Session Time: Sat Oct 15 00:00:00 2011
[01:07] * phage (~herp@Rizon-82DA2FE6.dsl.crchtx.sbcglobal.net) has joined #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[01:20] * phage (~herp@Rizon-82DA2FE6.dsl.crchtx.sbcglobal.net) Quit (Remote host closed the connection)
[03:03] * Colette is now known as Doji_Nanako
[03:53] * Lord_Sleepineff13 is now known as Isawa_Sumire
[03:54] * HLeviathan (~HLeviatha@Rizon-973EA2EE.dyn.optonline.net) has joined #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[03:54] * HLeviathan is now known as Asako_Yuzuko
[03:54] * Koishi_ (~satorisan@Rizon-1D283AF2.inwind.it) has joined #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[04:02] <Koishi_> So... What do you do with the Tsuruchi?
[04:13] <Doji_Nanako> "We had come from Nanashi Mura," Nanako explains to the Mantis folk, projecting as much calm as he can muster. "Once you see the rows of cut-down trees and the army encampments, you should know it is there. Tell the Voices and the warlord occupying it that you had met Sun Doru's disciples in the Dragon Heart Plain, that they had given you their blessing, and that you can offer your help in hunting down the Armor of Fuyari. That should help you acquire the traveling papers that you need."
[04:15] <Koishi_> Then bow in agreement. "Might I request a tablet comitting those words, Doji-sama?"
[04:17] * Isawa_Sumire glances to Yuzuko. "Do we have anything to write down what they want?" she asks, while standing a fair distance behind Nanako.
[04:17] * Asako_Yuzuko shrugs. She doesn't have that sort of thing on her.
[04:18] * Isawa_Sumire hmms, and frowns. She doesn't think she has that sort of thing on her either.
[04:20] <Doji_Nanako> "We could commit it to a tablet to strengthen your case..." Nanako concernedly responds. "But alas, I doubt any of us would be carrying a suitable length of wood. Would a scroll be acceptable?"
[04:21] * Isawa_Sumire looks at Yuzuko again. "Do we have any paper?"
[04:21] * Asako_Yuzuko shrugs again. Nope.
[04:21] <Isawa_Sumire> "Hm, thought so."
[04:22] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako makes an affirmative gesture to his companions.
[04:22] <Koishi_> "It would be a more respectable symbol and harder to contest it's legitimacy. But I'm sure a scroll bound by your words would open us all the ways we need to cross."
[04:25] <Doji_Nanako> "We apologize for the lack of appropriate wod for a tablet," Craney-waney offers his sincere regrets.
[04:26] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako lowers his arms, takes a few steps backwards, reuniting with the group. He then sets down his dainty little bag and retrieves a calligraphy kit from it, laying it down upon the ground.
[04:28] <Doji_Nanako> "My handwriting is passable, I think," Nanako unconfidently proclaims to the others. "Would any one of you have a more capable writing hand?"
[04:29] * Asako_Yuzuko shakes her head. She knows how to write properly, but she doubts she can beat a trained courtier.
[04:29] * Retrieving #WarlordsAmbition-ic modes...
[04:30] <Isawa_Sumire> "I am trained only in the very basics of calligraphy, Doji-san. I will try, but only if you feel my skills are better than yours."
[04:31] <Doji_Nanako> "Allow me, then," followed by a very slight say. "May the Lady Doji guide my wrist and my fingers," setting up a makeshift writing surface and prepraring the ink and the brush and etc. etc.
[04:32] <Koishi_> The Tsuruchi bow, thank for the letter and depart.
[04:32] <Doji_Nanako> ... eh, this should be workable.
[04:33] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako hands over the scroll and--oh, wait, they already took it. Swift, those Tsuruchi are.
[04:33] <Koishi_> There are still a pair of hours of light, what the group decides to do?
[04:34] <Doji_Nanako> "It seems that we will need to rest to recover our stamina," Nanako is straightforward with remaining business. "But before we do so, Isawa-sama, could you please send out another messenger bird?"
[04:36] * Isawa_Sumire raises an eyebrow questioningly. "Right now? Let's remember what happened when we sent out one bird, then didn't meet our Tsuruchi in a timely fashion by her reckoning."
[04:37] <Doji_Nanako> "If it could be used to track her general direction, then we could discover that direction and mark a spot on the ground before we sleep." Nanako, perhaps naïvely, suggests. "It would help you preserve your elemental power before you sleep, would it not?"
[04:39] * Isawa_Sumire says bluntly, "My influence with the kami only goes so far. They will only seek her out for a certain distance. If they cannot find her within this range, it is meaningless."
[04:40] <Asako_Yuzuko> "But we don't know that until we try," Yuzuko offers.
[04:41] <Doji_Nanako> "If we attempt it now, and it succeeds, then try it again the next morning, and fail, then we should get an idea of just how far away she is from us, right?"
[04:42] <Isawa_Sumire> "If we try right now, then it would be better to seek her out as quickly as possible. Look at things from her perspective, would you be pleased if some fool kept pestering you with messenger birds?"
[04:43] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Does it matter?" Yuzuko asks, "Her prey is our prey. The effort to avoid us would risk her losing her target."
[04:43] <Doji_Nanako> "Could one of the birds perhaps send no message, and just seek her out?" Nanako curiously queries.
[04:43] <Asako_Yuzuko> "She'd still see it."
[04:44] * Isawa_Sumire crosses her arms, clearly annoyed by the suggestion. "If everyone so insists, I will send a bird right away. But I hold no responsibility for whatever her mood may be if and when we finally do see her."
[04:45] <Doji_Nanako> "Please, do not do so," Nanako concedes calmly. "If you consider it imprudent, then we should accept your judgment. We should simply set up camp and see what can be done to replenish some of our supplies, like our arrows."
[04:48] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako proceeds to gather the weaponry, quiver, and arrows he had laid on the ground while he is at it.
[04:50] <Doji_Nanako> "Would anyone happen to have brought along a source of shade from the elements?" Nanako asks the group, slightly worried.
[04:50] * Asako_Yuzuko looks across the plains.
[04:51] <Asako_Yuzuko> "We should try to find trees or an outcropping if we're going to set up a camp."
[04:51] <Isawa_Sumire> "I carry a small tent with me, a practice I adopted in the Legions. Shelter for whenever the army camps for the night."
[04:51] <Isawa_Sumire> "It can accomodate two people."
[04:53] <Doji_Nanako> "Yes," Nanako nods in agreement with Yuzuko. "We should set up camp in such an area. I wonder if it would be possible to use wood from the trees for fire-hardened arrows..." he idly muses.
[04:53] <Isawa_Sumire> "We'll have to find such an area first."
[04:56] <Doji_Nanako> ~~~~~
[04:56] <Doji_Nanako> Fire~
[04:56] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako has somehow flint and tindered up a firepit.
[04:57] <Doji_Nanako> "We can use this for cooking, for warmth, and perhaps for restoring our ammunition," Nanako points out the obvious in a slightly upbeat tone.
[04:58] <Asako_Yuzuko> "What are we going to cook?"
[05:00] <Doji_Nanako> "I have a week's worth of rations here..." Nanako trails off as he searches his little bag for them. "Most of them can be eaten raw, but cooking might improve their flavor."
[05:00] * Isawa_Sumire opens her traveling pack to take out her tent, then also takes out another bundle. "I have rations as well." she replies.
Session Close: Sat Oct 15 05:02:01 2011

Session Start: Sat Oct 15 05:02:48 2011
Session Ident: #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[05:02] * Now talking in #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[05:06] <Doji_Nanako> Some rice, some fish, some spices, and some very basic materials are laid out by Nanako in front of him.
[05:06] <Doji_Nanako> He sets out to cook a particularly epicurean set of fried rice balls for himself and his allies.
[05:08] <Doji_Nanako> A triad of fist-sized triangular prisms for the silent (maybe scowling?) Takehiko, another trio for Yuzuko, a set of three for Sumire, and the last three pieces for himself.
[05:08] * Isawa_Sumire sits down to have dinner, eating quietly.
[05:09] <Doji_Nanako> "I hope this should be enough to fill our stomachs and keep our bodies' elemental balance in check," Nanako meekly comments aloud.
[05:10] <Koishi_> The fire pierces the silent Plains, a single start shining in the dark expanse.
[05:11] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Itedakimasu!" Yuzuko says enthusiastically.
[05:12] <Doji_Nanako> "Itadakimasu," not eating that dark mouse.
[05:12] <Doji_Nanako> After taking his time and satiating himself with his creation--which he finds quite delicious, although he keeps that to himself for fear of coming off like a braggart Lion--Nanako rises and lightly scans the surrounding area with a passing glance. "Surely, some of these trees should contain wood suitable for arrows."
[05:14] <Doji_Nanako> He should save any arrow fire-hardening business during any shift he might take during the night, Nanako thinks.
[05:16] <Doji_Nanako> "Never mind. We should just rest for now," his volume decreasing.
[05:16] * Asako_Yuzuko simply closes her eyes and smiles dumbly as she enjoys the fire and the food. As good for the soul as meditation, definately.
[05:20] * Isawa_Sumire nods to Nanako. "One thing before we do rest..." she says, looking between Yuzuko, Nanako and Takehiko, "Are any of you feeling any lingering ailment from our fight with the spirits?"
[05:20] * Retrieving #WarlordsAmbition-ic modes...
Session Close: Sat Oct 15 05:21:41 2011

Session Start: Sat Oct 15 05:21:41 2011
Session Ident: #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[05:21] * Disconnected
[05:21] * Attempting to rejoin channel #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[05:22] * Rejoined channel #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[05:22] <Doji_Nanako> "I feel a greater degree of lightness and grace in both body and mind, and..." the emptiness in his soul leading to never finishing his sentence. "Perhaps I might be borrowing some of that spirit's elemental essence?"
[05:23] <Isawa_Sumire> "What about you two? Yuzuko-san. Ikoma-san?"
[05:23] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Still feeling a bit heavy," Yuzuko says.
[05:25] * Isawa_Sumire frowns. "Hmm... those spirits are more insidious than I thought. They were incredibly resilient throughout our battle with them, as if they were drawing strength from somewhere. I didn't realize they were doing so from you."
[05:26] <Koishi_> ou do
[05:27] <Doji_Nanako> "So does that mean that some of us are doing the reverse, siphoning elemental strength from those spirits?" Nanako places a finger on his cheek and turns his eyeballs to the upper left corner.
[05:27] <Isawa_Sumire> "Could be, but how you managed to do that, I do not know."
[05:30] * Isawa_Sumire taps her chin thoughtfully. "If I impart some of my inner elemental energy into all of you, that would probably restore equilibrium. But I don't think I have enough for all three of you right now."
[05:31] <Doji_Nanako> "I do not know myself. It just... happened," Nanako flatly explains.
[05:33] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako subconsciously assumes a demeanor of much soullessness (optionally with dull, flat eyes, but that is improbable).
[05:43] * Isawa_Sumire steps towards Nanako and extends a hand towards the Crane. She closes her eyes and concentrates, channeling some of her last remaining reserves of power to release the spiritual influence that still lingers about Nanako.
[05:44] <Doji_Nanako> In Nanako's eyes, he perceives a flickering flame being doused, its smoke withering away and spiraling out in all directions.
[05:45] <Doji_Nanako> "I hope that released essence helps that restless spirit find its way to proper judgment in Meido," Nanako dully remarks to no one in particular.
[05:45] <Doji_Nanako> He still comes off as a bit soulless in this moment.
[05:47] * Isawa_Sumire nods. "Hopefully so." She then turns to make some spell preparations to herself for standing watch tonight.
[05:48] <Asako_Yuzuko> "I'll take first watch!" Yuzuko volunteers.
[05:48] <Doji_Nanako> "I will take the uncomfortable position of second-to-the-last watch, such that others need not," Nanako valiantly sacrifices his good rest.
[05:49] * Isawa_Sumire remarks after casting Silent Waters on herself, "I'll take the last one. I'll be fully rested then."
[05:49] <Koishi_> As you assume your position, Nanako rests for a while and notices something strange.
[05:49] <Koishi_> Some stones have been rolled over. Things weren't like that before she went to rest.
[05:50] <Koishi_> Someone moved stood there... not long ago.
[05:50] <Koishi_> Watching Yuzuko's watch and you sleep.
[05:51] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako moves back towards where everyone is sleeping, wary-wary. He does not awaken everyone, but he is ready to should something appear in the dead of night to assault them.
[05:52] <Doji_Nanako> He keeps his back to the tent.
[05:52] * phage (~herp@11C51238.BABA3E31.BEF4043F.IP) has joined #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[05:52] <Koishi_> Nobody shows itself.
[05:52] <Koishi_> But it is clearly to Nanako.
[05:52] <Koishi_> Someone was there and left
[05:53] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako waits out his entire watch, then awakens Sumire just as hers is supposed to start.
[05:54] <Doji_Nanako> "Isawa-sama?" Over her ear in the tent. "Isawa-sama?"
[05:54] <Doji_Nanako> "Isawa-sama?"
[05:55] * Isawa_Sumire sits up a bit dishevelled. "I'm awake, what is it?" she mumbles.
[05:56] <Doji_Nanako> "There was an intruder within the camp as we had slept," Nanako explains with shaky calm. "I was presumably away as I had taken watch, but judging from the positions of the stones that had been disturbed, the intruder had inspected this camp and promptly departed."
[05:56] <Doji_Nanako> "Please be wary during your watch, Isawa-sama," he concernedly implores her before setting himself up for rest in the tent.
[05:57] * Isawa_Sumire straightens her hair and her clothing as she gets up. "I will. Thank you for the warning."
[05:58] * phage has actually been losing sleep!  see, in insulting the dead, he may have crossed his own shifty line.
[06:00] * phage (~herp@11C51238.BABA3E31.BEF4043F.IP) Quit (Remote host closed the connection)
[06:01] <Koishi_> Sumire finds no movement during her watch, and the Jade Sun soon rises.
[06:01] <Koishi_> It is time to continue... but in which direction?
[06:01] * Isawa_Sumire turns to the others and gives a wake-up call. "On your feet, everyone! The Jade Sun has risen."
[06:02] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Murrrrrr," Yuzuko mumbles as she shuffles about in her makeshift bed.
[06:02] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako looses a medium-pitched, subconscious humming for two seconds before rising and rubbing his eyes.
[06:06] <Doji_Nanako> "In which direction are we to continue our search, Isawa-sama?" goes the inquisitive Nanako after reorienting and fully awakening himself.
[06:07] <Doji_Nanako> "Also, everyone, it seems that there was an intruder within our campsite as we had slept," he explains to Takehiko and Yuzuko. "I was presumably away as I had taken watch, but judging from the positions of the stones that had been disturbed, the intruder had inspected this camp and promptly departed. We should be careful as we traverse this plain, for we have watchers."
[06:07] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Ao?" Yuzuko sleepily inquires, just now putting on her armor, "Can we track them?"
[06:07] * Isawa_Sumire opens her scroll-case and unfurls the scroll for Legacy of Kaze-no-Kami. "Keep in mind, this has the potential to make us even more lost than before, and if it does lead us to Tsuruchi Kita, she will be furious."
[06:08] * macrophage (para@DAA0193F.A2D4487E.966FDD6B.IP) has joined #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[06:09] <Doji_Nanako> "Now that you mention it..." Nanako interrupts Sumire. "We may be able to follow the trail of the intruder, rather than searching for Tsuruchi Kita. It would ensure our safety in the long term, and the intruder might have been Tsuruchi Kita herself."
[06:09] * macrophage is now known as Ikoma_Takehiko
[06:10] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako heads back to the disturbed, rolled stones and looks for a trail.
[06:10] <Koishi_> The intruder seems to have come from somewhere south... but it was a decoy. A fake trail. He went north and it seems he has been moving all night. At impossible speed.
[06:10] * Ikoma_Takehiko continues to meditate all by his lonesome, until disturbed.
[06:11] * Isawa_Sumire nods, but stands at the ready with her scroll out, just in case.
[06:12] <Doji_Nanako> "There seems to be a fake trail heading south... how clever," Nanako respectfully appraises using inordinate wilderness survival skills. "The true trail heads north. So, I believe you can save your scroll for now, Isawa-sama." He subtlely gestures in a northerly direction. "Let us follow the north wind , then."
[06:12] <Doji_Nanako> (South wind, actually, if that is what blows northwards.)
[06:16] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako secures his bow to his back and his six-arrow-strong quiver to his hip, and eagerly takes a brisk stride in said direction.
[06:18] * Isawa_Sumire packs her prayer scroll back and prepares to follow the trail.
[06:19] * Asako_Yuzuko finally has everything packed and ready to go.
[06:20] <Koishi_> The trail goes on and on - a good side effect of the speed of the prey.
[06:20] <Koishi_> A group appears on the horizon, comming on the opposite direction.
[06:20] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako is currently the on-screen character in this trek on the overworld map. He eagerly str--
[06:20] <Koishi_> They are six men, riding ponies.
[06:20] <Koishi_> They wear no banners.
[06:21] <Doji_Nanako> He fetches his bow from his back, strings it, and informs the others, "Be wary, all. The riders before us carry no banners, so..." slightly nervous.
[06:21] <Doji_Nanako> *nervously
[06:22] <Doji_Nanako> His bow is held in his left hand, by his side, as he stops in his tracks.
[06:22] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa." Yuzuko leaves her bow on her back. She'd rather not waste arrows right now.
[06:23] * Isawa_Sumire takes out a scroll from her satchel.
[06:24] <Koishi_> The riders seems to get closer and they slow down as they approach. Their mounts are tired and half-starved, but their riders seem in good health and well equiped. Sure, his clothing is rugged and dirty, but their blades are sharp.
[06:25] * Ikoma_Takehiko finally decides to catch up, bow and arrows(borrowed from yuzuko earlier) in tow. Time to see what the hell was staring at them.
[06:25] <Koishi_> They keep distance, trying to outmaneuver you all.
[06:25] * Asako_Yuzuko stands her ground. If they want to go around to avoid them that's perfectly fine.
[06:27] <Doji_Nanako> "We are the disciples of Sun Doru, on a mission from Nanashi Mura to track down the Armor of Fuyari," Nanako openly proclaims with faked confidence. "Might you have any ability to assist us in our quest, or do you stand against us?"
[06:27] * Ikoma_Takehiko is about to suggest they play nice, when....how pleasant, the Doji has done it for him. Splendid!
[06:27] * Isawa_Sumire keeps her eyes on the riders carefully.
[06:28] <Doji_Nanako> He hates himself for how he just asked if a group of people if they wish to fight. It is not his nature, but the school taught him to say things like that...
[06:28] <Koishi_> They don't seem to hear Nanako, but they seem to be aware of an attempt to talk with them. One of them turns back and rides towards you. He puts his sword back.
[06:29] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako repeats his exact same words, with the exact same faked confidence and the exact same internal self-loathing. "We are the disciples of Sun Doru, on a mission from Nanashi Mura to track down the Armor of Fuyari," Nanako delineates with high volume and high pitch. "Might you have any ability to assist us in our quest, or do you stand against us?"
[06:30] * Isawa_Sumire ponders.
[06:32] <Koishi_> "I am Zul." Says the man, approaching. He dismounts and bows. "Of the otokodate of the Disciples of Sun Tao. We seek those they call Sun Doru."
[06:33] <Isawa_Sumire> "Hmm... that one doesn't look like the gaijin that's been plaguing Phoenix lands of late." she says quietly to herself. "Ah, that explains things..."
[06:33] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Disciples of Sun Tao.  Well!", Takehiko grins broadly.  How lucky can they be!?
[06:33] * Asako_Yuzuko is simply a bit confused by this development.
[06:34] <Doji_Nanako> "This must be a coincidence conspired by the Fortunes," Nanako faux-happily remarks to this Zul person, "for the ronin general Sun Doru is our lord, and we had come from where he currently holds camp, the ronin village of Nanashi Mura."
[06:35] <Koishi_> The man smiles. "Fortune smiles indeed. From Disciple to Disciple, it seems we share common goals."
[06:36] <Doji_Nanako> "Surely, these common goals are grounds for us to ally with one another to achieve what we seek, rather than clash and draw needless bloodshed," Nanako weaves calm words as he places his hands over his heart.
[06:36] <Doji_Nanako> Well, one hand, given that his left is on his bow...
[06:37] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Well, that's not necessarily true, now.  Just what -are- our friend's goals?", let's not pick up a bunch of shady people just because of their names, now.
[06:37] * Isawa_Sumire lowers her scroll, but keeps it still in her hand. "Hm... I really do hope they're willing to help us search for Fuyari's Armor."
[06:38] <Koishi_> "The Disciples of Sun Tao have to make a stance." Zul announces. "Me and my companions believe that we must lend our arms to any men that claim Sun Tao's legacy. But which one shall our group follow? I say the one appointed by the Daughter of Heaven. We want to join him."
[06:40] <Doji_Nanako> "Are there any who claim Sun Tao's legacy other than the one named Sun Doru?" Nanako's interest is sincerely piqued, and he pours such into his voice.
[06:40] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "I see.  That is very interesting.  So you were seeking us out?"
[06:40] <Koishi_> "Not you, fellow disciples per see. But your lord commander."
[06:41] <Koishi_> Zul seemed to ponder. "I must tell my companions the good news, should then worry without need."
[06:41] <Koishi_> *they
[06:44] <Koishi_> He bows, climbs his horse again and rejoins the others.
[06:44] <Doji_Nanako> "Could you please expound on what you had implied by which person to--
[06:44] <Doji_Nanako> "Could you please expound on what you had implied by which person to swear allegiance to?" Nanako interrupts him as he mounts. "You seemed to bring up a very interesting point."
[06:45] <Koishi_> "Many conflicts happen. Many paths open and not all are clear. We just want to be sure we have the right man." Zul says.
[06:46] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa? Does that mean there's another one?"
[06:46] <Doji_Nanako> "I understand, Zul-sama," offering a bow, deeper than Nanako must, before he rides off. "It seems that there are frauds of Sun Tao's legacy, Yuzuko-san. I cannot imagine how any honorable person could do such a thing..."
[06:46] <Koishi_> "There is always another man, fellow ronin. There is no lack of men under the gaze of the Heavens." And he rides back
[06:49] <Koishi_> Soon the six Disciples of Sun Tao return.
[06:50] <Koishi_> "I talked with my companions." Zul explains. "And we would like to invite you for some war games."
[06:50] <Doji_Nanako> "War games?" Nanako, who grows curious towards every little thing, speaks back. "Do you mean a nonlethal skirmish?"
[06:51] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "I see.", this is unusual.  War games?  What is this, the Akodo War College for lowborn wave-men?
[06:52] <Isawa_Sumire> "War games... they say?"
[06:52] <Koishi_> "Oh, yes. But I don't expect you to hold back. We want to feel the true power of Sun Doru's teachings. No quarter." He smiles. "Please, give it all. We would feel offended if you didn't."
[06:53] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa? We have an armor to track down," Yuzuko reminds her fellows.
[06:53] <Doji_Nanako> "We beg your understanding, Zul-sama," Nanako places his right hand over his heart once more and looses a heartfelt plea, "But some of us had our bodies and souls ravaged by spirits of Meido just yesterday, and so we cannot battle at our full strength. We will nevertheless do all in our power to show you what we have learned despite our handicap."
[06:54] <Koishi_> "Oh yes." Zul looks ashamed. "You look for an armour. I'm afraid we can't help you. We scouted this land for days, and we found only a red monk."
[06:54] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Red monk?" Yuzuko asks.
[06:54] * Ikoma_Takehiko grins. "Aa. You wish to know the extent of Sun Doru-sama's teachings? I believe that I can give you what you need. A single representative is more than enough for a single-wait, what?"
[06:55] * Isawa_Sumire looks pleasantly surprised. This could be another lead.
[06:55] <Koishi_> Zul nods towards Nanako. "I believe you. This is a strange place. I will take no offense, even if me and my companions are dissapointed."
[06:56] <Koishi_> "A duel?" Zul inquires, measuring Takehiko's proposal. "Years of service had shown me that duel is a tactical quagmire."
[06:56] <Doji_Nanako> "We will demonstrate that the disciples of Sun Doru will fight for his cause even as the odds are against us and our bodies are weakened, Zul-sama," Nanako makes a nod as an accompanying gesture.
[06:57] <Doji_Nanako> "In any case, please speak to us of this 'red monk' after our skirmish. We would appreciate it, as it would allow us to complete our mission to our lord," Nanako legitimately, upbeatly asks.
[06:57] <Koishi_> "That is inspiring." Zul seems happier. "And yes, we met a monk in red and gold clothing. Could pass for Phoenix, but he wore no mons. A woman, bald head. She was very strange. Even for a monk. But wise, I guess."
[06:58] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "A tactical quagmire, yes, but a reality in Rokugan.  And what better measure of tactical prowess, than those that have real-world applications?  In battle with an enemy, you will find yourself challenged to duels.  Would you decline, and mire yourself in additional battles because you gained enemies by appearing dishonorable or cowardly?"
[06:58] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako is finding his own words absolutely ridiculous, what with how he has been a disciple of Sun Doru for, what, two days by now?
[06:59] <Koishi_> "May I be honest, Ikoma-sama?"
[06:59] <Doji_Nanako> "We have committed your description to memory, and you have our gratitude for it," Nanako forthrightly thanks Zul.
[07:00] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Honesty is always appreciated, Zul-san."
[07:01] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako turns 180 degrees, assume a comfortable position in the rearguard of the group for firing his projectiles, and then turns 180 degrees once more, facing his opponents.
[07:02] <Koishi_> "Well, I would be very dissapointed if dueling was your core strategy. Not even the Crane and Dragon are as foolish as too rely on such a method to fend off enemies. What I propose is a mock battle, I agree, but let's not try to make too much a mockery of it."
[07:03] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Aa.  We would appreciate it if you would wait, nonetheless.  I know who your red monk is, and she is trouble.  Trouble for ronin and disciples of Sun Doru and Sun Tao alike."
[07:03] * Isawa_Sumire turns to glance at Takehiko. "Who is this red monk, Ikoma-san?"
[07:04] <Koishi_> "She seemed polite enough. She had great interest in our religious learnings. She tried to test each of us in our knowledge of the Tao. She was dissapointed at first, but then warmed up to our ignorance. She said it was an opportunity to teach us."
[07:04] <Doji_Nanako> "Ikoma-sama, these disciples of Sun Tao have been of great assistance to us in our search. They are our siblings-in-arms, for they bear the legacy of our lord's venerable ancestor, Sun Tao," Nanako explains to Takehiko in a concerned tone. "We should grant their request of combat before we continue our mission."
[07:05] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Her name is Asako Heiko.  She was the head of the Phoenix delegation at Kyuden Ikoma this winter.  She and I....had some words, none of which were agreeable.  However, that description does not seem to match mine.  The woman I met was fiery and bold in words."
[07:06] <Koishi_> "I doubt the holy woman we met had ever set foot on a Winter Court, Ikoma-sama."
[07:06] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako's heart is not that worried at the moment--he would philosophically hate to have to kill another person, and another samurai, but he is about to participate in just a friendly skirmish, that is all. It does not trouble his conscience at all.
[07:07] * Ikoma_Takehiko is not so easily reassured. Either way...if it's a skirmish they want....."It seems I am the only one opposed to a skirmish here."
[07:08] <Isawa_Sumire> "I am not averse to demonstrating our might, but I would note that we would catch up faster if we saved it for later."
[07:08] <Koishi_> "We can settle this off with a duel." Zul nods. "My wife is a very skilled duelist. She might accept your desire to cross stances."
[07:09] <Koishi_> "While the rest of us maneuver, you test your skill"
[07:12] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako is no tactician whatsoever and subsequently lingers behind in the grand scheme of battle.
[07:13] * Ikoma_Takehiko is no Akodo, but his superior awareness carries him through.
[07:13] <Koishi_> Zul talks with his men. "You will be defending this position."
[07:13] <Doji_Nanako> "Ikoma-sama, if you would like to demonstrate your talents as a duelist, this would be a grand opportunity," Nanako points out the obvious with cheer.
[07:14] <Koishi_> He points towards a pile of rooks. "That is the goal. You are to prevent us from defeating you and destroying that poor "tower". I guess it reminds you of something in Nanashi Mura."
[07:16] <Doji_Nanako> "The remains of a tower that still hold significance, perhaps..." Nanako idly muses aloud.
[07:16] <Koishi_> "We will maneuver and attack. This is a very defensive position, easy to mantain, but we scouted this region well."
[07:17] <Koishi_> Indeed. This seems that reflexes and quickness will not be of much use there. Any sides can engage the other based on tactical maneuvering.
[07:17] <Doji_Nanako> "Let us take our positions then, everyone," Nanako again points out the obvious. His position is in the rearguard, as always.
[07:17] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako is no tactician whatsoever and subsequently lingers behind in the grand scheme of battle.
[07:17] <Koishi_> "We will use mixed strategy."
[07:17] <Koishi_> "One bowman, a duelist and horsemen."
[07:18] * Isawa_Sumire moves to take her position close to the rocks, looking for a good position for herself.
[07:18] * Ikoma_Takehiko hopes that Sumire remembers some of her Legionnaire tricks.
[07:19] * Asako_Yuzuko moves with Sumire. As sluggish as she's moving, its best to stay close.
[07:20] <Isawa_Sumire> "For us, a duelist, a bowman, and myself as a shugenja or a swordsman, and her as a bowman or a swordsman as well." she replies, indicating Yuzuko as the last one.
[07:20] <Koishi_> "As soon as you are ready, my wife will engage Ikoma-sama." He points towards a very small woman. She has long black hair with already some grays, but despise her tired eyes, wrinkles and scars, she still carries some measure of imposing beauty. "Aika."
[07:21] <Koishi_> She nods at Takehiko.
[07:22] <Koishi_> So it starts.
[07:22] <Koishi_> Sumire has the first moment.
[07:23] <Koishi_> A perfect moment, as the cavalry approaches, the bowman is close enough and all of them are on range.
[07:31] * Isawa_Sumire opens her scroll when she sees the perfect moment, and invokes a prayer to Osano-Wo, Fortune of Fire and Thunder. Her prayer is answered by a roaring torrent of lightning and fire, raining down on the approaching group.
[07:33] <Koishi_> Sumire manages a perfect moment: the cavalry try a feint, rushing in to draw her fire, but she holds on, feeling the trick. As they regroup with the archers and understimate her range, she unleashes the fury of Osano-Wo
[07:36] <Doji_Nanako> "Good job, Isawa-sama! If we can keep this up, then we can surely win," Nanako heartily congratulates Sumire.
[07:37] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako adjusts his unscathed headdress after he just barely manages to have a pair of arrows pass through the air beside him.
[07:38] <Doji_Nanako> "That was close..." he mutters to himself.
[07:41] * Isawa_Sumire stands her ground as two of the cavalry rushes her and attack with their katana. She grits her teeth as two blades slice into her flesh. Blood drips to the ground, but the Isawa is still strong enough to stand. "Ngh... this isn't too bad."
[07:42] <Koishi_> The tricky devious "horseman" jumps, stabs Yuzuko on the back and then dissapears.
[07:43] <Koishi_> He is clearly going for the "kill"
[07:43] <Koishi_> Aka: the "tower".
[07:52] * Ikoma_Takehiko holds his usual, aggressive stance in the duel, forward-leaning, obvious move-telegraphing in place, letting his eyes, mind, and zen do the work here.
[07:54] * Asako_Yuzuko turns around to see her attacker, only to see nothing. She backs up, closing ranks with Sumire, ready to defend her from further aggression.
[07:56] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako is not a tactician. He is not a commander. He is not a lieutenant. He knows how to do only one thing in a battle: shoot something.
[07:56] <Doji_Nanako> Pweek, goes the bowstring as he looses towards one of the cavalrymen laying pressure upon Sumire.,
[08:00] * Isawa_Sumire draws her sword, charging towards the horseman just shot. She swings her lengthy blade, but due to her injury, her strike is too slow.
[08:05] <Doji_Nanako> Ow, ow, ow, ow, that hit an artery in the thigh or some similar place.
[08:05] * Isawa_Sumire is eventually subjected to a second wave of cavalry assault, and this one takes her out of the fight completely. The shugenja tumbles to the ground, wounded critically.
[08:06] * Asako_Yuzuko looks on bewildered, as the two injured men manage to blow through her guard and get to Sumire.
[08:07] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako's flustered hopping on one leg is fortunately enough to disrupt his movements to inadvertently avoid a knifing.
[08:08] <Koishi_> The knife-wielder smiles, surprised at his quarry reflexes.
[08:08] <Koishi_> "You're pretty much the last line of defense, Little Crane."
[08:11] <Doji_Nanako> "I am usually supposed to be the first line of defense against threats other than blades and projectiles, due to my position," Nanako takes a free action to idly chat before repositioning back towards the rock, "So this is a new experience."
[08:14] * Doji_Nanako is now known as Colette
[08:15] * Ikoma_Takehiko sees his opportunity. More quickly than his opponent's. The ronin woman is more skilled, he can tell this. But she lacks divine guidance. His move, despite his forward-leaning stance, is one of finesse, restraint, and unorthodoxy. His blade is out, and rather than striking, he brings its flat directly to where hers will be as she draws it, leading her into his maneuver. And though he is too
[08:15] <Ikoma_Takehiko> weak to strike the blade from her hands, a cut rests directly upon the back of her hand. A gentle slice. All that is necessary for friends engaging in honorable sparring.
[08:15] <Koishi_> As Takehiko cuts Aika's arms, she drops the blade.
[08:15] <Koishi_> All around the battlefield combat halts.
[08:16] <Koishi_> "I admit, Ikoma-sama." Zul approaches. "As gambit go, your dueling skills turned the battle. "
[08:16] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "The empire moves with but the breath of the divine.", Takehiko sheathes his blade.
[08:17] <Koishi_> "Takeo, please lend them medical aid."
[08:17] <Colette> "Say, knife wielder-san, look," Nanako informs his opponent, gesturing towards Takehiko.
[08:17] <Koishi_> The knife wielder approaches Sumire first.
[08:20] <Koishi_> He fails to help Nanako
[08:22] <Koishi_> Zul seems very happy.
[08:22] <Colette> "It is okay, Takeo-san," Nanako kindly assures him, wincing with his right eye. "I can simply have Isawa-san elementally push this arrow out of me and heal the wound."
[08:23] <Koishi_> "Well, let me make you a quick map of this region and mark where the monk lives. But be careful. Recall what I told you about its peculiar character."
[08:23] * Asako_Yuzuko checks on Sumire.
[08:24] <Colette> "We certainly will, Zul-sama," Nanako nods, driving away the pain.
[08:24] <Koishi_> Zul deliever the map to Takehiko.
[08:25] <Koishi_> "I will tell everyone that Sun Doru teach a more diverse approach to tactics than the old ways. The Disciples of Sun Tao are with him."
[08:26] <Koishi_> With this they tend to their own wounded.
[08:26] * Ikoma_Takehiko bows to the disciples, and rises, a rather uncharacteristically serene look upon his face. "Stay well. It is rare to find skilled friends."
[08:26] <Colette> "Let the disciples of the ancestor and the disciples of the descendant be united in their goals, their tactics, and their ways," Nanako pithily remarks to Zul with genuine sincerity.
[08:27] * Isawa_Sumire is still unconscious despite the medical attention given to her.
[08:28] * Asako_Yuzuko stays by her side.
[08:29] <Colette> Nanako approaches the fallen shugenja and kneels beside her. "Is..." nervously looking around. "Is there anything we can do to help Isawa-sama?"
[08:29] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Is she breathing?"
[08:29] <Asako_Yuzuko> "She's alive, just banged up," Yuzuko explains.
[08:30] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Unfortunately, she's our group's healer, so this is sort of tricky."
[08:31] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Prepare some sake for her."
[08:32] <Colette> "Unfortunately, I have none on hand..." Nanako looks down towards the ground. "I do not drink."
[08:32] * Isawa_Sumire moves her lips and speaks in a soft whisper. "I'm... still here..." It does sound, however, that it takes much effort for her to speak at all.
[08:38] <Koishi_> Exhausted, Nanako ears something on the back of his head. A shiver on his spine.
[08:38] <Koishi_> A voice.
[08:38] <Koishi_> "Such waste of blood. Such violence. It pains us to see such suffering. Please, help us end it."
[08:39] * Ikoma_Takehiko makes a tired, displeased face. Fine, fine. "I know how to rouse the hearts of soldiers and legionnaires.", time to play the Ikoma for everyone here. "ISAWA-SAN! WE ARE VICTORIOUS! JOIN ME IN A VICTORY CHEER! YAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!~"
[08:39] <Colette> "But the violence has already ended, right...?" he voices himself aloud in a curious (overused word) tone, tilting his head?
[08:39] <Koishi_> "And your friend lies down. I can teach you how to make her whole again."
[08:39] * Ikoma_Takehiko rises, arm raised, pumping into the air, exaggerated smile on his face, as he shouts at the top of his lungs.
[08:40] <Colette> "What do you mean by 'whole'?" Tilting his head in the other direction, speaking to thin air due to not knowing how else to respond.
[08:40] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Eh?" Yuzuko perks up at Nanako's directionless speech.
[08:40] * Isawa_Sumire mutters again, but doesn't get up. "Can't... hurts too much..."
[08:41] <Koishi_> "Healthy again. You could give a little of yourself to her... and she could call my cousin later and recover both of you."
[08:42] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "CHEER WITH ME, ISAWA-SAMA!  GLORIOUS THUNDER-CALLER, FRIEND OF KAMI!"
[08:42] <Colette> Nanako goes from his kneeling position to a kneel-sitting position immediately before Sumire. He has his hands on his lap.
[08:42] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "OIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!"
[08:43] <Asako_Yuzuko> "???" Yuzuko just looks at Nanako curiously.
[08:43] <Koishi_> "If you accept, just nod."
[08:44] <Colette> Nanako keeps his head still. "Say, everyone," Nanako confusedly consults his companions, "suppose I could hypothetically sacrifice a portion of my flesh and blood to restore Isawa-san. Would that be a fair trade?"
[08:44] * Ikoma_Takehiko stops cheering.
[08:44] <Asako_Yuzuko> "That'd be blood magic," Yuzuko shrugs, "Why?"
[08:44] * Isawa_Sumire would facepalm if she wasn't crippled.
[08:44] <Koishi_> join #Warlordsambition
[08:45] * Ikoma_Takehiko then TURNS AROUND AND SLAPS NANAKO ACROSS THE FACE LIKE THE IDIOT HE IS!
[08:45] <Colette> Ow. Nanako clutches the side of his cheek where he was slapped, rubbing it.
[08:45] * Isawa_Sumire would probably spend Void Points to facepalm if she hadn't already exhausted it.
[08:46] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Doji!  That is a cruel, unnecessary joke!"
[08:46] * Ikoma_Takehiko points accusingly at Nanako, still in performance mode, being loud, and exaggerated.
[08:49] <Colette> "But it was just suggested to me..." his tone descending.
[08:50] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa?" Yuzuko begins piecing it together.
[08:50] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "....Where?!  From who?", Takehiko draws his blade hastily.
[08:50] <Koishi_> The voice is gone.
[08:50] <Koishi_> Or at least, quiet.
[08:50] <Koishi_> "Fool." She whispers.
[08:51] <Colette> "... I am sorry, I do not know. Just... here," Nanako explains in a vexed state, gesturing blankly to the air in front of him.
[08:52] * Colette is now known as Doji_Nanako
[08:53] * Isawa_Sumire mutters, "What's... happening?"
[08:53] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "For a doji, you have not seen many plays or heard many stories, have you?", Takehiko sheathes his blade.  And lets it drop at that.  "Nothing, Isawa-san.  Rest, and recover.  It is out of mind."
[08:54] <Doji_Nanako> "Well, I have..." Nanako softly explains, not bothering to turn his head towards Takehiko. His left hand is on his cheek. "Why do you ask?"
[08:58] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Study the plays of Ikoma Jijio."
[09:00] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Now what?" Yuzuko asks, "Do we make another camp and call it a day?"
[09:00] <Doji_Nanako> "What about those plays, Ikoma-sama?" Nanako tilts his head one millimeter to the right.
[09:02] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "A truly sheltered child, indeed.  You disappoint, when I thought you were acting quite the man earlier.", Takehiko kneels beside Isawa, and waits for her to recuperate.  Also, to make sure she doesn't suddenly croak
[09:04] <Doji_Nanako> "I am still uncertain if I understand, Ikoma-sama. I was just receiving suggestions that sounded partially reasonable..." he trails off.
[09:04] <Asako_Yuzuko> "From where?" Yuzuko asks.
[09:05] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Divine wisdom is a lie.  Enlightenment flows from the void, into the void.  It is indistinguishable from the self, as you are one with the universe."
[09:05] * Ikoma_Takehiko speaks cryptically to Nanako, and then turns to look at Sumire with some concern.
[09:06] <Doji_Nanako> "From... somewhere," Nanako makes a blanket gesture to the air once more.
[09:06] * Isawa_Sumire tries to open her eyes, and does so, only for a moment. "...Nghhh."
[09:06] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa. Well, we're not in the safest place, theologically speaking."
[09:06] <Asako_Yuzuko> "I wouldn't trust anything you can't identify."
[09:06] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "You mean the ghosts, Asako-san?"
[09:07] <Koishi_> Alright, the night occurs without problems.
[09:07] <Koishi_> Sumire recoveres during the night.
[09:09] * Isawa_Sumire will still feeling pretty bad the next morning, but at least now fully conscious and (barely) able to stand firmly.
[09:09] <Doji_Nanako> "Are you alright now, Isawa-sama?" Nanako concernedly inquires.
[09:09] * Ikoma_Takehiko has prepared some very, very bad tea.
[09:11] * Isawa_Sumire rubs her forehead very carefully. "I've been better." She takes some of Takehiko's tea and sips it, makes a face,, but keeps drinking it anyway.
[09:13] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "A humble soldier's tea for a cold night in the field is better than nothing.", Takehiko will say, glad to be unburdened by an unconscious comrade.
[09:13] * Asako_Yuzuko does her best to patch up Sumire. Its an improvement, though not a huge one.
[09:16] * Isawa_Sumire nods to Yuzuko, the treatment being a good improvement to her condition. She then calls upon the aid of the water kami, revitalizing herself to peak health.
[09:17] <Doji_Nanako> "Do you think you could elementally restore myself as well?" Nanako points to the arrow that continues to pierce his thigh. "I was afraid to pull it out improperly..."
[09:19] * Isawa_Sumire looks at Nanako's injury without concerning herself with what transpired the night before. "Hmm... I probably should. Your well-being would be more useful to us than if I saved my energy for myself."
[09:20] <Koishi_> You follow the map, and soon you find a strange place.
[09:21] <Doji_Nanako> "You have my gratitude, Isawa-sama," Nanako nods his head and speaks in a thankful tone. "I tried to assist you earlier, but the others thought it unwise."
[09:21] <Koishi_> Three cherry trees, still suffering from the winter around a large pit. The walls seem of terracota, some short of habitation carved inside them.
[09:21] <Koishi_> That is the place of the red monk.
[09:22] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa?" Yuzuko takes it in.
[09:22] * Isawa_Sumire nods to Nanako. "I heard something of it, as you were all around me. Let's not speak of this any more." she replies, then takes a look at the humble settlement. "Interesting place..."
[09:22] <Doji_Nanako> "This locale is quite serene and spiritually pleasing in an ephemeral sort of way," Nanako takes a moment to appreciate artistic qualities.
[09:22] <Koishi_> Recalling the warnings of Zul, you wonder the best approach.
[09:23] * Isawa_Sumire consults with the others. "Hmm... do you all believe she might be a Phoenix?" she asks.
[09:24] <Asako_Yuzuko> "We'd have to see her first, I think."
[09:24] <Doji_Nanako> "Your clan has its share of monks, does it not?" Nanako questions Sumire.
[09:25] <Isawa_Sumire> "Well, some of us, particularly amongst the Asako, tend to live monastic lives."
[09:25] * Ikoma_Takehiko simply.....looks around. He's still not convinced that the person they're looking for -isn't- that bitch.
[09:25] <Doji_Nanako> "I see..." Nanako faces whatever might be the entrance. "On the off-chance that she might be of the Phoenix, I think it would be best to present yourself to her first, Isawa-sama."
[09:27] * Isawa_Sumire nods. "I was thinking that... even though I was hoping this wouldn't have to be the case."
[09:29] <Doji_Nanako> "Whatever the case may be, there would be little point loitering here..." Nanako begins to take steps forward, "So let us meet her."
[09:29] * Asako_Yuzuko nods.
[09:31] * Ikoma_Takehiko follows from behind....running into her first might be a bad idea.
[09:32] * Isawa_Sumire cautiously climbs down into the depression in the ground and does so with great ease. Seems that the water kami have given her a good burst of energy.
[09:33] * Asako_Yuzuko doesn't climb down so much as crash. She lands at the bottom with a thump.
[09:33] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Ow!"
[09:33] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako barely manages to lower himself down thanks to a lucky landing position.
[09:35] <Asako_Yuzuko> Fortunately Sumire's quick thinking managed to spare her the worst of the fall.
[09:35] <Koishi_> Someone comes outside, attracted by the noise.
[09:35] * Isawa_Sumire carefully sets Yuzuko down after catching her. "Everyone all ri-"
[09:36] <Koishi_> You see a very young woman, that can't be older than twenty. She dresses like a monk, but on red clothing that are embroidered with too much gold. It reminds Yuzuko the monks of Road's End. The woman seems confused at their presence here.
[09:37] * Ikoma_Takehiko herps facefirst into the depression
[09:37] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Ao! Hello!" Yuzuko says as she picks herself up from the ground.
[09:37] * Koishi_ (~satorisan@Rizon-1D283AF2.inwind.it) has left #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[09:37] * Isawa_Sumire tries to catch Takehiko when the Ikoma also stumbles, but... too slow this time.
[09:37] * Koishi_ (~satorisan@Rizon-1D283AF2.inwind.it) has joined #WarlordsAmbition-ic
[09:38] <Koishi_> She sees Sumire and smiles.
[09:38] <Koishi_> "Good to see a priest here."
[09:39] <Koishi_> She eyes the armed bushi with suspicion.
[09:39] * Ikoma_Takehiko is in a world of pain
[09:39] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako frowns ever so slightly at the sight of his friends stumbling down and hurting themselves, but has no time to ask them if they are alright due to the monk at hand.
[09:39] * Isawa_Sumire looks at the monk and gives a small, embarrassed smile. "Excuse me for a moment though, -sama." she replies, as she tries to help Takehiko up.
[09:39] <Koishi_> "I have no place for violence on my home. I seek isolament exactly to escape such shameful behaviour."
[09:40] <Doji_Nanako> Isolament? Is that even a word? Nanako wonders.
[09:40] <Koishi_> *solitude
[09:41] <Doji_Nanako> "We seek not violence, but answers to questions and guidance for quandaries," Nanako explains to the monk in red and gold in a serene voice.
[09:41] * Ikoma_Takehiko exhales. Not the one he's expecting? Damn.
[09:41] <Koishi_> "I have no interest in mundane matters."
[09:42] <Doji_Nanako> "Fortunately, two of us are more than capable of speaking of the divine and the elemental with you," gesturing towards Sumire and Yuzuko.
[09:43] * Ikoma_Takehiko grunts, and gasps. "Do. Not count me out, either.", he forces himself to stand, wincing.
[09:43] * Isawa_Sumire straightens up and turns to face the monk after getting Takehiko to his feet. "Ah... well... furthermore, it is a matter of some great spiritual significance that eventually guided our paths to you. To the residents of Nanashi Mura."
[09:43] <Isawa_Sumire> *A matter of spiritual significance to the residents of Nanashi Mura
[09:44] <Koishi_> "I also don't do communities."
[09:45] <Doji_Nanako> "Let us all settle down and speak of whatever it is you wish to speak of then," Nanako chimes in, trying to mediate.
[09:45] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Awa? That's pretty extreme."
[09:46] <Koishi_> This seems to humour the nun.
[09:46] <Koishi_> "I actually wish to talk about the Tao. It is always good to see how the Tao has impacted the lives of people. It is so inspiring... I like to record that and leave those tales for the next generation."
[09:47] <Doji_Nanako> "Isawa-sama, Yuzuko-san, would either of you like to engage our acquaintance in a discussion over the wisdom of Shinsei?" Nanako looks towards them expectantly.
[09:47] * Asako_Yuzuko nods.
[09:48] <Koishi_> The nun rises her left eyebrow, staring at the ronin.
[09:48] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa. I was curious. Why the isolation?"
[09:48] <Isawa_Sumire> Despite her reserved nature, those words actually perk Sumire's interest. "I am mainly Fortunist, but even the wisdom of Shinsei does interest me. Yuzuko-san however, speaks better about these subjects than I do."
[09:49] * Ikoma_Takehiko continues to gain his bearings.
[09:50] <Koishi_> She ignores the ronin.
[09:50] <Asako_Yuzuko> "I mean, surely it wasn't simply to avoid seeing people trip."
[09:51] <Doji_Nanako> "Yuzuko-san," Nanako takes the time to lean towards her and whisper worryingly, "I think it would be best to not pry, and to simply indulge her request."
[09:51] <Asako_Yuzuko> "But it has everything to do with the Tao," Yuzuko replies.
[09:53] * Isawa_Sumire lets Yuzuko try to reach to the monk, but she watches the latter as well. "We are on a mission, but I wonder what sort of tales she has already collected..." she remarks, mostly to herself.
[09:53] <Koishi_> Nanako gets a pretty clear picture. This person sees herself as a champion of mankind, interested in theological mysteries and in outdoing great sages.
[09:55] <Doji_Nanako> "She is a connoisseur of theological mysteries and knowledge, and would like to surpass the greatest of the sages," Nanako continues whispering to Yuzuko. "Please, pour your heart and soul into your discussion of the Tao, such that she receives what she wishes for."
[09:56] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa," Yuzuko nods. "I've spoken to ascetic monks before, but none of them have been able to satisfy my curiosity on this, perhaps you can?" she asks the monk.
[09:56] * Ikoma_Takehiko finds somewhere to sit, and watches the conversation.
[09:56] <Koishi_> The woman nods. "I was mid meditation before your crashed into my home. I can say that this is hardly the proper etiquette to visit someone."
[09:56] <Koishi_> "In what, ronin-san?"
[09:57] <Doji_Nanako> Seeing Takehiko take the time to sit down, Nanako finds himself an appropriate sitting position near the Lion. He adjusts the bow on his back and the quiver by his waist for maximum comfort.
[09:57] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Why some of the followers of the Tao of Shinsei isolate themselves," Yuzuko refers to the ascetic tradition, as opposed to the worldly tradition.
[09:58] * Isawa_Sumire stays close to Yuzuko, a mostly silent but attentive listener to the conversation between the former Phoenix and the monk.
[09:59] <Koishi_> "I don't know, for I don't seek to isolate myself. My condition is an obligation of my study of the elements. Earth is very strong in the Plain." She beams with pride. "I can say without a doubt that there is nobody that knows more about the Mysteries of Earth than myself. Perhaps the Oracles... Perhaps."
[10:01] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa. The study of the elements? I see you're more concerned with larger, theo-cosmological matters. My personal preference is a more humanistic application of the wisdom of the Tao. But I know a thing or two about the elements. What have you discovered here?"
[10:01] <Koishi_> "I will not part with my secrets to the unworthy. They cost me dearly." She says, flustered.
[10:02] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa? What are the value of secrets of this nature?" Yuzuko asks, "Wisdom should be shared, not horded. Otherwise what is its value?"
[10:02] * Isawa_Sumire looks at the monk curiously. "Hmm... in your eyes, who would you consider worthy?" she asks, finally speaking up.
[10:02] <Koishi_> "And shared with someone that wouldn't understand?"
[10:03] <Asako_Yuzuko> "There is no such thing," Yuzuko shakes her head.
[10:03] <Koishi_> "Someone that can grasp the fundamentals of the Tao. The truth of the elements. The ways of the Fortunes."
[10:03] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako bows his head towards the earth and closes his eyes, blocking out all distractions, allowing himself to hear and only hear.
[10:03] <Koishi_> "I doubt a ronin can grasp this. A priest perhaps.
[10:03] <Koishi_> "
[10:04] * Isawa_Sumire thinks about those words for a solid moment. Then speaks again. "I would be willing to try this."
[10:04] <Asako_Yuzuko> "That is a false dichotomy. We are not born with the knowledge of the Tao. We learn it, both by receiving the imparted wisdom of those who came before us, and by our own life experiences. It is not an inability to learn, but an inability to teach."
[10:05] <Koishi_> "Blame your sensei. Don't drag your feet to my home." The nun announces. "I'm not here to teach you the basics. Come back when you are ready."
[10:05] * Ikoma_Takehiko has been paying attention to this for a while now. He likes this nun, maybe.
[10:05] * Isawa_Sumire turns to Yuzuko, "Well, in such a case, perhaps she can teach it to me, and then we may see what comes from there."
[10:06] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa? You have divined what I know and do not know? That is some potent wisdom indeed," Yuzuko comments.
[10:07] <Koishi_> "You speak only foolishness. I have yet to see a grain of true Taoist wisdom from your mouth." The nun rises her head. "I've seen wise ronin, but you don't seem the kind. "
[10:11] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa? Perhaps I am biased. I was raised learning that 'Virtue untested is no virtue at all'. But I have always thought it applied to more than virtue."
[10:12] <Koishi_> "So let's test that virtue." Her mouth opens on a wide smile. "It takes a wise man to see an obstacle as it truly is and not as it appears to be. Please enter my home."
[10:12] <Koishi_> She invites you in.
[10:12] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako raises his head and opens his eyes. He is unsure of whether or not that invitation implies to himself and Takehiko as well.
[10:12] <Asako_Yuzuko> "I think the primary obstacle was the lack of a ladder," Yuzuko smiles playfully.
[10:13] <Koishi_> The house is made of maze-like tunnels, and the air is stale and hot. There is barely any space to move, and the only proper room is a small hole carved from the rock. There are no religious symbols, only a tarnished copy of the Tao. Incense burns, and it is a miracle that the nun doesn't suffocate. Your head is dizzy from the lack of oxygen.
[10:13] * Ikoma_Takehiko rises, and steps forward anyways.
[10:14] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako follows Takehiko from behind, still unsure of whether or not he is supposed to follow.
[10:14] <Koishi_> The nun sits and prepares some red tea. It is clearly she has only eyes for Yuzuko. The rest of you are just background.
[10:14] <Asako_Yuzuko> "It's suffocating in here," Yuzuko comments, "It really does feel like we're in the earth itself."
[10:15] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako receives his tea and takes a seat in the corner. It is clear that the nun wishes to speak to Yuzuko and not anyone else.
[10:15] <Koishi_> "You know your Tao. But can you feel the elements? Prove me your knowledge and I might share some secrets."
[10:15] <Koishi_> There is no tea for nobody else.
[10:15] <Doji_Nanako> In that case, Nanako just takes a quiet corner position.
[10:16] * Asako_Yuzuko takes her tea with glee and sips. It's just Yuzuko and the nun here. The rest have faded from her consciousness as well.
[10:16] * Isawa_Sumire takes a spot for herself, just watching Yuzuko and the nun.
[10:17] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Aa. I am not a priest, so I can't actually speak to the kami, but I can feel them, in my own way," Yuzuko says.
[10:18] <Koishi_> She seems impressed with how much Yuzuko actually knows.
[10:18] <Koishi_> But soon her mood sours. She begins to grow frustrated, as Yuzuko already knows every secret she brings up...
[10:19] <Koishi_> "It seems we have a master of Earth disguised as a ronin. I feel tricked."
[10:20] * Asako_Yuzuko shakes her head, with a sympathetic smile.
[10:20] <Koishi_> "Next you will reveal yourself as some grandmaster that came to test me."
[10:20] <Koishi_> "Is that your game?"
[10:20] <Asako_Yuzuko> "None!" She declares. "I simply study the void."
[10:21] <Koishi_> "And yet..." She grows angry. "You come here and you know more than me, that dedicated my life to earth. How do you dare insult me this way in my house?"
[10:21] * Asako_Yuzuko continues to smile.
[10:21] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "But.....isn't that a relief?", Takehiko finally interjects.
[10:21] <Koishi_> It is obvious even to the others that Yuzuko proved how deep her knowledge of the Elements went, and the nun isn't taking it very well.
[10:22] * Isawa_Sumire turns to glance at the other disciples of Sun Doru and shrugs. She seems glad that she didn't attempt this personally.
[10:22] <Koishi_> As Yuzuko smiles, somethins snaps inside the nun.
[10:22] <Asako_Yuzuko> "You're wrong!" Yuzuko replies with surity.
[10:22] <Koishi_> "No, you are wrong! And I will prove it!"
[10:22] <Koishi_> "Everything you say is wrong!"
[10:22] <Doji_Nanako> "Do you think our weapons should be drawn at the moment?" Nanako discreetly asks Takehiko.
[10:22] * Asako_Yuzuko shakes her head.
[10:23] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Not at all.  Seriously, for someone who has dedicated themselves to the Tao, she has failed to grasp what Akodo did long ago."
[10:23] <Asako_Yuzuko> "I already answered your question, Ms. Nun. You came this far on your own. Now you just need to go out there and test your virtue," she points to the outside.
[10:23] <Koishi_> "Let the kami pass judgment. Earth, come to me! I will show you the true face of virtue!"
[10:24] * Isawa_Sumire looks back to Yuzuko and the nun, whose discussion seems to be growing more tense by the second. She gestures a 'stay your hand' to the others, however.
[10:24] <Doji_Nanako> "... How about now, Ikoma-sama? She seems like she could erupt as a volcano does..." Nanako worriedly trails.
[10:24] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Okay!" Yuzuko smiles, fire in her eyes.
[10:24] <Koishi_> The nun throws the tea table in the direction of the others. Her visage changes, and a pair of long, brown, metallic and teluric horns rise from her forehead. Her fists end in long claws that she attacks Yuzuko.
[10:25] * Isawa_Sumire gasps. "...What is this."
[10:25] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "WHAT?!"
[10:25] <Asako_Yuzuko> "This is my tao of the earth!" she slaps her hands on her knees and keeps her eyes on the nun.
[10:26] <Doji_Nanako> "That... that is not quite what I had expected her to erupt into..." Nanako's tone is even more hush, and there is a quiver to it. He hurriedly draws out his bow and strings it, though he might not make it in time.
[10:30] <Koishi_> Howling the devilish creature slash
[10:30] <Koishi_> "OH YOU THINK YOU ARE SO GOOD!"
[10:30] <Koishi_> "I KILLED THAT HENSHIN WOMAN AND STOLE HER FACE! AND THAT IZE ZUMI! HE JOKED AND BURNED ME!"
[10:31] <Koishi_> "But you are mine ronin!"
[10:32] <Asako_Yuzuko> "Yes!" Yuzuko replies, defiant as the claws rake through her body. She continues to sit, unmoved.
[10:32] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "No rest, huh!?"
[10:33] * Isawa_Sumire whips out one of her scrolls and recites an incantation hurriedly - but she does so in a very panicky fashion. The Fire Kami refuse to answer her for once.
[10:34] <Koishi_> "THERE IS NO PLACE FOR FIRE HERE! MY QUARREL IS WITH THE BIG MOUTH RONIN! PRIEST, IF YOU ACCEPT MY SUPERIOR MASTERY OF EARTH YOU WILL LIVE!"
[10:34] <Doji_Nanako> "This is not looking good, everyone..." Nanako worriedly preaches doom for a moment. "But our ancestors would never forgive us if we yielded, so we cannot give up. We have to keep fighting," readying his bow.
[10:35] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "....Is this thing really serious?"
[10:35] <Isawa_Sumire> "...Ikoma-san, what does Akodo-kami say about things like these?"
[10:36] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako slinks away from his corner and toward the exit, such that he has room to back away and start pelting the thing with arrows, perhaps in vain, but it is better than nothing.
[10:38] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "What do you think he says!?", Takehiko lunges, drawing his katana in a flash, and bringing it to bear in a sharply turning flourish.  It probably does not do much.
[10:50] <Isawa_Sumire> Still holding her scroll in her hand, Sumire leaps for Yuzuko, quickly reciting her healing spell. Just as she finishes the incantation, her fingers touch the back of the samurai-ko's armor.
[10:52] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "Have at you!", Takehiko says, taking advantage of vulnerabilities granted by the beast's rage.
[10:52] <Asako_Yuzuko> "That will never exceed me." Yuzuko stands fast, unmoving from her position.
[10:55] <Doji_Nanako> "I have my doubts over..." he cannot bring himself to finish his thought has he hastily draws and looses, and it does not even come anywhere close to the clawed monster, instead striking wall perhaps fifteen feet away from the proper trajectory.
[10:56] <Doji_Nanako> "I am so sorry, Yuzuko-san!" he cries out aloud.
[11:02] <Isawa_Sumire> As Yuzuko goes down from the monster's rending attack, Sumire whips out a second scroll from her scroll-case. "You'll pay for that!" she shouts, and calls on the fire kami to aid Takehiko as her instrument of vengeance.
[11:03] <Isawa_Sumire> 1 Fire slot left, 1 Water slot left.
[11:03] <Isawa_Sumire> (whoops wrong)
[11:06] <Asako_Yuzuko> "You will always know." Yuzuko says as the light leaves her eyes. Her body does not slump over. She is dead (?) where she sits.
[11:07] <Doji_Nanako> "Yuzuko-san..." Nanako lowers his bow while, his eyes grow watery, and his composure is lost to sudden melancholy.
[11:08] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "YOU'LL PAY FOR THAT!", Takehiko shouts, bringing his blade down in a rather unhandy manner, a savage, finishing-blow type move unsuited for combat, but against such a fierce opponent occupied with his friend....
[11:09] <Koishi_> Fire burns.
[11:09] <Koishi_> Even spirits.
[11:10] <Doji_Nanako> "To atone for our failure to save the life of another from the clutches of a beast that should not be, and that Yuzuko-san may perhaps be avenged," Nanako mutters under his breath as he looses an arrow. A weak pull, but it can do a passable job.
[11:10] <Doji_Nanako> He then scurries towards the exit, perhaps leaving it if he has the fleetness to do so.
[11:12] <Koishi_> "PRIEST! Cease or I kill her!"
[11:14] <Isawa_Sumire> "If we desist, what happens?"
[11:15] <Koishi_> "You recognize my superiority. She stays my captive. You can leave this place."
[11:15] <Ikoma_Takehiko> "NEVER!"
[11:15] <Koishi_> "So be done."
[11:24] <Isawa_Sumire> "Can't leave comrades behind. Kami, arise!" With those words, Sumire unlocks the dormant earth kami within her body, armoring her. She then asks the fire kami to sheath her form, and once that is done, she drops her scrolls and brings out her no-dachi.
[11:27] <Doji_Nanako> "Yuzuko-san, if perhaps your spirit might hear me all the way from the Realm of Waiting, please know that we might just be able to avenge you!" Nanako passionately calls out before twinging a weak shot towards the beast.
[11:27] <Doji_Nanako> Scuttle scuttle scuttle backwards, for more breathing room.
[11:30] * Ikoma_Takehiko is now known as macrophage
[11:32] <Koishi_>  With disgust the creature slices Takehiko's breast open. "See what you did, priest? You just let me claim my prize and you and the Crane can live. Think about it. A bushi for a shugenja and a courtier."
[11:33] <Doji_Nanako> "Ikoma-sama, not you too..." By now, a single teardrop rolls down Nanako's cheek from his watery eyes, and his head stiffly slumps towards the ground in despair.
[11:34] <macrophage> >takehiko dies in a berserker frenzy killing an invulnerable monster
[11:34] <macrophage> >Nanako can only cry and give up and not be inspired by his death
[11:34] <macrophage> Takehiko has failed as an Ikoma.
[11:35] * Isawa_Sumire clasps her sword and pauses. She is ready to charge forth, to strike this creature, but she remembers that she's not alone. "Doji-san. Leave now." She then lunges forth with a loud kiai, holding her blade high as she jumps forward... no regrets.
[11:36] <Doji_Nanako> "No... I... I do not think I can," bringing his right hand to his forehead, rubbing it once, twice, before righting his archery stance. "We have come this far, and we have to avenge both of our fallen companions."
[11:38] <Koishi_> In acceptance, the nun-demon finishis Yuzuko off.
[11:38] <Koishi_> "Do your best, priest."
[11:43] * Isawa_Sumire almost has tears in her eyes as she makes her strike, letting her rage and grief lend power to her arms. "DIE!" she shouts loudly, striking the hideous creature with her blade. As steel connects, the kami lash out along the blade as well, willed by the shugenja's emotions.
[11:44] <Koishi_> The creature dies, melting in a pile of blood. As a final insult, she assumes Yuzuko's face just before dying.
[11:44] <Koishi_> "I will carry two souls to Jigoku..."
[11:45] <Doji_Nanako> As Nanako sees that accursed thing dissolve into red liquid, he frantically rushes back into that makeshift house and kneels beside the corpses of Yuzuko and Takehiko.
[11:45] * Isawa_Sumire makes a wild swipe at the melting puddle, then drops to her knees, short of breath.
[11:45] <Doji_Nanako> He has his hands clasped in loose fits over his cheeks and mouth, and he struggles to get out even a very short prayer.
[11:46] * Asako_Yuzuko left a stately corpse. Shredded by the claws, but still sitting, leaning foward, hands on her knees. Furrowed brow and a smile of determination. The only thing missing is the light in her eyes.
[11:47] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako barely finishes his impromptu prayer, makes the Taoist equivalent of you-know-that-four-pointed-sign-gesture, and wipes the tears away from his eyes with a finger. He sulks, trying in vain not to sob.
[11:47] * macrophage has had his throat ripped out in a ghastly manner, and his face has been highly disfigured after the fight. He lies face-down, still smouldering. A soldier's end is glorious because of his actions. To expect the reality of death to reflect this is foolish.
[11:47] * Isawa_Sumire is too heavy and numb to move, even as the flames die out around her and the resolute, stony aura dissipates. She openly buries her face in her arms and weeps, too grief-stricken to deliver her prayers right away.
[11:48] * Asako_Yuzuko is now known as HLeviathan
[11:49] * Isawa_Sumire is now known as Lord_Specineff13
[11:49] <Doji_Nanako> "Y-Yuzuko-san... Ik-Ikoma-sama..." Nanako stutters sorrowfully out as he begins to catch tears in his palms, kneeling. "P-Please forgive us for failing to save you... and please let w-what it said about d-dragging not be true..."
[12:00] <Doji_Nanako> Nanako's headdress droops ever so slightly from his head and towards the ground.