[outside the Lion Camp | Kedo, Kitsune Shoji, Ikoma Hitori (NPC), Asahina Byako]

Given the recent conflict between the Crane and Lion over Toshi Ranbo^*, many of the Lion had chosen to set up camp well away from the Crane owned city of Mura Sabishii Toshi--the closest city to Kin Taiyo Heigen where the tournament was being held.  The rich soil of the Golden Sun Plains provided ideal growing conditions for the Imperial rice fields and an abundance of companion plants that might be overlooked as weeds by those unaware of their beneficial properties.


Kedo and Ikoma Hitori's path to the Lion camp took them past the spot where Asahina Byako and Kitsune Shoji were conducting their herbalism lesson.  But both were interrupted by an angry exclamation.

"How could you!" a man dressed in the colors of the Lion, wearing the mon of the Matsu declared, "after what happened in Toshi Ranbo, how dare you!"

It was the Lion who had caused a commotion in line earlier, that had left upon the arrival of Kitsune Shoji, his brother, and their bear, and now he was bearing down on Ikoma Hitori.

"How dare I what,  Matsu Kanto-san?" Ikoma Hitori replied sharply, stepping between Kedo and the angry Matsu, clearly not cowed by his rage.

"How dare you associate with enemies of the Lion!" he spat, glaring at Asahina Byako and Kedo, "does the blood of our Clan mean nothing to you?"

^* see volume 1

 Always one to take his duties with exacting seriousness - sufficient seriousness to leave more than one ingenious courtier exasperated and frustrated - Kedo accompanies his charge to the Lion encampment, his stride the usual balanced progression of one who feels no need to swagger or strut to draw the eye but who rather seeks merely to change his place in the world from this one to that.

 One thing he may not do however, is hide behind the lady he has accompanied all this way and as she interposed herself he steps forwards and to one side, taking up a defensive pose without a corresponding motion to draw steel (which would be insulting), choosing instead the far more potent - at least as a weapon of confusion and caution - edge of his tongue as he answers simply "I am afraid you are under a misapprehension Matsu-San. I have done battle against the Lion, yes but they are no more my enemy that the one who taught me to hold a blade or weigh the progress of a battle." - he nods to the assembled tents, indicating the family banners amongst them as he goes on "I have seen Akodo cunning and born witness to Matsu courage - how can I think of them less than fondly when we strove together with such sincerity?"

 Of course... This probably isn't what young Kantu wishes to hear...

Shoji found himself off guard, stooping to the ground, hands covered in dirt.  He had missed the Ikoma and the Lion at first, his attention focused on the pair of small woody mushrooms in his hand.  "They're easy to confuse," he commented to Asahina Byako.  "You can tell them apart, though, if you look at how the caps curl."  His eyes looked up at her searching her face for recognition.

"How could you!"
Kitsune Shoji's attention was pulled away from his lesson, and he rose to his feet, unsure at first if the Matsu, the Ikoma or the ronin even knew that he was there, concealed as he might have been amongst the tall grass.

His hand curled into a ball, a subtle if not commanding signal for Tadashi - his brother's loyal dog - to sit.  Shoji lacked the intimidation of the bear this time, having chosen to leave both the bear and Anju the fox back in camp.  Tadashi's nose could be useful in locating herbs, the others would be a distraction.

"Matsu-san, what luck.  I was hoping to find you!" Shoji exclaimed, moving his way through the tall grass.  There was nothing he could do about centuries of ill will, so he simply hoped to distract by pushing into a tangent.

"The tent, earlier.  You and the Mantis.  He seemed set on..." realizing that they weren't alone, the news wasn't his to share.  "Is there something I might be able to help with?"  The Fox was curious, and that was his real impetus.  That this was the tournament of the Minor Clans, though, granted at least a sliver authority.  A fued between the Mantis and the Lion could derail the tournament.

Byako examined the mushrooms thoughtfully and smiles. "Ah, I see it; this one's edge looks a bit like a foxes' tail when she is asleep in the snow, but this one is more like when she is on the hunt for a mouse."

At hearing that she was, apparently, someone's enemy, Byako tilted her head curiously. She had heard that the ronin Kedo was involved, somehow, in the battle with the Lion at Toshi Ranbo, so perhaps this Matsu WAS specifically referring to him, but clearly he was only referring to Byako in terms of her clan. Furthermore, neither she, nor this ronin, were actually the target of the Matsu's current aggression; he was focused on the storyteller, but, perhaps, given that there had been some sort of confrontation earlier, the Matsu may have chosen this moment for this confrontation because Shoji was here, and without any of his unusually large protection available.

Byako stepped forward and to the side, within the view of the Ikoma, and bowed politely. "Excuse me, Ikoma-san. Apparently we are 'associating', so I think it would be best if we knew each others' names. I am Asahina Byako. I hope that our retroactive 'association' has not caused you any troubles." Byako then turns to the Matsu and bows to him politely as well. "My apologies to you, if I have caused you or your kinsmen and grief, though, as I ascribe to my family's strongly held belief in pacifism, I highly doubt that I have cost any of your family any blood. I understand, though, that I cannot say the same for my clan, however. Any death is truly a tragedy, and I hope that some day the clans can find a way to avoid destroying so many lives with wars."

[outside the Lion Camp | Kedo, Kitsune Shoji, Ikoma Hitori (NPC), Asahina Byako]

"Is there something I might be able to help with?"

"You dare ask me that when you stand there with...gah!" the Matsu was rendered temporarily speechless by rage at Kedo's graciousness and Byako's eloquence.  His hand dropped to his sword, and he stood there, grinding his teeth in frustration.

"My brothers will be avenged!" he declared before stalking off.

"It is a fine thing to meet you, Asahina-san," Ikoma Hitori bowed, "my apologies for my kinsman's behavior.  He lost family in the seige and, well, he is having a difficult time accepting the losses of war."

"It seems, Kedo-san, that you will have to put up with my company for a bit longer," Hitori said apologetically, "at least until I can find a suitable escort that is equally capable of deflecting a Matus's anger with such aplomb."

 Kedo has had precious little to say about Toshi Ranbo - his presence there is undeniable and has been admitted to but of the battle he has, for the most part demurred in favour of declaring the tale one best told by those who had honour to gain in the struggle. There are snippets to pluck from other sources of course - there are a disconcerting number of Ashigaru with crippling but not life-threatening wounds who can attest to the presence of a Ronin to whom massed archery represents no greater threat than spring rain and some few tales from the battle itself... And of course the testimony of Koritome Ichiro, which would have noted that Kedo seems to enjoy taking time out from battle to play childrens board games... And was indecently well informed regarding the command signals that oversaw the Crane side of the battle.

 But nothing from Kedo himself... Until now.

 "Is there any possibility that Matsu Arugake, the crushing hammer of Kyuden Tonbo or Matsu Shigarami who served on the Kaiu wall for three seasons were amongst them? I had introductions of only a few of those I faced and they were the only Matsu to do so." the slim young Ronin inquires, looking perhaps a little troubled in a fashion that could be written off to cowardice by anyone who didn't have a fair idea from the wounded Ashigaru how little Kedo enjoys the act of killing - and just how good he is at it nonetheless.

 Byako's introduction (once Hitori has spoken) earns her a respectful bow but not actual speech (since Kedo has not been addressed directly and knows better than to talk out of turn) until Hitori misses her cue and the Ronin simply, but delicately offers "An honour Asahina-san, may I make known to you Ikoma Hitori, who is spoken of widely for her knowledge of our history."

 He cannot help but sigh chidingly towards the end of the Lion's words to him however, bowing to the inevitable even as he observes "It is far from seemly Ikoma-san. Your fascination with whatever 'mystery' I represent aside I am no fit escort for a Samurai-ko of good family unaccompanied by attendants. My swords can shield you from violence, but no blade was ever sharp enough to cut a whisper from the air."
This message was last edited by the player at 09:53, Fri 28 Aug 2015.

Byako bows politely to Hitori as she is introduced and then to Kedo "Thank you Kedo-san. And this is Kitsune Shoji, who was being so kind as to induct me into the study of plants and their uses.

Hitori-san, I too have lost family, though in my case it was to advanced age. If some representative of old age were available, I may be sorely tempted to spread a rumor about them that is every bit as sharp as the Matsu's blade."

"A pleasure to meet you, Kitsune-san," Ikoma Hitori bowed, "while I am always excited by the prospect of dramatic entertainment, I hope you will not take it amiss if I wish the rest of the tournament to be less tragic than poor Matsu-san's story."

"I am uncertain that Matsu-san intends to be subtle about his grudge, Asahina-san," Hitori replied to Byako, "he certainly seems to be as open and obvious as any Lion--and I say that as a representative example of that trait in my Clan.  While there are certainly men and women of subtle cunning among the Lion, I do not find myself among them.  As Kedo-san here can certainly attest, I have perhaps an unseemly tendency to over share an excess of information."

"I do not believe either of those Matsu were related to Matsu Kanto, Kedo-san," Hitori assured her ronin companion, "but tales of your exploits are legion among the survivors.  Perhaps Matsu-san cannot imagine his siblings being defeated in battle by any lesser personage."

"As for my reputation, I cannot imagine a better guardian than yourself.  After all, it is a well known fact that the Crane trusted you with the reputation of Daidoji Sakura--and that you were immune to her considerable charms."

Finding himself at a loss after the Matsu stormed off, Shoji stood and stared.  He almost missed Byako's introduction.  A bow thanked her for the honor.

"I'm afraid to say, Ikoma-san, that I'm at a loss.  I don't know the tragedy of Matsu-san's story." He fidgeted, trying to self diagnose if it was his rampant curiosity that wanted him to inquire or if it was his sense of duty to his family.

"I hesitate to ask, but could you tell his story?" It seemed like a safe question of the bard, something she'd be willing to comply with.  "I saw them in the tent - him and the Yoritomo.  Normally I wouldn't stick my nose where it doesn't belong, but the tournament is very important to the Fox.  So I hope you can forgive any intrusion under my desire to keep the focus of the tournament on the competition, not fueds.  While I doubt I can fix it, I hope we can keep the conflict between Yoritomo-san and Matsu-san from escalating.  I spoke to Yoritomo-san in the tent... it sounds like both sides have suffered loss and seek to balance it with blood."

 It isn't often that someone can put Kedo off sufficiently to make it show, but when reference is made to 'Daidoji Sakura and her considerable charms' there is a moment of genuine puzzlement that spreads across his features, as though it never occurred to him for a moment to confuse the beauty of the scabbard for the shape of the blade within (which is not to say that Sakura is not well-crafted, only that to extend the analogy the qualities of short, dark and slender have very different implications when extended to steel).

 He dismisses the thought swiftly enough however, simply to answer "I do not know that I should be held responsible for that failure of your imagination Ikoma-san." in a tone not entirely devoid of teasing, cemented by his adding more dryly "Blame for the spreading of scurrilous tales about a Ronin amidst honourable Bushi on the other hand, is rather easier to assign."

Byako almost replies with a joke about lack of imagination, apparently, being common amongst the clan of the Lion, but decides that discretion is just as much the better part of pacifism as it is of valor. Instead she just smiles a bit, seemingly at Kedo's response.
With her second thought her face becomes more serious: "My apologies for being overly frank, but with the heart of the Lion and the sons of thunder vying for each others' blood, it seems likely that all manner of injustice will bedevil these games until their unhealthy thirst for blood is quenched or quelled. And neither family is known for its cooler heads, nor its keenness to listen to unrequested advice. Both are, however, known for their loyalty to the Empire, so perhaps Otomo Haijime, the Emporer's representative to these games, could be of some assistance in bringing winter to this particular battle."

"So says the man who defeated a dozen armed assassins, while naked, in a bath house," Ikoma Hitori replied dryly to the Ronin, "the limits of my imagination aside--and I would daresay most imaginations would strain to accept some of the stories I have gathered about you--if my physical safety were at risk, I know who to hide behind.  And as for my virtue, well, I am certain that any number of Crane would leap to your defense, considering."

But before she could wax poetic about Kedo's exploits, Kitsune Shoji asked a question, and Hitori, being who she was, could hardly avoid answering.

"Ah well, the tale is a simple one, or perhaps not so simple, but the facts are known by many," the Lion Omoidasu replied, "shortly before the descent of Winter, the Lion attempted once again to retake Toshi Ranbo wo Shien Shite Reigisaho.  Toshi Ranbo was defended by a reasonably sized garrison of mostly Daidoji trained samurai and ashigaru.  We knew it would be a difficult battle, but we had gathered an army large enough to overcome the City's defenses and planned for a siege that was not intended to be protracted--war being what it is, a protracted siege was also prepared for--thus numbers and superior experience with siege warfare was expected to win the day."

"Due to a confluence of unexpected events and unplanned alliances, the Lion managed to breach the walls but failed to take the City.  Besides the Crane within, the Scorpion and Mantis also sent forces to harry the Lion on the outside of the walls.  In the end, of course, the Crane won the day--which, when it comes to armies, is the truest test of a Clan's mettle in warfare."

"I had come to Toshi Ranbo on unrelated business--looking for a duel wielding ronin of some reknown that was involved at some point with Kitsuki Morimoto.  I never did find him, but I digress.  Afterwards, I took it upon myself to gather the tales of the battlefield--war being a time of both great heroism and great loss, and stories of both being necessary to inspire and caution future generations."

Ikoma Hitori did not say that there were a number of tales she had heard regarding the Ronin Kedo and his exploits on the battle field--among them, holding a position agains whole squads of archers while cutting arrows from the air, and stopping in the middle of the street to play aboard game.

"That is, I believe, the heart of Matsu-san's grudge.  The loss of siblings, yes, but also a battle where the Lion failed to achieve their objective.  If we had succeeded, then their loss would have been heroic.  But having failed, he may be struggling to see death as another failure."

 "There were ten, of whom I slew two and captured one. Doji Akibieden and three Daidoji Guards also engaged the foe and saved a considerable number of lives." Kedo points out with painstaking correctness, neglecting to mention that he also wounded two who subsequently escaped, although even he colours slightly at the mention of hiding behind him, apparently taking that as a sidelong reference as well since he remarks "There were only four archers and they were much distracted." in a slightly defensive tone.

 As for talk of Kitsuki Moritomo?

 Well now there he keeps his mouth tightly, tightly shut, opening it again only to observe "I have never understood the desire to declare the failings of a foe - had there been no chance of failure, surely there would have been little glory in a Lion victory? Does not the strength of the foe make all the greater the glory that accrued to those who strove with such courage?", effectively branding himself, Ronin grey or no with his Dragon origins.

As Shoji listened, his eyes grew large.  "Thank you, Ikoma-san.  I've been stuck under a rock this past year, and while I've heard broad details, the detail is captivating."

His eyes flashed at Kedo, and Shoji bowed deeper than he probably should to a ronin.  "My apologies, Kedo-san.  I didn't realize that I was in the presence of an acclaimed warrior."

The Fox shugenja's hand jutted out, ending the life of a fly that was in the process of trying to bite his arm.  "That is another tragedy of war, is it not?  The dead stay dead, and memories linger.  I don't think the Yoritomo or the Matsu will be willing to put this behind them.  I fear this escalating."

Shoji squinted, the light of the setting sun stinging his eyes.  "The Yoritomo swore vengence, and the Matsu seems to want the same.  Do you think they'd be willing to drop this if they hand the chance to settle it martially?  A duel?  Or personal combat?  Its doubtful the Mantis can play both sides - both a minor and a great Clan - for long.  Perhaps they'd be willing to adjust their event, and allow those who wish to settle their grievances."

"Kedo-Kun!" From ... somewhere, the Daidoji twins arrived. Their identicalness, even down to their mannerisms and the slight imperfections of the Daidoji tattoos, made it impossible for anyone to know exactly which sister was which.

Anyone but Kedo that is.

Having been one of the very, very few that knew Kasumi's true origins -- and being a Samurai with remarkable perception as well -- Kasumi had no doubt that this one could tell them apart.

"How's my favorite riddle today?"

Nothing quite like an inside joke.

 Kedo's bow is automatic and fractionally deeper of course, his tone hardly dismissive but simply philosophical as he answers "I have had the good fortune to be permitted to test myself against opponents of no small skill and courage, if there is honour in that then it I share it with them.", apparently meaning every word and unsurprisingly therefore observing with genuine regret that "I do not of myself recall a time when a duel truly ended an enmity so readily - for the most part they simply delay their resumption for a generation, although perhaps Ikoma-san would know of a..."

 That's where the corner of one of his eyes develops a very slight twitch.

 He's a calm fellow is Kedo, sure and certain and balanced enough to pivot an Empire about - or at least a couple of Great Clans - but where one Daidoji Sakura wasn't enough to unsettle him and two was only enough to keep him busy, it's been a quiet nightmare of his for some time now to take the two of them and add Ikoma Hitori to the mix. Manners maketh however, and the Bushi who - for a Bushi - has spent more time than many Ishiken floating in the infinite currents of the void, buoyed and uplifted by his insight turns to offer a deep bow to each woman in turn, "Kasumi-san, Sakura-san. As always a pleasure...", his response to the question a good-natured and unsurprisingly Koan-ic "Much distracted, Kasumi-san.", identifying which shockingly beautiful, absolutely identical woman is which as he has done since they first appeared...

...by not looking at them.

"That is because you, Kedo-San, are a mature and rational adult, whereas many samurai, given the privilege of their station, are not," Ikoma Hitori noted before noticing the two lovely Crane ladies, "you are...oh my goodness...Kedo-san," she hissed, not quietly enough not to be heard, "an introduction please!" 

 "Of course Ikoma-san." Kedo answers automatically, dismissing the conversation in progress to assume a position where he can indicate appropriately, "Ikoma-san, may I make known to you Daidoji Sakura, whom I had the privilege to accompany to Toshi Ranbo as her yojimbo and her younger sister Daidoji Kasumi, whose mystery is as great as her beauty." - which if nothing else demonstrates that a month or two of grinding away shoe leather in the company of an Ikoma is good for teaching a young man courtier skills.

 "Daidoji-sans, may I in turn make known my companion of recent journeys, the estimable and storied Ikoma Hitori, for whom all our strivings and challenges are but the threads of a history yet to be told..." he then proceeds to offer with typically Kedo perspective.

A proposed resolution, it seemed, was not to be had at this moment.  The glorious Kedo, of whom so many stories were told that he - a ronin - had earned an Ikoma bard to speak for him was suddenly distracted from the task at hand.

Kitsune Shoji, for his part, couldn't necessarily complain -- the nature of the twins was distracting.  Identical twins, however, weren't an unnatural thing.

He stood quietly and waited patiently, the ronin having managed an introduction for the bard but not the others standing there made him unsure of whether or not an introduction was pending, or if it was a not-so-subtle indication to get lost.

His eyes cast over to the Asahina, his student for the evening, to ask for a hint.

Byako dipped her nose and winked playfully at Shoji. Then she positioned herself so she could be seen by the Daidoji twins and could indicate to them Shoji. Then she bowed to them and addressed them "We have not yet met, Sakura-san and Kasumi-san, but we only have barely now met Kedo and Hitori-san, so they cannot, exactly, introduce us. Since I'm your own clansman, I'll take it upon myself to do so! I am Asahina Byako, and this is Kitsune Shoji, my erstwhile sensei. I have only met him today, but he's already taken on the task of teaching me a bit about herbalism. Also, I know he likes animals, so he's probably very trustworthy.
Oddly enough we were all brought together when a vigorously beating heart decided to beat, perhaps, a bit too vigorously and tried to flush away a bit of memory. Now we're all just making platitudes about how to solve the issue, like my favorite; using metaphorical references to people, families, and clans to ease the tensions surrounding the issues at hand!"

The twins exchanged the proper "pleased to meet you"'s before Kasumi continued onto her target.

"Oh, well we just wanted to share some gossip. Like I hear Lesson is on its way."

"Say" she asked to the Bard, "Did you get him to tell the story of Shogi in the middle of the Great Battle? I sometimes think he's a little too humble ..."

Sakura's warning glare cut her off, but Kasumi wasn't worried. One day a Samurai would find out what the twins were really capable of.

Of course, they wouldn't live to tell the story.

 Someone with even a modest level of courtiers skill might well discern that there's no apparent intention upon Kedo's part, only that as a man clad in wave-man grey he's loathe to impose too deeply upon the social interactions of others and would likely have left the introductions to the individual with the highest station present had he not been metaphorically nudged by his Lioness companion...

 ...they might also discern from the attitudes of Ronin, Daidoji and Ikoma alike that banging on the 'glorious Kedo' drum is probably the best way to pay him back for any imagined slight, as he looks downright uncomfortable.

 And only grows more so as Kasumi speaks, although that discomfort is mingled with a degree of anticipation as he remarks modestly "It will be good to see Lesson once more, particularly when...", only to let his words fall away with a rueful sigh and the observation that "...I had not thought Daidoji harriers to be inclined towards gossip.", although in the midst of it all he offers a small nod to the twins, as though acknowledging a point.

"I had heard the tale of the bar games in the midst of the battle," Ikoma Hitori giggled, "and I had heard some discussion regarding a no-dachi that was brought up during our travels.  I take it you have more stories about the mysterious ronin that I have yet to hear?  Oh, I am so excited!  But I will need pen and ink if I am to record them all!"

It was clear the Ikoma would be able to continue in that vein for far long than anyone wanted to listen, but, of course, there were other people to converse with.

Do you think they'd be willing to drop this if they hand the chance to settle it martially?  A duel?  Or personal combat?  Its doubtful the Mantis can play both sides - both a minor and a great Clan - for long.  Perhaps they'd be willing to adjust their event, and allow those who wish to settle their grievances.

"While I'll not argue that that idea has merit, Shoji-san, I believe our Sparrow hosts would discourage it.  No one wants an accidental fatality to mar the games, and given what I witnessed, I doubt either party would settle for less.  I wonder, though, if either of their superiors might be willing to send them home before they cause a problem..."

Shoji offered a bow and a smile of gratitude to Asahina Byako, having navigated his issue of introduction.

"That's a fine idea, Ikoma-san.  I can speak to the Sparrow.  They're probably the best to deal with it, being the official hosts.  I'm nervous, though, that their superiors may have a similar laments.  It seems unlikely that only one Matsu and one Yoritomo are carrying a grudge."

Kedo's comment caught his ear, "Harrier's?  I'm not sure if I've ever met a Harrier before.  Daidoji-sans, I'm pleased to meet you.  My brother will be disappointed he missed the introduction.  I may have to send him to meet you later, if you're inclined."

His eyes drifted warmly back to Byako, unsure if she had more business with the ronin and his Lion escort, or if she wanted to continue their lesson.

Byako smiles at the glance. She turns to the gathered assemblage and bows to each according to their station. "It appears that a way forward has been identified and a commitment has been made to walk the way. If you all don't mind, I would like to return to my tutelage; there is much to learn, before I can even pretend to competence, before the competitions begin!" She turns to Shoji "Shoji-sama, we have seen what grows in the field; perhaps you could show me the intricacies of what is growing in that stream over there?" she says, pointing to a small stream that provides water to the encampment.

After casting an eye toward Lady Sun, Shoji turned to nod to Byako.  "There will be plenty of time to talk with the Sparrow later," he agreed.  "Its best that we finish our lesson during daylight."

He turned and bowed deeper than he should to the ronin, "Kedo-sama, I hope to hear more of your legendary accomplishments at a later date," and to the Ikoma, "Doubtless we've only heard a small portion.  It seems the fortunes shine on the ronin."

And to the Daidoji bows that were as deep as was polite, "Tomorrow, I hope."

If she was ready to leave, Shoji let the Asahina lead him down toward the river.

Byako led the way to a portion of the water way where the water was formed into a bit of a pool; she knew that more vegetation was evident in the slower moving parts. Once there she turned to Shoji and said softly "There seemed to be something you wanted to discuss, beyond your remaining lessons in plant life."

Following, Shoji knelt down to inspect a moss.  After a moment, he looked up at Byako.

Byako smiles, in that exotic, vaguely predatory, way that she always smiles. "I suppose I have a story to tell, though my interest is more in witnessing the dramas playing out in this world. I hope you won't tell those around us; people will act differently, and that will ruin the scene. I am curious, though; how did you know? I have heard that your clan often interacts with those like me, does that give you special insight?"

Shoji's eyes drifted back to the ground, and his hands dipped into the dirt, scraping away some surface dirt.  His smile might have been difficult to see.
After a moment of digging, Shoji produced the root.  "Dried and ground this acts as a mild sedative.  Perhaps for someone having trouble sleeping at night."
This message was lightly edited by the player at 13:10, Mon 21 Sept 2015.

"Ah, I see. A mild sedative, that could be very useful to someone with injuries who needs rest. As for my story, I can probably tell you now, while I see if I can dig some of this up as well."
Byako kneels down and begins digging in the riverbank as well, trying to find the same root.
"my wild times are mostly a blur, as is usual for most denizens of Chikushudo; we live in the moment and past and future are not relevant. One day, however, in winter I was wandering through the woods, play-hunting, when I came across a woman. I now know her name was Asahina Shirako. She was very pregnant and gathering materials to perform a blessing ceremony for her newborn. I'm not sure if it was the exertion, or simply the fortunes playing fickle, but she went into premature labor right there in the snow covered woods. She couldn't make it back home, or anywhere, really; the baby was coming and quickly. She had the child there, in the snow, by herself. She had seen me watching them during her labor, and thought it was a good omen; she even named the child Byako. But Byako, the human Byako, was too weak and sickly from being born far too early. She died within minutes of being born. The shock of giving birth, along with the sadness of losing the child was too much for Shirako-sama. She wrote the name of the baby in the snow next to her, so that her father would know, then held the baby close and laid down in the snow; I think, now, that she had simply lost the will to live.
This tragedy was much like the enlightenment that the monks seek, for me. It made me think about the past and wonder about the future. It made me crave for more of these human emotions. So I take the baby from Shirako-sama's arms and took it to a hole I'd been sleeping in and buried her there. Then I changed into the form of a human for the first time and took her place.
Later the search party found me in my dead mother's arms, with my name written in the snow next to us. They took me, and my name, to my father. Along with the tragic story of my mother dying giving birth to me. My father loved me very much; not only was I his daughter, but also his link to his beloved wife. He never sought to marry me off, and I never looked for suitors; I stayed with him until his dying day. Since then I have been wandering, always looking for human drama, and trying to protect peace and life."
The whole time she was monologuing her story, Byako had been rooting through the mud and muck. As she came to a close, she held up a root and gave a coy grin. "Ah, is this the same type of root? Or have I been digging at the wrong plant?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:24, Thu 17 Sept 2015.

Kasumi's lilting laugh split the air.

"No, not Harriers -- not the traditional kind, anyway." of course, the Shugenja paraphernalia said much the same thing.

"Well, Kedo-Kun, make sure you save time for tea with your former charges. We can talk more."

"It's a pleasure to meet you all. If you have time for tea, let us know."

 "Few realise that they have Kitsune-san, if the opportunity presents I shall make you known to one." Kedo answers gladly, bowing slightly when the other man comments, only to wince as though lightly struck when coming out of his bow at the use of the word 'legendary'*

 He is however, along with all else a strategist and so for a moment his head tilts and his lip quirks up as he asks "Perhaps the invitation may do well to be answered by Ikoma-san?, it would permit me to speak with certain individuals and I cannot but feel that in my absence there would be less reason to embroider the events of Toshi Ranbo.", his tone less accusatory and rather more teasing.

 ---

 * Rather disconcertingly, after Toshi Ranbo, Kedo was Glory 6-7. Even now, he's probably 5-6. This means random strangers know him on a TN 30-35 Awareness roll:

OOC: Splitting things a bit.  Sorry.

"My interest is peaked," the Kitsune replied with a bow.  "I'll take you up on the tea."  An open acceptance to cover an open offer.  Things were shaping up rather busily for the shugenja and he wasn't sure when there would be time.

With a bow he excused himself from the "Harrier's" and the ronin.

****
[Down by the river | Byako and Shoji]
Shoji's eyes followed the Asahina as she related her story.  Admiration glazed his eyes.  "That's a powerful gift, Byako-san.  Your father was a lucky man to receive it, and you were most generous to give it.  Or perhaps it was a call to duty?  It seems a shame that more people won't hear the story."

His eyes glanced down, watching her fingers as she pulled the root from the earth.  "Excellent," he praised.  "Now you know how to calm a headache, or simply a busy mind."  His own root he placed back into the soil, covering it up and giving it another chance to grow.

"There's a similar story in my family.  Not that anyone died, or any of your kind making such a sacrifice.  More the setting, I suppose.  Forests are dangerous places.  Years ago... no... generations ago, one of my ancestors found a boy huddled in Kitsune Mori.  A storm was raging, a thick blizzard.  They took the boy and kept him safe until the storm passed and it had thawed enough for them to search for his parents."  He patted the soil, making sure the root was safe.  "It didn't take them long.  By that time half of the Doji family must have been combing the woods.  It turns out the boy was the only son of the Doji champion.  He told my ancestors that he would take care of their heirs as they had taken care of his.  The Doji still honor that promise, allowing members of my family to train with them if they're so inclined.  One of my sisters trains with them."

In reply to Kedo (msg # 33):

"Oh I very rarely embroider events," the Ikoma giggled, "and the details that I alter a purpose Are for the sake of the art, like a colorful wrapping on the grip of a blade.  It does nothing to change its quality for good or ill, but it makes the appearance more pleasing to the eye.  Conversely, one can hardly disguise a true craftsman with an alias and ronin grey and expect the true quality to fail to shine through and be acknowledged."

[Down by the river | Byako and Shoji]
"Please don't misunderstand me; I don't feel that it was I that made a sacrifice. My father is the one who sacrificed; he took a posting in the lands of the Scorpion because it meant he would be able to keep me near. He raised me alone for his whole life. In lean times he would eat millet so that I could eat rice. He even handled his own finances¹ even beyond when I could have taken that duty over. From the moment I came into his life, his life became one of near constant sacrifice for me. I suspect that he even knew, though refused to admit, even to himself, that I was not really his own flesh and blood. But he still loved me and cared for me. Now that I understand what it all means, I understand that I did not deserve this, but I also understand that he wouldn't have cared whether I deserved it or not; I was his daughter.

It is a great thing your ancestor did for the Doji boy. Some do not understand it, but helping those who are suffering, be they hinin² or kuge, is the basis for all that is good within the world. That is the same lesson I learned from my experience."


Footnotes:
1. In Feudal Japan, the woman of the household would handle all of the household expenses; the man got an allowance which he could use as he saw fit, without the burden of concern about household budget.
2. Talk about doing good for people, and even more so, implying that hinin are people (that one should do good for), is probably a pretty major social faux paus.

 "Expect, no... hope perhaps, not that I have yet achieved so exalted a state." Kedo answers, quite unaware that his offhanded inference to the Harriers in the city gossiping with the Ikoma storyteller has been misunderstood to refer to the Daidoji 'twins' and therefore not in a position to address the point (and sufficiently rattled in any case to actually indulge in some egotism - if only by his use of the word 'yet') before he offers a bow to both women and murmurs "But for the moment, if I might leave you in one another's company while I seek an answer to a question that has troubled me for some time?"

 Assuming that permission is forthcoming, he then retreats to go and seek out a certain angry Matsu, hoping that thereby he might come a little closer to touching the sleeve of wisdom.

[Down by the river | Byako and Shoji]
There was an implication, but perhaps Shoji missed it, or he didn't compute the slight.  Hinin may not be samurai, but they are something to be cared for.

"I look forward to getting to know you, Byako-san," Shoji beamed.  His eyes looked up, noting the departure above of the ronin Bono Kedo.  His eyes searched the river around him, "I think I may be taxed, at least for the evening.  I'm not planning on competing tomorrow, but I still should be fresh for Daichi-san, should he need anything."

He stood, offering a hand to the Asahina, "We still have some time before the Fox's competition.  If you'd like, we can resume another day."

Byako takes the proffered hand to assist her in gaining a solid footing "Alas, there are other skills that I must attempt to gain basic proficiency with as well. However, if I can be of any assistance to you, please let me know. I'm sure you will see me around." Byako smiles with a sly, playful smile: "You have as your companion the most handsome fox in camp, after all!"
Byako brushes herself off a bit and straightens her kimono. "Can I offer to walk you back to the Kitsune camp, before I return to the Crane?"

"Whatever you do, please don't tell that to Anzu.  Her ego is inflated enough without flattery," Shoji returned the Asahina's playful grin.

"That would be nice," Shoji answered Byako's offer of company.  "My brother is likely occupied preparing for tomorrow, so camp will likely be quiet.  Anzu and Shoji are fine companions, but rather lacking in the area of conversation," he joked.  He mulled the thought for a moment, "Daichi, I suppose, isn't much for conversation either."

"I will keep it our secret." Byako smiles again. "I'm sure that Anzu, Shoji, and Daichi all speak volumes with their actions; it is the nature of some to vocalize, and others to do. When we join your kind, it is the nature of my kind to vocalize, but I have found that many people are more comfortable conveying their intent through actions, sometimes even more subtle than the most sly courtier in the Emperor’s court. I think even Shinsei was a man of few words." Byako begins the stroll towards the Kitsune camp, talking as she walks.

It wasn't a topic that Shoji was terribly comfortable with, but they had touched on it, and given what Byako had shared, Shoji felt that she had earned a measure of trust.

"Daichi is definitely more hands-on, but when I saw 'isn't much for conversation' I was soft-selling the point.  He isn't at all for conversation.  Or words.  None.  At least, not in a couple of years."  He eyed the Asahina for moment to see if she was following.  He remembered that she probably hadn't actually met him.

"I mentioned our connection with the Doji before?  Well, it doesn't hurt to have powerful friends who can call in favors.  Many of my siblings train in non-Kitsune schools.  My family thinks its important as a minor clan... you know... meet people, build alliances.  Given his gifts, it was arranged for Daichi to train with the Crab.  The Hida."  His voice dropped.  The story wasn't a secret - Daichi wore the Hida school mon - but still wasn't something that Shoji shared often.

"When the Crab allied with the Shadowlands, it was Daichi's duty to march with them to Beiden Pass.  He hasn't spoken a word since."  He paused.  "It must have been horrible."

"Don't forget tea, Kedo-Kun. You wouldn't want me to come looking for you ..."

Quite sure that Kedo wasn't leaving Ikoma-San in their capable hands, Kasumi bowed attempting to dismiss themselves.  "Feel free to come seek us out" she said with a bow.

The Ikoma would probably not be so easy to leave, but if they were somehow 'allowed to escape' they would head to Crane HQ.

Byako is visibly surprised by this. "I see. He must not speak, because the thing he would have to speak about is unspeakable. It is a sad state of affairs. Hopefully he will be able to resolve this within himself some day. If I can do anything to help his troubled mind, please let him know that I would be happy to help."

This message was deleted by the player at 22:32, Tue 29 Aug 2017.