Kakita Hitoshi
Crane Clan
Be more concerned with good actions than great ones
Posts: 306
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Post by Kakita Hitoshi on Aug 22, 2011 9:18:27 GMT -5
Since the incident with the Yasuki daimyo Kakita Hitoshi had kept quiet for the most part, albeit with considerable effort. He stood behind Mitsouko wherever she went, whether it was in her command tent or in the front lines. He was rarely called upon to action, and found it highly disconcerting to watch his clanmates return wounded or glorious whilst he hadn't even seen combat yet.
He tried to remain vigilant at all times, but often found himself staring at the courtier Doji Mikado. Once she looked up and caught him, causing him to look away in embarrassment. Hitoshi was generally extremely easy going in the company of women, but there was something about this one that made him feel awkward.
(ooc - no worries Yasuki Chad; it's all fine! Naetaru, Hitoshi's not a courtier but he is in the same place - hope you don't mind if I join in.)
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Doji Naetaru
Crane Clan
Doji Daimyo - Courtier - Otomo Twin
Posts: 687
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Post by Doji Naetaru on Aug 22, 2011 10:42:01 GMT -5
Doji Mikado scurried around her belongings for the damned sigil. Practically it could be just anywhere, but she tried to remember where she had left it, not only this, but the whole Clan collection.
"I only hope I hadn't dropped it in the battlefield. By the Fortunes, that would be it..." suppressing a sigh.
And then she realized she was still doing it...getting stressed up, blaming hereself. Back then, in her mother's estate, she would say that Mikado and her twin brother would act like Otomos, snobbish and prideful putting themselves in the epicenter of everything, even on trouble. That thought, along with her mother's haughty visage was quickly cast away by the sight of Kakita Hitoshi. He was a fine man, a valuable individual that had shown great deal of practicality, a thing much needed in those times. She glanced at him, her troubling emotions chained behind her silken face, a thing that lost her some time, not to have noticed his stare. But now she was the one looking at him. His face, his smile, his eyes... And then she felt it again, a tingling not meant for a samurai, a sense of conflagrating madness.
"A Kakita again" she thought and she tried to wonder why she was being constantly attracted to them. And then she found herself in an awkward situation. He was approaching, Mitsouko had just addressed her for something she didn't listen and she had finally noticed the Dragon sigil stamp resting in the daimyo's teacup... Somewhere in her mind she could feel her mother smiling devilishly...
((OOC: Hitoshi! I would be honored if we RP'ed together! Welcome aboard!))
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Kakita Hitoshi
Crane Clan
Be more concerned with good actions than great ones
Posts: 306
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Post by Kakita Hitoshi on Aug 22, 2011 11:21:44 GMT -5
Hitoshi was idly reflecting on how much more pleasant life had been before the war started when he heard a sigh coming from where Doji Mikado was sitting. Instinctively he looked round, instantly breaking his resolution not to get distracted by the courtier, and found her seemingly staring at where Mitsouko was sitting.
He edged over towards her Is everything all right Doji-sama?
Inside he kicked himself. Of course things weren't all right, the Crane were in the middle of a war against some of the foremost military powers in the Empire! Some student of Hoturi you're turning out to be, he thought.
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Doji Naetaru
Crane Clan
Doji Daimyo - Courtier - Otomo Twin
Posts: 687
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Post by Doji Naetaru on Aug 22, 2011 12:04:29 GMT -5
Hitoshi's voice boomed over behind her hollow husk of a courtier, she had never noticed it, and the Doji courtier in her went rampant. It was a warm sincere voice, caring, mellow and manly. It had the exact amount of gentleness that a soft tabi could offer, like the soft blossom of crocus that dissipates with each touch. She could almost smell it, a combination of honey and green mint, retaining a tingling sense soothed over by drops of morning dew... And she snap back into reality, her eyes betraying a slight trace of fixation. She beckoned him to come closer, she did not want to whisper and she managed to secure a small distance between them for words to pass unheard to the rest.
"Hitoshi-sama, as you have noticed, the Tamori daimyo has shown up bearing "gifts" in the war. While I may react rather proactively, I suspect that we will shortly be having a Dragon among us. I mean, among the courtier force in Toshi Ranbo. And thus I wish to have a formal invitation be sent to them asking for one of their courtiers to be present. However, such invitation needs to be accompanied by the clan's honoring sigil stamp, which I thought to have lost just before I saw where it was." she motioned over to the Kakita daimyo's cup.
It was an elegant porcelain cup depicting Cranes that bore snowflakes flying over Kyuden Kakita. One could see the identical waterfall near the Kyuden, the closed doors, a sign of war. In Kyuden Kakita the doors were always ajar except in times of war. The cup was a piece of art dedicated to the old Kakita daimyo, a legend among the politicians, Kakita Yoshi and was a gift passed over to Mitsouko's elevation to daimyo. In the cup a perfect blend of jasmine tea was rampantly unleashing its aroma, its smell intoxicating and relaxing in the chamber. Even more relaxing for the jade dragon figurine that was swimming idly in it. Its angry sneering visage remained unmoved by the smell of the tea.
"Hitoshi sama, I am afraid that the stamp is there. It must have mingled among the desk utensils when the servants brought the tea inside. However, I do not wish to interrupt Kakita-dono and I merely wish that my head remains intact after I take the cup from her face..."
She seemed confused...She wasn't afraid of poisoning in here, except from swallowing ink...poisoning...wasn't there a Scorpion messenger before? She quickly discarded the thought but that reminded her that she needed to see the man. That would be next, after she took the tea from Mitsouko...
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Asahina Yukihime
Crane Clan
Crane Clan Ikazuchi
* Air * Water * Shugenja * Artisan * Asahina Family Daimyo *
Posts: 750
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Post by Asahina Yukihime on Aug 22, 2011 19:35:53 GMT -5
After the Scorpion's incredible story, all Yukihime did was let him go with the guards. Despite everything else she still believed the authenticity of the letter.
After the brief conversation with Asahina Yuuto-san she said good bye, it would be a while until she could, hopefully, meet her unit's fellows again. Leaving Yuuto-san in charge wasn't easy, they surely hadn't the same "style" of conducting their duties. But also seemed wise as Yuuto-san had some experience and seemed like willing to great achievements.
Yukihime took her way to find the Kakita daimyou and, hopefully, for the Kitsune shugenja, one last farewell would be necessary before the rush of the journey begin.
Kakita-sama...
Once more, she bowed to the daimyou and then to everyone else.
I must leave Toshi Ranbom as soon as possible under the orders of my Daimyou Asahina-sama. Asahina Yuuto-san is now the gunso in charge of the Shugenja's unit.
Yukihime offered the letter to the Kakita daimyou, it would be nice for her to know what was happening, but there was no need to speak it loud (or louder than the Scorpion had already).
Before leaving she quickly asked...
Is Kitsune-san back to the Mantis fleet already?
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Aug 22, 2011 21:25:08 GMT -5
When Mitsouko and Yasuki Chad reached the core of the Crane forces encampment, and therefore, her tent, she found Mikado with lots of messages to read and take decisions, and lots of orders to dispatch. But the main decisions were already taken by her and Fitsu moments before his departure to the main battle fields, so all she needed to do was to share with the shureikan. Mitsouklo took a look in everything and performed what was more important, giving time for the Yasuki to refresh and rest himself a little before their talking. It was the mid of the night, and Mitsouko saw Yukihime coming to her, a bit embarrassed.
The shugenja delivered the Kakita daimyo a letter. Mitsouko was already aware of the content of the letter, just wondered why it took so long to come to Yukihime hands. It was indeed what she would ask her in the private conversation she planned for this night. Unfortunately Mitsouko didn’t foresaw the happenings of the day.
Yes, Yukihime-san, it was in accord with our wishes. Your aid is priceless here, but we need an intelligent and sensitive person to deal with our esteemed allies of Phoenix clan. You are this person. As well Yuuto-san is our choice for Dragon, if he wished to, in the future. Phoenix clan are mostly decent people with noble goals, so I don’t think you will risk of any harm, but precaution is indeed a trait of an ambassador. Please, confirm if they will come to Toshi Ranbo or they will provide shugenja help for the Imperial Forces. We need them here; Dragon clan moved to help the Imperial legions. Assure it, please.
Farewell and good luck, Yukihime-san. You will be scorted by a person I know it’s skilled to make your way through Imperial lands to reach Phoenix safety lines. Just wait in the Asahina barracks and this person will go to you. May the Kami of Air help you in your tasks, and the Fortunes, to look upon you.
Almost leaving, Yukihime turned to ask about the Mantis shugenja. She knew the man had caused a good impression in everybody, mostly in the Asahina shugenja.
Yes, Manji-san left to Sun’s Gambit. I hope everything is fine with him right now. His help is of foremost importance for us.
Then, giving the shugenja a further look, wishing her a good traveling time in the time of war, Mitsouko entered to talk with Yasuki Chad. …
The Yasuki daimyo and Kakita Mitsouko were sat comfortably in the large tent with part of both small personal retinues. There was a translucent biobu painted with battle pictures that guaranteed them some privacy. She barely took notice of her own cup of tea while they talked. She told him what she saw in the waters of the Kitsune shugenja, and asked his advice. Chad-sama was much more used to Mantis politics and knew very well the tactics of the Crab. Of course if Mantis should help, would be avoiding Crab units to gain terrain and reach the capital. She doubted Chad would be comfortable with the idea, though.
So, should we entrust their intentions? Can we use their fleet, archers and shugenja to keep our enemies far from the capital? I still don’t have an formed idea about it. Of course we should know how many of them are willing to fight against our enemies, but your advice, by your own experience with Mantis is very helpful…
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Yasuki Chad
Crane Clan
Crab Clan
*Crab Clan Courtier *Experienced *Samurai *Daimyo *Hero *Experienced *Commander
Posts: 476
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Post by Yasuki Chad on Aug 22, 2011 22:07:54 GMT -5
"I spent much time at Kyuden Gotei during the Summit debacle," Chad began thoughtfully looking somewhat doubtful. I think that this Masamoto figure has bitten off more then he can chew, honestly. He and his crew may have remained loyal but the main of the Mantis is against us do not doubt. I seriously doubt his ability to assume control of the clan when the clan is arrayed against him. If he could join our blockade of the river perhaps? Anyway I don't think we have to worry much about the Mantis here in the Capital. Your own lands however, is a unguarded prize. That is where I believe the Mantis will strike.
"I cannot bring myself to counsel against my brothers. Setsuro may be misguided in this struggle, but he is still my friend and Champion. Your Daidoji Fitsu will have to suffice."
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Doji Naetaru
Crane Clan
Doji Daimyo - Courtier - Otomo Twin
Posts: 687
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Post by Doji Naetaru on Aug 23, 2011 3:15:33 GMT -5
Mikado was present but she didn't intend to pry. She listened however in case there was a matter at hand to present. However she was quick to arrange for new tea to be served, herself insisting on serving it in new cups.
"A token of appreciation to the Yasuki daimyo" she said and in the place of the old teacups now rested a pair of teacups depicting the end of the first Yasuki wars. Though it was referring to a past war, it held to symbolize today as of the prosperous era that dawned after those two families stopped fighting. A sign of diplomacy and prosperity.
As the couple discussed Clan affairs Mikado exited, approaching a guard.
"Daidoji-sama, I am aware that there is a Scorpion messenger in the city. Will you be kind as to escort him to me? Not in the tent, we can meet by the gardens."
The guard merely nodded and left quickly, fetching for the Scorpion.
((OOC: Hiromitsu-san, we can RP together if you wish!))
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Post by Bayushi Hiromitsu on Aug 23, 2011 8:39:52 GMT -5
After speaking to Yukihime, he was escorted to the presence of Doji Mikado. They walked into the gardens and once more, Hiromitsu introduce himself, bowing to Mikado.
-I am Bayushi Hiromitsu, Bayushi Bushi, student at the Wet Rock Dojo in Goguri, near Kyuden Bayushi, third son of the Magistrade of the Bayushi Family, Bayushi Tenshi-san and the courtier of the Seven Sting Keep and Gokenin Bayushi Miyu-san, grandson of the great Bayushi Daichi-sama. Have Doji-sama eaten rice today?
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Doji Naetaru
Crane Clan
Doji Daimyo - Courtier - Otomo Twin
Posts: 687
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Post by Doji Naetaru on Aug 23, 2011 13:32:00 GMT -5
Mikado nodded politely, she seemed intrigued more than tense though.
"Konban-wa Hiromitsu-sama, I am Doji Mikado, courtier of the Crane and advisor to the lady Kakita, hai I have, I trust you had too. During those times favored by Inari-kami is a blessing indeed. You see, with the war ravaging everything that Rokugan stands for. I am certain that you understand, for it was Bayushi himself that taught to the whole of the Emerald Empire the wisdom behind loyalty."
She let himself a smile, the implication concerning loyalty and obedience to the Hantei was apparent. Hiromitsu was not a fool, he would understand it completely.
"How united would the Empire be versus a common foe, and right now, tearing each other's throat apart. So much for loyalty..."
She looked over at the setting sun, her silver hair dancing softly by the breeze. She turned softly over to him. She wouldn't ever wish to interrogate. Mikado was more of an optimistic person. She wished more of a casual talk with another individual than a specific Scorpion. But yet, he was the intriguing one, the man that appeared in Toshi Ranbo even though his Clan wished to remain neutral. Perhaps there was some lesson into this....of loyalty. Perhaps not.
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Post by Bayushi Hiromitsu on Aug 23, 2011 15:16:27 GMT -5
His eyes searched in the room for a brief moment, looking as he was chasing words, seeking the knowledge he needed inside his mind; and mixing it with the bravery he always had burning in his blood. -Doji-Sama flatters me, for I am a humble samurai, a common bushi like many others. But yes, the blood of Bayushi Kami runs in my body, maybe a bit too strong. After the Seven Thunders defeated Fu Leng in the Shadowlands, and Shiba-Kami sacrificed himself to save the life of Shosuro, Bayushi-Kami said: "My brother saved Shosuro when my pride forbade me to aid her, even at the cost of his own life."[1]He bowed in signal of great respect:-What I learned with this: If you let anything between the righteous path and yourself, you can't achieve anything but sorrow.
-Once, when the wise walked this earth, it was said: "The opposite for courage is not cowardice, it is conformity. Even a dead fish can go with the flow"[2]. I guess once you know what is right by heart, your path becomes clear. And all other options become another ways to fail.-Well, it all ends to my Grandfather, Bayushi Daichi-sama: "A spark can start a fire that burns the entire prairie."[3]He raised his head a bit and looked worried, he after all was known by talking too much, in bad times specialty. -I never truly understood what Bayushi-sama meant by that. He was way to wise, to well educated to me follow his mind. I can only guess that small problems can spread become huge catastrophes. By the same token, a little bit of goodwill or inspirational thought, can spread to influence a large amount of people.Once more, he bowed in signal of deep respect: -Make no mistake, I am only a Bayushi Bushi who have only delivered a letter. I'm not wise, nor a Chui or Gunzo, not even a Magistrate or Yoriki.
-I am only a Samurai, but if the fortunes favors me, maybe I will become a spark. [/b] OOC: the quotations 1- Into the Darkness 2- Jim Hightower 3- www.inspirationalwordsofwisdom.com/asian-proverbs.html
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Kakita Hitoshi
Crane Clan
Be more concerned with good actions than great ones
Posts: 306
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Post by Kakita Hitoshi on Aug 23, 2011 19:18:52 GMT -5
Hitoshi tried not to smile as he watched Mikado deftly switch the tea cups around and retrieve the dragon sigil, then once she had left the tent he sighed softly. He thought about the elegance with which she walked, and the way her eyes lit up when she smiled. Sadly it was not often enough during these dark days.
Frogs admire blossoms; They fade into the shadow As Mikado shines.
It wasn't brilliant, but it was something he could work on. Hitoshi loved poetry, particularly that of Rezan, although he wasn't a particularly great poet himself. He wondered what he could do to get the young courtier to smile more. Maybe he could casually ask Mitsouko-sama if she knew anything that Mikado particularly liked.
His attention snapped back to the present. The Yasuki daimyo was in the tent and Hitoshi was concentrating on not drawing attention to himself, and if he ended up staring into the middle distance thinking about Doji Mikado it was sure to be noticed.
(ooc - sorry I went AWOL briefly; my browser wouldn't load the board for a while)
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Doji Naetaru
Crane Clan
Doji Daimyo - Courtier - Otomo Twin
Posts: 687
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Post by Doji Naetaru on Aug 24, 2011 2:37:33 GMT -5
Mikado threw a small glance at Hitoshi. She felt a wave of comfort. Surely the Scorpion messenger was polite but Mikado couldn't shake away the "stereotype" of a Scorpion. Her eyes looking at Hiromitsu, she said:
"A letter? For the Crane? From the Scorpion Clan?"
She was aware that Asahina Yushaahime had received a letter. She wanted to connect the information, but she didn't wish to make hasty assumptions...yet she did.
"Might that have to do with Mitsouko-tono's morning audience? For she asked to meet with you in person."
((OOC: Sorry for the short post. At work, trying to sort out medicine..gah...tired))
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Post by Bayushi Hiromitsu on Aug 24, 2011 7:43:14 GMT -5
The scorpion nodded to Kakita Hitoshi. And with a normal tone of voice, tried to explain the Letter.
-Not exactly, Doji-sama . It is a letter from the Crane; to the Crane and with Crane matters, with the Scorpion Delivery System.
-It was from Asahina Heisen-san writting under the will of Daimyou Asahina Timaru-sama to Asahina Yukihime-sama.
-I can't really tell what was the matter of the letter, I can only guess that have something to do with Astrology. And it's quite impressive that, in the face of war, you can still save some strenght to deal with things like astrology or poetry.
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Kakita Hitoshi
Crane Clan
Be more concerned with good actions than great ones
Posts: 306
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Post by Kakita Hitoshi on Aug 24, 2011 9:01:14 GMT -5
Having wandered out in the garden to keep an eye on things, Hitoshi nodded back at the Scorpion.
Where will you head now Bayushi-san? If you are intent on leaving Toshi Ranbo I would hazard a guess that the Lion would take it amiss...
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