Kitsuki Yuushahime
Dragon Clan
This person sometimes posts things that are tl;dr
Courtier Magistrate Ambassador Daimyo
Posts: 1,140
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Post by Kitsuki Yuushahime on Feb 4, 2011 17:31:12 GMT -5
(edit: ooc: To make it clear, on Tomatsu's advise, I'll be gm-ing this and trying my best to give this an overall structure and direction. I do have a slight story in mind but the majority of this and how it transpires will be up to everyone else to decide with their in character actions. Please also take any private conversations in character to PM to save clutter. Do feel free to summarise the conversation in your posts though so the feel of the story is maintained! Thanks for this and all the replies already!)
To be sure, there had been chaos when the yobanjin invasion was noticed and first responded to. That was nothing compared to the chaos in organising all of the Clans and their armies and having them all gather in one place, presumably to march under one banner. Some had thought this would lead to organisation and unity, a departure from the haphazard response to the barbarian invaders so far. The judges were still deciding on this matter. The Shogun would lead as the head of the army but he was one man and his personal staff were few in comparison to the hordes of loyal samurai that arrived at the capital day by day.
The armies had to be given tents and temporary accommodation outside of the city as their numbers grew. The logistics involved were horrendous. There was a need for food and drink. People needed to make and repair armour, weapons and horseshoes. Scrolls and shugenja materials needed to be collected. All of this needed to be inventoried. Above all though; the army needed leaders. It needed experienced generals and capable officers.
The current dilemma was how to structure an army that had membership from each of the great and minor clans. One could assign control of a Clan's troops to its own officers and generals but there was always the problem of balancing numbers and squabbling between different forces. Furthermore, for the army to be strongest, all its elements needed to combine their skills effectively. Separate clan units working together in different forces was one suggested strategy. However, as with all the other matters of assembly of the gathering hosts, this too was being fiercely debated.
Yushahime was not here for any of these matters. She had come with a swift guard to the capital all the way from Shiro Kitsuki with one purpose in mind; intelligence and networking. The Dragon bushi would be busy practicing and arguing with the other bushi on army organisation and strategy. Some would keenly observe their allies and learn what they could. Few would look at the big picture and how such an endeavour as this could change clan alliances and goals and shift the courtly geography of Rokugan greatly. Even traditionally isolationist Clans such as hers and the Phoenix were amassing in strength. This was a time of change and she needed to be there to document it. She would also strive to make friends.
The pretense for her visit was word that mich of the Scorpion and Crane leadership would be at the capital. This would make her ambassadorial duties easier and it would be seen as a sign of courtesy that she travelled to meet them and offer her help as they prepared for war. A willingness to be near an army when one was a courtier could also be an asset; it helped counter the traditional overly peaceful image of her occupation. In truth she whole heartedly supported the movement and secretly believed in the Shogun that the Emperor's unwillingness to come to a decision more swiftly was damaging the Empire. Someone needed to act. The Emperor could neatly solve any problems later after the enemy was dispatched.
When she arrived the endless waves of troops were even more than previous messages had estimated. This was the first thing she would write about and send back for others to be informed of. She left it to her guards and servants to lead the small procession through the gates of the capital and to where they would be staying as she took on the difficult task of scribing on horseback. Yushahime had a long list of people to meet too and started awakening her memory on what she knew of each individual as her hand wrote characters.
Yushahime was still dressed in her travelling attire; heavy and warm but not quite fitting for meeting important nobles or samurai leaders. Her kimono was a plain dark green, her hairpin the only highlight to her attire. She knew she must look tired for the journey had been in haste. She longed to have a swift bath and change. Her hair trailed in the strong gusts of wind. It seemed an army was not the only thing that gathered. There could well be a storm tonight she thought.
One thing cheered her up most and that was the presence of her cousin. She had persuaded their shared masters that the girl, Haru, would benefit from seeing the capital and meeting so many samurai. Haru didn't look tired at all; her eyes were wide with each new sight. It was obvious she wished to ask her older cousin many questions but refrained as Yushahime worked. Her thick kimono was plain too but it was in better condition than Yushahime's - the girl had travelled less and her travelling attire was almost new. She wore a slightly smaller than normal wakizashi on her side but her age and manner marked her as not yet having had her gempukku.
Yushahime was also lucky to have her key servant with her. He was always at the back of the pack, his keen eyes still wary and scanning around them as the bushi guards instead relaxed - they were confident of the safety of the capital. His kimono was a brown with a green obi, a popular combination of the peasants in some Dragon lands. He nodded at Yushahime with his grizzled face before going back to his observation. He wasn't a trained Kitsuki but he was a veteran eta servant. He had served Kitsuki's mother before her and though he was not getting older his skills had not yet faded.
The streets were busy and it was only early evening. Many smells filled the air as merchants tried to sell each visitor to the capital their wares, the food merchants insisting each was a delicacy or their prices were the best in town. This was one of the few constants of the empire Yushahime realised and chuckled as she tucked away the now finished scroll page of notes. A shout from the front of the procession alerted her that they would reach the inn, for the palace grounds and other places were full, that they had booked in advance in just a few minutes more. It had actually taken some persuading and the currying of some favour for the rooms to be arranged for them. Kitsuki goaded her horse forward so she would be at the front of the procession for when they arrived, her cousin doing the same so she could finally ask her questions.
(ooc: Here we go. Please do join in where you think appropriate people!)
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
Lion Clan Champion?Samurai?Tactician?Loyal?Paragon of Sincerity?Defender of the Empire
Posts: 1,042
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Feb 4, 2011 18:16:25 GMT -5
At the Parade Grounds The horns and drums sounded. All servants and samurai of the Lion clan jerked their heads around to see where the sound was coming from. They all knew it meant one thing, the thought traveled through all of their minds simultaneously. The Champion is here.Tomatsu road up on a pure black steed, those who knew horses could tell it was from the Burning Sands. The steed was tired, but held up well. The champion trotted up to the large tent at the center of the lion encampment. His men gathered around awaiting for word from their champion. He glanced around, a bit nervously at his men, and softly spoke to one of his servants. The servant nodded enthusiastically, before grabbing the reigns of his horse and leading him behind the tent and out of sight. A few moments later, the champion reappeared out from around the back of the tent on foot, limping slightly, a fresh bandage on his head. He met with a few of the higher ranking samurai at his tent, exchanging pleasantries, and promising to tell them of the recent battle later. After a few minutes, his servants whisked him inside of the large tend and the crowd dispersed, going back to what tasks they were doing.
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Akodo Jereru
Lion Clan
Lion Clan Samurai * Kensai * Deathseeker
Posts: 62
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Post by Akodo Jereru on Feb 4, 2011 20:07:38 GMT -5
Jereru arrived at Toshi Ranbo to find it had tripled its size. A rainbow ant colony had made its nest on the outskirts of the city, dwelled by samurai of every clan in Rokugan, great or minor. He was dirty and tired. The battle had gone well, but blood and mud were all over his uniform. He had many things to regret for, and he had barely slept during the way back. Anyone who looked at him could see a heavy weight upon his shoulders.
He looked for the Lion encampment. Dammit, there was quite a lot of people there... Crane, Mantis, Unicorns... he heard a group of Crabs joking. A handful of Phoenix were busy with some scrolls. Two Dragon samurai-ko, in plain green kimonos, were laughing while going to whatever post they were assigned. It was a pleasant view, after all this bloodspilling and madness. Especially after all what happened when the enemy broke through the lines. One of the samurai-ko was younger, she should have just passed her gempukku. They were probably coming from the same family, as they shared some features. Jereru watched them while they passed by, and thought to himself if he could one day laugh again as freely as they were doing. Unlikely.
He finally heard a familiar accent, and he recognized the characteristic Lion slang. Domotai's unit went to the Matsu tents, and Jereru headed for his Rikugunshokan. He had to let him know that Fumiaki was the best alternative to him. While walking to the command's tent, he saw Tomatsu-sama, talking to some officers, probably collecting information about all that had happened while he was away. Jereru stood still for a moment, looking at the man who could have died by his own clumsiness. At least, he was still alive.
Suddenly, a voice pulled him off of his dreaming...
(OOC: step in, anyone, free way...)
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Akodo Tomatsu
Lion Clan Mod
The Shining Lion
Lion Clan Champion?Samurai?Tactician?Loyal?Paragon of Sincerity?Defender of the Empire
Posts: 1,042
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Post by Akodo Tomatsu on Feb 4, 2011 20:13:21 GMT -5
Jereru-san! How are you doing? How was your ride? A much more happy looking Tomatsu appears from his tent. Now dressed in a Kimono, having had time to clean himself and get some medical attention, he was out and about, glad handing his fellow samurai, many of whom had missed the recent battle and were taking the time to hear their champion's stories and see his wounds. He approached Jereru, a smile on his face, waiting to hear his friend's tale of his journey from Mountain Watch keep to Toshi Ranbo, hoping it was better than his own.
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Shiba Kazuma
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan Champion?Samurai?Shiba's Soul?Unique?Enlightened
Posts: 369
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Post by Shiba Kazuma on Feb 4, 2011 20:14:05 GMT -5
In all of the procession and mingling Shiba Kazuma arrived. He had heard of the large gathering of troops and wanted to see for himself if anything could be done. He had also heard the rumors that the Phoenix clan was here as well and he wanted to see if there was anything that he could do for his clan. He walked through the crowds until he found his way to the area where the Phoenix clan was amassing. He quickly found himself an empty area to rest and placed his traveling pack down before lowering him self to lean against it. He took a moment to catch his breath and rest his legs. He wanted to survey the rest of the camps and take note of who was here.
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Shosuro Ichiro
Scorpion Clan
Shosuro Family Daimyo*Courtier*Diplomat*Actor*Spy
Posts: 241
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Post by Shosuro Ichiro on Feb 4, 2011 21:28:25 GMT -5
It was a long ride for the past few days, but Ichiro showed no sign of stopping. He and his entourage of courtiers knew they had to reach the capital, that was just over the rise. It had been along time an army of this size and importance was raised and Ichiro wanted to make sure he witnessed it.
When the party of ten made the rise they saw the sight of many tents and any many more Samurai. Of all Clans, great and small. He marveled at the sight and took a deep breath. All the while patting his mount.
"What a sight! What opportunities abound. I do not think we will see a grand army like this in our lifetime, so admire the great Host, our beloved Empire has to offer. We truly live in interesting times."
Ichiro reaches into his kimono, that is covering his light armor, and pulls out a sealed note. He looks it over to make sure no harm came to it and then waves one of his traveling companions over to him.
"Take this to the Scorpion encampment and deliver this to Bayusi Senshi. Also tell him I will be finding an inn to stay at and a proper bath, as I am starting to smell like a damn battle maiden."
The Rider bows and takes off towards the red banners of the Scorpion Clan. As that happens Ichiro gently sniff the sleeve of his Kimono and winces at its reek of road, mud, rain, wind and horse. At that his people chuckle, knowing full well that Ichiro never truly minds these outings.
Ichiro then looks at his riders and gives them the look of displeasure for breaking character. He has been to lax with his guard of shinobi, and he will remedy soon enough.
"It is high time we find a place to rest, eat and bath as we all have business to do."
Ichiro then nudges his horse into motion down towards the Capitol, his people in tow. The was much to see and do these next few days.
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Feb 4, 2011 21:52:42 GMT -5
Toku Kenpachi crested the final hill and saw Toshi Ranbo, the Imperial City. The sheer size of the city was breathtaking, but not as breathtaking as the horde of samurai that still could easily be seen from this distance.
"Move out!" Kenpachi roared at the army, his gunso repeating the orders. His army was small, barely half of a standard Lion army, but his men were determined and brave. As he got closer to the city, Kenpachi began to see all of the Clans represented. The Lion were the most numerous, as to be expected. There were still an amazing collection of other Clans. Though there was little space left thanks to the rest of the army, Kenpachi found space enough beween a Hare detachment and the calvary of the Ox. This was to be a battle that everyone here would be remembered for. While death did not matter victory did.
Kenpachi took Toku Hiroshi, one of his gunso, and walked through the city to speak with the masters of tactics themselves, the Lion.
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Kitsuki Yuushahime
Dragon Clan
This person sometimes posts things that are tl;dr
Courtier Magistrate Ambassador Daimyo
Posts: 1,140
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Post by Kitsuki Yuushahime on Feb 4, 2011 22:00:49 GMT -5
(ooc: Any chance of bumping into in or near the inn? If not I will move on and just pass to the next scene after a few more posts. We've had some good openings from people establishing why we're all here so thanks for those. I'm hoping to centre some of the interaction around the Eternal Lantern inn by the way)
Yushahime glanced around, fairly relaxed herself like her guards, and took in the huge number of samurai in attendance. The number of servants was also impressive. She rode at the head of the column with her cousin, who started to ask some amusing questions. Her responses caused the two girls to laugh. Yushahime was enjoying the ever so slightly warmer air but was even happier to find herself at the inn. It would be warmest inside afterall.
The inn, Eternal Lantern, was a sturdy building with a long history. It had a good reputation for service. However, most impressive was its size. It took up a good proportion of one of the many main streets of the city. The rooms had only been secured because another delegation had had to leave on short notice. It was quite possibly one of the few places left in the city that now had rooms free. As its name suggested, the building was decorated with many differently designed lanterns and two servants constantly saught customers outside for its other services. She had not been to it before but was pleased to discover it had its own restaurant and inner gardens as well as some servants skilled in massage and music. She didn't intend to indulge too much herself but the available services would be useful as an excuse to bring others to the inn. She did intend to indulge in its baths though...
Yushahime directed the column to the inn and eyed a servant, giving a clear sign she wished for service. It was not long before their horses were taken and the inn proprietor, a man who showed his wealth through his large stomach and opulent clothes, came to greet them. With some servants they were shown to their separate rooms and their inventory moved. The man, who introduced himself as Souten, took the opportunity to show them around.
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Bayushi Senshi
Scorpion Clan
Scorpion Clan * Clan Champion * Samurai * Kensai * Experienced * Loyal * Unique
Posts: 1,891
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Post by Bayushi Senshi on Feb 4, 2011 22:14:22 GMT -5
(OOC Clarification: Senshi is in Kyuden Bayushi, having just returned from the battlefield himself.)
A servant quickly approaches Ichiro. "Sama! I have a notice from the scorpion camp: Bayushi Senshi-sama, having received a damaging wound from a yobanjin tetsubo, has been waylayed in Kyuden Bayushi so as to more efficiently reach a healthier state. He has left the scorpion affairs in Toshi Ranbo to your more then capable hands, and reminds you to continue to follow his past orders."
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Shosuro Ichiro
Scorpion Clan
Shosuro Family Daimyo*Courtier*Diplomat*Actor*Spy
Posts: 241
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Post by Shosuro Ichiro on Feb 4, 2011 22:26:38 GMT -5
(OOC: LOL then you got my letter Senshi! ) Ichiro takes the news as well as could be expected."Very well. I want reports of resources available and current readiness of our troops, and the diversity they may represent.
"I will be at the Eternal Lantern Inn. I need to get cleaned up and rested. Bring the reports to me after evening meal and I will go over them.
"I will also need a few runners to do errands for my entourage and myself. As I have other business here as well. Now go as I want this in place as soon as possible."Ichiro turns his mount and heads towards the Inn ready for a good meal and a relaxing bath.
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Post by Kitsuki Bareian on Feb 4, 2011 22:30:46 GMT -5
The ground shook as men marched, more or less three hundred strong, towards the capital of Rokugan. Men whose eyes clearly speaks of purpose. Eyes that have accepted the finality of what they were about to undertake. Eyes that were trained not to show fear, but the courage and ruthlessness of Steel.
These men who carries the banner of the Dragon Clan, and another banner that shows the mon of the dragon but is carried in a black silk flag, known as the 36th legion of the Dragon clan, and more famously known as the Dragon Strike force "Kentetsu Ryu" lead by a chui and one of the most dangerous men to come from the Dragon clan...
Mirumoto Katsutoshi, the Steel Dragon.
* * * * * *
Katsutoshi looked downwards to where his men where marching. He had been in the outlook of the hill as he personally saw to the march.
He had taken leave of the Crab lands as ambassador to heed the call of the Capital, but to him, his motivation contained much more than the protection of the empire from yobanjin threats. He had to know the defense of the capital... had to secure methods if ever he would succeed in grabbing the seat of power from the Shogun.
He needed a plan, and it involved a certain destructive Kuni, a wily Kasuga Hatamoto, and two of the most annoying investigator he could ever have the misfortune of knowing.
Katsutoshi barked his men to march in double time... He saw the walls of the capital, and now, he takes the first step to his most deadly gambit yet.
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Shiba Kazuma
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan Champion?Samurai?Shiba's Soul?Unique?Enlightened
Posts: 369
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Post by Shiba Kazuma on Feb 4, 2011 22:33:59 GMT -5
With a deep breath Kazuma got back on his feet and picked up his traveling pack. He longed to explore all of the camps, but first there was the matter of trying to find a place to stay. He began to move into the city, he quickly started to get lost so he stopped and asked a shop keeper for directions.
Excuse me, where can I find a place that might have lodging still left in the city?
The man looked at him for a quick second and then placed his hand on his chin trying to think.
I believe I heard that the Eternal Lantern inn may still have rooms. It is just in that direction, you can not miss it.
Kazuma bowed to the man and thanked him. He proceeded down the street in the direction that the man had pointed out until he came to a large building. Kazuma gave the building a once over and then proceeded inside. Once inside he instantly saw that there were a lot of high ranking officials inside. He quickly tried to find his way to the receptionist. Once he had a room for the night he stepped away from counter and looked around the reception area looking for anyone he knew and to just see who was there.
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Shosuro Ichiro
Scorpion Clan
Shosuro Family Daimyo*Courtier*Diplomat*Actor*Spy
Posts: 241
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Post by Shosuro Ichiro on Feb 4, 2011 22:55:38 GMT -5
With his riders following behind him Ichiro made his way to the Eternal Lantern. He marveled at the size of the place, but found that it's grandiose nature served his purpose of looking a pampered fool.
He dismounted his horse and handed the reins to one of his men. He pointed to his gear one of the females grabbed his things. following three paces behind him. the others moved the mounts to the stables and then came in. By that time Ichiro was at the desk with an air of command and grace. His female attendant addressed the person at the desk.
" My lord, Daimyo Shosuro Ichiro, request hospitality worthy of his station for not just himself but his humble entourage. He has taken command of the Scorpion Army gathered in August city and will be using his rooms as receiving of runners and command staff."
She bows deeply and offer payment for the rooms upfront. Accepting the payment the man shows the group to there rooms.
"My lord also wishes to freshen up before eating his meal, as would his humble companions. We have traveled a long way and wish to wash the grime of the weary road off and make ourselves able to honor the reputation of this establishment."
As the conversation between the woman and the staff continues. Ichiro scans the area to see if he recognizes anyone about, before going to get changed.
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Kitsuki Yuushahime
Dragon Clan
This person sometimes posts things that are tl;dr
Courtier Magistrate Ambassador Daimyo
Posts: 1,140
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Post by Kitsuki Yuushahime on Feb 4, 2011 23:07:09 GMT -5
(ooc: No more new posters please. This is a good number. Hikori and Jiyuu - there are places for you too as you've been mentioned so feel free to turn up. Apologies to everyone else - this thread will grow too quickly if there are anymore of us!)
Yushahime enjoyed the tour, memorising the locations. Her cousin trailed behind, taking longer to absorb the details. Eventually Yushahime was satisfied and thanked the man. She spotted a Scorpion she had seen before at Winter Court but he seemed occupied so she left him to it. If he was still around later she decided she may say hello.
She had her servant arrange payment as she departed for her room. It was medium sized and her cousin was in the room over with the dozen other Dragon scattered along that floor. The building was three stories tall with lovely balconies all overlooking the rear of the restaurant at the front of the building and the spacious garden in the centre. The building formed a rectangle shape although some extensions had slightly deformed this. The servant rooms were tiny compared to those with status and occupied the rear side of the building; where deliveries were brought in.
Yushahime spent the next hour bathing and then changing. The baths were surprisingly quiet at the time on the female side; she only observed two samurai-ko and someone who was probably a merchant's wife due to the deference she showed. However, there was some noise coming from the male baths separated by the bamboo walls. It seemed that drinking was not prohibited in the baths. Yushahime decided she would need a clear head though. There would be some time this evening to familiarise herself with this part of the city and tomorrow she could begin negotiations, data gathering and introductions in earnest.
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Akodo Jereru
Lion Clan
Lion Clan Samurai * Kensai * Deathseeker
Posts: 62
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Post by Akodo Jereru on Feb 5, 2011 5:18:05 GMT -5
Now, that's it... here he comes. Weird that Seijuro-sensei has been silent all this time...
Jereru tried to show a neutral face when Tomatsu approached him. Serving his daimyo until death was a mission in life, not a choice he could make, anyway.
Good to see you are well and healthy, Tomatsu-sama. Fortunately, there's been no problems coming from Mountain Watch Keep. I left a group of scouts there, to see if they can find Domotai-sama's trail. If they do find anything, I have a rescuing party ready.
While speaking with Tomatsu, Jereru was constantly thinking about what to do. Tell him he was to be a deathseeker? Just tell him that he discharged responsability on Fumiaki-san? Offer his sword? What?
The feeling that Tomatsu really trusted in him, and that he owed his Champion his life, grew more and more every minute, as he was reporting the status of the troops. He could see Tomatsu was worried about his men, including him. He could see Tomatsu was a great Champion, with charisma and wits. How could someone not serve him? How could Jereru deprive his Champion of a tool as himself, useful or not? It was not Jereru's choice. He just had to do as a samurai would, and endure his shame in order to fulfill his duty. Suddenly, an inner voice started to interrupt his speech...
Aha, so now you are a coward.
...and see if my soldiers can find somwhere to camp and I AM FULFILLING MY DUTY, SEIJURO-SAMA!
Only then, looking at TomatsuĀ“s face, realized Jereru that he had shouted this in public, in front of his champion.
My Lord... if I may ask you a grace before you claim my life... let us go to a quiet tavern, and I'll explain...
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