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It's a secret...
Solar
Registered User regular
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August Master Okimoto, who is the Abbot of the Seven Fortunes Temple in Toshi no Naishou, and old enough to have known your grandfather, and as such clearly is a great authority upon all matters of wisdom, is fond of telling those who ask him about the nature of the world and the mortal man's place in it, that life is a play, except there is no audience, for everyone is an actor.
For Master Okimoto, who once (it is said, but not said, for such is the way of Naishou) out-witted a cruel Pekkle from the realm of Sakkaku, which is the place of tricksters and as such to be shunned by any kind of hard working, practical Heimin who has but a thought in his head and, holds a slight sliver of pride in this analogy. It is neat and tidy, it is understandable by all, and more than that, he came up with it himself. When you are as serene of countenance and spirit as Master Okimoto, say his older pupils to youthful monks in solemn tones while wearing grave expressions, you are allowed such things.
Yes, life is a play, and all of us are actors, says Master Okimoto, who can shatter the branch of a tree with a single blow of his fist, though he never would, for such foolishness belongs to those who are far younger. Consider the scene, he states with a wave of a slender hand, of the Governer's Court, where poetry is inspired by the beauty of gardens, where the everyday life of Naishou is carefully recorded and added to an ever growing bureaucratic library, where battles are fought with words and won with but the arching of a single, beautiful eyebrow.
Consider the fields, where farmers toil in the hot sun, bringing in the rice harvest that we all rely on so dearly for our sustenance and future. Let us now give prayer to Inari, the fortune of rice, whose benevolence envelopes and guides us.
Consider the deep forests, where the hardy and watchful hunter moves from dappled sunlight to broken shadow, his feet silent in the fallen leaves, arrow readies upon the bow, his prey but moments ahead. What could such prey be? Better to not think of such things, brothers and sisters, and allow the noble Samurai to consider matters of their station.
Yes, consider such things. Consider...
Kakita Ren, Duelist amongst Duelists and Kakita Keikon, whose feathers are bright Steel
One might expect Kakita Seisho, as the official representative of the Crane Clan to Naishou Province, to be of impeccable dress and perfect manner. It would hardly be unreasonable, given the carefully maintained reputation of the family who have often been held as amongst the most graceful and beautiful of the Empire's Sons and Daughters, to assume such a thing. As such, even Seisho's fellow Samurai of the Kakita, perhaps especially his fellow Samurai of the Kakita, whose names were Keikon and Ren (for this is known), were very surprised when they realised that Seisho-Sama looked gaunt and pale because he was hungover. Indeed, perhaps he was even still somewhat drunk.
Seisho-sama's hands, who were steady only while wrapped around his small, steaming cup of one might hope in vain was tea, were brought up to his chest, while his sitting stance was more of a slouch, one leg out upon it's foot. His head was turned and cocked, and he regarded both the new arrivals at court with a narrowed eye. Were either of the two far younger and junior Samurai before him willing to move from their position of deferred respect, which might have been insincere but certainly was expected (and, though Kakita Ren a little archly, some of us must keep up appearances here at least), they might have noticed that the mind behind that eye was far keener than it's slightly bedraggled owner suggested.
After a pause, he spoke. His voice was... actually rather pleasant. Odd, mused Keikon. He wondered what that stated about his new master, for Keikon was a questioning soul indeed, but then stopped wondering and started listening, for his was also an honourable soul and appearances aside, this man was his lord, at least for now.
"Ansho-Sama, of the Imperial Miya family, who by the unquestionable edict of the Emperor rules Naishou Province until such a time as the Son of Heaven indicates that he is no longer required to do so, has placed a need upon me." Slowly, Seisho got to his feet, swaying a little, before walking to the open door of the small function room. It was a very beautiful room, opened on to the rooftop gardens of Shiro Naishou and decorated carefully with a selection of fine wall hangings, though the interplay between the bright morning light from outside and the shadows within made it hard to determine what the paintings on the walls depicted. Fortunes, probably. Both Kakita had noted that Fortunes were popular here, that much was clear.
"This land is in dire need of governance, and Miya Ansho is a man to whom governance is second-nature. He is a statesman and a speaker of great eloquence, and as such, he is perfectly well suited to grant me at least part of a duty that I cannot excuse my way out of." Perhaps Seisho-San was a drunk, but he had a rather dry sense of humour. Whether that added to his charm, or took from it, is left for each to decide for themselves.
"Magistrates, my young bushi. Magistrates are needed. Crime is an itching palm one second, then you look again, and you find that you have lost an arm. The Governer's palm is itching, and as his dutiful servants, we will protect his arms as we protect the rest of him, yes indeed." Seisho-san chuckled to himself, amused by his own joke. Ren and Keikon remained quiet. It just seemed the done thing at this point.
Turning on the spot, and managing not to sway but a single fingers-breadth, surely a great feat! Seisho-san once more eyed Keikon and Ren. Both tall and strong, young saplings upon which the bountiful fruit that was the future of the Crane would grow. Seisho-San sighed. "Unfortunately, one does not simply become a Magistrate overnight, and unless either of you have brought one in your travelling packs, then we are lacking a Crane Magistrate at this august court. That is not to say, however, that we cannot lend our aid to the cause of justice in the streets, fields, forest and mountains of Naishou. For there is a Magistrate here already, the honoured and respected Shiba Takada."
If the name was meant to mean anything, it did not.
"Shiba-san is relatively fresh to his position, and as such, is lacking in Yoriki to distribute through the province. In the interests of co-operation, it has been suggested that each Clan might forward a number of candidates to Shiba-San, thus bringing us into a desired state of harmonious dedication to the edicts of law." Seisho-sama smiled to himself once more. "As the Crane have a long and glorious history of enforcing and devising such laws, I have suggested two names, which by now I imagine you will have realized are yours."
He sat in that unusual, lounging manner, and picked up his cup once more, drinking deep. "You report to Shiba-San today. Kakita Ren, Kakita Keikon, it has been a pleasure to meet you both." He sounded genuine, lacking any inflection of sarcasm or wry humour. "Before you go, do you have any enquiries as to your duties?"
Kakita Ren was silent, as was her way. Questions answered themselves soon enough. Kakita Keikon opened his mouth and spoke, as was his way. You only learned by asking.
"Forgive my impudence, Seisho-Sama, but... why have we been selected?"
Seisho smiled for the last time. It was a strange smile, that, filled with knowing and humour, but also a sad tiredness. "Why, Kakita Keikon...
...It's a secret."
For Master Okimoto, who once (it is said, but not said, for such is the way of Naishou) out-witted a cruel Pekkle from the realm of Sakkaku, which is the place of tricksters and as such to be shunned by any kind of hard working, practical Heimin who has but a thought in his head and, holds a slight sliver of pride in this analogy. It is neat and tidy, it is understandable by all, and more than that, he came up with it himself. When you are as serene of countenance and spirit as Master Okimoto, say his older pupils to youthful monks in solemn tones while wearing grave expressions, you are allowed such things.
Yes, life is a play, and all of us are actors, says Master Okimoto, who can shatter the branch of a tree with a single blow of his fist, though he never would, for such foolishness belongs to those who are far younger. Consider the scene, he states with a wave of a slender hand, of the Governer's Court, where poetry is inspired by the beauty of gardens, where the everyday life of Naishou is carefully recorded and added to an ever growing bureaucratic library, where battles are fought with words and won with but the arching of a single, beautiful eyebrow.
Consider the fields, where farmers toil in the hot sun, bringing in the rice harvest that we all rely on so dearly for our sustenance and future. Let us now give prayer to Inari, the fortune of rice, whose benevolence envelopes and guides us.
Consider the deep forests, where the hardy and watchful hunter moves from dappled sunlight to broken shadow, his feet silent in the fallen leaves, arrow readies upon the bow, his prey but moments ahead. What could such prey be? Better to not think of such things, brothers and sisters, and allow the noble Samurai to consider matters of their station.
Yes, consider such things. Consider...
Kakita Ren, Duelist amongst Duelists and Kakita Keikon, whose feathers are bright Steel
One might expect Kakita Seisho, as the official representative of the Crane Clan to Naishou Province, to be of impeccable dress and perfect manner. It would hardly be unreasonable, given the carefully maintained reputation of the family who have often been held as amongst the most graceful and beautiful of the Empire's Sons and Daughters, to assume such a thing. As such, even Seisho's fellow Samurai of the Kakita, perhaps especially his fellow Samurai of the Kakita, whose names were Keikon and Ren (for this is known), were very surprised when they realised that Seisho-Sama looked gaunt and pale because he was hungover. Indeed, perhaps he was even still somewhat drunk.
Seisho-sama's hands, who were steady only while wrapped around his small, steaming cup of one might hope in vain was tea, were brought up to his chest, while his sitting stance was more of a slouch, one leg out upon it's foot. His head was turned and cocked, and he regarded both the new arrivals at court with a narrowed eye. Were either of the two far younger and junior Samurai before him willing to move from their position of deferred respect, which might have been insincere but certainly was expected (and, though Kakita Ren a little archly, some of us must keep up appearances here at least), they might have noticed that the mind behind that eye was far keener than it's slightly bedraggled owner suggested.
After a pause, he spoke. His voice was... actually rather pleasant. Odd, mused Keikon. He wondered what that stated about his new master, for Keikon was a questioning soul indeed, but then stopped wondering and started listening, for his was also an honourable soul and appearances aside, this man was his lord, at least for now.
"Ansho-Sama, of the Imperial Miya family, who by the unquestionable edict of the Emperor rules Naishou Province until such a time as the Son of Heaven indicates that he is no longer required to do so, has placed a need upon me." Slowly, Seisho got to his feet, swaying a little, before walking to the open door of the small function room. It was a very beautiful room, opened on to the rooftop gardens of Shiro Naishou and decorated carefully with a selection of fine wall hangings, though the interplay between the bright morning light from outside and the shadows within made it hard to determine what the paintings on the walls depicted. Fortunes, probably. Both Kakita had noted that Fortunes were popular here, that much was clear.
"This land is in dire need of governance, and Miya Ansho is a man to whom governance is second-nature. He is a statesman and a speaker of great eloquence, and as such, he is perfectly well suited to grant me at least part of a duty that I cannot excuse my way out of." Perhaps Seisho-San was a drunk, but he had a rather dry sense of humour. Whether that added to his charm, or took from it, is left for each to decide for themselves.
"Magistrates, my young bushi. Magistrates are needed. Crime is an itching palm one second, then you look again, and you find that you have lost an arm. The Governer's palm is itching, and as his dutiful servants, we will protect his arms as we protect the rest of him, yes indeed." Seisho-san chuckled to himself, amused by his own joke. Ren and Keikon remained quiet. It just seemed the done thing at this point.
Turning on the spot, and managing not to sway but a single fingers-breadth, surely a great feat! Seisho-san once more eyed Keikon and Ren. Both tall and strong, young saplings upon which the bountiful fruit that was the future of the Crane would grow. Seisho-San sighed. "Unfortunately, one does not simply become a Magistrate overnight, and unless either of you have brought one in your travelling packs, then we are lacking a Crane Magistrate at this august court. That is not to say, however, that we cannot lend our aid to the cause of justice in the streets, fields, forest and mountains of Naishou. For there is a Magistrate here already, the honoured and respected Shiba Takada."
If the name was meant to mean anything, it did not.
"Shiba-san is relatively fresh to his position, and as such, is lacking in Yoriki to distribute through the province. In the interests of co-operation, it has been suggested that each Clan might forward a number of candidates to Shiba-San, thus bringing us into a desired state of harmonious dedication to the edicts of law." Seisho-sama smiled to himself once more. "As the Crane have a long and glorious history of enforcing and devising such laws, I have suggested two names, which by now I imagine you will have realized are yours."
He sat in that unusual, lounging manner, and picked up his cup once more, drinking deep. "You report to Shiba-San today. Kakita Ren, Kakita Keikon, it has been a pleasure to meet you both." He sounded genuine, lacking any inflection of sarcasm or wry humour. "Before you go, do you have any enquiries as to your duties?"
Kakita Ren was silent, as was her way. Questions answered themselves soon enough. Kakita Keikon opened his mouth and spoke, as was his way. You only learned by asking.
"Forgive my impudence, Seisho-Sama, but... why have we been selected?"
Seisho smiled for the last time. It was a strange smile, that, filled with knowing and humour, but also a sad tiredness. "Why, Kakita Keikon...
...It's a secret."
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Bayushi Seishinshi, whose heart embraces shadows
It was a dark night, and as such, both Bayushi Seishinshi and Bayushi Itaru felt ease, for their Clan is of the shadows, and the shadows of them. In other days, this would perhaps be their greatest flaw and the source of their most majestic heroism both. But those days are not now. Now, we are in a low, dark room of timber that is almost black, of gentle lights, of the smell of smoke and incense. It is a fine room, with many dark corners in which one might plot. The Scorpion tell themselves they create an image for the other Clans, but it is for them as well, even if they do not admit it. Seishinshi could smell a scent on the air, though not place it. That annoyed her, a little.
Itaru's face, the lower half of which was covered with the mocking grin of a dark spirit mask, was the face of a young and handsome man, who was clever and skilled and ambitious, and who knew all of these things. Seishinshi was not worried by this overmuch. It was better to serve an arrogant man who was skilled than a humble fool, or so she had been told as a child. He wore a fine kimono of very much this season's cut, his hair was long and beautiful, and he sat perfectly. One could see that he was a courtier of great skill, but by his hands and the strength of his arms when he reached for the papers in front of him, made apparent as his sleeves slid back and revealed lean muscle over slender bone.
"So, what have you found in Toshi No Naishou, Seishinshi? What do your eyes see?" A very good question. Seishinshi had seen a quiet place that was kept in order with the unsurprising efficiency of Lion Clan patrols and a populace who seemed friendly enough. Clever, even. Thinking about it, there had been a lot of writing around, and lots of Monks as well. She mentioned as much to Itaru-Sama, with as much humility as she could. Err on the side of caution.
Itaru tapped his mask thoughfully with the end of a pen. Probably a habit, Seishinshi observed without even thinking about it. You were supposed to notice these kind of things, Kenkaku-Sensei had always said that it seemed as good a practice to pick up as any, though she had thought at the time that he didn't seem to be very impressed by Scorpion suspicion. "Yes, yes there are indeed. The people of Naishou are unusually well-educated, as you note Seishinshi. There are many Monks here, you see. They tend to the shrines and teach the people words. Do not assume that the peasants here are ill-educated, my dear! They may very well not be, and at the most inconvenient of times." He seemed garrulous. Maybe this was a test, maybe he liked her somewhat?
She furthered her previous word with a further, subtle comment regarding the result of too many clever peasants and not enough samurai. Itaru gave her a sharp look, and Seishinshi quickly bowed her head. Not too much, she chided herself, but it was not needed. "Such a coincidence that you would arrive upon that matter, young lady. For there is a requirement for me to provide a yoriki given over to the service of Shiba Takada, who is a far more shrewd man than you might suspect. It is not a requirement I can shirk and, to be frank, why would I want to? Always best to keep such men where you can see them. You will do this for me, Seishinshi? You will indulge me in this?" It was not a question. She bowed. Of course. Who could say no? A most prestigious position.
He tapped his mask again. Definitely a habit. "That is good. Yes! We are pleased by this indeed. Take Shiyonin with you, of course. Always useful, our brothers and sisters of the Shosuro. Do as you are bidden and report back to me. We do not require any kind of action from you yet, and this will likely stay the same. Magistrates as necessary, praise Saibankan for his wisdom in that." The famous Scorpion Magistrate of the early Empire was the fortune of his office, and in Naishou, Fortunes were held in high regard. If Saibankan had chosen her for this task, well, Seishinshi did not make a habit of failing at anything.
"In the mean time, most of the Scorpion will be staying here, away from the city itself. The forest here is of interest to me, and I will ensure that it is secured before we can continue our ambitions within Naishou..." He stopped talking at first trailing off and looking into middle distance, before then noting Seishinshi's slight change of stance. He regarded her for a moment. "Do you hold enquiries unanswered, Seishinshi?" She hesitated, then nodded.
"My Lord, what has drawn the attention of our forces here away from the heartlands of the province, and indeed our Crane enemies to the north?" She felt a brief pang of pain deep within, then shoved it down. Not now. She would not countenance that now.
Itaru raised the pen. Tap tap tap. "Well Bayushi Seishinshi...
...it's a secret."
The crash of marching feet and shouted orders would be counted as a disturbance to those of any Clan that was not the Lion, but Ikoma Kai was indeed of the Lion. In fact, Ikoma Kai was as much of the Lion as one could be. There were not many who saw that, but there was one. She had known him for mere moments, but she already knew it.
Kai sat upon a small dais outside the barracks in Toshi No Naisho. The Lion soldiers who kept the city in order alternately drilled and rested before her, watched by the few yojimbo of other Clans, who kept apart, some of them out of respect, others out of fear. The man who knew her sat beside her.
His name was Ikoma Shikei, and he was the voice of the Lion in Naishou. Of middling age, Shikei-Sama was a powerful-looking man with a neatly trimmed beard and traditional topknot. Despite his courtly robes, it was clear that he could wield a blade with his large, strong hands as easily as he could a fan. He spoke deeply, he sat as straight as a cart axle. Behind them, within the Shiro itself, his roar filled the court, his passionate words stirred the hearts and souls of men and women. Who could doubt the glory of the Lion in his presence?
"It seems, Ikoma Kai, that there are more than you would expect. For all we have done, bringing order to this place at the wish of Miya Ansho, ceasing the war between the Crane and the Scorpion, and allowing the governor to take up his rightful position as the glorious ruler of these lands, we are not held in the greatest esteem by all."
Ikoma Kai was troubled by this. It was not right. She expressed as much. "No, it is not. And it must change, for if we are to not just bring Naishou to hell but keep it there as well, then we must hold respect, our soldiers must be feared and obeyed wherever they march." Before them, a squadron of Matsu executed an expert battle turn, and their conversation stopped to enjoy the sight, before continuing again.
"It is fortunate, then, that there is a need for you here Ikoma Kai. Your words and your mind are a weapon for the Lion, and I have been granted them to wield. As I will, as you are proud to serve." She nodded. She was proud to serve. Before this man, her heart burst with pride! "There has been a call for Magistrates. Shiba Takada has answered, but he is alone. He requires servants. You will be amongst them, you will be the best of them. All shall see that we are truly dedicated to this task, and we shall make our ancestors proud. Do you understand?"
She understood nearly everything. But there is one thing that did not seem to make sense. "Shikei-Sama, why does the august lord of the Miya Ansho-San require Magistrates now, of all times? He has been here for several months, what can have changed that would draw the governer's attention."
For the first time, Shikei turned his face from the sight before them. He looked a little tired, maybe even a little exasperated. He frowned for a moment, then spoke. "Sister of the Lion, I have asked this, and all I know is now all you know...
...it's a secret."
Togashi Iga, who understands the flames
Ebisu's temple rang with the sound of a hammer. Before it worked a man, stripped to the waist, his body glistening with sweat, muscles shining in the light of the evening. He was focused on his task, to the exclusion of all things. Some watched him, a new arrival here. Monks were hardly unusual, but this one had strange tattoos, and an unusual manner.
They stepped aside respectfully as a tall man, handsome and strong, approached the forge. He was armed with a daisho, his kimono was scarlet, his hair was long and uncut, though tied back. As he reached the shrine, he bowed.
"I am Shiba Takada, a Magistrate. I require yoriki."
The man continued his work. Shiba Takada waited patiently.
The Monk then stopped, and stepped back, wiping his forehead, before looking up at the sky.
"Why does he need me?"
The wind whispered back, hot from the forge, the scent of metal and coal heavy in the breeze. Togashi Iga nodded, and collected his equipment, before approaching Shiba Takada and joining him as they walked from the temple. As they did so, a child ran beside, afraid to speak, yet desperate to do so. Iga stopped, knelt, and looked at the boy. "Do not be shy" Takada stopped as well, seemingly unaffected by the ailment of impatience.
"W-What did the wind say?"
Iga laughed freely, and pointed at the shrine to the seven fortunes, a building so large it looked across the entire city. "If you want to truly know, child, spend some years in there. But for now..." he stood, and continued walking, looking back to speak.
"...it's a secret."
Shiba Takada's Yoriki assemble before the house, the crowd moving back as a wave to let them pass. It is kept from the house itself by a couple of Matsu guards, both of whom seem terrifyingly unconcerned by the idea of having to beat back a few rowdy peasants.
They have never met each other before, unless they have. They have each barely met their new master, who is away on business. They have been told there is a murder. They have come here apart, but arrived together.
They are actors. This is their play. Let the scene begin.
"This is very curious, Keikon-san," I say, doing my best to strike up casual conversation. I know it comes out stilted and forced but I press on anyway. "Our first proper meeting with our fellow... associates," I say, glancing over the group again (and her), "and the winds of news speaks murder. What do you think?"
The yellow-clad monk bows respectfully to the others and moves towards the Matsu guards rather than interrupt.
"May I see what we came here to see, gentlemen? Your vigilance is appreciated."
From the other direction, however, he noticed a couple of familiar faces. It took him a moment to recall the name of the monk, Iga. They had met in passing a few times as the Monk traveled the lands, though they had never spent much time talking. The other Samurai approaching, Ikoma Kai, he knew decent enough from his time in court and conversations over the arts. She would be a liability should they have to step on the battlefield, but an asset in the courts.
As Ren spoke to him, Keikon turned his attention to his fellow Crane. She seemed too tense, but it would be impolite to mention it. Instead, he replied "These are ill circumstances for our service to begin here, but we are Kakita. Perfection in all things. We will not let our ancestors or our new lord down."
"Good afternoon! I believe you've been told to expect us?"
Seishinshi's mind was in other places. If you asked her attendant, and took for granted she would answer truthfully, Shosuro Shiyonin would tell you her mistress had seemed distracted during their journey to Naishou Province. Her conversation with Itaru-sama had shaken her. Seishinshi's placement to this station was disconcerting, considering her disgrace within her household. When she learned who else would be here it was doubly so. Of course she already knew who else was to be assigned - she would not be a very good Scorpion if she did not. It was an odd coincidence that she would be assigned to duty so close to her own personal secret. The Scorpion Clan's ply and trade is to deal in the Empire's secrets. It was also the way of the Scorpion to be suspicious - and Seishinshi had many suspicions. As every Scorpion knows: there are no such things as coincidences. It was difficult for Seishinshi not to be enthusiastic about the news, though. Her heart leapt with but a glance of her, which was exactly why she could not. She could not show weakness. Not now. Not when she was certain that she was being set up to fail. Still, she could not help herself. It had been weeks since their last encounter together and she ached for her. She flashed Kakita Ren a glance. A single glance that if Shiyonin had noticed, she chose not to mention it like so many other times before.
She would let the others lay the groundwork here. It suited her to follow last; it would make an impression. Appearances had to be maintained, after all.
The other Matsu, who Iga, had spoken to, gave a short bow to the Monk, but said nothing. The Matsu were nothing if not a proud and disdainful family, after all. Neither of them so much as spared a glance to the two Crane as they quietly spoke to each other.
The leader stepped back, and raised a hand. "You may all pass. I advise you to cover your face and touch nothing, Ikoma-San, it is an ill place." He nodded, then returned to his silent position, keeping an eye on the crowd as the Yoriki walked past.
From the small house, you can smell a number of foul stenches, blood, alcohol, filth and more. It is dark within, but you can see already that the place has been overturned by a disturbance, smashed furniture and pots lie across the wet floor. It seems to be just a simple Heimin house for all this, despite the horror of such a scene. One story, probably an entrance down the alley around the back.
What do you do?
And a horrible assault.
Restore harmony!"
Seishinshi's nose wrinkled at the stench coming from the heimin house, breaking her from her reverie. It made what was happening very real. Seishinshi recalled her conversation with Bayushi Itaru about the local peasants of Naishou Province. They could read, they were educated - some of them may even be quite clever. Every Scorpion knew this already, though. Even the ignorant peasants could be exceedingly clever, and more cruel than the worst monsters Jigoku could offer. She considered the scene for a moment, then turn to her attendant. "Shiyonin-san," Seishinshi whispered to her, "be a dear and see what the heimin know. See if anyone claims to have knowledge of what transpired here. If they saw anyone fleeing, if the residents had any enemies . . . My apologies. You are clever enough to know the proper questions to ask. Do be careful, though."
"Hai, Bayushi-sama," Shiyonin consented aloud. It pleased her to see her mistress active again - to see her engaging. The attendant moved to beginning questioning the gathered crowd. She had an easy way about her. A pleasing presence that made people open to Shiyonin, like the lotus flower unfurling they would share their deepest secrets with her. Seishinshi greatly admired that in Shiyonin. It was a talent Seishinshi did not possess herself.
As her attendant turned to begin questioning the crowd, Bayushi Seishinshi focus on the scene again. She considered it for a moment - what can we learn from here? Judging by the stench, the scene was old. The disarray and destruction, visible from the outside, suggested a scene of terrible violence. Seishinshi turned to the two Matsu guards. "Was there anyone here on your arrival?," Seishinshi inquired in hushed tones. Appearances, remember. "Has anyone come forward claiming to have been witness to what happened? Is there anything you may have noted of relevance or out of place? Even the most insignificant detail could be critical."
"When we arrived, there were a number of terrified peasants outside. We secured the area from their interference and dispatched runners for yourselves. I am a soldier, Bayushi-San, and not a Magistrate. Those nearest to the crime we detained for questioning, they are held in a warehouse nearby." He gestured sharply, and the other soldier snapped to attention. "This man will lead you there."
He didn't seem to be interested in conversing much further. Fortunately, Seishinshi was spared the rigours of etiquette by her maidservant, who had returned much more quickly than expected. "Forgive me Seishinshi-Sama, but I have spoken with a some of the common folk, who have told me that this house belonged to a man named Gozu. He often frequented the local gambling house, and seemed to have little to do with his neighbours." She gave a little twitch of dark humour behind her mask. "It does not seem that Gozu, if he is indeed the victim, will be missed overmuch."
Seishinshi let the slight hint of a smile cross her full, deep-red lips. Always meet the resentment of the other clans with quiet appreciation and congeniality. "That is very good, Matsu-san. When myself and my fellow yoriki," gesturing to the others with one arm, knowing not to turn because she would look right at Kakita Ren, "are ready to begin questioning them, we will seek your escort. Arigato." She offered a short bow even though it was unlikely the Matsu would return the bow.
For Shiyonin she offered her full smile, obviously very pleased with her attendant. That was the sort of information that had value. "That is very good, Shosuro-sama. You've done well."
She turned back to her companions, smirking behind her mask. There was a clever gleam behind her eyes. If a Scorpion was to find her place among Lion and Crane, she would have to prove her worth to them. But information had an incredible value that the other clans did not respect. That information should not be shared until that value peeked. She churned over the facts in her mind. Then Seishinshi turned and strolled towards the household with her finger tapping on her chin inquisitively. There were obvious conclusion to draw from the information possessed so far - and that those conclusion would be fallacious. Bayushi Seishinshi knew this, and elected to keep it to herself.
Yes, this was what she needed to pull her away from her troubles: intrigue.
Iga quietly enters the house, robe drawn up to muffle the stench, and begins searching for windows to open or an intact light.
"Do not move anything if you can help it. I am no student of the Kitsuki method, but I know that much. Imitate the Lion: act swiftly when the chance arises - we must examine the area before too much time has passed."
I watch the interactions play out before me like a visitor to a Kabuki play. I can already tell that this is going to be dreary, boring work. I am not too proud to acknowledge that some of these others will be far more suited to this battle than I; thus I wait idly, watching them scuttle about asking their questions, and my mind wanders to familiar meadows.
I must have been smiling because Shi-chan's handmaiden is giving me a stare. I return it and she eventually averts her own gaze. That is curious--I wonder what she knows. More than I am comfortable with certainly.
The restless energy building in my body is driving me crazy--the darkest corner of my mind briefly considers provoking one of the Matsu into saying something stupid, drawing him into conflict, but that is ignored. "Operating under the assumption that this was a gambling matter and this is Gozu, certainly there is a trail of enemies and debt holders we could follow to someone with due cause," I say, turning away from the house. Let them play in the blood and the guts if they wish. "Any of you are welcome to accompany me at the gambler's den."
Despite that, even one schooled in the ways of Tagoshi's most enigmatic secrets had to raise an eyebrow at the sight that met him. After all, it was not always that one saw another's lifeblood coat the ceiling.
And not just a careless arterial spray, either. This entire room was coated in gore, matted deeply into the soft timber from the nearby forests that had been carried by dutiful peasants at the behest of merchants generations ago (most likely). Even the very air was sticky with the warm, wet stench of innards, crowding and overwhelming the senses, ruthlessly and obscenely crushing the sweet morning dew-scent that tried in vain to drift in from outside.
There were bodies crumpled in the middle of the room. They too were soaked in blood, though it was dark in here and difficult to see any detailed features at that point. Perhaps it was the inhabitant, perhaps not. They did seem to be in one piece, though, Iga noted with the dark part of every mortal's mind that paid attention to such things.
Outside, the other Yoriki noted that the crowd were drawing away. Perhaps they were afraid, perhaps they were bored, perhaps they had overheard some sort of comment that caused discretion to rise foremost in their thoughts. Either way, the motives of peasants meant little to most Samurai, and certainly the guards simply seemed pleased.
Iga moves to block Kai's view of the room for the moment.
"Kai-san, if you would please inform your countrymen outside that they will need to summon the local fire brigade, as our investigation will end by burning this house to the ground, it would be appreciated..."
Seishinshi used her sleeve to cover her mouth and nose, a pretense really to hide her shock and disgust, and felt herself become queasy just looking inside. Certainly, she was no stranger to violence, but this was . . . something else all together. This scene was by far the foulest thing she had ever witnessed. She was certain it would haunt her dreams for weeks to come. Still she showed no weakness, seemingly unaffected by the grotesquery. "We will need to have the bodies identified," she mused aloud aloofly before walking away from the house.
Geth roll 2d10o10k2 for Perception / Investigation untrained
She bows to Kakita Ren then rises, "I will join you at the gambling house, Crane-san." It took all Seishinshi's will not to look her directly in the eyes. She knew already that the gambling house would be a dead-end, but it was a chance to for Seishinshi to be alone with Ren. They might actually be able to learn something more about Gozu in the process. More information was always desirable. "After that, if I may suggest, we rejoin our fellow yoriki at the warehouse for questioning. At which point we can all share what we have learned."
Perception check to notice anything out of the ordenary outside the crime scene (I have no ranks in Investigation)
Geth roll 2d10k2
He made note of the other buildings around the scene of the crime, noddeed to Kakita Ren in agreement with her plan, and then entered the building.
Upon seeing the grisly sight, Keikon's face took a dark cast. "This place is foul," he growled as he stepped toward the corpses. "Even Goblins, as wretched as they are, wouldn't spend time with something like this."
Keikon slowly circled the room, looking for any markings that could be out of place and attempting to open any windows he could find to allow light in. "Would that we had a Shugenja with us. Their ability to speak with the spirits would be of great aid, telling us whether this was the work of mortal hands or foul maho."
Perception check to check for markings
Geth roll 2d10k2
Returning to the front of the room, Keikon gave it another lookover. "Kai-san, when you speak with your Clansmen, please see if the neighbors to this place have been taken into custody. Their testomony could prove useful. Iga-san, is there anything else here you need? Otherwise, we shall need wrappings, as I would have the victims removed so that they could be identified before cremation."
Iga glances behind him and shakes his head, clearly disturbed by the situation.
"I am not sure that moving the bodies is wise. While I am no expert, this killing appears unnatural, and it is probably best if we burn the bodies, the house, and everything in it, then bring in the Brotherhood to sanctify the ground. Even if we intend to burn the dead in a less-dishonorable fashion, it is still possible that we can learn more by examining the scene before doing so. We will need to do so carefully, however."
With his bo in one hand, Iga approaches the pile of bodies, looking them over to try to discern how they died. He avoids directly touching the corpses as best he can, but if that proves impractical he'll try to acquire at the very least a cloth and a shorter stick to manipulate them while examining them.
Geth roll 3d10o10k2 for Medicine
Using a short stick, he maneuvers the first body over, and is perhaps surprised to see that it is something not out of place on a battlefield, a man who has died to a brutal cut to the neck and upper chest, causing his torso to partially split. Eyes roll back in the head, they would be white, where they not glazed with the crimson that coats the entire room. A rough looking man, unshaven, simple clothes. Strong in build, Iga notes dispassionately, this man could be a farmer or dock worker, or a common thug of course. Why else would he be involved with such grotesquery.
The second man is far worse. To say the least. It takes Iga a while to actually understand what he is seeing, but the only way his shocked mind can really parse the sight laid before him is to rebel against where logic takes it. After all, even the most stoic do not like to believe that one could have their blood forcibly exsanguinated from their body, through their mouth, their nose, their eyes, eyes, fingernails, skin. Filth and blood, bile and gore.
Togashi Iga is outside. The air is fresh and clean, but it cannot clean that image from his head. Not now, at least.
Meanwhile, Kakita Keikon examines the scene, his mind going to the castle he had built on the wall, a place of cold, brutal strength. The Crab had taught him this, the spirit must be armoured as the body is. You must endure horror as a knife to your flesh, or perish. Keikon had hoped to never need his fortress again, sadly this was not to be.
A cursory look tells him little, there was a disturbance here it seems. Violence and savagery had taken place, furniture smashed and broken, but it is dark, it is unpleasant to look, and Keikon is very new to this. Outside he had found little sign of disturbance. Information in of itself? The door did not seem to be forced, after all.
Ikoma Kai sings only of honour and glory, and her voice lies still.
Bayush Seishinshi and Kakita Ren walk away from the scene, and gladly. The smell will not linger in their clothes, they hope. Despite the feelings held between the two, it is difficult to consider love after such a scene, perhaps even perverse. Words are hard to find between estranged lovers at the best of times, and the Golden Trout lies but a few dozen paces ahead, quickly rearing in the sight.
Still, each distracts the other, that much is certain. They are so close, they could reach out and touch, but On keeps them leagues apart in truth.
Bayushi Seishinshi felt paled by the scene at Gozu's cottage. She wondered if it showed on her face. It was good, she thought, that it was her clan's custom to wear masks. This had been true since Bayushi himself agreed to be the Hantei's Underhand - to do the things the other kami were too proud or too weak to do. Bayushi knew he would have to do many dishonorable things as the Underhand, so he wore a mask to warn the world not to trust him, and so preserved his own honor. And so would all Scorpion Clan who followed Bayushi. For now Seishinshi just felt relieved that her mask might hide how shaken she was by the horrible, gory scene at the house.
After a long silence, Seishinshi decided she was going to have to break it. "It is good to see you again, Ren-san. You will have to tell me about your journeys since our last meeting. I should tell you I do not actually believe we will learn much of value from the gamblers," she remuniated in hushed tones. "A dead gambler cannot repay his debts. It also discourages potential clients from doing business with you. They may break your knuckles but rarely do they actually murder anyone. Certainly not in the horrible manner I saw back there . . . " Seishinshi's mind froze for a moment then cast the images back out. "We may yet learn something from the yakuza, though, and we should rule nothing out till we have certainy. We will see what they are willing to share with us."
When Ren did not respond, Seishinshi felt her spirits darken. Walking shoulder to shoulder with their arms at their sides, Seishinshi let her fingers just, and only just, brush against Kakita Ren's fingers before quickly pulling her hands across her torso and into her sleeves. The moment felt electric and invigorating for Seishinshi. If Shosuro Shiyonin had noticed this minor transgression she made not mention of it, seemingly just enjoying the warmth of the day at her mistress's side.
Keikon took one last, long look at the blood corpse, memorizing what features he could so that he might be able to places a name to what remained of the face, and then made his way to the door. "Shall we speak with your clansmen, Kai-san?"
"It seemed a shame to waste a perfectly good day by soiling my mind with whatever gruesome sight lurked in that house," I say after a moment. "And yes, the thought had occurred to me that our search could be a pointless exercise."
I look over at her out of the corner of my eyes and give my sunshine a private smile. "I am comfortable with that."
Kai leaves gladly; a bard must experience the darkest of humanity to make the stories true and real, but that makes the experience no less arduous.
Iga regroups with Kai and Keikon outside. He leans in, speaking quietly.
"Nothing natural killed that second man. Please convince them to organize the burning of the house and bodies, Kai-san. Those two should have no problem learning about this gambler; we should perhaps consult the locals about similar incidents?"
Soon, the two Samurai come across the Golden Trout Saki House. It is an establishment that both have seen, but that neither have ever had the chance to investigate in the past, even should they have wished to show up in such a place. The strict life of the Samurai breeds a desire to release that the Golden Trout often caters for, but it has a seedy reputation. Whether this is deserved or not was yet to be seen. A low, wide building of wood and gently sloping roofs, it looked well cared for, with a number of lanterns dedicated to various fortunes, mostly ones surrounding luck and wealth. As it is early morning, the Trout is quiet, with only a couple of guards outside, perhaps waiting for an arrival?
Both of them bow respectfully and gesture the Yoriki to enter should they wish, averting their eyes with an attention to courtesy their rough appearance belies. The air within is warmer than without, with a taste of saki and frying food hinted in the air. Bowing servants usher the two Samurai into a small antechamber, where a man kneels before them. A Heimin clearly, by his dress and bearing, but the owner of this place by virtue of the man who sits beside and to the left of him, half shadowed. This one lounges casually, long haired and with a rough beard, age indeterminate. He is wearing Kimono and a blade, however. This is not a Samurai home, and there is no requirement to discard weapons upon entry.
There is silence in the room. Heimin are only to address Samurai when spoken to. Clearly, this man is cautious. Seishinshi has heard his name around and about, Kuzeshige is a reticient soul, but a cunning one as well, and such things attract the attention of the Clan of Secrets...
Togashi Iga, Kakita Keikon and Ikoma Kai
The Matsu guard leads the Yoriki quickly and efficiently to a nearby warehouse, guarded by another guard, this one a young woman, though of impressive size. She salutes her fellow soldier and bows to the Yoriki, showing especial respect to Kai. For all the mockery of many, it seems that the Matsu here at least appreciate the roar of the Lion embodied.
Inside, there are a good dozen peasants of various ages, from children to adults to the elderly. They seem to have been kept in a reasonable condition, though from the deference they show to the Matsu guard as she leads the new arrivals inside, it is clear that they are under no illusions as to the precarious nature of their citizenry. Togashi Iga knows these people and has seen their unusually educated ways, it is of no surprise to him that they are taking few chances with this fierce symbol of Lion pride. All Keikon knows of the Lion is what he has been told, and he supposes that if he was so unfortunate as to be a peasant, he would not be impertinent to a family whose honour was so prickly.
These peasants, too, await reference. One of them seems to kneel before his fellows, a man of middling age, strongly built.
"Kuzeshige, I assume," Seishinshi cooed. "I am Bayushi Seishinshi, yoriki for Magistrate Shiba Tadaka. My companion is Kakita Ren, also yoriki, and my attendant Shosuro Shiyonin. You've a fine establishment.
"I won't waste your time. I'm sure you've heard by now - gossip spreads quickly after all. Bodies were discovered in the home of heimin Gozu, whom we've been informed frequented your establishment. Whether one of the bodies was his we do not know, yet. We've come to you because as a patron of your gambling house you may be able to share anything you know about Gozu. Did he have any enemies? Did he owe anyone money? Did he keep any unsavory company? Did he have any habits or routines he followed? Anything you could share that might lead to an apprehending the villain responsible would appreciated."
I want to make sure he understands that I am not accusing him.
I'll make a Sincerity / Awareness roll to get that across.
Geth roll 5d10o10k3 Sincerity/Awareness
Kuzeshige didn't bat an eyelid at the name Gozu or news that he had been murdered, it would be surprising if a man as connected as he was did, as Seishinshi had supposed. The man seemed to consider his reply deeply before answering, though whether he was choosing his words for courtesy, secrecy or both was difficult to tell.
"Great Samurai, Gozu was indeed a frequenter of my establishment, as you say. He did not owe anyone any money, though where he got his Koku from to pay his debts, it did not seem to be here. Gozu regularly lost but always returned with more to bet." Kuzeshige was careful not to look at either Samurai directly, but to direct himself towards both, so as not to cause offence, but there was a certain degree of sureity in the way that he held himself. Perhaps it was to do with the man sitting nearby, whose stillness was near-discomforting. He did not interject, and did not seem to care to want to either.
"Though I do not dip my hands in such business, Great Samurai, I have heard that he was connected with others people of... some influence. But I can tell you that Gozu was not unwelcome here, after some sake he was considered perhaps an easy target for one a little down in their fortunes. I cannot think of any man who lived here that would want to kill him, that is for sure."
If Kuzeshige knew more than he was letting on, it was more by dint of his position than his words that one could suspect him.
Ikoma Kai, Kakita Keikon and Togashi Iga
The lead man, strongly built, moved forward slightly and, at Kai's motion of assurance, sat back to speak. "Great Lady, I cannot tell you what happened within Master Gozu's house, but I do know that three men, one of them perhaps a woman in fact, approached his house shortly before... whatever happened in there." He bowed his head. "They were not recognized by any of us, but did not seem to be oddly dressed or spoken at the time. It was after the sound of smashing and shouting that my eldest son approached." He looked across to where another man, more a boy really, sat against the wall, hugging his knees. He did not seem to really notice the attention."
The father's expression was grim. "We called the guards immediately, of course, and they took us here." He paused for a second, considering something, then bowing very low and respectfully, he spoke further in a halting, hesitant tone. "Great Lady, my Son is... well... I have heard that the Monks of the temple may be able to help him... I know that we are to be held but I beg that he be seen by a brother of the temple or taken to them... I fear what he has seen may have broken his spirit..."
It only took one look for Togashi Iga to note that there was an imbalance within the heart of this young man, caused by forces of dark and mysterious power.
Outside, the Matsu soldier approached Keikon. "With regards to the house, Yoriki-San, what has been decided? Burning it will be difficult without risking a spread to nearby buildings, or so the local fire fighters have reported. We can clear the whole place out, should that be needed." The Matsu didn't seem to relish the thought of hurling peasants into the street. Well, there was little honour or glory in that, Keikon considered, and for all their flaws, the Matsu were certainly honourable.
She wipes her face carefully with a new square of silk.
"Lord Dammu once faced a similar situation, when certain houses were infested with oni in the wealthy district. He ordered his men to build stone walls around each house, and while the home burned, to keep dousing the walls with water. Thus only the contaminated property was destroyed."
I sigh at that. Of course circumstances would dictate that Gozu did not possess enemies. "I am afraid due to my time spent on the road I am weary so forgive my frankness. Anything you could provide to us would be very helpful. I would, of course, be obligated to repay you for your contributions to our investigation."
A little hamhanded perhaps, but when no apples tumble down after hitting the tree, one must climb...
Seishinshi's shot a glance over to Ren - any further response would be hidden behind her mask. Ren-sama had never shown the greatest patience with etiquette and intrigue in the past. This particular attempt seemed even more blunted than usual, like trying to cut down a tree with tonfa. Seishinshi could have coaxed more information from Kuzeshige, but now that leverage had been offered any attempts she made to catch the yakuza in a trap would find the prey too emboldened for capture. Kuzeshige had already so much as admitted he knew more than he was saying. Now he would buck and thrash against the cage no matter how clever the bait Seishinshi set.
Best to let this play out and see how the gambler responds.
Iga casts a sympathetic look over the boy and shrugs back his robe's hood.
"I can take the boy to somewhere where he might be able to recover. Whatever he has seen has affected him deeply. Perhaps while I am at the temple I can inquire about any visiting shugenja?"
The Matsu gave Kakita Keikon a long, hard look before speaking, clearly weighing her natural opinion of the Crane Clan with the needs of the task before them, though her face remained as impassive and stony as the mountains themselves. "Kakita-San, my duties do not often take me to within a Temple wall. I only know of one Shugenja within the town, and that is Kuni Shiyoda. Far be it from me to cast aspersions on the ability of another great Samurai, of course, but I have heard that the reason why Kuni Shiyoda is not within your august company of yoriki is clear once you meet her." A surprisingly delicate turn of phrase, especially from a Matsu, but that was Naishou for you. Everyone spoke a little more circumspectly around here, Keikon felt.
"There may be other priests of the Kami in the region, of course, but rumour is beneath an honourable Samurai, and I have encountered none specifically. You may wish to speak with the Monks at the temple of course, and if you wish to take the boy with you, then you may do so of course. This investigation is yours to carry out."
The Matsu turned to Kai and bowed respectfully. "Of course, if you wish me to ascertain the building materials available should you wish to enact your plan, then I will do so on your behalf my lady."