Session Start: Mon Apr 18 18:45:31 2011
Session Ident: #L5Rgame
02[18:45] * Disconnected
02[18:45] * Attempting to rejoin channel #L5Rgame
03[18:45] * Rejoined channel #L5Rgame
03[18:45] * Topic is 'Legend of the Five(ish) Ronin! | Episode 3: The Young Lions | Monday night 8pm EST | +24xp, +6 Glory |'
03[18:45] * Set by KingGheedorah on Tue Apr 12 03:58:51
03[18:45] * UboaServ sets mode: +q KingGheedorah
03[19:44] * Hiroshi (Glodrhun@sux-CC21EEE3.dhcp.mdsn.wi.charter.com) has joined #L5Rgame
03[19:55] * Ginko (pie@sux-5E52C193.phnx.qwest.net) has joined #L5Rgame
03[19:56] * Easymode is now known as Jun
03[20:15] * Sanji (chatzilla@sux-8F6A16DA.cwjamaica.com) has joined #L5Rgame
01[20:16] <~KingGheedorah> 6LAST TIME ON: LEGEND OF THE FIVE(ish) RONIN
01[20:16] <~KingGheedorah> 6"In this den of madness, I'm not sure either way is completely wise." "I don't really know how much I can do, as it's probably some old Chuda magic." "Some secrets are better left unknown." "Watch where you put your hands." "So much for that." "SHOW YOURSELF COWARD!" "I am beginning to think she's enjoying this." "Someone bring me a torch." "Oh, thank the Kami!" "Kakita Sanji. I, Chuda Tanaka, would hold you to your promise, and challenge you do a duel to the death." "Not all tales of the past are tales of glory." "Don't worry Sanji, we're not about to go traipsing around the rest of the Empire first.  You'll have your chances."
01[20:17] <~KingGheedorah> 6After your harrowing adventure in the Chuda monastery, your journey out of the Spine of the World and into the mainland of Rokugan seemed easy; almost pleasant. Three days crossing the Spine, and another four across the broad, flat plains that make up the borders of Crane and Hare territory. Food starts to become scarce, as does fresh water, and spending every night under the stars begins to take its toll. So it is an immense relief when, on the dawn of the eighth day since leaving the monastery you spot the chimney-smoke of a village on the horizon. By noon you reach the Mantis-held village of Shaisa, your stomachs grumbling.
01[20:17] <~KingGheedorah> 6The village itself is fairly large, with a population of a few hundred or so, and bustles with activity. A great deal of merchant activity seems to be taking place, with Mantis vendors selling to buyers wearing Crane, Lion and Hare mons - as well as countless others of lower castes, of course. Everything from finely-crafted weapons and armor to horses to foodstuffs to trinkets and tokens to various sundries and other notions are for sale here in the bustling marketplaces. There are several inns and hostels accommodating a wide range of different caste brackets, as well as a large and well-appointed geisha house in the center of town. The forbidding stone walls of the magistate’s tower overlook the town from the northeast corner of the walls.
01[20:18] <~KingGheedorah> 6The first thing you notice - as it is rather difficult not to - are the bands of Lion samurai, Matsu and Akodo dressed for battle in brilliant gold armor, often bearing magnificent war-banners, strutting around the town as if they owned it. They gather in groups of five to ten and carry numerous and well-honed weapons. Their opposites are slightly less numerous but no less flamboyant - Crane samurai in equally ornate regalia, mostly Kakita and Daidoji, eyeing the Lion with haughty aloofness and hands on the hilt of their long blades. Tensions seem high, and in the midst of this are the Mantis, mostly Tsuruchi, watching both sides warily.
[20:19] <Ginko> "What a lovely situation we seem to have stumbled into."
[20:20] <Isamu> "No really I swaer it was the most beautiful cut you could have ever hoped f- Oh... Well this looks welcoming I suppose."
[20:20] <Sanji> "Lovely isn't the word I would use."
[20:21] <Jun> "You can feel it in the air. One spark could set off a fight. Obviously we should proceed with the utmost caution."
[20:22] <Ginko> "I'm curious about what's going on, but I don't really think approaching anyone right now is a good idea."
[20:22] <Hiroshi> "Well, it could be worse.  They look like they're more ready to fight with each other than us.  For now, let's get stocked up."
[20:23] <Hiroshi> "And calm down Isamu, it's fine with us, but you don't want to get called out on a tall tale like that here."
[20:23] <Isamu> "Eh, one spark huh?" Isamu pauses and watches the scene. "Any chance we could try for a different entrance. I don't feel like straying to close to a barrel of oil just waiting to ignite."
[20:24] <Isamu> "Ouch, I'm hurt Hiroshi. To think any of my tales would be that tall."
[20:24] <Jun> "Yes. Something other what we've been eating would be a wonderful change of pace."
[20:25] <Hiroshi> "Well, you just keep going on about that 'miracle slash' of yours.
[20:25] <Hiroshi> At any rate, it's either go in, or wait and hope they leave."
[20:25] <Ginko> "Just try not to attract too much attention, I think they're too busy with each other."
[20:26] <Sanji> "I'll go for the former Hiroshi."
[20:26] <Hiroshi> "Right.  Act natural, and they hopefully won't even notice we're here."
[20:27] <Jun> "As natural as some of us can be."
06[20:27] * Hiroshi walks into the market, looking to stock up on food and similar necessities.
06[20:28] * Sanji draws the brim of his hat to shield his face and proceeds into the town
[20:28] <Sanji> "We need somewhere to stay" He whispers, drawing beside Hiroshi
[20:28] <Isamu> "Us? Act natural. Hah, this will be entertaining." Isamu chuckles and pulls his straw hat down like Sanji, then folds his arm inside his kimono.
06[20:29] * Jun joins Hiroshi on the hunt for fresh food.
[20:29] <Hiroshi> "Right, we'll take a look around at the inns after we're done here."
01[20:31] <~KingGheedorah> 6The central market is bustling with activity, as buyers and sellers from all walks of the Celestial Order (and even those from outside) are rubbing shoulders among the stalls and stands.
01[20:32] <~KingGheedorah> 6At the north end of the square a large and well-appointed group of Lions sit and chat animatedly. Three figures stand out even amongst all the glittering armor, blonde hair and glinting war-banners.
01[20:34] <~KingGheedorah> 6The first and most eminent amongst the company is a tall, imposing-looking man in heavy ornate lamellar armor that seems to be made primarily of gold. A massive lion's pelt adorns his shoulders, and his kabuto is fashioned in the shape of a roaring lion's maw, complete with a mane that looks to be made of spun gold. A similarly ornate sword hangs from his obi, never far from hand. He wears a neatly-trimmed beard and his face bears many scars, and looks to be around thirty.
01[20:36] <~KingGheedorah> 6The second is a slender, delicate waif of a woman with a pleasing figure, long black hair and deep blue eyes bright enough to be spotted from clear across the market square. From the deferential way the other Lions treat her she appears to be his wife.
[20:38] <Ginko> "Gold armor, noted for both lack of protection and ability to identify key targets on a battlefield." She mumbles quietly.
06[20:38] * Isamu whistles as he watches the bustling market. "Don't see places like this too often back home. Lots of money to be passed around here."
[20:39] <Sanji> "Not all of it legally" Sanji remarks holding his pack closer
01[20:39] <~KingGheedorah> 6The third, also a woman though as different from the other as night and day, takes you a moment to recognize under a suit of heavy lamellar armor nearly to match the tall man's. A sinuous, athletic woman in her mid twenties with her dark hair in a single long braid and a no-dachi as tall as the Kaiu Wall. It is clearly the Matsu woman from Umoeru Mura; Matsu Fumiyo.
[20:39] <Ginko> "Oh...oh dear."
[20:40] <Hiroshi> "Heh, looks like the guards couldn't get her either."
[20:41] <Jun> "Oh no. Just look away, perhaps she won't notice us..."
[20:41] <Isamu> "Of course. Naive to think it all is done within the confines of good business." Isamu remarks. "Hmm, is that? Oh, well I didn't expect to see her here."
[20:42] <Hiroshi> "Hmm, probably not the worst thing if she knows we're here.  Still, no particular /need/ to get ourselves involved.  Let's just go about our business."
01[20:43] <~KingGheedorah> 6Directly across from them on the other end of the square is a group of Cranes; equally respendent in their blue-and-silver regalia. Though there are less of them, and they are markedly less armed and armored, they carry themselves with a haughty aloofness and more or less completely disregard the Lions. The Lions, on the other hand, talk and laugh and jeer at their 'cousins' openly.
06[20:44] * Sanji sneers
[20:44] <Ginko> "I am starting to think that walking into the Crane village with a treasured sword was the better option."
06[20:45] * Sanji glares at Ginko
[20:45] <Isamu> "Yes, and then let ourselves get hung by that crazy Daidoji. My neck actually feels safer here." Isamu offers in a hushed tone.
[20:45] <Jun> "As am I. I don't know if our Matsu friend will be on our side this time."
06[20:45] * Ginko disregards the glare and continues moving, browsing the stalls as they pass them, looking for a good place to stop for food.
[20:46] <Hiroshi> "Well, I've heard more than a few tales about Lion battle-prowess.  Usually from Lions, however.  It could be an interesting spectacle."
[20:46] <Jun> "Preferably with us watching from the sidelines."
[20:47] <Hiroshi> "With her, the tales of our various battles over a number of drinks would probably be enough."
[20:47] <Ginko> "Haven't you heard, Hiroshi?"  Ginko looks back to make certain Imako isn't in earshot, and then grins.  "Lion are the strongest fighters.  Akodo said so."
[20:47] <Hiroshi> "So I understand, yes."
01[20:49] <~KingGheedorah> 6There are a variety of merchants selling food, mostly Mantis cuisine imported from fishing villages and port towns.
[20:49] <Isamu> "Everyone who's anyone says they're the strongest." Isamu shrugs as he follows. "So ideas where we will sleep tonight. My back could really use a mat instead of grass for once."
06[20:50] * Hiroshi stops at a couple stands, buying a small something to eat now, and some more easily stored food for later.
06[20:50] * Sanji looks for fish cakes
[20:51] <Hiroshi> "Let's check the inns.  I'm pretty much done here."
01[20:51] <~KingGheedorah> 6There are indeed fish cakes.
06[20:54] * Sanji purchases 10 fish cakes
06[20:54] * Ginko also purchases enough to eat on the go, and nods. "We might as well find a place to store our things while we're here."
[20:55] <Hiroshi> "Right."
[20:55] <Isamu> "If we could, the inns off the main road might be the best choice. Less traffic to try and finger us as those ones from Umoeru Mura."
06[20:55] * Hiroshi heads to check out the various inns.
[20:56] <Hiroshi> "I'm not too worried about that.  They're likely to concerned about the other problems to have spread much word about us."
06[20:56] * Jun grabs some foods for the road, mostly salted fishes and dried fruits, and heads off to check the inn scene.
01[20:59] <~KingGheedorah> 6Most of the inns are clustered in the district to the north of the market square, past the small park where the Lions have apparently decided to hold court. To your relief Fumiyo doesn't seem to recognize you or even register your presence, lacking any Crane colors or mons.
01[21:00] <~KingGheedorah> 6While passing, you do bear witness, even if only for a few moments, to the waifish woman singing, however.
06[21:02] * Isamu lags behind the group a bit at the sound of the singing. Trying to stay with the crowds he attempts to hear any more.
01[21:04] <~KingGheedorah> 6In a voice that could fairly be likened to honey poured over thunder the young woman sings of the exploits in battle of a brave son of Akodo leading a greatly-overmatched company of Lions to a great victory against the Unicorn before the walls of Toshi sano Kanemochi Kaezu. The song is at times tragic, lamenting the loss of son many young samurai; and at times inspiring, as the invincible spirit of the Lion clan prevails against impossible odds. There is no part of it that is not beautiful beyond words, and when her song is finished the Lions burst into cheers and applause, with the tall man in the gilded armor beaming on proudly.
06[21:12] * Ginko smiles lightly. "I'm sure the Mantis must be thrilled to have Lions singing war ballads in their town, in full gear no less."
06[21:13] * Isamu stands in awe of the song. For a moment he was swept up in its story. Once it closes he cautiously glances around him and picks up the pace as he makes a speedy retreat back to the others.
[21:13] <Hiroshi> (turning back to the others, speaking in a low voice:) "Ah, that's who this is."  (pointing to the man, and then to the woman:) "Akodo Noburo, the subject off the song, and Ikoma Megumi, his wife.  And I can't tell from here, but I suspect our Matsu friend is in a foul mood."
[21:15] <Jun> "I suspect that woman is always unhappy about something."
[21:15] <Ginko> "Agreed."
[21:16] <Ginko> "Well, enjoyable as that was, I'm not a fan of sticking around here in full war dress.  Let's find an inn."
[21:16] <Jun> "Agreed."
06[21:17] * Sanji nods
[21:17] <Isamu> "Yeah, let's. My feet are killing me." Isamu says as he returns to the group.
06[21:19] * Ginko moves on to the north district to find a place to stay.
06[21:20] * Sanji follows
01[21:21] <~KingGheedorah> 6The district is much smaller than the market district, and circular. There are six inns, a geisha house, and several smaller hostels, mostly for the working poor. A group of young Cranes mills about the front of the geisha house. There aren't too many Lions in sight here.
06[21:23] * Ginko snorts in amusement at the Crane soldiers, and turns, making a broad gesture. "These are our options. Thoughts?"
[21:23] <Hiroshi> "One of the inns will do, I think."
[21:23] <Ginko> "Jun is in favor of the geisha house, obviously."
[21:23] <Sanji> "The geisha house didn't work out so well last time, so an Inn I think"
06[21:24] * Jun glares at Ginko. "That was just one unfortunate incident and you know it."
06[21:25] * Ginko smiles back at Jun, but nods. "I'm thinking the inn as well. Incident or not, given its current company it's a place to avoid."
06[21:25] * Sanji frowns at Ginko
[21:26] <Ginko> "Don't give me that look.  You're carrying something that we don't want discovered yet, and lest you forget, the man who tried to have us arrested was a Crane."
[21:26] <Isamu> "Aye, perhaps another time Jun. I'll buy you a round next time we have the chance."
[21:27] <Hiroshi> "Well, we can always stay at the inn and spend the evening first at the geisha house, if nothing more pressing awaits us."
[21:27] <Ginko> "Acceptable?"
[21:28] <Sanji> "Very well..."
[21:28] <Hiroshi> "Before we rent out our rooms, there's another matter.  How long are we going to stay here?"
[21:28] <Jun> "If you feel that way, Isamu-san," Jun says, attempting to brush the whole 'geisha house incident' aside for now.
[21:28] <Hiroshi> "In Shaisa, I mean."
[21:30] <Ginko> "No clue.  We'll pay per day until we have a course of action.  Unless it's heinously expensive."
[21:31] <Hiroshi> "I suppose.  Let's go, we can sort that out later."
06[21:31] * Ginko picks an inn at random and heads thataway.
06[21:31] * Isamu lets out a chuckle at Jun. "Well we are here for work are we not?" Isamu adds after finishing his laugh.
06[21:31] * Hiroshi follows along.
06[21:31] * Sanji looks for one with little crane milling around it
[21:32] <Jun> "We work?"
[21:33] <Hiroshi> "We're mostly here while we pass north.  We'll spend at least the night here, but you never know what'll happen."
01[21:33] <~KingGheedorah> 6The first inn you reach is a modestly-appointed tea-house with rooms available on the second floor, called the 'Emerald Dragon'.
06[21:34] * Ginko pretends that she did not, in fact, lead them to a tea-house on purpose, though she is mentally rubbing her hands together gleefully.
[21:34] <Hiroshi> "Hmm, I'm okay with this.  If no-one has any objections..."
[21:34] <Sanji> "An interesting choice"
[21:35] <Isamu> "Tea?" Isamu asks slightly incredulously.
[21:36] <Jun> "I am not opposed to this."
[21:36] <Hiroshi> "What, you've never enjoyed a nice, relaxing tea?  I could go for it, to be honest, after our recent travels."
[21:37] <Sanji> "Indeed"
[21:37] <Ginko> "Yes." Ginko nods her head emphatically.
06[21:38] * Ginko heads inside!
06[21:38] * Hiroshi steps into the Inn
06[21:38] * Sanji follows
06[21:38] * Isamu sighs and shrugs. "There are worse things I guess." He follows after the group.
01[21:40] <~KingGheedorah> 6The interior is mostly empty. A pretty dark-haired girl of about fifteen is behind the counter, polishing teacups. A man who must be her father is cooking pot-stickers under an awning out front. A petite Crane woman in her early thirties is sitting alone in one corner, reading, a pot of tea unattended on her table. There are three other Cranes in the teahouse, but all are sitting or idling a respectful distance away from her. They bristle when you enter.
06[21:41] * Ginko pays no mind to the Crane, approaching. "Excuse me, we're looking for a place to stay, if you have rooms."
06[21:43] * Ginko almost hitches in her introduction as her mind catches up to her, but she continues to speak her piece.
01[21:45] <~KingGheedorah> 6The young girl behind the counter smiles.1 "Of course! Rooms are one bu a night; and I keep them clean myself! May I offer you some tea?"
06[21:45] * Hiroshi does his best to act naturally, going along with Ginko's attempt to get rooms.
[21:45] <Hiroshi> "I'd love some tea, thank you."
06[21:45] * Ginko smiles. "Yes, a pot of genmaicha for me would do perfectly."
[21:46] <Jun> "What ever you have ready is good enough."
06[21:47] * Ginko glances back. "Do we want to divide the rooms, or just take one apiece?"
01[21:47] <~KingGheedorah> "Right away,"6 she beams, taking a pot off of the stove and pouring it into five cups for you.1 "Are you passing through on pilgrimage? We get many travellers headed from Crab lands to Shinden Osano-Wo."
[21:47] <Jun> "Cheaper to divide the rooms."
[21:48] <Hiroshi> "I'm fine with a shared room, but I'll defer if it leaves people uncomfortable."
[21:48] <Ginko> "Well, I was thinking we could throw you three in one, and have us in the other."
[21:48] <Isamu> "I'm sure we'll be fine, together." Isamu says as he looks around the room, while avoiding looking at any of the Crane patrons.
01[21:48] <~KingGheedorah> 6The three Crane bushi watch you intently but say nothing. The woman in the corner does not appear to notice you, or anything else aside from her book.
06[21:49] * Sanji fishes two bu from his purse and hands them to the girl "A separate room please"
[21:49] <Hiroshi> (to the girl behind the counter, while taking a cup:) "Ah thank you.  No, we're not on pilgrimage as such."
06[21:49] * Ginko takes her cup, inhaling the scent and letting out a sigh of utter satisfaction. "Oh how I have missed my genmaicha."
[21:50] <Hiroshi> *sip*
01[21:51] <~KingGheedorah> 6The tea isn't quite the best you've ever had, but after your long journey and compared to stale water found in a pirate cove it might as well be thrice-distilled sake.
01[21:52] <~KingGheedorah> 6The girl starts rummaging through a small box under the counter.1 "How many rooms will you need?"
[21:52] <Ginko> "Three, from the sound of it."
[21:53] <Ginko> "One for him, one for the other two men, and one for us."
01[21:53] <~KingGheedorah> 6She produces three keys.1 "That will be three bu for the night then, madam. If you are staying longer, you can pay all at once, or as you go."
06[21:54] * Ginko nods, pulling out her purse. She tosses a coin down. "I'll pay the first night, and then we can go in rotation."
[21:55] <Hiroshi> "Right then."
06[21:55] * Hiroshi grabs the key for the room he and Isamu will be sharing.
[21:56] <Jun> "If you insist."
06[21:56] * Ginko takes the key, and a long sip of tea, shuddering a bit in joy.
06[21:56] * Sanji hands her the two coins "Two nights"
[21:56] <Hiroshi> "Hold on, we don't even know if we're staying that long."
01[21:57] <~KingGheedorah> 6The girl takes your money and hands you a trio of keys.
[21:57] <Ginko> "Apparently he wants to."
[21:57] <Ginko> "I'm not opposed to it myself."
[21:57] <Isamu> "You are a true friend Hiroshi." Isamu says as he finds himself an empty seat in the main seating area, hopefully far from the other occupants.
[21:58] <Ginko> "I'm going to go put my stuff down upstairs."
[21:58] <Hiroshi> "Well, we'll work it out later." (to the girl:) "If you could show us to our rooms, please.  We have some things to drop off."
06[21:59] * Ginko finishes her cup of tea in another long pull, and sets it down. "I'll take another when I get back, if it's not a trouble."
01[21:59] <~KingGheedorah> 6Abruptly the woman in the corner stands and, tucking her book under an arm, strides over to the counter. Her hair is long and flowing and dyed white, as is Crane style, and her eyes are crystal blue. Though the signs of age are beginning to show she is still quite the beauty. Her face is set in a serene, unreadable expression, and she regards her Crane attendants, the pair behind the counter, and yourselves from under eyes that appear half-closed under her heavy lashes.
01[22:00] <~KingGheedorah> 6She lays a koku coin on the counter and nods politely to the girl.1 "Thank you, child."6 The girl blushes bright red and bows low.1 "T-t-t-thank you, Kakita-sama,"6 she manages. The Kakita woman glances at you for a brief second before turning and striding out of the tea house, her attendants scrabbling to follow. One of them shoots the five of you a dirty look.
06[22:01] * Ginko blinks. "I am not sure what just happened, and I don't want to know."
06[22:02] * Hiroshi lets out a sigh. "I think I can venture a guess."
[22:02] <Ginko> "This conversation can wait a moment, I think."
[22:04] <Hiroshi> "Right.  For now, let's get settled here."
06[22:04] * Ginko nods, and gestures to the girl, hoping she isn't still star-struck. "Would you terribly mind showing us our rooms?"
01[22:06] <~KingGheedorah> "Oh,"6 she blinks, flushing an even deeper red.1 "Y-yes, of course. My apologies."6 She bows nearly to the floor and scurries off upstairs.
06[22:07] * Ginko follows after the girl, shaking her head with a chuckle.
06[22:07] * Hiroshi follows along, dropping off his belongings in the designated room once he is shown it.
06[22:07] * Sanji follows
06[22:08] * Jun walks along, keeping close to Sanji.
01[22:09] <~KingGheedorah> 6She leads you to a trio of rooms at the very end of a short hallway and opens the farthest one for you. They are sparse, and not terribly large, but very clean, as promised. Each room features a wall-mounted mirror, a low writing desk, a few daisho stands, a bundle of tatami mats, and a basin filled with fresh water.
06[22:09] * Ginko sneaks in to claim the room.
01[22:10] <~KingGheedorah> "If you need anything, I am downstairs,"6 she says in a cheery tone, bowing and then hurrying back downstairs.
06[22:10] * Ginko immediately stows away her naginata, and begins to shuck her armor. "Oh kami, I feel so much lighter now."
06[22:10] * Jun tugs on Sanji's clothes, whispering "You and I need to speak. In private."
06[22:11] * Sanji finds his door and opens it. "Very well"
06[22:11] * Hiroshi drops off most of his belongings, including changing out of his armor into a set of clothes not yet ruined by blood.
06[22:12] * Ginko exits her room after a moment, and stays by the door, speaking to Hiroshi. "So, I assume you made the same connection about who she was as I did. So do tell, what was that whole deal about when she left?"
06[22:12] * Isamu waits down in the main seating area. Calmly watching the entrance as he rests his weary feet. He sighs contently as he relaxes some.
06[22:12] * Sanji holds the door open for Jun "If you don't mind"
06[22:12] * Jun enters the room.
06[22:13] * Sanji enters after and closes the door, locking it
[22:14] <Jun> "A tad unnecessary, don't you think?"
06[22:14] * Sanji gives the room a cursory glance and then turns to Jun. "You said you wanted privacy"
[22:14] <Hiroshi> "Oh, I suspect it had to do with not wanting to be around us.  'Dirty ronin' and all that.  Seems to be a bit of a theme with the Crane.  On a side note, did you notice her sword?"
[22:14] <Sanji> "Someone walking in on our conversation would disrupt that"
[22:15] <Ginko> "No.  Should I have?"
[22:15] <Sanji> "Assuming you wish to speak to me" Sanji continues setting down his travel  pack
[22:15] <Jun> "Let me see that sword you picked up in the monastery."
[22:15] <Hiroshi> "Remember the one we picked up in that monastery?"
[22:15] <Ginko> "The one that we're trying to avoid having discovered?"
[22:16] <Hiroshi> "The one she had was almost identical."
06[22:16] * Sanji frowns but pulls the blade from his hiding place
[22:16] <Ginko> "...oh."
[22:16] <Ginko> "...ah."
[22:16] <Hiroshi> "Did you recognize who she was?"
[22:16] <Sanji> "What of it? I would rather not take it out right now"
[22:17] <Hiroshi> "In case you didn't, she's a well known Kakita duelist."
[22:17] <Ginko> "She's Ryuunosuke's tutor, more to the point."
06[22:17] * Jun looks over the sword, noting the details and comparing them in her head. "It was just like the woman-in-the-hall's."
[22:17] <Hiroshi> "I was getting to that, but it seems I don't need to."
[22:17] <Ginko> "I remember seeing her at the Topaz Championship."
[22:18] <Ginko> "And now I'm worried that she knows exactly who we are."
06[22:18] * Sanji looks at it in surprise.
[22:18] <Sanji> "I didn't notice..."
[22:18] <Ginko> "I wonder how much she knows about our...situation."
[22:19] <Hiroshi> "Also possible.  Well, she didn't do anything to us yet at least.  Let's hope that she wouldn't in the middle of a Mantis town."
[22:19] <Jun> "You didn't...? What's wrong with you? You need to pay attention more. Now put that thing away."
[22:20] <Hiroshi> "Thinking about it..."
06[22:20] * Sanji hides the blade once more, his face twisted into a grimace. "I must apologize..."
[22:20] <Ginko> "We can hope." Ginko sighs, and then pushes off the wall.  "Well, whatever, there's a cup of tea downstairs with my name on it.  Come on, let's see what information we can get about what's going on."
[22:20] <Sanji> "My mind was elsewhere for a moment"
[22:21] <Jun> "Whatever. Now, unlock that door so I can put my things away."
[22:21] <Hiroshi> "Hmm.  She shouldn't know about us at Umoeru Mora, and Ryuunosuke already got us, so I don't think she has reason to bother us for now.  I'll join you for that tea though."
06[22:21] * Sanji produces the key and unlocks the door
06[22:21] * Hiroshi heads down to the first floor.
06[22:22] * Ginko leaves the key in the door for Jun and heads down with Hiroshi.
06[22:23] * Jun leaves and goes to her room to put her things away.
06[22:25] * Sanji locks the door as she leaves stows his travel pack
06[22:26] * Sanji places his regular blade on a daisho stand and begins to wash his face
06[22:26] * Ginko will take a cup of tea if there is one, and talk to the girl. "Sorry to bother you, but I was wondering, what's going on in the merchant district? There are a lot of Lion and Crane walking around like they're ready to get warring."
[22:26] <Isamu> "So, how is the room?" Isamu asks Hiroshi as he returns.
06[22:27] * Jun lies down onto the bedding. Finally, some human comforts!
01[22:27] <~KingGheedorah> "Oh, yes,"6 the girl leans in excitedly.1 "It's all the talk these days."
[22:28] <Hiroshi> "It's a room, I suppose.  Clean as advertised."
01[22:29] <~KingGheedorah> "The Lion arrived two weeks ago from Kudo to the west. They say they are taking back all the provinces given to the Hare, because they belonged to the Lion in the first place. Have you seen Akodo Noburo-sama hold court in the market? Isn't he the most handsomest man in all of Rokugan? And Ikoma Megumi-sama - she is so beautiful, and her singing would make even a Crab weep, so they say."
[22:30] <Hiroshi> "Ha, maybe.  I do wonder a bit about their marriage though."
[22:30] <Ginko> "So I take it the Crane are not enthusiastic about the Lion presence here?"
01[22:32] <~KingGheedorah> "/They/ arrived just one week ago,"6 she continues.1 "From Ookami Toshi. They say Daidoji Rokuro is calling the Lion's annexing towns a declaration of war. His son is here, to restore order, they say. And he brought the great Kakita Ayami with him!"
01[22:33] <~KingGheedorah> "I hear Daidoji Rokuro's son is very handsome, as well. But he walks with a limp. That must be terrible."
06[22:34] * Ginko restrains a reaction, masking anything by taking a sip of her tea. "I can only imagine."
01[22:36] <~KingGheedorah> "But Kakita Ayami! /The/ Kakita Ayami! In /our/ tea-house!"6 She is practically leaping out of her skin in excitement.1 "I can't wait to tell my friends! They'll never believe me. They say she will only take a husband when she finds a man who can defeat her, and that's why she is unmarried. I wish I could be just like her - /SLASH/, and it's so fast that you don't even see it!"6 She mimics what a peasant girl might imagine proper iaijutsi technique to be.
06[22:37] * Ginko smiles in good cheer. "It is good fortune indeed. You ought to use it as bragging rights, might draw more customers."
06[22:38] * Isamu offers an amused look as he listens.
[22:38] <Hiroshi> "Hmm, that explains one surprisingly unwed woman in this town."
06[22:38] * Sanji emerges from his room, blade on his hip and comes downstairs
[22:38] <Sanji> (after locking it)
01[22:38] <~KingGheedorah> "We /should/! Can we father? Can we?" 6The father chuckles from his pot of dumplings.1 "That's enough, Hitomi,"6 he says gently.1 "I am sure our guests don't want to hear you prattle on."
[22:39] <Ginko> "Thank you for the words.  We were a bit worried about what was going on.  The Mantis, I assume, are trying to moderate the situation?"
06[22:39] * Sanji then remembers about the blade and goes back to his room
01[22:41] <~KingGheedorah> "The magistrate, Tsurushi Shizuka-sama, has her hands full keeping them from killing each other on the streets,"6 the father says.1 "So far there's been no blood spilt, Fortunes be praised, but mark my words, all it will take is one spark."
[22:42] <Ginko> "I see." She bows her head in thanks.
01[22:43] <~KingGheedorah> "The Lion want to take the town, citing some century-old document. The Crane claim it should be /theirs/, with Ookami Toshi so close. Nevermind that Shaisa's had a Mantis flag since as long as anyone can remember. But Kyuden Ashinasdashi is too far away, and the Clan is unlikely to risk the ire of the Lion over this little place. Not when the Lion don't have ships for them to burn, at any rate,"6 he laughs.
06[22:47] * Ginko laughs along with him, before finishing her second cup of tea. "Oh, it's so good." She pauses. "You know, the lady Kakita was reading a book when we came in. Do you know what she happened to be reading?"
01[22:49] <~KingGheedorah> 6Hitomi looks embarassed.1 "I was too frightened to get close,"6 she admits.
06[22:51] * Hiroshi chuckles a bit.
[22:51] <Ginko> "Ah.  How disappointing.  I am something of an avid reader myself, so I wanted to know what an elite warrior reads in her spare time."
[22:51] <Hiroshi> "Thinking about her... if Kakita-san's waiting to marry the man who can out-duel her, I wonder if our Matsu acquaintance is waiting to marry the one who can out-drink her."
[22:52] <Isamu> "I wouldn't put it past her."
[22:54] <Hiroshi> "Hmm, maybe that's why Akodo-san didn't marry her instead."
06[22:56] * Sanji changes into his spare clothing and sits on his bed.
[22:56] <Ginko> "Well, now that we know what's going on, we're a lot better off.  Thank you both very much."
06[22:57] * Jun digs through her bag, pulling out a secret shame, her favorite romance novel, "Concealed Weapons," and begins to read. Ah, finally, some time alone.
[22:57] <Sanji> After ensuring that the door is locked, he carefully takes the blade from his hiding spot.
[22:58] <Hiroshi> "Hmm.  Just the matter of what to do for the rest of today.  Staying put may be safer considering the tension, but it might not considering some... particulars currently in the town."
06[22:59] * Sanji , after a moment of indecision, draws the blade and studies it closely
[23:00] <Isamu> "Eh, stay cooped up in here?" Isamu protests. "This place could have some interesting things to see. Besides, the impending war of Lions and Cranes, you know."
[23:01] <Ginko> "I'm up for some wandering, honestly.  If there's something we can do here to get on some good sides, well.  I'm not opposed."
[23:02] <Isamu> "See, there's some spirit! I just needed a breather to get off my feet." Isamu hops back up. His stomach then groans in protest. "Eh... maybe after something to eat."
[23:03] <Ginko> "You didn't get anything on the way here?  Come on, you can pick up something from the market stalls on the way."
[23:04] <Isamu> "But there was that singing and I got distracted." Isamu starts.
[23:04] <Hiroshi> "Oh well, there'll be plenty of chances for you to eat."
06[23:05] * Hiroshi stands up to leave the tea house, and walks to the exit.
06[23:05] * Ginko stands up and bows to Hitomi and her father. "Thank you for the tea. We'll be back this evening."
[23:05] <Hiroshi> (turning back:) "Thanks again for the tea, it was wonderful."
01[23:05] <~KingGheedorah> 6The blade is of impeccable craftsmanship and gleams blue, shimmering in the noonday sun pouring in from the window. The way the light plays along the length of the blade makes it seem as if there were a hazy blue aura about it.
01[23:06] <~KingGheedorah> 6Inscribed on the side is the word 'Passion'.
06[23:07] * Ginko heads out of the inn, gesturing for Isamu to come along.
[23:08] <Sanji> "Passion..."
06[23:09] * Isamu quickly follows after Ginko, not wanting to miss a chance for food.
06[23:09] * Hiroshi heads out with Ginko and Isamu.
06[23:09] * Sanji sheathes the blade and wraps it in his blanket
[23:09] <Sanji> "I may never have a chance like this again..."
[23:12] <Isamu> "So, that market seemed to be a meeting place for all both sides of this little territorial dispute. Perhaps we look around the outskirts. Maybe the Magistrate's?"
[23:13] <Hiroshi> "Hmm, I was thinking of watching developments at the square."
[23:14] <Isamu> "That mess? Are you waiting for something to happen with that oil barrel?"
[23:14] <Ginko> "Well, if we wanted to find the major players, that's probably where we'd go to look."
[23:15] <Ginko> "We can also memorize Rokuro's face and make sure to avoid him at all costs."
[23:16] <Hiroshi> "I don't think we need to go for that reason, but if anything happens it will probably be there."
[23:16] <Isamu> "If you guys say so. I'd avoid that place like a death sentence." Isamu shrugs and tucks his arm back inside his kimono. "What are the chances he'll know who we are?"
06[23:16] * Sanji empties his travel pack and restocks it with his fishing pole, his lantern, his pot and the blade bound in the blanket
06[23:17] * Sanji then fits his regular blade in his obi and straps his pack on
[23:17] <Hiroshi> "Isamu, if he knew who we were, I would want to be there just to bear witness to the miracle that caused it."
[23:18] <Ginko> "Well, then let's go and see what's happening."
06[23:18] * Ginko starts back the way they came.
[23:19] <Isamu> "Point taken." Isamu notes as he follows.
06[23:19] * Sanji steps out into the hall and locks his door. Then proceeds down to the common room
06[23:36] * Sanji walks up to the girl at the front "Do you happen to know where Miss Kakita might have gone?"
01[23:37] <~KingGheedorah> 6The girl blinks.1 "Y-you mean Kakita Ayami-sama? I have heard the Cranes are the honored guests of Lord Yorimoto-sama... Maybe to his manse?"
[23:37] <Sanji> "Thank you"
06[23:38] * Sanji nods and leaves
01[23:38] <~KingGheedorah> 6The market square is much the same way you left it; Cranes on one side, Lions on the other. A few Mantis archers patrol the streets with worried looks on their faces.
06[23:39] * Sanji searches the stalls for bleach
[23:40] <Ginko> "Okay, now what."
06[23:41] * Isamu eagerly approaches one of the food vendors and buys a bundle of rice balls. After purchasing them he begins to feast. "Don't... know... Was... Followin... Your.... Lead..." He says in between bites.
[23:43] <Hiroshi> "Well, I was thinking of watching here for a while.  We could check out some other places like the magistrate's, or look around for the Kakita, but anything along either of those lines doesn't seem particularly wise.  Unless you have an idea of something better to do, of course."
[23:45] <Ginko> "My first instinct is to get on the side of the local law, honestly.  Right now, we're a bunch of disenfranchised kids with no way to do much of anything except react.  And I hate reacting."
06[23:46] * Isamu finishes a batch of his rice balls and finally cleans up. "Well if you ask me, no one is going to listen to us. Best thing I think we can do the listening instead."
[23:47] <Hiroshi> "Doesn't sound bad, but this isn't Umoeru Mora where we can clean up the local bandit infestation."
[23:47] <Jun> After a while, Jun finds a place to leave off in her novel and secrets it away into her bag, where it probably won't see the light of day for a long while.
06[23:48] * Ginko purses her lips in frustration. "I know. I know."
01[23:48] <~KingGheedorah> 6Sanji, a quick search brings you to stall selling women's cosmetics, which the vendor claims is imported from Kyuden Doji.
06[23:49] * Sanji purchases some bleach
[23:49] <Jun> and after a quick wash up and a clean set of clothing, Jun makes her way back down to the common area.
01[23:53] <~KingGheedorah> 6Ikoma Megumi seems to be holding another impromptu concerto. A fair-sized audience has gathered for this one. The Cranes at the far end of the square watch on with barely-concealed sneers.
[23:53] <Isamu> "So, ultimately what happens if this thing boils over?" Isamu asks as the trio watches the square. "I mean a bunch of haughty Crane and Lions are killed. What's so bad about this?"
[23:54] <Hiroshi> "For us? Nothing really, as long as they don't come after us."
[23:54] <Ginko> "It's a pointless waste of resources and manpower over some chest-thumping."
[23:55] <Hiroshi> "When honor's at stake, not so many would call it pointless.  Not to mention the land issue."
06[23:56] * Sanji returns to the inn, making his way up to his room as quickly as possible
01[23:56] <~KingGheedorah> 6Sanji, you spot Jun in the common room as you enter.
01[23:57] <~KingGheedorah> 6In the market square, you notice that there is one Lion not present at Akodo Noburo's imprompto court: Matsu Fumiyo is markedly absent.
[23:58] <Ginko> "Wonder where she went off to."
[23:58] <Jun> "Oh hey, it's you. What's with the backpack?"
[23:58] <Ginko> "Probably not enough alcohol there to keep her interest."
[23:59] <Isamu> "Tch... After what we've gone through it really seems pointless like Ginko says." Isamu scans the crowds. "What's the point to is all. More trouble, more war, more fuel on the fire." Isamu pauses to look around for a moment for Fumiyo. "Probably went for a drink."
[23:59] <Hiroshi> "Hmm, might be worth checking out."
[23:59] <Hiroshi> "To the geisha house?"
[23:59] <Ginko> "I haven't seen any Crane running away, so I don't know if she's there."
Session Time: Tue Apr 19 00:00:00 2011
[00:00] <Hiroshi> "Well, there doesn't seem to be a fight yet, so I don't know that she'd be anywhere else."
[00:00] <Isamu> "If we must." Isamu chuckles to Hiroshi. "Though I think Jun will be sore if she finds out we went without her."
[00:00] <Sanji> "It's a secret" Sanji gives an awkward smile and then returns to his room, locking the door behind him
[00:01] <Hiroshi> "Well, it's right next to the inn.  If she's there, we can just get Jun."
[00:01] <Ginko> "I wonder if talking to her is a great idea, but we don't have many other options."
[00:01] <Jun> After Sanji leaves, Jun takes a sip of tea, mumbling, "Idiot."
[00:02] <Hiroshi> "Well, she's not going to kill us for doing so or anything.  At the very least, it's a change from before."
06[00:02] * Hiroshi starts back to the geisha house.
06[00:02] * Sanji sets about bleaching his hair and preparing himself to look like a proper crane
[00:02] <Hiroshi> "Unless, you'd rather keep watching here."
06[00:02] * Ginko shakes her head, but follows after him. "No point."
[00:03] <Isamu> "I don't know. She seemed awfully belligerent back in Umoeru Mura." Isamu follows.
01[00:04] <~KingGheedorah> 6After your long (and dirty) travelling, it takes you about a half-hour to clean yourself up to proper Crane standards.
01[00:06] <~KingGheedorah> 6When you arrive at the geisha house, the Crane samurai whom had been milling about are gone. A burly doorman eyes you strangely, especially the weapons at your obis.
01[00:06] <~KingGheedorah> "You'll have to leave those aside,"6 he cautions.
[00:06] <Ginko> "How familiar."
06[00:06] * Isamu smiles genuinely. "Ah, not a problem."
06[00:06] * Ginko sighs, and takes her daisho from her obi, presenting them to the man.
06[00:07] * Hiroshi removes his katana. "All of them?"
[00:07] <Hiroshi> (indicating his wakizashi)
01[00:07] <~KingGheedorah> 6He shrugs.1 "I don't mean to offend, samurai-ko-san; but we want to prevent an, ahem, incident."
01[00:07] <~KingGheedorah> "Yes, all of them. They will be well cared for, I promise."
[00:08] <Hiroshi> *sigh* "Very well."
06[00:08] * Hiroshi removes his wakizashi, handing both to the man.
06[00:08] * Sanji puts on his old crane robes and put's his blade in place. He then grabs the bound Kakita blade and proceeds downstairs
06[00:08] * Hiroshi then enters the geisha house.
01[00:09] <~KingGheedorah> "Thank you, samurai-san."6 He takes your weapons and leads you inside, depositing them carefully in a room near the front door. A fat man sitting nearby reading a trashy romance novel 'stands' watch over them.
06[00:10] * Ginko follows them in, adjusting her fan in her obi to keep it more accessible just in case.
[00:10] <Isamu> "Hmm..." Isamu pauses to look at the novel stand.
06[00:11] * Sanji then proceeds to the Yorimoto manse
06[00:12] * Isamu follows after Ginko keeping an eye out for Fumiyo.
01[00:13] <~KingGheedorah> 6This geisha house, the House of Jewelled Sand, is much smaller than the House of Blue Lotus Petals was. The bevy of women (and men) attending to the patrons are no less attractive, however. There are a dozen or so Crane bushi, all of them under twenty, clearly practicing their charm on the girls, or at least trying to. A few off-duty Mantis archers sit in a group and drink. Off to the far corner of the room you easily spot Matsu Fumiyo, alone. She isn't drinking.
06[00:15] * Hiroshi walks over to her. "I'm used to seeing you with a drink at the ready. Would you like one?"
01[00:15] <~KingGheedorah> 6Sanji, you find the Yorimoto manse fairly easily, under the shadow of the magistrate's tower. As you head towards it a small pack of Lion bushi are walking down the street, heading in the opposite direction. One of them slams an armored shoulder into you roughly as he passes. The other two snigger.
06[00:16] * Isamu visibly cringes as Hiroshi boldly approaches the Lion. "Well too late now." He shrugs and cautiously finds an empty seat nearby.
01[00:17] <~KingGheedorah> 6Fumiyo turns to you with a snarl on her lips.1 "Is that supposed to be a jo-"6 Her face screws up in concentration.1 "I remember you. From Umoero Mura. The ronin those Crane dogs wanted to hang."
06[00:17] * Ginko blinks at his approach, and shakes his head. "May the kami help us if he finds a woman he wants to court."
06[00:17] * Sanji frowns and brushes imagined dust off his shoulder
06[00:18] * Ginko follows Isamu and Hiroshi, though, and takes a seat next to Hiroshi.
[00:18] <Sanji> "I see that the Lion grace in battle does not extend to their everyday activities"
[00:18] <Hiroshi> "Good memory.  I see you also managed to get away from the sticky situation at the Blue Lotus."
01[00:19] <~KingGheedorah> "What did you say, you mewling whelp?"6 the Lion demands, his face red with ire.
[00:19] <Sanji> "But their ears are quite clean"
[00:20] <Sanji> "I suppose something on their person must be"
01[00:21] <~KingGheedorah> 6Fumiyo scowls at you.1 "I didn't run. That... that grey-coated oaf whispered something in my ear, and it was like my brain stopped working. And then he dragged me off."
01[00:22] <~KingGheedorah> 6The lion's hand falls to the hilt of his sword.1 "Cranes may talk well, but they can't count well."
06[00:22] * Sanji smirks
[00:22] <Isamu> "But they freed you in the end it seems."
[00:23] <Sanji> "Ah yes, Strength in numbers is it? I should have expected such a ploy"
[00:23] <Hiroshi> "I didn't mean to suggest that you would run; the thought had never entered my mind.  And quite frankly, that sounds like something that guy would do.  He had some...annoying tendencies."
[00:24] <Ginko> "Never explaining anything being one of them."
01[00:24] <~KingGheedorah> "That... that /man/ said some foolishness about 'it not being my time,' and then left. By the time I gathered my wits it was over. If I ever see him again, I'm going to wipe that smug little smirk off of his face."
[00:25] <Sanji> "Forgive me oh grand conqueror, I seem to have forgotten my place"
[00:25] <Hiroshi> "Seems to have worked out though, although I can't imagine you're too happy hearing that particular Ikoma singing for hours on end."
01[00:25] <~KingGheedorah> "Maybe if you Cranes didn't walk about town with your noses in the air you'd see there's twice as many of us as there are you. It might save you the other arm,"6 the Lion sneers.
06[00:25] * Sanji musters in his most condesending voice
06[00:25] * Sanji freezes
[00:26] <Ginko> "So what are you doing here of all places?"
[00:26] <Sanji> "Well maybe if you picked yourself up from among the refuse there would be something worth noticing"
01[00:27] <~KingGheedorah> "Keep talking, Crane, and it will be your friends picking you up off of the street."
01[00:28] <~KingGheedorah> "I was on leave, travelling to visit my sister. Then I was recalled."6 She shrugs.1 "I answered the call. Pity; missed the annual Crab clan brewing competition."
06[00:29] * Sanji sneers and glances at the bundle in his hand
[00:30] <Isamu> "Recalled for this situation?" Isamu inquires.
01[00:31] <~KingGheedorah> 6Fumiyo snorts.1 "What situation? All there is is talk."
01[00:31] <~KingGheedorah> "If I wanted to watch some puffed-up Cranes practicing their swagger I'd go to Winter Court."
06[00:32] * Sanji turns on his heel and walks away towards the manse with a barely audible 'bah' crossing his lips
[00:32] <Hiroshi> "And singing.  (glancing around at all the crane:)  Though it seems you didn't pick the best place to escape that."
01[00:32] <~KingGheedorah> 6Her face darkens slightly at the mention of singing.
01[00:35] <~KingGheedorah> 6The Lions jeer as you exit and walk away, loudly laughing about the oafish Crane trying to start a fight with three Lions.
06[00:35] * Ginko shows no reaction, though her interest is piqued. She decides to take the risk. "It was quite a pleasure to hear, honestly. Especially with the events of recent."
[00:35] <Jun> Tired of all this tea and boring quiet, Jun takes the opportunity to wander about town, taking in the sights.
[00:35] <Hiroshi> "Ginko, unless I'm mistaken much of the issue stems from the singer, not the songs themselves."
01[00:36] <~KingGheedorah> 6The Yorimoto mansion is a long two-storey building that looks more like a ship than a house. A pair of Mantis guards cross their spears in front of the gate as you approach.1 "State your business, please, samurai-san,"6 one of them states.
01[00:37] <~KingGheedorah> "Ikoma Megumi has the best voice in the Clan,"6 Fumiyo grumbles.1 "And a husband who may one day be Clan champion."
[00:38] <Sanji> "I have business with Kakita Ayami-sama."
[00:38] <Ginko> "You don't sound terribly thrilled."
[00:41] <Hiroshi> "Personally, I'm a little curious about that myself.  I can see the appeal in her, but she's almost... crane-ish?"
01[00:41] <~KingGheedorah> "I would not say such things if I were you,"6 Fumiyo grumbles dangerously.
06[00:42] * Isamu quietly coughs at Hiroshi's statement.
06[00:43] * Hiroshi backs off a bit, glancing around. "Err, duly noted."
[00:43] <Ginko> "Forgive my companion, he knows little tact.  But you must admit, they seem somewhat...mismatched."
[00:44] <Ginko> "Seem, mind you.  They certainly looked happy enough."
01[00:44] <~KingGheedorah> "I am Matsu. /Lion/. Akodo Noburo-sama is my Gunso. His wife is a respectable woman of high station. You are /ronin/. Who are you to slander her?"6 She stands abruptly.1 "I will not stand to hear her name besmirched. Any more than any other Lion would."
06[00:45] * Hiroshi bows abruptly. "Sorry!  I meant no offense!"
01[00:46] <~KingGheedorah> "She is not here, samurai-san. I am sorry."6 The guard bows.1 "I believe she is at the market. Or perhaps taking her meal elsewhere."
[00:47] <Sanji> "I see, thank you very much"
06[00:47] * Sanji returns the bow, slightly higher
01[00:47] <~KingGheedorah> "Then mind your tongue when you speak of Ikoma Megumi-san,"6 Fumiyo snarls and storms away.
[00:47] <Ginko> "Well." Ginko says after the woman storms off.  "So much for that."
[00:47] <Sanji> "It appears I must wait then"
06[00:48] * Isamu smiles to his companions. "That went well."
06[00:48] * Sanji looks around for a good place to wait that he can see the gate from
[00:48] <Ginko> "I am tempted to get so drunk that I completely forget this episode ever happened.  For your sake, Hiroshi."
[00:48] <Hiroshi> "Well, we're here.  I could just about use a drink."
01[00:49] <~KingGheedorah> 6Sanji, there is a small tea-house conveniently across the street from the Yorimoto manse.
[00:49] <Sanji> "How convenient"
06[00:50] * Ginko sighs in frustration. "It looks like there isn't anything to do here after all."
06[00:50] * Sanji proceeds to the tea house
[00:50] <Ginko> "We'll stay tonight and tomorrow night and leave."
06[00:51] * Ginko waves her hand and calls for some drink.
06[00:51] * Isamu sighs "Probably for the best. Here, let's have a round on me. Maybe it'll ease some nerves." Isamu offers.
[00:51] <Hiroshi> "I think that sounds like a decent plan.  Both of those, actually."
01[00:53] <~KingGheedorah> 6Meanwhile, in Sanjiland...
01[00:55] <~KingGheedorah> 6After roughly an hour you spot Kakita Ayami walking toward the manse front gates, her three-man entorage in tow. The Crane bushi around her, all young Kakita men, scan the streets and alleyways nervously with hands on their weapons. Ayami, however, walks as if she were trodding the formal gardens at Kyuden Doji, her face a mask of expressionless serenity, seeming to simultaneously take in and ignore her surroundings from half-closed eyes.
06[00:55] * Jun spies on the procession from afar.
06[00:56] * Sanji smiles and puts down the tea he had been sipping. He rises and strides purposefully towards the group
01[00:58] <~KingGheedorah> 6The three bushi accompanying Ayami start as you approach, but calm when they see you are certainly no Lion. One of them frowns.1 "I do not think I have met you before, Crane-san."
[00:59] <Sanji> "Indeed, i don't think you have. I am Kakita Sanji and I have some personal business with Kakita Ayami-sama"
06[01:02] * Jun steps forward once she recognizes Sanji talking to the bodyguards.
01[01:04] <~KingGheedorah> 6Ayami turns to you, head tilted in curiosity ever so slightly.1 "Step forward, then, Kakita Sanji-san,"6 she says, her voice soft and gentle. The other three Crane frown in surprise but step away deferentially out of earshot.
[01:05] <Sanji> "Thanks your for agreeing to meet with me Kakita Ayami-sama" Sanji begins, bowing low
01[01:06] <~KingGheedorah> 6She bows slightly in return.
[01:09] <Sanji> "I know that you are busy, so I shall get straight to the point, I challenge you to a duel. A duel for blades"
06[01:10] * Sanji grabs the sealed blade and allows the blanket to fall off of it
01[01:10] <~KingGheedorah> 6She sighs slightly.1 "How old are you, Kakita Sanji-san?"
06[01:12] * Sanji seems taken aback at the sudden change "I- I am fifteen Kakita Ayami-sama"
01[01:15] <~KingGheedorah> 6She closes her eyes.1 "And for what reason does a fifteen year old young man challenge me?"
06[01:17] * Sanji is speechless
[01:18] <Sanji> "I-"
01[01:20] <~KingGheedorah> "Your bravery is to be commended, Sanji-san,"6 she says gently,1 "But not your wisdom. Both are needed, if you wish to live up to the potential of your family name."
01[01:21] <~KingGheedorah> "Any samurai can kill with a strike. A Kakita knows /when/ to strike, and when to stay his blade."
[01:22] <Sanji> "Yes, of course. Forgive me"
06[01:22] * Sanji bows even lower
01[01:22] <~KingGheedorah> "I am thirty-two years old, Sanji-san. In that time I have killed forty-three samurai in duels. Forty-three samurai with more bravery than wisdom, and who did not know the difference between when to strike and when to stand at ease. I have no wish to make you forty-four."
[01:24] <Sanji> "I must confess, I sought to challenge you for the wrong reasons"
01[01:24] <~KingGheedorah> 6She tilts her head slightly again.1 "Why did you wish to challenge me for my blade?"
01[01:25] <~KingGheedorah> "I must confess, that is a new reason, however poor it may be."
06[01:26] * Sanji chuckles softly
[01:26] <Sanji> "The object was not to be your blade, but my own"
[01:26] <Sanji> "Please, have a look"
06[01:27] * Sanji hands her the blade, sheathed of course
06[01:27] * Jun moves in closer still, wondering just what in the world is going on.
01[01:27] <~KingGheedorah> 6She accepts the blade with a slight bow.1 "This is remarkable craftsmanship, Sanji-san. A work of Kakita master-smiths. Why would you risk such a thing?"
[01:29] <Sanji> "I was trying to return it"
[01:30] <Sanji> "Have a look at the blade itself"
01[01:30] <~KingGheedorah> "Return it?"6 She frowns.1 "It is not yours? To whom does it belong to?"
01[01:30] <~KingGheedorah> 6She unsheaths the blade and glances at the inscription.
01[01:31] <~KingGheedorah> 6Her eyes widen and she slams the weapon back into its saya quickly.1 "Where did you find this,"6 she hisses.
01[01:31] <~KingGheedorah> "Have you any idea of what this is?"
[01:31] <Sanji> "I recovered the blade deep in the lair of a remnant of Chuda supporters who wished to claim my life not one week ago"
06[01:31] * Sanji tilts his head to the side
[01:31] <Sanji> "I have an inkling"
[01:32] <Sanji> "But I wished to seek confirmation"
01[01:32] <~KingGheedorah> "Have you drawn it? Have you used it? How long has it been in your possession?"
[01:33] <Sanji> "No, I have not used it and only drew it once myself. As I said, it has been with me for a week."
01[01:34] <~KingGheedorah> 6She peers at you intently, those heavy-lidded eyes seeming to look straight through you.
06[01:35] * Sanji withers
01[01:37] <~KingGheedorah> 6She studies you for a few long moments, the mysterious blade held still sheathed in a white-knuckled grip in her hand. Her left hand.
01[01:37] <~KingGheedorah> 6Finally, she relaxes.1 "You are very fortunate, I think."
01[01:38] <~KingGheedorah> "Though I need to be certain. Follow me, please."
01[01:38] <~KingGheedorah> 6She turns abruptly and heads towards the manse.
06[01:38] * Sanji bows and follows
03[01:39] * Imako (K@sux-BC2D1F40.carolina.res.rr.com) has joined #L5Rgame
01[01:40] <~KingGheedorah> 6The gate guards nearly drop their spears scrambling to get out of her way. She leads you up a winding path to the Yorimoto manse and then inside. Though the manse looks strange and ship-like on the outside, the interior is every bit as palatial as any noble's mansion or Court gathering.
01[01:42] <~KingGheedorah> 6She takes you to a small side-room where three Crane samurai are idling, two over a game of Go and one half-watching and half-reading. She beckons to the reading one and he leaps up.1 "Y-yes, mila-" "Follow,"6 she says softly, but imperiously. He does so wordlessly, the other two trying not to look concerned as they bend over their game with sudden intensity.
06[01:42] * Jun watches Sanji enter the estate, and rushes off to find everyone else when he disappears inside.
01[01:43] <~KingGheedorah> 6She leads the two of you outside to a small garden; her three escorts left in the foyer of the manse with a wordless gesture. Laying down the mystery sword carefully on a bench, she gestures to this new man.
01[01:43] <~KingGheedorah> "Asahina-san,"6 she says softly, and then strides over, murmuring something in his ear. He pales slightly and turns to you before uttering a short chant.
01[01:44] <~KingGheedorah> 6He raises his hands towards you. A white-hot lance of jade-green energy flies forth, swift as an arrow, aimed directly at your heart.
06[01:45] * Sanji flinches reaching for his normal blade
01[01:45] <~KingGheedorah> 6It seems to go straight /through/ you, to no ill effect whatsoever.
06[01:45] * Sanji stops, and pats his chest where it would have hit, seeming confused
01[01:46] <~KingGheedorah> 6Kakita Ayami seems relieved.1 "Asahina-san, you may go now,"6 she says simply, and he does. She turns to you and bows, slightly moreso than she had before.
01[01:46] <~KingGheedorah> "I apologize, Kakita Sanji-san. I had to be sure."
[01:46] <Sanji> "That was..."
01[01:46] <~KingGheedorah> "Jade, yes."
[01:47] <Sanji> "I see. Well, I cannot fault your caution Kakita Ayami-sama"
01[01:48] <~KingGheedorah> "The sword you recovered is a thing of evil; it is a Bloodsword, a weapon of maho, forged by a traitor with the blood and souls of an entire Clan, disguised as a nemuranai gift to entrap and ultimately destroy the wielder."
06[01:49] * Sanji tries to conceal his shock
[01:49] <Sanji> and fails miserably
[01:50] <Sanji> "I knew it was strange but..."
01[01:50] <~KingGheedorah> "This one was given to a man named Doji Tanaka, whom abruptly confessed his love for an eleven year old geisha to his assembled court, and then leapt to his death off the cliffs of Kyuden Doji, bearing this blade. Neither him nor it were ever seen again. That was more than seven hundred years ago. An ill omen."
[01:51] <Sanji> "I see. What will you do with it Kakita Ayami-sama?"
01[01:52] <~KingGheedorah> 6She looks at it and sighs.
01[01:52] <~KingGheedorah> "I will return with it to Kyuden Doji. Perhaps the Asahina shugenja there can destroy it, or even purify it."
[01:53] <Sanji> "I see. Thank you Kakita Ayami-sama; is there any way I could be of assistance?"
01[01:55] <~KingGheedorah> "You have done more than enough, I think, Sanji-san."
01[01:55] <~KingGheedorah> "I will carry your name along with the sword."
01[01:55] <~KingGheedorah> "Please, leave me. I am suddenly very tired and wish to be alone."
[01:56] <Sanji> "Of course Kakita Ayami-sama"
06[01:56] * Sanji bows and leaves the room
01[01:58] <~KingGheedorah> 6As you leave the gardens you see her remove her own blade from her obi and kneel, laying it across her knees, her head bent and eyes closed.
06[02:01] * Sanji pauses in the hall
01[02:02] <~KingGheedorah> 6The three Cranes that had beena ccompanying Ayami previously are standing around, looking confused. They regard you with a mixture of jealousy, wonder and slight anger.
06[02:04] * Sanji nods to them and walks past
01[02:04] <~KingGheedorah> 6They look like they really want to say something to you but know better.
06[02:08] * Sanji leaves the manse with conflicted feelings and heads back towards the Tea shop he is staying at, taking a roundabout route through the market
01[02:16] <~KingGheedorah> 6You arrive back at the inn.
[02:16] <Jun> meanwhile, Jun is about ready to pull her hair out trying to find the others. She is sitting, frustrated, in the inn.
[02:17] <Hiroshi> (after actually only having a couple drinks:) "I'm going back to the inn.  Not really gonna get drunk this early, but it took the edge off."
[02:18] <Ginko> "Hn."
[02:19] <Hiroshi> "Unless you guys want to wander around town some more."
06[02:19] * Ginko traces patterns on the table out of boredom, occasionally enjoying the cup of tea. "No real point. We've got nothing."
06[02:19] * Hiroshi leaves the geisha house and walks back over to the inn.
[02:19] <Isamu> "Bah, you're no fun." Isamu waves at Hiroshi. "You drag me here, and then expect to leave after only a few..." His voice trails off. "I think I need another drink."
06[02:20] * Jun spots Sanji. "You. Upstairs. My room. Now." She then stomps of to set up something like a sitting area.
06[02:21] * Sanji looks at her in confusion as she stomps upstairs, then shrugs and follows
06[02:22] * Ginko leans back in the chair and sighs. "Right now, I could really just use some sleep."
[02:24] <Jun> "Do you know just how stupid you were today? DO YOU!?"
06[02:25] * Sanji is speechless
[02:26] <Ginko> "I'm going back as well.  Thanks for the wine, Isamu.  We'll see about taking off tomorrow."
06[02:26] * Isamu looks over at Ginko with a somewhat alcohol addled look. "Sleep... I don't know how you could sleep in a town like this. It's all about ready to..." Isamu places his hand on the table and the flings it towards the ceiling, mimicking an explosion.
[02:27] <Ginko> "At this point, I'm beyond caring."
[02:27] <Sanji> "How do /you/ know how stupid I was today?"
06[02:27] * Isamu shrugs. "Yeah, I'll be back later... Tell that fool Hiroshi not to lock me out."
[02:27] <Ginko> "Sure."
06[02:28] * Ginko trudges her way back over to the inn, feeling tired.
[02:29] <Ginko> "Hiroshi, Isamu says not to lock him out." She says as she passes him, heading up the stairs.
[02:30] <Hiroshi> "Okay."
06[02:31] * Hiroshi asks the girl for another tea.
01[02:31] <~KingGheedorah> 6Hitomi cheerily brings you another pot and another set of cups.
[02:31] <Jun> "First, you run off on your own, then you come back, LIE TO MY FACE, run off again, and then I see you you talking to that Kakita woman and showing her that sword of yours. I thought she was going to kill you! I probably haven't stressed this enough, but we need to stick together."
06[02:32] * Ginko heads to her room, opening the door without paying much attention to the noises inside.
06[02:32] * Isamu waves for another drink as he polishes off the round he ordered for Ginko and Hiroshi. "Tch..." Is all he utters as he drains the last of the sake bottle.
06[02:32] * Sanji rises
[02:32] <Hiroshi> "Ah, thank you.  Is it alright if I take this to my room, actually?"
01[02:33] <~KingGheedorah> "Oh, certainly!"
06[02:33] * Ginko blinks in surprise, seeing Jun and Sanji in the room. "Oh. Whoops. Sorry. Make sure you clean up when you're done."
06[02:34] * Ginko turns back, shutting the door and heading back down the hallway, shaking her head.
06[02:34] * Hiroshi picks up the pot and cups, then starts for the stairs. "Thank you." He then heads up towards his room.
[02:34] <Hiroshi> (Seeing Ginko and hearing the voices:) "What's going on?
[02:34] <Sanji> "First off, I never lied to you. Secondly, that was a bloodsword, I returned it so that it could be sealed and destroyed, Third, You have no right to be screaming at me like this"
[02:35] <Ginko> "Far as I can tell, Jun and Sanji are about to get intimate."
[02:35] <Ginko> "There was a lot of talk about showing swords and Jun sounded kinda jealous so I figured, well."
[02:35] <Sanji> "Now I don't know what has gotten you all worker up, but I will not be the outlet for your frustrations"
[02:35] <Ginko> "I just hope they clean up, or I'm stealing Sanji's room tonight."
06[02:35] * Sanji opens the door and walks out, slamming it behind him
[02:36] <Hiroshi> "That's... huh.  I thought it sounded more like an argument."
[02:36] <Jun> "FINE. GET OUT. SEE IF I CARE!"
[02:36] <Ginko> "Whoops.  Really was jealous."
06[02:36] * Sanji frowns and enters his own room, locking the door
[02:36] <Ginko> "Yeah, I'm not going in that room for a while.  Pity I'm not a drinker."
06[02:37] * Hiroshi sets down the tea in his room then peeks into the room currently occupied by Jun. "Mind if I step in for a moment?"
06[02:38] * Ginko heads back downstairs, taking a seat in the main room.
[02:38] <Jun> "And what do /you/ want?"
[02:39] <Hiroshi> "Well... I'm gonna put it out there, that was a rather, well, heated argument.  Want to talk about it?"
[02:40] <Hiroshi> "I mean, talking with people maybe hasn't worked out the best today.  But I think this is more something fitting for it."
06[02:42] * Jun is listening, but facing the opposite wall.
[02:43] <Hiroshi> "I mean, if you want to cool down or whatever, that's fine.  But if there's something that needs addressing, or it would help to talk about it, I'd rather do that before it spirals into something worse."
[02:46] <Jun> "A while. Several hours at least. And tell that strumpet if I catch her even near this room, I will make her pay dearly."
[02:46] <Hiroshi> "...Okay.  Just for clarification... who are you referring to?"
[02:48] <Hiroshi> "I mean, I think I can guess, but it's better to be clear in these things."
[02:48] <Jun> "Ginko."
[02:48] <Hiroshi> "Gotcha."
06[02:49] * Hiroshi moves the tea in front of the door to the room she's occupying.  "I'm leaving some tea here, in case you want it." He then heads down the stairs.
[02:50] <Ginko> "The prodigal son returns."
[02:52] <Hiroshi> "It's probably best to let her cool down for a while, just to let you know.  Also, I believe your judgement of what was occuring is a bit off."
[02:52] <Ginko> "I'm going to start tweaking out if I drink any more tea."
[02:52] <Ginko> "I wasn't planning on going back for a while anyways."
[02:53] <Hiroshi> "Fair enough.  I'm actually going back up to my room, just passing the message along."
[02:54] <Ginko> "Thanks."
06[02:56] * Hiroshi heads up to his room, closing the door behind him. He then sits down on the floor and begins meditating, reflecting on the day's events.
06[02:59] * Isamu picks his head up from the table in a blur. For a moment he tries to shake his addled mind awake but seems to be failing. "One... more." He offers, staring intently at the trio of sake bottles before him.
01[03:05] <~KingGheedorah> 6Whether it be drinking, fuming, meditating, or other pursuits, you all eventually find the call of sleep, and retire for the evening - for the first time in a week, not under the stars on the hard ground, but on a comfortable tatami mat in a temperate inn.
01[03:07] <~KingGheedorah> 6The next morning you awake and perform your morning rituals before meeting in the common room of the Emerald Dragon, a little more tense than usual. Hitomi is behind the bar, preparing you tea, when her father bursts in, looking alarmed.
01[03:08] <~KingGheedorah> "Kakita Ayami-sama has left in the middle of the night. The talk's all over town. I've never seen the Lions looking so smug."
06[03:09] * Sanji coughs
06[03:09] * Isamu groans from his face down position on the table. "Let them be smug... My head..."
06[03:09] * Sanji jumps up suddely
01[03:09] <~KingGheedorah> 6He glances down at you.1 "My apologies, samurai-san."
[03:10] <Ginko> "He'll be fine."
06[03:10] * Jun glares at Sanji.
[03:10] <Sanji> "I must go after her, The blade"
[03:10] <Hiroshi> "What?"
06[03:11] * Sanji glances around teh shop
[03:11] <Sanji> "I can't explain here, but I must go after her quickly"
[03:12] <Isamu> "Why are you so interested in her all of a sudden?" Isamu offers, turning his head to look up at Sanji.
06[03:13] * Sanji frowns in frustration but then gives up and sits at the table beckoning his companions close
06[03:13] * Hiroshi leans in to hear him out.
[03:14] <Sanji> "The blade, I turned it in yesterday. I'm afraid it may be influencing her somehow" he whispers
[03:14] <Hiroshi> "The one from the monastery?"
[03:15] <Sanji> "Yes, it turns out it was...more than we assumed"
[03:15] <Ginko> "...why did you give it to her?"
06[03:16] * Sanji growls in frustration
[03:16] <Isamu> "Sanji... That has got to be..." Isamu's voice trails off as he mumbles into the table.
[03:16] <Sanji> "I- I don't know, I thought... It does not matter now, what matters is that I fix this"
[03:17] <Hiroshi> "Hold on, you need to explain.  We're not going to understand otherwise."
06[03:18] * Sanji sighs
06[03:18] * Jun sighs. "Go then. I'll bring them up to speed and join you shortly."
06[03:18] * Sanji looks at Jun thankfully
[03:19] <Sanji> "Thank you"
[03:19] <Hiroshi> "Where are you even going?  We need to be able to find you."
06[03:19] * Sanji bows and rushes to gather his things
[03:20] <Sanji> "I will be wherever the blade is"
06[03:20] * Isamu looks up from the table at Sanji. He ties to muster a serious look. "How do you even expect to find this... blade?
[03:21] <Hiroshi> "Hold on, Shunsen had magic and skills to back up his cryptic sayings.  That really doesn't help us."
06[03:21] * Jun checks her nails, looking as disinterested as possible. "Probably to the castle. It's where he was with her and the sword yesterday."
03[03:21] * Retrieving #L5Rgame modes...
03[03:21] * KingGheedorah changes topic to 'Legend of the Five(ish) Ronin! | Episode 3: The Young Lions | Monday night 8pm EST | +28xp, +6 Glory |'
[03:21] <Hiroshi> "But that's not where she is now.  Isn't that the whole problem?"
[03:22] <Jun> "Best place to check if she just went missing."
[03:24] <Hiroshi> "Sanji just gave her that sword right?  What if she just went to take it back to Kakita territory?"
06[03:25] * Isamu finally raises his head from the table, albeit slowly. He sighs. "Well Sanji if this is what you've gotten yourself into. Not much we can say but to offer our help right?" He strains to offer a weak smile.
[03:25] <Jun> "She would have informed someone before leaving."
[03:26] <Hiroshi> "Why on earth would she have just up and left?  And why does Sanji seem to think it's his responsibility?"
[03:27] <Jun> "Because it is his fault and that sword he gave her may have something to do with it."
02[03:34] * Jun (chatzilla@sux-6C5F9F3F.hsd1.mi.comcast.net) Quit (Quit: ChatZilla 0.9.86.1 [Firefox 4.0/20110318052756])
02[03:34] * Ginko (pie@sux-5E52C193.phnx.qwest.net) Quit (Quit: )
02[03:39] * Sanji (chatzilla@sux-8F6A16DA.cwjamaica.com) Quit (Quit: ChatZilla 0.9.86.1 [Firefox 4.0/20110318052756])
02[03:42] * VE (ve4343@sux-26AC598C.res.cmu.edu) Quit (Quit: )
02[04:01] * Imako (K@sux-BC2D1F40.carolina.res.rr.com) Quit (Connection reset by peer)
03[04:08] * Imako (K@sux-BC2D1F40.carolina.res.rr.com) has joined #L5Rgame
Session Close: Tue Apr 19 12:42:26 2011