Tag: Mori Kage Toshi

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 21

Posted on July 10, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

ARRIVAL AT SHIRO SHIBA

3rd of Doji in Rokugan’s year 1123 (Month of the Goat {OOC: August}) – When the group made it back from the spirit world the jade pendants blew away like dust on the wind. It was then the 1st of Doji/Goat. They spent the morning loading everything and prepping the – at that time – unconscious Seia san, Isawa Kyoko san, Matsu Shànzi (yep, that’s me) sama, and the unknown Isawa shugenja they had rescued for transport. Any tents and were left behind unless they could help with transport. Shirogane showed the group where all the horses were not unlike a pack dog.

Seia san was secured to Bayushi Airi san’s horse. Isawa Kyoko san was secured to Hiruma Gombei san’s horse, Matsu Shànzi sama was secured to Donoha san’s horse, Yukiabo, and the unknown shugenja was secured to Akodo Asahi’s horse.

The man that had been going by the name of Doji Hoto took the majority of the luggage on his horse. It took two days going as fast as they could to arrive at the caravan outside Shiro Shiba. When they arrived at the caravan two Crane samurai were there and mentioned the Crane Emerald ambassador had urgent business with the man that was going by Doji Hoto. Only later, after Shiba Sono sama, the Phoenix Emerald ambassador took charge of the unconscious members we’d returned. That they learned the man they had known as Doji Hoto was an imposter!

The only things shared with the real Doji Hoto was the given name and a remarkably similar face. The ronin known as Hoto was from a disgraced Doji family forced to live as ronin. He was sentenced to serving aboard the Mantis ships to re-earn his honor. Since he had helped slay Oni, and lift the curse of Mori Kage Toshi. Donoha san hid his emotions well with a small smirk, but that lie gnawed at him and helped to shape some views he held onto later.

The group was introduced to Asako Eiko, whom served at the temple of the Eternal Flame for decades. She was to be the liaison between the group of whispered heroes and anything they need at Shiro Shiba. Set to retire after the caravan leaves this is her final act as one of the most trusted members of the community.

From her the samurai learned about the Whispering Grove hot springs. Tucked away in the verdant hills surrounding Shiro Shiba, a serene and mystical woodland shrouded in ancient mystery. It is said towering cedar trees stretch skyward, their branches forming a natural canopy that filters sunlight into dappled patterns upon the forest floor. Soft moss carpets the ground, muffling footsteps and lending the grove an air of tranquil solitude.

At the heart of the Whispering Grove stands the Spirit Pool, a crystal-clear pool fed by a natural spring that bubbles up from the earth below. It is said that the waters of the Spirit Pool possess magical properties, granting visions and insights to those who bathe or drink from its sacred depths.

The Spirit Pool is where nearly each member of the group wandered off to. Donoha san wanted to ask Airi san a question about an item they had yet to talk about. She accepted and headed straight to the Spirit Pool hot spring. Donoha san got a spare change of clothes to get into before going himself. All I got out of Donoha san though was the water was hot and his face would become flush as he mumbled about how correct Airi san is. I am still waiting to hear from Airi san her version of the conversation between her and Donoha san.

The Dragon spent the rest of the day reading of the Tao of Shinsei in the Hall of Eternal Wisdom. He learned of the location from Asako Eiko sama, she made sure he returned to a copy waiting in the room they had given him. In fact everyone returned to something they wanted to see or asked about. Though none more so than Bayushi Airi san, whom returned to Seia san kneeling just inside the door!

At dinner that night everyone learned that Isawa Kyoko san along with the unconscious shugenja. Whom we learned was Isawa Samamosuke san, and a small group of Shiba yojimbo. Were escorting the scroll that had been borrowed from Agasha Yuzuki back to her. Out of everyone this relieved Donoha san the most, his promise was being kept.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 17

Posted on July 9, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

This brings us back to the present day, 24th of Akodo in 1123 (Month of the Horse). We’re a few hours outside of Toshi no Omoidoso and have come to a larger bridge usable by those on the Emperor’s Road. The sides bridges that others used had scouts saying Shadowland Shades had been seen. Many of the samurai were divided up and sent to each of the bridges. I found out from one of the aids (who bought my book), Donoha san was assigned to Akodo Asahi san’s group, which also had Bayushi Airi with them as well.

While all groups did encounter shades that appeared to learn from the Battle of the Emerald Shades and have better tactics. It was Akodo Asahi san’s group that had something different happen. I’m telling you, some kind of epic destiny follows Donoha san! The dead shades tried to deliberately go after Asahi san! So Asahi san used that feature to make himself bait, so his companions could attack from flanking! Then the shades merged into a giant, singular, version of the shades when they were getting hurt heavily.

What is even more exciting was hearing about Bayushi Airi san jumping into the fray with just wielding knives! She stood toe to toe with Donoha san in the battle! In fact, the aide that brought in the report said that he got the details from Donoha san. When I asked what he did, of course he did not brag about anything regarding himself and chose to talk up his teammates. I gave the aide the low down on what Donoha san likes to do about bragging, and they nodded saying they’ll pass that info along.

This is a new world for me and him growing their legend.

25th of Akoko in 1123 (Month of the Horse) – The caravan was able to keep moving thanks to the efforts of those involved with clearing the bridges. It was the Hour of the Hantei (Serpent / 10am-Noon or Zenith) when the caravan of 93 wagons ground to a halt. The team being sent to Mori Kage Toshi was assembled and the gear requested was handed out. The only one whom got the servant request filled was Doji Hoto san. It was only four heimin and myself to maintain the tents and cooking. It was also the only four that did not shirk when the destination was mentioned. They also managed a number of the other pack horses. The Forest Shadow City team:

  • Akodo Ashi san
  • Bayushi Airi san
    • Seia san
  • Kitsuki Donoha san
  • Doji Hoto san
  • Isawa Kyoko san
  • Shiba Ogawa san
  • Bayushi Akiyama san

Once they were separated the caravan began to lumber forward like a great serpent of legend. Heading down the path to Mori Kage Toshi our heroes quickly saw the ravages of time. Trees that appeared untouched for ages bearing the slow rot of a curse around 350 years old. A mist hung in the air as a sort of warning, “Unless one seeks danger turn back!”

At a fork in the road the group knew they would need to search for a place to sleep. Hoto san, Akiyama san, Kyoko san, and Ogawa san headed off in one direction while the remaining four followed the path forward. For several hours each group wandered and Hoto san’s group found a good spot to make camp while the other four met an ill-omened welcoming party.

The leader of the trio spoke to the group asking them what they were doing there. When our group replied they were head to the castle the three laughed. Only to stop when they realized the samurai were not joking. The dark trio revealed themselves to be followers of the ninth Kami. They offered to escort those present to the castle as brothers and sisters.

Our heroes elected to eschew their offer when mentioning they had come to apprehend Doji Hengo and try to remove the curse of the castle. The dark trio of ronin descended upon the ground and pair off with the trio. Seia san had disappeared from the area as the fight began, likely seeking safety in case she needed to warn the other group. The female of the group squared off with Bayushi Airi san on the left flank. The group’s purported leader and Kitsuki Donoha san began walking towards each other. Akodo Asahi san drew and arrow and nocked his yumi and shot between Donoha san and their opponent to hit the one on the right flank! Enraged, they began to circle around to fight the Lion samurai.

It is rare to see a battle between two people that are completely and evenly matched. Such was the situation Bayushi Airi san found themselves in with the female ronin. Wielding her red & black aiguchi in one hand and a plain black lacquered tanto in the other. She was grateful for the light armor that had been procured for her. Back and forth they went without more than landing a minor hit on each other.

Akodo Asahi san got a wonderful hit on the ronin that chose to track down to him. The only reason his life lasted that long was that he avoided Donoha san. As fate would have it he would survive the two arrows buried in him and close the distance to rokuganto (Rokugan Sword) combat range! Asahi san began to sing a funeral dirge for the ronin and you really want to hear that voice sometime! Ladies, gentleman, and every other pretty person reading this volume, Asahi san can sing and sing WELL! I don’t think I can stress the talent needed to sing in combat where breathing is crucial!

Now, I would like to explain the difference between my perspective and Donoha san’s. Donoha san’s description of his fight was and I quote, “I hit him twice and he died, he also was not good at math or strategy.” Yeah, that’s it! Thanks to other people present I can explain in greater detail.

The group’s leader had misjudge how far Donoha san could move. Donoha san had tilted his head briefly to one side and strode forward his Oath-hammer in his left and the Three Souls katana in his right. With one swing pieces of his opponent’s light armor and blood went flying! With his second hit the same thing happened again and the ronin fell! A crimson “X” beginning to soak the ground around him. Then he turned his attention to Airi san’s opponent.

In nearly the whole fight Donoha san did not speak. Now, the one whom was speaking was Airi san. She had uncovered the one Donoha san had killed was the lover of the ronin she was fighting. Her blades were her pincers but the stinger was her words! She waged two battles at the same time, one in the physical world and one in the void of the mind! As Donoha san walked up to the battle twixt Airi san and the female ronin he was becoming distracted by the battle beginning between Asahi san and his walking pin cushion of an opponent. He was so distracted that he absently swung his sword at the ronin that was trying to fend off Airi san’s strikes and words. Now again perspective is important. Donoha san recalls swinging his sword at her from the side. However, he was not actually looking at his target. The katana hit in her lower back, ripped about two sun deep (0.2 Shaku) through her light armor, and came out the front with another burst of blood! When he felt no more resistance he quickly pulled it out of that fray to avoid hitting Airi san.

As Donoha san moved off to go aid his cousin, Asahi san. Airi san did not waste the opportunity given to her and finished off their opponent with not just cutting barbs as her corrupted soul would join her lover in Gaki-Do! Donoha san had closed enough of the distance to be near a stone column in the road. He began a loud shout at the ronin to leave his cousin alone! It drew the attention of the last ronin and Asahi san, whom shot his cousin a look! Conveying the notion to stay out, this one was his!

He let the wakizashi drop back into its saya. He fished a mint colored cloth from under his scaled and shakudo clad do chest piece. Putting the Oath-hammer back in his obi. Wiping his blade clean he returned it to its saya as Airi san joined him. He leaned up against the stone column lamenting to Airi san as much as to the wind, “Please don’t make me tell my aunt her son died in battle like his father.” (edited)

When she stopped at the column he offered his copper fan he’d received from the Centipede Clan’s daimyo. She accepted and they began to talk as his cousin continued his fight. Their conversation took an unexpected turn, it began to follow the notions of love and whether or not the two ronin were really criminals. Donoha san said they had allowed their love to corrupt them. He had told Chiasa san in his vision the Phoenix Emerald Ambassador had noticed him having. That if he was ordered to marry it would be the only way he would touch another woman. Airi san retorted with, “If Chiasa san is forced to marry then would you be okay with another man touching her?”

“If that is the wish of her lord and he treats her well, then yes. My heart might belong to Chiasa san but I don’t want the person assigned to marry me to go through what the Agasha bride did with the Shiba that had fallen for an Ikoma!” His hand gesturing off in the direction of Mori Kage Toshi.

Removing the nose portion of his menpo, shoving it below his Do chest piece and looking at Airi san, “No one deserves that level of callousness from a partner. I won’t be that cruel to anyone.”

The Scorpion stared at the Dragon until they heard the voice of Akiyama san, Kyoko san, and Ogawa san. Calling out to Asahi as he had just delivered the fatal blow to his opponent! Winning their first real fight. If the Scorpion had more to say to the Dragon they chose to save that discourse for another time.

Seia san had appeared from behind her Bayushi mistress as though she had been there the whole time. As the two groups converged to congratulate Asahi san. Doji Hoto san also began to appear in the distance coming to join everyone. It decided that despite this location being a decent campsite no one wanted to sleep near decaying bodies.

Seia san had collected the katana of the fallen, specifically the lovers. Their bodies would be left to the animals of the forest to provide sustenance. Airi san made a remembrance of for the fallen lovers and Donoha san composed a haiku on the spot when she finished:

Dead lovers’ lament,
Katana’s blade stained with blood,
A hate turned to love. 

The reunited group returned to the encampment Hoto and his four, loaned, Crane servants had set up everything. The surprise of a hot spring within the encampment was a joyous surprise to those that had not seen it before. Akiyama san and Hoto san had arranged everything with the four servants on loan to the Crane. It was an impressive encampment to behold!

Airi san offered to help Donoha san with removing his armor, and he graciously accepted. Both Seia san and Airi san got a chance to see the armor box with a unique mon that was also on the waist plate of Donoha san’s scaled Do chest plate. His clan’s mon was where his heart would be. The Kitsuki family mon was on the left shoulder while the mon for the Dojo of the Mirror was on the back of the left shoulder plate.

What caught both women a bit off guard was the reverence he paid to the smithing hammer with Crab designs etched into the head. The one he would wield in his left hand during fights as though he’d replaced his wakizashi with it to perform Niten. No matter what was being removed from him the hammer was either in his field of vision or he was holding it. Even down to waist level undergarments so he could go and bath. The hammer never left him, not even when he helped undo a few catches on Airi’s armor before leaving them in his tent so they could take care of their preparations in privacy.

Stools and buckets had been setup by the hot springs for washing before the soak. Scars people don’t normally see were on display. The one below the left collar bone and the other one going from his right shoulder to to left side of his stomach. He did not talk much during the soak but when he shut his eyes in the hot springs the hammer was present and gripped in one hand or the other, constantly.

Eventually Airi san, Kyoko san, and Ogawa san joined. The Dragon asked about his cousin, to which the Phoenix shugenja mentioned the Lion had been fully healed of wounds. Asahi joined the soak shortly after this. Both of the ladies began to tease Ogawa over how he likes me but Donoha came to his rescue after an hour or so. He mentioned guard duty and that he would start it. Ogawa would patrol just Kyoko’s tent but Donoha san would go first and Akiyama san would go second. His cousin had retired and he stuck his head in during his meditation letting know he’d get the third watch.

He told Akiyama san later that they would split the shift and let Asahi sleep. The Scorpion was fine with this and so night fell upon the caravan. When Donoha san went back to his tent he found a red cloth and threaded it into his menpo’s neck plates to be sure he’d ask Airi san about it later. He slept in most of his armor which proved to be advantageous upon awakening.

A cackling sound came for the woods across the fire pit from the tents. A type of half Human, half Oni not seen before by the tree leans back with his hand on his stomach, the other clutching the peculiar glowing orb. His deep laughter chills to the bone on an otherwise clear and pleasant night. His laughter fades, but his grin does not, as he gestures toward the campfire that still burns in the deep hours of the night.

Shadows pour forth like a fog that begins to envelop the area. Each breath becomes encased in frost as movement is slowed…then halted…

The shadows twist about the campsite as vision fades into darkness, souls wrapped in torment!

No one was quite certain what had just happened when the shadows cleared. Nor was this the time to talk about any horrors the shadow magics had borne down upon them. They endured and came out the other side. Now was the time to deal with their interloper. Upon the hill stood the Maho Shugenja screaming, “Hanjen does not fail! How are they coming to?!?”

As our heroes came to their senses they saw the Maho Shugenja stab their hand with a finger nail of the other hand! The smaller hot spring in front of them began to glow green and bubble! Out of the eerie water arose three glowing specters thought banished to the realms beyond! The faces bore no emotion and unlike the last dead spirits they encountered these three did not appear drawn to Asahi san. The ronin couple Hayashi and Reika, along with their companion, Matsuda, began to move to various target suggesting that either the other incident was a one off event or these are not undead specters!

The Maho Shugenja began to weave another dark piece of bloody spellcraft. Donoha san said he would hold would hold off the three specters if everyone could go and attack the blood magic user. Airi san seemed doubtful but Donoha san assured her it would not be the first time. As he moved in Matsuda met the Dragon’s advance! As the spell finished manacles of dark, rusty iron burst from the ground and ensnare the Doji Hoto san, trapping him and holding him in place! Rendered immobile and helpless, unable to take any physical actions. He mentioned it would be nice if someone could cut these chains off.

The ronin specter’s blade flashed crossed the Dragon’s heavy armor but could not find purchase. Airi san moved to help free Hoto san and was successful! However, the Crane had a look of terror for when the spell was broken, the manacles melted away into a disgusting black ooze. Seeping into the kimono they were wearing!

While this was going on the Reika’s specter was going after Asahi san. This was due to the Lion bushi firing an arrow into the Maho Shugenja and then watching it turn into a black piece of blood that glopped onto the ground. Donoha’s second swing decapitated Matsuda and he turned his attention back to Hayashi whom had moved up on Hoto san and Airi san. Each of them had landed a hit but Hoto had received some wounds of his own. Mittsu Tamashi flashed once more leaving vaporous reflections of black and copped as it finished off Hayashi. While both the Crane and Scorpion moved to end the Maho Shugenja. Donoha checked in on his Itoko-san (cousin), and with a grunting nod Donoha left him to finish off Reika’s specter.

As he turned to head off to the villain on the hill he saw the effect of another blood spellcrafting. Airi san’s left left leg had been withered and she was being forced to drag it to move forward! Even Donoha had his soul withered, making it easier to kill him! As a comparison his great pooto falcon, Shirogane, and he were about the same durability now! The group was getting a first hand lesson why maho magics were dangerous and corrupting because resisting them did not appear possible! Doji Hoto san then threw his wakizashi and hit the Maho Shugenja! Follow up by a tanto from Bayushi Airi!

During these attacks Kitsuki Donoha pushed forward knowing his life was more fragile than ever. Trusting his armor would do its job given it had been assembled from various pieces of Seppun Miharu armor. The Miharu are the Imperial legions after all. Being a good judge of distance he was able to not impede the thrown attacks and in a battle of wills managed to break the Maho Shugenja’s focus (Out of Character = Spent a Void to raise initiative and made the NPC do it as well so they could not use it during the round) and bring it to the dragon. Even with all that you can imagine what happened next. I’ll even describe the way Donoha told me.

“I assisted Doji Hoto sama and Bayushi Airi san in their work and finished off the Maho user.”

You can trust in one thing always with Kitsuki Donoha san. He’ll never boast about himself and he’ll always defer to his companions in terms of glory. Now let’s revisit this from the version his companions shared. Donoha made a single slash that started at the left collarbone. Through the ribs and almost coming out the right side, but he turned it similar to a seppuku twist and freed Hoto’s wakizashi. Continuing back left through the ribs and stomach he knocked Airi’s tanto free. Then another twist and back right and out over the right hip!

It should be noted shortly before the foul maho user was cut down they had inflicted another curse! Pain was wrought upon Doji Hoto san and the Crane resisted showing him any, and I mean ANY sign of pain! Even though he’d been knocked down! The Emerald Champion should be proud of this son, their honor is strong indeed!

After their death, the Maho Shugenja and their spell effects turned into black colored blood and seeped into the ground. The wakizashi was laid next to Doji Hoto san, and the tanto returned to Bayushi Airi san. Donoha san cleaned Mittsu Tamashi and tossed this cloth in the fire, which made it flicker weird colors before buring off an acrid smoke that dissipated over a short time.

They sat around the fire until Akodo Asahi san noticed the lack of sound. They began to look around with Kitsuki Donoha san while Bayushi Airi san tended to Doji Hoto san’s wounds. In the other part of the encampment Donoha san was able to find footprints thanks to their training in the Nazado (Investigation) – Ichi Maru (First Glance). He started to act out the battle and was able to tell his cousin whom was he was imitating based on the stances, depth of foot print, sized of imprint, and spacing of feet.

What caught the Dragon off guard was the sudden stop of the battle and EVERYONE else walking off to the castle of Mori Kage Toshi! They must not have woken up from the dark cloud and are still under some form of spell. He explained to Asahi san they have poked the proverbial tiger. Their enemy is actively marshalling forces against them which is telling in its own way. Donoha was even able to confirm Seia san’s location in the woods before she too, just walked off to the castle as they were heading back.

When they had arrived Hoto san looked to be in much better shape than when the Lion and Dragon had left. The Crane recommended the Scorpion’s hands as “soon to be legendary” since Asahi san was still suffering from the battle with Reika’s specter. When Donoha mentioned knowing Seia had gone to the castle along with the other because they did not wake up like the four of them did. Airi san was quick to suggest going after everyone, even if that meant her going alone. While Donoha was fine with a glorious death in service to the Empire, that seemed like a foolish errand and tossingg your life away was wrong because it was not in service to your lord.

Hoto san got caught off guard when Asahi san did not use “sama” with him. They talked about it Doji Hoto presented Akodo Asahi with the fan from Moshi Jukio sama, Daimyo of the Centipede clan, when they offered to do so. It was emblazoned with the clan mon. Made with tempered copper from the Dragon lands, or more succinctly, Donoha san’s family copper mine.

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I edited the one from the L5R site ( https://l5r.fandom.com/wiki/Tessen ) to add the clan’s mon. Then toned the color to give it a copper feel.
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When Donoha suggested leaving in the morning so some of the wounds could mend. The rest felt they would not have such time. He promptly agreed to follow the mission leader’s direction. Akodo Asahi declared everyone should gather what they need and they head out afterwards. Donoha suggested then a preparatory tea ceremony to Megumi, the Fortune of Heroic Inspiration. Everyone was on board for this idea and Doji Hoto san brought out their chrysanthemum tea. While Akodo Asahi san brought out his father’s tea set.

With great care and even greater skill, Hoto san prepared the chrysanthemum tea. Its been said in the last book that they could teach a class on how to do this correctly. Akodo Asahi was given the honor as the mission leader to determine if it was good. In quick measure everyone was sampling Hoto san’s handiwork. Rejuvenated in body and soul, the quartet head out to Mori Kage Toshi.

26th of Akodo in 1123 (Month of the Horse) – Matsu Shànzi (yep, that’s me)

As the Hour of the Tiger (4-6 AM) crested into its turn for the day the Lion, Crane, Scorpion, and Dragon move towards the abandoned but not deserted castle of Mori Kage Toshi. Clearly, the fight they had with the maho shugenja, Hanjen, and the trio of ronin has proven it is very much alive in nefarious fashion. Tired but riding on tea and determination they made their way into the city. The came across another group of seven Emerald Shades and two Ogres guarding a person in what looked like Phoenix shugenja robes.

Donoha san wrote a set of haikus describing the battle, enjoy them.

☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯

Mori Kage Toshi weeps,
A city of shadows deep,
A call for samurai’s sweep.

Through the haunted gates,
Four samurai, hearts ablaze,
To cleanse Mori’s haze.

A lone shugenja stands,
Drawn to Mori’s mournful plea,
Five swords seek to be free.

Roar of the lion,
Strategist’s mind weaves victory,
Foes fall to the plan.

Crane’s arrow takes flight,
Piercing the spirit’s dark heart,
Evil fades to light.

Agile Scorpion,
Dagger flashes, troll’s flesh rips,
Evil’s bane stands tall.

Crane’s swift wings unfurl,
Katana’s flash, a foe falls,
Honor’s light ablaze.

Sharp blade swiftly gleams,
Troll’s roar echoes through the night,
Headless beast falls still.

Amidst the clashing swords,
A warrior’s song pierces air,
Courage knows no fear.

Lion swordsman’s stance,
Seven foes press, blades clashing loud,
Reinforcements charge.

Dragon’s fierce embrace,
Shields Lion’s roar from harm’s way,
Kin’s unwavering bond.

Dragon’s fiery wrath,
Crane’s wings slice through the mist,
Evil spirits fade.

Scorpion’s stealthy crawl,
Through shadows deep, hope takes hold,
Freedom’s grasp eludes.

Through moonlit pathways,
Crane’s wings unfurl, aiding the quest,
Together, hope blooms.

Scorpion’s touch so light,
Mending wounds with skillful art,
Healing’s gentle grace.

Through haunted streets they stride,
Katana gleaming, shadows hide,
Mori’s taint shall subside.

☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯☯

So they freed the Phoenix Shugenja from seven emerald shades and two ogres. At this point they were all hurt again to varying degree except for Doji Hoto san. Slaying an Ogre in a single strike and working with Bayushi Airi san on the other is no small feat! Again Bayushi Airi san rushed headlong into battle against a set of foes that would make many a courtier quake. Their bravery is to be commend as much as the healing they provided later. Even Doji Hoto san aided his companions in mending wounds! Donoha apologized that he had a bit of a hard time fitting that part into the haiku report.

I don’t think any Lion could appreciate a fan given as a gift any more than Akodo Asahi san. With it they held off seven undead samurai assailants until the Crane and Scorpion could finish off the ogres! Now that’s to say Donoha did nothing, as his own grand haiku tells he fought his way to his Itoko san (cousin) and then weathered a hit that would have ended the Lion’s life. Those two are a frightening pair as much as the Crane and the Dragon. It was noted by the Crane that Donoha mastered his feints in heavy armor. When the Crane came to reinforce the Lion. I think the group actually enjoys seeing the Crane and the Dragon talk like lifelong friends or an old married couple.

Now to a final reflection on the Grand Haiku of the Assault of Mori Kage Toshi. The Lion devised a plan and it carried out exactly as they intended. He and Donoha held up the seven emerald shades because dead things appear to be drawn to Akodo Asahi san’s chi! Once the others dispatched the ogres the Scorpion went to secure the Phoenix prisoner and the Crane to help eliminate the emerald shades. We have a battle leader in our midst and on the rise!

After an intense discussion about not having time to wait for rest to save everyone here were the major viewpoints:

  • Doji Hoto san and Bayushi Airi san felt the captives (of which, I am among them) may not have much time.
  • Kitsuki Donoha san felt that their lives were not theirs to throw away since they belong to their lords and Tanetsu sama had not sent him there to die but to succeed.
  • Un-named Phoenix shugenja was still in need of care to wake up.
  • Akodo Asahi was the arbiter and final call as to what the group would do next.

It was decided to rest because if they had wanted to kill everyone then they would have done so back at camp. Whatever the Maho users were planning would need time. They had also removed one of the group’s maho users and some of their forces in the three engagements since entering the woods. So they spent four Hours of Hare (6-8 AM), Dragon (8-10 AM), Serpent (10 AM-Noon), Horse (Noon-2 PM), taking watch and resting. Wounds mended prior to rest were checked and re-applied upon getting up for the next leg of the journey.

 

 

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 13

Posted on July 9, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Kitsuki Donoha’s Day Off

22nd of Akoko in 1123 (Month of the Horse) – If my lord has a weakness it is knowing how to relax. It could be the fates have decreed such because even when he tries we end up on an adventure. He came back to the wagons and Doji Hoto san was off somewhere. Donoha was spending time grooming his horse, Yukiabo. The with his as the great potoo bird (from claw to head was just under two “shaku” or feet), Shirogane he was playing fetch games with dried fish and fruits. After each catch and praise the bird would land and bow their head, wings spread wide.

I had to eventually inform him he had a guest in Bayushi Akiyama san, from the Scorpion Clan. When he told me to bring him over he took a seat and asked if they would like tea. They were gracious in their acceptance of the tea and sat. Before he could utter anything to me I put down two cups of tea I had made and gotten ready before telling him about his guest. His smile and nod was genuinely appreciative.

Akiyama san asked if Donoha sama knew of the legend surrounding Morikage Toshi? My lord remarked that he knew about it vaguely since it involved an Agasha shugenja that went by Yuiko or Yuriko, he’d only heard the tale once when he was nine. He got the impression the Phoenix husband was mean and beat her to death. He apologized but the memory was a decade old. Akiyama san mentioned the version he heard was different.

In the version they were familiar with a young Dragon bride, Agasha Yuriko, was married to the lord of the castle, of Shiba Kojiro. Kojiro dono was unloving and callous in nature. Causing Yuriko san to take her own life in 782. What most weren’t aware of was that her mother was the Oracle of Air! They cast a powerful curse upon his castle, which caused vines and trees to reach out and reclaimed the castle! The Phoenix were forced to abandon the castle completely as they were unable to undo the Air oracle’s spellcraft. It was said that the castle laid vacant, home only to a restless dead and spirits. They also mentioned that their version said nothing about abuse directly against his wife, just callous apathy from Kojiro dono.

Donoha sama nodded and apologized once more that it was a decade old memory. It was interesting because I have watch Donoha memorize and perform a play hours later! I suspect he overheard a telling by someone that had embellished their telling for some reason. Akiyama san told Donoha their is a statue to the very Oracle of Air that cursed Morikage Toshi all those years ago in this very city. This made my lord’s eyebrows perk up in interest. The Scorpion asked the Dragon to help him find it.

My lord agreed and said to come back when the sun was at its zenith. For he had been up all night and needed rest. Then he queried if it would be alright to pose some questions of his own. Akiyama san consented and looked intrigued from the very slight twitch of an eyebrow. Donoha sama asked if he was familiar with the Shosuro family, to which they nodded since it was one of the great familes of the Scorpion Clan. He mention he was aware of a member of the Shosuro house that was attempting to kill him because one of his ancestors helped the Lion Clan during the battle of Kenson Gakka.

I asked Donoha if I might add to his statement, which he nodded was acceptable. I related the tale of how we met and subsequently the capture of Matsu Mayumi san. I was clear that this was an abridged re-telling, and handed him a copy of “In Defense of Honor; vol. 1” for him to have to get any details. The ronin had denied the offer of employment by my lord because the Shosuro lady had offered more koku. Akiyama san appeared genuinely offened that someone of his clan behaved in such a fashion.

Then my lord pointed to his face scar, the silver-copper amalgam fixed tooth which spawn his name at his gempukku completion ceremony. Held at the last winter court where Hantei the XXXVIII attended at Kyuden Ikoma in 1122-1123. And finally the scar on his left shoulder. He explained the attempt on his caravan taking him to Kyuden Ikoma at Kenson Gakka by bandits of which one had a Katana bearing a Bayushi mon engraved in the blade on one side and “何よりも忠誠心 (Naniyori mo chūsei kokoro) Loyalty above all else” on the other.

He nearly cut the assailant’s head off with his wakizashi and the bandit fled leaving the sword in his chest. Once he had escorted the maiden back to the caravan was he informed that she was the daughter of the Ikoma Daimyo! He was careful to say bandit armed with a katana, and not a Bayushi bandit with katana. I think Doji Hoto senpai would have been proud had he saw that. Donoha did mention if anyone among the Bayushi was missing a katana like that it is sitting on a stand in the grand hall of Kyuden Ikoma. They just have to show up and ask for it back.

Akiyama san asked to be involved if at all possible should Donoha sama find the person that had perpetrated such a disgrace of honor to abandon their soul over their life. To him this filth was ronin if they had been a samurai and not just a lucky bandit. Donoha nodded and bid him once more to return at the zenith. After the Scorpion had left he asked me to look into clues about the statue so we would be informed somewhat about the city since his last visit three years ago. I took my leave as he rested Shirogane keeping an eye out for his master.

As the Hour of the Hantei (Serpent / 10am-Noon or Zenith) drew to a close Bayushi Akiyama san appeared at a respectul distance and stood in the shade of a tree with his customary menpo that most Scorpions are want to wear. Some masks are more ornate than others. Women tend to wear veils that obscure as transparent colors of silk, but you need koku for those as that type of sheer fabric is expensive to make.

I provided Akiyama san with a cup of tea while I went to wake Donoha sama. He dressed lighter version of his heavy armor. This consisted of kogake (foot armor), his plate suneate (shin guards), kikko gane obi (armored belt), agiote kote (connected armored sleaves), kikko gane (armored kimono), and tate-eri (shoulder protection). To those of you reading this it seems like a lot but I guarantee you his full outfit is insane!

If he’s not careful someone will confuse his kabuto for a much higher ranking samurai. Well it may not be a problem much longer he’s been getting the beginning of instruction for the Kitsuki school’s second rank skill! It’s amazing that he’s developing so fast. His ability to learn and retain information is nothing short of a fortune’s blessing.

To not scare people with his armor he donned a knee length haori (samurai and ashigaru jacket) of raw green silk. His mon on the left lapel, the Kitsuki mon on the right and his Dragon clan mon very large on the back. He got it this morning from Tanetsu sama as a reward for his efforts so far. The golden silk, shasiko stitching makes it look like he has a formal sash draped over him like a magistrate may wear at a trial. A yellow silk outer style obi half dyed a dark green made him look like a lord. Good grief I want Doji Hoto to pick out my next obi as he is really making Donoha’s wardrobe explode.

Note to self: set aside some koku to see if Doji Hoto sama can acquire me a few finer items so I don’t dishonor Donoha sama.

His three customary items adorned him and he walked out to meet the Scorpion. At this point I explained my research and that I knew where to find the statue. Akiyama san seemed surprised but Donoha bowed and when he stood up, “Shànzi san we are in your care and shall follow your lead.” Off we headed into the city!

During the trek through the city Akiyama san noticed Donoha appeared distracted as though he was looking for something. When he queried him about it Donoha sama mentioned they we being watch and possibly followed. Either, Akiyama san is very new, or not all Scorpions are the great spymasters people think they are. The mask did a good job of hiding what appeared to be surprise, again just my opinion. After a few more streets Donoha blurted out, “Ah yes, this way.” While we exchanged looks the Lion and the Scorpion followed the Dragon.

About ten shaku down the alleyway he turned and stopped, looking past both of us. His head tilted slightly and as we turned in the direction of his gaze two Phoenix samurai rounded the corner and the four of us looked surprised. Donoha read the situation of the guard and his charge and just said, “Greetings Shiba san and Isawa san, how may we be of service today?”

The Isawa shugenja mentioned they were visiting the city of Phoenix governor, Isawa Fumihiko, because they two were trying the find the Statue of the Oracle of Air. The Shiba guard looked at his charged, “Why did you think following them would work?”
“It seemed like fun!”

Donoha told me later he had gotten lost in a memory just then as everyone talked and introduce themselves. Shiba Ogawa san’s and Isawa Kyoko’s personalities reminded him of time he spent playing with his sister, Kitsuki Hoshikiba. She would often act like Ogawa san and Kyoko san had a personality much closer to Donoha sama pre-gempukku.

Oddly enough, Donoha sama had not been trying to dismiss the bandit with the Mantis daisho when they said their sister was attending the Kakita blade academy of the Steel Gardens. It seems there was a bet between a Kakita and a Mirumoto pair of samurai. The Mirumoto in this case was aide to the Daimyo of Great Fall castle and the Kakita was an aide to the Daimyo of Kyuden Kakita.

They had agreed to swap children for each other’s schools. When the Mirumoto’s child was killed by bandits in the West Hub Village. Kitsuki Orochi offered one of his children to help fulfill the promise. Since Kistuki Hoshikiba was the acceptable age and had passed her gempukku, she set out the following morning with two Mirumoto guards whose mission it was to see her to her school, the Steel Garden, in Kyuden Kakita.

Donoha never met the Kakita samurai sent to study the Mirumoto’s Niten Style of swordsmanship. Truly, I’d love to meet the person sent from the Crane clan. Alas, that will have to be another tale for another time.

When he had snapped out of his reverie he overheard the Phoenix shugenja mentioning a nefarious set of nemurani known as the Bloodswords. One of them may have driven Shiba Kojiro mad? My lord asked if we should all just go see the statue together. They readily agreed mentioning a living descendant of Agasha Yuriko still resided in this city, but they had been unable to meet with her. So onward we went as a group.

We arrive in the stone courtyard to the beautiful statue that was suppose to be the Oracle of Air from roughly 350 years back. The crown, the hair, the statue was so life like. Donoha sama was nodding and mentioning he’d seen states like when he had visited Kyuden Doji during his gempukku. I don’t if he was aware he did this but a number of times when he remembers something from then. He runs his finger down the scar on his left cheek. I could see him having experiences that I was only just beginning to understand with the Emperor’s Gift. He mentioned that the sculpture was clearly the work of a shugenja that talked to the kami to get some areas like the hair and folds of the fabric.

When asked I provided the tools so he could paint the statue. Donoha sama looked up just three times yet he wielded that brush like a sword. He’d tied his sleeves back with a spare mint green raw silk sash. A warrior, investigator, and artist. I had a lovely time discussing stories with Shiba Ogawa san so he could keep his charge within eyesight. Kyoko san and Akiyama san were both discussing the myriad of tale variations surrounding Morikage Toshi.

After nearly one and a half hours of the day (META: 3 hours for us). He handed my tools and supplies back to me and return to the painting on the ground. “The three of you will want to keep these, because, after today if I am right the statue will never look the same. Before that I have questions for this living relative.” Then he tossed the painting in the air and drew his wakizashi and swung it twice severing the paper into three parts. The matching size smaller pieces he gave to Akiyama san and Kyoko san. The larger one he gave to me so we could remember the trip today.

When the day comes that I travel no more, I will always remember the faces of people that first hand experience the art my lord is capable of. Akodo Maki, Bayushi Akiyama, and Isawa Kyoko now share that wonder together. When Shiba Ogawa saw it he said, “How did he flatten the statue on to paper?”

Next, Donoha sama wanted to visit the descendant of Agasha Yuriko. When the two Phoenix said they had already tried he asked what happened. They said her monk attendant said she was unavailable. Donoha gestured for them to continue after an awkward silence.

Ogawa shrugged, “That’s it, we left.”

“You left,” asked Donoha?

Kyoko replied, “Yes.”

Donoha gestured with his arm, “I believe we should try again, please lead the way.”

Once we arrived at the home of Agasha Yuzuki sama, Donoha sama rang their welcome chime. It was suppose to alert people of guests and chase away spirits. My lord stepped back and waited for the door to slide open revealing the Brother of Shinsei attendant mentioned before.

Donoha bowed and dropped a verbal hammer on the monk, “We’re here to see the lady of the house about the Bloodsword.”

Perplexed and astonished the monk retorted, “Bloodsword?”

“The lady will know what it means, please take all the time you need. My companions and I will wait, right here, for as long as required.” Donoha sama then turned around and looked at everyone with a small grin. Hoto sama he’s really trying.

After a bit of time the door opened up and the monk bade us come inside. Those with katana were provided with stands and we removed our sandals for outside travel. Then we were led upstairs to a receiving room with nice, if hastily put together presentation. Soon Agasha Yuzuki joined us bringing a long case. Donoha sama had been sat closest to her with the Scoripion kept to the farthest distance. If Akiyama san was put off he did not show it.

Donoha sama had made sure to follow all the etiquettes required for such and impromptu gathering. We learned that Shiba Kojiro to was trying to break his wedding to Agasha Yuriko to marry into the Ikoma. It broke Agasha Yuriko’s heart and she died from it. Those children of that union had it rough but survived. When their mother began haunting Shiro Morikage the Phoenix called into the Kuni of the Crab but they were unsuccessful in dealing with the ghost.

Then came the curse of the Oracle of Air in the “tree that bleeds.” She removed a scroll from the long case and provided it to Donoha sama. On one side it bore the tree that bleeds with with a castle in the background. The reverse long set of Haiku written by the Oracel of Air – known as ‘The Song of Regret’ (後悔の歌 Kōkai no uta). The Song of Regret is a series of haiku, but my lord was also able to determine with one read that there were three larger sections. Each dedicated to Fear then Desire and lastly Regret. The form of haiku is represented in the whole song as well as its pieces, layered in expert form. It tells the story of her daughter’s life, death, and the curse of Morikage Toshi.

Kyoko was astonished she had not caught on when Donoha ask the matron about it. Yuzuki sama secure a promise that the scroll would be returned and they allowed us to take it so their ancestor may find peace. From there we headed to the Red tea house when Kyoko san and Ogawa san were staying. In the Phoenix Shugenja’s room with the group she provided two scrolls.

The first scroll was the story recounted here is but one version of how the Nothing – also known as the Shadow, the Living Darkness, or the Lying Darkness – was able to survive the naming of all things, and how it came to become allied with Lord Moon. Other tales of the Nothing’s origins circulate in hidden circles of Rokugani scholarship, or are whispered between crazed cultists of the Darkness, or can be gleaned from forgotten pages of Goju’s Celestial Agonies. In one version of the tale, the Nothing cloaked itself within something that had already been named: Shadow. Thus it escaped the attention of Onnotangu and Amaterasu, and thus was born its sinister affinity to darkness and shadows of all kinds.

In the second scroll another version was described. Onnotangu actually saw the Darkness hiding in the shadows. He spoke with it, and the Darkness whispered back that he should leave it unnamed…in case he ever felt the need to unmake what he had made. And Onnotangu, who even then noticed how much his wife loved the new world and felt the stirrings of jealousy in his heart, listened to the Darkness and allowed it to remain unnamed.

Donoha spotted a bound book, “If I help I want that Book of the Tao of Shinsei as a reward.”

Kyoko san asked, “You want my copy of the Tao of Shinsei?”

With a slight smile, “Yes, rewards should be handed out after quests.”

“What do I get in exchange?

“You may call upon me for a favor in the future.”

The Phoenix and the Dragon bowed to each other and I could tell the Scorpion felt like he now just here as a witness to events unfolding. Then he turn to the Scorpion and said he could call for an additional favor because this was entertaining. Mask or no mask Akiyama san was smiling.

Donoha mentioned we needed to hurry and get to the statue before the shadow of sunset hit. Off we headed and with maybe a half or quarter of the day left with sunlight on the statue Donoha sama climbed up to raised dais it was on. He was studying it and explaining everything about the statue and the shugenja artisans of the Crane from Kyuden Doji. Just before the rays left he said, “Yes, there you are!”

With two fingers one either side he LIFTED the stone crown off the statue! Once it was freed and lifted into the whole thing cracked and the golden crown was exposed as the stone veneer fell away! Everyone was stunned as he set it in the joint hands of Akiyama and Kyoko. We were about to leave them to figure out what they would do, but suggested they may want to join the caravan for a short time. The Phoenix agreed and will be staying in Donoha’s wagon short term. They said after Morikage Toshi they would return the scroll so Donoha’s word could be kept. What a day!