Tag: Scorpion Clan

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 45

Posted on January 27, 2025 by Shanzi Matsu

The Twin Blademasters, a Damaged Doji, and New Friends

On the 26th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster in Low Rokugani {OOC: October}), the wind and snow at the hour of the Horse (Hour of Akodo in High Rokugani {OOC: 12pm – 2pm}) made the air brisk and sharp. As the two participants walked to the center of the recently constructed ring. Donoha sama mused over Hanzo san’s warning. “Remember, he will try like Jigoku to get in the first hit using that move I showed you. I recommend simply shifting to the oblique rather than attempting to parry, then counter strike to his exposed sword arm flank,” warns Hanzo. Deftly sliding a small pouch into the Dragon’s kimono, “If you are hit even for a SCRATCH, immediately rub this powder into the wound! The Bayushi bushi are artisans that paint in blood, and not to be trusted. They will kill even their loved ones.” Hanzo san’s eyes looked down and away in a pained expression, then return to meet Donoha sama’s.

It was Isawa Tamaki san that approached Donoha sama next and told him to just breath in and out as he tore a small ofuda from his hat. Asking permission to touch the Dragon before pressing it to Donoha sama’s forehead and praying. Mystically giving him the sleep and rest he had missed out upon! The Dragon was worried it was a boost and the Phoenix shugenja assured him it was not.

Donoha sama confided in me that he had been pondering using one of the abilities of Mittsu Tamashi 三魂 the Three Souled Katana. Before anyone thinks ill of Donoha sama for his thoughts, or me for breaking his trust. I was given permission to share this as a means of teaching others how to handle power wisely and with honor. Donoha sama did not want to harm Bayushi Koruma san since they were innocent of the crime and had been forced into the duel as a yojimbo by Mirumoto Renjiro sama. He alluded that the power granted by the soul of Akodo Chun san would help him get the first strike if he made use of it. Since the duel was to first blood it would allow him to win and prevent harm to an innocent man.

However, was winning more important or avoiding pain? Some scholars mention that life is pain, and when you no longer feel pain you’re dead. There was the thought of avoiding the first hit so this could become a standard skirmish, and then he could fare better. Then he realized having his sword awaken had somehow shaken his faith in his own skill. He knew his sword better than anyone. This duel would be a reminder to have faith in himself and his abilities. Looking at his opponent they bowed to each other and then to Renjiro sama. Lastly, to Doji Kyouji san, the accused.

Once the young lord declared a start, the only sensation anyone I have spoken to aside from Donoha sama felt was a sense that time had slowed to a crawl. The swordsmen clad in green and red observed each other. Donoha sama reversed their grip upon Mittsu Tamashi as though they were going to draw a tanto! Then both Hanzo san and Tamaki san described the Bayushi bushi as having a slight smile as their cheeks moved.

Then they both disappeared! In their place were small sprays of white snow. Everything between them was a blur of color against a white scroll ready for calligraphy! The Dragon’s arm had swung out wide and allowing the very tip of the black blade with its copper hamon to come to a rest on Komura san’s left temple! A thin trickle of blood running down the side of their face.

With absolutely equal speed the Scorpion’s had made a thrust into Donoha sama’s emerald colored jinbaori (OOC: A surcoat worn traditionally over armor) and yellow hakama-shita (OOC: The shirt you wear with Hakama leggings) beneath it. His mint juban-shitagi (OOC: The under-shirt kimono) had not been touched!

Fate, and the kami, had favored Donoha sama yet again! It seems Otaku Gunba san’s prayers were heard. For the two duelists it was as though they had become a single sculpture. With slow, graceful movements they separated and Bayushi Koruma san turned and walked over to show the trickle of blood running down his face. Kitsuki Donoha sama used three zanshin (OOC: State of Awareness) stances to back up and sheath Mittsu Tamashi. Brushing the tip lighty through the snow to remove any blood. The Scorpion was his equal and he knew his opponent would appreciate the honor showed to him.

The Dragon then stepped forward to show the cut garments. Next, he removed his left left arm and bared his torso. No mark was upon him! Several things began to happen at this moment. However, the “ichi-maru” or “first glance” in Low Rokugani is famous for not letting things escape Kitsuki Donoha sama’s attention.

For the Dragon investigator this was the actual moment of truth. How would the three react now that the challenge had been won. In truth he felt that he’d already learned the measure of the Scorpion as an honorable man. Now came the younger Dragon and the Crane. Doji Kyouji eyes had gone wide, as Donoha sama had seen many times before – shock, horror, and disbelief!

He ran.

Having not been given the permission to leave or the young lord’s verdict Donoha sama did move to follow, he used this time to slide his arm back into his clothing and survey the scene unfolding around him. Not just with his eyes but with his ears. He noticed Shosuro Hanzo san reach into one of his pocket sleeves and pull something out. As he gaze returned to the fleeing Crane he heard what sounded similar to a bow string, but he was certain Hanzo san did not have a bow stashed in their kimono! Still full of mystery the Scorpion was.

As the Crane came into view his friends were beginning to move but the Crane looked something had hit him! No arrows were sticking out of him which made Donoha excited at world. There was always something new to learn about. The Crane tried to move a few more steps and then fell face first into the snow.

Between Isawa Tamaki san, Otaku Gunba san, Agasha Tamori san, and Taro san at the young lord’s direction. The Crane courtier was taken into custody as Mirumoto Renjiro declared the winner and stated he wished to dine with Donoha sama and Koruma san as honored guests. He expected the Phoenix, Unicorn, and Scorpion to attend as well. To Agasha Tamori san, Haru san, and Tetsuo san invitations were extended but not a requirement. With that he returned to the castle and left everyone, Bayushi Koruma san was right behind him.

When Donoha sama caught up to everyone that had taken the Doji into custody. The group had them tied up and they were still unconscious. Hanzo san had supervised the tying technique Taro san used. Apparently he provided Haru san with tea that helps with going to sleep. That should keep their prisoner subdued and compliant.

Heading into the castle food had already been prepared for whomever the victor would have been. Donoha sama and Koruma san sat on either side of the young lord. While the others sat across from them. Renjiro sama mentioned needing to ask a favor and Donoha sama replied that if it please the young lord he would like to ask one as well, in private.

After the meal the young lord asked for Tamaki san, Gunba san, and Hanzo san to make sure to take Doji Kyouji san with them back to the Emperor’s Gift. This way his own clan could pass judgement upon him. He did not want to task Donoha sama with this extra burden after he uncovered the crime and proved his case. They agreed and then he offered to meet with Donoha on the balcony so they could discuss his request.

While they were gone the Phoenix shugenja asked the Scorpion bushi if they would like to keep the scar. Koruma san asked for it to me kept and he would have his hair shorn on that side to preserve it. Gunba san was quiet through most of this as he had been trying to get sleep and had been interrupted by the duel. Hanzo san was helping them by engaging them in conversation.

On the balcony Donoha sama explained the mine, the five nemurani, the jade gift of Osano-Wo. Then he went on about its connection to the events of his father’s murder. Renjiro sama queried if he was worried about the Scorpion, and got a flat affirmative as a reply. Having a jade mine was going to change things. The young lord asked about his family’s copper mine and Donoha sama confirmed they stilled maintained it. He asked for letters of introduction and aid. Donoha sama also offered to request his dueling instructor, Mirumoto Uesugi san, to help hire and rebuild the forces of the city.

Finally, the young lord mentioned he intended to take Agasha Tamori san as an advisor but he would tell them both about the jade. Donoha sama asked him to wait one day and visit with his father at the rebuilt shrine. Then on the following day whatever decision he decided would be the right one for him. They formed a bond of friendship and allies as they returned inside.

The meal was over and Tamaki san half carried Gunba san back to the house they were using, so the Unicorn could finally sleep. It was decided that in three days they would travel to the mine while Agasha Tamori san and Bayushi Koruma san would watch over the city. So, over the next three days from the 27th of Bayushi (Month of the Rooster {OOC: October}) to the 1st of Shinjo (Month of the Dog {OOC: November}). Donoha sama worked at Haru san’s forge and made two items.

He made for Bayushi Koruma san a kogatana knife with a custom kozuka out of iron. In the kozuka is engraved a dragon grabbing the pincers of a scorpion. He wasn’t worried about him needing to have a new saya made to fit it into his katana. It was a city of craftspeople after all.

Next, he made a set of iron chopsticks with gold inlayed to make them appear as though they’d been repaired with kintsugi. It was a deeply layered gift for the young daimyo on how he came to power. Given how his father had been poisoned and the mine he was to maintain. It would never let him forget that he was no longer a youth.

They arrived at Serpent’s Tail Mine in the late afternoon of 2nd of Shinjo (Month of the Dog {OOC: November}). Jiro san was confirmed as the headman by Renjiro sama. Next, he was shown around the site with a complete tour. Going over the repairs, nemurani, the shrine, and on the following morning the jade mine. Donoha then made a request to take 10 fingers worth of jade and the un-tainted obsidian, which was granted.

Doji Kyouji during this time was being kept passive and in a 20 shaku deep pit made by the magic of Isawa Tamaki san. The first night they had sprung it on the prisoner as a surprise and the fall caused him to break their arm. Donoha sama went and retrieved the kimono’s from the Doji’s residence in the city. He gave one over to Tamaki san to make into a sling for the arm. The Dragon took immense joy in seeing the Crane watch as the kimono was torn asunder to make the sling.

It took another three days to arrive at Tall Pine Village in the evening of the 5th of Shinjo (Month of the Dog {OOC: November}). During the trek to the village Donoha sama spent the time teaching Taro san the basics of reading and calligraphy. He wanted to make sure he did not end up like his bother and tried to get him excited about learning. He hoped it would allow him to succeed Jiro san as the mine’s headman one day.

The group settles into the Pine Needle Retreat Tea House while the Doji is watched over by Taro san and Tetsuo san. The Pine Needle Retreat Tea House is a cozy establishment offering fine teas, hearty meals, and modest but clean rooms for weary travelers. The tea house is adorned with wooden carvings of pine branches and traditional paper lanterns that glow warmly in the evenings, making it a hub of activity and hospitality in the village.

The proprietor, Hoshi san, is a short, wiry man in his late fifties, with a face weathered by years of laughter and worry. Was quick to make sure the samurai were seated and that food and drink would be forth coming. Their apprentice, Miko san, was the one to bring it out. However, Miko san had an issue of rushing and being clumsy when excited. Soon her nature roused the curiosity of the two shugenja.

While the Unicorn and the Phoenix consulted the kami about the serving girl’s nature. Donoha sama met with the village headman, Sanjiro san, and arranged for lodgings. It seems Gunba san had already dealt with the horses before coming in. The headman mentioned he would let those outside know where to go and then come back to escort them when they were ready to rest.

While they awaited the headman’s returned the group was entertained by Tamae san, a traveling entertainer with an array of hand-painted fans and a repertoire of folktales and songs. Tonight was special because she was retelling a new tail she’d picked up in the Phoenix lands. It was “In Defense of Honor” and Donoha sama’s face flushed when she began.

Hanzo san was having and amazing time with the food and tea brought, having developed new favorite dishes. Being regaled with Donoha sama’s history was sweet drizzle on the mochi to him. Tamaki had taken the time to compose a haiku for the pretty apprentice, Miko san.

Porcelain teacups,
Graceful hands, a gentle spill
Charm in her chaos.

While Gunba san had gotten the water kami to play a game with any liquids Miko san carried. They would just not spill! Every time she had an accident the liquid would just fall back into the cup she was carrying. He even made her a small charm that would reverse her fortunes. Given her clumsy nature it seem to balance her out.

Soon, Sanjiro san would return to take them to the house they were to be lodged in. Tamaki san made the Doji’s special, deep, bed and Tetsuo san kept watch trading out with Taro san. Before leaving Donoha sama made sure that the headman would pass on a message to Tamae san. That the owner of Mittsu Tamashi was in town and wished to speak with her. Not more than an hour of the day later was there a rap upon the door.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 15

Posted on July 9, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Visions of Love, Benten’s Bloom

23rd of Akoko in 1123 (Month of the Horse) – Matsu Shànzi (yep, that’s me) was watching from the side and behind all SEVEN of the Emerald Ambassadors as Donoha sama tried to take a step while holding the unconscious Doji Hoto sama. Their was a brief 3 seconds where his eyes shut and he looked like he might fall over. Then he came back to his senses. He slid Hoto sama’s right arm over his shoulders and held it with his right hand. His left arm around Hoto sama’s more lithe and graceful frame. Under the Crane’s left arm and putting his left hand on the back of Hoto sama’s neck. Bracing his left foot on Hoto sama’s right foot both he and the unconscious Crane made deep bow. It looked as though he was refusing to let Hoto or the Crane clan look unable to be polite even in this moment.

Upon standing he cocked his head slightly to the side and gave an almost imperceptible bow of his head before speaking.

“Indeed, it’s finished, and we killed the Oni responsible.”

In my life I can say I have never seen a single samurai make SEVEN damiyo, and everyone else present gasp audibly with a single sentence! In courtier circles, Donoha sama, is going to be known as Ryuū Ōtsuchi 龍 大槌 (Dragon Hammer) for the way he delivers news. The information hit everyone with blunt force trauma, shock, and awe.

The Ambassadors exchange glances, turn to quickly talk, spin to make immediate demands on the situation. They want the scene cleared. They want the two samurai quarantined and given jade petal tea, as well as a review by the Kuni witchhunter present in the caravan. After cleansing is ensured, they will convene at the Ambassador’s Circle to debrief.

At the Ambassador’s Circle: all of the Emerald Ambassadors turn their attention to Donoha sama. “You’ve had an interesting morning Kistuki san, Doji san.” commented Mirumoto Tanetsu sama.

“Oddly enough, all before having rice, sama,” he replied with a bow of the head.

Hida Mikoro sama gave a playful sounding harumph, crossing their arms. Hida Mikoro motioned for the Kuni shugenja to come forward. Once there, Hida sama said, “If he lies, embellishes, or omits the truth, we need to know.”

The Kuni nodded and the Scorpion’s Emerald Ambassador stepped forward mentioning he’s had some experience at ferreting out liars.

The Kuni a crystal pendant about to fingers thick was produced and walked over, “Please say that the sky is a color that it is not.” Donoha sama nodded and looked up. The kuni made sure he was holding the crystal so all could see it. Donoha remarked the sky was green. The crystal turned black before everyone!

“Now admit the lie I asked you to say, please Kitsuki san,” the Kuni shugenja asked once more. As Donoha admitted he was asked to lie and did so. The crystal became clear again!

All of the Emerald Ambassadors nodded that this was acceptable. “Kitsuki san,” stated Emerald Ambassador Kitsu Tsuguri sama of the Lion Clan, “We have the skin of a once human creature and I am told by your scribe. This skin kimono and the creature that wore it are responsible for the death of Matsu Yoko? As well as, by the account of this scroll…(holds the record of names of spirits)…many others prior?”

Shiba Sono sama could be overheard mentioning one or two of the names were 80 years ago! In the brothers case 120 years ago! Kitsu Tsuguri sama spoke, “Now, Kitsuki san, please spare no detail. The area is being kept clear of anyone not needed for this scenario. Start at whatever you consider the beginning.”

“Yes sama.”

With the Kuni standing a few feet away Donoha began an exhaustive recollection, thanks to his amazing memory, of the events from when he noticed Matsu Yoko’s leg from under a bush. A copy of the painting he had made to show people was on a table next to the scrolls. A number of the Emerald Ambassadors remarked his style was very life like, and unlike anything they had seen before.

He mentioned being ordered to take the next day off and relax, pausing long enough to ask if they wanted to know about that, but that it had nothing to do with Matsu Yoko san’s murder. He was permitted to skip the day he had spent helping Bayushi Akiyama san, Isawa Kyoko san, and Shiba Ogawa san.

Donoha sama mentioned trying to find more courtly methods to conduct investigations realized he lacked the evidence to convict the gardener, Nichibotsu. He high light Doji Hoto sama seeing through the deception forcing the Oni to attack by directly provoking it with a duel.

He explained how he figure out it was trying to channel the ring of Void and let them feel the honor of their souls. Hoto sama had used a greeting at court where their hand would stop in the ghost at their heart. The ghost would then glow as though the light of Amateratsu was showing them the way back to the celestial order! They would remember their name and ascend. Donoha mentioned his katana, Mittsu Tamashi, which he gestured to and asked permission to draw it so he could show them. A few looked to the crystal in the Kuni’s hand and then gave him the go ahead.

He slowly drew his sword and took the hammer from the front of his obi. He showed them he placed Mittsu Tamashi on top of his Oath hammer and push them into the ghost and ask them to remember. They glow golden and ascend after stating they remembered their name. He then put the katana and hammer away and continued on. He spent a fair amount of time on the architecture becoming more like a stone castle room on the second floor down.

When describe the third floor every single Emerald Ambassador looked at the crystal in the Kuni’s hand multiple times. When he mentioned using his grappling hook he patted a tied his sword should to the opposite hip. It was clear to all what he was getting at since he mentioned it in the beginning as to his preparations after tea this early morning. He apologized that while they saved the tamashi (souls) in the orbs focusing on their void and honor. They did not get any additional names.

He mentioned between the first and second orb was the first they heard the Oni threatening them to leave or terrible things were implied to await them. He mentioned in great detail about the armor plated ox with smoke and fire coming from beneath them. It was then mentioned they had to let the beast attack them to free the tamashi in the second orb!

The Crab’s Emerald Ambassador asked him to continue, as glances to the crystal in the Kuni’s hand continued. Donoha sama turned back around and then spoke of Doji Hoto sama’s slicing of a limb with his Kakita blade! Next he mentioned the jump onto the pillar and pushing himself high into the air as the Oni reared back on two legs. He then said he split it from head to crotch!

Next came the fact the flesh parts turned back to stone but the eye shapes are still in the stone walls on the third floor. He talked about how they came back up and here we are. He bowed again and said the Case of Matsu Yoko’s death has been resolved.

Kitsu Tsuguri sama asked for Doji Hoto to recount from his perspective what he observed, what he took away, and anything he felt had been omitted thus far. The Kuni shugenja moved in front of him with the truth crystal and the Crane began their recounting. It was clear Hoto sama had changed and was proud of doing this on his own without relying on the name of his father. He was rightfully proud of his accomplishments alongside Donoha sama. He praised Donoha’s efforts in the investigation and while his explanations were more colorful, not one was a lie.

Phoenix Ambassador will speak to Donoha, noting that he was void-touched when he returned, but Hoto was not. What transpired to create that distinction? The Kuni shugenja moved back to Donoha for their reply.

OH MY FORTUNES! You’re not going to want to miss this!

He told everyone assembled about what “actually” happened when he looked dizzy coming out of the Oni’s lair. So Donoha ended up in the spirit world and ran into his love, the Phoenix maiden! She’s being trained in the mystic arts and he was able to let her know about Genji san, the missing letters, and that he’s stayed chaste for her! He said the only thing that could break that would be an ordered marriage. He would want to make sure they were happy as well. Especially if they were not excited about the arrangement. She understood and accepted that!

LOVE WINS!!!!!!
He also learned about the alluded to person going by Doji Hengo and how they fell to shadow. He also noted that he found it hard to believe a member of the Doji family ever being so destitute. Each of the four visions recounted a moment of Hengo “san” saving his sister and the Dark one coming to the child’s aid and corrupting them over time! How despicable is that!

He also publicly announced that, “I CAN FINALLY WRITE IT” Chiasa was the name of the Phoenix maiden he fallen in love with on his gempukku! He delivered it with a statement of fact tone and moved on. Going on to describe that while he is not certain it appeared to him Chiasa maybe in training to become an Oracle of one of the elements!

The crystal remained clear.

 

 

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!