Tag: Taro

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 44

Posted on January 12, 2025 by Shanzi Matsu

Herbalist Assessments Lead to Duel Inspiring Accusations

They entered the pantry from the home of the Doji attendant to the young lord. The Scorpion courtier checked the herbs hanging as they had practiced herbal medicine. Nothing in here could do any more harm than making food taste bad at the least. At the most causing incontinence if taken in a large enough dose or a prolonged period.

Seeing the home was not well lit, Donoha sama took a lantern and handed it to Hanzo san. Asking him to see about getting it lit and bringing it back. While the Scorpion was away the Dragon began checking the front room and found nothing of note. Moving through the main hallway to the back residence wing they came upon a small family shrine. A number of small haiku were kept upon it among some incense burning in a bowl. Donoha sama quietly chuckled to themself about the light source he had sent Hanzo san on an errand for.

When Hanzo san returned with the Crane’s ornately made and now lit lantern. He found the Dragon in a room filled with stands, each holding an incredibly ornate kimono. Each were thoroughly searched to make sure nothing had been hidden within the stands, sleeve pockets, or the lining. From there they moved to the residential room in the back of the abode.

Behind a shoji screen in the room, Donoha sama found a covered plant. He asked Hanzo san to check it out and discovered it was a yama kaji 山火事 pierisu, or mountain fire pierisu on low Rokugani. Once the Scorpion saw this they put gloves on! While the plant could come in many colors the red flowers is what earned this version the name – mountain fire.

The Dragon asked the Scorpion why the need for gloves, and he mentioned it was his herbalist training. Explaining the plant was found in many gardens throughout the empire because of the color and beauty it can have. However, his teachers explained that it could not be cultivated for teas or food. Ingesting even one piece of the flower or leaf can cause voracious amounts of drool, headaches, and vomiting. Any more than that has been known to cause spasms and death. What Hanzo san said he was unsure about is if physical contact would do the same thing.

Donoha sama had the Scorpion cover the plant up and they left the Crane’s dwelling, with Hanzo san safe-guarding the plant. Intent to go and check out the domicile of Bayushi Koruma san. He now knew why the cook the former lord favored had been made to help. He knew the Crane was involved and he needed to know if they were working with the Scorpion.

During the time of the investigation Otaku Gunba san had walked over toward Tetsuo san and Haru san. Wanting to casually speak with them about what he felt in stillness and how he thinks his senses could feel yet further. They felt comfortable doing so after being in a conversation with Haru san and Donoha sama about working on some smith work in the next day or two. Taro san had been hanging around the two shugenja after noticing Donoha sama disappearing into the Crane’s house. Isawa Tamaki san kept their watch on both the pool fed by the waterfall and the road back to the castle.

As the Dragon and the Scorpion emerged his new master suggested the boy hang out around both Tetsuo san and Haru san. There was a tone in his voice that Taro san had heard from people in charge many times when trying to phrase an order as a request. He fell in step behind them until he saw the two monks and dutifully broke off to follow the command. He tried to absorb any wisdom they might discuss but Haru san, the former Mantis samurai was reflecting on the errors of their life, including some time as a pirate.

Tamaki san had informed the Dragon and the Scorpion that Gunba san had gone to lay down to be ready for watch tonight. The three samurai went to collect their fourth member before going into Koruma san’s rather modest, single room dwelling. Hanzo san tried to warn Donoha sama about the little things a member of their clan would leave in a room to know if it was touched or disturbed in some fashion. However, the Dragon slid the door as wide open as he could and made it clear he wanted people to know he walked into two homes because there were no ashigaru or samurai guarding this place.

In a box that had a puzzle locked compartment in the lid Donoha sama found two scrolls. Upon checking them both he instantly recognized the writing he saw in the Crane’s home. It was the same handwriting from the haikus on the family shrine! The first scroll detailed to a mentor how they had gotten control of the young lord and would soon rule the city of Mountain’s Anvil through them as a puppet. The mentor’s reply cautioned this was a risky path to attempt. Then they laid out some steps to try in the second scroll!

Inside he also found some candies that Hanzo san confirmed were just what they appeared to be. It would seem this particular Scorpion bushi had a sweet tooth. The Dragon gathered up the candies and tucked them into his kimono. The group headed back to the loaned house to discuss everything and make their next move. That meeting ended with Donoha sama saying, “Time to go and pick a fight.”

I feel as the author I should remind my readers that if you meet the Dragon Investigator and they looked pleased with themselves. The same way the Ise Zumi monks of the Togashi family look before they leap off a cliff! Guard yourselves because if they have a tell when a plan is going their way, it is that. Now thinking that makes them predictable would be a mistake, it makes him dangerous. When he told me the next part of the story he had that look! He got exactly what he wanted from that encounter.

Few people can say they out maneuvered a Doji in ANY court within the Emerald Empire. Kitsuki Donoha sama is one of them. No one in that room expected the Dragon Inquisition! They were invited in and he flatly explained to the servant that he had found out how the lord actually died. He bid them let their lord know and they were quickly shown upstairs! He delivered the news with all the gracefulness of a two-handed tetsubo crushing in your opponent’s face.

The accusation of the Crane courtier was as swift as his exoneration of the Scorpion bushi. His flourish for the Scorpion and the young Dragon lord was tossing the candies at the older bushi mentioning, “I believe these belong to you.” The Kitsuki had thrown oil on the fire and just stood there to watch the social fire burn. Waiting patiently for the moment he wanted since he learned of the foul play. The Crane was as offended as you could expect and demanded trial by combat. The young lord quieted everyone and stated that Koruma san would stand in as the yojimbo for Kyouji san. A duel would be set up behind the castle and in front of the shrine. Everyone was to meet there in one half hour of the day.

As they were leaving Hanzo san was going to watch the exits of the city in case the Crane tried to flee but the Unicorn shugenja was quick to point out that would cause him to die on the road. Otaku Gunba went on to engaged their Phoenix counterpart while making their way out of the main castle doors, “Tamaki-sama, what a great time to inspect the shrine… what do you think? Maybe a half-hour?”

While the two shugenja headed off towards the shrine, and Hanzo san pursued their concerns. Donoha sama took the time to have tea with Agasha Tamori san, Haru san, Tetsuo san. Taro san waited patiently in the corner of the room. He brought everyone up to speed as they enjoyed tea together. Afterwards he spent time crafting another haiku.

Steel clashes in night,
Dragon roars, Scorpion stings,
One will fall to shade.

As everyone gathered for the duel. Hanzo san noticed the Unicorn shugenja offering quiet prayers to Osano-Wo and his attention through this storm. All present watching as they determine the fate of his child.

Scroll of Kitsuki Donoha Part 43

Posted on January 1, 2025 by Shanzi Matsu

Mysteries Deepen Upon Murder Most Foul

Tetsuo san provided more details about how the father died at the shrine behind the governor’s castle. Apparently, the former governor is the one that broke the shrine behind the castle as he died. That happened three months ago. Which just happen to coincide with the time table at the Serpent’s Tail mine! This information from Haru san was getting progressively more complex. Also, during this time the peasant chef the former lord was fond of disappeared! This was quickly turning from a string of coincidences to a plot to seize power. Quite possibly through the young, acting, governor.

It was decided to sleep in shifts tonight and Donaha sama was quick to volunteer for the second watch. Hanzo san offered to take the second watch and show the Dragon how the Scorpion fight. The Unicorn shugenja opted to go and meditate at the waterfall. One other very odd scenario noticed by a few members of the troupe, no guards patrolling the city. Hanzo san mention they would check on this as Gunba san left the loaned house for the waterfall in the light snowfall. As everyone began to settle down, night crashed upon the mountain city.

Upon his return Gunba san asked him in what direction he had wandered as he heard a person walk from one location to another behind him. Had there not been snow this might have escaped his notice. Alas he was in the middle of meditation and the steps never came closer to him. The Scorpion mentioned he would tell Donoha sama, but he had to wake him to go over some techniques for his sparring match tomorrow.

Donoha sama roused at the touch from Hanzo san. When the Scorpion tried to begin explaining things in earnest. The Dragon stopped mentioning he was good with a sword, but even he did not want to practice anything in a room full of sleeping people. They share a smile and Hanzo san took him to the shrine he had passed during his wanderings behind the castle. Taking one of the two bokken wooden swords Donoha sama carried he began to go over how a Scorpion bushi would attack.

Wielding the other bokken and Chikai kodzuchi 誓い小槌 the Oath-hammer in his off hand. The wakizashi from his tied to his back to be access from his left shoulder. While the jade katana was tied to his back for access from the right shoulder. Thus making it clear he had no intention of using the jade katana. Mittsu Tamashi 三魂 the Three Souls Katana was still on his left hip in his obi. Hanzo san came after him again and again.

After some time Donoha asked him to use the shorter, straight sword he seemed fond of. The Scorpion agreed but had to clean it in the snow first for some reason. It looked as though it had an acid etched blade similar to his making it dark. However, it seemed to come off much easier than he suspected it should. Perhaps he’d not kept up on its maintenance. Regardless, once he was done the Dragon took the center stance and told him to strike him!

It was clear in an instant that Hanzo san had his own skill with the blade as he did manage to strike him, and leave a scratch. When the Dragon launched into action as a reply he deliberately struck the hand holding the blade so hard it went flying. He left a scratch with the wooden blade that matches the damage done by real weapon of his opponent! Hanzo san tried to apply a powder to Donoha sama’s scratch. While he appreciated the offer he told him he felt fine. In truth, Donoha sama learned everything he’d wanted to know about Hanzo san and his skills. Quietly, he wondered whom was more deadly, Shosuro Hanzo san or Bayushi Airi san.

Hanzo san, went to head and bed down. This finally allowed Donoha to focus on the other item that had caught his attention. The state of the shrine that was designed for communal use so any number of fortunes or kami could be honored at it. The one at the mine had been damaged far worse, but if he grabbed his supplies he could fix this completely – tonight! He finished about a full hour of the day before sunrise. He had found incense and lit offerings to Earth, Fire for the shrine. Water for the city, and to the fortune of Osano-Wo. Since the event at the shrine clearly had ties here he would meditate and recover his spirit if he could not get sleep.

Having used the last of his adhesives kit, the Dragon headed back after the glory of Amaterasu’s gaze touched his face. Hanzo san was very concerned about him not getting enough sleep and made some tea that should hold him over for a few hours of the day. Taro san was tasked with holding his two bokken while he left the jade katana upon the missives and then piled his armor on top. Kitagawa-neko sama took rest upon the pile like a watch-dog.

Gearing up to poke this administration to see what might shake loose between the Crane and the Scorpion. More than a little worried the young governor that might have helped to murder his father in a power grab. He had to start figuring out where everyone stood on the father. The group headed over to the governor’s castle and a different servant let them in and bid them toward the stairs.

The expected three were waiting and rice among other dishes were laid out as everyone waited for their arrival. While all of the pleasantries were maintained, Donoha sama knew the Doji and the Bayushi would not miss the unspoken message. Donoha sama had knelt to eat and chat about the morning but his katana was still in his obi on his left, his wakizashi was in the back, and the hammer was in the front. The grace he showed eating all the while being armed sent an unspoken message about how he felt in this home!

The young governor did not mention anything about it, so he mentioned having repaired the complete shrine behind the castle. It was clear the topic pained the young lord to discuss and they confirmed his father died there. They confirmed the thrashing about and that was how the shrine fell into disrepair. The more he heard it sounded like poison causing muscle spasms to the Kitsuki investigator and justiciar.

He continued with offering to pray with the young governor at the repaired shrine. Mirumoto Renjiro sama thanked him and said he would think about it. The feeling was a surprise this morning and still hurt more than he would like to admit. However, he was grateful for the offer and then excused everyone as he had topics to discuss with his advisor. Those same advisors were trying to glare tantos at the Dragon subtly, but Donoha sama had been trained to recognize such gestures. Inwardly, he smiled.

The Dragon wished everyone a good day and mentioned to the Bayushi about where they might meet for sparring. He was a little sad to be brushed off but decided not to call him scared for wanting to push off their sparring match. Instead, they mentioned the group was going to talk with the Water Kami about some dark visions they had been having. To most people it would seem like a passing thought, but again the subtext he once more intended for the Crane and the Scorpion. The message was he was not leaving, he was going to be digging into things.

Once outside, the group headed over to the waterfall’s pool. Where Gunba san communed with the Water Kami about the dark vision. What they were able to learn was that a person with an educated manner of speech was coercing a peasant into doing something for them. Also that the person doing the coercion had been here less time than the person being coerced.

This instantly ruled out Haru san and Agasha Tamori san because they founded Suigeki Toshi! While it did not completely rule out the young governor. It certainly pointed closer to the Crane and or the Scorpion as being the one coercing the peasant, and able to make them disappear. Next, Gunba san communed with the Earth Kami to find out the path the person behind him took last night.

A crack appeared in the ground leading from the window of one building, across the city center to the steps of another. Donoha sama stopped a peasant and asked about each building. It turns out the building where the crack stopped at the window belongs to the Doji and the other belongs to the Bayushi. The Dragon thanked them and allowed them to continue on with their day.

Upon examining the window of Doji Kyouji’s domicile it appears something heavy broke the window sill and it had been pushed back together. Opening the window and looking inside revealed a storage area with herbs drying and hung up. Seeing the entrance to the room was inside, Donoha sama headed right up the the door and opened it to head inside. Hanzo san was standing nearby as a look out while Gunba san and Tamaki san stay back closer to the city center and the waterfall for early warning. The game was getting interesting!

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 40

Posted on December 11, 2024 by Shanzi Matsu

Compassion’s Conclusion, Corrective Consequences

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Are you making a statement Itoko-san?”

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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