Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
OOC Cleanup Crew
Samurai? Battle Maiden? Cavalry? Paragon of Courage? Friend of the Lion
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Sept 21, 2011 16:55:56 GMT -5
Haruka took her time. Tomatsu had only known her for a short time, but she couldn't help but be touched by his expression. "Please, Tomatsu-sama..." However, she knew there was little being like this was going to do for anyone.
She forced herself up as she eased out of his grasp. Haruka only pausing to allow Tomatsu to right himself and gather himself at last. She came striding over with a much more straightened expression. She would not shed another tear in the company of her former daimyo, she swore it. Taking a sharp breath she steeled her gate and approached, looking on the beast now flailing on Kasumi's arm.
"My apologies Kasumi-sama. I could not contain the sight, I hope you understand. I am with you now.." She seemed to latch onto her strength in a way, but there was no denying that one of the closest things to a Unicorn's heart was their family.
The Shiotome dispatched out to search the entire estate would find very little. Each building burned, leaving no survivors. The remains of the servants were layed out and covered only with thin blankets likely taken from their own homes. All of which were burned away rather hastily. There wasn't a single survivor and the few training Utaku steeds that belonged to Haruka's mother's dojo were off running around the fields. But they were unharmed, and only startled because of the flames.
Haruka only now maintained a slightly downtrodden gaze as she worked to force the grief back. She couldn't allow herself to succumb to this weakness. Or at least that's what she was damning herself for.
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Post by Utaku Kasumi on Sept 21, 2011 20:09:42 GMT -5
Nodded to Haruka and glanced at her. I share your pain, Haruka, as I've lost my father almost the same way, murdered by unknown person... I will try to do my best to find the one who's responsible for this horrible act. Especially under my own nose... Haruka, listen... do you have any suspictions about who might have done it? Only your house was attacked. Only your family... killed. Nothing else. They didn't even touch patrols around here. This must mean something. Kasumi looked at Haruka calmly, or at least she was trying to. Worst that she could do now was to show any feelings, to heat Haruka's emotions up once again. She had enough for a day: long travel here, horrible news... and she was pregnant to that. Looking at her Kasumi assumed she was about seven months pregnant, so it was better to keep an eye on her.
Kasumi never knew how it felt to be a mother, but she knew it was something precious. For now all she could do was to try to take a good care of Haruka's health - at this moment her physical health. Later she will have to find a way to console her for a loss. Or someone else will do that.
Haruka, you can't do much here. And it's not good for you nor your unborn child. You need a bath, food and a good rest. It was a long day for you and your companion. Think about your child too.
One of Shiotome returned to Kasumi to report to her. Not happy at all... She complained Send more patrols and double each one of them. Ask Shinjo to acompany those that will try to track them down. And inform me about the details. Yes, my lady. Woman bowed to her as deeply as her armor allowed her to.
She turned to Haruka again. Join me at my house. Be my guest with your friend, Akodo-sama. I will provide you with anything you might need. Anything. Kasumi accented her last word looking at Haruka and Tomatsu.
Kasumi's gaze would burn holes in Tomatsu's face. Like saying "Help me convince her or I am so gona torture you, that you'd beg to die"... or something like that.
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Akodo Tomatsu
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The Shining Lion
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Sept 21, 2011 20:37:03 GMT -5
He bowed his head, having been silent since his return. He held his kabuto in his hands rather than wearing it. He finally spoke, first clearing his throat.
Thank you Utaku-san. We will accept your hospitality. I do not doubt your warriors are strong and capable of solving this crime, but I must insist that I be allowed to guard Haruka-san until this situation has been resolved. My honor and her husband would not rest unless I did so. He griped his katana finally and nodded, his resolve having returned.
Utaku-san we will return to Shiro Utaku, please do not let us take up more of your time. We look forward to sharing a meal with you later. He bowed and placed his kabuto on his head, placing a hand on Haruka's shoulder and guiding her back to her horse and waited for her to mount.
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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 22, 2011 0:14:43 GMT -5
Even Tomatsu had seen her mount her horse without trouble. But as she gripped the reins now, again something unusual happened. Riku bowed his head to Haruka's gaze as their eyes met. Without a gesture, without a word, Riku bent his knees and lowered himself to ease Haruka's way onto his back.
When she wrapped the reins around her hand, Riku twisted his ears back and forced himself back onto his feet with minimal trouble. "Thank you Tomatsu.. and thank you Kasumi-sama. I owe you both far too much for this kindness." She gave a nod, much as Riku would actually turn and shake his head to Kasumi as well.
She would ride along with Tomatsu, only of course quietly bringing up one point just as they were to arrive back in Shiro Utaku. Breaking the uneasy ride back. It was clear she was only holding herself up for appearances, but there was little else she could do for now. "I will need to write to Senshi, but I'm not sure what he might do because of it. I know how difficult the Scorpion politics have been in court. And last we spoke, you gave him a Lion dispatch as his personal guard.." Her gaze lowered once again as they arrived, her thoughts wandering to her husband as she tried to pull herself away from the pain of this moment. She knew all was not lost, but at the same time her mind wandered through those who might call her an enemy. Unfortunately a few came to mind, and no one completely more guilty than the rest. She could never guess the ire that others could bear on her, nor did she wish to know even so.
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Post by Utaku Kasumi on Sept 22, 2011 2:27:14 GMT -5
Kasumi after giving orders left Shiotome in the care of one of her Chui.
You can send a letter to your danna-sama. But I think you should really think what to write, otherwise he might come to rescue you from my house... Kasumi smiled gently to Haruka. She had her kabuto on her knees so her hair were all around her and horse's back, bouncing with her every move.
They have arrived to Kasumi's house after a few minutes of riding. It was lively as ever. Everyone was running here and there, yellings could be heard from the direction where stables were. In the center of it all there was a redhaired man standing, acting like the keeper of slaves. He just needed a whip to fit that image perfectly... When he spotted Kasumi and her guests he bowed deeply. Welcome back, Kasumi-dono. Utaku Haru... Forgive me, Bayushi Haruka-sama, it's good to see you again. He bowed to women once again. Akodo-dono. He bowed to him, greeting him as the last one, even if of the greatest status here. Kael waved at two boys of age maybe seven. We will prepare baths. Please, let us take your horses to the stable. Boys came to Haruka's and Tomatsu's horses when Kael reached for Kelero's bridle. He had to take his hand back really fast, when she tried to bite his fingers. Stop it, Kelero. I told you to bite him only if he gives you no water. Kasumi patted her neck and got off of her when Kael grabbed bridle. Please, Haruka, Akodo-sama, follow me.
She invited them to her house.
It wasn't big from the outside. Rather normal sized. It's true that house was looking better compared to other houses that they were passing by before, but not that much. Only when they entered they could feel like stepping into a different world. Every free space was taken by items that weren't from Rokugan origins. Near the door, both sides, there were standing two weird and golden armors, holding halberds. There were gobelin tapestries on the walls, Gaijin furniture like tables with vases and other pottery on top of them. It was a mix of typical house that can be found in Rokugan... and something hard to describe even when seen. Welcome to my house. Kasumi stopped in the hallway and said that with a smile. Enjoy the tradition of my lineage, tradition of collecting goods from the outside.
After saying that she lead them to the main room. Please, have a sit till your bath is ready. After that my servants will prepare a meal for you. Would you like something to drink while you wait? Also this room was filled with mysterious items. Furs of animals on the floor, paintings on the walls, furniture etc. And a lot of books and scrools, pilled on the shelfs. Everything here was worth a fortune.
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Sept 22, 2011 9:52:02 GMT -5
He nodded, not having spoke since he said his last words to Haruka before they left. The ride had again been hard and his back was now in serious pain. He slumped into a gaijin chair, seeming to already know exactly how it works.
He took off his kabuto and placed it on the ground near his feet. He then took off his katana, a sign that he believed his life was in good hands here, and placed it up against the wall, before shifting uncomfortably in his armor. He longed for that bath and a chance to change into a kimono, he knew exactly which one he wanted, the one with the gaijin silk on the inside that felt so good against his skin. He needed it after this long and trying day.
Utaku-san, he finally spoke, you have a wonderful collection of Gaijin things, you must let me see them all sometime. Haruka and I have seen quite a few Gaijin things in the past and they have always intrigued me. He gave Haruka a look silently asking if she was alright while Kasumi was giving her response to his request. He needed to know she would be alright. He knew that he would not let her write that letter to her husband, he would do so, and send it later that night with his dispatches to his generals, who would make sure he received it. It was his duty as her caregiver and yojimbo in this matter.
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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 22, 2011 10:45:46 GMT -5
Haruka had put on a brave face for all that had happened, but with things now not so forced into her face she was able to take on a more stoic and controlled expression. But Tomatsu, having spoken with her and seen her could see the subdued pain she forced down now.
She would turn away and put her mask back in place as she seemed to keep to the edge of the room. Holding her back to Kasumi and Tomatsu, averting her own gaze. "Tea would help.. yes, it would indeed." She just remained standing as she kept herself closed off for now.
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Post by Utaku Kasumi on Sept 22, 2011 12:40:23 GMT -5
Kasumi glanced at Tomatsu and nodded. Of course, Akodo-sama. If you want, I can take you for a trip at my house and show you most precious goods.
Rubbed her nose and looked at her guests with a content.
Good, feel free to sit wherever you would like to. I will go ask for tea and sake and take my armor off. Want me to send someone to help you with yours? She looked at Haruka and Tomatsu. Oh, can you tell me if you prefer take a bath in private of your room or use our indoor bath? Because if you'd like indoor one, we can go there even now. It is a separated one for women and for men. Servants could bring you your drinks there.
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Akodo Tomatsu
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The Shining Lion
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Sept 22, 2011 12:48:08 GMT -5
I would love a tour of your house. I am a bit of a collector of rare things myself, of course with your connections to the outside world I am sure your collection puts mine to shame. Of course I also have to keep my collection private as where I live things are a bit more conservative.
He stood and whispered something to Haruka. If you don't mind, I would enjoy a private bath, and a chance to get out of my armor. I think we could both could use the chance to unwind and try to forget. He bowed to her and remained next to Haruka, waiting for her to respond.
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Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Sept 23, 2011 16:12:33 GMT -5
Haruka gave a somber nod to Tomatsu. "Yes a bath could do some good.."
She seemed to just drift her gaze up near his, keeping them respectfully averted. But without another word, she would follow her nose into the private baths, leaving Kasumi and Tomatsu alone as she drifted into the privacy of the bath rather quietly. Her steps hardly made a sound as she looked forward to having some time to herself, out of the scrutiny of the Lion and the Unicorn.
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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
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Sept 23, 2011 16:22:24 GMT -5
Tomatsu wanted an appropriate amount of time after Haruka left, inquiring about various gaijin things around the room he wasn't familiar with, things mostly from the burning sands. After about half an hour of polite conversation with the Utaku-Daimyo, he decided it was time.
If you excuse me Utaku-san, my pains are getting the better of me, please allow me to take a bath and change my clothes. Then perhaps after a bit of food you might show me more of your wonderful gaijin collection. It is vastly larger than mine but I might be able to hold my own in exploring it with you. If I am truly lucky I might be able help you with any mysteries you might have, my knowledge of several gaijin languages is quite good and I will happily put myself at your services. It might even help our friend distract herself from her world of troubles, if we are lucky together.
He bowed to her and waited for her to provide some servants to show him to where he hoped his things had been taken.
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Post by Utaku Kasumi on Sept 23, 2011 16:37:54 GMT -5
Kasumi's eyes were following Haruka. Long sighs could be heard.
Kael. She said softly.
In less than five seconds redhaired man, looking almost just like her, appeared.
Yes, Kasumi-dono? Kael, lead Akodo-sama to the room that was prepared for him. I believe his bath is ready. Bring him anything that he might need and call me when his bath is over. Man bowed to Kasumi and looked at Tomatsu with the respect. Akodo-sama, after your bath is ready, call Kael. He will bring you to the dining room. And after the meal, if you still want it, I can invite you for the tour inside of my house, so I can show you my collections. She bowed her head slightly. Now, if you excuse me, I will follow Haruka to see if she needs anything...
Waved her hand to Kael and he bowed to Tomatsu again, asking him to follow him.
Kasumi left and went after Haruka. She could hear her footsteps. Tell no one to enter the bath She said to one of the servants while passing her by. As you wish, Utaku-dono. Woman bowed to her and followed, to guard the entrance to the bathrooms.
Haruka, come here... Kasumi poked her arm softly, to show her direction where she should go to reach the bathroom. Allow me to asisst you. We don't have to talk or anything. I just need one myself and it's always better to have a company, even if silent.
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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 23, 2011 16:47:22 GMT -5
Even though thirty minutes had passed, Haruka hadn't even gotten herself ready for the bath. It wasn't as though she didn't have enough time surely, but she had hesitated, taking the chance to be alone all the longer it seemed.
She looked to Kasumi for a moment, almost studying the way she was now. There had hardly been time for the two to really meet or spend time together beyond battle. And before her wedding, Haruka had always known her place was beneath Kasumi's immediate notice. She assumed that only now because of her new station that suddenly any concern of hers mattered now.
With her gaze lowered, she was content to follow Kasumi along and join her, still keeping her feet and movements quiet. But out of the uneasy calm, she gently spoke. "Thank you Kasumi-sama... I'm sorry to be this way here and now. I'm certain the warmth of the bath will help wash away my aches and allow me to be more presentable."
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Akodo Tomatsu
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The Shining Lion
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Sept 24, 2011 14:16:13 GMT -5
He followed Kael to his room, and dismissed him once he was inside. He stripped himself of his armor, piling it up in a corner of the room. He then discarded his clothes, and placed a hand into the tub. The water was warm to the touch and he smiled. He hoped the water would relax his muscles, but he knew that all he had to do was ask Haruka, and she would work out the knots in his back.
He slowly entered the water, one foot followed by the other, then he sat down in the tub. He leaned back against the side of the tub and then suddenly, before he realized it, he was asleep, the long day taking its toll on him. He didn't care, he just was happy to drift off for a while, and forget the world's problems.
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Post by Utaku Kasumi on Sept 24, 2011 14:38:22 GMT -5
Kasumi waved her hand to what Haruka said. Not because she thought it was silly. It was to stop her from talking. She has just smiled and opened the door to the bathroom. After entering, they could feel hot air. Steam coming from the other room was visible even here. On the sides there were racks for armor and clothes. And a pile of towels, waiting for people to use them, same as purple colored yukatas.
Need servants to help you undress? she started to take her armor by herself. Slowly but effectively. Or you want me to help you?
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