" \n\n*' They think I have ulterior motives as if this doesn't affect us all. If anything they should be helping me, but instead, it's this...'* He briefly twitched an eye before forcibly keeping it still. Even going to sigh out of stress. \n\n\"Look, if you think I'm planning something you can just send Chiyōko-san, Moshi Kana-san, or anybody else I don't give a damn. I'm not just trying to spare my clan of consequences, I'm trying to keep the city you want to take from burning.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai listened to Yuto very carefully, past his words and to his inner thoughts. It was her first time using the prayer, and it was rather intrusive. She didn't like it, but now more than ever, she needed to be careful. But the important thing was this: Yuto's aims seemed to be true and righteous.\n\n\"I see.\" Mai put her hands on her hips, and smirked. \"You know, if you were just ten years older and would get rid of that mon, I would be most pleased to host you, Bayushi-san. You're here on the right grounds with the right reasons. I can respect that, and praise it, too.\" \n\nShe walked closer to Yuto, getting very close. \"Tomorrow night. Return here, and you'll have your captive. I will need a bit of time to find a representative of my clan to accompany you. I will provide some men, as well, but Edward here will go where you wish, and I swear on my honor that my representative will not get in the way of justice.\" She looked him the eyes, and asked another question. \"Can you abide by those conditions? For the sake of the empire, after all.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Crossing his arms, he clenched tightly, it was the only way to compose his bottling irritation. Controlling his eyes was the hard part, the silk veil did all the heavy lifting. There was a slight squint and head tilt, confused by the Ambassadors first choice of words. If there was a time to throw that kind of offer it certainly wasn't now, she seemed so certain he was truthful, was there reason to ask in the first place then? \n\nKeeping eye contact as she came close, he didn't protest any of the conditions but one, \"I've my own men, just a representative or two to keep eyes on your prisoner. Forgive me but, This matter become personal to the Scorpion, I don't want to be bothered with overseeing more men than needed. Unneeded casualties we can easily avoid.\" He didn't want any questioning or disobedience in his authority during this operation. \n\n\"Many would protest me, but due to my personal feelings for you, I will ensure everything the Kolat has relevant to the mantis will be delivered to you. As I will for the other clans in the city. Edward is nothing more than a finger to point our path.\""
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai smirked, looking Yuto dead in the eyes. \"Oh, Yuto-kun, you're sorely mistaken. If there's any clan that's showed they've need to be overseen and managed, it's _yours.\"_ Her tone shifted to stern, not seemingly playing around anymore. \"I don't remember asking you for permission, merely if you could abide. As a way of expressing my feelings for _you,_ I'm allowing this to be discussed here and now instead of in front of the Imperials, where you could explain the blunders of your _investigation.\"_\n\nShe looked over at Chiyoko, and gave a nod. \"It would seem this meeting is over,\" The ronin said. \"Bayushi-sama, if you'll follow me, I'll escort you off the premises. You'll have your captive and a representative of the Mantis clan tomorrow evening, after sundown.\""
}
] | 292 | 5,209 |
241.62963 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Mantis embassy loomed before her a stark contrast from the quiet and solitary Dragon Embassy as Magistrate Mirumoto Katsumi approached with measured steps. The Dragon Samuria dressed in a suitably nice dark summer green yukata that beyond being just a shade off from Mantis green allowed the red haired woman to pass without raising too much undue attention. All while being proper enough dress that should she unexpectedly encounter the individual they had come to seek they would not be considered improperly attired for a first meeting.*\n\n*Gaze casting about their jade green eyes swept over the various individuals searching for whom they should inquire with. At least in-so-far as to the location of one particular Mantis and whether or not he or letters addressed from him to her older sister had yet to arrive.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta was enjoying a surprisingly lazy day down at the Mantis embassy. For the time being her skills were not required, so she had found a rather comfortable spot to sit on one of the benches near the entranceway, rebraiding her hair. She wore a charcoal gray hakama over a simply jade green kimono, a bit of a reddish brown floral pattern on the sleeves served as a small tribute to Tsuta's family.\n\nA small white rabbit was on the bench beside, her sniffing the air, and occasionally tugging on a pouch that hung on the woman's side with its teeth. The gesture drew an exaggerated sigh from the woman.\n\n\"I told you, Fuji... I'll get to you once I finish this braid, okay?\"\n\nTsuta attempted to return to her work, but unfortunately for Fuji, his wait would be a bit longer. She let her hair go as she looked toward the red-haired Samurai who was approaching. She smiled a bit; she was very much looking forward to no longer being the only Kitsune about the embassy. Nodding her head to the woman, she raised a hand in greeting.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Spotting the movement Katsumi's eyes flickered to the other red haired, green clad woman. Her gaze drifting over her appearance as her brows rose an inch in surprise having not had the pleasure to meet her distant Kitsune cousins, but finding her heart lightening at the thought as she approached. Her Grandmother's hair had long gone grey by the time Katsumi herself had been born. The woman ancient even in her youth and her elder sisters hair was more a dark copper brown only showing the reds intermingled with the cocoa colored strands when the light hit them just right. Leaving Katsumi herself a bright speck of color as far as hair colors went in regards to the rest of her family even if they all shared the same striking jade eye color.* \n\n\"Greetings Mantis-san,\" *She murmurs offering a bow,* \"Would you by chance be of the Kitsune clan?\" *Katsumi inquires not wishing to wrongfully assume, but curious to meet her Obaasan's family.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta flashed the approaching woman a grin as she approached, standing up to her, well... Rather meagre height, returning the bow. \"Hey, good guess. I figure this kimono did its job then, huh?\" She held out the sleeves, showing off the pattern there. \"You one of the new arrivals, then? We've been getting a whole lot. I gotta say it'll be nice not to be the only Kitsune around... These...\"\n\nTsuta trailed off a bit as she examined the woman's outfit more closely. She wore green, but it wasn't *Quite* The shade of green that marked someone as a Mantis. Even with people who dressed as brightly as they could, like the Magistrate and the Ambassador usually had something the right shade of green. The clan mon, though, was most certainly not of the Mantis.\n\nShe paused a bit, and scratched the back of her neck, attempting to laugh her mistake off. \"Or... Maybe not. Sorry. Just figured with that hair...\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Magistrate's face lights up, her smile blossoming across her features with rare open joy as Tsuta confirms that she is indeed a member of the Kitsune clan. The two woman nearly identical in height as the Mantis woman rises to her feet with Katsumi only a scant two inches taller. There are similarities there in their appearance beyond just the red of their hair. It's the shape of their chins, the curve of their noses, little features she had only ever seen reflected in her family and her grandmother's weathered face now staring back at her. The assumption is instantly and immediately forgivable.*\n\n\"I am Mirumoto Katsumi a Magistrate of the Dragon clan,\" *She introduces herself,* \"But I believe we may well be family nonetheless. My honorable Grandmother Mirumoto Umeko was of the Kitsune clan before she married my honorable Grandfather.\" *Katsumi explains her beaming smile softening just a touch in regards to talk of her direct family.* \n\n\"I must admit I am rather thrilled to meet you as I've not had the pleasure of encountering any of my Kitsune cousins.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta seemed almost relieved the height difference wasn't quite as drastic since she came closer. She also noticed the similarity in their features as well; while the differences might had been lost on an outsider, for one who had spent almost their entire life around Kyuden Kitsune, it was almost like she had gone back for a visit. As she introduced herself, Tsuta met Katsumi's eyes, making note of their hue.\n\n\"Ah, damn. Guess I'm being a bit too casual then, Mirumoto-sama.\" She bowed to her once more, lower this time. \"Tsuta Kitsune. Next time I write home, I'll have to ask auntie if she knew Kitsune Umeko-sama. Be a neat connection if she did!\"\n\nWhile she stood up a bit straighter, she still wore the same confident smile. \"Likewise. Like I was saying, I've been the only one around so long, so meeting you is great! Have you been in the city very long?\" She then asked. \"Pretty new arrival myself, but I'm pretty good at getting at the lay of the land. Good tracking, one with the environment, and all that. Could show you around if you needed it sometime.\"\n\nIt was then the white rabbit began tugging on Tsuta's hakama.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"There has been no offense meant and no offense taken Kitsune-san,\" *She assures Tsuta with a gentle smile feeling almost guilty that she was not what the other woman had expected. Still it would be lovely to not be the only red head around that was not a Kitsu. Though mistaking those of Kitsu blood for those of Kitsune blood was a bit like confusing a fox for a lion. Coat color aside there was simply no comparison.*\n\n\"And that would be wonderful. I'm afraid given the winters of Shiro Mirumoto we've lost track of much of our extended family. To reconnect once more would be a wonderful occasion.\" *Katsumi agrees with an incline of her head. Tsuta's confidence and good humor infectious as the Magistrate found her more business like demeanor softening to something more natural.*\n\n\"I've been in the city only a scant handful of days since my arrival, but I would love a tour from yourself. I'm actually looking for a Mantis you see~\" *She begins only to pause gaze drawn down to the rabbit tugging at Tsuta's hakama.*\n\n\"Oh? Is this little one a friend of yours?\" *The Magistrate inquires lips pursing ever so slightly as she resists the urge to coo at the adorable ball of fluff.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, well that's good then. Hate to end up being improper.\" She then relaxed a bit, before looking down to her little companion, still tugging on her hakama.\n\n\"Him? Probably my best friend, if I'm being honest.\" She laughed once more. It was a deeper, more full laugh this time, as if she wasn't simply trying to put forward confidence. \"His name's Fujio. He and I have been together for the past five years. He's a bit pushy, but he's a good boy. Unfortunately for me, though, I got a pleasant, but unexpected distraction from giving him his treats.\" She then reaches into her pouch, getting some pieces of dried, orange fruit, and offering them to Katsumi. \"If you'd like to introduce yourself, he'll love you right away if you give him some of these.\n\n\"As for that tour, that sounds great then!\" She was back to a more confident demeanor then. \"Might even be able to help with that Mantis you're looking for. What's their name?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"He is adorable,\" *Katsumi states with all the seriousness and absolute confidence of fact, before her demeanor cracks with a smile. The Magistrate happily accepting the dried orange fruit as they carefully crouched, palm held flat with the fruit upon it, before offering out the treat to the little rabbit.*\n\n\"Sincerest greetings oh fine Fujio~\" *They murmur in playful soft hearted respect,* \"You are a very handsome rabbit. The Handsomest rabbit I dare say I have ever had the pleasure to witness.\" *Katsumi coos should the rabbit in question hop closer to accept her greetings. The woman glancing up at Tsuta with a smile.*\n\n\"And I would be grateful for your assistance. I'm afraid I've never been formerly introduced to the Bushi in question so I do not know their given name. I sent them a letter requesting we meet here to discuss their betrothal with my elder sister, but never received a response. I was hoping perhaps they had left a letter addressed to myself or my sister here or arrived here themselves? They are a Tsuruchi archer.\" *They explain with a slight frown well aware that sadly there was little to go on and that they could not very well inquire with their sister as to further details. Thankfully the Tsuruchi were not the most numerous and if nothing else she would be able to identify herself and them by their personal mons.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta was beaming like she was a proud parent. \"He really is, isn't he? Soon as we crossed paths, I just knew this rabbit was the most handsome in all of Rokugan! Glad to see you also agree, Mirumoto-sama.\"\n\nFujio would go at the treat with almost frightening speed, grabbing a piece, and then hopping away a few strides, as if worried that someone would steal his treasure. He then began to munch in earnest, seeming to expend a great deal of effort with the chewy morsel.\n\n\"That's normal, by the way. Once bunnies have something they want, they like to take it where they feel safer. Even if in their little bunny life they've never had someone so much as *Think* Of stealing from them!\" She added with a chuckle.\n\nShe then glanced back as the topic went to the Tsuruchi and Katsumi's sister. \"Well then. I haven't run into a Tsuruchi archer myself. We got an archer range that's run by a Tsuruchi, go there myself just to stay sharp,\" She mimed drawing a bow back and releasing, \"But unless your older sister's a lot older, I don't think he's your man.\"\n\nHer expression actually softened a bit as she saw her frown, though. She once again stood up a bit straighter. \"Hey, though... Don't get down, yeah? I'll keep my out for the guy. He's not trying to run out on your sister on anything, is he?\"\n\nFujio would start to try to \"Groom\" Katsumi's hakama.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Katsumi chuckles as Fujio snags the treat and hops away like a little bunny shaped thief in the night. The image quite endearing,* \"Well I certainly would not want to be accused of stealing from a rabbit. I'm uncertain if my honor could survive such a dire accusation.\" *They joke flashing Tsuta a smile as they slowly straighten up brushing a few wrinkles from their yukata as they turn back to Tsuta.*\n\n\"My sister is only a few years older then myself so he should be in his late twenties or early thirties at most.\" *She explains certain that whoever ran their range was most likely not the man she was searching for from Tsuta's reaction. Though at the Kitsune's assumption she quickly clears the air.*\n\n\"Oh no, nothing so dishonorable. Unfortunately my Sister is...\" *The Magistrate pauses for a moment considering their words, their expression one of resigned sorrow,* \"Gone... And can no longer fulfil the betrothal. I did not think it right to entrust such news to a courier so I have come in person to discuss the matter and the contract.\" *She explains not wishing to have a misunderstanding between the Mantis and the Dragon clan. The slight tugging on her hakame drawing the woman's attention as she once more crouched, offering her fingers out to the rabbit to sniff before with slow and gentle care she reached to stroke the little creatures fur should it allow her.*\n\n\"And thank you. My sister mentioned that the Mantis are often at sea when I once asked why her betrothed's letters were so often delayed. So I sincerely believe the lack of response is simply due to whimsy of the tide or other complications rather then out of any avoidance.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta laughed at the joke, leaning back against the embassy's entrance. She returns Katsumi's smile, but it quickly fades as she hears the circumstances of why exactly she's seeking out her sister's betrothed. \"Oh... Oh fortunes, I'm so sorry to hear that.\" She lowers her head as she continues. \"For what it's worth, I think your sister would be honored you decided to deliver that news in person. It's very kind of you.\"\n\nShe decided to remain quiet for a moment out of respect for the revelation. Fujio, though, lacking that same understanding, still seemed rather insistent. He would sniff Katsumi's hand, before lowering his head, letting her know that it would indeed be acceptable to pet him. \n\nTstuta looked back up as Katsumi spoke again. \"Well, that's good to know. Honestly... Yeah. Being out at sea as much as a lot of us are does lead to some pretty slow writing. Just wanted to make sure there wasn't anyone dishonoring you or your family I needed to have a talking to.\" She managed a small smile once more at that.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Magistrate gently strokes the rabbit. Her fingers carefully smoothing back it's fur and when it becomes clear Fujio does not dislike the attention she gives his ears a soft rub.* \"Thank you. It is an unfortunate matter, but my family has always valued our friendship with the Mantis clan so we wish to ensure things are made right.\" *She assures Tsuta her smile slowly returning.*\n\n\"I do not think my Father would ever forgive me if he could not longer attend the Tsuruchi archery competitions due to some folly on my part. I am *Quite* Certain the man would ensure I do a fine impression of a hedgehog.\" *Katsumi adds with a soft wry laugh and a rueful teasing smile.* \n\n\"Besides I've always wanted to see a Mantis ship. I'm told short of the kami's blessing to sail upon one is the closet man might come to flying.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, for what the word of another Samurai is worth, and not one of the higher ups, I don't think we'd ever hold a grudge over that. Especially not to you.\" She grinned. \"At least I hope so. I think you make a much better Samurai than you would a hedgehog, to be honest.\"\n\nTsuta seemed quite happy to see the smile back on Katsumi's face. In the meantime, Fujio began to close his eyes, grinding his teeth in contentment. \n\n\"Yeah... I think you won the little guy over,\" She noted. \"Treats and good pets and this guy just melts, y'know?\" \n\n\"As for ships, well... Lemme tell you. Once you get out on open waters, the wind's in your hair, and the boat's at speed? Can't say I've ever been flying, but I feel like that's gotta get close.\" She pushed a couple of her braids back as she spoke. \"We got the Tomodachi Maru open for visitors, but, ah... That one's not so much for sailing. Try to stay away from that one myself unless it's work. Bit too much drinking for my liking.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"I am glad to hear it,\" *Katsumi quips with a light bell like laugh as they flash Tsuta a rueful grin.* \"It'd be a sad end to leave this world a hedgehog.\" \n\n\"And I am glad I meet Fujio's approval. I've always wanted a pet myself, but my work and travel just never allowed for such a thing. Perhaps I'll reconsider should I end up settling down in the city.\" *She muses eyes softening as Katsumi lets out a low content hum. The little rabbit just too cute for words. Though as Tsuta begins to regale her about the Mantis ships she cannot help, but perk up with interest.*\n\n\"I can imagine. I'm told there's nothing quite like the smell of the sea and the salt spray on your face as the wind dances. I've read of it extensively, but ah...\" *They shake their head ruefully,* \"Some things ink and text can never do justice. I imagine those who've never seen the heights of my homelands mountains feel the same when they read the descriptions of them in scrolls rather then walked those peaks themselves.\" *She murmurs a spark of pity settling within her bones at the thought.*\n\n\"The Tomodachi Maru? Is it a drinking establishment?\" *They question with a tilt of their head.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"I understand what you mean. Honestly, if the little guy didn't travel so well, I probably couldn't manage to look after a pet properly.\" She glanced up to Katsumi. \"If it's not too forward of me to ask, how long do you think you'll end up staying? Just here to deliver the message and do a bit of work, or something more long term?\"\n\nShe closed her eyes a brief moment as she thought of the ships. \"Yeah... Reading's nice, but it's not the same as actually experiencing it. It's kinda cold, almost shockingly so, but like... Not in an unpleasant way. Then again, you're talking to a woman whose favorite season is winter, so maybe I'm not the right one to be asking,\" She added with a smirk. \"Shoot, I bet the mountains must be incredible in the wintertime...\"\n\nAs the topic turns back to the Tomodachi Maru, she clears her throat. \"Yeah. Drinking establishment. Amongst, well... Other things...\" She trailed off, hoping she wasn't going to leave *Too* Bad an impression of the clan.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Katsumi paused in her work, likely to Fujio's annoyance, to consider Tsuta's question. The future had felt rather bleak of late in the light of her family's loss. They would be lying if they said they had thought much of it when their focus had been on simply achieving one step after another. Eventually though they settle on honesty,* \"I don't know.\" \n\n\"In addition to delivering the message and settling the contract I was sent here to assist the Dragon Ambassador and my clan. So I expect I will be in Ryoko Owari Toshi till at least next spring. Perhaps longer depending on a few factors.\" *They admit offering a small shrug as they allow themselves to be caught up in Tsuta's description of the sea. Their own mind drifting to the picturesque mountain peaks of her own home.*\n\n\"Shiro Mirumoto is said to be one of the most breathtaking places in Rokugan in Winter. I believe one of the Crane who visited the place during Winter Court painted a picture of Last Glance Castle atop it's sheer peak. When the sun first rises over the mountains the ice covered stone catches the light and makes the entire castle appear as though it were built of crystal.\" *Katsumi murmurs with a slow fond smile. The winters of her home had been bitter and cold, but no less beautiful.*\n\n\"And ah I see. It is as my Brother might have said, 'a place of good drink and good company.\" *They quip jade eyes bright with amusement as they mentally earmark the establishment should someone invite them to such a place or... Should they need to find certain Bushi of specific character.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Fujio let out a tiny little growl at the stopping of the pets, even thumping his feet a little bit. The bratty rabbit apparently had little consideration for other human affairs! Tsuta, though, was thankfully more mindful, keeping her attention entirely on Katsumi.\n\n\"So, here for a good while at least, then,\" She replied. \"Well, if I'm not being too forward again, for what it's worth I'm glad I'll be seeing more of you around here.\" She grinned. \"Not to mention we haven't seen too many Dragons around the city. Not that I blame em'. It'd be a good chance to maybe build some connections?\"\n\n\"Also, never thought I'd be jealous of a Crane,\" She added with a short laugh, sighing wistfully. \"Getting the chance to paint something like that? That's the kind of thing I've only ever dreamt about. I'm no poet or anything like that, so that's how I like to capture it. Especially snow.\"\n\nTsuta did seemed visibly relieved that Katsumi caught her meaning. She wasn't exactly looking forward to the prospect of having to explain what happened there in *Detail*. \"Your brother has it right. It's... Well, there's a market for it here, that's for sure.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Chuckling Katsumi carefully reassumes her petting of the little rabbit lest she find herself further scolded,* \"Not too forward at all as I feel the same,\" *She agrees her smile turning rueful as the talk shifts to her clan.* \"I'm unsurprised to hear that the other Dragon's have kept mostly to themselves. I believe that may well be the other reason for my assignment here within Ryoko Owari Toshi. As I am considered uncommonly social for most of my clan.\" *Katsumi admits, but then again such was often the duty of her family.*\n\n\"Though perhaps if our families are able to reconnect you may one day be able to paint such a place yourself.\" *She adds her smile gentle. The Dragon's were often reclusive, but their dens were warm when it came to their families.*\n\n\"And you needn't worry in regards to my sensibilities. I've long worked as a Justicar so I fear I have a rather more robust pool of knowledge in regards to such things then most of my clan. The city is a place of many businesses and many pleasure and I would be more surprised to find that the Mantis with their keen senses have not mastered the winds of opportunity.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"You do? Well... That's all the better then!\" She leaned against the door to the mantis embassy, arms folded as she watched the Dragon continue petting the bunny. Fujio for his part seemed to have his anger soothed, lowering his head once more and resuming the tooth purring.\n\n\"Uncommonly social, eh? Yeah, I can see that. In a good way, though. I've known some uncommonly social people who I'd rather not sit and have a talk with,\" She noted, chortling a little bit. \"Though... That's a hell of an offer that you're making there, Mirumoto-sama. I guess if the higher ups got no problem with it, I'd happily take that offer if I'm allowed the opportunity. Especially if it's in winter. Not to flog a dead horse or anything just... I dunno. Something about it. The way it kinda hangs in the air, the way it catches torchlight when it snows in the middle of the night...\"\n\nShe trails off, closing her eyes as she visualized the sight of it. For a brief moment she even felt a bit homesick, thinking of the winter nights back at Kyuden Kitsune...\n\n\"Ah, shoot. Caught me drifting.\" She chuckled a bit more awkwardly, scratching the back of her neck. \"Right, Magistrate and all that, probably got a chance to see most of it. Places like that... Can't say they're ever my choice of where to spend my time, but it does good for the clan at least.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"A suggestion more than an offer,\" *Katsumi carefully corrects her expression wry, but fond.* \"If it were my place to make such decisions then my clan would be a bit less closed off to the world.\" *She admits, but ah if wishes were Utaku steeds then ronin would ride.*\n\n\"Still you are not wrong. I fear my work has taken me all over the land dealing with one case or another, but should the Dragon open our doors I believe my Father would enjoy seeing more of my Grandmother's clan. His work does not allow him to travel beyond the occasional tournament.\" *Katsumi murmurs her eyes going soft at the thought of her family.* \n\n\"Though speaking of work...\" *She murmurs straightening for the last time with great reluctance.* \"Would you perhaps be able to inform your Ambassador that I would wish to meet with them at their earliest convience? I will likewise send a letter as I do not wish to impose upon the Mantis.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Right... Getting carried away. My apologies.\" She bowed to Katsumi. \"Got to rein myself in a little bit.\" She returned one more to focusing on and actively listening to Katsumi, meeting her gaze.\n\n\"Your father... In any of his travels, has he ever had a chance to go to Kyuden Kitsune?\" She tilted her head just slightly, looking a bit like a curious fox as she did. \"If he ever did, I think he'd be welcomed there. You too, for that matter. Especially if they know what's good for them,\" She joked.\n\n\"And sure, I can let the boss know you were looking to talk to her. I've only bumped into her in passing so far, but I should still be good to pass it on. Just about the Tsuruchi who was going to marry your sister?\" She asked.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"There is no need to worry Kitsune-san,\" *She assures Tsuta not wishing to worry her. After all the prospect of travel as a thing of great excitement to Katsumi herself and the idea of seeing far away lands made her heart light with excitement. Though she has to restrain herself from laughing as the other red head tilts her head in curiousity. The gesture intimately familiar to Katsumi as the woman has to physically restrain herself not to mirror the action seen not only in herself, but many members of her direct family.*\n\n\"I believe my Father visited once before his gempukku, but that was many years ago and our family has not been able to venture so far south sense.\" *Katsumi admits with some sorrow though her face lightens at Tsuta's reassurance that the family would find welcome there.* \"It is my hope that in the coming years I can shoulder some of my Father's burden so he will be freer to travel.\" *Such a task should have fallen to her brother or sister, but now only she remained.*\n\n\"And thank you. Just the information about the Tsuruchi and my sister should be fine. If the kami favor me he will contact me when he arrives in the city, but on the off-chance there are complications if the Embassy could arrange such a meeting I would be grateful.\" *She murmurs with a small smile.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"All right, well, if you insist, then no worries. This is me not worrying!\" She grinned. Tsuta evidently seemed rather good at not worrying. Or at the very least like that was the impression she tried to give to others. \"Just make sure you give yourself the opportunity to come down and see Kyuden Kitsune for yourself., as well as your father. Don't ask me why, but I get the feeling you'd really appreciate it.\" Tsuta knew on some level that wasn't exactly something that she could control, or any Samurai, for that matter. Still, you hung on to the hopes that you could.\n\nShe then nodded to her request. \"Yeah, that'd be no trouble at all. I'll pass things on to the boss lady, and let her know to get in touch or set up a meeting.\""
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Thank you,\" *She murmured her smile bright and jade eyes glinting with mirth in the sunlight flecked shade where it danced over the two of them like dappled jewels.* \"I think I would enjoy seeing Kyuden Kitsune as well. Should the Fortunes favor me there's not a place in Rokugan I do not wish to visit at least once.\" *She admits though well aware such may never be in the cards.*\n\n\"Well perhaps not the Shadowlands, but I think that's more a healthy sense of self-preservation at play there.\" *Katsumi admits as she turns to Tsuta and offers a bow.* \n\n\"For now though I should best get back to my Embassy. There's still some matters there I need to attend to. Please allow me to treat you to tea next time we meet Kitsune-san?\" *She requests as the Magistrate straightens with a smile.*"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Sometimes I think it'd be nice to be a wanderer. Just... Live in the world, y'know what I mean?\" She seemed to keep things somewhat vague, not wanting to hint at anything that might qualify as a dereliction of duty. \"Shadowlands exempted, agreed there.\"\n\n*Maybe she's of a similar mind though...*\n\n\"Ah, but you're right. Duty calls. I'm certain you got some important affairs, and I suppose I oughta start earning my keep today.\" She looked towards the entrance to the embassy, making note that she'd have to track down Mai to pass on that message, but her gaze went right back to Katsumi at her invitation.\n\n\"I'd really like that, actually,\" She replied with a warm expression, bowing towards her. \"I'll hold you to it, Mirumoto-sama.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"The hawk is no less dutiful to it's master for yearning for the sky, but more loyal still for having felt the thrill of the hunt, the taste of fresh prey, and the wind upon it's feathers, and returned to the glove all the same.\" *The Dragon Magistrate murmurs jade eyes distant and focused upon the birds that winged over head. Taken fully by the moment of introspection. The low wind stirring red locks and leaving crimson strands fluttering about the woman's shoulders. Time seeming to grow sluggish like water overcome with frost as the woman turned green eyes, Dragon eyes, upon her distant cousin and smiled.*\n\n\"Please do Kitsune-san. It would bring me great pleasure.\" *Before turning on her heel and departing just as quietly as she had arrived.*"
}
] | 234 | 6,524 |
211.333333 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Lady Sun's light was a routine blessing, to be delivered each morning to the wondrous people of Rokugan. It was a shame then that so many of those same people were often still asleep, missing such a miracle - if a routine one.\n\nAs fortune would have it, some samurai within the Mantis embassy were awoken by gentle taps upon their doors in the hour before dawn. The same demure young man repeated the same words, exactly as he'd been commanded to, \"Esteemed samurai, I have a message from one Tsuruchi Choga-sama. He says that your presence is required in the gardens as soon you are able. Breakfast will be provided to you upon arrival.\"\n\nThe name might ring a bell as that of the instructor that Ambassador Mai requested, but he had not made it known to you that he had made it to the city, let alone the embassy.\n\nAs each of you would go about your morning rituals and ||presumably|| make your way to the gardens, it would be hard to ignore the small host of servants moving a table out and setting it with a small buffet of various sushi, rice, and fish - all seemingly **Very** Fresh - and piping hot tea.\n\nOne of the staff directs you to the table, which is currently devoid of the samurai who summoned you. \"Please, Tsuruchi-sama wished me to urge you all to have your fill. He will be here shortly.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_As lovely as the dawn and just as bright Kitsune Akari in all her curvaceous splendor was the first to arrive, one may think her and early riser but the truth was she had not slept the night before, having been 'out and about' in ways unseen by the masses, high up and out of sight on rooflines and awnings._\n\n_Such In-nin stealth was little more then exercise, to insure she wouldn't loose her edge in what amounted to 'downtime'. Regardless the Akari of now looked freshly roused from restful sleep, even if she was slightly less so._\n\n_Sitting as requested at the table she took the courtly amount of time to get herself settled in her full burnt orange kimono, before graciously accepting a cup of tea to politely occupy herself while she waisted for others to presumably join her._\n\n_If nothing else the caffeination provided by the tea would allow her to shed the outward appearance of being wakeful for actually being so._ ||Acting 3||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "If one was going to be meeting an esteemed sensei per *Their* Request, one must put in the effort to look their best for respect's sake. Sadao, when he arrived, looked not just handsome, but *Impeccable.* His hair was pulled up, pinned, and ribboned, cascading down his back in a smooth straight fall.\n\nHis make-up was subtle, but present. A paling of the face, a touch of shadow around the eyes, and just a hint of contour to pronounce his cheekbones and to impress his masculinity, for his style often bordered the line of androgyny.\n\nHis kimono was the embroidered teal of the Mantis colors, with the *Mon* Of the Yoritomo at the left breast. Dustings of blue and white in the images of crashing waves were sewn into the silk. His sleeves were together, hiding his hands as he made his way into the gardens. He bowed to those gathered - which at this moment only seemed to be a Kitsune he had not yet met, before taking a cushion to *Seiza* On and, per the sensei's invitation, helped himself to some tea.\n\nHe put this much work in because he wasn't coming to see somebody important, somebody important had called to see him. He wanted to give them the recognition they deserved. ||Etiquette 3||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kitsune Tsuta was dressed as she often did, her usualy jade green haori and black hakama, tied around the waist with reddish brown cord. For those who had seen her before, they would notice her usual braids were gone, replaced with a decidedly shorter cut which went just above her chin. It was all kept out of her face by a black headband. A white rabbit followed closely behind her into the room. She made her way to the table, exclusively paying attention to the rice and vegetables without partaking in any fish.\n\nShe felt a bit uncertain about the invitation; after all, in her correspondence with her brother, she had been learning more about courtly manners and the social game of Rokugan. She had not yet had an opportunity to demonstrate her learning, but she felt confident in what she was learning all the same. Still, other perspectives helped with learning, and as far as duties she was asked to partake in went, this was hardly so bad.\n\nShe moved to pour herself a cup of tea.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The weight of the early hour could be felt as the samurai assembled and began to claim their fill of breakfast. In a matter of minutes, a new sound slowly cut through the din of mealtime noises. While the soft crunching of dew-laden grasses could've been attributed to any of the myriad servants among the embassy, the rhythmic thump alongside it could not be mistaken for such.\n\nPassing into view between some of the larger, more obscuring foliage of the garden was a man of middle age. His short beard and wild, if bound back, hair gave the appearance of one who only tamed their appearance as much as propriety demanded of them. Similarly, his black kimono, adorned only with the mon of the Tsuruchi Bounty Hunters, had none of the vibrancy or extravagance one could expect from a courtly socialite or a younger, flashier samurai.\n\nUpon seeing those gathered, he attempted an appropriate bow that was stifled somewhat by the state of his left leg. It bent towards the crowd at an unnatural angle, the result of his knee having been shattered long ago, and the bow was only passable by virtue of a gnarled, inartistic length of wood that he was using as a cane.\n\n\"Students.\" He spoke as he stiffly resumed his usual posture and began to come closer. \"It is good to meet you finally. Ambassador Moshi-sama spoke well of each of you in her letters.\" He gingerly eased himself to a seated position and began arranging his plate from the dishes on offer.\n\n\"Tell me, has she given you any idea of what to expect from my tutelage?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "It would be untoward to look up at all, let alone meet the gaze or keep an eye on the old wounded leg of the Tsuruchi that made his way in. \n\nSadao kept his dark-eyed daze on his bowl, before taking a pickled vegetable of some kind, probably daikon, to much along with rice, fish and tea. There really was nothing like fish provided by the Mantis. \n\nHe wasn't certain who among those gathered was the highest in status, so he elected to let another answer the question. Play by the rules until you know you don't have to."
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "_Akari was surprised to see a Tsuruchi was to be their mentor, and someone she did not at least know of to boot. His manor of hasted formality and unassuming robes made her think of a Ronin, if true to be so long in the tooth in a profession that claims the young like a Gashadokuro, was a testament to his skill._\n\n_Not without pity Akari, went about pouring her mentor-to-be a cup of tea, following the rigid steps of the tea ceremony drilled into her by her mother whom was also Tsuruchi as Akari herself was and someways still is._ ||Emphases: Tea Ceremony (Etiquette)||\n\n\"We expect to be learned Sensei-Tsuruchi-san, as teacher it is for you decide the lessons there-in, is it not?\" _Akari spoke, her sultry tone played down as a matter of respect to him._"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta set her cup of tea down, bowing lowly to the older man. \"Good day, Tsuruchi-sama. I am Kitsune Tsuta,\" She spoke, getting in to the usual introductions. \"Our ambassador did mention that there were lessons concerning social maneuvering, as well as your letter. I'm certainly happy for the opportunity, however. My brother attended the Yoritomo Couriter School, and I've had the opportunity to learn from him. Getting to study from an even more experienced teacher is an honor.\"\n\nShe tried to ignore the bunny tugging on her Hakama, asking for attention."
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "It was when others had spoken, that Sadao would finally bow his head in a manner that would garner attention.\n\n\"This one is Yoritomo Sadao, a graduate of the Yoritomo courtier school. This one has not been informed as to the nature of Tsuruchi-sensei's visit, but his esteemed personage is welcomed and a blessing to those of us here this morning.\"\n\nHe was composed, polite, practiced. A testament to the work he put in to his dress, make-up and hair. Yet for the briefest moment his gaze fell on the bunny. \n\nEverybody loved fluffy bunnies."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Choga gratefully accepted the tea poured by Akari. If anyone was lacking tea at this point or their cup had run low, he would pour for them while listening to the various replies - albeit asking them to deliver the cup to him so that he didn't have to rise again.\n\nDuring the approach, the man hadn't seemed to pay the students all that much mind, but he focused intently on each of them as they said their piece.\n\n\"It is nice to meet you all. You are correct, Kitsune Akari-san, that I will be making such decisions. I only wondered what Moshi-sama had let slip. While Kitsune Tsuta-san is closest, her answer is some distance from the mark.\"\n\nA brief pause occurred as he consumed a few pieces of fish. \"I, Tsuruchu Choga, have spent much of my career as a yoriki to a Mantis clan magistrate. My talents were plied towards making myself able to fit in anywhere and among anyone. I am here to teach you the art of getting what you want through social deception.\"\n\nHis expression flat, he offered a question. \"Why do you believe I would teach you these skills, besides that someone of prominence asked me to?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta did feel herself tense just slightly. She wasn't fool enough to think that courtiers did their business just through speaking the full, unvarnished truth. Still, it was a bit odd to her that he would be quite so open about trying to teach deception. Her mind cycled back to a previous mission she had undertaken; she was desperately hoping that was going to be a one off. She would serve the clan, certainly, but to be pigeonholed into dishonorable work was one of the last things she desired.\n\nShe would not give any insult to the instructor, though, even if she was starting to grow concerned ||Cool under pressure||. \"I would imagine for the betterment of the clan. Given where we are, a direct approach isn't always feasible or desirable.\" She left it at that; a diplomatic response acknowledging the reality of the city while displaying loyalty to clan and kin.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao shut his eyes and set his teacup down with only the lightest sound of cup on saucer. He put his hands together, disappearing into his unified sleeves. He looked the picture of a contemplative noble, deep in the throes of introspection.\n\n\"The Mandate of Heaven establishes an order, one that all must follow, that all must walk. But does the walker choose the path, or the path the walker? It is the duty of the *Buke* To serve. We must be as steadfast as the mountain. As flexible as the bamboo in the wind. As adaptable as the flow of water from frozen mountaintop to the river just a *Li* Away.\" He was going somewhere with this, he had to be. \n\n\"We are tasked to walk amongst all of society, from the unenviable *Burakumin* To, perhaps, in the presence of *Tenno,* Himself. We must, in our duties, be able to flow as the stream to meet and overcome any turn, dip, or dam. A samurai's greatest judge is themselves, but their greatest honor is to dutifully serve their lord however they require.\"\n\nThen in a sudden flourish, he unfurled his sleeves, one hand unfolding a fan with a *Snap,* The other raising his teacup in a grand, overdramatic display akin to some sailors at port. He then laughed, a bright, cheerful, and strangely powerful sound. His tone was no longer subdued, full of inflection and a rough-around-the-edges coastal gravel to it. \n\n\"In the end, it is the very thing Tsuruchi-sensei has stated. We do what we must as those of prominence have demanded!\"\n\nMaybe he could be good at *Kabuki.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Choga chuckled to himself at Sadao's grandiose display. \"A bit wordy, but thoughtfully put. And Kitsune Tsuta-san, you raise a good point about our local limitations. None of these are poor reasons, but...\"\n\nTrailing off, he took a long pull of his tea and set it back down before continuing.\n\n\"In my experience, the strongest wisdom is found in the shortest truths. I am here to teach you all because a cost in sweat is better than a cost in blood.\" As he spoke this, his gaze seemed particularly distant. \"An ideal samurai is also a steward of their lord's resources, ensuring their assets are used efficiently and with minimal losses.\"\n\nAt that, he seemed to pull back into the present. In a moment of self awareness, his posture stiffened and a scowl flashed across his face. ||Investigation 4 or Courtier 3 to recognize that Choga is frustrated at his temporary lapse before he masters himself again; he is not frustrated with any of you.||\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "Akari got a sense of something amiss in Choga-sensi's demeanor but he was too worn and rugged of temperament for her to pin exactly what it was she noticed. ||Courtier 2 :(||\n\nTalk of 'dishonorable' work made the kunoichi half of her persona chuckle internally, thought outwardly her courtier persona kept a straight face, feigning just enough surprise at the mention of tasks befitting wako then bushi, and the implications of them. ||Acting 3||\n\n\"Bushi do as our master requires, to be Samurai is to be one who serves. If such is the need of our master such is our duty to see done what must.\" _She replied._"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao folded his hands across his lap, not hiding his pride for a brief moment. \"Of course it was wordy. Our foothold in the courts needs to be forced, and to distract the ears that appreciate pretty words while we get other business done...\" He let the implication sit.\n\nUnlike the others, he seemed content to use his manners and sense of personality as a tool. After Choga straightened, he did the same, his *On* Returning in a practiced set of his face. \"This one is ready and eager to receive Tsuruchi-sensei's wisdom.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Tsuta resisted the urge to roll her eyes. She didn't think even her brother was quite so wordy. Still, if he was impressing the teacher, that was only going to be better for them all in the long run. \n\nThe shift in demeanor, however, certainly didn't escape Tsuta's notice ||Courtier 5||. The statement on its own was nothing controversial. Samurai who were wasteful of their lords' resources either didn't stick around for long, or their lords didn't. Something about that seemed to strike a chord with him, though. Tsuta would have to make a mental note of that going forward. For now, though, it definitely wouldn't make a good impression to try to bring it up and drag it out in front of everyone else.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "As he finished recomposing himself, he nodded, acknowledging the simple truth of Akari's words before replying to Sadao.\n\n\"Then you shall have it... After breakfast concludes.\" He gestured to the spread before them. \"Please, all of you have your fill. Make sure not to overeat. I may have an assignment after we talk theory and it would be a shame to be drowsy on your feet in public.\"\n\nThe sensei grew quiet and stayed so through the rest of the meal, content to let the others idly chat around him. Some minutes after everyone had seemingly had enough, he managed to roughly rise. \"Come. There is too much garden to stay here all day.\"\n\nHe assumed a glacial pace as he wandered the grounds, seemingly without much plan or thought. Not long into it, he spoke up. \"Our first lesson is recognizing how to manipulate a mark. Everyone, samurai or otherwise, has something that can be used to steer them. My peers among the bounty hunters have a handy acronym we use to keep these in mind.\"\n\nHe paused his own explanation briefly, stopping to smell one of the flowers on display. \"MICE.\" Gently, he tapped the petals as though counting along. \"Money, Ideology, Coercion, and Ego. Each tactic comes with its own risks and considerations, but all have their time and place.\"\n\n\"Which of these do you imagine apply to your local Thunder Guard?\" He turned to face the group. \"You may speak freely, with no fear of offense.\"\n\nThe Thunder Guard was loyal to the city and, as it currently stood, the Imperial administration. Were they having this talk beyond embassy bounds, it could be exceedingly dangerous.\n\nBut they weren't and he wished to make that exceedingly clear.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "\"For the Thunder Guard?\" Asked Sadao, who was still new, and only running off of presuppositions and his own ideas. \"If I am to understand those who work in Scorpion lands and under Imperial personages, it would be Ideology and Coercion more than most. There is little time for ego when you have the Shosuro and the Otomo breathing down your neck, and yet, your needs will be met, so little requirement for money.\"\n\nThen he shrugged. \"But I admit this is only a guess.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Nah... That's exactly why money is the motivator there,\" She replied. Her tone was perhaps a bit more straightforward than it was normally. She still couldn't quite decide whether they were being asked to do the work of shinobi or courtiers. She was at the very least willing to see where things were going to go.\n\n\"You said it yourself. The prestigious families around here are expecting to keep a tight lid on them, and they're supposed to be representing them. They have authority, sure. At the same time, we know a lot of business is expected to pay a bit extra to them; something someone in that position isn't supposed to be seeking out. And we know with those high standards, they're supposed to take their status as enough. But it isn't for a lot of them. That's why it'll be money that motivates them.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Spot-on, Kitsune Tsuta-san.\" He tipped his head in acknowledgement. \"It is an open secret that the Thunder Guard relishes bribes and kickbacks. While the position is prestigious, at least on paper, the stipends provided aren't sufficient to take advantage of many of the luxuries available in a city like this. By skimming off the top, they make their work easier and their time off more... Memorable.\"\n\nHe spoke calmly and deliberately, as though he couldn't be bothered to have an emotional standpoint on the topic. Years of being in the field in similar circumstances had taken their toll.\n\n\"Ego is also involved, somewhat, because they have not been historically held to the standards of their post. Now they think they can get away with nearly anything - and they aren't wrong. In place of attentive supervision, they have become their own masters. If you challenge that power or pose a meaningful threat of bringing the Governor's eyes down upon them, they will react in the span of a heartbeat.\"\n\nHe paused a beat for emphasis before continuing. \"Knowing these motivations and the place they have carved out for themselves is important. They can be used as levers with which to steer their behavior.\"\n\nAbruptly, he switched topics. \"For example, you can learn much by being perceived as a friend. How might you leverage this knowledge to cultivate useful contacts inside the Thunder Guard?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "Akari had kept quiet since departing the feast, she hadn't eaten much as the diet of a shinobi was surprisingly strict to avoid 'unwanted odors'.\n\nAs Choga-sensi's posed a query she chuckled to herself, hiding it with the ornate fan she was using to keep cool, her mother had taught her near the same principle in her training, save there was a fifth to the acronym; Seduction.\n\nM.I.C.E.S. Was a core part of Kunoichi training as to manipulate another was to understand how to avoid such yourself, and people were far more malleable then they'd admit, especially in the heat of passion.\n\n\"They wish to truly experience the city, do they not Choga-sensi? Why not cut out the middle man and simply give them an experience they'll never forget... Personally.\" She said with a sultry giggle making it obvious to all but the most chaste or dull _exactly_ what she meant."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"There's some value in that, Kitsune-san,\" She replied, glancing to her clanmate. While she hated to admit it, that approach had served her rather well in a recent encounter with a certain woman from a minor clan. It was not a tactic she intended on employing outside of very specific circumstances, but it was good to be aware of what tools one had at their disposal in a pinch.\n\nShe then returned her attention to Choga, perhaps feeling a bit more confident after having answered the first question well. \"As for cultivating the idea that we're friends... Well, if we're building on the money discussion, perhaps making the delivery of 'contributions' from our affiliated businesses ourselves. The occasional extra gift making its way to the right people within the guard. After all, if you want to tame an animal, giving treats is always a good start, right?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao clearly did not have the lived experience that the others may have, and bowed his head, taking in the wisdom of the others. He did admit he was still new here, and was guessing.\n\n\"Being perceived as a friend to the Thunder Guard as a Mantis has a number of avenues of influence. We can get that which many mainlanders cannot, or have not, dreamt of beyond stories of their betters indulging in them. Samurai are people, and people are fallible. Discover what they enjoy, whether at a sake house, sumotori match, or other such frivolities. To smooth access to them, or encourage more enjoyable experiences for them, can encourage their favor, if not their loyalty. We have the means and the access.\""
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Choga cleared his throat upon hearing Akari's proposed tactic, but waited until everyone had finished before speaking up. \"Some Fortune must watch over me to have provided such a crop of students. You might be surprised how resilient some can be to this sort of talk, but you lot have taken to it rather well so far. Good.\"\n\nA grunt of pleased acknowledgement later, he began making his way through the garden again, trusting you to follow. \"It is important to know your strengths, as Yoritomo-san's answer suggests, as well as to play to your target's weaknesses per the observations of the Kitsune among us. I approve.\"\n\n\"But I must advise caution regarding more... Intimate maneuvers, Kitsune Akari-san. They can be just as effective as other methods, if not moreso in favorable conditions, but it happens all too often that one side or the other becomes... Inconveniently attached. Tread lightly.\"\n\nHis feet stopped gaining ground as he arrived before the embassy's shrine, soon to be more impressive once Lady Sun crested over the horizon and shone her approval upon it. Instruction was briefly interrupted as he bowed towards the shrine as deeply as his condition would allow. Then he continued.\n\n\"As such adept students, I assume none of you will have any issue answering my next question. What **Is** Honor to you?\" Turning from the shrine, he levelled a thoughtful gaze upon those assembled.\n\n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lessyloo",
"message": "Akari sensed that the word honor held a special significance to Choga-sensi beyond merely what it meant to those who serve such as Samurai. Still his words betrayed admiration of those he spoke in the capacity of mentor, a smile crept onto her stained lips for she intended to excel in whatever trials he would lay before them. ||Weakness: Overconfident||\n\n\"Duty, Choga-sensi. Without duty there is no honor, without honor there is no service, without service we Bushi are nothing.\" She spoke, fanning herself ever so much to bring attention to her a tactic she often used to keep a mark's eyes on the prize, assuming her own 'prizes' weren't the focal point already.\n\nThough others here may shy away from such Akari spoke true when she said Duty was everything, for in any form be it Bushi, Shimobi, or other there was nothing she was unwilling to do, no sin beyond contemplation, no act to craven or dishonorable it meant furthering the cause of the Mantis.\n\nSuch was the way of Shinobi, Those Who Endure."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "If the question being asked of her and the implications ||Courtier 5|| didn't raise any alarm bells, her fellow Kitsune's decidedly Scorpion-like answer certainly did.\n\nThere was no denying it now. \n\nThe one mission to deal with the Otter wasn't going to be a one off.\n\nTsuta couldn't claim that she had the most orthodox interpretation of Bushido and honor. It was in her family's nature, after all, to hold nature and the other creatures which occupied it in higher regard than most. Her ranger training did instill in her the importance of discretion, but that was a different matter than the work being hinted at. Even her usual cool, detached nature would be unable to completely hide the discomfort that was growing with in her.\n\nShe took a moment before answering, steadying herself.\n\n\"Honor is a set of principles by which we should all live, and that makes us and the world we live in better. It respects that the world works best with ordered, and us all fulfilling our roles.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Akari's words, in particular, seemed to frustrate the previously placid man. \"If Duty is all that honor is, you mean to say that the other tenets of Bushido are merely pen upon paper - no bearing beyond that of the page itself?\" He spoke sternly, his voice carrying a firmness it had lacked previously. \"To treat one tenet so is to see the forest without acknowledging the trees.\"\n\nHe huffed \"Our clan is young, but surely my fellow sensei are better than this...\" His words trailed off.\n\nHolding a hand up to temporarily forestall further talk, he spent a long minute with his eyes closed as he sought to calm himself.\n\nThere was never an apology, only his words upon opening his eyes. \"To me, honor is the weight of righteous action. It is stoked or stamped out by one's adherence to bushido. However, just as a samurai cannot be **Only** One thing-\" His eyes cut briefly to Akari, \"-it is horribly impractical to be all things at all times.\"\n\n\"If our world is an ocean, Bushido is the vessel we use to stay afloat as we sail its waters. Currents change, winds shift, and you will capsize if you fail to use the parts of Bushido that the situation demands.\"\n\n\"Honor is knowing that you used the right tools at the right time.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "Sadao was quiet, his eyes shut as his mind worked. Perhaps he thought overlong on the question, but such was the way of philosophy. Finally he spoke, his voice low but clear.\n\n\"In keeping with the traditions of the Yoritomo, this one perceives honor as a scale that weighs a man against the world. The evils in it - desire, fear, regret - begin to lay upon one side like so many stones. The samurai holds the burden in service, and if their honor is strong, they can weather the weight. Yet we are merely men, and sometimes falter against the weight.\"\n\n\"One must be assured that their actions are righteous. If given from a higher authority, there is no doubt that such things are true in the moment. One must be brave but not foolhardy, to consider not just themselves but the world and the others around them, from their betters all the way down to the *Hinin.* Through it, they must be true to themselves. Sincerity is the greatest tool to hold that scale, for if a samurai believes in what they do and that it is right, then it is right, even if others may say differently. The greatest judge of that scale is the samurai that stands upon it.\"\n\nOf course it was uncouth to use such merchant's terms as scales in polite company, but Sadao felt the analogy stood."
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "For now, Tsuta would settle for being relieved that her answer hadn't provoked the sensei's ire. She was willing to cling on to any positive that she could get. She did make note, however, of how Sadao had waited to hear the sensei's explanation before answering; a rather clever approach. It gave her something to focus on rather than the uncomfortable realization of what these lessons were about, and what it possibly meant for the kind of work she would be assigned in the future. As no new question had been asked, she decided to stick with remaining silent for now, just listening to the sensei and the others.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Had it not been clear that Sadao's delay was from giving the question serious thought, he might have found himself caught up in further remarks from their instructor. Instead, it appeared to mollify him somewhat.\n\n\"It pleases me to note that you and Kitsune Tsuta-san have given this more consideration. All of us, myself included, still have much time left in which to grow and build upon our perceptions of the world. Perceptions that, quite often, are more immediately impactful than the truth of the matter.\"\n\nAt this moment, as though planned for in advance, the early morning rays began to cast from far over the horizon. The shrine, built with this time of day in mind, cast myriad reflections and almost seemed to glow softly under Lady Sun's gaze.\n\n\"People, places, ideas... They all are often more than we actually realize.\" He pressed on, gesturing to the shrine behind him. \"To those who know how to find truth, this is a boon. To those who don't... Appearances can be very deceiving. How you choose to conduct yourself or even dress yourself is no different.\" He paused for emphasis. \"Come closer, all of you.\"\n\nIn a conspiratorial whisper, Choga continued. \"I have an assignment for you all with the Ambassador's blessing. Use it to practice the skills I have started to teach you this day. And believe me, I will know if you don't.\" His expression had hardened over the last few moments. \"One of our embassy's ashigaru, Kuro, has committed an offense against us and does not suspect we are aware. Visit the Red Lantern and return with the truth of what he has done. And do not worry - I have made arrangements to ensure he is caught and we are free from the danger of his actions, regardless of whether you succeed today. Take this chance to learn with minimal risk at play.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Well now, this assignment wasn't quite so bad. \n\nIt was easy to get behind going after a traitorous Ashigaru. The matter was also one more of investigation and discovery rather than any sort of dishonorable work. In addition, as much as the lesson was orchestrated, there might be value in looking at what he did and why, so that the lesson could be learned in dealing with other Ashigaru.\n\n\"It will be done, Tsuruchi-sensei,\" She spoke, bowing towards him. She then motioned to the others. \"Right. We getting a move on, then?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "statik1551",
"message": "The first thoughts that crossed Sadao's mind were questioning the value in sending so many samurai after a single ashigaru, but then, this was a lesson. Satisfied in that wisdom, and knowing that an ashigaru may well be pliable in the face of... Numerous avenues, Sadao folded his hands in his lap and bowed his head foreward in assent.\n\n\"Hai,\" Was his quiet, composed response."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Choga shifted his weight and thumped the end of his cane on the ground as if to terminate their gathering. \"I look forward to seeing what you are capable of, students. May Lady Sun guide the worthy to glory. Return here when you are satisfied with what you have uncovered or when dusk approaches - whichever comes first.\"\n\nThe weathered man began to head back into the embassy proper so as not to delay his pupils with such trivialities as delivering their own formal goodbyes.\n\n||"
}
] | 198 | 6,974 |
222.444444 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Fuyuko left the Ide Residence and made her way along the streets of the Noble Quarter, a bundle of silks tucked into her arm and a paper with notes on it in hand. Her lady had refused to visit the clothier in person due to them being Scorpion and requiring close contact. Kazuko had many insecurities, but being in an overall state of vulnerability around a Bayushi was at least understandable given her history with the clan. So it was that she took measurements within the Residence and noted what changes needed to be made, then would take the garments to Flowing Designs and get them tailored based off of these changes.\n\nFuyuko had not told Kazuko of the nature of the adjustments, of course. Nothing immodest, but enough to show off her form in a way her lady seldom did. Perhaps a tiny bit of shoulder too. Not scandalous, but . . . Nice. Kazuko needed more nice looking clothes, even if she'd disagree. *I look best in armor* Wouldn't cut it anymore.\n\nAs she wound her way to the shop, she hummed a quiet tune to herself. A song she and Kazuko had sung often when they were children, before she had been robbed of that gift. Today was a good day, and best of all things were very safe in the Noble Quarter. Here she didn't have to worry about being accosted by random samurai or firemen looking for a bribe or some such. It was nice and peaceful here.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "And from the crowds of people that had passed in the Noble Quarter had been a prey. One that not only behaved much like her clan's animal, but looked like one as well. Almost towering over the crowd with her brick wall stature, she was peering at Fuyuko with her golden eyes. As if she was a beast in tall grass. So when she had seen the female she approached, carefully of course as she was one to often scare people. It was not of her nature to stalk people around, nor waiting for them to leave their safe haven and ambush them, but this had some sort of priority in Miu's mind. \n\nHimiko had told her about the translator, what she had looked like and how she acted, even what she had sounded like. After all Miu and Fuyuko had never met before. Yet, after earlier experience with people it had ended in a chase scene, something she had not wished for right now. \n\nSo when the Lion came close enough to visibly differentiate herself from the crowd she had cleared her throat and politely asked. *\"Excuse me ma'am, could you perhaps help me out?\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The poor woman was shaken out of her reverie with the presence of a massive, imposing Lion samurai. Fuyuko had met many a Lion commander with her lady during the lead up to and months after the War of the Plains; none of those encounters were particularly pleasant. The only exceptions thus far were Zenmai and the new Lion Ambassador, though she seemed rather stereotypically bloodthirsty beneath her youth to Fuyuko. She let out a brief gasp of surprise before dropping down in a perfectly respectful bow. \"Greetings honorable Lion-sama. H-how might this one be of service to you, samurai-sama?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had tilted her head at the rather surprised expression as the lion sometimes forgot the tower of a being she was. She had rubbed the back of her head with an more embarrassed expression as she apologized. Bowing down as well. *\"My apologies, I wished not to scare you, although I often forget my attire does so.\"* Miu once more apologized. The friendly golden eyes had gazed at Fuyuko. Then one more bow from her came. *\"I wish to not put you to work on days like these but I wish to request you something.\"* Miu rose again as the golden eyes were almost pleading like a puppy. A warm smile radiated from her. *\"My name is Kitsu Miu of the lion clan. If I am not mistaken you must be Fuyuko-sama right?\"* \n\nMiu had questioned. Making sure she had not confronted the wrong person. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "*Fuyuko-*Sama*? From a Lion to a heimin? Oh Shinjo protect me from this trap. Please don't kill me for saying the wrong thing. Not here, not until I've finished teaching Hisa-chan how to interpret.*\n\nThe demeanor of calm deference remained for now. Fuyuko kept her eyes respectfully downcast as the Kitsu introduced herself. She was already short in stature, and the monstrous Lion combined with the lack of her lady there made her seem even tinier. Meekly she responded. \"Yes, Lion-sama. That is this one's name. Please, you provide the half-person before you with undeserved honor. Forgive me for not acting sooner to prevent it.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had shook her head as her face turned almost as red as her hair. She however smiled it off grandly. *\"Please, it is my fault. I was afraid I had approached not the person I was looking for. But thank you Fuyuko-san. I know it is out of the customary to do so.\"* Miu had elaborated. Making sure Miu was the one at fault and not Fyuko. *\"Uh- Although I realize me approaching you this way is also uncustomary. Apologies.\"* Miu spoke. Come on Miu, straight to the point. \n\n*\"I have a strange request. I have met your master, Utaku-sama at a teahouse when you were not near her. There she agreed for me to learn small words in the sign language you interpret for her.\"* She displayed some of the signs Kazuko had taken the time to teach her. Miu had clearly practiced some of the words better than the others. She managed to signed 'hello' and 'thank you' properly by now. *\"Now I wish to surprise Utaku-sama.\"* Miu had bowed down once more and held it for a moment. *\"Would you please teach me some more Fuyuko-san?\"* The lion rose. She was genuine. At least she hoped she would be in the eyes of the heimin. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Well, such things are the purview of the one who this one serves, my lady Utaku Kazuko-sama. If an honorable samurai such as yourself wishes to learn such a thing then they would have to make a request from her.\" The life of a heimin was a perilous one. Today Fuyuko was reminded of that more than any other. On the one hand, she had a duty to obey her betters. On the other, a member of a clan that at best her lady was at parallel purpose with was seeking to *Surprise* Her by learning the very private means of communication the two shared. The only others who understood were family members and to a lesser extent the rest of Fuyuko's family. Obey and be punished by Kazuko; disobey and be punished by a Lion. Neither option was preferable.\n\nShe shrunk into herself even further. Why did this have to happen today of all days? All she wanted to do was go to the shops to help her lady. Now she might get executed by a bloodthirsty Lion, using false friendliness to pry at her secrets! Maybe, maybe she could calm them down enough to take a hand. Yes, she could still serve Kazuko without a hand.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had tilted her head and then nodded to the explanation of Fuyuko. *\"Then there will be no surprise, that is alright however. Do you think a letter would do?\"* Miu had smiled. She had signed the word thank you to Fuyuko. *\"Apologies I came here to bother you. I hope I have not ruined your day nor mood.\"* Miu spoke, bowing down once more to the heimin. There was no other way then to accept this. After all she did not come here to terrorize the heimin. Even though she had done that already without realizing it. \n\n*\"May the Kami shine bright upon you Fuyuko-san. Utaku-sama is lucky to have somebody as honorable as you.\"* The tall female smiled and with that she returned the freedom of going shopping to the girl. Miu in the meantime had not left a frown but only a smile. She was already thinking about the things she wished to write in a letter to the unicorn ambassador. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Yes, yes a letter would suffice. Utaku-sama would prefer to know such things in advance in order to better schedule her affairs.\" Also, Kazuko *Hated* Surprises. Fuyuko was not about to tell Miu that, of course. \"Of course you have not ruined my day. To be able to serve a samurai of a great clan such as yourself in this way is all one wishes in life.\"\n\nWith that the Lion walked away with a smile. Fuyuko stared with carefully masked shock as the Kitsu disappeared among the crowd as swiftly as she had arrived. That was not something she wished to repeat, and definitely an event she would have to report to Kazuko. That the Lion Clan was keeping such a close eye on the Residence to note the coming and going of its servants was *Very* Concerning.\n\nIt seemed she was out of danger for the time being, though she no longer wanted to spend any longer out here than she had to. Picking up her pace, Fuyuko began to hum to herself again, a little shakier now, and continued determinedly towards Flowing Designs. The sooner she got there, the sooner she could be safe.\n\n||"
}
] | 236 | 2,002 |
208.764706 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Obscured by trees and ringed by walls, the Bayushi estate presented a perfectly proper, yet perfectly archetypical Scorpion manor. The trees cast the grounds into permanent shade and the gardens were modest for lack of proper light. \n\nThe house proper consisted of several comfortable sets of apartments meant for the use of any Bayushi. Up to a dozen samurai could be comfortably, if closely, housed together. Like Kyuden Bayushi itself walls could be repositioned as necessary to give the residents the privacy they needed or open up the floor plan for easier meetings. \n\nToday Kaori was sitting outside in the shaded rock garden, enjoying the cool breeze as the trees filtered the dust from the air. Her swords were laid out before her on a cloth and she was doing maintenance, her fingers moving with the unthinking surety of countless hours. \n\nHer servant sat to one side, waiting with the patience of stone. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "This was new territory for Kotori. Not just visiting the Bayushi Estate—she has been ensconced in the Shosuro Palace since her arrival, as it made overseeing the bathhouse easier—but also this business of potentially having a friend. Multiple friends, even.\n\nBayushi Kaori was an enigma to her. Sure, Kotori had heard the rumors of the assassin's exploits and viciousness, but she'd not yet witnessed anything of the kind, at least not yet. And so, those rumors stayed rumors in her mind. Really though, Kotori wanted to get to know the other woman better. There was plenty to admire about her 'cousin'; she was beautiful, poised, intelligent, and extremely capable. \n\nThe first step would be learning to be more capable, and so Kotori hurried through the garden as far as her attire would allow. She smiled when she saw Kaori, slowing her steps and taking a few breaths.\n\n\"Good morning, Bayushi-san!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The fingers of her hand twitched at the sudden voice, but only Kotori was light of foot enough to approach so quietly, and naive enough to not make some sound to announce her approach to the deadly Scorpion. She closed her eyes, cleared her thoughts, and set down the brush before turning to face her cousin. \"Kotori-san, don't you look lovely? Welcome to my morning. Do you want refreshment? Tea or a snack? Or do you have something for me?\"\n\nHer eyes flicked to the smaller woman's hands, no letters or missives, *No arrest warrants*, she hated how her body sagged a little with relief when she didn't see a dozen ashigaru behind her cousin. \n\nTori rose, prepared to leave them to their schemes or fetch snacks or otherwise be of service."
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "\"You are much too kind, Bayushi-san. I hope to conduct myself half so gracefully as you.\"\n\nSomething about the nicety made her blush and her heart thump. Maybe it was that gorgeous women did not often pay her such compliments. She bit her lower lip to restrain her smile.\n\nSlender, empty hands were raised and fingers wiggled. \"I brought only my tessen. Anything more seemed... Superfluous for such a novice as myself.\" \n\nShe even smiled at Tori, nodding her head politely. \n\"I am very excited to be under your tutelage, Bayushi-san. Thank you for taking time to teach me.\" And now, she bowed, very deeply, her sincerity almost palpable.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Oh do you prefer the tessen?\" Kaori's head tilted slightly even as she settled back down to clear up her swords. \"That can be worked with. I can do terrible things with a good fan. There's a couple of vendors in the city who sell such things.\" \n\nShe rose and carried the swords over to a rack at the edge of the garden. \"I will begin with the very most basic, useful application of a fan, so you may begin to be dangerous before we start the advanced techniques. Tori, fetch some trainers. Now you say you have no experience with violence right?\"\n\nShe snapped her own fan open and closed, a plain thing with a simple clan mon painted on it."
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "\"I... Do not know *What* I prefer, to be honest.\" She gave a sheepish smile, rubbing her forearm absently like a guilty child. \"I was not allowed to learn any martial arts. My guardian was an unyielding man, on that front.\"\n\nShe stepped closer to Kaori, producing from her obi a menhari gata, holding it out towards her new sensei, held cradled in her palms. \"Rokugo-san gifted these to me, so that I might protect myself. But other than perhaps clipping someone on the head, I don't know the first thing about how to use it.\"\n\n\"You make everything look so effortless.\" A sincere, admiring smile crossed her face as she watched Kaori toy with her fan. \"I know that it surely has taken countless hours of practice, but isn't that the height of skill, to make things look easy?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Whacking someone with the iron fan is fun, but not something you should make a habit of,\" Kaori said, brandishing her own fan like a baton. \"You are a little thing, barely more than a child. With all your strength and the right angle you *Might* Break my wrist if you caught me over-reaching, but such things take excellent timing and no small amount of luck. It's good for swatting away a groping hand, but in your case it is better to play the victim and draw them in.\"\n\nShe held up her own fan, a simple wooden thing, and twisted. The joint broke, paper tore. Now she held a shard in either hand. \"Observe! A harmless fan one may carry before the Son of Heaven. Yet now it is two daggers. *This* Is what I will teach you. Bayushi Yuto, Kami bless him, has probably never considered such a thing in all his life.\"\n\nTori reappeared bearing a bundle in one hand and several training knives in the other. Kaori pointed at the cloth-wrapped bundle, the servant bowed and presented it, and with a sharp movement Kaori slammed both shards of wood cleanly through. \n\n\"Either of those blows would be mortal if a shugenja was not present,\" She said as Tori held up what appeared to be a heavy pillow for Kotori to inspect. \"And that is what I will teach you! The blade requires very little strength to be fatal, if you are swift and sure. But it is difficult to put a knife in the right spot. So let this be your first lesson: you must *Never* Let them see your knife. Endure any abuse, any discomfort, any indignity. Let your strike be swift, and do not cease to attack until the threat is destroyed. Do you understand?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "Kotori remained silent as their first lesson began. \n\nA small part of her hated to see the fan destroyed for the purposes of demonstration, but it did not seem to affect Kaori in the slightest. The other woman had a very business-like approach to this whole thing, explaining clearly and concisely and without the philosophical puzzles that many bushi seemed to espouse. *The sword is a reflection of one's soul* And *The blade must move like water* And the like. Perhaps all of that was true for proper duels, but if one was resorting to fashioning a weapon out of a fan, there seemed more pressing concerns than the potentially aqueous state of a katana. \n\nOne hand flew to her mouth as Kaori struck lightning quick, jabbing the ruined fan pieces into the pillow like it was nothing at all. When Tori presented the pillow, she reached out and touched the impromptu daggers carefully, feeling the indentations puckered around the wooden slats. \n\n\"How fearsome.\" She spoke with appropriately hesitant admiration, looking back up at Kaori again.\n\n\"Never let them see your knife.\" The instruction was repeated, and she nodded. Her expression had seldom ever been so serious and focused.\n\n\"Where are the most effective spots? As you said, I am not strong, and I would imagine I would only get one chance to, er, deploy my weapon if necessary. The eyes? The throat?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"In time you will practice targeting important areas,\" Kaori flicked her hair in a businesslike way and took one of the training daggers from Tori. \"I will teach you the places to cut, to stab, to twist and strike. But that's advanced, and that's the art of *Murder* Which I will not teach irreverently.\" \n\nShe acknowledged the informal nature of the lesson with a smirk. \n\n\"No, today you learn what is commonly thought of as self-defense. Your goal is not to kill whomever attacks you, or even to score a telling blow necessarily. Your *Only* Goal is to break contact, to get away, to flee, to buy yourself time for one of my talents to arrive, or if all else fails, to mark your assailant so I may identify him and avenge him later. And to this end you use a dagger in each hand. Like this, see? Both down. Your reach is not enough to be worth extending by holding the blade forward. You will be seized. When that happens, draw your daggers in either hand and commence to stabbing.\" \n\nShe demonstrated a furious onslaught into the air. \"Have you ever seen one of those filthy little house cats fighting? How they swipe as fast as they can with their claws out? This is what you imitate, this is the Way of the Little Cat. Both daggers down, alternating swipes, attack whatever is closest and easiest. You will tear a determined attacker to ribbons if they allow you.\" \n\nPassing two trainers to her tiny cousin she added, \"Don't try it now, but for the full effect, the Way of the Little Cat requires you to shriek with as much energy as the cats. You want attention, you want help, you want *Me*.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "\"I do not wish to learn those particular skills, if I do not have to. As you said, I need to be able to defend myself. Real fighting is better left to those with the skills for it.\"\n\nSmall hands were lifted in mimicry of Kaori's attacking posture, nodding again as the slightly taller woman instructed. It was a wholly unfamiliar stance to her.\n\n\"The Way of the Little Cat.\" Again the musician repeated the words, and she nodded. When she accepted the training daggers, she tested the weight of them; she turned them to hold them as Kaori has demonstrated, taking a few uncertain swipes at the air. \n\n*The Scorpion strikes\nSilently. The smallest of \nThem are most deadly.*\n\nA poet Kotori was not, but the few lines that sprang to mind almost unbidden were already rearranging themselves into notes and chords. Kaori was an inspiring woman in many ways.\n\n\"I suppose footwork is inconsequential for this, unless it is to aid in my retreat?...Sensei?\" A little grin flashed across her face.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Ideally you stand like this,\" Kaori demonstrated a bladed stance. \"This is most stable. Someone attempting to seize you usually tries to push you back or pull you towards them. Here you have enough stability. But in truth you'll be shoved either direction. Stance is less important than stepping without tripping over your feet. We'll get to that later.\" \n\nShe considered the tiny Bayushi critically before saying, \"Wait, your sleeves are in the way.\" \n\nFrom her obi she produced two cords. \"I use these to bind my sleeves when I anticipate combat. While I can fight nearly as well without them, this gives me added protection from glancing attacks. Let me see your forearms.\""
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "\"This position is a bit like some dances.\" She commended and stepped into the indicated position, bouncing just a tiny bit on the balls of her feet to test her own balance. The practice weapons were raised as well, again trying to get a feel for such an unfamiliar movement. When addressed however, she immediately stopped and straightened up; with demure obedience, she held her arms out to the sides to let Kaori do as she will. \n\nHer forearms were slender and pale, free of scars and with only a fading bruise on the left. Clearly neither the hands nor arms of a warrior.\n\n\"I thought about wearing a hakama, but I thought this made more sense, since this is what I normally wear.\" She gestured at the still somewhat provocative; sure, it provided more mobility than a 'proper' kimono, but it was still a far cry from highly mobile. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"It will do,\" Kaori wrapped the sleeve around the slender forearm before she began a complex series of knots, forming the cord into a pattern not unlike a fishing net that bound the sleeve down from wrist to elbow. \"There is a saying among the ashigaru to train as you fight, and it is not a bad concept for informal lessons.\" \n\nShe gave the knot a little tug to make it secure before she moved to the other side. \"This *Is* An art form, known as shibari. It was derived from hojojutsu, a binding technique the Lion and Crane practice on wounded or otherwise incapacitated or incapable rivals.\" \n\nShe indicated the ways the ropes linked. \"When done correctly one may be restrained without ever having to suffer a knot and thus be officially captured and dishonored. It became an art form when a son of Kakita was inspired by the patterns.\"\n\nShe tied off the second knot and nodded. \"There! Now you can move freely. When you first start learning the The Way of the Little Cat you will often strike your own hands at first, till you learn the rhythm. Expect it. Now, stance again, and do twenty repetions of the strikes.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "The webs that appeared on her arms were strangely hypnotic. \"It's rather pretty in its own way, isn't it?\" She glanced up as Kaori continued the wrapping and twisting. When the first arm was finished, Kotori flexed her fingers and turned her arm this way and that.\n\n\"And all done with but a single knot? How fascinating! I wonder why a son of Kakita developed it into an art.\" Only a person who had no idea of the *Other* Aspects for which shibari could be used would say such a thing with a straight face.\n\nOnce 'released', Kotori stepped forward, trying to imitate and incorporate everything Kaori had taught her thus far. She planted her feet firmly, lifted her arms. Her initial strikes were hesitant; by the fifth they became more assured; by the tenth, a rhythm had been found; but by sixteen, she'd begun to grow weary, and the strikes had become sloppy. By twenty, she was flushed and her breathing slightly labored. A droplet of sweat trickled down from her temple.\n\n\"Goodness, that is so much harder than it looks!\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"And that is why we train as we do,\" Kaori nodded briskly. \"Any one of those strikes can end your enemy, with twenty of them your odds of survival increase accordingly. The weapon in hand is not always a knife. It can be a shard of teapot, a tool, a paint brush, whatever comes to hand. The *Will* Is what you must train. The will to act, the aggression to see it through.\"\n\nShe began to unbind her cousin's sleeves. \n\n\"That is the first lesson, it will not be the last! But I can see you all hot now. That is good, but we should clean up. I'm going to go down to the bath house. Will you be joining me?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "cagliostra",
"message": "Kotori felt a flush of proud of accomplishment. It was a small step, but it was still a step. The practice tools were handed back to their owner, and she shook the fatigue from her arms. \n\n\"Thank you gratefully for this first lesson, sensei.\" She smiled up at her slightly taller cousin and bowed. \"You were already a greatly esteemed in my eyes, but even this small amount of practice has taught me just how much more you deserve.\"\n\nAlready, her mind was swimming with ideas of a gift to give Kaori as a show of thanks. She had one in mind, but finding the right artisan would be the task. Her smiled brightened all the more as she saw it take shape in her thoughts. \n\n\"I would be delighted to join you at the bath house. I've had the staff start to stock better brands of sake and strains of tea. I would love your opinion on the selections, some time.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"We can make a nice little party of it,\" Kaori flicked her finger and her servant scurried off to grab fresh clothing for both her mistress and Kotori. Picking up and slinging her swords the taller Scorpion tilted her head invitingly. \"Let us go, Tori will meet us there.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 190 | 3,549 |
280.0625 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "||\n\n*After having spent the first few days settling into an inn within the city and making themselves presentable it had come time for Mirumoto Katsumi to pay her respects to her Ambassador and the Dragon Embassy. There was of course... Only one minor issue. Finding it. The other clans Embassy's were rather large or at least well marked, but short of hunting down and stalking one of their clansmen back to the place Katsumi had yet to locate the actual building in question they were searching for. That and introducing oneself by following a fellow clansmen like one would a deer did not strike the Magistrate as an appropriate and polite first encounter.*\n\n*Thus the Dragon Magistrate had relegated themselves to wandering through the nicer, but more subdued districts on the city on the off chance their clan Embassy was tucked amongst them. It seemed a very* ***Dragon*** *Thing for her clan to do to have their building away from everything else. As carefully flicking a bit of dust off their formal kimono Katsumi narrowed her brows eyes sweeping over the street as they dallied for a moment in the shade of a nearby tree. The Dragon clan and Murimoto mon displayed proudly upon their back and the breast of their Kimono.*"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto had made his way through the city, escorted by three Yoriki as he often conducted patrols of various neighborhoods. This was his way of checking whether or not the subordinates beneath him in certain areas were really doing their jobs, and an excuse for himself to get out. The scorpion wore his full mask, having the veil completely covering one's face. You see the Magistrate had a notable presence, casting a rather large shadow as he stood six foot two. Dwarfing the other men accompanying him in comparison. It made you question who was protecting who, one's preference would be to walk alone, but upholding an appearance was important! \n\n\"Greetings, I'm Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto. You seem in need of assistance, might I be of some aid?\" \n\nHe spoke to the smaller figure that stood out of place, letting his curiosity take control. Yuto would have bowed to the woman, based on her appearance and colors, one believed not only were they new to the city, but clearly of another clan. The scorpion himself wore a red Kimono and Haori, with a black hakama. His dark long hair was slicked back into a ponytail. Having his Daisho tucked in the Obi, partially covered by the Haori. \n\n\"Have you eaten rice today?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The Dragon Magistrate would glance up lifting a hand to brush a few crimson strands of hair back and away from her face as she turned towards the approaching Scorpion and his entourage as she introduced himself,* \"Greeting Bayushi-san I am Magistrate Mirumoto Katsumi of the Dragon Clan. I was in the midst of ascertaining the location of my Clan's Embassy here within Ryoko Owari Toshi, but it appears I have gotten turned around.\" *They explain introducing themselves as they offer a matching bow to the Scorpion Samurai. Dressed in a kimono of soft red covered by a long outer haori of rich forest green that complimented the woman's bright jade green eyes the foreign Magistrate cut a striking picture. Her own Daisho just barely visible amidst the volumes of formal silk that carefully swathed the Dragon's form.*\n\n\"I have eaten rice today, but I would not refuse the company of an honorable samurai such as yourself should my company you wish to keep. However, I would not wish to delay you from your duties should your task be urgent.\" *Katsumi murmured her gaze sliding carefully over his guards before it settled back upon the man himself as she offered him a small warm smile.*"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Hearing her introduction, eyes widened beneath his mask. A pleasant surprise this was! One didn't have the pleasure of meeting a Dragon, feeling quite exhilarated to be in one's presence and offer service. Giving the fellow Magistrate a nod, he spoke. \n\n\"It is an honor to meet you Mirumoto-sama, you must be new to the city. Your clan must have a warm welcome prepared for your arrival, it'd be no good if you were not there to be welcomed.\" \n\nRaising a hand he gestured for the Yoriki accompanying him to give them space, not wanting to crowd the dragon. He then waved for Katsumi to follow, hoping she would. \n\n\"I cannot see a task more urgent than you arriving at your destination safely, I've learned the city quite well in my time here. You'll come to know it as well.\" \n\nBeginning to walk, he moved at a moderate pace. While he wasn't a snail the man certainly didn't rush, wanting to know all he could of this shining individual. It wasn't everyday you met someone new and interesting. \n\n\"I hope the city has treated you fairly, it must be quite different from where you come from. I hear the Dragons are enlightened sages that have stepped down from the heavens to pass their values and wisdom. Your services will be greatly appreciated, that I am sure.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Katsumi had not expected the far more respectful address given they're similarity in rank, but found themselves nonetheless flattered as they incline their head in acceptance of his offer to walk with the fellow Magistrate. The way his guards parted hovering just shy of her person as if she was some ethereal minor kami that might disappear into thin air if they so much as brushed against her admittedly was as charming as it was amusing. Their demeanor telling of the fact that like elsewhere in Rokugan it was clear her clan had kept their distance from the rest of the city of Ryoko Owari Toshi.*\n\n\"You have my thanks for your assistance Bayushi-sama,\" *They murmur returning the same more formal respect he himself had shown. Their bright jade green eyes warming with gentle amusement at his questions as they consider their words with a suitably dragon like pause. It would not due to disappoint the man.*\n\n\"I have traveled the lands of my people and beyond, but I find there are few places like my home. Though that does not make them any less charming. The contrast between the bustling city and the quiet snow capped peaks of my homeland is indeed vast.\" *Katsumi agrees matching her pace with that of Yuto's and finding herself grateful that the man had slowed his steps to keep time with her shorter stature. The petite magistrate looking like a kokeshi doll next to the towering Scorpion.*\n\n\"As for my clan, It is said that within the Dragon's lands there are a hundred mountains, a thousand paths, but only one sky to look upon from such great peaks. To each the steps to enlightenment are as varied as the snowflakes that pile high in winter and it is my humble opinion that my path is long and winding yet upon my journey.\" *The Magistrate confided with a smile soft and demure.*\n\n\"But this one regardless of the journey will strive to serve Rokugan and it's people with her utmost sincerity.\" *She adds before carefully turning the topic away from her own person,* \"Is there any wisdom you yourself Bayushi-sama could impart in regards to the city as one who has grown to know it's streets? I am interested in what you would advise and in what you would recommend.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "There was a certain weirdness to being addressed as Bayushi-San and sama, but Yuto couldn't deny it felt pretty warm too. Typically he was addressed as Yuto all his life until the Rokugo became an official clan, the Magistrate was more than happy to climb the ranks. Though it did come with its issues of reevaluating one's self worth and etiquette. Hearing the difference of where she came from compared to the city was indeed fascinating, one couldn't help but let their imagination run. \n\n\"I hope this Dragon that has descended from the Mountain find their time in the city pleasurable. Maybe they will find something to bring with them when they ascend once more.\" \n\nWhen she asked him for his wisdom, the Rokugo tilted their head to the side. Pondering a great question, wisdom came in many forms. It was something everyone had but not enough of, spending their lives learning only to find they still lack it. Bringing a hand to rest on the man's chin, he thought deeply about it. \n\n\"Hmm, well the first thing you should know is The Golden Koi restaurant has exquisite dishes, but the Jade Dragon has great diversity and quality of their Tea. If you're looking to go and be unbothered I suggest not too early or late into your day.\" \n\nWhile what he said wasn't unnecessarily untrue the man did almost bring himself to laugh. Knowing it wasn't the advice expected, but he wanted to joke with the dragon and establish a good impression. \n\n\"I'm sorry, forgive me! But if I were to pass on some wisdom of this place, I would say be mindful. The city has many faces, you must always question if the face before you is a genuine one or merely a veil. Though I guess it's fairly ironic the man wearing a mask is telling you such.\" \n\nYuto lifted up the mask he wore, revealing one's face as he presented a soft and warm smile. He had a long horizontal scar across the nose and cheeks, but it had healed well and didn't make him unbearable to behold. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Yuto's answer startles a bright bell like laugh from the Dragon Magistrate and the subsequent grin she turns upon him is rueful and wry in it's humor,* \"That certainly is worthy wisdom for as the army marches on it's stomach a Samurai would rather not face the morning without their tea.\" *They only half jest seeming to have not taken Yuto's more 'practical' advise as any sort of insult. Though as he speaks of the city's faces those sharp vivid jade eyes sharpen upon him. The woman weighing the truth of his words with the razor fine precision of a scalpel, but as they incline their head lips parting to speak it's clear that whatever they see in his advise it is worthy of their attention.*\n\n\"Give a man a mask and you shall know his true~\" *Katsumi begins to speak only to falter in surprise as the Scorpion lifts his own mask to smile at her. The little Magistrate clearly taken aback as her cheeks color with a pretty blush that paints her skin with petal hues and leaves her nearly colliding with one of the guards in her distraction. At least until a quick bit of footwork leaves her narrowly dodging the collision as they shake their head a few strands of crimson hair spilling loose to frame their heart shaped face.* \n\n\"Bayushi-sama I must admit I was under the impression those of the Scorpion clan never removed their masks. You've certainly given me quite the shock, though not an unwelcome one.\" *She gently chides.*"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Happy he got a good reaction from the woman, he also let out a slight chuckle. A warm smile plastered on his face, truly enjoying the dragon's presence. The whole ordeal with her almost stumbling over his men was completely missed due to the Rokugo turning his head, looking forward to where they were going. Making sure they were on the right road. Though when she asked her question Yuto turned, seeing the fluster within the woman's expression. \n\n\"I'd be unable to recommend such fine restaurants if I never took off my mask Mirumoto-sama.\" \n\nSpeaking in a sarcastic tone once more, he would go on to further explain the mask situation. It was once something foreign to him as well. \n\n\"It was strange to me as well at first. The Scorpion find protection, individuality, and privacy under the comforts of their mask. It is something sacred in our culture. When we Rokugo were first drafted as vassals under the Bayushi, it was such a foreign concept to us. But I've come to see the beauty in it.\" \n\nContinuing his walk the Magistrate continued to explain. Hoping he wasn't boring the woman. \n\n\"A scorpion not wearing their mask is a sign of trust with who they're with, it can also symbolize familiarity. Or mere arrogance.\" \n\nChuckling after he spoke the last part. Yuto would have glanced her way once more, still wearing the same smile. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*The little Dragon Magistrate could not help, but arch a brow at his comment,* \"I think if the Scorpion had not perfected lifting their masks enough to eat without removing them then the entire clan would have long ago starved.\" *She points out as she gestures to himself and his men,* \"And seeing I still have the pleasure of your clans company to this day I would say that must not be the case.\"\n\n\"That said it is a rather interesting tradition, but far be the Dragon clan to judge. My clan lives upon the mountains not within glass houses after all.\" *She adds with a wry shake of her head. No the clan famous for it's staunch individualism and for producing Bushi infamous for their unique quirks was certainly not one to be judging the strange customs of others.*\n\n\"But if your family is only recently joined the Bayushi then I could see how such a custom may not yet be a habit.\" *Katsumi muses.*"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "There was something really fun about their conversation, Yuto found someone appreciative of his jokes! That or she was already getting annoyed, but who knows. Regardless, the scorpion carried on, simply enjoying the dragon's company. \n\n\"You are right, we Rokugo are very simplistic. Being behind in etiquette and tradition is a vast understatement, but I think we've managed to catch up. That or a barbarian escorting a sage will make quite the sight for some people.\" \n\nHumoring himself at this point he shook his head. Lay it on too hard and they'll find your quips to be irritating, so he took a different approach. Finding interest in her comment about residing in the mountains.\n\n\"It must be quite tranquil in the mountains, I hope the ambience of the city won't disturb you. If you ever require any service or assistance, from one Magistrate to another, Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto will always make himself open to aid.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Are the Rokugo not of Rokugan?\" *Katsumi inquires rather taken aback by the man's comment. For they could think of no other reason to refer to oneself, even jokingly, as a 'barbarian.' Then again the man had surprised her by even mentioning he was of a vassal family rather then simply assuming their ruling family name as was done outside of clan lands. Though given Ryoko Owari Toshi had once been a Scorpion city even if it now lay in Imperial hands perhaps would have caused utilizing such names to get the man in trouble.*\n\n\"And the mountains are indeed tranquil though the one I was raised on less so. It served as a training facility for many bushi or as host to rare events where a suitably visually striking location was needed for diplomatic events such as Winter court.\" *The Magistrate murmured saying nothing more then what was known from the last time her home had played host to such things.*\n\n\"But I thank you for your offer of assistance. My kinsmen are not always the most inclined to company, but should you find yourself needing to speak with a member of the Dragon Clan you may feel free to ask for me at the Embassy.\" *She offers with a small smile and incline of their head.*"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The Rokugos had an interesting history in establishing themselves, not one he'd like to share so soon. First impressions were important, if he were to tell that tale his image might have been ruined in an instant. Eyes shifting their gaze as he thought of how to reply, but eventually he did. \n\n\"Perhaps if you'd like sometime over tea I can tell you all about the Rokugo and their tale of becoming adopted by the Scorpion clan. Can't say it's a nice story but if you like excitement you may find some pleasure in it.\" \n\nThat was the nicest way of putting it, Yuto continued walking. They were almost to the Embassy, it was quite the trip now that he thought about it, her explanation of the Dragons preference to solitude made all the more sense. Though her mention of a Bushi facility was quite fascinating. \n\n\"I take it you are a Bushi then? Forgive me, I believed you were a Shugenja. Figured there was no other explanation for your glow, perhaps it must be due to your Clans residence just beneath the heavens. One so close to Amaterasu that they would be blessed with their grace. An honor to have met you indeed.\" \n\nThis was his way of complimenting the woman's beauty without being too obvious or bashful. \n\n\"We're almost there, hope I haven't bored you on our walk.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "*Keen jade eyes observe Yuto's silence with thoughtful contemplation as Katsumi's gaze sweeps over him with a glance. The subtle tenseness to the man's shoulders and the way he now failed to meet her eyes a tell tale sign of avoidance and lies. A Scorpion no matter how blunt it's stinger or clumsy it's claws was still a Scorpion after all. Though given the man had called not only himself, but his family barbarians the Magistrate could guess the story would not be a pleasant one.* \n\n\"If it is a tale you wish to tell then I shall take you up on such an invitation at another time,\" *The little Magistrate murmured as she offered Yuto a gentle and reassuring smile. Hoping to placate the man's misgivings.*\n\n*Though his teasing compliment draws another soft laugh from the woman who cannot help, but ruefully shake her head,* \"Do you say that to all the pretty women that you meet or just myself?\" *Katsumi inquires with a wry tilt of her head before she lifts her hand and brushes her outer kimono back a touch to better reveal that she carries not merely a wakizashi to announce her station as one of the Samurai caste, but a katana as well.* \n\n\"After all do Shugenja often carry a full daisho?\" *She teases knowing well that such was uncommon amidst Shugenja; the Mirumoto however were all, but married to their blades.* \n\n\"Though you need not worry. Your company has made a long walk very short.\" *The Magistrate adds with a soft if slightly coy smile as she inclines her head to Yuto and his men,* \"I am certain I might well have been further delayed by mishaps without you and your guards assistance.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Having been given the okay to arrange a new meeting his smile grew even brighter. Finding the dragon to be more than great company, he hoped to be on good terms with her and by extension the woman's clan. She didn't pry in knowing the Rokugos story either, best that was explained after making a good impression. \n\n\"Great! I'll send a letter sometime to discuss arrangements.\" \n\nAfter hearing her tease, did he say it to all pretty women or just her? Well, that was quite a question! Yuto let out a laugh, finding much amusement from it. \n\n\"Maybe you'll find out if we encounter another pretty woman, though following after your gaze would be quite the challenge. I'm not sure if another could break the daze your eyes bestow.\" \n\nAnother tease that slipped into a compliment, Yuto figured the playful banter was all in good taste between them. He of course meant nothing foul beneath the words. \n\n\"I haven't met many Shugenja, I can't say whether they do or not. But it gladdens me to meet another Bushi, few things rival my love for the art of swords after all.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "shimmerkeen",
"message": "\"Then I shall look forward to your letter.\" *Katsumi murmured as the group came to a stop within sight of the Dragon Clan Embassy. The building and it's location drawing a small frown from the Magistrate who for a moment wondered if perhaps Yuto had gotten the wrong location. At least until they noticed their clan mon upon the door. Resisting the urge to sigh she could not help, but find it rather like her clansmen to seek such isolation.*\n\n\"Then it seems we shall have to await and see how my gaze fairs in comparison with the future,\" *She jests tone light and polite with good humor as she turns to Yuto offering him and his men a bow.* \n\n\"Thank you for escorting me this far Bayushi-san,\" *Katsumi murmur falling back on the polite, if slightly more familiar address after their journey,* \"Here we must part ways. I hope the remainder of your day and that of your men's is fruitful.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Having arrived at their embassy, their time together was coming to an end. He gave one last visible smile before pulling his mask back down, Yuto of course forgot it was up in the first place. Losing himself while conversing with the dragon, but it wasn't an unpleasant experience. He gave a final bow before saying his goodbye. \n\n\"It was our pleasure Mirumoto-sama.\" He returned the polite gesture, speaking in an upbeat tone. \n\n\"I hope your clan has provided you with the warm welcome that is deserved. Farewell.\" \n\nThe Yoriki accompanying them also gave one final bow, falling in line as the Magistrate turned and went the other way. Beneath his mask you couldn't see it, but the man's smile had never been brighter. \n\n||"
}
] | 270.5 | 4,481 |
256.111111 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The little Scorpion had never used this dojo before. She'd only been seen once training in public, and that time she'd gotten a splinter and thrown the bokken across the dojo floor in petulant anger. So this was a very unusual sight. Yet there she was, having cleared out the small non-affiliated dojo for her own use, training with slow diligent effort. \n\nShe was a methodical worker, her sword rose and fell over and over in her thousand cuts and her bare feet polished the wooden floor in precise steps. As always her right arm was bound tight to her chest, and only her left was in use. Strands of hair had come loose from her bun and were sticking to her slightly flushed face. Despite her methodical approach, she was working hard and pushing her heart rate up. The watered steel of her Crane-forged katana flashed with each strike. \n\nHer left arm had been shrugged out of the faded training clothes, her top pinned in place to maintain minimal modesty while threatening to slip down entirely at any moment, but this was her only concession to her usually outrageous fashions. \n\nOutside the dojo Tori sat and read a book, ready at any moment to rush inside if her mistress called her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "Akodo Akechi, clad in his signature white kimono adorned with intricate golden designs, entered the dojo with a calm yet imposing presence. His eyes scanned the room, and a hint of recognition flickered across his face as he spotted the determined figure of Bayushi Kaori.\n\nApproaching with graceful steps, Akechi cleared his throat softly before addressing her, \"Well-Well, it is indeed a rare pleasure to find you in this setting, your skills are as impressive as ever. Watching you move with such precision and grace is like witnessing a masterful dance.\" \n\nHe couldn't help but admire her diligence, the way her katana moved with precision and her movements glided gracefully across the wooden floor. Akechi's gaze, ever the perceptive one, noticed the strands of hair that had come loose from her bun, framing her flushed face. \n\nWith a charming smile, he added, \"And even amidst your rigorous training, you maintain an elegance that is truly captivating.\"\n\nAkechi's words were genuine, his playboy charm momentarily set aside to genuinely admire her skill. He had always been drawn to those who excelled in their craft, and Kaori's dedication to her swordsmanship was a testament to her commitment.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The sword whirled in a simple flourish before she sank it home in the saya and turned to bow to the Lion. Tori appeared with a jug of water, Kaori took a drink before greeting her guest. \"Akodo-san, what a pleasant surprise. Despite your kind words at the tournament I did not think to see you outside of your own dojo. You are very kind to flatter this humble daughter of Bayushi so. With my wound still knitting I am forced to return to the basics of iaido.\" \n\nShe flexed her arm, grimacing slightly. \"Perhaps one day you will see me at the peak of my form, but I must warn you that it will not be this day. How do you fare though? I have not had the pleasure of your company since the tournament.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "The Lion samurai, Akodo Akechi, watched Kaori's graceful flourish of her blade with a keen eye, his own katana resting at his side. He bowed respectfully as she bowed and Tori brought forth the jug of water. \"I am always eager to learn from skilled warriors, regardless of their dojo,\" He replied with a warm smile, acknowledging her gratitude.\n\nAkechi's eyes shifted to her arm, noticing her discomfort. He understood the challenges of recovering from a wound all too well. \"Wounds are but temporary trials on the path Bayushi-San,\" He remarked, his voice filled with respect.\n\nHe couldn't help but be intrigued by her declaration of not being at her peak. \"I have no doubt that your determination will lead you to new heights in due time,\" He said encouragingly. \"As for me, I have been all over the place — this place truly never fails to surprise me time and time again.\"\n\n\"But I fare well, it please me to hear that you enjoyed my company. Admittedly at times I can be little too playful for my own good.\" He replied, his eyes gleaming with anticipation as he made his way in the wooden floor, removing his footwear. \n\nBeginning his warming-up routine. The familiar scent of polished wood and the gentle rustling of his outfit filled the air. Akechi's movements were a study in precision and grace. He started with a series of slow, deliberate stretches, each motion fluid and controlled. His powerful muscles tensed and relaxed as he stretched, a silent conversation between his body and the blade he would soon wield.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion didn't resume her workout. She settled back to sit and watch the Lion, openly studying his technique, his movements, his strength and grace. Well, he hadn't been misleading. His form was good and he wasn't half-assing it. But how would he behave under intense, open scrutiny? Would he over-compensate with an emphasis on perfect form or would he try to show off with flashy techniques and dramatic turns? She had betrayed her own response with the flourish sheath. What would the Lion do? \n\nShe sipped her water and allowed her body to cool, occasionally stretching to keep from growing stiff. Tori kept her eyes down, careful not to openly appreciate the form of her betters. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "Next came the practice swings. Removing the upper half of his outfit leaving it hanging to reveal his sturdy upper body that would be covered in a layer bandage wraps from his torso up to his shoulders. Sheathing his katana off its cage it sang as it sliced through the air, the blade moving with a deadly elegance. Akechi's eyes remained focused, his concentration unwavering, as he executed a flawless series of cuts, each one a testament to his years of disciplined training.\n\nWith each swing, he could feel the connection between himself and the weapon deepening. It was as if the katana were an extension of his own body, a part of his very soul. He moved through a mesmerizing kata, the patterns and strikes flowing seamlessly from one to the next.\n\nAs his body warmed up and his muscles loosened, Akechi's spirit soared. In this sacred space, he was not just a samurai; he was a warrior, a guardian of his clan's honor and legacy. The rhythm of his practice became a meditation, a dance of steel and spirit, a testament to the timeless art of the samurai.\n\nIn the quiet of the dojo, under the watchful eyes of the ever so keenly scorpion, Akodo Akechi was preparing himself for whatever challenges the future might hold, his heart and blade both as sharp as the other. Eyeing over towards Kaori with an inviting look on his face:\n\n\" Care to dance with me my lady?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "A bow, and a dainty blush as the Scorpion stepped out onto the floor once more. He had chosen to mimick her style of dress and show off a little, a subtle insight she appreciated. Her naked sword came up once more in a single handed grip. She stood more sideways than usual, a stance she'd borrowed from watching Unicorn scimitar training. The sword in her hands was too long for sustained single handed use, but her goal here was not victory. \n\nThe Kakita forge-mark gleamed in the sunlight as she slowly rotated between a horizontal and a vertical guard, her eyes keenly focused on the Lion. This was a strong contrast to the reputation she had built, of being a wild, undisciplined fighter who got by on speed and aggression. This was a demonstration of absolute dedication to mastery of the smallest details. \n\nA smile touched her lips as she invited the Lion to test her guard. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "Akechi observed the Scorpion's graceful stance and the glint of her Kakita-forged blade with a composed expression. The invitation to test her guard was not something he'd pass up. With a respectful nod, he acknowledged her gesture.\n\nAs the Lion moved forward, he held his katana with one hand, with his left, showcasing his skill while hinting at his offense. His confident strides brought him closer to the Scorpion, his eyes locked onto hers with unwavering focus. He could appreciate the subtle details in her form, a departure from her reputed wild style.\n\nWith a calculated burst of speed, he executed a precise strike, his blade slicing through the air. He aimed to test her defenses, not to overpower her, and it showed in the finesse of his movements. His katana danced with precision, aiming for the gaps in her guard, but never with excessive force.\n\nAkechi remained ever vigilant, his free hand poised to defend against any potential counterattack. His stance was like an unyielding wall, ready to absorb her responses while keeping himself prepared for any surprises. His attack was relentless yet measured, a testament to his discipline and mastery.\n\nIf she responded the way he knew she was capable of even despite her handicap, their blades would clash and dance in the sunlight, a beautiful display of martial skill and dedication to the art of the sword. Akechi's controlled aggression and ability to defend himself with one hand spoke volumes about his prowess as a samurai. The Scorpion may have invited him to test her, but Akechi was equally committed to demonstrating his own martial excellence.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Have you ever seen two stags contend for mastery? They stand as statues, tall and proud, their swords held high. Then they hurl together and lock in contest. They strive, they heave, their bodies straining, feet gouging the earth. Silent trees their only witness, pride and honor their only purpose. Just so did the Lion and the Scorpion now test themselves. \n\nA faint rasping snarl of steel slithering along steel as the two deadly warriors fenced back and forth filled the room. There were no crashing blows when training with live steel, their swords were far too valuable to damage in sparring, but these small movements were just as valuable and dangerous in their own way. Bind, twist, rebind. Over the top, too slow. Neither one was seeking to touch the other, merely be the one to lead the dance of steel. It was a silent, intense struggle for dominance, a private war for pride and mastery. \n\nAfter the initial press Kaori gave ground. She retreated as she fought, her smaller steps forcing Akechi to adapt to her pace even as her lighter body strained to match his superior strength and height. This was a dancer's footwork, a nimple and light step that sought by turns to evade and stymie. \n\nHer black eyes were glittering with pleasure as she whirled through this dance, though she did not insult her partner by smiling or seeming to mock his efforts. Nor could she in good conscience, she could feel his skill through her blade and she knew that this was as close to true combat as she would ever want to come with him. \n\n|| maybe influence too heavily by the Iliad, lol"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "The dojo resonated with the symphony of clashing steel, a dance of precision and skill that defined the encounter between Akechi and Kaori. Akechi was keenly aware that this duel was not merely about his height and strength advantages; it was a showcase of his sword mastery, a craft he had honed over countless hours.\n\nTheir blades sang in harmony, a rhythm that spoke of respect and camaraderie rather than hostility. Bind, twist, rebind—Akechi's movements were fluid, each step a testament to his expertise. His eyes, focused and unwavering, watching Kaori's every move, anticipating her shifts in strategy.\n\nAs Kaori gave ground, Akechi pursued with an eloquent grace, his strikes calculated and precise. He didn't seek to overpower her, but rather to engage in this intricate dance of steel. His superior height and strength weren't his sole tools; his agility and maneuverability were equally remarkable. He adapted to her pace, his footwork mirroring that of a seasoned dancer, an artful balance of offense and defense.\n\nThis duel was a testament to their mutual respect and the shared pursuit of martial excellence. Akechi's face remained composed, betraying neither arrogance nor complacency. He cherished this opportunity to test his skills against Kaori, knowing that her black eyes sparkled with the same pleasure he felt in this elegant exchange of blows.\n\nTheir swords whispered secrets known only to masters, and as the duel continued, Akechi reveled in the artistry of their martial craft. This was not just a contest of strength; it was a celebration of their dedication to the way of the sword.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "He was not trying to overbear her with physicality, but rather show off his own skill. Had he misled her with his warm-up, showing off his physique to get her mind on the wrong track? Was he truly so clever as to play upon her (rumored) libedo, did he seek to test the Scorpion's legendary appetites, or was he merely vain? Or, worst of all, was he an uncomplicated man blessed by Benten? \n\n*I already have Yuto in my life must I have another himbo doting on me?*\n\nHer distraction nearly cost her all her pride, as her arm was lulled into instinctive patterns built by ten thousand hours of drills and her sword nearly flew from her fingertips as the more highly skilled blade took advantage. She caught it back at the last moment, but her defense was clumsy and basic before she regained her composure. Had it not been for her masterful footwork she certainly would have been forced to submit. \n\n*Icy breezes whisper over jagged crags, as a giant's frozen breath over broken teeth, a dreadful reminder to respect the power of nature.*\n\nHer face cleared, her eyes growing distant, looking beyond the Lion seeing everything and focusing on nothing. Her feet ceased to evade and she stood stock still, swaying like a reed but holding her ground as she recentered herself. || Void 4 ||\n\nThis was not the fiery tantrum-throwing spoiled princess he may have heard gossip about.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "As their blades clashed and danced in the training grounds, Akechi couldn't help but be impressed by Kaori's resilience and adaptability. He had initially pushed forward, not to overbear her physically, but to showcase his own skills and test her mettle. The thoughts that had crossed his mind about her rumored characteristics had long faded into the background, replaced by the intense focus of their duel.\n\nAkechi's retreat from his aggressive approach was a deliberate choice, allowing Kaori an opportunity to seize the offensive. He watched keenly as her arm, initially led astray by momentary distractions, found its rhythm once more. Her recovery was remarkable, a testament to her training and dedication. Her swordplay might have faltered briefly, but it was evident that her skill was undeniable.\n\nThe Lion samurai admired her masterful footwork, which had prevented her from being forced into submission. As they continued their duel, he saw her transformation—a warrior resolute and centered, swaying with grace yet rooted firmly to the ground. It was a far cry from the fiery image he might have heard in rumors.\n\nIn this dance of blades, Akechi found not just a formidable opponent, but a warrior whose true essence transcended gossip and reputation. Their duel was a testament to the respect they held for each other as skilled martial artists, and Akechi was determined to give it his all in this friendly competition.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Her arm was growing fatigued, her skin flushed and heated. Her breath was coming more quickly. When one fought with only one arm such things were compounded. She bought a few second's reprieve by using her back muscles, but the finish was fast approaching. She didn't try to resist. Despite her great respect for his skills she didn't want her to see her true limits. Better to end early. Allowing a bind, she turned inwards instead of outwards and froze, nearly wrapped up entirely in his arms, her sword held far out of alignment and his own very nearly at her throat. It was technically a stalemate, but he could have easily overpowered her in this position and driven his blade through her moderate guard. \n\nShe stood there, panting slightly, face flushed with effort, looking up at him. Only now did she allow her perpetual smirk to broaden into a genuine smile. She gazed up at him, shifting without pulling away, holding her position without any attempt to distract him with her body. \"Glad I am that our clans are at peace,\" She murmured. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "Akechi's muscles tensed and sweat glistened on his brow, felt the intensity of their spar reach its culmination. He recognized the fatigue in Kaori's arm and the strain on her body. Akechi respected her skills immensely, and he understood the importance of not revealing one's true limits too soon.\n\nAs they stood in that precarious position, locked in a stalemate, Akechi's sharp eyes met Kaori's gaze. He sensed her relief and amusement, and her words resonated with him. A small smile graced his lips beneath the mask that concealed his expression.\n\n\"Aye, Kaori-san,\" Akechi replied in a calm, measured tone, his voice carrying the weight of their shared respect. \"Our clans may be at peace, but it's moments like these that remind us of the beauty in the world. Your spirit and determination are as captivating as your swordplay.\"\n\nWith a graceful step back, Akechi lowered his blade and released the tension in the air, ending the spar. It was a moment of mutual understanding and camaraderie, where their skills had been tested, and their respect for one another had grown stronger. Stepping out for a brief moment to get some hydration for himself and the scorpion. Stepping back onto the mat he extended the drink to Kaori: \n\n\"I must admit, I find myself looking forward to our next encounter, both on and off the battlefield.\"\n\nHe suggested sarcastically in a coquettish demeanor as he proceeded to swallow his cup of water. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Taking the water that Tori had refreshed, the little Scorpion drank deep and wiped her mouth off. She was briefly tempted to pour a second cupful over her head like a peasant, but even if she'd been alone she would not have stooped to such indignity. \"I believe we share a threat or two, and I would not like to pass on the chance to see such a master at full purpose,\" She replied. \"I have the honor of carrying the horse-killer your clan gifted mine some time back, and I would test its edge against the finest cavalry.\"\n\nShe pulled loose hairs back behind her ears. The statement was left to hang as she examined her sword for any signs of damage. A few small scratches, but certainly nothing she couldn't polish or whet out. \"My arm has some weeks left before it is useful again. Then you shall see me in full might as well. My autumn is not yet upon me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "His breathing slightly heavy from their intense duel, standing gracefully next to Kaori. He watched as she examined her sword, the fire of their battle still reflected in her eyes.\n\n\"You are as fine as your blade,\" He said, a hint of admiration in his voice. \"Testing the edge of a blade against the finest cavalry would be a sight to behold, I'm sure. I just hope I can keep up witnessing such a spectacle.\"\n\nHe reached over, his fingers lightly brushing a stray strand of her hair she had missed away from her face. \"Your recovery will be swift, I'm certain of it,\" He murmured, his tone carrying a flirtatious undercurrent. \"And when you are at your full might, I hope to be there to challenge you once more.\"\n\nAkechi leaned in slightly closer, his lips dangerously close to her ear, and whispered, \"But until then, perhaps we can find other ways to pass the time, ways that do not involve swords and steel.\"\n\nPulling away afterward but remaining in her proximity, locking eyes with her, a spark of desire passing between him as the dojo's serenity enveloped them in its warm embrace.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Her head tilted coquettishly and she bit her lower lip between white teeth. Her eyes stared up at him, secret pools under dark trees. Who knew how many men had sunk there before? And yet, the secrets were teased for the brave to plumb. \n\n\"When I am at my full might you shall find me easily enough,\" She promised. \"And I shall not disappoint. But until that day... Well, we must find a way to pass the nights.\"\n\nThat phrase hung in the air before she added, \"There is a new theater in the merchant's quarter that promises excellent viewing. You may escort me there when they open next week.\"\n\nEscorts, not meet. A sly challenge, not a rejection. *I am not for secret pleasure.* \n\nShe was sure he would rise to the occasion. Nothing in his character had displeased her yet. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "deimos027",
"message": "Akechi couldn't help but be drawn into the intrigue of Kaori's words. He met her gaze with a confident and playful smile, his eyes locking onto hers:\n\n\"Ah, my lady,\" He smirked, his voice carrying a hint of excitement. \"Your secrets are indeed a tempting enigma, one that calls to the very core of my warrior's heart. I shall eagerly await the day when I can witness your full might.\"\n\nHe took a step closer, his presence commanding the space around him. \"As for the nights in between, your suggestion is most enticing. A theater in the merchant's quarter, you say? I shall consider it an honor to be your escort, my lady. And rest assured, to the unforgettable moments that await us.\"\n\nWith a suave nod, Akechi conveyed his readiness to meet her challenge, his eyes never leaving hers, his heart unyielding like a Lion on the hunt.\n\n||"
}
] | 256 | 4,610 |
159.84 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Obscured by trees and ringed by walls, the Bayushi estate presented a perfectly proper, yet perfectly archetypical Scorpion manor. The trees cast the grounds into permanent shade and the gardens were modest for lack of proper light. \n\nThe house proper consisted of several comfortable sets of apartments meant for the use of any Bayushi. Up to a dozen samurai could be comfortably, if closely, housed together. Like Kyuden Bayushi itself walls could be repositioned as necessary to give the residents the privacy they needed or open up the floor plan for easier meetings. \n\nThe Scorpion known as Kaori was out in the rock garden, the gravel softly shifting against her bare feet as she drilled a draw cut with her left hand only, not even using her right to brace the saya. It was slow, frustrating work, the movement very basic. It was hard to add subtle misdirection to an attack when she was handicapped. Tori stood nearby with a pitcher of water, patently waiting for her mistress to demand refreshment. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "The rustling against the gravel drew the immediate attention of a certain visiting magistrate. Kana started making her way around the estate proper to the source of the sound. \"OI! BAYUSHI-SAN!\" She greeted cheerfully.\n\nKana approached dressed in more of a Mantis green kimono today, a the orange limited to the tie for her Obi and the tiger lilies embroidered on the sleeve. As was rather common for her, the kimono had a small slit in the leg up to around her knee.\n\nShe smiled warmly to Kaori as she spproached, delighted to see her hope had worked out.\n\n*A much better meeting place than that damned cell.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The sword spun through the Scorpion's fingers and slid back into the saya. She turned and bowed to her guest. \"Moshi-sama, a very great pleasure to see you again,\" She said. Her black eyes studied the kimono, reading the meanings there before she looked up. As was her custom now she wore no mask. \"Tori! Fetch tea and refreshments for our guest!\" \n\nShe waved a hand to the side where several cushions were set up in the grass. The cool shade of the trees and the early season precluded much of a lawn, but where sun could reliably be coaxed through the trees the grass was carefully cultivated. \"Be at ease, rest your feet. How does the day find you? Are you well?\" \n\nHer sword rested beside her on her left, normally an insulting position but Kaori was obviously confined to her left hand for the time being. Tori had been anticipating Kana's arrival because she reappeared almost as soon as she had vanished, a tea tray in hand. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Likewise, Bayushi-san,\" She replied, taking a moment to study her own kimono. \"I see you've wasted no time getting back to sharpening your skills. How are things feeling with that? Have you noticed any improvement in your range of motion?\" She didn't necessarily want to overwhelm the newly released Scorpion with a bunch of questions, but friends or no, she was still here in the role of physical therapist, and still intended to do her job well.\n\n\"As for myself, well enough! There was a very... Interesting, let's say, encounter with a very poorly behaved Samurai the other day,\" She noted, chuckling awkwardly. \"Well, I am not sure if I should say Samurai, or rather the worst shinobi I have ever seen in action. Not that I have seen many... But you get my meaning,\" She said, smoothing out her kimono and taking a seat on the grass. \"Aside from that, I am still managing to claw my way out from my paperwork long enough to do my rounds, so I have naught to complain of.\n\n\"Ah, thank you, Tori-san!\" Kana chirped to Kaori's assistant, accepting a cup and holding it in both hands.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"I've been very careful with my range of motion. The last thing I want now is a setback.\" Kaori's arm was always strapped to her chest when she was not bathing. \"The pain is more manageable now that I can see to my own medication. I intend to go straight to the baths after this session.\" \n\nShe flicked back her hair and took a cup as well. \"You had a Shinobi run across your path? Well and how did that go for them? I did not hear any blasts of lightning this morning. Will we be viewing a hanging later?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, I think for a moment the man fancied himself a shinobi,\" She began, taking a sip of the tea. She closed her eyes a brief moment, sitting with the flavor before she continued to speak. \"The fool grabbed a parasol, hid behind it in front of me, and then rolled behind a building. And I do not jest when I say this - the man *Literally* Rolled!\" Kana could scarcely make it through the explanation without giggling, holding on to her cup a bit tighter to avoid spilling.\n\n\"Of course, then he challenged me to hostilities, insulted my clan, and loudly announced his intention to falsely accuse me of obstruction of justice. Fortunately for him, I did not see fit to tie his arms into a knot right then and there. In terms of what happened next, I'm afraid I cannot promise much in the way of excitement,\" She sighed. \"Moshi Mai-sama and I visited the Phoenix ambassador, and he was dealt with.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"He sounds completely moon-struck,\" Kaori shook her head in wonder. \"But you say... He was of the Phoenix? They are always strange, the Kami sometimes see fit to change their minds. I often think that it is dangerous to reach for powers that are not given to us.\" \n\nShe shrugged. \"But Saori-chan is a shugenja, so I may just speak out of concern for her. Why did you not club this fool though? Surely a woman of your talents could have made a swift example of such foolishness.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, the Kami had nothing to do with this one's particular breed of madness, I assure you,\" She replied. \"As for why I did not? Well... For one, let us say a common acquaintance has taught me the dangers of what even simple, justified actions and words can bring when one is intending to twist them. Secondly, as much as he may have deserved it, while he beckoned me to fight, I would have been the first to lay my hands on him.\"\n\nShe took another sip of her tea. \"It's something I've seen before. Someone attempting to provoke you into taking the first action so that they can claim that they're the aggrieved party. It would have been playing right into his trap, and I would have been a fool to jump right in when he made it so obvious.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion had the good grace to wince slightly at the gentle rebuke. \"You acted wiser and more gracefully than I would in such a case,\" She said, flicking her hair back from her face. \"I am a sword, and the sword is my first solution. To withhold and allow wiser heads to prevail is something I still lack. I did deliver a murderess up to the law once, but they only hanged her a few days later anyway and I did not see the mercy in it.\" Kaori had her own thoughts on capital punishment that were not relevant to the conversation. \n\n\"Well, I am glad that the situation is resolved anyway. Do you think he was acting alone or was the trap laid by his betters?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"You raise a good point...\" Kana took a sip of her tea. \"It's an odd sort of protocol that asks us to be merciful and patient, having others conduct the work of justice for us, when the punishment meted out is equal or worse to what we would have done. Nevertheless, it is the system we must work within. Not to say I don't understand where you come from,\" She chuckled. \"There was indeed a part of me that would have felt he deserved my wrath. As for his superior, no. Unless Shiba-sama is the most talented actor in all of Rokugan, I think he may have been angrier than myself or Moshi Mai-sama combined!\" Her chuckles became laughter.\n\n\"What of yourself? Since returning to your proper station, how have things been?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"When I have returned to my proper station I will be much happier,\" Kaori was still serving as Yuto's minion and resenting every moment of it. \"But things are better than I anticipated. Being able to move and grow once more is a delight. And the baths are a luxury i shall never again take for granted.\" \n\nShe sipped her tea. \"I entered the Iaido competition, the one the Crane are hosting. I don't expect to win but I shall see what I can do. Without my right arm I can only get so far... But I have cultivated my left for years already.\" She grinned. It was an old dueling trick to switch to a left-handed draw in order to throw off an enemy who had spent most of their time training against the right. \"Do not worry, I will strap down my arm for the competition. I would not set back my recovery even one day for the adoration of the Crane.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Ahhh, yes, there really is nothing quite like a good bath,\" She replied. \"If I may ask, do you have any recommendations for bathhouses? I know it's not exactly becoming to seek out such indulgences, but I must admit I've felt like treating myself a bit more lately...\"\n\nKana then leaned forward as Kaori began discussing the tournament. \"Oh? The same one Rokugo-san is participating in? Well, all the more reason to make sure I come to watch, then! From what I've seen, you would be more formidable with one arm than many would be with two, but it is good you're putting your well being first. If it helps, if a certain Daidoji is anything to go by, the Crane give adoration rather easily.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion gave a most unladylike snort and covered her face with a fan. \"I am still not sure of that boy, every time we cross paths I feel as if some mischievous spirit is making a game of me. But for the bath house, there is a lovely one as part of the Scorpion Gardens. Mixed soaking and private booths, depending on your fancy. I usually take a private booth so I may attend to my needs without undue comment.\" She glanced at her arm, implying the use of opium. \"They also have hot stones and music, scents, and very pretty attendants. It is a delightful experience. I go as often as I can.\" \n\nShe stretched her back lazily and set the teacup aside. \"You would be very welcome to accompany me after this session if you wish.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana broke out into giggles, almost losing grip on her teacup. \"Perhaps the boy really is a mischievous spirit of some sort? Sent by the heavens to test our virtue!\" She continued to laugh more. \"As far as your offer goes, I would be honored, if as a Mantis I would be allowed to attend. Heat can help soothe muscles and aid in the healing process, and well, it would be nice to continue such conversation further.\" She smiled, and went back to sipping on her tea. By now her cup was empty, and she carefully set it on the grass next to her.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"The baths are open to all samurai of proper station, you would be welcome anytime.\" Technically even a ronin or a Unicorn could enter the establishment, Kaori had not been consulted when the rules were written and she tried not to think about it. That was one reason she didn't enter the larger mixed pools. Who knew what sort of degenerate ronin had been peeing in there? A priestess blessed the water daily but Kaori would rather be safe than sorry. \n\nShe loosened her top and slid the garment down her shoulder, carefully untying the sling so her arm could move freely. \"Do your worst, Moshi-sama, the sooner we begin the sooner we may retire to the blessed heat.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Well, in that case, I think I will join you when we finish!\" She replied cheerfully, sidling over to get close enough to continue her work with Kaori. \"Before we begin though, I'd like to propose something. So that it doesn't come as a complete surprise to you. As we're outdoors now, it occurs to me to invoke the water Kami with a prayer. It will cause some rain, but it aids with healing as well. If you don't mind getting a bit wet, we may be able to do more exercises than usual without risking overexertion! What say you?\""
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"I do not fear the rain at all,\" Kaori loved the rain, it was the cleanest expression of water. She didn't even mind the mud while it was raining, and had frequently danced under a summer downpour in the gardens. \"Let the Kami do as they please. I would suffer far worse than the damp if my arm returned to me that much sooner.\"\n\nShe peered up at the sky and considered removing her outer kimono... No, propriety demanded some things must be done in a certain order.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana offered a smile, and reached into her pouch for a small bottle of Sake, opening it, and pouring it out onto the ground. Afterwards, she closed her eyes, and took a few moments to meditate before stretching her arms out to the heavens, \"Oh, Kami of Water, hear my prayer,\" She began, her voice ringing loud and clear across the gardens. \"May you shed your tears about the honorable and your servants, bringing rejuvenation to all who bask in your presence. I beg you accept this humble offering and sincere prayer!\"\n\nShe held her arms up for a few seconds, as the skies above them slowly began to darken somewhat. Over the next few minutes, the clouds seemed to grow darker and heavier, and eventually, the first drops of rain began to fall. Before long, a consistent gentle rain fell over the garden at the estate. As it contacted Kaori, she would feel a sense of lightness and rejuvenation in her body.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The little Scorpion sat, letting the rain soak into her clothes, weighing down her hair. She closed her eyes and let droplets fall from her lashes. A smile curled her lips. This felt amazing. It was the most refreshing thing she had ever experienced. If she could have this every time she crawled out of bed, she would be clan champion in another ten years. Right then she felt like she could fight an oni. \n\n\"Amazing,\" She murmured as she flexed her wounded arm slowly. Pain was still there, but not nearly so severe. And her mobility seemed improved... \"Now Moshi-sama let us not waste time!\" She said, with something close to excitement. \"Do your worst now, I shall not complain.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kaori's joy was becoming infectious, Kana breaking out into a big, toothy grin as the rain came down as well. The energy in the rain left her feeling as though she had just gotten up from a full night's sleep in the most comfortable bed in all of Rokugan, ready to face whatever the day offered. As it cascaded over her head, she felt herself feeling cooled off from the growing heat of the days as well. While the spell had been cast for Kaori, Kana certainly seemed to be enjoying the gift of the Kami herself.\n\nMeeting Kaori's determined look with kind eyes, she took her arm. \"Right! No time wasted. What we'll do today is that I want you to extend as far as you feel you can, and then I'll help you the rest of the way. We will do ten, take a break, and then repeat. Okay?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Understood.\" Kaori thrust her arm forward with a grim determination. Her body was soon rigid with pain, and despite the cooling rain she was sweating, but she had no intention of wasting this opportunity. She persevered, each rep faced with the same dedication as her thousand cuts, her strength training, her studies of poisons. Her jaw was clenching until her teeth creaked, but she still asked for more. \n\nWhen Kana finally indicated they were finished she slumped backwards and spread her good arm, opening herself to the gentle cascade. \"Moshi-sama, I may live a hundred years and never drop my guard again.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana continued, the rain at this point as refreshing as it was when it had first came, though it had caused some rather noticeable running in the shugenja's eye makeup. She seemed oblivious to it, however, continuing to aid Kaori with extending her arm fully, speaking words of encouragement for her friend throughout.\n\nAfter an extensive session, Kana was beaming at Kaori. \"That may be wise. But if I may lighten the topic somewhat, you've made some excellent progress! I'm having to do far less of the work myself when we've begun. You'll be wielding your weapon with ease again within a season at this rate.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"A welcome accomplishment to be sure,\" Kaori said. She pulled her top back up over her shoulder, her arm howling at her now for some rest. \"And the offer is still good, to come with me to the bath house. The rain is lovely but the mud not so much, and I simply *Must* Take some medication in a safe place.\" \n\nTori appeared in the shelter of the estate's porch, a bundle slung around her neck and a pair of umbrellas in hand. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana suppressed a chuckle. Given Kaori's overall demeanor, and how she had reacted to the poor turtle before, it wasn't surprising that she would be so adverse tot he idea of mud. \"Of course, Bayushi-san. I would be happy to still join you. Please, lead the way.\"\n\nGlancing towards the estate's shelter, she smiled warmly to Tori, making note of the umbrellas she had brought for them. \"Thank you, Tori-san!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The rain pattered on the umbrellas as they stepped out into the street, Tori holding one out for each of the samurai, rain cascading down on her own head. It was nearly absurd for the two drenched women to now be under shelter, but appearances should be maintained. Gentlewomen did not prance about getting rained on when there was a perfectly good peasant girl to shelter them. \n\nFortunately it wasn't very far from the Bayushi estate to the bath house. \n\n\"We will be reserving one of the private chambers,\" Kaori told the manager, who bowed and handed over the tag to the usual room. Kaori liked good ventilation when she smoked, and the staff knew it was far easier to get the smell out of the room when most of it was carried away naturally. \n\n\"Well, Moshi-sama,\" She added, flicking back wet hair and gesturing to the women's side of the house, \"Shall we?\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana offered a slight smile to Tori on the walk over, shuffling over to give her a bit of space under the umbrella if she so desired. She knew she couldn't to too much without engaging in impropriety, but she did want to show at least some courtesy to the serving girl. She found herself equally grateful for the short walk, following Kaori inside and letting her handle all of the speaking to the manager. \n\n\"Of course, Bayushi-san! As refreshing as the rain has been, I'm certainly looking forward for a chance to warm up a little bit.\" She made her way over to the womens' side and the changing area, slipping off her sandals.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Her nostrils flared as she inhaled deeply. \"Oh sweet Kami, that is a good incense... I love this place so much. I always feel cleansed in mind as well as body when I leave here.\" \n\nShe entered the women's side alongside Tori. The servant began to unpack her satchel, producing fresh clothing for Kaori which she placed in one cubby, and equally fresh clothing for Kana from Kaori's private wardrobe. She took their wet garments with a bow, carefully pressing the excess water from them before bundling them up. \n\nKaori's arm now hung limp at her side as she headed for the wash stations with Kana in tow. The small warrior had several scars, some old and deep some fresh and fading, belying her indolent reputation. She sauntered to the stools and took a seat, eyeing her friend sideways. \"At some point Moshi-sama I may implore you to help with my back. One can only do so much with one arm.\""
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh... Oh that does smell nice!\"\n\nKana slips out of her outfit, handing it to Tori. While Kana has a few scars, the most notable being one just below the left side of her collarbone, as one would expect from a shugenja, though, she lacks the scarring that comes from a life of battle. The Moshi's physical training was apparent, however; her muscles were clearly defined. Most apparent, though, was her brightly colored full-back koi tattoo. While it was uncommon to see on a Mantis, it did seem somewhat a clash with the cheerful priestess' demeanor.\n\nSitting across from Kaori, she nods, and smiles. \"Of course! Just let me know what you need,\" She replied, cheerfully. It did not escape her that there would have been a time not so long in the past that she would have been a stammering mess at such a request. Yet... Circumstances had changed.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Her eyes lingered on the tattoo, it was a dramatic thing that had certainly taken a great deal of commitment. Kaori had always fancied herself with tattoos, something that ran up her arms and cupped her breasts perhaps, but her chosen path precluded it. \n\nShe sat down and began to wash, taking her time, enjoying the experience. Her eyes closed lazily and she really got into it, scouring her body clean with the washcloth. \n\nWhen she finished with everything she could reach with her good arm she turned plaintively to Kana, raising her eyebrows. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana seemed rather casual as she was washing herself, humming a cheerful took to herself as she did. Her eyes did go to Kaori as she moved to her injured arm, just in case she might accidentally agitate her injury, but she was pleased when nothing so unfortunate happened. Kana moved fairly quickly despite her larger frame; she was evidently excited to get right into the baths - so much so she had to just sit there for a few moments while Kaori finished up.\n\nNodding in acknowledgement to her gesture, Kana made her way over, taking the washcloth in her hand and making to wash Kaori's back. \"Let me know if it's too much pressure or anything, okay?\" While she certainly didn't think of Kaori was weak, she was also quite aware of her own strength and how slight the Scorpion was in comparison.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Kaori was only slight by comparison to the Mantis || athletics 3 || her shoulders and wrists carried most of her strength. One could guess now why she wore open outfits—drawing the eye to her chest, while covering the swordswoman's forearms. People might dismiss her as a random strumpet, but she did nothing without a good reason. \n\nClosing her eyes now she leaned back into the scrubbing. \"Oh my gratitude, Moshi-sama. You could not believe how frustrating it is to have Tori do this for me. She never works as deep as I would prefer.\" \n\nShe only stood five feet tall, but her 125 lbs was well distributed. She was not lean, she maintained a nicely curved figure that would please the eye of all but the most traditional samurai, and she took pains to minimize her body's scars by shielding them from the sun whenever possible. However, from this angle, Kana might observe that her wet hair concealed a deep scar on her head, indicative of a fierce blow in her youth. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh! Well very good then!\" She replied cheerfully, continuing the scrubbing. She even worked just a little bit harder at Kaori's request. \"Forgive me if this is odd to say, but I'm seeing perhaps more of Kaori the warrior here,\" She replied. \"Not that I didn't think you capable after what you have said, of course! It's just now I'm *Seeing* The extent of your training,\" She noted. \"Might I ask what your usual regimen is?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"A thousand cuts a day is the absolute minimum,\" Kaori said. \"I also train isometrics with river-stones. My training is private, I do not care for company while I work, so my usual routine is done in my quarters.\" \n\nShe mimed holding out a stone. \"It does not take much to strengthen the body, only time and a certain satisfaction in self-torment. Tori reads to me while I work to strengthen the body. I do not desire the muscles of a Hida, as I never intend to lift a weapon heavier than an odachi.\" \n\nThe muscles of her back flexed as she shifted, evidence of time spent at the archery range as well. As Kana finished scouring her she inclined her head. \"My gratitude, Moshi-sama. You cannot imagine how dreadful it is to feel your body is only partially cleaned.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Oh, fortunes, your really do have quite the routine, don't you?\" If Kaori happened to be looking behind her, she would see that Kana was visibly impressed. \"I'm afraid you'd find my skills with the blade lacking compared to your own. I do much work with heavy stones, buckets of water, and long hikes, however. I personally try to build up endurance and power. I suppose I actually do find myself envying the muscles of the Hida! Or at least to exercise enough to work off my diet...\"\n\nAfter chuckling a bit, Kana sat up once more. \"And you're all done! I'm just happy that I could help, Bayushi-san. Also, please, Kana-san will suffice.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Pouring water over herself, Kaori closed her eyes in pleasure at the thought of sweat and grime sluicing away. This was what made her a real person, a real samurai... This attention to cleanliness, this careful exacting self perfection. She bit back a happy groan. Some corner of her mind replayed Kana's words. \"My gratitude nonetheless, Kana-san. You must then call me Kaori-san no?\" \n\nWith her sister and Yuto in the city, that made three she was now on given name familiarity with. \n\n\"Shall I return the favor then, Kana-san? I have the strength in one hand to make up the difference. \"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"As you wish, Kaori-san.\" Kana replied with a grin. Kana herself could not think of a great many people she was on a first name basis with herself, but was glad to add another to the count.\n\nRolling her shoulders, Kana turned around on the stool, offering her back to Kaori at her request. \"That is most kind of you to offer, and I'd be honored!\"\n\nKana's koi tattoo would be more clearly visibly now. The blackwork on the waves and scales making up the majority of the piece. It was evident the precise linework must have taken the artist hours to complete effectively. On the fish itself, the black transitioned to brilliant reds and oranges, the colors standing out all the more against the blackwork. Flowers surrounded the fish in a vibrant pink.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The Scorpion took full advantage of the offer to examine Kana's tattoo, her nails lightly running over the woman's skin. She'd never had a chance to look at a tattoo so close before, and she marveled at the tiny details, the slight blurring, the way the ink spread out under the skin. It was a magnificent piece of art. \n\nShe scrubbed generously away, humming in soft musical cadances as she worked. She kept her wounded arm tucked close in her lap, her squatted position on the stool allowing her to keep it close, but it still burned and prickled, throbbing with every beat of her heart. She could not wait to relieve the pain. \n\n\"When I was a girl I wanted tattoos,\" She said. \"One of my father's ronin was tattooed, and I always marveled at it. I could never look closely though. He was not a very pleasant man.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana closed her eyes and relaxed her muscles, letting Kaori get to work. She could feel the tension melting off of her as time passed; at this rate there would be a decent chance she would just fall asleep as soon as she actually got to the bath. She was already slipping when she heard Kaori's question, which managed to perk her up slightly.\n\n\"Oh? I think that would suit you very well indeed, Kaori-san! Have you ever considered what you would like to get?\" She asked. \"I felt a Koi and flowers would help me fit in with some of the sailors, while also keeping those feminine details myself.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Oh I never could go through with it.\" Her father had sneered at the ronin's tattoos as self-defaceing and a bad way to self identify yourself. Who was easier to pick out of a crowd, he would say, a man with blue eyes or a man with an octopus crawling up his neck? She had enough mischief to manage without becoming involved in criminal enterprises or having people think she was connected too closely to pirates. \n\n\"When I did think of such things I imagined sleeves that came up to my shoulders and around my chest,\" She touched herself to outline the areas. \"Something I could reveal easily if I wore my kimono loose. But my ideas changed every time I thought on it.\" \n\nShe rinsed Kana off and rose. \"There! Now your skin glows with new vigor. Let us for the hot pool now. Do you...\" She made a gesture as if smoking from a pipe. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"I... Can understand that.\" As much as Kana had grown to develop an appreciation for the art form, she knew that fair or not, it had certain implications. There were those of the Mantis who had embraced those implications happily, and certainly trying to fit in with them was a factor in her decision. That said, she couldn't deny that keeping it on the back, at least for now, was at least somewhat pragmatic. Then again, she had a bad habit of standing out in a crowd to begin with...\n\n\"Oh, that does sound gorgeous!\" Kana chirped at her description. \"One of my pillow books had a character with something similar. Just hinting at them in respectable company...\" She sighed dreamily.\n\n\"And thank you very much, Kaori-san! Fortunes, that's so much better than if I tried to do it myself...\" She got to her feet, stretching a little bit before turning to face her.\n\nAt the gesture of smoking, Kana wasn't quite so naive as to not take all of her meaning. Many people smoked, but given her condition, it wasn't out of the question that she had been given medical opium. \"Ah... I've tried tobacco before!\" She answered, avoiding any potential ambiguity.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"I have never tried tobacco, but I have smelled it before and it is not unpleasant.\" Kaori had learned her lesson about getting into mischief around a Mantis, and had no intention of opening herself to such denunciation again. She shook her head when Tori appeared with a wooden box and lamp, the servant disappearing just as quickly. Tossing her towel over her shoulder and cradling her throbbing arm she set her teeth and led the way down to the soaking pools. The private women's pools came before the mixed bathing areas and her usual spot was waiting. She tossed her towel to the bench and entered at once, breathing out a sigh as the hot water engulfed her body. \"Oh... Oh I needed this,\" She moaned aloud. \"I do not think my fingers could bear much more.\" \n\nThe wounded muscle relaxed by slow degrees under the blessed heat, and her tired body drank the relief greedily. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana thought for a moment of encouraging Kaori to partake; she was confident that the use was legitimate medical opium. However, not wanting to put her in an awkward spot, and perhaps not wanting to put herself in a position where she might have to explain the smell, she left it where it was and slid into the tub. She let out a little surprised noise at the warmth initially, but adjusted fairly quickly, getting comfortable across from Kaori. She closed her eyes, and exhaled.\n\n\"I didn't even realize I needed this myself...\""
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"It is a ritual of mine to bathe as often as I may,\" The little Scorpion sighed. Her arm was prickling. \"Cleanliness is the best expression of gratitude for our lives and the world around us.\" \n\nShe closed her eyes and let her body slowly unknot itself. There were deeper spots she would have to have massaged out, but this was very sublime. \"I will face the muck when I must but it is always a temporary state to be abhorred. Is this your first time in a Scorpion bath house?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"I suppose I understand that, Kaori-san. Cleanliness and honing of both spirit *And* Body are something that my family emphasizes. I try to visit at least every other day myself. To answer your question, though, never a Scorpion bathouse. This is... A very nice change of pace.\" She smiled softly. Like many things involving the clan, Mantis bathouses tended to be a bit louder than the average. A bit of peace and quiet when she bathed was a rare treat, and one to be very much appreciated.\n\nIt also didn't hurt that the place was quite well appointed as well. While Kana would never say so openly, given how unbecoming it was, she did enjoy the touches of luxury that the Scorpion, or at least her Scorpion friend, seemed to indulge in. While often mistaken for a monk, Kana certainly didn't favor the ascetic lifestyle.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Perhaps one day I will treat you to a more *Full* Experience,\" Kaori's lips shaped the word as a promise of very improper delights. There was a cradle in the rim of the tub to support her head and she leaned back onto it with a faint moan, using a nub to massage the stiff muscles of her neck. Under the water her left hand rubbed tenderly at her right arm. \"After all, the Mantis have been very good hosts to me in the past, it seems only right that I return the favor.\" \n\nMusic began to trickle through, the high ceilings allowing sound to trickle in from other areas. It was tricky to keep the instruments tuned in the heat and the humidity, so there were frequent breaks in the entertainment. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Full experience? Oh, that does sound interesting!\" Kana replied cheerfully. || Disadvantage: Romantically Awkward || She closed her eyes and remained in the moment for a while, only opening them when Kaori spoke again. \"It gladdens me to hear that there's no hard feelings in regards to all that's happened. Alliance or no, I do hope that we can continue to ensure we keep things on a positive note.\"\n\nMaking note of the melodies that filled the air, she sat up a bit straighter. \"Ah... Was the music travelling here like this by design?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"No hard feelings at all,\" Kaori lied like a rug. \"I am just happy to put it all behind me and move on with my life. What good does a grudge do in the end? The wounds heal just as slow.\" \n\n*Revenge is the opium that gives comfort while the healing continues.*\n\nShe stirred the water lazily with one toe just under the surface. \"I'm given to understand that your ambassador's pet ronin is entering the dueling tournament. Will there be any other notables representing the Mantis, or is she your chosen representative? That is a lot of duty to place on one ronin's shoulders.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana nodded to Kaori's response. While she wasn't certain she'd be going to say hello to Mai anytime soon, even given their... Past encounter, for now, she seemed satisfied.\n\nShe did wrinkle her nose at the mention of Chiyoko as a \"Pet\", however. \"Ah, yes! The Iajutsu tournament. Chiyoko is our representative. I've known her to be quite capable and honorable; she's certainly shown so to me when we've worked together. I've every confidence she will do our clan proud!\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Well, if I meet her I shall do my best not to harm her. Though a woman of her skill cannot be defeated easily.\" \n\nKilling Chiyoko would be a beautiful way to smack back at the Mantis ambassador, but Kaori was trying a different public face now, and it would not do to go about smiting random ronin. Besides, when she was honest, there was little chance of her left arm alone defeating the deadly *Niten*. \n\n\"You'll be present, I hope? You and your ambassador?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"I hope so too. Though... There's a danger in any sort of competition. I know I have been cautioned about that in my own tournament as well. I would be lying if I said it was terribly worrying, but it is still something that hangs in my mind. In any case, I am confident you'll both put on an excellend performance.\" She flashed a toothy grin to Kaori. \"Of course I plan on being present! Barring some sort of emergency, I've every intent of taking in the contest in full.\"\n\nKana stretched her legs out beneath the water's surface, rolling her shoulders. \"In that case though, I hope you'll be taking in some of the hand to hand battles as well!\"\n\n||"
}
] | 155 | 7,992 |
259.6 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Obscured by trees and ringed by walls, the Bayushi estate presented a perfectly proper, yet perfectly archetypical Scorpion manor. The trees cast the grounds into permanent shade and the gardens were modest for lack of proper light. \n\nThe house proper consisted of several comfortable sets of apartments meant for the use of any Bayushi. Up to a dozen samurai could be comfortably, if closely, housed together. Like Kyuden Bayushi itself walls could be repositioned as necessary to give the residents the privacy they needed or open up the floor plan for easier meetings. \n\nThe Scorpion known as Kaori had just come in from the garden where she had been drilling her thousand cuts, and was settling down to a nice little lunch that Tori had laid out for her on a balcony. Her eyes were lazily hooded and the breezes tickled her nose as they moved through the cooling trees. \n\nIt was the very picture of peace and tranquility. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The Bayushi state was a beautiful sight to behold, if there was one thing the scorpions valued it was their home. Sadly an invasion of said property was in order, in total six figures moved through the gardens towards the manor. Five of these men were Yoriki assigned to their Magistrate by orders of the ambassador, each donning light armor with a set of Daisho. But in their hands were bows, specifically given to them by Rokugo Yuto for this assignment. They tread behind the Samurai closely, obeying in silence as he demanded such. \n\nBayushi no Rokugo Yuto, a Magistrate of the scorpion. Despite his status, he always remembered to stay humble knowing his place as a vassal. That was simply how he was raised, only ever believing to be a sword swung by others, how the Kami had shifted his fate.. The only weapon Yuto carried was his Daisho, even though he had men to do his dirty work, one was still capable and preferred to be hands on. Though if they were lucky, it wouldn't come to that.. \n\nThe Magistrate wore his typical field attire, wearing an all black haori, kimono, hakama, and straw hat. Adorned with the scorpions mon on his back, though his hair fell down draping over it slightly. He walked in front of the Yoriki officers given to him, towering above them all. Right now he commanded a presence unusual for the Junshin to boast, needing to remain stoic and powerful. \n\nAll the servants and guards would have been waved away, the Magistrate and his Yoriki were permitted by orders from Soshi Junichi. The warrant itself said it all, of course he kept a calm composure as to not startle anyone on the premise. Wanting to handle this calmly. Taking a deep breath, they entered the house, already having an idea of Kaoris whereabouts due to receiving information from the servants. Not before long they'd have stood before the door that led to her balcony..\n\nGesturing for the men to stay back, there was no need to startle her. They'd have stood just outside the door frame, ready for anything if the situation demanded it. Sliding the door open, he'd leave it that way, stepping forward to greet Bayushi Kaori. \n\n\"Kaori-Sama, it is good to see you in robust health. But I come to bring you urgent news..\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "\"Mistress, men are coming!\" A hasty, urgent whisper from behind the door. \"It is Rokugo-sama, and he has armed men!\" \n\n\"Do as you must,\" Was Kaori's only response. The servant hastened off to make herself and Kaori's poison collection scarce. The simple box appeared to be a makeup kit with pots of paints and sticks to grind, but the bottom drawer was the Scorpion's most valuable paperwork. It was a sloppy Scorpion who could not clean up after herself. She knew that Tori would consign the whole thing to the fire if she needed to. \n\nWith that out of the way she resumed her meal. If she was going to be in trouble she might not eat again for a long time. If ever. \n\n\"Rokugo-san, what a pleasant surprise,\" She said as the big man entered her sanctuary. \"Do make yourself comfortable. What news is so urgent that its messenger must be so closely guarded? Are the Lion finally storming the gates or has the curse of the Speaker's office struck once again?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Taking a breath, part of him didn't want to do this, but duty demanded his loyalty. Having her and his men's best interest, conflict wasn't the way to resolve this. Feeling her unease as she'd of course know of his Yoriki. Having no desire to lie he spoke true and plain as always. \n\n\"They're Yoriki, assigned to me in order to fulfill our duty. A warrant has been put out for your arrest, you are charged with: Breaking and entering, solicitation, theft, attempted murder, conspiracy of treason against the scorpion, and incitement against the unicorn clan.\" \n\nThe sad part was Yuto didn't doubt some of these charges were true, though he believed this could be mended. Hopefully things will go smoothly. \n\n\"My men are at bay due to my orders, I'd rather resolve this without violence. It would only make you look worse, I don't wish to see you face the worst.\" \n\nRokugo Yuto was the best and worst person for this job, while there was no denying his feelings and attachment toward Kaori. One couldn't deny that if someone else were sent, violence would have been inevitable, perhaps that was known by the man who gave the order.. \n\n\"I'd like you to cooperate and come with me, that would be best for all of us.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "The woman stared down at her food for a long moment, her mind racing. What? What? What? This made no sense. This was nonsense. It would be more reasonable to think Yuto had misread the name on the warrant. She'd done many things, especially recently, but what? \n\nTo buy herself time she took another bite of her food. \n\n\"Sit *Down*, Rokugo-san,\" She said more forcefully. \"What threat is a crippled woman half your size? You wildly over-imagine my skill if you think I could flee this estate in such a condition, much less cut my way through your men. In truth, I do not know if this is a compliment or some sort of self-depreciating joke. Do have a dumpling, they are delicious.\" \n\nShe looked up at him with round doe eyes that had killed lesser men. \"Unless you intend to take my head, stop blocking the breezes. Please. Sit down, and tell me in detail what sad mischief this is.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "On the inside, she was processing the situation. Her long pause and change in tone told him that it wasn't hard to see, but it told him to be on guard. Standing off to the side to not block any wind from touching the woman, he'd go on to speak. \n\n\"I hope you would not choose to run, it's better that I find and arrest you before someone else less appealed by who you are does. You are strong, but this isn't a matter that can be fought with a sword alone.\"\n\nHaving no intention on forcing the woman, he simply couldn't let her weasel out of this. Truly the man was caught between a rock and a hard place, crossing his arms he looked intently towards her. \n\n\"I'm also tasked with conducting the investigation on your crimes, I'll be departing to interrogate the Mantis. Besides what I've already told you, I have nothing more to give. The quickest resolve to potentially clear your name or lessen the sentence given is by cooperating. Allow me to get to the bottom of this.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Her eyes darkened and she continued eating. \"I see,\" She murmured. \"You already believe the accusations yourself. My fate is indeed sealed if even my own clan has turned their face against me. At least tell me this, for the sake of the adventures we have shared, who signed this warrant? Who has ordered that I be humiliated in such a public way? I would know the name of my accuser so I can try to understand their real motives.\" \n\nShe dipped her dumpling in sauce. The Mantis was an important clue, if Yuto wasn't such a straight arrow she might have thought the slip intentional. Was Mai seeking revenge for the game Kaori had played at her daughter's expense? That seemed as unlikely as the Mantis admitting any other part of that night's activities. Maybe... Maybe there was a defense she could make there if she was willing to go on the offense. Mai wasn't stupid, but she was a pirate first. That ronin was more reasonable. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Another deep breath, it seemed she was convinced someone was setting her up. It wasn't like Yuto knew for a fact she committed such crimes, he simply refused to rule out anything. Having to remove personal feelings from the line of work he invested in. \n\n\"I'm certain it won't come to public humiliation, there is to be a trial. You can face it and walk away innocent. I'd deny such charges against you if it weren't for my position as Magistrate, but if there is evidence of your crime I cannot ignore it. Even so, I have not turned against you. Nor will I ever..\" \n\nStepping forward, he'd have peeled the mask off of his face. Revealing the lower half of the samurai's features, kneeling before her he'd speak again. \n\n\"Soshi Junichi has given the order. He and I get along well. If you are found guilty I'm certain we can lessen your sentence, make it not so harsh or humiliating\" \n\nEmphasizing the If in his speech as he spoke. Extending his arm forward, he'd have offered the lady his mask. It was a symbol of everything he was, everything he believed to have stood for. In some ways, it was his life. Bayushi no Rokugo Yuto was now putting it in her hands. \n\n\"Come with me..\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "._ouroboros_",
"message": "Those black eyes studied the Scorpion almost pityingly. Was he truly so naive? Was this poor junshin really imagining that harm had not yet been done? In some ways she supposed these traits were ideal for a magistrate, crushing resistance and the will to protest under a ruthless onslaught of good intentions. \n\n\"Rokugo-san, do you not understand that the punishment has already been meted out?\" She murmured sadly as she took the mask. She bowed over it before passing it back. \"That stamp alone has doomed me. In time perhaps you will understand the depth of my wound. Know this, that any judgement inflicted on me is the merest insult after injury.\" \n\nShe picked up her wakizashi by the saya, grip reversed, and stood gracefully. Without another glance at her captor she walked off the balcony into her rooms. Unless he moved to assault her she would rack the weapon and head down the stairs, withdrawn into the mountain top where snow was yet untrodden.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "There was a certain relief in her words, yet one couldn't stomach the feeling of disappointment at the same time. Had he failed her by complying with the orders? Was there nothing the Magistrate could have done to repel the warrant? Taking back his mask felt wrong in a way, rather than putting it back on he tucked it into the Obi on his waist. As she walked through the estate he made sure his men didn't jump out at her, not wanting to startle the princess. Things were going good, no need to spoil them now. \n\nWhen they got outside, Yuto followed behind the woman, with his group of men behind him. Deciding to keep them at a safe distance to ensure she'd be comfortable, serving as an escort rather than aggressive captors. Of course the men were on guard, each having their suspicions at why they're letting Kaori walk. Six men with six cuffs, you'd think a fight was to break out, somehow resolving it peacefully didn't sit well with them. \n\nIn a way it didn't sit well with Yuto either, but for different reasons. Kaori truly made the Rokugo ponder his actions, was he making the right decision? There was no way to be certain until speaking with Soshi Junichi."
}
] | 220.5 | 2,596 |
46 | 2023-06-29 | GuildTextChat | [
{
"author": "hida",
"message": "A courier in imperial finery arrives at the Embassy bearing the a letter with the Imperial seal.\n\nA peacekeeping coalition is being lead by Crab ambassador Hida Koyama to quell hostility between the castes. A samurai from your delegation will be assigned to this Coalition and will act as liason and representative of your clan reporting directly to Hida-sama until such a time the coalition can be dismissed. Please send your selection to the Crab Embassy at your earliest convenience.\n\nOtomo Tanimaru,\n\nImperial Overseer\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Well, you heard the overseer!\n\nWhich one of you mantis wants the job?"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Take this to your clan chat!! This is an ic channel!!"
}
] | 18 | 138 |
359.411765 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "Junichi's Estate rested toward the southwest end of the Noble Quarters. It was a modest home, most aptly described as tastefully sensible with keen attention to the landscaping. To the side of the house was both a storage shed and the koi pond. The pond itself was designed to look as if it was natural to the land, dotted with a few clusters of small trees upon the gentle slope of the water's edge. Nestled between two of the outcroppings of trees, toward the back of the pond, was a small concrete shrine dedicated to the Kami Benzaiten, the goddess of beauty, reason, wisdom, wealth, and the arts. Behind it was a simple wooden storage shed with only one entryway, a door barred from the inside. \n\nAt the front of the house was a pristinely kept grassy courtyard centered by a massive cherry blossom tree. Just beyond its wide gnarled branches were the open black double doors into the main entrance of the house. A bench seat wrapped halfway around the back of the tree facing the entryway.\n\nOnce through the doors of the home, one would immediately enter into a large entertainment space fit with an abundance of comfortable seats and small tables. Three Geisha were tucked to the side of the room, each playing a different instrument. The woman on the left-hand side played the flute, while the woman sat in the middle played drums, and the woman on the right played a shamisen all while very beautifully singing in a voice both tender and sweet.\n\nFurther back was a large dining room table nicely decorated with fancy kettles, cutlery, and a giant bouquet of yellow kerria dotted with white magnolia flowers and lavender sprigs. To the right and left of the dining room were more private sitting rooms. Both were fairly similar spaces, furnished with a few chairs and paintings of exotic landscapes. The only difference being that the left wings sitting room contained a beautifully intricate kamidana, obviously crafted by an artisan of the Phoenix clan. Its most notable feature being the five great elemental dragons perched along the top of the roofline. This space was a little more somber, somehow seeming much more quiet than the rest of the house.\n\nAside from the main areas open to his guests, the rest of the house was divided into two separate wings. The right wing of the house contained the bath and both Junichi's bedroom and private study, with the latter of the two rooms being locked with Junichi himself keeping the only key. The left wing contained the kitchen and the servant's quarters. This was the wing that connected to the same side that the koi pond was on with a door exiting directly out to it."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had wandered into the gardens. The gold and blue eye had glanced over the koi pond and she had to hold back the intrusive thought of jumping in. She simply had shrugged it off silently as she felt the giant of her commander walk behind her. Not that she cared for the social pressure he granted. Oh no, she was much more concerned about getting crushed under his boot. Although it was clear she'd survive that anyways. \n\nShe then turned to the commander and raised one eyebrow. *\"I need you to be your best today. After all I have no intentions of stabbing nor getting stabbed. But you are very much aware of that. Not that I prefer having you stabbed instead.\"* Himiko spoke and rubbed the back of her head. \n\n*\"Sorry Akodo-sama.\"* Himiko had bowed down before she had continued her stroll through the garden. Ending up at the main door she had knocked. Just once. A very loud thud that could've made the house collapse if she were bigger. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo followed Kitsu-dono through the gardens, watching her as she seemed to be dallying before the mission. What was running through her mind? He had not yet built up the rapport that they would need yet, but he was confident that they would get there eventually.\n\n\"It is my hope that no one gets stabbed today as well, Ambassador-dono. While I am uncomfortable with meeting with the Scorpion clan after they were just revealed to be starting a war between Unicorn and Lion, a war that would have cost tens of thousands of lives, I can understand the merit and logic in what you are doing. I am here to show the power that your words and position carry, and by being here insure that no one attempts to make any stupid decisions. If you should even need to defend yourself, then I have failed at something.\"\n\nWhile he was in his stone faced, stoic mask for the meeting, he pulled it back for just a moment to offer her a warm and encouraging smile.\n\n\"Just remember who you are, the respect that you as the physical manifestation of our clan and ancestors hold, and that you can never trust what is said at court among allies, least of all Scorpions.\"\n\nAnd with that, he followed her up to the house and stood a pace behind her as she knocked on the door. *He is inviting an Ambassador to his house? And he made her knock on the door? Are we not expected?*"
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "Junichi was lounging in the entertainment room reading through the collection of stories he had purchased the night prior. There was quite an array of provocations, and they were not sectioned in any particular order. Some stories were familiar, others foreign, all modestly interesting to flip through. As he was reading a story of how a-\n```\"-dog appeared to the man in a dream, telling him that if he would take the ashes of burnt mortar and sprinkle it on withered trees, the trees would revive, and suddenly put out flowe-\"```\nA loud ***'THUD!'*** Would reverberate off of the door through the main room of the house, jarring Junichi from his louse. \n\n*'It must be the Ambassador.'*\n\nJunichi thought to himself while looking down the room to the pristinely set table which he had already inspected on three separate occasions. He still thought it was missing something... But there was no time for that now. Getting up Junichi would pat smooth his white and red trimmed Kimono. Taking his left hand he would comb through his wavy black hair to brush his locks from slate gray eyes. Standing upright, standing at 6'0\", he would take a deep breath before making his way toward the entrance. Opening the large black double doors into his estate Junichi would smile to the... Ambassador? \n\nWhen Junichi looked out he saw a man older than himself, very obviously a Lion, but it was to his understanding the Ambassador was a woman?\n\nHis gaze would then shift to the courtly dressed, yet battle-scarred, Cub by his side.\n\n*\"Ah, they must be travelers on their way to visit the Embassy.\"*\n\nJunichi thought to himself while giving an acknowledging bow to both of them. \n\n\"Noble Lion, it is always a favorable sign to have those so valiant arrive at my doors. Do not fret, my home regularly receives those of your kin throughout the year. I believe you and the young Samurai are looking for your Clan Embassy? Their buildings are just across the road making up the four estates on the right. If the Fortunes happen to fall in your favor, you may even catch Ambassador Kitsu Himiko on her way over here for tea.\"\n\nHe would bow once more to them both, finally stating. \n\n\"May the Kami's light shine favorably along your path.\"\n\nJunichi would then begin to retreat into his house. Closing the doors he would make his way back to the lounge of his home and resume his stories until the Ambassador arrived.\n\n||\nFeel free to interrupt me at any point! ;)||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo looked fit. To. Be. Tied. His normally calm and composed demeanor suddenly became flushed with rage. The only thing holding him back was a lifetime a disciple. He had been ready to kick the door down and begin an act of incredible violence, but the small hand of Himiko and his trust in her kept his Matsu blood in check. When, finally, she quipped that the invitation had been voided and they would leave, Akodo felt some sense of vindication. He promptly turned on his heels and followed his Ambassador away, his looming form obscuring her from the sight of the door."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Tsk.\"* Himiko clicked when the door closed in her face. Something about Kazuko saying she should not hold back rung in the back of her head. Instead of Akodo losing his temper it was the ambassador that had displayed an act of violence. Alas it was violence with the intention of harm but more with the meaning of intimidation. At first it was like the ambassador was going for another polite knock that she had displayed before. But as a matter of fact it had been not that case. Her fist went crashing down through the paper thin door. Then her hand had reached out for the ankle of the Scorpion ambassador. Stopping him in his way. As she may have prevented herself from janking him towards her with the sheer force. She had created a hole big enough to show her face through. As she started speaking she had slowly let go of his ankle. \n\n*\"We came here for a cup of tea. Unless you wish to retract your invite Ambassador Soshi-sama.\"* Himiko spoke. It was polite. Behind her back was a hand to stop the Akodo behind her from charging in or getting offended by the act of the Scorpion. After all she had not introduced them properly. Yet it was rather bland of the Scorpion to assume how grand a person would look. Perfect. Being easily underestimated gave room for negotiations on her side. \n\n*\"As for that we shall take that the invitation has been voided.\"* Himiko had turned around and took her leave. Dusting off her hands.\n\n*\"May the ancestors grant you wisdom and the Kami radiate on your path.\"* Himiko chanted. *\"As for your door. I'll send my greatest craftsmen when I return home.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "Junichi had not even managed to turn around before a pair of hands exploded through his door, grabbing him firmly by the ankles. Out of panic, Junichi would try to step back and escape, but with nowhere to step he only managed to throw himself off balance. He would vainly try to catch himself by lurching forwards, though was unable to completely pull himself upright while continuing to fall to the wooden floor below.\n\n***\"HELP!\"***\n\nHe *Screamed* Out just before crashing headfirst onto the floor. \n\n***'THUD!'***\n\nThe back of his head hit and suddenly his world went *Black.* A panicked scurry of footsteps could immediately be heard from around the house. Just out of sight from the holes the Lion Ambassador had created she would hear a woman scream out.\n\n*\"Junichi-Sama?!\"*\n\nThe Kenin around his home would gather one by one to tend to Junichi. There were three in total: a stoutly older woman with long gray hair and tired brown eyes who tended to the cooking, a fit middle-aged man that handled the landscaping that was brandishing a large cooking knife, and the young woman who had screamed with long black hair and forest green eyes, she was Junichi's personal assistant. She would be the first to kneel at his side, checking to see that he was in fact still breathing."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Yet Himiko had continued walking as if nothing had happened. She had set the tone to not underestimate her and the consequences were clear. The child had felt bad in the back of her mind but this was perhaps the hard way she was talking about. Wishing that the kami could grant her a break from stupidity every now and then. However it was only a matter of time before she had returned with a much bigger lion. Even bigger than the Akodo. Miu. \n\nHimiko had kept her hands off and gently opened the door. Staying outside as she let her fellow Kitsu do whatever she did best, heal. \n\n——— \n\nMiu had gently walked in and bowed down to the servants around Junichi. *\"I am Kitsu Miu, a shugenja. Please let me heal the Scorpion ambassador.\"* The Kitsu demanded. She stepped forward into the house and Himiko was right behind her for when the servants would throw a fit over her presence. Then Miu crouched next to the scorpion ambassador. Starting to summon a spell. During the casting of the spell the Kitsu had lifted the man carefully, making sure she put her hand under his head to not hurt his neck. She remained with her hand under his head to support him. That and perhaps much more efficient healing. The Kitsu's hands started to glow and her water ring (5) and spellcraft (5) should've amplified the healing spell. It had taken a few moments. If there was any form of damage on his head it would heal. And instead of casting only a normal water healing spell. A secondary spell had found him. Casting Typhoons surge, another water spell. It would renew the chi inside Junichi to perhaps wake him up. His energy should be spiking right now. Miu was ready to get smacked into the face. This had happened many times when she did this in school. \n\n*\"There there, you will be alright Ambassador-dono.\"* Miu spoke whilst still continuing to heal him with the typhoons surge. \n\nHimiko had stood beside Miu, occasionally looking back at Akodo. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "Permeating through the sterile cold of the darkness was a sensation of warmth Junichi had not felt in a *Long* Time. It was reminiscent of floating in calm ocean waves under the dusky summer sky. A time when all you could do was watch the shimmer of the setting sun set the ocean on fire. It was out there in that ethereal golden glow where you could feel the energy of the world synchronize... A feeling akin to the one Junichi had swirling inside of him right now.\n\nThe tender lull of a woman's voice would cause his eyes to flutter open, revealing a watery *Blue* Gaze. Junichjs vision would come back into focus able to rest upon the beautifully statuesque face of a woman, readily getting lost in her bright golden eyes that carefully watched over him. He would capture every detail of her in that moment from the patternlike scarring on her face, to how curly locks came down in spiraling threads of red like the burning tails of fireworks. The found that the brilliant eruption of lush red curls wonderfully accentuated her dark complexion, somewhat reminding him of a-\n\n\"... Poppy.\"\n\nThe guttural drone in his voice sounded like pebbles getting rolled around in crashing tides. As Junichi's regained his composure his eyes would slowly peel from the Shugenja tending to him and lazily roll about until he saw the young woman he had met with at his door earlier, as well as the man she was traveling with standing behind her. Junichi's thoughts were all hazy, though physically he had never felt so refreshed. All he could do was wonder why three Lion samurai were surrounding him? Though, just before he could even try to start piecing the puzzle back together, he heard Sakurasou's voice from behind him gasp.\n\n*\"Junichi-Sama!\"*\n\nNow all eyes were on him. Junichi would then inhale deeply and slowly begin to rise into a sitting position.\n\nAs his head broke connection with the Shugenja's touch the blue color in his eyes would gradually start to wash back out to their natural stone gray hue. Carefully Junichi would look around the room at everyone until he eventually managed to address them in a groggy tone. \n\n*\"What... Happened?\"*\n\nHe would wait for anyone to answer him, using this time to piece back the progression of events for himself."
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "*What happened indeed.* Akodo wondered himself. The moments were a whirlwind, and he wasn't sure he even wanted to try and piece the puzzle together. What was Himiko doing? They had had the high ground, but now they had assaulted an arguably rude host. While challenging him to a duel over the insult hadn't been off the table, somehow doing what they did was worse.\n\nSo the looming samurai, small next to Kitsu Miu, stood just off to the side now that the Scorpion Ambassador was awake. He would not bow until Himiko did. He would not speak until Himiko had spoken. Too much was in flux her, and as the Ambassador, it was her actions to take responsibility for. If he spoke first, it would undermind her further. So he stood, ready only to act if someone attempted violence.\n\n*What are we going to do now?*"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Miu had looked at Junichi and smiled. *\"There there. Calm down please, your body has been healed by the kami but I also gave you a bit more energy than necessary. Please refrain from tripping once more.\"* The grand Kitsu spoke as the smaller Kitsu now entered the scene. \n\nAnd lord she did not have any remorse at all. She did not smile but a more concerned look on her face. *\"I busted through your door because I did not expect it to be this thin.\"* No lie there. Himiko did knock with the intention to knock. \n\n*\"My temper got the hold of me here. You see I fell over whilst knocking on your door.\"* A lie, yet not visible as she somehow held the same tone and expression like she had done before. \n\nMiu had no awareness of what had actually happened. So the big Kitsu made sure she just kept an eye on Junichi. \n\n*\"As I fell forward I accidentally grasped your ankle to brace myself from falling. That is how you startled and tumbled to the ground.\"* Not a lie. The last part alas. She did grab his ankle and she had not cared for the consequences. But perhaps the context would matter. \n\n*\"My deepest apologies Scorpion-sama.\"* Himiko had bowed down just deep enough. Now they were on equal grounds again. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "Junichi would both listen and watch the young Kitsu closely as she spoke. He had a keen sense for truth, a skill that Junichi has honed and sharpened throughout both his life and career. As the Kitsu woman spoke Junichi's eyes would subtly shift to the door behind her. He'd take a moment to examine the holes through his door. There were two clean punctures through the shoji paper. If it was true that the woman fell then the door would have either fallen, or there would be breakage consistent with a downward dragging motion. Neither of which appeared to be the case. \n\nThough, if they wanted to cause Junichi any real harm, why would they have gone through the hassle of having him so efficiently healed by a Shugenja? Another piece of the puzzle that had him concerned... He would make sure to visit a shrine after this in hopes of figuring out *Everything* That may have been cast on him while he was unconscious. \n\nHe was still weary of what actually happened, all that Junichi could remember was the door closed and then it felt like his ankles were grabbed. Afterwards, he woke up in the Shugenja's lap. The most flustering part that Junichi still could not piece together was why this *Child* Had any business with-\n\n*'. . . Oh-'*\n\nThat's when it all started clicking into place. To confirm, Junichi briefly turned to look over at the large man, realizing that he had yet to speak a single word. Getting a better view of him Junichi would see the mons he wore, realizing the man to be an Akodo who looked to be older than himself... Junichi's gaze would trail back over to Himiko as she wrapped up her explanation, with his eyes slowly misting over in disbelief. \n\n*'This child is the Lion Ambassador... I just slammed the door in the face... Of the Lion Ambassador...'*\n\nJunichi's face would slowly drain of every sparse ounce of color it had, making his slate gray eyes look dark and sunken.\n\nExternally Junichi did not flinch so much as an inch, internally however his mind went completely *Blank.* He was in utter shock over his actions, mortified over the spectacularly disrespectful display he just put on for his guests. But-\n\n*He was not alone in this endeavor.*\n\nJunichi would close his eyes and let out a controlled deep breath. The mist would clear from Junichi's vision as his eyes opened again. First, he'd look toward Himiko, then at the Kitsu Shugenja, and lastly the Akodo. Junichi, having regained himself, finally decided on how he would approach the matter.\n\n\"You may think it strange, but I often find a sense of reassurance after a bout of misfortune. Because now we can only look forward to things getting better from here. Would you not agree, *Ambassador* Kitsu Himiko-San?\"\n\nJunichi would slightly grin and chuckle to himself as he got back up onto his feet, thinking it best to just try and move on from this kerfuffle as fast as possible. Reaching into his kimono Junichi would withdraw the gift he acquired in lieu of the Ambassador's visit. Slowly and gracefully he would present it to her.\n\n\"A gift in commemoration of your visit here today, Ambassador Kitsu-San. You see, my family has always had good ties with the Lion Clan, as we have neighbored here within Ryoko Owari Toshi for generations. I have high hopes that just like all of the other relationships which have flowered in the past, ours too will one day blossom just as spectacularly.\"\n\nWhat he held out was a magnificently engraved *Kazanshi*, with an ivory handle and pale green jade tines.\n\nThe handle was carved to resemble a field of flowers, making the jade almost look as if it were their stems. There was a small gold bead centered in what appeared to be large chrysanthemums on either end of the handle. Junichi would slide his thumb over one and apply just a small amount of pressure until he heard it *'click'*. Under inspection, one could now see that the flower was now separated out. With his other hand Junichi would gently pull on it, and sure enough out came the end tine of the *Kazanshi* Revealing a small hair-stick. Junichi would then *'click'* It back into place before hopefully handing it off to the Ambassador. After trading their formalities over the gift Junichi would continue.\n\n\"Now, -\"\n\nJunichi said addressing the group as a whole.\n\n\"-our meal awaits.\"\n\nHe'd gesture toward the nice and tidy table at the opposite end of the space before starting to make his way over. The servants that were still hanging about were much more relaxed now, and as Junichi walked toward the table he would silently smile and nod to them, letting them know he was okay. They would all bow deeply in unison, holding their bows for a while before breaking off to tend to their duties managing the estate. Junichi would move to take his spot at the head of the table, allowing everyone else to settle themselves wherever they pleased before their food and drink were brought to them."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had observed Junichi's every move as he offered a gift. Her gold and blue eye sparked as she observed the beauty of this item. A clear awe on her face as she went through the traditional three refusals. A genuine smile grew upon her face as she bowed down even deeper than before.\n\n *\"Thank you Soshi-sama. I do not have the words to express my gratitude. It is absolutely beautiful.\"* She took the gift with both hands as she suddenly revealed a small gift that had been put on the doorway for a moment. \n\nOne that Miu had handed to the Ambassador. Then the giant Kitsu left with a deep bow to everyone. She simply vanished. Admiring how silent such a big Shugenja could be. \n\nThen the Kitsu ambassador held out a small bonsai tree. Beautiful planted and taken care of. It was a Japanese maple bonsai. \n\n*\"Akodo-sama and I tried our best to keep it in it's most beautiful form for you.\"* \n\nIt clearly was well taken care off. One you could not buy at any store. One that had been brewing for many months. Years even. \n\nHimiko had went through the refusals once more before handing it over and joining the scorpion ambassador for a meal. It was clear that she did not fear poisoning as she had not awaited for somebody else to drink. That or death feared Himiko. Also a possibility as she had proven herself not to mess with. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo drifted as though in a daze through this... Bizarre exchange of courtly gamesmanship. He was *Truly* Impressed, not just at Junichi's ability to recover, but to say all of that with a straight face given what had happened. Truly, Ambassadors were made of different stuff than the old Akodo Lion. He entered the residence with Himiko, though he did not join the ambassadors at the table, but rather took what repast was offered to him as he served in the role of her yojimbo tonight off to the side where others of his role would be expected to be, so that they could maintain rediness and vigil, rather than be distracted by finery. His role was to defend Himiko's honor and life, but otherwise to listen and observe. So observe he did. He did smile a bit in pride when Himiko offered the bansai. It was not a skill he had, but he was proud of the gift as it had come out wonderfully."
},
{
"author": "lokishere",
"message": "A warm smile would grow on Junichi's face as the Lion Ambassador presented the well-manicured Japanese Maple bonsai. He would of course go through the customary, although rather tedious, tradition of refusing the gift three times before finally accepting it with both hands and a bow.\n\n\"It is very lovely, Kitsu-San. I can see a lot of care went into this, I will do my best to maintain the pristine visage you have curated.\"\n\nJunichi would then guide them over to the table, finally realizing what it was that was missing from it. He would place the bonsai in the middle of the table and take a few steps back to look at the new centerpiece. It was *Perfect,* Exactly what the table had been lacking. With a grin of satisfaction, Junichi would make his way to the head of the table to sit. He'd see that the Akodo wouldn't be joining them, Junichi couldn't say he was surprised as it was the nature of the job for a Yojimbo. \n\nIt was not long after they sat that the Kenin who had appeared earlier would begin serving the table. The dish presented to both the Ambassadors was *Tonkatsu ramen*; complete with chicken, bamboo shoots, a soft-boiled egg cut in two, and chives. Accompanying the dish were a series of different sauces to put into the chicken stock, as well as mint tea and a glass of white rice wine. One of the Kenin would break from the table holding a cup of tea on a small saucer with a slice of flatbread.\n\nShe would make her way over to the standing Akodo and bow to him before presenting the mint tea and bread, a small offering to the one who chose to abstain from the lunch inspired by Lion Clan delicacies.\n\nOnce everything was served Junichi would pour in a hefty amount of curry sauce into his ramen, stirring it in thoroughly before digging in. The meal, like all others prepared here, was of course delicious. After some food, tea, and a little bit of wine, Junichi would address the Ambassador.\n\n\"I'd like to thank you again Ambassador for taking time out of your busy day to join me for lunch. I hope everything is to your liking?\""
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo would bow slightly to the kenin who brought him his food and drink, eating the flatbread and enjoying the mint tea, though he would wait until the Ambassadors had started their food before eating. He would look longingly at the delicious looking tonkatsu ramen, and the delicious looking soft boiled eggs, but only once and then pointedly never again. His role here was one of solemn, sacred responsibility and he would not cast wanting looks at the table. Still, he would be going to find someone to make ramen for dinner tonight.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had started the feast the moment Junichi had done so. She clearly seemed to enjoy it as the stern side of her cleared up to the more expected childlike side. *\"Thank you for this meal.\"* Himiko had chanted. Perhaps a bit too loud but loud enough for everyone to at least hear it. Then the politics had started when the younger girl continued her feast, still keeping manners of course. \n\n*\"I would like to thank you for your invite Soshi-sama. Your home is one that is beyond beauty within this city.\"* Enough ass kissing, Himiko had thought to herself. She was still a bit angered about being underestimated once more. But shake it off and be an adult. \n\n*\"Tell me, as direct as a lion can be, what were the things you wished to discuss.\"* She glanced over to Katsuhiro and bowed down her head for a second to wish him a good meal as well. A polite smile grew upon her face as she had put a halt to eating. \n\n||"
}
] | 293 | 6,110 |
242.333333 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "taenarius",
"message": "Kiyo had been trying to branch out of her normal Izakaya habit. While there was unlikely to be a change in her attitude that fried foods were the best foods, she did wish to try a new place every now and then. Her choice for today was an upscale place: 'The Silver Tea Pot'. She hoped they were not actually going to serve the tea in a silver pot. For her sake.\n\nThe clientele of this teahouse was exclusively samurai, and it seemed to be used for quite a few meeting seeing the layout of the building offering a set of backrooms which had a guard in front of them offering 'sword polishing services'. Perhaps there was a side to this place that was a little less than stellar. Suppose that maybe explains the wealth this place exudes, especially considering that this seemed an ordinary teahouse in most other manners. Kiyo didn't really think too hard about that. She was here to eat, not investigate a potential underworld connection. Quite simply, this place must be on the level because she does not care to find out otherwise.\n\nShe enters and is brought to a table, scoffing at the fact that tea is in fact served in silver tea pots. \"How garish.\" She mutters to no one in particular, and low enough so no one would hear it anyway over the natural level of sound in this relatively busy room. She takes a seat at the table, and is informed that due to capacity of the place she should expect company if no other seats were available. She knew those words well. They meant *Expect company*. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "alt.cn",
"message": "Musage, being unacquainted with this part of the city, wanders into the teahouse to satiate his tea addiction... Unfortunately for him, this locale was far noisier than some of the others he had sat down in; this would make for an awful place to try and write, but focus is the name of the duelist's game.\n\nBeing told that they were at capacity, Musage is pointed towards the slightly barren table with the lady at the end of it. He shuffles on over, stepping around or over people who looked clearly inebriated... In a tea house. Wonderful. Eventually, he sat down next to the individual, taking out an uncovered manual, the pages tightly wound by leather straps.\n\n\"Silvered pots... A fine way to taste silver, though I'd rather chew the metal if I was looking for that flavor.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "taenarius",
"message": "She would then hesitantly gesture towards the empty space at the table, \"Please, join me.\" She would then continue speaking regardless of whether the Crane sat or not. \"Are you a regular at this establishment? I'm not so sure I'm fond of the gimmick.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "alt.cn",
"message": "*He bows to her, already having sat down.*\n\n\"Kakita Musage, duelist and mentor, potential candidate as Kenshinzen. 'Tis a pleasure to meet you, Yogo-sama.\"\n\n*Inquisitively, Musage opens the top of the pot and smells the residual silver being burned up.*\n\n\"Eugh... I'm not a regular; I've just recently been allowed to shuffle myself towards this city... As for our tea, I think you'll be disappointed to hear that the silver is definitely seeping into it. Do you mind if I spruce this up?\"\n\n*He takes out a stick of cinnamon, its color robustly reddish-brown and fresh enough to drop powder.*\n\n\"This could save it, unless you have your favored infusions.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "taenarius",
"message": "Kiyo shakes her head. \"I'm not so sure I really can drink this tea, although no one else seems to mind the mouthful of poison that should be this tea brewed by this pot.\" She would take the pot with her gloved hands and investigate the inside. \"The inside does not appear to be silver. It's safe to drink.\" She really didn't understand this strange decision for a tea pot. They surely wouldn't be attracting learned samurai with this gimmick, although medicine was not the most common of disciplines. Perhaps the focus ont the beauty of the pot was meant to be a topic of discussion? It certainly did have ornate designs, but Kiyo had no interest in them, caring little for the form of an object meant to function.\n\nKiyo, returning the pot to near the Crane after her examination, would show curiosity towards the cinnamon. She wasn't familiar with it beyond the name and knowing that it was one of the rarities that the Unicorn and Mantis tended to trade. \"Cinnamon?\" She questions of the stick, \"I suppose if you must.\" She supposed that it would be unlikely to make the tea worse, but she never particularly cared much for the drink herself. \n\n\"So, you're new in town, Kakita-san.\" Kiyo remarks. \"What brings a Crane such as you to the Shosuro's fine city?\" Kiyo would never acknowledge that technically the city was held by the imperials, as with most occupations of Ryoko Owari, this one would not last. It would inevitably return to its rightful owners in time.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "alt.cn",
"message": "\"Oh, well... I'm a big fan of espionage, opium, and getting a few knives in my back.\"\n\n*He adds the cinnamon to the mix, the powder instantly dissolving as the tea becomes more browned by this new addition. He then pulls out his manual, adding more text to it as he normally does.*\n\n\"In actuality, I am a mentor. I go where the art of iaijutsu, and kenjutsu, are needed... Additionally, it's more of a prerequisite to becoming a Kenshinzen. Due to my practically instrumental marriage, rather than one born of actual love, I only need to tend to whatever I can convince my lord to allow me to tend. I guess the one that satisfies the Kakita stereotype is that I also come on behalf of the accused; a champion, of sorts, when judgement leads to formal confrontation.\n\nI assume your business is well within the hands of Ryoko Owari, Yogo-sama?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "taenarius",
"message": "A swordsman, seemingly of the wandering variety. Or at least one with an exceptionally permissive lord. To be able to just go where one pleases is rare, especially when you have to cross half of Rokugan to do so. Must be nice to be so irresponsible. \"So, you're not here to do anything?\" Kiyo asks, with some incredulity present in her voice. Unbelievable. This Crane was not being fully honest with her. The Scorpion's reputation does lend people to hide some things, but surely there would at least be a good cover story to go with it. There's no way that this man is telling the truth. But the lack of reasonable duty nags at her.\n\nKiyo responds to the prying into her duty with a grim response. \"My business is quite well, of course. It never goes out of style, there are always some trying to pry into things beyond their ken.\" That was all she would say on what she did. The message is clear, don't try to pry into the clan of secrets' deep secrets.\n\nShe lets the message hang."
},
{
"author": "alt.cn",
"message": "\"I hear a bit of venom in your question... I have served my lord quite well, and he has always been an advocate for my attempts to serve the law well and serve the arts well. Had he not trusted me, I doubt I would be a Crane even a decade ago.\"\n\n*He pulls out a fan, wafting it at his paper to let the especially thick and viscous ink dry out more. He then kills the heat a bit, letting the tea cool off so as to not boil too much water.*\n\n\"As for your duty... It must be important to be so obfuscated, Yogo-sama. How delicate the affairs, so *Delicate* That none should see or hear it. I respect the loyalty.\"\n\n*A little offended by the presumptuousness, Musage returns the favor in a more passive-aggressive way; though he is no sadane expert, he does recognize that a compliment must be taken at its face, lest the other lose their composure over seemingly nothing.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "taenarius",
"message": "She must have struck a nerve. She's not sure why or how, but something made the Crane defensive. Perhaps her confusion could have been interpreted as malice? Strange. She does wonder what that last comment meant, did this man consider walking the path of waves? Or did he consider going for a diplomatic marriage? She had many questions. She didn't feel like asking any of them though.\n\nKiyo finds the method of preparation for tea excruciatingly involved. A temperature change? Fanning it? For tea? Absolutely not worth it. How is this drink everyone's favorite? It's not worth it, unless this tea somehow shatters Kiyo's worldview. It's doubtful she'd still prefer it over sake or umeshu, even if it were the best tea she ever had, she just prefers those so much more. She's not even certain she'd prefer it over genmaicha, she thinks the roasted rice really adds to the tea, and regular tea missing it just feels incomplete. She's hopeful still that the flavor is good, and she's complaining about effort that she's not even making.\n\n\"Do you not know of what the Yogo traditionally do, Kakita-san?\" Kiyo asks, completely missing the sadane subtext that turned the question into a subtle insult. \"It's often deals with subjects not suitable for polite conversation. We deal in cursed artifacts, and making sure that they stay hidden.\" She shakes her head. \"Unfortunately, some people, as mentioned earlier, can't help themselves on their quest for power and prestige. It's our job to clean up the mess.\" She brings her voice low again, \"Trust me Kakita-san, you don't want to know.\" Her voice returns to normal, \"And I'm not allowed to tell you anyway.\" The last line is accompanied by the closest thing to a smirk while having no expression whatsoever.\n\nIt seems the Crane didn't seem to care for the discussion, and left somewhat suddenly and wordlessly. This was by all counts okay with her, she didn't want company, but now she was left with a teapot full of tea that she was unfamiliar with. Was it done steeping? Unknown. Tea preparation was for the servants, and Kiyo definitely wasn't one of those, nor did she care enough about the beverage to learn proper preparation. She would order a new pot, simply to get someone else to make her the tea... And bring her some cakes, while they're at it."
}
] | 204 | 2,181 |
278.484848 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "It was unbecoming for a man of status to busy himself with the doldrums of the day.\n\nThat was why the mighty samurai who governed the city had legions upon legions of their lessers tending to their beck and call. Even the notoriously austere Utaku family kept servants on hand for such tasks. After all, the time of a samurai was valuable. Every moment spent cooking their own meals or running their own errands were moments not spent training, meditating, or attending to their duties. Masanori himself retained a personal attendant for most such matters. \n\nYet some things were personal enough to be tended in person. It certainly helped that the Utaku's business did not take him far from the Ide residence, where the majority of his time was spent. The seamstress who had been recommended to him by Moshi Fujiko had settled herself into a charming little shop amidst the manses of the Noble Quarter, albeit in the half that was less than sympathetic to Unicorn and their samurai.\n\nThat did not seem to make her any less able to fill his order. The Bayushi were not a family to be trusted with most all matters, but at least in the field of aesthetics and design, they could be safely considered an authority. To ask for raiments befitting a noble lady's courtly attire was one thing, to request such a wardrobe without the lady in question present to be modeled upon was another, and to request it in such haste? It was a wonder Bayushi Manami had managed to accommodate him at all. \n\nBut the proof of her dedication lay within his hands. Carefully packed away in a freshly fabricated chest, the dressings of a proper lady rested within Masanori's grip. How well the intended would receive the gift remained to be seen. If nothing else, he imagined the reaction would be a memorable one, positive or negative. And so with those amusing thoughts playing through his mind, the lieutenant made his way back through the crowded evening streets toward the Ide residence. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko would have liked to think that she was the sort of woman who didn't care for the finer things in life, like expensive silk kimono or fine sake and food. Ideally, a samurai—or a bushi, at least—led a spartan lifestyle, having no room for anything that would make them 'soft' and unable to fulfill their duties to their daimyo.\n\nAnd yet, ronin and *Shugyosha* Lived so close to poverty that it was hard for the Kakita duelist *Not* To appreciate those finer things. When Kiyoko had returned to the Crane clan's service after six years on a warrior-pilgrimage and been assigned to her clan's embassy in Ryoko Owari Toshi, her superiors had given her a new kimono and haori in clan colors, and she had been secretly delighted to have new clothes that had not been worn threadbare, patched up crudely, and worn threadbare again.\n\nThe Crane samurai-ko has thus begun to make her way to Flowing Designs, a nearby Scorpion-run clothing shop she had been informed of, run by a somewhat-notorious samurai-ko whose name Kiyoko had learned was Bayushi Minami. She rather wanted to expand her wardrobe to clothing that didn't bathe her in shades of blue. An attractive woman of pale porcelain complexion accentuated by a distinctive beauty mark to the right of her chin, ice-blue eyes, and platinum-white hair worn in a layered chin-length bob, Kiyoko had begun to wonder if her predominantly-blue wardrobe made her look washed-out (or a ghost), so she had decided to see what other colors might complement her hair and skin tones—or at least add a dash of color to her current ensembles. Or better yet, add a few extra outfits. Maybe even a formal kimono or two—who knew when she would be ordered to attend a formal event and suddenly find herself without a thing to wear?\n\nKiyoko navigated through the crowded evening streets toward the shop, passing by many servants in the colors of a Great Clan and a few occasional samurai bearing a wakizashi or daisho. One particular man in the crowds caught her eye, a large bushi carrying a package of a sort one would usually expect a servant to bear. He had the foreign appearance of a Unicorn, and wore the clothes to match. \n\nThe Crane paused, a fair distance away still but directly in his path, and furrowed her brows curiously.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "It was a wonder how swiftly one changed in response to circumstance. The principle of never-ending change, of adapting to the obstacles before oneself, had long been drilled into Masanori since he was a boy learning at the knee of his sensei. Yet he had found himself struggling with the notion. Stalwart, unmoving, unflappable in the face of that which would uproot him. He had always been the type to meet a challenge head-on rather than gracefully change steps and dance around it as the Shinjo who led his clan might have. \n\nAnd yet, Ryoko Owari Toshi changed him all the same.\n\nSituational awareness was not something any true bushi lacked. Knowing the environment around you in the heat of a pitched battle was the difference between regrouping with your men and dying foolishly, surrounded and alone. But surrounded by Scorpion on all sides, bearing the mon of a clan who meant to drag the city from their wretched fingers, and occupying a position of significant authority within that clan made him an easy target for those boldest of the Underhand. Even during his daily business, he had become more perceptive. More wary of the faces around him and how they reacted to his presence. \n\nIt stood to reason, therefore, that being stared at by anyone—much less a samurai—was cause for a small amount of concern. The woman in question looked every inch a Crane, and he had yet to devolve into such paranoia as to assume some kind of long-reaching Scorpion plot was at play in her interest. Speculating about such was unnecessary. He could cut to the heart of the matter easily enough.\n\n\"Is something the matter, Crane-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The strangeness of a samurai doing menial tasks, without a servant on-hand, was not lost on Kiyoko. But then, the Unicorn clan's ways were stranger than any other Clan, Great or Minor. \n\nThe Crane samurai-ko shook her head. \"No, nothing, Unicorn-san.\"\n\nShe looked past him down the street, then to the package in his keeping. Might he have been coming from Flowing Designs himself? There were certainly other tailors and seamstresses in the city, and probably a few even on this street. But then, Flowing Designs seemed to be the most popular and trendy such shop, so it *Was* Possible...\n\n\"Actually, Unicorn-san, perhaps you can tell me. Is Flowing Designs near here?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The Utaku found his brow quirking at the inquiry. Had she not been watching him for all that long? Surely it would have been obvious to one with such an inquisitive eye to tell that he had only left the establishment moments prior. Given it was a Crane he found himself speaking with, however, it occurred to Masanori that perhaps she *Had* In fact seen him leave the building and simply wished to probe him for information about his experience there.\n\n\"It is.\"\n\nHis answer was curt enough, and he turned such that he could direct his gaze toward the building, assuming that the Crane would follow his line-of-sight and discover the building for herself. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The Crane onna-musha did indeed follow his gaze. \"Ah.\"\n\nKiyoko glanced at the package in Masanori's hands again. Perhaps he had come from the tailor shop himself. And he was a Unicorn, so perhaps she should introduce herself. Their clans *Were* Allies, after all. She closed the distance between them by a couple of steps. \"I am Kakita Kiyoko, a recent arrival in the city. Is Flowing Designs as good as they say?\"\n\nShe paused a moment before continuing. \"Assuming that Unicorn-san has had prior experience with the shop, of course. I do not know much about it, other than that the shop is apparently a good place to order a lady's court kimono.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "It was difficult not to feel a level of terseness in the brief interaction shared with one Kakita Kiyoko. Perhaps much of that was his own fault—Masanori had been told his tendency toward the stoic and unreadable made him a standoffish sort, and he had been at least a little suspicious of the Crane since laying eyes on her. When the young woman stepped toward him, he offered her a short bow of greeting, brief only so that he did not collide with the poor woman by way of their statures.\n\n\"Utaku Masanori. I have been here for some time,\" The Utaku paused, allowing his eyes to flicker briefly back towards the tailor in question, \"But not so long as to be a frequent customer.\"\n\nThe work that Bayushi Manami had done met his expectations. The garment so thoughtfully sewn together for his beloved was every bit as fine as the garments his sisters wore. Given the status inherent to the daughters of mighty Utaku Reika, such a thing was high praise indeed. Yet as he considered the Kakita's inquiry, he could not help but think back to the words of Moshi Fujiko... And perhaps more damningly, how easily another Kakita he had known fell to the charms of a Bayushi temptress. \n\n\"That said, I am satisfied with the quality of the garment I commissioned recently. It will make for a handsome gift.\"\n\nThere was a confidence in that assertion, the parcel held taut against his side as he spoke of it, but it was somewhere undermined by the comment to follow.\n\n\"... However, I am led to believe that the owner can be somewhat hands-on with female customers, specifically. Whether her conduct breaches into impropriety, I cannot say. Though it may pain my mother, I am no woman.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The Kakita duelist returned a perfunctory bow of her own, equal in depth to his. Rare was the man or woman whom she assumed to be *Above* Her in the social ladder of Rokugan simply on appearances ||Proud disadvantage||. \"A pleasure to meet you then, Utaku-san.\"\n\nKiyoko furrowed her brows at the Utaku warrior's words. That sounded like a warning. But what sort of 'hands-on' behavior between women could be regarded as 'breaches into impropriety'? Maybe she was better off not knowing. On the other hand—her curiosity was piqued. \"The... Owner. I will keep Utaku-san's words in mind. Is that why you are taking this garment to your lady\"—or was it his sister? A female relative or acqaintance of some sort, anyway—\"Instead of her retrieving it herself?\"\n\nBelatedly, Kiyoko realized the implications of Masanori's comment about paining his mother. What samurai mother would prefer daughters to sons, except for the Matsu and the—oh. The Utaku. She decided it was in the interest of propriety not to comment on it further.\n\n\"Well, no doubt the one who receives Utaku-san's gift will be delighted.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "\"That is the hope, yes.\"\n\nThe exchanges of small pleasantries and idle chatter were not a particular strength of Masanori's. Especially when he had little common ground with the subject of those pleasantries. His interactions with the Kakita family had been historically limited—and frankly unpleasant—enough that he struggled to think of just what common ground he shared with them. Though if the woman in question sought out Flowing Designs, he supposed they had at least one thing to speak on.\n\n\"Shall I assume you wish to commission a garment?\" An innocuous enough question, though he could not help but wonder further, \"One would assume the Crane had their own tailors in the city to see to such matters.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko was not a particularly talkative woman, either, which may have stunted the potential for conversation between the two. The Crane samurai-ko, for her part, was historically-limited in her interactions with *People in general*, though she had spent time enough in Unicorn lands during her travels to appreciate them. Even more so when they were bushi, as this one appeared to be.\n\nKiyoko wondered silently how good of a *Kenshi* He was, and rather hoped that she would have the opportunity to find out. Still, most people tended to frown upon being bluntly challenged to a sparring match, so she would restrain herself.\n\nThe Kakita duelist nodded once. \n\n\"One could say the same of the Unicorn, Utaku-san. But this one's reputation precedes her.\" She paused a beat, recalling the...*Warning* About the owner's conduct that Masanori had delivered a moment ago. \"In more ways than one, it would seem.\"\n\nCuriosity got the better of her, and she indicated his package with a nod of her head. \"So, who is it for?\"\n\nShe had hoped to get him to let that slip by referring to the garment's intended recipient as 'your lady,' but it would seem that it would take a more direct questioning."
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Masanori waved his hand gently as if to dismiss the notion of Unicorn fashion and its place in Ryoko Owari Toshi. He was no man of the court, but even he knew the contentious relationship that existed between his clan's ancestral styles and those of the more conventional clans of the Empire, the Scorpion and Crane included. \n\n\"There is no shortage of Unicorn artisans in this city. However, many of the city's inhabitants find the New Section's aesthetics objectionable. It is better to play to the preferences of others on occasion.\"\n\nDaunting as it was, explaining the divide between the city's inhabitants was a much more appealing matter than having to explain just whom the garment he had commissioned was intended. He could not well simply admit the truth of the matter—though their clans were allies, the Crane had made a thousand-year reputation of turning another's weakness into their own strengths in matters of politics. The last thing he needed was for it to reach the Crane's ambassador that the son of a mighty family daimyo had entangled himself with a ronin.\n\n\"It is for... A valued colleague. I wished to express my gratitude for her hard work in assisting me bring order to the city's more lawless sections. It was brought to my attention that she did not have an outfit befitting a diplomatic setting. Ordinarily, it would be a lord's responsibility to fulfill such a need for their retainer, but this particular colleague wanders the waves.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "\"I... See,\" Kiyoko said, nonplussed. It would seem that the Utaku man was not willing to speak too openly of the ronin for whom this gift was intended. On the other hand, hadn't Chiyoko made a verbal slip and referred to a Unicorn samurai by first name? Wait, wasn't that a \"Masanori\" Also?\n\nA tiny light bulb went off above Kiyoko's head (figuratively speaking), but she decided she wouldn't press any further on the issue.\n\n\"I can appreciate the desire to assist a ronin who has done a good turn for you. I spent a few years on a *Musha shugyo*, and such kindnesses were rare.\" \n\nIt was common for *Shugyosha* To hide any clan ties they may have had (though naturally platinum-white hair usually complicated that for Kiyoko), so to the world around her, she had been just another ronin herself.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Though it did not seem an overly pressing matter, Masanori could not help but notice the recognition that briefly flashed across the Kakita's features. The Crane did not often strike him as the sort of clan to rub elbows with those who wandered the ways. And yet all the same, the particular wave-woman who had captured his heart seemed to have no end of trouble with that particular family. Perhaps it was the Mirumoto blood coursing through her veins. Perhaps the Mirumoto blood had led her to cross blades with Kiyoko before. A trifling thought, but one worth inquiring into later. If she had not been mentioned by name, he could be confident at the very least that Chiyoko's business with Kiyoko was not as grating as it had been with Kakita Arai or Doji Daiki.\n\n\"An unfortunate truth. Some samurai forget themselves, forget the duties inherent to their station, in acclimating to their status. They forget that even one's enemies are worthy of courtesy and compassion.\"\n\nIt was hard to say whether most samurai saw ronin as inherent enemies or simply nuisances to be attended. Before arriving in the city, he had scarcely interacted with those who lived outside the intricate web of obligation and duty that was life as a samurai. Given the things he had done with one such ronin, however... It was easy to say that he was amenable to them.\n\n\"Perhaps my perspective as a Unicorn skews my perception, however. There is a belief among our kin that one should always offer respect and bow to a masterless horse—for one never knows if it is a Ki-rin testing their temperament. It is easy enough to see how that superstition might tint interactions with a pilgrim on their journey.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko had spent time in Calm Heart Village during her warrior-pilgrimage, but she could not recall any sayings about masterless horses and Ki-rin. That just went to show that even for a visiting student at a foreign dojo, one could not expect other than to be held at arm's length. It probably did not help that she was a naturally asocial creature who only really cared about how one communicated on the tatami mats, either.\n\nThe Crane samurai-ko nodded, and stepped to one side as if about to continue past Masanori. \n\n\"Is Utaku-san in a haste to deliver his gift? If not, perhaps you would care to join me for tea after I meet with the owner of this 'Flowing Designs'?\"\n\nTruth be told, she might not have minded the security of additional company *While* Meeting with said owner, given what Masanori had told her about her... Sapphic proclivities. But she would not ask for *That*.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "It seemed for a moment that the Kakita was prepared to leave for the business ahead of her. Instead, rather than proceeding by herself, she posed a question and an offer: join her for the afternoon once she had successfully navigated the trials at Flowing Designs. Whether it was done out of a genuine desire to establish some kind of working relationship, or simply for the security his presence might further provide, he could not say. Yet all the same, it was not an unwelcome suggestion. The Crane were allied to the Unicorn, and despite that, Masanori had made the acquaintance of precious few of those who found themselves in the city. If the alliance were to prevail in its mission to see the city fall into Unicorn hands, then getting more familiar with those who would aid in the fight was an intelligent enough choice.\n\n\"I am in no rush. Your suggestion is agreeable.\"\n\nThe lieutenant turned on his heel such that he could face the establishment left only a short while prior. How well the Bayushi within would receive him again so soon, he could not say. Perhaps with some level of gratitude: he *Had* Directed a new customer to her establishment.\n\n\"After you, Kakita-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Only then did Kiyoko notice that there was vibrant signage that indicated where Flowing Designs was, right on the front of the building. Had she not paused to ask the Utaku samurai, she could not have failed to notice it if she had simply continued walking.\n\nOh well.\n\nThe Crane bushi made her way through the surrounding foot traffic to the small shop's entrance and brushed aside the half-curtain. Almost immediately, a young woman in a pleasingly-colorful kimono greeted Kiyoko, and the platinum-haired bushi replied with a silent nod, her ice-blue eyes sweeping the small shop's interior.\n\nMultiple kimono hung on display stands, emphasizing the artistic talents of the seamstress far more than their suitability to be worn to a fashionable court function. \"I am Kakita Kiyoko. I am looking for a kimono suitable for court,\" She said to the attendant. \"I assume your mistress would need my measurements?\" ||84-56-88, just to be cheeky||\n\nShe glanced over her shoulder at Masanori, assuming he followed her inside. \"I do hope this will not take too long,\" She said to him.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The attendant, to her credit, maintained proper decorum. A necessity for any shop in the Noble Quarter claiming style and class, but commendable in its way in the face of a towering Unicorn and a Crane samurai-ko.\n\n\"Of course, Kakita-sama. Please wait for a moment, and I shall fetch my mistress.\"\n\nWith familiar, practiced steps, she ducked around one of the display kimonos into a back room in the small shop... And before long, out came out the proprietress.\n\nShe seemed like a typical Bayushi woman: dark hair, fair skin that almost seemed pale, with a silken mask framing one eye, clad in a kimono of ebon black and crimson with a pattern that suggested either flower petals or a spray of blood. And in a fashion Masanori would know to be wearyingly normal for her, it was fitted closer to her form, teasing out the *Hint* Of a shapely figure without giving it away, just as the collar of her garment flared open the tiniest bit more.\n\nHer idea of conservative.\n\nWith her servant introducing her but briefly, Bayushi Manami bowed gracefully with a dancer's flow to the samurai before her... Though not before her gaze took in Kiyoko's form once. A tailor's instincts?\n\n\"Welcome to my humble shop, Kakita-san. I am Bayushi Manami,\" She said, polite yet vivacious. \"I do hope you see something you like. How may I serve you today?\"\n\nThen, a brief break in her words. She looked to the Unicorn *Chui* In turn and bowed again. Still flowing, still sanguine, but with a clearer sense of... Distance.\n\n\"And welcome back, Utaku-sama! Do you require my services again?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Returning to Flowing Delights was not something Masanori particularly cared to do, and yet in the name of furthering the alliance, it was perhaps a worthy use of his time. Still, for a man who prided himself in the comforts of steel and leather over silks, a tailor's shop felt foreign enough to him. All the more so when the proprietress made herself apparent from the back of the shop at the beckoning of one Kakita Kiyoko. As an Utaku, he often prided himself in casting aside the gossipy prattle of court in favor of things he could verify with his own eyes. Yet all the same... He could not shake the feeling his presence was not half so welcome in the establishment as his female contemporary, now that he could see firsthand the woman's demeanor.\n\n\"I do not, Bayushi-san. I am merely showing Kakita-san the way and waiting for her business to conclude, such that we may continue with our plans.\"\n\nIt was not such a damning thing to say, but perhaps it would offer some sort of shield to the Crane maiden if the Scorpion proved to live up to her reputation. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko gave a respectful bow to Manami as she entered. \"A pleasure, Bayushi-san. I am Kakita Kiyoko,\" She replied. \"I understand that Bayushi-san is...*Well-regarded* In this city, and I am looking to have a couple of formal kimono made for me. Something I could wear to court.\" \n\nWell, her sense of fashion was, anyway. A Scorpion was still a Scorpion.\n\nThe Crane glanced at Masanori, curious about his choice of words and the implications they raised. She supposed he was trying to be helpful.\n\nTurning back to Manami, she said, \"I suppose that measurements are necessary?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Nodded while hiding her smile behind a sleeve.\n\n\"Of course, Utaku-sama. How very Compassionate of you to guide her.\"\n\nKnew not to test the patience of her clients, especially if they were ill-disposed towards the Scorpion.\n\n\"Indeed, Kakita-san, indeed. Though first, allow me a quick look first.\" Manami tittered as she paced in the shop and circled around Kiyoko, angling one arm such that her sleeve slid down slowly... Revealing a well-painted fan which she opened.\n\nManami, of course, knew who she was. She was a woman with (what she considered) healthy appetites, and a healthy appreciation for beauty. But she also knew that you covered the pot with decorum so as to avoid turning the customers away from the honey. And it helped that her fan was there to conceal her expressions.\n\nAfter a few thoughtful \"Hmm\"S and \"Haaah\"S, taking in this woman who was both ice and warrior, she finally closed her fan with a resounding snap. Wordlessly, she beckoned two assistants over and directed him with a glance and a pointing finger. Like stage helpers in a play, they scurried about to quickly gather the appropriate fabrics. Meanwhile, the mousier woman from earlier arrived meekly.\n\n\"Very well, then,\" She purred, \"If you will follow my assistant into the fitting room, I will be with you to oversee the measurements. And, of course, to decide what this kimono should say... No, *Sing*. Let it never be said that I allowed a Crane's plumage to be anything less than *Resplendent*.\"\n\nTurned to Masanori while the serving girl directed Kiyoko.\n\n\"You are welcome to wait, Utaku-sama, and do feel free to ask for my expertise.\"\n\nA sincere offer, with that similar tone of sweetness. But the difference between her words to him and to Kiyoko was certainly stark.\n\nEventually, she would enter the fitting room, where her servant was already beginning her measurements, occasionally asking for Kiyoko's assistance.\n\n\"Now, then, Kakita-san. Your kimonos. Formal, yes, and if I know the Crane,\" Manami commented with a dancing tone, \"You likely want it tasteful. Traditional. Blues upon whites, like a cloudy sky. But is there perhaps anything *More* You might desire from it?\"\n\nWithin the booth, its drapes drawn, her hands began to mimic the graceful turns of a traditional dance, turning even as her fingers twined and waved.\n\n\"Something to present the very image of grace and beauty, like a *Nadeshiko*?\"\n\nShe halted, back turned to the Kakita, her motion shifting one of her kimono's shoulders out of place for but a moment, sliding it back in place.\n\n\"Or perhaps to catch the eye, claim territory in the mind?\"\n\nFinally, she turned again, her smile small but animated, and her posture straight and resolute.\n\n\"Ah, but perhaps a warrior's cut would better serve, to hint at the *Power* Of your form.\"\n\nThen, like a theatre player, her posture reverted to its normal ladylike mien.\n\n\"Though of course, your preference comes first. The customer is always right in matters of taste, after all.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The Crane watched the Bayushi woman, wordless and unmoving, following the samurai-ko out of the corner of her eye when she slipped behind Kiyoko. Manami certainly exuded a certain air—something like a *Femme fatale*, in Kiyoko's mind. Still, the Kakita duelist was not going to let the woman unnerve her.\n\nThe mousy woman returned, and Kiyoko looked again to Manami as she spoke. A kimono should... Sing? The metaphor puzzled Kiyoko, and she turned the phrase over in her mind for a few moments before dismissing it with a mental shrug. \"Alright,\" She replied, and followed the assistant into the fitting room.\n\nKiyoko waited patiently for Manami to join them, and pondered anew at the options presented. A nadeshiko, a bushi, or...\n\nFor as little as Kiyoko cared for court intrigue—or appearances at court in general—it really seemed that those were the only two options that made sense. And as a daughter of the Crane, the choice already seemed made for her in the form of the nadeshiko, the classic beauty. Such usually kept their hair much longer than she did, but perhaps she could make do with a wig or extensions or something.\n\n\"A *Nadeshiko* Seems the most appropriate to me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "\"Mmm, a most artful choice indeed, Kakita-san. Very well, we shall deliver~\" The Scorpion seamstress purred.\n\nWhat followed was a series of measurements and fabric displays, helpers shuffling in and out as if they were ranks of *Ashigaru* On rotation. Kiyoko was shown, in quick order, options for colours. Style. Obis. All of them in the conventional, courtly style to gracefully wrap the wearers form in flowing fabric. With each selection she made, Manami further narrowed down the selections, until finally, she went with a conventionally sky-blue kimono with tasteful folds of white, evocative of a snowy mountain. However, while its sleeves were elegant, they were conventional enough that they wouldn't obstruct her sword draw in any way.\n\nOf course, as adept as she was, Manami *Was* Still... Manami. She double checked measurements by doing them personally, 'helped' Kiyoko to don the garments (so as not to crease or wrinkle the fabric, of course), and initially had it worn in a style which left a bit more neck and collarbone in view than was traditional. No touching beyond the necessary, of course, but she always leaned in *Close* If she could help it. Small talk was attempted to set her at ease, though she also did ask about the Kakita's 'training regimen'.\n\nBut as the last fitting was accomplished, the kimono upon her in an orthodox fashion, the Scorpion stepped back with an appreciative smile behind her hand fan.\n\n\"Ahhh. Very much a *Nadeshiko*. The beauty of winter, accentuated. Though I am sure you are *Quite* Warm, Kakita-san.\"\n\nWith that casual 'comment', Manami awaited Kiyoko's final comments, prepared to modify the outfit or offer an alternative before leading her out into the store again.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko endured Manami's 'ministrations' stoically, though she felt the heat of an awkward blush rising to her cheeks on the handful of occasions when the Scorpion woman invaded her personal space. It was a well-hidden relief when she finally stepped back.\n\nThe Crane samurai-ko actually rather appreciated the extra ventilation that the initial style Manami arranged her kimono in. It was perhaps a bit too risqué though.\n\nStill, she liked the kimono itself. \n\n*Though I am sure you are quite warm, Kakita-san.*\n\nKiyoko couldn't help but think there was a bit of innuendo to that remark, a double entendre. She also couldn't but react to it, blushing even as she tried to deflect Manami's words in a safer direction. \"A hazard of court dress, I assume,\" She said evenly. \"Are there perhaps accommodations for summer wear? Or is that a separate outfit?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The Scorpion seamstress fanned herself with a coquettish giggle. She wasn't so crass as to jump into Kiyoko's kimono immediately, but she *Did* So love the dance, even if it turned out to be just the once.\n\n\"Indeed, indeed! Kimonos are ideal for court and the colder seasons, of course. And certainly, we are more than able to perform alterations.\"\n\nSlow, deliberate steps led her to pace around Kiyoko, studying the kimono and its wearer. This time, at least, she relied on her eyes alone, though they were alight with her vixen's fire. Her words, though, were directed with professional experience, even as they were delivered in a charming lilt.\n\n\"However, if you would like to keep your kimono's condition pristine, I would recommend a yukata. Easier to move around in, with more room for you to breathe. Good for summer, or for when you're just getting out of the bath.\"\n\nShe giggled lowly, fanning herself at the thought and recalling the last time she'd been to the baths with another. When the moment passed, there was humour in her voice.\n\n\"And I assure you, my dear Kakita-san, this is honest counsel, and not simply your humble seamstress encouraging you to get another outfit.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko again followed Manami's pacing around her with her eyes. Now, though, it was accompanied by an inward frown. Did this Bayushi woman enjoy teasing her so? It was not the first time she'd felt like a fly caught in a Scorpion samurai-ko's web, though it certainly did not carry the same sense of tension that the other occasion did.\n\n\"Mmn. Do you have yukata in the same colors as this kimono? I may as well make them match,\" She said, keeping her tone dispassionate and even. No sense letting Manami know what she thought of the coquettish act beyond the unavoidable.\n\nThe Kakita duelist had only arrived in Ryoko Owari with the clothes on her back, metaphorically speaking, but she had managed to acquire another outfit since then. A few more definitely would not hurt, especially if she would be stationed in the City of Lies for very long, as seemed likely.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "\"Hm, hm! I believe I do,\" She said while directing a server with a few practiced signs. Turning back to the Kakita, the fan waved like grass in the wind as Manami continued. \"Though if you would like to arrange for different colours, I would be more than glad to discuss it at length.\"\n\nShe slid to Manami's left side, inspecting not merely the form, but the colours, like an artist with a blank canvas or a carver with a block of wood.\n\n\"Of course, let it never be said I left a customer half-informed. There are, of course, colours to contrast. Complement. Accentuate. Or simply to send a message.\"\n\nAs the store's owner spoke, more shuffling of fabric and steps of sandals could be heard at one side of the shop.\n\n\"A dark black or violet, for instance, for something strong, regal. Or teal and pink for a softer touch, to soothe. Ahh, and something bold like crimson and gold will help your snow-white hair to stand out. Any of these can be tied together with an *Obi* With an appropriate shade of blue.\"\n\nManami snapped her fan, and as if on cue, her assistants stepped forward. Her aide held up the yukata in Crane colours, but her other helpers each held up rolls of fabric in the colour combinations listed by Manami.\n\n\"Your Clan colours, of course, are beautiful,\" She said half-dismissively, \"But if you desire some *Variety*, I am of course honoured to provide.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko blinked at the Bayushi woman. If she wanted to send a message, she would do so with a katana—not what clothes she wore. What message *Could* One send with what clothes one did (or did not) wear, anyway? She almost asked the question aloud, though the expression on her face probably gave away her thoughts regardless. In her wonderings, she almost did not catch that Manami had answered the unasked question—at least partially.\n\n\"I am partial to black,\" She said. \"And perhaps an obi that is blue on one side, and red on the other?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Manami snickered softly like a cat that caught a sparrow. As much as she enjoyed patrons who knew how to speak the language, there was a certain delight in seeing someone utterly unschooled. Whether in fashion, or in love.\n\n*Blue on one side, red on the other? My, my, that would be intriguing coming from a courtier. Though it seems this dear girl is simply looking at them as colour.*\n\n\"Hmm. I believe that can be arranged, yes,\" She said while delivering more signals, sending her helpers away.\n\nCredit where it was due: Manami seemed to have the clothes in question on hand, rather than needing time to modify or create a requested outfit. Soon, the new *Yukata*, now a vision of black, though contrasted with traces of white and grey like clouds and stars at night.\n\n\"The *Obi*, I admit, will take a day to create.\" Manami added. \"But once it is ready, we will arrange for it to be sent to you at your Embassy.\"\n\nShe smiled coquettishly.\n\n\"Unless of course you'd prefer to come again and collect it in person,\" She purred.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Kiyoko offered a polite smile to Manami. \"The Embassy will be fine. I would *Hate* To impose upon Bayushi-san's hospitality,\" She said, tone carefully neutral. This Bayushi woman certainly did enjoy trying to get a rise out of her.\n\n\"For now, the yukata will be enough. Send the bill to the Crane Embassy along with the obi, if you would, please, Bayushi-san.\"\n\nThe Kakita duelist waited for the yukata to be wrapped in a furoshiki, then took it in hand, made her proper farewells, and retreated back into the room where Masanori awaited.\n\n\n\"Utaku-san, thank you for your patience. I am ready to depart,\" She said, briefly pondering the cheek of handing off her own package to the man. \n\nShe was hardly so brazen or presumptuous, but the thought amused her for a moment. \n\n\"So, does Utaku-san have a favorite tea house? I admit I have only visited one or two.\"\n\n||\n\n||Whenever you can get to it, you're up,"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Though he had little desire to do so, Masanori stood idly by as the Kakita conducted her business. In the absence of anything better to draw his eye, however, the Utaku could not help but find himself glancing on occasion at the two women as they went about the song-and-dance that was the commissioning of garments. If that was what one could call it. Part of him felt guilty, watching the little display. In part, because he did not intervene on behalf of the Crane—though he was certain she would protest such things—and in part because he could not help but wonder whether he and his beloved looked much the same when they flirted between themselves. If nothing else, he usually had the good sense to do so in *Private*.\n\nThankfully, the exchange ended before his patience elapsed entirely, and when the young woman approached him with an inquiry, a not-too-polite one, he simply shook his head.\n\n\"I do not often find myself drinking tea away from the embassy. My preferences are not well represented in most of the city's establishments,\" It was hard to say whether a Crane of standing knew the particular differences between black and green tea, but he was certain if she did, she would find herself on a side opposite his own, \"There is a sake house nearer the Merchant Quarter that I frequent, however. If such a thing would interest you.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "Furoshiki in hand, Kiyoko stopped as she drew up to Masanori. She pondered for a moment, then nodded. For her own part, she was more fond of *Umeshu* Than she was other forms of sake. Still, it wouldn't hurt to indulge, even on the off chance that umeshu wasn't available. \n\n\"I admit I do not often find myself in sake dens, but if Utaku-san vouches for it, then I am willing to try it,\" The Kakita duelist said. \"Out of curiosity, does this sake house have a name?\"\n\nAs she recalled, there was one sake house that had a bad reputation... Shame she didn't remember the name of it. Ah, well. \n\nThat probably wouldn't be the sort of place a Great Clan samurai would frequent. Even a Unicorn.\n\nRight?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "There was a strangeness about the Kakita being unfamiliar with sake dens. Masanori had always imagined such establishments were somewhat essential to the life of a ronin. It stood to reason that they would be equally essential to those who forsook their names and wandered the roads of the Empire on a warrior's pilgrimage. He nodded along, all the same, gesturing for Kiyoko to follow him as he set out deeper into the city.\"\n\n\"Indeed it does. It is called the Plum Garden, for reasons you will see.\"\n\n_\n\nThe walk between Flowing Delights and Jade Street was not particularly long, and foot traffic between the Noble Quarter and Merchant Quarter was mercifully sparse. The Plum Garden itself was not so devoid of people, however. A popular destination, the common room filled with those of higher means, eager to share a drink with friends as the day began to close. Being a frequent customer—and a man of status besides—came with the perk of being afforded a table all the same. The Plum Garden was built around a garden of the very same, and in response to the Unicorn's request, a young heimin woman led the duo of samurai back out onto the *Engawa* Encircling the namesake plum trees, where a low table awaited. Masanori gestured for Kiyoko to sit before taking a place across from her.\n\n\"I have never been one to indulge in the nightlife of the city,\" Masanori mentioned as he settled himself down, \"But I make an exception for this place. The garden lends a certain serenity to it. A small alcove of nature amidst bustling streets. It puts one at ease.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "kiyoko.tamahi",
"message": "The Kakita onnamusha returned Masanori's nod and quietly followed a half-step behind. He seemed a man of few words, which she could certainly appreciate. So while they walked, she simply contemplated. As was often the case with her, that meant running hypothetical kenjutsu scenarios in her head. *If my opponents aim for my forearm, I take my kozume and draw it. If they come at me in jodan-no-kamae, I challenge them directly. If they come at me in chudan-no-kamae, I counter with kuneriuchi...*\n\nAt length, the unlikely pair of samurai arrived at the sake den in question, and Kiyoko hesitated upon seeing how crowded the place was. She had never loved crowds. But she could hardly turn back now, so she squared her shoulders and followed Masanori inside—and back out again to the edge of the facility, where he motioned for her to take a seat at a low table. With an appropriately respectful bow, the duelist removed her Kakita Blade katana from her obi and seated herself, placing the sheathed blade to her right.\n\n\"It is certainly popular,\" Kiyoko said, glancing around at the bustle of the business. \"The plum trees do the place justice, though.\"\nHopefully, the fact that the place featured plums so prominently in its landscaping and its name meant that they carried good *Umeshu*.\n\n\"They seemed to recognize Utaku-san. Is he a frequent visitor? What drink does he recommend here?\"\n\n||"
}
] | 268 | 9,190 |
298.826087 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Iuchi Yuina had been seeing the store just there each day as she passed the edge of the Noble's Quarter's just sitting there. Flowing Designs, an unassuming attire store that certainly promoted a keen sense of kimono style. Given that her kimono had a bit of custom tailoring for her personal circumstances, a place which seemed to do custom designs certainly stood out to her. Notably, she'd even recently been left with circumstances that even pointed upon the exact design of her kimono by another who questioned a light kimono designed for expedient athletics. That was even when she'd been faced with cold circumstances, chilling in an ice shop with such light fabrics. Her size was still otherwise a complexity, far too many places only offered childish options at her height, but her sleeve requirements were by far the most complex part.\n\nShe thus had the idea to consider a few additions to her wardrobe, more than just the stuff she'd brought with her from beyond the city. The reception going in was at least inviting, though she proceeded by her own devices for now. She simply wanted to look around first, she might have other considerations later after getting a better feeling for what was being offered.\n\nShe wasn't finding anything that made her sleeve requirements obvious, though she was enjoying the sense of flare some of the outfits brought to her. It reminded her of the dancing she'd been doing back home, something she hadn't found the chance to explore much in the city beyond generic practice within her own room.. And that was little more than a fitness regime. The city certainly provided her with some unexpected options, though she still knew nothing that might promote a purpose for this line of thought either. Having mostly danced in solitude, it was not as if she yet understood the thrill of a real performance."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Flowing Designs was a relatively popular place among the noble quarters, with those of the eight honorable great clans seeking the best fashion. Whether it was for personal taste, seduction, or embracing the atmosphere of court. A samurai had to look their best, no matter the occasion! Satoshi was here for personal research, believing one that controlled these woven threads, could shift fate in his favor. That and he was of course here for fashion. \n\nKimonos and other high life clothing was primarily made of fine silk, with cheaper and more poor designs coming from cotton, wool, linen or other various fabrics. Satoshi had a lot of studying to do, and tastes to develop! Of course there was other things catching his eye, was there a lost child in here? One's eyes laid upon the girl, she was wearing a unique set of attire. Perhaps she was a regular here? \n\nSatoshi himself wore a cherry red kimono and midnight black hakama. One thing that stood out was his Haori, wearing a bright and bold color such as white. Contrasting with the darker theme the scorpions favored. Today, rather than wearing the Kabuki mempo above the face, it was worn on the back of his head. Almost as if he were saying to anyone behind him, 'I see you', but it was simply a fashion statement. \n\n\"Greetings, Unicorn-sama, I take it you're new here? Flowing Designs eventually attracts all those within these quarters. One couldn't help but find their eyes drawn to the carefully woven fabric of your kimono, did you have it done here?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She was curiously contemplating the choices of fabrics from a mild distance when she found herself in the shared company of a Scorpion. \"Oh, greetings to you as well. Are you maybe a sponsor of this establishment or something? I should have realized that a location like this wouldn't have been organized by a regular merchant, not in this district. The elegance in style certainly is.. Uh.. Meaning something. Kimonos that certainly know.. Umm.. What might be expected of them.. Or something. I'm sorry, yes I'm new around here, I wouldn't know if something like this has.. I don't know, has its own process? I mean, it's custom stuff, so it has a process, but I wasn't aware.. Uh.. Umm...\" She had no idea where she was going with this idea either, she was just trying to be respectful in a place she might have misconstrued somehow. She wasn't the best with social interactions sometimes, not at all.\n\nRealizing there was also a promising change of subject thrown into the mix, she instead leapt to the alternative topic. \"My kimono? Yes, no. I mean, it wasn't but is. I mean, it was an important piece of work, but I got it back home.\" It still took a few tries to piece things together properly. \"That's a long way away now, so.. I'm just looking at alternatives that might be closer to home. I mean home now, not home before. Sorry. Maybe I shouldn't have just rushed into things, I guess. I thought looking around at the sorts of fabrics would be a good place to start. Maybe I could find something like this, but different. Its a good fabric, but I might need alternatives, you know. Like, maybe something that can be warmer when its colder. Well, nothing wrong with having more of a good thing either.\" In general, she hadn't quite figured out exactly what she wanted, and was decidedly overthinking the situation."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Satoshi sat patiently and listened to the Unicorn trip over her words. One of the first things he learned? She certainly wasn't a diplomat. However she walked right and wasn't obliterating etiquette, so her presence was tolerated. \n\n\"Shosuro Satoshi, merely an Artisan that has come to appreciate the craft of Kimonos. You'll find Flowing Designs is unrivaled. They're true traditionalist who know how to add grace to a Samurai's figure.\" \n\nHe spoke casually. Complimenting the work done here in the shop, the young Shosuro hoped to learn. However the Unicorn was of interest. While the woman couldn't deliver a palatable sentence to save her life, he was more than cunning enough to dissect what she was saying. \n\n\"Compliments to those who've weaved your cut, Unicorn-sama. You should be able to find something splendid that will suit your needs. I've come as well to acquire fabric. The creation of Kimono is a fine art to dabble in.\" \n\nSpeaking in a soft elegant tone, Satoshi put his hands within the sleeves of the white haori he wore. Perhaps the woman's company could be tolerated enough.. \n\n\"Something warmer when it gets cold, it seems you want something thicker. Not silk perhaps... If you don't mind. Might I look with you?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Oh, so he wasn't actually associated with the establishment, he was just an encouraging patron with an intense sense of fashion. He did like to speak highly of the place, though.. Certainly there was motivation for that somewhere. It was a curious consideration, but she didn't want to pressure the point socially so eagerly, she'd already made for a rather embarrassing opening as things stood.\n\nShe spent a moment calming down by simply looking around from where she stood by his example of atmosphere here present. \"It has.. A thing, yeah. That said, I don't think the traditional approach will meet all of my needs, so I'm still not sure. Not just because of my size, though getting a cut that properly shows a mature samurai without just looking too overcut might already be alterations needing its own consideration. An alternative approach might be a lot more challenging for a place too adjusted to being strictly traditional. That said, if they are as good with custom designs as the signs made them seem, then maybe there might be something nice here.\"\n\nShe bowed her respect for his appreciation of her present attire, to what that might mean. \"It was something my teacher had arranged for me back home, though I do not know what that had taken. It isn't like I understand much about such fabrics before they become whole. I just have had need of something very easy to flow inside without the piece failing to keep up with my own motions. Warmth has been a new idea, but I worry thickness would be terrible for other reasons then. It isn't like heavy attire would flow very well. If you're someone who craves to solve fabric puzzles of such a design, maybe you might know of something which flows properly?\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Well her concerns were just. Wanting to find something her size and not look like a damn child, given her size that may have been hard. Granted, Satoshi was short standing only five two, but he was young so that was an excuse! However she herself didn't seem too old, maybe she was young. Scratching those thoughts away, he focused on the woman's dilemma. \n\n\"Well, silk will certainly be out of the question. Perhaps linen or cotton could be better choices, of course the skill of the cutter will be put to the test for your needs.\" \n\nThen there was the question of what the heck she does. Does her clan not provide clothing? Barbarics... Placing a smile on his face, Satoshi would inquire more. \n\n\"What activities demand these special requests for your clothing? You seem like you want to move quickly and keep warm, do you have challenging tasks in winter?\" \n\nShe almost sounded like a Bushi, but he knew no shrimp like her could be one. Who knows, maybe she'd surprise the young arrogant Shosuro."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She expected her needs would put the skills of any tailor to the test, but that was mostly because a samurai needed better than most. \"Linen or cotton? I don't know, maybe? Do they breath well enough for someone who is rather active? That seems to be the biggest problem with something designed to be warm, it just does not seem designed for running the span of the city thrice in the span of a sunrise. It's why I decided to go out and do my own research, to see things myself. Trying to bring a request to the staff at our embassy had proven difficult without knowing what I was even looking for. You seem to be the researched type, certainly you understand the value in going out and looking at the alternatives just to learn.\"\n\nHer pondered uncertainty and contrasted curiousity was certainly filled with a sense of cuteness she wasn't consciously attempting to express, but such a thing simply happened frequently enough. She wasn't making much use of her hands, the pair of them just furled into her sleeves disregarded. It could almost be said that she might have then been taking a thoughtful approach exclusively to the situation, pondering the dilemma that only curious ingenuity could resolve. Almost... As this was still mostly true, it was her feet that weren't the most willing to simply wait on hold, she was thus pacing back and forth through her silent conjecture to follow at a rapid and yet elegant stride. A straight line to the right of the presented lineup, with an elegant twirl and a swift reversal towards the left before repeating once again in a perfect reversal. A dozen turns in a score of seconds before stopping abruptly in the middle to face the lineup, step back once, and then forwards to lean in for a closer look, then back once again deep in thought.\n\nIt was almost like the flow of a dance, without intending to be so."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Well the woman was certainly active. Despite not looking the part she was likely athletic, but the mix of wanting warmth with flexibility and flow was unusual. Typical unicorns.. However, the idea had intrigued Satoshi. The young scorpion by no means was an expert, in fact the boy was just a mere learner. He could tailor proper clothing but this was certainly a challenge. \n\n\"I must say, this is quite the complex demand. You want warmth, breathing, and great motion. Typically Kimono serve one purpose, and you don the appropriate fitting.\" \n\nWatching her movements, he took on quick to the woman's lack of hands. Doubting she tried to conceal something, perhaps she was cold, or had problems using her hands. How weird could she be? Well, whatever. Satoshi didn't know if the Unicorn was fishing for attention trying to seduce him or genuinely wanting another kimono. \n\n\"Well Unicorn-sama, I'd be honored to aid you in this challenging task. I am Shosuro Satoshi, pleased to meet your acquaintance. Might I ask you something?\" \n\nHe introduced himself, hoping she'd do the same before he inquired her of something else."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She paused to consider the statement. \"One purpose? But flow of motion has always needed a material that breathes. Even my brother had always had something like that, and he was something of a very outgoing bushi. Those just seem normal.. Unless I guess someone gets to sit around all day. That might certainly be colder. Well, that just means the main solution for keeping huddle-buddies warmer isn't for me, but there should still be an alternative solution somewhere that has something going on. How else do people stay active in cold places? Does that mean I should go ask a Dragon then for their own insight?\" She sighed in contemplation, wondering where she might need to go for appropriate people used to doing stuff in cold places. People from taller mountains just seemed like the next going idea.\n\nWell, she did have someone here eager to help, so maybe that too would be an alternative solution to save for if things here did not work out. \"Hmm? There is something you need? Oh! I'm terribly sorry. I'm Iuchi Yuina, and I thank you for your efforts so far with figuring this stuff out. Getting alternative insight has certainly been handy. Yes, what sort of insight are you looking for in all of this?\" She had know idea what sort of thing they were asking about, but at least learning the question was more informative than silently speculating upon it. Sometimes, even hearing questions she couldn't answer was at least more informative than not hearing it at all. As someone with plenty of curiousity, she knew the value in good questions."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "He was no master or expert in the art of Kimono, but as a young man aspiring to learn he saw fit to help the Unicorn. Her demands could in fact be met, it seemed she didn't understand the complexity of various clothing. The highest and richest cuts of fabric were often meant for showing up in court or ceremony, typically worn by a dimwit Crane. However, breathable and flexible fabric was donned by Ashigaru, despite it being cheaper to produce. \n\n\"Heh, I'm certain we will find something suitable to your calling.\" \n\nHe chuckled at her inquiry of asking a Dragon of all people. Their lands were indeed cold, however their manufacturing was poor as any Heimins old farm. That's what Satoshi believed anyway. \"A pleasure acquainting you, Iuchi-san, I just had some questions that may bring clarity. Given you seem light on your feet, are you a performer? I take it this special order of fabric is to make dancing more comfortable?\" \n\nThis was of course a guess from mere brief observance. Satoshi was curious about her arm, but didn't want to press down on an insecurity. Perhaps he'd be able to find a way to learn of it later."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "A performer? It was certainly something she had slight experience with, an elegant use of her time as would be applied to making the most of her feet. She was still more of an amateur though, especially since she led with her feet.. The rest of her body was not as tuned to her movements. She was more athletic than anything more elegance in motion, but she did have potential. She certainly had been practicing at being something a bit more in that as well. Having something that might help with furthering that goal wouldn't be a bad thing as well. She already had footwear, having attire that helped with the rest was only focusing on outstanding issues.\n\nIt wasn't as if she was looking for gloves either.\n\nShe thus simply nodded, it was accurate enough. \"Having something to make dancing more comfortable would be lovely, thank you. The elegance in my footwork has certainly been an important consideration even before coming to this city, though I have found it more challenging to have such considerations realized within the city, as I'm still not used to anything here. This could certainly be a positive start at least. Even so, remaining active has been an important way to keep warm, but I've found there are occasions here where things might get.. A bit too cold instead. Waiting does not give one an opportunity to always be active.\" The city could certainly be suffocating like that too, especially while so many others questioned her desire to go on athletic jogs around the city so much.\n\nHer present company looked like he might have opinions about that too, but was more focused upon the curiousity of a good puzzle. At least she was herself familiar with the eagerness to discover alternative solutions, so it was fair enough."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "So her problems weren't just being active and moving, the Iuchi struggled with enduring the temperature too? Eh, what the heck. Satoshi figured to just help her out, while he was no Master he should know enough to do his thing. Turning around, the scorpion gestured for the young woman to follow. \n\n\"Alright! Let's find you something worthwhile.\" He said excitedly, almost as if he broke composure. Satoshi's hopes of dabbling in the art were now being tested, a small challenge like this was sure to be fun. The woman didn't strike him as someone who wanted to be shiny and overly polished. Therefore a drop in fabric quality was affordable. Something thick cut long enough to give her freedom. \n\nLooking at a few displays, there were various textiles good enough for clothing. Silk, cotton, wool, hemp, but he sought Linen in particular. It was very breathable and still had good quality, worthwhile for a unicorn anyway. Upon locating an appropriate display of the fabric, he would inquire her thoughts. \n\n\"What do you think? If you intend to move around more often and keep warm in general, I think Linen is appropriate for you.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She followed along, curiously inquisitive as to what line of thought the Scorpion had reached here. Eventually, this brought her before something of a fancy fabric for her purview. Linen, apparently, it did look like it could be very fancy if it was shaped and designed appropriately. She did find it curious how the portion of the fabric nearest the window that caught a lot of sunlight seemed a bit faded somehow, and did notice that the fabric had a bunch more wrinkles than she was used to on what was obviously an ideal showpiece. Was it that hard to maintain? The fabric seemed of an interesting texture otherwise, though she certainly was no expert on the subject, so she had no idea how it might feel to wear practically without actually wearing it. She knew she would also need to consider the designs it might be applied to, the pale beige on display certainly wouldn't suit her, but there were probably other color and design options available too. Odds were high, nothing here would actually fit her, but that could be adjusted later.\n\nHaving eventually discovered an opinion, she put a measure of that to voice. \"It looks like a thing. I'm not sure, though. It's hard to tell like this.\" She didn't nearly put all of her observations to words, despite having the motions to overlook her own observations just prior to that."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "While Satoshi seemed sure, Yuina didn't. Perhaps she needed more? Placing a finger on his chin, the young man pondered. Linen was quite a nice fabric, maybe she needed it seen as a finished design. Luckily, they were in a shop dedicated to this very thing. \n\n\"So tell me, Iuchi-sama, does this particular material not interest you? It could suit your needs well.\" He figured to ask just in case, the scorpion wasn't interested in wasting time after all. Though there could be something intriguing to learn about the woman. She had something weird going on with her hands, and despite her size was quite athletic. \n\n*' I guess the Unicorn can breed more than ugly horse-flinging brutes.'* He Thought to himself which made the man chuckle. \n\n\"Don't be afraid to inquire! The services of flowing designs cater to that of the Samurai! I'm sure aspiring tailors would enjoy using you as a model of some sort.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She pondered briefly the linen presented to her, considering the extent of her thoughts on its potential. \"It's a material, but that's not exactly considering the alternatives.. Or even the details. It's a thing, enough that I'm not just turning it down, but... I guess that itself might mean its.. Uh.. Interesting. A perfect yes or a terrible no aren't interesting, they are just obvious. Only when you can't tell are there enough questions for it to be a further curiousity.\" She poked the fabric with her left hand, seeing if additional contact presented any other certainties, but again she had little to work with in a fabric sample. Of course, she did not even try anything with her right hand, there would be no point of that.\n\nShe was still curious on the comparison of alternatives, but she did expect that a better presentation of the sample could at least provide her with more answers. \"If there's a more sample sample, that.. Might be something to check out, maybe. Hard to gauge if it solves all of its purposes without actually testing for them. Like, is this really warm enough? Can it really handle fitness well enough? Could there be something else that does, but better? If something else is better, you would know that.. As a samurai, I really shouldn't settle for anything less. Better is just harder to define when exploring stuff like this. I mean, if breathability makes it harder to stay warmer, then its more a matter of being the most accurate alternative, the best compromise. That would be a lot of.. Interpretation. So.. Yeah, I might need a better demonstration than a cloth sample just sitting there.\" She just didn't like the idea of pushing a fitting, which could take too long. Even if it was too big for her, a demo piece could at least give her a feeling for how a fitted one might feel for her."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "One thing Satoshi learned immediately about this lady, she was terrible with her words! Luckily the young man was wearing a Mask, the expression of confusion certainly was bold. Essentially she just wanted materials to compare the Linen to, which was fine and all. There were other various samples they could utilize. Cotton, silk, linen, wool. He pondered over it for a bit, but figured what the heck? Might as well grab them all why not. \n\nThat's exactly what the young Shosuro did for the next few minutes. Gathering samples of fabrics for the young unicorn to try out. Making himself at home unapologetically, he laid out each textile on a table. Here she'd be able to judge and determine what was comfortable. She had many needs, it would be hard not to compromise. It was her decision though... \n\n\"Alright! We got a bunch of stuff! You know, you certainly don't have to buy just one. Why not buy them all and dedicate a kimono to your purposes? Certainly, your clan can afford it you know.\" Money wasn't a worry for a Samurai. With their bazaar succeeding in funds they were more wealthy than normal. Perhaps they were more stingy than they let on?"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She wasn't sure she liked this idea. It looked like throwing an extensive amount of time at a problem, which for a samurai was not a rich resource. It also was terribly inelegant, getting a lot of stuff just in hopes that one of them would be good enough. This wasn't exactly research for the sake of accuracy, she figured she would be just mocked if she didn't actually come up with a constructive conclusion. The worst part was by far the most Unicorn, as what kind of Unicorn would overstock in goods, when they travel so often. Having too much stuff just seemed terribly wrong, the resulting clutter was a thought that actually made her shudder in disgust.\n\nWhile it was an attempted alternative solution, it wasn't a sufficient substitute for proper research. \"Sorry, no thanks. Hmm, I'm not sure about this one. Its soft, but not very warm. It handles air well, but this dryness makes me uneasy about how it reacts around water.\" As a water shugenja, the cotton was naturally just making her feel uneasy, mostly for being better in heat than cold, though that was sensible because it handled water very poorly. The silk looked normal enough, mostly because it was used frequently enough for other things, she had no real opinion on it as a result.\n\nThe wool left her with a strong reaction, noticing it was effectively cotton but worse. \"This.. Is pretty rough. It seems pretty warm though, but.. Otherwise? Are you sure this is a good material?\" It was starting to feel like he was just throwing random materials at her, making her uneasy about the recommendations he might be offering her in general. If she knew that wool was terrible to both moisture as well as prolonged body heat, she would have possibly had even further reasons to be concerned. As things stood, she mostly just didn't like how scratchy the material seemed to be for her left hand, which would be abrasive after prolonged usage.\n\nIt was as if he had became dismissive after extra research was involved."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Here Satoshi was throwing random materials at her, some better than others but all within tradition. Of course, there were textiles abundant, but not all were befitting of a proper samurai. The young Shosuro was no expert and had only a limited knowledge of fabrics, certain things were simply out of his grasp. Nevertheless, he was passionate about all he did. Therefore he wouldn't stop trying! \n\n\"Well, these are most the materials used when crafting attire. Some of them are not fit to be worn by Samurai.\" \n\nHis hands trailed amongst a few of them. She wanted something flexible and loose, but also warm. To be truthful there was no right answer. The material and depending on the length of the cut decided that, regardless it wouldn't be perfect either way. Her best choice was silk, however. \n\n\"In my opinion, your best bet is the silk, however, I think we may have something else..\" \n\nThe young man walked away, while the man didn't want to be seen for selling crappy fabric, he also didn't want to appear ignorant. Thus he pulled out a material they didn't often sell, primarily it was given to the lower class. However it may have been a better option, he'd let Yuina decide. \n\n\"I forget what it's called, Velour... Velvet? One of those. You may not like it. Take a look.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "He seemed to really be pushing the silk idea. The stuff looked really normal, the most generic thing. She wasn't exactly skilled with fabrics at all, so the sample did not stand out to her as being the most generic material generally all kimono were made from. Her own material would have been closer to cotton in design, light and good for someone very active, but then better in heat than cold. Her own had been treated with stuff to make sure it was good for a samurai of her style of fitness, again not a process she was familiar with. The Unicorn would have made sure she was well take care of in selecting such a design. By her own nature, she didn't like just being take care of, that sort of protectiveness didn't sit well with her. Getting more involved was working a bit better.\n\nShe however was also one who liked options, to consider what could be done. It was disappointing when the scorpion could present nothing interesting.. Until he suddenly did like it was an afterthought. Velvet, a material that was a double-woven style mixing both cotton and silk, it seemed a complicated thing she couldn't figure out. The careful weaving made it difficult to identify its composite materials, but it also made it look extravagant. It somehow felt fragile in her hands, but it was still nice. It seemed to breath well, and the heavier weight felt warmer. To her, she considered that the velvet might actually be a good consideration for an alternative to silk.\n\nThat didn't mean she was confident about one over the other, though. \"I don't know, it seems nice. This or the silk, maybe. It's hard to tell from only a sample. Do you think there is a sample to wear, just to see what it might be like wearing it? Doesn't have to be to size, only like.. A more sample sample. More than just a sheet of cloth sample.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Here he was expecting the Unicorn to shoot another idea down. Seemed they preferred cheaper alternatives to real things. Satoshi couldn't see the appeal of the velvet, seemed like a fabric you'd give to reward a Heimin. However, he wouldn't scorn Yuina for taking a taste of it. As a matter of fact, he was somewhat glad she didn't turn it down. Thoughts of the woman's taste and standards were pushed to the back of his mind. \n\n\"I can check if we have something. Though I can't say for sure...\" He shuffled off to go and search. There was a room where they stashed their Inventory, though velvet wasn't a fabric they touched a lot. Cotton and silk were the primary materials used. For the next few minutes, Yuina would hear things being thrown around a backroom as clothes and boxes tumbled across the floor. The young Shosuro scrambled to find something remotely the same. \n\nAfter a few minutes of almost no success, the scorpion walked out of the room panting. Holding a piece of the same fabric. Rather than a Kimono, it was but a simple Haori. Light blue, probably meant for a crane. \"Might be a little big, but I think this is the one. You know Iuchi-san, you have some unique taste.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She waited patiently while things progressed within, occupying herself in quiet thought. The amount of effort going on at least provoked the idea that this place was less versatile on fabric and more on just custom design.. Maybe. That still had yet to be seen, too. It was probably fine either way, a learning experience, she had a backup alternative still.. Like she always did. She knew Exotic Elegance had a reputation for exotic styles, it was even in their name, but those weren't made in store. She knew her design and size was rather custom, so it would be a lot to ask of Exotic Elegance. However, if this place wasn't that flexible, then there wouldn't be that much difference, would also need to get materials shipped in for a custom piece. It certainly gave her plenty to consider while waiting.\n\nEventually, she found herself greeted with one of the two samples she could work with for at least wearing. A haori, so like a long coat typically worn over a kimono. It was funny that it had those crane designs, given that all of this started because of a certain crane. The layer idea was one thing, at least, to give warmth in a second layer she could don when required. It was just a pain to run around in at all, so only something to wear if she'd be sitting around a lot. Another alternative to just a new kimono at least, so it had its own vestige of purpose.\n\nShe accepted it carefully with her left hand, reviewing it in the process carefully. \"Thank you.\" She made sure to go behind a private screen before donning it, even if it was more of a coat. There was just something proper about not changing one's layers in public, even a coat. The haori was exceedingly huge for her, which did fluff its weight atop its volume, but it gave something of a context to what it did. Still, she needed to evaluate everything a bit more.\n\nShe made sure to call back while working with the haori. \"While I'm checking this out, could you get the other sample ready, please?\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "The young man watched with contentment, having a small breather as she went to change. While she was doing that, he needed to clean up and organize. Satoshi with a quick pace tidied up the mess made, there were various samples and sheets of fabric unused. Maybe he could take some for experimenting? Most wouldn't understand, but the Young man was here so he could design his theatre wear. Making the stage a more grand place was his idea. \n\n\"You got it!\" He said with enthusiasm. Satoshi did a good share of snooping around the place. Grabbing a few pieces he'd cut for himself later, and of course, the samples Yuina required. He always had a knack of going overboard and collecting more than needed. The Scorpion made it a habit to prove himself. \n\n\"So Iuchi-san, have you ever thought about performing? You're acquiring the proper clothing for moving, surely you've thought about it. Typically those who engage in such activities come here to get something more lavish and attention-grabbing. What else do you do?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Of course, a coat layer was inadequate for a proper evaluation, which left her a bit of awkwardness. She started with it being just a coat, but had to switch to wrapping herself in it like a dress without her kimono simply to test how the fabric felt. At the very least, being an oversized coat made it wrap similar to a kimono, but the interpretation of this sample would probably take a lot of thought. The velvet seemed interesting otherwise, quite thick and soft, but would need a proper comparison to another sample.\n\nWhen the silk alternatives were set out for her, she gave a chosen one a try as well. It was also thick and soft, still too large for her, already an actual kimono. Actually, it seemed like a regular kimono, like it was just the going default. There was a sensibility in normal, but it was like that Crane had said. Who in the world hikes around the city in a regular kimono? Obviously something like this would need more reserved uses, it even didn't seem to breath as well as the velvet had, but the Crane had probably worn this silk too, and had not been cold. It was a very perplexing conundrum. For now, to compare with what she already had, she got back into her own regular attire, setting the provided samples aside for further consideration.\n\nPondering her concern, the new question caught her off guard. \"Performing? ... Well, uh, umm... I do know how to dance, but most of this City hasn't seemed like the place for that sort of thing. It's very.. Uh... I don't know. Bookish? Is that the right way to put it? Probably not. Beyond the embassy or the bazaar, I've not seen anything which shows anyone might care about that sort of thing. So, no.. I guess I haven't thought of it much. I do miss that sort of thing from back home, but things change sometimes. Have to keep up, you know?\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Waiting patiently as she Went through the assorted samples of kimono And fabric. The young man pondered about her uses for such a thing. Dancing was a passion or activity she enjoyed. While the city wasn't open to there being such things done in the open, some establishments did welcome the art. Satoshi was a man of the arts after all! \n\n\"There are scattered establishments which allow dancing among other activities. I often visit them, particularly to scout talents among those who share my passion for artistic pursuits. This city could use those who appreciate the fine culture of Rokugan.\" \n\nHe certainly sounded proud. The young scorpion wanted to orchestrate a play with various figures among the stationed Samurai in the city. Of course, she was a Unicorn and their clan relations were terrible, so he wouldn't impede too much. \n\n\"Perhaps sometime we can find a proper place for you to dance, it'd be a shame not to grace such a city that needs it.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Her curiousity was poked by this information, details that there was dancing to be done, she'd just not found anything like that yet. \"Really? Huh, neat. What kind of places, for example?\" She didn't want to get carried away, there was always things she shouldn't be doing, so just being told about something didn't mean it was something to believe as an option. Technically, that was even more true from one with his clan's reputation, at least the reputation she'd heard about from her own clan. He might be the first Scorpion she knew, but that just implied she didn't know what she was doing. It would, of course, be best to get input from an alternative source regarding all of that.. After she learned his details first.\n\nShe, of course, wasn't sure the most sensible way to collect this information though, both here and elsewhere from such an alternate source. Maybe someone else in her clan knew, or an ally, she had no certainty there though. She also didn't know what else to ask about it, leaving her pondering blank words. It was then much like the entire kimono situation, an unknown left to ponder. Still, she'd gained a lot of insight into the kimono situation, it was just disappointing that she couldn't do nearly as well with this dance opportunity. Of course, what troubled her the most about it was that it had occurred while capturing her curiousity. This was also serving to distract her from her original purpose at the same time."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Satoshi was a Scorpion of culture, seeking to combat various influences with that of the Rokugani tradition. While he was not Bushi or Shugenja, there were many ideals to uphold. The theatre was one of them, a personal passion of his. There were others, such as Painting, Poetry, maybe even Rakugo. Finding a place for those who respected such arts to melt together was important! Almost as important as finding the people! \n\n\"They're here and there. I'm going to scout them soon, one of which is the Bards Mane. I hear it's not the most delicate but I'll find out soon enough.\" \n\nAfter getting all of the sample arrangements prepared, he'd wait for the one she wanted. Of course, he continued speaking on the situated topic. \"Would you be interested in such a place? I intend on finding an appropriate settlement where performances can be held.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She pondered the first answer to her curiousity made available to her briefly. \"The Bard's Mane.. Hmm... Haven't heard of it, I don't think. I'll have to consider looking into it maybe.\" By which she would need to get alternate opinions on the place from other people. She did not have the most confidence hearing that it was not only not the most 'delicate', but also that even the Scorpion would 'have to find out soon enough.' With that combination, she would probably have better luck finding an opportunity in the bazaar. Maybe it implied the Scorpion was newly set on this project, that it was really a very work-in-progress idea, but he just didn't want to phrase it that way. It would make sense to allow patience to foster a fresh vision.\n\nShe was then careful in how she replied, to its own measure of compassion. \"I'm not sure about any specific option, but the city does need more awareness of its opportunities for musical arts. You should totally put something together to raise its exposure properly, which might hopefully attract a lot of proper attention. I would really appreciate a place which could do something like that.\" An open enough opportunity that would allow her enough freedom to find alternative opinions first. Was there really that much of an opportunity for dance here, beyond what she knew?\n\nOf course, at this point, she wasn't even thinking about her original purpose for coming here at all, the samples she'd requested simply sitting there waiting for her thoughts to return to them. Progress towards making a choice was then completely frozen."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Capturing Yuinas interest was the first step, it seemed Satoshi managed to do that. Now that he had her inclined to dip into the matter, the young scorpion just had to follow through with the plan. Several other Artisans were intrigued with the idea, raising awareness and desire was vital. Using Flowing Designs could be an asset, as many would want to prepare for such a place, every Clan had something to flaunt. \n\n\"Indeed! I'm exploring the various sites to see which is appropriate to house the Great Clans of Rokugan! Art, dancing, music, and more! There's much culture to appreciate and explore! Why not here in the city of stories? Hmm?\" \n\nHe spoke with much enthusiasm, passionate about fulfilling the vision carried. Even though he was immersed in going over the project, he still had a focus on what they were previously doing. Tilting his head, the Shosuro gestured to the samples he provided and laid out. The Unicorn's original motive of coming was pushed to the back of her mind, was it so easy to distract her? \n\n\"Would you like to dance with me sometime?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She knew there was a lot to explore, she'd really only just started. Even coming to this store was but an example of checking some notable opportunities out. She'd just not done so from the perspective of artistic pursuits, but maybe the city might have something there that she just hadn't sufficiently found yet. Even so, she knew the value of proper alternative approaches, she wasn't about to just blindly run into matters. She just hadn't worked out a suitable alternative approach yet.\n\nShe was still paying attention to the Samurai's earnest passion in the mentioned vision, but was trying to not have that distract her from her own alternate considerations. She needed to... Oh, wait, no, he was also drawing attention to the samples she might have lost track of there at some point. That actually worked for a proper consideration, to handle the kimono concern first, to consider this other stuff as matters flowed afterwards. That would probably for the best, she would just need to recover her thoughts on that process first, then...\n\nShe paused as the next question took a moment to process, and the exceedingly shy little samurai lost track of her own complexion. \"You mean.. Umm... By dance... It's not that... Of a sort... But honestly... As a thing... There is the... That isn't what... So I mean... Excuse me.\" She grabbed the samples and made a dive back into the fitting area, going back over them again to recover the ideas on that subject which she might have lost at some point. Certainly, this was a much better alternative, given the present situation."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "He watched as the Unicorn grew flustered and fled with the samples of fabric. Satoshi tilted his head to the side, placing a finger on his chin. Did he say something wrong? He just asked if she wanted to dance sometime, wasn't that her hobby? What kind of dancer is afraid to dance!? It then it hit him, how could he be so stupid!? Yuina clearly got nervous, feeling unworthy to be in the Shosuro's presence, that was the only possible explanation! \n\n\"Oi, Iuchi-san! Let me know which sample you go with so I can have it cut for you!\" \n\nThe young man simply raised his voice high enough for the Unicorn to hear. Hoping she'd figure it out soon. Meanwhile, the scorpion found himself with nothing to do, thus he decided to fidget with his hands for a bit until he had an idea. Making his way over, he shuffled through the straw basket he carried around everywhere on his back. Typically he stored a plethora of things in it, after rummaging through for a while he found what he was looking for. \n\n\"Hehehehehe...\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Between the double-woven velvet and silk, she was feeling a bit better about the former, but could see the value in the latter. She just wasn't completely confident about it. That.. Was probably mostly because there was now more to consider than just the garment. She'd came here to get something to endure sitting through a cold reception, where her activity would not serve to keep her warm. She was however also presented with the option that the city may have its place to dance, she wasn't sure what she should wear for that either. It might matter more the dance that would await her, be that an active energetic twirl or something much cooler and calculated. That might mean her present attire plus her desired attire could together serve all of the circumstances she might need to worry about, but she did not know the cultural implications of attire others here would expect from a samurai dancer. She knew the Unicorn values, but was not certain that met all of the expectations.\n\nShe might need to be ready for considering more alternatives in the future, but this was really leaving her considering that she might want to take what she'd learned and go seek the council of others to make a more educated decision. Mostly others within her own clan. That might be her best decision at present, to consider this research and education and to leave.. Empty handed. Wiser in consideration so that she could research further and maybe return with a comprehensive decision. This was probably not the best environment to make a decision, there was too much outside influence for clarity of mind. Step aside, think about it with alternative research, come back later if desired.\n\nThis left her trying to put the samples away when she found the Scorpion digging through his own stuff. \"I thank you for your support, and have decided... Hmm? Lost something through all of this mess?\" She could not look closer while otherwise trying to put stuff away, so could only ask instead."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "He turned around, standing up to face the Unicorn who inquired. Satoshi indeed found something, an object that would test his theory. First, he returned the question, wanting to know if she would take the fabric. \"Have you settled on what you want? Would be a shame if your visit were for nothing! Here I have more samples you can try out, and if you want! I'll throw in something extra.\" \n\nMoving over to the table, he grabbed an extra piece of fabric. This time it was another Haori, something more suitable to her smaller figure. Using this as a reference could assist the young man in cutting the actual thing. Approaching the woman, he spoke, \"You don't mind do you? I need a bit of reference if I'm gonna make your Kimono.\" \n\nHe inquired, opening the sleeves for Yuina to slide her arms through. \"You know, you got real nervous all a sudden. Need Tea or something? If you're feeling sick you should say something.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She felt almost insulted, in an only mild way, hearing that knowledge gained accounted for nothing. \"I wouldn't say its been nothing. Research can always be valuable, and then followed with alternative research. I guess if you already have further research on hand, we can learn from that too. But if I leave with nothing more than wisdom, that's not nothing. I can always come back another time once I've got enough figured out.\" At least, if that's the way things would go. Of course, she was always one open to considering viable alternatives.\n\nIt helped that she knew there was a tailor among her own clan too, someone who could take her measures and produce something which would fit her. She'd just never met that particular samurai before.\n\nShe was not keen on getting help putting on a coat over her kimono from another samurai, especially of another clan. Something about that felt really awkward. When it was held out for her, she simply took it all with her left hand and brought it back to the fitting room area for her to look over and then try on. Even avoiding usage of her right hand, leaving her quite short handed, she certainly preferred to handle something like this herself.\n\nWhile taking care of that, she shared back her other responses. \"No, I'm not feeling sick or something. I'm quite capable, thank you very much. So what makes this piece special at all? I see its smaller, is that all?\" The feeling of being over-protected atop the earlier mild insults had served to put her on edge, and thus served to mildly shift her tone from her previous variation to something a bit more outspoken in an otherwise composed way."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "A burst of passion came out of nowhere, as she tried to say this little trip of hers wasn't for nothing. He was simply trying to be courteous, now look where it got him. Yuina was certainly an oddball, first, she was the size of a little brat and fidgeted every word, but now she took some initiative showing her resolve. How do they grow up so fast? He really didn't know what to say. Although Satoshi had a theory to test. \n\nWhen she took the kimono from him rather than accept his offer. He brokered a strong eye contact between them, using a smile as a veil, delivering a wink to the Unicorn. During this, he raised a hand, not jolting or quick, but smooth, a simple wave. This was him placing a flower in the girl's hair, hoping she wouldn't notice until gazing in the mirror. || Sleight of Hand 4 - Pickpocket || \n\nAfter she was gone changing clothes, he gave a simple response. \"The Velvet sample was far too big, I have to see what fits you in order to cut it to size. It isn't an easy job you know. Takes a good eye and even sharper hands.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She still didn't like how the Scorpion reminded her of her brother for all the wrong reasons. Mostly the most wrong reason, they weren't really alike in any other way. Still, that one reason had been her entire motivation to want to put distance between them, which then explained her presently developing distance with the Scorpion. The feeling like her learning was being mocked didn't help either, especially when she really liked learning opportunities.\n\nIn consideration of that learning opportunity, she looked over the piece that was given to her. So this was a different velvet, one that supposedly was better for testing out. It still worked like a coat, she even threw it over herself easily like another coat, a layer over her layers. It was the same problem as last time, and this was why she knew he couldn't just properly help her put this one. She again had to wear it as a kimono to see how that felt. This took more time, especially with only using her one hand, swapping out her entire kimono to grasp what this would be like upon her. Thus focused upon the effort that took, she noticed nothing out of the ordinary. She felt the better fitting fabric over her, and then looked into the mirror for another perspective.\n\nWell, somehow it made her look cute. It was probably the design of the fabric, that was something she would also have to consider, but she would probably look into insight from people with a talent in drawing and tailoring. She had heard her clan had one such person, who might be able to figure out something which would work really well. A quick letter might serve enough to make that work out. She gauged her opinion otherwise in the distinction while she got changed back into her regular fitted kimono. She eventually got back into her regular attire, still wondering about her cuter reflection, and glanced again at the mirror. It was only then that she noticed the flower that stood out as unusual in contrast to her regular appearance.\n\nShe was immediately confused at where that had came from, worried she'd brushed against something that had caught in her hair, which might have then made a mess of something else. She was usually very precise in her steps, so a misstep like that was extremely troubling. She tried to get it out of her hair.. Only to realize that the reflection implied it was sitting on the right side of her hair. That just made things even worse, it was in a terrible spot that was rough for her left hand to reach. Regrettably, she had to make use of her right.\n\nThe lack of coordination in her right hand made it exceedingly frustrating. She couldn't feel the flower, so was depending upon her reflection to coordinate where the flower was. This involved missing a lot as her hand could just not grasp the task at hand properly either. Grabbing something was a fitful art of futility, only investing further into her growing frustration. At a point, she found no alternative but to vent that frustration audibly, basically snarling at her own reflection. Eventually, she managed to brush the flower out, which then fell to the ground. She still had no idea where it had came from, so left the cover of the fitting room with it in her left hand in order to figure out where to put it back. This then returned her to the presence of the Scorpion, though she was more worried about the flower at that point."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "As she was inside the dressing room, he figured to do a bit of clean-up as he somewhat overheard her frustration. Shrugging his shoulders and getting back to work, he figured she was just too fat for the kimono or something, an extra small kimono was picked out due to her child-like size. \n\n*' Actually that's probably not the case... Hmm, well whatever'* \n\nIt was then she came out, her hair seemingly ruffled, the Kanzashi no longer decorating her head. Oh... He briefly thought to himself, seeing his little theory was inaccurate. Well, how was Satoshi going to play it off? It's not like she caught him red-handed. \n\n\"How was the fit, Iuchi-san? I hoped it'd work well so I can have one cut for you. What have you got there?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Feeling flustered was leaving her more convinced this was a decision to make another day. \"I have no idea where this came from, maybe the winds? I can't find where it blew off from either... Maybe it was the wind kami finding humor in my efforts today. Maybe.. I'll just try this again another day. Thank you for.. Stuff. Learning, all that. Seriously, where did this thing come from?\" Her curiousity was not helping, either. She could have just left it on a table as someone else's problem, or thrown it away like it was trash. She was tempted to do neither, though it was something of an internal conflict at that point because she was that frustrated.\n\nShe at least placed the fabrics she'd been working with carefully folded upon the sampling table the Scorpion stood beside. It did leave the flower as the only remaining reason she hadn't simply bid her farewell and left then."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Her pent-up frustration was practically radiating off her body, she really didn't like the Kanzashi trick huh? Satoshi let out a sigh, flicking his hand out he revealed several Kanzashi between the fingers. Another wave of his hand caused the sleeve of his Haori to cover it for a brief second, ridding his hand of the pins. || Sleight of Hand 4 - Prestidigitation || Afterward, the Scorpion gave an apologetic bow. \n\n\" Forgive me, Iuchi-san, I like to use my Theater skills to increase business and opportunities wherever I go. Your dissatisfaction and malaise is my shame, if there is anything I can do to appease your time here, I will be honored to fulfill it.\" \n\nSatoshi spoke like a diplomat. Holding his hand out to take the pin, he hoped she didn't burst into a fit and throw the thing at him. That's happened before, once... Anyway, he hoped his words would be enough to solve the issue. Crushing one's reputation wasn't the intent here. \n\n\"I can still assure you the best of our products are delivered! Those who seek us out are usually looking to fulfill specific purposes, as recompense for your inconvenience I can throw in another item for you.\" He smiled hoping to rectify the situation. || Etiquette 4 - Sincerity. He's trying to salvage the situation ||"
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "Oh, it was a trick. She just handed the Scorpion the flower, without handing her opinion as directly in the process. She just seemed deep in thought and contemplation. His sincerity was not a missed consideration, but shattered trust came with an impact of its own. This could only be considered further when considering matters of reputation. So her opinion was very complicated, though she was one who carefully considered her alternatives.\n\nAfter prolonged silence, she spoke again. \"I think I still want to leave this decision for another day. Still, if you are so eager to not leave things like this, learning is still good. Do you have anything that might.. Be convincing for coming back.. Over any other alternative? Hopefully more than just.. Complementary flowers?\" He thought poorly of her gained insight, so it felt like it might be a challenge upon him he might hold in the worst respect. Then again, it was also a concept that certainly would have been the least satisfying thing she'd heard. Maybe he could at least fix that mistake."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "After taking the pin she handed, it slid back up his sleeve as he faced her intently. She certainly wasn't happy based on her words, the reputation of him and this establishment was sure to dwindle. If there were something to salvage, it would be a reason for coming back. They possessed the best wares the city had to offer, however that did not seem to impress the Unicorn. Placing a finger on his chin, he pondered an answer, but what would satisfy the woman? \n\n\"Well, besides offering our highest quality products, there is not much I can offer you, beneath this establishment that is,\" He spoke softly, hoping what he had to say next would reel things back in. \"If I recall, you liked to dance, after we find a kimono suitable for your needs, I can show you a place I know. I'm passionate about pursuing the arts in this city! What say you?\" \n\nSatoshi was certainly not sure if that was what the woman wanted to hear. Granted if she went her separate way without returning he wouldn't let it haunt him."
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "She was still disappointed in how that had turned out. Even asking for additional knowledge to make an informed decision, her efforts to learn were being underappreciated. Either that, or the Scorpion had nothing further to divulge. Either in ignorance due to underappreciating knowledge, or due to being protective of that knowledge even if it might be disappointing. She couldn't tell which was true, but her curiousity did not like the situation either way. No matter what, that was all the knowledge she would be getting for this visit apparently.\n\nAt the very least, the Scorpion had an alternative arrangement then, something she could otherwise appreciate. \"A dance opportunity? What.. Exactly are you thinking about here? Sharing insight into connections for dancing? Sharing knowledge of dancing connections? Just dragging me to a place dancing can happen but isn't yet? Something else, to throw me into?\" Her trust was still reduced here, and the uncertainty in the offer was another angle for her unresolved curiousity. After all, the amount not mentioned could be considered the most shady part of the entire offer. Placed right behind not getting the knowledge she was seeking, it was leaving her seeing the lack of answers with enhanced awareness."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Who knew a simple hairpin slip could make a girl so cranky? He exhaled, seeing her obvious distrust and discontent with the situation. Satoshi certainly wasn't fond of this one, but he had to take accountability for the slip-up. Her skepticism was natural, he supposed bringing up dancing wasn't the most fitting makeup for this. \n\n\"While I don't recall throwing you into something, I've been scouting for places where fellow performers and artisans can gather and share exquisite displays of talent and culture. As someone who was curious, I figured I could repay you with that. However, it seems your distaste toward me is abundant, I humbly apologize once more and shall not infest your path with my presence if that is what you wish.\" He spoke more in a formal tone, a sense of separation. \n\n\"Of course, the services of Flowing Designs will still accept you and offer compensation for this misstep, they may even be willing to share in our process of developing such a fine kimono. I've still much to learn from them as well, it can be a lot to take in sometimes.\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "The scorpion was backing off really hard at her simply asking a question, as if her seeking insight was unsatisfactory even in matters of dance. A place gathering performers and artisans, it was a venture worth at least some appreciation. However, the Scorpion was quick to duck out after that, as if fearful of additional questions. It spoke truths hidden behind his mask, that his confidence might only be a fabrication of the mask when it came to appreciating insight. The statement was layered in self-disappointment in being incapable of delivering what she wanted, but there was a sense of honesty in doing so. Like honesty was the difficult challenge, though being a Scorpion might explain that one. He had no idea what to do, was at a loss, and wasn't trying to prove anything anymore. She was someone who hated when people felt implored to do everything for her, her brother did this far too often. This humble shift was then something she could better appreciate.\n\nShe was still left with unanswered questions, but this unfortunately did not seem to be a learning opportunity anymore. \"Distaste? I mean, there is a lot to be uncertain about here, which really is something to be cautious about, but why would I distaste someone who'd been trying to teach me?\" She realized late that reusing the same word made no sense, but it was too late to take that confusion back. \"I know myself, teaching someone can be very hard sometimes, especially when there is stuff to be uncertain about. I still thank you kindly for your efforts to spare wisdom as you have been so far.\" She made sure to bow deeply in respect, befitting of a student to a teacher. \"If that is all you can teach, it is not reason to blame you either, its not like you're actually a teacher of this stuff. Instead, you've just offered what you could out of kindness, that's only another reason to be respectful. There is a lot to be misunderstanding.. Confused here, but you've still done good here.\""
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "Tilting his head, did an opening reveal itself to turn things around? Maybe, maybe not, the question was: Would Satoshi try? Peering through his mask, he had to get a read on the Iuchi who seemed angered. Perhaps the confusion and curiosity to learn had thinned one's temper. \n\n\"I would not claim the honor or responsibility as a teacher for such pursuits, however, I am more versed in the path of an Artisan. If you wish to learn more about Kimonos and clothing I could dabble into the talent more to teach you.\" There was some sincerity in his words. Satoshi lifted his mask, softly smiling at the Unicorn. \n\n\"However, I can probably be a better teacher in actual pursuits. I am a Theatre actor, a painter, a dancer, and I'm currently learning more poetry and storytelling.\" He wasn't trying to brag, but one could find his speech to be arrogant. \"I'm quite passionate about bringing culture to the city, a quest I hope more beyond me are interested in taking up! What do you say? Would you mind joining me at a later time?\""
},
{
"author": "lanie.rubyss",
"message": "As she'd thought, even the Scorpion was admitting to being at their limit for garnishing new wisdoms. Considering he'd been so diligent at furthering the establishment's provisions, she was still a bit confused as to how come his capabilities didn't seem as related to it. There was some confusion there, but she wasn't certain how to phrase an applicable question. Pondering still left a period of silent contemplation as she made an effort anyway, but with no prospective results.\n\nRegardless of what had brought all of that into place, it appeared that there was instead honest value in matters of theatrics, which was then something more viable for consideration. His was a long list of artistic pursuits, very culturally refined. She could recall the last poet she'd spoken with, but no one trying to invest into an assorted selection of distinct options like he had. Dancing was on the list, her own singular interest, though she could admit to herself that acting would not be a terrible alternative either. Maybe that was why he'd tried to look the part of the local staff? It might be a comical idea if true, though it would still have its own disappointment as well, she'd honestly been hoping for results here. Another reason for uncertainty in such questions. Consideration of theatrics was invested enough, even in just dance with a possible side alternative in acting.\n\nShe was still a bit uncertain though, mostly due to recent impressions. \"A later time? So.. Think about it? I guess that might be best. I'll think about it, to figure out what I want to do. Maybe ask a few others some questions too. Bringing culture is a big project, a lot of stuff to figure out I guess. A lot.. More extra things to figure out. Hmm... I guess I shouldn't stress you about it here then. Should get going... Thank you for your.. Demonstration, at least? I guess?\" She bowed there, fumbling together a departure with a graceful bow to conclude the cacophony of uncertain words."
},
{
"author": "coverty",
"message": "One could've fallen asleep in the time it took the Iuchi to reply and decipher what she meant. Satoshi had to prevent his head from swaying side to side in boredom, however, a few thoughts came to mind as the woman spoke up. The issue of her Kimono was still in question, very likely she'd seek help from another. However, that didn't leave him out. \n\n\"Indeed, soon I'll be training to create a few outfits for Theatre, that's why I'm here learning. Next time you see me I'll have some more knowledge under my belt and make you something spectacular and befitting of your needs, Iuchi-san!\" \n\nHe bowed gracefully, allowing the Unicorn to take their leave. Satoshi had mixed feelings and uncertainties, but one thing proved true: Women were weird..."
}
] | 276.5 | 13,746 |
348.636364 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The circumstances that led to Masanori riding down the streets of the Noble's Quarter with soldiers at his back were not those he had anticipated when he arrived in the city. He had been sent to prepare their forces for conflict—a great battle that would either see the city fall to the forces of the Unicorn clan, or be swept off the face of the empire in the attempt. His hope had always been the former, and that the honor guard accompanying him would be one of celebration, the parade of a victorious commander presiding over his conquest. \n\nInstead, his glorious march consisted only of a few bushi and a handful of ashigaru besides. He rode not on the ruin of the Shosuro Palace, but towards the Phoenix embassy, not to proclaim victory over the defeated Scorpion, but to demand justice for the actions of a stupid boy who had turned a sensitive investigation into a near-riot. His duties were to serve the Unicorn clan with distinction, not police the actions of other clan's shugenja, but there he was all the same, his steed bringing him down well-paved avenues with haste enough to shock the handful of samurai his entourage passed by.\n\nThe guards posted outside the Phoenix embassy must have been in for a shock. In a matter of seconds, thirteen horses raced down the streets before them, wheeling around and assembling in formation before the gatehouse. Ten of the riders dismounted, enough ashigaru to form a semi-circle around the entrance, standing to attention at the beckoning on the chui's hand. The samurai who had rode with Masanori remained mounted, as did he, but the silent menace behind their mempo undoubtedly added to the seriousness of the stand-off. \n\n\"What business have you-\"\n\n\"**Silence**.\"\n\nHigh up in his saddle as he was, Masanori's words seemed to boom as loud as the thunder which had earned his ire so, drowning out the demand of the Phoenix ashigaru who dared ask his business. \n\n\"Your ambassador. Fetch him. Now.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The commotion coming up the street had been heard easily from the inner rooms of the embassy. Iemon had already grabbed his daisho, and had been making his way to the door when he realized the rapid hooves he had heard had stopped abruptly in front of the embassy. \n\nHe noted that he was wearing a less formal kimono absently as he opened the door to the outer yard. He took in the situation at a glance. *Sizable force to casually enter a city with. Ashigaru alone outnumber us, and obviously mounted bushi.* \n\n\"You will, I hope, pardon me for fetching myself.\" He recognized the color and mon of the Great Clan... And the same mon he had seen Kazuko wearing at their meeting. \"How may I be of service, Utaku-san?\" He bows, despite the threatening intent of the gathered troops effectively on his doorstep. *Propriety is necessary, of course.* He thinks to himself.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "When another party interjected, Masanori's gazed snapped from the ashigaru to its source, his eyes hard and flinty as he stared at the man. It seemed the suddenness of their appearance had brought the ambassador out of his own accord. At the very least, it would save him time, and keep the Phoenix from wringing their hands while he stood outside their compound with a squad of soldiers. The Utaku dismounted his own steed with all the practiced ease expected of his kin, though even on foot he managed to tower over most of those around him, and the fierce expression he sported undoubtedly made him seem all the larger. \n\n\"You might have been in service hours ago, when one of the shugenja attached to your embassy nearly caused a riot in the Leatherworker's Quarter,\" The words were harsh, and though he tried not to hiss them so disdainfully, the throbbing in his back and head made the task of subduing his rage all the harder, \"The idiot nearly set the whole neighborhood ablaze with lightning. Lightning he aimed at a small, sickly girl too weak to escape a handful of samurai, much less defend herself from them. Lightning that almost *Struck me* In the process.\"\n\nIt was for the better that the duo of guards at the embassy's gate stood between he and the Shiba his venomous words were aimed at. Not for the man's safety, as he had already found satisfaction in striking one Phoenix that day, but to keep Masanori from looming over him like some wicked oni as he continued to air his grievances. \n\n\"It was only by the quick thinking of my magistrate that the hinin did not swarm over him like so many ants, enraged by the senseless killing of one of their own. Is this how the Phoenix conduct themselves? The Phoenix who so boldly declare my clansmen to be heretics, unworthy of practicing their gifts? Were this the first time one of your retainers saw fit to recklessly abuse the kami in my presence, it would be tragedy enough. But I cannot even say that much of them. You ask how you may be of service, Shiba-san? You can do your damned job and start policing your men, before *I* Am forced to do so in your stead.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The man was certainly large, and well-spoken despite his clear anger. *Justifiable anger, no less.* Iemon looked him in the eyes as he spoke, his own face hardening, the normal hints of jollity wilting first to a stern, and then visibly angry expression. With a simple gesture, the two ashigaru between himself and the larger man moved to the side, and Iemon faced him alone. \"What you say happened is truly abhorrent, and the injustice cries to the Heavens themselves. That a shugenja would be so... Irresponsible. So foolish. So...\" His words, for the first time in his recent memory, failed him, as anger of his own bubbled up from within. He shut his eyes, shaking his head lightly to clear it. \"I will engage with this individual in short order, you have my word. The fact that I have had to hear it from you, first, and not from this shugenja, disgusts me. Do me the service of naming them, Utaku-san, and it will be seen to.\"\n\nIn a swift movement, he drops to his knees, and bows, bringing his forehead to the dirt. \"I apologize that such a horrendous thing has occurred, and has been committed by one of my retainers.\" \n\nHe holds the position, waiting until the other man reacts, before rising to question further regarding the other retainer mentioned.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The rage that Masanori felt was palpable. A raw, primal expression of incredulous frustration that cried out to be vented. He had expected enough resistance to warrant such an unbecoming display, vindicated that even if he would been seen as the barbaric plains dweller that some tried to paint his kinsmen as, that tearing into the Phoenix for their arrogance was the *Right* Thing to do. That he could feel justified in his outburst, necessary as it was.\n\nInstead, he received no resistance at all. Though his gaze remained dagger-like as it followed the Shiba down to the ground, there was a small level of disbelief behind his flinty eyes. It was a difficult thing to reconcile with, being so prepared for conflict only to find himself disarmed in the face of a total lack of opposition to his claims. His fist clenched, his sore knuckles tensing as he stared down at the ambassador in his humility, carefully contemplating his next step.\n\n\"Isawa Taisei-san,\" The words eventually left his lips, and he allowed himself the satisfaction of speaking them with the venom he had intended to hurl the Shiba's way, \"I believe that to be his name. If it is not, then I am sure you will have little difficulty spotting him—I struck him hard enough to leave quite a mark, I am sure.\"\n\nIt was not an elegant thing to admit, but they were far beyond elegance at that point. He allowed the fingers that had coiled so powerfully into a fist to slacken, and with them, gestured for the ambassador to rise from his bow of submission.\n\n\"But that will not be enough. Stand, Shiba-san. We have much to discuss and precious little time to do so.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon stood, his face a mask hiding the shame he felt. A layer of dirt clung to his forehead from his abasement, but he paid it little heed. A part of him cried out against having prostrated himself so, but the more logical side contained it, reasoning that he had little reason to doubt the word of the Unicorn, and having borne in mind the things Sanumo had reported to him regarding Taisei's conduct on the mission he had sent, it was not a difficult stretch to imagine carelessness on the young Shugenja's part. Let alone the display of force presented here, and this man's account was impossible for Iemon to question.\n\n\"Indeed, I would imagine we do. Will the girl live?\" The rest of what Masanori wanted to discuss would no doubt be amply forthcoming from the direction this discussion had gone thus far. But this question he dared, to better try and frame the context of both what was to come, and what he must do in turn. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "As the Phoenix rose before him and posed his question, Masanori took a deep, steadying breath, to calm the fires within him such that he could speak with a level of sense. It was particularly hard, given the the means required to see the girl pull through her ordeal.\n\n\"She will. Her survival comes at great personal cost, but she will live to see another day. I would not be half so merciful as I am now had she perished.\"\n\nThe dull throbbing in the back of his head made it just as difficult to array his thoughts as his wrath had, but he soldiered on regardless, his jaw tensing and untensing as if to chew the words before presenting them.\n\n\"You will discipline him for this. This is not a request. He lives now only because my magistrate promised the hinin he would see justice for his actions, and I will not see him be made a liar. In addition, Isawa Taisei-san cannot be allowed to leave these embassy grounds once he has returned: the crowd made it clear that they would meet his presence with violence if he was to be seen in public again, and the underclasses of this city are a very bold sort.\"\n\nIt felt both right and wrong to be dictating the flow of affairs to the leader of another clan's delegation. It was not his place to do so, and yet he could not fault himself for demanding what he did. It was the kinder of the options presented, that things be met with a swift and decisive response before news of the event spread.\n\n\"There will be further consequences in the days to come. When my—when *Utaku-sama* Hears of what has happened, she will see to that. This show of force,\" His hand reached back to gesture towards the assembled Unicorn soldiers, \"Can be considered a mercy. Had I not ridden ahead of her to demand satisfaction myself, your embassy would surely be under siege by nightfall. She is not a forgiving woman.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon bows his gratitude for the news of the girl's wellbeing. \"If there is anything I can provide to help offset the personal cost, you have but to ask, Utaku-san.\"\n\nHe considers the things Masanori lists off to him. \"This is most amenable, I agree, and it would not do to damage the word of your magistrate to the underclasses. It shall be so.\"\n\nThe final statement, however, was not well-received. Iemon's demeanor seems to shift, the passive subservience and sympathetic anger shifting, his eyes suddenly growing steely. \"Perhaps, Utaku-san, it would be wise to allow the Voice of the Unicorn to speak for herself. I will grant, I am perhaps not understanding you correctly, but you are speaking of the same Utaku Kazuko-sama who had graced us with her presence here not too long ago, assuring us of her shared desire for peace and prosperity in this city, would be so flagrant as to respond with greater force than you have already? Would lay siege to an embassy in an Imperial city, rather than attempt to resolve things through the laws the Emperor maintains? Surely, I *Must* Have misunderstood you.\"\n\nIemon glances to the forces surrounding him. \"You have ample justification to respond with anger, as an assault to your person, and to your sensibilities has of course occurred. But to come to *My* Doorstep in such a manner, instead of as a samurai in good standing with the Empire, it makes me wonder, what would have happened here had I questioned your testimony? Would you have pressed with violence, put the embassy to flame, and attempted to rout us from the city?\" Iemon drew himself to his height, maintaining a level gaze at Masanori despite being shorter.\n\n\"Further consequences can of course be discussed, and we will be happy to invite Utaku Kazuko-sama to return here. That will give us an opportunity to see if your impression of her is the correct one.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Relief nearly graced Masanori's features. Nearly.\n\nIt would have been most impressive, had he managed to deal with the fallout of the afternoon's events so soon after his brush with Osano-wo. The girl's life had been saved when it should have been forfeit by every right, the Unicorn's retaliation had been measured by his own restraint, and the Phoenix made to understand just how favored they were by the Fortunes, that things had not been so bad as to see their dearly loved peace shattered by the very kami they claimed to serve. \n\nBut that great victory was denied to him by the same means the city's conquest were: haughty words spoken out of turn. The fire in his blood might have cooled, had the Shiba not suddenly found his own. Instead, his eyes once again burned with barely contained fury as he listened to the Phoenix's rebuke. Only when he deigned to stop speaking did a response come.\n\n\"You misunderstood nothing, *Shiba-san*. Utaku-sama is committed to a long and prosperous peace in this city. But she has the sense to recognize that lasting peace must be enforced with a strong, guiding hand. Had you the arrogance to question my testimony? To continue to shield the irresponsible Isawa beneath your roof, as they called down lightning upon the underclasses, and probed the minds of clan samurai with impunity? She would have rode on you and seen them dragged through the streets to justice—with or without the consent of their guard dogs.\"\n\nIt took everything he had not to snarl the words like the very dogs he meant to compare Iemon to as he made his thoughts on the matter amply clear. \n\n\"Consider it a mercy you decided to listen to reason and accept my testimony, then, Shiba-san. It will be the last mercy you receive from me, as I find my patience with the Phoenix's conduct wearing thin.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon's mouth tightened into a severe line, his right fist curling into a fist at his side. \"I can assure you, reason had nothing to do with my decision, it solely rested on the assumption that you were an honorable samurai.\" The insults to him meant little, but the implication, and doubled down *Assurance* That the very Utaku Kazuko he had met with would have lain siege to the embassy in such a short time after offering apologies and seeking a kinship with the Phoenix was... More than troubling. *Peace with a strong 'guiding' hand is clearly the peace of the grave.* \n\nThe goodwill he had kept for the Unicorn dwindled with the final shot regarding this man's mercy. \"In that case, I *Thank* You for the clarity you have afforded me, on these immediate matters, as well as others. Isawa Taisei shall be dealt with as we have discussed. I take your meaning to be that Isawa Kashikoi-san is the other in my household you refer to? I shall address him as well.\"\n\nIemon's gaze did not leave Masanori. \"I trust, for now, we are done here.\" \n\nTwo things in particular he had learned in this exchange: that the Isawa within the city needed corrected, and the Unicorn were not fit allies in the pursuit of peace. *Their true colors have been shown all too well.* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "There was much and more Masanori wanted to say. Part of him wished that he had not bothered to give the Phoenix the courtesy of forewarning—that the consequences of their arrogance be allowed to consume them without his intervention. But he could not allow himself to stand aside and allow madness to fester unchecked. If the scorn in the eyes of the man before him was the price to be paid in trying to enforce order, then it would simply have to be that way. To sit idly by while there was something to be done made him no better than those he meant to chastise.\n\n\"See to it then, Shiba-san.\"\n\nThe Unicorn had said his peace, and it was clear enough that no further agreement could be reached between the two of them. The Phoenix seemed to desire the last word on matters, and for a time, he allowed that, turning his back on the ambassador and making for his horse. The chui's foot found the stirrups with practiced ease, and as he pulled himself up into the familiar seat of his saddle, he gestured to the ashigaru. With lock-step precision, they returned to the sides of their own steeds, mounting up such that they could depart in the wake of their commander.\n\n\"For now.\"\n\nWith a final, laconic statement befitting his kin's reputation, Masanori cast a final, dark gaze towards the embassy before tugging on Shiori's reins. The mare wheeled around, back in the direction of the Ide residence, and with a swift nudge from her master, began a hurried trot back to whence she came, the other riders following closely behind. \n\nThe day had already been long, but there was still much to settle, and somehow, that which was to come promised to be even less pleasant than the ordeals before it. \n\n|| \n\n``` Scene ```"
}
] | 380 | 3,835 |
208.5 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Having been invited by Asako Sanumo for a tour of the Noble Quarter, Asako Kita had gotten ready for the day in her light orange kimono decorated with clusters of pink cherry blossoms surrounding the Phoenix and Asako mons. Her long, dark hair was pulled back into its customary ponytail, having yet to escape as was also customary. \nShe had taken upon herself to explore some of the city but had yet to spend much time around the various embassies of the Noble Quarter themselves. Curious to see what the Karo would care to share with her as they went, she waited in the Phoenix embassy garden enjoying the spring sunshine.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Kita did not have to wait for long before being joined by the Karo. He arrived in a simple moss green kimono with only the Phoenix mon visible on its front. There was no pattern or decoration; only uniform coloration. His hair was bound back from his face with a length of cord worn like a circlet.\n\nHe bowed to an appropriate depth, « Good morning, Asako Kita-san. I trust now is still a suitable time for our trip? » It wouldn't be the worst thing if she'd had to cancel, but wasted time was still wasted time.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"A good morning to you as well, Asako Sanumo-sama.\"\nKita turned her attention from the garden bed she had been surveying and bowed in return, a little lower than his, as expected. She appeared to be ready to start their walk his discretion, not wanting to rush him if there were things he wished to discuss prior to their departure.\n\n\"Yes, now is quite suitable. Thank you for your time. I'm sure I will find it valuable and hope that you are able to do the same, even if it is only to stretch your eyes and legs.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He was enough of a professional not to outright smile at her quip, but his eyes did soften in mild mirth. « Were all the world's wisdom to be found in one's office, the Kami Shiba would not have been nearly as well-travelled. And please, you need never thank me for supporting our own. Let us away. » He gestured towards the gate and began walking, assuming she would follow suit. It wasn't until they had gone well past the ashigaru manning said gate that he spoke up again.\n\n« Have you been settling in well? » The question was deceptively simple and could have been followed up with any number of clarifiers or leading remarks, but he felt that how she chose to respond would reveal a lot about what was at the forefront of her mind.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "She followed the his lead out the gate and into the Noble Quarter of the city. At his question, she contemplated before giving her response.\n\n\"Yes, I have been able to settle in satisfactorily, and start work on my assignments. Most of my time so far has been spent at the embassy, probably as expected, but I've been able to venture out a time or two into the city. Notably for the appointment with the imperial secretary.\"\n\nShe seemed overall genuinely at ease as she answered, although the mention of her visit to city hall brought with it a sense of discomfort.\n\n\"I've been able to meet with a few of our fellow clansmen and make some connections that will hopefully prove useful in the future. I will say I'm surprised at the number of other recent arrivals. I'm sure we are all acclimating in our own way. The Isawa artist came by the library and helped me catalogue, as well as a few others that stopped by.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo had set a comfortable path through this district that he knew very well and kept to it as she spoke. « You are not wrong to think the number of newcomers anomalous; I thank the Fortunes for their arrival, yours included, for that very reason. »\n\nThey briefly slowed not far from a nearby three story structure with very little surrounding it on the rest of its open, near-desolate plot. « The Dragon make their home here. They have been exceedingly quiet in recent months, though I'm sure they will emerge when they see fit. »\n\nHe snapped back to the previous topic as they continued on. « I'm very happy to see you integrating well among our fellows. The ties that bind often comprise the net that catches us when we fall. » He'd left the topic of her assignment alone for now.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita turned to take in the view of the neighboring embassy, the lone structure of the Dragon's home here a contrast to some of the other ornate architecture she had seen around. \n\"So, they are secluded, even within the city... I have not encountered any of the Dragon yet, but that would be reasonable then. From what I have studied, they seem to act when they see the time is right.\"\n\nShe cast a brief glace at Sanumo as they readied to move on,\n\"It has been good to make acquaintances with the other Phoenix. I agree, it is good to know who we can rely on and has helped me feel more at home. I intend to try to meet as many of them as I can. Knowing the strengths at our disposal is also advantageous.\"\n\nLeft unsaid was her attempt to recognize potential liabilities of those who's actions would reflect on the embassy and clan as well. She didn't dwell on the thought for the moment, but added,\n\"Coming from a place we all had the same primary work, where most would never dream of stepping beyond their lot in life, it has been enjoyable seeing so many people's different passions and skills.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« It has definitely been eye opening for me as well, having come all this way from Yogen Province. There are many wonders to be seen so far from home. » It gave him pause thinking about his parents so far away and how different life must be for them right now.\n\nHis momentary contemplations were broken by the sight of the next embassy. « This-» he gestured at a large, dome-roofed structure surrounded by yurts, «- is the Ide Residence, home to the Unicorn delegation. » It was hard to get a good view of much of the grounds, if only because they were up a slope from here, much of the exoticism of the clan hidden from prying eyes.\n\n« Wonders like that, for example. I might have gone my whole life without witnessing this, had the Fortunes kept me away. » He shook his head, as if dispelling the thought.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita's expression softened at the mention of home, while turning her attention to the span of the Unicorn's residence. She shook her head slowly in wonder at the sight trailing off up the slope.\n\n\"Yes, I had only read of such things before, it has been something indeed to see them\nIn person.\"\n\n\"I will admit, being here in Ryoko Owari Toshi feels entirely unfamiliar at the same time the same as I've always known-the books, and paperwork, the stone walls of our embassy.\"\n\nShe was silent for a short while, contemplating, before asking,\n\"If I may ask, how long have you been assigned here? Do you have family here or are they all back in Yogen Province?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« There is definitely something to be said for lived experience over secondhand accounts. » he nodded along with her words.\n\nThe quiet that she allowed to settle was welcome; Sanumo didn't expect that they would maintain a lively banter the whole time. When the silence was dispelled, her questions surprised him.\n\n« ...Less than a half year. I am a relatively new fixture, all things told. And I am alone, Asako Kita-san. My family remain, last I heard, back home. » This was not a topic that he had expected, nor one he was overly keen on exploring. That didn't change that it was now upon them. « I called in quite a sum of favors to escape a dark fate. »\n\nIn the short time Kita had known the Karo, he'd borne a slightly worn appearance, as though he did not sleep as much as he should or was prone to melancholy. Normally it was a background detail; something that the alertness of his gaze and the insightful nature of his words kept at bay.\n\nIn this moment, it had come to the forefront. With rote motions and a hollow cast to his explanations, he drew her attention to the Crane embassy as they passed, it's exterior dojo and immaculately manicured garden on full display.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "The response he provided initially was not different than she expected; he had been here some time longer than herself but not long in the grand scheme of things. Which made sense as young as he seemed to be, although the rest of his answer maybe explained the somewhat haggard appearance he seemed to fight. She raised an eyebrow, curious.\nIt was clear from tone of his response though, although not denying her a reply, that it was not a welcome line of questioning. She didn't press further, only mentioning by way of explanation,\n\n\"I see, I have been curious what has led those of our clansmen here that I've met. Each one of us is here for their own reasons.\"\n\nShe inclined her head briefly his direction in way of thanks and followed his change of topics as they stopped in front of the Crane Embassy. The manicured garden and covered walkways that surrounded the embassy were a contrast to their previous stop. Kita hesitated at the thoughts brought to mind a question she had been meaning to clarify.\n\n\"I don't mean to get distracted too far into business-after meeting Isawa Kashikoi-san, and our resulting conversation, I did want to ask; what are the proper steps to request a meeting with representatives of the other clans as we proceed with the Steel Talons project? I have not had much experience in inter-clan protocol, especially those that would be specific to the dynamics here.\"\n\nShe spread her hands in an apologetic manner, but her expression remained placid, not so much showing concern of a potential mis-step as an interest in learning the correct way.\n\n ||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*Ah, good. We won't have to dwell on that longer than necessary. The Fortunes' blessings are sometimes small, but always impactful.*\n\n« Personally, I prefer to send a meticulously compiled letter to whomever I need to meet with. If you do not have a specific person in mind, you can always address the letter more broadly or otherwise indicate that you need to be guided to the correct representative. »\n\nHe was regularly grateful for Kita's eagerness to serve and better herself. It was rare to have a newcomer that he felt so confident he could rely on, at least for now.\n\nA thought occurred to him. « In this case, however, I would recommend you arrange a meeting somewhere outside of both of our embassies. The Crane have extended an invitation to host Shiba-sama, but he has been too busy to accept. It could reflect poorly on us if you were to visit the embassy before he does. »\n\nAt this point, they passed the eggshell-colored walls of the Lion embassy. Every pore oozed tradition, from the many-candled shrine to their ancestors to the twin Lion statues that framed the entrance. It was severe, unyielding, and imposing... And also a place Sanumo found held fond memories of his time in the city.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"My letter-writing skills will be getting some additional practice then. Arranging a meeting elsewhere, that should easily be requested.\"\n\n*Hopefully the Ambassador's pending visit will not cause any unnecessary complications. I suppose there's only one way to see...*\n\nShe let the thought trail off to be answered at a future time. \n\nThe Lion embassy that now stood before them met the expectations one would have with any knowledge of the clan. The adherence to tradition and rigidity visible even from the exterior. \n\n\"I have only met one Lion here so far,\"\nKita admitted, showing a bit of hesitancy before sharing the story.\n\"I was in the Market District, past time for a meal, and was invited by a Lion Samurai-ko to join her for lunch. I did not put together until we were seated that it was their ambassador.\n\"It seems that she prefers to travel unrecognized through the city, although any who have made her aquaintance would find her unmistakable. I believe, hopefully, beyond the initial shock she dealt me, that I did not do anything disrespectful. She at least has not demanded my head from Ambassador Shiba-sama.\"\n\nA shadow of the dismay she had felt crossed her face, although she was able to see a certain humor in the situation now. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Ah, yes. This is not the first time that Kitsu Himiko-sama has done something of this sort. I trust that you handled yourself well enough. Had you not, I don't doubt that they would have notified us promptly. Our local Lions have shown themselves to be serious, intense people. Be at peace.\"\n\nThe anxiety of treading on uncertain ground was no stranger to him. Hers would fade with time as the bizarre nature of the city began to unfold to her senses. Or, at least, that was what had happened to Sanumo.\n\nIn short order, they had passed both the Mantis and Crab embassies ||I couldn't find a description of the Mantis one, so I'm skipping straight to Crab||. The treacherous 'samurai' of the South had a slightly U-shaped, four-story structure that seemed more utilitarian than anything else. Four supplemental buildings littered the grounds, each even duller than the last as maintaining appearances had clearly been the last thing on their minds.\n\nSoft enough to be heard ideally by just the two of them, he spoke. \"The placement of our embassy was fortunate indeed.\" In fact, someone paying close attention would have noted that the Phoenix embassy was farther from this one than any other they had passed.\n\nA deniable insult, made clear in the context of recent events.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Past the Lion's home, they had moved through the north edge of the district in cordial silence. Kita was content enjoying the warmth of the sunshine until the view of the Mantis embassy set her thoughts a whirl again. They hadn't stopped their tour there, but continued on to where Sanumo mentioned the fortunate placement of their own embassy in an undertone that shook her from her train of thought. \n\nShe looked from the non-descript buildings back to Sanumo, matching his volume, \n\"Certainly... I understand there was a request to assist with the problems in the local countryside. Have they made any other attempt to reach out?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He shook his head, loose strands of hair swishing as he did. \"No. Shiba-sama had a long discussion with me in which he resolved to help-\" *Showing a reckless trust of the Crab* \"-, but we have not received any related communications since their initial request. Troubling, to say the least.\"\n\nThey were on a more-or-less direct path to their own embassy now, but there was still the capstone of their tour: The Shosuro Palace. Situated at the top of a hill, it was a monument to simplistic grandiosity, a huge building that made any other in the district seem feeble in comparison. No small surprise that it had seen a number of winter courts throughout its history.\n\n\"There\" He pointed \"Is the seat from which the Scorpion survey all that was once theirs. I can only imagine the sorts of plotting that goes on behind those walls.\"\n\nThere was no world in which the Scorpion failed to put up some form of fight to reclaim Ryoko Owari Toshi. He only hoped that the Phoenix could steer it towards a bloodless, or at least blood-minimal, end.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "She narrowed her eyes briefly at the concern he expressed about the Crab's subsequent silence. Something to be aware of, but nothing that worrying about would change. \n\nRounding a corner on a path back to the far side of the district, the palace in the center of the Noble Quarter they had been circling stood in front of them. \n\n\"Shosuro Palace is the second largest building in the city of Ryoko Owari Toshi, second only to the Temple of Daikoku. It sits as the highest point in the city as well.\"\nShe recited, her gaze following where he pointed. \n\n\"It's rumored to have a maze of hidden rooms and trick doors. The kind of place I would have loved to explore as a child, maybe even now if propriety allowed.\" \n\nThe corner of her mouth quirked up at the thought. Although the thought of running into any of the residents removed it from her expression just a quickly.\n\n\"Plotting... Yes. I'm sure we only see the very fringes of it. Better still, I suppose, to be on one side than another.\" \n\nIt was an odd feeling to think of working *With* The Scorpion, but she would trust the direction the Phoenix leaders here had set, with eyes open. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The Karo raised an eyebrow at her assertion that she would have liked to explore such a labyrinthine structure in her youth. \"While I don't doubt that you'd have found many curiosities within, there are numerous safer discoveries to be made elsewhere. Not that I don't understand the allure.\" He added as an afterthought.\n\n\"It is a peculiar thing working alongside such an unknowable force, but we are in peculiar times.\"\n\nIt would not be long before they arrived back at their own embassy, Sanumo's feet treading the ever more familiar path between the Scorpion and Phoenix strongholds.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "*Oh, that did came out aloud...* Kita thought to her chagrin at his subtle redirection.\n\n\"Of course, you are correct. Just a fanciful thought. Pay it no mind.\"\n\nShe replied with a flutter of her hand, as if dismissing the thought, which in turn served to bring back the question that had been on her mind since they had passed the Unicorn's holdings. \n\nThe Karo had directed her to take charge of the Steel Talons project. While he had stated that he would not micro manage, she had heard that she needed to be able to figure it out on her own. The dam of pride that had kept her from the topic finally gave way as were once again within their own walls.\n\n\"There are ones here that take in, and sponsor, ronin? And the rest of the clans here-accept it? I don't understand.\nThe unicorn, they have employed a ronin, the ronin...\"\nShe let the sentence fall incomplete, her distaste apparent. \n\n\"You were aware of that, surely, when you made the suggestion to assign the tournament champions as the initial Steel Talons? The Scorpions are, fine. It's just that, including ronin, it won't do.\"\n\nHer voice had started to trail off, hesitant to question him, but she finished her statement with a conviction she may or may not have quite felt.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He'd always found a good walk to be a suitable way to clear his mind, this one having been no different. Despite some troublesome topics along the route, nothing had been confrontational - only delicate to talk around - and had brought about a clarity that he suddenly had cause to wield.\n\nKita's declaration gave him pause and he fully stopped in his tracks, the other samurai likely making it a couple more steps before realizing.\n\nHe pursed his lips briefly, his brow knitting together slightly. \"Yes, Asako Kita-san. There are other clans that are willing to work with ronin and, in some cases, sponsor them to perform tasks above their station. Tasks such as, just to name one, *Dueling our Ambassador on the Unicorn's behalf.*\" He said this with moderate exasperation, but no real venom.\n\n\"Even in the face of this fact, Shiba-sama was by no means unclear when he told me he thought ronin membership would be a boon to this project. Knowing that, are you still so keen to hold that stance?\"\n\nKita had yet to strike Sanumo as unreasonable, but he also hadn't expected **This** From her. Now, however, it fell to him to get to the bottom of whatever it was.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "The attention she was giving to the subject at hand had quite distracted her from following the Karo's lead as their walk had continued inside their gates. She only realized that he had stopped dead in his tracks when she heard him speaking from several steps behind her. She whirled around to face his exasperation head on. She watched him as he gave his explanation, her eyes wide. As he finished with the query she dropped her eyes to the ground beside him, but held her ground.\n\n\"I mean no disrespect to you or Shiba lemon-sama. And i understand the purpose of extending good will through this project, it's just...\"\n\nShe fell silent, considering. No - bringing up her personal feelings would not be helpful here, and alternatively would likely only serve to cloud the issue. She looked back up, her expression passive, and spoke only to the facts,\n\n \"The Second Secretary of the Ministries of Licenses and Taxation, Otomo Aoi-sama will not approve the Steel Talons to proceed with any ronin involved, as champion or competitor. Membership must be given to clan samurai only.\"\n\nShe didn't pause for him to reply before adding,\n\n\"I believe the titles can still be used as the intended boon to further our other efforts, maybe not quite in the same manner you and Shiba-sama had discussed.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "His expression softened as it became clear that this was an obstruction from without and **Not** An obstruction from within. \"Ah. That does represent a bit of a problem, doesn't it?\" He chuckled mirthlessly.\n\n*Of course this couldn't have simply gone through without a fuss.*\n\n\"The effectiveness of this project is only improved by having ronin able to be involved, not to mention that it could look spiteful or cowardly of Shiba-sama to disallow them after his recent defeat - at least to those in the know.\"\n\n\"So what are you proposing, Kita-san? That we accept their offer as-is and try to change their mind later? I'm sure the Unicorn, and any other clan with an eligible ronin, would be willing to at least consider backing us in a bid to force the point - if we chose to do so now, rather than later.\"\n\nIt appeared that they could settle for a respectable victory with no fight or start applying pressure and aim for a grander success. Sanumo certainly knew what he was leaning towards, but wasn't above being persuaded otherwise.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Having been braced for the possibility of a sharp response, Kita was dumbfounded when he started chuckling instead. Granted, it was not amused, but it also wasn't directed at her. Her eyes narrowed at the suggestion of overriding the second secretary's demands. The thought of contradicting the Otomo woman did not displease her at all. If the others supported their original request...\n\n\"That would work. That would work?\"\n\nShe rephrased the second time as a question, her expression becoming quizzical, \n\n\"Forcing the matter with the support of other clans for our proposal? If that can happen, and would give us greater gains, then that should be the goal. What would we need to do?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He could feel the tone of the conversation shift, the waters of his mind adjusting to focus on the potential, rather than the present reality.\n\n\"I cannot guarantee success, but such a thing is certainly **Possible**, yes.\" He folded his arms and looked off to one side at the sky, as though perhaps the right path could be glimpsed there. \"It's all about establishing incentive, either positive reasons for them to change their stance or negative repercussions to make it not worth their time to dig in.\"\n\n*Assuming you don't just go over their head to someone of higher standing, though that brings its own concerns.*\n\nHe shifted his gaze down from the heavens and back to her. \"If I were you, I would first seek to meet with whichever clans have ronin that would benefit from this being pushed through. Establishing common cause will help you determine the resources and tools at your disposal and give you allies with which to wield them.\"\n\n\"If external support proves inadequate, we can then consider more nuanced avenues.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "As the Karo explained further about their options, Kita's glance followed his skyward, unsure if he was looking for something in particular, then returned her focus to him once understanding that he was looking for something as elusive as *Potential*.\nHer thoughts hummed along as well, adding to the mental checklists as he spoke.\n\n*Advocating for ronin, who would have thought.. But if this works out, it may serve its purpose even more than we originally anticipated*\nThe corner of her mouth tucked up in a wry grin. He looked back to her at the point of his suggestion, and she nodded,\n\n\"It sounds simple enough, establish a common cause and gain support, then present our unified case. I'm sure it may not be quite so straightforward when it comes to the implementation, but one can always hope. Although, I am curious what 'nuanced avenues' might consist of?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Gossip and rumors, digging up evidence of wrongdoing by Otomo-sama - should it exist, attempting to get a samurai higher in the pecking order to overrule them, and the like.\" He'd tallied them off on his fingers as he went. \"The sorts of methods that require an especially detailed approach.\"\n\n\"I don't relish these ideas, especially as this Imperial hasn't made a habit of being a thorn in our side, but they're feasible tactics nonetheless.\" He shrugged.\n\nNothing Sanumo had said was strictly illegal, but the matter-of-fact way in which he discussed it - albeit with some reservations, could potentially come across as unnerving. The young Karo had been thrust halfway across the empire into one of the largest urban centers; the cost of failure being getting dragged back so that he could wither away in mediocrity.\n\nHe'd had to play the field, as it were, to get out of there - and he'd continue to play it if that's what it took to stay in a position where he could make a meaningful difference.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "It wasn't like she expected a much different answer at this point. It seemed like bribery and coercion were standard fare here. Again she hoped that, the same as he, it wouldn't come to that. But eventually she may have to be involved in such measures. The fact that he had rattled them off quite readily with accompanying tallies made her believe he had either given this thought, or had first hand experience. She wasn't about to ask...\n\n\"You know the persons in question that I would need to meet with presumably, are there particular things I could appeal to that would help smooth the conversation? Or, likely more important, things to be avoided?\"\n\nShe changed the subject back, this time seeming much more at ease with the topic than at first, settling into the idea.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "After briefly inquiring as to the results of the Crane's tournament, and thus who she would need to appeal to, Sanumo tried to shed some light on things.\n\n\"So the Scorpion, Mantis, and Unicorn stand to gain the most immediately, with the latter two having the highest stakes insofar as ronin are concerned. For the Scorpion, I would entreat Bayushi Tomura-san. I've rarely had the pleasure of speaking with him, but you'll set things off on a good foot if you gift him a story - a tragedy of some sort. He prattled on about those quite affectionately once in my company.\"\n\n\"For the Mantis, I would urge you to speak with Moshi Kana-san. I suspect she'll warm to the idea if you emphasize that the alternative is the city quietly disregarding the successes of these wave men.\" The memory of their recent conversation sat fresh in his mind, the passion she'd had at the thought of not getting her own due wouldn't soon be forgotten. \"She may still be recovering from some injuries she suffered. You would do well to be mindful of them without needling her.\"\n\n\"And with the Unicorn... Dealing with Ambassador Utaku Kazuko-sama is always a tricky prospect. She is quick to anger and slow to settle; very volatile - but she is possessed of strong character. I would write ahead and see if there is a delegate she'd like you to meet with on this issue. If the Ambassador sees to the meeting herself, be as careful, yet direct as you can be. Recent events being what they are, she will have a critical eye for any perceived insults or slip-ups.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita listened intently to Sanumo's suggestions, fingers twitching as if taking mental notes. This would help nicely. Of course, the Unicorn sounded like the most challenging. She would save that conversation for last and see what other support might fall into place before that. \n\nAn amused look crossed her face at the mention of Tomura.\n\"Yes, I have met Bayushi Tomura-san. At the bookshop. We had quite an interesting conversation. I agree, a story would please him, especially one of a certain sensational sort.\"\n\nWith information in hand, she seemed to fully register now their presence back within their own embassy. The morning had passed and the sun had risen high overhead. She snapped her fan over her face to hide her sheepish look.\n\n\"Oh, I am sorry Asako-sama. I have taken our pleasant tour and turned it into work. I had thought I could figure it out on my own, but thank you for humoring me, and for the advice.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"You needn't ever apologize for diligence, Kita-san. All it means is that this morning served its intended purpose - and then some.\" He bowed slightly deeper than he strictly needed to, so as to demonstrate his approval.\n\n\"Should the situation become... Further entangled, you know how to reach me. May the Fortunes ferry your words to sympathetic ears.\" With that, he wordlessly dismissed the two of them, turning on his heel and beginning to return to his office to assess his workload.\n\n||"
}
] | 203.5 | 6,255 |
230.842105 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "From the moment Asako Kida walked through the gates of Ryoko Owari she held her head a little higher, expression relaxing, even in the midst of the unfamiliar bustle of this city. Here everyone was a stranger with no knowledge of her. A fresh start. \n\nShe made her way to the embassy. The large structure reminded her more of home than she cared to admit at the moment. With a brief glance and smile at the modest library structure, she paused for a moment at the temple shrines, saying a prayer to steel herself before approaching the waiting ashigaru. She presented her papers, \"Asako Kita, arrived from Michita Yasumi. I am here to see the ambassador. I have a some requested items.\" She motioned to the satchel hanging over her shoulder. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The ashigaru scanned her papers and seemed satisfied with their validity. « Welcome to the embassy, samurai-sama. Please follow me to a meeting room and I will make sure the ambassador knows of your arrival. »\n\nIn short order, the ashigaru showed the way to a modest meeting room decorated with depictions of various nature scenes. Contrasted with the darker coloration of much of the rest of the space, the artwork delivered a splash of color and drew attention to itself.\n\nIt was not long after her arrival that she was joined - albeit by the Karo. A servant opened the door and Sanumo bowed in greeting just before stepping inside. The man was surprisingly young to be a Karo, but his tired, if sharp-eyed, countenance told of his capability (or at least his persistence). He wore a simple, earth-colored kimono with the Phoenix mon on full display.\n\n« Greetings, Asako Kita-san. I am Asako Sanumo, Karo to the Ambassador. » he closed the distance and sat himself alongside the table. « Tea and Shiba Iemon-sama should both arrive shortly. »\n\nHe seemed to be all business - at least for now.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "An elderly servant rapped gently on the door, carrying a small tray with a tea pot and three cups, setting them quickly on the table and then retreating, pausing only long enough upon entering and exiting to bow respectfully. \n\nAs promised, Iemon was quick to arrive afterwards, correcting his pace to slow his eagerness to see what their latest guest had brought with them. He had written requesting copies of some staple texts from the Asako Library, leaving it to their discretion as to which works to send and his own gestures of appreciation for their thoughtfulness. He smoothed his ambassadorial kimono, carefully emblazoned with the Phoenix Mon, before gently knocking and entering, bowing to both Sanumo and the newcomer. \n\n\"Welcome, Asako Kita-san, to Ryoko Owari Toshi. Your presence is a welcome one. I hope your travels were not too arduous?\" He asks, taking his seat and pouring for the other two samurai, his tone light and friendly. \"If you have need of something more fortifying than tea, please feel free to ask, it is no imposition at all.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Asako Sotetsu arrived to Ryoko Owari dusty and tired. Despite the weariness of the journey, he marveled at the size of the city as he wound through the streets to the Phoenix Clan embassy. He dispelled his doubts, dusting himself off as he approached the stone steps leading up to the embassy itself. Before the ambassador, he would need a clear, open mind. He briefly wished he had brought a spare kimono with him on the long journey south. His kimono was worn thin, the Phoenix mon faded from weather and wear.\n\nBefore the ashigaru at the gate, Sotetsu presented his papers, giving a slight nod of greeting. \"I am Asako Sotetsu, from Kyuden Asako. My lord has assigned me to the embassy. Here is my letter of introduction.\" After handing the papers over, he rested a hand on the hilt of his unremarkable katana, assessing the defenses of the embassy as he waited. Had this embassy seen battle? Would the ambassador have a need for his blade? His lord had told him close to nothing about his assignment, save that bushi were needed in the city. He briefly admired the temple and library surrounding the embassy itself. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita bowed respectfully to Asako Sanumo as he entered the room, and deeper still to Ambassador lemon.\n\"Thank you Ambassador-sama, Asako Sanumo-sama, for the welcome. It is a great pleasure to meet you both. The journey was long, but not unpleasant. Tea is more than sufficient.\"\n\nShe reached into the satchel hanging over her shoulder and pulled out a folded letter along with a silk bag, containing a gilded twig with enamel blooms along the length. The letter would be a response to the official request from the library curator for copies of library texts. She offered both to the ambassador, ready for the polite refusals of her gift.\n\nAfter the items were accepted, she unslung the satchel, smoothed her light orange kimono, sprinkled with embroidered cherry blossoms around the Phoenix mon, and set the bag gently into her lap as she took her place at the table. The contents of the bag clinked gently as they settled. She took the tea in hand after the ambassador had drank and took an appreciative sip. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo would have replied to Kira's expression of gratitude, but found himself distracted. As the exchange of items and gifts was occurring, a servant slowly opened the door partway and caught the Karo's attention. Excusing himself, he rose, approached to the door, and began figuring out what was going on. Snippets could be overheard reasonably well.\n\n« What is the meaning of this? »\n\n« Another one? An Asako, you said? »\n\n« See them through to this room post-haste. The Ambassador's time is not to be wasted. »\n\nSanumo soon returned to his place at the table.\n\n-\n\n*Meanwhile, at the gate...*\n\nAfter making his purpose known to the ashigaru, Sotetsu faced a brief wait before an elderly man - clearly a servant of the embassy - approached at the fastest pace that his aged frame could muster.\n\n« Samurai-sama. » he bowed, grimacing slightly at the pain it elicited from his joints. « The Karo insists that you join him and the Ambassador immediately. If you will, follow me. »\n\nIt was not long before Sotetsu was admitted into the underway meeting between the other three samurai, the servant clearing his throat and briefly introducing Sotetsu to the room before admitting him within and shutting the door behind the samurai.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon's polite refusals we're quickly offered, following form, and accepted the gifts finally with a grateful bow. He sipped his own tea as he considered the texts thoughtfully. \"This will make a most welcome addition to our library here at the embassy. In truth, the speed at which my request was answered was a pleasant surprise to say the least! We are humbled by the services of the Asako Library.\" He said, concluding his bow, just in time to notice the sudden arrival of the ushered in newcomer. \n\n\"Ah, another new face arrives in this fair city. Welcome, please join us, we were just enjoying some tea.\" He offers quickly, his voice just loud enough to make it clear to the servants outside to provide an additional cup for the latest addition to the meeting.\n\n\"Did I hear correctly, another Asako to join our ranks?\" He eyed the man appraisingly. Thus far, Sanumo and Kita seemed the more traditional Asako, but this man carried himself as a proper bushi. *How intriguing.* He thought to himself.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Sotetsu nodded and followed the embassy servant up the steps, keeping up with his hurried pace, following him through the entrance and through the door into the meeting room. He glanced at the nature paintings on the wall briefly, admiring the handiwork, then stepped in and bowed deeply to the three guests in the room after the servant had introduced him. \"Pardon my interruption, and thank you for swiftly accepting my invitation swiftly.\" He looked to the three guests, and his eyes glimmered with faint recognition upon seeing the woman with the cherry blossom kimono. Hadn't he seen her on the road on the way here once or twice?\n\n\"Thank you, Ambassador Shiba-sama,\" Sotetsu said once he was invited forward. He gave another bow and moved with lithe steps to the meeting table. He sat quickly, perhaps a bit too quickly, and suddenly felt small in this room, here before great members of his clan, in this beautiful meeting room. He looked down to the table, noticing the books before the Ambassador. \"Please forgive me, I bring no gifts to present today, but humbly offer my swords in your service.\" His daisho stand had been left at the entrance of the embassy, in a bag entrusted to a servant, so instead Sotetsu placed his katana, sheathed, upon the table, bowing. In his mind, he felt foolish and childish, and scolded himself for arriving in ignorance. It would have been wiser to learn more of the ambassador before his arrival. But above his own feeling of ignorance arose a slight worry. *Shouldn't I have surrendered my swords to enter the embassy?* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "At the ambassadors approval Asako Kita had presented the 3 scroll cases. Each wrapped and tied in a scrap of waxed cloth. \"For safe keeping\" Kita noted. \"I am pleased to be able to deliver these so promptly. As requested, Lessons of the Seven Great Fortunes, Almanac of Weather Patterns in the Northern Climes (1100-1130), and one I copied personally- Hantei: Histories of the Imperial Family\" She named off each title as she unwrapped and laid them out on the table between them, tucking the wrappings back into her satchel. At the mention of the last a slight look of pride crossed her face before she carefully recovered her composure. \"After you have reviewed and found them to meet your approval, I would be happy to deliver them personally to the curator here. I will admit, my curiosity would be satiated to see the collection here, and any volume that may not have been collected to the great library as yet.\"\n\nAt the arrival of the additional guest, Asako Kita regards the newcomer with a surprised look of recognition. He was a little more worn and dusty than the last time she had seen him, but it was in fact the same samurai she had seen from across the taverns the last few stops of her travels. \"Asako Sotetsu-San?, I am pleased to see you again and make your acquaintance. I apologize, I did not realize your destination was the same as my own as our paths crossed briefly along the way.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Sotestu politely inclined is head at the table to Kita. \"It is good to see you again as well, Asako Kita-san. We have both made long journeys together to Ryoko Owari Toshi, and I am glad for your company again. I too was unaware this would be your destination. Have you come from Kanjiro Library? I come from Kyuden Asako. I hope we have the opportunity to work together here for our clan.\" Asako Kita had clearly come better prepared than he had, and was more presentable before the Ambassador and his Karo. Sotetsu pondered her words regarding the collection, curious if the librarians here had curated any texts or books of the city's history, a blank spot in his knowledge.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The tomes delivered from the Asako library were impressive indeed, though the one on Imperial histories was of particular interest to Sanumo. He produced his fan and snapped it open to cover a burgeoning smile of appreciation.\n\n*That the Asako Library would trust us with safeguarding these texts speaks volumes on how we are perceived back home.*\n\nWhile the two Asako were catching up, Sanumo took the opportunity to lean closer to Iemon and whisper.\n\n\n\nHe snapped his fan shut, using the noise to garner attention. « While we make many roads of our own, the only ones that truly matter are the ones that destiny sets us upon. It is a pleasure to have you both join us on our path. »\n\n*Even if one of you appears to have brought the path with you.* The edge of his mouth turned upwards at his dry, internal musing.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nodded, allowing a small quirk of a smile of both relief and amusement to cross his face. Turning first to the scholar, he offered a low bow from his seat. \"You and the Asako Library do us a great honor, and my words of gratitude seem inadequate in the face of such a gift. Regrettably, I do not think we have an official curator here for our small collection, at least,\" He pauses, looking up at her, \"...Unless your duties require that you return to the Library once our business has concluded, I would like to write to your lord and request your assignment here to fulfill such a task, if you are agreeable to it.\"\n\nHe turned then to the warrior, his face serious. \"Your offer is a bold one, and one that shows a desire to serve that we have much need of in this city. Too much have we taken for granted, and that has cost us dearly. You will pardon, I hope, that I dispense with the formality of refusing such a gift, and instead accept it outright.\" He paused, considering their needs. \"Asako Sanumo-san has made a minor change in policy for the good of our Clan locally, in that any of our Shugenja that depart our Embassy grounds must be accompanied by a Yojimbo. I will assign you and your katana to Isawa Noboru-san for the duration of his stay here. His investigation into the practice of meishodo comes at the behest of the Elemental Council themselves. He must be able to move as freely and securely as possible in order to give such a matter the due diligence it deserves. What say you to this?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Sotetsu noticed, for the first time, the poise, grace, and sincere behavior of the ambassador. The man was clearly a trained warrior, and carried himself with an ease that only came with years of martial training. He was younger than Sotetsu expected. \n\nSotetsu bowed politely and immediately upon the ambassador's suggestion. \"Of course, Shiba Iemon-sama. I would be honored to serve as Isawa Noburo-san's yojimbo. I have had the honor to serve in my family as a yojimbo before, so I hope my experience with the task will prove useful.\" As he straightened from his bow, Sotetsu's hand reached for his katana. The sheath of the blade was unremarkable, not even distinguishable as a Phoenix sword. He soundlessly slipped it into his obi. \"I have heard of the practice of meishodo. It is a Unicorn tradition, yes? Very dangerous for the kami, as I understand.\"\n\nIn truth, Sotetsu had little knowledge of meishodo, save what he had heard at Kyuden Asako, that meishodo talismans trapped kami against their will. If the Elemental Council wished to investigate the matter, the clan and its samurai would have to do their best to follow orders. \"If I may be permitted, I would say that Karo Asako Sanumo-sama's policy suggestion is wise. We are far from home in Ryoko Owari, and protecting our clan shugenja should be a priority.\" Sotetsu briefly pondered whether Asako Sanumo was connected or directly served the Elemental Council, but decided not to ask.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "A satisfied smile settled on Asako Kita's face. She quickly bowed her head towards the ambassador in response, \"As you wish, Shiba lemon-sama. I am certain there are all the official requests and approvals to be made, but my assignment here had no determined deadline. It would be my honor to take on such duties with my lords approval, and any other you have need of.\"\n\nKita looked from the ambassador to each of the other Asakos, letting her eyes linger on Sotetsu's katana. \"I will ask, in light of the mentioned investigations and protection for those involved, and as newcomers here-what is our standing as an outside clan within the city?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo visibly swelled at Sosetsu's recognition of his worth. Though Iemon already had a sky-high opinion of him, reinforcing that positive image was never a bad thing. He'd have to find some small, innocuous way to thank the new bushi.\n\nThen came the matter of Kita's inquiry.\n\n« With the Imperials in control, we are all outside clans. However, that does differ in practice - the Scorpion and Unicorn have many local interests. Regardless, that's not really what you were asking, is it? »\n\nHe did not wait for an answer, assuming she would understand his remark as rhetorical.\n\n« We are recently in the lower rung of public perception, both among samurai and the lower classes alike. A now-ronin Isawa nearly killed a prominent Utaku and grievously wounded a peasant - one that is currently Imperial property, I might add. The Unicorn have not forgiven us for this. »\n\n« That is not to say that all is bad. The Scorpion, once rulers of the city, work well with us to ensure the flow of opium for medicine. And the Lion also seem bent on ensuring the city's stability. We have found similar interests among both of these clans, much to our surprise. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita's expression turned thoughtful at the Karo's explanation. \"Yes, thank you Asako-sama, for understanding my meaning. The situation with the Unicorn sounds... Unfortunate. But it is good to hear that there are other more productive relationships present as well. It will be good to bear in mind as we settling in here.\"\nKita then nodded to Sotetsu, \"My apologies, Asako-Sotetsu San for not answering your question more promptly. This has been an enlightening discussion of many topics. Yes-I was previously assigned to the Asako library in Michita Yasumi before my travels here. The Asako family is well represented here. I look forward to working with you as well.\"\n\"What further instruction do you have, Asako Sanumo-sama, Ambassador Shiba lemon-sama?\" Kita directed the question back at the two men across the table.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Actually, I'm glad you asked! » he perked up briefly. « With the Ambassador's authorization, I'd like to give you an additional task. Shiba-sama, would it meet with your satisfaction to have Asako Kita-san take the helm on our Steel Talons project? It could use a capable administrator to get it up and running - and having it out of my hands will allow me to better focus on more... Delicate matters. »\n\nHe seemed hopeful. It had been quite some time since another Phoenix courtier had stayed for more than a brief few nights en route to elsewhere.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nodded emphatically. \"I believe that would be an excellent idea, yes! If we can move forward in getting that underway, that will be most beneficial. It may seem strange for us to begin a formal dueling organization, but I can assure you that this is something that has merited much consideration and forethought from my loyal Karo. The benefits he sees to such a thing being implemented are unquestionable.\" His sincere words regarding Sanumo's idea were meant as a definitive statement of praise, closing the matter to second-guessing. \n\nHe turned to Sotetsu to respond to him and involve both of them in the conversation. \"Yes, though I do not know much beyond what has been officially stated regarding meishodo outside of what has been stated. Noboru could likely provide greater insight, and as you accompany him in his dealing with the Unicorn you may learn more than even I will on the subject.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita had paused several seconds before responding to the new proposal. \n\"As you wish Ambassador lemon-sama, Karo-sama. I am honored that you would entrust an additional assignment to one so newly arrived here as myself. I will see to it and work with Asako Sanumo-sama to get all the relevant details.\" \nWhile she had outwardly maintained her pleasant composure, Kita had been nearly in shock at the welcome and the opportunities immediately presented. After having been 'one of' for some time, and only known for her recent tragedy, she had expected to be assigned menial busy-work upon her arrival. She would continue to enjoy her tea while any final pleasantries concluded.\n\n||"
}
] | 224 | 4,386 |
210.647059 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "Ryoko Owari did not strike Shion as a welcoming city. Its walls felt tall and imposing, like a tidal wave that wanted to swallow you whole and leave you buried under the weight of its magnificence. The samurai lifted her scarf over her mouth, as if to safeguard what words might escape from her lips.\n\nThe Phoenix Embassy offered little comfort in this unfamiliar place. The three storied building seemed to loom over her in judgment. A far more immaculate display. It felt alien compared to the haphazard cobbles and halls of Shiro Shiba. That castle cast its shadow to her back, while the embassy burned like a star, forcing her to bring the brim of her hat down in shame.\n\nShion first paid her due respects to the Fortunes enshrined in the nearby temple. She prayed to Fukurokujin, for the wisdom to reveal her path. Then Bishamon, for the strength to see her task done. Then she approached the embassy proper, where an ashigaru awaited her with a narrowed brow.\n\n\"My name is Shiba Shion.\" Her voice spills out like a trickle under her ensemble. Too long on the road without a word. \"I have come from Nejiro Province, and seek to present myself to this embassy's Ambassador.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The ashigaru's expression softened in recognition of the name, a bow following thereafter. \"Greetings, Shiba-sama. The Karo notified us to expect your arrival. Please follow me to a meeting room and we will have someone join you as soon as possible.\"\n\nA short walk later, Shion was admitted to a quaint room adorned with paintings of various nature scenes. Tea was brought in short order and, not long afterwards, the Karo himself arrived.\n\nSanumo was an average man in many regards, but there were a few aspects that would jump out to an observer; his relative youth for one of his station, the simple cut and fabric of his earth-colored kimono, and the sharpness with which his gaze pierced the room upon entry.\n\nBowing, he introduced himself. \"It is nice to meet you, Shiba Shion-san. I am Asako Sanumo, Karo to the Ambassador. I have confirmed that he will join us momentarily.\" As he spoke, he wandered to a seated position and took up the teapot. \"In the meantime, allow me to pour you some tea. You must be parched after such a journey.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon had quickly set aside one of the secondary reports he had been going over as one of the servants brought word of their guest, and that Sanumo was already receiving her in one of the embassy's meeting rooms. The missive that had alerted the staff of the impending arrival of this particular Shiba had spelled out a little of her reasons for coming to Ryoko Owari Toshi, but a modicum of trepidation at the thought of a fellow Shiba having to seek their charge after failing to keep by their side? It brought to his mind his own most recent failures, dampening his mood as he reflected on those events once again as he made his way to the room.\n\nHe entered with the slightest of knocks, a waiting servant outside opening and closing the door for him, allowing him to focus his attention in entering and assessing their guest. He stood slightly taller than average, a fact that would have made him more imperious were it not for his face being almost kind when at rest. Slightly more careworn and creased with lines of worry since he had taken the role of ambassador, to be sure, but his open approach to others had served him well thus far.\n\n\"Greetings, Shiba-san, Asako-san, I hope I have not kept you both waiting overly long.\" He offered a slight bow to both, standing on protocol for the time being as they assessed Shion. His orange kimono displayed the Clan's Mon proudly, with the Shiba Mon settled prominently, but much smaller on the fabric. \"Would something more than tea be to your liking, Shiba-san? You have but to ask.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "In the interim, Shion would find her seat and set her hat off to the side. It would reveal the tangle of flowing brown underneath and listless eyes. Next came her scarf, unfurled from around her neck and folded neatly into her lap. Her expression remained neutral, unmoving like stone against the tide.\n\nWhen her hosts made their prompt arrival, Shion would bow her head and silently wait for them to exchange the standard pleasantries. If there was any relief to be received with such grace, she kept it behind her mask. The solemnity of her task required no less.\n\n\"My gratitude for your time and hospitality, Shiba-sama, Asako-sama. Tea will suffice.\" She lifted her head and looked about the room with its many adornments, the depictions of nature reminding her of the gardens she left behind in Shiro Shiba.\n\n\"I understand that my lord sent a missive ahead of my arrival.\" She did not wish to trouble them overlong, and so invited them to discuss the business that brought them here first if they so desired.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Taking Iemon's momentary silence as a cue to interject, Sanumo piped up. \"You need not thank us for merely doing our duty.\" He produced the letter that Shion's lord had sent ahead and placed it in front of the Ambassador in case he wished to review it as the conversation wore on.\n\n\"If you would, please tell us about the situation in your own words. One often finds new details in different retellings. We will want as much information as we can in order to navigate this situation well.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "There is a pang of anxiety when the question passes Asako's lips. For the longest time Shion has been trying to piece together the situation herself. Putting together fragments of heresay and hazy memories as if trying to remember a dream after waking. She pinches the edge of her scarf between her thumb and her finger, the only indication of her discomfort.\n\n\"I was charged with the protection of a Shugenja of the Isawa family. My lady was an exceptional elementalist, beyond reproach among her peers.\" This, she was told to her by the account of her charges fellow pupils and teachers. The trepidation on their faces as Shion asked them questions they thought she already knew still haunted her. \"She would often push beyond her limits in the field, a habit which I was assigned to help curve in my duties.\n\nShion tries to think on the day that they went missing, but the closer her memories tread to the fateful moment, the more they seemed to be swallowed up by darkness as thick as ink. \"Based on reports, my lady was attempting an unknown ritual in private, without the supervision of myself or others. I had attempted to find her, and believe that I did. But something had occurred which rendered me unconscious and my recollection a haze. Her whereabouts now are unknown.\"\n\nThe shame leaks out of her voice with a small crack, but returns to normal immediately after. \"After recovering and assessing the situation, I began to investigate the circumstances of the ritual. Letters were found in her chambers that leave me to believe that my lady was in correspondence with someone in this city. An unknown sender, but may well know of the ritual my lady was conducting, and perhaps what fate has befallen her.\"\n\nShe lowers her head, respectful, solemn. \"My lord has given me the year to discover the truth and settle this manner of honor before I submit my life for this grave failure in my duties.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nodded attentively to the account of his fellow Shiba. \"Regrettably, curbing ambitious Isawa pushing beyond their limits is something that we have some experience in. I sympathize with your plight deeply, Shiba-san.\" \n\nIt was an unfortunate situation, to be sure, and one that was likely more preventable had her charge simply listened to reason rather than presuming that she knew better than those seeking to advise her path forward. \n\n*Truly, we are fortunate that a similar demand was placed upon us after some of the local incidents that have brought us to this point.*\n\n\"Was there any further information in these letters about this ritual your lady was attempting? Was this sender offering guidance, or was there any other clue as to the nature of their communication?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "Grateful for the sympathy, Shion lowered her chin just a fraction of an inch lower, then began to clarify her account.\n\n\"The letters offered instruction but no clear intent, only the promise of knowledge and mastery.\" It felt like poison on her tongue, to think that her lady was swayed by such obvious deception, but then perhaps they were not. Perhaps these letters were sent by someone she trusted. The crux of the case would be finding out who that was.\n\n\"There was no indication of a cypher or other trickery, so we presume that there may have been previous correspondence that have yet to be uncovered, detailing the results of this ritual.\" She had hoped to conduct a more thorough search before leaving phoenix lands, but her peers insisted that they would handle the matter while she set out on her quest.\n\n*But surely they should not trouble themselves for her failures.*\n\nShion took a deep breath, to center herself. The swirl of emotion beneath her mask was starting to make itself known, the longer she spoke of this matter. \"Her mentor must have been a Shugenja of some skill, an authority even, if she would place her trust in them. That is my current lead.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo piped up, concern visible upon his brow. « If that is the case, I could work to compile a list of potential candidates. Between our own dealings and consulting with the Imperial records, it would give you sufficient orientation to begin. »\n\nHe glanced to the Ambassador. His words had been carefully calculated not to promise anything until it was approved by the samurai of higher standing.\n\n« It is, of course, paramount that you cause as few waves as possible. If you were to openly act suspicious towards even half of the shugenja in the city, it would cause myriad issues for our aims. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Any assistance in narrowing the scope of such an investigation that we can provide should be given.\" Iemon said, in answer to the glance from Sanumo. \n\n\"As Asako-San has said, creating waves when unneeded will make not only your investigation difficulties, but our own interests in the city would likely suffer. Your prudence will likely be sorely tried in your efforts, but I have confidence you will not buckle under the strain.\" He said further, turning an appraising eye to his fellow Shiba. That she had undertaken such a task spoke of a firm sense of duty, but the struggle that she undertook to contain her emotions spoke of more than shame in her failure.\n\n\"The bond between a Yojimbo and their charge can be a powerful one. I can understand how such a weight can be difficult to shoulder, but you need not shoulder it entirely alone.\" Iemon added, gently. \n\n*That such an unparalleled talent as this Shugenja would seek advice from outside the Phoenix is almost unheard of... Apart from the recent example of Isawa Tadaka, that is...* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "Kind words could salve the wound in a heart for a time, but only time would heal what may have been lost — and Shion did not have any to spare. \n\n\"You honor me with your words and understanding, Shiba-sama.\" She let the hardness of her tone fall, convinced now that she was in less harsh company than what she had come to expect. \"I will not cause you or our clan more grief than I have allowed already.\"\n\nShe raised her head and looked to the Karo, wearing her resolve on her face. \"For your assistance and wisdom on the matter, as well as the ways of this city, I would be most grateful, Asako-sama.\"\n\nHis wariness was an admirable trait to a Yojimbo. She'd wish she had met them both in brighter circumstance. \"And of course, as long as I remain in the city, I am at your disposal.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Of course. It is my duty to assist and so assist I shall. » Nodding, he acknowledged her expressed gratitude. « If you are to meet with success in Ryoko Owari Toshi, it is first important that you know where we currently stand, diplomatically-speaking. » He straightened his posture and took on a tone more fitting for rote recitation than anything else.\n\n« Among our poorest relations are the Crab and Unicorn. The Crab are still the subject of much feuding and scrutiny after Kuni Yori killed Isawa Tadaka, the late Master of Earth. The Unicorn, on the other hand, are distrustful because a now-ronin Isawa caught a prominent Utaku in the blast of one of their invocations. While the Unicorn lived, it shattered much of our gathered goodwill with them. »\n\nHe began tallying on his fingers as he went, « The Mantis are on neutral footing with us. The Crane, while normally among our greatest allies, have been distant for months and only recently extended an offer to reconnect. We are on good terms with the Dragon, especially when it concerns the Crab, but their samurai rarely make themselves known. »\n\n« The most curious developments recently have been concerning the Lion and Scorpion. The Lion appear to have a more stability-oriented delegation within the city at present. We have unexpectedly managed to strengthen ties with them recently and they are arguably our firmest friends locally. The Scorpion have also been working with us to increase opium access for medicinal use, as well as navigate the local underworld to investigate concerning rumors. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "Shion listened intently to every word, taking steps to ensure that her own personal thoughts were hidden well behind her mask. The Crab was no big surprise. The sins of the Kuni family were fresh in everyone's mind still. The Unicorn would give her pause however, this was not something she had heard about.\n\n\"Then we enjoy a relatively peaceful presence in the city then.\" She confirms, after Asako-sama has made his overarching review. This was good information. The Dragon could make good allies in her search for answers, given their own proclivities toward such matters.\n\nThe Scorpion could be useful, but it might be possible they had their own hand to play in her Lady's disappearance. They had their own secretive communions with the kami after all. She would, as any right-minded samurai ought, be wary of making deals with them.\n\n\"Perhaps I should start by fostering good will with the other clans then. My questions might be better answered as an exchange of favors than by tennous charity.\" Two birds in one stroke as well, she could get her answers while helping maintaining the status quo of their clan.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\" That is a wise course of action.\" Iemon nodded, appreciatively. \"Being able to receive help when it is freely offered, rather than as a favor to be returned will also keep you from being too overwhelmed and spread thin to the point of being ineffective.\"\n\nHe poured both of them the last of the tea. \"If you will allow us to utilize your skills in ways that can assist you in your own duty, it would be appreciated. Though we have had a greater period of support over the last few months, it would be unwise for us to not ensure mutual gain for the Clan and for your quest if at all possible. I only ask because I do not wish to unduly burden you. Your primary duty is that of a Yojimbo, and I would not lightly impose on such a bond.\"\n\n|| \n\nDang it, sorry all, had finished typing this but never hit send 😅||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "Unduly burden... It seems they are both the type who avoid unnecessary imposition. She gives a slow, meaningful nod and takes a sip of what remains of her tea-cup. Closing her eyes to ruminate over her current position and what resources are now available to her. She would not permit herself to hope, that was the domain of those who lacked understanding of their own power.\n\n\"Then I shall set myself to my task with your blessing, Iemon-sama. Should you find a task suitable to my position, I will await word.\" Tea finished, she reaches for her scarf, and her hat, and prepares herself to be excused. \n\n\"It has been a pleasure to make both of your acquaintance. I pray our fortunes in the coming days are prosperous.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"I am happy to count you among our numbers, Shiba-san.\" *If concerned about the circumstances surrounding your arrival.*\n\n\"I will make accommodations for you here at the embassy until further notice. Should you choose to arrange for exterior room and board, you need only notify me of such.\"\n\nHe gave a firm nod, ceding the floor to his superior for any final words and the dismissal of his lessers.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"The pleasure is rightfully shared, Shiba-san. Thank you for your willingness to assist us while pursuing your duties, it will not be forgotten.\" Iemon said finally, rising with their guest and offering a bow, excusing her. \n\n\"I hope your stay will be beneficial both to your duty and to our Clan. Go with the Fortunes, Shiba Shion-san.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 219 | 3,581 |
268.25 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "hukkatar",
"message": "It was a quiet, early evening as Kaito Setsuka returned from her duties back to the Phoenix Embassy. The sun was setting and lanterns were being lit across the city as she entered the two-storied temple that stood before the Embassy. \nIt had been a long, exhausting day, but she nevertheless joined the other monks in the temples' maintenance, and purifying herself spiritually. She made offerings of incense to the Seven Great Fortunes downstairs, before heading upstairs to meditate before the shrines of the Sun, Moon, and Dragons. \n\nSetsuka had a hard time focusing.\nShe tried counting her breaths, up to ten and then back to zero, but nothing seemed to help to calm her buzzing mind. Sighing softly, the shrine maiden opened her eyes, stood up, and bowed to the shrines in apology . A soft, breeze-like feeling touched Setsuka's spirit, and she felt less anxious.\n\nAs Setsuka prepared to leave, she noticed that another shrine maiden had come upstairs. Something about this woman seemed very familiar, and Setsuka found herself staring. Realizing her impoliteness, she swiftly bowed her head in apology, but couldn't help but voice her thoughts.\n\n\"Excuse me, but have we... Met before?\" Setsuka asked, brushing one of her loose, white hair strands back. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "cardboardarmor",
"message": "As was her usual wont, Emiko had volunteered for the dusk rites at the Embassy temple. It was, to be sure, one of the less glamorous acts of faith - the faithful were usually on their way home or in search of less pious pursuits at this hour - and so attendance and therefore attendant donations were uninspiring.\n\nTo be out of the public eye, to be there and not noticed, something about that appealed to Emiko. Hiding without hiding. She often contemplated such things. Tonight, she was ensuring the lanterns on the grounds were lit, to provide illumination and a place for the fire kami during the night.\n\nCarrying a paper lantern across her shoulders in a rather casual manner, Emiko jolted to a halt rather suddenly when addressed. When one is used to being invisible, one forgets what it is like to be seen.\n\n\"Ah, apologies. Perhaps we have. Though, should we have not before, I am Kaito Emiko.\" The light cast by the twin lanterns behind Emiko's head cast her face in long, shadows. Still, perhaps, her mannerism - if not her appearance - would prompt a memory in the elder Kaito. Emiko was always somewhat odd. Harmless, but... Odd. \n\nTabi-clad feet shifted softly, the paper lanterns swayed gently. \"Was there something you needed?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "hukkatar",
"message": "Upon hearing Emiko's name, Setsuka's amber eyes lit up with pleasant surprise.\n\"Oh! No wonder you seemed so familiar! I suppose I might be older just enough that we were in different classes in the dojo- Ah, right, I am Kaito Setsuka,\" She bowed in introduction, trying to smooth out her red hakama discreetly. \n\nNow, with a name to add to the face, Setsuka recalled seeing Emiko from a distance in Sanpaku Seido, though the two had never interacted much besides some polite greetings when passing each other. The senior shrine maiden had noticed Emiko's withdrawn nature and curious mannerisms, but hardly found it disturbing. A tad odd maybe, but honestly, who in this world wasn't even a _little_ bit strange to the eyes of someone else?\n\nAt Emiko's question, Setsuka shook her head and fiddled with her white hair, a little embarrassed.\n\"Oh, no, sorry to disturb you, I didn't need anything,\" The woman said. \"I suppose I am just very homesick and happy to have someone of my Family here. Of course, there are other Phoenix here, for which I am grateful, but it's not quite the same,\" She explained, paused, and let out a soft sigh.\n\"Very homesick, indeed.\"\n\nA brief, melancholic look darkened Setsuka's face, but she quickly cheered up again. \n\"Either way, I am glad and honored to meet you! I apologize if I disturbed your work,\" She said sheepishly.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "cardboardarmor",
"message": "\"Oh.\" Emiko said, shifting the lantern off her shoulder and placing the stick from which it hung into a nearby receptacle so she could shrug at Setsuka's offered apology. The more even cast of light did much to soften and warm Emiko's appearance. \"Nothing to apologize for, Setsuka-senpai.\"\n\nThe rather rapid shift to the familiar, coupled with a posture of ease, suggested things about the younger Kaito: an easygoing nature, among perhaps other traits - some negative - that others might ascribe to such a casual air.\n\n\"I had been done. Lanterns are lit and the incense ash has been swept away.\" These were the actions normally given to a far more junior shrine maiden than what Emiko's position would supposedly suggest she should be doing. \"Sorry to hear you're burdened in that way - could I help you in any way with that? Family must be there for one another, after all.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 280 | 1,073 |
142.92 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "If it was the case of gaining a good amount of sleep, Himiko would not be bothered to be up by sunrise. But ever since she and Kashikoi had delved into the void she changed. Even though the nightmares were less frequent, they had appeared in much more intense versions, ones with way more details, faces she could recognize even. Last night she saw her mothers face. That mortifying face could no longer leave her mind. But she decided that this was no reason to slack. \n\nSo the young Kitsu, no longer wearing the proud colors of gold, but the suit of a shrine maiden, would enter the embassy. The guards would perhaps not blink at her appearance no longer as they were used to her visiting. Her hair had been braided down as it still reached her tailbone. She however would not enter without the approval of Kashikoi, after all she was still a guest, this was not her home. \n\nSo she simply waited at the front door. A slight smile on her face, she had brought some breakfast for the two of them to enjoy after the training session. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Oh, that certainly looks delicious.\"\n\n_Chimed in the exact man Himiko was looking for, sitting only a couple of feet to her left, seemingly in a meditative pose. He opened one eye and glanced at the Kitsu, a warm smile forming effortlessly._\n\n\"Greetings, Himiko-chan. I see you are ready for a few extra lessons, hmm?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"In case you were just as hungry as I am Kashikoi-san.\"* Himiko had smirked as she took her welcome and bowed down to him. Offering the food to him as it revealed a bowl of vegetable noodle soup. \n\nAs to the question of ready for extra lessons she squinted her eyes for a brief moment. *\"Ready is not the correct word to describe my state of being awake. Willing is.\"* She admitted. Hoping that he'd understand what she implied.\n\n*\"My nightmares turn up more vivid, they died down in frequency but the detail in them is as if I am there. Right there.\"* She decided to tell him. He'd find out sooner or later. She trusted him.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Good, a good sign of awareness. As well as lucidity to understand the difference of reality and what the Void can call on.\"\n\n_Kashikoi stands, gesturing to the guards to let them in as he guides her to a large room, seemingly empty, much more spacious than even a meeting room._\n\n\"Set the food down while I set up a small platter to set it on, please Himiko-chan.\"\n\n_He goes about what he said, but he also spoke, the tone more firm._\n\n\"Today is a foray into _Beru Daimome_, or the Second Ring of the Void. Today we look past the illusion of reality and see that which lies underneath. What connects together and what binds it all.\"\n\n_Once finished, he sits on one side, gesturing to the display with a smile._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Beru Daimome. So we are going to seek out the true reality behind the one we hold as ours?\"* She frowned a bit as she set down the food and followed him. Sitting down when he gestures to do so. The face of her mother had been haunting her. \n\nShe seemed a bit out of it for a moment before she grasped back to the reality they were discussing. *\"Does that mean there are multiple realities?\"* Himiko had questioned. She had been pestering her mind with trying to comprehend this. A reality where she perhaps didn't have Ilu. What a nightmare that would truly be. She would brush down the lose parts of her hairs and adjusted the long braid. She stood there, wiggling her toes. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"No, but the illusion is that reality is rigid. Stable. Tell me, is water rigid? Does it not change?\"\n\n_Kashikoi took his chopsticks and popped them apart, before softly clapping his hands together and giving thanks for the meal._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko would take a seat and smirked at the display of joy within food. She would then consider his question as she shook her head. *\"Water somehow even represents change, does it not?\"* She pondered before sitting back a bit. It was clear she was tired. \n\n*\"It moves. Stable but it can be set in motion to cause a disaster?\"* Himiko questioned. She seemed not so sure of herself today. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Close;\"\n\n_Kashikoi held up his tea, showcasing the way the water shifted and splashed._\n\n\"It begins as it is, wet and malleable. Constantly changing shape to fit the container, but leave in the cold and it freezes into Earth. Leave in the heat and not only will it return to Water, it will become Air.\"\n\n_He sets the cup down, glancing back at her with a gentle smile._\n\n\"But Water cannot be Earth or Air, can it? If there is no division of the Elements, how does the world function?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko wished to fall back and grunt in order to comprehend this. But her inner self yelled at her to pay attention. *\"Do they have to truly be divided? Couldn't they cooperate? We make weapons from the metal of the earth and fire. We create soup like yours out of water and fire.\"* She stated before rubbing her eyes. \n\n*\"The world can function within the order of the elements, shall they not clash that is.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_Kashikoi smiled._\n\n\"Already you see through the illusion: the world is nothing but the elements mixing and harmonizing. We, ourselves, are great examples of this. Within us, we have Fire, Water, Earth and Air, each with their own purpose and abilities. Now, what binds these things to what appears to be rigidity?\"\n\n_He eats quietly after the question is posed, but he's still smiling. Already making significant progress and the lesson has already started, Kashikoi mentally chuckled. If she were trained at Starry Heavens, she'd be regarded as a prodigy._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"The void.\"* She stated in a determined manner. Listening to the man speaking as she remained in awe of his knowledge. The golden and blue eye would watch his moves as if she were expecting something to happen. Maybe she was just on edge. She didn't know either. \n\n*\"But it's like water? Stable but always changing?\"* She questioned. She clearly was invested as she had leaned forward a bit in the hopes of hearing an answer soon enough. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"It _binds_ water. It's what keeps water on this plane and working as intended.\"\n\n_He nods, conjuring a small sphere of water._\n\n\"But from this, it flows into the air and earth, making rain and growing crops. It also feeds in ways into fire, and the cycle continues. The point, is the Void is beyond all.\"\n\n_He then shifts the sphere into air, then earth, then fire before forming rings of each, with a space in the middle._\n\n\"The Void is like that, but also like Earth. Like Air and Fire. It is all, it is nothing.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "She would stare at the change of elements. She seemed interested but not mesmerized somehow. *\"So the void is just there. People don't know it is?\"* She questioned before adjusting her pose a bit. Next were her clothing that needed adjustments as they were clearly too large for her own good. \n\n*\"It's like a wall I suppose.\"* She stated. *\"But also like chains or something. Since it's not air. But it is not anything yet it does everything \"* She seemed to understand but tried to describe it. After all explaining it to somebody would show growth and understanding. She for now failed this task. *\"What else does the second ring explain?\"* She questioned in a polite yet eager manner. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"The second ring is as put: Beyond. See beyond the world, beyond the illusion of rigidity and see the Void in its absence. See the fluidity of the Void.\"\n\n_He smiled._\n\n\"It is where your progress will truly begin to show.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"But how do you see it, if you can't really see. You said I shouldn't open my eyes in the void.\"* She questioned. She was wiggling her toes around in her socks. She was tracing one of the scars on her hands with the thumb of her other hand. She was thinking on how she could see the void. *\"Does it mean you don't have to sink into it like happened last time? Does it mean that it will be there no matter if you decide to go to the void or not?\"* She asked more questions out loud. Thinking had no use since Kashikoi would just know anyways. She wanted to know as well. She wanted to hear as well. But she was not ready and she understood. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"When we first dipped, I told you to keep your eyes closed because you had no experience or knowledge to protect your mind. Now, you have more, you even briefly opened them before. Now is where we begin with the fundamentals to help you see beyond.\"\n\n_Kashikoi explained, singular hand emoting as he spoke; tracing a non-linear path through the air between them before pausing to continue eating._\n\n\"A little of both, the Void is absence; but also present. There are ways to enter, so to speak, the Void without diving into it, but such ways are not as enlightening or dangerous as a full dive.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"So it's like spider silk? You grasp onto them through everything even though they're not visible. Yet you can feel their presence as they trigger the hairs on your arms and hold onto you? \"* Himiko stated. *\"And if you take a deep dive you'll fall into the web of a million fragments merging into one?\"* She questioned. *\"So you can see the whole picture instead of just one singular thread?\"* \n\nThe young girl clearly was giving herself a headache. She would watch him move and eat. She did not budge other than the occasional adjustment of clothing.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"An apt analogy!\"\n\n_Kashikoi chuckled, nodding his head._\n\n\"Though, do not constantly liken it to spider-silk. Remember, the Void is fluid; it will shift. The greatest way to not be surprised by a change; simple have no preconceived notions. Be a cup, as it were.\"\n\n_He holds up his tea cup for demonstration._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "A smile would grow on the young girl's face as she nodded her head once more. *\"A cup?\"* She questioned out loud. *\"So the void is but is not like spider silk.\"* She would chuckle at this as she realized how crazy this was sounding to somebody with no affinity to the void. *\"I understand why people fear the void so much, it is truly a riddle to understand.\"* She seemed patient and joking however. \n\n*\"So the void is here. But it's not. It can be silk, it can be earth, water, fire, air, it can be a bird in the sky, yet it is not?\"* She questioned to confirm that she was fully understanding what Kashikoi meant. *\"It is change but stability. It is changing.\"* She stated. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Indeed; the easiest way many Ishiken have coined it is: It is All, It is None.\"\n\n_He hums, holding up two hands before returning to his food. He then tapped her end, motioning to a small bowl on her end._\n\n\"I will not eat alone, I am sickly, not infirm.\"\n\n_He chuckled again, clacking his chopsticks nearly childishly. He sipped some tea from his cup._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Very well, although I do not consider you sickly nor infirm. You are very much alive to me.\"* She smiled politely before bowing down and thanking the kami for her food. She would pick up the bowl with both hands as she skillfully balanced the chopsticks on top of it. Starting to eat. She was more hungry than that she had noticed before. \n\n*\"Kashikoi-san, may I ask, from what I understand I was never capable of seeing nor reminding faces in my dreams. But last night. Last night I saw my mother. After all those years I saw her face again. It makes me long for home. For somewhere I cannot return to. But my dreams were never this vivid before, do you recon the void is influencing me?\"* She asked. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Potentially. It may be Absence, but some Masters of Void have noted it feels ... Aware.\"\n\n_Kashikoi laughed, before it became a weak cough._\n\n\"I appreciate the sentiment, but I am sickly. By product of my introduction to the Void, a heavy price paid for my current wisdom and abilities.\"\n\n_He gestures to his gaunt form. He also looks over her,_\n\n\"Did she say anything? Make any odd motions?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "It was clear that this had been a sensitive subject to Himiko. *\"I could hear her scream. It was like I relived the memory from back then. Back when I lost them. Her beautiful and warm face was suddenly drained from life. Her eyes would roll back. Then she vanished. Like that. But her face haunts me every time I close my eyes. Blink even.\"* She would quickly take a few bites of her food. As if she tried to suppress her horrid feeling connected to her face. Himiko was fragile here. Open. She had been herself, unlike the display of ambassador she had to show every day. She had never shared ideas or details with anyone. \n\n*\"It was just like then. Exactly to in the details. I could even feel the cold of winter crawl over me.\"* She shivered for a moment. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"It could be the Void itself, or it could be your newfound understanding of your abilities. Without being there myself, I could not say for certain. Keep an eye on that though, dreams are a very vulnerable point for any samurai under Tengoku.\"\n\n_Kashikoi hums, pondering the thought as he eats a tad slower, making sure not to speak with food still in his mouth._\n\n\"Remember however, tis just a dream. Even if you can tie some of your Medium abilities to your connection, it is still incorporeal.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"The void is a strange thing, truly.\"* Himiko stated. She simply wanted to get that face out of her head. Therefore she decided to disconnect her feelings towards it for the slightest moments. *\"So is sleep and is dreaming.\"* She would take another bite of food. Chewing thoroughly as she made sure that she did not rush. She wanted to continue the lesson. After all that was what she was here for. \n\n*\"I wish to ask a brutally honest question. Do you recon I can read your thoughts as well? Like you do to mine? Or is this skill too greedy of me to expect as a beginner in understanding the void?\"* She wished to know. She wanted to know what Ilu had been thinking all this time. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"It depends. Some, like me in my case, develop the ability naturally. Likely as a consequence of my early exposure. Or you can slowly try to develop it after some training. It's hard to determine, especially since some abilities ebb and flow.\"\n\n_He answers, humming as he sips from his tea again. He raises his other hand in a wavey gesture, before setting the cup down._\n\n\"You could certainly develop the power, and it's not too greedy to expect; believe it or not, the power to read minds is not too terribly advanced for an Ishiken, mostly due to the nature of seeing into the Void. The hidden is revealed and what's underneath is suddenly on the surface.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"So it would be better for me to see the void first.\"* Himiko mentioned. It was clear the child had not been interested in the power that lied beyond and within the void, more so the understanding on how to deal with it. The understanding of herself if one would truly pry. *\"I fear of suddenly starting to hear voices speak to me and me being unable to tell the thoughts from what I am supposed to hear. Their voice.\"* Himiko would state. She would glance at her master. \n\n*\"My home has thought me how to commune with my ancestors, how to seek them, see them and hear them. Do you recon their ways could be applied to the void as well? Much like a child shugenja learns how to speak with kami?\"* The young one questioned. Leaning a bit forward as she was finally waking up a bit. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"It is certainly a basis that many Ishiken have used; after all, even Ishiken are Shugenja, we still heed the call of the kami as well. As for the concern; I struggle with that greatly. I often must apologize for such, when I reply to a question that was never asked or are privy to thoughts meant to be hidden; it is challenging. I imagine you might have greater control over it than I,\"\n\n_He ends with a smile, nodding to her as he sets his chopsticks aside and takes another sip of tea._\n\n\"Especially given your technique with Ancestor communion.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"I wish not to dishonor my ancestors, but some days they are truly more stubborn than the kami are. That is an achievement on its own.\"* The Kitsu had slightly chuckled. Letting the compliment reach her mind. *\"Do you recon? I wish to not use the ability as much. If it does not come naturally to me I will simply use it to understand the thoughts of my dog.\"* She smiled ever so slightly. \n\n*\"So communing with the void is equal to communing with the kami? Other than it not clearly giving an answer or not clearly showing its presence? Do I have to sink in every single time I wish to learn things?\"* She questioned again. She wanted to hear it. Her thoughts told the Ishiken as well.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"I do not actually know if the ability works on animals! I have never tested that, just ever on people.\"\n\n_Kashikoi responded, surprised at the thought, blinking owlishly as he ran the scenario through his head._\n\n\"Somewhat, and no, you can just as easily learn by glancing. But, sometimes the truth is hard to see, like trying to see in murky water or on a foggy night. Therefore, the necessity arises to dive into the Void and peer through it. If anything, communing with the Void is harder than the kami, perhaps even more dangerous.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Because the void also takes. When the kami don't answer. The void takes.\"* Himiko understood now. The scars. The poor physical state Kashikoi had found himself in. *\"So if the void wishes not to answer, you shouldn't follow through unless it is a necessity?\"* The young girl questioned. She seemed not concerned, just wanted to make sure that what she said made sense. She rummaged through her belongings to show him her spellbook. Even though not normal she had written down all the spells she recognized. But couldn't find the origins of some. Last time she sneaked into the library here but got busted by a Shiba, therefore couldn't continue to find it. \n\n*\"Much like you know I have lost much of my memories. I however remember some spells. But some of them I couldn't find the origin of.\"* She would open the book and pointed at the following spells: reach through the void, echoes in the void, sense void, unraveling.\n\n*\"Although I never use these spells because I don't understand their origin or their ability, I know these. Do you recognize them?\"* \n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"I do, at least at first glance. I recognize the stylizing we used at Starry Heavens Sanctuary. You are wise, not using Void spells so openly; many have been accused of _mahō_ due to the lack of knowledge about the Void.\"\n\n_Kashikoi reads over the spells again, making sure to keep them in mind as he ran through their uses and powers. He does glance at Himiko, nodding._\n\n\"And what the kami demand, is usually tamer than what the Void takes. As you can see,\"\n\n_He gestures to himself._\n\n\"Be very wary whenever you do touch the Void or delve into it, and yes, make sure you have exhausted most of your options before you do.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"I have used it once, this one!\"* She would point at the spell called sense void. *\"I used this one to find Ilu. I used it in front of Utaku Kazuko-sama once. But it was clear she was more impressed than understood that it was a spell of Maho or Void. I suppose their culture is strange enough to not consider danger like that?\"* Himiko would state. Once again the Kitsu could not lie. \n\n*\"But I suppose I could work on my recall skill with Ilu much better than constantly exhausting the void for my own will.\"* Himiko smiled. It was very clear she understood the consequences of using the void. After all she had feared it, perhaps still feared it. But decided to conquer it for the good of understanding herself, the lineage and her capabilities. \n\n*\"Kashikoi-san? May I read your mind? I understand that the void should not be used for greed, but my curiosity cannot hold itself to find out what it sounds like?\"* She would fold her hands together, even though she had felt shameful for even asking, she dared to look him in the eyes with a kind smile. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"I suppose it would, the Unicorn have an odd affinity for magic, at least that foreign magic they brought with them from the Burning Sands.\"\n\n_Kashikoi blinked, before smiling and gesturing her to go on, allowing his mind to be open. The result is ... Chaotic. Odd thoughts, trails ending and restarting before ending again, snippets of thoughts from others around him and a singular, unending mantra nearly drowned out by the sea of chaos around it._\n\n\"I apologize for the state of my thoughts, I find myself ... Used to not being entirely organized a majority of the time.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko hadn't even cast the spell yet and the Isawa had already apologized, for what exactly? The young girl would adjust her way of sitting to a bit more strict form. Folding her legs, straightening her back, brushing back her hair. She would look at him for a moment before closing her eyes. Inhaling deeply as she inhaled the incense that was burnt behind them in the room. She would speak the words of the spell. Focus on his voice before he stopped speaking. Alas she did not know he had stopped. \n\nAfter a while his words seemed incoherent, strange and it was just many thoughts. She had never opened her eyes, she was in full focus. Hearing the sea of chaos was at first overwhelming, but then again what was she looking for, not an exact thought. Therefore she'd consider to go along with the flow of chaos, just simply listening. She was silent, she remained silent, but it was clear she succeeded as a small glimpse of a grin had grown on her face. \n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_There is one sliver of thought that seems to make itself more known; a starry void with whispers of varying intensity, among them all, a young boy's scream as something seems to be known. Kashikoi does not react overtly, noticing the focus demonstrated by Himiko, but a single thought crosses his mind into hers._\n\n'_Beware that memory._'\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Yet with caution came curiosity. But she did not pry. *\"May I hear it? I'll keep my eyes closed.\"* She stated. After all she had not once opened her eyes. But if he had told her to not approach she would leave. It was something in his mind. Strange how it was so shattered and chaotic at the same time. Just floating all over the place. How could Kashikoi truly think? \n\nHimiko had wondered. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "'_You have been hearing it. All the thoughts? Whispers of what could be and is? That is what that is just ... Before I was ready._'\n\n_The sliver vanished, as if batted away with a stray hand. It did not immediately vanish, but it did eventually disperse into the sea of chaos,_\n\n'_It is not so bad, once you get used to it. Sometimes I have to focus more to keep a particular line of thought going, but other than that, tis just whatever crosses my mind._'\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"They are here yes. I don't think I'll be able to pick out all of them separately. But is everyone's mind like this? I don't think Ilu-san would have thoughts this many.\"* Himiko had mentioned as she had let go of the spell. Opening her eyes as she clearly felt dizzy for a moment. Rubbing her eyes and trying to orientate herself. After that she would check her hands on more scars, it seemed clear. \n\n*\"Do I think like that too?\"* She questioned. Brushing back some of her hair as she took her cup of tea. Sipped from it to hydrate herself again a bit. *\"I suppose this spell is not that bad.\"* She stated. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"From what I've heard, it depends on the person. A shugenja tends to have a few lines of thought going at once; prayers being recited to invoke the kami and keep casual conversation. Bushi are easier, they are strict, more worldly and have less lines of thought.\"\n\n_Kashikoi simply blinked, chuckling._\n\n\"By the by, you don't have to close your eyes. Unless that helps you concentrate, but otherwise? You don't need to close your eyes.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"I wanted to close my eyes in case I accidentally sunk into the void.\"* Himiko noticed his chuckle and granted him a light one as well. She would rub the back of her head. Adjusting her pose back to a more casual one. She would give him a smirk. \n\n*\"I am going to try to read Ilu's thoughts tonight. Perhaps she'll only think about food but that's alright. \"* Himiko mentioned before looking at him. \n\n*\"So I should only use these spells when I am in danger? May I practice them with you? I am afraid I'll hurt myself when I just... Randomly do it.\"* Himiko mentioned. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"An excellent idea of training, and yes, mostly with me. Thought reading should not be too harmful in general, but be careful with that, as it can and will bite back.\"\n\n_Kashikoi nodded, humming as he understood Himiko's caution._\n\n\"I see, good precaution. You should not have too much of a problem with that, but it's good to be cautious.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"How will it bite back?\"* Himiko questioned him, her head ever so slightly tilting towards the left. Blinking her eyes twice as she not awaited the answer to this, it would be eventually. Her eagerness to learn these spells properly had taken over. After all how would she guard herself when it would be a near death experience. Not that she expected to be into one very soon, but like said, the void is strong, perhaps even stronger when fueled with the fear of losing everything and the adrenaline to remain alive. \n\nShe would grasp onto the book of spells. Carefully rummaging trough it, finally finding the next spell on her list. Reading the spell out loud she would state *\"The empty voice.\"* Then glanced over to Kashikoi if he was content with the intensity or even was familiar with this spell. She would skim the spell, take a deep breath, close her eyes and spoke her prayer to the Void. Soon she would peak with one eye. Nothing had happened. *\"Did I do it in the wrong manner? What is supposed to happen?\"* Himiko felt a bit ashamed that she had so sudden cast a spell that could potentially harm somebody without even considering the consequences. She would rub the back of her head and just stared at her master. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Those unfamiliar with our arts call it a great many things; the worst of all ... _Mahō_.\"\n\n_He says the word with equal amounts trepidation and disgust. Shaking his head, he watches her apply the next spell, when she looks around expecting results, he chuckles._\n\n\"Behold, Himiko-chan, _The Empty Voice_,\"\n\n_He places his hand on her shoulder, speaking nothing as he casts **Elemental Ward** Over her, waiting to see her reaction._\n\n\"A more simple spell as well, but extremely useful in its application.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Eh?!\"* Himiko exclaimed as the clear confusion grew on her face. There was no form of panic but the young girl clearly showed a surprise from beyond any expecations. She would look at the Isawa and started laughing. *\"H-how? Wait? It's the spell.\"* It took Himiko a solid 5 minutes to finally put the links together and find out what had happened. She would point at the following spell, one she knew how to use. The spell that she had cast many times before \"Sense void\". She did not speak however and to her surprise the void had listened to her words. Her eyes would be closed yet she could feel the presence of many within the embassy. \n\nShe would smile grantly as she opened up her eyes once more. *\"That's a sneaky spell, nobody would know you communed with the void.\"* Himiko chuckled. But soon she would turn to Kashikoi with a more serious tone. \n\n*\"Maho... Is the void strong enough to battle it? I think that if anything would be more dangerous it would be that.\"* She questioned. She almost not dared to speak the word however. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_Kashikoi let out a loud laugh at the confusion shown by Himiko, mirth spilling from the usually reserved acting man. He does quiet as she pieces together how the spell works, nodding._\n\n\"The Empty Voice is more of a passive spell, allowing the ability to call upon the kami without vocalizing a prayer. It can make for an effective tool, especially if you intend to win a _Taryu-Jiai_. The best part, it need not be Void spells.\"\n\n_He says, holding a hand up to the Kitsu, snapping and causing a tiny candle of flame to burn above his thumb. He does sober, dismissing the flame as he glances towards the Lion._\n\n\"All things done in righteous are superior to the corruption of the Taint. Even the Void, with its pitfalls, is a better path to madness than _Mahō_.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had followed the motions of her teacher. It was of importance that she knew the skill she was about to acquire and perhaps use if the wheel tried to challenge her hard enough. The strange colored eyes sparked up as the laugh of the man in front of her made her smile. It must have been a long time since she even heard him laugh like that. Listening to his words clearly made her thoughts sound like his. Everywhere all at once, all random and all of some sort of concern. What the concern had been differentiated to hurting others on accident to actually standing eye to eye with maho as her enemy. She knew he could hear them but didn't forcefully shut them up nor mention it. Instead she would look at him. \n\nShe would hold up the scraps of her spell book as she skipped a few spells, ones she wanted to try out for herself as she had never cast those before. Her finger landed on something called \"Rise from the Ashes\". Holding up the book towards the man as she was unsure what it did or what it could do. *\"This one? It sounds unlikely I know it but...\"* She wanted to try anyways. She wanted to know what this was. But it was clear the young one was already tired. Castings spells, void spells to be specifically, fast enough could tire one out swiftly. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_Kashikoi's eyes widened as he read over the spell, shaking his head gently as he looked to Himiko, gesturing her to rest a moment._\n\n\"That spell ... Is exceedingly difficult to cast correctly, not even I would dare attempt a casting so frivolous, because that spell ... Effectively makes death unable to take you.\"\n\n_He sighs, expression one of pondering as he tore over how best to word this spell._\n\n\"When you cast this spell, initially you notice nothing. It is when something would fatally wound you and even kill you, that it shows its effect. It ... '_resets_' you back to the moment you cast the spell. Exactly as you were, even if you had died.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko settled down again as she seemed tired enough to fall back to sleep. She would listen to Kashikoi as she tilted her head ever so slightly. A confused frown, this time with a much more serious undertone, grew upon her face as the childlike energy she just displayed faded completely. There was something about her past that was completely missed. How could she even know of this spell. *\"Kashikoi-san? How does a spell like this end up in my spell book? Do non void shugenjas even know of this?\"* Himiko stared at the man. She felt more bitter now. There was something he was not telling her, even though he was probably not even aware of it. He knew there was a blockade of some sorts in her mind. He had seen it. The question was. Was he smart enough to keep Himiko away from that information? \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"No, they do not; rightly so. If they were to learn we can rip someone from Emma-Ō's hands and preserve them, it would cause many to try and selfishly abuse that power for negative ends.\"\n\n_Kashikoi nodded, pointing to the spell._\n\n\"We allow it to be seen as a testament to the power we can gain, and because it can be necessary. There was tell of an Ishiken using this ability on a samurai who could pray directly to Amaterasu-dono and call upon her sacred flames against an Oni. When this warrior fell, the Ishiken held on to the technique as long as he could before he brought her back to surprise the Oni.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 142 | 7,146 |
222.521739 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "Kentarō stepped away from the street, the scents and sights of the city at his back, the grand embassy of his clan rising up like a celestial temple toward the heavens. Kentarō was relieved; the journey had taken longer than he liked and he was anxious to refresh himself and acquaint himself with his new home. Still, duty called first.\n\nHe adjusted the Wakizashi at his obi and smoothed out his kimono. He was dressed in grey and black, with highlights of fiery orange that matched the short mantle over his shoulders, accented with jade at its clasps and a carved jade medallion hung at his neck with the mon of the Phoenix proudly displayed. He checked his topknot and, finding it satisfactory, said a brief prayer to the air Kami to improve his words. \n\nLooking again up at the embassy that so appealed to his spiritual sensibilities, he stepped toward the awaiting ashigaru who viewed him with warranted suspicion. Bowing appropriately, he produced a travel pass and gave it to them.\n\n\"Asawa no Shingon Kentarō, reporting for residence and to see the esteemed Ambassador.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The ashigaru at the gate looked over the travel pass briefly, and nodded. \"This seems to be in order, samurai-sama. Please, one moment while I ask where you will be received.\"\n\nShe disappeared into the embassy for a few brief minutes, the local traffic of minor bureaucrats traveling between embassies with missives and servants coming and going with goods from the market showed the embassy district as busy, but certainly quieter than the rest of the city. The ashigaru returned with one of the servants of the embassy, an elderly man who bowed and gestured for Kentarō to follow him into the embassy proper. \n\nIemon waited in the prepared room, seated at a perfectly square table with three seats left open. The window behind him opened to a small central garden, the midday sun shining brightly, and the faint sound of a shishi-odoshi gently echoed into the room.\n\nHe was dressed in the kimono of his office, the orange shades like flickering flames lightening as it reached his hands. Giving a stately bow as the door was opened by the servant to allow their guest entrance, he gestured to the seat across from him as he rose. \"Greetings, Isawa no Shingon Kentarō-san, I am Ambassador Shiba Iemon. We should be joined both by my Karo shortly, as well as some tea to refresh yourself after your journey. If you need anything else, you have but to ask.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "The newly arrived shugenja bowed before his host with great respect. \"Domo origato, Ambassador Shiba Iemon-sama. I am honoured to meet you and be here within this esteemed city.\"\n\nKentarō stepped forward toward the table and lifted lifted a parcel, wrapped in beautiful purple with a design of swimming carp emblazoned upon it in silver, with both hands and bowed slightly again. \"I would be pleased to share a cup of tea with you, and await your esteemed Karo. I hope you would do me the honour of accepting this boring and humble gift, Ambassador.\"\n\nHe expected the other man to politely refuse a time or two, and he was prepared to insist each time with a smile. Within the finely wrapped package was a scroll, one designed to be displayed. Upon it, written in the script of a most accomplished Phoenix calligrapher, and surrounded with a border of gold leaf, was a poem attributed to Shinsei:\n\n*Mountains stand unmoved,\nYet flow with the river's song,\nStrength in yielding grace.*\n\nKentarō pulled his wakizashi from his belt and sat, placing the weapon to his right, blade facing toward himself and hilt positioned in an awkward way should he attempt to draw the weapon— polite, in deference.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The polite refusals were of course offered, finally accepting on the third offering of the gift. Iemon marveled at the impeccable calligraphy contained in the scroll. \"Absolutely stunning, thank you very much for your thoughtful gift!\" \n\nThe elderly servant returned with a soft rap at the door, bringing a pot of tea and three cups. Iemon poured immediately for his guest, a gesture of both humility and respect. He left the third cup empty, wishing for Sanumo's tea to be kept fresh and warm in the pot.\n\n\"It is an honor to receive you here in Ryoko Owari Toshi. May I ask what gift of the Fortunes has brought you to the city?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "He bowed his head with a smile. \"I am most pleased that you find the scroll worthy, Ambassador.\" He awaited the Ambassador to drink before he would partake of the tea, but reached into the folds of his robe. \n\n\"I find this city most interesting and am looking forward to learning more about it. As it so happens, however, I was charged with delivering this to you personally.\"\n\nHe produced a neatly folded letter. The seals of the Phoenix and of the Shiba were perfectly intact. He offered the communique to the ambassador with both hands, head again bowed. The temptation to open the letter had only burned within him for a few minutes into his journey to Ryoko Owari Toshi before his good sense was able to squash the desire to breach protocol. It was dishonourable, after all, to read another's mail and Kentarō knew that he would most likely be made privvy to any details that mattered to him at the Ambassador's discretion. Talk would soon turn to his assignment as an inquisitor, and he had no doubt that his duty as such would be more than enough to keep himself occupied.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "During the transfer of this missive, Sanumo was admitted into the room by one of the embassy's servants. The young Karo bowed deeply to the Ambassador and slightly less so to their guest as he crossed the threshold. The gentle swish of the man's simple, earth-colored kimono softly cut the silence as he strode to the table and took his place alongside it.\n\n« Apologies for the delay, Shiba-sama. I was caught in the midst of filling out some urgent paperwork. It is now on its way to the recipient and I am fully at your disposal. »\n\nThough his appearance spoke of the toll of long hours of painstaking desk work, his gaze cut across their guest. He gleaned what information he could from examining the mons his attire displayed.\n\n*Tsk, another Isawa. And an Inquisitor no less. A double-edged blessing, if I've ever seen one.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon would accept the letter and take a swift sip of tea to allow his guest to partake as well. Sanumo's arrival stopped him from opening it immediately, though his curiosity was piqued by both the clan and his family's seal being on the missive.\n\n\"No need for apologies, Asako-san, Isawa-san and I were simply getting acquainted.\" He smiled, returning the bow and pouring a cup of tea for Sanumo. \n\n\"If anything, your timing is perfect, as our guest was charged to deliver something of import directly to me. I was just about to open it in fact.\"\n\nHe carefully parted the seals and opened the letter to read.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The letter, crisp and white with fine writing, is read as follows:\n\n```To all faithful keepers of peace and righteousness throughout our great Empire:\n\nFirst, it is with profound gratitude and humility that I offer my sincerest respect for the work each of you continue to perform. It is through the actions of your hand and the words of your voices that the domain of the Son of Heaven retains its spiritual health in a time of unrest. Without your strength, neither I nor the Elemental Council would have the reach or resources to perform such an expansive task.\n\nIt is with this solemn duty in mind that I feel the need to inform our esteemed Ambassadors of recent developments. As you are far too well aware, the betrayer Kuni Yori took the Elemental Master of Earth captive, dragged him to the stronghold of Akuma no Oni, and slaughtered him in some unholy ritual in hopes of unleashing a yet greater evil upon our lands. That Isawa Tadaka-sama remained unblemished even when faced with an attempt to desecrate and corrupt his very soul speaks as a testament to his purity of heart. Make no mistake, without his aid even as he lay dying, the Battle of Cherry Blossom Snow would have ended with total annihilation.\n\nIt is impossible to believe the Daimyo of the Kuni acted without the knowledge of others. Hida Yakamo denies it adamantly, yet refuses to allow external investigators—not even the Emerald Champion herself—to verify the truth of his words.\n\nThe Crab are closing ranks around something. I pray it is not vile. Agents of Emerald Champion Mirumoto Hitomi-sama are on the brink of uncovering the truth. Until then, I ask each of you to remain alert, to keep ever watchful against those who claim to fight the darkness, for those who remain closest to it fall the furthest.\n\nSpring blossoms give way to the purifying sun of summer. The day of revelation draws near. Act with surety and purpose\n\nAnd kindly destroy this letter.\n\nShiba Tsukune,\nThe Soul of the Shiba, Keeper of the Tao, Daimyo of the Shiba, and Champion of the Phoenix Clan```\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "Kentarō bowed respectfully to the man who entered the room. \"Asako Sanumo-sama, it is an honour to meet you.\" Seating himself again he took of sip of the hot tea after the ambassador had done so and listened carefully as he read the letter aloud. His previous assignments had given him a view of the intrigue that followed clans and he was always fascinated at the different flavours of strife that afflicted all in different regions. \n\nHe was going to have his work cut out for him. \n\nHe waited patiently for the other men to speak before he would ask any questions, but his mind already whirled. He had hoped to make an envoy with the Crab and their witch hunters as he executed his duty, but now he wondered if that line would be closed to him or worse, a trap should he pursue it.\n\n ||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Trained though he may be in the arts of courtly intrigue, Sanumo was among fellow clan mates and this news, while not unpredictable, represented a notable escalation.\n\nHis eyebrows escalated similarly and he took a short time to figure out the most tactful way to get his thoughts across.\n\n« Shiba-sama, I believe this represents the turn of a new era in Phoenix policy. While one could argue that we could best aid the Clan Champion's endeavors by prying personally into the Crab's operations, I worry that we might risk a repeat, albeit of a lesser scale, of Kuni Yori's example. I urge you to take the prudence and caution this letter urges to heart. »\n\n« Until the Crab can prove their own cohesion and purity, I believe we are best served by keeping our distance and working in public or through intermediaries when we **Must** Interact with them. »\n\nHe had heard Iemon speak hopefully in the past about prospects regarding the Crab. If the ambassador would not protect himself, his reputation, and his soul... Well, then his Karo would have to take matters into his own hands.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon gave a resigned sigh, and nodded. \"Your advice is practical, Asako-san, though it is indeed regrettable. The local Crab I have interacted with have been nothing short of honorable, but we must avoid judging by appearances alone.\" The memory of sharing drinks with Koyama was indeed a pleasant one, and while he had disliked losing his duel in front of the Crab Ambassador, the older samurai's cry to hold had likely saved the ronin's life, shocking Iemon back to being cognizant of his loss. *If he were truly an agent of corruption, would he not have let me sully my honor?* \n\nNot that he could go against the Clan Champion. No one other than the Elemental Council, that is, though in time of war, the Champion was final arbiter of Clan decisions. *And should she fear spiritual corruption of the very Defenders of Rokugan... That day may not be far off...*\n\nFor a moment, the weight of that thought visibly weighs on the Ambassador, and a grim look of resolution crosses his face. \"It is as our Champion says, those who would fight the darkness have the farthest to fall. In much the same way, we must ensure to guard ourselves, that we must not become that which we face.\"\n\nHe clears his throat, straightening slightly. \"Would that you had brought happier tidings, Isawa-san, but it is not your hand that penned the letter.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "The inquisitor leaned forward, trying to absorb as much as he could. With movements of the masters of each clan like a complicated game of *Shogi* With multiple players, every step, even the cautious ones, could lead to disaster. Kentarō was eager to not step into such a trap, and the landscape already appeared thick with them.\n\n\"Ambassador-sama, Asako-sama, I beg your patience as I seek understanding; I am clearly entering the city at the cresting of much tension. The elemental masters, preoccupied as they are, have mandated that I use what skills I have in untangling the Phoenix of anything that may impede the spiritual progress of our clan, or the empire as a whole whilst I am on assignment here. If possible, I would be most grateful for your wisdom in understanding the position of our clan here, our relationships with the other clans, notable members of other clans that would be wise for me to to meet or with whom I could liaise and, if it be wise, an understanding of our clans goals here. The last thing I want is for my investigations into *Maho* Or corruption to inadvertently lead the city, or our clan, into an even more dangerous situation for which we are not prepared.\"\n\nHis voice was even, the air kami to which he had prayed before entering bringing an touch of authority and grace to his words and soothing over any amount of nervousness he might feel. \n\nHe was, in fact, there to do his duty and support the phoenix clan while rooting out threats to Rokugan. He hoped that those objectives were not mutually exclusive.\n\n ||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Apologies, Shingon-san. You are correct in that this meeting has strayed from its original scope. Allow me to reign it back in. »\n\nHe weighed how much to tell the newcomer, a visible - if short - hesitation occurring before he proceeded.\n\n« I will skip over our relations with the Crab since I feel like the last few minutes have elucidated that enough. The Crane, while historically strong allies of ours, have essentially left us to our own devices until they recently extended an invitation to reconnect. We get along well with the Dragon, especially insofar as our feelings towards the Crab, but they appear to have a small - or perhaps quiet - presence in the city. »\n\nPausing, the tea was a welcome reprieve for the rambling courtier, both for his throat and because these facts were realities of his day-to-day existence. Inescapable truths that steered his every action in oft subtle ways.\n\n« The Lion, surprisingly enough, appear to have a more peace-focused bunch present in the city. We have grown close in the Crane's absence and suspect they may share our vision for the city's future. This is not yet any of the Crane's business, I'm sure you understand. »\n\nHe delivered that line flatly, his gaze almost challenging Kentaro to dispute it.\n\n« The Scorpion have been working with us to strengthen ties and increase access to opium for medicinal use. Paired with the Lion, they appear to be our most potent and amicable fellows. The Mantis are largely neutral towards us. We tend to stay out of each other's way rather well. »\n\nAnd then the mood got rather tense, Sanumo ||and likely Iemon as well|| growing uncomfortable.\n\n« We are on frankly awful footing with the Unicorn. A now-ronin Isawa caught a prominent Utaku in the crossfire of one of their invocations. A private duel was held to put an end to the matter, but relations have not recovered. »\n\n||\n\n« As you likely know, the Governor will be advising the Emperor at this year's Winter Court on which Clan he thinks deserved governance of Ryoko Owari Toshi. We have no interest in claiming the city for ourselves. » The words were delivered bluntly and matter-of-fact.\n\n« Our major goals are preserving the peace and stability of the city, ensuring that opium continues to flow for medicinal use, and looking after the spiritual health of its population. We would all do well to keep these in mind. »\n\n« In pursuit of these, we are working towards more tangible goals, such as recovering the missing daughter of a Phoenix provincial governor before her betrothed Scorpion grows further enraged, investigating claims of a crime boss being revered as a Fortune, and other such circumstances. It is also worth noting that there is an ongoing investigation into Meishodo being conducted by Isawa Noboru. »\n\n« Whom you should meet or consult with in the course of your duties really depends on how we work you into these ongoing operations. »\n\nAt that, he ceded the floor to the Ambassador. Iemon tended to have reliable instincts regarding these sorts of things.\n\nThough, truth be told, Sanumo knew how he wished to channel the Inquisitor's talents.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "The shugenja nodded, listening carefully. It was not the way of the Phoenix to seek leadership in overt ways, but to guide those in leadership though spiritual obstacles and he was pleased that their goals in this city were in line with this. He was disturbed at the idea that a governor's daughter was missing, but did not allow his thoughts to yet linger on that particular challenge. Instead, he waited to hear the words of the ambassador before he spoke again.\n\n ||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon pondered briefly. \"Two tasks come most readily to mind as being the most suited to your skills, Shingon-san. The first, as mentioned, is the question of the missing Isawa. From the reports discovered so far, there is a matter of properly honoring a local kami, if I recollect rightly.\" He paused momentarily with a look to Sanumo for confirmation. \"That seems to be her motivation for delaying her completing the journey to her betrothed.\" The fact that her Yojimbo escort had allowed such a deviation was an additional point of annoyance that sprang briefly to mind, but he dismissed the otherwise petty agitation as unimportant. \n\n\"But the question of a criminal being overtly given reverence that should be exclusively reserved for the kami? That is a particular heresy that cannot be allowed to stand.\" There were aspects of this that were troublesome, and the thought of being a cat's paw in underworld games of power, but if there was even the possibility of a cult taking root and guiding people away from the celestial order, it was imperative it be rooted out.\n\n\n\"Given your background, the second seems the most appropriate choice, but both of these are problems we are called upon to solve.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "\"In my experience,\" He said thoughtfully, pausing for a moment of reflection, \"That Kami, once offended and ignored for too long become *Indiscriminate* In how they demonstrate their displeasure.\" \n\nHe cast his eyes between the to men and nodded. \"I am only one man, however. Rooting out the heresy of some *Heimen* Criminal that would place himself above his station seems paramount, especially if he, or she, is gaining followers. Do you have any leads? Where should I begin my labour?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« While the Ambassador and I could give you a primer,-» he took the opportunity to speak, «-there is already a bushi we have assigned to investigate. It is my recommendation that you speak with Shiba Terumi-san to get the most up-to-date information that may not yet have been brought to our attention. » He briefly frowned, the peculiar smiling visage of the man flashing into his mind's eye.\n\n\n\nHe shook his head as if to clear the image away, « But there is also the matter of your safety during your inquiries. Isawa-san » *And that of those around you.* « We have recently enacted a policy that our shugenja should not travel beyond the embassy without a Yojimbo, special circumstances notwithstanding. When you meet with Shiba Terumi-san, please inquire with him about his feelings on assuming that role and get back to me with your findings. I **Can** Find another candidate, but it would be most convenient for this to fall into place. »\n\nHe glanced sidelong at Iemon as if to ensure that he was not overstepping.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Shiba Terumi?\" Iemon asked aloud, quirking a single eyebrow. \"Working with him perhaps, but I don't think it would be advantageous to have him split his time between the investigation and protection of a Shugenja, even if that Shugenja is pursuing the same investigation. An additional bushi would free both of them up to operate independently and cover more ground, both literal and figurative.\" \n\nHe considered their available personnel. \"Shiba Shion has a separate investigation of her own that she needs to pursue, but working with Shingon-san could provide her with more contacts for her search, as well as allowing her to learn the city. I feel she would be a better fit as Yojimbo in this case.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo straightened a little in surprise. It was not every day in which his suggestion was so decisively set aside, rather than accepted or steered elsewhere.\n\n*I could bring up how Shion already lost one shugenja; how it would be just as easy for another to go missing on her watch. I-*\n\nThe realization hit him hard.\n*Iemon used to be a yojimbo himself. He knows precisely what he is talking about and makes this decision regardless.*\n\nIt was not his place to second-guess him. Not now. Not in this.\n\n« Your words ring true in hindsight, Shiba-sama. We shall have it be so. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "Kentarō nodded politely, listening. He was intuitive enough to know that much of the conversation was not being said, but he knew that much would be revealed if he kept his eyes up and ears open, espeically if the Kami had any wisdom to impart.\n\n\"I shall speak with Shiba Shion then, and see how I might be able to assist in her investigation. I look forward to helping our humble efforts in the city to flourish.\" He paused for a moment as he took another sip of his tea, finishing the cup.\n\n\"Is there anything else I might be able to do to lighten either of your burdens, Shiba-sama, and Asako-sama?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« So long as you conduct yourself well and uplift the spiritual health of the city, you will do wonders for my own burdens. Nothing beyond that is necessary at this time - not for me. » He would not, in this instance, speak for the Ambassador.\n\nTo say he was skeptical of how this would turn out would be an understatement, but Sanumo trusted Iemon's instincts. If he thought this would work out for the best, he would stand aside and observe. Maybe he would learn something along the way.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "spectreg57",
"message": "Kentaro bowed his head. \"I will endeavor to pull at these threads while also ensuring the tapestry of Phoenix is maintained.\" He could feel a touch of apprehension from Asako-sama, but he often did from others. \"Thank you for the tea. With your kind permission, I should like to begin my work.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Shiba Shion-san's task, while important, must be secondary to this issue. If you are willing to assist her once that matter is concluded, I would be grateful for your assistance, as I am sure she would.\" The matter of heresy was a much more serious matter than Shion's errant Shugenja, but at least this would be a way for her to serve the Clan *While* Acclimating to the city as a whole. If she were to gain a few leads while doing so, all the better.\n\n\"By all means. Go with the Fortunes, Shingon-san, and I look forward to seeing your efforts bear fruit for our Clan in this city.\" Iemon finished the last sip of his tea and gave a respectful bow to the Shugenja. \n\n||"
}
] | 188 | 5,118 |
321.428571 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "hukkatar",
"message": "*I am **So** Out of my element*, Setsuka thought sullenly as she walked through the streets of Ryoko Owari Toshi. Perhaps it was the city's reputation and size, the amount of people, the gazes her miko attire drew, the strange land, or the fact that she was tired - or a combination of all of those things - but she felt deeply uncomfortable. \n\nHomesickness washed over Setsuka like a wave, not an unfamiliar feeling, but particularly strong today. She missed her small village built around Sanpuku Seido, and the fresh mountain air; she missed the familiar kami of her ancestral lands, and tending to the ancient shrine.\nSetsuka hurried her steps towards the Phoenix Embassy, her only anchor point of relative familiarity and safety in this city. It was only after reaching the calmer noble quarters that she finally relaxed her grip on her wakizashi, an act she had done subconsciously.\n\nThe sight of the embassy and shrine immediately calmed Setsuka's nerves. Although she was on a strange land and hadn't yet formed deep, personal relationships with the kami located there, the shrines to the Seven Great Fortunes were powerful enough that she could sense their presence. She bowed as a greeting to the shrine keepers that tended to the temple, both parties recognizing each other as colleagues, but also being too busy with their duties to talk at length. \nSlowing her breath, Setsuka also bowed before each of the shrines within the temple, praying to them and thanking them for their guidance and help.\n\nMaking her way to the Embassy proper, Setsuka approached the guard at the gate, presenting her travel pass, which also bore the mark of the Elemental Council, a sign of her purpose for traveling.\n\"Kaito Setsuka, shrine keeper of Sanpuku Seido, here on a mission for the Phoenix Clan,\" She introduced herself briefly, suddenly feeling shy.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The ashigaru on duty seemed to pick up on Setsuka's nerves. Exchanging a look and adjusting their stance slightly, one of the soldiers approached. « Greetings, Samurai-sama. A moment to review you papers, please. »\n\nThe silence while they perused the documents likely did little to settle Setsuka, especially with the occasional upwards glance as if to verify that she hadn't suddenly chosen violence. Though the symbol of the Elemental Council spoke to the opposite, the general atmosphere warranted some due diligence.\n\n« Everything appears to be in order. Please be welcome and follow me, Samurai-sama. I will show you to a meeting room and request that the administration check in with you shortly. »\n\nTurning on their heel, the ashigaru guided her into the embassy proper. In short order, she was admitted to a room prone to dark woods, rustic motifs, and paintings of nature scenes. Some few minutes later, a young man in an earth-colored kimono bearing only the clan mon entered in - a servant with tea just behind him.\n\nHis shoulder-length dark hair swishing as he did so, the courtier bowed. « It is a pleasure to meet you, Kaito Setsuka-san. I am Asako Sanumo, the Ambassador's Karo. » He crossed the room and sat himself at the table. As the servant delivered the tea, he began to pour for his guest. « I'm to understand that the Ambassador himself should not be far behind me. In the meantime, partake of our hospitality. If you need anything, you need but ask. »\n\nThe words, though delivered with sincerity, lacked much warmth. It was not that the man had any sort of grudge or irritation with the Kaito, but moreso that this was simply a basic function of his job. He did this because it was proper and expected of him - and for no other reason.\n\nPerhaps that would change with time.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "*The tea has beaten me here, it seems the staff has learned the rhythm I prefer all too well.* Iemon thought with slight amusement as he stepped into the room, another servant opening the door for him. Functionally official in dress and topknot without being ostentatious beyond the flame colors of his orange ambassadorial kimono, the Phoenix mon proudly displayed. \n\n\"Kaito-san, welcome to our humble embassy here in Ryoko Owari Toshi. I hope that your journey was not too tiresome for you.\" He offered a bow of greeting to the two of them, quickly moving to pour tea for this small meeting. \"If you would like any further refreshment, please do not hesitate to ask.\"\n\nHe allowed them to settle in before turning to their new guest. \"I have been told you have been sent here on a mission on behalf of our Clan. What is its nature, and how may we be of assistance?\" His measured tone was polite, but the sincerity and warmth was undeniable. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "hukkatar",
"message": "Setsuka did her best to follow etiquette and good manners when meeting the Karo and Ambassador, such as offering them ofuda she had crafted herself - more artistic pieces rather than practical charms - as gifts. \n\n\"Thank you both for the warm welcome, my lords. I have gotten accustomed to traveling, as I have been on the road for almost a year now, but it is always a joy and pleasure to meet with my own Clan, this far away from home,\" She smiled shyly.\n\nSanumo's politeness and Iemon's genuine curiosity encouraged Setsuka. She cleared her throat and spoke formally, the mission engraved in her mind and effortlessly repeated it:\n\"The honorable and wise Elemental Council has honored me and other spiritually attuned individuals to travel across Rokugan to inspect the elemental and spiritual balance and health of our Empire to ensure its continued safety and prosperity, and for its people to keep receiving the blessings of the kami,\" She paused, before continuing less formally.\n\"In practice, this means I have been inspecting shrines and other holy or elementally powerful locations as directed by the Council. I have a set list of locations to visit, but this list is updated occasionally if the Council receives intel or news of potential locations, or when other Clans have taken care of such instances.\n\"I have also been encouraged to act independently - within reasonable limits of course - to seek out, purify and balance out any anomalies and report these to the Council,\" She finished her summary. \n\nSetsuka took a longer pause to drink some more tea. Its taste was refreshing and she gave compliments of it to her hosts before continuing.\n\"As for what I may need, my lords, if I may so humbly request, is any information on spiritual or elemental anomalies you may have heard of,\" She concluded. Suddenly, Setsuka looked a little sheepish and added: \"And, um, where may I find lodging?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo accepted the gifted ofuda after the typical number of refusals. It didn't seem overly impactful to the man, but the gift's purpose was nothing more than to satisfy tradition - and that it did well.\n\n« Lodging is a simple affair, Kaito-san. The embassy has sufficient space to house you or, if you find that not to be preferable, you may arrange a home within the Noble Quarter for the duration of your stay. »\n\n« As far as these anomalies... There are almost certainly many more than we know of. I am no shugenja, but the two most curious to my mind are as follows: »\n\n« There is a member of the underworld that has garnered a bit of a spiritual following. Shrines have been erected where people worship them as though they are among the Fortunes. We already have other samurai looking into this. »\n\n« The other, which I would personally like your assistance with,-» he glanced briefly to Iemon, «-involves retrieving the missing daughter of a Phoenix Governor. »\n\nHe hesitated before continuing, troubling memories resurfacing before he swallowed stiffly and continued.\n\n« Isawa Komako-sama and her yojimbo went missing shortly after her arrival to the city. We have acquired information that paints a peculiar picture as to **Why**. It appears that she has enlisted the efforts of heimin to restore a temple in the Scorpion countryside. »\n\n« I have no idea why she would believe this to be more important than the betrothal she was en route to fulfill - and I have been unable to reach the temple myself to inquire. We attempted to reach it once, only to have an encounter with... Isawa Kashikoi-san later told me that he thinks they are gaki. »\n\nIt still bothered Sanumo that such things were real and that he'd had such a close call with them. If only he'd managed to adhere to his more spiritual-oriented studies at the dojo, he might find comfort in at least knowing what they were up against.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "hukkatar",
"message": "Setsuka bowed her head in gratitude when she heard she could stay at the Embassy.\n\"The embassy is more than enough for me, thank you,\" She said, sincerely. It was pure luxury compared to some of the run-down shrines or shady inns she has rested in during her journey.\n\nSetsuka listened intently as Sanumo explained the situation with Isawa Komako. At the mention of gaki, her brows furrowed and she pursed her lips.\n\"The gaki are a great evil indeed, and the notion of Isawa Komako-sama restoring a temple fills me with dread. Shrines can be corrupted and turned into malicious nexuses, or even become portals to other worlds - like gaki-do,\" Setsuka thought out loud. \"Of course I do not mean to imply our lady to be evil, but her abnormal behavior may be a result of possession or other such nefarious influences. But these are just theories,\" She added.\n\nAfter a brief moment of contemplation, Setsuka bowed deeply towards Iemon and Sanumo. \n\"It would be my great pleasure to undertake this task, seeing as how this not only involves supernatural elements I have been trained to deal with, but also concerns the Governor's missing daughter,\" She said solemnly. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon followed Sanumo's summary with attention, nodding along to corroborate his words. \"Indeed, Kaito-san, I think your assisting with the matter pertaining to Isawa Komako will be a much-needed addition. The gaki as a more direct threat has been noticed by at least two of the other Clans, from what I am aware. Joining the efforts of removing them will also help to give access to this temple, and allow us to resolve our internal matter.\"\n\nHe paused, considering further. \"Beyond that, I believe our small shrine that we have here on the embassy grounds would do well to have you inspect it as well, for the sake of thoroughness.\"\n\nHe returned the bow with equal solemnity. \"We are grateful for your service, Kaito-san, and your presence.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 389 | 2,250 |
273.111111 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru was annoyed. This had been a much more constant companion to him in his stay in Ryoko Owari Toshi than any time before. Inheriting a negative situation because of his former cousin's ill-chosen actions, as well as the needling of the Karo left him a good deal more prickly than he would like to be, especially in his newer focus of pursuing the Pacifism he had shrugged off in his youth. *My temper had its place on the battlefield, it does not have one here.* He thought to himself, taking an even breath.\n\nHe had been reassigned to a new Yojimbo, having given his previous one the slip to follow the beckoning of the Kami to the marketplace, finding young Naoki. Due to the tensions within the city, it had been mandated that Shugenja not go outside the embassy without their bodyguard present. The young Shiba had been reassigned elsewhere, with Noboru giving assurances that it was his doing and not the failure of the young woman in her duty that had been the source of this.\n\nStill, that left him with the need for a new Yojimbo. A newcomer to the city had been assigned to him, and if he had any hope of being able to freely pursue his investigation, the sooner they were acquainted and expectations were set, the better they would be.\n\nHe had sent a small note to Asako Sotetsu, requesting they meet in the gardens of the embassy. He wore a simple orange kimono with the Isawa mon on it, his staff and wakizashi to the left of his seat, where he maintained a pose of meditation, though at the moment he only idly moved the beads in his hands, his mind focused on the mundane matters before him. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Asako Sotetsu received the note and nodded to himself, checking his kimono for dust again. It was worn a bit thin from travel, but it was clean at last after his journey to Ryoko Owari Toshi. The city still overwhelmed him. He could hear the din of merchants, porters, and shuffling feet beyond the gates of the Phoenix embassy and at higher levels, a constant companion he would be forced to grow accustomed to. Despite the noise, he knew a man could find inner peace even in a place like this, and he took a deep breath as he pulled his kimono on and slipped his sheathed blades into his belt.\n\nSotetsu considered his position. His father had been a yojimbo and had served honorably, though that position had not salvaged the mistake he had made when Sotetsu had been young. Sotetsu had briefly served as a yojimbo as well, though the monk he had served passed after only a year. Now, he may have a chance to prove himself beyond the mundane assignments he had been given so far, and show his worth to his daimyo, and his clan.\n\nSotetsu ambled through the gardens, his eyes drawn to the carefully placed stones and trees. It was artful and simple, and he was glad for the reminders of home. He saw the man with the staff and Isawa robe from a distance and ambled forward with a curious expression. Once he was at an appropriate distance, Sotetsu bowed deeply, and placed his katana and wakizashi before the seat of the shugenja. \"I am at your service, Isawa Noboru-sama,\" Sotetsu said, eyes still on the floor. \"I will go where I am needed and be your sword when you are threatened.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru swept his eyes over the samurai briefly before returning the bow, slightly less deep than the one offered to him. \"It is well-met indeed, Asako Sotetsu-san. You have the look of one weathered by the road as well as by life.\" He straightened, his face softening slightly to betray a grin. \"I have had the pleasure to serve with many like yourself. It is always those who put more stock in performance rather than presentation that were capable of great things.\" \n\nHe gestured for his Yojimbo to make himself comfortable. \"While I hope you will not be put to the test too soon, with the duty I have been charged with, one cannot say for certain. My investigation into meishodo is... A sensitive topic, doubly so here and now after all the trouble locally between the Phoenix and Unicorn.\n\n\"Tell me, how have you served our Clan prior to your arrival to this city? I assume this is not your first time as a Yojimbo?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Sotetsu took a moment to study his charge as he spoke, noticing the poise he held from his physical build. *He seems able to defend himself, which will be a benefit,* Sotetsu thought. \n\n\"I have served the clan primarily at Morning Glory castle to guard the grounds and escort visitors,\" Sotetsu replied. \"However, I served as yojimbo to Asako Honzai in the last year of his life. He was on the Path of Man, and though he had some political rivals who disliked his writings, he was unchallenged by others during his final year, and thus my charge was blessedly peaceful.\"\n\nSotetsu glanced down at the unadorned katana he had lain in front of him. *How infrequently I have used this...* \"I understand there may be risks, but I will be ready to face any challenges we encounter. Please forgive my inexperience in defending a shugenja such as yourself. I received some dueling training in my dojo, so I can answer a challenge to represent you if necessary. Are the ones who practice meishodo likely to make such a threat?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru nodded. \"Most acceptable. Morning Glory castle is a prestigious post, and I have had the opportunity to visit once since retiring from the Tsunami Legion.\" He had noted the appraising look the younger man had given, and regarded that favorably. *Here is one who does not assume much, and relies on his observations to guide his actions.*\n\n\"Inexperience is not a fault that one needs seek forgiveness for. The Fortunes know I would certainly be happier with a little less experience myself.\" The second statement was given with a wry chuckle, which quickly changed to a look of seriousness. \"Mark me, I do not seek to lecture, so do not take offense at this. But speaking from my experience, I can tell you there are reasons pacifism is at the core of the Phoenix Clan. There is much I have had to relearn since returning to practicing what I had disdained in my youth. Experience of that sort will come, but it should not be *Pursued.*\"\n\nHe stilled for a moment, revisiting memories, but quickly returned to the matter at hand. \"In any case. Had you asked me before I had arrived here, I would have told you it was likely unnecessary. From what I have observed of the state of affairs in the city, however... It would be better to be prepared for all eventualities.\" Noboru had no wish to bring up the shame of the Ambassador being presented with a ronin to duel on behalf of the Unicorn. As far as he had heard, that direct infamy had been kept from the Ambassador's doorstep, and he had no reason to deposit it there.\n\n\"The practitioner I have met with so far seems amenable, and there are certainly similarities between our practices that I have noted, but knowing that they are under scrutiny I assume they would have sent someone who would serve to provide the best impression possible, both socially and spiritually.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Sotetsu sat back and considered the possibilities. \"Yes, I understand. If I am honest, I have little experience with the Unicorn. I will keep my eyes, ears, and mind open.\" Then, he learned forward slightly in his seat. \"Tell me, what was serving in the Tsunami Legion like? I have heard of their speed of movement, but have not seen them strike. How long have you been retired from the Legion?\"\n\nSotetsu was curious, indeed. He should not have been surprised that such an experienced shugenja would be deployed in Ryoko Owari Toshi. His \"Prestigious post\" Defending the Asako family palace suddenly felt inadequate, and for a brief moment, he felt a rush to go, to meet the meishodo shugenja of the Unicorn Clan, and to face their problems head-on. Then he chided himself. *Patience, Sotetsu, you've barely arrived in this city. Plenty of time to prove yourself.*\n\n\"I will stand at the ready whenever you are prepared to depart. By your leave, I will ensure that my quarters in the embassy are moved to position myself close to your quarters, and I will accompany you whenever you depart the embassy grounds.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"I retired... Well, within days of the Battle of Cherry Blossom Snow.\" Noboru replied, the lines on his face growing heavy. \"The sight of a true threat, not just of inter-clan rivalry and contesting of resources was enough to show me that my martial focus was... Unworthy.\" He paused, considering. Discussing such things, even within the grounds of the hallowed embassy grounds was inauspicious at best. \"Suffice to say, what I learned on those fields was that the time I had committed to perfecting the path of war left my true development of spirit behind. My master has warned me of this, but in my pride, I had assumed I knew better.\n\n\"There is much I can teach you from my time in the Legion, yes. Speed of movement is something we are renowned for, but that is only a small part of what contributed to our victories.\" He stood, stretching, and shrugged off his outward malaise. \"There will be time enough for that, have no fear. If you are ready, then yes, we should make our way to the Temple District. You will have your chance to gain experience with the Unicorn all too soon.\"\n\nHe picked up his staff, giving a slight spinning flourish. \"You have my leave to seek bringing our quarters closer together. I think it wise to position yourself in such a way. You have a pragmatic way about you, Asako-san. It will serve you well.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "neugebauer",
"message": "Sotetsu heard the hesitation and saw the weariness on Noboru's face. He knew it best not to ask further questions. \"As you say, Isawa-sama,\" Sotetsu said, nodding again. \"I am prepared to depart immediately.\" He gathered his blades and fit them to his belt. A small part of Sotetsu worried that he would be the one protected by Noboru, and not the other way around. \"Also, pardon my indiscretion on this, but... Well, I have not had pleasant experiences with the Unicorn in the past. I will put aside my prejudices for the sake of this meeting.\"\n\nSotetsu stood, ready to follow Noboru to the meeting."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru led the way towards the embassy gate. \"I will not pry into this unpleasantness now, to allow you to better put them aside for the time being. Prejudice can blind you to truths if you let it act as ink, blotting our details in the present.\" He waxed philosophically. \"It can provide some context to present and future events, but the present and the future must provide better context to the events of the past as well. Perhaps it was an abnormal experience? The only way forward is to test and learn.\"\n\nHe clears his throat, lightly. \"Apologies, I have found myself more prone to lecturing when I assume I have a willing audience. If I ramble too much, please stop me.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 257 | 2,458 |
281.636364 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Following Kita's arrival to the embassy and the assignment of her duties, it fell upon the Karo to brief her on some of the particulars. Given that they had just finished partaking in a meeting with tea at hand, Sanumo made the conscious choice not to order more as he walked the new courtier to his office for further discussion.\n\n« I am sure you have many questions. Please allow me to lay out a general overview of the project's scope before we delve into the minutiae. »\n\nArriving at his office, he opened the door and gestured her inside. Despite his station and the duration of his stay, the Karo's space was a rather dull affair. Shelves lined either side of the room that, though they contained a smattering of texts, were about half empty - potential left unrealized. His desk had only a few objects upon it (writing utensils and the like), but everything had a designated place. It was orderly and bland, save for the Asako mon branded into the front face of the dark wood.\n\nHe sat behind the desk and waited for her to seat herself at a chair on the other side before continuing.\n\n« If the Steel Talons project meets with full success, it will be a Phoenix-led dueling organization. There will be five non-administration members whom are duelists of the highest quality that the city has to offer. Periodically, challengers will attempt to duel an existing member to claim their place among the ranks of the titular Steel Talons and the prestige associated with such. »\n\nHe rattled off the information as though reading from a textbook, this portion of the explanation clearly not all that engrossing to him. However, he went quiet at this point and gestured for Kita to speak.\n\n*I've given her very little to go on so far. How she goes about prying for information and tackling this will reveal wonders about the quality of her work and how we might better use her talents going forward.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita followed Asako Sanumo to his office for the additional briefing. She worked to wrap her mind around how quickly things had looked different for her from her home. She was determined to do well by the tasks assigned as to reflect well on her lord and her family. \nHaving entered the office behind Sanumo, Kita had taken in the functional layout of the office with an appreciative glance. She took a seat in the offered chair and listened attentively to the initial explanation provided. Outside of the initial meeting room, her demeanor had become much more business-like.\nAfter what she had believed to be Sanumo's enthusiasm for the project when he first broached the subject to the ambassador, this dispassionate recitation of facts was slightly disconcerting to her. But again, she did not yet know the man well enough to make any determination. Many thoughts that had whirled in her head about the Karo's manner, and the facets of such an undertaking as the Steel Talons would present.\nThe silence while she collected these thoughts stretched almost to the point of discomfort. Sanumo may have wondered if she understood that he had expected her to inquire further.\n\n\"A Phoenix-led dueling organization...\"\nHer thoughts organized, she broke the silence and launched into a series of questions in response.\n\"I am not familiar with 'Steel Talons'. Is this a new designation for this project here in Ryoko Owari Toshi specifically? \nAre there many duelists here? Or something we, I mean you,\"\nShe paused and inclined her head as if to acknowledge whatever planning had gone into the project previously,\n\"Were looking to encourage the development of? \n\"Does this type of ranked dueling society exist in other cities, or among other clans are there similar programs in place this would be mimicking?\nWhat is the current status of the project? What, if any, steps have been enacted as of yet, or is it still in planning stages?\"\nAs she spoke her fingers twitched, rubbing the dark stains on her fingers, and looked as if they were moving along with mental notes she took.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "As his fellow courtier sat in silence, Sanumo did not press her to continue. He quietly unfurled his fan and used it to hide the slight mirth beginning to suffuse his expression.\n\n*Too often samurai are keen to rush in without contemplation. That she knows enough to consider beforehand is already a good sign.*\n\nWhen she spoke, it was like a damn bursting. Question after question flowed as if second nature. He tallied them on his fingers as she went. Once it was clear that there was a suitable opening for him to speak, he replied and lowered each of his fingers as questions were answered.\n\n« Steel Talons is merely a fanciful name that I gave the proposal when I put it before Shiba-sama. It only remains as the name because he approves of it. This is a new endeavor and would only be applicable on the local stage. »\n\n« Ryoko Owari Toshi is home to a sizable number of duelists of varying levels of competency. As one of the largest cities in Rokugan, it makes sense that they would be drawn here for one reason or another. »\n\n« Other organizations of this sort absolutely exist in other cities. I have not yet done any research into their histories so that we may learn from them. »\n\n« No moves have yet been made to turn this from an idea into a reality. It was only recently that I received approval for the project, so there has not been much time to proceed from there. »\n\nWhereas the summary of the project had been delivered in a rather lifeless manner, the more that discussion went deeper than the superficial, the more invested and animated the Karo appeared to get.\n\nMuch of her inquiries were seeking the *What* Of the matter and he was growing ever more eager to get into the *Why* And *How*.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita nodded thoughtfully at the answer to each question, considering the responses as Sanumo provided them\nIn turn. \n\"It is a good name; Steel Talons.\" She announced the name again, testing it. She continued thoughtfully, \"There are is power in the name of a thing. Done correctly such a title could be quite well respected. What do you see such an organization doing for the Phoenix? Dueling is not our typical prevue. With Shiba-sama's approval of the proposal, he appears to see value in it as you presented it to him.\"\n\nAdditional questions welled up inside Kita, including some curiosity if Sanumo had some additional personal interest in this project, but she sat patiently, waiting for him to share more details. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Thank you, Asako-san. Between a courtier's penchant for words and my family's history with the arts, I like to think myself well-equipped to name such things. »\n\nStroking his own ego aside, he lowered the fan. « You are surely correct that this is beyond our usual interests. A wise observation. Allow me to give you the same justification as I did our Ambassador. »\n\nThere was a light to his eyes as he continued, his ownership of this idea bringing him pride. « Recently, the Phoenix suffered a great loss in a private duel against the Unicorn. Specifically, Shiba-sama was bested by a ronin duelist that the Unicorn brought forward. You can imagine how large of a blow that was...**Is** For us and why we refrain from speaking of it in public. »\n\n« It is a fool who tries the same thing over and over, yet expects different results. This organization is meant to make us more aware of duelists in the city, allow us to study their styles and how to counter them, and give our own duelists something to sharpen themselves against. Beyond that, my hope is that the presence of the Talons will help incentivize duels to be used in place of grander conflict. »\n\nHe steepled his fingers and leaned forward, « With this is place, we will be stronger when next we are tested; in mind, spirit, and body. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "At Sanumo's explanation of the lost duel by Shiba-sama, Kita reached for her own fan and snapped it open, having momentarily forgotten that it had been broken along her journey. The ripped paper and cracked fins flopped lifeless in her grasp. She looked down in momentary surprise, then remembrance, and had murmured something about needing to shop for a replacement once she got settled. \nThe brief distraction though was enough to cover her reaction to hearing the true depth of the reasoning behind the Steel Talons project. She listened carefully to the rest of his description.\n\"I... See... Yes, improving ourselves on whatever level is a noble effort.\" She replied in measured tones, falling silent again for a time.\n\"So we would stand to gain on multiple fronts. How do you propose to make such an endeavor a reality? \nWill we start the work with those inside the clan, and build it up from there or do you envision a 'grand opening' of sorts; an open challenge for duelists of the city? Or at least those of clans with aligned interests? How do you plan to get the buy-in of those you want to gather information on? Do you believe it is a 'build it and they will come' situation?\"\nHer questions again spilled out in a flurry before she sat quietly once more.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo couldn't help but bark a quick laugh, the look on Kita's face regarding her fan having caught him well and truly off-guard.\n\n\"My apologies, Asako-san.\" He said, marshaling his expression again, \"I promise that I am taking you seriously. That was just very... Novel.\"\n\nHe waited as she made her inquiries clear, then answered.\n\n\"Well, to get this off of the ground, we will need initial members to fill the ranks. Shiba-sama has requested that we contact the Crane regarding this. They recently held an Iaijutsu tournament as part of the Spring festival and would surely not object to us saying that those who placed highest are the city's best. That would fill four of the five slots we're hoping to have and then we could request the Crane put forward their own best duelist as a show of good faith on our part. \"\n\n\"At every turn, these actions should mollify any concerns the Crane might have by appealing to their authority regarding the art of the duel. Not to mention the practical considerations in that this saves us time in sourcing candidates.\"\n\nHis face took on a more serious cast. \"The city is in a particularly tumultuous time at present. Many clans are seeking every advantage they can get to seem greater than their fellows. If that alone does not draw duelists to prove themselves, I trust you will work to cultivate interest. I would, of course, supply you with what resources I can towards this; you need only ask.\"\n\n\"However, before any of that occurs, we need to verify the laws that pertain to such things. While I am certain that something like this is permissible, we may have to adjust somewhat to meet regulations.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita had allowed herself a small smile at the Karo's laugh at her own expense, assuring him no offense was taken. \n\n\"Tumultuous indeed... But you have actually answered what my next question would have been-to try to start something of this nature without consulting the Crane seems unwise, stepping on toes and whatnot. Recognizing the winners of their tournament both shows good faith, as you say, in what exists now and saves some initial work.\"\nShe continued to speak, having appeared now to almost be thinking aloud rather than speaking to the conversation.\n\"I would need the list of those tournament finalists, who to speak with from the Crane about filling the remaining slot, and eventually speak to the finalists themselves. Maybe an exhibition- a demonstration of different techniques, and perhaps an announcement when the opportunity to challenge them will take place; encourage those possible challengers to sharpen themselves in the meantime... \"\n\nRealizing she had been rambling out loud this time as he sat quietly watching her, she paused, and looked at Sanumo with an apologetic grin. \n\"My apologies Asako-sama. As you say-step one will be to verify applicable regulations-how will I need to check on this?\"\n\n|| I think I'm keeping up so far. Question though-would it be kosher to provide those recognized as Talons with some mark of the title, a medal or badge of sorts they could wear? Not sure how that would be viewed carrying something of a status from outside of clan/family. If so, would see about commissioning something for that as well."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"You need not apologize, Asako-san. Your eagerness does you credit.\" It was a relief to have another courtier around that seemed to genuinely take well to the work at hand.\n\n\"My recommendation is to visit city hall, either independently or with an appointment made in advance. I would recommend Seppun Arata, the Secretary of City Records under the Imperial Ministry of Territories, if you choose to make an appointment; he recently helped me look into another legal matter. Do be mindful of his... Eccentricities though.\"\n\nHe refused to elaborate on that point.\n\n\"If you cannot acquire the list of finalists while at city hall, you ought to be able to receive them directly from the Crane. Asahina Tadayasu should be a good person to contact; they can always redirect you from there, if need be.\"\n\nPausing, he leaned back in his seat and assumed a more neutral, serious expression. \"Ultimately, I am content to let you chart your own path with this as long as you deliver suitable results. Whether you do as I suggest or not is largely irrelevant to me. If you need resources or advice, you can always contact me and I'll make myself available within reason.\" He wanted to impress upon the new arrival that he was not here to babysit, but to support her efforts.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita gave Asako Sanumo a reassuring nod, her expression calm and confident, \"Of course, Asako-sama. I believe I have the answers to my questions, and certainly enough information to get started. I will report back with updates once there is measurable progress. May the Fortunes see our endeavors to success. Thank you again for the welcome and confidence to see this on from here. Any other instructions before I go settle in and see about making the initial appointments?\"\n\nKita turned her attention for a brief moment to folding and tucking the offending fan back into her sash, then focused back to Sanumo to await any other further details he felt necessary to provide.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"You are very welcome, Asako-san. Let it never be said that I do not give my kinsmen the opportunity to prove themselves. I have nothing more to share at this time.\"\n\n*Maybe if it becomes pertinent later on...*\n\nHe couldn't help but swell with anticipation as he echoed her words: \"May the Fortunes see our endeavors to success, indeed.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 304 | 3,098 |
146.454545 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "After their Lion guest has left the premises on such a high note, Terumi can't help but smile widely at the karo. He had a lot of revelations just by being present in the little meeting they had with Ikoma Miho and the amusesment on his effeminate face was clear as day.\n\n\"Did things turn out the way you expected, Asako-san?\" He politely asked, tone laced with obvious mirth.\n\nHe was certain that the meeting was productive but looking back on things, he was more uncertain about the underlying meanings shared between the two. Observing from a side was enlightening as it was amusing but he cannot help but ponder about the words unsaid and the weight of the actions done by the Lioness and his fellow Phoenix.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "It was perplexing to the Karo why Terumi was so visibly... Giddy? There didn't seem to be much cause for it, but it was true nonetheless.\n\n*Perhaps this is simply the facade he wears. He wouldn't be the first samurai to erect one as a means of self-defense.*\n\nHe shook his head, \"Truthfully? No, they did not. I'm relieved that my gift to her was so well-received, but I worry that my gift was **Too** Good and that we may wind up stuck in a loop of trying to adequately mollify one another for a time.\"\n\nA slight frown stuck itself firmly to his face. \"And her inquiries into my matters of station were unexpected, if brief. I wouldn't have expected her to have any interest or even to be concerned with such things at a more non-business function such as this. Though she certainly prepared herself as though it was a much more formal event...\"\n\nIt was entirely possible that there was a gulf in expectations between the two. He would have to be conscious of that going forward to make sure that he didn't inadvertently offend Miho in the coming days.\n\n\"What about yourself, Shiba-san? Was this meeting everything you wanted?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"Do you think that there might be a misunderstanding somewhere in the conversation?\" He politely asked, managing to return his smile into a courteous one. He was still amused but the Asako might take his mirth the wrong way.\n\n\"Might I also point out that she rather boldly accepted your gift the moment you offered it for the first time,\" Terumi helpfully suggested.\n\nHe had his own suspicions but now after the meeting was done, he was growing a bit uncertain, doubtful if what he saw and suspected were the truth of things.\n\n\"The meeting was enlightening, Asako-san.\" The young man said with a firm nod, smile growing a bit wider as he spoke. \"Like you, it did not go the way I expected but it seems that you aren't too displeased.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"I suppose there could be a miscommunication, but the way in which she accepted the gift, as you so aptly pointed out, seems to indicate otherwise. Hm...\"\n\nIt would certainly be on his mind for days to come.\n\nIn a bid to steer the conversation elsewhere, he switched gears. \"I **Was**, however, happily surprised to find art a topic of discussion! You wouldn't think me so fond of it based on how I keep my work station, but the value of a good piece of art cannot be overstated.\"\n\nIn this, at least, he was able to come closer to matching the Shiba's exuberance.\n\n\"I noticed you stayed rather quiet throughout. Do you practice an art yourself?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"Asako-san I am not as surprised to know of your liking of art. Ikoma Miho-san however? I must confess that I fell for what hearsay and widespread opinion tells of what Lions are as people.\" \n\nHis smile dimmed a bit, surprised that his superior didn't pick up that the Lioness might view him in a different light, favor him even.\n\nIt ... Really wasn't his problem and if there was obliviousness, which he doubted, he was certain that someone as astute as Asako Sanumo could figure it out soon enough.\n\n\"I elected to remain quiet because the two of you were quite engrossed with your discussion. I felt it was impolite to interject often. As for art ...\"\n\nHere the young Shiba's smile widened to the disquietingly familiar one he often sported.\n\n\"... The only art I practice is that of the sword, Asako-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He laughed in spite of himself upon hearing that Terumi had thought the Lion to be devoid of any artistic interests. \"They are still samurai, Shiba-san. Nothing will strip them of that.\"\n\n\"I apologize for having pressed you out of the conversation, as it were. Your caution does you credit, but I wouldn't have taken offense had you involved yourself more.\"\n\nHe raised an eyebrow, \"While I do not deny that the sword is as much an art as any other, I do not know that I would enjoy pursuing an art that is intrinsically linked to my everyday activities. It is good that you find purpose in it, however.\"\n\n*Even though I take great pride in my works, I can't see myself devoting every fiber of my being to them. A person, even a samurai, needs a reprieve from time to time.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"There's no need for apologies, Asako-san. It was interesting listening to your conversation with Ikoma-san.\" His words came with a polite chuckle. He was, indeed, pleased with what he had observed.\n\n\"The sword has been with me since the moment of my birth and, with luck and the blessings of the kami, it would be with me in the moment of my death.\" \n\nTerumi had been an adherent to the way of the sword. Nothing in this world would take him off of that path. For good or ill, his father had said.\n\n\"But worry not, Asako-san, I do have other pursuits that I do enjoy aside from swordsmanship. I have an interest in gardening, as a matter of fact.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Ah, gardening! You'll be quite at home in this city then. The Scorpion are renowned for their own gardens and the Lion's Taisa has been cultivating a garden of his own within their embassy. I recommend that, if you have the opportunity, you pay it a visit.\"\n\nIt seemed much easier for Sanumo to be eager about less... Violent arts, as could be seen evidenced by how readily he skipped past Terumi's remarks on them.\n\n\"If you have need for it, I could requisition you some materials and a small amount of space for personal pursuits. I'm sure the kami would appreciate a splash of color in their midst.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"That would be very appreciated, Sanumo-san.\" Terumi said, inclining his head in a grateful short bow. \"While the way of the sword does not bore me, gardening would be a productive hobby to while away the time in the embassy.\"\n\nTruthfully, he wouldn't have thought of broadening his skills in gardening if the karo did not express support for such an activity.\n\nBut since he offered, why not take the opportunity given to him?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Certainly. I will evaluate what we have at our disposal and send a letter detailing what we are able to provide.\"\n\nIt was the least he could do. After all, what sort of Karo would he be if he did not give his subordinates room to grow?\n\n\"That said, we should likely return to our duties. I have appreciated your company today, both in front of our guest and in their wake. Fortunes watch over you, Shiba Terumi-san.\"\n\nBarring any intervention from the Shiba, Sanumo rose and made to return to his office.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"And to you, Asako Sanumo-san.\" \n\nTerumi inclined a respectful and thankful bow. \n\nIt was a wonderful meeting and a serene day, indeed.\n\n||"
}
] | 153 | 1,611 |
303.952381 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana was certainly not her usual self as she approached the Phoenix embassy. Even with the audience being already arranged, being right amongst her family's progenitor clan was awkward, to put it mildly. Her manner was more reserved, her smile more forced, and her posture more tense. Still, she had no intention of being aggressive or hostile; she reminded herself this was a discussion, and that the ambassador had indicated that he was willing to speak with and hear them out.\n\nShe glanced over to Mai. \"I thank you very much for accompanying me, Moshi-sama. Especially given how, well... Absurd the situation is.\"\n\nShe suppressed a chuckle. On paper, the whole thing seemed entirely unlikely. Yet it had happened, and had been yet witnessed by another clan's magistrate.\n\n\"I'm hopeful things will go, well, though.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"It's only right,\" Moshi Mai replied, \"You are under my command as long as we're in this city. I should be there when such incidents need to be sorted.\" \n\nAll the same, Mai wasn't looking forward to the meeting. It came out of the blue, just as the incident in question, after all. But, Mai wasn't keen on going to places with many Pheonix. Not that she was afraid of them, per se. But as a Moshi, there was always an odd relationship between the Clan and family. \n\nMai made sure to dress much more conservatively, to make sure they didn't get written off as they might had back home, and carried herself with distinction and grace, or as much as the pirate turned ambassador could manage. \n\n\"Now, I've only spoken to Shiba-sama once,\" Mai told Kana, \"And that was back at the conference, which was... Interesting to say the least. So, we should be polite, but firm on the fact that this slight must be dealt with. All the same, we won't get pushy; heavens know that the Pheonix have thier problems nowadays.\" \n\nSoon enough, they would reach the front entrance, where they would let the servants or guards know that the Ambassador and Magistrate of the Mantis Clan have arrived. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The door warden quickly gives a respectful bow, disappearing inside to inform the ambassador that expected guests had arrived. Within moments he returned, opening the door wide to accommodate their entrance. \"Please, Mantis-samas, right this way. Ambassador Shiba is expecting you in his office.\"\n\nHe led them inside and rapped lightly on the outer sliding door before opening it and bowing. \"Ambassador-sama, the representatives of the Mantis.\" \n\nIemon rose from his seat, giving a bow from the other side of his desk. \"Ambassador Moshi-sama, Magistrate Moshi-sama, welcome. Please, make yourselves comfortable. May I offer some tea?\" Iemon had put himself together adequately for this meeting, since they had been kind enough to inform him of their desire for an audience in advance. He had a feeling from the tone of the letter it was likely to be bad news. *But at least this is a more cordial way to receive it than being publicly called out in front of the embassy.* He thought to himself, absently tugging the sleeve of his kimono over his left arm fractionally lower on his arm. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"Right... That was my thinking exactly. I don't want to let this pass without any action. Not just on a personal level; how are the Mantis to be respected if we do nothing in the face of... Whatever that was?\"\n\nKana was indeed trying to put the big picture first. She had been insulted, yes, but in truth, she had been more bewiledered by the Samurai's rather bizarre actions. She couldn't possibly imagine that he had been acting on behalf of the ambassador, awkwardness between the Moshi and the Phoenix aside.\n\nShe had followed Mai's lead, adopting a full length kimono, less flashy earrings, and minimal makeup. She was reserved in her mannerisms when the warden arrived, bowing politely and following them inside. As she approached Iemon, she bowed lowly. \"It is an honor, Ambassador Shiba-sama. Tea does sound lovely.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai bowed before Iemon as he did for them, all according to proper etiquette, and she accpeted tea, as Kana had. \"That would be lovely, Shiba-sama,\" She said, \"Whichever you prefer will do for us as well.\" She kept herself cordial, as she didn't plan to make a scene anyways. With the course of things and a possible alliance on the line, it was best to show that the Mantis could be just as courtious as the Crane or any other Great Clan. \n\nOnce they were seated and tea was on the way, Moshi Mai got down to the heart of the problem. \"I wish I could say we were coming under good tidings, Shiba-sama, but unfortunately that is not the case.\" Mai didn't frown, but she showed her disappointment in the current situation. \n\n\"You see, it came to my attention from Magistrate Moshi-san here that a Samurai of your Clan had some rather disrespectful and downright fraudulent things to say about her.\" She looked to Kana, and nodded. \"If you would, Moshi-san, explain what occurred in your own words.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"I have recently received some Golden Needle tea, I hope you will find it acceptable.\" Iemon gestures for the servant to retrieve the tea and some cups for the three of them. \n\nUpon hearing the reason for their visit, he leaned back, face guardedly neutral. \"Perhaps something stronger for after the tea may be in order, if that is the case.\" His voice sounds somewhat light-hearted, but the humor does not reach his eyes as he turns to Kana, patiently waiting to hear of the situation that had transpired. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "Kana nodded, taking a deep breath before beginning the story as directed.\n\n\"Well, I was conducting my usual walk around the docks in the morning. I purchased some pork buns, and then I decided to treat myself to a bit of dessert.\" She considered for a moment singing the virtues of the stands and recommending them to the ambassador, but her better judgement signified that was maybe not the right approach to take at the moment.\n\n\"I then encountered a man in orange robes, bearing the Phoenix's mon, following amongst the crowds. Nothing unusual on its own, but the way he darted behind people and tried to hide behind them was... Unusual. That said, unusual is no trouble, so I went to place my order for dessert. It was then I saw a rather conspicuous parasol, the open end pointed at me. I wasn't sure what to make of it... When I saw that same man plant it in the ground, dart between groups of people, and then roll behind a building. And I do mean roll. He did not walk, it was similar to a somersault...\"\n\nKana smiled a bit akwardly. Just relating the story, she worried she sounded like a madwoman. Yet she knew she had to speak to what happened.\n\n\"At this point I will admit to being somewhat suspicious. So I made the decision to head down and have a conversation with the man. When I approached him, he assumed a ready stance and beckoned me towards him, as though challenging me to a fight. Of course, while I've seen this with enough drunken sailors to know what such a gesture means, I wished to be certain, so I asked the man if this was a jest, or if he intended to challenge me. He responded by stating that this was not a jest, and my supposed indignance meant he had reason to be suspicious of me. What exactly he was suspicious of, he did not say, but I do know he was not of the Thunder Guard, and that I certainly had given him no reason to be suspicious of me. Naturally, I told him that his implications were unfounded and disrespectful, that he had no business conducting surveillance on me when I am well within my right to be in the city, and that if he did not intend to apologize for the slight, if he would prefer I take it up with you, Shiba-sama.\" \n\nShe took a breath, already knowing the story was a long one, but there was still one to go. \"It was then he insulted the Mantis, calling us privateers and saying that meant there was reason enough for him to be suspicious, implied I was a danger to the people that it was his duty to stop, and then told me he would levy an accusation of obstruction of justice simply for speaking to him. At this point, I told him his actions were dishonorable, his accusations and implications unfounded, and that he should reconsider his course and apologize. It was then the Dragon Clan's magistrate, Mirumoto Katsumi-sama, appeared, and attempted to ask what happened. I recounted to her all of what I have recounted to you. On the other hand, he proceded to advance upon me, standing scarcely inches from my face, attempting to intimidate me, claiming he was on patrol and I was shielding myself from his justice. At this point, the Dragon magistrate asked for proof of his allegations.\"\n\nKana sighed, and shook her head. \"Because there was no wrongdoing he could actually cite to a third party, he attempted to apologize, but it was an apology lacking in truth and sincerity. His apology was for being 'brusque' in a criminal investigation. At no point did he acknowledge his insults, his aggressive behaviour or that he intended to make false accusations to discredit me with no provocation whatsoever. It was then I left the encounter alongside Mirumoto-san. Thankfully, he made no attempt to follow me afterwards.\"\n\nShe bowed her head towards Iemon. \"I thought it pertinent to request an audience, as I know we would wish the same if there was one bearing our clan's mon and colors, insulting and threatening libel against our Samurai. I thank you once again for receiving us.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai chuckled at the tension-relieving joke, but much like the ambassador, it wasn't humorous. It was more just to ease things. They weren't there for blood, after all. This was a simple matter of honor, and surely they could get things sorted without making a major scene. Besides, with the state of the Phoenix at the moment, Mai wasn't expecting much pushback. \n\nAnd so, she sipped tea quietly as Kana recited the exchange. It was far less amusing the second time around. Admittedly, Mai had snorted and guffawed at the horribly direct and misplaced attack on her magistrate. 'You are a Mantis, so you must be up to no good!' What a laugh riot! She had to make certain that this fool wasn't in blue instead of orange, the way that hate was tossed out like that! But now... Well, she had to remind herself. A samurai of status, a magistrate and a _shugenja_ at that, was insulted to her face. If Kana was more inclined (or more impulsive like her superior), she could have dueled him in the street. Luckily, she had some sense. \n\n\"As Kana-san has expressed,\" Mai added, \"This simply cannot go without some sort of repercussions. It is the duty of all Samurai to report nefarious goings on, of course, but stalking another and accusing them baselessly goes against Bushido and the basic rules of a civil society. As a very _uncivil_ woman myself, I know all too well that in such cases as this, things can come to blows and make for a nasty conflict, especially when one deems it wise to insult and instigate a fight with a Daughter of Amaterasu.\" \n\nMai sipped her tea to let her words sink in, before adding, \"Be as it may, Shiba-sama, we've come here, willing to drink tea and speak in private as we are, so that this can be dealt with without making a scene. Unlike with the Unicorn, no one was injured and the only victim is my Magistrate's honor. I stake my own honor to say that she speaks the truth, so I implore that you view her words as such, and act accordingly.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon is politely silent as the tale is delivered to him, having quickly poured tea for his guests before they had begun. He had brought out his fan and idly given it a few flicks in the early stages of the recounting of events, but as it neared the middle, and this purported Phoenix's conduct, he had brought it down into his lap, and subconsciously was gripping it tightly in both hands. By the end of the recounting, and the Mantis ambassador's remarks, he realized and looked down, mildly surprised at how white his knuckles were. \n\n\"Indeed, it being brought to my attention post-haste is something I am abundantly grateful for, please make no mistake, but I am afraid I must disagree with you, Ambassador-sama.\" He pauses, giving a slow blink to collect himself before continuing. \"The honor of your Magistrate should not be so downplayed, as obviously she has shown herself to be both capable and honorable to have been granted such a title. This matter will be treated with all due seriousness.\n\n\"As you say, with recent history in mind, my Clan's reputation has been severely damaged already by the unabashedly poor judgment of individuals who have too proudly borne our Clan mon. I will not brook such things to happen lightly, nor ever again if given my choice. Please,\" He says, turning his gaze to Kana, \"Did this man identify himself, apart from bearing our colors and mon?\"\n\nAt that moment, a minor commotion was heard from the front of the embassy. A servant opened the door with only the most cursory of knocks, their face distressed. \"Ambassador-sama, Mantis-samas, a thousand pardons for the intrusion. There is a Shiba Obikawa who *Insists* On being allowed in to this meeting.\"\n\nThe sudden silence immediately following this statement was only broken by a loud and sudden snap from Iemon's lap. He absently placed the broken halves of his fan to the side and folded his hands in front of him on his desk.\n\n\"Send him in. Do not bother fetching tea or a seat for him, please, Setsu.\" The servant nodded, hurrying away. \n\n\"Please forgive me my small display. As you both will likely imagine, events have led me to be more tense than I am wont to be. I hope that my hospitality is not poorly reflected in this.\"\n\nObikawa is let in by a servant, stiffly bows to the Phoenix ambassador, and pointedly ignores the two Mantis samurai. \"Ambassador-sama, I came as quickly as I could, wishing to report suspicious activity I had observed while on patrol.\" He shoots what seems a triumphant glance at the two Mantis, seeming confident in his words.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"I must admit to a failing on my part, Shiba-sama. Mirumoto-sama and I, after he declined to identify himself, dediced to leave him to his devices in case the situation escala... Ted...\"\n\nKana trailed off as she heard the snap of the fan, and then saw Obikawa enter the ambassador's office, her mouth hanging open slightly as the immediately recognized the towering figure. There was no doubt to be had there; this was the same \"Peculiar\" Man who had accosted her earlier. As though his apology needed further proof of insincerity, it seemed he intended to continue his absurd crusade.\n\nAs she saw him glance to Mai as well, she covered her hand with her mouth as she suppressed a snicker at the madness of it all. Was he now going to include an ambassador in his ravings? One he had never yet met until this point?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "It was good to see that Shiba Iemon intended to take this matter seriously, and he seemed more inclined to follow it to the book than Mai had offered. Hopefully he didn't take it as her baiting him; she really just meant to cut some slack to the stumbling Phoenix Clan, to show some of that Moshi compassion. She couldn't help but agree with him all the same, and didn't argue his points. \n\n\"I appreciate your conduct and the way you're handling this report,\" Mai said, \"And while it is truly a serious infraction, I think that the ridiculousness as to how it came about allows some grace to be shown on our part. If this fellow had gone as far as to try to subdue or arrest Moshi Kana-san, we might have a-\"\n\nShe was cut off at the announcement that Shiba Obikawa was _demanding_ an audience. The ambassador flicked open her fan to chuckled behind it. \"Really now? This man is either the boldest Phoenix in history or the most foolish.\" She kept it up, as the words spoken behind it were not truly hers, and tried to compose her smile. \"By all means, Shiba-sama, I find this perfect! We'll nip this in the bud, right now!\" \n\nAnd so, in came the Phoenix at the crux of the issue. Mai's eyebrow twitched at being ignored, though she held her tongue for the moment. Centipedes were deadly things, and faster than they looked, so there was no need to lash out _yet._ \n\n\"Oh my, this must be a great report, to interrupt business between two _ambassadors!\"_ Mai's fan came down, and her smile was thin but friendly, her eyes smiling as well. \"Please, Phoenix-san, I would love to hear this report. If my Magistrate was up to no good, I would need to know _immediately_ so I could deal with it. Though, I should note that the punishment would be harsh. Broken fingers, exile, execution if it was horribly vile. I'm a woman that strives for compassion, but that also means I have a deep passion for punishing criminals, _liars, and ___charlatans.___ So, please, tell me of Moshi Kana's crimes, post haste! Justice must be served!\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The look of recognition on Kana's face was all that Iemon needed to act upon. The interrupting Phoenix began to give his report, though markedly more unnerved than initially due to the effect of beginning a meandering statement of 'patrolling the docks,' when Iemon held up a hand. \n\n\"Shiba-san, you will pardon my ignorance, but I do not recall seeing your travel papers, let alone having anyone assign you to patrol any area of this city. Provide those for me.\" \n\nIemon takes the offered papers and begins looking through them, but was hardly sparing them any attention. \"Are you a magistrate of our Clan, to perform such a patrol of your own initiative? Was there something that particularly drew your attention to the docks?\" He asks, making a show of looking intently at one particular section of the papers. \n\n\"Well... No, ambassador-sama, but my duty to protect our Clan's interests was my motivation.\"\n\nIemon makes a slow nod, bringing his eyes up to the offending Phoenix. \"So, you took it upon yourself to insult the upstanding samurai of another Clan *While she was on her assigned duty* For the sake of... What? A suspicion? You have *No* Jurisdiction to do so, and your impudence only adds to the difficulties of our Clan. Poor judgment has led to the Phoenix looking like *Fools,* And your actions only serve to exacerbate what is a difficult situation. Pray tell, how is this in line with our guiding philosophy of pacifism? To seek to provoke in such a crass way serves our Clan *How?*\n\n\"Ambassador-sama, I have my reasons, and they *Are* Good ones. I just require-\n\n\"*Silence.*\" Iemon interrupts, his eyes flashing. \"I have already too much of a mess to finish cleaning up as it stands here. To have you barge into the embassy after gravely insulting the honor of a higher ranking samurai, *And to ignore giving any due respect to that samurai's Ambassador,* Is the height of idiocy. You will apologize. *Now.*\"\n\nThe standing Phoenix paused, giving a half-hearted apologetic bow to the Mantis delegation. Suddenly he turned back to Iemon. \"You do not understand, Shiba-sama, the *Threat* That they pose cannot be ignored. To do so is the height of foolishness.\"\n\nIemon gave a slow blink. \"The height of foolishness seems an apt phrase. Tell me, how tall are you, so that I may know the exact height we are discussing?\"\n\nThe samurai grew red at the implication, and opened his mouth to speak further, but Iemon spoke out, louder and faster. \"At this point, I am deeply hesitant to approve these travel papers, because you seem intent on doing little more than destroying our efforts for peace in this city. To let you settle here would be to set a stumbling block within my own path.\"\n\nThe standing Phoenix clenched his fists. \"You keep talking about the efforts you are taking to rebuild, but I remind you, *I am not responsible for your past failure to keep others in check.*\" The disrespect and anger in his tone unmistakable in the enclosed office.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "She would never admit it, but Kana felt an odd sense of relief at seeing that even Obikawa's direct superior was not immune to his misdirected self-righteousness and paranoia. Of course, after that relief came the horrified shock that *Oh, he is actually going to say this.*\n\nKana immediately felt torn about whether she should speak or not. On one hand, the insult to herself and her ambassador, and to Iemon was egregious, and she didn't want to simply let it slide. On the other hand, she didn't want to accidentally give Iemon the impression that she didn't trust him to discipline his own Samurai. At the same time as well, Mai was here on her behalf, and it felt cowardly to say nothing if she was getting brought into this matter.\n\nSo, she decided to keep it brief.\n\n\"Samurai-san, you extend your insults to me to everyone in this room. Surely there must be some part of you that sees the dishonor in your conduct!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "Mai was amused, very _very_ amused. She had to cover her grin with her fan as she watched the tearing down of the Shiba, especially when it turned out he hadn't even bothered to get his travel papers approved. So, some random Pheonix came to town and tried to pick a fight with the one clan (second to the Lion) that would throw down for honor's sake? Hilarious! \n\nBut, Mai was a good ambassador and hid her smirk and kept her cackle inside. It was only when Kana raised her voice that she spoke up again. \n\n\"Moshi Kana-san.\" She put a hand against the woman's shoulder gently, and flicked her fan shut. \"Don't waste your breath on this matter. He insulted you, and me as well, and not to mention Ambassador Shiba-sama, but this is hardly a man worth anger.\" Mai looked at Obikawa, and scoffed. \"This fool would only make your honor decrease, if you wasted breath on him. Truly, this is a man -a _boy,_ really- that hoped to come into Ryoko Owari Toshi with the goal of quick dividends and glory, by any means necessary. All he's done is make an ass of himself, and try to put Shiba Iemon-sama in _more_ hardship. Do me a favor, Obikawa-kun: Leave the schemes to the Scorpion. Or at the very least, the _educated?\"_\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon would openly flush with anger at the last remark of the overstepping Shiba. \"*How dare you?*\" He says, his voice betraying barely restrained wrath. \"I will make myself abundantly clear, so that you may understand my meaning without any ambiguity. Your travel papers are not approved. You are to leave Ryoko Owari Toshi to your *Betters* And return from whence you came. If I hear another word out of your impudent lips, you will either be renouncing your family name or taking three cuts to cleanse yourself of the dishonor you heap upon our family and our Clan. Now *Nod* If you understand, and get out of my sight.\" \n\nThe rude Shiba's mouth had attempted to form some sort of retort to Mai before Iemon had cut him off, and with a cowed nod, departed the room as abruptly as he had entered. \n\nIemon gave a short sigh, his eyes flickering to his broken fan. \"I must beg the forgiveness of you both. Some sort of malady must have taken hold of him to forget himself so blatantly. I will be writing to his lord immediately after our meeting is concluded, to ensure he gets the *Help* He clearly needs.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "It took every bit of Kana's restraint to avoid displaying her satisfaction at the samurai being put in his place. She knew this was a difficult situation on top of other difficult situations being placed upon Iemon, and that this was no time for mirth. Once they had left the embassy, though? Then it would be another matter.\n\nShe bowed her head towards Iemon. \"Your apology is accepted, and I thank you for your care and attention to this matter, Shiba-sama. I know it must be difficult to see such behavior. I hope that his lord can help instruct him about the expectations of how a samurai should conduct themself. Your efforts in this are most admirable.\"\n\nShe did not voice this, but she did think to herself if he might find himself another imagined case of evildoing to investigate on his way back home...\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "And that was that. \n\nMoshi Mai watched the man get torn down by the three of them, and shamelessly she relished watching Obikawa flounder when her biting comments riled him up. Very amusing! He was rather fetching when he was being bullied. Too bad he disrespected the wrong Clan. \n\nMai bowed to Shiba Iemon, finding his apology and his actions more than satisfactory. \"You are forgiven,\" She replied, \"As far as I'm concerned. If my magistrate is satisfied, you'll find no more qualms with me.\" She glanced over at Kana, who indeed seemed to be pleased with the outcome. It was a shame that her first visit to the ambassador was for such a thing. \n\n\"Now then,\" Mai sighed, \"That's all settled. Swift justice is the best justice, and all wrongs are righted. And all on the same day while Lady Sun still watches, too. I doubt I could ask for more.\" She sipped her tea, and set the cup down. \"I _will_ request that you allow me to post a few ashigaru near the gates to make certain this fellow leaves the city, post-haste. Don't take this as distrust in you or your own guards; This fool might try to slip about the shadows again, and it'd be best for the both of us if we make sure that doesn't happen.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Thank you both.\" Iemon replied, giving a small bow as he expressed his thanks. \"I have no qualms with taking such precautions, and would be happy to lend the aid of our own ashigaru in this matter. The more certain he is properly seen out of the gates of the city, the better.\" A small compromise of cooperation which would hopefully be taken as a sign of goodwill and sincerity in the actions that led to Obikawa's discharge from the city.\n\n\"It is unfortunate that your visit would be over such a troublesome individual. Perhaps we could set a more cordial and social visit between us at some point?\" The Mantis ambassador had been quite reasonable to let things be concluded without much in the way of public fanfare, a blessing to the Phoenix who were otherwise greatly damaged in the public eye. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "theyarnmonster",
"message": "\"I am indeed satisfied,\" Kana spoke, hopefully giving some additional measure of comfort to the overwhelmed Phoenix ambassador. \"I defer to you both on your wise judgement of any additional measures to be taken.\"\n\nWhile she paid careful mind to her choice of words and and her expression, on the inside, she was grinning with the delight at the reaction the poor fool might have had to Mantis *And* Phoenix soldiers standing by, making sure he did not see fit to show his face in the city at all.\n\n\"Your invitation honors me, Shiba-sama. I would be most pleased to accept such an offer. Another meeting under better circumstances would be most delightful!\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "the_lawman",
"message": "\"I would love to,\" Mai said, \"If time and duty allow. This life of ours is a busy one, Shiba-sama, as you can plainly see.\" The ambassador finished her cup of tea, and let Kana say what she wished. She seemed to be in better spirits, now that it was said and done. And with Iemon agreeing to let their men keep an eye out for Obikawa, they had satisfaction and recognition, too. They'd make a good show of it, so this fool of a coward learned never to cross the Mantis again, lest he end up _limping_ away to his lands. \n\n\"Now then,\" Mai sighed, \"I'm afraid that I have other business that needs tending to. Scheduling was surely Fu-Leng's doing, as it never seems to provide anything but stress and fatigue, hm!\" Mai stood up, and gave a deep bow to Iemon. \"Shiba Iemon, you have done well in my eyes, and I respect your swift justice and respect for me and Magistrate Moshi-san. May our paths cross on kinder terms, next we meet.\" She would wait for Iemon to say his goodbyes, thus dismissing them, showing a touch more respect.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon stood and gave a deep bow to them both. \"I hope that such kinder terms and better circumstances may come to pass, ideally when there is a little more time available.\" \n\nHe straightened, glancing between them both. \"Thank you again for bringing this issue directly to my attention so that I could address it with the swiftness it merited. Had we risked allowing one such as him to remain in the city in times such as these, there is no telling what sort of damage might have been done. Magistrate Moshi-sama, Ambassador Moshi Mai-sama, may the Fortunes favor you both.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 238 | 6,383 |
254.714286 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "It had been a long time since he had arrived, but eventually someone found him and brought him to his lodging for the time, to which Naoki, tired of wandering all day simply closed his eyes and passed into deep slumber. \nThe night passes and come daylight the servant who brought him there, and may the kami bless him for this, had also brought a vessel of hot water to freshen him up.\nAfter his impromptu bath and another question of where one's laundry could be hung up later he was on his way to the Karo's Office in spare garments, not as overly formal as his tea set but not as rough as his mercantile garb.\nIt took a couple turns but he finds himself back again, the wandering giving him ample time to figure out what to say.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Amidst his modest quarters, Sanumo slowly whittled away at the myriad paperwork required to keep this embassy afloat. It wasn't exciting work, but it was dreadfully important (doubly so now that this was an Imperial holding) and he treated it as such.\n\nWhen a knock came at his door, he briefly jolted, the flow of his work disturbed. Papers were quickly shuffled and sorted to their proper places so as to seem more presentable for a guest. « Please enter. » he called out.\n\nWhen Naoki would admit himself within, he would be greeted with the full simplicity of the office before him. Shelves lay half-filled with books along the left and right walls, the lowest portions of each converted into locked cabinets. The back wall featured a modest window to supply light for reading.\n\nThe only other furniture were the desk and chairs. The desk was made of a sturdy, dark wood and featured three mons branded into the front in a descending column; those of the Phoenix, Asako, and Asako Loremasters. Atop was a metal scroll rack for incoming missives to be stored upon, as well as custom indentations and grooves in the desk's surface for convenient placement and storage of the various tools and goods necessitated by his profession. Other than that, the only decorative flourish was a bouquet of yellow carnations and lobelia flowers sat upright within a vase. The chairs were basic ; not quite comfortable or uncomfortable.\n\nFrom one such chair, he rose and offered a suitable bow to the visitor. « Isawa Naoki-san. I trust this is important. » He gestured to one of the chairs for him to sit. « Should I have the servants arrange for tea? »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"I hope I would not trouble you for too long Karo-sama that we should trouble the servants for less.\"\n\nReturning another suitable bow to his host he ponders the given question.\nWould having to take tea too early in the morning be such a pain he would risk discourtesy just to deny it? \nA firm yes is Naoki's answer.\n\n\"I wish to clarify, expand and continue our discussions on my task here, such as to where shall this piece of mine, this bustling marketplace be placed?\"\n\"To whom shall it be gifted to and what materials do you permit be used in the expense of its construction?\"\n\"My apologies for troubling your work, but I would not wish to trouble you in the later in day when you have more pressing matters to get too.\"\n\nKeeping his gaze low and scanning the room he gazes upon the only piece of decoration in the vicinity, that hue of purple and yellow might just do for that lady's dress, keeping in the colour of the bustling midday sun in that afternoon .\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "For an Isawa, Naoki seemed unusually apologetic and cognizant of the needs of others. It was certainly better than the alternatives, but was still unexpected enough as to be noted.\n\n« Your concerns are appreciated, Isawa-san. Trust me when I say that this is only a mild imposition, especially given that it so directly links into your purpose here in Ryoko Owari Toshi. »\n\n« I feel like it is fitting that your first full piece be gifted to our own Ambassador, Shiba Iemon-sama. The creation of a visual reminder of the harmony and cooperation that we strive to protect is an honorable task and something that he will very much appreciate and use to meditate upon. »\n\n« Where he shall choose to put it is unknown to me, but I will facilitate it to the best of my abilities. Similarly, I am willing to sign off on any materials you may need, so long as they do not burden the embassy overmuch. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Ah, alright then Noboru-dono requested it after all.\nHe will to see to it to question him later about himself and where he would like it hung. \n\n\"Understood Karo-sama, then I request that I set my materials up a spare room somewhere with a window as in here, larger the window the better, the paint needs to dry and I cant risk it being exposed to the outside too much.\"\n\"For another request, since I have not yet been assigned a yojimbo for the moment and not quite familiar with how the market is priced here, aside from the stores of ink and paper here, I would like to be supplied with certain materials in the Unicorn or Mantis market.\"\n\"Just a few samples for testing, but if my previous attempts where any indication I believe the koku spent would not be wasted.\"\n\nWater can easily ruin paintings just as easily it can be used to make them, and no matter how much he adjusted with it, the pigments that the passing Unicorn sold could never reach it full hue.\nJust as a sauce dropped on one's fine garments it could always be wiped off and leave nothing but a echo of what brilliant shade it was, a stain and nothing more and placing another stain when it dried up could enrich the colour to certain unsatisfactory degree. \nBut... What if the medium or surface was different this time?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "As Naoki clarified his needs, Sanumo produced a fresh piece of paper and began cataloging them.\n\n« We should be able to arrange something suitable for you in the short term, though I am no stranger to the fact that art requires space and many accoutrements. If, as you become established, we need to work towards getting you a separate facility in which to work, only say the word. »\n\nHe didn't bother to acknowledge the remark on koku. Such things were beneath a samurai's notice until necessity proved otherwise.\n\nPutting his signature and seal to the paper, he folded it and leaned forward to extend the page over the desk. « Give this to the first servant you see upon leaving my office, Isawa-san. They will take note of the goods to fetch from the Mantis and Unicorn markets, as well as begin preparing that additional room for you. If I had to guess, it will be on the second floor with a window that faces Amaterasu when she rises. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"To have Lady Amaterasu's gaze on my work as she rises is just enough for me, that room would just be enough for me, although I cant say that for others, fickle things we artists are.\"\n\nThe Karo must think so highly of Noboru-dono for him to shell out a good amount for a gift, in addition to being lordly enough to not mind the expenses it takes to make a quality work of art, truly the ideal patron any artist could have.\n\nNot wishing to waste of his Karo's time he takes the paper and deeply bowing Naoki goes to make his leave.\n\n\"Thank for your time and attention Karo-sama, I will make sure to produce a work that the embassy can be proud to have, I assure this Karo-sama, one that can stand through the ages as a memory of the peace the city has and will be having.\"\n\nTurning past the door he sees an aforementioned servant and makes his requested goods noted down to be purchased later, it was a shame he wasn't assigned a yojimbo just yet but given the circumstances it would be understandable.\n\nThe cloth making up the sails of the Mantis' kobune as white as the snow one can make it, naturally resistant to water.\nThe bright pigments the Unicorn have brought over to the empire as well the local varieties as well as a seed oil purified so clear it wont tarnish the pigment dust.\nAnd most importantly the servant was given a drawing of a glass plane and what has been described as a pestle, certainly not one has ever saw before, all of these to make a one of a kind painting.\nThere is also a request for milk of any kind along with an amount of honey as much as one can comfortably carry together.\n\n|| this a good scene to end?"
}
] | 209 | 1,783 |
271.733333 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Asako Yamanosuke had settled into his new role and quarters as best and quickly as he could. He had a satisfactory briefing with Shin, the heimin-at-arms running the guard since the departure of the previous Taisa. Coming into this new role, while seeming dauting, Yamanosuke welcomed the challenge.\n\nAs a former tax collector, he has an understanding of the political structure of the lands back home. He was hoping that Shin would have some insight into the politics of Ryoko Owari, as it has a reputation for some of the less than savory characters who inhavit the empire. There must be a breeding ground for the ciminal element, and why not Scorpion lands? The Kami, Bayushi, did volunteer to be the enemy of the empire (or so the stories say).\n\nYamanosuke had also been given the invitation from Asako Sanumo-sama, that a Lion emmissary may hold an audience as a favor and offer some of the tutelage of Akodo's Leadership. Truly an honor to behold, and surely a favor from Sanumo-sama to the Akodo Emmissary and Ambassador of the clan to pass up or take for granted.\n\nThe morning sun broke into the open window of the garrison. Yamanosuke took his morning tea in the glow of warmth. It reminded him of the comforts of home and in the house of his grandfather. Truly a sight to be hold, the sun rising over the forests of Kyuukai. He would often take his tea while the sun would burn off the mist between the branches in the upper reaches of the forest.\n\n\"Perhaps today...\" Yamanosuke whispered to the winds as they passed the windows and kissed his chin."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The demands of the Phoenix Karo were many and insistent, enough so that he often began burning the candle, so to speak, before Lady Sun graced the horizon. He'd spent some time in the lead up to her arrival gazing out over the embassy, contemplating what the day would hold and what it might be keeping in reserve - a strike hidden beneath the soon-glaring light.\n\nHis eyes settled upon the garrison and he considered what it must be like for their recent arrival. Sanumo had signed up for a posting above what would be expected of him, but Yamanosuke had no such luxury of forewarning; it had been thrust upon him.\n\nIt would be good to monitor the situation and ensure it was as suitable a fit as he and Shiba-sama hoped.\n\nIn the interim between Captains, Sanumo had taken to doing what he wished with impunity as it pertained to the garrison and its ashigaru. Taking advantage of that, he offered a nod of acknowledgment to one such soldier as he passed, but otherwise walked into the barracks without a word or a request for permission. Spying the Captain further in peering out a window, he approached and announced his presence.\n\n« Asako-san. » he bowed. « It is good to see you. How have you been settling in? » His words were kind, but his face was a sheet of calm professionalism.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Sir!\" Yamanosuke turned and bowed abruptly from his knees as he hastily set his tea upon the tatami, hoping it would land elegantly and not overturn.\n\n\"Asako-sama, I did not expect you, today. You are of course welcome to join me.\" He gestured, before looking to his tea and cup, knowing now that his cup land landed sideways, lightly saturating the surrounding area of the tatami mat nearest his right knee.\n\n\"I have found my post to be solemn, thus far, sir. Shin has briefed me on some of the goings on before my assignment.\" Yamanosuke raised his gaze to meet that of Sanumo.\n\n\"I fear that while he knows his station, Shin-san may have held back some details. I know that this is the land of secrets, Dono. Surely there are political ramifications to my being assigned as there are hidden wheels turning out of sight of the street. Perhaps Shin had not the knowledge of the station or of the environment in which he waded.\" \n\nPerhaps Yamanosuke was too trusting of his new lords, but he had yet to provide reason to doubt his skills or ability. He looked to Sanumo about his offering of tea and realized that his cup had not landed as intended. He began to straighten the cup and avoid a slight stain at the knee from the encroaching saturated tatami mat."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He nodded in acceptance of the bushi's offer to join him, seating himself wordlessly and listening to what burdened his kinsman. His gaze did not break from the Captain; not to study his surroundings or even to visually acknowledge the spill. Best to let him save face.\n\n« A truth of our empire is that every action can be viewed through a political framing. Your appointment is no exception. There are those who might see it as displaying discontent with the previous Captain's performance, uncertainty of our safety in the city, preparing should the Unicorn again posture outside of our embassy... » he rolled his hand as he prattled on through myriad options.\n\n« In actuality, it is important to us to have a capable field commander present. The city's underworld is tempestuous and is home to at least one heresy that we have learned of, not to even begin discussing a host of gaki discovered in the surrounding countryside. »\n\nSanumo went quiet as he remembered the one that nearly claimed his life, his hands unconsciously clenched tightly. His gaze, while upon Yamanosuke, clearly was seeing elsewhere for a few moments before he returned.\n\nSwallowing stiffly, he continued. « Times are uncertain and we must remain capable of reacting with the flexibility and strength demanded of us. Hence the importance of your role. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"I shall endeavor to live up to your expectations, Asako-sama.\" Yamanosuke bowed low to his Ambassador's Assistant. \n\"Political or not, I have a duty and will fulfill it to the best of my abilities.\"\n\nDelicately, he continued, \"Shin has told me of the Unicorn incident.\" He took a pause to gauge his superior's reaction. Studying his breathing a moment, he pressed on, \"I can assure you, Asako-sama, that I would see my life forfeit rather than ride the waves to allow an act so terrible. While I would like to believe my clansmen better than that, my promise to you, Dono, is that my sword, my life, my service is to the clan.\"\n\nHe bowed low again chin-tucked. His bend at the waist sharp, and intentional. Yamanosuke attempted to put on his best military-face in Sanumo's presence. His chest swelled with his next breath, proud of his duty.\n\n\"Forgive my forward thinking if it oversteps, but perhaps it would be good to seek an audience with the Unicorn clan for an introduction. It could show them how seriously the matter has been dealt with and considered within our embassy.\"\n\n\"I do not pretend to be a politician, Dono. My training is dojo-based. My sword is sharp and my bow is at the ready. My political acumen, however, has never sharpened.\"\n\nHis tea-cup now uprighted. He began to pour - first in Sanumo-sama's cup, clean and untouched upon the tray, then in his own."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo took a drink of his freshly-poured tea, both to quench his thirst and to allow him some time to center himself. When he came up for air, he replied.\n\n« Your reassurances are most welcome, Asako-san. I have had much cause to be critical as of late and it is fortunate that you intend not to be counted among my problems. »\n\nHe let out a dry, mirthless chuckle. « That said, I certainly don't mind you sharing your ideas - not so long as they are framed as such. » \n\nSetting his cup down, he laced his fingers together and sighed. « I wish that I could advocate for you seeking an audience with the Unicorn, but their Ambassador is a very... Particular sort. I fear that she would find something to take offense over, real or imagined. » His admiration for Kazuko ran deep, but that didn't stop him from recognizing how volatile she could be.\n\n« However, the intent behind your suggestion is admirable. If you wish the Unicorn to see us as acting with due severity, my suggestion would be to do so beyond the bounds of any embassy. Either meet other samurai and impress upon them this severity or, as is more likely to bear fast fruit, find a way to show them. »\n\n« Word travels fast in Ryoko Owari. If you can propose a task, set yourself to it, and see it through, people will know. »\n\n« That said, you have new power at your fingertips. Have you given thought as to what you will do with it? »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Not directly, Asako-sama.\" Yamanosuke just realized the true weight of his new station. 'Power at his fingertips' was nothing that he ever thought he would hear associated with his duties.\n\n\"I am still trying to get a lay of the land, both physically and politically, my lord. The political aspects are new to me.\n\n\"I would take it upon myself to review the training regimen of our troops here. While I still await a meeting with the Lion Ambassador, as you have so graciously offered, I feel it would be prudent to show face to the Ashigaru as well as the Bushi that serve the Clan here. They need to know that I am here and intend to see them trained properly and regularly. A samurai lives to serve, and a bushi must always be at the ready.\"\n\n\"I feel it would also prove wise to get to know the lieutenants and platoon captains and establish expectations for them. I would also entertain the notion of establishing contact with the local law enforcers. I know little of the city aside from the Embassy. It may prove useful to establish a relationship with the local or dare I venture to say, the Scorpion Clan Jizamurai and yoriki.\"\n\nYamanosuke paused a moment to allow Sanumo to express his thoughts. He was interested to see any reaction and his body language at the suggestion of Phoenix outreach. Yamanosuke was a tax collector/enforcer back home. He was very familiar with those he had interactions with, and helped him establish expectations. This is what he knows and his thoughts were to apply that to his current situation.\n\nHe also wondered how much power he has at his fingertips and what the extend of that power could be.\n\"H-hmmmmmm. Excuse me, Asako-sama. I fear I have spoken too much and have become parched.\" \n\nA sip of his newly poured tea would surely afford his conversational guest to respond and perhaps give some light to his new responsibilities and ambitions."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He listened attentively, being careful not to make overmuch noise when he partook of his tea periodically. It didn't take a scholar to tell when the bushi had had enough though, clearly going outside of his comfort zone. At that point, Sanumo nodded as though everything made the utmost sense.\n\n« Our previous Captain made a point of overseeing our garrison on his own. Should you wish to do the same or deviate is your right, though it excites me either way to see how earnest you are in ensuring their capabilities - and those of our bushi. I look forward to hearing what they have to say about you. »\n\n« As far as those beyond our clan... » he considered for a long moment, « ...I think your instincts are correct. Learning of the Thunder guard and the Clan Magistrates that enforce the law can only be to our benefit, starting with Magistrate Bayushi Yuto-san, of course. » It had not slipped his notice how readily Yama had brought up meeting with their would-be allies and he would be foolish not to encourage the notion.\n\nAt a likely confused look from Yama, he clarified. « The Thunder Guard are a local phenomenon. If Magistrates are investigators and judges, the Thunder Guard are the enforcers and police. I'm told that they mostly keep to themselves and deal primarily with problems that either **Must** Be dealt with or occur directly in front of them, if you understand. » His gaze conveyed the gravity of the dishonor he spoke of.\n\nTheir corruption was an open secret, if you could even call it a secret at this point. But they had quite a sum of sway and power, so they had to be duly considered.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"I am interested in this Thunder Guard, dono.\" Yamanosuke remarked. Placing his tea cup carefully at his side. \"Do they have structure and who might they report to? Is that known to us? I can see value in having them <an intentional pauseon our side in a moment of crisis.\"\n\n\"I mean no dishonor, dono. But would you have any connections with the Bayushi Magistrate and would they have any connection to the Thunder Guard?\" While marching into the den of the Scorpion doesn't always make sense, given his situation and selfishly looking out for his own success, he thought it wise to introduce his presence, even if it is less than confident to his own ego. In Yamanosuke's experience, exuding confidence in one's own self, is just as much of a weapon, sometimes.\n\n\"I'm only hoping to relate to them on an -enforcer level. Perhaps there is a budget for such relations?\" He couldn't help but squint at the notion of bribery, especially in front of his lord's assistant.\n\nYamanosuke's gaze turned toward the floor in a silent apology. His cup was empty, now. He thought it best to wait for words to leave Sanumo's lips before reaching to refill his cup."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« The internal hierarchy of the Thunder Guard is mostly opaque to me. It is helmed by Daidoji Sho who in turn reports to the Governor or any delegates he should select. » The information was delivered in a blasé manner, as though it was uninteresting or rote.\n\n« As for Bayushi-san, » the Karo perked up, « he happens to be the first Scorpion I had much of a conversation with. I could get you an audience, should you wish. I am not sure the extent to which he is involved with the guard, however. They used to report directly to the Scorpion though, so... » he intentionally trailed off, the implication set.\n\nAt Yama's final inquiry, Sanumo stilled and looked on at his counterpart with a blank expression. After a few tense seconds, he shrugged one shoulder, « I wouldn't have thought you the type. Yes, that is within our means. » Bribery and the like, while unfortunate, was simply how the empire functioned. Honor and efficiency could be (and was) frequently sold by those of lower character.\n\nNot that the Karo could be bought, of course. Only that he knew the song and dance.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Hai, dono.\"\n\nYamanosuke bowed, and absorbed the words from Sanumo-sama. Would I so willingly tread into the Scorpion's den? Would it be more prudent to wait and be reactionary? Am I overstepping the scope of my duty to the Phoenix?\n\n\"I would appreciate the opportunity to form a plan, Sanumo-sama. Perhaps we could bait the Thunder Guard into a meeting of sorts. I will inquire of Shin and some of the other heimin as to their interactions, perhaps.\"\n\n\"Is there anything that my lord Shiba-sama requires of me? I know it has been some time since we spoke last. I wish to remain as available as possible to his command. Surely the Ambassador has many visitors and would require some protection from time to time.\"\n\nYamanosuke thought to himself a moment - if we are all guests here at Ryoko Owari, surely someone has the ultimate responsibility for safety. \"I can only do my best, Sanumo-sama.\" Yamanosuke bowed again. \"I am of course open to suggestion and guidance. I await your invitation from the Lion clan to expand my knowledge.\""
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« You may plan until such a time as circumstances force our hand in one way or another. It is good that your instincts trend towards deliberate, purposeful action. »\n\n« As for Shiba-sama... » He paused, appearing briefly pensive. « There are no tasks he has specifically requested you for. I'm sure he would welcome an additional pair of hands to escort him to and from meetings, however. It would also help you become more intimately acquainted with our overall situation. You should propose as much to him directly. » \n\nSanumo returned the bow, albeit to a slightly lesser degree. « Your thoughts are in the right place, Asako-san. I am certain that your actions will follow suit. Know that you are free to act as you see fit, so long as you clearly do so under your own authority and not that of the Ambassador. Should you need higher authority, you know where to seek it. »\n\n« And... I will prod the Lion about their support. It has been some time. » It didn't sit right with him, but if they were half as busy as he had been recently, it only made sense. « That said, I should be about my business. »\n\nHe turned halfway as though to leave and then hesitated. « And Captain? This garrison is your domain now. You and your men are not strictly required to admit me entry at-will. » It wasn't a reprimand so much as a statement of fact. With a Captain appointed, so long as Sanumo did not suspect neglect of the grounds, his duties did not entitle him to such access.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Arigatou-gozaimasu, Asako-sama,\" Yamanosuke bowed at the Ambassador's Assistant's departure. \n\n\"You've honored me with the post to this station. I am humbled, dono.\" He raised from his seated bow, respectfully.\n\n\"If you have the time, dono... I would appreciate a good word with Shiba-sama. I will request such a meeting with him should he find my presence helpful and required.\" He bowed again as Sanumo exited.\n\n\"Until then, I will continue to be ready. The men will be ready, dono.\" \n\nHe waited for Sanumo to leave or address his statement, and remained in a most-respectful bow from the seated position. Looking up from his bowed gaze to the feet of the Ambassador's Assistant, he could gauge when would be appropriate to rise."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Make no mistake, Asako-san. I spoke the suggestion that you take this post, but Shiba-sama is the one that made it so. That said, I doubt you need me to speak well of you to him, but I will do so when appropriate. »\n\nHis expression softened. « I understand well the weight of one's station. Worry is normal, practical even, but you will push past it one day. »\n\nHis placid expression returned and he bowed. « Fortunes guide your hand, Captain. We look forward to seeing what you do next. » With that, he departed.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"As do I, Sanumo-sama... As do I...\"\n\nYamanosuke whispered to himself under his own breath. He returned the bow, and headed to the training yard for his morning workout with the Ashigaru."
}
] | 282 | 4,076 |
201.944444 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon sat in the room for an hour or two after Kazuko's departure. The servants had quickly brought the sake after her departure, and he had taken a few long, warm sips after their conversation. *Tragic. Utterly tragic how this has all fallen apart.* \n\nHe pushed the dejected thought aside. It was late, he had spent long enough stewing, it was necessary to begin plotting a new course. Leaning out into the hall, he caught one of the night staff that remained on duty through to the morning. \"Fetch Asako Sanumo-san, if you please. I must speak with him about all that has occurred.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*Curse the many requirements of being a statesman.*\n\nA servant had woken him from his slumber. Upon hearing what they needed, he paused only long enough to splash his face with water and gain some focus before heading to the room Iemon was currently sequestered in.\n\n*Surely, given the hour, the Ambassador requires haste of me. I'm sure he will forgive that I am not as put together as I might otherwise be.*\n\nHe stopped the servant from opening the door and shielded a persistent yawn from view with his fan. Once it subsided, he gestured for the door to be opened and entered. He steadily fanned himself to help fight off the need to sleep.\n\nHe bowed appropriately and rose to his full height. \"Ambassador-sama. You have need of me.\" He said it not as a question, but as a declaration; as the only reason circumstances such as these could have arisen.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon was seated on the far side of the table, not in the traditional and professional posture he usually was in for matters of state, but casually. He'd had another cup brought and had set it at the table across from him. He returned the bow, gestured for Sanumo to sit, and proceeded to pour into the cup on the table for him. \n\n\"Indeed I do, Asako-san. We must speak of the plan you had proposed, recent happenings, and begin charting a new path through the political wilderness we now find ourselves in.\" *A drink may help soften the blow of this bitter course of events.*\n\n\"I am afraid that circumstances have led to the Unicorn withdrawing their desire to work closely with us. Perhaps you had heard the rumors coming from the Leatherworker's Quarter? Or of Utaku Masanori-sama riding up to our gate and speaking with me?\" He wasn't sure what the younger man knew, but didn't want to assume and leave out any critical details.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo seated himself during the first half of Iemon's address, but visibly stiffened when he announced the Unicorn's withdrawal.\n\n\"I... Yes, I... Have heard something about an... Explosion? And I would be remiss in my duties if I had not heard of Utaku-sama's visit, though not in as much detail as I would have liked.\"\n\nHe huffed once; the lack of clear, readily-accessible information was of obvious frustration to him. \"What is all of this about, Shiba-sama? I figured I would hear the truth of it from you before I pried the truth of it from hearsay, but I did not dare to think it this...**Severe**.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods. \"It is a scandal of great magnitude indeed. The source of this explosion was none other than Isawa Taisei. He had joined with a group of other samurai chasing down a malnourished sword thief, and despite Utaku-sama nearly having caught her, decided to invoke the Kami to stop her. *Aggressively.*\" \n\nHe finishes his cup of sake and thumps it down onto the table hard. Not enough to break it, but audibly much harder than he needed to. \"In doing so, he nearly killed her in full view of the residents of the Quarter, and injured Utaku Masanori. This is what caused his visit, where he and I... Exchanged words. I was of course apologetic and quick to promise to address this immediately, and he had seemed placated, but noted that I was fortunate that it was he who had come himself, rather than Utaku Kazuko-sama, and stated that had she been the one to address it, she would have *Laid siege* To the embassy. When I questioned this, he took it as my questioning his word and honor.\" He sighs, for a moment seeming to deflate slightly. \"I admit, I could likely have reacted better, but I felt he intended to threaten all of us for the actions of one fool, and pushed back.\n\n\"Utaku Kazuko herself came just as I was finishing listening to Isawa's account of the events. In discussing with her, she stated his use of the word 'siege' was more of a militaristic short-hand, rather than what the history books define a siege to be, and that it would have only been employed were I to have resisted justice, which she seemed inclined to grant that I would not. But, regrettably, just as with the fury of Osano-wo, the damage is done.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He knew what he desired to say. That Taisei, Isawa as he is, had followed in the steps of his ancestors in making life worse for the rest of the clan. Sadly, there was likely to never be a time where he could voice such sentiment without consequences.\n\nInstead, after a moment's hesitation, he threw back the sake that had been poured for him and set the vessel back down. His head hung for a few seconds.\n\n\"What will become of him? Does he yet live?\" It was delivered flatly, a hollow arrow seeking answers without purpose. He was reeling, much of what he had tried to cultivate on Iemon's behalf seemed to be falling apart around him.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"He lives. I will be suggesting that he relinquish his name and either take the Path of Waves or retire to a monastery. His last act as an Isawa will be to publicly apologize, and have a duel fought for the damage to the Unicorn's honor.\" Iemon pours another cup for Sanumo. \"Since he does not have a yojimbo of his own, I will be serving as his champion, to face whoever the Unicorn intend to place against me. To first blood.\"\n\nHe leans back, with a shrug. \"It must be done.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*He won't die?*\nThe thought was like flame; dangerous to touch, but drawing his attention. That Taisei would survive, albeit in massive disgrace, did not sit right with him.\n\nPerhaps it was having been woken up or even the sake hitting his system, but he took a risk that he likely shouldn't. « You are a merciful soul. I cannot say that I wouldn't have gone to harsher lengths in your place. »\n\nIt wasn't an admonishment of Iemon's actions; only a notice that the two were not fully of the same mind on this. Not that it mattered terribly given Iemon's higher station.\n\n« I am not as spiritual of a person as I could be, but I hope the fortunes watch over you. A duel, even to first blood, holds a chance for disaster. I... Would be loathe to see you gone. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods, once. \"I have had it mentioned to me before, yes. An unfortunate character flaw that I do not seem likely to remove at this point in my life.\" He permits himself a faint wry smile at the small jest at his own expense before growing serious again. \"Had Utaku Masanori been injured in a truly serious way, or if this girl had died, it likely would have come to that. The disturbance to the Leatherworkers was more than anger at injustice, but *Scandal* That one who was higher within the Celestial Order would call down the kami on one of their own so needlessly. The spiritual imbalance of the city was given an avenue to show itself.\n\n\"There is always a chance for disaster. If nothing has illustrated this previously, this whole business certainly has done an excellent job of educating us on the matter. *We were so close, Sanumo.*\" He says, realizing he had referred to the younger man in a more familiar tone than he perhaps should have. He clears his throat, composing himself again. \"Perhaps, should such misfortune continue, you may get the chance to demonstrate what you would do in my place.\" A small, mirthless chuckle escapes his lips.\n\n\"The Unicorn's terms were steep. Taisei would no longer be allowed to represent our Clan in any way, which I easily agreed to. She attempted to demand that our Shugenja all be policed by members of the other Clans going forward, which I outright denied. The other terms, however... Were quite interesting.\n\n\"She has made it clear they will not take part in a multi-clan government institution so long as the Scorpion are involved. She has also asked that I use what means I have available to sway the Elemental Council in regards to their ruling of meishodo as heretical in nature.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Forgetting to use his fan for it's more courtly purpose, Sanumo showed genuine surprise when Iemon used his first name, but didn't address it amidst all the matters of import being thrown around.\n\n« While I do aspire to greatness, I would not wish for it to come at cost to you. If I should ever have cause to make such a demonstration, it would be ideal if you were by my side, rather than those of our ancestors. »\n\nHe attentively listened as Iemon outlined what the Unicorn had put forth. What they demanded of Taisei's fate made sense. Similarly, it was a given that the Phoenix would shirk attempts to be constrained by the whims of other clans - no matter how good of intentions they might have.\n\n« Do you intend to petition the Elemental Council? You speak as though this negotiation is still ongoing. And... Did she say what changed that she would no longer entertain our proposal if the Scorpion were to be a part of it? »\n\nThe city had been a whirlwind of activity lately, but he hadn't learned of anything that would cause such a decisive change in judgement from when the plan had been originally aired. It may only result in grasping at straws, but it might be possible that a concerted effort could alleviate her misgivings.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon noted the surprise on Sanumo's face. \"Forgive my familiarity, perhaps the sake has loosened me more than is prudent.\n\n\"I gave my word that I would raise the question to them, but forewarned that at best it would only begin investigation into the question of heresy anew. I assume that we will soon have an agent of the Council in the city soon who will be leading that inquiry. It isn't so much that the negotiation is ongoing, but more that I do not have the power to influence the Council, nor would I want to.\"\n\nIemon considered the question of the Scorpion for a moment before continuing. \"She did not volunteer such information, so I would assume at best it may still stem from the attempt to pit her Clan and the Lion against each other in the failed plot of the former governor. I am... Not disinclined to the idea of keeping them out of the plan, but there is still the issue of Ryoko Owari Toshi being in the midst of their territory. I can only see that as an obstacle to stability.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« No, I... » he hesitated. He was used to being on the more circuitous side in how he handled things, but before him was another chance to improve upon being direct when he could. « I was merely caught off-guard, Iemon-sama. » He turned some of the familiarity back in kind. « If it was not, as you suggested, the sake, I welcome your choice to forgo formality. » He didn't dare look at Iemon while he said it; bad experiences with prior superiors re-emerging in his mind.\n\n*If you can't take such risks among friends, where **Can** You take them?*\n\n« While I do not doubt the judgement of the council, it is no secret that they move slowly. Thoroughness takes time, after all. I cannot imagine Utaku-sama wishes for anything more than you've noted. »\n\n« That seems like an important discussion to have with her once tensions have eased somewhat. It is much harder to fully address an issue when uncertain of the source. » He pondered the issue of non-Scorpion holdings isolated within their lands. « I think we should write a letter to the Governor inquiring as to how-» *Or if* «-he would advise the Emperor to address that facet of the situation, were it to become pertinent. If there **Is no** Plan, it makes the Scorpion reclaiming the city or strong arming its rulers that much easier for them. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon smiles warmly. \"Thank you, Sanumo-san.\" He felt a brotherhood of sorts with this man he had worked alongside these long months, planning and trying to execute on a course that would lead the city to peace. This was a setback, there was no doubting that. But talking through things with Sanumo reminded him that just because their initial attempt had been foiled didn't mean their efforts had to end there. \n\n\"The slow growth of the tree is longer lasting than the fast growth of the reed. Whether they reconsider their decision or not, she only asked that I attempt it.\"\n\nHe considered. \"True enough. If there is no plan in place, it is only a matter of time before the Scorpion take it back. Our original plan may have allayed some of their ambition of ruling the city by guaranteeing them a portion of it. I doubt there is much that we could meaningfully accomplish without involving them in some way at the very least.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sage words, all. Whomever made the call to install Iemon as ambassador had made an excellent decision.\n\n« I think it is time that we, at the very least, open up discussions with the Scorpion. Their new ambassador has been making waves, but is still a relative unknown to me. While we discover more about them and their inclinations, the governor can make his will known to us. From the lofty vantage of the canopy, we may then better survey the lands around us. »\n\nAt some point they would have to make the call whether to include the Scorpion in their grand plan, but it was not a move to make spuriously. Rushing and misinformation is what had sparked the imperial governorship in the first place.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"I agree, we find ourselves with two prerogatives to advance in short order here. Meeting the Scorpion has been... Regrettably low on my priority list, but by prolonging meeting them, we have left ourselves without any insight into their current local leadership and their goals. This is a blindness that we cannot afford. At the same time, meeting with the governor may provide us additional insight into the Imperial goal of the city.\" \n\n*In reality, both had been put off for too long.* Iemon thought to himself. *I had all my focus on the promising chances of alliance with the Unicorn, it led me to neglect developing other areas. A mistake that may hinder our efforts going forward.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*Ah, so he means to have a proper meeting with the Governor...*\n\n« I would not presume to give offense to the governor by attending in your stead, but I could handle the meeting with the Scorpion. After all, with the excuse that you had a meeting with the governor, the ambassador would have no choice but to be understanding of your absence. »\n\n*Iemon, you were alone in the silent hours of the night drinking and lamenting our circumstances. You will wear yourself to dust if you continue to insist on helping when it can be avoided.*\n\nOf course, he wouldn't say such directly. Not now. He had already pushed his luck once tonight.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Dividing the effort we put in may be the best way to move forward, I agree. It may not even be necessary to push for you to meet the Scorpion ambassador directly, if he has an aide or diplomat working under him as well. If you can meet them directly, all the better, of course, but making a tentative initial approach will allow them to either maintain a more aloof stance or force them to come and make themselves better known to us.\"\n\nHe nodded, considering further. \"At bare minimum, we have options. The pain of loss is still fresh enough that I selfishly needed to pull you from your bed in the darker hours of the night. I apologize for the inconvenience, Sanumo-san, but please know that I am grateful, both for tonight and for all the effort you have put into shaping this city.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Think nothing of it, Iemon-sama. A samurai is always at their lord's disposal and should strive to be as useful as possible. I only do that which is expected of me. We will find a way to navigate these straits together.\"\n\nTaking Iemon's shift of conversation as a cue for dismissal, he stood, bowed to the ambassador, and began returning to his quarters.\n\n*While this turn of events is... Less than ideal, the winds of fortune are fickle and many. One day, they will be at our backs yet again.\n\nWe need only persist long enough to receive them.*\n\n||"
}
] | 180 | 3,635 |
285.391304 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "The front of the embassy library looked the same as it generally had, a few small tables with their allocated chairs surrounded by rows of shelves and racks of the respectable collection. The back however...\nAsako Kita had made herself at home, balancing time between the initial stages of Steel Talons project and taking stock of her curation duties. It had quickly become obvious to her that over recent time several individuals had *Tried* To manage the collection; several different fragments of organization and cataloging techniques were apparent. The long table she had claimed as her desk was piled with various books and scrolls, neatly stacked papers, and a cleared space in the middle flanked by sticks of charcoal, brushes, and ink well. Other stacks of un-cataloged books piled around with labels laid on top. \nKita stood in the middle of the organized chaos, running a stained hand through her messy ponytail. Her normally fresh kimono showed signs of grime and charcoal smudges. She had looked up a the sound of someone entering, \n\"Hello? I'm just here in the back if you need something.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "After catching up to the political clime in Ryoko Owari, Naoki was dismissed from the Karo's office having being told accommodations will be made for him, after which he fancies a trip to bathhouse would be just the thing that can ease his aching bones after a whole day's aimless wandering.\nComing back to the thoughts of his for the moment abode in the Phoenix embassy, he can already envision what he needs for the requested commission, four and a half jo lengthwise seems nice, no two tsubo and one jo should be the canvas this isn't coming from his pocket after all, and this is not for him but for all of his clan.\nWithout realising it his wandering footsteps had taken him to what seems the embassy library, putting in thoughts of catching up on some inspiration about reading about the markets history and rewriting his spell scroll to fit the situation he is.\nPacing through the rows of scrolls, he hopes for the chance that he can get the chance of acquiring the material which the Unicorn had brought in to Rokugan refer to as glass, which he hopes can be used in the making of more exquisite paints. From the small samples in which he has seen so far, that smooth surface would do good in his planned experiments in mixing in rarer exotic pigments with equally as rare oils as he heard some Unicorn had done. \nHeretical barbarous gaijin they may be, Naoki cannot help, unbecomingly for a samurai, feel envious of their free spirited nature as demonstrated by their adventuring far beyond the Lands of Emerald seeking new and wondrous things, however the commitment to defending the Empire abroad can be brought into question given their stance as of now, but if they maintain the status quo, keeping their given lands and perhaps expanding it outwards not in and recanting their heretical meishodo he would be sure they would be welcomed back into the fold sooner or later. \n\nA voice called out to him as he dwaddled aimlessly in his thoughts, it would be rude not answer.\n\nFacing to where the call was and resolving not to fumble up on his courtesy he heads to the source of the noise, he was still in his semi-formal attire emblazoned with the Phoenix and Isawa mon with a red thread about the symbol for fire to denote his status as tensai so he was as well dressed as ever to make good first impressions he tells himself.\n\nThe short walk to the back of the room brings Naoki to a state of affairs he hasn't seen since his youth, scrolls and books piled on heaps and someone with the Asako mon, funny as it could be, the embassy was really beginning to feel more like home already, it been a long while since has he helped with organising a library.\n\n\"To be amongst the company of kinsmen is a need in these turbulent days, yet it seems that you have needs that exceed mine.\""
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita looked up at Naoki upon hearing his observation and gave him a pleasant smile and a polite bow. \n\"Hello Isawa-sama! Welcome to the library. I am Asako Kita, I have not made your acquaintance yet. In fact, I have not met many of our clansmen here yet, as I have recently arrived myself.\"\nShe glanced around at the state of her attempt to create some order here that made sense and shrugged. She understood that the mess may make some people uncomfortable, and had tried to keep the worst of it contained to this small area. To her, though, she could see the plan-where each item would end up, the vision of a clean and tidy collection where she could easily point anyone to what they required.\nHer smile turned somewhat apologetic and she waved a hand at the nearest pile.\n\"It seems to be looking worse before it gets better. Thank you for your concern, it is progressing. Is there something I can help you find?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Please, just -san would be enough, I am Isawa Naoki, I have only just arrived today and to find some work to be done with company to spend it with a nice way to pass the time.\"\n\nSo it is spoken like a true sociable regular person, a sure sign of proper politeness and humility one may go without, yet it is encouraged because getting people to like him would do some good for him the long run.\nNow if he remembers how the Asako organise things just like his uncle thought him so long ago, then this would be as easy as keeping memories in his mind's room.\n\n\"I do hope I am not intruding or making a mess of things in here, but let's see if we can make this pile less dense than before.\"\n\nAh, did he bring her out of her zone? Was he was being polite enough to offer help?\nHis uncle said he mustn't just willy nilly interrupt him when he is busy and he has to wait to be noticed before trying to help. \nHe was noticed when he entered the room so that makes it fair game, and looking at all this pile of unorganised information waiting to be organised tickles him funny, and helping his fellow Phoenix and making a good first impression would accomplish both his goals in coming to Ryoko Owari.\n\n\"Although I must admit after a long time I may forget how some things are done and I am not familiar with how you personally run it, so if you may, please feel free to correct me.\"\n\nSo Naoki hits across from the mess and sets aside his bundle of canvas papers and his travelling pack to begin the process of labelling scrolls and books their proper names. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita was pleasantly surprised about her visitor's willingness to jump in to get his hands dirty, although it appeared, as she took a closer look, that Naoki's hands were darkened similarly to her own from recent use of charcoal. She held up her own stained fingers with a delighted laugh. \n\n\"Isawa-San, it seems we have some similar interests, or at least similar tools that you use to complete them. Tell me, what have you brought? Is this what brings you here?\"\nShe motions to the pack of canvas he set down nearby with interest.\n\n\"I would be more than happy for the help. I have been here just a few days myself, but have been sharing my time between the library and my other assignment. This is certainly has started out as the less challenging of the two.\" She wrinkled up her nose at the thought of her *Interesting* Visit to city hall.\n\nAs he reached for the nearest stack and started to take down titles she nodded, and moved back to work on her own list.\n\"There, yes. For these I just need to know what is here, if you will take down the names. I was sent here from the Asako library with some requested additions for the library here. I wasn't sure how complete a collection they held, but I must say I am pleased with what I've found so far.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Snapping out of the fond memories of his youth which he uses to remember how knowledge must be catalogued and taking care to not leave stains on paper, he reaches out for the canvas containing the market place, holding it out for her to take and see.\n\n\"Painting is one of the blessings the kami gave me, there was a call for artisans by the embassy which explains why I am here, and these were drawn this morning as was arriving here hence the freshly stained fingers.\n\nReturning to his stack cataloguing and sensing the fire within Kita being stirred up, he takes the chance to let her take up the bulk of this conversation which leaves him to play to his strengths as a listener.\nWith two conversation pieces set up, one being his painting and other being the previous thought he will bring into action, Naoki is assured this encounter won't lead into the dreaded awkward silence he has previously sat through for so many times, someone would be sent to bring him to his accommodations eventually before any topic ceases to be right?\n\n\"With this wide an assortment I'm surprised this library sent for more, although as I peruse through this stack it may be found lacking.\" \n\"Speaking of how have your days been since you came here, and how goes the Imperial Family's representatives in City Hall, Asako-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita looked at the artwork of the marketplace, she was not trained in the arts much herself, but the work appeared skillfully done.\n\"This is a beautiful piece, Naoki-san. And you just did all this thismorning? It is wonderful that the embassy will be graced by your talent. Will you have a specific piece you are working on first?\n\nIn answer to Naoki's question she pondered for short while before answering, \n\"My days? They have been full, but mostly pleasant. I have been settling well into my role as curator here at the library. My visit to City Hall was for an appointment with the Otomo Secretary to answer some questions for the dueling organization project i am overseeing. It was... Enlightening. She provided me the information I requested, along with several requirements for the project. I believe some will be easier to fulfill than others.\"\n\nKita paused again, as if deciding how much to add to her answer. She continued with a wry smile. \n\"I will admit, I have had plenty of opportunity to put my foot in my mouth, as it were, as I get my bearings. I hope for your first few days to go more smoothly in that regard.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Well Kita-san, Isawa Noburu-dono recommended I start making a bigger, more complete version of that piece you have there and the Karo-sama agreed, and since the Unicorn have been slighted by one of my cousins, I plan to throw them a few koku by perusing their wares to use in this endeavour.\"\n\nAlright, he can work with this, they are now first name basis so this means he has been successful at being polite and friendly so far, a significant improvement ever since he left Slumbering Thunder Mountain and his home province.\nNaoki puts down his list of titles on top of his finished pile for the sake of organisation and moves over to another pile of books and scrolls, the piles are starting to look a bit more finished already. \nThe realisation slowly dawns on him, for it seems he will have to actually converse a long while this time, a challenge but a welcome one for someone unsociable like him but if he wants to make his mark he would have to talk to people.\n\n\"My sympathies for your first days and I do hope yours and mine would get smoother from here on, but since it is my first time being in service as an painter rather than being called upon to do assist bushi I do wonder what I am to do, aside from duties as a shujenga of course making sure to keep the well being of the city's spirit, but as an artist I suppose making gifts to the other embassies to keep the peace? Most likely.\"\n\nHe picks up yet another charcoal piece preferring it over ink brushes for this sort of work, they do have less chances of leaving stains, are easier to wash off and are dirt cheap and correctly reading the room Naoki turns the topic from the discomforting city hall and to-\n\n\"Still never thought that we would be the ones to do a dueling organization, what has prompted the Karo-sama to do this?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"I look forward to seeing the finished piece, and the progress along the way. You will have to tell me where to find the work in progress once you get a painting studio set up.\"\n\nKita cast a sideways glance at her fellow Phoenix. He seemed to be relaxing somewhat, possibly even enjoying the conversation beyond the sense of obligation that may have prompted him to join her initially. She found the company was enjoyable outside of the help. \n\n\"To be honest, I was not sure what to expect here, the reputation of the city is at odds with itself; sinister and alluring. And while there is tension; undercurrents of unrest, people are people, coming and going and living life. It has been a good change. We all just do as we are asked, don't we?\"\n\nShe continued on, not expecting an answer to this, content to carry the bulk of the conversation as their hands stayed busy with their task. She moved the completed pile over into a row with several other completed stacks.\n\"Not too much more now...\" She added as she reviewed the remainder. She was broken out of her mental calculations by Naoki's question.\n\n\"Yes-the Steel Talons. Not exactly a Phoenix specialty, although according to Karo Asako-sama there are quite a number of duelists in the city. Publicly it would promote betterment of these individuals and clan relations, and incentivize dueling as a more common means of conflict resolution. I haven't sought out the duelists here at our embassy yet, and I believe there are other newer arrivals here as well, maybe there are some duelists among them whom I'm sure will be among the first challengers of the Steel Talons.\"\n\n*They had better be. If they weren't before they will be now, if they like it or not.* She thought to herself, quirking an amused eyebrow at her own thought.\n\nShe looked up then at Naoki, as if watching his reaction, unsure what information the Ambassador and the Karo had shared during his orientation. \n\"Beyond that, I'm sure you have been briefed on some of the current climate around the city. With that in mind, having an opportunity to keep a closer eye on some individuals outside our own seems prudent.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"You still will be found in this library by then right? I will be sure to tell you.\"\n\nThe time passes by and he finds himself at peace, the flipping of books and the unravelling of scrolls, a foot in reality and another to a happier past. It has been at the least... A decade ago since he had felt safe in the company of others, away from the politics and competition rife within the tensai, coming here was the right choice.\n\n\"Such is the nature of duty, yet at the very least I think, at the Carpenters Wall you can at least your trust your fellow man to stand by you when the Shadows come knocking, but here all reason seems to fall at deaf ears, and all men are making ready to abandon our duty of protecting the heimen who are just going to and fro with their blessedly unaware lives to grasp at each others necks.\" \n\nSo replied Naoki bringing him out of his scroll and book sorting trance for short while to notice a intermediate guide to learning haiku composition in his left hand, is this a sign from the kami for him to actually learn better communication skills? \nMost likely coincidence, but his uncle telling him over and over again seems to convince him otherwise, that even if it does not make sense at first, all things are connected.\nBesides he should be thinking positive thoughts now he is leagues from Slumbering Thunder, there should be no uneducated critics to darken his day now!- so he thought before realising they will most likely be concentrated here more than any other place, maybe he should have never come here at all.\n\nKita-san brought him out of his mental slump by answering his concerns about the duelling organisation, he should go keep asking about that instead of being so gloomy and not ruin the mood.\nHaving opportunity to keep a closer eye on some individuals outside our own huh.\n\n\"Oh, is the Karo-sama gathering all the duellists to our doorstep to see how much our own measures against theirs is that it, and by making sure all the other excuses are acceptable in the eyes of the other Clans and the Imperial Court, the Karo-sama is really taking measures that can ensure the peace in kept here.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita nodded to Naoki's reply,\n\"Given the brief experience I've had with the state of affairs here, any effort to promote goodwill would be well placed. I am hopeful that it will work as intended and not be used as an excuse to escalate tensions. There is still quite a bit of work left to do to make it a reality, but it will come along soon enough.\"\n\nShe noticed the prolonged attention given to the haiku guide.\n\"Are you interested as well in the art of haiku? I have never been able to master it myself, preferring to stick with prose. But I do admire those that have the skill.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Naoki snaps out of staring into empty space and brings his full attention to the current task at hand and the company he has to spend it with, starting to list down titles on a new sheet of paper.\nHe is not good at carrying along conversations, but this is fine they are going along swimmingly well, are they though? \nHe should check on that.\n\n\"Ah, we have the same preferences it seems, although it does not matter whatsoever the form of literature that deigns to land in my hands, I cant help but admire and learn a great deal from their writers.\" \n\"For when it comes to conversing with others, even right now I find it a difficult to convey or parse the intent being displayed sometimes, I am no courtier after all but... Well I did learn right?\"\n\"So while we are on the topic of the Steel Talons, may I ask you about the well being of our other duellists and also our kinsmen in the embassy I have yet to meet, just to ease my nerves about greetings please?\""
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita carried the last few items from her stack that she had reviewed to the completed row and gave him a friendly smile, \n\"Your conversation has been quite pleasant, I have appreciated the company. Did you have family that were courtiers as your teachers? \nAs far as our other kinsmen here, I am sorry I don't have much to offer you. I have met only two others, beside the ambassador and karo. When I first came to see the library, Shiba Terumi-san was here, an odd sort but I believe he may be one of the duelists I need to find again now that I know what questions to ask.\"\n\nShe thought back to that first day in the city, how her head was spinning with the possibilities here, the busyness of the streets, and the strange familiarity of the high stone walls of the embassy. It made her feel even more at home here to have found another friend. A twinge of loss pinged still as she thought about her previous home, her father now alone there. But she pushed it aside. \n\n\"The other aquaintance I've made so far is Asako Sotetsu-san. A bushi from Kyuden Asako. He arrived the same time as I did. He was assigned as yojimbo to Isawa Noboru-san. I do look forward to meeting others as our respective duties permit.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "Shion would tacitly admit to herself; she did poorly in places that were unfamiliar to her, and the City of Lies was as foreign to her as the sands beyond the empire's borders. So she took to things bit by bit, familiarizing herself with the embassy first, its different rooms, wings, shrines, and surrounding enterprises. The Library was an especially important location, as she would have need of the information stored therein for the sake of her investigation.\n\nThe door slides open easily, and Shion notes the usual dust and stale air of an archive seemingly absent here than the many others she had encountered in her tour of duty. This place had been put to use recently. Perhaps then she would not need to search overlong for what she might need with a suitable curator in place.\n\n\"Forgive my intrusion.\" The bushi breathes from under her scarf, stepping into the room and looking about. She could tell immediately there were two bodies speaking in the back, their voices softly muffled by the shuffling of paper and the many shelves of scrolls arrayed about.\n\nThe idea of speaking with others casually stirs a hesitance within her, memories of the unnerved looks of her peers back home adding a tension to her shoulders that she struggles to undo. Surely her reputation has not preceded her here. But eventually it may well catch up to her, and then what will her clansmen think?\n\nIt matters little. Acquainting herself with the library and its curator is part of her duty as well as any other. With that she clenches her jaw and walks towards the voices, head peeking around an aisle of scrolls to greet them.\n\n\"I pray I am not interrupting. I was hoping to meet with the curator?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita looked up in surprise at the sound of another person entering the library's door. Two visitors in one day, maybe the library was more of a happening place than initial impressions had led her to believe. It was a pleasant thought. \n\nShe bowed politely to the newcomer, a shy-looking young woman who had poked her head around the nearest sack of shelves.\n\"Hello! I am Asako Kita, curator, at least for the past week. Forgive the mess, what can I help you with?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Well, here is an opportunity to boast of my uncle, he is a genuine Scholar who found the time to raise me alongside my own parents before they died and the one who sent me off to my studies after I was picked, I would not know what to do if I had lost him too\"\n\nThe piles of scattered books and scrolls, great at first now dwindled down to a manageable amount, how much time has passed really? \nIt was a nice place here, and getting to know other people than in that hotpot of a dojo wasn't as bad as he thought, turns out a peace embassy greatly contrasts a place where one could put a lot of competitive and fiery individuals in one place.\nThe door slides again and with nerves calmed he gave his third greetings of the day.\n\n\"And I am Isawa Naoki, recently arrived this day, helping clearing this mess.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "\"Ah, 'tis no bother. A messy library is a well-loved one.\" Or so she was once told. But who was it that had said so? She cannot recall.\n\nShe glances at the mess and gently kneels down to examine the scriptures, wondering if at this point it was even necessary to help. \n\n\"It is an honor to meet you both, Asako-sama, Isawa-sama.\" Her hand traces over a rolled scroll, habitually trying to ascertain its age from the wear and coloration of the paper. \"My current duty may require the study of certain esoteric knowledge, and while I do not need it at this moment, I was perhaps hoping to meet and familiarize myself with the archive, to make things easier going forward.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Please -san is just fine, as for those texts I believe I had made a list of those around here and the location should be known on top of one of these unsorted piles.\"\n\nRaising his hands and stretching them to crack his back he gestures to a pile here and another pile there. \nHe rises up and gazes upon the shelves, these books have been aired plenty which makes them good to be shelved.\n\n\"Alright Kita-san, which books should be shelved where and please do tell me about your duties in Ryoko Owari Shiba-san.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita grimaced slightly at the thought of a well-loved library remaining a mess. Temporarily maybe, sometimes a mess was necessary to move forward with new beginnings. But she would not fault someone for it, especially one claiming to have an interest in obscure literature.\n\n\"I will shortly have a full list of the titles in the collection here, with the assistance I've received today, and at least an idea where to find them. So should you decide you need something specific, please let me know and I'll try to have it pulled out for you. Or you're always welcome to come browse, ...?\"\n\nKita raised an eyebrow at the new visitor, hoping that she would fill in the blank with a name. Under the wrappings of her scarf, it was difficult to make out much in the way of identification.\n\nAs Naoki rose Kita turned her attention back to him for the moment, \n\"You mentioned your uncle raised you, he must he a very honorable man to take in a child as his own and provide for your studies. Although I am sorry to hear of your parent's deaths. I also lost my mother when I was young. My father raised me alongside his work in the Kajiro library, although I will say it was much larger place than this. Here, this bunch will go just over here.\"\n\nShe initially waved an arm to encompass the smaller scope of the embassy library, then more to the point of returning the sorted stacks to their home, turned to motion a certain shelf. As they continued to work Kita would inquire of the Shiba.\n\n\"Since you are not familiar with the library, are you a newcomer here as well? Or just taking on new duties that would entail the research?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "sevenswordsins",
"message": "She had forgotten to name herself. Forgotten or instinctively witheld? She shouldn't dwell on it. She adjusts her demeanor to be a little more relaxed and returns her thoughts to business. \"Ah, forgive me. My name is Shiba Shion, a bushi from Nejiro province.\"\n\nShe pauses a moment to examine the fruits of their labour, to buy time for herself as he searches for delicate words, and to glean the rhyme and reason of their categorizing. Organization was not a strong suit of hers by any means, and watching those with a sense for it was, to her, an opportunity to better herself.\n\nThe talk of parents and upbringing struck a familiar chord in her, but she did not comment. Hardly her place in this moment. Though it did leave her to wonder just how many sons and daughters of the phoenix were raised by their aunts and uncles rather than those who birthed them.\n\n\"I am investigating an internal matter for the clan; the clues pointed me here. The Ambassador has most graciously allowed me to operate within the city until my duties are complete.\" Her gaze trails off with her thoughts, wondering how much of not she might find here. Surely what she is looking for would not be tucked away in some far off library for anyone to find. \n\n\"I have put myself in service to the embassy in the meantime. So if you are in need of anything, I would be happy to lend my aid.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Ah the Kanjiro library? So you are from Kyuukai then, I haven't been there ever since I accompanied my uncle during his duties as Emerald Magistrate, although I assure you there is nothing to apologise for unless you were those who killed them of course.\" \n\nNaoki looks over to the shelves Kita has waved over to and starts shelving those scrolls and books as the list states. Thankfully someone is now here to continue the conversation and since he was shared some else's story, sharing another story before he listens shouldn't hurt.\n\n\"So at the time, my mother's brother thinks its too much of a risk to leave his nephew all alone surrounded by servants with his sister's killers on the loose than it is to take him along.\" \n\"And one day his duties bring him to Michita Yasumi and I will remember that moment for the rest of my life, for one of the junior apprentices under the Elemental Master of Fire was there to be impressed by me struggling to control the fire kami so I was back to Ki-rin under his tutelage.\"\n\nGoing back to the other half of the pile he is to shelve he addresses the arrived scarved bushi.\n\n\"So Shiba-san please no need to kneel on ceremony, as you yourself a resident of Nejiro I shall tell you this.\" \n\"In truth I have been dying to view the Ruins of Korihaka and while I would like to ask you about them, I would rather see it for myself.\"\n\"So instead I shall ask to hear news of the internal matters that bring you here, what you are allowed to say of course.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Picking up several items and moving to the appropriate location, Kita started to neatly put them away. The sense of nearing the completion of the task was quite satisfying. And knowing that whoever needed to find things here would be able to reference exact locations would be very helpful as well. Of course, there would likely be those few who came looking for something she had decided to move, but she would deal with those in time.\n\n\"Yes, I am from the Kyuukai province. Killed your... Oh, oh no.\" Naoki's reply caught her off guard. Her eyebrows knit together in response, \"No, I've never killed anyone, unless you count a cricket and a few plants. It is good to hear though that your visit to Michita Yasumi led you to a teacher to help you such.\"\n\nShe didn't feel it was appropriate to bring up the other thought his statement led her to, a remembrance of the Karo's mention of a reckless Isawa causing havok in the city. Surely this Isawa would not have been sent here if there were any question about his competences. \n\nTurning instead to the new visitor, Kita addressed the Shiba.\n\"It is kind of you to offer you aid as well. I will let you know if there comes a time when I am in need of it. Unless of course you feel like carrying books.\" Kita chuckled, not expecting Shion to accept. It sounded as if she had plenty to handle, although she was curious as well about what the Shiba's assignment entailed.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Naoki burst out in low chuckles, its been years since a pair of someone's fell for his teasing, though well she certainly knows that is a threat not directed at her right?\nHas being among bushi and dealing with low lives for so long changed his sense of humour over the years? \n\n\"I kid... Just a simple jest since its rather plain to see you are a paragon of Phoenix pacifism Kita-san.\" \n\"Yet to come so far in life as I am now, making light of my parents deaths envying their place among our honoured ancestors and worrying that have not done enough to earn a spot next to them means I have accepted their fates is it?\"\n\nHe remembers reputations and stereotypes don't just come out of nowhere, certainly out of some Scorpions mouth he would wager, and have some basis in truth.\nMany of kin abhor violence that is a fact he has understood and is proud of.\nFools tend to misunderstand that choosing to not pick up a sword at times is not an act of cowardice, but of courage.\nHe comes back to the piles and starts picking up another stack to place in its place.\n\n\"Nothing I can do now except honour their memories and keep on with my life until my time is up huh.\"\n||"
}
] | 277 | 6,564 |
165.684211 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "As the duel had been concluding, Sanumo had taken the opportunity to rise from his seat and wordlessly slip away deeper into the embassy.\n\n*Whether in minutes, hours, or days, it is my responsibility to help him to sort his thoughts out once he is ready.*\n\nAnd so that was what he did. He'd bore witness to the result and then proceeded to give Iemon as much space as possible to have his wound tended to, engage in any isolation or introspection he might need, and visit the topic of the future as he was able.\n\nSanumo stood outside of the ambassador's office as he did his best to prepare for what would surely be another rough conversation. It was entirely possible that he would be told to leave - to save it for another time. But the ambassador had never struck him as the sort to put off important matters.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon had departed the dueling grounds after thanking the Crab ambassador sincerely again for his service. He had changed, given his bloody kimono to Fuyuko, and had moved to go to his office. He wordlessly nodded to Sanumo, opening the door to allow them both to go in, shutting it behind them once they had entered. He moved to his side of the desk, sitting down heavily. \n\n\"So. It goes without saying that could have gone better.\" He says, a thin line of grim humor crossing his lips.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Seated similarly in one of the guest chairs on the other side of the desk, he initially only had one word to say.\n\n« Quite. »\n\nNormally more on the verbose side, he was painfully aware of how serious the situation was and he wasn't exactly in the mood to talk circles around it. More than anything, Sanumo looked tired and... Possibly bitter? Hard to place it for certain.\n\nHe considered asking about the wound before thinking better of it. Were Iemon to deem it problematic, he'd say as much. And so instead he inquired after what he hoped was on both of their minds.\n\n« Where do we go from here? »\n\nHe had some ideas, but it felt important to sound out how the ambassador felt before getting into them.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon gave a mirthless chuckle. \"Preferably not Otosan Uchi, I would hate to repeat this spectacle in front of the eyes of the Emperor.\"\n\nHe sighs, growing serious. \"Let us analyze the facts. Despite the offense they laid claim to, the Unicorn have given me the courtesy of shielding both the shame of my personal loss as well as the insult of dueling a ronin. In addition, Fuyuko's offering of service is likely a deniable way for them to give some small courtesy, which perhaps speaks of some reluctance at the course of events as they played out. \n\n\"Hida-sama's willingness to adjudicate, as well as his quick action to call the duel reflect well of the Crab as a whole, and at least speak to some measure of respect he holds at least for both parties.\n\n\"As to the grander state of things in the city? That will likely depend on the rumors and how unfavorable they are towards us going forward.\" \n\nIemon finishes his assessment dispassionately, nodding to Sanumo. \"I am interested to hear your thoughts as well.\" *Anything to begin distracting me from the present outcome.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He hesitated, if only briefly.\n\n*He did ask, after all.*\n\n« I think the Unicorn made their stance clear the moment they put you up against a ronin. They could have chosen a new champion and redrafted the paperwork when they realized you would be our representative. Instead, they kept their choice - either because it did not matter or because they chose their pride as an alternative to appearing indecisive or weak. »\n\nHe leans forward in his seat, growing visibly incensed as he continues, « I appreciate Hida-san's arbitration, but I do not see purpose in how he performed his task. I believe the Crab was only fulfilling his duty in whatever light he believed it to be. »\n\n« I think that we are being made fools of, Iemon. » he let his closed fist fall onto the desk - not heavily, but enough to emphasize his point. « We have grand aims, yes. But nobody will share in them with us if they think poorly of us. Before word of this spreads - and you can always trust tongues to waggle - we simply appear brash, possessed of poor judgement even. »\n\n« After it spreads? They'll think us inept. Who will vouch for a Phoenix bushi at their side when our best is known to have lost to a ronin? »\n\nHe stops, taking a handful of slow breaths to help center himself. In a more measured tone, he says, « We have lost much today. I would argue that all we have left is something to prove. »\n\n« So what do you want us to prove? »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon gave a slow nod. \"I'll take the indirect compliment, though I would not by a long stretch consider myself our *Best,* But your point stands. Optimism will not serve us in this situation.\"\n\nHe considers the question. \"For myself, I will have to focus into a training regimen. Should others see this loss as a sign of weakness, I will have to be ready to *Firmly* Disabuse them of their mistaken notion. But for policy as a whole...\" \n\nHe sighs, rubbing his chin. \"The Unicorn have made it clear that rebuilding between our Clans will likely be futile, yes. The Crab will remain neutral, I do not doubt. Reaching out to the other Clans to continue sounding them out may simply be our best option, now that we are back to square one. We must learn the layout of the board once again before we commit to any overt action towards our primary goal.\n\n\"What do we prove, then? We see this course of events through. I will take a role in helping with the civil unrest we are seeing creep into the city directly, to show our sincerity going forward that we remain committed to the good of the Empire as a whole.\" \n\nIemon looks up again at Sanumo, his eyes having wandered down during his remarks. \"We cannot suffer those who will cause such damage to the cause of peace to tarnish us further. Vigilance will have to be applied to any new Phoenix that enter the city, we can no longer afford to assume capabilities of newcomers.\" \n\nHe gives a gentle scratch to the back of his arm, careful not to disturb the poultice and bandages. \"I am... Conflicted, Sanumo. I thought first blood would be the ideal option. Had I chosen to the death? I would have won.\" It was not a prideful statement, but factual. That final pass would have been a death sentence. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "There could be no place for regret in Iemon's mind, lest he risk falling into a spiral.\n\n« You made the right decision. There was no way to know your opponent and it would have been a waste to condemn their champion to death over something that Kazuko also thought was suitable for first blood. »\n\n« There is no scenario in which your decision was the wrong one. An ill fate laid down every path; we simply walked this one. »\n\nHe let the words hang in the air just long enough for Iemon to hopefully take them to heart.\n\n« How do you propose we screen those who become newly stationed here? Surely you don't expect to meet with them all personally. » Sure, Sanumo had been given such an affordance, but he was also the ambassador's right hand. \n\n« Some delegation seems in order, don't you think? »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nodded, and visibly a small weight seemed to come off of his back after Sanumo's words of reassurance. \n\n\"Of course, especially since focusing on city affairs will require more of my attention for the foreseeable future, delegating such a thing will be necessary. At barest minimum ensuring a timely processing in of travel papers, and cross-checking what resources we can for the points of origin of newcomers who have been allowed passage here will be vital. Making it known that any such troublemakers will be dealt with harshly will be another step we can take to hopefully convince less than proper conduct from future clanmates who decide to come and visit.\"\n\nHe paused, considering. \"Am I overreacting in light of the most recent events?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Perhaps it was his anger at this Isawa-contrived situation. Perhaps it was him getting swept up in the moment.\n\nPerhaps it was the truth.\n\n« Even the mightiest shiro will topple easily if its foundation is faulty. Holding our clanmates to the same standards we hold ourselves is the only way to ensure we all stand together. »\n\n*And avoid the sting of such failures...*\n\n« These things you wish are more than possible. I'll make sure the entire embassy is aware and contact you if we need any additional resources. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Very well then.\" Iemon nodded, gratefully. Truly, Sanumo showed himself to be a wise source of council, a rock in an otherwise tumultuous sea of trouble.\n\n\"I doubt that the outcome of these events will be well received in our homelands. At this point, we will need some sort of positive news to report. Our next move will have to be a successful one. Perhaps more actively pursuing the friendship of the Lion? Or attempting to find an inroad of some sort with one of the other Clans?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« If fast results are what we seek, then I believe our highest likelihood of success lies with the Lion. Our efforts this far have met with much success. The circumstances for such developments don't often arise elsewhere in the empire. »\n\nHe stared into the middle distance, contemplating the paths before them. Then gave a firm nod and visibly returned to the present.\n\n« Yes. I believe we should strike while the iron is still hot, so to speak. »\n\n*Before some other disaster pries this opportunity away from us.*"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Very true, the uniqueness of the situation here is something that must be acted on.\" Iemon agreed, actively considering options to move forward helping to pull him slowly out of the downward focus he had felt himself getting trapped in.\n\n\"This then begs the question of how much we disclose to the Lion of our overall change of situation, as well as whether we still attempt to move forward on the initial three-party council in light of our... Altered circumstances.\" It still was difficult to think of the Unicorn as a force of opposition for him, and avoiding giving voice to that was an unfortunately obvious tell. \"I would assume, if we do move forward with it, we will consider altering the proposed members of the council?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« All of it. » he spoke without hesitation, then caught himself. « We tell them all of it. An alliance with the Lion brokered on half-truths and omitted information is doomed to failure. They will either take us as we are or not at all. »\n\nHe seemed to be in his element; the charting of a path through political avenues being second nature to him.\n\n« I think... If the members change, then we need to make sure that whatever we assemble is worthy to dissuade those who are omitted. The Unicorn's claim will not simply disappear if they are absent from the table. »\n\n« ...That said, we will do what we must. If peace requires new bedfellows, I feel we are obligated to pursue such. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Of course, you are correct. Better to let it stand fully on its own merits, or fall by them, rather than build on a shoddy foundation and risk greater loss when it fails.\" Iemon agreed, inwardly annoyed by what should have been an elementary question for this. *This loss must have affected me more deeply than it first appeared.* \n\n\"Indeed the Unicorn's claims will likely not go anywhere. Our... Embarrassment will likely further embolden them, if what Kazuko stated was an indication. Removing the Scorpion from governance entirely as she proposed is not a horrible thing, if that removal can include the Underworld and illicit activities, I see that as a net gain. However, the likelihood of such success is... Unlikely, to say the least. If it is not successful, all it does is instigate both the Scorpion and their resources.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« There are many things that would be ideal, but I'm afraid that they're out of reach at present. I do not doubt that we could dent the underworld in the short term, but I know precious little about the ramifications that could come along with such a success. »\n\nHe shakes his head, some loose strands of hair swishing as he does so. « Perhaps we could work with the Scorpion to do so, given their previous rulership and recent outspokenness regarding law and order. With as much as they have lost, I find myself doubtful that they would spurn our assistance. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"The may not spurn our assistance, true. But we must ensure that their cause is true. It would be unfortunate for us to learn first hand how *Well* The Scorpion can swim.\" Iemon said, a cautious tone to his voice as he mentioned the famous story of the Underhand of the Emperor.\n\n\"I do not know what our path will bring us, Sanumo, but standing still will lead to us being ineffective, and looking behind us will only lead to regret.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Correct on all fronts. It is always better to choose than not to choose, lest our course be steered by all but ourselves. » He didn't directly address Iemon's concerns over the Scorpion's duplicity, but they both were smart enough not to take it off of the table.\n\n« It seems as though we have a plan or, at the very least, an outline by which to guide ourselves. With your leave, ambassador, I would depart to consider these directives and how we may achieve them. » He bowed and awaited dismissal.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"I think we have discussed all we can for now, yes.\" Iemon said, then paused. \n\n\"Sanumo, you are an excellent advisor, and I once again find myself exceedingly grateful for your counsel and willingness to engage more actively in the political arena. You serve our Clan well, and truly, were it not for you we would be in much dire straits than we presently find ourselves in. So... Thank you.\" He returned the bow, gauging it to match Sanumo's as a further sign of respect. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The ambassador's efforts at flattery certainly did not go unnoticed. In spite of his worn visage, he visibly brightened under the praise.\n\n« Thank you, Iemon. Truly. But do not let yourself ignore the fact that I have only been afforded such opportunity by your astute leadership. I was not always so able to assist our kin. I aim to return this gift in kind. »\n\nAnd with that, the young courtier slipped out of the office; the door softly shutting in his wake.\n\n||"
}
] | 145 | 3,148 |
127.68 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita was becoming much more comfortable about the Phoenix embassy. It was starting to feel like home and she didn't have to think much about where she was going within the grounds. Today though, she was looking for someplace in particular she had yet to visit. She rubbed her fingers together absently as she made her way through the halls, keeping an alert eye out around her.\nShe made her way up to the east hall of the second story, hunting for the room that she had heard had been converted into the art studio. She was hoping to find the artist who had stopped by the library when he first arrived. \nFinding the room she believed it was, hoping it was the right place, she knocked and called a greeting, hoping as well that Naoki would be present.\n\n\"Hello! Isawa Naoki-San?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Turmeric dye. Vibrant Gold. A ratio of 3 to 7 of crushed brown pottery and gold. Held in suspension of soybean or rice bran oil in order to stain the whitest sailing canvas he can acquire.\nImpious and semi-heretical it may be, but he may have just outdone Lady Amaterasu on that sunny afternoon in that marketplace, not for outmatching her natural splendour, but because he had brought a scenery not natural and otherworldly to form in this canvas to be admired by all.\nHis heart grew gladder to see his musings have proved to be correct, and now he has made a new painting, a material where you can colour it, roll it up for storage and it wont be creased or ruined, a medium of paint that can provide brighter and powerful colours for use in their intent, and most importantly it is a form of painting that could last decades, perhaps centuries.\n\nA voice draws him out of his merry stupor. He thinks, how goes the state of his studio, is he presentable enough?\n\nThe stuff the local lacquers use to thin down their lacquer has some funny smells, so he always kept the window open to carry it away, his sketches were in a corner somewhere, so were the rest of his equipment and experiments scattered haphazardly he figures.\nYet that unfinished painting, with its gold dust speckled sun rays and lady Ameterasu herself may just excuse the state of it, after all its an art studio after all.\n\n\"Hai, hai... I am here, please come in.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "As she entered the room, she took note of the state of things. It appeared he had made himself at home and had wasted no time in putting his gifts to work. Turning her attention to him now, she bowed politely,\n\n\"Isawa-san, it is a pleasure to see you again. It looks like you are settling in. I hope things have been going well for you since we met?\"\n\nShe gave him a gentle smile, hoping to ease any discomfort she may be causing by her arrival. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Eyes that have clearly been overused in these past days turned to greet his guest, the Asako who has taken up the duties of librarian for his clans embassy to see, after some blinking has comes into view. \nBowing in return he replies. \n\n\"Ah, yes Kita-san, it seems its been going better than expected\". \n\"Please turn your eyes to these paints I have made and the start of this painting and know that I have succeeded.\"\n\nClosing to rest his eyes he flashes a heartfelt smile, his work had just begun he feels.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"It is good to hear things have been going well. I had been meaning to come find where you had been set up to work. It seems to be serving you well.\"\n\nKita moved closer to admire the work of the painting. She was no artist herself in three manner he was, but could appreciate the colors and beginnings of the large piece. \n\n\"Oh, you have started on the painting. I you had said it would be bigger, but it will be impressive when finished! The golden colors reflect the sun just so, it makes it look as if it is capturing the light. Did you find the paint here or something you brought with you?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "He directs his newly refreshed gaze once more to his pride and joy.\n\n\"Since I have not yet been assigned a yojimbo Karo-sama instead bade me instruct the servants on what I needed.\"\n\"Yes indeed the pigments used are a mix of local and whatever the Unicorn and Mantis have brought to their markets.\"\n\"However I have made it so that it is mixed in oil, not water as one normally does, nor am I painting over paper but the canvas the Mantis use for their sails.\"\n\nTilting the painting a little bit over to the sun so they may see its full hue, he continues rambling on, explaining his newest piece.\n\n\"Thus sake or water spilled on it wont ruin the already more brilliant colours and the gold dust mixed in with the yellow dye does capture the suns brilliance right?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita's expression turned curious at the explanation, looking now to the animated Naoki, enjoying his delight in the subject.\n\n\"How intriguing, so it is new things you are experimenting with, both the paint and the canvas? I don't have any knowledge of such, but I hope it works well. It certainly appears to be turning out very well so far. The hue is beautiful.\"\n\nHis last statement gave her some confusion, and she tried to clarify,\n\n\"Do you expect someone to be throwing drinks at your work? Or just a precautionary step?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Hehehe, least of my concerns as it is a precautionary step, a hobby of restoring old works makes you wish that better steps were taken in order to preserve them.\"\n\nLooking over the mess that is his studio he finally finds the bottle of milk he has also requested from the marketplaces and begins warming it up. \nTaking a sip to take him back out of his minds room he turns his full attention to his visitor.\n\n\"Now what can I help you with today Kita-san, I wager its not for this as I have yet to send word about its completion to everyone.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"A wise precaution. I do wish such thought was given to the preservation of books and scrolls more often. It would make the duties of curation much easier.\"\n\nShe observed as he had rummaged through the disorder that had already accumulated in his space and inquired the purpose of her visit, thinking to herself, *I've heard the creative process often involves chaos in the course of creation. I suppose that's accurate here...*\n\n\"Ah yes. I'll admit my visit was not purely social in nature, although I was curious to see how you were settled in and the progress of your work.\"\n\nShe turned an admiring eye briefly back to the painting before she continued.\n\n\"I had told you when we met about my assignment of administering the Steel Talons project. It will need to have a sort of identification for those that are named as Talons, which would serve as a prize to award as well. Some sort of medallion I think? The production will have to be commissioned, but I was hoping you could help me with the design? My skills lie in the area of words, and I will be quick to admit I don't have much in the way of that sort of artistic sense. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Hmm, yes just a moment.\"\n\nArising from his mat, Naoki steps around the mess around him to reach one mess in one corner of the room, to which he fetches handfuls of rice papers and takes out one of the pieces of charcoal of which he has sharpened to a fine point. \nTools acquired he steps back about and settles back unto the floor, turning back to Kita he posits his question in order to bring to life her vision.\n\n\"Now tell me about this medallion of yours, what shape does it take, of what material is it made of, is it too heavy handed that we just plainly put genuine birds talons on a string and call it a day?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita tensed for a moment, her eyes growing wider, not expecting him to turn his immediate attention to the request. \n\nOh, I... I didn't mean to take your time right now, it is not an urgent thing.\"\n\nShe glanced down at him on the floor, looking up at her expectantly, charcoal\nPoised. Well, it certainly wouldn't hurt to take the time now... She moved to a nearby clear space and lowered herself gracefully to sit near him. Placing a thoughtful finger over her lips she started to voice her thoughts to answer his questions.\n\n\"Very well, I hadn't given it very much thought yet, just that it would need to exist. Let's see, it would need to be sufficient size to be identified without being unwieldy. I would think a metal, whatever sort would be workable, for the material. You think it is too on the nose to be a the image a talon itself? Perhaps stylized somehow?\"\n\nShe thought a moment more, then her expression became more animated as she exclaimed,\n\n\"Oh! You mean having the shape like an actual bird's foot?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Well... Honestly I was thinking we have some skilled hunters hunt down some fierce birds of prey or purchase fighting roosters to acquire their feet and use that instead, straightforward but... Unless the birds in question were troubling others it would be quite cruel wouldnt it be?\"\n\nNaoki posits the thought, having a smith exactly forge metal in shape of a talon would be a such a pain, not to mention costly.\n\n\"Ah well, some of the peasants winning roosters were getting quite old and have lost already, that could make a fine material, something something representing the romanticism of the duel and duellists partaking in them, the mono-no-aware symbolism it gives the medallion.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita's eyebrows knit together, \n\n\"How would you propose to keep it from rotting? Mono-no-aware and romanticism are all well and good, but I'm not sure we can't ask these duelists to wear something quite like that as identification. Maybe something a little more ... Durable?\"\n\n ||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Pondering, Naoki replies,\n\n\"I have heard of a way by the Unicorn to keep dead flesh from rotting, like those riding saddles of theirs... Speaking of you haven't told me on how does the tournament operate?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"The Unicorn hmm? Well, maybe...\"\n\nContent to give the brainstorming a rest for a time, Kita absently rubbed her thumb against the palm of her opposite hand. \n\n\"The idea is that, since the Crane just had their tournament, that the initial Steel Talons would be the tournament finalists. Then after a time we would hold the first actual Steel Talon dueling tournament, and confer the award to the next set of winners each time. Have it be more of a rotating title that encourages the challengers. Thats what I have in mind at least.\"\n \n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Hmm hmm, a singular medallion then? So...\"\n\nLike flashes of lighting his hands scrawls out a design of necklace holding a singular preserved roosters feet and bits of steel shaped in the form of talons adorning it.\n\n\"Like this then? The bird feet will signify the winner of the last tournament which depending on the results will change hands, and these steel talons will be kept to signify to every time they have won.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"A two piece award...\"\n\nShe leaned closer to look over the design as he scratched it onto the paper.\n\n\"Yes, that would be just the thing, have two parts; one they can keep as evidence that they held the title, and a traveling piece that stays with the current champions. An outstanding idea Naoki-san.\"\n\nShe straightened and looked back at the artist,\n\"As far as materials, we will have to see what craftsmen are available and what they can work with. But this will be a good place to start.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"I am glad to be of assistance Kita-san, do you suppose the Unicorn will be honoured to assist us with such a material?\"\n\nSetting down his piece of charcoal and leaning back down to lie he starts thinking about the exciting tournament to come, hoping that he would finally be free to attend it.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "At this question, Kita's expression became somewhat guarded again. \n\n\"I have to meet with the Unicorn, either their Ambassador or someone she assigns about some other details about the initial project launch. I think we will see how that meeting goes and then see about what additional collaboration could be requested.\"\n\nShe motioned to the sheet of paper where he had sketched the design.\n\n\"May I? Or can I have you make a second paper to take with me?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Oh please take it, I already memorised it.\"\n\nNaoki rises back up to take another swig of his milk and hands over the paper.\nSeeing her expression change at the mention of the diplomatic task ahead of her he asks,\n\n\"Its that bad huh? How much to they intend to squeeze out of us just for a bushi and a thief?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "She took the paper in had with a nod of thanks. Her eyes widened slightly at his following remark, but she shrugged, \n\n\"I'm not sure. Things could certainly be better, and that's the goal.\nA bushi and a thief may not be incorrect, but I understand it has put the entire embassy here in poor standing with them and strained already tense relations. Besides Asako Sanumo-sama says their ambassador is a 'strong personality'. I'm sure it will be fine, I will just make sure to tread lightly.\"\n\nShe seemed trying to convince herself as much as him with assurance that a common cause could be established.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Hearing her assurances and finishing off his milk he adds,\n\n\"From what I heard and unless further clarity can be shed upon that unfortunate incident, I believe we have a duty to uphold and those who are under our protection have laws they must adhere to.\"\n\nThe memories of his youth getting lost in one of the marketplaces and the various sights he had witness wandering it, remembering that strange feeling as he continues.\n\n\"Besides that I do hope our relations ease up so that I may be free to go to and fro whenever I wish, and the first thing I would do is to thank whomever raised these fine cows that have yielded such creamy produce.\"\n\n|| we finishing up here?"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Just now noticing his beverage of choice, Kita's nose wrinkled, \"Oh, yes. I suppose thanking them would be polite.\"\n\n\"The situation here is unfortunate, and as you say - duty should be upheld. But yes, for your sake I hope you gain some freedom of movement. I didn't realize you had been restricted here, although you seem to have made good use of your time. Seeing more of the city is... Enlightening.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Hm, yes one day... I would like to get lost in this city again, better than being stuffed in here.\"\n\nRising to his feet he moves past the mess in the room to pick up his paint and easel, and begins his task of cataloguing the results of his colour mixing in order to hopefully find a hue of colour that matches the flower in Sanumo's office.\n\n\"Anything else I can help you with Kita-san?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "I think that will be all for today. Thank you for your assistance. Please, if I can ever return the favor, just ask.\"\n\nKita followed his lead, collecting herself from the floor and glanced again at the sketch that resulted from their discussion as she moved toward the door to take her leave.\n\"This will be most helpful. May the fortunes guide you, Naoki-san.\n\n||"
}
] | 115 | 3,192 |
113.318182 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "Taisei sent a message to Adohiro to meet him at the Phoenix Embassy. As he waited in the receiving room he played all the recent events over in his mind. His foolish action, the terrible anger of Shiba-sama, the terrible trouble that has come upon his clan, and the breaking of a shaky peace with the Unicorn Clan. One thoughtless decision has set off a domino effect that has brought shame on the Phoenix Clan and has ruined his life. As he contemplated this his mind felt weary. All has completely taxed him. His only solace was that he had a friend that could stand by his side. He only hoped that Adohiro-kun wasn't too worried. After awhile one of the embassy's servants came in and informed him that he had arrived. \"Good. Show him in.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "Adohiro was told to come to the Phoenix clan embassy which he wondered why. He rarely ever been to the embassy but he had a few times. It looked the same as ever still and there wasn't anything that seemed to change. He had no idea if he had to talk with the actual ambassador about the entire situation. He greeted the servants when he arrived and he soon made his way to where Taisei was. \"Taisei-San!\" He called him as he approached the older male. \"Is everything okay? I hope you don't get in too much trouble.\" He said giving a frown. He wondered if the Phoenix clan really let him have it for doing complete destruction and possibly ruining clan relationships."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"Hello Adohiro-kun,\" Taisei smiled. \"I'm sorry if I worried you. I fine. I promise. At my request Shiba-sama allowed me to call you here to talk. I thought you should know what's going on. I also wanted to see you again since we probably won't be together for awhile. According to the ambassador I have to stay holded up here at the embassy for kami knows how long due to the threat to my life as you well know. I have much to tell you. So, do you want to hear the good news or the bad news first?\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "Adohiro sits down as he would hear his apology. He shakes he's head. \"No need to apologize.\" He said. He heard it might be a bit but he did want to hang out with hi. \"There's been death threats?\" He asked as he would hear him ask if he wanted good news first or the bad news. \"Let's do bad news first and then good news.\" He said. He wondered how Phoenix clan was going to deal with this situation."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"Well you asked for it,\" Taisei replied hanging his head in shame. \"The bad news is quite devastating for me. Ambassador Shiba was extremely angry with me. I've bought great dishonor on myself and my clan. I did not expect my foolishness to cause this much trouble. I did not think that this would impact my entire clan. Also, I don't know if you knew this or not, but Utaku Masanori-san is the son of the Unicorn clan daimyo. Because he was caught in the crossfire and nearly injured by my spell, peace with the Unicorn is most likely impossible now. I probably won't be able to work at the embassy anymore. What's more is that whether Shiba-sama approves or not I will be relinquishing my name. I am no longer worthy of carrying the name of Isawa. I will be going ronin.\" As he let that sink in a tear rolled down his cheek. He wiped it away quickly."
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives. Amid bit he heard the news. The ambassador was definitely rightfully angry but he didn't like him not having his name at all. He heard Masanori was some Daimo of a family and he gives a nod. It seemed rather unfair over some mistake. \"Is there a way I can persuade your clan? You'll still always be a Isawa to me.\" He said. \"Can I talk with your ambassador.\" He said. He was willing to stand up Taisei if nobody else was. \"They're acting like you killed a bunch of people.\" He said. The girl survived, Masanori survived though with injuries but nothing super life threatening. \"I'm okay with defending your name.\""
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"There is nothing you can do or say Adohiro-kun,\" Taisei replied sadly. \"I have wronged a high ranking samurai and therefore I have wronged his clan as well. I have brought shame and distrust to my own clan. It is true that Masanori and the girl will be alright. That's the good news. That at least has afforded me some mercy and is the reason I will not have to endure seppuku. I will have to issue a public apology, but regardless my life is forever changed. It is my choice to go ronin. It is only right. It's either that or cower away in a monastery somewhere. That I won't do. I still have some pride. I will be free no matter how dangerous a life it is.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "\"That's not fair.\" He gripped his fist. He wanted to protect his friend, speak out against the issue, and he'll at whoever did it. He would grimace as he crossed his arms. \"They're treating you like some criminal.\" He spoke out as he crossed his arms. \"It's totally not fair.\" He said crossing his arms. \"Don't worry, I'm still on your side. You're welcome to come visit me. You can even hang out at my place.\" He told Taisei."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"I basically am a criminal,\" Taisei replied. \"My magic caused havoc, which caused an uproar among the peasants and the Unicorn Clan. I assure you, I deserve this. From now on I will definitely be guarding my actions so this doesn't happen again. At any rate, I'm glad you're on my side Adohiro-kun. I'll definitely need your support when all of this comes to fruition. Being a ronin will be a hard life. It's nice to know I have someone I can count on.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "\"You can live at my place!\" He said with a small smile. \"I know ronins don't have a lot of money or housing so you can stay with me.\" He smiled. \"I got extra futons and an extra space room.\" He offered. \"I don't think you're a criminal.\" He said giving a small smile with a grin."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "Taisei couldn't help but chuckle at Adohiro's enthusiasm. This was just what he needed to cheer himself up. \"I'd like that,\" Taisei smiled back. \"Being roommates would be awesome. That's a very kind of you to offer.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives a determined nod as he was glad Taisei seemed happy. He gives a grin. \"I like that.\" He said. \"It's be an eternity sleepover.\" He gives a small smile."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"Now that the gorey details are taken care of,\" Taisei said. \"There some else important to tell you. I do have to see the ambassador. Part of the reason Shiba-sama allowed me bring you here is so he can ask you about your point of view on the incident at the Leather workers Quarter. Maybe he'll let you stay for awhile. I need you with me.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He heard he needed to see the ambassador and it seemed he needed to tell his side of the story. He gives a small nod wondering what he was suppose to stay. \"Really? I'd love to stay.\" He said with a small smile. \"Should we meet the ambassador-San now?\" He asked wondering if they should meet up now. \"I wonder w nah he's gonna ask exactly.\" He said."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"We probably should,\" Taisei replied. \"We might as well get that over with. It's likely to be a little unpleasant. Then we can ask him to let you stay awhile.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He nodded his head smiling. \"It's fine. Let's go I guess.\" He said with a a shrug. \"Now about you lead the way.\" He said with a small smile as he would look around quietly. He wondered what else to do."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"Alright come on,\" Taisei replied. He grabbed him by the hand and led him to the door of the ambassador's office. He raised a closed fist and cordially knocked on the door."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Enter.\" Iemon's voice passes clearly through the paper door. He remains seated, considering several different pieces of paperwork on his desk, a small bit of scrap off to the side where he has been taking small notes. He raises his eyes from his current reading, a look of greeting growing slightly less warm at the sight of the disgraced Isawa. He gestures for the two to take a seat across from him at his desk. \"This must be Daidoji Adohiro-san, I presume?\" It was a safe bet. He hadn't approved any other visitation for Taisei.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He took his hand and he followed him. He let him knock. He'd enter soon seeing the ambassador. He'd do a bow. \"Hello ambassador- San.\" He smiled as he would give a glance over at Isawa. He gives a nod. \"Yes I'm Adohiro.\" He said smiling as he sat down. \"I was at the scene when it happened.\" He said. He had no idea how to word it."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"I'm sorry to bother you Shiba-sama,\" Taisei replied with a bow. \"I hope you're not too busy. I told Daidoji-san what's been going on like I wanted. I thought it was time for him to talk to you. He has agreed to tell you what you need to know. Now I'll give you some privacy. I don't want to be intrusive.\" He got up, bowed to the both of them, and walked out closing the door behind him."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods to Taisei as he excused himself. Turning his attention to Adohiro, he looks at him appraisingly. \"Having heard what both Isawa-san and Utaku-sama have recounted about the incident, there are a number of shared details already firmly in place. If you would, recount what you saw for the sake of thoroughness at the very least.\" He wasn't entirely hopeful this would result in any information not already known, but if samurai from three different clans all agreed on what happened, it would leave little question to any outside questioners.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He saw him leave quickly. He gives a glance over at lemon. He wondered what he was going to be like. Was this going to be an interrogation. He gives a nod. \"I was sorta behind Masanori and then I saw a lightning strike. It caused a lot of destruction. I know Taisei didn't mean it. He didn't think over it. No one was killed. I did help the girl to the best of my abilities by holding her hand. I didn't see much since I wasn't with Taisei. I had ran ahead to chase after the girl and I tried to call her out.\" He said crossing his arms. He gives a nod sighing softly. \"It was like an instant where the scene was burning.\" He gives a soft sigh."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon blinked slowly. \"Oh. Well, I suppose if he didn't mean it, that makes it alright. Accidents like *Directly petitioning the Fortune of Fire and Lightning* Can just happen to anyone, hm?\" He tried to bite his tongue, but the words came out, an tone of acidic derision lacing his words. \n\n\"With due respect, Daidoji-*San,* Whether anyone died or not, I am well aware that these ill-thought actions nearly caused a riot. There are a great number of things worse than death, with dishonor as the worst. Isawa-san has expressed already how poor his decision was. What more can you tell me? Was there a risk of this girl getting away if he hadn't called down Osano-wo's wrath?\" \n\nHe fought the urge to rise and prowl the room and rant at the Crane before him. He took a breath, centered himself, and continues. \n\n\"This is not something that mere intent can brush aside. We can only judge this by results. So far, these results put on a display for all to see that the Phoenix cannot train their own Shugenja not to uphold the very virtues I have been professing as our primary interest in this city. He has made a fool of himself as well as of his Clan.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "\"I didn't say he should be excused .\"He pointed out. He heard him ask if the girl could have gotten away. \"I don't think so. She was way too weak and skinny. She would have been caught which is why Taisei acted recklessly. \"The destruction he caused was pretty bad though.\" He said. \"I wasn't with him when he planned to do the attack so I couldn't tell him to stop or to see what his intent was.\" He said. \"I know he didn't mean to cause this destruction but he definitely didn't act too smart with it.\" He said."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"You may not have said it, but there is no other reason in this case to bring up intent. You will, I hope, pardon my getting ahead of the subject at hand to the best of my ability.\"\n\nIemon gave a small nod. \"There is the problem. Whether he meant to cause it or not, his judgment was poor, and that reflects not only on him, but on our Clan, as we are the ones who had educated him and brought him to this point. We all share in the burden of his dishonor, and in the blame of assaulting Utaku Masanori-sama.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives a nod hearing he did something dumb that should be punished. \"Is it really true he's becoming a ronin?\" He asked wondering if it was true and all. He gives a nervous glance at him hoping it wasn't. \"Did Masanori-San say he wasn't going to press charges or anything like that?\" He asked wondering if he did. He leans back a bit, he wished Taisei was here now. It felt weird talking to a ambassador of a different clan."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon started slightly. \"Well, my suggestion to him was going to be that he renounce his name and either follow the Path of Waves or retire to a monastery. Either of those paths will be open to him.\n\n\"As for Utaku-*Sama,*' he continues, emphasizing the correct honorific, \"I do not think a need of formal charges is needed since both testimonies are essentially in line with each other on the important details. Frankly, Taisei is lucky he was not struck down by the Unicorn in the street then and there.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives a nod hearing he has to renounce his name. That seemed overly harsh to him but he couldn't do much. \"I think he planned to do the ronin part.\" He said. He hear the correct honorific as he gives a nod. \"Will there be some court trial?\" He asked. \"Maybe a few people to his defense?\" He said. He wondered if that would exactly happen and all."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "He looks at the Crane, skeptically. \"What sort of defense would you even consider for this, Daidoji-san? There is nothing to defend on his part, as it has been shown by all three accountings of this event that there is no real dispute as to what has happened.\" Iemon looks down at a piece of paper in particular on his desk as he says this. \"There will be... A private matter that settles some additional details, but that is an affair between the Phoenix and the Unicorn.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He shrugged. \"I just heard that's a good idea generally.\" He said with a small smile as he gives a glance. He heard about the affairs as he glanced down at the paper wondering what it was. \"Private matters? Will the crane clan be involved?\" He asked him wondering if they would."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon slowly places his elbows on the desk in front of him, interlocking his hands. He leans down, resting his chin on them, shuts his eyes for a moment, and takes a long, *Slow* Breath. *Merciful Fortunes, whatever I did in a past life to deserve this, know I am sincerely sorry.* Part of him wanted to just unleash in a verbal tirade against the Crane in front of him. The only thing that prevented that was that he appeared little more than a child. \n\n\"If you have heard that is a good idea, I would hope you would be able to bring that idea to bear in the context of this given situation. We do not have the luxury of speaking in generalities, we have a highly particular case in this circumstance.\" He opens his eyes, his expression dour. \"Perhaps it is your youthful ignorance talking, but for your edification, there are many that would consider offering counsel without substance such as this as being highly insulting. You do not mean to offer insult, correct?\" \n\nHis eyes flash, letting his anger appear in full display in their depths. \"I think listening is another skill, alongside manners, that you may wish to cultivate. In listing the Phoenix and Unicorn clans, you would have noticed a distinct absence of mention of the Crane Clan. I can assure you, that was not an oversight. It is a *Private* Matter, to be resolved between the Unicorn and the Phoenix.\" He tucks the paper firmly away from the young man, having followed his gaze.\n\n\"I think, unless you have any further *Suggestions* In how my Clan conducts its affairs, that it would be best if you see yourself out.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "Adohiro was a direct person so he was up the making ideas for any possible situation. He gives a glance over at him soon seeing he wasn't ok happy \"I apologize. I'm not insulting. I'm thinking of what only can benefit all clans if there is an open discussion.\" He said. \"And platform for any defense if needed. And a counsel. I'm sorry.\" He apologized. When he mentioned crane clan he shakes his head. \"It's not that, I'm just wondering if you would want crane clan to give an opinion if needed.\" He said. \"I apologize if I've offended you. I am only trying to help.\" He said. \"I have offered Taisei to stay with me at my residence.\" He spoke to him."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Again, *What* Defense? *What* Counsel? When the accuser and the accused both agree to what happened in an incident, it does not merit a trial. The actual outcome is complicated enough without making a legal spectacle that would only determine *The exact same conclusion we already have.*\" Iemon's hands tighten, his knuckles whitening. \n\n\"If I wanted the Crane Clan's opinion, I would have consulted with your ambassador directly.\"\n\nThe last bit surprises him once again, and he raises his eyebrows. \"Really? Well... Delightful. Once he has publicly apologized and renounced his name, he can go where he likes. If that happens to include your residence, all the better. Until then, he will remain under house arrest here.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "\"I apologize. I'm not trying to offend you.\" He said. He heard he didn't want crane clan's opinion. \"That's fine. It was a question in case you did want to speak to the ambassador.\" He said. He gives a nod hearing he had to apologize and renounce his name. \"Well I can only wish Taisei luck. The ronin life is difficult but I'm sure he can pull his weight.\" He said. \"Well we have went over my side which is the same as everyone else who saw the scene. Is Taisei going to help with the rebuilding of the burnt buildings?\" He asked. He wondered who was going to have to pay the monetary value of fixing the scene."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Trust me, I can tell that what you are doing is effortless. I will likely want to speak with your ambassador, yes, but not until this business is concluded at this point. I think I have had my fill of Crane opinions for the time being. That is, unless you would like to share in the responsibility for these events that have led up to this?\" Iemon pinches the bridge of his nose, shutting his eyes once again. *Inner peace... Inner peace... Inner peace.* He lets his mind focus on the mantra alone, clearing his mind of the negative thoughts momentarily. \n\n\"I am sure that your confidence in him is something he values.\" When asked about the rebuilding, Iemon opens his eyes, wearily. \"At this point, since it was something that occurred due to a present member of our Clan, the Phoenix will pay for the repairs from our coffers. It would likely be best for Taisei to have nothing further to do with the Leatherworker's Quarter, or to at least consider leaving the city outright. But in any case, once he is no longer an Isawa, he is no longer my concern.\" *Or responsibility.* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives a nod hearing he'd maybe talk with the ambassador. He gives a nod as he would wonder why he was being so angry. We're All ambassadors like this? He gives a glance over at him hearing his clan would pay for the damages. He expected them to expect Taisei to foot the bill. \"Well I guess I'll return to Taisei-San. He must be worried.\" He spoke giving a glance at him. \"Thank you for the discussion.\" He spoke. He was happy to get out of here as soon as possible. \"Taisei-San told me I can stay with him for a while, I assume that's okay with you.\" He said giving a small glance over at him."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Fine. Yes, it would probably be best to have some sort of distraction for Taisei until everything is resolved.\" Iemon looked down again at his desk, relaxing with the end of the conversation within view. \"You're excused.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives a nod as he does a small bow. He would the. Leave to find Taisei. He wondered why he didn't warn him about the ambassador! He gives a glance around calling for his name."
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "Upon hearing his name being called Taisei ran up to Adohiro. \"Not so loud Adohiro-kun,\" He whispered. \"You'll disturb people. Now, how did it go with the ambassador?\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives a nod hearing him to not be so loud. He gives a smile. \"Sorry about that.\" He said giving a small smile. \"It went okay. I wish you warned me he gets upset pretty quickly.\" He said giving am sigh. \"I just recommended an idea.\" He said. \"It went fine besides that.\""
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "Taisei's brow furrowed when he heard about the ambassador's behavior. \"What idea?\" He asked. \"You didn't say anything to upset him did you?\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "\"I don't think I did but he did look upset. I suggested maybe a sort of trial discussion mediation thing and he wasn't too pleased.\" He said. \"But after he seemed better and he told me he didn't mind me staying with you.\" He said. \"So I think it's okay for now.\""
},
{
"author": "zerend",
"message": "\"Well that's good,\" Taisei replied. \"It's best not to antagonize the ambassador, especially right now. He's going through a lot right. We both are. I thought I told you that there was nothing that you can do or say that can change things. What will be will be. The best thing we can do is move forward and adapt. Now how about we do something. I know! We can either talk or play shogi.\""
},
{
"author": ".drstone.",
"message": "He gives a nod hearing it wasn't best to antagonize the ambassador. He gives a nod hearing they could play shogi or talk. \"Let's do both.\" He said with a smile. \"I bet I'll win.\" He teased with a giggle. \"Should we bet?\" He teased."
}
] | 104.5 | 4,986 |
204.052632 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "It's been a long journey. \n\nAsako Yamanosuke stepped into the embassy grounds and near immediately felt the tension in his shoulders relax. He dismounted from his Rokugani Pony, and set foot onto the cobblestone pathway. Even the cold stone walkway feels more welcoming on these grounds than the other civilized streets surrounding the embassy.\n\nThe midday sun made an appearance, albeit briefly from the clouds, and Yamanosuke was glad to feel the warm kiss from kami upon his face.\n\nHe stepped to the gate of the embassy. Removed his helmet, and steadied his stance. \n\"Asako Yamanosuke to see the Magistrate. I have traveled from Kyuukai Province to serve. I have papers for Lord Shiba Iemon.\""
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "One of the ashigaru stepped forward and gave the papers a once over. Seemingly satisfied, they handed them back. « Greetings, samurai-sama. I will make your arrival known to those you seek. Please stay here. »\n\nTurning on their heel and entering the embassy proper, it wasn't long before the ashigaru returned alongside Sanumo. The young courtier bowed to Yamanosuke, his dark, shoulder-length hair gently swishing as he did so.\n\n« Greetings, Asako-san. I am Asako Sanumo, Karo to the ambassador. In lieu of a clan magistrate, I can process your papers alongside Shiba-sama. Please, be welcome. »\n\nHe gestured across the threshold and quietly guided the newcomer into the embassy and into a small meeting room. The walls were decorated with depictions of mountains that appeared to be jutting out from the walls themselves. The space above the mountains was painted to show a vibrant sunset and a sky broken by the silhouettes of many birds in flight.\n\n« Shiba-sama has been notified and should be here momentarily. Tea will follow closely in his wake. » he seated himself at the table and settled in to wait.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke bowed, respectfully, and seated himself at the table across from the Karo, Asako-sama. The fragrant tea flooded Yamanosuke's senses. It has been a long road from Kyuukai province back in Phoenix Clan lands. The promise of a peaceful moment this afternoon reminded him of home. The smell of tea, the ringing of the temple bells, the wind in the grass, all of it seemed so far away just now.\n\n\"Tell me, Asako-sama,\" Yamanosuke began, as politely as possible. \"How does the Phoenix fare in a City such as this? It seems so far removed from home, and I must admit to feel a bit out of place in the lands of the Scorpion.\" Yamanosuke caught himself probably divulging too much personal perspective.\n\n\"I am sure that a Karo as distinguished as yourself has had time to acclimate to the city...\" Yamanosuke's words trailed off as he lifted his tea to his lips."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "With a light rap on the door, Iemon made his presence known, bowing to both men in greeting. \"Welcome, Asako-san, to Ryoko Owari Toshi.\" He joined them at the table, with the lightest of gestures straightening his orange ambassador's kimono as he settled into his place. \n\nAs promised, the tea almost directly followed the ambassador, who insisted as usual on pouring for both Sanumo and their guest. \"How do we fare? Such a direct question, Asako-san. I appreciate that.\" \n\nHe looked over the new Asako for a moment, assessing. \"Our situation is unique, to say the least. Our focus here, as in the Empire as a whole, is the spiritual well-being of those who live in and near the city. As such, our interests are not in directly controlling the city, but in facilitating a more lasting peace between the Clans. To that effect, we have had mixed success.\" He paused, mentally compiling a summary, and sipping at his tea. \n\n\"Our efforts have shown the Lion and Scorpion to be potential allies to us. That the Lion would appreciate the path of peace is itself a promising sign in and of itself.\" Iemon began. \"The Crane, our long-standing allies, have been mostly silent as of late, only recently reaching out to request a meeting. Similarly, the Dragon have been silent in official matters thus far. The Mantis have been neutral to us, and were thankfully willing to brush aside the insults of a brash samurai that had spoken far out of turn. Relations with the local Crab have been civil, but...\" He paused, glancing at Sanumo, \"With tensions between our Clans rising on the larger stage, it is only a matter of time before that further colors our interactions.\" A tinge of regret entered his voice at this, but he did not allow any change to cross his face. \n\n\"Finally, our relationship with the Unicorn is tumultuous at best. An incident resulting in a duel and a now former Isawa Shugenja renouncing his name to ride the wave has tarnished our efforts at friendship.\n\n\"Officially, the Elemental Council has reopened an investigation into the practice of meishodo and whether it should be considered heretical. To that effect they have sent a trusted Shugenja to investigate the practice with a fresh set of eyes.\"\n\nIemon paused, sipping again at his tea. \"I do not think I am forgetting anything, am I?\" He gave a small amused look to Sanumo. \n\n\"Our chiefest interest beyond peace is in securing a supply of opium for the manufacture of medicines in our home provinces. These are then used across the Empire as a whole, and allow us to help reduce suffering on a grander scale.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The words to reply with had just been on the tip of Sanumo's tongue before his superior had seized the reigns of the conversation - as was his right. He shared an understanding glance with Yamanosuke before paying rapt attention to Iemon's words. Though his eyes were on Iemon, his focus was inwards as he ensured the comprehensiveness of what was said.\n\nHe was not found wanting.\n\n« Your recounting sounds accurate to my ear, Shiba-sama. If there's anything I've learned from my time here, it is that the city never ceases to surprise. We do our best with what comes our way, but there is always a new hurdle to overcome. What matters is that we do so - and with the mindfulness befitting a Phoenix. »\n\n« Our situation is not the one we would have predicted prior to our arrival, but I cannot say that it is one without hope. »\n\n*It has been a peculiar string of months to be sure. To think that we would find the friends that we have beggars belief.*\n\n« I am honored to be part of such a dynamic period of our shared history and I hope that you will come to feel the same, Asako-san. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke was gripped by every word from Shiba Iemon's mouth. His focus was sharp as he absorbed the current state of affairs as presented by the ambassador.\n\n\"Meishodo...\" He let the words escape his lips in a lapse of judgement. \"I had always believed it to be a fable. Something that was told as story to young Shugenja.\" Yamanosuke took a sip of the hot tea. It was fragrant, subtle, and grounded him once again.\n\n\"Surely, I do not understand the Kami as those that have the gift. My lord has informed me that my duty here was to assist in the regulation, trade, and transport of medicinal ingredients.\" \n\nYamanosuke turned to Sanumo-san to pay respect to his point about duty to the Phoenix, \"I am honored to have been tasked with an assignment to Ryoko Owari Toshi to serve. My experience does not take me outside of Kyuukai province, so I cannot speak to relations of other great clans.\" He turned to address the ambassador directly, matter-of-factly, \"I would do that which is asked of me, Shiba-sama. You can count on me.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"It is indeed more than mere fable. Part of the terms that prevented conflict escalating with the Unicorn was their direct request that I petition to reopen the case. That the Council has already sent a Shugenja, let alone one with such direct favor with the Master of Water, shows that it is no tall tale.\" Iemon replied, sipping again at his tea.\n\n\"Assisting in regulation, trade, and transport are valuable skills to add to our available resources. Tell me, though, what are your skills? Have you led others in battle? Are you proficient with the blade, or are you primarily focused on administrative duties?\" He rested a hand under his chin, leaning forward to prop his elbow on the table, his gaze growing more intent as he waited to hear the man speak on his capabilities. \"We will not misuse your skills, I can assure you of that. Proper placement to best allow you to fulfill your duties is part of my responsibility, and it is something I treat with the greatest of of care.\" \n\n*If anything, my being too lax early on may have contributed to our situation with the Unicorn...* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke steadied his breathing. \n\n\"I have been a tax collector for years back at Kyuukai Province, Shiba-sama. I am trained in the arts of Kenjutstu, as on rare occasion, some tax-payers need more convincing than others- particularly when resources are slim. I do not fear the need to unleash my steel, though I prefer it lay at rest.\"\n\n\"I have served in the Shiba Army, albeit briefly. I never saw a battle. I choose to avoid duels as well, though I have never been challeneged. There have been sanzoku on the road to dispatch to keep the peace.\"\n\n\"I have a passion for Kyudo as well, my lord. I have always enjoyed the company of my bow and the whistle of the arrows as they fly. I have never found the daily rituals of Kyujutsu to be work. To be frank, I am quite proud of my abilities for arrows to find their intended destination.\"\n\n\"I am a capable rider, as well. I have always enjoyed riding. I believe it comes from my youth. We were never wealthy, but my father always had a horse in his charge.\"\n\nYamanosuke shifted his weight a little as he sat. He placed his tea on the table in front of him and attempted his best not to show any discomfort, though it was difficult to steady his voice. \n\n\"Being a tax collector, I have also come used to the idea of dishonesty, Shiba-sama. I have a keen eye for documents that have been created in haste or signatures that are not their own.\" His gaze straightened and face braced for the unsavory mention of forgery. \n\n\"I mean no disrespect, Shiba-sama. I do not create documents or deal with unsavory men. I mean only that I have a keen eye to discern what could be forgery. My record is impeccable back in Kyuukai province...\"\n\nYamanosuke stopped. He bowed his head abruptly. \"It is not my wish to speak of such things. My apologies. I am a man of the law. It is my duty to enforce it, and, respectfully, Shiba-sama, I have done so to the best of my abilities. I would not dishonor my father, Asako Yamanoshi, with anything less than my best.\""
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "With Yamanosuke's attention fully on the Ambassador, it gave Sanumo the opportunity to give undivided focus to the tale being told.\n\n*A capable warrior with a wide skill set and more administrative experience than that of the battlefield. I can work with this.*\n\nHe caught the Ambassador's eye and, after receiving a nod to go ahead, interjected. « Shiba-sama, it sounds to me as though our new arrival is a capable combatant, as well as possessed of some people skills and administrative experience. It is my recommendation that we assign him as Captain of the Guard for the embassy. It sounds as though he has most of the talents we would expect and the remainder can be improved if I call upon a favor from the Lion. They still owe me a debt for helping their Karo learn about the city and become integrated. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke swallowed his tea hard.\n\n\"Asasko-sama.\" He started. He bowed at the wait as respectfully as the table would allow. \"You honor me so greatly.\"\n\nYamanosuke's heart was beating hard within his chest. He could feel each beat coursing through to his head. Doing his best to contain his excitement at such an honor, he turned his gaze back toward, Ambassador Iemon, holding his bow as long as his muscles would allow."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"We are honored to have another samurai as dedicated to serving the best interests of our Clan joining us in this city.\" Iemon replied, returning the bow. \"Your willingness to accept such a role shows your commitment to duty.\"\n\nHis nod to Sanumo had hidden the slight surprise at the suggestion, but the reasons given all made for a convincing argument. The skills the new Captain of the Guard had listed all made him sound quite capable. \"Truth be told, I have had to do much to grow into the position of Ambassador here in the city, but we must all seek to rise to such occasions when presented to us. The room to expand our own capabilities beyond is a valuable learning experience, and I have no doubt you shall find your stride and thrive, Captain Asako-san.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke slid himself from behind the table and bowed quite low to the floor. *Captain Asako Yamanosuke* - He was beaming with inner pride, and was trying his best to be humble and gracious.\n\n\"I am deeply honored, Siba-sama. You can count on me. My blade and my heart for the Phoenix Clan.\" \n\nHe returned to sitting seiza and bowed also to Asako Sanumo-san, for it was his suggestion to bestow the promotion upon him. \"I am grateful to both of you. How may I be of service as Captain, Shiba-sama?\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Firstly, taking stock of our current ashigaru, ensuring they are proficient enough for our security will be a good place to start. I am confident they are adequate, but assessing them will give you an opportunity to get to know them.\" Iemon's reading of Akodo's *Leadership* Was beginning to show. *Come to think of it...*\n\n\"In our library we have a copy of Akodo's *Leadership,* A gift from the Karo of the Lion Clan in this city. If you have not read it, this is a perfect opportunity to do so. This copy has annotations by an Ikoma bushi, and his practical insights have given me additional understanding that I would not have even considered had I just the text itself.\"\n\nHe pondered for a moment, stroking his chin. \"Beyond that...\" He looked to Sanumo, \"...That should be a passable beginning, I should think?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« We only do that which is demanded of us, Asako-san. Your thanks is unnecessary, but consequently welcome. » The lines around his eyes betrayed the smile that his lips did not permit.\n\nHe nodded at Iemon's assessment, albeit hesitantly. « I am no bushi, nor particularly versed in military minutiae, but these seem as good a place to start as any. »\n\nA distant look lingered on his face as he began planning something out in his head. « I'll send that letter to the Lion as soon as possible and make sure you both are aware of their reply. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Hai.\" Tamanosuke started. \"I will start familiarize myself with the garrison and see to the Ashigaru. If there is a staff in place, I would appreciate knowing who to reach out to. Supplies, inventory, and training regimen should all be evaluated.\"\n\nAsako Yamanosuke bowed again showing his gratitude and respect. \"You can count on me, Tono-sama. If there is nothing else, I will take my leave.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon rose and returned the bow. \"Thank you, Asako-san. It has been a pleasure speaking with you, and I look forward to seeing our efforts collectively bearing the fruits of peace for this city.\n\n\"I believe the quartermaster and interim leader has been a young heimin named Shin. It will likely be good to allow him to resume his focus on his previous duties.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Hai, Shiba-sama.\" Yamanosuke bowed.\n\n\"I will see to him, directly. Lord Shiba-sama, I humbly thank you for the hospitality and your trust. Asako-sama,\" Yamanosuke addressed Asako Sanumo, \"I will report to you once I have been in contact with Shin-san.\"\n\nYamanosuke bowed to both men, and waited for his moment to leave."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« I look forward to hearing your report, Asako-san. I trust you will notify me if there is anything I can do to help you settle in. »\n\nIt was a relief to have a proper Captain of the Guard again, even if one that required some polishing. \n\n*Heimin should not be left unsupervised to attend to matters of violence. The potential for scandal alone would be of great concern.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"I will be in contact with you as soon as I have an opportunity to touch-base, Asako-sama.\" Yamanosuke replied. Again, with a curteous bow.\n\n\"I take my leave, my lords. Again, you have humbled and honored me and you have my gratitude. I only aspire to live to your expectations.\"\n\nWith that. Yamanosuke shuffled across the floor toward the sliding doorway, and with as much precision as his hands could provide, opened the door. He turned to face the ambassadors within, bowed once more, and slid the door closed.\n\nI great sigh escaped his chest. *Captain of the Guard. Me? Surely the situation here isn't all that desperate. I will muster my courage and provide as much leadership as I am able.*\n\nHe quickly remembered where he was, and gave a quick glance around, hoping to see no one take notice of his apparent relief of stress after seeing the Ambassador. It wasn't his intent to show any signs of weakness or dishonor. He stood and gripped his helm. Holding it at his hip with a sense of pride, he strode his way toward the gate in search of the Heimin known as Shin to bagin his work as Captain of the Guard."
}
] | 174 | 3,877 |
264.111111 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "It was a day with a milder sun when Khulan arrived at the Phoenix Embassy.\n\nTime had passed since she arrived in the City of Lies. She had spent her time getting to know other samurai, familiarising herself with a new routine. But now it was time for her duty, following the directions of her superiors Utaku Kazuko and Iuchi Makoto.\n\nAnd, of course, she had been briefed on the state of their relations with the Phoenix. \n\n*All that was built, shattered by a boy's foolishness. And further cracked by the demands of Honour. I must be aware of this weight.*\n\nThe Clan came first, of course. She was doing her part to strengthen their position. She had studied to find the common ground between *Meishodo* And the kami.\n\nBut the Ide within her did hold hope: This was also an act of goodwill. Cooperation.\n\nClad in her most conventional kimono of light purple, her talismans mostly covered and her hair tied more conventionally, she saw the entrance of the Phoenix Embassy grow in her vision, and the guards outside of it. Once she neared them, she bowed respectfully in greeting.\n\n\"Greetings, noble Phoenix. I am Ide Khulan, shugenja and spiritual consultant of the Unicorn Clan, here on Ambassador Utaku Kazuko-sama's command to meet with your esteemed Ambassador. May I enter?\"\n\nShe would have been let in given the arrangements, and she had made sure to have proof of her purpose and an appropriate gift commissioned, but there was always time for politeness.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Please hold, Samurai-sama. We've been given instructions to follow upon your arrival. The Karo would like to welcome you himself.\"\n\nOne of the ashigaru briskly left the vicinity and, not long after, returned with said Karo. Asako Sanumo had elected to wear a simple, dark-orange kimono with only the mon of the Loremasters present. His hair was left free, save for a length of cord worn around his head.\n\nBowing deeply, he greeted the visitor. \"Ide Khulan-sama. I am Asako Sanumo, Karo to Shiba Iemon. Please, be welcome and follow me.\" He gestured her beyond the threshold and began guiding her towards a pre-prepared room.\n\n\"We will join Isawa Noboru-san soon. I am here today primarily as a witness to the start of this endeavor and to be present should any resources be required in its pursuit. Similarly, as a Loremaster, I take pride in being able to personally attend to this so as to properly record whatever may transpire for future generations. If you have need of me for anything, you need only ask.\"\n\nHaving entered the main building and arrived at the room, he paused briefly at the door to hear any immediate responses or questions and then allowed them both to enter. If the servants had done their job, Noboru would already be within.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru had entered the room as quickly as possible, the room having been prepared to his specifications to set the tone for this meeting. He had specified an eastern room overlooking the interior pond, and firmly away from any non-essential hustle and bustle of the normal embassy day-to-day. A few sticks of incense were lit, a small offering both to the kami that he presumed the Unicorn representative would be as sensitive to as he was, as well as an external reminder of the spiritual nature of their business. *It wouldn't make much sense to send a non-practitioner to discuss such things, I would prefer to give the benefit of the doubt to the Unicorn in that regard at least.*\n\nThough his first impression of the local clan had been less than favorable, he labored to keep his face neutral as the Karo and the Unicorn entered. He was seated at a low table, and stood as they entered to greet with a suitable bow, his orange prayer beads rustling slightly with the motion, the sound evocative of the ocean tide on the shoreline. His kimono was bright orange, the mon of the Isawa proudly emblazoned on his chest, with the faintest of blue thread highlighting the Water symbol on it, a minor personal affectation that he had been granted as the apprentice of the Elemental Master.\n\n\"Greetings, Unicorn-sama. I am Isawa Noboru, and I hope that you are well on this fine day. Has our esteemed Karo offered you any refreshments while we meet?\" His eyes briefly glanced at Sanumo, neutral in his gaze. The younger man had been professional in their meeting, of course, but... There was more than a suspicion that Sanumo did not hold Noboru, or indeed most Isawa, in much regard.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "*Hmm. Jin-kun mentioned he met a Phoenix for dinner. Is it him?*\n\n\"An honour to meet you, Asako-sama.\"\n\nAs the Ide listened, he gave the impression of a diligent and dutiful courtier. \n\n\"The wisdom of the Loremasters is well known; your presence will be most reassuring,\" She commented kindly. With a smile, she added \"This may be a first meeting, but I would not mind having some tea to go with it.\"\n\nBy her tone, it was clear that she was gratefully taking him up on his offer, but also saw her request as a minor one that he needn't prioritise.\n||\n\nEventually, they made it to the meeting room. Its priestly aromas filled the air, and she nodded in approval.\n\nShe could expect such attention to detail from the Phoenix in spiritual matters, but the piety was still welcome. Though this was no shrine, it still paid homage to the kami, and this was a meeting of peace and spiritual harmony, so she clapped her hands lightly once and said a quick prayer of harmony. When her eyes opened, she formed her first proper impressions.\n\n*Trained in the element of Water. He is neutral, but not cold... Though there seems to be control behind him.*\n\nWith a respectful bow, Khulan returned her own greeting.\n\n\"Greetings, Isawa-sama. I am Ide Khulan, shugenja, scholar and spiritual consultant of my Clan. It is an honour to make your acquaintance. I am well indeed; my morning prayers felt most fruitful, and I hope the same holds true for you.\"\n\nIt was polite to engage small talk, and she was able to do so with the right amount of attention.\n\n\n\"Asako-sama has been most attentive. A true credit and asset to your Clan.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "As they had been in transit, he glanced over his shoulder as Khulan mentioned refreshments. \"The Ambassador has drilled a habit into us of having tea present at all of our meetings. If the staff have not erred, and they better not have, it should arrive shortly.\"\n\nTrue to his word, Sanumo entered quietly, bowed in acknowledgement to Noboru, and assumed a place at the table between the two parties. He was content to leave the small talk to the two of them, save for when he was specifically addressed.\n\n*Ideally this will give them some time to scope one another out.*\n\nAside from a rare discussion with Noboru in the leadup to the Unicorn's visit, they had mostly stayed out of one another's hair. So it was that he took in the conditions around him as the two basically-strangers awaited the tea so that meaningful topics could begin in earnest.\n\nThe staff did not disappoint him today.\n\nAs the tea arrived, Sanumo made a point to pour the tea for his guest; Noboru as a visiting agent of the Elemental Council and Khulan in her capacity as a Meishodo practitioner.\n\nPerhaps surprising to both of them, he poured Khulan's cup before Noboru's. It was intended as a minor infuriation to the Isawa, but could very well be written off as \"Not being absolutely certain of Ide-sama's status\" Or \"Being especially courteous to our guest after recent events.\"\n\n*There are much more pressing matters for Noboru to address and he'll seem especially petty if he breaks the flow of proceedings over such a perceived infraction.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru noted the choice to pour tea for their guest with the faintest glance at the Karo, then looked to his own cup before replying to Khulan. \"Indeed, Karo Asako-sama is not one to overlook even the slightest detail.\" Noboru had little doubt that the Asako had intended to give him a slight social snub, but it was hidden behind the propriety of honoring the guest. *Which would have been easier to mollify if I had been the one to pour, but...* Noboru squashed the thought by sipping at his tea once it had been poured. *Vexing, but nothing that needs to be dealt with presently.*\n\n\"My morning prayers were most satisfactory, thank you for inquiring. Perhaps once we are finished with our meeting we may jointly offer midday rites at our embassy shrine?\" A mark of respect to offer such an action, in his mind, especially since the question at hand was one of praxis, this would also offer him an opportunity to observe if there was much deviation between his own rites and the Unicorn's spiritual practices on even the more standard forms of spiritual appeasement. \n\nHe waited patiently for the Unicorn's reaction, sipping again at his tea, and thankful for the practice being so well ingrained at the embassy to have refreshments present for any matters of import.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The possible meanings of Sanumo serving her first did not escape her, but this was still a first meeting. Still too early to tell what it meant to them.\n\nShe sampled the tea, long accustomed to the ways of enjoying the traditional drink. It was a small sip, to not divert from their meeting. But even so, she did enjoy the particular flavours and fragrances mingling in the cup.\n\nNodding to the Isawa, Khulan kept her posture and expression proper: only the smallest of smiles for approval, not expression.\n\n\"That would be most agreeable, Isawa-sama. I thank you for the invitation.\"\n\nThe Ide set her cup down after their brief prelude. With the small talk done as per protocol, they could ease into business.\n\n\"My sincerest thanks for the warm welcome, Isawa-sama.\"\n\nAddressing only him was deliberate; until she had a better read on these Phoenixes, she would defer to rank. Noboru was the one to meet, and so she would treat with and acknowledge him mainly rather than splitting any authority or courtesy between the two of them. He may have been sent by the Elemental Council, but she wasn't sure how his experiences shaped his character, only that he was bound to be skilled and knowledgeable.\n\n\"While I certainly enjoy sitting down to tea,\" She began, \"I am prepared to discuss the matters our Clans have written of. Do I have your leave to begin?\"\n\nShe might have had reason to come on strong given the mishap which led to this concession. But she felt that a hand of peace would better serve than a clenched fist; it would help demonstrate that the Unicorn could be Courteous and Compassionate, and was in tune with their intended purpose.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru nodded, putting the matter of tea behind him as he refocused on their guest. \"I believe that would be most welcome, yes. The discussion of meishodo is one that has been ongoing since the honored Children of Shinjo returned to the Empire. I am quite interested in gaining direct knowledge of the practice, to better advise the Elemental Council.\" The topic of whether it should be heresy or if it was a valid extension of spiritual practices had been a volatile one, to say the least, and he was sincere in wishing to learn more. However, his words were careful to communicate his necessary neutrality and to not promise some great change in policy, and likely more blunt than others may have been in order to get that message across. \n\nHe glanced at the Asako, having avoided bringing any writing materials of his own and choosing to rely on the Loremaster's notes as well as his own memory to preserve the contents of this first foray.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "Khulan nodded in acknowledgement as she sipped at her tea. An apt summary, and neutrally given. The historical baggage of it was well-known to both sides.\n\nAnd thankfully, as an Ide, Khulan wasn't offended by his relatively blunt directness. Her family may have mastered the art of diplomacy, but as Unicorns they also valued forthrightness and pragmatism.\n\n\"Of course, Isawa-sama. And I look forward to studying this together, and sharing what I can about our mystical traditions.\"\n\nSetting the cup down, she folded her hands together, keeping her brown-eyed gaze level.\n\n\"This is a first step, but I hope it will lead to greater understanding between our Clans and schools. In the meantime, my fellow shugenja and I have an idea to put before you. A way to begin our collaboration, and perhaps begin to learn about meishodo.\"\n\nShe spoke with polite but controlled interest. First the courtesies, then her purpose, and her hopes for it.\n\n\"Would the Phoenix be willing to build a shrine to Kisshoten in the Temple District together with us?\"\n\n*And now comes the beginning of our journey. I must take care to find the path to harmony.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "True to his word to the Ide, Sanumo quietly produced materials with which to jot down the various goings-on once tea was poured. Pausing to sip at his tea only as much as decorum required, he penned out the meeting as it unfolded around him.\n\nWhen Khulan proposed her joint effort between the two clans, he took a few seconds to document such and then glanced up, noticing that Noboru was looking at him for input or approval for such a venture. Once Sanumo became aware, his answer flowed instantly.\n\n\"I am confident this is within our means, especially with any support Utaku-sama would arrange, and that Shiba-sama would approve. We will, of course, need to petition the appropriate authorities for the rights to erect such an installation, but I have no reason to expect they will offer resistance.\"\n\n*Though the Imperials are always full of surprises, if the stories are true.*\n\nHe cleared his throat, \"Please, continue.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru nodded his thanks to Sanumo before turning back to their guest. *It only was proper to allow for the material confirmation to be approved before I stepped out too far in that regard. Better to show a united front despite our... Friction.* He thought mildly to himself.\n\n\"A shrine to Kisshōten is a project I would most happily lend assistance to. The records of her as a Fortune have been most carefully preserved by the Isawa family for generations, though there is opposition to her gaining widespread acceptance across the Empire.\" He pondered that last point briefly. \"Certainly, the Scorpion were one of the more vocal opponents to her being acknowledged as a Great Fortune. Building a temple to her here, then, could be considered a grander victory for the cause of her elevation across the Empire.\"\n\nThough this was a welcome gesture of corroboration, the choice of the project was one that, if he were more politically-minded, would give him pause. But Noboru's focus since leaving his military career behind him had turned more than once to the Fortune of Happiness, Fertility, and Beauty, and how those concepts, if better extolled through the Empire, could better foster a more peaceful existence.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The Asako voiced confidence. The Isawa voiced support. And thanks to her studies, she was aware that Kisshoten was favoured by the Phoenix, but not the Scorpion, which Noboru corroborated.\n\n\n*That he is aware of this yet speaks in favour is good. It shows a true desire to serve the city's spiritual needs. But I must not misuse this or take it for granted; that would dishonour this endeavour, and the Fortune we seek to honour.*\n\n\"I am most pleased to hear that, Isawa-sama. Asako-sama. The Unicorn will be glad to discuss how to share in this endeavour to better spread the blessings of Kisshoten.\" Khulan said with cultivated composure, taking a moment to enjoy another sip of tea. \"And besides the shrine's construction, I believe we can also help to bless it.\"\n\nHer serenity swirled for a moment in her demeanour. And the peacefulness in her gaze and tone seemed to grow with a scholar's understated interest.\n\n\"As you might know, Kisshoten actually has a small shrine dedicated to her in the Small Holies. Once the new shrine is ready, I can help to transport the kami of the old shrine there through meishodo.\"\n\nThe word hung in the air for half a moment. Even as it was agreed earlier it would be explored, she understood the concerns surrounding her Clan's mystical traditions. So Khulan took the initiative to pre-emptively address them.\n\n\"It is a safe and simple method,\" She elaborated swiftly. \"I ask the kami if they would inhabit my talisman temporarily, and house them there until they can be properly invested into their new home.\"\n\nThere were many ways the act of housing the kami could develop. But for this first step, she went with the simplest, which rang most true to traditional magic: the kami were beseeched, and ultimately left free.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "It was becoming more and more apparent that the Unicorn had chosen their representative with the utmost care. She conducted herself with candor and grace, expertly navigating the conversation - even having gone so far as to push a potentially controversial Fortune as the focus for their shrine.\n\nIt was a shame that she was a practitioner of Meishodo; her talents could have gone to such use elsewhere. Not that Sanumo had personal grievances with the practice (mostly from lack of knowledge regarding it), but the Elemental Council was often a slow and intractable force. He very much doubted that they would change their mind even if overwhelming evidence was put before them.\n\nAnd if they didn't, that left the Phoenix in exactly the same mire as before - albeit with a little more knowledge on one of a myriad of heresies.\n\nRegardless, those opinions had no place being voiced at this table and so he continued to observe and record for the sake of those who would come well after him.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru nods, his attention rapt on the description given. His knowledge of meishodo was limited to the barebones that was connected to the Elemental Council's decree regarding the practice. *If it is truly an entreaty of the kami, then perhaps the differences are merely cosmetic?* He strokes his close-cropped beard lightly. *The question of how they are able to gain more consistent results is the primary point that made its practice a concern for the Elemental Council.* Seeing it in action would be an opportunity that could not be passed up, if he were to do his duty in investigating it.\n\n\"It will be an excellent opportunity, and will naturally give me the ability to ask pointed questions in the preparation as well as the execution of this method of conveying the kami. I presume it is not an overly technical ritual, which may help me in establishing some basic understanding of meishodo?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "The responses were most promising indeed. Still, she took care to curb her enthusiasm.\n\n\"For the task which I have proposed? No. It asks something uncommon of the kami, but the fundamentals remain the same: We pray to the kami, and discern the best and most respectful way to persuade them.\"\n\n\nNodding to the Isawa, Khulan took another sip of tea and faced the Phoenixes. Her eyes were alight with eager anticipation, kept controlled by her mannerisms.\n\n\"I believe Utaku-sama wrote to you on the matter of reports as well. No changes will be demanded; we only request to also receive them and all updates in this endeavour.\"\n\nShe set the cup down, using a cloth to wipe her lips clean. Her expression was a mix of both a teacher and a student, eager to both learn and teach.\n\n\"But thank you, Isawa-sama, for considering this suggestion,\" She said sincerely. Her sleeves sweeping down, she bowed respectfully, saying \"I look forward to what we shall achieve and learn together.\"\n\nShe held for a moment then rose again, striving to balance courteous regard with the dignity of an equal. For as much as she believed humility and openness were great boons in diplomacy and exchanges, she also knew that as the Unicorn's representative for meishodo, she would also have to stand proud for her teachings.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo appeared largely impassive during these proceedings, the weight of the task ultimately a burden that the other two shared and that he merely facilitated.\n\nWithout looking up from his ongoing penmanship, he answered smoothly. \"You are correct, Ide-sama. Whensoever I finalize a given report, I will make sure it finds its way to her hands. Our burdens are many and varied these days, but I assure you that it will be done in as timely a fashion as possible.\"\n\nNoting her rise in preparation for departure, he spoke sidelong to Noboru. \"Isawa-san. If you both are finished for now, would you please show her the way? I would do so myself, but the ink is still freshly applied and it would be in poor form for me to leave these unattended.\"\n\nNot to mention that it would likely look symbolic to the Unicorn if the Phoenix simply abandoned them the moment it was time for her departure. There was no sense in risking the flames of the incensed - not when it could be helped.\n\nBesides, he had planning to do. This shrine wasn't going to approve itself, after all.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru rose as well. \"Yes, Asako-sama, we will adjourn to our shrine on the embassy grounds here for our midday rites, and then we may part ways.\" He offered a bow to the younger man, keeping the majority of his attention on their Unicorn guest. \n\nThankfully midday rites were relatively straightforward, and their talks had been peaceful enough that remaining in the proper state of mind would be easy to maintain. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "thymont",
"message": "\"I would be glad to join you in your rites with your blessing, Isawa-sama. Asako-sama.\"\n\nShe rose with them, bowing respectfully between the two.\n\n\"And I thank you both for both your hospitality and your cooperation. \"\n\nSure enough, the rites were a simple matter, and both shugenja were in the right frame of mind for it. That was good; as much as some kami, especially those of fire, responded to strong emotions, harmony was always important in ensuring a shugenja's voice was heard.\n\nThe rites would be performed, and Khulan would respectfully part ways to return with a report. \n\nHowever, it would not have escaped the Isawa's notice that while she had clearly foreign influences about her, this Ide who trained under the Iuchi was able to follow and perform the rites with practiced familiarity and due reverence.\n\nShe had studied the traditions of the Empire well enough. One of the reasons she was chosen for this. She only hoped that it would help to lay the foundations for the future.\n\n||\n\n`End Scene`"
}
] | 261 | 4,754 |
206.214286 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "After the address to the Clan samurai, and once others had taken the opportunity to speak with him, Iemon would catch Sanumo's attention and gesture for him to join him in his office. \n\nThe office itself was still relatively sparse, though the amount of papers on the desk had become lessened as well as better organized in the months since Sanumo had first arrived.\n\nIemon would take his seat on the opposite side of the desk, gesturing for Sanumo to get comfortable as well. After the confidence in his speech, Iemon seemed somewhat tired, blinking to clear his head as he relaxed his posture into a more natural position, rather than a pose that served to elicit confidence in his fellows.\n\n\"Not a bad speech, I hope?\" He says, giving a rueful smile. \"Trying to provide stability and guidance as best I can.\n\n\"I had hoped to meet with you both to hear your update firsthand regarding your investigation, as well as to hear your thoughts regarding our options in this city's political climate.\" \n\nHe pauses, folding his hands and leaning forward and lowering his voice to make it clear their words were for their own ears alone. \"Thus far, I have allowed for aid to be offered to the Unicorn's bazaar, which will give us a little goodwill there, while also expressing my concern that the new local leader has a rather martial reputation preceding her. Not that there is anything expressly wrong with a martial focus, of course.\" He pauses for a light chuckle at lightly referencing himself. \"With both the Unicorn and Crane meeting jointly with us, it does make it plain that their alliance still stands.\n\n\"I will also be meeting with Hida Koyama of the Crab to both further our mutual goodwill and also to see if we can align in our interests. But as I said in the speech a short time ago, I feel it is prudent for us to remain friends with all at this point. What are your thoughts on this?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo settled into his seat and listened attentively.\n\n\"No, not a bad speech at all, Shiba-san. I believe the direction will do us all good.\"\n\nUpon mention of his investigation, his bearing changes. He sits a bit straighter and gazes into the middle distance as he thinks over the facts.\n\n\"When I arrived at the Dragon's Nest, I found that Komako had last been there two or three weeks prior. The owner had many potential leads about where she may have gone, but nothing decisive.\" \n\nHe held up a finger as if to stall. \"However, I had a chance encounter on my way out. After some effort on my part, a peasant woman divulged that Isawa-san and Shiba-san have been patronizing a temple somewhere. I leaned on my newness in town to try and arrange a meeting as a well-meaning spirit. The woman seemed convinced that Isawa-san would take us up on it, but only time will tell. One way or another, we're closing in on them.\"\n\nSeeming to come back to the present somewhat, he continues. \"Having been consumed with my search, I admit most of my knowledge of local politics is built on hearsay and what paperwork I simply must attend to between excursions. Based on that, however, I have some ideas. First, I'd like to hear if there are any new developments that may sway me.\" At this point, he learns about our involvement in the bazaar and the upcoming meeting with the Crab ambassador.\n\nSanumo doesn't answer the ambassador's question directly, instead choosing to approach from an unexpected angle, \"From a strategic standpoint, what purpose does neutrality serve? Broadly speaking.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods. \"Several purposes. Firstly, it gives us a degree of separation, which will assist us in both staying out of the conflict as well as, should things begin to escalate, presents us as a solid option to mediate tensions. Secondly, by remaining neutral and courting others to keep on friendly terms, it gives us potential leverage to help push for peace even further if favors are able to be exchanged. Thirdly...\" He ponders his next words carefully. \"...Thirdly, if we are shown to be actively working to keep the peace, that may in turn influence the overseer in choosing who is most qualified to govern affairs in the city in the long run.\"\n\nHe leans back carefully. \"Whether in the end that should come to us, being a force for peace and stability is something that will allow us to better serve either the city directly, or the Clan chosen to do so. There are other factors to consider, which may tip my hand in that last point and aim to press that more directly. Ide Nakato had spoken of spiritual matters before his... Departure, as being part of what motivated the Unicorn pressing their claim, as well as the historical possession of this territory by the Ki-Rin before their original departure from the Empire. If spiritual threats have been allowed to fester...\" His voice is still low, not out of suspicion of being overheard, but out of acknowledgment of this being a topic that was not considered 'widely appropriate' to most other samurai of the Empire.\n\n\"*Patronizing a temple?*\" Iemon responds, incredulous. \"Spiritual matters being of great import, of course, but at the expense of their duties? This is most unseemly.\"\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo paled. Despite his comparative lack of education in this regard, he was still Phoenix and knew the sorts of peril such things could spell. The addition of this topic at the end of Iemon's response caught him off-guard, his speech coming slowly and returning to its normal speed.\n\n\"Be that... As it may... I concur with everything you've said, but... Not with the spirit in which you appear to have meant it.\"\n\nHe shifted in his chair, propping his arm up and resting his fist on the side of his jaw.\n\n\"Those that wish for peace may only have it if they are stronger than those who wish for war. This is not me claiming that the Phoenix need to expand the army and intercede. With so many clans invested in this city, I feel that would only end in disaster.\"\n\nHe paused a beat to include time for contemplation.\n\n\"In my mind, that leaves only the option of swaying the minds of the war-hungry to our way of thinking. I have a plan, if you come to find it amenable, but it ultimately hinges on convincing our new governor that it is a worthy endeavor.\"\n\n\"What if we could avoid war by honoring the claims the Lion, Scorpion, and Unicorn all have on Ryoko Owari Toshi - albeit not in the way they expect?\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon's eyebrows rise in surprise at this last question. *Most unexpected indeed.* \"Let me hear this plan. Honoring their claims to at least their satisfaction would be a stroke of brilliance, given the state things were left at after than fateful conference. There is wisdom in your understanding, though I wish it were not so. Regrettably few outside our clan see peace as a virtue to be desired for its own sake.\" *This is why I needed aid, an outside perspective, an alternate path I would never have considered...*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo nods, \"An unpleasant truth of the age we live in.\"\n\nHe weighs how to best frame his idea, the silence stretching a bit uncomfortably.\n\n\"The Emperor, in his divine wisdom has seen fit to give us an imperial governor - a direct extension of his will. And what is the **Very first** Thing this governor did? He established a council of all the great clans to help steer the fate of the city. I do not think this to be coincidence.\"\n\n\"We are being guided, gently reminded and taught that cooperation between our clans is ideal whenever it is possible. I suspect the governor is not intended to be a permanent fixture, but moreso a tangible lesson.\"\n\n\"My plan is this: We should not struggle against the current of the river; merely influence its path. Let us demonstrate that the clans are capable of joint administration and advisement and then make the case for shrinking the council down to only the Lion, Scorpion, and Unicorn. Each would have a say in the future of the city and would be cowed from violence by the promise of being met by both other clans as adversaries - let alone drawing the emperor's ire whether the governor remains or not.\"\n\n\"Every clan we can convince to support this, whether among those three or otherwise, will also make the proposal stronger when we bring it before the governor.\"\n\nSanumo is trying his best to convey a cool, nonchalant demeanor, but in reality he is racing through a lot of information in his mind and hoping Iemon shares in his vision.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon blinked, his eyebrows raised, and his hand flew up to his chin as he began to actively consider the plan presented. It was... Brilliant. \"I told you when you were assigned here that I had confidence that you were the right man for the job, and I am pleased to have been proven right.\" \n\nHe looked the younger man in the eyes. \"This is the correct path that you have laid before us. While I won't say my thoughts didn't have merit, they were tactical. What you have presented is a grand strategy.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo's eyes shone with the praise and he nearly scrambled to offer a seated bow in order to buy time to school his expression.\n\n\"You are too kind, Shiba-san. I aim only to serve as best I can.\"\n\nTruth be told, his only regret was not having had the plan earlier. As things stood, he wouldn't be able to devote his full effort to it until the investigation concluded.\n\n\"To double back to some of the other topics you brought up, I think your upcoming discussion with Hida Koyama-san is an excellent idea, both within and without the context of our greater goal. The other neutral clans seem to me to be safer to approach with this.\"\n\nAlmost as an afterthought he added, \"Though while I have your ear, I would recommend we approach the Lion first out of the three claimants. While the others have been hotly contesting the city, the Lion have devoted comparatively little to seizing it for themselves. It would benefit them greatly to gain a foothold here without throwing much of the weight of their clan behind doing so.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon folds his hands, nodding. \"I agree, approaching the other neutral Clans will likely be our best bet. In my eyes, the Crab have the most vested in ensuring that lines of trade and supplies remain secure; as such, they will likely be as willing to back this approach as we are. Beyond that... If I observed closely enough, it seemed that until the banquet, the Mantis were in the corner of the Scorpion. Perhaps paying them a visit could provide some insight into their position now?\n\n\"Lastly, the enigmatic Dragon...\" As far as Iemon was aware, they had become even more insular than before. *And to think, most have held the stereotype to the Phoenix until now.* \"You had no luck in reaching out to them to assist with your investigation, as I recall? Maybe they have intentionally distanced themselves from the city's affairs?\"\n\nA visit to speak with the Lion would be necessary, and likely long overdue, even with their aggressive display at the ambassador's banquet, which, realistically, was only the third-most scandalous thing that had happened during that evening.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo nods periodically as he follows along. \"All reasonable observations, though I admit the Dragon's reclusiveness as of late does make me wonder where their focus lies. Regardless, it doesn't seem of immediate concern.\"\n\nHe was still elated to have had such a successful interaction with the ambassador, but knew the fortunes would only let him push his luck so far. \"Should I maintain my current course or would you have me adjust to accommodate our new aims?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Maintain your current course. Resolving the investigation as soon as possible once we have met with the Unicorn and Crane will be paramount. Once that is concluded, we will focus in earnest on your plan.\" Iemon nodded. \"Is there anything further you will need from me to assist with that?\" \n\nAs much as he would like to focus fully at this newest task, leaving old business incomplete would not be acceptable.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"Understood.\"\n\nPausing, he genuinely considered if there was anything he would need in order to end this pursuit.\n\n\"I... Do not think so. Unless we are being misled, I should think that anything we could bring to bear - especially with Shiba Tsutsumi-san on our side - would be sufficient.\"\n\nHe seems resolute, his expression giving no room for doubt. \"I will see it done, one way or another.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods, and considers. \"It may be more expedient to throw more of our resources into a speedy resolution of this, to better free us up to focus as a clan on more civic duties. Isawa Taisei and Kaito Emiko could both be of great service in this matter. I have no doubt you will see it done, that has never been a question in my mind.\"\n\nHe paused. \"As things progress politically, it will be best to have you on hand to assist me, both for my benefit as well as for the sake of better acquainting you with the other major players in the city. That is the motivation behind my desire for expedience, as well as further showing our ability as a clan to coordinate and handle private as well as public issues.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "To say that the additions Iemon granted brought him comfort would be true, but was also dwarfed in comparison to the pride he felt. Yes, he had said that it was in the interest of pursuing their greater goals, but specifically so that Sanumo could also fight on the courtly stage.\n\nHe truly had lucked out with this posting.\n\n« I will see them contacted and this matter concluded as soon as possible. I eagerly await pursuing our plan in earnest, but I understand why it must wait. »\n\n||"
}
] | 190.5 | 2,887 |
212.769231 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_Kashikoi would make his way to Sanumo's office as soon as he could, ambling through the Phoenix Embassy compound with a bit more vigor than most would expect of the Ishiken. He would eventually come to Sanumo's office and kneel outside the room itself._\n\n\"Asako-sama, I am here as you requested. I am coming in,\"\n\n_He would slide the door open, enter and slide it closed before moving to sit before Sanumo with the same reverence he gave to Iemon._\n\n\"You wished to speak?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The Karo looked up from several stacks of paper as his guest arrived. \"Ah, Isawa-san! Your diligence does you credit. Take a seat and I'll be but a few moments before we begin.\"\n\nTrue to his word, he cleared a bit of space on his desk and stepped into the hall long enough to request tea to be brought. As had become embassy custom, the conversation was minimal or kept to dull topics until such a time as the tea arrived and had been served appropriately. Once that had been done, he cut the solemnity with his words.\n\n\"I assume you've read the entirety of the letter I sent, yes? My goal today is to learn what you have been up to since our return from the countryside-\" His words stalled and his eyes unfocused briefly as he recalled the horrors they had fled from \"-and... Uh... Determine if there is a more desirable course of action I could steer you towards to further our clan's agenda.\"\n\nRegaining his composure, he made his request more directly. \"Please, apprise me of your goings-on so that I may make an informed decision.\"\n\nSanumo hadn't really been looking forward to this talk for multiple reasons, but knew that it was important to help cultivate a unity of purpose among his clansmen. He could deal with an Isawa and some... Dark memories briefly if it was for the greater good.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_Kashikoi nodded, smile eternally set on his face as he tilted his head in thought._\n\n\"I have been conversing with the Lion Clan Ambassador after a late night walk encounter at the shrines to the Elemental Kami. Kitsu Himiko and I share much in common and she was in slight distress over something. We talked for awhile before going our separate ways for the night and agreeing to converse more later.\"\n\n_He nodded, blinking slightly as he shifted through his memories._\n\n\"There was also that dinner with the Scorpion we had to create our alliance, which reminds me; I need to reach out to Rokugo-sama about our operation. I am permitted to use my abilities as necessary, yes Asako-sama?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "\"I would hesitate to use such a strong term as 'alliance' to describe what we've cultivated so far, but you are correct in that reaching out to Bayushi-sama is a good idea.\" They had seemed earnest in their dealings with the Phoenix up to this point, but tangible action had yet to be showcased.\n\nHe took a few measured breaths as he considered his reply. \"Please exercise your best judgement regarding your abilities, Isawa-san. After Taisei, I am loathe to give such blanket approval, though you are always welcome to ask more direct questions to myself or the ambassador as they arise.\"\n\nHowever, something Kashikoi had said earlier on had caught his notice. A slight edge bled into his tone and his eyes narrowed marginally. \"You know of something distressing the Lion Ambassador and this is the first I'm hearing of it? Does Shiba-sama know, at least?\"\n\nSuch knowledge could be impeccably useful to have and he hoped that an Isawa's eagerness to probe a problem personally had not cost them in some way.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Not yet, she has not fully divulged it to me. I do know that she has had a few troubles regarding her _Shugendō_ and a few nightmares, perhaps in regards to the Kitsu's unique Medium abilities.\"\n\n_He neglected to mention the Void and training her to more aptly use it. He shook his head, glancing at Sanumo with sincerity._\n\n\"Not yet, it was a very private matter and her duties as Ambassador keep her busy. Soon, however, we will arrange a meeting with Shiba-dono over the matter.\"\n\n_His smile widened, shaking his head._\n\n\"No worries Asako-sama, I will not endanger any chances at union or coexistence with the Lion.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "As Kashikoi explained his reluctance to have shared up to this point, Sanumo procured a sheet of paper and made a note for himself. While the shugenja's words were a sufficient mollification, it was worth keeping this in mind and checking up on it if enough time passed without further development.\n\n\"I understand. We appreciate your delicate hand in these matters.\"\n\nIdly, he drummed his fingers on the table and considered his options. With his... Unique talents, Kashikoi would catch snippets here and there.\n\n*With Taisei gone, I see no way around it. He will have to pick up the slack.*\n\n*What even were those creatures that set upon us? Though they are beyond the city, do they represent a larger threat than what we witnessed?*\n\n*Peace, spiritual health, and the flow of opium for medicine. These are the pillars we stand behind.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"I do not mind having to make up for the loss of Taisei.\"\n\n_Kashikoi actually frowned as he gripped his chin, humming in thought absentmindedly,_\n\n\"I know they were likely _gaki_ but ... There was no mention of them until we walked towards the temple. Perhaps a response to our wayward Isawa, or some other foul machinations a foot.\"\n\n_The idea behind his worry went unspoken, but the palpable concern was certainly noticed._\n\n\"We will achieve our clan's aspirations, Asako-sama. We must have faith that we are capable. Never doubt yourself or Shiba-dono's ability to pick the best and brightest of our clan.\"\n\n_He takes a minute, before blinking and looking closer at Sanumo, sweat dropping comically as he tilted his head._\n\n\"You ... Did not actually say any of that ... Did you, Asako-sama? Apologies, sometimes the drifting waters of the mind sound as the spoken wind to my ear.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*Surely that can't be right.*\n\nHe searched the Isawa's face for any signs of deceit - or even just tomfoolery - and came up dry.\n\n\"You're... Serious about that? You can **Hear** Thoughts?\" The idea seemed utterly ludicrous to him, but it wasn't as though the Isawa hadn't come up with a myriad of peculiar and befuddling tasks to pit themselves against.\n\nHe found his mouth dry, realizing that Kashikoi likely already knew the extent to which he despised the Isawa. The shugenja suddenly seemed much more dangerous than he had been mere moments ago.\n\nBut there was nothing to do except push on and make sure Kashikoi was given no reason to act against him. \n\n\"Right... Well, Taisei used to be in charge of helping the Unicorn screen their bazaar for wares that are dangerous in a spiritual or supernatural sense. With no other viable candidates with which to assign that task to, I'll be arranging a meeting with the Unicorn. We need to determine whether they'd like to have you take that over or cut that portion of the deal entirely.\"\n\n\"Did you say Gaki? Aren't those supposed to be a scary 'campfire story' sort of beast?\" In this moment, the Loremaster showed the full extent of his failure to pick up even the basics of theology at the dojo. Perhaps he could use a refresher.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"You've no worry from me, for now at least, Asako-sama. I can understand why one would harbor ill feelings towards my family, no matter the circumstances of history. Were I any other Isawa, I would not be calling you Asako-sama or Shiba-dono as I do, but here I am.\"\n\n_His smile widens slightly, raising a brow as he chuckles lowly, the sound somewhat menacing given the revelation Sanumo likely is experiencing._\n\n\"So a _gaki_ is less real than a man who can read thoughts and call upon the Void? Or even just speaking to the spirits of the world and calling on their power? Come now, Asako-sama; your lack of faith or theology is unbecoming.\"\n\n_He does give Sanumo a slight disappointed look, shaking his head before humming thoughtfully._\n\n\"Searching the Bazaar would be similar to my existing position, as spiritual adviser. Would work well, and I find I might have an easier time than most integrating with the Unicorn there.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Being admonished by an Isawa, even to a minor degree, stung his pride. It also didn't help that it was in an area he was *Well aware* That he was lacking in. There was simply no good rebuttal to the truth, and so he clenched his teeth in impotence.\n\n\"Your point is taken.\" His clipped words outwardly betraying his emotional state, were it even necessary with Kashikoi in his head. \n\n\"I will let you know how the meeting with the Unicorn goes as soon as I am able. Is this... Talent of yours common knowledge? You haven't asked me not to speak of it and I worry what other clans will think if they know you capable of such things.\"\n\nAfter the Isawa's response, he would double back (begrudgingly) to the topic of the likely-gaki. \"You've been rather quiet about these gaki in the time since our journey. Is this... Not of concern? At the very least, they will set upon travelers.\"\n\nHe refused to state it directly, but the unspoken 'You would know better than I, in this matter' hung in the air.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"No, I imagine the clans would not allow an Ishiken anywhere if they were to know of this particular talent, wouldn't you not allow me in anywhere?\"\n\n_He nods at the response concerning the Unicorn, smiling as he tilts his head._\n\n\"I look forward to hearing word.\"\n\n_He frowns and hums,_\n\n\"As for the _gaki_, they are of concern, but we must determine how they came here from the Realm of Slaughter. We can let the officials know so as to bolster their caravans, but we cannot do with widespread panic, which would lead to witch hunts and baseless accusations. We must be careful in how we navigate this.\"\n\n_He notices, mostly because he can hear the sentiment within Sanumo's mind._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "The sweeping cold of realization hit Sanumo like a runaway horse.\n\n*The Imperials. I haven't told the Imperials. If anything happens to the city and they find out that we had forewarning, I may as well melt down my daisho!*\n\nMany, many things had been heaped upon the courtier lately and it was only inevitable that something would elude his notice. He only hoped that this lapse wouldn't be fatal.\n\n\"You are, of course, correct.\" His words came slowly at first, the momentary dread having hit him hard. \"I'll make sure they are aware of the situation. If there is nothing else, I would return you to your duties so that I may consider how best to approach these matters.\"\n\n\"And Isawa-san.\" He added as the shugenja (presumably) went to depart. \"Thank you for your service.\"\n\nThere were many mixed feelings that went into that remark, but Sanumo found himself begrudgingly appreciative of the restraint that Kashikoi had shown. Many others would, and likely have, used such powers as his for terrible, terrible goals.\n\nIt remained to be seen whether he would join the ranks of the ill-intentioned, but at least he wasn't among them yet.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"You are welcome, Asako-sama.\"\n\n_He does begin to gather himself, but he stops. Visibly pausing for a moment before looking at Sanumo, face devoid of his smile._\n\n\"I understand your ... Shall we say, frustration to be polite, with my family. The Isawa are not as the Shiba, the Doji or even the Bayushi, descended from Kami. Our father even made our clan's Kami kneel, such was his hubris.\"\n\n_Kashikoi keeps his voice low, his stormy grey eyes not wavering from Sanumo's as he speaks; the gravity of what's being said is palpable._\n\n\"Thus, I do not take offense to your caution. Of your using your position of authority. In fact, I applaud and respect that, just as I, whether you believe my words or not, respect _you_ and Shiba-dono. I may be the Isawa, but I am no man's master, until I am given a Yojimbo or position as such.\"\n\n_He bows, deeply; more than any Isawa would to anyone aside from higher ranks and other Isawa._\n\n\"Be calm. Be at peace. We will solve these dilemmas, and fulfill our objectives. And,\"\n\n_He stops bowing, walking to the door before glancing back over his shoulder, smile returned._\n\n\"I will not read your mind intentionally, as of this moment. Be well, Asako-sama. May the Fortunes favor you in your duties.\"\n\n_With that, Kashikoi makes his leave._\n\n||"
}
] | 210 | 2,766 |
149.666667 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "It was late in the morning when Shiba Terumi found himself in the library of the embassy, drawn to the place of knowledge by boredom and the sudden desire to increase what he knew after he completed his lone training. \n\n_I should rectify that,_ he idly thought. _Hopefully Shiba Iemon-sama would be willing to spar in the coming days._\n\nHe was dressed in modest clothes, a kimono of simple black and white, while he browsed the literature available to the embassy—and there was a small and pensive smile on his effeminate face, his silky black hair untied and falling low on his back.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita entered the embassy library, looking around at the various adornments, appearing to admire the architecture, or maybe just getting her bearings. She absently reached to tuck a strand of loose hair into the beaded comb that clipped back her long hair. Her light orange kimono decorated with cherry blossoms still showed some dust from the road, but seemed high quality. Her movements showed a certain poise as she stopped just inside, noticing another occupant in the space.\n\"Oh, I hope I have not disturbed you.\" She bowed to the smiling samurai. \"I am Asako Kita, just arrived here to the city. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Terumi turned his head to the sound of a new voice and the smile already on his face widened, appeared more welcoming at the sight of a new face. \n\n\"It is a pleasure to meet you, Asako-san.\" He greeted, bowing politely at her. \"I am Shiba Terumi.\"\n\nThe serene smile on his lips surely was pleasant enough at first glance but there was an uncanniness to it. The Shiba was young and pale, even pretty on the standards of womenfolk, but his eyes did not reflect the lightness of his words or the friendliness of his smile. Terumi's eyes were gentle ... But empty, like staring into a pool of nothingness, blank and foreboding like the stillness of a deep lake.\n\n\"Rest assured, Asako-san.\" He said, still smiling. \"You have not disturbed me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Asako Kita found herself initially starting to smile as well at the friendly greeting, the pretty Shiba's smile holding her attention momentarily. But her gaze shifted next to his eyes. Her own widened, unsure what she was seeing. She fought the urge to step back, retreating from the foreign depths those eyes held. It reminded her of a nursery story the servants would tell to scare naughty children. \n\"I, uh, yes.\" She delicately cleared her throat and started over. \"Very good. It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance Shiba-san. I was sent with a delivery of requested additional volumes for the collection here. It seems there is a good start to it.\" She turned to regard the scrolls housed within the library, looking away from Shiba Terumi's unsettling countenance. \"Do you have a particular favorite?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"I read Kakita's 'The Sword' quite often but I do not think that I have a favorite piece of literature.\" He replied, smile turning a bit thoughtful as he briefly returned his gaze to the scrolls he has been browsing before she arrived.\n\n\"I hope to find something that would make for an interesting read, Asako-san. Alas, most of these are historical records and treatises about the honored kami.\" \n\nThrough entire sentences, Terumi's smile remained affixed upon his pretty face.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "As the Shiba responded, continuing the conversation on a topic intimately familiar to her, Asako Kita found herself starting to relax slightly. \n\n\"Ah yes, a very classic piece. 'In the sword you can find the truth.' I believe it says. Not the I have ever found much use for the sword myself, words can cut just as deeply.\" Silence hangs in the air as she seems lost in her thoughts for a moment. \n\n\"But the Crane are said to have a great many text on military history. It would be an aspiration to some day see the originals. But the likelihood of that... Regardless it appears that I will have an assignment here if the Ambassador has his way, and I will surely accept.\" At this Kita's expression gives way to a smile of her own. \n\n\"I've brought some new volumes to add to the collection. Perhaps you would be interested in reading my something new?\"\n\n||"
}
] | 152 | 898 |
338.222222 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon led Taisei quickly to the same small dining room that he had received Kazuko in previously. Two other servants had already lit it and were finishing ensuring everything was in order before departing. One of them shot a look of annoyance at Taisei before disappearing into the hall. Seeing that things had been made ready, Iemon took a position to greet Kazuko, gesturing for Taisei to follow him. Upon entering, he would bow in a full dogeza. \"Utaku-sama, let me begin by apologizing for the great trouble my clanmates have caused.\"\n\nHe kept his position fully facing the ground, hoping Taisei was adequately following his example. He wasn't sure how this meeting would go, but he did not have high hopes for a positive outcome.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "__Some Minutes Earlier__\n\nThe Phoenix Embassy doors were opened with no little amount of force as Kazuko stormed in. The ashigaru at the gate she had simply pushed past were flanking at a respectful distance, not wishing to cause a disturbance with the samurai but clearly maintaining readiness.\n\nA humble steward would halt Kazuko's advance. She had no qualms of forcing her way through soldiers or samurai who stood in her way, but this poor soul deserved none of that. \"Samurai-sama, may I ask why you are here?\"\n\n\"Shiba-san. I will speak with him tonight.\" A demand.\n\nThe servant bowed deeply. \"A hundred apologies, samurai-sama. The Ambassador is delayed in an important meeting tonight and asked not to be disturbed.\"\n\n\"You will tell him Utaku Kazuko is here and *Will* Speak with him. If he is indisposed, I will wait. All night if needed.\" She sat down in the waiting area at that. Her long hair lay tied back and unadorned, her kimono plain other than the fact it clearly identifies her clan, her face unmade. This was not a social call, nor was it planned. Fuyuko stood attentively next to her, glance flicking between the clearly unnerved steward and her exhausted lady.\n\n||\n\nThe entryway to a very familiar dining room graced Kazuko as she stepped in before the Ambassador. With him was a sniveling, long haired boy who she could only assume was the Isawa in question. The Ambassador dropped forward into a bow. Kazuko stared on impassively. Had it not been so long ago that she found herself on that very floor, begging for forgiveness?\n\n\"Trouble? You call everything that has transpired *Trouble*? No, Shiba-san, we are far past mere trouble.\" She glared at the Isawa in the room. It would be so easy to put this to an end right now. Iemon might even understand; he seemed a decent enough man. \"Get this one out of my sight before I decide his grievances are no longer worth my patience and goodwill.\"\n\nOnce he departed, she would sit before Iemon, removing her daisho and placing it on her left side. There was no way to undo what had already been set in motion as she watched the bridge the two had begun to build together slowly begin to smolder. By the end of the evening it may well lay in tatters ablaze. \"Speak, then. Explain to me why you allow such madness to take place among your subordinates.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon rose and gestured for Taisei to leave, mirroring then Kazuko's position, though he seemed visibly unused to setting his own daisho on the left when discussing Clan business.\n\n\"You are correct, *Trouble* Is too mild a term, of course. The fact that one who had come here with the intent of assisting with matters in this city could conduct himself so has left me... Well outside of any of my previous experiences.\" He looked it. The indignation from Masanori's visit. The shock of how Taisei had described the incident, and his decisions leading up to it. The frustrated sorrow of the lost opportunity that it had seemed was all but assured to provide a stable foundation to build true peace. All tried to war for position on his face.\n\n\"There is no apology or excuse for what has occurred in the Leatherworker's Quarter. This is the first that I have been made aware of our local Shugenja acting in such a way. Had I any indication earlier, I would have been able to be more proactive in preventing such scandal... Such *Harm.*\" \n\nHe pauses, collecting himself. \"My ignorance, and my excuses, are unworthy of your time. I accept the failing as mine, and can only offer my deepest apologies, and put actions in motion to prevent such things in the future.\" He bows again, forehead to the floor, and rises back to his sitting position.\n\n\"I also must express my gratitude that Utaku Masanori-sama is not injured worse, that the girl will live, and that you have not sought to besiege the embassy.\" Though it would be easy to interpret sarcasm in his words, he stated these last three things with a steadfast sincerity. In the time since Masanori's visit, he had come to terms with the fact that alliance was all but off the table. He hoped, at barest minimum, that open conflict could at least be avoided.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"I am not some barbarian to set your embassy ablaze and plunder it, though apparently that is what we are seen as by your ilk. Would I have marched against your Embassy it would have been to encircle and prevent escape until justice was had.\" The rising anger threatened its way up again, and she once more pushed it down. This was a meeting between diplomats, not a clash of soldiers. She had to stay controlled. Find the center of the sandstorm and ride into it. \"But be thankful that he still lives. Had the son of the daimyo placed into my care died then rest assured nothing—not your soldiers nor my commitment to maintain peace—could have stopped my vengeance.\"\n\nIf not for his station, then for her brother. Iemon needed not know that however. Personal relations would simply cloud everyone's judgment on the matter. Best to keep it out of the picture. And the girl? It was not enough that she still lived. Iemon needed to understand.\n\n\"Do you know what keeps the heimin and hinin from turning? Not fear of reprisal. This can only work for so long. No, it is the hope that what the stewards of the Tao, of the Fortunes, is true. They trust the words of the shugenja that by living good, productive lives they will have an opportunity for a better reincarnation. Then one of those very same leaders they look to does *This*.\" The repercussions of this act went far and widely beyond simple acts of violence. Kazuko struggled to keep her hands moving as fast as her thoughts progressed; there was so much to say. \"The people of the city are already scared. I have been working, alone among the clans with barely any support from the rest, to ease their concerns. To prove the samurai of the city are worthy of their trust. I cannot do that and at the same time let this offense against the people's very foundation of belief simply be ignored.\"\n\nThere was anger etched into every fiber of her, and yet also regret. It was never supposed to come to this. She took a deep breath. \"I hoped you and I shared a vision of something greater. Yet it is clear the samurai you represent, and thus the clan you serve, does not wish for the same goals as mine. I will not—*I cannot*—in good faith work closely alongside those who spit in the face of bringing peace and order to this city.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon fought to master an impassioned retort, and mostly succeeded. \"I do not see your Clan in such a manner. I offered thanks because Utaku Masanori-sama was quite... Strenuous in assuring me that would have been the course of action you would have taken. When I protested and asked if I had misunderstood, he proceeded to assure me my understanding was correct. If I have caused further offense in believing his words, then I apologize again.\" He left aside much, retreading old ground would not yield better results. Especially since her arriving here with only her interpreter firmly dispelled Masanori's assertion to the contrary. Her words were sound. Frankly, had he been seriously injured, let alone killed, Iemon would have prepared his death poem immediately upon hearing so.\n\nHe nodded, listening to her explanation, which in turn aligned with his admittedly limited theology. \"We are agreed, this offense must absolutely be addressed. Publicly, and definitively. Until speaking with Utaku Masanori-sama, I had not even considered a divergence of our goals, even if that meant that we, and our Clans, would not proceed as friends in light of this. The maintenance of peace and order in Ryoko Owari Toshi remains my calling. No matter how foolish, the actions of one Shugenja does not change that.\"\n\nHe paused, considering his words. \"My clan, and my samurai, believe in the cause of peace. What must I do to prove this?\" Iemon swallows, bowing again. \"When last we met here, your words were more than enough to convince me that we both sought peace and prosperity for the city as a whole, not just for our Clans. In this case, I know that words will not accomplish anything, and action is needed. What do you propose?\" \n\nHe rises again from the bow, his face resolute. \"Even if we cannot work closely with each other, if there are actions I can undertake to prove we do still share that vision, I will undertake anything within my power to do.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"After these events it does not surprise me that the first thought to run through the mind of a Phoenix when the word siege is used would be that of wanton destruction. Rest assured the Children of Shinjo are far more civilized in their actions than your assumption. We will address this later.\" In part because of the more personal nature, and in part because it was the offense she least looked forward to discussing. The Ambassador asked how to show remorse through action, and action is what Kazuko sought.\n\n\"The Isawa's career is over. He should never again defile a shrine with his presence. He will issue a public apology on the streets under guard. What happens to him after, I leave to you. Know this, though: if I or any of my samurai see him representing your clan again, his life is forfeit. If you try to silently shuffle him back into you clan's lands, his life is forfeit.\" By all rights, Kazuko could ask for the man's life. However, for this one to bear the weight of destroying an alliance, to know he would suffer under that? It was far more fitting. \"Any future work done by one of your shugenja will require direct oversight by another clan.\n\n\"Second, the Unicorn will not proceed with any plans for a multi-clan government of this city so long as the Scorpion remain a part of it. There is no future of this city that includes both them and us.\" She did not want to end these plans; in her eyes they had merit. Yet she had warned the Phoenix that someone would seek to cut out the Scorpion from the triumvirate. That someone was her.\n\nKazuko touched the dark wooden pendant carried on her neck, the same exotic wood she gave in gift to the Ambassador not long ago. The work of her betrothed. She had the opportunity to push for a better future for him and his family. \"Third, you will push for a recanting of the Elemental Council's spurious claims of meishodo as heresy.\"\n\nHer terms were laid out for the political side of the controversy. Now to hear the response of the Phoenix, and then to the unpleasant business.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"I beg your pardon, Utaku-sama, but I must address this now, before discussing the terms you have presented.\" Iemon bowed slightly as apology for his dissent. \"This is now the second time that you have inferred a lack of civilized nature on the Children of Shinjo. I have not spoken those words, nor would I, when I do not believe them.\n\n\"As I said, I asked Utaku Masanori-sama to clarify his statement. Leading up to that he had arrived here, justifiably angry at these events. Accompanying him was a company of guards, which is his by right of his station.I had immediately apologized, offered reparations, and accepted what he had told me, as I would for *Any* Honorable samurai of the Empire. I dared to dissent when he stated that, had it not been him arriving at the embassy gates to demand justice, it would have been you *Laying siege* To us. I dissented, because I had thought, even if you had come with a greater force, you would have come seeking justice and... Allowed me the ability to make the right choice, as you are now. Had I refused justice, especially when Isawa Taisei admitted without question to his terrible decision, you *Would* Have been justified in seeking to right that wrong however you saw fit. But *That* Is not what he had said to me.\"\n\nHe shuts his eyes, fighting to keep his tone measured. \"He came here and instead of returning the same courtesy I offered, assumed that I would resist justice, and made clear threat to my charges, and my Clan. I would respond the same way of any who came and made such demands of me.\"\n\nIemon bows, once more. \"So before we discuss these terms, I ask that you not put words of condescension or accusations of barbarity into my mouth, because I assure you they are not there. Utaku Masanori-sama was well within his rights to end Taisei in the street. That he did not speaks to his restraint. I only regret that our talk had grown heated before I had the chance to express that.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Kazuko remained silent, long and poignant, after Iemon said his piece. Slowly things were coming into focus for her about this incident between Masanori and Iemon. The anger within began to boil up once again, only this time not due to the shock and violence of the situation leading up to this meeting. Instead, it was due to the tragedy of it all.\n\nThe Phoenix clearly did not understand what Masanori had meant, and Masanori was in no state to split hairs with the man. Had the Ambassador been a fellow soldier he would likely have understood the Utaku's words as they were meant. Every siege had a purpose, and in the mind of a battlefield commander the duration of such was unimportant, only the methods and goal: encircling and cutting off supplies until terms were met.\n\nBut these were the situations they found themselves in, places neither wished to be and yet had to carry on undeterred. After what may have seemed like an eternity, the taisa nodded, then moved to speak. Her features remained as cold and implacable as ever. \"Utaku-san has served with distinction under my command, and he knows well how I act on threats against those under my command. He does not speak idly or rashly on the nature of my response.\n\n\"However, whether a siege of moments or months would have depended entirely on the nature of the Ambassador's reaction to my efforts to parlay.\" Her tone softened slightly as she met Iemon's gaze with perhaps a small measure of understanding. Given what she knew of the Ambassador, it was unlikely it would have lasted long enough for any effects to be noticed other than intimidation, let alone longer than the initial meeting. \"It is often said that commanders on the battlefield speak a different language even than those soldiers under their command, let alone scholars and diplomats. Failure to understand each other in times of duress is . . . Understandable, but regrettable.\"\n\n*Extremely regrettable, in this case.* \"Proceed.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The silence had been nearly unbearable as he awaited Kazuko's response. With her words came a small measure of relief, but the tension was quickly filled with a flush of shame. He bowed his head for a moment, regaining his composure as best he could. \"I again have only my own ignorance as reason for my actions, then. No matter the outcome of the rest of this discussion, I... I will ask to apologize to Utaku Masanori-sama for my misunderstanding.\" \n\nHis education had been in individual combat and in courtly approaches. He knew the basics of grander scales of war, but actual practical knowledge had never been offered to him. *Once again, a shortcoming of my own that I must address.*\n\nHe gave a quick exhale, and returned to the current matter at hand. \"To your terms, then. Isawa Taisei will make a public apology. I will advise him that he relinquish his name, and either retire to a monastery or take up the Path of Waves. What he does after that will be up to him.\" This was easy enough. If anything, he was fortunate to be able to keep his life. \"Direct oversight of any future work of Phoenix Shugenja I cannot agree to. Indefinite policing due to the actions of one man I cannot accept. The discipline Taisei receives will show the seriousness we treat this with, and that Shugenja are not above the Duty of all samurai.\n\n\"Your second term is heard, and understood.\" What little he had learned thus far of the Scorpion having multiple cartels within the underworld had already given him some inclination on that regard. He did not relish bringing this news to Sanumo, nor did the prospect of attempting to outright deny political say to the Scorpion in the middle of their lands as easily sustainable. \n\n\"To the final term, I will offer to sway the decision, but I feel that such efforts will be in vain... Without an official investigation.\" He paused, his eyes slightly unfocusing as an idea occurred and he considered how to approach it.\n\n\"The events regarding Taisei will be something the Council will wish to send an investigator for themselves, someone hand-picked by them. Through this investigator, we may be able to accelerate a case to cause them to recant these claims.\" It would be the fastest way to ensure the Elemental Council heard the case as fairly as possible. Especially considering the service the Unicorn had done in preventing an Isawa Shugenja from tarnishing their name further, as well as having one of the wronged parties be the son of a daimyo? *It may even be enough to sway them based off of that alone.* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "The reaction to the terms was . . . Surprisingly straightforward. Easy acceptance save for the one she had the least hope of establishing. The matter was progressing as smoothly as possible given the circumstances. Still, allowing the Phoenix to police their own members without any guarantee other than word? \"I will not accept that the investigation be handled entirely internally. Too often clan errors are silently shuffled off into obscurity and nothing is learned from them. An Iuchi shugenja will be arriving in the city soon. I expect all information regarding the investigation be shared with him.\"\n\nEverything of clan import was settled. Now there remained the most unpleasant business. She glanced down at her hands as she figured out how this should be addressed. Not a single tremor to be found in them today. \"There is also the matter of personal honor. Utaku Masanori-san was personally assaulted by this attack, then his honor called into question in regards the truthfulness of his words. In turn, the will to act decisively of his commanding officer was questioned.\n\n\"Many things are expected of the heir to the daimyo. Chief among them a preparedness to defend oneself from any claim of weakness, or claims of dishonorable conduct by those under their command.\" It would be clear where this was leading to a Shiba. Whether intentional or due to misunderstanding there was an order to things here, actions that now must be taken to preserve reputation. \"However, your efforts to clear the miscommunication between us are heard and noted. I am not in the business of seeking satisfaction for sleights wantonly. We both know where the root cause of these issues lies.\"\n\nSitting as straight as possible, gathering full command of the room as best she could, Kazuko laid out the challenge. \"I demand a duel for attacks against the honor of both myself and those under my command. Seeing as the actions of Isawa Taisei are the root of these events, the blame lies on him. It will be his last act as samurai of the Phoenix to provide me with personal recompense. Give me the name of his yojimbo so that I may know the champion I shall send mine against.\"\n\nIt was only natural that he had a yojimbo, of course. Every shugenja should have one assigned to them. In fact, the failure was as much on whoever was meant to serve as guardian to the fool as it was the fool himself. If a lesson could be made of them at the same time, so much the better.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon considered. \"I think that would likely be agreeable, as long as the Iuchi Shugenja would be willing to assist and explain matters as well. If an agreement for information to be exchanged can be reached, I would assume it would only smooth the investigation further.\"\n\nHe settles his position slightly.\"Indeed, personal recompense is owed in this regard. The blame does lie with Isawa Taisei as the root cause. I thank you for acknowledging my attempt to shed light on my own addition to the charge here.\"\n\nHis mouth tightens. \"However... As I had said when first we met here, the resources of the Phoenix are drawn tightly in this city. He does not have a Yojimbo at present. Not... A personal one at least.\"\n\nIemon's face shifts to a look of surprising calm, a small, strange note of pride singing in his heart as his duty was left clear to him. \"I am sworn, as the Kami Shiba had sworn, to defend the Isawa. If this is to be Isawa Taisei's last act as a samurai, then I will serve as his champion.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "There was a part of Kazuko who knew this would be the case. The vindictive, darker aspects of her being may even have hoped it. The Kazuko of five years ago would have jumped at this opportunity. Tonight, though, all she had was weary acceptance. If this is how things had to turn out, then so be it. The challenge had already been placed, she was unable to turn back even if she wished.\n\n\"You will not reconsider?\" It was asked knowing the response and flatly, but she wished he would. She produced documents, and placed them before the Ambassador. All the legal groundwork required for this to take place properly. \"Since we are the leaders within the city, the terms and agreements can be agreed on directly between us. I have laid the charge, you may set the method.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon looks at the papers for a moment before responding. \"I will not, but I thank you for the courtesy you offer me.\" \n\nHe falls silent, considering the suitability of the method. \"This concerns the son of a daimyo, so First Blood is an appropriate minimum for such stakes. I will use Kenjutsu and will fight unarmored. I will offer to my opponent their preference on both, as long as their preferred weapon is melee.\" By rights, he could have demanded to be met in like kind, but partly out of consideration of the offense he had caused, an additional concession, he hoped, would display his sincere desire to make things right.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "\"Very well. I find the terms satisfactory. I will send word once preparations are complete. As this is a matter of personal honor and not clan, I do not require it to take place in front of all to see. I am agreeable to hold this within the grounds of either embassy if you are.\" It was a final act of goodwill that she make their grievances a public spectacle. She owed the man that much. \"A private delegation from our clans as witnesses and an arbiter must be agreed upon.\"\n\nThe Battle Maiden had never been one for the formalities of a court duel. The sleights received on the battlefield were answered immediately and without the unbearable amount of bureaucratic minutiae she had to go through here. That did not mean she was unaware of the necessity. It would take place decently, appropriately, and orderly; none would call into question its validity or result."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"If you are agreeable to it, we can host it here on the Phoenix embassy grounds. For private delegations, I am amenable to suggestions, but likely no more than five to a side seems a reasonable limit?\" Most duels Iemon had seen had typically been the full court, multiple Clan affairs that encouraged much gossip and fluttering of fans as all speculated to the true nature of the duel. This had no need of such theatrics, and he was grateful. \n\n\"For a neutral arbiter, perhaps we could ask Hida Koyama-sama? I have known him to be an honorable man in my time here thus far, and feel he would be a good choice. Do you have an alternative suggestion?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "Kazuko had not yet met the Crab Ambassador, but she heard he was a decent sort. There was also the benefit of the Crab not being the sort to take sides on this matter, whether intentionally or not. There was no qualms in her mind to this. \"I do not object. If Hida-san is amenable to it, I will accept his adjudication.\"\n\nAll matters addressed, she bowed curtly before preparing to rise. The disaster could have proven much worse. Still it was as if the taisa had made such grand strides forward only to be thrown back and a door slammed in her face. Was this how her career would be known? The unskilled diplomat who was unable maintain a foothold in the political arena she never asked to enter in the first place. No, even if she was beaten back here she would not allow it to define her legacy. She could not. There was no option.\n\n\"Ambassador Shiba Iemon-san, the Unicorn are thankful that you address such failings among your clan with expedience. Though the grievances are severe, it prevented far greater catastrophe.\" She moved to fasten her daisho back into her obi, then paused, looking down for a moment. Fuyuko offered an arm to help her back up to her feet. As she accepted, the steel in her conviction would drive home her final remarks. \"However, know we will be watching. The Kami Shinjo believed all deserve a second chance, and I remain devoted in her footsteps. Neither she nor I suffer a third.\"\n\nThere was no biting, hot threat to her words; only grim, cold truth. It was fortunate Kazuko met with the Ambassador before these events, that the goodwill formed between the two could be spent here to temper the blow. If there was a next time, there would be none left to serve as a barrier.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon would bow and rise as well. \"The Kami Shinjo was wise, as are you.\" He pauses for a moment, almost unsure of himself. \"I... Beyond matters of Clan, I am sorry that these things have come to pass.\"\n\nHe bows, this time only from the waist, and holds the position. \"I never had the chance to express my gratitude for your generous gift. The shogi set is of masterful quality. I am saddened that I may not be able to think of it as a gift from someone who considered me friend after all this. But I...\" His voice hitches, and he pauses to steel his words and compose himself. \"...I only wished you to know I was grateful for your thoughtfulness.\" He finally rises, and he blinks slowly, the edges of sorrow seeking to escape the cage he has placed it behind. \n\nThis was a major blow. For his 'career,' of course. But to the cause of peace, even more so. Iemon only hoped that he could serve to heal what damage was in his power to reach.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "She rose. Iemon's words were painful in more ways than one. The gift itself was carefully selected with the Ambassador's personal interests and tastes in mind. It was meant to show thoughtful consideration and effort toward an understanding of the two clans. That it had been understood as such and yet nothing more would come of it now because of how the pieces played out?\n\n\"Cedar.\"\n\nAt the threshold of the room she paused. One arm was on Fuyuko, the other hand rested on the wooden frame. The quiet word leaving Kazuko's lips would have been heard through the silence that pervaded the room.\n\n\"The floor. It smells of cedar. We both know now.\"\n\nWithout waiting for a response, she walked determinedly and steadily toward the exit of the Phoenix Embassy. When next she arrived it would be with champion astride to clear the affront to her and her brother's honor. The peace of this place would be marred with steel and blood. This is what she was used to: war and violence to uphold what was right.\n\nWhy did it feel so hollow?\n\n||"
}
] | 391.5 | 6,088 |
300.076923 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon had finished reviewing paperwork regarding the ongoing efforts the Phoenix had committed to in the city. *Too thin... We're stretched too thin for all that needs done.* \n\nHe hoped the request of qualified samurai had continued to make its rounds in the home provinces of the Phoenix Clan. A few more key individuals would help shape the character of their campaign in the city. As things currently stood, they were at a state of balance, perhaps with a greater Shugenja presence than was usual. Though the favor of the Kami was a worthy asset to pursue, tangible gains would be their only way to move forward in the long run. Being alone, he permitted himself to sigh with frustration. He hated to admit it, but with the added mentions of spiritual threat in Ryoko Owari Toshi, he was unsure if they *Could* Afford to spread tasks any thinner without losing effectiveness entirely.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bronzycoder",
"message": "Katsuki felt as though he had spent far too long walking for this city to be what he was greeted with. He should have expected he wouldn't enjoy a place with a name such as this, but he had uncharacteristically held out hope. However, what he did or did not like was of no consequence. He was here to carry out his duty, and it was of the highest importance. It always was. There had been requests sent out to the clan, and it would be a misstep not to abide by that. Besides, there had been talk of something... Untoward happening in this city, beyond usual miscreants and criminal squabbling. Whether or not it was true remained to be seen, but he would be the judge of that.\n\nHe was rather curt in his movements as he approached the guard at the embassy, pulling his personal chop from his obi and presenting it. **\"I am Asako Katsuki, here to see Shiba-san. I am answering his request he has sent home.\"** There was no need to share extensive details with a gate guard, and the point would be made nonetheless. Katsuki stood at the threshold he was standing at, waiting for permission to enter. He momentarily glanced around the embassy and the surrounding area, a suspicious glint in his eyes. If there was something wrong here, where was it happening, and why? A place such as this would have eyes and ears everywhere. It would take great skill to continue machinations unseen.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The ashigaru bows low to the samurai. \"Please, Katsuki-sama, wait here, I will announce your arrival to the ambassador.\" He disappears into the embassy, quickly, returning only a few moments later, accompanied by the head servant of the house. \"Right this way, if you please, samurai-sama.\" The older man says, welcoming him in. \n\nHe leads Katsuki into the embassy, the interior showing signs of slowly being updated with customary art, nondescript, but tasteful, as if there had not been much in the way of decoration previously, and a baseline aesthetic was being filled first. The older man raps lightly on a door, and barely pauses before opening. \n\nIemon stands on the far side of a desk, papers orderly and well-maintained. Simple tools for writing to the side of his seat show he had been working when the new samurai's presence was announced. The room is humble, a small shelf with an assortment of scrolls, and an armor stand with a stick of incense in front of it the only non-business items within view.\n\n\"Welcome, Asako-san. I am gratified to hear that my request has continued to make its rounds in our homelands. Will you take tea, or perhaps something stronger, to refresh yourself after your travels?\" He bows in greeting, gesturing for the other man to sit once the initial bows are concluded.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bronzycoder",
"message": "There was little movement from Katsuki's stiff posture at first, though soon after the deep bow, he gave an affirmative nod in the heimin's direction. His searching gaze was interrupted as the head servant came to meet him, and he followed after the older man into the embassy proper. He could see that there was art being put up, but to him it all seemed to be... Colours. He could recognise which were clearly supposed to be referencing points in the history of the clan or important figures, but anything beyond that was little more than swirls and patterns to him. He may have seen the image, but Katsuki had little interest beyond that. He'd never quite gotten the point.\n\nHe had made sure to allow his weapons to be taken aside and stored in their proper place. Perhaps if he was in the embassy of another clan, he may be more suspect, but he had no desire to show distrust towards his own clan, no less the ambassador. This was not Hopeful Rest, and the samurai sent here would be something of a cut above, from what he understood. This city was shaping up more and more, at least in his view, to be somewhere of importance. Something was bound to happen here.\n\n**\"Shiba-san.\"** Katsuki entered with a bow of greeting, his red and orange kimono making his allegiance rather obvious, if the Phoenix mon emblazoned on it did not. **\"Tea would be greatly appreciated. It has been a long walk.\"** He wouldn't drink anything of strength, especially sake, when he was 'on business', so to speak. Nowadays, it felt as though he always was.\n\nKatsuki took the seat that was offered; despite the politeness in the greetings, his face had not shifted once to soften or show pleasure at his arrival. It was as though it was frozen in place, his eyes incredibly focused as he stared forward. **\"I understand you have been hard at work, Shiba-san. It is an arduous duty you have, in a city such as this.\"**\n\nThere was no particular love for the denizens this city swarmed with in his eyes, that was true. Yet, he had no doubt even the most uncouth and irreverent man within these walls would have a distaste at the least for the sorts he hunted. Not that criminals and traitors alike would walk from his notice, but they were secondary. Katsuki, for a brief moment, considered that perhaps he shouldn't think of this. He had only just gotten here after a long trip from Hopeful Rest, and he hadn't given himself a chance for respite. What use were an exhausted man's senses?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods to the servant, who bows and leaves to fetch tea. \"Of course, I would assume so. I hope there was no trouble on your travels.\" He looks the other man over. Though similar in age, Katsuki looked so... Stiff. Some would find his focus unnerving, but Iemon took it in stride, taking the hint that idle pleasantries were not something the other man fancied.\n\nThe tea arrived swiftly, the servants having put the water to boil as soon as it was known there was a guest. The ambassador's habit of hospitality was one they had quickly adopted as a new norm for their own duties. Iemon took the pot and two cups, set them within easy reach on the desk, and poured a cup for Katsuki first, and then himself.\n\n\"Duty is the way of the samurai, Asako-san, and one I take seriously. Were I merely a Yojimbo, my approach would be much the same: plan, prepare, and make use of all available resources to preserve the safety of my charge. Only now, my charge is the interests of our Clan, and so my approach must adapt beyond the individual and look to the whole. The whole, here in Ryoko Owari Toshi is tumultuous to say the least, but the opportunity it presents to allow our Clan greater prominence is a worthy goal. To that end, we look to encourage peaceful resolutions to disputes, and to tend to the spiritual needs of the city.\" \n\nHe sips his tea, letting the brew warm him. \"What talents do you bring, for the good of our Clan, this city, and the Empire as a whole?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bronzycoder",
"message": "**\"Nothing that could not be dealt with.\"**\n\nThe distinction was subtle, but Katsuki wanted to be emphatic that he could handle himself. The training he'd received was meant to prepare him for traveling across Rokugan, and all of it had come in useful on his way to this city. Movement through the lands of multiple clans without much in the way of an escort could be a dangerous affair, after all, but he was instructed to only take the necessities.\n\nWith one hand, he lifted the cup of tea and took a sip, enjoying the warmth it gave his body, though to look at his face, one would never guess such a thing. His mind was focused on this meeting, and what work he would be carrying out in this place. From what he could tell, the ambassador would be a great boon to that. It was good to meet a man who focused on his duty - he nodded as Iemon described the importance of it, and how one must approach it. **\"It is as you say.\"**\n\nHis talents, then? He nodded before reciting them off, as though it was a memorised description of a tool. **\"I am a trained Inquisitor. I have training, experience and accomplishment in matters of investigation and interrogation. I also have experience in matters of court. Some of my training is as a warrior, and I can serve in this capacity if needed. Finally, my disposition makes me adept at ensuring people understand the consequences of their actions.\"**\n\nOne would think his last mentioned skillset was in the vein of an instructor or man of the law, but the implication was there. He would never disrespect Iemon by directly implying he would have to intimidate anyone. He took another sip of the tea. **\"I would be greatly honoured to be of use to you and the clan, Shiba-san.\"**\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon sipped his tea, nodding appreciatively to the listed skills. \"I have no doubt that your services will be invaluable, Asako-san.\" He sips again, considering all that he has heard, and offers another pour to Katsuki. \n\nHe ponders for the right words for another moment as he pours for himself as well. \"I feel that we are very different men, you and I. This is not a bad thing, merely an observation. In truth, much as there are different tools suited to different tasks, so too are men. I am told that I am more personable and approachable then many stereotypes would have our Clan. I am... Well, a softer touch, like a brush stroke. You seem like the steel of a blade.\" The latter sentence, by the tone of his voice, is very much intended as a compliment. \" I would imagine such hardness is a necessary part of your duties as well.\n\n\"In any case, there are numerous tasks that are available in this city. The spiritual has been ignored too long, and like a garden, when left untended, becomes overgrown. It is to us to clean up the area, so that new and healthy growth may emerge.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bronzycoder",
"message": "Katsuki simply listened at first as Iemon seemed to appreciate having his skills present. He was not fully aware of the problems or challenges the Phoenix faced in this city, but he was hoping to be brought up to speed fairly quickly now that he'd arrived. There was no cause to dither. He raised his hand politely to indicate that he wanted no more tea upon the ambassador's offering. Katsuki raised his cup and finished what was left; it was not Golden Needle, but it had done its duty in warming him.\n\nHe did not take offense to Iemon's comment, especially as he clearly meant it appreciatively. His face still did not shift, even as he replied in turn. **\"You are gracious with your words, Shiba-san. Last time, I was compared to rough-hewn granite.\"** While he didn't even give away a smirk, that was probably the closest thing Katsuki got to humour when he had some duty to perform. He had no doubt that the ambassador was far more a diplomat then he was, and he did not resent that. Perhaps it was a skill he would learn in time. Perhaps not.\n\nBesides, he was right. It was difficult to be kindly amongst the Inquisitors. One had to be skeptical, unforgiving and decisive. Katsuki had seen others attempt to be more... Gentle in their duties, but usually that just meant being taken advantage of. Still, there was no use dwelling on that. There were more important matters at hand. **\"It is as you say.\"**\n\n\n**\"Whatever I can do to aid in this cleansing, I will. If there are matters I can attend to now, they shall be handled thoroughly.\"** All this talk of what was going on had got him in the mood to work.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods at the polite rejection of further tea. He sips, and first gives a polite bow at the compliment of his gracious words, but grins immediately upon hearing the 'rough-hewn granite' comment that Katsuki makes about himself, and allows it to stay on his face as he rises from the slight bow. \n\nHe grows serious again when the implied question of available matters to attend to is posed. \"Not too long ago, there had been a death caused by yokai in the Temple Quarter. We have available Shugenja to work to pacify the spirits, but looking further into what had incited them in the first place would be prudent. Prevention is worth more than a cure, at the end of the day, and if this is something perhaps more malign...\" Iemon shakes his head, leaving the rest unspoken. \"The Unicorn have offered to assist with this as well, they have spoken openly with us to their concern for the spiritual health of the city as a whole, and I feel there is much to be gained in working with the other Clans where possible. If in your initial assessment you find a need for more manpower, I feel that may be a strong direction to lead with.\" The discussion with Utaku Kazuko was still fresh in his mind, facing down concerns brought to the Phoenix's attention would show their capabilities.\n\n\"In truth, we are hard pressed to keep up with the demands here. In order to grow our position, our best way forward is through intertwining ourselves with the other Clans. Shared victory for all will help to show that peace and cooperation is not just attainable, but ideal.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bronzycoder",
"message": "Katsuki noted the grin, and was inwardly a little surprised at it. Did he say something that funny? Perhaps the Courtier who said it to him simply had a good point, and most others could see the humour in it. He didn't see himself as easily offended, and even now, he took the comment in stride. There could be something to be said for living as rough-hewn granite. The only time his face had moved since arriving was at the mention of yokai, causing his face to stiffen and tense just slightly. A person not paying attention to his expression could easily miss it, and it was unconscious enough even he did not notice.\n\nHe would at least take what positives he could. The other clans being willing to work with them against evil was something he had expected, but he appreciated it nonetheless. The unicorn were many things, but he would never fault a man for taking a stand against the truly abhorrent things of the world. **\"I understand. I will ensure my assessment is carried out swiftly, then. If it is of use, I can speak to the Unicorn further to ask what information they have, and how we can work together.\"**\n\nGaijin traditions or no, Katsuki always did his best to be practical when it came to these matters. Yokai, cultists, maho-tsukai... Any samurai, no matter how foreign, uncouth, irreverent or even dishonourable they may be, was like the Tao of Shinsei next to them. Iemon was right, if he were to be asked - cooperation was key. He gave a solemn nod to the ambassador's summary. **\"It is as you say.\"**\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon had noticed the grin go unreturned. *Definitely a stoic one here. No matter.* \n\n\"Excellent. Should any other matters of import come to my attention, I will ensure you are consulted. If there is anything that I can do for you, please do not hesitate to ask. The more we can allow you to focus on your duty, the better off we shall all be.\"\n\nIemon changed his tack slightly, letting his natural friendly nature remain, but keeping his speech to more matter-of-fact and pertinent points, rather than the more socially-minded approach that he was used to, hoping to better match Katsuki. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bronzycoder",
"message": "Katsuki did notice Iemon's change in demeanour; he didn't mind either way, though he at least could tell what was happening, and did appreciate the ambassador's effort in relating to him, and the candour with which he did so. He made a mental note to remember much of this conversation, and others they would later have. There was much to be learned of the art of conversation here, he could already tell. Hopeful Rest was not of the same level of importance, so those educated in courtly matters were a little... Lacking, back home.\n\n**\"Thank you, Shiba-san. Your generosity is appreciated.\"** He bowed his head slightly in thanks before his face came back up, his eyes once again locking intensely onto Iemon's. It was obvious that his steely gaze was more used to putting pressure on those he looked at, of trying to trap them in corners as they attempted to wriggle out of whatever conversation they had found themselves wrapped up in. He could even tell that it had been a while since he'd had a formal conversation with those he was more friendly with, and that he would have to get back into proper form.\n\nKatsuki let a pause hang in the air for a moment more, expectantly, as though to let the other man know where he was taking this. **\"If you do not require anything of me at this time, I will go to collect myself, and then begin carrying out my duties. From the sounds of things, it is imperative that I carry out this assessment and begin further investigation into the provocation of the yokai in good time.\"**\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Very well. It is indeed imperative, and your drive to get to work is both impressive and appreciated.\" Iemon stands and bows, their meeting concluded. \"It has been a pleasure to meet you, Asako Katsuki-san, and I look forward to working with you.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 335 | 3,901 |
353.380952 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The Phoenix embassy was no place that Atsuko had intended to step foot in again.\n\nThe little ronin had never had much contact with Rokugan's so-called spiritual ambassadors before setting foot in Ryoko Owari Toshi. Perhaps that was for the best. As far as she was aware, they sought ronin out just as much as the other, more orthodox clans did. Which was to say for little more than convenient scapegoats for misfortune and banditry. Even walking to their gates with purpose, she did not expect a particularly warm welcome. It hadn't been too long ago that her first visit ended with her slashing open the arm of their ambassador over a matter of pride, after all.\n\nBut there seemed to be a carefully measured effort to mend fences going on within both the Unicorn and the Phoenix. Enough that they had managed to secure her the necessary patronage to continue her Fortune forsaken investigation into the yōkai menace that seemed to entrench itself more and more with every passing day. Even if they failed in offering her hospitality, that much she could be grateful for. \n\nThe lightly guarded gate was a different enough sight from that of the Ide residence, but the number of ashigaru at the entrance mattered little enough to her. She only needed one to fetch the head librarian who oversaw the Phoenix's archives in the city. \n\n\"Atsuko, retainer to Ide Kenza-sama. I come on behalf of the Unicorn ambassador. Your superiors should be expecting me.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "The ashigaru at the gate met the ronin with a guarded look until she introduced her purpose, then their manner quickly turned back business-like. One nodded and left to disappear into the first of the two smaller buildings within the embassy grounds, the other waiting at the gate with Atsuko.\n\nEver since Kita had been notified of the agreement that had been reached between the Phoenix and the Unicorn, she had been filled with a nervous energy waiting for the arrival of the promised book. She had made the necessary preparations for its safekeeping and had been filling the time since with busywork. She had anticipated working with other clans while here in the city-but being placed in a position to hold a book likely never before seen by her own clansmen, while curating access to their own collection for an 'eyes only' investigation-she was honored. She reminded herself not to become prideful herself; surely it was just pride in the steps her clan was taking to help recover their proper place within the city. \n\nThen the time had come. The guard knocked on the library door, notifying her of the guest waiting at the gate, \"Asako-sama, Atsuko, retainer of Ide Kenza-sama, on behalf of the Unicorn Ambassaor is here to see you.\"\n\nKita looked up, eyes widening at the announcement. She tidied her wayward ponytail and smoothed the light orange kimono bearing the Phoenix mon, only just remembering to rub any damp ink off her hands into a rag first. \n\n*Atsuko. Of course it would happen sometime to meet her. She seems to be leaned on quite heavily by the Unicorn if she has been put in charge of this as well.* Kita thought as trailed after the guard back to the gate.\n\nShe gave a stiff bow to the small ronin waiting there, \"Good day Atsuko-san. I am Asako Kita, curator of the Phoenix Embassy Library. I hope the day is treating you well. How can I help you?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "The wait did not seem that it would take all that long, something Atsuko took as a blessing. Being made to stand at the precipe of the embassy grounds was almost as nerve-wracking as actually entering the building. From further within the compound, a woman some years her senior appeared with the ashigaru in tow, dressed in the trademark colors of the Phoenix. It was hard to get a read on the courtier, given the distance, though swift it did close. Nervous, perhaps? Or maybe it was simply excitement—she *Was* There to make a delivery, after all.\n\n\"It is good to make your acquaintance, Asako-sama.\"\n\n Atsuko offered a bow of equal depth to that of her samurai counterpart, albeit performed more swiftly and without the same rigidity. As she rose from her bow, she reached for the object tucked up beneath her arm. The tome itself was heavier than most of the literature she had been made to engage with since joining with the Unicorn, though to hear it told, it held centuries' worth of stories from lands afar. Stood to reason such a thing wouldn't classify as 'light reading'. The wave-woman held it aloft such that the Asako could investigate it.\n\n\"I believe we are to make an exchange, are we not? You will receive this copy of the, erm, Golden Histories? And I will be given access to your libraries. Is now a good time to make that exchange?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "If Atsuko's discomfort in waiting was apparent, Kita didn't let on. Her eyes glued to the delivery as soon as it was presented. It wouldn't do to stand here drooling over it. She gave a quick shake of her head to focus her thoughts and turned her glance back to the small wave woman. \n\n\"Yes, yes of course. Please, come in. I'll show you to the library.\"\n\nShe reached with both hands to take the book before Atsuko could move, seemingly not thrown off by the weight of it as she took it in her grasp. She tore her gaze away from studying the cover again as they made their way across the courtyard. \n\n\"Shall I call for some tea? I can provide any detail you may need for the Golden Histories planned safekeeping, so that you can report to whoever you need.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Though she did her level best to hide them, there were times when the difference in upbringing between Atsuko and her samurai peers became apparent. It went without saying that the foray into the Phoenix embassy was once such time. The way the Asako seemed to snatch up and cradle the book made it seem like the layers of glued parchment were some coveted treasure. Perhaps they were, to a more learned sort of folk. But the ronin had spent a long while among the avenues of the Merchant's Quarter and the bazaar beyond, enough to know what *True* Value looked like, and she was about as sure as anything that the manuscript she passed off wasn't worth its weight in gold.\n\n\"I appreciate the offer, but tea will not be necessary,\" She waved a hand to dismiss the notion, though she doubted her host would notice the gesture, \"And I have every confidence in your ability to keep the book safe.\"\n\nPerhaps a tad irreverent, but the Golden Histories—for as long as the Unicorn continued to deny her heritage—were not her own. If the librarian was already so very enthralled with the volume before so much as parting its pages, she was sure nothing undue would happen to it before it was time to collect it once more. \n\n\"I would like to discuss my access to the library, however. I understand there will be a level of... Supervision involved in the process. I do not particularly mind if you overlook the information I inquire into. But given the importance of the matter, I would ask you to not hinder me in learning what I must. I've had my fill of that sort of thing.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "They had made their way inside of the library, where the stone walls had kept the growing warmth of the day at bay. Kita placed the large book on a reading stand for now, set aside for just such a use. Her hand lingered on the spine a moment before she turned her full attention to her guest. \n\n\"Yes of course, the access to the library. They'll need to...\"\n\nJust now, she fully registered what Atsuko had been saying. Kita looked the wave-woman up and down, eyebrows raised and lips pursed as an incredulous look crossed her face.\n\n\"You? You-personally-are the investigator that will be in m-our library?\"\n\nThe look was gone as quick as it had come. Kita turned to the shelf beside her, pushing and pulling various covers to line them up.\n\n\"As far as access to the library, I understand I am to assist however the investigator, you, need with the materials required. Of course, I'm still fairly new to this location as well. But I have tried to familiarize myself with the collection. So I'll do the best I can to help you find what you need. I have no intention to pry or hinder, but it may be useful to know the general subject you are looking for details on?\"\n\nShe turned back to face Atsuko now. Her expression was one of calm helpfulness as she waited to see what the ronin would say.\n\n ||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Atsuko made little effort to hide the way the eyebrow over her good eye raised when the Asako made her surprise known. It was not an unexpected reaction, given the context underpinning their interaction, that she would have her misgivings about allowing an unanchored wanderer access to the tomes that she so clearly cherished. What was less expected was the fact her superiors had not informed her of the situation in advance. The meeting that had established their collaboration was attended by another Asako, the ambassador's second, and the implication had seemed quite clear then. Perhaps Utaku Kazuko had allowed it to linger rather than state it outright. \n\nWere she a woman capable of amusement, that might have been purposeful. \n\nBut it didn't matter all that much. What mattered was that the Asako before her was not half so interested in running interference as the Phoenix Karo had been. The offending brow lowered itself as Atsuko considered just what literature would help her in her quest. There were a dozen variables that she had been unable to isolate due to her ignorance of the subjects.\n\n\"Mm... A good start would be anything you have on various types of Yōkai and signs of their presence. Anything on long-term, widespread hauntings too. I'll also need a few volumes on disease, especially if you have anything on *Supernatural* Diseases and their symptoms.\"\n\nShe felt silly, asking for things that seemed to belong more in bedtime stories and kabuki plays than in conversation between proper samurai, had she been speaking with anybody else. But the Phoenix were alleged to be the foremost experts on anything remotely otherworldly in the Empire. If anybody could understand the importance of recording such matters meticulously, it would be them.\n\n\"Oh! And I'll also need to look into the history of the Empire pre-dating the Unicorn's return. Specifically, anything involving the minting of coinage before... Well, whatever year they came back.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Well, at least her guest was willing to give her something to work with. Kita hadn't been sure, given the explanation of the request to access the library, how much she would be willing to share. If this was going to be the arrangement, she would attempt to be helpful. Or give the best appearance of such. \n\nThe variety of topics Atsuko presented were odd, and she seemed almost embarrassed to bring up some of them. And in truth, the mention of yōkai and haunting made her think of the stories on the shelves at the back of Silkworms Whispers. But then again, stories generally originated from some place... \n\n\"Let me see- wait here.\" \n\nShe turned and started hunting through the shelves, pulling out one fat book, then another. These she brought to a low table near the door. Then she went back for more. Soon there were several piles of books. Some larger than others, on a variety of topics, waiting for Atsuko.\n\n\"I hope you weren't in a hurry. I believe there's more here on the topics you mentioned, but these are the ones I know off hand.\" \n\n*And that can be shared outside of the clan* She added silently.\n\n|| a few books in the stack- feel free to add as needed\n*Guide to Celestial Realms* Bound in embossed dark blue silk, this large book discusses spiritual encounters and basic spiritual principles \n*Of Creatures* A slim volume containing one samurai's journal of the creatures encountered in their travels \n*Gakiken* Another smaller, black-bound book covering everything from forest-spirits of the kitsune, to gaki, to malicious spirit-beasts and yōkai\n*Acupuncture & You-correcting imbalances of the body*\n*A Medical Guide* The 'fat' book, almost more of a textbook of sorts, lists various mundane ailments and treatments, but also includes a few references to spiritual maladies ||\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Whatever misgivings the Asako might or might not have had in assisting her, at least she made the effort to appear dutiful. One book became two books became three and four and so on, and as the covers piled up on the low table before her, Atsuko found herself dreading the workload that came with them. She had never been very much for reading. Of course, few in her position were. Life on the road did not leave one with much time for academic study, and few of those who needed to withstand the indignities of life as a wanderer had the temperament or inclination to partake even if they could. \n\nYet, all the same, duty was duty. Somewhere in the ponderous piles of tomes, there were answers. There *Had* To be answers. \n\n\"I cannot say I am *Not* In a hurry, Asako-sama, given the importance of the matter at hand. In that same spirit, I also cannot say I intend to leave empty-handed.\"\n\nThe little warrior rolled her neck to and fro as she prepared to settle in front of the table. It stood to reason that she could skim a few of them: only a mad woman would painstakingly commit every word of an encyclopedia to memory when combing for a specific piece of information. Her slim fingers plucked a volume out of the pile that seemed promising and began to leaf through it with an inquisitive eye.\n\nOf course, as she scanned each piece of parchment for anything particularly relevant, she found herself acutely aware of the unattended Phoenix's presence. A fortunate thing she was particularly good at multitasking. \n\n\"I do not suppose you know much of these subjects, Asako-sama? As much as I appreciate the literature, guidance would be more helpful in the immediate.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita kept a watchful eye as Atsuko delved into the stacks of literature provided. She continued to mentally review what additional materials may be helpful for the requested topics as she hovered nearby. Her train of thought was broken by an inquiry from her guest.\n\n\"Huh? You need, oh...\"\n\nHer brain caught up with her ears. As much as she was reluctant about *Who* It was asking, she couldn't resist the genuine request for help. She gave a quiet sigh, her shoulders dropping as she relaxed a little, and moved beside Atsuko. She slid out one of the books towards the bottom of a pile. Opening it up and leafing to a page in the back half of it, she pointed to a passage.\n\n\"See here, it talks of creatures, beings, that hide on the fringes of society. That they feed on people, whether physically or spiritually is debated. I'm sure there would be some kind of signs.\"\n\nShe sat the book down between them and picked up another to look through it without glancing up,\n\n\"I'll admit, on the subject of hauntings, my personal reading of late has been on the subject. But the stories are supposed to be fiction. I'm not sure how much use that would be.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "It was difficult not to notice the shift in body language that followed her small request. Perhaps it was a tad mercenary to exploit someone's willingness to help, but with her circumstances, she needed every advantage she could turn up. Most samurai would not bother themselves to offer their aid to a lowly ronin, but plenty of samurai were willing to show off their expertise on a particular subject. Given the relative lack of information she had on the subject at hand, playing the part of a clueless drifter wasn't all that hard.\n\nThe harder part was figuring out just how much to reveal on her own end. She had gathered no small number of clues during her time investigating the so-called yōkai menace. Much of it was not the sort of thing one spoke about in polite company, the sorts of things that wouldn't migrate their way into fictitious tales about ghosts and ill omens. In the fact of the genuine peril facing the city's inhabitants, though, perhaps propriety could be breached to an extent. It wasn't as if all that much was expected from her in terms of manners, anyway.\n\n\"I can confirm that they aren't fiction, Asako-sama. At least, not the ones in this city. I fought one shortly after I arrived in the city. It looked like a man, at first, but revealed itself to be some huge, horrible... Centipede, thing.\"\n\nShe fought the urge to shudder. Not from the description, of course, but even mentioning the horror brought to mind the sound of its hideous joints cracking as it twisted in ways no human being was supposed to be able to.\n\n\"I haven't run into another like it, but the journal we found in its lair... I think it was once a commoner. Then he got sick with something, and not even jade seemed to be able to burn away whatever it was: it all just turned black and rotten.\" \n\nHer fingers almost dismissively flicked through the page of the book before her as she continued.\n\n\"Whatever it was, it consumed him until he was too jibbering to continue writing, and eventually turned into a monster. You'll have to forgive my hurry in that regard, as I've only recently learned that *More* Peasants seem to be falling ill with a similar malady, and I'm no closer to figuring out what it is to even begin fighting it.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita had been studying the volume in her hand as Atsuko debated the requirements of propriety in this situation. As she described the creatures, the monster that presumably used to be a man Kita initially was still focused on her study there. Even as Atsuko refrained from a physical reaction to the story, the frankness of her tale brought Kita's attention back from the pages before her. Her eyes grew wider as she described the jade rotting away at its touch.\n\n\"Ah yes. An entirely understandable hurry...\"\nKita seemed dumb struck for a minute, processing. Then she had questions.\n\n\"There's more of these things turning? How long ago was this? Do you know how long it takes for this transformation to take place once one has contracted it? And you think it's some sort of illness that causes it?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "It seemed her little tale had managed to at least capture the attention of the Asako. Whether it was out of interest, worry, or both, it mattered little enough. As long as she got the samurai invested in the situation, she could try and extract more help out of the Phoenix than the other great clans had proven themselves willing to provide.\n\n\"I believe so. The *Start* The situation was sometime last winter, and the trail went cold between then and around the middle of spring.\"\n\n There was more to say on the matter, but the scholar seemed full of questions, and who was she to refuse them? \n\n\"I cannot say for sure. My only evidence is a half-illegible journal, and the Scorpion confiscated all the evidence after the inciting incident. I only still have records of it because the late Ide Nakato had the presence of mind to record testimony the evening it happened.\"\n\nThe little ronin allowed herself a small frown, though whether it was for the memory of the late ambassador, or out of dissatisfaction for how the matter had been handled, she did not easily let on.\n\n\"The reason I am here is to seek the answers to these very questions. I have asked aid of both the Crab and Scorpion clans, and received little to nothing in return. It is my hope that the Phoenix will succeed where they have failed,\" She let a small moment pass to let the point linger before she continued, \"Do you think that is feasible, Asako-sama?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"Last winter you say? Were there other things happening at that time you believe may be related?\"\n\nKita frowned in turn, unhappy to hear both that there were such dangers roaming the city, and that the investigation had gone cold.\nBut as the ronin continued to speak, she felt some of her worry turn to irritation. The manipulation this time was more blatant, and she didn't appreciate it. She kept her expression and tone neutral though as she replied, her eyes narrowing only slightly.\n\n\"It is unfortunate that previous attempts to uncover the needed answers have been unsuccessful. I am here to help as I can. I believe that with your knowledge of the situation and my aid to investigate of the resources available here in the embassy library, that we can surely come up with some answers that have eluded you so far.\""
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "*A Guide to the Celestial Realms*\n```Nothing of particular note was found here, beyond the basics that most all who had encountered beings beyond this realm understood. They are difficult to harm by traditional means, often requiring concerted effort, shugenja, dozens of powerful omamori, or jade. Scribbled on the page is a brief reference to the fact that obsidian can be used as a last resort in place of jade to harm spirits.\n\nThe volume also speaks of a Realm's \"Jealousy\" Or its defining characteristic. If a being from one Realm spends too much time in another, they will begin to be affected by that realm. For most it manifests solely as shifts in mentality, but in extreme cases physical alteration has been known to occur.\n\nThere is no mention of natives to a realm that match the creature. All references to beings which were once human are limited to those poor souls who passed and were judged by Emma-O.```\n\n*Of Creatures*\n```It is difficult to discern where fact ends and pillowbook begins with this one. It is written from the perspective of a Lion Clan Magistrate in the sixth century, Matsu Shino, and mostly speaks of her time as a prisoner of \"Copper goblins.\" Curiously, she speaks of these creatures as intelligent, relatively peaceful, and capable of a magic rivaling most shugenja.\n\nVarious monsters are described during her time with the copper goblins, most of which carry arachnid or other insectoid characteristics and could be inferred to have been encountered underground. Eventually, after gaining the trust of the group by saving them on numerous occasions, she is released from bondage. In an act of great selflessness and honor, she slays every last copper goblin upon having her weapons returned to her. Though they seemed harmless, they were not Rokugani, and thus a threat to the Empire.\n\nIn the latter chapters she is haunted by a talking lion who calls himself Adisabah, which she comes to believe is punishment for her cruelty. He convinces her to return to the site of the massacre, bury all her worldly possessions, and retire to a monastery. When she worries that someone may desecrate the burial place in search of her material things, Adisabah assures her the darkness of the deed performed will act as a safeguard.```\n\n*Gakiken*\n```The book attempts to explain that while the creatures within are real, they also embody an idea. Thus, many times the simplest way to defeat them is not to fight them, but to force them into a situation where their guiding principles will force a defeat. Bowing to a kappa, taking a kitsune's hoshi no tama, and others are mentioned.\n\nThen again, some creatures are said to be impossible to reason with. The feared onikuma, for example, is unknown just how intelligent it is as none survive encounters with it. After describing common methods of defeating such gargantuan creatures (usually involved hundreds of spears, fire, and jade) it posits that even the most dangerous of yokai could be beaten with the right knowledge without lifting a finger in violence of understood.```\n\n*Acupuncture and You—Correcting Imbalances of the Body, a Medical Guide*\n```The descriptions of physical ailments and their treatments may as well have been written in High Rokugani, but some of the tips for aiding repetitive nerve damage did explain some of the things a young duelist may have seen their elders do after a particularly arduous confrontation.\n\nGiven that this edition was written at the tail end of the 8th century—not long after Iuchiban's second assault—a small section on identifying the difference between a curse and necromancy was added. It expounds on the differences, explains the dangers of burying bodies, and so on. It also describes the challenges inherent in identifying the source of a curse. Much like a shugenja's wards, most curses are affixed to an object and designed as one-time activations, after which the object becomes mundane. Some protective prayers and poultices are written to defend against both zombification and curses, though it is not certain how effective these really are.```"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "\"I see. That is reassuring, Asako-sama.\"\n\nThe ronin's lips curled every so slightly upward, yet the aforementioned reassurance did not quite seem to reach her eye. Perhaps she had overstepped in appealing to the librarian's sense of pride and worry. It could have been that those who tended the Phoenix's books were harder to placate than an errant Thunder Guard or palace official, but all the same, it was not the bookkeeper Atsuko had sought at the embassy. It was the knowledge held within the books themselves. And when it became clear her line of questioning had begun to exhaust the Asako's patience, she was quick to redirect her attention back to those very books.\n\nPage by page, she scoured through the books. Some were quite dry—theology and medicine were never things she was *Passionate* About—but others were a tad more interesting. The tale of Matsu Shino might have even been something she would read in her own time, were she the type to read for leisure, despite its predictably sad ending. The quality of the story was secondary to the information within, however, and there was a breadth of information to sort through.\n\nConnecting things had always been something she excelled at. Whether it was the careful combination of kata and how they flowed, to the way rumors and tales moved the value of goods at the markets, piecing together disparate parts into a cohesive whole was something she found herself drawn towards. The story unfolding in her mind's eye was a fanciful one, the sort that might well make for a good pillowbook in its own right. But she had seen firsthand evidence that such things were not beyond the realm of possibility, and unlike a humble, tall tale, had very real consequences for those involved. \n\nThe little ronin was quick to read back into previous texts as she found new information, producing from the fold of her sleeve a small, neatly bound notebook and a length of graphite with which to write. Every so often, she would scratch something into the page, her handwork quick and messy, but legible enough for the only eye that mattered to read. The words themselves seemed a jumble, copper goblins, insects, fortune, a smattering of years here and there, and even a query into obsidian. \n\nThen she stopped.\n\n\"Asako-sama, forgive me if this is naïve to ask; I am no scholar nor mystic... But if creatures from other realms can find their way into our own, is the reverse true? Is it possible that there are places where a person might... Slip through into another world?\"\n\nIt felt silly to ask, but she had grown up in Unicorn lands. Every little boy and girl in Turo-Kojiri knew of the Shinomen Mori. That dark place where the realm of man seemed to blend with wilder, darker things, where goblins, trolls, and worse lived, was where misbehaving children were sent to live. They had been silly little stories, enough to scare the young into listening to their elders, and perhaps to act as a warning not to wander too far into the wilds... But perhaps there was a kernel of truth in some of them after all.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Focus turned back to the work at hand. Kita had taken a place at the low table not far from Atsuko. Time stretched as they dug through the stacks of books. In between her own reading, she was able to watch the ronin's research. Atsuko didn't seem the scholarly type, but the efficiency with which she sorted through the various books, cross referencing subjects, and making notes earned some begrudging respect. \n\nKita flipped through the different volumes as they traded back and forth, occasionally pointing out a paragraph of interest. She was still looking through the guide of celestial realms when the little ronin became particularly affixed on the Matsu's journal.\n\n\"Did you find something of interest? Answers?\"\n\nAtsuko had stopped with a question. \n\n\"Not naive, no. But I think this may speak to what you're asking. See here-\"\n\nKita pointed to a passage towards the end of the book in her hand, turning so the she could see, reading aloud,\n\n\"It says transition between realms is possible. \nWhile rare outside of death, it is said that there may be ways to move from one realm to another by other means. \nWhile outside of one's own realm, physical or mental changes can occur in the traveler.\"\n\nReading bits of the page, she scanned the text further, trying to join more pieces to the puzzle. \n\n\"I don't see why it wouldn't be like most any other passageway, if something can go in, surely something else can go out.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "Though she did not look directly at the Asako with her remaining good eye, Atsuko did listen intently to the librarian's words. She listened and considered, as she allowed herself to scan the characters thought to be brushed by Matsu Shino. Taken by themselves, the knowledge before her seemed an eclectic and unhelpful mix. But combined with the context of what she knew, the clues she had gathered, each little piece of information came together to form a more cohesive whole. Some of it was quite old, and perhaps even fictitious to begin with. But it was enough to formulate and theory, and a theory was good enough to investigate further. \n\n\"I see,\" The little ronin raised her head enough to look Kita head on, her brow furrowed with determination, \"I fear I will need more books, Asako-sama. Forgive me for what sounds like a foolish request, but I need to know more about 'copper goblins', and where they can be found. And... Insect spirits too. I believe there is a connection to be had.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "\"More books we have.\"\nA slight smile crept onto Kita's face; now it felt like there was progress to be made instead of blindly turning pages. She nodded, thoughtful, and scurried off to the back of the library. A minute later she returned carrying a long, narrow, wooden box filled with printed cards of heavy paper. \nThese she started thumbing through purposefully, occasionally pulling one loose to review the details. She muttered almost more to herself,\n\n\"Let's see here what other titles might help us. Now that we have a direction. Insect spirits, 'Copper Goblins', copper?, dwelling underground...\"\nShe looked up at the ronin, \n\"You said you encountered one of these monsters in its lair, Atsuko-san. Was it underground as well?\"\n\nContinuing to hunt through the cards while waiting for an answer she had turned several sideways to mark their places, glancing up occasionally to where they would be housed on the shelves. After a moment's debate she pointed,\n\n\"Just over there, the second shelf. There should be a few books on mining. Could you grab those? It looks like there are a few more on spirit creatures and the like here...\" She moved around the table the other way, headed for another row of shelves.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "asurasura",
"message": "While Kita went about the task of searching for books, Atsuko simply shook her head.\n\n\"I did fight *Something*, but I don't think it was a copper goblin. And the lair wasn't underground, but off in the Leatherworker Quarter's.\"\n\nIt had been months and she could still see its terrible visage in her mind's eye. While the creature she had battled against certainly had a higher mind than that of a simple beast, it did not strike her as the sort to form complex societies like that one described in Matsu Shino's memoir. No, it was far more likely that whatever she had done battle against was not some foul creature to begin with. She was more confident than ever in her assumption it was once a man—all that had changed was the vector by which he had become something more horrible than just a man.\n\n\"Over here? Ah, of course.\"\n\nRuminating over things did little to further their cause, and so the little ronin hurried over to the shelf in question, reaching down to pick through the volumes. Luckily for her, the Phoenix had not asked for a volume on a much higher shelf. The last thing she needed was to be scolded for clamoring up shelving like an enterprising monkey to make up for her lack of height. With the books cradled in her arms, she headed back to their increasingly cluttered table while Kita seemed to head off in another direction entirely.\n\n\"I don't mean to inquire into the taboo, but do you happen to have anything in regards to identifying curses? I figure if anybody would know the methods of finding and dispelling such things, it'd be the Phoenix, and something from *Acupuncture and You* Has me concerned.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "evoliveoyl",
"message": "Kita continued searching the shelves, referencing back here and there to the cards she had set aside. She didn't fully turn her attention from the ronin nearby, turning back over her shoulder here and there as they spoke. \n\n\"The Leatherworker's Quarters, hmm? I've heard things about that area. Yokai infestation was not one of those.\"\n\nShe pulled loose a few books, moving aside some of that had not proven useful to make room. Going back for another, she flipped through a few pages before adding it also to the newly grown stack. She nodded in approval as Atsuko retrieved the volume she had pointed out, and waved a hand at the one she had just laid down.\n\n\"You had mentioned something about early coins also? This one speaks of early minting, the Crane I believe originated the idea.\"\n\n|| adding to the pile \n*The Spirit and the Supernatural* A volume describing creatures of an unnatural origin\n*Phantoms* A ghost story, maybe fiction?\n*Mineral Exploration and Mining* Discussing both types of important substances that can be found underground, and some mining techniques and safety\n*From Rice to Koku* A dry explanation of the transition from barter to coin through the empire|| \n\nReferencing again a card in her box marked with a black line across the top, Kita stepped away to the back of the library to a shelf just out of sight. She came back with a smaller book, unmarked, that she did not add to the stack. Instead she sat across the table and opened herself.\n\"Let me see if I can find anything useful here.\"\n\n|| looking into a book on curses before sharing (Investigation 4:Study)"
}
] | 313 | 7,421 |
201.928571 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Asako Yamanosuke took a moment to compose himself. Fresh from the road and his journey from Kyuukai province back in the lands of his clan, he sought a moment- a place to collect himself, his thoughts, and perhaps a bath.\n\nFrom the steps of the Embassy, he looked to the sky for a moment, steadied his breathing as his mastesr had taught him, and found his way back to the road. Shiba Iemon had assigned him as the new Captain of the Guard - Yamanosuke should attend to those duties as quickly as possible, especially since a Heimin remains in command at present.\n\nHe walked through the gardens nearest the embassy to find what he believed to be the barracks. He once again removed his helm and steadied it at his hip. He walked to the barracks main gate, and presented himself for all to see. \n\n\"I am Asako Yamanosuke.\" He announced himself. \"I have been assigned as captain of the guard by his lordhip, Shiba Iemon. I am seeking the one known as Shin.\" \n\nAnd there at the gate, Yamanosuke waited."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The young ashigaru that had responded to his approach bowed deeply, face visibly nervous at the war-dressed samurai that had approached. \"Right away, samurai-sama, I will bring him here.\" He kept his eyes firmly averted to the ground and backed quickly into the barracks, not even rising from his bow. \n\nA few moments pass, and a middle-aged ashigaru with the stout build of a former farmer emerged, still in his lighter armor from his last shift of guard duty. Though visibly tired, he bowed low and straightened when appropriate, keeping his eyes respectfully downcast but still attentive to any sudden movements.\n\n\"Asako-sama, welcome. I am acting captain Shingou, but merely 'Shin' is good enough for me. I have had the honor to serve here for the past five years.\" \n\nIt wasn't so much a correction of his name, but an acknowledgment of shortening it being customary, an offer of some slight familiarity.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke took stock of the former farmer. Stout, hardy, and respectful. He nodded in acknowledgement of his address.\n\n\"Shingou-san.\" Yamanosuke eased his shoulders a bit. \"Thank you for your service. I bid you to give me an update and tour of the facilities and faculties of the guard here. Shiba Iemon has promoted me as Eihei Taicho (Captain of the Guard). I wish to know what you know.\"\n\nYamanosuke paused. He began to wonder if he had too high expectations of the Ashigaru. Wondered what he had gotten himself into. He began to hope that he wasn't in over his head too far and that he had potentially set himself up to fail. \n\nHe tried to hide the sense of overwhelming responsibility he just felt from showing behind his eyes. He cleared his throat a bit, \"Perhaps over tea? Or a sake, Shingou-san?\" He had hoped to put the Ashigaru at ease and build some goodwill. He's used to being the 'bad-guy' as tax collector back in Kyuukai province, but that was behind him now."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Ah, Asako-sama, I am afraid the tea we have is not suitable for one such as yourself. If you would permit, I can request a tea set and some higher quality tea from the embassy kitchens for your use.\" The man responds, humbly. \n\n\"If you permit, I shall show you around myself and tell you what you wish to know. If the Ambassador has trusted you with this position, then I am confident we are in good hands. He has cultivated quite a positive reputation both amongst the servants as well as with our humble garrison.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Shin-san,\" Yamanosuke replied. \"That would be most acceptable. We can start with the tour of the garrison. I trust you've been keeping good reports for the Ambassador. I should like to examine those as well.\"\n\n\"If there are quarters available, I should also like to settle in. I would also like to meet your officers. It is important we get to know one another.\" Yamanosuke nodded to Shin in an attempt to become slightly more familiar with him, as to develop the beginnings of a trusting relationship. Yamanosuke, after all knows no one here, besides his brief meeting with the Ambassador. He has to start somewhere in building his reputation amongst the men. If he is to be trusted, he should exemplify all tenants of Bushido."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Shin called out for one of the other guards to hasten up to the main embassy building for tea. \"Yes, Asako-sama, within the barracks is a single separate room for a bushi officer. It has been maintained with the assumption that one would be assigned to us again. The rest of us sleep in the main barracks hall. There are, however, no other officers. We are a small force of merely 20 ashigaru, so the chain of command is not particularly long.\"\n\nHe bows and offers entry to lead Yamanosuke into the barracks officer quarters, past several mats in a range of disarray, with four ashigaru actively asleep, presumably the night watch shift.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke takes stock of the report and the situation. The guard is not so overly large, and there are no other samurai. He has only Shin-san as his lieutenant. \n\"Thank you, Shin-san.\" Yamanosuke nods in approval. \"Your update is appreciated. I will see the men once they've had their rest. I would like to address them. Please make the arrangements.\" \n\nYamanosuke headed to the office to settle in and begin to analyze what he has gotten himself into. The meeting with the Lion samurai as Lord Shiba had mentioned just a short while ago seems to be a favorable place to start. He beings to fabricate a mental check-list of what he believes he would like to see for the guard, and at the same time, what he hopes to attain from this meeting with the Lion scholar.\n\nTurning in side the office to face the barracks, Yamanosuke nods to Shin-san, and slides the door closed. He lets out a sigh, and looks for the stand to display and stow his armor. \"I need a bath...\" He begins out loud, then remembers where he is. Preparing himself for the rest of the day, he starts to unpack from his travels."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Shin bows as Yamanosuke closes the door, and sets off to ensure the tea requested is still on its way. \n\nThe quarters allotted to the samurai commander of the garrison are comfortable, though presently unadorned. Simple futon on the far side, a small table, perhaps large enough for two to sit across from each other. An armor stand sits collecting dust, with a modest set of wooden chests for storage next to it.\n\nThough bare, there is... Intentionality to the bareness. The attention to the need of negative space is present, but there is certainly room to make the space more to its occupant's preferences without crowding it.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke moved to the armor stand, gazing around the room. He felt the weight of it - the station, the duty, the responsibility of it all- \"Eihei Taicho...\" He whispered to himself, drawing a finger across the helmet rest.\n\nHe placed his helmet on the stand. He took his gear from his travels and let it rest near the futon. While simple, intentional, the room did its best to be welcoming to the station. Yamanosuke grew to appreciate the stillness of the space -no distractions.\n\nIt reminded him of his tax-collector's office back home. No elaborate decoration, no distraction, only duty. A simple table and ledgers to update continually. It was an honorable role to play, but nothing a gravity-laden as other men's lives. He was willing and ready to serve his Clan in whatever capacity desired, but in this moment, he almost felt his ambition take hold.\n\nA sharp intake breath to steady himself, Yamanosuke took to the chests in the room to take stock of what was left to him and what room he would have to his own. He began to unpack his traveling gear, and to loosen his armor. He would need this room tended to, just to remove any settling dust, and once he has had a bath and tea, he would begin his duty here.\n\nA firm test of the futon, Yamanosuke untied his traveling shoes and finished removing his armor. He produced a simple kimono of orange woven fabric with yellow and white stiching. He didn't often wear such formal dress, but now as a 'Taicho' it was the best he had with him, and he felt it appropriate.\n\nOnce he was completely out of his armor and traveling clothes, he waited as patiently as he could for Shin's return. He searched for a crap of paper that he could possible use to practice his Origami. Having found none, he made it a mental note to be sure that Shin could bring some when he returned.\n\n'Perhaps I should see to the grounds?' Yamanosuke thought to himself. Surely there was an archery dojo near. It always helped to clear his head while practicing kyujitsu..."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Shin returned, carrying the tray with a teapot and single cup for his new commander. Carefully placing it on the small table, he proceeded to pour a cup and then offered a quick bow. \"They were kind enough to give me a proper set to bring down for you, Asako-sama.\"\n\nHe stood at attention for a moment, allowing for Yamanosuke to take a seat if he so chose. \"The reports have been simple enough, all things considered. We are a small security force intended to keep the peace for our Clan's embassy, both as supplement to the city's forces as well as to show that we are capable of defending our own granted holdings. Apart from the incident with the Unicorn, our garrison's duties have been remarkably uneventful.\" Shingou swallows, remembering. \"Though that was enough of an event to wake us from our complacency.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "\"Thank you, Shin-san.\" Yamanosuke sat, not just for his own comfort, but to help Shin feel more at ease. He wanted to build some repore with his subordinate 'commander' and putting him physically at ease seemed like a good idea to him.\n\n\"I am awaiting a correspondence from the Lion Clan. Please see alert me when that message or messenger arrives.\" Yamanosuke took a sip of his tea, first acknowledging the effort of Shin to acquire the set and the tea-leaves. It was of good quality; appropriate for the station.\n\n\"Tell me of the Unicorn incident. I feel I must be updated to such things, so please be aware that no shame should come to you while recounting the events of the past.\n\n\"I will go over these other reports and bring you my findings once I've had the opportunity to digest my findings.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"I will ensure that those on gate duty are well aware that any such message should be directed to your hands immediately.\" Shin snapped into a bow, reacting in a well-disciplined fashion to the order. \n\n\"The Unicorn incident was... Brought about by the imprudent actions of a Shugenja that had arrived and sought to catch a thief with other esteemed samurai. He called on the spirits to summon the fury of the Heavens on a *Child.*\" Shin's anger at the incident was evident, though he remembered himself and bowed again, sheepishly. \"Apologies, Asako-sama. Though she was a thief, of course, the danger of such an action within the city was doubly... Unfortunate.\"\n\nHe cleared his throat and continued. \"In any case, the lightning also sent a Unicorn samurai who had been in pursuit of the thief flying, though mercifully uninjured. He found healing for the girl, and wasted no time gathering a retinue of Unicorn samurai to come and demand justice at our gates.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "vander2th",
"message": "Yamanosuke took a moment to absorb Shin's words. \n\"I trust this Shugenja has been dealt with and has had to answer for his actions. Let us speak no more of this incident. It doesn't seem to paint the Phoenix in the brightest of color palates.\n\n\"If there is anything more you feel I should know, I would be interested to hear it, Shin. Perhaps I will take stock of the grounds and observe any Ashigaru training procedures.\n\n\"I thank you for the tea.\"\nYamanosuke bowed, respectfully, gratefully. Looking to Shin-san to see his way out and leave the new captain to his newfound duties."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Shin nodded slowly. \"He rides the waves now, that is all that need be said of him. The only thing I will add is that Ambassador-sama himself came out and addressed the wronged samurai himself. All seemed well at first, but when he perceived an implied threat, Ambassador Shiba-sama went from properly apologetic to firm. It was... Impressive to see.\" \n\nHe paused again, giving a slight bow of apology. \"Forgive me, I did not want to speak much further on the matter, but as you had requested further things you should know, that sprang to mind. Not much else out of the ordinary really stands out to me, Asako-sama.\"\n\nTaking the hint, he bowed and stepped outside of the door to shut it for his commanding officer. \"If there is anything else you need, let myself or one of the men know.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 182 | 2,827 |
161.758621 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "The day after their conversation Himiko had been eager to learn. Eager to understand on what could define her. To understand what had ever happened to her. The void would become a part of her life soon. One it already had been. She wasn't aware. The young girl had found herself in front of the front door of the embassy once more. This time to not discuss political things with their ambassador. No, she was here as a student. Himiko had left Ilu at home for today and was dressed in her simple shrine maiden outfit. Her hairs had been braided into two dutch braids to the back of her head. The strands of the braids still reaching to beyond her hips. \n\nThe golden and blue eye blinked twice before she decided to knock. Curious to as why no guard tried to ambush her by now already. Were the Phoenix truly this peaceful? Strange. It brought comfort however. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_Kashikoi walked to the door, having been alerted by a stray servant to the guest at the door. He made his way to the entrance and open one door, leaning sideways as he looked at Himiko, waving._\n\n\"Ohayo, Kitsu-san! Please, come in. We have much to do after all. You seem eager as well, a good trait to have in most scholarly regards.\"\n\n_He gestures her to follow him as he takes her to a spare meeting room within the embassy, surely the others wouldn't mind._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko would bow down. Following him to the meeting room. She was amazed once more at how beautiful this embassy was in person. The kami clearly liked this place more than they had with the Lion embassy. *\"I try. When I have not worked my hardest I am not satisfied.\"* Himiko stated. She would then await orders. She had been well rested even though she had missed half of her resting time. She would smile grandly. \n\n*\"I have not been plagued by nightmares after our chat. Thank you Isawa-sama.\"* Himiko stated. It had been the truth and the truth only. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"You are welcome Kitsu-san, and please, just Isawa-san is fine. If you want, you can even just call me Kashikoi; we are both of the Void after all!\"\n\n_Kashikoi chuckles, gesturing her to sit as he does so himself, arranging to sit comfortably but with some authority in his posture as he looks over the Kitsu._\n\n\"Our embassy is beautiful isn't it? I appreciate the hard work our servants and even my fellow Phoenix have put in to make it so, this is a dedication to peace and harmony of the spirit, thus we worked to match that ideal. But that's not why we're here today,\"\n\n_Kashikoi would beam at Himiko, gesturing to her with one hand._\n\n\"Today, we begin your formal Ishiken training. And do not fret, I am simply using Ishiken as a term for training you in the Void. It can be a mouthful sometimes,\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had smiled. *\"Kashikoi-san. The void will connect us. Please refer to me as Himiko as well.\"* The young girl stated before she settled down. It was comfortable here. This time she did not fully miss Ilu. Nor did she show any nervousness. She would stare at the hand he was gesturing at her with. *\"Ishiken.\"* She whispered under her breath. What a strange name. Not that it had mattered. \n\nShe would take a comfortable yet ergonomic position. Her full attention towards her newfound master. Ready to settle for the void. But first she had a question. \"*Kashikoi-san? Is using the void like it would be normal spells allowed? Is it dangerous to do so? Is it accepted?\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"It is, I have used my abilities openly before; but unfortunately, they are often under scrutiny. There are far more who know a shugenja's craft than those who know ours. Thus, however your abilities manifest, you must be subtle with them. As for dangerous ... Yes, it can be. Would it help if I gave you an example?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"It would help. Is it that they do not understand the ability of the void and therefore shun it?\"* Himiko mentioned. Placing her hands on her lap. She knew this question would lead to explanation and using spells was out of the question for now. But she needed to understand before she blatantly waved it around like a fan. She would rub the scar on her hand with her thumb, as if it was itching. Not her nervousness, it felt like it was actually tingling to do something. Ready to show how good she could be. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"You do not have to show anyone how good you are, Himiko-san. That you wish to receive instruction and learn further is a testament in and of itself. Good fan analogy, by the by.\"\n\n_Kashikoi smiled and leaned back a bit, most found that particular aspect ... Most unpleasant._\n\n\"And yes, from what my instructor said at Starry Heavens, unless they are already aware of the Ishiken or are told ahead of time, they can and will mistake our art for that of Bloodspeakers; speaking their malefic words to bring about their malign will.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Bloodspeakers. I have heard of them. I have not understood their evil. \"* The girl stated. Brushing a few lose hairs behind her ears. *\"I wish to learn how to uncover the spells that I am already aware of. I know a few that I cannot recollect in books and from my understanding and your explanation yesterday I feel like they are void bound.\"* Himiko shifted her weight a bit before leaning forward. \n\n*\"I promise to use the void wisely and for now only under your supervision. I wish not to lose myself.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"I must admit, most are more upset when I touch their minds. Or was that spoken out loud? Hard to tell,\"\n\n_Kashikoi hummed, nodding before looking back at Himiko more coherently._\n\n\"Good, and keep in mind; this power is not akin to that of the kami or even _meishodō_; in those aspects, the results of the spells are more accurate and reliable, with tiny calculations to make regarding the spirits. The Void is not so easily tamed. You may find your abilities activating on their own, for little to no reason. Keep calm and simply try to regain control, it will not be easy, but you are likely used to struggle, yes?\"\n\n_Kashikoi smiles, pride brimming as he nods to her final declaration._\n\n\"Our first lesson: Delving into the Void.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"I have no secrets to hold. I do not mind you hearing me think.\"*Himiko stated. She did not truly mind. She had done this once before. But much like he had explained it had been on accident, she would not be aware of actually hearing minds but more hearing random voices. Puzzle pieces fell into their places. *\"Delving into the void. Let us proceed. I am ready.\"* Himiko stated. \n\nShe was truly ready. She was listening and understood. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Oh, that's a pleasant surprise.\"\n\n_He lost his smile as he assumed a lotus position, hands resting on his knees._\n\n\"Assume this position and close your eyes. Tune out the physical, the material; focus only on the ephemeral, the infinite. Feel the world, and feel the nothing that binds it all, let go. Have no fear, I will be your tether here. Be warned, this will likely not be pleasant.\"\n\n_As she would close her eyes, he would quietly stand and hold his hands over her head, acting as the tether he had mentioned before._\n\n\"If you find yourself capable of speech; describe what you see.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko took the lotus position with a little amount of struggle. She had not been as flexible as she had hoped for but attempted nonetheless. One deep breath, as if she were to dive into a pool of water. She held it. Closing her eyes to prevent the water from irritating them. But there was no splash. There was no good dive. Not even a drop into the water. Nothing happened. It seemed that diving in was not the correct approach. \n\nHimiko heard the Isawa speak about feeling the world, did that mean she had to ground herself? Much like she would do with the element of earth. Another attempt. She would feel the so speaking roots of herself shoot into the ground. Connect to the world? She wished to make it tremble, to listen to it, to hear it. But silence remained. A tiny grunt echoed from the now more frustrated Kitsu. \n\nFeel the nothing that binds it all. Air? But that means she had to let go. Let go. The mental roots would retract themselves. It was time to float. Mentally of course. She had not been able to do so like some Shugenja had. She wished to open her eyes to see if she actually was. Her mind was. All over the place it had been. She'd actually feel lightheaded. But inhaling and holding your breath this much would result in that. Breathe. And Himiko did so. The air had not obeyed her will. Was she truly failing at something she was supposed to be capable of. After all why else would Kashikoi put faith in her. \n\nShe had connected to it many times before. She had, the nightmares were proof. She would feel frustrated. Fire? Was it the pure energy that was supposed to connect her with the void. Fire. Feel the passion of it burn. Do not let the anger take lead. Even though she had felt it boil like crazy. She'd curl up her fists in frustration as not even the fire helped. No, fire had it's own will. She had too. The void had to answer her. She demanded it. \n\nBut perhaps that had been her pitfall. The void did not listen. It was just there. It was all and nothing. Was it like going to sleep? Maybe. No fear. Nothing. Be all. Be nothing. The girl had inhaled deeply once more. Then exhaled. The void was all she feared, and nothing she'd be afraid of. Then the floor dissapeared from underneath her. It had been truly dark. If she were capable of screaming and opening her eyes she would. This would exactly be like one of her nightmares. Be not afraid. \n\nShe was alone. But she did not feel alone. It was strange. \n\nAs from the outside world Himiko was capable of screaming. She simply was not aware. Her eyes squinted as almost she was forced to keep them shut. The girl had yelled. Once however. Nothing else had changed about her. At first glance alas. She opened her mouth to speak. \n\n*\"I feel blinded. I have not experienced a darkness like this.\"* The young girl whispered. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Is there anything else you feel? A lingering smell, a phantom touch?\"\n\n_He stood firm, using his powers to hold Himiko in place and not fall too deep into the Void. He smiled, hearing the wayward thoughts,_\n\n\"It did take you a moment; but struggle is the mark of progress. Do not despair if you cannot get something immediately. Even trained Ishiken struggle.\"\n\n_He kept his focus on Himiko's self._\n\n\"Do not be afraid to feel around, to take in the Void. But be wary of opening your eyes; the knowledge within the Void is vast, but crippling.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Is it strange to say that it feels warm and cold at the same time? Like a fever but somehow not unpleasant.\"* Himiko attempted to describe what she was feeling. But she did not manage to reach her senses that well. She had barely even heard the Isawa guiding her. Within the void she had moved her hands. Moving her fingers in an alternating pattern. She had felt them. As for the real life she had barely even lifted them. \n\n*\"Does that mean I am not allowed to open them?\"* The young girl questioned. Her curiosity soon to get the hang of her. She wished not to disobey the will of a master, but something within the space was whispering. It was echoing. \n\n*\"Can something speak to me or am I hearing my own thoughts?\"* Another question. Enough questioning, Himiko said to herself. She would then inhale through her nose. A smell, huh? It smelled like rice. No, noodles. Chicken noodles. It was delicious. But soon it had faded into a faint smell. The smell of rain in Rokugan. No not Rokugan, her hometown. \n\n*\"Rain. I smell rain. I feel it too\"* The young girl was slowly but steadily exploring whatever the void had let lose upon her. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"I would advise against opening them. Unless you wish to end up like me;\"\n\n_The line sounds humorous, but the intensity is present._\n\n\"Likely a mixture of my voice, your thoughts and the words of days gone by or soon to come.\"\n\n_He smiled, inhaling gently and imagining petrichor._\n\n\"Good, try to expand. Feel beyond your means; truly experience the intricacies of the Void. Let your imagination guid you, and remember: you are part of the flow, not its director or guide. You are the flow.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"So I can see what I want to see?\"* Himiko questioned. Trying to imagine her hometown, as that is where the smell originated from. Still squinting her eyes to make sure they were closed. *\"But how can I see if I do not open my eyes?\"* Suddenly she heard the rustling of the bushes. It almost made her ear twitch. She could hear children laughing. It made her frown. The feeling of the wind embraced her and before she knew it, she had opened her eyes. Not in the real world. Those were still squinting. \n\nIt was her past. Her home. Something she hadn't seen in so long as she feared to ever to return to it. But now there was no fear. She watched the houses into detail. Soon to vanish into nothingness. Empty. Just how she had felt after that slight feeling of euphoria. *\"Is it telling me things? Do I listen? What does it seek?\"* Himiko questioned. She had not twitched nor shown symptoms. After all she was familiar with it, only lost the memory of it. Her voice was calm. \n\n*\"I opened my eyes. It was an accident.\"* Himiko stated. Yet no form of pain. She just wished for Kashikoi to know. She was not defending herself. \n\nHer eyes would soon glance at streams of energy surrounding her. It was strange. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"How long? You must be careful, Himiko-san! The Void will fill your mind with information until you cannot understand, you will effectively die, while you draw breath! That you still comprehend is a miracle,\"\n\n_Kashikoi exhaled in relief, he had figured they would eventually get to seeing in the Void, but she seemed alright._\n\n\"You will eventually learn means to keep then open; but for now, simply see with your mind. With that which paints immaculate pictures unseen.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko immediately closed her eyes. *\"It's going to burn my brains out is it not?\"* She continued to breathe normally. Once again nothing out of the ordinary. It remained silent for this moment. Himiko would not speak but show clear signs of truly being alive. She then whispered. *\"I hear song. Music.\"* And she did. It was loud, pretty then soft and sharp. *\"It has shown me my home. Now it is showing me some sorts of festivities. I hear the music. I hear the people. I feel their warmth.\"* \nIt was clear the young girl remained sharp in her senses. Yet something about this was soothing. *\"I smell food. It smells pleasant. Why is it showing me this? Is this happening somewhere in our world?\"*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Most likely; even the heimin have their own traditions and festivals outside of the mandated ones.\"\n\n_Kashikoi hums, closing his own eyes to briefly touch on the images in her head, nodding approvingly._\n\n\"Not exactly; how I have seen is the person is just ... Inert. Unable to process what they learned and saw. In a constant loop of never ending attempts to understand.\"\n\n_Kashikoi solemnly says, shaking his head as the though comes._\n\n\"Trapped in an infinite Void of their own making.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Lost to their own void. Their body remains on the planet but their soul is here?\"* Himiko tried to clarify. She would relax a bit more. Hearing the hum from the Isawa reassured her. *\"Tell me, why is it important for me to be here?\"* The young one questioned. It was clear that it was something she did not mind. But understood the dangers of. Ones she had to witness firsthand to truly comprehend. The scenery had changed. \n\nMuch like Kashikoi had explained, it was a flow. Go with it or drown. So she floated. Stayed afloat. The smell of grass tingled her nose, it made her sneeze. *\"Apologies Kashikoi-san.\"* She mentioned as she was unaware of her true body had done the same. But soon she was disrupted by the sound of metal clinging against metal. It was a sharp sound. Soon it became a shout. She recalled this. *\"Kashikoi-san. I will remain with no fear, but please guide me through this. This is a memory of my ancestor. I recognize this dream as no other. It reoccurs.\"* \n\nShe could soon hear the smell of blood. The sensation of pain on her fingers. Like they had been chopped off. She did not scream nor cry. She just remained silent. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"I will more firmly tether you, just tell me when you wish to be brought back.\"\n\n_Kashikoi did as he said he would, tightening his hold over her incorporeal form so he could pull her out if needed, but not tight enough to restrict her._\n\n\"All must feel the Void's flow before they can begin to harness it. Much like how initiates learning the way of the Fire kami must first understand the power of the flame.\"\n\n_He chuckled,_\n\n\"Your body has not moved Himiko-san, you are only emoting and such in the Void.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"The void is both all and nothing. You told me to not fear, so I will not.\"* The girl had squinted her eyes at the scream of her ancestor. The scar on her arm on her physical body started to spread. Himiko would wave her hand around in the void. \n\n*\"It is taxing. It is hurting. But I still feel okay. I feel no fear.\"* The girl inhaled deeply and experienced the nightmare firsthand. With that the scar stopped it's growth. *\"This is not me. This is my ancestor. I am them and they are me. But I should not suffer.\"* Himiko stated. Trying to push through the loud noise of war. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"Remember, it is just an echo in the Void; you feel her pain but it is not yours. You simply are feeling the phantom pains. Tell me if it continues to progress, I will pull you out before it actually harms you.\"\n\n_Kashikoi emphasized his point by tugging their connection, letting her feel the tug._\n\n\"Good, you are a brave Lion. A brave Kitsu; but bravery is also admitting when you have reached your limit.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko nodded. She understood. *\"I wish to pass through this so I will not fear this nightmare anymore.\"* The young one spoke in a more strained voice. But it soon went silent. The tranquility of the void had returned. The war was gone. A war that wasn't hers to fight. \n\n*\"I wish to return to our world Kashikoi-san. I am tired.\"* She could feel her head bob. To her being so tired out of the sudden was impossible yet it happened. Much like the Phoenix spoke. Admit when you have reached your limit. So she did. \n\nShe could feel her hands burn a bit. Her mind was soothing as if she were ready to go into hibernation. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "_Kashikoi nodded, gently tugging her consciousness back to the material, glancing over her, arms out ready to catch her if she should begin to fall over._\n\n\"Congratulations, Himiko-san. You have passed your initiation, how do you feel?\"\n\n_He made sure to keep an eye on her responses, grey eyes gleaming intently as he analyzed her return to consciousness._\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko would gasp loudly. It was like thinking you had to breathe how you were breathing that you suddenly could not automatically breathe anymore. She felt strange as the light suddenly hitting her eyes had burned. But it was good to be back. \n\n*\"I feel exhausted. I could sleep for days.\"* The young one spoke. Sure that she actually could do so. The gold and blue eye gazed back as she'd smile at the Isawa. *\"Thank you Kashikoi-san.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "jediknight98",
"message": "\"That usually is the response one has after diving into the Void,\"\n\n_Kashikoi chuckled, holding up a small sweet to the Kitsu woman with a soft smile._\n\n\"You are very welcome, Himiko-san. It is my pleasure to teach you,\"\n\n_He tilted his head as he sat beside her._\n\n\"Now, the true training begins. After you rest of course, must not rush this.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "revanchist_industries",
"message": "*The Void is everywhere. It is everywhen. The intangible nothingness and everything pervades and exudes the entirety of the unexistence of its presence. The Void sits in its Realm and patiently, eagerly waits those who touch it.\n\nOh, the Void is so* Very *Patient.\n\nIt waits, and hungers, but does not fear, because people will reach into it. It merely must sit quietly and prepare. Some day the right mind will touch it, and all potentiality will spill forth.\n\nThey already have. They are. They will. They must. It is the way of weak, curious mortals to tap into that which promises such power.\n\nAnother set of hands have splashed upon its surface. Perhaps this one will be the one who has fulfilled their future. The glorious day of Nothing\n\nOne day in the now of past futures, all is the Realm of Void.*\n\n||"
}
] | 125 | 4,691 |
191.857143 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "It was Himiko entering the embassy without struggle. As if they had known she'd show up here sooner or later. No protest. Lord if she were an assassin many would've died with ease. But she was not. Perhaps they read like she could. \n\nA servant had guided her through the hallways into the library. The one that had been public of course. It was none of her business to scroll through war plans and other things. She just demanded answers. Answers about why she no longer remembered. She remembered running. It felt like she was a defector in all ways but a war has two sides right? She scoffed. She seemed friendly enough in her shrine maiden attire. Perhaps that was the cause they had let her in. But everything had screamed lion about her so obviously. It had not mattered. Time to find answers. \n\nThe young lion started to look through the sides of the books and scrolls. Quickly screening them. Nothing had called her out yet. Nothing was there. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Libraries are places where Terumi rarely finds himself in but here he was, idle curiosity guiding his steps, trying to familiarize himself with one of the Phoenix's holdings in the City of Lies. As the young bushi stepped inside, he carefully looked around, sating his curious mind as he took in the quiet but familiar sight. It was modest compared to the one in Ayako lands. Some Isawas have ones bigger than this one in their compounds.\n\nThen his gaze fixed upon a sight most unusual. A blonde scouring the books and scrolls, clearly looking for something.\n\nTerumi blinked and then he glided towards a nearby _chabudai_ for reading and quietly sat, patiently observing the blonde woman.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Crap. A Phoenix. She had felt his presence the moment he stepped in. He had not suspected her yet otherwise the normally pacifist phoenix would at least speak up about situations like these. The 5 feet tall girl remained silently scrolling through the books. Nothing. The short tempered child silently sighed before continuing this dreading task. She wanted answers but to pray towards the kami in front of a phoenix in their library was just outright strange.\n\nShe'd push back the gigantic mane of blonde hairs, which was past her body length, she had not tended to it and therefore it had dragged over the floors a bit. She would shoot a glance at the Shiba observing her. His eyes were burning in the back of her head and she wished to speak up. But she had not. Instead she grabbed a random book. One about spells. Placed it down on the table next to his. Revealing the deep scarring all over her face and body. Not to mention her hetrochromic eyes. Himiko was the embodiment of Gajin and being clearly bad fortune. The blue and gold eyes shot a glance at him before she nodded her head slightly to acknowledge him. \n\n Back to scrolling through the book of spells. Some of which she knew. Some of which she didnt. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "The Phoenix observing her was clearly a taller individual. In contrast to her, he was a man of pale skin and long dark hair that nearly reaches his waist in length. His eyes were dark pools, unnerving in their serenity as he stared at her. If not for the telltale broadness of his shoulders and the way he carries himself, he might be mistaken for a woman. As she takes his appearance in, he does so in turn. Clearly a gaijin and with strange but alluring eyes of blue and gold.\n\nHow odd, this visitor was. How strange and unique. He has met many a gaijin during his _musha shugyo_ but never with eyes like hers.\n\nTerumi was content with the silence, staring at her from behind in a seating position and a faint but polite smile upon his lips. If the visitor does not wish to speak, then he shall not break the quiet with words. When she nodded at him, he nodded politely in return, smile not moving from his face.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had continued. His eyes kept burning. A wrong judgement. One she could use to her advantage. Everyone had judged poorly when meeting her. Based of her behaviour and looks. After all she simply looked like a gajin child dressing up as a shrine maiden. Her fingers went over the pages of the scrolls. Nothing. Only a fire spell she had known for ages. One that made her breathe fire. She put back the book. Scrolling over others. Then perhaps ask a phoenix. \n\n*\"I assume you are not a librarian, but are you aware of any books about the magic of the phoenix clan?\"* Himiko silently asked. She had sounded like a child as well. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Terumi regarded her with an unchanging look. His gaze was still unnerving but it was not unkind and the smile on his face has not left. He patiently thought about her question, taking a few seconds of contemplation. Several seconds, actually.\n\n\"I am not.\" He replied in a soft voice. \"May I ask why you are looking for knowledge about the Phoenix's magic?\"\n\nSoft as his voice was, it also held no judgment. Only curiosity.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko decided it was time to introduce herself. She bowed down deeply. *\"I am Kitsu Himiko. A shrine maiden assigned here. I am seeking for the magic of the phoenix that can teach me how to heal.\"* Himiko was not capable of lying. She was simply capable of leaving out details that gave away her true meaning. She was indeed looking for healing. Healing herself. Healing her mind. *\"I did not find any in our own library and therefore I went here. A place with great knowledge of shugenja.\"* She smiled slightly. The two strands of hair in front of her face were fluffy braids, detailed with golden clips to keep them in place. \n\n*\"I apologize for bothering you.\"* She stated. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"There is no need for apologies. You have not bothered me.\" \n\nStill smiling that faint but polite smile, the young man bowed as deep as she did.\n\n\"I am Shiba Terumi, a duelist.\" He said, introducing himself in return. \"Unfortunately, I am not one of the shugenja of my clan and a newcomer besides. I won't be of much help in your search.\"\n\nThe Phoenix know much and continue to broaden that knowledge with every opportunity they can get but that is not Terumi's expertise and it will continue to be that way. He respects the powers of the Shugenja but that path is not for him.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"A duelist huh?\"* It had at least sparked Himiko's interest. A conversation the both of them could have so her presence and his presence wouldn't be as uncomfortable as it had been right now. She would hold out her hands, both filled with blisters as a grand smirk grew upon her face. She had not minded the fact that he hadn't known shugenja things, easier to cover this up. \n\n*\"I have been training with Akodo-sama and these results are painful, should they be?\"* She smirked. *\"It is an honor meeting you Shiba-sama.\"* \n\nThe Kitsu continued to scroll through the book in the hopes she could find what she needed. *\"I am no true swordsman like you, but I wish to at least understand your craft a tad bit more. Any advice for a newcomer?\"* She smiled politely. Himiko was presenting herself as the ambassador although she had not stated it. Something about this Phoenix fella just brought out this behavior. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "His eyes lowered towards her hand, quietly taking in what she meant for him to see. He was still smiling when his eyes met hers once again.\n\n\"The pain will pass as your skills broaden,\" He said. \"And I assure you that the honor is mine, Kitsu-sama.\"\n\nOnce her name was uttered, Terumi was fully aware of her position. He did not want to earn the ire of his superiors as well. After all, he was a Shiba and not an Isawa. If there was a list for diplomatic blunders, he would not want to add his name to it.\n\n\"Advice?\" He mused as he languidly stood, striding forth to accompany the Lion ambassador from a polite distance. \"For a newcomer, I suggest decisiveness, Kitsu-sama. You will grow in skill and you will grow in strength, but what use are those when one cannot follow knowledge with action?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had raised her eyebrow to the in her eyes cryptic advice. After all she had little to no knowledge on how to even use a sword. She smiled politely. His smile became less unnerving to her. It was actually quite friendly. The golden and blue eye glanced towards him. \n\n*\"So much like the knowledge of spellcraft? You seek the knowledge but without actually casting the spells the knowledge is useless?\"* Himiko attempted to put this in her words. She came clean to her purpose here however. \n\n*\"Much like I sought out books about spellcraft here? And like I will instead gain knowledge on swordsmanship instead?\"* She would close the book and place it back into the shelf. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "His smile became mirthful as he politely chuckled. Her eyes were quite striking. Beautiful, even. They were like gems and quite enchanting. He made sure not to gaze at them for too long. It would be impolite.\n\n\"Yes, Kitsu-sama.\" He said with a firm nod. \"I have grown alongside many a shugenja. I have seen them perform great feats and cast fascinating spells but I have also seen them flounder and fail, just as I have seen many a bushi fail to implement their earned skills in duels.\"\n\nThose without confidence and those easily shaken usually make for poor opponents. Terumi has always ended those battles as quick as he could, knowing that he would not truly enjoy it.\n\nHis serene eyes flicked towards the taller Lion's, considering her words.\n\n\"Perhaps if you have encountered another shugenja, Kitsu-sama, you might have found what you were looking for.\" He said, courteous but with a hint of amusement and apology. \"Instead you have found this simple swordsman.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"Swordsmen are never simple from what my experience has taught me. Not that they are complex beings.\"* Himiko understood the slight amusement in his voice. So she continued. \n\n*\"Swordsmen are dedicated, determined, strong and yet they owe this precision. It's admirable. Although I will not seek out that way as it will take my focus away from my duties as shugenja.\"* Himiko smiled. \n\n*\"Answers I seek, I seek for reasons. Not finding them was never my full expectation.\"* Himiko traced one of her scars with her fingers. A habit she owed overtime. \n\n*'I do one day wish to learn the ways of the weapon good enough to fend for myself. I owe a set of Tessen if you are familiar with those.\"* Himiko remained smiling. Setting herself down around a table. Gesturing the Phoenix to join if he felt like it. \n\n*\"If you don't mind I wish to receive some of your knowledge about swordsmanship. Perhaps I can understand my clanmates better. Appreciate them more.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Her description of swordsmanship brought a happier smile to the young bushi's face. In his experience, shugenjas rarely acknowledge the skills of those who cannot speak with the kami. It was a pleasant breath of fresh air to have one speak highly of his kind.\n\n\"I have seen tessen and are curious of their use but, forgive me, I have dedicated my life to the way of the sword and little else.\" He said, though clearly unbothered by the admittance. \"Perhaps one day I might take the use of the naginata like the rest of my family but for now I am but a humble practitioner of the katana.\"\n\nThe table was between them as he sat across from her.\n\n\"The Lion are warriors known far and wide, indeed.\" He mused, remembering his bout with a certain Ikoma. \"Swordsmanship, as you know, is a very physical art. One must teach the body as well as the mind how to do certain things. The better your body is, the stronger you are.\"\n\nThen, he smiled wider.\n\n\"But as you can see, I look slender. Frail, even. Skill cannot be substituted for strength but that is a thought that goes both ways. In my case, I use my skill to defeat more powerful foes. To me, the perfect fighter is someone who has honed their mind, body, and their souls to the very limits.\" \n\nHe paused, a look of apology on his still-smiling face.\n\n\"Ah, forgive me, Kitsu-sama. It seems I have defaulted to philosophical meanderings. If you wish for me to show you more practical knowledge I can also show you but it must be done outside of this library.\"\n\n||"
}
] | 196 | 2,686 |
219.581081 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo chose what was supposed to be a rainy day for their trip to the Phoenix embassy, but instead the Kami of the weather had seen fit to give them overcast weather. The rains of the previous days had passed, and it seemed it would sweltering in the coming days, but at least the cloud cover helped keep the temperature down a little bit.\n\nHe turned to Kitsu Himiko as they approached the gate. This one had been his idea, but as he was visiting the Ambassador of the Phoenix Clan, he felt that he should bring her along to meet as well. Especially if he was bringing a gift to say 'thank you' for having such an exceptional samurai in their service.\n\n\"It really was too much to be coincidence, but I did not expect the Phoenix clan to have their spy master following me in the market. Regardless, he was an exceptional help to me in navigating the chaos of the Unicorn Bazaar. I feel like they could be good friends to have.\"\n\nHe knew she had a fraught relationship with the Phoenix clan, but he had agreed to coming with him.\n\nThey approached the gate and an Ashigaru soldier stepped up to ask what their business was.\n\n\"We are the Lion clan, the Ambassador should be expecting us.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon looked up from the shogi board set up between Sanumo and himself at the announcement from one of the servants that there were Lion Clan members arrived for a visit. Sanumo was kindly indulging Iemon shifting his focus briefly to something not related directly to politics in the city. The pieces he had set up were a gift from Utaku Kazuko, a lovely set to be sure. \n\n\"Please, get some tea boiling and show them in, we'll receive them here.\" They had taken the opportunity to sit in the open courtyard, though Iemon still kept an eye open for any sign of rain to preserve the longevity of the shogi pieces.\n\nWithin minutes a small table was brought out, as well as tea. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had observed the gardens with her keen eye. It was just like how it used to be in the phoenix clan. It granted her a feeling of nostaliga for only a slight moment. Easily snapping her back to the current moment as she had eyeballed Akodo for a second. *\"There are some details I have left out for you. Please do not be offended when some of those details come to the surface. I am grateful you have brought me here Akodo-sama.\"*\n\n-Some stones should be left unturned- were the words that had chimed in her head. She had left the clan on wrong foot but she had found out about the many truths this clan held behind her being an Isiken. She was 'free\" To go wherever she wished. But she knew eyes were burning in her neck all of her life. After all the void was not only for her to connect, but others to connect to her as well. \n\nThe small lion had been dressed nicely and the wild manes she normally bore had now been shoved into one strong knot on her head. Instead of wearing the clothing of the shrine maiden she had worn her ambassadors kimono. *\"Although it seemes there is not a lot at stake, for me there is.\"* Himiko whispered to herself. If Akodo had been listening well enough he would be able to understand. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "At Himiko's words, color drained from Akodo's face, but it was at that moment the servant returned to show them to the Ambassador. His thoughts were suddenly thrown into chaos. *What on Rokugan could she be talking about? What have I walked her into?* She had been excited to come, though the energy about her had been slightly odd. Was there some past between her and the Phoenix clan he was unaware of? Did he need to be on guard to defend her from something? He was about to introduce her to the Ambassador and his most accomplished spy... By the Kami, what had Katsuhiro done?\n\nSo he sought an old trick he had learned, he sought stillness in his mind, he controlled his breathing and his heart rate. He grabbed his attention, his new anxiety, and through pure determination and training brought himself into crystal clear *Focus*. And then he put on a pleasant but neutral face, and they were walked to the courtyard with the Ambassador.\n\nAs they were brought forward, Akodo followed the lead of Himiko, bowing just a second after her so he could bow just a little deeper, and remain bowed for just a second longer, and then he stood to his full height. While he still had not yet had good, formal ceremonial kimono made, he had what typically he wore for ceremonial occasions within the military. The Jinbaori was unorthodox without armor, but he felt that it made him look suitably military but formal. Perhaps he would start a fashion trend. The Earthen tones with golden highlights for the Lion and Akodo clan mons were well done, but it was showing perhaps a bit of age. The eyes, however, would be more quickly drawn to the daisho at his side. The twin saya were masterfully painted to look like tiger's eye, and the tsuba reflected the mountains and trees of the Lion lands, while the kashira were Lion's paws. Painted on the Saya as well were lions in various states of hunting and pouncing. He was quite proud of them and excited to show them off for the first time."
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Thank the fortunes for guests. Sanumo had truly no idea how to play Shogi and he tired of wearily chasing pieces around a board to no avail. It was a relief that he could focus on something more worthwhile.\n\nDressed more formally, if hardly less simply, than we he first met Katsuhiro, Sanumo bowed to their guests alongside Iemon. He wore a fine kimono and hakama, the former a pale yellow and the latter striped with the same yellow and a light green. On display were the mons of the Phoenix, Asako, and Lore Masters. The only other thing of note was a thin circlet he wore made of some variety of cord.\n\nRising from his bow, he was surprised to see Katsuhiro looked a bit pale. Was he ok? While he'd like to ask, it would be rude to speak out of turn and so it was left unspoken; only a mild look of concern was given to him before marshaling his expression.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon's own kimono was what he considered the least formal he could wear when reasonable expectation of matters of state could come up, displaying the mon of the Phoenix as well as the Shiba family proudly on display. \n\nHe bowed in greeting to their guests, a younger and smaller Lion, and an older and much more militarily dressed one as well. The Jinbaori he wore was a striking effect, but the ambassador kimono the younger wore somewhat surprised him, though he kept his face neutral. *I knew there was a new Lion ambassador, but I would have thought... Hm, no matter.* The simple logic would have been to name a more veteran member of their clan to the position, but age was hardly a determining factor in overall capability. \n\n\"Greetings, Kitsu-san and Akodo-san, welcome to our humble embassy. Please, make yourselves comfortable. I have tea prepared, would you like anything to eat?\" He gestured for them to sit with Sanumo and himself at the table, and places his own daisho in the seating mat to his right, signifying peaceful intent.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had individually bowed down to both of the Phoenix. She inhaled deeply as if she were about to give the speech of a lifetime. This however had not been the case. Was she nervous? No. Yes? She could not even get the hang of her emotions right now. On one side this had felt almost like returning back home after a long time. The other time held grudges, not to these Phoenix specifically but to the clan on it's own. The gold and blue set of eyes had not met theirs directly but glanced just past them to make sure the evil would not connect. Not only had her past been an issue, the fact that the stability in her life, Ilu, had been left at home. It had raised some concern over the poor servants who had to contain the beast without a master. Enough being lost in thoughts, Himiko snapped back to reality as she finally rose from her bow.\n\n*\"Thank you for having us Shiba-sama, Asako-sama.\"* Himiko had thanked them as she stepped into the embassy and settled down to the place the Phoenix had guided them towards. Folding her hands on her lap as she had observed the beautiful insides of the embassy. Although she had not let it show in form of emotion. \"*It's gorgeous here.\"* Himiko mentioned. Then glancing to Akodo in hopes he'd break the awkwardness in her behaviour. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo noticed a look of concern from Sanumo. *Oh no, am I showing too much on my face?* So he school himself some more, looking so impassive he appeared almost sad. *I cannot give their spymaster an inch while Himiko is here, I need to be the perfect courtier.* Akodo sat down on the mat at his appropriate place, but as he did so noticed the shogi board.\n\n\"Yes, we appreciate the hospitality of the Phoenix clan. I greatly appreciate the tea, but would hate to be an inconvience to you on the food.\" He went about the ritual of refusing the food the appropriate number of times before he could accept. It would give him something to mask his discomfort.\n\n\"I also wish to thank you for the invaluable assistance Asako Sanumo-san provided me the other day. His attention to detail and knowledge of the goings on in the Bazaar was beyond equal and saved me hours in my tasks. As such, I wanted to formally thank the Phoenix clan for their help with a small gift of appreciation.\"\n\nAkodo reached into his things and pulled out a warn, used copy of *Leadership* By Kami Akodo. It was not an original by any stretch of the imagination, but unlike a new copy of the book, this one had writing in the back half, showing it had been held by a through the course of their life. The back of the journal would require more time to read through the less than ideal penmanship, but it was from the perspective of an Ikoma who served alongside a different Akodo taisa who made war with the Scorpion clan, until ultimately he was killed, and the book found its way into circulation.\n\n\"I can see you are a fan of Shogi, as am I. I have found that it is a great way to practice strategy both for war and for life. I offer you this humble gift of thanks for your personal collection as a fellow fan of history and strategy.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon bowed again to the Lion ambassador. \"You honor us too much, Kitsu-sama, but I thank you for your consideration.\" He raises the honorific use to acknowledge her use of it, hoping to ease the formality slightly. As this was a first meeting with the Lions, he knew they had a reputation as sticklers for tradition and respect, but hoped to move the tone to a more overtly friendly one. Tone and intent were easier to control if the situation was considered more friendly. \n\nThe older Akodo joined in the game of refusals quickly enough, and Iemon happily obliged politely insisting through the customary refusals. \"Please, it is no trouble at all, Asako-san and I were going to pause to dine ourselves soon, and more company is always appreciated.\"\n\nHe bowed at the kind compliments the older man offered Sanumo, and soon found it his turn to begin customarily refusing the gift offered, though his eyes lit up with a flash of joy seeing the well-worn volume offered.\n\n\"I do enjoy Shogi, though I regret my skills are middling at best. I can appreciate the value in being able to demonstrate superior strategy in a way that does not necessitate bloodshed. I hope we may have the opportunity to play at some point, I am afraid Asako-san here only agrees to play to indulge my idle humors, and does not share a passion for the game.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« It's true. The hand knows the motions, but the heart does not follow. » Not that a samurai's passions had a guaranteed place in their life to begin with; hence allowing Iemon his games from time to time was a necessary sacrifice.\n\nSanumo quietly unfurled his fan to hide his momentary glee that Katsuhiro had indeed chosen to offer the gift he had suggested. There were any number of reasons that he could have elected not to or been dissuaded from that course, but he had followed through.\n\nIt seemed curious to him that Akodo was taking point in the Lion's endeavors thus far, but their ambassador was new - and thus an unknown. Maybe they preferred to delegate or otherwise act through proxies when they could. It was too early to tell, but worth considering nonetheless.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had smiled as she had watched Akodo converse with the two Phoenix whilst she was trying to get her own act together. Her eyes had glanced over the attire of the two without making it look like she was staring. Instead she attempted to pat something but only patted the ground once. Alone. \n\n*\"Some food does sound like a delight. Are you sure you don't mind Shiba-sama?\"* Himiko had finally found herself talking in a moment of silence. Her face had grown more polite and warm. As if it had melted away the side edge of nervousness. This however did not get her to speak a lot. After all, Akodo was much better at this. \n\n*\"Apologies for my strange behavior. Normally I bring my dog everywhere with me but I decided to leave her home for today as she needed resting. It feels rather strange.\"* Himiko admitted. It was the truth for her strange behavior but a lie for her nervousness. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo had noticed Himiko suddenly acting strangely, but hadn't put it together until he saw her reach for Ilu. Then it struck him two ways. The first that it was a crutch she needed to overcome, and the second was it clicking that that was why she was acting strangely. A moment later she said as much and Akodo was proud of himself for putting it together so quickly. *I shall have to endeavor to make such future meetings at our embassy so that Ilu can be on hand* It would simply not do to bring her without specific invitation to a diplomatic meeting.\n\n\"I would very much love to play shogi with you. I am afraid I am a bit rusty. I lost my set somewhere along the river during the... Extended skirmish with the Unicorn clan a few years ago. We have a basic set at the embassy but nothing so nice as what you have here. Still, I could hold my own back in my days at the War College.\" Hopefully the change of subject would distract from Himiko's moment of vulnerability.\n\n\"If you do not mind my pressing, Ambassador-sama, have you found much luck increasing your library from among the markets here? I would certainly not consider myself widely read, but I do enjoy expanding my knowledge.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"It is no trouble, Kitsu-sama, it honors us to offer hospitality to welcome guests to our embassy.\" Iemon gives a mild smile. \"There is no need for apologies, I understand well the feeling of situations being off-putting. If there is anything we can do to put you at ease, please do not hesitate to ask.\"\n\nHe looks at the shogi set, nodding to the compliment of the Akodo. \"It was a gift, which I am very grateful to put to good use.\" Iemon assumed that mentioning it was a gift from the Voice of the Unicorn may have made for a sensitive topic, given the circumstances of Katsuhiro's lost set.\n\n\"I am afraid my luck is rather sparse as of yet, literature is not one of the primary focuses of merchants in the city. Though, I have yet to thoroughly browse the bazaar outside of town, that may be where I try next.\" In truth, his time was limited outside of his official duties, and he hated the thought of detracting his focus from the state of the city if at all possible. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Catching Iemon's eye and acquiring a brief nod of permission, Sanumo interjected.\n\n« While I agree that Ryoko Owari Toshi is by no means a veritable bastion of acquirable literature, I was able to find *Some* Purveyors of such things when I performed an accounting of the bazaar recently. If it would suit you, Shiba-sama, I could draft a list of suitable locations for you to consider. »\n\n« After all, there are better tasks to attend to than wasting your time with such wanderings, no? »\n\n*I knew scouring that maze of merchants would be of use. The ambassador will surely start wondering what else I can pull out of my sleeves at the drop of a hat.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"That is, in fact, what brings me here to begin with. Asako-san's diligence in cateloging and understanding the bizzare bazaar was incredibly useful for me, both in inquiring gifts, but also helping me regain something that needed to be replaced.\"\n\nAkodo gestured with one hand to the gemstone haori-himo that he wore.\n\n\"The former that I wore had been a gift. You see, the katana I recieved at my gempuku was broken beyond repair during a battle the first time I was in command of my own unit. I had been frustrated it was broken and by the battle, but the chui I served under at the time took it, and the blade that I had, well, been injured by to put it politely, and had them forged into beads for haori-himo which I recieved at my promotion.\"\n\nAkodo realized he had grown long winded.\n\n\"I was very particular about what I wanted to replace it with, and Asako was very helpful in this. The Fortunes smile upon you giving the Phoenix clan and the Embassy here such a talented samurai.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon looks at the haori-himo with renewed appreciation of its meaning to Katsuhiro. \"Indeed, that is quite the meaningful gift, and replacement of such a thing must have been quite arduous.\n\n\"I say in no uncertain terms, Asako-San is truly one of the best of us. His efforts in aiding me have been beyond compare, and I would be quite deeply over my head if I did not have his aid in keeping above water.\" In his eyes, Sanumo was the one better prepared for the grander points of power. This praise was sincere, in Iemon's eyes, though he knew (or at least hoped) he wasn't quite as inept as he painted himself as. \n\nNot that the two Lion needed to know that yet, however. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "It was a rather fortunate thing that his heart didn't stop when such weighty praise was thrown upon him. His breath did catch in his throat, however, and he did his best to cover it up with a brief diversion of tea. An astute observer would certainly recognize the time-buying measure for what it was.\n\n*I've done it! In no uncertain terms, the ambassador has proclaimed me an instrumental asset to the clan - and in front of a fellow ambassador, no less!*\n\nHe cleared his throat and set down his tea. « I live to serve the Phoenix. To do it well is only what should be expected. »\n\n« In truth, Akodo-sama, I hadn't realized the significance of what I was helping you with at the time. It brings me no end of joy to find that my humble efforts had such an impact. » He allowed a smile to reach his eyes, if not the rest of his face.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"If you would both be so kind as to indulge me to show the full fruits of what Asako-san has helped me with. I fear it shall paint me as a braggard, but it would not be possible otherwise.\" Akodo gestured to the two grandiose swords at his side, and slowly and ceremoniously removed the katana from his side, holding it out to show the two.\n\n\"Mine was a soldier's blade, and I had need of something more befitting my station at the Ambassador's side.\"\n\nThe saya of the katana was a deep mix of honey gold and earthen browns with metalic goal highlights, not unlike a tigers eye gemstone. The tsuba was engraved with the vistas of the lion lands, bonsai trees, shaped shrubs and peaks from the Spine of the World. The Kashira at the end was a lion's paw wrapped around the base. Painted on each side of the saya were two scenes. On one side, a lion was depicted in full pounce, showing the great beast in intricate detail from nose to tail, bearing its teeth and claws. Inset within its eyesd was a single black onyx. The reverse, the side which would be seen were a samurai to set his swords on the right in a sign of peace, was a pride of lions at rest, the leader with eyes of a green emerald. The wakizashi could be seen to be similar in style, but differently designed. When worn on the left as all samurai would, the aggressive side was shown. When set to the right as a sign of peace, the sleeping lion would be shown.\n\n\"Truly a work of art, from a gifted Crane bladesmith within the city.\" Once he had finished the display, he laid the blade on his right, showing the sleeping pride of Lions in an unsubtle display.\n\n\"Perhaps, if you are amenable Ambassador Shiba-sama, I could come and play Shogi with you from time to time. I would enjoy learning from someone who did not receive the same War College lessons I did. Perhaps we can learn from one another.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon looked on the weapons, and nodded politely at the placement of them upon the side of peace, acknowledging the gesture. \"Truly, the craftsmanship is impressive. I am glad to hear that Asako-san has been so willing to deploy his gifts for such good purposes.\" Iemon's own daisho was pointedly simple. He did not begrudge others their chosen ornamentation, but for him, his weapons need not be a great work of aesthetics. They were a tool, the purpose of which was death and harm. No matter how beautiful, it was a veneer. *No matter how beautiful a flame could be, unwise handling of it causes burns.*\n\n\"I would welcome such company, Akodo-sama, though I fear there is much more that I could gain in such an exchange. My education gave the barest basics of War, focusing instead on personal combat and the principles of being a proper yojimbo. Both of which skills have spent the last months gathering more dust than I care to admit.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "While the pieces Akodo showed off were far more ostentatious than anything he'd care to display on his own person, a background in the arts had at least instilled a respect for the effort and detail that went into such things. He might even have to inquire as to which Crane had manufactured them, if only on the off-chance that he had use for such a connection.\n\nHe couldn't help but admire how Akodo was conducting himself during this visit. Especially for a bushi, he was minding his manners and even making strides in furthering communication directly with Iemon. It was unclear whether his clan's reputation was wrongfully exaggerated or if he was a simple outlier, but he was glad for it nonetheless.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "*Perhaps in another visit I should inquire about some of his training as a Yojimbo. It has been a long time since I was a protector, rather than the protected.* The thought gave a wry smile to Akodo that he tried to suppress. He was proud of Himiko as an ambassador, and the court settings that he usually accompanied her on were typically safe, but there would arise times when he would need to protect her, or duel on her behalf. He was still good with his blade and more than capable in a fight, but his game was war, and his duels were usually on the battlefield or during his youth when he was still learning how not to push people's buttons.\n\n\"I appreciate your magnanimity in allowing me the display. I have endeavored during my time in the city to leave behind the trappings of battle which have clothed me for many years. It feels as though since the Lion Unicorn War of the Plains some 8 years ago, that my life has truly been dominated by the 4 seasons of a bushi: Spring time the season of Sowing, Summer the season of War, Fall the season of Harvest, and Winter court the season of Politics. While I may have been sent here due to volatility of what had transpired, I hope to be a stabilizing force within the city.\"\n\nHis cadence had been slightly slower than usual. Politics were not his game, nor was it his place to speak for the clan as it was Himiko's, but he would be surprised of the presence of a Lion Taisa had not unnerved people in the city. It was probably not a precedent that was commonly accompanied without steel and soldiers and death. The lion were an unstoppable force on the battlefield. By the works he had read at the war college, the lion represented a full quarter of the empire's bushi, even including the Unicorn clan. They were perhaps the only of the Great Clans who could wage war in multiple theaters at the same time and still win both. But what would become of the city here? First, they needed allies. Then, information. What would the Phoenix be?"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Of course, Akodo-san, we are grateful for what you have willingly shared. I believe I speak for all the Phoenix that we hope your presence will add to efforts to stabilize and allay concerns for the future of the city.\" Iemon considered, thoughtfully. *Certainly, these Lions are of a more reasonable mindset than the previous ambassador and her aide.*\n\nIt was hard to forget that initial first impression. Presenting an ornate anti-cavalry sword to the Scorpion in front of the Unicorn had all but declared their allegiance outright, before the rest of the scandal had come to light with the previous governor. If these Lions demonstrated more restraint, they might be another piece of the puzzle needed to settle the city.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had observed the interaction between Akodo and the Phoenix. She was there but she did not join them. After all she did not have an opinion on such matters and wished to speak none. The gold and blue eye glanced over to Akodo. Hearing him speak about stability like that made her show a fragile smile. She had not believed in such thing, not today. \n\n*\"What may those concerns be?\"* The Kitsu suddenly asked. Her voice was piercing either a conversation or silence. Not that it had mattered since she was direct as usual. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"At this time, it is unsure who shall be left with control of Ryoko Owari Toshi. With the city being in the midst of Scorpion lands, and having been a Scorpion holding for so many years, there is a difficulty in it actually changing hands in the first place. Meanwhile, the Unicorn claim it as part of their ancestral holdings. Two claims, one city. It tends to lead to conflict. Something Asako-san and I have endeavored to keep clear of by considering a different path forward.\" \n\nHe leaves a gap for Sanumo to jump in with further information should the Lion seem curious. He didn't want to necessarily overstep and present the plan earlier than he was ready to share, unlike in their meeting with the Unicorn. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo's eyes moved back and forth between Iemon and Himiko. It was a good, cutting question she asked about a point he was not going to contest, but Iemon's answer laid the path to something truly interesting. He wasn't sure what Himiko's mind was on the subject, but he wanted to know. Thankfully he didn't scoff audibly at the mention of Unicorn and ancestral holdings. The Lion had tended their lands for generations only to have it taken, so he had no respect for Unicorn claims of ancestral holdings.\n\n\"Surely the city would benefit every clan through its neutrality, much the City of the Rich Frog which straddles the lands of Lion, Unicorn, and Dragon, and it too has an Imperial Magistrate. The only one not benefitted by this arrangement would be the greedy who wish all of the city's income to themselves.\""
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Chief among our concerns is maintaining the peace. So long as the city is directly under imperial stewardship, this is much easier to do. Were it to stay so, I concur that it would be advantageous for most involved. However, that is not to be the case; the Winter Court will determine which clan claims it for their own. »\n\nHe visibly weighs his next words before speaking, « Tell me, honorable Lions. If you can achieve something without resorting to war, should you? As the foremost authority on such things in all of Rokugan, I imagine you have had much discussion on this topic over the centuries. »\n\n*When meeting with the Unicorn, we broached a delicate topic rather quickly. It worked out, but a gentler touch seems warranted here. Let us see what they are about...*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo looked to Himiko, who have him a slight nod of assent for him to respond, and so he turned to the legendary Phoenix spymaster.\n\n\"I have been to war. I had raided and been raided on every boarder the Lion clan has. What we take in summer is returned in Winter. Bargaining chips at the capital.\" \n\nAkodo spoke slowly, measuring each word to try and get his meaning across.\n\n\"I am also a Gardener. My gardens are built slowly, from the ground up, with labor and a hope for something that will outlive me.\"\n\nHis earthen brown eyes showed flecks of mossy green in them as he looked at the two Phoenix across from them.\n\n\"I value the lives of my men, and the homes and fields of heimin. It takes much longer to replant fields that were burned down in war, or to mourn, then raise and train more sons and daughters. So yes, in my experience, something that can be achieved without war is harder and takes much labor and planning, but will achieve results that produce beauty that will outlive us.\""
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko's golden and blue eye now represented the animal she was assigned to. A lion. Especially the golden one as she had made direct eye contact with the Phoenix' in the room. Listening to her commander she could not deny his credibility. He had much more knowledge of war, and she was raised in the way of the Phoenix. Therefore her feelings were mixed. She had agreed. Yet the lion within her had roared. \n\n*\"But when war is necessary, we will not hesitate to do what is honorable. That does not include burning down gardens or grounds of heimin.\"* It was not that the girl wanted to frighten them. She wanted to let them know to not underestimate her. \n\n*\"But if no war is necessary, who are we to play with the lives of others.\"* \n\nThe girl stated. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Himiko's words struck him with intensity. It seemed she was one to use fewer words and throw the weight of the ones she had held back behind them. He stood a bit straighter at the firmness with which she spoke.\n\n« Himiko-sama. Akodo-sama. It brings me no small amount of joy to hear this. » He spared a glance to his ambassador and, receiving no indication to stop, carried on.\n\n« We find ourselves in a precarious situation. From a historical perspective, no clan has ever managed to keep this city from the Scorpion for long. It seems then to be folly to try and do so again when so many have failed before us. »\n\nHe abruptly switched tactics. « It is true that the Lion also have a claim to this city, is it not? Alongside those of the Unicorn and Scorpion. And yet you did not press it while the city was still under Scorpion control. Might I ask why that is? »\n\n*If the Lion have no interest in governance, now is their chance to tell us before Amaterasu's gaze unveils our plans.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "There was one other Iemon would look to press, but only after Sanumo's switched tactic of questioning was answered. *Better to allow that momentum shift first, and then back to the other point.*\n\n\"Granted, of course, there was a good deal of impending hostilities that the previous ambassador had seemed more concerned with. But this is a question that has occurred to me as well. After all, laboring in another's garden is much different than laboring in one's own.\" He kept his tone even, backing up the honest inquiry that Sanumo had led with.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Yet Himiko was not bothered by any of it. Perhaps not even caught of guard as even the phoenix had been wanting the power. Not even surprised a bit. She smiled at the Shiba trying to redirect the conversation in front of her. Inside she was scrunching her nose. \n\n*\"I don't think that those hostilities have changed.\"* Himiko stated. *\"The beings that we are supposed to be 'hostile' to have shifted.\"* Himiko tilted her head sidewards. \n\n*\"As for our claim to this city. Alike every other clan we wish only the best for Rokugan. If that starts with this city so shall it be. If the claim was pressed this city would be much worse state then we would attempt to revive it in right now. No need to make something unstable tumble down, am I right?\"* \n\nThe child was calm. Yet she radiated the energy of her ancestors alongside her. She was not going to share details. Why would she? Even the phoenix had something up their sleeves. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo listened to the words of the Phoenix and Himiko, following along in what they were saying, but losing track when it came to talks of claims and the previous works of others. He was still not fully up to date on the recent history of the city, and without faces to put to names, he feared it would be some time yet. He knew his orders, but would leave the political maneuvering to Himiko, as she was much more skilled at it than he was.\n\n\"The city remaining stable seems to be in the best interests of both the city, the Empire, and the Lion clan. Perhaps a bit more permanency in the leadership of the city would aid that endevor. The blood of war burns hot in the veins, but the conflict in this city seems... Colder.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"What if...\" Iemon gives a quick look to Sanumo, as if to preface what he is about to say. \"What if it were a shared garden, if you pardon my sticking to the analogy? Each party responsible for the yield, as well as for, well, weeding, cultivating, and encouraging their partners to share the load?\"\n\nHe pauses, letting the idea land before moving forward. \"The Phoenix perspective is similar to both of yours, Kitsu-sama and Akodo-san. Stability is something to be prized, to be sure. Fighting over ownership of the city would only serve to create further chaos, fostering more instability. The people look to samurai as an example already. What if we were to demonstrate that cooperation in the name of peace and the good of the Empire was more than an ideal, but an attainable goal? That is the course that we propose.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko then turned to Shiba and was only granted a gut feeling. Something heart wrenching was inside of her and she wished to know if he knew. But that were personal matters. Ones that should not be leading. *\"A shared garden could work. But let me ask you Shiba-sama. How much trust are you willing to put on the table? How much of yourself are you willing to fall into others hands? History and future have proven that people are greedy for power, not for peace. After all what is peace but a boredom.\"* Himiko stated. This was not her perspective. \n\n*\"If it was not in human nature to resort to violence when things are out of reach, we would not be in this position.\"* The child was no longer. This was a pained being that saw the painful reality of life. \n\n*\"If cooperation is something you wish. I will consider. But please, I warn you, do not be gullible. Do not let your personal longing of peace get in your perspective of realism. You often will find your allies as enemies. Once more as history has proven.\"*\n\nThe girl brushed away her hairs. A sweeping motion over the floor followed. But there was no Ilu. A pause of realisation hit her. This made her hand form a fist and retract. \n\n*\"Please enlighten me over the ideas of cooperation. I wish to learn.\"* Himiko spoke in a more calm manner. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo offered a brief bow. « Apologies, Kitsu-sama. We have been tip-toeing around the topic and I believe we may be leaving just enough room for interpretation as to nearly unmake ourselves. Please, allow me to clarify. »\n\n« Shiba-sama and I wish to bring above a tripartite governance of the city. Specifically between your clan, the Unicorn, and the Scorpion. This would allow each of you to satisfy your claims to the city, albeit at less than complete ownership. The Lion and Unicorn stand to gain a third of the city without spilling any blood and the Scorpion can reclaim a third of what they lost in a similar fashion. »\n\nKnowing how brash and foolhardy such a plan could seem, he held up a hand to temporarily forestall objection. « We know such an arrangement would need many provisions, safeguards, and other measures to make the peace as sustainable as possible. Were this plan not so young, we might already have those to discuss. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo tried his best to school his features. He had guessed as much from the words of the Ambassador, but not *This* Specific outcome. A triumvirate was an interesting idea, but there was almost no chance that the Unicorn, Lion, and Scorpion could come together, especially after what happened with the duel. It was quite frankly, laughable.\n\n\"You might as well just try for a council of Ambassadors to run the city, at least then there are pieces on the board to play.\" He made the suggestion as a throw away to illustrate how ridiculous the idea was.\n\n\"Normally a 3 way balance of power is great, because the two weaker sides can team up on the stronger, however you need relatively equal players. Right now the power balance is all wrong. Even if the Unicorn would agree to this, I can't see a world where the Scorpion cooperate if the Lion and the Unicorn even remotely get along. But finally, the Scorpion and the Unicorn are just as likely to spite their own position to make the city go down in flames.\"\n\nThe Lion realized what he was doing, and promptly shut his mouth. His was council to give to Himiko, not to speak as if he knew the political layout better than the others speaking now."
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "And looks of death were shot at Akodo. He must fear every step now as the ambassador would be at his ankles. Alas that had seemed that way at first glance. But this was just her discomfort with not having Ilu by her side. \n\n*\"Well spoken Akodo-sama. When or if we have decided on a shared government it would be strange to assume the other clans will simply accept the fact that it would just be the three of us. Given our current history this is like locking up several apex predators in a cage and waiting till only one remains standing. Natural Selection one would speak of.\"* Himiko had resonated with Katsuhiro. \n\n*\"It is not that we refuse to cooperate, it is that we differ too much for this to end well. We seek no alliances in greed of power. We seek stability. Something that has been lost for a long while.\"* \n\nThe lion ambassador spoke. *\"I wish not to discourage your plans. But perhaps review them again. Propose us a new offer when it does not result in a war you are trying to prevent.\"* Himiko said. She was serious and it was tiring her out. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nods, patiently listening to the objections of the Lions. There were of course reasonable objections here, but some of them he had already considered and was prepared to address.\n\n\"Akodo-san, Kitsu-sama, you both raise excellent points, and I will attempt to address them somewhat. As Asako-san has said, this is still a plan in its infancy, give us a chance to let it grow and run.\n\n\"This cooperation would not presume there exists warm feelings amongst the ruling Clans. Quite the contrary, the tension between the three would be open, but much as the triangle is strong with its points held in tension, so too will the city be. We suggested the three Clans we did both for the sake of the claims to Ryoko Owari Toshi, as well as the most vested interest in active governance. I would not wish to overtly speak for others, but for the Phoenix Clan, and I presume our cousins the Crab as well, our concern rests on the city functioning without the disruption of conflict.\n\n\"It would be ignorant to assume goodwill of the Scorpion, of course, but there is still the unaddressed reality that history has shown us that *If they do not have a seat at the table, they will find a way to take it.* If they are at minimum participants, that gives at the very least a forestalling before they attempt to take everything back for themselves... And in that time, public opinion, and perhaps even the Will of Heaven may be swayed by the success stability and cooperation may achieve.\"\n\nTurning to the Lion ambassador, he continued. \"Kitsu-sama, with respect, things as they are now already place us all in this cage. If the active participants, or predators, are limited to three instead of the entire menagerie, that in turn reduces the chaos and bloodshed exponentially.\" \n\nHe pours tea for his guests and for Sanumo, a light meal of miso soup, rice, and roasted fish finally arriving after the servants had increased the portions for the arrivals.\n\n\"As you say, though, there are other specifics to consider. But I feel the best way to discover them is to sit down with the prospective parties and discuss things openly and amicably like we are doing now.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko then raised an eyebrow. Soon a more serious was displayed as she had placed her hands on her lap once more. She inhaled deeply before she spoke. It almost had sounded like she protested but instead she had tried to summarize it for herself. In the hopes she understood correctly. \n\n*\"You wish for a meeting of sorts? One with a representative of every clan. One where they describe their troubles and goals? To seek unity? So instead of not hearing eachother we will listen? Not that we shall agree with everything.\"* Her voice sounded like she was thinking. \n\n*\"Have you spoken about this to the other ambassadors? If so what were their responses?\"* The child questioned in a more serious voice. Watching the food being served on the table she sighed once more. Her stomach may have influenced her mood. \n\n*\"But the most important question that strikes my mind. What makes you think that this will not start outright war once more? After all the ties between clans are... Fragile.\"* The Kitsu seemed formal enough to wait for everyone to start feasting. But her stomach was clearly not having this. Growling in anger. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "While Himiko spoke, Akodo went ahead and took his first bite of food and sip of wine. Perhaps their hosts were waiting for them to start, but he hoped that perhaps by eating food, it would provide a slight distraction of nervous energy. He was, without looking at her, trying to read his Ambassador just as much as he was the two birds in front of him. She was showing a different face than he was expecting before this, but she seemed interested in what they had to say now.\n\n*As if a council would ever work. People need a reason to succeed as a group, but everyone at that table would be more interested in seeing the others fail.*\n\nToo many voices began to cancel each other out. If only there were clear lines of communication. Everyone knew in the Lion lands where they stood with one another, everyone had their rank and role.\n\n\"Is there no future where the Imperials remaining in the city as well?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« To date, Kitsu-sama, I have only been present in one other meeting where we brought this plan up. That was with Utaku Kazuko-sama and Doji Masanari-sama. The former brought up some initial concerns, but ultimately said she was willing to discuss this with the other clans. The latter was even moreso in favor, going so far as to say he would advocate for it to his own ambassador. »\n\nTaking a cue from Akodo, he paused to drink and sort his thoughts out.\n\n« We seek the meeting to be specifically between the three parties to be involved; your clan, the Unicorn, and Scorpion. Any others who happen to be in favor will lend weight to our proposal when brought before the governor, but are ultimately not necessary. »\n\n« I cannot say for sure that there is no possibility of the Imperials retaining direct governance of the city, Akodo-sama, but history tells us that such actions are few and far between. I could never fathom the emperor's intent, but it seems to me that there would be no sense in proclaiming that he will choose which clan will earn the city if he intended it to remain as it is. »\n\nHe looked at Iemon for a few seconds before dipping his head, « Ambassador-sama, I trust in your vision and wisdom to ease our guests' worries about outright war. »\n\nIt simply wouldn't do to get carried away and undermine Iemon by taking over the conversation.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon bows slightly in assent to Sanumo's illustration of the situation. \"Indeed, Asako-san. That is how I would have summarized how things stand at the moment.\"\n\nHe turned to Himiko. \"Kitsu-sama, you raise valid concerns. Our hope is that, despite the differing claims to the city, the three Clans we had mentioned would hold things in somewhat a point of tension, ideally looking to outshine the others. The non-ruling Clans, as expressed, would have their own interests in keeping the status quo: lack of disruption of trade, promotion of peace, and an open display of what we can accomplish through cooperation? All of these things are direct benefits that may come of this. Outright war immediately brings an end to these things, which would leave the aggressor publicly in a negative light, as well as potentially damaging their claim to the city. If the prosperity of the Empire through stewardship of the Emperor's lands is not the primary motivation of one of the established parties, perhaps they should not be on the council?\" \n\nHe calmly took a bite before turning to Katsuhiro. \"I would agree it would be presumptuous to assume there is no future with the Imperials remaining, but I can only seek to act off of what has been decreed by the Emperor. I can see there would be benefits to their remaining in power, to be sure, as it removes the power struggle for a overall supremacy entirely.\" Iemon conceded, taking a small thoughtful bite as he seemed to weigh the value of it. \"However, it may remain a point of friction between the three Clans who had their claims essentially denied by Imperial Decree.\" *Not to mention, it may be a cause of uniting the three Clans against the Will of the Emperor.* He thought, taking a sip of tea. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had felt her hunger taking the best of her. Not during this conversation but in general as her guts and stomach had been screaming for something to eat. Thank the kami it had not been external. So much like Katsuhiro besides her she decided to take a bite before starting the politics again. *\"So if I understand correctly you want us to get a collective purpose? May it be for different motives or reasoning that does not matter as long as we agree to not outright stab each other in the back?\"* Himiko tried to clarify this. It was clear that she had not been convinced yet but took it into consideration. \n\nShe had left room for silence and consideration as a quick glance to Katsuhiro spoke book pages. There was another matter she wished to discuss. So in honor of the elephant in her room, this time the grudges she held, she decided to speak. \n\n*\"Ambassador-sama. There is something I wish to discuss about the past. I am uncertain if you are aware but I feel that if this is not spoken about, it will keep me with unnecessary grudge. I wish to learn. Something about a stolen child.\"* Himiko spoke. Hoping that this would ring a bell with the ambassador. Also understanding that these matters should stick between only the two of them. Therefore she remained cryptic. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo raised an eyebrow at Kitsu's cryptic words. *A stolen child?* He wasn't sure why she wanted to speak with the Ambassador about that, but he suddenly recalled the words she had shared with him before the meeting, and so he did not comment on the Ambassador's request. Instead he turned his attention to the food that was brought out and the tea, while he let his mind reflect on the issue that the Phoenix had raised. A tripartite leadership of the city between the Unicorn, Scorpion, and Lion. Even in such an arrangement, the Scorpion had the upper hand. Without clearly patrolled access to both Lion and Unicorn lands, they were solidly in Scorpion clan territory, on the line between Sochi and Shosuro territories. The fact that the City of the Rich Frog was Imperial governed but a city as important as Ryoko Owari Toshi was not seemed strange to Akodo. Kitsu and Akodo's goals in the city were stability and an end to the escalation of tensions, but if the Governor was going to choose a clan to be in charge of the city at Winter Court, then that would only raise the stakes. How many competing bids were there? *We need more information*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Nodding in understanding as she sorted her thoughts out, Sanumo was happy to see the Lions taking a second look at the idea now that it had been made a bit more clear.\n\nClarity wouldn't stop them from potentially refusing, but it would at least make the decision well-considered.\n\nIt would seem that he was not the only one partial to the tactic of conversational whiplash, as Himiko's mention of a stolen child caught him completely off-guard. He studiously poked at his food and pretended that everything was as expected.\n\n*If we're about to receive more news of our kin making grave mistakes at the worst moment, I'm not sure the fortunes can hold me accountable for my actions.*\n\nHe realized he'd been gripping his chopsticks too tightly and made a conscious effort to stop. Not wanting to interject since Himiko had addressed Iemon specifically, he chanced a glance to Katsuhiro and saw him engaged in much the same behavior.\n\n*I wonder if he's just as perplexed as I am right now... Surely they discussed bringing up such a peculiar topic beforehand.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon gave a slow blink, and sipped from his tea. \"*Stolen?* If there is something I can do to assist with such a matter, it would only be right and just to see a wrong of such magnitude corrected.\" He wondered for a moment what she meant in particular with this. *The only thing that sounds remotely like this is the adoption of Ishiken into the Isawa, but... Amongst samurai that is something negotiated for properly. For non-samurai...*\n\nHis eyes grew a small look of understanding as he began to put together where he thought this was coming from. \"Perhaps this may be a conversation best held in private?\" He could tell her desire to keep the contents of such a conversation relatively contained by the way she kept the initial question vague, and wanted to respect her wishes while still inquiring further on the matter. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had looked at Iemon. He knew something. He knew something and was cowering behind secrets. A disappointed look grew upon her face. Then she inhaled. *\"Akodo-sama. Even though it is unusual. Please excuse me and Shiba-sama. I wish to discuss this matter directly as they influence my opinion. I apologize, I must not owe a Bias and do what is best for our clan. But the fog of this matter needs to be cleared before I can judge.\"* She had glanced over to her right hand. A stern look. One that was not asking, one that was commanding. The young lion had shown herself to be more mature than one would previously assume. \n\n*\"Asako-sama. Would you please forgive my behavior?\"* The small Kitsu swiftly managed to stand before bowing down deeply to the two of them. *\"Shiba-sama. Would there be a place more private nearby?\"* The lion questioned. Her tone had been more monotone and her face was stoic. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon nodded. \"Yes, right this way. We can go more towards the center of the garden and remain out of earshot.\" He rises, looking to make sure there were no servants tending the garden at this time to ensure privacy. \n\n\"Asako-san, Akodo-san, if you would be so kind to remain here, we should be back in short order.\" He gestures towards one of the small stone decorative paths leading straight into the garden, which would allow them to remain in view, but outside of normal hearing.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo watched as the two walked away, and then turned to Asako, doing his best to drag his train of thought to diversionary conversations. This had certainly not gone the way he had expected it to go, though he knew that politics might eventually come into it. It was simply the nature of having two ambassadors at the same table.\n\n\"Ah, Asako-san, I would hate to impose on your already very busy schedule, but as you have shown yourself to be exceptionally skilled and knowledgeable in the way of the city, I was wondering if you might give me the honor of your aid. My Karo recently arrived in the city, and I would appreciate it if you could share with him some of your knowledge of the layout of the city its bureaucracy. He is a very sharp young man and would undoubtedly figure this out on his own, but your guidance would certainly help him get up to speed faster.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo briefly bowed to Himiko as she apologized. « Think nothing of it. I can see it is not without purpose. »\n\nHe nodded in acknowledgement to Iemon's words and then turned to regard Katsuhiro, now his only company, fully.\n\n« That should be workable. I'll need to check on a few things to figure out when I could work such a meeting in, but I'm confident I can figure something out. »\n\n*A convenient way to make connections with another Karo. How fortuitous.*\n\nHe was curious to see what else the Lion might fill the silence with in the absence of their betters. He'd already made clear that his leadership in the city, while capable, all seemed to be getting their feet under them.\n\nWere the Phoenix to get interlinked with the new regime as it established itself, those ties would be firm and long-lasting.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"I appreciate whatever aid you can give.\"\n\nHe took a sip, trying and failing to not glance occationally at Himiko and Iemon over in the distance. He was not overly curious about what they were discussing, nor that Iemon would try anything. If anything he was more concerned with what Himiko might do given the wrong response. While they were occasionally referred to as the peace lions for the mere fact that they didn't give the Scorpion governor an anti-calavry sword, Himiko was every bit the Lion of her ancestors.\n\n\"I am not sure if I mentioned this before, Asako-san, but I am currently building a study garden around the Ambassador's meeting room. My hope is that when you pull back the shoji panels on all 3 sides of the meeting room you will be surrounded by my beautiful garden.\" He chuckled softly, taking a sip of his drink to show humility at calling his incomplete pile of dirt a beautiful garden, \"However the thought came to me that to represent the peace and stability we are after, I would like to have something in the garden that held a positive symbolic meaning for each clan. Do you know of a flower, or perhaps a sculpture I could place in the garden what would have meaning for any Phoenix we were to meet?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had followed Shiba Iemon into the garden. Then she seemed a bit more stern. Making her hands into fists as if she were about to throw a punch or a tantrum. She had done none of that. \n\n*\"You are aware of the Isawa. The Ishiken? Right? You know their process, right?\"* Himiko questioned. Of course he knew but she had to know. She had to hear it from him. \n\n*\"You are aware that they do not 'peacefully' adopt Ishiken from other clans.\"* Himiko gestured at the peaceful. \n\n*\"Are you aware that I once was Phoenix?\"* The Kitsu kept going with the questions. Flooding them over the poor man in front of them. \n\n*\"Did you know?\"* She seemed almost saddened but mostly angered. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon weathered the storm of questions stoically, his hands folded in front of him, waiting for them to stop. \n\n\"I know that non-samurai who show the aptitude for the Void are adopted into the Isawa family. Children of samurai who show such abilities are sought out and negotiations are meant to be done to secure their adoption as well. Such things are meant to be done peacefully, though there are of course many things that are not done as they are meant to. Not that it is any excuse.\" He adds, holding up a finger and adding that last sentence before continuing, anticipating the push back of that response. \"I am also aware that the choice essentially boils down to a question of either the child in question receiving the necessary training, being sealed entirely from the Void, or being lost to it, often harming those around them in the process. The choice between the first two is made by the Masters of the Ishiken, but that is where my knowledge ends.\"\n\nHe pauses, taking a breath. \"I was not aware that you were once a Phoenix, no. I assume, from your line of questioning, that this is what happened to you?\" He asks softly, gently probing the subject. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko nodded her head in silence. Her fists no longer tensed and her hands became normal again. She remained silent for a long time after that question. She had only stared at her feet as she did not dare to look the phoenix in the eye. After all she had dropped the false accusation of him being even remotely connected to her past. Then she spoke. Looking up with her gold and blue eyes. *\"Yes. I was taken after my family was well... Lost.\"* Himiko had no memory on how her parents actually died. *\"I married back into the lion.\"* The Kitsu explained how she was a Kitsu and now an Isawa. \n\n*\"Do you understand that this affects my decision making? Or well. Would've.\"* The girl questioned. Then she bowed down. \n\n*\"Please forgive me for my immaturity.\"* She begged. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "He returned the bow instantly, mirroring hers. \"There is nothing to forgive, Kitsu-sama. You had a... A personal tragedy that could have painted all of our interactions here in a negative light. Instead of allowing it to do so, you confronted the problem head-on, and have allowed us both to display Sincerity to one another. I am glad to know the quality of ambassador that the Lion have sent here.\" \n\nIemon would time his rise with hers. \"What this does make me question is how much your superiors knew of your past. Whether they anticipated antagonism with the Phoenix or some other motive.\"\n\nHe pauses to allow her to reply, should she know more on that, before continuing. \"One way or the other, I am perfectly content to keep this conversation between us, unless... You perhaps would like to delve into the events that led to your family being lost?\" Again, a gentleness to the question, not wanting to force one way or the other, but rather to make it clear that he would offer aid in seeking such knowledge, should she wish it. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*Something of positive symbolism, hm? And one that would apply to the clan at large, rather than just to my own sensibilities...*\n\n« A garden... » he idly rubbed his chin. He mumbled to himself as he considered what might satisfy his desire both for symbolism and an emphasis on peace.\n\n*While it stings to think about it, the symbolism fits exactly what Akodo-sama is after.*\n\n« I would urge you to commission a sculpture of Shiba kneeling to Isawa. While it might seem at first glance to be unrelated, it is this display of humility and the selflessness of the promise he gave that, in part, ensured the preservation of the empire. Honoring that memory could do you no wrong. »\n\n« Were I more of a skilled sculptor, I would offer to make such a piece myself. » Left unsaid was that he was worried he might do a disservice to the scene at hand; some evidence of less-than-expertise marring the art and the message behind it.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo set down a piece of food and then took a sip of tea to clear his mouth before speaking as he looked up at Sanumo with a bit of surprise. He had not know the man was an artist as well. The Phoenix Spymaster was a man of many talents.\n\n\"I did not know you were a sculptor, Asako-san.\" Katsuhiro glanced around them, hoping to spot some pieces that he might attribute to the man. \"Are there any examples of your work here?\"\n\nThe Lion then returned his focus to the man before him, \"I am sure you are merely being modest, who better to make the piece than a Phoenix themselves? Why, it would make even greater meaning to the work.\" Katsuhiro tapped his chin in thought, \"That is an interesting piece to be a symbol of your clan. I am familiar with the story, but I did not know it had such sentimental value to your whole clan. I can see why perhaps an Isawa Ambassador would enjoy the site of it, but I take you at your word that Shiba-sama might feel it represented the honor of his ancestors and their sacred oaths.\" He nodded, as if talking himself into it.\n\n\"I appreciate your help with my project. I hope that some day when it is ready to be shown, I might invite you over to enjoy it.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "*\"I do not recall the moments I lost my family.\"* Himiko spoke. It hadn't pained her nor bothered her. At least that is what the small Kitsu seemed to show. She sighed. \n\n*\"As for my superiors. All they know is that I married a Matsu after being orphaned. My time in between has been a blank canvas for them to fill in. Unless the Phoenix has spoken to them. But I am unaware of this.\"* The Kitsu felt a clear relief. One grudge is gone. One road has opened. \n\n*\"Please. Keep it between us. I wish to sort things from the past but I feel like war will break out between me and my clan if the word spreads. \"* Himiko stated with concern and a clear mind. She wished for nobody else to know. \n\n*\"I wished to share this with you. Since after all I have to return to the Phoenix every blue moon. To see if I'm still in check.\"* The girl smiled. \n\n*\"Thank you for your kindness Shiba-sama.\"* \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"As you say, then, this will remain between us.\" Iemon replies simply, considering the matter closed for the time being. \"No need for thanks, Kitsu-sama, I am happy to offer what I can.\" He gestures, offering to let her lead back to their companions. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« No, sadly. I left all of my pieces in Phoenix lands and I haven't had much time or cause to keep up with the hobby. »\n\nHe didn't relish the idea of making a piece that featured Isawa, the point of origin for so much headache in his life, but he couldn't deny that it would be a suitable way to hone his skills and further diplomacy with the Lion.\n\nHe had mirrored Katsuhiro's gaze around the room, taking in much of the decoration that he took for granted in his day-to-day life.\n\n*Yes, this will be a worthy pursuit.*\n\n« If you are willing to overlook my skill, which I must emphasize again is still developing, then I am willing to make this piece for you. I cannot promise haste; only results. I'm happy to assist with such a well-intentioned endeavor. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro bowed to Sanumo deeply, \"I could easily commission a craftsman if it is too large a burden on your time, Asako-san, but it will mean much more to me personally, and to both our clans, if this were made by you. If the garden and the statue is to be a symbol of friendship, then being made as a symbol of our friendship imbues it with an essence that would be missing if made by other hands. However, if you wish to reflect further on the specific form of this statue, then I wish to leave the artistic creativity in your hands.\"\n\nAs Akodo rose from his bow, he noticed that the Ambassadors were returning and seemed to have dispelled the tension Himiko had carried with her.\n\n\"Ah, Kitsu-sama, Shiba-sama, Asako-san and I were just discussing the gardens I am working on for the embassy. \"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko seemed calm. A bit more relieved as she nodded towards Katsuhiro. A glimpse of a smile formed on her face as she seemed happy he was finding a conversation this easy. \n\n*\"Akodo-sama is remarkable at transforming our poor garden into something honorable. Something gorgeous.\"* Himiko complimented him. She took place at the table again and continued to eat. \n\n*\"Once more I apologize. This food is really nice and I should probably not let it sit for this long for it to go stale.\"* The Kitsu joked a bit. A lot less serious than she had displayed herself as. A lot less tense. Still sharp as ever as her keen eyes followed all the movements the people within the room made. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Gardens? That sounds like a wonderful undertaking. The previous Phoenix ambassadors have been kind enough to leave us our current grounds, so I'm afraid my input will be of quite minimal value on that front.\" Iemon admitted with a rueful grin. He too seemed more at ease after the walk and talk. He offered tea to the rest of the table, and ate a pickled vegetable after retaking his seat.\n\n\"We were also fortunate to have such an excellent staff inherited here. Good food, and a well-tended garden can make the trials of the day-to-day much more bearable. I applaud your efforts, and look forward to paying a visit to see how well it is implemented.\" He says, a hopeful gleam in his eyes at the prospect of more friendly meetings in the future, and further signs of willing cooperation between the Great Clans. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "It took some effort not to sigh heavily as Katsuhiro bowed to him and made clear exactly the weight that such participation would hold. No matter Sanumo's reservations on the matter, it was too good of an opportunity to pass up.\n\n« As you wish, Akodo Katsuhiro-sama. You'll have your statue by my hands one way or another. I'll see about making arrangements to work on the piece from time-to-time on-site. Perhaps that will provide suitable opportunity for that talk you requested I have with your Karo. »\n\nAt that the ambassadors returned, their previous tension drained away, and began to stir up conversation again in earnest.\n\n« I'm very much looking forward to seeing his results so far, Kitsu-sama - especially with such high praise from one such as yourself. I trust that I will be impressed! » \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Akodo bowed deeply to hide his facial expressions at all the praise for his incomplete, mostly just a mess, garden. It would be years before it grew in enough for his vision to be realized, but it was part of what he loved about the art. It would outlive him in a way that would take generations to recognize its full beauty. Perhaps the symbolism would be immediately useful, and the koi pond would be stocked, but the moss would be years before it covered the rocks as he wished, and even longer before the stays could be removed from the trees they sought to shape.\n\n\"You all honor me too greatly. There is still much left to do before even I can begin to guess if it is worthy of praise. My hope is that some day, Kitsu-sama's children and grand children will be able play beneath its boughs, and that the meetings held there will be in lieu of bloodshed. A place of peace and reflection that will long outlive petty boarder squabbles and territorial disputes.\"\n\nKatsuhiro knew that the wars he waged in summer were bartered away in winter, and that the battles between the clans were tools to keep the right hand of the emperor sharp, rather than letting it grow atrophied through disuse. The battles had a purpose, and they brought honor to himself and his ancestors and the Kami-Akodo in whose name he fought, but the plains were covered in the ashes of soldiers whose blood bought nothing but honor. Who died taking ground that courtiers gave away. Sometimes it bought food for the winter to get them through famine, sometimes it bought keeps and land that they had lost. But the Violence behind Courtliness city was a burned out husk that had changed hands so often no one wanted to live in the city. Perhaps the day would come when battles were fought over this city the same way, or like the City of the Rich Frog, but Akodo wanted something that Lions would be able to see and appreciate, to see his hand at work, and war would not be that thing.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had smiled at Katsuhiro. Then back to Asako as another smile grew. This one more polite. She continued to eat. There were no politics to be spoken about, at least not during the dinner. Or well, until Himiko had finished up her food and watched all unfold. It was no longer awkward but the Kitsu still felt a bit uncomfortable being around somewhere where Ilu had not been. Then she broke the ice. \n\n*\"I am curious about your plans Shiba-sama. I doubt not that they will be great, yet I still have to consider what to do. Please take no offense in this, but the situation within these walls has been rather complicated for me. I wish not for retribution to die down, yet as you said it perfectly, there is no need for bloodshed. Things are tense, that is something I have to admit.\"* Himiko paused for a moment to eye the two phoenix in front of her. She bore a kind stature yet underneath one of a leader. One of a person that knew what she was doing. One that had been in doubt if her decisions were the correct one. \n\n*\"So to conclude. I do not yet agree with your plans because I need more time to look into them. But you can have the trust in me and in my clan that we will prevent acts of war and unwanted bloodshed.\"* Himiko confirmed. Hoping she has done the right thing. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"No offense is taken, Kitsu-sama. It is a lot to ask, and not something either of us would expect you to simply commit to off-handedly. That you are willing to consider it is more than enough, and your assistance in keeping the peace will undoubtedly be invaluable.\" Iemon says, bowing, then finishing his tea. \"Thank you.\"\n\nEven if it was not an overt declaration of alliance, this was still a positive step for the future of the city as a whole.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*Certainly a better outcome than we could have expected.*\n\n\"I echo the ambassador's feelings on the matter. Ultimately, regardless of whether you do or don't come to agree with this plan, we are pleased to see another clan dedicated to keeping the peace and stability of the city intact.\"\n\nBack home, Sanumo hadn't had much, if any, cause to interact with the Lion. They'd proven much more temperate and reason-driven than he'd been led to believe.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "Katsuhiro took a sip of tea to wash down the last of the food he had eaten, listening to those who had a better way with words discuss the fate of the city over food. In spite of the history that Himiko had with the Iemon, he was glad to see that things were proceeding better. He had liked the two men thus far, feeling a bit of kindred spirit with both them.\n\n\"I am glad to see we have allies in keeping the Emperor's peace in this city. I do not know if either of you have been to Toshi Ranbo, but with all the fighting over the city it is... Difficult... For the empire to prosper there. While I have... Reservations... About some of the city's trade, crossroads such as these, which allow the clans a chance to meet and interact with one another peacefully are important. Stability benefits everyone, especially the orderly conduct and implimentation of the emperor's laws.\"\n\nIt was about as diplomatic as he could be, trying to say that he wanted the businesses here to be brought to the light so that they could enrich the empire rather than Cartel leaders and the Scorpion clan, and his desire to see the criminal element brought to justice.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "Himiko had remained silent in this matter. Smiling at the two Phoenix for a moment before continuing to eat. She would brush back her hairs a bit to make sure they wouldn't fall into her food. \n\n*\"Are there other clans opposed to being peaceful? Thinking that there is no other option than to fight?\"* Himiko directly questioned. She was curious. After all it was rather, well, somewhat nice and peaceful right now. Or at least she assumed so. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Apart from the issues of the previous governor, nothing overt has reached my ears, but I also feel that's partly due to Imperial oversight. Once that is withdrawn, I wonder how soon issues will arise?\" Iemon answered, finishing the last remnants of his meal and setting his chopsticks aside. \n\n\"The best opportunity for longer-lasting peace is to attempt to set the framework up now, before we have reached that tipping point. Wait too long, and it will be too tempting to aim for the short term gain rather than longer term prosperity.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He nodded along with Iemon « It is easier to tend your garden when you have no need to fear falling trees. »\n\nHe felt confident enough in the intelligence of those alongside him that he didn't feel the need to clarify. Were he speaking to a clan other than Lions, he may've doubted the veracity of their desire for peace. However, they'd never been shy about making their hunger for conflict known in the past. And if you couldn't take a Lion's words at face value, whose could you?\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "westquester",
"message": "\"I agree, setting up a framework sooner, rather than when the prize is within reach and all have dreams of snatching it, the better. It is difficult to trust a fair weather friend, but if you work towards the successful goal from the start, you build trust and forge allies in the crucible. Nothing builds bonds faster on the battlefield than when you are shoulder to shoulder with someone, and you fight for your lives together. You may not know each other's names in the mud, but you will be family by the end of it.\" Katsuhiro took a bit of edamame and ate the seeds out of it.\n\n\"I am glad to hear that with the truth, overt conflict has been mostly stamped out, sans any punishment the Scorpion clan deservedly receive. Other than yourselves, do you have a feeling of which of the other delegations are *Most* Interested in a peaceful governance of the city?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "toedeledoki",
"message": "The chatter had continued. It was most important to keep it lighthearted with some seriousness as a side. That's what Himiko thought about this. After all this was the first meeting with the Phoenix. Things could change within a blink of the eye and being chained to a clan, even though mostly considered peaceful, would always be a burden. Alas once again Himiko's perspective. \n\nThe food had been glorious and if she ever got the chance of teaching herself how to cook, this would be the first meal she'd bring to life. But time passed too soon and duty called. After all the next meeting had been pre-scheduled before she even stood the chance to protest. Therefore she awaited the conversation, hoping for a moment of silence that would announce her leave. So when the conversation no longer held information about peace and more information about Katsuhiro's gardening. She had thanked the Phoenix for their politeness and hospitality. Leaving with the promise of meeting once again soon. As the decision would perhaps be made in their favor. \n\n||"
}
] | 209.5 | 16,249 |
254.052632 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "It is known that all men are not cast back into the mortal plane equal, some are born higher on the Celestial Order benefiting their deeds in their past and some are born lower for the same reason. \nSome are born fairer than others and some stronger, smarter and swifter, those that can speak to the kami and those who cannot.\nOne might say it is unfair for these men to blessings. Yet Heaven is known to be fair in all dealings, thus it is made so that the higher castes have their duties to chain themselves by and the lower castes have the worlds indifference and a simple life where they are mostly free of great consequences, provided they Heaven's Will of course.\nThe fair have vanity, the strong arrogance, the swift brushing past any blessing they get and the smart having their blessing kept out of their reach by their own good sense.\n\nNaoki turns around another corner yet to return to another street he has been in an hour ago.\nMany people would think it odd that he, who can remember every title in the 1st to 4th row of 3rd shelf of the 9th section of the Resplendent Wing of the Library at Kyuden Isawa, cannot find himself a way out of it.\nTo them he recounts that at a young age his uncle tried to remedy this by training his mind to remember every detail of a subject hence the good memory, yet it did nothing to cure his impaired sense of direction.\nNo matter what, somewhere along the way to his destination he would always be distracted by the scenery, so he could not help himself from settling down to paint it and forget his way, mishear a line when asking for directions and lose his way, or just simply forget a turn or two and end up off the way, but it is the self reflection on his very fate that always keeps himself from getting on track!\n\nNaoki turns around another corner and held back blasphemous curses, for he is once more back in the street where they sell shit.\nEver since he bid those merchants used as guides into the city farewell, a whole morning passed wasted wandering so Naoki decided to change from the travelling grab donned upon the undertaking this journey into the set of clothes he uses for tea ceremonies and other such formalities, to which he asked a pair of Lion and a group of Unicorn who crossed his path for the way to the embassy which they kindly pointed out. \nCome the midday he once again saw them once again but did not approach them out of embarrassment and the shame it would cause to fall upon the Phoenix in this city to have someone like him in their delegation.\nDespite everything he does not have ample cause to lament his life, remember that Heaven is fair in all of its dealings, and for better or worse the affection of the fire kami are nothing to scoff at.\nIn the past 10 generations there has been no shujenga in his family until him, now imagine the praise and thanks they shouted to Heaven once the Elemental Master of Fire called upon him.\n\nHe turns around another corner, the bustle of the after lunch crowd stirs up such a scenery to Naoki's listless eyes that with the dwindling charcoal he has left in his pack along one last leaf of paper he sets up his canvas and rests awhile to sketch out this view, one of the several he has packed away to present to the Ambassador and to ask of him paints to finish them with.\nAnother blessing he thank wholeheartedly from Heaven is the gift of being able to paint well, his little indulgence from the training and tests in Slumbering Thunder, by the fire kami no doubt.\nWho else besides Heaven itself does Naoki have to thank for this position he is in now, they do all he asks of them though often to such a uncontrollable degree, and is now bestowing to him bouts of creativity and potential which he has turned into his very own talent.\n\nHe eases down and lets his hand and the kami guide the charcoal to form shapes of the quickly crowding mass of people going to and fro in this City upon the canvas.\nSince he has changed from the travelling garb he often uses as a disguise, he has no choice but stay still and hope that his now formal attire might cause his kinsman to recognise him, the same style of rescue he has employed since he was young.\nThe day will soon pass into night and by that time Naoki knows he cannot discern what may happen by that time or guarantee his own safety.\nNor can Naoki guarantee the safety of any who wish harm upon him and the surrounding structure about them, such sentiments he putters and mutters about in his minds room so that his nerves ease back in the state which he can properly paint the scenery before him.\nSo Naoki continues his craft assured, the Phoenix nor any Clan for that matter would ever leave around a Tensai unnoticed, let alone a Fire Tensai."
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru has felt drawn to the market. That much was certain. The relationship he had with the water Kami had grown further since he had left his life of war behind. He still had duties to attend to, and superiors to report, but the less regimented existence outside of the Elemental Guard allowed more time to foster his spiritual connections. \n\nStaff in hand, he walked down the lane, his kimono a simple orange with the Isawa mon proudly emblazoned upon his chest, with a slight embellishment of blue thread around the elemental symbol of water to denote his skill as a tensai. \n\nThough nearing 40, he had maintained a slender and toned build, his steps naturally smooth as he maneuvered through the after lunch crowd. Not that many sought to crowd a Clan samurai, let alone a Shugenja, but he took a small measure of pride in minimizing the amount of space others had to give him as he eased his way past.\n\nHe noticed the younger man before the other had noticed him, as the young artist seemed absorbed in his work. A faint whisper from the water kami as of steam from a boiling pot confirmed to him *This* Was why they had beckoned him forth from the Embassy. \n\nHe approached, easily closing the distance through the crowd. \"Good afternoon, Cousin-san. I do not think we have met before. Are you new to this city?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "The sound of scratching made by the barely cohesive lump of charcoal in Naoki's hands drowns out all other noise as he finishes his latest proof of concept for his painting, in this moment he has submerged back within his minds room copying the multiple instances of subjects he has deigned to favour from whole moment when the lunch crowd first started.\n\nThat geisha he thinks would be nice to put in foreground that always gets peoples attention, just off to the left side so that prudes wont complain, and that mole and the rest of her attire would be nice to retain its just the rest of the face that has to go, Fair's face should do the trick but it would not do well with the scowling emotion she has right now, he thinks.\nAha! A flash of inspiration strikes him, I should pair her off with this fine muscled and handsome specimen of a merchant here, adjust his purse size and he will have an excuse of some extra coin to spend this fair evening and this fair woman would attract him to make it so, but its lunch right now not night so it would be rude to discuss business, lets give him Strong's face and make them a little loose and lecherous to give the impression that they will do business this night, and so pleased with this finishing motif and yet another excuse to throw shade at his senpai he drafts up the finishing touches to this new artwork.\n\n\"Good afternoon, Cousin-san. I do not think we have met before. Are you new to this city?\"\n\nNaoki is brought back from the room within startled, his rescue has arrived.\nHe has cracked the last remains of his charcoal and while rubbing his hands to clear it off the stains to make himself presentable he gazes at hopefully who would be his guide.\nA He ranging from late 30 to early 40s, ah his kinsmen found him at last, and a tensai to boot he notes, now here comes the tricky part about etiquette one he knows he is no good at, how must I address him?\nWell he is a fellow tensai, but he is older so...\n\n\"Good afternoon Cousin-dono, hai I believe have not and it is my first time in Ryoko Owari.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Ah, I see!\" Noboru tapped his staff on the ground lightly as he positioned himself adjacent to the younger man to be less of an obstacle to the crown around them. His eyes fluttered down to the charcoal sketch that had been worked on. \"Most impressive, I must say.\" The observation was out of basic politeness, rather than any expertise on his part.\n\n\"I am Isawa Noboru, and I am still somewhat new to this city myself. If you like, I can bring you to our Embassy so that you may present your travel papers.\"\n\nHis words, though acceptably polite, are perhaps more matter-of-fact than anything else. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Packing up his canvas and stowing away his bundle of paintings in his travelling pack was the least he could to make himself presentable to the Embassy gathered here and his fellow tensai, so far he has been successful in being polite and his choice of words were the right ones, he just needs to keep sticking to this for tomorrow and the days to come in his time here.\n\n\"Forgive me Cousin-dono for imposing on you on this matter, but I would wager without your help I would still be wandering these streets come tomorrow.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"If you hadn't asked for directions to the Embassy by then, it would likely not have been beneficial to your health to have remained outside wandering for that length of time.\" Noboru replied, gruffly. \n\n\"But it is no imposition. One of my spiritual exercises that I have undertaken with the Water Kami is to allow them to carry me like the tide. Today they have brought me to you.\" He began to lead the way away from the markets and towards the Embassy district.\n\n\"What duty brings you to Ryoko Owari Toshi?\" Despite the bustle of their surroundings, his voice carried easily, as of used to speaking over loud noises.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Please be assured Cousin-dono, a night spent outdoors would not trouble me so, however...\"\n\nThe shujenga falls behind the steps on his guide, still embroiled in debating on whether the silent omission of his disability had gone over his senior's head or that he had graciously paid it no mind, whichever it may be, what needs to be done currently is to head to the Embassy as fast as possible and be as courteous to his guide as possible as to say he had not wasted his guides time, and while he was at it gather some information about the city.\n\n\"... It is still a Scorpion city after all is it not, it would be a folly. \nAs for my duty, you have seen me at work, I have volunteered to make my way here after hearing my clans delegation were in need of some assistance with some certain subjects after some incidents had occurred.\""
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Well, it is *Technically* An Imperial city, some of the events that have intensified gaze of the Empire here also led to an Imperial governor in place of the Scorpion for the time being.\" Noboru stated, vague only due to it being a course of events that had occurred well before he had arrived.\n\n\"If you are here to assist in smoothing over some of the more recent happenings, then we are both here as part of our Clan's response. Another cousin of ours called down lightning within the bounds of the city, injuring a heimin girl as well as a prominent Unicorn. The shame of that allowed the Unicorn to push forward a request to reopen the question of if their practice of meishodo is heresy, as the Elemental Council had previously ruled. The fallout amongst the populace has... Left our esteem among the locals reduced, to say the least.\"\n\nThey quickly crossed the gates to the Embassy district, leaving the crowds behind. The paths here were well-maintained, and Noboru led the younger man along the path taking them around the grounds of a walking park. \"Almost there now, Isawa...?\" He let the question hang, lightly, as the younger man had not introduced himself yet. *Wouldn't be proper to bring someone I don't know the name of to the gates of our Embassy.*\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "\"Ah\" Naoki realised.\n\nThere it is, the long expected blunder in this conversation, not as bad as conversations before as this one can be remedied. According to his guide they are finally close to the Embassy which means there are only so few opportunities to slip up on his etiquette.\nNow about the incident, the rumours that have spread over to the lands of the Phoenix have certainly been exaggerated that is clear, merely giving an heimin and a Unicorn Osono-Wo's handshake would warrant a dozega, some exchange of useless niceties and goods. \nA damned shame that it happened in one of the most volatile places in the history of Rokugan and to a member of another clans peace delegation, they are even spared by the virtue of his kinsman control over the kami and they have the gall to claim reinbursement for this. \nYet even with this, he wagers those venerable members of the Elemental Council would not even lift a finger, they say it would be considered and when it has calmed down or a new issue presented itself they would pass it out of memory.\nAny mastermind of that incident should have considered framing his cousin of maho, that would stir them to action.\n\n\"Isawa Naoki, Noboru-dono and please be assured that I will give my all to remedy any ill done upon our name. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru gave a soft grunt, somewhere between amusement and acknowledgement. *Didn't need the kami to tell me this one does indeed have a fire in him.* He thinks to himself. \n\n\"Good. We have much to work for, and you certainly have the drive to do so, Naoki-kun. It is good that you have come here.\" \n\nThey finish the walk to the Phoenix embassy and stop at the gate. Noboru gives a quick nod to the guard. \"Inform Karo Asako-sama that we have a new Clanmate here to present his travel papers, and I will be with him in the meeting room overlooking the pond.\" Without any further pause, he proceeds in, ushering the younger man in. \n\nHe made quick turns in the embassy proper, bringing him directly inside the main building past the shrine and interior courtyard. \"There will be plenty of time to see the sights later, for now we should ensure we follow protocol.\" \n\nIronic, given that Noboru had sped off following the beckoning of the kami without bothering to bring his assigned Yojimbo with him. The Shiba had needed her rest, no reason to trouble her with his every movement. *The Fortunes know I can take care of myself quite handily, should the need arise.*\n\nThey opened to a small meeting room with a table, some calligraphy hung as decoration on the walls, and overlooking the small pond with shishi-odoshi, the sound rhythmic as it carried into the window.\n\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Over the next minutes, servants could be occasionally heard bustling to and fro through the halls. The Karo himself eventually opened the door, stepping into the room and to the side so the servants could bring in tea.\n\nSanumo was a young man possessed of a visible weariness normally attributed to those with more years under their obi. His dark, shoulder-length hair was kept at bay by a single loop of cord around his forehead. He gave a critical look over the other two samurai before bowing, his plain, earth-colored kimono gently brushing the floor in so doing.\n\n\"Isawa Noboru-san.\" He briefly acknowledged the agent of the Elemental Council as he crossed the space to the table and sat. Regarding the new arrival, he introduced himself more formally. \"Greetings, Isawa-sama. I require your name and your travel papers.\"\n\nThe Karo, it seemed, was all business - though he did begin to pour tea ||for the newcomer first and then for Noboru|| while the papers were produced.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Fussing over his travel pack and pack of canvases while taking his place at the offered seat and tea set, he manages to find his papers secured and presents them to his new supervisor. So far he has only gaffed once in his communication efforts today, yet the day is still young he reminds himself. \nBetter not slip up further in his show of etiquette and make a good first impression.\n\n\"Isawa Naoki, here to serve his clan Karo-sama \" Says Naoki presenting his papers.\n\nThat would be a proper greeting he thinks, a short show of humility and acknowledging aside from passing his gempukko and passing into the ranks of the vaunted tensai he has done no notable feats warranting the use of -sama, and even if he were to rudely interject that would be disrespecting his sensei's efforts in educating him.\nHe can't even take stock pride in his paintings, there was always someone better than him.\n \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru's eyes narrowed slightly, first at the more blatant needling of a lesser honorific than their newest Phoenix, but also at the tea poured for the younger man first. *He really must be trying to get a rise out of me.*\n\nHe corrected the slip in his composure, not wanting to give the Karo the satisfaction of openly displaying umbrage. He picked up his cup with a knowing look to Sanumo, making it clear this was something they would discuss later. He had yet to find out the full reasoning for the Karo's dislike, but he meant to find out before he had an improper outburst. *Which means I should endeavor to find out soon.* He thought grimly.\n\n\"It seems Isawa-kun is here as a further response to the recent happenings, with the hope of helping to smooth over some of the rough patches that have become apparent since, Asako-sama.\" His voice had a rote even tone, as one practiced in keeping up appearances but lacking practical application would have. \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Is that so? » He asked rhetorically, beginning to look through Naoki's travel papers. As he did so, he was fairly sure he caught some displeasure from Noboru, but he frankly couldn't be bothered to puzzle out why the agent of the Elemental Council would be upset with him; not with a matter being presently resolved. « Fortunate indeed. »\n\nThe papers themselves seemed sufficient, if sparse, and echoed what Noboru had said. They noted that the Tensai had past experience related to opium smuggling rings which, while useful, wasn't immediately applicable to their goals.\n\n*So what to do with him?*\n\n« Isawa Naoki-san, » he corrected his choice of honorific, now more sure of where he stood in relation to the new arrival, « the situation we are in is delicate and has many moving parts. What talents do you have and how do you think we might ply them to our advantage? »\n\nAn Isawa's opinions always had to be taken with a block of salt, but they would help him understand the general situation they found themselves in."
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "At the Karo's words, Naoki at once begins to gently unpack his small portfolio of canvases. Here in this city, is his chance to find a proper posting aside from shrine duties and odd missions. A chance that his name would be spoken of as a tensai of no note, to be remembered as someone and pass into the afterlife with no regrets and be amongst the honoured ones. \n\n\"I have heard tidings that our clan requires an artisan to ply their craft in this embassy so here I am, and here is my meagre assortment of drawings that I have made over the course of my journey Karo-sama. Though it may seem shoddy I assure you I can prove that these are mere echoes of what I can do with paint and a larger canvas.\"\n\nAnd here it is, the rows of unclaimed sprouting green left to be abandoned in the wayside, the bustling stream of traffic going to and fro at the gate of the city itself and his best one yet, the after-lunch crowd, all done with charcoal just as is or when he found the time for it, crushed finely and water coloured.\n\n\"Should these be deemed of no use, I will endeavour to follow any judgement you make of my presence in this city with full understanding and gratitude, on my honour.\""
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "With an unexpected reverence, Sanumo looked over each piece with a critical eye ||Lore: Art 3||. While not a painter himself, his time amongst artisans and their works lent him enough perspective to reasonably judge these pieces.\n\nHe was not found wanting. Though made in haste and with limited resources, they showed notable skill.\n\nAt last, he broke the silence, gently returning the last canvas. « You have not heard incorrectly. In such eventful times, tensions are high. The balm that a quality piece of art brings to the spirit is not to be underestimated. »\n\nThough he was skeptical of the man, if only for his status as an Isawa, he couldn't deny the talent on display. « I believe that, so long as you are careful how you tread, we will have much use for you in the coming days. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "y33t_kr13g",
"message": "Just do nothing shifty, and there may be a chance to show his quality, seems simple enough.\nWhat else waits for him and what works will he give form to now he wonders. \n\n\"My upmost gratidue Karo-sama, if you wish for it Karo-sama, choose any of those sketches and provide me paint and a suitable sized cancas I will set to work any piece you desire.\"\n\n||we done or anyone else want to post more?"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Noboru nodded in appreciation of the pieces displayed. *The fire Kami make their blessings known quite plainly in this young man's case.* Water gave him its own blessings, giving Noboru both adaptability and perceptiveness, but with a greater sensitivity to the ebb and flow of his own emotions. *Hopefully Fire's downsides are easily contained by this young man.*\n\n\"If I may suggest, the market scene that I had come across you working on would be ideal. I will, of course, bow to the Karo's wisdom, but a prosperous market scene in the city we all inhabit would be an excellent first full-fledged piece out of this set before us.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Perhaps of surprise to the older Isawa, Sanumo found himself nodding along. « I concur. Once I have made arrangements for your lodging here at the embassy, provide me with a list of everything you need to ply your craft. I will do my best to see it fulfilled in full. »\n\n« That said, there are some things you should know before you wander the city more freely... »\n\n||I'd like to end the scene here under the assumption that Noboru and Sanumo give Naoki a political briefing in-character. It would amount to the same content that Mai and I discussed with you in the Phoenix chat a little while back. Does that work for you?"
}
] | 207 | 4,827 |
220.966667 | 1776-07-04 | GuildPublicThread | [
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "The sun was just starting to reach its zenith in the sky when a samurai approached the embassy of the Phoenix clan. Garbed in simple and modest travelling clothes, he could've been mistaken for a ronin if not for the beautiful black haori he wore, one decorated with flowers in the hue of bright roaring flames. A straw hat hides his visage from the sun, tilted downwards as to shade his pale skin from the sunlight, save for silky black locks that nearly reach his waist in length. The tsuka of his daisho were prominent on his obi, his left hand casually propped on his katana.\n\nHe halted a few steps before the entrance to the embassy. Raising his head, the empty black eyes of Shiba Terumi beheld the embassy of his clan in the City of Lies. Truthfully, it wasn't the embassy that caught his gaze first, it was the ornate and solemn temple in front of it. It was typical of his clan, and the familiarity was welcoming after the long journey.\n\nWith a faint smile on his face, the young swordsman steps towards the entrance, ready to begin his duty and his new life in Ryoko Owari Toshi.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "A pair of ashigaru halted Terumi briefly as they inquired about what business this new face might have. After hearing his reply and skimming his travel papers, a call was made to a third ashigaru who began making polite inquiries within the embassy itself. A short few minutes later, the man returned.\n\n« Please come with me, Shiba-sama. The Karo will see you now. »\n\nOver the next few minutes, Terumi was led to a quiet, modest room within the embassy's main building. Within, a young man in an earthen-colored kimono with the Phoenix mon racing across his back stood from his seat at a low table.\n\n« Shiba Terumi, I take it? I am Karo Asako Sanumo. A pleasure to meet you. » He bowed and then gestured to the seating arrangements. « I've already called for tea. We can discuss your travel papers and purpose in the city once it arrives. »\n\nWith some time to regard one another in the interim. Sanumo could be seen to have dark, shoulder-length hair bound with a circlet of cord around his head. He wore the countenance of someone who was recently habitually tired or perhaps even prone to melancholy. He seemed content to let silence reign until their beverages were delivered.\n\nAs the tea arrived, he served a cup for his visitor before saying. « Please, Shiba-san. Tell me about your journey to the city and how we might assist you now that you are here. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Terumi quietly followed the processes of the embassy with effortless grace. As he met with the karo, the young bushi took of his straw hat and bowed in return. When he raised his head, the karo would be met with the youthful beauty of the young man. Silky black hair kept long and well-cared for draped over his shoulder, nearly reaching his waist in length, adorned only by a simple flower hairpin in the shape and hue of a red lotus. His skin was pale and his face quite handsome yet his eyes were unnervingly dark and piercing.\n\n\"A pleasure to meet you, Asako-san.\" He said, a faint yet polite smile on his face.\n\nSilence grew between them as they wait for the beverages to arrive and Terumi wasn't bothered by it, maintaining the small smile on his face as he regarded the karo and was regarded by the karo in return.\n\n\"My thanks for the tea, Asako-san.\" He said as he takes a small sip, closing his eyes to savor the flavor. His smile grew minutely, clearly pleased. Yet when his eyes opened, they were still unnerving. Perhaps it was something that won't change. \"The journey was pleasant and uneventful. As for my purpose ...\"\n\nHe takes another sip. Then he places the cup on the low table.\n\n\"It is duty, Karo-san. \"\n\nStill sitting, he inclined his head in a short, quick, yet respectful bow.\n\n\"My blade is at the disposal of the embassy.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "A frustratingly vague answer, but not one he hadn't heard before. At least nothing had harried him along his travels.\n\nHe nodded in acknowledgement « We are honored to have your aid. Let me review your papers and then we can see about bringing you up to speed on recent events and determining how you might be of service. »\n\nHe took the travel papers as Terumi produced them and began to pore over their contents. Quirking an eyebrow, he noted that the authorizing party had indicated the samurai as bored and in need of reassignment.\n\n*I didn't realize boredom was a valid reason to acquire a new job.*\n\nGlancing briefly up at his clansmen, he pondered the gravity which his gaze held and the... Disquiet that something about him seemed to evoke.\n\n*Perhaps this Isawa who signed his papers grew displeased with having such a person around. Typical.*\n\nSetting them next to his own cup for later filing, he continued. « Everything appears to check out, though the details within were rather sparse. Where do your talents and interests as a bushi lie? It would be a waste for me to assign you to tasks that ill fit your capabilities. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "_... What exactly did Benihime-sama write on that letter?_\n\nIn his mind, Terumi sighed. Outwardly, his face remained the same.\n\n_No matter._\n\n\"I am a duelist, Asako-san.\" He replied, smile widening a bit the serenity in his gaze seemed to ... Deepen and intensify as he said it. Like realizing that the placid lake was wider than initially thought and with disquieting depth. \n\n\"I am skilled in every way to use a katana. Should you call for my services in court or in the battlefields out of it, I will be ready.\"\n\nThe Asako seemed to be a capable fellow. A heartening realization, to be sure. He was a bit perturbed by the thought of having an arrogant Isawa as his first contact in the embassy but the karo has settled his petty worries in that regard.\n\n\"And even if you ask something beyond my skills in battle, I will help to the best of my abilities regardless.\" The young man said, offering a short nod and closing his disquieting eyes. Remarkably, it made him look much kinder.\n\nAn illusion broken once those eyes of his opened once more.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« A duelist, you say? It's a shame we didn't have you sooner. » he shook his head, loose hairs swishing as he did so. « However, just because your arrival was not perfectly timed does not make it any less auspicious. We currently have a dearth of skilled Phoenix bushi in the city and we can certainly put you to good use. »\n\nPausing long enough to enjoy some tea of his own, he pressed on. « The ambassador recently signed on to look into a peculiar situation in the city's underworld. My understanding is that one of the many criminal factions is setting up their own shrines for visitors to worship them. I'm going to recommend to Shiba Iemon-sama that he brief you on the particulars and have you assist in his stead. »\n\n*A good way to spare Iemon from unnecessary danger while allowing this new samurai to network and make an impact in one motion.*\n\n« If there are no objections, you should know how things stand between us and our fellows before we part ways. » He awaited Terumi's opinion, despite that it was not something Sanumo was required to take into account.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"How interesting,\" He commented, interested by this news of criminals making shrines. Of all things, why places of worship? It doesn't quite make sense for the young samurai but if that was what he was bade to do, then he will do it with little complaint. Besides, it would be a good way to get a grasp of the city. Maybe meet some interesting people.\n\nTerumi takes a sip from his tea.\n\n\"I accept this task, Asako-san.\" He said with that same damnable smile on his face. \n\n\"Is our clan regarded well in the city?\" Terumi asked, a query borne out of curiosity rather than worry. He has grown used to the oftentimes distasteful attitudes of the Isawa and he wondered if the roaring flames of the Phoenix has burned a few bridges in Ryoko Owari Toshi already.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "He nodded, happy to have the matter of Terumi's first assignment settled. His question, however, was less of an upbeat topic.\n\n\"That really depends on who you ask, Shiba-san. In the not-so-distant past, we were of little remark overall and were building rapport with the Unicorn. Then we had an incident.\"\n\nThe courtier looked increasingly irritated and paused to try and compose himself before proceeding. \"While in pursuit of a thief in the Leatherworker's Quarter, one of our shugenja urged the kami to strike the thief with lightning... While a prominent Utaku was right next to them. The man was blown clean through a wall and it is a miracle he survived.\"\n\n\"As you can imagine, this toppled any goodwill we had earned with the Unicorn, made us look like we lacked restraint and good judgement, and led to a private duel at Ambassador Utaku Kazuko's request. In a show of **Deep** Disrespect, she put a ronin in her employ named Atsuko up against our own Ambassador.\"\n\nSanumo stopped, realizing that he was gripping his cup hard enough that he was afraid it might burst, and set it down gently.\n\n\"We did not win, though we would prefer that knowledge to stay as private as the duel. Our time since then has been spent trying to save face and foster new relations. Lately, the Lion are our staunchest friends and we're preparing to make inroads with the Scorpion, surprisingly enough.\" Steering the topic away from the shugenja incident had seemed to help begin calming him, his focus given something new to fixate upon.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Terumi listened keenly to what the karo had to say with the same placid expression on his face that has been there since the beginning of the conversation. His smile didn't even waver even as he felt a wave of fresh irritation at such a diplomatic blunder caused by shugenja—the members of their clan that was most visible to Rokugan.\n\nThen his eyes widened as he heard a certain name uttered.\n\nHis disturbing eyes narrowed into pinpricks. The smile on his face sharpened, widening as his excitement was ignited. Memories coming to the fore of a small ronin who fought with overwhelming aggression that was unexpected for someone of such size at the time. Of swords flashing brought forth by self-righteous blather and answered by a ronin's rightfully aggrieved pride. Memories of his one and only defeat and how humiliating it was and how enlightening it was flashed through his eyes.\n\nHe only noticed how unseemly he was being when a few chuckles escaped his lips.\n\nThe dissonant serenity was pierced, revealing that there was indeed a beast lying in ambush under the placid surface of the lake.\n\nTerumi takes a deep breath to calm himself. The beating of his heart rang loudly in his ears and that would not do. There is a time and place for excitement and this was not it.\n\n\"Forgive me, Asako-san.\" He said, bringing his racing heart to heel, as he bowed deep. \"That was ... Unseemly of me.\"\n\n\"But that ronin you spoke of. I know of her.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Sanumo was not nearly so unobservant as to notice the severe change in Terumi's demeanor. Fortunes above, he even wondered if the samurai had heard anything else he'd said after his... Display.\n\n\"...Think nothing of it, Shiba-san. While you are not incorrect in your assessment, you are in safe company here.\"\n\n*He knows Atsuko? I'm not sure where to start dissecting his reaction. Actually, that's none of my business right now. Ryoko Owari Toshi is a large city and his current task should keep him well clear of her.*\n\nClearing his throat, he sought to push past that and perhaps, if he ever chose to, save that topic for a later date.\n\nIt might be safer to let it lie.\n\n\"Do you have any questions regarding our clan's status or anything else? I've been kept rather busy lately and I'd hate for you to have to wait to get an urgent answer from me at a later time.\"\n\nIt was clear he was attempting to simultaneously be thorough and bring this meeting to a close.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "The young Shiba successfully regained his prior composure, the smile on his face returning as if his face didn't just twist into a visage that was unsettling. Serenity returned and the lust for battle has receded. It was a surprise, to be sure, to hear that name uttered but Terumi would not let her presence in town distract him from his duty.\n\nHe took the cup of tea, now a bit lukewarm and finishes it.\n\n\"Only a few, Asako-san.\" Terumi said. \"Aside from the tensions with the Unicorn and the rapport we've built with the Lion, how fares our relations with each of the other great clans?\"\n\nTerumi places the empty teacup back onto the table.\n\n\"I would also ask for the names of samurai, esteemed or otherwise, that I should watch out for.\" The corners of his lips curled upwards just a bit as he said this. \n\nThe presence of that ronin alone has already made this new assignment more exciting than he expected but if someone like her stays in Ryoko Owari Toshi, then perhaps there are more interesting people that he might encounter.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "*All reasonable asks. Perhaps this Bushi's... Eccentricities can be overlooked.*\n\n« To my knowledge, the Crane and Dragon have little interest in our affairs. They've had a light presence in the city and we really haven't had cause to interact much. Small amounts of networking and discussion have occurred with the Crab and Mantis, but I would still say we are on firmly neutral, casual footing. »\n\n« Other than the Lion, our other promising prospects lie with the Scorpion. I had a chance encounter with Magistrate Bayushi Yuto and that appears to be turning into more amicably-minded talks of cooperation. We shall see if it bears any fruit. »\n\nTruth be told, the Magistrate had made a good, earnest impression, but the Scorpion were not know for their honesty and forthrightness. Time would reveal their true aims.\n\n« As far as people you should know the name of... » Sanumo quickly rattled through names and descriptions of the clan ambassadors ||as can be found here: and then proceeded to other noteworthy personages. « Of course, Governor Otomo Tanimaru and his family are important, if distant figures. The ronin formerly known as Isawa Taisei and his victim, Utaku Masanori, are also popular topics of discussion as of late. »\n\nHe paused, smoothing out his apparel. « While I could go on for quite some time about various contacts, functionaries, and what-have-you, those seem less germane to your responsibilities and your inquiry. I can always arrange meetings on your behalf should you have need. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "_It seems that an Isawa's blunder has once again made life difficult for everyone else_,Terumi thought wryly. It seemed to him that the Phoenix isn't in so much of a bind as he had feared but the recent incident with the Unicorn seemed to have repercussions to the reputation of the clan in the city. Annoying but it doesn't seem to be something irreparable.\n\nThe Lion was one of the clans he personally finds agreeable. Sure, there might be boorish louts aplenty in their ranks, or so the rumors say, but a clan filled with strong fighters and swordsmen are the kind of samurai was a clan that he can admire. On the other hand, the Scorpion ...\n\nWell, Terumi has some reservations but he's not the ambassador. That's beyond his purview.\n\nNames have been given, though, and he made sure to remember the most important ones.\n\nAfter the karo finished speaking, Terumi hummed thoughtfully.\n\n\"... What of dangers, Asako-san?\" He asked after a moment's deliberation. \"What threats might be poised against the Phoenix, our allies, and the people of the city? I would be remiss in my duty if I'm not aware of potential dangers.\"\n\n_And the old man would be disappointed._\n\nHe remembered brutal and unforgiving spars with a man twice his size as his father mercilessly lectured him on the importance of protecting those you've pledged to defend.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "Noting the samurai's prudence, he leaned forward, elbows on the table, and gestured along with his words.\n\n« In my assessment, most of the city's danger comes from its vast, sprawling underworld. While it is not my area of expertise, I'm told that there is a power vacuum currently and the many seedy factions are squabbling over scraps. Whether they be part of the Firemen gangs, opium cartels, or anything else, you would do well to tread carefully in such a volatile environment. Doubly so in the Leatherworker's Quarter; they have taken particular exception to Taisei's incident. »\n\n« However,-» he raised a finger, beginning to speak much less casually. « -I have heard tale of yokai and other spiritual oddities and imbalances in the city. And I have personally encountered a pack of some sort of ravenous creatures in the surrounding countryside. »\n\nSanumo visibly shuddered, recalling just how close he had come to being torn to ribbons.\n\n« I suppose what I'm saying, Shiba-san, is that danger could unfortunately be most anywhere.»\n\nHe was likely just as unhappy to deliver the news as Terumi was to hear it.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Terumi closed his eyes and briefly exhaled. \n\nGangs from a deeply-rooted underworld and yokai in both the city and the countryside ...\n\nWhen his dark eyes opened once more, the young swordsman looked more ... Curious rather than unhappy.\n\n_How interesting,_ he thought.\n\nHe hasn't encountered any yokai before. Would his blade find purchase in whatever passes for flesh with these otherworldly creatures? Would they shed blood as red as those of his fellow men? Would they shed blood at all? It was an interesting conundrum to consider. In any case, it seems like his blade will be drawn sooner or later. A heartening thought, to be sure. However, another part of him urged to practice due vigilance to better protect the embassy and his clan.\n\n\"If that is the case, then I shall prepare myself and my sword for every kind of trouble.\" Terumi politely said.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "leduelist",
"message": "« Easier said than done, Shiba-san, but your tenacity is admirable. » He began to rise and gestured for Terumi to stay seated. « Please, stay a while and know the comforts of time spent away from the road. I will have servants by shortly to get you a hot meal and direct you to your quarters. »\n\n*After I figure out where they will be.*\n\nHe briefly bowed. « It has been a pleasure meeting you and helping you to know your new station. You should hear from the Ambassador soon; he will be most happy at your arrival. »\n\nSliding the door open, he paused briefly to look over his shoulder and deliver a slightly strained smile. « The embassy isn't going to run itself. If you have need of me, most anyone should be able to steer you in the right direction. »\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "The servants quickly arrive on Sanumo's heels, and respectfully usher Terumi to a separate room that has been set for two. Food is brought out and set, and the servant silently nods to indicate that the new Shiba begin.\n\nA few more minutes pass, and Iemon enters, bowing to the other man. \"I must beg your pardon for my delay in joining you, Asako Sanumo-san was kindly telling me of how suited you are to join our embassy staff. It is good to meet you, Shiba Terumi-san. I am Shiba Iemon, ambassador for our Clan to Ryoko Owari Toshi.\" He sat opposite the younger man, reaching for the noodles. \n\n\"I have also yet to eat lunch, so I hope you do not mind if I join you?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"Thank you for your guidance, Asako-san.\" Terumi said, bowing gratefully at the karo as he left.\n\nSoon, he was ushered out to a different room by dutiful servants where food was arrayed before him. He graced them with quiet and respectful thanks. As he began to get his chopsticks to begin sating his hunger, another samurai entered.\n\nSeated as he was, he still managed a respectul bow towards the now-introduced ambassador.\n\n\"The pleasure is mine, Shiba Iemon-sama.\" He replied, a courteous though faint smile on his face. \"And I do not mind.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Excellent.\" Iemon quickly added food to his plate, and poured from a small bottle of sake he had brought with him into a cup to pass to the younger man. \n\n\"A particular favorite of mine from my home of Nikesake.\" He says, a small smile of amusement crossing his features. \"Though I fear I may need to order more at the rate that I've given away the small stock I had brought with me.\"\n\nIemon takes a few bites of food, allowing Terumi to do the same. \"Sanumo-san has told me that he feels you will be a good fit for a task of a rather troubling nature regarding a local criminal. Have you much experience in dealing with such people?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "Terumi takes the cup and listened to the explanation with a curious hum. He takes a sip of the cup and savors it but the young man keeps his silence, no particularly strong feelings toward sake. As the ambassador ate, so too did he. As he did, he eyed the man.\n\nThis was the one who crossed blades with that ronin.\n\nHe feels a surge of excitement but tempers it. This is hardly the time or place for such a topic.\n\n\"Not so much, Shiba-sama.\" He freely admits as he placed his bowl back to the table. \"I have dealt with criminals and ronin on my musha shugyo but only on an individual basis. This seems larger than that.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Indeed, but that will make it a good opportunity to learn. Having a grounding in the basics can lend itself to more advanced applications.\" Iemon took another bite, chewing thoughtfully. \"Not that we mean to cast you off on your own immediately, of course. More than likely we will have at least one or two others working with you.\" \n\nHe adds some of the slivers of vegetables to his plate, raising another bite to his lips. \"With your focus on the blade, I would also welcome a sparring partner. I have... Unfortunately had the unpleasant experience of learning my technique could use improvement, and have lacked someone to train with within our Clan's local roster. If you would indulge me in that, I would be grateful to you.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"Then I thank you for this opportunity, Shiba-sama.\" Terumi said, before his chopstick found a piece of tofu and elegantly stuffed it in his mouth. \n\nThe ambassador's next words drew his interest and kept it there. This time, Terumi managed to temper his excitement, cut it off before it would show up on his face. \n\n\"Of course, Shiba-sama. I think we would both benefit from having a regular sparring partner.\" The young shiba agreed with a small nod. It was not a difficult request to agree to. After all, Terumi's life has always been devoted to the blade. A ronin has given that nuance—opened his eyes to the wider world, to paths and possibilities beyond the way of the sword but Terumi's path has been chosen.\n\nThat same ronin has beaten the ambassador sitting and eating in front of him.\n\nTerumi quietly returned to eating his food, contemplative as he gathered this thoughts, wondering if it was a good idea to bring it up ...\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Excellent, thank you, Shiba-san.\" Iemon said, chasing another morsel with a sip of tea. \n\n\"I am... Unsure if Asako-san had mentioned it to you, but I recently lost a sword fight over a matter of honor. I do not intend to repeat the experience, and any opportunity to improve myself is a welcome one, to say the least.\" He downed the rest of his sake cup. \"I have some training in the art of Iaido, but traditional swordplay is definitely my stronger suit.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"I have been praised in both traditional swordplay and in iaido, Shiba-sama.\" He plainly said, taking another tofu and quickly followed it with a clump of rice. \"I've only been beaten once in a fight.\"\n\nHe places the bowl down, still smiling as he stared at the ambassador dead in the eye. \n\n\"Forgive me if I'm being bold, Shiba-sama, but my curiosity implores me to ask.\" He began to say, licking his lips as his soft smile widened into a sharp grin, filled with joy and excitement. \"How was she when you fought her? Was she still a vicious warrior, swift and aggressive, fighting with a fire in her lone eye and with the swiftness of a hunting wolf?\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "Iemon's eyebrows shot up at the open question. \"Ah. You are familiar with my triumphant opponent, then? Truly, the Empire seems to grow smaller the more I experience of it.\" He gave a light, rueful chuckle.\n\n\"She was... In hindsight, magnificent. Her ability to aggressively seek openings kept me from properly using my greater reach, and she even used a katana that was longer than one her size would be presumed to wield.\" He idly rubbed at his healing wound again. \n\nFood forgotten, his focus was on dissecting the fight, for the first time since being able to relate it to another student of the blade. \"My defense was strong, but in attempting to find an opening of my own, she found my arm first with a blow that would have left her open to a lethal reply, had our duel not been to first blood. It is only thanks to the quick reaction of the judge that I did not dishonor myself and our clan by doing so. I was so caught up in my own fighting spirit...\" He shook his head. \"Again, thankfully nothing of further dishonor than my loss to a ronin occurred.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "He nodded along to the senior Shiba's words. Digesting them as soon as it was spoken, understanding them as he slowly formed the duel in his mind. However, he knew that he cannot truly recreate such a spectacular bout in his mind, not without hearing the ronin's own testimony of how it went at the very least.\n\nThrough it all, his smile was bright and sharp, his once lifeless eyes were now filled with clarity, purpose, and a deep but quiet hunger. While Asako Sanumo merely caught a glimpse, Shiba Iemon would see a lot more than a glimpse, a clearer look on what kind of man the young Shiba Terumi was turning out to be: a warrior who treads the path of the sword and loves it sincerely and wholly.\n\n\"It must've been a fight to witness,\" He said, still smiling brightly. \"I am familiar with the way she fights for I have met her before. Fought her before ...\" \n\nHe pauses as memories of that fateful bout come rushing to the forefront of his mind. All those blisteringly fast and utterly relentless strikes that eventually overwhelmed the defense he prized so much. \n\n_I could feel them again._\n\n_Phantom aches from a wound that is no longer there._\n\n\"... Lost to her before.\" He chuckled softly, before he took a sip of his sake. \"She was my one and only loss, Shiba-sama, and it was the best fight of my life.\"\n\nHe stared straight at his fellow Shiba's eyes.\n\n\"It might be dishonor to lose to a mere ronin but it is certainly not a shame to lose to such a sublime swordsman.\"\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"Indeed, she was truly skilled, there is no mistaking that.\" Iemon nodded, recognizing the fire in the other man's eyes all too well. \"The dishonor was less for the loss and more for the insult freely offered, which I feel there is little way to respond to openly, especially since the Unicorn Ambassador had the courtesy to keep the results of the duel to a minimum for the official records. Not that I am ungrateful for that, but it... Makes it almost better to try and move forward and not acknowledge it further, on the public scale.\" *Almost.* \n\n\"Perhaps, then, even though you come to us later than I would have preferred, your timing is guided by fate. Knowing that you had faced such a foe and also been defeated is mildly alleviating to my still aching pride.\n\n\"Even without the full results of the duel being a matter of public record, I worry that the loss exposes a weakness in our Clan. That will *Not* Do. With your help, we shall as a whole correct this perception of a potential inadequacy, so that should others seek to test us, we shall be ready.\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "With a pleased chuckle, the young Shiba bowed to the older one.\n\n\"I will endeavor to prove this perception wrong with every swing of my sword, Shiba-sama.\" He said, steel in his voice and excitement clear from the sharp grin threatening to split his face. Briefly, he relished the idea of matching steel with that ronin once again but he found his pride quite affronted by the thought of the public thinking that the Phoenix are poor swordsmen. He would not let that pass. \n\n\"Though I feel I am compelled to ask, Shiba-sama, do you know the names of the swordsmen of note in this city?\" \n\n||"
},
{
"author": "baronvark",
"message": "\"I am afraid that I do not. There had been a talented Crane I had heard of, but unfortunately they met their end due to their own hotheaded provocation of some of the more... Unsavory business that occurs in this city.\" The name of that samurai escaped Iemon at present, but perhaps it was worth inquiring further on. Later. \n\n\"Either way, inquiries can be made to see what can be discovered on that account, if you wish. I hope you won't be too quick to go looking for a fight to prove yourself.\" He offered the admonition lightly, not wanting to provoke or command, but perhaps to guide slightly. Iemon's personal adherence to the Phoenix's outlook of pacifism may have been put to the test in the past months, but it was still something he held close to his heart.\n\n||"
},
{
"author": "bonepapermoon",
"message": "\"Worry not, Shiba-sama,\" He reassuringly said. \"While I do not shy away from spilling blood, my interest in battle is an artisan's interest. I always seek to improve myself in the way of the sword but I will not draw my blade knowing it will harm my duty as a samurai of the Phoenix.\"\n\nHe was raised strictly by an uncompromising father who was also his teacher. Bruises and sore limbs have tempered him enough to restrain his desire to test his blade, and that fateful duel he had with the one-eyed ronin has only reinforced the lessons instilled in him. \n\n||"
}
] | 226.5 | 6,629 |
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