Asahina Yukihime
Crane Clan
Crane Clan Ikazuchi
* Air * Water * Shugenja * Artisan * Asahina Family Daimyo *
Posts: 750
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Post by Asahina Yukihime on Oct 11, 2011 19:11:38 GMT -5
Yukihime was tired, but it couldn't be noticed under the well done make up. She, with the aid of other shugenja, was able to transport the Emperor, and a few more proeminent members of the court, here through some kind of instant transport spell. Mevertheless, many courtiers had to walk their way here with Seppun and Crane escort. Yukihime had a few minutes to recompose herself, change to fine clean clothes, make her prays. While everyone else was, thanks to the fortunes, arriving safely. Courts were never her favorite spot. She was taught how to speak and behave, how to fulfill the protocol. But she lacks the talents to twist others words. She had to go out of her temple and check the newly instaled court. Kyuden Otomo is in full life and moviment while heimins runs up and down the many floors organizeing rooms, food, baths, bandages and all that is suddenly needed. Within the main halls, It is not not a surprise to find unhappy and unpleased courtiers. Toshi Ranbo is lost, for now at least. And the long night walk didn't improved to mood of the retreating courtiers. Yukihime entrance didn't draw attention. Her very presence is mild and discrete. Her hair slowly starts to be blow by a gentle breeze again. The presence of the air elemental comfort her. As court goes on courties make their speech. It's time to talk for them. It's their time to shine. Despite everything outside, their battlefield is here, and they skirmishes with words as elegantly as could be done with swords. No art, no poetry, no nice words... life is becoming bitter every day. As the 'hot topic' of the whole court also becomes bitter, Yukihime finaly seeks her time to speak, ance once it's time... "It is no time to turn against the few allies we have, the few loyal servants of the Emperor. Toshi Ranbo was lost to the Lion prowess, not to the fault of anyone else. We already have to many enemies to make new enemies amoung ourselves."She took a brief look around in a more severe expression than she is used to. "I would like to request this to stop. We must seek a path to victory, intelligence and wisdom are needed now, not discord."Of course, probably she couldn't stop all the poisoning tongues. But would be good enough if she could prevent her own family to get indisposed with anyone else. Seeking for peace is not the same as finding the ones guilty of war. "I specially request the Asahina family to restrain from blaming our allies. Their plans are their own, we must respect the alliance until the end, for we shall not be the ones to betray any trust that rely on us. Seeking new enemies is surely not a way to peace."((OOC: Yap, Open RP, if anyone have anything else to speak at this court or nearby area ))
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Post by The Blue Ronin on Oct 11, 2011 19:34:09 GMT -5
A young Yoritomo courtier wearing elaborate robes that somehow seemed ill-fitting on him approached Yukihime. He had large, slightly nervous eyes, close-cropped dark hair and a Mantis mon on his left chest. He seemed equally ill at ease with the simple wakizashi he wore.
"Yukihime-sama, an inspired speech if I may say so. I hope that your words will be heeded. Obviously your own family will obey their Daimyo. But I am not so sure about the others. War has many casualties and amity is often one of them"
"But actually I wanted to speak to you on another matter. I understand that your yojimbo is Daidoji Yuuka-sama? I have some business I need to discuss with her"
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Shosuro Yoichi
Scorpion Clan
Actor, lover of... late night walks.
Posts: 71
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Post by Shosuro Yoichi on Oct 11, 2011 20:12:18 GMT -5
From the back of the room, near the less honored tables, Shosuro Yoichi stood up, and bowed to the rest of the tired assembly. Despite the harshness of the journey, the Shosuro had somehow found robes suited to the court, clean and in the style of the Scorpion.
"Honored samurai, I would extend thanks to the Emerald Champion, who lead our forces to victory at Permission City, and who now helps govern that city in the name of the Son of Heaven." The Shosuro prostrated in the direction of the empty dais, now decorated with the mon of the Hantei. Weary cheers were raised to honor the successful Champion.
He stood, and continued. "And if you would permit me, I would like to extend my thanks to the Seppun yojimbo who guarded us on our journey here." Yoichi bowed to the head of the guard, deep and full of respect. The guard's bow was noticeably shallower. Again, murmurs of respect echoed throughout the hall.
It was then that Yoichi locked eyes with Asahina Yukihime. He bowed low again. "I would also like to congratulate our Crane allies. Their retreat was after the battle was flawless, coordinated perfection. One expects nothing less of the Crane."
With that, Shosuro took his seat.
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Bayushi Hisa
Scorpion Clan
Samurai * Courtier * Dark Paragon of Will * Loyal
Posts: 479
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Post by Bayushi Hisa on Oct 11, 2011 21:19:02 GMT -5
Hisa had only recently arrived in Kyuden Otomo from Kyuden Bayushi. He traveled hard and fast, but was unable to assist in evacuating the Emperor, due to the commotion in Kyuden Bayushi detaining him longer than he intended. He left his wife, Bayushi Kaoin, in Kyuden Bayushi to take care of his duties there.
He was thankful for deciding to wear his mempo today, for it hid his smile. His eyes alone nodded his approval at his clansman while the actor sat back down. He stood to take his turn to extend his thanks to the assembled courtiers. He wore the blood red robes, trimmed in gold; a gift from the Spider clan.
I have supported the Loyalist forces since this war broke out, but I wish to echo my clansman's praise. He turned to the Phoenix assembled in the court. We are thankful to our friends amongst the Phoenix whose dedication to Hantei Naseru-dono brought the Scorpion as a whole to our cause and who, in their infinite wisdom, have gone to reinforce the forces of the Emerald Champion after his successful sacking of Permission City after a delay I am sure was caused long debate. He bowed deeply in their direction.
Next he turned to the few Dragon assembled. To the Dragon, the clan of my wife, I extend my personal admiration. After the perilous decent from the Northern Mountains, you have bravely placed yourselves on the front lines against Kaneka and the Unicorn. We are all humbled by your bold actions. Another deep bow.
Lastly he turned to the extensive collection of courtiers from the Crane clan and bowed to the highest ranking one he recognized, the Asahina. To the Esteemed and Just Crane, your valiant efforts to prevent the fall of Toshi Ranbo will be remembered for generations to come. The duty and honor the Crane to the Son of Heaven lead to his swift and efficient escape to the safety of Kyuden Otomo. He bowed low again.
Lastly he addressed all assembled. Asahina Yukihime-san is correct. Now is not a time to point fingers or fuel dissent amongst our Loyal armies. Our duty is to the Son of Heaven and his safety and protection is our paramount concern. We need to make preparations for reclaiming a second lost capitol city. Otosan Uchi fell to the darkness and Hantei-dono himself relocated this court to Toshi Ranbo. We must do all we can to reclaim it before it falls for good!
Hisa heard scattered applause at his call for action and sat back down beside Yoichi.
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Post by Jay Luo on Oct 11, 2011 21:37:52 GMT -5
Otomo Rakuro's fan snaps shut. "Such pretty words. I would expect no less of a Crane. Of course, we are all familiar with the pacifist nature of the Asahina family. Most admirable," he sneers condescendingly. "Yet pacifism and pretty words served poorly in defending Toshi Ranbo." Few would dare to speak so to an Asahina of such high status, but Rakuro seems supremely confident that his relation to the Otomo daimyo protects him from repurcussion.
"The Emperor's compassion for his servants is infinite...yet, in his wisdom, he must consider the relative merits of his servants." The Otomo courtier's fan snaps open again. "Or...lack of same," he adds maliciously.
[Note: Not my personal opinion.]
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Yasuki Chad
Crane Clan
Crab Clan
*Crab Clan Courtier *Experienced *Samurai *Daimyo *Hero *Experienced *Commander
Posts: 476
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Post by Yasuki Chad on Oct 11, 2011 22:14:46 GMT -5
"Hold your tongue, craven. I saw none of your family fighting the Lion with us. And I doubt at this point Hantei-dono would care if a sharp mouthed subversive punk dissapeared after insulting the men and women who gave their lives to allow the Court a safe exit."
The Courtiers nearbye go white, either in sudden fear for their safety or that such blunt, theatening words were cast in their presence at them. The one who spoke was a Man in the Company of the Taisa of the Yasuki House Guard. Yasuki Yagyu regarded his rude companion with disgust.
"Katsumoto-san, return to your tent. I will notify you of your punishment later."
He turned to the Otomo. "I apoligize for my subordinant. Many of us are still stung by our defeat. Such words have caused in the past otherwise honorable men to lash out at their detractors. I do hope that does not happen again here in the Home of the Otomo. I shall see that Katsumoto pays for his words, and that all hear of your statement that surely caused him to over-react." He gives a deep bow to the Otomo.
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Bayushi Hisa
Scorpion Clan
Samurai * Courtier * Dark Paragon of Will * Loyal
Posts: 479
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Post by Bayushi Hisa on Oct 11, 2011 22:28:00 GMT -5
(OOC: Adding an edit to take into account Yoichis post below)
Hisa had to take a sip of his tea and concentrate on the nonsense Yoichi was whispering in his ear to keep from giggling at the Otomo's words. He positively gulped down the remainder of his tea when the upstart Crab spoke and nearly choked with the effort of resisting plunging into a fit of hysterical laughter.
Collecting himself again, Hisa rose again and put his hand on Yagyu's shoulder. Do not apologize for your subordinate, Crab-san. He, as well as the Imperial, both had valid points to make. He stepped forward and addressed the assembled masses again. The Otomo is correct in that pretty words and pacifism will not reclaim Toshi Ranbo and the Son of Heaven will surely judge the actions of his followers. While I did not see a single member of the Otomo family during the battle at Toshi Ranbo, he shot a dangerous look at Rakuro, I did not see any Miya amongst the dead either.
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Shosuro Yoichi
Scorpion Clan
Actor, lover of... late night walks.
Posts: 71
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Post by Shosuro Yoichi on Oct 11, 2011 22:28:42 GMT -5
(OOC, this happens out of sequence of the posts)
Yoichi seems not to notice the sudden disturbance, his fan appearing with a snap, blocking the upset Yasuki from sight, as was proper.
He leans over to whisper something inconsequential to Hisa-sama during the outburst.
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Kakita Sojiro
Crane Clan Global Mod
When you die, will you be remembered, or will you be just another strand in the tapestry?
Posts: 900
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Post by Kakita Sojiro on Oct 11, 2011 22:33:36 GMT -5
Tired and weary, wet, bloodstained and muddy, and bearing the marks of battle, Sojiro and his companions made their way into the courtroom. They had arrived in the middle of Yukihime's speech, and the words from Yoichi and particularly Hisa brought a smile to Sojiro's stubble-strewn face as his allies gingerly lowered Hitoshi into a seat. The smile quickly melted away upon hearing the Otomo's words, though. His blue and green eyes lit up like someone had struck a fire behind them. As he had yet to take a seat, preferring to stand so as to make sure that Hitoshi was seated comfortably, he drove the butt end of his makeshift walking stick into the floor, mocking the clicking fan of the courtier as he did so. "Please forgive our late arrival, sans and samas. The walk from Toshi Ranbo was taxing as you may be able to tell from our appearance, and if it was not for the sacrifice of one Asahina Edo, we may not have made it at all. I would ask you all to honor his memory and ask your ancestors to watch over his final journey, for he gave his life so that we may stand before you all now."He turned to Yukihime. "Yukihime-san, as usual you speak with wisdom. It is easy to see why you have been chosen to hold the position within your family that you hold, even at so young an age."He then turned to address the Scorpions, attempting to bow with the assistance of his walking stick. It was neither as deep nor as graceful as he had wanted it to be, but given his current condition it was all he could manage. " Scorpion-shi, you both also speak truth, and you do my clan great honor with your words. I am humbled to walk into Kyuden Otomo and find the Scorpion speaking words of praise and unity. Truly, I do not have the words to express my gratitude and appreciation for this. "And then he turned to address the Otomo courtier. This time, he did not bow. He stared the man straight in his eyes as the Otomo hid his face behind his fan. Sojiro's eyes lit up further, but his voice dropped in volume, becoming low and icy. "As for you. I walk into Kyuden Otomo with wounded samurai from the Battle of Toshi Ranbo, and what do I find? Scorpion and Crane supporting each other in unity. Phoenix and Dragon who have traveled all this way to support us and the Hantei... and a snide little courtier, hiding his face behind his pretty little fan while he slanders the efforts of heros and those who have fallen, all for the possibility of scurrying up the political ladder of favors like the rodent he is."
"You speak of the pascifist Asahina and their lack of contribution as if you were actually there at Toshi Ranbo, and yet I see that you bear no signs of battle." He slowly walked over, letting his walking stick make a loud thump with every step, and began to pick at the courtier's clothing, getting smears of mud on the gaudy robe. "Indeed, your clothing seems impeccable, the epitome of style and class, without even a single flaw. Quite pretty, in fact. Delicate, even." He stumped away on his stick, turning his back to the man as he continued. "In fact, with such an impeccable, beautiful outfit, I wonder how much time you have spent paying attention to the war efforts, and how much time you've spent dedicated to your own vanity." He whirled back around, facing the courtier again. "Let me enlighten you, courtier-san, as just how important the Asahina family's contributions to the defense of Toshi Ranbo were. Without them and their healing magics, there would hardly have been a Crane or Seppun force left to escort the emperor from Toshi Ranbo once the Lion and Unicorn took the western wall. Indeed, I would say that it is directly due to their efforts that he was able to make it out at all, because without the Asahina, no one would have been left to escort him here. This is to say nothing of the sacrifices made to help the rest of us on the field, including the man who gave his life so that I and my companions could be standing here, right now. It makes me wonder if your contributions to the war are of equal measure - or if you've contributed at all. By the looks of you, it seems that you think pretty fans and cutting words are all that are needed to win this war. Or perhaps, you aren't concerned with the war at all, so long as you find some way to worm your way into a higher position serving an Emperor, or a Shogun, or whoever sits on the throne.""You are in the company of warriors. Warriors who are unified in purpose and support of thier allies. There is no place for self serving, serpent tongued opportunists here, and if you have nothing else to contribute but that, then I suggest you go shopping for a new kimono in Toshi Ranbo. I'm certain the Lion tailors will be more than willing to trim you to the proper size to fit one."(OOC Edited in response to Hisa's edit )
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Asahina Yukihime
Crane Clan
Crane Clan Ikazuchi
* Air * Water * Shugenja * Artisan * Asahina Family Daimyo *
Posts: 750
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Post by Asahina Yukihime on Oct 11, 2011 22:53:10 GMT -5
Yuuka wasn't exactly her yojimbo, but she recently meet the mentioned samurai-ko. The mood on the court wouldn't allow Yukihime to freely talk about such informal matters right now. Yukihime bowed to Yoritomo-san after his words.
"I believe the Daidoji mentioned is arriving soon."
She heard the Scorpion with attention when then addressed to her. What could she say? Of course she wasn't pleased with the outcomes of Toshi Ranbo.
Yukihime bowed to both Scorpion, returning the reverence payed to her. All talking about retreat, none talking about holding the Lion out for weeks. And the Otomo joining them...
Asahina then turns her attention towards the Otomo-sama, without looking directly at him, as always. What could she say? She was about to ask who did better than the Crane to protect the Emperor and Toshi Ranbo? But she wouldn't be driven into the discussion that she just requested her family to avoid. No one is to be blamed.
She speaks clearly to every present samurai
"Otomo-sama is right, pacifism and pretty words couldn't protect Toshi Ranbo. It is sad, isn't it? Sad not the Crane and nor the Otomo could remind the Lion who is the rightful Emperor... even before the war begins. I understand we are going through turbulent war times. But I can only consider that without peace, or proper talking, we can not rebuild Toshi Ranbo, or the Empire.
Without peace, even if momentarily peace, and nicely delivered words, we won't be able to turn this time we have now into a better solution to favor our honored Emperor's will. What can we build if we are distroing?
I believe we all could focus on building solutions now, not destroing alliances. If we can't have peace covering all the Empire, I will be glad enough to have peace among those serving Hantei-sama, when it is possible. If those servants have to fight the rest of the world, I just wan't to make then able to get strengthened by fighting together."
Yukihime expression never changes, whoever she talks to. Otomo's fame for playing with intrigues was well known, even to her, who grew away from courts.
"So, once more, if we could, please, not blame those trying to fight by our side... it may make everyone's life... more virtuous. And it will save us time to be constructive with what really matters now." - Too many brashness around, simple and clearer words may be needed.
"Hantei-sama safety is still a priority and Lion is near. How can every clan contribute from now on?"
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Post by The Blue Ronin on Oct 11, 2011 22:55:17 GMT -5
Ryumon stood silently, watching the debate with amazement. Although he had attended court in Kyuden Gotei before, he had always had one of the Yoritomo courtiers in attendance to give him directions. Now, he was alone, and amid some of the most august personages of the Empire, even if they were slightly careworn. A part of him felt a strange urge to speak out, but he knew he would only bring dishonur to his Clan - a dishonour that they could scarce afford in these circles. So he kept silently and anxiously stayed near to Yukihime. He was here on a mission. That was all.
As Yukihime acknowledged him, he bowed deeply, maybe too deeply, in return. "Thank you, Yukihime-sama. I will wait here to speak to her, then"
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Shosuro Yoichi
Scorpion Clan
Actor, lover of... late night walks.
Posts: 71
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Post by Shosuro Yoichi on Oct 11, 2011 22:57:31 GMT -5
Yoichi's fan has now completely obscured his view to Sojiro-san.
Yoichi's eyes flicker to Rakuro's midriff, looking for a katana. Seeing only a wakizashi there, Yoichi did not rate the Crane duelist's chances very highly, Kakita or no.
Rakuro-san will be off to find a champion, unless I miss my guess. Will Sojiro-san be merely humbled, or dead?
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Bayushi Hisa
Scorpion Clan
Samurai * Courtier * Dark Paragon of Will * Loyal
Posts: 479
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Post by Bayushi Hisa on Oct 11, 2011 23:07:32 GMT -5
Hisa took off his mask and spoke freely with Yoichi, loud enough for those nearby to hear, but not loud enough to carry through the room. I would not be so quick to count the Kakita out. I heard he defeated a few rebel generals in single combat at Toshi Ranbo. Even weary I would put even odds on Sojiro-san winning a duel should the Otomo challenge.
(OOC: I am assuming because of the use of maroon you were talking aloud. If not I will delete thhis post)
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Shosuro Yoichi
Scorpion Clan
Actor, lover of... late night walks.
Posts: 71
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Post by Shosuro Yoichi on Oct 11, 2011 23:30:22 GMT -5
OOC: We can make it a whisper to you.
"I had not heard of this Kakita-san, Bayushi-sama. It would be interesting either way, of course. Court has been rather dull of late."
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Doji Naetaru
Crane Clan
Doji Daimyo - Courtier - Otomo Twin
Posts: 687
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Post by Doji Naetaru on Oct 12, 2011 1:05:41 GMT -5
Naetaru was hearing to what the people present were saying as well as the words of his clansmen. The Asahina daimyo was holding the reins of dignity and poise rather perfectly, but regardless he chose to rise up and speak. Now, it was the time to do so.
"Honored samurai, it is true that the battle of Toshi Ranbo was lost and that this carries heavy repercussions to everyone of us present. Samurais of all Clan loyal to the Hantei stood there and assisted in the Crane defense. However our loss is a hollow one. What hadn't brought victory, bore unity among us. From the Clans of the Crane, Phoenix, Dragon, Scorpion even those of the Crab and Mantis many an individual have shown their worth into heroic efforts."
He looked over the Otomo.
"Therefore Otomo Rakuro-san, I would politely ask that we all rethink of the worthy advantages we reaped from this defeat, rather than searching for the fault in it. I myself did not fight in this war, however as I accompanied the Emperor's retinue on the exit, I have seen many of those Clan noblemen present prove their worth. Can you justify otherwise?"
His glance was intent. This Otomo would be the last in his life to spent bitterness and dissent.
"Can you look them in the eye and demand consolation over our loss? Can the fall of Toshi Ranbo be actually considered a true loss, when at the time the army of the Emerald Champion has proven victorious reinforced by our allies of the Dragon and the Phoenix?"
He looked at the rest of the people glancing over Sojiro and Yukihime.
"Personally I simply wish to extend my gratitude for all those noble souls that carried us away to safety after a battle of small casualties. The Crane have sought to that perfectly, let's see to it then that we all remain unified in goodwill"
Naetaru had taken a few steps back. He looked at the rest of the Imperial Court members. His talk had ended.
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