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 14, 2011 19:43:36 GMT -5
"Do as you wish. You always did. Stubborn Ox" He sighed "I did misunderstand. The Doji make fine matchmakers. I'm glad you've had some success in court. I still picture you as more a warrior though, not least because I had heard of some of your accomplishments alongside our hosts. Still, not all bushi directly fight battles you know - some do just hunt and some fight battles by hunting information. That's how I like to picture myself at least" he let out a small chuckle and then finished his drink.
He then moved towards Shizuyo so he could whisper to her "Maybe I should reverse this situation on you and loudly proclaim your interest in Doji men?". He leaned back and ran a hand over his shaven head, pretending he had said nothing while watching for Shizuyo's response.
After a moment he asks "What have you learnt since we last talked them? And what do you intend to do in the future? I have heard you have a certain pull with some of the other minor clan families. I was impressed to hear it"
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Kasuga Shinobu
Tortoise Clan
Tortoise Clan ? Courtier ? Smuggler ? (S)he ? Taihan Boss
Posts: 250
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Post by Kasuga Shinobu on Feb 14, 2011 20:00:48 GMT -5
Shizuyo gave a soft laugh. Her smile was genuine and warm, and she had no real with to hide it either. "I am still more of a warrior, yes. Much of my time in the courts has been spent as a guard or a basic representative. My mother used to teach me some sword remember, let alone dueling. I'm... still no where near a Kakita or Mirumoto, I'm not sure I ever will be, but I've always had it in my blood."
Her smile lessens as she settles in, nodding at his questions and statements. "I've had some success with the other minor clans, yes. I was on the war front helping to scout and I did a little messenger work between the different Alliance members. I intend to keep traveling, delivering messages, at least for the foreseeable future... but if Okaa-sama manages to get me married... we'll have to see what happens. I might have to settle down, or start teaching others how to scout or ride!"
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Kuni Kaymar
Crab Clan
Crab Clan * Damiyo * Shugenja * Witch Hunter * Jade * Earth *
Posts: 162
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Post by Kuni Kaymar on Feb 14, 2011 21:05:58 GMT -5
Blinking furiously, Kaymar battled furiously with his heavy eyelids. Obviously the tea wasn't going to be enough. Pushing himself up from the table the Crab slowly made his way to exit the hall.
A few hours sleep, he thought, and should his champion wish to hear his report, well, Junti would wake him - and perhaps better that the report be given by someone not liable to start snoring in his presence neh?
Kaymar exited, leaving those busy partying to their devices as he retreated to the Kuni holdings - giving strict instructions to be woken no later than 4 hours.
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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 14, 2011 22:38:23 GMT -5
"Hearing you two speak of the girls from your clan is refreshing. There is much venom in scorpion words, but our little girls can be particularly vicious at times. A female bushi of a more straightforward clan could do much to shake things up if in a position of power in the Scorpion."
Senshi looked to the others, "Well, should we rejoin the festivities? And find an artist to commission the work?"
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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 15, 2011 10:59:36 GMT -5
"You can fight well from a horse though. That's a glorious skill not many Kakita or Mirumoto can boast about being very experienced in. Still, better humble that boastful" he noted sincerely before helping himself to some of the snacks and some further sushi. He acquired a plate and pulled some chopsticks from within his kimono and began to eat, emitting sounds of approval to show his enjoyment of the food.
"The Crab have outdone themselves I feel. Usually Crab lands are very practical but there is a homely-ness here that I could get used to" he stated, in between mouthfuls.
After he finished he went back to his drink. At last he was starting to get a good buzz "Whatever happens happens. At least if you do have to settle down in the near future you can now be confident of having some valuable experience to pass on to them, ne? So, changing the subject, tell me - is there anyone here that is interesting and worth meeting?". He gave a sly grin, leaving any that may be watching to wonder if he meant that literally or if he was talking about an attractive woman.
Tanemune enjoyed using his position and age as an excuse for forgo some of the normally expected etiquette in Rokugan. The bonuses of drink and being in Crab lands made this even easier. Still, Shizuyo could tell he was joking and genuinely wished to know who else of importance was attending.
"I did not ask the guards or servants. No doubt they would not have told me for security reasons. I have heard that the Scorpion and Lion Champions are here though. Nobody could miss them"
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Hiruma Kenchu
Crab Clan
*Crab Clan *Scout *Hero *Magistrate
Posts: 36
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Post by Hiruma Kenchu on Feb 15, 2011 14:56:28 GMT -5
As Hiruma Kenchu approaches the castle he nods swiftly to himself at the sight of the familiar sight of the jutting towers. It had been a couple of months since he had been this far east but with his training with his dojo he was taught through practical experience the ways of the lands. His light scout armour was of high quality and more importantly to Kenchu was that it was of the highest practicality. At the moment though his armour was tarnished from travel and the toil of the road with dirt and dust covering him and to the most observant will notice some damage from a cut by a strange blade.
As he arrives in the castle inself he mutters to his steed "Back to the Yasuki Palace in seems our path has lead, Black Yasuki Estates, indeed... At least there is good hospitality." The Hiruma dismounts and walks with his steed toward the gate and shouts to the guard. His voice was strong and clear across the distance.
"Hail, brothers. It is I, Hiruma Kenchu. I have a message from the North front and I humbly ask that I may speak to my lord and clan champion when he is next available."
When asked he hands over his travel papers and his chop of authority to be verified and is led towards the courtyard.
Before his mount is led away he pats the mount softly, asks that the steed be treated well as it has done its duty and whispers a quiet few words deep into its ear "My thanks, swift friend Oomah.". Kenchu takes the satchel sized message packet from the saddlebags and carries it lightly on his back.
Kenchu takes the water that has been pre offered by the servants takes a sip of water and washes his face and hands. At the request of the wardens he passes his yumi and arrows after unstringing the bow.
Before he enters the hall proper he tries his best to straighten his cloak to not much avail and without fanfare passes through the door into the main hall.
Kenchu is rather a thin man of medium height and wearing dark colours of the Hiruma scout school, he wears the Hiruma mon on his breast and at his side hangs his full daisho. A soft smile seems to be always close to his lips and his face has strong lines to it. His eyes are his most striking feature and they seem to be swift and piercing, what you would expect of a so trained tracker.
He nods his recognition to the guards on the doors, bows politely to the assemblage and waits slightly to one side for either his turn to be spoken to by the champion or to be approached by one of the other guests.
Kenchu realises that he recognises no-one by sight but waits calmly and relaxed in the hall, as if after a long time he could breath only the slightest bit more easily and such relief felt wonderful.
He smiles and passes comment to one of the nearby courtiers; "I am impressed as how the noble Yasuki have been able to organise such a great display; it truly shows their skills in being able to run such a well attended and well arranged event. Very impressive, indeed."
Kenchu nods almost to himself and looks around at those in the hall, and noting the wide array of noble samarai, high and low ranks of many clans. The colours of kimonos and cloaks and mons intermingled and flow as if the whole room is alive and in his mind he remembers an old Hiruma dojo practise exercise and he figures out each of the courtiers directions and relationships based on who talks to whom and what nods and glances between the certain groups of noble guests.
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Kasuga Shinobu
Tortoise Clan
Tortoise Clan ? Courtier ? Smuggler ? (S)he ? Taihan Boss
Posts: 250
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Post by Kasuga Shinobu on Feb 15, 2011 17:36:13 GMT -5
Shizuyo ate a good bit of sushi as her father's friend spoke, looking around. The place was still a quiet murmur, not like it had been in the capital or Crane courts, but still mostly civilized, despite the copious amount of sake being passed around.
As Tanemune asked who was around of interest, Shizuyo got a distant look a moment before responding. "There were , I believe, a few lovely Crane maiden that I saw walking around fans fluttering Oji-sama, though if I recall correctly, I should note instead that Bayushi maiden I heard rumors circulating about." She gave a lightly playful smirk at this before looking down once more at her sushi, taking a small piece delicately. "Still, if you are asking my own opinion, the new champion is quite grand. Hida Setsuro-sama is a true leader in these hard times... did you know I saw him fighting once, at a battle up at Face of the East Castle. He seems to have the patience and gregarious nature even a Hida needs to lead however."
She paused to take the barest sip at her sake cup. Only out on the plains would she drink more than she knew she could reasonably take, and she didn't want to get too bad around all these strangers. "Though I suppose I should note, that Utaku maiden... Haruka-san I believe was her name... I was quite impressed by her skill and beauty. I'm sure she will turn quite the heads at the head table."
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Post by Hida Setsuro on Feb 15, 2011 18:41:15 GMT -5
Moments later, Haruka, Senshi, Tomatsu and Setsuro finally arrived back at the hall of the main festivities. Haruka's win in the hunting competition had been announced and there was now to be drinking and more celebrating. After that would be the Sumai competition if there was time for it, but a few words were also announced that there would be an art commission for a single artist or pair of artists to illustrate the three champions together. Multiple winners could occur, but they would pick the ones that were of the best quality.
Setsuro finally addressed the crowd gathered and started off with a bow, not a low bow, but a bow none the less. "I am honored by the attendance to this celebration. You not only honor me, but my ancestor and my clan. I am happy that you celebrate with us and welcome you to continue the celebration after this short break. It will be a sumai competition out in the center ring that has been prepared. If you can not find it, servants will direct you there. Thank you all." Once more the large Crab Champion bowed, showing his respect for the people that had attended, and then took a few steps back to where Senshi and Tomatsu were.
"Part of me is slightly disappointed that no other Champions showed. I had assumed they would..especially the Mantis." Covering his mouth, Setsuro frowned just a bit but then shook it off and took on his normal stoic face.
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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 16, 2011 15:12:13 GMT -5
He turned to the other champions and spoke so that only they can hear them. Gentlemen, I think I will go mingle with the crowd for a while, see who else has graced us with their presence. Let me know if you need anything of me, I shall return in a while, once things quiet down again.
He bowed. Again Setsuro-san, congratulations, no other son of Hida would be worthy of this position.
He then walked into the crowd, making his way to a gather of snack cakes. Ah he mused to himself I do so have a weakness for these things, but just once, I wish someone would serve a banquet at these events. I have to be here for hours on end, why can we not have one long meal? He realized he was shaking his head at the snack cake in his hand. He stopped and smiled, realizing how ridiculous he looked, and took a bite of the cake.
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Post by Utaku Kasumi on Feb 16, 2011 20:19:54 GMT -5
She was standing somewhere near the corner of the hall - trying to figure out what's going on, who's who and who's not. Rubbed nose while thinking hard about many things. Just before Champions arrived back to the hall, she sneaked outside, trying to avoid people.
Kael, is it ready? she has asked one of men that came here with her. Man with hair just like Kasumi's nodded to her question, answering without a word. Then it's good. Let me get ready.
As fast as she could - she has changed her clothes. Wearing a fancy, purple kimono with white patterns, she checked if everything is on the right place... a few times, before leaving.
Kael, it's time.
A few minutes later she has entered the hall alone, and approached a new champion of the Crab Clan. Greetings, Hida-sama she bowed and her loose hair touched the ground. I came to congratulate you, as a new Champion of the Crab Clan. said with a poker face Let me show you my respect to you by giving you something that we, Utaku, value the most. Turned her head and waved gently - few seconds later redhaired man entered the Hall bringing black as a void foal. Another man came in, carrying a huge, wodden box. This is Keigo she touched foal's mane, emblazoned with purple beads He is the second foal of my Kelero and the best stallion of my stable smiled gently to the horse that poked her hand. I hope you can use him well, Hida-sama. Of course, if you want to train him as a battle horse, it would be my honor to help you. she bowed again to Setsuro. Second gift is something that can be used by you on the Wall. nodded to the man holding a huge box. When he has opened it - everyone could see a tetsubo... yes, nothing special for a Crab. But this one was different. Studs were made of jade, polished and ornamented. I hope it will lay good in your hand, Hida-sama she bowed once again. Didn't smile while looking at Setsuro, but she was looking straight into his eyes.
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Post by Hida Setsuro on Feb 16, 2011 20:46:27 GMT -5
Finally a moment had come for Setsuro that he was unsure if it would ever happen. Utaku Kasumi made her appearance with gifts. She did so in a stunning fashion with her wonderful kimono, one that was either really similar to the one he saw her in before or the exact same. While she was able to speak and bow without managing to smile, Setsuro had no issue with remaining stoic, but on the inside he was more than impressed. If it had been just the two of them and no one else here, he would have done something quite inappropriate and definitely more than just one breech of etiquette.
"Utaku Kasumi.." Setsuro paused as his mind flashed back to the battle front and their first meeting, "It is an honor to have you here." His eyes shifted to the horse and the Tetsubo, particularly eying the the arching back of the horse. It was an honor for anyone to receive an Utaku steed, especially someone outside of the clan. Very few people were granted such an honor, The Emperor himself had access to them, he knew this, but sometimes Clan Champions were allowed such an honor, and it truly was an honor.
Setsuro refused the gifts three times before he accepted them, and once he did he took another long look at the horse before his eyes turned to Kasumi, "I would appreciate if you would help me train this mighty steed. I am confident that he would make an amazing battle horse and companion." He bowed once and then looked towards the tetsubo, "And that will serve me well upon the wall. I look forward to crushing many tainted creatures with it and one day passing it onto my children so that they may do the same." He bowed once more and finally gave her a slight smile. Even with Senshi and Tomatsu in the crowd, he could not help but show his appreciation of her..her specifically and not just the gifts.
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Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
OOC Cleanup Crew
Samurai? Battle Maiden? Cavalry? Paragon of Courage? Friend of the Lion
Posts: 1,054
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Feb 16, 2011 21:00:56 GMT -5
Haruka sighed to herself as she stood a pace behind Senshi, it was actually quite clear that his eyes were lingering on her but indeed the honor was steep and his humility was slightly refreshing. It seemed much more evident now why he'd come off as so mildly interested in her victory from earlier. His mind was clearly on another Utaku.
She quietly pondered that they might speak later on matters of perhaps another gift, but the Utaku had given graciously already, but who knows, perhaps the greatest gift would be to come. She did bow her greeting to her superior as their eyes met and kept silent for the time being.
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Hiruma Kenchu
Crab Clan
*Crab Clan *Scout *Hero *Magistrate
Posts: 36
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Post by Hiruma Kenchu on Feb 16, 2011 22:01:01 GMT -5
Kenchu saw his new lord enter the hall and he was taken aback by the raw power of the great warrior. He had heard rumours of Setsuro's epic deeds on the Wall and some stories told across the scout fires of his battle prowess in leading Hida troops but now the Hiruma felt that nothing was beyond such a hero and the stories did no justice to this heroic figure as if from legends.
With the Unicorn champion offering such generous and rare gifts Kenchu was impressed and his heart beat swiftly as he catches a glimpse of the foal. He nods in appreciation and speaks softly to those around him.
I am no expert by any means but I have to admit that throughout my years of the battlefields and as a courier and messenger that is without a doubt the most impressive steed I have laid eyes on.
The Hiruma realizes that his champion would be busy for a while before being able to hear or read his quick report from the north but the servants would either tell his lord and then the scout would be summoned or they would pass on the summary he had handed to the Battle Warden outside and if the Crab champion had any questions he could summon the scout at his will. In any case, he understands he has time at this moment and with the same thought he remembers that he hasn't eaten fully in many days. The Hiruma makes his way towards the aforementioned snack cakes and spots Akodo Tomatsu. He approaches the champion and bows very deeply to the other warrior.
I beg your pardon for this interruption, Lord Akodo-sama but I feel that it is only right that I pass on my personal thanks for the great acts by those of your clan and under your leadership. I have just traveled from the north and the skirmishing on the steppes and the great battle siege of the Mountain Keep. The Lion that I fought next to were true examples of courage and nobility in the heat of conflict and whom honoured their noble ancestors by their stunning deeds, their adherence to Bushido in the thick of the bloodiest combats and their knowledgeable use of tactics. I feel humbled myself by being able to stand next to them back to back and to help able to help them being being their eyes and senses. My thanks to your clan and your noble self.
Kenchu bows deeply again and any can see the pride in his face at the remembrance of the battle and falls silent once more.
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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 16, 2011 22:16:17 GMT -5
Senshi watched from Setsuro's side as Kasumi brought in her gifts. He was actually quite stunned that the woman, who had to be half of Senshi's age, was in a position to gift such a wonderful thing as an Utaku steed. He nodded appreciatively of the gift, and its accompanying tetsubo, pleased that he wasn't the only one who thought such a gift worthy and befitting the new champion.
Rather then stay glued to Tomatsu, and still feeling the effects of the sake from before, he turned to pose a question to Haruka. Softly, so as not to be heard by Setsuro, "Forgive me, my memory is slipping, what can you tell me of Kasumi-san? I've never heard that name before, or perhaps I have simply forgot."
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Bayushi Haruka
Scorpion Clan
OOC Cleanup Crew
Samurai? Battle Maiden? Cavalry? Paragon of Courage? Friend of the Lion
Posts: 1,054
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Post by Bayushi Haruka on Feb 17, 2011 1:50:53 GMT -5
Haruka nodded politely, but her voice sank to a delicate whisper in Senshi's ear and out of sight behind Tomatsu. "Utaku Kasumi is the finest Utaku alive, truly the most well known and by far the most honorable, I'm surprised you haven't heard really. Most recently she was in the Far Watch Keep battle most recently and performed alongside Setsuro-sama and myself, although I missed her after the battle I digress."
But yes, she is in line to rise to champion status..." She seemed to stop a bit as that was all there was to contribute, or something to be left unsaid for now.
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