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Post by Soshi Kiso on May 7, 2011 18:58:22 GMT -5
(This is intended to be a closed RP between Yoritomo Akihiko, Bayushi Senshi, Bayushi Haruka and Soshi Kiso. If there is anyone else who feels their presence should be involved, please PM me to discuss it.)
Having spent the night in Yasuki Yashiki, Kiso was honored to accompany Yoritomo Akihiko aboard his vessel, traveling the rivers of the south. Before setting foot on the ship, he sent three messages ahead.
The first, to Bayushi Senshi:
Bayushi Senshi-sama,
My visit to Kyuden Gotei was short, having arrived to find the Yoritomo Daimyo had set sail for Yasuki Yashiki. I arrived there in time to meet with him before he set sail once again. I am currently in his company, with a rest stop to Pleasure City in our sights.
You would be interested to know, he is currently acting as Champion of the Mantis, the current Champion is on a personal journey. Though he hasn't admitted it yet, his tongue slipped, narrowing the possibility to him alone. I would imagine he is waiting for messengers to reach Toshi Ranbo.
If you were to manage a visit to the City of Pleasure, we would be honored to sup with you, along with any volume of Scorpion you would wish to bring in tow.
Your faithful servant, Soshi Kiso
The second, to Shiro no Soshi:
I was taken away in a hurry, first to Kyuden Bayushi to induct our newest member, Soshi Ishida. Make sure to welcome him should he pay visit. From there I sought out the Mantis leadership, and will be setting foot soon to Pleasure City, ensure to send my standard entourage there to rejoin me. Along with them, a number of you should accompany them to the same destination to find new residence.
The third, to the House of the Rising Sun:
The Scorpion Daimyo, Mantis Daimyo, and myself will be arriving in a few days time. We seek a private room for our party, and for your troubles in preparing the most delightful visit to your fine establishment, you will be promptly rewarded.
Soshi Kiso Daimyo of the Soshi
Sitting aboard the ship, Kiso mused on the most recent events. Childhood spent in libraries slaving over scroll after scroll never prepared one for battling Yobajin, to lobbying over trade routes, performing a wedding, taking ones fealty, and now most recently, learning to walk on a ship. He decided that training in Shiro no Soshi was going to get some augmentation upon his return.
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Post by vegandeathmachine on May 7, 2011 20:19:14 GMT -5
Near the bow of the ship, Akihiko consults with lookout, takes a reading on the course, makes a small adjustment for a change in the winds and currents, and leaves the crew to their work.
Odd, he thinks. I certainly didn't expect the Scorpion to become my first allies. That will teach me to have expectations. It's just as well, anyway; I grew up in Ryoko Owari, they are almost family to me.
Seeing Soshi Kiso-san seated near the stern, he walks easily along the rolling deck to greet him.
"Good morning, Soshi Kiso-san! Thank you for joining me on my journey up river. Shall we take breakfast now?"
Akihiko gestures to the plates of food and tea the servants have laid out, and proceeds to eat.
"So, I am to meet with the Scorpion Champion, eh? Excellent, I most enjoyed meeting Bayushi Senshi-sama and Haruka-sama at their wedding."
[OOC: We can either continue to talk on the boat, or proceed to the meeting. Your call, Kiso-san]
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Post by Soshi Kiso on May 7, 2011 20:49:57 GMT -5
Kiso nodded to Akihiko. I must thank you again for allowing me passage aboard your vessel. I can only hope the arrangements I made with the House of the Rising Sun will be to your liking. He began sampling the plate before him, sipping at his tea. He looked out, watching the land go by in the distance. I can see why the Mantis enjoy traveling upon the waters. Beyond the most basic of advantages, of course. I could stare for hours with hardly a want. Kiso finished his plate, saving the majority of his tea to enjoy. But yes, you will have the honor of meeting with my Champion. Though I am unsure whether Haruka-sama will be there as well, all depending on what duties befall them at the moment.I must say I have been enjoying your company the last few days Akihiko-sama, but I think I might need to spend the day going over information given to me on my momentary visit home. He taps the satchel that lay at his feet. I have arranged to meet some of those I leave in charge of Shiro no Soshi while at Pleasure City and wouldn't want them to think I ignore their reports.[ooc: I think if given the opportunity we could rambling on for a few pages, but let's jump ahead to the meeting to get the others involved. Once they get a chance to make their way to the city, I'll make a post about the setting of the establishment. ]
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Post by vegandeathmachine on May 7, 2011 22:13:26 GMT -5
[Agreed.]
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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 May 8, 2011 0:47:42 GMT -5
Bayushi Senshi traveled lightly, with just enough entourage to travel well protected and quickly. He paid heed to Kiso's suggestion, but just hoped he would arrive in good enough time to not be considered late.
He left without Haruka, but left notice for her to follow if she so chose, he had faith she'd be able to beat him there, even with his head start.
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Post by vegandeathmachine on May 8, 2011 7:14:27 GMT -5
[OOC: There is a house in New Orleans They call the Rising Sun And it's been the ruin of many a poor boy And God I know I'm one
My mother was a tailor She sewed my new bluejeans My father was a gamblin' man Down in New Orleans
Now the only thing a gambler needs Is a suitcase and trunk And the only time he's satisfied Is when he's on a drunk
Oh mother tell your children Not to do what I have done Spend your lives in sin and misery In the House of the Rising Sun
Well, I got one foot on the platform The other foot on the train I'm goin' back to New Orleans To wear that ball and chain
Well, there is a house in New Orleans They call the Rising Sun And it's been the ruin of many a poor boy And God I know I'm one So, is this song by The Animals an accurate reflection of the Scorpion Clan's intentions towards Akihiko? ]
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Post by Soshi Kiso on May 8, 2011 9:00:08 GMT -5
The ship pulled into the docks of Zakyo Toshi with ease. Many Scorpion vessels could be seen amongst those of the merchants, some bearing signs of encounters with pirates on the River of Gold. Gathering his paperwork together, Kiso thanked the Mantis sailors for their hospitality, and bowed to Akihiko. Akihiko-sama, I believe we are expected in one of the finest geisha houses, the House of the Rising Sun. If you would follow me, I believe I remember the way.
Making their way through the busy port, merchants of all kinds peddling their wares to passersbys. It could be noted that some odd new items existed in some of these trades. Goods of the geijin we're already making their appearance. He made sure to keep clear of the Black Market areas of the city while they made passage. It wasn't difficult, as the citizens had experience of hiding their dealings from Imperial Troops for hundreds of years.
Reaching their destination was obvious to them clearly. The fine architecture set the building apart from those around it. The tedious manner which went to keeping it a shining light amongst the drab could not be ignored. Keeping with it's reputation, when Kiso and Akihiko were spotted on the street, the owner of the geisha house had been informed, and was waiting for them at the entrance.
"Soshi Kiso-sama!" He spoke all too loudly, ensuring those along the street would hear the name drop of his customers this evening. "What a delight to have you back with us! As requested, I have arranged the finest room for you and your guests!" With hardly a pause, "Yoritomo Akihiko-sama! What a delight to serve the Daimyo of the Yoritomo! Please, please, come in!"
With that, the two we're escorted through the main room to a large and finely furnished room at the far wall of the house. It could be noted that unlike most rooms, this one had walls of wood, not paper. The entrance to which not a screen, but a door, also made of wood. There was no exterior window, but many lamps kept the room well lit.
Along the right and left side were short tables, holding bottle after bottle of the finest sake. Each carefully marked and labeled that the drinker may know the vintage. On the far side, a small table with various jars, each also carefully marked and labeled. These holding numerous teas from throughout Rokugan. Obviously every samurai's vintage could appear to be accounted for.
The finest art depicting famous Scorpion and Mantis events littered the walls. The owner ensured to make his customers every moment would be enjoyable. Kiso had to wonder which room in the place had rows upon rows of art to be selected from for the clientele. Even with the large, solid table in the middle of the room, there was room for three of the largest Crab samurai to walk shoulder to shoulder from the edge of the table to the wall, and room for twelve to seat comfortably around it. Several geisha awaited them within the room, bowing deeply upon their entrance. Knowing how well the clientele was handled here, Kiso pondered if any of them were also the finest courtesans koku could buy.
The owner smiled deeply, and assured them that when the others arrived, he would quickly escort them personally.
Well, Akihiko-sama, what drink do you fancy tonight? Kiso's smile caught Akihiko by surprise. Had he seen the Soshi Daimyo smile before?
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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 May 8, 2011 14:38:02 GMT -5
Even with the challenge declared in the note. Haruka would not be attending with her husband, and he was on his own for the time being while she remained in Kyuden Bayushi.
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Post by vegandeathmachine on May 8, 2011 21:18:51 GMT -5
Yoritomo Akihiko chuckled to himself as he let Soshi Kiso-sama guide him through the city to the House of the Rising Sun. He knew more than one Scorpion city, and he certainly knew what a disreputable part of town looked like.
Still, he appreciated the skill with which the Soshi daimyo steered him delicately around the more unseemly parts of town. The overturned cart blocking the more direct path was well-arranged.
----
Upon reaching the House of the Rising Sun, Akihiko was pleasantly surprised by the building. He wondered if the neighboring shops were paid to appear slightly rundown; if so, well played.
Unused to be so fawned over, the new Champion was momentarily taken aback. Oh yes, I'm important now.
Akihiko seated himself comfortably at the table.
"Thank you, Kiso-sama. I do believe I will start with tea, and, later, for sake, hmmm ... Bishamon's Blessing, perhaps ?" [OOC: a sake, bold in flavor, with a hint of spiciness.]
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Post by Soshi Kiso on May 10, 2011 21:13:11 GMT -5
That sounds delightful. Kiso looked at one of the geisha, who had already selected the appropriate jar.
Bayushi Senshi-sama should be with us shortly, until then, while we are in the lap of luxury...... I'm curious what Akihimo-sama indulges himself with for pleasure? I feel I have been simple in my life, the chance to pray and meditate at temples across the land brings me joy.
Although as a hobby, it must sound a little strange. But I think I would enjoy painting. With all the land I've seen, the ability to capture the awe inspiring vision with paint..... Alas, I used up what supplies I would have had in that regard helping the Lion with their libraries.
Two cups were set on the table, one in front of each of them. The freshly brewed tea was ceremoniously poured, showing real training on the part of the geisha.
Kiso lifted his tea cup. Until stronger drinks find their way to our bellies!
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Post by vegandeathmachine on May 11, 2011 8:13:54 GMT -5
He sipped his tea thoughtfully for a moment,
"Well, Kiso-sama, as a samurai, I have been tutored in a variety of the more refined pastimes: poetry, music, calligraphy, go, etc. But, aside from my more obvious passion for battle, I would have to say weapon and armor smithing is the one that truly moves me."
"Something about taking the crude bits of iron, leather, and silk; working them, shaping them. They are gradually refined to something beautiful Something which, at it's heart, is still a crude, violent thing. After all, doesn't the sage say 'Weapons are instruments of ill omen'? But, despite that lurking menace and promise of violence, the beauty is undeniable."
"I'm certainly no Kakita, Kaiu or Tsi; my talents in this field are quite meager. Not as meager as my talent at poetry, as Kitsune Keshi-sama never tires of reminding me."
"I suppose it is somewhat sad that my relaxation from my life of war is essentially just preparation for war."
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Post by Soshi Kiso on May 11, 2011 15:54:05 GMT -5
Kiso sipped the tea before him, enjoying the small subtleties in it's flavor. I have tried my hand at smithing, but I make a much better assistant in that art. I can appreciate the hard work that goes into something beautiful, as well as "functional". But in the manners to how our hobbies are performed, they essentially do for the us the same in the end.
You make weapons and armor for upcoming battles, whenever they may be. My meditation and prayers throughout the land have made me many friends amongst the kami. It makes it easier to destroy your opponents if the kami look favorably upon you when called.
Kiso pondered bringing up the fact they had similar backgrounds, both having had fathers that were ronin at one point or another. But that could cast a damper on the evening. He stole a glance at the door, only hoping his Daimyo had got his message in time.
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Post by vegandeathmachine on May 14, 2011 7:29:31 GMT -5
Akihiko took another sip of tea,
"I suppose we are all captives to our karma, eh? Lamenting the fact will change nothing."
"I hope I'm not out of line by bringing up matters of import so quickly, but how goes the trade in Scorpion lands? I feel we have addressed the difficulties the Crab were having, and matters on the ocean have been settled. My attentions have been rather more northward of late..."
"I can't wait to be done with these beastly yobanjin; they are hardly a proper enemy. Although, I suppose I could use it as an opportunity to visit with the Unicorn..."
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Post by Soshi Kiso on May 14, 2011 9:58:15 GMT -5
I too, admit to tiring of the Yobajin. While Kaneka-sama seems to be handling things, the threat has not ended. The Emerald Champion is marching very slowly to reinforce, which makes me believe he is doing so deliberately, allowing the death of far too many samurai....for what? Some minor political move in the eyes of the Emperor?
But I have no desire to speak of him tonight, we may talk on the matter another time. Kiso took a long sip of his tea. He had hoped to had moved on to sake before they discussed the route, but he had never been the best at small talk, and it appeared, neither did Akihiko.
Well, I must admit that the route is coming along faster then I had anticipated, to which I must say the Mantis did a fine job. As you well know, I spent many a fortnight in Kyuden Gotei hoping to bring the route through Scorpion lands. We have many areas untouched by already established trade routes, and wanted to bring this opportunity to the benefit of both our clans.
Kiso sighed. Alas, while the route does indeed go through our lands, the merchants go right by us, not even stopping to trade wares once they return from Outsider Keep. If anything, we have had to commit more magistrates to protecting the merchants traveling through. The extra expenses worry me, when our income does not increase with it.
I desire a long and fruitful relationship with you and your clan, as I can assure you Bayushi Senshi-sama desires the same. I have found you to be an honorable and honest man through our time together, though I do not say so to curry favor. I hope to seek your help in remedying this current predicament, lest less fortunate brothers and sisters go bankrupt in the process.
I do have one idea to seek the desired result, but I will be honest with you, its not the most reputable solution. He took the last sip from his cup, the closest geisha filled it once again the second the cup hit the table.
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Post by vegandeathmachine on May 14, 2011 19:53:55 GMT -5
[OOC: Man, you know I have nothing to do with the rewards for trade only showing up in Unicorn and Mantis lands; dirty pool, Kiso-san ] Allowing the mention of the Shogun to pass unmentioned, Akihiko sighed and replied: "I am grateful that this trade route will help strengthen the Mantis' relationship with the other clans. Likewise, I am glad that we are both working to foster better ties of friendship between our two clans."
"Sadly, there is little I can do about the nature of the trade, only it's safety. There is always the option of attaching Scorpion to the trade routes along it's entirety. The same could be done with the Hare and Crab as well. This would foster increased social contact, as well as economic ties. Perhaps building dedicated trading quarters in cities along the route could provide the localized financial benefits desired..."Akihiko seems a little concerned at the mention of a less than reputable solution, "I must admit, I am curious as to this last suggestion...what would you propose?"
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