Post by Zeure on Dec 23, 2011 0:57:02 GMT -5
Hello, and welcome to the next edition of our Interviews with the Stars series. This time we are proud to bring you a riveting interview of the current Crane Clane Regent, Daidoji Fitsu. A transcript of that interview follows:
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Zeure
Ok!
Welcome to the Interview process, it is a pleasure to have you sir!
We're coming to you LIVE from Shiro Daidoji and we’re here with Daidoji Fitsu, the esteemed Crane Clane Regent!
I’m your host, Zeure and we are ready to get this thing ROCKING!
How are you doing this evening, Fitsu-sama?
Daidoji Fitsu
I'm doing fine! Just trying nurse a sick wife.
Zeure
Good man, love those women, am I right?
Daidoji Fitsu
Absolutely.
Zeure
Well, we'll just jump right in then. Similar to the previous interview, I had a lot of people questioning your character, who, to all appearances to those who do not know you (like me) seems shrouded in mystery. So, could you please tell us a little bit about your character and any NPCs or Alts you have running around.
Daidoji Fitsu
Alts and NPCs are easy, since I don't currently have any. I've done a few things in the past with random Daidoji, but I haven't kept any of them around after more than one encounter.
Fitsu himself is a bit more difficult. He wasn't groomed for the role he's in, and while he strives to fulfill his responsibilities with dignity he doesn't always know the best method to present himself off the battlefield.
Zeure
So, it would be fair to say that he is perhaps lacking in some of the courtly demeanor?
Daidoji Fitsu
It would. He tries to express himself eloquently enough, but he occasionally lacks subtlety. His experience in court prior to taking Regency was limited to his ambassadorial duties to the Crab. He learned much there, but courtly grace...not so much.
Zeure
*said behind a fan* Interesting. The crab courts are not known for this, so I expect no one can blame you. *flaps fan a few times* You say that it was thrust upon you, that you were not groomed for it, what are the circumstances that led to you being champion? (Both IC and OOC would be great)
Daidoji Fitsu
OOC, the Crane were without formal leadership on the forums. Many of the appointed daimyo and the Champion weren't interested or able to partake in the forum rp so we were left in a situation where we had no one of rank to participate in interactions with other clans.
I was nominated for Regency because I had interacted with many of the Champions from other clans and had their respect, and because I had one of the highest Glory scores of any active role players. We had a vote and I was honored to take the title.
IC Our revered Crane Champion, Doji Yoshi, had fallen seriously ill. Being too sick to represent the Clan and manage it, especially in such turbulent times, led him to declaring a regency for Fitsu until his heirs are of age to take the role. Fitsu was already Rikugunshokan, so he had demonstrated the ability to lead samurai and manage resources.
Zeure
So, the crane must have a great deal of trust for you then.
Tie Breaker! What's your favorite fortune, and why!?
Daidoji Fitsu
I'm a big fan of Jurojin. Longevity is hard won, and to be admired. Plus there's a lovely shrine in Crane lands. The fact that the Celestial is fantastic in the card game doesn't hurt.
Zeure
Good one. So, earlier you mentioned having a positive relationship with the other champions, who are your biggest allies, friends and rivals!?
Daidoji Fitsu
I haven't developed any juicy rivalries to share, sadly. I've been trying to bridge gaps more than make them. I've had good dealings with Akodo Tomatsu, so I would count him an ally. Fitsu and Setsuro are close enought that I very nearly married into the Crab prior to becoming Regent.
Zeure
Good, you help the transitions, speaking on marriage. Is there a special someone in Fitsu's life?
Daidoji Fitsu
There is! Although she hasn't been given proper spotlight, his wife Daidoji Suzuka, originally a Hida, had been seen in a few threads. She was a valued commander in the Crab, and was of close rank in Glory to Fitsu when they wed.
Zeure
Wonderful, may Benton bless your marriage. And personally I wish upon you lots of happy chubby babies.
Daidoji Fitsu
Thank you.
Zeure
Speaking on your previous relations with the crab. I am led to believe that when the war broke out you were a staunch supporter of Toturi-sama and then left his service to join alongside your clan in support of Hantei-sama. Has this strained your relationship with the crab? Do you think that this may be a cause for their swift attacks on the crane?
Daidoji Fitsu
I don't think it accelerated there attack plans, but there has been very little communication since the war broke out. So strained is a good word for it. I was a staunch supporter of Toturi when that didn't mean betraying the true Emperor.
I felt that, what Toturi did was within the assigned duties of Shogun. But for any who say the Emperor should have called the banners and led the charge to begin with I would ask, isn't that the Shogun's job?
Zeure
Personally, I agree with you there. The shogun was well within rights and in fact SHOULD have charged the Yobanjin, which he did. But his betrayal in declaring himself emperor was dishonorable. Both because he had already denounced his claim for the throne, and it opposed the son of heaven, may he live forever.
Daidoji Fitsu
Exactly. I was all for Toturi until he made this a war. Yobanjin at the borders SHOULD be beneath the Emperor's notice, and it's every samurai's duty to make that true.
Zeure
So, some quick questions. What is your favorite food? What is your favored Tenet of Bushido? And what would be the perfect gift?
Daidoji Fitsu
My favorite food is sushi, I spent a year cooking at a sushi bar before I started my current career 10 years ago.
My favorite tenet of Bushido...Loyalty. I'm not trying to come off all Scorpion, but they have some good notions on it.
The perfect gift has far more to do with who's giving it then what it is. All things are fleeting, but when given they carry meaning beyond their material worth.
Zeure
Perfectly samurai answer.
Ok, so, one person was very curious about your thoughts on the spider, if Fitsu is aware of them at all.
Daidoji Fitsu
Fitsu isn't aware of them at all beyond rumors of conspiracy. Having spent years on the wall both as a young samurai and then as an ambassador I don't think he would have a high opinion of them in any event.
Zeure
*nods* As expected of most of the citizenry of Rokugan.
Daidoji Fitsu
I think it's worth noting that from a player perspective I recognize their worth. I'm not a fan of the way they've been implemented in story, but this is our game and for better and worse it is largely what we've made it.
Zeure
Some would differ on that opinion. In fact a fair few of the players would say that the spider have been implemented into the story very poorly in the Emerald Empire.
But, that's neither here nor there in relation to your character.
Daidoji Fitsu
True enough. I like the Spider players, if not their clan.
Zeure
I'm sure they all thank you. Ok, HARD-HITTING question round. What is your opinion of the so-called "New Crane Movement"?
And of course, I can elaborate if need be.
Daidoji Fitsu
Please do.
Zeure
The "New Crane Movement" is a group of crane who find that they have a poor image in the empire. An image of ineffectual courtiers hiding behind the emperor or whichever lord is convenient and never getting anything accomplished. They are dedicated to bringing the crane to the fore and making rokugan recognize that the crane are more than posh courtiers.
Daidoji Fitsu
I see nothing wrong with things as you've presented them. We haven't had an Emperor to hide behind in Emerald Empire, so we have to show that we are fully capable samurai in our own right. That doesn't mean the courts have lost their value, however.
Zeure
You said what you said, and Kakita Battou heard "YEAH we have champion support!"
*fist pump*
Daidoji Fitsu
Easier to get forgiveness than permission, no?
Zeure
Haha.
Ok, what would Fitsu's advice be to those who are tainted and are trying to manage their taint?
Daidoji Fitsu
There's a legion with your name on it that serves a very important role. My friend Setsuro can tell you where to find them and pick up your new gear.
Zeure
You've spoken briefly about some of your past experiences, but can you elaborate on your background a little bit more? Perhaps in a timeline fashion?
Daidoji Fitsu
Fitsu was born into a Daidoji family of note, long descended from the line of Masashigi.
His father had been one of Uji's trusted vassals early in life and Fitsu had been imparted with great respect for Daidoji Uji and Doji Kuwanan.
He studied Kuwanan's unusual tactics, many derived from Toturi the Black, obsessively.
This led him to following in the former Champion's footsteps of studying at the Akodo War College after learing the Daidoji methods.
After a few years there he went to the wall where he could apply and hone these skills without using them against Rokugani.
While he excelled at command, he took a major wound that was beyond healing to his right hand while there.
He lost his middle finger and the back of his hand, which is why he is often described as wearing sleeves that hang lowere than his fingers, and never uses archery.
Having been wounded close to the Shadowlands he made peace with the idea that he would live out his life in the Damned.
Fortunes favored him however, and he avoided garnering from the taint. This more than anything brought him a closer relationship to the Fortunes he credited with this turn of luck.
He then went back to Crane lands and spent a good deal of time imparting his methods and discipline one the Daidoji armies. He rose through the ranks quickly and was given the title Rikugunshokan shortly before the Yobanjin invaded. Although this was just as likely due to his dominance of Go at Wintercourt.
When Toturi sent out the call he found that Fitsu had already answered and was ready with troops outfitted to march.
Fitsu was at the vanguard along with Bayushi Senshi and Akodo Tomatsu when the battle began in earnest.
In the end, it was Fitsu's plan that brought Toturi his victory, borne on the back of samurai from the Dragon, Crane, and Crab.
Knowing that the Crab respected strength, and flush with the glory of victory, Fitsu returned to Crab lands in the role of Ambassador.
In light of his duties there a political marriage was arranged for him, though the was once more very fortunate and fell madly in love with his appointed bride.
It was then that the rebellion was begun, and he was called home to head the Crane Armies.
Shortly after arriving he was named Regent, and here we are. Sorry that was so long.
Zeure
Haha, not long at all, Fitsu-sama.
This is good though, it will help those who have been wondering after your character's backstory, it was a question I got more than once.
Daidoji Fitsu
No problem.
I probably should have posted it in one of those character background threads but I never got around to it. My bad.
Zeure
Haha, it is the champion's prerogative, surely you were just embroiled in something else far more important until now.
Daidoji Fitsu
Yeah...let's go with that.
Zeure
Some of the questions that I was asked I feel can just be inferred from what you have said earlier, but just to make it 100% clear. Who is your best friend? And if you could form a long lasting alliance with a family, not a clan, but a family, who would it be with?
Daidoji Fitsu
Fitsu hasn't anyone that he would call his best friend, sadly. He's spent too much time moving and leading, and too little time getting to know anyone.
He's trying to change that, and he would be lost right now if it weren't for his wife, Mitsouko, and Naeteru.
As far as a family...I think it would set a fine example for the Empire if he could manage to start that sort of lasting friendship with the Akodo.
Zeure
And I think Tomatsu, or Keisuke would not be unhappy about such a thing.
Perhaps this is the start of a new RP thread for you?
Daidoji Fitsu
It could be. We've set some foundation for peace in a thread already, it might not be such a jump to create friendship even if the war persists.
Zeure
Do you think the civil war is being manipulated by some sinister outside force, or do you think it is simply the Brothers at war?
Daidoji Fitsu
Both? I think the ill will was there to begin with, but it has been exploited into a scenario neither of them would have entertained without prodding from without.
Zeure
Do you suspect the shadowlands, or is there something else at work?
Daidoji Fitsu
It's not been the Shadowlands style to be so...subtle. OOC I would find it much more likely Kolat.
Discredit both of them enough that people lose faith in Imperial rule all together. Look around it's happening.
Zeure
*nods* I can see the logic there.
Ok, let me check my list for a moment...
Couple of more esoteric ones. Do you consider fear a flaw? And, what do you consider art?
Daidoji Fitsu
Fear is not a flaw, succumbing to it is.
Art is expression; that is either inspired, or inspiring.
Zeure
Haha.
All the questions I have been sent have been addressed, so, is there any parting words that you would leave all of us with?
Daidoji Fitsu
Yes there are.
First, I'm really happy that it seems much of the flames that were roaring over this civil war have abated.
Certainly there seems to be less bitterness on the boards, and that can only be good.
Secondly, I want to thank the Crane players for making this game so fun to play in so many ways. You guys rock!
Thirdly, I want to specifically thank Kakita Mitsouko. Without her the Crane would not be as cool as they are now, and we have much thanks to give her.
And lastly, thank you for taking the time to do this with me, and thanks to anyone who managed to stay awake to this point...or at least woke up and finished it!
Zeure
Haha. Good one.
Ok, well, thank you for your time, sir. It has been a pleasure interviewing you.
Daidoji Fitsu
Thank you again!
Zeure
GOOD NIGHT ROKUGAN!!
*crowd cheers and applauds, some women throws panties at Fitsu*
Daidoji Fitsu
That is what I like.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Zeure
Ok!
Welcome to the Interview process, it is a pleasure to have you sir!
We're coming to you LIVE from Shiro Daidoji and we’re here with Daidoji Fitsu, the esteemed Crane Clane Regent!
I’m your host, Zeure and we are ready to get this thing ROCKING!
How are you doing this evening, Fitsu-sama?
Daidoji Fitsu
I'm doing fine! Just trying nurse a sick wife.
Zeure
Good man, love those women, am I right?
Daidoji Fitsu
Absolutely.
Zeure
Well, we'll just jump right in then. Similar to the previous interview, I had a lot of people questioning your character, who, to all appearances to those who do not know you (like me) seems shrouded in mystery. So, could you please tell us a little bit about your character and any NPCs or Alts you have running around.
Daidoji Fitsu
Alts and NPCs are easy, since I don't currently have any. I've done a few things in the past with random Daidoji, but I haven't kept any of them around after more than one encounter.
Fitsu himself is a bit more difficult. He wasn't groomed for the role he's in, and while he strives to fulfill his responsibilities with dignity he doesn't always know the best method to present himself off the battlefield.
Zeure
So, it would be fair to say that he is perhaps lacking in some of the courtly demeanor?
Daidoji Fitsu
It would. He tries to express himself eloquently enough, but he occasionally lacks subtlety. His experience in court prior to taking Regency was limited to his ambassadorial duties to the Crab. He learned much there, but courtly grace...not so much.
Zeure
*said behind a fan* Interesting. The crab courts are not known for this, so I expect no one can blame you. *flaps fan a few times* You say that it was thrust upon you, that you were not groomed for it, what are the circumstances that led to you being champion? (Both IC and OOC would be great)
Daidoji Fitsu
OOC, the Crane were without formal leadership on the forums. Many of the appointed daimyo and the Champion weren't interested or able to partake in the forum rp so we were left in a situation where we had no one of rank to participate in interactions with other clans.
I was nominated for Regency because I had interacted with many of the Champions from other clans and had their respect, and because I had one of the highest Glory scores of any active role players. We had a vote and I was honored to take the title.
IC Our revered Crane Champion, Doji Yoshi, had fallen seriously ill. Being too sick to represent the Clan and manage it, especially in such turbulent times, led him to declaring a regency for Fitsu until his heirs are of age to take the role. Fitsu was already Rikugunshokan, so he had demonstrated the ability to lead samurai and manage resources.
Zeure
So, the crane must have a great deal of trust for you then.
Tie Breaker! What's your favorite fortune, and why!?
Daidoji Fitsu
I'm a big fan of Jurojin. Longevity is hard won, and to be admired. Plus there's a lovely shrine in Crane lands. The fact that the Celestial is fantastic in the card game doesn't hurt.
Zeure
Good one. So, earlier you mentioned having a positive relationship with the other champions, who are your biggest allies, friends and rivals!?
Daidoji Fitsu
I haven't developed any juicy rivalries to share, sadly. I've been trying to bridge gaps more than make them. I've had good dealings with Akodo Tomatsu, so I would count him an ally. Fitsu and Setsuro are close enought that I very nearly married into the Crab prior to becoming Regent.
Zeure
Good, you help the transitions, speaking on marriage. Is there a special someone in Fitsu's life?
Daidoji Fitsu
There is! Although she hasn't been given proper spotlight, his wife Daidoji Suzuka, originally a Hida, had been seen in a few threads. She was a valued commander in the Crab, and was of close rank in Glory to Fitsu when they wed.
Zeure
Wonderful, may Benton bless your marriage. And personally I wish upon you lots of happy chubby babies.
Daidoji Fitsu
Thank you.
Zeure
Speaking on your previous relations with the crab. I am led to believe that when the war broke out you were a staunch supporter of Toturi-sama and then left his service to join alongside your clan in support of Hantei-sama. Has this strained your relationship with the crab? Do you think that this may be a cause for their swift attacks on the crane?
Daidoji Fitsu
I don't think it accelerated there attack plans, but there has been very little communication since the war broke out. So strained is a good word for it. I was a staunch supporter of Toturi when that didn't mean betraying the true Emperor.
I felt that, what Toturi did was within the assigned duties of Shogun. But for any who say the Emperor should have called the banners and led the charge to begin with I would ask, isn't that the Shogun's job?
Zeure
Personally, I agree with you there. The shogun was well within rights and in fact SHOULD have charged the Yobanjin, which he did. But his betrayal in declaring himself emperor was dishonorable. Both because he had already denounced his claim for the throne, and it opposed the son of heaven, may he live forever.
Daidoji Fitsu
Exactly. I was all for Toturi until he made this a war. Yobanjin at the borders SHOULD be beneath the Emperor's notice, and it's every samurai's duty to make that true.
Zeure
So, some quick questions. What is your favorite food? What is your favored Tenet of Bushido? And what would be the perfect gift?
Daidoji Fitsu
My favorite food is sushi, I spent a year cooking at a sushi bar before I started my current career 10 years ago.
My favorite tenet of Bushido...Loyalty. I'm not trying to come off all Scorpion, but they have some good notions on it.
The perfect gift has far more to do with who's giving it then what it is. All things are fleeting, but when given they carry meaning beyond their material worth.
Zeure
Perfectly samurai answer.
Ok, so, one person was very curious about your thoughts on the spider, if Fitsu is aware of them at all.
Daidoji Fitsu
Fitsu isn't aware of them at all beyond rumors of conspiracy. Having spent years on the wall both as a young samurai and then as an ambassador I don't think he would have a high opinion of them in any event.
Zeure
*nods* As expected of most of the citizenry of Rokugan.
Daidoji Fitsu
I think it's worth noting that from a player perspective I recognize their worth. I'm not a fan of the way they've been implemented in story, but this is our game and for better and worse it is largely what we've made it.
Zeure
Some would differ on that opinion. In fact a fair few of the players would say that the spider have been implemented into the story very poorly in the Emerald Empire.
But, that's neither here nor there in relation to your character.
Daidoji Fitsu
True enough. I like the Spider players, if not their clan.
Zeure
I'm sure they all thank you. Ok, HARD-HITTING question round. What is your opinion of the so-called "New Crane Movement"?
And of course, I can elaborate if need be.
Daidoji Fitsu
Please do.
Zeure
The "New Crane Movement" is a group of crane who find that they have a poor image in the empire. An image of ineffectual courtiers hiding behind the emperor or whichever lord is convenient and never getting anything accomplished. They are dedicated to bringing the crane to the fore and making rokugan recognize that the crane are more than posh courtiers.
Daidoji Fitsu
I see nothing wrong with things as you've presented them. We haven't had an Emperor to hide behind in Emerald Empire, so we have to show that we are fully capable samurai in our own right. That doesn't mean the courts have lost their value, however.
Zeure
You said what you said, and Kakita Battou heard "YEAH we have champion support!"
*fist pump*
Daidoji Fitsu
Easier to get forgiveness than permission, no?
Zeure
Haha.
Ok, what would Fitsu's advice be to those who are tainted and are trying to manage their taint?
Daidoji Fitsu
There's a legion with your name on it that serves a very important role. My friend Setsuro can tell you where to find them and pick up your new gear.
Zeure
You've spoken briefly about some of your past experiences, but can you elaborate on your background a little bit more? Perhaps in a timeline fashion?
Daidoji Fitsu
Fitsu was born into a Daidoji family of note, long descended from the line of Masashigi.
His father had been one of Uji's trusted vassals early in life and Fitsu had been imparted with great respect for Daidoji Uji and Doji Kuwanan.
He studied Kuwanan's unusual tactics, many derived from Toturi the Black, obsessively.
This led him to following in the former Champion's footsteps of studying at the Akodo War College after learing the Daidoji methods.
After a few years there he went to the wall where he could apply and hone these skills without using them against Rokugani.
While he excelled at command, he took a major wound that was beyond healing to his right hand while there.
He lost his middle finger and the back of his hand, which is why he is often described as wearing sleeves that hang lowere than his fingers, and never uses archery.
Having been wounded close to the Shadowlands he made peace with the idea that he would live out his life in the Damned.
Fortunes favored him however, and he avoided garnering from the taint. This more than anything brought him a closer relationship to the Fortunes he credited with this turn of luck.
He then went back to Crane lands and spent a good deal of time imparting his methods and discipline one the Daidoji armies. He rose through the ranks quickly and was given the title Rikugunshokan shortly before the Yobanjin invaded. Although this was just as likely due to his dominance of Go at Wintercourt.
When Toturi sent out the call he found that Fitsu had already answered and was ready with troops outfitted to march.
Fitsu was at the vanguard along with Bayushi Senshi and Akodo Tomatsu when the battle began in earnest.
In the end, it was Fitsu's plan that brought Toturi his victory, borne on the back of samurai from the Dragon, Crane, and Crab.
Knowing that the Crab respected strength, and flush with the glory of victory, Fitsu returned to Crab lands in the role of Ambassador.
In light of his duties there a political marriage was arranged for him, though the was once more very fortunate and fell madly in love with his appointed bride.
It was then that the rebellion was begun, and he was called home to head the Crane Armies.
Shortly after arriving he was named Regent, and here we are. Sorry that was so long.
Zeure
Haha, not long at all, Fitsu-sama.
This is good though, it will help those who have been wondering after your character's backstory, it was a question I got more than once.
Daidoji Fitsu
No problem.
I probably should have posted it in one of those character background threads but I never got around to it. My bad.
Zeure
Haha, it is the champion's prerogative, surely you were just embroiled in something else far more important until now.
Daidoji Fitsu
Yeah...let's go with that.
Zeure
Some of the questions that I was asked I feel can just be inferred from what you have said earlier, but just to make it 100% clear. Who is your best friend? And if you could form a long lasting alliance with a family, not a clan, but a family, who would it be with?
Daidoji Fitsu
Fitsu hasn't anyone that he would call his best friend, sadly. He's spent too much time moving and leading, and too little time getting to know anyone.
He's trying to change that, and he would be lost right now if it weren't for his wife, Mitsouko, and Naeteru.
As far as a family...I think it would set a fine example for the Empire if he could manage to start that sort of lasting friendship with the Akodo.
Zeure
And I think Tomatsu, or Keisuke would not be unhappy about such a thing.
Perhaps this is the start of a new RP thread for you?
Daidoji Fitsu
It could be. We've set some foundation for peace in a thread already, it might not be such a jump to create friendship even if the war persists.
Zeure
Do you think the civil war is being manipulated by some sinister outside force, or do you think it is simply the Brothers at war?
Daidoji Fitsu
Both? I think the ill will was there to begin with, but it has been exploited into a scenario neither of them would have entertained without prodding from without.
Zeure
Do you suspect the shadowlands, or is there something else at work?
Daidoji Fitsu
It's not been the Shadowlands style to be so...subtle. OOC I would find it much more likely Kolat.
Discredit both of them enough that people lose faith in Imperial rule all together. Look around it's happening.
Zeure
*nods* I can see the logic there.
Ok, let me check my list for a moment...
Couple of more esoteric ones. Do you consider fear a flaw? And, what do you consider art?
Daidoji Fitsu
Fear is not a flaw, succumbing to it is.
Art is expression; that is either inspired, or inspiring.
Zeure
Haha.
All the questions I have been sent have been addressed, so, is there any parting words that you would leave all of us with?
Daidoji Fitsu
Yes there are.
First, I'm really happy that it seems much of the flames that were roaring over this civil war have abated.
Certainly there seems to be less bitterness on the boards, and that can only be good.
Secondly, I want to thank the Crane players for making this game so fun to play in so many ways. You guys rock!
Thirdly, I want to specifically thank Kakita Mitsouko. Without her the Crane would not be as cool as they are now, and we have much thanks to give her.
And lastly, thank you for taking the time to do this with me, and thanks to anyone who managed to stay awake to this point...or at least woke up and finished it!
Zeure
Haha. Good one.
Ok, well, thank you for your time, sir. It has been a pleasure interviewing you.
Daidoji Fitsu
Thank you again!
Zeure
GOOD NIGHT ROKUGAN!!
*crowd cheers and applauds, some women throws panties at Fitsu*
Daidoji Fitsu
That is what I like.
- Chuda Yun 
- Bob 
- Kakita Battou
