Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 26, 2011 9:04:47 GMT -5
After the events of those exhilarating day and evening, Mitsouko would only rest her head in the pillow, hoping that the letter she sent to her beloved Sanjuro could reach his hands before he asked for some favor to Shosuro clan. The revelations she and Agasha Sho had about things of the past troubled her mind as well. Would this travel to clear things and open again her life to her love for Sanjuro and turn to an honored marriage? She hoped so. But then her mother was back again, waking her to admire the dawn, and have a little conversation...
Mother, this is Toku Kenpachi, I don't think you meet before. He is a skilled samurai, both in war and court. He is also father of Hirotomo-san, that is my cousin by his Kakita family side. Toku-san, my mother Lady Isawa Tisuke, a Phoenix Tensai. The Isawa lady bowed respectfully to him, keeping a cordial expression. From her, Mitsouko inherited the green-golden eyes and the proud mien, but Lady Tisuke seemed a stern personality, even if elegant mannering and acting with courtesy.
The trio then sitted in one of the luxurious rooms of the Bride Manor, and the servants brought the tea. Meanwhile, Hirotomo was practicing with Agasha Shodai somewhere outside. Mitsouko served tea to her guests, while she was paying attention to her mother behaviour. After long hours of arguing, they had finally entered in agreement about many things. One of them was that Lady Tisuke would not to oppose to the omiai court from Sanjuro, if Mitsouko do not cause problem if another man to propose marriage as well. Tisuke would not decide for any of the pretenders, for her status as divorced woman. But, as mother, her influence was not to be discarded as well. " I am honored, Kenpachi-san. I was told you were a perfect host to my daughter Mitsouko, when she was in the Mountains of Toku Torid-E. I am very glad for that, I was aware you made your best, even in times of sorrow. Please, do accept a token of my respect for a man who can be kind even in hard times. And representing my hope that you find joyful times ahead, Toku-san. A servant brought then an exquisite lacquered sake set, painted with delicate festive pictures in the fashion of Scorpion art. The servant arranged the present between the Isawa and the Toku, then the Phoenix shugenja took with delicacy the sake jug with both hands and offered to Kenpachi, bowing her head. This set once was owned by a Toku sensei and poet, and I am proud it once reached my hands. I am sure it should come back to the Mountains it surely longs for.
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Apr 26, 2011 11:25:27 GMT -5
Kenpachi refused twice. Claiming that the splendor of the gift was far greater than his own worth. When he accpeted, Kenpachi took the set with both hands and declared that the set will have an honored place in his home and when used it would bring fond memories of his host.
"My words cannont say how grateful I am for this gift, Isawa-sama." Kenpachi said bowing his head."My son has a gift from the Monkey that I hope will be half as well received as the gift you have given me."
Hirotomo walked up and bowed to Isawa Tisuke."Isawa-sama, though historicaly our clans have had little interaction we still are bound by the same fate of a search for peace." Hirotomo was doing well enough, but it was clear that this was a rehearsed speech."This tessen once was owned by Isawa Hironotakamata, The Red Magistrate. During a mission while serving the Jade Champion, he was attacked by vile Maho-tsuki. Toku himself fought side by side with him, and when the battle was over, the tessen was given in gratitude. In this way we hope to remind all clans of our dedication to a peaceful and lawful Rokugan, and the connection the Pheonix and the Monkey share."
Kenpachi smiled inwardly. This gift was suitable for a Daimyo or a Champion. Sanjuro-sama's treasurer almost had a fit when Kenpachi told him it would be going to a Tensai. It was a well regarded position, but it was an enormous gift. The symbol of a united Monkey and Pheonix was clear. Though Matsuko was Crane, her mother would have no choice but to at least entertain the idea marriage. Kenpachi sincerely hoped that he would not have to use the treasured gifts of the Monkey during any more of the negotiations. They were not the Crane. Bathing in gold was an alien concept.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 26, 2011 12:46:26 GMT -5
Mitsouko was proud of the gift Hirotomo put at the hands of her mother. The Isawa lady refused twice as well, alleging that such gift was beyond her position to deserve. But then finally accepted, admiring the details fo the tessen in her hands. she smiled to Hirotomo. Toku-san, may the Virtue Himself guide your life and choices. I am immensely honored for such gift, as it represents the good favor and friendship between our clans and houses. " Tisuke bowed her head as final gesture of the etiquette procedures for exchanging gifts Then turned to Kenpachi, with a half smile."I am aware, of course, Kenpachi-san, a man with the skills you are famous for possess, would be of valuable aid for your Champion, both in war and in court. I wonder if you are in a special mission in Crane lands, as your presence, experience and wisdom would be required in the battle in western lands as well.. Do you not seem a kind of man who choose the court when can be in military action."
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Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
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Post by Agasha Shodai on Apr 26, 2011 17:11:13 GMT -5
Despite the short night, Shodai's body woke him promptly when it thought first light should be. As he exited his room, now dressed in the simple training gi used by the members of the Brotherhood of Shinsei and his white lacquered mempo only, he noticed that the sun had not yet crested over the walls of the Crysanthemum Bride Manor.
'Right; I'm not in Shiro Hiruma today, but my body hasn't caught up with the fact that the sun rises over the horizon at different times... I wonder why that is...'
As the five element Tensai stepped out into the cool, pre-dawn light, the mist chilled his scalp and clung to the hair that had grown in the two weeks since he'd last been able to shave it. He'd chosen against donning the amigusa hat because it would hinder his range of vision when he began full-on weapon drills.
'Guess I should get used to having hair again, too... Have to look like the Void Master rather than a humble monk from now on. He thought to himself as he walked to the dojo; noticing that there was no area that was isolated enough to safely perform the evocative water, fire and earth magic he typically did as part of his jiujutsu practice within the mansion's compound. Which was fine; if anyone saw him channelling all five Elements, it would probably give away his identity.
Agasha Shodai, like many multiple element shugenja, practiced a jiujutsu - unarmed combat that was typically used as the base for kenjutsu - style that blended the practice kata for the different magics that they utilized. The Void Master's own style, "Celestial Dragon's Fist," was named after the ultimate five-element spell, Perfection of the Celestial Dragon; a spell that remained beyond the Agasha's skill to complete. While his personal style was distinctively unique - no one else used his jiujutsu style - no one at the manor was likely to recognize it.
Celestial Dragon's Fist was a seemingly chaotic - but in actuality a carefully organized - blend of firmly rooted stances he'd learned from the Crab that allowed for heavy Earth blows, graceful sweeps, spins and flips from Kaze-do to mimic Air, fluidic body shifts borrowed from the art of Mizu-do to mimic Water, firm arm and leg gestures from his studies in the Dragon lands to give direction to the rushing movement of channeled Fire, and complex transitions that seamlessly connected the first four combat styles to embody the all-encompassing Void. The style was a continuous work in progress: just as the world was ever-changing, so to would be the Celestial Dragon's Fist style, though there would certainly be some fundamentals that would never change.
The shugenja reached Kakita Mitsouko's private dojo as the first rays of sunlight finally began to shine on the foot path. Sliding open the wood and rice paper door, Shodai glanced inside to contemplate the dimensions, but quickly determined that while there was enough open space to swing a katana, any Air magic would ricochet off the walls and drastically contemplate his training routine.
"Looks like I'm practicing outside, then... And since I finished on an Earth chain during my last practice, I should continue the sequence by starting up with Air..." He quickly performed a silent chant for a pair of spells that he utilized for training. "Earth art, Bands of Rock technique. Air magic, Walk with the Wind technique."
As he completed the spell duo, a small storm of dust formed as the Earth kami gathered the loose earth and stone which it then magically converted into solid granite bands as thick as a man's finger that wrapped themselves around Shodai's shins, forearms, and waist. The addition of the bands mimicked the weight of full armor and limited the effectiveness of the Air spell designed to negate most of the caster's mass to increase mobility.
"Nidaime Kazejutsu: Stinging Strikes, Eye of the Storm, and At the Whim of the Wind." He said softly. The second Air technique series began with dozens of rapid two-finger strikes designed to hit pressure points on unarmored foes surrounding the jiudoka, to be followed by a set of sickle sweeps and roundhouse kicks to open up maneuvering room and concluded by using throws designed to use one opponent as a weapon to knock down several others.
As the sweat began to trickle down his forehead, Shodai wondered how far he'd get before young Toku would be joining him.
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Apr 26, 2011 17:56:57 GMT -5
Kenpachi smiled and started to speak. The Pheonix was clear minded, she saw through him. He nodded to Hirotomo and the young samurai excused himself. "You are most perceptive, Isawa-sama. In fact I am on a mission from my lord. Though I am happy to serve in any manner, I am better suited for battle. There is a matter of importance that draws me away from that, and that I have been chosen out of those that serve Sanjuro-sama to perform this task, fills me with great pride. Toku Sanjuro-sama has been our champion for a short time, but he has been busy, some might say too busy for normal activity." Kenpachi reached into his obi and pulled out a red scroll wrapped in light blue silk. "It is with the upmost humility, Isawa-dono that I declare that my Champion is quite taken with your daughter. Having never known Benten's embrace, he cherishes her with the might of the young. This enormous event could herald a new era of inter-clan relations and of course having the noble blood of Isawa-dono and Lady Doji-kami in the Monkey's future champions will be a great boon to all three clans. I ask for your blessing to join with Benten's that all the Clans may hear its glorious song."
Not too bad for a bushi. Kenpachi thought smugly. He glanced at Mitsouko. The Crane are not the only one's who can use flowery talk, dear Mitsouko. He looked at Isawa-san. She was much like him, seeing his child grow to an adult. In truth he requested this task. He knew he and Hirotomo would be best suited for this task. He could relate well to Isawa-san, and empathy brought understanding.
Hirotomo walked quickly for morning exercise with the Pheonix. He was interested in learning more about this man before he crossed half the Empire with him. He paused for a moment. If he was looking for a wife, perhaps Chiyuki would be to his taste. He bit his lip as he walked to the Pheonix. His father was right. This would be interesting.
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Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
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Post by Agasha Shodai on Apr 26, 2011 22:09:30 GMT -5
Agasha Shodai was completing Godaime Kazejutsu, the fifth Air technique set, with alternating backwards and forwards flip kicks designed to allow him to land a heavily armored kick to either an opponent's face or the back of his head - either of which would knock them prone - when Toku Hirotomo arrived.
"Ohayo Gozaimas, Toku-san!"[/b] The shugenja said as he stopped the moderate calistenics and wiped the sweat from his brow. He bent down to pick up the two large bamboo cups that he'd filled from the spring, handing one to the Monkey samurai before he took a long pull of water to rehydrate himself. As he did so, he silently cancelled the Earth and Air spells. Agasha felt his weight normalize as the Air Kami ceased to hold him up and the rock bands revert to loose pebbles and dust when the Earth kami discontinued its efforts.
"Ah! Nothing like cool water to refresh oneself after a good warm-up... Or prepare one for some brisk exercise, eh, Toku Hirotomo-san?" The Phoenix chuckled as he set his empty cup down. "Before we get started, let me return the opportunity you gave me last night by letting me learn a bit about you from your tanto by letting you inspect my own katana..."
Agasha Shodai turned to face the North and then raised his right finger. Given the sheer amount he traveled, it would be nigh impossible to carry the few gifts and treasures he'd kept over the years. The ones he hadn't kept for himself he'd gifted to his Clan so that they might be appreciated by more than just Shodai and his family. Silently speaking the incantation for one of his handiest Void spells: the Dimensional Pocket - a storage place that was untouchable from Ningen-do without the proper spell, but moved with Shodai everywhere he went.
The Void Master made a sharp horizontal gesture as his magically charged finger cut into the space between spaces. As he did so, reality parted like the opening of one of the gaijin knowledge scrolls - a buch, a bok, or whatever it was they called it - to reveal an empty white space that seemed to go on forever. The world that the Dimensional Pocket spell accessed always remained oriented the same way, regardless of which direction the Agasha was facing. Through the north "entrance," Shodai kept his tools of war: the Ono axe he'd recieved from the Badger Clan, the Tsuruchi longbow he'd picked up from the Wasp Clan, the Ancient armor he'd found in the ruins of Otosan Uchi...
And the elegantly lacquered free-standing katana rack that held space for 8 blades, painted the red and gold colors of the Phoenix clan with a golden Phoenix mon decorating the top.
Shodai gave Hirotomo a few moments to look at the weapon rack. The top-most blade was a weapon that had been passed through his family's bloodline for over three hundred years. It had been forged by the weaponsmiths of the Dragon clan before the schism that split the Agasha Family when Shodai's own father was Hirotomo's age. Following Gunso Agasha's passing from this world into Meido, the sword should have gone to Keitaro - Shodai's father - but he felt unworthy to carry the blade as he barely knew how to use the ceremonial wakazashi he wore in public and chose to give it to his son early. Following his grandfather's death, the katana had accompanied the shugenja on his pilgrimage to pray at the major gravesites in the Empire and ended up being blessed by the "dead" Kami Ryoshun himself.
It was without a doubt the blade that Shodai prized above all others.
Beneath that rested a Tsi blade from the Oriole Clan that Shodai had had custom-fitted to his grip and was reserved for when meteing out his duties as a Taisa on the front lines. The third blade bore the unmistakable crimson wrap and gold guard of a Kaiu blade: a black bladed katana that was of limited supply - the Kaiu smiths forged only 5 such blades each year.
Shodai reached through the hole between worlds to extract the last katana - one with a snow-white lacquered saya, white wrappings around the hilt, and a guard made of pure silver and polished to a mirrored shine, save for a few nicks where the plate had served its purpose in protecting the shugenja's hand - before closing the "door." Agasha Shodai had acquired this weapon while studying with the Kuroiban - the Scorpion Clan's version of the Inquisitors - and it was a rare sight in the Empire...
It was a katana whose blade was formed from a piece of magically reinforced crystal. While it lacked the purifying properties of jade, crystal was extremely effective against Tainted opponents: be they oni or Maho-tsuki.
He turned to Hirotomo as he held up the weapon for the young man's inspection. "Toku Hirotomo, allow me to introduce you to Amakuni Kongosoha - The Diamond Rain. The blade was forged by the Ashalan Sandsmith who returned with the Scorpion clan from their exile to the Burning Sands in 1132."
Shodai raised the weapon a bit higher in a silent invitation for the young man to take the blade into his own hands. "Take a few moments to examine it and tell me what insights you are able to glean from it."
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Apr 27, 2011 0:27:19 GMT -5
"Good morning, Pheonix Sho-san." Hirotomo said bowing politely. After the sword was offered, Hirotomo took the blade and closed his eyes. His sensei had the unusual ability to gleen information, he tried to teach this to Hirotomo and seemed confused when Hirotomo was unable to reach his level. He held it and began to form a picture in his head. This blade was for lack of a better word, serene. "This blade is at peace with its duty. To find and clean the impure." Hirtomo said, not opening his eyes.
"A samurai is little more than the focal point of his ancestors, a manifestation of thier lives. This sword is a memory of thier deeds, and glorious they were. Without this blade and without the samurai that carried it, this would surely be a darker world we live in.
Hirotomo gave the blade back and pushed back a lingering headache. It happend often when he held a sword with history. His father's sword once made him so sick he barely left bed for a day. His sensei called it 'blade wise', whatever that ment. The old Kakita was unusal. He knew everything about swords, but was always asking about court.
The weapons he did not usually carry were waiting for him near the dojo. His father had given him an usual gift, a gajin weapon. It was a sword, or so he was told. It was a thin straight blade. He found the weapon distasteful, he would rather slice like a warrior than poke like a seemstress. Still, it was his birthright, and to honor his father he would learn to use the sewing needle as he called it. A yumi lay near the sewing needle. It did not show much use.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 27, 2011 12:05:50 GMT -5
Tisuke listened to the Kenpachi-san words with interest, and when the Toku samurai gave her the red scroll, she nodded to Mitsouko to leave them. The Duelist was surprised, but mimicking her cousin, excused herself and leave the Phoenix lady and the Toku Kenpachi alone. Ahhh young hearted, and you say he cherishes Mitsouko with the might of the young... The love of young one not always endures a winter, Kenpachi-sama. A true marriage cannot lean on pillars of passion, but should be built in ties of confidence, family honor and, of course, always thinking in what is better for the Empire.We are all servers of our Beloved Emperor, aren't we? She held the scroll in her hands, but not opened it yet. Then, with a subtle smile, said: " I also had heard that the Toku Champion-sama is son of a former Doji lady himself, isn't true? Crane have always supported the Toku clan... historically it is a well known fact, I mean. But please, I am excited to hear about the feats of your champion, Kenpachi-san."
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Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
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Post by Agasha Shodai on Apr 27, 2011 22:58:33 GMT -5
OOC: Taisakurikugan means "counter-measure army" in Japanese. In this context, it's referring to the Shogun's amassed army intended to reinforce the original defenders of Mountain Watch Keep
"I think you might have a bit of Kitsu in you, my young friend." Shodai complimented with a smile as he slid the saya of his crystal katana into his obi on the left side. "Never has a man your age given me such an accurate reading on Amakuni Kongosoha. Most see the scarred guard and realize that I put substance and function ahead of appearance. Others notice the wear of the wrappings on the grip and realize that I use this katana with great regularity. But you..." He patted the boy's shoulder approvingly. "You saw through the window of the heart into the very soul of this blade. That makes you something very special indeed, Toku-san."
The young samurai rubbed his forehead as if pushing back pain as he walked over to the small dojo. The Agasha noticed a common yumi and a very uncommon gaijin weapon... A rap-pier, if Shodai recalled correctly from the interrogations of the Yobanjin scouts that his men had captured before the assault on Moutain Watch Keep had begun in-force. Neither looked especially worn - it was evident that Hirotomo was, like most young men, so focused on earning personal glory in proper katana-on-katana warfare.
It was a shame that few of them lived long enough to learn that in war the ones that last the longest are the ones that specialize in wielding the art of death rather than the ones that look the best while doing so. As a Taisa, Shodai had had countless young men and women - many conscripted peasants - cut down by the hundreds because the gaijin warriors were every bit as well-trained as a genuine samurai but because their tools of combat were considered to be less honorable than Rokugani weapons the soldiers made mistakes that got them killed.
"I see you have a gaijin's rap-pier..." The Void Master said lightly. "A truly devastating weapon in the hands of a properly trained warrior... Serving on the front lines as a Tai... He coughed, remembering that he was trying to avoid revealing the various titles he'd earned to preserve some measure of annonymity for the time being. "a member of the Taisakurikugan, I am stunned by the sheer effectiveness of the outsiders' weaponry."
"While the metal is not strong enough to properly block a katana, the fact that it only requires a single hand to properly use it gives it great advantage. It can strike at points that even heavy armor cannot properly defend against as our armor is designed to protect against a slicing katana. I have seen many an experienced Gunso cut down because their opponent was able to strike at their eyes with the precision of an Tsuruchi archer from less than a meter. I have seen a Crab Chui who served for decades on the Wall sent to Meido because his opponent dodged a Dai Tsuchi blow and struck the gap between the underside of his arm and the resumption of his armor to pierce his heart in the time it takes to breathe in and out."
Agasha smiled at Toku. "There is a considerable amount of honor to be earned for one that can master such a weapon to the point that it acquires a piece of the soul of its wielder rather than the lifeless and interchangable blades the gaijin carry. Have you given it a name to start the process of making it an honorable and rare weapon yet, Toku-san?" He asked curiously.
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Apr 28, 2011 1:48:02 GMT -5
Kenpachi
Kenpachi smiled, though groaned inwardly. Sanjuro was an excellent samurai and a born leader. His time as a champion had been quiet, save the recent trouble with the gaijin. Peace was the ultimate goal of all true samurai, but it left little room for glory. He did not know if the lady concidered courtly glory the equal of glorious combat.
"Sanjuro-sama's legendary skill with investigation is well known amoung magistrates. He had even assisted the mighty Emerald Champion on occasion. His crowning glory is perhaps his role in the formation of the Minor Clan Alliance. He, along with the Champion of the Tortiose, the Bat, and the Dragonfly drafted the original charter, and the rest of the minor clans agreed that a united front would serve us as well as Rokugan better than an induvidual standing. While the other Minor clans have been called to war, our own magistrates protect thier lands from bandits and other elements that would try to make use of what they incorrectly percive as a weak time for the Empire. His work uniting the Minor clans into an alliance will forever change history for the better. He also has a lovely singing voice." The last part was true enough, but Kenpachi figured that though the woman was most likely suffering from grief, a little idle humor would perhaps ease her into dealings with him. She lost her husband and he did not want her to think the Monkey was taking away her daughter. He was perhaps the first Monkey she met, his clan did not venture as much into Pheonix lands as some of thier closer neighbors.
"Love perhaps is unusual for a samurai, but I belive that it is part of us. I love the empire, my clan, my champion, and the Emperor. Perhaps winter can make love grow cold, fortuneatly the winters in Toku Torid-e are quite mild. Love does not have to be a detrement. Obsession is tainted, while love is pure. I also assure you, that my lord is quite confident. He dreams of a peaceful Rokugan and I have complete faith that your daughter would be a great asset in that vision." Kenpachi smiled. Sadane was a guilty pleasure of his as a young bushi. He could easily counter most arguments and perhaps, soften her heart.
Hirotomo Hirotomo listened to the Pheonix. His words made sense. Taisakurikugan? Hirotomo had never heard of that, and resolved to read on the subject when he had the chance. The art of battle was not as developed as his other skills, though he was Akodo-kami himself compaired to his abysmal talent for kyujutsu.
Hirotomo picked up the 'sword'. A Rap-pier, by the kami the gajin could not name anything right. "You are correct, Pheonix Sho-san. The weapon is deadly. My sensei recently taught me how to use it, though by no means am I as adept at it in combat as Fubuki. I'm afraid I let my opions get the better of me when it comes to swords, but the day may come when it could save my life. Your words humble me." He guestured to his pure white laqured katana as he mentioned Fubuki. "Saihouhari is the name I've come to call it. It was a memento from the Battle of the White Stag. Taken from a gaijin gunso that landed at the Imperial city. Perhaps the name is a little silly, but I intened to teach it honor and bushido." Hirotomo did note that the move he was taught might be easier to perform using this blade. Perhaps the next foe unworthy of his true blade would quench the thirst of this odd weapon. There was always honor in battle, perhaps the spirit of the sword would be helpful.
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 28, 2011 10:50:50 GMT -5
Mitsouko would give an arm to know what else her mother and Kenpachi-san were talking, but would never listen their conversation without permission. She trusted the abilities of Kenpachi-san, but also knew well about the stubborness of her mother. So the Kakita samurai-ko went outside, hoping watch some of the exercises both Agasha Sho and Hirotomo should have practicing. Perhaps she could see them in the final moments of the exercises. During her pre-gempukku training and even after, when she traveled through the empire, she knew most of the styles, both of martial arts and kenjutsu, even if she hadn't enough time to be skilled in most of them, she could identify them easily. Her father was also her sensei, and it meant the tripple of hard time and dedication; Kakita Shinoburo was a perfectionist, and taught her the secrets of mizu-do, as well the combination of this art with the highest forms of dueling. Since she not had yet dueled with a Kenshinzen other than her sensei (and father), she might not join the school, but it was her secret wish. She was prepared to do so, if the war had not drained out the best Crane Swordmen to north. Because of her female condition, she had to work hard to overcome her gender limits, the fragility of the body, the lack of resistance and ever more. Even if Mitsouko had a natural gift for it, her father pushed her more and more, to the human limits of body flexibility and perfectionism of the movements. Shinoburo made her study and know about every movement of each school known in the empire, in order to recognize and prevent them. A knowledge she found other uses for, as well. Her gempukku was late, but when Mitsouko was finally ready, she made her father really proud of her achievements. She had already fought against bandits, battled in war and dueled, but Mitsouko was not yet glorious as Kakita Shinoburo was. Now, the stiff furisode layers and the traditional maiden updo was in the court fashion, to honor Kenpachi official meeting, but it was alien at her core. She would prefer her travelling outfit and loose hair, or better, be dressed to join them in the exercises, but it was not the case.
Good day, I hope you had eaten rice today, samurai-san. She found them in the dojo, examining a gaijin sword. When she got their attention, bowed to them, smiling. Is it a 'Hapiairu', samurai-san? She reminded of seeing one once, in Mantis lands. But this one was not rusty and crooked. In fact, seemed very well preserved.
..... Very well, Kenpachi-san. I have no doubts that the Toku champion sings like a nightingale. If he is an excellent magistrate, he should be able to find who poisoned my daughter. It would be a very convincing proof of his interest in my Mitsouko. Isawa Tisuke handed the red scroll to Kenpachi again, keeping eye contact and a half smile.
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Apr 28, 2011 16:22:49 GMT -5
Hirotomo
"A rap-pier, I'm told, cousin." Hirotomo brought the weapon to his face and placed his hand behind his back. He danced around in an imaginary square, bringing the weapon to his center and twisting his wrist to flick the blade. "My sensei taught me that the weapon's greatest ability is its speed. It looks like dancing to me. Perhaps the gajin that use this weapon are all acrobats. Still," Hirotomo threw the blade at a archery target, hitting the center. "it is rather fun to throw."
Kenpachi
Perhaps a more direct tactic would work, this woman was hesitant about something. To catch whomever poisoned her daughter might as well be akin to finding a particular servant at the Imperial Court. Still, if there was a man alive who could do such a task, it was his lord.
" My lord has been concerned with the antidote, and now that Mitsouko-san is mended, I have no doubt that this is foremost in his thoughts. Of course in order to acomplish this task, certain formalities would have to be observed. The Crane, no doubt have been investigating this matter, and for my lord to assit they would have to agree. After all, the Crane are very keen on keeping internal matters...internal. Though my lord would be quite caipable of solving this mystery, it would be up to the Crane to allow us to assist."
Kenpachi appeared to think about something, then broke into a smile. "A thought just came to me, Isawa-san. I have heard that your daughter is going to the Miya lands. Logic says that were she poisoned once, after seeing its falure, the dishonorable dogs would try again, perhaps using a more direct tactic. Though I have no doubt that she is fully able to fight, I have a courtier near Kyuden Baiyshi that needs to perform a task in the Miya lands. My son was to act as her yojimbo during the travels. He is skilled with the sword, and no doubt could assist your daughter as well. Four more eyes could see an ambush that two could not. I have faith that your daughter and my lord will wed, eventualy, and I belive that a show of how the Monkey protects its own could rest your mind."
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Kakita Mitsouko
Crane Clan Mod
::Daimyo::Kenshinzen::Hatamoto of Crane Clan::Paragon of Duty
Posts: 1,952
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Post by Kakita Mitsouko on Apr 28, 2011 17:04:00 GMT -5
Isawa Tisuke Sighed: I see. Mitsouko told me about her plans. She is very interested in the story of a ancestor, Seppun Saimei. She invited your gentle son and, if he already is in his way to Kyuden Myia, I think she will appreciate the company. I am very happy with this arrangement as well. I will look further for the news about the activities of your lord concerning his efforts to find the responsibles for this attempt against Mitsouko. I am sure he, in the quality of an influent champion, will not have problem to get any help or permission needed to find the culprit. Then, Toku champion-sama can use his skills in investigation. Seems reasonable he cannot think in something else than find the possible enemies of the woman he loves with his young heart...As he wasn't quick enough to give her an antidote that your neighbours Scorpion should have in their forbidden gardens. In fact, I found someone else to cure her. If I coudn't come, Mitsouko would be dead by now and, of course, Toku-sama would never ask her hand. She sipped the final sip of her cup. Can you understand that, if my daughter have dangerous enemies, she should choose a husband that can protect, save and rescue her of what she cannot by herself?
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Agasha Shodai
Phoenix Clan Mod
Phoenix Clan * The Void Master * Tensai * Taisa * Enlightened * Paragon of Compassion * Unique
Posts: 783
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Post by Agasha Shodai on Apr 28, 2011 20:12:45 GMT -5
OOC: Just to clarify from my last post, Shodai had been about to say "Serving on the front lines as a Taisa," but he covered by using the word Taisakurikugan because he's enjoying stepping outside of the legend he's become. There's nothing to research because it's just a word to describe the Shogun's army that started with "Tai." Though word will not have had time to spread beyond Kyuden Isawa (it won't reach the Crane lands until after we leave) that Shodai is now the Void Master, he wants Mitsouko and the others to get to know the man behind the legend and judge him for who he really is, not who society requires him to be.
For those who are unfamiliar with the Phoenix Clan, as Void Master Shodai is one of five shugenja who collectively act as Phoenix Clan Daimyo (we Phoenix always have to be just a little bit different from everyone else. The task of overseeing and properly utilizing the repositories of knowledge we command it too great a responsibility for just one man, so we made a committee ;D) This means that unlike the other Clans, the Phoenix Champion is only the head of the Phoenix military machine and the absolute yojimbo for the 5 members of the Council.
During times of war, however, the Council vests the Clan Champion is granted the authority of Clan Daimyo (making him identical in power to the other Clan Champions.) In the end, though, the Champion he is still ultimately subject to the Council's will (even if it occurs after he's taken action.)
Agasha Shodai grinned slightly at Hirotomo's impressive throw. "Somehow I don't think that's what the gaijin had in mind when they designed it, but, then again, being able to surprise your opponent is one way to ensure victory."
The Void Master turned to his hostess. "You seem to be recovering nicely, Kakita-san; there is a bit of a glow about you today that is a vast improvement from yesterday's pallor..." He stepped over to the training rack and lifted three bamboo training blades from the wall, one of which he passed to the Monkey samurai. "As a physician, Kakita-san, I can say that it will help your recovery if you try to get in some excercise. I've noticed that it helps the body purge the toxins a bit faster... Why don't you join your cousin and I for some training?"
Agasha Shodai smiled encouragingly to Kakita Mitsouko as he held the kendo stick out to her, grip first.
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Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Apr 28, 2011 23:08:02 GMT -5
Kenpachi
Kenpachi sighed internaly. Pheonix are supposed to be peaceful and wise. Granted this could have better timing, but why dodge the marriage? Politically, it was sound. Marrage was to futher the political ties of the clans. Who could possibly be chasing after Mitsouko with as much clout as a Clan Champion? His own marriage had been quick and clean, over in less than a month. He only met Aiko a few days before he married her. He did not understand. He would have to speak with Sanjuro-sama. Kenpachi was the leader of the Monkey Clan magistrates, when he could he would send a messenger informing them of this task. Sanjuro did not have the time for daliance to apease a woman who had no intention of being pleased. She after all must have had a difficult marriage. She should be Kakita, not Isawa.
"I'm sure the Crane would welcome such assitance. It appears that the Kakita Daimyo is unavalible though. When he is able to take visitors, the arrangements will be made." Kenpachi had wanted this to be clean. He may have to speak with the Crane Champion. That would take some doing. He did not like being in the Crane lands as there were two Kakita looking for an excuse to make his life misrible.
Hirotomo "Then I suppose that proves we are more inventive. Hirotomo said pulling his sword free. Hirotomo pulled his Katana out and began to take a few deep breaths. The metal was odd, pure white. "Learning to use a weapon in a way that is unexpexted once saved a Dragon friend of mine. After checking his blade for nicks, Hirotomo placed it back at his side. He walked over and picked up a boken. He checked its balance and placed it back. He repeated this until he found one suitable to his taste.
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