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L5R: Your Honorable service begins

Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
edited March 2009 in Critical Failures
One week ago


Some time ago because of circumstances, you offended the Mantis clan. Luckily, or unfortunately as the case may turn out, you were loaned the the Mantis clan as a way to make recompense. Today you are meeting your temporary new lord in kiken & roka toshi or the treacherous pass city in imperial lands. The weather is excellent, a strong sun and a fine spring breeze. This town is home to a family of peasant fishermen, whose ancestor once gave a true dragon a bowl of rice. The dragon, in return for the girl's kindness, promised one thousand years of peace for her family.

Third warehouse from cliffs, an odd place for a meeting of this import perhaps. Of course the mantis are not most traditional of clans. Outside the warehouse stand two guards, flanked by a girl with an umbrella your contact for today stands in the sun. Tsuruchi Basho, cousin of the Daimyo and from what you've heard, a tough man to like. Talking to him, is what looks like a monk. He's certainly dressed like one.

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Posts

  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Otomo Masashi was a tall, lean samurai, dressed in Imperial colours underneath his breastplate. At his hips lay his Daisho, and on his breast were two mon- that of the Otomo Family beside the mon of the Ancestral Hiruma school of the Crab. He had checked personally, and been unable to find anyone in history who was qualified to have worn two such mon at once.

    He stood for a moment, taking in the land around him. All of this had been orchestrated by his family, of course- His 'disgraceful conduct' towards the visiting Mantis, who just happened to be the brother of the Mantis Daimyo... But then, he had grown used to being manipulated throughout his young life. His family were herditarily the greatest courtiers in Rokugan, and he had grew up around brothers, sisters and cousins who delighted in throwing webs of intrigue and deceit at each other and anyone else who happened too near...Especially at Masashi himself. Alone among his siblings, he was straightforward and honest and strove to be everything a Samurai was supposed to be- and suffered mightily for it.

    He thought he had gotten away among the Crab- that he had passed outside of his family's reach such that he could get on with his life the way HE wanted to live it...how wrong he had been.

    And now here he was, stuck in a small town far from Crab lands, where he should be protecting Rokugan from the army of evil that seethed on the other side of the great Wall...

    Sighing softly, he composed himself and started down towards the girl and the Monk. He would do what must be done, and repay whatever so-called debt they had set up to keep him busy. He would prove to his family that he could take care of himself, and perhaps then they would let him live his life as he chose.

    El Skid on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    A massive shadow fell from the form of Hiruma Oda as he walked idly, watching the assemblage before him. Lazily, he took another bite of the fried squid he had purchased at the market and chewed thoughtfully while trying to size up the strangers.

    The ground crunched under the weight of his overworked sandals and his blue and grey kimono flapped in the breeze, more chest than was appropriate showed through the fine silk. Showing no interest or aptitude for the fine art of swordplay, his Katana was stored with the rest of his gear in his room. Only the wakizashi hung at his side, in case anyone mistook him for some bulbous commoner.

    The all too familiar sigil of his family is seen on one of the group, but the face is unknown to Oda. Perhaps someone to keep an eye on him?

    Valkun on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Kitsuki Rei walks over the last hill over looking Kiken & Roka Toshi. She stops and looks over the lay of the town and her eyes wander to the shore and the boats docked there.

    Sailing. I wonder how much time I will have to be on their boats. Well it's a small price to pay really to make up for the dishonor I put on them. She frowns.

    Well I should I best not be late to meet my new lord.

    She takes a moment to brush any dust from the road off her green travel Kimono and pulls out her magistrate badge and hangs it from her obi. Pulling out a scroll from her bad she skims the writting again for the 100th time.

    Third warehouse...Tsuruchi Basho.

    She finds her badge gets her into the town gate without a second look at she makes her way to the warehouse area of town. Turning the corner she spots Tsuruchi Basho talking to a monk and his guards.

    Best wait till his business is done before approching.

    Tangen on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    His snack finished, the massive Crab scout reaches into his kimono to lightly finger the gift he had so carefully escorted on this long journey. This silver compass is somewhat plain but well made, on the back is etched a picture of a crab with elongated scythes for arms, a thin trace of jade runs along the needle like a falling star. On the inside of the cover is written "May you always find home". Oda cringed at the thought of how much saki and tobacco this little treasure replaced and sighed heavily.

    Finding a convenient wall just out of earshot, the Hiruma leans while waiting impatiently to be beckoned or for the conversation to come to a halt.

    Valkun on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    jdarksun wrote: »

    A minute passed before she spoke to the others gathered beside her. She turned to the Dragon with the badge, and offered a short bow. "I am Matsu Yuri. Please forgive me, but I do not recognize your badge. You are an... official of some sort? I mean no disrespect, I only wish to know how best to address you."


    "Ah, Yuri-san. No need for forgiveness. I am an Emerald Magistrate for our glorious emperor. I had been stationed at the city of Heibeisu, in the eastern end of Dragon lands. But I have been ordered to report to lord Tsuruchi Basho for the time being. Please you can call me Rei-sama. What brings a mighty Matsu to Mantis lands?" Rei smiles openly while speaking. She appears honest and friendly.

    Tangen on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Go inside, i have to deal with your fellow miscreants," says Tsuruchi Basho to the monk. The man takes his casual dismissal in stride and bows deeply. "Please, honorable samurai," yells Basho "do not linger in the sun on my account, come closer."

    "Yes, i think this is all of you then," he says, "I am Tsuruchi Baso as you no doubt know. I have your orders for you, yes i do. Let us go inside." The girl at his side hands her umbrella to one of the guards exchanging it for a fan. Tsuruchi Basho like his temperature tightly controlled, apparently. Inside the warehouse is decorated like it were a makeshift throne room. Cargo has been moved to the sides and an area has been cleared to sit, where tea awaits the thirsty.

    Baso takes a seat and directs you to do the same. Taking out a map and laying it out on the floor he points to a small island some way removed from mantis holdings. "This is where you'll be going." he says matter of factly. "Rice shipments are not forthcoming. They should be. We've already sent a ship, they've not returned. We fear the worst. Hence, you'll be going."

    "I'm sending along one of my aides to resolve the situation, you'll be yojimbo to him. I think this will go more smoothly if i allow for questions now."

    Canada_jezus on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "So....there's actual danger involved in this mission?" Masashi stares doubtfully at the Mantis for a moment, then his face breaks into a full-on smile of pure joy. "That's Great! When do we leave?"

    El Skid on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Oda raises an eyebrow at the lack of proper introduction before quickly bowing and taking a seat, each move so ponderously done it appears that he may fall over at any moment. This Mantis might not be so bad. He can't help but smile at his clan mate's enthusiasm, a true Crab never shirks from duty nor danger.

    "Tsuruchi-Sama, compared to what we face beyond the great Kaui Wall, your rice thieves are nothing but legless crickets." Forcefully, he slams one meaty fist into his awaiting palm.

    Valkun on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    jdarksun wrote: »
    Yuri inclined her head. "I am pleased to make your acquaintance, Rei-sama. It is a boon for me to meet such a knowledgeable person here; I hope you would not be offended if I came to you with a question from time to time?" Her gaze flicks back towards the docks before she continues. "I have also been ordered here, to settle a matter of honor."


    "Then we are blessed to have a mighty Matsu amongst us. My father is a Justicar, a magistrate who believes that a honorable samurai will always strike true and a dishonorable one will always miss their mark. He often told me that was the reason the Lion always would be the Emperor's right hand."


    Once inside Rei takes the oppurtunity to study those she sits with.

    Matsu Yuri is like me. Except fierce. I can literally see the lioness ready to pounce, just under the surface. She will be a strong ally I am sure.

    Hiruma Oda is HUGE! I've never seen a larger man. I wonder if he sumo's? He has obviously seen battles but maybe seems least like he wants to be here. I've heard the Crab get uncomfortable if they leave their wall too long...like a snail with out his shell Rei almost laughs at this, but keeps it under control.

    Otomo Masashi. I'm curious most about him. He carries himself like a Seppun, but for sure he is an Otomo by herald. He carries himself like a samurai, not a courtier. I wonder what his story is?...

    And the monk. I've been around Ize Zumi my whole life, I wonder why a monk is with us?

    She listens to the Tsurichi's instruction and the others comments.

    I wonder about the islands location, It seems outside their normal travel routes that I know, though I admit Mantis trade routes are not something I've had to study much. I wonder how secretive they will be with us.

    Tangen on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Hmm yes," Answers Basho, "Danger is a possibility, though we have no way of knowing if its thieves, pirates or whatever else." he raises his hands and shrugs, "Maybe every ship was damaged in a storm and something else happened to the ship we sent. Maybe."

    "Your captain to be has a more detailed map," Says Basho, "The reason we fear this interruption is our ignorance of its cause. I would like nothing more than to tell you more, but all i know, you know.

    The monk meanwhile remains silent throughout all this. If he has any thoughts, he keeps them to himself.

    A young man walks into the room and freezes with a surprised look. "Forgive me master," he bows, "i was unaware our guests had arrived." "Don't be daft boy," Basho says, "sit down and pay attention here."

    "This is my aide, Tsuruchi Kenji." Basho sighs," Also my son in law," he rubs his temples. "You'll be leaving today, he will be joining you. Kenji is the official investigator into this matter."

    Canada_jezus on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Excellent, Tsuruchi-sama. No point wasting time here when adventure lies so near!"

    "Tsuruchi Kenji-sama, I am Otomo Masashi" he said, giving the confused boy a bow, "I will forfeit my life to protect you, if necessary."

    El Skid on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "You may concentrate fully on your investigation, Sama, as long as I, Hiruma Oda, am ordered to protect you, a great wall stands between you and any who would do you harm." With a great self confident smile, the man bends forward as far as his sitting position will allow.

    Soon, his attention is returned to the man bearing his family's mon. Even with so much time spent on and beyond the borders of the Empire, the name was certainly familiar enough even if the symbol was not. The possibilities of Masashi's nature flitted through Oda's head, but nothing seemed to match the way he presented himself.

    Valkun on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Quite, quite," says Basho, "you'll leave as soon as your captain arrives from the matters he had to attend." He takes a cup of tea and adresses Kenji. "Kenji-san, perhaps you would like to go say your goodbyes to my daughter.

    "Oh! Ofcourse, says Kenji," who stands up immediately "I'll go do so now," he bows to you four, "Honorable samurai, we'll meet a little later."

    As soon as Tsuruchi Kenji is out of the room Basho starts to talk again. "He is capable, despite his bumbling demeanor, very good courtier and diplomat. Not even close to anything of a warrior in him though." He sets down his tea cup and levels a stare in your direction. "Very dear, to my daughter you see. What is dear to her is dear to me. I'll have the guard find the captain."


    Out on the docks you mee Yoritomo Senzo, the boisterous man who is to be your captain. He has a wakizashi at his waist and a sword that seems more suited to clearing plants than fighting. "Ah my precious cargo has arrived!" He walks up to each of you and seeks to clasp your hand in a warriors embrace. "I'm leaving my katana here, no use leaving it at the bottom of the ocean." he says. "If you'd like to do the same now would be the time." he says.

    Canada_jezus on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Oh! Ofcourse, says Kenji," who stands up immediately "I'll go do so now," he bows to you four, "Honorable samurai, we'll meet a little later."

    Oda returns the goodbye with a simple bow and rises unsteadily to his feet. "If you do not mind, Tsuruchi-Sama, I will take my leave here for now. It does not suit me to sit idly when there is work to be done. Although, your hospitality is greatly appreciated." With another ackward bow of generous respect, the Crab turns and exits the warehouse. "I will meet you on the docks before the sun sets."

    Intermission: Albino Squid Inn
    The scent of earthly foods wafted out of the opening of the inn, tantalizing visitors without evening having to step inside. Being around midday, the dining area was filled with the better paid peasants who were taking a respite from their daily toils to enjoy some lunch. Oda had, of course, chosen this particular inn because of its culinary reputation and not its finery.

    Squeezing through the modest opening, the Hiruma scout bellows out a laugh of relief causing at least some of the patrons to turn at the odd display of emotions. With a quick scan of the tables, his well trained eyes locate his target, the short aged man with a long white beard and half closed eyes, the owner of this fine establishment. As the old man was the only waiter on hand, Oda waited for his chance to pump some information out him at an empty table in the corner. After a short wait, the server cautiously approached the massive man to see to his wishes.

    "Yoko-san, if you have the time, I'd love to speak with you for a moment." Nervously, the man complied to the samurai's command. "You must hear many things here in this Inn, a knowledgable source of all that goes on in this town." He nods cautiously, one hand stroking his long beard.

    Bending closer so as to whisper, the Crab grabs the innkeeper's hand and places a few boku within. "Tell me what you know of Tsuruchi Banjo, his family, and the troubles he's been having." Then, as an afterthought, "And bring me the source of the scent, the one which fills my stomach with such desire."

    ...

    At the Docks

    A few hours after leaving the warehouse, Oda arrives at the dock wearing his light scout's armor painted a dark red. The sections are unusually large to match his unusual body. A travel sack is carried in his left hand with his katana neatly wrapped and sticking out of the opening. A massive steel club is slung across his back, it could easily have been a branch of some twenty foot tall cherry tree.

    "A Crab without his claws is nothing but an oyster. Greatness still dwells within him but he cannot make it known to others."

    Valkun on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited December 2008
    jdarksun wrote: »
    Out on the docks you mee Yoritomo Senzo, the boisterous man who is to be your captain. He has a wakizashi at his waist and a sword that seems more suited to clearing plants than fighting. "Ah my precious cargo has arrived!" He walks up to each of you and seeks to clasp your hand in a warriors embrace. "I'm leaving my katana here, no use leaving it at the bottom of the ocean." he says. "If you'd like to do the same now would be the time." he says.
    Matsu Yuri's hand twitches almost imperceptibly towards her katana at Yoritomo Senzo's words. There is no hint of anger or malice, but rather, her eyes open slightly in what is perhaps - apprehension?

    She bows slightly in acknowledgment of Senzo's words. "Thank you for your concern, Yorimoto-san, but I would like to keep that which is mine within my sight for now."

    I also choose to keep my Katana, Yorimoto-sama, for my honour rests almost as much with the blade of my ancestors as it does in my Wakazashi. If, however, there is anything I can do to aid you in our voyage, please let me know. The safety of Tsuruchi-sama is of course my first priority, but ensuring the success of his mission is also of great importance to me.

    El Skid on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Sanzo-san I have faith in your skills as captain of your ship. I trust you will get us to our port without sinking." Rei smiles friendly to the sailor.

    "But Sanzo-san may I ask what is the use of your sword you are carrying? Would'nt a Katana be of better use? Forgive me if that is a family weapon. The Mantis ways are still new to me."

    Tangen on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    The innkeeper nods carefully and starts talking. He tells you how Tsuruchi Basho's family is a recent arrival in the treacherous pass city and while he is cousin to the Tsuruchi family daimyo, not very many political envoys arrive here for him. In fact you are the only ones he knows of so far. The troubles with the rice, well, "everyone knows about that," he shrugs before continuing. "Shipments don't come anymore, and they should be arriving every week. There's no famine yet but the price of rice has risen what can be called an uncomfortable amount.


    On the docks Yoritomo Senzo is a tad startled by Rei's question. "What use? Well, gutting fish, cutting tangled sail lines, cutting unruly pirates. Lots of uses really. Things i choose not to sully my katana with," he explains with a smile.

    To Masashi he replies "Aha if you wish to help, there is always use for a strong back on my ship." At your back the monk stands, still not speaking or introducing himself. You saw him talking earlier, so surely he has not taken a vow of silence. He nods politely to anyone who looks in his direction



    Your ship is a relatively small vessel, suited for city to city trips not long oceanbound voyages. Still Yoritomo Senzo seems to know what he's doing. "She's a good vessel, i could sail her with four men, i've got ten. Two cabins, no other luxuries. Captain's quarters and guests retreat. Four beds, you'll have to make do the six of you i'm afraid. " He strokes his chin as he thinks, "lets see what else, i hope you can take the tedium of just sitting on a boat, but we'll make good time. Should be there in about five days." Tsuruchi Kenji meanwhile has arrived, he's carrying a satchel and our silent monkish friend is carrying two others. His shabby clothes contrast sharply against Kenji's silk kimono. "Are we all here, all set?" asks Kenji.

    Canada_jezus on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Right now, five days later

    The morning of the fifth day, captain Senzo walks into the cabin and excitedly tells you "We're here, there are large number of ships blockading the port, we're signing to them now." Outside a crewman is waving two little flags, none of you can understand exactly what is being signed. "Captain," the crewman says, "they say the are blockading on orders of Lord mayor Yoritomo Daitsuke. We're welcome to make landfall, but our ship must stay outside of the cordon."

    "So just a small rowboat then?" Says the captain. "Well they know our cipher, none other than loyal men of the mantis clan could."

    "My friends, what do you make of this, what shall i reply? says Senzo.

    Canada_jezus on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Does anyone know of this Yoritomo Daitsuke?"

    Tangen on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Oh right, didn't mention it," says the captain, "After five days at sea i forgot you lads weren't part of my regular crew."

    "Yes he is the Mayor here, he administrates this island and its villages for our clan, he's within his authority to blockade the port. Though its a mystery as to why he would."

    Canada_jezus on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    For the fifth straight day, Oda walks around with a brooding expression, a cover for the sea sickness that wracks his otherwise sturdy frame. "Yes, yes let us get to land quickly so that we can uncover-" Nausea once again threathens to overtake him. "Uncover the mystery for our master." With his belongings stuffed into a bag in one hand and the other holding dearly to the rail, he makes his way towards the life boats with great haste.

    Valkun on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Masashi darted across the boat nimbly, grabbing a rope that had come undone and tying it to the mast with an easy grace. Though he had come aboard the ship a relative novice, he had learned quickly, and in a few short days he navigated the boat with the confidence of a veteran sailor.

    Looking over his shoulder at the captain, he says "Making landfall seems to be the fastest way to find out what's going on. If Tsuruchi Kenji-sama agrees, we can be on land shortly, and start to resolve the situation right away. It is, of course, his decision as the leader of our envoy."

    Apparently seeing something out of place above, Masashi scurried nimbly up the mast to tighten something or other for a moment before returning to the deck. "What say you, Tsuruchi-sama?" he said lightly as his feet hit the deck with a thud.

    El Skid on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Yes, we make landfall, get to the bottom of this as quickly as possible." Says Tsuruchi Kenji. Preperations are made and you all get into a row boat crewed by two lads from the crew.

    "If you run into any trouble," says Senzo, "heh, well, you're on your own. Try not to get into trouble." The two ji-samurai sailors navigate their way to the beach and the small village lying beyond. The village has a large pier, presumably for the loading of rice. Your course takes you past two of the boats blockading the port, you can see onboard. There is something off about the men crewing them, none of them have a wakizashi or a mon on their person. "How peculiar, i do believe those boats are entirely crewed by commoners." says Kenji. The commoners for their part give you their hardest stares as your boat passes. They line up at the side of their ship and just stare at you.

    Once you land on the beach you're given a welcome by a trio young toughs with shoddy katanas. Nothing in their bearing identifies them as samurai. "Everyone that arrives needs to go see the mayor," one of the lads says, "right now."

    "Ah very well, direct us toward him then my good man." replies Kenji, still shadowed by the silent monk, ,whose name you at least found out the last five days, Kunio.

    "I'm not your good man samurai," he says mockingly. While not a hanging offense, yet, this peasant is certainly displaying some unwise and terribly rude behavior. Kunio tenses behind Kenji, he's not had too much sleep these last few days.

    Canada_jezus on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Already irritated from the unnerving stares of the passing boatmen, Hiruma Oda walks up to the disrespectful peasant and grabs him by the shirt, lifting the man straight up into the air. "I'm afraid I did not hear you, can you say that again?" The massive crab's face turns red as he half yells and half growls into the peasant's face. The sickness that had been plaguing him is quickly being replaced by adrenaline and vigor. It's been a long time since he'd seen any action and five miserable days at sea certainly didn't help him calm down.

    Valkun on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Attempting to smooth everyone's anger. "Perhaps we should go speak to Lord Yoritomo Daitsuke-sama. Maybe there is a reason for his peasants to carry katana's. I'm looking forward to having more information, and if punishments need to given I'm sure we can ask to assist in anyway he needs, Oda-san."

    Tangen on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited December 2008
    His face shining with anticipation, Masashi shakes his head at Kitsuke Rei. "No, these peasents look far too eager to spit in the face of samurai to worry about doing the smart thing, Kitsuke-san. Why, look at this one, he's almost quivering with rage!" he said, pointing at one of the ones not being held off their feet by the massive Crab. "I can see in their eyes they would rather be slaughtered here than bend their knees at their betters, even though their duty in this matter is clear as day."

    Laying his hand on his sword, he makes an inviting motion with his hands. "Come on then, dogs. Let us dispense with talking and get right to the part where you draw your weapons and are put down".

    El Skid on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    While kenji asks "Is this all really necessary?" The loudest man, who is struggling in the Hiruma's grip yells "Put me down and i'll show you what i can do." To his companions he says. "Come on, just like Daitsuke-sama told us to do." The man wrenches himself free from Oda's grip leaving an article of clothing behind. Lining up as one, the three toughs settle into a peculiar fighting stance. "GO." Once they start running away, you all realize they have no intention of fighting you.

    "Alarm! Alarm!" they yell as they make their way toward the village, "violent samurai are upon us!" Their cries are answered by some movement near the buildings. People picking up rakes and the like, kama's and other sharp objects. A small old man wanders up to you, he gets on his knees and bows. "Honorable samurai, please leave now and take the earthen path there, this will lead you to our lord mayor." He comes back up and repeats his bow. "I will be glad to calm their spirits in your absence."

    Kenji meanvhile is grasping the wakizashi as his side. "Kind Yojimbo, i follow your lead."

    Canada_jezus on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited December 2008
    "Pha" spat Masashi when they started running away. "Cowards. I expected no less."

    Looking at the boat they came in on and the path, Masashi says "Well, if this is really a peasant rebellion, we won't accomplish anything by slaughtering a few here- more will just come to take their place. I think we should send a message out to the ship letting them know what we suspect is going on here, and head down the path to speak with the mayor. He can let us know if there is anything to be done, or if we need to call in an army to deal with it."

    El Skid on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Kneeling down, Oda taps the prostrate man on the shoulder gently. "Take your family and find safety, I'm afraid that when we return we may cover the ground in blood." He speaks soothingly, finding the old man's act of humility quite disarming.

    Standing back up, he unslings the massive tetsubo and holds it tightly in his right hand, its mass threathening to crush the bones of any who stand in the group's way.

    "Tsuruchi-sama, stay in the center." With well trained eyes, the Hiruma scout scans the aroused bee hive for any incoming threats.

    Valkun on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited December 2008
    Rei smiles at Oda's gesture and follows Kenji, hand resting over her Daisho.

    Tangen on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    As the old man moves away to forcibly countermand any orders toward violence. Kenji and you, his yojimbos, start to walk on the earthen path toward the next village. The trek is reasonably long but you make good time. There are no pursuers issuing forth from the village. The sun is at its zenith by the time you see the village around a bend.

    "Oh my, i should have brought a meal along, i'm positively famished." Kenji says, "Should we try to find a eating house or stand, or is that too unsafe you think?" Once arrived at the village you can see things seem more sedate here, less peasants armed, though they do carry their farming implements. Which can be deadly in their own right.

    "With a soft touch and a kind word, i am sure a meal will be possible," adds Kunio the monk. He seems to have picked up a walking stick along the way.

    Canada_jezus on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited January 2009
    Nodding thoughtfully, Masashi said: "I could use a meal as well. I'm sure our Magistrate friend here could talk us into some food, and perhaps even some information on what is going on as well." smiling at Rei, Masashi raised an eyebrow questioningly "Would you be up for the challenge, Kitsuki-san?"

    El Skid on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    El Skid wrote: »
    Nodding thoughtfully, Masashi said: "I could use a meal as well. I'm sure our Magistrate friend here could talk us into some food, and perhaps even some information on what is going on as well." smiling at Rei, Masashi raised an eyebrow questioningly "Would you be up for the challenge, Kitsuki-san?"

    "I do not think these people will be very responsive to our efforts." Tightening his grip on the tetsubo causes the leather on the handle to squeek as it stretches. "But let us try it your way." Respectfully, he nods towards the magistrate.

    Valkun on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    Rei nods to the others and moves a little ahead of the group. Spotting a better rice stand along the side of the road she approaches hands off daisho and an open smile.

    Seeing the servant she states "Good day merchant, we are 6 hungry Samurai on our way to see your lord Daitsuke-sama. Set us up with 6 bowls of your finest rice and saki." Then moves to sit down at a large enough table for the group.

    Tangen on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    "We have no sake," answers the the man behind the cart,"But rice we have, yes yes." Kenji pays the man, as is his responsibility. The price here is lower than in the rest of rokugan, indicating that rice supplies here are still strong regardless of shipments.

    "If you don't mind my saying," the vendor says as he hands you bowl after bowl, "You should watch out if you are going to see lord Yoritomo, the last group of samurai never returned this way and this is the only road. My cart is here every day."

    He takes of his hat and wipes his forehead. "That's all that needs to be said on that,"

    Meanwhile a little later and further ahead on the road, a young women carrying a armload of kindling is tackled from behind by another young woman. They immediately start brawling in a manner that would do honor to two drunken lions. Rolling along the ground, pulling hairs, punching and whatnot. The vendor gives a confused look but does not intervene.

    Canada_jezus on
  • ValkunValkun Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    Oda raises a thick eyebrow at the man's statement. He of course repeats it as a question, "Last group of samurai? Who has tread this path before us?"

    The massive samurai takes the offered bowl but elects to eat while standing, a habit picked up from the occassional sentry on the wall. He offers a bow of respect to his master before digging in. The catfight nearby of course piques his interest. Let someone else handle it. With a steamy bowl of food before him, his priorities are elsewhere.

    Valkun on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    "Hai Samurai-sama," the vendor says looking more at the brawling women than at Oda, "another group of samurai that took this road, about a month ago. They did not return through this way." he repeats, "I'm here every day you see selling my rice." The brawl meanwhile seems to be escalating in viciousness though not particularly in quality of technique.

    Canada_jezus on
  • Canada_jezusCanada_jezus Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    The attacker, wearing dark clothes, looks up a moment but then returns to punching her victim. In the moment of distraction the other girl manages to land a painful uppercut on her opponent's chin. The favor is immediately returned with a bone crunching punch to the nose. It seems some more vigorous intervention will be required.

    Canada_jezus on
  • El SkidEl Skid The frozen white northRegistered User regular
    edited January 2009
    Masashi briefly glanced over at the combatants. No technique he thought idly, though they certainly make up for it in sheer energy.

    He remembered his duty, though, so didn't pay the women too much mind, his eyes scanning the surroundings for signs of danger. He was here to protect the Tsuruchi, and he kept alert for potential dangers to the young Mantis.

    El Skid on
  • TangenTangen Registered User regular
    edited January 2009
    Rei puts down her chop sticks and looks annoyed at the fighters, then sighes.

    To Kenji "Forgive me, I can not less this pass." Then raises from her seat and walks toward the fighters, drawing her Katana along the way there.

    To the fighters "In the name of the Emperor stop, before I decide to cut you both down!"

    Tangen on
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