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Kuni Kenson Kenson looks up, startled. "Mm, yes, perhaps. But are assassins sent in numbers greater than one? Were it not for.." he glances at the river "...certain intervention, we would have been destroyed in our sleep with little difficulty." "Nonetheless...mm. An attack I have difficulty believing is entirely random, and yet, and yet.." He stands once more, hands in his sleeves, scowling. "And yet."
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| # ? May 10, 2010 16:31 |
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| # ? May 18, 2013 20:39 |
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The Kitsuki examines the scene, but there is too much in flux to make a proper assessment. His time well beyond the wall has stinted much in the way of tactics and the ways of goblins and their shadowlands ilk. Compounding this is the efficient and dutiful crew, clearing away the remains with a tenacity that borders on the obsessive. Still, there are some things almost self evident. Goblin raiding parties commonly sought what they thought of as easy prizes, and doubtless the outcome of a successful attack would have been a lot of slit throats and well looted corpses. Shinjo-san has more insights into the matter. The Hiruma Bushi is no stranger to these foul creatures, and has seen many raids even in his short time. An exceptional leader would sometimes emerge, and they would become more dangerous for a time. Scanning the horizon near the river, he marks the foothills at the delta as the probable lair. No matter. As if reading his thoughts, Takada-sama joins him. "Aye, I'll send word and they'll send a band of Hiruma in. Swampy at the base of those hills, all fens and marshland." The rest of the night passes with a flavor of peace, and when Lord Sun rises above the horizon he rises behind the outline of Yasuki Yashiki. It is a beautiful structure, owing much to the Crane ancestry. Elegantly the fortress stands above the slopes, overlooking the waves. Beneath it is an extensive system of docks; this port is the seat of much trade in the Crab lands and the gateway to points beyond. Hundreds of peasant workers labor here, the grease on which the wheels of the Great Clan must turn. Beyond the docks are a busy, twisting array of streets. This is a place of much commerce, and the outlying townworks have a kind of ugly practicality that contrasts sharply with the Yasuki castle beyond. Takada-sama bows to the group. He is smiling. "Here we part ways, much to my sorrow. I have little to offer you save for the wisdom of my years. Be careful who you trust, that is wisdom. Be more careful still with whom you do not. The price of honor is one many are willing to pay, and that coin spends like any other." Analysis of a skirmish would properly be the function of Battle (Skirmish) rather than Investigation or Hunting. Lore: Shadowlands works well, and Shinjo has that in bunches.
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| # ? May 10, 2010 23:00 |
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Yasuki Genjo "Thank you for the wisdom, Takada-sama. It is a commodity few can offer." Standing in one of the homes of the Yasuki, Genjo is at home. This is where is he was trained, where he feels most comfortable. A last taste of home, before the journey to the Crane lands - and beyond. The incident on the boat was nothing to brag about - he had slain one Goblin, a feat most Crab could attest to. Shinjo held a far better record, as far as he was concerned - but at least he didn't end up as bad as Kenson. Still, now it was time for them to shine. The main issue was going to Yashiki's Court - presenting themselves well enough to be granted with the finest gifts from the Yasuki's stores. If they acted like foolish children - which everyone expected them too - they would not be entrusted with what they needed. "I believe it is time me meet with Aranko-sama, and secure our passage and our mission. Shall we?"
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| # ? May 11, 2010 01:19 |
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Hiruma Shinjo Shinjo takes in the bustling town. He's never been this far from the wall before, and it's quite something. Perhaps a little too something. There is an awful lot of people, and he has never been his best around crowds. Even so, there are thousands of stories in this place, ones he could never hope to guess at. At Genjo's words, Shinjo nods, "Lead the way, friend. You navigate the courts, I will navigate the wilderness. Fortunes help us if we were to try it the other way around." LizardBeam fucked around with this message at May 11, 2010 around 03:11 |
| # ? May 11, 2010 01:47 |
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Toritaka Noriko She's up early and properly dressed, hair up, face paint on, and gazing at the temple with a sort of quiet appreciation. Inwardly, she is in awe. It was quite possibly the most beautiful structure she had ever seen; Crab lands were much better known for the utility rather than the aestheticism of their structures. Such frippery would be considered wasted on a building that may well burn in five years, sacrificed to the ebb and flow of the winds of fate and tides of battle. She looks to the captain as he offers some parting words of advice, bowing low and thanking him for the transport before disembarking and waiting for the others. Once they are all together, she follows Genjo's lead, going over a few noted ties and alliances in her head, trying to keep them all straight. It would cost much face if they were to fail here, and if she has anything to say about it, it won't be by her hand.
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| # ? May 11, 2010 04:37 |
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Toritaka Hayatoko Hayatoko was up early after the night's excitement. She could hardly go back to sleep. Instead she spent most of the rest of the morning leaning over the prow of the boat, watching the wave come in. The impressive sight of the magnificant citidel leaves her wondering, not for the first time, what she was doing here. She was much more comfortable in the woods, hunting for game or something larger. Still, duty first, and here she was, wearing one of her mother's best hats, a light blue stamped with the Crab Clan mon. She lifted her blade a small way out of it's Saya, to make sure it was clean, and she checked the sleeves of her Kimono for any small bites. Nami tended to nibble when he was bored. Following the others off the boat, she bids farewell to the captain, "Thank you for your advise. I only wish others could be as frank as you."
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| # ? May 11, 2010 14:06 |
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Kuni Chiaki After finishing up with the cleansing ritual he headed to the kitchen, he hadn't kept anything don this whole trip but with that battle it seems as though the whole sickness of the moving ship had left his system and he was fairly confident he could eat something now. He didn't gorge himself even though his stomach was still hungry after a normal sized meal, a byproduct of not eating for a few days. But overeating even in this situation would show a sign of weakness, and he wasn't planning on doing that before even getting to the courts. After dinner he retired back to him room to catch a few hours of sleep before morning. Awaking as the ship pulled into port he quickly gather what few things he had taken out of his pack and joined everyone on deck. The commotion of the city was refreshing the short trip by boat had seemed like weeks under the circumstances but the sight of land and a city calmed his spirit making him forget the unpleasantness of the trip. Once the captain finished he doubled checked everything of his was in order. "I apologize for not being a great guest but i am thankful for the experience of your crew and for hospitality you showed me. May your journey home be a safe one."
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| # ? May 11, 2010 16:14 |
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Parting ways, the sound of Takada-sama barking orders to his crew and the roustabouts on the pier are the last they hear of him, for the moment at least. Yet his role in this tale is not yet finish, and the brave would do well to keep the face of the good Captain in their hearts. The docks themselves are a seeming maelstrom of chaos, great cargoes being loaded and unloaded and men working in teams at windlasses to swing the gear over. More voices join them, harsh barks of Yasuki Taskmasters punctuated by the crack of the whip. On shore, the situation is not much better. The roads are old, dating back to the Crane, and well maintained. Lining the way to the castle are the low places of the sailors who have coin to spend in port. Sake and the worst sort of geisha houses, inns of no great honor, gambling dens, and fortune tellers. With every step the group winds up the hill towards the great castle, and with every step they seem to rise out of the muck. Following the low wharf there are warehouses, unarmored and undefended. These are mere shelters for things in transit. Beyond that, merchant houses and the like, those not well off enough or great enough to take residence in the castle. The road ends in a bridge of granite, spanning the natural gulf to the rock on which the Black Crane Palace stands. Yasuki and Crab banners flutter bravely over top. The gates are open, but by them a dozen Yasuki Bushi in full armor stand with spear and daisho. These are crossed before the group as they approach, barring the way. "Speak of your business in this place, and in whose name you conduct it," the sergeant bellows. Every word is like the crack of his whip, he has a voice well suited to parade grounds and drill.
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| # ? May 11, 2010 18:54 |
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Kuni Kenson He bows to the captain, first, very low; his eyes, rheumy with uncertain sleep, dart to the ship briefly, but his gratitude is clear. "Truly, honored Takada-sama, we live in a land of colliding worlds. I had not realized..." He shakes himself slightly. "I am grateful for your teaching." So saying, he descends the ramp in a rustle of silks, his best kimono stretching across his belly, a sea of purple bound in green. He observes, first, his companion's reactions; Yasuki-san's shoulders loosen slightly, while Hiruma-san holds himself straighter. The man of the cities and the man of the wilderness- the thought brings a brief, flashing smile. Toritaka-san, eager as ever, has a fine hat and an expression of paralyzing desire to please. Noriko-san... is attempting to avoid reaction. Her face is reminiscent of the monks of...the dragon lands, yes, somewhat. Almost rapt. In his head, thoughts march even as they stride, assembling themselves like soldiers: who will be weakened from pride, who from discomfort, who from disabusement? Will any succumb to it sufficiently to be problematic? The town's ugliness wrinkles his nose- a brutality almost beyond that of the wall itself, which has, at least, the beauty of pride. Here, in the shadow of the castle, what is plotted? More importantly, what is plotted within the castle? Aloud, just before reaching the bridge, he speaks: "This should be a matter to stimulate the mind; it is good to have such a blessing for weary flesh such as I possess." At the sentry's query, he adopts an attitude of profound obsequiousness and defers to the fairest of their company. Mage Ham fucked around with this message at May 11, 2010 around 19:12 |
| # ? May 11, 2010 19:09 |
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Yasuki Genjo Giving the guard an apropriate bow, Genjo steps in front of his companions. This was his family after all - he was the one to take the lead in such matters. The Guards were always so proper, for good reason. If every supplicant could gain acsess to the Courts, nothing would be done - hence the systems of family, patronage, sensei and student, and so on that ruled in the Empire. It just so happened they had the second most powerful Patron in the Crab Lands behind their task, short of the Emperor. It would make this a low hurdle indeed. "We are sent to speak with the Honored Yasuki Aranko, on urgent business regarding the Crane." Straightening up, Genjo produces the scrolls, sealed by the Daimyo's personal seal - showing them to the guard, knowing that Aranko probably had little idea who was actaully coming to serve her in this matter. "Aranko-sama may not be expecting us so early - we may have outpaced any messengers from Hida Kuon."
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| # ? May 11, 2010 21:26 |
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The sergeant notes the seal with a nod, and then selects a scroll from the satchel. Unrolling it, he reads the travel paper and note of introduction. With a grunt, the spears withdraw. He hands the scroll to a boy loitering nearby, barking a sharp order at him. The lad scurries off, heading through a side door and up the stairs. "You are in order, and expected, Genjo-sama," he says with a bow. "It is to our regret we are not in readiness, perhaps you would care to wait in the gardens or the galleries. A servant of the court will be with you when all is in readiness." His demeanor had changed, now he was all formal respect, but only Kenson and Genjo could hear the real message. They had been expected, but would be made to wait. The seal of the Clan Champion meant much here, but such affairs could take from days to weeks. Genjo knew well the galleries and gardens. Displays of weapons, armor, jade, and herb gardens. Cunningly arranged, his cousins would observe the interest prospective traders showed in this or that. If the armor caught their interest, a surplus on that would be found. If the rare herbs drew attention, it would be the case the Kuni had recently visited and the stores were good. A crafty merchant family that showed few scruples in their trade. Still, the gardens were beautiful. Unlike anything at Kyuden Hida these were ornamental as well as of medicinal and spiritual utility. Red japonica blossoms offer bright shade to herb and spice plants cunningly arrayed about them. The lines of the place were perfect, and beyond were the galleries, a sort of living museum. They are not alone in this place, ambassadors from other clans and merchants were here. There were no less than two small parties of Mantis traders ogling a magnificent suit of Kaiu armor, and even a quartet of ronin keeping to themselves near the orange trees. Perhaps most curious is a trio in dazzling blue silks. They bear no mon, for Crab and Crane alike know to bring something bearing that chop across the threshold of the gates would be to tempt fate too dearly, but the exquisite styling of their kimono and the stark white hair mark them as Crane. A woman or more correctly a girl, an older man, and their yojimbo. Only the latter is armed, his daisho neat in his obi as he watches the angles. Man and girl must be father and daughter if the tale of their faces was no fiction, save for the girl's exquisite beauty. She is beyond breathtaking, a perfect blossom. She hunkers down near an ornamental pond, speaking soft words and gazing into the waters.
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| # ? May 11, 2010 22:54 |
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Yasuki Genjo The Gardens were beautiful, as always. Genjo was not one for horticulture, as some Courtiers were - the finer arts of painting, sculpting, origami, and so on were all lost on his clumsy hands. Even the subtle strings of the Biwa were beyond him - he stuck to poetry and storytelling, qualities that used his voice and his beauty to their fullest. As they stroll through the gardens, waiting the proscribed amount of time to meet someone as exalted as Yasuki Aranko, Genjo spots their Crane visitors. Of course, he had no official business speaking with them - they were doubtlessly waiting for the same reason they were. Still, they were of the Crane, and that is where they were headed in a short time. It would be good to meet and socialize, perhaps catch news of the Asahina lands before they traveled there. Plus, the younger Crane was a rare beauty. He had heard tales of course - Doji Courtiers who could charm the most stalwart Lion into abandoning his Lord, simply for a token of their favor. As he approaches them, Genjo wonders if he will be able to resist. He does not look behind him to know that Shinjo will trail him but a step, ever vigilant in his duties as a yojibmo. Not that he could do much against a Kakita duelist, but it was appearances that counted, as in all things. Giving the three Crane the lowest bow he can muster without appearing weak, or giving insult, Genjo opens with the most basic of courtly greetings. He adresses the older man - to do otherwise would be a grave insult, and Genjo did not feel like tasting steel today. "Honored Crane-samas, how does this day find you? I hope the hospitality of my family finds you comfortable." Gathering an air of refined interest - but not too much interest - Genjo flashes a smile and introduces himself. "I am Yasuki Genjo, servant of Yasuki Jinn-Kuen." gently caress I have no idea how to talk like a Samurai. lawl. Etiquette 2/Awareness 3. 5k3.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 00:08 |
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Toritaka Hayatoko Looking around in wide eyed amazement, Hayatoko was highly impressed. This was an order of magnitude finer then even the greatest residence at the Toritaka holdings. Still, that's the Crane for you! While she was distracted looking at the gardens, Nami caws and shoots off her hand. She sighs. She recognises that cry, he wanted a drink. Flapping down to the pong next to the girl he dips his beak into the water and drinks quickly. "Nami!" She hisses. "Get back here..." Shockingly the falcon ignores her. She shuffles over trying to not draw too much attention to her and her errant bird. Crouching down she says, "There'll be plenty of time for drink later." Suddenly, she realises the Crane might be assuming she was speaking to her, rather then Nami. "Excuse me, Crane-san, my bird appears to be not listening to me today. Apparently he does not want to go hunting later!" He last words are directly pointedly at Nami as she glares at her hunting companion.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 00:17 |
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Yasuki Genjo As he makes his introduction, Genjo does his best not to stare, or drop his jaw. He is not sure who he is more likely to strangle in the night - Hayatoko, or her stupid bird. DiscipleoftheClaw fucked around with this message at May 12, 2010 around 00:31 |
| # ? May 12, 2010 00:27 |
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Hiruma Shinjo Shinjo is not sure whether to laugh, drag Hayatoko away or merely stare. Even he knows that you do not act like that, not in court. He has no idea how you're supposed to act, simply that is almost definitely not it. He remains quiet, a step back from Genjo. He looks from his friend, to the bird, to the Cranes, and back again. He does not expect violence, but he knows Cranes can be a touchy bunch. Of course, they prefer dueling to brawling. Even so, he makes note of the man with a sword.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 01:18 |
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The falcon dives, and the girl gives a bit of a shriek. The dive is shallow, there is a splash, and it is evident she was speaking to a frog at the side of the pond. The yojimbo's hand goes to his obi, and he takes a respectful step back. That step also brings him into a drawing stance. With that, he is still as a stone. His eyes flick to the Hiruma, and he and Shinjo share a moment. Duty is a hard master. The girl is at first startled, then charmed. "What a handsome animal," she smiles. It is a smile of pure delight, and a delight to all who see it. "Does it have a name?" Hayatoko feels a sharp slap to the back of her head, and the arm at the end of the slap is an old man in a dirty kimono bearing the Yasuki mon. A wakizashi is shoved into his obi along with a variety of pruning shears, trowels, and other gardening tools. Long whispy white eyebrows frame angry black eyes. "Tress and hood that thing while in my garden," he snaps sharply. The ancient gardener was not there a moment ago, it is uncanny. "If your winged goblin takes a songbird," he snarls. He is practically vibrating with fury. "It will go badly for you." This draws a laugh, a bold one, from the elder Crane. He bows to Genjo and the others in turn. "It is pleasing to meet you," he returns. His bow has a fluid, polished crispness. "I am Asahina Ryo, this is my daughter Hitomi. Our silent companion is Daidoji Akio. Your name is not unknown to me, it is auspicious we should meet so," he says brightly. The man had an easy charm to him, pleasing and graceful. "Have you ever seen the sun rise over the ocean?" Winson_Paine fucked around with this message at May 12, 2010 around 02:38 |
| # ? May 12, 2010 01:59 |
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Kuni Kenson Kenson, arriving to the conversation, furrows his brow, then smiles. His gaze is without direction; everything and everyone appears to interest him equally. A slight quiver of the upper lip, quickly suppressed, can be observed at the sight of the younger lady dressed as a Crane. "Ah, and so; you bear an honored name, Asahina-sama. And your companion is a reminder of the amity that should always exist between men of honorable intent: who could forget the love the Hida bear the Iron Cranes?" He smiles in response to the laugh, and bows to the correct depth. "I am Kuni Kenson, servant of my clan." With this somewhat ambiguous introduction, he stands content, albeit with suppressed laughter at the behavior of the Toritaka almost apparent. Awareness2/Courtier3 for a general overview, with specific attention to anyone these suspicious crane types were talking to or looking at. Awareness2/Ettiquette3 to project geniality as the sun projects light. Mage Ham fucked around with this message at May 12, 2010 around 06:20 |
| # ? May 12, 2010 02:26 |
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Toritaka Noriko She walks through the filth and the grime unseeing, the area beneath her notice, beneath her recognition. No eye contact is made; indeed all about her would be keening ghosts to the insensitive, invisible save for a cold chill on the back, or an errant whisper faintly caught. She keeps an eye out for followers, or trouble, but other than that, it is not worth mentioning. Further up the road, things change, as does her demeanor. She stays silent but appears more relaxed, more animated, feeling free to look now, note the increasing opulence of the dwellings, until finally they arrive at the bridge and she stops, just taking in the view for a long moment. It is impressive, lovely, stark and ornate all at the same time, a beautiful melding of Crane and Crab sensibilities, and an aura of peace almost glows about it. It is a holy place, and she can feel it. She quickens her pace, not hurrying, but catching up quickly just the same, just in time to hear the tail end of Yasuki-san's introduction, and the reaction to the scrolls. The guards' demeanor changing to respect, the directing to the gardens. And such gardens. She always did have a fondness for flowers, and the gardens of the Black Crane were like nothing she had ever seen. Such beauty, such precise attention to feng shui, plants she had never before seen, both functional and decorative. Perhaps she becomes a bit too engrossed, because before she knows it Hayatoko-chan is... yelling. And running, in this place, of all places. Noriko lifts her kimono and hurries as fast as her high shoes will let her towards the pond, eyes wide as she takes in the scene, the steps of the yojimbo, the lovely little girl... who then laughs. Her shoulders slump with relief, and the look she gives Hayatoko-chan could curdle new milk. That is before the gardener lays hand on her. An eyebrow arches but as he seems content to merely browbeat the girl, she says nothing but settles her arms within the folds of her robe and bows deeply in apology to the laughing lord of the Crane, then slightly less so to the offended gardener. "It will go badly for her regardless, I assure you, garden master," she says quietly, tone icy. "Do forgive my young, callow, exceedingly foolish cousin; she is fresh from the hunt and green as the new willow to the ways of civilized places. We shall see to the falcon at once. Won't we, Hayatoko." There is no fond honorific there, no warmth in her tone. Awareness 3, Etiquette 2, Courtier 2 to try and reduce the insult Hayatoko has visited upon the gardens and the Cranes. 5k3 calling a raise. Oracle fucked around with this message at May 12, 2010 around 02:28 |
| # ? May 12, 2010 02:26 |
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Yasuki Genjo "The honor is mine, Asahina-sama. I was not aware my name had traveled far from my parents lips." Genjo makes a mental note - Asahina Hitomi was beautiful, and was nice, apparently. The Gardener was right - Hayatako did not deserve that forgiveness so easily. It was a major breach of social etiquette."I have seen the sun rise over the Ocean, more than once. It is beautiful - I can see why the Mantis love it so. I have read that the sunrise in your own homeland is more beautiful by far, Asahina-sama - so far from the wall, things must look different." Courtier 3 + Awareness 3 = 6k3 to try and figure out wtf is up. DiscipleoftheClaw fucked around with this message at May 12, 2010 around 02:52 |
| # ? May 12, 2010 02:44 |
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Asahina Ryo chuckles warmly. "My companion sees to my well being, and I to his, as men of good will shall. It is pleasing to meet you as well, Kenson-san. You are trained in the curious Kitsuki method, no? Such a strange practice to my mind, but one of great honor." Kenson can read little from this man, it is as looking into a mountain stream and seeing only what he offers reflected. The Crane were known for such capacities. Smooth and easy, with effortless grace. The Way of the Crane. Turning back to Genjo, "Excellent. We will watch it together, perhaps. I have the advantage of you, and I apologize. We have been sent as an escort of honor for your journey to our homelands. You may have the use of my estates for your stay. The temples see many travelers, and the inns are good but there is no real hospitality. The temples would host you but they are so very barren." Meanwhile, the gardener's eyes flick to the Kuni. He takes her in, and returns the bow. "Very well." He offers another glower at the Toritaka, and grunts again. It is a very expressive grunt. It is a grunt which has seen many barbarians wander out of the hills and into his gardens, and will see many more. Content to leave the errant falconer with her elder and much angrier cousin, he turns on his heel and scurries back into the brush. ATTN: Asahina, not Agasha. I have Agasha on the brain. My bad. Asahina Ryo. I fukked up! Winson_Paine fucked around with this message at May 12, 2010 around 02:57 |
| # ? May 12, 2010 02:52 |
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Yasuki Genjo "Fine company for the journey!" Genjo smiles - it would be nice to stay as their guests. Dangerous too, if the Toritaka kept up her stupidity. At least he could trust Shinjo to stay quiet. "And your family's reputation for generosity is justly deserved. I hope we can repay your generosity in kind, some day." It was a fine dance. The Hida would be disgusted by such words, of course - they had fought a war for those very lands, but now they bandied them about like they always belonged to the Crane. Which is why they fought on the Wall, and Genjo was here. Now was the time for smalltalk, to impress the Asahina. "Tell me, what is the news from the lands of the Crane? I have been close to the Wall for many weeks, visiting my cousins among the Hida. I feel like it has been years since I have heard word from the Empire's Courts." Genjo smiles, an expression between sheepishness and pride. "The news among the Hida is always much the same - the price of Rice, the price of Iron, and how the Shadowlands crash against the Carpenter Wall."
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| # ? May 12, 2010 03:16 |
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Toritaka Noriko She hisses in a low voice, "Tress it. Hood it. Bell it if you must, but another incident such as this and I will see to it that some deserving lord is begifted a fine hunting bird. You shame your family and dishonor yourself." She straightens as the lord sketches a deep bow and introduces himself. With one last parting comment ("How the spirits did not devour your very soul before your first menses I do not know; you must have the favor of some Kami.") she turns and returns the bow more fully, eyes flicking from each to each in turn as they are named, settling on the yojimbo. The white hair is... unusual, and brings to mind the spirit-touched, or ghosts. Like as not the intent. She smooths her hair as the lord shows a familiarity with Genjo's name, a spot of color in her cheeks the only outward sign of her agitation. Interesting. Or the Crane has been studying up. They have a tongue born for flattery and words like honey pour from their lips. She straightens, trying not to bristle overmuch at the casual mention of the use of his estates. His lands. Crab lands, not so long ago. Suddenly the finery seems ostentatious to her, the benevolent manner calculated. But no; she is still upset over the hawk incident. A calm heart sees the truth, a tempestuous one is blinded by the spray of its own waves. She takes a deep breath before murmuring, "Toritaka Noriko, and my less than careful cousin, Toritaka Hayatoko." She bows again. "Your offer is too generous, Asahina-sama." Her gaze flits to Genjo as she rises. "Barrenness troubles not the Crab, for he carries his home where ever he goes. Be it on his back, or in his heart."
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| # ? May 12, 2010 04:29 |
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Hiruma Shinjo The scout visibly relaxes when the girl laughs, disarming the situation with an unguarded joy. He returns bows as necessary, taking his cues from the Daidoji yojimbo. He seems to be in a similar position to himself, and no doubt understands the intricacies of courtly behavior far better than Shinjo. He cannot but wonder if this Daidoji Akio is a duelist, or if his focus lies in more run-of-the-mill fighting. He has never truly understood dueling, as such. The things he was trained to fight rarely stand still and allow you to stare at them until you are ready. Asahina Ryo seems like a very pleasant man, and Shinjo does not know whether this is because the Crane is just amiable, or some sort of courtly training to put people at ease. He decides it hardly matters, so long as he keeps his mouth shut. His daughter, Hitomi, is quite beautiful. An immaculate blue iris, she makes the garden seem like it is there merely to compliment her. Flowers do not last long on the Wall. Though perhaps that apparent fragility adds to her attraction. Hida Rin, then, is like a red maple. Perhaps not as pretty, but beautiful and strong in its own right. She would probably hit him for calling her a tree, though. Knowing Genjo, she seems to be the sort of girl he would like. A beautiful, noble lady, apparently kind and innocent. It probably does not hurt that she is a Crane. Truthfully, Shinjo feels that is far better than if he would fall for a Scorpion.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 04:35 |
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Hitomi's eyes light up at Genjo's words. "The Wall, Genjo-sama, you have seen it? Is it as fearsome as they say? It must be a terror, to be so close. Is it cold?" Her words are warm, innocent, and she does not even mark the mention of the Shadow in mixed company. "We will have time enough to talk of our dull homeland, this is as close as I have ever been to the Hida and their brooding wall, I would drink deeply of your words. The young lady's father does not skip a beat. He smiles at Noriko, a kind smile. "To travel with your home and heart as one, that is joy. Such joy I and mine would know well, if we but had the sensei. Come, come and be the guest of my hearth that my heart and that of my family will know such joy if only in reflection."
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| # ? May 12, 2010 04:38 |
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Toritaka Noriko Well, at least the offer is sincere, she realizes almost belatedly as she bows again, remembering her training. She had honestly refused the gift as both too generous and a bit of a refusal on his flippant claim to the estate; now she remembers it is customary in places with time for such things to refuse a gift twice, out of politeness. Again she marvels as the wisdom of following the tenets of bushido faithfully. Truly it will never steer her wrong. "Surely you already have such joy in your midst, Asahina-sama?" Her eyes flit pointedly to the young girl so eagerly questioning Genjo about the wall before returning to his face as she straightens. "Our revelry must needs be as tempered as our grieving for what is lost lest unfortunate ears overhear; such too is the way of the Crab, by necessity. Yet you have been free to feel so much it seems to have taken the form of the little flower we see before us, no?" She offers the girl a fond smile. Effortlessly charming, even at her tender age. Truly the Crane had society in their blood. "Joy, like beauty, is always in the eye of the beholder." She bows again, murmuring, "We would be poor teachers; it is not in our nature to be so demonstrative."
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| # ? May 12, 2010 05:07 |
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The Asahina is all but beaming at this point, "You are too kind, but I must insist you reconsider. If not for my own sake, or for yours, but for that which you show so much concern for." His eyes flick for a second to the girl. "A blade is not forged in a night, the steel is not made keen without much labor. The hands of the smith must work, but the iron will leave the forge for the tempering. What is tempering but exposure to that which is not the forge? Come and stay, you will do much honor to my name to have such esteemed diplomats beneath my roof. The monks and priests have burdens enough to understand the will of the Kami and the ways of Fortune, allow me to carry some of the load for those men. I like little the idea of distracting them from their studies with the mundane concerns of this world." Ryo finishes, and returns the bow. Through all this, his Daidoji Yojimbo is as a statue. Yet at this exchange, his eyes once again meet those of Shinjo, and there is the ghost of a smile.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 05:25 |
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Kuni Kenson "You are perspicacious, honored son of the Asahina- and well-informed. Strange practices, but an ordinary man, rest assured, desiring only the mean reward of continuance and the greater prize of peace." Entering into court society, Kenson's voice changes from the smooth, assured cadences he had previously assumed, and becomes a brook-like murmur, quiet and modest. Throughout the measured exchange between the tall, comely Toritaka and the Crane, Kenson's expression is restrained- guarded, though not hostile. The mention of his training- hardly a secret, but also not widely known- is at first unsettling, then explained- then, with reflection, unsettling again. Anyone who is aware of an ally's, or an enemy's, weapon, is better prepared to defend himself; the Kitsuki, generally speaking, possess a weapon against which there is no defense- but truthfully, there are two. The first is superior knowledge. The second is superior deception.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 06:34 |
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Toritaka Hayatoko Taking a small step back from the barrage of insults, abatements, admonishments and general advise, Hayatoko realises she's made a faue paux. A pretty spectacularly big one from all accounts, but she doesn't quite grasp what was wrong. Still, she defers to her cousins knowledge, and from the tone of her voice it was clearly a massive error. She simply looks at Nami, who hops back onto her glove and in one swift movements she hoods her bird and ties his foot to her glove. "You'll be dealt with later." She whispers to Nami. Right, that's one trouble sorted. In order of important, to her. Hayatoko begins to make amends. She turns to her cousin Toritaka Noriko and in a low voice says, "I'm so sorry. I promise I'll make this up to you. I will honestly try to make this never happen again." Advising the elderly gardener, she says, "Forgive my mistake, noble-one. I would never let such a gift of beauty and wonder be sullied by myself or this creature here. I can guarantee nothing will be harmed. I can safely say that the songbirds here will not be disturbed, and if I may add, I am very impressed at the collection. I had not seen such variety before. It would take a skilled hand to keep the collection of temperaments and diets happy at all times." Turning to the girl, Hitomi, Hayatoko bows. "I apologise for startling you. As I have been advised, I do not think ahead, and as such tend to let things get away from me!" She pointedly looks at Nami, when she say this, to try and emphasis the joke. "His name is Nami. Although right now, it should be something much more inappropriate. I am Toritaka Hayatoko, and I am very pleased to meet you." Okay, going to use Animal Handling 3 + awareness 2 to impress upon the gardener my knowledge of birds to try and defuse his anger. Going to blow a void on my non existent etiquette roll against the crane to apologise. Making it 3K3!
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| # ? May 12, 2010 10:41 |
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Toritaka Noriko She hesitates, glancing at the girl, then at the lord. To refuse now would mean insult, and that would not do; the man was obviously a powerful lord, and the Asahina possessed abilities to craft such objects of power that would greatly assist their war effort. And he had been nothing but polite. She bows again in acquiescence. "For your honor and the tempering of the blade, then, Asahina-sama. You are most gracious." She straightens, folding her hands within the folds of her robes once more and glancing uneasily to Hayatoko-chan as she speaks, wishing she had some small gift for the lord.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 13:24 |
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Kuni Chiaki Through it all he remained silent, he had been quickly briefed on the proceedings of the court but he almost felt out of place with all the bowing and politeness. At least by remaining silent he didn't get scolded like some others. But sitting quiet wasn't something he was akin to doing but by the time he realized that they were being invited to someplace they had already agreed to go. This was something he was going to have to get used to. sorry for the weak post but i'm thinking i might not have enough time for this game only being able to post once or twice a day. It's draining coming to the thread and seeing i've missed 20+ posts. Makes it impossible for my character to really do anything in the story except play the yojimbo like shugenja as i'd hold everyone up trying to strike any conversations. if that's not the case and i'm just being overly negative lemme know but i just feel like i'm either holding up the game or the game is simply moving without me. Tolio fucked around with this message at May 12, 2010 around 17:13 |
| # ? May 12, 2010 16:56 |
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Toritaka Hayatoko Noticing Noriko-chan's unease, she has a bright idea, "Asahina-sama, you do us the great honour of your gift. Let us respond in kind. While I could not bare to part with my companion here..." She points at her bird, "We have many fine birds back at our family's estate. Perhaps I could write, on your behalf, and request one of our finest as a gift for you? I'm sure a man of culture, like yourself, could appreciate the nobility and grace that you could find in a bird such as this." As if on cue, Nami spreads his wings to hold an impressive poise, before folding them again. Going to blow my last void on this one! Another 3k3 roll!
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| # ? May 12, 2010 17:14 |
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Asahina Ryo waves off the apology. "It is nothing, really. Do not concern yourself further with it." He is as sincere in this, as far as those trained to notice such things can see, and if he bears any ill will it is concealed beyond the capacities of even the Kitsuki to detect. "Gift enough is the company and joy you carry with you, on your backs, as it were." Again, that smile. It is uncanny. The girl Hitomi is all the more delighted. "Greetings to you, Nami-san," she offers with a giggle. She has seen perhaps fourteen summers, to judge. She would soon come of age, perhaps that is why she was brought along. Only a bit younger than the Crab party, after all. A curious choice. Turning to Kenson, "Your names are not unheard in the discussions at court in Shinden Asahina. This meeting has been looked forward to for some time; for it is a peaceful place whose excitements are sometimes a bit tepid. Our province sees little in the way of the glittering displays of the Doji to the north, such is the price for tending the shrines. Rest assured, you and yours are much anticipated. It was curiosity as much as duty that brought us here to meet you." Vorbis can save his last void, you don't have to roll every time you speak and I'd consider the offer part of the original roll.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 19:41 |
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Toritaka Hayatoko Nami caws through his hood and Hayatoko translates, "He says hello back." She smiles. "Asahina-sama, I thank you for your praise, however I can attest to the pure joy and happiness a companion such as Nami can give. Perhaps your daughter would be interested? I would consider it an honour to instruct her in ways of the falconer."
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| # ? May 12, 2010 20:13 |
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He shakes his head. "Your words do you great credit, Hayatoko-san, but I must refuse on her behalf. Her studies are yet incomplete, and to accept such a rich prize would be untoward." For her part, the girl looks disappointed.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 20:23 |
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Hiruma Shinjo Shinjo remains as passive as he can, giving nothing away. Not that there is really anything to give away. He is not even sure why the yojimbo smiled. Perhaps the idea of the young Hitomi as a sword? It is, perhaps, absurd. But he has heard of the Crane and Scorpion, how they can use things like beauty as the keenest of weapons. Or perhaps he knows something the scout does not. This, undoubtedly, is true. Shinjo knows he is young, and that he is inexperienced in all things not pertaining directly to his duties on and beyond the Wall. Then it occurs to him that, perhaps, this Crane finds the rules of courtly giftgiving nearly as strange as he does. He has always thought of all Cranes as courtiers, even though he knows there are those more suited to war. It had almost not occured to him that even some of them may wish to be more straightforward with their dealings. The young Hiruma realizes he is assuming quite a bit, and decides to pursue that trail of thought no further. He will merely observe, for now, and not muse upon motives he has little reason to believe exist. When one assumes circumstances, it will often color their perceptions of things to come.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 20:46 |
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Toritaka Hayatoko Thinking for a moment, Hayatoko continues, "Ah, but it would be perfect for one who has not finished their studies. Nothing focuses the mind like watching a falcon take flight. Nothing quite relaxes like the care and feeding of your companion after a long day, and I must say, nothing would be quite so stunning to others to appear with one of Nami's family with you."
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| # ? May 12, 2010 21:24 |
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Yasuki Genjo Genjo remains quiet, for a moment - so many voices shouting at once, dying to impress the Asahina. It was a disaster in slow scale, it is own way - Genjo was sure Kenson would agree. The unfocused mind was a danger - eveyone always assumed such when it came to dueling with Katanas and Generals, but no one seemed to remember when it came to speaking. Besides that, Genjo spends most of his time trying to guess the girl's age. She was younger then her beauty would first lead one to suspect. Too young by a year or more to get involved in any schemes - not that it was a question of honor for Genjo, but a question of practicality. Perhaps she had a sister back home, after all. Besides that, the fact that Hayatoko was apparently a master sensei, off teaching Crane the arts that their masters 'should' teach them, is a bit more pressing. Genjo had to feel out the situation before he made his move; a leaf tossed in a storm. Courtier 3/Perception 4 to figure out what my dude is up to. Calling count 'em TWO raises. I get +2 to the roll from my Water Ring, and I get a free raise for every raise he calls. 7k4+2.
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| # ? May 12, 2010 23:00 |
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Ryo-sama smirks, and it is genuine. Genjo takes in the man's dress, the set of his jaw, the cut of ancestors in his face. He sees an Asahina in finer silks than his cousins favor. He sees the mon of the Doji stitched, blue on blue, on his shoulder. It is exquisite. So a student of the Doji, the refined art of the courtier and the Crane. That smirk has something to it. Genuine amusement, at the very least. "Perhaps. I am not too old to not learn. Write your letter, and I thank you for your advocacy and welcome the instruction your sensei might provide." Shinjo notes the Yojimbo frowns a bit at this, but otherwise says nothing. Perception applies to noticing things, Awareness is social interactions. Still, it was a good show, so key details were noted.
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| # ? May 13, 2010 02:03 |
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Toritaka Noriko She was trying, may the Kami look favorably upon her. Glancing from the lord to the younger Toritaka, she notes he does not seem insulted. Perhaps this is why he came -- or was sent. Infinite patience with the awkward country cousins, a chance to put them on display for the bored courtiers of a relative backwater of the Empire. She tries not to bristle at the idea of being a curiosity, as if they were some strange fish that had been washed ashore from the depths alive and kept in a bowl to be stared at for amusement. He was certainly getting his koku's worth if he was looking for spectacle today. The tales he would no doubt tell his Crane friends when they were alone... She sighs lightly, snapping open her fan and waving it as she watches Genjo. He looked as if he might have swallowed a live frog when Hayatoko-chan made her bold offer. Truly they would need some time alone to speak of what was and was not proper. The uncouth shell of the Crab would only protect them for so long. And Crane were known to be able to pierce that shell and eat the ones that were too slow. Oracle fucked around with this message at May 13, 2010 around 04:43 |
| # ? May 13, 2010 03:00 |
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| # ? May 18, 2013 20:39 |
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Kuni Kenson "A gift offered in charity, accepted in courtesy, is twice over composed of golden virtue." The cadence is rhythmic, sing-song- a quotation, though not one from the Crab. The Kuni suppresses a flicker of laughter at the realization that the crane lord and himself appear to be experiencing a coincidental sympathy of feeling; both quietly amused, or so it would seem. Kenson's amusement, however, has a somewhat different source. The Crane is cognizant of the laughable aspects of the situation, no doubt- and also of the import of their mission, cloaked poorly in an inadequate group of emissaries. The Crab see the power of rumor and word, and still despise the Crane; the Crane see the power of earth and humble men, and still despise the Crab. The two ever under-estimate each other. It may be that this means, today, that the proud Crab will be decieved by the sweet-tongued Crane. And it may mean, this day, that the Crane are more honorable than the Crab could admit.
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| # ? May 13, 2010 03:48 |
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