Kitsune Poxo
Mantis Clan
Mantis Clan | Shugenja | Earth | Thunder | Kitsune Blooded | Naval | Daimyo | Unique
Posts: 225
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Post by Kitsune Poxo on Mar 26, 2012 9:26:31 GMT -5
Looking up again her demeanor seeming to return Yumi spoke. “I don’t know what I could do to help on your trip to Benten Seido. I am not any kind of investigator nor am I in any real position to offer any real allegiances. Also, think my brother is about ready to tear a hole here wondering if you are keeping me hostage…"
She trailed of in her words as Yuuto entered the room. She quieted down, and bowed as she instinctually sensed the other shugenja’s abilities. “Good evening Asahina-sama, I am also the sister of Moshi Modori. I am not as brave as Mitsouko-sama says...” The petite shugenja stayed in a bowed position as she spoke and did not rise afterwards. He silver hair hung freely blocking her eyes.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Mar 26, 2012 10:58:37 GMT -5
Hostage? Kitsune Daichi should know I would never take HIS sister as hostage, dear Yumi-san. You are of course free to return to your homeland whenever you wish, with my sincerest appreciation for your kind and priceless help. And of course can count on Kakita family to escort you if needed be... Though some of Yumi's words sounded as if the Kitsune woman was a touchy sort of person, Mitsouko liked her and also, was making her part due her respect to Yumi's family. The Kakita daimyo might not be so understanding to many others, in her actual mood. Though of course everything could be just a matter of perspective. She didn't smile as usual. And... it was an invitation.
Sent from my XT300 using ProBoards
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Daigotsu Thrakhath
Spider Clan
Through strength, I gain power. Through power, I gain victory. Through victory, my chains are broken
Posts: 600
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Post by Daigotsu Thrakhath on Mar 26, 2012 13:27:36 GMT -5
Along the rode leading out of Seawatch Castle, a band of sohei made camp. All of them wore heavy armor and bore a myriad of bladed weapons, and covered head to to in mostly white wrappings. They generally kept to themselves; once in a while one or two of them would enter town and return with supplies. They interacted with no one unless approached directly. Anyone who did approach them would generally speak to a monk named Yamuso, a man who seemed to be the unofficial spokesman for the group. His answers were generally less than helpful, and raised more questions than they answered.
((OOC: Filler post go!))
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Kakita Hitoshi
Crane Clan
Be more concerned with good actions than great ones
Posts: 306
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Post by Kakita Hitoshi on Mar 26, 2012 18:24:36 GMT -5
Upon hearing Yumi's words, Hitoshi smiled and looked as though he were about to say something, but then stopped himself and remained silent. When there was a gap in the conversation he bowed to Mitsouko. "I am at my lady's disposal."
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Mar 27, 2012 4:56:22 GMT -5
That’s good, Hitoshi-san. I’ll be leaving at the noon, and your company, as well the company of the ones willing to join me to Benten Seido will be welcome. Also, she turned to Yuuto again,I hope you can tell me something about this helm. We took it from a group in the Shadowlands, they were carrying it as a precious booty… I am under impression it may be of great importance somehow. But… you of course don’t need to study this object in a hurry… From ten days now, it’ll be my wedding day and I hope to see you in the following celebration. She smiled. Maybe it’s enough time to make a previous study upon the item… Anyway Right now I’m heading to Benten Seido to talk to Domotai-sama and don’t think it’s a good idea take this thing there. The helmet will remain in Seawatch Castle, guarded and at your disposal for further analysis. Yumi-san has room to decide if either she wants to come to Benten Seido, wishes to stay in Seawatch Castle and maybe help with this item research or, finally, wishes to come back to her family. Anyway, I hope she can be at the celebration of my wedding, as I count with her family presence as well… And all of you, of course. Now please excuse me, I have some preparations to make before leaving the Castle... . Saying that Mitsouko bowed to them, and directed to the pavilion's exit, though of course she listened if something was talked to her before her leaving.
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Kitsune Poxo
Mantis Clan
Mantis Clan | Shugenja | Earth | Thunder | Kitsune Blooded | Naval | Daimyo | Unique
Posts: 225
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Post by Kitsune Poxo on Mar 27, 2012 8:53:49 GMT -5
Yumi straightened up and waved her hands in front of her looking rather flustered. “I-I-I mean no-no-no offense by it Mitsouko-sama. I was just wondering as to why you would invite someone such as me to somewhere so sensitive right now.”
Putting her hands back to her sides, she averted her eyes and continued. “I mean my family is part of the Mantis now and the Mantis is still in all technicalities your enemy still. It was not that long ago that we stood at this very shore trying to take this castle. While might hold respect for us what of the others?”
Bringing her eyes back to her host, Yumi seemed to improve in mood as a small grin appeared. “I’ll send a letter to my brother. It should stop him from turning Rokugan upside down. I’ll also inform of your wedding is so soon. What I going to do for preparations?” She threw out that last part more towards herself then anyone else.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Mar 30, 2012 5:46:28 GMT -5
Dear Yumi-san....The Kakita daimyo turned to look again at the petite beauty from Kitsune family, a thoughtful expression in her face.The very Mantis in this very shore fought along Crane against a greater threat to Empire than this petty war for power and pride.Also, only a fool measures men for the side they are in politics.Some men of view among your new clan, mostly from Kitsune family, helped to relocate refugees, ignoring their side. This is the way Crane sees your family, Yumi-san. Technically we are in opposite sides but in fact, my clan and your family, your clan for all I know, don’t see this war as the rest of the rebels see it.
You know… Once I believed Kaneka loved Mantis, now I ‘m not so sure. Mantis swore allegiance to Kaneka, when they thought they have an ally in him. Though, Mantis was left alone by their allies. Your new clan was taken by your own side in this war as pirates and raiders, nothing else. But… we Crane understand your position. I hope you can understand ours. A grin was born in Mitsouko's mouth. Besides, I heard by a close friend of the Doji daimyo that you were a sensation in the last winter court! Her eyes narrowed in amusement.
I’m sure you will be very welcome in Benten Seido,*while I skip the traditions the poor soon-to-be Empress most probably is facing with the same spirit I would!*ahem!It was made on purpose, of course. Most probably the things are calmer down there so no worries. It’s just a bit more of protocol than anything else, but I'm sure your soothing presence will lift the spirits and remind everyone the good things Kitsune made during this war. Now, for sure, I need to leave, excuse me, please.
Saying so she bowed again for all the presents and left.
________________________________________
Later, under the weak sun of the noon, Mitsouko and the ones with her were crossing the gates of the Seawatch Castle heading Benten Seido.
[updated] After some minutes of calm trotting, the group could see a sohei camp, along the road. Their presence weren’t strange since they were also near Seido Jurojin, but a bit dislocated. Being clearly non Brotherhood monks, this fact intrigued the Kakita daimyo. Moved by curiosity (and of course trusting their identities were already checked as they were right now in a militarized zone in a Crane province), Mitsouko slowed the pace of her horse while asked to one of them*: Konnichiwa, sohei-san. May I ask you what are you doing so far from a monastery?
OCC:*I’m assuming the encampment is right along the road, in a way that this conversation can be possible from passersby to one of the sohei… If not, feel free to correct me.
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Daigotsu Thrakhath
Spider Clan
Through strength, I gain power. Through power, I gain victory. Through victory, my chains are broken
Posts: 600
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Post by Daigotsu Thrakhath on Mar 30, 2012 11:11:33 GMT -5
The sohei looked startled at being addressed directly, and his eyes widened a bit after taking in the appearance of the group addressing him. He bowed politely, as he'd been taught to do. "Apologies, Crane-sama, but it is not my place to say," he said. He indicated one of the other monks, a man approaching the group with hands clasped behind his back, a heavy-bladed scimitar sheathed at his side. "He is the leader of our troop, he can answer any questions you might have."
The new sohei bowed deeply, giving Mitsuoko's armor a quick once-over as he straightened. He removed the white scarf from his face to keep his words from being muffled, revealing pale features and a short beard. "Greetings, Crane-sama," he said, looking her in the eye. "I am known as Omigawa, and I apologize if our presence on the road is not proper, but we did not wish to burden anyone in the city by asking for accommodations when all we require is rest and resupply." He seemed to appraise the rest of Mitsuoko's group quickly. "As for your question, Crane-sama," he said, "it is my experience that war takes a terrible toll on the common people through the depredations of wicked men, and that sometimes the local magistrates are not enough to deal with the problem." He folded his arms and leaned to one side. "It was my hope that we could provide assistance where we could in dealing with the problem, once we are properly provisioned."
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 2, 2012 17:45:50 GMT -5
Such compassionate task you have chosen to yourself… She said, deliberately not taking her eyes from his. The sohei’s evaluation on her group didn’t escape from the Kakita daimyo’s perception, though it wasn’t unexpected coming from a man trained in the dealings of a warrior. The pale man caused some impact; mostly for daring to look at her eyes with such intensity, but something else catch her attention: A scimitar… Omigawa seems to have an interesting story, and I am eager to learn about a sohei who has a scimitar as his preferred sword… She slipped from the horse, keeping eye contact. You are talking to Kakita Mitsouko… You and your men can be fully resupplied depending on how interesting your story is… She smiled.
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Daigotsu Thrakhath
Spider Clan
Through strength, I gain power. Through power, I gain victory. Through victory, my chains are broken
Posts: 600
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Post by Daigotsu Thrakhath on Apr 5, 2012 11:02:30 GMT -5
Omigawa's eyes narrowed just slightly at the sound of the Kakita's full name, but only for a second. He bowed once more, more deeply than before. "I of course am familiar with your name, Kakita-sama, and I am honored to meet such an esteemed member of the Crane clan," he said. "It would also be my honor to sit and speak with you, if that is what the Kakita daimyo wishes."
Omigawa led Mitsouko, and whichever aides and guards she wished to accompany her, toward the largest tent in the sohei camp. Inside, another monk was leaning over a table, and when the sohei looked up Omigawa gave him a curt nod. "Kakita-sama, allow me to introduce my aide, Yamuso," Omigawa said, as Mitsouko stepped into the tent. "Yamuso, this is Kakita Mitsouko, daimyo of the Kakita family."
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Post by Shoju on Apr 5, 2012 13:18:36 GMT -5
Yamuso was wrapped in the white trappings of the Sohei. He stood and bowed deeply to Mitsouko. As he raised back up, he removed the wrappings from his face, revealing a face no one who had seen could, ever forget. Those muted features. The dulled eyes. "It is an honor to meet you Lady Kakita-sama". As Yamuso bowed, the short blades on his back were evident. Positioned for quick draw, and appearing to be perfect length for close quarters combat. "I had the pleasure of making the acquaintance of several Crane in my travels. It is nice to finally, formally, make yours."
Yamuso flashed a glance at Omigawa, and then back at the Kakita. " I believe that the stories you would hear from us would indeed prove interesting." Yamuso smiled. "I dare not speak for my brothers, but my tale, is one of Will." Yamuso smiled as he finished the sentence. "Tell me Kakita-sama, you must have an incredible will yes?"
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Kakita Hitoshi
Crane Clan
Be more concerned with good actions than great ones
Posts: 306
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Post by Kakita Hitoshi on Apr 8, 2012 17:40:23 GMT -5
Kakita Hitoshi followed respectfully behind the Kakita daimyo. He was not listening closely to the conversation - he was not in the mood to listen to monks - but stood guard watchfully.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 8, 2012 19:59:02 GMT -5
Mitsouko used to keep her best impassible face for moments like that, but she can't be sure of her success in hiding her reaction to Yamuso's faceless features. Her mind quickly worked on hypothesis which could explain this unfortunate appearance, to say the least, but a few could really fit to it. Her senses could tell her how wrong things were going here, but she stubbornly wished to make sure she would not be blind to crude life's reality, as countless others rather be. There was not only the smooth beauty of the lovers in the court or the flawless bravery of warriors and shugenja as told in the old tanka. War, life and power were made of blood, sweat, wrath and passion...Those men knew it better, it seems.
With a sad smile she said: No, Yamuso, I think I am not a good judge of myself. My will is only enough to keep me going and doing what I must do. But yours... I'm sure I like to hear a tale of a man's will, and the lenghts it can keep him going...
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Post by Shoju on Apr 9, 2012 10:14:21 GMT -5
Yamuso folded his arms as he looked at the Samurai-ko. "Before you were born, I was samurai. I was Mirmuoto, and placed under a great Kitsuki Investigator. I was there when they convinced the Great Grey Crane of the usefulness of their methods." Yamuso's face registered a reverence at the mention of Toshimoko.
"When the Lying Darkness took the Emperor from the Throne, Kitsuki-san was determined to find him. We were deep in the Shinomen when we were assaulted. The Darkness killed the Kitsuki, and took hold inside of me. Slowly, it began to turn me, relishing in its destruction of me." Yamuso wiped his head, slowly moving his hand over the muted features, as if to emphasize the loss he had suffered.
"I fought hard against it, and when the Lying Darkness was pre-occupied with Volturnum, I struck[/i]. I was able to gain my freedom from the monster inside me.[/color]" Yamuso sighed heavy. "The toll on me was great, but I fought alongside the Empire at Volturnum, and defeated them." Yamuso's face still held a sadness, even at the tale of victory.
"I had willed myself to live. But unlike the others, who were eventually named Akodo, I had won my freedom of my own volition. My future, was not with them." He looked at her, his eyes held no emotion. "I hadn't realized the nature of my will yet. I wallowed in self pity, and loathing until a great man found me." Yamuso turned and looked at his companion. "He taught me that my Will had saved me. My will had given me the Strength I needed to fight the Lying Darkness, The Knowledge of its weakness, The insight to its plans, The Determination to free myself, and Control of my own destiny again. In the end, he convinced me, that my will had granted me Perfection".
Yamuso held a wide grin, an unsettling expression to be sure. "I follow this path now, because I am no longer the Mirumoto who entered Shinomen looking for answers, nor am I the monster I was becoming." Yamuso looked back at Mitsouko, the grin fading. "The man who showed me my will gave me this name, and I will follow him."
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod ![*](//storage.proboards.com/forum/images/stars/star.png)
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 9, 2012 17:34:13 GMT -5
She heard about the merits of a monk's lifestyle, and how well-preserved some can appear to be, despite their real age, but it was a fact that the events this man was recounting were related to some decades ago, not matching with his physical general appearance. The lack of facial features, however, could be hiding the years, and maybe the events of his tragic life had altered not only that. Thus, the Kakita daimyo was of course puzzled and curious about Yamuso:
Well, I understand this choice, Yamuso. Giving up in such situation is a great weakness, unforgivable is to not fight it off to your limits and conquering freedom, or die trying... And I am amazed to find someone who defeated such evil inside himself. But, she slowly shook her head forgive me, I hereticaly do not believe in perfection. Will alone cannot make anything perfect, or so I think, but I'd be pleased to understand how you think you reached perfection through this... path of will.
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