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Post by Soshi Kiso on Oct 12, 2011 18:50:19 GMT -5
(This thread happens immediately after the events of the thread CareIf you feel you would like to be a part of this thread, please send me a pm. Pretty much any Scorpion is already expected to participate, but I'm sure some others could think of good reasons to get involved.) It was the middle of the Hour of the Ox. His eyes had not yet opened, but he had awoken. A terrible ache arose from his temple. He reached up a hand to gingerly touch his forehead to feel the bump. He felt the blistering of his hand at the same time. His eyes opened. It was dark, so it seemed to matter not that the eyelids had risen from their position. Kiso had no idea how much time had passed as the events of the last few days came forward in his mind. He was in a chair, but did not recollect sitting back down. The last thing he remembered was preparing a spell..... He stood suddenly. He had been preparing a spell to heal Senshi, and he had fallen asleep. Fool! His bag was still on his shoulder, as he reached in to grab a candle to discern his location, something sticky and drying was on his robes. Blood. Senshi's blood. He felt like he was going to be sick. Blood never bothered him before, but then it had not been the blood of his Champion! He quickly lit the candle, and saw the spray line across his front from Haruka's slash. After his eyes adjusted and moved away from his garments, he could see he was in the main room of Senshi's quarters. The doors were closed, and not a sound could be heard. Before anything else, Kiso needed to see if Senshi was alright. He approached the door to his sleeping quarters, and opened it slowly. He saw the eyes of the assistant peering at him. But his own eyes we're drawn to the form laying in the bed. Senshi was asleep, but he looked more peaceful. Kiso breathed a sigh of relief. He shut the door, went to the other end of the room and exited into the hallway. He hadn't even noticed Haruka near the bed. One of the guards looked a bit dismayed at the sight of Kiso. His hair disheveled, robes covered in blood, red blistering hands and a growing bump on his forehead. He was sure that on some level, it was slightly humorous, but he was not in a laughing mood. Which way to Yogo Hiro-sama's quarters? He remembered quite clearly the old man had found a scroll that would help begin the quest...
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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 Oct 12, 2011 19:06:32 GMT -5
Haruka had remained awake all night, perched beside Senshi's bed with her katana cleaned and sheathed against her, almost appearing to prop her up with the angle it rested from the floor and onto her shoulders. When she heard Kiso awaken from his rest she pulled herself steadily to her feet. It seemed nothing could ease her heart now, but at least the rage was relinquished.
Still covered in his blood, although far less of it she follow Kiso out, hardly realizing that she slid across the floor inadvertently with a stealthy step. Her sheath in hand, the other came and rested on Kiso's shoulder with a soft grip.
But much as the motion would catch most of guard, Haruka merely held it there and only gently tensed it to reassure the Soshi. Her words softened again as they caressed the air in a delicate and worried tone. "Kiso-san, are you all right."
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Post by Soshi Kiso on Oct 12, 2011 19:31:32 GMT -5
No, he wasn't alright. He still felt tired, unwashed and unkempt. A terrible headache, and hands that felt they were on fire. But none of that was as bad as the feeling that he was failing the man he had as much love for as his father, Bayushi Senshi.
He didn't want to turn around. Somehow he knew that if he saw Haruka's eyes, he might cry. The woman's husband was gravely wounded, and her heart had the room to care about him as well. His shoulder slumped under her gentle grip.
Genki desu. But there is much to be done....Haruka-sama. The words came out in a whisper, full of torment.
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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 Oct 12, 2011 19:46:51 GMT -5
"Kiso..." She lowered her face a bit as she held him there a time longer. He could not hide the pain he was putting himself through, nor did he have the capacity to even lie to her now. The torment still weighed on her heart as she summoned forth the words she hoped would empower him now, if nothing else, then at least for a time.
"Please, just do your best. You know I trust you with his life just as much as I would trust you with my own. Despite all of the politics, beyond all the bickering, I know I can count on you and I know his life was in no better hands."
Her hand tensed again, as she had to resist the urge to pull him back into her arms and hold him. He had to keep the strength to stand on his own now, and have faith in himself, more than ever.
"Whatever happens now, know that I am proud and honored to have had you help in these matters with Senshi. I owe you a great deal my friend. And one day I hope to repay that debt.
Thank you."
She would remove her hand from him then, only remaining at her door for now and hoping in her heart that she'd done some good. The world may have been clinging and clawing for her attention, but it could all wait until this trial had gotten underway. For now she would remain until Senshi regained consciousness, the guardian he needed.
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Shosuro Kyo
Scorpion Clan
*Magistrate *Loyal *Paragon of Duty *Lord of Dance
Posts: 123
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Post by Shosuro Kyo on Oct 12, 2011 21:20:35 GMT -5
Kyo was pretty much ignored by the events that took place, but he didn't mind. He understood the importance of the events and new that the best bet would be to stay relaxed and rested, in case he was needed by the daimyos or the champion. He sat outside the door in perfect meditation waiting to be of use to the Scorpion Clan.
He sat outside the door to the champions room, perfectly still. Many would think him meditating but Kyo just merely honed his senses to their fullest to hear things that most could not. He heard the very light conversation that happened inside the room.
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Shosuro Honzo
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Shosuro Daimyo * Ninja* "Master of Shadows"* Loyal * Unique
Posts: 194
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Post by Shosuro Honzo on Oct 13, 2011 2:39:12 GMT -5
The messenger walked calmly down the corridor. Hands folded into her sleeves, she looked like a non-descript courtier on her way to serving her superior. Her crimson and black silks swished softly as she walked. Her mask was a sheer purple veil that covered her face from the nose down. Small amethysts hung fromthe bottom of the veil tinkling and chiming as she walked.
She came to the broad, opulent corridor that housed the chambers of the Scorpion Champion and other suites designed to house various dignitaries and other prominent Scorpion.
She saw him sitting just down from the guarded doors to the Champion's room in a meditation position, just as her master said she would. Shosuro Kyo was still as she approached him. She bowed slightly as one eye opened.
"My master sends his greetings, Kyo-san. He has need of you, if you are willing."
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Shosuro Kyo
Scorpion Clan
*Magistrate *Loyal *Paragon of Duty *Lord of Dance
Posts: 123
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Post by Shosuro Kyo on Oct 13, 2011 6:37:59 GMT -5
Kyo opened both his eyes and took in the woman before him. He watched the way she held herself, the gentle movement of her hands and eyes, and a variety of other minute details. She was a fairly good actor, one of the better ones he had seen. She held herself very near to what a typical Scorpion Clan courtier hold themselves.
Yet he was able to tell that she was at the very least a kabuki actor. More likely there was more because she has a master. Growing up in Shiro no Sosuro helped tremendously and finding out who was in disguise. Judging from the outfit though, the master was a man in pretty good standing, so Kyo decided he'd play along for now.
That would depend, courtier-san. On the task your master has for me.
Stands up and watches the woman, waiting to see what her next move will be.
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Shosuro Honzo
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Shosuro Daimyo * Ninja* "Master of Shadows"* Loyal * Unique
Posts: 194
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Post by Shosuro Honzo on Oct 13, 2011 16:45:37 GMT -5
Her smile beneath the veil showed sharp, white teeth. She used her eyes seductively as she closed them ever so slowly and reopened them. "My master wishes to meet with you to discuss that very thing. Are you willing to answer his summons?" She said, every word dripping with mystique. "I assure you, it'll be worth your while..."
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Shosuro Kotaro
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Loyal *Poison Master * Samurai
Posts: 101
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Post by Shosuro Kotaro on Oct 13, 2011 18:23:22 GMT -5
The servant handed the final package to the Master of the Shosuro Gardens. Shosuro Kotaro placed this final pouch into the saddle bag as he prepared for his journey to Kyuden Bayushi. He had returned too late Shiro no Shosuro to mix a formula that might have saved Senshi-sama's arm. He spent a further two days mixing several remedies he had hoped might work to save the arm. Now all he could hope for was to aid in the healing of the Scorpion Champion. No other riders were to travel with him. He would succeed or fail on his own. And if he failed....it would be the second time in recent history he will have failed his clan and champion. "I will send word if I require anything more from the gardens," he said flatly. His usual cheerful voice lacked any humor these past few days. The servants nodded. No words were spoken. None needed to be said. Everyone knew the gravity of the situation. Kotaro mounted the horse, the fastest in the castle. With the aid of a shugenja spell he hoped to be at his destination within a few hours. He gave the horse a sharp kick and began a journey that would give him more time to contemplate his place in the clan, his accomplishments and failures.
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Shosuro Kyo
Scorpion Clan
*Magistrate *Loyal *Paragon of Duty *Lord of Dance
Posts: 123
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Post by Shosuro Kyo on Oct 13, 2011 21:13:01 GMT -5
He debated it in his head for quite a bit of time. He would like to stay here where he might be needed at a moments notice, yet here was something else he could be doing that might be doing that might be of aid to his champion as well. Even if it wasn't, he was a master of something at least.
Kyo nodded to the courtier after a few minutes time. Deciding that he would at least hear the deal then decide whether or not it was worth his time and if it best suited the current needs of the Scorpion.
Very well courtier-san, I will go with you and at the very least hear what your master has to say and what his needs are.
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Shosuro Honzo
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Shosuro Daimyo * Ninja* "Master of Shadows"* Loyal * Unique
Posts: 194
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Post by Shosuro Honzo on Oct 13, 2011 22:29:01 GMT -5
"A wise choice, Kyo-san. But it is not the appointed hour. Meet me at the hour of the wolf at The Black Orchid geisha house. Speak these words very clearly to the madam of the house: 'Even the brightest lantern still creates shadows'. If she responds, 'Without light, there are no shadows', it is safe to meet and you will be admitted. If she responds, 'without a lantern, all turns to darkness', then you have been followed or it is not safe. And listen for the song of the nightingale. If you hear it, run...do not look back. You are in mortal danger. We will protect you." With that she bowed andwalked off without another word. Mystique indeed.
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Post by Soshi Kiso on Oct 14, 2011 0:23:05 GMT -5
Kiso walked down the hall to the quarters of Yogo Hiro solemnly. He knew it was late by the candles that lit the halls instead of the sun above. He thought about giving the old man time to sleep, but duty called.
He wasn't sure the last time the man had been out of the Scorpion border, but he knew he would need his help on the road ahead. He had grown accustom to taking on tasks himself, but given the gravity of the quest, more heads then one would prevail. A young apprentice stood vigil outside the Yogo Daimyo's Quarters who had the blessing to keep a straight face at the ragged sight of Kiso coming toward her.
The hour is late, but I must speak to Yogo-sama.
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Shosuro Kyo
Scorpion Clan
*Magistrate *Loyal *Paragon of Duty *Lord of Dance
Posts: 123
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Post by Shosuro Kyo on Oct 14, 2011 9:05:31 GMT -5
Kyo walks along the streets as the hour of wolf draws near. He makes his way through the area taking paths known to few people outside the Shosuro family. Kyo makes his way slowly up to The Black Orchid.
He walks in and is greeted by the madam of the house. He nods to her and says very clearly. Even the brightest lantern still creates shadows.
He watched her closely waiting for a response.
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Shosuro Kotaro
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Loyal *Poison Master * Samurai
Posts: 101
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Post by Shosuro Kotaro on Oct 14, 2011 18:13:50 GMT -5
It had bee a long ride, but made significantly shorter thanks to a shugenja spell. Shosuro Kotaro had had ample time to reflect on his recent shortcomings. His failure to assassinate the Pheonix ambassador, his failure to return in time to help save Senshi-sama's arm. Now his resolve was absolute. He would not allow himself to fail again. He would be a master of his craft in all respects and never fail his clan again. The lone rider pulled his horse to a stop just short of the Bayushi Samurai guarding the gates of the castle. He presented his personal chop to the closest guard without a word. The guard looked it over and bowed quickly as he returned the device to the Shosuro. "You are expected, Kotaro-san," the guard said. "I need to get this medicine to Haruka-sama quickly," Shosouro Kotaro replied from behind his black silk mask. Another samurai exited from the castle and approached the group. "I am here to escort you to where you are needed, Shosuro Kotaro-san." Kotaro nodded, dismounted his horse and retrieved the bundle of medicine packets from the saddlebag. A servant approached and offered to carry them, but Kotaro waved him off. "I will be the one to deliver these. No other shall take the blame for any of my failures ever again." With that, the two men set off.
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Yogo Hiro
Ronin
Daimyo * Shugenja * Air * Water * Ward Master * Hisas RP Yogo Alt.
Posts: 12
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Post by Yogo Hiro on Oct 14, 2011 21:09:32 GMT -5
Yogo Aki bowed deeply to Kiso, Of course Soshi-sama! He has been expecting you. Please follow me.
Aki led the Soshi Daimyo down a short hallway and higher into a tower. He opened a large double door and stepped aside to let Kiso step inside. To anyone who didnt know what had happened the last few days, they would think Hiro was a maho-tsukai. Blood from the failed experiments covered the walls and floor, there were even slashes of crimson across the ceiling. Geometric patters were drawn on the floors and walls; books and scrolls were scattered everywhere. The place was something out of a nightmare, and for many these last few days, it was just that. Yogo Hiro was hunched over a desk pouring over some sort of scroll.
I SAID NOT TO DISTURB ME! his shout reverberated off the walls. He didnt turn around.
Unless it is Soshi-sama, Aki responded, unflinching, and it is Soshi-sama.
Hiro turned, See to your oders, Aki. He muttered a prayer to the air kami and the door slammed shut. When he looked in Kisos eyes, the Soshi saw his eyes were rimmed with red, it was apparent he hadnt slept and was continuing researching and experimenting his failure. He nodded to a wash basin on a pillar, Wash your hands Kiso, exhaustion overcoming formality, it will help the healing process. I have maps to the location of the temple in Otosan Uchi, and have uncovered a few more references to your father in my own libraries here. Assistants are reading them and will communicate to me any new findings. There are horses, and an ox laden cart being prepared as we speak. Is there anything else you wished to speak of before we left?
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