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 12, 2011 13:14:50 GMT -5
Ah forgive me for presuming that you had passed your Gempukku, I assumed that someone of your immense skill at conversation would certainly be passed your Gempukku. You have nothing to fear from it, remember that they are designed for you to pass, otherwise, our families would die out.
He took a brief pause from the conversation to lift up his glass and give out a toast. For the glory of the Empire! With that he took another drink of his cup before returning to his conversation.
As for my Gempukku, who can hardly remember, it was about 20 years ago, if you can believe I'm that old. As you can probably guess I'm graduated the Akodo War College. His voice dropped a level where only he and her could her him as he leaned in slightly. Between you and me, I only graduated 15th in my class of 157. He leaned back smiling and returned to his normal speaking voice.
The day of my Gempukku was a stormy day at Castle of the Swift Sword. My whole family on my father's side was at our house, as you can image the place was full, everyone could only stand as there was no place to sit. We served all manner of from snack cakes to a full meal after my presentation was done. When it came time, my favorite teacher at the War College stepped up to the front of the crowd and addressed my father. I remember this moment greatly as my mother stepped to my side and took my hand, I could tell she was very proud of her only son. The teacher, Sensei-Shigaru told my father that I had graduated, with honors, and presented him with my diploma. It was then that the true test began.
He took a second to take a sip from his cup again.
As it is Akodo tradition, I had to recite all my ancestors, relating all the way back to Akodo. Luckily I had trained relentlessly for this moment since I was a small child and it went flawlessly. After that, everyone presented me with gifts, and I enjoyed being the center of attention that night. You have nothing to fear Kitsuki-san, tell me what is your Gempukku challenge like? I assume something like solving a murder? He smiled and let out a small laugh at his joke, the sake starting to effect him a little.
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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 12, 2011 13:32:21 GMT -5
Haru was glad the misunderstanding had been resolved, though she was not used to all the compliments. This was a trait she shared with her elder cousin.
Haru listened with keen interest and nodded at Tomatsu's comments about them being designed to pass. Her shoulders dropped as she relaxed again; something that was easy to do in Tomatsu's company.
She joined in the toast, but only with her tea. She couldn't hold drink well yet; her body was still growing.
She continued to nod and chuckle at Tomatsu's words and was astounded to learn he had not finished first in his class.
"Maybe my elder cousin is right then. We learn much from the world and our experiences that we don't always get in your training. I am sure you came into your own and became the... lovely... and..." she looks down abashed "erm, charming man you are today, that leads your family with such nobility, because of what you learnt after your training... Tomatsu-s-sama"
She returns the smile a little and listens to his tale about his own gempukku. She gasps at his murder comment, laughing awkwardly "I do ho-hope not!" she exclaims a little loudly, looking foolish for a second.
"I think I will really enjoy my gempukku if it is like yours. I have been told it is straight forward and I will be tested on all that I have learnt but... it is quite secretive and I have found it difficult to get any real details. I am sorry to disappoint you!"
She paused for a second, refilling Tomatsu's sake cup as her cousin seemed occupied in another conversation. "Without the Lion the Empire would be a lot less safe. I've heard much about the Lion family but never conversed with one for so long. Let alone one such as yourself sama. I-I'm glad that it is lead by someone who can speak so joyfully and honestly about his family... and enquire anything of one who has not even passed her first life test yet."
She stares into her cup, her food still left untouched.
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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 12, 2011 14:05:18 GMT -5
He nodded his thanks to the young woman, for refilling his cup. Well I am far from perfect, Kitsuki-san. I too have my own flaws. Do you know when the last time I spoke with a woman in polite company was? The burden of being the leader forces me to be in the field quite a bit. But then again, it does allow me rare chances to find out who are the promising members of the next generation of Rokugan.
If I may be so bold, if by some horrible occurrence, you do not pass your Gempukku, know that the Ikoma will always have an opening for you, as I will always have an opening on my staff for such a promising young courtier as yourself.
He leaned in, and again spoke quietly between the two.
Tell me of your cousin, what is she like? I trust your wise council, young Dragon-san.
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Post by Daidoji Hikori on Feb 12, 2011 14:39:50 GMT -5
The restaurant was almost full when Hikori arrived. He scanned the place with the corner of his eyes, his eyes widening when he saw who Yuushahime was sharing a table with. The Shosuro daimyo, the Lion Clan champion himself...
Hikori was taken to a table that had just been left empty, and made sure to be seen by Yuushahime or her yojimbo as he walked across the hall. A servant brought him some tea and a plate with seafood. He sat there observing, trying not to be seen, the table occupied by some of the empires mightiest samurai.
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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 12, 2011 15:07:40 GMT -5
Ichiro listens to the Yuushahime's question. He never paused for a second to think about it, but he paused anyways to seem he was put on the spot. His eyes go from emotionless to wistful.
"I am sorry, Lady Kitsuki, for my delay. I have been far from home a long time and have forgotten the beauties it holds. The one thing though that always comes to mind, though is the greatest garden in all the Empire, at my home Shiro no Shosuro. It is the largest of its kind in all the land.
"The second is also in my home, the Shosuro Acting school. Home to the greatest kabuki actors in the land. I have even dabbled in the school myself, though I am not as gifted as some of its stars, and teachers.
"I do hope that you would left me show you the wonders that bring me such fond memories. As I think it would be criminal to deny a lovely woman, as yourself, to see something that pales in comparison."
Ichiro nods his head to Yuushahime as he gives her the compliment. Hoping to help his mask hide is embarrassment for his forward flirtation. He then raises it again and finishes his sake. He then pushes it aside and pulls his tea cup towards him. Knowing full well he should be going back to tea for awhile.
"I could use more tea if you could, lady Kitsuki."
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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 12, 2011 16:25:51 GMT -5
Yuushahime nodded, moving her left kimono sleeve back as she lifed the pot and pour more tea for Ichiro
"Ichiro-sama, my pleasure. I look forward to arriving in the Scorpion lands. An appreciation of the arts is a fine thing"
She remarks before sitting back down. As she sat, she caught a glimpse of light blue and spotted Hikori on another table.
"I hope it does not trouble anyone to invite a friend to join us. Also I would love to hear more about the Scorpion lands. What is your favourite play Ichiro-sama? I am sure you must have a good degree of talent in your own right for you to be accepted to train with such stars"
She grinned at Ichiro for a second before quickly calling over a servant and instructinh the girl to ask the Crane samurai to join the group. The drink was starting to flow as was the conversation. Yuushahime intended to learn more about the Scorpion lands, even if only a positive story, from Ichiro while she had a chance.
Next to Yuushahime her cousin seemed at a loss for how to respond to Tomatsu's words. She could only smile at his offer, fairly sure he was joking with her. She began to pick at her food, unsure of how to tell Tomatsu that his flaws, to her, were nothing. When he asked about Yuushahime she paused to gather her thoughts, leaning away from her cousin so she would not hear.
"She is always hiding her true nature and feelings behind duty I think. My cousin is always friendly to me and loves to travel though. I'm lucky to be around her so that I can learn from her. She is very kind! Oh, and she is well regarded in Dragon lands and has recently been made the official ambassador to the Crane and Scorpion, hence Ichiro's kindness I suppose?"
Haru thought again for a moment before continuing "she has a lot of qualities I would like to possess one day... it's difficult to say what she is like though. She behaves as the situation demands it really. She probably wouldn't want me to tell all of her secrets though..." The girl concludes before having some more of her food and tea, slightly frowning in thought
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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 12, 2011 17:09:47 GMT -5
He chuckles a bit at her last statement. Oh my dear, I would never want to gain an unfair advantage over her by learning her secrets, nor would I want to put you in a position where your honor would be in question by telling me. I only inquire because I wish to get to know her better, and who better to know her than a young courtier who has traveled with her and learned much at her side. Not to mention you are family to her, and so would be in a great position to give me a judgment of her character.
He takes a moment, and decides it is best to address her trepidation. Listen my dear, I mean your cousin no harm. I myself am I self taught courtier and would not hold a candle to her in court. I wish to know what to expect when I get the chance to get to know her better. I'm sure I'm not the first man to find her a physical beauty. I'm sure you've experienced some of that attention from the younger men you've met on your travels. He placed his cup in front of him and began to spin it in his hands, to give them something to do while he talked.
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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 12, 2011 22:10:08 GMT -5
Haru nodded "I trust you Tomatsu-sama. My apologies. I haven't had nearly as much attention as you suggest though..." She gulped and then giggled for a few seconds before continuing "I don't know where to start though. If you wish to get to know her better I can tell you that she likes sweet things and, though she'd never boast about it, she takes her training very seriously. You'd do well to ask her a straight question. She usually deflects general questions, compliments and queries almost out of habit"
She began to spin her cup around, mimicking Tomatsu "You do have a light hearted side in common though" she quipped, offering a bright smile
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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 12, 2011 23:11:30 GMT -5
Ichiro looks towards the Crane member that Yuushahime mentioned. Hoping he would see his dueling teacher Katika-sensi. When he saw who it was he was both disappointed and delighted. It shall be interesting to get the opinions of a Crane Magistrate. Maybe he will even be kind enough to let his new position be dropped.
"I for one have nothing against a member of the Crane Clan in joining us. This is why I asked for the biggest table. War makes strange bedfellows, and builds strange, yet often strong alliances if not friendships."
Ichiro takes a sip of his tea relishing in fragrant smell and delicate taste. He places his cup down gently and continues.
"What is more to tell. The courts of Kyuden Bayushi are grand and tough. Teaching any courtier worth their weight in rice how to survive in a true game of Sadane. The Labyrinth are also challenging as they not only test ones memory, but their cunning and logic."
He then smiles knowingly at Yuushahime as he continues.
"I am sure with your lineage, Lady Kitsuki, that they will be both entertaining and a challenge for you."
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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 13, 2011 9:49:43 GMT -5
Ichiro goes back to sipping his tea. As he places down his cup he realized he forgot to answer one question.
"Forgive me Lady Kitsuki. I have missed answering your question about the the theater. I myself like many plays, but the ones that seem to always please me are tragedies and divine vengeance plays. They tend to stir my heart and my soul as they progress." Do you have a favorite play, or type of play for yourself?"
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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 13, 2011 12:11:25 GMT -5
I thank you for your honesty, Kitsuki-san. You have given me some good ideas. Now just to get a chance to speak to her with less people around. He smiled. Perhaps you could work as a messenger for me? Would you deliver a letter to your cousin after we adjourn for the evening? I would like to extend the hospitality of the Lion Clan to you two, if you would be willing that is.
He motioned towards a servant and ordered some snack cakes. I feel that the lion inside my stomach is beginning to roar, care to share some snack cakes with me, Kitsuki-san?
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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 13, 2011 15:41:06 GMT -5
Yuushahime looked upwards in thought for a good few seconds. Internally she debated which play would be most appropriate. "I like plays with a deeper meaning. One of my favourite was the "Death of the First Hantei". It had an insightful finish, don't you agree?"
Meanwhile Haru responded to Tomatsu "Your hospitality... that's very nice of you. Yes please. I'll do my best. I'm sure my cousin will be interested". She giggled at Tomatsu's joke and helped herself to a few of the snacks when they arrived, but not too many - making sure to have less than Tomatsu.
(ooc: Hikori and co - are they coming back? This thread was busy a while ago ^^)
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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 13, 2011 17:26:39 GMT -5
So tell me Kitsuki-san, he said as he considered which snack cake to eat next. Where have you adventures taken you and your cousin recently? I feel I have interrogated you enough about your cousin, the least I can do is change the topic. He smiled, obviously thankful for her wisdom and guidance as to how to approach her cousin later.
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Post by Daidoji Hikori on Feb 14, 2011 6:47:27 GMT -5
Accepting the invitation Hikori bows to Yuushahime
He approaches the table as the servant moves his tea and food over. "Konbanwa most respected samurai sama. This one is Daidoji Hikori, humble magistrate of the crane clan and lucky to be able to account himself as a friend to Kitsuki Yuushahime san. It is an honor to be in the presence of such great men such as yourselves."
Judging by the positions of those sited the Shosuro daimyo was acting as host. He bowed deep first to him, he bowed to Yuushahime second, Haru and Jereru after that. Last he bows to Tomatsu keeping the bow a little longer to show his respect.
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Post by Daidoji Hikori on Feb 14, 2011 6:48:21 GMT -5
(ooc: sorry...very busy couple of days...also been having trouble with my connection during the weekend...nice to be back though)
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