Author: Shanzi Matsu

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.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 38

Posted on November 25, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Truth in Observation

As Shosuro Hanzo san went through the rote and ritual of their divination. The others gave him space as they set up their camp for the evening. The plan according to Tetsuo was to head out in the morning. Akodo Asahi sama was preparing dinner for everyone when our Scorpion companion finished with their divination ritual and packed everything up and made their way over to the camp.

They explained that they could feel kami, one, perhaps more. They were in a cold and dark place. Whatever problem they were facing the group should find a way to help. Soon our group will run across an unfortunate place and if we try and rush things we’ll create unfortunate ripples for ourselves. Then there was something about a small village very near the High House of Light. We should absolutely stop their and bring calm to some problem that appears to be non-violent.

Donoha sama continues to wonder if perhaps Hanzo san started their life in their alternate Ningen-do as a monk and somehow became adopted into the Scorpion clan and trained as a courtier. The reason for his line of thought is that the Brother of Shinsei, Tetsuo san, explained that their were some problems reported at the Serpent’s Tail mine not to many days travel ahead and their true purpose was to report to Togashi Hoshi sama how the five samurai dealt with the situation! He then shared the instructions from the Dragon Clan Damiyo was – I will be here when you arrive, no need to rush.

Togashi Hoshi sama alluded to having familial relations with the Scorpion clan, perhaps his mother. Donoha sama did not wish to broach the topic further in order to be polite and respectful. So far every interaction he’s had with the Scorpion clan, regardless of being negative or positive, has drastically altered fate in their favor. Hanzo san appears to be the next one to provide critical information allowing for a positive outcome it seems.

The meal was delicious but Tetsuo san ate and then retired to a small grouping of trees to rest and meditate. Despite offers being made of letting him sleep in one of the tents with the samurai. The monk mentioned this would be a good way to test himself and his training. The Dragon informed everyone he would be heading off to train, but not with bokken this time. He’d learned some new things about the sword he made in the spirit realms. He was going off to train with it so combat would go smooth rather than surprising himself.

The Scorpion followed after a fashion and watch the practice from a safe distance. At the beginning of what appeared like bushi studying a new school technique there were emerald green flashes coming from both sides of the blade. Their keen archers eyes could make out the marks after repeated flashes when he would reset from a technique. One side read “Mittsu Tamashi” or “Three Souls” in low Rokugani. The other was a bit longer spelling out “Itami wa chie to hikikae ni sa reru” or “Pain is traded for wisdom” in low Rokugani.

Some of the movements the Dragon practiced reminded him of how the Lion fought, others seemed to be training how to defend a person or a space from multiple attackers. Then the came the one with brutal bursts of speed where he appeared to strike twice with each swing. When the Scorpion began to chat with the Dragon he did not seem to mind the added complexity of maintaining a conversation while trying out techniques. When he finished practicing both of them turned in for the night.

On the 9th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}), the group was making their way along a trail when they came across a group of 8 peasants. The closer they got the more hurt and haggard they looked. Donoha sama had been leading Yukiabo while he had Hanzo san on the horse and Tetsuo on its other side. The Dragon had everyone pause as he approached the group waving his hand and calling out. The group moved to the side with the mountain and he approached. They were clearly trying to let the samurai pass by but this Dragon was a Kitsuki.

Intrigued by what got them in this state, he squatted and asked which one spoke for the group. Tatsu san was the one that spoke up and mentioned they had come from the Serpent’s Tail Mine. Problems had begun occurring in the mine. According to the Dragon, he was told they had seeking help to fix the problem but two days back two of their companions had been taken in the night. It seems the assailants match the description of yeti.

Donoha sama engaged his group and Tetsuo acted as the mediator between the samurai and the peasants. It seems they were worried their attempt to get help could be seen as abandoning their duties. Hanzo san was quick to point out that depending on how one looks at it that could very well mean a swift death at their lord’s hand even if help was found. There was a tense discussion between the two courtiers as each took opposite stances on the issue. The Dragon made it clear he would see it as seeking help and make sure the lord of the area saw it in the same light. The Scorpion apologized if he had offended the Dragon, but Donoha sama told him anyone not willing to listen to an opposing point of view was unwise. He reiterated that he valued Hanzo san’s opinions.

Otaku Gunba san had stayed back guarding the box with the missives from the Emerald Ambassadors. While Isawa Tamaki san moved up to heal them with the Lion assisting him. Next, Akodo Asahi sama made rice for everyone with boiled beans and root vegetables. Tetsuo san made sure to convey this in a manner to let them know they had succeeded in finding help. We made it clear we would go back and find either their companions, or at least confirmation of their death. Then the samurai would move on to the Serpent’s Tail Mine and help there as well.

It took about a day and a half to reach the ambush site on the 11th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}). During that time Donoha sama has taken some of the extra padded kimono he had for layering in colder weather and gifted one to a miner. Mint green with dark green sashiko quilting this was still worth a few koku. To another he passed an obi that they could wrap around their face to keep the snow out. At the location it was decided the Phoenix and the Dragon would be the ones to descend over the side into the snowy mist in search of the yeti and the missing members, Shige san and Yohei san.

Just before they were ready to descend Tamaki snapped their fingers and mentioned they had this covered. They removed an ofuda charm from their hat and cast the spell they refer to as Embrace of Kenro-Ji-Jin to swim through the rock! To say the miners were stunned to see him leave and return from the earth was an understatement.

They were able to find one of the arms of the miners and returned with the unfortunate news of their confirmed deaths. Time was taken to build to graves with piled stones and each peasant was given time to pray at them as they began to grieve the loss. Tamaki san offers rice & candles at each pile of stones with names on ofuda charms anchored tot he rocks. Gunba san honors them in the way of the Unicorn, before returning to the missive box and trading out with Asahi sama. Hanzo san rang their bells for the souls to find their way to Emma-O’s gate, and Donoha sama prays to Emma-O.

It was another two days before arriving at the mine’s village on the 13th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}). The only reason everyone was far more hearty upon arriving was Otaku Gunba san repeatedly using Inari’s Blessing to create food and drink. Once the group got close the miners and Tetsuo offered to move on ahead and get the village ready for the samurai’s arrival. Consent was given to do so and when the five samurai made it to the village it was the Hour of the Goat or Doji in High Rokugani (OOC: 2-4 PM).

The group met Jiro san, the village’s foreman for the mine and the miners were clearing out a large bunk house for the samurai to use. The Dragon knew it was useless to stop them, so he just made sure no one was going without shelter. Preferring to carry his own items in he tasked Tatsu san with putting together his collapsible sword stand. Everyone began to settle in before they learned about the history of the Serpent’s Tail Mine.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 37

Posted on November 18, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Road Back to Ningen-dō

Donoha sama had long thought the souls belonging to owners of the blades that make up Mittsu Tamashi were inside the blade already. It had not occurred to him that what he’d managed to perform was creating a tether to those souls. A link to them in Gaki-do! In some ways he was destined to have to journey to Gaki-do in order to save them and bring them forth from the punishment of the realm of the hungry dead.

The three shadowy souls of Hida Nagahide san, Shiba Tsukasa san, and Akodo Chun san fell in line behind the Dragon courtier as musical bells began to ring out. Donoha sama was becoming convinced that one of Hanzo san’s relatives or close family friends had been a monk in his world’s Brotherhood of Shinsei. Their knowledge of rites typically done by monks whom focused on rituals for points in one’s life seemed prolific to put a word to it.

They all returned in mass to the shrine where Donoha reverently replaced the Karmic Key. After bowing in a show of respect to his part in helping the five samurai defeat the Queen of Hunger. He retreated to allow the others to make their feelings known. They have, after all, saved the process of reincarnation! Hanzo continued their performance with the bells used by monks to help guide souls to their place in reincarnation. Normally done from Ningen-do or Rokugan depending upon how the scholar wishes to describe the world.

Outside the shrine’s entry the mist parted to form a column of golden light. They were being granted passage back to Meido. With the constant echo of bells helping the shadowy souls find their place in a train behind the heroic samurai. Once everyone returns to the realm of waiting the one known as Tenth Kami appeared before them once more. The shadowy souls immediately began to find their way back into the line to be weighed again by Emma-O, the fortune of Death. This time their suffering in Gaki-do would be weighed as well and their chance at reincarnation seemed almost a given!

When the Tenth Kami turning their attention back to the group. The Lion bushi was knelt on one knee. The Dragon courtier in a kneeling bow with his head low and hand in gesture of contemplation. The others had deferred their gazes respectfully, and three lone souls stood behind Donoha sama watching him.

“Kitsuki Donoha san why have these three souls decided to remain with you?”

To be addressed directly by one of the Great Kami is a rarity for anyone in Rokugan since the founding of the empire. The Dragon courtier refused to touch his sword in the presence of the Tenth Kami when he answered.

“I believe these are the souls of Shiba Tsukasa san, Hida Nagahide san, and Akodo Chun san. Either their blades failed them and broke during their time as bushi samurai, or they failed their lord in their service. I was gifted each of their katana and used it to make the katana at my side, Mittsu Tamashi. I wanted to serve the empire by making swords that could be used to redeem the souls of samurai that had fallen. To give them another shot at reincarnation.”

The Tenth Kami spoke, “They have that chance and have decide to stay and serve you within the blade. I shall bind them to that fate they have chosen.”

With a raise of their hand each of the souls took the shape they had in life. Constructed by an outline of tiny pieces of light as though drawn in the dark sky. Then they became a bright mist that was absorbed into the handle of Mittsu Tamashi. Each time making it glow before settling down.

The Tenth Kami continued, “You have all done a service to every soul here and ones having gone through reincarnation. I will grant a boon to speak with a soul that has passed on.”

The first to choose was Akodo Asahi sama and they chose to speak with their father, Akodo Isoroku. Once their soul took form the two were allowed to wander off and have a private conversation. Hanzo and Donoha talk about the fact he came from a different history. Without meaning to the Dragon mentioned the Emperor had a vision and put the Emperor’s Gift Caravan together for forestall or alter that fate. According to Shosuro Hanzo san that moment is the event that led this world in a better direction than his.

Isawa Tamaki san asked to speak to the original Thunder Isawa sama themself! Only to be informed they had gone through reincarnation and were on Ningen-do actively at this moment! The Phoenix shugenja then asked for a private conversation with the Tenth Kami after everyone else was done, and was granted their request. I wish I knew what they asked but alas somethings must remain private.

Thinking about what he wanted Donoha sama missed what both Otaku Gunba san and Shosuro Hanzo san asked for. He gathered they seemed happy, or maybe relieved at the outcomes of those discussions. The Scorpion courtier seemed to think this world was a blessing to him now. The Unicorn shugenja seemed a bit more contemplative about his their result.

Donoha thought about the people they could talk to that were dead and decided to try and make this a gift. He asked if he could pass this gift to the Ikoma. He tries to get a boon for the Ikoma family daimyo, Ikoma Anakazu sama. Acknowledging how much the Ikoma damiyo has done for him in the last year he asked the Tenth Kami if such a boon was possible. The answer was that it may be possible for them to grant such a desire. He would have to pray when he was near the person and hopefully the Tenth Kami would hear the prayer.

After all conversations were had, the group headed back into the mist and became one with it again as they were once greeted by the Maiden of the Void, Chiasa. Donoha and she shared a brief moment, although this author is sure it felt much longer to the Dragon than it was. She told him their would be a time in the future they could be together but her duties would not allow it yet. At the mention of possibly infringing on her duty to her cause or lord. He stilled his spirit and apologized for he would not wish to cause her any harm. It was a look shared of two people in love. The mist swirled as she sent them home to Ningen-do.

Back in the Dragon lands each of them came to on the 4th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}), 1123. Three days had past and Togashi Hoshi sama had been caring for them and their mounts while their souls had been away. As everyone was beginning to realize how hungry they were for not eating for three days! Donoha sama and Gunba san shared a brief look about the journey. The Unicorn wandered off to the horses is soon joined by Donoha as he goes to groom Yukiabo, his personal horse. When he asked if the Unicorn shugenja was alright, Gunba san assured him it was nothing of import. The Dragon courtier leaned back and rubbed his eye apologizing for snow getting in it.

Togashi Hoshi welcomes us back as Donoha sama returns. Asahi sama begins cooking food with provisions. They are so talented at cooking one wonders if they had not cooked for a Hantei in a past life. The Dragon and Scorpion courtiers play a game of Go to pass the time. Donoha won the game, and its been a fair amount of time since the game they played in the Valley of the Centipede in Moshi no Machi against the Mantis captain, Yoritomo Sekimoto san.

As everyone was eating the food Donoha sama praises his cousin’s cooking alongside Hanzo san. After their food was done the Scorpion acted out one of the classic tales done normally in kabuki or noh mask theatre. They are an accomplished actor and everyone enjoyed the tale. Tamaki wanted to try and meditate during most of the meal. even going as far with magic of the kami to pull a flaming log up to him through the air to keep warm. Eventually, the log was not enough and they had to leave their spot they had claimed on a rock column. Even Gunba returned when the group was given our next destination on the way to the High House of Light.

The group was informed there is a shrine on a lake to Fukuro-kujin, the fortune or Wisdom and Mercy. There we will meet our next guide, Tetsuo san. Donoha sama asked about a few details of the shrine. Togashi sama confirmed and the Kitsuki nodded that he’d seen the shrine before but it was never on his way to or from Copper River Manor where he was born. The group decided that since the day was only coming upon highsun they begin their journey with haste. They packed up being rested, refreshed, and fed most importantly.

As they began to travel Asahi broke into song several times with amazing renditions of ballads heard around the Empire! Their voice is a joy to listen to, clearly another past life coming through this very talented samurai. Donoha sama gathered a thick branch and began to carve it in his lap on Yukiabo with his chisels and smithing hammer. He finished it on the following day of the 5th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}), 1123. He presented a three compartment stackable inro box to be worn from their obi. A scorpion was carved upon both its sides and stretched over the three compartments.

During the trek the group shared a number of shared moments between the group. When they arrived at the shrine on the 8th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}). Both the Lion and Dragon were inspired to come up with a haiku which I will record below. Donoha’s Haiku:
Quiet mind at peace.
Peaceful heart, a knowing smile.
Wisdom’s gentle light.

Asahi’s Haiku:
Cold Snow Falls So Clear
A Statue’s Silent Gazing
Mercy and Wisdom

Tetsuo introduced themselves to the group. Then offered them a chance to visit and pay their respects. The Lion and the Dragon bow and kneel at the stairs to offer their prayers. The Scorpion took some wonderful incense to burn at the alter of the fortune. After their prayers the Phoenix offered some of theirs as well. The Unicorn took the most time but he carved a token to add to the altar. They did a job that made them feel the Fortune would be happy with the offering. As they came out Shosuro Hanzo was beginning a divination by the nearby lake.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 36

Posted on November 10, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

The Queen of Hunger

Shosuro Hanzo san performed a divination to see if he could find a way to remove the Karmic Key from the pedestal. It matched the same result of Donoha’s investigation. There did not appear to be a non-supernatural way to take the disc off. What they did learn was that the stone was different but fused in a way masons were unable to do.

Isawa Tamaki san offered to use their spell, Reads the Essence, on the disc and they were granted a vision. In it they learned the disc and the pedestal are fused using the four elemental kami with the first being air, followed by earth, fire, and water. They explained upon coming out of their vision they would need to figure out how to unlock it to remove the disc.

Gunba san and Tamaki san discuss the options and the use of the spell, Reflections of Pan Ku. Tamaki san was trepidatious because their was no confirmation yet this disc was the Karmic Key. Being in another spirit realm how would their magics behave? Donoha sama mentions to Tamaki san to practice Yu (Courage) and do the thing because they’re afraid not because it is safe and easy. Tamaki san thanks the Dragon for their wisdom and performs the spell. The Phoenix confirms Hanzo san’s divination.

Asahi sama and Donoha sama acted as guards during this time. Gunba san shares the concern of Tamaki san that this may not be the Karmic Key. They begin discussing his concerns and it is decided to try and entreat the kami in the reverse order of the seal. The Phoenix shugenja begins to communes with the Water Kami, via a bowl and a waterskin he keeps for such purposes. The water becomes a misty cloud, but to the Phoenix they saw the kami before them. The Water Kami shows how to unlock the key. When asked about if they were forced to perform the sealing they said they were made offerings and accepted to help in exchange for the tributes paid unto them. Tamaki san asked if they would help and they said they would once the other three elementals kami had found a host. The Water Kami chose Tamaki san as their vessel.

Otaku Gunba san goes for the Fire Kami next and Asahi sama donates some cherished letters he swore he could re-create as an offering. With their questions they confirm two important things. One, the disc is the dormant state of the Karmic Key. Two, they are doing the ritual correctly to unlock it. Their next question explains that if the Queen of Hunger continues to devour the souls of Gaki-do then they will have the power to move to other realms and destroy the karmic cycle of reincarnation! Death would become permanent there would be no chance to redeem your soul in your next life! The Fire Kami agrees to help if Asahi sama is their vessel. The Lion agrees and is surrounded by a swirling mote of flame.

There was some talk about whom the last two vessels will be. Gunba san felt he would be a sure fit for earth. A few thought Donoha would be the one to represent air. The Dragon thought and suggest they would like choose Hanzo san for being more dexterous than he was, despite the surprise from his cousin. When looking for actual earth to use, because the ground around him was being adjusted mystically to prevent a state of madness from setting in. Donoha sama offers up his last finger of jade to the Unicorn shugenja in order to invoke the Kami of Earth. The jade dissolves into a fine grain jade sand and they swirls into a cloud. The Earth Kami was quite pleased with such an offering and chooses Gunba san for their vessel.

The Phoenix shugenja then performs the commune for the Air Kami using a deep breath and then exhaling to offer the wind of their body. The first question informed them and later shared with the group. They will need to put the Karmic Key inside of the Queen of Hunger to prevent them from using foul, dark magics against the five samurai. The kami spirit is willing to help if Hanzo is the vessel and the Scorpion agrees.

There was some trepidation on how to apply the kami spirits to the stone pedestal. Donoha sama suggested everyone to stand around the pedestal and take their left arm. Then use it to touch the person to their left forming a connection between them all. Next, take their right hand and place on the pedestal in reverse order: Water, Fire, Earth, and Air. This process works and the disc transforms back into its oval shape with engravings denoting the cosmos upon it!

Stepping in between the four Donoha takes the key gently in both hands and lifts it free from the pedestal. The others then broke their connections to the pedestal to gaze upon what the group had suffered for. When Tamaki san asked to cast the Reflections of Pan Ku upon it the Dragon handed him the Karmic Key and once his hand let go. The artifact yanked Tamaki san’s arm straight down as it made a whopping thud into the ground! Donoha sama could lift it as though it was light as a wooden tray. When they let Asahi sama try the result was the same. Apparently, the Dragon was the one virtuous enough to wield it.

To help the Phoenix shugenja, Donoha sama sits and allows Tamaki san to cast Reflections of Pan Ku upon the Karmic Key. Tamaki san described it as a religious experience, as he saw the history of the Karmic Key! It’s taken on many forms throughout history, but without it the cycle of reincarnation will stop! Only Tamaki san has seen this and managed to keep his sanity. Afterwards, the the group took one more rest before heading out to face the Queen of Hunger.

They left the temple and came upon further corruption of Gaki-Do. Hidden from driving our heroes mad with the illusion affecting their sight. Chiasa’s power to commune with the kami for such a boon is powerful indeed. Coming upon a valley in the shape of a circle as the mists parted to reveal the battlefield. Across the way was a gigantic, but vaguely humanoid shape of shadow. Dark and wispy, thick tentacles of shadow writhed forth from its back and limbs! Eyes made of burning hate, a mouth that exuded a bone chilling breath as though it could still the warmth that was your soul.

Otaku Gunba san prepared everyone with the spell Courage of Seven Thunders. The two Dragon and Lion cousins realized they could not defend against the Queen of Hunger’s physical strikes effectively. Decided it would have to be a full on attack. Tamaki first cast the Embrace of Kenro-Ji-Jin upon Hanzo san. Thus, granting them the ability to swim through the ground and get in closer with the bow and the jade arrows. Next, the Phoenix shugenja cast the Fires of Purity spell upon Asahi sama. Wreathing him in flame to aid in his attack and rebuke strikes upon him with the pure flame of the kami’s blessing!

The battle began with the Lion and the Dragon rushing across the valley. The Unicorn shugenja began a spell called the Tomb of Jade which takes significant concentration to invoke. The Queen of Hunger attempted to invoke fear among them but the spell of Otaku Gunba held firm! Tamaki san began to move in with a Jade Strike spell as the Queen turned their wrath on Asahi sama by causing him to begin turning to stone! Jade flashed overhead from wherever Hanzo san was shooting from! Their shriek from the impact was made worse when the Dragon brought Mittsu Tamashi down upon one of the shadow tentacles while holding the Karmic Key in their left arm.

Tamaki san raced to Asahi sama’s side and pulled the magic from the Lion unto himself using a spell of Void origin! Donoha sama was able to press the Karmic Key against the creature causing it to wail in paint momentarily pause its movement. When the Lion was able to join the fray wielding the ancient jade katana suffused in fire as well! One could have called him the divine judgement of Tengoku! With their flaming strikes they began to tear into the Queen of Hunger! Coordinating with the direction of his Dragon cousin. Asahi sama was able to allow an opening for Donoha sama to use his training with Kaze-Do martial arts and improvised weapons to push the Karmic Key inside the Queen of Hunger!

The shrill howl of pain could be felt in every bone of the samurai present! In what seemed like an explosion of shadow, with no shockwave to follow. The Queen was shriveled up and pulled inside the as though consumed by it, and set back into the karmic cycle from whence it came. The exploded droplets of shadow began to take forms briefly before being freed and set back to the karmic cycle once again. All the consumed souls were being freed not just from the Queen, but from Gaki-Do! As this realization settled upon those witnessing it, or being freed from magics of the Queen. Three droplets of shadow landed in front of the Dragon as they took human form. In unison they began to bow.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 35

Posted on November 2, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Once More Unto the Breach

They turned as more of the mist pulled away to reveal a set of stairs. Slowly they began to ascend them as time did not hold the same meaning in the realm of the hungry dead. Donoha sama was worried about exhausting the kami or asking for to much help. However, he stayed quiet so as not to interrupt the conversation between Otaku Gunba san and Shosuro Hanzo san. In time they reached to top of this stairway to a cut, stone laden, landing. Before them was a temple that one could suspect held the Karmic Key inside.

Slowly, from the sides of the inner courtyard and the mist floating on the ground six more creatures appeared. Two of them looked like the shadow samurai many of the group had faced before. Then they were joined by three identical creatures of this realm of the hungry dead. The five samurai moved quickly to deal with this new challenge.

Shouro Hanzo san moved into and up the tower on the group’s right hand side to provide cover fire. Donoha san was not sure if he tried to throw a handmade explosive of some kind at the enemy. The throw seemed to go poorly and created a small cloud of smoke as he made his way inside and up the tower. Donoha sama posted up in the entrance closer to the left tower, while his Lion cousin did the same by the right tower. Gunba san tried to stay just behind the front line ready to support as Tamaki san began to unleash the fires of the kami upon the creatures!

As the world around the creatures continued to burn in spiritual wrath, they charged forward at the Dragon and the Lion. Trained as a courtier whom specialize in investigations Donoha has never been shy to engage in combat. It shows how brave their soul is to face off against the hungry dead in their own spirit world. This also showed the difference in training for a bushi and a courtier. Asahi sama was able to fare better due to their training from the Akodo school! Both of them were hurt as they took the brunt of the assault, but the Lion lived up to their name with the amount of strikes they were able to dish out!

Tamaki san was able to control the movements of the enemy with repeated uses of the area wide fire magic. Gunba san would make targeted attacks at the creatures, as would Hanzo san using the reclaimed jade arrows. One would think they would shatter on the ground but it would seem Donoha sama is a competent knapper. It was not lost on the Scorpion that the hard ground was an illusion from the maiden of the void, Chiasa san. The ground still felt like stepping on someone’s stomach, which Hanzo san was certain contributed to their ability to recover such treasures as these.

During the fight they learned that the hungry dead could pass through the structures but not each other, nor the five samurai. Then they engaged the trio of new beasts and realized that their strikes could ignore the armor they wore! Donoha sama and Gunba san ended up on one side fighting one of the armorbane creatures and dealing with laying low its cohorts. Tamaki san and Asahi sama engaged the other two. Outnumbered at first they stayed focused and everyone worked as a team to bring the threat to a conclusion!

It was then that they noticed a light coming from the temple. The glow had likely been subdued until the threat guarding it had been dealt with. The group of samurai saw the Karmic Key within the doorway of the temple. However, they set down to rest by the towers they had won their victory from. The Dragon, Lion, and even the Unicorn had been hit hard during the skirmish with creatures that were stronger and outnumbered them. Yet the champions Emma-O mentioned they were won twice against the odds. They bandaged their wounds and felt Chiasa san’s magic keep them from needing food. The battle with the Queen of Hunger lay ahead, yet this uncommon group held firm to the task they had been entrusted to perform.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 34

Posted on October 27, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

A Starlight Quest

Donoha sama described being pulled into and through the Void into the sprit realm of Meido. The land where the dead go before they meet Emma-O the Fortune of Death. Initially the new group of five samurai could not see each other or much of anything. A voice spoke to them explaining a problem of a karmic nature. The Dragon could tell to voice of the woman he loved anytime he heard it. The group soon knew the love of the Dragon as their guide and quest giver.

Composed of stars and light against what appeared to the the black of night or the Void. Hard to be certain if one or the other, perhaps both. As they focused upon her they became little orbs of light that could discern each other. If not directly “see” because they did not have eyes in this form.

How Chiasa san and Togashi Hoshi sama were apparently working together was a question the Dragon wanted to ask but weighed it as selfish compared to the task laid before them. There is an issue within the spirit realm of Gaki-do wear the hungry dead wander. It threatens the balance of the karmic cycle. In order to set the spirit realms back to the way they function. The group must go to the Gate of the Dead and convince the Fortune Emma-O to get passage to Gaki-do and retrieve the Karmic Key to defeat the Queen of Hunger.

Chiasa san warns everyone she has cast a spell to make us see Gaki-do in a manner different than how it would truly appear. To keep from possibly going mad and breaking the group’s minds! While the group asked after points of the challenge before them. Donoha sama made sure she knew her father was doing well, and if she felt safe where she was. She thanked him and assured him she was safe where she was. After she left the group to proceed their march toward the gate. Donoha reminded his Lion cousin of the time he healed Asahi sama in the cave with the stairs. A beam of what appeared to be stars shown down and he was completely healed when the bandage was applied. His cousin acknowledged the memory and Donoha sama mentioned that Chiasa san whom just left was the one he was talking about.

The group had been told about finding the Tori (Gate) of the Dead. Apparently, every path one could take would lead to the gate and the speed at which you would find it had to do with the purity of your soul. After moving through what appeared to them as a barren wasteland they found lines of people filing into a common direction. Everyone in the group had slightly different ideas on how to approach this but Donoha sama simply walked up to one and got in line with the souls of the dead.

When Gunba san, Tamaki san, and Hanzo san looked upon the faces of those in the line they found something unsettling. They had no face to speak of! The legends about this spirit world mention the wiping of your old identity to make way for your reincarnation and that was the closest guess the group could make about what was happening here.

Upon reaching the Tori (Gate) of the Dead the five samurai approached and stood before the throne of Emma-O, Fortune of the Dead. Once proper reverence was given to the fortune sitting upon their throne. They queried the group about why the living were traveling where they should not be? When they gave their explanation about the Karmic Key and the Queen of Hunger, the Fortune of Death’s tone changed to a more pleasant one. They welcomed the champions and bid them pass one and meet the one that would grant them entry into Gaki-do.

Donoha sama said that this part has to be vague. In part because the name of the individual they met was stricken from the imperial records by the first Hantei. This was told to them by the one they met! The person guarding the entry into Gaki-do was the tenth and youngest child of the Sun and Moon! The Tenth Kami, according to an excerpt from the Tao of Shinsei.

“Of the nine children of the Sun and Moon; myself, Doji, Akodo, Shinjo, Hida, Togashi, Bayushi, Shiba, and Fu Leng…” began the Emperor.
“No,” said Shinsei”
“No?” my brother asked quizzically.
“The Sun and Moon had ten children, though you will never know your youngest brother.”

The Tenth Kami stated he would only let pure souls through the gate to Gaki-do to prevent their corruption by Jigoku’s taint. The group’s souls were tested and Donoha sama was the first to pass with Asahi sami passing just after him. The other three began to fade out of existence! The Tenth Kami asked the Dragon and the Lion if they would be willing to bear the others karmic burdens. When they do the others become solid once more.

The Tenth Kami asked if we need anything before entering Gaki-do. Donoha sama was not sure if his sword, Mittsu Tamashi 三つ魂, the Three Soul katana, would be able to harm creatures that you would normally use jade or crystal for. His Lion cousin had that jade katana now, and both the Unicorn and Phoenix shugenja had access to the kami spirits. Tamaki san also had Hisuitsume 翡翠爪, the Jade Talon, that Donoha sama had made for him. Hanzo san was without a weapon he could discern that would harm the creatures they were anticipating meeting!

Donoha sama asked for a weapon to be provided to Shosuro Hanzo san so they could defend themselves. The Tenth Kami said he did not have one to provide him. However, if they needed time to make one he could halt time for a bit around him to allow for such a task! Hanzo san mentioned being very good with a bow and between the Dragon and Lion they had enough fingers of jade to allow Donoha sama to craft eight jade arrows.

As the Dragon began to knap the jade using the edge of the head and handle of Chikai kodzuchi 誓い小槌 the Oath-hammer. Asahi sama began to sing song that somehow lasted the length of indeterminate time Donoha sama needed to make the eight jade arrows. I will list the song below.

In the mountains high and old
Kami’s whisper soft and bold
Waves of time in silence roll
Mysteries of nature unfold

Lanterns flicker in the shrine
Ancient spirits intertwine
Moonlit path our lives align
With hearts a humble sign

Oh Kami hear our song
Guide us where we belong
Your breath makes us strong
Oh Kami hear our song

Cherry blossoms kiss the breeze
Life and death a sacred tease
In the rustle of the leaves
We find truths that never freeze

In the stillness of the night
Kami’s presence pure in sight
Folded hands a prayer’s light
We honor ancient might

The Tenth Kami stretched there arm out to a rolling storm cloud and it tore in half. Through the cloudy cleft came a light that flickered not unlike flame. The five samurai approached feeling no heat but a chill in their very bones. With purpose they left Meido the realm of waiting and entered Gaki-do the realm of the hungry dead.

Chiasa san’s enchantment on the five samurai’s eyes went into effect. They saw a cracked and rocky, barren, wasteland. Despite the ground feeling like soft, and well… Donoha mentioned it felt the same as when he punched person in the stomach. While he was not sure what the other were thinking he was personally very thankful for the visual enchantment.

Then the sounds in the distance of people crying out, dying began to set in. When Hanzo san mentioned it, Donoha sama mentioned that he was having flashbacks to the time he was visiting Kaiu Kabe. He was given permission to visit and collect the blades of a group of fallen samurai.

Their blades had broken during a raid by goblins. Donoha had wanted to restore their honor in his new sword. Every name fresh in his memory: Hida Shimazu san, Hida Nagahide san, Hiruma Kenji san, Hida Moriyama san, Kuni Asakura san, and Yasuki Saigo san. He only had a small moment in time to share his memory of the screams before Asahi sama had sensed the hungry dead found them.

The Lion drew their jade katana as his Dragon cousin drew Mittsu Tamashi. Hanzo san knocked a jade arrow as the Phoenix and Unicorn prepared to draw on the might of the Kami. The plan had been to use the Lion as bait because the creatures of Gaki-do sought him out over everything else back in Rokugan. However, that soon fell apart as the creatures split equally to attack the Dragon and the Lion!

Six total monstrosities of the hungry dead approached and two had been transformed by Chikushudo to each have as many limbs as a spider! The skirmish was fierce and both the Lion bushi and the Dragon courtier were lucky for their armor, school training, and the respective war fan and smithing hammer they carried in their spare hands.

Even with all of this helping them they were getting hammered to keep the attention on themselves. Thus allowing Tamaki san to cast the spell, Jade Strike multiple times. Gunba san to rip rocks from the ground, transform them into jade and throw them at the enemy. Last but certainly not least Hanzo san proved their skill with their yumi bow sinking jade arrows through the creatures and they did not shatter upon landing. Now Donoha suspect part of that it from the true nature of Gaki-do since the ground feels soft to the touch. Only “looking” the part of a rocky wasteland.

This was definitely a team effort. Donoha sama learned something about Mittsu Tamashi during the fight. His sword was warming up when striking the creature only harmed by magic, jade, or crystal! When his blows landed they cut and hurt the creatures as much as the attacks made from jade did! It was a gamble because he was concerned more for the Scorpion courtier that got pulled into this than himself. He trusted his sword would get him through and its clearly an awakening nemurani at this point! After they won, Tamaki san had their magic available to heal both the Lion fully and the Dragon to nearly full health.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 33

Posted on October 21, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

The Perils of the Climb

Festival of Lady Doji and Lord Kakita and the 1st of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}). You think the Dragon and Lion cousins would remember to have rice every day, but guess whom left with their companions without a morning bowl of rice. Fate made sure this was noted as they passed the gates of Kyuden Tonbo on their way up the great climb to Shiro Kitsuki, otherwise known as Last Step Castle. The official gateway into the lands of the Dragon Clan. They were entrusted with several scrolls of discourse between the Emerald Ambassadors and the Dragon Clan champion. All of them were sealed in a chest they were bringing to the High House of Light, Kyuden Togashi.

About and half and hour of the day (OOC: 60 minutes. Remember a Rokugani day only has 12 hours so that is two earth hours) north of Kyuden Tonbo they came upon a most peculiar sight! An incredibly handsome man standing on the side of the road, freezing because they were unprepared for the cold weather they found themselves in. Wearing a beautiful black, metallic, mask and the mon of the Scorpion clan upon their crimson, silken, kimono. Donoha sama pulled the beleaguered Scorpion up onto Yukiabo, his personal horse. Also providing this person his bedroll so they could stop shivering. Once on the back of his horse with their belongings they learned this Scorpion’s name was Shosuro Hanzo san.

After a short period of time and a promise to take Hanzo san to Shiro Kitsuki for aid. The four companions came to understand that magic had whisked the Shosuro from a tea house in the Scorpion lands! Only to dump them on the side of a well protected road between the Dragonfly Clan and the Dragon Clan! If you ever meet Donoha sama please make sure he eats rice in the morning or fate may whisk you away to whatever adventure he is upon!

Around the time a full hour of the day had passed (OOC: 120 minutes. Remember a Rokugani day only has 12 hours so that is two earth hours), the sounds of battle began to fill the air! Some of them were monstrous and others appeared to be from a human or humans, it was hard to tell. Donoha sama with Hanzo san behind him, Asahi Sama, and Tamaki san raced ahead. Otaku Gunba san had to stay at a slower pace because his Unicorn horse was carrying their supplies and he was riding another Rokugani smaller horse that had a similar breed as the Dragon. While smaller these horses had been bred in either Dragon or Phoenix lands and were used to the terrain.

The Unicorn shugenja was not far behind them as our tale will tell, so fear not he has his hand on the share of glory inbound. Initially Donoha thought the monstrous sounds might belong to trolls, but to his surprise they were Yeti! Facing off against four Yeti was a lone Dragon bushi whom had just been knocked back upon the ground after killing three of the four Yeti BY THEMSELVES! Truly a magnifcent battle was underway, and the samurai present wasted no time to render aid. The Lion and the Dragon cousins raced to face against the last Yeti. Following the battlefield acumen of Asahi sama, Donoha sama changed directions to help the Dragon bushi. Isawa Tamaki got into an advantageous position should he need to call upon the kami for aid. Even Shosuro Hanzo san, only slightly less frozen found a defensible position from which to fire arrows in support of the bushi and the courtier rushing into the fray!

The Dragon bushi told Donoha sama to return to the fight for he would live and the blood on him was from the dead creatures he had slain. With a quick nod the sword and hammer wielding courtier spun to aid his Lion cousin. Only by that time his cousin had deliver a set of strikes to fell the fourth Yeti on his own merit! A shout from Gunba san alerted the group to another Yeti approaching from a nearby ridge. When it burst through the tree line, our Unicorn shugenja was getting up to the fight in progress.

Tamaki san threw fire magic at it and Hanzo san let arrows fly, which caused the Yeti to jump down to where he was! Talk about your day taking a hard turn. From teahouse to snow bound fight with a monstrous beast many think are folk tales, welcome to the Dragon lands!

Donoha leapt down after the Yeti and would have cut the creature in half if their katana had been an Odachi! As the red spray of the creature’s blood painted the snow. Gunba san used their magics to hurl rocks from the surroing area at it toppling it over! Calling out to his cousin not to help Donoha strode up and beheaded the snow beast and bringing the fight to a conclusion.

The introductions to the amazing bushi that had felled three of these beasts caused Donoha sama to bow so deep his face was in the snow. Standing before everyone was Togashi Hoshi, the son of the current Dragon Clan Champion! He knew everyone by name which was a little off-putting for the assembled samurai. Our Dragon investigator was only slightly less surprised because of his knowledge of the Dragonfly Clan and his own family were experts at gathering information. Certainly someone had provided this information to the son of the Clan Champion.

Togashi sama made an off-hand comment that the group was not supposed to run into Shosuro san until they were leaving for the caravan. That bit of knowledge was leading Donoha sama to other questions but manners would not let him ask them at this point. The very impressive Dragon offered to share his camp with everyone and it would be found on a shortcut to Shiro Kitsuki. When they arrived they only had to set up the tent Asahi sama had brought to accommodate Hanzo san. While Gunba san tended to the animals where they were far more comfortable, the rest of the group shared a meal and tea.

During the meal Hanzo san began to act strangely upon learning of Asahi’s family name. This sparked a line of questioning from Donoha sama which culminated in learning that Shosuro san maybe have been born in a spirit realm that looks nearly identical to our own Ningen-do! Donoha flatly refused to share any further details about that world he visited and is fairly certain this Scorpion is from there! Needing a break he brought food and tea to Gunba san before returning to the fire. Not long after sitting down everyone began to feel sleepy as they felt the warm taste of a Scorpion spice, known as cinnamon.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 32

Posted on October 12, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Ambushed!

The word was sent out to the attendants of the Emerald Ambassadors about the poison being applied to the communal food. Next, the four samurai shared it with the healers of their respective clans knowing word would soon spread that there was no curse following them, and more lives could be saved. Word came back soon that the Dragon, Phoenix, and Unicorn ambassadors would meet with the group in the morning for a report about the news. The morning of the 28th of Shiba in Rokugan’s year 1123 (Month of the Monkey {OOC: September}) entered the sky to close out the month as attendants brought the four to the Emerald Ambassadors at dawn where they were given rice, cooked meats and a tea that would provide a small boost of energy.

Upon leaving the encounter they met back up with three members of the Ronin Otokodate known as the Iron Fans. Our group had seen their members briefly as they had docked and then left Toshi Ranbo wo Shien Shite Reigisaho on their way here to Kyuden Tonbo. This group had asked an eta among the caravan to lead them to Akodo Asahi sama as they felt a need to pledge themselves to work for a reputable samurai among the Lion clan. Among them was:

They brought additional news of a group of bandits that had broken away from the caravan and where to find their encampment. The Dragon investigator was eager to learn more about this group and their machinations. Quickly the group gather means and headed out as a band of seven samurai.

To say fate is forging the souls of Kitsuki Donoha sama and those that travel with him may be the biggest understatement of this current decade! Fourteen well trained bandits comprised of assassins, swordsmen, and archers descended upon our troop about a half an hour of the day from the camp. The group began to regret their life choices as Isawa Tamaki san let loose with a kami-gifted fireball engulfing four of them! Throughout the battle the Phoenix rained fire down upon various groups softening them up for the rest of the team, and one did fall to just his flames.

In the most awkward, spontaneous, competition the Akodo bushi and the Otaku shugenja began to see whom could kill more bandits! Where Tamaki san had large areas on fire to control the mobs. Gunba san used fire more akin to a skilled archer and sniped targets to death individually with controlled flame bursts! Clearly used to moving around in battle and making use of his fiery, ranged attacks. Not to be left out was Asahi sama’s new cat companion, Kitagawa. The cat managed to take down one of the assassins that Tamaki san had lit on fire!

The three Iron Fans took down an Assassin using nothing but their iron tessen fans! It was a gorgeous display that almost looked like dancers whittling away their target. Then they were directed to subdue another assassin but keep them alive for questioning. A task they performed with ease!

The Dragon was not left out during all the fighting. He moved through the opponents like a specter of death, removing two heads! Then injuring the one he left for the Iron Fans to capture. He almost had a third kill but an arrow from his Lion cousin claimed it with skilled precision. The final tally ended up as a tie for Asahi sama and Gunba san at four kills each, Donoha sama with two and the others with one each.

The interrogation of the last assassin brought forth statements that the group which had backed Asako Takumi was still after Donoha sama! Even more disturbing was their wish to sabotage the caravan! Claims were made they had been with the Emperor’s Gift since Otosan Uchi! The Dragon had Ginzan the ronin kill him once they were done. Upon returning to the caravan he asked the Iron Fans to write their testimony down so he could submit it along with his report to he Ambassadors. Portents of doom about a potential peasant cult trying to overthrow the whole of Rokugan was not the news he wanted to bring to light but there it was.

This was all reported to the same Dragon, Phoenix, and Unicorn ambassadors. After which the group was told to rest because they had received word the four of them – and only the four of them – had been granted permission to enter the Dragon lands and they would leave tomorrow. Upon the Festival of Lady Doji and Lord Kakita and the start of the Month of Bayushi, or Rooster in low Rokugani.

They returned to the wagons and Donoha asked his cousin to have them watch wagons alongside Agasha Re. Ginzan would be allowed to stay in the wagon with Re san while the two men would make a tent outside. Donoha wanted to give the ronin a chance to prove they could make decent retainers for his cousin. He cited to me that merit and skill should not be overlooked when finding a good team. It also followed the orders of the Emperor that all ronin should seek service among a lord. Donoha sama saw great potential in his teammates and never doubted his cousin would be a powerful lord or general someday. Growing that powerbase now was important and setting the cornerstone to build upon had to start at some point, why not now. Next, they began to go about the steps to prepare for such a journey as the last day of Shiba wore on.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 31

Posted on September 15, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Diminished.

The morning of the 27th of Shiba in Rokugan’s year 1123 (Month of the Monkey {OOC: September}) was welcomed to Donoha sama baring a missive received telling him not to return home at this time, disguised as as a completely other missive. It also mentioned that explanations would come later, and not to worry as it was not an issue of peril or shame. They told him they were proud and he should continue on his path.

When he arrived at the communal fire pit set up outside the two wagons gifted to him by grandmother he found his Lion cousin standing there. He just tossed his crumpled up missive in the fire which prompted Asahi sama to query his Dragon cousin if he’d gotten a cryptic missive as well. Donoha sama nodded and they mentioned that they would talk about their missives later since they were being joined by Gunba san and Tamaki san. Back from various duties and a morning meeting before breakfast rice had been acquired.

They conversed about the issue plaguing the Emperor’s Gift caravan:

  • Depleted Supplies – The caravan’s food and water supplies have dwindled significantly due to the prolonged journey, and the merchants are worried about reaching the next town.
  • Infected Travelers – Several caravan members have begun to show signs of illness, raising concerns that the Darkfever Plague has spread to the caravan.
  • Suspicious Strangers – New faces have joined the caravan during the group’s absence, including a few suspicious characters who keep to themselves according to this author’s sources.
  • Tension with the Dragonfly Clan – Upon nearing the Dragonfly lands, the caravan encountered a group of Dragonfly diplomats who express concerns about the caravan bringing the plague into their territory.
  • Damaged Wagons – Several of the wagons in the caravan have suffered damage during the journey, slowing progress and risking the loss of valuable goods.
  • Rumors of Bandits – There are whispers among the caravan members that bandits have been spotted in the area, possibly lying in wait to ambush the caravan.
  • Discontent Among the Caravan Members – Tensions have risen among the caravan members during the group’s absence, leading to disagreements and minor skirmishes.
  • Mysterious Disappearances – A few members of the caravan have gone missing over the past few weeks, leaving behind no trace.

During their morning meal it was decided to take an hour of the day (OOC: Remember a Rokugani day only has 12 hours so that is two Earth hours) and look into the problems of the caravan. Then they would reconvene and decide on a course of action. Donoha sama mentioned wanting to show them Kyuden Tonbo and his favorite tea house there, so it was agreed upon to meet there for lunch. While the others pursued their own endeavors, Donoha sama investigated a number of the wagons and determined the damage was not wear and tear, but actual sabotage! Upon meeting back up they did not discuss anything immediately but entered Kyuden Tonbo. It was obvious that the mysterious thing most Dragons have is cryptic talking where Donoha sama’s cryptic nature is how talkative he is.

Mentioning as they were walking to the teahouse, that they were in the Shinpi province. Which held not just the Dragonfly Lands and Kyuden Tonbo but Shiro Kitsuki further north. He had grown up in the Kaitou province in a smaller copper mining village just north of Great Falls Castle. Tapping his smithing hammer in his obi he mentioned that Great Falls Castle was built by a Togashi monk whose birth family was Kaiu! It was designed with running waterfalls going through the ground floor! Along the way he pointed out some of the people he knew in town as they would pass by on the street:

  • Tonbo Isamu – possibly the most venerable shugenja in the clan.
  • Tonbo Hideki – a renowned diplomat and poet, his son lives in Phoenix lands as a scribe. This person has helped Donoha sama become a better poet with a few pointers when he was younger.
  • Tonbo Ryuu – a skilled negotiator whom Donoha sama admires for his endless curiosity and travels.
  • Tonbo Koji – while they have not spoken in person to this date he did have correspondence with the legal expert among the Dragonfly clan.

When they arrived at the Glass Window (Garasu mado) tea house the group was greeted by the owner, Tonbo Eiji sama. The owner was also the younger brother of the Dragonfly clan daimyo, Tonbo Kuroto sama! The teahouse had long experimented with a newer art style brought by the Unicorn into Rokugan, stained glass! The tea house was divided into four quarters an each had a unique set of stain glass windows to catch the light of the sun throughout the day. Eiji sama had his staff sit them in the room with the most light and food and tea were brought out to the delight of their palates.

During their meal among the quiet anonymity in their part of the teahouse, they began discussing matters. The others had similar concerns that the caravan’s woes were being coordinated by someone or something. It was decided to have the group split up and with Asahi sama acting as Gunba’s yojimbo and Donoha sama would perform that role for Tamaki san. They would use entreat with the kami to try and find out as much as they could about these issues and decide upon a way forward. Donoha sama’s main reason for splitting the group was to get two independent observations that could, potentially, corroborate each other. At the very least the kami could shed light on past events otherwise shrouded in the veil of the past.

The plan was to meet back at the wagons and then advise the Emerald Ambassadors on which path or paths might prove fruitful in solving the issues of the caravan. Upon their regrouping, they were able to corroborate the following from Gunba san’s communing with the Air Kami and Tamaki san’s communing with the Water Kami: Depleted Supplies, Suspicious Strangers, Damaged Wagons, Rumors of Bandits, Discontent Among the Caravan Members, and Mysterious Disappearances. Were part of a plot that came to fruition about 6 days prior. Someone or some group had orchestrated the Eta and Heiman members to acts of sabotage, theft, and disruption of the caravan before fleeing and splitting up among nearby territories to disappear among the populace.

It was Isawa Tamaki san that thought to ask about the illness via the Fire Kami and learned it was another facet of the same plot by using poison on the communal food supplies! They learned that no one was still currently poisoning the food and those afflited would either pull through or die. At least by telling the healers it was poison and not a curse they could perhaps save more lives.