Shosuro Shinobu was waiting for them when they arrived.  "Please, Kenshin-san, Satoru-san," her smiling voice called from behind the shoji screen, "what word do you bring from the Crane regarding our proposals?"

What was the proper thing to do?

His Lady had asked a question, one that was clearly not meant for him, and so he should sit quietly awaiting her dismissal. Yet, there was information that she -- that they -- needed. Should he tell her now? Or wait until later?

Kenshin decided that quiet was what she needed from him right now. His charge was always perceptive, though in this case the large sword-shaped gash in his kimono would certainly provide a few clues.

Kenshin quietly gestured to Satoru, giving him a place to sit, and then quietly sat himself. This meeting, after all, had nothing to do with Kenshin ...

[Kenshin will sit quietly, not interrupting his superior, until asked a question or otherwise directed to do otherwise. He's hurt pretty badly, but his duties must come first.]

"Kenshin-san!" Shinobu gasps when the shoji screen opens, "go get Manami-san!" she calls out, "you went out to retrieve Satoru-san," she asks quietly, as they wait for the Shugenja to arrive, "what did you encounter that injured you so?"

"Samurai" Kenshin replied respectfully. "They wore Blue and the armor of Ashigaru. They also had the training of seasoned Daidoji Irregulars."

"They seem to have been after the Crane Magistrate -- Daidoji Sakura-Sama I believe is her name -- and her Ronin; but, they jeopardized my charge, so I had to dispatch some of them."

One of the ironies of being a trustworthy Scorpion was that the Scorpion rarely trusted you with their secrets.

"I'm sorry to have caused you this trouble ..."

"Do not apologize for things that are not your fault, Kenshin-san," Shinobu grumbles, "what do the Crane think of this...incident?

As Shosuro Shinobu speaks Soshi Manami enters, and, without batting an eye, begins summoning the Kami to heal the injured Junshin.

OOC:  heal 12 wounds ^_^

"Kakita Ichiro-San, my Sempai from the Kakita Dueling Academy, was quite upset at the turn of events" Kenshin replied. "A Daidoji Shugenja and her Yojimbo also entered the fray, assisting Daidoji-Sama."

"A Doji was also there, bringing news to the magistrate. He was quite upset at the turn of events as well. Also ..."

Kenshin paused, trying to remember the exact words.

"Daidoji Sakura-Sama yelled something to the attackers, something about the corruption being embraced destroying what they are trying to save ..."

"They also said that they were going directly to the Governor's Mansion ..."

[If I missed any Crane PCs, it wasn't on purpose ...]

"Interesting..." Shosuro Shinobu says thoughtfully, "though the immediate concerns of the Crane are a concern for us, they are not our immediate concerns.  How do you feel that the Crane will react to an offer of military alliance from the Scorpion?"

Kenshin thought for a moment. Never one to reply to hastily, for fear of dishonoring his superiors, he wanted to be sure to do right by his Clan.

"I have not had much chance to speak to them directly" he finally replied, "but I have observed a few things. There are going to be plenty within the Daidoji that will merely consider the offer a ruse, however it is the Doji that are in charge of this city."

"The Doji are an honorable lot, and the governor seems wise. Further the Magistrate seems to be acquainted with another Scorpion, one who wears the Bayushi Mon but was trained among the Daidoji. The Governor would have to consider such an offer if it were made, and if it is as it seems ..."

He paused, considering the honor of the Monk that was present with them.

"... if the situation is as it seems -- if the Daidoji have turned on the Crane in this city -- then he may more easily be persuaded. If, on the other hand, it is not as it seems -- if it is an outside force pretending to be Daidoji -- they may be more ready to accept our aid."

"It is, after all, the Duty of the Scorpion ..."

He paused once again, bowing as he did so.

"There will, of course, be the usual accusations in private, though the Governor seems both fair and honorable so he certainly will quickly quash those. But, as I said, I have not discussed the matter with anyone so I may be mistaken ..."

Kenshin knew that his Mistress already knew the answer before she asked; it was just a matter of his catching up to reality ...

"Very well," Shosuro Shinobu smiles, "I would have you carry an offer of military alliance for the duration of the imminent Lion attack and in return all that we ask is the opportunity to foster a few younger samurai among the Crane for a year and day."

Kenshin bowed.

"Of course, my Lady" Kenshin replied, "by your leave ..."

[Once dismissed, he will head straight to the Governor's place.]

"Go well," Shinobu bows, "and may your duty prove successful."

"Well, Kenshin-san, how did your visit with our hosts go?" Shosuro Shinobu asks when Bayushi Kenshin enters.

"It went well, my Lady" Kenshin answered with an appropriate bow. "They accepted our offer. They would like to know how many troops we will provide."

"Excellent," Shosuro Shinobu smiles, "you may tell Governor Kasarugi at your convenience that five kaisha will arrive within five days^*.  Now tell me, Kenshin-san, what is your desire?"

* it would take five kaisha to arrive from Scorpion lands at least a week; for them to be here in five days means that they would have had to set out the same day that Miya Shiko arrived

Two days early. That means that the Clan had more information than he was given. Of course, that was always the case. They would have been here with or without a treaty.

But it was, nonetheless, much better for both parties if there was a treaty in place.

"My desire is to serve my Clan."

For another, this would have been a polite -- but meaningless -- response. But in Kenshin's case, this is exactly what he wished.

"Perhaps I could ask the Governor where he might have need of me while I deliver my response? I am not a tactician, but we could lay some groundwork before the others arrive ..."

"We will deliver word to the relevant parties when necessary," Shinobu replies, shaking her head, "no, Kenshin, it is you we must discuss.  Service to the Clan of Secrets requires more than loyalty and devotion--which you have in abundance--it also requires thought and consideration.  You are a samurai, which means that you are more than a weapon, you must learn to make the decisions which you believe will be most beneficial to the Clan and pursue it to its conclusions.  So I ask again, Kenshin-san, what is your desire?"

"Wakarimash'ta* ..."

It had been a little rough for him, trying to get used to the Clan of Secrets. He knew that he was not trusted -- by most, anyways. He thought for a moment.

"If I am to be of use in the courts, then I must gain experience there. Also, my wife is still new to the Clan."

"I would like to take her to visit the Imperial compound, to see what we might discover from that end. Then we could visit the Courts of the Governor."

"It would be a perfect opportunity to get used to the courts; the Crane cannot afford a scandal right now, so it would be less pressure for us -- yet still real experience."

"There is also the issue of why we were attacked in the first place ..."

[Lit. "Understood", in context also "Yes ma'am ..."]

"Yes, regarding that," Shosuro Shinobu replies, considering, "we have information, much of it conflicting, but matters seem to be coming to a head--I expect that it will resolve itself, one way or another.  You are too valuable an asset to be wasted managing the internal conflicts of the Crane--observe and report, but do not needlessly entangle yourself.  The honor of the Scorpion lies in knowing when to act as much as how."

"Of course, my Lady."

Kenshin waited for direction.

[Technically, he's still her Yojimbo ...]

Sakura and her new Yojimbo arrived at the Scorpion compound without any trouble.

"Konnichiwa" she politely told the guard, with a slight bow, "would you please tell Shosuro Shinobu-San that Daidoji Sakura and her yojimbo, Daidoji Kumi, are here. I would like to know if she has a moment for the Crane ...?"

The message would be clear enough.

"Please enter and be welcome, Daidoji Kasumi-san, Daidoji Kumi-san," Shosuro Shinobu smiles at the Daidoji Shugenja and her yojimbo before addressing the Scorpion bushi, "Kenshin-san, please find your wonderful wife and tell her that the Scorpion have a great deal of ground to make up in the courts, and she will--if you will excuse my military metaphor--spearhead our efforts.

"Now, Daidoji-san," she says, returning to the two Crane, "what brings you to the Scorpion?"

"Thank you, my Lady ..." Kenshin rose and, after the proper bow, went to find Bayushi Shinobu.

His wife.

Sakura waited for Kenshin to leave before addressing Shinobu.

"On behalf of Lord Kuwanan, I wanted to thank you for your assistance with the Lion. This was an important matter to him."

She then looked briefly to Kumi, wanting to know if she desired to speak.

"I have a personal matter to discuss," Kumi shrugs, eying Sakura, "but it can wait for a more convenient time."

"Very well," Shinobu nods to the Daidoji irregular, before turning to Sakura, "please convey that the Scorpion are always happy to help our cousins among the Crane--who else among the Clans understands the need for finesse as well?"

OOC:  Kumi, btw, does not know that Sakura is a Scorpion agent
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:32, Tue 30 June 2009.

Sakura nodded at Kumi's response.

"I will."

"Well, if you'll excuse me for a moment, I should probably thank that young duelist properly for assisting us earlier. I'll be right back, Kumi-Kun"

She knew, of course, that she would be kept in the loop concerning Kumi; there was no need to concern herself with the details.

Bowing out properly, she left the room ...

[Private to Kaze no Kage: Finding Shinobu's sister, if feasible.]

"Well now, Kasumi-san," Shosuro Rei smiles, once you are out of earshot of your new yojimbo, "what brings you here--without your capable yojimbo?"

"We have parted ways" Shosuro Kasumi replied, "for now at least. Daidoji Kumi has been named my Yojimbo ...."

"It seems that Daidoji Ryu is behind the murders, and an attempt on my life this afternoon. Unfortunately I cannot simply have him arrested ... it would do too much to the morale of the Crane. Having him killed would have a similar effect."

"I am strongly considering having a chat with him. Perhaps he can still be reasoned with ... and if his Face can be saved, then Crane morale can also be."

She was completely unaware of Kedo's mission -- and it's results.

"More importantly, however, one of his lieutenants has been tainted and needs to be dealt with, quickly and discretely."

"Then, perhaps I can finish my bath and head the the library ... which is what I started out to do this morning."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:29, Wed 01 July 2009.

"Which lieutenant?" Shosuro Rei asks, death in her voice.

"Daidoji Takagero" she replied. "I haven't tested him person, but the person who killed our detained Shadow Hunter was tainted -- and according to the witnesses, the only person to see him was Tokagero."

One complex hand signal and the whisper of opening and closing shoji later, Shosuro Rei returns to her pleasant, smiling self.  "Was there anything else, Kasumi-san?  Or should I release you to your studies?"

"I'll need to talk to the Junshin briefly" she replied pleasantly, "so that my Yojimbo doesn't get suspicious. Other than that, no."

"Very well, I believe that he is on his way to visit his spouse," Rei replies.

***

"That is wonderful, dear" Bayushi Shinobu replies upon hearing Kenshin's news, "have they mentioned where we will serve?  or will we be allowed to choose our court?  Oh, this is so exciting, I will have to write my cousins to see where I may do the most good!"

Kenshin smiled at his wife's reply. She was still so innocent, but she was Scorpion now. She could stay innocent, but not naieve.

"Hold on, Shinobu-Chan" he said gently. He waited for his wife's attention before continuing.

"You're Bayushi now, the only ones in the Empire that will treat you like a Seppun are your cousins."

He approached her and gently touched her cheek.

"My mistress gave me the choice" he continued. "Neither of us are used to the courts in our current role. I no longer have the protection of the Crane to fall back on, and you no longer have the protection of your father's name."

"So we will go see the Imperial Family here in Toshi Ranbo first and then make our rounds. The object is to get used to the courts in our currently ordained roles -- in a time and place where we will be allowed to practice."

"There will be no time to practice later ..."

"Thank you, Rei-Chan" Sakura said with a polite bow. Then she was off, looking for Kenshin and his wife.

[She'll polite knock when she finds them ...]

"Oh...oh, of course that's right," Shinobu blushes, "I hadn't thought of that...but I believe that I will write to them anyway, for harmless court gossip, nothing more--it would be discourtious to simply cut them off just because we are married," she continues stubbornly, when a soft knocking interrupts their conversation.

"Whoever could that be?" she wonders, "please come in!"

"Of course" Kenshin replied, agreeing with his wife, "and they are still family."

He then awaited the newcomer.

Sakura slid the door politely and bowed to the couple.

"I didn't mean to interrupt. Bayushi Kenshin-San, I just wanted to thank you properly for your help earlier. If there is anything I can do for you, please let me know ..."

"Don't mention it" Kenshin said returning the bow.

"Allow me to introduce you to my wife. This is Daidoji Sakura-Sama, the Crane Magistrate investigating the recent murders. Daidoji Sakura-Sama, this is my wife, Shinobu."

"Sakura-san," Shinobu gushes, "I have heard so much about you!  Your daring adventures are all anyone in the City can talk about these days!  But where is your dark and mysterious yojimbo?  Surely he is still in your service?"

"I have asked him to take another role" Sakura replied polite, "so I have another Yojimbo for now."

Ironically enough, it was a true statement. She had asked -- demanded really -- a role from Kedo. He was to be her Yoriki, though Kedo's response had been "less than enthusiastic". Still, he had yet to give her a firm response.

Still, that would be enough to keep the rumor mills going.

"Forgive me" she continued with a bow, "but I must leave. It was a pleasure meeting you."

"And you, Sakura-san," Shinobu bows, "I'm pleased to see that so few of the pleasant rumors about you are false.  Perhaps we will see each other again."

"I'm sure we will" Sakura replied politely. "Until we meet again ..."

Then she was off. She would need to collect her new Yojimbo before she headed to the library.

Kenshin said his goodbyes and then looked down at his newly tattered kimono.

"I'd better change before we go out" he mused. "And could I get you to look at this as well? I don't know if there's anything you can do ..."

Minami-San had healed him somewhat, but he was still a bit wounded.

Kumi joins Sakura without a word and the two head off to the library.  There, one of the Asakura librarians asks:  "What are you looking for, Daidoji-san?"

[Private to Bayushi Kenshin: is Shinobu a shugenja?  or does she have some medical training?  it's fine if she is/does, I just want to know ^_^]

Sakura bowed to the librarian.

"My repertoire seems to be somewhat insufficient for the task I've been assigned" she replied courteously. "I asked the Governor if I could avail myself of your services, and he said I could get whatever help you deem wise."

"Of course, Daidoji-san," the librarian replies, spreading her arms wide, "but our collection is large.  It would help to know what sort of scrolls you are looking for."

***

"Of course, husband mine," Shinobu smiles, pulling down one of her many scrolls from her shelf.

OOC:  heal 15 wounds

"Yes, that is true" Sakura replied with a smile. "I have two tasks to consider: the upcoming battle and more ... delicate work."

"Is this a pacifistic library? Do you have scrolls such as 'Yari of Air'? Or just things like 'Silent Waters'? Perhaps more important at the moment, do you have someplace I could meditate for a few minutes? My morning has been rather ... hectic."

"Thank you, Shinobu-Chan" he replied softly. "Now let me remove the stains of this morning's battle and we can go to the Imperial compound for a visit. That seems the best place to start, ne?"

He kissed her gently and then went to change.

[Once the necessities are done, and assuming Shinobu doesn't have a better idea, we can head to see the Imperials.]

"Our library is fairly complete, Daidoji-san," the librarian replies, "while the Asahina rarely engage in violence, it behooves us to know all the ways in which the kami communicate.  I will go find them for you," the shugenja gestures down a hall, "There are plenty of alcoves expressly for the purpose of meditation down there Daidoji-san, I will find you when I have your selections."

***

The Imperial wing of the palace is quiet and well guarded by the Seppun.

"Bayushi Shinobu-san, Bayushi Kenshin-san" one bows as you approach, "it has been too long since you have graced these halls.  How can we be of assistance?"

"Thank you" Sakura replied courteously. She then headed to a convenient alcove for some deep contemplation. After all, she had a serious problem to deal with.

Or so she thought.

"We have decided to call on the Clans and pay them courtesy" Kenshin replied with a bow, "but before we did that we wanted to visit the Emperor's Cousins."

"Is this a good time?"

They would have to wait, of course. Even if Shinobu was Seppun by blood, she was no longer so by Mon -- and that was a critical detail.

As Sakura settles down to meditate she can't quite shake the feeling that someone is watching her.  But a thorough search of the area comes up with nothing.  After settling down to meditate, the Daidoji shugenja notes the Asahina librarian unobtrusively delivering the scrolls without disturbing her contemplation.

Hours pass and the nagging sensation simply will not go away...

OOC:  I'm not certain how long you intended to meditate, but assume you did without interruption

***

"Of course, Bayushi-san, Bayushi-san," the Seppun replies, "it is always a good time for the children of Shiba's twin."

Sakura arose from her contemplations without answers. She was being watched, this much she knew, but by who? Was her "faithful yojimbo" paying too much attention to her? Or was there someone else around, waiting for ... something?

She was going to have to be more careful.

Revealing her magics in the bathhouse was a calculated risk -- one that backfired on her. She interfered with the Shadow Hunters and alerted the Shadow to her presence at the same time. Not to mention any others that might have been watching at the time.

Sakura moved to a different location and copied the scrolls she had been given*. After doing so, she returned them to the librarian with her thanks.

Moments later she left the library, paying attention as she went. Who -- or what -- was interested in her?

[I'm assuming this is the proper procedure -- that the scrolls were a loan.]

"Excellent!" Kenshin said with a bow. He then turned to his wife.

"Shinobu-Chan ...?"

She would have a better idea of "who's who" than he would ...

"It's so entertaining watching you work, Daidoji-san," a voice from an unlit corner of the library whispers.  Daidoji Kumi is immediately on her guard, aiguchi in her hands backing you up against the wall.

***

"We'll just be visiting with Otomo Miki, if you don't mind Seppun-san," Shinobu bows before leading the way to the Imperial courtier's meeting room.

"Ah, Shinobu-san, and this must be your husband," Otomo Miki smiles, "please be welcome Bayushi-san."

Sakura showed no surprise at the odd voice.

"So, you show yourself ... in a manner of speaking."

"Thank you" Kenshin said with an appropriately low bow. He decided that he would leave the talking to Shinobu in this case. The Imperial family would not be offended at one of their own if she slipped up ...

"Of course," the voice replies, "your pursuit was quite entertaining--and quite useful, as far as it went--but it has ceased to serve either of our purposes.  Continue to oppose us and you will fail in your other duties--an unwelcome outcome for both of our interests."

Daidoji Kumi looks confused, but she knows that the time for questions is not now.

***

As Otomo Miki and Shinobu began the dance of small talk that always proceeds serious negotiation, another man--wearing the mon of the Seppun pours Kenshin a cup of tea.

"Well, Bayushi-san," he says, cutting right to the heart of the matter, "we've all heard some troublesome rumors the last few days.  Is there any chance you could give us a clearer account?  As much as you're concerned with your wife's welfare, we must be concerned with the Otomo's."

"And just which 'us' are you referring to?" Sakura asked warily.

"I wish I could, Seppun-Sama" Kenshin said, taking a sip of his tea, "but I'm afraid I only came in on the periphery of these events."

"While escorting a humble monk, we met the Crane Magistrate, Daidoji-San. We were then assaulted by a small band of apparent Ronin that fought with the style of the Daidoji Irregulars."

"The only other thing I can tell you without merely repeating rumors is that the Scorpion have offered military aide ..."

"Can". A truthful word, as he had not been given leave to say when the Scorpion Troops were to arrive. Everything else that he said should have already been public knowledge.

"Oh, you have such colorful names for us:  Shadow Spawn, minions of the Lying Darkness, creatures of the Nothing, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera.  Personally, I always liked the name Ninube Tamago," the voice replies.

***

"Well, that is more than we had been able to confirm ourselves," the Seppun replies gratefully, "and would you care to speculate on the unity of our hosts?  After all, if there is to be trouble with the Lion, the Crane must have divergent opinions on how to deal with it."

"So, they feel that I'm dangerous enough to send a Ninube" Sakura replied with a chuckle, "I'm honored."

"To be honest she continued in a more serious tone, "I had moved on to other ... 'more immediately pressing' matters. But I shall certainly give your message due consideration."

Kenshin considered his answer.

"The Daidoji always have different opinions than the more polished Crane families."

It was something of a tautology for those that spent any amount of time with the Crane, and Kenshin had been raised among them.

"The Daidoji are as not well-polished as the Doji or the Kakita, but they are loyal defenders Crane. And while I know very little of what they do, I do know that they're very good at what they do. The Crane consider their irregulars to be worth fifty 'regular' Crane Samurai. No General would just throw that advantage away."

"Whatever they are doing, they will protect this city and their clan. And whatever happens, the Crane will be unified when it's all over."

PM[Private to Daidoji Sakura: so my efforts to bring the Lying Darkness part of the plot to a close fail...again ^_^]

PM
[Private to Kaze no Kage: Oh, I wouldn't tackle this one by myself anyway. hopefully]

"Your continued interest would be useless in any case," the Ninube replies, "we accomplished what we set out to do.  Any further interference on our part would be...counter productive--especially since you seem so dead set against us.  But it seemed discourtious to leave without saying farewell and good luck.  Should you survive, we will be watching your future career with great interest."

***

"Ah, so it is the Daidoji who have been expressing their...discontent," the Seppun nods thoughtfully, "perhaps there might be something that would encourage their...cooperation?"

Sakura's eyes narrowed in contemplation. She knew it had been a mistake to use her brand of Shadow Magic.

"I see. Is there any ..."

She was suddenly 'distracted' by Kumi's Aiguchi.

"Oh! Kumi-Kun, put that away!"

Sakura waited a beat, part of her dramatic flair, before continuing.

"This" she said pulling out her Crystal Wakizashi and handing it to Kumi, "is much more effective on the Ninube."

"Sorry" she said, turning back to the Ninube, "where was I ... oh yes, is there anything else you wished to talk to me about?"

Kenshin thought for a moment.

"I'm afraid I don't know" he finally said, "but I might be able to make a discrete inquiry."

"And you have a sense of humor," the Ninube laughs, "you'd be surprised how few manage to keep that.  No, there was nothing else, I just wanted to say farewell." And then the dark presence is gone.

"I don't suppose you'd care telling me what all this is about?" Daidoji Kumi asks, putting the crystal blade away.

***

"That would be most helpful," the Seppun smiles, "if there is anything you need..."  As you discuss, a young woman enters.

"Ah, Miya Momoko, welcome," the Seppun says, "this is Bayushi Kenshin, also a guest of the Crane and a student of the Kakita school.  Perhaps you two know each other?"

Momoko started, and bowed - she was sure she recognised the samuarai faintly - but she did not know him well.

"Seppun-sama, Bayushi-san, it is a pleasure to see you both."  She is tiny, a head and a half smaller than the average height of a woman, and so slight, her swords seem to dominate her form - they look too big for her to use properly.

She bows politley.

"That" Sakura replied softly, "is what had managed to infiltrate our Harriers."

Sakura seemed focused, very focused. There was something wrong ...

"That their job is done is disturbing, to say the least. I think it's time to go check something ..."

And with that she headed out to the Daidoji area. It was the first of many places she would need to check.

Kenshin bowed to the newcomer, the mask "Honor" shining brightly on his face. It was a pun that few besides the Scorpion could get away with.

"I've seen her about" Kenshin replied politely, "but we've never formally met."

"Please allow me to introduce my wife" he continued, indicating an elegantly attractive Shugenja, "Shinobu." Elegant indeed. There seemed to be nothing "seductive" or "sneaky" about Bayushi Shinobu.

If anything, she might be considered a touch naive.

"Very please to meet you Shinobu-san.  I do hope you are well.  Are you enjoying your time here?"

The young lady smiled, unfazed at talking to people behind masks it seemed.

"Did you ever meet a young man by the name of Bayushi Nokowara?"  Her tone is polite, casual... almost.  A strange inflection when she says the man's name hides some sort of emotion, but of what sort, it isn't clear.

Kenshin thought for a moment.

"That name does not sound familiar, but I was raised among the Crane. In fact, I have yet to 'go home' as it were. Shinobu-Chan was a Seppun before she married me, so it's not likely she would know him either."

He seemed a little embarrassed by the last statement, as if bragging was not his style.

"Shinobu-Chan? Does that name sound familiar to you?"

"It is of no consequence - please do not trouble yourself over it." She smiled but it didn't quite reach her eyes.

"Seppun-san, thankyou for introducing me to such wonderful guests." Momoko smiled again, this time her eyes wrinkled at the corners. Idly, her hand flattens her obi.

"It has been a pleasure meeting you Bayushi-san, and you too Shinobu-san. If I can be of any assiatance, please do summon me.  Even if you wish a gentle practice with the sword, Bayushi-san."

"I'm always up for sparring" Kenshin replied, "Sensei tells me that I need to work on my Spirit."

Momoko smiled. "I would be happy to refesh my own skills with a different opponent, thankyou Bayushi-san.  Do you have a preferred time?  I did notice some rather nice trees in the garden that would make an excellent area in which to 'spar'. The blossoms are not full yet, but they still look nice.  The smell alone is incredibly stimulating."

Miya looked from her host to the Bayushi, still trying to figure out why she had been summoned.

Daidoji Sakura

The Daidoji complex is quiet...well as quiet as could be expected for a military hub for the most advanced gurrilla warfare in Rokugan.  The guards wave you through after checking your weapons.

OOC:  make a perception/investigation check (notice emphasis applies)

***

Bayushi Kenshin and Miya Momoko


"Bayushi Norokawa?" Shinobu replies, "I do remember hearing that name as part of some gossip at some point, but the details escape me at the moment."

"It occurs to me," the Seppun smiles, glancing between the two students of the Kakita school, "that if the Lion are to...invite themselves prematurely to the Winter Court, and the Scorpion are to assist our gracious hosts, it would not be a bad thing for there to be an Imperial...advisor on hand to move things in the desired direction."

Miya Momoko narrowed her eyes slightly.
"Are you going to act as that particular Ambassador Seppun-sama? I am an offical hostage of the Crane Clan - my duty is to remain nearby incase the Miya Family and the Crane Clan go to war."  As rediculus as it sounds, the Miya was very sincer about this - it was her duty, and she took her duty very seriously.
"If I had a written permission from my sensei at the academy, or from the Kakita family daimyo, then I would be more than pleased to assist you Seppun-sama, but until that time..."

Miya Momoko narrowed her eyes slightly.
"Are you going to act as that particular Ambassador Seppun-sama? I am an offical hostage of the Crane Clan - my duty is to remain nearby incase the Miya Family and the Crane Clan go to war."  As rediculus as it sounds, the Miya was very sincer about this - it was her duty, and she took her duty very seriously.
"If I had a written permission from my sensei at the academy, or from the Kakita family daimyo, then I would be more than pleased to assist you Seppun-sama, but until that time..."

"And that is why you are perfect for the position, Momoko-san," Otomo Miki replies, "your place would be to remain here with the Crane and speak with the Imperial voice in the manner of how the actions of the Crane might be perceived.  Your authority will be limited, but it will give us a voice in this city during the approaching storm."

Momoko raised an eyebrow - speak with the imperial voice? She had never considered herself to be a diplomat, but if it would help her family and, more importantly, preserve the peace and goodwill of the great clans, then how could she refuse.

"I will do my best sama, but such things will be a new challenge to me. My sword will not be as sharp as a tongue might be in this situation.  I will, however, always serve the Emperor - and if you ask this of me, I shall do my duty."

Kenshin thought about this for a moment. The concept of an Imperial Hostage was foreign to him; the Crane could not attack the Miya without attacking the Emperor. It was probably best that he had not heard such a story, especially before he had found the impact of Kata as Meditation.

"The Lord of this city seems to speak with the Voice of the Crane" Kenshin interjected, trying to be helpful, "it may smooth things to speak with him of this."

"We would be happy to accompany you ..."

[Wow! Made 45 on 2 kept dice! I hope that wasn't wasted!

15:24, Today: Daidoji Sakura rolled 45 using 7d10+5, dropping the 5 lowest rolls, rerolling max with rolls of (10+1)11,6,6,9,2,9,(10+10+9)29. Per/Inv (Notice). ]

"Any help would be greatfully recieved, Bayushi-san"

"Actually" Kenshin replied, "we were planning to go there quite soon. Or perhaps you would like to chat while Shinobu-Chan 'catches up'?"

Momoko smiled, the idea of company clearly pleasing her.  She felt so out of place here, so far removed from the academia of the academy.  She nodded her accent, wondering silently who Shinobu was.

She gestured for the party to follow her as she led them towards the gardens.  The maicured horticulture was magnificent, to the Miya's eyes, an earthly reflection of the heavens and creation.

She led the party to the cherry blossom tree, pausing to look at the blooms.
"A friend once told me that you can spend a liftime looking for a perfect cherry blossom and never find one.  In this place, I think that they are all perfect."  Her voice cracks a little as she says the last few words, and she has to spend a moment to compose herself.  Then, turning, she gestures for Bayushi-san to prepare.

"Honerable Bayushi-san, please show me your stance." The smile is genuine and the tone is semi-formal, calculated to show that she is warming to her new ally and his beautiful wife.

Daidoji Sakura

"Thank the Fortunes you're here, Daidoji-san," one of the Daidoji commanders says, catching sight of Daidoji Sakura as she walks the halls--it takes you a moment to place his name as Daidoji Ren.  When you last saw him at the strategic planning session he was only a Lieutenant, below Daidoji Tokagero in the chain of command.  His promotion seems to have come rather swiftly.  "With Daidoji Ryu-sama and his primary staff gone, we're all in a bit of disarray."

[Private to Daidoji Sakura: you noticed that the Daidoji standing guard had small knives held at the ready that looked suspiciously like crystal]

Kenshin assumed his stance. His stance was technically perfect, and yet there was something missing ...

[Kenshin will learn all of the relevant information (more than 40 over TN).

Awareness/Iaijutsu 46 + Free raise. ]

Sakura was confused; she was obviously out of the loop on this one.

"What's going on?" she asked cautiously.

Miya assumed the stance, the smile fading from her lips as she focused on the 'no-mind' required to duel effectivly. Her small stature makes it appear as if her opponent was fighting a child, but her stance itself is picture perfect - one that can only be achieved through the relentless practice of the Kakita Academy.

The blossoms blow gently behind her.



[Private to Bayushi Kenshin: Learns your Iaijutsu; Insight rank; Reflexes; void; agility; awareness.

Agility 3; Awareness 3; Wounds nil; Iaijutsu 6; Insight rank 3; reflexes 4; remianing void 5, void 5.]
This message was last edited by the player at 00:30, Mon 26 Oct 2009.

This message was deleted by the player at 00:47, Mon 26 Oct 2009.

Kenshin bowed his head slightly, but retained his stance. He knew he had lost this one, but it was merely a sparring match. Besides, one never knew whom the fortunes favored.

Kenshin patiently waited.

[Private to Miya Momoko: Will choose agility as your trait. Will pass the first focus to you.

 Iaijutsu 10, Insight 2, Reflexes 4, Void 3, Agility 3, Awareness 3]

"Daidoji Ryu, Daidoji Tokagero, and some of the best harriers are gone," the suddenly promoted Daidoji replies, "I can only assume that they are doing something about the approaching Lion threat, but it's left us with a void in our leadership."

Time seemed to stop for Kenshin. Just like his Sensei at the academy had taught him, he waited for the perfect time -- as did his opponent.

Swish.

What seemed like forever in the making was now over. Kenshin drew his sword, as he had done so many times in his life. The cut was well placed -- Kenshin would not draw Imperial Blood this day ... or any other.

[Private to Miya Momoko: Besides your own reaction(s) (obviously), I'll let you figure out what he cut and so forth.]

Momoko felt the blade pass her face a fraction of a second before her own blow would have landed, and the fact that she had been beaten suprised and excited her.  A stand of her hair whisped its way to the lawn as she stood there, a slowly spreading smile on her face.

"Ah. Bayushi-san, I congratulate you on an easy victory, and thankyou for teaching me so much.  I do hope that the next time we practice, it is I who can give you the haircut."  Her tone was polite and formal, but with a hint of joviality.

That changed. What she said next was dead-pan and serious. "If I am to become a bone of contention between two or more clans, it may be that they will seek to draw me out in a duel.  I would ask, in such a situation, that you would act as my champion.  I can understand that you may not wish to, that your loyalties are streached between your sensei and your family and clan.  If I am to be a voice of the Miya, it would be good to have a man I both know and trust to act as my guardian and advisor."  She bowed very deeply, then turning, she took a single blossom from the tree with her sword.

"Please, use this blossom to time the length of your term with me, a symbol of a trust that we both shared in each other."

"The victory was not an easy one" Kenshin said with a bow, "your spirit is strong. Sensei would say that you are a good practice partner for me."

Kenshin took the proffered blossom with his blade as he continued.

"It would not be the first time I have defended the Imperial Line" he said with some modesty, "indeed that is how Shinobu-Chan and I came to be wed."

Sakura tried to absorb this.

"I see ..." she replied thoughtfully. This was odd ... the sudden promotion implied that Daidoji Ryu would not be back.

That idiot! she growled to herself.

"The fortunes rarely give us the opportunities that we think we are ready for" she said, trying to be encouraging, "inevitably the greatest heroes come from situations they were not prepared for. One Daidoji is worth fifty normal Samurai, ne?"

"Or a hundred Matsu ..." she added with a grin.

"Besides, we will not be alone. Other clans are sending aide, and do not forget who sent me."

Sakura paused a moment to let that settle in.

"The Lion, in their arrogance, will certainly underestimate Lord Kuwanan ... and the Daidoji."

[Private to Kaze no Kage: Do you need a Roll for this?]

"Yes well, let's hope Ryu-sama leaves something for us to do," he grins, caught up in Sakura's hopeful spirit, "otherwise all of our preparation will look awfully silly--almost as silly as those Matsu lion manes."

"Almost ..." Sakura replied with a grin, "but the dutiful Samurai can never look as silly as those manes."

Sakura looked around, her grin turning to a smile.

"Can we do anything to help here?"

"Not at the moment, but we will definitely be in contact."