Month: December 2024

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 42

Posted on December 30, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Journey to the Mountain’s Anvil

On the morning of the 20th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}) the four samurai made their way back into the mine. They left the Bell of Air at its repaired station by the entrance. There were plans to add a small shrine into the wall next to it, but Tatsu san had not started on it yet. Continuing on to the chamber with the jade and obsidian they made their way deeper.

Otaku Gunba san recommended sealing the chamber back up until they could figure out how to handle the situation. Isawa Tamaki san agreed and they both thought the Stone Mask of Water and the Lantern of the Void should be sealed up inside. This would prevent someone else from finding this and exploiting it before steps could be taken to secure the safety of the jade and the kami.

Shosuro Hanzo san was moved once again upon seeing such a deliberate sign of the power of the kami. Turning to Donoha sama as they rested their hand upon the jade floor that had been changed into un-tainted obsidian during the pacification of the kami. Well known for their aversion to being dirty or unclean this was surprising behavior to say the least. Turning to the Dragon, “Donoha sama, have you ever seen something so beautiful that everything else you looked upon afterward faded a little, as though other things somehow lessened in clarity and importance?”

The Dragon nodded, “I understand exactly what you’re going through.” The Dragon made a note about things that made his newest friend tick. Setting the Stone Mask of Water and the Lantern of the Void within the jade cavern opening, they asked the Unicorn and Phoenix shugenja to seal the opening once more. It was done and Tamaki san added mons for the Fortune Osana-Wo, Fire, Earth, and the clan mons of the five samurai that helped this village in the stone.

Jiro san would be told to not touch the wall with the mons etched upon it until their return from Suigeki Toshi. The group returned to the village and by the 24th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}), everything had been repaired and upgraded slightly. The buildings all had stone filters to collect snow and rainwater. It would filter into the small gardens and produce food to help feed the villagers. None of the buildings were drafty. The shrine was visited everyday now and Jiro san was leading everyone in exercises at the beginning of the workday. When they were off their work they wore and treasured the kimonos they had been gifted. The two spares that were left were kept as permanent offerings in the shrine. Should the kami ever wish to wear them and walk among the people.

During the 20th to the 24th Taro san had been exclusively helping as Donoha sama’s assistant. Fetching things for him while he was at the forge teaching Tatsu san his craft. Both with the Hammer of Earth and without so he could appreciate what a gift he was being tasked with wielding. This also served in allowing Donoha sama to the chance to experiment with what the nemurani hammer was capable of.

When it came time to depart the mining village of the Serpent’s Tail mine. Donoha sama requested Tetsuo san to let Jiro san know that he would be taking Taro san with him as his retainer. Of course no one complained but the Dragon was fond of having his intentions known by all so their could be little debate.

Thus the last member of the six people that had tried to kill Donoha sama became his retainer as the left towards Suigeki Toshi or Water Hammer City is low Rokugani. The name has been change fairly recently to Mountain’s Anvil Castle as it has grown into a full city with a castle and lord. Becoming one of the largest metal manufacturing centers in the Dragon lands. Not wishing to push themselves the group arrived on the 25th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}). The Dragon knew they had arrived before ever seeing the towers of the buildings built on and into the mountains. The ringing of anvils gave away their location and it was one of the sound Donoha sama always equated with sheer joy.

Upon arriving to the center of the city which had a small castle for governing the day to day affairs of the city. The group was approached by a young male in a very fine but subtlety embroidered kimono of shades of green. They stopped a short distance as Donoha sama broke away from his companions leaving his horse with Taro san to hold the reins while Hanzo san waited next to it. The others had been leading their mounts as well. The entire city streets had been cleared of snow and it was obvious there were people dedicated to not just removing snow but keeping them clean of all debris!

The young male introduced themselves as Mirumoto Renjiro, acting governor of Mountain’s Anvil as his father has passed away. Donoha sama introduced themselves and expressed condolences for the passing of the young Mirumoto’s father. Sharing that their fathers likely knew of each other. Prompting Mirumoto sama to ask if Donoha sama’s family ran the copper mine he had heard about. The Dragon courtier confirmed as such.

Next, the Mirumoto introduce a member of the Crane and the Scorpion clans, which notedly surprised Donoha sama! This far into Dragon lands to have retainers from other clans seemed strange but would have been normal in Otosan Uchi. Doji Kyouji san from the Crane Clan and Bayushi Koruma from the Scorpion clan. The Crane looked as graceful and elegant as Doji Hoto had once appeared, but this obvious courtier carried no Kakita blade at their side. In fact, they carried no weapon of any kind. Inwardly, the Dragon courtier had to remind himself to not instantly dislike the man based on his interactions with the imposter Crane, Hoto.

The Scorpion on the other hand had a the appearance of a hunched back, carried a daisho. This was the kind of man you warned your children to be wary of when they went outside. It was a textbook description of how most people would describe a Scorpion to someone not of that clan. Even knowing this was likely a facade the man put on when in public. Donoha sama found himself liking him for such a well portrayed falsehood.

Donoha sama in turn introduced each of his traveling in the most unusual way, he started with Kitagawa-neko sama! Getting permission from the Mirumoto governor to display a small portion of the katana upon their back. He revealed the jade infused blade, which glinted green in the light of Amaterasu gaze. Then explaining the cat would follow whomever held the blade. Returning the blade to his back, he then introduced everyone in order of their arrival to the group.

It was discussed about how the young governor was stepping up to fill the role of their late father until the Mirumoto and Kitsuki families could decide upon whom the next governor would be. Donoha sama mentioned their group was with the Emperor’s Gift caravan and they were being led to the High House of Light by Tetsuo san. In order to meet with the Clan Champion on the Emperor’s behalf. He was deliberately leaving out the part about carrying messages to safeguard their cargo.

Then he explained their work on the mine and how it had been run down, attack by the snowmen or yeti of the mountains. Apparently, the Scorpion bushi had faced one while in the service of the young governor’s father and during this acting governor’s tenure. He continued about how the mine and its shrine had been wrecked, and the kami were angered causing the miners to become unable to continue their work. Next, he explained how the Phoenix and the Unicorn shugenja along with their Scorpion courtier were able to pacify the kami while he helped to rebuild the village.

The young governor nodded and explained that their last shipment had been late but these events would easily explain such a delay. Upon asking if the village needed more help Donoha sama said they absolutely would. He explained he had taken Taro san as his retainer in case things needed to be accomplished that samurai could not do. The young governor nodded but did not question the choice.

Donoha sama was studying the advisors during all of this. His trained eye and the *ichi-maru* of the Kitsuki investigators allowed him to see that both the Crane and the Scorpion were looking after this boy the way a parent would. It was also clear that each of them disliked the other. He imagined this is what an Imperial court looked like on a much smaller scale.

Donoha sama offered a gift of craftsmanship before he left. The young governor could provide some iron and he would make something from it before leaving. With being offered such a generous gift the young governor offered them an unused building and they would have lodgings setup while they dined and Donoha sama regaled everyone with tales of his exploits.

With that arrangement made everyone bowed and they parted ways. Tetsuo san had spotted another monk from the Brotherhood of Shinsei, and excused themselves to go and converse. Everyone began to head to their lodgings. The samurai found the house pointed out to them on the cliffside that had been referred to. It was very clean and empty but would have furnishings provided. They set their gear upon and surrounding the box with the missive at Gunba san’s suggestion so it would remain hidden. Afterwards, they tried to seek out if there was a bath-house available somewhere in the city.

They were directed to the waterfall and soon found Tetsuo san engaged with a monk that turned out to be one of the two founders, Haru san! Leaving him to their conversation they soon met the other founder, Agasha Tamori san! It would seem the young governor asked him to come and heat the waterfall for the guests to bath in. Donoha sama tried to gently find out why the Agasha family had defected to the Phoenix. Alas he did not find out that answer as Tamori san did not have it. He did learn that not all of the Agasha had left which was a relief to know the Dragon Clan was not without shugenja!

Explaining each item he left Mittsu Tamashi and the jade katana in the Dragon shugenja’s care. They were honored and Kitagawa-neko sama curled up for a nap upon Donoha sama’s items. He kept his smithing hammer in his hand just as he had done with in the last two hot springs in Phoenix lands. Because the area they were bathing in was secluded from public view they were able to relax. Hanzo san began to play a song for the Water Kami. As Gunba san made sure to commune with the kami and make sure they could hear and enjoy the gift.

During their commune though the Water Kami was sharing visions with Gunba san. During this a dark vision popped up that was very recent but the kami seemed to apologize. Pushing it aside because they did not want to convey something dark when the song was so beautiful to them. After that was over the Unicorn tried to talk with the Phoenix but he had a blissful look on his face. Turning to the Dragon he asked Donoha sama if they could chat for a minute.

The Dragon got out, dried off and collected their belongings. Joining the Unicorn after letting everyone know they shouldn’t keep their host waiting. They discussed in their building about the dark vision and the Dragon made plans to gently poke the bee hive during the upcoming meeting. With everyone soon back together they headed into the governor’s castle.

Upon entering the foyer of the castle they were greeted by a graying haired servant of the young governor. She bowed and stepped aside to welcome them in with a practiced wave of their arm. The Dragon looked for empty sword racks to leave is weapons in. The only sword stand or rack was next to very nice suit of armor that was likely worn by the young governor’s father. It had been positioned on its armor box to look as though it were sitting. Donoha sama knelt before the armor and bowed his head to the floor.

“Thank you for allowing us into your home and the home of your son.”

He removed Mittsu Tamashi and placed it in the lap of the armor, wrapping the gauntlets around the tsuka and saya. Noticing a bowl with incense burning in it he turned to see if he could get some more. The servant was clearly practiced in her craft as she was holding three sticks for him. Donoha sama thanked them and lit the incense before leading the group up the steps to the second floor indicated by the servant. Taro san waited just outside the castle’s door in case he would be called for service.

Everyone enjoyed a well-appointed meal. The Crane courtier and the group’s Scorpion courtier hit it off upon learning both had the same aversion to dirt and uncleanliness. Donoha sama managed to pique the interest of the Scorpion bushi by asking if they could spar in the morning since his cousin had been called away by the Fortunes. He tried to up the ante by baiting him into an actual duel. However, that idea was denied by the young governor. Then he launched into his tales!

The creation of Mittsu Tamashi, traveling Rokugan, the journey back, making history being the only other person to make an Eight-Man-Cut! Following it up with joining the Emperor’s Gift, saving Matsu Mayumi san in Shiro Akodo, the Battle of the Emerald Shades outside of Otosan Unchi. The travels and saving the Moshi shugenja on their gempukku. The numerous times facing the Oni of Remembrance. The liberation of Mori Kage Toshi, the murder investigation of Shiro Shiba. Clashing blades with a Kakita duelist and winning, plus the gifting of their kimono signifying their loss. Traversing Mori Kuroi and arriving in Kyuden Tonbo. Finally the tale of their travels in Meido and Gaki-do. Ending with saving of the miners and rebuilding Serpent’s Tail mine village.

For now, nothing was mentioned of the jade that had been found. That tale lasted well into the evening and everyone enjoyed the telling. Some of Donoha sama’s companions got to hear some events for the first time as they had not been present for everything. Upon returning to their building it was indeed furnished and none of their belongings had been touch, just as the young governor had promised. The Unicorn verified the missives were still there as Tetsuo san was let in by Taro san. He bore news there is suspicion about how the father of the acting governor passed away. Gunba san mentioned what he learned from the Water Kami and Donoha sama nodded, the game was afoot!

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 41

Posted on December 21, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Harmony

Before the group of Isawa Tamaki san, Otaku Gunba san, Shosuro Hanzo san, and Tetsuo san could enter the mine a snow storm blew in and it was decided they would wait for it to pass. Tetsuo san spoke with the villagers and it appears these storms happen, but typically don’t last much longer than half a day. The journey should be able to be attempted in the morning. It was agreed they would rest and go in the morning after having rice. Donoha used the storm as an excuse to focus on the forge and tools that would be needed. He received many hidden stares from the villagers, but no one questioned the Dragon as he wielded Chikai kodzuchi 誓い小槌 the Oath-hammer again and again.

It was dark and cloudy before Donoha sama turned for the night. On the morning of the 15th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}), Donoha sama and the group awoke to bowls of steaming rice and vegetables. In front of the Dragon was a letter from the Lion samurai.

To my esteemed cousin, Kitsuki Donoha
The Fortunes have spoken to me in a vision, compelling my steps to another path. I have departed in the quiet hours of the night, unwilling to burden you with farewell. Know that my absence is not born of doubt but of duty; the road ahead is mine alone to tread.
I entrust the jade sword to your care. Its weight is not merely in steel and stone but in the honor it represents. Guard it with all the vigilance that flows in our blood. Be resolute, for the journey will demand the strength of your heart and clarity of your mind.
When the winds carry the scent of spring blossoms once more, I trust the heavens will guide us to stand side by side again. Until then, may the Fortunes bless you with steadfast resolve, and may their protection shelter you from all ill tides.
Walk with honor, cousin.
Akodo Asahi

There were two other items left in there spot within the barracks. The jade katana, and Kitagawa-neko sama. The Dragon would realized that the cat would follow whomever held the jade katana. Tamaki san mentioned that Donoha sama was now his Yojimbo based on the agreement he had with Asahi sama. The Dragon nodded, mentioning he was welcome to take possession of the Katana but wearing such a weapon would invite its own share of issues.

Going back to the group Tamaki san follows the suggestions Donoha sama has given him. He will carry the Pickaxe of Fire, Gunba san will carry the Hammer of Earth, and Hanzo san would use two at different times. First they would make use of the Bell of Air to make the kami aware of their arrival and procession the the chamber holding the jade. Then they would switch to the Stone Mask of Water so they could see the kami. Tamaki san would set the Lantern of the Void in between everyone to illuminate the darkness.

Well, once the group entered the mine, Hanzo san did not just ring the Bell of air with its clapper made of stone. He made it a performance based on a dance he knew that used bells he referred to as the Dance of the Gentle Breeze. Music can vibrate the air, shake water, bounce off the earth, and even affect the flicker of fire burning air as food. Their knowledge of monk teachings is really rather impressive.

Donoha sama saw the entire thing as a familial dispute and suggested treating it that way. While they ventured forth he took command of the village and continued working alongside the peasants. Before the day officially began he led them in a very quick prayer to the kami of the mine and made it clear they would do so every day going forward. He would correct things quietly, but when praise was due he would make a big deal about it. The work on the village continue throughout the day. His constant companion because of the jade katana on his back was of course, Kitagawa-neko sama.

When they made their way into the chamber that had the opening to the jade. They setup their joint ritual to bring forth the Fire and Earth Kami. The Bell of Air and the Dance of the Gentle Breeze apparently helped. Both spirits arrived when the commune spell was performed by the Unicorn and the Phoenix.

Tamaki san gets the Kami to discuss their origins and how the jade was made. The visions were shared with everyone in the chamber. Gunba san then began to explain to the Kami that this gift of jade in such an unusual way is a gift from Osana-Wo the Fortune of Fire and Thunder. As this happened after a lightning strike where the veins were embedded into the mountains. Gold tied to the Fire Kami as a blessing and the same for iron to the Earth Kami. While this was happening Hanzo san performed a dance to try and convey unity to spirits that communicated in a visual medium of visions. He was very successful.

The amount of spiritual energy they had pushed into communing effectively with the Fire and Earth Kami was immense from Tamaki san and Gunba san. As they had successfully convinced the spirits of the gift that the Fortune of Fire and Thunder had granted to them. They in turn presented another unique and astounding gift. In the smallest, slowest, earthquake ever seen in the history of Rokugan. Shards of obsidian began to exit the cave and make a path of shards as wide as the two shugenja were sitting on the ground! Yet none of the shugenja could feel the curse of Onnotangu! Gunba san conveyed thanks and appreciation alongside Tamaki san.

Back in the village of the Serpent’s Tail Mine the Dragon was organizing the people into groups. Having their morning prayer at the shrine and then split off to work on the well, shrine, finish removing the building not being lived in down to their framework. Then it was fixing any of the frame work that could be salvaged. If salvaging was not an option they would use the old piece as a form of template to craft a replacement piece.

Every time they would finish a building frame, the Dragon stopped his work, came over and celebrated everyone on that team. It surprised them all when he’d list details he noticed and whom was responsible for each part! Apparently his observational skills were just as sharp as ever before. He was trying to get them to feel pride and confidence again. They needed hope that things could get better and finally they could really see the results of their labors.

Every building except for the warehouse the villagers were using and the barracks the samurai had been provided had functional frames and high pitched roofs to help with snowfall sliding off them. Troughs with crushed rocks from buildings torn down, and loose mine debris were made to catch the snow and then it would melt and run down the angle portions to a main trough that fed back to the water source of the village.

Donoha sama mentioned to Jiro san that the varying size of rocks would help act as a simple form of purification for the water. Small gardens were built between the buildings with troughs and holes were made so rain water could help grow some food to supplement the villagers. Never in his life had he been so happy to grow up where he did at Copper River Manor. He uttered several prayers throughout the day to various Fortunes for allowing him the chance and opportunity to help these people.

As the day was drawing to a close the shrine had both the fire and earth statues for the kami nearly put back together using wood scrap to frame the area and molten iron to fill in the cracks and provide support for the stone. Kintsugi was the High Rokugani term for gold joinery. Tetsutsugi or iron joinery was being used in the stonework for the kami statues.

Then Donoha sama would use gold joinery on some of the smallest pieces to repair the statues with both ores. Showing them to be more beautiful for the struggles, not in spite of them. Hopefully this thought process would seep into the villager minds and hearts. They’re stronger together, and can overcome problems by working as a team.

When the group of three samurai and one monk emerged from the mine they were surprised to realize how much time had actually passed. Tetsuo san had been mentioning how surprised and pleased he was in their success at calming the kami and helping them understand their purpose here. They had not completely decided how to deal with the jade discovery. They thought Donoha sama should come and see this himself.

They found the villagers mostly around the latrine which had been torn down and the Dragon was working on a large bar of iron at the forge. Tamaki san gathered his attention and he put his all his work down except for his smithing hammer. The group explained – in detail – what happened in the cave. The Dragon nodded and mentioned, upon hearing their suggestions, that miniature shrines should be constructed in the mine for the Bell of Air and the Lantern of the Void. The Hammer of Earth would go to the person working in the forge. The Pickaxe of Fire would go to the village headman, and the Stone Mask of Water would be kept in the shrine until needed.

He then asked Tetsuo to let Jiro san know he would be over to start the ceremony in a few minutes. When the monk nodded and headed over Donoha sama explained he was trying to become an Emerald Magistrate so he could take a more active role in helping the Empire. He needed his companions to know how amazing they are so he deliberately excluded himself from the investigations. This way Hanzo san could find reasons to call this world his home. Gunba san could grow from his normally quiet shell. Tamaki could expand his horizons learning and using his talents in possibly new ways.

They joined the villagers and Donoha sama requested the Pickaxe of Fire, officially proclaiming Jiro san the headman of the village. Then he spoke about the burning of the latrine as a way of shedding the old problems of the village. Tomorrow they would reconstruct it in another location and continue with the rebuilding efforts over all. Then he produced the infamous saki cup left with the group by his cousin. Explaining that it should be returned to Tetsuo san when they were done tonight. A festival began to commence with saki flowing freely for all that wished to partake.

Gunba san took a third of the left over kimono from the five that attempted to attack Donoha sama. Using it he cast his spell and fixed the last of the Inari fox statues for the shrine. After that was placed Tamaki san and he discussed topics with each other until the late evening. While Hanzo san and Donoha sama talked about his place in this world. The Scorpion considered it a blessing because someone they cared for deeply is alive in this Ningen-Do where they had passed in their version of Ningen-Do.

From the 16th through the 19th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}) they completely finished the shrine. Including a small iron statue of Osana-Wo affixed to two, curved iron poles from the rear corners of the shrine to just above the center of the shrine’s roof. Supported by shaped stone on the roof’s apex. Donoha mentioned his family had a similar structure and it allow lightning to strike the iron but leave the building safe. It was a gift from an Agasha scholar of the fortunes.

Other items that got accomplished were the opening of the well being repaired by Gunba san using a fourth of the spare five kimono. The latrine had been reconstructed farther away to make the village cleaner overall. The foxes found by the villagers, during the time Asahi sama was still in the village, had a small house built for them and they could come and go safely. Lastly, most of the other buildings had new walls. Donoha sama showed Tatsu san how to make and repair the tools of the mine. Donoha sama promised to have priests sent to help with the miniature shrines in the mine for the relics.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 40

Posted on December 11, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Compassion’s Conclusion, Corrective Consequences

The six villagers and Donoha sama made it quite the distance into the nearby forest. The Dragon was pointing out to Saburo san, his brother Taro san, and four other villagers, which trees he thought would needed to be felled and then hauled back. They had arrived at a small clearing not visible by a road but with heavy worn foot traffic. Donoha sama thought this must be a common location to get wood for mine supports and to burn. The chest with the missives for the Dragon Clan champion secured to his back with rope was not nearly as heavy as he thought it might be.

What caught his attention was the villagers all pulling from their packs katana in various stages of deterioration. Clearly these weapons had not been maintained well. Then they all turned to face him as Saburo san spoke, “This is where it ends for you Kitsuki san, just hand over the chest and we’ll use it to buy a new life for ourselves!”

Unfazed by the weapons and wielders, the Dragon just had a hard believing how stupid these peasants were. Five of the six looked like they had steeled themselves for a fight, yet Taro san looked hesitant and shaky in their resolve. No one here was an actual threat, but he remembered the lucky strike one peasant Lord Asako Takumi had employed nearly killed his cousin. Resting his hand upon Mittsu Tamashi he mentioned Hida Nagahide’s name and the silk-wrapped tsuka felt warm in his grip.

“Please tell me you all are not actually this stupid,” retorted the Dragon samurai lifting his hammer with his left hand while his right remained ready on the three souled katana. They droned on about how they are mistreated by the lords of the land and Donoha sama made a mental note to definitely visit Mountain’s Anvil Castle. He tried to find a peaceful solution, but one of the men rushed him hoping to catch him off guard. Their head was still sailing through the air as the Dragon mentioned it did not have to go this way.

The rest charged except for Taro san, until his brother cried out for him to quit being a coward. From Taro san’s perspective more heads kept flying into the air but he did as his brother commanded. Making the potentially worst swing with a katana in the history of the weapon. It was clear to the dragon he did not agree with these actions but did not want to dishonor his brother. Four heads were sailing through the air as red rain began to fall upon the stark white, snow covered, forest floor.

“Taro, step back and drop your sword if you wish to live today,” the words were the final bit of compassion Donoha had left. Being betray by those he tried to help, wearing the very kimono he had gifted to them. He deliberately had left the “san” off when he addressed the peasant boy. Taro san wisely follow the ultimatum as the Kitsuki delivered on the wishes of the others in granting them a new life. Saburo san’s head left their body, spinning and turning in the air. The thud came in a pair of noises as the first one had hit the ground in conjunction with Saburo san’s body.

“Are you making a statement Itoko-san?”

While Taro san was dropping to a kneeling position and prostrating himself in the snow. Donoha sama turned to the voice that spoke. Coming into the clearing was Asahi sama, Tamaki san, Gunba san, and Hanzo san. The Lion’s look and question was one of curiosity, while the others were far more stern, particularly the Unicorn and the Scorpion.

Hanzo san had his bow ready in case more of the villagers were hiding nearby. Donoha sama had Taro san gather the kimono of the fallen peasants. Prompting the Unicorn shugenja to ask him if he had beheaded the peasants to spare the kimono. The Dragon looked over and simply said, “Yes.”

Still very angry over the betrayal of this attack after everything his group had been doing for the peasants and their village. The Dragon had Taro san hold up one of the kimonos so he could wipe his blade on it. There wasn’t any blood to actually wipe off, the cuts and been so clean and precise that all of it was arrayed around him in the snow. A red bloom of death, gruesome art is normally the trade of the bushi, but with the help of the Crab soul in his sword. He was able to draw his own flower. The act of doing this was to psychologically drive home home how finished he was with being nice. One wrong step from anyone in the village and they could potentially all share the same fate.

When Donoha sama wonders out loud about where the villagers got the worn katana, it was Gunba san that asked if this was the first time the villagers had pulled a stunt like this? Taro san was tasked with gathering the six worn katana and wrap them up with the kimono. Donoha sama wondered if they did this before because of mistreatment at the hands of the daimyo for Mountain’s Anvil Castle? He did not voice his concerns at this time. He was beginning to trust Hanzo san’s fortune telling skills more and more. The group headed back to the Serpent’s Tail Mining village.

Upon their arrival everyone was gathered and kneeling in the presence of Tetsuo san, the monk of Shinsei. They approached the group expressing happiness that the four samurai were able to find their Dragon companion. Donoha sama stepped forward to address the crowd. Tamaki san tried to enhance his Dragon friend’s speech with fiery theatrics, as they had in the sake houses. This close to the mine, the Fire Kami would do nothing more than some sparks.

On the way back to the village Asahii sama had filled in Donoha sama about the items they found in the mine and the discovery of Jade! There was the bell which the Dragon explained was often used in signaling people throughout the mine with needed information. Then the stone head hammer with iron and gold ore veins running through it. Followed by the pickaxe with the elemental symbol for fire etched into it and matches the symbol on Tamaki san’s staff. Then came the stone mask that would allow its wearer to see through rock as though they were swimming in water. Lastly, there was the iron lantern with glass-like panels of crystal and jade!

Donoha sama was nurturing a guess about the items but had to deal with the village first. He stepped forward and addressed everyone with his full name, and that he came from Copper River Manor. This ccopper mine had been in his family for a long time. He was very familiar with miner’s work and metalworking, smelting, crafting the ore into works of art. However, his compassion had just run out with the attack that had been carried out against him.

He made it very clear that if anyone steps out of line he would be inclined to wipe out the village and get new workers to start over. Furthermore, they have one last chance to rebuild their lives and village. Taro san was to be allowed back into the village and no harm was to befall him for trying to honor his brother even though he clearly disagreed with him. The five kimono he had would be given to Jiro san to redistribute among the villagers as needed. The six katana would be kept in the house they were using. If there were any more katana in the village turn them over now or pay the price if found later.

Tatsu san and Jiro san moved to help Taro san with the items in question. Donoha gave rough assignments to the villagers. The group being sent out to cut the trees were also to bury the bodies. While done out of earshot from any of the samurai word spread about how proficient the Dragon courtier was with his katana. While he deliberately did not always acknowledge it, if a villager passed his line of sight they would bow quickly and hurry along.

When a moment presented itself, Donoha sama has Asahi sama test the “earth-hammer” on a rock and confirms his suspicion of these being nemurani of the Agasha when they found the shrine centuries ago. Now this part is Donoha sama’s best guess based on the evidence presented to him. It was likely revealed by some of the kami in the mine. In hopes the samurai would partake in stopping the fighting between the Earth Kami and Fire Kami over whom has rights to the jade that has appeared.

While Tamaki san and Donoha sama work on the shrine, Gunba is the one that managed to succeed in getting the Fire Kami to finally speak with him. While Donoha sama was not sure of what was offered it appeared to be one of the kimono gifted to the villagers. The spirits of fire said they were watching and to tread carefully but they would not interfere with the shrine’s reconstruction. This amazing turn of events allowed him to use another kimono to effect repairs on the four smaller Inari “fox” statues. Using the fire magic of the kami to returned them to a new state as though they had just been made.

While Gunba san retired to the barracks to meditate. Donoha sama asked his Lion cousin over and did something I never expected. He instructed him on how to chisel a hole in a column of wood so he could say he helped with the shrine’s construction. The hammer he allowed him to use was the same hammer he made his katana with, Chikai kodzuchi 誓い小槌 the Oath-hammer! According to our Dragon since the hammer never left his sight he had not broken the oath. I know what your thinking and he explained how he sleeps but that isn’t interesting to write about.

Watching his cousin work and talking with him allowed Donoha to see another opportunity for him to gain experience leading people. He explained that there ware plenty of villagers needing guidance about what to do. It wasn’t that they were lazy, but they needed direction and did not want to overstep or anger the samurai after this morning’s incident. The Dragon suggested it might be good practice for his cousin to treat them like soldiers and keeping the base camp clean and orderly.

The Lion heads out with a renewed sense of purpose and gathers anyone not engaged in a task and they begin on the warehouse clearing and then move to the latrine. This way sanitary conditions with waste can be addressed. During the clearing of the warehouse the come across a small group of foxes and the peasants are instructed to leave them be. While Donoha sama was not aware of them at this time, he had asked Tetsuo san about foxes in the mountains and was told it would be rare to see any this far north.

Now, I have not forgotten about our watchful courtier. While Gunba san meditates our Scorpion patrolled the village and kept a watchful eye on his companions and the villagers. It was far less about keeping everyone safe and far more about making sure if anyone in the village breathed the wrong direction. It would be the last breath they ever took.

After some time, Gunba san awakens or self-rouses from their trance. Having recovered some of their spiritual energy they entreat with the Fire Kami once more and learn things are going poorly in the cavern and they should work out the issue between the Earth and Fire Kami sooner than later. Gunba convinces Tamaki san to join him and when the Phoenix mentions they could use a courtier, Hanzo san offers to join them.

Tamaki san confers with Donoha sama, and the Dragon mentions the nemurani: the Bell of Air, the Hammer of Earth, the Pickaxe of Fire, the Mask of Water, and the Lantern of the Void. Offering suggestions about whom should use each one when dealing with the Kami. The mask he mentioned should go to Hanzo san this time so they can likely see the kami in question. He also wanted to know if the kami want the items left in the mine when they were done or to be kept safely at the shrine? With this information the group of the Unicorn, Phoenix, Scorpion, the Shinsei Monk get ready to depart as Donoha sama and Asahi sama stay work on the village.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 39

Posted on December 9, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Village of the Serpent’s Tail Mine

When Tetsuo san and Jiro san saw the group had found their spots within the large being gifted to them for the duration of their stay. The two mentioned a brief tour of the village. The group was lead around to the barracks where they were currently staying. Then the latrine area, which had collapsed, posing health risks. Next was the warehouse where the miners had moved into but it was damp and unusable for due to broken doors and roof leaks.

Followed up by the forge, with its rusted anvil and decaying tools. The miners were having a hard time maintaining tools or creating new ones. Donoha sama nodded his head quietly, but his face was poorly masking anger mixed with frustration. The scar on the left side of his face helped to mask it as he always appeared slightly perturbed or deep in thought brooding.

This led to the mineral and processing building. It was a mess of unusable workstations under collapsed beams. Jiro san mentioned they had a partial output of gold and iron buried underneath the beams, but not enough for the full delivery. Which left to last spot of the tour, a small shrine and tori gate to the local kami in ruins. no roof, shattered statues, and broken pillars. The miners had forgotten how important the spiritual side of things were as it was just a pit stop mention because they walked past it.

Having been into the spirit realms and knowing how real the kami are made this a hard sight for the samurai to see so casually disregarded. They headed back into their quarters, the barracks, and Jiro san began with an explanation of the history surrounding the mine. Tetsuo san was present but really only nodded in affirmation as lending support to the village headman’s words.

Jiro san continued with a story about how the former Dragon family of the Agasha discovered the mine searching for ore. Depending on whom tells the tale it was either iron ore or gold ore, but to their surprise they found both. When it was discovered how far the twisting veins of ore went into the earth. The peasant workers named the gold vein Miko and the iron vein Mako.

Donoha sama was really hoping to learn why the Agasha had left the clan. They were after all one of the founding families that followed the great kami Togashi. However, those questions would have to wait until they finished the tasks they had been assigned.

Jiro san continued on that the ore processed there is brought to Mountain’s Anvil Castle, before being sent out to the other lands. After some further discussion amongst the five samurai when the monk and the headman left. Donoha sama suggested a two pronged approach. He had the skills to rebuild the village and just needed additional hands, which the peasants could provide. The other four should be more than capable of exploring a mine.

If they encountered the angry kami they had two shugenja that could handle the issue. If they ran into physical trouble both Asahi sama and Hanzo san were capable in a fight. Both could react to a developing situation and protect the shugenja as yojimbo. What Donoha sama did not explain to anyone was that he had a few private motivations.

He wanted Asahi sama to get time leading the group and working with people with very different backgrounds. This knowledge would only aid him when he became a general and dealt with interpersonal conflicts. Hanzo san would need knowledge when he met his superiors of this world’s Scorpion clan. This should give him the chance to gather secrets. Gunba san had a withdrawn he felt needed to get out more. Tamaki san was as inquisitive as he was. This would be a chance to scratch that itch. Finally both Asahi sama and Tamaki san were becoming great investigators and fostering talented teammates was always a good idea.

As the group was settling back in to tackle the mine in the morning. Donoha sama realize some safety issues and shared some tips about safety with the group going into a mine. Hanzo san began to talk with Gunba san and Tamaki san regarding a quick trip to the ruined shrine for another look. It was almost kabuki like how quickly the three of them left as a group.

While the three would be eventually joined by Asahi sama, Donoha sama spoke with Jiro san about using some of the men to repair the shrine with him. Next, he asked about lanterns and rope for the mine to traverse it. Upon finding out the mine’s current condition he then asks for Tetsuo san’s help in handing out all of the kimonos he had been gifted by Hoto san. I think it speaks to the growing minimalist within Donoha sama and his penchant for the virtue of compassion. He did not want to keep such expensive garments when he was unsure of how Hoto san had acquired the money to get them. He now only possessed two fine kimonos. One was granted to him by Akodo Tozawa sama and the other was presented by his cousin, which is also on the cover of Book Four – In Defense of Honor.

Donoha sama explained to Tetsuo that if someone is taking upon themselves the position, even temporarily, of lord over an area. Then they had better be prepared to provide for their subordinates. While feeling his offering was meager, and to be clear to the reader, it was not. Each kimono was worth several koku, it was likely more money than they had ever seen in their lives.

Once that was completed he bid everyone a good evening and headed back to the barracks they had been set up in. On the way though he was called out to by Hanzo san and asked to come over to the shrine. During Gunba san’s departure to the shrine he had taken over responsibility for watching the missives from the Emerald Ambassadors. Upon arriving at the ruined shrine he could see they had been busy at clearing out debris and snow.

While Donoha sama had been away the two shugenja had tried to entreat with the Kami of Earth and Fire, only to be rebuffed for their efforts. That left consorting with Kami of Air, Water, and Void to help sort out the broken statues to the Kami of Fire and Earth. It was Tamaki san that aided in this endeavor, using their magical incantations to move the broken statue pieces into an order the Dragon could figure out how to put back together using a method similar to kintsugi or gold joinery. Only this time he would use iron and then apply the gold using the mix metal technique of shakudo.

On the morning of the 14th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}), the group of Dragon, Lion, Phoenix, Unicorn, and Scorpion found steaming rice set next to where they sleep along with some small amount of boiled vegetables. They ate and the four heading into the mine made their way down while the Dragon got dressed in their simplest kimono and hakama. Using rope from the miners to perform tasuki gake to wrap their shins and kimono sleeves out of the way. The next half an hour of the day (OOC: Rokugan only has a twelve hour day, so 60 minutes) was having few villagers help him cut down trees from a nearby grove. Then drag them back so they could begin repairs.