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MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo


In the years after Bayushi Shoju became Shoju I, Emperor of Rokugan, many things changed, and many remained the same. The Clans were reordered and reorganized, and while there was peace between Great Clans, the commoners knew the depredations of bandits, ronin, and other, worse threats. Shoju I, with his Bloodsword, Ambition, by his side, became paranoid, and formed a force of secret informants and spies to monitor his Empire for traitors, conspirators, and malcontents. I, Miya Shouko, witnessed with my own eyes the suffering of the people during this period, for it was during this time that I came of age and travelled the land as one of the Miya Heralds.



The changes made by Emperor Shoju I had made many samurai unhappy, and there were many who gave up their title and status in protest, and many more who vanished in the night, victims of the Shosuro Inquisitors. And yet, even the dreaded Inquisitors could not find every possible avenue of dissent. It was in the lands of the Dragon, in the autumn of 1133, that a group of unlikely allies first formed together—at the time, their names were known only to a few, but as you are reading this chronicle, you will soon become familiar with them. Not only with the many legends which have sprung up surrounding them, but with the truth of their deeds, for it was soon to be a momentous period in the history of Rokugan.


-Excerpts from the introduction of The Scorpion Emperor: A History, by Miya Shouko.

It’s only autumn, but in the already chilly mountains of the Dragon lands, the autumn air can chill to the bone. It’s already been a month since your arrival in the court of Mirumoto Tarou, but the chill here still surprises you from time to time—even for those used to the Dragon lands, for Tarou’s court is isolated and the area inhospitable. Whatever the official reasons you were sent here, there’s no question in your minds—you’re not here to actually accomplish anything. This place is where careers go to be forgotten.

It’s not all bad, of course. With so little of importance going on, there is little pressure to perform, and the prospect of saying the wrong thing and being abducted by the Inquisitors is a distant and unlikely danger at best. For the most part, court is brief, simple, and you are largely left to your own diversions, such as can be pursued here in the mountains, at any rate. Pastimes such as painting, Shogi or Go, or composing poetry while meditating are all popular among the few courtiers assigned to this place, and you’ve found much time to broaden your own horizons.

You’ve come to know one another, at least on speaking terms, as well as many of the other inhabitants of Shiro Murakumo, Cloudsplitter Castle.

Mirumoto Tarou, your host, is an ageing samurai nearing the age of retirement. He has ruled this castle since shortly after his Gempukku, and is well-liked by his people here. He is generally a quiet man, with sad eyes—from what you understand, his beloved wife recently passed away and he has been more and more despondent since that time.

Mirumoto Chihiro, his only daughter, is a kind and soft-spoken girl just past her gempukku. Many who see her assume she is a courtier at first appearances, but when she dons her practice armor and practices her kenjutsu, it is obvious that there is steel within this girl, and a talented swordswoman besides.

Mirumoto Dai is Tarou’s cousin, a portly samurai a few years younger than his lord, but who looks older because of his weight and his thinning hair. He’s much jollier and more outspoken than his cousin or his niece, and takes great pleasure in the small things in life. He generally acts as an advisor to Tarou in court, as well as overseeing much of the daily operations at Shiro Murakumo.

Agasha Arashi is the court’s premier shugenja, a young, fierce woman who spends much time outdoors communing with nature, regardless of the weather. She’s just as likely to give a cryptic, one word response to a given question as she is to provide a direct, one word response—but she is definitely not one to speak more than absolutely necessary. She does enjoy a cup of heated sake in the evenings.

Togashi Goro is a Togashi Tattooed Monk who has been visiting the castle for a few weeks now. He hasn’t given any particular reason for his presence, and spends his days in meditation or in watching people.

There’s Gohei, an extremely elderly monk, who seems almost feeble-minded, but still plays Shogi and Go like a master.

Suibito
is an old nun, kindly and wise, who keeps the library of Mirumoto Tarou in order. She’s been there as long as anyone can remember, and most of the residents say she’s been old the whole time.

Asako Kouchi is a very nervous young Phoenix courtier. He stammers slightly, jumps if he doesn’t notice someone coming, and is generally a bundle of nerves. He’s very knowledgeable about history, and particularly in heraldry and lineages.

Doji Fuyuko is a Crane courtier, though an abrupt, haughty, and often rude one. She views her assignment to Shiro Murakumo as a punishment (which it is.) Everyone else views her assignment to Shiro Murakumo as something to be suffered through as gracefully as possible.

Kitsune Kyubi is the only person who seems to be able to put up with Doji Fuyuko’s outbursts. The young Mantis shugenja simply smiles and shrugs off the worst of Fuyuko’s abuse. She’s a talented painter, and has come to the Dragon lands to find inspiration in the breathtaking views.

There are others, of course—the heimin and eta who serve, as well as a number of itinerant monks and various samurai who are not assigned to the castle for a long term assignment, and even within a month, the relative isolation of this place and the laid back nature of the courts means that there are some who, for one reason or another, you have not had an opportunity to meet.

On this particular autumn morning, though, there is an unusual amount of activity here, for arrangements are being made for an upcoming visit—Arrangements for Chihiro to marry have just been in the works for some months now, and her prospective bridegroom is coming to Shiro Murakumo to finalize the arrangements. Heimin and eta servants bustle about the normally calm courtyard, cleaning long-neglected areas and generally making sure all will be in order for the arrival of his entourage. Many of the other inhabitants, with no other immediate duties, are in the courtyard, observing—it’s something different, which is at least novel here. What will you be doing at this time?

(Also, please post your character sheets in this thread to help keep me sane)

MollyMetroid fucked around with this message at 03:53 on Jun 23, 2013

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MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
For clarity, the entourage has not arrived yet.

The relative peace of the courtyard--for even in the bustle of preparations, there is a certain rhythm and calm--is suddenly interrupted by Doji Fuyuko stalking into the center of the area, an expression of pure rage twisting her face. Kitsune Kyubi trails after her, protesting ineffectually.

"Where is the filthy rat? I demand that someone find it and drag it out here to tell me where it's hidden my pearl comb!"

Tekre, you definitely didn't take any such thing.

Fuyuko looks around, and spots Tekre. "You! Ratling! I demand that you return my property, at once! It's not for the likes of your filthy paws to handle!"

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Fuyuko takes a deep breath, and behind her you see Kitsune Kyubi surreptitiously cover her ears.

"How dare you imply that I'm losing my temper over something trivial! I'll have you know, I've asked around and all manner of precious items have been going missing of late! Why, Agasha-san confided in me that someone had stolen a vital ingredient to one of her experiments just the other day, one that she had procured at great cost! Well she may be willing to remain silent and arrange for a replacement, but my pearl comb is irreplaceable and--"

Her tirade is interrupted by an unmistakable sound--the sound of hoofbeats coming up the mountain approach. The entourage of Chihiro's bridegroom is not scheduled to arrive for another few days, though, and so far as any of you know, they're the only scheduled arrivals to such a remote castle.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Fuyuko regards all of you with disgust, but is spared the need to respond by the arrival of the unexpected visitors. A group of mounted bushi in Scorpion colors march into the courtyard, escorting a richly dressed Scorpion woman bearing the Shosuro mon. She wears a mask concealing her entire face, designed to look like a cat. One of the bushi dismounts and helps her down. She casts her gaze around the courtyard, taking everything in. Another of her escort catches one of the heimin by the arm and curtly instructs him to inform Mirumoto Tarou of the arrival of his mistress. The terrified heimin nods once and dashes off into the castle interior.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Daitomu & Itaru

You recognize this woman from descriptions you've heard as Shosuro Shizuka, one of the Shosuro Inquisitors. While she is notorious and the organization to which she belongs is viewed with dread, her own reputation is one of kindness and mercy--petty disloyalty does not interest her, and generally she overlooks it. She's discovered incontrovertible proof of several major conspiracies in the past, though, and the perpetrators are dealt with swiftly--but at least openly, unlike those seized by many of her comrades.

Tekre

The newcomers are dressed in spiffy red and black outfits, with shiny belt-buckles and swords. They seem to be more of a ceremonial guard than a bartering force--they're all dressed just about the same, and they all seem to have the same equipment. Except for the lady in the cat mask, anyway. She's got a small box in her hands, carved with beautiful engravings.

Asano, Haruka, Win

You're not familiar enough with specific Scorpion to know who this particular one is, but from her garb and the way she carries herself you can tell she's someone important. You see Kitsune Kyubi and Doji Fuyuko both looking at her with some concern, however.

Everyone

Mirumoto Tarou emerges shortly from within, and bows formally. "Shosuro-san, what an unexpected pleasure to see you visit my humble dwelling. I hope your travels through the difficult mountain paths were not unduly troublesome."

Shosuro returns the bow. "Not at all, Mirumoto-sama," she responds. "As ever, the rugged beauty of your lands more than makes up for any difficulty crossing them." She looks around. "I see I am not your only guest at this time, however..."

(I'm going to cut the conversation here in case anyone wants to interject or react while it continues, also because I simply despise dialogues between two NPCs.)

MollyMetroid fucked around with this message at 04:10 on Jan 29, 2013

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win, Tekre

Fuyuko hisses at you. "Oh do hush. The filthy creature has likely hidden it in some little nest--but for Heaven's sake now is hardly the time to deal with this nonsense."

Haruka, Itaru

The Scorpion woman bows slightly in acknowledgement. "I am Shosuro Shizuka. It is always a pleasure to make the acquaintance of promising young samurai such as yourselves. Ah, I see Doji Fuyuko-san is here as well, and upset about something. I do hope it's nothing too serious."

She turns to Tarou, opening up the box in her hands and offering the contents for him to see. "A trifle for you, Mirumoto-san--a fan decorated with an image of mountains. I saw it, and was reminded of your home..."

After the traditional process of refusals has been observed, Mirumoto accepts the gift and, after commanding one of the servants to see to accommodations for Shizuka's honor guard, withdraws with the Shosuro to continue in private.

Kitsune Kyubi lets out an explosive breath once the Scorpion have cleared the courtyard. "What do you suppose she's come out all this way for? Do you think--"

"Don't be ridiculous!" Fuyuko interrupts her, waving a fan dismissively. "Clearly none of us would be so crass as to be conspiring against the Emperor..." Her expression isn't as confident as her words--she's definitely worried, and it doesn't take a skilled courtier to see it.

MollyMetroid fucked around with this message at 05:17 on Jan 29, 2013

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Tekre, Win

"Can it even speak a civilized language?" Fuyuko turns to Tekre, sneering, and speaks very slowly. "You. Are. A. Filthy. Thief. Return. My. Belongings. At. Once."

Kyubi looks mortified. "Doji-san...don't you think that's a little too much? She clearly has no idea what you're talking about. There's plenty of other possibilities...I know! We could ask Haruka-san to commune with the kami and ask them if Tekre was the one who stole your comb!"

Fuyuko looks pensive. "That's not a bad idea...and when the truth comes out, we can see this filthy beast thrown out of here!"

Fuyuko pointedly ignores Win throughout this exchange.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Haruka

Fuyuko calms down, somewhat. "It was in my room, of course. Thank you for your assistance, Moshi-san, it is most appreciated. In truth, I understand that such things are transitory, but this particular comb once belonged to my great-great-grandmother, who received it from the Emperor himself as a gift for her great beauty and charm, which I have of course inherited. It is truly more sentimental in value than anything else, and I would be quite saddened to lose it. I shall be awaiting your arrival." She turns and sweeps away, ignoring the two monks and the nezumi entirely.

Everyone

The atmosphere in the castle has shifted noticeably from one of anticipation and preparation to one of dread and fear. The arrival of the Scorpion in the midst of what was to be a celebration has definitely put a damper on things. Mirumoto Dai emerges from within the castle, spying the group of you, and approaches.

"I hesitate to intrude on the valuable time of our honored guests, but there is something I would discuss with you all--privately. I cannot force you, but if you would, please join me at the top of the observation tower in three hours time." Saying nothing further to you, he bows, and goes over to one of the Dragon bushi who guard the gates, dressed in full armor--you have all met him a few times in passing, and know his name to be Kenji, though his duties and yours have not intersected frequently enough for you to know much more about him. Dai speaks to Kenji quietly, and the latter nods once in understanding.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Haruka, Asano

Fuyuko is impatiently waiting for you when you arrive. Her chambers are a stark contrast to the rest of the austere fortress, being almost over-decorated, like something you'd expect more from a Yoritomo than a Doji.

"How long is this going to take?" she demands. "I have a lot to do, you know." She eyes Asano suspiciously. "And why are you here? Do you need something?"

This shouldn't take long, and once it's cleared up I'll move on to the tower thing.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

Togashi Goro isn't hard to find--he's seated in the lotus position atop the wall to the courtyard, apparently meditating. When you approach, he opens one eye.

"Win-san. Interesting conversation with the ratling. The Doji, though, is a lost cause."

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Haruka

You are readily able to commune with one of the fire spirits in the area.

"What do you want?" comes its irritated question. "I'm very busy, you know."

The incense lights itself, which is all the others in the room see happening--they cannot hear the voice of the Kami you are communing with.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Haruka

The fire spirit responds with what comes across to you as a snort.

"That's all you want to know? Hah. A mujina took it, and threw it in the stream."

The spirit's presence fades as it departs.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Haruka, Asano

Asano, you see no sign of any evidence, though Haruka's explanation that a mujina is causing the trouble would seem to explain that quite soundly.

Fuyuko isn't happy with this answer at all. "A what?! Why would it target me? Are you sure? I want a second opinion--I bet you're just trying to keep me from blaming that filthy rat!"

This continues as you take your leave, and you can hear her shrieking all the way up the hall.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Asano

Fuyuko seems mollified somewhat. "Well...I suppose that makes sense. Still--I suppose I must send the servants to search the streambed for my comb now. This is such a trying assignment, Ikoma-san...why, between the rat-thing, the bizarre monks, and the rest, it is almost like we two are the only civilized people here..."

She flutters her eyelashes at you.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Asano

Fuyuko shakes her head sadly. "I'm afraid I know little more than you do at this point. Soshis and Shosuros, I just can't keep them all straight, I'm sorry to say!" She giggles in a flirtatious manner, but you can tell she's not joking.

This Doji is bad at being a Doji.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

"The Scorpion are all too fond of playing games within games. Is she as she appears, or does she disguise her true nature? Is the disguise merely another layer, to conceal that she is in fact as she appears? When one peels away all the layers, will there be anything left at all?" Goro shrugs. "These are the things one could ponder for a lifetime. And yet, they are not what I ponder."

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

The enigmatic Togashi smiles. "Twenty pounds of millet, and a juicy peach." He closes his eyes again and begins mumbling, repeating a passage of the Tao under his breath. You've seen him like this before, and will almost certainly get no more answers from him until he's finished his meditations.

Haruka

You converse with Kyubi as you traverse the halls of Shiro Murakumo, but with Lord Tarou involved in private discussions with the unexpected Shosuro visitor, it would be difficult to gain access to him just now. As for Agasha Arashi, you are informed by her heimin assistant that she has departed the castle to seek certain herbs in the mountains to replace those she had lost, and will likely not be back until late this evening.

Everyone

The appointed time for the meeting with Mirumoto Dai draws near. Unless anyone else has any immediate business, or was specifically intending to sit this out...you make your way to the observation tower. It is the tallest structure on the grounds of Shiro Murakumo. The ground level is constructed of stone, with higher floors made of wood. An interior set of stairs winds up around the tower, leading to a top floor largely open around the sides, featuring a breathtaking view of the castle and the surrounding mountains. There's a small easel and a set of pigments and brushes tucked off to one side where Kitsune Kyubi has stored them, with permission, to avoid having to lug them up and down the many stairs.

Mirumoto Dai is already present, alone, when you arrive. It's fairly chilly in this tower, but he seems to be perspiring slightly. Nerves? He greets you all politely, though somewhat subdued.

MollyMetroid fucked around with this message at 20:49 on Jan 30, 2013

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
After all of you have arrived, along with Kitsune Kyubi (though Fuyuko is, blessedly, absent), Mirumoto Dai stands.

"Thank you all for coming...I understand that the circumstances of my invitation must seem suspicious, and I wish to assure you that I have only the most honorable of intentions here." He begins to pace.
"Over the next few days you may see and hear things that seem strange, and I do not ask any of you to go against your conscience. However, due to the circumstances at hand, I am not at liberty to disclose to all of you the truth of what is to come, at least, not yet. I must ask that you trust me, and trust that we, the Dragon, have not taken leave of our senses nor are we engaging in any dishonorable behavior. All will be explained in ti--"

It is at this moment that Mirumoto Dai trips over something unseen, and, with a surprised yelp, tumbles headlong out of the tower. A moment later, there is a sickening crunch from below, and before you realize it, all Jigoku breaks loose.

Edit: Cirno I'm assuming Asano was present for this as well, I just wanted to get it out there.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
There was nobody else in the room other than the six of you and Kitsune Kyubi--and the late Mirumoto Dai, of course. No out of place scents, either. By all appearances, this is nothing more than a tragic accident...

Of course, convincing the Dragon guards who are already at the gate of the tower when Haruka reaches the bottom, or the Scorpion bushi who have reacted quickly as well, may be another matter entirely. Worst of all is the sight of Shosuro Shizuka and Mirumoto Tarou emerging from the castle proper, a frown crossing Tarou's features. Shizuka's expression is, of course, entirely unreadable thanks to her mask.

"How strange," she observes in a quiet voice which somehow still manages to carry across the courtyard. "A suicide? Or a murder? And so soon after my arrival...I wonder, Tarou-san, should I be concerned?" Her tone is light, almost amused, but there is a definite threat behind her words.

"We shall of course get to the bottom of this at once," Tarou stammers. "Any witnesses shall be questioned, and the cause of this...this tragedy..." He looks shaken by the loss of his relative, and Shizuka's presence definitely isn't making it any easier for him.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Oh that's right. I meant to post this as well...

Everyone, you get 10 XP.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Cirno you may want to go back and read what happened there...

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
You're all escorted to the base of the tower by the guards momentarily, those who had not already come down. Mirumoto Tarou is clearly upset, but speaks without allowing it to show in his voice.

"Please do not speak further at this time," he begins, glancing at Haruka. "You will have an opportunity to explain what happened, but separately, individually. For the time being, you will each be escorted to your quarters here, where you will remain until such time as we are prepared to hear your testimony, after which we will be returning you to your quarters. I apologize for the inconvenience this causes you, my honored guests, but I must be certain of this, as I am sure you can understand."

He takes a deep breath before continuing.

"None of you are being accused of any wrongdoing at this time. Until we have a firmer grasp on the situation, we simply wish to ensure that nobody is able to contaminate the testimony that may be provided."

Shizuka steps forward. "Mirumoto-sama, may I offer my services in assisting with collecting testimony? It would allow you to proceed with more haste and allow your guests to resume their normal routines that much sooner..."

Tarou hesitates, then nods. "I cannot think of any good reason to refuse," he answers.

At this point, each of you is escorted to your quarters. To expedite things, I'd like to ask everyone to give their testimony about the events in the tower, which will be taken to be what you tell either Tarou or Shizuka, when you are asked to testify. Haruka, Itaru, and Daitomu will be questioned by Shizuka, and the rest by Tarou.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
After the testimonies have been given, it's not long before you are all summoned again before Mirumoto Tarou. Shosuro Shizuka is also present, though she stays off to one side while Tarou speaks.

"It is clear both from your testimonies and the investigations of my men that foul play was not the cause of my cousin's death. You are all cleared of suspicion, and have my most sincere apologies for holding you until we could be certain. This is clearly a simple tragic accident, nothing more."

As Tarou finishes, Shizuka straightens, shaking her head.

"I'm afraid, Mirumoto-sama, that while I agree with the first part of your assessment--that Mirumoto Dai's death was a tragic accident--I cannot agree that it was nothing more than that. Both Moshi Haruka and Moto Daitomu referred to a guard, Mirumoto Kenji by name, in their testimonies, and the matter for which Dai-san had assembled such a...diverse...group is still unclear." She pauses, glancing at the lot of you for a moment. "Not, of course, that I suspect that you are guilty of any conspiracy. However, there is certainly much suspicious about the circumstances surrounding the man's death, if not the death itself. I should very much like to speak to this guard, Kenji, if I may."

Tarou has blanched slightly, but indicates to a servant to fetch the guard you all witnessed Dai speaking to. The servant rushes off, and you are left waiting with your host and the Scorpion inquisitor.

Haruka

Your divination is unclear, as though there are masks upon masks upon masks.

MollyMetroid fucked around with this message at 04:19 on Feb 1, 2013

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Though you can't see her face, the tone of Shizuka's reply makes it clear she is smiling.

"I have always loved the mountains here. When I was a child my father was assigned as a courtier in Dragon lands, and when I return here, it always feels a little bit like coming home. My business here is also far more pleasant than my usual--despite what everyone may have imagined, I was actually sent here to offer my congratulations to young Mirumoto Chihiro and Kitsuki Kenta on the occasion of their engagement. This unfortunate tragedy will not, I hope, cast too great a pall on the proceedings, for it is all too infrequent that I am given a chance to socialize without needing to ferret out secrets."

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Shizuka regards Tekre. "That's quite a canny observation, though I think grasping at straws. It is most likely that if the responsibility for Dai-san's death is to be laid at the feet of any entity, it would be the mujina Haruka-san mentioned. The real question is what Dai-san wanted to gather you all in such a place for. I mean no disrespect, nor to dishonor one departed from this realm, but I can think of very few reasons for the timing and nature of his request so soon after I, a known Inquisitor, arrived. And this guard, Kenji--who apparently is taking quite some time to locate--what was his role in this?"

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
The flustered servant returns just after Win finishes speaking, before anyone can respond. He bows cringingly and repeatedly, as if he fears punishment for bringing bad news.

"The guard Mirumoto Kenji is nowhere to be found, my lord! He was last seen several hours ago, when he was relieved of his shift at the gates."

Shizuka sighs. "Tarou-sama, I'm afraid I can't but think that this points to some fairly unpleasant implications. Would you care to offer some possible explanation?"

Tarou frowns, but then nods as if in understanding. "I believe I can. I had asked Dai to see to it that our guests would be advised of your presence here--strictly to ensure that there were no unexpected surprises, of course. This negotiation has been a delicate one, and I mean no offense when I say that my daughter's potential groom arriving to the unexpected presence of an Inquisitor could have been taken quite the wrong way. Evidently, the method Dai used to fulfil my request was to send Kenji, presumably due to the absence of our shugenja, Agasha Arashi, at the time."

Shizuka shakes her head slowly. "Such it is to be in my position that one can never expect to be welcome anywhere she goes...and yet, you must understand what this looks like to me. However, I will do my best to overlook the irregularity of all of this, since I did not come here to seek treason."

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Tarou raises an eyebrow.

"A most unusual request. I can see no harm in it, however." He beckons for a servant, who leads you to a small, spartan chamber, in the guard barracks.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

You are able to track his path to the stables, and from there--fainter, mixed with horse--out the front gate. Wherever he went, he hasn't returned.

Everyone

Agasha Arashi enters the room where you're all discussing. She looks upset. "Dai-san?" she asks. Tarou shakes his head.

"drat," Arashi sighs. "How?"

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

The trail goes for quite a way, how long will you follow it?

Haruka

Arashi frowns. "A mujina? Hmm."

She's a quiet one.

Mirumoto Tarou frowns as well. "I think, for the moment, it would be best to leave the tracking to Win-san, or at least wait for word. There's no benefit to all of us standing about, waiting. For now, let us return to our daily business as best we can..."

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Just for clarification, Mirumoto Dai iswas Chihiro's uncle, not her father. She's Mirumoto Tarou's daughter. Shosuro Shizuka actually never met with Dai specifically. I've seen a few posts mixing that up so I wanted to clear it up some.

Kitsune Kyubi, who has been silent till now, speaks up in response to Daitomu's question. "Moshi-san was able to determine by communing with the kami that a mujina was responsible for the rash of thefts that has been taking place. As I need hardly tell you, the mujina are known for their very...physical sense of humor, and watching someone trip and fall would be exactly the kind of prank they would enjoy. Of course, mujina are not well known for their foresight...I doubt we'll hear from it again, they dislike death intensely and it has probably already departed."

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

You follow the trail for several hours. You're about to give up and head back when you hear horses from up ahead, and moments later a group of Dragon samurai ride into view, heading towards Shiro Murakumo. Among them, you see (and smell) the guard Kenji.

They seem unsurprised to see a Togashi monk sniffing at the ground, and hail you politely.

"Good evening, Togashi-san. What task brings you to this part of the mountains? Is there anything that we simple samurai can provide assistance with?"

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

The group listen to your tale, then sit quietly for a few moments.

Then Kenji speaks up. "Hey, I know you, you're Togashi Win. Weren't you staying at Shiro Murakumo?"

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

They regard you for a few moments as if expecting some anecdote of wisdom or enlightenment, then Kenji clears his throat.

"Dai-sama sent me out to escort our esteemed visitors to the castle, so that we could be certain everything would proceed smoothly. Would you care to join us for the remainder of the journey back?"

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

"What is it you seek? We may be able to help."

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Win

They bow, and Kenji introduces you to the group. Kitsuki Kenta is a young man of about 24, with eyes that somehow seem older, as if they've seen things most people wouldn't understand. His yojimbo, Mirumoto Haru, is a scruffy looking samurai who you'd expect to be on a musha shugyo rather than a nobleman's bodyguard, to look at him. There are four more low ranking Kitsuki samurai, named Ichiro, Nishi, Sanjuro, and Yoichi. Also present are a small number of heimin attendants, who nobody bothers to introduce and who don't seem bothered by it.

"We intend to continue on to Shiro Murakumo," Kitsuki Kenta tells you. "Would you like to join us, or will your search continue into the night?"

Itaru

You find a servant relatively easily to deliver the letters. Shortly, you are delivered a letter from Chihiro in response, a politely worded thanks for your concern on heavy paper. Attached to it is a single pale violet flower.

Tekre

As everyone disperses from the hall, the Scorpion woman approaches you. "Nezumi-san, please, may I have a word with you? I have met so few of your people and I'd very much like to learn more of your culture."

Haruka

As you stand in the afternoon sun, Togashi Goro approaches you. "It is written, don't stare at it too long, you'll go blind," he says.

Daitomu

As everyone disperses, Kitsune Kyubi draws nearer to you. "Unicorn-san...I have heard that we of the Fox cl--formerly of the Fox clan, I suppose--are cousins to the Unicorn, those who remained behind after Shinjo led the majority of the clan outside the borders of Rokugan. I admit, I am not well versed in history...do you know of this? I should like to know more of the ways of the Unicorns if we are cousins in truth."

Asano

You're hanging back and observning most of this go on, when Doji Fuyuko wanders into the hall to speak to Tarou about having his servants dredge the streambed for her comb. She spots you and acknowledges your presence with a gesture of her fan.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Tekre

The mask conceals the Scorpion's face, but her body language is clear. She tilts her head to one side, curious. "Did something happen to your tribe?"

Win

Kitsuki Yoichi answers. "There's the usual rumors that Toturi the Black is raising an army of ronin, but if he is, he hasn't been able to accomplish much with them, if you ask me. I also heard, from a Crab bushi acting as yojimbo to one of their courtiers, that there's whispered rumors about some sort of dark tactician who's leading the Shadowlands these days, though there's been no evidence of it. He said it's something the older Crabs are talking about among themselves, but only the ones who're actually seeing the day to day battles on the Wall. He seemed pretty happy to be away."

Itaru, Asano

Belated answer: that roll won't cover a reply. Since the two of you are engaged in conversation, I'll leave you to it till something changes the situation there.

Haruka

Togashi Goro smiles enigmatically. "Is it truly late, or is it early? Who decides? Are you even sure that time is real? Maybe it is, maybe it isn't. Did you know, the nezumi believe that we're facing Yesterday, and that we're being chased by Tomorrow?" He shrugs. "Ask Tekre-san about it sometime."

Daitomu

Your harsh response seems to take Kyubi by surprise, and she steps back. "I...I understand that, but there's nothing I can do for poor Dai-san, and...I was trying to take my mind off it! Who wants to think about death all the time?! It's unpleasant!"

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Tekre

She nods as if she understands. "I believe I can see where this is going. And so you have left them, or been made to leave? It must be hard for you. I did not mean to bring up difficult memories, and I apologize."

Please give me a Perception/Investigation roll!

Edit edit:
Haruka

Goro smiles again. "It is neither the beauty of the Lady Sun nor the pale reflection of Lord Moon that I wish to contemplate, but rather the alignment and relative positions of the other heavenly bodies, namely the stars, in order to see what message they might have for those who have eyes to see."

MollyMetroid fucked around with this message at 09:05 on Feb 6, 2013

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Haruka

Goro regards you for a moment. "Sometimes a mask is hiding that there is nothing there to conceal."

Tekre

Between the fact that humans aren't the easiest for you to read in the first place and that this one is wearing a mask, you're having a hard time understanding her motivation. She does audibly sigh, though. "Do you miss your tribe, Tekre-san? If it is too forward a question, I apologize."

Win

They agree that haste is called for, and you're soon underway. Kenji seems to notice you eyeing him, but has no idea what he may have done to warrant it, and seems to decide that it's easiest just to ignore your behavior for the moment.

Daitomu

Kyubi stammers out an apology, and makes an excuse for having to be somewhere else.

MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Tekre

The Scorpion woman bows. "Then I shall not inquire further. Thank you for your time, Tekre-san."

Courtyard, a bit later that evening

Shortly before sunset, the Kituski party, with Win accompanying them, arrives at Shiro Murakumo. Mirumoto Tarou is soon informed (along with everyone else, since news travels quickly) and heads out to greet them formally. On seeing Win and the guard, Kenji, he raises an eyebrow questioningly.

Shosuro Shizuka, having retired to her assigned quarters, has not yet emerged into the courtyard.

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MollyMetroid
Jan 20, 2004

Trout Clan Daimyo
Courtyard

Mirumoto Kenji looks confused. "My lord Tarou, is there something amiss with my performance?" he asks.

"You were not told?" Tarou says, surprised. "The monk, Togashi Win, sought you out--I thought he would have mentioned. My cousin, Dai, fell to his death this afternoon, and shortly after speaking to you."

The blood drains from Kenji's face. "My lord, I had no knowledge of this--surely none are accusing me of being party to his death? The last he spoke to me was to ask me to seek the honorable guests on the road and advise them of our other visitor, that they may be prepared with a gift and be able to avoid giving offense..."

Kitsuki Kenta steps forward, placing a hand on Kenji's shoulder.

"Father," he begins, speaking to Tarou, "and I hope it is not premature of me to name you so, I can vouch that all is as Kenji-san has said, at least in what he told me when he found my party on the road. I was most pleased and honored at the foresight of your late cousin, and had hoped to give him my personal thanks..."

I don't want to give you guys like, pages of dialogue between these two without giving you chances to speak up and participate in the conversation. Please, don't feel like this is a closed discussion between the NPCs.

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