Post by Kitsuki Yuushahime on Jul 14, 2011 19:19:24 GMT -5
I hope this interview with Hirotomo is interesting. He was a pleasure to ask questions. Thank you to Senshi for this opportunity as well as some tips and questions to ask.
Yuusha
Okay. Hajmemasho!
Hi, welcome to Emerald Empire interviews Hirotomo - or do you prefer being called Kenpachi?
Hirotomo
Either is fine, they are both the big playes that I created.
Yuusha
We understand that in addition to them, there is at least one other important Toku you use. For those new to your characters, please could you tell us a little about each?
Hirotomo
Toku Kenpachi studied with the Matsu, and served as a magistrate all his life, he's honorable to those that he thinks are worth it, but to the Shadowlands and the other evils he's irreverent. He also is very sarcastic in battle. His weakness is his views on how fit he is to lead the Clan. He never was groomed, he was only a magistrate.
Toku Hirotomo is Kenpachi's son, like his father he has a witty mouth. he trained with the Crane, but a Kenku chose him for some reason. He was told he had a great destiny. He will either be a great hero, or a villain to be reviled. He is afraid of his destiny, but will do what he thinks is right.
Fuzake Chiyuki has a very strong Scorpion bent to her. She's almost more Scorpion than Monkey. She met and idolized Bayushi Haruka, then Utaku Haruka, because she envies those who can fight. She's a coward, but when a friend is in danger she can summon her courage. She also is quite devious, and was frustrated that Hirotomo does not take a more active role, she is fiercely loyal. Since Haruka disliked Mitsouko, she will use Mitsouko's naivete to her and Haruka's advantage.
Toku Nakata is the one I have used least, he's way past retirement and refused to join the monks. He asked for sepkuu first, and the champion at the time was impressed so he let him stay on as a commander. He's an old soldier who does not care for court. Only for keeping the Monkey safe
Those are it. For now at least.
Yuusha
Thank you for that. What attracted you to the Monkey Clan?
Hirotomo
I read the story of Toku, a farmer, then ronin, then Captain of the Guard and Clan Champion. That is the true Spirit of Rokugan. Everyone, from the farmer to the greatest warrior can change history.
Yuusha
Awesome. You've already given something of an answer to my next question but I'll ask it anyway! What are some of the greatest strengths and weaknesses of your characters?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi and Hirotomo are excellent swordsmen, Hirotomo even more so than his father. Kenpachi is also very good at becoming friends with everybody, he's a good man, and people like that. Hirotomo has his own charm. He has little prejudice and has never been too good to do any task even though he is a member of the bonge. Hirotomo has the love of his people, he gives the children sweets and does not tax his people very much.
Chiyuki is great at manipulating people into thinking she is a lost little girl. She gathers sympathy or contempt and then throws the rug out of those she fools.
Kenpachi is unsure about himself as a leader. He only accepted the Captain of Magistrates position because it meant he would chase bigger criminals. Hirotomo cares for his people too much and is terrified that he is the villain not the hero. Chiyuki is too loyal, a coward, and goes against people in court she is ill equipped to deal with. It may cause her trouble, she's very cocky.
I made them as real people with flaws. I never want to create someone who is great at everything.
Yuusha
I think that shows and it's easier to emphasise with and like such characters. Is that the shared trait of your characters you like best?
Hirotomo
Yes, they are human, real, at least to me. I take a great deal of time creating them because I want to create a story.
Yuusha
what are some of the biggest accomplishments they've made so far?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi helped destroy Shoju's home, found his wife's killer, and brokered a treaty with the Dragon. Quite the feat, when you take into account their solitary nature
Hirotomo assisted finding his mother's killer, fought an oni, and is about to deepen the bond between Monkey and Dragon.
Chiyuki stood in the Imperial court and stared down a lost invasion of the court.
Yuusha
*serious voice* is it true you are working on a new device that will permanently prevent taint of the cbox?
Hirotomo
I will never rest while the likes of Shoju try to taint the cbox. I have been thinking of wards from the ratlings.
Yuusha
I will be sure to hide some of that - for the sake of the greater good! Continuing this line of thought though, how does Kenpachi feel about all the Lost and Maho related actions across Rokugan at the moment?
Hirotomo
He blames them for the death of his wife. In truth it was just a tainted Lion with no connection, but there are too many loose ends. He thinks Shoju planned his wife's death due to his work in rooting out bloodspeakers.
He will never abide them. No matter who says so. It is his white whale.
Yuusha
I think Yuushahime is identical there, but for different reasons. Where do you see the Toku at the end of this two emperors storyline?
Hirotomo
They will be there regardless of who wins. I have plans
Intermission E10 mins (The Brit had to get tea and Hirotomo had to get cookie dough for his beloved! No, not Rinko. Yes, Rinko is jealous)
Yuusha
Welcome back~ Who are the key allies and enemies for Kenpachi and Hirotomo and how do they see each exactly?
Hirotomo:
The key allies for kenpachi are Kitsuki Yuushahime and the Scorpion nobles. Mostly the Clan Champion and the Shosuro Daimyo. Kenpachi trusts Yuushahime with his life. Due to her help, he was able to secure a bride for his son, and carry on the Toku name. He will trust the Spider at their word, they have always been patrons on the Monkey and he trusts Bayushi Sensei and likes the Shosuro Daiymo.
Hirtomo's allies are a little more varied. He respects Agasgha Shodai, but resents him siding with Hantei, he conciders him a teacher of sorts and hates to be at odds with him. His other allies are his Cousin Mitsouko, though she may side with Hantei as well, and of course his intended bride, Kitsuki Rinko. His main source of information is the common folk. He trusts a commoners view more so than a samurai's. They have no reason to say half truths or lie. In his opinion they are as much of the Empire as any samurai, so he treats them with utmost respect.
Chiyuki has friends, but her only real ally is Bayushi Haruka. I'm worried that the connection will make her even more Scorpion, but as the representative for the Monkey ambassador, she will spend a great deal of time with the Scorpion. I just hope her own Bayushi training helps her survive.
Yuusha
What is Kenpachi's personal goal? Does he really feel he'll be a better swordsman then Senshi?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi's goal is to eliminate the taint from Rokugan, by any means save take the taint into himself. He knows there would be no winner between him and the Scorpion Champion. His ability to fight through pain, and his absured endurance would last for awhile but they would likely likely kill each other, plus he likes him so he really sees no reason to ponder on unpleasant thoughts
Yuusha
A diplomatic reply. I am sure Senshi will enjoy that. I wonder if Shoju will enjoy the jab too? So, turning back to what you said before, how about Chiyuki - how does she now see the Empire and the Scorpion?
Hirotomo
She never felt comfortable around her more honorable family. She sees a task, she will do it the quickest way possible. She is loyal to the Monkey, but vastly prefers how the Scorpions handle things
She sees the Empire as a child. The clans all want the same thing. If everyone thinks they are getting the best deal, then peace can be fufilled
Yuusha
what about Hirotomo? how does he feel about the sudden split in the empire?
Hirotomo
Hirotomo sees two paths. One where the empire is torn asunder an one where it is rebuilt. He hopes to be a big part in the remaking and make life easier for the commoners.
that is his real goal in supporting Toturi III. If he can wrangle a position to make the lives of the commoners better that is the cause he is fighting for, he cares little about the man.
He is a paragon of compassion and the harsh treatment of servants in some of the great clans make him physically ill.
Yuusha
Oh, that raises an interesting point. Particuarly as the next question i'll get to is also from Senshi. I believe the Scorpion are actually well known for treating their peasants badly according to the L5R wiki so this amuses me. He has asked ...
Is Kenpachi (or is it Hirotomo) a "paragon of virtue"? What qualities make him a paragon of compassion?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi is a Paragon of Duty. It is what made him take the reigns when Sanjuro vanished and what made him give up control when he was not allowed to do his duty. Hirotomo is closer to the Paragon of Compassion. It will show more later, but he believes in his own sense of honor. The Shosuro Daimyo once told him when leading just do what you feel is best. So he has. He rallied for the sparing of gaijin, he will rally for the non agression to commoners, and he will cry for compassion for those that stood for Hantei.
Virtue is doing what is right no matter the cost. That is what he feels he is doing. He may start Toturi's Army again. Toku stood beside Toturi once, he will do so again
Plus the People remember Toturi's Army. It's an excellent morale symbol.
Toku picked up those blades knowing it would be his death. Hirotomo follows Toturi knowing it will be his death
Yuusha
Thanks for that. I didn't realise they both had such virtuous elements. Interesting. We're near the end now. A couple more questions. The next one for my own amusement, I hope you'll forgive me! How does Kenpachi see Yuushahime?
Hirotomo
He sees her a great ally and is mildly attracted to her. He still morns his late wife but he sees beauty. She is his greatest fiend
Yuusha
Aww that's sweet. I think Shume finds him amusing and attractive though! What about Hirotomo's opinion of Mitsouko?
Hirotomo
Hirotomo loves his cousin but thinks she is under too much stress. too much is expected of her. her prays she sides with toturi
Yuusha
I hope so too. I think it's obvious you really like your characters and the world of EE. I believe that enthusiasm is infectious actually! Tell us, what inspired you to expand beyond just Kenpachi and play a whole family?
Hirotomo
Well, there are few Monkeys and with Sanjuro mia for a month Kenpachi cant be everywhere so i created more then what started as a simple messeger turned into his son
Yuusha
Got you. Okay, final question. Is there anything one of your characters would like to say to another character? Go wild!
Hirotomo
Hirotomo- "Mitsouko, join us"
Kenpachi "Shodai, I will come back"
Chiyuki "Haruka Watch the crane"
Yuusha
Okay. Hajmemasho!
Hi, welcome to Emerald Empire interviews Hirotomo - or do you prefer being called Kenpachi?
Hirotomo
Either is fine, they are both the big playes that I created.
Yuusha
We understand that in addition to them, there is at least one other important Toku you use. For those new to your characters, please could you tell us a little about each?
Hirotomo
Toku Kenpachi studied with the Matsu, and served as a magistrate all his life, he's honorable to those that he thinks are worth it, but to the Shadowlands and the other evils he's irreverent. He also is very sarcastic in battle. His weakness is his views on how fit he is to lead the Clan. He never was groomed, he was only a magistrate.
Toku Hirotomo is Kenpachi's son, like his father he has a witty mouth. he trained with the Crane, but a Kenku chose him for some reason. He was told he had a great destiny. He will either be a great hero, or a villain to be reviled. He is afraid of his destiny, but will do what he thinks is right.
Fuzake Chiyuki has a very strong Scorpion bent to her. She's almost more Scorpion than Monkey. She met and idolized Bayushi Haruka, then Utaku Haruka, because she envies those who can fight. She's a coward, but when a friend is in danger she can summon her courage. She also is quite devious, and was frustrated that Hirotomo does not take a more active role, she is fiercely loyal. Since Haruka disliked Mitsouko, she will use Mitsouko's naivete to her and Haruka's advantage.
Toku Nakata is the one I have used least, he's way past retirement and refused to join the monks. He asked for sepkuu first, and the champion at the time was impressed so he let him stay on as a commander. He's an old soldier who does not care for court. Only for keeping the Monkey safe
Those are it. For now at least.
Yuusha
Thank you for that. What attracted you to the Monkey Clan?
Hirotomo
I read the story of Toku, a farmer, then ronin, then Captain of the Guard and Clan Champion. That is the true Spirit of Rokugan. Everyone, from the farmer to the greatest warrior can change history.
Yuusha
Awesome. You've already given something of an answer to my next question but I'll ask it anyway! What are some of the greatest strengths and weaknesses of your characters?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi and Hirotomo are excellent swordsmen, Hirotomo even more so than his father. Kenpachi is also very good at becoming friends with everybody, he's a good man, and people like that. Hirotomo has his own charm. He has little prejudice and has never been too good to do any task even though he is a member of the bonge. Hirotomo has the love of his people, he gives the children sweets and does not tax his people very much.
Chiyuki is great at manipulating people into thinking she is a lost little girl. She gathers sympathy or contempt and then throws the rug out of those she fools.
Kenpachi is unsure about himself as a leader. He only accepted the Captain of Magistrates position because it meant he would chase bigger criminals. Hirotomo cares for his people too much and is terrified that he is the villain not the hero. Chiyuki is too loyal, a coward, and goes against people in court she is ill equipped to deal with. It may cause her trouble, she's very cocky.
I made them as real people with flaws. I never want to create someone who is great at everything.
Yuusha
I think that shows and it's easier to emphasise with and like such characters. Is that the shared trait of your characters you like best?
Hirotomo
Yes, they are human, real, at least to me. I take a great deal of time creating them because I want to create a story.
Yuusha
what are some of the biggest accomplishments they've made so far?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi helped destroy Shoju's home, found his wife's killer, and brokered a treaty with the Dragon. Quite the feat, when you take into account their solitary nature
Hirotomo assisted finding his mother's killer, fought an oni, and is about to deepen the bond between Monkey and Dragon.
Chiyuki stood in the Imperial court and stared down a lost invasion of the court.
Yuusha
*serious voice* is it true you are working on a new device that will permanently prevent taint of the cbox?
Hirotomo
I will never rest while the likes of Shoju try to taint the cbox. I have been thinking of wards from the ratlings.
Yuusha
I will be sure to hide some of that - for the sake of the greater good! Continuing this line of thought though, how does Kenpachi feel about all the Lost and Maho related actions across Rokugan at the moment?
Hirotomo
He blames them for the death of his wife. In truth it was just a tainted Lion with no connection, but there are too many loose ends. He thinks Shoju planned his wife's death due to his work in rooting out bloodspeakers.
He will never abide them. No matter who says so. It is his white whale.
Yuusha
I think Yuushahime is identical there, but for different reasons. Where do you see the Toku at the end of this two emperors storyline?
Hirotomo
They will be there regardless of who wins. I have plans
Intermission E10 mins (The Brit had to get tea and Hirotomo had to get cookie dough for his beloved! No, not Rinko. Yes, Rinko is jealous)
Yuusha
Welcome back~ Who are the key allies and enemies for Kenpachi and Hirotomo and how do they see each exactly?
Hirotomo:
The key allies for kenpachi are Kitsuki Yuushahime and the Scorpion nobles. Mostly the Clan Champion and the Shosuro Daimyo. Kenpachi trusts Yuushahime with his life. Due to her help, he was able to secure a bride for his son, and carry on the Toku name. He will trust the Spider at their word, they have always been patrons on the Monkey and he trusts Bayushi Sensei and likes the Shosuro Daiymo.
Hirtomo's allies are a little more varied. He respects Agasgha Shodai, but resents him siding with Hantei, he conciders him a teacher of sorts and hates to be at odds with him. His other allies are his Cousin Mitsouko, though she may side with Hantei as well, and of course his intended bride, Kitsuki Rinko. His main source of information is the common folk. He trusts a commoners view more so than a samurai's. They have no reason to say half truths or lie. In his opinion they are as much of the Empire as any samurai, so he treats them with utmost respect.
Chiyuki has friends, but her only real ally is Bayushi Haruka. I'm worried that the connection will make her even more Scorpion, but as the representative for the Monkey ambassador, she will spend a great deal of time with the Scorpion. I just hope her own Bayushi training helps her survive.
Yuusha
What is Kenpachi's personal goal? Does he really feel he'll be a better swordsman then Senshi?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi's goal is to eliminate the taint from Rokugan, by any means save take the taint into himself. He knows there would be no winner between him and the Scorpion Champion. His ability to fight through pain, and his absured endurance would last for awhile but they would likely likely kill each other, plus he likes him so he really sees no reason to ponder on unpleasant thoughts
Yuusha
A diplomatic reply. I am sure Senshi will enjoy that. I wonder if Shoju will enjoy the jab too? So, turning back to what you said before, how about Chiyuki - how does she now see the Empire and the Scorpion?
Hirotomo
She never felt comfortable around her more honorable family. She sees a task, she will do it the quickest way possible. She is loyal to the Monkey, but vastly prefers how the Scorpions handle things
She sees the Empire as a child. The clans all want the same thing. If everyone thinks they are getting the best deal, then peace can be fufilled
Yuusha
what about Hirotomo? how does he feel about the sudden split in the empire?
Hirotomo
Hirotomo sees two paths. One where the empire is torn asunder an one where it is rebuilt. He hopes to be a big part in the remaking and make life easier for the commoners.
that is his real goal in supporting Toturi III. If he can wrangle a position to make the lives of the commoners better that is the cause he is fighting for, he cares little about the man.
He is a paragon of compassion and the harsh treatment of servants in some of the great clans make him physically ill.
Yuusha
Oh, that raises an interesting point. Particuarly as the next question i'll get to is also from Senshi. I believe the Scorpion are actually well known for treating their peasants badly according to the L5R wiki so this amuses me. He has asked ...
Is Kenpachi (or is it Hirotomo) a "paragon of virtue"? What qualities make him a paragon of compassion?
Hirotomo
Kenpachi is a Paragon of Duty. It is what made him take the reigns when Sanjuro vanished and what made him give up control when he was not allowed to do his duty. Hirotomo is closer to the Paragon of Compassion. It will show more later, but he believes in his own sense of honor. The Shosuro Daimyo once told him when leading just do what you feel is best. So he has. He rallied for the sparing of gaijin, he will rally for the non agression to commoners, and he will cry for compassion for those that stood for Hantei.
Virtue is doing what is right no matter the cost. That is what he feels he is doing. He may start Toturi's Army again. Toku stood beside Toturi once, he will do so again
Plus the People remember Toturi's Army. It's an excellent morale symbol.
Toku picked up those blades knowing it would be his death. Hirotomo follows Toturi knowing it will be his death
Yuusha
Thanks for that. I didn't realise they both had such virtuous elements. Interesting. We're near the end now. A couple more questions. The next one for my own amusement, I hope you'll forgive me! How does Kenpachi see Yuushahime?
Hirotomo
He sees her a great ally and is mildly attracted to her. He still morns his late wife but he sees beauty. She is his greatest fiend
Yuusha
Aww that's sweet. I think Shume finds him amusing and attractive though! What about Hirotomo's opinion of Mitsouko?
Hirotomo
Hirotomo loves his cousin but thinks she is under too much stress. too much is expected of her. her prays she sides with toturi
Yuusha
I hope so too. I think it's obvious you really like your characters and the world of EE. I believe that enthusiasm is infectious actually! Tell us, what inspired you to expand beyond just Kenpachi and play a whole family?
Hirotomo
Well, there are few Monkeys and with Sanjuro mia for a month Kenpachi cant be everywhere so i created more then what started as a simple messeger turned into his son
Yuusha
Got you. Okay, final question. Is there anything one of your characters would like to say to another character? Go wild!
Hirotomo
Hirotomo- "Mitsouko, join us"
Kenpachi "Shodai, I will come back"
Chiyuki "Haruka Watch the crane"
