Kitsune Poxo
Mantis Clan
Mantis Clan | Shugenja | Earth | Thunder | Kitsune Blooded | Naval | Daimyo | Unique
Posts: 225
|
Post by Kitsune Poxo on Aug 18, 2011 14:34:51 GMT -5
"My apologies, Tsuruchi-sama." Daichi said as he bowed so deeply that his face almost touched the boards of the ship's deck. He was tempted to smile as he went down but his practiced courtier skills kept his face straight. "No insult was truly meant just a word of advice. Perhaps I am not as on my game, as it were, as I thought I was."
"Now you should know that you are not alone in your allegiance to Toturi the Third and if you had seen my advice as a direct insult and drew on me I am sure it would have hurt our position as allies in our allegiance." He continued on as he raised back to his towering height. "While I share your loathing of having to fight our brothers and sisters, sometimes there must be a small amount of blood in order for the whole to better."
|
|
Yoritomo Raiden
Mantis Clan Mod
Mantis Clan - Shugenja - Water - Thunder - Damiyo - Not Kolat
Posts: 437
|
Post by Yoritomo Raiden on Aug 18, 2011 19:12:53 GMT -5
I stood talk and looked around the assembled Captains. One thing I could tell universally was fear. They all showed signs that they were worried for their life. Even if they didn't notice I sure as hell did. A eyebrow turn down and out there. Eyes widened over there. Maybe it was my size I found myself asking myself.
"No its probablythe fact you just killed that Lion barbarian without hesitation and without mercy. All and all I really kinda liked it. You should kill someone else too! OHH OHH how about the guy in the back with the mole on his face, I always hated facial things like that." the enthusiasm was rather disturbing. Instead of commenting to Sahir I just willed him away.
I addressed the crowd of Captains. "A while ago I was informed our champions boat went down, for what reasons I do not know. We are searching for survivors as we speak." I saw the reactions among them all. "I will now address to you what I had been talking with our champion during our journey, The subject is what we are to do with our fleet." I turned my back to the mast and now had all the captains in front of me. I saw Kenpachi and his son at this point and saw the slight give of surprise in his facial expression. He recovered rather quickly though, his son might have well had his jaw hanging open however.
I outstretched my hand addressing Kitsune Dachi. "Yes Dachi-san anyone could hide behind a mask of humility and humblness to achieve what they wish. I would like to think that among each other we are better than that. I myself hold close the Bushido tenant of Makoto. I say what I mean, and when I act it will be followed through with all the effort I can muster. That is a promise. I do not have time for deciet or courtly games, lives are at stake, Mantis lives are at stake."
I scanned over the crowd majority of the Captains were nodding their heads in approval. "This I ask all of you what are we doing right now? More importantly why are we doing this? My concern is we just finished a war, and now we all turn on each other. We as a people should be building back from the death and destruction from that war, but instead we are killing each other while our enemies grow more powerful. Some of you have pledged your loyalty to the Shogun, I ask why did you do this? Others of you speak of the Emperor and your concern that turning against him is turning against the celestial order." I could see conflict already surfacing among the Captains.
"I do not wish to condemn any mans choice among us, we have all acted with the freedom of our souls which we have always treasured. I do however ask yourselves to think before we fully commit to these acts. Where will this take us all as a clan. Also is this what we truly wish to do. It is important we act together if we split then whatever we choose to do will not be as effective if we mustered all our might to accomplishing our goals." I clentched my gloved hand into a fist and placed it in the palm of my other hand.
"Please my fellow captains, my fellow clanmates, and my fellow friends the deck is open to discussion. Allow me to first welcome our Monkey friends Toku Kenpachi, Toku Hirotomo, and Fuzake Juta. You are of course welcome to add your thoughts on these matters as well. Secondly it is obvious at this point you all know I personally do not agree with what we are posed to do. The Shogun has us posed to raid and sack the coastline before us. Are we seen as just pirates? Are we seen as just barbarians that kill without reason? I have asked these questions to myself. I see this fleet as the most feared and respected naval power Rokugan has to offer. We have an opportunity to show the Empire that we are more than these things, The Mantis are a intelligent professional fighting force worthy of respect. " I paused looking at everyone assembled. "My brothers please speak your mind, speak your soul in these matters. There is no doubt in my mind history will be made soon, and our hand will be apart of it."
|
|
Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
|
Post by Toku Hirotomo on Aug 18, 2011 22:36:41 GMT -5
Kenpachi's eyes widened. He started to shake. Hirotomo looked at his father. "Father, are you okay?" he murmured quietly. Kenpachi shook his head. He knew that voice, not the tone, but the voice. A beard would not hide the eyes. What the hell was he thinking? Or did he even know? "I recognize someone," he muttered back. "I do not want to shock you, so I will tell you later." Hirtomo looked around. He knew none of the men assembled.
Hirotomo stepped forward, nodding as the Captain of the ship spoke. "I know personally none of those assembled, so I will start with an introduction. I am Toku Hirtomo, the Champion of the Monkey Clan. There are perhaps some that envision you as mere pirates and brutes, your enviable status as a Great Clan does not have a lengthy history. I've noticed that a majority of the other Great Clans enjoy change as a blade enjoys water. Why would anyone choose to slight another who have declared their loyalty to them? Why use your army, when not a soul on this earth can hope to match your navy? Let the Lion and the Unicorn have the land, you are the true Masters of the Sea.
I have been asked why I chose to fight for Toturi III. Why I risk destruction, in the face of a war. Great Clans can survive such a blow. A minor clan can not. I could have very easily, fortified my home, stayed well put, and let the Great Clans kill each other while chuckling to myself. Why would I enter a war when it means losing everything? I choose to do so because that is why we are samurai. I allow bushido to flow through me, and guide my actions. Some may say that I violate my oath, my oath of Champion my supersedes my oath of Gempukuu, and through a machination that was not my own, I was given a choice of who to support, without being blinded by tradition. If one supports tradition for the sole sake of tradition, then one loses the meaning behind tradition. Why go against the Celestial Order? Who decided that this was the Celestial Order? If a man can put aside or claim divinity at will, it is the Will of Heaven? Does one become divine when they sit in the Throne? When we have no idea what the Will of Heaven is, what is there to do? Follow tradition? A very good idea, the Hantei are our divinely mandated leaders. They are no more. Yes, we do have a Hantei XL, where is the blood? Unless the Akodo are hiding a blood tie to them, which history has not proved, there is none. Our divine leaders are gone, so what basis do we have? What if the war was for the Jade Champion or the Emerald Champion? What basis would we fight for them? Why we would judge the man. If one failed in his duties, such as allowing Gajin gain a stronghold in the Imperial City, or allowing the other Champion fall to the Shadowlands, men would rally to the others' side due to their failure. No man is unaccountable for his shortcomings."
Hirotomo stood back respectfully. A few of the Hantei supporters were frothing at the mouth, but he was a Champion. They could not touch him. How could they argue for divine will and go against it by attacking him? Thankfully, there were more Toturi supporters here. Kenpachi was staring at the Captain to gauge his reaction. Kenpachi smiled at his son. He'd made a similar speech when rallying others to Toturi Tsudao, his Lady would weep to see the mess her brothers had caused. The war needed to be over. The wounds would take long enough to heal as it was.
|
|
|
Post by kentaro on Aug 19, 2011 8:10:24 GMT -5
"You ask many important questions, Yoritomo Masamoto-san. We would be wise to answer them, if only to ourselves."
"The civil war may be regrettable, but it is happening. If one feels there is no important difference between the rival emperors, then abstaining is an admirable choice."
"However, I feel there is an important difference. In the recent war against the invading Yobanjin tribes, Toturi the 3rd mustered armies and led the defense. To my eyes, all that Hantei the 40th did was attempt to assassinate his brother, as a potential threat. I'm afraid I see no honor, respect, safety or peace in having such a one on the throne."
"As to the matter of how I wage war, I must disagree with Yoritomo Masamoto-san. While some may see these naval actions as mere piracy and raiding, I see a different purpose. As I sail up and down the coast, I am seizing war material, both to better equip Toturi the 3rd's armies, and to deny them to Hantei. Every unexpected raid I mount ties up more troops in a fruitless coastal defense. I may concentrate my forces, my enemies must spread them out to defend everywhere. While some may deride these tactics as cowardly, I see honor in sparing the lives of my enemies by forcing them to defend positions I may not attack."
Kentaro smiled slightly as he continued,
"As to my fears, well, they are few. Death is not among them. A pointless death, over a disagreement that should be settled by duel or battle, even though distasteful, is not something I truly fear. At the risk of treating matters of great importance lightly, I suspect my one true fear would be an unsuitable marriage. Indeed, I can imagine no fate worse than marriage to some weak shadow of a woman, lacking in all strength. So, compared to that, death in battle, or even execution, pales."
|
|
Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
|
Post by Agasha Shodai on Aug 19, 2011 19:42:14 GMT -5
Moshi Kimiko, Hantei loyalist and Storm-rider raised and trained by the monks of Osano-Wo after her Family kicked her out following her accidental murder of a Moshi Daimyo's son while the boy had tried raping her at the age of eight, rode the winds. She had been following the Mantis fleet from the moment they had set sail from the City of Lightning in the hopes she would be able to determine their destination and send a warning to her self-adopted "Onii-sama," Void Master Agasha Shodai, before the Clan that had disowned her could attack the Phoenix - Onii-sama's Clan - or the Crane - Kakita Mitsouko-sama's people.
The loud *CRACK* of massive wood planks snapping - a sound that some said sounded like thunder, but Kimiko did not; having spent most of her life with the Thunder Monks - and the outraged cries of men and women facing an inglorious death at sea rose from below her. Kimiko head's, with its striped white and purple dye job, made a brief appearance from the cloud she'd crafted to provide her with cover from the adept eyes of the Moshi shugenja that accompanied each Mantis warship.
The Yoritomo Strike, flagship of the Mantis Clan champion, was experiencing its death throes, though its upper deck was undamaged as far as the girl of sixteen could see, suggesting that it was either the victim of sabotage (unlikely,) poor maintenance (even less likely,) or had suffered a case of catasrophic bad luck. The ship was coming apart at the seams, hemoraging armored samurai and sailors the way a neck wound spurts blood. The sailors were able to grab onto flotsam and jetsam to keep from drowning, but the light armor of the Mantis Bushi was heavy enough to restrict their ability to swim and pull them to the depths of the ocean.
A pair of properly-trained Moshi shugenja - Kimiko's own training was rather haphazard since she'd been banished from her family before her gift for magic had been properly nurtured, having emerged - uncontrolled - in a moment of extreme stress that still gave the young woman nightmares - were attempting to calm the turbulent ocean through magic from the deck of the sinking warship. They had just gotten the kami of the ocean to calm down when the ship's main mast lost its mooring and collapsed on them, killing them instantly.
Getting a wild notion, Moshi Kimiko cast a spell, bidding the air kami to shield her from the eyes of anyone safe enough to not need to focus on staying alive, and descended from from the sky. She landed by the crushed shugenja - one male and one female - but did not recognize either of them; unsurprising because the man had been completely smashed by the fallen mast while the woman's skull had been popped like a bubble on a needle.
Kimiko carefully examined the dead woman's outfit and hairstyle as she wove a complex spell of air and water to permanently alter her appearance, leaving only her facial features untouched. It was a risk, but the young woman was counting on the events of the ship's sinking to be so traumatic for the survivors - and the fact that most Moshi females (since the Family was Matriarchal) tended to remain aloof - that they wouldn't realize she was swapping places with the dead woman.
As the spell ran its course, Kimiko unfastened the dead woman's scroll satchel and attached it to her own waist. The young shugenja looked at the scrolls just long enough to ensure she could still read the Moshi Family cipher - glad that a retired Moshi shugenja at the Shrine to Osano-Wo, upon hearing her story, had chosen to overlook the girl's banishment and teach her in the ways of her stolen birthright - had instructed her how to understand.
Moshi Kimiko felt the ocean lick at her heels, soaking her tabi, as the front half of the ship began to sink beneath the waves as the air bubble that had kept it afloat was extinguished. The shugenja ran up the shattered mast and dove into the ocean, banishing the illusion of absence as she did so.
"Priestess Mizuki!"[/b] One of the sailors called, waiving to her from a raft made of shattered deck. "Over here, m'lady!"[/b]
The erstatz "Moshi Mizuki" swam to the raft and the sailor - a man old enough to be her father - pulled her aboard. "What happened?"[/b] The man shook his head, at a loss for an explaination. Kimiko nodded as she chanted a simple spell and a ball of lightning burst into existance in the sky above. "The others will come for us eventually. Work with the other survivors to rig a larger raft to help keep as many of us alive as possible until then!"[/b] She said with a confident smile.
The sailor nodded, encouraged by "Mizuki's" confidence and began to shout orders to the sailors nearby.
|
|
Yoritomo Raiden
Mantis Clan Mod
Mantis Clan - Shugenja - Water - Thunder - Damiyo - Not Kolat
Posts: 437
|
Post by Yoritomo Raiden on Aug 19, 2011 21:35:14 GMT -5
I heard the two make their comments, and looked at the assembled captains. I had to be heard and break through the contempt, the fear, and the follower mentality that dominated some of their minds. I could read the men assembled. The body language of Hirotomo suggested he didn't reconise me. I couldn't help but wonder how he had became champion? That was a well spoken speech trying to discredit my points. He learned from his father well. The notion made me laugh a little. I met eyes with Kenpachi, and gave alot away with my gaze. Frustration, anger, hatred, disappointment, rage, and loathing. I was as though I sped him up on my journey just by gaze. There was contradictions in what he said, and I could sense a fear in him. I shook my head looking at him then turned to look at Kentaro.
"If I may Kentaro-san, a few questions and counterpoints." I was respectful and now showed no emotion on my face. "The position of Shogun is established to run the Emperors Armies. Kaneka moving to intercept the yobanjin tribes was implied in his job, which is sanctioned by the Emperor. From what I have heard to this day the Emperor has not came out and announced his attempted assassination on the Shogun. With the position of Shogun he has undoubtedly made enemies. As for how WE wage war I completely agree with you. I was speaking on how rokugan sees us. I agree this is how we do business during times of conflict. However others see us as raiders."
I felt rage stirring in my heart, like embers in a fire that has been burning slow and steady forever. I looked back at Kenpachi. Once again my eyes showed my wounds from the past, and what I had learned. I turned to see Hirotomo. I closed my eyes and tuned out everything except for the sounds of waves hitting the hull. A breeze on my face. The fire cooled but still burned.
"Hirotomo as with Kentaro-san a few questions and things to point out. First are the Monkey unified in this? the Monkey provide a vital duty to the Empire. The Monkey keeps the Empire safe from criminals, real criminals. I know for a fact you do not have the numbers to wage War and provide your duties to the Empire. War is always bad for the peasantry of the Empire. Looting, killing, kidnapping, and banditry. As Champion of the Monkey you should focus on your duties and protect the people of Rokugan from less savory sort. Also if you allow Bushido to flow through you in all actions, what of Duty. Fighting against the Emperor just on some rumors is an abandonment of your first duty to the Emperor and the Empire. If everyone whom follows the Shogun feels the same it would be a collapse of the society that has lasted for hundreds of years. At this point what seperates us from the Yobanjin we just defeated, how many tenants of Bushido will we bend before it suits us?"
I approached closer to the Monkey party.
"I sense fear in your words as well, I know you wish to prove yourself. If I am correct you are one of the youngest Champions recorded. Do not let this go to your head. Show wisdom please. The Minor Clans are renown for showing great compassion, waging war is not to show compassion. This is over your head, people need you, I implore you to seek not this conflict." I looked away to Kenpachi. I knew his pride for his son. His son needed him now more than ever.
I made my voice louder so all captains could hear me. " I have seen first hand the Shoguns concern for the minor clans of Rokugan. Left to the slaughter on their march to aid the Shogun during the Yobanjin War. He could have helped but chose not to. How long before he sees the Mantis as such? How long after his victory are we seen as expendable? I will not let my Clan be condemned to this fate. I have seen too many good men who deserved to live die that day, and for what a few moments breathing time for the Shoguns troops. There has been no mention to their sacrifices, its like they turned to dust and consumed in something greater than themselves. This will not happen again. If any of you captains wish to be more than just pirates come with me. A unified Mantis force doing our duty to the Empire. Masters of the seas. Right now we have Clans still following the Emperor that could use our help. Desperately need our help, and we could in fact make alliances that would be extremely beneficial to our levies and people back in the islands. The Crane are being attacked from all sides. I purpose we talk with them first."
|
|
|
Post by kentaro on Aug 19, 2011 22:28:03 GMT -5
Kentaro shook his head ruefully after hearing Yoritomo Masamoto's reply.
"I suspect we are at a point where agreement is unlikely to occur. Rather than insult the collective intelligence of all gathered by restating what I have already said I believe to be the honorable course, I shall regrettably bid farewell to this gathering. My apologies for any rudeness, especially to any guests of the Mantis present today. I may be reached either through Kyuden Tsuruchi, or among the armies of Toturi the 3rd."
Standing to leave, Kentaro continued:
"I shall not cease in my efforts in the cause of Toturi the 3rd, but I shall not position my units in such a way that I am forced to bear arms against my own Clan. Please honor this choice and do not put me in a position where I must shed Mantis blood."
Kentaro returned to his launch alongside the Sun's Gambit, and climbed easily down the rope. "We're done here," he said to his rowers, with a hint of regret.
We shall all suffer from this war, win or lose.
|
|
Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
|
Post by Toku Hirotomo on Aug 19, 2011 23:15:48 GMT -5
Hirotomo winced at the Captain's words. "My duty, is to ensure a peaceful Rokugan, not to sit on my backside, or follow against my own honor. The Monkey are unified among this. I've given each man a say, and each has declared for Toturi. If there are any who support the Hantei, they are either too cowardly to come forward, or more likely nonexistent. Peace can be achieved this way with a strong throne, it will be easier to hunt down the criminal elements, the Maho taint, rather than a man who must convey with the stars before he actually does something. That's for the Phoenix, not a protector of an Empire."
Hirotomo turned to the other captains. "Indeed, the small minor clan force suffered heavy losses. We also know that's tradition. I never got a better offer from anyone else. The men I sent to the Emerald Champion were set at the front, the men I send to the other clans are sent to the front, because we are a minor clan. We are seen as pawns. It's our lot in life. Should I allow the treatment of my men affect my judgement? When I would never get better treatment from anyone else? I don't lament my dead, I glorify them. Death on a battlefield is a great honor. For each one we have sacrificed, there is one that will not know that honor.
As for my youth, yes I am the youngest Champion. Do you think me too stubborn to look to aid from those wiser than I? We've forged an Alliance with Toturi loyal Dragon, and with other elements within the Empire. Now you talk to me of abandoning oaths, when you ask for parlay with the enemies of the man you swore loyalty to. Talking to you enemies when they are weak because you may gain from betraying the man who your clan swore allegiance to. I assumed I was talking to the Mantis, takers of destiny, men of their word, not the Scorpion."
What was this idiot captain thinking? Abandon what we said, then betray the one we declared loyalty to. No wonder that captain left in disgust. They needed to attack the Crane, not grovel at their feet and beg parlance.
"My son has Crane blood," Kenpachi said quietly. "He does not let such ties blind him to his duty. Perhaps there are those that look at the Crane with softer eyes, remembering their beauty, forgetting their actions. Parlay? You are warriors! You are samurai, a defeated enemy begging for help is dishonorable. No matter what history you may have with them." Kenpachi kept his eyes on the Captain. Did he not hear about Mitsouko's stepping over his body and falling for someone else mere weeks after his disappearance? What his son said about Emma-O aside. She still had a choice, and she made it. Why would he try to entertain such notions? Emotion was clouding his actions.
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Aug 21, 2011 17:31:18 GMT -5
High above the Mantis Fleet Kaminari glided across the night sky, still savoring the fish he captured during his last stoop. Manji was glad to feel the night air against his wings, Kaminari's wings, and the smell of the sea again but didn't like what he had seen. Tsuruchi Kentaro abandoning Masamoto's ship bode ill for the Yoritomo's plans and, as Manji feared, the Mantis would not come to a common ground in this matter. Maybe it had been too much, to dream that the men who so quickly forswore their true allegiance in order to support the pretender would suddenly listen to reason, rediscover their honor and make peace with the bushido. He would still do his duty though, even if for that he may end up disowned by his Clan and called a traitor. His allegiance to the kami and the Empire itself would always come first.
The Sun's Gambit The wagtail flew silently through the night, arriving at The Sun's Gambit shortly after Tsuruchi Kentaro left the ship. It perched near Yoritomo Masamoto and whispered to him:
Masamoto-sama, this is Kitsune Manji. I've met with Kakita Mitsouko-sama and Yasuki Chad-sama. They send you their support but won't be able to send a personal messenger to the parley. As such, I was tasked with going back to the Mantis Fleet, helping you in any way possible and messaging Mitsouko-sama about the results of your plans. She added that she will be glad to meet you once things calm down and that any help you manage to gather will be appreciated. She also asked you not to kick the Monkey Champion into the sea. I'm on my way down the river, we'll meet soon.
With it's message delivered, the wagtail dissipated into the sea winds.
Outside Toshi Ranbo With one last thought before returning to his own body, Manji counseled Kaminari to stay out of arrow range. Back aboard the boat, he felt at ease. At least, now Masamoto had received the message and would know what to expect, there wasn't much more he could do from a distance. Then, he prayed to the air kami for swift winds to guide him and for the water kami to speed his way through the river, as he left Toshi Ranbo behind.
[ooc: I must add that, while not impossible, it's hard to hear the whispers of the wind kami and, besides knowing what to expect from the spell, one would have to strain himself to do so.]
EDIT: minor fixes.
|
|
Tsuruchi Kimo
Mantis Clan
Mantis Clan Samurai - Courtier - Magistrate
Posts: 4
|
Post by Tsuruchi Kimo on Aug 21, 2011 22:32:00 GMT -5
I remain silent while all the crew present their arguments. For a moment I let my mind wander with the wind that hits Sun's Gambit, as if nothing else mattered. In an instant, my thoughts go back several years in the past, remembering my childhood, way before my gempukku, when I was taught the virtues of a true samurai. After a deep breath I step forward and do my statement:
"Justice or injustice, truth or lie, were not points of debate. There is only right and wrong. Black and white. No shades of gray. You should all know that. Praises and curses do not define honor. Only the truth does. And, at this very moment, the truth is: no matter what others can possibly say, Kaneka and Hantei came from the same bloodline. Same father, same ancestors. It´s pointless to argue about the Celestial Order, but tradition is a completely different subject. However, there is no reason to be ashamed to say what you think, or being rude to your hosts or guests.
The truth is, unless I am very wrong, none of us has been living side-by-side with the Emperor or the Shogun. All I´ve been hearing are rumors. Rumors are just gossip".
I give a fair pause, look to my captain and then right to the Monkey Champion.
With all the respect, Mirotomo-sama, if you see no difference between the rivals since they share the same blood and think we are being blinded by tradition, there is no point to be so offended on that matter.
Bushido flows into your veins as you said. Sooner or later, you must agree, one must fufill his destiny. What separates wise men from the children is courage. Taking action for what is right, knowing the consequences of doing it. My loyalty is to our empire, and that puts me bellow my emperor, my clan, my champion and my captain.
No matter if the usurper is trying to take the emperor´s throne or a champion´s position. A thief will always be a thief, and must face the punishment for such a treason".
That being said, I bow to my captain and turn over to go back to my assignments.
|
|
Yoritomo Raiden
Mantis Clan Mod
Mantis Clan - Shugenja - Water - Thunder - Damiyo - Not Kolat
Posts: 437
|
Post by Yoritomo Raiden on Aug 22, 2011 1:39:17 GMT -5
I stood and saw Kentaro stand and begin to leave. It made me regrettable in a way. This entire situation was wrong to begin with. Something was on the horizon. Something greater than the Yobanjin War, and as it goes we would be to weak to face it. We need to be ready, which is why I need to think of the clan first.
"It does appear we are at a em pass Kentaro-san. I will order likewise I will not suffer Mantis to shed its own blood. May the winds carry you to glory and fortune brother." regretfully I knew going into this endeavor not all captains would agree. In fact loses were already accounted for. I watched Kentaro take the rope down to his boat and couldn't help but feel the sting of him leaving.
After hearing Hirotomo's speech, I began to clap. Slowly and methodically. "You will have to forgive me Hirotomo, but why would a clan of magistrates and law enforcers willing allow others to usurp the Emperor. Even more so I still would think in the wake of this conflict they would be keeping the peace. In the time it will take for a new throne to move in and establish policies many innocents would have died where the monkey could have prevented those deaths. You must forgive me, but it seems to me that someone who doesn't know you that well might think you are willing to throw away the good name of the monkey with all the champions before for your own personal gain and glory. I know this however cannot be true since yours is the clan of virtue. Personal gain is beneath you and yours i'm sure." I smiled at Hirotomo showing the white of my teeth. "It is part of the Monkeys mandate to lend magistrates where needed so I applause you for up keeping this action. However yes the treatment of your men is a priority of any champion. You serve them as much as they serve you. There are many duties that a champion must perform for his or her men. It is the signs of a noble leader, the kind that ones men follow because they want to not because they have to. I don't know who has been treating you any less either. I personally enjoy the company of the minor clans, with a few exceptions they are saved from the games of the courts, in a way they are more down to earth. A trait many of the great clans have become to lack. I personally don't like the courtly games. They annoy me rather quickly."
I walked over to some of the crates stacked two high and hopped up onto the top crate. "As far as being stubborn goes my answer is yes. Every Monkey I have met has been stubborn as hell. I mean lets face it you've been on my ship for a little over five minutes and have already insulted me and been rather rude many times. In my eyes it I had a point to make which I haven't finished yet and you are all ready trying to discredit me. This is not a Game of Sadane. If I was more of a politician I would think you are trying to make an enemy of me, and I haven't been acting Champion of the Mantis for a day yet. I know this isn't the case because Kenpachi-san has a reputation for wits and intelligence and he would have taught you better."
I stared off into the horizon towards Toshi Ranbo. "I also try to get as you say enemies here in hopes that this conflict can be solved peacefully. I believe every clan in our history has solved differences in this way. Correct me if i'm wrong though, unless of course the Toturi loyalists have already determined the mass execution of the Hantei loyalists if they win this conflict. I see no oath broken to try and talk sense in people who see things in a different perspective. A warning though Hirotomo, you've known me for a very short time. Coming onto my ship and calling me a scorpion is a quick way to be thrown from my ship. I will not suffer an insult like that again."
I stared into the eyes of the young champion, and what he saw staring back at him was nothing. No emotion at all. Only promise. I turned then to look at Kenpachi. "As far as Crane family members, congratulations? I say the Crane are right here because they are being attacked from all sides and have alot of resources that they could make a deal with us to obtain. For the betterment of my people. What was the purpose of this visit anyhow? Or was trying to incite your only goal today?"
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Aug 22, 2011 2:39:52 GMT -5
Kitsune Ren stood silent for a long time, hearing samurai of a much higher standing than him speak. His only wish was a simple one, to serve the Kami, his Empire and his Clan to the best of his abilities, which was why he saw no point in a civil war. But after hearing the Monkeys speak he wondered if all the other Toturi supporters were as foolish and full of bravado. Still, it would not do to play the game of insults with armed bushi, for when the blood goes hot, swords go hungry and he would prefer to avoid bloodshed during a peace meeting.
After hearing his Captain's speech, he turned to the Monkey Champion and said, respectfully, Hirotomo-sama, my name is Kitsune Ren and I'm a simple shugenja aboard this vessel, who is trying to serve both his Clan and his allegiances, as I think you also are. So, please, help me understand some of the things you've said, because they are clearly beyond my comprehension, and bowed to the Monkeys aboard the ship.
First, which Dragons are you speaking of? If I got my informations right, every single former Dragon that declared his support for the Shogun abandoned his family name and became a ronin, including their former Champion, Takezo-sama. And, once you give away your rights, be it to a name or to a throne, you can't simply ignore that fact and do as you please afterwards. The Dragons you speak of are no longer Dragons, please, correct me if I'm wrong here.
Second, you talk about rumors and slander as if they were immutable truths. If the Emperor wished any of our deaths, had not he simply to ask for it? Or even command us if needed be? Would we not be bound, by Bushido, to obey? Although using such examples don't please me, I must say, didn't even the Spiders subject to the Emperor's will and committed Seppuku when commanded? So, please, explain to me why would the Emperor order the assassination of Akodo Kaneka-sama if, in case he wanted Kaneka-sama dead, he had only to ask for it?
Third, if we were to question the claims of both our Emperor and Akodo Kaneka-sama, which do you think would be truer according to Rokugani law? That of Akodo Kaneka-sama, illegitimate son of Toturi I and a geisha or that of the Emperor, legitimate son of Toturi I and Empress Kaede? And if we don't have our laws to live by, what separates us from the barbarians we fight against?
And lastly, have you just said you support the Shogun because you don't approve of the Emperor's policies? Have you any privileged source of information that allows you to know why the Emperor does what he does or what difficulties he have to deal with daily? Are we to allow that anyone who disagrees with those he'd sworn fealty to simply take up arms and go against their lords? I am not speaking of Celestial Order here but of Bushido, as you are a bushi and that should be the code to which you answer. If I remember myself correctly, the tenets of Bushido are Jin, Yu, Rei, Chugo, Gi, Meyo and Makoto. You most certainly don't lack in Yu and Makoto but those don't make the entirety of the code and one cannot simply bend his vows to accommodate his wishes, otherwise, his words become like the wind. As I see it, if you are a samurai, that is, sworn to serve your liege, what would you do if said liege ruled in a way that displeased you? Which would be wiser? Would you try to counsel him and steer his course to a path that you judge honorable? Would you try to understand his reasons, after all, he may be seeing a bigger picture than you? or would you put a sword at his throat and declare yourself lord in his place, all the while swearing to do better?
Ren expressed himself with calm and composure, trying not to anger the samurai, despite the obvious bite in his words, I must say that I'm not questioning your personal honor or that of your Clan but, sometimes, the place where the true loyalty of an individual should lie becomes blurred and it is always wise to reflect about one's problems at these times. I, once, had a similar philosophical discussion with Kitsune Manji-sama while we shared the road. I don't know if he will arrive in time for this meeting but it would be a shame for you two not to meet, as you both would surely benefit from the experience.
I apologize for the long questions and all the philosophy but one cannot help his training. I do think they needed to be asked though, so, please forgive me if I gave you any offense, he said while offering one last bow to the Monkeys.
Afterwards, Ren bowed to his Captain and returned to his place. He grew silent and reached for his waterskin, while awaiting for the Monkey Champion to muse over the arguments respectfully posed to him.
[ooc: Many apologies for the long post, but I couldn't help it.] EDIT: those pesky typos.
|
|
Kitsune Poxo
Mantis Clan
Mantis Clan | Shugenja | Earth | Thunder | Kitsune Blooded | Naval | Daimyo | Unique
Posts: 225
|
Post by Kitsune Poxo on Aug 22, 2011 10:59:36 GMT -5
Kitsune Daichi stood silently as the gathering went back and forth. He offered a firm bow as Tsuruchi Kentaro left but nothing more as he went back to paying attention to the gathering. He began noticing something and pieced small things together.
"My pardon, but it seems that we stand on an issue that none seems to budge on. Defense on both sides seems to swing on the belief of actions to be nothing more than rumors, gossip, and he say. Maybe there is but another that we have not heard?"
Daichi cocked his head looking thoughtfully upwards. "We place so much on ones lineage as well. Forgive but I am sure what I about to say may be considered treason but what if to say that the mother of each were actually the reverse? Or perhaps one is to say that the geisha was actually a samurai. I hear scorpion do love such deception for control later. Perhaps the one that sits on the throne is nothing but lies. Now my apologies as this speculation may just hamper our debate as I veer sidewise."
Daichi looked at the gathering as he continued on wards. "Now in any case I can see your stand point of gossip not being enough to swear loyalty and such maybe I should have done deeper investigation before declaring my loyalty but you see I am not a magistrate and I certainly not as odd as those Kitsuke, but that assassination attempt was not the only one on the emperor's brothers, so it seemed plausible. In fact, I had witnessed the attempt on Isawa Sezaru, granted could be wrong on his lineage. Now whether or not that was from the emperor as well, I cannot truly say as of yet."
"Now, if you mind, let me pose a question. Is there a way for what once false to become true or what of the reverse? What of gossip and rumors, could one simply write it in the history then the belief of it eventually make it true? What of saying something that is false at the time then produce evidence or a mandate from the one in charge at a later time making it true? Is not the Monkey clan a testament to such a thing?"
|
|
Yoritomo Raiden
Mantis Clan Mod
Mantis Clan - Shugenja - Water - Thunder - Damiyo - Not Kolat
Posts: 437
|
Post by Yoritomo Raiden on Aug 22, 2011 23:14:34 GMT -5
Kaminari perched on a rail near me and delivered Manji-san message. My eyes widened when I heard Mitsouko was at Toshi Ranbo. I felt a sudden surge of emotion well up in me. I pushed it down. I couldn't afford to let it control my actions, not now.
"Good I look forward to greeting you myself when you arrive." My voice was a little irritated from the previous conversation and this new knowledge.
After hearing Kimo-san testimony I smiled with pride in knowing that my crew and other captains were behind these reasons.
During the course of the debate some of the other captains bid there farewells, but more stayed. This was important. It showed that the Mantis as free spirited as they were knew what had to be done. Maybe we weren't unified, but we did have numbers. That was something to build on. The Majority of the captains that remained were of Yoritomo family. We had few Tsuruchi captains left. The Moshi and Kitsune members were still bordered.
Kitsune Dachi came forward and presented his thoughts. After hearing his words I presed my gloved hand to my chin and considered what he said thoughtfully.
"You come from an angle not yet presented as such. You are correct most are rumors and there could have had a geisha that was a samurai instead, but that is just speculation. We could create many what if's, but all we have is what is documented and is seen as fact. Given the opportunity and time im sure the Scorpion can discover some legitimate proof to support these notions." I let a little bit of friendly sarcasm through with my comment of scorpions forging documents. After I laughed a bit as for Dachi to laugh with me. I followed with a friendly grin. "As for as the assassination attempt, if the Emperor wanted his brother dead wouldn't he just order him to seppaku. I mean it just seems to me that the attempt was someone whom wished to make it seem like the Emperor was involved to put the clans against each other so this person or persons could go about with their plans un noticed."
I posed my answers as a conversation based tone, not telling my reply more like stating it, as to get feedback of agreement or disagreeabe to carry on a civilized conversation. Dachi-san posed his question.
"It all depends upon the reaction of the recipients. When Toku offered his life to Toturi for deceiving him. Toturi spared him and offered him his own clan. Toturi accepted this falsehood for being what it was. He also looked at the deeds of Toku and determined he had the soul and heart of a samurai, so he made it so. Like i'm sure whomever wins this conflict the history scrolls will reflect that groups point of view reguardless of the actual truth.
Yoritomo Nenkai approached in a hurried state of being. She did a quick yet precise salute. "Captain we have just received the survivors of the Yoritomo Strike have just been brought aboard."
"Thank you Nenkai-san, maybe now we can get some answers." I somehow knew I wasn't going to get any sleep today.
|
|
Tamori Manji
Dragon Clan Mod
Demon Fox (妖狐)
?Dragon Clan ?Hatamoto ?Fire ?Void ?Yamabushi ?Tattoed ?Nonhuman
Posts: 922
|
Post by Tamori Manji on Aug 22, 2011 23:35:57 GMT -5
EDIT: OOC - It seems like I posted this around the same time as Masamoto-san, so, I think it's best to fit this text after his words but before Nenkai arrives with news. In another note, Masamoto-san, the bird who arrived was an air kami shaped like a common wagtail, a little bird. I know it can be a bit confusing as I'm always using different birds and such for my spells, and for that I apologize. Kaminari is currently way above the Mantis Fleet and serves as my eyes, from time to time. To tell the truth, I rarely use him to deliver messages, I only did it that first time because I wanted him to be seen while leaving Toshi Ranbo, which, fortunately, happened. I added some lines to make it fit better.
Ren found himself deep in thought, staring at the dark sea waters, feeling the brush of the salt air against his skin and through his hair, while the other Kitsune made his speech. He pondered the other shugenja's words for some time, then said in a sad tone, after his Captain pronounced himself, Daichi-san is correct about one thing, we cannot simply force each other to understand one another's points of view. Yet, that is the purpose of war, to conform other people's actions to what you perceive as right. And that is why I'm essentially opposed to it. I don't support Hantei or Toturi, I support the Kami, the Empire, it's people, our people. But can we truly be neutral in times like these? Can we stand aside when so much pointless death and misery assail the land?
Although I understand your reasoning brother, he said to Daichi in a tone reserved only for those of the Fox family, I cannot help but ask you, if we are not to trust the right of blood, how would you suggest the Empire be ruled? Should we split the realm, leaving each Great Clan to fend for themselves while the Minor Clans either suffer or are annexed like our own? Should we gather the Clans, consult the Oracles and abide to their answer? Or should we abolish the Imperial rule and strive to change the Celestial Order itself?
He paused for a moment, looking each of the parley attendants in turn and observing their reactions, for he knew the questions presented had no true answer. We also know that now is past the time to mount an investigation. There are no witnesses to plead their cases and no proof for the Kitsuki to analyze, all we are left now are rumors and hearsay. So, I won't blame anyone for believing what is said and whispered throughout the Empire, for I too don't know where truth lies. What I don't understand though is how so many were so fast to act based on rumors, instead of trying to find the truth while there was still time for it, he paused for an instant then said respectfully to Yoritomo, my Captain, I feel like you about this and a Scorpion investigation may prove useful, but I fear they can find any truth at any time they want.
As for your question my friend, I must say that while truth may be shaped by history and history by those that remain alive to write it, be they conquerors, victors or survivors, our inner truth is one and we have but to look inside ourselves to find it. I ask that each and every one of you look inside yourselves and answer one simple question, where does your true allegiance lie? If you find that question already shaped into steel and set in stone, we have no business discussing it anymore, for no man can hope to change the truth of another's heart, Ren paused for a moment, remembering his brief travel with Manji more than a month ago, then said, with a voice full of sadness, as he gazed into the dark night sea, Manji-sama once told me we can only hope for agreements and peace when one's heart is as empty as the void and as malleable as water. Now I understand his words and find them true.
He paused after noticing Yoritomo Nenkai arriving with an urgent look upon her face.
|
|