RP: The gathering hosts of war

[Shosuro Ichiro]

(OOC: I will not be able to post until later today, as I am meeting a friend from England today. I will be back though. Game on!)

[kasuga]

[Since no new posters, please allow this minor Cameo, after which I can happily fade into the background... I have been working on this for a while, so my response is slower than some others...]

Within the Inn, a group of minor clan samurai, sailors, ronin, and others of low status crowded in one corner. Great laughter, drinking, fortunes and winds, smoke, and the smell of fresh leek and garlic dumplings waft from their small corner.

A Tortoise Samurai, Kasuga Himiwari, wearing a homespun, thick kimono of black-blue and gold smiled, putting aside his pipe. At his side, a dour Samurai-ko, a Kasuga Vassal of the Hyobe Family, known only as "Sea-Turtle", stared out, her face ravaged by a long, uneven scar.


"My good friends and fellow Samurai... those of us who toil long, unseen by those Great Clans and their Samurai, have much to do in the next few weeks. It is true that the Lion may chase and kill the hare... but the rat may enter the Hare's burrow and force it battle the Lion. (Apologies Usagi-san, I do not, of course mean the Usagi Clan).
We will, I am sure, have dirty and thankless jobs in this battle. Our lack of size will be used to great advantage. Akodo's Leadership has many tactics which rely upon our unique traits. But we have purpose, we still serve the Son of Heaven and the Empire!
So before we take our next spin upon the wheel... take a seat, have a drink on the tab of the Tortoise, take a smoke from the fine pipes we have brought from Kyuden Kasuga, or enjoy a moment of chance with Fortunes and Winds... I salute you, my brave companions, and at the very least... can offer you a moment's respite before the serious and noble task must move into action."

General cheers move through that corner, and several drinks, especially to Mantis, Crab, Dragon, Ikoma, and others known for their durability in Inns and Taverns are given.

While the inn-keeping staff gives a somewhat dark eye to some of the activities, the silent Hyobe shows the skill with Intimidation that allows the festivities to continue.
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[Akodo Tomatsu]

A look of partial concern, partial understanding appeared on his face. Yes, let us retire to my inn, I have the best room there and it is quite large, we can enjoy some beverages and you can tell me what has been burdening you for this time. He places a hand on his shoulder to hopefully provide some comfort as he steered him in the direction of the Eternal Lantern Inn. While they walked to the Inn, Tomatsu remained silent, trying to figure out what has been plaguing one of his closest samurai.

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

By the time Yushahime had finished bathing, spotting her cousin entering as she left, and changing it was mid-evening. The sun had just begun to turn the sky orange and only an hour or two of sunlight would remain. After that the city would be lit up in certain quarters while others would be left pitch black. She was beginning to suspect that this inn would be one of the busier places as she had passed others in the corridors on the way back to her room.

She had donned a more refined and thinner deep green kimono with gold trip, her mons visible and detailed. She still had her beloved hairclip in place and her wakizashi tied neatly in her obi, tied with her favourite knot. She had a quick look at herself in her hair mirror, adjusting her hair and the neckline of her kimono. Nodding she left her chambers. The other Dragon assigned to guard duty of herself and her cousin would now for the most part be reassigned to other duties. Only two would remain, acting as the yojimbo for herself and her cousin respectively. She was pleased to see them alert and attentative as soon as she exited her room. That meant her cousin had finished bathing. That was quick for her she thought.

The loud cheering and alluring smells from the restaurant area got the better of her as she marched up the corridor to the stairs. Her room was near the front of the building and her balcony had a view right in to parts of the restaurant area. Her yojimbo, a short but muscular man called Kei, followed behind her to the left - clearly acting as her defender. Kei had only said a few short sentences in all of their journey, usually only when spoken to. He was only a bit older than Yushahime but of less than average appearance. A few prominent scars on his hands and cheek and a burn mark on his neck saw to that. She had never worked up the courage to ask him about that. Neither had Haru. She thought that her eta assistant may have done but she had not yet quizzed him on the matter. He was probably still organising things with the other servants and asking questions on her behalf somewhere in the service areas.

When she entered the restaurant she noted the surprisingly large number of peasants and ronin present. She had heard better about the inn. The only explanation was that they were well paying customers. Still, they were mostly in one of the corners of the exceptionally large room, along with some minor clan samurai. She passed her eyes over them as she gained the attention of a servant to get herself a table. She noticed one Tortiose clan samurai, from his mon, that she partially recognised. He was giving a speech quite happily and was in good spirits. He seemed to have a bodyguard from his clan too, so he must have some status. She looked up to recall where she had seen him. Ah yes, the Sadane competition at Winter Court. He had made a good showing. Almost winning in fact. Perhaps when he was surrounded by less rambunctious company she would pop over. He may have some useful information she thought.

Her table neatly occupied one side of the room, away from those of lower status. It was quieter here, though not by much, and slightly more raised off the ground. The tables were separated here by small screens but could see out over the rest of the Eternal Lantern's restaurant. Servants scurried about bringing food and drink to tables, offering their apologies for more rowdy customers who were impatient at having to wait even a second too long for their next snack. The mix of smells in the air was generally pleasant though and Yushahime had quite an appetite. She ordered some grilled food, miso soup and some tea. Tearing her attention away from the many other occupants of the room she took out some scrolls and began to jot down more notes. She found them helpful.

Her tea arrived at the same time as her cousin. She put down her scrolls and small brush and started gossiping with Haru. Her cheeks were rosey still from the bath and she was in high spirits. This settled Yushahime and she was soon in full jovial conversation with the girl. Their words and laughter joined that of the other customers and it all mingled together giving the impression of a very safe, welcoming and above all busy restaurant.

(ooc: feel free to come and say hello!)

[Toku Hirotomo]

On his way to the Lion's camp, Toku Kenpachi heard a loud voice over the crowd. "Kenpachi-kun!" Kenpachi turned to the owner of the voice and was pleased to see Matsu Aiyuki, a friend of his from his days at the Matsu Academy and a distant relative. From what Kenpachi had heard she had become a chui herself, and a member of the Lion's Pride as well. "Aiyuki-chan, it's good to see you again." She was his mother's cousin's daughter, so they were related, albiet distantly. "Lets get a drink and some decent food, Kenpachi-kun." Aiyuki said "I know a good place here." "Thank you for the invitation Aiyuki-chan, but I was hoping to discus battle plans with the Akodo." "There are almost certainly some of my cousins there." Aiyuki said pointing at thier destination. Kenpachi walked into the resturant and saw two familar faces. Kasuga-san and the Kitsuki samurai-ko that he had both met at the Sadane Match. Kenpachi took a table and begain to speak with Aiyuki about the upcoming battle.

[Akodo Jereru]

Tomatsu and Jereru arrived at the inn. There were plenty of people; samurai of very different status, ronin, servants, merchants... the smell of different teas and meals filled Jereru's nostrils. He and Tomatsu entered the inn, and looked for a free table. Jereru had a quick look over the tables, and recognized the two young samurai-ko from earlier. He couldn't help but smile; the two young ladies had helped him regain a small bit of joy. During a small second, one (or both, he could not tell for sure) of the women turned her head to his direction. Being cought smiling, the only thing he could do was to bow his head and quickly diverted his gaze from them.

I see you haven't lost your good taste, uh?

Tomatsu' words took Jereru back to reality. They took a sit, and Jereru started speaking.

My Lord, my intention when I got here was to be discharged from my duties, and join the deathseekers. But I have seen you, crowded by the command staff and other officers, and I understood you are a true Champion. I cannot fail you, this is my duty. I did, twice, back at Mountain Watch Keep, but if you still need my service, I am ready to endure such stain on my own honour, just to be useful to you.
You may know that Matsu Seijuro speaks to me sometimes. He is a wise, though demanding teacher. That's why I shouted back there at the camp. I am not saying this as an apollogy; I am telling you this, so that you know why I sometimes act a bit strange. I think it will be useful to you to know what utility you can give to your servants.
Now that we are here, I see samurai from very different assignments and status. It might possibly be a good chance to chat with some of them and know what's happening first hand? They have been here way before we arrived...

Tomatsu replied with a roguish smile:

And who do you plan on chatting to, uh?

(OOC: Tomatsu, I hope you don't mind I used "your voice" to give this a littlebit of agility: waiting for your answer to such a minimal matter would have delayed all a lot more. Sorry in advance)

[Akodo Tomatsu]

(OOC: Not a problem, you didn't say anything I wouldn't have said

He was only half paying attention to Jereru, his eyes flickering back and forth between Jereru and the Samurai-ko of the room. Perhaps he was entranced with a few of their beauty. More likely he had just spend so much time in the mud and blood of a battle that he had forgotten how humbling a woman's beauty can be.

I understand your having spirit troubles, my friend. If you feel that your duty is too great, I could consider your request for joining the deathseekers. But I urge you to consider this, you already have one spirit haunting you, should any harm come to me from me releasing you from your duty, I will certainly haunt you far worse than you already are being haunted. He smiled, clearly making a joke. For the first time since they had sat down, he made eye contact with Jereru. This is a time of great difficultly, Jereru-san, everyone has their demons to face. I need skillful, proven men at my side. Take some time while we are at court. Relax, make peace with your demons. I, no, the Lion Clan as a whole need you at your best when we face the difficulties of assembling this army. Listen my friend, let us forget we are high raking warriors, and let us celebrate our victory before the Shogun reminds us of how far we still have to go in this war.

He gestured to one of the serving girls, and whispered in her ear. She smiled, and bowed to him, before making her way over to Yushahime's table.

She bows. Forgive me, honorable Samurai-ko, but the Lion samurai over at that table have sent me to ask if it would be acceptable for them to come and speak with you. She pointed back at Tomatsu's and Jereru's table when she referred to the Lion samurai.

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

Yushahime noticed Kenpachi enter and nodded with a smile in his direction before telling Haru about him. She was quite impressed and listened earnestly. Kei, standing away from the two samurai-ko, made a miniature gesture to catch Yushahime's attention at the entrance of the two important looking Lion. Catching this, Yushahime turned towards them and caught a smile from one. She smiled back and noted that they were both Akodo family members.

She began speaking to Haru again, sipping her tea while Haru ordered a meal for the evening and some tea too. The young girl's kimono was very pretty, albeit perhaps a tad innocent with the flower petals on one side. Yushahime's own kimono was more formal and mature in comparison, though her obi had quite a few flashes of colour.

Her miso soup arrived with Haru's tea. Moments later another servant arrived and Yushahime raised an eyebrow in response to the message. Haru turned to look at the two Lion before turning back to Yushahime and giggling while giving her elder cousin a gentle prod to the shin with her foot. Yushahime sternly looked back at her sister as her face blushed lightly before she too chuckled a little, unable to discipline her mischevious cousin. The servant waited politely during this, keeping her head low.

Yushahime gave Kei a quick glance and he nodded, his hand near his katana just in case. This inn allowed visitors to keep their weapons on them if they were allowed to carry them. She gave her reply to the servant and the girl hurried back.

"Sama, the samurai-ko on that table have said it would be acceptable" The servant bows low and waits to see if there is anything else asked of her. Meanwhile Yushahime smiles broadly and makes a tiny wave as Haru grins

[Akodo Tomatsu]

She approached the table with smile born from both the awkwardness of the moment as well as the chance to preform a task that didn't require her to either travel to the kitchen or deal with an angry customer.

Lion-sans, the Samurai-ko have said that it is ok to visit them.

Tomatsu chuckles a bit and thanks her with a whole koku, to which she blinks twice, then shuffles off quickly, lest he demand it back.

Jereru-san, my friend, I am going to talk to some lovely Dragon ladies. You are more than welcome to join me. I would also understand if you would want some time to yourself to sort things out. Regardless, I wish you Ikoma's wisdom in your decision, and I will be happy to help you in anyway I can, do not hesitate to ask me.

With that he stood up, telling another serving girl to bring a bottle of sake to the Samurai-ko's table before walking to and bowing before them.

Ladies He began. I am pleased to hear that you have not turned away this humble Lion samurai. My name is Akodo Tomatsu and I was wondering if you would allow me to join you for you meal?

[Shosuro Ichiro]

After a comforting bath and fresh clothes, Ichiro replaces his normal mask with one that he could eat with. The only thing seen was his mouth and eyes. Ready to go He double checks his appearance. His Red Kimono with black scorpions and golden cuffs and hem. His hair was combed out and lose hanging past his shoulder blades, and hiding a few throwing darts, just in case. He also had a few other surprises for those moments that turn drastically.

Pleased with what he saw he and his entourage headed down to the common room for a fresh meal. Once there all he could do was sniff at the common rabble, both peasant and lesser clan. Though he did Recognize Kasuga amongst them, offering to pay for rounds. Ichiro looked at his assistant.

"Tell the Inn keeper that Kasuga-san's money is no good, while I am here. Offer him my coin instead. The Tortise has earned at least that much respect from me."

The woman does as Ichiro requests and comes back with a servant to show his group to a private area to eat. As they all walk to the area Ichiro talks loud enough to be heard through the quieter parts of the Inn.

"Once our meal is done I will need time to write to Champion Bayushi Senshi, to wish him a speedy recovery and to give him an update on the troops.

"When that is done I will need a rider dispatched to Kyuden Bayushi to deliver the message and to return with more orders. Senshi knows I am not experienced with war. I have more courtly mind, but I do follow his orders when they are for the best of the Clan."

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

(ooc: btw, forgot to say, I edited my post on page 1 and filled it. Do check it out for some more details on the inn)

Yuushahime motioned for Haru to join her on one side of the table as the confident looking Akodo made his way over. She observed the request for sake, vaguely hearing the words over the noise of the restaurant while reading the lip movements, and began to doubt her decision. She'd wanted to avoid drinks for the evening but now that appeared to be impossible. She continued to smile though as he arrived.

Haru swayed side to side in excitement at meeting someone new as Yuushahime nudged her to control herself. However, both of them gulped in surprise as he revealed his name. It could not be mistaken. The name Tomatsu was not exactly common. They laughed nervously, feigning embarassment. This time Haru returned the nudge, unsure how to act to address a Clan Champion in such an informal setting. Yushahime was momentarily lost for a couple of seconds and all she could do was gesture awkwardly at the other side of the table to accept his offer.

She could hardly turn him down now, knowing who he was. Nonetheless she had one advantage potentially - he may not know who she was. She smiled and sipped her tea, avoiding eye contact as was etiquette. Haru watched her cousin and did the same.

"How refreshing to have such polite company in such a large city, one would think it empty as each goes about their business in a bubble. We humbly thank you for your joining us. It will surely enliven our meals. My name is Kitsuki Yuushahime" she bowed her head, annoyed she could not stand and bow properly as it would betray her knowledge of the man's position. She gestured to her cousin "and this is Kitsuki Haru-chan". The much younger and small girl bowed her head to the stranger too, her eyes now fixed on her tea cup.

All three noticed as the Scorpion delegation moved past, hearing his words regarding their champion. Yuushahime was surprised at him broadcasting the wound to their leader

"Oh my, for such a glorious man to be injured. How dreadful" she exclaimed in a hush tone so only those present at the table could hear

[Akodo Tomatsu]

He takes his seat and frowns slightly. Yes it is, he was wounded saving my life, but not a few days ago.

He smiled as the woman placed the bottle of sake, and a cup in front of him. Oh how rude of me, being so long from the company of refined women such as yourselves, would you care to join me in some sake? And I can tell by the looks you know of my name, well please, for tonight ladies, I am simply Akodo Tomatsu, victor over the Yobanjin, no need to treat this as a diplomatic function, I merely wish to converse with some find ladies such as your selves.

He smiles as he pours himself a cup of sake, only half full.

[Shosuro Ichiro]

Ichiro noticed the Lion Champion sitting with Yuushahime. He was a little surprised, but quickly recovered. He also breathed a sigh of relieve. The Envoy made it safely to the Capital, and with luck this very same Inn. Now he just needs to make sure she makes it to her stops safely.

As he and his people are seated he makes sure he can keep an eye on all both above and below. He then motions for his aid and whispers in her ear. She nods, rises and heads to the table occupied by the Lion and the Dragon.

When she arrives she bows deeply in respect for Tomatsu.

"My Lord, Daimyo Shosuro Ichiro, humbly offers to share his large table with the August Akodo Tomatsu, Champion of the Lion Clan, to the every radiant Kitsuki Yuushahime, and their respective companions. He wishes to know the Champion better and reacquaint himself with lady Kitsuki-sama.

"My Lord has tired of present company and wishes to liven up his world with the diversity of this grand gathering within the Capital. Will you accept his kind and gracious offer?"

The woman never raises her head, out of respect of Tomatsu. Waiting for a reply.

[Akodo Jereru]

Good evening, ladies. My name is Akodo Jereru.

Jereru said that with a small smile. Smiling openly would show someone to be overenthusiastic, even lecherous if before women. Not smiling at all would be rude. He bowed and continued talking.

You may have to forgive me; Tomatsu-sama is always faster than me. I hope he has been fast enough to offer you a drink.

Jereru took sit, as he thought he had been given permission by the ladies' consentment on joining them. Reasking a question only makes you seem dumb.

Why am I so nervous? Relax, man, enjoy and stop trying to control everything. Sometimes there are no hidden messages in every wind's blow.

There was something in the spontaneousness og the girls that made Jereru feel fresh. He had endured a battle, a difficult situation, and his honour was under question, by his ancestor and by himself. But then at the inn, all these things seemed to have happened a long time ago.

Yes, I am a soldier, and I like it. But some relax won't do me bad. Now, stop thinking, and say something, you idiot...

Eh... I guess there's plenty of people here, uh? Yeah, nice start, Mr. Casanova... I.. um... I supose you have already presented yourself to Tomatsu... Keep that way, you're fixing it... I am well pleased to know you Oh, c'mon!!!

Jereru smiled like an idiot and lowered his gaze. He then noticed he had had no time to wash nor change himself.

Perfect. You are here with two girls, and you stink like a pig and stutter like an adolescent. What else could go wrong?

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

Yuushahime leaned forward and poured the sake to fill Tomatsu's cup "as you wish Tomatsu-sama" she said simply.

Yushahime is midly relieved when Ichiro's messenger invites them to another table. As she finished and waited on a reply Tomatsu's companion arrived at Yuushahime's table and introduced himself. He seemed less confident than his Lord and slightly scruffier from battle. On the other hand he was perhaps easier to relate to. Haru returned his smile, happy to have other company apart from Tomatsu who dwarfed her status.

"We are pleased to know you too Jereru-sama" Yuushahime replies, presuming the man to be of high rank to be with the Clan Champion so informally.

"I am Kitsuki Yuushahime and this is Kitsuki Haru". She continues smiling even after having to repeat herself. She then turns to Tomatsu and nods her head to show she does not mind where they sit. He takes a moment to sip some of his sake to make it easier to carry before standing up in reply. It seemed they would be moving. Yuushahime thought quickly, just to be cautious, to see if this was a political trap or a set up. She did not feel it was and was starting to relax.

Yuushahime nodded to Ichiro saying "Thank you for your kind offer Ichiro-sama" before bowing as she arrived at his table. Rei followed the group over and waited nearby as Yuushagime and the others took seats on the larger table. Some of the other customers has quietened down and were evidently gossiping about the situation; having so many different great clan members on the same table was unusual. Some also knew the status of the parties. Yuushahime and Haru were pleased to have their meals arrive at this time - the servant bringing them taking extra care to show deference and to make no mistakes. However, all of the parties' attention was focussed on each other. Yuushahime decided not to eat yet and wait for more conversation first. Her cousin anxiously started to fiddle with her kimono.