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Post by Doji Kenna on Oct 15, 2011 10:27:39 GMT -5
Since greeting Tomatsu and Haruka as etiquette dictated Kenna had tried to stay clear of the conversation beyond the minimum needed for politeness. As he carefully observed the currents of tone, inference, posture and language he focused his mind on assessing the sincerity of the words. Like Sojiro he had started the war with a great feeling of betrayal, the idea that his fellow Rokugani could rebel against their Emperor had seemed so outrageous and disgusting it had made him sick to his stomach. Since that time however, as reason had grown at the expense of reaction, he had begun to appreciate the strong feelings on the part of the rebels, and though he still could not agree with their choice of actions, he knew many of them to still hold to high principles of honour. The Lion Champion from all reports was such a man, and seeing him in person Kenna could only agree with that assessment.
As the conversation around him developed he continued to observe as best he could, taking the task of serving tea for his assembled social superiors. At Mitsuoko's words he thought he detected a quickly hidden flash of hope or approval on Tomatsu's face, smiling to himself he maintained his careful observation.
(OOC: To my considerable irritation I've been having problems getting the forums to work for me, so apologies for my late replies)
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Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Oct 16, 2011 12:04:15 GMT -5
"That is why we are all here, is it not Mitsuoko-sama?" Haruka turning her form to face the Crane beside her all the more.
It seemed strange now for her to have bothered hiding her form with the armor of a Matsu, but inwardly she felt proud to be seen just as much as known as a true friend of the Lion in one of the most important exchanges in this war.
"Let's just realize what we've accomplished here tonight. You understand that we are here, and we mean you no harm. We have not come to interrogate you, or capture or any of this other nonsense." She offered up her hands, resting them with palms facing open and up. "We have nothing to hide in this matter, much as we know the same can now be said of you. Now then..."
Her hands turn, pushing the palms onto the wooden table, around the cup of tea before her. "We all know what we've come for, but the question seems to remain hanging. What do the Crane want? What will be the grounds for peace?"
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Kakita Mitsouko
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Oct 16, 2011 19:10:14 GMT -5
She looked at the Scorpion, with a shadow of a smile. Lady Haruka's position in this war was really obscure for expectators from outside, given the recent known events. But Mitsouko was focused in the big picture right now, so she said:
The Crane, Lady, always strived for peace. Always. Talking about any thought on you coming here to do us harm, I understand we met here by Kharma or destiny; I never thought you would be here with the purpose to capture me or worse. If the Fortunes gathered us in this very inn, in this very evening, they have a purpose, and I only can understand this purpose is to forge peace. I don't know if you speak in behalf of your own clan, she looked at Haruka but I know you understand it would be arrogant from my part to think I have the right to decide by myself, over a single cup of tea, a great step like this, to my clan and to the Empire. The same way I think Lion-sama would probably consult his advisors about whatever plan involving Crane and Lion, and this war future. And Mitsouko exchanged her glance from Bayushi Haruka to Akodo Tomatsu. My tairo, my clan, will debate over this idea, if this idea survives to this night. If it survives to the next phrase in this table. I still don't know the interests and thoughts for the future Akodo-sama and his clan have. Understand me, I will not pour peace ideas over an unfertile terrain. We can scratch and even build a plan about peace tonight, if it's of mutual interest. Forgive my bluntness, but is it?
After a sip on her tea, she said one more thing: And I can say I will passionately press towards a solution that can make the Emperor and the Shogun meet and talk over their differences without further bloodshed, if this idea goes with the interests of Lion clan.
edited: Only the obvious typos
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Oct 17, 2011 22:58:21 GMT -5
He smiled for a second before placing a hand on his chin and began to rub it. Being the clan champion of the Lion, I can speak for them, if I am so inclined. But of course we would have to see what terms there would be offered. As for the Lady Bayushi, she has just been appointed my Yojimbo, and a friend of the Lion. She speaks here with the authority that any karo of a champion can. I trust her wisdom in these matters as good as my own.
He took another sip of his tea. Now what exactly do the Crane wish and what are they willing to present as the terms of this peace?
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Kakita Sojiro
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When you die, will you be remembered, or will you be just another strand in the tapestry?
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Post by Kakita Sojiro on Oct 18, 2011 0:24:53 GMT -5
Sojiro's eyes narrowed slightly in surprise. Their company seemed to be a bit misguided as to their reasons for being here, as far as he knew. They hadn't come to make peace between the Lion and the Crane, they had come to see if the Lion and the Crane could get Kaneka and Nasaru to meet.
He said nothing, waiting to follow his Daimyo's lead on this issue.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Oct 18, 2011 4:28:49 GMT -5
Mitsouko thought for a while, and spoke seriously: Can we, me and you, Lord Akodo, to travel together to Kaneka-dono’s presence, and can we try to make him aware of the necessity we have to stop this bloody war to move our attentions to the south; and to exterminate the maho sorcery spots spread by Rokugan? Can we, Crane and Lion, have a cease of hostilies while we do it, at least? That’s all I ask for now. About a longer and lasting truce, or peace agreement between our clans, I must admit I wasn’t prepared for this offer when I first began this travel. Nothing would please me more than hearing your thoughts about this possibility. We surely can work over an agreement with Lion. Afterall we are the Left and Right Hand and thus must act in harmony. For all I understand vassals of the Empire like me must do everything in order to defend Rokugan. If truce it is, and it is possible, it will be. If putting my head in the hands of Toturi supporters will maybe make Kaneka-tono consider my petition to turn his attention to our true enemy, instead of warring against loyal servers of the Empire like his own allies, I will. Her cup was empty and she carefully deposited it on the table. I just cannot think that Toturi supporters are my true enemies; those are right now breaching our defenses while Rokugani do war. But I am sure Crane and Lion together, will show to the divided Empire the sincerity of our common goal. Can we work to make our parts to talk their differences and not force ourselves against each other's throats? Can Lion and Crane do not attack each other while we wait for this to happen?
OCC: If my words aren't clear feel free to PM me.
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Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Oct 18, 2011 12:10:15 GMT -5
Her words made the warrior in Haruka stir quite vividly as she adjusted herself into a more aggressive 'stance', but only in a subtle way. Her hands tightened a bit in her gloves, her jaw tensing as well. The idea of the Crane making an audience with Toturi seemed to irate her in a rush. In her heart it was because of what Senshi had done in the presence of Hantei, but in her mind so much could go wrong for the rest of the war if they were allowed to communicate.
"Oh and I'm sure there will be no detours or convenient bandit attacks to separate us when we come closer to the Dragon forces, also prominent Hantei-ists.. Or perhaps the Phoenix and the Emerald Champion Hachi as well?
It does not surprise me that words are all that the Crane would desire. Words you do well. But if you had a message you wished brought to Toturi-dono, you'd best leave it with us in good faith. We were not brought here to be any protector of a Crane ambassador across battlefields. And any other route would take too long, as Toturi-dono would likely already be in the capital.
Or perhaps.." She shifted her seat again, raising herself up to meet at eye level with the other Crane.
"You'd prefer to remain in Toshi Ranbo as our esteemed guests and you can have your council with him there.." There was a strange look on Haruka's face at that moment, quite the dangerous one. Not something subtle and restrained like a Scorpion, but almost foreign. She knew these things were a matter of trust, she wasn't certain she wanted any of it now. She didn't need it.
"Or if you so wish, I can take whatever message you wish to Toturi-dono. My horse and I are some of the fastest in the empire." She hid the pain from riding so much behind her tense jaw as she merely drew in a breath. "That much even I could promise you. But that is all."
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Kakita Mitsouko
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Oct 18, 2011 13:21:25 GMT -5
Mitsouko noticed the new unveiled behavior of the Scorpion, listened to her words, but something new and precious was about to happen there, being Haruka able to see it or not. And just waited to see what Akodo sama would do about his yojimbo manners. However, she was a woman herself, and knew perfectly well Haruka was forcing her body limits too much, beyond the limits of the reasonable, and it would be hazardous to her pregnancy. A sad smile was all she showed to Haruka: Calm down, Lady… If I may suggest, a good rest would do well to you and your child. Like Tomatsu-sama, I'd like to see our children playing together someday... And don't get me wrong, I appreciate your offer, but… If your master had commanded you and you alone to accomplish a mission, Lady Haruka, would you transfer this mission to another? Mitsouko turned to Tomatsu, waiting to hear his response about the ideas she proposed.
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Oct 18, 2011 15:48:12 GMT -5
I can assure you Kakita-san, the matter of Bayushi-san's health are well considered in my hands. If she is in need of rest, I will make sure she finds it the only the best quality beds. As for what we have been discussing.
He took a few minutes to think, meeting the gazes of the other cranes gathered, measuring the men before him. Their silence had not been missed by him. Silent Crane are the most deadly Crane.
Tell Fitsu-san the terms are we are at peace with each other. No Lion or Crane will fight each other under any banner on any battlefield. We can talk more details for a long term peace once the war is done. Some people say I am a great man, but I believe that great men establish a legacy that benefits Rokugan for generations to come. Yes I am champion of a great clan, yes I took Toshi Ranbo, but tell your clanmates that I would like to be known not for these things, but for finally bringing peace between our clans that will last till the Kami return.
He then took another sip of his tea.
Do you find that acceptable Kakita-san?
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Kakita Sojiro
Crane Clan Global Mod
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Post by Kakita Sojiro on Oct 19, 2011 3:43:55 GMT -5
Sojiro's eyes took on a dangerous glint upon hearing the scorpion's accusations and insults directed at his daimyo. The nerve of this woman! He was about to retort, to explain to her that unlike the scorpion, the Crane had no need to resort to lies and ninja-style ambushes to achieve their goals. He was also about to tell her that if she insulted Mitsouko again he would happily remove her tongue from her mouth. Then he caught Mitsouko's comment about her being with child.
There would be no honor in provoking a duel and killing a pregnant woman.
Instead, he shifted his stance slightly, responding to her aggressive posture with one of his own that would allow him to easily draw his blades if need be, even while seated, and remained silent. Mitsouko obviously had this woman and this situation well in hand. And a moment later, his assumption was proven to be correct as Tomatsu made his offer. Sojiro could hardly believe his ears - the Lion champion was offering peace?
Tomatsu had proven to be full of surprises. And he had proven once again that Sojiro's notion of the Lion being full of unthinking warmongers was very much incorrect. His respect for the man went up another notch.
Haruka, on the other hand..... bah. Between the Shosuro and Bayushi at court and now this woman, he had recieved his fill of the Scorpion clan, and then some. But there would be time to settle up with them later. For now, his duty came first - and that duty was ensuring Mitsouko's safety and success in this mission. So he remained silent, although he suspected his eyes gave away his feelings toward this woman who had insulted his clan and daimyo in the same breath.
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Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Oct 19, 2011 11:34:51 GMT -5
Haruka's mind howled in defiance as she could barely contain herself among them all. Even Tomatsu was abandoning her here and now, allowing the Crane to waltz through territory and do as they pleased.
Her eyes grew hard as they searched over the other two Crane. Still, silent, but likely just looking on her with the same disregard all who never question do. She cared little for it all now as she rose from her place with a bit of a jolt, nothing that would dislodge the fair Mitsuoko of course. She had only been civil, although a bit foolish to think that Haruka would just stand by and allow a possible assassin or some other underhanded tactic through to Toturi. It's not that it was like the Crane to do so, but she could understand now that no man was above dishonor, it was only human and these were times of war.
Her glare fell onto Tomatsu then, and he would need no words to explain her opinion on this matter, or how strongly now she felt on it. But rather than let her words and emotions consume her, she misdirected her appearance.
"Perhaps Kakita-sama is right. Finish what you started, Akodo-sama. I'm going to get some air." Her words were thick and tense as she visibly did her best to keep a lid on her reactions. She wasn't about to spout off like a wild woman in this place. But she also wasn't about to remain at this table and see this through. Her words had been spoken, and before any one of them could raise a single word to try and stop her, she grabbed the Matsu kabuto and stormed out, doing her best to keep her temper under control as well as her shame.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Oct 19, 2011 14:09:26 GMT -5
Mitsouko observed the outburst of Haruka, having another sample of Lady Bayushi's unstable temper, and after a slight bow in acknowledge of her intentions, waited the woman to leave. And once the door after the Scorpion woman was again closed, Mitsouko permitted to express a true emotion again, showing a pleased smile after Tomatsu's proposal and question:
Yes, it is, Lord Akodo.
We do believe it’s the better thing we can do for Rokugan right now, and, as I said, all samurai must strive for the best for the Empire. I have firm conviction peace is the right way to walk in. This truce will be made with this terms, I give you my word. As soon as you and Fitsu sama be able to an official meeting about it, the truce will be signed, honorable Lion-sama.
Let me please offer you some sake to celebrate our common goal: peace between our houses and a safer Rokugan! May the Fortunes bless our souls to achieve both!
May I?
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Oct 20, 2011 7:29:23 GMT -5
He waved a hand dismissively. Kakita-san, one day, when this war is over I shall explain myself more fully. Needless to say, however, that I am not allowed to drink in public, my sensei forbade it during my dojo days; and he never lifted the ban.
He looked up and after Haruka, an agitated look on his face. He didn't make eye contact with the others at the table any more. He stood up and bowed to them all at once, only slightly as befitting his status compared to them, before speaking. Crane sans, if you will excuse me, I have business outside to attend to, keeping the morale of my troops up is very important these days as I'm sure you understand. As for your message to Toturi, if you leave a sealed letter here in my care I will find that it makes its way to our Emperor. It is the least I can do for such fine company you have given me tonight. I look forward to meeting you all at Winter Court this year again. You will all certainly be invited as my personal guests to attend a private party with me, I assure you that. I do hope you will attend. He turned around and picked up his sword, keeping his hands far away from the handle, a clear gesture that he was only picking it up as he was intending to go outside, after Bayushi-san.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Oct 20, 2011 12:50:41 GMT -5
OCC: Sorry, but I think in any moment Crane mentioned a letter. Haruka did.
Haru-edit: Hopefully more suitable?
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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?
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Post by Kakita Sojiro on Oct 20, 2011 17:01:37 GMT -5
Sojiro rose after Tomatsu did and returned his bow, deeper than Tomatsu's had been.
"Tonight has been an enlightening experience for me, Tomatsu-sama, and I thank you for it. I look forward to seeing you at winter court, and may the Fortunes keep you safe until then."
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