Toku Hirotomo
Monkey Clan
Bushi Paragon of Compassion Clan Champion Toturi's Army
Posts: 793
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Post by Toku Hirotomo on Jun 1, 2011 22:57:50 GMT -5
Chiyuki received a note and smiled mysteriously. Hirotomo gave her a quizzical look, but she said nothing for the moment. Courtiers and secrets, Hirotomo thought as he sighed inwardly.
Chiyuki looked at the note she was given and smiled. So, Uta..Bayushi Haruka was here, that was really good news. She smiled at Alana, "I would love nothing better, Alana-san." she said kindly and began hunting for the Lady Scorpion.
Hirotomo saw Chiyuki wander off and moved to follow her. Probably on another of her flights of fancy. He was not entirely surprised to see her dive into the thick of the Scorpions. She spoke a few moments to a courtier and then moved on. He was surprised to see that she was apparently heading to the wife of the Scorpion Clan Champion. How did she know her? He stood slightly behind her with a neutral look on his face. Personally, he had a neutral opinion of the Scorpion, but they did make him nervous sometimes. His clan was traditionally close to them, but he was trained by the Crane and the two clans did not always get along. Training does not go away.
"Baiyushi Haruka-sama. It's very pleasant to see you again. It was due, in no small part, to your assistance, I was able to complete my Gempukku. I would like to introduce my Lord, Champion Toku Kenpachi'-sama's son, Toku Hirotomo-sama. We are both amazed and truly humbled by the magnificence of your lands." She gave a casual look around the embassy. "The celebration's nice too." She did not forget the stares of the Crane during her adventure in the Imperial Court. She had a bit of a grudge.
Hirotomo, for his part, fought back a wince when she introduced him as "sama". It was enough of a pain in the ass for Alliance to make a big deal about it. Why did his friends now have to join in? He bowed politely to Bayushi Haruka with a wry grin. "Simply Hirotomo will do if you find no offense in it, my lady." He smiled. He found little use in extravagant formalities. He was polite and sincerely kind, but he was after all a bushi. Chiyuki nudged him a little hiding her movement by drawing her fan. Courtiers Hirotomo sighed again. "This is my first visit to the Scorpion lands. Your clansmen have been most gracious hosts. Both my father and I are humbled by your hospitality. There, that should save his ribs from becoming more intimate from Chiyuki's fan. When the hell did she file a point into it?
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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 Jun 2, 2011 0:55:47 GMT -5
"Hirotomo-san," she said gently as she bowed lightly to him, "And Chiyuki-san." Bowing to her as well from where she sat. "I'm certainly pleased you managed to make your way here. I honestly wasn't expecting such lovely samurai to accompany me tonight. If there is anything you might require, you need only ask Toku-sans.." There was an honest smile on her face as she looked to them. Hirotomo might wonder what kind of Scorpion this was, but then he might recall she was once a strange Unicorn woman before being taken under the wing of the Scorpion clan. However her tone and general relaxed state were a great blessing to allow the two to let down their guard a bit. She wished to maintain the gentle friendship she'd begun in Toshi Ranbo.
Alana was already two steps ahead of Haruka as she brought out more tea for them each to partake in as she bowed low. She would take a content sip as she let the warmth of the tea soothe her throat. "You must forgive me for not standing and greeting you myself, Toku-sans. I would have loved to have greeted you more personally but I've taken a bit ill in these past few days, and other recent events have not assisted in my healing." She raised her hand in a pacifying gesture.
"But not to worry, it is nothing I cannot handle. Please, sit. You must be tired from your travels." With one hand still on her tea, her other hand rested on her obi which loosely seemed to disguise a distinct change in her figure. Most importantly that it had increased noticeably.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 1:46:17 GMT -5
Chiyuki's face was briefly marred by a look of concern. She looked at Haruka with a brief look of surprise and then a blush. Hirotomo was once again confused. Still, this Scorpion seemed very nice. Well enough expected he supposed. She was born Utaku and his father spoke highly of the importance that family placed on honor.
Hirotomo accepted the seat and the tea gratefully. He let it cool slightly before drinking it. Perhaps he was picking up a few bad habits. Love did that he was told. Chiyuki began telling Haruka what had happened since they last parted. She started with her Gempakku ceremony, and to her recent appointment working for the Alliance's Scorpion ambassador, an elderly Sparrow. She hesitated when she started to speak about his father's unexpected elevation. She looked to Hirotomo and he stepped in. "Toku Sanjuro-sama has become missing following an encounter in the Crane lands near Three Sides River. We've discovered through shugenja that he's alive, but his memory is lost. My father assumed the mantle until he can be found. He did not speak further about it. He did not speak with concern, he trusted in his father and Sanjuro-sama. This was supposed to be a celebration.
Kenpachi-sama has been doing an admirable job. He will be remembered as among the greatest of our Clan's Champions." Chiyuki said looking around slightly. She did not want anyone to see weakness in her clan. By the Kami, Hirotomo was obtuse far too often. He was polite, but he needed to word things differently. He would have to learn to be more than just a swordsmen if Sanjuro-sama was not found, or if something happened to force leadership on him. He was far too optimistic. He needed to face reality.
She was very happy to see Haruka again. Few people treated her with more than thinly veiled contempt, let alone kindness. In a harsh world it was nice to know there were people like her. She resisted the urge to offer medical advice. She was the Champion's wife, there were probably far more skilled people looking out for her. She needed to get Hirotomo more relaxed. He could be charming when he removed the scabbard from his backside.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 3:14:58 GMT -5
For now it would remain a light hearted and delicate exchange between the three as Alana continued to serve them as needed. Haruka seemed to watch her lightly as she did, not for any particularly serious reason other than to ensure that she was not troubled by her tasks.
"I'm certain he will do a fine job as Champion. I have seen him fight in the thick of the shadowlands and he is and honorable man and a force to be reckoned with." A proud light coming through in her eyes. "We do as we must for clan and country, no need to question the worthiness of those appointed. It does not do well to dwell on the uncertain things in this world, for they are countless like the stars." Taking a long sip of her tea, she was doing well to avoid focusing too much on her condition as she'd been quiet about it since the bloodspeaker was prowling around.
"Even I did not choose my place to be the Champion's wife, but it is simply so. I will never question Senshi-sama's judgment, so never concern yourself with the possibilities Toku-sans. By the fortunes what is meant to be, will be." She gave a flinch of a broadening smile before taking another drink. She wasn't used to having to reserve her emotions, nor did she wish to at the moment, but it didn't do well to get too carried away.
"I hope at least you might be able to lose yourselves to the party somewhat as I have. The battles are finally over at mountain watch keep, and only more victory is to come in the wake of our united success." She lifted her glass as if to toast to her own words a bit before finishing the tea. Although she silently wondered when the others might be arriving, not that there was anything wrong with catching up with some good acquaintances, but her gaze would gently shift to other arrivals in the room from time to time before she settled back down.
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Doji Naetaru
Crane Clan
Doji Daimyo - Courtier - Otomo Twin
Posts: 687
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Post by Doji Naetaru on Jun 2, 2011 3:39:43 GMT -5
Naetaru's figure seem to slither around, among the invited guests of the embassy. He had a polite smile on his face, nodding to the guests as proper of their rank, but for now they were not as many as he would expect,yet.
For a moment, with the corner of his eyes, he caught the slender figure of his long family friend and recent Kakita daimyo, Kakita Mitsouko. He smiled, for he could recall the recent events that warranted the old daimyo's retirement. How amazed was Naetaru, when he was informed of his friends sudden promotion. Nodding to her, he approached her and her retinue.
"Good afternoon Mitsouko-sama, welcome to the embassy of the Crane. I hope that the fortune's guided you and your friends well on your trip to the City of Lies. How was your trip?"
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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 Jun 2, 2011 9:21:41 GMT -5
Thank you very much, Agasha-san. I wish to say you had a surprisingly quick recover and looks great, as well.
Her eyes scanned the place and soon recognized the elegant figure of Mikado's brother, Doji Naetaru, the new Crane Ambassador to the Scorpion. She smiled at the nice words of him.
Naetaru-san, I am very glad to meet you. Yes, our travel was full of good results, I must say. She exchanged a quick glance to Sho-san.
Thank you very much for honoring lady Doji name with this superb soiree. I can't wait to enjoy the poetry you promised us... Agasha Shodai-san, this is Doji Naetaru, our new Ambassador to the Scorpion clan. I am sure that Doji-san will provide any help you need here. then turning again to her host. I introduce you the Phoenix Void Master, the Voice of the Phoenix Council, and my personal friend. I am amazed he accepted to attend this celebration.
It was needless to say more about the representative of Phoenix clan presence, she was sure the Embassador had prepared everything for the meeting they intended to have with Scorpion, Crane, Phoenix and, hopefully, Dragon. The northern clan had sent note that they would like to join, but she didn't saw any of them yet. But the night was still to begin. Please, show us the inner, Naetaru-san. I am curious.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 11:29:47 GMT -5
Hirotomo let Chiyuki do most of the talking. He was surveying the surrounding Scorpions. He had a brief moment of sadness when she explained her marriage so matter-of-factly. He hated the political games. He knew he would never understand, and that perhaps it was best for the Empire. That did not mean that he had to like it. She expressed hope that this would distract them as well as her. What was she forgetting?
"I'm sure my father would agree on the prospect of not choosing the path fate take you on." Hirotomo said wryly, thinking of his father's sudden elevation, and briefly and bitterly about his mother and brother. "The celebration is distracting enough though. Not to sound too dark, but it seems there is getting less and less to celebrate about recently. The levity of this evening should help banish those thought until the next thing to worry about crops up." He gave a sheepish smile.
Hirotomo almost broght up the creature from the shadowlands, then thought better about it. Not here, he was spending too much time with less than traditional samurai. Chiyuki spoke of her grandmother, a former Shosuro's recipe for regaining health. She lost him at the live carp.
He looked around at the party for a moment. More Crane coming in. Too be expected. Daidoji Fitsu was on the verge of becoming a household name. He was fond of his classmates and his cousin, but the Crane did have a habit of shouting their successes across the Empire. It wasn't his koku though so he may as well enjoy the party.
"Speaking of united success," Hirotomo said after he finished his tea only mildly hotter than Rinko prefers, "The Monkey's always believed the best of the Empire is shown when we all work toward a common goal. I'm happy to see that idea proved correct. Personally, I see less of a victory against the gaijin, and more of a victory of a united Rokugan.Far away as that dream may be. Hirotomo added silently.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 12:00:49 GMT -5
Haruka nodded to Hirotomo. "When the clans become content, you know what will happen." She quietly admired the make of the cup as she allowed Alana to fill it once more, but for now she seemed to allow the liquid to settle.
Her eyes were a bit more intense than before, "The only trouble with losing our distractions as a country is the same problem that the heron faces when hunting the fish. The water will stop distorting and they will see one another for who they really are."
She took a delicate sip. "But which clan will emerge a hunter, and which the prey. I care not to think on it." She shook her head looking dejected. It seemed to silently pain her as her demeanor changed, for a moment before she took in a breath and allowed herself to calm.
"Perhaps it's time for the sake, and some food." Nodding to Alana who disappeared dutifully. Haruka producing her own sake cup as she rested it for now, as her fingers ran over the delicate paintings of Kyuden Bayushi.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 16:51:36 GMT -5
Shodai gave the Ambassador a respectful nod. "I look forward to seeing what you have planned, Doji-san. You will find that my personal needs are relatively simple: good tea and plenty of it for the most part."[/b]
The Void Master then turned to the Kakita Daimyo. "As for my choosing to attend, Mitsouko-san, how could I refuse given how passionately you argued the importance of it in Kosaten Shiro a few weeks ago? While my clan has a reputation for being pacifistic diplomats, we also know when the time for words ends and that of action begins. If there was ever such a time in the history of the Empire that action is called for, it is now."[/b]
Agasha allowed his hands to rest on the small of his back. "And while, for the time being at least, the Elemental Council has entrusted the bulk of our authority to Shiba Kazuma, our Clan Champion, as head of the Council it is my duty to stay apprised of any diplomatic matters that could require long-term action on the part of the Clan."[/b]
"Besides..."[/b] Shodai said, giving Mitsouko a wink, "I'm interested in seeing how my negotiation skills compare to those of yourself and the others."[/b]
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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 Jun 2, 2011 18:04:14 GMT -5
All we need, Sho-san, is to agree. We have a clear example right now. Crab and Crane together changed the flow of the war. There was the massive block of the Shogun and The Emerald Champion, but when strategy and force are united to an element of surprise… the obvious happened. To it to happen, the generals needed to exchange information, grow in knowledge, act in synchronism. And of course, we had our own experience of how it can work well. She grinned, playfully now. Then Mikado asked her attention for a minute, while Naetaru was getting to them to be served, as the Void Master mentioned tea. Look Mitsouko-sama, that lady seated with Hirotomo-san and his friend Fuzake is the spouse of the Scorpion Champion. Bayushi Haruka, the new Mistress of the Secrets. I remember her from Toshi Ranbo… I need to tell you what she made against the vile tainted bloodspeakers! Mikado's blue eyes widened in emotion, while her comment was entirely covert by her gorgeous fan.
Mitsouko vaguely remember to take notice about Bayushi Senshi’s marriage. With an Unicorn Battle maiden, it seems. But by the time Mitsouko was trying not to die, so unfortunately she would not be present…well, she had no personal relations with them, anyway. Mitsouko looked to the woman, who seemed at first sight her features transmitted a strong character. A trace of the Unicorn Battle Maidens. Mitsouko wondered what made her appearance a bit dislocated that evening. By the side of the fizzy Chyuki, her weariness was evident. I think my cousin is tired from me around him, but I think we can say hello and meet lady Bayushi at the same time. With a subtle touch in Agasha's back, Mitsouko showed to Sho-san she liked him to go with her. She said, giving no time to a reaction, before walking through the hall to the trio sided by the Doji siblings and the Void Master.
Good evening. She said simply, directing to all. I didn't have the opportunity to give you my sincere congratulations in the ocasion of your marriage, Lady Bayushi-san. But I think never is late to such things. She smiled to the Battle Maiden. Mitsouko's contralto voice was uncommom, but fitted well with her appearance not quite well tamed as the Doji lady at her side. It's really a pleasure meet you in this party, this evening. So we can know each other finally.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 18:46:23 GMT -5
As Hirotomo was about to respond, Mitsouko came to the trio followed by Sho. Hirotomo and Chiyuki rose and bowed to the new arrivals. Hirotomo had not yet properly introduced themto Chiyuki, as he did not travel with them here due to his stop at home. He also did not realize that the marriage of Haruka-san was that recent. Perhaps he should have paid better attention to Chiyuki.
He saw Mitsouko's attendants and wondered idly if the trappings of the Bonge annoyed her at all as it did him. The usual introductions were made. "Mitsouko-san, Sho-san, please allow me to introduce Fuzake Chiyuki, she works for the Alliance's embassy to the Scorpion. Chiyuki bowed and smiled demurely. "It's an honor to meet you Kakita-sama. It's not everyday one is blessed with the presence of a Family Daimyo." She smiled sweetly at the Phoenix. "Hirotomo has told me much about your bravery and skill. On behalf of my clan, thank you for not allowing him to get himself killed." She gave a silvery laugh.
Hirotomo winced again. She did not need to go THAT far. It wasn't as if he charged in. He pulled his weight. Still, she probably had some goal here. His father always stated it was best if the others underestimated their clan. Attention almost always turns negative.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 19:05:32 GMT -5
Haruka's eyes flashed a bit at Chiyuki. She was getting a bit emboldened, but she knew she was just being a bit playful. She bowed her head, as she was seated, thanking the Crane.
"I am most pleased to meet you Mitsouko-san. I always appreciate the kind words and the well wishes of any honorable soul.
Your clansman has done a fine job at the embassy tonight in mixing the two clans together. I hope your travel was well."
She looked between the Crane and Phoenix a bit, analyzing them somewhat with her eyes as she was very curious to their relationship considering they'd arrived together.
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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 Jun 2, 2011 20:32:16 GMT -5
Knowing a little my cousin, Fuzake-san, I know he didn’t tell you about his own bravery and skill…To know about his feats by his own mouth is difficult task, I know it very well. But both Hirotomo and Kenpachi-san mentioned our spirit and grace; they not lied at all! A bit surprised by the over effusive and self confident behavior of the Monkey Courtier, Mitsouko returned the compliment. Mikado excused herself and left them and she hoped the Doji woman wasn’t shocked with the girl. And I see, Hirotomo-san, a happier mood in your face. I suppose it is due your short travel to see your betrothed. Then Mitsouko turned to the Scorpion lady. Yes, Naetaru, our Embassador in your land, is the responsible. Our clan is very satisfied with this choice. Looking at the two men by her side, Mitosuko introduced the Phoenix shugenja to Bayushi Haruka: Do you already know Agasha Shodai, the new Void Master of the Phoenix Elemental Council, Haruka-san?
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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 Jun 2, 2011 20:57:36 GMT -5
Hirotomo turned to Chiyuki and gave her a brief smug smile. She must have done something with her sensei to cure her of her shy behavior. Or perhaps the Sparrow she was working under gave her a few tips. He was not sure. Either way she was acting like her Scorpion training. Her talkative childhood lent well to the role. "The detals are still being worked out, Misouko-san. Father's been busy lately. It was good to see Rinko-san though. Especially lately."
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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 Jun 2, 2011 21:26:49 GMT -5
She shook her head delicately and nodded a bowing motion to him as well. She would not speak as to interrupt Hirotomo, allowing him to finish before addressing the Phoenix.
"It is my pleasure to meet all who make their way to this event, Sho-san. Such a wide range of representatives of great clans certainly elevates the occasion into something more wonderous. But naturally it is one of the rare opportunities to meet those that I otherwise might not."
She tried to avoid calling the party anything political or formal to keep things light and cheery. Taking out her hand fan, she gently aired herself as the heat of the tea got to her somewhat. Haruka assumed it better to listen in as she quieted down and simply watched and enjoyed the company.
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