Letter to the Kitsuke

[Toku Hirotomo]

A lone Monkey travels the difficult road to Shiro Kitsuke. The road was more difficult than the courier was used to. He was told that the trio of castles was the easiest to reach in all of the Dragon lands. He shuddered to think of the other Dragon estates. Arriving at the gates of the center castle, he was stopped by several guards. After showing his travel papers he was seated in a waiting room. The daimyo would see him as soon as possible he was told. The halls were unusual to the young Monkey. The waiting room doubled as a library. He looked at the shelves, many of the books were quite old, and he knew of a few magistrates that would pay dearly for an hour peering into the law books.

The young Monkey was brought tea. Toku Kenpachi-sama had trusted him. There were rumors that his wife’s death had strange conditions, but there was a tight lipped feeling around the estate. “Give this letter to the Kitsuke Daimyo and only the Daimyo.” He was told. The young Monkey felt unease at the way Kenpachi looked now days. He was once well known for his comical outlook, even in battle. His wife’s death must have taken its toll on him.

The young Monkey was brought before the daimyo. The young samurai had never been in the presence of such luminosity. He prayed that he would bring his family honor.

“Kitsuke-dono.” The young samurai said carefully speaking each word. “I bring a letter from Toku Kenpachi-sama, my lord.” The young man bowed low and gave the letter.

The letter was on a paper of pure white and had the scent of aloe. Opening the letter, each word was intricately drawn, but with a hint of sadness in each stroke.

“Kitsuki-sama,
I wish I was able to write on a happier subject, I find myself in need of aid. My wife and youngest son were murdered recently by unknown assailants. The wisdom of your family has brought the light of justice to the Empire on countless occasions. I beg you to bring that light to my home. Without justice, I fear my family will never be at peace and will be unable to leave Medio. I fear that an old enemy of mine hides in the shadows. Unfortunately, as a Magistrate, my enemies have become numerous. I cannot make any sense of the carnage they have wrought. I have instructed my messenger to wait as long as you need to offer a reply. I am aware of the difficulties that the Empire has had recent in times and I know one lone voice in the company of greater worries is barely heard. I only ask that you give a moment of your valuable time to helping my family.
Sincerely,
Toku Kenpachi”

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

Yuushahime had passed on a message to the guards to allow the man through more quickly than normal when she heard who he was acting for. Toku Kenpachi? She had not seen him in some time. An interesting and gifted man. She wondered what he could be writing for? Official business? She would find out. Freeing her duties until later in the day, Yuushahime made time and had the young Monkey messenger escorted into her meeting room after she finished one other matter. The messenger was allowed to keep his wakizashi and only one guard remained in the room. The large pile of neatly stacked scrolls to Yuushahime's left and the calligraphy set and stamp to the right of her spoke about what she had spent the day doing so far.

She smiled at the newcomer, dipping her head towards him as he bowed and to his credit carefully issued his message. Yuushahime gestured for him to step forward to hand the message to her as she remained quiet, sensing the man's sombre air. This was clearly a more serious matter. That picqued her interest even more though she felt ever so slightly uneasy. She took the message lightly in her right hand, her left hand holding her long kimono sleeve to keep it off the table though it appeared clean.

Drawing the message back to her and inspecting it, the scent of aloe was unmistakeable. What sadness was contained? She felt a slight urge to ask the messenger but etiquette demanded she read the message first before making enquiries.

Her heart leapt as she read. Kenpachi had taken a severe blow. She felt immense sympathy for him. She could certainly help at least. She was not sure if she herself could attend now, on what could be a blood feud. She was not a magistrate in Monkey lands either. But she knew others and had her own connections and could pull strings at least. She needed to know more. She chose her words carefully.

"Thank you for bringing this to me Toku-san. I trust the trek was not too tiresome and the hospitality satisfactory so far. We are gifted in our reverence for the law in these lands. This news of tragic murder you bring me is in breach of that and I can certainly offer you and your Lord, Toku Kenpachi-sama, assistance in pursuing justice in this matter. He also has my deepest condolences...". Yuushahime respected and admired the Monkey for his wit and tact and could say this sincerely. She showed him this respect with the way she named him fondly. However, she had to know more before she could commit to anything beyond more simple measures. Her face was stoic, her smiling mask now gone for the first time in recent memory.

"You are welcome to stay here before returning to the lands of the Toku. I will construct a reply for your Lord. Before I can do that, describe in your own words all that took place and what assistance Kenpachi-sama would ask. Be open in this. My time is now yours, so please do not waste it. There is much in turmoil in the Empire at present and great uncertainty but we cannot have villains commit such atrocities as this. If Kenpachi-sama has need to ask of aid then the matter must be severe indeed. You have my ear, gather your thoughts and speak when ready..."

Yuushahime nodded to the guard who issued some quick commands so that servants soon brought some tea and light refreshments. He then bowed to both occupants of the room and stepped outside, closing the door behind him before standing attently outside. She felt she could trust this messenger

[Toku Hirotomo]

The young Monkey took his tea and paused to remember his Lord’s exact words. “Toku Kenpachi-sama has only the desire of knowledge. The matter will be brought before the Imperial Court as only they will be able to resolve the issue and deliver proper punishment. My Lord wants justice, not vengeance. A blood feud would take resources away from the war in the north. No one should desire this. Once the issue is resolved it will remain so. My Lord has sent a rider to Toshi Ranbo to ask the Emerald Magistrates to assist with the matter remaining between just the culprit and my Lord. Without adequate information on who committed the atrocity, there can be no justice however.” The messenger paused for a moment unsure to admit the following then continued praying that he was serving his Lord properly. “My Lord is very distraught by this matter. He remains with the only survivor of the attack, as a commoner her word means nothing, but my Lord has been listening to her carefully. She speaks of men in black kimonos. One had one eye, the others were most likely Ronin. Also, the Katana that slew my Lady and Young Lord was of...Lion make.” The messenger hesitated at that last bit. This was no time for wild accusations, but the implications were clear. “My Lord does not want to form unclear thoughts. He values the capabilities of the Kitsuki in relying on evidence rather than words.”

The young samurai took a deep breath. “My Lord has also given me a Writ that proclaims the bearer a full magistrate in my Lord’s estate for the duration of the investigation.” He reaches out to give it to Kitsuki-dono.

His duty complete, the young Monkey slightly relaxed. “As to the hospitality of your land, Kitsuki-dono, I am honored to receive the treatment I have been given. Though my trip has been grave, I shall remember the honor I have been given by my gracious hosts, for as long as I live.”

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

Yuushahime listened, nodding occassionally to show she was following. The words were hard for the man to say. They answered some questions at least. Though they also led to more questions. Still, that was the way of the world.

"I can agree with the need to seek justice and not vengeance and admire your Lord's restraint. He has taken the correct steps to resolve this matter. I think I have a better idea of what he asks now. Of course, evidence must be interpreted correctly. The blade could have been planted for example. Someone who dishonourably commits a crime could easily commit further dishonourable acts, such as casting aspersions on others."

Yuushahime offered her thoughts before the man then offered her the writ, explaining its purpose. She seemed somewhat surprised; it was unusual. Opening it she saw it was signed by the Toku Champion. Out of habit, Yuushahime scanned it cautiously to make sure it was authentic. She could find no fault with it. She then turned back to the messenger as he offered some kind words, finally revealing a smile briefly.

"I am glad you like it here. I apologise that our lands are still cold from Winter but am pleased you are finding us to be gracious hosts. Please though, you have only been here a short time and we have made only offered the hospitality befitting of one that could make the climb. You were meant to arrive here. I can see that now.

She paused, carefully laying the writ down on the table infront of her. She then looked the messenger in the eyes, her eyes more serious again

"I have one query before I craft a reply, one I believe your Lord will find favourable. This man with the one eye... who is he and is he still alive?"

[Toku Hirotomo]

The young Monkey smiled at the Daimyo's words. He felt a flush of pride at her saying he was ment to be here. He prayed that the flush did not reach his face. Toku-sama had given him a great gift in his choosing him as messenger."My lord knows of only one man with one eye. Though he did not see this man, and as you have wisely spoken, the posibility that the Lion are mearly a diversion from the real culprit. Akodo Tomatu is the only man my Lord knows with one eye. He's never given offence, and has always treated my Lord with the utmost respect." the young Monkey's brow furrowed. "There is little connection to him. The last time my Lord saw him was during last fall. He was visiting the Matsu Bushi School. There was some unplesant buisness with a rival of my Lords and Akodo-san stepped forward to mediate."

The young Monkey leaned forward slightly. "My lord knew that the writ is uncommon. Many of our magistrates went with the army to the battle. Though there are many that remain, objective reasoning is what will make justice prevail. "He chose to take the path where it would be difficult to refute the objectivity of the magistrates investigating. It will make the entire ordeal easier for the Empire."

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

(ooc: I've understood the young Monkey to be pre-gempukku or a servant, as he did not introduce himself. Please correct me if i am wrong)

Yuushahime tapped her chin thoughtfully as she was told about the one eyed man. "I see. Thank you for the information"

After the Toku messenger had concluded she nodded her head and concluded the meeting, thanking him for delivering the message and asking him to rest for the evening. To leave as the darkness fell would be dangerous on the walk down the Kitsuki paths...

Yuushahime attended to the business she had delayed earlier and found herself finally free of duties and quite exhausted a few hours later. After this she had begun venturing back to her estate, constantly using her fan to hide her sighing at the need for guards as well as the messengers who tried to bring her more work. She postponed further business until the next day. She was glad when the front of her home was in view and her servants greeted her. Eatting a light meal and taking an extended bath had been the first items on her agenda. The warmth from the food and then the hot water helped her relax. The Toku matter was still on her mind. She spent some of the evening thinking of a response, sleeping on the matter when she decided she was still uncertain. Only after her morning meditation had she concluded how best to answer the matter.

Back in her chambers in the castle, she prepared the following response

Toku Kenpachi-sama,

I pray you are well and have had some success in your efforts since you wrote your message to me. I am saddened to hear of your loss. It is a shame that we must share our first letters over such a tragedy.

I was surprised to hear that you had heard of my appointment as the Daimyo of the Kitsuki family; an honour I feel I am not worthy of though I do my best to serve and uphold my duty.

I admired your performance in the Winter Court and could tell you were a just man of sound convictions. I will of course offer you what little aid I can.

May I express my sincerest gratitude for your forethought in sending me the magisterial Writ that will be required for the Kitsuki to assist in your investigations. I believe that together we shall be able to solve this puzzle and interpret the evidence in a way that leads up to those responsible. They will be brought to justice - the Empire is threatened when ronin can openly attack samurai estates and kill innocents. I do not believe it is irresponsible of me to send an investigator to assist you - your status within the Toku is well known and the Dragon are always keen to improve relations. We also cannot stand to see atrocities such as this go unpunished.

On a side note, your messenger was polite and informative; which is to be commended. He admires you greatly. I could sense from him a small part of how deep your loss is and I could also feel his belief in the need for justice and his respect for yourself.

You have taken the right steps so far in regards to investigations. I thank you for keeping such a sound mind under such difficult circumstances.

I cannot depart from my duties nor can I commit many investigators to this cause with the yobanjin war ongoing. However, I can assist with information gathering and intelligence. You will find the one who accompanies your messenger can provide you with much more. She will be in your care and I trust she will do well, as she always has. I have instructed her to update me reguarly but please do contact me if you have any particular need of anything. You will find the Dragon can expediate much in the Empire.

Once again you have my deepest condolences. May your departed and honoured relatives, sworn retainers and servants find their way and be there to one day welcome you with smiles.

Yours sincerely,

- Kitsuki Yuushahime

Ps) Good hunting Kenpachi-sama

Yuushahime ties the letter neatly with a single purple ribbon, adding a white anemone flower into the ribbon, before adding it to an envelope along with a few drops of verbena perfume. She seals it with her own Mon, a stylised Dragon with a fan, as well as the Kitsuki Mon. This message is completed by late morning and a courtier takes this to the Toku messenger.

He is given ample lodgings, food and drink while he stays there. He also has the chance to peruse the Kitsuki libraries further. When he chooses to leave he meets a samurai-ko and two servants, the bushi in a very dark green kimono, her face obscured by slightly unkept medium length black hair and a straw hat. She has a rugged looking horse at her side, tied down with provisions, heavy sacks and a sheathed naginata, disassembled in two. At her side is a plan but not inelegant daisho. Her kimono is somewhat formal, the five Mon including one the Toku does not recognise along with the expected Kitsuki Mon.

She inspects the man with a raised eyebrow, saying nothing and then motioning to leave. Turning, she steps away, her sandles rhymically landing on the ground. The two heimin servants with her, both with full backpacks, immediately move to join her. As she heads to the main exit she says simply "Kitsuki Rinko" to the messenger, without raising her voice.

[Toku Hirotomo]

OOC: You are correct, the Monkey here and in Toshi Rando are pre-gempakuu. They are on thier final task to becoming adults. I mentioned it briefly, but forgot to state it clearly. Good show for catching on dispite my idiocy.

The young Monkey looked at the Samurai-ko as she introduced herself. She was rather pretty even though her unkempt hair and formal kimono spoke of a slight paradox. He glanced a little ruefully at her daisho. If he served well, and Toku Kenpachi-sama was pleased, his Gempakuu would arrive shortly.

"Toku Hirotomo." He said as manly as he could muster. "It's nice to meet you Kitsuki Rinko-san."
The last few days went by quickly. He read as many books as he could, and the Kitsuki's cook was very skilled. Time was of the essence though, and as soon as he was handed the letter, he professed his thanks for the hospitality and made ready to leave.

"This land is amazing, Kitsuki-san. The mountains, the air. They all are so peaceful. I feel bad for the other messenger my Lord sent. She will not know of the generous hospitality of the Dragon."

The young Monkey does his best to engage the Kitsuki in conversation. As the first non-Monkey woman he's ever spent any length of time with, she facinates him. He develops a slight crush, that he reminds himself over and over is just pure admaraiton.

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

The meeting between Rinko and Hirotomo had been quick and then the four had departed. Rinko addressed the Toku as "Toku-kun" throughout. Her servants called him "Toku-sama". She seemed reluctant to use his given name - perhaps she anticipated it changing soon? Her servants were quite pleasant. Both able bodied peasants who seemed to know their master quite well.

On their journey Rinko spoke rarely. Her words were direct. She answered questions as simply as possible. She gave warnings and observations where appropriate. Occassionally she complained about the bad weather or the lack of progress. She was quite pretty though. Not in the elegant beauty of a Doji woman. More a hidden beauty than anything else - she'd look so much better if she cared more about her appearance! The few times she had actually washed her hair and combed it she looked very dazzling before the days passed and it once again fell into disarray. She only seemed to wash or take care of herself after days of nagging from her two servants. For the most part Rinko read, studying worn books or she observed the landscape and sketched it - though more in an accurate manner than artistic, though it was that too. She seemed to be brooding over some matter and could become quite stand offish in the evenings. Her horse shared this trait although at all times. Even the servants gave it a wide berth unless they had to feed it. Rinko was also very wary, always observing the surroundings and even the Toku out of the corner of her eye.

In truth, she was slightly annoyed at the assignment and even more annoyed at herself for having that feeling in the first place. She had been working on another investigation before, second in charge of a much larger team on a very important issue. Her Lord had pulled her away from this to handle the Toku matter. Of course she knew it was because she was sincerely trusted and hopefully seen as very capable. Still, she wanted to be back to the other investigation as quickly as possible. She would solve this in record time to do so.

She did her best to remain polite to the Toku throughout the day though. Long conversations had never been her favourite past time. When he spoke of the peaceful lands and the hospitality of the Dragon she did her best to smile awkwardly before replying "A shame"

[Toku Hirotomo]

Hirotomo took her silence in. He spoke enough for both of them after all. He tried to impress Kitsuki Rinko by showing his knowledge on various topics. Kenpachi-sama had once told him that a proper magistrate knew a little about everything. He rode as close as was possible, risking a bite from her horse. The only time he actually spoke little was during the evenings. The Kitsuki seemed standoffish during that time. He talked the servants into letting him take her the evening meal.

About the 50th time Rinko called him Toku-kun, which took longer than one might think, as she spoke little, he smiled. "My Gempakuu is scheduled the day after we get to Toku Torid-e, and I have no intention of changing my name, Kitsuki Rinko-san. I am borrowing it from my Grandfather after all. Please call me Hirotomo."

Hirotomo did not care about her rougher appearance, though she looked stunning after bathing. One of the servants raised an eyebrow after they caught him staring at Rinko for more than was likely proper. Hirotomo gave them a sheepish smile. The servants were kind and respectful. Hirotomo was used to being close with servants but resisted the urge to help more than his station would allow. Great Clans were not so used to being close with thier servants.

When Rinko smiled, even alkwardly, a small gathering of butterflies gathered in his stomach. Perhaps the Monkey would allow him to study further with the Kitsuki. Hiromoto resolved to try his best. Perhaps he could get closer to Rinko-chan (As he called her in his mind) Kenpachi-sama and Sanjuro-dono would have to approve. He resolved to assist Kitsuki Rinko as best as he could.

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

Rinko had reluctantly started calling the young man "Hirotomo-kun". He was a few years younger than herself and it appeared he had not travelled much. He also seemed to be doing his best to impress her, which she found amusing. Letting him talk was easy enough. Even her horse, Ganko, eventually grew tired of his presence and stopped trying to ward him away. Still, he was easy to read and quite earnest so he wasn't too bad company she decided. He had a weird habit of staring that she couldn't fathom though. Perhaps the Toku enjoyed eye contact quite a lot? She had never paid as much attention to etiquette as her other studies, preferring the more martially flavoured lessons, but she did occassionally remember to turn away and try and act feminine. It didn't come naturally. Sometimes she noticed him staring and stared back, looking puzzled before turning away. The fact he was getting along so well with her servants also puzzled her. Usually they were more stoic, like herself. Perhaps it was his in-between status of still being a student that allowed them to relax with him?

Eventually Rinko relaxed, though it took most of the journey, and she began to initiate more conversations, though mostly asking about the Toku holdings and people.

"I have heard much about the first Toku. How do you continue his legacy?" She had asked one fine evening, when not a cloud obscured the view of the heavens. She was less quarrelsome that evening for some reason.

[Toku Hirotomo]

Hirotomo was a little suprised she asked a question regarding himself, and during the evening at that. Something seemed better. Perhaps she was getting used to him.

"Toku-dono was a great warrior and a champion of justice. He was a man worthy of high praise and loyalty even before he became a Fortune." Hirotomo's eyes shone a little and he gave a slight chuckle as he looked into the fire. "I am given a great honor to bear his name. He wanted to see peace prosper. I dedicate all I am to the peace of Rokugan. Though it is a very hard path, if I can bring forward one tenth of what he did then I will have lived an honorable life. I most likely will work with the magistrates, laws are the soul of civilization and peace. I try to continue his legacy by working for law and peace."

Hirotomo looked at the clear night. "Your work itself brings out peace and law, does it not, Kitsuki Rinko-san?" Hirotomo looked at her closely, blushed a little then turned back to the fire. "I have heard that some call your family's methods unusual. I was reading about how evidence and proper recollection are used, more so than testemony. I find it facinating." his voice became a little wistful. "My Lord values your family's abilities, and in my opinion it is very obvious why."

"My trip has been amazing. The mountains are cold, but strong and beautiful. Your Clan has given me more than I have ever dreamed of. I have never before seen such beauty, and in a place where I never looked for it." His eyes lingered over her face and he let that line of thought dift away, silently hoping she would get the message, and silently fearing the response.

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

Rinko listened to the Toku student while blowing on her tea. She only liked it best luke-warm. The 19 year old woman had many odd quirks like this. Her family blamed them for her lack of a husband. Rinko blamed her lack of interest and dedication to her work.

She nodded at the young man's sentiments regarding his ancestor and law and peace. It was about what she expected to hear. The return question was not unexpected therefore, though the Kitsuki in general liked to reveal little about themselves. She thought how best to respond, also staring at the fire before habitually clawing some of her hair off her face as it tickled. "Testimony is unreliable because people are imperfect. Too many try to interpret things and then reimagine the past. Worse, many lie or have their own agenda..." she stopped herself. Openly saying that behind the flowery language of courtiers lurked a deeper truth that many of their Lords were capable of dishonesty or actions for personal gain, yes, that would not be well received. He was young and idealistic and only needed to hear the positives about the law. She looked over at him and explained as best she could, though she was no sensei.

"Recollection is important - so you can remember the evidence you have seen and the knowledge to understand it. Evidence hides truth. Facts that cannot be hidden. Objective reasoning leads to these. What man can argue with the victim's blood on his hands and what thief can hide reality when a victim's treasured items are found on his person?". She scratched her cheek thoughtfully in regards to her own work, continuing "I believe our work leads to peace by upholding the law. I take a harder line than some. Still, I am sure my family will be happy to hear your Lord values us"

She sipped her tea. It was colder now. Much better. This was one of the lengthiest conversations she had had with the young man. At least in terms of her own input. She wasn't sure if it was just wasting time or she was actually imparting any wisdom though. Sighing wistfully she looked up again at the night's sky. They were on the edge of Dragon lands now. All the mountains loomed in the distance, moonlight gleaming off their snow capped peaks. Hirotomo seemed to be admiring them too and started to speak of them. She raised an eyebrow at his final comment. Always look in places you would think not to look at first she thought. She must convey this idea. Abruptly she interjected, trying to sound instructional like her sensei had been "Hirotomo-kun, you will find much in places you did not look or did not think to. The skill is in looking everywhere while limiting yourself to only looking for what matters and has meaning"

No, no, that had come off as too scolding she decided. This was why she disliked conversation and wrangling information out of witnesses. She preferred finding some evidence, making the correct allegation and then striking down the villain or their champion if they tried to argue against the truth. She was sometimes annoyed that she had to kill innocents who championed their fellows but it was a small price to pay to uphold law and order and see that justice was done. Law should be a deterrent. That had always been her viewpoint. Now though she merely felt she was offering ideas without the emotion vested in them that helped the idea plant and live in the student. She angrily patted away her hair again at her own inadequacy.

"I am going to sleep. Goodnight" she said calmly, putting her cup down. Bowing to the Toku slightly lower than necessary as her way of apology and then walking off to her own tent. One of her servants scurried after her, the man advising her to comb her hair. She shooed him away with a hand wave and a strong glare. The other was left to take her cup. He did so before bowing very lowly to the man.

"Toku-sama. My apologies once again for our Master. Please enjoy the rest of the evening. Your tent is prepared when you are ready to rest. We will be leaving Dragon lands tomorrow". He bowed again and then stepped backwards, helping his colleague as they began cleaning up the cooking items.

[Toku Hirotomo]

Hirotomo smiled, even though she seemed to scold him. Looking everwhere but only looking for what matters and has meaning.

"Thank you, Kitsuki Rinko-san. I think I know what has meaning now. Sleep peacefully." Hirotomo said as she went into her tent. He watched her turn he lantern off and stared back into the sky.

"No need." Hirotomo said as the servent agologized. "I think love her." he said to himself with a chuckle. He then remembered the servant was there. He looked at him and laughed sheepishly.

[Kitsuki Yuushahime]

The servants both said nothing, merely smiling and shaking their heads in amusement. To do more would be impolite. They both thought he would be put off after a few attempts as a few others had before him. Fast as a horse yet as slow as a turtle one thought about Rinko, avoiding saying it out loud. The evening and night went peacefully and the journey continued early the next morning. Their travel papers began to see some frequent use...

---

It was well into the journey that Hirotomo and his Kitsuki escort with her servants arrived at Three Sides River. It was a hot source of discussion and debate in the Imperial Capital at the moment but the land itself hadn't changed. The rivers continued to flow, rice continued to grow and busy samurai continued to patrol. Most of them were Lion samurai.

It was late morning and Rinko continued to yawn from a late night spent writing an update in her work diary. It mostly contained entries about the journey, very bland entries, but there was the occassional entry on something that had caught her eye or something she had considered. There were a few on the Toku also. He continued to equally amuse Rinko or lead to her frustration as she felt she failed to convey things well. He was amiable and energising company though and she found she resented the assignment less and didn't find talking quite so tiresome. He was also overly idealistic and naive. His first true assignments would likely beat that out of him she decided. Then again, she could be a bit hot headed herself.

While conversing about the local geography and ongoing political problems in only half interest, Rinko decided to ask more about Toku Kenpachi as she would soon enough be meeting him. She had asked Yuushahime as well but she'd only been told that he was quick witted, funny and strong hearted. It was not really useful information, objectively speaking, and that spoke volumes. Usually her Lord shared pertinent information far more readily. She must respect the man quite a bit. It would explain why she was chosen for the assignment she supposed.

Idlely she asked "What is your Lord, Toku Kenpachi-sama, like then Hirotomo-kun? This information would be useful as I seek to assist in this matter"

[Toku Hirotomo]

Hirotomo stretched a little as he begun to speak. Rinko became less tense as the travels have progressed. He tired hinting at his feelings, even so far as recalling a poem he had once heard during a discussion of art. Nothing so far. Hirotomo was getting close to flat out stating it. Normally that was a little crass, but his subtlety was not a mach for her wall. He chuckled a little at the thought that the Carpenter Wall protected Rokugan by keeping out the Shadowlands, but Rinko’s Wall kept out everything, perhaps it would be best to admit his feelings, she was logical after all.

“Toku Kenpachi-sama is very goal oriented, and he puts duty before everything, family included. He has a love of humor, though recent events have changed that a little. He has strong conventions on the natural order in tradition. He’s more than a little irritated that the Mantis is trading with Gaijin. He’s interested in peace, most likely that rubbed off on me. He has enormous respect for Dragon, Lion, Unicorn and Scorpion samurai. When I was younger, he would tell me stories about traveling with a band of magistrates. Together, they found a band of law-breaking bandits and cleared the entire camp. You will find him open, but a little distant. He’s always thinking three minutes ahead of a situation.”

Hirotomo grew silent for a little bit. “I believe there is something you should know. I was told to keep it under wraps, because my father is scared for me. Toku Kenpachi is not just my lord. He’s also my father. I don’t want to shock you when we get to Toku Torid-e. My father is worried if I keep my name well known, the same people that attacked my mother and brother will attack me. I don’t want to hide anything from you though.” Hirotomo looked directly at Rinko’s eyes. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed spending time with you, and I don’t want it to end. ” Hirotomo took a breath and pushed on. In for a zeni in for a koku. “Kitsuki Rinko-san, I have feelings for…”

The sound of revelry, which at this point Hirotomo was decidedly ignoring, got close. There were four samurai in Lion colors were laughing and showing off some items. “you.” Hirotomo finished turning white. Two of the Lion were fighting over a Kimono, with a strange pattern. Kanji for Kenpachi, Aiko, Hirotomo, and Tochi were very clear, red against a blue and gold field. “That was my mother's.” Hirotomo said softly. Hirotomo’s eyes grew hard and he began to move towards the Lion samurai.