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Post by Shoju on Nov 14, 2011 10:42:28 GMT -5
As the group prepared, Shoju smiled at Bonfei. Bonfei-san. I would like it if you saw to it that the handmaidens were with us. While I hoped to keep the group traveling smaller, I hope to keep her as comfortable as possible.
Shoju clasped Bonfei on the shoulder and began moving towards his horse. They would be ready to depart within the hour.
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Post by Shoju on Nov 17, 2011 10:05:09 GMT -5
As the group assembled, Shoju surveyed the area. The Snake had done considerable work in the area in a short amount of time. But more would need to be done, even if this were to be just a temporary home. Temporary, as Shoju thought the word, his mind had doubts about how true it would be.
With the group assembled, they began the long trek north. Staying in Crane Lands might afford them some safety as long as they could pass as Hantei Sympathizers. Throughout his time in the Empire, Shoju had procured enough papers that he hoped they could pass undeterred through Crane Lands, and skirt the edge of Phoenix lands all the way to the Plains.
Shoju's plan, rested on people believing that this was in fact, purely a diplomatic mission. A Champion, his Hatamoto, A Shugenja, a Pregnant woman, a few guards and handmaidens was hardly a war party. Even, if people believed the notion that the Snake was somehow still tied to the Spider.
Few travelers could be seen in the beginning parts of the, and it wasn't surprising. With the Crab pushing from South, and the Wars waged, and lost to the North and West, travel was no longer a luxury many would indulge. Sadly, this lack of travel further proved that to put the group in a more noticeable position.
As they began passing into Crane Lands, Shoju's mind was drifting between His former allegiances, and those who had attacked them. The Gaijin Sorcerer had attacked the Monkey and the few Snake who had made their way out of the Shadowlands with them. Thrakhath, the Dark Moto had attacked them as they made way from Candas. The Gaijin, was understandable. Thrakhath on the other hand... He had always been loyal to The Lord of the Spider. His attack on the Snake further reinforced the idea that the Spider had cast the Snake, and its lord aside when they were no longer of any use.
Shoju's mind wandered as Bonfei rode in closer. He studied his Champion's face, and then the face of Tenshi, and then he rode next to Yun began to study Yun. A curious one indeed. Tell me, what brought you to the Snake?
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Zeure
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Post by Zeure on Nov 17, 2011 13:23:37 GMT -5
Yun looked back at Bonfei. Yun was of the opinion that Bonfei was already a measured quantity, a muscle for his lord to exercise and sometimes be exercised independantly for his defense. Yun smiled and began the conversation.
"Ha ha, I suppose that my answer's simplicity will make you question even further, but truly, I came because Shoju-sama is my most direct lord and he had Daigotsu-sama's blessing to do it; for whatever reason. As long as my Champion and my Lord want to embark upon this mission, I will do my best to fulfill their desires. Such is the life of a samurai."
"As to why I came along on this particular trek, well, I have certain talents that I feel may assist Shoju-sama in this leg of the journey. I'm no stranger to courtly settings, I know etiquette and my specialty of magic being in air helps to enhance these things. And, I can hide my taint without jade tea if I have to."
Yun continued to smile. The small wind pushing against them made the robes move and whip around him, but it was pleasant. Kept the horse stink away at any rate.
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Post by Shoju on Nov 17, 2011 14:26:49 GMT -5
Bonfei's expression stayed plain, as he looked back at Yun. One could wonder now why Daigotsu granted leave to one such as Shoju-dono. When it was just the gaijin attack against us, it was dismissed as a rogue attack by a fringe member of the Spider. But, when it was Thrakhath's assault at Candas, I will admit, Even I gave pause.
Bonfei's voice dropped quieter. Thrakhath has been a fierce and loyal supporter of the Lord of the Spider for as long as I can remember, he held his ear even before I ventured to the City of the Lost. Why would Daigotsu give leave to a group of people who looked to Shoju for guidance only to send his most trusted after him? Bonfei's face tried to mask his worry, but failed. Could it be that Daigotsu cut us loose to simply cull the Spider, and then silence those who were not desirable? Bonfei shook his head I thought it a paranoid idea at first, but... The more that I see what has transpired, the more I can't help but agree.
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Zeure
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Post by Zeure on Nov 17, 2011 14:34:51 GMT -5
Yun shrugged.
"Bonfei-san, there is no point in worrying about such things. Daigotsu-sama is immeasurably powerful. If he wanted us dead he we would be dead. I was there on that boat, just as you were, and it seemed to me that Thrakhath had his own reasons for attacking. The words that were exchanged between him and Shoju-sama made that clear to me. Now, would Daigotsu-sama care that Thrakhath attacked us? Probably not, but did he send him against us? I think not."
Yun's eyes moved to Shoju and then back to Bonfei.
"And besides that, it doesn't matter anymore anyways. We are far removed from that place and it's influence now. Shoju-sama has led us to a new place. A place we can call our own, if the empire will let us."
He glanced downwards and sighed.
"Not that I think they will. But I will try as hard as I can to make it happen."
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Post by Shoju on Nov 21, 2011 12:39:16 GMT -5
Bonfei sighed. Yun was right, in a way. The phoenix and the Ox would never allow the Snake to reclaim their lands without force now. Shoju-sama has made several allies, I think some in the Empire see the honor in his actions. But, I wonder if they outnumber those who don't, or even if they are enough to show the need for patience.
Shoju rode in silence, his mind pouring over the thoughts and plans for once they reach the plains. He knew that Tenshi could hear his thoughts. At this point, hers was the only opinion that he cared for. The plan seemed simple enough. Enter the Plains from the Phoenix side, and move towards the encampment of the Ox Clan, and attempt to broker peace with them. They needn't see it as the loss of territory, And Shoju was willing to open his clan to teach young Morito in the ways of the Kami. He even hoped to include the Monastic Order in his plans. As night began to fall, Shoju sighed. Now would be the best time to make camp for the night. We need to keep ourselves hidden for now. Yun-san, could you scout for a camp site for us?
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Bayushi Haruka
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Nov 21, 2011 12:53:13 GMT -5
Tenshi had remained rather quiet through all of their discussion, her eyes distant as she took in his thoughts and consideration. His understanding of the Spider and their capabilities as well as his allies all made her really wonder the mindset of the empire. Such information did not startle her in the least, but otherwise she did not disagree with Shoju's assessment of the situation. However battle plans would have to wait until the battlefield was before her.
The air was crisp, but the taint still made it hard to feel the real bite of it anymore. The only thought that really permiated Tenshi's mind was the constant squirm of life within her. It seemed as though the child was already near term, and the sheer shock from the nearness of it made her naturally a bit uneasy though she wouldn't flinch a bit.
It was exactly that time of night that Shoju felt the familiar warm hum of the gaijin trinket in his pocket. It seemed as though the sister of Tenshi needed to speak with him again. Tenshi looked to Shoju almost knowingly. "It is a good time to make camp." Ever awkward with so few words to contribute as always in the presence of so many.
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Zeure
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Post by Zeure on Nov 21, 2011 14:00:42 GMT -5
Yun shook his head in agreement. "Yeah, it's about time that I should be able to relay your wishes to....that person anyways. I'll go scouting and I'll come back to direct the group."
He pulled out a scroll and spoke a few words quietly. Then he handed the reigns of his horse to Bonfei and leapt out of the saddle into the air. The gentle breeze of the night air was comforting. Soon he would be able to have another conversation with Haruka. He wondered if anything had changed on her end these past days.
Off in the distance Yun saw that there were several fires burning in what must be an Ox encampment. If they roved the plains several times every day as he would have expected from his earlier times watching this area, it wouldn't be any surprise to him that they were there and none of the Ox should be expecting the snake to slither in.
There was an outcropping of rocks that would shade their camp from the Ox patrol's watchmen, and provide a place for them to be protected on two sides from anything else so he decided that this was probably the best place he would find and began to make his way back to the group.
Along the way he took note of several pieces of the surrounding terrain that might be used as markers for future snake movement. Not everyone would be traveling with Shoju-sama or myself, he thought, so they might need the extra direction. A rough map began to sketch itself in his head. He dropped down low enough to the group and bowed, mid air, to Shoju.
"Lord, I have found a place that would be suitable. It is protected on two sides by high rocks, and we'll be shielded from the sight of the Ox patrols that are near our area. It is *he points* that direction, about another half-mile. It is very obvious."
He "layed down" on the air currents he was riding and just sauntered along with the rest of the group. Staying within earshot and directing the group as necessary.
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Post by Shoju on Nov 22, 2011 10:48:27 GMT -5
Thank you Yun-san. Shoju replied.
Setting up Camp was a simple enough task, and was carried out by all involved. All of the accomodations had a uniformity to them. Nothing stood out as different from another, a tactic Shoju hoped, would keep them hidden in plain sight.
After Camp was set up, Shoju stood and helped Tenshi to her feet. Tenshi and I have some preparations to attend to, If you will excuse us. Shoju bowed slightly as he turned away from the group, and walked over to Bonfei, whispering in his ear. Bonfei nodded, followed Tenshi and Shoju to their tent, and stopped outside after they had entered. He stood and ate a rice ball casually, watching the few others in the camp mill about.
Inside the tent
Shoju removed the Gaijin Crystal from his pocket. It thrummed in his hand, and had a familiar glow. Shoju turned to Tenshi Your sister requests an audience. Curious timing I expect.
Shoju walked over and sat on a cushion and set the crystal on another cushion. Shoju cursed traveling light briefly. Of all the things he missed, his table would be missed the most. He closed his eyes, and made a slight gesture with his hand. As he opened his eyes, the eye of the crystal did as well. Greetings, Haruka-san. To what I do owe the pleasure?
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Bayushi Haruka
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Nov 22, 2011 19:22:23 GMT -5
Appearing as always in her natural garb, but with the addition of the lion pelt cloak resting the lion's head over her shoulder. Unarmored and relaxed, she had her mask in place. Haruka gave a light courteous bow to him as if she were sat before him, the intimate inner chambers of the Champion's quarters laid out before his view through the crystal.
"I am so sorry to have to disturb you on such short notice, Shoju-san. I had took your words to heart from when we last spoke, but as I meditated on your goals for the Snake Clan some questions came to mind that I needed to ask of you."
Her stance was relaxed and reserved, so it seemed she was in no danger of having her conversation intruded upon. A rare blessing for Haruka in this situation, her tone was a bit sweeter than usual. She hoped this would smooth out the conversation all the more.
"That is if you don't mind of course, Shoju-san. I only wish to aid your cause."
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Post by Shoju on Nov 22, 2011 21:00:01 GMT -5
Shoju smiled, and leaned back slightly. I must say Haruka-san, since last we talked, I have found that my situation has become more precarious. The Lord of the Spider allowed me my leave to seek my place in the world, but then sent his most trusted lieutenant to destroy us as we attempted to leave. Shoju's mind flitted back to the Undead whom found himself overcome by Thrakhath in the final battle. His body and actions not his own. Shoju could see the mind of the man inside his body, watching as if he were watching another body.
He shook his mind clear of such things. I appreciate any help that you can offer Haruka-san. I will answer any questions as honest, and as truthful as I can. You, have proven your trustworthyness tenfold to me.
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Bayushi Haruka
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Nov 22, 2011 22:00:11 GMT -5
Haruka held her nerve, "It seems your list of allies is considerably slim then." She stroked her hand through her long dark hair in contemplation, as if considering something.
Tenshi however grew displeased at Haruka. Her hostility was natural of course but that didn't stop her from staring at the crystal just out of sight with a fiery hatred for her sister. She couldn't place it but she knew Haruka was up to something, she was always up to something.
"Well Shoju-san, I will need to move swiftly to ensure that my support can be of use for you. But in order to do so I will need to know where you are and what forces you still have remaining with you. I imagine your forces suffered quite the battle.." Haruka let her last thought linger as she had never been so forward about offering direct assistance before. Haruka never flinched though.
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Post by Shoju on Nov 22, 2011 22:17:43 GMT -5
Shoju winced at the thought of having few allies, but smiled at Haruka's offer. Well, my allies are thin indeed, but I do count The former Monkey Clan Champion among them. I have even entrusted him with the safe guarding of the single greatest asset the Snake have. Shoju was curious, Haruka had never been so direct in her involvement. Had she not gone to extraordinary lengths to give Shoju one of her children to keep safe, he might be curious.
As for my whereabouts, I and my personal retinue are on the edges of the Dragon Heart Plains. Soon, I hope to meet with the Ox Clan Representatives. It is the first in what I hope will be very fruitful negotiations. Shoju exhaled. You are right, the Snake Clan suffered at the hands of the Spider's ambush, and the Gaijin who attacked them while they moved with the Monkey. And to that end, the location of the Snake Clan, is a closely guarded secret, held only by members the Tamihei, and one who risked much to spirit us to from the maws of the Shadowlands. Shoju shifted slightly I hope you understand Haruka-san, after the suffering those who have followed me have endured, I must ensure the safety of those who put their faith in me.
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Bayushi Haruka
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Nov 22, 2011 22:47:36 GMT -5
Haruka bowed her head in reverence. "I am sorry to hear that they suffered, and my prayers will be with their souls as well as yours, Shoju-san."
Her gaze leveled to him again, keeping it slightly lowered, slightly averted while her eyes fixated intensely on something below where the crystal lay on the desk. A quiet shuffle of one of her hands brought a brush into view as she seemed to take note of their position on a map. Her desire to locate and meet them seemed all truer with the fact that she was preparing to mobilize as the information came to her.
"You needn't worry for my sake though. My plans have all been carefully managed with those that I have drawn close to me." She gently placed the brush away with a slight pause. "I suppose the rest of the information matters little, for it does not matter the size of your forces for now, I will be bringing what I can to ensure that my support joins your group. Again I apologize for taxing you during this clearly distressing time, but I hope that my assistance will be the good news that helps propel things in the.. right direction."
Her eyes squinted as she smiled widely, delighted.
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Zeure
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Post by Zeure on Nov 23, 2011 1:07:46 GMT -5
Meanwhile in the tent that was assigned to Yun, an all too familiar ritual had been set. The single candle was burning, the silver chain was placed in a circle around the cushion where Yun would sit. These were supplies that had seen some use and Yun had bought that type of candle so many times the exact number escaped him as he thought about it. And I have more to contact than I would wish tonight, but...duty before pleasure I suppose.Yun sat himself down on a different cushion, so that the ritual would not be focused on his current target, in fact, he doubted that his current target slept overmuch, if at all. The scroll unfurled, Yun began praying in an attempt to communicate with someone he had only had passing words with before. Across the distance of the empire, almost literally to the other corner he sought for the one who he had to question to know the true motivations of. Knock knock, you terrible thing you[OOC]Follow here: Clicky! [/OOC]
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