Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
Lion Clan Champion?Samurai?Tactician?Loyal?Paragon of Sincerity?Defender of the Empire
Posts: 1,042
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Aug 31, 2011 11:54:41 GMT -5
He turned his head slightly to face his friend. Kazuma-san my friend, thank you for coming on such short notice. Do you know Utaku Mai?
He gestured towards Kazuma. Utaku-san, this is Shiba Kazuma, Champion of the Phoenix clan.
He returned his gaze Kazuma I have reports that your not the only Phoenix amongst us, perhaps you should figure out who it is. Regardless, there will be much honor for us, my friend.
He frowned and reengaged Mai in conversation. Well believe it or not I am the highest cause of death amongst Crane Clan samurai these days. I do hope I have not met your father in battle, tell me what he looks like so that I may spare his life, for you have certainly earned that much from me, and perhaps more as this conversation goes on.
He waved a hand to dismiss the horrible subject. I must say my dear, that I am impressed with your courage in the face of a high ranking member of another clan. Most samuari are too busy not trying to give offense that they tend to forget I am a human being as well. My compliments to your Sensei, if you wish I could write you a letter of recommendation saying as such.
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Utaku Mai
Unicorn Clan
*Battle Maiden* *Paragon of Honor* *Goddamn Rockstar*
Posts: 484
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Post by Utaku Mai on Aug 31, 2011 15:33:55 GMT -5
Mai rose and gave a low, formal bow in Shiba Kazuma's direction. "It is an honor, Shiba-sama. I'm surprised to see the Phoenix champion in our camp, though I should have known better than to think the Phoenix clan was of one mind in this time of conflict."To Tomatsu: "I have no doubt of your skill, Akodo-sama, though I selfishly like to think you may never have to face him in battle. My father has always been a tactician. The wounds from his younger days keep him from the front lines, but his mind is still of much use to the Crane. He walks with a slight limp on his left side, has a keen eye for his enemy's weaknesses, and goes by the name of Daidoji Kuzon."Mai was taken aback by the accolades of the Lion champion, but she flashed a smile . "My sensei taught me never to shrink from a challenge, Tomatsu-dono. It may have led to delusions of grandeur on my part in matters of dealing with my betters, but at least she may rest well knowing her lessons have been put to good use."OOC: from here, Mai can make a gracious exit if Kazuma and Tomatsu want to talk privately. I'm still happy to RP but figured I'd leave that open so as not to hog the lion champion too much.
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
Lion Clan Champion?Samurai?Tactician?Loyal?Paragon of Sincerity?Defender of the Empire
Posts: 1,042
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Aug 31, 2011 16:14:46 GMT -5
(OOC I'll update this with a post or make a new one later on, but please stay Mai, there are others who want to come by and say hi and I want to learn more about your character
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Post by kentaro on Aug 31, 2011 17:35:43 GMT -5
Kentaro, having his humorous offer of surrender apparently taken seriously, was momentarily taken aback. Composing himself, he replied:
"My apologies, Lion-san. I have been awake and warring for two days straight; perhaps my joking offer to surrender was in poor taste. As we are both loyal to Toturi the 3rd, no surrender is necessary. As we are allies, and war rages all around us, I see no need to disarm myself or my men, unless we are to be meeting with a daimyo."
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Akodo Taiyo
Lion Clan
Lion Clan Hero ? Samurai ? Tactican ? Shireikan ? Honorable ? Loyal
Posts: 196
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Post by Akodo Taiyo on Aug 31, 2011 21:35:55 GMT -5
Taiyo burst out laughing, placing his hands on his hips and rocking forward and back for a moment until he could regain his composure.
Please forgive me, bowing his head slightly to Kaida-san but this is delightful! I had taken you for an emissary, or envoy of some sort, but clearly I was mistaken. This is something of a riddle to me. Hmmm, my mother liked riddles very much. She was a Shosuro you know? When I was little, she would pose riddles to me. I was not the most exceptional child; sometimes it would take days before I could deduce her meaning, and even then I often missed the point she was trying to make. No matter, let me see what I can deduce from your riddle.
Taiyo straightened his back and gazed at the trio for a moment. You are not an emissary, but you are a librarian and priestess. You were sent on a mission, but not to the Lion. You did not intend to come to this camp, but here you are, and escorted by our esteemed Monkey companion. If I had a choice between sending a priestess or a librarian to the front lines of a major conflict, I would choose the priestess, for those skills would be needed much more than the other in such a situation.
Taiyo paused for a moment, not for effect, but simply because he was pleased with himself, and it showed by the smile on his face. Unfortunately for you, there are no other Phoenix here, as they stand with our adversaries on the other side of the battle field. I cannot allow you to cross the battle field, since you have been to the command center and seen firsthand the layout of our encampment, your mission is terminated. Instead of a priestess, you are now a hostage. The only question I have left is this
Turning to look questioningly at Hirotomo “whose hostage are you?”
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Post by Isawa Kaida on Aug 31, 2011 21:58:30 GMT -5
Puzzlement crossed Kaida's features briefly as Taiyo spoke, though she nodded when he finished.
"You are correct in that the Phoenix did not send a librarian, Akodo-sama," she smiled slightly. "Though as it was a Lion patrol that bade me come here, would not I be a hostage of the Lion?"
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Aug 31, 2011 22:30:36 GMT -5
"Perhaps," Hirotomo murmured. "Though the noble Lion are busy, and I do not want to deprive your bushi the chance for glory. No doubt the young hohei you'd set to guard Lady Isawa-san would do so in an exemplary manner, but perhaps the Alliance can care for her. There would be more room for her at least, and any of my samurai are but half of a mighty Lion bushi, the battlefield would miss your samurai more than mine."
Hirotomo did not mention that his healers were tasked to the brim already. They were few and far apart, and most had been working since the first assault. He wanted to prove the Alliance could hold their own, but it was divided thanks to the nature of the conflict. Nakata managed to gather supplies, thanks to good timing, and they had enough food, but armor and food would have no meaning if there were no bushi to wear it or eat it. He wished his father would have come to the battle with him, but he had his reasons. He was not going to fight the war, and Hirotomo chose to accept that. He did not know how to deal with the Lion, his own inexperience was gnawing at him. He wished he had more time to spend with the other Clans. All he knew about the Lion was from his Crane classmates, and it was not flattering.
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Kitsu Natsuki
Lion Clan
Lion Clan * Daimyo * Shugenja * Sodan-senzo * Loyal * Ambassador to the Dragon
Posts: 162
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Post by Kitsu Natsuki on Sept 1, 2011 1:22:00 GMT -5
"May they watch over you as well, Keisuke-dono."
Natsuki quickly left the tent, heading towards her own tent. Leaving strict orders not to allow anyone in, she took a small bowl of water and began whispering prayers to the water kami, begging their indulgence in allowing her to see what their brethren scattered around the city saw. As she finished the prayer by invoking the name of Suitengu, fortune of the Sea, the water in the bowl rippled, forming images of the walls of Toshi Ranbo.
Natsuki had visited Toshi Ranbo often in happier times, both before and after it became the Imperial City. As such, she knew exactly what and where she was looking at. The rising waters around the city also simplified her task, giving her a much larger field of view. As she focused on the south-west gate of the city, she saw a few riders flying the mon of the Tamori and making haste northwards. The Tamori daimyo. It was a pity that a proper siege could not be maintained as long as the Crane held the east side of the city. It simply would not do to have the besieged simply coming and going as they pleased.
She continued her survey for some time, always attempting to penetrate further into the city. However, the wards set up by the Hidden Guard proved to be proof against the sight of the kami, and she could view no location further from the walls than the outer districts. Nonetheless, the information obtained was invaluable nonetheless. The Crane appeared to be strongly reinforcing the walls, supported by those of the Dragon who remained loyal to the Hantei. She noted a large number of archers and what seemed to be yamabushi there. Much as it pained her, it appeared that she would have to send some of the Kitsu into battle to neutralize the enemy shugenja. There were indeed some Kitsu who longed for battle, but Natsuki was of a more traditional bent and firmly believed that a shugenja's place was behind the battle lines, lending support. Of course, desperate times called for desperate measures.
When she finally lifted her head from the bowl and exited, she noted the sun was low on the horizon. As far as she could tell, she had been there for nearly 4 hours. However tired she felt, the information she had obtained needed to be reported immediately. She quickly headed towards the command tent at a brisk walk. Upon entering, Natsuki noted with some surprise the presence of not only her Champion, but the Phoenix one as well. Had they not declared for the Hantei? The presence of a Battle Maiden standing to one side was also a little unusual.
Natsuki dropped into a formal bow. "Greetings, Champion-samas, Utaku-san. My humblest apologies for the intrusion. I was unaware that you were already occupied, Tomatsu-sama. If you wish, I can return later to give my report."
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Matsu Yoshino
Lion Clan
Lion Clan * Bushi * Brash*Tomatsu's Yojimbo * Matsu Elite Guard
Posts: 128
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Post by Matsu Yoshino on Sept 1, 2011 2:01:03 GMT -5
(OOC: Urg, computer ate the last one, sigh.)
Yoshino rises from her meditation, visions of her ancestors fresh in her mind. She bows to the kami in the small, untouched glade, and begins to make her way back across the battlefield. For a moment, a look of disgust crosses her fair features as she sees the many Samurai killed in an orgy of destruction, wondering if their honor remains intact in this kind of death. She's used to battles being short and swift, not this kind of crushing stalemate. Except at the Wall, but that's a different kind of fight all together.
Her keen eyes see a few human vultures profitting from the dead, and with a whisper and a gesture her Archer escort peals off, sending arrows into the vultures, killing some, scattering others.
Her other escorts remain vigilant, and she remains deep in thought. By the time she is back in the camp, her war boots are covered in mud and other unmentionables from her lack of concentration on movement across the battlefield.
Unnoticed, an Eta cleans her shoes quickly, making sure she does not track anything into the camp. So completely is he ignored, that none of her escort even notice him sneaking looks up her kimono in a vain attempt to see something that could get him killed.
Then she notices Tomatsu-sama's personal banner, and all reflection vanishes, replaced by a calm serenity, secure in her knowledge that her Champion was here, and that now all would be right with the world. She dismisses her escort without a word, sending them back to the resting Lioness Legion, letting them prepare for the next strike.
She doesn't bother with her armor, not in the middle of the camp, and not with her considerable and varied skills, but she does strap on her daisho around her kimono, which hangs well with it on, having been designed with that in mind. The upper portion of the kimono tightens almost imperceptibly, again challenging the limits of the acceptable, while the bottom continues to flow freely.
She nods to the other members of Tomatsu's personal retainers and enters with silence any servant would admire. She simply slides into the room to the rear and right of Tomatsu, allowing her complete freedom of movement to protect her lord.
She nods briefly to the other samurai in his presence, and will bow deeply to any who acknowledge her, but makes no sound unless spoken to until Tomatsu wishes to include her.
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Post by Akodo Tsanuri on Sept 1, 2011 4:21:38 GMT -5
Kira
Kira was sitting by the fire. He watched Tsuruchi carefully while he was talking. ‘Seems he is telling the truth.’ He was glad the fire light was dim and unstable. Maybe Tsuruchi-san wouldn’t see how red his face became. He knew something was wrong. Coming to the center of enemy’s camp, this man cheerful attitude. And the man himself. He heard about him. What was it… Skillful magistrate, good tactician, pledged loyalty to Toturi-dono… just great. And where was still something more. No, don’t remember. He was angry at himself. If he had paid more attention to what was happening in the Empire… To late for it now. Now he need to find a way to maintain his face. He eyed to the people surrounding them. That won’t be easy, especially with his men. They will have another thing to laugh about during patrols. But that should be all. And it won’t spoil anything between them. Everybody has his stories. They know each other too good. Convincing the others will be enough. But how… Maybe if he do the same…
He looked sharply at Tsuruchi. He made his face look serious Are you sure it’s not needed, Tsuruchi-san? This men doesn’t look convinced. A grin was lurking under the mask of seriousness. He just hoped the man on the other side of the fire will play along.
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
Lion Clan Champion?Samurai?Tactician?Loyal?Paragon of Sincerity?Defender of the Empire
Posts: 1,042
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Sept 1, 2011 7:22:51 GMT -5
He stood and made a motion to his servants, who brought forth a silk screen, depicting the argument between Akodo and Hantei over the Tao and he walked behind it. From the movements of his shadow he can be seen to be removing his armor with careful precision.
Well let me think Utaku-san. I have killed Crane before, perhaps not in as great numbers as my ancestors would like. In fact I did bring us closer to that clan than any of my ancestors did before, except Akodo himself.
I've also killed Daidoji before, in battle of course, I've defeated many more at the tables of strategy but thats another matter. I've also killed samurai with limps before, maybe one or two Crane, but I can't say I've ever faced a Daidoji with a limp in battle, so I think your father is safe.
He returned now, wearing a simple black and gold kimono, not his usual attire. He still had his mismatched daisho at his waist. He stopped when he saw Yoshino had entered the room without him knowing and sat beside him. How could I not notice that, he thought too many hours in the saddle and a rather beautiful woman before you in your tent will do that to you I guess, thankfully it wasn't someone who wanted me dead. I guess thats how the Scorpion clan built its reputation.
He made a bow towards Yoshino, Greetings Matsu-san. It pleases me to no end to find you alive, would you please join us in conversation. Would you two ladies care for some food? My cook can prepare any thing in the Empire, would would you ladies care for?
He motioned sharply and a servant appeared prepared to take orders and he gestured towards Mai first, as she is a guest from another clan.
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Shiba Kazuma
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan Champion?Samurai?Shiba's Soul?Unique?Enlightened
Posts: 369
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Post by Shiba Kazuma on Sept 1, 2011 7:42:29 GMT -5
Kazuma looked at Tomatsu with a slightly puzzled look.
Another Phoenix? Have you heard why they may be here or where in the camp they may be?
Kazuma looked slightly more confused as he thought about this.
Another Phoenix clan member? This civil war is starting to tear apart clans as well as Rokugan.
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
Lion Clan Champion?Samurai?Tactician?Loyal?Paragon of Sincerity?Defender of the Empire
Posts: 1,042
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Sept 1, 2011 9:51:31 GMT -5
It can wait till after a meal, can't it Shiba-san? Please join us for dinner. Your ride must not have been pleasant. He gestured towards the table. Hopefully you ladies will indulge two friends in catching up a little during dinner. We can share with you much of the events of the world as of late.
He turned again to Kazuma. I realize that this might be the first time we don't have to excuse ourselves for talking military topics in polite company. They might even enjoy it. He smiled.
He then turned to receive the Kitsu Daimyo. Kitsu-san, we were just sitting down for a nice dinner, would you care to join us? Unless it is urgent, I believe your report can wait, can it not?
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Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
OOC Cleanup Crew
Samurai? Battle Maiden? Cavalry? Paragon of Courage? Friend of the Lion
Posts: 1,054
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Sept 1, 2011 10:39:38 GMT -5
The sound of a single horse returning into the thick of the encampment could be heard, along with the startled cries of a few unwary men who happened to be along the path. The minor grumbles and startled cries started to build as the hoof beats approached the command tent.
Even a few of the guards nearby, soldiers naturally, but currently performing a rotation as protection for those in the lion's presence gave a grumble. After a time, and much hushed speaking the voices started to become audible to those even inside. "Do not be so rude! Just because she is a Scorpion on an Utaku steed, do not presume she stole it!"
Haruka's calm and collected voice poured in, "Please.. if I may. My cavalry regiment has returned from the battle. I need to speak briefly with your lord Akodo Tomatsu-sama."
The guards could be heard growling and grumbling again, until things went quiet suddenly. Haruka quietly pushed her way inside, still wearing her head wrap that had been gifted to her as she sighed deeply and shook her head. However she could not have anticipated the sight before her. There she was standing in full, but thankfully clean and relatively pristine, riding armor colored in red and gold. And then there was the Lion clan champion looking most elegant in his black and gold kimono.
She could not hide herself from view for all the slight rumbling she'd caused but she did not seem to dare to speak first. Only bowing at the sight of Tomatsu and hoping she hadn't interrupted. As clearly he had company...
((OOC: I've been requested by his Almighty lordness Tomatsu, to join in. Sorry for the clusterf- <3))
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Kitsu Natsuki
Lion Clan
Lion Clan * Daimyo * Shugenja * Sodan-senzo * Loyal * Ambassador to the Dragon
Posts: 162
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Post by Kitsu Natsuki on Sept 1, 2011 10:50:26 GMT -5
"I would be honoured, Akodo-sama."
Just then, the sound of voices began drifting in from outside. A short time later, a woman dressed in armour and bearing the mon of the Scorpion entered the tent.
She looks vaguely familiar, but I cannot tell who she is as long as that cloth is covering her features. Funny, she seems to stand in the same way as that Battle Maiden there. A Unicorn-trained Scorpion?
(OOC: Well well, looks like the party's getting livelier ;D )
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