Glory of the Emerald Empire (Legend of the 5 Rings Quest)
- Thread starter Winged Knight
- Start date
- Fantasy
Winged Knight
Still just a crazy man with a wolf on his head
- Location
- Texas
We've passed over one hundred pages! Woo! Man, I was not expecting this Quest to make it this far considering the setting isn't well known on the forum, but the enthusiasm from everyone has continued to surprise me! Thank you all so much for participating in this Quest. I'm so glad you've been having fun, and it's been just so much of a treat to write.
Here's hoping for another hundred pages!
Here's hoping for another hundred pages!
GilliamYaeger
M'crazy.
[x] Enter the city.
Cannongerbil
I came here to nep at you
- Location
- Soviet Lunar Base
[x] Enter the city.
- Location
- Canada
[x] Enter the city.
Winged Knight
Still just a crazy man with a wolf on his head
- Location
- Texas
I cannot tell you all how pleased I am everyone is enjoying the NPCs. A Quest is made or broken by the characters involved, and if they're not interesting enough to interact with then that means there's been a failure somewhere. It is incredibly gratifying to me as a writer that you've all had fun dictating conversations with these people I've made up. I only hope these characters continue to entertain.
EtchedSteel
*mumble mumble*
- Location
- Lima. Peru
Sure it will, WK.
[x] Enter the city.
[x] Enter the city.
Ridiculously Average Guy
I'm you, but stronger
- Location
-
[x] Enter the city.
Joyful_Overkill
satisfaction in knowing your enemy won't survive.
[x] Enter the city.
Sirrocco
Pedantic
One of the weird things about it is the way that the social structure constrains things. Yasuki Goro, for example, is a truly fascinating character, but in the position we're in now, we shouldn't be bothering him further unless we have a concern or question, and the current situation is straightforward enough that we do not. We *could* discuss strategy with the man, but there are people potentially listening, and we already have our basic strategy laid out. Similarly, the Ashigaru are potentially interesting, but we're Samurai, and we've managed to become familiar with who they are to a degree, so we shouldn't be spending too much time talking with them.
This is, incidentally, one of the things that makes Shirou awesome, both as an NPC and as a character, as he really can just ignore those social barriers for the most part.
2.85
Winged Knight
Still just a crazy man with a wolf on his head
- Location
- Texas
[x] Enter the city.
It is mid afternoon by the time you reach the gates of Kyuden Ikoma. They are strong and sturdy, thick wood banded with solid steel. Though they are open now, you imagine that any trying to batter down those doors would find themselves sorely pressed. Nothing will be breaking down those barriers swiftly, save perhaps the wrath of the heavens itself.
The walls are even more impressive closer up than they had been when you observed them from afar. They stand tall and strong. It is a fine example of stonework. Nothing so great as the wonders the Kaiu can produce, of course. None can equal that Family where building is concerned. Even still, you find yourself nodding in appreciation.
Guards stand at the gate, of course. Four are holding position, two on either side of the entrance and wielding spears. A large gatehouse is set up behind the doors, no doubt holding even more guards. But it is not these armored men who draw your attention.
Instead, it is the robed woman in bright silks of white and gold who stands ready in the middle of the gate. She is very pretty, with flowing black hair done up in an elaborate style. She's older than you by at least a decade, but you'd hardly notice for all the effect it has had on her beauty. She holds a fan in one hand, though it is not open. Oddly, that fan seems larger than it should be.
"My greetings to you, noble diplomat of the Crab," she says, bowing deep toward Yasuki Goro. "I am Ikoma Kiyoshi, steward to my lord Ikoma Zhao-sama, and I welcome you to our city."
"My thanks for so kind a welcome," your superior responds, bowing back. "I am Yasuki Goro, on mission from my lord Hida Tanaka-sama. Might we have entrance within the walls of Kyuden Ikoma?"
"Of course," Kiyoshi says, rising. "We have heard of your travels here from the garrisons stationed throughout the countryside, and have been expecting your arrival for some time now."
"The Lion continue to impress with their diligence and dedication," Yasuki Goro says, straightening in his saddle. "Truly one can expect no less from those who are the Right Hand of the Emperor."
"Your words give us too much honor," Kiyoshi replies. "We merely do what is required of us by Bushido." She smiles, and you find yourself blushing a little despite that her gaze is not directed at you. "To do less would be to fail in our duties, and that cannot be tolerated."
"A sentiment I can respect whole heartedly!" Yasuki Goro says, grinning. "Though it shames me to request this, might we spend the night within the bounds of your castle? We will be on our way again soon enough, and should not impose too terribly."
"Alas," Kiyoshi said, shaking her head despondently. "My lord is away on business with our Champion, Akodo Masako-sama, at Shiro Akodo. As such he is not here to greet you properly into his home, and my Lord has always made it a point to welcome all guests into the castle personally."
"I see," Yasuki Goro says, shrugging. "Then there is nothing for it. I cannot, after all, ask that you presume upon your lord's desires on this matter."
"My thanks for your understanding on this matter, Yasuki-san," Kiyoshi says, bowing again. "If you would follow me, I can lead you to a fine inn located very close to the castle."
Your caravan follows her into the city proper. Inside you see busy streets full of people going about their business, both Samurai and peasant alike. The buildings are tall, painted white and topped with black shingles accented in bright yellow highlights. They almost look like gold, but do not give off the shimmer that lustrous metal is known for.
Like the walls, these structures as well appear to be made with strength in mind. Each building is made more of stone than of wood, and looks like it could withstand a great deal of punishment before collapsing. Even more apparent, however, are the narrow slits in each wall for archers to stand behind. Any army walking down these streets would find themselves riddled with arrows before even reaching the castle that loomed ahead.
The streets are flat and clean, and very straight as well. As you follow Ikoma Kiyoshi, you can see the city is laid out in a neat, angular design. This would make it easy for people to go about their business inside these walls, as well as make it simple for an army to mobilize and respond to an invasion.
Designed for ease of function, as well as war, you muse. I feel this is going to be a repeating theme amongst these people.
Eventually, your caravan finds itself at a large inn titled 'The Stalking Lion.' The building is three stories tall, and takes up a good deal of its side of the street. And, like Kiyoshi said, it is close to the castle itself. You can see it towering above you only eight blocks away, barely even a ten-minute walk from where you stand.
Kiyoshi turns and bows to your party as your caravan stop before the inn.
"I trust this will be suitable accommodation?" she asks.
"This should do nicely," Yasuki Goro says, bowing back. "My deepest thanks for graciously leading us."
"It is no trouble," Kiyoshi responds. She smiles as she straightens. "If this one might be so bold, would Yasuki-san and his companions care to dine with me tonight?" Her smile deepens. "While my Lord would wish to welcome you as guests himself, I'm sure he would not mind your taking a meal within the castle's walls."
"That sounds like it would be lovely," Yasuki Goro answers. "I would be happy to spend dinner with you, Ikoma Kiyoshi-sama, and I am sure my companions would as well."
"Then I look forward to it," Kiyoshi says. "Until then, I wish you a good day."
"I wish the same to you," your superior says back.
The servants and Ashigaru get to work stabling the horses and unloading the immediate luggage as Kiyoshi walks away toward the castle. Yasuki Goro, meanwhile, ventures straight into the inn. No doubt your superior wishes to rest before the meal tonight within Kyuden Ikoma proper.
You, however, are full of energy. It will be hours yet until sunset, plenty of time to do whatever you please before dinner. After over a week on the road, it would be good to explore a proper city again. All you have to do is make up your mind.
[] Put away your things and explore Kyuden Ikoma.
[] On second thought, perhaps it would be best to emulate your superior and rest up for the dinner.
[] Write in.
It is mid afternoon by the time you reach the gates of Kyuden Ikoma. They are strong and sturdy, thick wood banded with solid steel. Though they are open now, you imagine that any trying to batter down those doors would find themselves sorely pressed. Nothing will be breaking down those barriers swiftly, save perhaps the wrath of the heavens itself.
The walls are even more impressive closer up than they had been when you observed them from afar. They stand tall and strong. It is a fine example of stonework. Nothing so great as the wonders the Kaiu can produce, of course. None can equal that Family where building is concerned. Even still, you find yourself nodding in appreciation.
Guards stand at the gate, of course. Four are holding position, two on either side of the entrance and wielding spears. A large gatehouse is set up behind the doors, no doubt holding even more guards. But it is not these armored men who draw your attention.
Instead, it is the robed woman in bright silks of white and gold who stands ready in the middle of the gate. She is very pretty, with flowing black hair done up in an elaborate style. She's older than you by at least a decade, but you'd hardly notice for all the effect it has had on her beauty. She holds a fan in one hand, though it is not open. Oddly, that fan seems larger than it should be.
"My greetings to you, noble diplomat of the Crab," she says, bowing deep toward Yasuki Goro. "I am Ikoma Kiyoshi, steward to my lord Ikoma Zhao-sama, and I welcome you to our city."
"My thanks for so kind a welcome," your superior responds, bowing back. "I am Yasuki Goro, on mission from my lord Hida Tanaka-sama. Might we have entrance within the walls of Kyuden Ikoma?"
"Of course," Kiyoshi says, rising. "We have heard of your travels here from the garrisons stationed throughout the countryside, and have been expecting your arrival for some time now."
"The Lion continue to impress with their diligence and dedication," Yasuki Goro says, straightening in his saddle. "Truly one can expect no less from those who are the Right Hand of the Emperor."
"Your words give us too much honor," Kiyoshi replies. "We merely do what is required of us by Bushido." She smiles, and you find yourself blushing a little despite that her gaze is not directed at you. "To do less would be to fail in our duties, and that cannot be tolerated."
"A sentiment I can respect whole heartedly!" Yasuki Goro says, grinning. "Though it shames me to request this, might we spend the night within the bounds of your castle? We will be on our way again soon enough, and should not impose too terribly."
"Alas," Kiyoshi said, shaking her head despondently. "My lord is away on business with our Champion, Akodo Masako-sama, at Shiro Akodo. As such he is not here to greet you properly into his home, and my Lord has always made it a point to welcome all guests into the castle personally."
"I see," Yasuki Goro says, shrugging. "Then there is nothing for it. I cannot, after all, ask that you presume upon your lord's desires on this matter."
"My thanks for your understanding on this matter, Yasuki-san," Kiyoshi says, bowing again. "If you would follow me, I can lead you to a fine inn located very close to the castle."
Your caravan follows her into the city proper. Inside you see busy streets full of people going about their business, both Samurai and peasant alike. The buildings are tall, painted white and topped with black shingles accented in bright yellow highlights. They almost look like gold, but do not give off the shimmer that lustrous metal is known for.
Like the walls, these structures as well appear to be made with strength in mind. Each building is made more of stone than of wood, and looks like it could withstand a great deal of punishment before collapsing. Even more apparent, however, are the narrow slits in each wall for archers to stand behind. Any army walking down these streets would find themselves riddled with arrows before even reaching the castle that loomed ahead.
The streets are flat and clean, and very straight as well. As you follow Ikoma Kiyoshi, you can see the city is laid out in a neat, angular design. This would make it easy for people to go about their business inside these walls, as well as make it simple for an army to mobilize and respond to an invasion.
Designed for ease of function, as well as war, you muse. I feel this is going to be a repeating theme amongst these people.
Eventually, your caravan finds itself at a large inn titled 'The Stalking Lion.' The building is three stories tall, and takes up a good deal of its side of the street. And, like Kiyoshi said, it is close to the castle itself. You can see it towering above you only eight blocks away, barely even a ten-minute walk from where you stand.
Kiyoshi turns and bows to your party as your caravan stop before the inn.
"I trust this will be suitable accommodation?" she asks.
"This should do nicely," Yasuki Goro says, bowing back. "My deepest thanks for graciously leading us."
"It is no trouble," Kiyoshi responds. She smiles as she straightens. "If this one might be so bold, would Yasuki-san and his companions care to dine with me tonight?" Her smile deepens. "While my Lord would wish to welcome you as guests himself, I'm sure he would not mind your taking a meal within the castle's walls."
"That sounds like it would be lovely," Yasuki Goro answers. "I would be happy to spend dinner with you, Ikoma Kiyoshi-sama, and I am sure my companions would as well."
"Then I look forward to it," Kiyoshi says. "Until then, I wish you a good day."
"I wish the same to you," your superior says back.
The servants and Ashigaru get to work stabling the horses and unloading the immediate luggage as Kiyoshi walks away toward the castle. Yasuki Goro, meanwhile, ventures straight into the inn. No doubt your superior wishes to rest before the meal tonight within Kyuden Ikoma proper.
You, however, are full of energy. It will be hours yet until sunset, plenty of time to do whatever you please before dinner. After over a week on the road, it would be good to explore a proper city again. All you have to do is make up your mind.
[] Put away your things and explore Kyuden Ikoma.
[] On second thought, perhaps it would be best to emulate your superior and rest up for the dinner.
[] Write in.
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Cannongerbil
I came here to nep at you
- Location
- Soviet Lunar Base
[x] Put away your things and explore Kyuden Ikoma.
-[x] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
-[x] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
EtchedSteel
*mumble mumble*
- Location
- Lima. Peru
Okay, we have not much hours before dinner. That's a limitation.
[] Put away your things and explore Kyuden Ikoma.
-[] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
[] Put away your things and explore Kyuden Ikoma.
-[] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
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Orion Nexus
The Storm Soul
- Location
- South Carolina
[x] Put away your things and explore Kyuden Ikoma.
-[x] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
-[x] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
Dirtnap
Kanmusu Affecionado
The fact that her lord said no guests means no guests, its not insulting at all. On the flipside had she given us lodging then she would have been insulting us as well as her lord.
Joyful_Overkill
satisfaction in knowing your enemy won't survive.
[x] Put away your things and explore Kyuden Ikoma.
-[x] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
-[x] check if any of your companions would care to join you.
I think it was both insulting to us and something she had no choice but to do given her Lord's command.
The insult was from her lord though, not her, as he preemptively refused to offer hospitality. I would imagine that if he were to ever visit Crab lands, he would find that he would find that no one would be able to offer him hospitality in turn.
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Dirtnap
Kanmusu Affecionado
Nah man, strict code of who is in charge. If the Lord of the castle said no guests, then its not an insult to anyone involved. They are a daiymo, we (Yasuki Goro included) are just Samurai. There was no insult.