And I'm back! I need to catch up with all of my games, but I hope to have a post up by tonight!
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Nagasawa Investigation (Notice)/Perception TN 20: You notice that Noburo shoots a glare at Bayushi Tatsukoro, the leader of the Scorpion Clan's presence at Kyuden Hida.
Yuo & Ameiko:
Akiko doesn't seem intimidated by Yuo's terse replies. "My cousin tells me that swords have names. Does yours?"
Keiyomi continues speaking to Ameiko. "I don't think so, but this is a special day." The Unicorn maiden leans in, dropping the volume of her voice. "Ameiko-san, I feel as if we are friends? May I ask you a favor?" Ameiko Perception (Notice)/Investigation DC 15:
You notice that Keiyomi is keeping her eye on Takaji, and she seems to become slightly agitated when he is approached by a Scorpion woman. Nagasawa:
Saki laughs. "I have some experience, although I can't say I've ever done it for fun. I even have the scars to prove it." She shoots you a look that seems to say but you know where those are.
If Noburo saw the look, he doesn't say anything. He visually relaxes and some of the tension falls out of the air. The Phoenix lets out a small sigh. "I apologize for being defensive, Nagasawa-san. I am just unwilling to listen to any more insinuations about the lady Isawa." Takaji & Katsuko:
The conversation lulls for a moment, but is rescued by the arrival of another person. She wears a traditional black and red kimono of the Scorpion, but instead of a mask, her face is covered in thick paint that distracts the eyes. She wears the Shosuro mon.
"My apologies, Wataru-sama, but may I borrow your Lion friend?" The Emerald Magistrate nods, barely looking at the Scorpion newcomer. If Takaji Leaves to Speak with the Newcomer: With Takaji gone, Wataru focuses on Katsuko. How fares your assignment, Katsuko-san?"
GM Screen:
[spoiler=Nagasawa]Noburo visibly stiffens when he hears Mutsuye's name. "I have that honor, yes." he replies. "Any skill of mine, I owe to my sensei. Their training is why I am here." Yuo & Ameiko:
Yuo's response is apparently all Akiko needed. She immediately descends into a breathless, stream-of-conscious conversation. "You're so lucky. Kage-sama seems like a wonderful man and husband. Plus, he's so romantic. Like Kakita pillow-book romantic. Can you believe he already sent her a kimono in Crab colors? He must have made it specially for her because it's all silk and gold, and I mean, for him to think of that when he doesn't even have any lands! And when her dad wouldn't let him visit for more than four hours, he pitched a tent outside her window. And he's so sincere. Not like Scorpion sincere, but like, Mutsuye gave him her fan, and then he went off to the Crane court, and he was still carrying it when she saw him in Otosan Uchi the next month, and oh," she exclaims as Kuhime delivers a light kick to her ankle. Akiko smiles sheepishly. "I'm so sorry. I just start talking and I can't stop. You're frowning. Don't leave. We could talk about...um...swords. Men like swords, right?"
"Oh, it's nothing you'd recognize, Doji-san." Keiyomi smiles sweetly. "It's a traditional dance of the Unicorn. I think that Kage-sama will be judging the event." Ameiko Opposed Awareness/Courtier (Manipulation) vs. Keiyomi TN 8:
Your Doji training picks up on subtle hints from Keiyomi. She wants something from you, but is too afraid to ask. Takaji & Katsuko:
"Takaji-san, your decision should be decided upon whichever dance you think most artfully captures and interprets the subject of the dance." If Takaji still looks lost, Wataru smiles. "Or just make it up as best you can. It's served me well so far."
He looks to Katsuko. "Hai. Kuhime-chan will be performing tonight, she has been practicing a traditional Phoenix dance called The Wind in the Pines for months now." Daigo: The old man bobs his head up and down. "Of course, my lord, of course. Which room would you like to see first?"
Yuo & Ameiko:
Akiko can barely suppress her grin, which erupts with a hushed gasp. "Hooomygoodness, do you know Kage-sama?" Her companion, Kuhime, looks aghast, but says nothing. Apparently her interest in the subject overrides her sense of etiquette.
Ameiko returns in the middle of this scene. Keiyomi, the young Ide girl, smiles at the Crane. "I would not worry about that. At least not with me. I've prepared something few outside the Unicorn know." Nagasawa:
Sachiko snorts when you flatter Saki. "Little slip of a girl like that? Hardly a warrior. Want to see some real fighters? Come up to the top of the Wall and I'll show you." Before anybody has a chance to respond, she stomps away and begins aggressively flirting with a group of Hida.
Saki watches the enormous Crab beauty walk away with a smirk. "Well she's something, isn't she?" The Phoenix bows and nods. "Thank you, Nagasawa-san. Saki-san. My name is Shiba Noburu." He scratches the back of his head and smiles. "I'm afraid my training didn't prepare me for the likes of her." Noburu is a young man with an honest face and a strong chin. He wears his stubble well and you are forced to admit he possesses a certain rugged handsomeness. "I cannot speak as to how I will do today. Surely whatever victory I win will not be because of the arrows I fire today, but the thousands I have shot before them." Daigo: The man bows again, lower than before. "You speak too kindly, samurai-sama. We serve however we can. But let me assure you that we came to no trouble on the road. And nothing has seemed out of sorts with those we serve." The peasant is either telling the truth or is one of the most gifted liars you've ever met.
Nagasawa:
Hida Sachiko stands nearly a head taller than the Shiba. She uses it to her advantage, bullying the space around the Phoenix and looming over him. Despite her size and menacing body language, she is undeniably beautiful. Her spiked armor does little to hide the muscular curves of her body or the size of her bust. Emerald green eyes sparkle above high cheek bones and full lips. The Crab turns to regard the newcomers. "Nagasawa-san!" She gives Saki a crude grin. "Who's this, lover boy?" You can sense Saki stiffen behind you. Daigo:
The old man appears horrified. "The Taint? Fortune's above! We had no troubles on the way here. Nothing odd at all." He bows low. "Have we done something to cause suspicion? I will submit to the jade if my lord demands it." Daigo Investigation (Interrogation)/Perception TN 10:
These peasants seem to be telling the truth. Katsuko & Takaji:
"I have the utmost confidence in the Crab's protection, Takaji-san. They have stood at the Wall for a very long time." Wataru turns to Katsuko. "That is considerate, but will not be necessary. The ritual must be completed alone." The Emerald Magistrate changes subjects. "Are either of you participating in the dance?" Ameiko:
Kurako smiles and nods. "Of course, Ameiko-san. Might I know the name of the dance you are to perform so I can announce it properly?" Yuo: As you watch Ameiko talk to Kurako, you feel a presence behind you. Spinning around, it is only Isawa Akiko. "I'm sorry, Hida-san, but I must ask. Have you fought an oni?" Her friend, Kuhime, rolls her eyes at Akiko, but says nothing.
Nagasawa:
Saki grins enthusiastically. "I'll do what I can, although I can't imagine I'll be of much help while watching over Toshimitsu-sama and his family. Keiyomi-chan is especially worrisome. It's her first real court and she swears that she knows the ways of the world..." She trails off, biting her lip. "Forgive me, Nagasawa. I'm rambling."
She nods to the lone Shiba bushi in the competition. A massive Crab samurai-ko looms over him talking loudly and gesturing with her hands. It's hard to be sure, but the conversation seems fairly one-sided and quite lewd. "Is that our man?" Saki asks. Ameiko & Yuo:
The young Ide girl grins and bows. She's pretty, in a barbaric sort of way. Her kimono doesn't even have any sleeves! "All three of us will be performing, Doji-san. If you are interested, you should speak with Yasuki Kurako. She's just over there." The Unicorn gestures at the nervous Yasuki courtier that brought you to Kisada's chamber earlier.
Asako Kuhime holds a fan up to cover her mouth. "I think I speak for the court when I say that you should absolutely participate, Doji-san. It is known that the Crane possess some of the finest performers in the Empire. Surely that reputation holds some weight." The younger Phoenix girl, Isawa Akiko, continues to stare at Yuo. Kuni Daigo:
You find the Phoenix servants fairly easily, as they are currently preparing the rooms for their Clan in Kyuden Hida. When they notice a samurai in their midst, they bow low. An older man looks to you, careful not to meet your eyes. "How might we be of service, Crab-sama?" Takaji & Katsuko: Wataru nods at Takaji's words. "That is my hope as well, Takaji-san. Hopefully, I pray that your vigilance will simply be a formality. Anything else would not bode well for our young lovers." His gaze lingers on the Hiruma daimyo, surrounded by friends and well-wishers.
His focus turns to Katsuko. "She will not. Mutsuye-chan is visiting a local shrine to commune with her ancestors. It could take some time. Her grandmother was a pacifist and expected Mutsuye to marry an artist." The Emerald Magistrate smiles slightly. "I would not expect her back until the evening."
Ameiko & Yuo:
The three girls, for that is what they are now that you get a moment to look at them, bow to Ameiko and Yuo's approach. The two Phoenix are Isawa Akiko and Asako Kuhime. Akiko is 13 and excited. She speaks in a breathy, high-pitched voice, and looks everywhere but people's eyes. "Oh, hello, Doji-san. There are several that I know of. There's me, uh... Kuhime-san, Keiyomi-san," she indicates to the young Ide standing with them, "A, ah... Scorpion..." Akiko trails off, staring at Hida Yuo.
Kuhime kicks Akiko's ankle lightly to break her from her reverie. "Will you be performing later, Doji-san?" the older Phoenix asks politely. Katsuko & Takaji:
Isawa Hikaru finishes speaking with Hiruma Kage, who takes a seat of honor before the dance floor. He lingers a moment on Kage and then turns to you. "Ah, Katsuko-san. I understand you were called to speak with Kisada-sama. I trust you represented the Phoenix well?" He looks at Takaji with an approving eye. "Is this the yojimbo the Lion provided? He looks capable." Nagasawa: Saki leans in, a cunning smile playing across her lips. "What did you have in mind? I tend to like your secrets."
The Archery Competition:
As you are scanning the lists for Shiba Noburo, Otaku Saki approaches you. Some distance away, you can see Nari regarding the pair of you with a cool eye while she discusses something with Shinjo O-Shimo.
She smells like leather, grass, and road dust, like the open plains of the Unicorn provinces. "I had no idea that you would be here, Nagasawa-san." Doji Ameiko:
Shinjo Nagasawa:
There are actually five events in the competition: stationary target, stationary target based on artistic appeal, speed shooting stationary target, inuri mono, and the 'duel.' The first three are intended to allow for courtiers, shugenja, and children, with the last two informally considered appropriate for bushi.
Inuri mono, while undeniably cruel to the dogs involved, is designed to minimize the pain inflicted. That's why they use blunted arrows. Almost all samurai use it as practice for hitting moving targets. Interestingly, it was banned as a sport in Japan in 1881 when Buddhists realized that scaring and hurting dogs didn't jive with the whole zen thing. :) Finally, I managed to screw up the description. The Phoenix watching is dressed as a shugenja. There is also a Shiba bushi waiting to take part in the competition. Kuni Daigo: If you would like to interview the servants, search Mutsuye's rooms, or do something else, that's fine. I'd just like something specific so I can try and narrate it. :)
Dance Competition:
The third floor of Kyuden Hida has been cleared, its many shoji, the movable, paper walls of Rokugani court, having been pushed aside to form a dance floor. This clearing is surrounded by a space for musicians and a multitude of low tables for the audience to congregate.
There are multiple people already in attendance. An elderly Ide couple watches their young daughter talk to a pair of Phoenix girls. A Shosuro with a painted face drinks sake alone at a table, occasionally chuckling to herself. A Phoenix wearing the green badge of an Emerald Magistrate chats amiably with Hiruma Kage, surrounded by friends and bodyguards. A miserable-looking Scorpion man in the midst of some hard-drinking Yasuki appears as if he'd rather be anywhere else. In the middle of it all, Yasuki Kurako frantically moves about, trying to organize the upcoming event. Doji Ameiko:
The Phoenix girls talking with young Ide are the same girls you saw on the parade grounds. Archery Range:
The wind whips noisily across the northern parade grounds, although the tall walls of Kyuden Hida protect you from the worst of it. The area has been modified into a number of archery ranges and arenas: standing targets, inuri mono , and "duel" shooting, where samurai participate in three mounted passes, firing humming bulb arrows, trying for a clean hit to the opponent's armored torso.
A number of Crab, Unicorn, and Lion bushi stand around, watching the competition. A Phoenix, wearing the mon of Isawa, watches as well, surrounded by retainers. Waiting in line to shoot is Shinjo O-Shimo, the Otaku twins, a Matsu samurai-ko, a Scorpion in full heavy armor, and several Crabs. Hiruma Ryoichi sits in the stands, speaking quietly to another, elderly Hiruma. Kuni Daigo:
Going to a wedding today. Nothing from me until tomorrow. -Posted with Wayfinder
Takakana offers the same lop-sided grin. "If that is all, I understand that Yasuki Kurako-san is hosting a dance competition on the third floor to open the court. If that doesn't interest you, then some of the bushi are testing their skill at archery in the parade ground."
Takakana waves his hands in front of himself. "The Kaiu and Kuni have already investigated any Crab connections to Hikaru-sama's line. We were more thinking of a personal sort of investigation." He looks at Ayumi. "I do not understand."
There are a few options for personal investigations here. There is a court going on beneath you and gossiping about the bride-to-be would hardly be considered suspicious. Ameiko has a couple leads as far as that goes. You also know that Mutsuye has a yojimbo. It might require more subtlety, but he could certainly provide some insight on the day-to-day life of his charge.
Wearing armor to court in Kyuden Hida is not irregular, although some of the more genteel clans might view that with suspicion and distaste. Whether or not you're wearing armor depends on if you think your character is. If you want to ask Takaji something, I would wait until after the scene is finished. If I push a scene forward during a conversation you've already started, you should feel free to continue it in spoilers.
Isawa Hikaru - Ameiko, Katsuko, Ayumi:
You know that Isawa Hikaru is the first cousin of Shiba Ujimitsu, the Phoenix Clan Champion. For a Phoenix, he's extremely rich, offering the Crab thousands of koku worth in lumber, pearls, enamels, and and fish for a dowry.
He and his wife seem close. They sometimes touch in public. Isawa Hikaru - Ameiko & Katsuko:
You also know that Hikaru has been trained as a shugenja, although it was mostly done out of tradition.
His two oldest daughters, Yoko and Reihime, attended the Doji courtier school, and her father still owes the Crane favors. Kisada's Mood - Ameiko:
Hiruma Kage's indiscretion has caused no end of petty court difficulties for the Crab, undoubtedly the work of the Crane. Kisada and Kage have not been on good terms as a result. Takakana gives Nagasawa a lop-sided grin. "That should be a question for your 'honey-tongued' companions, surely? I'm just a simple warrior with a warrior's sincerity." He looks pensive for a moment. "I don't know anything about Mutsuye-san or her family, sorry. I'm here to ensure that they don't end up inside an oni, not recite their ancestors." He looks at Ameiko. "If you find something that troubles you, Doji-san, seek me out. Nobody else." Finally, he turns to Kuni Daigo. "Yuo-san and Akodo-san are here as yojimbo. Nagasawa-san comes highly recommended. And you are a Witch Hunter. Who better than you to seek the truth?"
Despite the intimidating atmosphere, most of you maintain the etiquette of the ceremony. Only Kuni Daigo, a monk without genteel education, disrupted the silence with clattering porcelin. Hida Kisada shoots a disapproving glance at witch hunter before continuing. "Your lords have sent me a letter offering your services during this court. I have need of you now." "You of course know the lord Isawa Hikaru. He has proven his worth as a shugenja and as a man, and we respect him above many. You also know of my general, Hiruma Kage, daimyo of the family who has lost the most to our ancient enemy. Kage's loyalty to their memory burns in every assault he makes, and he is of an age now to ensure that such valor continues in the next generation. I have been pleased to arrange for him to wed Hikaru-san's daughter." Despite his words, the Great Bear looks the furthest thing from pleased. Knowing Isawa Hikaru: Int/Courtier TN 15:
Hikaru is a prominent land owner and the father of Isawa Mutsuye. Hida Kisada's Mood: Awareness/Courtier TN 20:
Of course Kisada isn't happy. You've heard rumors that Kage defied Kisada's matchmaker, fell in love with a young Phoenix girl, and refused all other candidates, including his original match, Doji Rumiko. "Tomorrow, during the hour of the Dog I meet with the Emerald Magistrate who bears the chop of the Emperor's approval while the old man sleeps in Otosan Uchi. The magistrate's word will formalize all the marriages I approve this winter." He glowers. "If I commit my most loyal daimyo to marry this woman, I expect that there will be NO FURTHER DIFFICULTIES. Investigate quietly and make this so. Now." The yojimbo step forward to escort you from the room. After the shoji is shut, you find Kaiu Takakana waiting, his face accommodating. "I recognize that look, friends. Many people get it when meeting Kisada-sama for the first time. He is often..." The karo takes a moment to weigh his words. "Brief. Allow me to clarify." "Between you and me, Kyuden Hida isn't a place for ikebana. But gentility and politeness can be weapons that pose needless dangers for those with better claims on their time." He looks at each of you in turn. "Kage-sama will marry a woman pure of virtue and station or no woman at all. We ask you to go into the court and make certain this Isawa meets those requirements. Discover if she harbors any secret that might harm us, now, or in twenty years when their child is grown and commands his own army in defense of the Empire. Make certain there aren't any treacherous sc," He gives Ayumi a look. "Vipers...hiding in the court who would fabricate such secrets." "Find all you can, but do not arouse suspicions. If it is known there are doubts about her, rumors will breed. Let Kage-sama learn nothing of your investigations. He's...fond...of the girl, and would not take kindly to those who do not believe in her. You will report before the evening banquet tomorrow, when Kisada-sama shall announce the betrothal. Do you have any questions?"
Yasuki Kurako nods to Nagasawa. "They have been notified. Please, come this way." It is apparent within minutes that Yasuki Kurako is not somebody to approach with a serious problem. Although she is the court's hostess, she is nervous and rushed, quickly marching you through the floors of Kyuden Hida. The first two have had the shoji of former barracks completely rearranged and the floors whitewashed, turning them into spacious lounges. The third floor is where the majority of Clan samurai will sleep. The fourth is reserved for guests of honor, including Shinjo O-Shimo, Matsu Bushime, etc. The fifth holds the quarters of important Crabs and the sixth is Hida Kisada's private audience chamber. Kurako stops you at a small atrium, separated from the chamber proper by an iron shoji and a pair of hulking Hida guards. The Crab courtier takes a moment to smooth out her kimono and addresses you. "Please leave your weapons here. The Kaiu will see that the blades are polished and the satchels re-stitched." She gives you a long look. "I am not sure why Hida-sama requested an audience, but you should be aware that he can be quite... sudden when angered." Once your weapons have been turned over, the two guards slide the iron shoji aside to reveal the Crab Clan Champion, Hida Kisada. A living legend, he is easily the largest man you've ever seen. Encased in the Armor of the Shadow Warrior, the ebony armor worn by every Crab Champion since the founding of the Clan, all you can see are his eyes, intense and dangerous. He is seated on a raised dais, the only piece of furniture in the room. There isn't even a tatami mat, only stained stone. A dozen yojimbo nearly as large as Kisada himself stand along the walls, dressed in demonic armor and wielding massive spiked tetsubos. A formal bow puts your head at the perfect angle to be whacked off should your escorts decide to slam the shoji shut. "Enter," Kisada says in a voice like a waiting volcano. "Sit. You are welcome." The formal greeting is not complete without a shared tea ceremony. A table is retrieved from a side room and the ceremony is prepared. Sitting to Kisada's left, Kurako burns incense, cleanses, and arranges the utensils in exacting detail. When she is prepared, she pours the tea without once raising her eyes from the task. On the other hand, Kisada and his bushi stare rudely and aggressively. An intensely awkward silence descends on the room.
Doji Ameiko & Hida Yuo:
Yasuki Kurako looks up from her scroll and gives a hurried smile. "That is excellent to hear." She scans the crowd and gives out an appreciative sigh. "It would appear the Fortunes are looking out for me today. Please, follow me." The assembled group is approached by the woman coordinating the Clans. She is followed by a stoic, massive Hida and, surprisingly, a Doji dressed in the blue and silver of her clan. The woman bows, and glances at each of you nervously. "Hida Yuo. Kuni Daigo. Akodo Takaji. Isawa Katsuko. Shosuro Ayumi. Shinjo Nagasawa. Doji Ameiko. To those of you that do not know, I am Yasuki Kurako, the official hostess of the court. The honorable and fearsome Hida-sama has requested your presence immediately."
Kuni Daigo & Isawa Katsuko:
Shinjo Nagasawa:
Nari's face remains locked in the same smile. "When Toshimitsu-san requested I accompany him to Kyuden Hida, I could hardly refuse him."
Shinjo O-Shima spurs her horse forward. "Friends, you surely must be tired after a day's ride. Please, let us reunite at court." Hida Yuo & Doji Ameiko: The Crab woman offers Ameiko a slight smile when she arrives. "Ameiko-san. My name is Yasuki Kurako. Hida Kisada-sama has placed me in charge of his court. I trust your trip went safely?"
Hey, guys. Avoid rolling unless I give you a TN. Thanks. :)
Shinjo Nagasawa:
Toshimitsu smiles again, his gentle reproach forgotten. ”Nagasawa-san has the right of it, Keiyomi-chan. There is nothing to fear. The Crab are among the finest warriors in the Empire and the Shadowlands have not staged an assault since Hida Kisada crushed them at the Battle of Twilight’s Honor.” A couple horses trot forward, somewhere to Nagasawa’s back. Toshimitsu clears his throat.”Before we continue, somebody is here to see you, Nagasawa-san.”
Turning around, you see double. Two Otaku samurai-ko in similar garb. Your betrothed and your love. Nari’s smile is joyless and cold, like a jagged piece of ice. Saki sits in the saddle further back, trying her best not to look at you. Toshimitsu continues talking, unaware of the situation he created. ”Saki-san was assigned to be my yojimbo for the duration of the court. I knew that you were betrothed to her sister, so I arranged for her to be assigned to Kyuden Hida.” He gives you a sincere smile. Hida Yuo:
Kurako looks back to her parchment. ”Please find her immediately. She shouldn’t be difficult to find. She’ll probably be the only person here in light blue.” She looks back up at you. ”When you’re finished, please come back and find me. I have something else for you.” Doji Ameiko:
When you glide by, you catch the younger Isawa whisper to the Asako: ”Is that a Crane? I thought they were boycotting this Winter Court. Why is she here?” Kuni Daigo, Shosuro Auyumi, Isawa Katsuko, & Akodo Takaji:
Shigeru nods to Katsuko, missing or ignoring the implied insult. ”Well you see, Isawa-san, many scholars believe trolls to be just another form of an ogre; another creature twisted into a new shape by the Shadowlands. However, the truth is very different, a misconception likely buttressed by their outward physical appearance.” The Scorpion appears willing and able to discuss the disgusting subject at length unless stopped.
Kuni Taira, on the other hand, frowns slightly at Kuni Daigo’s words. ”What you say is true, Daigo-san. The Taint is an insidious blight, one that many brave samurai must deal with on a day-by-day basis. Speaking of it helps us to understand it, and if we can understand it, perhaps we can defeat it.”
Shinjo Nagasawa:
Ide Toshimitsu bows low in the saddle, a gesture for Shinjo O-Shimo that encompasses you. Now that you are are closer, you notice more of his entourage. He is accompanied by his wife and daughter, a 16-year old girl with long, uncut black hair and a sleeveless kimono. She watches you with wide eyes. Behind her are a group of Moto bushi, an escort for this final piece of the Unicorn presence at Kyuden Hida.
The middle-aged courtier smiles. ”Konbanwa, O-Shima-sama. Nagasawa-san. I am pleased to finally make your acquaintance. I see that Nari-san’s description of your incautious nature are not far off the mark.” He gestures to the other samurai. ”This is my wife, Ide Baissako, and my daughter, Keiyomi.” Hida Yuo:
The Yasuki nods quickly. ”My name is Yasuki Kurako. Kisada-sama has placed me in charge of running his court. Takakana-san informed me that you are to be assigned as yojimbo to an important guest. Her name is Doji Ameiko. With all the Lion about, I suspect she will need a protector. Can you do this?” Doji Ameiko:
The girls are a pair of teens, although their fashionable kimonos mark them as nobility. The older girl’s kimono bears an Asako mon, while the younger wears the badge of Isawa. The younger clings to the older’s sleeve and is constantly speaking in hushed tones. Doji Ameiko Perception TN 15:
While the younger one seems to be mostly astounded by the number and diversity of people here, you do hear her say ”Oh, Kuhime, I am going to miss Mutsuye when she moves away and gets married.” Shosuro Ayumi:
The bushi that stalked by you was Bayushi Tatsukoro, the leader of the Scorpion delegation. He is not difficult to miss with his red mempo resembling a sneering demon. Kuni Daigo, Shosuro Ayumi, Isawa Katsuko, & Akodo Takaji: The four of you manage to approach the pair of shugenja almost simultaneously. The Kuni is short and squat with a painted face and long greasy hair. The Yogo accompanying him is taller and wears a simple full mask of crimson silk. The Yogo wears clothing that completely covers his skin.
”Good afternoon, friends. My name is Kuni Taira and this is my friend Yogo Shigeru. We were just discussing the finer points of troll anatomy. Would you care to join us?” Shigeru addresses Ayumi in a grating, deadpan voice. ”Fortunes shine upon you as well, Shosuro-san. I know that there will be a dancing competition later this evening. I expect that the kami would appreciate your presence there. Mmm… they do love it when a beautiful woman such as yourself dances.”
The name suffixes of Rokugan are nearly always used. I believe they would only be dropped between close friends and families and, even then, only in private. -Sama is only used when speaking of somebody of higher standing. Like Nagasawa-san explained, the power dynamic between a yojimbo and their ward is one of equal importance. If the two are similar in status, -san would be appropriate.
Shinjo Nagasawa:
The air splits with the bright sound of a horn. Only one clan uses such an instrument to announce their presence: yours. A small contingent of Unicorn approaches the fair grounds: from the look of it, it is Ide Toshimitsu and his family, accompanied by a group of bushi.
Another rider approaches you from behind, your superior Shinjo O-Shimo. "That was poor form to break rank in front of the other clans. It makes the Unicorn look undisciplined." Although it is a rebuke, she offers you a slight smile to take the sting away. "Come, Nagasawa-san, let's great our newly arrived brothers. I have a surprise for you." With that, she spurs her mount towards the others. Hida Yuo:
You are approached by the Yasuki trying to coordinate the arrivals of the Clans. She is a slight woman in her early thirties and looks extremely harried. She bows quickly when she finds you. "Hida Yuo?" she asks. Kuni Daigo, Shosuro Ayumi, & Doji Ameiko: The parade ground is pandemonium. At least four Great Clans are here in force: the Phoenix, the Lion, the Unicorn, and the Scorpion. The courtiers of each clan scramble around, trying to consult with the Yasuki regarding where their lords will stay and where the festivities of the Winter Court are to begin. More than anything on the lips of those socializing however, is the impending marriage of Hiruma Kage, daimyo of the Hiruma family. The Phoenix girl he had supposedly fallen in love with was here somewhere, no doubt cloistered by her family to prevent too much contact with other Clans before the ceremony could take place. Despite the chaos, you can see several opportunities to meet new people. A Phoenix and Lion stand together, speaking as if meeting for the first time. A pair of Unicorn are riding out to meet another contingent of their clan. A Kuni and a Yogo shugenja stand apart of the crowd, looking conspiratorial. A pair of young Phoenix women wander through the crowd, wide-eyed. A handsome Scorpion bushi in full armor stalks by. And of course, you see each other.
One of the distinctive things about L5R is resolving what exactly the final TN comes out to is often an interactive process. Asking what sorts of things count as what kind of raises should be done there as well, all in blue OOC text? We'll give it a try, and if it seems to get in the way, we'll move it to the OOC thread. RE New Courtier: Are you asking if Ayumi minds if we have a 7th player who shares her bailiwick, or if she's replaced entirely? The former.
Welcome back, Ayumi. Unfortunately, I thought you had dropped, so I put another courtier in motion. If you're not opposed to their joining, I'd hate to tell them no after I told them to make a character. As far as rolling goes, we can do it in the Gameplay thread. I don't think it breaks the immersion.
Okay. It's a new day and there's still no sign of our absent courtier. Fortunately, it seems like we have a lead on a new player who should have a character ready by tonight. In the mean time, I'll get a new post up.
Yuo is right. I'd like for everyone to get an intro post in before pushing forward, so I'm waiting on Ayumi to post. I sent her a message yesterday, so I'll wait until tonight to move on. As far as pacing, a post a day is highly encouraged. If Ayumi doesn't show, should I contact another of the applicants and ask them to write up a courtier?
Not at all. I just assumed that it would show up under the Campaigns tab. Thanks for letting people know. :)
Winter Court at Kyuden Hida is usually a tense, dour affair. While the Yasuki host most guests at the Razor of the Dawn castle, Kyuden Hida is the heart of Crab-Crane relations. Daidoji diplomats honor Hida Kisada's court with their presence, and the winter is spent "eating breakfast two ri north of the mouth of hell" as Kisada's karo puts it. Often, Crabs who haven't been off the Wall in months are given leave to relax at court and more socially adept, lowland samurai are brought in to help them adjust. At its best, this buddy system means the Wall samurai shows the clan's might around court and the lowlander tempers him with gentility. More often, the result is a paranoid, trash-mouthed killer stuck with a rookie village-watcher who doesn't know where anything in the castle really is. After a few weeks, they part and settle on opposite sides of the castle from other Clans, who know they must have done something wrong to get such a lousy diplomatic post. But this year, all that promises to change. Hiruma Kage, the genteel warrior-poet and daimyo of the Hiruma, turned twenty-seven in the month of the Monkey. Having no siblings, no spouse and no heir, if Kage were to die, the Hiruma family noble line would effectively end. Since the average life span of a Crab berserker is rarely past thirty, Kisada demanded Kage choose a bride. Kage had in mind Doji Rumiko, with whom he had exchanged haiku the previous summer, but when they met, he found her a sincere, wealthy courtier who was mostly good at getting talented friends to write letters in her stead. Annoyed, he continued his search through the Matsu and Ikoma, and wound up far to the north, where, to everyone's surprise, he fell deeply in love. As an acting daimyo, Kage has the unique leeway to marry whom he wishes. Isawa Mutsuye, a seventeen-year-old cousin of Shiba Ujimitsu, qualified. She was from a traditional, wealthy background, attractive, educated, devout, interested in history, and best of all, she impressed him even when they went walking alone. Kage returned to the Crane lands carrying her fan. After the Crane lodged complaints against him for "implicitly" agreeing to marry Rumiko, Kage told them just what else they could imply and where they could lodge it. Furious, the Crane withdrew their nakodo (go-between), forcing Kage to rely upon a Scorpion to be the neutral messenger as he arranged to bring his chosen bride to Crab lands for their marriage. The wedding of a family daimyo is never small news, and a large retinue of Phoenix, and delegates of Lion, Scorpion and Unicorn are taking advantage of the court to talk business face-to-mempo with Hida Kisada. Shosuro Ayumi:
Surely a courtier as talented as yourself doesn't belong in the Crab Court. You would only do that if you had no better options. Unfortunately, your daimyo considered it a practical location to distance yourself from the murder of you sister. He even assured you he that other members of your clan have stayed in Crab lands before. One even enjoyed it. His name was Nanimaru, and it was three generations ago: practically yesterday! Your daimyo promises he'll write. Isawa Katsuko:
Eager to finally study with the Kuni, you leapt at the chance to join Asako Wataru's entourage to Kyuden Hida for Winter Court. Unfortunately, your daimyo expects you to do more than simply study. You are a rising star within the Clan. Isawa himself speaks to you, on occasion. You must represent the Phoenix well, and that begins with the presence of a Lion yojimbo for the length of your stay. Also, why don't you keep an eye out for a nice man? Wataru-san is sanctioned to allow any Phoenix marriages, after all. Shinjo Nagasawa:
As a teaching liaison between the Hiruma and Shinjo, you are actually already stationed at Kyuden Hida. Currently, you are accompanying Shinjo O-Shimo to meet with the rest of the Unicorn contingent, led by your acquaintance Ide Toshimitsu.
Hida Yuo:
You are a Crab. Your place is on the Wall. At least, it was. Somebody must have mentioned that you had some social skills, because now you've been ordered to attend Winter Court. This has Kaiu Takakana written all over it. Kuni Daigo:
As a Witch Hunter, your job is to track down and destroy any trace of Jigoku. Which makes your current assignment to Winter Court odd. Surely there are better opportunities for your talents.
Akodo Takaji:
Thanks to your service to Matsu Kenichi, you find yourself attending Winter Court in Kyuden Hida. His wife is here to negotiate a number of political marriages and as a gesture of good faith with the Phoenix, you are assigned to serve as yojimbo to a scholar of some distinction, Isawa Katsuko. Surely this is what your ancestors intended for a warrior like you. Carved with lightning by Osano-wo from the stone of a single mountain, the dread fortress of Kyuden Hida looms before you. Located atop a high stone escarpment, the castle’s masonry blends seamlessly with the rugged landscape, its walls hewn from pure granite reaching into the living rock of the land beneath. There is nothing subtle about Kyuden Hida, no gardens surround the walls, no paintings adorn its state rooms. It is the mightiest fortification in Rokugan. In more than a thousand years, no Rokugani had ever dared to assault Kyuden Hida, and when fortress was in view of the Battle of the Cresting Wave not so much as a single arrow hit its walls. A cold, dry wind howls mercilessly from the north, tussling hair and pulling at loose kimonos. The bushi know that it is the sort of wind that can burn the skin, but the Fortunes are good: at least it does not blow from the south. Massive iron gates stand open, with an honor guard of twenty heavy Hida infantry. Perhaps most imposing of all is the skull. Over twenty feet long and lined with rows of jagged teeth, a fully-armored Unicorn bushi could ride his mount through it and complain of the ease of the task. It once belonged to the Oni Lord known simply as "The Maw". Cleansed and purified by the Kuni shugenja, it stands as a symbol of the Crab's strength. To the that dwell in the Shadowlands to the south it serves as a simple threat: "Challenge the sons and daughters of Hida and face oblivion." Your parties are escorted to the lower gatehouse, where a servant fetches a rotund Crab, keeping warm in his heavy armor. Somewhat rustically, he is chewing on a stalk of wheat. He bows low and addresses the entirety of the assembled Great Clan entourages. "I am Kaiu Takakana, karo of this castle. That makes me responsible for keeping this court secure. It also makes me responsible for the entire right flank of the Kaiu Wall. If you have any idea what that means, you will not interrupt me unless your need is that great. We have more than three thousand bushi stationed here, so rest assured that if an Oni attacks, we can keep casualties down to less than half your number. That count does not include whenever a bunch of pony samurai whose sole purpose here is to get drunk and chase kimonos start playing with their swords in public. If such a thing were to happen, I'd have to keep your katanas safely locked away from such miscreants." He turns and leads the group under the gatehouse, his voice carrying easily. This is a man used to leading on the battlefield. The skull of the Maw hangs ominously above you. "If you ever hear a rapidly clanging bell or see a red flare explode outside, do not panic. Gather those you care about and march in a quick but orderly fashion to your room and bar the door. Open it for no one, not even me or Kisada-sama, until you see the green flare. If the flare does not come, stay in that room until spring. If you see a blue flare, which, I should point out, we have never had to launch in the last one thousand years, please line up your loved ones in an orderly fashion and look beneath your futon for a sandalwood case. Inside are three parts of a naginata and a set of instructions. Assemble this naginata. Take a position by the door where there is room enough to swing. Then behead your loved ones, because you don't want them here for what happens next." A couple of shocked gasps brings a lop-sided smile to the karo's scarred face. "So relax and enjoy your Winter Court." You find yourself in the parade grounds of Kyuden Hida. Heimin servants immediately begin unpacking luggage and dressing down mounts. A slight Yasuki woman stands in the middle of the crowds, dictating orders to a number of younger courtiers. What do you do?
I'll be totally honest. I have no idea what a Draw Lot Play is. Regardless, I'll be starting the game soon. Hopefully tonight if my IRL game doesn't run long.
If we're ready to go, I'll start tonight.
These are my decisions for Glory and Status: Hida Yuo - 1 / 1
Does that seem appropriate? Maybe Hida Yuo serves as a yojimbo to Shosuro Ayumi. He does this because he owes an Obligation to Hida Kisada, who denied Yuo's request for seppuku after the death of his wife and child. Kisada-sama trusts Scorpion about as far as he can throw them, which... well... okay, he can throw the average Scorpion pretty far. My point is that all Scorpion samurai without a yojimbo, are given a Crab escort. Honor is more internal. It's about how the character acts and what they value. It influences how others see you to a degree (though only very insightful people as the roll is not all that easy), but it's not dependent on how other people see you. I'm a fan of the Honor Roll, so there's a concrete benefit to living honorably.
So which type is Nagasawa-san? ;) This is a discussion we should all have. What do you think your character's status and glory should be? For instance, Yuo's history (and pardon me if I'm misunderstanding it) is a story of a quiet warrior that did his duty and lost much. He earned some distinction in the Battle of Twilight's Honor. But that was four years ago, and in the mean time, his star has faded as he copes with the grief of his lost family. Many do not know him, and those that do might not think highly of him. I feel like Yuo's Glory would be appropriately low. What do you guys think?
I was thinking that perhaps you all served under the same magistrate in your youth. Although, I suppose we don't really need a contrived reason for everyone to know one another. Personal relationships can be developed through the course of play. It depends on what you guys want to do.
Sorry about the wait, guys. I got blind-sided by a fancy dinner with clients tonight and only got home now. My selections are as follows: Shinjo Nagasawa
Everybody that got selected, please head over to the discussion thread. To those that didn't, I'm sorry. I know it's hard to find L5R PbP. Howeva, I am contemplating a second campaign, so keep your eyes on the PM button over the next couple of weeks.
Hello all! We need to come with reasons for everyone to be at Winter Court in Kyuden Hida.
Recruitment is officially over. Characters selected will be posted tomorrow. Thanks to all that applied.
Recruitment ends tonight! Submitted Characters: Shinjo Nagasawa (deusvult)
Incomplete Characters: Yasuki Sunao (Arknight) (backstory)
Character Ideas: Crane duelist (Ashe) Not Sure Yet: Rigor Rictus
Sounds great!Would it be possible to make Hida Yuo's brother-in-law (and Sworn Enemy) Kaiu Takakana?I could indeed. Takakana is described as a charismatic, efficient leader, but if he does think that Yuo is, at least, indifferent to the death of his sister, or at worst, complacent. I'm glad you got the jist of it, because going back and reading what I wrote was pretty brutal. :)
Would it be possible to make Hida Yuo's brother-in-law (and Sworn Enemy) Kaiu Takakana? I could indeed. Takakana is described as a charismatic, efficient leader, but if he does think that Yuo is, at least, indifferent to the death of his sister, or at worst, complacent.
I'm thinking maybe a Toritaka family member who was allowed to train at the Mirumoto Bushi school in the Niten style. I'd place the approximate date of this campaign around 1122, so the Falcon Clan hasn't yet been absorbed into the Crab. Combined with a Dragon school, be sure to include a good reason why your character would be at Winter Court. So what budget do we have again for our characters? Not just starting outfit I imagine? This is a bit of a weird thing, because I don't believe that there's a standard for giving higher insight rank characters more money. What I'm going to say is that you should give your character things that make sense within the back-story and within the narrative you're trying to create*. For instance, if you want to play a Crane courtier with a lot of merchant interests, go ahead and say that you have 15 koku tied up in assets. If you want to be a Scorpion bushi that is always prepared, go ahead and give yourself an escape kimono with blades in the sleeves (0k1). If you want a stylish wardrobe filled with in-fashion kimonos, do it. Just make sure that it makes sense. And for Fortunes' sake, don't carry a lot of money on you. It's unseemly for a samurai. ;) *Except for nemuranai or other extremely rare items, like jade or crystal weapons.
GM, can u give an estimate as to age for some1 who's IR 3? IR3 characters are typically mid twenties to early thirties.
Since we have eleven people interested and only six spots, I suppose this is a full-blown recruitment now. A few things: 1. Recruitment will end on Monday, aka 4/6, @ midnight EST. 2. I'll be taking three warrior types (bushi, ise zumi, shinobi, etc.), one shugenja, and one courtier minimum. The sixth and final spot will be the next best character from the pool. So far, three bushi have been submitted: Shinjo Nagasawa (deusvult)
Character Ideas: Crane duelist (Ashe)
Not Sure Yet: Fiendish Zen
Actually, I'm going to just stick with Mirror, Mirror for the time being. Please continue making samurai as I have described above (205 xp). Sorry for the brief GM ADD. :) |