[rp] The Serpent in the Shell

[Shoju]

This Rp is intended to take place at the same time as the later pages of Raising the Forgotten Clan This is the efforts of the Snake Clan to purchase / rent ships and crew to move the rest of the Snake Clan via Ship. This thread is designed for

• Any tortoise who wishes to participate
  
• Kenpachi is welcome if he would find a reason to be here
  
• Anyone else who would find themselves with just cause to be in Kyuden Kasuga. If you fall into this group, please PM me first.
  

It had been a tiring trek from Crab lands to Kyuden Kasuga. The Kabuki troupe had been delivered to Monkey Lands, and then the Snake Bushi had made their way here. They wore rather nondescript armor in various shades of brown and black, with a small Snake Mon on the left Breast of the Chest.

As they entered the Tortoise Lands, they had decided it best to try and blend into the city as best they could. Any force, even as small as this group of men camped together outside the city would draw more suspicion.

Tamihei Natsuno was leading this expedition. He had been a Ronin for a long time, and threw his lot in with the Snake Clan after Tamihei Shoju left the Spider. He had heard of the enigmatic leader of the Snake was a man whom was both revered and reviled. He felt if anyone would give Natsuno a chance, it would be him. He was right.

Natusno had placed 3 younger samurai in charge of securing lodging for the lot of them in town, put several others in charge of securing supplies that they would need for the voyage, and put himself and an 'honor guard' to attempt to appeal to the Tortoise Clan first before resorting to smugglers.

Natsuno and his honor guard arrived at court in Kasuga, relinquished their katana, and awaited an audience with Kasuga.

[Kasuga Shinobu]

The court was ever small, and few samurai seemed to be present. It was, of course, hard to tell. Much like a ronin, a Tortoise usually could be mistaken for a heimin without close inspection, and the visiting samurai would likely miss a few Tortoise because of this. Still, when the group reaches the waiting room, they are approached by an old man that has a Tortoise mon on his sleeve. Still, even with that, it takes a few glances for him to appear anything other than a peasant servant.

"Ohaiyo, samurai-sama's. It is a first for the Tamihei family to visit the humble home of the Kasuga... at least, it is in such a way as the Tamihei. Regardless, I realize your business is not with such a humble man as myself. You have come another purpose, hai?"

The man gave a smile, though he had few teeth in his mouth anymore. He was really quite old indeed....

[Shoju]

Natsuno bowed to the old man. "Yes Kasuga-san, we have come with another purpose." Natsuno waved and arm and 2 of the men came forth with a strongbox and placed it next to Natusno, bowed, and moved back.

"We are a young clan Kasuga-san. Our Champion Shoju-dono invoking his right of championship only a little more than a month ago. He has already rallied many to his cause and set about on a new purpose for the Snake. Unfortunately, it could be said that the Snake come from an unsavory background, one which we are trying to shed, which brings me here."

Natsuno cleared his throat and began again. "We are former members of the Spider, followers of Daigotsu, who are looking to dissassociate ourselves with the Spider. Daigotsu gave leave to Shoju-dono to create his new clan, and to take his rightful place in the Empire. He even gave us leave to use a Spider holding as our staging grounds for our move from the Shadowlands."

Natsuno thought of the men who had been lost to the battle with the Gaijin's army. "Apparently, not all of the Spider were as understanding, and we have been chased from our home prematurely. Unfortunately, not all of us were able to escape through the wall, and almost our entire clan now makes a stand near the isles of Candas." Natsuno looked deep into the old man's eyes. "And that is what brings me here.

"The Snake Clan wish to make a plea for aid from the Tortoise Clan. We ask for 3 sengokobune with crew to aid us in sailing to the isles of Candas, and bringing our clansman into the Empire." Natsuno paused for effect, and then eyed the strongbox at his feet. "We are willing to pay. This, and more to save our people."

[Kasuga Shinobu]

The old man's brow furrowed a moment. He gave a low bow, forehead pressing to the tatami floor. "Sumimasen, the tale is one that touches me truly, but I am not the one who would be able to accommodate you. I fear you will have to retell the tale once again."

"That will not be necessary, Kenji-san." A samurai walked out from a doorway slowly, wearing a heavy black kimono. A slow bow was given before the samurai gave a soft cough. "Sumimasen, Natsuo-sama. You have come to me when I am still ill. The rains recently have left me this way, but surely the heavens will see to my recovery now that you have graced me with your presence."

As the samurai straightened, their eyes went to each samurai slowly before returning to Natsuro. "My name is Kasuga Shinobu, Hatamoto of the Tortoise. I fear our Champion is out at the moment, but I can speak in his stead with full authority." There was a pause, a small cough.

"You realize, Natsuro-sama, that while the Tortoise have a reputation earned from many years of doing the Emperor's bidding, no matter the cost to our honor, that we have never went so low as to deal with the Spider, Daigotsu, or any Lost samurai." A head tilt, of curiosity. "
"I was not aware that it was Daigotsu that deemed whether a clan was made or not, nor have I heard word that the Snake have been blessed by the Son of Heaven as legitimate. I am well informed in many things, but I have heard little that would change the stance of my clan, meek and unimportant as we are, on the matter of the tainted."

[Shoju]

Natsuno was prepared for the questioning nature. Who wouldn't question such claims? Let me put your fears at ease Kasuga-sama. The Snake Clan was not formed by, nor blessed by the lord of the Shadowlands. I'm sure you are a student of history, and will remember that the Snake Clan was wiped from the face of the empire by the phoenix during the five nights of shame. Natsuno's face contorted in an irritable gesture as he finished the sentence. My Champion, is of Snake Clan blood, and can trace his lineage back to Isawa Chuda as a Grandfather, generations ago. You see, the Phoenix only wiped clean the face of the Dragon's Heart Plain, and my champion's ancestor had already been married off into the Scorpion Clan by then. And, if you know your history, you will know that there was never an official stance taken to remove the Snake Clan as a Minor Clan, a loophole to be sure, but one that has allowed my Champion some leeway.

Natsuno's tone became more light hearted. As for our association with the Lost, There was a group of Lost who wished for legitimization. Daigotsu is many things, but Junzo or Yori he is not. When the ambassadors were ordered to death, and we were driven from the capital, My champion used the weakened state of the Lost to barter for his freedom. His freedom was granted, and he was allowed to take those willing to follow him peacefully. Natsuno smiled, and went on As for why he would need to barter for his freedom, well.... That is a tale that I will leave for him to tell you in person.

Natsuno turned and walked a few steps towards his honor guard, and then turned back around We, the Snake Clan have renounced our ties to the Spider, We have even left the corrupted name of the Chuda behind with those who remain loyal to Daigotsu. We have taken the name Tamihei, in honor of the last Snake Champion, who sacrificed all in a hope to save his clan, even though the cost was dire. We know we have much to atone for, much amends to make, and many people to show our honor to be true. We know that there are those who will look upon the tainted amongst us and show disdain for them. But, I assure you, they are vigilant in their efforts to stem the spread of their taint. Once this generation of Snake pass on, the taint in our ranks will begin to thin into non existence, similar to a great snake molting a damaged skin. the damaged skin is slowly shed, and replaced with healthy skin. So too will the Snake. It will sadly take time.

[Kasuga Shinobu]

Shinobu had watched Natsuno all through his speech. It was quite the speech too, answers her own questions, as well as those not asked. She sipped softly at some tea she had laid out, which seemed to help her cough. Finally, he realized Natsuro had finished, and he spoke softly.

"Perhaps you would do well to realize that trust will come in time as well, Natsuro-sama. What you say is true; there was never an official edict declaring for the demist of the Chuda. However, the Chuda have since been condemned, albeit many that have taken the name without having the bloodline of the original clan. At the same time, the tainted have never been given leeway, excepting perhaps the case of the Crab Damned legions."

She paused, having a small coughing fit. He covered his mouth with a sleeve, paling visibly. She took a few sips of tea before she continued. "I recognize noble intentions however... even if I am fully within my rights to be skeptical. I will make you an offer that would benefit you, and yet keep my own hand hidden, so to speak."

She reached into a nearby drawer, ruffling through some rolled up pieces of paper. Finally he pulled one out, handing it to you after he unrolled it. "This is a contract for passage on the ship of a known pirate that makes port north of here along the bay's coast. I am owed that favor, and that sheet will gain passage for as many men and supplies as you need, as will fit onto a sizable vessel."

A very slight smile appeared on his lips. "I realize in many ways my own offer is as unpure an option as if you had used the methods of the Spider. However... you will find your own opportunities through this, if you choose to take it. No one would question the bravery of a samurai that sunk a pirate ship."

[Shoju]

Natsuno bowed to the tortoise. Arigato, Kasuga-sama. My Champion knew it was a long shot, but will be pleased to see us arriving with aid. I am sure once we are safe within the confines of the Empire, he will make his way to personally offer the gratitude you so rightly deserve.

Natsuno bowed deep May the blessing of Tengoku be upon you Kasuga-sama. Natsuno bowed again, turned and departed with the paper in hand. The honor guard falling in behind him, and they left. Behind them, in the room, was the strongbox.

Natsuno met up with the other Snake in the inn where they had secured rooms. He Natsuno looked across at Unong. The Tortoise are carefully sidestepping direct help. They have given us information about a known pirate who makes way from a cove north of here, and have presented us with a favor to get his aid.

Unong nodded, Some help is better than no help. We have secured supplies. In the morning, we will secure travel to this cove, and present ourselves. For now, we rest, tend to the few who still have wounds from the brush with Gaijin, and prepare to contact Shoju-dono.[/color]

After a few hours of sake, and food, the men began retiring to their chambers. Inside Unong's chamber, he took out the small bowl, and the pouch of powder. He poured a small amount of powder into the bowl, turned and sat down at the table, and began to pen a letter.


Shoju-dono,

We have reached the lands of the tortoise, and have secured the favor of a crew who we will meet tomorrow in preparation of our rendezvous with you.

Along the way, the Gaijin Chuda and a small army of Spider attacked our caravan. When I confronted him about the arrangements with the Lord of the Spider, he scoffed, and mentioned he would remove his Lord himself if he stood in his way. I fear that the Gaijin has lost his allegiances, and possibly his mind, though he was mortally wounded in the confrontation with Kenpachi.

I am unsure if what he says is true, or if the Spider have turned against us. In any event, please know that there are Spider who wish to destroy us.

Respectfully,
Unong,


When Unong was done with the letter, he folded it in half and placed it in the bowl, on top of the powder. He lit a match from the Candle on the desk, and put it to the powder. The flame was mesmerizing, and surprising all at once. The letter disintegrated, and the flame extinguished himself. Unong was confident that the letter had reached his lord.

[Shoju]

After a long night's sleep, the Snake clan delegates were up, and ready to move towards the pirates safe haven. They had secured several horses, but not enough for everyone, so they loaded the horses with the provisions, and moved as a unit.

As they found the port of the Ship, The Unit of Snake stopped. Unong Spoke up. "It is best if I enter from here on my own, at least until I have conferred with the Pirate."

The rest of the Unit of Snake nodded in agreement. They could see the logic, in Unong's proposal.

Unong turned and began making his way into the port, unsure if this was the answer to saving his clan, or if this was the answer to the last mystery in life.

{ooc}
I wasn't sure if you wanted to RP the part of the pirate, so I will leave it open incase you want to. if not, I will wrap it all up in the next post
{ooc}

[Kasuga Shinobu]

(( It's your scenario dear, I'm willing to play out whatever~ ))

The "port" that Shinobu had directed the Snake too was really just a small cove along the northern branch of the Bay. No one lived out here, so it was a perfect spot for a kobune to anchor down. As Unong made his way through some brush, he spotted the Kobune, unmarked, no name or flag visible. Then men on the deck likewise had no markings. As Unong approached, one of the men on the deck spotted him and ran off.

A moment later, a man made his way down onto the shore, making his way over toward the Snake. He had a sword on his obi, but he left it alone as he made his way close, wary. He wore a kimono that looked tattered along the edges, and he walked barefoot. As he got close he spoke up, voice gruff. "We're not lookin' t' sell here, we're just mendin' the sails. If y' want to buy somethin' from our cargo samurai-sama, best keep on to Dragon Guard City."

[Shoju]

Unong smiled to the man and bowed. I'm not here to purchase your wares. I'm here to request you honor a favor owed to Kasuga Shinobu-san. Unong withdrew the paper from his obi and held it outstretched toward the man. I need you, and your crew to help me rescue my clan. And of course, due to the nature of my request, I'm sure the payment I offer should please you.

[Kasuga Shinobu]

The man paled a little at the mention of the Kasuga, but licked his lips as he looked at the paper and listened to the mention of payment. He looked at Unong with a very wary look now, and when he spoke, it was hesitantly, with none of its former gruffness. "'Ere now, that paper looks authentic and all... it was meant to be fer the Kasuga only though, ain't no one said nothin' 'bout gettin' mixed up in clan business."

His eyes narrowed as he looked Unong over a moment. He spotted the mon and frowned. "I ain't the most learned man in the Empire samurai-sama, but... last I heard of anyone with that mon it t'weren't somethin' even a man like me likes on his ship." He paused. "... What sorta payment we talkin'?"

[Shoju]

Unong smiled, and whistled. As he did, the other Snake Clan samurai emerged from behind him. They were an impressive lot, but they made no attempt to be intimidating. At the head of their procession, was 4 samurai, in pairs, holding strongboxes. The walked forward and set them down next to Unong. I promise you that the mon you see on me has nothing to do with the stories you have heard. As far as payment, Unong knelt down, and lifted the locks simultaneously, and stood up, opening the lids of the boxes as he did.

Inside the strongboxes was Gold, Silver, and a few gems. But mainly, it was precious metals.

I believe our payment could suit you. Unong eyed the man. I'm sure your arrangement with the Kasuga was originally for the Kasuga, but at present Kasuga-san is found to be ill, and I promise this trip is not for the faint of heart. We will be sailing to the shadowlands, just off the coast, to the isles of Candas, where we will be rescuing my clansmen, and bringing them to port. depending on how many you can fit on your ship, it may take several trips, and we might need to sail to a port nearer the fighting to ensure speed.

[Kasuga Shinobu]

The man looked even more wary as the other Snake samurai emerged, even though they made no attempt to be intimidating. His eyes lit up however as he saw what was in the chest, and it was almost impossible not to see he was caught then. He licked his lips slowly.

"Mayhaps I could round up another ship 'er so... completely trustworthy individuals, of course." He gave what was likely supposed to be a reassuring smile, but just came across as anxious. "Dependin' how many you need transported, that is."

[Shoju]

Unong's face visibly tensed as he prepared. I would suspect we will need transportation for three thousand. Unong held his head high. I sadly do mean my clan, and the entirety of it. Based on the information that I have received while en route to this very place, the Spider are nipping at the heels of my clan, and if they dally too long on the Isles of Candas, I fear that they will be easily picked off.

[Kasuga Shinobu]

That captain's face turned deadly serious, though a hint of that nervousness still remained. "Bloody fortune's... thousands? Even with the two or three I could round up likely, that'd take... days." He frowned. "Are y' sure about all this? By the sounds of it, you should be talkin' to someone like the Mantis, or even go back t' the Tortoise."