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 10:56:36 GMT -5
He stopped mid conversation when he saw her. He could not hide the massive smile and stood from the table. He parted the growing crowd of both guests and staff trying to accommodate the guests and stood before her. He bowed, deeply before his old friend. Haruka-san. I'm so glad you could make it. I had intended for you to enjoy a quiet conversation with me and a nice Utaku woman I just had the pleasure of meeting, but a party seems to be brewing here. Perhaps if you can join us, we might get the chance to speak to her during dinner? Perhaps you can tell her of all my glorious deeds? He added in a quiet tone that only they could hear with a wink of his eye and a wry smile on his lips.
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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 11:15:47 GMT -5
"But of course, Tomatsu-sama. I would be honored to join you all for the evening."
She bowed just as deeply to him, and also bowed to the rest of the room as her eyes quietly scanned those present. She was particularly curious now of another Utaku in the room as she started plotting the conversations in the back of her mind.
"I am Bayushi Haruka, I hope my presence does not disturb anyone here tonight."
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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 Sept 1, 2011 12:36:31 GMT -5
Mai was quickly finding herself vastly outclassed in the present company. Akodo-domo's demeanor was kind enough, but these did not seem like samurai who would suffer fools gladly. Curiously, she wondered if battle plans would be discussed, especially the cavalry strategy in lieu of her recent discovery.
She became keenly aware of the stinging throb in her arm, ignored for too long in the quiet evening. That had been quite the lucky shot by a plucky Crane infantryman, though it did not stop the spear from running him through. I shouldn't be here...my place is on the battlefield...at least there, I know exactly who I am and what I'm doing, she found herself thinking. Courtesy dictated that she should have reported to her own leaders among the Unicorn for them to pass on to such honored leadership, but the Kahn was still gathering forces in the Unicorn lands, and Daimyo Kazumi was who knew where, following her own path in defiance of the clan.
Here in the fields of Toshi Ranbo, she had no champion to defer responsibility to. There was only herself, and those who followed her leadership without question. In absence of anyone else, she owed it to them to make her reports and be aware of the workings of the battlefield. The words of her sensei came flooding into her: Never back down from a challenge, and never apologize for doing what is necessary to preserve lives and achieve victory.
She pushed the pain and inadequacy from her mind. She greeted the guests with the courtesy that they were owed, asked the cook for something simple and filling, and put on her best Utaku swagger.
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Akodo Keisuke
Lion Clan Mod
Lion Clan Regent ?Samurai ?Daimyo ?First Among Generals ?Tactician ?Commander ?Loyal
Posts: 704
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Post by Akodo Keisuke on Sept 1, 2011 17:52:52 GMT -5
Keisuke paused before entering the command tent, he bowed at the entrance much the same way a student would before entering a dojo letting the moment and the wash over him.
Then he strode in and made his way directly towards the two champions, bowing formally to the Phoenix, Lord Shiba Kazuma-sama, Then turning Tomatsu and bowing in a formal manner conveyed an air of military precision. Lord Tomatsu-Sama Keisuke then stepped away leaving the champions to their respective conversation.
Making his way through the crowd, he greeted and spoke with several of the commanders, gathering news and reports of the days battle. A blur of Unicorn purple passed through the corner of his eye drawing his attention. Seeing the battle madain Keisuke, made his way over to her, Utaku-san, you look as if you are Contemplating the Void, if I may have a word with you. I have been leading the Lion cavalry against the Crane forces and now that we have two Shiotome, I wish to hear your thoughts on the coming battles.
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Post by kentaro on Sept 1, 2011 18:03:22 GMT -5
Kentaro was grateful the Lion was willing to back away from this potential debacle. He seemed willing to treat it all as a joke. That was fine by Kentaro; he had no desire to spill blood over a silly misunderstanding.
"Lion-san, I am certain your camp full of fearsome Wardens could handle my motley band of skirmishers, armed or no."
"If the offer still stands, we would be most appreciative of any healing. Please accept the sake as a gift for your troops, and your lord."
Kentaro bowed politely, eager to put the faux pas behind them both. Kentaro felt he was as much to blame as the Lion; best not to jest with one so young and eager to prove their honor.
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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 20:33:57 GMT -5
He gestured towards the table and returned to his seat. He had a servant go and bow before his Akodo Daimyo.
Akodo-dono, our lord would ask that you discuss the battle conditions with him when you have a moment. He has not been properly briefed yet. Please bring all your advisers, he requests some time before dinner is served.
Tomatsu turned to Shiba Kazuma. So my friend, I have asked that my generals give us the situation of the battle. How do these times find you old friend? I haven't seen you since your swearing in.
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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 Sept 1, 2011 21:46:48 GMT -5
Taiyo listened quietly while Hirotomo made his offer to care for the Phoenix hostage. The Monkey army was smaller than his own legion, much less the remaining Lion force that was assembled here today. Even that was less than a 5th of the entire Lion army. Surely for the Monkey to spare a few guards to keep the samurai-ko safe would be a much larger burden than leaving her in Lion care. However, this was the opening he had plotted for in order to maneuver the Phoenix into the desired position.
Hirotomo-sama, you are as wise as you are skilled with a blade, if the accounts of the Scorpion hold true. Perhaps it would be best if Kaida-san remain in your custody, although I would require her to pledge not to attempt escape, and to obey all of your directives. Otherwise, she would have to stay here, confined…
Just then one of the Lion guards returned. Bowing, he entered the tent and quickly approached Taiyo, bending to his ear to deliver whispered news. A look of anger briefly passed Taiyo’s face, followed by the same mask of command he wore when commanding his troops. The guard bowed again and hurriedly exited the tent. Taiyo sat still as stone for a moment, immobile and in deep thought. He turned to the Phoenix and considered her before proceeding.
Kaida-san, it appears you may yet have an opportunity to serve your clan today. Toku-sama, I must apologize. I cannot turn this hostage over to your custody just yet. Unfortunately, your meal will be delayed. The Phoenix Champion, Kazuma-sama has just arrived, and I have been summoned to report to my own champion, Tomatsu-dono. Please, come with me, and make haste.
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Post by Isawa Kaida on Sept 1, 2011 22:10:04 GMT -5
Kaida's eyes widened in surprise, her agreement to Taiyo's demands dying in her throat.
"Hai, Akodo-sama." She rose quickly, following Taiyo to where the champions were meeting.
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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 Sept 1, 2011 23:33:02 GMT -5
"I am happy to lend my knowledge, Keiutske-dono, including what I've learned on the battlefield today. Several traditional tactics cannot succeed while the water level is so high, unfortunately. Most horses risk significant injury on such ground, and even the most surefooted Utaku steeds would be slowed to the point of vulnerability. I know of a few unorthodox maneuvers that may yet turn things in our favor..."
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Post by Akodo Tsanuri on Sept 2, 2011 2:50:16 GMT -5
Kira
’Pretty good. Seems like Mantis want to play along. Gotta laugh off this whole talk.’ Kira faked he couldn’t remain serious and burst out laughing hearing Tsuruchi-san words. It will make it look like it was all planned. Tsuruchi-san looked a little taken aback with Kira’s behavior but he understood soon and also smiled. Boy quickly stopped laughing just in case. It won’t be good if Tsuruchi-san felt offended. Thank you Tsuruchi-san, it’s a generous gesture but I can’t accept it. Especially as there won’t be many possibilities to replenish supplies. Kira refused the gift twice, as the etiquette demands, and accepted it after the third time. He bowed deeply thanking for the gift in his lady’s name. He call one of his man. Take it to Homura-dono tent. Kira gave him all accept of one bottle. My proposition is still valid Tsuruchi-san. He asked the nearest standing Lions. Where are shugenja? There are wounded here. Take them to the infirmary. Lions quickly moved to escort the most wounded.
When they’re gone Kira addressed Tsuruchi-san again. They should be fine. Our shugenja are very skilled in healing wounds. As soon as they cope with the most wounded they will come to check the rest of your troops. In the mean time please enjoy the meal. It's plain but tastes pretty good.
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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 2, 2011 9:07:38 GMT -5
Kazuma's expression went from confusion to sadness.
It seems that this schism has torn apart more then just rokugan. To be honest the time since my becoming Phoenix clan champion has been filled with elation and turmoil. We defeated the Ronin at Moutain Watch Keep, but then we turned those armies that we raised to fight the Ronin on each other. I am here to simply observe the battle and, if you will hear me, ask that you give your enemies mercy.
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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 Sept 2, 2011 15:01:38 GMT -5
(OOC: Waiting for Hirotomo-sama to catch up before I drag him unwittingly before such an esteemed gathering!)
EDIT: Just read in another post that Hirotomo may be away from the boards through the weekend. I don't want to hold everyone else up that long. I'll get something up to continue my portion of the thread shortly.
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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 Sept 2, 2011 23:01:17 GMT -5
(OOC: Sorry, Moving no oni is tasking me.)
Hirotomo's eyes perked when he heard of the Phoenix Champion's presence at the camp. He nodded to the Lion, then followed. He'd like to meet the man in person. He'd only met the Scorpion Champion personally, he was curious how they may differ. He'd corresponded with the Lion Champion, though they had never met. It would likely be men greeting a little brother. Sometimes the Kuge of the Great Clans tasked him. He was Kuge as well, though his clan's status left him mostly ignored. He followed, but remained mostly silent.
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Akodo Keisuke
Lion Clan Mod
Lion Clan Regent ?Samurai ?Daimyo ?First Among Generals ?Tactician ?Commander ?Loyal
Posts: 704
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Post by Akodo Keisuke on Sept 3, 2011 0:51:53 GMT -5
Keisuke, excused himself politely from Utaku Mai, My apologies Utaku-san, I must report Lord Tomatsu-sama.
With that he mad his way through the crowd to the place where the Champions were conversing. Bowing before them, Lord Shiba-sama, Lord Tomatsu-Sama,
Taking a commanding stance, Keisuke straightened and began Lords the battle is proceeding at the pace we expected.
The preemptive attack, gained exactly the reaction we anticipated, while we caught a number of the Hantei forces outside the castle walls, a larger number have retreated back inside Toshi Ranbo. The attack has allowed us to set up our siege lines and prepare for a protracted battle. This has drawn out the Crane light forces and harriers allowing the Wardens to engage them.
Gesturing to the surrounding camp, Our careful planning has payed off as well, so far the Crane have been unsuccessful in disrupting our supply lines.
I have ordered patrols to the East side of Toshi Ranbo to report on enemy movements; but most importantly they are there to escort any refugees that wish to leave the city and make thier way to Kyuden Otomo. These units, are under strict commands to not attack anyone leaving the city no matter who they are. If Crane or Hantei forces wish to retreat by this road then so be it, our goal is to hold the capital till Emperor Toturi arrives.
Pausing for less than a heart beat, Keisuke closes his eyes calling in his mind a god's eye view of the battle filed which he could see with crystal clarity. Cavalry units under the command of Kakita Alesha, Shireikan of the Kakita Forces have sighted on the field whilst I have yet to engage him personally; I will be leading my forces in a movement to outflank the Crane, so he will not go unchallenged for much longer.
Allowing himself to relax and with a wolfish smile, As you know my lord, we have been joined by the two Shiotome and thier respective forces, one the battle maiden Utaku Mai-dono, and the recently married Bayushi Haruka-sama. Their combined aid will be invaluable during the approaching engagements with the Crane cavalry. Lady Bayushi Haruka-sama tells me her Champion Bayushi Senshi has joined the Crab forces that are laying siege to Lonely Shore City.
Tsuruchi Kentaro, leading a large force of Mantis Warriors have already victoriously engaged the those forces loyal to Hantei.
I even have reports that the Monkey Clan champion has lead his army to the field of battle. The Monkey are daring to do what many of the great clans are not willing to do. Once Toku Hirotomo, arrives I will see to it that his forces are armed and equipped to be treated as equals and not merely hired Ronin. Such as Lord Toturi the first raised up the Ronin Toku, I say this day we raise up Toku Hirotomo-san.
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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 Sept 3, 2011 14:08:33 GMT -5
Tent flaps parted with a flourish as the small procession entered the Lion Champion’s tent. The gathering crowd of visitors and servants parted as naturally as water flows past a boulder lodged in the midst of a slow moving stream. Taiyo marched at the head of the formation, his expression stern and filled with purpose. Leading his charges to the gathered champions and dignitaries, they came to a halt several paces behind the Akodo Daimyo. As Keisuke-sama concluded his report, Taiyo stepped forward, first making eye contact with his Daimyo and giving him a quick bow.
Dropping to one knee and bowing before his champion My Lord, I received your summons and am reporting as ordered. May I present to you and your honored company our ally, the Monkey Clan Champion Toku Hirotomo-sama. We had just sat down for our evening meal and were about to conclude negotiations for transferring this hostage, with the wave of his left hand Taiyo indicated the diminutive priestess behind him Isawa Kaida-san into Monkey Clan custody when word came of Kazuma-sama’s arrival. Kaida-san was captured earlier today by a Lion patrol while on her way to give aid to our adversaries in Toshi Ranbo, and Hirotomo-sama was kind enough to escort her to the encampment. However, with the Monkey’s prestigious reputation as guardians of justice, I had thought it proper for them to retain custody and ensure her honorable treatment while in captivity.
Dropping to both knees and bowing so low that his forehead touched the floor I apologize for the difficulty that has been caused by taking a member of the Phoenix Clan hostage, and straining the good relations we have had with Kazuma-sama’s people in the past. I humbly ask permission to take my own life, and if granted, that Hirotomo-sama be allowed to act as my second.
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