With winter fast approaching, and the season for travel and war receding, the roads from Kyuden Asahina are unsurprisingly barren.  Few are the armies who would choose to strike at the heart of Crane lands--particularly at the home of the pacifistic Asahina family.  Even the peasants are prosperous in this land, limiting the number of would-be bandits to ronin outcastes and utter fools.

Musashi was silently pleased that he had been able to lend aid to his new comrades via the generosity of his good friend Lord Kakita Yoshihiro.  Musashi still marveled at the good fortune that had brought him to the notice of Yoshihiro, a lord who could admire martial skill whether the form utilized a blade or not.

Musashi knew that the Kami had been kind when he had succeeded in winning the informal Jiujutsu competition and thus caught the eye of an influential Kakita Lord.  Though Musashi knew that Yoshihiro appreciated the fact that Musashi never traded upon that friendship for personal gain.  Yoshihiro knew Musashi to be a simple, humble monk whose sole goal was the pursuit of enlightenment upon the path of the greater good.

Musashi checked a small sigh that had threatened to escape as he glanced around the peaceful countryside.  These roads and this land were not unknown to Musashi.  Indeed in "another lifetime" as Asahina Musashi, Kyuden Asahina had been called home though the monk Musashi would not presume to do so now.

Musashi walked purposefully beside the mount of his young charge Kakita Ukyo, Musashi's quick stride managing to keep pace fairly well despite being on foot.  Musashi had few personal belongings and traveling "light" was his personal preference in any case.  From time to time, Musashi would glance up at his charge Ukyo (usually after a brief coughing fit) to check that his "patient" was not in need of immediate medical care.

Yoshiko rode comfortably next to Daidoji Sakura. Not an accomplished rider by any means, she'd spent enough time on a horse not to expect any real discomfort after a day in the saddle. Keeping one eye on their surroundings and the other on her travelling companions she didn't mind getting drawn in the occasional conversation, as chances of being attacked seemed slim to none.

"So, who among us has some knowledge of Toshi Ranbo? I have visited there a few times, but I must confess not to be truly familiar with the city."

"Not I.  I have never been."

((OOC: Well, since I don't know much about the setting, it seemed appropriate.  :)  ))

Musashi gently shook his head as he replied in a polite tone, "I regret to say Daidoji-sama that while I have passed through Toshi Ranbo once or twice, I never remained long enough to truly become familiar with the city.

I remember a few of the streets in the city... as well as certain areas of the city that respectable persons usually avoid for good measure.  But I cannot claim to possess any extensive knowledge of the city, its inhabitants, its politics... or its intrigues."

Sachi looks to Yoshiko.  "Enough to have watched a person or two make a name for themselves, but unfortunately, not so much as to claim knowledge of the area, " he says as he looks about.

As you trot towards Toshi Ranbo at a leisurely pace, you notice that not everyone is taking their travels as slowly as yourselves.  In particular, approaching from the west, is what appears to be a samurai, in the colors of the Miya, galloping towards you as if the whole of the Shadowlands were in pursuit.

"Ah! Crane-san!" the Miya pants, "thank the Kami you are here!    Do you see them?  Are they still following me?"

Yoshiko first looks surprised and then frowns.

"Who are you talking about, Miya-san? I don't see anyone other than yourself."

Knowing not to rely on her eyes alone, the yojimbo moves her hand closer to her sword anyway.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Thu 19 Apr 2007.

Musashi raised both eyebrows in surprise as the Miya appeared.  After a deep respectful bow towards the Miya, Musashi looked around the group and specifically back in the direction the Miya had just arrived from.

As he did this, Musashi said in a soft, polite tone, "Kakita Ukyo-sama, should I backtrack along the path of Miya-sama and see if there are pursuers?"

Sachi looks at the newcomer and then over his shoulder at the emptyness behind the Miya.  "Nobody...if there were, what would we be seeing?"

"Th-they were h-horrible," the Miya Shisa stammers, looking back towards where she had come in abject terror, "terrible, silent, faceless monsters," she shudders, "they killed those bandits without a sound!  It was all I could do to run for my life!"

.oO(Monsters? And bandits? These lands should be safe... What has happened to her?)

"Be at peace, Miya-san, you are safe now."

Yoshiko tries to sound reassuring, but her tense posture gives away a measure of concern.

"It would be best if we stayed together for now, Musashi-san. Even if there is no danger to be seen, going off alone would be an unnecessary risk."

"Daidoji Yoshiko-san makes a good point.  Going off alone could be potentially dangerous.  I would only suggest such a thing if you are confident you can scout ahead without being noticed.  It wouldn't do to have you not come back in one piece."

Ukyo reached down and clapped Musashi on the shoulder.  Some may frown upon a samurai being so friendly with someone not of the samurai caste.  However, Musashi took care of him, and Ukyo felt a comraderie with him as well as a certain amount of obligation for the help he gave him.

"You have traveled much and know your skills for such things better than I.  While I wish no ill to befall you, I will trust in your judgement of your abilities."

[Private to Kaze no Kage: 00:55, Today: Kakita Ukyo rolled 27 using 4d10 with rolls of 9, 7, 6 & 5. Lore: Shadowlands.  Total of 22 with 4k3 doing Intelligence 3 + Lore:Shadowlands 1.  Looking to see if these sound like anything I may have heard of before.]
This message was last edited by the player at 04:59, Sat 21 Apr 2007.

"Miya-san, what happened exactly? And where?"

Yoshiko looks at the herald.

.oO(We have to assess the situation, but I'm not sure this samurai is capable of rational thought right now.)

"I was delivering a message to Toshi Ranbo," the Miya Shisha reports, clearly letting the habits of training provide her with distance from her trauma, "when several bandits--clearly peasants, under fed and poorly armed--attacked from the tall grass.  Generally," she says, "Shisha are encouraged to flee from peasant attackers, only drawing our weapons when our lives are endangered, but there were ten of them, and even with my blade I would have been hard pressed to survive such a skirmish.  They told me to surrender quietly and I would be delivered to my ancestors without pain--that's when the monsters appeared.  They were dressed all in black, like someone pretending to be a Scorpion 'ninja' out of the Noh or Kabuki theatre.  It was only after one of the bandits ripped off one of the masks that I saw that the creatures had no face!" she shudders, "to my shame I panicked and fled, that was roughly an hour ago."

Musashi bowed his head in respect towards Ukyo and replied in a calm, resigned tone, "Well I do have some training in the art of being unobtrusive Ukyo-sama.  However, while I feel a lone monk on foot is less likely to garner notice if moving with "discretion"... it seems from Miya-sama's account that my original idea would not be practical.

If it has indeed been nearly an hour since the attack and Miya-sama has been wisely riding in great haste since that time, I doubt I could cover sufficient distance on foot even at an accelerated pace to be of much use as a scout."

Musashi bowed respectfully towards Shiko and said in a calm tone, "Honorable Miya-sama, are you certain that the lack of face was not merely a "second mask" worn under the outer mask... perhaps meant as a "scare tactic"?

Also these "ninja-like" creatures, did they focus solely upon the bandits or were you too a target?  Do you feel that perhaps they may have been coming to the rescue of a besieged Imperial Shisha and were not actually posing a threat to you personally Miya-sama?

What sorts of weapons did these creatures use in their attack upon the bandits?

Please pardon me honorable Miya-sama for making so many inquiries of you at this time, I merely wish to better understand these potential adversaries... if indeed they are hostile adversaries."

While not particularly skilled, Daidoji Sakura seemed quite comfortable on the back of a horse. Indeed, she had spent the greater part of her early years in the Crane Clan being shuffled from O-Miai to O-Miai. It was only during the assault on Otosan Uchi that the Crane started to consider her as something more than just a pretty face.

She watched the herald carefully and then looked around after the story. Sakura glanced at the monk and her own Yojimbo before replying. If there was something that she was thinking, then it was being carefully hidden.

"I am well acquainted with this phenomenon" Sakura finally replied to the herald. "I wouldn't want to burden* you with the details, but as we also travel to Toshi Ranbo you may find it ... convenient to travel with us."

Sakura thought for a moment. She hadn't thought to bring crystal, and doubted that any of the others had ... "impressive" weaponry.

"Miya-Sama" Sakura said formally, "if you request our aid in your Imperial Duties, guarding you to Toshi Ranbo as we can, we will gladly do so. I doubt we can travel as swiftly as you  though, though we shall most certainly do our best ..."

[This is a thinly disguised way of saying "This is a Dishonorable topic. We can talk about it a bit now, but be cautious not to ask of such things in public."]

Sachi listens to the others and nods.  "An hour of hard riding here and the same back.  You would likely not find them again, unless they wanted you to.  I think that might prove worse than foolhardy if that were to happen."

It's so difficult to know what to think in a situation of this sort.  Sometimes one might almost wish he'd spent more time in court, if not for anything else but to watch and learn.  Read a fight easy...but this?  Were they intent on hindering or helping the Miya along?  And, why?

Sachi looked and studied the Miya for a few moments, taking mental notes of her general appearance and belongings.  Her clothing and diasho gave away her background and the condition of her gear, her masters afffluence, but little else was easily discernable.  Hmmm.

"What of your message?  Were you able to retain it?"

"Do not worry, Brother," Miya Shiko nods to the monk, "I understand the value of complete information.  While we Shisha are not trained in the art of observation to the same extent as the Kitsuki our powers of perception are a necessary part of our duty.  A mask is a dead thing, it does not have the same appearance as living flesh.  It is possible that my perceptions were colored by my fear," she shrugs, "but I do not believe that they were.  I must admit, that those creatures did not seem to be threatening me--though they had ample opportunity to do so--it is possible that they were coming to my aid, but I would not risk my life on that assessment.  As for their weapons, they seemed to be armed with nothing more exotic than long knives."


"Of course, Crane-san," Miya Sachi says, sounding almost offended, "only death can part a Miya from their message."


"Very well then," Miya Shiko says, taking a deep breath, "in the name of the Jade Emperor, Toturi I, I, Miya Shiko, Shisha of the Emerald Empire, do formally request your aid in the completion of my duty until such time as I arrive safely in Toshi Ranbo wo Shien Shite Reigisaho."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:23, Wed 25 Apr 2007.

Ukyo bowed as well as he could while in the saddle.  "You will have the protection of my blade until we reach your destination."

"Long knives?" Sakura asked quizically, "Not 'Ninja-to' or old Katana?" Sakura knew that the Scorpion rarely used "long knives" in their assignments -- anything "unusual" for a "ninja" was prohibited up front. The magistrates that listened to such tales must be convinced that the visage was more Sake than Shinobi if the ruse was to work properly. If these were not Scorpion the who were they? Were they Ronin? Peasants? Or ... 'something else'.

"Ninja-to?" Miya Shiko scoffs, "ninja are a peasant superstition or an excuse for lazy guards.  I apologize for my inadequate description, Crane-san, the weapons they wielded were straight blades, slightly shorter than a wakazashi and singled edged."

[Private to Daidoji Sakura: Shiko's description does indeed fit the description of a ninja-to, Shiko's description of the 'peasants' also fits the style of Daidoji 'irregulars' who are 'undercover']

"Of course, Miya-san.  I apologize for any offense, but it seemed prudent to ask."

Sachi bows to the Miya.  "I would be honored to serve and accompany you in the completion of your task."

"It is not a duty that falls to us, as we have more pressing business to attend to, but this incident should be investigated. The Crane will not stand for banditry on their lands, and certainly not for mysterious vigilantes. We will see to it that you can report what happened to a Crane magistrate at the earliest opportunity, Miya-san."

Yoshiko nods, more to herself than anyone else, and prepares to continue their voyage.

A flash of recognition flew across Sakura's face, though she concealed it quickly. The intensity in her voice, however, was not concealed.

"I'm afraid that this would be the providence of the Emerald Magistrates, Yoshiko-San. Miya-Sama*, who is this message from? And to whom is it addressed?"

This was Bad -- with a capital "b".

[* - Sakura didn't get permission to address her by her first name yet.]

Musashi bowed respectfully towards Shiko as he said in a polite tone, "Wise Miya-sama, it is an honor to aid in the fulfillment of Imperial Duty in any way available to my humble self."

Musashi nodded his head in agreement with Sakura's first remarks as he said in a grave tone, "Indeed Daidoji-sama, this matter involves the security of the Glorious Emperor's roadways as well as the potential interference of a member of the Imperial Family conducting her honorable Imperial Duty.  This is indeed a matter for the Emerald Magistrates, though no doubt the magistrates of the Crane Clan will wish to lend whatever assistance they can to facilitate the investigation carried out by the Emerald Magistrates."

As he heard Sakura's question, Musashi lightly cleared his throat and leaned over towards Sakura as he said in a soft, calm tone, <sub>"While I share your sense of curiosity wise Daidoji-sama, is it not possible that your last query may put honorable Miya-sama in a difficult position... especially now that she has graciously accepted the offer to escort & defend her?

Is it not possible that the details of the message she carries, undoubtedly in the name of the Glorious Emperor if not directly by the order of Toturi-sama, may not be for the ears of humble subjects of the Empire?"</sub>

.oO(I do feel both the local daimyo and our own Crane Magistrates would likely prefer resolving this matter without outside interference, if possible, not to mention they might feel they are being snubbed and their authority and ability put in question. Still, the decision lies with the Miya. If she chooses to take this directly to the Emerald Magistrates, that is her right.)

Yoshiko keeps her expression neutral. Although Sakura and Musashi are technically correct she would have put the Clan's interests above the letter of the law, but it wouldn't do to explain her thoughts in the presence of the herald.

"I am sorry if the questions seem inappropriate" Sakura continued to the herald after Musashi's promptings, "but the answers to these questions may be critical to the mission."

"I carry a number of messages, Daidoji-san," Miya Shiko says, "and please, as we are to be traveling companions, call me by my name.  While I may not divulge the contents of the messages," the Shisha shrugs, "their intended recipients include Doji Kasurugi, Bayushi Tenma, Yoritomo Akuto, and Akodo Dorugi."

OOC:  Doji Kasurugi is the Governor of Toshi Ranbo, the others are representatives of their respective Clans in Toshi Ranbo.

"I see ...." Indeed Sakura did see something, though what it might have been was hard to gather. Sakura turned her steed toward Toshi Ranbo before she continued.

"Officially, Shiko-Sama, the investigation will undoubtedly be very short. Those that attacked you are already dead and aiding the Son of Heaven's cause cannot be a crime, no matter how strange the methods used."

"So long as the methods used are not illegal, that is."

Sakura took in a long, slow breath and looked at Musashi for a moment. The fact that the Clan had not contacted her as "sea breeze" meant that she had to act as if she were Daidoji; which, for the moment, she was. Sakura then looked at Yoshiko, and then back to the Imperial.

Then she waited.

"This is true, Sakura-san, but nonetheless I believe the Magistrates would prefer to begin the investigation sooner rather than later. May I humbly suggest we continue our voyage with due haste?"

Yoshiko doesn't mention anything of it, but of course the inclusion of the word 'officially' hadn't escaped her notice.

"I will defer to your decision," Miya Shiko says, "however, the safe and timely delivery of these messages are of paramount importance."

"The we should go.  Standing aorund could likely invite an attack if there are still those around who wish you harm."

Almost as if in response, Ukyo's horse chomped at it's bit and danced around impatiantly as if it didn't want to be standing around here either.

"May I offer you my horse?  If we are attacked, it would allow you to escape and get to Toshi Ranbo with greater speed while we dealt with the attackers."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:34, Sun 29 Apr 2007.

[OOC: I believe that the Miya horses are supposed to be superior to all but the Unicorn steeds, but I could be wrong on that ... too blasted many campaigns.]

"Yoshiko-San" Sakura whispered to her Yojimbo, "if combat starts, you will find yourself ... 'usually endowed'."

Sakura then turned her steed in the right direction and moved up close to the Miya, knowing that her faithful Yojimbo would be right beside her.

"Thank you for the thought, but no," Miya Shiko grins ruefully, "Aogeta may not look like much, but she's gotten me out of more scrapes than I can count."

((OOC: Ah... I didn't catch that she had a horse already ^_^; ))

"My apologies.  I did not see your horse beneath you."

He leaned down to Musashi.  "I think I may be going blind..."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:11, Tue 01 May 2007.

Musashi smiled lightly at Ukyo as he said in a friendly tone, "Vision is but one of the senses we are blessed with by the kami Ukyo-sama.

However in your honorable case, I believe it is more an issue of intense focus.  When one focuses one's entire attention upon a narrow focal point, one must accept the risks of "tunnel vision"... namely that one's peripheral vision is potentially sacrificed.

Perhaps you focused so intently upon Miya-sama's dangerous plight that you missed peripheral details outside the immediate threat to Miya-sama?  But such focus is often required in certain tense situations such as duels.  Thankfully our group is blessed with both those who possess intense focus and those who are more adept at observing the wider overall picture."

With only a slightly sardonic grin, "If memory serves, Ukyo-san has been blessed with such focus for many years now."

Ukyo frowned at the memory of Sachi besting him at the dojo due to that focus.  He turned to Sachi, "Yes.  I vowed to not make that mistake against you again.  I look forward to the time when I may show you that I am ready for your tricks."

He straightened back on his horse as a harsh cough came over him that lasted several seconds.

"Indeed.  I look forward to a demonstration of your honed skills as well."  Sachi bows to Ukyo, but comes up rather quickly with a lood of mild concern on his face as Ukyo coughs.

I hope he lasts that long...

Travel through the lands of the Crane are relatively uneventful, save for the arrival of Miya Shiko.  However, after the Shisha joined you, you notice a marked increase in the number of people watching you intently as you travel past.

"In a couple of hours," the Shisha says conversationally, "we'll be reaching a crossroads, one leads through Lion lands, and offers a more direct route to Toshi Ranbo, the other leads through Imperial lands, but is somewhat more lengthy.  If I were traveling alone," Miya Shiko shrugs, "I'd just go through Lion lands, but since I'm with you..." she trails off, letting you come to your own conclusions.

"I assume that you're delivery is to be made as quickly as possible.  Perhaps we should go ahead and cut through the Lion lands."

"I concur" Sakura replied to the duelist's urging. She said nothing else, though she did glance around.

"The Lion might be inclined to view our unannounced presence in an unfavourable light, but that shouldn't be an insurmountable problem. At worst they might cause us some inconvenience, and for Miya-san they won't dare to take it that far."

Yoshiko shrugs inelegantly.

"I suggest we travel fast while we can, and worry about problems only if they pose themselves."

"Then it is decided!" Miya Shiko grins cheerfully, "through Lion lands!  And may nothing less than Fu Leng himself attempt to stop us!"

Travel to the Lion border remains uneventful for the first day, but none of you can escape the feeling of being watched.

OOC:  roll Investigation/Perception TN 20 (TN 15 if you have the Notice Emphasis)

OOC: I made it exactly! Woohoo!

You rolled 20 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max ((2,(10+3)13,7)).

OOC:
01:21, Today: Musashi rolled 26 using 4d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max. Perception/Investigation.

Looks like Musashi succeeded as well.  ;)

OOC:
07:46, Today: Daidoji Sachi rolled 14 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 3,9,5. Investigation/Perception TN 20.

Sachi seems to be oblivious to anything going on.

Yoshiko's neck itches, the feeling of unseen eyes on the group making her nervous.  Traveling at speed helps since it makes it harder for anyone observing them to lay an ambush or prepare other nasty surprises, but as long as the feeling persists she has to fight the urge to press for even more haste.

OoC:Daidoji Yoshiko rolled 28 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max. Investigation/Perception. Yay exploding die!

You all hear the sharp twanging of bowstrings nearby, but there is no answering hail of arrows.  To the left and to the right you can see peasants with bows (and cut bowstrings) falling like sheaves of wheat.  [Private to Daidoji Sakura; Daidoji Yoshiko; Musashi; Kakita Ukyo: you see human shaped shadows slipping into the underbrush]
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:47, Sat 19 May 2007.

((OOC: Sorry for the late post... the weeks' been hell!  Also, L5R uses exploding dice, right?  I couldn;t find mention of it int he book))

20:27, Today: Kakita Ukyo rolled 22 using 2d10, rerolling max with rolls of (10+6)16,6.  (16 if no exploding dice)

PM[Private to Kaze no Kage: Can we tell from here if the peasants are Daidoji Irregulars?]

Yoshiko draws he sword and immediately guides her horse to the flank of the group, forcing Sakura towards the center.

"Ambush! Get away, all speed!"

She itches to urge her horse to a full gallop, but waits for the others to react.

With a hearty cough, Ukyo leaned over and held a hand out to Musashi to help vault him up on the back of the horse.

For some reason Sakura does not share her Yojimbo`s assessment of the danger. Sakura was always an intuitive girl, something that helped her tremendously in most cases but did tend to get her in trouble, but this was not a case of intuition.

It was a case of curiosity.

Sakura halted her steed and dismounted, something that would probably annoy her Yojimbo to no end.

"You guys go ahead" she said with an unusual hint of confidence, "I need to check something out."

With a stride that was a bit to casual for the situation, Sakura headed toward the bushes to examine the fresh corpses.

[Yes, I know that touching these corpses are dishonorable. Sakura doesn't care -- she'll just do a purification ritual when she's done and forget that it ever happened ....]
[Private to Daidoji Yoshiko; Kaze no Kage: Sakura wants to examine the corpses for any indications that these were Daidoji Irregulars.]

Yoshiko reins her horse in so brusquely it nearly topples and dismounts to hurry over to Sakura.

"Which part of 'get away' is too complicated for you to understand, Sakura-san? We could have returned here after making sure the area was safe," she says in a clipped tone of voice, palpably radiating anger.

Whatever Sakura was feeling was not being shown. Her response was level and confident, though with Sakura it was always difficult to determine if the confidence was real.

"The area is safe" Sakura replied. "As I said earlier, I am quite familiar with this phenomenon. If we are to keep Miya-Sama safe, we need more information and the information is over there."

"I hope ..."

OOC:  anyone inspecting the corpses or checking the area make a Perception/Investigation (Notice) check

Assuming my Yojimbo lets me by ...
13:20, Today: Daidoji Sakura rolled 14 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max with rolls of 6,8,4. Investigation/Perception(notice).

Mental note: I really need to up Sakura`s Investigation & Perception since that`s her biggest "shtick" ...

07:44, Today: Kakita Ukyo rolled 6 using 2d10, rerolling max. Investigation/Perception.

OOC: Whadda ya want? I'm on a horse.  :)

Musashi lightly patted Ukyo's shoulder as he said in a soft grateful tone, "I thank you Ukyo-sama for your concern for me.  However I believe Daidoji-sama may be correct... I feel the immediate danger may be over for now.

This incident reminds me of the recounting of Miya-sama's earlier encounter... when bandits about to attack Miya-sama were swiftly dealt with.

While I am concerned about the fact that this is the 2nd attack upon an Imperial Herald, I agree with Daidoji-sama that we need to investigate this incident further to better understand the threat posed against Miya-sama."

Musashi bowed his head towards Ukyo and then moved over to where the corpses were and examined the immediate area as well as the general condition of the bodies (note: he does not touch the bodies).

OOC: 17:55, Today: Musashi rolled 25 using 4d10+3, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max. Perception/Investigation.

Yoshiko sighs but gives in. Her association with Sakura has made her familiar enough with the shugenja's ways to know she's not going to change her mind, even if the yojimbo continues to hope.

"Pray the Fortunes that one day you'll allow me to be the final arbiter when it comes to your safety, Sakura-san, as that is my duty."

She joins the others who have started looking over the site of the ambush, as much to make sure no hidden dangers linger as to find information about what happened. Too loyal to point this out to the others, Yoshiro does reflect on Sakura's remark about being familiar with the phenomenon.

.oO(What need to look for information, if you already know? And why not share what you know with me?)

Daidoji Yoshiko rolled 21 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max. Perception/Investigation.

As much as she protested earlier, Sakura did stay close to Yoshiko -- perhaps it was to avoid dishonoring her Yojimbo? -- occasionally whispering directions or pointing something out.

[Private to Daidoji Yoshiko: "We need to find out if these are Daidoji", Sakura whispered to Yoshiko, keeping her mouth covered, "something that only you and I can do*. If it is, then we may need to find out what is so important that they are after Miya-Sama ...."

Sakura left the implications hanging in the air ...

OOC: Can Sachi figure it out as well ...?]

Ukyo calmed as he watched Musashi stalk through the tall grass to meet up with Sakura.  He dismounted his horse and stayed close to Shiko, just in case it was a ruse.  He fought better on foot, but for now he held the reins in his left hand.

Sachi lingers behind after the others to watch the road for a few moments before turning and following them into the grass towards the bodies.  As he arrives, he slows to a standstill and looks around at the scene.

Unfortunately, Sachi seems to be more attuned to any potential fight instead of the scene and instead twitches and turns at the sound of a twig snapping.

OOC: Daidoji Sachi rolled 7 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max with rolls of 1,3,4. Perception/Investigation.

There is little enough to see when you go over to investigate, the corpses of dead eta armed with nothing more dangerous than hoes--and hankyu with cut bow strings.
[Private to Musashi; Daidoji Yoshiko: in the grass you can see oddly shaped blackened spots in the grass, as if someone had burned footprints into the ground]
[Private to Daidoji Sakura; Daidoji Yoshiko: hidden on the inside of the wrist of all of the eta armed with hankyu are tattoos of a striking bird of prey--the mark of the Daidoji Harriers]

Yoshiko points out a number of peculiar burnt spots on the ground for the benefit of those who missed them.

"These are... unusual."

[Private to Daidoji Sakura; Kaze no Kage: I have to admit I'm not entirely sure just how big a secret the existence of the Harriers is supposed to be to other Crane samurai. There are some internal contradictions about that in L5R canon. Anyway, can I assume from the private line that both Yoshiko and Sakura are able to recognize the tattoos for what they are?]

"It seems that Shiko-Sama has some powerful allies" Sakura said to Ukyo. "Why don't you all go ahead while I tend to the bodies. Yoshiko and I will catch up to you as soon as we can."

Not waiting on a response, Sakura grabbed one of the corpses and started dragging it into a clearing -- something that would make the average Rokugani Samurai retch with disgust*.

"I'll have some cleansing to do when this is all over ... you don't want to wait for me."

Daidoji Sakura began singing a low, mournful tune.

[Private to Daidoji Yoshiko: OOC -- Sakura is going to burn the bodies to make sure no one else figures out who they are. She is not asking you to touch them ...]

Musashi nodded his head in agreement with Yoshiko's remarks as he too had noticed the oddity that Yoshiko was referring to.

Musashi moved closer to the blackened spots of grass and crouched down on his haunches to get a closer look as he said, "Indeed Daidoji Yoshiko-sama, this "burnt grass" seems to almost be in the form of a footprint.  But what sort of creature or magic would cause this sort of effect?  Could these "burnt footprints" be related to the disappearing nature of Miya-sama's apparent "guardians"?

Daidoji Sakura-sama, are you familiar with any type of magic that would create this sort of impression... some sort of effect related to either rapid transit and/or invisibility?"

OOC: Is there anything that could be rolled that would aid in analysis of the burnt grass "footprints"?

Yoshiko is feeling ill at ease watching Sakura and is unwilling to lend a hand, but naturally she refuses to move away from her charge even so.


"Who knows? However, I doubt these prints are the result of some strange ability of an equally strange creature: if they were, we should likely be able to track them all the way to whatever made them."

[OOC: I answered yesterday, but for some reason it disappeared ...]
Sakura looked at the footprints, something that had apparently eluded her earlier observations. Perhaps they were too ... "obvious"? Apparently finding a good location, she dropped the body she was carrying and started to move a second one.

"Yes." she answered the monk. Sakura's reply was a bit curt, though not rude per-se. It almost said "how much do you really want to know, honorable monk-san?".

"Not necessarily, Yoshiko-Kun" Sakura replied, dropping the second body. "there are several magics that allow one to transport oneself without touching the ground."

The second body thumped as it dropped on the first and Sakura moved to gather a third. Sakura stood and took a deep breath. She stared at Musashi for a moment.

"Monk-San" she asked quietly, "do you happen to have some pure crystal handy?"

It was the one thing that Sakura forgot to bring.

[Private to Kaze no Kage: The "burnt footprints" would be identical for the spell that Sakura could (in theory, since she doesn't know it yet) cast and the "shadow creatures", ne? E.G. there's no way to tell if these are Scorpion or Shadow just from the footprints, right?]

As Musashi studied the burnt footprints more closely, he looked up briefly from his crouch and gently shook his head as he said with a note of regret, "I am afraid that I do not carry any crystal on my person.  In fact it is a very rare occasion that I have seen much less held pure crystal in person.  I am sorry Daidoji-sama."

Having answered the question posed to him, Musashi returned his attention back to the burnt grass footsteps as he tried to discern more about them.

How odd... it seems that Daidoji Sakura-sama knows more about this incident than she is willing to freely share.  It begs two questions: first, why does she withhold information... and second, how has she come into possession of her prior knowledge in the first place?

Perhaps this is a "Daidoji thing" as my honorable late father would have said.  He always warned my brother and I to stay clear of Daidoji "doings & dealings" for they were not always the best influence for a young, honorable Crane samurai.

But as a Monk now, I am perhaps more "immune" to the dangers than I was when I was Asahina.

OOC: 01:47, Today: Musashi rolled 21 using 4d10+3, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max. Perception/Investigation.

"That's alright" Sakura said politely, "We shall probably not need it."

Probably.

[I guess we can just color Sakura "Clueless". ;{

15:08, Today: Daidoji Sakura rolled 21 using 7d10, dropping the 4 lowest rolls, rerolling max with rolls of 8,7,5,4,5,2,6. Int/Lore:Nothing.
15:08, Today: Daidoji Sakura rolled 14 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max with rolls of 9,5,5. Perception/Investigation TN15. ]

Ukyo visibly blanched when he saw Sakura grab hold of the body and begin to drag it away.  Such a beautiful young woman.  Why does she disgrace herself in such a manner?  Perhaps this is why she has not been married yet.

Ukyo remounted his horse.  "You are correct Daidoji-san.  Perhaps it would be best if we leave you to your... task."

((Hearing them speak of the burnt footprints)):
10:52, Today: Kakita Ukyo rolled 23 using 4d10, keeping the 3 highest rolls, rerolling max with rolls of 5,7,(10+1)11,1. Lore: Shadowlands.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:53, Fri 01 June 2007.

Further search reveals nothing else of any particular significance.  The corpses remain corpses, though how and why they would be carrying weapons more suited to battle than the field remains unknown.
[Private to Musashi: upon closer investigation of the "burnt" footprints, you can see that there was no fire that could have done this.  The blackened grass does not have the smell or texture of ash--it has no smell at all and crumbles to fine powder at the touch.]
[Private to Kakita Ukyo: you have heard stories of oni so powerful that the earth itself cannot bear their touch and anything they come into contact with bursts into flame]
[Private to Daidoji Sakura: you have heard of this phenomenon occuring to shinobi who posess extremely powerful shadow brands when those brands are exposed to light]

Sakura looked at Sachi for a moment, though why she did so was difficult to tell. It seemed that she was trying to look into his soul, but what was she looking for? Finally she looked back to the lone monk of the group.

"Musashi-San" Sakura said tenderly, "once I'm done moving the bodies I will immediately begin the cleansing ritual. As part of the ritual, I must bathe in pure water ..."

In other words, "nudity will be involved. Those who wish to keep their honor in tact should be far away ... as should their charges."

Daidoji Sakura then went back to moving the bodies.

[and, no, I don't plan on getting graphic ...]

Musashi seemed rather interested in his study of the burnt footprints and takes a moment to register that Sakura is speaking to him once more.

Rising from his crouch, Musashi bowed his head towards Sakura and said in a calm tone, "Ahh Water, it is perhaps the element I feel the closest bond to.  Of course Daidoji-sama, I have no wish to interfere with your cleansing ritual in any way.

Besides... I believe I am finished with my observations of this scene.  There are questions that these burnt footprints raise to which I currently do not have answers... but perhaps things will become clearer upon reflection."

Musashi glanced at the bodies from where he stood and then back at Sakura with an eyebrow raised in silent question.  But refraining from putting his thoughts into words, Musashi turned away and followed Ukyo as his charge trotted away from the scene.

I was unaware that any but perhaps the Kuni would risk "contamination" through the touching of dead bodies.  Daidoji Sakura... she is indeed a puzzle, perhaps one even greater than the mysteries surrounding Miya Shiko.

Sakura finished putting the bodies into a large mound and looked around for a moment. Finding a discrete place, she performed one of the several cleansing rituals that she knew for just such an occasion. The ritual involved copious amounts of hot water, for which she summoned "geyser water" for the occasion.

With all "prying eyes" and ears now safely away, she approached the bodies more gingerly. Sakura took several deep, purifying breaths before talking to Yoshiko in a low tone.

"I don`t know what Shiko-Sama carries that is so important to the Crane clan, but we can`t risk anyone else finding out that these are Harriers. There is nothing that we can do about the first set, but these can be taken care of properly."

"Had the others not been so disturbed -- and therefore distracted -- by me touching dead flesh they would have undoubtedly asked why I insisted on giving these `bandits` an honorable funeral rather then leaving them for scavengers to devour."

Sakura did not wait for a reply. She immediately began singing to the Kami, summoning a ball of pure fire that she used to burn the remains. Unanswered questions lingered in the air with scent of burning flesh ...

[I`m under the impression that we don`t need to roll for non-stressed spells like this. Is that correct, or do you need me to roll?]

The Fire Kami quickly consume the corpses, leaving behind only ash and an oily black column of smoke that can be seen for miles in the clear air.  No further sign of strange peasants armed like samurai or bizzare black clad figures whoo defend Imperial Shisha appears to be present.

"Perhaps they think you feel it's better to burn them, even if they're not samurai and don't fall under the Imperial Edict," Yoshiko shrugs.

"And you are a shugenja, Sakura-san. This gives you a measure of authority regarding spiritual matters. Even if they find your behaviour odd, I doubt anyone would voice their questions publicly. Besides, the Harriers' existence is at most a rumour for anyone not of the Crane, and for most of our Clan as well. That tattoo likely means nothing to our companions. Still, I agree it'd be better not to take any chances."

The yojimbo stares at the pyre with a frown, and finally adds before they rejoin the others: "The bigger issue is what we are to do about this situation. If Miya Shiko, or something she carries with her, is so important to the Crane, should we get involved or not?"

"That`s something that I intend to find out" Sakura replied quietly. Sakura took two steps, enough to give her a modicum of privacy without alarming her yojimbo, and quietly beseached the air kami to carry a whispered message* across Rokugan.

"Master ..."

[Whispering Winds IIRC. Used in this case to create a two way connection with her Scorpion Chunin (controller) -- that is she`s waiting for a reply to be sent in the same manner. If she doesn`t get one she`ll have to try again later ...][Private to Kaze no Kage: Oh, Sakura`s code-name is "Sea Breeze". I didn`t choose one for the Chunin in this timeline, but it was "Shadow Hawk" before the Coup and/or Clanwar.]

Sakura opened her eyes and looked at her Yojimbo. It was a "something`s up" look. This would be tricky at best ...

"Let`s catch up now."

There really was no point in "going it alone", not when there was help so near. Sakura mounted her steed and made her way towards the rest of the party. Sakura wasn`t particularly suited for battle, even though her reputation made it seem otherwise. Then again, they were up against Tainted creatures at the assault on Otosan Uchi ...

[Private to Kaze no Kage: Jade Strike won`t work on Shadow creatures, right? Just Shadowlands?]
After they caught up, Sakura looked at the rest of the assembled Crane.

"We need to destroy these creatures if we see them again" she finally revealed. "Well, actually I need to destroy them, and I will do so or die trying. I suspect, however, that you will wish to aide me."

"There are at least two types of magic that can have this effect, Musashi-San" she told the monk, "one of them is tantamount to Maho and the users must be destroyed on sight. Unfortunately it is difficult to tell the difference, however I have finally received my answer."

There were a couple things left unsaid. Certainly the Eta that attacked were dishonorable, but if the Evil were trying to destroy them then what of the messages that the Miya carried? And what should be done about it?

"You know you can depend on me being by your side always, Daidoji Sakura-san," Yoshiko replies simply.

"There will be no death in your near future, not if I have it my way."

After Sakura and her yojimbo rejoined the group, Ukyo looks back at her, stifling a cough.

"So, did you find what you were looking for?"

Sakura nodded wordlessly. There was no point in going into detail, especially since such details would dishonor the young Samurai. Hopefully promised aide from the Scorpion would show up quickly, but then there was still the unanswered question of what to do about the Miya and her message.

Whatever happened, the other -- more honorable -- Crane would need to be insulated from dishonor.

[Other than "answering questions", I don`t really have anything for Sakura to do until after the group camps.]

After this latest disturbing incident, you travel quickly to make up lost time.  Quickly enough, in fact, that Lady Sun is barely beginning to set as you approach the Lion Clan border.

"As much as I would like to leave Crane Lands behind us, no offense intended," Miya Shiko says, reigning her horse in, "I have some apprehension about approaching a Lion border outpost under less than full daylight.  I will defer to your judgment, however," she shrugs, "as I'm not one to turn away good advice."

"Then we should weigh the risks of spending another night on the road against those of confronting the Lion at a time they might be inclined to see things in a bad light," Yoshiko shrugs. The yojimbo is not inclined to decide either way, as she is torn between her duty to her Clan - which would be better served by stalling the Miya's progress  - and that to her charge - which would have her avoid unnecessary risks.

Ooops! Sorry, thought I had posted here!
Sakura looked around and thought for a second.

"I suggest we stop here for the night. The risks of the Lion `accidentally` killing a few Crane approaching at night is too great a risk."

Besides which it would give Sakura time to think.

You settle down for the night with little fuss and while you are all gathered around the campfire, Miya Shiko says, "Alright, now that we have some time, would someone mind telling me what is going on?"

"Your guess is as good as mine Miya-san," he said as he shifted his eyes momentarily toward Sakura.  "It seems to me that whatever it is you carry, someone or something doesn't want it, or you, to reach its destination."

Ukyo gave a hearty cough.  Thinking a moment about what he just said, he shifted his sword, which was propped up on his right side, back over to his left side in case it needed to be used.

Sakura looked at the herald for a long moment. There was something deep, yet untelling, in her eyes.

"I would tell you, Shiko-Sama" she finally replied, "but I do not wish the Seppuku of an Imperial Herald on my conscience."

Sadly, this gave her an idea ...

Hearing her charge's reply, Yoshiko closes her eyes in despair.

.oO(What is she thinking... Does she absolutely have to provoke the Miya? What good will that accomplish?)

Ukyo raied an eyebrow in curiosity.  She is full of surprises that one...

Ukyo knew from his own knowledge of the possiblity of forces fromt he Shadowlands being involved, but Sakura seemed to have even more information.  It was clever of her to not reveal anything.  She would save face by having the Miya request whatever information she had, yet it was still a bold move to suggest such dire consequences.

"Well then," Shiko grins, "as I would much prefer not to commit seppuku, I'll not ask.  Though I expect answers will be forthcoming, if for no other reason then I doubt our enemies will stop their bizzare behavior any time soon."

The night passes without incident and all too soon you are on your way towards the Lion border with far too many unanswered questions and answers that make no sense.

The border between Lion and Crane lands is a fluid one, with only a few isolated outposts on the roads to mark it.  This particular border crossing is little more than a hastily constructed hut with only a few ashigaru to maintain it.

"In the name of the Lion!" an unmounted ashigaru shouts, placing himself firmly in the middle of the road, his spear ready, but not threatening...yet, "identify yourselves!"

Sakura held her ground -- and her tounge. This was, after all, an Imperial party now, so the sole Imperial present should speak. Or one of the Courtiers, perhaps ...

What she did do, however, was stare. Lion or not, they were still Ashigaru ...

.oO(Brave, to make that challenge alone and outnumbered. But then, the Lion never lacked in courage - or they made up for it in foolishness.)

Yoshiko refrains from reaching for her sword, not wanting to provoke hostilities. She looks around in case more ashigaru should be observing them from hiding.

[Private to GM: Not sure if it was necessary, but I went ahead and rolled to try and find other Lion ashigaru in hiding.
Daidoji Yoshiko rolled 13 using 4d10, dropping the 2 lowest rolls, rerolling max. Perception/Battle to detect ambush.]

"I am Miya Shiko," the Herald declares, bringing her mount to the fore, "traveling under the auspices of the Jade Emperor, Toturi I, and these are samurai sworn to my protection.  Is it your intent to bar us passage through the Emperor's lands under Lion stewardship?"[Private to Daidoji Yoshiko: you detect no others in hiding, though there are certainly more soldiers in the hut]
This message was last edited by the player at 10:14, Sun 08 July 2007.

"No, Sama," a voice calls from within the hut, "we would never dream of denying the Emperor's Herald's passage," from within the hut emerges a kimono clad Lion, armed only with his daisho sheathed at his side, "I am Ikoma Kuromaru, at your service," he bows, "travel through the lands stewarded by the Lion is often fraught with unexpected dangers, Miya-sama, and these loyal Ashigaru simply intend to warn you of them.  If you so desire, I would be most honored to act as a guide through these lands, such that you will avoid surprises."

.oO(And avoid doing something that might surprize the Lion as well, no doubt.)

Yoshiko has her own ideas about the Lion's motivations.

Sakura cocked her head, listening to the Lion`s words.

"A kind offer" Sakura finally said, "but we couldn`t possibly allow a Bushi of your stature to be drawn away from the borders. That would cause ... many problems in the courts."

Innuendo are not words, Sakura-Chan her Uncle had once told her, they are innuendo. How do you think the Scorpion manages to survive in the courts?

"No trouble at all, Sama," the Ikoma smiles, "it is my duty to ensure that the honored Shisha is untroubled during her tenure in our lands."

"Thank you for your kind offer," Shiko smiles, "but I believe we will be able to find our own way."

"Very well then," Kuromaru shrugs, "I would suggest very strongly to sticking to the main roads and not taking any detours regardless of what may seem like a good idea at the time."

With those words ringing in your ears you take your leave of the small border outpost and continue your journey to Toshi Ranbo.

"Strange, that a Lion would so openly imply there are dangers to travellers through their lands," Yoshiko remarks.

"It is likely just a way to keep us from interfering in Clan issues, but I would not have expected this kind of argument."

"It is strange," Miya Shiko says thoughtfully, "investigation will have to wait, however, though we should definitely report it as soon as possible."

"Hopefully" Sakura replied thoughtfully, "That is simply his not-so-subtle way of warning the Crane -- which would be all but you Shiko-Sama -- not to engage in any spying under the pretense of protecting an Imperial messenger."

"Unfortunately I suspect that this is *not* what we were being warned against ..."

Sakura looked around for several moments, trying to take things in for a bit. There was still one matter on her mind, the matter of dealing with messages that should not be delivered while still protecting the honorable of the Crane clan. She had been debating the issue for several days and only one answer came to her.

But she couldn't escape the feeling that the answer she came to was the wrong one ...

"How so, Sakura-san?"

"Just a feeling" Sakura replied, still examining her surroundings "The Ikoma are not known for their Bushi."

Sakura looked around, the same subject on her mind that had been there for the last few days -- what to do about the messages that the Enemy wanted delivered "at all costs". Sakura was supposed to be good at subtlety, that's what she staked her reputation on. Surely there was a subtle solution to this quandry ...

"Yet their bravery remains unquestioned," the Imperial Herald grins, "nevertheless, we ought to press onward.  I will admit, the Ikoma's words piqued my curiosity, and taking a direct route to Toshi Ranbo would afford us an opportunity to potentially catch sight of things the Lion might wish to stay hidden.  However, remaining to the Emperor's roads will likely be an equally swift and safer path..." the Miya shrugs.  These were, after all, the Crane who had chosen expidency over safety, whether they would make the same choice when all that was at stake was curiosity remained to be seen.

"No one questions a Scorpion's bravery either" Sakura replied courteously. She looked around for another moment ... there were always possibilities.

"The direct route then?" she continued with a smirk. She drew out two spell scrolls and looked around at her clan mates. "Who will lead then?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:21, Wed 05 Sept 2007.

"The direct path seems to bring with it the most benefit, excepting that of our safety, of course," Kenji says.  "Besides, as your route, Miya-sama, seems to have been compromised, perhaps an unorthodox travel shall throw whoever off your trail."

Kenji looks in he direction of their destination, the obsidian scorpion beads of his mask dancing in a light wind.  His eyes sem distracted for a moment, troubled by some thought, but passes quickly.  He turns back around.

"I volunteer to lead, if that is suitable, Daidoji-sama," he says, bowing to Sakura.

"That seems to be sound advice, Bayushi-san," Miya Shiko shrugs, "lead on then, and may the Fortunes guide our path."

The path across the Lion plains begins uneventfully enough.  No mysterious peasants drawing weapons, no black clad creatures leaping out of the shadows, and, strangely enough, no random Lion patrols.  Almost as if the Lion have stripped this area of their forces.

OOC:  make a Perception/Investigation (notice) check TN 15 -- Bayushi Kenji may make two and keep the higher one

Kenji keeps a wary eye, casting about for any signs of danger, his hand resting upon the hilt of his katana.


[Private to Kaze no Kage: Today: Bayushi Kenji rolled 23 using 3d10.  :)  That's the one I'm keeping.]

Sakura walked along, humming to herself. If she was paying attention to anything, there was no sign of it ...

[No, she's not acting clueless, she is ...

15:11, Today: Daidoji Sakura rolled 9 using 3d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max with rolls of 6,3,3. Perception/Investigation. ]

There appears to be little of note, endless fields of grass interspersed with harvested fields of grain, but no sign of the Emperor's Right Hand anywhere in sight.

"How bizzare," Miya Shiko comments, "not even the peasants appear to be present.  This is most definitely not normal."

OOC:  make an awareness/investigation check add 10 to your roll if you have the interrogation emphasis, no TN
[Private to Bayushi Kenji: there have definitely been several large troop movements here within the last week or so; any more information will require a Perception/Battle check TN 15]

"Less bizarre than ominous, I'm afraid, Miya-sama," Kenji says, "These tracks here and here indicate a movemnt of a large group of men, troops judging by their ordered formation."  Delivering this news, his face creases in thoughtful alarm.

OOC:
Awareness/Perception-18

[Private to Kaze no Kage: I rolled a 31 on my Perception/Battle.  I forgot to check to box to reroll 10's, so if the exploding 10 doesn't count, I got a 25.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:57, Sun 30 Sept 2007.

Sakura nodded to her companion, but said nothing aloud. There was trouble in the air, that was something that she knew. It was too bad that she had nothing to go on other than a feeling ...
[17:29, Today: Daidoji Sakura rolled 23 using 5d10, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling max. Awareness + Investigation.]

"Perhaps we ought to swing west in order to avoid any trouble then?" Miya Shiko suggests, "though if we are stopped while continuing on, we can always claim ignorance of the territory and ask for a guide back to the main road."

[Private to Bayushi Kenji: from the tracks, the troop movements are more coordinated than typical battlefield maneuvers and seem to indicate several formations moving to join a larger force
Miya Shiko is definitely hiding something]
[Private to Daidoji Sakura: Miya Shiko knows far more than she's letting on and seems to be less nervous than seems warranted for the situation]

"We may as well continue on," Kenji says, "I doubt we'll meet anyone out here; maybe some peasants, but I would doubt an armed force, considering these tracks."  He looks at Shiko for a moment, then turns abruptly and begins walking in the direction of their destination.

Sakura looked around her once again before looking forward towards her destination.

The first step to surviving a trap is being aware that it is a trap.

There was a slight delay before she followed her companions.

Your trek deep into Lion territory, up until this point, has been relatively uneventful.  The random patrols which one might expect from the most militarily inclined Clan in the Empire seem to be non-existent--a fact that has made everyone rather nervous.  Perhaps it is this heightened sense of awareness that allowed you to spot the five Lion ashigaru well before they caught sight of you.

Immediately crouching into whatever cover there is, Kenji motions for the others to do the same.  He draws his katana, and begins creeping forward, trying to discern the intentions of the ashigaru.

[Private to Kaze no Kage: Agility/Sneaking(Ambush)-29]

"Bayushi-san... do you truly believe that such steps are necessary?  Skulking around like a shinobi?  Besides," Ukyo coughed hard into his hand, "My health won't let me hide very well."

Ukyo gave a quick glance to the others to see how they were reacting.  Fully expecting the messenger would not be running off to hide.

"Shinobi?" Kenji scoffs, "Don't tell me you believe rumors of such men, Kakita-san?  They exist only in children's tales.  I do, though, believe in being prepared for possibilities."  He remains stationary, awaiting the reactions of the others, but keeps his weapon drawn.

"I do believe Ukyo-San has a point" Sakura replied, obviously focused on the Ashigaru.

"Besides which I am interested in questioning these peasants. The Lion armies are missing, undoubtedly because they are getting ready to attack somewhere. The only question is where."

"Of course" Sakura continued, now directing her attention to the Imperial, "I am not telling you anything you don't already know ..."

"The Lion are always massing to attack someone," Miya Shiko shrugs, dismounting her horse--though whether to meet the ashigaru from an unthreatening position or to hide is unclear, "it's in their nature.  That doesn't mean that we shouldn't proceed with caution, however."

Irregardless of your conversation, the Lion soldiers continue to be oblivious to your presence, though their patrol sweep is approaching closer.

OOC:  stupid ashigaru and their low perception :-P

"Well, I would prefer to not kill the Lion in their own lands.  If there is something you can do to defuse the approaching situation, Miya-sama, I, as well as the approaching ashigaru, would appreciate it," Kenji says, keeping one eye on the patrol.

"Very well," Shiko shrugs, and then calls out to the Lion on horseback, LION-SAN!  I AM MIYA SHIKO OF THE IMPERIAL SHISA!  COULD YOU PLEASE DIRECT ME TO THE NEAREST ROAD TO TOSHI RANBO?!"

Faced with such an obvious invasion of their territory, the Lion Ashigaru turn and begin to ride hard in your direction.

"Was that deffusing enough, Bayushi-san?" Miya Shiko asks archly.

OOC:  you really could have hid and waited for them to ride past ^_^;;;

"Not quite what I had in mind," Kenji mutters, maintaining his position until the ashigaru get closer.

Sakura looked at the Shisha, but said nothing. In spite of her reputation, Sakura was no War Shugenja. Instead of speaking she quietly pulled a scroll out of her pouch and softly began to sing. A moment later she replaced the scroll and retrieved a nice, metal edged, court fan from her belt.

Still singing softly, she awaited the arrival of the Lion. The fan would have two uses -- first diplomacy, but if that failed ...

[Wisdom of the Kami; "War Fan" skill.]

"Bayushi-san, it may be prudent to sheathe your katana.  That could be seen as an open threat."

Ukyo stifled another harsh cough.  He sat tall in his saddle though, making himself look as confident as possible.  While he didn't believe these peasants would blatantly attack poeple above their station, there was no need to tempt the rabble.

"Perhaps you are right, Kakita-sama," Bayushi replies, sheathing his katana.  He does not release the hilt, however, and moves to interpose himself between the Imperial envoy and the approaching ashigaru.

"Miya-sama," one of the ashigaru bows, awkwardly, from horseback, "this is an unsecured area, please allow us to escort you and your...allies," the Lion soldier says finally, looking distrustfully at the rest of the group, "to the road where you will be safer."

"Allow me to consult with my defenders first, Lion-san," Miya Shiko nods, "I will have an answer for you shortly."

"Well now," the Miya shrugs, "do we allow them to escort us to the road or do we insist on pressing on?"

"As far as we've come" said Shiko, taking the appropriate courtly tone, "it would take too long to return to the road now. We should press on."

"The Lion are far too skilled to allow any harm to come to an Imperial messenger while under their jurisdiction, even if the area is 'unpatrolled' ..."

 And all along the road, the soft-voiced Ronin known as Kedo (insofarasmuch as he is known by anyone for anything, being a lowly wave-man) has walked in companionable silence, stilling when the party stops, moving when it chooses to resume travel - during the earlier excitement he moved to a side and lay his hands upon the seemingly unworn hilt of the katana at his hip, but never drew more than a fingernails span of steel from its wooden home - and that only to loosen it against need.

 At the gate too, he was as silent and watchful as he has been most every morning of the trek - where he has spent no small amount of time in contemplation or meditation when the opportunity has allowed, seeking some measure of insight in the fall of rain on barren stone or the steam rising from stirring horses in the morning chill.

 And now again he reacts in his accustomed, understated fashion by moving unhurriedly forwards to place himself a little to the side, a little back from Bayushi Kenji on his offhand side, allowing that honourable Clan Bushi the distinction of leading any conflict that may develop and taking care not to imperil himself within the sweep of the lightning-fast Crane's blade. And not of course, allowing his own steel to stir a breath from its scabbard before hostilities commence.

 Manners after all, maketh man.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:28, Tue 20 Nov 2007.

"We will continue with our chosen path, Lion-san," Miya Shiko announces, "though, if you wish to escort us to Toshi Ranbo, we will not take your presence amiss."

"I-I think not," the Lion Ashigaru replies nervously, "we shall report your presence to our superiors and they may send you an escort."

With that, the Lion Ashigaru turn their horses and gallop north--in the direction of Toshi Ranbo.

Kenji releases his sword and stands up fully.  "We should get moving," he says simply.

 The road-dusted figure in Ronin gray alongside the Bayushi swordsman lets his posture too slip from that subtle calm that marks the preparation to kill and die and into the equally subtle contentment of a traveller with many miles behind him, and many more to walk.

 Turning, he offers a slight but polite bow of acknowledgement and appreciation to the other Bushi, obviously conceding his place as the foremost sword in the midst of the group before he moves to rejoin Daidoji Sakura and settle in a little way behind and to the side of the young woman.

 Obviously, he's ready to go when anyone else is.

Sakura fell in beside the Imperial messenger, keeping her eyes on their surroundings.

"Kedo-Kun*" the young Shugenja quietly asked her Yojimobo, "What do you make of this so far? Do we have enough information to judge what draws the Lion's attention?"

'Reminder' she thought to herself'I ... no, we must make sure to educate Kedo-Kun on what to look for in Shadow creatures ...

[-Kun, in this case familiar-respectful, as if addressing a friend. Can also be used to a subordinate.]

 "No Daidoji-sama." replies the dust-gray Ronin simply as he paces in that same steady, distance-eating stride that's served to keep the footsore Bushi alongside his companions horse these many miles past, though he does so only after a moments thought.

 It's a short, simple answer of course - and nothing if not polite, but it does not seem to be one that despairs of ever understanding. Ashigaru of course are not likely to be trusted with deep secrets, nor would they intervene on their own authority with the passage of such as those with whom you travel, and there has been little to suggest that the true motives of the Lion in these parts are any more than they ever are and have been.

 Should that change however, no doubt so will his answer.

"I believe that this portends that we ought to travel with more stealth," Miya Shiko says thoughtfully, looking after the departing Lion, "even if it means sacrificing speed.  If nothing else," she grins, "it means that we know for certain that the 'honest' Lion really do sometimes have something to hide."

With that, the Miya urges her steed into a ground eating canter as you move forward deeper into Lion lands.

make a steath/perception check TN 15

 [ Whilst waiting upon something to reply to, '18:46, Today: Kedo rolled 15 using 3d10. Perception & Stealth, keeping Perception.' in the event that we are needing to move silently. ^_^ ]

[18:50, Today: Daidoji Sakura rolled 35 using 8d10, dropping the 6 lowest rolls, rerolling max. Perception/Stealth.

Man, I hope this roll was important -- this is the first time I've ever had two dice explode.]

Sakura looked at the Miya, a question clear on the Shugenja's face. Finally she looked forward, in the direction of their travel. It appeared that she had decided to hold her tongue, however events would undoubtedly change this appearance.[Private to Kaze no Kage: Waiting to see the results of the roll before Sakura actually makes her statement/question .... FYI: I had to assume that this was not a "move dishonorably" stealth roll since it involved Perception ....]

Kenji looks to the rest of the group, then moves to the front, hand still on his katana's hilt.  His eyes constantly rove the countryside, keeping watch for the next surprise.


OOC:
Perception/Stealth-53

No, I am not joking.  One of the dice exploded 3 times.  :D  Fricking awesome.

Less than two hours after the departure of the Lion ashigaru, Bayushi Kenji catches sight of several squads of Lion fanning out through the grasslands--presumably to find you.  Though Kenji's eyes are apparently the sharpest, all of you manage to see the searching Lion and get below their line of vision before they see you.

Sakura looked around at the small party. She was not concerned for herself or her Yojimbo, neither was she concerned with the Scorpion nor the Imperial. But she knew the honor of her "fellow Crane" would not likely stand up to this. And, as all Crane knew, it was the Daidoji that were supposed to deal with things like this.

"I am curious" she finally said, "why is it that the normally honorable Miya command such a dishonorable course?"

"It makes no difference to me" she continued, "but I must ask none-the-less."

 Of course, that leads to an interesting question (muses Kedo, as from his rather lower perch he traces the flight through the air of a small flock of birds disturbed by the actions of one or another of the searching parties), whether it is inherently dishonourable to avoid a confrontation that neither party truly wishes when ones purpose is neither shameful nor base, but merely one requiring speed.

 "Reputation is what others know of you. Honour is what you know about yourself." he then states after some moments, putting his thoughts into words in a way that, depending upon the listener, could either be seen to chide Sakura, chide Miya, or merely be a philosophical commentary with no particular significance.

 The gray-glad Bushi doesn't always live in the same world as the rest of you, after all.

"Quite true, Kedo-Kun" Sakura replied in a quiet tone meant for the whole party to hear, "my mistake. I apologize Shiko-Sama."

The question that remained was clear, though subtle: did Sakura make her 'mistake' on purpose?

[Private to Kedo: ROFL! I love it!]

"No offense taken, Daidoji-san.  After all, interesting times," Miya Shiko whispers wanly, "often call for...creative measures.  I would be most pleased to discuss this further, but I believe that we have trouble to avoid.  Should we attempt to forge ahead or wait for these searchers to clear out?"

OOC:  moving will increase the TN of your stealth rolls; staying will increase the number of rolls you'll have to make; your last rolls will lower the TNs of your future stealth rolls

 Kedo of course, has a certain advantage in the matter of not being seen - unlike most everyone else, he not only is not riding a horse, but in fact actually lacks one altogether, and is therefore by some six or so feet shorter than the tallest members of the group just now.
 That helps when people are looking for you, does that.

 He looks very, very mildly surprised when Daidoji sakura responds to his words as though they might have had some relevance to the situation, though is quick enough to simply nod and trust to the Kami to know what's going on, though since he's been woken from his reverie, he pays some attention to the discussion developing, and this time answers it in a slightly more pertinant fashion, though carefully, so as not to suggest he has ideas above his station. "When one loses a thing... does one stop looking before it is found?"

"Indeed, Kedo-san, and they have indeed lost us; at least for the time being," Kenji says.  Watching the search partys' patterns, he attempts to discern the best way through.  "But until we know where we can go, it would be prudent to stay out of sight."


OOC:
Intelligence/Stealth-24
Agility/Stealth (Sneaking)-32

"Stay it is then," Miya Shiko says, giving her steed a signal to sit--effectively concealing the Rokugani pony from sight.

The first pass of the searchers does not reveal your position and you can hear several of them inquiring loudly how they might find you hidden among the tall grass.

Agility/Stealth TN 10

[19:04, Today: Kakita Ukyo rolled 33 using 4d10 with rolls of 9,8,6,10. Unskilled Stealth Roll; Agility only 4k4.]

Ukyo worked hard to stifle back a cough that threatened to give away his presence... he managed to do so.

 And as various others start to take cover, Kedo does likewise, flexing with the smooth agility of a Bushi to lay himself flat upon the earth between the stands of tall grass, trusting to its embrace and the unexceptional gray of his armour to hide him from those who seek the group, despite his lack of formal training in the arts of shadow.

---

19:58, Today: Kedo rolled 29 using 4d10. Agility & Stealth, keeping Agility.

Looking at the others and himself, Ukyo wondered how the bright blues of the Crane clan were going to keep him hidden.  Normally he wouldn't hide.  He felt cowardly and dishonorable.  Given the circumstances of his assignment, it wouldn't do him any good to die here in a pointless fight.

That wouldn't further the goals of making it to Toshi Ranbo or hlping the Miya reach her destination.