Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star_red.png)
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
|
Post by Agasha Shodai on Nov 30, 2011 16:04:49 GMT -5
Agasha Shodai, Void Master of the Phoenix Clan, seemed to appear in mid-stride from thin air as he emerged from the invisible to non-Ishiken eyes Voidwalk pathway.
Most most Rokugani, the thought of a war shugenja - especially a Phoenix war shugenja - made them think of a samurai out of place in anything but the simple robes the priest caste of the Empire wore.
Agasha Shodai, however, looked as if he'd been born for battle.
He wore crimson medium-weight red armor with a flame-pattern motif had been custom-made - by the shugenja's own hand, no less - in the forges of Kyuden Agasha and infused with magics that could result in it one day becoming a nemuranai of its own, though it had not yet occurred. The master shugenja wore a white-hilted katana - a rare Crystal Katana that had been a gift from the Kuroiban of Senshi's Clan - at his left hip and a naginata - specifically, the nemuranai known as the Isawa Naginata; the weapon of the Elemental Council - strapped to his back.
The Void Master's appearance was drastically different than he had the last time Senshi had seen him at Ryoko Owari Toshi. There, the Void Master was primped and polished as befitted the social situation. Now, with his mostly-white hair tied up in a bun under his helmet and bedecked in full battle dress, he appeared to be a man ready to fight a war; unsurprising as he'd just traveled from the command tent of the Emerald Champion at the assault on Crossroads Castle.
Shodai glanced around and spotted Senshi, giving his social equal - the Phoenix Clan were the oddities in the Empire in that they had 6 people to handle the roles that were Senshi's job alone in the Scorpion Clan - a respectful nod. "Senshi-san; welcome to Phoenix territory."[/b]
|
|
Bayushi Senshi
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Clan Champion * Samurai * Kensai * Experienced * Loyal * Unique
Posts: 1,891
|
Post by Bayushi Senshi on Nov 30, 2011 20:46:27 GMT -5
Senshi, nodded back but made no move to step away from the horse. He beckoned for Shodai to approach, hoping that the other visitor did not notice anything. When Shodai was close enough so as their conversation would not be overheard, Senshi spoke.
"Shodai san, good to see you. And good that you are ready for a fight. I have tracked Shoju down, though at this juncture I am unsure if it would be wise to try and take him out of the picture entirely. Truth be told I am here for another reason. A woman named Tenshi travels in Shoju's company, she was, in life, my wife's sister. She killed Haruka's family, and I intend to end her existence living or not... in my state however, I do not think I will be able to kill her while she is under Shoju's guard."
He turned to look over Riku, "Its your call what you want to do about the taint so close to your home, he seems to be looking to move in... but I need you at least to keep Shoju distracted while I see justice for the slain Utaku family. They are expecting aid, and not an ambush, will you be prepared to help?"
Senshi watched as his guard Odamitsu, stalled the gentleman, doing a good job of it too. He was large enough to even obstruct a great deal of view.
|
|
|
Post by Shoju on Dec 1, 2011 9:30:54 GMT -5
Bonfei was relaxed, and as calm as could be. He thought he noticed movement deeper in the camp, but couldn't see anything without looking too obvious, and thought he had heard voices, but couldn't make anything out. His patience was starting to wear thin though. This Bushi was stalling him for some reason, but he couldn't make out what on earth the problem could be. Bonfei decided to try a new tactic.
Bayushi-san, My lord has sent me to come and meet with the Scorpion envoy, and to ensure that you are made aware of our location. As best I can tell Shoju-sama has placed wards around it to keep the position safe and secure, meaning that an escort would be needed to enter the encampment. Bonfei looked past the bushi and back to him. Have you an idea of when you will be ready to meet with Shoju-sama?
|
|
Bayushi Senshi
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Clan Champion * Samurai * Kensai * Experienced * Loyal * Unique
Posts: 1,891
|
Post by Bayushi Senshi on Dec 1, 2011 9:58:20 GMT -5
Odamitsu's eyes went wide, "Oh! Of course! Here we are chatting away like old friends and I forget my place entirely, please forgive me Tamihei sama" He bows, only taking his time a hair of a second longer. Then in one last delaying tactic, he adds in a whisper, "My apologies, but I delay out of curiosity. It seems so odd to me that even harboring the taint your clan has managed to do so much. I wished only to learn more before I met all of you. It is not my place to do so however." He kept his head low, awaiting a reply.
|
|
|
Post by Shoju on Dec 1, 2011 10:09:50 GMT -5
Bonfei smiled at Odamitsu. The chance to discuss the Snake Clan, and it's goals was the perfect way to distract him. The Snake Clan finds it regrettable that we have such a sullied immediate history. But over time, we hope to shed the taint the way the great snake sheds its old and damaged skin, revealing a new skin underneath. We don't wish for anyone to contract the dark mark of the Shadowlands. But on the other hand, we aren't so blind to things to purely push them aside. Bonfei was proud of his new found clan. He looked down at his heart, and the new mon that Shoju had commissioned for the Snake clan. You see, the Snake Clan know all too well the power that lies within abusing artforms one does not understand. We know the immediate power of Maho, and we know the corruption inherent in it. We also know that Maho was once the magic of the great Isawa, and we vow to search tirelessly for the way to return it to that once proud heritage.
Bonfei held up his hands, and looked at the calluses present on them, and the lack of scarring on his arms. Not all Snake clan members are allowed, or capable even, of such tasks like this research. I am but a Samurai, who clings to the shreds of honor of my previous life, and the prospect Shoju-sama has given me to restoring my honor. Bonfei looked back at the Scorpion. One day, The Empire will see the Snake Clan in an better light. Maybe not the entire empire, but those who understand that loyalty, duty, and the protection of the Son of Heaven come at a price, and only those who have payed the price can understand it.
Bonfei looked prouder, and happier than he had at any time since reaching the Scorpion Camp. It was obvious that he believed every word he said. He believed that the Snake Clan would succeed.
|
|
Khamul
Spider Clan
Monk - Kensei - Sensei of the Venomous Shrine
Posts: 70
|
Post by Khamul on Dec 1, 2011 16:09:22 GMT -5
Khamul and his followers stood on the outskirts of the hidden position that he had chosen for the shrine to Isawa Chuda, looking out toward the plains and the ruined city. Though he had continued their training, indeed he had deemed several of the peasents worthy of not only budoka status but full brotherhood among the existing monks, since the arrival of the Ox and Phoenix Khamul had been even more terse and unpredictable than usual and those not in his inner circle, who seemed to act out his will without command, had learned to no longer address their sensei without first being addressed by him. Now he had called them all to the edge of small area they thought of as home, and they waited expectantly for his latest lesson. Finally, Khamul spoke.
The lord of the Snake is blind. He has yet to learn the most difficult lesson before attaining perfection. Kourako, glancing at one of the budoka what do you see? motioning toward the view before them.
The plains and the ruins where the armies of the Phoenix and Ox are gathered sensei.
Khamul peered at her dangerously. And?
Kourako paled; she knew her place, and maybe even her life, depended on her next answer. She looked once more, and remembering her lessens, she steeled herself and answered firmly. A trap sensei.
Khamul calmly returned his gaze to the vista before them. Indeed sister Kourako. A trap designed to catch a snake. At this, the other budoka glanced at her with envy; she had been elevated to equality with the monks.
Khamul turned to them. Prepare yourselves, all of you. It seems that we and our "patrons" will soon be tested. Turning to Kourako Come with me, I have chosen you for a gift and special instruction before we leave.
Kourako bowed low. Hai sensei!
|
|
|
Post by Shoju on Dec 2, 2011 10:20:46 GMT -5
Back at the Snake 'camp'
Shoju was beginnig to pace. He had sent Bonfei to meet with the Scorpion, Yun had left to protect Haruka, meaning that the handmaidens, Tenshi, and the 2 guards were all that was left in the camp. He was beginning to curse his lack of vision. He should have marched with an army. It would have made the diplomacy more strained, but he was beginning to think that the diplomacy was going to be strained anyways.
As he paced his tent, he remembered the enigmatic monk who had come to visit him shortly after he had receded from the Spider. The order of Venom He wondered if Khamul had made his home on the plans and was thriving. There is only one way I can find out eh? Shoju thought.
He stopped pacing and sat down on a cushion. He closed his eyes, and began the incantations to summon an air kami. Like dandelion seeds on the winds, his words left his mouth, searching for Khamul. Hopefully, he would receive a reply to his simple question. How fares the Order of Venom?
|
|
Khamul
Spider Clan
Monk - Kensei - Sensei of the Venomous Shrine
Posts: 70
|
Post by Khamul on Dec 2, 2011 17:04:44 GMT -5
At the Snake Camp
Time passed far too slowly it seemed. After what felt like an age, Shoju finally gave up on receiving word from the strange monk. Clearly his message was not received; either Khamul was dead or had simply ignored the kami Shoju had sent. Or so it seemed... Just then, one of the guards spoke from just outside the tent flaps.
Pardon the interruption Shoju-dono, but there is a sohei here, demanding to speak with you, and only you. What shall I tell her?
(ooc: Sorry for speaking on Shoju's behalf here, but it was the only way I could think of to bring this scene to where it needed to be. Let me know if you don't like it, and I'll change it accordingly.)
|
|
|
Post by Shoju on Dec 2, 2011 17:49:18 GMT -5
{OOC} You did just fine.
Shoju stood and straightened his robes. Khamul isn't coming [/color] was the only thought he could fathom at that moment. Show her in. Shoju stood and waited, preparing for the Sohei. He wondered what news would be brought.
|
|
Bayushi Senshi
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Clan Champion * Samurai * Kensai * Experienced * Loyal * Unique
Posts: 1,891
|
Post by Bayushi Senshi on Dec 3, 2011 10:58:51 GMT -5
(ooc: I was waiting on a reply from Shodai before I continued)
|
|
Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star_red.png)
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
|
Post by Agasha Shodai on Dec 4, 2011 0:04:56 GMT -5
OOC: Sorry for the delay; insanely busy week IRL...
Agasha Shodai nodded to the Scorpion Clan champion. "I agree with regards to Shoju: if only because - and it pains me to say this - with his claim to be the heir of Chuda Tamihei and these people the Snake Clan, we must take such claims at face value lest we be accused of making war upon a Minor Clan on land that is of contested ownership... Until the Son of Heavens rules that his words are as spurious and corrupt as the air Shoju breathes, at least."
"Between now and then, however, the Ox Clan believes that they can take more of my Clan's territory because the Phoenix have left the Dragon Heart Plains fallow. They believe that since we aren't using it, it should be theirs. What they fail to realize is that there is still a potent source of corruption from the ruins of Shiro Chuda. The Council has decided that since we must focus on dealing with Kaneka, we will let the Ox try their hand at dealing with the Plains."
"We have, however, brokered a deal to allow a small unit of Kazuma-dono's own troops to occupy Shiro Chuda. It would be remiss of us to allow the bushi-heavy Ox to let the dangers of the Plains get TOO out of control, so our forces remain on standby to deal with anything they can't handle. Should such a thing happen, the Emperor will, undoubtedly, censure the Ox for their trespass."[/b]
Agasha Shodai chuckled and shook his head. "Forgive my digression Senshi-san... You are here to avenge the family of that charming wife of yours; not hear me prattle on about politics."[/b]
The Void Master contemplated Senshi's covered hand for a brief instant; he'd heard the stories of how the son of Bayushi had sacrificed it as a gesture of pennance for his Clan's - as well as his own - delay in joining the true Emperor's side. It was a wound willingly taken to restore one's honor and one, though the necessity requiring it and the pain Senshi had suffered was regretable, Shodai felt a grim joy at the sight of it... Not because he disliked the man before him but rather because it would have been a shame to have the children of the Twin Kami - Shiba and Bayushi - at each other's throats trying to determine who's belief and determination as to who the Emperor should be was stronger.
Shodai nodded towards the stump of Senshi's hand. "I see that your scouts have not yet located the legendary Jade Hand for you..."[/b] The Void Master pulled the corner of his mouth into a slight smile. To have a outsider know of such a secret of the Master of Secrets, no less, would likely be slightly off-putting. "And before you waste your time tearing apart your court to locate a ficticous spy that let the word out about such a mission, I learned of it through divination from Tengoku. I can't prove it, but I suspect Kami Bayushi was rather proud of the sacrifice you made and wanted to get you some help from an ally that you might not have otherwise reached out to..."[/b]
The Void Master reached into a scroll satchel at his hip. "I unfortunately could not find the original Jade Hand; it was last seen in the possession of Hida Yakumo when he ascended to the Celestial Heavens to assist Lady Amaterasu's jigai and became Lord Sun. Whether he left it here in Ningen-do or wears it still is unknown. However..."[/b]
He pulled out a scroll the thickness of a man's wrist and secured with the mon of the Phoenix Clan's Elemental Council. "Contained within this scroll are a set of plans that the crysteel sandsmiths of the Kuroiban should be able to use to craft a fully articulated crystal glove."
"There is also a set of incantations that Soshi Kiso-san - along with any shugenja you trust - can use to infuse the divine energies of Tengoku into the glove. Properly cast, the spells should transform it into a Crystal Hand - identical in every way to the Jade Hand, save for it's principal material - for you to use.[/b]
Shodai presented the scroll to Senshi. "The Council wishes you to have this as a token of our respect for you and your Clan."
"Further, I have managed to devise a spell that will temporarily give you a functional hand; long enough to allow you to be at your best to avenge Haruka-san's family, at least."[/b] Shodai paused. "Should you wish to accept it, of course."[/b]
|
|
Bayushi Senshi
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Clan Champion * Samurai * Kensai * Experienced * Loyal * Unique
Posts: 1,891
|
Post by Bayushi Senshi on Dec 4, 2011 8:39:42 GMT -5
Senshi cocked an eyebrow at the man, he was impressed. "You just happened to have the scrolls with you? I guess I can understand the delay in your arrival then. And it seems your information is off just enough..." Senshi shifted, and pulled the right sleeve up, exposing the gravity of his wound. He had lost his arm just below the shoulder. "Kiso san is not far from here seeking a relic of his father's creation... an arm. The jade hand, though I would love to be in the possession of such, its location is unknown to me. Should Kiso san fail however, I will be sure to give this scroll special consideration."
Senshi turned to look over the horse again, watching to see if their other visitor would be a problem. "We should get moving, do not hold back, Shodai san. They can make no claim to the snake clan, only the spider, murderers, and as thieves of black scrolls. How long will this spell of yours take?"
|
|
Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star_red.png)
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
|
Post by Agasha Shodai on Dec 4, 2011 12:15:21 GMT -5
"Well, our artificers had just finished that final scroll there when we recieved word that our troops had finished amassing at the Valley of Two Generals. The Council, as a gesture that we stand by the decision to go to war, marched with our men to Crossroads Castle, where I was then bogged down in the politics of who would lead the Phoenix forces. I'd hoped to be able to run into you there, but you'd already returned to mobilize your troops to deal with the Shadowlands incursion and back up the Crab."[/b] He shrugged. "So I held onto it. I figured that you'd find Shoju sooner or later and would call on me. I prefer to be prepared for nearly everything... When I can be, at least. A lesson I learned from the time I spent with your own Kuroiban."[/b]
Shodai took a longer look at the wound; it was far worse than he'd heard. But he gestured to the scroll. "While our plans only go as far as the hand, I know that your Clan has some very skilled artificer-specialist shugenja. If they study the plans, I'm sure they'll grasp the principals behind the basic design and be able to expand upon it to make a full arm. And even should Kiso-san find his father's relic for you, I suspect that adding a Crystal Hand on top of it would certainly be useful."[/b]
Agasha paused. "But just so you know, there are components of the transmutation spell that will call on the powers of the Fortunes themselves. Make sure you have the design perfected before your shugenja cast the spells: Tengoku will only allow for one Crystal Hand to be created. The spell will not work a second time. As for the spell for a temporary arm..."[/b]
The Void Master slipped the Isawa Naginata off his back, taking hold of the weapon with one hand so the nemuranai's power could flow into him. He spoke softly, getting the hint that there was an unwelcome visitor nearby. "Spirits of the Earth, upon which we stand and give our bodies substance... Spirits of the Water, which give our bodies fluidity... Spirits of Fire, which provide us the inner heat that warms our bodies... And balanced through the power of the Void, I call upon the to meet our needs. Multi-Element Art, Limb Replacement."[/b]
Agasha Shodai pointed at Bayushi Senshi's damaged arm. At his feet, the earth began to bubble as the Water and Fire kamis interacted with the ground, forming a warm mud. The mud rose from the ground, like the tendril of an octopus and touched the point of amputation. As it did so, the mud's outer layer hardened to a rock-like consistency which expanded down until it formed a rudimentary elbow, wrist, and five fingers. As the fingers were completed, the remaining tendril sank back to the earth and became dry ground once more.
The Void Master nodded to the arm as he returned the Naginata to his back. "It is done, but It won't last longer than a day or two. Long enough to seek out the killer of Haruka's family and dispatch her, though. Also, it won't be as responsive as your true arm was and cannot transmit sensations like touch, but it will allow you to wield a weapon or put some extra strength behind the strike of a katana. But give it a try; it'll take a few moments of practice before you'll be comfortable with it."[/b]
|
|
Bayushi Senshi
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Clan Champion * Samurai * Kensai * Experienced * Loyal * Unique
Posts: 1,891
|
Post by Bayushi Senshi on Dec 4, 2011 18:25:17 GMT -5
Senshi clenched his new earth fingers into a fist, getting a feel for the responsiveness. He stretched, and took a posture require balance with both arms outstretched. It felt right, he was pleased with the result. But most importantly he realized he had an element of stealth added. with two arms he would be able to get even closer to the enemy without being recognized, meaning they could hold their facade until they were right at their enemy's throat.
Senshi smiled at Shodai, "Domo arigato, Shodai san." Senshi bowed with a grin, then stepped clear of Riku, covering his unique arm with his sleeve. Walking up to Odamitsu and whispering in his ear. The guard turned back to the Snake.
"Good news, honored guest. Our charge has decided not to wait till tomorrow morning to meet, would you show our delegation the way to the Snake camp?"
Senshi maintaining the image of just another Bayushi guard did not stay but then walked back, bowing to the 'superior' courtier who stood up and started clamoring orders to the camp to make ready for travel. The scorpion champion sauntered back over to Shodai. Then whispered, "You have helped me maintain an element of surprise, on our travel be sure to stay just out of sight of the taint spawn who is showing us the way. I'm sure you are more then capable." He winked then mounted his wife's horse.
|
|
|
Post by Shoju on Dec 4, 2011 19:17:32 GMT -5
[edit] Since the conversation carried on at the camp after this post (not a problem at all) I'm moving this post to a place where it would be more..... "correct" [/edit]
|
|